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of the real lizards, family Lacertidae
Arakelyan, M. & Spangenberg, V. & Petrosyan, V. & Ryskov, A. & Kolomiets, O. & Galoyan, E. (2022) -
Despite numerous works devoted to hybrid origin of parthenogenesis in reptiles, the causes of hybridization between different species, resulting in the origin of parthenogenetic forms, remain uncertain. Recent studies demonstrate that sexual species considered parental to parthenogenetic rock lizards (Darevskia spp.) avoid interspecific mating in the secondary overlap areas. A specific combination of environmental factors during last glaciation period was critical for ectotherms, which led to a change in their distribution and sex ratio. Biased population structure (e.g., male bias) and limited available distributional range favored the deviation of reproductive behavior when species switched to interspecific mates. To date, at least 7 diploid parthenogenetic species of rock lizards (Darevskia, Lacertidae) originated through interspecific hybridization in the past. The cytogenetic specifics of meiosis, in particular the weak checkpoints of prophase I, may have allowed the formation of hybrid karyotypes in rock lizards. Hybridization and polyploidization are 2 important evolutionary forces in the genus Darevskia. At present, throughout backcrossing between parthenogenetic and parental species, the triploid and tetraploid hybrid individuals appear annually, but no triploid species found among Darevskia spp. on current stage of evolution. The speciation by hybridi- zation with the long-term stage of diploid parthenogenetic species, non-distorted meiosis, together with the high ecological plasticity of Caucasian rock lizards provide us with a new model for considering the pathways and persistence of the evolution of parthenogenesis in vertebrates.
Jablonski, D. & Bemmel, S. van & Masroor, R. (2021) -
Abaladejo-Robles, G. & Rodriguez, N. & Rodriguez-Cobcepción, B. & Nogales, M. & Vences, M. (2022) -
The lacertid lizard Gallotia galloti inhabits drastically different environments on the island of Tenerife, from sea level to > 3500 m, encompassing mesic as well as extremely arid sites. To obtain a first exploratory overview of the thermophysiology of lizards in this range of environments, we experimentally inferred preferred temperature (Tpref) and instant evaporative water loss (IWL) in 63 individuals from five bioclimatically distinct sites. We found statistically significant but weak differences between individual median Tpref values across sites, without an obvious relationship to bioclimate. Considering only adult male lizards, the highest Tpref values were found at one mesic and one very arid site. IWL differences were also significantly different across sites, and this variable was positively correlated with rainfall if analysed at the level of individual lizards, a hypothesis that requires testing against more extensive data sets. It appears that G. galloti occupies an extensive range of bioclimates without heavily adjusting its thermal physiology to local conditions.
Ábalos Álvarez, J. (2021) -
Abalos Alvarez, J. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carazo Ferrandis, P. & Font, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2014) -
Ábalos, J. (2016) -
Signalling plays a key role regulating the intensity of animal contests. In this study, we evaluate the role of two (potential) chromatic signals in determining the outcome of male-male combats in Podarcis muralis lizards from a population showing polymorphic ventral coloration, with discrete white, yellow and orange morphs. As in other lacertids, males of this species display a row of ventrolateral ultraviolet (UV)- blue in their outer ventral scales (OVS) with a mean peak reflectance of 372.35nm. Previous studies have suggested that some chromatic variables of these patches may signal individual fighting ability and/or physical condition. In order to test this possibility, we staged combats between 60 adult lizards (20 individuals/morph), where each lizard confronted rivals from each morph in a tournament with a balanced design. Intruder/resident condition was controlled in order to avoid its strong effect in determining contest outcome. A general dominance/fighting ability ranking was calculated using the Bradley-Terry model, and used to explore the general relationship between morphs, chromatic measurements of the UV patches, and fighting ability. Unexpectedly, we did not find an effect of the UVblue patches on contest outcome, but we found a morph-specific bias in fighting ability: orange males lose more combats with other morphs than yellow and white males.
Abalos, J. & Lanuza, G.P. i de & Bartolomé, A. & Liehrmann, O. & Aubret, F. & Font, E. (2024) -
The interplay between morphological (structures) and behavioral (acts) signals in contest assessment is still poorly understood. During contests, males of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) display both morphological (i.e. static color patches) and behavioral (i.e. raised-body display, foot shakes) traits. We set out to evaluate the role of these putative signals in determining the outcome and intensity of contests by recording agonistic behavior in ten mesocosm enclosures. We find that contests are typically won by males with relatively more black coloration, which are also more aggressive. However, black coloration does not seem to play a role in rival assessment, and behavioral traits are stronger predictors of contest outcome and winner aggression than prior experience, morphology, and coloration. Contest intensity is mainly driven by resource- and self-assessment, with males probably using behavioral threat (raised-body displays) and de-escalation signals (foot shakes) to communicate their willingness to engage/persist in a fight. Our results agree with the view that agonistic signals used during contests are not associated with mutual evaluation of developmentally-fixed attributes, and instead animals monitor each other to ensure that their motivation is matched by their rival. We emphasize the importance of testing the effect of signals on receiver behavior and discuss that social recognition in territorial species may select receivers to neglect potential morphological signals conveying static information on sex, age, or intrinsic quality.
Abalos, J. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Bartolomé, A. & Aubret, F. & Uller, T. & Font, E. (2021) -
Color polymorphisms are widely studied to identify the mechanisms responsible for the origin and maintenance of phenotypic variability in nature. Two of the mechanisms of balancing selection currently thought to explain the long-term persistence of polymorphisms are the evolution of alternative phenotypic optima through correlational selection on suites of traits including color and heterosis. Both of these mechanisms can generate differences in offspring viability and fitness arising from different morph combinations. Here, we examined the effect of parental morph combination on fertilization success, embryonic viability, newborn quality, antipredator, and foraging behavior, as well as inter-annual survival by conducting controlled matings in a polymorphic lacertid Podarcis muralis, where color morphs are frequently assumed to reflect alternative phenotypic optima (e.g., alternative reproductive strategies). Juveniles were kept in outdoor tubs for a year in order to study inter-annual growth, survival, and morph inheritance. In agreement with a previous genome-wide association analysis, morph frequencies in the year-old juveniles matched the frequencies expected if orange and yellow expressions depended on recessive homozygosity at 2 separate loci. Our findings also agree with previous literature reporting higher reproductive output of heavy females and the higher overall viability of heavy newborn lizards, but we found no evidence for the existence of alternative breeding investment strategies in female morphs, or morph-combination effects on offspring viability and behavior. We conclude that inter-morph breeding remains entirely viable and genetic incompatibilities are of little significance for the maintenance of discrete color morphs in P. muralis from the Pyrenees.
Ábalos, J. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Bartolomé, A. & Liehrmann, O. & Laakkonen, H. & Aubret, F. & Uller, T. & Carazo, P. & Font, E. (2020) -
Explaining the evolutionary origin and maintenance of color polymorphisms is a major challenge in evolutionary biology. Such polymorphisms are commonly thought to reflect the existence of alternative behavioral or life-history strategies under negative frequency-dependent selection. The European common wall lizard Podarcis muralis exhibits a striking ventral color polymorphism that has been intensely studied and is often assumed to reflect alternative reproductive strategies, similar to the iconic “rock–paper–scissors” system described in the North American lizard Uta stansburiana. However, available studies so far have ignored central aspects in the behavioral ecology of this species that are crucial to assess the existence of alternative reproductive strategies. Here, we try to fill this gap by studying the social behavior, space use, and reproductive performance of lizards showing different color morphs, both in a free-ranging population from the eastern Pyrenees and in ten experimental mesocosm enclosures. In the natural population, we found no differences between morphs in site fidelity, space use, or male–female spatial overlap. Likewise, color morph was irrelevant to sociosexual behavior, space use, and reproductive success within experimental enclosures. Our results contradict the commonly held hypothesis that P. muralis morphs reflect alternative behavioral strategies, and suggest that we should instead turn our attention to alternative functional explanations.
Ábalos, J. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carazo, P. & Font, E. (2016) -
Colour signals play a key role in regulating the intensity and outcome of animal contests. Males of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) show conspicuous ventrolateral ultraviolet (UV)-blue and black patches. In addition, some populations express a striking ventral colour polymorphism (i.e., discrete orange, white and yellow morphs). In this study, we set out to evaluate the potential signalling function of these colour patches by staging pairwise combats between 60 size-matched adult lizards (20 per morph). Combats were held in a neutral arena, with each lizard facing rivals from the three morphs in a tournament with a balanced design. We then calculated a fighting ability ranking using the Bradley–Terry model, and used it to explore whether ventral colour morph, the size of UV-blue and black patches or the spectral characteristics of UV-blue patches (i.e., brightness, hue, chroma) are good predictors of fighting ability. We did not find an effect of the UV-blue patches on contest outcome, but the size of black patches emerged as a good predictor of fighting ability. We also found that winners were more aggressive when facing rivals with black patches of similar size, suggesting that black patches play a role in rival assessment and fighting rules. Finally, we found that orange males lost fights against heteromorphic males more often than yellow or white males. In light of these results, we discuss the potential signalling function of ventrolateral and ventral colour patches in mediating agonistic encounters in this species.
Ábalos, J. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Reguera, S. & Badiane, A. & Brejcha, J. & Font, E. (2017) -
Abbas, C. & Belkhir, M. & Bennacer, H. & Chelbi, S. & Djelloul, S. (2022) -
The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of pesticides on the Acanthodactylus scutellatus clan in the Al-Wadi region and in comparison with two different clans of the same rank, i.e. by comparing the Scincus scincus clan that comes from the “Al-Arish desert” and Water Duty area, and the Acanthodactylus scutellatus clan from the agricultural area located in “Umayya and Nasa” `. Our work is based on the determination of the protein and catalase activity of Ras in Acanthodactylus scutellatus samples. - In our work, we chose the Belford 1957 methodology, which depends on slaughtering samples in a correct manner, and then we preserved the samples according to the stipulated conditions and charters. - We crushed the following organs: the head, the liver, and the rest of the body. We get the test results: A very significant increase in “catalase” activity in the head was recorded in the farming samples of Acanthodactylus scutellatus, which recorded 352.8 ± 0.001 μM/mn/mg compared to the samples of “catalase” activity in the head of type Acanthodactylus scutellatus, which recorded 63.7 ±25.7 μM/ mn/mg
Abbate, F. & Guerrera, M.C. & Montalbano, G. & Zichichi, R. & Germanà, A. & Ciriaco, E. (2010) -
The Italian lizard (Podarcis sicula) is the most diffused reptile in Italy, but it is also present in other European countries. This lizard belongs to the Lacertidae family, lives near walls, slants and along the borders of the paths; its diet includes bugs and aracnids. No data are so far available in literature about the three-dimensional morphology of the tongue of Podarcis sicula, therefore the aim of the present paper was to study by scanning electron and light microscopy the three-dimensional characteristics of the dorsal lingual surface and moreover the presence of chemosensory receptors like the taste buds in the oral cavity. Our results demonstrate that the Podarcis sicula tongue is a triangular muscular membranous organ, dorsoventrally flattened and that three different areas can be observed: a bifid apex, a body and a root. No papillae were observed in the apex, characterized by a flattened mucosa and by two deep median pouches. In the body cylindrical papillae with a flat surface are present, aborally gradually substituted by imbricated papillae. Foliate-like papillae were observed in the lateral parts of the tongue body. No sensory structures were showed on the lingual dorsal surface, while they were numerous in the oral cavity, particularly on the gingival epithelium. The light microscopy shows, on the dorsal surface, a stratified pavimentous not keratinized epithelium, conversely keratinized along the ventral surface. Many caliciform cells on the lateral parts of the papillae, deputed to the secretion of mucus, were also observed. Therefore, the results obtained in this paper could give a contribution to the knowledge of the tongue anatomy in a species widely diffused in different European countries and could be of help for clinical purposes in reptiles.
Abd Meziem, N. (2005) -
Abd Rabou, A.F.N. & Yassin, M.M. & Al-Agha, M.R. & Hamad, D.M. & Ali, A.K.S. (2007) -
The reptiles and amphibians of the Gaza Strip and Wadi Gaza were surveyed during a period of two years (2002 – 2004). A total number of 21 herpetofaunistic species (2 turtles, 8 lizards, 8 snakes and 3 anurans) belonging to three orders and 15 families was encountered. The species described were all resident and were mostly found throughout the year. The diversity of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in the study area encouraged the occurrence of the species. However, the ever-increasing human impact on the existing natural resources in the Gaza Strip has threatened the ecology of wildlife, where the populations of frogs and many reptilian species are declining in an alarming fashion. The results reinforce the necessity of longterm inventories in order to understand the ecology and the dynamics of herpetofaunistic and other wildlife communities in the study area. Finally, the authors recommend improving cooperation of different parties to enhance the public awareness among the Palestinians and to implement environmental laws and legislation to conserve the sensitive and rare species of herpetofauna.
Abdala, V. & S. Moro (2003) -
The cranial musculature of species of ten families of lizards (Gekkonidae, Teiidae, Gymnophthalmidae, Anguidae, Scincidae, Lacertidae, Tropiduridae, Liolaemidae, Leiosauridae, and Polychrotidae) was analyzed. Using 93 myological cranial characters, a cladistic analysis was performed. To root the trees, data of Sphenodon were added to the matrix. The cladistic analysis yielded 129 equally parsimonious trees with a fit of 426.0 (39%) and 467 steps. In the consensus tree we observed only five nodes congruent with traditional phylogenetic hypothesis of the groups analyzed: teiids + gymnophthalmids (node 128); geckos (node 136); liolaemids (node 116); genus Liolaemus (node 115); and genus Phymaturus (node 92). Thus in these groups, phylogeny seems to be better predictor of muscle morphology than ecology or diet. They are many problematic groups whose monophyly requires further analysis (tropidurids, polychrotids, and scincids). In no case we were able to recognize differences that could be attributed to functional features.
Abdel-Baki, A.-A. & Al-Quraishy, S. (2012) -
This paper describes the morphological characteristics of a new species of Haemogregarina Danilewsky, 1885, from naturally infected Acanthodactylus boskianus (Daudin) in Egypt, based on both blood and tissue stages. The prevalence of infection was found to be 66% (33/50). The blood stages were found to be confined to the erythrocytes and could be differentiated into small and large forms. The small form (trophozoites) measures 8 × 3.5 μm, whereas the large form (mature gamonts) measures 12 × 5 μm. The tissue stages were observed only in the liver. Meronts occurred within parasitophorous vacuoles in hepatocytes and ranged from mononucleate forms to mature forms that contained c.10–15 merozoites.
Abdel-Baki, A.A. & Abdel-Haleem, H.M. & Al-Quaraischy, S. (2012) -
To date, three species of Isospora Schneider, 1881 have been described from lizards of the genus Acanthodactylus Wiegmann. Two of these, although representing separate species parasitizing two different hosts, Acanthodactylus boskianus Daudin in Egypt and A. schmidti Haas in Saudi Arabia, were described under the name Isospora acanthodactyli. The third species is Isospora abdallahi Modrý, Koudela et Slapeta, 1998 from A. boskianus in Egypt. In the present study, Isospora alyousifi nom. n. is proposed to accommodate Isospora acanthodactyli Alyousif et Al-Shawa, 1997 (homonym of I. acanthodactyli Sakran, Fayed, El-Toukhy et Abdel-Gawad, 1994) and its redescription based on newly collected material is provided.
Abdel-Haleem, H.M. & Al-Quraishy, S. & Abdel-Baki, A.A.S. (2013) -
Haemogregarina damiettae was previously described form Acanthodactylus boskianus in Egypt, and the description was base only on the blood stages with no data on the tissue stages. In the present study, both blood and tissue stages were encountered. The prevalence of infection was found to be 60 % (30/50). The blood stages were found to be confined to the erythrocytes and none in the leucocytes. The erythrocytic stages could be differentiated into small and large forms. The small form, trophozoite, measured 10 × 3 μm, while the large form, mature gamontocyte, measured 18 × 5 μm. The cytoplasm of the mature gamontocyte was finely granular and faintly stained with Giemsa, while the nucleus was relatively large and occupied about one third of the body length and was formed of a network of chromatin filaments. Infected erythrocytes were hypertrophied and their nuclei either longitudinally stretched or split into two fragments. The tissue stages were observed in the lungs and hearts of the infected lizards. The merogonic stages were evident as multinucleated ovoid to subspherical bodies enclosed by parasitophorous vacuoles. Mature meronts measured 16 × 12 μm and estimated to produce 15–25 merozoites.
Abdelhadi, D. (2018) -
Abdou, M. (2015) -
Chemical treatments still constitute the main method used to control desert locust during the invasion phases. In addition to their relatively high costs, these pesticides are not target specific in the majority of the cases; they can have negative effects on the biotic and abiotic components of the ecosystem. The goal of our study, conducted under natural conditions, was the assessment of the ecological effect of ethyl chlorpyrifos and fenitrothion, the most widely used organophosphate pesticides in desert locust control in Niger. To assess the impact of pesticides on the relative abundance of lacertid lizard Acanthodactylus boskianus and Acanthodactylus sp before and after treatments, we used the method of pedestrian transect. The analysis of the variance was used to carry out a statistical comparison based on BACI (Before-After-Control-Impact) method. The experiments were carried out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The experimental plots had an area of 16 ha each, the treatments consisted of ethyl chlorpyrifos at the rate of 225 ga.i./ha; fenitrothion at the rate of 450 ga.i./ha. Unsprayed plots were used as controls. These rates are those recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) to control desert locust. Chemical treatments were carried out in total cover using a battery driven hand-held spinning disk sprayer (Micro-Ulva®), in accordance with the technical directives of the FAO for ultra-low volume applications. The field trial was carried out in the valley of Tafidet located in the eastern side of Aïr Mountains in Niger, from June to December of the years 2004 to 2006. Ineach experimental plot, two lines of 300 m length and 10 m width were used as area of counting. These lines of counting skirted one of the diagonals of each plot. The results demonstrate the noxious effect of ethyl chlorpyrifos and fenitrothion (organophosphate pesticides) on lizard. We recorded the first decrease of population at 9 days after treatment. The first decrease of the lizard populations was noted in the phase I (1-12 DAT). We also recorded the first dead or moribund lizards between 9 and 21 days after chemical treatment. The number of death or moribund lizards ranged from 0, 33±0.57 to 4±1 in the plots treated with chlorpyrifos and fenitrothion respectively. The optimum of the efficacy of the pesticides was noted in phase II (15-30 DAT) it was decreased from 76% to 98% with chlorpyrifos and fenitrothion. It was also observed; the chemicals had a delayed effect on the lizard. In the last phase (45-60 days after the treatment) no death or moribund lizards is noted in all plots (treated and untreated).
Abel, E. (1951) -
1. Das Geruchsvermögen ist bei den Eidechsen (L. viridis, L. agilis, L. muralis) gut ausgebildet. Sämtliche Beute wird gerochen 2. Die Nase spielt eine bei weitem größere Rolle als das Jabobsonsche Organ. Dieses tritt, übereinstimmend mit den Befunden Kahmanns, nur akzessorisch in Funktion zum unmittelbaren Prüfen vor oder in dem Munde. 3. Der Beutegruch wird durch die Nase aus ca. 8 bis 10 cm Entfernung sichtbar wahrgenommen (durch die gesteigerte Brustatmung, die als „Pumpen“ bezeichnet wurde, erkenntlich) und löst Suchbewegungen aus. 4. Dieser allein ist bei Ausfall des optischen Sinnes befähigt, Zubeißen und Freßakt, selbst bei ungeeigneten Objekten, auszulösen. Es ist höchstwahrscheinlich, daß ein Geruchsscheme den Tieren angeboren ist. 5. Eidechsen lassen sich entgegen diesem angeborenen Geruchsscheme auf fremden Geruch positiv dressieren, wie Versuche mit stark süßlich duftenden Öl aufzeigten. Es gelang, andressierte Eidechsen nach Steinen usw., die mit Dressurduft markiert waren, beißen zu lassen, selbst als die Tiere im Besitz ihres optischen Sinnes waren. 6. Es hat den Anschein, als würden die Lacerten zirka eine Woche zur Bildung neuer Assoziationen benötigen, sobald sie täglich andressiert werden. Diese Zeitspanne wurde ungefähr bei den von mir durchgeführten Geruchs- und Geschmacksdressuren, sowie auch bei den Gehördresuren von Berger (1924) als Lernzeit benötigt. 7. Die Eidechsen konnten durch Vergällung einer bestimmten Beute mit Kochsalz dazu gebracht werden, bei gleichzeitiger Ausschaltung des optischen Sinnes diese Beute zu meiden, nahmen jedoch andere Nahrungsobjekte an. Durch Engerstellung der Verschiedenheit der Beutetiere konnte gezeigt werden, daß die Echsen in der Lage sind, selbst feinste Qualitätsunterschiede des Geruches zu registrieren. Sie vermochten Grillen von Locustiden, und weiters Locustiden untereinander geruchlich zu unterscheiden, auch wenn diese lebend und unvergällt angeboten wurden. 8. Auf dieses Vermögen dürfte die Bildung eines erworbenen Nahrungskreises zurückzuführen sein. Für sein Bestehen spricht die Bevorzugung von Lieblingsfutter, sowie die Ablehnung gewisser Beutetiere schon aus relativ großer Entfernung. 9. Freilandbeobachtungen zeigen, daß der Geruch bei Nahrungssuche, in unübersichtlichem Gelände von großer Bedeutung sein dürfte, analog zu den Feststellungen im Laborversuch. 10. Der arteigene Geruch ist bei Lacerta viridis wesentlich am endgültigen Festlegen im Verhalten gegenüber dem Artgenossen als Gegner oder Geschlechtspartner beteiligt. Ein Männchen dieser Art kämpft nicht gegen ein anderes, sobald dieser Reiz in der Reizsumme fehlt. Umgekehrt wird bei Anwesenheit des typischen Geruches gekämpft, auch wenn die optischen Merkzeichen stark verändert erscheinen; daraus wird die Bedeutung dieses Faktors im Reizsummenphänomen beim Paarungsverhalten ersichtlich. Der geschlechts-charakteristische Geruch stammt nicht aus den Schenkelporen, da eine operative Entfernung derselben keinerlei Änderung des Verhaltens bewirkte. 11. Die Nasenhöhle registriert Luftfeuchtigkeit und ermöglicht den Eidechsen das Wasser gerichtet aufzufinden. Die Nase darf daher als Alarm- und Leitsinnesorgan bezeichnet werden. Bei der Auffindung von Wasser kann der optische Sinn zusätzlich in Aktion treten, wobvei auf stark lichtbrechende Stellen angesprochen wird. 12. Bei Ausschaltung des Olfactorius sind die Tiere nicht imstande, Wasser zu finden, außer in optisch günstigen Fällen. 13. Freilandbeobachtungen zeigen, daß die Eidechsen durch Tau und Regenfall ihr Wasserbedürfnis gedeckt finden. Bei großer Trockenheit ziehen sich die Tiere zu einem Trockenschlaf zurück, den sie unterbrechen, sobald genügend Feuchtigkeit vorhanden ist. Die Luftfeuchtigkeit wird von den versteckt liegenden Tieren durch die Nase perzipiert und veranlaßt das Aufsuchen der Feuchtigkeitsquelle. Diese Annahme machen Freilandbeobachtungen auch in der natürlichen Umwelt höchst wahrscheinlich.
Abel, E. (1952) -
Abel, E. (1953) -
Abel, E. (1954) -
Abrahám, A. (1973) -
The differentiation of the thyroid primordium of lacertilian species is poorly understood. The present study reports on the ultrastructural analysis of the developing thyroid primordium in the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) during the early stages of differentiation. The early thyroid primordium of sand lizard embryos was composed of cellular cords that contained single cells with a giant lipid droplet, which were eliminated by specific autophagy (lipophagy). The follicular lumens at the periphery of the primordium differentiated even before the division of the cellular cords. When the single cells within the cords started to die through paraptosis, the adjacent cells started to polarise and junctional complexes began to form around them. After polarisation and clearing up after the formation of the lumens, the cellular cords divided into definitive follicles. The cellular cords in the central part of the primordium started to differentiate later than those at the periphery. The cellular cords divided into presumptive follicles first and only later differentiated into definitive follicles. During this process, a population of centrally located cells was removed through apoptosis to form the lumen. Although the follicular lumen in sand lizard embryos is differentiated by cavitation similar to that in the grass snake, there were very important differences during the early stages of the differentiation of the cellular cords and the formation of the thyroid follicles.
Abrahamyan, M.R. & Petrosyan, R.K. & Galoyan, E.A. & Danielyan, F.D. & Arakelyan, M.S. (2014) -
The patterns of seasonal and daily activities of two parthenogenetic species of lizards (Darevskia armeniaca, D. unisexualis) sharing the same territories in the zone of hybridization in central region of Armenia demonstrate ecologically similar potential niches.
Abrahmsen, B. (1988) -
Abramjan, A. (2008) -
Parthenogenesis in reptiles was fort he first time discovered in the Caucasian rock lizards of the genus Darevskia (family Lacertidae). There re recognized 7 all-female diploid species occupying rocky habitats of the Armenian Highland. All oft hem (as well as other parthenogenetoc reptiles) originated from hybridisation between bisexual species and display high levels of heterozygosity. The hybridisations most probably occurred after the last glaciations period. It was found out that maternal, respectivily paternal species are phylogenetically related and that most probably the origian of parthenogenesis is Phylogenetically constrained in these lizards. The role of sex chromosomes, determination of sex and other possible factors determining the origin of parthenogenesis are also discussed. The paerthenogenetic Darevskia and other unisexual reptiles have in common relatively young age and very little genetic variability. However, some hyperunstable microsatellite loci were also detected. The evolutionary perspective of parthenogens doesn´t seem tob e long-termed, but there have been observed also peculiarities concerning adaptability of these species. Some questions like the meiotic mechanisms, maintenance of high heterozygosity or effects of epigenetic factors on clonal species aren´t yet fully resolved.
Abramjan, A. (2011) -
Parthenogenetic lizards of the genus Darevskia as an evolutionary model. Several parthenogenetic lineages occur within the lizards of the genus Darevskia (Sauria: Lacertidae) which are endemic to southern Transcaucasus. High level of heterozygosity, cause by thein hybrid origin, is one of the crucial aspects of thein evolutionary potential, as well as the asexual reproduction. Heterosis on one side is in the opposition to the outbreeding depression and genetic uniformity of the clones on the other side. Aim of this work is to evaluace if these aspects influence viability of parthenogenetic species and differ them from the sexual ones. We chose the amount of asymmetries as a measure of developmental instability, which we studied on three meristic characters. We also evaluated the pattern of asymmetries in lateral blue spots, which are of signaling importace in lacertid lizards. Our results suggest that there isn`t significant difference between parthenogenetic and sexual species in developmental stability, but the sexual ones are more sensitive to population changes. Absence of males may have perhaps the greatest influence on coloration, resulting in loss of symmetry in the blue spots.
Abramjan, A. & Frýdlová, P. & Juncúchová-Lásková, J. & Suchomelová, P. & Landová, E. & Yavruyan, E. (2019) -
Parthenogenetic species are usually considered to be short‐lived due to the accumulation of adverse mutations, lack of genetic variability, and inability to adapt to changing environment. If so, one may expect that the phenotype of clonal organisms may reflect such genetic and/or environmental stress. To test this hypothesis, we compared the developmental stability of bisexual and parthenogenetic lizards of the genus Darevskia. We assessed asymmetries in three meristic traits: ventral, preanal, and supratemporal scales. Our results suggest that the amount of ventral and preanal asymmetries is significantly higher in clones compared with their maternal, but not paternal, progenitor species. However, it is questionable, whether this is a consequence of clonality, as it may be considered a mild form of outbreeding depression as well. Moreover, most ventral asymmetries were found in the bisexual species Darevskia valentini. We suggest that greater differences in asymmetry levels among bisexuals may be, for instance, a consequence of the population size: the smaller the population, the higher the inbreeding and the developmental instability. On the basis of the traits examined in this study, the parthenogens do not seem to be of significantly poorer quality.
Abreu Arvela, C. de (2020) -
The aimof this study was to determine the spatial use of the main biophysical elements present in the agro-silvo-pastoral system (trees and shrubs, fallen trunks and branches, rocky outcrops and pilesof stones/walls) by three lizard speciess: Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Podarcis virescensand Psammodromus algirus. However, A. erythruruswas not found in the ten plots studied. For the remaining two species, the hypothesis tests showed that there are differences in the number of individuals when comparing the fiveplots with grazing with the five plots without grazing,within the montado landscape. Where there are rocky outcrops, P. virescens predominates (especially in grazing areas), while Ps. algirusmainly occurs in areas without grazing. At the same time, there are also differences in the elements used as a perch and as a refuge between the two lizards. This type of work helps the creation of management plans by farmers and owners / decision makers, towardsan efficient conservation of reptiles.
Abreu-Acosta, N. & Foronda Rodriguez, P. & Valladares, B. & Casanova, J.C. (2006) -
Raillietiella morenoi sp. n., a new cephalobae- nid pentastomid found in the lungs of Gallotia atlantica collected in the Canary Islands, is described. The new species belongs to the sharp-tipped posterior-hook type. The annulus number, morphology, and dimensions of copulatory spicules and the dimensions of anterior and posterior hooks separate Raillietiella sp. n. from the other raillietiedid sharp-tipped posterior-hook species of small lizard parasites in Africa. The host character of endemic protected species of G. atlantica in Alegranza Island posed great difficulty in obtaining more parasite materials. However, more studies are required to state the variability of this species and its possible distribution in other species in the Canary Islands, as well as in other Gallotia spp.
Abreu, J.G.T. (2022) -
Alto de São Bento is a granite hill near the city of Évora, with floristic, geological and landscape interest, having been declared a núcleo museológico (NMASB). In this study, the local herpetofaunistic diversity was evaluated, the results of which demonstrated the presence of 12 species of amphibians and 11 species of reptiles in the area. Salamandra salamandra and natterjack toad Epidalea calamita predominate in the sampled amphibians; the most common reptiles are the Psammodromus algirus and the gecko Tarentola mauritanica. Such a contribution of diversity seems regionally important, however the NMASB model does not seem efficient in ist conservation, so a redesign into an ecomuseum is suggested.
Abreu, J.M. & Salvi, D. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. (2019) -
Identification of extremely high levels of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence divergence within reptiles from North Africa is commonplace. This high divergence often compares with interspecific levels among widely accepted species, leading to the hypothesis of the occurrence of species complexes. Indeed, in many examples, data from nuclear markers support such taxonomic recognition. Such is the case of two recently recognized ocellated lizard species of the genus Timon, T. nevadensis, from Spain, and T. kurdistanicus, from the Middle East, which both showed notable genetic differentiation from their sister taxa. In North Africa, highly divergent mtDNA lineages of Timon tangitanus were previously identified but not corroborated with nuclear markers. Here we expand geographic sampling across the range of Timon tangitanus and complement mtDNA sequences with data from nuclear markers (MC1R and ACM4). We identify four divergent mtDNA lineages, at a level similar to some reptile species. However, the nuclear markers show limited differentiation and lack of lineage sorting. This and some other recent assessments within reptiles discourage the use of mtDNA data alone as a proxy for taxonomic units, demonstrating once more the need for integrative taxonomic approaches.
Abu Alsaud, L. (2019) -
Tall Sufan, a 1.5-hectare hill in an area with a number of archaeological sites, is located 1.5 km west of the city of Nablus. This site contains remains from Bronze (3600–1200 BC) and Iron Age II (918–539 BC), Roman (63 BC–324 AD), Byzantine (325–638 AD/16H) and Islamic periods (638/16 Hijra–1918). From the Ottoman-Turkish period until modern times it was in agricultural use. However, in recent decades, human activities have destroyed sections of Tall Sufan. The surviving features include a fortification system, a pond, an aqueduct, a watermill and several dry-stone terrace walls, cylindrical weigh oil press, silos, and burial caves. This article describes these structural elements and compares them to similar sites in Palestine. In addition, it provides information on coins recovered during the 2016–2017 campaigns.
Abu Baker, M. & Qarqaz, M. & Rifai, L. & Hamidan, N. & Al Omari, K. & Modry, D. & Amr, Z. (2004) -
In the course of the faunistic inventory in Wadi Ramm Protected Area, a total of 34 species of reptiles representing nine families (Gekkonidae, Chamaeleonidae, Agamidae, Lacertidae, Scincidae, Varanidae, Leptotyphlopidae, Colubridae, and Viperidae) were recorded from different habitats in Wadi Ramm and its closest vicinity. Three species (Lacerta cf. kulzeri, Chamaeleo chamaeleon, and Ablepharus rueppellii) are considered to represent relicts from earlier, more humid periods. Habitat preferences for collected species are included.
Abu Baker, M.A. & Katbeh-Bader, A.A. & Ghlelat, A.A. & Disi, A.M. & Amr, Z.S. (2021) -
We studied diet and food niche relationships among sympatric lizards in two areas in Jordan using stomach contents. We found that 77 stomachs from six species in the eastern deserts and 45 stomachs from three species in the western highlands resulted in 2,478 and 1,935 prey items, respectively. Stomachs from the eastern desert contained 1–216 prey items with an average of 31.5 items (median = 16) and 1–329 prey items with an average of 43.0 (median = 13) from the western highlands. The lizards were primarily insectivorous, with ants and beetles making up the highest percentages. Additionally, we identified a snake (Eirenis rothii), a freshwater fish, and four smaller lizards in the prey remains. The results showed similar niche breadths and high food-niche overlap values, especially among the agamid lizards, suggesting that some opportunistic feeding habits are likely influenced by prey availability and similar foraging strategies. Based on similar niche breadths and high food niche overlap values, we believe that interspecific competition is an important factor in organizing these lizard assemblages. Therefore, habitat segregation and different hunting strategies may likely occur among these species and allow for species coexistence in these areas.
Abukashawa, S.M.M. & Mahmoud, M.M. (2015) -
The Small Spotted-Lizard Mesalina guttulata is recorded for the first time from Um Elsheikh island at Dongonab Bay in the Red Sea State, Sudan
Ackermann, G. (2012) -
Report about an observation of juvenile Podarcis muralis as potential prey of Euscorpius sp.
Acosta, P.F. & Molina-Borja, M. (2016) -
Se describe un comportamiento previamente no observado en el lagarto de Boettger (Gallotia caesaris). Varios ejemplares de la subespecie G. caesaris caesaris se subieron al dorso de un águila pescadora (Pandion haliaetus) y comieron allí moscas parásitas (Diptera, Hippoboscidae) que estaban sobre las plumas; el águila pescadora se hallaba en un nido situado en la costa del mar de las Calmas en la isla de El Hierro. Este comportamiento es otro caso de mutualismo (simbiosis de limpieza) ya que puede contribuir a mejorar la salud de las águilas pescadoras y, por otra parte, es un suplemento alimenticio para los lagartos.
Adamopoulou, C. (1999) -
Adamopoulou, C. (2015) -
Adamopoulou, C. & Legakis, A. (2002) -
This study reports on the seasonal, sex, and age differences in the diet composition of a population of the lacertid lizard Podarcis milensis inhabiting an arid sand dune on Milos Island (Aegean Archipelago, Greece). Stomach contents of 191 animals were analyzed and compared with prey availability data. The most important prey types were Hemiptera, Coleoptera (other than Tenebrionidae), spiders, and ants. Other prey items included plant material and insect larvae, both constantly consumed throughout the year. Differences in the taxonomic composition of the diet were found between males and females and between juveniles and all other classes. The greatest similarity of diet composition between the sexes and ages examined was during summer. The foraging patterns observed are discussed within the context of the specific study system: an insular, low productivity, sand dune ecosystem.
Adamopoulou, C. & Linardaki, E. & Thanou, E. (2025) -
The Erhard’s wall lizard Podarcis erhardii (Bedriaga, 1886) was first recorded on the tiny rocky islet of Spanopoula, near Kea (Aegean Archipelago, Greece), in 1980. Since then, there has been no other published reference to confirm the species’ presence or to estimate its population status. Here, we report on a herpetological survey we carried out on Spanopoula 44 years later, which add ed a third species (Mediodactylus kotschyi) to the islet’s herpetofauna list. During our visit, we collected body-size measurements and tissue samples for the molecular identification of the Podarcis lizards inhabiting the islet. We found a thriving population of medium-sized wall lizards, belonging to the mainland form, P. erhardii livadiacus (Werner, 1902). As this subspecies is not present in adjacent Kea and nearby islands, our finding supports a human-mediated dispersal scenario.
Adamopoulou, C. & Pafilis, P. (2019) -
Invasive species have been recognised as an important hazard to native communities. Amongst the mitigation measures that have been proposed to confront biological invasions, eradication projects are certainly the most drastic. In this short communication, a successful eradication project against a recently established population of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) in Athens, Greece, is reported. To this aim, the Hellenic Herpetological Society received unforeseen aid from stray cats and, possibly, from the Οcellated skink (Chalcides ocellatus) and vegetation growth. Within three years, the initial thriving P. siculus population has shrunk to very few individuals.
Adamopoulou, C. & Valakos, E.D. (1998) -
Adamopoulou, C. & Valakos, E.D. (2000) -
The reproductive strategy of Podarcis milensis exhibits some peculiarities when compared with other congeners. Males and females attain sexual maturity at a min- imum body size of 47 and 42 mm SVL, respectively, both at an age of about one year. Podarcis milensis has a ver y small clutch size, with a mean of 1.73 and a range of 1–3 eggs, and produces multiple clutches annually. Both sexes exhibit a pro- longed reproductive period extending from Januar y to August.
Adamopoulou, C. & Valakos, E.D. (2005) -
Field body temperatures (Tbs), activity cycles, and preferred body temperatures maintained in a laboratory thermogradient (Tsel) were studied for Podarcis milensis, a small, endemic, lacertid lizard occurring in Milos Archipelago, Greece. P. milensis is active all year round; overall maximum activity level is recorded in spring, and minimum activity in winter. Daily activity patterns range from unimodal (winter) to strongly bimodal (summer). Body temperature of adults of the examined population (n = 188) averages 31.3 °C (range 21.5-38.4 °C, SD 3.27 °C); mean monthly Tbs are grouped together into `seasons`. The species actively thermoregulates, and effectiveness of thermoregulation for the month of August is high, 0.95. The thermoregulatory behavior, microhabitat utilization, and activity cycle of this population are all discussed in the specific context of our study system: the harsh thermal environment of an insular sand dune.
Adamopoulou, C. & Valakos, E.D. & Legakis, A. (1997) -
Adamopoulou, C. & Valakos, E.D. & Pafilis, P. (1999) -
Die vorliegende Studie behandelt die Nahrungszusammensetzung dreier nichtsympatrischer Eidechsenarten von den Ägäischen Inseln, Griechenland. Der Mageninhalt von 157 Exemplaren von Podarcis milensis (62), Podarcis gaigeae (50) und Podarcis erhardii (45) wurde auf Beuterückstände untersucht. Alle Tiere kamen aus Museumssammlungen und waren im Sommer gefunden worden. In dieser Jahreszeit nehmen Podarcis milensis und Podarcis gaigeae ähnliche Nahrung auf, hauptsächlich Ameisen, Coleoptera und Insektenlarven, während Podarcis erhardii Coleoptera und Orthoptera erbeutet. Die Ergebnisse werden im Zusammenhang mit der verfügbaren Beute diskutiert.
Adamopoulou, C. & Zotos, S. & Legakis, A. (2004) -
The spatial organization of a population of the endemic lacertid Podarcis milensis was studied from May to October in a sandy, back-dune ecosystem on Milos island (Aegean Archipelago, Greece). Male/female home range ratio was l.67.Each male overlapped with up to 6 females, while each female with up to 5 female neighbours closely spaced. Female home ranges were overiapped extensively by male home ranges, up to 100% of their range. Both males and females maintained high fidelity to the same home ranges from season to season. Our data indicate male territorial behavior in this population. Behavioural observations in the field support the above. Males defended territories from intruders even during October. Results are discussed within the context of the specific study system
Adams, A.L. (1870) -
Adema, J.P.H.M. & Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1980) -
Algyroides moreoticus, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta graeca, Lacerta oxycephala, Lacerta trilineata, Lacerta viridis, Podarcis melisellensis fiumana, Podarcis muralis albanica, Podarcis peloponnesiaca, Podarcis sicula campestris, Podarcis taurica ionica, Podarcis taurica taurica.
Adil, S. & Altaf, M. & Hussain, T. & Umair. M. & Ni, J. & Abbasi, A.M. & Bussmann, R.W. & Ashraf, S. (2022) -
Amphibians and reptiles have interacted with humans for millennia. However, humans interact with amphibian and reptile species in different manners, which depend on their culture and traditions. This study was designed to better understand the interactions between amphibian and reptile species and their usage among the native peoples in the vicinity of the Jhelum and Chenab rivers, Pakistan. Information was collected through semi-structured interviews and questionnaires, and was analyzed by using different indices, including the frequency of citation, corrected fidelity level, fidelity level, relative importance level, and informant major ailment. Two amphibians and twenty-six reptile species were used in therapeutic medicine in the study area. Based on the cultural analysis, we found that Naja naja (black cobra) was highly cited across all cultural groups. A 100% Fidelity Level was calculated for the following species: Naja naja (eye infection), Varanus bengalensis (joint pain), Eurylepis taeniolatus (cataract), and Acanthodactylus cantoris (cancer). We found five endangered species in the study area, i.e., Aspideretes gangeticus, A. hurum, Chitra indica, Varanus flavescens, and Geoclemys hamiltonii, that were used to cure joint pain, muscle stretching and pain, backbone pain, paralysis, and psoriasis, respectively. Likewise, Lissemys punctata andersoni, a vulnerable species as labelled by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, was extensively used for the treatment of joint pain, body pain, paralysis, and arthritis in the study area. In terms of conservation, it is critical to protect the highly vulnerable and endangered species that are being used in therapeutic medicines. Our findings may be helpful for the conservation of amphibian and reptile species by helping to make an effective plan to prevent their extinction. The main threats to the diversity of amphibian and reptile species in the area are hunting, trading, and cultural use. These threats could potentially lead to the extinction of these species. Therefore, with the involvement of concerned authorities, e.g., local stakeholders, the Ministry of Climate Change, provincial wildlife departments, academia, and conservation managers, immediate conservation measures should be taken for the protection and sustainable utilization of medicinal species.
Adnagulov, E.V. (2017) -
An annotated list of amphibian and reptile species of the Russian Far East is presented with due account of modern data on the taxa systematics. 13 Amphibian species and 27 reptile ones have been reliably registered by now, including several random sea species.
Аднагулов Э.В. (2017) -
Приводится аннотированный список видов земноводных и пресмыкающихся Дальнего Востока России с учётом современных данных по систематике таксонов. К настоящему времени достоверно зарегистрировано 13 видов амфибий и 27 видов рептилий, включая случайно заплывающих морских видов.
Adnagulov, E.V. & Oleinikov, A.Yu. (2006) -
The paper reports on the distribution and ecology of amphibians and reptiles in the south of the Russian Far East, including previously unstudied areas within Khabarovsk Kray, Primorskiy Kray, and Yevreyskaya Autonomous Oblast’ (209 localities in total) studied in 1998 – 2004.
Adolph, R. (1922) -
Aellen, V. (1952) -
Aellen, V. & Perret, J.L. (1953) -
Aengals, R. & Sathish Kumar, V.M. & Jafer Palot, M. (2012) -
Afonso, O. & Mateo, J.A. (2003) -
Afonso, O. & Mateo, J.A. (2005) -
Afonso, O. & Mateo, J.A. (2009) -
Afonso, O.M. & Del Carmen Alfayate, M. & Mora, R. (2006) -
The critical state of the Gallotia bravoana species demands the use of hardware that helps its conservation. The analysis of its diet provides valuable information that can be used for this purpose, It is already improving the breeding program in captivity, fine-tuning the process of selection of future areas for releasing populations or helping in the search for new populations in other points of the island and allowing for an approach to the process of growth in freedom and, in short, its demography. The study of the diet of this species has been carried out through a micro-histological analysis of fecal samples. To achieve satisfactory identification a reference collection of epidermal tissues of stems, sheets, flowers (pollen) and fruits (seeds) has been used. The results clarify that it is a herbivorous animal in which very few species have significant importance. They also consume animal prey, and display a trophic plasticity that is justified by the scarcity of resources.
Afonso, T.I.Z.T. (2015) -
O montado, sistema agro-silvo-pastoril de extrema importância para várias espécies de répteis, foi moldado pela ação humana desde tempos ancestrais e a manutenção das suas características seminaturais depende diretamente da continuação da gestão tradicional. A presente investigação teve como principal objetivo a determinação do impacto da gestão do montado, principalmente do pastoreio, no uso do habitat pelas lagartixas Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus occidentalis e Podarcis virescens. Os resultados atingidos, por meio da realização de testes de hipóteses, apontam para a ausência de impacto dos vários níveis de intensidade de pastoreio no número de indivíduos encontrado em cada cerca, embora, aparentemente, haja uma alteração do comportamento e uso do micro-habitat pelas lagartixas quando expostas às diferentes intensidades. Estas lagartixas mostraram selecionar micro-habitats com uma estrutura simples, sendo que as diferenças entre as espécies se encontram no uso que estas fazem dos elementos que o constituem; Abstract: Habitat Use by Lizards in Agrosilvopastoral Systems of Montado The montado is an extremely important agrosilvopastoral system to several species of reptiles. It has been moulded by the human activity since the primordial times and its characteristics rely directly on the continuity of the traditional ways of management. The present research`s objective has been the measure of the impact inflicted by the management applied on the montado upon the use of the habitat by the species of lizards Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus occidentalis and Podarcis virescens. The results suggests that there is no impact on the population of the species studied due to the intensity of the grazing, although there has been noticed a change in the behaviour and usage of the micro-habitat by them, when exposed to the different intensity levels. The lizards seem to prefer simple structured micro-habitats being the main difference between the species in the usage that they give to its physical elements.
Afrasiab, S.R. & Al-Moussawi, A.A. & Hadi, H.D. (2018) -
Basrah province is situated at the extreme south of Iraq, it has an interesting reptile fauna (Squamata and Serpentes) and represents a land bridge between three different zoogeographical regions ( Oriental, Palaearctic and Ethiopian). This situation gave Basrah province a topographic specific opportunity for raising its own faunal diversity including reptiles; in this study Basrah province was divided into four main zones: the cities and orchards, marshes and wetlands (sabkha), the true dessert, the seashore and Shat Al-Arab. Forty nine reptile species were recorded including snakes, sea and fresh water turtles, and Lizards; brief notes and descriptions for the rare and important species were provided and supported by Plates.
Afrasiab, S.R. & Ali, H.A. (1989) -
This study includes a list of reptiles collected from Rumaila desert, south of Iraq, with a redescription of snake Eryx jayakary were given.
Afrasiab, S.R. & Mohamad, S.I. & Hossain, R.H. (2013) -
The present study is a review of the 1976 publication by professor A.D. NIAZI, director of the Natural History Museum of Bagdad, on the Lacertini of Iraq, including additional materials from Irqi collections. Twenty-two individuals of five taxa of this group originating from the territory under study were indentified in Iraqi collections: Lacerta cf. strigata EICHWALD, 1831 which had been removed from the list of Iraqi lacertids by many authors, L. media media LANTZ & CYRÉN, 1920, Timon kurdistanicus (SUCHOW, 1936) and two subspecies of Apathya cappadocica (WERNER, 1902). A key for identification and a map of the records are also presented.
Afsar, M. & Ayaz, D. & Afsar, B. & Cicek, K. & Tok, C.V. (2012) -
In this study, 15 amphibian and reptile species were recorded from 12 different localities in the Camili Biosphere Reserve, known as the first biosphere site of Turkey. Two of these species are urodelan, four are anuran, four are Lacertilia and five are Ophidia. Two black coloured Natrix specimens collected from biosphere rezerve area are compered with literature data belongs to N. megalocephala. Moreover, the population and habitat status of threatened species were investigated, required conservation measures were explained.
Afsar, M. & Sahin, M.K. & Afsar, B. & Cicek, K. & Tok, C.V. (2018) -
Interactions between the environment and internal regulation drive the biophysiological dynamics of lizards. Although diurnal lizards are usually heliothermic, they can sometimes be active in the absence of sunlight. Here, we report, for the first time, a case of nocturnal behavior (aided by the artificial light) in the spiny-tailed lizard - Darevskia rudis (Bedriaga, 1886) – a species that normally exhibits diurnal activity.
Afsar, M. & Tok, C.V. (2011) -
In this study, 29 reptile and amphibian species were recorded in 25 diff erent localities in the Sultan Mountains. Of these, 5 were anurans, 1 was a tortoise, 1 was a turtle, 11 were lizards, and 11 were snakes. A chorotype classifi cation of the species recorded in the Sultan Mountains is also given.
AG Feldherpetologie und Artenschutz (2013) -
Agapito, A.B. (2021) -
In a translocation experiment in 1971, five pairs of Italian wall lizards (Podarcis siculus) were transferred from the islet of Pod Kopište to the islet of Pod Mrčaru. 36 years later, it was found that the native species of Dalmatian wall lizard Podarcis melisellensis on the islet of Pod Mrčaru was completely replaced through competition of the introduced P. siculus. Studies of the original and newly formed populations of P. siculus on the islets Pod Kopište and Pod Mrčaru revealed morphological, physiological and behavioral differences between the two populations. Previous studies of parental generation have shown higher aggressivity of adults from the islet Pod Kopište. The aim of this thesis was to determine whether there are differences in exploratory behavior, activity and neophobia between juvenile individuals of the F1 generation. Juvenile individuals are divided into four groups according to the origin of their parents. All individuals participated in three open field tests: habituation test, activity test and neophobia test towards a novel object. The habituation test examines the exploratory behavior of an individual in an unfamiliar environment. The activity test monitors the activity of individuals in a known environment. The neophobia test measured fear values towards a novel, unknown object. According to the obtained results, pure lines of juvenile individuals do not differ from each other in behavior. Hybrids are less prone to exploratory behavior and more neophobic.
Agarwal, I. & Khandekar, A. & Ramakrishnan, U. & Vyas, R. & Giri, V.B. (2018) -
We describe two new species of the lacertid genus Ophisops based on a series of 19 specimens from semi-arid habitats in the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan in northwestern India, provide a description of Ophisops microlepis sensu stricto, and a key to Indian Ophisops. Ophisops pushkarensis sp. nov. and Ophisops kutchensis sp. nov. are allied to Ophisops microlepis and can be diagnosed from all other Indian Ophisops by the fusion of the lower and upper eyelids, their large body size (snout to vent length > 50 mm), and ≥ 50 scales around midbody. They differ from O. microlepis and each other in the number of scales around midbody, the number of dorsal scales, subtle colour pattern differences, as well as uncorrected mitochondrial sequence divergence (6–9%). These are some of the only known endemic reptiles in these semi-arid landscapes and indicate that many other such habitats may harbour endemic biodiversity.
Agarwal, I. & Ramakrishnan, U. (2017) -
Aim India is dominated by tropical grassy biomes (TGBs), traditionally considered seres or degraded forest, with low diversity relative to the restricted, ancestral wet zone. It is unclear if Indian grasslands and other open habitats are anthropogenically derived or native, old-growth habitats; without a clear timescale of grassland evolution. One way to understand grassland evolution is to study the diversification in taxa restricted to open habitats. We use a dated phylogeny of Ophisops to address questions related to the origin, diversification and inter-relationships of Indian and Saharo-Arabian Ophisops, and ultimately the origin of Indian grasslands and open habitats. Location The Indian subcontinent; the Saharo-Arabian Realm. Methods We generated up to 2736 base pairs of aligned sequence data (one mitochondrial, two nuclear genes) for Indian lacertids and reconstructed phylogenetic relationships using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference. We use a fossil-calibrated timetree, diversification analyses and ancestral area reconstructions to test the hypotheses of origin and relationships with Saharo-Arabian Ophisops. Results Ophisops is strongly supported as monophyletic, with a basal split into a large-bodied (LBC) and small-bodied clade (SBC). The Saharo-Arabian species are nested within the Indian species in the LBC. Species diversity in Indian Ophisops is grossly underestimated, with 26–47 candidate species. Ophisops began diversifying in the late Oligocene with significant rate shifts in the late Miocene-Pliocene and Pleistocene within the SBC. Main conclusions Our results are consistent with an ancient origin of grassland taxa and TGBs in India. Ophisops is a dramatic example of overlooked cryptic diversity outside forests, with ~30 species where five were known. Ophisops dispersed into India from the Saharo-Arabian Realm in the Oligocene with a back dispersal in the Middle Miocene, a novel biogeographical pattern. Diversification in the SBC of Ophisops increased 8-fold during the global C4 grassland expansion. Indian TGBs are old-growth ecosystems that need urgent conservation attention.
Agasyan, A. & Ananjeva, N. (2009) -
Agasyan, A. & Avci, A. & Tuniyev, B. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Lymberakis, P. & Andrén, C. & Cogalniceau, D. & Wilkinson, J. & Ananjeva, N. & Üzüm, N. & Orlov, N. & Podloucky, R. & Tuniyev, S. & Kaya, U. & Böhme, W. & Nettmann, H.K. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Jogerf, U. & Cheylan, M. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Borczyk, B. & Sterijovsky, B. & Westerström, A. & Schmidt, B. (2010) -
Agasyan, A. & Avci, A. & Tuniyev, B. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Lymberakis, P. & Andrén, C. & Cognbalniceanu, D. & Wilkinson, J. & Ananjeva, N. & Üzüm, N. & Orlov, N. & Podloucky, R. & Tuniyev, S. & (2009) -
Agasyan, A. & Avci, A. & Tuniyev, B. & Lymberakis, P. & Andren, C. & Cogalniceanu, D. & Wilkinson, J. & Ananjeva, N. & Uzum, N. & Orlov, N. & Podloucky, R. & Tuniyev, S. & Kaya, U. & Crnobrnja-Isailov (2010) -
Agasyan, A. & Tuniyev, B. & Ananjeva, N. & Orlow, N. (2009) -
Agasyan, A. & Tuniyev, B. & Cogalniceanu, D. & Wilkinson, J. & Ananjeva, N. & Orlov, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Crochet, P.A. & Disi, A.M.M. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. & Sadek, R. & Werner, Y. & Tok, V. & Ugurtas, I. & Sevinc, M. (2009) -
Agnese, M, & Rosati, L. & Prisco, M. & Coraggio, F. & Valiante, F. & Scudiero, R. & Laforgia, V. & Andreuccetti, P. (2014) -
Starting from the knowledge that in the reproductive period the Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is widely distributed in Podarcis sicula testis, we studied VIP expression and the localization of the neuropeptide and its receptors in the testis of the Italian wall lizard P. sicula in the other phases of its reproductive cycle (summer stasis, autumnal resumption, winter stasis, spring resumption). By Real Time-PCR, we demonstrated that testicular VIP mRNA levels change during the reproductive cycle, showing a cyclic trend with two peaks, one in mid-autumnal resumption and the other in the reproductive period. By in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, we demonstrated that both VIP mRNA and protein were widely distributed in the testis in almost all the phases of the cycle, except in the early autumnal resumption. As regards the receptors, the VPAC1R was localized mainly in Leydig cells, while the VPAC2R showed the same distribution of VIP. Our results demonstrate that, differently from mammals, where VIP is present only in nerve fibres innerving the testis, an endotesticular synthesis takes place in the lizard and the VIP synthesis changes throughout the reproductive cycle. Moreover, the VIP/VPAC receptor system distribution observed in germ and somatic cells in various phases of the cycle, and particularly in the autumnal resumption and the reproductive period, strongly suggests its involvement in both spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. Finally, the wider distribution of VIP in lizards with respect to mammals leads us to hypothesize that during the evolution the synthesis sites have been transferred from the testis to other districts, such as the brain.
Agnese, M. & Rosati, L. & Coraggio, F. & Valiante,S. & Priosco, M. (2014) -
Using molecular, biochemical, and cytological tools, we studied the nucleotide and the deduced amino acid sequence of PHI/VIP and the distribution of VIP/VPAC receptor system in the testis of the Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula to evaluate the involvement of such a neuropeptide in the spermatogenesis control. We demonstrated that (1) Podarcis sicula VIP had a high identity with other vertebrate VIP sequences, (2) differently from mammals, VIP was synthesized directly in the testis, and (3) VIP and its receptor VPAC2 were widely distributed in germ and somatic cells, while the VPAC1R had a distribution limited to Leydig cells. Our results demonstrated that in Podarcis sicula the VIP sequence is highly preserved and that this neuropeptide is involved in lizard spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis.
Agnese, M. & Valiante, S. & Angelini, F. & Laforgia, V. & Andreuccetti, P. & Prisco, M. (2010) -
The aim of the present work was to study the possible role of adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) 38 in the testicular intracellular mechanism regulating steroidogenesis of crested newt, Triturus carnifex. Gonads were incubated in vitro with PACAP 38 and prostaglandin (PG) E(2) alone or with inhibitors of cyclooxygenase (COX), adenylate cyclase (AC), and phospholipase C (PLC) for 30 min and 60 min. PGE(2), PGF(2 alpha), testosterone, and estradiol-17 beta were measured in the culture medium; aromatase (AR) activity and cAMP were assessed in the tissue. PACAP 38 increased PGE(2) (30 min and 60 min), estradiol-17 beta (60 min), cAMP (60 min), and AR (60 min) but decreased testosterone (60 min). PGE(2) increased estradiol-17 beta, cAMP, and AR and decreased testosterone at 30 and 60 min.PLC inhibitor counteracted the effects of PACAP 38, while AC inhibitor counteracted these effects except for PGE(2) increase. AC inhibitor counteracted the effects of PGE(2), while PLC did not. COX inhibitor decreased PGF(2 alpha) (30 min and 60 min), PGE(2) (30 min and 60 min), estradiol-17 beta (60 min), cAMP (60 min), and AR (60 min), but increased testosterone (60 min). These in vitro results suggest that, in newt testis, PACAP 38 acts on PLC, inducing the increase of PGE(2) which, in turn, acting on AC, increases AR activity with the consequent estradiol-17 beta increase and testosterone decrease.
Aguado de la Paz, S. (2016) -
Las restricciones térmicas pueden limitar la fisiología y el comportamiento de los ectotermos debido a la dependencia térmica de sus funciones metabólicas. Los animales termorreguladores han desarrollado mecanismos de ajuste, tanto comportamentales como fisiológicos, que permiten mantener sus temperaturas corporales en el rango de temperaturas óptimas para la mayoría de las funciones fisiológicas. Además, ciertos rasgos morfológicos pueden favorecer el intercambio de energía con el ambiente así, un menor tamaño corporal aumenta las tasas de calentamiento, del mismo modo que los colores oscuros, por su mayor capacidad de captación de la radiación. En esta tesis, se analiza la termorregulación globalmente, manejando varias especies de saurios para dilucidar los mecanismos que optimizan el proceso de termorregulación en los ambientes más desfavorables. Utilizando como modelo una especie de alta montaña, Iberolacerta cyreni, se estudian los mecanismos de termorregulación empleados en ambientes óptimos y sub-óptimos, explorando el papel del tamaño corporal como rasgo morfológico determinante en la biología térmica. En segundo lugar, se establece el efecto de la temperatura sobre el crecimiento juvenil temprano, rasgo relevante por su influencia sobre el tamaño corporal en la madurez, comparando dos poblaciones de ambientes térmicos contrastados en Iberolacerta monticola. El estudio del rol del melanismo en la biología térmica se aborda desde dos perspectivas. Primero, utilizando como modelo la especie I. monticola, se comparan los patrones de coloración en dos poblaciones de los extremos de su distribución altitudinal, analizando simultáneamente las diferencias locales en la cantidad de melanina y comparando los valores actuales con los de especímenes preservados recolectados en las mismas poblaciones en 1983-1984, discutiendo los posibles efectos del cambio climático. Además, se determina el papel del melanismo sobre las tasas de calentamiento bajo distintas condiciones térmicas. Por último, se midió la variación en la reflectancia y el tamaño corporal, así como en respuesta térmica en la especie Cordylus cordylus, endémica de Sudáfrica. Analizando los resultados bajo la hipótesis del melanismo térmico, se evalúa la hipótesis de la co-adaptación entre la fisiología térmica, el tamaño corporal y el melanismo, valorando la influencia de otros factores de selección, como la cripsis o la disponibilidad de refugios adecuados. Nuestros resultados indican que I. cyreni es una especie termorreguladora activa bastante precisa pese a las limitaciones de las temperaturas disponibles en el campo, mostrando temperaturas preferidas inferiores a la mayoría de lacértidos. El mantenimiento de la temperatura corporal se realiza fundamentalmente mediante ajustes comportamentales, incluso en ambientes sub-óptimos con elevados costes asociados. Por otro lado, en I. monticola, existen diferencias locales en el crecimiento temprano en masa independientes del ambiente térmico, mientras que la norma de reacción del crecimiento en longitud mostró patrones opuestos entre poblaciones. Además, se encontraron evidencias de crecimiento compensatorio, con patrones opuestos en la interacción entre la población y el ambiente térmico entre las poblaciones. El grado de melanismo en I. monticola varía dependiendo de la población (altitud), el sexo y el periodo temporal (1983-1984 vs 2011-2012), con lagartijas más oscuras a mayor altitud, machos más oscuros que hembras, y mayor dimorfismo sexual en la población de montaña en la muestra actual (2011-2012). Este patrón complejo de variación sugiere la existencia de diferentes procesos y mecanismos causales que actúan sobre la evolución de la coloración. Por último, los resultados muestran que en C. cordylus, el tamaño corporal, el melanismo y las adaptaciones térmicas podrían estar co-adaptadas, aunque otros factores, como la selección sexual y la cripsis podrían intervenir en la variación del melanismo entre poblaciones.
Aguado, S. & Brana, F. (2014) -
Thermal constraints may limit the physiology and behaviour of ectotherms because of the high thermal dependence of metabolic functions. The adaptive mechanisms of thermoregulation and the cost of confronting thermal constraints were studied in the Cyren’s Rock Lizard (Iberolacerta cyreni (Muller and Hellmich, 1937)), a lacertid lizard endemic to mountain areas of central Spain. Semicontinuous monitoring of body temperature (Tb) in the laboratory indicated that the preferred temperature range for this population (Tpref) was lower than those found for most lacertid lizards, and field body temperatures of active animals in summer were even lower than Tpref. Overall these results, together with distribution of field operative temperatures (Te), indicate that I. cyreni is an active and relatively accurate thermoregulator, although limited by thermal constraints in their habitat. Laboratory experiments in contrasting thermal environments showed that even under thermally restricted conditions, lizards achieved their Tpref by modifying their thermoregulatory behaviour, principally through changes in space use, basking time, and body posture. However, these behavioural adjustments to reach the Tpref have associated costs, and lizards spent 80% of their time in thermoregulation when tested under low radiation conditions, which in the wild would limit the scope for other activities and eventually increase predation risk. Our results suggest that thermoregulatory behaviour may play an important role in coping with global climate change, hence predictions of the effects of climate warming on lizards inhabiting cold habitats should take into account the buffering role of behavioural thermoregulation.
Aguilar, F. & Solé, J. (1998) -
Aguilar, F.F. de (2016) -
The Madeira wall lizard, Teira dugesii selvagensis, is a partially herbivorous species that also predates Cory shearwater chicks, having an impact of 5% on the reproductive success of this seabird at the island of Selvagem Grande. This study aims to characterize and compare the population structure of Madeira wall lizards, as well as its role in the trophic web of various areas of Selvagem Grande. These areas were designated according to the type of relief, size of seabird colonies and vegetation cover, in two different Cory shearwater nesting seasons (egg incubation and offspring feeding period). The abundance of lizards in different areas and in both seasons was estimated using capture-mark-recapture. Lizard droppings were also collected, to identify contents. Samples of species belonging to the Selvagem Grande trophic chain were collected for isotopic analysis. Isotopic results were analyzed using SIAR and SIBER packages. Both the highest abundance of lizards and the highest vegetation cover were found in areas with small seabirds colonies. In spite of that, the proportion of lizard immatures was higher on the South/Southwest facing cliffs, where the largest seabird colonies are located. Herbivory increases with lizard size, and there was a high percentage of vegetable contents (about 65%) in the droppings. The isotopic basis of the trophic chain varied significantly among areas and is probably influenced by island topography and seabird inputs. Comparing signatures between geckos and lizards of the island, allowed the characterization of niches occupied by each species, being the differences justified by their diets. In areas with larger seabird colonies, seabirds or nutrient inputs brought by them were extremely important for the diet of T.d. selvagensis. The lizards with smaller differences in their isotopic niche between seasons were found in the areas with most seabirds, while the highest isotopic niche differences occured where resources were fewer. Isotopic results validate the dropping analysis, indicating consumption of seabirds during the bird offspring feeding period. Results obtained in this study suggest that the pressure of lizards on seabirds colonies is variable along the island. In contrast to what was expected, in areas with more vegetation there was a reduced impact on seabirds, despite higher abundances of lizards. Lizard monitorization should be continued to assess population trends as vegetation recovers after the eradication of rabbit and domestic mouse.
Aguilar, P. & Andrade, P. & Afonso, S. & Carretero, M.A. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Pinho, C. (2022) -
Long-term maintenance of colour polymorphisms often depends on the interplay of multiple selective forces. In the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), up to three pure and two mosaic ventral colour morphs co-exist across most of its range. Available evidence suggests that colour morphs in this species are maintained through the interaction between sexual and environment-dependent selection. In particular, colour-assortative pairing has been recorded, suggesting some degree of assortative mating. Here, we combined reduced-representation sequencing (ddRADseq) and fine-scale distribution data to explore the effects of assortative pairing on the common wall lizard. Overall, our results do not support any population structure (FST = 0 and K = 1) nor a significant effect of colour morph or geographic location on genomic differentiation. Therefore, we argue that assortative pairing may not fully translate into assortative mating and genomic differentiation between colour morphs and discuss possible explanations. Nonetheless, we find potential support for an elevated population size and/or source-sink dynamics and debate the potential contribution of other forms of selection to the maintenance of colour polymorphisms in lacertids.
Aguilar, P. & Andrade, P. & Dellinger, T. & Carretero, M.A. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. (2024) -
Animal coloration is often shaped by a myriad of factors that lead to differences in colour through changes in the chromatophores. Depending on how this variation is partitioned, coloration is often categorized as continuous or polymorphic. However, the boundaries between these two categories are not always clear. Here, we investigated whether the ventral coloration of the Madeiran wall lizard (Teira dugesii) varies continu- ously or corresponds to discrete colour morphs, via by-eye colour classification and visual modelling. By combining these two approaches, we show that T. dugesii coloration varies continuously and that colour classifications based on anthropomorphic approaches alone are ill suited to describe animal coloration. We also tested the influence of size, body condition, and sex as possible factors that might explain differences in T. dugesii coloration. We found that body condition, and especially size and sex, explain a great proportion of the variability observed in this spe- cies. These differences point to an effect of ontogeny, which might play a major role in colour development owing to the longevity of this species. Moreover, the sexual dichromatism that this species shows is indicative of an effect of sexual selection on coloration, perhaps explained by dif- ferences in circulating hormones.
Aguilar, P. & Andrade, P. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. (2021) -
Color polymorphisms have become a major topic in evolutionary biology and substantial efforts have been devoted to the understanding of the mechanisms responsible for originating such colorful systems. Within-morph continuous variation, on the other hand, has been neglected in most of the studies. Here, we combine spectrophotometric/ visual modeling and genetic data to study the mechanisms promoting continuous variation within categorical color morphs of Podarcis muralis. Our results suggest that intra-morph variability in the pterin-based orange morph is greater compared to white and yellow morphs. We also show that continuous variation within the orange morph is partially discriminable by conspecifics. Genotyping results indicate that allelic variants at the BCO2 locus (responsible for deposition of yellow carotenoids) contribute to generate continuous variation in orange individuals. However, other intrinsic and/or extrinsic mechanisms, such as body size, might be involved, opening a new avenue for future research on the drivers of continuous variation within-morphs.
Aguilar, P. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carneiro, M. & Andrade, P. & Pinho, C. (2024) -
The maintenance of polymorphisms often depends on multiple selective forces, but less is known on the role of stochastic or historical processes in maintaining variation. The common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) is a colour polymorphic species in which local colour morph frequencies are thought to be modulated by natural and sexual se- lection. Here, we used genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism data to investi- gate the relationships between morph composition and population biogeography at a regional scale, by comparing morph composition with patterns of genetic variation of 54 populations sampled across the Pyrenees. We found that genetic divergence was explained by geographic distance but not by environmental features. Differences in morph composition were associated with genetic and environmental differentiation, as well as differences in sex ratio. Thus, variation in colour morph frequencies could have arisen via historical events and/or differences in the permeability to gene flow, possibly shaped by the complex topography and environment. In agreement with this hypothesis, colour morph diversity was positively correlated with genetic diversity and rates of gene flow and inversely correlated with the likelihood of the occurrence of bottlenecks. Concurrently, we did not find conclusive evidence for selection in the two colour loci. As an illustration of these effects, we observed that populations with higher proportions of the rarer yellow and yellow-orange morphs had higher genetic diversity. Our results suggest that processes involving a decay in overall genetic di- versity, such as reduced gene flow and/or bottleneck events have an important role in shaping population-specific morph composition via non-selective processes.
Ahl, E. (1927) -
Ahl, E. (1928) -
Ahl, E. (1929) -
Ahmadzadeh, F. (2008) -
Two species of Lacerta genus are found in Northwest of Iran: Lacerta media and Lacerta strigata. Lacerta media has wide distribution range and is an important lizard fauna element in agro- ecosystems and river closed humid areas. The aim of this study was to provide reasons for high population size of this species in agro ecosystems. So, this study was performed in the farming areas in Meshkinshar, Ardabil province of Iran from 2003 to 2006. Based on extensive field research, it has been mainly found that Lacerta media is the most abundant reptile species in mentioned habitats and it just inhabits areas that are much closed to water. Our results also showed, animal is hidden by dense grass vegetation cover especially male that has green color. They use old hallows of mice and other small vertebrates for hiding and egg lying. In spring they are seen on cultivated filed boundaries on stones on sunny days. As specific result, they are found in apple orchards more abundant than other cultivated fields. It seems that permanent food accessibility (insects) and fewer predators are most reasons. Finally, Lacerta media is interesting species to study from a conservational point of view because of its unusual frequency of occurrence as parallel with human activities.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Carretero, M. A. & Harris, D. J. & Perera, A. & Böhme, W. (2012) -
Timon, a small genus of lacertid lizards, includes four species distributed in two separate ranges in the western and eastern part of the Mediterranean Basin. Phylogenetic relationships between the two groups have not been resolved, and the taxonomic situation of the two subspecies of the eastern representative of the genus, Timon princeps, is not clear. To address these questions, partial DNA sequences of two nuclear (β-fibrinogen intron 7 and C-mos) and three mitochondrial (cytochrome b, 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA) genes were analyzed. Based on the high genetic distance between the two subspecies of T. princeps we promote their taxonomic status to full species, Timon princeps and Timon kurdistanicus. Divergence time estimates based on other lacertid species suggest that the separation of the green (Lacerta) and ocellated (Timon) lizards took place around 12 My ago, and that the Eastern group underwent speciation around 4-5 my ago, perhaps associated with the uplifting of the Zagros mountains. As expected given this ancient divergence and complex paleogeography, considerable levels of genetic diversity are recovered within both taxa, with geographically close individuals showing very divergent haplotypes.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Carretero, M.A. & Rödder, D. & Harris, D.J. & Freitas, S.N. & Perera, A. & Böhme, W. (2013) -
A variety of different methods are available for investigating the effects of past climate fluctuation on biota. Among them, molecular phylogeography and species distribution modeling approaches have been shown to be especially useful tools to trace past climate induced modifications of species’ geographic distributions. The results of both analytical approaches are here combined to better understand the influences of past climate changes on the fragmented distribution pattern of the lizard genus Iranolacerta that currently occurs in the northwest and central Zagros Mountains of Iran. While Iranolacerta zagrosica is restricted to few localities and cannot be modeled, the potential distribution of Iranolacerta brandtii suggested a large region of unfavorable habitat between northwest and the central Zagros Mountains populations. From the phylogenetic perspective, both species display deep genetic separation likely predating the Pleistocene. However, limited genetic diversity across this divided range of I. brandtii implies that the current separation is recent. Deeper genetic divergences were, nevertheless, uncovered within the northwest population. Since no recent geological events explain these results, the most likely explanation for such a distribution pattern is due to past climate fluctuations. Both sources of evidence suggest that during the early Holocene the northwest and Zagros populations of I. brandtii were connected, and the current pattern was shaped with their disconnection in the early Holocene. Further studies may identify potential glacial refugia for other species in this biodiverse region.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Flecks, M. & Carretero, M.A. & Böhme, W. & Ihlow, F. & Kapli, P. & Miraldo, A. & Rödder, D. (2016) -
Aim The ocellated lizards of the genus Timon, comprising six species that are distributed across continental Asia, Europe and Africa, offer an interesting model to study the evolution of ecological niches through comparative phyloclimatic analysis. Our study provides insights into the evolutionary history of the ocellated lizards and helps to understand the role of climatic niche evolution during the speciation process. Location Eastern and western margins of the Mediterranean basin. Methods A dated molecular phylogeny was estimated based on three mitochondrial and two nuclear genes. Using multivariate statistics, species distribution models were developed to characterize the Grinnellian niches of all species. Subsequently, ancestral environmental niche occupancy of each taxon was reconstructed using niche occupancy profiles. Niche divergence among species was quantified by computing multivariate niche overlaps via twodimensional and n-dimensional approaches. Results Phylogenetic analysis supports that the ancestor of Timon diverged into the eastern and western groups following multiple vicariance events that shaped the current distribution pattern of Palaearctic lizards. High complexity in the ecological niche evolution between the Mediterranean and non-Mediterranean climatic regions was detected. The generally low niche divergence among members of the eastern group and the remarkable climatic divergence within the western group highlight an important role of temperature seasonality in a Mediterranean and Atlantic climate context. The results also suggest niche conservatism in terms of microhabitats described by vegetation cover. Main conclusions The ocellated lizards provide an interesting example of a vertebrate radiation where niche shift (with or without vicariance) and niche conservatism alternate in different niche axes shaping current biogeographical patterns.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Flecks, M. & Carretero, M.A. & Böhme, EW. & Ilgaz, C. & Engler, J.O. & Harris, D.J. & Üzüm, N. & Rödder, D. (2013) -
Aim Diversification and rapid radiation are well documented in lacertid lizards. Niche conservation is frequently observed among related taxa, whereby niches will not change much during speciation events. Here, we investigate the relationship between environmental niche divergence and phylogenetic relatedness in a widespread group of green lizards, the Lacerta trilineata group. Location Eastern Mediterranean, Anatolia and adjacent regions. Methods A dated phylogeny based on three mitochondrial genes was contextualized using species distribution models of all genetically identified lineages in the Lacerta trilineata group. Based on this analysis, ancestral climatic niche occupancy was reconstructed using niche occupancy profiles. Niche divergence among lineages was quantified by computing multivariate niche overlaps. Results All taxa are associated with humid areas, but there is extensive variation in their climatic niche breadths and positions, which accord with the main phylogenetic split in the group. Our results suggest divergent niche evolution within subclades and convergent evolution among clades, which implies only a limited degree of niche conservatism regarding annual variations in temperature and precipitation. In contrast, niche axes – mainly reflecting precipitation patterns of the coldest quarter – show a greater difference among clades than within clades, and therefore a higher degree of niche conservatism. Main conclusions Based on estimated divergence times between taxa and geological events in Anatolia, our results can be explained by fragmentation of the range of a hypothetical ancestral species, resulting in different adaptations of subclades either to humid continental climates or to more Mediterranean climates. Our study highlights deviations from classical niche conservatism theory due to significant niche shifts among sister taxa.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Flecks, M. & Carretero, M.A. & Böhme, W. & Ilgar, C. & Engler, J.O. & Harris, D.J. & Üzüm, N. & Rödder, D. (2013) -
Diversification and rapid radiation are well documented in lacertid lizards. Niche conservatism is frequently observed among related taxa, whereby ecological niches remain mostly stable during speciation events. Here, we investigate the relationship between environmental niche divergence and phylogenetic relatedness in a widespread group of green lizards, the Lacerta trilineata group. A dated phylogeny based on three mitochondrial genes was contextualized using species distribution models of all genetically identified lineages in the Lacerta trilineata group. Based on this analysis, ancestral climatic niche occupancy was reconstructed using niche occupancy profiles. Niche divergence among lineages was quantified by computing multivariate niche overlaps. All taxa are associated with humid areas, but there is extensive variation in their climatic niche breadths and positions, which accord with the main phylogenetic split in the group. Our results suggest divergent niche evolution within subclades and convergent evolution among clades, which implies only a limited degree of niche conservatism regarding annual variations in temperature and precipitation. In contrast, niche axes – mainly reflecting precipitation patterns of the coldest quarter – show a greater difference among clades than within clades, and therefore a higher degree of niche conservatism. Based on estimated divergence times between taxa and geological events in Anatolia, our results can be explained by fragmentation of the range of a hypothetical ancestral species, resulting in different adaptations of subclades either to humid continental climates or to more Mediterranean climates. Our study highlights deviations from classical niche conservatism theory due to significant niche shifts among sister taxa.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Flecks, M. & Carretero, M.A. & Mozaffari, O. & Böhme, W. & Harris, D.J. & Freitas, S. & Rödder, D. (2013) -
While traditionally species recognition has been based solely on morphological differences either typological or quantitative, several newly developed methods can be used for a more objective and integrative approach on species delimitation. This may be especially relevant when dealing with cryptic species or species complexes, where high overallresemblance between species is coupled with comparatively high morphological variation within populations. Rock lizards, genus Darevskia, are such an example, as many of its members offer few diagnostic morphological features. Herein, we use a combination of genetic, morphological and ecological criteria to delimit cryptic species within two species complexes, D. chlorogaster and D. defilippii, both distributed in northern Iran. Our analyses are based on molecular information from two nuclear and two mitochondrial genes, morphological data (15 morphometric, 16 meristic and four categorical characters) and eleven newly calculated spatial environmental predictors. The phylogeny inferred for Darevskia confirmed monophyly of each species complex, with each of them comprising several highly divergent clades, especially when compared to other congeners. We identified seven candidate species within each complex, of which three and four species were supported by Bayesian species delimitation within D. chlorogaster and D. defilippii, respectively. Trained with genetically determined clades, Ecological Niche Modeling provided additional support for these cryptic species. Especially those within the D. defilippii-complex exhibit well-differentiated niches. Due to overall morphological resemblance, in a first approach PCA with mixed variables only showed the separation between the two complexes. However, MANCOVA and subsequent Discriminant Analysis performed separately for both complexes allowed for distinction of the species when sample size was large enough, namely within the D. chlorogaster-complex. In conclusion, the results support four new species, which are described herein.
While traditionally species recognition has been based solely on morphological differences either typological or quantitative, several newly developed methods can be used for a more objective and integrative approach on species delimitation. This may be especially relevant when dealing with cryptic species or species complexes, where high overall resemblance between species is coupled with comparatively high morphological variation within populations. Rock lizards, genus Darevskia, are such an example, as many of its members offer few diagnostic morphological features. Herein, we use a combination of genetic (two nuclear and two mitochondrial loci), morphological (15 morphometric, 16 meristic and four categorical characters) and ecological (eleven newly calculated spatial environmental predictors) criteria to delimit cryptic species within two species complexes, D. chlorogaster and D. defilippii, both distributed in northern Iran. Phylogenetic analyses of the molecular data confirmed the monophyly of D. chlorogaster, while D. defilippii is paraphyletic in respect to D. steineri. However, each of the complexes comprises several highly divergent clades, especially when compared to other congeners. We identified seven candidate species within each complex, of which three and four species are supported by Bayesian species delimitation within D. chlorogaster and D. defilippii (including D. steineri), respectively. Although the species within one complex lack clear diagnostic features, they can be well separated based on morphological variables when sample size is appropriate. Ecological Niche Modelling provided additional support for the identified species and niche overlaps between them are generally low, especially in the D. defilippii complex.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Flecks, M. & Rödder, D. & Böhme, W. & Ilgaz, C. & Harris, D.J. & Engler, J.O. & Üzüm, N. & Carretero, M.A. (2013) -
The oriental green lizards of the Lacerta trilineata group are widely distributed in Greece, Anatolia, the eastern Mediterranean, the southern Caucasus, and the Zagros mountains in Iran. We studied their phylogeography using three mitochondrial markers with comprehensive sampling from most representatives of the group. Their phylogeny and divergence times (implementing fossil-based molecular clock calibrations) were inferred using Bayesian methods, and haplotype networks were reconstructed to assess how genetic diversity and current distributional patterns were shaped. According to our phylogenetic analyses, the group constitutes a well-supported monophylum containing several distinct evolutionary lineages with high haplotype diversity. Vicariance might explain the divergences within most lineages that have accumulated by range restriction and expansion of populations as a result of Quaternary climate oscillations and glacial refugia. However, niche divergence appears to be a major force promoting speciation, and large scale distributional patterns between lineages were shaped earlier by multiple, independent dispersals out of Anatolia during the Pliocene and early Pleistocene. The results of the present study also suggest that the group is in need of a taxonomical revision because the identified lineages and genetic diversity are not congruent with the currently recognized subspecies.
The oriental green lizards of the Lacerta trilineata group are widely distributed in Greece, Anatolia, the eastern Mediterranean, the southern Caucasus andthe Zagros mountains in Iran. We studied their phylogeography using three mitochondrial markers with comprehensive sampling from most representatives of the group. Their phylogeny and divergence times (implementing fossilbased molecular clock calibrations) were inferred using Bayesian methods, and haplotype networks were reconstructed to assess how genetic might explain the divergences within most lineages that have accumulated by range restriction and expansion of populations due to Quarternary climate oscillations and glacial refugia. However, niche divergence seems to be a major force promoting speciation and large scale distributional patterns between lineages were shaped earlier by multiple, independent dispersals out of Anatolia during the Pliocene and early Pleistocene. Our results also suggest that the group is in need of a taxonomical revision, as identified lineages and genetic diversity are not congruent with the currently recognised subspecies.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Kami, H.G. & Hojjati, V. & Rezazadeh, E. (2009) -
In this study a total of 29 Eremias strauchi strauchi specimens (10 males, 16 females and three juveniles), collected from different localities in northwest of Iran were examined. The study was based on morphological features including color pattern, morphometric measurements, pholidotic characters, as well as ecological and biological observations especially habitat, reproductive biology and distribution. Habitat features and new distribution localities were documented. Egg characters of Eremias strauchi strauchi such as shape, size, number and color are reported for the first time. Also, some other new information on this species has been given.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Kheyrandish, A. (2006) -
The Northwest of Iran, covering the three provinces of Ardabil, East Azerbaijan and West Azerbaijan, is a special area that, due to its particular geographical and climatic conditions has a rich biodiversity. The present study was conducted with the aim of studying the habitat, substrate type, feeding, conservation and distribution of lizards in this area from 2003 to now. Our results have revealed that there are 20 lizard species belonging to 13 genera and 5 families in this area. Lacertid lizards have the highest species diversity with 12 species. We also found that high ranges of habitats with a different substrate types are inhabited by lizard species. The number of species in pine regions compared with other types of area is considerably greater. The conservation status of lizards is unknown and requires further study.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Kiabi, B.H. & Kami, H.G. & Hojjati, V. (2008) -
Northwestern Iran has unique geographical and climatic conditions that support a rich flora and fauna. In view of the lack of in-depth studies on the lizards of the region, an investigation was started in the northern part of Ardabil Province for an inventory of this component of the fauna and their habitats. Collections were made from October 2003 to June 2005 and 165 specimens were collected and identified. Five families, 12 genera and 15 species are represented, including Agamidae: Laudakia caucasia, Phrynocephalus persicus, Trapelus ruderatus; Lacertidae: Lacerta media media, Lacerta strigata, Lacerta brandtii, Darevskia raddei raddei, Eremias strauchi strauchi, Eremias arguta, Ophisops elegans; Scincidae: Mabuya aurata transcaucasica, Eumeces schneiderii princeps, Abelepharus bivittatus; Anguidae: Pseudopus apodus and Gekkonidae: Cyrtopodion caspium caspium. Comparing this list to the data provided by Anderson (1999), it seems that most of the lizards are being reported for the Province for the first time. The families Gekkonidae and Anguidae are newly recorded, and the gecko Cyrtopodion caspium is first recorded from the west and northwest of Iran. With seven species represented in the area, lacertids have the highest species diversity among the lizard families and need further study. Habitat features also have been given for all species.
Ahmadzadeh, F. & Lymberakis, P. & Saberi Pirouza, R. & Kapli, P. (2017) -
The Iranian Plateau is an area of highly complex landscape and incredibly diverse habitats, from salt deserts to temperate forests. Such a heterogeneous environment, at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, fuels the high diversity and uniqueness of the Iranian fauna and flora. Nevertheless, our understanding of the historical processes that shaped the Iranian biodiversity remains limited. In this context, we revisit the evolutionary history of the two most widespread lizard species on the Iranian Plateau (Eremias persica and Mesalina watsonana) to explore whether these two taxa of similar ecology have been subjected to similar historical processes. To achieve that, we performed a series of phylogenetic analyses and thoroughly tested all possible alternative topologies based on available mitochondrial sequences (cytochrome b and 12S ribosomal RNA). Additionally, we estimated the number of mitochondrial clusters based on a novel single-locus delimitation method and the time of their divergence, using recently inferred evolutionary rates for lacertid species. The results indicate that the two taxa have been shaped by similar physiographic and climatic barriers since both phytogenies split into similar geographical clusters. However, E. persica has twice as long evolutionary time on the Iranian Plateau than M. watsonana. The first divergence of E. persica was estimated in the Middle Miocene (~13 Mya), at the time of the major uplift of the Zagros mountain range. The Upper Miocene tectonic rearrangement that resulted in the uplift of the Alborz mountains coincides with the original split in M. watsonana (~6.6 Mya) and several contemporaneous splits within E. persica.
Ahrens, J. (2014) -
Ahrens, J. (2020) -
Ai, Q., Zongyua, L., Yiqiong, Z., Jun.Shen Zhongping, G..Guangwei, J. and Hongsu, W. (1992) -
E · a · argus possesses 2u = 38 chromomes with a chromosome formula as 2n = 341 + 2m+ZW.NF=38. The C-bands of centric regions are found on all of chromosomes. Telomeric C-bands can be seen of pairs -1 chromosomes. As compared with species of close relative Eremias brenchleyi .there is a world of difference between the two state chearly :The Karyotype of E · a · argus more evolution. Meanwhile conduct a discussion on the relation of Karyotype evolution and species.
Ajtic, A. & Tomovic, L. & Aleksic, I. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2005) -
Dalmatian Algyroides (Algyroides nigropunctatus, DUMERIL and BIBRON, 1839) is a Balkan subendemic lacertid lizard with strong dependence on the Mediterranean climatic conditions. Its distribution area is restricted to the coastal zone and the islands of the Eastern Adriatic and in the Western part of Ionian Sea. Relatively few data of Dalmatian Algyroides were known for the territory of Serbia and Montenegro. This species was found relatively deep inlands in the valleys, canyons and gorges of the Eastern Adriatic tributaries in Montenegro, as well as in Metohia (Serbia). In this paper, we present more precise insight into the distributional pattern of this species in Montenegro. Conservation status of this species in Serbia and Montenegro is also proposed.
Akarsu, F. & Tuniyev, B. & Ananjeva, N. & Agasyan, A. & Orlov, N. & Tuniyev, S. (2009) -
Akeret, B. (2007) -
Akeret, B. (2017) -
Akiki, Y.S. & Saadé, J.H. & Hokayem, M.L. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. (2015) -
We studied the female reproductive cycle in a population of the oviparous lizard Acanthodactylus schreiberi syriacus from sandy beaches of Tyre, Lebanon. Females emerged from hibernation in mid-April, one month later than males. They reached sexual maturity at 57 mm snout-vent length and had smaller body sizes than males. Fertilization started in May. Among 33 gravid females, only one female showed evidence for two clutches produced in the same reproductive season whereas most of females laid one clutch per season. Mean clutch size was 2.5 ± 1.0, ranging from 1-4. We found no significant correlation between female body size and clutch size.
Akkaya, A. & Uĝurtaş, H. (2006) -
The feeding biology of Ophisops elegans inhabiting Bursa was investigated. Stomach contents of 66 adult (28 ðð, 38 ¦¦) specimens collected from 3 localities were investigated by numerical analysis. Most of the foods of the Ophisops elegans specimens were insects (64.58%), the majority of which were of larval form (19.44%). Two specimens that were collected from Grsu were maintained in a terrarium to observe their feeding behaviors. During observations, Ophisops elegans exhibited various feeding behaviors depending on the type of prey and sometimes bit and ate pieces of its prey (legs, wings, etc.).
Akman, B. (2019) -
There are limited studies on the Iskenderun Lizard, Acanthodactylus schreiberi Boulenger, 1878, which is known to distribute in a single area in Turkey, up to now. This study aimed to determine the distribution area, some ecological features, population size, species threatening factors and precautions to be taken for it. As a result of the field studies, it was determined that Acanthodactylus schreiberi distributes in the 7 local areas from Burnaz Coast in Erzin district to Dörtyol district, Hatay Province. Population size estimated as 13193 specimens.
Ülkemizde tek bir alanda dağılış gösteren İskenderun Kertenkelesi, Acanthodactylus schreiberi Boulenger, 1878 ile ilgili yapılan çalışmalar oldukça sınırlıdır. Yapılan bu çalışma ile A. schreiberi’nin populasyon büyüklüğü, dağılış alanının belirlenmesi, üreme ekolojisi gibi bazı ekolojik özelliklerinin ve türü tehdit eden faktörler ve alınması gereken önlemlerin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Bu çalışma sonucunda İskenderun Kertenkelesi’nin Hatay ilinin Erzin ve Dörtyol ilçelerinde yer alan Burnaz Sahilinde 7 alanda kesikli dağılış gösterdiği belirlenmiş ve gerçekleştirilen çalışmalarının sonucu populasyon büyüklüğü 13193 birey olarak tahmin edilmiştir.
Akman, B. & Yildiz, M.Z. & Igci, N. & Tel, A.Z. & Azidel, Ö. & Bulum, E. & Göcmen, B. (2016) -
Akman, B. & Yildizt, M.Z. & Özcan, A.F. & Bozkurt, M.A. & Igci, N. & Göcmen, B. (2018) -
Anhand ihrer Feld- und Literaturstudien identifizierten die Autoren 36 Amphibien- und Reptilienarten, die nachweislich in der turkischen Provinz Bitlis vorkommen, wobei die Fundorte und die an ihnen angetroffenen Habitattypen angegeben werden. die durch Beobachtung festgestellten Hauptgefahrdungsursachen werden benannt. insgesamt kennt man aus dem Untersuchungsgebiet Vorkommen von vier Froschlurch-, zwei Schwanzlurch- und Schildkrötenarten sowie 15 Echsen- und 13 Schlangenarten. Hyla savignyi Audouin, 1827, Heremites vittatus (Olivier, 1804), Timon kurdistanicus (Suchow, 1936) and Eirenis thospitis Schmidtler & Lanza, 1990, stellen Erstnachweise fur die Provinz Bitlis dar.
Al Nasr, I.S. (2013) -
Endogenous stages of Isospora acanthodactyli from sandy fringed-toed lizard (Acanthodactylus schmidti) were described for the first time, in Al-Qassim, Saudi Arabia. Merogony and gamogony took place inside the host cell’s cytoplasm, in the distal part of the small intestine. Multinucleated meronts, microgamonts and macrogametes were described and measured.
Al-Badry, K.S. (1975) -
Corpuscular Constants: hemoglobin, hematocrit (packed cell volume), and red cell count; also blood glucose and total plasma protein of the lizards Acanthodactylus scutellatus and Eremias brevirostris were determined. For Acanthodactylus scutellatus the mean values are : 8.5 g/100 ml, 30.0%, 1.135 x 106/mm3, 224.6 mg/100 ml, and 4.7 g %. For Eremias brevirostris the mean values are: 9.2 g/100 ml, 30.8%, and 1.424 x 106/mm3, 217 mg/100 ml, and 4.0 g % respectively. Electrophoretic mobilities of the three protein systems, serum, plasma and hemoglobin ere similar in the two lacertid lizards, but different from those previously obtained by the same author for two agamid lizards. Electrophoretic patterns of serum and plasma proteins consist in both lizards of four fractions, albumin, ل-globulin, â-globulin and م-globulin. The ل-globulin fraction was not resolved into and ل1 and ل-2- C12 as obtained in the agamid lizards. Regarding the relative proportions of the different protein fractions and the albumin: globulin ratio. both lizards showed but little variation from each other. In all individuals of the two species examined, no fibrinogen fraction was detected in their plasma patterns. Hemoglobin of both lizards behaved as a homogeneous single fraction slightly moving towards the anode. The rate of movement was nearly the same in both lizards, but it differed from that recorded for the agamid lizards.
Al-Badry, K.S. (1978) -
Al-Bakry, A.M. & Abdeen, A.M. & Abo-Eleneen, R.E. (2013) -
The aim of this study is to show the osteological characters of the fore- and hind-limbs and the locomotion features in some reptilian species: Laudakia stellio, Hemidactylus turcicus, Acanthodatylus scutellatus, Chalcides ocellatus, Chamaeleo chamaeleon, collected from different localities from Egypt desert and Varanus griseus from lake Nassir in Egypt. In the studied species, the fore- and hind-feet show wide range of variations and modifications as they play very important roles in the process of jumping, climbing and digging which suit their habitats and their mode of life. The skeletal elements of the hand and foot exhibit several features reflecting the specialized methods of locomotion, and are related to the remarkable adaptations. Locomotion is a fundamental skill for animals. The animals of the present studies can take various forms including swimming, walking as well as some more idiosyncratic gaits such as hopping and burrowing.
Al-Barazengy, A.N. & Salman, A.O. & Abdul Hameed, F.T. (2015) -
The present work provides a list of all amphibians and reptiles recorded from Iraq up to 2014. It includes 115 species (105 species of reptiles and 10 species of amphibians) dating back to 25 families (20 families of reptiles and 5 families of amphibians). Conservation status of each species was mentioned.
Al-Dokhi, O.A. (2006) -
The aim of the present study was to describe the sperm head differentiation in the lizardAcanthodactylus boskinus at the ultrastructural level. For this purpose, five adult male lizards were collected during April and May, 2004 from the desert at the north-east area of Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia. Testes of the lizards were processed for transmission electron microscopy. Thorough observation of the ultrastructural differentiation events of the sperm head has led to a concept of four sequential morphogenetic phases; Golgi phase, cap phase, nuclear elongation and chromatin condensation phase and maturation phase. The Golgi phase is initiated by the proliferation of Golgi complexes in the early spermatids to generate numerous microvesicles and the phase is terminated by the formation of a voluminous acrosomal vesicle. Flattening of the developed acrosomal vesicle over the anterior nuclear portion to form a cap associated with dissolution of the acrosomal granule are the features of the cap phase. Subsequent elongation of the spermatid nucleus accompanied with nuclear chromatin condensation are the features of the following phase. The final maturation phase is characterized by complete chromatin condensation and disappearance of the microtubule manchette. The general features of the differentiation process, which accord with the common criteria of other reptiles, as well as the existing differences are discussed.
Al-Dokhi, O.A. (2012) -
The major ultrastructural features of the sperm tail differentiation in the lizard, Acanthodactylus boskinus (A. boskinus) have been described. The initial step is the caudal migration of the centrioles followed by insertion of the proximal centriole in the nuclear fossa and extension of the distal centriole to form the microtubular axoneme. Thereafter, tail differentiation involves the development of neck region and middle, main and end pieces. The later three tail pieces along their extension encompass the axonemal complex which reveals the typical (9+2) arrangement of microtubules. The axonemal complex in the middle piece is enveloped within two successive sheaths, the mitochondrial and fibrous ones while its extension in the main piece is only encircled by the fibrous sheath. The end piece only manifestes the existence of the axonemal complex surrounded by the plasmalemma of the fully differentiated spermatids.
Al-Hashem, A. (2009) -
Desert locations in Al-Burgan oil fields of Kuwait were subjected to oil pollution generated by the Gulf war in 1990. Studying sand lizard (Acanthodactylus scutellatus) population and their ant prey in the years 2002 and 2003 to monitor the effects of oil pollution was thought to be useful in an area damaged by oil spill. Sites with apparently different levels of pollution, namely tar mat, soot and clear sites were compared with control sites outside this area. Live specimens of A. scutellatus were collected by drift fence and pitfall traps and were marked by toe clipping and painting bands before they were released. Ant population was collected by removal methods using vacuum. The mark-recapture Schnabel method of population estimation was used. The results revealed no difference in lizard population sizes between the different study sites in 2002 and 2003. A slight difference was observed in ant population sizes between the sites in 2002 but no difference was detected between the sites in 2003. Although, the mean estimated lizard numbers were lowest at the tar mat sites, the ant number in this location was greatest, meaning that food availability was highest at these sites. This suggests any reduction in the numbers of lizards is unrelated to low resource availability.
Al-Hashem, M. (2009) -
Desert ecosystems in Al-Burgan oil fields of Kuwait were contaminated by heavy metals and petroleum hydrocarbons due to oil spill generated by the Gulf War in 1990. Studying sand lizard (Acanthodactylus scutellatus) population and their ant prey in the years 2002 and 2003 to detect the effects of oil pollution is now a focus of study. Polluted sites with apparently different degrees of pollution (namely tar mat, soot and clear sites) were compared with control sites outside this region. Total lizard numbers were recorded by using transect method. Number of ants was recorded by walking the transects and counting ants present. The results showed no difference in lizard population between the different study sites in 2002 and 2003 by applying the transect method. No difference in ant populations between the different study sites in 2002 and 2003. Although, the mean estimated lizard numbers were lower at the tar mat sites, the ant number in this location was greatest, meaning that food availability was highest at these sites. This suggests any reduction in the numbers of lizards is unrelated to low resource availability. The lizard numbers at the tar mat sites could be depressed by some property of the pollutants.
Al-Hashem, M. & Brain, P. (2009) -
This study investigated the impact of oil pollution on morphological measurements in adult male and female sand lizards captured in locations with apparently different pollution levels. The results of this study confirmed that there is sexual dimorphism in body size, with males being generally larger than females at all the study sites. Adult male (but not female) lizards were generally bigger at the Tar mat and soot than the clear and control sites. The increase in body size and weight suggests that there is a greater availability of food for these somewhat territorial reptiles in both the Tar mat and soot sites. An alternative explanation is that the food resource is affected by oil pollution such that lizards consuming prey with high levels of fat accumulate more adipose tissue in their bodies.
Al-Hashem, M. & Brain, P.F. & Omar, S. (2007) -
Using indicator species to monitor the effects of oil pollution was thought to be useful to assess whether local desert reptiles and their insect prey could fulfill such a role in an area damaged in the second Gulf War (1990). Polluted sites with apparently different degrees of contamination (namely tar mat, soot, and clear sites) located at Kuwait`s Greater Al-Burgan oil field were compared with control areas outside this region in study conducted in 2002. Five Acanthodactylus scutellatus lizards from each study and control site were humanely killed and stored in a freezer at -20 degrees C until analysis. Ants from the same sites were also collected and treated in a similar manner. Lizard and ant whole body tissues were subjected to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to determine concentrations of petroleum hydrocarbons (HCs). The study concentrated on sixteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), EPA priority pollutants used as indicators of petrogenic HC contamination. There were significantly different concentrations of total PAHs in lizards and ants among all four study sites. Of the 16 PAHs, phenanthrene, fluoranthene, and benzo[a]anthracene were present in both lizard and ant samples from the Greater Al-Burgan oil field sites irrespective of the apparent degree of pollution but were undetectable in materials from the control sites. The range of total PAHs in lizards was 26.5-301 ng g(-1) and it was 6.7-82.1 ng g(-1) in ants. Concentrations increased progressively along an expected contamination gradient. Total PAHs were detected in biota even in an area (clear site) that did not appear, virtually, to contain petroleum soil pollution which supports the value of indicator biota species. For all three sites where PAHs were found in biota, the ratio of total PAHs in ants to lizards was consistently 3.3-3.4. These data show that, although 12 years have passed since the Kuwait oil spill catastrophe, all sites are still contaminated with PAHs. Use of lizard and ant materials in monitoring such desert locations seems to be an effective strategy.
Al-Hashem, M.A. (2011) -
The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of oil pollution in a desert location (the Greater Al-Burgan oil fields, an area damaged in the Gulf War in 1991) in Kuwait on the hepatotoxicity of the Sand lizard Acanthodactylus scutellatus (A. scutellatus). Twenty lizards (10 of each sex) from each polluted and each control sites were collected. Livers were removed from dissected animals and ready for fixation by Bouin`s solution and formal-saline. Twenty sections (10 from males and 10 from females) from each tar mat (polluted) and control sites were prepared and examined for cell diameter and nuclear measurements using Cell Analysis Systems. The cytology of hepatocytes showed normal appearance in samples from the control sites. Dead cells were abundant in the sections of lizard livers from the tar mat sites and occurred in notably greater numbers than the sections of livers of animals from the control sites. Examinations of the data confirm that the cell and nuclear diameters in liver samples of males collected from polluted sites were generally greater than those of corresponding females. The liver sections obtained from animals in the tar mat site had greater cellular diameters than counterparts from control sites. Females from the polluted sites were also affected by oil pollution by having larger hepatocyte diameters and their nuclei were also affected, being larger than female nuclei from the control sites. The most remarkable feature observed in hepatocytes of lizards collected from the tar mat sites were swelling of hepatocytes, ballooning degeneration of hepatic cytoplasm and cell death. This study confirmed that the prolonged exposure to oil pollution may result in increased accumulation of contaminants and may cause severe liver pathology in a range of wild organisms such as A. scutellatus.
Al-Hashem, M.A. & Brain, P.F. (2009) -
Oil pollution in desert locations in Greater Al-Burgan oil fields of Kuwait generated by the 1990 Gulf war has changed field behaviour and morphology of the Fringe-toed Lizard Acan- thodactylus scutellatus (Audouin, 1827). Lizards from the dark ‘tar mat’ locations are notably darker in colour than those from the control sites. Consequently, A. scutellatus collected from ‘tar mat’ and counterparts from lighter control sites were compared in laboratory studies where the lizards could choose between a dark and a light side of an enclosure. The former lizards showed a clear preference for darker substrates whereas the latter clearly preferred the light substrate. Dark lizards on tar mat have more effective crypsis but also some advantages in terms of solar gain (surprisingly, reptiles from tar mat sites are generally larger than counterparts from uncontami- nated sites). It is uncertain whether the presence of dark substrates for more than a decade (this study was conducted in 2003) has resulted in a selection of morphologically dark sand lizards with a preference for dark surfaces or whether these reptiles simply use their skin chromatophores to adapt to different surfaces but show a preference for substrates similar to their body colour- ation.
Al-Hashem, M.A. & Brain, P.F. & Omar, S.A. (2008) -
An attempt was made to study the effects of oil pollution in a desert location (the Greater Al-Burgan oil fields, an area damaged in the second Gulf War) in Kuwait on the behaviour of the Sand lizard A, scutellatus. Polluted sites with apparently different degrees of contamination (namely tar mat, soot and clear sites) were compared with control areas outside this region. Between 2002 and 2003, ten lizards (5 of each sex) on each polluted and each control site were observed in the field at a time of the year when they were highly active. Air, substrate and burrow temperatures were recorded and lizards were monitored for their morning emergence times, as well as their basking and foraging activities. The present study confirmed that the morning emergence times and the basking behavior varied in sand lizards among the different pollution site categories. Physical changes in the tat mat sites caused the substrate temperatures in these locations to rise more quickly in the morning in response to solar gain than was the case in the other sites. This gives lizards in these locations the opportunity to emerge earlier and to start eating more quickly, giving them an energetic advantage (perhaps, in turn, influencing their rates of growth and fecundity). The cleat sites had the next earliest emergence and were the next hottest but it is difficult to account for this in terms of the physical characteristics of this site. The basking times were clearly shorter on the dark soot and tar mat sites that appeared to have higher solar gain than control or clear sites. There did not appear to be any obvious differences in foraging activity of lizards in the different locations. It appears that some aspects of simple behaviour in these lizards provides a reliable, noninvasive indices for assessing oil pollution in desert locations. The precise impact of these changes in these reptiles on their long-term viability needs to be evaluated.
Al-Hemaidi, A.A.M. & Al-Hajari, S.A. & Al Subai, K. & Mohtar, R.H. & Pelegri, J.M. & Castilla, A.M. (2014) -
Al-Johany, A.M.H. (1986) -
Al-Johany, A.M.H. & Spellerberg, I.F. (1988) -
The reproductive biology of (reproductive behaviour, reproductive cycle and fat body cycle) Acanthodactylus schmidti was examined using specimens obtained from north of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data for this research came both from ecological studies in the field and also histological examinations. The reproductive season (which coincided with the rainy season of the area) was found to commence in October–November and terminated in May. Young lizards were seen in the study area from as early as February and as late as June. There is evidence for the presence of multiple clutches (maximum of three) during each breeding season. It is concluded that the timing and length of the reproductive season and multiple clutches are an important adaptation for this species which inhabits desert regions with unpredictable weather conditions.
Al-Johany, A.M.H. & Spellerberg, I.F. (1989) -
Male lizards had larger home ranges than females and, in general, spring home ranges were greater than winter ones. Overlap in home ranges was not uncommon; extent of overlap varied greatly. Use of burrows by both species was similar but there was a difference in the use of habitats, eg A. schmidti were often seen basking in open areas, but A. boskianus were rarely seen on bare sand away from vegetation.
Al-Oran, R.M. (2000) -
Al-Quran, S. (2009) -
A total number of 70 herpetofaunistic species organised in 3 orders and 18 families were surveyed during a period of two years (2005– 2007) in southern Jordan. The orders are (1) Ophidia has 7 families: Leptotyphlopidae (1 species), Typhlopidae (2 species), Boidae (1 species), Colubdridae (17 species), Atractaspididae (1 species), Elapidae (1 species) and Viperidae (5 species). (2) Sauria has 7 families: Gekkonidae (12 species), Chamaeleonidae (1 species), Agamidae (8 species), Lacertidae (3 species), Sincidae (8 species), Anguidae (1 species), Varanidae (1 species). (3) Testudines has 4 families: Cheloniidae (2 species), Dermochetylidae (1 species), Emydidae (1 species) and Testudinidae (1 species). The species listed were all resident and were mostly found throughout the year. The diversity of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in the study area encouraged the occurrence of the species. The results reinforce the necessity of longterm inventory plannings in order to understand the ecology and the dynamics of herpetofaunistic and other wildlife communities in the study area. The over-increasing of human impact on the existing natural resources in the southern Jordan has threatened the ecology diversity of wildlife species, where the populations of some herpetofaunaistic species (especially frog species) and many reptilian species are declining in diversity status and abundance. The author recommend at the end the improving cooperation of different parties to enhance the public awareness and to implement environmental laws and legislation to conserve the sensitive and rare species of herpetofauna components.
Al-Quran, S. (2010) -
A total of 70 herpetofauna species from 3 Orders and 18 Families were surveyed during a period of two years (2005-2007) in Southern Jordan. The Ophidia included Leptotyphlopidae, Typhlopidae, Boidae, Colubdridae, Atractaspididae, Elapidae and Viperidae. The Sauria included Gekkonidae, Chamaeleonidae, Agamidae, Lacertidae, Sincidae, Anguidae and Varanidae. Testudines included Cheloniidae, Dermochelyidae, Emydidae and Testudinidae. The species listed were all resident and mostly found throughout the year. The diversity of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in the study area likely encouraged species presence. The results reinforce the necessity for long-term inventory planning in order to understand the ecology and the dynamics of herpetofauna and other wildlife communities in the study area. The increasing human impact on the existing natural resources in Southern Jordan has threatened the ecology and diversity of wildlife species to such a degree that populations of anurans and many reptiles are declining in diversity, status and abundance. The author recommends improving cooperation of different parties to enhance public awareness and to implement environmental laws and legislation to conserve sensitive and rare species of herpetofauna.
Al-Sadoon, M.K. (1987) -
Aerobic and anaerobic metabolic rates were determined at temperatures between 20°C and 35°C for the viviparous lizard, Lacerta vivipara. Both parameters were found to be maximal around the preferred body temperature (30°C) with a low thermal temperature dependence above PBT. It is noted that L. vivipara does not need a large rate of anaerobic support and aerobic metabolism could supply the energy needed for activity.
Al-Sadoon, M.K. & Abdo, N.M. (1991) -
The resting metabolic rate-temperature curves of juvenile, sub-adult and adult stages of the lizard Acanthodactylus schmidti were studied at 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35°C. The mass-specific resting metabolic rate equations at different temperatures were calculated. Juveniles and sub-adults were found to have higher rates of O2 consumption than adults. The values for mass regression coefficient «b» proved to be temperature-dependent and ranged from 0.11 at 10°C to 0.58 at 35°C
Al-Sadoon, M.K. & Spellerberg, I.F. (1985) -
Acute oxygen consumption determ inations for both adults and sub-adults of L. vivipara were made over the temperature range 5-30°C during summer and winter. D uring winter dormancy, both adults and sub-adults were found to have a m etabolic rate l ower than t h e metabolic rate of s u m m er animals at each experim ental temperature. This reduction of oxygen consumption in winter lizards can be interpreted as an `inverse compensation` ( Precht`s Type ) pattern of response). It is concluded that this adj ustment can reduce energy costs during the winter period and is a pre-requisite for survival during winte r dormancy.
Oxygen consumption levels and metabolic rate temperature curves of various lizard species from three different climatic regions were examined in relation to ambient temperature. The species used in this research were as follows: Anguis fragilis, Lacerta vivipara, Lacerta agilis (cool temperate species); Blanus cinereus, Podarcis hispanica, Podarcis lilfordi brauni, Podarcis lilfordi lilfordi, Podarcis muralis, Psammodromus algirus, Tarentola mauritanica (warm temperate species); Chalcides ocellatus, Acanthodactylus opheodurus, Acanthodactylus schmidti (desert species). A double chamber volumetric closed system was used to measure the resting oxygen consumption of the lizards. Acute oxygen consumption determinations were made, that is the lizards were not allowed to acclimate to the test temperatures. Interspecific differences in levels of resting oxygen consumption and in the characteristics of the metabolic rate temperature curves were examined in relation to methods of thermoregulation and in relation to the ecology of the respective species. Evidence for `temperature dependent shifts` and `low thermal dependence` was found in the metabolic rate temperature curves of some species. A diminishing Q10 at or below the voluntary body temperatures suggests some degree of metabolic homeostatsis and energy conservation.
The ocellated lizard, Chalcides ocellatus, and the common lizard, Lacerta vivipara, were acclimated to two temperature regimes (10 and 30 degrees C with 12L:12D photoperiod) for 2 weeks. The oxygen consumption rates were measured for both species at temperatures between 5 and 35 degrees C. Cold acclimation was observed in L. vivipara and was in the form of an upward translation of the metabolic rate-temperature curve in comparison to the warm-acclimated lizards (30 degrees C). Chalcides ocellatus showed a response to cold acclimation by decreasing its metabolism only at 10 degrees C.
Al-Sheikhly, O.F. (2001) -
An extensive review on the taxonomic status, occurrence, geographical distribution, and the IUCN conservation status of 122 species/taxa (10 amphibians and 112 reptiles) belonging to 71 genera (8 genera of amphibians and 63 of reptiles) and to 25 families (5 families of amphibians and 20 families of reptiles) was made. As a part of Iraq’s unique biota, the knowledge of the herpetofauna of Iraq is poorly discovered and requires extensive field surveys, further research, and explorations in order to create full frame knowledge of its status and conservation.
Al-Sirhan, A. (2008) -
Al-Yousif, M. & Al-Shawa, T. (1997) -
Isospora acanthodoclyli, new species is described from the feaces of Acanthodoctylus schmidti from Al-Thomama area in the central region of Saudi Arabia. Sporulated oocysts are spherical to subspherical 27.9×25.5 (25 1-29 8×22 7-27.8) μm Oocyst wall is smooth and bilayered Micropyle, oocyst residuum and polar granule absent Sporocysts are ovoid 14.6×11.1 (13.2-15.2×9 1-11.7) μm. Stieda and substiedal bodies are present. Sprozoites are hanana shaped with two spherical refractile globules. Isospora deserti (Finkelman and Paperna, 1994) is redescribed from the feces of Agama pallida in new geographical location. Sporulated oocysts measurement were similar to those reported previously from the same host in Israel (Finkelman and Paperna, 1994). Except for our observation of double layered wall, the oocyst morphology was identical to the original description of I. deserti.
Alagic, A. & Krofel, M. & Lazic, M. & Zagar, A. (2021) -
Organisms face numerous environmental stressors, which can affect developmental precision, including symmetry of various physical characteristics. Fluctuating asymmetry (FA) has therefore been suggested as a simple and efficient tool for assessing sub-lethal stress levels. We analyzed FA in two sympatric lizard species (Iberolacerta horvathi and Podarcis muralis) to determine potential effects of interspecific competition and urbanization, as proxies of stress, taking into account sexual dimorphism and environmental conditions. We sampled 16 syntopic and allotopic populations and used geometric morphometrics of head morphology. We detected significant but mixed effects on the head asymmetry from the environment and the syntopic occurrence that differed between species. P. muralis lizards had more asymmetric heads at higher altitudes, while I. horvathi lizards did at mid altitudes, which may be explained by P. muralis experiencing environmental stress of colder conditions at higher altitudes. The mid-altitude effect on asymmetries in I. horvathi might be explained by a lower availability of stony walls and higher abundance of P. muralis, thus higher competition. The asymmetry of supraciliary granules was affected by the presence of other species. However, lizards from allotopic populations attained larger asymmetries compared to lizards from syntopic populations, which was the opposite from what was expected. There was no effect of urbanization in P. muralis, which could be due to relatively low pollution and habitat degradation in study locations. Overall, we highlighted the possibility of using lizards and FA for bioindication of environmental stressors and especially improved the knowledge gap in the research of biotic stressors.
Alagic, A. & Zagart, A. & Krofel, M. & Lazic, M. (2018) -
We analysed asymmetry in the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) and the Horvath`s rock lizard (Iberolacerta horvathi) from 16 populations in Slovenia and Croatia to understand their connection with potential stress factors: altitude, urbanization and the presence of another species (interspecific competition). We also compared morphological body characteristics between the two species. We used geometric morphometric methods to create landmark coordinates in the photographs of lizards` heads. Modified ANOVAs and an asymmetry index were used to find the differences in four physical characteristics: shape and size of the head, body size and the number of supraciliar scales. We found fluctuating asymmetry in the number of supraciliar scales and the shape of the head in all of our samples. Both species had more asymmetric heads in the intermediate altitudes, which might be connected with lower availability of suitable habitats. Common wall lizards from urban environment did not have more asymmetries compared to those living in natural environments. Contrary to our expectations, we found more asymmetries in allotopic than syntopic populations, indicating limited effect of interspecific interactions. Horvath`s rock lizards had more asymmetric heads, which suggests they might be exposed to greater environmental stress, although genetic effects are also possible, since directional asymmetry was also detected.
Alarcos Izquierdo, G. et al. (2023) -
En Castilla y León, en 2021, la Junta de Castilla y León determina el comienzo del proyecto `Estudio para el seguimiento del estado de conservación de los anfibios y reptiles de Castilla y León`. Se realizó el muestreo dirigido sobre 18 cuadriculas UTM 10x10 km (2 por provincia) seleccionadas sobre hábitats favorables de las 13 ZEC propuestas en el Plan de Monitorización del Estado de Conservación de la Biodiversidad; de los Espacios Protegidos de la Red Natura 2000 y de los Espacios Naturales Protegidos de Castilla y León. La metodología es tomada del programa SARE (Seguimiento de los Anfibios y Reptiles Españoles). Además, dentro de los objetivos, se llevó a cabo la revisión bibliográfica y el muestreo específico para aumentar el conocimiento de tres especies de anfibios de interés comunitario: R. dalmatina, C. lusitanica e I. alpestris. Por un lado, la sequia del año 2022 ha producido malos resultados en los muestreos de anfibios con lo que habría que repetir el esfuerzo realizado sobre las especies prioritarias y por otro se han obtenido abundancias más bajas que el año anterior. En anfibios la especie que alcanzó mayor densidad en la mayoría de las estaciones donde estaba presente resultó ser E. calamita, seguido de L. boscai y P. perezi,. La media de la densidad máxima de anfibios ya metamorfoseados es mayor para los anuros que para los urodelos. La densidad larvaria máxima no varió significativamente por regiones biogeográficas, aunque los anuros fueron ligeramente más abundantes en la región mediterránea que en la atlántica. Las densidades larvarias variaron entre especies, siendo especialmente abundantes en A. obstetricans, P. cultripes, R. parvipalmata y T. pygmeus. Las especies de reptiles más abundantes durante los dos años de muestreo fueron: M. leprosa, I. cyreni, I. martinezricai, E. orbicularis, P. algirus, I. monticola y P. muralis. La densidad máxima varió significativamente entre grupos taxonómicos, con una densidad alta en quelonios, media en saurios, y muy pequeña en ofidios. Para calcular tendencias poblacionales se requieren tres años de seguimiento, hasta que no termine el 2023, no podemos valorar una posible evolución. No obstante hemos obtenido conclusiones metodológicas. Por ejemplo la inclusión de estaciones de muestreo especialmente favorables en zonas limítrofes a las cuadrículas UTM 10x10 ha sido acertada y, de hecho, probablemente hubiera sido todavía más acertado elegir las estaciones de muestreo sin atender a los límites de las cuadriculas. Los resultados corroboran que el área de estudio presenta poblaciones abundantes de anfibios y reptiles, aunque no exentas de problemas y muy variables en importancia según la zona geográfica, destacando la riqueza de las poblaciones de quelonios. También, y como cabría esperar, la biología particular de ofidios y quelonios aconseja la realización de censos específicos para estos grupos con objeto de obtener medidas más realistas de sus abundancias.
Alarcos, G. & Madrigal, J. & Ortiz-Santaliestra, M.E. & Fernández-Benéitez, M.J. & Lizana, M. & Garcia, P. (2009) -
Alatawi, A.S. & Gilbert, F. & Reader, T. (2020) -
Species distribution modelling is a powerful tool that can gives us ecological insights about species distributions, and potential effects of environmental factors, in poorly known habitats. For the first time the distribution of terrestrial reptiles in Saudi Arabia was modelled, and environmental factors that affect their current distribution and richness investigated. Reptiles are a major vertebrate group in Saudi Arabia and protecting them should be a priority for conservation in such an arid environment. Temperature was the most important of eleven predictors. Maximum species richness of reptiles was predicted in the central plateau, north-western borders, and in coastal areas of Saudi Arabia. Overall, the predicted and the observed patterns of species richness followed a similar pattern. Our analysis revealed that large scattered parts of Saudi Arabia are considered under-sampled in terms of sampling efforts of terrestrial reptile species. Our results represent the most comprehensive description of terrestrial reptile diversity distributions and habitat suitability in Saudi Arabia to date.
Albaladejo Robles, G. & Rodriguez Rodriguez, N. (2014) -
Gallotia, es un género endémico de lacértidos de Canarias representado por 7 especies actuales (Arnold, 1973; 2007; Arnold et al., 2007) y de 10 a 13 subespecies de lagartos (Bischoff, 1985; López-Jurado, 1991). Los lagartos gigantes de las islas
Albaladejo, G. (2014) -
Albaladejo, G. (2016) -
Albaladejo, G. & Martin, A. & Sämann, J. & Pfau, B. (2015) -
Die Gesprenkelte Kanareneidechse, Gallotia intermedia, ist eine für Teneriffa endemische Art. Sie kommt in zwei getrennten Populationen vor, eine im Nordwesten der Insel (in den Klippen von Los Gigantes) und eine in der Nähe der Südspitze (Klippen von Guaza). Die Populationen sind jeweils recht klein, 280-460 beziehungsweise ca. 900 Tiere. In beiden Fällen kommen die Tiere von Meereshöhe bis zum Gipfel der Klippen vor, und sie können auch in steilen Schluchten ein paar hundert Meter ins Inselinnere vordringen. Die Eidechsen gelten als vom Aussterben bedroht. Die Hauptbedrohung geht von verwilderten Katzen und Ratten aus.
Albers, H. (1946) -
Albers, H. (1974) -
Albert Koechlin Stiftung (2018) -
Albert Koechlin Stiftung (2019) -
Albert Koechlin Stiftung (2020) -
Alberto Barroso, V. (1998) -
Albinet, S. (2009) -
Au 1er décembre 2009, la base de données herpétologiques de la Société des Sciences Naturelles de Tarn-et-Garonne comptait 2506 données géoréférencées. A partir de ces données, le présent article fait état de la répartition des Reptiles et Amphibiens dans le département de Tarn-et-Garonne et sur le secteur de la Forêt de Grésigne.
Albinet, S. & Muratet, J. & Vacher, J.-P. (2013) -
The city of Toulouse is engaged in a policy of census, conservation and development of urban biodiversity. In this context, a survey of the fauna and flora has been ordered to the consulting firm Biotope. Nineteen sites, chosen by the City of Toulouse for their potential interest, have been surveyed in 2009. A supplementary site was surveyed in 2011. Also, data was gathered from other organisms involved in biodiversity monitoring. This article presents the results of the data collected in the course of this study, with addition of supplementary data from the authors. This study enabled to enhance the current knowledge on the herpetofauna of the county of Toulouse, with more than 600 field data collected, and the discovery of three new taxa. The number of amphibian and reptile species of Toulouse is respectively twelve and ten.
Albornà, P.-X. & Mateos, X. & Carretero, M.A. (2004) -
Alcock, A.W. & Finn, F. (1897) -
Alcover, J.A. (1984) -
The composition of the food of Genetta genetta was studied from 17 groups of droppings with more than 2000 remains of animals and an undeterminated number of plants. On the small island of Cabrera lizards form the main diet. On the other islands mammals (Rodentia) and lizards (Lacertidae, Geckonidae) are the most common prey animals, followed by various insects. Plant material has been found more regularly on Ibiza. Genetta certainly is an euryphagous animal, but this behaviour pattern may alter to a stenophagous phase in certain environments.
Alcover, J.A. (2000) -
Alcover, J.A. & Bover, P. (2002) -
Caves are prone to preserve fossils, mainly of vertebrates. On the Balearic Islands the Pliocene and Quaternary vertebrate fossil record allows to study the faunal composition and faunistical turnover on each island. On the Gymnesic Islands Myotragus balearicus was an endemic fossil Caprinae that lived until human arrival. It was the key species to understand the islands` ecology. The terrestrial vertebrate fauna that lived with Myotragus comprised a dormouse and a shrew, as well as an endemic lizard and the ferreret. The Upper Pleistocene and Holocene vertebrate fauna from the Pityusic Islands was only composed by birds, bats, and a lizard species. The absence of terrestrial mammals in this fauna constitutes the greatest faunistical anomaly in the whole Mediterranean.
Alcover, J.A. & Gosálvez, J. (1988) -
Alcover, J.A. & Mayol, J. (1981) -
In this paper we present a biogeographical analysis of the herpetological biota of the Balearics and Pityusics. Baleaphyne muletensis, Lacerta (Podarcis) lilfordi and Lacerta (Podarcis) pityusensis are considered as palaeoendemics and, plausibly, they colonized our islands during the Messinian. All the remaining species of the present day herpetological biota must have inmigrated to Balearics and Pityusiccs due to the intervention of man.
Alcover, J.A. & Mayol, J. (1982) -
Alcover, J.A. & Moya-Sola, S. & Pons-Moya, J. (1981) -
Aldaba, I. (2016) -
A preliminary checklist of the herpetofauna of Palestine (West Bank and Gaza Strip) Governorates is presented based on records of amphibian and reptile species whose presence has been confirmed in Palestine`s governorates as a result of extensive field expeditions, examination of fixed herpetological collections, literature review, and personal communications from researchers. The paper reports 95 original data on the Palestinian herpetofauna (4 Amphibians and 54 reptiles), deriving from field observations. The herpetofauna of Palestine consists of 58 species belonging to forty six genera and twenty families. Species found in this study either globally or regionally distributed. Majority of species (44 species) fall in the least concern category of the IUCN Red List Category. One species found to be categorized as critically endangered, and another species found to be categorized as endangered. Two Species found to be categorized as threatened, and three Species as vulnerable accordingly.
Aldakhil, M.A. & Silva, P.H.D.H. de (1988) -
This paper describes the habitat of Acanthodactylus schmidti Hass in Saudi Arabia and its present systematic position. The evidence suggests A. schmidti is a valid species. It is adapted to the sand dune habitat, particularly in areas with low scrubby vegetation. Its burrows are dug only among the roots of Hammada elegans .
Alekperov A.M. (1978) -
Алекперов, А.M. (1978) -
Alekperov, A.M. (1971) -
Alekperov, A.M. (1982) -
67 species and subspecies of amphibians and reptiles In the Azerbaldzhan Republic. 18 species and subspecies may be attributed the status of rare and disappearing (26.8%). Of this number, 8 species of amphibians and reptiles have been Included in the `Red Book of Rare Species of Animals and Plants of the USSR and those Endangered with Disappearance`: Pelobates syrlacus. Testudo graeca ibera, Agama ruderata, Lacerta parva, Elaphe longissima, Rhynchocalamus melanocephalus satunini, Vlpera ammodytes transcaucasiana and V. xanthina. The species are seriously endangered in the Azerbaldzhan: Triturus vulgaris, T. cristatus karelini, Bufo bufo verrucosissimus, Phrynocephalus heiloscopus, Mabuya aurata, Ablepharus bivittatus, Elaphe hohenackeri, Psammophis lineolatum, Vipera ursinii and Agkistrodon halys caucasicus.
Aleksandric, D. (2022) -
This bachelor thesis deals with testing the buccal swab method as a non-invasive toxicological method. Environmental pollution due to anthropogenic influence is increasing, therefore more attention is focused on researching the impact of pollution on organisms and the environment. Recent researches try to encroach on nature as little as possible and degrade it in any way, which gives importance to such methods. They are increasingly used in higher groups of vertebrates (mammals), but at the level of herpetofauna it has not yet been investigated. During the research, 16 lizards (five Lacerta agilis and 11 Podarcis muralis) were caught and their swabs were taken. The samples were processed and the amount of protein was determined. Due to the very low values of the protein concentration, the enzyme activity was not determined. The method proved to be unreliable because small fluctuations in the amount of sample significantly affect the result. In addition, high-quality swabbing of lizards is difficult due to the impossibility of turning the stick in order to take the required amount of sample.
Aleksic, I. & Ivanovic, A. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Kalezic, M.L. (2009) -
We found significant variations in the pattern of sexual dimorphism in body size and shape among and within three lacertid species (Podarcis muralis, P. melisellensis and Archaeolacerta oxycephala), which live within a very restricted area (Lake Skadar, Montenegro) and under similar ecological settings. Each species has a specific pattern of size and shape relations between the sexes that proportionally changes with increase in size of the males, contrary to the expectations of Rensch`s rule. Our data do not confirm unequivocally that the level of size differences between the sexes (SSD) is affected by the body shape of two different morphotypes (cylindric vs. flattened body), or by the insularity conditions (island size, distance from mainland and the presence of syntopic lizard species). However, SSD appears to be positively correlated with clutch size at the interspecies level of comparisons.
Aleksic, I. & Ljubisavljevic, K. (2001) -
We studied male and female one-year reproductive, fat body and liver cycle of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis muralis) from the urban and suburban localities of Belgrade. The minimum size at which females attain sexual maturity was between 49.78 and 51.25 mm of the snout-vent length. Vitellogenesis started at the end of March. The size and number of vitellogenic follicles varied considerably during the season. Increase in the female size leads to a significant increase in number but not in size of vitellogenic follicles. Females with oviductal eggs were found from late May to late July. Two clutches with mean size of 3.5±0.31 were laid in 1994. We found a significant positivecorrelationbetween female size and oviductalclutch size, while partial correlationbetween SVL and mean egg volume,as well as between clutch size and mean egg volume was insignificant. Relative oviductal clutch mass had the mean value of 0.17 ± 0.01, and was not correlated with female size. Testicles and epididymides exhibited maximal weight during April-June, and minimum in late July. The increase in male SVL lead to a significant increase in testicular and epididymal mass. Viable spermatozoa were produced from March were the smallest during the mating period while female fat bodies and liver decreased in weight during vitellogenesis. Mass of fat bodies and liver were significantly positively correlated with SVL in both sexes
Aleksic, I. & Tucic, N. (1994) -
We estimated changes in the components of phenotypic variance and covariance among seven metric traits over the first 90 days of growth in the sharp-snouted rock lizard (Lacerta oxycephala). The broad-sense heritability estimated from the data representing mostly size components of the seven morphometic traits over four age periods was about 90%. The average broad-sense heritability for the shape components of the same traits and age periods amounted to about 42%. By using bivariate and multivariate statistical methods, ontogenetic allometry coefficients have been estimated. The average heritability estimated for the bivariate allometric coefficients was about 69%. Genetic correlation structures were highly integrated within each age period and this integration increased from newborn lizards to lizards aged up to 90 days. For absolute measurements, phenotypic correlation structures were less integrated than genetic correlation structures, while for size-free measurements the opposite trend was observed.
Alemany, I. & Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, C. & Jurado-Rivera, J.A. (2022) -
Dietary studies are essential to unravel the functioning of ecosystems and ultimately to understand biodiversity. This task, which at first may seem simple, becomes especially complex in those cases of omnivorous species with highly variable diets. In this regard, the emergence of next-generation DNA sequencing methodologies represents a powerful tool to address the problem. Here we implement a high-throughput metabarcoding strategy based on the analysis of four molecular markers aimed at sequencing both mitochondrial (animal prey) and chloroplast (diet plants) genome fragments from fecal samples of two lizard species endemic to the Balearic Archipelago (Podarcis lilfordi and P. pityusensis) obtained through non-invasive methods. The results allowed for the characterization of their diets with a high degree of taxonomic detail and have contributed a large number of new trophic records. The reported diets are based mainly on the consumption of arthropods, mollusks and plants from a diversity of taxonomic orders, as well as carrion and marine subsidies. Our analyses also reveal inter- and intra-specific differences both in terms of seasonality and geographical distribution of the sampled lizard populations. These molecular findings provide new insights into the trophic interactions of these threatened endemic lizards in their unique and isolated ecosystems.
Alemany, I. & Pérez-Cembranus, A. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Ramon, C. (2023) -
The diets of insular lizards are extremely varied, depending on the different environmental characteristics of each island population. This is particularly evident in the case of the populations of small coastal islets of the Balearic Islands, where the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, is found. The study of trophic ecology carried out by means of traditional tools, such as morphological analysis of feces, has made it possible to detect numerous prey and nutritional elements. However, these methods are clearly insufficient, as some rare groups are not detected. It is also difficult to identify remains of marine subsidies or of foods contributed to these small islands by other predators, such as seabirds. The current study demonstrates the advantages of combining morphological diet analysis with the molecular study of individual feces samples obtained from the same populations. We obtained a greater diversity of prey groups using the combined methodologies, with each method identifying prey items that were not detected using the other method. Particularly, the study of diets at the molecular level identified plant species consumed by lizards that were, occasionally, not identified in morphological analyses. Conversely, the traditional morphological study of an equivalent number of fecal samples allowed for the identification of several prey groups that had not been detected in the molecular study. From this viewpoint, the advantages and disadvantages of each methodology are discussed.
Alemany, I. & Pérez‐Cembranos, A. & Pérez‐Mellado, V. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, C. & Jurado‐Rivera, J.A. (2022) -
Gut microbial communities provide essential functions to their hosts and are known to influence both their ecology and evolution. However, our knowledge of these complex associations is still very limited in reptiles. Here we report the 16S rRNA gene faecal microbiota profiles of two lizard species endemic to the Balearic archipelago (Podarcis lilfordi and P. pityusensis), encompassing their allopatric range of distribution through a noninvasive sampling, as an alternative to previ- ous studies that implied killing specimens of these IUCN endangered and near-threatened species, respectively. Both lizard species showed a faecal microbiome composition consistent with their omnivorous trophic ecology, with a high representa- tion of cellulolytic bacteria taxa. We also identified species-specific core microbiota signatures and retrieved lizard species, islet ascription, and seasonality as the main factors in explaining bacterial community composition. The different Balearic Podarcis populations are characterised by harbouring a high proportion of unique bacterial taxa, thus reinforcing their view as unique and divergent evolutionary entities.
Alexander, G. & Marais, J. (2007) -
Alexander, G.J. & Horne, D. & Hanrahan, S.A. (2002) -
We measured the effects of deltamethrin, a pyrethroid insecticide, on individuals of two lizard species,Meroles suborbitalis and Pedioplanis namaquensis, in enclosures under controlled conditions, and under field conditions. We found significant effects on lizard mortality rates in the enclosure experiments, with most lizards dying within two months of treatment. Our field-based investigation, conducted over a five-month period, revealed significant reductions in abundance of M. suborbitalis (reduced by 52%) and P. namaquensis, (reduced by 72%) one and four weeks after spraying with deltamethrin. At 18 weeks after spraying there was no longer a significant difference in abundance measures between treatment and control plots, due to the invasion of the plots by juveniles.
Alfayate, M.C. & Mora, R. (2005) -
Alfayate, M.C. & Santos, E. & Yanes, C. & Casañas, N. & Viñoly, R. & del Mar Romero-Alemán, M. & Monzón-Mayor, M. (2011) -
Spontaneous regrowth of the axons of retinal ganglion cells (RGC) occurs after unilateral optic nerve transection (ONT) in the lizard Gallotia galloti. We have performed an immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study of the conus papillaris (CP) of this lizard during ontogeny and after ONT in order to characterize its cell subpopulations, innervation and putative blood-brain barrier (BBB) and to evaluate changes occurring throughout regeneration. Proliferating PCNA+ cells were abundant between embryonic stage 33 (E33) and hatching. From E33, we observed Pax2+/GS+ glial cells in the primitive CP, which became increasingly pigmented and vascularised from E35. Conal astrocytes coexpressing Pax2 with vimentin and/or GFAP were identified from E37-E38. GluT-1+/LEA+/Pax2- endothelial cells (ECs) formed a continuous endothelium with tight junctions and luminal and abluminal microfolds. In adults, the peripheral blood vessels showed a thinner calibre, stronger GluT-1 staining and more abundant microfolds than those of the central CP indicating the higher specialization involved during transport within the former. Occasional pericytes, abundant Pax2+ pigment cells, LEA+ microglia/macrophages, unmyelinated Tuj1+ nerve fibres and SV2+ synaptic vesicles were also observed in the perivascular zone. After ONT, the expression of GluT-1 and p75NTR persisted in ECs, suggesting the preservation/early recovery of the BBB. Relevant ultrastructural alterations were observed at 0.5 months postlesion, although, by 3 months, the CP had recovered the ultrastructure of controls indicating tissue recovery. Abnormal newly formed blood vessels had developed in the CP-optic nerve junction. Thus, the CP is a central nervous system structure whose regenerating capacity might be key for the nutritional support of regenerating RGCs in G. galloti.
Alfermann, D. (2004) -
Alfermann, D. (2008) -
Alfermann, D. (2009) -
Alfermann, D. (2010) -
Alfermann, D. (2011) -
Alfermann, D. & Nicolai, H. (2003) -
Im Auftrag des Hessische Dienstleistungszentrums für Landwirtschaft, Gartenbau und Naturschutz (HDLGN) führte die Arbeitsgemeinschaft Amphibien- und Reptilienschutz in Hessen e.V. (AGAR) 2003 eine Erfassung der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) in Hessen durch. Durch Auswertung vorhandener Dokumente und durch eine landesweite Kartierung konnten insgesamt 470 Datensätze zu Zauneidechsensichtungen für den Zeitraum 1998- 2003 erfasst werden. Die Zauneidechse läßt sich im Vergleich zu anderen Reptilienarten verhältnismäßig leicht kartieren. Nicht desto trotz beruhen einige Hinweise auf Zufallsbeobachtungen. Die Auswertung der rezenten Verbreitungsdaten zeigt, dass die Art über fast ganz Hessen verbreitet ist und örtlich sogar relativ häufig angetroffen werden kann. Scheinbare Verbreitungslücken in ansonsten offensichtlich geeigneten Gebieten lassen sich vermutlich durch gezielte Regionalkartierungen schließen. Die Zauneidechse fehlt in Hessen vermutlich lediglich in den bewaldeten Hochlagen von Kellerwald, Rhön, Vogelsberg und Taunus. Die Zauneidechse kann zu den häufigsten Reptilienarten in Hessen gezählt werden. Die Bestandsentwicklung ist aber vermutlich rückläufig, wie dies z. B. auch für Rheinland-Pfalz vermutet wird (HAHN-SIRY 1996). Es wird angeregt, in Hessen zunächst auf der Basis regelmäßiger Präsenz-Absenz-Untersuchungen ein stichprobenartiges Monitoring an ausgewählten Zauneidechsen-Standorten einzuführen. Die Abschätzung von Abnahmetrends müsste über den Verlust gesamter Populationen erfolgen. Jegliche Monitoring-Ansätze sollten eine Komponente zur Bewertung der Habitatentwicklung beinhalten. Methoden und Bewertungsrahmen können provisorisch definiert werden, sollten aber in ihrer endgültigen Form gemeinsam mit anderen Bundesländern erarbeitet werden. Das vorliegende Gutachten enthält einen Steckbrief der Zauneidechse sowie den Entwurf eines Bewertungsrahmens.
Alfermann, D. & Nicolai, H. (2004) -
Algar, A.C. & López-Darias, M. (2016) -
Identifying the factors generating ecomorphological diversity within species can provide a window into the nascent stages of ecological radiation. Sexual dimorphism is an obvious axis of intraspecific morphological diversity that could affect how environmental variation leads to ecological divergence among populations. In this paper we test for sex-specific responses in how environmental variation generates phenotypic diversity within species, using the generalist lizard Gallotia galloti on Tenerife (Canary Islands). We evaluate two hypotheses: the first proposes that different environments have different phenotypic optima, leading to shifts in the positions of populations in morphospace between environments; the second posits that the strength of trait-filtering differs between environments, predicting changes in the volume of morphospace occupied by populations in different environments. We found that intraspecific morphological diversity, provided it is adaptive, arises from both shifts in populations’ position in morphospace and differences in the strength of environmental filtering among environments, especially at high elevations. However, effects were found only in males; morphological diversity of females responded little to environmental variation. These results within G. galloti suggest natural selection is not the sole source of phenotypic diversity across environments, but rather that variation in the strength of, or response to, sexual selection may play an important role in generating morphological diversity in environmentally diverse settings. More generally, disparities in trait–environment relationships among males and females also suggest that ignoring sex differences in studies of trait dispersion and clustering may produce misleading inferences.
Alge, R. (1999) -
Ali-Shtayeh, M.S. & Hamad, A.K. (1997) -
Alibardi, L. (2010) -
The present qualitative autoradiographic analysis aims to present the main features of morphogenesis and growth of claws in reptiles. Lizard embryos treated with tritiated thymidine reveal that epidermal cell proliferation in terminal digits is prevalent in the dorsal side and gives origin to the curved unguis of the claw. Less proliferation occurs in the ventral side of the digit tip where the concave sub-unguis is derived. Adult claws of a turtle show that thymidine-labelled cells are present along most of the epidermis of the claw, especially at the claw tip. Also, injection of tritiated histidine and proline, indicating active protein synthesis, confirm autoradiographic labelling along most of the epidermis of claws, in particular at the apical tip. The present study indicates that proximal matrix regions, as have been described in mammalian nails, are absent in reptiles. This pattern of claw growth probably derives from that of terminal digital scales. In fact reptilian (and avian) claws are formed from a modification of scales, a different condition from that present in mammals.
Alibardi, L. (2012) -
Tail regeneration in lizards depends on the stimulation of growth factors, including Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs). Light and ultrastructural immunolocalization of FGFs was compared between the regenerating tail blastema and the limb where no regeneration occurs. A likely epithelial-mesenchymal transition occurs following amputation in both tail and limb and FGFs are present in the wound epidermis of both organs at 7-14 days post-amputation, and at lower intensity in mesenchymal cells of the blastema. Immunoreactivity for FGFs disappears in the limb wound epidermis after 14 days post-amputation and in the epithelium covering tails induced to form scars, whereas it remains in the apical tail epithelium. These observations suggest that scarring in the limb or the induced scarring in the tail correlate with the disappearance of FGFs. Basic FGF is concentrated in the incomplete basement membrane between the epidermis and the tail blastema where the essential signaling process that allows the continuous growth of the regenerative blastema may occur. The study suggests that the successful regeneration of lizard tail is dependent on the presence of FGFs in the wound epidermis, which are probably released into the blastema.
Alibardi, L. (2013) -
In order to study some of the proteins involved in tissue remodeling and regeneration, the stem cell marker and dynamic cytoskeletal protein nestin have been detected using immunocytochemistry in normal and regenerating tail of lizard. In tissues of the normal tail, nestin is only present in the alpha-layer of scales and in sparse cells of connective tissues. However, during tail regeneration, nestin is more commonly detected in various tissues, especially in the epidermis and regenerating scales, muscles, nerves and in the growing spinal cord. Sporadic nestin immunopositive cells are seen in the regenerating blastema and derived connective tissues. In the epidermis, nestin is expressed in the main sites of cell proliferation located in the apical alpha-keratinocytes of the forming scales, but disappears in beta-cells. In the regenerating muscles, nestin is seen in myoblasts and elongating myotubes, but disappears in mature muscles. Nestin appears in the growing nerves and in a few neurons of the regenerating spinal cord. It is present in the apical ependymal cells and in peripheral nerves and Schwann cells. The dynamic cytoskeletal protein nestin appears to be activated in the main sites of cell proliferation and cytoskeletal remodeling needed for re-epithelization and the differentiation of new scales, muscles and nervous tissue.
Alibardi, L. (2014) -
The lumbar spinal cords of lizards were transected, but after the initial paralysis most lizards recovered un-coordinated movements of hind limbs. At 25-45 days post-lesion about 50% of lizards were capable of walking with a limited coordination. Histological analysis showed that the spinal cord was transected and the ependyma of the central canal formed two enlargements to seal the proximal and distal ends of the severed spinal cord. Glial and few small neurons were formed while bridge axons crossed the gap between the proximal and the distal stumps of the transected spinal cord as was confirmed by retrograde tract-tracing technique. The bridging fibers likely derived from interneurons located in the central and dorsal grey matter of the proximal spinal cord stump suggesting they belong to the local central locomotory pattern generator circuit. The limited recovery of hind limb movements may derive from the regeneration or sprouting of short proprio-spinal axons joining the two stumps of the transected spinal cord. The present observations indicate that the study on spinal cord regeneration in lizards can give insights on the permissive conditions that favor nerve regeneration in amniotes.
Alibardi, L. (2015) -
After lumbar spinal cord transection, lizards recover some un-coordinated movements of the hind limbs including some walking ability. The transected spinal cord was examined using electron microscopy to study the degree of regeneration. A bridge tissue located between the two proximal and distal ends of the transected spinal cord, representing the regenerated cord, was found at 29-45 days post-lesion. The ependyma formed ampullar enlargements but no continuous central canal between the two stumps was re-established. Some cerebro-spinal fluid contacting neurons and peri-ependymal small neurons contacted by few synaptic boutons were found. Pale cells of astrocyte type were also identified. Numerous unmyelinated and sparse myelinated axons in the bridge appear connected to ependymal cells and oligodendrocytes. The origin of these axons remains unknown but previous studies have indicated that at least some of them are derived from interneurons, including those located around the central canal and in the dorsal grey matter of the proximal spinal cord stump. This limited regeneration can explain the recovery of part of the motor activity of the hind limbs in these lizards, possibly through the re-connection across the bridge of the intrinsic circuit of the central locomotory pattern generator.
During tail regeneration in lizards, the epidermis forms new scales comprising a hard beta-layer and a softer alpha-layer. Regenerated scales derive from a controlled folding process of the wound epidermis that gives rise to epidermal pegs where keratinocytes do not invade the dermis. Basal keratinocytes of pegs give rise to suprabasal cells that initially differentiate into a corneous wound epidermis and later in corneous layers of the regenerated scales. The immunodetection of a putative p53/63 protein in the regenerating tail of lizards shows that immunoreactivity is present in the nuclei of basal cells of the epidermis but becomes mainly cytoplasmic in suprabasal and in differentiating keratinocytes. Sparse labelled cells are present in the regenerating blastema, muscles, cartilage, ependyma and nerves of the growing tail. Ultrastructural observations on basal and suprabasal keratinocytes show that the labelling is mainly present in the euchromatin and nucleolus while labelling is more diffuse in the cytoplasm. These observations indicate that the nuclear protein in basal keratinocytes might control their proliferation avoiding an uncontrolled spreading into other tissues of the regenerating tail but that in suprabasal keratinocytes the protein moves from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, a process that might be associated to keratinocyte differentiation.
Cartilage regeneration is massive during tail regeneration in lizards but little is known about cartilage regeneration in other body regions of the skeleton. The recovery capability of injured epiphyses of femur and tibia of lizard knees has been studied by histology and 5BrdU immunohistochemistry in lizards kept at high environmental temperatures. Lizard epiphyses contain a secondary ossified center of variable extension surrounded peripherally by an articular cartilage and basally by columns of chondrocytes that form the mataphyseal or growth plate. After injury of the knee epiphyses, a broad degeneration of the articular cartilage during the first days post-injury is present. However a rapid regeneration of cartilaginous tissue is observed from 7 to 14 days post-injury and by 21 days post-lesions, a large part of the epiphyses are reformed by new cartilage. Labeling with 5BrdU indicates that the proliferating cells are derived from both the surface of the articular cartilage and from the metaphyseal plate, two chondrogenic regions that appear proliferating also in normal, uninjured knees. Chondroblasts proliferate by interstitial multiplication forming isogenous groups with only a scant extracellular matrix that later increases. The high regenerative power of lizard articular cartilage appears related to the permanence of growing cartilaginous centers in the epiphyses of long bones such as those of the knee during adulthood. It is likely that these regions contain resident stem cells that give rise to new chondroblasts of the articular and metaphyseal cartilage during most of the lizard’s lifetime, but can produce an excess of cartilaginous tissues when stimulated by the lesion.
The epiphysis of femur and tibia in the lizard Podarcis muralis can extensively regenerate after injury. The process involves the articular cartilage and metaphyseal (growth) plate after damage. The secondary ossification center present between the articular cartilage and the growth plate is replaced by cartilaginous epiphyses after about one month of regeneration at high temperature. The present study analyzes the origin of the chondrogenic cells from putative stem cells located in the growing centers of the epiphyses. The study is carried out using immunocytochemistry for the detection of 5BrdU-labeled long retaining cells and for the localization of telomerase, an enzyme that indicates stemness. The observations show that putative stem cells retaining 5BrdU and positive for telomerase are present in the superficial articular cartilage and metaphyseal growth plate located in the epiphyses. This observation suggests that these areas represent stem cell niches lasting for most of the lifetime of lizards. In healthy long bones of adult lizards, the addition of new chondrocytes from the stem cells population in the articular cartilage and the metaphyseal growth plate likely allows for slow, continuous longitudinal growth. When the knee is injured in the adult lizard, new populations of chondrocytes actively producing chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan are derived from these stem cells to allow for the formation of completely new cartilaginous epiphyses, possibly anticipating the re-formation of secondary centers in later stages. The study suggests that in this lizard species, the regenerative ability of the epiphyses is a pre-adaptation to the regeneration of the articular cartilage.
Alibardi, L. (2017) -
Tissue regeneration in lizards represents a unique model of regeneration and scarring in amniotes. The tail and limb contain putative stem cells but also dedifferentiating cells contribute to regen- eration. Following tail amputation, inflammation is low and cell proliferation high, leading to regeneration while the intense inflammation in the limb leads to low proliferation and scarring. FGFs stimulate tail and limb regeneration and are present in the wound epidermis and blastema while they disappear in the limb wound epidermis 2–3 weeks postamputation in the scarring outgrowth. FGFs localize in the tail blastema and the apical epidermal peg (AEP), an epidermal microregion that allows tail growth but is absent in the limb. Inflammatory cells invade the limb blastema and wound epidermis, impeding the formation of an AEP. An embryonic program of growth is activated in the tail, dominated by Wnt-positive and -negative regulators of cell prolif- eration and noncoding RNAs, that represent the key regenerative genes. The balanced actions of these regulators likely impede the formation of a tumor in the tail tip. Genes for FACIT and fib- rillar collagens, protease inhibitors, and embryonic keratins are upregulated in the regenerating tail blastema. A strong downregulation of genes for both B and T-lymphocyte activation suggests the regenerating tail blastema is a temporal immune-tolerated organ, whereas a scarring pro- gram is activated in the limb. Wnt inhibitors, pro-inflammatory genes, negative regulators of cell proliferation, downregulation of myogenic genes, proteases, and oxidases favoring scarring are upregulated. The evolution of an efficient immune system may be the main limiting barrier for organ regeneration in amniotes, and the poor regeneration of mammals and birds is associated with the efficiency of their mature immune system. This does not tolerate embryonic antigens formed in reprogrammed embryonic cells (as for neoplastic cells) that are consequently elimi- natedimpedingtheregenerationoflostorgans.
Fibroblast Growth Factors 1-2 (FGF1-2) stimulate tail regeneration in lizards and therefore the distribution of their receptors, FGFR1-2, in the regenerating tail of the lizard. Podarcis muralis has been studied using immunofluorescence and western blotting. Immunoreactive protein bands at 15–16 kDa for FGF1-2 in addition to those at 50–65 kDa are detected in the regenerating epidermis, but weak bands at 35, 45 and 50 kDa appear from the regenerating connective tissues. Strongly immunolabeled bands for FGFR1 at 32, 60, and 80 kDa and less intense for FGFR2 only appear in the regenerating tail. In normal tail epidermis and dermis, higher MW forms are present at 80 and 115–140 kDa, respectively, but they disappear in the regenerating epidermis and dermis where low MW forms of FGFR1-2 are found at 50–70 kDa. Immunolocalization confirms that most FGFR1-2 are present in the wound epidermis, Apical Epidermal Peg, ependymal tube while immunolabeling lowers in regenerating muscles, blastema cells, cartilage and connectives tissues. The likely release of FGFs from the Apical Epidermal Peg and ependyma and the presence of their receptors in these tissues may determine the autocrine stimulation of proliferation and a paracrine stimulation of the blastema cells through their FGF Receptors.
Alibardi, L. (2018) -
Immunodetection of High Mobility Group Proteins (HMGs) in the regenerating tail of lizard indicates activation for cell proliferation. Acta Zoologica (Stockolm). High Mobility Group Proteins (HMGs) are involved in chromatin assembling and control of transcription, especially during development. Transcriptome data indicate that HMGs are abundantly expressed in the early regenerating tail of lizards but their cellular localization remains unknown. Protein bands at 60–62 and 28–30 kDa are detected in western blots, more intense in the regenerating blastema. Immunodetection of HMGs in regenerating tail of the lizard Podarcis muralis indicates that these proteins are mainly localized in tissues where cell proliferation is as active as the apical wound epidermis, ependyma of the spinal cord and pro‐muscle aggregates. Few immunolabelled cells were seen in the regenerating cartilage and growing myomeres or nerves. Only in the wound epidermis labelled cells show a prevalent nuclear labelling while in other tissues a cytoplasmic labelling is prevalent. Only sparse immunolabelled cells are observed in the apical mesenchymal blastema and in the derived connective tissues formed in the mature regions of the regenerating tail, also destined to form adipose cells. The study suggests that the tissues with the highest immunolabelling correspond to those containing more proliferating cells, and that HMGs are mainly activated in these cells to promote cell division for the growth of the new tail.
Regeneration of the tail in lizards suggests that a continuous remodelling process is active in the developing tissues. The present immunological study has detected Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs), previously indicated from a transcriptome study, in the lizard Podarcis muralis. Immunoblots show a main labelled band for MMPs around 68 kDa, possibly a MMP16‐like. Immunofluorescence shows that MMPs are mainly present in the central apical region of the mesenchymal blastema, in the ependyma of regenerating spinal cord, and in the basal layer and basement membrane‐region of the apical wound epidermis. The immune‐labelling decreases or disappears in differentiating tissues present in proximal regions of the regenerating tail such as the epidermis and dermis, muscles, inner connective tissues and in the axial cartilaginous tube. The prevalent localization of MMPs in the central mesenchyme of the blastema indicates a continuous remodelling of the extracellular matrix that actively contributes to the progressive distal growth of the apical blastema into a new tail. The study stresses that in regenerating organs of amniotes, a massive growth can only occur where connective tissues are maintained loose by the continuous action of extracellular matrix proteases in concert with the high production of hyaluronate and consequent tissue hydration.
Lizards are key amniote models for studying organ regeneration. During tail regeneration in lizards, blastemas contain sparse granulocytes, macrophages, and lymphocytes among the prevalent mesenchymal cells. Using transmission electron microscopy to examine scarring blastemas after third and fourth sequential tail amputations, the number of granulocytes, macrophages, and lymphocytes increased at 3–4 weeks in comparison to the first regeneration. An increase in granulocytes and agranulocytes also occurred within a week after blastema cauterization during the process of scarring. Blood at the third and fourth regeneration also showed a significant increase in white blood cells compared with that under normal conditions and at the first regeneration. The extracellular matrix of the scarring blastema, especially after cauterization, was denser than that in the normal blastema and numerous white blood cells and fibroblasts were surrounded by electron-pale, fine fibrinoid material mixed with variable collagen fibrils. In addition to previous studies, the present observations support the hypothesis that an increase in inflammation and immune reactions determine scarring rather than regeneration. These new findings verify that an immune reaction against mesenchymal and epidermal cells of the regenerative blastema is one of the main causes for the failure of organ regeneration in amniotes.
The immunolocalization of the muscle segmental homoeobox protein Msx1‐2 of 27–34 kDa in the regenerating tail blastema of a lizard shows prevalent localization in the apical ependyma of the regenerating spinal cord and less intense labelling in the wound epidermis, in the apical epidermal peg (AEP), and in the regenerating segmental muscles. The AEP is a micro‐region of the regenerating epidermis located at the tail tip of the blastema, likely corresponding to the AEC of the amphibian blastema. No immunolabelling is present in the wound epidermis and scarring blastema of the limb at 18–21 days of regeneration, except for sparse repairing muscles. The presence of a proximal–distal gradient of Msx1‐2 protein, generated from the apical ependyma, is suggested by the intensity of immunolabelling. The AEP and the ependyma are believed to induce and maintain tail regeneration, and this study suggests that Msx1‐2 proteins are components of the signalling system that maintains active growth of the tail blastema. The lack of activation and production of Msx1‐2 protein in the limb are likely due to the intense inflammatory reaction following amputation. This study confirms that, like during regeneration in fishes and amphibians, also the blastema of lizards utilizes common signalling pathways for maintaining regeneration.
Alibardi, L. (2019) -
Ephrin receptors are the most common tyrosine kinase effectors operating during development. Ephrin receptor genes are reported to be up-regulated in the regenerating tail of the Podarcis muralis lizard. Thus, in the current study, we investigated immunolocalization of ephrin receptors in the Podarcis muralis tail during regeneration. Weak immunolabelled bands for ephrin receptors were detected at 15–17 kDa, with a stronger band also detected at 60–65 kDa. Labelled cells and nuclei were seen in the basal layer of the apical wound epidermis and ependyma, two key tissues stimulating tail regeneration. Strong nuclear and cytoplasmic labelling were present in the segmental muscles of the regenerating tail, sparse blood vessels, and perichondrium of regenerating cartilage. The immunolocalization of ephrin receptors in muscle that gives rise to large portions of new tail tissue was correlated with their segmentation. This study suggests that the high localization of ephrin receptors in differentiating epidermis, ependyma, muscle, and cartilaginous cells is connected to the regulation of cell proliferation through the activation of programs for cell differentiation in the proximal regions of the regenerating tail. The lower immunolabelling of ephrin receptors in the apical blastema, where signaling proteins stimulating cell proliferation are instead present, helps maintain the continuous growth of this region.
The present immunohistochemical and western blotting study evaluates the localization of a proto‐cadherin which gene is overexpressed in the regenerating blastema of the lizard Podarcis muralis. Bioinformatic analysis suggests that the antibody recognizes FAT1/2 proteins. Western blot indicates a main band around 50 kDa, a likely fragment derived from the original membrane‐bound large protein. Immunofluorescence shows main labelling in differentiating wound keratinocytes, lower in ependyma, mesenchyme and extracellular matrix of the blastema. The apical epidermal peg contains keratinocytes with labelled peripheral cytoplasm, as confirmed using ultrastructural immunogold that also reveals most labelling located along the cell surface of mesenchymal cells. Myoblasts and differentiating myotubes of regenerating muscles are less intensely labelled. The regenerating cartilaginous tube contains sparse labelled chondroblasts, especially in external and internal perichondria. In regenerating scales, differentiating beta‐cells appear immunofluorescent mainly along the cell perimeter. In more differentiated muscle, cartilage and connective tissues of the new tail, the labelling lowers or disappears. The observations indicate that FAT1/2 proto‐cadherins are present in the apical blastema where an intense remodelling takes place for the growth of the new tail but where also a tight control of cell division and migration is active and may regulate potential tumorigenic process.
Alibardi, L. (2020) -
The microscopic details of the failure of digit regeneration in lizards are not known. The present study reports some histological, ultrastructural and 5BrdU-immunohistochemical observations on healing digits after amputation in the lizard Podarcis muralis. At 7-12 days post-amputation, the stump of digits forms a multilayered wound epidermis covering a loose connective tissue that is invaded by granulocytes, macrophages and lymphocytes. In addition to macrophages also electron-pale multinuclear giant cells are seen underneath or penetrating the wound epidermis while osteoclasts are present in the degrading bone of the severed phalanges. Granulocytes and macrophages invading the wound epidermis indicate the formation of an intra-epidermal immune barrier beneath the scab where numerous bacteria remain entrapped. Immunofluorescence for 5BrdU reveals that few proliferating cells are present in the wound epidermis and the underlying connective tissue at 12 and 32 days post-amputation. Outgrowths of less than 1 mm stop growing and at 32 days they appear scaling. Most of connective cells give rise to fibrocytes and large irregular collagen bundles, as is typical for scar tissue. In conclusion, like for the amputated limb, the intense inflammatory reaction and scarring here described after digit loss appears associated with immune cells invasion.
Background The regenerating blastema of the tail in the lizard Podarcis muralis contains numerous macrophages among the prevalent mesenchymal cells. Some macrophages are phagocytic but others are devoid of phagosomes suggesting that they have other roles aside phagocytosis. Methods The presence of healing macrophages (M2-like) has been tested using autoradiographic, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural studies. Results Autoradiography shows an uptake of tritiated arginine in sparse cells of the blastema and in the regenerating epidermis. Bioinformatics analysis suggests that epitopes for arginase-1 and -2, recognized by the employed antibody, are present in lizards. Immunofluorescence shows sparse arginase immunopositive macrophages in the blastema and few macrophages also in the apical wound epidermis. The ultrastructural study shows that macrophages contain dense secretory granules, most likely inactive lysosomes, and small cytoplasmic pale vesicles. Some of the small vesicles are arginase-positive while immunolabeling is very diffuse in the macrophage cytoplasm. Conclusions The presence of cells incorporating arginine and of arginase 1-positive cells suggests that M2-like macrophages are present among mesenchymal and epidermal cells of the regenerative tail blastema. M2-like macrophages may promote tail regeneration differently from the numerous pro-inflammatory macrophages previously detected in the scarring limb. The presence of M2-like macrophages in addition to hyaluronate, support the hypothesis that the regenerative blastema of the tail in lizards is an immuno-privileged organ where cell proliferation and growth occur without degenerating in a tumorigenic outgrowth.
Alibardi, L. (2021) -
Microscopy suggests that glutathione S-transferase is stored in large granules of myeloid cells in bone marrow and sparse granulocytes of the regenerating tail of lizard. Acta Zoologica (Stockolm). Tail regeneration in lizards occurs after an immune-privileged blastema and is formed where various immunosuppressive cells and biomolecules keep inflammation low. Molecules that limit inflammation may include glutathione and glutathione S-transferase (GST). These molecules reduce reactive oxidative species (ROS) and detoxify extraneous molecules. In the present study, the presence of GST has been analysed in the early phases of tail regeneration in the lizard Podarcis muralis. Using a rabbit polyclonal antibody directed against epitopes present in GST of P. muralis, a light and electron microscopy immunohistochemical and Western blotting study has been done. The study detected proteins of 25 and 32 kDa in pale-medium electron-dense and large granules present in promyelocytes and myelocytes of likely basophilic or eosinophilic fate that is present in the bone marrow of tail vertebrae. These cells are still proliferating and give rise to basophilic or eosinophilic granulocytes that also migrate into the regenerating tail. The enzyme stored in granules of promyelocytes and myelocytes is also localized in the cytoplasm of granulocytes present in the regenerating blastema-cone, basophilic or/and eosinophilic. It is suggested that these granulocytes in the blastema reduce ROS and detoxify potentially inflammatory metabolites, contributing with other molecules to limit inflammation and favour regeneration.
Immunolocalization of cell adhesion molecules during tail regeneration in the lizard Podarcis muralis indicates coordinated control of epithelial differentiation. Acta Zoologica (Stockolm). Lizard epidermis is formed by alternating layers of hard corneous beta-layers and softer and pliable alpha-layers. After tail amputation in the lizard Podarcis muralis, the tail regenerates within a month forming neogenic scales. The differentiation of beta- and alpha-layers in the epidermis has been studied by immunofluorescence detection of cell adhesion molecules. Initially, the thick wound epidermis shows high content in L-CAM and N-CAM in comparison with normal epidermis, including pre-corneous layers where labelling is intense in the cytoplasm and along the keratinocyte perimeter. L- and N-CAMs are also observed in the regenerating ependyma and N-CAM in mesenchymal cells of blastema. The apical regenerating (wound) epidermis often shows nuclear localization in basal layers, especially for E-cadherin, perhaps indicating epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Sections of regenerating scales show the typical renewal phase of the epidermis, with an intensification of L-CAM, N-CAM and general cadherin immunofluorescence in the forming clear-Oberhautchen layers, and in the following beta- and alpha-layers as they start to differentiate from the basal layer. A higher immunolabelling for cell adhesion cadherins suggests that these proteins contribute to form an integrated epidermal unit along the regenerating scales that allows the ordered stratification and shedding of these layers in lizard epidermis.
Alibardi, L. (2022) -
Background The presence of white blood inflammatory cells in injured tissues and their effect on the process of organ regeneration in lizards has been assessed on tail, limb and digits. Methods The present immunohistochemical survey analyzes the occurrence of CD68-labeled cells in lizard organs uncapable of regenerating tissues that exhibit strong inflammatory activity. Results This marker mainly identifies macrophages and mast cells present in large number within tissues of injured limbs and digits. Also a high inflammation is associated with amputated tails that do not regenerate, derived from cauterization or infection of tissues of the tail stump. In the healing limbs and fingers at 12–20 days post-amputation, numerous CD68-labeled cells, most likely macrophages, are seen among superficial connective tissues and injured muscles and bones. These cells likely stimulate and give rise to scarring tissues and no regeneration of limb and fingers occurs. In the cauterized or in the infected tail stump a strong accumulation of CD68-positive mast cells and macrophages is observed, where they likely evoke epidermal coagulation, formation of scarring connective tissue, and loss of regeneration. Conclusions The present observations provide further cytological evidence that support the notion that a strong and lasting inflammatory condition impedes organ regeneration in specifically lizards and, more generally other vertebrates as well.
Tail regeneration in lizards is an outstanding and unique postembryonic morphogenetic process. This developmental process is regulated by poorly known factors, but recent studies have suggested that it derives from a balanced activity between oncoproteins and tumor suppressors. Transcriptome and expression data have indicated that arhgap28 and retinoblastoma proteins are among the main tumor suppressors activated during tail regeneration. However, their cellular localization is not known. Therefore, in the present immunohistochemical study, two proteins have been detected in various tissues at the beginning of their differentiation. Both proteins are present especially in the new scales, axial cartilage, and muscle bundles of the regenerating tail, the main tissues forming the new tail. Sparse or occasionally labeled cells are observed in the blastema, but intense labeling is seen in the basal layers of the wound (regenerating) epidermis and in external differentiating epidermal layers. Numerous keratinocytes also show a nuclear localization for both proteins, suggesting that the latter may activate a gene program for tissue differentiation after the inhibition of cell multiplication. Based on microscopic, molecular, experimental, and in vitro studies, a hypothesis on the “inhibition of contact” among the apical cells of the blastema and those of proximal differentiating tissues is proposed to explain the permanence of an active blastema only at the apex of the regenerating tail without tail growth can degenerate into a tumorigenic outgrowth.
Alibardi, L. & Borsetti, F. (2019) -
Immunolabelling for RhoV and actin in early regenerating tail of the lizard Podarcis muralis suggests involvement in epithelial and mesenchymal cell motility. Acta Zoologica, Stockolm. Immunolabelling for RhoV and α‐smooth muscle actin, genes that are highly expressed in the regenerating tail of lizards, shows that a main protein band immunolabelled for RhoV is seen at 65–70 kDa and only a weak band at 22–24 kDa. This suggests that alteration occurred during extraction or is due to biochemical processing of the protein. RhoV immunolabelled cells are present in apical and proximal regenerating epidermis during scale neogenesis. The apical ependyma is labelled but labelling fades and disappears in medial‐proximal regions, near the original spinal cord. Differentiating muscles and cartilage show low labelling. Ultrastructural immunolocalization of RhoV in wound keratinocytes shows labelling in regions containing actin filaments that associate with tonofilaments and desmosomes while a low labelling is present in mesenchymal cells. Filamentous regions of the nucleus, nuclear membrane and the nucleolus are immune‐labelled for RhoV. Similar localization is seen for actin that is present along the perimeters of keratinocytes associated with tonofilaments, in elongations of mesenchymal cells, in muscle satellite cells, endothelial and pericytes of blood vessels. It is suggested that RhoV and actin are associated in the dynamic cytoskeleton needed for the movements of epidermal and mesenchymal cells and in endothelial cells forming new blood vessels.
Alibardi, L. & Maurizii, M. & Taddei, C. (2001) -
The distribution of three anti-cytokeratin (-keratin) antibodies (AE1, AE2, AE3) in the epidermis of a lizard has been studied by immunocytochemistry at light and electron microscope and by immunoblot analysis. This study shows the expression of different keratins in the resting stage epidermis of the lizard Podarcis sicula. In this stage the epidermis has an external -layer, an underlying -layer, some layers of living suprabasal cells and a basal stratum germinativum. The AE1 antibody is localized in the basal and suprabasal cells only in the outer scale surface, but is absent from the inner surface, the hinge region and from the keratinized - and -layers. The AE2 antibody is mainly localized at the level of the hinge region and of the -layer and gives a lower reaction in the -layer. The AE3 antibody is mainly localized in basal and suprabasal cells, lower in the -layer, and absent from the -layer. The electron microscope shows that all the three antibodies immunolabel cytoplasmic fibrillar structures in the deep -layers and that AE2 and AE3 antibodies label small electron-dense areas in the external dense -layer within the electron-lucid matrix. Immunoblot analysis of the keratins extracted and separated by gel electrophoresis demonstrates the presence of a band of high molecular weight (67-68 kDa) positive to all three antibodies. In addition AE1 antibody recognizes a 44-45 kDa band and a 57-58 kDa band, AE2 recognizes a 60-61 kDa band, and AE3 recognizes a 47 kDa and a 56-57 kDa band. The localization of the keratins identified by immunoblot analysis in the epithelial layers is discussed taking in account the immunolabeling at light and electron microscope. The present study suggests that also in the normal epidermis of this reptiles, in both the - and the -layer, the molecular masses of keratins increase from the basal to the keratinized layers, a phenomenon which is generalized to adult and embryonic amniotes epidermis.
Alibardi, L. & Maurizii, M.G. & Taddei, C. (2000) -
Using immunocytochemistry at light- and electron-microscope levels, we studied the distribution of three monoclonal antibodies (AE1, AE2, AE3) specific for mammalian α-keratins in regenerating lizard epidermis. We also characterized the keratins expressed during this process by immunoblotting after electrophoretic separation. The AE1 antibody is localized in the basal and suprabasal layers of prescaling and scaling epidermis. During the first stages of scale neogenesis, the AE1 antibody also marks the differentiating oberhautchen and β-layer, but it disappears from these layers as they mature. This antibody does not stain the prekeratinized and keratinized outermost layers in the hinge region. The AE2 antibody labels the superficial wound epidermis, prekeratinizing and keratinized β- and α-layers, but not basal and suprabasal cells. The AE3 antibody labels all living and keratinized epidermal layers, although AE3 immunoreactivity decreases and disappears as the β-layer matures. The ultrastructural study shows that the AE2 and AE3, but not the AE1, antibodies specifically label small electron-dense areas within the β-layer, suggesting retention of α-keratins. In the stages of tail regeneration examined, immunoblotting with the three antibodies used for the immunolocalization gives a pattern similar to that of the normal epidermis, except distally, where the process of scale differentiation begins. In this region, in addition to the keratin forms discovered in the normal and in proximal regenerating epidermis, an intense low molecular weight band at 40–41 kDa, positive to all three antibodies, is clearly detectable. Furthermore, in the distal region AE1 and AE3 antibodies, but not the AE2, recognize a weak band at 77–78 kDa not present in the normal and proximal epidermis. The localization and the possible role of the different keratins in the regenerating epidermis is discussed.
Alibardi, L. & Miolo, V. (1990) -
During the regeneration of lizard tail, nerves sprouting from ganglia and the spinal cord invade the blastema as far as the apical epidermis. Electron microscopical observations reveal axons storing dense granules (dg) and dense core vesicles (dcv) which are concentrated in nerve terminals or in axoplasmatic regions. In the regenerating spinal cord (SC) these terminals resemble aminergic-peptidergic endings and grow as far as the distal portion of the SC, which is made up of irregularly arranged ependymal cells. Some axons storing dcv contact blastematic cells and other nerve terminals show a plasma membrane incomplete or broken. Whether this latter aspect is due to fixation artifacts or physiological rupture is unknown. Nerves containing dcv and a few dg also originate from spinal ganglia innervating the regenerating tail. The accumulation of material into these endings is probably slow and a possible trophic influence on the regeneration of lizard tail is discussed.
Alibardi, L. & Sala, M. (1981) -
Alkan, B. (1963) -
Vorarbeiten über Schädlingsfauna der Kriehtieren (Reptilien) in der Türkei -- Die Kriehtiere leben meistens auf dem Lande. Viele sind Insektenfresser. Zahlreiche Arten nehmen tierische und pflanzliche, oder ausschliesslich pflanzliche Nahrung zu sich. Ihre wirtschaftliche Schäden an Kulturpflanzen sind gelegentlich. Die besonderen Arten von Pflanzenschädlingen, die in der Türkei leben, sind noch nicht genugend untersucht. Darüber findet man heute sehr wenige und nur zerstreute Veröffentlichungen und Beobachtungen in der Hand. In dieser Vorarbeit sind die bisheute bekannten pflanzenschädliche Arten von Kriehtieren bzw. Eidechsen und Schildkröten, in ihren Verbreitungsgebieten und ihre Nährpflanzen zum erstenmale zusammengestellt. Selbstverstândlioh sind darüber weitere und vertiefte Beobachtungen erforderlich. -- Die Arten der Eidechsen: Agama stellio L. (Schleuderschwanz). Verbreitung: Anatolien, Ankara (Ebner 1919, Kerville 1939). Nährpflanzen: Die süssen Früchten wie Feigen, Pfirsiche, Zuckermelonen, und andere Früohte, Salate, Lattichsalate.,- Agama stellio stellio L. Verbreitung: Süd - und west Türkei, Amasya, Nigde, Diyarbakir, Kayseri, Çanakkale (Bodenheimer 1946 und andere). Nährpflanzen: Wie bei Agama stellio L. -- Agama ruderata Oliv. (Ankara, Kerville 1939), Agama ruderata ruderata Oliv. Ankara, Eregli (Konya), Mardin, Nusaybin, Gaziantep und Malatya (Bodenheimer 1946), Eine Probe in Eregli (Konya) wurde vom Verfasser gefunden. Nährpflanzen: Noch nicht festgestellt, vielleicht wie bei Agama stellio L. -- Lacerta viridis Laur. var. major D. und B. (Srnaragdeidechse). Verbreitung: Westanatolien, andere Fundorte sind nicht bekannt. Nährpflanzen: Weintrauben, Feigen, Kirchen und andere süsse Früchten. Note: Noch mehrere Lacerta Arten wurden in der Türkei gefunden, ob sie pflanzliche Nahrung zu sich nehmen oder nicht, ist unklar. -- Die Arten der Schildkröten. Testudo graeca L. (Grichische Schildkröte). Verbreitung: Fast in allen Geblieten der Türkei. Nährpflanzen: Steppenpflanzen, junges Getreide - Baumwolle -Luzerne - Pflanzen, Gemüsen, Weintrauben, Blätter und Juruge Triebe von vielen jungen Pflanzen. -- Emys orbicularis L. (Surnpf-oder Europäische Schildkröte). Verbreuitung: Ankara (Kerville 1939), Manisa, Bursa, Kayseri, Eski¬sehir, Adapazari, Turhal (Bodenheimer 1946 und andere). Nährpflanzen: Wedntrauben, Zucker-und Wassermelonen. - Note: Noch andere Arten der Schâldknöten leben auch in der Türkei, aber ihre Nahrung ist nicht bekannt.
Allain, S.J.R. & Bateman, T.C.B. (2018) -
Allain, S.J.R. & Clemens, D.J. & Thomas, O. (2023) -
Over the years, the terminology in regards to the abnormal coloration of reptiles and amphibians hasbecome more complex with not all authors agreeing on the same terms. This, combined with the diversity of chromatic abnormalities, has led to some confusion, particularly between hobbyists and biologists who tend to use different jargon. In this review, we aim to address this issue by explaining how color within the skin of amphibians and reptiles arises, and evaluating which terminology should be used. This information is then used to explore each of the known chromatic abnormalities observed in amphibians and reptiles before summarizing the known cases from the British Isles. Finally, we also present a number of previously unrecorded instances of color abnormalities in the hope that it promotes further examples to be recorded. Given their rarity in nature, color abnormalities are likely to have a significant impact on the fitness of animals displaying them. Despite our efforts to summarize all the available information on color abnormalities in the herpetofauna of the British Isles, there are still gaps in our knowledge. These could be filled through the effort of a national recording scheme aimed at abnormally colored individuals.
Allain, S.J.R. & Mattea, R.G. (2019) -
Allam, A.A. & Abo-Eleneen, R.E. & Othman, S.I. (2017) -
In the present study, it was hypothesized that micromorphology of the surface of many lizard scales appears to mimic the topography of the habitat in which they live. Many authors have suggested that the microstructure of the superficial surface of scales have undergone important adaptations and have functional value in lizards. In this study, we investigated the variation and adaptation of the micromorphology and microstructure of the superficial surface of the dorsal and ventral scales from the mid-body region of Stellagama stellio (Agamidae), Stenodactylus petrii (Gekkonidae), Acanthodactylus boskianus (Lacertidae), Eumeces schneideri (Scincidae), Trachylepis quinquetaeniata (Scincidae), Scincus scincus (Scincidae), Varanus griseus (Varanidae), Chameleo chameleon (Chamaeleonidae). Skin specimens were prepared and analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. The dorsal and ventral scale surfaces had microstructure in the studied species and they exhibited unique patterns that somewhat resembled the topography of the microhabitats in which they lived. Similarity was detected in the three most related species, those having a common family, Scincidae. Ecomorphological relationships were detected between the dorsal and ventral scale microstructures and microhabitats. We conclude that environmental factors have observable influences on the microstructure of lizard scales.
Allan, G.M. & Prelypchan, C.J. & Gregory, P.T. (2006) -
Introduced species represent one of the greatest potential threats to persistence of native species. Therefore, it is important to understand the ecology of introduced species in order to develop appropriate mitigation strategies if required. In this study, using data collected in 1992-1993, we describe some fundamental population attributes of common wall lizards, Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768), of Italian origin, introduced near Victoria, British Columbia, in the early 1970s. Male and female wall lizards reached similar snout-vent lengths, but males had relatively longer tails and were heavier. However, when gravid, females attained a body mass similar to that of males of equal snout-vent length. We found gravid females in all months from May to July, inclusive, but hatchlings did not appear in the field before late July. Growth rate was inversely related to body size, and lizards probably reached maturity in their second full summer. Larger lizards were moiré likely than smaller lizards to have experienced tail loss prior to capture, but the probability of tail loss upon capture was higher for smaller lizards than for adults. Our results suggest no fundamental differences in population characteristics between P. muralis on southern Vancouver Island and population at sites within the species natural range in Europe. Whether P. muralis on Vancouver Island is a threat to the native northern alligator lizard, Elgaria coerulea (Wiegmann, 1828), remains an open question.
Allan, M. & Prelypchan, C.J. & Gregory, P.T. & Waye, H.L. (1993) -
Allen, A. (1971) -
Allen, A. (1973) -
Allen, A. (1975) -
Almaca, C. (1971) -
Die landgebundenen Wirbeltiere des festländischen Iberiens (Süßwasserfische, Amphibien, Reptilien mit Ausnahme der Meeresschildkröten, Säugetiere mit Ausnahme der Chiroptera, Pinnipedia und Cetacea) bilden, wie im einzelnen gezeigt wird, in ihrer Gesamtheit eine besondere faunistische Einheit: ungefähr die Hälfte der Formen (Spezies oder Subspezies) ist endemisch; das gilt für 73 % der echten Süßwasserfische, 47 % der Amphibien, 36 % der Reptilien und 53 % der Säugetiere. Die geographische Isolierung durch die Pyrenäen und das Mittelmeer ist gewiß die Hauptursache für die Entwicklung einer so eigenartigen Fauna, aber auch andere Faktoren (die sehr verschiedenen Klimate und Biotope innerhalb Iberiens, der im Vergleich mit anderen Gebieten Europas geringere Einfluß der Vereisungen usw. haben sicher ebenfalls eine sehr wichtige Rolle gespielt. Acanthodactylus erythrurus erythrurus, Algyroides hidalgoi, Algyroides marchi marchi, Algyroides marchi niethammeri, Lacerta agilis agilis, Lacerta hispanica hispanica, Lacerta hispanica bocagei, Lacerta hispanica vaucheri, Lacerta lepida lepida, Lacerta lepida nevadensis, Lacerta monticola monticola, Lacerta monticola cantabrica, Lacerta monticola cyreni, Lacerta schreiberi, Lacerta viridis viridis, Lacerta vivipara, Psammodromus algirus algirus, Psammodromus hispanicus hispanicus, Psammodromus hispanicus edwardsianus.
Almasri, A. (2000) -
Almeida, A.P. & Rosa, H.D. & Paulo, O.S. & Crespo, E.G. (2002) -
The genetic structure and relationships of five populations of the Iberian group of Iberolacerta (sensuArribas 1999) were analysed by protein electrophoresis. In this study we confirmed the differentiation between the group of populations from Galicia/Cantabrian/S. Estrela versus the group of populations from de Spanish Central System, Gredos and Guadarrama that are included in the two different species by Arribas (Herpetozoa 9(1/2), 31–56, 1996; Russian J. Herpetol. 6, 1–22, 1999), Iberolacerta (I.) monticola and Iberolacerta (I.) cyreni, respectively. However, the differentiation level is not high enough to clearly prove their specific discrimination. On the other hand, we did not confirm the subspecific discrimination of the Gredos –Iberolacerta (I.) cyreni castiliana, and Guadarrama –Iberolacerta (I.) cyreni cyreni populations, proposed by Arribas (1996). These two populations are genetically almost homogeneous. Interestingly, we found an unexpected high genetic similarity between the Galician and the Serra da Estrela populations, presently included into two different subspecies, Iberolacerta (I.) monticola cantabrica and Iberolacerta (I.) monticola monticola, respectively. Their genetic similarity is even higher than that between the populations of Galicia and the Cantabrian Mountains, which are both included in the same subspecies, cantabrica. This result suggests that the populations of Galicia and Serra da Estrela would have maintained contacts, possibly through the north of Portugal, until relatively recent times. Their separation is thus probably post-glacial. Some evidence also points to the existence of relatively recent contacts between the population of Serra da Estrela and those of the Central System, particularly, with the neighbouring Peña de Francia population. With the cautions imposed by the reduced sample size of our analysis, the significant differentiation of the populations from Galicia and the Cantabrian Mountains allow us to suggest that this last population may not be the result of a recent expansion of the Galician population as Arribas (1996) suggests, but, more likely, the result of a fragmentation process of a more ancient and wider north-eastern distribution area of this group of rock-lizards.
Almutairi, M.S. (2014) -
The Arabian Peninsula is an interesting area for research. This area has a complex geological history, a range of habitats and a number of known endemic species. However, to date, this area and its associated biodiversity has been poorly studied. The aims of this study were to investigate the phylogeography and to determine the species delimitation of a selected number of lizard species from the Arabian Peninsula. The phylogeography of fourteen co-distributed lizard species occurring within the Arabian Peninsula was investigated using a multispecies tree in STAR BEAST (*BEAST) to determine the divergence times and spatial patterns of the co-distributed species. Several common spatial and temporal patterns were identified among the different Arabian Peninsula species. The common patterns indicated close phylogeographic relationships between different regions and species. Importantly, these common patterns also corresponded to historical biogeographic processes. A wide range of ecological habitats was also detected for these groups of lizards and this was assumed to play a major role in establishing the current diversity and distribution patterns. In addition to detecting common patterns, this study also provided valuable information about the unique phylogeographical patterns shown by some of the studied species. Finally, this study also revealed patterns that provided strong evidence for the presence of multiple cryptic species within a species complex. Species delimitation methods were subsequently applied to two species that had previously demonstrated the potential for cryptic species within Acanthodactylus boskianus and A. opheodurus. Using a combined approach of genetic distance, allele networks, and Bayesian Phylogenetic and Phylogeography (BPP) analysis, this study was able to identify candidate species within A. boskianus and A. opheodurus. The mitochondrial DNA tree revealed potential candidate clades within these two species. These candidate species clades were then further examined at two nuclear loci and congruence was observed between the two markers for these clades. This congruence between mitochondrial and nuclear loci strongly indicates the discovery of several new species within A. boskianus and A. opheodurus, however further research is needed to confirm this discovery. In conclusion, this study provides the most detailed insight - to date - on the phylogeography and species delimitation of Arabian Peninsula lizards and provides the most up to date assessment of the diversity of the lizards in this important region.
Aloise, G. & Cagnin, M. & Luiselli, L. (2015) -
Soricid mammals and lizards are small-sized, insectivorous vertebrates that are widespread and abundant in Mediterranean habitats. Because of their broad sympatry and their diet similarity, these taxa have been suspected to compete for food. Therefore, co-occurrence patterns between these taxa were studied at 72 sites in southern Italy by means of trapping methods. The assemblages were quite distinct depending on the site bioclimate: for the Lacertidae, Podarcis siculus dominated in the thermo-Mediterranean sites and P. muralisin the temperate sites, whereas, for the soricids, Suncus etruscusand two species of Crocidurawere dominant in thermo-Mediterranean sites and three Sorexspecies in the temperate sites. The mean number of captured soricids was statistically higher in the temperate sites, and was positively related to the first component of a Principal Component Analysis summarizing three collinear study site variables (elevation, mean annual temperature, annual rainfall), the reverse being true for lizards. Co-occurrence analysis revealed that a non-segregated structure was present in the dataset, whereas a randomization algorithm showed that the assemblage of small mammals and lizards was non-randomly structured, with the frequency distribution of shrews being non-independent by site from that of lizards. However, when we divided the sites by their bioclimatic regime (thermo-Mediterranean versus temperate), the non-randomness of the community structure disappeared, thus demonstrating that interspecific competition was not the main force driving these assemblages of species. The number of shrews captured in each sampling site was however significantly negatively related to the number of lizards, this pattern being linked to the bioclimate of the various sampling sites. Overall, our data indicated that the assemblage of shrews and lizards was likely regulated essentially by local climate and not by synecological (interspecific competition) dynamics.
Aloise, G. & Cagnin, M. & Sperone, E. & Tripepi, S. (2004) -
Alomar, M.N. (2015) -
Poikilothermic animals show a strong dependence on environmental temperature. However, they are able to adjust their body temperature through behavioral and partial physiological thermoregulatory adjustments. In this way, they optimize the heat loss and gains to keep the body within a range of thermal preference and to allow maximizing their physiological efficiency. A group of Gallotia galloti lizards were placed in a terrarium with a wide thermal variation in different regions. In this way, the animals were able to select the most thermally comfortable region. However, they should leave this region to get food, which was placed in a cold region, with a temperature far away from the comfort temperature. The time-lapse thermographic cinematography recordings allowed recording the environmental and body temperatures as well as the variations in different parts of the animal body in function to the temperature of the environment. In this way, it was found that the cephalic temperature was maintained within the 33 – 37 range in spite of occasional visits, the coldest spot in the terrarium at 13ºC to get food. Most frequently, the animals preferred to stay in 25-30ºC regions, while maintaining a cephalic temperature of up to 10ºC higher.
Aloufi, A. & Al Zayer, M. & Amr, Z.S. (2023) -
Thirty-two species of amphibians and reptiles were reported during this study, including 16 families (Ranidae, Geoemydidae, Cheloniidae, Gekkonidae, Sphaerodactylidae, Phyllodactylidae, Agamidae, Lacertidae, Scincidae, Varanidae, Trogonophidae, Boidae, Colubridae, Psammophiidae, Viperidae and Elapidae). Family Geckkonidae was represented by the highest number of species (8), followed by families Agamidae and Scincidae (four species for each). Trachylepis tessellata is reported for the first time to the herpetofauna of Saudi Arabia.
Aloufi, A.A. & Amr, Z.S. (2015) -
A total of 34 species of amphibians and reptiles are reported from Tabuk Province, Saudi Arabia. They include one species of amphibian and 33 reptiles belonging to 12 families (cheloniidae, Gekkonidae, Agamidae, chamaeleonidae, lacertidae, Scincidae, Varanidae, Trogonophidae, Boidae, colubridae, Viperidae and elapidae). Three species of reptiles are new to the herpetofauna of Saudi Arabia: Hemidactylus mendiae, Pseudotrapelus aqabensis and Phoenicolacerta kulzeri ssp.. Additional distributional data for the reptiles of the Province of Tabuk expand the known distribution for several Arabian species.
Aloufi, A.A. & Amr, Z.S. & Abu Baker, M.A. (2021) -
A total of 44 species of amphibians and reptiles are reported from Al Madinah Al Munawwarah Province, Saudi Arabia. They include two species of amphibian in two families (Bufonidae and Dicroglossidae) and 42 reptiles belonging to 16 families (Agamidae, Boidae, Chamaeleonidae, Colubridae, Elapidae, Gekkonidae, Lacertidae, Lamprophiidae, Leptotyphlopidae, Phyllodactylidae, Psammophiidae, Scincidae, Sphaerodactylidae, Varanidae, Typhlopidae, and Viperidae). Platyceps sinai, Psammophis sibilans, Rhynchocalamus melanocephalus, are recorded for the first time to the herpetofauna of Saudi Arabia. Range expansion for Euphlyctis ehrenbergii and Acanthocercus adramitanus to northern Saudi Arabia is reported. Our records expand the known distribution range of the Arabian Cobra, Naja arabica, further northwest
Aloufi, A.A. & Amr, Z.S. & Abu Baker, M.A. (2022) -
Seventeen (17) and twenty-two (22) species of terrestrial reptiles were recorded from ‘Uruq Bani Ma’arid and Harat al Harrah protected areas, respectively. Eight sites in ‘Uruq Bani Ma’arid and eleven sites in Harat al Harrah were surveyed for the presence of reptiles. A comparison between the two protected areas’ reptile fauna is provided, with brief descriptions of their habitat preferences. Uromastyx aegyptia, categorised by the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable, occurs in both protected areas. Ptyodactylus puiseuxi is a new species record for the herpetofauna of Saudi Arabia. This study indicates the importance of protected areas within Saudi Arabia for the conservation of reptile biodiversity, the need for extension of the protected area network and additional biodiversity surveys in other regions. Studies on species richness, biology and population size for endangered species should be a priority for future studies.
Alpagut-Keskin, N. & Çetin-Doğan, T. (2008) -
Anatolacerta has included 3 species and one of them is Anatololacerta anatolica (Werner 1900). This species has two distinct subspecies respectively; Anatololacerta anatolica anatolica and Anatololacerta anatolica aegaea (Eiselt and Schmidtler 1987). The systematic of Anatololacerta based on morphology and which is included species has not been studied karyotypically. Therefore we aimed to report the karyotype of specimens and obtained differences from 4 different populations of Anatololacerta anatolica subspecies which is distributed in Western Anatolia. The result showed that two subspecies possess 2N = 38 uniarmed (subtelocentric) chromosomes that is 36 macrochromosomes and 2 microchromosomes.Also meiotic plates showed that 19 bilavents.
Alqahtani, A.R.M. (2018) -
Tathleeth governorate in Aseer region of southwestern Saudi Arabia has been surveyed for 22 lizard species belonging to 6 families throughout three years started from 2015. A total of 412 specimens of these lizards were encountered and identified. Gekkonidae represented the major family inhabiting the region comprising more than 50% of the collected lizards. Agamidae was represented by 5 species comprising more than 23% of the recorded lizards. The other four families (Lacertidae, Scincidae, Chamaeleonidae and Varanidae) comprised approximately 20% of all the collected lizards. The current survey could be used as conservational clue for the herpetofauna of Tathleeth.
Alshammari, A.M. & Ibrahim, A.A. (2015) -
We surveyed the historical Faid Hema, Ha’il region in Saudi Arabia and identified 22 species of reptiles (17 lizards and five snakes). We recorded for the first time nine reptiles (six lizards and three snakes) in the Faid Hema. Of these, one lizard, Mesalina adramitana, and two snakes, Cerastes gasperetti and Walterinessia aegyptia, were reported for the first time for the entire Ha`il region. We recorded 50% of all species for the entire study area at one site, which may be because it had three different habitat types near it (the Jannin mountain, soft soil, and firm, sandy soil). The next highest number of species we found was at an open site with firm, sandy soils and with gravel (containing 45.5% of the total species recorded), followed by a site that contained only sand (36.4% of the total). The lowest number of species was reported at an agricultural site, with only 13.6% of the total species found.
Altaba, C.R. (2001) -
Altner, H. & Müller, W. & Brachen, I. (1970) -
There are three types of cells in the vomero-nasal organ of Lacerta sicula and Natrix natrix: receptor cells, supporting cells and basal cells. The receptor cells bear microvilli and no cilia. In Lacerta centrioles are lacking, indicating that the ciliary apparatus can have no essential significance in the transducer process. In Natrix centrioles occur in the deeper dendritic region. The structural constituents of the dendrites are mitochondria, microtubules and characteristic vesicles the properties of which are described. The perikarya which have uniform structure send off axons of about 0.2 μ diameter. The supporting cells show signs of a very moderate secretory activity, which is different among the species investigated. The microvilli of the supporting cells are not distinguishable from those of the receptor cells. The dendrites of the latter are completely isolated by the apical parts of the supporting cells. The sheet-like processes of the supporting cells contain strands of tonofilaments and do not cover the perikarya of the receptor cells completely. Thus adjacent sensory cells or dendrites and sensory cells are separated among themselves only by the normal intercellular space. The ratio of sensory cells to supporting cells is about 7∶1. The basal cells resemble the supporting cells and replace these in the lower portion of the epithelium. The typical cellular junctions between sensory cells and supporting cells are described. There are no true tight junctions in the vomero-nasal sensory epithelium, and they are most probably absent from the nasal mucosa too. This absence would seem to indicate special conditions for cellular communication and the accessibility of the intercellular space for certain molecules. There is no sign of regeneration of sensory cells. Both immature blastema cells and degenerating receptor cells are not discernible.
Altunisic, A. & Gül, C. & Özdemir, N. & Tosunoglu, M. & Ergül, T. (2013) -
We studied, for the first time, the age structure of Eremias strauchi strauchi (Kessler, 1878) from a sample (18 adults) of a population living in the vicinity of Iğdır (eastern Turkey) using the skeletochronological method. The maximum observed longevity was 7 years for males and 5 years for females. The age of males ranged from 4 to 7 years (mean 4.91, n = 12), while that of females ranged from 4 to 5 years (mean 4.66, n = 6). The average snout–vent length (SVL) was 61.10 mm in males and 60.82 mm in females. The differences in mean age and SVL between sexes were not statistically significant. Intersexual differences in body size were male-biased, but this state was not statistically significant. Age and SVL were positively correlated in both sexes.
Altunisik, A. & Eksilmez, H. (2018) -
Knowing the age structure of endangered species is important in order to contribute to future conservation studies for such species. In this context, we investigated age structure, age at sexual maturity, potential reproductive lifespan and longevity in a population of the Charnali lizard, Darevskia dryada, an endangered species from Turkey. The results show that the Charnali lizard has a longer life span than other lizards of the genus Darevskia that live in the same region. We estimated that these lizards attain their sexual maturity at the age of one or two years and the potential reproductive life span for males and females is six and five years, respectively. As in many other lizards, the Charnali lizard exhibited a low-level male-biased sexual dimorphism in terms of increased size. We believe that this study, in which prior information related to the Charnali lizard is shared, will contribute to future conservation activities for this critically endangered species.
Altunisik, A. & Eksiolmez, H. (2020) -
We investigated age structure, age at sexual maturity, lifespan, growth and survival rate and adult life expectancy (as demographic life-history traits) as well as body size of two Darevskia derjugini (Artvin lizard) populations from different altitudes, using skeletochronology. Our findings indicated that age upon attaining sexual maturity was two or three years in the low-altitude population (Fındıklı) while it was three years in the high-altitude population (Murgul) for both sexes. The maximum longevity was seven years in the high-elevation site while it was six years in the low-elevation site. As reported for many lizards, we found a significant positive relationship between age and body size within each sex of Artvin lizard at both altitudes. High- and low-altitude populations did not differ in age structure, survival rates, adult life expectancy and body size. Rather than the effect of altitude, which is hard to compare without replication of other low and high altitude populations, the fact that these two populations have similar growth rates and the similarity of local conditions (food availability and predator density) may indicate similarity between the two regions.
Altunisik, A. & Kalayci, T.E. & Uysal, I. & Tosunoglu, M. & Özdemir, N. (2016) -
In this study, the age composition of a Podarcis tauricus population from Saros Bay (northwest Turkey) was determined by skeletochronology. 27 preserved adults (20 females ,5 males, 2 juveniles) were evaluated and the maximum observed lifespan was recorded to be 7 years in females and 6 years in males. The mean age was 5.2 ± 0.2 years in males and 5.0 ± 0.2 years in females; the mean snout-vent length (SVL) was 63.0 ± 0.7 mm (range: 60.4 – 64) in males and 61.3 ± 0.9 mm (range 52.4 – 68.5) in females. No significant differences were found between sexes in terms of body size, but the sexual dimorphism index (SDI), was determined as 0.03, indicating a weakly male-biased. Adult survival rate and adult life expectancy were estimated to be 0.51 and 2.54 for female individuals, respectively. The lizards reached sexual maturity between 2 and 3 years. No significant difference was found between the sexes in terms of age and head sizes. The age and SVL were correlated only in females. Additionally, a significant positive correlation was found among SVL, head length (HL), and width (HW) in females.
Altunişik, A. & Kalayci, T.E. & Uysal, I. & Tosunoğlu, M. & Özdemir, N. (2017) -
The life history characteristics of individuals may vary depending on the altitude gradient. In this study, some life history traits such as age structure, age at sexual maturity, lifespan, body size, head length and head width were tested for two different altitude populations of Ophisops elegans. The results suggest that the individuals from the high altitude (Sivas, 1595 m) population have a higher mean body size and longer and wider head structure than the low-altitude (Çanakkale, 7 m) population. Although, the mean age of the highland population was higher than the lowland population, this case was not found statistically significant. In this study, both females and males were estimated to reach sexual maturity at an average of 3 years. The expected positive correlation between age and body size was recorded for only females of the Çanakkale population.
Bireylerin yaşam öyküsü özellikleri yükseklik gradientine bağlı olarak değişkenlik gösterebilir. Bu çalışmada yaş yapısı, eşeysel olgunluk yaşı, yaşam ömrü, vücut boyu, baş uzunluğu ve baş genişliği gibi bazı yaşam öyküsü özellikleri, Ophisops elegans türünün iki farklı rakıma sahip populasyonu için test edilmiştir. Elde edilen sonuçlar, yüksek rakımlı (1595 m) Sivas populasyonundaki bireylerin, düşük rakımlı (7 m) Çanakkale populasyonuna oranla daha yüksek boy ortalaması ve daha uzun ve geniş baş yapısına sahip olduklarını göstermiştir. Her ne kadar yüksek rakımdaki populasyonun yaş ortalaması, düşük rakımdaki populasyona kıyasla daha yüksek çıkmış olsa da, bu durum istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bulunmamıştır. Bu çalışmada her iki populasyona ait dişi ve erkek bireylerin ortalama 3 yılda eşeysel olgunluğa ulaştıkları tahmin edilmiştir. Yaş ile boy arasında beklenen pozitif ilişki sadece Çanakkale populasyonunun dişi bireyleri için kaydedilmiştir.
Altunisik, A. & Yildiz, M. & Tatli, H.H. (2024) -
Microplastics are a global environmental problem, polluting both aquatic and terrestrial environments. Terrestrial lizards are suitable model organisms to study human-induced pollution in these areas, as they can live in urbanized areas where microplastics are most abundant. Therefore, we analyzed the prevalence of microplastics (MPs) in a common Lacertid lizard, the snake-eyed lizard, Ophisops elegans. We detected MPs in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of 33 of 152 specimens from 18 populations. The detected MPs had six distinct polymer compositions, namely Polyethylene terephthalate, Polyacrylonitrile, Polypropylene, Polyethylene, Poly methyl methacrylate and Polyamide. The majority of these MPs were fiber-type and the dominant color was navy blue. The lengths of MPs varied from 37 to 563 µm, with an average length of 175 ?m. MPs were detected in the GITs of 43% of juveniles (n = 7), 30% of males (n = 105), and 18% of females (n = 40), with a mean of 0.27 per specimen. Furthermore, we found that microplastic densities varied with habitat distance from human settlements, supporting the theory that high levels of microplastic contamination are associated with extensiveanthropogenic activity.
Altunisik, A. & Yildiz, M.Z. & Akman, B. & Igci, N. & Karis, M. & Sömer, M. (2022) -
Determining the age of any species allows it to be analyzed from the ontogenetic, demographic, and ecological perspectives. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that the age structure of congener species (Lacerta media and Lacerta viridis) with the same ecological niche may vary in different areas. In this context, we applied skeletochronology method to reveal various demographic parameters, such as age structure, longevity, age at sexual maturity, growth rate, survival rate, adult life expectancy, and the relationship between age and body size in the green lizard, L. viridis, and the medium lizard, L. media. In L. media and L. viridis, the maximum lifespan was 10 and 8 years, respectively. The mean age and body size of females were significantly greater than those of males in L. media. However, in the examined L. viridis population, no appreciable variation in mean age or body size was found to exist between the sexes. It was estimated that the green lizards reach maturity at the age of 2 or 3 years. However, the L. media reached sexual maturity approximately 1 year later than the congener. The body size markedly increased with age in males for both studied populations. However, in females, body size positively increased with age only in L. media. The approach of skeletochronology that we utilized in this study to assess age structure makes it simple to gather a variety of time-dependent ecological data for such ectothermic species.
Àlvarez Calvo, J.A. (1975) -
Alvarez Calvo, J.A. (1978) -
Álvarez-Ruiz, L. & Belliure, J. & Pausas, J.G. (2021) -
The evolutionary role of fire in animals has been poorly explored. Reptiles use sensory cues, such as smell (chemoreception), to de tect threats and flee. In Mediterranean ecosystems, fire is a threat faced by reptiles. We hypothesized that the Mediterranean lizard Psammodromus algirus recognizes the threat of fire by detecting the smoke, which triggers a behavioral response that enhances sur vival in fire-prone ecosystems. We predicted that lizards from fire-prone ecosystems will be more sensitive to fire stimulus than those from ecosystems that rarely burn. We conducted a terrarium experiment in which lizards from habitats with contrasted fire regimes (fire-prone vs. non-fire-prone) were exposed to smoke versus control (false smoke) treatment. We found that, in populations from fire prone habitats, more lizards reacted to smoke, and their behavioral response was more intense than in lizard populations from non fire-prone habitats. Our results suggest that an enhanced response to smoke may be adaptive in lizards from fire-prone ecosystems as it increases the chance for survival. We provide evidence that fire is likely an evolutionary driver shaping behavioral traits in lizard populations exposed to frequent wildfires. Understanding ecological and evolutionary processes shaping animal populations is rele vant for species conservation in a changing fire regime world.
Álvarez-Ruiz, L. & Belliure, J. & Santos, X. & Pausas, J.G. (2021) -
Wildfires are a natural disturbance in many ecosystems. However, their effect on biotic interactions has been poorly studied. Fire consumes the vegetation and the litter layer where many parasites spend part of their life cycles. We hypothesize that wildfires reduce habitat availability for parasites with consequent potential benefits for hosts. We tested this for the lizard Psammodromus algirus and its ectoparasites in a Mediterranean ecosystem. We predicted that lizards in recently burned areas would have lower parasite load (cleaning effect) than those in unburned areas and that this phenomenon implies that lizards spending their entire lives in postfire conditions experience a lower level of parasitism than those living in unburned areas. We compared the ectoparasite load of lizards between eight paired burned/unburned sites, including recent (less than 1 year postfire) and older fires (2–4 years). We found that lizards` ectoparasites prevalence was drastically reduced in recently burned areas. Likewise, lizards in older burned areas showed less evidence of past parasitic infections. Fire disrupted the host–parasite interaction, providing the opportunity for lizards to avoid the negative effects of ectoparasites. Our results suggest that wildfires probably fulfil a role in controlling vector-borne diseases and pathogens, and highlight ecological effects of wildfires that have been overlooked.
Álvarez-Ruiz, L. & Megia-Palma, R. & Reguera, S. & Ruiz, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Figuerola, J. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2018) -
Studying the causes of parasite geographic distribution is relevant to understand ecological and evolutionary processes that affect host populations as well as for species conservation. Temperature is one of the most important environmental variables affecting parasite distribution, as raising temperatures positively affect development, reproduction, and rate of transmission of both endo- and ectoparasites. In this context, it is generally accepted that, in mountains, parasite abundance decreases with elevation. However, empirical evidence on this topic is limited. In the present study, we analysed the elevational variation of haemoparasites and ectoparasites of a lizard, Psammodromus algirus, along a 2200-m elevational gradient in Sierra Nevada (SE Spain). As predicted, ectoparasite (mites, ticks, mosquitoes, and sandflies) abundance decreased with elevation. However, haemoparasite prevalence and intensity in the lizard augmented with altitude, showing a pattern contrary to their vectors (mites). We suggest that tolerance to haemoparasites may increase with elevation as a consequence of lizards at high altitudes taking advantage of increased body condition and food availability, and reduced oxidative stress. Moreover, lizards could have been selected for higher resistance against haemoparasites at lowlands (where higher rates of replication are expected), thus reducing haemoparasite prevalence and load. Our findings imply that, in a scenario of climate warming, populations of lizards at high elevation may face increased abundance of ectoparasites, with accompanied strong negative effects.
Álvarez, C. & Mateo, J.A. & Oliver, J. & Mayol, J. (2010) -
Alves Cardoso dos Santos, L.E. & Carretero, M.A. (2023) -
Lizard biology is strongly linked to the spatial structure of their environment, since lizards are sedentary and depend on habitat complexity for thermoregulation, hydroregulation and antipredator defence. Agricultural stone walls are their most commonly occupied habitats, providing them with food, shelter and thermoregulating surfaces. Management may affect microhabitat structure, with uniformized concrete walls and the trimming of surrounding vegetation leading to a reduction of the available shelter. Here we analyzed the daily activity patterns and microhabitat use of Podarcis bocagei wall lizards occupying agricultural walls. From May to July 2022, lizard surveys based on visual encounters were performed in corn (Zea mays) fields in Vairão, NW Portugal, following line transects along stone walls. Each observation included information on the lizard class (adult male, female or immature), time of day, height above ground, epiphytic vegetation and number of holes. Associations between the environmental variables were examined through a multiple correspondence analysis. Results show a tendency for different patterns of activity between the morning and afternoon periods, suggesting that lizards thermoregulate during the first hours of the day, avoid activity during the heat of midday, and forage in the afternoon. Immature individuals occupied more open sections of the wall, with small or no holes and sparce vegetation. Males and females show no difference in activity or preferred microhabitat structure. Lizards avoided sections with no vegetation, and were seldom observed at ground level. They were most often observed near smaller holes than larger holes, possibly avoiding these locations due to predation from larger predators such as Timon lepidus. Studies in nonpristine areas suggest guidelines on how reptiles may cope with humanized landscapes and, ultimately, provide clues on how agriculture practices and biodiversity conservation could be better harmonized.
Alves de Matos, A.P. & Caeiro, M.F. & Vale, F.F. & Crespo, E. & Paperna, I. (2013) -
Icosahedral nucleo-cytoplasmic large DNA viruses (NCLDV)-like viruses, which form inclusions in the erythrocyte cytoplasm of reptiles, were previously presented as candidates for a new genus of the Iridoviridae family. The present work describes the distribution of infected lizard hosts and ultrastructural characteristics of the viral inclusions of NCLDV-like viruses from Portugal and adjacent locations in Spain. Giemsa-stained blood smears of 235 Lacerta schreiberi from Portugal and Spain, 571 Lacerta monticola from the mountain Serra da Estrela (Portugal), 794 Podarcis hispanica from several localities in Portugal and Spain, and 25 Lacerta dugesii from Madeira Island, were studied. Infection in L. schreiberi was only found in mountain populations, up to 30% in Serra da Estrela and 9–11% elsewhere. It was absent in lizards from lowlands. Prevalence of infection among L. monticola in Serra da Estrela was 10%; infected lizards were found during March to July and October but not in August and September. Infection in P. hispanica was below 3.3%. Only one infected specimen of L. dugesii was identified by light microscopy. Ultrastructural examination of infected samples revealed that the inclusions are virus assembly sites of icosahedral cytoplasmic iridovirus-like virions. Virions from different host species have different ultrastructural features and probably represent different related viruses.
Alves de Matos, A.P. & Crespo, E.G. & Paperna, I. (1998) -
Alves de Matos, A.P. & Silva Trabucho Caeiro, M.F.A. de & Papp, T., & Cunha Almeida Matos, B.A. da & Correia, A.C.L. & Marschang, R.E. (2011) -
Lizard erythrocytic viruses ~LEVs! have previously been described in Lacerta monticola from Serra da Estrela, Portugal. Like other known erythrocytic viruses of heterothermic vertebrates, these viruses have never been adapted to cell cultures and remain uncharacterized at the molecular level. In this study, we made attempts to adapt the virus to cell cultures that resulted instead in the isolation of a previously undetected Ranavirus closely related to FV3. The Ranavirus was subsequently detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the blood of infected lizards using primers for a conserved portion of the Ranavirus major capsid protein gene. Electron microscopic study of the new Ranavirus disclosed, among other features, the presence of intranuclear viruses that may be related to an unrecognized intranuclear morphogenetic process. Attempts to detect by PCR a portion of the DNA polymerase gene of the LEV in infected lizard blood were successful. The recovered sequence had 65.2/69.4% nt/aa% homology with a previously detected sequence from a snake erythrocytic virus from Florida, which is ultrastructurally different from the studied LEV. These results further support the hypothesis that erythrocytic viruses are related to one another and may represent a new group of nucleocytoplasmic large deoxyriboviruses.
Alves de Matos, A.P., Paperna, I, Rosa, H.D., Sa Sousa, P. (1994) -
Alyousif, M.S. & Al-Ghamdy, A.O. (2011) -
Eleven out of 42 (26.2%) lizards Acanthodactylus schmidti were found harboring haemogregarines in their peripheral blood. The erythrocytic stages were differentiated into 2 forms: the young form (trophozoite) measured 12.5 +/- 0.5 x 1.7 +/- 0.3 microm and the large mature form (gametocyte) measured 19.8 +/- 1.7 x 1.7 +/- 0.3 microm. The infected erythrocytes were distorted from 16.0 +/- 1.2 x 9.2 +/- 0.2 microm to 20.2 +/- 1.8 x 6.7 +/- 0.8 microm, hypertrophied and faintly stained. None of the leucocytes seemed to be parasitized by the present parasite. Schizogony took place in the endothelial cells of lung capillaries and parenchyma of liver. Two types of schizonts were recorded; microschizonts of 9.35 x 9.65 +/- 0.38 microm and macroschizonts of 25.36 +/-1.81 x 20.35 +/- 0.82 microm. The microschizonts produced 6-12 merozoites, while the macroschizonts produced 18-36 merozoites, however there were no differences between both merozoites, each measured 11.54 +/- 0.81 x 1.41 +/- 0.71 microm. The infected host cells were markedly hypertrophied with noticeable irregularity and faint stainability as well as some vacuolation, necrosis or shrinkage and necrosis.
Amado, A. (2007) -
Amador, A.V. (1999) -
Amann, T. (1995) -
Es wurden zwei elektrophoretische Methoden zur genetischen Untersuchung der Smaragdeidechse Lacerta viridis durchgeführt. I. Die Polyacrylamid-Gel Elektrophorese erzielte folgende Ergebnisse. 1. Es trat eine bei allen Individuen homogene Albuminbande mit leichten, nicht spezifizierbaren Schwankungen auf. 2. Vier verschiedene Globulin-Loci ohne Variationen hinsichtlich des Geschlechts oder physiologischer Parameter konnten unterschieden werden. 3. Die Globuline traten in zwei typischen Formationen auf. Diese waren jeweils diagnostisch für Tiere aus Frankreich und Rheinoland-Pfalz, sowie für Tiere aus Brandenburg, Österreich, Ungarn und Euböa. Es konnte ein Ost- und ein Westtypus unterschieden werden. 4. Weder Transferrine noch Postalbumine ließen sich deutlich anfärben oder auswerten. II. Die Celluloseacetat-Gel Elektrophorese der Allozyme der zellulären Blutbedstandteile. 1. Von 37 Enzymen konnten 14 mit insgesamt 17 Loci untersucht werden. 2. Sechs der 17 Loci waren polymorph (35 %(. Diese waren: Acontinase, Peptidase-A, -B1, -B2, -D, 6-Phosphogluconat-Dehydrogenase. 3. Die beiden Allele der Aconitase waren diagnostisch für den West- und den Osttypus. 4, Bei den anderen polymorphen Peptidasen konnten typische Ost-West-Variationen erkannt werden. III. Es wurde eine nummerische Auswertung mit Hilfe von Computerprogrammen durchgeführt. 1. Die ermittelte Heterozygotie lag bei Werten zwischen 0.02 und 0.05. Die Heterozygotie-Werte der untersuchten Populationen mit weniger als 4 Individuen erschienen nicht representativ. 2. Die Heterozygotie der Populationen von Rhein und Brandenburg erreichte nur die Hälfte derjenigen aus Österreich. Dies wurde mit einer genetischen Verarmung durch Isolation und Inzucht gedeutet. 3. Die Berechnung der genetischen Distanzen erfolgte nach NEI (1970). 4. Innerhalb der Osttiere und Westtiere lagen die genetischen Distanzen mit Werten von 0.0 bis 0.04 sehr niedrig. Man kann daraus eine sehr langsame Mutationsgeschwindigkeit ableiten. 5. Bei den genetischen Distanzen ergaben sich zwischen den Populationen des Ost- und des Westtypus der Smaragdeidechsen Werte zwischen 0.354 und 0.38. Diese liegen etwa auf dem Niveau von Distanzen zwischen anderen Lacertiden-Arten. IV. Interpretation der Daten Die Ergebnisse dieser Untersuchung wurden zusammen mit Daten weiterer Arbeiten dahingehend gedeutet, daß es sich bei den Tieren aus dem westlichen Teil des Verbreitungsgebietes und denen aus dem östlichen Areal um zwei Arten handelt. Sie wurden als Lacerta bilineata (DAUDIN 1802) für den Westteil und Lacerta viridis (Laurenti 1768) für den Ostteil bezeichnet. Die vorliegenden Ergebnisse unterstützten die These, daß die Smaragdeidechse postglazial aus zwei verschiedenen Regugialräumen östlich und westlich der Alpen nach Norden vorgedrungen ist. Aufgrund der deutlichen Unterschiede zwischen den beiden deutschen Vorkommen kann anagenommen werden, daß sich die beiden Arten nördlich der Alpen postglazial nicht überschnitten haben. Über kleinräumige Wanderbewegungen kann mit den vorliegenden Daten keine Aussage gemacht werden. Eine Mischzone der Arten südlich der Alpen wird in Kroatien und Slowenien erwartet.
Amann, T. & Joger, U. (1995) -
Amann, T. & Joger, U. & Veith, M. (1997) -
Amann, T. & Razzetti, E. & Joger, U. (2001) -
Amann, T. & Rykena, S. & Joger, U. & Nettmann, H.-K. & Veith, M. (1997) -
Electrophoretic investigations of six populations of green lizards from Western, Central, and Southeastern Europe are consistent with results from hybridization experiments and confirm species status for the western green lizard, Lacerta bilineata. NE! distances of 0.16- 0.19 found between L. viridis and L. bilineata are within the range found for other sister species of lacertids. Lizards from the Greek island of Euboea differ slightly from typical viridis morphologically and electrophoretically, which is again consistent with hybridization results. The proven practicability of experimental hybridization provides support for the biological species concept.
Amaral, J.P.S. do (2006) -
Amaral, M.C.F. do (2009) -
The lizard Podarcis carbonelli is an endangered species endemic to the Iberian Peninsula. One location where this species occurs is at the Berlengas Natural Preserve, an Atlantic archipelago off the coast of Portugal. These island populations are geographically separated from nearby mainland populations. The fundamental question is, are these insular individuals distinct from the mainland populations? Four localities were chose for comparison: two island populations and two nearby coastal populations. We assessed this question using three distinct approaches: molecular, morphological and physiological approach. We sequenced the 12S RNA, the mtDNA Control Region and the 7th intron of the !-fibrinogen gene and determined genetic diversity values as well as several parameters of population structure and differentiation. Individuals from these populations were also measured for several biometric characters and their blood lactate concentration was sampled. There was no genetic variation in both the mtDNA regions analyzed. The nuclear intron revealed high levels of genetic variation, with islands having in general lower values than the mainland regions. The four populations sampled had low levels of divergence; the populations of Berlenga and Peniche were the most distinct and the populations of Farilhão and Baleal were the most similar from the four populations sampled. Morphometric analyses revealed a different pattern of similarity among populations with the population of Farilhão being the only population statistically distinct from all other populations based on mass and SVL. Furthermore, island populations were in general more similar to each other than to mainland populations, with the exception of Berlenga males which in size are more similar to the Peniche males. The analysis of the blood lactate concentration revealed that the population of Peniche has significantly lower blood lactate levels than the populations of Farilhão and Berlenga. The lack of genetic differentiation found in the populations under study is most likely due to the recent divergence of these populations. Furthermore, the genetically most different populations (Berlenga and Peniche) are not the most distinct in terms of morphology, particularly the males. This suggests that genetic drift, the most likely mechanism behind the genetic differentiation seen, is not responsible for the morphological differences observed. The morphological differences seen can be attributed to: a possible difference in age of the individuals in each population; mechanisms of natural selection that are favoring specific phenotypes in each of the populations, or phenotypic plasticity. The differences in blood lactate levels found between the population of Peniche and the island populations can be attributed to differences in predatory pressure or home range size. It is suggested that the island populations are closely monitored due to their likely isolation, low mtDNA diversity and possible higher predatory pressure than initially predicted.
Amaral, M.J. & Bicho, R.C. & Carretero, M.A. & Sanchez-Hernandez, J.C. & Faustino, A.M.R. & Soares, A.M.V.M. & Mann, R.M. (2012) -
As part of a wider study examining the impacts of corn pesticides on lacertid lizards in north-western Portugal, we examined various physiological, biochemical, and histological biomarkers of exposure and effect among field populations of Podarcis bocagei. Biomarkers included body condition index, standard metabolic rate, locomotor performance, parasitization, glutathione oxidative pathways and related enzyme activity, lipid peroxidation and liver and testis histology. Few of the various biomarkers investigated provided statistically significant evidence of toxic effect. However, using a weight of evidence approach, we conclude that pesticides are affecting lizards living in the vicinity of pesticide exposed corn agriculture sites. Lizards from these locations present a profile of animals under metabolic stress with reduced condition indices, increased standard metabolic rate, lower incidence of hepatocyte vacuolation, altered iron metabolism, increased activation of GSH oxidation pathways, and even increased prevalence of hemoparasites.
Amaral, M.J. & Bicho, R.C. & Carretero, M.A. & Sánchez-Hernández, J.C. & Faustino, A.M.R. & Soares, A.M.V.M. & Mann, R.M. (2012) -
Mesocosms (i.e., outdoor, man-made representations of natural ecosystems) have seldom been used to study the impact of contaminants on terrestrial ecosystems. However, mesocosms can be a useful tool to provide a link between field and laboratory studies. We exposed juvenile lacertid lizards for a period of over one year to pesticides (herbicides and insecticides) in mesocosm enclosures with the intention of validating field observations obtained in a previous study that examined the effects of corn pesticides in Podarcis bocagei. Our treatments replicated field conditions and consisted of a control, an herbicides only treatment (alachlor, terbuthylazine, mesotrione and glyphosate) and an herbicides and insecticide treatment (including chlorpyrifos). We used a multi-biomarker approach that examined parameters at an individual and sub-individual level, including growth, locomotor performance, standard metabolic rate, biomarkers of oxidative stress, esterases and liver histopathologies. Although mortality over the course of the exposures was high (over 60%), surviving individuals prospered relatively well in the mesocosms and displayed a broad range of natural behaviours. The low numbers of replicate animals compromised many of the statistical comparisons, but in general, surviving lizards exposed to pesticides in mesocosm enclosures for over one year, thrived, and displayed few effects of pesticide exposure. Despite the difficulties, this work acts as an important stepping-stone for future ecotoxicology studies using lizards.
Amaral, M.J. & Carretero, M., & Bicho, R. & Soares, A. & Mann, R. (2010) -
Amaral, M.J. & Carretero, M.A. & Agra, A.R. & Soares, A.M.V.M. & Mann, R.M. (2008) -
Lizards are one of the least studied groups in ecotoxicology and despite a recent increase in number of studies, there is still a lack of knowledge regarding their response to environmental contamination. Lacertid lizards have been identified as potential model species for reptile ecotoxicology in Europe. They offer several advantages over other groups as they are usually highly abundant; have strong site fidelity; are easy to capture, mark and recapture in the field; and are easy to maintain in captivity. The main goal of our project is to assess if highly abundant lacertid lizards belonging to the genus Podarcis in Southern Europe, can be used as bioindicators of pesticide exposure and toxicity in areas of intensive agriculture. We have chosen Podarcis bocagei because is a widely abundant species and the only lacertid present on high pesticide usage corn fields dominating the landscape of north- western Portugal. As a first approach, we will document the abundance, demography and biological fitness of the species occurring in areas of either intensive or negligible pesticide usage. A second approach aims to study naïve lizards in more controlled experiments, both in mesocosm and laboratory experiments to validate field observations. We intend to employ a variety of techniques to assess pesticide exposure and toxicity including biochemical, behavioural, morphological and molecular biomarkers. On a larger scale we hope to study bioaccumulation processes in lizards, reflect on the biological significance of the reported tissue concentrations and develop criteria to predict risk to lizard populations. In the future, similar projects using lacertids as bioindicators could be developed in other parts of the Mediterranean Basin.
Amaral, M.J. & Carretero, M.A. & Bicho, R.C. & Soares, A.M.V.M. & Mann, R.M. (2012) -
At the European level, lacertid lizards have been proposed as potential model species for reptile ecotoxicology. We studied demographic and morphological aspects of natural field subpopulations of Podarcis bocagei inhabiting similar agricultural habitats which were either regularly exposed to pesticides, or not. Parameters examined in this study included population size and density, sex ratio, adult body size, fluctuating asymmetry in femoral pores and parasite prevalence. In general, we detected few statistically significant differences between the exposed and reference subpopulations. Although field situations are ecologically complex and factors other than pesticides may be acting, the absence of observable effects on field subpopulations is probably indicative that lizards are coping or compensating for this level of exposure.
Amaral, M.J. & Sanchez-Hernandez, J.C. & Bicho, R.C. & Carretero, M.A. & Valente, R. & Faustino, A.M.R. & Soares, A.M.V.M. & Mann, R.M. (2012) -
In Europe, reptiles have been recently included in environmental risk-assessment processes for registration of plant-protection products. However, data on toxicity effects of most compounds are lacking. Chlorpyrifos is the most commonly used organophosphorus insecticide worldwide. In the present study, the authors exposed a lacertid lizard, Podarcis bocagei, to sublethal concentrations of chlorpyrifos. Individuals were exposed through spiked food for a period of 20 d (low dose 0.12 mg/kg/d, high dose 1.57 mg/kg/d). After exposure, various biomarkers of exposure and effect were evaluated, including the activities of glutathione S-transferase and enzymes involved in the glutathione redox cycle, glutathione concentrations, activities of esterases, liver and testes histopathologies, as well as locomotory and predatory behavior. The results indicate that sublethal, subchronic exposure to chlorpyrifos can affect P. bocagei in a dose-dependent manner. Adverse effects occurred at both the subindividual and individual levels, including inhibition of carboxylesterases and cholinesterases (ChEs), liver histopathological changes, and altered predatory behaviors. Animals exposed to chlorpyrifos took more time to capture and subdue prey items. The results suggest a link between effects at subindividual levels of organization with those observed at the whole individual level after exposure to environmentally realistic dosages of chlorpyrifos.
Amaral, M.J. & Sánchez-Hernández, J.J. & Carretero, M. & Bicho, R. & Soares, A. & Mann, R. (2010) -
Amaral, M.J. & Verissimo, C. & Carretero, M.A. (2006) -
Amaral, M.J. Aires do (2012) -
Lizards are among the least studied groups in ecotoxicology and despite a recent increase in the number of studies, there is still a lack of knowledge regarding their response to environmental contamination. In Europe, lacertid lizards have been identified as potential model species for reptile ecotoxicology. The main question of this project was to assess if a highly abundant lacertid lizard belonging to the genus Podarcis, could be used as a bioindicator of pesticide exposure and toxicity in agricultural areas. To achieve this end, we used a three-stage tiered approach. The first tier took the form of a field survey to document the nature of the exposure and the population parameters of lacertids occurring in areas of intensive pesticide usage as well as areas of negligible pesticide usage. The second tier consisted of a mesocosm study in which naïve lizards were exposed to pesticides in a controlled experiment. Finally, the third tier included a laboratory approach to the effects of one of the most common insecticides used worldwide, chlorpyrifos. We assessed pesticide impact in individuals from the different tiers using a comprehensive set of biomarkers applied at different levels of biological organization, including population parameters as well as behavioral, physiological, biochemical and histological biomarkers. We detected few statistically significant differences between reference and exposed populations in the field study. Confirming the difficulty to isolate the effects of contaminants on natural populations where other local factors, natural cycles or stochastic events occur. P. bocagei populations seem to be able to compensate with the observed level of pesticide exposure. Nevertheless, individuals living in exposed sites seem to be less ecologically fit than those living in reference sites, presenting a depleted nutritional status and signs of metabolic stress. The results from the mesocosm setting reinforce these results. Lizards prospered relatively well in all enclosures, treated or not with pesticides, presenting a broad range of natural behaviors. The laboratory approach confirmed P. bocagei as valuable indicator of sub-lethal exposure to environmental realistic doses of chlorpyrifos. According to our results, P. bocagei seems to be a suitable bioindicator of pesticide exposure.
Amaral,.J. & Carretero, M.A. & Bico, R.C. & Sanchéz-Hernandez, J.C. & Guarino, F.M. & Valente, R. & Faustino, A.M.R. & Soares, A.M.V.M. & Mann, R.M. (2011) -
Lizards are among the least studied groups in ecotoxicology, and despite a recent increase in the number of studies, there is still a lack of knowledge regarding their response to environmental contamination. In Europe, lacertid lizards have been identiied as potential model species for reptile ecotoxicology. The main question of our project was to assess if highly abundant lacertid lizards belonging to the genus Podarcis, could be used as bioindicator of pesticide exposure and toxicity in agricultural areas. To achieve this end, we used a three- stage tiered approach. The irst tier took the form of a ield survey to document both exposure and population endpoints of lacertids occurring in areas of intensive pesticide and usage and areas of negligible pesticide usage. The second tier was a mesocosm study in which naïve lizards were exposed to pesticides in a controlled experiment. Finally, the third tier included a laboratorial approach to the efects of one of the most common insecticides used worldwide, chlorpyrifos. We assessed pesticide impact using a comprehensive set of endpoints applied at diferent levels of biological organization, including behavioral, physiological, biochemical and histological biomarkers. The ield work conirmed the di culty of diferentiation between the efect of contaminants and other (local) factors at the population level but our results suggest a diference in the metabolic activity between animals from reference and exposed locations. Animals from exposed ields seem to be in worst body conditions and in a deicitary energy balance when compared to animals from the reference locations. The results of the mesocosm study validated the correlative data obtained in the ield survey. While the laboratory approach showed that environmentally relevant dosages of chlorpyrifos can afect P. bocagei. According to our data, P. bocagei seems to be a suitable indicator of sub-lethal exposure to pesticides.
Amat i Orriols, F. & Sanuy Castells, D. & Guillén Cuesta, J. (2010) -
The determination of amphibians and reptiles species, their altitudinal range and biotopes in Les Planes de Son and the Mata de València, was determined by sampling the study area from autumn 2006 to spring of 2007. Compared to other studied Pyrenean areas, the herpetofauna is relatively poor. We only found 5 species of amphibians and 9 of reptiles. Specific samplings discard the presence of two Pyrenean endemics, de newt (Calotriton asper) and the lizard (Iberolacerta bonnali). Interestingly, we found an altitudinal replacement of ocelated lizard (Timon lepidus) by green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) and of Iberian rocky lizard (Podarcis hispanica) by Podarcis muralis. Less forested habitats situated at low altitude are the richest in amphibian and reptile species, in contrast to the highest places inhabited by few species (Rana temporaria, Podarcis muralis and Vipera aspis).
Amat Orriols, F. (2003) -
Geographical variation in scalation traits of the Iberian green lizard Lacerta schreiberi was studied measuring 27 morphometric and pholidotic traits in 533 lizards from 12 populations. The results show a little morphological differentiation between the populations of the mountains of Central System and the Atlantic side of the Iberian peninsula. The reduced width of the occipital plate of Central System lizards appears as the most remarkable difference between this population and the other populations analysed. This differentiation is consistent with the presence of two groups of mitochondria DNA haplotypes in each of these geographic areas. Nevertheless, the differences detected were too insufficient to consider a modification of the taxonomic status of Lacerta schreiberi.
Amat Orriols, F. (2011) -
Morphologic diversity was studied in 129 species of lacertid lizards and their relationship with ecology by means of comparative analysis on seven linear morphometric measurements. Body size is the most important variable determining, a continuum among small bodied species and larger ones independently evolved through the lacertid phylogeny. This variable is strongly and positively correlated with the others masking the patterns of morphologic diversity. Multivariate analysis on size-adjusted variables show a negative covariation among relative tail and limb length. Remarkably, arboreal and semiarboreal species (Takydromus and the Equatorial African clade) appeared two times independently during the evolution of lacertids and are characterized by extremely long tails, and relatively long forelimbs in comparison with hindlimb length. The arboreal and glider lizard Holaspis with their short tail constitute the only exception. Another case of convergence is found by some species dwelling into dense vegetation or grass (Tropidosaura, Lacerta agilis, Takydromus amurensis or Zootoca) which have long tails and short limbs. On the opposite, species living in deserts, steppes or scrublands with scarce vegetation isolated into extended open areas have developed long hindlimbs and short forelimbs to achieve higher speed and maneuverability This is especially the case of Acanthodactylus and Eremias.
Amat Orriols, F. & Escoriza, D. (2023) -
Pleistocene climate oscillations had a dramatic impact on the distribution of temperate ectothermic organisms. These range fluctuations plausibly have left a footprint on the species’ genetic structure which is linked with modelled paleoclimatic conditions, allowing us to infer which environmental factors shaped the evolutionary history of Sand lizards. In this study, we evaluated the patterns of niche diversification of Lacerta agilis in Eurasia, based on mitochondrial DNA analyses and ecological niche models. The lineage of Sand lizards evolved 3.8–1.8 Mya, being the most basal in the east-Caucasian subclade, with eight mitochondrial subclades separated into two groups. These groups represent two independent waves of expansion from the ancestral region constituted by the Caucasus and the adjacent northern plains to the Paleartic. Paleoclimatic models suggested a high instability of the range of this lineage in the last 3 Mya, with niche contractions during the colder glacial periods and expansions following the glacier retreat. This suggested an allopatric diversification process, with subspecies boundaries upon secondary contact maintained by competitive interactions, at least between closely related pairs. The great mountain systems of the Mediterranean Peninsulas constituted stable refugia during the Pliocene–Pleistocene cycles, favouring the evolution of endemic subclades. These montane subclades have higher mitochondrial diversity than those that occur in the plains. However, the Pyrenean endemic L. agilis garzoni is exception possibly due to the occupation of a very small refugium during the recent glacial phases.
Amat, F. (1997) -
Amat, F. (2008) -
The persistence of populations is based on the optimization of reproductive processes as a means of compensating for the loss of individuals through mortality. One way of reaching this equilibrium is the coadaptation of reproductive traits defining different strategies. I explored these tactics in lacertid lizards by analysing the covariation between, on the one hand, clutch size and frequency, and on the other, egg mass, using independent contrast data from 42 species. In addition, I examined the influence of female and newborn size on these variables. All the traits investigated, with the exception of clutch frequency, are influenced by female body size, reflecting physical constraints on reproductive output. The negative trade-off between clutch size and newborn size on one hand and egg mass on the other is congruent with the partitioning of energetic resources to produce a few large or numerous small descendents. Clutch frequency is unrelated to the other female reproductive traits.
Amat, F. & Llorente, G.A. & Carretero, M.A. (1998) -
Amat, F. & Llorente, G.A. & Carretero, M.A. (2000) -
The reproductive cycle of Lacerta agilis was studied in the Pyrenees at the southwestern boundary of the species range. The activity period is short (about 4.5 months). Males attain sexual maturity at smaller sizes than females and show mixed type spermatogenesis and spring spermiogenesis. Vitellogenesis in females is rapid (45 days for the whole population) with a long period of oviductal retention. Clutches are laid at the beginning of summer. During the reproductive period males mobilise reserves during the mating activities. Females deplete more fat reserves but later in the season than males and they are at their lowest after egg production. In both sexes, energy resources are mobilised from the fat bodies and also from the liver and the proximal part of the tail. Clutch size increases with female size but also depends on other factors. The short activity period does not appear to affect the reproductive cycle of this species. The gonad cycles and clutch traits do not show substantial differences from other European populations, perhaps with the exception of slight variation in the timing of reproductive events and, to a lesser extent, clutch frequency. This evidence strongly suggests that the limited southwestern range of Lacerta agilis is not due to environmental constraints but to very recent colonization.
Amat, F. & Llorente, G.A. & Carretero, M.A. (2003) -
Abstract. The thermal relations, diel, and annual activity and microhabitat use of Lacerta agiliswere studied in the Pyrenean isolated range of this species. Although, this heliothermic lizard demonstrated thermoregulatory capability, thermal constraints attributable to the mountain climate were observed. The activity pattern was that typical of cold temperate lizards but the beginning of activity was delayed in comparison with lowland populations. The reproductive cycle determined different activity patterns for males and females. The ontogenetic and seasonal changes in microhabitat use detected suggest influence of body size, reproductive condition in adults, and interference with other individuals in juveniles.
Amat, F. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Hérnandez-Estévez, J.& Garcia-Diez, T. (2008) -
We report the first study of diet composition of a Pyrenean lizard of the genus Iberolacerta, the Aurelio`s lizard, I. aurelioi, living in an alpine rocky slope at 2300 m of altitude in Andorra. Diet composition was studied during two years from 289 faecal pellets containing 966 prey items. Number of prey per pellet shows annual, seasonal and sexual differences. Diet of the species is poorly diverse, mainly dominated by insects, but we find clear evidences of opportunistic cannibalism based on the presence of toes and scales in feces. In addition, we detected minor sexual, annual and month differences in prey presence and abundance. Low amplitude of trophic niche width and prey diversity, as well as predation on clumped prey and cannibalistic behaviour suggest that Iberolacerta aurelioi has a remarkable dietary strategy in response to strong thermal and food availability constraints at high mountain habitats.
Amat, F. & Roig, J.M. (2001) -
Amat, J.A. & Martinez-de-la-Torre, M. & Trujillo, C.M. & Fernández, B. & Puelles, L. (2022) -
In the developing brain, the phenomenon of neurogenesis is manifested heterotopically, that is, much the same neurogenetic steps occur at different places with a different timetable. This is due apparently to early molecular regionalization of the neural tube wall in the anteroposterior and dorsoventral dimensions, in a checkerboard pattern of more or less deformed quadrangular histogenetic areas. Their respective fate is apparently specified by a locally specific combination of active/repressed genes known as “molecular profile.” This leads to position-dependent differential control of proliferation, neurogenesis, differentiation, and other aspects, eventually in a heterochronic manner across adjacent areal units with sufficiently different molecular profiles. It is not known how fixed these heterochronic patterns are. We reexamined here comparatively early patterns of forebrain and hindbrain neurogenesis in a lizard (Lacerta gallotia galloti), a bird (the chick), and a mammal (the rat), as demonstrated by activation of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). This is an early marker of postmitotic neurons, which leaves unlabeled the neuroepithelial ventricular cells, so that we can examine cleared wholemounts of the reacted brains to have a birds-eye view of the emergent neuronal pattern at each stage. There is overall heterochrony between the basal and alar plates of the brain, a known fact, but, remarkably, heterochrony occurs even within the precocious basal plate among its final anteroposterior neuromeric subdivisions and their internal microzonal subdivisions. Some neuromeric units or microzones are precocious, while others follow suit without any specific spatial order or gradient; other similar neuromeric units remain retarded in the midst of quite advanced neighbors, though they do produce similar neurogenetic patterns at later stages. It was found that some details of such neuromeric heterochrony are species-specific, possibly related to differential morphogenetic properties. Given the molecular causal underpinning of the updated prosomeric model used here for interpretation, we comment on the close correlation between some genetic patterns and the observed AChE differentiation patterns.
Ambrogio, A. & Mezzadri, S. (2003) -
Ambrogio, AS. & Mezzadri, S. (2003) -
Ambrose, D. (2006) -
Amer, A. & Spears, S. & Vaughn P.L. & Colwell, C. & Livingston, E.H. & McQueen, W. & Schill, A. & Reichard, D.G. & Gangloff, E.J. & Brock, K.M. (2023) -
Many species exhibit color polymorphisms which have distinct physiological and behavioral characteristics. However, the consistency of morph trait covariation patterns across species, time, and ecological contexts remains unclear. This trait covariation is especially relevant in the context of invasion biology and urban adaptation. Specifically, physiological traits pertaining to energy maintenance are crucial to fitness, given their immediate ties to individual reproduction, growth, and population establishment. We investigated the physiological traits of Podarcis muralis, a versatile color polymorphic species that thrives in urban environments (including invasive populations in Ohio, USA). We measured five physiological traits (plasma corticosterone and triglycerides, hematocrit, body condition, and field body temperature), which compose an integrated multivariate phenotype. We then tested variation among co-occurring color morphs in the context of establishment in an urban environment. We found that the traits describing physiological status and strategy shifted across the active season in a morph-dependent manner—the white and yellow morphs exhibited clearly different multivariate physiological phenotypes, characterized primarily by differences in plasma corticosterone. This suggests that morphs have different strategies in physiological regulation, the flexibility of which is crucial to urban adaptation. The white-yellow morph exhibited an intermediate phenotype, suggesting an intermediary energy maintenance strategy. Orange morphs also exhibited distinct phenotypes, but the low prevalence of this morph in our study populations precludes clear interpretation. Our work provides insight into how differences among stable polymorphisms exist across axes of the phenotype and how this variation may aid in establishment within novel environments.
Amer, S.A. & Reda, E.N. & Reheem, A.A.G.A. & El-Said, D.L. (2008) -
The structure of the lizard community in Damietta was analyzed in the present study. Five locations were selected as a study area, each represents different habitat of Damietta Governorate. Seven lizard species were recorded which are related to four families and five genera. They were Chamaeleo africanus, Hemidactylus turcicus, Chalcides ocellatus, Mabuya quinquetaeniata, Mabuya vittata, Acanthodactylus boskianus and Acanthodactylus scutellatus. The lacertid lizards Acanthodactylus boskianus and Acanthodactylus scutellatus were the most common species in the community. Therefore, the study was extended to reveal the genetic variability for the population of these two species in Damietta. Four arbitrary chosen enzymes were analyzed electrophoretically. These enzymes were Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), esterase (EST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and acid phosphatase (ACP). Eleven presumed gene loci have been recorded. A. scutellatus showed higher genetic variability with a polymorphism of 90% of its population compared to 82% for the samples of A. boskianus.
Amo, L. & Fargallo, J.L. & Martinez-Padilla, J. & Millián, J. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2005) -
We describe the blood and intestinal parasites in the Ocellated lizard, Lacerta lepida, examining the factors that determine the prevalence and intensity of infection of haemogregarines, and the prevalence of coccidia and nematodes. In relation to haemogregarines, no juveniles were detected as being infected, whereas 71.7 % of adults were infected. The prevalence of infection was positively related to the size of the adults. There were no differences between seasons or sexes in the prevalence or intensity of infection in adults. There were no significant differences in the prevalence of infection by nematodes between ages or sexes, nor in relation to the size of adult lizards, but adult lizards excreting coccidian oocysts tend to be smaller. During the mating period, reproductive activities lead to a decrease in the body condition. However, neither the intensity of haemogregarine’s infection nor the prevalence of intestinal parasites was related to the lizards’ body condition.
Amo, L. & López Martinez, P. & Martin Rueda, J. (2014) -
Amo, L. & Lopez, P. & Martin, J. (2003) -
Animals should tend to adjust the magnitude and characteristics of their escape responses according to the perceived levels of predation risk to cope with risk without incurring excessive costs. We analyze in the field the factors that determine the choice of escape behavior and patterns of refuge use of Wall Lizards under two simulated levels of predation risk and under variable environmental conditions, which may affect risk perception and costs of refuge use. The results show that Wall Lizards adjusted their antipredatory response according to several factors. The threat of predation posed by the predator affected the initial type of response of lizards but not the subsequent escape strategies employed. The escape strategy depended on the vulnerability to be captured (i.e., height on the wall and air temperature) and costs of refuge use (temperature and potential predation by ambush snakes). The initial risk of predation and thermal costs of refuge use affected emergence times from the refuge. The antipredator decisions of Wall Lizards, therefore, were influenced not only by the probability of mortality in the immediate future, such as the initial threat of predation and perceived susceptibility but also by consequences for long-term expected fitness, such as physiological costs of refuge use, and by the eventual risk of mortality associated with the use of unsafe refuges.
Amo, L. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2004) -
The study of the effect of parasites on their host populations is essential for understanding their role in host population dynamics and ecology. We describe the general field population biology of haemogregarines in the Iberian rock lizard, Lacerta monticola, examining the factors that determine the prevalence and intensity of infection. Prevalence and infection intensity were higher in adults than in juvenile lizards. The prevalence rate was higher in larger lizards, probably because they were also older and had been more often in contact with parasites during their lifetime. During the mating season, the intensity of parasite infection was greater in males than in females, probably due to immunosuppressive effects of testosterone. The parasite load had a negative effect on the body condition during the reproductive season. The results suggest that the interactions between parasites and hosts are not stable in this lizard population.
Amo, L. & Lopez, P. & Martin, J. (2004) -
The Smooth Snake, Coronella austriaca, is an ambush predator that waits for its main prey, the Wall Lizard, Podarcis muralis, inside dark rock crevices where lizards retreat. Pheromonal secretions of lizards could be used by snakes to select foraging sites but also during predatory episodes when identifying lizards under conditions of low visibility is beneficial. We used cotton applicators labeled with lizard scent to determine whether Smooth Snakes can discriminate the chemical cues ofWall Lizards.We also asked whether snakes could discriminate between male and female lizards, or detect male scents before female ones, which could indicate differential susceptibility of the sexes to predation. The greater tongue-flick rate in response to Wall Lizard scent than to deionized water or cologne indicated that C. austriaca is able to discriminate the chemical cues of Wall Lizards, but it did not discriminate between the sexes of lizard prey.
Amo, L. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2004) -
Multiple predators can have risk-enhancing effects due to conflicting predator-specific prey defenses. Wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) escape from searching predators by fleeing into refuges where they can also encounter ambush snakes (Coronella austri- aca). We simulated attacks to lizards in the laboratory to compare their use of preda- tor-scented refuges with that of control refuges, and examined whether lizards that suf- fered a second attack changed the refuge used in the first attack if they had been hidden before in an unsafe refuge. The presence of snake cues neither influenced time to enter the refuge nor refuge choice. However, appearance time was greater in the snake- scented refuge, probably due to time spent acquiring information to ensure the absence of the snake. This was supported because once lizards appeared, they resumed their activities in the same interval of time. Our results suggest a case of predator facilitation due to conflicting prey defenses.
The threat sensitivity hypothesis assumes that multiple cues from a predator should contribute in an additive way to determine the degree of risk-sensitive behaviour. The ability to use multiple cues in assessing the current level of predation risk should be especially important to prey exposed to multiple predators. Wall lizards, Podarcis muralis, respond to predatory attacks from birds or mammals by hiding inside rock crevices, where they may encounter another predator, the smooth snake, Coronella austriaca. We investigated in the laboratory whether chemical cues may be important to wall lizards for detection of snakes. The greater tongue-flick rate and shorter latency to first tongue-flick in response to predator scents indicated that lizards were able to detect the snakes` chemical cues. We also investigated the use of different predatory cues by lizards when detecting the presence of snakes within refuges. We simulated successive predator attacks and compared the propensity of lizards to enter the refuge and time spent within it for predator-free refuges, refuges containing either only visual or chemical cues of a snake, or a combination of these. The antipredatory response of lizards was greater when they were exposed to both visual and chemical cues than when only one cue was presented, supporting the threat sensitivity hypothesis. This ability may improve the accuracy of assessments of the current level of predation risk inside the refuge. It could be especially important in allowing lizards to cope with threats posed by two types of predators requiring conflicting prey defences.
Prey often respond to predators by increasing refuge use, but some refuges may expose prey to other types of predators. Because predators are not always visible inside refuges, their chemical stimuli may provide early warning of their presence. However, in ectotherms, chemosensory detection of predators may be thermally dependent. Lizards often hide in cold refuges, where their body temperature (Tb) may decrease, and this might affect their ability to detect chemicals of saurophagous snakes that ambush inside refuges. We examined the effects of Tb of wall lizards, Podarcis muralis, on their ability to detect chemicals of smooth snakes, Coronella austriaca. Differential tongue flick (TF) rates and behavioral patterns of lizards in response to scent of smooth snakes showed that lizards with optimal Tb discriminated and avoided the snake`s scent, whereas lizards with suboptimal Tb did not. We also examined the importance of this effect on movement patterns and refuge use by lizards in terraria with safe (odorless) or unsafe refuges (snake-scented). While results of this experiment were variable, there was evidence of snake avoidance in that lizards at optimal Tb spent less time in snake-scented refuges relative to odorless refuges. Therefore, this study provides evidence that chemosensory discrimination of snake chemicals is thermally dependent, and, thus, suboptimal Tb impedes a lizard`s ability to avoid snake-scented refuges.
Many animals use chemical cues to detect predators. However, according to the threat sensitivity hypothesis, natural selection should favor individuals able to respond differentially to the chemical cues of predators that pose different levels of risk rather than responding to chemical cues of all predators in a similar way. The behavioral responses of prey to chemical cues of predators might depend, for example, on the degree to which predators include prey in their diets. The Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) is under high predation pressure by saurophagous-specialist Smooth Snakes (Coronella austriaca). Wall Lizards are also an important part of the diet of the Montpellier Snake (Malpolon monspessulanus) and occasional prey of the Ladder Snake (Elaphe scalaris). Also, Wall Lizards are sympatric with the non-saurophagous Viperine Snake (Natrix maura). In the laboratory, we compared the tongue-flick rates and behavioral patterns of Wall Lizards in response to exposure to chemical signals of these four snake species that pose different risks of predation. Results suggested that Wall Lizards were able to discriminate the chemical cues of the predatory snakes from the non-saurophagous snake. However, lizards did not respond differentially to chemical cues of different predatory snakes. We suggest that other additional cues are probably needed to elicit an adequate, specific defensive response.
Amo, L. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2005) -
Lizards often respond to predator presence by increasing refuge use. However, this behaviour may expose lizards to saurophagous snakes, which inhabit the same refuges to ambush their lizard prey. Snakes, which are not always visible, deposit chemical trails that can be detected by lizards. Even though there are obvious advantages of using chemical cues, chemical detection of predators might lead to very conservative estimates of risk. This is because chemical cues might indicate that an area was risky in the recent past, but not necessarily at the current time. We examined experimentally whether wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) avoid using refuges that contain chemical cues of smooth snakes (Coronella austriaca), and whether this avoidance response is maintained long term or whether it can be modified. Results suggest that wall lizards detected the chemical cues of smooth snakes inside refuges, and, in the short term, decreased the use of predator-scented refuges and increased their escape movements. However, this avoidance response seemed to decrease in the long term. By investigating the refuge again over subsequent time periods, lizards reassessed whether the snake was actually present, modified their refuge use and decreased their avoidance response. Therefore, wall lizards seem able to assess temporal variations in predation risk by snakes inside refuges and to respond accordingly.
Animals in natural environments usually face different types of predators, and conflict- ing prey defenses can increase risk of predation if prey responses to one predator result in a greater risk from another predator. Wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) respond to predators in the open, such as birds or mammals, by hiding inside rock crevices, where they may be exposed to predation by ambushing saurophagous smooth snakes (Coro- nella austriaca). This offers an excellent system to study how prey behave to avoid multiple predators acting simultaneously. We first performed a field study to examine the escape behavior and refuge use of wall lizards. Lizards mainly responded to the simulated attack by fleeing to hide in the nearest refuge. However, lizards that were far from known refuges sometimes used an alternative escape behavior; lizards fled for longer while passing potential refuges without hiding, thus, presumably avoiding hiding when their reliance in refuge safety was low. This was supported by a further analysis of movement patterns of wall lizards. Spontaneous locomotor patterns could be described as an amount of bursts of locomotion separated by short and long pauses. Lizards stopped near refuges more often, but previously they spent more time in short pauses when moving in or close to refuges exploring them by tongue flicking, than in open rocks. This agreed with a laboratory experiment where we analyzed responses of lizards to substrate scent deposits of smooth snakes. Lizards detected the snake’s scent, and responded by increasing their movement rate in an effort to leave the risky area. However, in the field, after a simulated attack in the open, lizards emerged from the refuge and left the area quickly, decreasing the frequency of short pauses, probably to avoid a new attack in the open. Flexibility in antipredatory behavior may help wall lizards to avoid the risk enhancing effect of two types of predators requiring conflict- ing prey defenses.
Amo, L. & Lopez, P. & Martin, J. (2005) -
We describe the general field population biology of haemogregarines and mites in the wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, examining the factors that determine the prevalence and intensity of infection. The intensity of infection by haemogregarines in females was slightly lower in summer than in spring, whereas males maintained similar levels of intensity among all the seasons, probably due to immunosuppressive effects of testosterone. This is also supported because the prevalence and the infection intensity by mites were higher in males than in females. Parasite load was higher in lizards with better body condition, which could be reflecting the mortality of infected lizards with poor condition.
Amo, L. & Lopez, P. & Martin, J. (2006) -
Nature-based tourism has experienced a greater increase, and, even although it might have deleterious effects for many wildlife species, its consequences remains little explored. Many lizard species are endangered and tourism has been proposed as a potential factor responsible of the decline of several lizards` populations, but no study has examined the effect of tourism on lizards` behaviour, body condition and health state. Many lizards respond to people as if they were predators, by readily escaping to refuges. However, an increase in the frequency of these antipredatory strategies can lead to a loss of body condition, which may have important consequences for short and long term fitness. We analysed the effects of tourism on escape behaviour of common wall lizards, Podarcis muralis, as well as on their body condition and health state (ectoparasites, blood parasites, and cell mediated immune response). Results showed that lizards did not modify their escape behaviour in response to tourism. Lizards had similar approach and flight distances, and escape strategies regardless of the level of tourism pressure. However, lizards inhabiting areas with high tourism levels, where they presumably needed to perform antipredatory behaviours more often, showed higher intensity of infection by ticks and lower body condition at the end of the breeding period. Moreover, lizards with poorer body condition had lower cell mediated immune responses. Therefore, tourism seems to have deleterious effects on body condition and on host-parasite relationships in this lizard species. These effects should be taking into account when designing walking paths in protected areas. Our study reports evidence that regardless lizards showed similar escape behaviour in tourist than in natural areas, their body condition and health state should be also examined to accurately assess the actual effects of tourism on lizards` populations.
The ability to use multiple cues in assessing predation risk is especially important to prey animals exposed to multiple predators. Wall lizards, Podarcis muralis, respond to predatory attacks from birds in the open by hiding inside rock crevices, where they may encounter saurophagous ambush smooth snakes. Lizards should avoid refuges with these snakes, but in refuges lizards can also find non-saurophagous viperine snakes, which lizards do not need to avoid. We investigated in the laboratory whether wall lizards used different predator cues to detect and discriminate between snake species within refuges. We simulated predatory attacks in the open to lizards, and compared their refuge use, and the variation in the responses after a repeated attack, between predator-free refuges and refuges containing visual, chemical, or visual and chemical cues of saurophagous or non-saurophagous snakes. Time to enter a refuge was not influenced by potential risk inside the refuge. In contrast, in a successive second attack, lizards sought cover faster and tended to increase time spent hidden in the refuge. This suggests a case of predator facilitation because persistent predators in the open may force lizards to hide faster and for longer in hazardous refuges. However, after hiding, lizards spent less time in refuges with both chemical and visual cues of snakes, or with chemical cues alone, than in predator-free refuges or in refuges with snake visual cues alone, but there were no differences in response to the two snake species. Therefore, lizards could be overestimating predation risk inside refuges. We discuss which selection pressures might explain this lack of discrimination of predatory from similar non-predatory snakes.
Amo, L. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2007) -
Natural vegetation in Europe appears nowadays deeply modified by human activities. In the Guadarrama Mountains (Central Spain), ancient reforestations with Scots pines, Pinus sylvestris, replaced original deciduous pyrenean oak, Quercus pyrenaica, forests (since the Roman period). However, the effect of reforestations on fauna remains little known, especially in reptiles. We described patterns of microhabitat selection in several species of Lacertid lizards, and analyzed whether the modification of the original vegetation affected distribution and population densities of lizards. The species of lacertid lizards found in oak forests (Psammodromus algirus, Lacerta lepida and Podarcis hispanica) were different to those of in pine plantations (Podarcis muralis and Podarcis hispanica). Lizards did not use habitat at random and this could explain differences in species found in both forests, which differed in some microhabitat structure characteristics. Most lizards selected microhabitats with rocky outcrops, with low cover of trees, and close to refuges. These microhabitat preferences also explained abundance of lizards in transects. From the perspective of conservation and management of lizards, pine plantations seem not to contribute too much to the diversity of lizard species because species typical from oak forests were lost. This study has implications for pine reforestation management, because allowing the recolonization by understory oaks, and leaving some open areas, without trees but with dense shrubs and rocks inside reforestations would contributed to maintain lizard populations.
Amo, L. & Lopez, P. & Martin, J. (2007) -
We analyzed whether habitat deterioration due to ski slopes affected lizards’ behavior, and whether these changes in behavior had consequences for the body condition and health state of lizards. Results suggested that habitat deterioration in ski slopes not only implied a loss of optimal habitat for lizards, but also led to an increase in perceived risk of predation. Males seemed to adjust their movement patterns to differences in risk, increasing their movement speed during their displacements across risky areas within ski slopes, but as a consequence, they incurred loss of body condition. A laboratory experiment supported that fleeing at high speeds in areas without refuges can be a factor responsible for reduced body condition. However, changes in body condition did not affect sprint speed of lizards. Our study provides new evidence that behavioral strategies to cope with increased predation risk, due to human-induced habitat deterioration, may affect body condition of lizards. Our results have applications for the design of conservation plans for this endangered lizard species. Environmental impact studies should be performed before opening new ski slopes, but taking into account not only the presence of lizards but also their body condition. An effective way to decrease the effects of habitat loss may be the artificial restoration of some refuges to create safe corridors for movement.
Amo, L. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2007) -
Lizards often respond to increased predation risk by increasing refuge use, but this strategy may entail a loss of thermoregulatory opportunities, which may lead to a loss of body condition. This may be especially important for pregnant oviparous female lizards, because they need to maintain optimal body temperatures as long as possible to maximize developmental embryos rate until laying. However, little is known about how increased time spent at low temperatures in refuges affects body condition and health state of pregnant female lizards. Furthermore, it is not clear how initial body condition affects refuge use. Female Iberian rock lizards forced to increase time spent at low temperatures showed lower body condition and tended to show lower cell-mediated immune responses than control females. Therefore, the loss of thermoregulatory opportunities seems to be an important cost for pregnant females. Nevertheless, thereafter, when we simulated two repeated predatory attacks, females modified refuge use in relation to their body condition, with females with worse condition decreasing time hidden after attacks. In conclusion, female lizards seemed able to compensate increased predation risk with flexible antipredatory strategies, thus minimizing costs for body condition and health state.
Deforestation may increase predation risk for prey because it may make prey more conspicuous and limit the number of refuges suitable to avoid predators. Therefore, prey may need to increase the magnitude of escape responses. However, excessive antipredatory effort might lead to a loss of body mass and a decrease in defense against parasites, with important consequences for short- and long-term fitness. We analyzed whether Psammodromus algirus (L., 1758) lizards that inhabit patches with different levels of deterioration of the vegetation within the same oak forest differed in relative abundance numbers, microhabitat use, antipredatory strategies, and health state. Results showed lizards selected similar microhabitats regardless of the level of deterioration of the vegetation and relative abundance of lizards was similar in both areas. However, habitat deterioration seemed to increase predation risk, at least for females, because they were detected at longer distances in deteriorated areas. Females seemed to adjust their antipredatory behavior accordingly to high risk of predation by increasing approach distances allowed to predators. The costs associated with frequent antipredatory displays might explain why females in deteriorated habitats had lower body condition and greater blood parasite loads than females in natural areas. This loss of body condition and increased parasitemia might have deleterious consequences for female fitness and therefore affect the maintenance of lizard populations in the long-term.
Prey often respond to predation risk by increasing refuge use, but this strategy may entail a loss of body condition. Factors responsible for this loss of body condition remain unclear. Also how prey deal with refuge use to cope with predation risk without incurring costs of body condition, and how initial body condition affects refuge use remain barely known. We analyzed in the field whether adult Iberolacerta cyreni lizards modify their escape strategies and refuge use in areas with different levels of habitat deterioration and ecotourism pressure, which represent different levels of predation risk, and the consequences of changes in antipredator behavior to body condition. Lizards inhabiting deteriorated areas, where risk is higher, remained closer to refuges, but decreased time spent hidden in refuges after attacks, probably to maintain similar body condition than lizards inhabiting natural areas. We performed two laboratory experiments to isolate potential costs of refuge use that might affect the body condition of male lizards: a) a decrease of the efficiency of digestion due to low temperatures inside refuges and/or b) a reduction in food intake. Results suggest that refuge use is costly in terms of body condition due to reduced food intake, but the loss of efficiency of digestion seems unimportant. Lizards modified refuge use in relation to their body condition, with lizards with worse condition decreasing time hidden after predatory attacks. We concluded that lizards compensated for increased predation risk with flexible antipredatory strategies, coping with risk without incurring costs for body condition.
Amore, G. & Tomassone, L. & Grego, E. & Ragagli, C. & Bertolotti, L. & Nebbia, P. & Rosati, S. & Mannelli, A. (2007) -
Lizards and small rodents were live captured in Tuscany, central Italy, from May through August 2005. Prevalence of infestation by larval Ixodes ricinus L. (Acari: Ixodidae) and mean numbers of larvae per host were not significantly different for common wall lizards, Podarcis muralis Laurenti, and Apodemus spp. mice, whereas infestation levels by nymphs were significantly greater on lizards. Borrelia lusitaniae, which was previously shown to be dominant in host-seeking I. ricinus in the same study area, was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 19.8% (95% confidence interval: 14.4, 26.0) of larval ticks and in 52.9% (27.8, 77.0) of nymphs that were collected from lizards. Moreover, 18.8% (7.2, 36.4) and 25.0 (3.2, 65.1) of lizards` tail biopsies and blood samples, respectively, were positive for B. lusitaniae. Conversely, attached ticks and ear biopsies from Apodemus spp. mice were PCR negative. Passerine birds belonging to 10 species were live captured in March 2005, and Borrelia valaisiana was detected in 57.1% (18.4, 90.1) of I. ricinus nymphs feeding on Eurasian blackbirds, Turdus merula L. Results of this study suggest that lizards play an important role as reservoirs for B. lusitanae and may affect the dominance of this genospecies in the Mediterranean area.
Amphibien/Reptilien-Biotop-Schutz Baden-Württemberg e.V. (2020) -
Amr, Z. & Shebab, A. & Abu Baker, M. (2007) -
Further localities for two species of amphibians [Hyla savigny, Triturus (O.) vittatus] and fourteen of reptiles [Blanus strauchi, Testudo graeca, Chelonia mydas, Mauremys caspica, Asaccus elisae, Cyrtopodion scaber, Laudakia stellio, Trapelus ruderatus, T. persicus, T pallidus, Eumeces schneideri, Ophisops elegans, Varanus griseus, Coluber (H.) nummifer] collected or observed in Syria are given with some notes. Emphasis on trade in reptiles in Syria revealed that at least five species are threatened due to excessive trade, including the Middle Eastern Spur-thighed Tortoise, Testudo graeca terrestris, the Striped-necked Turtle, Mauremys rivulata, the Mediterranean Chameleon, Chamaeleo chamaeleon, the Dabb, Uromastyx aegyptia, and two snakes; Natrix sp. and Coluber jugularis. KURZFASSUNG Es wird über weitere Fundorte von zwei Arten von Amphibien [Hyla savigny, Triturus (O.) vittatus] und vierzehn von Reptilien [Blanus strauchi, Testudo graeca, Chelonia mydas, Mauremys caspica, Asaccus elisae, Cyrtopodion scaber, Laudakia stellio, Trapelus ruderatus, T. persicus, T. pallidus, Eumeces schneideri, Ophisops elegans, Varanus griseus, Coluber (H.) nummifer] berichtet, die in Syrien gefangen oder beobachtet wurden. Zusätzlich werden Angaben über den Lebensraum am Fundort gemacht. Bei der Befassung mit dem Reptilienhandel in Syrien, stellten sich zumindest fünf Arten als durch uneingeschränkten Handel gefährdet heraus, nämlich die Syrische Landschildkröte Testudo graeca terrestris, die Kaspische Bachschildkröte Mauremys rivulata, das Europäische Chamäleon, Chamaeleo chamaeleon, die Ägyptische Dornschwanzagame Uromastyx aegyptia und zwei Schlangenarten, eine Wassernatter (Natrix sp.) und die Pfeilnatter Coluber jugularis.
Amr, Z.S. & Al-Oran, R. & Disi, A.M. (1994) -
A total of 46 reptilian species belonging to 9 families (Gekkonidae, Agamidae, Chamaeleonidae, Scincidae, Lacertidae, Varanidae, Boidae, Colubridae and Viperidae) are reported from Southern Jordan. Bunopus tuberculatus, Tropiocolotes steudneri and Phrynocephalus arabicus are new records, while Coluber elegantissimus is reported for the second time. A. population of horned Cerastes cerastes was found at Disah area. Remarks on the distribution of these reptiles are included. Acanthodactylus boskianus, Acanthodactylus tristrami, Acanthodactylus grandis, Acanthodactylus opheodurus, Acanthodactylus pardalis, Ophisops elegans, Mesalina guttulata, Lacerta laevis kulzeri.
Amr, Z.S. & Al-Sirhan Alenezi, A. & Al-Sayegh, M.T. & Abu Baker, M.A. (2021) -
In this study, we identified the diversity of the freshwater, marine and terrestrial herpetofauna of the State of Kuwait. It consists of a total of 45 extant species; 44 species of reptiles and a single species of amphibian according to recent updated taxonomic studies. All specimens of reptiles collected and held in American and European natural history museums are documented. Four species are added to the herpetofauna of Kuwait: Chalcides ocellatus, Hydrophis lapemo ides, Hydrophis viperina, and Trapelus agnetae.
Amrouche-Larabi, L. & Denys, C. & Boukhemza, M. & Bensidhoum, M. & Hamani, A. & Nicolas, V. & Khiffer, L. Mamou, R. (2015) -
We present the results of several field campaigns, realized from June 2007 to September 2008, and from March 2012 to May 2014 in different Algerian localities (Cap Djinet, Tigzirt, Boukhalfa, Ouadias, El Misser, Darna and Talaguilef). During this field work we have collected 488 specimens belonging to 35 species: 328 small mammals (11 species), 53 amphibians (6 species), 106 squamates (17 species) and one chelonian. The trapping success was highly variable (0.1 to 13.34 %). Genetic and morphometric analyses in progress will improve our knowledge of the evolutionary history of these small vertebrates at population and community scales.
Ananjeva, N. & Borkin, L. & Darevsky, I. & Orlov, N. (1988) -
Ananjeva, N. & Papenfuss, T. & Bafti, S. & Sharifi, M. (2010) -
Ananjeva, N.B. (1971) -
Ananjeva, N.B. (1972) -
This paper reports the results of newest investigations of lizards` demonstration behaviour. A special attention was paid to lizards` aposematic and epigamious reactions which are of great importance when forming couples and defending individual territories. The species differences represent in quite a number of cases the most essential obsacle for the formation of couples of the individuals of different specis, even if the morphological differences of these species are hardly perceptible. Being the determining feature in intra- and inter- species contacts, the demonstration behaviour ensures the integrity of a species.
Ананьева, Н.Б. (1972) -
Ananjeva, N.B. (1976) -
Ananjeva, N.B. (1977) -
Ananjeva, N.B. (1995) -
Ananjeva, N.B. (2003) -
Morphometric evaluation of limb proportions in five sympatric desert lacertas of the genus Eremias, namely E. velox, E. grammica, E. intermedia, E. lineolata, and E. scripta inhabiting southern Balkhash Lake region (Sary-Ishyk-Otrau desert), Kazakhstan, was made. Considerable species differences in proportions of some limb segments associated with locomotion adaptations (burrowing, climbing etc) of these lizards have been found as well as sexual dimorphism and age variability. Associations among morphometric peculiarities (limb proportions), locomotion activity, spatial, temporal, and trophic characteristics of ecological niches of sympatric species are discussed.
Ananjeva, N.B. & Borkin, L.Y. & Darevsky, I.S. & Orlov, N.L. (1998) -
Ananjeva, N.B. & Darevsky, I.S. (2004) -
Ананьева Н.Б. & Даревский И.С. (2004) -
Ananjeva, N.B. & Doronin, I.V. (2020) -
The scientific biography of the outstanding herpetologist and specialist in zoogeography Sergei Alexandrovich Chernov (1903–1964) was reconstructed on the base the study of archival materials and literature sources. The text is divided into four parts, reflecting the main stages of his biography: 1903–1930 – Kharkiv, the beginning of the scientific career; 1930–1941 – relocation to Leningrad, Tajik-Pamir expedition; 1941–1945 – Great Patriotic War and evacuation; 1945–1964 – period after the Great Patriotic War. In the paper, we emphasize the line of teacher–student continuity begun by A.M. Nikolsky and S.A. Chernov in the herpetology department of the Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The appendix contains a list of his publications (52 ti- tles), taxa, described by him (11) and named in his honor (6). In majority of his publications, Chernov was the sole author; most of them were published in Russian; only one paper was written in a foreign (German) language. One of the main achievements of Chernov should be recognized a publication of the Guide of amphibians and reptiles of the USSR together with P.V. Terentyev. He made the greatest contribution to the study of the systematics of lizards and snakes, composition, zoogeography, and the history of the formation of the herpetofauna of Central Asia. According to his studies, the fauna of Central and Central Asia are subsidiaries of the once united region, what contradicted the views of his teacher Nikolsky, who developed the concept of M.A. Menzbir about the young postglacial origin of the Aral-Caspian deserts and the ancient, Eocene origin of the deserts of Central Asia.
Ананьева, Н.Б. & Доронин, И.В. (2020) -
На основе изучения архивных материалов и печатных источников реконструирована научная био- графия герпетолога и зооогеографа Сергея Александровича Чернова (1903–1964). Текст разделен на четыре части, отражающие основные этапы его биографии: 1903–1930 гг. – Харьков, начало научного пути; 1930–1941 гг. – переезд в Ленинград, Таджикско-Памирская экспедиция; 1941–1945 гг. – Великая Отечественная война и эвакуация; 1945–1964 гг. – послевоенный период. В тексте мы подчеркиваем продолжающуюся в отделении герпетологии Зоологического института РАН линию преемственно- сти «учитель–ученик», начатую А.М. Никольским и С.А. Черновым. В приложении дается список пу- бликаций ученого (52 наименования), опубликованных в 1926–1971 гг., таксонов, описанных им (11) и названных в его честь (6). В большинстве работ Чернов выступил единственным автором; при жизни на иностранном (немецком) языке была написана только одна работа. Одним из главных достижений Чернова следует признать издание совместно с П.В. Терентьевым определителей амфибий и рептилий СССР. Наибольший вклад он внес в исследование систематики ящериц и змей, состава, зоогеографии и истории формирования герпетофауны Средней Азии. Согласно его исследованиям фауна Средней и Центральной Азии – дочерние участки некогда единой области, что противоречило взглядам его учи- теля Никольского, развившего концепцию М.А. Мензбира о молодом послеледниковом происхождении Арало-Каспийских пустынь и древнем (эоценовом) – пустынь Центральной Азии.
Ananjeva, N.B. & Mazanaev, L.F. (2021) -
Н.Б. Ананьева & Л.Ф. Мазанаева. (2021) -
Ananjeva, N.B. & Milto, K.D. (2021) -
Н.Б. Ананьева & К.Д. Мильто. (2021) -
Ananjeva, N.B. & Milto, K.D. & Barabanov, A.V. & Golynsky, E.A. (2020) -
A complete catalogue is provided for the type specimens of amphibians and reptiles collected by Nikolay A. Zarudny and stored mostly in the herpetological collection of the Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia (ZISP), as of August 2018. The collection contains 270 type specimens, representing 51 taxa (species and/or subspecies) of one family of turtles, one amphisbaenia family, five lizard families and four snake families from 74 type localities. As a result of studying Zarudny’s collections, mainly from Iran, was the description by A. M. Nikolsky of two new genera, Microgecko and Diplometopon, and 42 species and subspecies (varieties). Twenty-two of these taxa are regarded currently as valid.
Ananjeva, N.B. & Orlov, N.L. & Khalikov, R.G. & Darevsky, I.S. & Ryabov, S.A. & Barabanov, A.V. (2006) -
TERRA TYPICA. Settlement Tengizbai, Altai Range. DISTRIBUTION. It occurs in the mountains of Tien Shan system and northern Pamir-Altai within the limits of Kyrgyzstan, Ferganskaya valley in Uzbekistan and northern Tajikistan. The record of this species in the extreme south-east of Kazakhstan (Terskei-Alatau) needs to be confirmed more precisely. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species does not require special conservation measures.
TERRA TYPICA. Isfahan city, central Iran. DISTRIBUTION. It occurs in the south of Turkmenistan where two isolated populations are known – in the valley of the river Kushka and the depression Er-Oilan-Duz in the Badkhyz Nature Reserve. The main distribution is situated within Iran, in the central and eastern parts of the Iran Plateau. CONSERVATION STATUS. A common species on the territory of Turkmenistan. Species with a stable number lives on the protected territory of the Badkhyz Nature Reserve.
TERRA TYPICA. Town Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan. DISTRIBUTION. It occurs in the left-bank valley of the river Aras in Armenia and in Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan, i.e. approximately from the town Echmiadzin in the west up to the southern foothills of the Megrinsky range. Outside of the eastern Transcaucasia it occurs in the extreme east of Turkey and in the north-western Iran. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species does not require special conservation measures.
TERRA TYPICA. Alashan desert. DISTRIBUTION. It is distributed mainly in the north China (Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region) and in Mongolia, from where it penetrates into the territory of the neighbouring Tuva. In North Eurasia the species is widely distributed in the western and southern Mongolia (Ubsunur, Kobdo, Dzabkhan, Gobi-Altai, Bayan-Khongor, Uwer-Khangai, South-Gobi, East-Gobi, Middle- Gobi aimaks) and in Tuva [in Russia]. In the flood-plain of the river Nariin-Gol lives the subspecies E. p. tuvensis Szczerbak, 1970. CONSERVATION STATUS. E. p. tuvensis is included into the Red Data book of the Russian Federation (2001): category 3 – rare species within the limits of Russia known on the northern periphery of the distribution range.
TERRA TYPICA. Town Shirabad, Surkhandar’inskaya region, Uzbekistan. DISTRIBUTION. It occurs in the extreme south-east of Turkmenistan, south of Uzbekistan and in the south-western Tajikistan. Outside of Middle Asia the Tajik Racerunner is known from northern Afghanistan. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species is included into the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan (1999) as a rare species – category 3.
TERRA TYPICA. Region between the Aral and Caspian Seas. DISTRIBUTION. The species is distributed in sandy deserts of Middle Asia, Kazakhstan, eastern Iran, adjacent regions of Afghanistan and northern Belujistan (Pakistan). In North Eurasia it occurs in Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, western Tajikistan and southern Kazakhstan. The northern border of the distribution range runs in Kazakhstan, from north-western coasts of the Caspian Sea along the northern area adjacent to the Aral Sea and southern area adjacent to the Balkhash Lake up to the basin of Alakul Lake in the east. Three subspecies are described, which differ mainly by the color pattern of the dorsal surface of the body. E. s. scripta Strauch, 1867 occupies the most part of the distribution range in Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan. E. s. lasdini Tzarevsky, 1918 lives in the south-east of Uzbekistan and south-western Tajikistan. E. s. pherganensis Szczerbak et Washetko, 1973 is known from Ferganskaya valley, mainly in the northern Tadzhikistan. CONSERVATION STATUS. Fergana Sand racerunner E. s. pherganensis is included into the Red Data Book of Uzbekistan (2003): category 1, EN – endangered, locally distributed endemic subspecies, and of Tajikistan (1997) – the category an endangered subspecies.
TERRA TYPICA. Town Echmiadzin, Armenia. DISTRIBUTION. In North Eurasia the species is distributed in the eastern Transcaucasia: the valley of the middle current of Aras river, from the south-eastern foothills of the Karabakh range and the valley of Bargushat in the south-east up to the southern spurs of the mountain Aragaz and Oktemberyanskaya steppe in the west, in the Karabakh desert and on the plateau Zuvand, as well as in the south-western Turkmenistan (southern slopes of the mountain ranges Kyupendag, Karagez and Kopet Dagh). Eremias strauchi occurs in eastern Turkey and in the north-west and north-east of Iran, in Iranian Azerbaijan. The species is differentiated into two subspecies. The nominative subspecies is distributed in the eastern Transcaucasia, as well as in the eastern Turkey and Azerbaijani provinces of north-western Iran. The second subspecies, E. s. kopetdaghica Szczerbak 1972 is distributed in Kopet Dagh, northern Khorasan and eastern Mazanderan (Turkmenistan and Iran). CONSERVATION STATUS. The species does not require special protection measures.
TERRA TYPICA. Kyrgyzstan, region of the Lake Issyk Kul, vicinity of the town Przhevalsk. DISTRIBUTION. This form of the complex “Eremias multiocellata” is distributed in the basin of the Lake Issyk Kul. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species does not require special protection measures.
TERRA TYPICA. Kyrgyzstan, valley of Arpa River. DISTRIBUTION. This form of the complex “Eremias multiocellata” is distributed in the basin of the river Naryn in Kyrgyzstan, the valley of the rivers At-Bashi and Arpa. Foothills of Moldo-Too, Baibishe- Too, Yaman-Too, At-Bashi and Naryn-Too. CONSERVATION STATUS. Not determined.
the Ural River). DISTRIBUTION. Rapid racerunner is a widely distributed species, occurring from the eastern part of the North Caucasus and lower region of the Volga River to northern Iran, Afghanistan and eastwards up to north-western China (Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region., Inner Mongolia and Hansu Province). In North Eurasia the distribution range of the species stretches into the eastern Ciscaucasia, lower region of Volga River, eastern Transcaucasia in the lowland Georgia and Azerbaijan, Middle Asia and Kazakhstan. Several subspecies are described, of which three subspecies occur within the limits of the countries of North Eurasia. E. v. caucasica Lantz, 1828 inhabits eastern Ciscaucasia and Transcaucasia. The most part of the distribution range is occupied by the nominative subspecies E. v. velox, and in the Issyk Kul hollow occurs the subspecies E. v. borkini Eremchenko et Panfilov, 1999, described from the Tien Shan mountains, in Kyrgyzstan (southern shore of the Lake Issyk Kul, from the region between the rivers Ak-Terek and Ak Sai). CONSERVATION STATUS. The species does not require special protection measures.
TERRA TYPICA. Eastern Turkestan, Yarkend, Kashgaria, China (Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region). DISTRIBUTION. The main distribution range of the species is situated in north-western China (Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region, Inner Mongolia) and in Mongolia (Gobi-Altai, Bayan- Khongor, South-Gobi aimaks). An isolated population lives in the Zaissan hollow in the south-east of Kazakhstan. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species is included into the Red Data Book of Kazakhstan (1996): category 4 – not investigated species with a limited distribution range.
TERRA TYPICA. Town Yarkend, Kashgaria, China (Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region). DISTRIBUTION. The distribution range of this species is marked by the Tarim basin which includes the southern slopes of Tien Shan, piedmont plains and foothills of Kunlun and eastern Pamir (excluding sands Takla-Makan) in China and eastern Alai in Kirghizia. Earlier this form was considered as a subspecies of multiocellated racerunner E. multiocellata Gunther, 1872. CONSERVATION STATUS. Not determined.
TERRA TYPICA. South Sweden. DISTRIBUTION. Sand lizard is one of the most widely distributed Eurasian species; its distribution range covers the most part of Europe from western France and north of the Balkan Peninsula to Eastern Siberia, north-western Mongolia and western China in the east (Chinese part of the Mongolian Altai). On the territory of North Eurasia the species occurs from western borders of Moldova, the Ukraine, Belarus, the Baltic States and Russia in the west to the northern area adjacent to Lake Baikal and southern Trans-Baikal area in the east, more or less in parallel with the north border of taiga. It inhabits the Caucasus and Kazakhstan in the south. It is known from Mongolia (Kobdo aimak). In the south-east distribution range covers the eastern Semirechye, north-western Mongolia (Kobdosky aimak) and the western part of Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region in China. From there it penetrates into Issyk-Kul depression in Kyrgyzstan. Data on the records in piedmonds of Turkestan and Seravshan mountain ranges in eastern Uzbekistan are erroneous Ten subspecific forms are distinguished, the following seven occur in the former Soviet Union. L. a. chersonensis Andrzejowsky, 1832 – Moldova, the right-bank Ukraine, Belarus, the Baltic States, Leningrad region and south of the neighbouring Karelia. In the east, approximately from the left-bank valley of the river Dnieper a narrow area of intergradation with the neighbouring eastern subspecies is noted. L. a. exigua Eichwald, 1831 occupies the whole eastern part of the distribution range up to the Crimean Peninsula and Ciscaucasia in the south. L. a. grusinica Peters, 1960 inhabits the coast of the Black Sea and submontane regions of the Caucasus in the south-west of the Krasnodar Territory, Abkhazia, in the Colchis lowland and Ajaria. L. a. brevicaudata Peters, 1958 occurs in northern and western Armenia, southern Georgia and on the southern slopes of the Great Caucasus range within the North Ossetia. L. a. ioriensis Peters et Muskhelischwili, 1968 occurs on the southern slopes of the Caucasian range: in the valley and ravine of the upper current of the river Iori in Georgia. L. a. boemica Suchow, 1929 inhabits submontane regions of North Ossetia, Ingooshetia, Chechnya and Dagestan. L. a. tauridica Suchow, 1926 inhabits the southern montane Crimea. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species is included into the Red Data Book of Latvia (2003) and Estonia (1998). Its conservation status (category 2) corresponds to the same status of the Bern convention.
TERRA TYPICA. Tiflis city (=Tbilisi), Georgia. DISTRIBUTION. The most part of the distribution range in North Eurasia is situated in the Caucasus. There it is noted in the Transcaucasia, in eastern and northern Georgia, submontane and montane regions of Azerbaijan and Armenia, as well as in river valleys in interior Dagestan. Besides, it occurs on the coast of the Black Sea of the Krasnodar Territory, Abkhazia and Ajaria. Outside of the Caucasus it is encountered in the eastern Turkey and northwestern Iran. One of the three subspecies, L. m. media Lantz et Cyren, 1920, occurs in the Caucasus. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species is included into the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation (2001): category 3 – a rare species within the limits of Russia with distribution on the extreme northern border of its range. Female (left) and male (right) of Medium Lizard
TERRA TYPICA. Krasnovodsk, southern Turkmenistan. DISTRIBUTION. L. strigata is widely distributed in North Eurasia. It lives predominantly in the eastern half of the Caucasus, at least up to the latitude of the towns Armavir and Stavropol in the Stavropol Territory in the north-west and the valley of the river Terek and lower reaches of the river Kuma in Dagestan in the north-east. In the eastern Transcaucasia it mainly occurs in the lowland regions of Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia, where it is not known to the west of the Suramsky range. Until recently an isolated population existed in the area of the cape Pizunda in Abkhazia. It also occurs in the south-west of Turkmenistan. Outside of the Caucasus it is known from eastern Turkey and northern Iran. CONSERVATION STATUS. On the most part of the distribution range the number of the species is stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Vienna, Austria. DISTRIBUTION. It is distributed in middle and southern Europe, in the north-western part of Asia Minor, on the most part of Moldova and south-west of the right-bank Ukraine. On the valley of the river Dnieper it nearly reaches Kiev. In its middle current it appears in the left-bank area, where on the valley of the river Vorskla reaches the Poltava city in the region with the same name. Of five described subspecies L. v. viridis Laurenti, 1768 occurs in the Ukraine and in Moldova. CONSERVATION STATUS. On the most part of the distribution range the number of the species is stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Basminsk, between Tebriz and Teheran, northern Iran. DISTRIBUTION. The species is distributed in the north-western Iran, in the provinces Eastern Azerbaijan and Esfahan. On the territory of North Eurasia the only record is known in 1880 in the south-eastern Azerbaijan (Talysh). CONSERVATION STATUS. Uncertain due to poor knowledge on the species.
TERRA TYPICA. Kaiseri, Asia Minor (Turkey). DISTRIBUTION. It is widely distributed in Asia Minor, from where it also penetrates into central and northern Armenia. At present the species is preserved mainly in the Spitak region where it is observed only on areas of difficult access and on unplowed areas. CONSERVATION STATUS. It is included into the Red Data Books of the USSR (1984) and Armenia (1987) as an endangered species. It is protected by the Bern Convention. This species was referred to subgenus Parvilacerta Harris, Arnold et Thomas, 1998. This subgenus includes 2 species: Parvilacerta fraasii (Lehrs, 1910) and Parvilacerta parva (Boulenger, 1887).
TERRA TYPICA. Synd, between Karachi and Sukkur. DISTRIBUTION. The species is widely distributed on the whole Iranian Plateau and in Afghanistan, comes into southern Turkmenistan. In North Eurasia it occurs only in the south of Turkmenistan up to the vicinity of the town Chärjew in the east. Previously this form was considered as a subspecies of M. guttulata. CONSERVATION STATUS. In Turkmenistan the status of the populations is rather stable and does not require special conservation measures. It is protected on the territory of the Badkhyz Nature Reserve.
TERRA TYPICA. Vicinity of Baku city, Azerbaijan. DISTRIBUTION. The species is widely distributed in the northeast of the Balkan Peninsula, some islands of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, Sinai Peninsula, Asia Minor, Middle East and the Caucasus to Pakistan and north-western India in the east. On the territory of North Eurasia it occurs in the Caucasus in Azerbaijan, Armenia and eastern Georgia, approximately to the city Tbilisi in the west. There are data which require confirmation about the occurrence of an isolated population in the North Caucasus in the submontane Chechnya. Of six known subspecies only O. e .elegans occurs in the Transcaucasia. CONSERVATION STATUS. The status of the populations on the whole distribution range is stable and does not require special protection measures.
TERRA TYPICA. North of the Crimean Peninsula. DISTRIBUTION. The distribution range of the species covers the countries of the Balkan Peninsula, western Turkey, as well as the south of the Ukraine and Moldova. It is widely distributed in the Crimea, in the Kherson, Nikolaev and Odessa regions in the southwest of the Ukraine and in the south of Moldova. Of several known subspecies P. t. taurica occurs in the Ukraine and in Moldova. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species does not require special measures on its protection.
TERRA TYPICA. Amur region. DISTRIBUTION. It occurs in north-eastern China, Korea and Japan (the island Zussima). In North Eurasia it lives in Russian Far East – in the southern regions of the Primorsky and Khabarovsk Territories. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species does not require special measures on its protection.
TERRA TYPICA. Chemul’po, Korea. DISTRIBUTION. It occurs in Korea, south-east Manchuria and eastern China from where it penetrates into the south of the Primorsky Territory approximately to the valley of the river Iman in Russia. CONSERVATION STATUS. Not determined.
Vienna, Austria. DISTRIBUTION. One of the most widely distributed Eurasian species. A common species in the northern half of Eurasia from Ireland and the Pyrenean Peninsula in the west to the Shantarskie islands, the Sakhalin island and northern Japan in the east. It occurs in Mongolia, in the Mongolian Altai, in Bain-Ulug, Khubsugul and Central aimaks, China (Chinese Altai in the Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region). In Russia the northern border of the distribution range from the coast of the Kola Peninsula in the north-west continues behind the Polar Circle up to the lower current of Yenisei River. Further to the east it crossed the valleys of Lena River and its tributaries (Vilyui and Aldan). In Far East it comes out to the sea somewhat to the south of the valley of the river Uda. The southern border of the distribution range from the Trans-Carpathians continues to the east between forest-steppe and steppe. In Ukraine the most southern, evidently isolated habitats are known in the Novomoskovsk district of the Dnepropetrovsk region. It occurs everywhere on the Sakhalin Island. On the whole extensive distribution area of the viviparous lizard four subspecies are distinguished: Zootoca vivipara carniolica Mayer, Böhme, Tiedemann & Bischoff, 2000, Zootoca vivipara pannonica (Lac & Kluch, 1968), Zootoca vivipara sachalinensis (Pereleshin & Terentjev, 1963) and Zootoca vivipara vivipara (Jacquin, 1787). In North Eurasia the subspecies Z. v. vivipara (Jacquin, 1787) and Zootoca vivipara sachalinensis (Pereleshin & Terentjev, 1963) are distributed. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species does not require special measures on its protection.
TERRA TYPICA. Settlement Terskol on the Baksan River, Kabardino- Balkaria, Russia. DISTRIBUTION. Endemic of the high-mountainous Caucasus. It occurs in the high-altitude part of the western half of the Great Caucasus Range – from Elbrus in the east to the mountains Fisht and Osten in the west. The eastern border of the distribution range runs in the upper reaches of Baksan River on the south-eastern slopes of Elbrus and mountain Cheget in Kabardino-Balkaria. Further to the west it is widely distributed in the upper reaches of the rivers Kuban’, Teberda, Zelenchuck, Laba, Belaya and others flowing down to the north. It inhabits the southern slopes of the Caucasus: in the upper reaches of the Bzyb River and its tributaries in Abkhazia and the upper reaches of Mzymta River in the southeast of the Krasnodar Territory. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number is rather stable everywhere within of its distribution range. The species is included into the Red Data Book of IUCN with the status DD.
TERRA TYPICA. Settlement Yelenovka (= Sevan) on the shore of the Sevan Lake, Armenia. DISTRIBUTION. It is widely distributed in the mountains of northwestern and northern Armenia and adjacent regions of southern Georgia and western Azerbaijan. Outside of the Caucasus it is also known from the north-western Turkey. In 1967 D. armeniaca was introduced into the Ukraine. At present this parthenogenetic species formes a stable extensive population in the rock canyon of Teterev River of the Zhitomir region. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number is high and stable everywhere within the whole distribution range.
TERRA TYPICA. Settlement Krasnaya Polyana in the south of the Krasnodar Territory, Russia. DISTRIBUTION. Endemic of the montane Caucasus. It is widely distributed in the western part of the Great Caucasus Range, on northern, western and south-western slopes of the Black Sea chain of the Great Range in the Krasnodar Territory, Abkhazia and north-western and south-western Georgia, to the canyons of the rivers Kodory and Ingury in lower and upper Svanetia in the east. The northern border of its distribution passes in the area of the middle current of numerous left tributaries of the Kuban River. The most northern habitats of the species are known in the vicinity of Goryachyi Klyuch on Psekupsa River and the vicinity of the town Maikop. The southern border of the distribution range stretches on the southern slopes of the Great Range and, gradually lowing down, on the western spurs of the Gagra range. It comes out to the sea in the south of the Krasnodar Territory and western Abkhazia, where it is sporadically recorded on the coast from the ALPINE LIZARD DAREVSKIA ALPINA (DAREVSKY, 1967) ARMENIAN LIZARD DAREVSKIA ARMENIACA (MEHELY, 1909) BRAUNER’S ROCK LIZARD DAREVSKIA BRAUNERI (MEHELY, 1909) 81 L A C E R T I D A E town Anapa in the north up to the canyons of the rivers Khoby and Riony in the south-west of Georgia. The nominative subspecies D. b. brauneri occurs in the south of the Krasnodar Territory, in Abkhazia and adjacent regions of Georgia. D. b. darevskii (Szczerbak, 1962) inhabits foothills of the western part of the Great Caucasus range, mainly within the Krasnodar Territory. A comparatively small range of the subspecies D. b. szczerbaki (Lukina, 1963) occupies a narrow strip of coastal rocky steeps, sporadically occurring along the coast of the Black Sea from the town Anapa in the north and for more than 100 km further to the south-east towards Novorossiisk. CONSERVATION STATUS. On the most part of the distribution range the number of the species is rather high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Kazbek Mountain, Georgia. DISTRIBUTION. Endemic of the Great Caucasus. It is widely distributed on the northern and southern slopes of the Great Caucasus Range from the northern foothills of Elbrus in Kabardino-Balkaria in the west up to the south-eastern extreme point of its Caspian chain within Azerbaijan in the east. South-western border of the distribution range passes on the southern foothills of Megrel’sky, Svanetsky and Lekhchumsky mountain ranges in lower Svanetia, and then coming down within South Ossetia approximately up to the latitude of the health-resort Dzhava. Along the southern spurs of Kharul’sky, Kartalinsky and Kakhetinsky mountain ranges it comes out into the slopes of the Water Dividing (Watershed) Range in the Alazan River valley of Georgia. In Azerbaijan this border continues in the upper reaches of the rivers beginning from the Great Range, and further in the east – from the slopes of the mountains Baba- Dag and Dyubrar, in particular of the rivers Pirsagat and Sumgait. This lizard is also widely distributed on the northern slopes of the Great Caucasus, from the Baksan ravine in Kabardino-Balkaria in the west to Samur range in the South Dagestan in the east. The north-western border of the distribution area passes here in the Baksan ravine approximately from the town Tegenekly in the south, continuing then to the east on the northern foothills of the Skalisty and Bokovoi ranges. There the most northern habitats are known from the ravine Adyr-su, near the waterfall in the Chegemskaya gorge, from the vicinity of the Blue Lakes in Kabardino-Balkaria and the vicinity of Alagir and the settlement Balta in the lower part of the Dar’yal ravine of North Ossetia. In the foothills and on the northern slopes of the Andiysky mountain range in the south-eastern Chechnya and possibly in the adjacent part of Ingooshetia occurs a narrow-ranged subspecies D. c. vedenica (Darevsky et Roitberg, 1999). CONSERVATION STATUS. The number of the species everywhere within its distribution range is high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Town Enzely, Iran, southern coast of the Caspian Sea. DISTRIBUTION. It inhabits mainly forested northern and northwestern foothills of the Elburz range in northern Iran and Lenkoran lowland in the south-eastern foothills of the Talysh range in the south-east of Azerbaijan. There the most northern habitats are known from the valley of Vilyazhchai River. CONSERVATION STATUS. On the most part of the distribution range the number of the species is high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. 20 km to the west from the settlement Borchka, vilajet Artvin, north-eastern Turkey. DISTRIBUTION. The main distribution range of the species occupies the northern spurs of the East-Pontic mountains in the north-east of Turkey, at least up to the vilajet Giresun in the west. A small isolated area of the distribution range is known on the western slopes of the mountain Mtirala in the vicinity of the town Batumi in the south-west of Ajaria (Georgia). CONSERVATION STATUS. As a rare species the species was included into the Red Data Book of the USSR (1984) – category 3 and the Red Data Book of IUCN with the status ENC2a.
TERRA TYPICA. Settlement Levashi in the region with the same name of central Dagestan. DISTRIBUTION. It occurs in the montane Dagestan, southern Chechnya, Ingooshetia and south-east of north Ossetia, from the lower part of the Dar’yal ravine in the west up to Gimrinsky range in the east. The northern border of the distribution area passes in the foothills of the Skalisty range in the upper current of numerous right tributaries of Sunja River. Further on the extreme north-eastern foothills of the frontal ranges of Dagestan it attains the nearest vicinity of Makhachkala city in the east. An isolated population lives also on the southern slope of the Great Caucasus range in the canyon of the river Bol’shaya Liakhvy on the territory of South Ossetia in Georgia. CONSERVATION STATUS. On the most part of the distribution range the number is stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Settlement Shagaly, Armenia. DISTRIBUTION. It is comparatively widely distributed in the north Armenia and southern Georgia up to the foothills area in the valley of Kura River in the north. The recent distribution range is divided into some isolated populations. CONSERVATION STATUS. On the most part of the distribution range the number is stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Valley of Lar, to the north-west of Teheran, northern Iran. DISTRIBUTION. The distribution range of the species covers practically all Alborz range in the north of Iran and adjacent east Kopet Dagh range both in its Iranian part and in the south of the neighbouring Turkmenistan. In Turkmenistan the species is very rare and once it was considered to be extinct. In central Kopet Dagh it is known here from a few points in the ravines Sushanka and Bol’shie Karanki. CONSERVATION STATUS. In Iran the number of the species is high and stable. In Turkmenistan the number is catastrophically declining. The species is included into the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan (1999): category 3 – a rare species on the periphery of the distribution range.
TERRA TYPICA. Vicinity of the town Artvin, north-eastern Turkey. DISTRIBUTION. South-west of the Krasnodar Territory, western and north-eastern Georgia and the extreme north-west of Azerbaijan. Outside of the Caucasus it occurs on the extreme north-east of Turkey. Of 6 described subspecies 5 are distributed in the Caucasus. D. d. silvatica (Bartenjev et Reznikova, 1931) inhabits submontane part of the Krasnodar Territory mainly in the Caucasian Biosphere State Reserve and the adjacent spurs of the Great Caucasus. D. d. boehmei (Bischoff, 1982) lives in the western spurs of the Great Caucasus in Krasnodar Territory and adjoining regions of Abkhazia up to the valley of the river Kodor in the south-east. D. d. abchasica (Bischoff, 1982) inhabits the coast of the Black Sea of Abkhazia and the adjacent regions of western Georgia, D. d. barani (Bischoff, 1982) is known from coastal mountain regions of Ajaria and of neighbouring part of north-eastern Turkey. D. d. orlowae (Bischoff, 1984) inhabits southern slopes and foothills of the Great Caucasus in Georgia and north-western Azerbaijan. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number is rather high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Ravine of small Charnali River in the lower reaches of the river Chorokh in the extreme south-west of Ajaria (southwestern Georgia) and the adjacent part of Turkey. DISTRIBUTION. It occurs on a limited territory in the north-eastern foothills of the Pontic range, within extreme south-west of Ajaria in Georgia and adjoining regions of north-eastern Turkey. The distribution is not sufficiently studied. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number is rather high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. The Crimean Peninsula. DISTRIBUTION. The distribution range of the species is limited by the mountain Crimea from Sevastopol in the west up to the cape Kiik-Atlam near the town Feodosia in the east. The northern border of the distribution range runs on the northern slopes of the Crimean Mountains through the towns Bakhchisarai, Simferopol and the vicinity of the settlement Vishennoe in the Belgorod region. A small isolated population lives on the rocks Adalary near Gurzuf. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number is rather high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Town Abastumani in south-western Georgia. DISTRIBUTION. Endemic of Georgia. The recent distribution range forms some more or less extensive isolates mainly situated on the slopes of the Meskhetsky range within Ajaria and western Georgia up to Borzhomi ravine in the valley of Kura River and north-western slopes of Trialetsky range in the east. Isolated populations live on the southern slopes of Lechkhumsky and Rachinsky ranges in the foothills of Great Caucasus, where this lizard is known from the vicinity of the towns Kutaisi, Tkvibuli and the health-resort Labarde. Its distribution in the foothills of the Great Caucasus Range is still not sufficiently studied. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number in the most of known populations is rather high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Town Artvin, north-eastern Turkey. DISTRIBUTION. The distribution range of the species covers north-eastern Turkey (approximately from Erzerum in the west and from the valley of the upper current of Aras River in the south) and northern and southern foothills and spurs of the Meskhetsky range within Ajaria and neighbouring regions of Georgia from the coast of the Black Sea in the west up to the middle current of Kura River in the east. There are local isolated populations in the ravines of several lateral tributaries of the river Kura (Akhaldaba, Baniskhevi, Azkuri and others). In Georgia and in the ravine of the lower current of river Chorokh in Turkey occurs subspecies D. p. adjarica (Darevsky et Eiselt, 1980). The remaining part of the distribution range is occupied by the nominative subspecies D. p. parvula. CONSERVATION STATUS. On the most part of the distribution range the number of the species is high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. City Tiflis (= Tbilisi), Georgia. DISTRIBUTION. The main distribution range of the species occupies right-bank section of the valley of middle current of Kura River and the ravine of its right tributaries within Georgia, northern Armenia and north-western Azerbaijan. It covers the area from Gori in the west up to northern foothills of the ranges of the Lesser Caucasus in the lower and middle current of the rivers flowing into Kura River: Algeti, Khrami, Debeta, Akstafa-chai, Gyandzhachai and others in the south-east. Big population, isolated now from the main distribution range, is known in the valley of middle current of the left tributary of Kura River – river Iori on the southern slopes of the Zivgamborsky range. A great zoogeographical interest represents an isolated population of this species discovered in south-western Azerbaijan, in the ravine of upper current of Akar River, belonging to the basin of Aras River. Presence of D. portschinskii in the southern foothills of Lesser Caucasus can be connected with a radical reconstruction of river systems which was taking place on the territory of Transcaucasia in the postglacial period. The nominative subspecies D. p. portschinskii occupies the most part of the distribution range. In the ravines of right tributaries of Kura River – the rivers Mashavera in Georgia and Debeta in Armenia – occurs D. p. nigrita (Bakradze, 1976). CONSERVATION STATUS. On the most part of the distribution range the number is high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Settlement Narzan, North Caucasus. DISTRIBUTION. It occurs in the north-west of the Balkan Peninsula from one side and within the Caucasus and adjacent part of Iran from the other side. It is sporadically distributed on the both sides of the Great Caucasus Range within the limits of the Krasnodar and Stavropol Territories, in Kabardino-Balkaria, North Ossetia, Chechnya, Ingooshetia and Dagestan, and in the Transcaucasia – on the coast of the Black Sea of Abkhazia, in north Georgia, northern Azerbaijan. Isolated part of range lies in south-east Azerbaijan and in the north of Armenia. D. p. praticola inhabits the most part of the distribution range. D. d. pontica (Lantz et Cyren, 1919) inhabits the coast of the Black Sea and north-western Caucasus. CONSERVATION STATUS. On the most part of the distribution range the number is high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Vicinity of the settlement Ijevan, Armenia. DISTRIBUTION. It has a comparatively limited distribution range in the northern Armenia and adjacent regions of Azerbaijan. The recent distribution range is divided into several more or less isolated populations. One of them, now extinct, existed on the north-eastern shore of the Lake Sevan in Armenia. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number is stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Town Trapezund (Trabzon), north-eastern Turkey. DISTRIBUTION. The species is widely distributed, mainly in the western Transcaucasia, and in the north – in the montane Ingooshetia, Chechnya, neighbouring Dagestan and in northern Ossetiya. Outside of the Caucasus it is widely distributed in the northern half of Turkey. Of eight described subspecies the five occur in the Caucasus. D. r. bischoffi (Boehme et Budak, 1977) occurs in Ajaria. D. r. obscura (Lantz et Cyren, 1936) inhabits the valley and adjoining slopes of mountains of the upper current of Kura river within Georgia. D. r. macromaculata (Darevsky, 1967) is recorded in the ravine of the right tributary of Kura River, river Akhalkalakichai in southern Georgia. D. r. svanetica (Darevsky et Eiselt, 1980) occurs in the ravine of the upper current of the river Inguri in Svanetia (western Georgia). D. r. chechenica (Eiselt et Darevsky, 1991) is widely distributed on the southern slopes of the Great Caucasus from lower Svanetia in the west up to northwestern Azerbaijan in the east, and also isolatedly on the northern slopes within the limits of the montane Chechnya and Dagestan. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number of the species is high and stable everywhere.
TERRA TYPICA. Town Kislovodsk, Stavropol Territory. DISTRIBUTION. The main distribution range of the species covers the northern slopes of the Rocky range within Karachaevo- Cherkesskaya Autonomous Region, south of the Stavropol Territory and Kabardino-Balkaria, from the valley of the upper current of Kuban’ River and its tributaries in the west up to the ravine of the middle current of the river Chegem in the east. The most northern isolated population (which was considered as extinct) lives in the southern foothills of the Stavropol Upland, in the limits of the Alexandrovsky region of the Stavropol Territory. The southern border of the distribution range passes on the north-eastern spurs of the mountain Elbrus in the ravine of the river Kuban, and, crossing the Rocky Range (known from the Mariinsky pass), continues further on its watershed in the upper reaches of the rivers Kuma, Podkumok, Alikanovka, Beryozovaya, Zolka and others. On the ravine of the river Baksan it comes up to the town Tyrny-Auza and goes from the Chegem waterfalls up along the Chegem River gorge. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number is high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Settlement Akhta, ravine of the river Razdan, northern Armenia. DISTRIBUTION. The distribution range of the species is divided into several isolated populations within the northern and central high-mountain Armenia and the adjacent regions of eastern Turkey, from where along the valley of Kura River this lizard penetrates into southern Georgia. Outside of the Caucasus it occurs in the valley of the river Aras in eastern Turkey. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number is high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. Town Bazarchai (Basarkent), Sisiansky region, eastern Armenia. DISTRIBUTION. The recent distribution range of the species is divided into several of more or less extensive isolates, attributed to the steppe high-mountain regions of the mountain-steppe zone of Armenia, Azerbaijan, southern Georgia and eastern Turkey. The most extensive areas of the distribution range are occupied by the high-mountain zone of the Gegamsky range up to the shores of Sevan Lake in the north, a ring-like high-mountain area of the Aragaz mount and a high-mountain plateau in the foothills of the Childyrsky and Javakhetsky ranges in the extreme north-west of Armenia and adjoining regions of southern Georgia. Besides, it is encountered on the Ardenissky range confining the basin of Sevan Lake from the south. Further to the east it inhabits all high-mountain part of the Karabakh Upland within the limits of Nagorny Karabakh. Outside of the Caucasus, covering the mountains, surrounding the Lake Van, the species is widely distributed in north-eastern, eastern and south-eastern Turkey, at least from the range Palandeken in the vilajet Erzerum in the west. Probably it penetrates into the high-mountain region of extreme west on the territory of the neighbouring Iran. Three subspecies are described. The nominative subspecies D. v. valentini is distributed in the whole Transcaucasia. D. v. lantzicyreni (Darevsky et Eiselt, 1967) occurs on the most part of Turkey. The third subspecies D. v. spitzenbergerae (Eiselt, Darevsky et Schmidtler, 1992) is known only from the type locality in the vilajet Khakyari in the extreme south-east of Turkey. CONSERVATION STATUS. On the most part of the distribution area the number of the species is high and stable.
TERRA TYPICA. China, Chifu (now Yantai, Shandun Province). DISTRIBUTION. The species is widely distributed in the eastern part of Mongolia, in China (from the lake Kukunor up to Shanghai city), in the western part of the Korean Peninsula and in Russia, in the southern Buryatia (to the north approximately up to Ulan- Ude city) and in the extreme south-west of the Chita region. In Mongolia the most part of the findings are attributed to the north and east from the range Khangai in Kobdos, Gobi-Altai, Dzabkhan, Bayan-Khongor, South-Gobi, Middle-Gobi, Central, Bulan, Selengin, Khentei, East-Gobi, Sukhe-Bator and Eastern aimaks. Of two known subspecies within North Eurasia occurs the western one – E. a. barbouri Schmidt, 1925. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species (E. a. barbouri) is included into the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation (2001): category 4 – species uncertain in its status distributed in Russia on the extreme border of its distribution range.
TERRA TYPICA. Interstream area of the rivers Ural and Emba. DISTRIBUTION. The distribution range stretches from northeastern Romania in the west to south-western Mongolia (Jungar Gobi) and north-western China (Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region and Inner Mongolia) in the east, Turkey and Iran in the south. Within the limits of North Eurasia it is widely distributed from the steppe zone of Moldova, the Ukraine and the European part of Russia including North Caucasus and the area of the Volga river in the west, to Kazakhstan, the Republics of Middle Asia and Mongolia in the east. In Mongolia records are known in the southern part of the Kobdos aimak and in the Gobi-Altai aimak. Disjuncted from the main distribution range the species occurs in the eastern Transcaucasia, within the limits of Azerbaijan, eastern Georgia and the basin of the Sevan Lake in Armenia. The most northern, evidently isolated habitats are known in the Volzhsko-Kamsky Territory from the Samara bend and Buzuluksky coniferous forest. The species is divided into 6 subspecies which are different, in particular, by the above-described types of the coloration of the body and the size proportions. E. a. arguta (Pallas, 1773) – is distributed in the western Kazakhstan. E. a. deserti (Gmelin, 1789) – occupies the whole western part of the distribution range from the river Ural in the east up to the eastern part of the North Caucasus in the south-west. E. a. transcaucasica Darevsky, 1953 inhabits eastern Transcaucasia, E. a. uzbekistanica Chernov, 1934 – Uzbekistan and the frontier regions of Turkmenistan, southern Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. E. a. darevskii Tsaruk, 1986 – Issyk Kul hollow in Kyrgyzstan. E. a. potanini Bedriaga, 1912 lives in the area adjacent to the Balkhash Lake and Zaisan hollow in Kazakhstan. CONSERVATION STATUS. The steppe – runner E. a. potanini is included into the Red Data Book of Mongolia (1997) as a rare species, it is protected on the territory of the Great Gobi reservation. E. a. uzbekistanica is included into the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan (1999) as a species which habitats are destroyed the number of is reducing (category 2). E. a. transcaucasica is included into the Red Data Book of Armenia (1987) with the status “species disjuncted from the main distribution range”. E. a. deserti is included into the Red Data Book of Moldova (2001): category – Critically Endangered species.
TERRA TYPICA. Karakum, Turkmenistan. DISTRIBUTION. Middle Asia within the plains of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, middle and southern Kazakhstan. The northern border of the distribution range runs in Kazakhstan, in some places nearly attaining 49°N. Outside of Middle Asia it also occurs in the north-east of Iran (eastern Khorasan), in the adjacent plain regions of Afghanistan to the north of Hindu Kush, as well as in the east up to the western regions of the Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region, China. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number is stable and does not require special measures on its maintenance.
TERRA TYPICA. Kyzyl Kum, region of Aral-Caspian deserts. DISTRIBUTION. Middle Asia within the limits of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, extreme west of Tajikistan and Kazakhstan. The northern border of the distribution range stretches in Kazakhstan from the north-eastern coast of the Caspian Sea and northern coasts of the Aral Sea to the north of the Balkhash Lake across the desert Betpack-Dala up to the basin of the Lake Alakol’. CONSERVATION STATUS. The number is stable. The species does not require species conservation measures.
TERRA TYPICA. Settlement Sary-Jaz, ravine Terekty, Kyrgyzstan. DISTRIBUTION. This form of the complex “Eremias multiocellata” is known from the central Tien Shan (basin of the river Sary-Jaz), Kyrgyzstan and China (Xinjiang-Uyghur Autonomous Region, including Kashgaria in the southern Tien Shan). Populations of this species were referred earlier to Eremias buechneri. CONSERVATION STATUS. Undetermined.
TERRA TYPICA. Betwen Faizabad and Nuzi, eastern Iran. DISTRIBUTION. The republics of the Middle Asia within Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, southern and south-eastern Tajikistan and south of Kazakhstan, where it occurs isolatedly in the area adjacent to the Balkhash Lake. Besides, it is distributed in the north-eastern Iran (Khorasan) and northern Afghanistan. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species does not require special conservation measure.
TERRA TYPICA. Desert Gobi, the road between Sume and river Tola, Mongolia. DISTRIBUTION. It inhabits montane and partly submontane regions of Tien Shan and Pamir-Altai in Kyrgyzstan, eastern and south-eastern Kazakhstan and neighbouring Uzbekistan. It is known in Tuva and widely distributed in Mongolia (Bayan Ulug, Kobdo, Ubsunur, Dzabkhan, Gobi-Altai, Bayan-Khongor, Uver- Khangai, South-Gobi, Eastern-Gobi and Middle-Gobi aimaks). It is also known from north-western China southwards to the mountain ranges of Nan Shan and north-eastern Tibet, in the desert Alashan and the southern part of Mongolia in the east. During recent years the taxonomic status of some subspecific forms was revised, they are considered as separate species. CONSERVATION STATUS. As a narrow-ranged and small in number species it is included into the Red Data Book of Kazakhstan (1996): category 4 – a rare species, known by single specimens.
TERRA TYPICA. Sistan, Iran. DISTRIBUTION. It occurs in the extreme south-east of Turkmenistan, in southern Uzbekistan and in the south-west of Tajkistan up to Kurgan-Tyube and Pyandzh river in the north-east of Iran and in the north of Afghanistan. CONSERVATION STATUS. The species is included into the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan (1999): category 2 – species, the habitats and number of which are sharply reducing, and into the Red Data Book of Uzbekistan (2003) – vulnerable, reducing, mosaically distributed species (2/VU:D).
TERRA TYPICA. Settlement Nyuvadi in the ravine of the Aras River, south-east Armenia. DISTRIBUTION. It is widely distributed in the mountains of Lesser Caucasus, in the most part of the southern and northern Armenia, southern and southern-east Azerbaijan and the ravine of the upper current of Kura River in western Georgia. In the Transcaucasia the distribution range consists of many isolated populations of different size associated with the ravines of small rivers flowing down to the river Aras in the south, and tributaries of the river Kura in the north. Outside the Caucasus it occurs in eastern Turkey (to the east of the Lake Van) and in the adjacent north-western Iran. AZERBAIJAN LIZARD DAREVSKIA RADDEI (BOETTGER, 1892) MEADOW LIZARD DAREVSKIA PRATICOLA (EVERSMANN, 1834) RI V ER KURA LIZARD DAREVSKIA PORTSCHINSKI I (KESSLER, 1678) 88 88L A C E R T I D A E The southern border of its distribution range is not exactly determined. Intraspecific taxonomy is still not clear. Three subspecies are described. The nominative subspecies D. r. raddei inhabits the most part of Armenia and Azerbaijan, in the basin of the Lake Sevan in Armenia (mainly in the western part of the republic). In the ravine of the upper current of the river Kura in Georgia occurs D. r. nairensis, considered by some taxonomists as a distinct species. D. r. vanensis (Eiselt, Schmidtler et Darevsky, 1993) occurs in the eastern part of the basin of Lake Van in Turkey and in the neighbouring Iran. CONSERVATION STATUS. In the most part of the distribution range the number of the species is high and stable.
Ananjeva, N.B. & Tsellarius, A.Yu. (1986) -
Anatolievna, A.G. & Vitalievich, V.E. (2012) -
Анатольевна, А.Г. & Витальевич, В.Е. (2012) -
Andelkovic, M. & Urosevic, A. & Golubovic, A. & Nikolic, S. & Tomovic, L. (2016) -
We tested intra-population morphological variability and the ontogeny of sexual dimorphism in a sample of 78 individuals of Lacerta agilis (Linnaeus, 1758) from the Bistra Mountain in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. The effect of predation was also assessed by examining the animals’ tails. In 43.8% of individuals of all age classes tails were missing or regenerated, which means that lizards are subjected to high predation at this locality. After measuring, marking and photographing, all animals were released into their natural habitat. The set of 17 linear measurements and body mass were taken for each individual, and snout-vent length was taken as a standard descriptor of body size. Among adults, significant sexual dimorphism was recorded in body size, head dimensions and distance between front and hind limbs, while sexual dimorphism was not observed in juveniles. Females had greater body size and distance between front and hind limbs, while males had proportionately larger heads. Static allometric trajectories of adult females and males were assessed, and they diverged only for head and mouth width. Divergence of ontogenetic allometric trajectories was significant for all measurements except the dimensions of the fourth toe on the front and hind limbs. Sexual dimorphism pattern in sand lizards from Bistra Mountain was in concordance with previous studies. Larger adult female body size could be interpreted as a result of sexual selection for fecundity, while larger male heads could result from selection for greater bite force in two ways: intra-sexual selection (between males) in relation to territory defense, and inter- sexual in relation to copulatory bites. Sexual dimorphism was not significant among juveniles: adults apparently attain a different morphology through diverging allometric trajectories during growth. Further studies should include populations of sand lizards from different habitat types to further assess patterns of intra-specific morphological variability.
Andelkovic, M.Z. & Lakusic, M.D. & Bjedlica, V.G. & Mauricic, M.S. & Danon, G.G. & Urosevic, A.M. & Tomovic, L.M. (2022) -
Anderholm,S. & Olsson, M. & Wapstra, E. & Ryberg, K. (2004) -
To investigate the impact of nuptial coloration (the badge) on male fitness in the Swedish sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), we conducted a manipulation experiment in a natural population. Males in one group had their badges enlarged by being painted as cheaters and were compared to a control group with respect to mate acquisition, body condition and survival. Badge enlargement did not affect survival, but elevated mate acquisition by almost 400%, and body condition in small males. This increase in condition is likely to stem from greater access to female-associated sites with high food availability.
Andersen, K.T. (1930) -
Anderson, J. (1871) -
Anderson, J. (1872) -
Anderson, J. (1895) -
Anderson, J. (1896) -
Anderson, J. (1898) -
Anderson, J. (1901) -
Anderson, S. & Al Johany, A.M.H. & Els, J. (2012) -
Anderson, S. & Sharifi, M. & Papenfuss, T. & Bafti, S.S. (2009) -
Anderson, S.C. (1963) -
One hundred seventy-seven species of amphibians and reptiles in sixty-fiv genera have been recorded from within the political boundaries of Iran. The actual number of species may prove to be somewhat less when problems of synonymy have been more extensively investigated. Thirty-three species or 19 per cent of the known herpetofauna, are represented in the present collection. The majority of these (21 species) were collected in the western foothills of the Zagros Mountains in southwestern Iran. Relatively few collections have been made in Iran, and many species have been recorded from single localities. Many taxonomic problems must await the collection of further specimens and examination of typical material. Distribution is incompletely known for all species. Many of the early locality records are not precise, and require confirmation. The aridity and prolonged hot season impose severe limitations on the fauna of the foothill region of southwestern Iran. The length of the growing seasonn varies with the duration of the winter and spring rainy season. The vegetation is almost entirely herbaceous in this area, and is extensively grazed by sheep and goats. By late spring the hills are completely denuded, The large numbers of insects, which coincide with the blooming of herbaceous plants in the spring, dwindle through the summer. Grasshoppers and ants form the bulk of the food supply for many species throughout the summer. Various behavioral adaptations enable the amphibians and reptiles to survive the long summer. Foraging activity begins in the early morning hours, diurnal lizards quickly reaching temperatures of normal activity by exposing a maximum surface area to the direct rays of the sun. As ambient temperatures rise, the period of activity is extended by utilization of small areas of shade (particularly the case with lacertids), brief dashes being made into direct sunlight. The agamid lizards may remain in the sun, but position themselves so that the sun´s rays strike a minimum surface area, and at a small angle. Agama agilis ascends low bushes during extremely hot periods, and thus may escape much of the reradiated heat from the hot ground surface. The agamid lizards may benefit from changes in their albedo. They are dark in color when basking, and much lighter during the heat of the day. These color changes may supplement behavioral temperature regulation. The reptiles retreat to shelter during the hottest hours. Deep crevices in limestone outcrops provide shelter for Agama nupta, Mabuya aurata septemtaeniata, and several of the snakes. Agama agilis and Eremias guttulata watsonana seek refuge under small rocks or in rock piles on level ground. The latter species also utilizes small holes and cracks in the hard-packed soil. A few small streams persist throughout the summer, ofter only as intermittent pools. In many dry stream beds, moisture may be found a few inches beneath the surface. A moist, cool, microclimate is also maintained in small caves and ssinkholes in the gypsium formations. These areas provide a summer refuge for the amphibians, and shelter nocturnal reptiles during the day. These cracks and crevices are also utilized by Agama nupta during the hottest hours, and presumably at night. Several species of geckos and snakes are able to exist in the area due to their nocturnal habits, and the fact that temperatures do not drop below their normal activity range at night during the summer. Dune-dwelling species are able to escape the severe midday temperatures by retreating the burrows a few inches below the sand surface. Anal temperatures indicate that the normal activity range for most of the diurnal lizards of southwestern Iran is between 38.0° and 42.0°C. Uromastix loricatus was actively foraging at times when its anal temperature exceeded 43°C. Agama agilis was consistently found in direct sunlicht, the anal temperature above 40°C. Critical maximum temperatures for most diurnal lizards are between 46° and 49°C. Both Uromastix loricatus and Scincus conirostris recovered from temperatures above 50°C. Cowles and Bogert (1944) found that the normal activity range of diurnal lizards of the deserts of the southwestern U.S. was approximately 35°-43°C., and that the lizards preferred temperatures of about 37°C. They found that lizards avoided temperatures above 40°C. Critical maximum temperatures were reported to bte 43°-49°C. As air and surface temperatures increased during the late spring and summer in southwestern Iran, a shift in the periods of reptilian activity was noted. During the moderate spring temperatures, activity was confined to the midday hours. By midsummer, foraging activity was noted only during the earliest daylight hours,a nd again in late afternoon. A detailed zoogeographic analysis of the Iranian herpetofauna must await more extensive locality data, and the analysis of many systematic problems. Nevertheless, it is apparent that the several geographic and ecologic provinces of Iran are characterized by distinct differences in the composition of their faunas. Southwestern Iran and the northwestern highlands have a greater number of species with Mediterranean affinities than do the regions east of the Zagros Mountains. Southeastern Iran shares species with Pakistan and India, while elements of the Central Asia fauna are present in the northeast of the country. Apparently there is a relatively high degree of ebndemism on the central plateau of Iran. A European fauna prevails north of the Elburz Mountains on the south coast of the Caspian Sea. The majority of amphibians and reptiles known Iran are restricted in their distribution to the Middle East. Southwest Asia has apparently existed as a geographic unit long enough to have developed a characteristic herpetofauna, particularly at the species level. Acanthodactylus cantoris blanfordi, Acanthodactylus cantoris schmidti, Eremias guttulata watsonana, Ophisops elegans elegans.
Anderson, S.C. (1968) -
Anderson, S.C. (1974) -
Acanthodactylus cantoris blanfordi, Acanthodactylus cantoris schmidti, Acanthodactylus fraseri, Acanthodactylus micropholis, Apathya cappadocica urmiana, Eremias arguta, Eremias brevirostris, Eremias fasciata, Eremias grammica, Eremias guttulata, Eremias intermedia, Eremias lineolata, Eremias nigrocellata, Eremias persica, Eremias pleskei, Eremias scripta, Eremias strauchi, Eremias velox velox, Lacerta brandtii, Lacerta chlorogaster, Lacerta princeps princeps, Lacerta princeps kurdistanica, Lacerta saxicola defilippii. Lacerta saxicola raddei, Lacerta strigata, Lacerta trilineata media, Ophisops elegans.
Anderson, S.C. (1999) -
Acanthodactylus blanfordi, Acanthodactylus boskianus, Acanthodactylus grandis, Acanthodactylus micropholis, Acanthodactylus nilsoni, Acanthodactylus opheodurus, Acanthodactylus schmidti, Eremias acutirostris, Eremias andersoni, Eremias arguta, Eremias fasciata, Eremias grammica, Eremias intermedia, Eremias lalezharica, Eremias lineolata, Eremias nigrocellata, Eremias nigrolateralis, Eremias persica, Eremias pleskei, Eremias scripta, Eremias strauchi strauchi, Eremias strauchi kopetdaghica, Eremias velox velox, Lacerta brandtii, Lacerta cappadocica urmiana, Lacerta chlorogaster, Lacerta defilippii, Lacerta media media, Lacerta mostoufi, Lacerta praticola praticola, Lacerta princeps princeps, Lacerta princeps kurdistanica. Lacerta raddei raddei, Lacerta raddei vanensis, Lacerta steineri, Lacerta strigata, Lacerta valentini valentini, Lacerta zagrosica, Mesalina brevirostris brevirostris, Mesalina brevirostris fieldi, Mesalina watsonana, Ophisops elegans.
Anderson, S.C. (2000) -
Relatively little is known about the ecology of lizards in Iran. This paper serves as a brief introduction to five representative biotopes and their associated lizard species living syntopically, based largely on my own observations. The selected localities are found in 1) Masjed Soleyman, foothills of the Zagros Mountains, Khuzestan; 2) Kupal dunes, on the Mesopotamian Plain, Khuzestan; 3) Shah ‘Abbas Caravanserai, Dasht-e Kavir, on the Central Plateau; 4) an abandoned village in Sistan, ruined buildings and loose loess substrate; 5) Hyrcanian Forest, northern slopes of lower Alborz Mountains and the Gorgan region. The biotopes are characterized briefly and the concept of syntopy is discussed.
Anderson, S.C. & Leviton, A.E. (1967) -
Anderson, S.C. & Leviton, A.E. (1969) -
The collection of amphibians and reptiles made by the Street Expedition to Afghanistan 1965 consists of 247 specimens, including six species of amphibians and 38 species of reptiles. Definite Afghan localities are recorded for the first time for the following species: Agama agrorensis, Agama erythrogaster, Agama himalayana, Agama lehmanni, Agama nuristanica (new species herein described), Agama abdakhshana (new species herein described), Cyrtodactylus watsoni, Hemidactylus flaviviridis, Eremias nigrocellata, Eryx elegans (type was recorded as coming from Afghanistan, but n precise locality was given, An analysis of the zoogeographic significance of this and other collections from Afghanistan is contemplated for the future. Acanthodactylus cantoris, Eremias guttulata watsonana, Eremias nigrocellata, Eremias velox persica.
Andersson, K. & Bergling, S.-A. (2003) -
Andersson, L.G. (1903) -
Andersson, L.G. (1935) -
Acanthodactylus boskianus, Eremias rubropunctata, Latastia spinalis.
Ando, S. & Ciarcia, G. & Panno, M.L. & Imbrogno, E. & Tarantino, G. & Buffone,M. & Beraldi, E. & Angelini, F. & Botte, V. (1992) -
Progesterone (P), 17-OH-progesterone (17-OH-P), androstenedione (A), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone (T), 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT), and 17β-estradiol (E2) were measured by RIA in plasma and testes of 114 males of the oviparous lizard Podarcis s. sicula raf, a species that displays annual hibernating cycles. Hormones were determined each month from January until December, except for August. Testosterone peaked at 174.8 ng/ml of plasma after emergence (March), while 5α-DHT and A peaked in April. Plasma DHEA increased during hibernation. During the refractory period there were progressive increases in P and E2 plasma levels. The testicular peak of T, in March, coincided with that observed in plasma. The striking increases in testicular T and A in early July occurred at a time when plasma androgen concentrations were low. 5α-DHT increased in April when spermatogenesis with spermiation occurred and then decreased alongside a second peak of T. There is an apparent separation of plasma and testicular androgen concentrations during the reproductive cycle.
Ando, S. & Fanna, M.L. & Ciarcia, G. & Imbrogno, F. & Buffone, M. & Beraldi, E. & Sisci, D. & Angelini, F. & Botte, V. (1990) -
Progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, testosterone and oestradiol concentrations in the plasma were measured by simultaneous radioimmunoassay in males of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula. Hormonal determinations were performed at monthly intervals from January to December (except for August). Testosterone and androstenedione reached peak values of 174.8 ng/ml and 21.4 ng/ml in the mating season (spring) and then testosterone fell abruptly to 5.9 ng/ml in June remaining at this level during hibernation when dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA) reached a maximal level of 28.5 +/- 9.3 ng/ml. Castration resulted in a marked decrease of testosterone, androstenedione, dihydrotestosterone and DHA values, with DHA being significantly lowered only during the winter season. In castrated animals, however, testosterone and androstenedione persisted conspicuously in the plasma during the breeding period, suggesting that adrenal sex steroid output may change during the annual reproductive cycle. In intact animals, progesterone and oestradiol exhibited peak values during the refractory period after the mating season. We suggest a probable role of oestradiol in the induction of the refractory period in this lizard.
Andrä, E. (2014) -
Andrada, J. (1980) -
Andrade, P. & Pinho, C. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Alfonso, S. & Brejcha, J. & Rubin, C.-J. & Wallerman, O. & Pereira, P. & Sabatino, S.J. & Bellati, A. & Pelitteri-Rosa, D. & Bosakova, Z. & Bunikis, I. & Carretero, M.A. & Feiner, N. & Marsik, P. & Paupério, F. & Salvi, D. & Soler, L. & While, G.M. & Uller, T. & Font, E. & Andersson, L. & Carneiro, M. (2019) -
Reptiles use pterin and carotenoid pigments to produce yellow, orange, and red colors. These conspicuous colors serve a diversity of signaling functions, but their molecular basis remains unresolved. Here, we show that the genomes of sympatric color morphs of the European common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), which differ in orange and yellow pigmentation and in their ecology and behavior, are virtually undifferentiated. Genetic differences are restricted to two small regulatory regions near genes associated with pterin [sepiapterin reductase (SPR)] and carotenoid [beta-carotene oxygenase 2 (BCO2)] metabolism, demonstrating that a core gene in the house-keeping pathway of pterin biosynthesis has been coopted for bright coloration in reptiles and indicating that these loci exert pleiotropic effects on other aspects of physiology. Pigmentation differences are explained by extremely divergent alleles, and haplotype analysis revealed abundant transspecific allele sharing with other lacertids exhibiting color polymorphisms. The evolution of these conspicuous color ornaments is the result of ancient genetic variation and cross-species hybridization.
Andrei, M.-D. (2002) -
The author updates the knowledge on the herpetofauna of southern Dobruja according to his own studies within the area, during 1993-1998, when he identified 18 taxa. They represent 37.5% of the total amphibian and reptile species from Romania. Also the author makes some remarks on respective ecosystems and on the urgent protection need of some species.
Andrén, C. (2004) -
Amphibian and reptile species likely to occur in the Simpevarp SKB special area of investigation are listed with comments on their distribution, status, biology and environmental demands. The species are Triturus vulgaris (Smooth newt), T cristatus (Great crested newt), Bufo bufo (Common toad), Rana arvalis (Moor frog), R temporaria (Common frog), Lacerta agilis (Sand lizard), L vivipara (Common lizard), Anguis fragilis (Slow-worm), Coronella austriaca (Smooth snake), Natrix natrix (Grass snake) and Vipera berus (Adder). A short field study was performed mainly to verify the presence of suitable habitats for the species listed. Findings of amphibians and reptiles as well as their potential habitats are noted by geographical codes and additional remarks are given to interesting findings. Altogether 38 findings of five different species of amphibians and reptiles were done in 18 localities. Of special interest is the record of sand lizard, which probably indicate a colony in the vicinity even though this could not be confirmed.
Andrén, C. & Berglind, S.-A. & Nilson, G. (1988) -
Andren, C. & Nilson, G. (1976) -
Andren, C. & Nilson, G. (1979) -
Andrén, C. & Nilson, G. & Ioannides, Y. & Dimaki, M. (2007) -
Andreone, F. (2003) -
Andreone, F. & Sindaco, R. (1989) -
Andres, A. (1911) -
Andres, C. & Franke, F. & Bleidorn, C. & Bernhard, D. & Schlegel, M. (2014) -
The Sand lizard Lacerta agilis inhabits a huge area across Eurasia with several subspecies. Nine subspecies are generally approved, L. a. agilis, L. a. argus, L. a. bosnica; L. a. chersonensis, L. a. exigua, L. a. grusinica, L. a. iorinensis, L. a. brevicaudata and L. a. boemica, but several more have been described. The emergence of this large number of subspecies is connected with the phylogeographic history of this species, defined by geographic and climatic processes. A study revealing phylogenetic relationships of this species was already conducted with a broad taxon sampling and coverage. However, the latter study was based solely on the cytochrome b gene and, furthermore, the Balkan Peninsula inhabited by the subspecies L. a. bosnica was underrepresented. This peninsula is a centre of European herpetofaunal endemism with high levels of phenotypic and genotypic variation. Therefore, the inclusion of the subspecies L. a. bosnica is important to clarify the overall view of the phylogenetic relations within the Lacerta agilis subspecies complex and to investigate the level of population differentiation within this highly diverse area. Thus, the aim of the present study was a more thorough analysis of the Balkan Peninsula with a broader taxon sampling. Furthermore, we extended the available datasets by adding the mitochondrial d-loop region and by further samples of different areas of the distribution range apart from the Balkan Peninsula. Our study reveals that the Balkan Peninsula is apparently inhabited by several differentiated lineages, whereby the Central Greek lineage might deserve subspecies status. Furthermore, the distribution area of the two subspecies L. a. agilis and L. a. argus should be revised, as the results of our study raise doubt about the commonly assumed distribution of both subspecies. As the most important outcome our results support that L. a. boemica deserves species status.
Andres, C. & Franke, F. & Bleidorn, C. & Bernhard, D. & Schlegel, M. (2015) -
The sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) inhabits a huge area across Eurasia with several subspecies. Nine subspecies are generally approved, L. a. agilis, L. a. argus, L. a. bosnica; L. a. chersonensis, L. a. exigua, L. a. grusinica, L. a. iorinensis, L. a. brevicaudata and L. a. boemica, but several more have been described. The emergence of this large number of subspecies is connected with the phylogeographic history of this species, defined by geographic and climatic processes. Within Germany two subspecies exist according to Bischoff (1988), L. a. argus und L. a. agilis, which are separated based on morphological features. However, the existence of these two subspecies was questioned by Rahmel (1988) and by Elbing et al. (1996). We conducted phylogenetic analyses based on the cytochrome b gene sequences from specimen of L. a. agilis and L. a. argus with samples covering their whole distribution range. These sequences already have been published before by Andres et al. (2014) and Kalyabina-Hauf & Ananjeva (2004). Our study challenges the commonly assumed distribution of L. a. agilis und L. a. argusand their status as distinct subspecies. Therefore their genetic status and distribution range should be thoroughly analysed and revised in future studies.
Andreu, M.J. & Dávila, J. C. & Calle, A. de la & Guirado, S. (1994) -
In contrast to the view of a diffuse monoaminergic innervation of the telencephalon, studies on the monoaminergic innervation in certain mammalian isocortical regions have shown a high degree of regional and laminar specificy. The present study was designed to examine the distribution patterns of dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin in a telencephalic structure, the anterior dorsal ventricular ridge, of the sand lizard Psammodromus algirus (Lacertidae) using specific antibodies against each monoamine. The anterior dorsal ventricular ridge receives an abundant monoaminergic innervation compared to that of cortical telencephalic regions. The distribution of the different monoamines presented zonal and regional patterns throughout the ridge. The cell cluster zone was profusely innervated by catecholamines, whereas no serotoninergic fibers innervated the cell bodies in the cluster zone. On the other hand, the periventricular zone was heavily innervated by serotonin, but catecholaminergic fibers were almost lacking. With regard to regional patterns, dopamine exhibited major differences in the mediolateral axis of the anterior dorsal ventricular ridge: dopaminergic innervation was densest in the lateral region, which in other reptiles is described as a target of visual thalamic projections. Whereas the zonal pattern of the monoaminergic innervation of the anterior dorsal ventricular ridge seems to be a constant feature in the reptiles studies to date, the regional pattern varies among reptilian groups, especially taking into account the density of monoaminergic innervation.
Andreu, M.J. & Dávila, J. C. & Real, M.A. & Guirado, S. (1996) -
We have studied the intrinsic connections of the anterior dorsal ventricular ridge (ADVR) in the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus by means of retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and fluorescent labeling with the lipophilic carbocyanine dye DiI. We injected HRP into different regions in the ADVR arrayed in a medial-to-lateral sequence, with each consisting of three distinct superficial-to-deep zones. When HRP was injected into a given region, many labeled neurons (always located ipsilateral to the injection site) were found at all mediolateral regions of ADVR in locations rostrally distant from the injection site. DiI crystals were applied on different superficial-to-deep zones within each region. Two patterns could be recognized: DiI crystals applied on the periventricular (most superficial) zone resulted in a labeling of cells widely distributed throughout the ADVR independently of the mediolateral region of the application site, whereas DiI crystals applied on deeper zones resulted in a staining of cells mostly restricted to a narrow radial area. Results from both types of labeling confirm that the ADVR has a prominent radial component in its intrinsic organization, but they also demonstrate that some areas of the ADVR receive projections from distant, rostrally located neurons in every ipsilateral region of the ridge itself, which establishes a clear non-radial component. This organization may have important functional properties with regard to a putative integration of different sensory modalities conveyed by thalamic afferent fibers to the ADVR. Last, we analyzed some evolutionary implications of our results.
Andreuccetti, P. & Famularo, C. & Gualtieri, R. & Prisco, M. (2001) -
The present histochemical and cytochemical study using a lectin panel (WGA, GSI-A4, GSI-B4, PSA UEA-I, PNA, LCA, Con-A , DBA, MPA, BPA) has demonstrated that, in Podarcis sicula, the differentiation of small follicle cells into pyriform cells by means of intermediate cells is accompanied by the appearance of glycoproteins bearing a-GalNAc terminated O-linked side chains on the cell surface. The distribution of DBA- and MPAbinding sites over the follicular epithelium changed during the different stages of oocyte growth. DBA- and MPA-binding sites first appeared at the beginning of folliculogenesis within the zona pellucida (ZP) and on the surface of small cells, i.e., the stem cells of pyriform cells. Afterward, labeling was evident on the cell surfaces of intermediate cells and, later on, also of pyriform cells. On the other hand, no labeling was detected on the small cells located under the basal lamina, which, reportedly, do not differentiate into pyriform cells (Filosa et al. J. Embryol. Exp. Morphol., 1979; 15:297-316). Once pyriform cells were differentiated, the distribution of DBA- and MPA-binding sites over the follicular epithelium remained unchanged until intermediate and pyriform cells underwent apoptosis (Motta et al. J. Exp. Zool., 1996; 276:233-241) and the follicular epithelium transformed into a monolayer composed of small follicle cells only (Filosa Mon. Zool. Ital., 1973; 7:151–165). During this stage of oocyte growth, DBA and MPA labeling gradually decreased to completely disappear in the follicular epithelium of vitellogenic follicles. It is noteworthy that the observed changes in the distribution of DBA- and MPA-binding sites represent the f`rs ı t evidence recognized by lectins of a gradual modification of surface glycoprotein distribution over the follicular epithelium in the ovarian follicles of nonmammalian vertebrates so far studied. Finally, the zona pellucida (ZP), characterized by the presence of GalNAc, GluNAc, Man, and Gal, was demonstrated to be first synthetized by the oocyte and later on by the follicle cells.
Andreuccetti, P. & Taddei, C. & Filosa, S. (1978) -
Intercellular bridges first appear during lizard oogenesis when follicles are rather small (150 /tm in diameter); at this stage they form connecting links between the oocyte and follicle cells, which have not yet differentiated into pyriform cells. Later on, when the follicles have become larger (1 mm) and the follicular epithelium appears constituted by 3 types of cells (small, intermediate and pyriform cells) they form connecting links between the oocyte and both intermediate and pyriform. cells. The establishment of intercellular bridges between pyriform cells and the oocyte precedes the complete differentiation of the former, which excludes the possibility that the fusion between pyriform cells and oocyte occurs only after these cells are completely differentiated. In still larger follicles (up to 2 mm in diameter), during the degeneration of the pyriform cells, the occurrence, inside the bridges, of mitochondria and other cytoplasmic material suggests that these cells at the end of their function transfer their contents into the oocyte.
Andreuccettii, P. & Taddei, C. (1990) -
Ultrastructural studies suggest that, in the oocytes of the lizardPodarcis sicula, ribosomal bodies are structurally continuous with annulate lamellae during their organization and disaggregation. This observation may indicate the dynamic transformation of the cytomembranes of one structure into those of the other, and vice versa. Moreover, the presence of annulate lamellae has been detected for the first time in lizard oocytes. The hypothesis is advanced that ribosomal bodies and annulate lamellae, in spite of some different structural characteristics, may play a similar role during the oocyte growth.
Andreyushkova, D.A. & Lisachov, A.P. & Romanenko, S.A. & Giovannotti, M. & Pereira, J.C. & Ferguson-Smith, M.A. & Borodin, P.M. & Trifonov, V.A. (2019) -
Andrijczuk, C. (2009) -
Am 07.08.2006 wurden zwei juvenile Lacerta agilis in einer Falkenzuchtvoliere in einem Falkenzuchtbetrieb in Helvesiek, Niedersachsen (TK 25: 2723.3.11; 53° 13’N, 9° 29’O) unter einer reflektierenden Badebrente aus V²A-Stahl gefunden. Unter der Badebrente herrschte eine Temperatur von 23,4°C über dem Boden herrschten 27,35°C und 2 m über dem Boden 26°C. Somit befanden sich die Eidechsen an dem scheinbar kühlsten Punkt der Voliere, was ein Zeichen von höherer Affinität zu niedrigeren Temperaturen von juvenilen Lacerta agilis ist. Die Voliere wird in ihrem Aufbau beschrieben mit ihren Strukturelementen (niedrige Vegetation, Kiesbahn entlang den geschlossenen Wänden aus Buchen- und Koniferenholz. Ebenfalls sind Schattenplätze vorhanden, jedoch herrscht eine hohe Temperatur in Bodengrundnähe aufgrund der Grundvegetation und der umseitig geschlossenen Wände. Das ist der erste Nachweis von Eidechsen in einer Voliere auf dem Betriebsgelände, außerhalb der Volieren gibt es jedoch mehrere (auch adulte) Zauneidechsen. Die beschriebene Voliere könnte ein potentielles Eidechsenhabitat repräsentieren, in Kombination mit einem hohen Insektenaufkommen aufgrund von Futterresten (Fleisch und andere Gewebe) die in der Falkenzucht unvermeidbar sind. Es ist denkbar, dass mehr Eidechsenvorkommen in ähnlichen Tierhaltungseinrichtungen möglich sind, jedoch ist dafür eine Kontaktaufnahme mit den Betreibern unerlässlich, da die Anlagen in der Regel nicht öffentlich sind. Dies könnte helfen, neue oder bisher unbekannte Populationen und Vorkommen von Zauneidechsen oder anderen Reptilienspezies festzustellen.
Andriopoulos, P. & Pafilis, P. (2016) -
Andriopoulos, P. & Pafilis, P. (2019) -
Andronikov, V.B. Danielyan, F.D. & Passinkova, R.A. (1994) -
The extent of resistance of animal cells and tissues to injurious heat effect is a cytophysiological criterion of species. In poikilotherms it can be determined both by phylogenetic relations and ecological conditions of a species` formation and existence. To analyze the relative role of these factors in formation of the tissue heat resistance level as characteristic of a species, a study was made on 9 species of lizards of the `Lacerta saxicola` complex. A characteristic feature of the complex is that some of the species belonging it are of hybrid origin, which implies that genetically they are closely related to other, parental forms. Heat resistance level of muscle tissue in a hybrid species may differ from the parental forms if the conditions of its existence are different. On other hand, genetically unrelated species living under similar conditions may have the same level of heat resistance of muscle tissue. Interspecific differences in heat resistance of muscles cannot be explained by phylogenetic relations only. Of major importance in formation of the cellular heat resistance level in the process of speciation are ecological, and primarily, thermal conditions of the environment.
Andrzejowski, A. (1832) -
Angel, F. (1923) -
Angel, F. (1925) -
Angel, F. (1936) -
Angel, F. (1939) -
Angel, F. (1940) -
Angel, F. (1944) -
Angel, F. (1946) -
Angel, F. & Guibé, J. & Lamotte, M. (1954) -
Angel, M.F. (1927) -
Angel, M.F. (1928) -
Angel, M.F. (1936) -
Angele, F. (1898) -
Angelici, F.M. & Capula, M. & Riga, F. (1990) -
Angelici, F.M. & Luiselli, L. & Rugiero, L. (1997) -
Abstract Food habits of the green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) were studied in some Mediterranean sites of the vicinities of Rome (Latium, central Italy), by means both of stomach dissection of individuals found already dead in the field and faeces analysis of living individuals. The taxonomic diet composition of the lizards was accurately described by both methods, thus demonstrating the reliability of faecal pellet analysis as an non-cruel method to study lizard diets. However, by using the faeces analysis technique, it is difficult to measure the exact food intake rate (items / unit of time) as well as the size distribution of prey ingested by lizards. There was a remarkable ontogenetic change in the taxonomic diet composition of green lizards: adults essentially consumed beetles and isopods, whereas juveniles fed mainly upon orthopterans, spiders, and Rhynchota. Cannibalism and predation upon small vertebrates (lizards) were very rare events. It is suggested that (i) age-related differences in microhabitat frequented could explain the dietary differences between young and adult lizards due to different availability of the various prey categories in the various microhabitats, and that (ii) adults and juveniles partition their habitats to reduce intraspecific interference competition.
Angelini, F. (1972) -
Angelini, F. & Botte, V. & Boschi, R. (1980) -
From the middle of the refractory period, adult males of Podarcis s. sicula Raf. (Reptilia Lacertidae) were treated with different photothermal regimes: 28 °C, combined with darkness, short or long photoperiods. The treatments were short (21-41 days) and long (exceeding 10 months). In both cases, in spring, recrudescence of testes occurred early after long photoperiods and was markedly delayed after darkness. In the latter case, moreover, the summer crisis is remarkably anticipated as compared to the controls. High temperatures, combined with short photoperiod, induce limited stimulatory effects on spermatogenesis with a poor development of the secondary sexual characteristics. A comparison between the results obtained from short and long term experiments clearly show that the autumnal refractory period is of fundamental importance in the regulation of the reproductive cycle of Podarcis s. sicula. In fact, during this period, the gonadal activity is « programmed » and pre-arranged for the next spring reproductive period.
Angelini, F. & Botte, V. & D´Alterio, E. (1982) -
Angelini, F. & Botte, V. & Picariello, O. (1975) -
Angelini, F. & Botte, V. & Picariello, O. (1978) -
Angelini, F. & Brizzi, R. & Barone, C. (1979) -
Angelini, F. & Ciarcia, G. & Botte, V. (1986) -
Angelini, F. & Ciarcia, G. & Picariello, O. & Botte, V. & Pagano, M. (1986) -
The evolution of sex steroids in the plasma and gonads of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula during the postreproductive period shows that these hormones could be involved in determining refractoriness. In the male, during this phase, the oestradiol could lower the hypothalamo-hypophyseal system through a negative feed-back. In the female a similar role could be assigned to progesterone.
Angelini, F. & D´Uva, V. & Picariello, O. & Ciarcia, G. (1975) -
Angelini, F. & D´Uva, V. & Picariello, O. & Ciarcia, G. (1978) -
The effects of mammalian gonadotropins on spermatogenesis in Lacerta s. sicula Raf. was studied during the autumn thermic refractory period. During this period the mammalian gonadotropins induce a stimulation of spermatogenesis and of the epididymis. FSH acts preferentially on the spermatogonial multiplication and on the primary spermocytes; LH acts on all the stages of spermatogenesis, but in particular on spermiohistogenesis and spermiation; moreover it causes a marked development of the epididymis and of the SSC. The effects of gonadotrophins are temperature dependent: below 18°C stimulation concerns only the early stages of spermatogenesis and spermiation does not occur; at 27°C a complete spermatogenesis with maximum spermiation occurs. At 30°C gonadotrophins induce a strong stimulation of the gonad, but this stimulation is accompanied by frequent degenerative phenomena of the secondary spermatocytes and spermatids. LH is more capable than FSH of limiting this degeneration. Testosterone does not prevent the regression of spermatogenesis due to high temperatures, while it causes a clear development of the epididymis.
Angelini, F. & Galgano, M. (1969) -
Angelini, F. & Picariello, O. & Botte, V. (1976) -
Angelov, P. & Gruev, B. & Tomov, V. (1972) -
Angelov, P. & Tomov, V. & Gruev, B. (1972) -
Angot, D. (2015) -
Anh, J.N.H. (1968) -
Annaev, D. (1973) -
Annousis, I. & Kapsalas, G. & Pafilis, P. (2021) -
Although the insular distribution of the rich herpetofauna of Greece has been studied more extensively, the mainland one is still underexplored. The region of Attica in central Greece represents one of these “black spots” in the mainland. Thus, in 2019 we surveyed for the first time the herpetofauna of Attica in a systematic way. We collected 794 field records of 31 species (4 amphibians, 27 reptiles); Testudo graeca and Trachemys elegans were documented for the first time for Attica.
Anonymous (1875) -
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Anonymous (2013) -
Eine Forschungsgruppe der Universitäten La Laguna und Gran Canaria hat entdeckt, dass die kanarische Eidechsenart Gallotia galloti in der Lage ist, den Sehnerv zu reparieren, wenn er beschädigt wird.
Anonymous (2014) -
Anonymous (2016) -
Anonymous (2017) -
Anonymous (2020) -
Anonymous (2024) -
Antal, Z. (2006) -
Three different lizard species can be found at the great pasture of Hajúbagos. These are the balkan or crimean wall lizard (Podarcis taurica), the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) and the green lizard (Lacerta viridis). All of them are protected by law in Hungary but while sand lizard and green lizard is common all over the country, the amount of the balkan wall lizard is decreasing. The main cause of this regrettable possession is the habitat degradation and thus habitat loss. Namely balkan wall lizard not only prefers but suffers open sand grasslands and these kinds of habitats are disappearing in Hungary. Due to the fact that the extensive animal grazing lost its importance, open sand pastures started to change, succession can be realized. Thus grass closing constantly what is favourable for sand lizard and green lizard. Furthermore sand lizard and balkan wall lizard share roughly the same foodsource and moreover green lizard could possibly pass into a predator of balkan wall lizard juveniles also. Therefore sand lizard and green lizard became competitors (or predators) of balkan wall lizard and the proportion of the three species compared to each other is changing. My aim is to examine the vegetation change and simultaneously monitor the amount of the mentioned three lizard species. After all I would like to make a well established proposal on the management of protected grasslands.
Antczak, M. & Ekner-Grzyb, A. & Majláth, I. & Majláthová, V. & Bona, M. & Hromada, M. & Tryjanowski, P. (2019) -
Predation is one of the most important factors affecting biology, ecology and behaviour of the prey. We have studied predation of the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) by the great grey shrike (Lanius excubitor) in farmland habitats in western Poland. Shrike caches were used as a source of information about preyed lizards. Shrikes hunt significantly more adult males than females, juveniles and sub-adults; the pattern was similar over all three study years. Male lizard had longer activity time than female; therefore, they seem to be under predation pressure for a longer time during breeding season. Capture and count transect data of common lizard populations living within and outside shrike territories showed significant seasonal differences: within shrike territories, there was lower proportion of males than females; moreover, in some territories, the number of males in the lizard population was negatively correlated with the number of males impaled by shrikes. Our findings suggest that in this particular predator-prey system, shrikes may be a strong selective force for lizards’ population dynamics. Male-biased predation could be caused by differences in the behaviour of adult male and female lizards, namely longer activity of males and differences in space and refuge use.
Antinucci, C. & Gallozzi, F. & Ancilotto, L. & Mori, E. & Castiglia, R. (2023) -
Understanding patterns and modalities of species’ colonization in insular ecosystems is a major goal of biogeography and may be key to decision makers, in terms of e.g., management and conservation. In this paper, we assess source and patterns of colonization of an opportunistic reptile, Podarcis siculus, on the remote island of Pantelleria (Italy), following a multidisciplinary approach combining molecular phylogeography and dorsal pattern analyses. We analyzed the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b (cytb) from 13 lizards and we assessed the frequency of the dorsal pattern phenotypes observing 188 basking lizards from eight localities throughout the island. The parsimony network revealed that haplotypes from Pantelleria belong to a haplogroup characteristic of western Sicily with the most common haplotype from Pantelleria being also found in three Sicilian localities. Unlike other Italian island populations, the dorsal pattern is highly conserved on Pantelleria, as a high percent of the observed individuals show the pattern also found in the hypothesized source area in western Sicily. In conclusion, our results are compatible with an allochthonous origin of the P. siculus population of Pantelleria Island. Thus, the species would need no population monitoring programme for its conservation on the island.
Antipov, S.A. & Doronin I.V. (2018) -
Антипов С.А. & Доронин И.В. (2018) -
Antipov, S.A. & Doronin, I.V. & Milto, K.D. & Sergeev M.A. (2018) -
New data on the distribution of 10 amphibian and 6 reptile species in the Vladimir Region is given. The list of species contains 198 new records including such rare species as Bombina bombina and Coronella austriaca.
Антипов С.А. & Доронин И.В. & Мильто К.Д. & Сергеев М. А. (2018) -
Приводятся новые данные по распространению 10 видов земноводных и 6 видов пресмыкающихся во Владимирской области. Список содержит 198 новых находок, включая такие редкие виды, как Bombina bombina и Coronella austriaca.
Antoine, A. (2012) -
Antoine, A. (2014) -
Antoine, A. (2016) -
Antoine, A. (2018) -
Antunes, P. & Crespo, E.G. & Vicente, L. (2001) -
Previously known in Portugal only in Serra da Estrela (Centre of Portugal), the Iberian rock-li zard, Lacerta monticola, is now reported inside the Montesinho Natural Park (North of Portugal). The specimens found in Museu Bocage`s collection could be tentatively assigned to subspecies call1abrica.
Antunes, P. & Vicente, L. (2001) -
Antunes, P. & Vicente, L. (2004) -
The last catalogue of the Reptile collection of the Museu Bocage dates back to 1972. The collections were lost in a fire 25 years ago, so it was necessary to analyse the effort of various donors, who offered the Museum a new collection. The evaluation of the sampling effort is important to gather information (on quantity and origin) and the various samples of the species of lacertid lizards present in the Museum and enables an operational and practical visual imaged of that information. The obtained results prove that the study of the sampling effort using ordinary kriging method is robust and accurate on identifying gaps (under or no sampled areas) and a helpful tool to fulfil them. Although beginning to the representative of the Portuguese fauna, the lacertid collection of the Museu Bocage needs major improvements given that it still does not illustrate the actual distribution of lacertid lizards in Portugal. In order to stand for modern standards, when complementing the existing collection we must take into account not only the information provided by the analysis but also conservationist concerns (not killing animals) and the establishment of co-partnerships with congener institutions as well. Nowadays Museums have the duty, more than ever, to keep their collections well housed, cared for and accessible to the scientific community.
Antunes, P. & Vicente, L. & Crespo, E.G. (2003) -
Aparacio Sánchez, G. & Cordero del Campillo, M. (1980) -
Se describen formas axesuadas parásitas en el entoleio pulmonar de Lacerta Lepida y sexuadas en los hematíes del mismo animal, con técnicas de miscroscopía óptica y electrónica, de un hemococcidio diagnosticado como Karyolysus sp.
Apashkin, P. & Blokhin, I. & Glazko, V. & Glazko, T. (2022) -
Arab, K. & Doumandji, E. (2003) -
The diet of both reptiles was studied in the park of the National Agronomic Institute in Alger city. Faeces of the captured animals were analysed in order to evaluate relative abundance of preys, standardised diversity and diet overlaps for both species. They both preyed on a large diversity of small invertebrates and showed overlapping diets. In spite of this opportunistic behaviour, both predator species seem to split the feeding resources of their environment through spatial and temporal segregation.
Aragón Carrera, P. (2001) -
Aragón, P. & Fitze, P.S. (2014) -
Geographical body size variation has long interested evolutionary biologists, and a range of mechanisms have been proposed to explain the observed patterns. It is considered to be more puzzling in ectotherms than in endotherms, and integrative approaches are necessary for testing non-exclusive alternative mechanisms. Using lacertid lizards as a model, we adopted an integrative approach, testing different hypotheses for both sexes while incorporating temporal, spatial, and phylogenetic autocorrelation at the individual level. We used data on the Spanish Sand Racer species group from a field survey to disentangle different sources of body size variation through environmental and individual genetic data, while accounting for temporal and spatial autocorrelation. A variation partitioning method was applied to separate independent and shared components of ecology and phylogeny, and estimated their significance. Then, we fed-back our models by controlling for relevant independent components. The pattern was consistent with the geographical Bergmann`s cline and the experimental temperature-size rule: adults were larger at lower temperatures (and/or higher elevations). This result was confirmed with additional multi-year independent data-set derived from the literature. Variation partitioning showed no sex differences in phylogenetic inertia but showed sex differences in the independent component of ecology; primarily due to growth differences. Interestingly, only after controlling for independent components did primary productivity also emerge as an important predictor explaining size variation in both sexes. This study highlights the importance of integrating individual-based genetic information, relevant ecological parameters, and temporal and spatial autocorrelation in sex-specific models to detect potentially important hidden effects. Our individual-based approach devoted to extract and control for independent components was useful to reveal hidden effects linked with alternative non-exclusive hypothesis, such as those of primary productivity. Also, including measurement date allowed disentangling and controlling for short-term temporal autocorrelation reflecting sex-specific growth plasticity.
Aragon, P. & Clobert, J. & Massot, M. (2006) -
The effects of immigration on the behaviour of residents may have important implications for the local population characteristics. A manipulative laboratory experiment with yearlings of the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) was performed to test whether the introduction of dispersing or philopatric individuals influences the shortterm spacing behaviour of resident individuals. Staged encounters were carried out to induce interactions within dyads. The home cage of each responding individual was connected by a corridor to an unfamiliar “arrival cage” to measure the latency to leave their own home cage after each encounter. Our results showed that the time that pairs spent in close proximity was longer when a dispersing individual was introduced in the home cage. The latency to leave the home cage was longer after the introduction of a dispersing individual. These response variables were not influenced by the relative body sizes of contestants nor by the level of aggression towards each other. In contrast, the aggressive response was significantly influenced by the residency asymmetry established experimentally (“owner” of the home cage vs introduced individual). Our results suggest that the space use by resident individuals is influenced by the dispersal status of conspecifics. The potential ultimate causes driving this effect are discussed.
Aragón, P. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2000) -
Aragón, P. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2001) -
The ability of territorial lizards to discriminate between scents of neighbors and non-neighbors might contribute to decreasing the costs of aggressive interactions. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a field study to analyze the spatial relationships between male Iberian rock-lizards, Lacerta monticola. We then used the same individuals in a laboratory experiment to test whether male lizards can use chemical cues to discriminate between familiar conspecific males (those whose home ranges overlapped) and unfamiliar conspecific males (those whose home ranges did not overlap, and whose home range centers were at least 50 m apart). Differences in tongue-flick rates in the presence of chemical cues suggested that male L. monticola discriminated between odors of familiar and unfamiliar males. The behavioral responses were also dependent on relative differences in body size between the responding male and the unfamiliar male that donated the scent: There was a significant negative correlation between tongue-flick rates emitted in cages of unfamiliar males and the body size differences between males. In contrast, when the donor of the scent was a familiar male, the tongue-flick rate was not dependent on body size differences. These results are compatible with individual discrimination through chemical cues in male L. monticola.
We conducted a field study to examine the significance of the seasonal changes in activity levels, spatial relationships, and social interactions of the Iberian rock lizard, Lacerta monticola, during the same favorable climatic period. Activity level, movement rate, home-range size, number of same-sex neighbors, and number of agonistic interactions decreased as the mating season finished for males but not for females. The number of females` home ranges overlapped by the home range of each male was also higher in the mating season than in the nonmating season. Measurements of available ambient temperatures showed that the thermal environment was suitable for the activity of lizards in both seasons, therefore the seasonal changes cannot be explained by thermal constraints. Males gain access to several females by increasing their home-range size, thus overlapping a larger number of females` home ranges, but as a consequence, also those of a larger number of male competitors. Thus, the cost of incurring agonistic interactions also increases. These results suggest that because activity and aggressiveness in males are related to their mating success, the balance between the costs and benefits of their activity and spatial strategies differs seasonally, and this may be the cause of the observed seasonal changes.
Aragón, P. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2004) -
We conducted a field study to analyze spatial relationships among male Iberian Rock Lizards, Lacerta monticola. We then used the same individuals in a laboratory experiment to test whether avoidance responses of a male lizard in a previously unknown area is affected by presence of scents of familiar and unfamiliar resident males. Time spent attempting to escape in presence of unfamiliar odors was significantly higher than in presence of familiar odors suggesting avoidance of unfamiliar scent marks, which may lower the costs of aggressive interactions. Our results are concordant with previous studies in which differential tongue-flick rates showed discrimination between odors of familiar and unfamiliar males of L. monticola.
Aragón, P. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2006) -
Many studies on contest competition used residency asymmetry as a discrete variable. However, the probability of winning an interaction may change as a continuous function of the value of the location where the encounter occurs. We performed a field study to examine the importance of location within a home range and relative body size to the outcomes of agonistic interactions between male lizards, Lacerta monticola. The distances to activity centers (themost used locations based on a density function of sightings) and relative size play important roles in agonistic interactions and had interacting effects in natural conditions. On the other hand, previous studies with lizards suggested that inferior competitors are able to avoid agonistic interactions in the field. Thus, we staged encounters in the laboratory to examine the behavioral responses of smaller individuals. The responses of each focal smaller male were measured in its own home cage (resident), in the cage of a larger male (intruder) and in a cage in which no male was previously present (control). The predominant behavioral tactics of smaller males were avoidance when they are the intruders and displaying when they are the residents. Submissive displays by smaller males may help reduce the costs of agonistic encounters.
Aragón, P. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2007) -
Theoretical and field studies suggest that inferior competitors may be able to avoid costly agonistic interactions, although the mechanisms involved are poorly understood in lizards. The “Dear enemy recognition” theory proposes that higher tolerance among familiar than among unfamiliar conspecifics may reduce costly interactions. Male lizards Lacerta monticola are able to discriminate between familiar and unfamiliar conspecific males through chemical signals alone. To better understand the implications of this discrimination ability, we performed a laboratory experiment on the role of familiarity in social tolerance estimated as the degree of spatial proximity with no sign of aggressiveness between males with a size asymmetry. In natural conditions the outcome of neighbour-stranger interactions might be the result of asymmetries in residence. Therefore, we staged pairwise encounters between familiar and unfamiliar males in neutral terraria to avoid an interacting effect of residency asymmetry. The latency to the first time in close proximity was significantly longer when small males were faced with unfamiliar males. The time that unfamiliar lizards spent in close proximity was significantly lower than that with familiar males. Our design allowed us to conclude that there was a higher social tolerance among familiar individuals with a size asymmetry that was independent of residency asymmetry.
Aragón, P. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2008) -
Variation in environmental factors plays a central role on organisms` physiological changes. However, the physiological response to predation risk has rarely been investigated in reptiles. Chemical senses are important for intraspecific communication in squamate reptiles. In male lizards Iberolacerta cyreni the maintenance of relative proportions of lipids in femoral gland secretions is costly, which may ensure honest signalling of quality. We hypothesized that increased predation risk should compromise the maintenance of such lipid proportions, as both a fear response and escaping behavior can have physiological consequences. We simulated predator attacks and found that relative proportions of lipids in femoral gland secretions changed in disturbed lizards but not in control ones. Thus, predator–prey interactions may modulate relative concentrations of chemicals in scents of lizards. Potential consequences of this effect on intraspecific chemical communication are suggested.
Aragon, P. & Massot, M. & Gasparini, J. & Clobert, J. (2006) -
The use of information from chemical cues about the presence of conspecifics and their social interactions may be advantageous because it allows individuals to assess the social environment in the absence of the signallers. We tested experimentally whether the selection of nocturnal shelters by juveniles of the common lizard was influenced by the scent marks from three isolated or three socially housed adult males or females, keeping constant the number of donors for all treatments. We gave each juvenile a choice between a shelter containing odours from adults and a shelter with no odour and we compared the response to odours from three adults housed singly with that to odours from three adults that had the opportunity to interact. The shelter site selection of juveniles was influenced by the odour of socially housed adult males, but not by that of isolated males, and partly depended on the mother’s site of origin and the juvenile’s body condition. This study shows that juveniles use social information from conspecific chemical cues and that various phenotypes may use this information in different ways.
Aragón, P. & Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. (2006) -
1. Individuals following different strategies such as philopatry or dispersal may also differ in other phenotypic traits, since dispersing individuals have to face novel physical and social environments. There is growing evidence of the use of information obtained from conspecifics in a variety of contexts. It has been demonstrated that before natal dispersal, juveniles of Lacerta vivipara use social information through conspecific chemical cues, and that various phenotypes use this information differently. We hypothesized that, after dispersal, the behavioural responses of yearlings to different social environments assessed through conspecific odours depend on the dispersal status. 2. We tested the response of philopatric and dispersing yearlings of L. vivipara to different types of social cues, controlling for the prenatal and postnatal environment. Each yearling was faced with environments with no conspecific odours, with scentmarks from one or three yearlings that were held isolated during captivity, and from three socially housed yearlings. Thus, we examined the response to the number of donors and to the social environment experienced by donors. We recorded the time spent walking and attempting to escape as indicators of activity and avoidance response, respectively. 3. Philopatric and dispersing individuals reacted differently to the social environments presented through odour marks. This dispersal status-dependent response was not modulated by the prenatal and postnatal factors examined.
Arakelyan, M. (2001) -
Arakelyan, M. (2002) -
Skeletochronological study of rock lizards hybrids Darevskia valentini × D. unisexualis, D. valentini × D. armeniaca, D. nairensis × D. unisexualis, and their parental species, collected from three mixed populations (near village of Kuchak, Lchashen, Lchap — mountainous regions of central Armenia) proved their similar pattern of growth. However, the hybrids are characterized by faster rate of growth and predominantly bigger size of body in each age group contrary to their parental species. The longevity of studied hybrids is same as in parental species and reaches 6 – 7 years.
Arakelyan, M. (2004) -
Arakelyan, M. (2007) -
Arakelyan, M. (2009) -
Arakelyan, M. (2012) -
Arakelyan, M. & Danielyan, F. & Corti, C. & Sindaco, R. & Leviton, A. (2011) -
Arakelyan, M. & Danielyan, F. & Serobyan, V. (2005) -
Skeletochronological study of Eremias strauchi (n =18) has shown equable pattern of growth. The lizards under study reach sexual maturity after the 1st or 2nd year of life and have two clutches. Maximum age for the studied sample was 4–5 years.
Аракелян, М. & Даниелян, Ф. & Серобян, В. (2005) -
Arakelyan, M. & Harutyunyan, T. & Aghayan, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2019) -
Sexual organisms should be better suited than asexual ones in a context of continuous evolution in response to opposite organisms in changing environments (“Red Queen” hypothesis of sex). However, sex also carries costs associated with the maintenance of males and mating (sex cost hypothesis). Here, both non-mutually excluding hypotheses are tested by analysing the infestation by haemogregarines of mixed communities of Darevskia rock lizards composed of parthenogens generated by hybridisation and their bisexual relatives. Prevalence and intensity were recorded from 339 adult lizards belonging to six species from five syntopic localities and analysed using Generalized Mixed-Models (GLMM). Both infestation parameters depended on host-size (like due to longer exposure with age), sex and, for intensity, species. Once accounting for locality and species, males were more parasitized than conspecific females with bisexual species, but no signal of reproductive mode itself on parasitization was recovered. Essentially, male-male interactions increased haemogregarine intensity while females either sexual or asexual had similar reproductive costs when in the same conditions. These findings deviate from the predictions from “Red Queen” dynamics while asymmetric gender costs are here confirmed. Thus, increased parasitization pressure on males adds to other costs, such as higher social interactions and lower fecundity, to explain why parthenogenetic lizards apparently prevail in the short-term evolutionary scale. How this is translated in the long-term requires further phylogenetic analysis.
Arakelyan, M. & Jenderedjan, A. (2003) -
Arakelyan, M. & Petrosyan, R. & Ilgar, C. & Kumlutaş, S. & Durmus, S.H. & Tayhan, Y. & Danielyan, F. (2013) -
The skeletochronological method has been used to assess age distribution and age-related differences in body size among populations of the parthenogenetic lizards Darevskia sapphirina, D. uzzelli, D. armeniaca and D. unisexualis from Turkey and Armenia. The age distribution between D. armeniaca and D. unisexualis did not significantly differ and ranged from 1 to 8 years. Maximum age for both D. uzzelli and D. sapphirina was 6 years, and 8 years for both D. unisexualis and D. armeniaca. In all the studied species, individuals reached sexual maturity after third hibernation. According to patterns of growth marks resorption, D. sapphirina is distinguished from all other rock lizards of genus Darevskia by a narrowest periosteal bone as result of high rate of endosteal resorption resulting in complete destruction of hatchling line and line of the first hibernation.
Arakelyan, M. & Soghoyan, A. & Ilgac, Ç. & Durmuş, S. & Tayhan, Y. (2010) -
Morphological diversity at 20 pholidotic and 16 meristic characters were studied on three parthenogenetic species Darevskia unisexualis (Darevsky, 1966) D. uzzelli (Darevsky & Danielyan, 1977) and D. sapphirina (Schmidtler, Eiselt & Darevsky, 1994) from Turkey which originated from interspecific hybridization of same parental species D. raddei (Boettger, 1892) and D. valentini (Boettger, 1892) and compared with parthenogenetic species D. armeniaca (Mehely, 1909) which originated from hybridization of D. mixta (Mehely, 1909) and D. valentini (Boettger, 1892) (Murphy et al, 2000, Fu et al, 2000). D. armeniaca significantly differ (ANOVA, Tukey HSD test; p < 0.05) from D. unisexualis and D. sapphirina by 11 pholidotic characters, as well as from D. uzzelli by 9 variables. D. unisexualis has shown significant differences by 8 pholidotic variables from D. sapphrina. Only two pholidotic characters distinguish D. uzzelli from D. sapphirina and D. unisexualis. In addition to meristic characters D. sapphirinia has shown significant less length and height of head as well as length of legs than D. armeniaca, D. unisexualis and D. uzzelli. The average means of snout-vent length of D. sapphirina were less in each age group in comparing with other species. The measurements of bone thickness have revealed the significant high level (p<0.001) of endosteal resorption in femur bones of D. sapphirina removing the first growth layers which usually present in bones of the most Darevskia species. The oldest lizards in our specimens were aged 6 years in D. uzzelli and D. sapphirina and 7 years D. unisexualis and D. armeniaca.
Arakelyan, M. & Stepanyan, I. (2008) -
The cytometrical analyses of diploid bisexual species Darevskia valentini, and closely relative parthenogenetic species D. unisexualis and D. armeniaca, as well as their triploid hybrids (D. valentini × D. unisexualis and D. valentini × D. armeniaca) and tetraploid hybrid D.valentini × D. unisexualis arising from hybridization in mixed population in vicinity of Kuchak village (Aragatsotn region, Armenia) has shown significant differences (P<0.001) in surface and perimeter of erythrocytes between all of them according to ANOVAs post-hoc test. The size of red blood cells of triploid hybrids exceeds that of diploids by 25-30%, but tetraploid male exceeds diploid males by 22% and by 10 % smaller than those of triploid male hybrids. Among parental species the smallest parameters of erythrocytes have D. valentini, when D. unisexualis have the largest red blood cells. Accordingly, the erythrocytes of hybrids of D.valentini × D. unisexualis were larger than D. valentini × D. armeniaca.
Arakelyan, M. & Tadevodyan, T. & Petrosyan, R. & Ghrejyan, T. & Grogoryan, A. (2023) -
Studying the geographic distribution of the Dwarf Lizard (Parvilacerta parva) at the north-eastern edge of its geographic range in Armenia, we compiled a list of 31 locations in six regions (marzes) of northern and central Armenia. Three occurrences remain unconfirmed, and we interpret those as outliers in the context of the fundamental climate-driven niche we estimated using maximum entropy modelling. The species’ niche is determined by the minimum temperature of the coldest quarter, the seasonality of precipitation, and the mean monthly diurnal range of temperature. While nearly 50% of this climate driven niche is currently occupied by developed lands, 10 out of 26 reasonably confirmed Armenian populations of P. parva (38.5%) have been lost over the past 110 years. Despite the documented decline of P. parva in Armenia, habitat protection measures for this species are lacking and there is a need for enhanced conservation strategy.
Arakelyan, M.S. (2001) -
Arakelyan, M.S. (2007) -
Arakelyan, M.S. (2012) -
Currently among sympatric populations of biparental species of genus Darevskia, which were involved in reticulate evolution, the processes of hybridization take place only between D. raddei and D. portschinskii species. The successful combination of parental species with low reproductive isolation may be considered as main factor explaining the origin of parthenogenetic species.
Аракелян, М.C. (2012) -
Среди симпатрических двуполых видов яшериц рода Darevskia, участвующих в сетчатой эволюции, процессы гибридизации на сегодняшний день интенсивно протекают только между видами D. raddei и D. portschinskii. Удачная комбинация родительских двуполых видов с неполной репродуктивной изоляциeй является важным фактором появления партеногенетических видов. Ներկայումս Darevskia ցեղի երկսեռ ժայռային մողեսների սիմպատրիկ պոպուլյացիաներում, որոնք ներգրավված էին եղել ցանցաձև էվոլյուցիայի գործընթացի մեջ, ընթանում է հիբրիդային տեսակառաջացում միայն D. raddei և D. portschinskii տեսակների միջև: Ծնողական տեսակների հաջող համադրությունը ցածր վերարտադրողական մեկուսացման դեպքում կուսածին տեսակների առաջացման կարևոր գործոն է:
The unique isolated population of racerunner Eremias arguta transcaucasica in Armenia is under strong human pressure and seeks urgent conservation measures. The population has a limited area (approximately 9 hectares) on the shore of Lake Sevan, in vicinity of a settlement. Հայաստանում բազմագույն մողեսիկի միակ և մեկուսացված պոպուլյացիան գտնվում է մարդածին գործոնի ուժեղ ազդեցության ներքո, և անհրաժեշտ են անհապաղ միջոցառումներ նրա պահպանության համար: Պոպուլյացիան գտնվում է Սևանա լճի ափին, բնակելի տարածքից ոչ շատ հեռու և գրավում է 9 հա տարածք: Единственно известная изолированная популяция разноцветной ящурки в Армении находится под сильным антропогенным прессом и требует срочных мер по ее охране. Популяция занимает ограниченную площадь (около 9 гектаров) на берегу озера Севан недалеко от населенного пункта.
Arakelyan, M.S. & Danielyan, F.D. (2000) -
The age of the parthenogenetic species, Lacerta armeniaca (N = 147), L. unisexualis (N = 68), and L. dahli (N = 18), and that in the bisexual species, L. nairensis (N = 29) and L. raddei (N = 32), were determined from femur bone layers. Parthenogenesis does not influence the growth rate, age of sexual maturation and longevity of rock lizards. The species of lizards under study reach sexual maturity during the second or third year of life. The maximum age of individuals in the samples studied was 7 years for L. armeniaca, 6 years for L. unisexualis, L. dahli, L. raddei, and 5 years for L. nairensis.
Age determination based on counting the annual layers in the femur was performed for three parthenogenetic species of Armenian rock lizards, Lacerta armeniaca (n = 147), L. unisexualis (n = 68), and L. dahli (n = 18), and for two bisexual species, L. nairensis (n = 29) and L. raddei (n = 32). Comparison of parthenogenetic and bisexual species shows that the growth rate, sexual maturity age, and life longevity in rock lizards are independent of the type of reproduction. The examined Lacerta species reach maturity by the second or third year of life. The maximum age of individuals in the samples studied is 7 and 5 years for L. armeniaca and L. nairensis, respectively, and 6 years for L. unisexualis, L. dahli, and L. raddei.
Arakelyan, M.S. & Danielyan, F.D. (2011) -
Range overlap between species even at local scales is a defining trait in the biogeography of the Caucasian rock lizards of the genus Darevskia. Syntopy between populations of two biparental species is remarkable, especially when they are parental contributors of parthenogenetic species. The detailed analyses of such contact zones revealed that when biparental species D. valentini and D. nairensis are in syntopy, no hybrid forms arise. This is likely due to their different reproductive periods. In contrast, the biparental D. raddei and D. portschinskii often produce hybrids, and the parthenogenetic species D. rostombekovi is also found in low numbers in the same sites which suggests that they are an occasional result of hybridization. Three sympatric zones between D. raddei and D. portschinskii are known for Armenia, Nagorno-Karabakh Republic (NKR) and Azerbaijan. Likely, the reproductive isolation between D. raddei and D. portschinskii is not complete which is contributing to reticular evolution. The hybridization events between syntopic D. raddei and D. portschinskii produce lizards with intermediate scalation and coloration characters when compared to allopatric populations. Among 207 lizards from Northern Armenia 59 (28.5%) D. raddei and 53 (25.5%) of D. portschinskii displayed intermediate morphology, 6 (2.86%) were parthenogenetic D. rostombekovi and 4 (1.93%) triploid hybrid females D. raddei × D. rostombekovi. Of 20 lizards with intermediate morphology 53 eggs and 35 young were obtained; 12 of young were similar to D. rostombekovi according to their external morphology. Among 143 lizards collected in another syntopic locality with D. raddei and D. portschinskii in NKR, 24 were hybrid females of uncertain morphological ascription. Among 66 D. portschinskii 18 individuals displayed modified morphological characters similar to D. raddei while among 43 D. raddei 14 individuals show morphologies close to D. portschinskii. Therefore, the successful combination of parental species with low reproductive isolation may be considered as the main factor explaining the origin of parthenogenetic species. For next steps of reticulate evolution, the combination of biparental and parthenogenetic species is required. Namely, in the sympatric zone of biparental D. raddei (40% of lizards) and parthenogenetic D. rostombekovi (35%), D. armeniaca (20%) and D. dahli (5%), triploid hybrids arise only between D. raddei and D. rostombekovi (18 hybrid males and 6 intersexes with both hemipenises and oviducts found). D. raddei from this locality showed pholidosis and coloration approaching D. rostombekovi.
Arakelyan, M.S. & Danielyan, F.D. (2014) -
Arano, B. & Astudillo, G. (1997) -
Arano, B. & Herrero, P. & Astudilla, G. (1999) -
Cytogenetic analysis and the patterns of alloenzyme migration were used to analyse the possible endogamic depression caused by the scarce number of specimens of the lizard still in existence. The karyotype of Gallotia simonyi has a chromosome pattern of 2N = 40 (38 accrocentric and 2 microchromosomes with a pair of NOR located in telomeric position at pair 19). There would appear to be no chromosomic definition for sex nor do variations appear in the layout of C bands over the various individuals. Protein electrophoresis has shown that all individuals are monomorphous over the 32 loci analysed. This fact reveals absence of heterocygosity and polymorphism. From the results, we discuss the possibility of total loss of genetic diversity and the application of other techniques towards confirming this extreme (analysis of mini- and macro-satellites). An optimisation of the present cross breeding system used for the specimens in captivity is proposed in order to palliate the high rates of endogamy.
Araujo, A.P.R. de (1990) -
Araujo, M.B. & Thuiller, W. & Pearson, R.G. (2006) -
Aim We explore the relationship between current European distributions of amphibian and reptile species and observed climate, and project species potential distributions into the future. Potential impacts of climate warming are assessed by quantifying the magnitude and direction of modelled distributional shifts for every species. In particular we ask, first, what proportion of amphibian and reptile species are projected to lose and gain suitable climate space in the future? Secondly, do species projections vary according to taxonomic, spatial or environmental properties? And thirdly, what climate factors might be driving projections of loss or gain in suitable environments for species? Location Europe. Methods Distributions of species are modelled with four species–climate envelope techniques (artificial neural networks, generalized linear models, generalized additive models, and classification tree analyses) and distributions are projected into the future using five climate-change scenarios for 2050. Future projections are made considering two extreme assumptions: species have unlimited dispersal ability and species have no dispersal ability. A novel hybrid approach for combining ensembles of forecasts is then used to group linearly covarying projections into clusters with reduced inter-model variability. Results We show that a great proportion of amphibian and reptile species are projected to expand distributions if dispersal is unlimited. This is because warming in the cooler northern ranges of species creates new opportunities for colonization. If species are unable to disperse, then most species are projected to lose range. Loss of suitable climate space for species is projected to occur mainly in the south-west of Europe, including the Iberian Peninsula, whilst species in the south-east are projected to gain suitable climate. This is because dry conditions in the south-west are projected to increase, approaching the levels found in North Africa, where few amphibian species are able to persist. Main conclusions The impact of increasing temperatures on amphibian and reptile species may be less deleterious than previously postulated; indeed, climate cooling would be more deleterious for the persistence of amphibian and reptile species than warming. The ability of species to cope with climate warming may, however, be offset by projected decreases in the availability of water. This should be particularly true for amphibians. Limited dispersal ability may further increase the vulnerability of amphibians and reptiles to changes in climate.
Arbuckle, K. (2022) -
Arbuckle, K. & Nichols Arbuckle, A.J. (2023) -
ARC (2009) -
ARC (2016) -
Arechavaleta, M. & S. Rodríguez & N. Zurita & A. García (coord.) (2010) -
Arets, M. (2012) -
Arets, M.H.M. (2000) -
The author describes a herpetological vacation in southern France. Reptiles and amphibians were abundant in this region. Areas of interest were: La Petite Crau, La Plaine de Ia Crau, Les Alpilles, Les Rochers de Ia Pene and Le Barrage de Sr. Remy. The author was especially interested in spotting Ocellared Lizards (Timon lepida) bur didn` r succeed in finding them. Nevertheless a lot of other animals were seen, as is shown in the table. Nor mentioned in the table are several Red-eared Sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans), that were seen at Le Barrage de St. Remy. In addition the author visited Le Village de Torrue at Gonfaron (breeding-center for Testudo hermanni and Testudo graeca) and several other pla- ces in the Sr. Remy region.
I visited southern France to search for Timon lepidus for the third time in 1998. Sites visited included (among others) Maussane, Lac du Salagou and the surroundings of this lake, St. Rémy-de-Provence, the surrounding hills of Le petit Crau and Avignon. I did not find Timon lepidus this time, but did see Natrix maura, Malpolon monspessulanus, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis and many Psammodromus hispanicus. There were not very many amphibians visible because of the hot weather.
Arets, M.H.M. (2001) -
The author describes a herpetological trip to Portugal organized by a travelling agency specialized in ecological trips. The group consisted ofeighteen people and was especially interested in reptiles and amphibians, though most of the participants were bird-watchers and nature-lovers too. Day by day the author describes the various reptiles and amphibians that were seen. A table is added, in which the num- bers represent the day the respective animals were spotted. The regions that were visited were: Sao Bras {day I), Guadiana river {day 2), Parque Natural da Ria Formosa (day 3), Huelva and Coto de Dofiana in Spain {day 4), Lagoa and the Monchique (day 5), the rocky coast of Carrapateira, Cabo de Sao Vicente (day 6), Almarjao, close to Sao Bras (day 7). Three species of newts and salamanders were seen, eight species of frogs and toads, two species of turt- les, ten species of lizards and five species of snakes. A list was made of the insects, the birds (123 spe- cies) and plants that were seen. The trip was very successful, with regard to the inte- rest of the group
Arets, M.H.M. (2003) -
The Ocellated Lizard is the largest Lacerrid. Males can grow up to 65 cm, females to slighdy less. They are brown to green with a pattem of small black dors (forming rosettes in juveniles) and several rows of blue spots on their sides. Males have very large heads, compared to rhe females. The nominate subspecies inhabits the lberian peninsula, sourhem France and northwestem ltaly. In southeastem Spain the subspecies Timon lepidus nevadensis is recognised. The lizards are found in dry, uncultiva- ted areas, preferably near a large stone or piles of stones. The author keeps his animals in outdoors enclosu- res for five months during the summer months. The indoor terraria measure at least 1.25x0.60x0. 65 cm (lxwxh) with a 10-15 cm layer of substrate, consisring o f a mixture o f loam, clay, garden soil and marl grit. The terraria are decarared with pie- ces of marl, branches and stubs, attached to the backside, artificial plants and some dry shrubs of for instanee heather, which the animals use to shed their skin. The terraria are illuminated with fluo- rescent lights, including those which produce UV- B light (for insrance Reptisun 5.0). Hearing is pro- vided by an iocandescent spotlight of 80-1 00 W. Passive ventilation is provided by one ventilation- grid near the bottom, close to the spotlight, in con- junction with another grid at the opposite side, near the top. Photoperiod is varied according to the normal cycles at this latitude. The animals stay insi- de from the end of September until mid-May. The outside enclosures average at 2.0xl.5x0.7 m (lxwxh) and are decorated like the indoor terraria. The pens are covered with plastic-coated wire net- ring, to prevent cats, rats and birds to prey on the animals. This netring is buried in the substrate as well, at a depth of 30 cm, to prevent rhe inhabi- tants ro escape and to keep unwanted burying guests out. The animals are preferentially kept in pairs; other combinations usually result in aggression and pos- sibly death. Other species (even Lacerta viridis) should nor be kept in combination with these ani- mals. Their daily activity can start as early as 9.00 a.m and can last to 11.00 p.m. Ocellared Lizards eat virrually all kinds of inverte- brares, including scorpions and large centipedes. In captivity they will eat all kind of insects, even large beetles. Calcium is ingested by eating marl-grit, water-soluble vitamins A and D3 (Davitamon AD aquosum) are added to the drinking-water, five drops in 50 ml. Riekets used to be a problem, espe- cially with juveniles. But after the animals were given marl-grit and vitamin D3 in the drinking- water, riekets was no Jonger encountered.
During rhe winter, from the middle of December until the beginning of March, rhe spotlights are rurned off and the animals are visible only part of rhe time, some of them even hibernare. No food is given during this period, only water. After several weeks rnaring starts, during the last years ar rhe end of March, and will go on until rhe beginning of May. When rhe female has ro lay her eggs, she digs a tunnel of up to 30 cm length, with a larger hole at the end. Here she lays her eggs. The clutch rypi- cally consists of 5-24 eggs, although in one year the author found two durehes of 26 and 27 eggs from the same female. The eggs are incubated ar 28 (27-31) oewith moist vermiculite or perlire as sub- strate. lncubation can last between 74 and 100 days, but most often between 80 and 95 days. A table is given of the success-rare during the last eight years. The juveniles are raised in groups, all of the same clutch, and are fed all kind of insects. The receive more vitamins than the adults (5 drops in 10 mi) and marl-grit ad libitum. They are kept warm during the winter. lt is concluded that Ocellated Lizards are easy to keep and breed.
Arets, M.H.M. (2015) -
Arets, M.H.M. (2016) -
Arets, M.H.M. (2017) -
The genus Timon currently comprises six species and is distributed in Europe, Asia and North Africa. The two European species are Timon nevadensis in south-eastern Spain and Timon lepidus in the rest of the Iberian Peninsula and parts of southern France (as well as an adjacent small area in Italy). There seems to be some intergrading between those two species. Two subspecies are recognized beside the nominate form Timon lepidus lepidus: Timon lepidus ibericus in north-eastern Iberia and Timon lepidus oteroi on Illa de Sálvora. Molecular research showed recently that five different lineages can be distinguished in Timon lepidus (MIRALDO et al. 2011). The various lineages differ to some extent in colour and pattern. Recently, PEEK (2011, 2017) reported a small-bodied form of T. lepidus from the north side of the Sierra de Gredos. Moreover there are two North African species of this genus, Timon pater and Timon tangitanus. Timon princeps and T. kurdistanicus inhabit regions in Asia, the former is found in Iran and the latter in Turkey, Iran and Iraq.
Arets, M.H.M. (2021) -
Argaez Márquez, V.E. & Fargallo, J.A. (2014) -
Argana, E. & Freitas, S. & Sillero, N. & Corti, C. & Drovetski, S.V. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Ferreira, D. & Ferreira, S. & Carretero, M.A. (2013) -
Argana, E. & Sillero, N. (2011) -
Few studies have analyzed spatially the home ranges of small lizards, namely in the Iberian Peninsula. We studied the home ranges of two Iberian lacertids (Podarcis bocagei and P. hispanica) in a sympatric situation. Fieldwork was performed in a small area (Moledo beach, 0.8 ha) in the North-West of Portugal, situated within an urban area, limited by buildings, stone walls and small ields of traditional agriculture. The study area is characterized by four stones walls, and a small beach area with rocks and vegetation. Both species are in strict sympatry and present high densities. We captured 76 lizards of both species, and the exact position was geo-referenced with a professional Trimble GPS (horizontal error lower than 50 cm). We collected morphological measures, as well as tissue and blood samples; we marked the lizards with colored inks and release them in the same place of capture. We followed marked and unmarked lizards during seven days, making random paths around the stone walls and the beach. By visual contact and without recapture them, we recorded lizards’ positions with the GPS and collected other information such as species, sex, age, social interactions, environmental temperature, humidity, and substrate temperature. We calculated the home ranges of marked individuals with minimum convex polygons (MCP), within a Geographical Information System. We analyzedthe relationships between males and females of diferent species and their movements. We recorded a total of 774 individuals of Podarcis bocagei (339 females and 435 males), of which 236 were marked, and 243 individuals of Podarcis hispanica (126 females and 117 males), of which 72 were marked. Preliminary results showed movements among distant walls and overlapping of female home ranges with the home ranges of several males.
Argaz, H. & Brito, J.C. & Fahd, S. & Martinez-Freiria, F. & Boudajbir, C. & Geniez, P. (2020) -
Morocco is one of the richest countries in the Mediterranean Basin, comprising 120 terrestrial amphibians and reptiles, of which 30 are endemic species (25%). Remarkably, the genus Chalcides hits top record with nine endemic species out of 16 existing species. Updated distribution maps were elaborated for each species. A new species was added to the taxonomic list of endemics of Morocco. Three main distribution patterns regarding the occupied area and number of localities were identified: 1/ large, extensive, or widespread, 2/ punctual, and 3/ restricted distribution. Three main distribution patterns regarding the occupied region were identified: 1/ mountain, 2/ Atlantic, and 3/ southern Morocco. The areas apparently accommodating most of the endemic species are located within the Tangitan Peninsula, Atlantic coast, Rif Massif, and High and Middle Atlas.
Argüello, J.A. (1990) -
Argüello, J.A. & Salvador, A. (1988) -
Activity, temperature and habitat selection of Lacerta monticola were studies at one locality in the Cantabrian mountains. L. monticola has an unimodal pattern and is relatively inactive after midday. There is no significant different in habitat use between males, females and subadults. Lizards do not seasonally vary their patterns of habitat utilization. There is a significant correlation between body temperature and ambient temperature. Also, body temperature is significantly correlated with substrate temperature. Males, females and subadults did not differ significantly in body temperature. Body temperatures varies with time of day but not among months.
Aribas, O.J. (2008) -
Ariëns Kappers, J. (1967) -
The sensory innervation of the pineal organ of adult Lacerta viridis has been investigated. Some specimens of Lacerta muralis lillfordi were also used. In the pineal epithelium, a small number of nerve cell pericarya of a sensory type are present. They lie either solitary or in small clusters close to the basement membrane. The axons originating from the nerve cell bodies, i. e. the pineal sensory nerve fibers, first course in the intraepithelial nerve fiber layer which is only locally present and contains a restricted number of unmyelinated fibers. In Lacerta viridis, the pineal fibers generally leave the epithelium at the proximal part of the organ proper. They then form small bundles which run along the outer surface of the basement membrane in the leptomeningeal connective tissue covering. At the proximal end of the pineal stalk the single bundles assemble constituting the pineal nerve. In Lacerta muralis the fibers leave the pineal epithelium at the proximal end of the stalk running farther down within the epithelium. Many fibers become myelinated after leaving the pineal epithelium. The pineal nerve runs ventralward in the midplane just caudal to the habenular commissure to which no fibers are given off. Continuing their ventralward course between the habenular commissure and the rostral end of the posterior commissure which is traversed by some of them, the pineal fibers reach the dorsal border of the subcommissural organ. Small separate aberrant pineal bundles traverse the posterior commissure at various more caudal levels. Having reached the dorsal border of the subcommissural organ, part of the pineal fibers continue their ventralward course directly running along the lateral sides of this organ to reach the periventricular nerve fiber layer lateral and ventral to it. A restricted number of fibers first turns in a caudal direction running between the base of the posterior commissure and the base of the subcommissural organ before turning ventralward to reach the periventricular layer. Most probably, pineal fibers do neither join the posterior commissural system nor innervate the subcommissural organ. Once having reached the periventricular layer, some pineal fibers curve in a rostral direction while others, before doing so, send a collateral in a caudal direction. Both, the main fibers and the collaterals, contribute to the formation of the periventricular layer. The sites of termination of the pineal fibers could not be ascertained. From the presence of intraepithelial sensory nerve cell bodies and from literature data on the ultrastructure of pineal neurosensory cells it is concluded that the adult pineal organ of Lacerta has a, although rudimentary, (photo)sensory function. The demonstration by our guest-worker Dr. W. B. Quay, of the intraepithelial presence of a tryptamine compound, probably serotonin, points, moreover, to a secretory function of this organ. In adult Lacerta a well-developed parietal nerve connects the parietal eye with the left lateral habenular nucleus. It traverses the habenular commissure.
Arikan, H. & Atatür, M. & Çevic, I.E. & Kumlutaş, Y. (1999) -
A total of 58 (24 MM , 34 VV ) Lacerta viridis specimens, which were collected from Turkish Thrace and the Black Sea region of Anatolia, were evaluated serologically. The analyses support the view that a single race of L. viridis (L. v. meridionalis) inhabits Turkey.
Arikan, H. & Göçmen, B. & Yildiz, M.Z. & Ilgaz, Ç. & Kumlutas, Y. (2009) -
The present study is on the morphologies and sizes of peripheral blood cells (erythrocytes, leukocytes, and thrombocytes) on blood smears, stained with Wright`s stain, in some lacertid lizards species [Apathya cappadocica (Werner, 1902), Acanthodactylus boskianus (Daudin, 1802), Acanthodactylus harranensis Baran et al. 2005, Anatolacerta danfordi (Günther, 1876), Darevskia praticola (Eversmann, 1834), D. uzzelli (Darevsky and Danielyan, 1977), D. valentini (Boettger, 1892), Parvilacerta parva (Boulenger, 1887), Lacerta pamphylica Schmidtler, 1975, L. trilineata Bedriaga, 1886, L. viridis (Laurenti, 1768), Ophisops elegans Menetries, 1832, Mesalina brevirostris Blanford, 1876, Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768), P. sicula (Rafinesque-Schmaltz, 1810), Timon princeps (Blanford, 1874)] from Turkey. As a result of our survey, it was determined that the blood cells of the investigated species are shows significant variations in sizes and of leukocytes, agranulocytic leukocytes (lymphocytes and monocytes) are present as predominant cells. Moreover, of granulocytes, neutrophils were no observed in A. danfordi, D. praticola, D. uzzelli, and P. parva.
Arillo, A. & Balletto, E. & Spanò, S. (1965) -
Arillo, A. & Balletto, E. & Spanò, S. (1967) -
Armengol, I. & de Urioste, J.A. (2013) -
Armitage, J. (1939) -
Armstrong, J.A. (1950) -
1. A description has been given of the normal histological appearance of thalamic, pretectal and midbrain centres related to the optic tracts in Lacerta vivipara. They are compared with corresponding structures described in other reptiles. 2. Silver impregnation of the brain after removal of an eye has revealed axonal and terminal degenerative changes, essentially similar to those which occur in mammals, except that they develop more slowly. 3. Twenty brains prepared by silver impregnation and two treated by the Marchi method have been utilized for the study of the course and distribution of degenerated fibres of retinal origin. Evidence was obtained for the following main conclusions: (a) That the optic nerve contains only afferent fibres. (b) That decussation of the optic nerves is almost, but not quite, complete. (c) That crossed retinal fibres terminate in the lateral geniculate nucleus, in the nucleus geniculatus pretectalis, in the nucleus lentiformis mesencephali, in the superficial layers of the optic tectum (including the stratum zonale) and in the nucleus opticus tegmenti. A few may also end in the nucleus pretectalis. (d) That the basal optic root is composed entirely of crossed retinal fibres. (e) That uncrossed retinal fibres form a small fascicle on the outer surface of the optic tract, some probably having connexions in the rostral thalamus with the pars ventralis of the lateral geniculate nucleus. (f) That as the optic tract runs on the lateral surface of the thalamus it contains in its deeper part numerous non-retinal fibres. Many of these appear to cross in the ventral supraoptic decussation. 4. The organization of the visual system in Lacerta has been compared with those in Amphibia and mammals. The possibility of homology has been discussed, with special reference to the lateral geniculate nucleus. This work has been carried out under the direction of Prof. F. Goldby of the Department of Anatomy, St Mary`s Hospital Medical School. I should like to express my thanks for the advice and criticism which he has given throughout.
Arnau, M.A.M. & Liberos Saura, C. & Serrano Elzaguerri, F.J. & Rosado Romero, F. (2002) -
In this article we provide new data of amphibians and reptiles distribution in Teruel province: 81 unpublished records. These records constitute the first observation for a given herpetological specie in a 10 km x 10 UTM square. As a result of a bibliographical review until January 2004, the species cited in Teruel province are 30: 8 species of amphibians and 22 of reptiles, one of these reptiles has been introduced, Trachemys scripta.
Arndt, S. (1991) -
Arndt, S. (1993) -
Arndt, S. (1994) -
Arndt, S. (1999) -
Im Jahre 1999 wurde Podarcis muralis merremia in einer kleinen Population inmitten der Bonner Innenstadt festgestellt. Das Vorkommen befindet sich in einem künstlichen Habitat und ist nicht autochthon.
Arndt, S. & Bischoff, W. (1992) -
Arnold, A. (2012) -
Mit der Ausbreitung von Arten durch menschliche Einflüsse in Gebiete, in denen die zuvor nicht heimisch waren, beschäftigt sich ein ganzer Zweig der Biologie, die Invasionsbiologie. Zwei eher kurios anmutende Beispiele belegen die unbeabsichtigte Verschleppung von Eidechsen in menschlicher Kleidung bzw. im Gepäck.
Arnold, A. (2014) -
Im Nordwesten von Leipzig wurden von 2006 bis August 2013 insgesamt 116 Beobachtungsdaten der vier hier gegenwärtig bodenständigen und einer allochthonen Reptilienarten gesammelt und ausgewertet. Dominierende Art ist mit 58 Nachweisen die Zauneidechse, gefolgt von Ringelnatter (40), Waldeidechse (9), Blindschleiche (8) und der eingeschleppten Mauereidechse mit nur einem Nachweis. Einen relativ hohen Anteil an den Nachweisen haben Totfunde, wovon ganz besonders die Ringelnatter betroffen ist, bei der über 50 % der Nachweise Totfunde sind.
Arnold, E.N. (1970) -
Arnold, E.N. (1972) -
Oman material of four lizard species is described and discussed ; it comprises specimens of a previously undescribed gecko, Phyllodactylus gallagheri, two lacertids — the poorly known Lacerta jayakari Boulenger, 1887, and L. cyanura, also described here for the first time, and a skink, Ablepharus pannonicus Lichtenstein, 1823. These species have no strong affinities with any members of the mainly Saharo-Sindian fauna now occupying much of Arabia but are closely related to forms occurring to the north of the peninsula. It is probable that they are relicts of a more temperate fauna which once entered more extensively into southeastern Arabia. As might be expected, all four species are absent from the desert areas of Oman and are confined to the disjunct mesic habitats which exist in the mountains.
Arnold, E.N. (1973) -
Algyroides fitzingeri, Algyroides marchi, Algyroides moreoticus, Algyroides nigropunctatus, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta lepida, Lacerta princeps, Lacerta schreiberi, Lacerta strigata, Lacerta trilineata, Lacerta viridis, Lacerta andreanszkyi, Lacerta armeniaca, Lacerta bedriagae, Lacerta brandtii, Lacerta cappadocica, Lacerta caucasica, Lacerta chlorogaster, Lacerta cyanura, Lacerta danfordi, Lacerta derjugini, Lacerta dugesii, Lacerta fraasii, Lacerta graeca, Lacerta horvathi, Lacerta jayakari, Lacerta laevis, Lacerta monticola, Lacerta mosorensis, Lacerta oxycephala, Lacerta parva, Lacerta perspicillata, Lacerta praticola, Lacerta rudis, Lacerta saxicola, Lacerta vivipara, Gallotia atlantica, Gallotia galloti, Gallotia simonyi, Podarcis erhardii, Podarcis filfolensis, Podarcis hispanica, Podarcis lilfordi, Podarcis melisellensis, Podarcis milensis, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis peloponnesiaca, Podarcis pityusensis, Podarcis sicula, Podarcis taurica, Podarcis tiliguerta, Podarcis wagleriana, Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus blanci, Psammodromus hispanicus, Psammodromus microdactylus.
Arnold, E.N. (1980) -
Some 500 Dhofar reptiles and amphibians are discussed and a minimum of 48 terrestrial species recognised for the area of which 5 were previously undescribed; these are a gecko, Hemidactylus lemurinus, and the lacertids Acanthodactylus felicis, A. opheodurus,A. masirae and Mesalina ayunensis; a new subspecies of gecko from north Oman, Bunopus spatalurus hajarensis is also reported. Various other species are reviewed; it appears that Bunopus abudhabi is a synonym of B. blanfordi, which is probably conspecific with B. tuberculatus, Hemidactylus parkeri is regarded as a subspecies of H. turcicus, the Arabian agamas of the Agama cyanogaster group are shown to include 2 species to which the names adramitana and yemenensis are applicable although their status relative to African populations in the group is not clear; A. jayakari is conspecific with A. flavimaculata, and A. neumanni with A. sinaita; Chamaeleo chamaeleon orientalis is similar to more northern populations of C. chamaeleon but C. c. arabicus is very well differentiated and may be a separate species, the use of genitalia in the classification of Acanthodactylus is emphasised and A. arabicus, A. blanfordi and A. schmidti are all given full species status; the recognition of Mesalina as a genus indepemdemt of Eremias is confirmed, it is suggestes that Atractaspis engeddensis may be conspecific with A. microlepidota and that Lytorhynchus gaddi is a synonym of L. diadema; the distinctive population of Echis carinatus in Dhofar appears to be closely related to those in south-west Arabia and adjoining Africa but animals from northern Oman and the rest of south-west Asia are very different. Additional specimens are reported of Bunopus s. spatalurus and Coluber thomasi, both previously known from only 2 individuals. Geographical variations of a number of species is discribed including 3 geckos that show very considerable differences within southern Dhofar: Hemidactylus homocolepis, H. yerburii and Tropiocolotes scorteccii. Observations on the ecology of many species are noted, especially for the aberrant gecko genus Pristurus, one species of which, P. carteri, behaves like a small, ground-dwelling diurnal agamid. Resource partition, at least amongst the lizards, appears to be largely based on parameters of time, food (especially prey size), hunting method and space. A number of forms occourring in both noreth Oman and Dhofar show differences in niche in the two areas apparently related to the presence of absence of a competitor. Several species are recorded from Dhofar for the first time including Bunopus spatalurus, Hemidactylus flaviviridis, H. turcicus parkeri, Pristurus minimus, Agama adramitana, Acanthodactylus boskianus,Mabuya tessellata, Leptotyphlops macrorhynchus and Lytorhynchus diadema. The herpetofauna of the area can be divided into a largely northern element of desert-adapted forms widespread in the Arabian peninsula and a more peripheral element in the south which shows considerably more affinity to south-west Arabia than to northern Oman. No reptile of amphibian endemics occur in the forested areas of Dhofar but 3 species present in the drymesic habitats on the north side of the mountains may be restricted to the region. Acanthodactylus opheodurus, Acanthodactylus felicis, Acanthodactylus masirae, Acanthodactylus boskianus, Acanthodactylus schmidti, Mesalina adramitana, Mesalina ayunensis.
Arnold, E.N. (1983) -
Arnold, E.N. (1984) -
Aspects of the ecology of 23 lizard species found in the coastal lowlands of eastern Arabia are reported. Most forms occur in arid environments. The most obvious ecological separation is between diurnal and nocturnal species, the 10 latter all being geckos. Within these 2 groupings, species differ principally in microhabitat (particularly such features as distance from vegetation and ground softness), hunting techniques (sit and wait, active search or slow visual scanning) and the size of their mainly arthropod prey. However, 2 large diurnal forms are food specialists, feeding largely on plants and small vertebrates, respectively, and some diurnal species show differences in time of activity during morning. Body temperature of day-active species is controlled by posture, retreat into shade or burrows and use of the ground as a heat sink. Most nocturnal forms have body temperatures close to the ambient but they may sometimes be elevated in Bunopus tuberculatus, perhaps as a result of utilizing underground warmth. A wide range of predator avoidance techniques is used. Females are mainly gravid in spring. The number of eggs carried is low in species of small body size (often 1-2), suggesting that egg-laying is repetitive. Gross body shape is related to hunting and escape technique, foot structure to substratum type, and species living on soft sand have modifications that exclude sand from body orifices.
The ability to shed (autotomize) all or part of the tail, usually in response to predator attack, and often to subsequently regenerate it is widespread in lizards and amphisbaenians and also occurs in a few snakes and in the tuatara. Most species possess a sophisticated intravertebral autotomy mechanism which seems to be primitive in the Squamata. This appears to have been independently lost in members of many groups, but some agamids and snakes have regained the ability to shed their tails by a simpler intervertebral means and a -number of agamids have also redeveloped tail regeneration as well. Breakable tails are used to evade capture in two main ways: by enabling reptiles to break away from predators that have grasped them by the tail and by providing a distraction which deflects the attention of the attacker away from the vulnerable head and body. It is argued that loss of caudal autotomy has occurred when the costs of tail shedding outweigh its benefits. Likely costs include the expense of regrowing the tail and the loss of a variety of possible tail functions that may cause partial incapacitation, at least until the tail regenerates. Benefits of autotomy are liable to be low if predation is rare, if the animal is able to protect itself effectively in other ways, if it is too slow to evade further pursuit after the tail is shed, or if the tail is small or unpalatable and consequently not likely to distract a predator. Benefit variation may well be greater than cost variation and therefore more important in initiating the loss of autotomy mechanisms. Many taxa that do not shed the tail appear to conform to the above interpretation, but in some cases, such as the Platynota, Agamidae and Chamaeleonidae, lack of intravertebral autotomy may reflect the history of these groups rather than being a direct result of present ecological pressures. The distribution of intervertebral autotomy in the Agamidae suggests that it may have evolved only in rather special circumstances where tail fragility is advantageous even in the absence of the ability to regenerate. Restriction ot autotomy planes to the tail-base, so that the whole organ is lost, a condition found in a number of relatively slow-moving geckoes, is interpreted as a means of ensuring that enough of the tail is shed to distract a predator from further pursuit. The stimulus necessary to induce autotomy can vary rapidly in individual lizards and at least some of these changes probably maximize the effectiveness of the tail-shedding mechanism. Differences in the readiness with which all or part of the tail is shed exist between species and are likely to reflect the balance of costs and benefits in particular cases. Variations in incidence of broken tails between species and populations may be due to such differences in fragility but many other factors may play a part, including the age structure of samples, incidence of unsuccessful attacks by predators and ability to evade predators after autotomy. There is a clear tendency for climbing lizards, especially those living on rock surfaces, to have higher incidences of broken tails than ground-dwelling species, perhaps because the tail is usually less important in locomotion in the first group. Many lizards possess conspicuously coloured tails and tail movements that seem likely to help distract attention from the head and body. Conspicuous tail colouring is more frequent and often better developed in young animals, which tend to be more vulnerable than adults, and in active species from open habitats where crypsis may not always be very effective. Conspicuous tails usually have contrasting light and dark areas in nocturnal forms but are often a single bright colour in diurnal ones, probably reflecting the visual capacities of their respective predators. The predominance of blue tails in day-active species may be because this colour is striking close to but not very arresting at a distance, so it may not attract predators from far away while still drawing their attention at close quarters.
Arnold, E.N. (1986) -
The basic anatomy of the lacertid hemipenis (intromittent organ) and methods for its investigation are described. In many members of the Lacertidae, the hemipenis has a structure quite unlike that of other squamate reptiles: the distal lobes of the retracted organ are complexly folded and there is a well-defined supporting structure of dense connective tissue, the armature. This incorporates blood sinuses and has an intramuscular portion embedded in the m. retractor penis magnus and two club-shaped bodies, the clavulae, that support the lobes in the erect organ. Unarmatured hemipenes occur in some lacertids and, like those of other squamates, possess sac-like lobes in the retracted state, but they are singular in having the lobes invested by the m. retractor penis magnus. It is argued that many of these apparently primitive hemipenes are in fact secondary derivatives of the armatured type. There is considerable inter-specific variation in hemipenial structure which is described systematically. In some cases this involves differences in size, asymmetry and simplification, which may arise as physical isolating mechanisms and is useful in distinguishing otherwise very similar species, particularly in the genus Mesalina (p. 1253). Other shared derived hemipenial features provide useful information about relationships between species and higher taxa and a summary of the hypotheses that they support is given (p. 1254).
The structure of copulatory organs is used very widely in systematics, both for differentiating species and for working out relationships. Differences between taxa may arise from a variety of sources, including non-homology, differences in other parts of the animal, direct selection on copulatory organs, development of physical isolating mechanisms and pleiotropic events. Physical isolating mechanisms seem likely to account for the abrupt differences, involving size, asymmetry and simplifications, that are useful in distinguishing very similar lacertid species. Although these differences usually seem to arise at the end of a speciation event they can simultaneously be the initiating mechanism in a second one. Copulatory organs appear to have high inherent stability, probably resulting from frequent location in strongly homoeostatic environments, single function, insensitivity to niche shift and inertia due to the need to conform to the genitalia of the opposite sex. This stability may be overridden at times by direct selection on the organs themselves or pleiotropic events. Such changes tend to be retained because efficiency in copulation depends not on any absolute genital architecture but on close conformity of the organs. It is the combination of relative stability and tangible input of varied change, which tends to be retained, that so often makes these structures good indicators of relationship.
A new species of Acanthodactylus, A. tilburyi, is described from north and central Saudi Arabia. It occurs on aeolian sand slopes and is most closely related to A. gongrorhynchatus and A. haasi.
A key and check list is provided to the 96 species and six additional subspecies of lizards and two species of amphisbaenians known to occur in and around Arabia. Philochortus neumanni, Lacerta jayakari, Lacerta cyanura, Latastia longicaudata andersonii, Mesalina guttulata, Mesalina olivieri, Mesalina martini, Mesalina brevirostris, Mesalina ayunensis, Mesalina adramitana, Acanthodactylus orientalis, Acanthodactylus robustus, Acanthodactylus opheodurus, Acanthodactylus boskianus, Acanthodactylus felicis, Acanthodactylus yemenicus, Acanthodactylus masirae, Acanthodactylus opheodurus, Acanthodactylus gongrorhynchatus, Acanthodactylus haasi, Acanthodactylus schmidti, Acanthodactylus blanfordii, Acanthodactylus arabicus, Acanthodactylus grandis, Acanthodactylus tilburyi, Acanthodactylus scutellatus hardyi.
Arnold, E.N. (1987) -
Twenty-four species of lacertid lizards were examined at 31 sites in western Yogoslavia, Greece and Iberia. Comparative observations were made on over 4500 individual lizards, noting such features as times of activitiy, hunting methods, diet, micro- and macrohabitat, refuges used and body temperature. These data are used as a basis for assessing resource partition in related sympatric species, for find out whether different systematic groups have characteristic types of niche, and for comparing cumminity structures in the peninsulas of southern Europa. Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Algyroides marchi, Algyroides moreoticus, Algyroides nigropunctatus, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta graeca, Lacerta horvathi, Lacerta lepida, Lacerta monticola, Lacerta oxycephala, Lacerta mosorensis, Lacerta schreiberi, Lacerta trilineata, Lacerta viridis, Lacerta vivipara, Podarcis bocagei, Podarcis erhardii, Podarcis hispanica, Podarcis melisellensis, Podarcis milensis, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis peloponnesiaca, Podarcis sicula, Podarcis taurica, Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus hispanicus.
Arabia, including the arid lowland regions of Jordan, Syria, Iraq and southwest Iran, has approximately 128 species of terrestrial reptiles and about 7 of amphibians. Endemicity is high, 55% of species being largely or entirely confined to the area. Abrupt faunal discontinuities are present between Arabia and neighbouring regions, namely the Horn of Africa, the Sahara desert and the relatively mesic areas to the north. However, there must have been substantial interchange with these areas in the past. Within Arabia, the main Zoogeographie division is between the arid regions occupying most of the peninsula and much smaller, often more mesic areas of endemicity in the south. The former are mainly occupied by Saharo-Sindian taxa and have rather more affinities with the Sahara than to arid regions east of Arabia. Southern areas of endemicity include: 1. The southwestern coast, with affinities to the Horn of Africa and the inland deserts of Arabia. 2. The southwest and southern highlands which share a number of forms with northeast African relationships but differ significantly, the former having more, often endemic species with African affinities and a number with relatives in the Mediterranean and other northern mesic regions. The drier southern mountains have their own endemics, some of which have representatives in the öiddat al-HaräsIs area to the east. 3. The north Oman mountains also possess distinctive species and populations, some of which are related to forms in the less arid parts of the Iranian area. Finally there are a number of mesic forms distributed around the periphery of Arabia, and populations at oasis sites in the arid region which are probably relicts of forms more widespread in Quaternary pluvial phases.
Arnold, E.N. (1989) -
Abstract The Equatorial African group of lacertids comprises nine species which share a number of derived features and appear to constitute a holophyletic assemblage. Revision of the group using morphological characters analyzed by parsimony and compatibility methods results in the following taxonomic changes: Lacerta jacksoni = Adolfus jacksoni, Lacerta echinata = Gastropholis echinata, Bedriagaia tropidopholis = Gastropholis tropidopholis, Bedriagaia moreavi = Gastropholis prasina, the latter species being validated and removed from the synonymy of Gastropholis vittata. Adolfus jacksoni has most features in common with the hypothetical ancestor of the group, while Holaspis guentheri and the species of Gastropholis are the most derived forms. Geographical variation in Adolfus alleni is described and what is known of the ecology of the Equatorial group summarized. Most are forest dwellers with the majority of the more primitive forms living on tree boles and among litter and timber on the forest floor (Adolfus jacksoni, A. africanus, A. vauereselli). Another, Holaspis guentheri, is confined to tree boles but glides between them, while the species of Gastropholis appear to be climbers in flimsy vegetation and Adolfus alleni is ground-dwelling above the tree line. Many of the morphological features characterizing these lizards appear to be functionally related to their particular habitats.
Relationships of lacertid lizards were assessed on the basis of 84 primary and 112 binary characters drawn mainly from morphology, including features of the skeleton, external anatomy, various internal soft part systems and two aspects of behaviour. Among features not previously used, or not fully investigated before, are structure of the septomaxilla and nasal passages, arranged of the xiphisternal cartilages, mite pockets, kidney position, ulnar nerve arragement, thoracic fascia, aspects of the hemipenis and its associated muscles, female genitalia and jaw muscles. On the basis of parsimony analysis and compatibilty treatment of this character set, the Lacertidae fall into two main portions: A paraphyletic Palaearctic and Oriental group of primitive forms, from which is derived a holophyletic assemblage of Ethiopian and advanced Saharan and Eurasian taxa. The former group ist not fully resolvable, but Psammodromus and Gallotia appear to be sister groups and are probably related to Lacerta parva and L. fraasi and then L. brandtii, Podarcis appears to be related successively to L. andreanszkyi, the sister species L. dugesii and L. perspicillata, and perhaps L. danfordi and L. laevis. This assemblage may be related to archaeolacertas and Algyroides. The separation of Lacerta lepida, L. pater and L. princeps from the agilis group, based on chemical evidence, is weakly contradicted by morphology. Takydromus may be most closely related to L. vivipara, and L. jayakari and L. cyanura constitute the most likely sister group of the Ethiopian and advanced Saharo-Eurasian assemblage. Taxe in the Ethiopian and advanced SaharoEuroasian assemblage form a long essentially pectinate tree with relatively change between the side branches, except for a strong disjunction separating the more primitive from the more advanced taxa. Most of the former fall on two main branches, with ´Lacerta` australis and ´L.` rupicola possibly basal to them. 1. the Equatorial forest group containing Gastropholis, Bedriagaia, ´Lacerta` echinata, Adolfus, ´Lacerta` jacksoni and Holaspis. The first three of these constitute a holophyletic group and the same is probably true of the remainder. 2. Tropidosaura, Poromera and Nucras, the latter being the sister group of the more advanced forms. These include successively the Ethiopian Philochortus, Latastia, Ichnotropis and Heliobolus, Pseuderemias, Meroles and Aporosaura, and Pedioplanis, and then the Saharo-Eurasian Eremias, Acanthodactylus, Mesalina and Ophisops-Cabrita. It seems probable that the ancestors of modern Lacertidae arose in western Eurasia, where the family is known since the Palaeocene and is still represented there largely by quite primitive forms (89 species and seven nominal genera). The family later invaded Africa, perhaps first in the early or middle Miocene. Relatively primitive lacertids spread widely in largely mesic situations in the Ethiopian region, radiating to some extent (six present genera and 16 species) and producing Nucras and the related series of advaned groups (eight genera and 54 species) whoich show increasing adaptation to xeric environments. These genera tend to have heir most primitive species in the northeast and north of the Ethiopian region. The most advaned gave rise to the Saharo-Eurasian clade, now made up to Eremias, Acanthodactylus, Mesalina and Ophisops-Cabrita. This invaded the arid areas of North Africa and Eurasia, where it is presently represented by 70 species. Many morphological changes in increasingly advanced lacertids may be functionally related to the problems of survival in arid, hot, open environments. Considerable ecological parallelism exists in lacertids, with members of separate stocks occupying similar niches in different geographical areas. Morphological adaptations associated with these niches contribute significantly to the high levels of character homoplasy found in the family. There is also some correlation between the degree of niche differentiation in various groups and the quality of the phylogenies that can be produced from their physical characters. A number of morphological parallels exist between advaned lacertids and New World macroteiids. In the skull at least, advaned lacertids show a complex mixture of paedomorphosis and acceleration. Nomenclatorial changes are as follows: Cabrita is synonymised with Ophisops, necessitating a new name, Ophisops nictans, for Cabrita jerdonii. Aporosaura is synonymised with Meroles, Platyplacopus with Takydromus, and Bedriagaia with Gastropholis. ´Lacerta` (or Centromastyx) echinata is also transferred to the latter genus and Lacerta jacksoni to Adolfus. ´Lacerta` australis and ´L.` rupicola are put in a new genus, Australolacerta. It is recommended that Lacerta dugesii and L. perspicillata should not be placed in the otherwise very uniform genus Podarcis. Although clearly paraphyletic, Lacerta s. lat. Should be retained at least for the present and, if necessary putative relationships within it indicated by informal groups or subgenera.
Arnold, E.N. (1990) -
Phylogenies based on morphology vary considerably in their quality: some are robust and explicit with little conflict in the data set, whereas others are far more tenuous, with much conflict and many possible alternatives. The main primary reasons for untrue or inexplicit morphological phylogenies are: not enough characters developed between branching points, uncertain character polarity, poorly differentiated character states, homoplasy caused by parallelism or reversal, and extinction, which may remove species entirely from consideration and can make originally conflicting data sets misleadingly compatible, increasing congruence at the expense of truth. Extinction differs from other confounding factors in not being apparent either in the data set or in subsequent analysis. One possibility is that variation in the quality of morphological phylogenies has resulted from exposure to different ecological situations. To investigate this, it is necessary to compare the histories of the clades concerned. In the case of explicit morphological phylogenies, ecological and behavioural data can be integrated with them and it may then be possible to decide whether morphological characters are likely to have been elicited by the environments through which the clade has passed. The credibility of such results depends not only on the phylogeny being robust but also on its detailed topology: a pectinate phylogeny will often allow more certain and more explicit statements to be made about historical events. In the case of poor phylogenies, it is not possible to produce detailed histories, but they can be compared with robust phylogenies in the range of ecological situations occupied, and whether they occupy novel situations in comparison with their outgroups. LeQuesne testing can give information about niche homoplasy, and it may also be possible to see if morphological features are functionally associated with ecological parameters, even if the direction of change is unknown. Examination of the robust and explicit phylogeny of the semaphore geckoes (Pristurus) suggests that its quality does stem from a variety of environmental factors. The group has progressed along an ecological continuum, passing through a series of increasingly severe niches that appear to have elicited many morphological changes. The fact that niches are progressively filled reduces the likelihood of species reinvading a previous one with related character reversal. Because the niches of advanced Pristurus are virtually unique within the Gekkonidae the morphological changes produced are also very rare and therefore easy to polarize. Ecological changes on the main stem of the phylogeny are abrupt and associated character states consequently well differentiated. The small geographical distribution of the group reduces the chance of different forms entering the same niche and developing morphological parallelisms. Many species are represented because there are many refuge areas within the geographical distribution of Pristurus and also because the fact that niches are well differentiated reduces the chance of extinction by species competition. Examination of ten other lizard clades, mainly in the Lacertidae, shows that the historical features noted in Pristurus also occur in other groups with robust and explicit morphological phylogenies, such as Meroles and Gastropholis. On the other hand, they are often absent in assemblages where phylogenetic hypotheses based on anatomy are poorly supported or equivocal, for example Podarcis and Pedioplanis. The amount of alteration of genital features is not as closely associated with environmental factors as in many other morphological characters, possibly because ecological shifts do not affect them so directly and because they have their own special causes of change. This partial independence from the environmental factors that appear to control many characters means that genital features may enable some phylogeny reconstruction to be done, even when other systems are unhelpful. There is no evidence among the studied clades that groups with poor morphological phylogenies have inherent general constraints on the development and maintenance of new structural features. It seems that the quality of morphological phylogenies may give some indication of the kinds of history groups have had. Clearly, if the variety of ways in which evolution proceeds is to be understood, groups with both good and bad morphological phylogenies must be investigated.
Arnold, E.N. (1991) -
Phylogenetic analyses, using parsimony and compatibility methods, were carried out on the South African lacertid lizards assigned in recent times to Aporosaura, Meroles and Pedioplanis. These were based on 80 primary and 102 binary morphological characters which were drawn from osteology, external features, muscles, kidneys and reproductive systems. Contrary to some previous interpretations, there are two well-defined clades: Meroles plus Aporosaura, and Pedioplanis; these form successive branches on the main stem of the phylogeny of advanced lacertids. The clades show considerable parallel development of derived features, presumably because they had very similar initial genetic potential. Relationships within the two groups are shown on p. 800 and p. 802. As Aporosaura anchietae is sister taxon to a clade consisting of three of the seven species of Meroles, it has been transferred to that genus. Relationships in Meroles-Aporosaura are very well substantiated, in contrast to the situation in Pedioplanis. This difference appears to be related to the different kinds of evolutionary history that the two groups have had. The Meroles-Aporosaura clade has spread progressively into increasingly stringent and singular aeolian sand environments which have elicited the production of many, often unique, derived character states related to the functional problems of survival in such situations. As these states are rarely duplicated in outgroups, the characters concerned are easily polarized. This, together with their abundance, means that a robust basis for phylogenetic inference is available. In contrast, Pedioplanis exhibits relatively limited ecological radiation of a kind that also occurs in related groups, and the functionally related derived states elicited are fewer and less distinctive. In fact, production of a phylogeny for Pedioplanis is very dependent on genital characters which seem to be substantially independent of the main ecological changes that have occurred in the genus. The premaxilla is embraced dorsally by the anterior processes of the maxillae in most lacertids, but the processes are less extensive in two sister species of Pedioplanis, P. burchelli and P. laticeps. This modified condition also occurs in the genera Eremias, Acanthodactylus, Mesalina and Ophisops, which together constitute a clade that forms the sister group of Pedioplanis. The modification provides extra evidence for the holophyly of the clade, even though presence in some Pedioplanis shows it to be homoplasious.
Arnold, E.N. (1993) -
Estimates of phylogeny may allow historical events to be reconstructed even without a fossil record. The reliability of such interpretations depends not only on the robustness of the phylogeny but also on its topology. Changes in individual features can be traced and general histories of groups developed and compared with each other. Results are ofter surprising, for Instance the sophisticated tail shedding mechanism of lizards turns out to be a primitive feature that has been lost many times. Similarly, ecological analogues may have developed their common characaters in quite different orders. Phylogenies also provide a way of recognizing constraints and the effects of history on present ecological and behavioural patterns. When using anatomical characters the quality of the apparent phylogenies produced may be related to ecological history: expansion of a group along an ecological continuum into increasingly demanding niches ina small geographical area tends to produce a robust phylogeny (for instance in Meroles), while this is often not so for widely distributed groups that occupy a more modest range of niches (such as Pedioplanis and Podarcis). Non-morphological data may not show this tendency, but can have their own problems. Lacertids can be referred to clade with many successive branches in Africa and the Saharo-Eurasian arid zones and a less resolved probably paraphyletic complex of more primitive forms in the Mediterranean and wider Palaearctic areas. The African-Eurasian clade shows a general trend towards ground-dwelling and increasingly arid habitats but is ecologically variied. These animals are important to the study of Mediterranean forms because they provide eco-morphological parallels to them (for instance to Algyroides, Psammodromus and the archaeolacertas) and help form a basis for testing hypotheses about function. Although it is possible to recognise a number of distinct clades among the Mediterranean and Eurasian forms, relationships within and between these are often much less well substantiated. If results are available in time, current work on mitochondrial DNA sequencing will be discussed.
Arnold, E.N. (1994) -
Ecological analogues provide an opportunity to assess the regularity of the evolutionary process and some of the factors that control this. By using cladistic methods of phylogeny reconstruction, it is possible to see if two or more stocks have responded in the same way to similar environments, or whether factors such as accident, contingency and previous history have restricted such orderliness. A method is described for comparing the sequences in which ecological analogues assemble their common traits, including ways of handling incomplete data and of testing the statistical significance of the results. The method is applied to situations that mainly involve lizard groups independently associated with aeolian sand habitats. A case where the lineages concerned are closely related is contrasted with two where this is not so. The first instance involves an intrafamilial comparison of three members of the lacertid genera Meroles and Acanthodactylus, which show strong concordance in trait order and great similarity in their independently acquired traits. The other comparisons are of members of different families: Meroles anchietae (Lacertidae), Uma (Phrynosomatidae), Phrynocephalus arabicus (Agamidae) and Pristurus carteri (Gekkonidae). Here concordance in trait order is much lower and independently developed traits often show substantial differences in the various groups. The principal reason for the disparity in results appears to be the much longer and more varied separate histories of the lineages involved in the interfamilial comparisons before they finally entered aeolian sand. These historical differences result in particular independently acquired features developing much earlier in some lineages than others and in the development of phylogenetic constraints and proclivities that influence the detailed ways some environmental problems are solved. Finally, no evidence could be found that traits which evolve in similar sequences in different lineages are developmentally interconnected.
Arnold, E.N. (1995) -
The effects of previous history on adaptation can be studied in situations where several taxa have been independently exposed to a well-specified problem posed by their selective regimes. This approach was applied to the ways surface-dwelling dune lizards dive rapidly into loose sand when evading predators. Lacertids of the genus Meroles use all limbs and serpentine body and tail movements, behaviour which arose directly in the context of predator evasion in sandy habitats. The agamids, Phrynocephalus and Agama etoshae employ lateral body oscillations and descend vertically, an aberrant method resulting from previous evolution of a blunt snout. The scincid, Scincus and gerrhosaurid, Angolosaurus, both use high amplitude sinusoidal movements of the body and tail, which apparently evolved in a common ancestor of these taxa long before being co-opted to use in sand. In contrast, the scincid, Mabuya acutilabris, holds the body straight, a method that probably originated in the context of concealment at the end of activity. In the phrynosomatid, Uma, the head oscillates up to 60 times per second, the forelimbs are folded back and hindlimb thrust is supplemented by scales on the upper arms acting like ratchets. Some components of this method originated in the context of slow concealment in firm substrata at the end of activity periods, a basic pattern later co-opted for rapid diving in compact sand with modification of the snout to form a drill. Finally, this elaborated mechanism was transferred to loose sand with further behavioural and morphological change. Rapid sand burial by Phrynosoma species has the same origin as that in Uma but, like Phrynocephalus, includes a strong vertical component. It too is associated with a blunt snout which, however, arose after initial burial behaviour developed, not before. These results suggest that, once related lineages have diverged, differences may still accumulate even in similar situations. Sand diving also exhibits striking cases of convergence and provides an example of how function can be used to polarize characters, suggest the situations in which derived states arose and indicate their likely order of change.
Arnold, E.N. (1996) -
Arnold, E.N. (1997) -
The east Asian lacertid lizard genus,Takydromus, is well-defined but its relationships to other primitive Palaearctic lacertids are still uncertain and, although it has similarities to the lower Miocene Miolacerta, Takydromus does not appear to be identical with this. The 16 or 17 recognizable species are reviewed and a key provided for their identification; the remaining area of uncertainty about species boundaries is the Takydromus sexlineatus group in Assam. A phylogeny forTakydromusis estimated using a data set of 35 morphological characters drawn from external features, skeleton and soft-parts. There are two main constituent clades which may be informally recognized asTakydromus s.s.and Platyplacopus. Platyplacopusis subtropical and perhaps relict, whereasTakydromus ranges from temperate to tropical areas. The two clades have different ranges of eggs per clutch. In both of them, elongate forms that climb extensively in flimsy vegetation have evolved and have independently acquired similar features that confer performance advantages in this situation. Interestingly, the order of assembly of these features is markedly different.
The east Asian lacertid lizard genus, Takydromus, is well-defined but its relationships to other primitive Palaearctic lacertids are still uncertain and, although it has similarities to the lower Miocene Miolacerta. Takydromus does not appear to be identical with this. The 16 or 17 recognizable species are reviewed and a key provided for their identification; the remaining area of uncertainty about species boundaries is the Takydromus sexlineatus group in Assam. A phylogeny for Takydromus is estimated using a data set of 35 morphological characters drawn from external features, skeleton and soft-parts. There are two main constituent clades which may be informally recognized as Takydromus s.s. and Platyplacopus. Platyplacopus is subtropical and perhaps relict, whereas Takydromus ranges from temperature to tropical areas. The two clades have different ranges of eggs per clutch. In both of them, elongate forms that climb-extensively in flimsy vegetation have evolved and have independently acquired similar features that confer performance advantages in this situation. Interestingly, the order of assembly of these features is markedly different.
Arnold, E.N. (1998) -
Arnold, E.N. (2000) -
It has recently been suggested that the gender of Podarcis (the European and Northwest African Wall lizards) is masculine, which would change the accepted endings of the names of six species and additional subspecies. This course is rejected, on the basis of the invalidity of the arguments put forward for masculine gender, its potential disturbance of the settled nomenclature and the confusion it would cause among non-specialist users.
Arnold, E.N. (2001) -
Arnold, E.N. (2002) -
Holaspis is the most morphologically apomorphic lacertid taxon with 42 or more derived morphological features arising on its exclusive lineage. Nearly all of these confer advantages in three specialised activities, or ameliorate problems resulting from them. The activities are: climbing on the often vertical open surfaces on tree boles and branches, utilising very narrow crevices in wood and beneath bark, and the ability, unique among lacertids, to glide from tree to tree. Although many of the features related to these activities are likely to result from direct adaptation to the situations concerned, exaptation has been critical in the development of gliding. Two behaviours present in the earliest lacertids have been coopted to this activity: rib spreading associated with basking contributes to an effective aerofoil, and balance control associated with running helps maintain appropriate posture in the air. Features originally developed in the context of crevice use also contribute to the aerofoil and a high surface: weight ratio. So, while natural selection has moulded Holaspis for its present activities, multiple accidents of history have also been important, as they also have in the evolution of bird flight.
Differences in surface structure (ober- hautchen) of body scales of lacertid lizards involve cell size, shape and surface profile, presence or absence of fine pitting, form of cell margins, and the occurrence of longitudinal ridges and pustular projections. Phylogenetic information indicates that the primitive pattern involved narrow strap-shaped cells, with low posteriorly overlapping edges and relatively smooth surfaces. Deviations from this condition produce a more sculptured surface and have developed many times, although subsequent overt reversals are uncommon. Like variations in scale shape, different patterns of dorsal body microornamentation appear to confer different and conflicting performance advantages. The primitive pattern may reduce friction during locomotion and also enhances dirt shedding, especially in ground-dwelling forms from moist habitats. However, this smooth microornamentation generates shine that may compromise cryptic coloration, especially when scales are large. Many derived features show correlation with such large scales and appear to suppress shine. They occur most frequently in forms from dry habitats or forms that climb in vegetation away from the ground, situations where dirt adhesion is less of a problem. Microornamentation differences involving other parts of the body and other squamate groups tend to corroborate this functional interpretation. Microornamentation features can develop on lineages in different orders and appear to act additively in reducing shine. In some cases different combinations may be optimal solutions in particular environments, but lineage effects, such as limited reversibility and different developmental proclivities, may also be important in their genesis. The fine pits often found on cell surfaces are unconnected with shine reduction, as they are smaller than the wavelengths of most visible light.
Arnold, E.N. (2004) -
The Lacertidae appear to be most closely related to the worm lizards (Amphisbaenia) and then the Teiodea. Living forms fall into four main units, a basal Gallotiinae, and the Lacertinae, Tykadromus, and Eremiainae. Relationships among these and available fossils suggest lacertids arose in Europe, where they have been present for at least 50Myr and then spread independently to East Asia (Takydromus) and the Afrotropical region (Eremiainae). The ancestors of living species probably had a broad structural niche involving some climbing ability in mesic situations. There were later multiple shifts to ground-dwelliung and specialised climbing on open surfaces and in vegetation matrixes, and to xeric habitats. Gallotiinae includes the west Mediterranean Psammodromus and the Canary Island Gallotia which has produced an adaptive radiation in this archipelago including giant and herbivorous species. The Lacertinae occur mainly in Europe and mesic areas nearby. They appear to have initially spread in the Miocene and speciated rapidly to produce many largely allopatric units that are assigned to Lacerta s. lat. All except L. (Darevskia) of the Caucasus and neighbouring regions have relatively few present species. Three of four units have spread more widely including L. (Lacerta), L. (Timon), Algyroides and Podarcis. These have distinctive ecological features that enable them to coexist with the other forms. Podarcis may have been responsible for the restriction of some small-bodied Lacerta s. lat. And Algyroides to small distributions in specialised habitats. Surviving members of Takydromus probably speciated in the late Miocene. They primitively have many derived morphological and behavioural features functionally associated with climbing in vegetation matrixes but some lineages have become secondarily ground-dwelling. A DNA-based phylogeny shows the group has many anatomical parallelisms and reversals. The Eremiainae are characterised by a distinctive ulnar nerve pattern and hemipenis structure. The group intially spread into mesic habitats in the Afrotropical region. Forms concerned are Omanosaura (E. Arabia), Australolacerta (S. Africa), the Equatorial group (central Africa), Poromera (W. Africa) and Tropidosaura (S. Africa). The Equatrorial African group includes Adolfus, Gastropholis and Holaspis, the latter having many derived features functionally associated with gliding and others that are exaptations to this activity. One clade derived from mesic Eremiainae shifted into xerioc ground niches and developed many adaptations to these. Within this units, Latastia, Phiolochortus, Heliobolus and Pseuderemias may form a clade centred on northeast Africa, while Ichnotropis, its sister Meroles, and Pedioplanis occur in the south of the continent. One large clade invaded Asia giving rise to Eremias, Ophisops, Acanthodactylus and Mesalina, the last three of which later colonised dry areas of North Africa, sometimes on more than one occasion. There are several series of ecomorphs in the Lacertidae, each of which has developed between 2 and 8 times, although sometimes to varying extents. They involve adaptations to dense vegetation on the ground, climbing in vegetation matrixes, forest environments, large size, rocky situations, and Aeolian sand. Lineage history and character lability have both been important in determining how lacertids have adapted. The relatively limited ecological and morphological diversity in the group is likely to have been due to restricted opportunity rather than limited ability to evolve.
Arnold, E.N. & Arribas, O. & Carranza, S. (2007) -
DNA sequence indicates the Lacertidae contain two subfamilies, Gallotiinae and Lacertinae, the latter comprising two monophyletic tribes, the Eremiadini of Africa and arid southwest and central Asia, and the Lacertini of Europe, northwest Africa and southwest and east Asia. Relationships within the 108 species of Lacertini are explored using mtDNA (291 bp cytochrome b; 329 bp 12S rRNA for 59 nominal species, and reanalysis of the data of Harris et al. 1998, and Fu 2000). The morphology of the tribe is reviewed and 64 of its characters (equivalent to 83 binary ones) also used to assess relationships. The Lacertini are assigned to 19 monophyletic units of 1 to 27 species, recognised here as the following genera (contents are indicated in brackets): Algyroides, Anatololacerta gen. nov. (L. danfordi group), Apathya (L. cappadocica group), Archaeolacerta (L. bedriagae), Dalmatolacerta gen. nov. (L. oxycephala), Darevskia (L. saxicola group), Dinarolacerta gen. nov. (L. mosorensis), Hellenolacerta gen. nov. (L. graeca), Iberolacerta (L. monticola group), Iranolacerta gen. nov. (L. brandtii and L. zagrosica), Lacerta s. str. (sand and green lizards, L. agilis group), Parvilacerta gen. nov. (L. parva and L. fraasii), Phoenicolacerta gen. nov. (L. laevis group), Podarcis (wall lizards), Scelarcis (L. perspicillata), Takydromus (Asian grass lizards), Teira (L. dugesii), Timon (ocellated lizards, L. lepida group) and Zootoca (L. vivipara). Both mtDNA and morphology indicate that Lacerta and Timon are sister taxa, and DNA suggests further possible relationships among genera (Fig. 1, p. 6). Neither DNA nor morphology indicates that the archaeolacertas (sometimes formalised as Archaeolacerta sens. lat.) form a clade. Instead, they are representatives of an ecomorph associated with living on rock exposures and using the narrow crevices that these contain. The Lacertidae probably arose in the European area, with the Gallotiinae later reaching Northwest Africa and the Canary Islands, and the ancestor of the Eremiadini invading Africa in the mid-Miocene. The Lacertini spread through much of their present European range and diversified, perhaps largely by repeated vicariance, around 12–16 My ago, producing the ancestors of the present mainly small-bodied genera, which then underwent often modest speciation. Three units spread more widely: the Lacerta-Timon clade of large-bodied lizards probably dispersed earliest, followed by Algyroides and then Podarcis. Overall, European Lacertidae show a pattern of repeated spread, often accompanied by restriction of previous groups. Expansion of Lacertini may have displaced earlier lacertid lineages from all or much of Europe; while spread of Podarcis may have restricted many other genera of Lacertini. The earlier expansion of the Lacerta-Timon clade probably did not have this effect, as difference in adult body size restricted competitive interaction with other forms. Several invasions of more distant areas also occurred: of East Asia by Takydromus over 10 My ago, and more recently of northwest Africa by Podarcis, Scelarcis and Timon, and Madeira by Teira. Relationships within the Eremiadini estimated from both mtDNA, and nDNA differ considerably from those based on morphology. They indicate relatively mesic forms may have diversified widely across Africa and given rise to at least three independent invasions of arid habitats. MtDNA also indicates that Lacerta andreanskyi belongs in the Eremiadini and may occupy a basal position there. It is assigned to a further new genus, Atlantolacerta gen. nov.
Arnold, E.N. & Burton, J.A. & Ovenden, D.E. (1978) -
Arnold, E.N. & Lanza, B. & Poggesi, M. & Corti, C. (1998) -
Arnold, E.N. & Nilson, G. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2006) -
Lacerta zagrosica, which inhabits rock exposures at altitudes of over 2000 m in the Zagros mountains, is described more fully, including skeletal, hemipenial and other internal features. It lacks the distinctive features of Omanosaura and other Eremiiniae, and a phylogenetic analysis of morphological data of the Lacertinae, based on 64 characters (equivalens to 83 binary ones), fails to associate it with any of the other taxa. But 620 bp of mitochondrial DNA (fragments of the cyt b and 12S rRNA genes) place L. zagrosica firmly and convincingly with its geographical neighbours, the ground-dwelling Lacerta brandtii, although it shows a divergence of 10 % from this species. Morphological differences from L. brandtii are considerable and may be largely related to the different functional demands of the habitats of the two species.
Arnold, N. (2004) -
Arntzen, J.W. (2006) -
Background: Aim of the study was to identify the conditions under which spatial-environmental models can be used for the improved understanding of species distributions, under the explicit criterion of model predictive performance. I constructed distribution models for 17 amphibian and 21 reptile species in Portugal from atlas data and 13 selected ecological variables with stepwise logistic regression and a geographic information system. Models constructed for Portugal were extrapolated over Spain and tested against range maps and atlas data. Results: Descriptive model precision ranged from `fair` to `very good` for 12 species showing a range border inside Portugal (`edge species`, kappa (k) 0.35–0.89, average 0.57) and was at best `moderate` for 26 species with a countrywide Portuguese distribution (`non-edge species`, k = 0.03– 0.54, average 0.29). The accuracy of the prediction for Spain was significantly related to the precision of the descriptive model for the group of edge species and not for the countrywide species. In the latter group data were consistently better captured with the single variable searcheffort than by the panel of environmental data. Conclusion: Atlas data in presence-absence format are often inadequate to model the distribution of species if the considered area does not include part of the range border. Conversely, distribution models for edge-species, especially those displaying high precision, may help in the correct identification of parameters underlying the species range and assist with the informed choice of conservation measures.
Arntzen, J.W. & Sá-Sousa, P. (2007) -
We studied morphological and molecular characters in Podarcis bocagei and P. hispanica lizards in the Ria de Arosa archipelago in coastal Galicia, Spain. Contrasting published information about insular distributions indicated that morphological species identification is problematic. Instead, we identified 145 lizards from 13 islands and several mainland populations by a panel of partially diagnostic nuclear protein loci and through the DNA sequencing of a stretch of 297 base pairs (bp) of the mitochondrial cytochrome-b gene. Correspondence between the molecular identifications was complete, with the exception of two lizards that carried P. hispanica mitochondrial DNA in a P. bocagei nuclear background. The combined results indicate past hybridization events and the oversea dispersal of a female lizard over a distance of about 500 m. Fourteen morphometric and 12 meristic characters were measured in 187 lizards from 15 islands and several mainland reference populations. Multivariate analysis revealed significant differences between sexes and between species. Two island populations for which no molecular data were available were identified as belonging to P. bocagei from morphology. Locally, P. bocagei and P. hispanica have an essentially parapatric distribution, with P. bocagei in the northeast and the islands of the inner Ria, and P. hispanica in the southwest and the islands of the outer Ria. Common patterns for island populations are an increase in absolute size, a decrease in three relative head width parameters, and a lower nuclear genetic heterozygosity than on the mainland. No correspondence was observed between morphological and molecular patterns of intra-specific differentiation. Also, linear distance between populations did not help to explain the results. Because the Ria de Arosa is a flooded river valley, the local bathymetry reflects the order in which the islands have become isolated from the mainland since the sea-level rise started c. 14,000 years ago. However, the temporal order of isolation was not associated with the pattern of population differentiation. The island populations of P. hispanica seem to have diverged over multiple genetic and morphological axes, with no obvious relationship to inter-population distance, coastline history, island ecology, or species habitat preferences. The results indicate that genetic drift is the main force driving in population divergence. Oversea dispersal, that is gene-flow, appears insufficient to counter the morphological differentiation between some island populations. Hypothesis on the biogeographical history of P. bocagei and P. hispanica in western Galicia are discussed.
Arrayago, M. & Bea, A. (1997) -
Arrayago, M.J. & Bea, A. & Heulin, B. (1996) -
Ausgehend von der Überlegung, dass in der Natur aufgrund geografischer Isolatione keine Hybridisierung zwischen eierlegenden und lebendgebärenden Formen der Waldeidechse Lacerta vivipara stattfinden kann, haben die Autoren im Labor entsprechende Kreuzungsexperimente surchgeführt( F1, F2 und Rückkreuzungen). Ihnen standen dafür Individuen cer viviparen Form aus der Bretagne und der oviparen Form aus dem spanischen Baskenland bzw. den französischen Pyrenäen zur Verfügung. Sowohl bei den reinen Kreuzungen als auch bei Hybridisierungen traten unbefruchtete Eier bzw. abgestorbene Embryonen auf. Die überlebenden Embryonen entwickelten saich jedoch zu F1-Hybriden, die nach Angaben der Autoren alle als fruchtbar gelten. Eine reproduktive Isolation beider Formen lässt sich anhand daher nicht statistisch überzeuegend festmachen. Dies passt gut zu den Ergebnissen genetischer Studien, die ebenfalls auf eine große Nähe beider Formen hindeuten. Obwohl vermutlich richtig, ist dieser Schluss jedoch etwas gewagt. Uneingeschränkte Fertilität sollte einer Linie erst nach mehreren Generationen und Rückkreuzungen zugesprochen werden. Hybridweibchen der F1-Generation legten jeweils Eier mit nicht vollständig calcifizierter Schale. Die mittlere Schalendicke betrug dabei 21um (zum Vergleich ovipare Form: 40um; vivipare Form: 9um). Das Embryonalstadium, in dem die Eier abgelegt wurden, waren die Stadien 35-36. Dieser Wert liegt zwischewn demjenigen oviparer Weibchen (Stadien 31-34) und dem letzten Embryonalstadium (Stadium 40), bei dem vivipare Weibchen die Eier/Jungtiere absetzen. Entsprechend waren auch die Eizeitigungsdauern bei dem Hybridstamm kürzer als bei der oviparen Form. Der Hybridstamm nimmt damit eine intermediäre Stellung innerhalb des Oviparie-Viviparie-Kontinuums ein und bestätigt eindrucksvoll die Vorhersagen des evolutionären Erklärungsmodells, wonach sich bei Reptilien die Viviparie durch die Reduktion der Dicke der Eischalen und eine längere Verweildauer der Eier im Uterus währne der Embryogenese entwickelt hat.. Die angesprochene, in mehrfacher Beuziehung „mittlere“ Stellung der Hybridtiere deutet darauf hin, dass der Reproduktionsmodus nicht dominant-rezessiv vererbt wird. Allerdings sind – so sehen das die Autoren – noch weitere Untersuchungen und Kreuzungsansätze erforderlich bevor die Mechanismen der Vererbung aufgeklärt sind. Hierzu ist den Autoren die notwendige Geduld und vor allem finanzielle Basis zu wünschen.
Arribas, O. (2000) -
Arribas, O. (2024) -
A total of 230 cleared and alizarin stained and 136 radiographed specimens of Darevskia belonging to 47 nominal taxa (species, subspecies or singular clades) including the seven parthenogenetic ones and a triploid hybrid were studied. Sixteen osteological characters in all the tried species were analyzed. These characters by corporal regions were: skull characters: 1.—number of premaxillary teeth; 2.—number of maxillary teeth; 3.—number of dentary teeth; 4.—teeth morphology; 5.—presence of anterolateral process in the postfrontal bone; 6.—presence of anteromedial process in the postorbital bone; 7.—comparative lengths of the postorbital and postfrontal bones; 8.—overlap degree between the postorbital and the squamosal bones. Postcranial characters: 9.—existence of visible (ossified) ribs associated with the third presacral vertebrae; 10.—sternal/xiphisternal costal formula and presence of inscriptional ribs; 11.—number of presacral vertebrae; 12.—number of posterior dorsal vertebrae (short presacral ribs); 13.—presence and form of the sternal fontanelle; 14.—form of the clavicles (emarginated or marginated); 15.—interclavicle form; 16.—morphology of first autotomic vertebrae of the tail. Our goals were to characterize osteologically the different species of Darevskia, to contrast their relationships traced from osteological traits with the available genetic-derived phylogenies of the group, to compare the osteological characteristics of the parthenogenetic species with their bisexual parental species, and to comment on their parentage and character polarity. Finally, we aimed to search for osteological characteristics of the different groups within Darevskia, diagnosing them for the first time. The results, commented on by characters, are available in the main text, and taxa characteristics are easily consultable and condensed in Table 1. Osteological characteristics of Darevskia, together with available phylogenetic trees, have permitted us to define some new groups within Darevskia (raddei, chlorogaster, defilippi, and parvula new groups) (Appendix 3), which are reciprocally monophyletic and have diagnostic characteristics. All of them are diagnosed and named as subgenera to be used if necessary, instead of the partial, old and not always comprehensive groups.
Arribas, O. & Candan, K. & Kornilios, P. & Ayaz, D. & Kumlutas, Y. & Gül, S. & Yilmaz, C. & Yildirim Caynak, E. & Ilgaz, C. (2022) -
Revealing biodiversity allows the accurate determination of the underlying causes of many biological processes such as speciation and hybridization. These processes contain many complex patterns, especially in areas with high species diversity. As two of the prominent zoogeographic areas, Anatolia and Caucasus are also home to the genus Darevskia, which has a complex morphological structure and parthenogenetic speciation. Darevskia valentini and D. rudis are two largely distributed taxa of this genus, both of which have a controversial taxonomic delimitation. Here we performed both a highly detailed morphological comparison and a molecular evaluation for the populations in both species groups. The most comprehensive taxonomic revision of this complex was carried out to determine the cases where the data obtained were compatible or not with each approach. As a result of the obtained outputs, it seems that D. spitzenbergerae stat. nov., D. mirabilis stat. nov. and D. obscura stat. nov. should be accepted as the species level, this later with subspecies D. o. bischoffi comb. nov. and D. o. macromaculata comb. nov.. Also, we propose two new taxa: D. josefschmidtleri sp. nov. and D. spitzenbergerae wernermayeri ssp. nov.. It has also been shown that “lantzicyreni” subspecies belong to D. rudis instead of D. valentini. The extensive revision has contributed to subsequent studies to more accurately understand the past histories of species in the genus Darevskia.
Arribas, O. & Candan, K. & Kumluta, Y. & Ilgaz, Ç. (2021) -
All the Turkish populations studied, both those previously assigned to D. dryada (Subaşı and Yoldere villages, near Hopa) and those attributed to D. clarkorum (the largest sample studied so far, 177 specimens in total), are indistinguishable from each other and therefore must all be ascribed to the natural variability of a monotypic D. clarkorum. The Georgian specimens from the Type Locality of D. dryada (Charnaly river gorge, Chevachauri district) are clearly different, so that taxon cannot be considered a simple synonym for D. clarkorum, but as a valid taxon, although its proper status (more probably as a subspecies of D. clarkorum), is yet to be clarified. It is a highly threatened population, so studies should be done in vivo or with as low intrusiveness as possible. Darevskia dryada is clearly larger (SVL) than any D. clarkorum studied, with strongly longer heads and pilei in adult males (and hence more teeth in dentary bone), and higher dorsalia counts. There also seem to be (but need to be studied in a larger sample) more longitudinal rows of temporal scales between tympanic and parietal plates, a tendency to have more supralabial scales; comparatively smaller values for longitudinal rows of scales on the ventral surface of the thigh between the femoral pores and the outer row of enlarged scales, and higher collaria, and circumanalia scales. Other differences in femoralia and gularia are also reflected in Darevsky & Tuniyev’s (1997) tables and should also be investigated with more Georgian specimens. Two supposed discriminant characters, the frontonasal index and the presence of developed masseteric, are not valid. The frontonasal index does not discriminate both taxa; D dryada specimens fall inside the variation of D. clarkorum for this character. Also the presence of a developed masseteric plate is supposed to be rare if at all in D. clarkorum but always present in D. dryada; however, it appears in nearly 75% of D. clarkorum studied and in all D. dyada, so is also no longer valid for taxa discrimination. Although very similar, D. clarkorum and D. dryada are morphologically different, and genetic studies (as the unpublished results mentioned by Fu, 1999) do not make the provenance of the specimens clear, and hence the correct identification of the supposed specimens of D. dryada used. There are no geographical clines in D. clarkorum. However, as stated by Schmidtler et al. (2002), there is an inverse relationship between altitude and dorsalia values in D. clarkorum. Both the general differentiation between populations and the scalation (dorsalia) appear statistically correlated with the altitude and also with latitude (being both factors not strictly the same). The correlation seems to be stronger with morphology in general (multiple scalation characters and head biometry) than only with dorsalia. In the case of the general differentiation among samples, it is also significantly correlated with temperatures during the activity period (April-September) and with precipitation during incubation (July-August). As these climatic parameters of temperature and precipitation are not directly correlated with the dorsalia variation, the relation with altitude (and perhaps latitude) must be linked to some other climatic parameter not studied here, perhaps solar radiation or evapotranspiration.
Arribas, O. & Candan, K. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Ilgaz, Ç (2021) -
All the Turkish populations studied, both those previously assigned to D. dryada (Subaşı and Yoldere villages, near Hopa) and those attributed to D. clarkorum (the largest sample studied so far, 177 specimens in total), are indistinguishable from each other and therefore must all be ascribed to the natural variability of a monotypic D. clarkorum. The Georgian specimens from the Type Locality of D. dryada (Charnaly river gorge, Chevachauri district) are clearly different, so that taxon cannot be considered a simple synonym for D. clarkorum, but as a valid taxon, although its proper status (more probably as a subspecies of D. clarkorum), is yet to be clarified. It is a highly threatened population, so studies should be done in vivo or with as low intrusiveness as possible. Darevskia dryada is clearly larger (SVL) than any D. clarkorum studied, with strongly longer heads and pilei in adult males (and hence more teeth in dentary bone), and higher dorsalia counts. There also seem to be (but need to be studied in a larger sample) more longitudinal rows of temporal scales between tympanic and parietal plates, a tendency to have more supralabial scales; comparatively smaller values for longitudinal rows of scales on the ventral surface of the thigh between the femoral pores and the outer row of enlarged scales, and higher collaria, and circumanalia scales. Other differences in femoralia and gularia are also reflected in Darevsky & Tuniyev’s (1997) tables and should also be investigated with more Georgian specimens. Two supposed discriminant characters, the frontonasal index and the presence of developed masseteric, are not valid. The frontonasal index does not discriminate both taxa; D. dryada specimens fall inside the variation of D. clarkorum for this character. Also the presence of a developed masseteric plate is supposed to be rare if at all in D. clarkorum but always present in D. dryada; however, it appears in nearly 75% of D. clarkorum studied and in all D. dyada, so is also no longer valid for taxa discrimination. Although very similar, D. clarkorum and D. dryada are morphologically different, and genetic studies (as the unpublished results mentioned by Fu, 1999) do not make the provenance of the specimens clear, and hence the correct identification of the supposed specimens of D. dryada used. There are no geographical clines in D. clarkorum. However, as stated by Schmidtler et al. (2002), there is an inverse relationship between altitude and dorsalia values in D. clarkorum. Both the general differentiation between populations and the scalation (dorsalia) appear statistically correlated with the altitude and also with latitude (being both factors not strictly the same). The correlation seems to be stronger with morphology in general (multiple scalation characters and head biometry) than only with dorsalia. In the case of the general differentiation among samples, it is also significantly correlated with temperatures during the activity period (April-September) and with precipitation during incubation (July-August). As these climatic parameters of temperature and precipitation are not directly correlated with the dorsalia variation, the relation with altitude (and perhaps latitude) must be linked to some other climatic parameter not studied here, perhaps solar radiation or evapotranspiration.
Arribas, O. & Candan, K. & Kurnaz, M. & Kumlutas, Y. & Caynak, E-Y. & Ilgaz, Ç. (2022) -
In this study, we re-examine the Darevskia parvula group comprehensively using morphology, osteology and mitochondrial phylogeny, and describe a new endemic species from Turkey: Darevskia tuniyevi sp. nov. A total of 257 adult specimens were evaluated for external morphology (scalation and biometry) with univariate (descriptive statistics and ANOVA with post-hoc tests) and multivariate (Discriminant Analysis and ANOSIM) analyses. In parallel, osteological data and molecular analyses using three DNA markers (mitochondrial 16S rRNA and Cyt-b, nuclear Rag-1) were used to complete the description of the new taxon. The molecular phylogenetic analyses indicated that the D. parvula group is composed of three taxa as D. parvula, D. adjarica and D. tuniyevi sp. nov., and showed that D. adjarica and D. tuniyevi sp. nov. are reciprocal sister taxa. On the other hand, D. adjarica is morphologically very different from other two forms, while D. parvula is hardly distinguishable externally from D. tuniyevi sp. nov. Therefore, we can consider that D. parvula and D. tuniyevi sp. nov. are cryptic species. These two cryptic species retain their primitive morphology within the group, while D. adjarica has changed, perhaps due to different bioclimatic conditions in its Pleistocene refuge and current area.
Arribas, O.J. (1991) -
Arribas, O.J. (1993) -
Lacerta monticola bonnali Lantz, 1927, that inhabits central Pyrenees from 1.800 m to ca. 3.000 m a.s.l. in alpine and subalpine environments, should be considered hereinafter as a full species: L. bonnali stat. nov. due to strong differences in pholidosis, design and coloration, as well as ecological (types of rocks among it lives) and biological features (egg incubation time) that distinguish it both from L. monticola Boulenger, 1905 and L. horvathi Mehely, 1904, their closest geographic relatives, as well as from other Archeolacerta from Europe and Near East.
Based on the study of geographic variability (pholidosis and biometry) of the Pyrenean endemite Lac bonnali LANTZ, 1927, a new subspecies of this lizard is described from Vali d`Aràn and Pallars.
Arribas, O.J. (1994) -
We give an historical review of the discovery and knowledge of A. bonnali in the Pyrenees and Catalonia. The up till now known locatities, habitat and specimens morphology are included.
Arribas, O.J. (1995) -
Arribas, O.J. (1996) -
The present morphological study analyzes the geographical variation of `Lacerta` monticola BOULENGER, 1905 and `L..` cyreni MÜLLER & HELLMICH, 1937 by means of univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. `L. ` monticola shows a low degree of morphological interpopulation differentiation (considerable overlap of the ranges of respective character states). Yet, one sample (Serra da Estrella) is separable from the rest of the Cantabric samples. The first corresponds to `L.` m. monticola BOULENGER, 1905, the second to `L.` m. cantabrica MERTENS, 1929. `L. ` cyreni forms several allopatric populations which have reached a considerable degree of divergence. The populations of Gredos seem to be subspecifically distinct from the Guadarrama ones `L. ` c. cyreni MÜLLER & HELLMICH, 1937) and the small endangered Pena de Francia population is strongly different from both.
Arribas, O.J. (1997) -
The geographic limits of the three high mountain pyrenean lizards (Archaeolacerta bonnali, A. aranica and A. aurelioi) are relatively congruent with the biogeographic sectorizations proposed up till now, although don’t fit well with the hierarchy of these subdivisions. The differentiation degree among conspecific populations is significatively correlated with their separation distances. Our sectorization from the Alpine belt developed in basis to the alpine carabofauna is the first model specifically proposed for these biota. It clusters the alpine massifs in four groups: a) Occidental Pyrenees; b) Central Pyrenees (with a central portion s. str., an aranese portion, and a preoriental portion); and c) Eastern Pyrenees.
Arribas, O.J. (1998) -
Iberolacerta bonnali is endemic from the Central Pyrenees, where inhabits from the Arriel Massif in the west, to the Aigüestortes mountains in the east. His range is characterized by the greater size of the mountain massifs which inhabits, and by to present granitic (igneous) rock substrates. By other side, his localities are also characterized by lesser insolations and sun radiations, as corresponds to the pyrenaean parts with greater atlantic influence. I. aranica is endemic from the Mauberme Massif and its spurs. His area appears characterized by greater snow accumulations both in winter and spring. I. aurelioi is endemic from the Montroig, Pica d`Estats and Coma Pedrosa massifs. His area is characterized by the greater insolations and sun radiations, and by the presence of lesser alpine belt surface and absolute heights of the inhabited massifs. Also, he inhabits only paleozoic rocks (mainly cambroordovician quarzites). In respect to other species present in the alpine belt: Lacerta agilis appears in localities characterized by high insolation and sun radiations in respect to other pyrenaean lizards. Zootoca vivipara do not present specific traits as lives in all the pyrenaean range and frequently sympatrically with all the other species here studied. Podarcis muralis appears in the comparatively more outer parts, with greater insolations, from the Pyrenees.
Auf Grundlage allen verfügbaren Materials werden neben einer umfangreiche Diagnose (Biometrie, Pholidose, Osteology, Karyotyp, Allozymdifferenzen, hemipenismorphologie) Angaben zu Verbreitung, Sexualdimorphismus und geographischer Variabilität von ´Lacerta` aurelioi ARRIBAS, 1994 vorgelegt. Pholidotische und metrische Merkmale werden dabei mit uni- und multivariatenn statistischen Methoden untersucht. `Lacerta` aurelioi ist in einem kleinen Bereich der östlichen Zentralpyrenäen endemisch. Die Art bewohnt die spanischen Gebirgsmassive Montroig und Pica d´Estats i. w. S. (inklusive Serrat de Capifonts) sowie NW-Andorra (Gebirgsstöcke Coma Pedrosa und Tristaina), woe sie zwischen 2100 m bis fast 2940 m Höhe gefunden wird. Dort kommt die Eidechse hauptsächlich auf kambrio-ordovizischen quarzitischen Schiefern und Phylliten, aber auch auf schwach metamorphosierten Staurolitschichten und schiefrigem Cordierit und Andalusit vor. Morphologisch zeiegen die untersuchten Populationen nur schwache Unterschiede auf infrasubspezifischem Niveau. Auch lassen sich keine Korrelationen zwischen Differenzierungsgrad und geographischer Lage oder Entfernung der Populationen feststellen: Die Subpopulationen eines gebirgsstockes (verschiedener benachbarter Hänge) sind häufig untereinander stärker verschieden als gegenüber Subpopulationen anderer Gebirgsstöcke, sodaß geographisch weiter voneinander entfernte Populationen einander morphologisch stärker ähneln können als geographisch nahe Populationen. Ein denkbares Szenario der Artbildung, das pleistozene Überleben und die Ausbreitung sowie die gegenwärtige Verbreitung der Art werden diskutiert. Die heutige Verschiedenheit der Populationen wird auf ihre holozäne Isolation zurückgeführt. Die Südhänge des Montroig Massives werden als ein würmzeitliches Refugium angesehen, von dem aus die Art ihr gegenwärtiges Verbreitungsgebiet, in dem die verschiedenen Populationen isoliert wurden, besiedelte.
Die Pyrenäenarten von Archaeolacerta s.l. (A. aranica, A. aurelioi und A. bonnali) unterscheiden sich von den übrigen Arten der Eurasiatischen Radiationslinie (sensu MAYER & BENYR 1994) durch den Besitz knöcherner Rippen im Bereich des dritten Präsakralwirbels. Die drei Pyrenäenarten zeigen in der Morphologie von Postorbitale und Postfrontale jeweils osteologische Verschiedenheiten, die Artniveau erreichen und ihre zweifelsfreie Unterscheidung erlauben. Auch finden sich Unterscheidungsmerkmale im Schultergürtel (Klavikel und Sternalfontanella). Apomorphe Merkmale innerhalb der kaukasischen ´Lacerta` saxicola – Gruppe stellen deutliche Unterschiede sowohl gegenüber den Archaeolacerten Europas (fast immer einzusätzlicher Präsakralwirbel) als auch gegenüber Apathya (ein zusätzlicher Präsakralwirbel und eine verminderte Anzahl von Prämaxillarzähnen) dar. ´L.` chlorogaster unterscheidet sich von den übrigen kaukasischen Formen klar durch die Zahl der Prämaxillarzähne und Form der Interklavikel. Die parthenogenetischen Taxa zeigen deutliche Ähnlichkeiten (Modalwerte der Wirbelzahl, Morphologie des Postorbitale) zu ihrem Elternarten, besonders zur weiblichen Elternart. Aufgrund der osteologischen Befunde wird deutlich, daß die europäischen, vorläufig in der Sammelgattung Archaeolacerta s.l. vereinigten Taxa keine natürliche Einheit darstellen. Die Formen der Pyrenäen und des Kaukasus erscheinen osteologisch deutlich differenziert, während die iberischen, balkanischen und tyrrhenischen Taxa in den untersuchten Strukturen nur synplesiomorphe Merkmalsausprägungen gemeinsam haben, die keine Aussagen über ihre Verwandtschaft ermöglichen.
Arribas, O.J. (1999) -
Archaeolacerta s. l., in the currently utilized sense results to be a polyphyletic taxon, composed of three monophyletic and phylogenetically well differentiated taxa: a)-Archaeolacerta (s. str.) Mertens, 1921, which includes three species: A. bedriagae, A. oxycephala, and A. mosorensis, distributed by the northern part of the Central Mediterranean (Corsica, Sardinia, and west Balcanic Peninsula). His most related genera seem to be Teira (his adelphotaxon in our study), Apathya, and Omanosaura. b)-Iberolacerta gen. nov., with two subgenera: Iberolacerta s. str. and Pyrenesaura subgen. nov. includes six species: I. monticola, I. cyreni, I. bonnali, I. aranica, I. aurelioi, and I. horvathi. They are distributed by the mountains of Western Europe (Iberian Peninsula, Pyrenees, Central and Eastern Alps and the north of the Dinaric Chains). His adelphotaxon are the Caucasian and Near East species of Darevskia gen. nov. c)-The third taxa is Darevskia gen. nov., which includes the species of the `L.` saxicola complex besides `L.` derjugini, `L.` praticola, and `L.` chlorogaster. They are distributed by Eastern Europe, Caucasus, and Near East. Other clear relationships among some taxa of the Eurasian Radiation [= `Eurasische linie` from (Mayer and Benyr, 1994)] have been found: Algyroides seems to be the sister group of the species considered of uncertain phylogenetic relationships belonging to the `L.` danfordi-laevis group and of Podarcis. `L.` brandtii seems to be a very primitive species within the Eurasian Radiation. Omanosaura and Apathya appear as sister taxa. `L.` graeca occupies a very basal position in the sister group of Podarcis and relatives (see above). `L.` andreanskyi is the sister species of the Darevskia nov. and Iberolacerta nov. clade. The assimilation of `L.` andreanskyi to Teira is very problematic. Also the `L.` parva group seems to be related to Timon. Some groups of species like `L.` brandtii, `L.` parva-fraasii and `L.` danfordi-laevis probably merit generic rank, but it is necessary a more deep study before to take a decision.
Die Peña de Francia Gebirgseidechse (´L.` cyreni martinezricai) unterscheidet sich von anderen Formen ihrer Art (Gredos: ´L.` cyreni castiliana, Guadarrama: ´L.` cyreni cyreni) durch die signifikant verminderte Häufigkeit des Auftretens eines Schuppenkontaktes zwischen Rostrale und Internasale. Weiters zeichnen sich Männchen und Weibchen des Peña de Francia Taxons gewöhnlich durch blaue Ozellen in der Schultergegend und braune Rückenfärbung aus, während ´L.` cyreni anderer Populationen keine Ozellen tragen und sehr häufig grünrückig sind. Neben diesen sehr auffälligen (und evolutiv bedeutsamen) Farbmerkmalen finden sich signifikante aber nicht sehr starke Pholidoseunterschiede (Anzahl Rückenschuppen-Längsreihen, Bauchschuppen-Querreihen, Circumanalschilder). Das Vorkommen von ´L.` cyreni martinezricai ist auf die Gipfelregion eines isolerten Berges begrenzt. Die Populationsgröße (~ 50 adulte Individuen) nimmt ständig ab. Schutzmaßnahmen sind dringend erforderlich.
Arribas, O.J. (2000) -
Iberolacerta bonnali (LANTZ, 1927), ein Endemit der axialen Zentralpyrenäen, bewohnt die Gebirgsstöcke Arriel, Balaitous, Vignemale (oder Comachibosa), Panticosa, Monte Perdido, Punta Suelza,Posets, Maladeta, Ballibierna und die Gebirge des Sant Maurici-Aigüestortes Nationalparks (Besiberris, Muntanyó de Llacs, Peguera und Encantats) samt einer kleinen nördlichen Exklave in den Massiven von Neouvielle und Bigorre. Das Artareal umfaßt das Gebiet zwischen den Pässen von Portalé (im Westen) und Bonaigua (im Osten). Die Eidechse lebt in der alpinen Region, gewöhnlich in Höhen oberhalb 2000 m (zwischen 1700 m und 3062 m) und kommt dort in kleinen bis mittelgroßen, gewöhnlich eng begrenzten Populationen auf unterschiedlichem Gestein (Kalk, Schiefer, seltener und weniger dicht auf Gneis und Granit) und häufig in der Nähe von Seen und Bächen vor. Die Stichproben von Posets und Maladeta erscheinen als morphologisch zentral bzw. intermediär. An sie lassen sich die übrigen Stichproben aus verschiedenen Richtungen anschließen. Unter den gut repräsentierten Stichproben scheinen die von Bigorre und Ballibierna denen von Maladeta, Monte Perdido und Posets am nächsten zu stehen. Unter den weniger gut vertretenen Samples nähern sich die von Neouvielle und Arriel an Bigorre an. Punta Suelza Exemplare sind intermediär und nahezu nicht von M. Perdido und Posets Tieren unterscheidbar. Die Stichproben Maladeta, Besibierri, Aigüestortes and Ballibierna sind alle gleichermaßen gegenüber den intermediären Populationen differenziert. Insgesamt entsteht der Eindruck, daß die U-förmige Gebirgsformation von Posets, Maladeta und Ballibierna von einer Gruppe „zentraler Populationen“ bewohnt ist, von denen sich drei Stichproben morphologisch am stärksten abheben: Bigorre im Norden, M. Perdido westlich und Aigüestortes im Osten. Dieses Modell positioniert einen möglichen Refugialstandort der Art im Würm auf die Südhänge jenes U-förmigen Gebirgskomplexes, doch bleibt die Möglichkeit anderer kleiner Refugialräume, etwas im Gebiet von Aigüestortes. Das Szenario der Ausbreitung aus diesen Refugialräumen am Ende der letzten Vereisung wird dargestellt, eine das Gesamtmaterial einbeziehende vollständige Diagnose von I. bonnali wird gegeben.
The study techniques permit us to check, from a morphological point of view, the existence of three well differentiated species in the Pyrenees: Iberolacerta aranica (Arribas, 1993), Iberolacerta aurelioi (Arribas, 1994) and Iberolacerta bonnali (Lantz 1927). ANOVA detects differences which accumulate aiming populations of different species. Characters with greater discriminative power among taxa are dorsalia, gularia, ventralia and the relative diameter of the tympanic scale. In the canonical analysis, first axis separates central-eastern pyrenaean populations (I. aurelioi) in respect to central pyrenaean ones (I. bonnali and I. aranica). Second axis separates central pyrenaean populations living in a small isolate at the northeast to the Garona river (I. aranica) from the western ones living in the main part of the pyrenean range (I. bonnali). I. aurelioi is characterized by high values ol ventral pattern, gularia, dorsalia and ventralia; and Iow values of masseteric and tympanic diameters, (temporal areas covered only by small tiny scales are not uncommon), generalyzed absence of contact among postocular and parietal scales and a lower number of circumanals and femoral pores. This species can be distinguished unequivocally also by his yellow belly, which is absent in the other pyrenaean species. I. aranica is characterized by greater diameters of the masseteric plate, relatively well developed ventral pattern. low values of dorsalia. ventralia, circumanalia and relatively short fore and hindlimbs. Usually shows a very characteristic scale disposition in temporal area, with three great scales (masseteric. tympanic and a great wedge-shaped intermediate scale). I. bonnali has intermediate pholidotic values among I. aurelioi and I. aranica. The three species show a good discrimination degree among them (superior to 75 %). The best discrimination is for I. aurelioi from which specimens rarely are mistaken with the other two species. Between I. aranica and I. bonnali there is a more imprecise discrimination, although ever superior to 75 % and more marked in males. In respect to the intraespecific variability among species from which more than one massif has been studied. I. aurelioi is the one which shows samples with the best discrimination degree among it (correct classification percentages from 71.42 to 91.6 %). In I. bonnali intracspecific discrimination is lower. Only the males from Bigorre reach the 75 % of correct classification, which suggests that this species is relatively uniform.
Arribas, O.J. (2001) -
Iberoalacerta aranica (ARRIBAS, 1993) ist ein Endemit der Zentral-Pyrenäen, der ausschließlich das Maubèrme Massiv und dessen Ausläufer zwischen Val d´Aràn (Spanien) und der Ariège (Frankreich) bewohnt. Vorkommen der Art sind in fünfundzwanzig 1 km x 1 km U.T.M. Rasterfeldern nachgewiesen; das mögliche Verbreitungsgebiet bedeckt maximal 36 derartige Rasterfelder. Die Eidechse bewohnt Schutthalden, Geröllfelder und steiniges Grasland (meist auf paläozoischen Schiefern und Kalken) im alpinen Vegetationsgürtel zwischen 1940 m (1900 m) und 2668 m Seehöhe. Alle untersuchten Populationen mit Ausnahme deren von Orlá scheinen untereinander mehr oder weniger in Kontakt zu stehen. In Abhängigkeit vom bewohnten Gesteinsuntergrund bestehen populationstypische Unterschiede in der Rückengrundfarbe. Tiere von Maubèrme ähneln jenen von Liat sehr; beide stehen den Serra d´Armeros Populationen (Barrados und Pica Palomera) nahe. Im allgemeinen dominieren in letzteren Populationen dunkle Farbtöne, während bei Exemplaren von Maubèrme und Liuat intermediäre oder hellere Grundfarben vorherrschen. Estany de Güerri ist ein Vorkommen am äußersten Ende der Serra d´Armeros, und das einzige von dort untersuchte Exemplar scheint morphologisch den Tieren von Armenos nahezustehen. Nur die Exemplare von Orlà unterscheiden sich deutlich von allen übrigen. Sie besitzen eine hellere Rückengrundfarbe mit deutlicher dunkler Färbung. Pholidotisch unterscheiden sie sich von den übrigen Populationen an der Körperunterseite (vor allem ihre größeren Gularia und Ventralia) sowie durch kleinere Masseterica und Analia; auch haben sie relativ längere Hinterbeine. Die Unterschiede in den Extremitätenproportionen könnten im Zusammenhang mit der gut ausgebildeten Kletterfähigkeit und dem bewohnten Gesteinstyp gesehen werden. Die Populationen von Orlà sind entweder tatsächlich isoliert oder sie stehen mit Maubèrme Tieren über einen sehr schmalen Korridor in Verbindung.
A survey on the geogtraphical variation of scalation in the Sand lizard was done by means of both univariate (ANOVA) and multivariate (Canonical discriminant Analysis and cluster of the Mahalanobis distances among centroids). Our results show the existence of two clearly separated groups, in concordance with previous authors. Lacerta agilis garzoni is enough differentiated to by considered a valid subspecies. Lacerta agilis argus is a mere synonym of Lacerta agilis agilis. Lacerta agilis chersonensis despite their overall similarity in pattern and coloration to the so-called Balcanic group belongs to the Caucasic one. Data on the currently known habitat and chorology of Lacerta agilis garzoni are given.
Arribas, O.J. (2002) -
Arribas, O.J. (2004) -
Iberolacerta aurelioi (ARRIBAS, 1994) ist eine in ihrem Bestand gefährdete Eidechsenart mit einer sehr kleinräumigen Verbreitung. Wesentliche Merkmale ihrer Fortpflanzungsbiologie wie etwa die hohe Lebenserwartung (von bis zu 17 Jahren, die verzögerte Geschlechtsreife (nicht vor dem 5. Kalenderjahr bzw. 4 Überwinterungen) und sehr geringe Vermehrungsrate (ein Gelege aus 2 oder 3 Eiern pro Jahr) stehen im Zusammenhang mit der kurzen Jahresaktivitätsdauer in großen Höhen. Das Datum des Erscheinens nach der Winterruhe hing von den tatsächlichen Wetterverhältnissen im jeweiligen Jahr ab und war dann für alle Altersstufen und beide Geschlechter dasselbe. Die Paarung begann bald nach dem Verlassen der Winterquartiere (zweite Maihälfte bis erste Junihälfte). Für die Paarungsstellung war der Flankenbiß des Männchens charakteristisch. Die Eientwicklung erfolgte im Verlauf des Juni und die Eiablage fand zwischen Mitte Juni und Mitte Juli statt. Es erfolgte nur eine Eiablage pro Jahr, wobei (1) 2 oder 3 Eier gelegt wurden, welche Embryonen in fortgeschrittenen Reifestadien (Stadium 30 bis 32 nach DUFAURE et al. 1961) Bevorzugt wurden Ablageorte unter mittelgroßen bis großen flachen Steinen in leicht geneigtem Gelände. Unter solchen Steinen fanden sich zwei bis 12 frisch abglegte Eier, die von mehreren (im Durchschnitt zwei) Weibchen gemeinsam am selben Platz abgelegt worden sein mussten. Allerdings wurde solche Ablageorte häufig von Jahr zu Jahr gewechselt, sodaß nur wenige von ihnen in aufeinanderfolgenden Jahren benutzt waren. Die Veränderungen in den Abmessungen der Eier während der Inkubation werden beschrieben. Die Eizeitigung dauerte im Labor zwischen 31 bis 44 (im Mittel 35) Tage. Im Freiland traten die ersten Schlüpflinge zwischen Mitte August und Mitte September auf. Im Freiland zerstörte Fraß durch die Larve der Fliege Sarcophaga protuberans 25 % der Gelege. 64 % der im Labor erbrüteten Eier schlüpften. Der Schlupfvorgang und das frisch geschlüpfte Jungtier werden beschrieben.
Arribas, O.J. (2005) -
Arribas, O.J. (2006) -
Arribas, O.J. (2007) -
Arribas, O.J. (2008) -
Arribas, O.J. (2009) -
Iberolacerta bonnali (LANTZ, 1927 war von 07.00 bis etwa 16.00 Uhr GMT aktiv (gewöhnlich zwischen 09.00 und 11.00 Uhr), unabhängig von Geschlecht oder Alter. Die Orographie und das jeweils herrschende Wetter schränkten die nachmittägliche Aktivität der Eidechse ein. Im Laufe des Sommers und mit abnehmender Tageslänge verschob sich der Aktivitätsgipfel zunehmend in Richtung späterer Tagesstunden. In Kalksteingebieten begann und endete die Tagesaktivität früher als in Schiefergebieten, doch unterstützte in letzteren das tigmothermische Verhalten der Eidechsen wahrscheinlich den Prozeß des Aufwärmens. Die Hangneigung war nicht mit der Nutzungshäufigkeit durch I. bonnali korreliert. Die häufigsten und meist genutzten Mikrohabitate waren felsige oder grasbestandene Stellen. Die Eidechsen glichen Abweichungen von der mittleren Häufigkeit dieser Strukturen in allen drei Substrattypen (Kalk, Schiefer, Grandiorit/Granit) durch Bevorzugung oder Vermeidung der verfügbaren Mikrohabitate aus. In Schiefergebieten war Fels weniger häufig und wurde positiv selektioniert, während lose Gesteinbrocken relativ häufig waren und weniger angenommen wurden. Im Kalkgestein fehlte die Buschvegetation und die häufigsten Mikrohabitate, Fels und Gras, wurden etwas weniger angenommen, während umherliegende Steine selten auftraten und vermehrt als Aufenthaltsort gewählt wurden. Auf Grandiorit/Granit-Substrat wurden Grasstandorte weniger angenommen als Fels und loses Gestein. Die Körpertemperaturen aktiver Eidechsen reichten von 20.8°C bis 35.2°C (Mittel 28.96°C ± 0.24°C) und waren etwas stärker mit der Substrattemperatur (r = 0.37) als mit der Temperatur der Umgebungsluft korreliert (r = 0.33). Signifikante Unterschiede zwischen den Geschlechtern oder Altersgruppen oder im Hinblick auf unterschiedliche Substrattypen waren nicht feststellbar. Iberolacerta bonnali waren effektive Thermoregulatoren (die Anstiege der Regressionsgeraden von 0.14 bzw. 0.21 der Körpertemperatur in bezug zu Substrat- bzw. Lufttempetratur waren stark von I verschieden), aber nicht sehr präzise bei der Einstellung ihrer Körpertemperaturen (geringe Korrelationen) und damit eher Thermokonformisten (in einem breiten Temperaturspektrum aktiv), wie auch andere Iberolacerta-Arten.
Die geographische Variabilität Ibero-Pyrenäischer Zootoca vivipara (JACQUIN, 1787) wird untersucht. Multivariate Analysen weisen auf eine Differenzierung zentral- und west-kantabrischer Stichproben, hauptsächlich aufgrund der besonderen Pileuskonfiguration, besonders der Männchen, währen die Weibchen beträchtliche morphologische Überschneidungen mit Weibchen anderer Gebiete zeigen. Univariate Statistiken gruppieren Exemplare aus Kantabrien und dem Baskenland (s. lat.) näher beieinander, während die der Pyrenäen sich von diesen etwas abheben, ein Muster, das recht gut mit den Ergebnissen genetischer Studien übereinstimmt. Die oviparen kantabro-pyrenäischen Populationen werden als neue Unterart beschrieben. Zootoca vivipara louislantzi ssp. nov..Sie unterscheiden sich von anderen Unterarten in mehrerer Hinsicht und sind durch folgende Merkmalskombination gekennzeichnet: morphologisch (verminderte Anzahl von Collaria und Supralabialia, vermehrte Zahl von Subdigitallamellen der 4. Zehe, Fehlen eines diskontinuierlichen breiten, weiß gerandeten Rückenstreifens und bei Weibchen jeglicher gelber Pigmentierung auf der Bauchseite), osteologisch (Tendenz zur Reduktion der Präsakralwirbel), karyologisch (W-sex Chromosom einarmig) und genetisch (Nei’s genetische Distanz von 0.102 und die diagnostischen Allele ATA-150 und ATA-200 sowie 1,3(±0,5 Standardabweichung) % Sequenzdifferenz on der 16S rRNA und 1.9 % Spannweite: 1-2.6 %) im Cytochrom b). Die biometrischen und meristischen Merkmale werden für die neue Unterart insgesamt und getrennt nach den Hauptverbreitungsgebieten angegeben.
Arribas, O.J. (2010) -
Canonical Discriminant (CDA), ANOVA and ANOSIM analyses were calculated for all recen tly known distribution areas of Iberolacerta cyreni including severtal small and unstudied peripheral populations. The monly differentiated sample is Guadarrama (the nominate subspecies), with very limited overlap in the CDA (correct classification > 70%) and different from nearly all the other samples in ANOSIM. Guadarrama is a recently differentiated but well diagnosable (morpho) subspecies (with lower values of dorsalia, ventralia and greater values of circumanalia). Despite the mtDNA differences of the Béjar specimens, their morphology is largely equivalent to that of I. Cyreni castiliana (Gredos), but clearly differ in their female body elongation (near 1 cm) with shorter limnbs, a possible strategy to increase clutch size. Populations from the Sierras de Avila (Villafranca, Serrota and Paramera) are very similar among them. Villafranca (in males) together with Béjar (in females) are the most connected samples in MST, and the root of the species differentiation from a morphological point of view, once discarded geographical and climatic influence on morphology. All populations except Guadarrama shall be considered as I. c. castiliana by their morphological identity with gredos. These morphological similarities probably are the reflect of extensive gene flow among them, responsible of maintaining their morphology largely euqivalent.
Der Autor legt eine vergleichende Untersuchung über Aktivität, Mikrohabitatwahl (Hangneigung, Flächenanteil von Fels, Steinen, nacktem Boden, Gebüsch und krautiger Vegetation im Lebensraum) und temperaturabhängiges Verhalten von Iberolacerta aranica (ARRIBAS, 1993), I. aurelioi (ARRIBAS; 1994) und I. bonnali (LANTZ, 1927) vor und beschreibt die Unterschiede in den untersuchten Größen im Hinblick auf Art, Geschlecht und Alter der Eidechsen. Im Aktivitätsmuster finden sich keine Unterschiede zwischen den Arten, doch differierten sie in mehreren Faktoren der Habitatausstattung ihres Aufenthaltsortes signifikant. Iberolacerta aurelioi wurde in steilerem Gelände als I. bonnali besonders aber als I. aranica festgestellt, doch waren die Unterschiede in der Hangneigung nich signifikant. Iberolacerta aurelioi und I. bonnali bevorzugten felsige Substrate und vermieden steinige Stellen (beide Geschlechter, alle Altersklassen) und nackte Böden (nur I. aurelioi). Iberolacerta aranica bevorzugte weniger felsigen als eher steinigen un d unbewachsenen Bodengrund. Büsche waren im Habitat von I. bonnali häufiger als in jenem von I. aurelioi und I. aranica. Krautige Pflanzen (Ganz allgemein alle Formen von Vegetation) fanden sich häufiger im Lebensraum von I. bonnali als an Stellen, wo I. aurelioi oder I. aranica vorkamen. Die drei Arten unterschieden sich voneinander in der Körpertemperatur (BT) und erwiesen sich als gute aber nicht sehr präzise Thermoregulatoren (besonders gegenüber den Subastrattemperaturen) sowie mäßige Thermokonformisten. Die Körpertemperatur war bei Iberolacerta aurelioi niedriger als bei I. bonnali (p < 0.05) und besonders I. aranica (p < 0.01). Die mittlere Körpertemperatur betrug bei I. bonnali 29.20 ± 0.30°C (22.8 – 35.2°C; n = 64), bei I. aranica 29.49 ± 0.20°C (22 – 36.5°C; n = 143) und bei I. aurelioi 28.13 ± 0.32°C (16.6 – 34.4°C; n = 109). Die Erwärmung schien bei I. aurelioi und I. bonnali hauptsächlich heliothermisch, bei I. aranica tigmothermisch zu erfolgen.
Arribas, O.J. (2011) -
Arribas, O.J. (2012) -
The hemipenial microornamentation of Algyroides marchi VAlVERDE, 1958 is described. It consists of crown-shaped tubercles, as in A. fitzingeri, but different from the spiniform tubercles of the Balkan species A. moreoticus and A. nigropunctatus. Possible phylogenies and intrageneric relationships are discussed.
The most ancient report of Lacerta agilis in Pyrenees is given. The reference to its presence in Montlouis corresponds to the book about the nature of the Pyrenees written by Eugen Trutat in 1894, twenty two years before Boulenger (1916) publication, considered to be the oldest (both slope from Ariege and la Cerdanya: data from Ax-les-Thermes and Porté).
In this paper we deal on the ultraviolet color (invisible to us): where we can find it, the capability of animals to see it and the advantages that this color perception offers to them. As the simplest way to detect it is the photography, we describe and review how to photograph the UV, as a result of 15 years of amateur experience, searching and testing nearly in complete blindness due to the lack of practical information about “how to do it”. We describe the different kinds of photography (chemical and digital); the cameras and objectives suitable (both astronomically expensive ones and cheap options); what are the best characteristics that the objectives should have for this purpose; the films suitable for their use in chemical photography; the different filters (current or discontinued) manufactured along the years; and the subtle combinations among the different materials to obtain pure UV photographs. This kind of scientific photography is mainly used in forensics, forgery detection, art dermatology and less in Natural History, despite the fact that a great part of animals see this color and use it in important questions of their biology as the social behavior, mate choice or the food search.
Arribas, O.J. (2013) -
Zur Naturgeschichte von Iberolacerta martinezricai (ARRIBAS, 1996), der seltensten Reptilienart Kointinentaleuropas, liegen nur wenige Angaben vor. Das zahlenmäßige Geschlechterverhältnis betrag nach Informationen aus der Datenbank des Autors 0,74:1 (Männchen: Weibchen), während im deutlich größeren datensatz der feldbeobachtungen (dieser schließt allerdings Beobachtungswiederholungen ein) die Männchen überwogen (1,27:1). Alla Altersgruppen und Geschlechter zeigten ähnliche, die Morgenstunden betonende Tagsaktivitätszyklen. Nachmittagsaktivität erfolgte gehäuft an schattingen Orten, wobei Sonnenexposition bei hohen Lufttemperaturen vermiden wurde. Zwei Häutungsperioden (eine im April, eine um Ende Jun und Juli) wrden beobachtet. Der Lebensraum war mäßig neiegtes, ausnahmslos von Felstrümmern und großen Blöcken, mit reichlich Moos- und Flechtenbewuchs dominiertes Gelände, was auf erhöhte Feuchte und geologische Hang-Stabilität hinwies. Besondere Vorlieben fürf einzelne Mikrohabitate waren nicht feststellbar. Die Körpertemperatur aktiver Individuen war die höchste innerhalb der Gattung Iberolacerta: 33.31±0.12°C (Spannweite 22.8-39.2°C) ohne signifikanten Geschlechtsunterschied. Im Mittel hatten blaufärbige Männchen eine höhere Körpertemperatur als grüne (33.73±0.19°C gegenüber 32.8±0.28°C). Die Aufenthaltsorte adulter Weibchen wiesen eine höhere Lufttemperatur auf (23.77±0.20°C, Spannweite 13.8-37.1°C) als die der Jungtiere. Dioe Substrattemperaturen (30.08±0.31°C, Spannweite 16.5-52.1°C) waren an den Aufenthaltsorten derWeibchen höhetr als an dene der Männchen. Iberolacerta martinezricai war mäßig thermokonformistisch (Spannweite der Aktivitätstemperatur: 16.4°C) und ein effektiver und ziemlich präziser Thermoregulator was die Substrattemperatur betrifft(r = 0.36, Anstieg 0.14), aber zeigte kein thermoregulatorisches Verhalten hinsichtlich der Lufttemperatur (r = 0.15, Anstieg = 0.09). Tigmothermie, Aktivität im Schatten bei hoher Lufttemperatur und Aestivation werden diskutiert-
Arribas, O.J. (2014) -
Sex dimorphism: Males and females of Iberolacerta martinezricai differ at p < 0.001 in Ventralia (MF), Forelimbs length (M>F), Hindlimb length (M>F), Pileus length (M>F) and at p<0.05 in Collaria (M>F) and Dorsalia (M>F). Batuecan lizards are overall less di-morphic than the three species of Pyrenean rock lizards. Morphological variability: Variability Index calculated (ΣCV) for I. martinezricai was 6.8 in males and 6.0 in females. Results are very similar (although slightly smaller) to the obtained in the Pyrenean Iberolacerta spp. From two chosen characters, variation coefficient in Gularia falls also between the normal values for the bisexual species and it is a bit greater than in parthenogenetic species; or it is clearly greater as in Dorsalia. Nothing suggests a drastic reduction of the variability in the Batuecan lizard but some characters recall for a relatively small morphologic variability in some characters, in parallel with the lack of mitochondrial variability, perhaps due to its reduced effectives. Allometry: Both in males and females, the most representative character of growth is the body length (SVL). Most other characters match very closely to this SVL with very similar coefficients: limbs, Parietal, Pileus length and the Anal plate width. Masseteric, Tympanic and Anal length also grow, but not in parallel with SVL. Anal length grows considerably and independently of body size. In the case of fe-males, body limbs have a negative allometry respect to female’s body length and Masseteric, and especially Tympanic plates have a negative allometry respect to the total growth. Parallel variation in escalation: In males the most related characters of escalation are the two rows of Femoralia, and two characters that have contrary signs: Supraciliar Granula (but not very marked, as coefficients are very small) and specially Circumanalia (that varies with total independence). Also there is a small relationship of Supraciliar Granula with Gularia and even more distant with 4th-toe Lamellae and Circumanalia. In females on one side (first axis), both Supraciliar Granula rows are related to Femoral pores, 4th toe Lamellae, Ventralia and Femoralia; and on the other side (second axis) both sided Femoralia are lonely related with Dorsalia, Collaria and Gularia, and just inversely related to Supraciliar Granula. Sexual maturation is probably reached when lizards are three years old (in his 4CY). Our smallest gravid female was 56.7 mm, and was probably reproducing in the spring of their 5 CY (when 4 years old). Al-though it is possible that some specimens (especially males, but also some females) reach maturity during 3CY, as it occurs in I. monticola. Growth rate (K) in the first years is 0.145696 ± 0.0633135 (95% confidence). Calculated length at infinite (maximum size if the same rate or growth curve was ap-plied throughout the lifetime of the animal) would be: L∞ = 70.036 ± 13.7598 (95%). This estimate of the asymptotic size (70.036 mm) is very close to the true maximum size found in the total sample of adults (69.31 mm). Growth decreases progressively and the resulting curve is fairly straight, being the growth not far from linear and very similar in both sexes. Longevity: The biggest male (SVL 68.15 mm) and the biggest female conserved (SVL 68.86 mm) had 7 growth rings (two big and five narrow) in the femur. The two wide rings correspond to the two first years of rapid growth (2CY and 3CY), but when lizards reach sex maturation growth decreases, being latter rings very narrow and even difficult to count. Both specimens had presumably 8 years old (they are 9CY animals: the birth year and 7 growths seasons, and captured just in the beginning of their 9 CY). Tail autotomy: Iberolacerta martinezricai hatchlings are able to break their tails from birth. Observed hatchlings (1CY) in nature had intact tails. In 2CY, 3CY and 4CY already appear broken and regenerated tails in some specimens. In adults, there are less than a quarter of specimens with apparently unbroken tails, and the others fall in the different categories of regenerated ones (tail tip, middle of the tail or the whole tail from basis) in proportions similar to one quarter. There are no differences between both sexes in the different categories of broken tails, but there are significant differences between juveniles and adults. Females have a slightly big percentage of broken tails from its basis. Bright colored tail in juveniles (bluish in I. martinezricai), is lost during their 2CY. It seems to be an antipredatory strategy. Hatchlings of the Batuecan lizard are able to attract attention on its tail by a striking whirl of its distal part, unlike adults that are unable with their stiffer tail (which can move only in very limited cases of danger or excitement).
Partial albinism and melanism cases in Iberolacerta Arribas, 1997 are reviewed, adding some new cases and photographs from other yet published.
Some remarkable altitudes of Lacerta bilineata (at 1740 and 1745 m) and Hierophis viridiflavus (at 2265 m) in the Catalan Pyrenees, and Timon lepidus (up to 1901 m) in Teleno Massif (Montes de León) are here presented.
We have studied copulation time in Iberolacerta (Pyrenesaura) by identifying scars of recent inter-course (up to one week old) in 174 adult females. The vast majority of copulations are just in spring and only a few in late summer. We have verified the presence of late summer copulations in I. aranica and I. aurelioi (already known for I. bonnali). Not really autumn copulations are known. The period of greatest number of copulations is very similar among the three species. Iberolacerta bonnali is the one with the earliest copulation timespan, followed by I. aurelioi and finally I. aranica with a clear and sig-nificant delay differences from the other two. In I. bonnali although there may be some early inter-courses (end of May in specific locations and depending on the year conditions) copulations occur es-pecially during June (78 % of the newly mated females), being the second week the highest point, and some appear until early July. In I. aurelioi is similar, with numerous copulations throughout June (85 %) and first week of July (76 %). We have detected at least one mating to end of July, and reappearing again in low proportion towards the end of summer (26 %, in one of every four females). In I. aranica, who lives in the area of greatest snowfall, the cycle is delayed and copulations begin significantly later than in the other two species, in mid-June (41 % of the studied females) and end by mid-July (48 %), also significantly later than in the other two species. Also we have been detected a copulation in August (4% of the sample) and two recent copulations in late summer (13%). The testicular cycle in mid-September shows very large testicles but not already formed sperm. The large testes size suggests hormone production that could be responsible of the late-summer copulations outside the normal breeding season.
Tail regeneration in 706 Iberolacerta (Pyrenesaura): 300 I. bonnali, 212 I. aranica and 194 I. aurelioi was studied, distinguishing four situations: 0) intact tail; 1) distal part (point) of the tail regenerated; 2) Tail regenerated from its half part and 3) tail broken and regenerated from its basis. The incidence of autotomy (tail break) in Iberolacerta (Pyrenesaura) runs in adults from a 47.5% up to a 68.3%. In juveniles is sensibly lower and goes from 10.9% to 23.8%.In I. bonnali percentage of autotomized tails is almost identical in both sexes (48% in males and 47.5% in females), whereas in juveniles is only 22.4%, without differences between adults but yes between adults and juveniles. In I. aranica, percentage of autotomized tails is 68.3% in males (fairly high), a 55.3% in females and a 10.9% in immatures. There are not significant differences between males and females (despite to be near to significance) but exist between adults and juveniles. In I. aurelioi males have a break percentage of 54.4%, females 59.8% and juveniles 23.8%, without differences between males and females, and contrary to the other two Pyrenean species, also inexistent between adults and juveniles. Comparing the three species among them, only males differ (the difference arises between I. bonnali and I. aranica), and all the other comparisons among females and juveniles are not significant. Juveniles of I. aurelioi (only any population of I. aranica or rarely and few vivid in I. bonnali) present bluish of greenish tails that do not broke until some days after birth and are able to wave sinuously in order to attract the predators attention upon it. Also, the known and possible predators are reviewed.
It is described the finding of a death Lacerta bilineata and its circumstances, apparently by accidental cause when it was trapped in a small-mammal burrow.
Arribas, O.J. (2016) -
Caucasilacerta Harris, Arnold et Thomas, 1998 has been considered as a nomen nudum for the last 18 years. The main reason for this was the lack of a diagnosis or reference to it. Now, some authors argue that a paragraph in the same paper could be a valid diagnosis and thus Caucasilacerta might be an available valid name. In the present manuscript I demonstrate that Caucasilacerta is a nomen nudum by: a) the lack of diagnosis or reference to it accompanying (sic! mandatory in the ICZN) to the new name; b) the alleged diagnosis (fide Busack et al., 2016) is 102 lines away (two pages, including a figure and its legend) and there is not a reference to it accompanying the new name; and c) the subject of the alleged diagnosis are “the Rock-dwelling lacertids in the Caucasus” (sic.!), different from the group to which the new name supposedly refers to, the “L. saxicola group” (sic!). A relationship between both names that can only be ascertained by a specialist in the group and the concerned geographic area. As a result of that, Caucasilacerta is a nomen nudum, unavailable, and thus it is not even a Junior Synonym of Darevskia Arribas, 1997.
Arribas, O.J. (2017) -
It is presented two instances of Lacertid nomenclature in which changes in the species names in func-tion of grammatical gender or number of the honored persons have been suggested. However Interna-tional Code of Zoological Nomenclature only rules to concord in gender the species name with the genus one. Whatever other change, reasonable or not, is an unjustified emendation, as nomenclatural priority is mandatory over grammatical correctness. Similar cases on reptile and amphibian nomenclature are also commented.
The hemipenis of all the Iberolacerta species is studied. Overall morphology is very similar among the different species. Hemipenes are symmetrically bilobed, with the apical section shorter than the basal one (I. galani, I. cyreni, I. monticola monticola, I. horvathi, I. bonnali, I. aranica and I. aurelioi) or subequal or with slightly inverted proportions (I. m. astur and I. martinezricai). All are similarly sized and proportional to the animal’s SVL, except in I. aurelioi (and perhaps to a lesser extent in I. horvathi) that have notably small hemipenes. Concerning the hemipenial microornamentation, all the Iberolacerta s. str. (I. monticola, I. galani, I. martinezricai, I. cyreni and I. horvathi) have hemipenial microornamen-tation of crown-shaped tubercles, more or less elongated with a series or a crown of small spinules in their apex. Among these, isolate odd shaped tubercles can appear, probably corresponding to immature states that do not reach their complete development. The Pyrenean species (subgenus Pyrenesaura) are variable. Iberolacerta bonnali and I. aranica have mainly spiny-like tubercles (among which some crown shaped can appear), whereas I. aurelioi presents crown-shaped microornamentation (with scattered spiny-like, as occur in other Iberolacerta species). Our hypothesis is that crown shaped models are derived (or more mature, following an ontogenetic criterion) in respect to the spiniform ones, but some spiny (or finger-shaped) can be secondary reversals by incomplete maturation. These secondary derived and the original primitive spiny-shaped ones are very difficult if not impossible to distinguish. Phenomena as the heterochronies could be beneath these reversals in maturation.
Arribas, O.J. (2018) -
Der Autor untersuchte das Fortpflanzungsgeschehen von Iberolacerta martinezricai (ARRIBAS, 1996). Kopulationen begannen Ende April. Im Juli trugen alle Weibchen zahlreiche frische Paarungsnarben auf Bauch und Schwanzbasis. Iberolacerta martinezricai ist monoestrisch. Die Eiablage erfolge im Juli und Anfang August, am häufigsten gegen Ende Juli. Das Eiablageverhalten wird beschrieben. Eier wurden zwischen 9:00 und 15.30 Uhr (GMT) gelegt, wobei der ganze Ablagevorgang 33-42 Minuten (Durchschnitt: 36:57 Minuten) dauerte. Die Kopf-Rumpf-Länge reproduktiver Weibchen betrug 56.7 – 69.71 mm. Die Gelege umfaßten zwei bis sechs Eier (Median und Modalwert: 4, Mittel: 4,23). Die abgelegten Eier klebten nicht aneinander. Biometrische Daten von 49 Eiern (darunter 12 Laboraufzuchten) werden angegeben. Während des Großteils der Inkubationsphase nahmen Eivolumen und Eimasse durch Wasseraufnahme kontinuierlich zu. Zu Begin der Inkubation erfolgte ein rascher Anstieg des Ei-Querdurchmessers (dieser wurde während der Ablage durch die Enge des Geburtskanals verringert). Die Inkubation dauerte 33-42Tage (im Mittel 37.75 Tage). Das Schlüpfen erfolgte zwischen 3:00 und 22:00 Uhr (GMT) (im Mittel 9.40 Uhr) und dauerte 4.10 – 12 Stunden (im Mittel 6.9 Stunden). Die Merkmale des Schlüpflings werden beschrieben. Der Eizahn bestand für acht bis 36 Stunden (im Mittel 23.6 Stunden nach Schlupfbeginn. Schlüpflinge können von Geburt an mit ihrem leuchtend blauen Schwanz wedeln und diesen autotomieren. Diese auffällige Schwanzfärbung verschwand im Laufe des zweiten Kalender-Lebensjahres.
Arribas, O.J. (2019) -
The name “lacerta Schreibersiana var B Lutea Gachet, 1832” forgotten during near two centuries, could endanger the name of Zootoca vivipara louislantzi Arribas, 2009, described 10 years ago. In the present article, we argue that there are several reasons to rule out “lutea” as a valid name. On the one hand, there is a remarkable contradiction that could make one doubt about the species concerned (the tricuspid teeth, never are present in Z. vivipara). Even if being Z. vivipara, there is an uncertainty also regarding the subspecies concerned (the Garona river is the theoretical limit that separates both oviparous and viviparous forms, and although oviparous is closer, none lives today in the vicinity of Bordeaux). That`s why “Lutea”should be a nomen dubium. In addition, and in words of its own author, it was erected as a variety of color in some individuals, so it is an infrasubspecific name. For all these reasons, and in case any of these aspects could still be further discussed, we propose here the reversal of precedence, since the name `Lutea` has never been used as valid in the last 187 years, and the name louislantzi has more than 10 years and has been used as valid in at least 37 works and by 70 different authors (see Appendix 1; the minimum required by the ICZN is 10 years, 25 works and 10 authors). For this reason it is declared louislantzi as nomen protectum and “Lutea” nomen oblitum.
The microornamentation of the scales (oberhautchen) has been studied by means of enamel casts (in negative), or with detached skin pieces (positive cast in the upper face or negative in their lower face of the scales) and its observation by transparency with optical microscopy at 40x, 400x and 1000x. In this study we have found a remarkable uniformity in all genera of Lacertini studied (already known, although significantly expanding the number of species previously studied). In light of the results obtained, it seems that the use of the microornamentation of the scales in taxonomy is limited. There is a remarkable degree of variation and probably of homoplasy, as it happens in so many characters of Lacertini. Nor is it clearly linked to certain conditions of the environment, although it may have a certain importance in mechanisms such as evapotranspiration and perhaps in the crypsis through its influence on the reflectance of the scales. These scales can present protuberances (like small tubercles) on their surface (derived character) in Algyroides (the four species), and in the case of Algyroides marchi also seems to present small pits on its scale surface. In most lacertids the cells of the “oberhautchen” are usually narrow (or short anteroposteriorly, if preferred), between 1 and 4 μm, having the appearance of ribbons or transverse straps. Smaller sizes (derivated) appear more or less marked in Algyroides spp, Darevskia praticola complex, Parvilacerta spp and in Dinarolacerta mosorensis (although not in D. montenegrina) and is difficult to interpret. Except in Dinarolacerta, in the other species it coincides that they are ground or ground-rock interface species, and the coarser stripes could have to do with reflectance (imitating the vegetation or the medium between which they move, according to the hypothesis of Allam et al.). In the case of Dinarolacerta, very saxicolous, it is probably the sister group of Algyroides and the common morphology could have a phylogenetic origin linked to its relationship with Algyroides. There is also no relationship with moisture since some come from dry places and others are from very wet areas. The posterior flange of the cells may be slightly mounted in the next cell (primitive character) but appears quite raised (derived character) in Algyroides nigropunctatus (much less in A. moreoticus and A. marchi, and apparently little or nothing in A. fitzingeri). The rear flange of the cells can be smooth, corrugated or notched. In our samples, irregular (and even dentate) posterior ridges appear in numerous Darevskia such as D. derjugini, D. parvula, D. raddei complex [D. raddei raddei, D. r. vanensis and D. nairensis], in part of the group of D. rudis [D. rudis sspp. and D. bithynica sspp.], several Iberolacerta (I. bonnali, I. horvathi and I. monticola astur), as well as in Teira dugesii. The character appears, although less marked in Algyroides (more in A. moreoticus, but less marked or barely visible in the others), in Hellenolacerta graeca, and other Iberolacerta (I. aurelioi, I. martinezricai, and scarcely marked in I. cyreni). Very little marked in Darevskia mixta, somewhat more in D. dryada and none in D. clarkorum, and also appears in the group of D. saxicola (D. saxicola, D. brauneri brauneri, D. b. darevskii, D. lindholdmi, D. szczerbaki), Dalmatolacerta oxycephala, Dinarolacerta mosorensis (only in the Biokovo sample, and not in Durmitor or D. montenegrina), Apathya cappadocica, in some places of the scales of Parvilacerta fraasii (but not in P. parva) and very little in D. (p) hungarica; also in the remaining group of D. rudis (D. valentini valentini, D. v. lantzicyreni, D. rudis bolkardaghica, D. portschinskii), and some parthenogenetic species (D. armeniaca, D. dahli, D. rostombekowi) but not in D. unisexualis, D. uzzelli, D. sapphirina, D. bendimahiensis or in the triploid hybrid between D. unisexualis and D. nairensis. In these parthenogenetic species it seems a general rule that the character of the crenulation or irregularity of the posterior flange of the cells resembles that of the paternal rather than the maternal species. The exception is the triploid hybrid [arisen from the hybridization of D. unisexualis (parthenogenetic female, without the character) and a male of D. nairensis (with fairly developed character)] that lacks character, and in this case is more similar to the maternal species of which has two genetic sets compared to only one of the paternal one.
Arribas, O.J. & Ananjeva, N.B. & Carranza, S: & Doronin, I.V. & Harris, D.J. & Orlov, N.L. & Orlova, V.F. (2017) -
Busack et al. (2016) concluded that the name Darevskia should be attributed to Arribas (1999) instead of Arribas (1997), rendering the latter name a junior synonym of Caucasilacerta Harris et al. (1998). In this paper, we provide a detailed answer to Busack et al. (2016) and argue that Arribas (1997) fulfilled the publication requirements of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN) in place in 1997 and, therefore, Darevskia Arribas, 1997 is a valid name. In order to clarify this issue, a case has been submitted to the ICZN. To avoid unnecessary confusion in Old World Lacertid taxonomy, we recommend that until the commission rules on this case, Arribas (1997) should continue to be considered the authority of both Darevskia and Iberolacerta.
Arribas, O.J. & Ananjeva, N.B. & Carranza, S: & Doronin, I.V. & Orlov, N.L. & Orlova, V.F. (2018) -
The purpose of this application under Articles 78.1 and 81 of the Code is to request the Commission to use its plenary power to choose among two alternatives in order to preserve the genus name Darevskia and nomenclatural stability. In Alternative A, the Commission is asked to accept the microfiche publication (Arribas, 1997) as a published work in the sense of the Code and made available the names included therein, placing Iberolacerta Arribas, 1997 and Darevskia Arribas, 1997 on the Official List of Generic Names in Zoology, their type species on the Official List of Specific Names in Zoology, and the microfiche edition of Arribas (1997) on the Official List of Works Approved as Available for Zoological Nomenclature. This action will promote stability, as both names are widely accepted and, if the 1997 publication in microfiche is considered unavailable, then Darevskia Arribas, 1997 could potentially be threatened by Caucasilacerta Harris et al., 1998 (by authors who would not consider this name a nomen nudum), which would clearly disrupt stability. Not only would this alternative be the best way to preserve nomenclatural stability as stressed in the ICZN Preamble and repeated in several Articles of the Code, but it would also be the only way to ensure that these names (available at the time of their publication) remain available after the retroactive changes that have been introduced between the third and fourth editions of the Code. If Alternative A is chosen, both Iberolacerta and Darevskia become available from Arribas (1997). In Alternative B, the microfiche publication (Arribas, 1997) is considered invalid and placed on the Official Index of Rejected and Invalid Works in Zoological Nomenclature. Both Iberolacerta and Darevskia would be considered published in Arribas (1999). Also, the Commission is asked to place on the Official Index of Rejected Generic Names in Zoology the name Caucasilacerta Harris et al., 1998 (as a nomen nudum due to the lack of a valid diagnosis) and to place on the Official List of Generic Names in Zoology the names Iberolacerta Arribas, 1999 and Darevskia Arribas, 1999.
Arribas, O.J. & Carbonero, J. & Lizana, M. (2008) -
Arribas, O.J. & Carranza, S. (2004) -
Iberolacerta cyreni martinezricai is elevated to the species level (I. martinezricai) based on both morphological and molecular data. The phylogenetic analysis using two mitochondrial and one nuclear gene shows I. martinezricai is more closely related to I. monticola than to I. cyreni. A multivariate analysis of the morphological data also supports the affinities between I. martinezricai and I. monticola but, at the same time, clearly indicates that I. martinezricai is morphologically distinct from both I. monticola and I. cyreni. The molecular data suggests I. cyreni and the clade formed by I. monticola + I. martinezricai split approximately 6.1 Mya, during the Mesinian Salinity Crisis, when climatic conditions around the Mediterranean area changed dramatically as a result of the desiccation of the Mediterranean Sea. Separation between I. martinezricai and I. monticola occurred approximately 2 Mya but, with at least two equally plausible alternative hypotheses, their biogeography is still unclear. New data on the habitat and distribution of I. martinezricai indicates its distribution area is very small (12–15 km2), and that it lives in a climatically extreme habitat for this kind of mountain species. As a result of that and the low numbers of individuals, I. martinezricai is considered here as Critically Endangered.
Arribas, O.J. & Carranza, S. (2009) -
Arribas, O.J. & Carranza, S. (2012) -
Arribas, O.J. & Carranza, S. & Odierna, G. (2006) -
A new species of Iberolacerta is described from the Montes de León (northwest Iberia). This new species, Iberolacerta galani sp. nov., is characterized by its relatively large size, high number of blue ocelli on the shoulders and the relatively frequent contact or near-contact between the supranasal and the first loreal scale, the fairly straight squamosal bone (only curved on its posterior part), a unique karyotype in Iberolacerta combining 2n=36 chromosomes, an L-type NOR and differentiated W and Z sex chromosomes, and unique mitochondrial DNA sequences for the cytochrome b and 12S rRNA genes. The correlation analyses show that morphology in general, but especially scalation, is strongly correlated with the amount of precipitation during the months of lizard activity, which suggests that these are not good taxonomic characters, and that other characters apparently independent of the climate like for instance osteological, karyological and DNA features are much more reliable in delimiting species boundaries in Iberolacerta. According to our phylogenetic analyses, I. galani nov. is part of a very well supported clade that originated around 2.5 mya and also includes I. monticola and I. martinezricai. Phylogeny suggests I.martinezricai might be the sister taxon to I. galani nov. from which it split approximately 2 mya, at the beginning of the Pleistocene. The clade containing I. galani nov., I. martinezricai and I. monticola was probably widely distributed across western Iberia during moderately cool and moist phases of the Pleistocene, but it was probably restricted to its present range as a result of the general temperature increase during the Holocene and competition with other lacertid lizards. Iberolacerta galani nov. is endemic to the Montes de León, where it is isolated from the other species of the “monticola-group” by the Duero and Miño-Sil Rivers, but particularly by the Bibei river valley.
Arribas, O.J. & Cliville, S. (1994) -
Arribas, O.J. & Galan P. & Remon N. & Naveira H. (2014) -
Iberolacerta populations from the Northern Montes de León (NML) were studied by means of external morphology (scalation and biometry), osteology and genetics (mtDNA and microsatellites), searching for their homogeneity (“intrazonal analysis”) and, once verified, comparing them with Iberolacerta monticola s. str. (from Central Cantabrian Mountains) and I. galani (from Southern Montes de León) (“extrazonal analysis”) from neighboring areas. Our “intrazonal analysis” revealed discordances between the different approaches, especially the patterns of variation of nuclear microsatellites (congruent with external morphology) and mtDNA, namely a very low nuclear differentiation between relatively highly differentiated mtDNA lineages. The morphological approach was unable to discriminate any of the populations as significantly different from the others in the NML. Mitochondrial DNA revealed a haplotype lineage closely related to I. galani (MNL-II in our text) in some specimens of Sierra de Villabandín and Suspirón, but these populations are morphologically indistinguishable from the main part of the other populations that belong to lineage NML-I, phylogenetically closer to I. monticola. After a separation from I. monticola ca. 1.8 Mya, the populations in this geographic region must have suffered at least two different waves of gene flow from I. galani, the second one not much later than 0.5 Mya. Microsatellite results indicate that all the NML populations are genetically similar in terms of their nuclear genomes, independently of their mitochondrial differentiation (NML-I vs. NML-II haplotype groups). Since all the morphological and microsatellite evidences point towards the fact that, independently of the mitochondrial haplotypes that they bear (NML-I or NML-II), there is only one taxon in the area, we describe it as: Iberolacerta monticola astur ssp. nov. Concerning the relationships of I. m. astur ssp. nov. with I. monticola s. str. and I. galani (“extrazonal analysis”), in the female analyses the new taxon centroid is closer to I. monticola s. str. than to I. galani (more similarity with I. monticola s. str.), whereas in the male analyses the relationship is just the contrary (closer to I. galani, paralleling the direction of the hypothesized past hybridization). Moreover, in both sexes’ ANOVA, I. m. astur ssp. nov. results more similar (less P<0.05 differences) to I. galani than to I. monticola s. str. Osteologically, I. m. astur ssp. nov. is slightly more similar to I. monticola s. str. than to I. galani, especially in the squamosal bone, which is regularly arched (primitive shape). Genetically, as indicated above, the NML populations can be subdivided in two groups according to their mitochondrial DNA, namely NML-I (bearing clearly differentiated haplotypes, phylogenetically closer to I. monticola) and NML-II (whose haplotypes could have been mistaken for those of an I. galani population). This mitochondrial subdivision has at most a subtle nuclear correlate, however. According to the nuclear microsatellite markers, all the NML populations belong to a single group (I. m. astur ssp. nov.), which would be more similar to I. galani than to I monticola, with NML-II populations lying closer to I. galani than those from the NML-I group and, correspondingly, more distant from I. monticola. The discordant phylogenetic signal of mitochondrial and nuclear markers is discussed in terms of past introgression events and sex-biases in phylopatry and dispersion in these species. Iberolacerta monticola astur ssp. nov., inhabits the Northern Montes de León (Sierra de Gistreo sensu latissimo): Gistredo, Catoute, Tambarón, Nevadín, Villabandín (or Macizo del Alto de la Cañada), Arcos del Agua (or Fernán Pérez), Tiendas and Suspirón, mainly in quartzite and slate rock substrates. Its current distribution, cornered in the NW of the Northern part of the Montes de León, suggests a possible competitive exclusion between this taxon and I. galani, as the galani haplotypes (NML-II) appear cornered in the most harsh and continental areas, speaking also about a, even in the past, very limited presence of this species in the area that probably was soon absorbed by I. m. astur ssp. nov. (with NML-Concluding, it seems that the current main distribution area of I. m. astur ssp. nov. (especially the typical NML-I) gravitates around what was the divisory between watersheds in the past, later shifted to the East during the Quaternary. Eastern known limits of I. m. astur ssp. nov. do not pass away from Collado de Campo Lamoso (1500 m), which today is perfectly suitable for the species, but during the Pliocene and the main part of the Pleistocene, constituted a barrier across which the two northern immediate valleys drained to the southern slopes. The West-East continuity of this massif during the end of the Miocene was broken by changes in the drainage across this pass in the Pliocene (geological datation uncertain). Although nowadays the pass to the East (to the Filera Massif, 1879 m) is possible for Iberolacerta, the prospections in these drier limestone areas had been unfruitful. In the north of these Sierras, the species can reach up to Cascaros peak (1854 m), but this extreme has to be confirmed.
Arribas, O.J. & Galán, P. (2005) -
The three lacertid lizards species of the Iberolacerta genus, which have recently been described or recognised as different species, are reptiles that live strictly at the highest altitudes in Europe, from elevations of near 1900 up to more than 3000 m a.s.l. in the Pyrenees (Spain, Andorra, France). In this paper, the reproductive cycle and reproductive characteristics of these species are described for the first time. Data were obtained from field studies carried out in different high-mountain Pyrenean locations from 1989–2002. In addition we also conducted hatching studies in laboratory. Due to the harsh climatic conditions in the high mountains the activity cycle of these species is very short, just over 4 months, from mid-May to late September or beginning of October. This affects their reproductive cycle (i.e., only one annual egg-clutch is produced), as well as other reproductive characteristics, as the existence of a very advanced embryonic development at oviposition, which is interpreted as an advanced stage in the tendency towards viviparity, and diverse life history characteristics as a very little annual growth which greatly delays sexual maturity to 4 years in males and 4–5 years in females. Clutch size correlates significantly with female snout-vent length (SVL) in all three species. The average clutch size is 2.53 eggs in I. aurelioi (the smallest species), 3.03 in I. bonnali and 3.44 in I. aranica (the biggest species). Notwithstanding the differences in egg number the three species have a similar egg volume. The incubation period in the laboratory is very short with an average of 30–36 days among the species. The low reproductive potential observed in these three species and revealed in this paper is a strongly threatening factor which, together with their extremely reduced distribution area, endangers these endemic, rare and very threatened species.
Arribas, O.J. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutaş, Y. (2018) -
The intraspecific variability of Darevskia parvula (which has two classical subspecies easily identifiable by external characteristics, D. p. parvula and D. p. adjarica), was studied using various approaches including morphology (scalation and biometry), multivariate analyses (PCA, CDA, ANOSIM, UPGMA and MST), osteology, and molecular techniques. High mitochondrial distance, differences at the nuclear level and morphological distinctiveness warrant the specific status of both taxa, Darevskia parvula (Lantz & Cyrén, 1913) and Darevskia adjarica (Darevsky & Eiselt, 1980) stat. nov. A lectotype for D. parvula, originally described with syntypes of both species -D. parvula and D. adjarica- is designated. The uncorrected genetic distance between D. parvula and D. adjarica in the cytochrome b mitochondrial gene is 14.4% ± 1.9%. Intraspecific variability within D. parvula is very small (1.5% ± 0.5%), and was not detected in our samples of D. adjarica. The two species further differ by two mutations in the nuclear melano-cortin 1 receptor (mc1r) gene. Interestingly, past introgression of D. parvula mitochondrial haplotypes (5% ± 1% different to those currently known) into some D. adjarica has been detected in one locality; all the studied specimens of D. adjarica with mtDNA of D. parvula are unmistakably D. adjarica at the morphological and nuclear levels. Morphologically, there is almost no overlap between D. parvula and D. adjarica. These results are corroborated by CDA, MST and UPGMA trees. Specimens of the inland high mountain population of Ardahan (clearly D. adjarica in CDA, MST and UPGMA trees) occupy a somewhat intermediate position between both taxa in the PCA (when specimens and not populations as a whole are considered), but this morphological closeness may be attributed to the influence of climatic factors (continental conditions) on scalation of the specimens. Males appear to be more differentiated than females. Overlap among samples within each species is very marked; none can be separated clearly from its conspecifics. This is even more marked in D. parvula, which has a fairly small area compared to D. adjarica. Darevskia parvula and D. adjarica samples appear to be homogeneously clustered within species and well separated between the two species in the UPGMA trees. In males and females all the D. parvula samples are very similar and moderately differentiated. In males of D. adjarica, the most differentiated seems to be adjBorçka, the others all being clustered together, with adjÇaykara showing slightly more differentiation from the rest (adjOrtacalar, adjArdahan, adjIkizdere and adjÇermik). Darevskia adjarica females are also similarly distributed into two subgroups, one including Borçka, Çermik and Ardahan and the other including Ortacalar, Ikizdere and Çaykara. In both sexes, the inland Ardahan sample clearly belongs to D. adjarica. From the most connected MST samples, speculations can be made about areas of origin and expansion of the different taxa. Ortacalar (D. adjarica) and Hatila (D. parvula) are the most connected (morphologically more “central” in both taxa); in fact, both populations are relatively close, living on the northern (Black Sea) and southern (Anatolian) facing slopes, respectively of the Doğu Karadeniz Mountains (Kaçkar Mountains). This highlights these mountains, which rise from sea level up to nearly 4000 m asl. and have wide buffering possibilities against climate changes, as a zone of refuge and posterior dispersion of this species, and even of the original splitting into two taxa adapted to these different conditions, D. adjarica on the coast and D. parvula on the continental slope. Osteologically D. parvula and D. adjarica are very similar, although Georgian specimens from an isolated population (Atskuri) have closed clavicles not found in Turkish D. adjarica. Also, inland Ardahan D. adjarica have an extra vertebra in both males and females, compared to the other studied specimens from both species. ARRIBAS ET AL. 72 · Zootaxa 4472 (1) © 2018 Magnolia Press The present study indicates that the situation in Turkey is that D. parvula is well differentiated and lives around the Çoruh River Valley, contoured by D. adjarica populations on the coastal-facing slopes of the Doğu Karadeniz Mountains on one side, and the Yalnızçam Mountains on the other side, where D. adjarica enters from Georgia as the opposite extreme of a geographic distribution. The attribution of more inland ranges to D. parvula or D. adjarica, as well as the detailed genetic structure of both taxa may be confirmed with more specific studies.
Arribas, O.J. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Durmus, S.H. & AVci, A. & Üzüm, N., (2013) -
A broad sample of Darevskia rudis from the main part of its range was reviewed with regard to external morphology (dis-criminant, UPGMA, MST and ANOVA analyses) and osteology. Darevskia bithynica is raised to species rank, with two subspecies: D. b. bithynica and D. b. tristis. The other subspecies are fairly similar (D. r. rudis being the most different). Two singular populations are described as subspecies: D. r. mirabilis ssp. nov. from Kaçkar Mountains, geographically adjoins the otherwise different D. r. bischoffi and D. r. bolkardaghica ssp. nov., which is geographically isolated but that seems to be very closely related to D. r. obscura.
Arribas, O.J. & Martinez-Rica, J.P. (1997) -
Arribas, O.J. & Odierna, G. (2004) -
Iberolacerta (cyreni) martinezricai has a karyotype of 2n = 36, all acrocentric macrochromosomes. Nucleolar Organizer Regions (NORs) are interstitially situated on a medium small (MS-type) chromosome, a derived character shared with I. cyreni, which differs in details of W-sex chromosome: W is heteromorphic and heterochromatic in I. cyreni, while it is homomorphic and euchromatic in I. (c.) martinezricai. Osteologically, it is characterized by the presence of a triangular-shaped expansion of the squamosal towards the supratemporal fenestra, and by the presence of seven (instead of six) posterior short ribbed presacral vertebrae. These odd characters probably became fixed in this relic taxon by imbreeding. Its differences and affinities are discussed, proposing a specific status for this taxon.
Arribas, O.J. & Rivera, X. (2015) -
Lowland localities of Wall lizard Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) in La Selva district (Girona, NE Iberian Penin-sula) are presented. This kind of isolated and extreme localities, in the boundaries of their distribution area are vanishing due to habitat destruction. A review of other reptile species in Catalonia that maintain or maintained populations in this same situation is done, with special account to the case of Zamenis longissimus.
Arronet, V.N. (1968) -
Arronet, V.N. (1973) -
Arslan, D. & Olivier, A. & Yaşar, Ç. & Ismail, I.B. & Döndüren, Ö. & Ernoul, L. & Beck, N. & Çiçek, K. (2018) -
In this study, we conducted an inventory of amphibians and reptiles between 2013 and 2016 in the Gediz Delta (İzmir, Turkey). The field results were combined with existing records. According to the data obtained, a total of 35 herptile species live in the region, comprising 7 amphibians (2 urodeles, 5 anurans) and 28 reptiles (6 chelonians, 10 lizards and 12 snakes). Five species (Lissotriton vulgaris, Triturus ivanbureschi, Heremites auratus, Platyceps collaris and Telecopus fallax) were recorded for the first time in the Gediz Delta during the study. A chorotype classification and potential threats of the species are also presented.
Arslan, R. & Urgutas, I.H. & Altunel, F.N. (2013) -
Artacho, P. & Jouanneau, I. & Galliard, J.F. le (2013) -
Studies of the relationship of performance and behavioral traits with environmental factors have tended to neglect interindividual variation even though quantification of this variation is fundamental to understanding how phenotypic traits can evolve. In ectotherms, functional integration of locomotor performance, thermal behavior, and energy metabolism is of special interest because of the potential for coadaptation among these traits. For this reason, we analyzed interindividual variation, covariation, and repeatability of the thermal sensitivity of maximal sprint speed, preferred body temperature, thermal precision, and resting metabolic rate measured in ca. 200 common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) that varied by sex, age, and body size. We found significant interindividual variation in selected body temperatures and in the thermal performance curve of maximal sprint speed for both the intercept (expected trait value at the average temperature) and the slope (measure of thermal sensitivity). Interindividual differences in maximal sprint speed across temperatures, preferred body temperature, and thermal precision were significantly repeatable. A positive relationship existed between preferred body temperature and thermal precision, implying that individuals selecting higher temperatures were more precise. The resting metabolic rate was highly variable but was not related to thermal sensitivity of maximal sprint speed or thermal behavior. Thus, locomotor performance, thermal behavior, and energy metabolism were not directly functionally linked in the common lizard.
Artacho, P. & Saravia, J. & Ferrandière, B.D. & Perret, S. & Le Galliard, J.F. (2015) -
Phenotypic selection is widely accepted as the primary cause of adaptive evolution in natural populations, but selection on complex functional properties linking physiology, behavior, and morphology has been rarely quantified. In ectotherms, correlational selection on thermal physiology, thermoregulatory behavior, and energy metabolism is of special interest because of their potential coadaptation. We quantified phenotypic selection on thermal sensitivity of locomotor performance (sprint speed), thermal preferences, and resting metabolic rate in captive populations of an ectothermic vertebrate, the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara. No correlational selection between thermal sensitivity of performance, thermoregulatory behavior, and energy metabolism was found. A combination of high body mass and resting metabolic rate was positively correlated with survival and negatively correlated with fecundity. Thus, different mechanisms underlie selection on metabolism in lizards with small body mass than in lizards with high body mass. In addition, lizards that selected the near average preferred body temperature grew faster that their congeners. This is one of the few studies that quantifies significant correlational selection on a proxy of energy expenditure and stabilizing selection on thermoregulatory behavior.
Arteaga, M.F. & Avila, J. & Martin-Vasallo, P. & Trujillo, C.M. (2003) -
Arutyunyan, T.K. (2013) -
The infection of blood parasites rock lizards of genus Darevskia depending on the environment was studied. The bisexual (D. valentini) and parthenogenetic (D. armeniaca) species and their interpopulation differences depending on the infestation were compared.
Арутюнян, Т.К. (2013) -
Изучалась зараженность кровепаразитами скальных ящериц рода Darevskia в зависи- мости от среды обитания. Сравнивались двуполые (D. valentini) и партеногенетические (D. armeniaca) виды и их межпопуляционные различия в зараженности особей указанным паразитом. àõëáõÙÝ3ëÇñí»É ¿ Darevskia ó»ÕÇ Å3Ûé3ÛÇÝ ÙáÕ»ëÝ»ñÇ í3ñ3Ïí3ÍáõÃÛáõÝÝ 3ñÛ3Ý Ù3- Ï3μáõÛÍÝ»ñáía Ï3Ëí3Í μÝ3ÏáõÃÛ3Ý ÙÇç3í3ÛñÇ å3ÛÙ3ÝÝ»ñÇó: Ð3Ù»Ù3ïí»É »Ý »ñÏë»é (D. valentini) ¢ Ïáõë3ÍÇÝ (D. armeniaca) ï»ë3ÏÝ»ñÁ ¢ ïíÛ3É Ù3Ï3μáõÛÍáí í3ñ3Ïí3ÍáõÃÛ3Ý, ÙÇçåáåáõÉÛ3óÇáÝ ï3ñμ»ñáõÃÛáõÝÝ»ñÁ:
Arutyunyan, T.K. & Petrosyan, F.D. & Danielyan, F.D. & Arakelyan, M.S. (2013) -
Aschauer, M. & Grabher, M. & Huber, D. & Loacker, I. & Tschisner, C. & Amann, G. (2008) -
Ash, C. (2017) -
Mass extinction may be reaching parts that we do not normally consider. Like most living organisms, lizards are dependent on a variety of cohabiting microorganisms for optimum health. Bestion et al. looked at the cloacal microbiota of Zootoca vivipara lizards living in semi-natural enclosures under various temperature regimes. Life at warmer temperatures affected the lizards` most diverse gut bacterial phyla, which declined by over 30%. In particular, the relative abundances of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes dropped, and those of Proteobacteria increased, at 3°C above present conditions. Species richness positively correlated with lizard survival the following year. What mediates the changes in bacterial diversity is not understood, but climate may be acting via food supplies, host behavior, or body condition. The data also revealed gender differences in functional features of the resulting microbiota.
Ashe, J. & Ashe, S. (1995) -
Ashe, J. & Ashe, S. (1999) -
Ashley-Best, H. (1965) -
Aslanyan A.V. & Arakelyan M.S. (1999) -
Асланян А.В. & Аракелян М.С. (1999) -
Aslanyan, A.V. & Petrosyan, R.P. & Arakelyan, M.S. (2014) -
Asmussen, U.-C. (1997) -
In the Ahr valley near Heimersheim (federal state of Rheinland-Pfalz) a case of canibalism in Podarcis muralis was recorded. An adult male of this species swallowed a juvenile. The habitat is described and causes for cannibalism are discussed.
Assisi, L. & Botte, V. & D`Aniello, A. & Fiore, M.M. di (2001) -
The present study investigated the role of D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) in ovarian steroidogenesis and its effect on aromatase activity in the lizard, Podarcis s. sicula. It was determined that D-Asp concentrations vary significantly during phases of the reproductive cycle: they vary inversely with testosterone concentrations and directly with oestradiol concentrations in the ovary and plasma. Experimental treatment showed that administration of D-Asp induces a decrease in testosterone and an increase in oestradiol, and that treatment with other amino acids (L-Asp, D-Glu and D-Ala) instead of D-Asp has no effects. Experiments in vitro confirmed these results. Furthermore, these experiments showed an increase in aromatase activity, as the addition of D-Asp either to fresh ovarian tissue homogenate or to acetonic powder of ovarian follicles induced a significant increase in the conversion of testosterone to oestradiol. Aromatase activity is four times greater in the presence of D-Asp than in its absence. However, almost equivalent values of the two K(m) values (both approximately 25 nmol l(-1)) indicate that aromatase has the same catalytic properties in both cases.
Assmann, O. (1998) -
Assmann, O. (2002) -
Im bayerischen Donauengtal zwischen Pssau und der Landesgrenze Österreich existiert ein seit langem bekannter Bestand der Smaragdeidechse (Lacerta viridis). Insbesondere für Smaragdeidechse und Äskulapnatter wurde 1986 ein Naturschutzgebiet ausgewiesen. Der Schwerpunkt der Smaragdeidechsenvorkommen des insgesamt bandartigen Areals liegt in einem Abschnitt, bei dem am Hangfuß ein Bahndamm verläuft. Auf der Basis einer Zustandserfassung und eines Pflege- und Entwicklungsplanes werden verschiedene Artenhilfsmaßnahmen im Projekt: „Organisation und Umsetzung von Pflege- und Entwicklungsmaßnahmen im ´Naturschutzgebiet Donauleiten von Passau bis Jochenstein´“ seit 1993 umgesetzt. Gleichzeitig gab es wesentliche Vermeidungs- und Ausgleichsmaßnahmen bei Eingriffen. Existenziell wichtig sind die Unterhaltungsmaßnahmen in den Optimalhabitaten entlang einer Bahnstrecke, von Straßenrändern und vom Donauufer. Die Beratung und Zusammenarbeit mit den zuständigen Stellen im Rahmen des Projektes und die ökologische Baubegleitung bei Maßnahmen haben daher derzeit höchste Priorität. Daneben wurden auch aktive Pflegemaßnahmen in Form von Mahd und Entbuschung durchgeführt. Die erfolgreiche Neuschaffung von Habitaten gelang auf einer Ausgeleichsfläche. Flächenankäufe umfassten zumindest teilweise auch Habitate der Smaragdeidechse und ermöglichen künftige Pflegemaßnahmen. Die Entstehung neuer Habitate durch natürliche Dynamik der Donau ist derzeit nicht möglich. Im Bereich zufließender Bäche bestehen hier durchaus Chancen in den Zukunft. Ein gezielter Ankauf geeigneter Flächen soll erfolgen. Es wird empfohlen, das NSG auch weiterhin kontinuierlich zu „betreuen“. Zusätzlich sollte jedoch ein Monitoringprogramm für die Smaragdeidechse und andere hochgradig gefährdete Arten des NSG erfolgen.
Aßmann, O. (2016) -
Aßmann, O. (2021) -
Aßmann, O. (2023) -
Aßmann, O. (2024) -
Astasio-Abriza, P. & Zapatero-Ramos, L.M. & Ojeda-Rosas, C. & Solera-Puertas, M.A. (1987) -
Astruc, G. & Guillon, M. & Lourdais, O. & Marchand, M.-A. & Besnard, A. (2017) -
Astruc, G. & Guillon, M. & Lourdais, O. & Marchand, M.-A. & Besnard, A. (2018) -
Astudillo, G. & Garcia-Paris, M. & Prieto, J. & Rubio, J.L. (1993) -
In this paper we provide the first data on the distribution of amphibians and reptiles in the province of Guadalajara (Castilla – La Mancha, Spain). From a heropetological point of view Guadalajara is one of the most unknown provinces in Spain. At this time we have recorded 30 species, 15 of which were not previously cited in the area. Provisional maps of distribution are presented in 10 x 10 km U.T.M. squares. Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Lacerta lepida, Lacerta schreiberi, Podarcis hispanica, Podarcis muralis, Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus hispanicus.
Atagun, F. (1984) -
Atatür, M. & Göçmen, B. (2001) -
Atkins, J.D. & Franz-Odendaal, T.A. (2016) -
The sclerotic ring consists of several bones that form in the sclera of many reptiles. This element has not been well studied in squamates, a diverse order of reptiles with a rich fossil record but debated phylogeny. Squamates inhabit many environments, display a range of behaviours, and have evolved several different body plans. Most importantly, many species have secondarily lost their sclerotic rings. This research investigates the presence of sclerotic rings in squamates and traces the lineage of these bones across evolutionary time. We compiled a database on the presence/absence of the sclerotic ring in extinct and extant squamates and investigated the evolutionary history of the sclerotic ring and how its presence/absence and morphology is correlated with environment and behaviour within this clade. Of the 400 extant species examined (59 families, 214 genera), 69% have a sclerotic ring. Those species that do not are within Serpentes, Amphisbaenia, and Dibamidae. We find that three independent losses of the sclerotic ring in squamates are supported when considering both evolutionary and developmental evidence. We also show that squamate species that lack, or have a reduced, sclerotic ring, are fossorial and headfirst burrowers. Our dataset is the largest squamate dataset with measurements of sclerotic rings, and supports previous findings that size of the ring is related to both environment occupied and behaviour. Specifically, scotopic species tend to have both larger inner and outer sclerotic ring apertures, resulting in a narrower ring of bone than those found in photopic species. Non-fossorial species also have a larger sclerotic ring than fossorial species. This research expands our knowledge of these fascinating bones; with further phylogenetic analyses scleral ossicles could become an extremely useful character trait for inferring the behaviour of fossil squamates.
Attum, O.A. & Eason, P.K. (2006) -
Aubin, G. & Cluchier, A. & Geniez, P. (2017) -
Discovery of Psammodromus algirus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Sauria: Lacertidae) in French Provence-Alpes-Côte-d`Azur region. Review of the new observations of the species east of the Rhône. Recent herpetological investigations in the French departments of Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence in 2008 and in the Var in 2016 revealed the occurrence of populations of the Algerian sand lizard Psammodromus algirus a region in which the species was hitherto unknown as the river Rhône was considered the natural biogeographic barrier to the species’ distribution towards the East. An assessment of previous observations in the region is drawn up, origins of the populations are discussed, and research perspectivess are proposed.
Aubret, F. & Tort, M. & Michniewicz, R.J. & Blanvillain, G. & Coulon, A. (2014) -
Reptile sheltering behaviour, despite profound life history ramifications, remains poorly investigated. Whether or not individuals share a suitable shelter or, conversely, exclude conspecifics may depend on associated costs (resource partitioning, sexual harassment, disease or parasite contamination) and benefits (predation risk dilution, thermal resilience, information sharing). We performed two experiments on field caught wall lizards (Podarcis muralis), a highly territorial species, to investigate the relative roles of sex and body size in night sheltering. In the first experiment, random pairs of lizards were offered two identical shelters. Lizards either shared a shelter, or sheltered separately. In the second experiment, different random pairs of lizards were offered only one shelter so as to elicit a share or compete response. Body size and sex both appeared as significant drivers for sheltering patterns. Unexpectedly, wall lizards often chose to share shelters. When only one shelter (too small to accommodate two adult lizards) was available, many lizards rejected the sheltering option in preference for aggregation. Such aggregative behaviour was not sex dependant, and may reflect thermoregulatory or anti-predatory benefits. Our results nevertheless suggest that cooperative behaviour may exist in wall lizards
Audouin, J.V. (1809) -
Audouin, J.V. (1829) -
Audouin, V. (1809) -
Auer, M., F.A. Khudhur, T. Panner & F. Zönnchen (2021) -
The article describes observations on distribution, population density and social behavior of Timon kurdistanicus in Turkey, Iran and Iraq. The discovery of two different colour morphs in male T. kurdistanicus is noteworthy.
Auerbach, R.D. (1985) -
Auerbach, R.D. (1986) -
Auerbach, R.D. (1987) -
Augé, M. (1988) -
Augé, M. & Pouit, D. (2009) -
Un dentaire de lézard incomplet, provenant d’une carrière de falun d’Anjou, à Noyant-sous-Lude, Miocène, Orléanien, (MN3) ou MN5 est décrit. Un ensemble de caractères montre qu’il appartient aux Lacertidae ; on citera : la forme arquée de l’ensemble du dentaire, le sulcus Meckeli ouvert jusqu’à la symphyse mandibulaire, la présence de dents faiblement hétérodontes et bicuspides. Cette forme à la dentition banale chez les Lacertidae se distingue facilement des lacertidae à dentition élargie trouvés dans les mêmes niveaux miocènes des faluns. La signification paléoécologique de ces fossiles sera discutée.
Augustin, H. (2018) -
Auliya, M. (2003) -
The European Union is one of the world`s largest markets for live reptiles, such as snakes, lizards and tortoises, and the exotic and scaly animals have become increasingly fashionable as pets since the early 1990s. Even though captive-breeding efforts have improved significantly in the last few decades, a large proportion of the reptiles offered in pet shops in the EU still originate from the wild and hence the live reptile trade can have a considerable impact on the conservation status of these species.
Ausanneau, M. & Baudouin, A. de & Fossé, C. & Gagnier, S. & Lelièvre, H. & Lise, H. & Lolive, N. & Oleszczynski, S. & Veron, F. (2018) -
Ausanneau, M. & Baudouin, A. de & Fossé, C. & Gagnier, S. & Lelièvre, H. & Lisse, H. & Lolive, N. & Oleszczynski, S. & Veron, F. (2018) -
Austen, E.E. (1891) -
Autum, O. & Eason, P. & Cobbs, G. & Baha El Din, S.M. (2006) -
We report the impact of human-induced desertification on the species richness, abundance, and composition of sand dune flora and herpetofauna of North Sinai, Egypt. Our hypothesis was that degraded habitats would have reduced vegetation complexity, richness, and abundance, and consequently lower reptile species richness and abundance. We also hypothesized that desert lizards would not follow the typical generalist/specialist responses to habitat degradation found in other biomes. Instead, we predicted that because vegetation loss intensifies the environmental extremity of deserts, those species specialized for open and sandy environments would be more likely to persist in desertified habitats than would desert generalists. Our results showed that areas protected from vegetation loss did not have significantly higher vegetation richness or abundance except for only a few species. However, protected sites did have significantly higher percent veg etation cover and height. Habitat protection clearly had strong effects on the reptile community as species richness and abundances were significantly higher in protected sites. The composition of the reptile community between protected and unprotected sites differed significantly. Contrary to past studies in other environments, desert generalist species were not able to persist in degraded sites and were only found in protected sites. Specialist species were ubiquitous in that they occurred in both areas protected and unprotected from vegetation loss. We propose that the effects of disturbance on species composition (specialists or generalists) depends on whether the disturbance exacerbates or reduces environmental harshness and the conditions that favor specialization. In extreme environments, specialist and generalist responses to habitat degradation are opposite to that of more productive environments.
Autumn, K. & Wang, Y.-Z. (1995) -
Avallone, B. & Fascio, U. & Balsamo, G. & Marmo, F. (2008) -
There is little information available on the susceptibility of reptilian saccule hair cells to ototoxin-induced sensory damage. In this study, we report morphological evidence of hair cell recovery and regeneration after damage induced by gentamicin in the saccule of a lizard. We perform morphological analysis using scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy with actin and calbindin as markers for hair cells and tubulin as a marker for supporting cells. The data were consistent: gentamicin induced damage in the hair cells, and the damage increased with increasing duration of treatment. Initially, the saccule appeared unhealthy. Subsequently, the sensory hair cells became compromised, with fused stereovilli, followed by widespread loss of hair cell bundles from the hair cells. Finally, numerous hair cells were lost. Morphologically, the saccule appeared normal 28days after gentamicin treatment. Using a mitogenic marker, we tested whether or not there is hair cell regeneration following administration of gentamicin. We found evidence of bromodeoxyuridine incorporation first in supporting cell nuclei and subsequently in hair cell nuclei. This indicates that a process of sensory epithelium repair and hair cell regeneration occurred, in both extrastriolar and striolar regions, and that the recovery was due to both the proliferation of supporting cells and, as seems likely, self-repair of hair cell bundles.
Avci, A. & Ilgaz, C. & Bozkurt, E. & Üzüm, N. & Olgun, K. (2015) -
The distribution of Iranolacerta brandtii previously was limited to the Iran. Anew locality is reported here in eastern Turkey. Data based on meristic pholidosis characters, metric measurements and color-patter features of the specimens from eastern Turkey were given in detail and compared with data given in the previous literature. In addition, the first record of Iranolacerta brandtii from outside of Iran is reported here.
Avel, M. & Verrier, M.L. (1930) -
Avery, R.A. (1962) -
Avery, R.A. (1966) -
Avery, R.A. (1970) -
1. Lipids in the abdominal fat bodies and the tail of Lacerta vivipara caught in August and September accounted for one third of the dry body weight. 2. When the lizards emerged from hibernation in March and April, lipids accounted for only one sixth of the dry body weight. Half of the loss was from the tail.
Avery, R.A. (1971) -
(1) Common lizards maintain a body temperature of 30.2+-2.5 degrees C during the daytime whilst the sun is shining. When they are not able to maintain this temperature, they retreat underground and do not feed; under these conditions, the body temperature falls to that of the surrounding air. (2) Feeding behaviour depends on the amount of sunshine. During 1969 there were 132 days when lizards fed regularly (`sunny` days), 42 when they fed sporadically (`changeable` days) and 191 when they did not feed. (3) Food consumption was estimated by four methods, and these are compared. The simplest method involved collection of faeces from wild-caught animals, and gave values for food consumption of F = 21.8W0.74 on `sunny` days and F = 12.4W0.70 on `changeable` days where F = food consumption in mg dry weight g live weight-1 day-1 and W = live weight in grams. (4) Ad libitum consumption of mealworms by lizards in the laboratory was given by F = 22.0W0.79. (5) With one exception, estimates of food consumption by other methods did not diverge from those given above by more than +- 20%.
Avery, R.A. (1973) -
Stomach volumes of the lizard Lacerta vivipara were determined by injection with water to a pressure of 40 mm mercury. The relation between stomach volume and body weight is isometric. Food consumption per unit of body weight, however, decreases with increasing size. It is concluded that stomach volume is not the main factor which determines food consumption. Food is lost from the stomach at an exponential rate. At normal temperatures, the stomach is nearly empty at the beginning of the morning activity period.
Avery, R.A. (1974) -
Lipids in various tissues of Lacerta vivipara were measured at three times of the year: immediately after hibernation, mid-season, and immediately prior to hibernation. Lipid deposits in the abdominal fat bodies and the caudal fat bands fluctuated seasonally, but at any time showed a marked positive allometry with body length and weight; the functional significance of this relationship is not known. Carcass lipid and liver weight were isometric with body length and weight.
Avery, R.A. (1975) -
Survivorship of L. vivipara in the field was estimated from visual census of the age-composition of two populations. There was approximately 90% mortality in the first year of life; but the mean expectation of life of an individual which survived to its first birthday was then between four and five years.
The ratio clutch weight: body weight in Lacerta vivipara is 0.4; larger lizards produce more eggs, and total clutch weight is isometric with body weight. The clutch represents between 7% and 9% of the estimated annual assimilation of a female lizard, and 23–24% of the assimilation during the period between emergence from hibernation and the establishment of the eggs in the oviducts.
Avery, R.A. (1976) -
Avery, R.A. (1978) -
(1) Two sympatric lizard species, Podarcis (=Lacerta) muralis brueggemanni and P. sicula campestris, were studied in Tuscany. (2) The daily cycle of behaviour is strongly influenced by weather conditions. P. muralis is active for approximately 255 days per year. (3) The mean active body temperatures maintained by the two species in the laboratory did not differ significantly, but in the field in August they differed by 1.6 degrees C (P. muralis 33.6 degrees C; P. sicula 35.2 degrees C), although the maxima were identical (36.6 degrees C). It is suggested that the difference in mean body temperature is a consequence of differences in habitat and foraging behaviour between the species. (4) Daily food consumption was estimated by method (b) of Avery (1971), using pooled data for the two species. Consumption during hot weather in August was given by C=34.6W0.65 and during cooler weather in April by C=19.3W0.71 where C=food consumption in mg dry wt day-1 and W=live wt in grams. Estimated annual food consumption of P. muralis for 3 years ranged from 162.8-168.8 kJ g live wt-0.7yr-1. (5) Stomach volume (combined data for the two species) was given by V=0.092W0.79 where V=volume in ml and W=live wt in grams. (6) P. muralis differs from Lacerta vivipara in Britain in the following respects: (i) individuals are active on 83 (=48%) more days yr-1; (ii) active body temperature is 3.4 degrees C higher; (iii) daily weight-specific food consumption is 50-59% greater; (iv) annual weight-specific food consumption is 127-151% greater; (v) stomach volume is greater, by an amount which varies with body weight. The significance of these differences is discussed.
Avery, R.A. (1980) -
Avery, R.A. (1991) -
Avery, R.A. (1993) -
Slightly disturbing captive common lizards, Lacerta vivipara, by movement and noise while they are basking in laboratory arenas resulted in an increase in respiration frequency (Rf) and a decrease in the probability that a lizard would respond to the introduction of a potential prey item. Two categories of pre(crickets and mealworms) were presented at three locations defined in relation to the snout of a lizard; there were clear negative correlations between Rf and probability of feeding in all cases. Respiration frequency can thus be used as a means for determining whether a lizard in a feeding trial has been diverted by extraneous stimuli. This is important in investigations of foraging efficiency in relation to perceptual fields and movement patterns, in which it is necessary to know that experimental animals have not been diverted in this way.
Scan samples of locations and observations on distances moved by Podarcis sicula during July and August near Pisa in central Italy showed that there was hitherto unrecorded diel variation in the area within which movement took place and in the distances moved per unit time. This variation was studied intensively in a focal adult female lizard; the proportion of the home range utilised over a 10 day period showed maxima from 09:00-1:00 hr (71%: 80 m super(2)) and 16:00-17:00 h4 (39%: 44 m super(2)). The 14:00-15:00 hr areas of movement in six further lizards were affected by the amount of available shade, averaging 1/50 of the 09:00-10:00 hr movement area when shade was < 5% of total habitat (n = 5) and 1/7 when shade was > 15% (n = 2). Experimentally increasing the area of shade available to two lizards from 5 to 20% resulted in an increase in the area of movement.
Avery, R.A. (1994) -
Male, female and juvenile wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) observed living on a high, south- facing brick wall in April and August were sometimes (4% of total observation time in adult males) seen immobile, facing downwards in an orientation equivalent to the `survey` posture of Anolis and other Iguanidae. Some aspects of the temporal dynamics of the behaviour were investigated. It was most commonly seen in adult males during August, when there were significant trends for the frequency of the posture to increase towards the base of the wall and for the mean time spent immobile in the posture to be greater than the mean times immobile at other orientations. The `survey` posture at the middle and higher levels of the wall appeared to be associated with topographical features such as small tufts of vegetation or bricks which stood proud from the remainder. This association could not be tested directly, but fixing a small strip of wood to the wall increased the duration of locomotor pauses and the frequency of `survey` postures of lizards when they were immediately above it.
Avery, R.A. & Basker, A. & Corti, C. (1993) -
Two adult Podarcis muralis whose normal movements incorporated the flat top of a wall, frequently paused so that they were looking outwards from an edge (“scan” posture), especially during longer (>9 s) periods immobile. Investigations of the posture onraised wooden platform in outdoor enclosures, using two juvenile lizards, showed that (1) lizards spent significantly more time on platforms than would be expected from random movement, and this was not because wood is a favoured substrate for basking; (2) lizards which were immobile on platforms spent significantly more time at edge than would be expected by chance; (3) body orientations at 67.5-112.5° to the edge were the most frequent and these were maintained for significantly longer periods than the remaining roetations; exceptions were from 0800-0900 h when orientation was often parallel to the edge facing the sun and from 1200-1300 h with only a thin strip of shade at 45°, into which the lizards fitted themselves. Lizards basking in the laboratory beneath a tungsten bulb at the edge of a raised platform adopted outward-facing orientations when the platform height was >6 mm. When presented with a choice between basking more effectively (i.e. rapid heating rate) or adopting the “scan” posture at an edge with a lower heating rate or with no heating, they opted for the former. Podarcis sicula, P. filfolensis, Lacerta viridis and L. vivipara all showed an excess of outward-facing orienatations when the basking bilbs were place near edges of platforms, but Psammodromus hispanicus did not. Only the two Podarcis species, however, spent more time on raised platforms than would be excepted by chance when basking was possible at many sites in an arena.
Avery, R.A. & Bedford, J.D. & Newcombe, C.P. (1982) -
Decreasing levels of simulated solar radiation have the following effects in the diurnal basking lizard Lacerta vivipara: (i) increase in time spent basking with a consequent decrease in time available for foraging (ii) decrease in speed of movement whilst foraging (iii) decrease in total foraging distance, and hence contact with potential prey (iv) decrease in searching efficiency in an experimental arena. Complete absence of simulated solar radiation accentuates these effects, and reduces the proportion of faster-moving prey in the diet. Time taken to swallow prey (handling time) increases exponentially with decreasing body temperature. It is concluded from these results that maintaining relatively high activity temperatures (30–36°C) is adaptive for the species because the loss of potential foraging time caused by lengthy periods of basking is offset by the following advantages: increased contact with and capture of prey, increased efficiency of prey handling, and availability of a wider range of prey types.
Avery, R.A. & Bond, D.J. (1989) -
Lacerta vivipara emerging from their overnight retreat before they had the opportunity to thermoregulate moved with an alternation of locomotor bursts and pauses. Mean speed during bursts of locomotion fell with decreasing temperature from 3.21 snout-vent lengths (SVL) s-1 at the activity temperature (Tact ~ 33°C) to 0.15 SVL s-1 at 5°C. Between Tact and 19°C the reduction was small (Q10 = 1.12) and statistically not significant; between 19°C and 5°C the change was very much greater (Q10 = 7.7). The pauses between locomotor bursts increased progressively in duration over the whole range of decreasing temperatures from Tact to 5°C, although then change from Tact to 23°C was not significant. Gait changed progressively from almost simulaneous movement of contralateral diagonal limbs at Tact to independent movement of limbs in the sequence LF, RH, RF, LH at 7°C, with increases in the mean duty factor of individual feet from 0.50 to 0.76 and in the proportion of time for which 3 or 4 feet were in simultaneous contact with the ground from 0 to 0.92.
Avery, R.A. & McArdle, B.H. (1973) -
Avery, R.A. & Mueller, C.F. & Jones, S.M. & Smith, J.A. & Bond, D.J. (1987) -
Four species of lacertid lizards (Podarcis muralis, Podarcis pityusensis, Lacerta viridis, and Lacerta trilineata) moving in laboratory arenas alternated bursts of locomotion with short (<1 s) pauses. Variables relating to this movement are compared under two conditions, defined as `standard` and `fleeing,` with values previously recorded for Lacerta vivipara. Mean speeds of the five species (U, in cm s-1) increased with increasing body mass (M, in g) as U = 15.1 M 0.17. When expressed in body lengths per second, however, mean speeds decreased with increasing body mass. The ratio of `fleeing` to `standard` speed was lower in adult L. vivipara than in adults of P. muralis, P. pityusensis, and L. trilineata and was lower in juvenile L. vivipara than in juvenile L. viridis; possible reasons for these differences are discussed. The incidence and duration of pauses in the five species decreased with increasing body mass.
Avery, R.A. & Mueller, C.F. & Smith, J.A. & Bond, D.J. (1987) -
Lacerta vivipara moving across an open space at their normal activity temperature alternate bursts of locomotion with short pauses which tend to occur at the extremes of the limb cycle, i.e. when individual limbs are maximally adducted or retracted and the spinal cord is maximally flexed in the lateral plane. The movement bursts and pauses in adult lizards have mean durations of 0–30 and 012 s, respectively, and within bursts the lizards move at a mean speed of 14–6 cm s-1. Movement in juvenile lizards is 2–5 times faster (relative to body length) and the pauses are of longer duration (mean = 019 s), giving the locomotion of juveniles a more jerky appearance. Lizards which are chasing crickets increase the speed and the duration of locomo-tory bursts, although the pauses persist. Lizards which are searching for a previously perceived cricket increase pause duration (mean = 0–40 s). Lizards which are fleeing from a sudden disturbance move at almost twice (juveniles) or 3–7 times (adults) the speed of foraging animals: the pauses persist, although at much reduced frequency. Increases in speed result from increases in both stride length (Λ) and stride frequency (n); the ratio Λ/n appears to remain constant at 006. The significance of these observations is discussed, although the functions of the pauses cannot yet be explained.
Avery, R.A. & Mynott, A. (1990) -
The time taken by adolt Lacerta vivipara to manipulate and swallow living crickets or mealworms (handling time, H) is determined by body temperature and by the size of the prey. H increases exponentially with decreasing body temperature. It increases with prey site at any temperature in proportion to (prey mass). H. did not change when a lizard fed sequentially on a number of smaller invertebrates, except that the duration for the first item was usually greater than the mean for the remainder. Feeding resulted in an increase in respiration frequency which was proportionately greater at lower temperature. Feeding was often interspersed with pauses which increased in duration with decreasing body temperature and increasing prey size.
Avery, R.A. & Perkins, C.M. (1989) -
Measurements of the rates at which droppings of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) on Jersey appeared in, and disappeared from, the environment made it possible to formulate a simple mathematical model for the dynamics of faecal pellet populations. The model shows how, for a given lizard population, the number of droppings changes with time according to weather conditions. It was used to estimate lizard densities at a number of sites from daily pellet counts. There were significant differences in the densities of lizards between sites; possible reasons for these are discussed.
Avery, R.A. & Shewry, D.R. & Stobart, A.K. (1974) -
Avery, R.A. & Tosini, G. (1995) -
The propability that lizards would capture crickets declined with distance from the snout, at rates which were significantly more rapid in all directions in Lacerta vivipara than in Podarcis muralis or L. viridis, i.e. the former species responded to potential prey over a smaller area. Capture probabilities at any distance in front of or behind the snout were lower in P. muralis or L. viridis which were pausing during locomotion than in basking lizards, confirming previous results with L. vivipara. Using capture probabilities for pausing lizards to calculate the average time it would take to find a single item of prey (tf) in relation to the mean length of locomotor bursts, on the assumption that prey could only be detected while a lizard was pausing, showed that actual mean burst distance corresponded exactly with the burst distance which gave rise to minimum tf in L. vivipara. Mean locomotor burst distances in P. muralis and L. viridis were lower than the distances which gave minimum tf values. It is suggested that, in these species, the mean burst length has evolved as a compromise between minimising tf and avoiding the high overall energy expenditures which would result from long burst lengths.
Avery, R.A. & White, A.S. & Martin, M.H. & Hopkin, S.P. (1983) -
Specimens of the common lizard Lacerta vivipara were captured from beside a busy road, a little used country road, and the spoil heaps of a disused lead mine. Concentrations of lead, zinc and copper in lizards from beside the busy road were no higher than in those from the little used road, although levels in soils, vegetations and some invertebrates were greater. Levels of lead were higher, however, in lizards from the site contaminated by mining. Concentrations of metals in lizards from all three sites were lower than those in soils and most invertebrates, demonstrating that L. vivipara do not accumulate heave metals to an extent that their position ín the food chain might suggest.
Aviad, B. & Haimovitch, G. (2012) -
Avital, E. (1981) -
Avramo, V. & Senczuk, G. & Corti, C. & Böhme, W. & Capula, M. & Castiglia, R. & Colangelo, P. (2021) -
Islands are compelling natural laboratories for studying evolutionary processes. Nevertheless, the existence of general rules underlying morphological evolution on islands remains an unresolved issue. In this study, we investigated the insular phenotypic variability of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) on a large geographical scale, in order to assess the putative existence of an island effect on three morphological head traits: shape, size and degree of sexual dimorphism. A geometric morphometric analysis was performed on 30 island and 24 mainland populations, involving a total of 992 specimens, and we analysed differences in both mean trait values and variances (disparity). We found increased shape disparity in insular lizards with respect to mainland ones. On the other hand, both size disparity and mean head dimensions of males decreased on islands, leading to a reduction in sexual dimorphism. Our results provide evidence for a multidirectional morphological diversification on islands concerning head shape of both sexes, while directional and canalizing selection likely occurred for head size, but only in males. Our findings improve our knowledge on the effect of insularity in Podarcis siculus, and highlight the need for an exstensive sampling scheme and a multi-trait methodological approach.
Avramov, S. & Crnobrnja, J. & Aleksic, I. (1994) -
Axelsson, J. & Wapstra, E. & Miller, E. & Rollings, N. & Olsson, M. (2020) -
telomeres, the protective, terminal parts of the chromosomes erode during cell division and as a result of oxidative damage by reactive oxygen species (RoS). ectotherms rely on the ambient temperature for maintaining temperature-dependent metabolic rate, regulated through behavioural thermoregulation. their temperature-dependant metabolism, hence also the RoS production, is indirectly regulated through thermoregulation. Consequently, a potential causal chain affecting telomere length and attrition is: temperature (in particular, its deviation from a species-specific optimum) – metabolism - ROS production – anti-oxidation - telomere erosion. We measured telomere length in sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) using qPCR on blood samples from 1998–2006. Effects of climatological parameters (mean temperature and average sunshine hours) in the summer and winter preceding telomere sampling were used as predictors of telomere length in mixed model analysis. During the lizards’ active period (summer), there was a largely negative effect of mean temperature and sun on telomere length, whereas a combined measure of age and size (head length) was positively related to telomere length. During the inactive period of lizards (winter), the results were largely the opposite with a positive relationship between temperature and sunshine hours and telomere length. in all four cases, thermal and age effects on telomere length appeared to be non-linear in the two sexes and seasons, with complex response surface effects on telomere length from combined age and thermal effects.
Ayerle, N. (2012) -
Ayllón Lopez, E. & Barbera Luna, J.C. (2011) -
Ayllón Lopez, E. et al. (2023) -
The application of molecular markers to the study of geographic variation in widely distributed species has often revealed new species that had been overlooked because of their superficial resemblance to related taxa. A good example are lizards in the Podarcis hispanica s.l. complex, which after taxonomic revision (Geniez et al., 2014) was split into several species. In this communication we focus on two of them, Podarcis guadarramae and P. virescens, broadly distributed in central Iberia but with poorly defined ranges in Comunidad de Madrid and neighboring regions. García París et al. (1989) first described the distribution of Podarcis hispanica s.l. in Madrid, illustrating with pictures distinctive coloration patterns associated to different areas in the region, but since then there have been no followup studies taking into account taxonomic changes and delineating the ranges of the two species in the complex that are present in Madrid. In this study we delimited the range boundaries of P. guadarramae and P. virescens in Comunidad de Madrid through a combination of molecular analyses and morphological data and the modeling of their potential distributions. The occurrence of Podarcis guadarramae in Madrid comprises the mountains of Sierra de Guadarrama and their foothills, on geological settings of quartzite, granite, and shale, at altitudes ranging from 650 m in the Alberche river valley up to 2000 m in the southern slopes of Siete Picos, with an incompletely defined contact zone with Podarcis virescens extending parallel to Sierra de Guadarrama, along the municipalities of Cenicientos, San Martín de Valdeiglesias, Villamanta, Zarzalejo, Fresnedillas de la Oliva, Torrelodones, Hoyo de Manzanares, Soto del Real, El Berrueco and El Cardoso. We confirm the record of P. guadarramae in Torrejón de la Calzada, and identify other population isolates in the city of Toledo (confirmed with molecular data) and San Martín de Montalbán (morphological data). Podarcis virescens spreads through most of the Madrid region, from 494 m in Aranjuez up to around 950 m in Colmenar Viejo, not overlapping with P. guadarramae, thus displaying a complementary distribution over geological settings of gravel, sandstone, and dolomites in the southeastern part of the region. This species is common in constructions and anthropized areas, and can be found mostly in low elevation plains and plateaus, often in agricultural land, but also in urban areas and parks, as well as in natural habitats like forested hills with rocky outcrops. Our results suggest the possible existence of ecological differentiation processes that might contribute to reproductive isolation between the two species.
Ayllón, E. (2015) -
Ayllón, E. & Bustamante, P. & Cabrera, F. & Flox, L. & Galindo, A.J. & Gosáövez, U. & Hernández, J.M. & Morales, M. & Torralvo, C. & Zamora, F. (2003) -
The preliminary distribution of amphibians and reptiles of the Ciudad Real province (Castilla-La Mancha, Spain) is presented. Thirty-four species, 13 amphibians and 21 reptiles, have been found. For each species, distribution maps in 10 x 10 Km U.T.M. quadrats and a discussion on the distribution, habitat and threats affecting its conservation are provided. We conclude that the Ciudad Real province presents one of the richest herpetofauna of the Iberian Peninsula, despite the scarcity of Eurosiberian species. Among all the species present in Ciudad Real, the relative abundance of Emys orbicularis populations is especially relevant compared to the rest of Spain. Similarly, it is remarkable the presence of a newly discovered population of Hemidactylus turcicus in Castilla-La Mancha, which represents one of the most inland populations of this species in the Iberian Peninsula.
Ayllón, E. & Castillo, M. & Folch, A. (2020) -
Ayllón, E. & Ruedi, M. (2020) -
Ayllón, E. & Toledo, Y. & Santiago, J. (2020) -
Aymerich, M. (2010) -
Ayres-Fernández, C. (2020) -
Ayres, C. (2020) -
Arboreal behaviour in Podarcis bocagei inhabiting a coastal habitat in Northwestern Spain is reported in this note. Ornamental olive trees were selected as a refuge rather than as bask-ing areas.
Ayres, C. (2021) -
Ayres, C. & Dominguez-Costas, M. (2021) -
Azanza, M.J. (1984) -
Azanza, M.J. & Aisa,J. & Junquera, C. (1990) -
The innervation of the liver and gallbladder of the lizard Podarcis hispanica has been studied by the following methods: a) demonstration of cholinesterase activity; b) FIF method for catecholamines; and c) immunohistochemistry for VIP. The hepatic parenchyma of the reptile`s liver show hepatocytes arranged in regular rows of hepatic cords, the portal triad being typical of higher vertebrates (birds and mammals). Nerve fibers are found in the scarce connective tissue distributed among the hepatocytes. The innervation is restricted to the big branches of blood vessels and biliary ducts. It is represented by cholinergic, noradrenergic and VIPergic fibers. The gallbladder shows a well developed cholinergic plexus with pyramidal cells in the interconnection points of the fiber network. The noradrenergic and VIPergic plexuses are also more widely distributed in the gallbladder than in the liver.
Azzouz, Z. & Belkacemi, S. (2021) -
Bénéficiant de paramètres climatiques favorables aux reptiles, les milieux arides représentent un laboratoire et un observatoire idéal de la faune reptilienne, essentiellement les lézards. Ces derniers jouent un rôle prépondérant dans l’équilibre des écosystèmes et le maintien de la diversité biologique dans les milieux arides. Le genre Acanthodactylus, est celui qui caractérise le mieux les populations de lézards du paléarctique occidental et saharienne, on retrouve quelques Espagne et en Asie. Mais c’est surtout en Afrique du Nord où on rencontre le plus gros des effectifs. Ce genre a la particularité d’avoir un taux de polymorphisme très important il scindé en quatre complexe d’espèce (A. , A. pardalis, A. boskianus et A scutellatus). Cette diversité est associée à une variabilité morphologique importante au sein des populations. C`est dans cette optique que s`inscrit la présente étude qui porte sur la variabilité phénotypique des caractères morphologiques externes, de trois populations de lézard du genre Acanthodactylus appartenant au complexe A. scutellatus. Nos échantillons, ont couvert deux différentes stations situées au Sahara algérien: Adrar et El Oued; soit un effort de collecte de N = 108 spécimens dont 48 femelles et 60 mâles. Nous avons pris en compte 04 caractères morphologiques scalamétriques qui ont été joignis à 30 caractères morphologiques. Il ressort des résultats que les caractères d’écailleurs chez les Acanthodactyles ne présentent pas un effet sur le dimorphisme sexuel. En revanche nous avons mis en évidence que 08 des 30 caractères analysés sont discriminants et permettent par leur combinaison de caractériser la population d’Adrar.
B.U.G.S. (Büro für Biologische Umwelt-Gutachten Schäfer) (2010) -
Baal, H.J. (1962) -
Baard, E.H.W. (1987) -
Baard, E.H.W. & Villiers, A.L. de (2000) -
The six floristic biomes in the Western Cape Province (W.C.P.), namely the Fynbos, Afromontane Forest, Thicket, Grassland, Nama and Succulent Karoo Biomes (Low and Rebelo, 1996), are not only diverse with regard to the variety of plant species and communities occurring there, but also contain a wide diversity of animal species, biogeographical zones, landscapes and natural features, both within the terrestrial and aquatic (freshwater and marine) context. In addition to the topographical diversity of the Cape Fold Mountains, the coastal zone and lowlands, and their transition into surrounding habitats, the W.C.P. experiences a wide climatic diversity too. These features have resulted in an extensive and complex diversity of habitat types which partly explain the rich biological diversity within the W.C.P. Past climatic changes on a global scale have also influenced ecological systems and processes within the W.C.P. to the extent where it is believed that vicariant speciation processes and events during global climatic changes have resulted in evolutionary driving forces that have had significant impacts on the biodiversity within the biogeographical boundaries of the W.C.P. (Vrba, 1985).
Baban, N.S. & Orozaliev, A. & Kirchhof, S. & Stubbs, C.J. & Song, Y.-A. (2022) -
Lizard tail autotomy is an antipredator strategy consisting of sturdy attachment at regular times but quick detachment during need. We propose a biomimetic fracture model of lizard tail autotomy using multiscale hierarchical structures. The structures consist of uniformly distributed micropillars with nanoporous tops, which recapitulate the high-density mushroom-shaped microstructures found on the lizard tail’s muscle fracture plane. The biomimetic experiments showed adhesion enhancement when combining nanoporous interfacial surfaces with flexible micropillars in tensile and peel modes. The fracture modeling identified micro- and nanostructure-based toughening mechanisms as the critical factor. Under wet conditions, capillarity-assisted energy dissipation pertaining to liquid-filled microgaps and nanopores further increased the adhesion performance. This research presents insights on lizard tail autotomy and provides new biomimetic ideas to solve adhesion problems.
Babocay, G. & Vági, B. (2012) -
In 2011, the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Group (ARCG) of BirdLife Hungary launched a conservation programme to survey the North Hungarian populations of Dolichophis caspius and its habitats in the vicinity of Budapest, and to build up a habitat management plan for the species. From March through the end of September we made a total of ten visits on four habitats. On two fragments of one habitat (Farkas-hegy), with an extension of 1–1.5 ha, we observed eleven (7 ad., 2 subad., 2 juv.) D. caspius. We captured and, after recording a few data, released five of them. Six specimens were positively identified as different. On both habitat fragments a large number of lizards (Lacerta viridis and Podarcis muralis) were observed, constituting a good supply of prey for the snakes. The habitats are burdened with an increasing number of shrubs and trees, invasive plant species and recreational activity. With help of volunteers we removed the black pines from one of the habitat fragments of Farkas-hegy. We intend to survey additional habitats and if necessary to build up management plants to improve them. Our Dolicophis programme together with other programmes of ARCG triggered an increased citizen involvement.
Babocsay, G. (1997) -
Babocsay, G. (2011) -
Bacci, M. & Lanza, B. & Linari, R. & Tosini, G. (1992) -
A portable optical-fiber spectrum analyzer operating in the visible and near-infrared range was used to measure in vivo the skin reflectance of lizards of the genus Podarcis. The investigations, which we performed in connection with a study of the biological problem of the microinsular melanism, are quite safe for the examined animals and can be easily extended to spectroscopic and/or energy input studies in other animals.
Baček, P. (2019) -
Rapid evolution is a biological process in which phenotypic and genetic changes happen so fast that they are noticeable within generations. One of the intriguing examples of rapid phenotypic divergence is a result of a translocating experiment conducted in 1971. Five pairs of Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) were transferred from a small islet Pod Kopište onto Pod Mrčaru islet where the species was not present before. After only 36 years it was discovered that the new established, introduced population from Pod Mrčaru had developed diverse phenotypical changes compared to the native population. With the objective of determine the inheritance of those morphological traits we set a reciprocal cross-experiment with individuals from both islands. The crossbreeding was performed in common garden conditions to determine if the phenotypical differences between offspring have genetic background. We measured eight morphologic traits, emphasizing head measures, considering that the biggest observed differences between populations were in head shape. Those traits were measured every two months through the developmental period, from the moment of hatching until one year afterwards. In this work we present the results of the morphometric analysis of the the first generation of offspring. The results show that the sex has a big influence on the individual size. While observing the overall data pattern it seems that hybrids have different values than pure crosses which suggests that there is a genetic background for the differences. However, bigger sample size is needed to confirm it with certainty.
Brza evolucija biološki je proces u kojem se promjene neke populacije događaju toliko brzo da su vidljive već unutar nekoliko generacija. Jedan od intrigantnijih primjera brze fenotipske divergencije je rezultat translokacijskog eksperimenta provedenog 1971. godine. Pet parova primorske gušterice (Podarcis siculus) prebačeno je s otočića Pod Kopište na Pod Mrčaru gdje do tada vrsta nije bila prisutna. 37 godina kasnije otkriveno je da je novo introducirana populacija na otoku Pod Mrčaru u to kratko vrijeme razvila razne fenotipske promjene u odnosu na izvornu populaciju. U ovom radu uspoređivani su potomci prve generacije unakrsnog križanja jedinki s oba otoka. Cilj ovog rada je bio ustvrditi nasljednost morfoloških svojstava kod križanaca jer se time indicira da utvrđene fenotipske razlike imaju genetsku osnovu. Kroz razvojni period od izlijeganja do navršene prve godine života mjerilo se osam morfoloških obilježja (mjere cijeloga tijela, s naglaskom na mjere glave obzirom da su najveće uočene razlike između populacija vezane za veličinu glave). Statistička obrada dobivenih podataka pokazala je da spol ima velik utjecaj na veličinu jedinke, a promatranjem trendova vidi se da križanci imaju mjere različite od čistih jedinki što je nagovještaj da postoji genetska osnova za prikazane rezultate, no potreban je puno veći uzorak kako bi se to moglo sa sigurnošću potvrditi.
Bachhausen, P. (2017) -
Bachmann, M. (1979) -
Badaeva, T.N. (2008) -
Николаевна, Б.T. (2008) -
Badaeva, T.N. & Korchagin, V.I. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Ryskov, A.P. (2006) -
Badaeva, T.N. & Korchagin, V.I. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Ryskov, A.P. (2007) -
Badaeva, T.N. & Malyshava, D.N. & Korchagin, V.I. & Ryskov, A.P. (2008) -
Unisexual all-female lizards of the genus Darevskia that are well adapted to various habitats are known to reproduce normally by true parthenogenesis. Although they consist of unisexual lineages and lack effective genetic recombination, they are characterized by some level of genetic polymorphism. To reveal the mutational contribution to overall genetic variability, the most straightforward and conclusive way is the direct detection of mutation events in pedigree genotyping. Earlier we selected from genomic library of D. unisexualis two polymorphic microsatellite containg loci Du281 and Du215. In this study, these two loci were analyzed to detect possible de novo mutations in 168 parthenogenetic offspring of 49 D. unisexualis mothers and in 147 offspring of 50 D. armeniaca mothers . No mutant alleles were detected in D. armeniaca offspring at both loci, and in D. unisexualis offspring at the Du215 locus. There were a total of seven mutational events in the germ lines of four of the 49 D. unisexualis mothers at the Du281 locus, yielding the mutation rate of 0.1428 events per germ line tissue. Sequencing of the mutant alleles has shown that most mutations occur via deletion or insertion of single microsatellite repeat being identical in all offspring of the family. This indicates that such mutations emerge at the early stages of embryogenesis. In this study we characterized single highly unstable (GATA)n containing locus in parthenogenetic lizard species D. unisexualis. Besides, we characterized various types of mutant alleles of this locus found in the D. unisexualis offspring of the first generation. Our data has shown that microsatellite mutations at highly unstable loci can make a significant contribution to population variability of parthenogenetic lizards.
Bade, E. (1899) -
Bader, T. (2011) -
Bader, T. (2020) -
During a trip to Taiwan in May 2018, an Austrian team of herpoetologists recorded three different species of lizards in various habitats. While the mountain dweller Takydromus hsuehshanensis was found in gravel slopes and dump sites above 1.800 m, T. kuehnei was recorded in small clearings and forest margins in the transition zone between planes and hills. Finally T. viridipunctatus was found in gardens and parks in the North of the country near the coast.
Bader, T. (2021) -
Kroatien ist eines der herpetologisch artenreichsten Länder Europas und daher ein beliebtes Reiseziel mitteleuropäischer Herpetologen. Aufgrund des in den letzten Jahrzehnten stetig weiter ausgebauten Autobahnnetzes ist das Land gut und schnell zu bereisen, lediglich die Grenzwartezeiten an den Urlaubswochenenden sind noch einigermaßen mühsam, da Kroatien noch nicht im Schengen-Raum aufgenommen wurde. Viele im Rahmen der ÖGH oder Herpetofauna.at durchgeführten Exkursionen führten uns in den letzten Jahren nach Kroatien.
Bader, T. & Kopeczky, R. & Riegler, C. & Wieland, F. (2016) -
In Armenien kommen drei Arten der Gattung Lacerta (L. agilis, L. media, L. strigata), drei Arten der Gattung Eremias (E. arguta, E. pleskei, E. strauchi) sowie jeweils eine Art der Gattung Parvilacerta (P. parva) und Ophisops (O. elegans) vor. Neben Kurzbeschreibungen der einzelnen Arten wird auf Beobachtungen der Eidechsen im Gelände während einer Reise im Jahr 2015 eingegangen.
Die Eidechsenfauna Armeniens setzt sich nach aktuellem Wissensstand aus 17 Arten aus fünf Gattungen zusammen. Die am stärksten vertretene Gattung ist Darevskia mit neun Arten. Davon sind fünf zweigeschlechtlich (D. nairensis, D. portschinskii, D. praticola, D. valentini) und vier Arten parthenogenetisch (D. armeniaca, D. dahli, D. rostombekovi, D. unisexualis). Neben Kurzbeschreibungen der Arten teilen wir unsere Beobachtungen einer Exkursion im Jahr 2015 mit.
Bader, T. & Kopeczky, R. & Wieland, F. & Frahm, S. (2024) -
On a herpetological trip to the north-west of the Iberian Peninsula, the authors were able to record a total of ten species of lacertid lizards along with other reptile species. In particular, the densely populated Portuguese Atlantic coast proved to be a species-rich lizard habitat.
Bader, T. & Riegler, C. (2004) -
Bader, T. & Riegler, C. & Grillitsch, H. (2009) -
Based on several recent herpetological surveys, as well as data from the literature and the collection of the Natural History Museum in Vienna, the knowledge about the herpetofauna of Rhodes is summarized and a new species list is prepared. The following species have regularly been encountered: Bufo viridis, Hyla arborea, Pelophylax cerigensis, Mauremys rivulata, Hemidactylus turcicus, Laudakia stellio, Ophisops elegans, Lacerta trilineata, Anatolacerta oertzeni, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Chalcides ocellatus, Trachylepis aurata, Blanus strauchi, Typhlops vermicularis, Dolichophis sp., Platyceps najadum, Hemorrhois nummifer, Zamenis situla, Natrix natrix and Telescopus fallax. The taxonomic status of the occurring whip snakes is discussed. Mediodactylus kotschyi has been added to the island fauna because of some records in the South part of the island. The occurrence of Testudo graeca, Pseudopus apodus and Natrix tessellata was put into question because their mention in older literature remained unconfirmed. Recent single records of Chamaeleo chamaeleon, Malpolon monspessulanus, Testudo graeca and Testudo hermanni are listed and their status is discussed. Die Herpetofauna von Rhodos wird aufgrund von Literaturdaten, Sammlungsmaterial des Naturhistorischen Museums in Wien sowie Ergebnissen diverser herpetologischer Exkursionen aufgelistet. Verbreitungskarten aller nachgewiesenen Arten sowie eine aktuelle herpetologische Faunenliste werden erstellt. Folgende Arten wurden regelmäßig und wiederholt festgestellt: Bufo viridis, Hyla arborea, Pelophylax cerigensis, Mauremys rivulata, Hemidactylus turcicus, Laudakia stellio, Ophisops elegans, Lacerta trilineata, Anatolacerta oertzeni, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Chalcides ocellatus, Trachylepis aurata, Blanus strauchi, Typhlops vermicularis, Dolichophis sp., Platyceps najadum, Hemorrhois nummifer, Zamenis situla, Natrix natrix, Telescopus fallax. Der taxonomische Status der Springnatter wird diskutiert. Aufgrund mehrerer aktueller Funde wird Mediodactylus kotschyi ergänzend zur Herpetofauna von Rhodos hinzugefügt und das Auftreten folgender Arten, deren Vorkommen in der Literatur regelmäßig für Rhodos angegeben wurde, in Frage gestellt: Testudo graeca, Pseudopus apodus, Natrixm tessellata. Aktuelle Einzelfunde gelangen von Chamaeleo chamaeleon, Malpolon monspessulanus, Testudo graeca und Testudo hermanni, deren Status diskutiert wird.
Badiane, A. (2017) -
Caudal autotomy is a process usually used by numerous lizards to escape from predators. During the regeneration, morphological anomalies can appear such as the poly-furcation of the tail. Here, we report here the presence of a tail trifurcation in a Croatian Podarcis muralis.
Badiane, A. & Carazo, P. & Font, E. (2018) -
The blue-throated keeled lizard, Algyroides nigropunctatus, is distributed along the Adriatic coast from Italy to Greece and is sexually dichromatic. Males display a striking blue on their throat, an orange ventrum, and a dark brown dorsal colouration, but their colouration has never been objectively assessed. Here, we describe the colouration of 13 male blue-throated keeled lizards from Cres Island (Croatia) using spectrophotometry and ultraviolet (UV) photography, and show that the blue throat and the blue spots located on the flanks reflect in the UV part of the spectrum. We discuss the potential role of UV-blue colouration in social signalling.
Badiane, A. & Dupoué, A. & Blaimont, P. & Miles, D.B. & Gilbert, A.L. & Leroux-Coyau, M. & Kawamoto, A. & Rozen-Rechels, D. & Meylan, SD. & Clobert, J. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2022) -
1. Male lizards often display multiple pigment-based and structural colour signals which may reflect various quality traits (e.g. performance, parasitism), with testosterone (T) often mediating these relationships. Furthermore, environmental conditions can explain colour signal variation by affecting processes such as signal efficacy, thermoregulation and camouflage. The relationships between colour signals, male quality traits and environmental factors have often been analysed in isolation, but simultaneous analyses are rare. Thus, the response of multiple colour signals to variation in all these factors in an integrative analysis remains to be investigated. 2. Here, we investigated how multiple colour signals relate to their information content, examined the role of T as a potential mediator of these relationships and how environmental factors explain colour signal variation. 3. We performed an integrative study to examine the covariation between three colour signals (melanin-based black, carotenoid-based yellow–orange and structural UV), physiological performance, parasitism, T levels and environmental factors (microclimate, forest cover) in male common lizards Zootoca vivipara from 13 populations. 4. We found that the three colour signals conveyed information on different aspects of male condition, supporting a multiple message hypothesis. T influenced only parasitism, suggesting that T does not directly mediate the relationships between colour signals and their information content. Moreover, colour signals became more saturated in forested habitats, suggesting an adaptation to degraded light conditions, and became generally brighter in mesic conditions, in contradiction with the thermal melanism hypothesis.
Badiane, A. & Font, E. (2021) -
Colour signals are ubiquitous in nature but only recently have researchers recognised the potential of ultraviolet (UV)-refecting colour patches to function as signals of quality. Lacertid lizards often display UV-blue patches on their fanks and black spots over their entire body, both of which are under sexual selection. They also have a cryptic dorsum and some species have a conspicuous, polymorphic ventral coloration. In this study, we use the Tyrrhenian wall lizard Podarcis tiliguerta to investigate the information content of the lateral UV-blue patches and black melanin spots of males by assessing the relationship between colour features and individual quality traits. In addition, we use a visual modelling procedure to examine whether the colora tion of the diferent body parts and diferent colour morphs can be distinguished by a wall lizard visual system. We found that larger males had more numerous and larger UV-blue patches, with a higher UV chroma, UV-shifted hue, but a lower spectral intensity than smaller males. The extent of black on the throat, dorsum, and fanks also correlated with male body size and size-corrected head length but not with colour features of the UV-blue patches. These results suggest that the UV-blue and melanic colour patches may provide diferent, non-redundant information about male resource holding potential, and thus act as condition-dependent indicators of male quality. Finally, we found that the diferent body parts can be chromatically distin guished from each other, and that the UV-blue patches are the most conspicuous while the dorsum is the least conspicuous.
Badiane, A. & Martin, M. & Meylan, S. & Richard, M. & Cencière Ferrandière, B. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2020) -
Pre-copulatory female mate choice based on male ultraviolet (UV) coloration has been demonstrated in several vertebrate species; however, post-copulatory mechanisms have been largely overlooked. Here, we investigated female mate preference based on male UV coloration in the common lizard Zootoca vivipara, in which males display conspicuous UV coloration on their throat. During two successive years, we staged sequential mating trials between females and four different males with UV-reduced or control belly and throat coloration. We recorded pre-copulatory female behaviour, copulation behaviour and assigned paternity to all offspring. Females were more aggressive towards UV-reduced males and, during the second year, UV-reduced males had a lower probability of siring at least one egg (fertilization success) during the last mating trials. However, in the second year, copulation was shorter with control males. Altogether, our results suggest that females exert subtle pre-copulatory mate preference based on male UV ornaments and, conditional on the study year and female mating history, some degree of post-copulatory preference for UV-control males leading to differential male fertilization success. This study suggests that UV-based female mate choice may be more widespread than previously thought in vertebrates, and emphasizes the importance of using a study design well adapted to the species reproductive behaviour.
Badiane, A. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carmen Garcia-Custodio, M. del & Carazo, P. & Font, E. (2017) -
1. Over the past 20 years, portable and relatively affordable spectrophotometers have greatly advanced the study of animal coloration.However, the small size ofmany colour patches poses methodological challenges that have not, to date, been assessed in the literature. Here, we tackle this issue for a reflectance spectrophotometry set-up widely used in ecology and evolution (the beam method). 2. We reviewed the literature on animal coloration reporting the use of reflectance spectrophotometry to explore how theminimummeasurable size of a colour patch is determined.We then used coloured plastic sheets to create artificial colour patches, and quantify the relationship between colour patch size and distortions induced by resulting chimeric spectra (spectra contaminated by an adjacent colour patch). Finally, we assessed the generality of our findings using natural colour spots in the lizard Podarcis muralis, as a biologically realistic model. 3. We found a lack of consensus in the literature, frequently resulting in the rejection of valid data or the potential inclusion of unreliable data. As expected, we show that decreasing colour patch size reduces the reliability of reflectance measurements, but also that spectral distortions resulting from chimeric spectra depend on patch/background colour combinations.We found similar results using natural colour spots in P. muralis. 4. We propose a series of steps to avoid the pitfalls described above. First, we provide guidelines on how to identify chimeric spectra and estimate the minimum size of a measurable colour patch in order to avoid them. Second, we show that reducing the probe-to-surface distance allows for more accurate measurements and therefore improves the spectrophotometric assessment of small colour patches. Third, we suggest that, as a general rule of thumb, very small (< 2 mm) colour patches should be avoided when using traditional spectrophotometry methods.
Bády, F. & Vági, B. (2012) -
The common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis LAURENTI, 1768) is the most abundant reptile species in the urban environments of Hungary. Like other lacertids, it is an effective heliothermic thermoregulator, which prefers sunny, open surfaces. This type of habitat could be found in higher numbers in cities and suburbs than in the natural environment of the species, which are rocky outcrops in hilly landscapes. In our research we compared the activity, thermoregulatory behaviour and thermal environment of common wall lizards in an urban and a close-to-natural habitat during three seasons. Thermal preferences of the lizards were measured in a laboratory thermal gradient. Available body temperatures in the field (operative temperatures) were estimated using a digital contact thermometer and hollow copper pipe lizard models. Actual field body temperatures were also measured in captured lizard specimens. The activity of lizards was observed during three days in both habitats in three seasons. According to our results the thermal quality of the two habitats are similar, however, the actual patterns of daily temperature changes are different, and there is great difference between seasons as well. The lizards living in urban environment proved to be efficient and accurate thermoregulators in each season. Population density was higher in the urban habitat, but the activity period was similar between the habitats. Urban environment had a better thermal quality in autumn, but not in the other parts of the year. Higher population density in the urban habitat could be caused by other than thermal factors, such as better food supply or decreased number of competitors and predators.
A fali gyík (Podarcis muralis LAURENTI, 1768) a legtöbb nyakörvösgyíkhoz hason- lóan hatékony, helioterm hőszabályozó, mely számára a napsütötte, nyílt felszínek igen fontos élőhe- lyet képeznek. A városokban, lakótelepeken ezek ugyanúgy rendelkezésre állnak, mint a fali gyík egyes természetes élőhelyein, a középhegységi sziklakibúvások környezetében. Vizsgálatunkban egy városi és egy természetközeli élőhelyen élő gyíkpopuláció termoregulációs környezetét és aktivitását hasonlítottuk össze három évszakban. A gyíkok hőmérsékleti preferenciáját terráriumi kísérlettel mér- tük ki. Mindkét élőhelyen gyíkmodellek segítségével vettük fel a gyíkok által elérhető hőmérséklete- ket, az urbanizált élőhelyen a szabadon élő gyíkok aktivitási testhőmérsékletét is lemértük. Évszakon- ként három napon át vizsgáltuk a gyíkok aktivitását. Eredményeink alapján a két élőhely hőmérsékleti minősége a gyíkok számára nem mutat nagy eltérést. Az urbanizált élőhelyen élő gyíkok hatékony és pontos hőszabályozónak bizonyultak minden évszakban. Az egyedsűrűség a városi élőhelyen lénye- gesen magasabb volt, az aktivitási időszak gyakorlatilag megegyezett. Az urbanizált élőhely hőszabá- lyozási szempontból ősszel kedvezőbb a fali gyíkok számára, de az élőhely jobb hőmérsékleti minő- sége nem általánosítható minden időszakra. A magasabb egyedsűrűségnek egyéb okai is lehetnek, például a jobb táplálékellátottság vagy a versenytársak és a ragadozók hiánya.
Baeckens, S. (2017) -
The epidermal glands of lizards are considered an important source of semiochemicals involved in lizard communication. Many features of the lizard epidermal gland system vary among and within species (e.g., gland number, size, and shape), and some are believed to reflect the degree of intra- and interspecific variation in glandular secretion production, and by extension, the chemical signalling investment of lizards. Traditionally, herpetologists estimate secretion production based on the number of glands or the size of the glands, rather than quantifying the amount of secretion produced. Still, the reliability of these proxies for secretion production has never been validated. Here, I explored the relationship among secretion production (in mass), pore size (surface area, diameter), and gland number in three species of lacertid lizards (Acanthodactylus boskianus, Timon lepidus, Holaspis guentheri), and tested which proxies predicted secretion production variation best, and examined whether the same trend is true for all species. The findings of this study show that the total secretion production of lacertids is highly variable among and within species. Variation in secretion production among-species (but not within-species) could partly be explained by variation in body size. While both measures of pore size were positively related with secretion production, my tests revealed the model with only pore diameter as contributing variable explaining absolute secretion production variation (both within and across species) as the best one. Although gland number appeared a suboptimal estimate for secretion production in the three lacertids under study, only family-wide, multi-species comparative tests counting large within-species sample sizes can provide further insight on the matter.
Baeckens, S. & Briesen, B. (2017) -
Baeckens, S. & Damme, R. van (2018) -
Melanism is the occurrence of individuals that are darker in skin pigmentation than their conspecifics, which is a common colour polymorphism among vertebrates. Due to the pleotropic effects of the POMC gene that is responsible for melanin-based colouration, dark pigmentation often co-varies with a range of other phenotypic traits. Still, not much is known on the link between melanin-based colouration and immunity in lizards. In this study, we examined and compared the immunocompetence and degree of ectoparasite infestation of Podarcis siculus lizards from a fully melanistic population on an islet in the Tyrrhenian Sea, with conspecifics from a ‘normally’-coloured population on the mainland. Our findings show that both males and females from the melanistic population were less parasitized by ectoparasites and had a greater cellular immune response to a phytohemagglutinin injection than normally-coloured conspecifics. This outcome is in line with the “genetic link hypothesis”, which predicts that melanistic individuals will be more resistant to parasites than non-melanistic individuals due to the pleiotropic POMC gene. In addition, we found correlative evidence for a link between ectoparasite load and PHA immune response, but this was only true for males from the normally-coloured population. Immunological data on additional melanistic and non-melanistic populations of Podarcis siculus in the Mediterranean basin would provide us better insight into patterns of co-variation between immunity and melanism in lizards.
Baeckens, S. & Edwards, S. & Huyghe, K. & Van Damme, R. (2015) -
Animals communicate via a variety of sensory channels and signals. Studies on acoustic and visual communication systems suggest that differences in the physical environment contribute to the variety of signalling behaviour, with species investing in those signals that are transmitted best under the local conditions. Whether or not environmental tuning also occurs in chemical communication systems has received much less attention. In the present study, we examined the effect of several aspects of the physical environment on the chemical communication system of lacertid lizards (family Lacertidae). The numbers of femoral pores are used as a proxy reflecting how much a particular species invests in and relies upon chemical signalling. Femoral pores are specialized epidermal structures that function as a secretion channel for the waxy substance produced by glands. In some lacertid species, the secretion carries infochemicals that play an important role in social communication. The number of femoral pores varies considerably among species. We have compiled data on femoral pore numbers for 162 species and tested for the effects of climate and substrate use. After correcting for body size and taking the phylogenetic relationships among the species into account, we found no effect of climate conditions or latitude on species pore numbers. Substrate use did affect pore numbers: shrub-climbing species tended to have fewer femoral pores than species inhabiting other substrates.
Baeckens, S. & Garcia-Roa, R. & Martin, J. & Damme, J. van (2017) -
Lizards communicate with others via chemical signals, the composition of which may vary among species. Although the selective pressures and constraints affecting chemical signal diversity at the species level remain poorly understood, the possible role of diet has been largely neglected. The chemical signals of many lizards originate from the femoral glands that exude a mixture of semiochemicals, and may be used in a variety of contexts. We analyzed the lipophilic fraction of the glandular secretions of 45 species of lacertid lizard species by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The proportions of nine major chemical classes (alcohols, aldehydes, fatty acids, furanones, ketones, steroids, terpenoids, tocopherols and waxy esters), the relative contributions of these different classes (‘chemical diversity’), and the total number of different lipophilic compounds (‘chemical richness’) varied greatly among species.We examined whether interspecific differences in these chemical variables could be coupled to interspecific variation in diet using data from the literature. In addition, we compared chemical signal composition among species that almost never, occasionally, or often eat plant material. We found little support for the hypothesis that the chemical profile of a given species’ secretion depends on the type of food consumed. Diet breadth did not correlate with chemical diversity or richness. The amount of plants or ants consumed did not affect the relative contribution of any of the nine major chemical classes to the secretion. Chemical diversity did not differ among lizards with different levels of plant consumption; however, chemical richness was low in species with an exclusive arthropod diet, suggesting that incorporating plants in the diet enables lizards to increase the number of compounds allocated to secretions, likely because a (partly) herbivorous diet allows them to include compounds of plant origin that are unavailable in animal prey. Still, overall, diet appears a relatively poor predictor of interspecific differences in the broad chemical profiles of secretions of lacertid lizards.
Baeckens, S. & Herrel, A. & Broeckhoven, C. & Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Huyghe, K. & Goyens, J. & Damme, R. van (2018) -
Baeckens, S. & Huyghe, K. & Edwards, S. & Van Damme, R. (2013) -
Animals communicate with conspecifics and other species through an astonishing variety of signals and displays. Which selection pressures and developmental constraints have guided the evolution of the diversity of sending and receiving system through time, has been a much-debated issue for many decades. Studying the evolution of signalling systems may contribute to our understanding of speciation, as the ‘Sensory Drive Hypothesis’ predicts that divergent adaptation in sensory and signalling systems to different environments can cause premating isolation between populations. The effects of the physical environment on the choice of the sensory channel and the characteristics of the signals within sensory channels have been studied extensively for visual and acoustic communication systems. Much less is known on how the signalling environment affects the evolution of chemical communication. In this PhD project, we aim to examine the evolution of the chemosensorial communication system in Lacertidae. In particular, we will investigate the role of the physical environment in shaping the diversity of signalling and receiving systems. A first study would investigate the signalling system by a family-wide comparison of the role of the physical environment in the evolution of femoral pore numbers. Additionally, we will compare femoral gland and pore morphology among lacertid species living in different signalling environments. In a second section, we will examine a number of characteristics of the femoral secretion itself, and compare this among species living in disparate signalling environments. We hypothesize that the amount and the physical properties of the secretion and the composition of the lipid cocktail will vary with aspects of the environment. At the other end of the channel, reptiles possess a vomeronasal system for processing chemical cues. We aim to explore the interspecific variation in this system for environmentally induced bias. On the basis of symmorphosis, we expect to see that species that invest strongly in the production of semiochemicals, will also be best equipped to receive them. We will compare the morphology of the tongue and the Jacobson’s organ among lacertid species. We will test our hypotheses in an explicit phylogenetic context, by drawing a tailored tree from available DNA sequences and considering different models of character evolution. By taking such a comparative approach and correlate interspecific variation in the semiochemicals, the sending system and the receiving system with environmental variables, we’ll try to investigate the role of natural selection in shaping chemical communication in lacertid lizards.
Baeckens, S. & Huyghe, K. & Palme, R. & Van Damme R. (2017) -
Chemical signals are essential for intersexual communication in many animals, including lizards. While faeces have been suggested to contain socially relevant chemical stimuli, epidermal gland secretions are generally believed to be the leading source of chemosignals involved in lizard communication. Early research has shown that sex hormones affect epidermal gland activity, with androgens stimulating gland/pore size and/or gland productivity. However, the functional significance of hormone-induced glandular activity in lizard chemical communication remains unclear. In this study, we manipulated testosterone (T) concentrations in male Podarcis muralis lizards. While T-supplementation did not change pore size, it did increase secretion production substantially. Chemosensory tests showed that female conspecifics tongue-flick at a higher rate and more quickly towards the secretion of males with experimentally increased T levels than towards the secretion of control males, suggesting that females can discriminate between males with dissimilar T levels based on chemical cues of secretion alone. Based on the scent of faeces, however, females were unable to discriminate between males with differential T levels. Also, females reacted more quickly when offered larger amounts of secretion – irrespective of whether secretions were obtained from control or T-increased males. This result indicates that secretion quantity affects chemosignal detectability in Podarcis muralis.
Baeckens, S. & Leirs, W. & Scholliers, J. (2018) -
Baeckens, S. & Llusia, D. & Garcia-Roa, R. & Martin, J. (2019) -
When encountering predators, prey animals often signal their ability to fight or flee to discourage the predator from an attack or pursuit. A key requirement for evolutionary stability of these predator-deterrent signals is that they convey honest information on the prey’s fighting or fleeing performance. In this study, we investigate the enigmatic ‘distress call’ of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus, and test whether it conveys reliable information on an individual’s body size, and bite and sprint performance. Our acoustic analyses revealed a complex spectral structure in the vocalization of P. algirus, showing a wide frequency bandwidth, multiple harmonics, and a marked frequency modulation. This spectral design may allow such calls to be perceived by multiple potential predators, as it was assessed by a literature search comparing the call frequency range with the hearing ranges of P. algirus’ top predators. In addition, we found considerable inter-individual variation in the call design of lizards (‘call signatures’), which was linked with inter-individual variation in body size and maximum bite force, but not with sprint speed (a proxy of escape performance). As a whole, our study supports the hypothesis that the vocalizations of P. algirus lizards have the potential to serve as honest calls to deter predators. Further research on the behavioural response of predators towards lizard calls is essential in order to unravel the true predator deterrence potential of these calls.
Baeckens, S. & Martin, J. & Garcia-Roa, R. & Damme, R. van (2017) -
Animal signals can differ considerably in complexity and composition, even among closely related species. Work on vocal and visual signals has revealed how sexual selection can elaborate signals relevant in mate choice or rival assessment, but few studies have investigated this process in chemical signals. In this study, we correlated chemical signalling diversity and richness with degree of sexual dimorphism in a data set of 60 species of the lizard family Lacertidae. The femoral glands of male lacertid lizards exude waxy secretions, of which the lipophilic fraction is known to function in chemical communication. We determined the composition of the gland secretions using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and calculated the chemical richness (total number of compounds) and the chemical diversity (Shannon–Wiener H’) for each species. We used sexual dimorphism in size, in shape, and a combination of both, as proxies for the intensity of sexual selection acting on each species. Although our data revealed considerable interspecific variation in the composition and complexity of the chemical signals, as well as in sexual dimorphism, we found no evidence for the idea that more elaborate signals arise through intensified sexual selection. We offer a number of conceptual and methodological explanations for this unexpected finding.
Baeckens, S. & Martin, J. & Huyghe, K. & Garcia-Roa, R. & Pafilis, P. & Damme, R. van (2016) -
Animals rely on a variety of signalling systems to communicate with conspecifics. Because the efficacy of a signal (transmission, durability, detectability) may vary depending on the physical environment, Darwinian selection can be expected to cause signalling diversity along an environmental gradient. As opposed to the many studies on the effect of the natural environment on visual and acoustic communication systems, the role of the physical environment in the evolution of chemical signals is far less investigated. Chemical signals are essential for inter- and intrasexual communication in many animals, and lizards represent no exception. In lacertids, the femoral gland secretions are believed to be the main source of chemical signals involved in communication. The major factor determining chemosignal efficacy is thought to be the chemical composition of the femoral secretion, which directly affects the longevity, persistence and detectability of the secretion in the environment. Using phylogenetic comparative methods, we investigated whether and how the natural environment affects the chemical composition of the femoral gland secretions of lacertid lizards. First, we collected femoral gland secretions of 65 lacertid species and analysed their lipophilic chemical composition using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Second, we extracted climate data from the WorldClim and ECMWF database, based on the geographical coordinates of catch- localities of the examined species. A phylogenetic canonical correlations test showed — as hypothesized — a significant correlation between the environment that a species inhabits and the chemical composition of its femoral gland secretions. High proportions of heavy alcohols and fatty acid esters are characteristic for secretions of species from hot and arid environments. In comparison, species from humid, windy and high altitude localities have secretions with higher proportions of aldehydes.
Baeckens, S. & Martin, S. & Garcia-Roa, R. & Pafilis, P. & Huyghe, K. & Damme, R. van (2017) -
1. The signals that animals use to communicate often differ considerably among species. Part of this variation in signal design may derive from differential natural selection on signal efficacy: the ability of the signal to travel efficiently through the environment and attract the receiver`s attention. For the visual and acoustic modalities, the effect of the physical environment on signal efficacy is a well-studied selective force. Still, very little is known on its impact on chemical signals. 2. Here, we took a broad, phylogenetic comparative approach to test for a relationship between animals` signal chemistry and properties of their natural environment. Our study focused on lizards from the Lacertidae family. 3. We sampled 64 species across three continents and determined the lipophilic composition of their glandular signalling secretions using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. For each species, an array of environmental variables of high temporal and spatial resolution was obtained from climate databases. 4. Species varied considerably in the overall richness (number of constituents) of their secretions, as well as in the relative contribution of the major chemical compound classes. Signal richness and the relative contribution of the respective compounds exhibited little evidence of phylogenetic relatedness, suggesting that chemical signals may change very rapidly. Neither insularity nor substrate use affected chemical signal composition, however, we found a strong statistical relationship between the chemistry of the lizards` secretions and aspects of the thermal and hydric environment they inhabit. 5. Species from `xeric` milieus contained high proportions of stable fatty acid esters and high molecular weight alcohols in their glandular secretions, which likely increase the persistence of secretion scent-marks. In contrast, species inhabiting `mesic` environments produced secretions of a high chemical richness comprising high levels of aldehydes and low molecular weight alcohols. This chemical mix probably creates a volatile-rich signal that can be used for long-distance airborne communication. 6. We argue that the observed variation in signal design results from differential natural selection, optimizing signal efficacy under contrasting environmental conditions.
Baeckens, S. & Meester, W. de & Tadic, Z. & Damme, R. van (2019) -
Many animals use their excrements to communicate with others. In order to increase signal efficacy, animals often behaviourally select for specific defecation sites that maximize the detectability of their faecal deposits, such as the tip of rocks by some lizard species. However, the field conditions in which these observations are made make it difficult to reject alternative explanations of defecation site preference; rock tips may also provide better opportunities for thermoregulation, foraging, or escaping predators, and not solely for increasing the detectability of excrements. In addition, we still know little on whether lizard defecation behaviour varies within-species. In this laboratory study, we take an experimental approach to test defecation site preference of Podarcis melisellensis lizards in a standardized setting, and assess whether preferences differ between sexes, and among populations. Our findings show that in an environment where all stones provide equal thermoregulatory advantage, prey availability, and predator pressure, lizards still select for the largest stone in their territory as preferred defecation site. Moreover, we demonstrate that lizards’ defecation preference is a strong conservative behaviour, showing no significant intraspecific variation. Together, these findings corroborate the idea that lizards may defecate on prominent rocky substrates in order to increase (visual) detectability of the deposited faecal pellets.
Baeckens, S. & Scholliers, J. & Damme, R. van (2016) -
Baeckmann, J. (1900) -
Báez Fumero, M. (2002) -
Báez, J. & Monzon-Mayor, M. & Yanes, C. & Del Mar Romero-Aleman, M. & Arbelo-Galvan, J.F. & Puelles, L. (2003) -
This study examines in detail the sequences of morphological differentiation and deduces mode of migration into specific layers of all types of neurons present in the optic tectum of the lizard Gallotia galloti. It complements previous similar work on tectal histogenesis in the chick. It was found that the neuronal population diversity in the lizard tectum can be reduced by developmental analysis to three neuroblast classes, called Types I, II and III. These classes correspond closely to those present in the developing avian tectum. Neurons belonging to each developmental class were characterized by their initial polarity, mode of translocation into the mantle layer and pattern of sprouting of primary axonal and dendritic processes. Each class produced along time a subset of the cell types distinguished in the mature tectum. Some aspects of sauropsidian tectal histogenesis are also common of other vertebrates, suggesting that fundamental mechanisms of tectal neuronal differentiation are conserved in tetrapods. Analysis of evolutive differences of tectal structure points to changes affecting the layering and perhaps the population size of specific cell types. Whereas tectal cell-type homology can be easily fundamented on embryological evidence and seems to be consistent with hodological and, to some extent, functional homology, the periventricular, central and superficial strata of the tectum are heterogeneous in cellular composition in different species and therefore represent analogous, rather than homologous entities.
Báez, M. (1984) -
Báez, M. (1985) -
Die Thermoregulation von Gallotia galloti von Teneriffa wurde im Frühjahr und im Herbst untersucht. Die vorläufigen Ergebnisse weisen darauf hin, daß die Art über ein hohes Maß an thermischer Unabhängigkeit verfügt in bezug auf Substrat- und Lufttemperatur.
Baez, M. (1987) -
Báez, M. (1987) -
Females of Gallotia galloti on the island of Tenerife usually produce 3 to 6 eggs, the exact number being correlated to the size of the female. The present data is based on the study of 39 egg bearing females captured over several years.
Báez, M. (1990) -
Baez, M. (1997) -
Báez, M. & Bravo, T. (1983) -
The study of two speimens of Gallotia simonyi, that were captured on Roque de Fuera (Anaga, Tenerife), has confirmed the presence, up to fairly recent times, of the last population of this species on the island of Tenerife. The mentioned population has been completely exterminated within the last 50 years by man.
Báez, M. & Brown, R.P. (1997) -
Podarcis dugesii is a polymorphic species found on the ecologically-heterogeneous Atlantic island of Madeira. Patterns of geographic variation in size-free body dimensions (body shape), scalation, and size were portrayed on maps with isophene contours. There was no dominant pattern of among-site variation as seen in several other island lizards, although some linear combinations of morphological variables showed evidence of clines towards the east coast. Multivariate statistical techniques were developed to evaluate whether morphological variation contained an ecology-related spatial pattern, after removal of the effects of statistical non-independence of studied populations. Specifically, a partial correlation matrix comparison method provided evidence to support a proposed elevation model of among-site divergence in scalation and body size, with both an alternative rainfall model and spatial non-independence held constant. Similar divergence in scalation has been observed in other lizard species on other island archipelagos as well on some continental areas. The rainfall model was rejected for both body shape and scalation. The degree of within-population polymorphism in body shape and scalation showed no clear geographic trends in general, although the elevation and rainfall models could not be rejected for female scalation.
Báez, M. & Thorpe, R.S. (1985) -
Die geographische Variation von 6 Schuppenmerkmalen der Gallotia galloti von 17 Fundstellen der Insel Teneriffa wurde mit Hilfe der Kanonischen Varianzanalyse untersucht. Es besteht ine signifikante Übereinstimmung in der geographischen Variation der Beschuppung von Männchen und Weibchen. Die Abgrenzung der multivariaten Felder zeigt, daß die geographische Variation der Beschuppung einem Nord-Süd-Klin folgt.
Bafti, S.S. & Anderson, S. & Sharifi, M. & Papenfuss, T. (2009) -
Baha El Din (1992) -
Baha El Din, S. & Attum, O. (2000) -
Baha El Din, S.M. (1995) -
Baha El Din, S.M. (1996) -
Acanthodactylus longipes Boulenger, 1918 wurde vor kurzem in der Sandwüste Nordägyptens erstmals nachgewiesen. Obwohl die Art häufig und weit verbreitet ist, wurde sie bisher wohl stets mit der sehr ähnlichen Art A. scutellatus (Audouin, 1829) verwechselt. A. longipes ist in den Flugsandgebieten (besonders in den Sanddünen) zumindest von Nordägypten die dominante Art der meisten tagaktiven Reptiliengesellschaften.
Baha El Din, S.M. (2001) -
Baha El Din, S.M. (2006) -
Baha El Din, S.M. (2007) -
Es warden zwei morphologisch und ökologisch unterschiedliche Populationen von Eidechsen aus der Acanthodactylus scutellatus-Artengruppe dokumentiert, die bisher als konspezifisch unter dem Namen A. longipes behandelt wurden. Es wird gezeigt, dass beide Populationen in einem großen Arealbereich sympatrisch vorkommen. Die Zugehörigkeit von Tieren aus der Westliche Wüste Ägyptens zu A. longipes wird bestätigt, während Populationen aus östlichen Landesteilen, die bisher ebenfalls als zu A. longipes gehörend angesehen wurden, als neue Art beschrieben wird.
Bahl, A. & Laue, C. & Martens, B. & Pfenninger, M. (1997) -
Die Autoren haben mittels der RAPD-Methode die genetische Variation in 5 Zauneidechsenpopulationen untersucht, wobei drei Populationen westlich der Saale bei Halle nur jeweils 700-1200 m voneiander entfernt lagen, eine weitere östlich des Flusses in 5 km Entfernung und die fünfte Population etwa 60 km entfernt bei Leipzig lebt. Mit verschiedenen multivariaten Verfahren wurde die Variation innerhalb und zwischen den Populationen analysiert. Es ergibt sich, daß die Isolationswirkung der Saale deutlicher ist als die durch eine Entfernung von 60 km und zwei Autobahnen erzeugte Einschränkung des Genflusses, so daß sich der nacheiszeitliche Einwanderungsweg anscheinend noch in der genetischen Ähnlichkeit nachweisen läßt. Auch zwischen den drei nahe benachbarten, aber durch lange bestehende Ackerflächen teilweise isolierten Populationen lassen sich kleine genetische Differenzen aufzeigen, die im Einklang mit mutmaßlichen Isolationsmustern interpretiert werden können. Leider sind die Ergebnisse nur sehr knapp und summarisch dargestellt, so daß eine eingehendere Diskussion auch der methodischen Ansätze nicht möglich ist. Die Autoren weisen insbesondere auf die Bedeutung junger Isolationsfaktoren in der intensivierten Agrarlandschaft hin, doch erscheinen mir aus Sicht des Artenschutzes die dargestellten historisch-geographischen Differenzen wesentlicher, weil sie eine Vorstellung davon vermitteln, welche Vielfalt an historisch entstanden Isolaten sich innerhalb der Arten verbergen lassen. Solche bislang kaum beachtete Vielfalt kann durch Ansiedelaktionismus zur Vermeidung genetischer Verarmung unwiederbringlich zerstört werden.
Bahmani, Z. & Karamiani, R. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Gharzi, A. (2014) -
The first record of the lacertid lizard Apathya cappadocica muhtari from Iran is presented based on five specimens (four males and one female) collected from June to August 2011 from 40 km southwest of Bane, Kurdistan province, western Iran. The specimens were examined based on morphometrics, color pattern and pholidotic characters. The most distinguishing characters of A. c. muhtari are the presence of an undivided and single preanal plate and six longitudinal rows of ventral shields.
Bahmani, Z. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Gharzi, A. (2011) -
During field work in western regions of the Iranian Plateau in the Zagros Mountains, a single specimen belonging to the genus and subgenus Eremias Fitzinger, 1834 was collected from the highlands of Badr and Parishan (at about 2466 m elevation) in south of the city of Qorveh, Kurdistan Province, western Iran (47°, 47’ E; 35°, 04’ N) in July 2010. This is the first record of occurrence of Eremias (Eremias) montanus from Kurdistan Province.
Bahmani, Z. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Gharrzi, A. (2014) -
During field work in western regions of the Iranian Plateau in the Zagros Mountains in September 2010, a single specimen belonging to the genus and subgenus Eremias Fitzinger, 1834 was collected from the protected area of Bijar (at about 1619 m elevation) in north of the city of Bijar, Kurdistan Province, western Iran (47°, 34’ E; 36°, 00’ N).
Baier, F. (2006) -
The climbing patterns of the adult wall lizards are not restricted by the masking paint, whereas those of the juveniles might be influenced. The temperature readings of the painted wall areas were at average 0,61°C lesser than those of the not painted areas. This might have an effect on periods of activity of the juveniles. Additionally, data on the population size and the distribution of Podarcis muralis at the Neckar in Heidelberg are updated.
Baier, F. (2008) -
In Heidelberg fielen in den vergangenen Jahren vermehrt melanistische – schwarze – Exemplare der Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis merremius) auf. Haben sich die Umweltbedingungen am Neckar derart verändert, dass eine schwarze Eidechse einen Selektionsvorteil erlangt? Oder kann das Vorkommen der schwarzen Tiere am Neckar gar nicht durch natürliche Faktoren erklärt werden, weil die Tiere einfach ausgesetzt wurden? Teilnehmer des Heidelberger Life-Science Lab suchten mit molekularbiologischen Methoden nach einer Erklärung für das Phänomen.
Baier, F. & Sparrow, D.J. & Wiedl, H.J. (2009) -
Baierl, E. (2011) -
Am 13.06.2005 wurde am Rio Genal in Andalusien, Spanien, ein Algerischer Sandläufer Psammodromus algirus dabei beobachtet und fotografiert, wie er ein Paarungsrad von Orthetrum chrysostigma erbeutete und fraß.
Baig, K.J. & Masroor, R. (2006) -
A new species of Eremias has been described from the Cholistan Desert of Pakistan. It constitutes the first record of the genus Eremias from the Oriental (Indian) region. The species has been named Eremias cholistanica, after the Cholistan Desert of Pakistan. This striped desert lacerta is not only different from all its congeners in several morphological characteristics but has been collected from an area distant from the previous known range of Eremias.
Baig, K.J. & Masroor, R. & Arshad, M. (2008) -
Present studies are aimed to document the herpetofauna of Cholistan Desert and study its ecology. During the last three years from 2001 to 2003, attempts have been made to collect and observe the amphibians and reptiles in different parts of Cholistan Desert. More than four thousand specimens belonging to 44 species have so far been collected/observed from the study area. Among different collecting techniques adopted for these studies, “Pit-fall” traps and “Hand Picking” showed best results. The voucher specimens have been catalogued and are presently lying with Pakistan Museum of Natural History, Islamabad.
Bailey, S.E. (1969) -
1. Discharges from mechanoreceptors in lizard skin cover the complete range between brief, high frequency bursts and slowly adapting, low frequency discharges. 2. Unimodal “cold units” and bimodal units (responding also to pressure) are both present and respond to rapid cooling of more than 3–5°C. 3. Discharges occur only on warming above 72°C, except on the upper jaw where the threshold is lower. 4. Larger mechanical stimuli and greater cooling both increase initial frequency and slow down adaptation, but initial frequency and adaptation are faster at higher temperatures. 5. Responses to mechanical stimuli applied immediately after cooling do not show the lowered initial frequency shown by later responses but the adaptation slows at once to the rate characteristics of the new temperature. Conversely, responses after warming are inhibited.
Baillie, J.E.M. & Batsaikhan, N. & Eremchenko, V. & King, S. & Munkhbayar, K. & Semenov, D. (2006) -
Bailón, S. (2001) -
Bailón, S. (2004) -
The family Lacertidae is today represented by seven genera at Mediterrranean islands: Acanthodactylus, Algeroides, Lacerta (Archeolacerta included), Ophisops, Podarcis, Psammodromus and Timon (if we accept the validity of this taxon). These genera include 32 different species. The fossil record of lacertid lizards at these islands includes 66 citations from Lower Miocene (Lacertidae sp. From Sardinia) to Historic times. In spite of this relatively large amount, the citations are only from two genera, Lacerta (Archeolacerta included) and Podarcis; 8 present day species: Lacerta cf. viridis (=trilineata) from the Lower Pleistocene and the Holocene of Sicily; L.(Archeolecerta) bedriagae, from the Upper Pliocene of Sardiniaand the Middle Pleistocene of Corsica; Podarcis lilfordi (including probably its ancestor) from the Miocene and Pliocene of Mallorca and Minorca; P.erhardii from the Holocene of Crete; Podarcis pityusensis (including probably its ancestor) from the Pliocene of Ibiza; P.sicula from the Holocene of Corsica and P.tiliguerta from the Middle Pleistocene of Corsica and the Upper Pleistocene of Sardinia, as well as two fossil species, L.siculimelitensis from the Pleistocene s.l. of Malta and the Middle and Upper Pleistocene of Sicily and Lacerta n.sp. from the Middle Pleistocene of Corsica. Finally, a summary of different hypotheses regarding the origin of lacertid lizards at Mediterranean islands is given.
Bailon, S. & Boistel, R. & Bover, P. & Alcover, J.A. (2014) -
Here we describe a new genus and species of Lacertidae, Maioricalacerta rafelinensis, gen. et sp. nov, a large-sized lizard with amblyodont teeth from the early Pliocene (Zanclean) of Mallorca (Balearic Islands, western Mediterranean Sea). The presence of amblyodont teeth separates Maioricalacerta from recent species of Lacertidae. Maioricalacerta differs from the amblyodont lacertids of the European Tertiary (Quercycerta, Escampcerta, Mediolacerta, Pseudeumeces, Dracaenosaurus, Amblyolacerta, and Ligerosaurus) in the anteroposterior and mediolateral widening of the teeth and in the wide lateral wall of the dentary, which is massive, relatively short, and robust. Dracaenosaurus displays a similar morphology of the dentary, but the number of teeth is lower and they are more amblyodont than in Maioricalacerta. The dentition observed in Maioricalacerta suggests that the diet of the species was related to a consumption of hard prey, perhaps molluscs. The length reduction of the dentary constitutes an evolutionary biomechanical advantage to consume this kind of prey as it improves jaw-closing force. However, its movement is likely to have been slower but potentially more accurate. The robustness of the dental structures in Maioricalacerta also contributes to enhance the resistance of the bone against the increased static pressure to which it is subjected during jaw closure. Maioricalacerta is the most Recent amblyodont lacertid known and the only one described from the Pliocene of Europe.
Bajer, K. (2013) -
Bajer, K. & Horváth, G. & Molnár, O. & Török, J. & Garamnszegi, L.Z. & Herczeg, G. (2015) -
Consistent individual differences within (animal personality) and across (behavioural syndrome) behaviours became well recognized during the past decade. Nevertheless, our knowledge about the evolutionary and developmental mechanisms behind the phenomena is still incomplete. Here, we explored if risk-taking and exploration were consistent and linked to different ecologically relevant traits in wild-caught adult male European green lizards (Lacerta viridis) and in their 2–3 weeks old laboratory-reared offspring. Both adults and juveniles displayed animal personality, consistency being higher in juveniles. We found correlation between risk-taking and exploration (suggestive of a behavioural syndrome) only in adults. Juveniles were more explorative than adults. Large or ectoparasite-free adult males were more explorative than small or parasitized males. Juvenile females tended to be more risk-taking than males. Behaviour of fathers and their offspring did not correlate. We conclude that European green lizards show high behavioural consistency and age is an important determinant of its strength and links to traits likely affecting fitness.
Bajer, K. & Molnar, O. & Gergely, H. & Herczeg, G. & Laczi, M. & Török, J. (2009) -
Morphological traits and elaborate colouration may play important roles in inter- and intrasexual communication, but sexual signalling has been little studied in reptiles. We conducted experiments of female choice and male competition in green lizards (Lacerta viridis), a species from which no information on sexual selection is available. We performed 24 mate choice trials using a total of 57 males, and allowed 12 males to compete in all potential pairwise combinations. Correlated aspects of morphology and colour were condensed into principal components. Only the body shape of males predicted the outcome of female choice trials. Females preferred males with longer body and narrower head. However, both morphology and colour seemed important in male competition. Our study species was the green lizard (Lacerta viridis), which has not been studied in this aspect. Our aim was to examine the associations between t.hese traits, the female mating preference, and the outcome of male-male contest. We captured 57 males in 2005, and we measured their morphological and spectral properties. The females chose between the possible mating partners exclusively by visual cues. In the contest trial, 12 males fought with each other in all potential combinations . However, the results revealed that the colouration did not associate with the female mate choice, but there was a strong association between the choice and some morphological characters of males: females preferred males with larger body length and smaller head width. According to thee analyses the height, width and length of the head, UV and blue chroma of the throat, and UV chroma of the abdomen were associated positively with the fighting ability; if the two rival males were more similarly for each other in the case of the above mentioned traits, they were much more aggressive during contest. Our results suggest that the expression of multiple ornamental colouration and morphological traits of green lizard males may serve as inter- and intrasexual signals advertising individual quality honestly.
Korábbi tanulmányokból ismeretes, hogy egyes hüllıfajok esetében az inter- és az intraszexuális kommunikációban szerepet játszhatnak az egyedek morfológiai jellemzıi és a szaporo- dási idıszakban kialakított feltőnı színezeti bélyegei. Vizsgálatunk alanya az e tekintetben még nem kutatott zöld gyík (Lacerta viridis) volt. Célunk volt annak kiderítése, hogy e bélyegek elırejelzik-e a nıstények párválasztási preferenciáját és a hím–hím versengés kimenetelét. 2005-ben az aktivitási idıszakban összesen 57 állatot fogtunk be, és rögzítettük azok morfológiai és spektrális változóit. A nıstények vizuális ingerek alapján választhattak a potenciális szaporodási partnerek közül. A hímek közötti versengés tesztelésekor két–két hím harcolt egymással, az összes lehetséges kombinációban. Eredményeink szerint a nıstények a nagyobb testhosszú hímeket választották gyakrabban, ugyanak- kor a színezet nem játszott szerepet a nıstényválaszban. Az analízisek föltárták, hogy a fejmagasság, a fejszélesség és a fejhossz, valamint a torokfolt relatív kék-UV intenzitása és a hasoldal relatív UV intenzitása pozitívan asszociálódott a versengés kimenetelével. Mindezek azt bizonyítják, hogy a zöld gyík hímek esetében a színezeti illetve a morfológiai tulajdonságok szignálként funkcionálhatnak a párválasztás illetve a hím–hím versengés során, s ezen bélyegek elıre jelezhetik a nıstények párvá- lasztási preferenciáját és a versengések eredményét.
Bajer, K. & Molnár, O. & Török, J. & Herczeg, G. (2010) -
The role of ultraviolet (UV) signals in intraspecific communication has been identified in a number of vertebrate taxa. In lizards, the signalling role of UV has only been shown in male–male competition and male mate choice. Here, we investigated whether male UV colour can be a basis of female association preference in European green lizards (Lacerta viridis), a species where males develop blue nuptial throat colouration with high UV reflectance. We experimentally manipulated the UV colour of male pairs, where the members of the pair did not differ significantly in body length, body weight, head size, throat UV chroma and brightness or throat blue chroma and brightness measured prior to colour manipulation. By providing these pairs of males to females (only visual stimuli could be perceived by the females), we assessed the role of UV in female association preference irrespective of other potentially important visual traits. We found that unmated but receptive females preferred males of higher UV reflectance. Our results show for the first time that UV colour can be an important male signal in female preference in reptiles.
Bajer, K. & Molnár, O. & Török, J. & Herczeg, G. (2011) -
Animal communication through colour signals is a central themein sexual selection. Structural colours can be just as costly and honest signals as pigmentbased colours. Ultraviolet (UV) is a structural colour that can be important both in intrasexual competition and mate choice. However, it is still unknownif aUVsignal alone can determine the outcome of male–male fights. European green lizard (Lacerta viridis) males develop a nuptial throat coloration with a strong UV component. Among males differing only in their manipulated UV colour, females prefer males with higher UV. Here, we experimentally decreased the UV coloration of randomly chosen males from otherwise similar male pairs to test the hypothesis that a difference in UV colour alone can affect fight success during male–male competition. Our results fully supported the hypotheses: in almost 90 per cent of the contests the male with reduced UV lost the fight. Our results show that UV can be an important signal, affecting both female mate choice and determining male fight success.
Bajer, K. & Molnár, O. & Török, J. & Herczeg, G. (2012) -
Background Colour signals are widely used in intraspecific communication and often linked to individual fitness. The development of some pigment-based (e.g. carotenoids) colours is often environment-dependent and costly for the signaller, however, for structural colours (e.g. ultraviolet [UV]) this topic is poorly understood, especially in terrestrial ectothermic vertebrates. Methodology/Principal Findings In a factorial experiment, we studied how available energy and time at elevated body temperature affects the annual expression of the nuptial throat colour patch in male European green lizards (Lacerta viridis) after hibernation and before mating season. In this species, there is a female preference for males with high throat UV reflectance, and males with high UV reflectance are more likely to win fights. We found that (i) while food shortage decreased lizards` body condition, it did not affect colour development, and (ii) the available time for maintaining high body temperature affected the development of UV colour without affecting body condition or other colour traits. Conclusions/Significance Our results demonstrate that the expression of a sexually selected structural colour signal depends on the time at elevated body temperature affecting physiological performance but not on available energy gained from food per se in an ectothermic vertebrate. We suggest that the effect of high ambient temperature on UV colour in male L. viridis makes it an honest signal, because success in acquiring thermally favourable territories and/or effective behavioural thermoregulation can both be linked to individual quality.
Bajer, K. & Molnár, O.R. (2007) -
Bakiev, A.G. (2018) -
Background. The purpose of the work is to clarify the species of turtles, lizards and snakes that P. S. Pallas noted in the Volga river basin and the Volga-Ural inter fluve. Pallas’s data on the reptile fauna of the region are compared with current data Materials an methods. The basis of the study was the analysis of Pallas’s publications. The names of reptiles used by Pallas with their modern names are identified. Results. From the Volga region, Pallas described two species of reptiles that are new to science: “Coluber melanis” (black forest-steppe form of the Vipera berus) and “Lacerta pipiens” (Alsophylax pipiens). From the interfluve of the Volga and the Ural Pallas described two species yet: “Lacerta apoda” (Pseudopus apodus) and “Lacerta mystacea” (Phrynocephalus mystaceus). The great naturalist noted in the Volga region also reptiles, whose modern names are: Emys orbicularis, Phrynocephalus helioscopus, Phrynocephalus guttatus, Phrynocephalus mystaceus, Eremias velox, Lacerta agilis, Natrix natrix, Natrix tessellata, Hierophis caspius, Gloydius halys, Vipera berus, Vipera renardi. At the beginning of the XXI century, one species of turtles, 11 species of lizards and 10 species of snakes reliably inhabit the region. Conclusions. The species of reptiles noted by Pallas, except for the Pseudopus apodus and the Gloydius halys, reliably inhabit the region at present. The data of the Pallas serve as a basis for studying the dynamics of species composition, distribution, abundance and phenology of reptiles in the Volga basin.
Bakiev, A.G. (2022) -
Bakiev, A.G. & Gorelov, R.A. & Klenina, A.A. (2019) -
In different months during 2015-2017, the abundance and sex-age structure of the Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) were studied on two transects. Parallel transects were established in the southeastern part of the cluster area «Burtinskaya steppe» of the Orenburg State Nature Reserve (Russia). The length of each transect was 3 km. The width of the mineralised plowed strip between the transects was 9-11 m. Transect 2 was located in the area burnt in August 2014, while transect 1 was situated in the area burnt in August 2016. In terms of size and external morphological traits, the captured Sand lizards were divided into three groups: juvenile individuals, adult males, and adult females. After measurements, the marked animals were put back to the places of capture. The number and sex-age structure were restored on transects in May June, after the first winter following the fire impact. We found that on transect 1, the species abundance at late April early May 2015 was almost three times higher (18.67 individuals / km) than on transect 2 (6.67 individuals / km). However, at late May 2015, the species abundance on both transects became almost the same (12.67 individuals / km in transect 1 against 11.33 individuals / km in transect 2). The juvenile individuals suffered from the fire influence more than adults. After the 2016 fire (i.e., in mid-May 2017), the proportion of one-year-old individuals was 21.2% of the total number of Sand lizards recorded in transect 1, while it counted 67.3% of the total number of Sand lizards recorded in transect 2, burnt in 2014. We believe that the rapid recovery of the abundance and sex-age structure in the Burtinskaya steppe was associated with the migration of Sand lizards through the mineralised strip separating the burnt and non-burnt transects.
Bakiev, A.G. & Gorelov, R.A. & Klenina, A.A. (2020) -
Nine reptile species inhabited on the five sites in the Orenburgsky State Nature Reserve, these are Emys orbicularis, Eremias arguta, Lacerta agilis, Zootoca vivipara, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Coronella austriaca, Elaphe dione, and Vipera renardi. Lacerta agilis is the only abundant species. Over the last 20-25 years, the abundance of at least three species (Emys orbicularis, Zootoca vivipara, Natrix natrix) has decreased in some clusters of the reserve.
Bakiev, A.G. & Gorelov, R.A. & Klenina, A.A. & Velmovsky, P.V. & Kalmykova, O.G. (2021) -
The information about the northern range boundary of the steppe-runner Eremias arguta (Pallas, 1773) has changed in recent decades. Based on the reliable recordins in 2001-2020 from 12 locations the northern range boundary between Volga and Ural was specified. It runs through the Engelsky District of the Saratov Region, through the Stavropolsky, Kinelsky, Bogatovsky and Borsky Districts of the Samara Region, through the Buzuluksky and Tashlinsky Districts of the Orenburg Region of Russia. The northern limit of the range should be considered the Volga above-floodplain slope in the left-bank part of the Stavropolsky district in Samara region. All specimens encountered had body coloration typical of Eremias arguta deserti (Gmelin, 1789). The locations of steppe-runner are confined to open spaces treeless and without a dense herbaceous vegetation on the southern sandy slopes.
Bakiev, A.G. & Velmosky, P.V. & Gorrlov, R.A. & Kalmykova, O.G. & Khramova, M.A. (2016) -
The report describes the occurrence (observation) of the Steppe Runner Eremias arguta (Pallas, 1773) that took place in the summer of 2016 in Derzhavin Forestry of Buzuzluk Pine Forest National Park (Buzuluk District of Orenburg Region).
Bakker, A. (1988) -
During two days in June 1986 in Polleur (Belgian Ardennes), the following species were observed: Salamandra salamandra terrestris, Triturus alpestris, T. cristatus, T. helveticus, T. vulgaris, Bufo bufo, Rana temporaria, Anguis fragilis and Lacerta vivipara.
In June and July 1986 observations were made on the reptiles and amphibians in the surroundings of a camping in the Perigord (France). Eight species were observed: Rana dalmatina, Alytes obstetricans, Bufo bufo, Podarcis muralis, Lacerta viridis, Natrix maura, Elaphe longissima and Coluber viridiflavus.
Bakó, B. & Korsós, Z. (1999) -
Distribution of 16 amphibian and 15 reptile species of Hungary was mapped in the 10x10 km U.T.M. system, based on data from the literature, museum collections, and our own field surveys. By this method, 36.6 % of the country was covered. A new, nature conservation orientated, ranking system was invented to evaluate the „herpetological value” of a given region, using the distribution maps of the different species. For this purpose, herptile species were grouped in four (amphibians) and five (reptiles) categories of relative abundance, calculated by dividing their number of occurrences by the number of the total observed 10x10 km for the herpetofauna (385 from Hungary`s total 1052). Weighting the different categories (common, abundant, moderately abundant, rare, and very rare), the nominal (theoretical) maximum nature conservation values of 46, 111, and 157 points were resulted for a single U.T.M. square (for amphibians, reptiles, and the total herpetofauna, respectively). Applying this evaluation method to the seven major geographical regions of Hungary, the conservation values did not show correlation to the degree of research in these regions. With regard to the amphibians, three regions have reached the maximum conservation value: the Alpine foothills of westernmost Hungary, the Transdanubian Hills, and the Northeastern Hills. In contrast to this, no region have reached the maximum value with regards to its reptile fauna: the closest is the Great Plain with 95 points (85.5 %). It is also this region which is the most valuable, regarding the total herpetofauna, its research level, however being only 30 %. The qualifying method described here for nature conservation evaluation is useful especially for areas which are already well explored (with high research level). The application can be extended to other (vertebrate and invertebrate) taxa, and the value received for the evaluated region may provide useful indication to the practical nature conservation as well.
Az irodalmi, a közgyőjteményi, valamint terepi megfigyelési adataink alapján elkészí- tettük a magyarországi kétéltő- és hüllıfajok U.T.M. - rendszerő faunatérképeit. Ezek alapján egy új természetvédelmi szempontú értékelési eljárást alkalmaztunk, mely segítségével az ott elıforduló fajok alapján egy régió „herpetológiai természetvédelmi értékét” lehet meghatározni. Ehhez az egyes fajok országos elıfordulási gyakoriságát, a megfigyelési U.T.M. - négyzethez viszonyított relatív gya- korisági kategóriákba osztottuk. A kétéltőeknél négy, a hüllıknél öt gyakorisági osztály felállításával, majd azokhoz súlyfaktorok hozzárendelésével kiszámoltuk egyetlen U.T.M. - négyzet maximális – elméleti – természetvédelmi pontértékét. Magyarország nagytájainak ezzel az eljárással kapott természetvédelmi pontértékei azt mutatták, hogy a kutatottság nincs arányban a területeknek a her- petofaunán alapuló természetvédelmi értékével. A kétéltőfauna alapján három nagy tájegységünk is eléri a maximális természetvédelmi pontértéket (46 pont). A hüllıfauna esetében viszont egyik nagytájunk sem éri el a maximumot (111 pont), legjobban a dunai Alföld közelíti meg 95 ponttal. A teljes herpetofaunára vonatkozó összesített természetvédelmi pontértékek alapján a legértékesebb táj- egységünk a dunai Alföld, amelynek kutatottsága azonban alig 30 %-os. Az alkalmazott természet- védelmi szempontú területminısítı módszer elsısorban jól kutatott területek értékelésére alkalmas. Több taxonra való kiterjesztésével, és együttes értékelésével a gyakorlati természetvédelem számára is felhasználható információt adhat az adott terület faunájáról.
Bakradze, M.A. (1976) -
The new subspecies is fouпd in the mauпtain regions of south-eastern Georgia and northern Armenia. It differs from the nominative form Ьу а much darker соlош of the body upper side and Ьу certain peculiarities of the squamous cover.
Bakradze, M.A. (1977) -
Balázs Attila, V. (2015) -
The Common Lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823), has the largest distribution of all known lizard species. In the European continent the intraspecific phylogeographical pattern of Zootoca vivipara is characterized by seven haplogroups. Several previous studies were published about the phylogenetic relationships of viviparous and oviparous haplogroups of the species, according to them in the Carpathian Basin there are four haplogroups present. Samples were collected from 161 individuals in eighteen locations in the Carpathian Basin, during the collection period some new populations were found at different locations. Two target genes were selected for the phylogenetic analysis: a 429 bp segment of mtDNA, that contains 406 bp from protein-coding cytochrome b and 23 bp from the adjacent Glu-tRNA genes, as well as about 500 bp (depending on the haplotype) of the non-protein-coding 16S rRNA gene. According to the results, there is no evidence to the existence of the connection between the two main distribution areas of clade „F”. A north-south corridor of clade „E” across eastern Hungary and western Romania has recently been suggested, but the distribution area was found discontinuous between Western Europe and the Balkan. The populations studied in the Făgăraş Mountains and Bucegi Mountains were characterised as a new, previously undescribed presumably ancient haplogroup.
Balcells R., E. (1964) -
Baldaccini, N.E. & Maffezzou, F. & Foà, F. (2024) -
Homing abilities of lizards after experimental dislocations have been found to be well developed in several species. Following our preliminary findings in Podarcis siculus, the present paper reports a new series of experiments on homing performances and initial orientation behaviour upon release. For this purpose, three series of releases were performed at increasing distances from the home areas in which the lizards were captured (range 85–245 m). In each series, two groups of lizards were released: the route-based visual cues during displacement were denied to one of them (NVIS), but allowed for the other (YVIS). The results of initial orientation showed that both are significantly homeward oriented at all three distances tested. Male and female YVIS and female NVIS are similarly homeward oriented, while the male NVIS are not. All 74 lizards successfully returned to their respective home areas. Eleven lizards homed on the same day they were released, while most of them homed during the 1st day after release (n = 51) and the rest on the 2nd day (n = 12). The different transport treatments did not influence homing success at the different distances tested. These results seem to support the use of a geocentric pilotage strategy to re-enter home from the release spot. Alternatively, the possibility that P. siculus use a sun compass and a mosaic map to find their way home is also discussed.
Baldo, L. & Riera, J.L. & Mitsi, K. & Pretus, J.L. (2017) -
Compositional variation of the gut microbiota across host allopatric populations can reflect both adaptation and stochasticity since the time of separation. Major factors shaping this variation include the host phylogeographic and demographic history, the microbiota inheritance, environmental inputs and dispersal of bacteria. Here we explored the impact of these factors in driving gut community diversity in seven allopatric populations of the omnivorous lizard Podarcis lilfordi from the Menorcan coastal islets, all descending from an ancestral mainland population. Using 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing, we showed that ‘islet’ and ‘age’ (time since islet separation from mainland) were the only significant variables in microbial community clustering, suggesting a partial islet-restricted diversification following these lizards phylogeography. Despite a significant variation, islets/populations were characterized by a remarkably low bacterial uniqueness (2.4% of total OTUs) and a minor differential enrichment of taxa, indicating a negligible impact of local inputs and important host common constraints. Overall, the extant pattern of similarity/dissimilarity among islets is compatible with partial retention of the ancestral mainland microbial pool, with differences among islets potentially explained by a differential loss of bacteria following population fragmentation and bottlenecks (i.e. ecological drift). While more quantitative data are needed to validate this hypothesis, this study unveils the importance of considering both neutral and niche-driven processes in driving contemporary patterns of gut metacommunity diversity.
Baldo, L. & Tavecchia, G. & Rotger, A. & Igual, J.M. & Riera, J.L. (2022) -
Background. Integrative studies of animals and associated microbial assemblages (i.e., the holobiont) are rapidly changing our perspectives on organismal ecology and evolution. Insular vertebrates provide ideal natural systems to understand patterns of host-gut microbiota coevolution, the resilience and plasticity these microbial communities over temporal and spatial scales, and ultimately their role in the host ecological adaptation. -- Methods. Here we used the endemic Balearic wall lizard Podarcis lilfordi to dissect the drivers of the microbial diversity within and across host allopatric populations/islets. By focusing on three extensively studied populations/islets of Mallorca (Spain) and fecal sampling from individually identified lizards along two years (both in spring and autumn), we sorted out the effect of islet, sex, life stage, year and season on the microbiota composition. We further related microbiota diversity to host genetics, trophic ecology and expected annual metabolic changes. -- Results. All the three populations showed a remarkable conservation of the major microbial taxonomic profile, while carrying their unique microbial signature at finer level of taxonomic resolution (Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs)). Microbiota distances across populations were compatible with both host genetics (based on microsatellites) and trophic niche distances (based on stable isotopes and fecal content). Within populations, a large proportion of ASVs (30–50%) were recurrently found along the four sampling dates. The microbial diversity was strongly marked by seasonality, with no sex effect and a marginal life stage and annual effect. The microbiota showed seasonal fluctuations along the two sampled years, primarily due to changes in the relative abundances of fermentative bacteria (mostly families Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae), without any major compositional turnover. -- Conclusions. These results support a large resilience of the major compositional aspects of the P. lilfordi gut microbiota over the short-term evolutionary divergence of their host allopatric populations (<10,000 years), but also indicate an undergoing process of parallel diversification of the both host and associated gut microbes. Predictable seasonal dynamics in microbiota diversity suggests a role of microbiota plasticity in the lizards’ metabolic adaptation to their resource-constrained insular environments. Overall, our study supports the need for longitudinal and integrative studies of host and associated microbes in natural systems.
Ballesteros Sallas, T. & Degollada, A. (1996) -
Ballesteros Sallas, T. & Degollada, A. (1999) -
Balletto, E- (2005) -
Balletto, E. (1968) -
Balli, A. (1940) -
Balli, A. (1941) -
Balli, A. (1944) -
L’A. ha fatto osservazioni ed ha emesso considerazioni intorno alla svernamento di Rana esculenta Lin., Rana dalmatina Bonp. e Lacerta muralis Laur., prendendone in esame i luoghi e l`epoca, in rapporto al sesso ed all` età degli animali.
Baloutch, M. (1976) -
Balsamo, G. & Avallone, B. & Calabro, D. & Marmo, F. (1995) -
Bamann, T. (2022) -
Bamann, T. (2023) -
Bamann, T. & Aust, I. & Hauser, D. (2021) -
Bamann, T. & Aust, I. & Hauser, D. (2024) -
Bamann, T. & I. Aust (2023) -
Bammerlin, R. & Bitz, A. & Thiele, R. (1996) -
Banchi, A. (1900) -
Băncilă, R. & Arntzen, J.W. (2016) -
Under a documented paleogeographic history of the Ria de Arosa archipelago, northwestern Spain, predictions can be made on the duration and strength of isolation of Podarcis guadarramae lizard populations that were ‘captured’ on the islands when sea-levels rose. We predict that genetic diversity: i) is lower on islands than on the mainland, ii) increases with island size, and iii) decreases with increasing distance from the mainland. We also predict that the population genetic structure across islands and the mainland conforms to a pattern of isolation by distance (iv). To test these hypotheses, we analysed a panel of nine highly polymorphic microsatellite loci. The first (i) hypothesis was corroborated. We discuss our findings in the light of the effects of habitat fragmentation and lizard conservation.
Bancila, R. & Gelder, I. van & Rotteveel, E. & Loman, J. & Arntzen, J.W. (2010) -
We measured the level of fluctuating asymmetry (FA) in head shape, head scalation and femoral pores in two lizard species (Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis hispanica) from 13 islands and 15 mainland localities in the Ria de Arosa archipelago of north-western Spain. Given the recent geological history of the region, the degree of isolation to which lizard populations have been subjected can be ordered along a spatio-temporal gradient, yielding the following hypotheses to be tested: FA will be higher (1) in island populations than in mainland populations; (2) on remote islands than on islands close to the mainland; (3) on small islands than on large islands. Molecular genetic data suggest that P. hispanica is autochthonous in the Ria de Arosa, whereas P. bocagei is a more recent arrival. Therefore, we predict also (4) a higher level of FA in P. hispanica than in P. bocagei. Statistically significant results were obtained for head-shape asymmetry, supporting the second and the fourth hypotheses. With an overall meristic asymmetry index, none of the hypotheses were corroborated, whereas for certain independent meristic traits, the first, the third and the fourth hypotheses were partially supported. Both head shape and meristic traits constitute precise measures of FA, but FA is more convincingly expressed in head shape and in single meristic traits than in overall meristic traits asymmetry. We conclude that FA reflects population isolation and may be a good indicator of developmental instability. It seems worthwhile to test for FA in a landlocked system under environmental and genetic stress, for the purpose of conservation biological assessments.
Bandeira, V.J. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2009) -
Bania, S. (2002) -
Bank, J., Kruyntjens, B. & P. Paulissen (1982) -
During the month of June 1980 the authors observed several species of amphibians and reptiles in Portugal. Notes are given on their habitat. Problems concerning the determination of some species of the genus Podarcis are discussed.
The authors give a description of the herpetofauna of some area´s in Yougoslavia they visited in june 1979. Some attention is given to the habitat of several species. The differences between certain island and mainland populations of some Lacerta- and Podarcis-species are discussed to some extend.
Bannert, B. (1991) -
Es gibt sicherlich verschiedene Möglichkeiten, im Terrarium gehaltene Eidechsen zu überwintern. Der eine schwört auf seinen Keller, der andere auf eine laubgefüllte Grube in seinem Garten. Nun, wem beides nicht zur Verfügung steht, dem kann auch ein Kühlschrank ganz ausgezeichnete Dienste leisten. Freilich ist nicht gemeint, die Eidechsen frei zwischen Wurst und Käse zu betten, vielmehr bedarf es einiger Vorbereitungen. Im wesentlichen stellen sich zur Überwinterung von Eidechsen 4 Fragen: 1. wen? 2. wann? 3. wie? Und 4. wie lange? Auf diese 4 Fragen soll im in diesem Bericht eine Antwort gegeben werden.
Bannert, B. (1992) -
Wild-caught specimens of the highly endangered giant lizard Gallotia simonyi, which is endemic to the Canary Island of Hierro, were examined for sarcosporidian parasites. One of the animals exhibited sarcocysts measutring 540 (range, 400-720) x 170 (range, 130-220) µm in the musculature of its tail. Feeding of these sarcocysts to a laboratory-reared G. simonyi resulted in the excretion of sporulated sporocysts measuring 8.8 (range, 7.8-9.4) x 6.9 (range, 6.2-7.8) µm. Following experimental transmission. I used light and electron microscopy and identified this parasite as Sarcocastis simonyi sp. No., which displays a dihomoxenous life cycle.
Bannert, B. (1993) -
Bannert, B. (1994) -
Die vorliegende Arbeit befaßt sich mit der Morpholigie, Entwicklungsbiologie und Wirtspezifität der bereits beschriebenen Sarcocystis-Arten S. gallotiae, S. stehlinii und S. dugesii sowie neuer zystenbildenden Kokzidien von Halsbandeidechsen der Gattung Gallotia von den Kanarischen Inseln und der Art Podarcis dugesii von Madeira. Die Untersuchung wildgefangener Lacertiden der Arten Gallotia atlantica von Lanzarote, G. simonyi und G. galloti caesaris von Hierro, G. g. gomerae von Gomera und G. g. palmae von La Palma zeigte, daß alle Arten bzw. Unterarten von Sorkosporidien parasitiert werden. Die Morphologie der drei beschriebenen Sarcocystis-Arten und der neuen zystenbildenden Kokzidien wurde licht- und elektronenmikroskopisch untersucht und verglichen. Trotz mehr oder weniger großer Ähnlichkeiten ließen sich die Sarkosporidienarten von G. atlantica und G. simonyi aufgrund morphologischer und weiterer Kriterien, insbesondere der Wirtspezifität, klar abgrenzen und als eigenständige Arten, Sarcocystis atlanticae n. sp. bzw. S. simonyi n. sp. beschreiben. Die Identität der Sarkosporidien aus den auf verschiedenen Inseln lebenden Wirtseidechsen dreier Unterarten von G. galloti, G. g. caesaris, G. g. gomerae und G. g. palmae, kann noch nicht abschließend beurteilt werden. Die in der Schwanzmuskulatur einer wildgefangenen Madeira-Mauereidechse, P. dugesii, gefundenen Gewebezysten, bei denen es sich nach den bisherigen Untersuchungen nicht um Sarkosporidien handelt, werden als zystenbildende Kokzidien der Gattung Besnoitia angesehen. Hinsichtlich des Übertragungsweges dieser Parasiten konnte mit laborgezogenen, parasitenfreien Kanareneidechsen experimentell nachgewiesen werden, daß S. atlanticae, S. simonyi, S. sp. von G. g. caesaris, S. sp. von G. g. gomerae und S. sp. von G. g. palmae einen dihomoxenen Lebenszyklus haben. Die Ergebnisse dieser Arbeit bezüglich der Entwicklung der dihomoxenen Sarkosporidien in der Muskulatur des jeweiligen Zwischenwirtes belegen ein langsames, kontinuierliches Wachstum der Gewebezysten über Jahre. Bei den um den 60. Tag p.i. untersuchten Arten S. gallotiae,S. dugesii und S. atlanticae wurden nur unreife, mit Metrozyten gefüllte Zysten gefunden. Bei allen Arten konnten erst etwa um den 100. Tag p.i. in den jeweils größten Zysten auch Bradyzoiten festgestellt werden. Bei S. gallotiae und S. stehlinii erreichten die Zysten erst nach ca. 3,5 Jahren (1225 bzw. 1231 Tagen p.i. etwa die Größe, wie sie auch aus Wildfängen beschrieben ist. Die Untersuchungen, die zum Auffinden der Schizogonie von S. gallotiae im Zwischenwirt durchgeführt wurden, erbrachten nicht das gewünschte Ergebnis. Schizonten konnten bisher nicht nachgewiesen werden. Von S. atlanticae und S. simonyi wurde die endogene Entwicklung im Endwirt beobachtet. Die Gamogonie beider Arten verläuft in Epithelzellen des Dünndarms ihrer Wirtseidechsen. Wahrend S. atlanticae besonders das vordere Drittel des Dünndarms befällt, konnte für S. simonyi kein bestimmter Dünndarmabschnitt als Infektionsort ermittelt werden. In Übertragungsexperimenten mit parasitenfreien Nachzuchteidechsen verschiedener Arten der Gattungen Gallotia, Lacerta, Podarcis und Psammodromus wurde die Ende- und Zwischenwirtspezifität der dihomexenen Sarkosporidien überprüft. Die Verfütterung von Sarkozysten der acht Sarcocystis-Isolate aus experimentell infizierten Eidechsen führte bei allen getesteten Tieren zur Ausscheidung von Oozysten und Sporozysten. Für keine der untersuchten dihomoxenen Sarkosporidien konnte eine Endwirtspezifität innerhalb der Familie Lacertidae festgestellt werden. Echsen der Gattungen Chalcides und Tarentola, die mit Sarkozysten von S. gallotiae bzw. S. atlanticae gefüttert worden waren, erwiesen sich als unempfänglich für diese Infektionen und schieden keine Oozyten oder Sporozysten aus. Bezüglich der Zwischenwirtspezifität zeigten die einzelnen Sarcozystis-Isolate sehr unterschiedliche Ergebnisse. Die Inokulation verschiedener lacertider Eidechsen mit experimentell gewonnenen Sporozysten führte zum Teil zu sehr unterschiedlich intensiven Muskelzysteninfektionen. Die dihomoxenen Sarkosporidien erwiesen sich innerhalb ihrer eigenen Wirtstiergattung Gallotia im allgemeinen als nur sehr eingeschränkt übertragbar und zeigten die beste Entwicklung in ihrem jeweiligen eigenen natürlichen Zwischenwirt. Die beiden morphologisch sehr ähnlichen Arten S. gallotiae und S. atlanticae waren nur eingeschränkt kreuzübertragbar. Während letztere sich sowohl auf ihre eigene Wirtsart G. atlantica als auch auf G. galloti übertragen ließ, gelang es nicht, S. gallotiae auf G. atlantica zu übertragen. Die elektrophoretische Proteinauftrennung der dihomoxenen Sarkosporidien zeigte hinsichtlich der Musterbildung relativ große Übereinstimmungen. Dennoch wurden auch deutliche Unterschiede sichtbar, die zur Abgrenzung dieser sehr nah miteinander verwandten Parasiten beitragen und im Einklang stehen mit den Ergebnissen der anderen Untersuchungen zu dieser Parasitengruppe. Im Falle der bisher nicht identifizierten Sarkosporidien aus den Unterarten G. galloti spiegelt sich die taxonomisch ebenfalls ungeklärte Situation der Wirtstiere wider. Die Frage nach der geographischen Verbreitung der dihomoxenen Sarkosporidien auf den Makaronesischen Inseln sowie die Frage nach dem sympatrischen Vorkommen dieser Sarkosporidienarten kann erst beantwortet werden, wenn sich die Parasiten von den verschiedenen Wirten und den unterschiedlichen Inseln taxonomisch zuordnen lassen.
Lacertid lizards are known as hosts of coccidian parasites. The life cycles of some of these parasitic protozoa, particularly of the species of the genus Sarcocystis occurring in lizards from the Canary Islands, are presented. These Sarcosporidia exhibit an unusual mode of transmission, which is based on cannibalisrn.
Bannert, B. (1997) -
Bannert, B. (1998) -
The longevity of several lacertid lizard species in captivity is reported. The conditions of keeping, which have been successful throughout many years, are briefly presented.
The lizard species Gallotia atlantica, G. caesaris, G. galloti eisentrauti, and G. stehlini from the Canary Islands and Teira dugesii from Madeira were kept and bred in captivity. Since ecological data concerning the breeding biology of these species are rare, the results of several years of captive breeding are presented. Data were collected from six pairs of G. atlantica during five years. The females laid 1-3 clutches of eggs each year between April and the beginning of September. The first egg clutches of a year contained 2.7 (1-5) eggs and the second egg clutches consisted of 2.5 (1-4) eggs. Third egg clutches were rare and consisted of only 1.7 (1-2) eggs. The baby lizards hatched after 73 (64-87) days. Three pairs of G. caesaris were observed during three years. Between the middle of May and the end of July the females of this species laid one clutch per year containing 3.8 (3-5) eggs. Only one female produced a second clutch during one season. The young hatched after 67 (64- 69) days. Eight pairs of G. g. eisentrauti were observed during seven years. Between the beginning of May and the end of August these females oviposited annually 1-2 clutches, which contained 4.7 (2-9) eggs in the first clutch of a year and 3.4 (2-6) eggs in the second annual clutch. The young hatched after 73 (62-89) days. One pair of G. stehlini was observed over a period of six years. Between June and August this female produced annually one clutch containing 9.8 (5-14) eggs. The young hatched after 80 (75-86) days. Two pairs of Teira dugesii were observed during one year and two pairs during four years. Between the end of April and the middle of August the females produced 1-2 clutches per year with 2.6 (2-3) eggs in the first and 2.1 (1-3) eggs in the second clutch of a year. The incubation period of the eggs was 72 (59-93) days. Furthermore, sizes of hatchlings of all species are presented. Colour patterns of hatchlings of G. g. eisentrauti, G. caesaris, and G. atlantica are described. Observations concerning the raising of the young in captivity are reported.
Bannert, B. & Kühnel, K.-D. (2017) -
In drei Ersatzhabitaten für Zauneidechsen (Lacerta agilis), die im Rahmen von Umsiedlungsmaßnahmen in Berlin angelegt wurden, wurden Strukturelemente eingebracht, die hinsichtlich der verwendeten Materialien, ihrer Größe und ihres Aufbaus große Unterschiede aufwiesen. Im Zuge von Monitoring-Untersuchungen konnte beobachtet werden, dass nicht alle Strukturelemente von den Eidechsen besiedelt wurden. Je nach Ausstattung wurden einige völlig gemieden, während andere deutlich bevorzugt wurden. Nach den bisherigen Beobachtungen wurden strukturreiche Altholzhaufen von den Zauneidechsen am häufigsten besiedelt, während an den steindominierten Strukturen gar nicht oder nur vereinzelt Eidechsen beobachtet werden konnten. Von entscheidender Bedeutung scheint zu sein, ob die angelegten Sonderstrukturen den Eidechsen genügend Deckung bieten. Somit zeigen sich Qualitätsunterschiede bei den Anlagen, die in der Praxis unbedingt mehr Beachtung finden sollten.
Bannert, B. & Lux, E. & Sedlaczek, J. (1995) -
The lizards of the genus Gallotia, which are endemic to the Canary Islands, are studied for their endo- and ectoparasites. The island-dwelling omnivorous lizards harbor protozoan parasites of the genus Sarcocystis which reveal an unusual cannibalistic mode of transmission. Haemogregarine blood parasites of as yet undetermined taxonomic status have recently been found in three Gallotia-species. An undescribed bloodsucking mite of the genus Ophionyssus, which was found on G. galloti from Tenerife, is suspected to be involved in the life cycle on the protozoan blood parasites. Further investigations on the presented parasites concerning their taxonomy, morphology, biology, and ecology are necessary.
Bannert, B. & Mayer, W. & Bischoff, W. (1996) -
Bannert, B. & Mayer, W. & Bischoff, W. (1999) -
Bannert, H. (1994) -
Seit Juni 1992 wurden in Freilandterrarien Perleidechsen (Lacerta Pepita) gehalten. Die Tiere überwinterten auch im Freien, und am 21. September 1994 schlüpften hier 16 Jungtiere unter diesen seminatürlichen Bedingungen.
Bannikov, A.G. (1971) -
Eremias guttulata, Eremias velox, Eremias strauchi, Eremias persica, Eremias regeli, Eremias multiocellata, Eremias nikolskii, Eremias pleskei, Eremias lineolata, Eremias scripta, Eremias intermedia, Eremias nigrocellata, Eremias arguta, Eremias argus, Eremias brenchleyi, Eremias przewalskii, Eremias grammica, Lacerta strigata, Lacerta viridis, Lacerta trilineata, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta parva, Lacerta vivipara, Lacerta taurica, Lacerta brandtii, Lacerta derjugini, Lacerta praticola, Lacerta chlorogaster, Lacerta saxicola, Lacerta caucasica, Lacerta rudis, Ophisops elegans, Takydromus amurensis, Takydromus wolteri.
Bannikov, A.G. (2018) -
Bannikov, A.G. & Darevsky, I.S. & Ishchenko, V.G. & Rustamov, A.K. & Szczerbak, N.N. (1977) -
Банников А.Г. & Даревский И.С. & Ищенко, В.Г. & Рустамов, А.К. & Щербак, Н.Н. (1977) -
Baptista, N. & António, T. & Branch, W.R. (2019) -
Bicuar National Park (BNP) is a protected area in southwestern Angola where biodiversity has been poorly studied. BNP is located on the Angolan plateau on Kalahari sands, in a transition zone between the Angolan Miombo Woodland and the Zambezian Baikiaea Woodland ecoregions. Herpetological surveys were conducted in BNP and surrounding areas, through visual encounter surveys, trapping, and opportunistic collecting of specimens from 2015 to 2018. The regional herpetofauna is described here based on these surveys, literature records, and additional unpublished records. In total, 16 amphibian, 15 lizard, 18 snake, two testudine, and one crocodilian species were observed from the recent surveys, and in combination with historical records the species counts are 21, 36, 32, four, and one species for these herpetofauna groups, respectively. Important observations include the first record of Xenocalamus bicolor bicolor (Günther, 1868), the second records of Sclerophrys poweri (Hewitt, 1935) and of Amblyodipsas ventrimaculata (Roux, 1907), and the fourth record of Monopeltis infuscata (Broadley, 1997) for Angola. Additionally, the type locality of Hyperolius benguellensis (Bocage, 1893) is discussed. A part of the material could not be confidently identified to species level, reflecting the taxonomic uncertainty associated with the Angolan herpetofauna. Fossorial herpetofauna was well represented, reflecting adaptation to sandy soils, the dominant substrate in the area. The likely presence of endemic and poorly known species in BNP reinforces the importance of the park for the conservation of Angolan biodiversity. Further surveys are necessary for a more comprehensive understanding of the park’s fauna and biogeographic affinities, and to improve conservation planning.
Baptista, N.L. & Tolley, K.A. & Bluhm, M. & Finckh, M. & Branch, W.R. (2020) -
The Scaled Sandveld Lizard Nucras scalaris Laurent, 1964 is a poorly known lacertid endemic to north-eastern Angola and is only known from the type series collected more than half a century ago. The original description provided a comprehensive morphological description, but there was a lack of information regarding its evolutionary relationships and habitat associations. A recent discovery of N. scalaris from Cusseque, Bié Province, on the central Angolan plateau provided the opportunity to address some knowledge gaps of this species. A phylogenetic analysis confirmed its distinctiveness at the species level. Despite a limited dataset, the analysis suggests that N. scalaris is sister to N. broadleyi rather than N. lalandii, the latter having been assumed to be the sister species, because of morphological similarity between them. The new record of N. scalaris represents a range extension of more than 350 km to the southwest and extends the elevation range to 1570 m above sea level, compared to previous known localities at about 1 300 m above sea level (Alto Cuílo and Alto Chicapa, in Lunda Sul Province). The specimen also provides new information on live coloration, as well as the habitat association of grassy shrubland that is dominated by geoxylic suffrutices (the so-called ‘underground forests’) characteristic of the Angolan Miombo Woodlands. This new information raises the question whether poor survey data have led to an under-estimation of faunal diversity in this peculiar and overlooked vegetation type, and reinforces the need for further surveys which could highlight the importance of this habitat.
Baptista, R. & do Amaral, J. (2006) -
Bar, A. & Haimovitch, G. & Meiri, S. (2021) -
Barabanov, A.V. (2009) -
Some nomenclature problems of the Eremias (Sauria, Lacertidae) genus are discussed. Aspidorhinus Eichwald, 1841 is shown to be a senior synonym of Dimorphea Eremchenko, 1999 and so should be a valid subgeneric name for the Eremias velox species group. A list of the subgenus’ species is given.
Барабанов А.В. (2009) -
Обсуждаются некоторые номенклатурные проблемы рода Eremias. Показано, что Dimorphea Eremchenko, 1999 - младший синоним Aspidorhinus Eichwald, 1841, поэтому именно последнее название следует использовать в качестве валидного подродового для группы видов Eremias velox. Приведен список видов, входящих в данный подрод.
Barabanov, A.V. & Doronin, I.V. (2020) -
Ilya S. Darevsky co-described 70 taxa (three genera, 46 species, 21 subspecies) in 44 publications belonging to five orders, eight families of amphibians and reptiles during his career in herpetology. Of this number, three taxa are fossil and 57 taxa are currently considered as valid. By the regions where new taxa were discovered Southeast Asia and Western Asia (includes Caucasus and Asia Minor) dominates. The largest number of descriptions was published in the Russian Journal of Herpetology.
Baracsy, Á. (2007) -
Barahona, F. (1996) -
Barahona, F. (1998) -
Barahona, F. & Barbadillo, L. (1997) -
We carried out a morphometric study of the skull throughout postnatal ontogeny in 14 species of Iberian lacertid lizards belonging to the genera Acanthodactylus, Algyroides, Psammodromus, Podarcis, Zootoca, Timon and Lacerta s. latu with the aim of elaborating a key of identification for the studies species. A total of sixty one characters showing interspecific variation are identified. The characters are defined in articulated and disarticulated skulls.
Barahona, F. & Barbadillo, L. J. (1998) -
Intra- und interspecific variation are analysed fpr the post-natal skull of the lacertid lizards Gallotia galloti, Actnhodactylus erythrurus, Algyroides marchi, Lacerta monticola, Lacerta vivipara, Podarcis bocagei, Podarcis hispanica, Podarcis muralis, Psammodromus algirus and Psammodromus hispanicus. Individual variations identified include: the prsence/absence, number and morphology of some structures, mainly in the lacrimal, sclerotic ossicles and macilla; the number and location of foramina and the degree of ossification of some processes in chondrocranial bones. No differences bones. No differences have been found between the sexes with respect to presence and morphology of the bones but some species show sexual dimorphism in the size and robustness of the head and this may be reflected in the individual. The most substantial variations seen are ontogenetic: the appearances of new traits; development of articulations; differences between species in the timing of the stages of development of a given structure; changes in the relative position of some cranial elements; and the degree of calcification or ossification of processes. A total of 63 characters showing interspecific variations are identified. Some have not previously been described while others used in previous studies are redefined here on the basis of new morphological information obtained.
Barahona, F. & Barbadillo, L.J. (1991) -
Barahona, F. & Evans, S.E. & Mateo, J.A. & Garcia-Márquez, M. & López-Jurado, L.F. (2000) -
In the Canary Islands five extant and two extinct giant lacertid lizards belonging to the endemic genus Gallotia are known. A comparative study of the living and subfossil specimens from the Western Canary Islands demonstrates that the extinct giant species Gallotia goliath and Gallotia maxima are synonymous with the living Gallotia simonyi. Characters formerly used in the diagnosis of the extinct species and subspecies fall within the range of intraspecific variation (ontogenetic and individual) of the living species. The only significant difference between living and subfossil populations of G. simonyi is size, and there is strong evidence to suggest that the reduction in size in living populations reflects shorter life expectancy, a factor that should be taken into account in the current conservation projects on this species.
Barahona, F. & López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J. A. (1998) -
We carried out a morphological study of the skeleton throughout the nastnatal ontogeny in Gallotia spp. With the aim of defining characteristics that could be used in the diagnosis and identification of the 5 species that make up this genus. A total of 19 osteological characters showing interspecific variation are identified, some of them have not been previously described, and fifiteen of them also vary during the ontogeny: 1) Arrangement of the posterior projections of the dentary. All juveniles with ventral process longer than dorsal one. Adults of G. caesaris and G. atlantica with projections almost the same size, but G. galloti, G. simonyi and G. stehlini with dorsal process longer than ventral. 2) Crown morphology in the premaxilla. Monocuspid teeth in adult and throughout ontogeny in G. atlantica, G. galloti and G. caesaris, but with some bicuspid/tricuspid teeth in adults of G. stehlini and G. simonyi. 3) Adult tooth number in the premaxilla. 7 in G. casesaris and G. atlantica, up to 8 in G. galloti and more than 8 in G. simonyi and G. stehlini. 4) Crown morphology in the dentary and maxilla. Teeth in juveniles of G. atlantica are monocuspid (a few teeth with an incipient anterior cuspule can appear in posterior positions), while in juveniles of G. galloti, G. caesaris and G. stehlini, only 2 or 3 anterior teeth are monocuspid and/or bicuspid and the remaining teeth are tricuspid. Adults of G. atlantica have more biscuspid teeth than monocuspid teeth, with some tricuspid teeth occasionally posteriorly. G. galloti and G. simonyi have a majority of tricuspid teeth, while G. caesaris has bi- or tricuspid teeth in almost the same proportions. G. stehlini has a majority of multicuspid teeth (4, 5 and 6 cusps) rather than mono-, bi- or tricuspid teeth. 5) Tooth crown with margins divergent in G. stehlini and G. simonyi and in parallel in the remaining species. 6) Margins of the posterodorsal process of the premaxilla parallel except in adult of G. atlantica where the process is an arrow shaped. 7) Frotals are usually paired in Gallotia spp., but there is a tendency towards fusion in adults of G. galloti, G. caesaris, G. atlantica laurae and G. stehlini. 8) Anteromedial process of the pterygoid is straight in all species except in adults of G. atlantica where it is stepped. 9) Pterygoid tooth number. Pterygoid teeth are absent in hatchlings but appear early in postnatal ontogeny. Numbers of pterygoids teeth vary as follows: G. atlantica (0-4), G. stehlini (0-25), G. galloti (0-8), G. caesaris (0-9) and G. simonyi (?-27). 10) Arrangement of the pterygoid teeth. In juveniles of all species pterygoid teeth starts in a row, a condition retained by adults of G. galloti, G. atlantica and G. caesaris. In G. stehlini, further teeth erupt laterally, producing a patch pattern on a bony concretion in the adult. In G. simonyi, a second row erupts in a lateral position, giving a tick-shaped pattern with the medial row longer than the lateral one. 11) Jugal shelf with a medium process in G. galloti, G. caesaris and G. atlantica. Variable in G. stehlini and absent in G. simonyi. 12) Quadratojugal process of jugal absent in G. atlantica and present in the remaining species, although in adults of G. caesaris and G. galloti this process has lost its posterior embayment. 13) Margins of the posterior process of palatine convergent except in G. stehlini where are in parallel. 14) Supratrigeminal process absent in juveniles and present in adults of all species except in G. atlantica and G. caesaris where this character is variable. 15) Retroartiucular process of the articular straight in adults of G. galloti, G. caesaris and G. atlantica but ventrally deflected in adults of G. simonyi and G. stehlini. 16) Infratemporal osteoderms present in subadults and adults of all species except in G. galloti and G. caesaris. 17) Posterolateral process of the clavicle expanded anteriorly in G. galloti and G. caesaris, absent in G. stehlini and variable in G. atlantica and G. simonyi. 18) Axis with a straight neural arch in G. atlantica and higher at the posterior end in adults of remaining species. 19) Depressed skull in large individuals of G. stehlini and G. simonyi, but flat inremaining species.
Baral, S. (2019) -
A species meets its range limit if the climatic condition favourable for the species exceeds its physiological limits or if it is controlled by biotic interaction of competitor or limited by dispersal and demographic stochasticity or gene flow. Not all species can fully exploit the potentially suitable habitat available to it. Only a few may be capable of ranging throughout its suitable habitat while most of the species give up their distribution far before its potential range. Biotic mode of range limitation is very rare. Restricted gene flow contributes to limit the distribution of a species in most cases. A set of environmental variables or a single variable may induce restriction of gene flow into a population thereby limiting the range. With the advent of advanced molecular method and integration of population genetics and landscape study, it has been possible to check various hypothesis of range limit due to gene flow. With this concept, a candidate set of environmental variables to predict the distribution of P. cretensis, a Cretan endemic reptile with no known apparent reason for range limit. The working hypotheses are to know if the species meets its range limit in response to abiotic variable or if the restricted gene flow is contributing towards range limit. An ensemble species distribution approach was used to compare the potential distribution and the realized distribution. The environmental data was converted into appropriate cost raster to determine an accumulated cost distance and resistance distance. The cost distances were correlated with genetic distance calculated using a set multi-loci nuclear microsatellite gene to establish the relationship between environmental cost and gene flow. I found that the present distribution is below the potential range and abiotic variable is not the cause of the range limit. Also, the study did not find any significant relationship between selected variables and gene flow. The environmental variables used was found to be too coarse to have an impact upon the species. Use of micro-habitat scale environmental predictors and introduction of biological interaction and mechanistic models into SDM can help to solve the even curious case of P. cretensis.
Baran, I. (1968) -
Baran, I. (1969) -
Baran, I. (1977) -
Baran, I. (1982) -
Baran, I. (1983) -
In dieser Arbeit wurde aus 71 Inseln, die zwischen Izmir und Bodrum liegen, erstmals gesammelten herpetologisches Material (909 Examplare) taxonomisch untersucht. Darin sind vorläufig insgesamt 16 Arten oder Unterarten festgestellt worden, von denen 1 Frosch-, 1 Schildkröte-, 7 Eidechsen-, und 7 Schlangenarten sind. Wie alle Inselformen zeigen sie keine bemerkenswerten Unterschiede von den in Anatolien lebenden Arten. Ausserdem haben wir von einigen Inseln ungeflecktes Ophisops elegans Material und von anderen einigen gefleckte Eirenis modestus Exemplare gesammelt. Man braucht nochmals ausführliche Arbeiten oder man soll serologische Methoden benutzen, um den taxonomischen Status von beiden Formen zuklären. Für die Unterartgliederung von Cyrtodactylus kotschyi soll man aus dem noch südlichen türkischen Inseln neue und genügendes Material sammeln.
Baran, I. & Atatür, M.K. (1998) -
Baran, I. & Başoğlu, M. (1977) -
Baran, I. & Budak, A. (1978) -
Baran, I. & Gruber, U. (1981) -
A new subspecies of Podarcis muralis from the island Kefken at the Turkish coast of the Black Sea is described. It is characterized by the occurrence of 2 praeocularia, a tendency of forming a small praeoccipital scale and by on an average less scales around midbody than the nominate form. The new subspecies is named Podarcis muralis kefkenensis.
Baran, I. & Kumlutaş, Y. (1999) -
In this study, the material collected from Köyceĝiz Specially Protected Area, and islands in the vicinity of Marmaris were divided into four different populations and examined comperatively from the view point of taxonomic characters. The populations inhabiting the western and eastern sides of the Köyceĝiz Canal are distinctly different from each other regarding their supratemporal stripe characteristics.
Bu çaliflmada Köycegiz Özel Koruma Bölgesi ve Marmaris civar›ndaki adalardan toplanan materyal dört populasyona ayrilarak taksonomik karakterleri karflilafltirmal› olarak incelenmifltir. Sonuç olarak da Köycegiz gölü kanalinin dogu ve bat›s›ndaki populasyonlarin sirt ortasi yanlarindaki (Supratemporal) çizgiler bakimindan birbirlerinden bariz farklilik gösterdikleri tespit edilmifltir.
Baran, I. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Lanza, B. & Sindaco, R. & Ilgaz, C. & Avci, A. & Crucitti, P. (2005) -
Description of the new lacertid Acanthodactylus harranensis from Harran (SE Turkey). The new taxon shares many features in common with A. grandis but differs from it in having the dorsal proximal tail scales smooth or hardly keeled, the 4th supraocular more fragmented and a characteristic dorsal pattern. It is also easily destinguishable from all congeners with no keeling on proximal dorsal caudal scales (A. tristrami, A. orientalis, A. robustus) in having anterior border of the ear opening pectinate, subocular not reaching the mouth (often separated from the lip by a small scale only in A. robustus), ventrals usually arranged in 14 oblique longitudinal rows (instead of 10-12), 4 longitudinal continuous rows of scales on the fingers (instead of 3; rudimentary, discontinuous 4th row sometimes occurs in A. robustus), tail more than 1.5 times the snout-vent distance (at least in the juveniles and subadults), and a different pattern, lacking the two rows of large ocellar or dark markings along the back. The description includes also some juveniles, up to now undescribed and/or unknown within the A. grandis complex and the A. tristrami group. Some data on the ecology and habitat of the new species are given.
Baran, I. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Olgun, K. & Ilgaz, C. & Kaska, Y. (2001) -
The number of herpetological studies about specific regions of Turkey are very limited compared to general herpetological studies. In an attempt to help fill this gap, a total of 89 specimens representing 11 reptile species were collected, for the first time, from two different localities in the vicinity of Silifke, and they were evaluated from the taxonomical point of view.
Baran, I. & Kumlutas, Y. & Taskavac, E. & Avci, A. (2002) -
Die Vorliegende Studie belegt das Vorkommen von Mesalina brevirostris BLANFORD, 1874 in der Türkei. Neun Exemplare (fünf Männchen, vier Weibchen) wurden in Akçakale (Sanliurfa) nahe der türkisch-syrischen Grenze am 6 und 7. Mai 2002 gefangen. Die Pholidosemerkmale der neun Exemplare aus Akçakale ähneln denen, wie sie mehrere Autoren für syrische Tiere angeben. Die Anzahl der Dorsalia-Querreihen ist bei den Exemplaren von Akçakale (49,0 - 57,0; Mittelwert 53,2) deutlich größer als bei Tieren aus dem östlichen und zentralen Syrien (36,0 - 47,0; Mittelwert 40,3). Nach metrischen, meristischen und Farbmuster-Merkmalen sind die neun Exemplare von Südost-Anatolien der typischen Form Mesalina brevirostris brevirostris zuzuordnen.
Baran, I. & Lumlutas, Y. & Kaska, Y. & Türkozan, O. (1994) -
Following examination of the amphibia, reptila and mammalia species which are distributed in the Special Protected Area around Köycegiz-Dalyan, the area`s natural resources were investigated. Establishment of the distribution of these species and their population cases has also been attempted by systemical and periodic investigaitons As a result, 5 frogs. 5 turtles, 11 lizards, 13 snakes and 18 mammal species have been discovered for the first time in this region. Furthermore, measures which must be taken into consideration for protection of these species, especially turtles, are given.
Baran, I., Kumlutaş, Y., Tok, C.V., Ilgaz, C., Kaska, Y., Olgun, K., Türkozan, O. & F. Iret (2004) -
Die Autotren berichten über zwei Aufsammlungen von Amphibien und Reptilien aus dem Gebiet der ostanatolischen Städte Erzurum, Iğdir, Kars und Ardahan. Das Material umfaßt drei Anurentaxa, eine Schildkrötenform, 11 Eidechsen- und 11 Schlangenarten in 172 Exemplaren. Aufgelistete Arten: Bufo viridis, Rana ridibunda complex, Rana camerani, Testudo graeca armeniaca, Phrynocephalus persicus, Eremias pleskei, Eremias strauchi, Lacerta agilis brevicaudata, Parvilacerta parva, Darevskia parvula, Darevskia raddei, Darevskia valentini valentini, Darevskia uzzelli, Lacerta trilineata, Ophisops elegans, Typhlops vermicularis, Eryx jaculus turcicus, Haemorrhois ravergieri, Hierophis schmidti, Platyceps najadum, eirenis modestus, Eirenis punctatolineatus, Coronella austriaca, natrix natrix persa, Natrix tessellata, Vipera wagneri.
Barandun, J. & Kühnis, J. (2000) -
Barandun, J. & Kühnis, J.B. (2001) -
Im vorliegenden Bericht werden die Verbreitung der Reptilienarten, ihre Gefährdung sowie ihre Lebensräume und Förderungsmöglichkeiten in den Kantonen St.Gallen, Appenzell Ausserrhoden und Appenzell Innerrhoden dargestellt. Die Arbeit basiert auf über 2500 weitgehend unsystematischen Beobachtungen von 1978 bis 2001. Die meisten Artnachweise stammen von rund 350 Personen als Ergebnis von Umfragen in den Jahren 1987 sowie 1998 bis 2000. In Gebieten, aus denen kaum Reptilienvorkommen gemeldet wurden, erfolgten stichprobenartige Geländebegehungen. Gegenwärtig kommen im Projektgebiet sechs einheimische Arten vor: Waldeidechse, Zauneidechse, Blindschleiche, Ringelnatter, Schlingnatter und Kreuzotter. Daneben sind sechs fremde, eingeschleppte Reptilienarten verbreitet: Mauereidechse, Ruineneidechse, Würfelnatter, Aeskulapnatter, Kaspische Wasserschildkröte und Rotwangen-Schmuckschildkröte. Die Blindschleiche ist weit verbreitet und häufig. Von der Waldeidechse konzentrieren sich Nachweise auf höhere Lagen. Tiefer gelegene Vorkommen sind oft isoliert und gefährdet. Die Kreuzotter kommt nur in wenigen alpinen Gebieten vor, ist dort aber selten gefährdet. Vorkommen von Zauneidechse und Ringelnatter sind vorwiegend isoliert und klein; die Arten sind daher überall gefährdet. Stark gefährdet ist die Schlingnatter, die nur im Rheintal noch grössere Bestandesreserven aufweist. Entsprechend der Bedeutung und dem Potenzial der Reptilien-Lebensräume wurden Kern-, Förderungs- und Vernetzungsgebiete ausgeschieden.
Baranov, A.S. & Valetzkii, A.V. (1975) -
Barashkina, J.V. (1987) -
Barashkina, J.V. & Kaplin, V.G. (1987) -
Barata, M. & Carranza, S. & Harris, D.J. (2011) -
Atlantolacerta andreanskyi is a very enigmatic lacertid lizard that, according to the most recent molecular analyses, may belong to the tribe Eremiadini. It is a mountain specialist, restricted to areas above 2500 m of the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco with apparently no connection between the different populations. In this respect, the situation in A. andreanskyi is similar to an archipelago, with the different “islands” being represented by mountaintops. As a result of this scenario, a very high level of genetic differentiation is expected between the different populations, although it is not clear how the Pleistocenic glacial cycles might have affected this species. In fact, the relatively large and apparently disjunctive range of A. andreanskyi with populations occurring on isolated mountains suggests it may not be a single species. In order to test these hypothesis 137 specimens of A. andreanskyi were sampled from 5 different populations across the distribution range of the species (431 Km). A total of 2 gene fragments from mitochondrial DNA (12S, ND4) and 5 gene fragments from nuclear DNA (Pdc, Acm4, Cmos, Rag1, MC1R) were amplified. The results of the molecular analyses clearly show that all the populations analyzed present a very high level of genetic differentiation for the mitochondrial markers used and are also differentiated at the nuclear level. The taxonomic, biogeographic and evolutionary implications of these findings are discussed.
Barata, M. & Carranza, S. & Harris, D.J. (2012) -
Background: Atlantolacerta andreanskyi is an enigmatic lacertid lizard that, according to the most recent molecular analyses, belongs to the tribe Eremiadini, family Lacertidae. It is a mountain specialist, restricted to areas above 2400 m of the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco with apparently no connection between the different populations. In order to investigate its phylogeography, 92 specimens of A. andreanskyi were analyzed from eight different populations across the distribution range of the species for up to 1108 base pairs of mitochondrial DNA (12S, ND4 and flanking tRNA-His) and 2585 base pairs of nuclear DNA including five loci (PDC, ACM4, C-MOS, RAG1, MC1R). Results: The results obtained with both concatenated and coalescent approaches and clustering methods, clearly show that all the populations analyzed present a very high level of genetic differentiation for the mitochondrial markers used and are also generally differentiated at the nuclear level. Conclusions: These results indicate that A. andreanskyi is an additional example of a montane species complex.
Barata, M. & Harris, D.J. & Perera, A (2011) -
Barata, M. & Perera, A. & Haris, D.J. & Van Der Meijden, A. & Carranza, S. & Ceacero, F. & García-Muñoz, E. & Gonçalves, D. & Henriques, S. & Jorge, F. & Marshall, J.C. & Pedrajas, L. & Sousa, P. (2011) -
This study reports the observations of 54 species of amphibians and reptiles obtained during four field surveys to Morocco, including the southern and southeastern regions. Our records reveal a notable expansion of the current distribution range for several species especially in the eastern part of the country, highlighting the need for more intensive sampling within this region.
Barata, M. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. (2015) -
Atlantolacerta andreanskyi is a mountain specialist lacertid lizard, restricted to areas above 2400 m of the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco, with apparently no geographic connection between different populations. In a recent molecular study, populations from A. andreanskyi collected across its distribution area were analysed, showing unprecedented levels of genetic differentiation for mitochondrial markers, which were also partially differentiated for nuclear markers. Here we aim to investigate, for the first time, the phenotypic variability of this species, using univariate and multivariate analyses on linear measurements, pholidotic and coloration characters in six populations of A. andreanskyi previously analysed genetically and covering most of its distribution range. The results show that despite the high genetic divergence previously detected, morphological variation among populations was low. Thus, although some genetic lineages could be partially discriminated morphologically at a multivariate level, single diagnostic traits could not be identified, and thus, they can be considered as cryptic lineages. Although the extreme genetic diversity observed supports the existence of six independent entities, more prospecting and analysis of additional populations will be needed to confirm the evolutionary independence of the lineages before their formal description.
Barateli, N. & Gambelaia, M. & Iankoshvili, G. & Tarkhnishvili, D. (2024) -
Head shape plays a crucial role in ecological and evolutionary processes in lizards, and scientists have studied head shape using traditional and 3D geometric morphometrics. Lizards are classic subjects for ecological studies because closely related and ecologically similar species coexist. Sympatric species tend to show higher levels of morphological divergence compared to allopatric species. In this study, we focus on two parthenogenetic Darevskia species (Darevskia dahli and Darevskia armeniaca) that share a maternal species, Darevskia mixta, but have different paternal species (Darevskia portschinskii and Darevskia valentini). We aim to assess the relative importance of morphologically inheritable traits and environmental conditions on head shape in these parthenogenetic species. Specifically, we aim to determine whether local adaptations or intermediate phenotypes between parental species drive head shape variation in parthenogens. To accomplish this, we analyze the head shapes of samples from both parthenogens, their paternal species, and their common maternal species from 3 sites in Georgia. Our study shows that certain aspects of head shape are associated with body size and habitat climate, with high mountain species exhibiting larger and deeper heads with stronger jaws regardless of breeding mode. In addition, both parthenogens exhibit narrower and more elongated jaw areas, flatter mandibles, and thus weaker jaws compared to females of their maternal and paternal species.
Barateli, N. & Tarknishvili, D. & Iankoshvili, G. & Kokiashvili, L. (2022) -
We compared the life history components of small and large-bodied unisexual (Darevskia dahli and Darevskia armeniaca) and bisexual (Darevskia portschinskii, Darevskia valentini, and Darevskia obscura) Caucasian rock lizard species. Research objectives were to determine whether reproductive mode (bisexual or parthenogenetic), female body size, altitude and landscape of the habitat, or interaction of these factors determine the relative investment of energy into a single reproduction, number, and relative size of eggs. The research revealed the differences between two parthenogenetic species and their paternal bisexual lizards. However, the pattern did not coincide for the two studied lineages i.e., parthenogenetic D. armeniaca invests relatively more resources into reproduction than its paternal D. valentini. Simultaneously, reproductive effort of parthenogenetic D. dahli did not differ from its paternal D. portschinskii. Instead, D. dahli tended to produce more but lighter eggs than D. portschinskii. In both cases, the parthenogenetic form tended to follow a r-reproductive strategy, typical for lizards occupying less stable environments than their parental species. However, other interspecific differences such as body size or evolutionary distance shade these differences, and determine the pattern of divergence between a parthenogen and its bisexual relative. In particular, smaller body size constrains increased the reproductive effort, and parthenogenetic species shifted to a balance between egg size and number rather than between resources invested into a single reproduction event and the probability to survive until the next season.
Barateli, N. & Tarknishvilii, D. & Iankoshvili, G. & Kokiashvili, L. & Dvali, N. & Janiashvili, Z. (2021) -
Two species of rock lizards, the parthenogenetic D. dahli and the sexually reproducing D. portschinskii, coexist in a rocky outcrop in an area of ca. 1 ha, in the vicinity of Tbilisi, Georgia; the location has been well-known since the middle 1960s. The population density of the parthenogenetic lizard is five times higher than that of the sexual breeder. We studied the distribution of active lizards in space and time over three consecutive years, during the spring and autumn activity periods, to explore spatial and temporal differ-ences between the species on a fine spatial scale. We studied the influence of temperature, humidity, and quantitative characteristics of the surface and the distance from permanent water source on the spatial distribution of D. dahli and D. portschinskii. Darevskia portschinskii was less dependent on the distance from the water source and more evenly distributed in space and time than D. dahli. Despite potential competitive interactions, the species did not avoid each other on the microhabitat scale, suggesting that the observed ecological differences are not caused by a niche shift. More individuals of the sexual breeder than individuals of the parthenogen were found in suboptimal habitats. This feature may increase the evolutionary success of D. portschinskii in a long-term perspective.
Baratelli, D. & Ghielmi, S. (1994) -
Barbadillo Escrivá, L.J. (1985) -
Two populations of Lacerta monticola cyreni from the sierra de Gredos (Avila, central Spain) have been studies. Eight egg-layings in captivity and one from natural habitat have been analyzed. Nineteen specimens finally hatched with represents a reproductive success of about th 40 %. Egg-laying occurs in July and the clutches range from 3 to 9 eggs, with an average of 5,4 eggs per clutch. Hatching begins around the last days of August and last until the end of September. The newborn females are larger in S.V.L. (snout-vent length) than males. The colour and pattern of the hatchlings is very similar within the same clutch, but these characteristics differ from one clutch to another. The degree of calcification of the eggshells along with the environmental humidity during the period of incubation have proved to be two important factors to take into consideration in order to obtein a high reproductive success.
Barbadillo, L.J. (1983) -
We present the distribution of amphibians and reptiles in Burgos (Spain), expressed by UTM 10x10Km.The situation of the country lake an area with different herpetofauna populations is a very important success; there are european-atlantic herpetofauna and typical mediterranean also.
Barbadillo, L.J. (1987) -
Barbadillo, L.J. (1989) -
Barbadillo, L.J. (2002) -
Barbadillo, L.J. & Barahona, F. (1994) -
Barbadillo, L.J. & Bauwens, D. (1997) -
Males of many lizard species have longer tails than similarly-sized females. We hypothesized that this dimorphism is induced by a longer non-autotomous tail part in males, which is associated with the presence of the copulatory organs at the tail base, and presumably reduces the males` ability to escape predation by tail shedding. A compensatory mechanism would be an increase of total tail length in males, to achieve equal lengths of the autotomous tail part in both sexes. A critical prediction of this `morphological constraint` hypothesis is that the extent of dimorphism in total tail length increases with the magnitude of sexual differences in length of the non-autotomous tail base. We tested this prediction through a comparative study in a small clade of lacertid lizards. Within each of nine species, sexual differences in length of the non-autotomous tail base and in total tail length do not change with body size. All species, except one, exhibit a clear male-biased dimorphism in length of the non-breakable tail base. In all species studied, males have longer tails than females. We used the method of phylogenetically independent contrasts to explore the interspecific relation between dimorphism in length of the tail base and sexual differences in total tail length. Contrary to our prediction, we found no evidence for a positive correlation between the extent of dimorphism in both traits. Thus, constraints imposed by the male copulatory organs on tail autotomy do not seem to be a significant factor in the evolution of dimorphism in tail length in this clade of lacertid lizards.
Barbadillo, L.J. & Bauwens, D. & Barahona, F. & Sanchez-Heraiz, M.J. (1995) -
We hypothesized that the presence of the forked hemipenes, and associated musculature, at the base of the tail in male lizards should constrain the capacity to autotomize the tail. Thus, this hypothesis predicts that the non-autotomous base of the tail should be longer in male than in female lizards. We tested this hypothesis in four species oflacertid lizards. Males have on average one to two non-autotomous vertebrae more than females, and the sexual difference in length of the non-autotomous tail base remains constant over the entire body size range. In addition, the first functional autotomy plane in males is usually located on, or is distal to, the vertebrae from which two hemipenial muscles take origin. These observations support the view that functional demands of the male intromittent organs impose constraints on the abilities of tail autotomy. In a natural population of Lacerta vivipara, the proportion of tail breaks that occurred at very short distances from the base was highest in females, indicating that the small sexual difference in length of the non-autotomous tail part is of functional significance. Total length of the tail was largest in males. This can be interpreted as a compensation for the decline in autotomy capacities at the tail base, such that the length of the autotomous part remains similar in both sexes.
Barbadillo, L.J. & Castilla, A.M. & Borreguero, F. (1987) -
We studied 143 specimens (84 males and 59 females) from a population of A. erythrurus located between the townships of Torrelodones and Hoyo de Manzanares (Madrid province, central Spain). Specimens were captured in successive visits to the study area during 1984 and 1985. For this study, the pertinent measures were SVL and total weight were calculated. In females, the number and diameter of the ovarian follicles and the number, length and width of thre ovidutal eggs were recorded. All data were processed according to sex and corresponding 15-day period.
Barbadillo, L.J. & Lacomba, J.I. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Sancho, V. & López-Jurado, L.F. (1999) -
Barbadillo, L.J. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2000) -
Barbadillo, L.J. & Martínez-Solano, I. (2002) -
The existence of both interspecific and intraspecific morphological and anatomical variation in vertebral intercentra is described for the first time in Lacertidae. A sample of 380 cleared-and-stained specimens of 12 species of lacertid lizards reveals also the presence of thoracolumbar intercentra in Lacertidae, a condition previously reported within Squamata only for the families Xantusiidae and Gekkonidae. The significance of these findings in the context of phylogenetic analyses within Squamata is discussed.
Barbadillo, L.J. & Sánchez-Herraiz, M.J. (1992) -
Barbadillo, L.J. & Sánchez-Herráiz, M.J. & Galán, P. (1993) -
Barbadillo, L.J. & Sanz, J.L. (1983) -
An osteometric analysis of sacral and presacral regions in three species of iberian lizards (Lacerta lepida, L. schreiberi and L. viridis) has been carried out. For this purpose, 11 osteometric vertebral parameters were proposed, and some of the parameters used by other authors were revised. The topographical variation of the most significant parameters were described and several indices based on them were elaborated. Lacerta viridis differs considerably from L. schreiberi and L. lepida, both qualitatively and quantitatively, especially in the positions of the maximum and minimum for each parameter, and in the percentage of general elongation of the presacral vertebrae, more marked in L. viridis than in the other two species. The sexual and ontogenetic variations include qualitative and quantitative differences as well. A greater percentage of elongation of presacral vertebrae exists in the females. There is some sexual correlation of the existence oscillations in certain parameters (for example pre-postzygapophysis distance) along the vertebral axis (L. lepida and L. schreiberi). The relative height of the neurapophysis shows the most important ontogenetic variation. It is progressively enhanced with size. The vertebral widening that occurs in the last presacral zone is more marked in immature individuals. An interspecific vertebral diagnosis (of particular importance in the axis and sacrum) is proposed.
Barbadillo, L.J. Valdemorgo, D.G. & Sánchez-Herraiz, M.J. (1997) -
Barbault, R. (1975) -
Barbault, R. & Mou, Y.P. (1986) -
Within the last twenty years, emphasis has been placed on the quantitative approach to the structure and function of natural populations. Nonetheless, data that document temporal and geographic variation in life histories and demographic patterns among populations and species of European lizards are still very scarce, except for Lacerta vivipara (Pilorge, 1981; Pilorge and Castanet, 1981; Heulin, 1985). Although it is a common and abundant species in central and southern Europe, the wall lizard Podarcis muralis (Laurenti) has been poorly studies from a demographic point of view. If we except a note of Castanet and Roche (1981) about age structure, the only known demographic study is that of Strijbosch et al. (1980) for the northernmost population in the Netherlands. The present study provides data on life history of a population of Podarcis muralis from southwestern France, as a first step of a comparative approach to population dynamics of the species within southern France.
Barbault, R. & Mou, Y.P. (1988) -
A population study of the wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, was conducted from 1979-1981 with occasional surveys until 1985. The study site was a 0.52-ha cemetery. Lizards required 2 yr to reach sexual maturity. An average of two clutches are produced per breeding season (April-July), and clutch size decreases with time. Some older females may produce a third clutch in late July. Clutch size is strongly correlated with female body size. Population size showed little variation throughout this study, and average absolute density (excluding hatchlings) was 531/ha. The 1-yr-old cohort represented between 66% and 71% of the population. Maximum longevity approximates 5 yr.
Barbier, H. (1905) -
Barbosa, D. & Desfilis, E. & Carretero, M.A. & Font, E. (2004) -
Barbosa, D. & Desfilis, E. & Carretero, M.A. & Font, E. (2005) -
Barbosa, D. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2006) -
In many animals, chemical signals play an important role in species recognition and may contribute to reproductive isolation and speciation. The Iberian lizards of the genus Podarcis, with up to nine currently recognized lineages that are often sympatric, are highly chemosensory and provide an excellent model for the study of chemically mediated species recognition in closely related taxa. In this study, we tested the ability of male and female lizards of two sister species with widely overlapping distribution ranges (Podarcis bocagei and P. hispanica type 1) to discriminate between conspecific and heterospecific mates by using only substrate-borne chemical cues. We scored the number of tongue flicks directed at the paper substrate by each individual in a terrarium previously occupied by a conspecific or a heterospecific lizard of the opposite sex. Results show that males of P. bocagei and P. hispanica type 1 are capable of discriminating chemically between conspecifics and heterospecifics of the opposite sex, but females are not. These results suggest that differences in female, but not male, chemical cues may underlie species recognition and contribute to reproductive isolation in these species. The apparent inability of females to discriminate conspecific from heterospecific males, which is not because of reduced baseline exploration rates, is discussed in the context of sexual selection theory and species discrimination.
Barbosa, D. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. & Ribeiro, R. & Carretero, M.A. (2008) -
To gain insight into the role of behaviour in promoting reproductive isolation between Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis morphotype 1, sister species belonging to the P. hispanica species complex, we conducted field and laboratory observations. We studied lizards in rocky outcrops and man-made stone walls in Moledo do Minho (NW Portugal), where these two species occur in syntopy. During the reproductive season of 2006 we video-recorded interactions between free-ranging individuals in a stone wall ca 50 m long. These observations allowed us to document and describe, in natural conditions, the behaviours exhibited during male-female interactions. Interactions were assigned one of the following scores, reflecting increasing levels of courtship behaviour: (1) No response: either lizards remain close or one of them moved away; (2) Displays: one of the lizards exhibited visual displays (e.g. foot-shakes strut) or the male followed the female; (3) The male bites the female tail; (4) The male attempts (abdominal bite) or copulates with female. A comparison of intra- and interspecific interactions revealed that the former received significantly higher scores, indicating that lizards exhibited more courtship towards conspecifics. During the spring of 2008 we used an experimental approach to assess, now under controlled laboratory conditions, whether intraspecific encounters would result in more courtship (i.e. higher courtship scores) than interspecific encounters. Briefly, we staged male- female encounters in glass terraria and video-recorded ensuing interactions for 30 min. Analyses revealed that interaction scores were again significantly higher in intraspecific encounters, and also that males displayed significantly more in the presence of conspecific females. These results suggest that males are able to discriminate conspecific from heterospecific females and stress the importance of behavioural mechanisms in maintaining reproductive isolation in this complex group of lacertids. The study of reproductive interactions within this group adds an important new dimension to ongoing research about their phylogeography.
Barbosa, D. & Font, E. & Ribeiro, R. & Desfilis, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2007) -
Barbour, T. (1913) -
Barbour, T. (1914) -
Barbour, T. & Loveridge, A. (1928) -
Barboza du Bocage, J.V. (1867) -
Barceló y Combis, F. (1876) -
Barisic, F. & Bogdanovic, T. (2011) -
Research of fauna and biology of particular species of reptiles in the area of Nature park Papuk were done in the period from February 2009 to September 2009, in 15 locations. The transect method was used in data gathering on reptiles. The sampled units were measured for length or photographed, and during sampling the environmental parametres were measured. The collected data were entered in the database and with the help of GIS technology distribution maps of particular species on the examined area were made. The species Natrix natrix and Lacerta viridis had the largest quantitative structure. The eudominant species were established to be Natrix natrix, Lacerta viridis, Natrix tessellata and Lacerta vivipara, while the recent species are Vipera berus and Ablepharus kitaibelii. The numerousness of species in the researched area as well as their distribution are the result of various conditions in microhabitats, where species find the optimal conditions for survival. Furthermore, seasonal and daily dynamics were analysed. Daily activities, of species and of individuals, show a decrease of value from morning to afternoon, and as far as seasonal dynamics is concerned, the most intensive period of appearance of reptile is in the period from July to September.
Barkat, H. (2014) -
Our present study is an inventory of Amphibians and Reptiles at region of Beni Aziz. The work involves the index of the presence / absence and distribution. The selected zones are: Mountainous site (Djebels) (Sd), cultivated Site (Sc) and humid Site (Oued El kebir ) (So), different methods are used: listens chants anuran, the dip netting for larvae and tadpoles, search streams, visual inventory of Amphibians and Reptiles, trapping (pot Berber) for lizards and amphibians, search under various objects for snakes. We recorded 7 Amphibians and 15 Reptiles. The results also include the biogeographic status, distribution and habitat. We have elaborated an illustrated catalog of existing species in conclusion.
Barnestein, J.A.M. & González De La Vega, J.P. & Jaén-Velázquez, I. & Román-Requena, F. (2011) -
Barnett, C.L. & Gaschak, S. & Beresford, N. & Howard, B.J. & Maksimenko, A. (2009) -
Assessments of radiation exposure of reptiles may be required in some countries as many species are protected. However, there are few data available for the transfer of radionuclides to them, especially in terrestrial ecosystems, and consequently, no specific peer reviewed reptile data have been used in the derivation of default transfer parameters in the ERICA Tool. Twenty samples of Lacerta agilis (sand lizard) and five of Natrix natrix (grass snake) were collected from two sites within the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone and analysed for Pu-isotopes, 137Cs and 90Sr. Corresponding activity concentrations for soil from the sampling sites were available. These data have been used to derive concentration ratios (CR) (i.e. reptile whole-body fresh weight activity concentration relative to the dry weight activity concentration in soil). CR values for N. natrix tended to be lower than those for L. agilis. The CR values derived in this paper will be used to improve the default values provided within the ERICA Tool. Whole-body activity concentrations determined in the reptile samples were broadly comparable with data available from the same sampling sites for small mammal species.
Baron, G. (1996) -
Barone, R. & Hernandez, A. & Vizcaino, J. (2006) -
Barquin, E. & Nogales, M. & Wildpret, W. (1986) -
From the second author´s data it has arisen that Corvus corax tingitanus –a local raven- has an assorted diet, consuming fruits (and seeds) of Opuntia ficus-barbarica, Chamaecytisus proliferus, Rubia fruticosa, Phoenix canariensis and Plocama pendula. The closest populations of the two latter species live in lower biotopes, warmer than the sampled site which is probably unsuitable for the dispersed plants, despite the fact that the seeds are variable. Gallotia stehlini, an omnivorous lizard, has small territories and therefore eats just local fruits and/or seeds of Rubia fruticosa and Teline rosmarinifolia. Erinaceus algirus, a primarily insectivorous hedgehog, appears to roam to far populations of Plocama. The seed rain does not seem to be a restriction but the establishment of the plants, frequently blocked by the strong environmental contrasts among very close habitats.
Barquin, J. & Martin, A. (1982) -
Gallotia atlantica the endemic lacertid of the eastern Canary Islands Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, has been recorded on the island of Gran Canaria for the first time. From a consideration of the peculiar distribution of the reptile on the latter island together with its interactions with the much larger G. stehlini, the local endemic species, a new hypothesis is proposed to account for the disappearance of the giant lizards of the Canaries. This hypothesis is based on a phenomenum of competitive displacement between species of differing size in which the smaller benefits.
Barreto, F.J.C. (2019) -
Fire is amongst one of the main ecological drivers, particularly in the Mediterranean. Despite being a fire-adapted region, over the last few years we have seen an increase in the frequency of this type of disturbance. In 2017, a large fire in Mata da Margaraça, located in a protected area in central Portugal, created an adequate opportunity to assess its impacts. In this study, we evaluated the effect of fire severity on the abundance, richness, and diversity of reptiles. Richness and diversity were not affected by the cline of fire severity. However, at species-specific level, Psammodromus algirus, a common lizard and habitat generalist Mediterranean species, had its abundance positively affected with the increase of fire severity. The absence of a linear response from this taxonomic group reinforces the need for further studies on post-fire response, key information for the design and implementation of mitigation measures in the future.
Barrett, C. (1999) -
Reptiles are target species in Dutch nature conservation. Monitoring populations serves as a tool for the evaluation of nature conservation. The Dutch reptile monitoring program started in 1993 with 170 plots where reptiles are counted at least seven times a year by volunteers. The monitoring network has been steadily growing since then. During 1999 240 plots have been searched. Plots are located in all major reptile areas over the country. About 80 monitoring trajects are situated in the dunes. Most of these habitats are inhabited by Sand Lizards. In the following text one of the volunteers describes his observations from a dune patch during 1999. Apart from just counting the lizards, he makes photographs, which enables him a recognise the lizards individually.
Barrientos, R. & Megia-Palma, R. (2021) -
Mitigation-driven translocations represent an increasingly common management solution to reduce animal mortality and habitat loss caused by human development. Although they currently outnumber other translocation types, there is a lack of scientific approaches to evaluate the outcome of this management tool. We designed an experimental translocation with two groups of translocated males and two of control males of a small (6-14 g) lizard (totaling 120 individuals). Our results suggest that translocated individuals covered longer distances (53 vs. 18 m) from their respective release points in one month (on average), although this distance diminished over time. Displacing longer distances was associated with a body condition impoverishment and an increase in parasitization by ectoparasites. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that finds a positive relationship between covering longer distances and an increase in the number of mites. This was also explained by the initial mite load that lizards had, suggesting that controlling the infestation by mites is energetically demanding for lizards, being traded by locomotor activity. At least for those individuals in poorer body condition, we recommend the implementation of soft release (gradually accustoming individuals to their new environment by previously releasing them into controlled conditions) and deparasitization before accomplishing a mitigation driven translocation.
Barrioz, M. (2014) -
Barrioz, M. & Voeltzel, V. (2012) -
Barroso, F.M. & Carretero, M.A. & Silva, F. & Sannolo, M. (2016) -
For many years lizard thermal ecology studies have relied on the use of contact thermometry to obtain internal body temperature (Tb) of the animals. However, with progressing technology, an interest grew in using new, less invasive methods, such as InfraRed (IR) pyrometry and thermography, to infer Tb of reptiles. Nonetheless few studies have tested the reliability of these new tools. The present study tested the use of IR cameras as a non-invasive tool to infer Tb of lizards, using three differently body-sized lacertid species (Podarcis virescens, Lacerta schreiberi and Timon lepidus). Given the occurrence of regional heterothermy, we pairwise compared thermography readings of six body parts (snout, eye, head, dorsal, hind limb, tail base) to cloacal temperature (measured by a thermometer-associated thermocouple probe) commonly employed to measure Tb in field and lab studies. The results showed moderate to strong correlations (R2 = 0.84 − 0.99) between all body parts and cloacal temperature. However, despite the readings on the tail base showed the strongest correlation in all three species, it was the eye where the absolute values and pattern of temperature change most consistently followed the cloacal measurements. Hence, we concluded that the eye would be the body location whose IR camera readings more closely approximate that of the animal`s internal environment. Alternatively, other body parts can be used, provided that a careful calibration is carried out. We provide guidelines for future research using thermography to infer Tb of lizards.
Barruel, P. (1947) -
Barsch, H. (1997) -
Bartels, M. (1888) -
Bartenjew, A. & Rjeznikowa, M. (1931) -
Barthe, L. (Coord.) (2014) -
Bartheau, F. & Dusoulier, F. & Gouret, L. & Grosselet, O. (1999) -
Bartheau, F. & Dusoulier, F. & Gouret, L. & Grosselet, O. (2001) -
Bartolomai, R. & Conte, A.L. & Romano, A. (2017) -
Le ARE (Area di Rilevanza Erpetologica) sono aree di particolare pregio crpetologico, formalmente istituitc dalla Societas Herpetologica Itaiica a seguito della valurazione da parte della Commissione Conservazione. Nel `Parco Nazionale dell`Appennino Lucano, Val d`Agri e Lagonegrese` (Basilicata, Italia meridionale) e stato istituita un` ARE nel 2016, la prima per la regione Basilicata. Nel presente contributo si forniscono informazioni sui metodi di campo utilizzati per il censimento erpetologico nell`ARE e i risultati relativi alia ricchezza specifica e difTusone delle specie. Nell`ARE sono stati rilevate 9 specie di anfibi (75% di quelli potenziali) e 13 (65%) di rettili. Rana itaiica, Lissotriton itaiicus, Podarcis siculus e Lacerta bilineata sono specie diffuse e comuni; Triturus carnifex, Pelophylax sinkl. esculentus, Chalcides chalcides, Testudo hermanni, Anguis veronensis e Zamenis lineatus sono invece quelle piu rare. Inoltre, per una popolazione di Bombina pachypus e stato anche awiato un monitoraggio demografico tuttora in corso.
Bartolomei, R. & Conte, A.L. & Romano, A. (2016) -
Barton, R.A. (1969) -
Barts, M. & W.D. Haacke (1997) -
The Reptilia of Tsodilo Hills and adjacent areas are reviewed listing all species known from this region and those that may be presumed to occur there. Ecological data, as far as is known, is provided for each species. Part I deals with tortoises and lizards. Ichnotropis capensis, Ichnotropis squamulosa, Ichnotropis grandiceps, Heliobolus lugubris.
Barun, A. & Simberloff, D. & Budinski, I. (2010) -
We studied impacts of the introduced small Indian mongoose Herpestes auropunctatus on the herpetofauna on six islands in the Adriatic Sea, Croatia, comparing abundances of reptiles and amphibians on three islands with the mongoose to those on three islands without the mongoose. We used four types of sampling surveys: distance-constrained surveys, visual encounter surveys, special searches and accidental trapping. The horned viper Vipera ammodytes and Balkan green lizard Lacerta trilineata were absent from two mongoose-infested islands (Korčula and Mljet) and rare on the third (Hvar); they were common only on the mongoose-free island where they had historically been present (Brač). The European green toad was absent from one mongoose-infested island, where it had historically been present and rare on the other two. It was common on two of the three mongoose-free islands. Other herpetofaunal species were either very scarce or completely absent on the three mongoose-infested islands. Most of these species also occur on the mainland but are already scarce there; some are strictly protected under Appendix II of the Berne Convention. The recent spread of the mongoose to the European mainland suggests the need for urgent control to protect vulnerable herpetofauna.
Bas-López, S. (1980) -
Bas-López, S. (1982) -
The present work studies the herpetological community of Caural (NW, of Spain): biogeography and ecology. Biogeography altitudinal distribution of species, altitudinal variation in abundance of species and stratification reflect a decrease with the altitude bound to climatic reasons and reproductivity in reptiles and to lesser heterogeneity of biotopes in amphibians. There is a greater altitudinal stratification of the subcommunity of amphibians than of reptiles. Ecology: the different physiological requirements of amphibians from land habitats and lizards are reflected in a temporal alternation (seasonal and daily) in the exploitation of the same trophical resource. The snakes occupy anoth trophical level (predators and superpredators) and the tritons live inanother habitat (subaquatic) with different resources and they have a different diet. The problem of interspecific competition is dealt with in two concrete cases: Lacertidae and Triturus. Great differences in size or corporal shape and behaviour permit coexistence but in the opposite case they separate themselves throughout the area, distributing the biotopes according to their physiological preferences. There are cases (Lacerta schreiberi and Triturus boscai) in which there appears to be a spatial displacement due to a diffuse competition with congenital species. One highlights the importance of the habitat in the food diet of some species, which becomes very clear comparing the tritons with the lizards and amphibians from land habitats. One questions the problem of stability and heterogeneity (climatic and spatial), competition and predation as factors which impel and influence the evolution of communities and species. In relation with studies realized in other areas we see that the herpetological community of Caurel represents the transition from the Mediterranean region to the European shore region, very much in accordance with the climatic and botanical characteristics of the zone, where the seasonality plays an important role just as the glaciarism appears to have determined a reptile community evolutionally young.
Bas-López, S. (1984) -
In this work the actual state of knowledge on biogeography of amphibians and reptiles from Galicia is exposed in a synthetical way based upon distributional data gathered during the last 10 years. The geographic distribution of species and communities on latitudinal and altitudinal gradients indicates that climate and biotope are more important factors than latitude or altitude over sea. The presence of relict populations of eurosibirian taxa and the geographic distribution of endemism poit to the importance of climatic alterations during the Quaternary Age (Glaciarism). Thus, the eurosibirian taxa were driven towards Galicia following both the Cornice and the Cantabrian Chain as a mountains, giving rise to sub-especiation or speciation in allopatry of some endemisms. As the present data are poor we must consider our conclusions as a first hypothesis.
Bas, S. (1983) -
Basarukin, A.M. (1983) -
Basile, M. & Vecchio, V. & Soppelsa, O. & Romano, A. (2016) -
Baskiera, S. (2013) -
Viviparous lizard, Zootoca vivipara Lichtenstein 1823 is wide-distributed reptile but data on it’s distribution in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina is scanty. It is the only lacertid lizard with two modes of reproduction, oviparous and ovoviviparous. Two geographically distinct populations were studied. One from Vlašić (BIH; Zootoca vivipara vivipara Von Jacquin, 1787 subspecies) and other from Spačva (CRO; considered to be Zootoca vivipara pannonica Lac & Kluch, 1968). Gravid females were collected from sampling sites, to establish their reproductive mode. They were put into terraria until juveniles hatched. Data on female body mass change (before and after oviposition and parturition respectively), size and mass of both eggs and hatchlings were taken. Population from Vlašić was ovoviviparous while population from Spačva was oviparous. This research also proved heavier and bigger females to have larger clutch size and hatchlings with larger SVL size and bigger mass. Results obtained from t-test showed that that oviparous females have larger clutch size and hatchlings with bigger average SVL size and average body mass.
Baskiera, S. & Jelić, D. (2013) -
Viviparous lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Von Jacquin, 1787), is the only lacertid lizard which is known to have two modes of reproduction. We studied two populations of viviparous lizard: one high mountain population from Mountain Vlašić, Bosnia and Herzegovina and another from lowlands in Spačva, Croatia. Viviparous females from Vlašić (BIH) were collected on grassland on 1800 to 1900 m a.s.l. and are considered to be Zootoca vivipara vivipara (Von Jacquin, 1787), while oviparous females, collected in floodplain forests of Spačva (80 to 90 m a.s.l.; CRO) are considered to be Zootoca vivipara pannonica (Lac & Kluch, 1968). Our main goals were to collect data on reproductive traits of newly discovered oviparous population of viviparous lizard in Spačva, Croatia and comparison to nominal viviparous population. A comparative analysis of reproductive traits (e.g. clutch size, female body size, hatchling body size) of two subspecies were made and most significant difference was in egg incubation period. In oviparous population egg incubation period was 19 to 22 days, while comparatively in viviparous population it lasted only about 30 minutes. Total body length was larger in viviparous females, as expected, as well as the clutch size in oviparous females. Some of the reproductive traits did not result in expected correlation, possibly due to small sample size.
Baskiera, S. & Jelić, D. (2015) -
Baskiera, S. & Vucic, M. & Jelic, D. (2016) -
The sand lizard, Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758, is a small lacertid lizard distributed across Europe and western Asia. The sand lizard also inhabits most of Croatia where two subspecies appear: Lacerta agilis argus Laurenti, 1768 (disputable by some authors) in the northern lowlands and L. a. bosnica Schreiber, 1912 in the Dinaric mountain system. In August 2012, we conducted a population study of L. a. bosnica on Dinara Mountain in Croatia. Dinara is the highest Croatian mountain stretching from Dalmatia (region in Croatia) into Southern Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sexual dimorphism was established in this population but focus of this study was to analyze ecological and microhabitat parameters on locations where individuals were sampled. Collected data were further analyzed to check whether males and females prefer different environmental conditions. During this research we visited high mountain grasslands between 1000 and 1400 m a.s.l. with mean habitat temperature of 25.6 °C and measured 100 individuals of sand lizard. These individuals were divided into three groups: 56 females, 40 males and 4 juveniles. For each individual a set of ecological and microhabitat preferences parameters was taken within minutes from capture: altitude, wind intensity, cloudiness, substrate temperature, air temperature measured at 5 centimeter above ground, air temperature measured at 60 centimeters above ground and cloaca temperature. Five microhabitats were recognized and all individuals were also analyzed according to differences among them. Mean body temperature of adult individuals was 27.7 °C with no significant difference between sexes. Almost 60% of captured individuals had regenerated tails, indicating high predation pressure.
Basoglu, M. (1945) -
Basoglu, M. (1968) -
Başoğlu, M. & Hellmich, W. (1959) -
Başoğlu, M. & Hellmich, W. (1968) -
Başoğlu, M. & Hellmich, W. (1970) -
Basoglu, M. & I. Baran (1977) -
Bassitta Sanchez, M. (2020) -
Bassitta, M. & Alemany, I. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Navarro, P. & Lluch, J. & Jurado-Rivera, J.A. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Eamon, C. (2022) -
The Columbretes archipelago consists of a group of small volcanic islets located in the western Mediterranean near the east of the Iberian Peninsula. Four of its islands are inhabited by the wall lizard Podarcis liolepis, whose populations have been considered vulnerable. The purpose of this study was to assess the level of genetic diversity across the archipelago and the possible evolutionary origin of the Columbretes lizard populations. Additionally, we investigated the evolu-tionary ecology of these populations using a DNA-based metabarcoding approach to characterise both their microbiota and trophic interactions. The genetic results reported very low genetic diversity and corroborated the conspecificity between insular populations and P. liolepis from the mainland (Peñagolosa region). The results of the metabarcoding analyses based on faecal samples were in accordance with an omnivorous ecology, suggesting that specific microbiota communities in the insular populations might be correlated with differences in host ecology and phylogeny. These results are a valuable contribution to the current understanding of the evolution of Columbretes’ lizards and provide important information for conservation management.
Bassitta, M. & Brown, R.P. & Perez-Cembranos, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, C. (2021) -
Genomic divergence was studied in 10 small insular populations of the endangered Balearic Islands lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) using double digest restriction-site associated DNA sequencing. The objectives were to establish levels of divergence among populations, investigate the impact of population size on genetic variability and to evaluate the role of different environmental factors on local adaptation. Analyses of 72,846 SNPs supported a highly differentiated genetic structure, being the populations with the lowest population size (Porros, Foradada and Esclatasang islets) the most divergent, indicative of greater genetic drift. Outlier tests identified ~ 2% of loci as candidates for selection. Genomic divergence-Enviroment Association analyses were performed using redundancy analyses based on SNPs putatively under selection, detecting predation and human pressure as the environmental variables with the greatest explanatory power. Geographical distributions of populations and environmental factors appear to be fundamental drivers of divergence. These results support the combined role of genetic drift and divergent selection in shaping the genetic structure of these endemic island lizard populations.
Bassitta, M. & Brown, R.P. & Pérez‐Cembranos, A. & Pérez‐Mellado, V. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, C. (2021) -
Genomic divergence was studied in 10 small insular populations of the endangered Balearic Islands lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) using double digest restriction‐site associated DNA sequencing. The objectives were to establish levels of divergence among populations, investigate the impact of population size on genetic variability and to evaluate the role of different environmental factors on local adaptation. Analyses of 72,846 SNPs supported a highly differentiated genetic structure, being the populations with the lowest population size (Porros, Foradada and Esclatasang islets) the most divergent, indicative of greater genetic drift. Outlier tests identified ~ 2% of loci as candidates for selection. Genomic divergence‐Enviroment Association analyses were performed using redundancy analyses based on SNPs putatively under selection, detecting predation and human pressure as the environmental variables with the greatest explanatory power. Geographical distributions of populations and environmental factors appear to be fundamental drivers of divergence. These results support the combined role of genetic drift and divergent selection in shaping the genetic structure of these endemic island lizard populations.
Bassitta, M. & Buades, J.M. & Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Terrasa, R.P. & Brown, P. & Navarro, P. & Lluch, J. & Ortega, J. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, C. (2020) -
The phylogenetic relationships among the wall lizards of the Podarcis hispanicus complex that inhabit the south-east (SE) of the Iberian Peninsula and other lineages of the complex remain unclear. In this study, four mitochondrial and two nuclear mark-ers were used to study genetic relationships within this complex. The phylogenetic analyses based on mtDNA gene trees constructed with ML and BI, and a species tree using *BEAST support three divergent clades in this region: the Valencia, Galera and Albacete/Murcia lineages. These three lineages were also corroborated in spe-cies delimitation analyses based on mtDNA using bPTP, mPTP, GMYC, ABGD and BAPS. Bayesian inference species delimitation method (BPP) based on both nuclear data and a combined data set (mtDNA + nuclear) showed high posterior probabilities for these three SE lineages (≥0.94) and another Bayesian analysis (STACEY) based on combined data set recovered the same three groups in this region. Divergence time dating of the species tree provided an estimated divergence of the Galera line-age from the other SE group (Podarcis vaucheri, (Albacete/Murcia, Valencia)) at 12.48 Ma. During this period, the Betic–Rifian arc was isolated, which could have caused the isolation of the Galera form distributed to the south of the Betic Corridor. Although lizards from the Albacete/Murcia and Galera lineage are morphologically similar, they clearly represent distinct genetic lineages. The noteworthy separation of the Galera lineage enables us to conclude that this lineage must be considered as a new full species.
Bassu, L. & Nulchis, V. & Satta, M.G. & Fresi, C. & Corti, C. (2008) -
Bastin, E. (1983) -
Batelli, A. (1880) -
Bateman, P.W. (1995) -
Bates, M.F. (1991) -
New and additional distribution records are given for 12 amphibian, 25 lizard, one amphisbaenian, and five snake taxa from the Cape Province, South Africa. Some of the new records represent large range extensions, whereas others fill in gaps or confirm the occurrence of taxa in the region.
Bates, M.F. (1992) -
The taxonomic status, distribution and ecology of the herpetofauna of the Orange Free State are discussed, based on the examination of 10 096 specimens housed in various southern African museums. The majority of specimens were collected during the years 1972 - 1978 and 1983 - 1992, and are housed at the National Museum, Bloemfontein. A total of 25 amphibian and 95 reptilian (one translocated species) forms have been determined as occurring in the Orange Free State, 12 (three amphibians, nine reptiles) of which are new (or recently published) records for the province. An additional 10 amphibian and 28 reptilian forms have been determined as occurring nearby but extralimitally to the O.F.S., and several of these forms are expected to occur in the province. New distributional records have resulted in the amendment of the ranges of several species. Detailed taxonomic data on new material, including rare species, have been given. Some problem areas in the taxonomy of O.F.S. taxa have been higlighted. An analysis of habit utilization indicated that 84,0% of amphibians and 61,1% of reptiles are terricolous, whereas up to 21,5% of reptiles are rupicolous. The majority of snakes (72,2%) are terrestrial in habits, but 13,9% are fossorial. More than half of all lizards (52,8%) are terrestrial, although 34,6% are rupicolous. A total of six amphibian and 27 reptile forms utilize inactive termitaria as a microhabitat, including several basically terrestrial forms. Snake forms were particularly well represented in termitaria, 60,6% of all forms known from the O.F.S. having been recorded from inactive termitaria. General features of the ecology of O.F.S. amphibians and reptiles have also been discussed. The biogeographical analysis indicated that O.F.S. amphibian forms can be classified into one of nine range clusters (common patterns of distribution), and reptiles into 13 such cluster groups. By testing these classifications by means of a transect through the northern O.F.S. (from eastern to western borders), it was determined that a fairly distinct east-west subtraction of amphibian and reptilian species and subspecies occurs in the O.F.S. Clustering of range boundaries and high species and subspecies diversity at the western and eastern ends of the transect zone suggest dynamic biogeographical situations occurring in those areas - the western group being associated with the transition from grassland to bushveld, and the eastern group associated with the transition from Highveld Grassland to Drakensberg Mountains. The general eastern and western groupings of taxa appear to be associated with the cooler, wetter and mountainous east vs the warmer, drier and lowerlying west, respectively. Despite a great deal of collecting having been conducted in the O.F.S. from 1972 to 1992, an analysis of the number of taxa collected in each quarter-degree unit in `the O.F.S. indicated that additional collecting would be required in order to conduct effectively a mathematically-based biogeographical analysis.
Bates, M.F. (2011) -
Bates, M.F. (2013) -
Bates, M.F. & Branch, W.R. & Bauer, A.M. & Burger, M. & Marais, J. & Alexander, G.J. & Villiers, M.S. de (eds.) (2014) -
Bates, M.F. & Cunningham, M.J. & Turner, A.A. (2014) -
Bates, M.F. & Swardt, D.H. de (1994) -
Battersby, J.C. (1954) -
Battersby, J.C. (1955) -
Battimo, R. & Trocchia, S. & Guerriero, G. (2011) -
Battisti, C. & Luiselli, L. (2011) -
In connectivity conservation and ecological network planning, the selection of focal fragmentationsensitive species represents a priority step. Nevertheless, despite their strategic role, selection of focal species has traditionally been carried out using charismatic and/or non objective approaches. In this way, actions of planning and conservation could be ineffective. Using as a case study Italian reptiles, we apply an expert-based approach for the selection of focal species on the basis of sensitivity to components of habitat fragmentation (habitat area reduction, increase of habitat isolation, increase of edge effect and landscape matrix disturbance) and of intrinsic ecological traits of the species (trophic level, dispersal ability, body size, niche breadth, rarity). The threshold values for each component of fragmentation defined a set of 21 focal species that can be divided into the three macro-components of human-induced habitat fragmentation (HIHF) towards which they show a sensitivity, the suitable spatial scale of populations and relative suitable habitat categories. Among these species, seven can be sampled easily with standard, low-cost field protocols. The selected species largely coincide with the species known in literature as fragmentation-sensitive.
Baudran, C. & Boisonneau, V. & Ricordel, M. (2023) -
Discovery in the Vendée department (France) of the most northern known station of the Ocellated Lizard Timon lepidus in its geographic range -- It was by chance that an individual of the Ocellated Lizard Timon lepidus was observed in March 2018 on the state dunes of the Pays de Monts forest (Vendée, France). The National Forest Office, via it’s network of, has programmed a monitoring of what appears to be a real population of this large, but discreet species. Several individuals have been identified and a further study, more important, should be launched in 2023 to estimate the size of the population.
Bauer, A.M. & Branch, W.R. (2001) -
Bauer, A.M. & Childers, J.L. & Broeckhoven, C. & Mouton, P.L.N. (2019) -
A striking new sandveld lizard of the Nucras tessellata group is described from the Lambert’s Bay Strandveld of the Western Cape Province, South Africa. It is sister to the clade N. livida + N. tessellata, and is phenetically most similar to N. tessellata, from which it differs in its more elongate body and possibly increased number of presacral vertebrae and patternless orange dorsal coloration. The form elegans, described as a species by Andrew Smith (1838), but treated as an infrasubspecific variant by Broadley (1972), also exhibits weak patterning, but is likely a regional color variant. Nucras aurantiaca sp. nov. is the ninth member of the genus found in southern Africa. Its discovery in the well-collected coastal Western Cape suggests that further herpetofaunal surveys are needed in this region, which is threatened by agricultural activity and tourism-related development.
Bauer, A.M. & Günther, R. (1995) -
A complete catalogue is provided for the type specimens of lacertid lizards in the herpetological collection of the Zoological Museum, Berlin, as of December, 1993. The collection contains a total of 514 type specimens, representing 63 taxa, of which 42 are currently regarded as valid at the specific or subspecific level. Types representing an additional four taxa appear to have been lost from the collection. The collections are especially rich in African lacertid types and in historically significant specimens collected early in the Nineteenth Century by Pallas, Eversmann, and Hemprich & Ehrenberg. Also present are the type series of many subspecies of Podarcis lilfordi and P. pityusensis described by Eisentraut.
Bauer, A.M. & Günther, R. & Klipfel, M. (1995) -
A collection of 174 titles, world-wide in scope, and including Peters book, Reise nach Mossambique. Biography and annotated bibliography, and synopsis of species by Aaron M. Bauer, Rainer Günther, and Meghan Klipfel. 714 pages, 114 plates, 9 photographs, maps, index.
Bauer, A.M. & Kennedy, A.M. & Lewis, P.J. & Thies, M.L. & Gabadirwe, M. (2009) -
The Koanaka South locality of western Ngamiland, Botswana, is a Plio-Pleistocene cave deposit. While this deposit has produced numerous reptile and amphibian fossils, a lack of comparative osteological material from the region has hampered taxonomic diagnosis, particularly below the level of family. In addition, the lack of a published account of the modern herpetofauna from the area prevents documenting how the reptile and amphibian faunas have changed over the last two million years. A collecting trip to Koanaka South in the winter dry season (19–30 June 2008) resulted in the collection of 38 specimens of nine species belonging to seven squamate families (Agamidae, Chamaeleonidae, Gekkonidae, Lacertidae, Scincidae, Viperidae). Two additional species, the gekkonid Ptenopus garrulous and the elapid snake Dendroaspis polylepis are documented from sound and sight records, respectively, and one additional lacertid, Heliobolus lugubris, is vouchered by older museum material. No amphibians were observed during the survey. Nine taxa are explicitly reported from the Koanaka Hills or in quarter degree square 2021 Aa for the first time and a range extension and size record are reported for Pedioplanis namaquensis and Ichnotropis squamulosa, respectively. Based on collections made in the surrounding quarter degree square (2021 Aa), as well as published range maps, we provide a list of 39 additional reptiles and amphibians expected, but not yet documented, in the vicinity of Koanaka South.
Bauer, A.M. & Murdoch, M. & Childers, J.L. (2020) -
Data relating to the Sandveld lizards (Nucras) occurring in Namibia, southwest Africa are reviewed. In particular, we investigated records of N. holubi, a chiefly southeastern African species, and attempted to identify recently collected material that could not be assigned to any species currently recognized in Namibia. A phylogenetic analysis of Nucras based on three mitochondrial markers revealed a deep divergence between Namibian Nucras holubi and two presumably conspecific clades from Limpopo Province, South Africa. In addition, the coloration pattern and scalation of the Namibian material differ from those of the eastern forms, supporting its recognition as a separate species. The name Nucras damarana Parker, 1936, long relegated to the synonymy of N. holubi, is here resurrected for this apparently endemic northern Namibian species. Nucras damarana is restricted to the Kunene, Omusati, Oshikati, Kavango, and Otjozondjupa regions of north-central Namibia. A distinctive specimen of Nucras from near Ruacana in the Kunene Region was identified as allied to Nucras broadleyi, a species recently described from southwestern Angola, on the basis of genetic data, although it differs substantially in color pattern. With the addition of N. aff. broadleyi and the resurrected N. damarana to its fauna, as well as the removal of N. holubi from the nation’s species list, four species of Nucras are confirmed to be present in Namibia. Although the conservation status of N. damarana, N. tessellata, and N. intertexta is Least Concern, the uncertain taxonomic status of N. aff. broadleyi precludes a meaningful threat assessment.
Bauer, A.M. & Shea, G. (2006) -
Bauer, L. (2005) -
First week of October 2004 a group of nature lovers visited the southern continental part of Hellas (Greece): the Peloponnesos. Nesos means island. According to mythology Pelops, son of Tantalos, was awarded with an island, in his case a pseudo-island. The Island of Pelops or Pelopo-nesos is almost an island: it is THE original peninsula connected to the Balkans via the original Isthmos! From a biogeographical point of view this peninsula is interesting, with plants and animals found elsewhere in Europe, but also with island characteristics and with some endemical forms. Cyclamens, Peloponnesos Colchicum and several other plants were encountered. The author gives a short travelogue. He describes batrachological and herpetological results of the excur- sions made. The situation of chameleons and slowworms on the peninsula receives some extra concern. Also a list of herpspecies found and photographed is added.
Bauer, L. (2011) -
Bäuerle, A. (1996) -
Etwa 13 Kilometer vom italienischen Festland entfernt und 100 Kilometer nördlich von Rom liegt die Insel Giglio, ein über 21 Quadratkilometer großes Traumziel, das für Taucher und Schnorchler, aber auch für Liebhaber der terrestrischen Fauna und Flora interessant ist.
Baum-Nägel, T. (2025) -
Baum-Nägel, T. & Schneider, A. (2022) -
Baumann, J. (2025) -
Baumann, T. (2002) -
Baumgarten, H.G. & Braak, H. (1968) -
The distribution of catecholamines in the central nervous system of Lacerta viridis and muralis was investigated by means of the method for fluorescence-microscopical detection of catechol- and tryptamines. Most nuclear areas of the mes-, di- and telencephalon receive terminal ramifications of catecholamine-containing neurones, the distribution pattern of which is typical for each nucleus; these neurones originate in the tegmentum (nucleus reticularis mesencephali) and in the hypothalamus (nucleus diffusus tuberis). Apart from these nuclei another paraventricular nucleus (nucleus ependymalis hypothalami) was found to contain catecholamines. The short neurones of this nucleus mainly innervate the nucleus ventromedialis tuberis and the area praeoptica. It is assumed that these neurones also supply the nuclei commissurales of the telencephalon. According to the results of spectrographical and histochemical tests it is assumed that the fluorescent substance in the palaeostriatum of Lacerta is mainly noradrenaline and that the neurones of the nucleus ependymalis hypothalami besides little adrenaline contain huge amounts of primary catecholamines. The possibility of the fluorescent substances acting as transmitters is discussed.
Baumgarten, H.G. & Braak, H. & Wartenberg, H. (1969) -
Difficulties to demonstrate the storage sites of noradrenaline by means of electronmicroscopy in neurones from the nucleus ependymalis hypothalami of Lacerta have been overcome by pretreatment of animals with 5-hydroxydopamine and 5-hydroxydopa. 5-hydroxydopamine which has been shown to act as a false sympathetic transmitter in the peripheral nervous system is specifically taken up and stored by dense core vesicles from the noradrenaline neurones while the storage sites of serotonin containing neurones do not concentrate this pyrogallol analogue. A reduction in the number of dense core vesicles from the serotonin storing neurones might indicate that both substances are capable of releasing tryptamine-like substances besides replacing catecholamines. This observation was confirmed by measurements of the noradrenaline- and serotonin-depletion from the brain following pretreatment of animals with both pyrogallol analogues. Moderate doses of 5-hydroxydopamine and 5-hydroxydopa (100 mg/kg) caused a considerable decrease in the concentration of serotonin whereas the loss of noradrenaline was lower. The effect of the amino acid on the content of brain-monoamines was more pronounced than the effect of the amine itself. It is suggested that a pretreatment of animals with 5-hydroxydopa and/or 5-hydroxydopamine will provide a safe identification of catecholamine storing neurones in the central nervous system — a prerequisite for studies of the organization of synaptic connections from noradernergic and dopaminergic neurones to their effectors.
Baur, B. (1979) -
Baur, H. (1938) -
Baus, M. (2006) -
Bauwens, D. (1981) -
Bauwens, D. (1998) -
Bauwens, D. (1999) -
The life history of an organism is the combination of age-specific survival probabilities and fecundities it displays in its natural environment. Hence, an organism`s life history is characterised by its age and size at maturity, frequency of reproduction, clutch or litter size, size of eggs and hatchlings, and survivorship at different life stages (as embryos, neonates, immatures, adults). Variation in these traits can be studied at different levels: within a population, among populations of a single species, and among different species. I here give an overview of studies that explored life history variation in European lacertid lizards.
Bauwens, D. & Castilla, A.M. (1998) -
Here we address the validity of the assumption of the founder effect hypothesis that considerable phenotypic variation exists in the source population. Specifically, we examine variation in color pattern within the population of Podarcis lilfordi that inhabits Cabrera, the largest island occupied by this species. The population of Cabrera was the putative source for the other islets of the Cabrera archipelago. During the last glaciations, these islands were all connected by land bridges and presumably inhabited by a single population. Because the size of Cabrera exceeds that of the other islets by a factor 10 to 10.000, it seems reasonable to assume that its lizard population retains characteristics of the historical source population. We provide quantitative information on the within population variation in dorsal and ventral coloration and examine three sources of individual differences in coloration: size related shifts, sexual differences, and microgeographic variation. We also develop hypotheses about the re!ationship between the observed within population variation and the among population differences in color patterns.
Bauwens, D. & Castilla, A.M. & Van Damme, R. & Verheyen, R.F. (1990) -
We report here results of a short-term study on field body temperatures and aspects of thermoregulatory behavior of the lizard Lacerta bedriagae . Field work was carried out from 31 May to 3 June 1988 near Haut-Asco (Corsica, France), where L. bedriagae seems to be restricted to altitudes > 1650 m. The study area was between 1750 and 1800 m elevation on the steep east-facing slope of Mont Mufrella.
Bauwens, D. & Diaz-Uriarte, R. (1997) -
Bauwens, D. & Diaz-Uriarte, R. (2001) -
Bauwens, D. & Garland, T. & Castilla, A.M. & Van Damme, R. (1995) -
Oganismal performance abilities occupy a central position in phenotypic evolution; they are determined by suites of interacting lower-level traits (e.g., morphology and physiology) and they are a primary focus of natural selection. The mechanisms by which higher levels of organismal performance are achieved during evolution are therefore fundamentally important for understanding correlated evolution in general and coadaptation in particular. Here we address correlated evolution of morphological, physiological, and behavioral characteristics that influence interspecific variation in sprint speed in a clade of lacertid lizards. Phylogenetic analyses using independent contrasts indicate that the evolution of high maximum sprinting abilities (measured on a photocell-timed racetrack) has occurred via the evolution of (1) longer hind limbs relative to body size, and (2) a higher physiologically optimum temperature for sprinting. For ectotherms, which experience variable body temperatures while active, sprinting abilities in nature depend on both maximum capacities and relative performance levels (i.e., percent of maximum) that can be attained. With respect to temperature effects, relative performance levels are determined by the interaction between thermal physiology and thermoregulatory behavior. Among the 13 species or subspecies of lizards in the present study, differences in the optimal temperature for sprinting (body temperature at which lizards run fastest) closely matched interspecific variation in median preferred body temperature (measured in a laboratory photothermal gradient), in- dicating correlated evolution of thermal physiology and thermal preferences. variability of the preferred body tem- peratures maintained by each species is, across species, negatively correlated with the thermal-performance breadth (range of body temperatures over which lizards can run relatively fast). This pattern leads to interspecific differences in the levels of relative sprint speed that lizards are predicted to attain while active at their preferred temperatures. The highest levels of predicted relative performance are achieved by species that combine a narrow, precise distribution of preferred temperatures with the ability to sprint at near-maximum speeds over a wide range of body temperatures. The observed among-species differences in predicted relative speed were positively correlated with the interspecific variation in maximum sprinting capacities. Thus, species that attain the highest maximum speeds are (1) also able to run at near-maximum levels over a wide range of temperatures and (2) also maintain body temperatures within a narrow zone near the optimal temperature for sprinting. The observed pattern of correlated evolution therefore has involved traits at distinct levels of biological organization, that is, morphology, physiology, and behavior; and trade- offs are not evident. We hypothesize that this particular trait combination has evolved in response to coadaptational selection pressures. We also discuss our results in the context of possible evolutionary responses to global climatic change.
Bauwens, D. & Hertz, P.E. & Castilla, A.M. (1996) -
Bauwens, D. & Hertz, P.H. & Castilla, A.M. (2001) -
Bauwens, D. & Heulin, B. & Pilorge, T. (1987) -
Bauwens, D. & Hordies, F. & Van Damme, R. & Van Hecke, A. (1986) -
Bauwens, D. & Munsters, K. (1997) -
Bauwens, D. & Nuijten, K. & Wezel, H. van & Verheyen, R.F. (1987) -
The role of colour pattern and odiferous cues in sex identification by adult males of the lizard Lacerta vivipara was examined by observing their behavioural response towards several types of introduced conspecific adults. Reproductive males courted both receptive and non-receptive adult females. In addition, they courted introduced males that were painted to mimic the females’ colour pattern, indicating that pigmentation functions in sex recognition. Responses of males to females painted as males, untreated females, and uniformly black painted females were identical. This demonstrates that males do not rely exclusively on colour pattern for sex recognition. Odour does not seem to be important as a secondary factor in stimulating courtship. The possible contribution of other stimuli to sex identification is discussed.
Bauwens, D. & Strijbosch, H. & Stumpel, A.H.P. (1983) -
In this paper we provide quantitative information on the occurrence of larvae and nymphs of the tick Ixodes ricinus in populations of the lizards Lacerta agilis and L. vivipara. Levels of infestation were rather low, at least when compared with those of small mammals and sheep. Hence we suppose that lizards feed only a minor fraction of the total tick population. Differences in tick loads among lizard subpopulations are probably attributable to difference in body size and mobility among the host groups. Ticks exhibit a markedly clumped distribution on the lizards. This distribution pattern fits with the negative binomial distribution. The overdispersed distribution of tick larvae in the field and aspects of the lizards` behaviour are considered as factors which contribute to the observed infestation patterns. Tick larvae were active throughout summer, with peak levels occurring during June-July. Nymphs were most numerous during May-June but almost absent during the summer months. Almost always ticks were attached near the lizards` forelimbs. Possible mortality resulting from tick infestation does not contribute significantly to the overall lizard mortality. Hence, these ectoparasites seem to have but a minor impact on the lizard populations. Differences in tick loads among lizard subpopulations are probably attributable to difference in body size and mobility among the host groups. Ticks exhibit a markedly clumped distribution on the lizards. This distribution pattern fits with the negative binomial distribution. The overdispersed distribution of tick larvae in the field and aspects of the lizards` behaviour are considered as factors which contribute to the observed infestation patterns. Tick larvae were active throughout summer, with peak levels occurring during June-July. Nymphs were most numerous during May-June but almost absent during the summer months. Almost always ticks were attached near the lizards` forelimbs. Possible mortality resulting from tick infestation does not contribute significantly to the overall lizard mortality. Hence, these ectoparasites seem to have but a minor impact on the lizard populations.
Bauwens, D. & Thoen, C. (1981) -
(1) We studied the escape tactics and the vulnerability to predation of reproducing and non-reproducing common lizards, Lacerta vivipara. (2) Observations on the escape behaviour of lizards in a field population indicated that gravid females allow a human predator to approach closer and that they flee less far than their non-reproducing conspecifics. This confirms the prediction, based on the graphical model of Vitt & Congdon (1978), that during pregnancy female L. vivipara should shift their escape tactics toward a longer application of crypsis. (3) Gravid females are hampered in locomotion by the weight of the clutch and hence are probably poorly efficient in escaping predation by running speed. (4) Our capture rates of males and gravid females were not different, but an inexperienced observer captured males more frequently than females. These data together with information on the diet of a natural predator and on the mortality rates of adult lizards, suggest that females are not highly vulnerable to predation during pregnancy. (5) We argue that current information in the literature does not show that reproducing lizards suffer high predation rates. (6) The observed shift in escape behaviour of reproducing L. vivipara is considered as adaptive with regard to their high relative clutch mass and their live-bearing habits.
The number of transverse rows of ventral scales differs between male and female Lacerta vivipara JACQUIN. The number of scale rows is fixed in individual lizards. We demonstrate te usefulness of this dimorphic character to distinguish between the sexes in juvenile Lacerta vivipara in field studies.
Bauwens, D. & Van Damme, R. & Vanderstighelen, D. & Thoen, C. & Sanders, D. & Wenzel, H. van & Verheyen, R.F. (1987) -
Bauwens, D. & Van Damme, R. & Verheyen, R.F. (1989) -
In individual male Vipera berus (Nilson, 1980), and several closely related species (Saint Girons, 1980), the onset of mating activities coincides with the completion of the first annual or spring molt. This `prenuptial` molting is highly synchronized among individuals and has been suggested to be the event that triggers mating activities (Nilson, 1980). During a study examining the timing of female reproductive activities in a field population of Lacerta vivipara (Bauwens and Verheyen, 1985), the authors noted a synchronized spring molting in male lizards at the onset of the mating period. Based on these observations the authors hypothesized that, as in V. berus , spring shedding would coincide with the onset of mating activities in individual male L. vivipara . The authors here report and discuss results of a behavioral test of this hypothesis.
Bauwens, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1980) -
Bauwens, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1985) -
During a field study examining the live-bearing lizard Lacerta vivipara, we estimated the timing of mating, ovulation and parturition in individual females. Reproduction was synchronized, especially among the larger (older) females. The timing of all reproductive acts was inversely correlated with female size: smaller females have delayed reproductive activities relative to the larger lizards. The timing of copulation and parturition were related to the timing of ovulation in individual females. Thus, females which finished vitellogenesis early tended to mate early and gave birth to their young on an early date. Benefits of early reproduction include: attainment of the highest size-adjusted body weight by the post-reproductive females at the onset of hibernation; early born juveniles reach the largest size at the end of the activity season. The delay of reproduction in the smaller females is coincident with their relatively high growth rates and reduced lipid stores. Allocation of energy to reproduction appears to occur at a slow rate in the smaller adults and probably accounts for the delay in reproductive activities. We therefore consider the postponement of reproduction as a cost of rapid growth. The timing of reproduction in an individual female seems to be the result of an interaction between the benefits of early breeding and the pay-offs of rapid growth.
Bauwens, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1987) -
Variation in reproductive traits (sexual maturity, clutch size, clutch weight, mean egg mass, newborn weight) was studied during a four year period in a population of the live-bearing lizard Lacerta vivipara. Sexual maturity was associated with attaining a minimum body size. Clutch size increased with female body length and litter weight increased with clutch size. A major component of the within year variation in these reproductive traits was attributable to female size. Analysis of successive clutches in individual females indicated that a significant fraction of the variation in litter size, adjusted for female length, was due to consistent differences between individuals. Newborn weight varied within and among litters, but no relations between hatchling mass or mean egg mass in a litter and other traits were detected. Size-adjusted reproductive performances remained constant during the course of this study, even though environmental conditions (weather factors, food availability) varied annually. Observed among year variations in reproductive characteristics were attributable to differences in the body size distributions of the adult females. Size-adjusted reproductive performances remained constant during the course of this study, even though environmental conditions (weather factors, food availability) varied annually. Observed among year variations in reproductive characteristics were attributable to differences in the body size distributions of the adult females.
Baxter, J.S. & Meek, R. (1988) -
Cryosurgery has been used for the treatment of skin disorders in two lizards and a chelonian. The results of this and a previous application (Green et al., 1977) indicate that cryotherapy may be a valuable surgical tool for use in reptilian veterinary science.
Baycan, B. & Boran, B. & Özgül, C.N. & Gül, C. & Tosunoglu, M. (2022) -
The reproductive strategies of reptiles vary according to many factors. In lizards, intraspecific and interspecific competition, and environmental and seasonal factors affect their reproductive biology. This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of testis sizes in the sympatrically coexisting species, Podarcis muralis and Podarcis tauricus, located in Kofçaz, Kirklareli, Turkey, considering both intra-species and interspecies variations. Changes in body sizes and testis sizes according to months were monitored. As a result, it was determined that in both species, there was a positive correlation between body size and testis size, and that in P. tauricus, both body and testis sizes were higher compared to P. muralis, showing a significant difference. It was also observed that in the P. muralis species, the testis size reached its peak value in April (mean daily temperature 9.9°C), while in the P. tauricus species, it reached the highest value in May (mean daily temperature 15.5°C). It was found that the testis size in P. muralis reached its lowest value in August (mean daily temperature 23.8°C), while in P. tauricus, it was lowest in September (mean daily temperature 20.2°C). The fact that testis size is high in different months in these two sympatric species suggests that their active breeding periods differ.
Bayer, F. (1893) -
Bayger, J.A. (1909) -
Im voranstehenden Aufsatz wird eine neue Form der gewöhnlichen Eidechse Lacerta agilis L . als var. Dzieduszyckii m. beschrieben. Dieselbe unterscheidet sich sehr scharf von anderen bekannten Formen dieser Art durch eine besonders charakteristische Zeichnung und Färbung der Rückenzone. Es ist nämlich das Rückenband in zwei Reihen tiefschwarzer, länglicher, hellgrün umsäumter Flecken zerlegt. Das Exemplar, ein Männchen, stammt aus der nächsten Umgebung von Lemberg (Hołosko). Auf der beigesetzten Tafel sind ausser der beschriebenen Varietät noch die ebenfalls aus der Umgebung der Stadt Lemberg bekannten Formen: v. annulata Wern, und lineata Dürigen (albo v. spinalis Wern.) dargestellt.
Bayoumi, H.I. & Ahmed, M.I. & Abouzied, E.M. & Fathy, S.M. & Khannoon, E.R. (2016) -
Phylogeography has contributed considerably to our understanding of factors influencing population structure and species divergence. We assess the phylogenetic structure of the widely distributed lacertid lizard Acanthodactylus boskianus, collected for this study from the Fayoum Depression in Egypt, using partial mitochondrial DNA (12S rRNA and ND4). We analyze specimens of A. boskianus from the Fayoum Depression and compare the genetic content to gene bank-retrieved data for the South Sinai Peninsula and Siwa Oasis. The phylogenetic results indicate two isolated geographic lineages. We suggest that the divergence observed in this phylogenetic study is probably due to the geographical and physical barrier represented by the Nile River, which could have been responsible for a vicariant event producing divergent populations east and west of the Nile. Environmental factors are also discussed.
Bayoumi, H.I.H. (2016) -
The Nile River is the longest channel system in the world. It divides the Egyptian land into two halves with diverse fauna. The effect of the origin of the Nile on diversity of endemic fauna is still poorly understood. Acanthodactylus is a widespread lacertid genus distributed around the Nile River across Egypt. Besides, its distribution range extends from western India including the Middle East, Cyprus, and the Arabian Peninsula to the Iberian Peninsula and western North Africa, with problematic taxonomy and phylogenetics, particularly for Acanthodactylus boskianus. In this study we define the phylogeographic structure of A. boskianus across most of its distributional range across Egypt in both sides of the Nile River using partial mitochondrial DNA analyses. DNA sequences (12S rRNA and ND4) (408 and 846 base pairs, respectively) were analysed from 46 specimens of A. boskianus from different areas in Egypt. Also, 40 sequences of 12S were downloaded from Gene Bank and included to our sequences. The phylogenetic results indicate that the populations of A. boskianus in Egypt are grouped into four distinct clades: east and west of the Nile, Nile Delta and Middeterranean coastal poulations, and Sinai. The messinian crisis and colonization of A. boskianus at the Mideterranean coast resulted in A. boskianus boskianus which differed from A. boskianus asper remained in zeric zones with dry habitats. Our results indicate that the Nile River might present physical barrier that potentially have led to the vicariance separation of A. boskianus. We think that Acanthodactylus is still with problematic taxonomy.
Bayrak, M.O. & Bülbül, U. & Koc-Gür, H. & Eroglu, A.I. (2024) -
This study used skeletochronology to assess the relationships of age and body length of the individuals in a population of the Levant green lizard (Lacerta media), located in the Harmancik Village, Torul District, Gümüshane Province. The mean age and SVL in the adult individuals of the Harmancik population were 101.57 ± 4.04 mm and 5.31 ± 1.34 years for all individuals (101.10 ± 3.61 mm and 5.31 ± 1.03 years in adult females and 102.09 ± 4.57 mm and 5.33 ± 1.67 years in adult males). The age range varied was 4-8 years in adult males and 4-7 years in adult females. The age of the subadult males and subadult females was at 3 years, while the age of the two juveniles was 2 years. A positive correlation was found between body size (SVL) and age in adult female and male individuals of the species. A male-biased sexual size dimorphism (SSD = -0.097) was observed.
Bea, A. (1978) -
In this note new faunistic data from Lacerta vivipara JACQUIN, 1787, are presen- ted. From them it can be said that there is a uniform distribution of the species in the north of the Iberian Peninsula.Other data on the biology, coloration and habitat of these species in the Basque Country are also presented.
Bea, A. (1980) -
Two new quotations of Lacerta schreiberi are presented. Both of them are from Gui- puzcoa and that permits to extend the oriental limit of the area of distribution of the spe- cies and also to check definitively its presence in the Basque Country.
Bea, A. (1981) -
A description of the geographical area, soil. vegetation, clima and herpetofauna from the province of Guipuzcoa (Spain) has been made. From a climatical point of view, it has been set that average rain-full was 1727.9 l/year, with 170.5 rain days. Temperatures are mild. During the year the average temperature is 12.6ºC. Along 1978-1979, 796 observations of amphibians and reptiles species have been made. Quotations are distributed by months and by species. For taxonomicals groups correlations have been calculated in order to see the relationship with climatology. At the same time multiple regresion methods have been also used in both the cases results have been positive. Reptiles and lizards species presents a negative correlation with precipitation. Lizards species also with the days of rain-full. All the species, reptiles, lizards and snakes presents a positive correlation with the maximum, mean and minimum temperatures. Reptiles, lizards and snakes presents a positive correlation with the maximum-minimum difference temperature. By the other hand, we comment the relationship between environmental factors and the sun`s time, and the catchings of amphibians and reptiles. Among considered environmental variables, the slope orientation, insolation, cloudness and wind have been choosen. Lastly, spatial distribution of every species has been presented. The 89.6% of the grid squares presents at least one observation. So, for each species found in Guipuzcoa, temporal and spatial distribution and habitat are comented. Up to present, in Guipuzcoa the following species of amphibians and reptiles have been found: Salamandra salamandra, Triturus helveticus, T. marmoratus, Bufo bufo, Alytes obstetricans, Hyla arborea, Rana ridibunda, Rana temporaria, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta schreiberi, L. viridis. L. vivipara, Podarcis muralis, Coronella austriaca, C. girondica, Elaphe longissima, Natrix maura, N. natrix y Vipera seoanei.
Bea, A. (1983) -
Se publica nuevas citas de anfibios y repti- les para el País Vasco. Triturus alpestris, Disco- glossus pictus, Hyla arborea, H. meridionalis, Bufo calamita, Podarcis hispanica y Lacerta schreiberi son especies que amplían el área de distribución conocido o confirman antiguas re- ferencias bibliográficas, mientras que Rana ibe- rica es una nueva especie para la región.
Bea, A. (1999) -
Bea, A. & Gosá, A. & Guillaume, C.P. & Geniez, P. (1986) -
Bea, A. & Guillaume, M. & Arrayago, M. & Heulin, B. & Pasteur, G. (1990) -
Bea, A. & Montori, A. & Pascual, X. (1994) -
In this paper we give the results about the herpetofauna in the Aiguamolls de l`Empordá obtained during a two-year study. 1069 observations concerning 19 species, 9 of them Amphibia and 10 of them Reptilia, have been made. The physiographic characteristics of the zone of study determine the establishment of a strictly mediterranean herpetological fauna, with abundance of species related with aquatic habitats. It is worthwhile to note the high percentage of Anurans in the Aiguamolls de l`Empordá as compared to other areas. For each one of the species we made a 3 x 3 UTM distribution map, and some aspects concerning feeding, breeding, preferential occupation of habits and present status in the zone were studied. In the last part of the paper we comment and review those species that have not been found by the authors, but are cited in literature about the zone.
Beade Toubes, E. (2019) -
The low-altitude populations of the threatenedlacertid lizard Iberolacerta monticola in A Coruña province have suffered population declines in the last decades. The present study has been done on the main population of this species in the Mandeo river basin, located in the river reserve of Chelo. Population size and density have been estimated, as well as other population parameters. We used the MARK program, which allows to use different variants of the Jolly-Seber method. In addition, we did an analysis of the sex-ratio and the structure of the population using size classes.The results indicated a high density, but limited to a reduced area with favourable habitat, surrounded by inadequate zones (forests with dense tree coverage),as well asa high mortality of immature individualsand an unequal proportion betweenimmaturesand adults. It seems to point out that this population shows insular characteristics. Other relevant data forthe survival of this population were obtained, as the apparent lack of predators, based on the low percentage of individuals with tail loss, or the reduced presence of individuals affected by ectoparasites of the genus Ixodes. The low number of observed movements points out that the individuals of this population are essentially sedentary. Some consequences for the survival of this population are set and some measures are proposed for its conservation.
Beade Toubes, E. (2021) -
Las nuevas técnicas de secuenciacón permiten la identificación de una gran cantidad de polimorfismos de un único nucleótido (SNPs), que pueden ser empleados para detectar el grado de variación en una muestra de individuos y aplicarse a estudios poblacionales. En este trabajo se analizaron 90 individuos del lacértido Iberolacerta monticola de la población presente en la ZEC Betanzos-Mandeo. Se empleó el pipeline de STACKS para obtener, a partir de las lecturas procesadas, un catálogo de loci, genotipar todos los individuos y llevar a cabo el análisis genético de la población. Previamente a la ejecución, se realizó una exploración del espacio paramétrico. Además, se elaboró una lista negra de loci para poder restringir los análisis poblacionales a loci autosómicos. El estudio concluye con la determinación de la estructura genética de la población, que permitió observar el grado de fragmentación y detectar barreras que pueden estar afectando a la supervivencia de la misma.
Beaune, D. & Savier, H.-P. (2019) -
Beaux, O. de (1928) -
Bechtle, W. (1966) -
Beck, J. (2021) -
The author reports on the successful keeping and breeding of the Greek rock lizard in a terrarium.
Beck, J. (2022) -
Report about the successful keeping and breeding of Fitzinger`s Algyroides or Pygmy keeled lizard.
Beck, J. (2025) -
This article reports on years of successful keeping and breeding of the Greek Algyroides in indoor and outdoor terraria. It also reports on the socialisation with other species in the terrarium.
Beck, P. (1943) -
Becker, C. (1960) -
Becker, C. (1982) -
The author describes the variety of social behavioural patterns between both sexes of the Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis) in captivity, observed during a complete mating season. The single elements of these behavioural sequences - often developed from ritualization - `display`, `running on the spot`, `turning round and handling of the female` and `tail-biting and march of mating` are discussed. In addition an account of behavioural patterns which prevent or terminate a copulation are provided as well as those of the actual copulation. In this connection it is shown how each partner comprehends a variety of different behaviour patterns and responds to them specifically (= intraspecific communicative elements). The daily development of the mating biology of the Green Lizard is depicted by some extracts of protocol, the seasonal development by a chronological table.
Becker, C. (1984) -
Becker, H.O. (1993) -
Becker, M. & Buchholz, S. (2015) -
Urbanisation can be dangerous to biological diversity, but on the other hand cities can enhance local and regional biodiversity by providing habitat analogues for many – sometimes endangered – species that are elsewhere excluded from natural habitats. Sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) are endangered in Germany and populations are declining. This species may colonise urban habitats to a certain degree, but the effects of urban development or urbanisation on their distribution and population densities remain unexplained. The aim of this study was to ascertain if the metropolitan area of Berlin offers secondary habitats for sand lizard populations, which environmental factors affect colonisation success and to what degree they tolerate human impacts. In 2012, sand lizard populations in 30 plots (ten urban, ten suburban, ten rural) were assessed regarding their conservation status and environmental variables. We found 15 sand lizard populations; statistical analyses showed no significant differences in individual numbers among the three urbanisation categories. Regression models revealed that the percentage of suitable nesting sites, basking places and suitable microhabitats had a positive effect on density while individual numbers responded negatively to pets and isolation. Urbanisation neither affected sand lizard population densities nor their conservation status, and optimal habitats appeared independent of urbanisation. Urban as well as metropolitan habitats can therefore serve as refuges for this endangered species and negative impacts can be mitigated by forward-looking management, which is characterised by only minimal interventions.
Becker, S. (2024) -
I am passionate on keeping and breeding Ocellated Lizards for many years. Here, I report on the construction of an outdoor terrarium and my first experiences of keeping lizards outdoors!
Becker, S. & Zauner, J. (2025) -
On a day trip to Monfalcone on June 1, 2024, we were able to record four species of lacertid lizards on the outskirts of the town and in the surrounding area. The Blue-throated Keeled Lizard Algyroides nigropunctatus nigropunctatus, the Western Green Lizard Lacerta bilineata bilineata, the Dalmatian Wall Lizard Podarcis melisellensis fiumanus and the Common Wall Lizard Podarcis muralis maculiventris.
Beddek, M. (2017) -
Algeria is a case study of biodiversity ignorance. To date, there are neither complete inventories for any taxa nor atlas across the country! Yet, Algeria is of great importance for global biodiversity. The coastal area of Algeria is part of the global biodiversity hostpot which is the Mediterranean perimeter and has several regional red spots of biodiversity. Moreover, the Saharan part encompasses a diversity of endemic organisms adapted to the strong conditions of drought. The Algerian authorities are deploying an ambitious project for conservation aiming to reach 50% of the country`s surface as protected areas! However, the location of these protected areas and their management don’t obey to a scientific evidence based, but are rather based on experts opinion. The main aim of this thesis is the study of the biodiversity ignorance distribution in Algeria by focusing on the `Linnean, Wallacean, and Darwinian Shortfalls` and to contribute to reduce them. The first chapter aims at reducing the Linnean Shortfall by proposing 1) a first checklist of reptiles and amphibians of Algeria which is the result of an accurate review of scientific publications on these taxa in North Africa. 2) a first pre-assessment of the conservation status of reptiles and amphibians of Algeria for the production of the first national red list. The second part of this manuscript deals with the ignorance of the geographical distribution of species. The purpose of this part is to map the ignorance which is defined as the difference between the expected specific richness diversity and the observed specific richness. The predicted species richness was modelled with two approaches: 1 ecological niche modelling with the maximum entropy method (MaxEnt) to predict the suitable habitats for each species and then add the different binary layers of species presence to calculate the specific richness. 2) Minimum convex polygon method was used to create range maps of each species and were auditioned to obtain predicted species richness. Both approaches have shown the same trend at a national scale: the concentration of the richest areas along the Saharan Atlas and the High Plateaus which are the transition zone between the Sahara and the Mediterranean part of Algeria. The opposition of the Saharan with a low species richness and the northern part with a higher species richness. Finally, the Saharan massifs of the Hoggar and Tassili form a very distinct zone with a much greater wealth compared to the rest of the Sahara. In terms of gaps, in the northern part, Kabylie, El Kala National Park and the Oran region are fairly well surveyed. In the Sahara, only a few points are clearly well prospected as Biskra, Bechar and some areas of the Hoggar and Tassili. The third part deals with the distribution of genetic llineages in the Maghreb. The aim of this section is to locate the phylogeographic breaks between the divergent eastern and western populations of the Maghreb and to try to understand the mechanisms that led to this pattern of genetic diversity. To answer these questions, I carried out a comparative phylogeography on 11 species of reptiles and amphibians with continuous and wide distribution in the Maghreb. Two suture zones have been identified: one zone on the border of Algeria and Morocco, the other in Kabylia west of the Soummam valley. The divergences between the eastern clades and the western clades occurred between the pre-Messinian periods up to the pliopleistocene boundary and were maintained in climatic refugia in the East and West of the Maghreb.
Beddek, M. & Zenboudji-Beddek, S. & Geniez, P. & Fathalla, R. & Sourouille, P. & Arnal, V. & Dellaoui, B. & Koudache, F. & Telailia, S. & Peyre, O. & Crochet, P.-A. (2018) -
A series of phylogeographic studies in the Maghreb identified a repeated pattern of deep genetic divergence between an eastern (Tunisia) and western (Morocco) lineage for several taxa but lack of sampling in Algeria made it difficult to know if the range limits between the eastern and western lineages were shared among taxa or not. To address this question, we designed a comparative phylogeographic study using 8 reptile and 3 amphibian species with wide distribution in the Maghreb as models.We selected species where previous studies had identified an East-West phylogeographic divide and collected sampled in Algeria to 1) examine whether the simple East-West divergence pattern still holds after filling the sampling gap in Algeria or if more complex diversity patterns emerge; 2) if the E-W pattern still holds, test whether the limits between the E and W clades are shared between species, suggesting that common historical process caused the E-W divergences; 3) if E-W limits are shared between species, use information on the age of the divergence to identify possible geological or climatic events that could have triggered these E-W differentiations. We found that the E-W pattern was generally maintained after additional sampling in Algeria and identified two common disjunction areas, one around the Algeria-Morocco border, the other one in Kabylia (central Algeria), suggesting that common historical mechanisms caused the E-W divergences in the Maghreb. Our estimates for the times to most common recent ancestors to the E and W clades span a wide range between the Messinian salinity crisis and the Plio-Pleistocene limit (except for one older split), suggesting different origins for the initial divergences and subsequent preservation of the E and W lineages in common climatic refugia in the west and the east of the Maghreb.
Beddome, R.H, (1870) -
Beddome, R.H. (1870) -
Bedin, L. & Marchi, N. (2014) -
Functional aspects of biotopes in the distribution of Amphibians and Reptiles in suburban territory of Padua -- Within a two-years field campaign has been possible to assess the distribution of amphibians and reptiles in the territories surrounding the city of Padua, an area subjected in the last decades to deep transformations related to the strong urban and industrial development. 27 sites have been considered, characterized by riparian zones, abandoned clay/sand pits, woodlands and hedgerows, included in the Padova municipality and the surronding ones. In order to obtain a complete report of the ecology and real distribution of the species, agricultural and urban surroundings of the study area have also been considered. Overall, 8 Amphibian species and 9 Reptile ones have been recorded. The study results an important tool for territorial planning in a municipal, provincial and regional level.
Bedriaga, J. von (1874) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1876) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1877) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1878) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1879) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1880) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1882) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1883) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1884) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1886) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1892) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1894) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1895) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1905) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1906) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1907) -
Bedriaga, J. von (1912) -
Bedriaga. J. von (1886) -
Beebee, T. (1982) -
Beebee, T. (2014) -
Beebee, T.J.C. (1978) -
Beebee, T.J.C. (2008) -
Buccal swabbing was compared with other tissues as a source of DNA for microsatellite genotyping from two squamate reptiles. For both species, the lizard Lacerta agilis and the snake Coronella austriaca, buccal swabbing proved more reliable than tissues including tail tips, toe clips and ventral scale clips.
Beebee, T.J.C. & Rowe, G. (2001) -
We investigated sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) populations in Britain by genetic analysis across eight polymorphic microsatellite loci. Genetic diversity as determined by mean expected heterozygosity was high in all three distinct regions where the species occurs (Dorset, Surrey and Merseyside), though allelic diversity was lower on Merseyside than in Surrey or Dorset. There was significant genetic differentiation between populations in all three of these widely separated zones, as judged both by Fst and Rst estimators. A genetic test for population bottlenecks confirmed that in at least two of the areas currently inhabited, Surrey and Merseyside, L. agilis has undergone substantial recent declines. The significance of these findings for sand lizard conservation is discussed.
Beek, A. van (2012) -
Beer, G.R. de (1930) -
Behnke-Borowczyk, J. & Kurcewski, R. & Gwiazdowicz, D.J. (2021) -
The incidence of tick-borne diseases has increased in recent years. Studies on sand lizards have demon-strated that they carry a number of acarid species. The purpose of this study was to identify the transmissible pathogenic organisms in Ixodes ricinus removed from Lacerta agilis in the Wielkopolska National Park in 2015. The ticks were identified using a stereomicroscope and by comparing with taxonomical descriptions. Isolation of DNA was performed using a Modified Genomic Maxi AX Direct. The primers used were those used for the detection of haemoparasites transmitted by ticks. In total, 56 nymphs and 34 larvae were re-moved from 15 of 47 examined lizards (overall tick prevalence 31.9%). Larvae and nymphs of Ixodes ricinuswere found on 12 lizards. The highest tick burden was 14 (nymphs). Successful PCR amplicons were fromRickettsia spp. These mono-specific infections did not allow analysis of interactions between co-occurring pathogens. It is clearly necessary to extend this work targeting a much larger sample size of sand lizards and to combine this with concurrent sampling of blood from lizards.
Behrens, M. & Fartmann, T. & Hölzel, N. (2009) -
Bejakovic, D. & Aleksic, I. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Džukić, G. & Kalezic, M.L. (1996) -
Bejakovic, D. & Aleksic, I. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Dzukic, G.1 & Kalezic, M.L. (1996) -
Bejakovic, D. & Aleksic, I. & Tarasjev, A. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J.& Dzukic, G. & Kalezic, M.L. (1996) -
Bejaković, D. & Kalezić, M.L. & Aleksić, I. & Džukić, G. & Crnobrnja-Isailović, J. (1995) -
Belamendia, G. (2010) -
Belasen, A. (2013) -
related to individual quality; or a combination of both. Understanding the true nature of this colour variation may thus help to identify the possible selective mechanism producing it. The common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) exhibits polymorphic colouration, both sexes showing three pure morphs differing in throat and belly colouration (white, yellow and red) and three intermediate morphs (white-yellow, white-red, and yellow-red). In this study we used digital photography and image analysis (RGB system) to investigate colour variation among morphs, sexes and populations. We found that colouration of the six phenotypes results from the combination of three discrete colour tinges (white, red and yellow): pure morphs express a single colour, and no continuous variation exists among them. Similarly, ventral parts of the intermediate white-red and yellow-red morphs present a mixture of two discrete colours resulting from the concurrent expression in different scales of the same colours showed by the corresponding pure morphs. Finally, the white-yellow intermediates show the same colour tinge than pure yellow morph, but with a lower intensity. The finding that white-yellow lizards are smaller than all other ones suggests that they might be subadults not yet expressing the full yellow colouration. Morph colouration significantly varied among sexes, suggesting a possible role for hormone plasma levels in controlling colour expression. It is noteworthy that RGB values varied among sites, indicating that colour expression in this species holds some level of environmental plasticity. Therefore, our results confirmed the presence of discrete colour morphs, which may be genetically based in both sexes of common wall lizards. However, our findings also showed intra-individual variation in colour expression within a morph that is associated with habitat occupancy, which suggests phenotypic plasticity in morphs.
Belasen, A. & Brock, K. & Li, B. & Chremou, D. & Valakos, E. & Pafilis, P. & Sinervo, B. & Foufopoulos, J. (2017) -
Global change, including habitat isolation and climate change, has both short- and long-term impacts on wildlife populations. For example, genetic drift and inbreeding result in genetic impoverishment in small, isolated populations, while species undergo range shifts or adaptive phenotypic change in response to shifts in environmental temperatures. In this study, we utilize a model system in which Holocene landscape changes have occurred to examine long-term effects of population isolation. To examine how isolation may constrain responses to climate change, we characterized ecophysiology across land-bridge island populations of Erhard`s wall lizard Podarcis erhardii. We hypothesized that 1) small, isolated populations that are likely genetically depauperate would exhibit lower phenotypic variability; and 2) populations would be adapted to local microhabitat conditions. We compared a population at a low elevation site on the large island of Naxos with two small populations on nearby islets to determine the effects of population fragmentation. We further compared the low elevation Naxos population with two high elevation sites characterized by disparate microclimates to examine the effects of microclimate. To assess the thermal biology and ecophysiological limits of the study species we measured operative body temperatures (Te), field body temperatures (Tb), preferred temperatures (Tp), thermal tolerances (CTmax and CTmin), and evaporative water loss (EWL). Our results indicate that small, isolated populations did not exhibit thermal biology or evaporative water loss, while EWL and thermoregulatory effort varied according to microhabitat characteristics. This study integrates fine-scale measurements with environmental data to provide a holistic view of the relationships between ecophysiology, fragmentation, and microclimate. Our methods can be applied to other ectotherms to gain a better understanding of potential impacts of global change on natural populations.
Belaud, M. & Bertolero, A. & Cheylan, M. (2022) -
This study used photo identification “capture-recapture” to monitor a population of ocellated lizards (Timon lepidus Daudin, 1802), providing the first data on the demography of this species in the wild. The monitoring was conducted over a period of six years in a valley of the Var River in southeast France, with an average rate of 25 visits per year. This resulted in 1870 exploitable photographs that allowed the identification of 138 different individuals along a 1,600m linear path. For the 114 lizards that were over the age of one, the life history data was analysed with MARK software using the Cormack-Jolly-Seber (CJS) model. This analysis enabled survival estimates – both annual and seasonal (mid-May to end of September versus October to mid-May) – for both sexes. Annual survival appears to be higher in males than in females (0.65 versus 0.48), with a life expectancy of 2.3 years for adult/subadult males and 1.4 years for adult/subadult females. During the winter period, monthly survival is close to 1 for both sexes. It is lower during the summer period: 0.92 in males and 0.87 in females. These survival and longevity rates are surprisingly low for a species of this size. However, they can be considered reliable given the high “recapture” (via photo identification) rates (between 0.465 ± 0.053 and 0.986 ± 0.014 in spring, lower in autumn) and the isolation of the study site.
Belcheva, R. & Biserkov, V. & Ivlieva, H. & Beschkov, V. & Petkov, P. (1986) -
Belichon, S. (1997) -
Belik, V. (2011) -
Belik, V.P. (2014) -
Research of the herpethofauna of the Lower Volga area began by academic expeditions of the 18 century. As a result of these researches, many new species of amphibians and reptiles were described. Some of these species descriptions are recognized as the priority ones. The earliest data on amphibians and reptiles in the territory of the current Volgograd region were collected at the beginning of the 19 century (Kondratyev, 1885). Important data on the Sarepta amphibians and reptiles were also published by A. Becker (1855). Later, a new viper species was described on the basis of the Sarepta materials (Christoph, 1861). At the beginning of the 20 century, materials on amphibians and reptiles were collected by V. Kiziritsky in the territory of the Tsaritsyn (currently Volgograd) region (1913). The results of these works are reflected in A. M. Nikolsky`s reports (1915, 1916, and 1918). A next stage of research began in the middle of the 20 century by works of the Stalingrad zoologists (N. A. Kosareva, B. S. Kubantsev, T. I. Zhukova, N. N. Kolyakin, etc.). Later, zoologists from Moscow and other Russian cities conducted their research there as well. The results of all these studies on inventory of the herpethofauna of the Volgograd region are summarized in Professor B.S. Kubantsev’s works (1996, 2003, etc.). Now, local zoologists continue studying the amphibian and reptile fauna of the Volgograd region. A significant contribution to our knowledge on distribution, number and ecology of reptiles was brought by Saratov researchers. But the herpethofauna inside a considerable territory of the Lower Volga area is still poorly studied. Key words: amphibians, reptiles, fauna, study, history, Volgograd region, Russia.
Белик В.П. (2014) -
Изучение герпетофауны Нижнего Поволжья началось в академических экспедициях ХVIII в. В результате этих исследований было описано много новых видов амфибий и рептилий, часть из которых признана сейчас как валидными. Первые сведения о земноводных и пресмыкающихся на территории нынешней Волгоградской области были собраны в начале ХIХ в. (Кондратьев, 1885). Важные сведения о герпетофауне Сарепты опубликовал также A. Becker (1855). Позже по материалам из Сарепты был описан новый вид гадюки (Christoph, 1861). В начале ХХ в. на территории Волгоградской области герпетологические материалы собирал В. Кизирицкий (1913). Результаты этих работ содержатся в сводках А. М. Никольского (1915, 1916, 1918). Следующий этап исследований начался в середине ХХ в. работами сталинградских зоологов (Н. А. Косарева, Б. С. Кубанцев, Т. И. Жукова, Н. Н. Колякин и др.). Позже здесь проводили исследования также зоологи из Москвы и других городов России. Итоги всех этих работ по инвентаризации герпетофауны Волгоградской области подведены в ряде статей Б. С. Кубанцева (1996, 2003 и др.). Сейчас герпетофауну Волгоградской области продолжают изучать местные зоологи. Большой вклад в познание распространения, численности и экологии рептилий внесли также саратовские исследователи. Но герпетофауна значительной территории Нижнего Поволжья по-прежнему остается еще слабо изученной.
Bell, R. (1991) -
Bellati, A. (2011) -
Color polymorphisms are widespread in nature and may show a high variability not only within the same population, but also among populations of the same species., Color polymorphism is a common feature among reptiles and is often linked to evolution of alternative strategies. Alternative and discrete color morphs have been reported in the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, which show six different ventral colorations in both sexes: three pure phenotypes (i.e., white, yellow and red) and three intermediate phenotypes (i.e., white-yellow, white-red and yellow-red). The relative frequencies of color morphs show micro- geographic variations at local scale, which could be related to gene flow reduction among populations. Therefore, in this work I studied genetic polymorphism by using molecular markers in order to assess gene flow and dispersal among populations of common wall lizard, with the aim to describe the geographic structure of polymorphic populations at local scale. Moreover, nuclear markers were used to investigate the presence of genetic divergence among sympatric color morphs of common wall lizard.
Bellati, A. & Carranza, S. & Fasola, M. & Grieco, C. & Sindaco, R. (2013) -
Anatololacerta is a genus recently erected for a small group of lizards endemic to Western Anatolia (Turkey) and some neighboring Greek islands. Three species are generally recognised: A. danfordi (Günther, 1876), A. anatolica (Werner, 1900), and A. oertzeni (Werner, 1904). Other subspecific taxa described are: pelasgiana (Mertens, 1959), pentanisiensis (Wettstein, 1964), quandttaylori (Börner, 1974), as well as aegaea, budaki, finikensis, ibrahimi, described on morphological bases by Eiselt & Schmidtler (1986). In a chemosystematic study based on albumins, Mayer & Lutz (1989) stated that “The biochemical differences between L. danfordi, L. oertzeni and L. anatolica are too small to confirm their taxonomic revalorisation”. Following these authors, Sindaco & Jeremčenko (2008) considered all the taxa as belonging to a single species, A. danfordi. Anyway, the taxonomic value of the described taxa has not yet been addressed with molecular techniques. We performed a molecular phylogenetic analysis using two mitochondrial markers (12S rRNA, cytochrome b) on 32 museum specimens, representative of all described taxa except A. o. oertzeni, A. o. pentanisiensis and A. anatolica aegaea. We inferred Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic trees using the sister-taxon Parvilacerta as an outgroup. We also obtained haplotype network reconstruction based on parsimony algorithm to elucidate phylogeographic relationships within distinct clades. Results showed that at least A. danfordi and A. anatolica appear well differentiated at mitochondrial markers, whereas a higher genetic variation characterized A. oertzeni. Interestingly, genetic variation did not match the subspecific classification of specimens based on morphology. Further studies with nuclear markers are highly desirable to better resolve the phylogeny and the systematics of the genus.
Bellati, A. & Carranza, S. & Garcia-Porta, J. & Fasola, M. & Sindaco, R. (2015) -
The rapid development of innovative molecular tools for characterizing biodiversity is leading to an extensive and sometimes unexpected renovation of taxonomic classifications. Particularly, for species having allopatric or parapatric distributions or resulting from recent speciation processes, the absence of clear phenotypic differentiation may hinder the recognition of closely related taxa, while intraspecific polymorphism may be confused with the presence of more than one single species. In the present work, we apply different phylogenetic methods in order to infer relationships within the genus Anatololacerta, and to assess the taxonomy of this morphologically diversified group of lizards endemic to western and southern Anatolia and some neighboring Aegean islands. According to morphology, three species have been recognized (Anatololacerta anatolica, A. oertzeni and A. danfordi) as well as several subspecies, but small variation at immunological markers led some authors to join all the populations into one single taxon, A. danfordi. By selecting both mitochondrial and nuclear informative markers, we tested the effectiveness of classical “gene tree” (i.e. Bayesian Inference) vs. innovative (i.e. coalescent-based) “species tree” methods in resolving the Anatololacerta taxonomic enigma, as a case in point for similar studies on species complexes resulting from non-obvious and cryptic diversification patterns. According to our results, the “gene tree” method failed in resolving phylogenetic relationships among clades, whereas the multi-locus “species tree” approach, coupled with species delimitation methods, allowed the identification of four well distinct species. These species probably diversified in different allopatric refugia located in southern and western Anatolia, where isolated populations may have persisted during Pleistocene glacial cycles.
Bellati, A. & Pellitteri-Rosa, A. & Sacchi, R. & Nistri, A. & Galimberti, A. & Casiraghi, M. & Fasola, M. & Galeotti, P. (2011) -
Recent analyses of molecular markers have significantly revised the traditional taxonomy of Podarcis species (Squamata: Lacertidae), leading to critically reconsider the taxonomic value of several subspecies described only on morphological bases. In fact, lizards often exhibit high morphological plasticity both at the intra-specific and the intra-population level, especially on islands, where phenotypic divergences are mainly due to local adaptation, rather than to evolutionary differentiation. The Common wall lizard Podarcis muralis exhibits high morphological variability in biometry, pholidosis values and colour pattern. Molecular analyses have confirmed the key role played by the Italian Peninsula as a multi-glacial refuge for P.muralis, pointing out the lack of congruence between mitochondrial lineages and the four peninsular subspecies currently recognized. Here, we analyse a portion of the protein-encoding cytochrome b gene in the seven subspecies described for the Tuscan Archipelago (Italy), in order to test whether the mitochondrial haplotypes match the morphologically based taxonomy proposed for Common wall lizard. We also compare our haplotypes with all the others from the Italian Peninsula to investigate the presence of unique genetic lineages in insular populations. Our results do not agree completely with the subspecific division based on morphology. In particular, the phylogenetic analyses show that at least four subspecies are characterized by very similar haplotypes and fall into the same monophyletic clade, whereas the other three subspecies are closer to peninsular populations from central Italy. From these results, we conclude that at least some subspecies could be better regarded as simple eco-phenotypes; in addition, we provide an explanation for the distinctiveness of exclusive lineages found in the archipelago, which constituted a refuge for this species during last glacial periods.
Bellati, A. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Cocca, W. & Sacchi, R. & Casiraghi, M. & Fasola, M. & Galeotti, P. (2013) -
Colour polymorphism is widespread in reptiles, but the mechanisms underlying the evolution and maintenance of alternative morphs are still poorly understood. Among lizards, several studies have been carried out to investigate the adaptive value of alternative colourations, which are often associated with several life-history traits (immunological, physiological and behavioural) as a result of correlational selection favouring co-adapted gene complexes in a sexually-selected runaway process. The common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) shows three pure ventral colour morphs (white, yellow and red) and two intermediate, di-chromatic phenotypes (yellow-red and white-red) in both sexes and within the same population. Colourations are expressed at the time of sexual maturity and no continuous variation occurs among them. Moreover, they do not shift to one another once expressed; strongly suggesting that morph might be, at least partially, genetically determined. Previous studies have shown that morphs differ in immunological, haematological and physiological traits, as they play alternative strategies to achieve different fitness optima to cope with selective pressures. Recently, evidence of non-random mating has been provided both by field observations and captive-breeding experiments. In theory, positive assortative mating within the same morph and selection against hybrids could increase the potential for polymorphism in driving divergent evolution among morphs, as a first step towards eventual reproductive isolation and sympatric speciation. We selected hypervariable molecular markers (8 microsatellite loci) to study genetic differentiation among morphs in three northern Italian populations, by estimating and comparing allele frequencies and deviation from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium between morph classes and in the populations considered as single panmictic units. Observed variation in the genetic composition of morph classes within each population matched previous evidence of non-random mating between colour morphs, suggesting intra-specific genetic divergence driven by colour polymorphism in common wall lizards.
Bellenque, S. & Gadot, A.-S. & Mionnet, A. (2014) -
Bellera, F. & Cheylan, M. (1993) -
Bellese, A. (2013) -
Bellini, L. (1971) -
Belliure, J. (1997) -
Belliure, J. (2004) -
For the most diurnal lizards, the source of heat for thermoregulation is primarily radiant energy. Heliothermy (heat gain by radiation) has been given a prominent role in basking lizards. However, thigmotherny (heat gain by conduction) could be relevant for heating in small sized lizards. To ascertain the importance of the different heat transmission modes to the thermoregulatory processes, an experimental study was conducted where the role of heat transmission modes on heating rates was analysed in the Mediterranean lizards Psammodromus algirrus and Acanthodactylus erythrurus (Lacertidae). The study was conducted under laboratory conditions, where two situations of different operative temperatures (38°C and 48°C) were simulated in a terrarium. Individuals were allowed to heat up during two minutes at both temperatures and under both heat transmission modes. Temperature had a significant effect on the heating rates of both species, heat gain per unit of time being faster at the higher operative temperature (48°C). The effect of heat transmission mode was significant for A. erythrurus but not for P. algirus. However, both species showed a significant interaction between temperature and source when the main heat transmission mode was conduction from the substrate (’thigmothermy’) than when heating was mainly due to heat gain by radiation (‘heliothermy’); at 38°C heating rates did not significant differ between transmission modes. These results show that in some species heat transmission mode modulate heat exchange with the environment, suggesting that the different predominant heat transmission mode is a subtle property of the thermal environment involved in lizard thermoregulation.
Belliure, J. (2007) -
The spiny-footed lizard, Acanthodactylus erythrurus, is a small sized lacertid lizard that shows conspicuous red tails in juveniles and females at the reproductive season. Its distribution ranges from the center and south of the Iberian Peninsula, to north Africa. The species prefers open sandy habitats with sparse vegetation. Its diet consists of insects, arachnids and arthropods, with ants being an important part of the diet. The main concern for its conservation is habitat loss and deterioration.
Belliure, J. (2009) -
Belliure, J. & Carrascal, L.M. (2001) -
Belliure, J. & Carrascal, L.M. (2002) -
Heliothermy (heat gain by radiation) has been given a prominent role in basking lizards. However, thigmothermy (heat gain by conduction) could be relevant for heating in small lizards. To ascertain the importance of the different heat transmission modes to the thermoregulatory processes, we conducted an experimental study where we analyzed the role of heat transmission modes on heating rates and on the selection of sites for heating in the Mediterranean lizard Acanthodactylus erythrurus (Lacertidae). The study was conducted under laboratorym conditions, where two situations of different operative temperatures (38_ and 50_C) were simulated in a terrarium. In a first experiment, individuals were allowed to heat up during 2 min at both temperatures and under both heat transmission modes. In a second experiment, individuals were allowed to select between patches differing in the main transmission mode, at both temperatures, to heat up. Experiences were conducted with live, nontethered lizards with a starting body temperature of 27_C. Temperature had a significant effect on the heating rate, with heat gain per unit of time being faster at the higher operative temperature (50_C). The effect of the mode of heat transmission on the heating rate was also significant: at 50_C, heating rate was greater when the main heat transmission mode was conduction from the substrate (thigmothermy) than when heating was mainly due to heat gain by radiation (heliothermy); at 38_C, heating rates did not significantly differ between transmission modes. At 38_C, selection of the site for heating was not significantly different from that expected by chance. However, at 50_C, the heating site offering the slowest heating rate (heliothermic patch) was selected. These results show that heating rates vary not only with environmental temperature but also with different predominant heat transmission modes. Lizards are able to identify and exploit this heterogeneity, selecting the source of heat gain (radiation) that minimizes the risk of overheating when temperature is high.
Belliure, J. & Carrascal, L.M. & Diaz, J.A. (1996) -
Body temperatures, heat exchange rates, behavioral thermoregulation, and movement behavior (as an index of foraging mode) were studied in two widely distributed, medium sized lacertid lizards (Acanthodactylus erythrurus and Psammodromus algirus). Psammodromus algirus mainly inhabits broad-leaved forests, while A. erythrurus prefers open sandy areas with sparsely distributed vegetation. These habitat preferences parallel differences between the areas in which both genera presumably originated: Eurosaharian xeric steppes with high operative temperatures (Te’s) for Acanthodactylus, and Mediterranean open forests with lower Te’s for Psammodromus. Field observations showed that percentage of time spent basking and basking rate (no. of basks per minute) were negatively related to Te, although average bask duration was not. Percentage of time spent moving, moving rate (no. Of moves per minute), and the average duration of Individual moves were inversely related to Te, and were higher in P. algirus. The percentage of total locomotion time that was spent moving in the shade was also higher in P. algirus. Behavioral thermoregulation strategies differed between both species in a laboratory thermogradient where P. algirus basked more often and for shorter periods, and selected warmer patches, than A. erythrurus. Selected body temperatures (Tb’s) in a laboratory thermogradient were significantly higher in A. erythrurus than in P. algirus. Shade Seeking Tb was higher in A. Erythrurus, while Resume Basking Tb did not differ significantly between the two species. Heating and cooling rates were also different in the two species: A. erythrurus warmed more slowly, and cooled faster, than P. algirus. Our data support the existence of a complex syndrome which combines aspects of the behavior, physiology, and ecology of both species, so that the thermal consequences of inhabiting a certain type of habitat can be counterbalanced by behavioral and physiological means that, in turn, affect movement (and hence foraging) behavior. Thus, the more active species (P. algirus) heated faster, colled more slowly, and basked more often but for shorter periods and at warmer patches than the less active one (A. erythrurus).
Belliure, J. & Clobert, J. (2004) -
Reptiles exposed to stressful conditions respond with increases in plasma levels of corticosterone (CORT). The outcome of such hormonal fluctuations can affect the organism`s physiology and behavior; however, relatively few studies in reptiles have progressed past the effects of stress on the plasma levels of CORT. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of CORT on lizard behavior. We focused on activity and thermoregulation of juveniles of the wall lizard, Podarcis muralis. Juveniles with experimentally elevated plasma CORT concentrations showed a higher moving rate and spent a greater amount of time moving. They also spent more time being involved in attempts to escape from a terrarium. This enhanced locomotor activity was associated with significant changes in thermoregulatory behavior, as CORT-increased individuals had reduced thermoregulatory activity than the controls. The same pattern of results was obtained in nature and under laboratory conditions. Thus, CORT levels appear to mediate an important trade-off between locomotor activity and thermoregulation. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the effect of CORT on lizard thermoregulation has been examined.
Belliure, J. & Cuervo, J.J. & Fresnillo, B. (2010) -
Coloration is a conspicuous trait relatively widespread among lacertid lizard species. However, coloration in females during the reproductive period is extremely rare. Spiny-footed liz- ards (Acanthodactylus erythrurus) show reddish color of tails in juveniles and tails and hind limbs of females during the breeding season. In this study, we investigated whether female coloration is a sexual ornament attractive to males for mating. Using experimental terraria at the laboratory, males where faced to four different situations of availability of pairs of females or their odors: a) an adult female with its natural white coloration and a juvenile female with its natural red-tailed coloration; 2) an adult female arti cially red-colored and a juvenile female arti cially white-colored; 3) two adult females arti cially red and white colored, respectively; and 4) two papers impregnated with the odor of adult and juvenile female. Through video recordings, we analyzed the time that males spent near each of the females and odoring papers, assuming that a greater proportion of time would indicate preference for mating. Males preferred adult females than juvenile females, and within adult females, they preferred those that had red-colored tails and hind limbs. Since red coloration is a juvenile trait that disappears in adult individuals, choice of adult females with red colors suggests that males prefer to mate with adult females that are probably virgin, or have experienced few episodes of reproduction.
Belliure, J. & Fresnillo, B. & Cuervo, J.J. (2014) -
Belliure, J. & Fresnillo, B. & Cuervo, J.J. (2018) -
Female mate choice for male display traits is widely observed across animal taxa and is a well-established mechanism of evolution. However, males are increasingly seen to exhibit mate choice for female display traits, even in species with traditional sex roles, although this continues to be an understudied aspect of sexual selection. We evaluated the role of female coloration on male mate choice decisions in the spiny-footed lizard (Acanthodactylus erythrurus), a species in which adult females show red coloration as a retained juvenile trait. Although both sexes show red tails as juveniles and subadults, only females maintain red colored tails when becoming adult; moreover, this coloration is only present at the beginning of female adulthood and becomes white after ovulation, suggesting a mating-related function. Male courtship preferences were investigated through an experimental approach, where they were offered pairs of females that differed in size (adult/subadult) and tail coloration (red/white). Male lizards preferred adult females using both visual and chemical cues and, when adult female coloration could be chosen, they preferred red females. These results suggest that red coloration is a sexual signal involved in male mate selection. We hypothesize that red coloration in adult females might indicate sexual maturity and a pre-ovulatory reproductive status. Being a juvenile trait retained until the beginning of adulthood, we also suggest that it might indicate reduced risk of sperm competition. This study highlights the role of a juvenile trait for sexual selection and adds to the understanding of the evolution of male mate choice.
Belliure, J. & Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. (2004) -
Many animals exhibit dramatic responses when subjected to a stressor. A classic marker of the stress response is an increase in plasma glucocorticoids, but this constitutes only one step in the cascade from experience of a stressor to wider organismal changes, including behavior. The behavioral sensitivity to glucocorticoids would determine the consequences of the stress-related alteration of behavior for the organism. In this study we explored, under laboratory conditions, the prenatal and postnatal effects of corticosterone on activity and thermoregulation of juveniles of the common lizard, Lacerta vivipara. Activity was measured as the time spent moving and the time spent scratching the wall in an empty terrarium. Thermoregulatory behavior was measured as the time spent motionless under a light bulb. Activity and thermoregulation of juveniles of the common lizard showed a different sensitivity to prenatal and postnatal corticosterone treatment, modulated by juvenile sex and maternal condition. Prenatal corticosterone manipulation influenced the time spent moving in both sexes. By contrast, only juvenile females increased the time spent scratching the walls of the terrarium when corticosterone was delivered both at the prenatal and postnatal stage. Prenatal hormone manipulation increased the time spent basking by juveniles issued from large females. These results suggest that, in addition to influencing a variety of behavioral and morphological traits, corticosterone may also play an important role in the regulation of activity and thermoregulation of juvenile lizards, modulated by individual sex and maternal condition.
Belliure, J. & Smith, L. & Sorci, G. (2004) -
One of the primary assumptions of the immunocompetence handicap hypothesis is that testosterone has an immunosuppressive effect, but conflicting results have been reported in a variety of bird species concerning the effect of testosterone on the humoral and the T cell-mediated components of the immune system. The T cell-mediated component of the immune system is particularly important during the breeding season, because the likelihood of injury during sexual competition is high and T cell-mediated immunity is essential for healing wounds and resisting infection. In this study we examined the effect of experimentally increased levels of testosterone during breeding season on T cell-mediated immunity in male lizards of two Mediterranean lacertid species, Psammodromus algirus and Acanthodactylus erythrurus. The hormonal treatment significantly increased testosterone of the experimental individuals. T cell-mediated responses to phytohemagglutinin stimulation were significantly suppressed in testosterone-treated males of both species. Furthermore, there was a significant negative relationship between individual variability in T cell-mediated responsiveness and plasma testosterone concentration. The present study is the first to demonstrate testosterone-induced suppression of T cell-mediated immunity in lizards.
Bello, A.R. & Milan, J. & Anglade, I. & Martin, A. & Negrin, I. & Diaz, C. & Conlon, J.M. & Tramu, G. & Kah, O. (1994) -
The comparative distribution of peptidergic neural systems in the brain of the euryhaline, viviparous teleost Poecilia latipinna (green molly) was examined by immunohistochemistry. Topographically distinct, but often overlapping, systems of neurons and fibres displaying immunoreactivity (ir) related to a range of neuropeptides were found in most brain areas. Neurosecretory and hypophysiotrophic hormones were localized to specific groups of neurons mostly within the preoptic and tuberal hypothalamus, giving fibre projections to the neurohypophysis, ventral telencephalon, thalamus, and brain stem. Separate vasotocin (AVT)-ir and isotocin (IST)-ir cells were located in the nucleus preopticus (nPO), but many AVT-ir nPO neurons also displayed growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF)-like-ir, and in some animals corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF)-like-ir. The main group of CRF-ir neurons was located in the nucleus recessus anterioris, where coexistence with galanin (GAL) was observed in some cells. Enkephalin (ENK)-like-ir was occasionally present in a few IST-ir cells of the nPO and was also found in small neurons in the posterior tuberal hypothalamus and in a cluster of large cells in the dorsal midbrain tegmentum. Thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (TRH)-ir cells were found near the rostromedial tip of the nucleus recessus lateralis. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-ir cells were present in the nucleus olfactoretinalis, ventral telencephalon, preoptic area, and dorsal midbrain tegmentum. Molluscan cardioexcitatory peptide (FMRF-amide)-ir was colocalized with GnRH-ir in the ganglion cells and central projections of the nervus terminalis. Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH)-ir neurons were restricted to the tuberal hypothalamus, mostly within the nucleus lateralis tuberis pars lateralis, and somatostatin (SRIF)-ir neurons were numerous throughout the periventricular areas of the diencephalon. A further group of SRIF-ir neurons extending from the ventral telencephalon into the dorsal telencephalon pars centralis also contained neuropeptide Y (NPY)-, peptide YY (PYY)-, and NPY flanking peptide (PSW)-like-ir. These immunoreactivities were, however, also observed in non-SRIF-ir cells and fibres, particularly in the mesencephalon. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-like-ir had a characteristic distribution in cells grouped in the isthmal region and fibre tracts running forward into the hypothalamus, most strikingly into the inferior lobes. Antisera to cholecystokinin (CCK) and neurokinin A (NK) or substance P (SP) stained very extensive, separate systems throughout the brain, with cells most consistently seen in the ventral telencephalon and periventricular hypothalamus. Broadly similar, but much more restricted, distributions of cells and fibres were seen with antisera to neurotensin (NT) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Although in most cases the exact chemical natures of the immunoreactive substances are unknown, the results suggest that many peptides related to those proposed as neurotransmitters in the mammalian nervous system are present in specific neuronal systems in the teleost fish brain.
Bello, A.R. & Tramu, G. & Pérez-Batista, M.A. & Marti, E. & Lancha, A. (1989) -
Bels, V.L. & Goosse, V. (1990) -
The kinematic profiles of jaw movements are described for Anolis carolinensis and Lacerta viridis feeding on the same prey item (maggot). A. carolinensis is an iguanian (typified by lingual prey capture) and L. viridis is a scleroglossan (typified by prey capture using jaws alone). A. carolinensis, however, catches maggots by using only the jaws. In so doing, it exhibits the four stages of gape profile considered typical for lizards (slow open, fast open, fast close, slow close). Gape cycle in L. viridis shows a hyperbolic curve (no slow open). Two hypotheses concerning the relationship between the two gape cycles are discussed.
Bels, V.L. & Goosse, V. (1993) -
The kinematics of drinking of Lacerta viridis were analysed. A drinking bout is composed of four phases: approach, immersion, emersion and withdrawal. The tongue and gravity are central to moving water through successive compartments of the buccal cavity and into the oesophagus. Upon the basis of formifunction analysis of water intake and transport, a kinematic modcl of drinking in lizards is proposed.
Beltra, S. (2012) -
The list of amphibians and reptiles living in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur constitutes an inventory of up-to-date knowledge on herpetofauna. It contains 22 amphibian taxons and 41 reptile taxons. It also contains their regional distribution, a list of the relevant national, European, and international protection laws, as well as the conservation status of each species.
Beltra, S. (2013) -
The list of amphibians and reptiles living in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur constitutes an inventory of up-to-date knowledge on herpetofauna.
Beltrami, G. (2010) -
My PhD research activity focused on the investigation of the role of polarized light in the directional orientation of the lacertid lizard Podarcis sicula. In particular, the aim of this work was to systematically analyze P. sicula orientation behaviour and to lay the foundation for future electrophysiological and molecular investigations of anatomical structures assigned to sky polarization perception. Another goal was to understand the evolutionary meaning of these structures and the mechanisms of polarization perception. For this purpose, the first experimental section (EXPERIMENT 1: Beltrami et al., 2010) examined whether ruin lizards P. sicula are able to orientate using the E-vector direction of polarized light. Lizard orientation was tested indoors, under an artificial light source: this device produced plane polarized light with a single E-vector, that provided an axial cue. These results showed that lizards can learn a training axis and that after 90° rotation of the E-vector direction of polarized light the lizards’ directional choices rotated correspondingly. The following step of the study aimed at elucidating whether the functioning of a sky polarization compass would be mediated by the lizard parietal eye. To test this, ruin lizards that met learning criteria were tested under polarized light after their parietal eyes were painted black. Lizards with black-painted parietal eyes were completely disoriented. These data showed for the first time that the parietal eye plays a central role in mediating the functioning of a putative sky polarization compass of lizards. Furthermore, the experimental apparatus used in this experiment emitted light that did not include wavelengths in the UV range. Thus, the UV range is not necessary for perceiving polarized light in ruin lizards, unlike other species as, for example, honey bees and desert ants that in the absence of UV are unable to use a sky polarization compass. That being so, the second experimental part (EXPERIMENT 2) was aimed at testing whether there is a preferential region of the light spectrum to perceive the E-vector direction of polarized light. The results showed that lizards can learn a training direction when trained under white light produced by an LCD and E-vector parallel to the training axis. Lizards that met the learning criteria were then tested under white light and E-vector perpendicular to the training axis, just to validate the new LCD equipment: as expected, lizards followed a 90° rotation of the Evector direction, confirming once again that they can use the polarized light for orientation. Thereafter, lizards were tested under coloured polarized light (blue, green, red and turquoise), initially with E-vector parallel to the training axis and then with E-vector perpendicular to the training axis, to examine whether P. sicula can perceive polarized light of a particular wavelength range and use it in orientation. Under both blue light and turquoise light lizards were able to orient in both E-vector’s conditions, otherwise under red light lizards were completely disoriented; under green light lizards were able to orient themselves only when the direction of the E-vector was the same as in training, whereas after a 90° rotation of the E-vector lizards were disoriented, in both spectral radiance level (high and low). Incorrect orientation after E-vector rotation under Green light was independent of (high or low) spectral radiance and one hypothesis to interpret these data is that the green stimuli could be barely discernible. These results, combined with the data under Green light previously discussed, demonstrate that the blue-turquoise part of the light spectrum is crucial for a correct functioning of sky polarization compass, whereas red wavelengths do not mediate perception of the E-vector. The third experimental section (EXPERIMENT 3) was performed outdoors. The first part of this experiment was aimed to validate the new set-up outdoors. Inside the experimental apparatus lizards had only the sky polarization pattern available for orientation. As expected, the results demonstrated that lizards can learn a training direction and the new set-up is well suited to investigate orientation mechanisms in lizards. The second part of this experiment was aimed at testing the time-compensated nature of the sky polarization compass. The results demonstrated that lizards can learn a training direction under blue sky with no sun’s disc, but surprisingly, they cannot retain the spatial information. Indeed, after 6 days without training, both control group and fast-shifted group, were disorientated. A possibility is that some aspects of the information necessary for the normal functioning of the sky polarization compass is not retained for a week with no training. Alternatively, it is possible that the sky polarization compass needs to be recalibrated almost daily by external cues, such as exposure of the lizards to the sun’s disc. Clearly, other explanations are possible, and further experiments outdoors are necessary to answer this important question. Results relating to my three year of PhD course show the way forward to new interesting questions and so to new possible experimental applications to finally clarify the evolutionary role of the sky polarization compass and its interactions with other orientation mechanisms (for example the sun compass or the magnetic compass). It should be very interesting to deepen the knowledge of the nature of the sky polarization pattern’s information, to elucidate the time-compensated mechanisms that set the information retention.
Beltrami, G. & Bertolucci, C. & Parretta, A. & Petrucci, F. & Foà, A. (2010) -
The present study first examined whether ruin lizards Podarcis sicula are able to orientate using the e-vector direction of polarized light. Ruin lizards were trained and tested indoors, inside a hexagonal Morris water maze, positioned under an artificial light source producing plane polarized light with a single e-vector, which provided an axial cue. Lizards were subjected to axial training by positioning two identical goals in contact with the centre of two opposite side walls of the Morris water maze. Goals were invisible because they were placed just beneath the water surface, and water was rendered opaque. The results showed that the directional choices of lizards meeting learning criteria were bimodally distributed along the training axis, and that after 90 deg rotation of the e-vector direction of polarized light the lizards directional choices rotated correspondingly, producing a bimodal distribution which was perpendicular to the training axis. The present results confirm in ruin lizards results previously obtained in other lizard species showing that these reptiles can use the e-vector direction of polarized light in the form of a sky polarization compass. The second step of the study aimed at answering the still open question of whether functioning of a sky polarization compass would be mediated by the lizard parietal eye. To test this, ruin lizards meeting learning criteria were tested inside the Morris water maze under polarized light after their parietal eyes were painted black. Lizards with black-painted parietal eyes were completely disoriented. Thus, the present data show for the first time that the parietal eye plays a central role in mediating the functioning of a putative sky polarization compass of lizards.
Beltrami, G. & Buttini, P. & Bertolucci, C. & Parretta, A. & Petrucci, F. & Foa, A. (2011) -
Previous experiments in our laboratory showed that ruin lizards Podarcis sicula can use the e-vector direction of polarized light in the form of a sky polarization compass, and that the parietal eye of these lizards plays a central role in mediating functioning of the putative sky polarization compass. The present study further examined whether ruin lizards are able to orientate using a preferential region of the light spectrum to perceive the e-vector direction of polarized light. Lizards were trained and tested indoors, inside an hexagonal Morris water maze, positioned under an LCD screen producing by itself plane polarized light with a single e-vector, which provided an axial cue. Lizards (N= 86) were subjected to axial training. Lizards meeting learning criteria (N= 43), were subjected to 90° rotation of the e-vector directions. Lizards directional choices rotated correspondingly, producing a bimodal distribution which was perpendicular to the training axis. Lizards were then tested under 3 different lights (blue: 435nm; red: 611nm; turquoise). Under both blue light and turquoise light lizards were able to orientate in both e-vector’s conditions, whereas under red light lizards resulted completely disorientated. Present data showed that both the blue wavelength and the turquoise wavelength are crucial for perceiving e-vector, whereas the red wavelength doesn’t mediate the perception of the e-vector. The role of green wavelength (544 nm) is at the moment under examination. The present experiment also confirmed that the UV is not necessary to perceive polarized light. At present, we are carrying out further investigation to establish whether the sky polarization compass is really a time-compensated compass.
Beltrami, G. & Parretta, A. & Petrucci, F. & Buttini, P. & Bertolucci, C. & Foà, A. (2012) -
The present study first examined whether ruin lizards, Podarcis sicula, are able to orientate using plane-polarized light produced by an LCD screen. Ruin lizards were trained and tested indoors, inside a hexagonal Morris water maze positioned under an LCD screen producing white polarized light with a single E-vector, which provided an axial cue. White polarized light did not include wavelengths in the UV. Lizards orientated correctly either when tested with E-vector parallel to the training axis or after 90 deg rotation of the E-vector direction, thus validating the apparatus. Further experiments examined whether there is a preferential region of the light spectrum to perceive the E-vector direction of polarized light. For this purpose, lizards reaching learning criteria under white polarized light were subdivided into four experimental groups. Each group was tested for orientation under a different spectrum of plane-polarized light (red, green, cyan and blue) with equalized photon flux density. Lizards tested under blue polarized light orientated correctly, whereas lizards tested under red polarized light were completely disoriented. Green polarized light was barely discernible by lizards, and thus insufficient for a correct functioning of their compass. When exposed to cyan polarized light, lizard orientation performances were optimal, indistinguishable from lizards detecting blue polarized light. Overall, the present results demonstrate that perception of linear polarization in the blue is necessary – and sufficient – for a proper functioning of the sky polarization compass of ruin lizards. This may be adaptively important, as detection of polarized light in the blue improves functioning of the polarization compass under cloudy skies, i.e. when the alternative celestial compass based on detection of the sun disk is rendered useless because the sun is obscured by clouds.
Beltremieux, E. (1863) -
Beltremieux, E. (1884) -
Bender, C. (1992) -
Bender, C. (1993) -
Bender, C. (1995) -
Bender, C. (1997) -
Bender, C. (1999) -
Bender, C. & Fuhrmann, M. (2000) -
Bender, C. & Fuhrmann, M. (2001) -
Bender, C. & Hildebrandt, H. & Schmidt-Loske, K. & Grimm, V. & Henle, K. (1996) -
Bender, C. & Schmidt-Loske, K. & Asmussen, U. & Hildenbrandt, H. (1999) -
Benelkadi, H.A. & Mammeri, A. & Amroun, M. (2021) -
This study is the first contribution to the evaluation of reptile diversity in different habitats of M’sila region, Algeria. We carried out 94 trips between 2016 and 2018 across three sites: Mergueb (six stations), L’mhazem (three stations) and Kaf Afoul (two stations), on average, accompanied by prospectors. Our aims were to make an inventory of reptilian species in this region, as well as to study their diversity, distribution, ecology and abundance. Altogether, we recorded 193 specimens belonging to 22 species: two turtles, one amphisbaenian, twelve lizards and seven snakes. Two species classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN were recorded: Uromastyx acanthinurus (Bell, 1825) and Daboia mauritanica (Duméril & Bibron, 1848). Statistical analysis revealed that the type of habitat directly influences the distribution of reptiles in the study area. Although this small area is rich in reptilian species, their abundance remains low and worrying.
Beninde, J. & Feldmeier, S. & Veith, M. & Hochkirch, A. (2018) -
Introductions of non-native lineages increase opportunities for hybridization. Non-native lineages of the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, are frequently introduced in cities where they hybridize with native populations. We aimed at unravelling the invasion history and admixture of native and non-native wall lizards in four German cities using citywide, comprehensive sampling. We barcoded and genotyped 826 lizards and tested if gene flow in populations composed of admixed native and introduced lineages is facilitated by similar environmental factors to those in native populations by comparing fine-scale landscape genetic patterns. In cities with non-native lineages, lizards commonly occurred in numerous clusters of hybrid swarms, which showed variable lineage composition, consisting of up to four distinct evolutionary lineages. Hybrid swarms held vast genetic diversity and showed recent admixture with other hybrid swarms. Landscape genetic analyses showed differential effects of cityscape structures across cities, but identified water bodies as strong barriers to gene flow in both native and admixed populations. By contrast, railway tracks facilitated gene flow of admixed populations only. Our study shows that cities represent unique settings for hybridization, caused by multiple introductions of non-native taxa. Cityscape structure and invasion histories of cities will determine future evolutionary pathways at these novel hybrid zones.
Beninde, J. & Feldmeier, S. & Werner, M. & Perverse, D. & Schulte, U. & Hochkroch, A. & Veith, M. (2016) -
Functional connectivity is essential for the long-term persistence of populations. However, many studies assess connectivity with a focus on structural connectivity only. Cityscapes, namely urban landscapes, are particularly dynamic and include numerous potential anthropogenic barriers to animal movements, such as roads, traffic or buildings. In order to assess and compare structural connectivity of habitats and functional connectivity of gene flow of an urban lizard, we here combined species distribution models (SDMs) with an individual- based landscape genetic optimization procedure. The most important environmental factors of the SDMs are structural diversity and substrate type, with high and medium levels of structural diversity as well as open and rocky/gravel substrates contributing most to structural connectivity. By contrast, water cover was the best model of all environmental factors following landscape genetic optimization. The river is thus a major barrier to gene flow, while of the typical anthropogenic factors only buildings showed an effect. Nonetheless, using SDMs as a basis for landscape genetic optimization provided the highest ranked model for functional connectivity. Optimizing SDMs in this way can provide a sound basis for models of gene flow of the cityscape, and elsewhere, while presence-only- and presence-absence-modelling approaches showed differences in performance. Additionally, interpretation of results based on SDM factor importance can be misleading, dictating more thorough analyses following optimization of SDMs. Such approaches can be adopted for management strategies, e.g. aiming to connect native common wall lizard populations or disconnect them from non-native introduced populations, which are currently spreading in many cities in Central Europe.
Beninde, J. & Hochkirch, A. & Veith, M. & Proess, A. (2016) -
Benito, M. & Conradie, W. & Vaz Pinto, P. & Lobón-Roviera, J. (2025) -
Ichnotropis is a genus of small and elusive ground-dwelling lizards mostly distributed in the savannas and woodlands south of the Congo River. The genus comprises six nominal species and three subspecies; however, the phylogenetic hypothesis of this group and the taxonomical status of several taxa remain unresolved. Among these species, Ichnotropis microlepidota stands out, as it is only known from the type series since its discovery in the 1950s in the crop of a Chanting Goshawk in Mount Moco, in the central highlands of Angola. Consequently, due to the lack of a precise locality and its similar morphology to other species, the taxonomic status of this species has been debated by several authors. Thanks to the collection of new material across the Angolan territory, we take the opportunity to revise the group, using molecular and morphological techniques. Thus, we here provide the first phylogenetic hypothesis of the group in Angola and therefore a phylogenetic placement of I. microlepidota. As a result, we validate the taxonomic status of this elusive species and demonstrate that it represents a distinct taxon within the bivittata group, differing by 14.99% 16S uncorrected p-distance from I. bivittata. Furthermore, we undertake an updated description of this species, providing additional ex- ternal and internal (i.e., cranial osteology) morphological features that can be used to compare I. microlepidota with other members of the group. Finally, we identified two candidate new species from Angola and corroborated the importance of the central highlands of Angola as an important center of endemism in the western slope of Central Africa.
Benl (1965) -
Bennati, R. (1988) -
The author describes the results of many years of research on the erpetological fauna of Mount Adamello.
Bennati, R. & Bonetti, M. & Mazzi, F. & Povinelli, G. (1996) -
Bennati, R. & Mazzi, F. & Sportelli, L. (1975) -
Bennett, A.F. & Huey, R.B. & John-Alder, H. (1984) -
1. Physiological factors relating to activity metabolism were measured in two species of African lacertid lizards that differ greatly in natural foraging patterns: Eremias lineoocellnta, a sitandwait predator, and E. lugubris, a widely foraging animal. 2. Maximal oxygen consumption at 37 `C is greater in E. lugubris [3.22 ml O,/(g x h)] than in E. lineoocellata [2.49 ml 02/(g x h)]. 3. Anaerobic scope and capacity at 37 `C are greater in E. lineoocellata [2.56 mg lactate/(g x min) and 1.81 mg lactate/g] than in E. lugubris [2.12 mg lactate/(g x min) and 1.40 mg lactatelg]. 4. Relative heart mass and hematocrit are greater in E. lugubris than in E. lineoocellata (0.28% and 0.24% body mass; 30.1 and 24.4, respectively). 5. No significant interspecific differences occur in hind limb muscle mass as a percentage of body mass or in myoglobin concentration, citrate synthase or myofibrillar ATPase activity of hind limb skeletal muscle. 6. No significant interspecific differences occur in isometric contractile properties (twitch and tetanic tension, twitch rise time and half-relaxation time, and fatigue response to tetanic stimulation) of the iliofibularis muscle. 7. Organismal metabolic patterns of aerobic and anaerobic capacity reflect differences in locomotor capacity and natural foraging patterns of these species.
Bensettiti, F. & Gaudillat, V. (2002) -
Berbel, P.J. & Martínez-Guijarro, F.J. & López-García, C. (1987) -
The morphology of cells and the organization of axons were studied in Golgi-Colonnier and toluidine blue stained preparations from the medial cerebral cortex of the lizard Lacerta pityusensis. In the medial cortex, six strata were distinguished between the superficial glial membrane and the ependyma. Strata I and II formed the outer plexiform layer, stratum III formed the cellular layer, and strata IV go VI the inner plexiform layer. The outer plexiform layer contained smooth bipolar neurons; their dendrites were oriented anteroposteriorly and their axons were directed towards the posterior zone of the brain. Five neuronal types were observed in the cellular layer. The spinous pyramidal neurons had well-developed apical dendrites and poorly developed basal ones. Their axons entered the inner plexiform layer and gave off collaterals oriented anteroposteriorly. The small, sparsely spinous pyramidal neurons had poorly developed dendrites and their axons entered the inner plexiform layer. The spinous bitufted neurons had well-developed apical and basal dendritic tufts. Their axons gave off collaterals that reached the outer and inner plexiform layers of both the dorsomedial and dorsal cortices. The sparsely spinous horizontal neurons had dendrites restricted to the outer plexiform layer. Their axons entered the inner plexiform layer. The sparsely spinous, multipolar neurons had their soma close to stratum IV and their axons entered the outer plexiform layer. In stratum V of the inner plexiform layer were large, spiny polymorphic neurons; they had dendrites with long spines, and their axons reached the cellular layer. On the basis of these results, we have subdivided the medial cortex into two subregions: the superficial region, which contains the neurons of the cellular layer and their dendritic domains, and the deep region, strata V and VI, which contains the large, spiny polymorphic neurons. The neurons in the medial cortex of these lizards resembles those in the area dentata of mammals. On this basis, the superficial region may be compared to the dentate gyrus and the deep region to the hilar region of the hippocampus of mammals.
Berdún, E. & Bisbal-Chinesta, J.F. (2018) -
Bererhi, B. (2021) -
Bererhi, B. & Duchesne, P. & Schwartz, T.S. & Ujvari, B. & Wapxstra, E. & Olsson, M. (2023) -
The harmful effects of close inbreeding have been recognized for centuries and, with the rise of Mendelian genetics, was realized to be an effect of homozygosis. This historical background led to great interest in ways to quantify inbreeding, its depression effects on the phenotype and flow-on effects on mate choice and other aspects of behavioral ecology. The mechanisms and cues used to avoid inbreeding are varied and include major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules and the peptides they transport as predictors of the degree of genetic relatedness. Here, we revisit and complement data from a Swedish population of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) showing signs of inbreeding depression to assess the effects of genetic relatedness on pair formation in the wild. Parental pairs were less similar at the MHC than expected under random mating but mated at random with respect to microsatellite relatedness. MHC clustered in groups of RFLP bands but no partner preference was observed with respect to partner MHC cluster genotype. Male MHC band patterns were unrelated to their fertilization success in clutches selected for analysis on the basis of showing mixed paternity. Thus, our data suggest that MHC plays a role in pre-copulatory, but not post-copulatory partner association, suggesting that MHC is not the driver of fertilization bias and gamete recognition in sand lizards.
Bererhi, B. & Wapstra, E. & Schwartz, T.S. & Olsson, M. (2019) -
Reported effects of inbreeding vary among taxa and may depend on a number of factors, including what trait is measured, temporal variability, parental effects, or life history stage. To understand the effects of inbreeding during early life history stages, we estimated the effects of individual-level heterozygosity on hatching success and first year survival in a Swedish population of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) over a period of almost a decade, using over 4000 eggs, 400 clutches, and over 3000 juveniles. Heterozygosity had a positive effect on hatching success, in standardized laboratory conditions, but no effect on first year survival. Also, both of these measures of viability varied across the years of the study, demonstrating the importance of temporal heterogeneity in pre and post-hatching conditions. Finally, we identified both paternal and maternal identity effects on hatching success. Thus, we show that selection on heterozygosity was not consistent across developmental life stages, emphasizing the need of considering a number of ontogenic stages, as well as potential parental and environmental effects, when studying the effects of heterozygosity on viability in natural populations.
Berezowski, T. & Kosmider, J. & Greczuk, M. & Chormanski, J. (2015) -
Reptile habitats are described using various indices. The definitions of such indices are crucial, as they are applied to habitat modelling for numerous species on local to continental scales. We examined the Leaf Area Index (LAI) for its value as a tool for determining reptile habitat. During measurements carried out in spring and summer months between 2011 and 2013, LAI values were assessed and surveys were conducted on reptile fauna at 11 survey sites in the Solska Forest and Roztocze National Parks areas in Eastern Poland. In total, six Squamata reptiles occurring in Poland were found. We determined that LAI can be utilized as a reptile habitat index, with reptile species associated with LAI seasonal variability as well as LAI range. Moreover, we found that the higher the LAI median value, the greater the variety of reptile species. These findings are useful for development of spatial models of habitats based on LAI as they point to the importance of its seasonal variation.
Berg, G. van den (1955) -
Berg, J. (1893) -
Berg, J. (1894) -
Berg, M.P. van den (2008) -
Berg, M.P. van den (2009) -
Berg, M.P. van den (2010) -
Some remarks are made about the variability in Podarcis pityusensis in the Formentera and adjacent island populations. Two new islet populations of this species are described for Illa de Ses Perreres and Illa d’es Fonoll Mori, close to Es Pujols (Formentera).
Berg, M.P. van den (2011) -
Short note on a concolor morph of Podarcis liolepis liolepis (BOULENGER, 1905) in the old botanical garden (Montjuïc) of Barcelona.
In this article an introduction is given on the geological history leading to the separation of Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) and Podarcis pityusensis (BOSCÁ, 1883) as separate species, as well as a Holocene sea level rise model which combined with bathymetric data leads to an estimation of recent divergence time in populations of the Balearic lizards.
Berg, M.P. van den (2015) -
New data on estimated divergence times of the populations of lacertid lizards in the Balearic Islands are provided in this second update of the October 2011 article: Estimating recent divergence time in populations of Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) and Podarcis pityusensis (BOSCÁ, 1883) (VAN DEN BERG 2011), which received its first update May 2012. In most cases better estimations of divergence times were available by using the NAVIONICS SonarCharts™webapp.
Berg, M.P. van den (2017) -
Today Ichnotropis is still a poorly understood genus. This is an attempt to initialize some change herein, by providing an extensive bibliographic history of the genus, together with some remarks on the described taxa. Necessary future research is suggested.
Berg, M.P. van den (2019) -
A report is made of a visit to the Belvédère area in Maastricht on Saturday the 21st of September 2019. This is shortly after the completion of major changes in this area, which is also the location of the northernmost native population of Podarcis muralis.
Berg, M.P. van den (2020) -
On October 16, 2019 an image of Ichnotropis bivittata, taken on May 12, 2018 in Cassongue county, Cuanza Sul province, Angola, was uploaded on iNaturalist by Rogério Ferreira for determination. This specimen may have some features of Ichnotropis microlepidota, in which case it would be the first time that this species has been observed since the species description by Marx (1956).
Berg, M.P. van den & Zawadzki, M. (2010) -
It is reported about the rediscovery of a population of the Balearic Lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) on the Illa de Ses Mones in the harbour of Port d´Addaia. This population has been considered to have become extinct during the 1990s due to the introduction of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus). Descriptions of the island and the lizards are given and for the first time it is reported about the sympatric occurrence of Podarcis lilfordi and P. siculus. Because in quite a lot of publications the nearby Illot d´en Carbó has been confused with the Illa de Ses Mones the taxonomic status of the rediscovered Podarcis lilfordi population from the Illa de Ses Mones is discussed in this paper.
In this article we make some notes on the smallest islet populations of Podarcis pityusensis (BOSCÁ, 1883) and Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874), with a first description of two populations on Escull de Figueretes (Ibiza) and Carbó Petit (Menorca).
Berg, M.P. van den & Zawadzki, M. (2011) -
We report on our observations on Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) during our 8 day trip to the natural park of s’Albufera des Grau (Spain/Menorca) and give preliminary conclusions on the status of some populations.
Berg, M.P. van den & Zawadzki, M. (2017) -
This is already our seventh report in a series on our whereabouts while collecting data for a future revision of the present subspecific order of the endemic Balearic sisterspecies Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) and Podarcis pityusensis (BOSCÁ, 1883) (VAN DEN BERG & ZAWADZKI 2011 ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2013 ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2014a ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2014b ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2015 ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2016). During this trip from the 8th until the 21st of April 2017, we were able to collect data at some mainland Ibiza locations, as well as on the following adjacent islands: Caragoler, Escull d’en Terra, Negra Norte, Vedranell, Conillera and Ses Margalides. We continue with the ventral coloration as a possible determining key as introduced in our 2014 trip report (VAN DEN BERG et al. 2014b). Images of the anal shields are presented of each lizard for purposes of illustration. Also we report on a new approach of assessing small islands, which have been considered without lizards in the past, or haven’t been considered at all, for the possibility of hosting a lizard population. Investigating these “uninhabited” small islands resulted in one new to describe population of Podarcis pityusensis, and a proven occurrence of a lizard population on another small island.
Berg, M.P. van den & Zawadzki, M. (2023) -
The Ibiza wall lizard Podarcis pityusensis (Boscá, 1883) is the only living endemic land vertebrate of the Pityusic Islands. It has not only become the symbol of these islands, but also plays a significant role in the sub-archipelago’s ecosystem. For centuries, Ibiza was famous for being completely free of snakes. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case. The introduction of three snake species on Ibiza has changed the natural balance of the island. The horseshoe whip snake Hemorrhois hippocrepis is of particular concern as it is threatening to wipe out the native lizards. Not only does Podarcis pityusensis disappear at a worrying rate on Ibiza: the population from the little offshore island Illot de S’Oro, representing the subspecies Podarcis pityusensis hortae, has already become extinct due to this new predator.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (colloquially known as drones) equipped with a high-definition camera have a wide range of applications in biological research. In this article we report on our experiences using a drone to explore the surface of hard to access small islands in the North of Ibiza (Balearic Islands, Spain) for possible occurrences of lizard populations. On one of these small and unnamed islets that we call “Escull a Punta de Llevant” we detected a hitherto unknown population of Podarcis pityusensis.
Berg, M.P. van den & Zawadzki, M. & Kroniger, M. (2013) -
We report on our observations on Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) and other Menorcan herpetofauna during our 12 day trip to Menorca (Balearics, Spain). 13 populations of Podarcis lilfordi were surveyed, 101 specimens were measured and photographed in detail, from which 84 specimens were “buccal-swabbed” for DNA samples. The subspecific status of Hemidactylus turcicus spinalis from Addaia Gran is discussed and rejected.
Berg, M.P. van den & Zawadzki, M. & Kroniger, M. (2014) -
More than three decades of fascination for the endemic Balearic sisterspecies Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) and Podarcis pityusensis (BOSCÁ, 1883), resulted in 30 trips (1980-2013) to the home of these lacertid lizards, in which we studied their ethology as well as their distribution and geographical differences in pattern and coloration. In comparison to prior scientific studies that led to an inflationary description of subspecies, we often found wide variations within populations and their subspecific characteristics. The question “To be distinct, or not to be distinct” is, to our opinion, not answered correctly in most cases. In order to gather data for a future revision of the present subspecific order, we started in 2011 to collect data of these lizards in a structured way, and storing this data in a free accessible database (www.pityusensis.nl). Later in 2011 we enhanced our dataset by gathering tissue samples of the lizards, using the non invasive technique of buccal swabbing, for future accompanied DNA research.
This is our fourth report in a series on our whereabouts while collecting data for a future revision of the present subspecific order of the endemic Balearic sisterspecies Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) and Podarcis pityusensis (BOSCÁ, 1883), which data are stored in our free accessible database at www.pityusensis.nl (VAN DEN BERG & ZAWADZKI 2011 ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2013 ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2014). During this trip from the 22nd of May untill the 6th of June 2014, we were able to collect data on various mainland Ibiza locations, as well as the following adjacent islands; Tagomago, Dau Gran, Negra Llevant, Bosc de Conillera, Conillera, Espartar, S’Espardell de S’Espartar, and Escui de S’Espartar. We also visited Escui de Cala d’Hort, and can confirm this rock is without lizards. We also introduce a simplified representation of the ventral coloration as a possible determining key.
Berg, M.P. van den & Zawadzki, M. & Kroniger, M. (2015) -
We report on our visit to the largest of the Ses Margalides islands during our spring 2015 herpetological trip to Ibiza. The island habitat is described, the herpetological history of the Podarcis pityusensis population on this island is summarized, and additional data of this population is given. Among this new data are pictures of red bellied green backed lizards, blue lizards, and a description of a light gray color morph, all previously unknown to this population.
This is our fifth report in a series on our whereabouts while collecting data for a future revision of the present subspecific order of the endemic Balearic sisterspecies Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) and Podarcis pityusensis (BOSCÁ, 1883), which data are stored in our free accessible database at www.pityusensis.nl (VAN DEN BERG & ZAWADZKI 2011 ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2013 ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2014a ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2014b). During this trip from the 9th of May until the 23rd of May 2015, we were able to collect data on a few mainland Ibiza locations, as well as the following adjacent islands: Punta Galera, Es Canaret, Illa de la Xanga (Sal Rossa), Pouet de Ses Illetes, Formentera, Purroig, Es Vedrà, Rates, Malví Pla (North), Malví Rodó (South), S’Espardell, Calders, Penjats and Ses Margalides. We continue with the ventral coloration as a possible determining key as introduced in our 2014 trip report (VAN DEN BERG et al. 2014b). Images of the anal shields are presented of each lizard for purposes of illustration.
Berg, M.P. van den & Zawadzki, M. & Kroniger, M. (2016) -
A short introduction and a hypothetical model concerning color formation in lacertid lizards is presented. Thereafter we observe and discus the ontogenetic changes in a single female captive bred Podarcis pityusensis lizard from Formentera (Balearic islands/Spain). Striking transformations concerning coloration are observed.
This is already our sixth report in a series on our whereabouts while collecting data for a future revision of the present subspecific order of the endemic Balearic sisterspecies Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) and Podarcis pityusensis (BOSCÁ, 1883), which data are stored in our database at www.pityusensis.nl (VAN DEN BERG & ZAWADZKI 2011 ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2013 ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2014a ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2014b ; VAN DEN BERG et al. 2015). During this trip from the 27th of March until the 9th of April 2016, we were able to collect data at some mainland Ibiza locations, as well as on the following adjacent islands: Sa Mesquida, S’Hort, S’Illeta de Cala Salada, Vedranell, Rates, Bleda Plana, Murada, Bleda Na Bosc and S’Espardell de S’Espartar. We continue with the ventral coloration as a possible determining key as introduced in our 2014 trip report (VAN DEN BERG et al. 2014b). Images of the anal shields are presented of each lizard for purposes of illustration.
Berg, P. & Berg, R. (2010) -
Berger-Dell`Mour, H. (1986) -
Between 1976 and 1980, 345 reptiles and amphibians were collected by members of the Austrian UN-peace-force. These animals are listed and their localities cited. Two lizards and one snake (Ophisops elegans MÉNÉTIER, Agama ruderata OLIVIER, Telescopus fallax FLEISCHMANN) are discussed, their systematic status being uncertain.
Berger-Dell`Mour, H.A.E. & Mayer, W. (1989) -
Berger-Dell´Mour, H. (1996) -
In the central Namib desert (Southwest Africa), two morphologically very similar sibling species of lizards (Pediopllanis undata inornata, P. husabensis) live together along a parapatric distribution border. Especially the young specimens of both taxa are strikinly similar. Only P. husabensis takes young lizards of either species as prey, thus performing as a true `cannibal`, while P. u. inornata has developed a code of conduct, sparing is own young as well as those of the sibling species. A proposed advantage of the cannibalistic species in competitive coevolution is dicussed.
Berger-Dell´Mour, H.A.E. & Mayer, W. (1989) -
In the course of a survey of the reptile fauna in the central Namib desert near the lower reaches of the rivers Khan and Swakop a yet undescribed lizard of the Pedioplanis undata complex was found to exist parapatrically with Pedioplanis undata inornata. Pro- nounced discontinuity of morphological and biochemical features of the specimens of the contact area proves that the new form is genetically sufficiently separated from Pedioplanis undata to be regarded as a species of its own {Pedioplanis husabensis n. sp.)
Berger, H. (1999) -
Bergier, P. & Qninba, A. & Thevenot, M. (2011) -
Bergle, R.D. (1970) -
Berglind, S.A. (1988) -
Four subpopulations of the Sandlizard are known. All are restricted to areas of undulating topography. Their habitat is characterized by patches of bare sand, sun-exposed during a major part of the day, and relatively open areas dominated by heather, grasses (one locality) and shrubs. This habitat occurs at a very small scale; in the form of: 1) south-facing banks of two forest tarns; 2) two small, sandy remnants of a forest fire; 3) some forest ride verges; 4) a powerline corridor; and 5) a grass-grown sandpit. The area of suitable habitat varies between the four localities from 0.1 to 1 ha. They are mainly surrounded by plantations of 20-40 year old pines, within which almost no lizards have been observed.
Berglind, S.A. (1995) -
Berglind, S.A. (1999) -
Berglind, S.A. (2000) -
The sand lizard Lacerta agilis has declined in most of north-western Europe during the last decades, mainly due to loss and fragmentation of its habitat. The species reaches the northern periphery of its range in central Sweden, with a few, isolated relict populations restricted to large, sandy areas dominated by pine forest. Six local populations within one of these areas were censused during 1984-1998. Two populations went extinct and the remaining four declined, each with less than ten adult females left in 1998. Efficient afforestation and fire suppression seem to be the most important factors behind the recent decline of the species, having reduced the amount of open, suitable habitat. Life table analysis of two populations implied an average 6% decline and 3% increase in population size per year, respectively (λ = 0.94 and 1.03). Simulations of stochastic future population growth for 20 yr with no management predicted a 39% and 8% risk of extinction, respectively. Projected risks of population extinction and decline were highly dependent on the population growth rate, which in turn was greatly affected by the estimates of juvenile survival. Elasticity analysis demonstrated that this latter demographic parameter contributed most to population growth rate under asymptotic conditions. Simulations of five different conservation management options ranked a programme of captive raising (increased juvenile survival in captivity during the first hibernation) or captive breeding (using a breeding stock from the two populations, respectively), in parallel with habitat management, potentially to be the most effective options to drastically reduce the risk of extinction and decline.
Berglind, S.A. (2004) -
When habitat loss and fragmentation have caused local populations to become so isolated that among-population dispersal no longer occurs, habitat restoration and reintroduction at the scale of metapopulations should be considered. The potential for metapopulation establishment of the endangered sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) in a sandy pine heath reserve in central Sweden was explored by modelling the effect of differences in: 1) patch size, 2) number of patches, 3) number of introduced juveniles, and 4) among-patch dispersal. My basic model is presented as a spatially explicit, age-structured, stochastic metapopulation model, and it is parameterized with long-term demographic data from two local populations inhabiting the area subject for this study. Simulations of population growth for 50 years showed that the quasi-extinction risk (threshold < 10 females) was > 56% for patches < 1 ha; which is the average size of suitable habitat for inhabited patches during the past 10 years. The quasi-extinction risk decreased to < 6% for patches > 5 ha. Extinction risks decreased with larger propagule size of introduced juveniles and with increasing number of annual introductions. The same total number of introduced juveniles gave roughly the same extinction risk irrespective of if these individuals were placed in 1 patch or divided into several patches in highly correlated, managed metapopulation networks. Dispersal was not important to reduce extinction risks over a 50-year horizon for these types of metapopulation networks. Given that the supply of juveniles for release is limited, it seems that a wise strategy may be to introduce juveniles for three successive years into one patch in each of several metapopulation networks to minimize correlation among the initial populations. Dispersal was probably much more important in the past landscape, with a natural forest fire regime and extensive human activities like forest grazing by cattle, that created spatiotemporal variation in growth rates within sand lizard metapopulation networks. Yet, the potential for substantial dispersal also within future restored networks is important for colonization of empty patches (assuming that juveniles are not introduced into all patches in each network), and for metapopulation persistence on longer, evolutionary time-scales.
Pine heath forests on sandy sediments occur as `biotope islands` all over Fennoscandia. An important component of the biodiversity within such pine heaths is early successional species restricted to open patches with sparsely vegetated sand. Surveys of the endangered sand lizard Lacerta agilis on a regional scale in south-central Sweden showed that populated pine heaths were significantly larger (median area 65 km²) than those where the species was absent (median area 5 km²). No effect of pine heath isolation was found. Moreover, on a landscape scale, occupied habitat patches within individual pine heaths were significantly larger than patches where the sand lizard had recently gone extinct. Patch isolation had no significant effect. Furthermore, an analysis of presence/absence of ground-nesting spider wasps (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) on sandy pine heaths of different size showed that species composition was significantly nested. The highest diversity, of all species and red-listed ones, was found on the largest pine heaths, in sympatry with the sand lizard. It is argued that only the largest sandy pine heaths have provided historical continuity of suitable early successional habitat patches with exposed sand for the most dispersal-limited species. Because of forest fire suppression and afforestation since the beginning of the 20th century, many early successional species in sandy pine heath forests are now threatened due to loss of such patches. To provide habitat for these species, measures to re-create early successional patches must be taken. The sand lizard can be used as a cross-taxonomic umbrella species for red-listed spider wasps and other early successional species. However, to preserve the existing threatened biodiversity within a given pine heath (including the many pine heaths where the sand lizard is absent), a strategy of multiple umbrella species and demarcation of patches with key habitat components is needed.
Berglind, S.A. (2005) -
Berglind, S.A. & Gullberg, A. & Olsson, M. (2004) -
Bergman, J. (1990) -
Bergman, J. (1995) -
Während eines dreitägigen Aufenthaltes wurde die Herpetofauna von Skiathos (Nördliche Sporaden, Griechenland) untersucht. Insgesamt konnten drei Schlangen- und drei bzw. vier Echsenarten (Coluber najadum, Elaphe situla, Malpolon monspessulanus, Ophisaurus apodus, Podarcis erhardii, Lacerta triliniata und vermutlich Lacerta viridis) beobachtet werden. Eine Schlangenart (Elaphe situla) und zwei Echsenarten (Ophisaurus apodus und Podaras erhardii) sind Erstnachweise für Skiathos.
Bergmann, F. & Fritz, K. (2002) -
The distribution of the Western Green Lizard in Baden-Württemberg ist restricted to the Kaiserstuhl-area and the Tuniberg, a hillside few kilometres south of the Kaiserstuhl-area. In this article we describe new records of the species at the western slopes of the Tuniberg, suggesting that Western Green Lizards are more widespread at the hillside as formerly supposed. However, population density at the western slopes seems to be rather small as suggested by the low numbers of individuals found. Habitats inhabitated by the species do not differ from those of the Kaiserstuhl-area. Since the area between Kaiserstuhl and Tuniberg hill contains no suitable habitats for Western Green Lizards, contacts between both populations are rather unlikely.
Bergmann, J. & Norström, M. (1990) -
New or omitted records of Podarcis taurica from the asiatic part of Turkey are reported (east of Istanbul: ~ile and Adapazari).
Bergmann, P.J. & Pettionelli, K.J. & Crockett, M.E. & Schaper, E.G. (2017) -
Animals must cope with and be able to move effectively on a variety of substrates. Substrates composed of granular media, such as sand and gravel, are extremely common in nature, and vary tremendously in particle size and shape. Despite many studies of the properties of granular media and comparisons of locomotion between granular and solid substrates, the effects of systematically manipulating these media on locomotion is poorly understood. We studied granular media ranging over four orders of magnitude in particle size, and differing in the amount of particle shape variation, to determine how these factors affected substrate physical properties and sprinting in the generalist lizard Eremias arguta. We found that media with intermediate particle sizes had high bulk densities, low angles of stability and low load-bearing capacities. Rock substrates with high shape variation had higher values for all three properties than glass bead substrates with low shape variation. We found that E. arguta had the highest maximum velocities and accelerations on intermediate size particles, and higher velocities on rock than glass beads. Lizards had higher stride frequencies and lower duty factors on intermediate particle size substrates, but their stride lengths did not change with substrate. Our findings suggest that sand and gravel may represent different locomotor challenges for animals. Sand substrates provide animals with an even surface for running, but particles shift underfoot. In contrast, gravel particles are heavy, so move far less underfoot, yet provide the animal with an uneven substrate.
Bergmans, W. (1964) -
Bergmans, W. (1984) -
Of the 14 published and 3 as yet unpublished Dutch localities of the Wall Lizard, Lacerta mura- lis (Laurenti, 1768), only Maastricht can be given credit. The species reached that locality in histori- cal times, via the east bank of the river Maas. If there were ever any Wall Lizards on Sint-Pie- tersberg, a marl hill south of Maastricht, they pro- bably reached the hill by way of Maastricht, rather than the other way around. Because of the pre- sence of suitable dispersal routes, i.e. stony or rocky slopes with sun-exposed spots, amidst fo- rests, and of favourable climatic conditions, one might be led to expect that the species should be found in other localities in southern Zuid-Limburg - especially in the western part where summers are relatively dry. North of this region there are no dispersal routes and climatic conditions gradually worsen. However, material from Slenaken and Valkenburg, originally identified as Lacerta mura- lis, proved to respresent Lacerta vivipara Jacquin, 1787. The locality Epen, published with reservati- on, was subsequently rejected by the same au- thor. Data concerning an observation at Bemelen indicate Lacerta vivipara. The same goes for an unpublished observation in the surroundings of Valkenburg. A quite recent observation at Meche- len calls for confirmation. An unpublished archive not on an observation at Noorbeek does not indi- cate Lacerta muralis.
Bergmans, W. & Zuiderwijk, A. (1986) -
Berman, D.I. & Bulakhiova, N.A. & Alfimov, A.V. & Meshcheryakova, E.N. (2016) -
The common lizard Zootoca vivipara has the largest range of all the terrestrial reptiles which includes the subarctic regions of the Palaearctic. The species provides a unique model for studying the strategies of adaptation of a reptile to extreme low winter temperatures. The aim of our research was to determine whether this species survives the severe winters of Siberia, including Yakutia, due to its exceptional cold hardiness or due to wintering in abnormally warm places. The cold hardiness limit of lizards from the southeast of Western Siberia was lower than in conspecific European populations (-4 _C) and was the record low for all adult reptiles. In dry substrate (water content 13–14 %), 21 % of lizards survived at temperatures from -3 to -10 _C, but in wet substrate (70–80 %) none of them survived even at slightly below-zero temperatures. The survivors remained in a supercooled state until the temperature dropped to about -3 _C, and then they froze and could remain frozen for over 2 months. In most biotopes examined in the southeast of Western Siberia, soil temperatures at the depth of the lizard hibernacula (5–13 cm) were higher than -10 _C. Despite very cold air, similar winter soil temperatures were recorded in the warmest lizard habitats in Yakutia, due to the soilheating effect of unfrozen groundwater in talik zones. Thus, extensive distribution of the common lizard in Yakutia is determined not only by its exceptional cold hardiness but also by specific hydrogeological conditions maintaining winter soil temperatures above its tolerance limit.
Bermejo Garcia, A. (2015) -
Bernabò, I. & Boldrini, N. & Sperone, E. & Amendola, L. & Pellegrino, F. & Leonetti, F. & Iantorno, A. & Paolillo, G. & Tripepi, S. (2021) -
Bernecker, K. (1988) -
Bernini, F. & Bonini, L. & Ferri, V. & Gentilli, A. & Razzetti, E. & Scali, S. (2004) -
Bernini, F. & Candiotto, A. & Nardi, P.A. & Rossi, S. & Razzetti, E. (2006) -
The authors report on predation by salmonid fish on some reptile species in two tributaries of the Tanaro river in the Alessandria province (NW Italy). The remains of Podarcis muralis, Anguis fragilis and of an undetermined colubrid of the genus Natrix were found in bromatological analyses performed on 117 Oncorhynchus mykiss specimens. Salmonid predation on herpetofauna once again confirms the alimentary opportunism of these fishes; however, predation is an occasional phenomenon and not a threat to the local reptile populations.
Bernsen, P.L.J.A. (1988) -
Berrilli, E. & Gambioli, B. & Bombi, P. & Garzia, M. & Murado, M. & Pardo, C. & Reale, M. & Sherpa, S. & Ficetola, G.F. & Vignoli, L. & Salvi, D. (2024) -
The common practice of using subspecies as conservation targets raises the question of whether efforts are focused on preserving conspicuous components of the species’ phenotypic variability rather than evolutionarily significant units. To address this question, in this study we performed a comprehensive morphological and genetic assessment on all the subspecies of wall lizard described for the Aeolian Archipelago (Italy) to determine whether they represent distinct evolutionary lineages and/or discrete phenotypic partitions. Further, we applied a monophyly test to 70 subspecies belonging to seven wall lizard species occurring in Italy, based on our results and on previous phylogeographic studies. We found that none of the Aeolian subspecies represents a distinct evolutionary lineage, despite some morphological differentiation of island populations across the archipelago, suggesting a very recent origin of island populations and of the observed phenotype variation. Across seven wall lizard species, tests revealed that lizard subspecies rarely (< 9% of cases) match evolutionary units. This study demonstrates that intraspecifictaxonomy of wall lizards is a poor predictor of phylogeographic partitions and evolutionary units, and therefore of limited use (if not dangerous) for defining conservation and management units. A better approach would be relying on the integration of genomic and phenotypic data to assess the evolutionary significance and conservation value of phenotypic and genetic units within species.
Berrilli, E. & Simbula, G. (2020) -
Berroneau, M. (2010) -
Berroneau, M. (2012) -
Berroneau, M. & Berroneau, M. & Coic, C. (2017) -
Berroneau, M. & Mokuenko, M. & Petit, J. (2021) -
Several individuals of the Italian lizard Podarcis siculus have been discovered in the southwest of France, in Gradignan, south of Bordeaux. The animals are installed in the heart of a large plant store, and have been probably introduced via the importation of olive trees. The presence of males and females, with reproduction behavior, suggests the possible establishment of a small population in the short to medium term if no measures of control are implemented.
Berroneau, M. & Reinach Hirtzbach, J. de & Tillo, S. (2012) -
Geographic range of Podarcis liolepis sebastiani (Klemmer, 1964) (Squamata, Lacertidae) in France. The Catalonian wall lizard, Podarcis liolepis, is a Mediterranean species that can be mainly found in France around the Mediterranean belt. In Aquitaine, the subspecies Podarcis liolepis sebastiani enters from Spain on the French Basque country slope. Until now, studies on French ter- ritory have restricted the species to a few localities along the Spanish border. Since spring 2010, specif- ic surveys have been undertaken in the scope of the Atlas of amphibians and reptiles of Aquitaine. Based on our results, the species is widespread in the French Basque country as far as 30 km north from the Spanish-French border. Moreover, the presence of the Catalonian wall lizard has been confirmed in the East of the department of Pyrénées-Atlantiques, in the Aspe Valley. This latter finding suggests new interesting hypotheses about the ancient colonization paths of the species on the northern slope of the Western Pyrenees.
Bersch, C. (1893) -
Berthold, A.A. (1840) -
Berthold, A.A. (1850) -
Bertók, P. (2014) -
Understanding the evolutionary background of consistent individual differences in behaviour (animal personality in single, behavioural syndrome across multiple behaviours) is a prime aim of current evolutionary behavioural ecology. Properly assessing true fitness is notoriously hard, especially in the wild. One way to circumvent this problem is to use quality-indicator traits as fitness proxies. Hence, studying the link between behavioural consistency and quality-indicator traits can be an important step in the evolutionary analysis of behavioural consistency. In the study outlined in my thesis, we studied whether wild-caught, adult male Iberolacerta cyrenii (Squamata: Lacertidae) had personality and showed behavioural syndrome, and whether behavioural consistency was linked to potentially quality-indicator traits. We analysed both behavioural types (mean behaviour) and individual behavioural variation (standard deviation around the mean). Lizards in the study population showed high behavioural consistency both within and across activity and risk-taking, indicating the presence of animal personality and behavioural syndrome. More active individuals were less consistent than their passive conspecifics, while more risk- taking lizards were more consistent than the risk-averse ones. Activity was positively related to total brightness, while risk-taking was positively related to relative tibia length and number of femoral pores. The complex behavioural variable including both activity and risk-taking was positively related to relative tibia length and number of femoral pores, but negatively to the number of lateral blue spots. Consistency of risk-taking showed positive condition-dependence. Our results are pioneering in reptiles, which are a promising model for the future. Due to the correlative nature of our study, making clear cause-causative interpretations of the numerous behaviour – potential quality-indicator trait links is impossible, they are still suggestive of important evolutionary mechanism. Hence, our results form a springboard for targeted manipulative experiments in the future.
Bertolucci, C. & Foa, A. & Van´t Hof, T.J. (2002) -
We examined melatonin profiles of ruin lizards in different seasons (spring, summer, and autumn) under light: dark (LD) and concomitant responses when transferred to continuous darkness (DD) to determine the degree to which previously reported seasonally dependent effects of pinealectomy on locomotor behavior are related to melatonin secretion. The amplitude of the melatonin rhythm and the amount of melatonin produced over 24 h varied with season. In spring, the amount of melatonin produced was greatest and the amplitude 4– 5 times that found in summer or autumn. The degree of self-sustainment of the melatonin rhythm when transferred to DD also varied with season. In DD, melatonin levels remained high but did not exhibit circadian variation in spring. In summer, the melatonin profile persisted virtually unchanged in DD, showing the existence of a circadian rhythm. Finally, in the fall there was no circadian variation in DD and levels remained low. These responses correspond closely to previously reported effects of pinealectomy on locomotor behavior where there is little or no effect of pinealectomy in spring or fall but a profound alteration of locomotor behavior in summer. These results suggest that the seasonally dependent effects of pinealectomy on locomotor behavior in ruin lizards are related to a seasonally mediated change in the degree of self-sustainment of some component of the circadian pace-making system of which melatonin plays some role.
Bertolucci, C. & Frigato, E. & Foà, A. (2017) -
Among vertebrates, reptiles are one of the most interesting taxa to understand the evolution of the circadian system to different ecological niches. Here we summarize the current knowledge about the circadian system of reptiles. In detail, paragraph 3 analyzes studies concerning the existence of peripheral and central circadian oscillators in reptiles, with complementary data gathered using molecular, physiological, and behavioral approaches, particularly, the role of SCN and the reactions of both central and peripheral oscillators to drastic changes in ambient temperatures. In paragraph 4, as it is peculiar to other nonmammalian vertebrates, also lizards, behavioral and hormonal rhythms (particularly melatonin) can be entrained by extraretinal and deep brain photoreceptors, whose position in the brain seems to vary somewhat in different lizard species. In paragraph 5, the seasonal changes in circadian organization are analyzed in fine detail in the ruin lizard Podarcis sicula, a species in which most research on seasonality has be done. Paragraph 6 reports some data on the role of ambient light irradiance in the circadian organization. Paragraph 7 deals with problems of orientation in space, with particular interest in celestial compass mechanisms which need a functional circadian clock to work properly. In this context recent results are reported on the functioning of both sun and sky polarization compasses and the pivotal role played by the parietal eye in those mechanisms of orientation. Paragraph 8 reports conclusion and perspectives.
Bertolucci, C. & Leorati, M. & Innocenti, A. & Foà, A. (1999) -
The daily pattern of locomotor activity of Podarcis sicula in the field changes from unimodal in spring to bimodal in summer, becoming unimodal again in autumn. Short-term experiments in which P. sicula collected in different months were tested under constant conditions immediately after capture showed that the activity pattern typical of each season is retained in the lizard circadian locomotor rhythm. In constant conditions, the bimodal pattern is associated with a short free-running period (τ) of the circadian locomotor rhythm and a long circadian activity (α), while the unimodal pattern is associated with a long τ and short α. To test whether seasonal changes in circadian locomotor rhythms are driven by a circannual clock, we recorded locomotor activity of lizards over 12–15 months in constant temperature and darkness. The present results demonstrate, for the first time in a vertebrate, the existence of circannual changes in constant darkness of both τ and α. In most lizards, the longest τ along its circannual cycle is associated with a short α, and the shortest τ in the same cycle with a long α, so that the pattern of mutual association between τ and α is the same as in short-term experiments. Most lizards, however, stayed unimodal all the time. This shows that changes in activity pattern from unimodal to bimodal (and vice versa) are induced by seasonal changes in environmental factors, instead of being incorporated into a circannual rhythm. Circannual changes in τ and α of locomotor rhythms may adaptively predispose the circadian system of P. sicula to a change in activity pattern as soon as seasonal changes in the environment demand it.
Bertolucci, C. & Wagner, G. & Foà, A. & Gwinner, E. & Brandstätter, R. (2003) -
The pineal gland and its major output signal melatonin have been demonstrated to play a central role in the seasonal organization of the ruin lizard Podarcis sicula. Seasonal variations in the amplitude of the nocturnal melatonin signal, with high values in spring as compared to low values in summer and autumn, have been found in vivo. The authors examined whether the pineal gland of the ruin lizard contains autonomous circadian oscillators controlling melatonin synthesis and whether previously described seasonal variations of in vivo melatonin production can also be found in isolated cultured pineal glands obtained from ruin lizards in summer and winter. In vitro melatonin release from isolated pineal glands of the ruin lizard persisted for 4 days in constant conditions. Cultured explanted pineal glands obtained from animals in winter and summer showed similar circadian rhythms of melatonin release, characterized by damping of the amplitude of the melatonin rhythm. Although different photoperiodic conditions were imposed on ruin lizards before explantation of pineal glands, the authors did not find any indication for corresponding differences in the duration of elevated melatonin in vitro. Differences were found in the amplitude of in vitro melatonin production in light/dark conditions and, to a lesser degree, in constant conditions. The presence of a circadian melatonin rhythm in vitro in winter, although such a rhythm is absent in vivo in winter, suggests that pineal melatonin production is influenced by an extrapineal oscillator in the intact animal that may either positively or negatively modulate melatonin production in summer and winter, respectively.
Bertoni, G. (1913) -
Bertram, N.A. (2004) -
Determining the past, present and future effects of alien species on native biodiversity is a globally recognized problem. The Wall Lizard, Podarcis muralis, was introduced to Vancouver Island from Europe in 1970. To assess potential competitive interactions with the native Northern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria coerulea), I investigated several aspects of P. muralis ecology. D i h i o n along manmade corridors (e.g. roads and powerlines) and human-facilitated jump dispersal are contributing to range expansion; three separate populations currently exist. Reproductive output of P. muralis was not affected by amount eaten while gravid, but feeding level and incubation temperature affected offspring phenotypes. In comparative tests of locomotor performance, P. muralis was faster than Z. coerulea, but only at moderate temperatures. I found no effect of P. muralis dour on E. coeruela behaviour, but E. coeruela avoided cover objects that housed P. muralis. These two species use similar habitats, but were found on different substrates and mesoslopes. Based on the results of these experiments there is a potential for comvetition between these two lizard species.
Beşer, N. & Ilgaz, Ç. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Avci, A. & Candan, K. & Üzüm, N. (2019) -
Within reptiles, lizards cover less area across the globe than snakes do. One out of every seven known species of lizards in the world is found only in its type locality. Acanthodactylus harranensis Baran, Kumlutaş, Lanza, Sindaco, Ilgaz, Avcı & Crucitti, 2005, is one of these species. It is an endemic lizard species in Turkey with a very small area of occupancy and is listed in the critically endangered category (CR) by the IUCN. Here we document the age structure and body size of A. harranensis using skeletochronological methods for the first time and aim to point out current problems and contribute to an understanding of its demography. The mean age of males was found to be significantly higher than that of females. The maximum life span was 10 years in males while it was 9 years in females. The 8-year-old age group contained a higher number of individuals than any other age group. The mean snout-vent length of specimens was not significantly different between the sexes. As in many other lizards, A. harranensis exhibits a low-level male-biased sexual dimorphism. Acanthodactylus harranensis also displayed a considerably bigger body size than other studied lacertids from Şanlıurfa province. The data presented in this study may contribute to future conservation efforts for this endangered species.
Beser, N. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutas, Y. & Candan, K. & Güclü, Ö. & Üzüm, N. (2020) -
The age and growth in two breeding populations of A. danfordi, inhabiting altitudes ranging from 678 m a.s.l. to 1200 m a.s.l. in Turkey, were investigated. The age differences between sexes were not statistically significant in either population. The mean age was calculated as 8.73 ± 2.12 and 8.33 ± 1.8 years in Kozan and 7.25 ± 1.58 and 5.78 ± 1.64 years in Saimbeyli for males and females, respectively. The age distributions of males did not statistically differ between populations, but females in Kozan were significantly older than those in Saimbeyli. The mean snout-vent length (SVL) difference between sexes was not significant in the Kozan population, whereas males were significantly longer than females in Saimbeyli. However, SVL was similar between the populations. Intersexual differences in body size were found to be male-biased for both populations. There was a positive and statistically significant relationship between SVL and age in both populations. This study examines the feasibility of the use of skeletochronology for A. danfordi. It also shows that these populations are getting older and this may endanger the future of A. danfordi in a warming world. Some life history parameters and population structures of A. danfordi are provided in this study but some questions still remain.
Beshkov, V. (0000) -
Beshkov, V. & Beron, P. (1964) -
Beshkov, V. & Dushkov, D. (1981) -
Beshkov, V. & Nanev, K. (2006) -
Bestion, E. & Clobert, J. & Cote, J. (2015) -
Range shift, a widespread response to climate change, will depend on species abilities to withstand warmer climates. However, these abilities may vary within species and such intraspecific variation can strongly impact species responses to climate change. Facing warmer climates, individuals should disperse according to their thermal optimum with consequences for species range shifts. Here, we studied individual dispersal of a reptile in response to climate warming and preferred temperature using a semi-natural warming experiment. Individuals with low preferred temperatures dispersed more from warmer semi-natural habitats, whereas individuals with higher preferred temperatures dispersed more from cooler habitats. These dispersal decisions partly matched phenotype-dependent survival rates in the different thermal habitats, suggesting adaptive dispersal decisions. This process should result into a spatial segregation of thermal phenotypes along species moving ranges which should facilitate local adaptation to warming climates. We therefore call for range shift models including intraspecific variation in thermal phenotype and dispersal decision.
Bestion, E. & Jacob, S. & Zinger, L. & Gesu L. di & Murielle, R. & Cote, J. (2017) -
Climate change is now considered to be the greatest threat to biodiversity and ecological networks, but its impacts on the bacterial communities associated with plants and animals remain largely unknown. Here, we studied the consequences of climate warming on the gut bacterial communities of an ectotherm, the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), using a semi-natural experimental approach. We found that 2–3 °C warmer climates cause a 34% loss of populations’ microbiota diversity, with possible negative consequences for host survival.
Bestion, E. & San-Jose, L.M. & Gesu, L. di & Richard, M. & Sinervo, B. & Cote, J. & Calvez, O. & Guillaume, O. & Cote, J. (2023) -
Facing warming environments, species can exhibit plastic or microevolutionary changes in their thermal physiology to adapt to novel climates. Here, using semi-natural mesocosms, we experimentally investigated over two successive years whether a 2°C-warmer climate produces selective and inter- and intragenerational plastic changes in the thermal traits (preferred temperature and dorsal coloration) of the lizard Zootoca vivipara. In a warmer climate, the dorsal darkness, dorsal contrast, and preferred temperature of adults plastically decreased and covariances between these traits were disrupted. While selection gradients were overall weak, selection gradients for darkness were slightly different between climates and in the opposite direction to plastic changes. Contrary to adults, male juveniles were darker in warmer climates either through plasticity or selection and this effect was strengthened by intergenerational plasticity when juveniles’ mothers also experienced warmer climates. While the plastic changes in adult thermal traits alleviate the immediate overheating costs of warming, its opposite direction to selective gradients and to juveniles’ phenotypic responses may slow down evolutionary shifts toward phenotypes that are better adapted to future climates. Our study demonstrates the importance of considering inter- and intragenerational plasticity along with selective processes to better understand adaptation and population dynamics in light of climate change.
Bestion, E. & Teyssier, A. & Aubret, F. & Clobert, J. & Cote, J. (2014) -
Predation is a strong selective pressure generating morphological, physiological and behavioural responses in organisms. As predation risk is often higher during juvenile stages, antipredator defences expressed early in life are paramount to survival. Maternal effects are an efficient pathway to produce such defences. We investigated whether maternal exposure to predator cues during gestation affected juvenile morphology, behaviour and dispersal in common lizards (Zootoca vivipara).We exposed 21 gravid females to saurophagous snake cues for one month while 21 females remained unexposed (i.e. control). We measured body size, preferred temperature and activity level for each neonate, and released them into semi-natural enclosures connected to corridors in order to measure dispersal. Offspring from exposed mothers grew longer tails, selected lower temperatures and dispersed thrice more than offspring from unexposed mothers. Because both tail autotomy and altered thermoregulatory behaviour are common antipredator tactics in lizards, these results suggest that mothers adjusted offspring phenotype to risky natal environments (tail length) or increased risk avoidance (dispersal). Although maternal effects can be passive consequences of maternal stress, our results strongly militate for them to be an adaptive antipredator response that may increase offspring survival prospects.
Betta, E. de (1857) -
Betta, E. de (1863) -
Betta, E. de (1868) -
Betta, E. de (1878) -
Betta, E. de (1879) -
Bettencourt Ferreira, J. (1892) -
Bettencourt Ferreira, J. (1895) -
Bettencourt Ferreira, J. (1897) -
Bettencourt-Ferreira, J. (1903) -
Bettoni, E. (1868) -
Beukema, W. (2007) -
Beutler, A. & Frör, E. (1980) -
Cyrtodactylus kotschyi tinensig n. subsp. is olescribed as ä hew subspecies from Tinos. This subspecies is distinguished from C. k. saronicus by the larger number of tubercles on the thigh. lt` is distributed on Andros too, while Ce k. kotschyi occurs on the Syros-Archipelago, and intermediate popülations between C. k, tinensis n. subsp. and C. k. saronicus ranging over Seriphos, Jyaros, Myconos, Naxe, Ikaria and the adjacent Islands. From-Ikaria, Agama stellio daani n. subsp. is described. It differs from A. s. stellio in its blackish grey instead of yellow or red head, the dark spotted throat and in serological characters. All ^^ A» s`^1^0 whi0^ h-as tieen added to the nominate sub- sp ecTe^~Toj^iirly belong to this subspecies, beside those of the Mycpnos-Archipelago which have to remain to A.s, stellio. The Podarcis erhardi from Syros and Stapod`ia do not belong to P. e. `mykoriensis; they intermediate between this subspecies and` P.e. naxensis. Also Matrix natriy from the Northern Cyclades`does not belong to` N. n^persa but intermediate between this rac?e and H. n> schw`eizerT7 The green`lizards of Tinos are Lacgrta triliheata; this race, now named L. t. citrovittata occurs also on Andros and probably on Mycöno s toQ,`while the L. trilineata of Syros belong to the same race as those from Naxe.` The records of ERHARD, V. HELPREICH and ERBER (partly) were omitted out of the qhecklist as very doubtful. Tab. 2 Shows which kinds of amphibians and reptiles occur on the Northern Cyclades`. The following species were first recorded fropi several Islands in th^s paper: Cyrtodactylus kotschyi (Tragonisi), Hemidae-frylus turcicus (Aridros, Tinos, Hyconos, Jyaros), Agamä^atglljo (Riniaj, PocLarcIs erhardi (Tragonisi, Stapodia, Cherrönisi, Strongylo~7 Schinonisi, Aspronisi, Hegalo and Hikro Gaidaronisi), Ablepharus kitaibelii (Jyaros, Rinia), Elaphe situla (Tinos), Elaphe quatuor—^ `Ij.nea.tj9. (Tipps), Natrlx`.hätriy (Tinos), Confirination is givep` `to many recörds, especially from the last Century (s, £ig. 1, tab. 2). The herpetofaunas of Andros, Tinos and the Myconos- Archipelago are y^ry similar, while that of Syros resembles more those of the Centra,! Cyclades. In summing up the differences between the Northern Cyclades and the •Western or Central Cyclades are rather small. The herpetofauna of Ikaria is rather similar to that of the Northern Cyclades too. But there are large differences between the herpeto- fauna of the Cyclades and that of the mainland and Euboee. In the case of the amphibians and reptiles, the wetland and the terrassed fields, many of them are abandoned now and give rise to phryganas, ma,cchias and secondary `woodlands with all stages of succession, are the most important habitats. But phryganas and intensively cultivated areas were settled by few species only, and in the towns only Hemidactylus turcicus occurs. More extended rocky areas ^ithbüf äny` Vegetation do not bear any amphibians or reptiles. Those species which are restricted merely to wetlands like Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Rana ridibunda, M caspica, L`acer.ta trilineata ahd Nafrlx natrix are rather `endangered `on the` Northern Cyclades by habitat destruction, and some populations of these species may have disappeared in the meantime.
Beutler, A. & Heckes, U. (1984) -
Beutler, A. & Heckes, U. (1986) -
Beutler, A. & Kaule, G. (1984) -
Beuttner, A. (2019) -
BeVier, G.T. & Ayton, V. & Brock, K.M. (2022) -
Intraspecific colour morphs usually differ in more traits than just colour. These traits can manifest as differences in morph physiology, behaviour, and ecology. Ecological differences among colour morphs, such as the degree of parasitism, can influence the evolution, maintenance, and loss of morphs from populations. High ectoparasite load can directly and deleteriously impact host fitness, and thus could influence colour morph persistence in populations if certain morphs are more frequently exposed to parasites or are more susceptible to parasitism. The Aegean wall lizard, Podarcis erhardii, is a colour polymorphic island lizard that is parasitized externally by ticks and mites. These ectoparasites can affect aspects of host lizard behaviour and physiology – including thermoregulation and body mass – and therefore are an important factor influencing the ecology and fitness of P. erhardii. We find that among sympatric colour morphs, ectoparasite loads differ; namely, monochromatic orange morphs have the highest numbers of ectoparasites, and in general, morphs with orange alleles (orange, orange-white, and orange-yellow) are more heavily parasitized by ticks and mites than the other morphs. Our results indicate that morphs with orange alleles tend to occupy microhabitats with significantly more vegetation cover and thus may increase their exposure to ticks and mites. Ecological differences between morphs could be an important factor contributing to demonstrated patterns of orange morph rarity and loss in P. erhardii populations.
Bevier, G.T. & Brock, K.M. & Foufopoulos, J. (2021) -
The study of island taxa can help reveal the mechanisms of natural selection when it acts on small, isolated populations. To elucidate how small populations evolve in high-competition, low-predation environments, we examined differences in morphological characteristics, tail autotomy rates, and home range sizes in several populations of Aegean Wall Lizards (Podarcis erhardii; Lacertidae) living on one large-island site and three small islet sites. While there was relatively little consistent morphological divergence between the study populations, we did observe significantly higher rates of shed and regenerated tails on predator-free, small-island sites, a counter intuitive pattern for a known antipredator defense. Rather than a sign of failed predation events, this pattern is best explained by the fact that tail-shedding can be precipitated by intraspecific aggression and tail cannibalism, which are known to be particularly frequent on small islands. We also found that small-island female lizards, but not males, maintained significantly smaller home ranges than large-island females. Our results indicate that differences in prevailing ecological conditions (most likely reduced food availability and relaxed predation pressure) drive distinct changes in tail shedding rates and home range size in these island lizards.
Beyer, T.V. (1968) -
Beyer, T.V. & Selinova, G.V. (1969) -
Beyer, W. (2016) -
Beyerlein, P. & Mayer, W. (1999) -
In order to resolve the relationships of Lacerta kulzeri, parts of mitochondrial genes for 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA of samples of the following species were sequenced: Gallotia stehlini (as an outgroup), Lacerta trilineata, L. cappadocica, L. fraasii, L. danfordi, L. rudis, Podarcis peloponnesiaca, as well as representatives of different populations of L. laevis and L. kulzeri. Sequence analysis clearly shows a close relation between L. laevis and L. kulzeri and no close relation of these species to any other representative of the lizards examined. The other species also show themselves to be representatives of very distinct lacertid groups. The resulting sequence differences within L. kulzeri and L. laevis, respectively, are very high in relation to those between the two species, and they are higher than one would expect for species with small areas.
Beyerlein, P. & W. Mayer (1998) -
Beyhl, F.E. (1990) -
Beyhl, F.E. (1997) -
Beyloos, B. & Ven, M. van den (1991) -
Bezaz, Y.I. & Hadjab, R. & Khammar, H. & Redjaimia, L. & M. Saheb (2021) -
This study aims at providing the first faunistic and ecological data on the herpetofauna of the Oum El Bouaghi region. The observation period was spread over two seasons (2018-2019), from mid-March to the end of October. A total of 18 species of reptiles and 4 species of amphibians have been recorded. The data collected were analyzed in terms of the biogeographical and trophic aspects of the herpetofauna of the study area. The region of Oum El Bouaghi has a great herpetofaunistic diversity, which shows how important it is to ensure its protection.
Bhatnagar, A.N. & Yoniss, Y.T. (1976) -
1. The diploid number of chromosomes in Ophisops elegans is 38-36 macro-and 2 micro-chromosomes in the males and 35 macro- and 3 micro-chromosomes in the females. 3. The sex determining mechanism is of the ZZ: ZW type. The Z-chromosomes are represented by the smallest pair of macro-chromosomes and the W-chromosome consists of the micro-chromosome which is even smaller than the pair of micro-chromosomes (pair 19).
Bhatnagar, R.K. & Banotar, R.K. (1973) -
Bhupathy, S. & Chettri, B. & Bauer, A. (2009) -
Takydromus sikkimensis was named in 1888 by A. Günther on the basis of an 1872 description of grass lizards from Sikkim by F. Stoliczka. Subsequent workers have not considered this species valid and have even doubted the occurrence of Takydromus in Sikkim. We confirm the occurrence of grass lizards in the lower Teesta valley of Sikkim. These are consistent with the description of T. sikkimensis and are distinguishable from all other congeners on the basis of having 12 rows of enlarged ventral scales across midbody, three pairs of chin shields, 3–6 femoral pores on each thigh, and color pattern lacking stripes, spots, or ocelli. Because the type specimens are lost, and because there has been a persistent confusion regarding the identity, and even the existence, of the taxon described by A. Günther as T. sikkimensis, we designate a neotype to stabilize the use of the revalidated name.
Bi, J. & Wang, W. & Li, S. & Zeng, Z. (2015) -
Locomotor performance in lizards is strongly affected by structural habitat. Understanding this relationship allows us to predict species distributions across habitat types. However, little information is available about the ecological role of the locomotion of multiocellated racerunner (Eremias multiocellata) in the desert steppe ecosystem of Inner Mongolia, China. Herein, we studied the effects of habitat structure on the locomotor performance of this lizard species in the field. We found that the sprint speed of this lizard declined significantly with increasing vegetation coverage. Manipulative experiments were further conducted to examine the effects of branch barriers and surface substrates on the sprint speed of the lizard. We found that the sprint speed was significantly influenced by the surface substrates and branch barriers, and there were no interactions between them. Branch barriers impeded sprint speed, and E. multiocellata showed better locomotor performance on sandy rather than loamy substrates. Our results indicate that E. multiocellata tends to occupy open areas with sandy substrates, but its locomotor performance is not closely associated with habitat preference.
Biaggini, M. & Berti, R. & Corti, C. (2008) -
A certain habitat may be favourable for a species if inside it suitable conditions for growth, reproduction and survival of that species persist. For oviparous reptiles in particular, the egg-stage can play an important role in determining distribution patterns; however its influence, above all in human altered landscape is scarcely explored. This study, performed in Tuscany, central Italy, investigated the female reproductive success of the lacertid lizard Podarcis siculus campestris inside agricultural habitats. We surveyed vineyards and olive tree plantations showing different agricultural managements: intensive (use of chemicals and machineries) and traditional (no/little amounts of chemical compounds, maintenance of grass soil cover). In six sampling sites we collected a total of 50 females (a minimum of 7 individuals per site) from April to late July 2007, covering the whole annual reproductive period. Females were singly housed in terraria exposed to natural condition of light-dark, ventilation and air temperatures; individuals were daily weighted and terraria were checked at least twice a day for eggs. Soon after deposition eggs were measured and singly weighted on a digital balance to the nearest 0.001g; females were also weighted after oviposition and then released to the site of capture. Our first aim was to examine the mechanism of P. siculus campestris female reproductive investment in the surveyed populations; in a second step, we wanted to verify if such investment was influenced by factors such as land use, agricultural management, external parasite rate and predation pressure (as indicated by the occurrence of regenerated tails). We considered three main variables in the analyses: clutch size, clutch mass and average egg weight (all of them were adjusted for log-maternal SVL and the effects of oviposition period and of the time elapsed between capture and egg laying were controlled). We found that relative fertility (residuals of the regression between clutch size and maternal SVL) was correlated with average egg weight, thus revealing the presence of no trade off between clutch size and average egg weight. Moreover, relative reproductive investment (residuals of the regression between clutch mass and SVL) was positively correlated with both relative fertility and average egg weight. This result “suggests” that females that invest more do it laying both more and heavier eggs. ANCOVA analyses revealed that clutch size and clutch mass were not influenced by land use, land management, deposition period, external parasite rate and regenerated tail occurrence. On the contrary, average egg weight was correlated to the external parasite rate. The obtained results are in agreement with the well known adaptability of P. siculus. In the populations we surveyed the reproductive output was not influenced by very different habitats and levels of anthropic disturbance. Nor this lizard showed a trade- off between clutch size and egg weight, typical in the presence of food availability and habitat constraints.
Cultivated areas in central Italy are very common habitats for the lacertid lizard Podarcis siculus campestris. Land uses, however, can show deeply different characteristics in their structure thus probably bringing important consequences for their inhabitants. In this study we analysed the rate of external parasites (ticks) and the occurrence of regenerated tail (as indicator of predation pressure) in populations of Podarcis siculus campestris living in two different land uses, highly characterizing the Tuscan agricultural landscape (central Italy): vineyards and olive tree plantations. For each land use, in particular, we surveyed two intensively cultivated areas (use of chemicals and machineries) and one “traditionally” managed area (no/little amounts of chemical compounds, maintenance of grass soil cover). A total of 120 lizards were collected from early Spring to Summer. All lizards were measured (SVL and head measures), the amount of ticks was counted and the presence of broken/regenerated or entire tail was recorded; individuals were then released in the same place of their capture. The comparison of SVL among different habitat categories (distinguishing land uses and different managements) did not revealed striking differences: however, both males and females living in the traditionally managed olive tree plantation resulted to be smaller (even if significant differences were found only in some comparisons). As for external parasite rate we found very clear results both in relation to the land use and to the sex of individuals. Lizards with the highest number of ticks were found in the olive tree plantations (both intensively and traditionally managed) while the individuals from vineyards were almost not parasitized by ticks. Males in particular seemed to suffer a higher external parasite pressure. These results seem to agree with other studies in which a preference of ticks for olive trees was highlighted and put in relation with both physical characteristics of the trees (e.g. crumbled bark) and their being visited by hosts (lizards). Regarding the sex ratio of parasitized individuals, other studies demonstrated that male lizards, are more exposed to parasites due to their higher activity rate. The regenerated tail occurrence pattern was much more homogeneous: a very weak difference was found just between sexes (more males than females showed broken/regenerated tail) while land use and management did not seem to influence the predation pressure, at least as revealed by the considered indicator.
Biaggini, M. & Berti, R. & Corti, C. (2009) -
Human agricultural activities can deeply alter the environment thus provoking major impacts on a variety of organisms. Agricultural habitats however can be very different from one another in terms of habitat structure and management intensity, presenting varying pressures and/or benefits for different species. Agro-ecosystems can have opposing effects on reptiles and in some circumstances the presence of a species can even been enhanced by agricultural practices. We focused our study on Podarcis sicula, a relatively widespread lacertid lizard commonly present in agro-environments in Italy. We examined escape behaviour, caudal autotomy rates and ectoparasite load (tick infestation) in populations living in two different land uses, olive tree plantations and vineyards. All three aspects seemed to be deeply influenced by habitat structure. Predation pressure, as evaluated by tail break frequency, was lower in olive tree plantations, the most structurally complex habitats. In this type of habitat lizard escape behaviour was characterised by a clear preference for olive trees as refuges: individuals ran farther distances on average to reach the trees and hid inside them for a relatively long time. In vineyards, on the contrary, a less clear escape strategy was observed, showing a use of more temporary refuges. Also tick (Ixodes ricinus) infestation differed among land uses, being higher in olive tree plantations, probably in relation to vegetation cover features. Differences were found also between managements (with a higher tick load in traditional cultivations) and sexes, with males being more parasitized.
Biaggini, M. & Bombi, P. & Capula, M. & Corti, C. (2011) -
Biaggini, M. & Corti, . (2021) -
New data on the distribution of the herpetofauna of the La Maddalena Archipelago are reported in the present work, together with the available literature. The study reports data on 78 islands, for 19 of these islands the data are unpublished.
Biaggini, M. & Corti, C. (2007) -
Biaggini, M. & Corti, C. (2013) -
Predation is one of the major selective forces in the evolution of many behavioural traits, particularly in animals subjected to high predation rates, like lizards. Many factors as predation pressure and habitat complexity are known to shape escape behaviour in lizards. We investigated if different Podarcis species display a similar escape behaviour under similar environmental conditions. We analyzed data from 9 Mediterranean islets: three in eastern Corsica, three in north-eastern Sardinia, inhabited by Podarcis tiliguerta, and three in the eastern coast of the Adriatic sea, inhabited by P. melisellensis (Pm, n=62). Islets were all small in size (from about 1 to 22 ha), characterised by comparable predation pressure (hosting no potential ground predators, i.e. snakes, rats), and were classified in two categories of habitat structure complexity. We considered two main traits of escape behaviour: flight initiation distance (FID) and distance fled (FLD) (Kruskall-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests were used). P. tiliguerta from Corsica (Ptc, n=97) and from Sardinia (Pts, n=86) were analysed separately following recent studies suggesting substantial morphological and genetical differences between the two groups. Our results highlighted that in Podarcis the level of wariness was quite a variable feature, linked more to population variability than to differences among species. Ptc displayed the longest FID (significantly longer than Pts, P=0.006), probably to compensate with a greater level of awareness its lower locomotory efficiency due to smaller size (Ptc showed the smallest SVL considering the studied islets). FLD, on the contrary, was a less variable trait, likely related to the escape strategy of individuals: Podarcis populations of different species and islets run comparable distances when escaping, and lizards that hid in a refuge run significantly shorter distances than lizards that just stopped without hiding.
Biaggini, M. & Corti, C. (2015) -
Reptile assemblages across agricultural landscapes: where does biodiversity hide?— The transition from traditional to intensive farming, aimed at large–scale production, has rapidly altered agricultural landscapes, leading to the reduction and fragmentation of natural habitats and to the consequent loss of biodiversity. Herpetofauna is seriously threatened by agriculture intensification worldwide, but less is known about its distribution in agro–ecosystems, especially at field scale. We analysed reptile abundance and diversity in eight agricultural and semi–natural land uses, and inside vegetated buffer strips interspersed among fields. Interestingly, most reptiles were recorded in the buffer strips while intensive crops and pastures hosted just one lizard species. Richness of individuals and species increased when strips were connected to semi–natural areas, independently of their width and vegetation structure. In view of our results, that highlight the role of minor landscape features for the presence of vertebrates in intensive agro–ecosystems, we recommend the implementation of buffer strips among the measures for vertebrate conservation in agricultural landscapes.
Biaggini, M. & Corti, C. (2017) -
Human activities cause increasingly deep alterations to natural environments. Yet, the effects on vertebrates with low dispersal capacity are still poorly investigated, especially at field scale. Life history variation represents one means by which species can adapt to a changing environment. Among vertebrates, lizards exhibit a high degree of variation in life-history traits, often associated with environmental variability. We examined the female breeding output of Podarcis siculus (Lacertidae) inside agricultural habitats, to test whether different cultivation and management influence the life-history traits of this species. Interestingly, we recorded variability of female breeding output at a very fine scale, namely among adjacent vineyards and olive orchards under different management levels. Lizards displayed the lowest breeding effort in the almost unmanaged sites, while clutch mass, relative fecundity and mean egg mass slightly increased in more intensively managed sites. However, in the most intensive cultivations we detected a life-history trade-off, where eggs from larger clutches tended to be relatively smaller than eggs from smaller clutches. This pattern suggests that agriculture can influence lizard reproductive output, partly favouring it in the presence of medium intensity cultivation but causing, in the most intensively managed sites, some environmental constraints that require a peculiar partitioning of the breeding resources. Even though further studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms driving the observed pattern, our results can be considered a starting point for evaluating the analysis of lizard breeding features as a tool to assess the impact of human activities, at least in agricultural environments.
Biaggini, M. & Corti, C. (2019) -
Biaggini, M. & Corti, C. (2021) -
Agriculture intensification is among one of the major threats affecting terrestrial reptiles worldwide. There is however a lack of information available on the ecology of these vertebrates in agricultural landscapes. Basic information like the pattern of occurrence in cultivated fields is key to assess the probability of an animal being affected by threats driven by agricultural managing. Focussing on the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus), we performed a field study to assess in detail its distribution and abundance in two cultivations, vineyards and cereal fields. Lizard distribution and abundance significantly varied among land uses, regardless of the arthropod fauna composition and diversity (analysed in the same fields), and the management activities. In the cereal fields, lizards were present exclusively along the field margins while in the vineyards they also occurred in the inner portions of the cultivated areas, even if they were more abundant next to the borders. The widespread presence of lizards in the vineyards suggest that P. siculus can likely adapt to such cultivated areas. This partly lowers the effect of habitat loss due to vineyard planting but exposes animals to the risks related to management activities, including mechanical practices and chemical application. In contrast, the presence of sowed lands, as extremely simplified habitats, results primarily in a definitive loss of habitat for lizards that are unable to settle within them, while the exposure to threats driven by management is less direct than in vineyards.
Biaggini, M. & Corti, C. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Kletecki, E. & Tvrtkovic, N. (2010) -
Anti-predatory behaviour is an important aspect of the ecology of organisms, such as lizards, that occupy an intermediate position in the trophic food chain. Lizards, in fact, frequently experience high predation rates and their behavioural response can be shaped by a number of environmental and physiological factors. We analysed flight initiation distance, distance fled and refuge use frequency in Podarcis melisellensis populations inhabiting medium and small sized islands of the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea. The level of wariness greatly varied among populations of different islands, while the length of the distance fled by lizards was more homogeneous across sites and, in average, it was shorter for lizards that entered a refuge rather than for lizards that did not hide. Most of the recorded variability could be probably related to differences in habitat structure among islands: lizard wariness, indeed, was higher in poorly vegetated islands, despite these islands did not host ground predator species. Even if this study provides just a preliminary description of P. melisellensis anti-predatory behaviour, our results suggest that interesting interactions between strength of predation and habitat complexity occur in shaping lizard escape process in the so called “Vis Archipelago”.
Biaggini, M. & Dapporto, L. & Paggetti, E. & Corti, C. (2006) -
Biaggini, M. & Delaugerre, M. & Lo Cascio, P. & Corti, C. (2013) -
I dati presentati in questa nota descrittiva sull’ecologia termica di Podarcis tiliguerta, lucertola endemica di Corsica e Sardegna, si riferiscono alla popolazione di Lavezzi, a SE della Corsica. Le osservazioni, svolte nel periodo di inizio giugno, hanno mostrato che nei maschi le temperature corporee sono significativamente maggiori rispetto alle femmine, con medie di 31,3 °C e 30,0 °C rispettivamente. In entrambi i sessi la temperatura corporea appare correlata con quella dell’aria e del substrato e sembra essere maggiore per gli individui in movimento.
Biaggini, M. & Nulchis, V. & Carretero, M.A. & Cipolla, R.M. & Corti, C. & Nappa, A. & Harris, D.J. (2009) -
Biaggini, M. & Paggetti, E. & Bazzoffi, P. & Brizzi, R. & Corti, C. (2004) -
Bianconi, J.J. (1850) -
Biard, H. (1989) -
Lacerta schreiberi is a close relative of L. viridis. Differences between the species are: L. schreiberi has a wider occipital scale than the interparietal and eight rows of ventral scales. L. viridis has a less wide occipital than the interparietal and six rowsofventrals. Sexualdifferencesare: malesare mostlygreen,heavilyspottedwithblack,andha- ve c l e a r f e m o r a l p o r e s . F e m a l es a r e e i t h e r g r e e n o r brown, with rather big black dots, more or less ar- ranged in rows. L. schreiberi lives in Northern, Western and Middle Iberia. They are found most commonly near flowing water, however someti- mes these lizards are found in dry oakforest. The lizards are kept in a glasshouse. In winter they hi- bernate in the glasshouse. Hibernation places are insulated by a layer of dry leaves.
Biard, H. (1991) -
This article is a continuation of a former article (BIARD, 1989), of which a short summary is gi- ven. A female L. schreiberi was bought pregnant. It laid 17 eggs, which, at temperatures between 28 and 30 oc hatched 42 days later. The next year the same female, and another one, living in an outdoor vivarium, each laid 19 eggs. Incubated the same way as the first clutch, these eggs were fully developed after six weeks, but most juveniles died in the eggshell and just a few hatched. In the dead juveniles malformations we- re observed. The following year, a couple of L. schreiberi was kept indoor and given artificial light, vitamine AD3 and calcium. Twelve eggs were produced in January. They all hatched without problems after six weeks. Juveniles were raised in an indoor vivarium. It is heated by a 25 W lightbulb and accomodation consists of humid peat soil, dry sand and a piece of cork. Crickets, and to a lesser extent buffalo- worms, both enriched with Gistocal to complete the diet. Within half a year the juveniles became sexual active and the females produced their first eggs.
Biard, H. (2001) -
Lacerta schreiberi is a lizard that is especially suited to an outdoor terrarium. Provided that the necessary precautions are taken, this species is relatively easy to breed. Females and males of this species can be distinguished easily by the pattern of spots on their back. The scalation of the head does not give conclusive information on the animal’s sex. In nature these lizards are often found near water, but definitely not always. Under Dutch climatic conditions, these animals can be kept outside perfectly well. During the summer months my terraria are mostly open on the top, but in the winter they are covered again. The bottom substrate consists mainly of rocks, with only one suitable place where the animals can lay their eggs. There is a hiding place where the animals can retreat in winter, or during the summer when the conditions are unfavourable. The remainder of the decoration consists of some plants and logs. The lizards are mostly fed mealworms and their drinking water is enriched with vitamins A and D3.
Biard, H. & Mudde, P. (1990) -
Biard, H. & Mudde, P. (1991) -
Biard, H. & Mudde, P. (1993) -
Bibron, M. & Bory de Saint-Vincent, J.B. (1833) -
Bicho, R.C. & Amaral, M.J. & Faustino, A.M.R. & Rema, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Soares, A.M.V.M. & Mann, R.M. (2012) -
Pesticide exposure has been related with thyroid disrupting effects in different vertebrate species. However, very little is known about the effects of these compounds in reptiles. In the Mediterranean area, lacertid lizards are the most abundant vertebrate group in agroecosystems, and have been identified as potential model species for reptile ecotoxicology. The aim of this study was to understand if the herbicides applied in corn fields have thyroid disruptive effects in the lizard Podarcis bocagei. Adult male lizards were captured in north-western Portugal in corn fields treated with herbicides (exposed sites), and in organic agricultural fields (reference sites). Thyroid and male gonad morphology and functionality, and testosterone levels were investigated through histological, immunohistochemical and biochemical techniques. Lizards from exposed locations displayed thyroid follicular lumens with more reabsorption vacuoles and significantly larger follicular area than those from reference fields. Furthermore, testes of lizards from exposed locations had significantly larger seminiferous tubule diameters, significantly higher number of spermatogenic layers and displayed an up-regulation of thyroid hormone receptors when compared with lizards from reference areas. These findings strongly suggest that the complex mixture of herbicides that lizards are exposed to in agricultural areas have thyroid disrupting effects which ultimately affect the male reproductive system. Alachlor, which has demonstrated thyroid effects in mammals, may be largely responsible for the observed effects.
Biehler, J.G. & Scholl, G. (1976) -
Bielawski, R. & Ramik, T. (1972) -
Biella, H.-J. (1974) -
Biglino, T. & Lymberakis, P. (2016) -
The evolution of the species Podarcis ehardii in the Mediterranean region saw the formation of many isolated populations that are still in the process of characterization. Given the differences in habitat, different strategies would be adopted in order to escape predation: from cryptic mimetism to escape. In this project a newly described species, Podarcis cretensis, is approached in order to understand how it reacts to a variation in predation pressure during summer (July) and during autumn bird migration (October). Four populations from Crete have been sampled: one on Chrysi islet and three on the main island of Crete (Balos, Elafonisi, Theriso). The experiment was performed during morning and evening activity peaks. The individuals were slowly approached by a walking operator until eliciting a response. Data regarding fleeing distance (FD), approaching distance (AD), refuge type, hiding times, tail condition and age of the individuals were recorded. The results showed that there is a significant overall variation in the distances covered in summer and in October for both AD and FD as well as higher percentage of lizards showing regenerated tails in October compared to July. A significant variation among the four populations is also present for what concern FD and AD. These results show that there is a significant variation in the distances that lizards are willing to cover in the two different periods and in the four populations taken into consideration. This is a clear indication that bird predation has an important effect in shaping the behaviour of island lizards that lack other major predators. The presence of a higher percentage of regenerated tails in populations in October can imply that the sacrifice of the tail is a successful defensive mechanism against bird predation.
Bignotti, G. (1910) -
BIJ12 (2017) -
Bijlsma, R. & Verhoogt, H. (1994) -
Bilajac, A. (2020) -
In the year 1971., five pairs of italian wall lizard Podarcis siculus were translocated from Pod Kopište island to Pod Mrčaru island. After 36 years, scientists discovered that the P. siculus population competitively excluded the dalmatian wall lizard P. melisellensis on Pod Mrčaru island. Further comparative studies of P. siculus populations on two islands, Pod Kopište and Pod Mrčaru, have shown noticeable variations between two populations on the physiological, morphological and behavioural level. Evidence on higher sociability on Pod Mrčaru island, demonstrated a need for further studies, including behavioral comparisons and heritability testing. This work is focused on one behavioral trait, sociability. This work is part of HRZZ project Genraliz, which aims at answering questions regarding rapid adaptive evolution. Four groups of juvenile individuals are tested. The first group consists of juveniles whose parents originated from Pod Kopište island, while the second group consists of juveniles whose parents originated from Pod Mrčaru island. The third and fourth group include hybrids whose parents from both islands were reciprocally crossed. Preceding tests done on the parental generation showed that males from Pod Mrčaru island exhibit higher sociability behavior than females from both islands, and males from Pod Kopište island. The results of this study haven`t shown any significant differences in sociability between the four tested groups. Future studies should include juvenile and adult comparisons, as well as genom-wide sequencing and transcriptome studies.
Bille, T. (1996) -
Bille, T. (1997) -
Billings, D.R. (1986) -
Bimmer, E. (1949) -
Bings, W. (1980) -
The polymorphism exhibited by the Canarian lizard Lacerta galloti on Tenerife is described. Four different phenotypes are distinguished the distribution of which can be correlated with the occurrence of old basaltic lavas. These basaltic areas are the most ancient parts of the island and presumably have been four independent islands before the birth of Teide volcano. Older and new evidence is presented and discussed with regard to the possible recent existence of a giant Lacerta (L. simonyi ! goliath group) on Tenerife. lt is demonstrated that all evidence concerning giant lizards fits with the distributional pattern stated for L. galloti. The possibility is discussed that the giant lizards of Tenerife have become extinct not before the turn of the century, or that they even might have survived until the present. One main objective of this paper is to stimulate future research.
Bings, W. (1985) -
The cliff of Fuga de Gorreta on Hierro ist the last retreat of Gallotia simonyi. During a visit of the island in 1982 the author followefd old and new hints at the present and former occurrence of the lizard. However, it was not possible to document the present existence of the species outside the Fuga de Gorreta. In addition caves and concheros of the Guanches were investigated with respect to skeletal material. Several remains of lizards were found, some dentalia indicating a considerable size of the lizards. The findings also indicate that the lizards were eaten by the aboriginals. – Past and present records (woth one exception) are restricted to regions of old basaltic rocks. – From this understanding I propose to favour the following regions for re-introduction programs of Gallotia simonyi, especially in the case of successful captive breeding: 1) Southern slope Bco Los Cardones, 2) Southern slope Risci de los Herrenos, 3) Southern slope Bco of Tinor, 4) Smaller Zalmor Rock, and 5) Southern slope Bahia de los Reyes.
Birckel, S. (2003) -
Bird, C.G. (1936) -
Bird, T.L.F. & Shacham, B. & Kutiel, P.B. & Groner, E. & Bouskila, A. (2018) -
Birkenmeier, E. (1951) -
Birkenmeier, E. (1952) -
Birlik, S. (2022) -
Fourty two lizard species are distrubuted in Turkey. In this study, ıt is aimed that seven host species of Lacertidae family are determined helminth fauna -D. armeniaca (Hemşin lizard), D. derjugini (Artvin lizard), D. parvula (Gürcü lizard), D. raddei (Radde lizard), D. rudis (Trabzon lizard), D. unisexualis (Ağrı lizard), D. valentini (Valentin lizard). It was applied firstly classical taxonomy to morphological characters and then DNA sequence analysis in determining fauna. Ten species identified are member of phylum: Nematoda. These species are: two of genus; Skrjabinodon medinae, S. alcaraziensis, Spauligodon sp., S. carbonelli, S. aloisei, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni, Strongyloides darevsky, Oswaldocruzia filiformis, Thubunae sp., Acuaridae larva; 2 Sestod Oochoristica tuberculata and Mesocestoides spp. and 1 Akantosefal Sphaerirostris scanensis. Totally 13 helminth species are reported. It has been confirmed that present of parasite species identified according to morphological, anatomical and ecological characteristics with determining target genom of helminthes. The results of morphologic and molecular support each other. Four species- one of them is larva-of identified 13 helminth species are new record of Turkish helminth fauna.
Birlik, S. & Yildirimhan, H.S. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutas, Y. (2018) -
In this study, we assessed the helminth fauna of seventy two Valentin’s Lizard, Darevskia valentini (32♂♂, 35♀♀, 5 subadult). Specimens collected from Kayseri, Ardahan and Van Provinces in Turkey. As a result of the present study, it was detected that forty one hosts are infected with one or more species of helminth. Two species of Cestoda, Oochoristica tuberculata and Mesocestoides spp., and 5 species of Nematoda, Spauligodon aloisei, Skrjabinodon alcaraziensis, Skrjabinodon medinae, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni and Strongyloides darevsky were found in the hosts. D. valentini represents a new host record for all helminths recorded. Skrjabinodon alcaraziensis is recorded for the first time from Turkey. Van, Kayseri and Ardahan are new locality records for all helminths from D. valentini.
The present study investigated the composition of helminth parasites of Darevskia rudis, Spiny Tailed Lizard from Turkey. One hundred and two samples (49♀♀, 53♂♂) from the Tokat, Trabzon, Rize, Gümüşhane and Artvin Provinces were collected and examined for helminth parasites. New host and locality records were recorded. As a result of the present study, seven species of Nematoda, Skrjabinodon medinae, Spauligodon sp., Spauligodon carbonelli, Spauligodon aloisei, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni, Strongyloides darevsky, Oswaldocruzia filiformis; one species of Cestoda, Mesocestoides spp. (tetrathyridium) and one species of Acanthocephala Sphaerirostris scanensis were reported from the lizard samples. Sp. carbonelli and Sphaerirostris scanensis are here recorded for the first time in Turkey. D. rudis is the new host recorded for Sk. medinae, Spauligodon sp., Sp. carbonelli, Sp. aloisei from Nematoda, Mesocestoides spp. from Cestoda and Sphaerirostris scanensis from Acanthocephala. This host has been studied for the first time for the helminth parasites from the Tokat and Gümüşhane Provinces. There is, to our knowledge, only one report of helminthes for D. rudis in Turkey.
Birlik, S. & Yildirimhan, H.S. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Candan, K. & Ilgaz, Ç. (2017) -
Population of Iranolacerta brandtii lizard including 56 (21 females, 34 males, 1 juvenile) samples were examined for helminths. 17 of them were found to harbour one or more helminth parasites, while 39 didn’t harbor any. Two helminth species were determined. These belong to Phylum: Nematoda, Spauligodon aloisei Casanova, Milazzo, Ribas & Cagnin, 2003 and Skrjabinodon medinae. García-Calvente, 1948. This study represents new host and locality records in both host lizard and the helminth species. Sp. aloisei is recorded for the first time; Sk. medinae is the third report from Turkey nevertheless Sk. medinae is a new host record for I. brandtii.
Birlik, S. & Yildirimhan, H.S. & Sümer, N. & Ilgaz, C. & Güclü, Ö. & Durmus, S.H. (2015) -
A total of thirty-one Anatolian Lizard, Apathya cappacocica, samples from several provinces of Eastern and South-Eastern Turkey were examined for helminths. Two species of Nematoda, including Spauligodon atlanticus, Skrjabinodon medinae; two species of Cestoda, including Mesocestoides sp. tetrahydia and Oochoristica tuberculata and one species of Acanthocephala, Centrorhynchus sp. were found. This is the first helminth record of A. cappodocica from Turkey. A. cappadocica represents a new host record for each of the parasite species. S. atlanticus is reported from Turkey for the fi rst time.
Birlik, S. & Yildirimhan, H.S. & Sümer, N. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Ilgaz, C. & Durmus, S.H. & Güclü, Ö. & Kandan, K. (2016) -
In the years 2010 and 2014, fifty-four samples of Phoenicolacerta laevis from eight localities in Adana (n=6) and Hatay (n=48) were collected and examined for helminth parasites. New host and locality records were recorded. As a results of present study, three species of Digenea, Sonsinotrema tacapense, Prosthodendrium chilostomum, Brachylaima sp. (metacercaria); two species of Cestoda, Oochoristica tuberculata and Mesocestoides sp. and four species of Nematoda, Skrjabinodon medinae, Spauligodon sp., Thubunaea sp. and a larva of the Ascaridiidae Ascarididae gen. sp. were reported for lizard samples. We document new host records for all of helminth species reported here. Sonsionotrema tacapense (Digenea), and Thubunaea sp. (Nematoda) are recorded for the first time from Turkey. There are, to our knowledge, no reports of helminths for P. laevis in Turkey and also from its range.
Biró, G. (2017) -
The recognition that consistent between-individual behavioural differences (i.e. animal personality) are biologically relevant and valid phenomena arrived only in the last ca. 15 years to the field of behavioural ecology. The existence of animal personality is not intuitively expected, since it can decrease fitness in several ways. For instance, aggressive individuals stay aggressive in contexts or situations when this behaviour is highly maladaptive, like against their mate or offspring, or in the presence of predators. Thus, the identification of mechanisms playing role in the development and evolution of animal personality has an utmost importance. Ecological and physiological factors are known to have the potential to create long-term between-individual behavioural differences, especially during the early stages of ontogeny. However, the role of these factors during adulthood is rather controversial. Carpetane rock lizard (Iberolacerta cyreni) is a small diurnal lacertid, endemic to the high-mountainous regions of Central Spain, and one of the best studied lizards in Europe. Using this species as a model organism I aimed to study how testosterone treatment (testosterone vs. placebo) affects aggression of wild-caught reproductive adult male I. cyreni in two ecologically distinct situations (perceived predation risk present vs. absent). I focussed on two components of behavioural variation: individual mean behaviour and the strength of behavioural consistency. The applied treatments affected only behavioural consistency: control males (placebo treatment × predator absent) lacked aggressive personality, i.e. individuals were statistically indistinguishable, while testosterone treatment and/or the presence of perceived predation risk resulted in strong personalities. My results suggest that consistent individual behavioural variation is not necessary stable and relevant ecological or physiological stimuli are necessary for the emergence of animal personality.
A viselkedésökológiai kutatásokban csak az utóbbi 15 évben ismerték fel, hogy az egyedek közötti konzisztens viselkedésbeli különbség (más szóval állati személyiség) biológiailag releváns és érvényes jelenség. Az állati személyiség léte nem magától értetődő, mivel számos módon csökkentheti a rátermettséget. Például az agresszív egyedek agresszívek maradnak olyan kontextusokban vagy szituációkban, amikor a viselkedés maladaptív, például a párjukkal és utódaikkal szemben, vagy ragadozó jelenlétében. Ezért az állati személyiség kialakulásában és evolúciójában szerepet játszó mechanizmusok azonosítása fontos célunk.
Birukow, G. & Fischer, K. & Böttcher, H. (1969) -
Das Vermögen, sich kompaBgerecht nach dem Stand der Sonne zu orientieren und ihre tageszeitliche Wanderung einzurechnen, ist seit den grundlegenden Entdeckungen von K. v. Frisch (1950, 1951) an der Biene auch bei zahlreichen anderen Vertretern der Arthropoden und Wirbeltiere nachgewiesen worden. Soweit wir heute wissen, setzt das Richtungsfinden mittels eines Himmelsgestirnes mindestens zwei Grundleistungen des tierischen Organismus voraus: erstens die Fähigkeit, „Zeit zu messen“ (physiologische oder innere Uhr; vgl. Bünning, 1958; Aschoff, 1960); zweitens den zeitgerechten Gebrauch eines Orientierungsmechanismus, der die tageszeitlichen Azimutänderungen des Gestirnes „rechnerisch“ mit Hilfe der inneren Uhr kompensiert. Während das erste Grundvermögen wohl eine sehr allgemeine Eigenschaft von Lebewesen ist, wie es der tagesrhythmische, annähernd mit der Erdumdrehung synchronisierte Ablauf zahlreicher Lebensprozesse bei Tieren und Pflanzen zeigt, sichert das zweite Vermögen speziellere Lebensbedürfnisse des tierischen Organismus; die Fähigkeit, Zeit zu messen, wird dabei in den Dienst der Orientierungsfunktion gestellt.
Bisbal-Chinesta, J.F. & Berdún, E. (2022) -
Three new records of morphological anomalies in amphibians and reptiles from the Montseny area (Catalonia) are presented: a first case of ectrodactyly in a subadult individual of Discoglossus galganoi, a second case of amely (ectromely) in a tadpole of Bufo spinosus, and a third case of a teratological tail-like limb in a subadult individual of Podarcis muralis, and their possible causes are discussed.
Bisbal-Chinesta, J.F. & Garcia-Marsà (2015) -
We describe a new location of Psammodromus edwardsianus in the Aragon southern area.
Bischoff, W. (1966) -
Bischoff, W. (1969) -
Bischoff, W. (1970) -
Bischoff, W. (1971) -
Bischoff, W. (1973) -
Bischoff, W. (1974) -
The systematic position of Lacerta simonyi stehlini is shordy reviewed. Same obser- vations concerning nutrition and behaviour, also mating behaviour, are described. Two clusters containing seven and eleven eggs were produced. Eight juveniles hatched from the second duster. Their morphology, growth and behaviour during the first four months are described.
Bischoff, W. (1975) -
Bischoff, W. (1976) -
Bischoff, W. (1978) -
The final part of a series of papers on the lizards of the Caucasus, that have been published in previous years. The paper reports on the life habits, capture and keeping in terraria of several lizards of Soviet Transcaucasia. In these respects the agamid Phrynocephalus helioscopus persi- cus and three species of the lacertid genus Eremias occuring in that area (i. e. strauchi, velox, pleskei) are discussed. Finally a !ist of all lizard species and subspecies actually known to occur in this region is given.
Bischoff, W. (1981) -
Remarks on distribution and mode of life of Lacerta agilis. Short review of its subspecies . Critical remarks on their status.
Bischoff, W. (1982) -
Die Insel Teneriffa (Kanarischer Archipel) wird von zwei Unterarten von Gallotia galloti bewohnt, von denen die Nominatform im Zentrum und im Süden lebt. Für sie wird ein Lectotypus designiert, und die terra typica wird auf das Tal von Güimar restringiert. Die größere und buntgefärbte Form der Anaga-Halbinsel und der Nordküste wird als Gallotia galloti eisentrauti ssp.n. (terra typica Bajamar) beschrieben. Das Vorkommen zweiter distinkter Unterarten, die auch sekundäre Kontaktzonen ausbilden, wird historisch diskutiert und stützt die Hypothese, daß Teneriffa ursprünglich aus mindestens zwei getrennten Teilen bestanden hat. Die Verbreitung von G. galloti auf den vier westlichen Kanaren-Inseln Teneriffa, Gomera, Hierro und La Palma wird mit derjenigen anderer Echsenarten dieser Inseln vergleichend diskutiert.
Ocellated lizards from Tunisia and Spain respectively were hybridized. The hybrids proved to be much more aggressive than normal specimens but did not show any sexual activity among cach other Back crossing experiments revealed a strongly reduced fertility of the hybrids and demonstrated that the degree of genetic incompatibility by far exceeds the subspecific, i. c. infraspecific Ievel. The two forms are, thus, ranked here as allospecies: Lacerta pater LATASTE, 1880, and Lacerta lepida DAUDIN, 1802.
Bischoff, W. (1984) -
An analysis based on 55 specimens of Lacerta derjugini from different localities on the southern slope of the Great Caucasus, all situated in the territory of the Georgian SSR/USSR, lead to the following results: 1. The distribution area of Lacerta derjugini boehmei BISCHOFF, 1982, is restricted to the westernmost part of the southern slope of the Caucasus. 2. Apart from the type locality (Suchumi) Lacerta derjugini abchasica BISCHOFF, 1982, also exists in the river valleys of the Kodori and Inguri. 3. The lizards living in the eastern part of the distribution area are described here as Lacerta derjugini orlowae ssp.n. (type locality: Pasanauri).
Bischoff, W. (1985) -
Die Beziehungen der beiden rezenten kanarischen Rieseneidechsenarten Gallotia simonyi und G. stehlini werden diskutiert. Der Lebensraum und, soweit bekannt, die Lebensweise werden beschrieben. Es folgen einige Bemerkungen über die vom Aussterben bedrohte G. simonyi und abschließend einige Hinweise zur Haltung von G. stehlini im Terrarium.
Dieser Beitrag ist der erste Teil einer Serie über die Herpetofauna der Kanarischen Inseln, in dem es zunächst auf die Lage, das Alter und die Entstehung des Archipels eingegangen wird. Bemerkungen zur Topographie, zum Klima und zur Vegetation geben Hinweise auf die Umweltbedingungen für die hier lebenden Amphibien und Reptilia. Herkunft und gegenwärtige Situation der endemischen Arten werden diskutiert, und es folgen Bemerkungen zu den nur fossil bekannten Arten Testudo burchardi, Gallotia goliath und G. maxima: Folgende Arten wurden auf den Inseln eingeschleppt: Hyla meridionalis, Rana perezi, Chamaeleo chamaeleon, Hemidactylus turcicus und Tarentola mauritanica. Den Abschluß dieses Beitrages bildet ein Schlüssel zum Bestimmen aller gegenwärtig von den Kanarischen Inseln bekannten Arten und Unterarten.
Variability of biometric characters and colour patterns was studies in 287 specimens of Gallotia atlantica from all parts of its range. Results indicate a hierarchial system of infraspecific groups. With regard to historical and topographical aspects (isolation time jedged from isobates) two different population groups (Lanzarote and surrounding islets; Fuertenventura and Lobos) are distinguished. They represent two subspecies, Gallotia atlantica atlantica and Gallotia atlantica mahoratae. Furthermore, it is argued that the observed differences in colouration have an adaptive value.
The Lacertid lizard of Fuerteventura (Canary Islands) in described as Gallotia atlantica mahoratae ssp n. . Despite some minor differences this subspecies also icludes the lizards of the Jandia peninsula and those of the small island of Lobos.
Die Beziehungen der kanarischen Eidechsen der Gattung Gallotia zu den anderen Lacertiden werden diskutiert. Die äußerlich klar zu erkennende Gallotia atlantica gliedert sich in 2 Unterarten G. a. atlantica und G. atlantica mahoratae. Der Lebensraum und die derzeit bekannten Daten über die Lebensweise werden beschrieben. Hinweise zur Haltung dieser Art im terrarium schließen den Beitrag ab.
Gallotia galloti gliedert sich in 6 Unterarten (G. g. galloti, G.g. caesaris, G. g. eisentrauti, G. g. gomerae, G. g. insulanagae und G. g. palmae) deren Beziehungen diskutiert und deren Lebensraum und Lebensweise beschrieben werden. Es folgen kurze Hinweise zur Terrarienhaltung. Abschließend wird auf neueste Forschungsergebnisse zur kanarischen Herpetofauna hingewiesen.
Bischoff, W. (1986) -
Bischoff, W. (1987) -
Bischoff, W. (1988) -
Bischoff, W. (1990) -
Acanthodactylus arabicus, Acanthodactylus aureus, Acanthodactylus bedriagai, Acanthodactylus blanci, Acanthodactylus blanfordii, Acanthodactylus boskianus boskianus, Acanthodactylus boskianus asper, Acanthodactylus boskianus euphraticus, Acanthodactylus boueti, Acanthodactylus busacki, Acanthodactylus cantoris, Acanthodactylus dumerili dumerili, Acanthodactylus dumerili exiguus, Acanthodactylus erythrurus erythrurus, Acanthodactylus erythrurus belli, Acanthodactylus erythrurus lineomaculatus, Acanthodactylus felicis, Acanthodactylus gongrorhynchatus, Acanthodactylus grandis, Acanthodactylus guineensis, Acanthodactylus haasi, Acanthodactylus longipes, Acanthodactylus maculatus, Acanthodactylus masirae, Acanthodactylus micropholis, Acanthodactylus opheodurus, Acanthodactylus orientalis, Acanthodactylus pardalis, Acanthodactylus robustus, Acanthodactylus savignyi, Acanthodactylus schmidti, Acanthodactylus schreiberi schreiberi, Acanthodactylus schreiberi syriacus, Acanthodactylus scutellatus scutellatus, Acanthodactylus scutellatus hardyi, Acanthodactylus spinicauda, Acanthodactylus tilburyi, Acanthodactylus tristrami, Acanthodactylus yemenicus, Adolfus africanus, Adolfus alleni, Adolfus jacksoni, Adolfus vauereselli, Algyroides fitzingeri, Algyroides marchi, Algyroides moreoticus, Algyroides nigropunctatus nigropunctatus, Algyroides nigropunctatus kephallithacius, Australolacerta australis, Australolacerta rupicola
Bischoff, W. (1991) -
Bischoff, W. (1992) -
Bischoff, W. (1993) -
Bischoff, W. (1995) -
New informations concerning systematical questions within the family Lacertidae, which were published during the last time, are presented.
New informationen concerning systematical questions within the family Lacertidae, which were published during the last one and a half years, are presented.
Bischoff, W. (1996) -
New informations concerning systematical questions within the family Lacertidae, which were published during the last year, are presented.
Bischoff, W. (1997) -
Bischoff, W. (1998) -
Das kleine »Galapagos vor der europäischen Haustür« ist Gegenstand dieses in sich geschlossenen Bandes. Er gibt erstmalig einen Überblick über die Herpetofauna dieser Inselgruppen.
Bischoff, W. (1999) -
Bischoff, W. (2000) -
Bischoff, W. (2001) -
Bischoff, W. (2002) -
Bischoff, W. (2003) -
General remarks on Georgia as nature area and on ist herpetofauna, with discussion about ist population density. Short presentation and hints on distribution and habitats of Eremias arguta transcaucasica, E. velox caucasica, Ophisops elegans elegans, Lacerta agilis brevicaudata, L. agilis ioriensis, L. agilis grusinica, L. media media and L. strigata.
In Georgia, 16 species of rock lizards of the Genus Darevskia are occuring (D. alpina, D. „armeniaca`, D. brauneri, D. caucasica, D. clarkorum, D. daghestanica, D. „dahli`, D. derjugini, D. mixta, D. nairensis, D. parvula, D. portschinskii, D. praticola, D. rudis, D. „unisexualis` and D. Valentini). Besides short presentations of the single species and hints on their distribution and habitats, also some systematic remarks are given.
Bischoff, W. (2004) -
Bischoff, W. (2005) -
Bischoff, W. (2006) -
Bischoff, W. (2007) -
Bischoff, W. (2008) -
Kurzer Bericht über den Fund einer Rieseneidechse auf der Insel La Palma (Kanarische Inseln). Das Tier ist wahrscheinlich mit der bisher nur subfossil bekannten Gallotia simonyi auaritae identisch.
Bischoff, W. (2010) -
Bischoff, W. (2011) -
Bischoff, W. (2012) -
Bischoff, W. (2014) -
Bischoff, W. (2015) -
Bischoff, W. (2017) -
Diskussion über die Darstellung von Lacerta jayakari auf der Tafel II in BOULENGER (1887). Es konnte keine Erklärung für die düstere Färbung des Lebensbildes gefunden werden.
Bischoff, W. (2018) -
Kurze Vorstellung der drei Eidechsenarten Acanthodactylus felicis, A. opheodurus und Mesalina ayunensis aus der omanischen Provinz Dhofar.
Bischoff, W. (2020) -
Brief presentation of some stamps and baknotes on which Lacerta agilis is pictured.
The author gives an insight into his decade-long engagement with the sand lizard.
Bischoff, W. (2021) -
A work by the Polish teacher and natural scientist JAN ALEKSANDER BAYGER (1867-1958) from 1909 is presented that has hitherto been overlooked by experts. BAYGER describes a subspecies of the sand lizard under the name Lacerta agilis L. var. Dzieduszyckii from the area around the city of Lviv, which today belongs to the Ukraine. This name is a synonym for Lacerta agilis chersonensis. In addition, the largely unknown outside of Poland J.A. BAYGER briefly introduced.
GEORGI FEDOROWITSCH SUCHOW (1899-1942) was one of those researchers from the former Soviet Union who has been completely forgotten. This changed with the memories of his daughter NATALIA GEORGIEVNA SUKHOVA, published in 2015. Born in Ukraine, SUKHOV went to Leningrad in 1930, but did not get the hoped-for position as a scientist in the local herpetological department of the Zoological Museum of the Academy of Sciences of the USSR. He was only hired as a museum guide. In February 1942 he died as a result of the siege of Leningrad by German troops. SUCHOW’S twelve herpetological works were almost exclusively devoted to the lacertid lizards. He described five new taxa, four of which are valid (Lacerta agilis tauridica, Lacerta agilis boemica, Apathya cappadocica urmiana und Timon kurdistanicus).
Bischoff, W. (2022) -
Brief presentstion of the South African Sandveld Lizard Nucras holubi und its discoverer EMIL HOLUB.
Bischoff, W. (2024) -
Brief presentation and classification of the long overlooked Nucras ukerewensis Bolkay, 1909 from northern Tanzania.
Bischoff, W. & Bannert, B. (2001) -
Se informa acerca de un viaje que los autores hicieron entre el 8 y el 18 de Junio de 2001 hacia las islas Tenerife, La Gomera y El Hierro en el archipiélago de las Canarias. La meta principal era la estación de crianza y de investigación del Lagarto Gigante de La Gomera. La gran ayuda de los señores MIGUEL MOLINA BORJA de la Universidad de La Laguna, JUAN CARLOS MORENO, Director de la Consejería de Política territorial y Medio Ambiente en Tenerife, y JOSÉ ANTONIO MATEO, Director del Lagartario de La Gomera en Antoncojo abrió el camino a los autores para informarse ampliamente sobre la situación del Lagarto Gigante de La Gomera, sobre el trabajo en la estación y sobre la utilización que se le dió al dinero reunido por los miembros del DGHT. La impresión fue muy positiva. Por eso aprovechan esta oportunidad de alentar a los miembros de la Asociación Alemana de Herpetología y Terrarística para que sigan cooperando en el financiamiento de las actividades para la proteción del Lagarto Gigante de La Gomera.
Bischoff, W. & Bannert, B. (2002) -
Bischoff, W. & Bischoff, U. (1980) -
Bischoff, W. & Böhme, W. (1980) -
Bischoff, W. & Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1991) -
In the mountain ranges Djebel Aures and Djebel Belezma of northern Algeria Psammodromus blancii were observed and caught (Apri l and May 1988). The description of the four localities of this little-known lizard furnishes ecological data. The lizards lives, sometimes in dense populations, in mountain regions above 1500 m on dry, short-cropped stony meadows with small shrubs serving as hiding places. In captivity four males and one female reproduced. Following the introductory tail bite, the female turns on her side and curves her back concavely. The male grasps the dorsolateral skin near her shoulders, moves his cloaca over her back, and copulates on the opposite side for 10 seconds. Immediately after intromission ends, the male — still holding the female`s skin between his jaws — shakes his head, and only then the female wil l run away. The extremely short courtship is discussed in connection with the habitat. Behaviour and reproduction as a whole are compared with that of Psammodromus algirus and P. hispanicus.
Bischoff, W. & Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Schmidtler, J.F. (1998) -
Bericht über die Entdeckungsgeschichte der Eidechsen des Lacerta kulzeri-Komplexes, speziell jener des Djebel Druz in Syrien. Der Lebensraum der Dj. Druz-Eidechsewn sowie einige Freilandbeobachtungen werden mitgeteilt. Bemerkenswert ist, dass die Eidechsen offensichtlich von sich aus das Wasser aufsuchen. Die übrige Herpetofauna des Dj. Druz wird aufgelistet und teilweise kurz kommentiert.
Bischoff, W. & Cheylan, M. & Böhme, W. (1984) -
Bischoff, W. & Deichsel, G. (2002) -
A museum specimen misidentified as a common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, from Van Wert County, Ohio, USA was re-determined as a Caucasian rock lizard, Darevskia valentini. The specimen displays characteristics of Darevskia, the most notable of which are alternating broad and narrow whorls of scales around the tail. Scalation of the specimen is described and compared to sister taxa in detail.
Bischoff, W. & Elzen, P. van den (1982) -
Bischoff, W. & Engelmann, W.-E. (1978) -
Bischoff, W. & Franzen, M. (1993) -
The distrubution of Lacerta laevis, especially in Turkey is described. Turkish specimens from the southern part of its range tend to show a red ventral colour, in comparison with animals from the northern parts of the Turkish distribution area. These are often characterized by green to greenish-blue throats. Eventually this may point to infraspecific variability. In southern Turkey Lacerta laevis is restricted to moist and semi-shady habitats and shows a discontinous distribution within its range. In this report some of the Turkish habitats are described.
Bischoff, W. & Franzen, M. & Schmidtler, J.F. (2005) -
We report on new locality records of Darevskia derjugini from the Turkish Pontus Mountains south of Dereli (Giresun province) and near the monastery of Meryemana (Trabzon province). The record from Giresun province extends the Turkish distribution some 130 km to the west. Examination of comparative material questions the taxonomic status of Darevskia derjugini barani to some degree, since characters separating this taxon from D. d. derjugini appear extremely variable and variation of pholidosis may be correlated with climate.
Bischoff, W. & Joger, U. (1990) -
Bischoff, W. & Müller, J. (1999) -
Revision of the Levantine Lacerta laevis / kulzeri complex: 2. The wall lizard of Petra, Lacerta kulzeri petraea ssp.n. Lacerta kulzeri petraea ssp.n. is described from the ancient Petra in Jordan. The new subspecies can be differentiated from the other representatives of the L . kulzeri complex by its relatively short skull, the lack of a masseteric shield in most individuals, and a high number of dorsals, supraciliar granules, gulars, and subdigital lamellae. The ground colouration is light showing only a faint reticulation. Next to the morphological data, notes on distribution and ecology are given.
Bischoff, W. & Nettmann, H.-K. & Rykena, S. (1979) -
Review of the herpetofauna of the island of Hierro, where the following species occur: Hyla meridionalis, Rana perezi, Tarentola delalandii ssp., Chalcides viridanus ssp., Gallotia simonyi, and Gallotia galloti caesaris. T. delalandii, C. viridanus, and G. galloti caesaris were captured. Data concerning habits and distribution are presented. It is likely that T. delalandii and C. viridanus represent subspecies characteristic for Hierro. Variation of certain characters in G. galloti caesaris is correlated with its vertical distribution. In some localities this species is extremely abundant. Unfortunately, the large and endangered G. simonyi was not observed. Chances of its survival are discussed. Activities to preserve this lizard from extinction are suggested.
Bischoff, W. & Osenegg, K. & Mayer, W. (1989) -
In this study 175 specimens of Podarcis dugesii from the islands Madeira, Deserta Grande, Bugio, Porto Santo, Selvagem Grande and Selvagem Pequena were examined. Morphological data from lizards of these six islands were subjected to a Variance- and Discriminant-analysis and compared to results from an Enzyme-Electrophoresis. Podarcis dugesii mauli is placed as a synonym of the nominate subspecies. In contrast, two new subspecies are described: Podarcis dugesii jogeri ssp.n. for the population from Porto Santo and Podarcis dugesii selvagensis ssp.n. from the Selvagens islands.
Bischoff, W. & Schmidtler, J.F. (1981) -
Bischoff, W. & Schmidtler, J.F. (1994) -
During two excursions to Syria (March/April and May 1994) 9 species of lacertid lizards were found (Acanthodactylus grandis, A. orientalis, A. tristrami, Lacerta media wolterstorffi L. cappadocica wolteri, L. l. laevis, L. (cf.) kulzeri, Mesalina brevirostris and Ophisops elegans ssp.). Three of them (A. tristrami, L. cappadocica wolteri and L. (cf.) kulzeri) are reported for the first time for this country. Concerning L. cappadocica, L. laevis, L. (cf.) kulzeri and O. elegans systematical questions are discussed. Ecological data are presented. Further amphibians and reptiles found during the excursions are listed, Coluber najadum is reported for the first time for Syria.
Bischoff, W. & Schmidtler, J.F. (1996) -
Bischoff, W. & Schmidtler, J.F. (1997) -
Bischoff, W. & Schmidtler, J.F. (1998) -
Bischoff, W. & Schmidtler, J.F. (1999) -
Presently, within the lizard populations included in the Lacerta laevis-kulzeri complex, two main groups appear to be well distinguished in terms of morphology, distribution and ecology: Lacerta laevis Gray, 1838 (sensu lato) which is generally distributed in the Mediterranean region to the west of the Rift valley between Central Israel/Palestine and southern Turkey. The species prefers humid habitats in oak forests, gardens and valleys. Despite considerable morphological variation, only one subspecies (troodica from Cyprus) has been acknowledged to date. During our research in the northern mountains to the east of the rift valley (Syria/Turkey), a quite distinct rock lizard was detected living in hills with sparse vegetation; our classification of it under L. laevis s.l. is highly provisional. The second group comprises the often misunderstood rock-lizard Lacerta kulzeri Müller & Wettstein, 1932, described from Bcharré/Lebanon. It is mainly distributed in the continental mountains and hill lands to the east of the Rift valley, from the Anti-Lebanon to Petra/Jordan in the south. Morphologically different and isolated populations occur here and at the eastern side of the Lebanon Mts. and the volcanic Djebel Druz/South Syria. Near Bloudan/Anti-Lebanon and at Djebel Barouk/Lebanon Mts. both groups were found sympatrically.
Bischoff, W. & SCHMIDTLER, J.F. (2013) -
Bischoff, W. & Schmidtler, J.F. (2014) -
From Pallas to Darevsky: The exploration of the Caucasian herpetofauna using the example of the Saurians: The Caucasus, a wild mountain range bordering Europe and Asia, was a cue ball between the Russian, Ottoman and Persian empires up to the beginning of the 20th century. The general history of exploration was mainly initiated by the Russian governments and started at the end of the 18th century. The history of the discovery and exploration of the Caucasus, here especially of the Saurians, is documented. Our report is ending with the researches of Ilya S. Darevsky on the saxiculous lizards of the genus Darevskia in the 1960ies. From the northern and southern slopes of this mountain range (“Ciscaucasia” / “Transcaucasia”) 45 Saurian species are currently known. They belong to five families in which exactly two-thirds are members of the lacertids. These are the only ones having developed numerous species and subspecies in the Caucasian range, and among them, beside Lacerta agilis, especially the saxicolous lizards of the genus Darevskia are characteristical. 20 scientists are introduced on the basis of their most important publications and their profiles: Peter Simon Pallas (1741-1811), Samuel Gottlieb Gmelin (1744-1774), Johann Anton von Güldenstädt (1745-1781), Eduard von Eichwald (1795-1876), Edouard Ménétriés (1802-1861), Eduard Eversmann (1794-1860), Alexander von Nordmann (1803-1866), Moritz Wagner (1813-1887), Karl Kessler (1815-1881), Alexander Strauch (1832-1893), Jacques von Bedriaga (1854-1906), Gustav Radde (1831-1903), Oskar Boettger (1844-1910), Alexander Mikhailovitch Nikolsky (1858-1942), Ludwig von Méhely (1862-1953), George Albert Boulenger (1858-1937), Louis Amédée Lantz (1886-1953), Otto Cyrén (1878-1946), Ilya Sergeyevitch Darevsky (1924-2009) and Günther Peters (* 1932).
Bischoff, W. & Tarkhnishvili, D. (2002) -
Georgia, its history and the nature are briefly described. This is supplied by a short overview of the country`s herpetological fauna, with particular attention to the especially diverse family of true lizards. At the end, brief description of our common trip to Georgia (May - Juny 2002) is given.
Bischoff, W. & Warnecke, R. (2009) -
Bischoff, W. & Zawadzki, M. (2021) -
After being voted «Reptile of the year 2020» the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) was featered extensively in the publications and on the websites of the relevant specialist organizations in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Luxembourg (- not least in this magazine -), and it has repeatedly served as an attractive advertising medium for the protection of our amphibians and reptiles in the daily press. Nevertheless, numerous activities and conferences fell victim to the pandemic last year. And so it seems only logical to give the sand lizard a second chance. For this reason the German Society for Herpetology and Herpetoculture (DGHT), in cooperation with the Austrian Society for Herpetology (ÖGH), the Coordination Center for Amphibian and Reptile Protection in Switzerland (karch), the Natural History Museum Luxembourg (MNHN) and the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union Germany (NABU), annouce the sand lizard «Reptile of the Year 2021».
Biserkov, V. (2007) -
Biserkov, V. & Kostadinova, A. (1998) -
A data set comprising individual host/parasite lists from 100 Lacerta viridis (Reptilia: Lacertidae) belonging to four isolated populations in Bulgaria was studied. A total of seven helminth species was recovered (Leptophallus nigrooenosus, Plagiorchis molini, Oswaldocruzia filiformis, Spauligodon extenuatus, Skrjabinelaziahoffmanni, Physaloptera clausa and Mesocestoides sp.). Lacerta viridis is a new host record for the first five of these species. Communities of intestinal helminths of L. viridis consist of a few species which resulted in a low species richness, abundance and diversity of infracommunities, which exhibit substantial homogeneity among the four samples. A similar pattern of dominance of two nematode species leading to a relatively high community similarity at both infra- and component community levels was observed. While intestinal helminth communities in lizards from`marginal`habitats were dominated by the host generalist, O. filiformis, those in hosts from `typical` habitats were dominated by the lizard specialist S. extenuatus. The results indicate that the characteristics of the host`s habitat are important in determining the composition rather than structure of intestinal helminth communities in L. viridis.
Biserkov, V. & Naumov, B. & Tsankov, N. & Stoyanov, A. & Petrov, B. &Dobrev, D. & Stoev , P. (2007) -
The current book provides a synthesis of the information concern- ing field identification of all the species and subspecies of Amphibia and Reptilia hitherto registered in Bulgaria. It comprises 61 species and 23 subspecies, among which 5 species (Pelophylax lessonae, P. kurtmuelleri, Hemidactylus turcicus, Eremias arguta, Montivipera xanthina) that have not been found yet on the territory of the country, but which are known from sites in proximity to Bulgar- ian frontiers. The frogs and toads are represented with 14 spe- cies, newts and salamanders with 6 species, turtles and tortoises with 7 species (Trachemys scripta introduced; Caretta caretta and Chelonia mydas considered extinct), and snakes with 19 species (Vipera aspis and V. ursinii considered extinct). The structure of each species’ description includes the following headings: Name, Diagnosis, General Distribution, Distribution in Bulgaria, Habitats, and Biology. Besides in Bulgarian and Latin, all species are sup- plemented with their English, French, German and Russian names. All synonyms in the main herpetological literature are listed after the currently accepted Latin name. Original keys for identification of the families, genera and species, based entirely on morphologi- cal characters of adult specimens, as well as on the structure of amphibians’ eggs and larvae, are elaborated to facilitate the users. A photo gallery, comprising original colour photos shot in nature, and numerous line drawings of different key characters are made for better distinction between the species. For purely conservation- al reasons, the distribution maps not only indicate the scientifically confirmed species distribution in the country, but also show the areas with suitable habitats where a given species is likely to oc- cur. The degree of suitability is indicated with a different degree of shading: optimal (black); suboptimal (80% gray); suitable (60% gray); less suitable (20% gray); white means unsuitable. The guide is also introducing the readers to some general aspects of the tax- onomy, systematics, morphology, biology and ecology of herpeto- fauna. Special chapters are devoted to the methods of observation and capture of amphibians and reptiles, first aid after a snake’s bite, and the relationship between herpetofauna – humans. The status of each species according to main biodiversity conservation acts and conventions is given in Table 1. Being the first publication of its kind, the book is intended for professional herpetologists, students or nature lovers.
Bittencourt-Silva, G.B. (2019) -
A list of 60 species of amphibians and reptiles found during a six-week survey in western Zambia is presented. Two species of amphibians are newly reported for Zambia: Amietia chapini and an undescribed species of Tomopterna, previously known to occur in the Democratic Republic of Congo and in Namibia, respectively. Some of the material collected could not be confidently identified to species level because of the taxonomic complexity and uncertainty of some groups (e.g., Phrynobatrachus, Ptychadena), even with the use of DNA barcoding. This list is a small contribution to the growing knowledge of Zambian and African herpetology.
Blab, J. (1976) -
Blab, J. (1980) -
Reptiles range in the Federal Republic of Germany with the most endangered groups of animals and conservation measures are therefore of great importance for their sur- vival. The ecological requirements of all twelve native species are precisely stated: climatic and microclimatic conditions, substrate humidity, vegetation structures, animals for prey, microstructures, hiding places, hibernation quarters and oviposition sites are decisive factors for the absence or presence of the particular species. The climatic factors are most important for those xerothermic species, which usually reach the northern limit of their range in our country. According to their habitat preference the following three eco- logical groups of reptiles can be separated: (a) Species dependent on open water, (b) species of open to semi-open dry habitats, (c) ecological generalists. The species-specific data regarding the minimal population and habitat size are mostly unknown, but some experimentally obtained data are available. The indigenous species of reptiles are especially endangered through the following factors: (1) Destruction of habitats; (2) direct and indirect poisoning; (3) direct pro- secution and indirect destruction; (4) expulsion through human interference; (5) natural harmful effects (especially of climatic nature). The extent and effects of endangering and corresponding counter-measures are dis- cussed. Special attention is paid to the general aspects of habitat protection, the priorities and model representation of conservation and development measures for reptile habitats. The occurence of reptiles in xerothermic grassland can be secured only if the direct destruction of the habitat by building up, afforestation, wine growing, fertilization and other kinds of intensive use of the land are run down, however, also the secondary fac- tors must forma part of the management: natural succession of crops as in extensive agri- cultural methods, sheep grazing, mowing or combination of mowing and burning. The maintenance and reproduction of reptile populations ·of woodlands needs the provision of light woods, managed according to old methods, and additionally the pro- vision and maintenance of extended and structurally abundant forest edges. The typical reptile population in an area of intensive agriculture requires at least four hectare of extensively managed grassland per each square kilometre; chis area can be either in one part or consist of small scattered `ecological cells`. In order eo maincain ehe reptiles inhabiting wetlands, all efforcs regarding an in- creased draining of these areas must be strict!y prevented. The semi-natural fens and wet meadows need regular management: mowing and removal of mowed grass. For ehe Euro- pean pond terrapin (Emys orbicularis) and the Dice snake (Natrix tessellata) it is pos- sible eo increase ehe qualicy of ehe habitat if additional undisturbed sites for oviposition and sunbathing could be provided. This equally applies to ehe Adder (Vipera berus) and the Grass snake (Natrix natrix). The shortage of food for ehe young specimens could be obviated by establishing amphibian habitats.
Blab, J. (1982) -
The paper discusses the possibilities of methodical improvements of faunistic discern- ing and mapping of reptiles in central Europe. These are based on the knowledge of the biology, behaviour and phenology of central European species. The main topics of the discussion are the procedures in the field and the influence of weather, time of day, and season on the activity of the species to be recorded. Questions related to quantitative surveys are also dealt with. The activity of reptiles is determined by a complex of variable external factors so that only the following basic rules for the efficient recording of reptiles in central Europe can be made: e All fast movements as well as any kind of disturbing of the ecotope have to be avoided, 0 recording during cool, chilly, rainy or windy weather is rather useless, perhaps with some exceptions, e. g. of the Adder (Vipera berus), e the most advantageous periods for recording are from April to mid-June and mid- August to late September/ early October, • the most advantageous times of day are between 9 and 12 a. m. and again from 17 to 19 p. m., Slow worm (Anguis fragilis) a litt!e earlier and later. The observation opportunities differ from species to species, according to the behaviour, e. g. sunbath- ing or territorial behaviour of species such as in case of the Green lizard (Lacerta viridis) exhibiting its blue throat, e the activity of reptiles is particularly advantageous for recording during sunny days following longer periods of rain as well as during the high humidity (i. e. `close, sultry weather`) before thunderstorms.
Blab, J. & Brüggemann, P. & Sauer, H. (1991) -
Blab, J. & Nowak, E. (1976) -
Blackburn, D.G. (1982) -
Reproductive mode data were extracted piecemeal from the literature and superimposed over currently accepted phylogenies to permit estimation of the minimum frequencies with which viviparity (live-bearing) has evolved in lizards, aswell as to facilitateanalysisoffactors hypothesizedto inlluencethis evolution. Viviparity has arisen on at least 45 separate occasions in the Sauria. Each ofthese origins is pinpointed phylogeneticallyas far as is now possible. Ofthese origins, 22 have occurred in the Scincidae, ten in the Iguanidae, five in the Anguidae, two each in the Lacertidae and Gekkonidae, and one each in the Chamaeleontidae, Xantusiidae, Agamidae, and Cordylidae. Further origins may be detected in the Scincidae, Iguanidae, and Diploglossa as phylogenetic relationships are elucidated. Over 19 % of the saurian species are live-bearing, and about 2/3 of the viviparous species are skinks. Most of the sub-generic saurian origins ofviviparity have occurred in cold climates, possibly as an adaptation to facilitate maternal thermoregulation of the developing embryos. Phylogenetic distributions of these origins are consistent with hypotheses that genetic sex-determination of the male-heterogametic type as weil as a tendency towards egg`retention preadapt a lineage for viviparity. Evolution of the live-bearing mode may be constrained by temperature-dependent sex determination, female heterogamety, and formation of highly calcified eggshells.
Blaimont, P.R. (2019) -
Climate change is predicted to severely impact species distributions and extinction risk in the coming decades. Ectotherms, such as lizards, are of particular concern due to their dependence on environmental temperatures to survive and reproduce. The predictions of extreme weather events and increases in global mean temperatures will affect the ability of these organisms to carry out important functions such as feeding or breeding. While we predict that these organisms will face challenges from climate change, examining whether they show evidence of coping with these changes is critical for determining extinction risk and making conservation decisions. In this dissertation, I use treatments of 3-hour (short), 6-hour (mid/control), and 9-hour (long) access to basking heat to investigate how different climate extremes, predicted to increase and worsen under climate change, would impact various aspects of pregnant viviparous European common lizards (Zootoca vivipara). The 3-hour treatments reflect an unusually long series of cool days limiting thermoregulation, 6-hours reflects the “normal” period of contemporary climate and 9-hours reflects periods of long-duration heat spells. In Chapter 1, I look at the flexibility of females to modify their behavior to different basking treatments and how intraspecific variation between populations plays a role. My results demonstrate these lizards exhibit plasticity in basking behavior in response to varying thermal opportunity. However, the magnitude to which they modify their behavior is significantly tempered by environmental characteristics of their population of origin. In Chapter 2, I investigate how basking treatments influence gestation and offspring phenotype, as the offspring life history stage is one of great importance. We found that offspring phenotype was significantly affected by mother basking treatments with local population differences and sexdependent outcomes on size and viability in juveniles. My findings indicate that cooler and warmer temperatures have different effects on progeny phenotype and may have cascading impacts under climate change in the next generation. In Chapter 3, I examine how parasite load varies between populations and whether basking treatments influence a lizard’s ability to fight infection. The basking treatments influenced changes in parasite load in three of the five populations, where we observed a relatively small increase in parasite abundance in lizards in the short and mid/control basking treatment compared to the long treatment. This difference between populations suggests a context-dependent impact of basking opportunities on the capability of lizards to clear parasite infections, under the warm environment treatment (9-h) and provides further evidence that ectothermic host-blood parasite relationships are likely to be impacted by future and contemporary climate change. The results of this dissertation ultimately highlight the complex impacts climate change can have on these organisms and will hopefully encourage further research while raising awareness of this pressing issue.
Blain, H.-A. & Bailon, S. (2003) -
Blain, H.-A. & Monzón, A.M. & López-Garcia, J.M. & Lozano-Fernández, I. & Folie, A. (2019) -
Archeological sites usually provide important information about the past distribution of small vertebrate fauna, and by extension about past terrestrial environments and climate in which human activities took place. In this context, Belgium has an interesting location in northwestern Europe between the fully studied zooarcheological records of Germany and England. We present here the revision of the late Pleistocene (Marine Isotope Stages 3 and 2) collection of the “Caverne Marie-Jeanne” (Hastière-Lavaux, Namur), studied by Jean-Claude Rage in the 1970s and the revision of the whole “indeterminate” small vertebrate materials from the “Caverne Marie-Jeanne” stored in the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences (RBINS) Quaternary collections in search of more herpetofaunal remains. It is now by far the largest late Pleistocene collection at RBINS with more than 20,500 recognized bones of amphibians and reptiles and covering the last 60,000 years. The faunal list comprises two urodeles (Lissotriton gr. L. vulgaris and Salamandra salamandra), four anurans (Bufo gr. B. bufo-spinosus, Epidalea calamita, Rana temporaria and Rana cf. R. arvalis), three lizards (Lacerta cf. L. agilis, Zootoca vivipara and Anguis gr. A. fragilis), and three snakes (Natrix gr. N. natrix, Coronella austriaca, and Vipera berus). This study represents the first fossil record in Belgium for L. gr. L. vulgaris, R. arvalis, Z. vivipara, N. gr. N. natrix and C. austriaca. As a whole, this assemblage suggests a patchy humid landscape under colder and dryer climatic conditions in comparison with present ones. This study also underlines the necessity of a primary separation in larger taxonomical categories by the specialist itself.
Blake, D.K. (1965) -
Blanc, C.P. (1977) -
Blanc, C.P. (1978) -
Blanc, C.P. (1979) -
The four species of the g. Acanthodactylus Wieg., 1834 occuring in Tunisia are quite indidualized by their biomedical relations which, moreover, allow to bring out their relationships. The size of the upper quarter in our sampling oppose two goups of two species each one. The distribution of the ratio between the lenght of the body and that of the tail place apart A. boskianus from the three other species in a more marked way for adults of both sexes than for juveniles.
Une prospection extensive a permis de préciser les aires de répartition et les habitats en Tunisie de L. hispanica et de L. lepida. Un examen des caractères d`écaillure et de coloration les plus utilisés en taxonomie a été réalisé sur un échantillon de 17 L. hispanica en raison des imperfections de la systématique de cette espèce.
The study of colouring and scale pattern of 20 specimens of each of the 4 species represented in Tunisia: A. boskianus (Aud.), A. pardalis (Licht.), A. savignyi (Aud.) and A. inornatus Gray reveals the reasons for difficulties and uncertainties in the classification of this genera. These reasons are the existence of undependant, gradual and progressive variations, which may also be ontological, of the morphological particularities used as specific criteria. The mathematical analysis of 25 types of scale formation showing 71 variables allows us to estimate the interspecific distances which divide the 4 species into 2 groups each of 2 species. It is also possible to establish a dichotomic key based upon various elements of proved validity.
Blanc, C.P. (1980) -
On the basis of our observations, the distribution area of Mesalina guttulata is shown to be extended to the totality of Southern and Saharian Tunisia. M. olivieri has been found scattered over the whole southern portion of the country up to the Oued Medjerda. Differential coloration pattern and biotopes of the two species are described. It is proposed that M. guttulata could correspond to a more specialized and evolved taxon with respect to morphology and ecology.
Extensive field investigations have determined the geographic distribution of four species of Acanthodactylus in Tunisia: A. inornatus, A. pardalis, A. boskianus and A. savignyi blanci. Important changes of the ranges, in comparison to those given in the literature, are available for the last three species. The ranges of these species are here related to bioclimatic zones and habitats.
Blanc, C.P. (1986) -
Blanc, C.P. (1988) -
The herpetological populations in the islands of Zembra and Zembretta -- An extensive research of the Reptilian fauna on these two islands was conducted through three expéditions by the Tunis Science Faculty. The islands of Zembra is populated by three species of lizards Psammodromus algirus (Lacertids), Chalcides ocellatus (Scincids) and Hemidactylus turcicus (Gekkonids) and the three species of Colubrid snakes: Malpolon monspessulanus, Macroprotodon cucullatus, Coluber hippocrepis. On the Island of Zembretta only the three species of lizards mentioned above were found. Their distribution and biotope were precised. Two sea turtles visit their costal waters: Caretta caretta (Chelonids) and Dermochelys coriacea (Dermochelyids). The terrestrial herpetofauna on Zembra and Zembretta displays the fundamental characteristics of an insular environment — spécific poorness: the western slopes of the Cap Bon tip include 11 Lacertids, 7 Ophids, 3 Chelonids and 6 Batrachian species. — individual abundance in the Zembra Lacertid populations and even more on Zembretta. — composition unbalance: some species would not find convenient biotops or preys on these two islands but the absence of a few others species cannot be ecologically explained.
Blanc, C.P. & Ineich, I. (1985) -
A multidimensional analysis of 34 characters of the colouring and scale pattern, providing 101 mathematical variables, applied to 77 Acanthodactylus collected in ten field stations in the Saharien Far-South of Tunisia, reveals a gradual and continuous morphological variation from populations of Acanthodactylus inornatus (with the back and sides of their body blackly reticulated and short legs) to populations with a A. longipes habitus (orange light body with small dorsal white spots, faint or nul black marks on their flanks and longer legs). Variation axis, approximately directed from North to South, also express an habitat difference between the populations dwelling on the reg nebkhas and sandy knolls in the beds and edges of the rivers (oueds) and those restricted to the high sand dunes of the Great Eastern Erg. The taxonomic status of the Acanthodactylus populations living in the Southern Tunisia should obviously be revised in relation with a high and mostly uncorrelated variability of the morphological characters of diagnostic use.
Blanc, C.P. & Nouira, S. (1987) -
Applied to 135 Acanthodactylus, from eight clusters of collecting sites, a multidimensional analysis of 11 characters, mainly of colouring and scale patterns, providing 35 mathematical variables, reveals a hight intrapopulational variability. Samples dwelling on reg nebkhas and sandy knolls in the river beds are Acanthodactylus inornatus. Some specimens, in the sample from barkhanes and sand dunes areas, are morphologically close to A. longipes.
Blanc, C.P. & Nouira, S. (1988) -
Herpetologic fauna of Kerkennah islands: check list, geographic distribution and zoogeography. -- During a survey of Kerkennah islands, the check-list of Reptiles and Amphibians has been established to eleven species belonging to two classes, to seven families and to eleven genera. Geographic distribution on the islands and habitats of most species has been reported All species have a large distribution area in continental Tunisia and zoogeographic affinities are mainly with Mediterranean region.
Blanc, C.P. & Sciotino, P. (1978) -
Blanc, F. (1978) -
Blanc, F. (1984) -
Acanthodactylus pardalis, a small lizard whose morphological variation is high, is found in sandy areas. The species is widespread in Tunisia, from the Saharan zone in deep south to the northern coast with strong variations in population density. Genetic variability of Acanthodactylus pardalis has been estimated from analysis of 22 protein loci in samples of five populations, including an insular population and a coastal isolate. Rate of polymorphism and heterozygosity are high; the insular sample (Kerkennah Island) is one of the two most variable genetically, along with one continental sample. While theses samples were collected in areas where Acanthodactylus densities were highest, including on Kerkennah island, species numbers of diurnal lizards were lowest in the same areas, including the continental area concerned.
Blanc, F. (1988) -
Blanc, F. & Cariou, M.-L. (1980) -
Allozymic variation at 22 loci was analyzed in four species of the lacertid Acanthodactylus occurring in Tunisia. Only two loci were strictly monomorphic in all samples. Five loci are highly polymorphic and contribute largely to the total variability. Mean heterozygosity ranks from 14% to 25%. No obvious relation was found between this level of variability and habitat, environment requirements or territoriality of these species.
Blanc, F. & Cariou, M.-L. (1987) -
Acanthodactylus is a widespread lacertid genus including about thirthy species whose systematics remains much debated. The present study is aimed at improving the taxonomic status of the Tunisian species whose geographical distribution and ecological requirements have been studied elsewhere. Allozymic variation at 22 loci was scored in 14 populations for a total of 249 individuals. High genetic variability is confirmed in all samples; it is higher in species displaying a wide bioclimatic habitat range. No reduction of genetic variability was observed in two insular populations. Any interspecific hybrid could be detected from our genetic data, even in sympatric areas arguing in favor of specific status of four taxons in Northern, Central and Southern Tunisia. Phylogenetic relationships are discussed on the basis of UPGMA and Fitch-Margoliash procedures applied to the genetic distances matrix and centered data analysis of allozyme frequencies.
Blanc, F. & Cariou, M.-L. & Blanc, C. (1980) -
Electrophoretic analysis of allozymes encoded by 22 loci supports the specific status of four lizard taxa in the genus Acanthodactylus. LDH-2 appears as a diagnostic locus for the four species. Measures of genetic distance suggest two groups: A. inornatus- A. savignyi and A. pardalis- A. boskianus. A. boskianus relationships might yet be modified when intraspecific variability is more extensively known.
Blanchard, R. (1880) -
Blanchard, R. (1891) -
Blanchard, R. (1894) -
Blanckaert, A. & Hermans, J. (2009) -
The very rare common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768)) is in the Netherlands only present in Maastricht. This is the utmost Northern limit of the range of the species. For a long time it only lived in the Hoge- and Lage Fronten. The species has enlarged its range in the first half of the twentieth century. Part of the railroad between Maastricht and Lanaken, Belgium, which has not been used since the 1980s, was colonized. ProRail B.V., the supervisor of the railroad, plans to reactivate the railroad. An exemption of the Flora- en faunawet (Flora- and fauna-law), requiring the creation of an compensation area, has been obtained. In order to realize this, RAVON (Reptiles, amphibians and Fish Research Netherlands) was given the assignment to formulate a design plan, an implementation plan, and a management plan for the compensation of the lost habitat of the common wall lizard and some other reptile and plant species. The restoration of the railroad and the realisation of the alternative area commenced in 2008. The main components of the area are 25 stacked walls. The population, consisting of 107 individuals, was translocated to 10 of these walls. Translocation projects are rarely successful. Projects (worldwide) regarding reptiles and amphibians fail in 65% of the time when the motivation for translocation is due to a conflict with humanity. Realisation of compensation for lost habitat is problematic due to insufficient inventories, lack of expertise, lack of supervision and absence of monitoring and evaluation. The goal of this study is to gain insight in the quality of the compensatory project. In order to evaluate the compensatory habitat the quality (durable state of preservation) is evaluated by comparing it with successful/dense populated areas (Hoge Fronten and Lage Fronten) and literature. Additionally, 190 (focal animal) observations, which take up to 34hrs in total, were carried out in the Hoge- and Lage Fronten in order to determine which components of the habitat of the common wall lizard are intensely used and thus considered essential. Furthermore, the current condition of the population was mapped. The components of the habitat which are evaluated in this study are: design and positioning of the walls and the vegetation on and around the walls. Concerning the population: numbers, demography, use of territories and the presence of reproduction. The compensatory habitat is situated alongside the railroad between Maastricht and Lanaken. The successful habitats are also situated in Maastricht. In order to evaluate the design of the walls, the building style and use of materials are compared to those of successful habitats. The frost resistance was measured by determining the width of possible winter holes. Positioning of the walls was evaluated by measuring exposure to sun, wind and human disturbances. Wall vegetation coverage and mapping of vegetation around the walls was compared to that of three densely populated walls in the Hoge- and Lage Fronten. Population size was measured by two observers who walked along transects that are alongside all components of the compensatory area and they recorded all observed individuals. Here, individual recognition, in the form of photography, was used. Mapping of territories was also done by individual recognition. It was found that the compensation area differs from the successful habitats and literature on several areas. Walls were homogeneously built, 38% of the walls were sufficiently frost resistant. Researchers have speculated about hibernation in the ground. It is well know that the common wall lizard usually hibernates in walls. There is also a heavy disturbance from transport truck traffic. Currently, the population consists of 11 individuals of which 8 are adults. It cannot be determined whether the decrease in population size was due to emigration or mortality. It is also possible that observed individuals colonized the compensation area from other nearby locations. In conclusion, the compensatory area is of insufficient quality in its current condition for a durable state of preservation. The population size is too low to speak of a viable population. Relatively uncomplicated adjustments can improve the habitat substantially, such as: creating openings in the flanks of the walls and placing bricks of large rocks alongside the walls. More radical adaptations would be to improve the frost resistance and narrow the Industrieweg. Considering colonization is plausible the future outlook for certain regions of the area is positive.
Blanco Alvarez, Y. (2016) -
Blanco Villero, J.M. & Márquez-Aguilar, A. & Sáez-Bolano, J. & Sánchez-Garcia, B. & Sánchez-Garcia, I. (1995) -
Blanco, J.C. & González, J.L. (1992) -
Blanford, W.T. (1870) -
Blanford, W.T. (1874) -
Blanford, W.T. (1875) -
Blanford, W.T. (1876) -
Blanford, W.T. (1878) -
Blanford, W.T. (1881) -
Blanke, I. (1995) -
Blanke, I. (1996) -
In the studied population basking sites were frequendly used by two ore more Lacerta agilis at the same time. Partly the lizards basked with direct body contact.
Blanke, I. (1999) -
Blanke, I. (2004) -
Blanke, I. (2006) -
Artificial refuges are often recommended as a tool in reptile surveys, especially for slow-worms and smooth snakes. In Britain the use of refuges is much more common than on the continent (with its wide spread wild pigs). Since 2004, refuges are used in two Natura 2000 sites with very poor reptile populations in Lower-Saxony (northwest Germany). Here, the refuges are used in addition to direct search in the open and beneath natural hiding places. The aims of these studies are the evaluation of management success and the monitoring of smooth snakes and sand lizards in Natura 2000 sites. In dry heathlands five wooden boards were placed in each of four sites. In each of four wet heathlands five metal sheets (‘tins’) were placed. In the first year, these 40 refuges led to 32 encounters of reptiles (only lizards) and six species records for the different sites. During the »normal« assessment, 75 encounters and 22 records of species for the eight sites were made. In 2005, the numbers of encounters were similar (110 with refuges, 111 other), but at the different sites the number of species proved beneath refuges was still lower than in the normal search (15 : 20). In the whole period, 142 observations of reptiles were made with the refuges, mainly records of slow-worms (123) and smooth snakes (10). 186 observations were made with the normal search (including 34 under »natural« refuges like tree trunks and litter). 86 observations of sand lizards and 12 of smooth snakes were made in the open. Most of the smooth snake records (26) were made under pre-existing objects (e. g. tree trunks, scrap metal) that provide refuges. The numbers of smooth snake individuals under natural refuges/pre-existing objects, artifical refuges and in the open were similar (7 each). In habitats with good structures the smooth snakes were almost found in the open, whilst they were found mainly under different types of refuges in poorer habitats. In total, 68 % of slow worm, 2 % of sand lizard, 12 % common lizard, 21 % of smooth snake, 25 % of grass snake and 13 % of adder encounters were made under/on refuges. An average of 1.78 reptile and 0.12 smooth snake encounters were made per refuge and year. There were great differences in the effectiveness of refuges in the different areas and for the different species. The literature also shows wide variation in the effectiveness of refuges. In different surveys, they are responsible for 28–99 % of slow-worm, 0–34 % of sand lizard, 0–67 % of common lizard, 0–100 % of smooth snake, 0–88 % of grass snake and 0–74 % of adder encounters.
Blanke, I. (2008) -
Blanke, I. (2010) -
Blanke, I. (2012) -
Blanke, I. (2015) -
Blanke, I. (2019) -
Reptile species naturally occurring in Lower Saxony are slow worm (Anguis fragilis), common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), grass snake (Natrix natrix), smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and adder (Vipera berus). The following paper briefly describes their biology, typical habitats, habitat requirements and outlines the legal framework. It aims at presenting management techniques to develop, preserve and maintain their habitats in Lower Saxony in a reptile-friendly way. In principle, maintaining open landscapes is favourable for all reptile species. In practice, it depends on the specific habitat management aims and methods whether the impact on reptile populations is actually positive or not. For example, it is often assumed that reptiles inhabit very open sites with low vegetation. Instead, they are often found on ruderal sites with rather dense grass patches. Habitats consisting of purple moor grass (Molinia caerulea), wavy hair-grass (Deschampsia flexuosa) or wood small reed (Calamagrostis epigejos) possibly cause conflicts with other management aims. Furthermore, the chosen management technique itself is crucial for reptile populations, and especially the way it is applied. Commonly used habitat management techniques like mechanical removement of shrubs and trees, mowing, cutting, controlled burning and grazing are reviewed here as to their suitability regarding reptile conservation. Reptiles are highly sensitive to grazing. In Lower Saxony, some reptile populations declined severely on grazed sites even though the overall vegetation structure still appeared favourable. Reptiles are negatively affected by the typical effects of grazing, since it is on a bigger scale, random, and often the vegetation is browsed to ground level. Mechanical removal of vegetation is preferable, especially if general measures to safeguard animals are taken (e. g. cutting height adjustment, division in subplots). The specific recommendations given here (when, where, and how different habitat management techniques should be applied), are differentiated based on the importance of a given site for reptile conservation (special, general or little importance). In habitats of special importance, reptile protection and conservation has top priority, considering the degree of risk to reptile species and their unfavourable conservation status. However, these sites are usually quite small (a few hundred square meters, often smaller). Whereas in (often large) areas of little importance, habitat management does not need any special requirements for reptiles.
Blanke, I. (2020) -
Im Juni 2020 wurde am MegaHub Lehrte mit dem Güterumschlag zwischen Zug und Lkw begonnen. –Auf der innovativen Schnellumschlaganlage für den Kombinierten Verkehr verteilen drei Portalkräne die Container schnell, leise, energieeffizient und umweltfreundlich zwischen Schiene und Straße sowie zwischen Zügen. Neben der Technik fand auch die Natur neuen Raum. Nicht nur in „Eidechsenhausen“, auch in weiteren Schutzzonen und in umliegenden Ausgleichsflächen vor Ort tummeln sich streng geschützte Zauneidechsen und andere seltene Arten.
Blanke, I. (2022) -
Blanke, I. & & Böhme, W. (2023) -
The concolor morph in the Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara) We report on the discovery of a (nearly) patternless Common or Viviparous Lizard (Zootoca vivipara) from Lower Saxony (not far away from Hannover). Its appearance corresponded to the so called concolor morph which is known from other lizards (especially Lacerta and Podarcis species, Kramer 1941). Our research revealed further records of (nearly) patternless Viviparous Lizards. In patternless Z. vivipara, the occipital line on the middle of the back might be faintly recognisable, whereas the other typical drawing elements are missing. A description using the term concolor did not seem to exist for Z. vivipara until now. We propose this name for the colour variant presented here.
Blanke, I. & Fearnley, H. (2015) -
Blanke, I. & Laufer, H. (2025) -
Reptiles in track ballast – Risk potential and measures for better protection during construction projects and maintenance work. We present statements from federal authorities, German Railways, and our own data on the importance of track ballast for reptiles. Our observations range from high-speed lines to regional and disused railway tracks. Wall lizards typically occur in high densities. In some cases, thousands per kilometre were recovered from track ballast. For sand lizards and slow worms, hundreds are not uncommon (or would be with appropriate catch periods). Snakes were recovered or captured in tens per kilometre of ballast. Mortality rates during work on ballast depend in particular on the current proportion of reptiles in the ballast. This is influenced not least by the time of year, time of day, and weather conditions. We present literature that emphasises very serious risks from work on gravel ballast. Elsewhere, a greater impact on reptiles is disputed or denied; so-called abstracts from authorities partly contradict the contents of studies. According to our observations, wall lizards remain on and in the ballast when track construction trains/large machines are being used; this behaviour is likely to be typical for other reptiles as well. During hibernation in the ballast, snakes and lizards are unable to escape anyway. We make suggestions for better protection during maintenance and construction work, including through expert supervision of careful excavation work in important reptile areas.
Blanke, I. & Lorenz, S. (2019) -
Blanke, I. & M. Frese (2021) -
Blanke, I. & Mertens, D. (2013) -
Blanke, I. & Podloucky, R. (2000) -
The present knowledge of the distribution of red-backed Sand Lizard in eastern Lower Saxony is presented. Of a grid corresponding to the Topographical Map 1:25.000 the `erythronotus`-mutant has been reported out of 11 grids since 1981. Populations with redbacked Sand Lizard are mainly found on railway embankments, frequently extended to several kilometer. The status (distribution, threats and conservation) of the Sand Lizard in Lower Saxony is briefly described.
Blanke, I. & Schulte, U. (2016) -
Verschiedene Regionen von Niedersachsen und Rheinland-Pfalz werden vorgestellt und die dortigen typischen Lebensräume von Reptilien beschrieben. An den örtlichen Gegebenheiten (Naturraum, am Standort vorkommenden Reptilienarten, Biotope und Pflanzen) sollten sich Schutzmaßnahmen orientieren. Vorrangige landschaftstypische Schutzmaßnahmen sind insbesondere die Sicherung und Wiederherstellung von Lebensräumen und Vergrößerungen ihrer Fläche sowie eine reptilienfreundliche Pflege. Gabionen und Steinriegel kommen als Maßnahme vor allem in Rebgebieten mit autochthonen Vorkommen der Mauereidechse in Betracht. Die Eignung von Gabionen und anderen Durchlässen als Querungshilfe in Lärmschutzwänden wird diskutiert. Hinweis: Bezieht sich auch auf Zaun- und Waldeidechse. Die Querungsexperimente an Lärmschutzwänden erfolgten mit Zauneidechsen.
Blanke, I. & Schulte, U. (2022) -
Non-native wall lizards in Germany – Dispersal, legal framework, and recommendations for management. There are naturally two subspecies of the wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in Germany: P. m. brongniardii in southwestern Germany and P. m. maculiventris -West only in the Inn Valley of Bavaria on the border with Austria. Of both lineages, numerous allochthonous (not native to the locality) occurrences are found scattered throughout Germany. The recognition characteristics of this lineages as well as of another frequently introduced lineage (Venetian lineage) are presented. In the natural range, dispersals of individual populations were observed; shifts of the range margins did not occur. Known occurrences of alien wall lizards are spreading rapidly. The currently northernmost known occurrence is located at 53.37°N at a dike culvert (Siel) in the North of Winsen (Luhe). Currently, at least one occurrence is known from 153 TK25 quadrants. Wall lizards are only strictly protected in their native range, otherwise the regulations for non-native species apply. Non-native wall lizards are considered invasive, and allochthonous and hybrid populations should never be translocated. From a nature conservation perspective, measures to contain and control allochthonous populations seem to be necessary. Recommendations on how to manage non-native wall lizards are presented; these have already been created by the federal states of Bavaria, Lower Saxony, and Rhineland-Palatinate.
Blanke, I. & Seyring, M. & Wagner, N. (2020) -
Blanke, I. & U. Schulte (2022) -
Non-native wall lizards in Germany – Dispersal, legal framework, and recommendations for management There are naturally two subspecies of the wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in Germany: P. m. brongniardii in southwestern Germany and P. m. maculiventris-West only in the Inn Valley of Bavaria on the border with Austria. Of both lineages, numerous allochthonous (not native to the locality) occurrences are found scattered throughout Germany. The recognition characteristics of this lineages as well as of another frequently introduced lineage (Venetian lineage) are presented. In the natural range, dispersals of individual populations were observed; shifts of the range margins did not occur. Known occurrences of alien wall lizards are spreading rapidly. The currently northernmost known occurrence is located at 53.37 °N at a dike culvert (Siel) in the North of Winsen (Luhe). Currently, at least one occurrence is known from 153 TK25 quadrants. Wall lizards are only strictly protected in their native range, otherwise the regulations for non-native species apply. Non-native wall lizards are considered invasive, and allochthonous and hybrid populations should never be translocated. From a nature conservation perspective, measures to contain and control allochthonous populations seem to be necessary. Recommendations on how to manage non-native wall lizards are presented; these have already been created by the federal states of Bavaria, Lower Saxony, and Rhineland-Palatinate .
Blanke, I. & Völkl, W. (2015) -
An drei Beispielen (Mobilität, Flächenbedarf und Korrekturfaktoren) werden Fehldarstellungen der Biologie der Zauneidechse in Veröffentlichungen zur Anwendung des strengen Artenschutzes bei und im Vorfeld von Eingriffen und ähnlichen Verfahren vorgestellt. Am Beispiel von CEF-Maßnahmen werden Fehlauslegungen und -darstellungen des rechtlichen Rahmens erörtert. Diese fehlerhaften Darstellungen gehen jeweils zu Lasten des Artenschutzes. Mit Ihrer Hilfe können Eingriffsfolgen und fehlende Ausgleichsmöglichkeiten verschleiert und zudem der Bedarf für Kompensationsflächen reduziert werden. Einige für die Zauneidechse nachteilige Konstrukte wurden durch Fehlbewertungen im FFH-Bewertungsschema ermöglicht. Dieses wird daher kurz vorgestellt und auf anstehende Korrekturen verwiesen.
Blanke, I. & Wartlick, M. & Schleupner, B. & Mertens, D. (2024) -
Blasco, M, (1974) -
Blasco, M. (1975) -
We have studies the femoral pores of 387 subjects belonging to five species of Lacertidae family (Reptilia) of the región of Andalucia (Spain): Lacerta hispanica Steind., Lacerta lepida Daud., Psammodromus algirus L., Psammodromus hispanicus Fitz., Acanthodactylus erythrurus Schinz. We have observed that these femoral pores have a big importance in the sexual dimorphism which can be observed in the subjects after the birth. Possibly they take part in the phenomenous connected with the territorial behaviour of animals.
Blasco, M. (1980) -
Blasco, M. & Lucena, J. (1975) -
Blasius, W. (1897) -
Blazevic, S. & Nikolic, B . & Glogoski, M. & Lisicic, D. & Hranilovic, D. (2018) -
Besides representing an important model for studies in the fields of conservation biology, ecophysiology and evolution, lizards may be interesting as a model in translational research for the elucidation of the underlying mechanisms of behavior and its adaptive value. The Italian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) is a highly adaptable species that occupies a variety of habitats (the main area of distribution is Italy and the eastern Adriatic coast with surrounding islands) and undergoes population specific adaptations in morphology, physiology and behavior. In this study, we explored the potential of P. sicula as a model for exploratory behavior by comparing its behavioral and neurochemical parameters to those of the Wistar rat, a behavioral model well established in our Laboratory. Exploratory behavior of 28 lizards was analyzed in open field as time spent in movement, total distance travelled, percent of time spent in the central area, and number of rearings. The levels of dopamine (DA) and noradrenaline (NA) were determined in brain tissue homogenates of 20 lizards using the standard ELISA kit for human catecholamines. P. sicula displayed the whole spectrum of behavior in open field with comparable average number of rearings and % time in open space to those of rats. They spent more time in movement, with lower speed, travelling therefore less total distance than rats in a 10 min experiment. We were able to reliably measure catecholamine levels in 50x diluted whole-brain homogenates, and they amounted to 417 ± 116 pg/mg DA and 917 ± 170 pg/mg NA, which is about one order of magnitude higher than in rat brain cortex. Our results speak in favor of the use of P. sicula as a potential model for studying the neurochemical basis of behavioral adaptation in laboratory conditions.
Blazevic, S.A. & Glogoski, M. & Gajsek, T. & Buric, D. & Josic, P. & Lisicic, D. (2017) -
The Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus and the Dalmatian wall lizard, Podarcis melisellensis are two lizards from the family of Lacertidae. When this two species share same habitat, P. siculus outcompetes P. melisellensis as a dominant competitor, usually leading to extinction of P. melisellensis. We investigated the behavior of these two species of lizards, Podarcis siculus and Podarcis melisellensis in a new environment. In order to do so, we observed habituation period in the open field test and 8-arm radial maze. Habituation is an extremely simple form of learning, in which an animal, after a period of exposure to a stimulus, stops responding. We had 28 specimens of each species, 14 females and 14 males. Each experiment lasted between 15 and 23 minutes. Parameters of interest were: latency time, time spent in the central vs. marginal area and returning into hiding place. We tested for the behavioral differences between the species and sexes. After behavioral testing, the animals we sacrificed and levels of monoamines (5ht, DA, NA) in the brain was analyzed with HPLC. P. melisellensis showed bolder behavior, spending more time in open spaces, while P. siculus was more agile and found food quicker and in general learned faster than P. melisellensis. Consistent with literature, females were bolder than males. Specific traits correlated with neurotransmitter levels. Each species adapted in a different way to the same environment. We propose these two species of lizards as a good model for understanding the neurobiological basis of adaptive behavior, warranting further research.
Blazevic, S.A. & Glogoski, M. & Nikolic, B. & Hews, D.K. & Lisicic, D. & Hranilovic, D. (2020) -
Adaptive behavior is shaped by the type and intensity of selection pressures coming from the environment, such as predation risk and resource availability, and can be modulated by individual`s neuroendocrine profile involving steroid hormones and the brain-stem monoaminergic circuits projecting to forebrain structures. Boldness when faced with a predator and exploration/activity when confronted with a new environment reflect the degree of cautiousness and/or “risk-taking” of an individual. In this study we have explored to which extent two populations of Podarcis siculus occupying different ecological niches: mainland (ML) and an islet (ISL) differ in the level of cautiousness and whether these differences are paralleled by differences in their monoaminergic profiles. Boldness was tested in the field as antipredator behavior, while novel space and object explorations were tested in a laboratory setting in an open field apparatus. Finally, serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline (NA) and adrenaline (ADR) concentrations were measured in whole brain samples by ELISA. Lizards from ML population spent significantly more time hiding after a predator encounter in the field, displayed lower intensity of novel space exploration in a laboratory setting, and contained significantly higher whole-brain concentrations of NA and ADR than their ISL counterparts. Parallelism between the level of risk-taking behavior and concentrations of neurotransmitters mediating alertness and reaction to stress suggests that the differing environmental factors on ML and ISL may have shaped the degree of cautiousness in the residing lizard populations by affecting the activity of NA/ADR neural circuits.
Blazquez-Costra, S. & Barrientos, R. & Megia-Palma, R. (2023) -
Blessig, E. (1885) -
Bleu, J. (2011) -
Viviparity (i.e. live-bearing) has evolved many times from oviparity (i.e. egg-laying), especially in squamates (i.e. lizards and snakes). This group is the one that has undergone the highest number of independent evolution of viviparity. Moreover, squamates have evolved viviparity in geologically-recent times and at low taxonomic levels. The common lizard is one of the rare species that exhibits both viviparity and oviparity. I thus used this species for my study on the costs and benefits of viviparity. I first studied adjustments of reproductive investment and gestation costs. I observed the absence of post-ovulatory adjustments of litter size, litter mass and offspring mass. However, I observed that females can adjust these parameters in response to the environmental conditions during vitellogenesis, to their body condition and to their parturition date of the previous year. Then, in order to study gestation costs, I used experimental approaches based on a manipulation of mating opportunity, on two manipulations of litter size, and on a comparison between oviparous and viviparous females. These studies highlighted context-dependent effects of gestation on the immune system, on the thermoregulatory behavior, on the endurance capacity and on the loss of mass of females; however, no effect on survival after parturition was observed. The comparative study showed that reproductive costs were higher for oviparous females than viviparous females before gestation. Furthermore, gestation is a period associated not only with costs but also with maternal effects. I have shown that offspring growth after birth depends on litter size during gestation. However, as often, the underlying mechanism of this maternal effect is not known. To investigate the underlying factors of maternal effects, I have developed an experimental approach based on the in vitro incubation of viviparous lizard embryos. Preliminary results are promising as I have managed to obtain live juveniles by this process. Finally, I have shown effects of grand-maternal age in viviparous lizards. This study gives the first evidence of grand-maternal age effects in a wild population.
Bleu, J. & Galliard, J.F. de & Fitze, P.S. & Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. & Massot, M. (2013) -
Optimisation of reproductive investment is crucial for Darwinian fitness, and detailed long-term studies are especially suited to unravel reproductive allocation strategies. Allocation strategies depend on the timing of resource acquisition, the timing of resource allocation, and trade-offs between different life-history traits. A distinction can be made between capital breeders that fuel reproduction with stored resources and income breeders that use recently acquired resources. In capital breeders, but not in income breeders, energy allocation may be decoupled from energy acquisition. Here, we tested the influence of extrinsic (weather conditions) and intrinsic (female characteristics) factors during energy storage, vitellogenesis and early gestation on reproductive investment, including litter mass, litter size, offspring mass and the litter size and offspring mass trade-off. We used data from a long-term study of the viviparous lizard, Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara. In terms of extrinsic factors, rainfall during vitellogenesis was positively correlated with litter size and mass, but temperature did not affect reproductive investment. With respect to intrinsic factors, litter size and mass were positively correlated with current body size and postpartum body condition of the previous year, but negatively with parturition date of the previous year. Offspring mass was negatively correlated with litter size, and the strength of this trade-off decreased with the degree of individual variation in resource acquisition, which confirms theoretical predictions. The combined effects of past intrinsic factors and current weather conditions suggest that common lizards combine both recently acquired and stored resources to fuel reproduction. The effect of past energy store points out a trade-off between current and future reproduction.
Bleu, J. & Galliard, J.F. le & Meylan, S. & Massot, M. & Fitze, P. (2011) -
Mating is crucial for females that reproduce exclusively sexually and should influence their investment into reproduction. Although reproductive adjustments in response to mate quality have been tested in a wide range of species, the effect of exposure to males and mating per se has seldom been studied. Compensatory mechanisms against the absence of mating may evolve more frequently in viviparous females, which pay higher direct costs of reproduction, due to gestation, than oviparous females. To test the existence of such mechanisms in a viviparous species, we experimentally manipulated the mating opportunity of viviparous female lizard, Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara. We assessed the effect of mating on ovulation, postpartum body condition and parturition date, as well as on changes in locomotor performances and body temperatures during the breeding cycle. Female lizards ovulated spontaneously and mating had no influence on litter size, locomotor impairment or on selected body temperature. However, offspring production induced a more pronounced locomotor impairment and physical burden than the production of undeveloped eggs. Postpartum body condition and parturition dates were not different among females. This result suggests that gestation length is not determined by an embryonic signal. In the common lizard, viviparity is not associated with facultative ovulation and a control of litter size after ovulation, in response to the absence of mating.
Bleu, J. & Massot, M. & Haussy, C. & Meylan, S. (2012) -
Experimental studies have often been employed to study costs of reproduction, but rarely to study costs of gestation. Disentangling the relative importance of each stage of the reproductive cycle should help to assess the costs and benefits of different reproductive strategies. To that end, we experimentally reduced litter size during gestation in a viviparous lizard. We measured physiological and behavioural parameters during gestation and shortly after parturition, as well as survival and growth of females and their offspring. This study showed four major results. First, the experimental litter size reduction did not significantly affect the cellular immune response, the metabolism and the survival of adult females. Second, females with reduced litter size decreased their basking time. Third, these females also had an increased postpartum body condition. As postpartum body condition is positively related to future reproduction, this result indicates a gestation cost. Fourth, even though offspring from experimentally reduced litters had similar weight and size at birth as other offspring, their growth rate after birth was significantly increased. This shows the existence of a maternal effect during gestation with delayed consequences. This experimental study demonstrates that there are some costs to gestation, but it also suggests that some classical trade-offs associated with reproduction may not be explained by gestation costs.
Bleu, J. & Massot, M. & Haussy, C. & Meylan, S. (2013) -
The trade-offs between reproduction and survival or future reproduction represent the costs of reproduction, which are central to the theory of life-history traits evolution. In particular, different stages of the reproductive cycle may be associated with different costs and thus explain the evolution of alternative reproductive strategies. Viviparity (live bearing) has evolved from oviparity (egg laying) several times independently in vertebrates. To better understand these transitions, we aimed to specifically investigate gestation costs in a squamate reptile with a new experimental procedure. We reduced litter size during gestation in the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) with a hormonal injection of arginine vasotocin. This method is less invasive than a surgical method and does not reduce the number of offspring of future reproductive events. We monitored body mass change, immune response, endurance capacity, thermoregulatory behavior, offspring characteristic at birth, female and offspring survival, female body mass gain after parturition, and offspring growth rate after birth. Maternal treatment did not significantly change the offspring characteristics measured. Thus, litter size reduction did not change offspring development during gestation. For the females, there is evidence that endurance capacity during gestation is modified because of the physical burden of the litter and because of physiological changes. With respect to gestation costs, we did not observe a trade-off between the investment during gestation and females` resources postparturition (female body mass) or survival, but there was a facultative trade-off with the immune response. It will be interesting to replicate this study to increase the robustness of these results and to confirm the effects on the endurance capacity and the immune response. Gestation costs seem to be limited in this species, and they should be studied in more detail to evaluate their influence on the evolution of viviparity.
Bleu, J. & Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. & Massot, M. (2022) -
1. Age at reproduction can influence the survival and future reproduction of an individual as well as that of their offspring. Remarkably, it has been shown that grandmaternal age at reproduction can also affect the characteristics of grandoffspring in humans and in laboratory or semi-captive animals. However, currently we do not know whether grandmaternal age effects exist in wild populations. 2. We gathered data on female age at reproduction, offspring and grandoffspring characteristics using a 16-year long-term survey of a natural population of the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara. The dataset contains 579 grandoffspring from 135 litters. 3. Body size at birth was not correlated with grandmaternal age at reproduction. However, grandoffspring body condition at birth, grandoffspring survival and reproductive performance of granddaughters were dependent on grandmaternal age. These relationships were independent of maternal age. 4. An age-structured model showed that the global effect of grandmaternal age was non linear and was largely driven by its effect on grandoffspring survival. Fitness was higher for granddaughters produced by grandmothers of intermediate ages. 5. The study shows that age can shape life-history traits for more than one generation, documenting the importance that grandmaternal age can have in wild populations.
Blin, A. (2010) -
Blitterswijk, H. van & Stumpel, A.H.P. & Arens, P.F.P. & Ottburg, F.G.W.A. (2005) -
Blom, P. (1950) -
Blomberg, P. (2006) -
Blondheim, S. & Werner, Y.L. (1989) -
Bloor, P. (2006) -
Eight polymorphic microsatellite loci are described for the Iberian rock lizard species, Iberolacerta cyreni. Loci were isolated from a partial genomic library that had been enriched for AAAG repeat sequence. Number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 13 in a sample of 24 individuals from the Sierra de Guadarrama (central Spain). Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.13 to 0.96. At least three loci were amplified and polymorphic in four other Iberian rock lizard species: Iberolacerta monticola, Iberolacerta bonnali, Iberolacerta aranica and Iberolacerta aurelioi. These markers will be used to study mating strategies and reproductive success in I. cyreni.
Bloor, P. & Brown, R. (2005) -
A detailed uni- and multivariate analysis of within-island geographical variation in scalation and body dimensions of the lacertid lizard, Gallotia atlantica, from Lanzarote (and two neighbouring offshore islets) was carried out. Twomain morphological groupings were detected: four populations clustered within a putative malpaís group, i.e. from relatively recent volcanic lava fields (seven populations were sampled from these areas), while the other 19 populations (including the three remaining malpaís populations, and those from the offshore islets of Montaña Clara and Alegranza) also clustered together. Thus, while there is a tendency for occupation of malpaís areas to be related to morphological variation, this model does have some inconsistencies. The differentiated malpaís group comprises populations from two geographically isolated areas, one from the central-western part of the island (Timanfaya) and the other from the north (Malpaís de la Corona). The divergence of these populations is considered to have arisen recently, rather than their being relicts of an ancient, formerly widespread, lineage. The morphological variation partially supports the previous use of two different subspecies to describe the within-island variation. However, if such a scheme were applied then one of the subspecies would need to encompass populations from the geographically separated southern Timanfaya and Malpaís de la Corona areas, as opposed to just the latter. We reject previous observations that either malpaís individuals in general, or those corresponding to the north-eastern subspecies, are larger than individuals from other areas. The pattern of morphological variation of G. atlantica within Lanzarote is less pronounced but shows some similarities with patterns of morphological variation in lizards from neighbouring islands.
Bloor, P. & Davila, J.A. (2008) -
Eight microsatellite loci are described for the lizard Psammodromus algirus, a species widely used as a model in behavioural and ecological studies. All loci were highly polymorphic (six alleles or more per locus) in a sample of 24 individuals from a single site near Navacerrada (central Spain). Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.29 to 0.96. These markers will be used to study mating strategies and determinants of reproductive success in this species.
Bloor, P. & De Laguna, H.-B. & Kemp, S.J. (2006) -
We describe 10 polymorphic tetranucleotide microsatellite loci from the eastern Canary Island lacertid lizard, Gallotia atlantica. Loci were isolated from a partial genomic library that had been enriched for AAAG repeat sequence. All loci were highly polymorphic (eight alleles or more) with observed heterozygosities from 0.75 to 1.00. At least four loci were successfully amplified and polymorphic in the Gran Canarian lacertid, Gallotia stehlini. These loci will be used to examine correlations between patterns of gene flow and recent volcanism on the island of Lanzarote.
Bloor, P. & Kemp, S.J. & Brown, R.P. (2008) -
The phylogeography of the lacertid lizard Gallotia atlantica from the small volcanic island of Lanzarote (Canary Islands) was analysed based on 1075 bp of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence (partial cytochrome b and ND2) for 157 individuals from 27 sites (including three sites from neighbouring islets). Levels of sequence divergence were generally low, with the most distant haplotypes separated by only 14 mutational steps. MtDNA divergence appears to coincide with formation of the middle Pleistocene lowland that united formerly separate ancient islands to form the current island of Lanzarote, allowing rejection of a two-island model of phylogeographical structure. There was evidence of large-scale population expansion after island unification, consistent with the colonization of new areas. A nested clade phylogeographical analysis (NCPA) revealed significant phylogeographical structuring. Two-step and higher-level clades each had disjunct distributions, being found to the east and west of a common area with a north-south orientation that extends between coasts in the centre-east of the island (El Jable). Other clades were almost entirely restricted to the El Jable region alone. Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo analyses were used to separate ongoing gene flow from historical associations. These supported the NCPA by indicating recent (75 000-150 000 years ago) east-west vicariance across the El Jable region. Lava flows covered El Jable and other parts of the central lowland at this time and likely led to population extinctions and temporary dispersal barriers, although present-day evidence suggests some populations would have survived in small refugia. Expansion of the latter appears to explain the presence of a clade located between the eastern and western components of the disjunct clades. Direct relationships between mtDNA lineages and morphology were not found, although one of two morphological forms on the island has a disjunct distribution that is broadly concordant with east-west components of the phylogeographical pattern. This work demonstrates how recent volcanic activity can cause population fragmentation and thus shape genetic diversity on microgeographical scales.
Bloor, P. & Rodríguez, V. & Terrasa, B. & Brown, R.P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2011) -
Fifteen microsatellite loci are described for the lizard Podarcis lilfordi from the Balearic Islands. Loci were isolated from partial genomic libraries that had been enriched for AAAG and ACAG repeat sequence. All loci were highly polymorphic (six to 19 alleles) in a sample of 26 individuals from the island of Dragonera. Observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.46 to 0.92 and 0.78 to 0.95, respectively. These loci will be used to study the evolutionary history of different forms, the occurrence of cross-islet introductions, and the validity of subspecific designations in this species.
Blosat, B. (1997) -
Blumroeder, J. & Eccard, J.A. & Blaum, N. (2012) -
In this field experiment we investigate the impact of land use induced savanna degradation on movement behaviour of the spotted sand lizard (Pedioplanis l. lineoocellata) in the southern Kalahari. Foraging behaviour of lizards was tested in a factorial design (low vs. high prey availability) in degraded and non-degraded habitats. An interaction between habitat structure and prey availability affected movement behaviour. In degraded habitats with low prey availability and in non-degraded habitats with high prey availability the spotted sand lizard moved more like an active forager. In contrast, in degraded habitats with high prey availability and in non-degraded habitats with low prey availability lizards moved like sit-and-wait foragers. Interestingly, the behavioural flexibility of the spotted sand lizard seems to buffer extreme conditions and negative effects of land use impacts.
Blyth, E. (1853) -
Boag, D.A. (1973) -
Wall lizards occupied overlapping territories, the size of which seemed to vary directly with the dominance level of the individual. Average territories of both males and females encompassed about 25 square meters. The overlap in territories among males was about 8 percent, and among females, about 18 percent. When both sexes were considered, overlap was 100 percent. This spacing mechanism appeared to be effective in governing the number of resident males but less so in governing number of resident females. In each of three years, females outnumbered males by 3.5 to one, probably because, among non-resident individuals, males were forced to move about more than females in order to avoid resident males, and as a consequence were subjected to greater predation pressure. Of 47 lizards marked on the study area, 60 percent were resident; the remainder were apparently wandering in search of unoccupied habitat. The number of resident lizards increased over the 5-year period of study from 10 to 21 individuals. Over the same period the average snout-to-vent length of this population decreased from 70.7 mm to 68.2 mm among males and 63.2 mm to 57.3 mm among females, probably reflecting a younger age structure. Correlated with these changes in population size was an increase in predation pressure from feral cats as reflected in the incidence of caudal autotomy among lizards.
Bobrov, V.V. (1986) -
Bobrov, V.V. (1993) -
The spatial structure of a tropical lizard community living in the Cue Phuong National Park (Northern Vietnam) was studied in December 1988, September 1989, and April 1991. The community is made up of 15 species which belong to 5 families: Gekkonidae (3 species), Agamidae (3), Scincidae (7), Lacertidae (1), and Varanidae (1). Habitat partitioning and microhabitat utilization of the lizards were analyzed. The environment at Cue Phuong can be assigned to three major habitat types: tropical forest, grassland, and river banks. 15 kinds of microhabitats were distinguished. Cluster analysis revealed 4 groups of species: inhabitants of big high trees (2 species), `other arboreal` species (5), forest floor dwellers (7), and grassland inhabitants (1). The most abun- dant species at Cue Phuong is Sphenomorphus trilaeniatus, followed by Acanthosaura lepidogaster, which is the most abundant arboreal species. Many species are patchily distributed within the forest.
Bobrov, V.V. (2003) -
Cuc Phuong National Park is located about 100 km southwest of Hanoi within the tropical rain forest zone and occupies 22500 hectares. 24 species of lizards of 6 families known to occur in the Cuc Phuong are listed together with notes on their ecology. The presented material is based on our observations made in Cuc Phuong during some visits from 1988 to 1991. Two species in the list (Scincella reevesii and Tropidophorus hainanus) are recorded the first time in this site.
Бобров В.В. (2003) -
Bobrov, V.V. (2007) -
Bobrov, V.V. (2011) -
Data on lizards of three families (Dibamidae, Lacertidae, and Anguidae) of the Vietnamese fauna, deposited in the herpetological collection of the Zoological Museum of Moscow University, are given. The following data are presented for every sample: accession number, the location of capture, habitat, and collector. The places of capture are shown on a map of the country.
Бобров В.В. (2011) -
Представлены данные по экземплярам ящериц трех семейств - червеобразные ящерицы (Dibamidae), настоящие ящерицы (Lacertidae) и веретеницевые (Anguidae) фауны Вьетнама, хранящихся в герпетологической коллекции Зоологическому музею МГУ. По каждому экземпляру представлены следующие данные: инвентарный номер, дата и место поимки, местообитание (если есть), сборщик. Места поимок показаны на карте страны.
Bobrov, V.V. (2013) -
A new lacertid lizard, Takydromus madaensis sp. nov., from the Ma Da forest, the Dong Nai Province (Southern Vietnam) is described. This species has 4 pairs of chin shields; 3 loreals on each side; 3 pairs of supraoculars on each side; parietals separated by interparietal and occipital ones; an additional shield between the prefrontals; ventrals in six longitudinal rows; there are 17 lamellae beneath the fourth toe. A dichotomous key to four species of the genus Takydromus in Vietnam is provided.
Бобров В.В. (2013) -
Приводится описание нового вида долгохвостки - Takydromus madaensis sp. nov. из Южного Вьетнама (провинция Донгнай, лесной массив Мада). От остальных трех видов рода в фауне Вьетнама новый вид отличается следующей комбинацией признаков: имеет четыре пары нижнечелюстных щитков; три скуловых щитка с каждой стороны; теменные щитки отделены друг от друга межтеменным щитком и чешуйкой позади него; 6 рядов брюшных чешуй поперек середины туловища. Приводится определитель для видов рода Takydromus фауны Вьетнама.
Bobrov, V.V. (2018) -
Bobyn, M.L. & Darevsky, I.S. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & MacCulloch, R.D. & Upton, D.E. & Danielyan, F.D. & Murphy, R.W. (1996) -
Lacertca raddei and Lacerta nairensis have been recognized as two separate species based on morphology and behavior, and each has been implicated as a sexual parent of different parthenogenetic forms. However, recent mitochondrial DNA work failed to distinguish these two as separate species. We examined genetic diversity at 36 allozyme loci from six populations of L. nairensis and four populations of L. raddei. There were no fixed allelic differences between the two. Mean heterozygosity was slightly higher among populations of L. raddei than among populations of L. nairensis. A Distance Wagner phenogram showed that the northernmost population of L. raddei clustered with the L. nairensis populations; the other L. raddei populations clustered together. We suggest that L. raddei and L. nairensis may not be separate species, a finding which has important implications for determining the origins of some parthenogenetic Lacerta.
Bocage, J.V.B. du (1866) -
Bocage, J.V.B. du (1867) -
Bocage, J.V.B. du (1895) -
Böckl, W. & Zauner, J. (2014) -
From 10/05/2014 to 05/17/2014 we traveled some selected areas in the south of France together with two terrarium friends. We have already known the lizards that occur in this area from former trips to other countries in southern Europe. Thus, our interest was in the following landscapes, outstanding by their particular circumstances, such as substrate, vegetation, moisture and color. Of course we also wanted to observe and photograph the resident reptiles and amphibians and in particular the „king“ of the Provence – the Ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus lepidus).
Bodega, G. & Suarez, I. & Rubio, M. & Fernandez, B. (1990) -
The astroglial cells have been studied in the lizard spinal cord by means of metallic impregnations, immunohistochemical (glial fibrillary acidic protein) and ultrastructural methods. Three astroglial cell types have been immunohistochemically identified: ependymocytes, radial astrocytes and astrocytes. Transitional forms have also been observed. Scarce immunopositive ependymocytes were located in the dorsal and ventral regions of the ependyma. The radial astrocytic somata were located around the ependymal layer and their processes reached the subpial glia limitans. Typical astrocytes were the most abundant astroglial cell type; astrocytes located in the ventral horn showed a greater development than those of the dorsal horn. In the white matter, the astrocytes were large and their processes formed part of the subpial glia limitans; on some occasions, astrocytic cell bodies also formed part of this subpial limitans. Transitional elements between astrocytes and radial astrocytes were observed in both grey and white matter. The perivascular and subpial glia limitans were continuous and showed a strong immunoreactivity. The comparative analysis of our results in the lizard spinal cord with those in other vertebrate groups leads us to conclude that reptiles could represent the key group in the phylogenetic evolution of the astroglial cells in vertebrates.
Bodenheimer, F.S. (1935) -
Bodenheimer, F.S. (1944) -
Bodenschatz, H. (1957) -
Bodensteiner, B.L. & Gangloff, E.J. & Kouyoumdjian, L. & Munoz, M.M. & Aubret, F. (2021) -
In response to a warming climate, many montane species are shifting upslope to track the emergence of preferred temperatures. Characterizing patterns of variation in metabolic, physiological, and thermal traits along an elevational gradient, and the plastic potential of these traits, is necessary to understand current and future responses to abiotic constraints at high elevations, including limited oxygen availability. We performed a transplant experiment with the upslope-colonizing common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in which we measured nine aspects of thermal physiology and aerobic capacity in lizards from replicate low- (400 m above sea level [ASL]) and high-elevation (1700 m ASL) populations. We first measured traits at their elevation of origin and then transplanted half of each group to extreme high elevation (2900 m ASL; above the current elevational range limit of this species), where oxygen availability is reduced by ∼25% relative to sea level. After three weeks of acclimation, we again measured these traits in both the transplanted and control groups. The multivariate thermal-metabolic phenotypes of lizards originating from different elevations differed clearly when measured at the elevation of origin. For example, high-elevation lizards are more heat tolerant than low-elevation counterparts (countergradient variation). Yet, these phenotypes converged after exposure to reduced oxygen availability at extreme high elevation, suggesting limited plastic responses under this novel constraint. Our results suggest that high-elevation populations are well-suited to their oxygen environments, but that plasticity in the thermal-metabolic phenotype does not pre-adapt these populations to colonize more hypoxic environments at higher elevations.
Bodineau, T. & Villemereuil, P. de & Agostini, S. & Decencière, B. & Galliard, J.-F. le & Mylan, S. (2024) -
Phenological advances are a widespread response to global warming and can contribute to determine the climate vulnerability of organisms, particularly in ectothermic species, which are highly dependent on ambient temperatures to complete their life cycle. Yet, the relative contribution of breeding dates and temperature conditions during gestation on fitness of females and their offspring is poorly documented in reptiles. Here, we exposed females of the common lizard Zootoca vivipara to contrasting thermal scenarios (cold vs. hot treatment) during gestation and quantified effects of parturition dates and thermal treatment on life-history traits of females and their offspring for 1 year. Overall, our results suggest that parturition date has a greater impact than thermal conditions during gestation on life history strategies. In particular, we found positive effects of an earlier parturition date on juvenile survival, growth, and recruitment suggesting that environmental-dependent selection and/or differences in parental quality between early and late breeders underlie seasonal changes in offspring fitness. Yet, an earlier parturition date compromised the energetic condition of gravid females, which suggests the existence of a mother–offspring conflict regarding the optimization of parturition dates. While numerous studies focused on the direct effects of alterations in incubation temperatures on reptile life-history traits, our results highlight the importance of considering the role of breeding phenology in assessing the short- and long-term effects of thermal developmental plasticity.
Boere, A. & Haaren, R. van & Zweden, J. van (2001) -
Boettger, C.R. & Müller, L. (1914) -
Boettger, O. (1880) -
Boettger, O. (1881) -
Boettger, O. (1882) -
Boettger, O. (1883) -
Boettger, O. (1885) -
Boettger, O. (1886) -
Boettger, O. (1887) -
Boettger, O. (1888) -
Boettger, O. (1892) -
Boettger, O. (1893) -
Boettger, O. (1894) -
Boettger, O. (1899) -
Bogaerts, S. (1989) -
During a trip in the Algarve in the summer of 1987, a lot of amphibians and reptiles were seen. Of the amphibians Rona perezi and Bufo bufo spinosus were much more common than Pleuro- deles walt/ and Hyla meridiana/is. Mauremys caspica leprosa, E m ys orbicularis, T arentola mauritanica, Hemidactylus turcicus, Lacerta le- pida, Acamhodactylus erythrurus, Psammodro- mus algirus, Blanus cinereus, Chamaeleo cha- maeleon, Natrix maura were found alive. A dead Coluber hippocrepis and a skin of Elaphe sea/oris and Malpolon m onspessulanus were found. Short notes are given on the habitats of these ani- mals.
Bogaerts, S. (1998) -
I had the opportunity to gather information on the Tunisian herpetofauna during a one week visit to Tunisia in September 1995. Tarelllola mauritanica, Natrix maura. Malpolon mons- pessultmus. Chalcides ocellatus tiligugu. Rana salwrica , Bufo mauretanicus and Bl{{o l`iridis were all encountered in the surroun- dings of my hotel in Hammam-Sousse. I pri- marily saw reptiles in shops and at markets where they were offered as souvenirs either dried (and sometimes mounted) or preserved in alcohol. The dried animals were displayed in small glass cases or placed in a picture frame. Live animals were sold at the markets as well. Dried and framed lizards seen inclu- ded Mabu.va ••ittata, C. ocellatus tiligugu. Scincus scincus and Clwmaeleo chamaeleon salwrica. Dried snakes encountered were N. maura. Co/uber algims. Spalerosophis sp.. Malpolon monspes.mlcmus. Malpolon moilen- sis. P .mmmophis sclwkari. Macrol`ipera mcw- ritanica (and/or Macmvipera deserti), Cerastes cerastes. Cerastes ••ipera, Naja haje lwje and Eryx spec. There were more desert species offered in Gabes than in Sousse (for example S. scincus and M. moilensis). I saw Coluber hippocrepis in place of C. algims in Nabeul. The correlation between the species offered and the habitats present where the ani- mals were offered suggested that they were caught and processed locally. I occasionally saw a mounted li1ranus griseus or Uromastyx accmthinura in the Nabeul markets. The most commonly encountered reptile on the market was Clwmaeleo chamaeleon .mlwrica. offered both live and dried. Various reptiles were set on tourists. and then the tourists charged for the usc of the animals as a photo prop. Young Testudo graeca, seen in every market in every city visited, were clearly meant for tourists (according to the dealers these were the easiest to smuggle back to Europe). Relatively few animals were seen in their natural habitats. Rana salwrica and Mauremys leprosa were seen in Gabes. Rcma salwrica, M. /epro.m, Ophisops occidentalis. Psammodromus algi- l`liS en Acalltlwdactylus cf. boskianus were observed between Kairouan and Kesra (direc- tion Makthar). It is ironic that the legislation regarding kee- ping of reptiles has become so strict for terra- rium enthusiasts in Europe while no or inade- quate measures are taken to protect the ani- mals in their countries of origin. Our legisla- tive measures are then senseless.
Bogaerts, S. (2000) -
A female Lacerta bilineata from the Cevennes, France, showed strong aggresiv behaviour towards other specimen of this species (a male and a female). In March 1995 it mated with an other female. This `mating` followed the same pattem as in normal matings of this species.
Bogaerts, S. (2003) -
In 2001 and 2002 I visited the Drulon estate in the Cher Department, France. On this estate, extensive cattle farming, nature and art are tightly interwoven. Apart from many insects, such as the Staghorn Beetle, Lucanus cervus, and Praying Mantis, Mantis religiosa, at least five species of reptile and five amphibian species occur here: Podarcis muralis, Lacerta bilineata, Anguis fragilis, Natrix natrix, Vipera aspis, Triturus helveticus, Triturus cristatus, Bufo bufo, Rana dalmatina and Rana esculenta. The latter species also occurs in a blue colour mutation with some frequency. There is a good chance that additional species will be found here, but I only briefly visited the area twice during the summer months and missed out on the spring – an important time for amphibian inventories.
Bogaerts, S. & Pasmans, F. (2012) -
Bogaerts, S. & Pasmans, F. & Barosso, D.D. (2002) -
Bogdan, H.V. (2012) -
Bogdan, H.V. & Sas-Kovács, I. & Covaciumarov, S.-D. (2014) -
In the southern side of the Lipova Hills we found 11 amphibian species, 9 reptile species and 2 types of hybrid between amphibian species. The herpetofauna of the region contains lowland, hill and mountain related species. Also, in the area are present southern species in the vicinity of the northern limit of their distribution range, and related species in the mountainous areas, found at lower altitudes than usually. The mixture of mountain and lowland species is a consequence of the current aspect of the region, with wide valleys located between hill ridges, valleys that allow the advancement of these lowland species in the hill areas. The second aspect is a consequence of the history of the region. Currently the herpetofauna of the Lipova Hills is greatly advantaged by the relatively large forest covered areas.
Bogdanov, O.P. (1956) -
Bogdanova, G.O. (1974) -
Bogdanova, G.O. (1976) -
Bogin, Y. & Efrati, N. Por & Werner, Y.L. (1999) -
Under uniform laboratory conditions, wild-caught Lacerta laevis laevis Gray (Reptilia: Sauria) that had originated from a warmer environment appeared to live longer than those that had originated from a cooler environment (in both groups, males appeared to live longer than females). In this first discussion of potential factors of longevity in Lacertidae, this observation is considered in relation to literature data from two aspects: (a) direct temperature effects on physiological longevity of ectotherms, especially fish; (b) climatic effects on demography and age structure of lizard populations in the wild.
Bohle, D. (2004) -
Bohle, D. (2016) -
Im Rahmen eines Kreuzotter-Monitoring-Projektes wurden in Brandenburg gezielt phänologische Daten zur Kreuzotter (Vipera berus), aber auch zur Ringelnatter (Natrix natrix), Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis), Waldeidechse (Zootoca vivipara) und Blindschleiche (Anguis fragilis) gesammelt. Der Schwerpunkt lag vor allem auf der Ermittlung der Aktivitätszeiträume der einzelnen Arten. Im Laufe der 10 Untersuchungsjahre von 2006-2015 wurden insgesamt 220 Begehungen in den Monaten Oktober bis März durchgeführt. Um die Ergebnisse der verschiedenen Jahre besser vergleichen zu können, wurde aus dem Aktivitätsbeginn und dem Aktivitätsende der einzelnen Jahre der Median berechnet. Das Ergebnis zeigt, dass die Kreuzotter (Vipera berus) den mit Abstand längsten Aktivitätszeitraum mit einem Median von 256 Tagen hat. Es folgt die Waldeidechse mit 223Tagen und dahinter die Zauneidechse mit 277 Tagen. Die Ringelnatter verzeichnet dagegen nur noch 202,5 Tage und die Blindschleiche 188 Tage. Der Vergleich mit Literaturangaben aus Deutschland zeigt weitgehende Übereinstimmungen für die Ringelnatter, Zauneiclechse und Waldeidechse. Bei der Kreuzotter und Blindschleiche gibt es hingegen erhebliche Abweichungen. Speziell der ermittelte Wert für das Aktivitätsende der Kreuzotter liegt mit dem 14. November als Median deutlich später im Vergleich zu den Literaturangaben. Ausschlaggebend für lange Aktivitätszeiträume scheinen vor allem geschützte Winterquartiere möglichst nahe an mikroklimatisch begünstigten Sonnenplätzen zu sein.
Bohlmann, H. & Falkenberg, E. & Knüppel, U. & König, R. (1981) -
Böhm, F. (0000) -
Böhme, M.U. & Berendonk, T.U. & Schlegel, M. (2005) -
Twelve new microsatellite loci were isolated from the Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis viridis). Primers for 28 loci were designed and 18 of these loci amplified well for 10 individuals of four populations. Twelve of these loci were further characterized for a population in Hungary. The results document the suitability of these identified loci for the characterization of the genetic diversity of the endangered species L. viridis viridis.
Böhme, M.U. & Fritz, U. & Kotenko, T. & Džukić, G. & Ljubisavljević, K. & Tzankov, N. & Berendonk, T.U. (2006) -
It is well known that the current genetic pattern of many European species has been highly influenced by climatic changes during the Pleistocene. While there are many well known vertebrate examples, knowledge about squamate reptiles is sparse. To obtain more data, a range-wide sampling of Lacerta viridis was conducted and phylogenetic relations within the L. viridis complex were analysed using an mtDNA fragment encompassing part of cytochrome b, the adjacent tRNA genes and the noncoding control region. Most genetic divergence was found in the south of the distribution range. The Carpathian Basin and the regions north of the Carpathians and Alps are inhabited by the same mitochondrial lineage, corresponding to Lacerta viridis viridis. Three distinct lineages occurred in the south-eastern Balkans — corresponding to L. v. viridis, L. v. meridionalis, L. v. guentherpetersi— as well as a fourth lineage for which no subspecies name is available. This distribution pattern suggests a rapid range expansion of L. v. viridis after the Holocene warming, leading to a colonization of the northern part of the species range. An unexpected finding was that a highly distinct genetic lineage occurs along the western Balkan coast. Phylogenetic analyses (Bayesian, maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony) suggested that this west Balkan lineage could represent the sister taxon of Lacerta bilineata. Due to the morphological similarity of taxa within the L. viridis complex this cryptic taxon was previously assigned to L. v. viridis. The distribution pattern of several parapatric, in part highly, distinct genetic lineages suggested the existence of several refuges in close proximity on the southern Balkans. Within L. bilineata sensu stricto a generally similar pattern emerged, with a high genetic diversity on the Apennine peninsula, arguing for two distinct refuges there, and a low genetic diversity in the northern part of the range. Close to the south-eastern Alps, three distinct lineages (L. b. bilineata, L. v. viridis, west Balkan taxon) occurred within close proximity. We suggest that the west Balkan lineage represents an early offshoot of L. bilineata that was isolated during a previous Pleistocene glacial from the more western L. bilineata populations, which survived in refuges on the Apennine peninsula.
Böhme, M.U. & Fritzsch, G. & Tippmann, A. & Schlegel, M. & Berendonk, T.U. (2007) -
For the first time the complete mitochondrial genome was sequenced for a member of Lacertidae. Lacerta viridis viridis was sequenced in order to compare the phylogenetic relationships of this family to other reptilian lineages. Using the long-polymerase chain reaction (long PCR) we characterized a mitochondrial genome, 17,156 bp long showing a typical vertebrate pattern with 13 protein coding genes, 22 transfer RNAs (tRNA), two ribosomal RNAs (rRNA) and one major noncoding region. The noncoding region of L. v. viridis was characterized by a conspicuous 35 bp tandem repeat at its 5′ terminus. A phylogenetic study including all currently available squamate mitochondrial sequences demonstrates the position of Lacertidae within a monophyletic squamate group. We obtained a narrow relationship of Lacertidae to Scincidae, Iguanidae, Varanidae, Anguidae, and Cordylidae. Although, the internal relationships within this group yielded only a weak resolution and low bootstrap support, the revealed relationships were more congruent with morphological studies than with recent molecular analyses.
Böhme, M.U. & Moravec, J. (2011) -
In order to obtain genetic data for the conservation of populations of Czech Lacerta viridis (Laurenti, 1768) the genetic diversity of 12 microsatellite markers was assessed for five Bohemian and three Moravian populations. Comparison of the genetic variation and differentiation between the highly fragmented and isolated Bohemian populations and the Moravian populations connected to the continuous species range revealed a lower level of genetic variation in Bohemian populations. Presence of a genetic split between the Bohemian and Moravian populations indicates that these populations have been isloted from one another for long time and currently there is no gene flow between them. The genetic structures of the populations in both regions are significantly correlated with respective geographic distances and influenced by the low level of habitat connectivity between the populations. Basic implications for the conservation of L. viridis in the Czech Republic are suggested.
Böhme, M.U. & Schneeweiss, N. & Fritz, U. & Moravec, J. & Majláth, I. & Majláthová, V. & Berendonk, T.U. (2006) -
The range of Lacerta viridis viridis is the result of a rapid postglacial dispersal, followed by range-restriction events leading to the isolation of the present northern relict populations. Current conservation efforts focus on these endangered, northern isolates. An understanding of the genetic diversity of these populations is a prerequisite for any conservation measures. In order to provide such data we analysed mtDNA sequence variation in 57 L. v. viridis from the northernmost part of the subspecies range, including representatives of isolated relict populations in Brandenburg (Germany) and northern Bohemia (Czech Republic). We detected a positive correlation between genetic distances of mtDNA sequences and geographic distances, which corresponds well with the migration behaviour of L. v. viridis. Furthermore, our data reveal the importance of a comparative analysis for estimating the genetic diversity of an endangered taxon like Lacerta v. viridis.
Die Verbreitung von Lacerta viridis viridis ist das Ergebnis einer schnellen nacheiszeitlichen Ausbreitung mit nachfolgenden, die Verbreitung einschränkenden Geschehnissen, die zur Isolation der heutigen nördlichen Reliktpopulationen geführt haben. Die gegenwärtigen Schutzbestrebungen konzentrieren sich auf diese gefährdeten nördlichen isolierten Populationen. Das Verständnis der genetischen Diversität dieser Populationen ist eine Voraussetzung für Schutzmaßnahmen in jeder Form. Um derartige Daten zur Verfügung zu stellen, analysierten wir die mtDNS-Sequenzvariation von 57 L. v. viridis aus dem nördlichsten Bereich der Verbreitung dieser Unterart, einschließlich Vertretern von isolierten Reliktpopulationen in Brandenburg und Nord-Böhmen (Tschechische Republik). Wir stießen dabei auf eine positive Relation zwischen den genetischen Distanzen der mtDNS-Sequenzen und den geographischen Entfernungen, die gut mit dem Migrationsverhalten von L. v. viridis übereinstimmt. Weiterhin zeigen unsere Daten die große Bedeutung einer vergleichenden Analyse für das Abschätzen der genetischen Diversität von gefährdeten Taxa wie L. v. viridis auf.
Böhme, M.U. & Schneeweiss, N. & Fritz, U. & Schlegel, M. & Berendonk, T.U. (2007) -
Edge and central populations can show great differences regarding their genetic variation and thereby also in their probability of extinction. This fact might be of great importance for the conservation strategies of endangered species. In this study we examine the level of microsatellite variability within three threatened edge populations of the green lizard subspecies Lacerta viridis viridis (Laur.) in Brandenburg (Germany) and compare the observed variation to other edge and central populations within the northern species range. We demonstrate that the northernmost edge populations contain less genetic variation in comparison to the central population. However, there were no observable significant differences to the other edge population included in this study. Surprisingly, we observed a high genetic differentiation in a small geographical range between the three endangered populations in Brandenburg, which can be explained by processes like fragmentation, isolation, genetic drift and small individual numbers within these populations. We also detected unique genetic variants (alleles), which only occurred in these populations, despite a low overall genetic variation. This study demonstrates the potential of fast evolving markers assessing the genetic status of endangered populations with a high resolution. It also illustrates the need for a comparative analysis of different regions within the species range, achieving a more exact interpretation of the genetic variation in endangered populations. This will aid future management decisions in the conservation of genetic diversity in threatened species.
Böhme, W. (1971) -
Böhme, W. (1973) -
Zwei Eidechsenarten, zu bisher nicht aus der Türkei bekannten Gattungen gehörig, werden erstmals für die türkische Herpetofauna nachgewiesen: Phyllodactylus elisae und Acanthodactylus boskianus. Einige Aspekte ihrer Verbreitung, Taxonomie und Ökologie werden kurz besprochen.
Böhme, W. (1974) -
Böhme, W. (1978) -
Kühnelt`s principle of regional stenoecy and its bearing on the subspecies problem: a theoretical approach 1. The subspecies concept as defined by Mayr (1975) and generally accepted at the present time is arbitrary, subjective and lacking a precise theoretical basis. 2. This concept may be improved if the subspecies is recognized as a phenomenon not only in space but also in time. 3. The term subspecies must be restricted only to those situations in which intra-specific evolutionary divergence can potentially give rise to new species. 4. Characters expressing these intra-specific divergences should be adaptive characters necessary for the evolutionary process. This is true for physiological and ecological characters rather than for morphological ones. 5. Theriological and herpetological examples demonstrate that Kühnelt`s principle of regional stenoecy is such an ecological criterion. This principle srates that individuals of a species can occupy a greater variety of habitats in the center of the species range (euryoec) than towards the periphery (stenoec). The discussed examples suggest however that this principle is a constant phenomenon not at the species level, but at a lower level. 6. Therefore it is proposed to bring the category subspecies in coincidence with the really existant level of Kühnelt`s principle, thus making the category less arbitrary. 7. The application of this proposed concept is illustrated by several examples. Those species which are comprised of demonstrably divergent subspecific populations should be named “polycentric” rather than “polytypic”. 8. The proposed concept is apparently applicable only to widely distributed mainland forms and not to insular forms. When discussing montane populations, insular and ecotypic forms can however be better distinguished. 9. The interesting parallelism of adaptation and compensation to similar climatic conditions of both poikilotherm and homoiotherm species is pointed out. It is suggested that peripheral isolares are most often relictual and in process of extinction because of environmental change. Therefore it is nor generally possible to interpret every isolate as a “beginning species”. The raxonomic applicability of the theoretical approach presented here must be tested by ecological and experimental research.
Böhme, W. (1981) -
Böhme, W. (1982) -
Within a species one can often distinguish between groupings which correspond to objectively different levels of differentiation. The level of these differentiations may vary between semlspecies and local population rank. On the other hand the zoological system supplies us with only one category for the nomenclatoral expression of infraspeclflc relative relationship. Several examples taken from the European herpetofauna are used to demonstrate the absurdity of infraspeclflc concepts currently accepted for many European, especially Mediterranean reptile species. An alternative to this unsatisfactory situation would be the concept of `megasubspecies` as developed by American ornithologists. This concept would allow to express Infraspeclflc relationship also in herpetology better than before, but nevertheless in harmony with the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature.
Böhme, W. (1984) -
Böhme, W. (1986) -
Böhme, W. (1989) -
Böhme, W. (1992) -
Böhme, W. (1993) -
Since the work of PETERS (1962) Lacerta brandtii DE FILIPPI, 1863 was regarded as the closest rela- tive of the L. parva I L. fraasii group within the collective genus Lacerta (e. g. ARNOLD 1989; BISCHOFF 1991). The crown-shaped microornamentation on the hemipenial epidermis of L. brandtii seems to exclude this hypothesis and does, however, not offer an alternative resolution, due to its obvious multiple origin. Candi- dates of close relationship to L. brandtii are the Rock Lizards or the L. laevis / L. danfordi group. Other methodological approaches are required to resolve this question.
Böhme, W. (1994) -
Böhme, W. (1995) -
Böhme, W. (1997) -
BÖhme, W. (1997) -
Böhme, W. (1998) -
Böhme, W. (2001) -
Böhme, W. (2004) -
As aconsequence of the general popularity of classic Greek and Roman culture in the 19th century Germany, a renewed interest arose also for the Mediterranean fauna. Along with the Darwinian influence on evolutionary biology in the second half of the 19th century, Mediterranean lizards, particularly lacertids, became favoured study objects. The lizards served as model organisms for the earliest steps of speciation (formation of `varieties` or `races`) and shed light on adaptations to extreme, in particular insular, environments.Together with the contemporarily emerging concept of the geographical subspecies, the number of intraspecific taxa described and names erected grwe considerably. I review the relevant work of the most important zoologists from the German-speaking zone who took part in the exploration of Mediterranean amphibians and reptiles. Many of them had a much wider scope, both systematically and geographically, but nevertheless contributed significantly to Mediterranean herpetology. I lay special emphasis to the study of Balearic Islands lacertids through German-speaking authors.
Böhme, W. (2006) -
Böhme, W. (2010) -
In the herpetological collection of ZFMK 528 scientific species group names are represented by type materi- al. Of these, 304 names are documented by primary type specimens (onomatophores) while for 224 further names sec- ondary type specimens (typoids) are available, ranging chronologically from 1801 to 2010. The list is a shortened pred- ecessor of a comprehensive type catalogue in progress. It lists name bearing types with their catalogue numbers includ- ing information on further type series members also in other institutions, while secondary types are listed only by pres- ence, both in ZFMK and other collections including holotype repositories. Geographic origin and currently valid names are also provided.
Böhme, W. (2016) -
Het Duitse Bonn ligt circa 100 kilometer ten oosten van Maastricht. Ondanks haar verleden als hoofdstad van de Bondsrepubliek Duitsland, is het een relatief kleine stad, gelegen aan de noordrand van het Midden-Rijndal. De Rijn wordt hier nog aan weerskanten gefl ankeerd door heuvels. Na Bonn stroomt hij de laagvlakte bij Keulen binnen, om van daaruit als Beneden-Rijn verder te stromen naar Nederland. Door deze geografi sche situatie is Bonn de noordgrens in de verspreiding van veel dier- en plantensoorten, die na de laatste ijstijd Centraal-Europa via de dalen van Rhône en Rijn hebben geherkoloniseerd. Een bekend herpetologisch voorbeeld hiervan is de muurhagedis (Podarcis muralis).
Böhme, W. (2024) -
Two decades ago, a decision of the International Commission of Zoological Nomenclature was made to set aside the types of the southwest African sand lizard Pedioplanis undata (A. Smith, 1838) and to designate a neotype to maintain nomenclatural stability. Both the application and the subsequent decision were published in a short way in the Bulletin of Zoological Nomenclature without any pictorial documentation. To rectify this omission, and to make the decision of that time comprehensible, the relevant figures of the specimens involved are presented here.
Böhme, W. & Bings, W. (1975) -
A journey to Hierro, Canary Islands, made by W. BINGS had the intention to search for the lizard Lacerta s. simonyi, which already was believed tobe extinct. 1. Informations by the natives on this animal are extensively reproduced and thus secured. 2. The finding of an about two years old skeleton demonstrates the survival of the lizard until today. 3. The capture of a living couple is reported, which unfortunately could not be brought to Germany. 4. Some factors seemingly important for the survival of the lizard also in future are discussed; especially the following key-words: Interspecific competition, commen- salism with seabirds (coprophagy), predators (esp. Tangier raven) and factors caused by human influcnce (e. g. decimation of seabirds, tourism). 5. The urgent necessity for ecological investigations in the field as well as in captivity is pointed out. An appeal for protecting this unique and still poorly known reptile is formulated.
Böhme, W. & Bings, W. (1977) -
Our former paper (BÖHME & BINGS 1975) on the status of Lacerta s. simonyi and the paper by KLEMMER (1976) on the Canarian herpetofauna make the following addi- tional points necessary: 1. The current existence of L. s. simonyi can be documented for the first time by a photograph of a living specimen. 2. This extremely endangered lizard has been protected by the Spanish Natural Protection .Institution (ICONA), and will be listed in the Red Data Book by the IUCN. 3. Specimens from the Salmor rocks and from Hierro are identical in colour pattern and markings. .4. The temporal scalation has been shown to be variable, thus it is useless for distinguishing L. s. simonyi and stehlini. 5. As in the other Canarian lacertids stehlini also shows a tendency towards melanism. 6. L. s. stehlini reaches a maximum total length of 800 mm, whereas L. s. simonyi grows remarkably larger. Male specimens from up to one meter can occur.
Böhme, W. & Bischoff, W. (1976) -
1. The mating-bite of the Canarian Lacerta-species L. atlantica, L. galloti and L. simonyi carried out in the neck region represents no function of ehe different size between ehe sexes. lt is a character distinguishing these species from most other lacertids, especially from L. lepida. 2. The different types of mating-bite are intraspecifically constant and atelic characters, thus of taxonomic value. They are suitable for defining bundles of closely related species. 3. They cannot be recorded only by observing living animals, but also be concluded from bive scars in preserved females. 4. Preserved material shows that the species incertae sedis L. princeps and L. jayakari likely mate by means of neck-bite. 5. Phylogenetically ehe neck-bite is considered to be the primitive, the flank-bite ehe derived condicion. 6. The occurence of neck-bite in Mesalina shows, that the derived f!ank-bite must have evolved independently several times, thus representing no synapomorphy for the whole family. 7. The character mating-bite is not yet able to support generic diagnoses (Gallotia sensu ARNOLD 1973), as in other genera (Psammodromus) both types occur. Either one doubts, from this point of view, the monophyly of the latter, or one could also advocate a genus Timon containing besides L. lepida and the Canarian species also L. princeps and L. jayakari. Within this disjunct group with primitive mating-bite pattern, then, only L. lepida would have passed through a progressive development, also in respect of its maving behaviour. 8. To solve this dilemma, further investigations of lacertid mating behaviour, espe- cially courtship, will be necessary. They must be extended also to other lizard families. For this purpose the aid of terrarists is requested.
Böhme, W. & Bischoff, W. (1984) -
Böhme, W. & Bischoff, W. (1991) -
Böhme, W. & Bischoff, W. & Nettmann, H.-K. & Rykena, S. & Freundlich, J. (1981) -
Bericht über einen Knochenfund auf Hierro, Kanarische Inseln, der einem frühmittelalterlichen Abfallplatz der Ureinwohner entstammt. Bemerkenswert sind zahlreiche Eidechsenknochen, unter denen sich auch Reste der heute fast ausgestorbenen Gallotia simonyi befinden, und die die einst weitere Verbreitung dieser Art auf der Insel belegen. Dies ging bisher nur aus mittelalterlicher Berichten hervor.
Böhme, W. & Budak, A. (1977) -
1. Reinvestigation of the syntypes of Lacerta rudis BEDRIAGA 1886 (=nomen novum pro Lacerta depressa CAMERANO 1878, cf. BuDAK & BöHME 1977) and the comparison with a topotypical series show, that only one form is involved. As lectotype for the species, thus for the nominate form, too, the cf` specimen MIZS (Torino) 2737:1 is designated. 2. The populations of NE-Anatolia and Transcaucasia, so far misinterpreted as being the nominate form, represent a distinct form and are described as Lacerta rudis bischoffi n. subsp.
Böhme, W. & Caputo, V. & Corti, C. & Garavelli, P. (1994) -
Die vorliegende Arbeit fasst neue Erkenntnisse zum Vorkommen der Mauereidechse im südlichen und östlichen Teil der Apennin-Halbinsel zusammen. Im Süden ist die Mauereidechse weiter verbreitet als bisher angenommen, jedoch auf Regionen über 700m beschränkt. Entlang der Adriaküste ist die Verbreitung lückenhaft. Als neue Fundorte werden genannt: Region Marche: Monte Conero, Porto d+Ascoli, San Benedetto del Tronto, Ascoli Piceno. Region Molise: nur im Apennin Region Apulia: nur Vorbergzone und Gargano; Foresta Umbra, Bosco Quarto, Monte S. Angelo.
Böhme, W. & Corti, C. (1993) -
Böhme, W. & Corti, C. (2023) -
Böhme, W. & Eisentraut, M. (1981) -
Es wird über einen 1930 angesetzten Versuch berichtet, bei dem auf einem bis dahin eidechsenfreien Felseiland (Dado Grande bei Ibiza, Pityusen) Männchen einer melanistischen und Weibchen einer grünen Inselpopulation von Podarcis pityusensis ausgesetzt wurden. Die Untersuchung von sechs fünf Jahre später gefangenen Tieren ergibt, dass die Vermischung zu erhöhter Variabilität und gesteigertem Größenwuchs geführt hat. Eine erneute Kontrolle dieses noch vorläufigen Ergebnisses wird angeregt.
Böhme, W. & El Din, S.B. (2006) -
Böhme, W. & Esser, S. (2015) -
Böhme, W. & Fischer, E. & Hinkel, H. (2023) -
Böhme, W. & Heath, J. (2018) -
Some amphibians and reptiles from southern Mali and southwestern Burkina Faso have been deposited in the Zoologisches Forschungsmuseum Alexander Koenig (ZFMK) since the year 2000. Supplemented by some photographic voucher material they contain several remarkable, in some cases even new records for the two respective countries. Malian specimens were collected mainly in the region between Douentza and Bandiagara in the south-central part of the country, while those from Burkina Faso are from the Bobo Dioulasso area in the southwestern part of the country. Three amphibian species are new for Mali’s faunal list (Leptopelis bufonides, Ptychadena trinodis, Pyxicephalus sp. as the first represen¬tative of its genus). Two specimens of a small-sized Agama species cannot yet be assigned to a described species with certainty but are in any case of zoogeographical interest. A specimen of Chamaeleo gracilis documents the second record of this species for Burkina Faso, the first one in the western part of the country. The slender blind snake Leptotyphlops albiventer is recorded for the first time for this country.
Böhme, W. & Heulin, B. & Bischoff, W. (1999) -
Böhme, W. & Hinkel, H. & Hinkel, H. (2023) -
Böhme, W. & Hutterer, R. & Bings, W. (1985) -
Vocalizations of the Iberian lacertids Psammodromus algirus and P. hispanicus as well as of the Canarian endemic Gallotia atlantica, G. galloti galloti, g. eisentrauti, G. caesaris, g. gomerae, g. palmae and G. stehlini were analyzed sonagraphically. The structure of the calls resembles those known from the families Pygopodidae (Lialis, Delma) and Iguanidae (Anolis) rather than those of Gekkonidae. The vocal repertoire of the lacertids is rather simple; it consists of clicks and various combinations of tonal and noisy components. Duration and frequency range of the sounds are variable; at least frequency range seems to vary with individual size, body temperature and the level of excitement. Most lizards vocalized when handled, but vocalization was also heard in free-ranging animals kept in cages and observed in the field. Sounds are uttered by inferior individuals defending a hide but also by dominant animals pursuing a rival. Field observations indicate that vocal activity is most intensive after sunset and may last until midnight. It is argued that vocalization in the highly territorial lizards of genus Gallotia may help regulate the high population densities, especially in the dark when optical signals do not work. The subtropical climate and the heat-gathering lava of the Canary islands make a nocturnal activity possible. The systematic significance of vocalization in Gallotia is discussed. Vocalization may be a synapomorphic character defining the genus Gallotia, but it is also present in Psammodromus and has been mentioned for Podarcis, Lacerta and Ichnotropis. From this, a multiple evolution can also not be excluded. Therefore, the common derived karyotype of the Gallotia species is the only established synapomorphic character justifying a separate generic but not at all familial rank for the Canary lizards.
Böhme, W. & Köhler, J. (2005) -
We here reply to the arguments put forward by ARNOLD (2000) and LANZA & BOSCHERIN (2000) concerning the gender of the genus Podarcis. ARNOLD`S argument that a change of endings ot adjective flectible species names threatens stability is rejected by clearly following the articles of the current edition of the Code (ICZN 1999). We finally conclude that the gender of Podarcis must be masculine for the following reasons: (1) WAGLER (1830) did not determine the gender by combination with any species name nor by statement, (2) the name Podarcis is of common variable gender, (3) the Principle of First Reviser does not apply to determination of gender of names, (4) the Code clearly states that a name of common variable gender is to be treated as masculine.
Böhme, W. & Lymberakis, P. (2009) -
Böhme, W. & Lymberakis, P. & Ajtic, R. & Haxhiu, I. & Crnobrnja Isailovic, J. & Sindaco, R. (2009) -
Böhme, W. & Lymberakis, P. & Ajtic, R. & Tok, V. & Ugurtas, I.H. & Sevinc, M. & Crochet, P. & Haxhiu, I. & Krecsák, I. & Strerijovski, B. & Crnobrnja Isailovic, J. & Podloucky, R. & Cogalniceanu, D. & (2009) -
Böhme, W. & Meinig, H. & Rödel, M.-O. (1996) -
Böhme, W. & Miras, J.A.M. & Joger, U. & Slimani, T. & El Mouden, H. & Geniez, P. & Nouir, M.S. (2006) -
Böhme, W. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Cheylan, M. & Nettmann, H.K. & Krecsák, L. & Sterijkovski, B. & Schmidt, B. & Lymerakis, P. & Podloucky, R. & Sindaco, R. & Avci, A. (2009) -
Böhme, W. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Cheylan, M. & Nettmann, H.K. & Sterijkovski, B. & Schmidt, B. (2006) -
Böhme, W. & Rödder, D. (2006) -
Böhme, W. & Rödel, M. & Brede, C. & Wagner, P. (2011) -
During several herpetological surveys in the forested southeast of the Republic of Guinea (Guinée Forestière) we recorded 64 species of reptiles (two chelonian, 16 lizard and 45 snake species as well as one crocodile species. They are presented in a commented list with documentation of the respective voucher material and with taxonomic and/or ecological information. Our record of the softshell turtle Trionyx triunguis is the second one for Guinea and the first for Guinée Forestière, the forest-dwelling gecko Cnemaspis occidentalis and the lacertid lizard Holaspis guentheri are likewise the respective second Guinean record of these species. The Forest Nile Monitor Varanus ornatus is documented for the first time in Guinea. The ground boa Calabaria reinhardtii is again the second country record but the only voucher specimen available for study. Moreover, we present a country-wide checklist of the reptiles of the Republic of Guinea combining literature records with our own material. It documents the occurrence of 128 reptilian species (seven chelonian, 30 lizard, 88 snake and three crocodile species). Remarkable are photographic records of a probably new, undescribed gecko species of the genus Hemidactylus. The skink Trachylepis keroanensis, formerly a synonym of T. perroteti, proved to be a distinct species belonging to the T. buettneri/sudanensis group. Finally, we provide a list of fishes found in Ziama Forest partly recovered from the stomachs of natricid snakes.
Böhme, W. & Schneider, B. (1987) -
A recent herpetological collection in Cameroon yielded some 28 anuran, 16 lizard and 10 snake species. The species are listed and commented on under faunistical, taxonomical, ecological and zoogeographical aspects. Notes and corrections as to 7 other species listed in previous surveys are included. Specimens of Agama sankaranica, Mabuya buettneri, Panaspis aloysiisabaudiae and Lycophidion irroratum are first records from Came- roon. Noteworthy species are also Bufo villiersi, Adolfus africanus and Prosymna ambi- gua. The two last named are first records from the Adamaoua highlands, as are Holaspis guentheri, Hylarana albolabhs and Cardioglossa gratiosa. The Adamaoua population of C. gratiosa is described as a new subspecies C. g. peternageli.
Böhme, W. & Szczerbak, N. N. (1991) -
By the PAAG electrophoretic spectra of Coomassi-stained 61-73 bands from 4 “tissues” (heart, skeletal muscle, kidney, liver proteins) for each of 17 specimens representing at least 3 or 4 species, (Eremias vermiculata Blanf., E. przewalskii Str., E. sp. and E. multiocellata Gunther) were compared.Most of the specimens were collected in Mongolia. Their tree, based on several measures of genetic distances, showed the order of the species listed above, with E. sp., the closest to the point of divergency, and situated between E. przewalskii and the specimen of E. multiocellata from several localities and biotypes. The genetic similarity of the biotypes of the last species is discussed in regard with other data on the body size and proportion, pholidosis, coloration.
By the PAAG electrophoretic spectra of Coomassi-stained 61-73 bands from 4 “tissues” (heart, skeletal muscle, kidney, liver proteins) for each of 17 specimens representing at least 3 or 4 species, (Eremias vermiculite Blanf., E. przewalskii Str., E. sp. and E. multiocellata Gunther) were compared. Most of the specimens were collected in Mongolia. Their tree, based on several measures of genetic distances, showed the order of the species listed above, with E. sp., the closest to the point of divergency, and situated between E. przewalskii and the specimen of E. multiocellata from several localities and biotypes. The genetic similarity of the biotypes of the last species is discussed in regard with other data on the body size and proportion, pholidosis, coloration.
Böhme, W. & Weitschat, W. (1998) -
Böhme, W. & Weitschat, W. (2002) -
A comparative analysis of seven newly found pieces of Baltic amber containing specimens of lacertid lizards or parts of them results in the distinction of three different species. Despite some important differences even in the subdigital structures, all are assigned to the genus Succinilacerta BOEHME & WEITSCHAT, 1998. The diversity and adaptive radiation of Eocene lacertid lizards is stressed particularly when contemporaneous forms preserved only after skeletal remains (e. g., Plesiolacerta lydekkeri) are also taken into account.
Böhme, W. & Wiedl, H.-J. (1993) -
Böhme, W. & Wilms, T. & Nickel, H. & Merz, M. (2001) -
Böhme, W. & Zammit-Maempel, G. (1982) -
Lacerta siculimelitensis sp. n., an extinct giant lizard species is described from the Late Pleistocene of Malta. It is shown that this species lived contemporaneously also on Sicily. The zoogeographical aspects of the fossil form as compared with recent members of the genus are discussed.
Bohórquez Alonso, M.L. (2014) -
Bohórquez-Alonso, M. & Font, E. & Molina-Borja, M. (2011) -
In lizards, site selection is related to the acquisition of resources such as refuges, mates or prey, but also to the exploitation of sites suitable for thermoregulation. The latter process may be affected by lizard posture and body axis orientation in relation to the sun as a way to optimize heat exchange throughout the day. Specific postures and body orientations could also contribute to more efficient signal transmission in social contexts. In this paper we analyze activity and body axis orientation of adult males and females of the lacertid Gallotia galloti in two localities of Tenerife with different structural habitats. We performed transects at both sampling localities in the morning and at midday during May and June of three years (2002-2004). The numbers of lizards detected per unit time during transects at both localities were similar; however, significantly more males than females were detected. Moreover, more lizards were found oriented parallel or perpendicular to the sun than in alternative (oblique) orientations. Heating rates were not different for copper lizard models oriented parallel or perpendicular to the sun, neither in the morning nor at midday, and there was no significant relationship between air temperature and lizard body orientation. This suggests that lizard body orientation is not constrained by thermoregulatory requirements. We discuss alternative hypotheses and conclude that body axis orientation in G. galloti lizards may reflect a compromise between the conflicting demands imposed by thermoregulation and social communication.
Bohórquez-Alonso, M.L. & Mesa-Avila, G. & Suárez-Rancel, M. & Font, E. & Molina-Borja, M. (2018) -
In many species, male coloration signals aggressiveness and/or fighting ability. Males of the Tenerife lizard (Gallotia galloti) have conspicuous ultraviolet (UV)-blue cheek and lateral color patches that are brighter in the breeding season and larger than those of females. We analyzed experimentally the effect of morphological and behavioral traits, including spectral variables from UV-reflecting color patches, on the outcome of staged dyadic contests between males of two subspecies of G. galloti. We performed two experiments: (1) using pairs of unmanipulated males and (2) reducing the UV reflectance of the UV-blue patches of one of the contestants with sunscreen lotion. Results from experiment 1 showed no significant difference between subspecies in the effect of any variable on contest outcome. Overall, winners had larger body mass, head width, and fore-limb length and showed a higher rate of aggressive behavior patterns than losers, whereas losers showed a higher rate of “tail shake,” which is considered a submissive behavior. Winners also had lateral UV-blue patches with higher (more blue-biased) hue than losers, but no other spectral trait had a significant effect on contest outcome. Results from experiment 2 showed that reducing patch reflectance in the UV range had no effect in one subspecies but significantly increased fighting success in the other. The probability of winning was positively associated with the frequency of bites (irrespective of whether individuals had manipulated patches or not). Results from both experiments suggest that while multiple traits (morphometric, coloration, and behavioral) may influence the outcome of male contests in G. galloti, behavioral traits take prevalence over morphological, including coloration, traits.
Bohórquez-Alonso, M.L. & Molina Borja, M. (2003) -
We present preliminary results on the application of the observational ethological method to the study of activity of lizards from Tenerife in two habitats of the island with different ecological characteristics: Malpaís de Güimar (SE of the island) and the periphery of Teide National Park (centre of the island), and in two daily times. We counted the number of animals of each sex and category while walking in transects with hazardously chosen directions. The behaviour pattern performed by each observed animal was also scored. The results show that there were always more active males than females or juveniles in both zones. The number of total active animals per unit area and time was inversely related to the environmental temperature in Teide National Park. In Malpaís de Güimar the higher number of animals was recorded in intermediate temperatures between maximum and minimum ones. The number of observed animals was greater at midday than in the morning in Malpaís de Güimar, but the contrary occurred at Teide N.P. The results support the finding in other species of a higher activity level in males and also suggest a differential activity pattern in relation to environmental temperature in both zones studied.
Bohórquez-Alonso, M.L. & Molina-Borja, M. (2014) -
Body coloration is sexually dimorphic in many vertebrate species, including lizards, in which males are often more conspicuous than females. A detailed analysis of the relative size of coloured patches and their reflectance, including the ultraviolet (UV) range, has rarely been performed. In the present work we quantified sexual dimorphism in body traits and surface area of all lateral patches from adult females and males of two subspecies of Gallotia galloti (G. g. galloti and G. g. eisentrauti). We also analysed the magnitude of sexual dichromatism in the UV-visible reflectance of such patches and the changes in patch size and brightness during the reproductive season (April–July). Males had significantly larger patch areas (relative to their snout-vent length) and higher brightness (mainly in the UV-blue range) than did females in both subspecies. The comparison of relative patch areas among months did not reach statistical significance. However, patch brightness significantly changed during the breeding season: that of the UV-blue (300–495 nm) range from lizards of the two subspecies was significantly larger in June than in April, while brightness in the 495–700 nm range in G. g. galloti was larger in May, June, and July than in April. A different pattern of dichromatism was also detected in the two populations, with G. g. eisentrauti being more sexually dichromatic than G. g. galloti. We discuss the results in terms of possible evolutionary causes for the sexual dichromatism related to different ecological characteristics of the habitats where each subspecies live.
Bohórquez-Alonso, M.L. & Molina-Borja, M. (2018) -
Boie, F. (1841) -
Boiko, M.P. & Vikyrchak, O.K. & Holinei, H.M. & Shevchyk, L.O. (2019) -
Reliable information about the species composition of the fauna, way of life, abundance, distribution, and breeding features is not only the initial data for in-depth zoological, evolutionary and ecological research, but also the source for nature conservation activity based on the analysis of the state of wildlife resources. The European green lizard (Lacerta viridis Laurenti, 1768; Reptilia, Squamata) is one of the most vulnerable species of reptiles in the domestic herpetofauna. Therefore, it is the object of ecological research aimed at studying population structure, biotopic distribution, including within the protected natural areas and areas that are undergoing significant anthropogenic transformation. The work is based on field studies conducted in April - August 2018 and data from the regular phenological observations of the Dniester Canyon National Nature Park. The current status of the European green lizard population (Lacerta viridis Laurenti, 1768) within the territory of Dniester Canyon National Nature Park has been investigated. The abundance and spatial distribution of the species populations in different biotopes have been studiedon the basis of long-term phenological observations according to the program of the Chronicle of Nature of the National Nature Park and the authors’ research. The data of the species occurrence on the territory of the Park for the last six years is given. The abundance of the European green lizard populations under different biotopical conditions and the main factors influencing the studied parameters have been analyzed.
Boissinot, A. & Grillet, F. & Morin-Pinaud, S. & Besnard, A. & Lourdais, O. (2013) -
Boix, D. & Franch, M. & Mascort, R. (2004) -
Bok, B. (2008) -
Böker, T. (1987) -
Böker, T. (1990) -
The population exhibits a high density and is rather stable. Numerous suitable areas are occu- pied by L. viridis within the study site. The biggest threat for this population is the increase of bushy vegetation and closure of the Eastern and western L. viridis are differently adapted to temperature. The western population begins with its daily activity phase at a temperature which is at least 7 °C lower, when compared to the eastern population. Consequentially its yearly activity phase starts between two and three weeks (in very mild winters up to six weeks) earlier.
Böker, T. (1992) -
Böker,T. & Schausten, H. & Sound, P. & Twelbeck (1995) -
Bol, S. (1992) -
REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS ON SAMOS During a two week holiday on Samos, the follo- wing species were observed: Rona ridibunda, Agamastellio, Ophisaurusapodus, Ophisopsele- gans, Lacerta trilineata cariensis, Mabuya aura- to, L. anatolicaaegaea, Natrixnatrixpersa, Colu- ber caspius, C. najadum, Eirenis modestus, Eryx jaculus, Mauremyscaspica. Some of these species were not known to occur on the island. For each of the species some notes are given (if possible) about environment, status and behaviour.
Bolanos, A. & Gonez, T. & Badia, P. & Lorenzo, A. (1986) -
Bole, J. & Brelih, S. & Zei, M. (1961) -
Bolkay, S. (1909) -
Bolkay, S.J. (1919) -
Bolkay, S.J. (1920) -
Bolkay, S.J. (1921) -
Bolkay, S.J. (1923) -
Bolkay, S.J. (1924) -
Bolkay S.J. (1924) -
Bolkay, S.J. (1925) -
Bolkay, S.J. (1927) -
Bolkay, S.J. (1928) -
Bolkay, S.J. (1929) -
Bolkay, S.J. & Ćurčić, V. (1930) -
Bolkay, S..J. & Ćurčić, V. (1930) -
Boll, E. (1864) -
Bollian, C. (0000) -
Bolnykh I.I. & Zhigileva O.N. (2016) -
The paper presents data on the variability of basic morphological characters of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) inhabiting the vicinities of the cities Tyumen (Western Siberia) and Sterlitamak (Southern Urals). Five subtypes of back coloration were identified. Typical and atypical variants of the coloration pattern are described. A high level of the genetic variability of the ISSR markers of sand lizards was revealed. It was significantly lower in the group of mature individuals as compared to juveniles. Key words: Lacerta agilis, morphology, exterior signs, color polymorphism, genetic variability, DNA markers, Western Siberia, Southern Urals.
Больных И.И., Жигилева О.Н. (2016) -
Представлены данные об изменчивости основных морфологических признаков прыткой ящерицы Lacerta agilis, обитающей в окрестностях г. Тюмень (Западная Сибирь) и г. Стерлитамак (Южный Урал). Выделено пять под-типов окраски спины. Описаны типичные и атипичные варианты рисунка. Выявлен высокий уровень генетической изменчивости прыткой ящерицы по ISSR-маркерам. В группе половозрелых особей он значительно меньше, чем среди ювенильных.
Bologna, G.M. & Capula, M. & Carpaneto, G.M. & Cignini, B. & Marangoni, C. & Venchi, A. & Zapparoli, M. (2003) -
Mit dem Verbreitungsatlas der Amphibien und Reptilien Roms legt das vielköpfige Autorenteam ein Werk vor, das -soweit dem Rezensenten bekannt - erstmalig detailliert Auskunft über die urbane Herpetofauna einer mediterranen, international bedeutsamen Großstadt liefert. Allein schon die Abgrenzung des Untersuchungsraumes ist bemerkenswert, die sich nämlich nicht an der Stadtgrenze orientiert, sondern an der ringförmig das Stadtzentrum umgebenden Autobahn (Grande Raccordo Annulare) und damit statt eines administrativen einen funktionalen Charakter besitzt. Die Vielfalt der römischen Stadtlandschaften innerhalb des 360 km² großen Untersuchungsraumes wird anhand zahlreicher Photos belegt, die von der historischen Altstadt und den hochgradig versiegelten Innenstadtbereichen zur Peripherie hin über zunehmend aufgelockerte Stadtteile bis hin zu agrarisch genutzten Randzonen reichen. Gleichzeitig liefern die Photos einen ersten Hinweis auf das Angebot herpetologisch relevanter Lebensraumtypen. Exemplarisch seien hier die archäologischen Fundstätten und historische Parkanlagen aber auch weitere naturnahe Flächen genannt, denen als innerstädtischen Refugialbiotopen eine besondere Bedeutung zukommt. Die Genese des 1996 gestarteten Kartierungsprojektes, die von über hundert Mitarbeitern stammende Datenbasis sowie der verwendete Erfassungsbogen werden kurz vorgestellt. Grundlage der Verbreitungskarten ist ein UTM-km²-Raster. Den eigentlichen Artkapiteln wird ein mit Zeichnungen unterstützer Bestimmungsschlüssel vorangestellt. Die doppelseitigen Artkapitel sind jeweils nach folgendem Schema aufgebaut: Photo, Gesamtverbreitung, Vorkommen in Rom, Verbreitungskarte, tab. Angabe der Präsenzwerte für die Zeitintervalle 1980-1995, 1996-2002, 1980-2002, Biologie und ökologie. Das aktuelle, seit 1996 dokumentierte Artenspektrum setzt sich aus 10 Amhibien- und 16 Reptilienarten zusammen, darunter mit T. scripta eine allochthone Art. Die meisten Amphibienarten sind nur noch relikthaft im Stadtgebiet nachweisbar. So liegen die aktuellen Präsenzwerte von S. terdigitata, R. dalmatina, R. italica, T. carnifex und H. intermedia zwischen 0,3 und 2,2% und selbst T. vulgaris wurde nur in 3% der Untersuchungsraster nachgewiesen. Höhere Präsenzwerte werden für B. viridis (8%) angegeben, aber lediglich der Wasserfroschkomplex R. bergeri / R. kl. hispanica (16,7%) und B. bufo (17,2%) sind im Stadtgebiet von Rom noch relativ verbreitet. Ein deutlich anderes Bild ergibt sich für die Reptilienfauna: Während auch hier neun Arten nur Präsenzwerte zwischen 0,8 und 5% erreichen (in aufsteigender Reihenfolge: N. tesselata, T. hermanni, E. orbicularis, E. quattuorlineata, V. aspis, A. fragilis, T. scripta, E. longissima, N. natrix), sind die übrigen 7 Taxa noch relativ verbreitet und z.T. sogar bemerkenswert häufig. So liegen die Präsenzwerte von Ch. chalcides, H. turcicus und L. bilineata zwischen 15,5 und 17,2 und C. viridiflavus ist mit 19,4 die mit Abstand am weitesten verbreitete Schlangenart in der Großstadt Rom. Noch deutlich höhere Werte werden von T. mauritanica (28%), P. muralis (45,5%) und schließlich P. sicula (62,2) erreicht, die selbst in der Innenstadt regelmäßig auftreten und die die urbanen Raumstrukturen offensichtlich erfolgreich zu nutzen wissen. Ein Vergleich mit älteren Daten belegt, dass vier Arten ausgestorben sind (S. salamandra, B. variegata, C. austriaca, C. girondica) und dass die Bestände mehrerer weiterer Taxa in den letzten Jahren einen dramatischen Rückgang aufweisen (S. terdigitata, B. viridis, R. dalmatina, R. italica, E. orbicularis, L. bilineata, E. quattuorlineata, E. longissima). Abschließend kann dem kompetenten Autorenteam sowie dem Umwelt- und Kulturamt der Stadt Rom, die als Herausgeber des Verbreitungsatlas fungieren, ein großes Lob ausgesprochen werden. Italienische Sprachkenntnisse sind für das Verständnis der Arbeit nicht zwingend notwendig, da die wichtigsten Aussagen des klar gegliederten und sehr ansprechend gestalteten Heftes selbsterklärend sind. Vor diesem Hintergrund ist dieser Herpetofauna von Rom eine weite Verbreitung – und Folgeprojekte aus weiteren Großstädten! - zu wünschen.
Bologna, M.A. & Capula, M. & Carpaneto, G.M. (2000) -
Gegenstand des A4-formatigen und 160 Seiten umfassenden Buches ist eine erstmalige, detaillierte Zusammenstellung der Amphibien- und Reptilienfauna der Region Lazio in Mittelitalien. Das über 17.000 km² große Untersuchungsgebiet umfasst die drei küstennahen Provinzen Viterbo, Rom und Latina sowie die beiden „inländischen“ Provinzen Rieti und Frosinone, deren Hügel- und Berglandschaften lokal bis in alpine Höhenstufen von 2.000 bis 2.300 mNN hinaufreichen. Entsprechend artenreich ist die Herpetofauna (14 Amphibien / 19 Reptilien). Das einleitende Kapitel gilt einem Rückblick in die herpetologische Erforschung der Region seit Beginn des 18. Jahrhunderts. Anschließend wird die Datenbasis erläutert, die auf den mittels Erfassungsbögen dokumentierten Fundmeldungen von über 200 namentlich aufgeführten Personen beruht. Das folgende Kapitel enthält einen ausführlichen und von Zeichnungen unterstützten Bestimmungs- und Larvenschlüssel. Das eigentliche Kernstück des Buches sind die Artkapitel, in denen jede Art auf einer Doppelseite nach folgendem Schema vorgestellt wird: Wissenschaftlicher Name: Synonyme, italienischer, englischer und französischer Name, Lokalnamen – Gesamtverbreitung, Italien, Unterarten, Lazio - ökologische Daten aus Lazio, Phänologie und Fortpflanzung - Status und Schutzaspekte – Literatur.
Bombi, P. (2005) -
Bombi, P. (2011) -
Bombi, P. & Bologna, M.A. (2002) -
The trophic niche of two sympatric species of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis and P. sicula) was studied by the analysis of both stomach contents and faecal pellets, and differences in trophic spectra, food niche breadth, and niche overlap were compared. The analysis based on stomach contents provided more complete and detailed data. Podarcis sicula appeared to be a more generalist predator than P. muralis, and the niche overlap between the two species was very Jow. Differences from literature data showing a higher overlap can be due to local food preferences and different methods of analysis.
Bombi, P. & Calò, F. & Salvi, D. (2024) -
Thermoregulation is essential for ectotherms but its relative cost, especially under ongoing climate change, depends on the thermal quality of habitats. Populations at the warm margin of a thermal niche could be negatively affected by environmental temperatures that approach the limits of a species’ thermoregulation capacity. This study aims to define the thermal niche of the Bedriaga’s rock lizard, Archaeolacerta bedriagae, a rock-dwelling species endemic to the Corsica and Sardinia islands (western Mediterranean Sea), and to investigate its thermoregulation effectiveness at the warm edge of its niche. We collected data on climate, body temperature, and microhabitat temperature throughout the species’ range to characterize its thermal niche. We found that A. bedriagae does not occupy the entire climatic space available across its distribution range; rather, it selects temperate climates. Remarkably, thermoregulation effort increases when the habitat thermal quality decreases towards warmer sites. Populations at the warm edge of the thermal niche show the best thermoregulation effectiveness, but they are also more sensitive to the effects of climate change as they may already be at (or beyond) the species’ maximum thermal capacity under the current conditions. We observed such a pattern at the extreme hot side of the thermal niche. This study provides key information on the thermoregulatory response of A. bedriagae to ongoing climate change that can be useful to identify populations facing a higher extinction risk either currently or in the near future.
Bombi, P. & Salvi, D. (2016) -
Bombi, P. & Salvi, D. & Bologna, M.A. (2006) -
Bombi, P. & Salvi, D. & Bologna, M.A. (2008) -
Bombi, P. & Salvi, D. & Bologna, M.A. (2012) -
For planning practical measures aimed at biodiversity protection, conservation priorities must be identified at a local scale. Unfortunately, identifying local conservation priorities requires high-resolution data on species distribution, and these are often unavailable. Atlases of species distribution provide data for several groups of organisms in many different areas but are often too coarse in resolution to provide valuable information. We explored the possibility of cross-scale modelling species distributions and we clarified, for the first time, its effect on prioritization exercises. We used different modelling techniques for scaling down atlas data for Sardinian reptiles, validated the outcomes with detailed, field-sampled data, and compared conservation priorities deriving from atlas maps and downscaled models. Doing this, we obtained as a further result the identification of priority species and areas for future conservation strategies. Our results encourage us to experiment further with this approach. Through the downscaling procedure, we obtain high-resolution models with strong variations in predictive performances, although most of the models show satisfactory/excellent scores. This testifies that low-resolution data can be downscaled maintaining low rates of omission and commission errors. Increasing the resolution of distribution maps used for prioritization influences the spatial patterns of priority but does not modify the evaluation of species representation. Overall, we show that atlases can meet the large demand for distribution data by decision makers if appropriate downscaling procedures are adopted. In addition, we provide practical instruments for the conservation of reptiles in Sardinia by identifying priority species and areas that require strict management.
Bombi, P. & Salvi, D. & Luiselli, L. & Bologna, M.A. (2009) -
Studies of the ecological characteristics of sympatric species are important for developing and testing ecological theory, but may be of interest also for conservation biology research when the study species are threatened, endemic and with narrow distribution. Here, we studied a particular aspect of the ecology (i.e. microhabitat use) of two sympatric lizards (Archaeolacerta bedriagae, Podarcis tiliguerta) endemic to Sardinia and Corsica (Tyrrhenian islands). We studied this issue by modelling procedures, using field data collected at six study areas in both Sardinia and Corsica. We recorded 18 microhabitat variables for each lizard spot. The variables were entered as independent variables in logistic regression analysis with the presence/absence data for the lizards as the dependent variable, and Akaike Information Criterion was applied to select the best models describing the ecological equation of each study species. In total, we based our modelling approach on 296 individuals of A. bedriagae and 182 of P. tiliguerta. The general logistic regression models revealed that five distinct variables were significantly correlated to the presence/absence of A. bedriagae, and six to that of P. tiliguerta. We found that three variables were important for only P. tiliguerta, two for only A. bedriagae, and three for both species and with an identical sign. We also found some similarities in microhabitat choice between species. Indeed, some variables were always present in the best models of both A. bedriagae and P. tiliguerta. In general, A. bedriagae was more related to spots with large stones and low vegetation than P. tiliguerta, which, on the contrary, choose spots relatively closer to vegetation. The various reasons explaining the observed similarities and differences between species were examined. It is suggested that our modelling procedure may be widely used for studies of lizard community ecology, because it easy to use and allows a more-in-depth analysis than normal `count approaches`.
Bombi, P. & Salvi, D. & Vignoli, L. & Bologna, M.A. (2009) -
Many techniques for predicting species potential distribution were recently developed. Despite the international interest for these procedures, applications of predictive approaches to the study of Italian fauna distribution are exceptionally rare. This paper aimed at: (a) detecting climatic exigencies of A. bedriagae in Sardinia; (b) predicting the Archaeolacerta bedriagae Sardinian potential distribution; (c) identifying the most vulnerable Italian populations of the species. Literature and field data were utilized as presence records. Six modelling procedures (BIOCLIM, DOMAIN, ENFA, GAM, GLM, and MAXENT) were adopted. The species climatic requirements were defined using the WorldClim databank for deriving the environmental predictors. AUC and Kappa values were calculated for models validation. AUC values were compared by using Anova Monte Carlo. The best four models were combined through the weighted average consensus method for producing a univocal output. GAM and MAXENT had the best performances (respectively: AUC = 0.93 ± 0.03, Kappa = 0.77 ± 0.08; AUC = 0.93 ± 0.03, Kappa = 0.78 ± 0.07). Good results were also obtained by GLM and DOMAIN (respectively: AUC = 0.89 ± 0.04, Kappa = 0.72 ± 0.05; AUC = 0.88 ± 0.04, Kappa = 0.69 ± 0.07). BIOCLIM and ENFA gained relatively low performances (respectively: AUC = 0.78 ± 0.07, Kappa = 0.57 ± 0.14; AUC = 0.75 ± 0.06; Kappa = 0.49 ± 0.10). In Sardinia A. bedriagae is mainly influenced by seasonality, which causes the evidenced range fragmentation. Moreover, the general importance of multi-methods approaches and consensus techniques in predicting species distribution was highlighted.
Bombi, P. & Vignoli, L. (2004) -
Arcbaeolacerta bedriagae is a polytypic species endemie to Corsica and Sardinia II represents one of the most peculiar elements of the Italian herpetofauna. This species has a fragmented range in Sardinia. The aim of this paper is to summarise the knowledge on the distribution of this lizard in Sardinia, based both on literature and original records, and to define the conservation status of its populations This research was carried out throughout the entire Sardinian territory, from June 2000 to September 2002. Most of the known sites of occurrence of A. bedriagae were checked, characterised from geomorphologic and florofaunistic points of view and gco-referenced. The surveys carried out explored only the potentially suitable habitats in different hours of the day. Three new localities were discovered, 10 checked sites were confirmed, 12 localities were not confirmed and 43 previously quoted sites were not explored. Two sampling sites were selected for a population study. In the latter two localities, several population parameters, such as density and sex ratio were studied. In the mountain site, a population density twenty limes higher than that found at the sea level site was estimated. Only five species were found to be syntopic with A. bedriagae, Podarcis tiliguerta, Algyroides fitzingeri, Tarentola mauritanica, Chalcides ocellatus and Coluber viridiflavus. The Sardinian subrange includes seven main areas of certain presence, but an underestimation due to their elusivity and the low density of some populations is possible The species generally inhabits areas of scarce interest and difficult for man to reach, though at least in some localities it seems to be disturbed by an increase in tourism. Some conservation actions were proposed.
Bombi, P. & Vignoli, L. & Scalera, R. & Bologna, M.A. (2005) -
Bombieri, G. & Corradi, L. & Nardelli, A. & Iversen, D. (2017) -
A colony of Podarcis siculus has been confirmed in 2017 on the island of Trimelone, on the eastern coast of the Garda Lake. A transect performed on the whole length of the island revealed the good state of health of the colony, with a total of 48 censused individuals and the absence of other species of lizards. A subsequent transect on the stretch of the coast of the lake facing the isle suggested the absence of Podarcis siculus, the presence of Podarcis muralis and a high abundance of Natrix tessellata.
Bombieri, G. & Novelli, F. & Pesentel, M. (2022) -
Bonacci, T. & Aloise, G. & Brandmayr, P. & Zetto Brandmayr, T. & Capula, M. (2008) -
Food preferences and the effects of prey chemical repellents in the dietary behaviour of Podarcis sicula were tested using four species of Carabid beetles as prey models. The goal of the study was to assess (i) the ability of P. sicula to recognize insect preys provided with chemical repellents and aposematic colorations under laboratory conditions, and (ii) the importance of chemical signals used by the prey model as antipredatory strategy. Preys used in this study were Brachinus sclopeta and Anchomenus dorsalis (aposematic species) and Amara anthobia and A. aenea (non-aposematic species). Aposematic species are characterized by warning color pattern and by production of chemical repellents, while non-aposematic ones do not. Amara anthobia and A. aenea were attacked with high frequency by P. sicula, Brachinus sclopeta and Anchomenus dorsalis with low frequency. Non-aposematic species were preyed more often than the aposematic ones. Brachinus sclopeta was preyed after low latency, while Amara anthobia and A. aenea after long latency. Non-aposematic species were captured and eaten without difficulty, while when B. sclopeta or A. dorsalis were captured, lizards always tossed their head and then rub the snout on the soil, probably because of the unpalatability of aposematic preys.
Bonacci, T. & Aloise, G. & Cagnin, M. & Brandmayr, P.& Zetto Brandmayr, T. (2004) -
Bonaparte, C.L. (1838) -
Bonaparte, C.L. (1839) -
Bonaparte, L. (1839) -
Bonardi, A. & Ficetola, G.F. & Razzetti, E. & Canedoli, C. & Falaschi, M. & Lo Parrino, E. & Rota, N.& Padoa-Schioppa, E.& Sindaco, R. (2022) -
Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy 3Laboratoire d’Ecologie Alpine, University Grenoble Alpes, University Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, Grenoble, France 4Kosmos – Museo di Storia Naturale dell’Università di Pavia, Pavia, Italy 5Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy 6I.P.L.A., Istituto per le Piante da Legno e l`Ambiente, Torino, Italy Correspondence Gentile Francesco Ficetola, Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, 20126 Milano, Italy. Email: francesco.ficetola@gmail.com Funding information Italian Ministry for Research, Grant/Award Number: 2017KLZ3MA Editor: Ana Margarida Coelho dos Santos Abstract Aim: Analyses of biogeographical patterns and macroecology of islands require large datasets reporting the occurrence of species. The Mediterranean region is a biodiver- sity hotspot, which hosts a large number of reptile species and has been the focus of many studies. Nevertheless, comprehensive inventories describing the features and biodiversity of these environments are lacking. We gathered a dataset summarizing data on reptile distribution on islands of the Mediterranean basin and Macaronesia, also including detailed information on the geographical features. Location: Islands from the Mediterranean Basin, the Atlantic Ocean within the Mediterranean biogeographical region, and Macaronesia (Canary and Savage Islands, Azores, Madeira and Cape Verde). Time period: Present. Taxon: Reptiles (squamates and turtles). Methods: Initially, we developed a geographical database describing islands of the study region, then gathered information on reptile occurrences from 757 bibliograph- ical sources, including atlases, published papers and the grey literature. Through a critical review of these sources, we also obtained information on the status of popula- tions (native, island endemic or non-native) and on the reliability of occurrence data. Results: We obtained basic geographical information from 1875 islands covering the whole study region and with a very broad range of geographical features. We gath- ered >4150 records of reptile occurrence on islands, referring to 198 taxonomic units (species or species complexes); information on population status was available for 84.9% of records. Data are provided as comma-delimited text files. Main conclusions: The database provides a key resource for biogeographical analyses and can also serve as a backbone for conservation studies. The availability of a large database on island features can also be useful for biogeographers working on other taxonomic groups. Nevertheless, more data are required for some geographical areas, in order to ascertain the status (e.g., native vs. non-native) of many populations and to understand the interplay between natural and human-driven processes.
Bonath, K. (2007) -
Bonati, B. & Csermely, D. (2011) -
Several ectotherms show lateralisation, particularly visual lateralisation. Such brain specialisation has an ancient origin and is still present in living vertebrates. One important advantage is the possibility for lateralised animals to carry out two tasks at the same time, without altering the efficiency of either one. Recent studies on the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) found right eye/left hemisphere bias for attention to the cues of prey, and left eye/right hemisphere bias for controlling antipredatory and exploratory behaviours. However, these studies were independent of each other and therefore were not empirical demonstrations that the directions of visual lateralisation found in this species are present in the same individual, allowing the simultaneous performance of dual tasks. In our study the same Podarcis muralis individuals carried out one exploratory and one predatory test each. We allowed each lizard to move freely in a circular arena, with opaque walls, with either nothing or mealworm larvae in the centre. In the first case the test was an exploratory test, while in the second case it was a predatory one. The results indicated that lizards preferentially used the left eye to observe the environment—i.e., during exploration—and just tended to use the right eye during predation. Hence we conclude that in the Podarcis muralis lizard lateralisation is expressed in the same individual in opposite directions, in accordance with previous observations.
Bonati, B. & Csermely, D. (2013) -
Recent research has provided information about the right-eye mediation of predatory tasks in several taxa of ectotherms, while antipredatory and exploratory behaviours are generally mediated by the left eye. This type of visual specialisation allows individuals to hunt and to remain vigilant at the same time. However, very little is known about such specialisation in sauropsids. In this study, we report on several different experiments which have investigated the presence of lateralization in the lacertid Podarcis muralis lizard, for predatory, antipredatory, and exploratory behaviours. We found right-eye control in prey detection in a T-maze and in a detour test. In contrast, in escape behaviour from a simulated predator, we found that lizards significantly preferred to escape to the right, and once at a safe distance, to turn their head back towards the left in order to review the source of the threat, thereby supporting a left-eye mediated processing of antipredatory stimuli. In experiments investigating the exploration of a new environment, a strong left-eye bias was found once again. Finally, with individual lizards tested in experimental situations of both predation and exploration, we confirmed once again a right-eye visual system for controlling predatory cues and a left-eye visual system for controlling exploratory cues, supporting the hypothesis that cerebral specialisation of functions allows the simultaneous performance of important tasks as part of the daily routine.
Bonati, B. & Csermely, D. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2010) -
Lateralization in ectotherms is now as well studied as in endotherms. Bias in eye use seems widespread, particularly in several ectotherms, most of them having lateral eyes. Several studies evidenced that the right eye/left hemisphere is involved in predatory behaviour and food searching while the left eye/right hemisphere seems to control predator monitoring, making lateralized individuals able to carry out both tasks simultaneously. Starting from previous observations that demonstrated a right-eye/left-hemisphere preference for observing a prey in common wall lizards, Podarcis muralis, we investigated whether a visual lateralization in antipredatory behaviour is present too. In a first experiment, we induced lizards in a terrarium to escape from a simulated predator attacking from behind, recording the direction of the escape path in relation to the starting point. We found that the preferred escape direction of most lateralized individuals was to the right and there was also a strong rightward preference in escape direction as a whole. In a second experiment the lizards, again stimulated from behind, had to choose to run down either the right or the left arm of a semi-circular tunnel (“ram-horn” maze). The rightward preference in escape behaviour was confirmed in this experiment too. We conclude that the constant rightward escape could be due to a left-eye early perception of the threatening cue and to the possibility it gives of better monitoring of most of the terrarium surface. Moreover, we found a left bias in turning the head for monitoring the predatory stimulus during escape, supporting the hypothesis that such a preference is likely due to visual lateralization rather than to motor lateralization.
Bonati, B. & Csermely, D. & Romani, R. (2008) -
Bonati, B. & Csermely, D. & Sovrano, V.A. (2013) -
Studies carried out with the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) revealed preferential use of the left eye during responses to predatory threat in laboratory settings and in the wild. Here we tested lizards under monocular conditions of vision, using temporary eye-patching. Lizards were facing a (simulated) predatory threat laterally, from the side of the non-patched eye. Results showed that lizards with the left eye uncovered during predatory threat used the left eye to monitor the predator, whereas lizards with the right eye uncovered nonetheless tried to use the covered left eye. Moreover, lizards frequently tried to change the eye exposition, making a body C-bend behaviour. Right-eyed lizards showed more frequent and faster C-bending responses than left-eyed lizards, trying to monitor the predator with the left eye even though it was patched. Results fit with asymmetries in spontaneous eye use observed in laboratory conditions and in the wild in this species, confirming that structures located on the right side of the brain (mainly served by the left eye) predominantly attend to predatory threat.
Lizards (Podarcis muralis) preferentially use the left eye during spatial exploration in a binocular condition. Here we allowed 44 adult wild lizards to explore an unknown maze for 20 min under a temporary monocular condition whilst recording their movements, particularly the direction of turns made whilst walking within the maze. Lizards with a patch on their right eye, i.e. using their left eye to monitor the environment, moved faster than lizards with a patch on their left eye when turning both leftward and rightward in a T-cross. Hence, right eye-patched lizards were faster than left eye-patched lizards also in turning right, although their right eye was covered. Thus, lizards that could use the left eye/right hemisphere to attend spatial cues appeared to have more control and to be more prompt in exploring the maze. In addition, female lizards with their left eye covered stopped very frequently when they reached crosses, showing a high level of indecision. Results confirm that P. muralis lizards using their left eye only in exploring a new environment react faster and more efficiently than those using the right eye only in exploration. Hence lateralisation of spatial stimuli mediated by the left eye/right hemisphere could provide an advantage to this species.
Bonati, B. & Quaresmini, C. & Stancher, G. & Sovrano, V.A. (2017) -
As recent studies have shown a left-eye preference during exploration in Podarcis muralis, which could be strictly related to its territoriality, we tested the same behaviour in a similar species, but one living in different habitats and showing a different ecology. In particular, we assessed the preferential turning direction in adults of a non-territorial lizard, Zootoca vivipara, during the exploration of an unknown maze. At the population level, no significant preference emerged, possibly for the lack of the territorial habit and the characteristics of the natural environment. Nevertheless, females turned to the left more frequently than males did. We hypothesize this as a motor bias, possibly due to a necessity for females to be coordinated and fast in moving in the environment, because of their viviparous condition and the resultant reduction of physical performance during pregnant periods, which are likely to increase vulnerability to predators.
Bonato, L. (2011) -
Bondarenko, D.A. (2020) -
In 2018–2019, isolated sandy habitats in the Ferghana oasis were surveyed. The reptile communities in the sands had a similar structure and very high population density, reaching up to 144 ind./ha. In all habi- tats, two racerunner species absolutely predominated, namely, Eremias velox and Eremias scripta, which accounted from 56.9 to 94.5% of the total abundance. In some habitats the dominants included Rusta- mov’s plate-tailed gecko and Strauch’s toad-headed agama. Three endemic lizard species (Phrynocephalus strauchi, Eremias scripta pherganensis, and Teratoscincus scincus rustamowi) had high population density and were classified as common or numerous. They accounted for an average of 52% (34–74%) of the total reptile abundance. The relationship among reptiles and their distribution in their biotopes were described. The current status of the habitats was assessed and few factors affecting the number of reptiles were considered. Due to plowing and watering, the area of sand habitats has decreased by 3.7 times since 1960 (down to about 180 km2). The only protected area (the Yazyavan natural monu- ment) is not enough to maintain the biodiversity of these isolated desert habitats. It is necessary to enlarge the protected area by including several large massifs in several parts of the Fergana Valley. The total area of refuges in this case will be about 95 km2.
Бондаренко, Д.А. (2020) -
2018 – 2019 гг. обследованы изолированные песчаные местообитания Ферганского оазиса. Сообщества прес- мыкающихся песков имели сходную структуру и очень высокую плотность населения, доходившую до 144 особ./ га. Во всех местообитаниях абсолютно доминировали два вида ящурок – Eremias velox и Eremias scripta, на ко- торых в сумме пришлось от 56.9 до 94.5% от общего обилия. В некоторых местообитаниях к доминантам присое- динялись сцинковый геккон Рустамова и круглоголовка Штрауха. Три эндемичных вида ящериц (Phrynocephalus strauchi, Eremias scripta pherganensis, Teratoscincus scincus rustamowi) имели высокую плотность населения и отнесены к обычным или многочисленным видам. На них пришлось в среднем 52% (34 – 74%) от общего обилия пресмыкающихся. Описано взаимоотношение пресмыкающихся и их распределение по биотопам. Проведена оценка современного состояния местообитаний и рассмотрены факторы, влияющие на численность пресмы- кающихся. Из-за распахивания и обводнения площадь песчаных местообитаний сократилась с 1960 г. в 3.7 раза и составляет около 180 км2. Единственной охраняемой территории (природного памятника «Язъяван») недоста- точно для поддержания биоразнообразия изолированных пустынных местообитаний. Необходимо увеличить площадь охраняемой территории за счет включения в нее нескольких крупных массивов в разных районах Ферганской долины. Общая площадь рефугиумов составит в этом случае около 95 км2.
Bondarenko, D.A. & Dujsebayeva, T.N. (2024) -
We used the route method to carry out quantitative counts of reptiles in nine regions of Southeastern Kazakhstan. The results yielded data on the population density of reptiles in fourteen habitats. We observed the greatest diversity of species and the largest number of rep- tiles in sandy deserts. Both measures were much smaller in loamy plains and low mountains. In desert habitats, the Central Asian tortoise Agrionemys horsfieldii and the rapid racerunner Ere- mias velox were more common than other species. In the desert habitat, agama Trapelus san- guinolentus was less common. Despite its wide distribution, the Central Asian tortoise was rare or common in most habitats: its population density values did not exceed four individuals/ha. High numbers (23.2±8.4 ind./ha) were recorded for the species only in the north of the Moyin- kum desert. The population density of the tortoise in commercial harvesting areas from 1950 up to the 1980s remained low (3.5±0.9 ind./ha) and failed to recover. Using the population density data, we calculated similarity indices of reptile communities and then grouped communities in- to several complexes based on similarity indices and the ecological specialization of numerical- ly dominant species. In loamy, sandy loam, and stony deserts, eurytopic species formed the ba- sis of the population. These were A. horsfieldii, E. velox, and T. sanguinolentus. In the sands of Taukum and Saryesik Atyrau, racerunners (Eremias) dominated in the reptile communities. These were E. intermedia, E. lineolata, and E. velox, among these stenotopic species dominated. The community of the foothills of the Kyrgyz ridge turned out to be the most isolated from the others. The similarity was revealed between nine desert areas in terms of reptile fauna. The de- serts that are similar in landscape features (especially the substrate and vegetation) had high in- dices of commonality regardless of their remoteness and isolation. This shows that the process of historical dispersal of species and their movement between territories faced no obstacles.
Д.А. Бондаренко & Т.Н. Дуйсебаева (2024) -
В девяти районах Юго-восточного Казахстана провели количественные учё- ты пресмыкающихся маршрутным методом. В результате наблюдений получили данные о плотности населения пресмыкающихся в четырнадцати ландшафтах (местообитаниях). Наибольшее видовое разнообразие и обилие пресмыкающихся наблюдали в песчаных пустынях. На суглинистых равнинах и низкогорьях эти оценки были низкими. В пустын- ных местообитниях чаще других видов встречались среднеазиатская черепаха Agrionemys horsfieldii и быстрая ящурка Eremias velox; реже встречалась степная агама Trapelus san- guinolentus. Несмотря на широкое распространение, среднеазиатская черепаха была ред- кой или обычной в большинстве местообитаний: значения плотности населения не превы- шали 4 особ./га. Высокое обилие вида (23.2±8.4 особ./га) отмечено только на севере пус- тыни Мойынкум. В районах промысла 1950 – 1980-х гг. плотность населения черепахи не восстановилась и осталась низкой (3.5±0.9 особ./га). Рассчитаны индексы общности сооб- ществ пресмыкающихся по данным плотности населения. По индексам общности и эко- логической специализации численно преобладающих видов сообщества объединили в несколько комплексов. В суглинистых, супесчаных и каменистых пустынях основу ком- плекса составили эвритопные виды: A. horsfieldii, E. velox и T. sanguinolentus. В песках Тау- кум и Сарыесик Атырау в сообществах пресмыкающихся доминировали ящурки (Ere- mias): E. intermedia, E. lineolata, E. velox, среди которых преобладали стенотопные виды. Сообщество предгорий Киргизского хребта оказалось наиболее обособленным от осталь- ных. Выяснили также сходство 9 пустынных районов по фауне пресмыкающихся. Одно- типные по ландшафтным особенностям (особенно субстрату и растительности) пустыни имели высокие индексы общности независимо от их удаленности и территориальной изоляции. Это показывает, что процесс исторического расселения видов и их перемеще- ния между территориями не встречал препятствий.
Bondarenko, D.A. & Ergashev, U.H. (2022) -
Population density of reptiles in four desert areas of southwestern Tajikistan was es- timated in spring 2018–2019. The structure of reptile communities in seven typical landscapes was described. The highest species diversity and population density were observed in sandy landscapes. Seven species of psammobionts formed the basis of these reptile communities. Among them Phrynocephalus interscapularis (56.4), Crossobamon eversmanni (27.8), Eremias lineolata (15.6), Eremias scripta (13.0) had the highest distribution and high population density (individuals/hectare). The relationship of cohabitating species was considered. The highest total population density of reptiles (89.0 ind./ha) was discovered on sandy ridges along the Amu Darya. On the loamy plain the population density of four species was 8.4 ind./ha, and on the foothill plain 2.4 ind./ha. Eremias nigrocellata (2.0 ind./ha) dominated in reptile communities on solid ground. In total, 25 species of reptiles inhabit the desert plains of Southwestern Tajiki- stan. 17 out of 25 (68%) species are included in the national Red Data Book. The level of en- demism and similarity of reptile fauna in desert areas were high. Fauna similarity indices calcu- lated according to Sørensen were 0.9–0.8. These values indicate close contact and connection between desert communities. The formation of the reptile fauna in southwestern Tajikistan oc- curred as a result of dispersal of Turanian species across the left bank of the Amu Darya River from Turkmenistan. They moved to the right bank due to the changes in the riverbed at the Pleistocene Epoch. The absence of some reptile species (Teratoscincus scincus, C. eversmanni, Phrynocephalus mystaceus, E. lineolata, Eremias grammica, E. scripta, etc.) in Northern Af- ghanistan along the border with Tajikistan is explained by the lack of herpetological study of this territory. Their habitat in the area is highly probable. Isolation and autonomy of desert are- as in the Amu Darya valley create the opportunity for formation of new taxonomic forms. Ex- amples are lizards E. scripta ladzinni and P. interscapularis sogdianus. The desert plains of Southwest Tajikistan have a small area and are subjected to significant anthropogenic pressure. Protection of small species, including lizards (Phrynocephalus raddei, P. mystaceus, Varanus griseus) and snakes (Eryx tataricus, Spalerosophis diadema, Boiga trigonatum, Naja oxiana, Echis carinatus) is needed. For widespread and numerous psammobiont species (P. interscapu- laris, E. lineolata, E. grammica, E. scripta, C. eversmanni) there is no threat of extermination at the moment.
Д. А. Бондаренко & У. Х. Эргашев (2022) -
Весной 2018 – 2019 гг. проведена оценка плотности населения пресмыкаю- щихся в четырех пустынных районах Юго-Западного Таджикистана. Описана структура сообществпресмыкающихсявсемитипичныхландшафтах.Наибольшеевидовоераз- нообразие и плотность их населения отмечены в песчаных ландшафтах. Основу этих со- обществ пресмыкающихся составили семь псаммобионтных видов. Из них наибольшее распространение и высокую плотность населения (особ./га) имели Phrynocephalus inter- scapularis (56.4), Crossobamon eversmanni (27.8), Eremias lineolata (15.6), Eremias scripta (13.0). Рассмотрено взаимоотношение совместно обитающих видов. Наибольшая общая плотность населения пресмыкающихся (89.0 особ./га) выявлена на песчаных грядах вдоль Амударьи. На суглинистой равнине плотность населения четырех видов составила 8.4 особ./га, а на подгорной равнине – 2.4 особ./га. В сообществах пресмыкающихся на плотном грунте доминировала Eremias nigrocellata (2.0 особ./га). Всего на пустынных рав- нинах Юго-Западного Таджикистана установлено обитание 25 видов пресмыкающихся. Из них 17 (68%) видов занесены в национальную Красную книгу. Уровень эндемизма и сходство фауны пресмыкающихся пустынных районов оказались высокими. Индексы сходства фауны (по Сёренсену) составили 0.9 – 0.8. Эти значения указывают на тесный контакт и связь пустынных сообществ. Формирование фауны пресмыкающихся Юго-За- падного Таджикистана произошло в результате расселения туранских видов вверх по ле- вобережью Амударьи со стороны Туркменистана. На правый берег они перешли в резуль- тате изменения русла реки в плейстоценовую эпоху. Отсутствие находок некоторых видов пресмыкающихся (Teratoscincus scincus, C. eversmanni, Phrynocephalus mystaceus, E. lineo- lata, Eremias grammica, E. scripta и др.) в Северном Афганистане вдоль границы с Таджи- кистаном объясняются недостаточной изученностью территории. Их обитание на ней вы- соко вероятно. Изоляция и автономность пустынных районов в долине р. Амударьи соз- дают предпосылки для образования новых таксономических форм. Примером являются обитающие здесь ящерицы E. scripta ladzinni и P. interscapularis sogdianus. Пустынные рав- нины Юго-Западного Таджикистана имеют небольшую площадь и подвергаются значи- тельной антропогенной нагрузке. В защите особенно нуждаются малочисленные виды, к которым относятся некоторые ящерицы (Phrynocephalus raddei, P. mystaceus, Varanus griseus) и змеи (Eryx tataricus, Spalerosophis diadema, Boiga trigonatum, Naja oxiana, Echis carinatus). Для широко распространенных и многочисленных псаммобионтных видов, таких как P. interscapularis, E. lineolata, E. grammica, E. scripta, C. eversmanni, угроза истребления пока отсутствует.
Bondarenko, D.A. & Peregontsev, E.A. (2018) -
Terrestrial route counts of reptiles in 24 localities of the plateau Ustyurt were carried out in 2007 – 2008. 474 individuals of 15 species were found along a total of 243.5 km passed. Based on the results of our survey, the reptile population structure has been clarified in 12 landscapes. The low specific diversity and population density of reptiles were observed everywhere. 2 to 8 species with a population density of 1.9 – 8.4 individuals per ha were found in certain landscapes. In terms of abundance, the reptiles belonged to rare or common species. The steppe agama Trapelus sanguinolentus and the Central Asian tortoise Agrionemys horsfieldii were the most abundant. Four racerunner species (Eremias) had a pronounced confinement to various types of substrate, which allowed them to occupy the dominant position in the landscapes by numbers. Four main landscape complexes of reptile communities were identified, which changed zonally in the latitudinal direction. The attitude of the reptiles to their environmental conditions is discussed. The plasticity of the Eremias species to substrates is estimated, and to distinguish its types is suggested.
Бондаренко Д. А. & Перегонцев Е. А. (2018) -
2007 – 2008 гг. проведены маршрутные учеты пресмыкающихся в 24 пунктах плато Устюрт. Всего пройдено 243.5 км, на которых встречено 474 особи 15 видов.По результатам учета выяснена структура населения пресмы- кающихся в 12 ландшафтах. Повсеместно наблюдалось низкое видовое разнообразие и плотность населения пресмыкающихся.Вотдельных ландшафтах отмечено от 2 до 8 видов при плотности населения 1.9 – 8.4 особ./га. По уровню обилия пресмыкающиеся относились к редким или обычным видам. Наиболее распространенными из них оказались степная агама и среднеазиатская черепаха . 4 вида ящурок ( ) имели выраженную приуроченность к различным типам субстрата, позволявшую занимать в ландшафтах доминирующее положение по численности. Выделено 4 основных ландшафтных комплекса сооб- ществ населения пресмыкающихся, которые сменяются зонально в широтном направлении. Обсуждается отно- шение пресмыкающихся к условиям среды. Оценивается пластичность видов к субстратам с предложе- нием различать ее типы.
Bonizzi, P. (1870) -
Bonnaffé, W. & Martin, M. & Mugabo, M. & Meylan, S. & Galliard, J.F. le (2018) -
The understanding of developmental patterns of body coloration is challenging because of the multicomponent nature of color signals and the multiple selective pressures acting upon them, which further depend on the sex of the bearer and area of display. Pigmentary colors are thought to be strongly involved in sexual selection, while structural colors are thought to generally associate with conspecifics interactions and improve the discrimination of pigmentary colors. Yet, it remains unclear whether age dependency in each color component is consistent with their potential function. Here, we address lifelong ontogenetic variation in three color components (i.e. UV, pigmentary, and skin background colors) in a birth cohort of common lizards Zootoca vivipara across three ventral body regions (i.e. throat, chest, and belly). All three color components developed sexual dichromatism, with males displaying stronger pigmentary and UV colors but weaker skin background coloration than females. The development of color components led to a stronger sexual dichromatism on the concealed ventral region than on the throat. No consistent signs of latelife decay in color components were found except for a deceleration of UV reflectance increase with age on the throat of males. These results suggest that body color components in common lizards are primarily nonsenescent sexual signals, but that the balance between natural and sexual selection may be altered by the conspicuousness of the area of display. These results further support the view that skin coloration is a composite trait constituted of multiple color components conveying multiple signals depending on age, sex, and body location.
Bonnemayer, J.J.A.M. & Dietvorst, P.J.M. (1979) -
De dreigende verdwijning van de muurhagedis Lacerta muralis (Laurenti) vormde de aanleiding tot onderzoek. De restauratie van de `Hoge Fronten`, vestigingswerken stammend uit de 18e eeuw, verstoort de populatie zodanig en brengt zodanige wijzigingen aan in het biotoop, dat de soort in Nederland op uitsterven staat. Het onderzoek omvat een populatieonderzoek en een onderzoek naar de betrekkingen van de soort met abiotische, biotische en antropogene factoren. Het onderzoek levert gegevens over welke ingrepen nodig of toelaatbaar zijn voor het behoud van de muurhagedis in de `Hoge Fronten`. De populatie is zo klein, er werden slechts 44 exemplaren gemerkt, dat bij verdere achteruitgang de levensvatbaarheid zal verminderen en de populatie tenslotte zal uitsterven. De populatie-opbouw bleek door de slechte zomers duidelijk vergrijsd te zijn, en zich nog niet hersteld te hebben van de achteruitgang door de ingreep (egalisatie) van 1974. De paartijd en het verschijnen van de juvenielen vonden door de slechte weersomstandigheden laat in het jaar plaats, hetgeen weer consequenties heeft voor de aanwas en de sterfte van de juvenielen. De populatie bestond uit verschillende `deelpopulaties`, die niet allen tot voortplanting kunnen komen door het slechts voorkomen van één sexe. Uitwisseling tussen deelpopulaties werd niet geconstateerd, wel enkele malen migratie naar onbezette plaatsen. De dieren hebben een home range die in horizontale richting een gemiddelde doorsnede heeft van ongeveer 10 meter en in vertikale richting doorsnede van ongeveer 1.2 meter. De home range van de overlappen slechts aan de randen, die van de overlappen soms geheel. Totale overlap tussen home range van en kwam meerdere malen voor, vooral in de paartijd. Belangrijke structuren in de home range bleken te zijn: holen, zonplaatsen, schuilgelegenheid en overgangen tussen de muur en de vegetatie. In het voor- en najaar bevonden de dieren zich gezamenlijk op plaatsen waar diepe holen aanwezig waren. In de zomerperiode hadden de dieren meestal een eigen hol. Het voorkomen van de muurhagedis in het noorden van zijn verspreidingsgebied blijkt ten nauwste samen te hangen met klimaat en substraat. De soort wordt daar slechts gevonden in rivierdalen (hier heerst een gunstig klimaat, dat overeenkomt met het klimaat in het hoofdverspreidingsgebied) met stenig substraat ( hier heersen gunstige microklimatologische omstandigheden). In dit substraat komen droge, vorstvrije holen voor, welke bescherming bieden tegen strenge winters, die kunnen voorkomen in dit noordelijk verspreidingsgebied. Alle muren met een zuid-, oost- en westexpositie zijn, mits niet te veel beschaduwd of en te vervallen staat, geschikt als biotoop. De aktiviteit van de hagedissen is afhankelijk van de expositie van de muur, het seizoen en de weersomstandigheden. De thermoregulatie van de dieren kan optimaal verlopen, indien plaatsen aanwezig zijn met verschillend microklimaat zoals holen met een constant klimaat, een gevarieerd gestructureerde muur met verschillende exposities en inclinaties en vegetatie met een fijnkorrelige structuur, dat wil zeggen met veel afwisseling in zonbeschenen en beschaduwde plaatsen. Lacerta m. muralis blijkt zijn voedsel min of meer aselect te kiezen, er werden zowel bodemdieren als soorten van spleten en gaten in de muur, als ook soorten die in de vegetatie voorkomen, gegeten. De evertebratenfauna is meer gevarieerd in soortensamenstelling indien ook het milieu meer gevarieerd van samenstelling is. Dit wil zeggen voor de `Hoge Fronten`: veel spleten en gaten in de muren, een losse bodemstructuur van de vegetatie. Er werd eenmaal een parasiet aangetroffen op Lacerta m. muralis, namelijk de mijt Ophionyssus lacertinus (Berlese), een mediterrane soort. De belangrijkste predatoren op de `Hoge Fronten`zijn waarschijnlijk de lijsterachtigen en verwilderde huiskatten. Voldoende beschutting tegen deze dieren in de vorm van holen en spleten en ondoordringbare vegetatie, zoals Rubus spec. En Rosa spec., zijn noodzakelijk. De invloed van de recreatie op de populatie omvat predatie door huisdieren, wegvangen door `terrariumhouders`en kinderen, verstoring en verandering in het biotoop door betreding en muurafbraak. De negatieve invoed van de recreatie kan worden tegengegaan c.q. verminderd door meer toezicht op het bezoek, het veranderen van het padenpatroon, het instellen van rustgebieden en het creren van barrires in de vorm van hekken en/of ondoordringbare vegetatie. De invloed van de restauratie omvat het doden van de dieren door werktuigen of vallend puin, het versperren van de holen, het tijdelijk of misschien wel blijvend verlies van schuilgelegenheid, het vernietigen of veranderen van de voedselplaatsen en een ernstige verstoring van het gedrag. De restauratie heeft alles bij elkaar een sterk nivellerende werking, waardoor de fijnkorrelige structuur van het substraat wen de vegetatie, die onontbeerlijk is voor Lacerta m. muralis, verloren gaat. Het consolideren van matig verweerde muren en het enigszins restaureren met daarbij creren van voor de muurhagedis noodzakelijke structuren zoals holen en zonplaatsen, zou de achteruitgang van de populatie kunnen stoppen en zelfs het biotoop en daarmee het aantal dieren aanzienlijk uit kunnen breiden.
Bons, J. (1958) -
Bons, J. (1959) -
Bons, J. (1960) -
Bons, J. (1967) -
Bons, J. (1968) -
Bons, J. (1972) -
Cette note est destinée à faire le point sur le peuplement herpétologique du Maroc. Elle comprend: — Une liste des formes effectivement présentes au Maroc, avec les affinités biogéographiques des espèces, et éventuellement les travaux récents où ces formes sont étudiées. — Des commentaires sur les espèces africaines douteuses en Europe et européennes douteuses en Afrique. — Une liste des espèces à rechercher au Maroc. — Une discussion sommaire sur la systématique de certaines espèces marocaines.
Bons, J. (1989) -
Bons, J. & Bons, N. (1959) -
Bons, J. & Geniez, P. (1995) -
We have analysed several scalation characters and the geographic distribution of lizards of the Acanthodactylus erythrurus group to verify the validity of these criteria. These data are collated with biogeography to demonstrate the existence of two distinct species within what are known as common fringe-toed lizards: Acanthodactylus erythrurus, consisting of three subspecies, and Acanthodactylus lineomaculatus, monotypic and endemic to Morocco. Hypotheses concerning the population history of these animals are proposed
Bons, J. & Geniez, P. (1996) -
Bons, J. & Girot, B. (1962) -
Bons, J. & Girot, B. & Pasteur, G. (1977) -
Bons, N. (1962) -
Bons, N. (1963) -
Bons, N. (1964) -
Bons, N. (1965) -
Bons, N. (1966) -
Bons, N. (1968) -
Bons, N. (1969) -
Bons, N. (1971) -
Cytochemical methods have shown a progressive elimination of nuclear RNA from mature spermatids in the lizard Acanthodactylus erythrurus. The RNA bound to chromatin has been observed throughout spermiogenesis and is eliminated only at the final stage, i. e., the stage of transformation from the spermatid to the spermatozoon. These results differ from those obtained in insects where the nuclear as well as the nucleolar RNA disappears during the early stages of spermiogenesis.
Bons, N. (1972) -
Bons, N. (1973) -
Bönsel, D. & Malten, A. & Wagner, S. & Zizka, G. (2000) -
Boom, H. van den (2014) -
Borcea, M. (1974) -
Borcea, M. (1975) -
Borcea, M. (1976) -
Borcea, M. (1978) -
Borcea, M. (1979) -
Borcea, M. (1981) -
Borczyk, B (2008) -
Borczyk, B. (2008) -
Borczyk, B. (2000) -
Borczyk, B. (2001) -
Borczyk, B. & Gottfried, I. & Urban, R.G. & Kania, J. (2022) -
Ecosystem engineering is among the most important factors shaping ecosystems; however, it remains largely unstudied. Here, we present observations on three lizard species, the common lizard Zootoca vivipara, the sand lizard Lacerta agilis, and the slow worm Anguis fragilis, which use habitats created by the great capricorn beetle, Cerambyx cerdo. These galleries are heavily used by the common lizards and young sand lizards. We discuss the possible advantages of such beetle-created habitats for reptiles: antipredator refuges, hibernation sites, thermoregulatory behaviour, and preying activities. Since previous studies have reported numerous invertebrate species as well as vertebrates (including bats and snakes) in these refugia, we find the great capricorn beetle-inhabited oaks as potentially important microhabitats for a variety of animals.
Borczyk, B. & Kaczmarek, M. & Maslak, R. (2006) -
Borczyk, B. & Kusznierz, J. & Pasko, L. & Turniak, E. (2014) -
Sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) exhibit a clear pattern of sexual dimorphism, both in coloration and body proportions, where males have larger heads and are longer-legged at a given snout-to-vent length (SVL). In this study we analyse allometry of skull growth with SVL and skull length (SL) as references. The sand lizard skull is basically sexually size dimorphic and there are only minor shape differences. When SVL is used as a reference point, it generates differences in all traits to be measured, presumably because SVL is subject to different and strong selection pressures in both sexes. When skull length is taken as a reference point, differences in skull shape are restricted only to the postorbital region, which is wider in males. This may reflect selection pressure on stronger bite force in males.
Borczyk, B. & Maslak, R. & Pasko, P. (2004) -
Borczyk, B. & Pasko, L. (2011) -
Reptiles show a positive correlation between age and body size and it is common practice to infer the age of an animal from its size. However, the growth rate often differs between individuals, thus such practice may lead to false conclusions. Because age of an animal is a very important factor in many ecological studies, it should be determined with a minimum of error. Here, we compare the body size distribution among different age classes of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) to infer if it is possible to correctly determine their age on the basis of the body length. Our results show that the average error in age estimation on the basis of the lizard size is 1.36 year which is approximately 1/3 the average sand lizard life span.
Borg, J.P. ter (1999) -
Some notes are given on keeping P. lilfordi in captivity. These animals inhabit the small islands around Mallorca and Menorca. Many subspecies have been described from different islands. Keeping these animals is rather easy, but breeding is more difficult, since less than a third of the eggs is fertilized. It`s my experience, that they lay more clutches with often more eggs than suggested in Boh me (1986). Clutches consisting of six eggs and a yearly production of up to six clutches are reported. On average 3.5 clutches consisting of 3.25 eggs are produced each year during most of their reproductive life. Incubation time ranges from 26-65 days, depending on breeding temperature. At 29°C they tend to hatch at 30-35 days, but sometimes incubation lasts for more than 40 days. Most eggs are laid in April, but some clutches are produced as early as the beginning of March or as late as the beginning of June. On average different clurches of a female are separated by 21 days. In spite of the not optimal breeding results, the amount of animals taken care of by the author is increasing yearly. All the individual animals take part in the studbook lilfordi. The founder-animals of this studbook-population are seven males and four females. Together with nine other people, including two in England, a total population of 156 animals was accounted for in 1998. It is difficult to find new studbook participants, that can adopt some offspring.
Borg, J.P. ter (2000) -
BREEDING WITH CLOSELY RELATED ANIMALS, NOT WITHOUT RISK The negative consequences of inbreeding in small populations of reptiles and amphibians are discus- sed. When a species breeds in captivity, the resulting population after several generations often has a limi- ted amount of genetic variation. This is due to the fact that the ancestors of this group are made up of only a few founder-animals. Certain genetic charac- teristics can be expressed more frequent in their off- spring because they tend to accumulate in a small population, especially when the breeder tries to select for certain qualities. Other features are easily lost due to the often limited size of the group, in which only a limited amount of genes can be pre- sent. The animals are no longer wild, but in stead domesticated. with a coiled tail and a paralysed right hind leg. The remaining egg was opened and contained a still living animal that looked normal from chest to head. The rest ofits body consisted ofan unstructu- red tumour-like process. The healthy looking ani- mals and the lizards with the coiled tails thrived well, although the latter ones lost their abnormal shaped tail within an day. Olsson et al (1996) describes a very isolated popula- tion of Lacerta agilis in Sweden, in which malfor- med tails and paralysed extremities are often seen. Supported by laboratory experiments he claims that those aberrations are a result of inbreeding. In captivity populations can often be compared to a very isolated population in nature. Keepers of repti- les and amphibians should be well aware o f the nega- tive consequences ofmating between closely related animals of a species. It is a potential danger for the survival ofsome groups in captivity. It is recommen- ded to artificially enlarge the population ofa species, and with it its genetic variation, by working together with other keepers. Animals can be exchanged to minimize inbreeding, joining a studbook project is especially recommended. Jur ter Borg Sometimes negative features can be seen more fre- quent in those populations, especially when siblings are allowed to mate. The author describes offspring ofa brother/sister mating in Lacerta viridis. It is sug- gested, that on their turn their parents were proba- bly offspring of related animals too. Several clutches ofeggs were laid, often not fertilized and often dying off during incubation. Only two healthy looking juveniles hatched from 45 eggs. At first the author thought this was the result of Calcium/vitamin defi- ciency, although he had good results breeding seve- ral species ofPodarcis, giving the same care. More Calcium and vitamins were provided, resul- ting in a clutch of 12 eggs, ofwhich 3 not fertilized. The other eggs died offduring incubation. An other clutch of 17 eggs contained 6 unfertilized eggs. The rest ofthe eggs resulted in 7 normal looking animals, one fully grown juvenile that had died off just befo- re hatching, one animal with a coiled tail and one with a coiled tail and a paralysed right hind leg. The remaining egg was opened and contained a still living animal that looked normal from chest to head. The rest ofits body consisted ofan unstructu- red tumour-like process. The healthy looking ani- mals and the lizards with the coiled tails thrived well, although the latter ones lost their abnormal shaped tail within an day. Olsson et al (1996) describes a very isolated popula- tion of Lacerta agilis in Sweden, in which malfor- med tails and paralysed extremities are often seen. Supported by laboratory experiments he claims that those aberrations are a result of inbreeding. In captivity populations can often be compared to a very isolated population in nature. Keepers of repti- les and amphibians should be well aware o f the nega- tive consequences ofmating between closely related animals of a species. It is a potential danger for the survival ofsome groups in captivity. It is recommen- ded to artificially enlarge the population ofa species, and with it its genetic variation, by working together with other keepers. Animals can be exchanged to minimize inbreeding, joining a studbook project is especially recommended.
The author describes a herpetological vacation on Corsica. It is an island with lots ofdifferent habitats, where reptiles and amphibians are abundant. Several (sub)species are endemic to Corsica or to both Corsica and Sardinia, for instance Archaeolacerta bedriagae, Podarcis tiliguerta, Algyroides fitzingeri, Discoglossus montalemii, D. sardus, Hyla sarda, Euproctus montanus, Salamandra salamandra corsica and Natrix natrix corsa. Several others are probably introduced by men, for instance Podarcis sicula cam- pestris (in Ajaccio, Porro-Vecchio and Basria), P. s. cettii (in Bonifacio), Tarentola mauritanica, Rana esculenta, Bufo viridis and Testudo hermanni. Corsica and Sardinia are part of the natural distribution o f Phyllodactylus europaeus, Hemidactylus turcicus, Coluber viridif/avus, Emys orbicularis, Caretta caretta and Dermochelys coriacea, that inhabit other parts of Europe as well. Several species of lizards are in a more or less fierce competition with each other. A. bedriagae for instance is pushed to high altitude, bare rock and granite boulders in little streams, by P. tiliguerta. P. sicula campestris is successful in flat terrain, leaving only walls ofstacked stones toP. tiliguerta. P. s. cettii doesn`t even leave this habitat toP. tiliguerta. As for now P. sicula is restricted mainly to coastal areas, lea- ving the better part of Corsica to P. tiliguerta. D. sardus and D. montalentii are only recently recog- nised as different species. D. montalentii is endemic to Corsica, whereas D. sardus is known too from Sardinia. D. montalentii is living in high altitudes, especially in clear mountain-streams, D. sardus in lower altitudes and has a less specialised preference for its habitat. Corsica is a very interesting island from a herpetolo- gical point ofview.
Reptiles and amphibians from temperate zones can be kept in outdoor terrariums. Outside there is often more room for larger dwellings than inside the house. Measures have ro be taken to prevent mice, moles, cars and so on ro gain access to rhe interior. At some spot the animals have to find refuge during high temperatures and during hibernation. The author prefers glass covered terrariums, for instance glass-houses, for sunlight can create high tempera- tures even in early spring and late autumn. During rhe summer, part of the glass is removed to prevent excessive hearing. In winter a thick layer of dry lea- ves is applied when it starts freezing. Good results are obtained with Podarcis sicula, Podarcis lilfordi and Lacerta viridis in this way. On several spots the weekly highest and lowest tem- peratures are registered, for instance in a sunny spot, in the shadow and in rhe place of hibernation. Diagrams are shown representing rhe yearly varia- tion in these temperatures. Keeping animals this way gives an extra dimension to our hobby.
Borg, J.P. ter (2002) -
Borg, J.P. ter (2003) -
UNCOMMON COLOUR VARIETY OF THE SAND LIZARD (Lncertn agilis) During an excursion ro Wolfl1eeze (rhe Nerherlands} in June 2002, some members of rhe Anmedam chaprer of rhe Sociery found a female Sand Lizard wirhout any colour parrern. NEt-lES (2002) described rhis variery as `immaculara`. Th is kind of variery is somcrimes seen more ofren, bur is considered rare.
Borg, J.P. ter (2004) -
Reptiles and amphibians in Portugal The author spend two weeks in July 2002 in Beira, Portugal. The following observations were made: Vale de Asna (Serra do Açor): the sound of several Alytes obstreticans boscai (probably), several Tarentola mauritanica, one Podarcis hispanica type 1, many Psammodromus algirus, several Chalcides chalcides striatus, larvae of Rana iberica, Triturus marmoratus marmoratus, Triturus helveticus sequeirai and Triturus boscai, one adult Rana perezi, one dead Bufo bufo, three Natrix maura (half-grown and adult). Waterfall of Sobral (Serra do Açor): many Psam-modromus algirus, several larvae, juvenile and adult Rana iberica, many juvenile Bufo bufo. Pena (Serra da Lousã): several Psammodromus algirus. Mata da Margaraça (Serra do Açor): several Psam-modromus algirus, one Podarcis hispanica (probably). Fraga de Pena (Serra do Açor): several larvae and two adult Rana iberica, one Natrix maura (probably), several larvae and three adult Chioglossa lusitanica. Serra da Estrela: Near the top of mount Torre (between 1750 and 1993 m): many Iberolacerta monticola monticola, many larvae of Bufo species, many adult Rana perezi, one adult Rana iberica, one adult Hyla arborea molleri. Around 1200 m, one adult and one juvenile Timon lepidus, one adult Lacerta schreiberi. At 1600 m one juvenile Lacerta schreiberi. Between Piódão and Foz d’Égua (Serra do Açor): one half-grown Natrix natrix astreptophora, one juvenile Natrix maura (probably newly hatched), several Psammodromus algirus and one adult Malpolon monspessulanus. It is stated that Portugal is a very interesting place for spotting reptiles and amphibians in nature.
Borg, J.P. ter (2006) -
Common wall lizards are territorial animals. In the second week of October 2005, during sunny weather, basking Common wall lizards were found in the Jura and the Vosges (France). October 12 at 15.30 h, near Ammerswihr in the Jura, a large concentration of these animals (100-150) were seen basking on a dry-stone wall, 5 meter long and 1,5 meter high. At one very favourable spot more than 25 animals were lying side by side and on top of each other. It is suggested, that the animals were going to hibernate there as a group and showed themselves only because of the nice weather. It is highly unlikely that the animals stay there the whole year, given their territorial behaviour. In the spring they will probably scatter over the surrounding countryside. It is postulated that in this region there are only a few optimum hibernation-places and that there is a strong urge for the juveniles to find such a place. If they don’t succeed they will likely not survive the winter. On the other hand it is very favourable for the (sub)adults to return to the same hibernation-place as the previous winter. Both mechanisms would result in a limited number of hibernation-places with a high number of animals. This doesn’t have to be valid for the whole range. The price of migration in the autumn would be exposure to predators. In other areas there is possibly a greater number of good hibernation-places, so it would be more favourable not to migrate. A comparison is made with the hibernation in large groups of the North-American Timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus) and the Common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) in their northern ranges. In the literature not much was found concerning the observation described here, although a few inconclusive clues are available.
Borg, J.P. ter (2014) -
Borg, J.P. ter (2016) -
Borg, J.P. ter (2021) -
In 2015 the author found several lizards of this complex, of which he was not able to determine the correct spercies name. The males had no pattern (concolor), the females had the normal dorsolateral stripes for this group. The animals were quite small and slender. Consultation with some herpetologists did not provide more clarity. Five years later the author received an e-mail from one of them (GENIEZ, pers. comm.), that it was probably a Catalonian Wall lizard, Podarcis liolepis. Concolor morphs have been described for this species, but these animals are larger in size and occur much further north. However, genomic data have confirmed that there is a southern lineage, clearly P. liolepis, but distinct from the northern animals, that is smaller in size and more flattened.
Borg, J.P. ter & Bol. B.J. (1999) -
COMMON KESTREL CATCHES LIZARD In 1994 in rhe village of Zwaanshoek, muni- cipality of Haarlemmermeer, a female Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) was caught bij research-workers of rhe regional society for birds of prey and owls. The bird carried a female sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), rhat was obviously pregnant. After a few hours rhe lizard was presented ro one of rhe authors, which instantly removed rhe eggs, nine in total. None of the eggs turned out to be viable, probably due ro lack of oxygen in the hours after the lizard died. Common Kestrels mainly catch field-mice (Microtus arva!is) in this area, only in years when field-mice are less abundant, like in 1994, they switch over ro other prey, most ofren birds, especially young starlings (Sturnus vuLgaris). T he capture of a lizard is remarkable, since their hunringarea is in the near surroundings of their nest, the nearest place where it could possibly find lizards being ar a distance of three miles.
Borgula, A. & Bolzern-Tönz, H. (1999) -
Borisov, V.J. & Orlova, V.F. (1986) -
Borkenhagen, P. & Sudhaus, W. (1992) -
Borkin L.J. (2022) -
The book summarizes studies related to the herpetofauna of Kazakhstan that were carried out in the 18th century. The first fragmentary information on this topic refers to the middle of this century (J.G. Gmelin, P.I. Rychkov). The greatest scientific value were the results of the academic expeditions (P.S. Pallas, I.I. Lepekhin, S.G. Gmelin, J.P. Falk, J.G. Georgi, N.P. Rychkov) between 1768 and 1774, especially the field data obtained by P.S. Pallas. This information served as a basis for the inclusion of data on amphibians and reptiles inhabiting the territories of present-day Kazakhstan (mainly the western Caspian region) into foreign herpetological reviews on a global scale as well as the zoological manuals established by West- European naturalists (e.g., P.L.S. Müller, G.H. Borowski, B.-G.-É. Lacepède, P.-G. Bonnaterre, J.F. Gmelin, F.A. Меyer, J.A. Donndorff, G.A. Suckow, I. Schneider, J.M. Bechstein, W. Тurton). Тhese studies concluded with the first summaries of the herpetofauna of the Russian Empire compiled by J.G. Georgi (1801) as well as by P.S. Pallas in his “Zoographia Rosso-Asiatica” (1814). Short biographies of all mentioned authors are presented in this volume, and annotated lists of species they noted for Kazakhstan as well.
Л.Я. Боркин (2022) -
В книге анализируется изучение герпетофауны Казахстана в XVIII веке. Первые отрывочные сведения относятся к первой половине – середине этого столетия (И.Г. Гмелин, П.И. Рычков). Однако наибольшее научное значение имели результаты академических экспедиций 1768–1774 годов (П.С. Паллас, И.И. Лепёхин, С.Г. Гмелин, И.П. Фальк, И.Г. Георги, Н.П. Рычков), особенно полевые сведения, полученные П.С. Палласом. Они послужили основой для включения данных об амфибиях и рептилиях, обитающих на территории современного Казахстана (главным образом, его западной Прикаспийской части), в зарубежные герпетологические сводки мирового охвата и даже общеполезные зоологические руководства, составленные западноевропейскими натуралистами (Ф.Л.С. Мюллер, Г.Г. Боровский, Б.-Ж.-Э. Ласепед, П.-Ж. Бонатерр, И.Ф. Гмелин, Ф. Мейер, И. Донндорфф, Г.А. Зукков, И. Шнейдер, И. Бехштейн, У. Тёртон). Венчают эти исследования первая сводка по герпетофауне Российской империи И.Г. Георги (1801) и «Zoographia Rosso- Asiatica” П.С. Палласа (1814). Приведены краткие биографии авторов, а также аннотированные списки видов, отмеченных ими для Казахстана.
Borkin, L.J. (1986) -
Borkin, L.J. & Litvinchuk, S.N. & Rosano, Y.M. (1997) -
The hybrid Rana esculenta (diploid) is first recorded for Moldavia. Bombina variegata was previously confused with B. bombina, as well as Rana dalmatina was confused with the long-legged R. arvalis. The first confirmed locality of Lacerta vivipara is given. The occurrence of Eremias arguta in Moldavia is mentioned. The check-list of 12 species of amphibians and 15 species of reptiles of Moldavia is published.
Borkin, L.Ya. & Darevsky, I.S. (1987) -
Боркин Л.Я. & Даревский И.С. (1987) -
Börner, A.-R. (1974) -
Börner, A.-R. (1975) -
Börner, A.-R. (2014) -
Börner, A.-R. (2015) -
The area on the right bank of the Middle Rhine with the Lahn as the main tributary and the Rheingau is a German area rich in reptiles. 50 years of own observations in the area are summarized. The slowworm is widely distributed, while the common lizard is found on the heights and the sand lizard mostly in the valleys. The wall lizard is found in the valleys of the Middle Rhine and the Lahn up to the Limburg basin as well as in the Rheingau; it is not restricted to boulders and walls and has some dense populations which show a great variety. The Western emerald lizard is found only in a few places of the upper Middle Rhine valley; short-time concentrations, as can be observed in crows, lead to false conclusions about the population density. The protection of habitats and the exclusion of house cats and crows are absolutely essential for the conservation of this endangered lizard diversity.
Die Eidechsen im Lahn- und Rheintal gelten als seit Jahrzehnten gut erforscht: Neben der weit verbreiteten Blindschleiche sind Wald-, Zaun- und Mauereidechse und die westliche Smaragdeidechse zu finden. Wichtige, aktuelle Daten enthalten insbesondere die zweibändige Studie der Gesellschaft für Ornithologie und Naturschutz Rheinland.-Pfalz e.V über die Amphibien und Reptilien von Rheinland-Pfalz (1996, Britz et al. (Hrsg.)), die für Rheinland- Pfalz, und die Broschüre der Eheleute Braun (1995), die für den Naturpark Nassau, insbesondere den Rhein-Lahn-Kreis, die Beobachtungen der Vergangenheit zusammenfasst und den aktuellen Stand der Verbreitung wiedergibt. Dennoch erschließt die langjährige Beobachtung vor Ort, wie sie meine über fünfzigjährige Ferienasässigkeit in Bad Ems ermöglicht hat, zusätzliche Erkenntnisse. Das Gebiet der Beobachtungen umfasst im wesentlichen das Lahntal flußab von Limburg und die angrenzenden Mittelgebirge von Westerwald (nördlich) und Taunus (südlich) sowie das rechte Mittelrheintal, vor allem das obere Mittelrheintal (von Koblenz bis Bingen/Rüdesheim), und den angrenzenden Rheingau (von Rüdesheim bis Wiesbaden) (Abb. 1).
Börner, A.-R. (2017) -
The emerald lizard reaches the northern limit of its distribution in the upper Middle Rhine Valley and has stringent, narrow requirements for its habitat. In the last years, habitats, populations, and the number of individuals have been in decline, mainly because of eutrophy and suboptimal grazing in the protected areas as well as an increasing civilization pressure (including domestic cats, tourists, and presumably poachers), less by the rationalized viticulture. The mere protection of the few remaining habitats is not sufficient. It is necessary to restore the historical habitats and to release captive-bred specimens there. A special initiative for the protection of the green lizards in the upper Middle Rhine Valley is required.
Börner, A.-R. (2019) -
Hardenberg Castle north of Göttingen, Germany harbours two introduced species of wall lizard, the Eurpean Wall Lizard Podarcis muralis brogniardii and the Catalonian Wall Lizards Podarcis liolepis. The genetic study by Schulte et al. (2012a) has found that the European Wall Lizards belong the the Western France clade and that the Catalonian Wall Lizards come from near Girona in NE Spain, thus representing the nominal subspecies, and that the import was from the Eastern central Pyrenees. A visit to the locality in October 2019 throws some doubt on this, as both species seem to be mixed up from various sources, the new populations being harder to distinguish fom each other than their natural ancestors in case of syntopy. It is suggested that there have been two sources for each species, namely that the European Wall Lizards are a mixture with animals of the Eastern France clade, and the Catalonian Wall Lizards have been mixed with specimens from the Northwestern Pyrenees belonging to the subspecies sebastiani. Observations on behaviour, habitat preference, and relative abundance of the species are also reported, and the criteria for distinction of the two species at Hardenberg castle are tested.
The 2015 strip clearing of forest in a width of 50 m along a south-bound hill enabled the population of the domestic wall lizard (Podarcis muralis brongniardii), which was isolated in a former quarry due to a spreading of forest, to regain by 2019 the full length of 1.2 km of the clearing. Progress was measured by determining the most distant resident male. This example is important for the connection of stepstone habitats via corridors.
Börner, A.-R. (2020) -
In view of the import of allochthonous clades of the Common Wall Lizard Podarcis muralis into Germany, the Mainz Basin presents an interesting situation. Rhineland-Palatinate and Hessen have the indigenous subspecies brongniardii, Eastern France clade. It is restricted to the hill areas. On the south bank of the Rhine in the Mainz Basin it has its southernmost locality at Bingen-Gaulsheim. On the north bank its distribution in the Mainz Basin becomes spottier towards the East, because the south-facing slopes of the Rheingau get less and less steep; along the Rhine the contingent distribution area ends near Oestrich-Winkel. Some 30 km east of Gaulsheim, the Mainz-Budenheim quarry and its vicinity harbour the subspecies brongniardii, Western France clade. This is due to a relocation in 2007-2009 from the “llmenauer Aue”, a railway track habitat in central Mainz along the lower Gonsbach creek. The Ilmenauer Aue and the adjacent industrial park near the freight harbour have been under substantial construction, but some lizards can still be found in the area. The wall lizards of the south embankment of the harbour peninsula near the harbour entry have a yellow brown basic dorsal colouration, which may have given rise to the buckskin type of colouration and pattern which may be observed in the Budenheim quarry. East of the quarry and its vicinity, the lizards are found at Budenheim in the gardens of Kreuzer Hof, a small settlement on the Rhine. As some lizards of the relocation effort may not have arrived in the quarry, they may have been released in supposedly suitable habitats. This rather than rafting with the Rhine currents may explain their suspected mixing with the indigenous clade on the opposite, northern bank of the Rhine in two locations: - the wall along the towing path between Eltville and Walluf (east of Oestrich-Winkel), where they form a large population, which is basically tied to the wall, and has expanded neither into the city of Eltville nor into the Rheingau hills of the hinterland nor into the eastern part of Walluf; - the Rhine embankment of Mainz-Kastel (near Theodor-Heuss bridge), where they drive the Eastern France clade into the shadier areas, particularly those on the edge of the distribution area; the Western France clade has spread to the nearby railway tracks, southeast at least to Mainz-Kastel railway station. While the protected meadowlands of the Schierstein water works on the Rhine east of Walluf are without lizards, a small population of wall lizards exists at Schierstein harbour entry and the eastern end of the harbour. Predominantly these lizards show the characters of the indigenous Eastern France clade, but sporadic Western France clade influence cannot be excluded. In the southeast of Wiesbaden, in the lower portion of a south-facing slope of a former, now long abandoned vineyard, there is the Cyperus population of wall lizards. It stems from imports mainly from Northern Italy before, during and shortly after WW I. It is said to have extended to the Dyckerhoff quarries in the northwest, to the Erbenheim cemetary and its vicinity in the north where it is now extinct due to the harsher uphill climate and a lack of unshaded vertical structures, and to the allotment gardens in the east while elsewise being surrounded by impenetrable fields and woods. This population is dominated by the subspecies maculiventris, Southern Alps clade. In the main population the green dorsum, which characteristic of the subspecies nigriventris, has been reduced to yellow spots; this is explained by the eutrophy in the main new habitat. However, the green colour still exists in some rare individuals and especially in the Hessler farm subpopulation Most other locality reports for wall lizards at least in the Wiesbaden area are erroneous; they are based on juvenile sand lizards; the sand lizard Lacerta a. agilis is common in the Mainz Basin. The morphology and behaviour of the three main wall lizard clades in the Mainz basin (ssp. brongniadii, Eastern Facne clade and Western France clade, as well as ssp. maculiventris) are compared in order to facilitate recognition in the field and to substantiate the lack of substantial threat for the indigenous lizard fauna. The special temperature and habitat requirements as well as the lack of inherited specific threat avoidance techniques (beyond avoiding the flood-prone areas) of the southern clades of the Common Wall Lizard restrict them to a spotty distribution in Germany.
The protected Area „Engerser Feld“ ist part of the Neuwied basin between the Upper and the Lower Middle Rhine Valley. On the shore of the Rhine, the village-enclosed „Engerser Feld“ is charcteeized by agricultural use and sand and gravel quarries. In the ensuing man-made habitats, there are European Wall Lizards (Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768). Some lizards of the subspecies brongniardii came from the surrounding hills with stone transportation by carriage and truck, mainly in the second half of the last century, and some dispersed along the railroad line; in xeric habitat, which was enlarged by the tearing down of buildings and paved storage areas, they live in flat areas, but prefer little loamy or sandy slopes where the usually light brown or light gray lizards tend to a more yellowish coloration. In the xeric areas, these lizards replace the Sand Lizard (Lacerta a. agilis Linnaeus 1758), which used to be the only lacertid in the area, but prefers a less sunny and more mesic habitat,. On a southern-oriented, partly unshaded bulwark wall, a southern clade (Southern Alps clade) of the Wall Lizard (subspecies maculiventris) has established a small population. These lizards prefer a vertical structure as a center habitat and only forages into flat areas. They need a higher temperature for activity (about two centigrades). In spite oft he last warm summers, the wall now shows individuals with a darker coloration (ground colour and markings); they heat up more easily especially in spring and fall, and they have driven the individuals with lighter coloration into less favorable habitats. Both subspecies are in contact, but mix only slowly, maybe due to their different preferred activity temperatures.
Börner, A.-R. (2021) -
The Neuwied basin is part of a basin situated between the Upper and the Lower Middle Rhine Valley. There has been a previous report on the wall izards of the Engerser Field, an enclosed nature protection area situated near the Rhine. It has the indigeneous sand lizard Lacerta a. agilis as well as the indigeneous, but immigrated wall iizard Podarcis muralis brogniardii (Eastern France genetic lineage) and the introduced foreign genetic line Podarcis muralis maculiventris (West, South Alps lineage), all of which are ecologically separated and compete only where their preferred habitats meet. Last winter, the Rhine had a high flood, as it happens irregularly, and this has reduced mainly the Italian population and eliminated the southern zone of hybridization. Furthermore, a population of wall lizards the Urmitz railroad bridghe over the Rhine has a slightly different colouration than the typical indigeneous lizards. This population seems to have been influenced by the Western France genetic lineage of P.m. brongniardii. A look at the railroad system and ist vicinities in the Neuwied basin revealed a morphology and ethology of the wall lizards indicating two introductions. The French lineage came in 2012 to the north of Vallendar (along with new vinestocks from Burgundy) and at an unknown date to the Rasselstein industrial areain the East of Neuwied; from this latter area, hybrids with the indigeneous Eastern French lineage were exported with machinery to various spots in the Neuwied basin, amongst them the princely lands at Sayn. More prominently, the North Italian wall lizard P.m. maculiventris, Southern Alps lineage has invaded the central Neuwied railway station in recent times, obviously as a stowaway in freight traffic. Hybridizing with the indigeneous lineage, the Italian llzards have spread eastwards along the railway track and into its southern neighbourhood up to the track triangle for the Urmitz bridge offshoot; this has happened mainly in the last five years at an estimated rate of 3/4 km p.a. The hills as well as the southernmost and northern areas of Neuwied as well as on the opposite, left bank of the Rhine continue to have the indigeneous Podarcis muralis brogniardii (Eastern France genetic lineage).
In the Cologne area, wall lizards (Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768)) have mainly spread along the railway belt and its offshoots into industrial areas. These lizards can mainly be identified as the subspecies Podarcis muralis maculiventris (Werner, 1891), obviously belonging to the West Alps mitochondrial gene group, which normally occurs around the Italian great lakes area on the southern rim of the Alps and is differentiated from the Venetian line by the presence of a blackish vertebral line or row of spots. The original point of introduction cannot be verified with certainty; they may have been introduced with Italian vegetables into the vegetable market in the south of left-bank Cologne; early reports on a first introduction into right-bank Deutz harbour along with building materials, especially stones and marbles from Italy, cannot be ascertained today, as the immediate harbour area does not have any lizards, and lizards occuring on railway tracks south of the southern tip of the harbour may have arrived from the tracks near the vegetable market. On the left bank of the Rhine, a few lizards show the colouration of Podarcis muralis nigriventris Bonaparte, 1836 from Tuscany, viz. dorsally and laterally a strong blackish pattern on a green basic coulour in males and a dense black spotting on throat and vent in both sexes. It cannot be ascertained whether the hybridization with the prevalent maculiventris-type has occurred already in an area of intergradation in Northern Italy or after deplacement of both types in the Cologne area. These hybrid lizards have been found on the left bank of the Rhine in Cologne and just south of the city which indicates a late arrival of the (pure or hybridized) Tuscany genome. On the right bank of the Rhine the colouration of the P.m. nigriventris type is even rarer and, if existing at all, is usually dorsally reduced to a yellow spotting. The North Italian lizards may have met with wall lizards of the German subspecies Podarcis muralis brongniardii (Daudin, 1802), Eastern mitochondrial gene group, which were transported into the area from the lower Middle Rhine valley, where they have resp. have had their traditional northern range limit in Bonn, some 30 km south of Cologne. It seems that hybridization between maculiventris and brongniardii has mainly occurred on the right bank of the Rhine at Gremberghoven. The North Italian lizards have spread from southern left-bank Cologne southwards into the Cologne suburbs and into northern parts of Bonn (near its northern railway tracks). Bonn Botanical Garden has a population of the indigeneous German line; the founder animals have deliberately been introduced from the Ahr valley, the Ahr being a left-bank contributary to the Rhine river. South of the Botanical Garden, the left bank of the Rhine has thin populations of the indigeneous line as well. Wall lizards from the southeastern right-bank Cologne have spread southwards down to Troisdorf. The connection of the Troisdorf populations with Cologne populations has been interrupted by the recent upgrading of the railway tracks. Further south, the indigeneous wall lizard has a spotty distribution at its northern range limit.
Börner, A.-R. (2022) -
For the improvement and the recreation of lizard habitats, the habitat requirements are is of foremost importance. The habitats of today for the West German lizards (the Slow Worm, the Common Lizard, the European Wall Lizard, the Sand Lizard, and the Emerald Lizards) are analysed and shown in photos for clarity. On this basis, the planning and the realization of habitats as well as typical mistakes are discussed.
Börner, A.-R. (2024) -
Comments on the possible causes of observed green backs in wall lizards in Rhineland-Palatinate.
Börner, A.-R. & Haas, H. (2024) -
Kestert is a village on the right bank of the Rhine in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. At the river bend it extends to a south-faced steep rocky slope of more than 200 meters, where in March 2021 a substantial (15k tons) rock slide occurred which covered not just the road and the tracks but also the western end of the habitat of the Western Emerald Lizard as well as of the Common Wall Lizard, both being legally protected species. In the area, the Western Emeral Lizard is the more susceptible species as it is living here on the north rim of its distribution. The land is managed by the German Railways. After a field visit by naturalists and herpetologists in June 2021 the buried land has been restructured meticulously with a view to technical necessities and the utmost conservation of untouched areas as well as the restoration of the buried sites into well-structured, locally adapted structures carrying local rock and local vegetation. For a rock slide capturing basin, there is now a dry south slope and a moister east slope which runs parallel to a non-perennual creek, which had to be carefully excavated. The measues have been very successful with wall lizards on the south and emerald lizards on the east slopes. The first emerald lizard juveniles have been found venturing towards the east slope in late summer 2023, and in spring 2024 the first adults have extended their territories into the east slope, all originating from neighbouring lands in the north and the east. In spring 2024 the first adult pair of wall lizards was seen in the south slope, obviously originating from the East-running railway tracks. Due to the conservation of vegetation and the speedy and insect-friendly re-vegetation, both species have invaded their sites one year earlier than expected. The original landscape, the slide and the restoration of the site as well as the lizards from the site are shown in the figures, and the plants are listed in the tables.
Boroumad, H. & Saberi-Pirooz, R. & Shafiei Bafti, S. & Böhme, W. & Ahmadzadeh, F. (2024) -
Mesalina watsonana is a well-known species of small lacertid lizards with an extensive species distribution that exhibits high genetic diversity. The species has a wide distribution range in Iran, some parts of Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northwest India. This study aims to generate phylogenetic and phylogeographic evidence to derive taxonomic recommendations supporting. Furthermore, this species can be used as a model for examining Iranian Platuea`s historical biogeography. We conducted a very detailed sampling of its distribution and used genetic approaches. Phylogenetic analyses were done implementing two mitochondrial (Cytb and 16S) and one nuclear (C-mos) gene fragments. Combination of these results indicated that seven well-supported distinct clades exist within this species complex, i.e. Kerman clade, Esfarayen clade, Halil clade, Ardestan clade, M. watsonana clade, Bardaskan Clade, and Khuzestan Clade in Iran. Also, our results revealed that several distinct clades diverged due to geologic events when the Dasht-e-Kavir and the Zagros Mountains were formed. It seems that the ancestor of M. watsonana spread to Iranian Plateau before the formation of the Zagros Mountains. Orogenic activities of the Zagros Mountains and the formation of deserts have influenced the separation of these lineages from the Late Miocene by allopatric speciation. Generally, our findings suggest that each of the seven clades corresponding to distinct geographic regions deserves to be elevated to the species level.
Boroumand, H. & Bafti, S.S. & Saberi-Pirooz, R. & Böhme, W. & Ahmadzadeh, F. (2024) -
Mesalina watsonana is a species complex with a wide distribution range in Iran, some parts of Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northwest India. Recent molecular and morphological investigations detected remarkable hidden diversity among the geographical populations of the complex, more likely referring to the persistence of undescribed species. In this study, we conducted a very detailed sampling of localities and carried out a morphological study to investigate populations within the complex. Investigation of morphological features within the M. watsonana species complex indicated that it consists of seven distinct populations. They include the West-Southeast-South, East-Northeast, East Dasht-e Kavir, West Dasht-e Kavir, and two central groups (Halil and Kerman groups). Considering our findings, each of the seven populations corresponding to distinct geographic regions should be recognized as species. The six new species include Mesalina khuzestanensis sp. nov., Mesalina halilica sp. nov., Mesalina kermanensis sp. nov., Mesalina ardestanica sp. nov., Mesalina bardaskanensis sp. nov., Mesalina esfarayensis sp. nov. which are distinctive from each other due to their unique morphological characteristics.
Borràs Tejedor, R. (2003) -
Extensive studie on the natural values of Illa de l`Aire and proposals for conservation.
Borrás, A. & Polls, M. (1987) -
The eastern Pre-Pyrenees were prospected using 5x5 UTM square from 1974 to 1986. Nineteen reptiles were found. Their geographical and altimetric distribution is given, and its corology discussed taking into account other data from the Pyrenees. The topoclimatical effects and the particular disposition of the mountain range, are the key factors to understand the corology and the altimetric distribution of herpetofauna. The study area shows mediterranean elements as well as Pyrenean and mid-european ones. Cerdaña basin acts as a bndge between the herpetofauna from France and the more meridional species from Spain. The Segre nver divides the Pre-Pyrenees in two big biogeographical areas: the eastem one very close to axial Pyrenees and characterized by boreal and the western one with a more mediterranean faunistic elements.
Borrell, L. & Stasio, R. de & Motta, C.M. & Parisi, E. & Filosa, S. (2000) -
The study of environmental factors affecting vertebrate reproduction has long interested both developmental and evolutionary biologists. Although photoperiod has been considered to be an important environmental parameter for vertebrates such as birds, temperature is probably a primary external factor responsible for reproductive cyclicity in reptiles. In spite of the progress made in the understanding of reptilian reproductive strategies and adaptations, much remains to be learned about the interplay between endocrine physiological factors, such as hormones, and environmental parameters. In this report, we have examined the effects of in vivo administered FSH on oocyte recruitment during the most significant periods of the reproductive cycle of the lizard, Podarcis sicula. The results show that when FSH is administered in proximity to the reproductive period, it stimulates oocyte growth and ovulation; when the hormone is administered at the beginning of the winter stasis it affects ovarian activity without inducing ovulation. Ovarian adenylate cyclase activity is moderately sensitive to in vitro FSH stimulation during the pre- and post-reproductive periods. The sensitivity to hormone stimulation increases significantly during the reproductive period and winter stasis. We have also tested the hypothesis that environmental temperature affects the responsiveness of ovarian adenylate cyclase to FSH stimulation. For such a purpose, we exposed animals to 28° C or 4° C in different periods of the ovarian cycle. The results show that, whenever the temperature applied mimics the thermal regime of the coming season, adenylate cyclase sensitivity to FSH shifts towards levels that anticipate the natural responsiveness.
Borrelli, L. & Stasio, R. de & Parisi, E. & Filosa, S. (2001) -
The present paper reports the full nucleotide sequence of a cloned cDNA prepared from RNA of lizard ovaries. The open reading frame consists of 2019 nucleotides, which encodes a protein of 673 amino acids belonging to the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily with a large extracellular N-terminal domain involved in hormone recognition. The transmembrane domain ends with a short intracytoplasmic COOH-terminal domain involved in effector activation. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the lizard receptor belongs to the family of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptors. The hydrophobicity profile is similar to that observed for mammalian and avian FSH receptors. Northern blot analysis of total RNA revealed that the FSH receptor is expressed at high levels in the ovary. In situ hybridization experiments demonstrate that FSH receptor mRNA is specifically localized within the small cells of the follicular epithelium surrounding the oocyte.
Borrelli, L. & Stasio, R. de & Filosa, S. & Parisi, E. & Riggio, M. & Scudiero, R. & Trinchella, F. (2006) -
Borri, M. & Agnelli, P. & Cesaraccio, G. & Corti, C. & Finotello, P.L. & Lanza, B. & Tosini, G. (1988) -
Borsuk-Bialynicka, M. & Lubka, M. & Böhme, W. (1999) -
An almost complete lizard specimen discovered from the Baltic amber of middle Eocene age is described and considered conspecific with the first Baltic amber lizard Succinilacerta succinea (Boulenger, 1917). The new specimen demonstrates that the typical lacertid morphotype was fully developed by the middle Eocene. This is in conflict with a possible derivation of all the extant lacertids from a common ancestor of no earlier than Oligocene age based on the recent albumin-immunological and karyologic analyses using molecular clock methodology. Outgroup analysis of the lacertid pileus characters is applied to reconstruct the order and rate of appearance of character states during the pre-Oligocene section of phylogeny of the lacertid clade theoretically beginning by about the Late Jurassic. Two synapomorphies are proposed for the whole lacertid clade, including Eocene Plesiolacerta: frontoparietal scales largely overlapping the parietal table with a corresponding central position of the interparietal, and presence of the occipital. Plesiolacerta is the only stem lacertid known. Succinilacerta is considered a member of the crown lacertids on the basis of two other synapomorphies: an integration of parietal scales and a development of early ontogenetic control of the pileus pattern. Parietal integrity is suggested to be sensitive to animal size. Pileus fragmentation may be primary or secondary.
Bos, J. (2014) -
Bosat, B. (1997) -
Between March and October 1992 the herpetofauna of the municipality Much was surveyed qualitatively and semiquantitatively on the basis of a square-kilometregrid-map. 9 species of amphibians and 3 species of reptiles were recorded: Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra terrestris), alpine newt (Triturus a. alpestris), smooth newt (Triturus v. vulgaris), palmate newt (Triturus h. helveticus), midwife toad (Alytes o. obstetricans), common toad (Bufo b. bufo), common tree frog (Hyla a. arborea), grass frog (Rana t. temporaria), edible frog (Rana kl. esculenta), pool frog (Rana lessonae); viviparous lizard (Zootoca v. vivipara), slow worm (Anguis f. fragilis) and grass snake (Natrix n. natrix and Natrix n. Helvetica). The distribution of these species is compared with the Situation in Nortrhine-Westphalia (NRW). Grass frog, common toad, alpine newt, smooth newt, viviparous lizard, slow worm and grass snake were widespread and had locally large populations in the municipality Much. The species edible frog, common tree frog, midwife toad and palmate newt were considered to be rare in this area, because only isolated and very small populations exist. The fire Salamander is abundant in the West of the area along the Naaf and Wahn stream valleys, whereas it is absent in the Northeast and the South. The yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata) is considered to be extinct. In contrast to similar studies the amphibians spawned more often in ponds stocked with fish, leading to the conclusion that there is a lack of small water bodies in the investigated area. The loss of this kind of water body, beside the eutrophy caused by fish and cattle breeding, is considered to be the most important threatening factor for the herpetofauna.
Bosbach, G. & Weddeling, K. (2005) -
Boscá, E. (1877) -
Bosca, E. (1880) -
Boscá, E. (1883) -
Boscá, E. (1916) -
Boscá. E. (1881) -
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1983) -
Courtship and aggressive behaviour of Algyroides moreoticus in captivity are described for the first time. The breeding season commences in March. A female produces five to seven clutches per year, each containing one to four eggs. These hatch in about 36 days at 29°C and 99 % relative humidity. The young reproduce for the first time in the following spring. In comparison with available behavioural data of other European lacertids Algyroides moreoticus displays two unusual traits. For up to three hours after copulation the mouth grip by the male on the female´s flank is maintained. During fighting between males one of the pair is suddenly flipped over on its back where it is immobilised by the neck for some time.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1985) -
Captive breeding of Algyroides nigropunctatus is reported. It behaves rather shy and is easily disturbed. Observations on courtship are limited to six complete sessions of three different couples. Precopulatory behaviour consists of the usual lacertid tail-biting of about 30 seconds. Next he secures a flankhold, which takes 20 seconds. Copulation of 40 seconds follows. After this he does not release the female. During this post-copulatory bite, the male´s head will make jerking movements, somewhat resembling chewing. After a few minutes the female bites in his head for about ten minutes. Hereby the pair haltingly moves in circles. The female will eventually let go of the male´s head. Several minutes later he releases the female. The breeding season indoors lasts from the end of March till the end of July. In this period two to five batches of three to six eggs are laid. Eggs measure 6.7 x 10.7 mm. At 25°C as well as at 29°C and 99 % relative humidity these grow to 11.3 x 15.8 mm. They hatch after 43-45 days at 25°C and after 35-37 days at 29°C. Newly hatched juveniles measure 22.4 + 43.1 mm (snout-vent + tail length). None of the eggs hatched at room temperature (18-22°C). Growth curves of the young are presented: the females have a distinctly shorter tail. The colour of the juveniles is described as is the seasonal change in colour. The species reproduces before ist is one year old and not yet full-grown.
Observations for five consecutive years on Algyroides nigropunctatus kept in an outdoor enclosure, are reported. The lizards showed a high degree of seasonal colour-matching with their environment. A clear patterning was established in seasonal and daily behaviour routines. Mating took place from the end of April until the beginning of August. In this period the male was much more active than the female, which related territoriality and sexual behaviour. His moving about was usually confined to distinct paths. Per year three to four clutches were laid between the beginning of May and the end of August. Juveniles hatched only once, after an incubation of presumably 55 days. Both in early spring and in late autumn, they retired from sight before the rays of the sun left the terrarium. In general, behaviour was strongly positively correlated with the amount of sunshine. However, in July and August daily activity was bimodal because of high noon-temperature. The female started hibernation at the end of October; the male about two weeks later. They emerged after five and four months respectively. The male was early, probably because of physiological and territorial reproductive advantages.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1986) -
The food in nature of 42 Algyroides fitzingeri from Sardinia was determined by analysis of their faecal pellets. This method, as compared to identification of stomach contents, is briefly discussed. The main categories were formed by Arachnida and Coleoptera, a smaller portion consisted of Diptera, Blattaria and Homoptera. A relation with the availability and palatability of food items in their habitat, is suggested.
Reproductive behaviour in Psammodromus hispanicus and Psammodromus algirus is pictu- red. P. hispanicus males grasp the dorsal skin of the females with their jaws during copula- tion of 40 s; males of P. algirus seize the females in the side of the neck and copulate for 8 min. Oviposition of both species is described. Dimensions of eggs, and duration of incu- bation and measurements of juvenile P. hispanicus are given. Specimens of the latter species are sexually mature within the year. In captivity they may live for three years or more. The change of juvenile colouration into adult pattern of P. hispanicus is reported. Rhythmical snout pushing as an expression of submissive behaviour; head shaking to ward off threats; and fights between males are described for P. hispanicus.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1987) -
In Sardinia the small Algyroides fitzingeri proved to be a very active species, shuttling between areas of high and low insolation. This is explained by its high surface to mass ratio. In the field, sexual activity seems to start in early May and it may last till the end of June. Indoors, following hibernation from December till March, it was observed from the second decade of March until the end of May. Courtship display adheres to the usual lacertid pattern, and may take about 30 seconds. Once the flank hold is ascertained, a copulation of about 100 seconds will follow. The flank hold outlasts copulation for almost half an hour. During this period the male jerks his head laterally and his tail vibrates at varying intensity. In captivity, three ovipositions per female, each with two eggs, were recorded inMay and June. The first oviposition in Sardinia was observed on May 18; egg-laying is assumed to last well into Juli. Eggs measure 5.6 x 9.7 mm and weigh 0.18 g. Eggs incubated at 25°C, as well as those kept at room temperature (19-25°C), and 99 % relative humidity, grow to 8.9 x 14.3 mm and 0.74 g. Hatchlings appear after 51 and 92 days respectively and measure 20+35 mm and weigh 0.21 g. The gradual transition into the non sex-dependent adult colouration is described. An intensively coloured blue throat was only seen in specimens preserved in alcohol. In captivity at least some A. fitzingeri attain adulthood within a year.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1989) -
Courtship of Lacerta mosorensis, after the usual preliminaries with a short `chase` and tail-biting, consists of a flank-hold of the female and a copu- lation of abQut 15 minutes. Three minutes after intromission 35 (on average) lumbal pushing motions by the male were recorded: one about every two seconds, in a somewhat decreasing frequency. At 25 oc the eggs need just 31 days to hatch. At the moment of oviposition the embryos have at least reached stage 30 in their develop- ment, i.e. one week ahead of many other Euro- pean lizard species. Egg sizes and measurements on one juvenile are reported. But for the dark turquoise tail, which colour disappeared within a month, the young resembled its parents.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1990) -
After hibernation from November till February/March, courtship of Algyroides marchi was observed in captivity from the second week of March until the end of May, beginning of June. The usual lacertid pre-copulatory display of about one minute which involved a tail bite, was followed by a flankhold on the female near a hind leg. Copulation can last from one to 22 minutes; seven minutes on average. Genital contact ended shortly after the male released his bite. In contrast to the other Algyroides species, no post-ovipositions per female, each clutch with one to three eggs, was recorded from the end of April till the end of June. Eggs measured 5.7 x 10.6 mm and weighed 0.20 g. Incubated at 25°C and 29°C (99 % relative himidity) these grew to 9.9 x 14.7 mm and 0.87 g. Hatchlings appeared after 49 and 34 days respectively, measured 22 + 37 mm, weighed 0.31 g, and resembled their parewnts but for the darker extremities and greywhite ventral surface. Adult dimensions were reached within four months, and they were sexually mature in their first spring. Measurements on a field sample of juveniles from the Sierra de Cazorla in October 1986 strongly suggested three ovipositions also in the field. The leg movements in the behavioural pattern Treteln (head-bobbing + front-leg lifting) are rarely performed. A relation with the species´ saxicolous nature (it even walks upside down on the underside of rocks) on which all four legs are needed for grip, is tempting. A. marchi seemed to prefer humid environments, possibly caused by competitions pressure: in dry terraria no problems were encountered. Lack of rainfall in their habitats as in recent years could therefore be a greater threat than the increase in tourist developments in the area.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1991) -
In comparison with other palearctic lizards with 40 days at 29° C and 54 days at 25° C, the incuba- tion period of Podarcis (Teira) perspici/lata takes much longer: 62 days and 87 days respectively. Podarcis (Teira) dugesii and Lacerta cappadocica have similar long durations. Possibly the young tide over the long, dry summer in the egg. The strong egg-shell is illustrated. The egg growth of P. perspicillata - as that of other palearctic li- zards - does not show a resting stage. Using data of 26 species bred under identical conditions, the possible existence of temperature optima - or temperatures in the natural habitats to which the eggs are adapted for the development of the em- bryos is investigated. Between 25-29° C a change of 1o C leads to a 3,5 days change in incubation period. P. perspicil/ata at 25° C takes 31,6 days · longer than average. An increase of9° Cis needed to lead to the average duration. An `optimum` temperature for P. perspici/lata eggs is thus deter- mined to be 34° C.
Podarcis tiliguerta were observed on a dry hillside in the Gennargentu mountains, Sardinia, in July 1989, where they aggregated around tiny springlets, their only source of water. In this uncommon situation the lizards repeatedly rubbed their cloacas with quick lateral undulating hindbody movements against the substrate, their tail bases raised vertically and their hindlegs stretched dorsolaterally. These movements are interpreted as submissive behaviour derived from and substituting Treteln (head bobbing and frontleg lifting); the latter behaviour impossible to perform here for practical reasons. The interpretation a s displacement activity is ruled out. A female Lacerta laevis, observed later in captivity, showed both forms of Treteln, the normal one changing into the newly described movements. This reinforces the suggestion of homology between the action pattern Treteln and the cloacal rubbing of P. tiliguerta. Rubbing of the cloaca known from courting male tejids, is only in appearance somewhat similar.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1992) -
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1993) -
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1994) -
The only known recent locality of Gallotia simonyi near Frontera on Hierro, Canary Islands, was visited at the end of March. At this time of the year the vegetation has only just started to develop. A list is provided of recognized and potential food plants for this mainly vegetarian species. Remarkably, most of these are ligneous and seem to have a low nutritional value. However, recent work indicates that later in the year the herbaceous plant Psoralea bituminosa is the major food item in the diet of adults. The leguminosid plant was only just budding on the rock face in March. A strong sea wind combined with frequently overcast skies made the area inhabited by this species, 300-500 m on the south-west facing exposed cliff, although ambient temperature there ranged between 12 and 32°C. The annual active period of G. simonyi extends from the end of March to early autumn, when the lizards gradually start hibernating. Peak activity occurs in early summer. Ever at this time the animals appear lethargic and they are very shy; this may be an energy saving tactic due to the harsh conditions. Mating lasts a few minutes with the male biting in the side of the female´s neck, as is common in Gallotia. Oviposition in the study area occurs between 29 May and 30 July. On only one occasion did a female produce two clutches in one year, the second of which did not survive long. The first clutch of young females typically usually lay twelve eggs on average, fifteen being the maximum recorded. Soon after the moment of laying, the size of the eggs ranges between 19-21x26-31 mm. Incubation takes 60-70 days at 29°C. A constraint on population growth could be the scarcity of suitable oviposition sites.
Der einzige bekannte rezente Standort von Gallotia simonyi, nahe Frontera auf Hierro, Kanarische Inseln, wurde Ende März besucht. Zu dieser Jahreszeit hat die Vegetation gerade begonnen, sich zu entwickeln. Eine Liste der erkannten hauptsächlichen Futterpflanzen dieser überwiegend vegetarischen Art wird vorgestellt. Außergewöhnlich ist, daß die meisten von ihnen verholzt sind und scheinbar einen geringen Nährwert haben. Neuere Arbeiten belegen jedoch, daß später im Jahr die krautige Pflanze Psoralea bituminosa der bedeutendste Nahrungsposten der erwachsenen Tiere ist. Dieser Hülsenfrüchter war im März in der Felswand nur knospend. Strenger Seewind, kombiniert mit häufig bewölktem Himmel, ist charakteristisch für den Lebensraum dieser Art, 300-500 m hoch gelegen an einer nach Südwesten exponierten offenen Felswand, mit kühlen Umgebungstemperaturen zwischen 12 und 32°C. Die jährliche Aktivitätsperiode von G. simonyi erstreckt sich von Ende März bis zum frühen Herbst, wo die Eidechsen allmählich mit der Winterruhe beginnen. Der Höhepunkt der Aktivität liegt im Sommer. In dieser Zeit erscheinen die Tiere of lethargisch, und sie sind sehr scheu. Dies scheint eine energiesparende Taktik gegenüber der rauhen Umwelt zu sein. Die Paarung, mit einem seitlichen Biß des Männchens in den Nacken des Weibchens, dauert einige Minuten und ist Gallotia-typisch. Die Eiablage findet in der untersuchten Gegend zwischen dem 29. Mai und 30. Juli statt. Ein Weibchen zeitigte zwei Gelege in einem Jahr, wovon das 2. Gelege nicht lange überlebte. Das 1. Gelege von jungen Weibchen besteht normalerweise aus 4 Eiern, während ältere Weibchen üblicherweise durchschnittlich 12 Eier legen; 15 Eier sind als Maximum dokumentiert. Kurz nach der Ablage sind die Eier 19-21x26-31 mm groß. Die Inkubation dauert 60-70 Tage bei 29°C. Eine Beschränkung des Populationswachstums kann die Knappheit geeigneter Eiablageplätze sein.
Near Ayoun Assiman (Sannin Mountains) Lacerta fraasii was relatively abundant with at least one individual per 30 m2 Among melting snow patches most animals were found close to, or in the Astralagus bushes growing on the stony slopes, which they often shared with one or more Mabuya vittata. Temperatures ranged from near freezing to 25,8°C. Since snow covers the area again in October, the lizards have an active season of maximally six months. Analysis of faecal pellets revealed a varied diet, with spiders and beetles as main components. The calm L, fraasii adapt easily to life in terraria and prove to be surprisingly active diggers, although they also climb well. High teperatures are avoided.
Based on observations at a previously unsurveyed locality at 1950 m in ahitude in the Sannin Mountains (Ayoun Assiman). Lacerta fraasii proved to he much more abundant than was previously assumed. A conservative pre- liminary estimate is one lizard per 30m! in this area. although the density is probably much higher. The tirst observations were made May 9th between 8h30 and 12h00. during which time 23 animals were caught and measured: the first just after 9h00. Most lizards were found close to, or in, the very prickly, cushion-like Astralagus bushes that grow on the stony slopes. Each bush appeared to be inhabited by at least two L. fraasii, and often also by one or more Mahuya vittata. In general, vegetation was very scarce. The snow had just started to melt, and some animals sunned themselves only centimetres away from the snow. Tem- peratures ranged from slightly above freezing early in the morning, to 10.4oc in the shade and 25.8°C in the sun around noon. Presuma- bly the lizards had very recently come out of hibernation, as also indicated by the higher number of males (13), in comparison to females (8) and subadults (2). Because snow begins to fall again in October, the lizards have an active season of six months or less. An analysis of faecal pellets revealed a remarkably varied diet of arthropods in early spring, however spiders and beetles were the main components. Although lateral spots appear blue in alcohol-preserved specimens, and are report- ed as such in the literature, most spots have an unmistakable green tinge and the smaller posterior ones are often yellow on living males. The greenish-blue spots are frequently paler or missing on females. Both sexes may be yellow or white ventrally. A bright band of green and yellow with black spots occurs in the transition zone between the dorsals and ventrals of males. Males reach a longer head-body length (55 nun) than females (51 mm). Male tail lengths were also longer (105 mm) than those of females (76 mm). Lebanese mountain lizards maintained in terraria are calm and not overly shy. They are surprisingly active dig- gers, although they also climb well. High temperatures are avoided.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1995) -
An as yet undiagnosed ailment of male lacertids is described. The femoral pores are over-active resulting in thick, lumpy waxy masses an the inside of the thighs. In animals wich this condition bugly eyes, apathy and a lessened sexual drive was often noticed. The disease is probably not contagious. Instead of an infection (as mentioned in the literature), the cause may lie in a disturbed metabolism or an unsettled hormonal balance.
L. unisexualis produces one clutch yearly, with 1 - 5 eggs (3.4 on average). Fertile egg measure 7.5 x 12.3 mm and weigh 0.43 g. The eggs grow to 11.1 x 18.9 am and 1.51 g and hatch after 51 days at 25°C und after 40 days at 29°C. The hatchlings measure 27 + 47 mm (snout-vent length + tail) and weigh 0.49 g. In captivity sexual maturity was reached in the second year. Some colour characteristics, especially blue axillary spots, are mentioned.
An as yet undiagnosed illness of lacertid lizards of the genera Algyroides, Gallotia, Lacerta, and Algyroides is described. The main symptoms are runny eyes, apathy, food und water refusal. The illness is almost always fatal. Antibiotics like tetracyclines and sulphathiazole had no effect. It is not known whether the disease is contagious. Some species like green lizards seem to be more susceptible. Stress is thought to possibly play an important role in this disease.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1996) -
In April 1995, during unseasonably cold, wet weather. tive specimens of Lacerta lmmdtii were caught in Iran: one 35 km east of Tabriz next to the small lake at Guritshul (1900 m), and four near Bazoft in Kuh Rang (2500 m). 150 km west of Esfahan. The latter is only the second report for this mountain range since the Street Expedition of 1968 collected seven specimens. No differences in pholidosis were found between the four male Kuh Rang lizards and the published data for the populations in north-western Iran. It appears that yellow is less prominent in the coloration of the L. lmmdtii of Kuh Rang. The annual change in coloration is described. Around three weeks after ending hibernation the male`s dorsal and lateral regions of the frontal part of the body change from dull brown into bright green, the posterior half into a fair hazel. Throats can still be yellow at this stage but will frequently change into blue, the colour often also sprea- ding to the labials. From faintly yellow the belly will turn brightly (greenish) yellow. the region around the cloaca, the underside of the tail and the undersides of the hind legs change into orange. Unlike some literature suggests, this colour is not found in the pelvic region of the supposedly related species Lfraasii and L parva. Around July the dorsal and lateral co- lours darken, the green disappears, and the ventral colours pale. Even before hibernation starts some throats may already acquire a blue tinge. The animals lived on the ground, moving be- tween the scarce vegetation and some larger boulders. When collected, they had apparently recently ended their hibernation, these were just males which had not shed their skin, they were dull looking due to the dried clay. Faecal pellets of animals from both localities mainly contained many small-sized Coleoptera. At both localities the soil consisted of clay with sunken pieces of limestone. Ophisops cf. ele- gans and Bufo viridis were found to be sympa- tric. A list with chance finds of other reptiles and amphibians is also provided.
In indoor terraria Adolfus jacksoni lays 3 - 5 clutches yearly, each batch consisting of 3 - 4 eggs. Oviposition takes place in the period January - September. Averaged over three years most clutches were found in January and May - July.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1997) -
Courtship behaviour of lizards from Ma`alula (Syria) starts with the usual introductory tail-bite, mainly in the female`s tail base, of 64 ± 31 sec. (42 - 133 sec.) (n = 8). With some snapping movements the male then secures a proper mating bite laterally in the posterior part of the female`s flank. Copulation lasts 42 ± 12 (26 - 62) See, (n = 8). Intromission is terminated by the male pulling his cloaca away a few seconds before he opens his jaws and releases the female. The only report in the literature on this lacertid, which describes a bite in the female`s thigh during courtship, is explained as a misinterpretation under field circumstances.
With temperatures around 30°C the Lacerta cf. kulzeri in Petra (Jordan) showed a bimodal activity rhythm in April. The lizards clearly preferred the vertical sandstone faces with a further predilection for the horizontal cracks. A female in gestation and probable territorial behaviour indicate that the reproductive season had already started. The somewhat Iusher vegetation in the lizard`s habitat suggests a selection of a slightly more humid niche in the region, which is nevertheless much drier than where the supposedly related, and often with L. cf. kulzeri confused, Lacerta laevis occurs elsewhere in the Middle East. The saxicolous life-style could - at least partly - be a response to competition from the ground dwelling Acanthodactylus boskianus.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1998) -
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1999) -
A presumed paratype of Lacerta mostoufii Baloutch, 1977 deposited in the Muséum national d`Histoire naturelle (Paris) is a mislabelled, probably Iranian, specimen of Lacerta praticola praticola. The type material in the Iranian Museum of Natural History (Tehran) is lost. The validity of L. mostoufii therefore remains unclear, and new visits to the type localities and new specimens are needed before the species can be accepted.
I observed and caught the local form of Lacerta cf. kulzeri at the beginning of June 1998 in the Mt. Hermon range at 1600-2000 m altitude. Apparently this lizard is restricted to dolomite, probably because the water retaining properties of this type of rock causes a slightly more humid microhabitat than the surroundings. The animals, not particularly shy, are active from at least 9:00- 17:00, altthough they seem to avoid the hotter hours. They appeared to live individually in territories of several Square meters in area. The main category of prey remains found in the faecal pellets was Staphylinidae (Coleoptera). Male L. cf. kulzeri that I caught measured 58-61 + 128 - 134 mm (HB + T) and weighed 6.5 g, females were 52 - 58 + 100 - 111 mm and weighed 4.5 - 5.3 g. The ventral colouration was off-white to somewhat pinkish or yellowish. Some females already carried eggs in June. One female deposited three eggs (6.5 x 12.5 mm, 0.25 g) in a terrarium at the beginning of July, but unfortunately these did not develop. In 1999 both females each produced two clutches of 3 - 5 eggs in April and May. The eggs measured 7.7 ± 0.6 x 14,4 ± 1.4 mm (n = 12) and weighed 0.53 ± 0,08 (0.43 - 0.70) g (n = 12). Only one egg developed, it grew to 1.38 g and 12.3 x 15.5 mm, and hatched after 60 days at 25 °C. The juvenile measured 28 + 52 mm (HB + T) and 0.50 g. Except for the turquoise tail and a slightly more pronounced pattern on the flanks, the young resembles its parents. The ventral colouration cream to slightly rose. The poor hatching results could have been caused by transports and blood punctures for DNA research.
Reproduetion of thc parthenogcnctic fonns Lacena armeniaca and Lacerta wzise.rtwlis undcr caplive conditions is documcnted. A short review of parthenogenesis is givcn and thc origin of known parthogcnctic forms with- in the genus Lacerta is discussed. Thc rcccnt- ly described fonns from castem Turkcy. Lacerta henclimalliensis and Lacerta sapphiri- tw. an: illustrated. Thc current common opinion is that partheno- gcnctic Lacerta fonns found in the eaucasus region are thc rcsult of crosses hetween diffe- rent species. Thc parental species of L. uni- .H`Xtwlis would he Locatanairensis (phenoty- pically vcry similar to L tmisexualis) and utn•rta mlemini. and for L. armeniaca prc- sumahly utcerta mixta and L mlemini. lt is rcmarkahlc that parthcnogenetic rcptilcs tcnd to he found in arcas wherc major cata- strophes occur regularly. or have occurred in the recent past. Thc ice agcs are mentioned in litcraturc as a possiblc factor driving par- thenogenesis in the eaucasus. The new Turkish uniscxual utcerta forms occur vcry close to a lakc which most prohably has histo- rically had major lluctuations in water leveL Unstahle water levels in rivers along which some L.uni.H`Xtwlis live. is mentioncd in litera- rature in thc samc context. In othcr words. an unstahlc cnvironment secms to fa`our parthe- nogcnetic forms. Data on capti`e animals rcfute some curious misconccptions conccrning parthcnogenctic lizards. lt is somelimes said that a minimum numhcr of animals is rcquired before repro- duetion occurs hut this has nol proven truc for L. armnziaca and L. tmise.rttalis. Partheno- gcnetic animals are said to die relativcly young. hut at six years of age my L unisexu- alis are still hcalthy and in lïne reproductive condition. Hushandry is reputed to be diftï- cult. hut this is nol so in L. lmisexualis: 68 young have heen reared from 80 eggs - I stop- ped incuhating thc cggs because of a major surplus in young. lt has heen proposed in literaturc that the suc- ccss of unisexual forms is partially related to time savcd hy nol copulating. Although some time may he saved in not needing to locale a mate. the time gain from nol performing courtship is small. as in closely rclated eaucasus spedes this takes only minutes. The assumption found in some literaturc that onc of the advantages parthenogcnetic forms have over their parental species is a shorter incuba- tion duration. is refutcd for L. unisexualis and partially for L. ttnneniaca (not having onc of the parental species. L mixta). Although hoth of these parthcnogenetic spe- cies are reputed to occur in high densities. it is often wrongly assumed that they are not aggressive. They are in fact quite aggressive towards other lizards as well as towards con- specitïcs during the reproductivc period. This is particularly ohvious immcdiatcly after ovi- position. when they chase off any intruder that comes too near them or the nest- some at- tackcd lizards have even lost legs in such encounters. Brecding of L amu•niaca proved dirticuit in that only four young resulted from ..J-3 eggs produced. Possihly a number of dcfects had accumulatcd in thc starting material: these fcmalcs all slmwed major pbolidosis anoma- lics. missing locs. and sornc had short. stuhby tails. Thc young showcd similar dcfects (with up to 15 tocs missing). The adults measured 51-62 rnm (hcadhody) + 57-152 mm (tail). Weigllls varicd from 4.9 g to 5.7 g outside the reproductivc scason (September). Each fenmie oviposited once a ycar (around Aprii-May). An average clutch contained 3.6 eggs (2-5 cggs): healthy cggs rneasured 7.6x 12.5 mm and wcighed 0.42 g at oviposition. The eggs rcached II.XxI6.X 111111 and 1.37 g during dcvclopmcnt. They hatched after 46 and 48 days whcn incuhatcd at 2Y`C. and after 37 days at 29°C. The ncwly hatched juveniles 111easured 25.5 111111 head-body + 25.7 mm tail (and thus had an ahnormal tail length in this sample). and wcighcd 0.43 g. The juveniles resembied thc adults hut for the blueish- greenish tails. and the Jack of bluespots on thc tlanks and on the outer vcntrals. They pro- oueed thcir lirst cggs in their secmld year. Husbandry of L. uni.,·e,rtwlis is remarkahly easy. None has shown the aberrations mentio- ned for L. an11e11iam. Of the eighty eggs incu- hated. 6X resultcd in healthy juveniles. Thc adult /.. tmisexualis measured 52-66 mm (head-hody) + 121-1-1-2 111111 (laiI). Wcights varied from 4.92 g to 7.72 g outside the repro- ductivc season (September). Each female ovi-posited once a year (a sec011d clutch of unfcr- tile eggs was twice found); around Aprii-May. An avcrage clutch contained 4-5 eggs. Healthy cggs measured 7.5x 12.3 mm and weighed 0.42 gat oviposition. These reached 10.9x 16.6 mm and 1.33 g during development. Eggs hatched after 48 days when incubated at 25°C, and after 38 days at 29°C. The newly hatched juveniles measured 27.0 mm (head-body) + 47.6 mm (tail), and weighed 0.46 g. The juve- niles resembied the adults but for the very vaguely blueish-greenish tails; they also lacked the yellowish ventral colour and the blue spots were still very pale. Young pro- duced their tirst fertile eggs in their second ycar. Both the eggs and the resulting juveniles in both species are slightly larger than in sexu- ally rcproducing lacertids of comparable size. This would confer a competitive advantage.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (2000) -
Tenacious courtship attempts by a male Algyroides moreoticus resulted in the female arching her body, with her back concave, then flipping over onto her back, with legs outstretched. She appeared apathetic and limp; only her pronounced respiration indicated she was still alive. The male abandoned his courtship efforts and left the vicinity. The female remained on her back for a few minutes, and responded normally to extemal stimuli only after approximately three hours. Her behavior, which resulted in her escaping attention, may have been submissive or death-feigning in its meaning. This behaviour pattern has not been previously reported in lacertids.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (2001) -
Lacertid lizards frequently shed the outer layers of the epidermis of the paired male intromittent organs, the hemipenes. The hemipenial sloughs so formed are saclike and reproduce all the external features of the hemipenes in great detail. Sloughs are deposited immediately after the first defecation of the day and are produced almost every morning during the breeding season. I have observed these in 48 lacertid species, including members of the genera Acanthodactylus, Adolfus, Algyroides, Gallotia, Holaspis, Lacerta s.l., Latastia, Podarcis, Psammodromus, and Takydromus. As these forms represent all three subfamilies of the Lacertidae, the phenomenon is likely to have been present in the common ancestor of the family. It may even be a general squamate feature, as it has also been observed in the distantly related varanid Varanus acanthurus. Frequent shedding of hemipenial sloughs violates pan-epidermal synchrony, the belief that the epidermis of squamates is shed simultaneously over all parts of the body, and indicates that the hemipenial epidermis is under different hormonal control from the rest of the skin. The function of frequent shedding of the hemipenial epidermis is not known for certain, but there is a wide range of possible hypotheses. Some of these are involved in increasing the efficiency of copulation and ameliorating its costs, while others emphasise the possible signalling function of the hemipenial sloughs.
The phenomenon of twins is very rare in lacertids. This conclusion was reached by looking at a recent instance of twins hatching from a single egg in Lacerta nairensis, an older but comparable occurrence in Algyroides fitzingeri, as well as my personal experience over many years of incubating lizard eggs. It is estimated that twins occur in 1:5000 to 1:500 eggs.
The Short-nosed Desert Racer, Mesalina brevirostris, is reported for the hamada north and northeast of Hermel, north-eastern Lebanon; the first confirmed record for this country. Older records, which may refer to Mesalina, are analysed. Data on size, pholidosis, and colour are pre- sented and discussed. The courtship ritual is described for the first time: after an introduction of 130 seconds the male bites the female’s groin. During the 75 seconds of copulation, the male em- ploys two series of tail-base motions. This repetition is unique among the lacertids. Also unique among the lacertids is the location of the bite-hold that the male maintains on the female. He grabs a piece of dorsolateral skin just above the base of her tail and can hold on for up to one hour. Five clutches per year, with 1-6 eggs (average 3.9), were produced. Fertilised eggs measured 7.0x11.7 mm and weighed 0.35 g. After 59 days at 25°C and 38 days at 29°C, juveniles of 23+38 mm and 0.35 g hatched. The young reach sexual maturity within one year. Increased agricultural use of the Lebanese habitat of M. brevirostris, the hamada, could endanger the future survival of the species in this country.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (2002) -
A synonymy of the presently known forms of the Lacerta kulzeri group is presented, and pertinent literature is analyzed.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (2003) -
The physical geography of Iraq is summarised. Using data from the relevant literature and current information from the Internet, a very provisional checklist of Iraqi amphibians and reptiles is presented. Ten amphibian species are reported for Iraq, and exactly 100 reptile species.
Bosch, H.A.J. In Den (2003) -
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (2004) -
n response to two previously published accounts, it is pointed out that successful incubation of lizard eggs does not primarily depend on the medium on or in which the eggs rest, nor on the incubator. Successful incubation is solely based on the two physi- cal variables of humidity (measured as water potential in kPa) and temperature. When these variables are within the proper range (-400/-150 kPa and 25-30°C) then the chief criteria are met. The inaccurate suggestion that the sex of lacertids is re- lated to incubation temperature is rejected because the gender of the young in this group of reptiles is determined genetically. The single report cited in the scientific literature that discussed TSD in a lacertid (Podarcis pityusensis) is refuted by consid- ering larger samples of incubated eggs. Similarly, reports that water potential of the substrate affects sex determination have also been discredited in the scientific lit- erature. The sometimes in hobby literature propa- gated short, artificially induced additional hibernation soon after the summer to bring on an additional reproductive period with egg production in November/December, is objectionable. The stress on the animals is such that the health of the lizards is com- promised. Moreover, among serious reptile enthusiasts there is only a limited demand for lacertids, discounting the need for so many offspring.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (2005) -
Psammodromus microdactylus is reported from a new locality in Azilal, Morocco (alt. 1300 m, N 031°54:912, W 006°39:833). The presence of green dorsal coloration in adults (especially the male) in the breeding season, the absence of a collar, and lack of a central series of strongly enlarged scales in the lower eyelid differentiates P. microdactylus from P. blanci. Further, the suture between the rostral and the first labial falling below the centre of the nostril, breast scales of the first row being square, and relatively longer legs may hint at P. microdactylus. Many other characters used in literature proved to be derived from historical comparisons with not directly related species. An ANOVA performed on measurements on the digits of P. blanci, P. hispanicus and P. microdactylus, with head-body length as covariable, showed that the digits of all three species are of similar lengths. Intergrades between P. blanci and P. microdactylus have been cited several times in literature, but the many features shared by the two species make such specimens impossible to identify morphologically. The seasonally dependent adult dorsal coloration changes from bright emerald green in the male at the end of March to May into a less intense olive green to brown, with some indication of green remaining even in July. In the female, the already much paler greenish brown dorsal band of March-April fades completely into beige-brown at the end of May. The ground-dwelling P. microdactylus lives predominantly under and in leaf litter and around the base of small bushes, and typically basks overtly only for short periods. This lifestyle is largely responsible for its perceived rarity. In captivity, and likely in the wild under Mediterranean conditions, it can be active all year round. The absence of any field records from elsewhere during the period of July-September and from the area of distribution between November-March, suggests periods of aestivation and hibernation respectively. As food the lizards accept a large variety of invertebrates.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (2006) -
An Egyptian pair of Mesalina olivieri from the Mediterranean coast of the northern Sinai produced at least three clutches of four eggs each within a year. The eggs measured 5.1x9.2 mm and 0.15 g (n=8) when first laid, which increased in size to 9.7x16.0 mm and 0.88 g (n=4) just prior to hatching. Hatchlings measured 20+38 mm (head-body+tail lengths) and 0.18 g (n=4). Incubation took 44-47 days at 29°C and 74 days at 25°C.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den (2020) -
Field notes and vivarium observations on Philochortus zolii are given as contribution to the biology of this little-known genus of lacer-tids. These concern the activity rhythm, food preferences, weights and sizes and coloura-tion of the five captive specimens. The largest specimen had a maximum snout-vent length of 61 mm, a tail length of 190 mm and weighted 6.24 g. Unhappily no reproduction was recorded, which very well may have been caused by a lack of adult males. Possible ovi-position occurred in the vivarium in July 2009. The annual activity was lowest in November to February; in the warmer months the daily activity peaked with the start focused around 10-12 o`clock, in later years this shifted to 14-17 o`clock because of the position of the vi-varium when the lizards could profit from the sunshine coming from the south-west. The curious way the Philochortus walk with the dorsal side up on the gauze cover of their cage, is described and discussed, as is their locomotion in the vivarium.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Arnold, E.N. (1996) -
Courtship begins with the animals circling each other quickly for a few minutes in concentric circles (the female on the inside), the male apparently trying to bite the temporal region of the female, but without succeeding since the heads are always parallel. Occasionally the male does bite the flank or tail of the female, though without maintaining his grip. Quite suddenly copulation occurs, preceded by a second or two in which tails and legs seem to become a twirling jumble. In the first 10-20 seconds of the copulation the male, mailny, shows quick frontleg- and tail-movements. There is not bite-hold on the female; the male may even sit in an ´upright` position with neither his head, frontlegs nor front part of his body touching the female. However, after a maximum of approxomately tebn minutes, the male returns to the usual horizental position. Copulation lasts about 45 minutes, after which the pair separates. In 1995 a clutch of four eggs was laid in the first week of May, a second with three eggs in the third week of June. Eggs measured 9.6 x 16.9 mm and weighed 0.88 g. Just before hatching these reached 18.3 x 30.0 mm and 5.65 g. Incubation at 20°C takes 43 days. Young measured 30.6 + 43.2 mm (head-body + tail) and weighed 0.96 g. The juvenile skin patter consists of seven longitudinal, yellowish lines on a velvet, black body. On the flanks a longitudinal series of dull, yellow dots is found. Vemntrally the head and body are off-white. In contrast to what is known of all other Acanthodactylus species, juveniles of Acanthodactylus erythrurus belli show a bi-coloured instead of a uni-coloured tail. Dorsally and dorsolaterally it is turquoise, laterally and ventrally it is a saturated red. Since there is no clear demarcation line between the two, and because the final colour impression is somewhat dependet on the angle of observation, hues between blue via lilac to brown and red result. Except for some striping and banding in other lacertids, mostly concerning shades of the same colour, this bicoloured tail is also unique within the family Lacertidae. Even in the closely related Acanthodactylus e. erythrurus juveniles show only uni-coloured red tails. The impression is that a blue juvenile tail may be ´primitive` in Acanthodactylus; in the majority of species it still is that colour. It changes to blue with black transverse bands in A. schmidti, whitish blue in A. gongrorhynchatus and yellowish in A. haasi, A. micropholis and Egyptian A. longipes. Red tails occur in African A. boskianus, in A. e. erythrurus and A. opheodurus. In some species the colour is most intense distally and dorsally, but fades anteriorly. At the other extreme of the spectrum it is strong on the tail underside and also occurs on the back of the thighs. Presumably the former, which concentrates attention towards the tail tip and away from the more vulnerable body, distracts predators. The latter case, being striking from a lizard´s eyeview, especially if the tail is lifted, could be an intraspecific signal which in analogy to literature on Eremias may reduce agression in mature males. Sympatric Acanthodactylus species often differ in immature tail colour; this may help prevent predators developing a universal Acanthodactylus search image. It may also serve an interspecific function allowing adults to recognise and eat other species´ young. It may thus be that tail colour has two distinct puposes, in which case there may be situations where the optimum colours for signalling to conspecific and to predators are different. However, if so, it is surprising that bi-coloured tails are extremely rare. Maybe too much conspicuousness is detrimental? At an age of six months the remaining blue tail colour in A. e. belli is only just visible on an oblique angle, although the red – albeit less intensive – still shows. In the present case with young A. e. belli one might hypothesize that blue, possibly performing an interspecific function is less necessary (in the grown juvenile), but that, the presumably intraspecifically active red, apparently still is useful (like in the closely related A. e. erythrurus where in females it may persist into young adulthood). An additional three months later most of the tail colour has disappeared, the tail being only veguely greenish from a distance (the combined effect of light blue and light red). In adult A. e. belli most of the black and all of the tail colour changes into brown or brownish-grey. Some of the black persists as rows of black markings on the body. The yellow lines disappear for the greater part (in males) or change into grey or white (in females).
Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Bischoff, W. (1995) -
The courtship of Lacerta chlorogaster includes a hind-leg bite, clearly different from the flank bite of Lacerta laevis. Each female can lay two clutches per year, with 3-6 eggs. The eggs measure 6.9 x 10.7 mm und have a weight of 0.31 g. They grow to 10.9 x 17.0 mm und 1.15 g. Hatchlings appear after 55 days at 25°C und 42 days at 29°C; they measure 24.3 + 40.0 mm (SV+T) und 0.34 g. Adult males change their colors from dull brown dorsally to gaudy green, three to four wecks after reappearing from hibernation. The greenish yellow ventral colour changes into blue-green. At mid June the bright colours fade relatively rapidly. In females und immature subadults the seasonal colour change is much less expressed.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Bischoff, W. (1996) -
The first observations on reproduction and behaviour in captivity are reported for three lizards from the Near East (Lacerta kulzeri group). The animals were caught in Petra (Jordan), in the Anti Lebanon mountain range near Ma`lula (Syria), and in die Lebanon mountain range near Aineta, Hadet and Faraya (Lebanon). All three forms produce at least two clutches yearly, each consisting of on average three eggs. Hatchlings were obtained from all three forms. These are described below. The taxonomie relations between the three lizard-forms presented here, as well as their relationships to Lacerta laevis and Lacerta danfordi, are discussed in brief.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Bischoff, W. (2004) -
Many regions of the former USSR still re- ceive little attention from Western visitors, herpetologists not excluded. For the Cau- casus Mountains this is all the more sur- prising since the area forms a zone where northern and Middle Eastern flora and fauna meet, and which is thus of considera- bly zoogeographical interest. Presently we find three larger states in the Caucasus: Georgia, Azerbaijan and Arme- nia. Turkey borders to the southwest, Iran to the southeast, and in the north it is the Russian federation. Various smaller parts claim independence. The Black Sea forms the natural western boundary, the Caspian Sea the eastern one. Herpetologically the Caucasus is historically well-known because of the work of Darev- sky and collaborators on the rock lizards (at the time still in the large genus Lacerta, now in Darevskia) and the discovery of the first case of parthenogenesis in vertebrates (DAREVSKY, 1967; DAREVSKII, 1978; DAREVSKY & KULIKOVA, 1961). Below we will concentrate on the results of our field trip to Georgia during the last two weeks of June 2003. Predictably, because of our common interest in the group, the lacertids will receive the most attention.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Bischoff, W. & Schmidtler, J.F. (1998) -
Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Bout, R.G. (1998) -
The interspecific relationships among female size, clutch size, egg size, and hatchling size were examined for 64 European lacertids. The eggs of all species increased linearly in both linear dimensions and mass during incubation. Across species initial egg mass was positively correlated with juvenile mass, with an allometric relationship exponent of 0.87. Initial egg mass across species increased proportionally with female mass to the power of 0.57. Moreover, an increase in maternal mass was also accompanied by an increase in clutch size. The number of eggs per clutch across species scaled with female mass to the power of 0.39. Removing the effect of female mass resulted in a negative correlation between egg mass and clutch size. Species for which the average egg size was lower than expected on the basis of female mass, tended to have larger relative clutch size. The total egg mass per clutch was about one third of female mass (exponent 0.94).
Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Kroniger, M. (2008) -
In this paper, we report on our failure to breed a lasting population of Omanosaura cyanura in a vivarium environment. In our vivaria, O. cyanura produced 1 – 5 (maximally 8) clutches per year with 2.5 – 3.5 eggs per clutch. The eggs grow to approximately 10.8 x 18.9 mm and weigh, on average, 1.29 g. The eggs normally hatch at 25 °C after 72 days and at 29 °C after 56 days. In this study, of the externally healthy looking, only approximately one third hatched. The average dimensions of the eggs immediately following oviposition were 6.0 x 10.8 mm with a mean weight of 0.25 g. We surmise that a potential reason for the lack of hatching success is a vitamin D3 deficiency. Raising the successful hatchlings (SVL 23.9 mm; TL 46.8 mm; weight 0.25 g) turned out to be quite difficult because they were very finicky about eating and drinking, and moreover turned out to be easily frightened. We recommend keeping the individual lizards separately most of the time because of a high level of interspecific aggression.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Musters, C.J.M. (1981) -
Note are given on the herpetofauna of Greece, with special reference to some of the (sub-) species. The observations were made during a spring trip.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Odierna, G. & Aprea, G. & Barucca, M. & Canapa, A. & Capriglione, T. & Olmo, E. (2003) -
Karyological (standard and C, Ag-NOR and Alu-I banding methods) and mtDNA analyses (cytochrome b and 12S rRNA) were conducted on specimens from eight allopatric populations of the Lacerta kulzeri complex. Parallel analyses were performed for comparison on Lacerta laevis specimens. Karyological and molecular studies support the morphological and ethological evidence indicating the specific separation between Lacerta laevis and Lacerta kulzeri In the Lacerta kulzeri complex, chromosomal analysis substantiated an interpopulation differentiation roughly along a north–south trend, mainly regarding the sex chromosome morphology and heterochromatin.The cytochrome b and 12S rRNA gene analyses showed minor genetic differences that were considerably smaller than those commonly found in genetically isolated populations. The L. kulzeri populations from Barouk, Druze and Hermon show a mean genetic distance that, in other saurians, characterises subspecies. The conditions found in L. laevis and L. kulzeri are reminiscent of King`s model of chromosomal primary allopatry and support the hypothesis that in these lacertid lizards chromosome variations can become fixed before the accumulation of the genetic mutations.
Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Zandee, M. (2001) -
We investigate whether at a low taxonomic level an analysis of courtship provides useful phylogenetic information in lacertids. This leads to an understanding of the evolutionary development of courtship behaviour. In a concise general description of lacertid courtship behaviour, four phases are distinguished : introduction, copulation, post-copulatory bite, and the period immediately after physical separation. The composing elements are described. Observations on courtship displays of seven closely related putative species of lacertid lizards, Lacerta cf. kulzeri, are summarised in 38 behavioural traits, resulting in a data matrix analysed by PAUP. One most parsimonious cladogram (MPC) with 61 steps (corrected Consistency Index = 0.62) is found. The study demonstrates that at a low taxonomic level (putative species) in lacertids, a behavioural analysis provides useful phylogenetic information, from which a reconstruetion of the evolutionary development of courtship behaviour results. In the L. cf. kulzeri complex, courtship seems to evolve towards a lengthening of the total duration. This trend is possibly correlated with an increased preference for a progressively more vegetated, horizontal microhabitat, after coming from a similar ancestral environment in lowland areas and going through an evolution in a more open, drier ecosystem of rocky outcrops at higher elevations. The character sets on the internal nodes of the cladogram do not seem to represent a coherent evolutionary pathway. These stages of evolutionary development appear to be interchangeable. Moreover, behavioural syndromes can hardly be recognised in this phylogenetic context. Our cladogram is strictly based on apomorphic similarities, and all relationships among taxa are based on recency of common ancestry. The only other diagram for this group available from the literature is based on overall morphological similarity. This dendrogram is considerably longer (69 steps) when the behavioural characters are mapped onto it. Parsimony mapping of behavioural characters on an as yet unpublished preliminary cladogram based on 12S rDNA data results in 65 steps. Consequently, we favour the behavioural cladogram.
Bosch, P. (1990) -
Comparing the head scales of female and male L. schreiberi the following difference was obser- ved. Females have touching prefrontal scales (photo 1), males have one or two scales between ~he prefrontals (photo 2 and 3).
Boscherini, A. (2015) -
Boschert, M. & Lehnert, M. (2007) -
Bosma, W. (2019) -
Bosman, W. & Schippers, T. & Bruin, A. de & Glorius, M. (2011) -
Dispensation for the Dutch Flora and Fauna Act: noncommittal? In the Netherlands, many species of reptiles, amphibians and shes are protected by law. One of the clauses of this law is that habitat lost due to, for example, human habitation or industrial expansion at locations where such species occur, has to be compensated for. In this context, compensation means creating new habitat values comparable with the values lost as a consequence of human activity. One has to ask the government for dispensation by submitting a report for all the activities carried out and a plan for compensation. Thirty-one projects were selected for which the Dutch government gave dispensation with a compensation obligation and evaluated them on: timeline and quality of implementation and availability of monitoring data. Field visits revealed that in eleven projects there was no visible activity, so we evaluated the 20 remaining cases. Species should be allowed to colonise a new habitat before the old one disappears. In three cases, compensation was created before other activities started. In three other cases, in which was compensated, this was not done. In seven cases, it was unclear when compensation was carried out. In all other cases, no compensation was detected, also not before the project was implemented. Only in 10% of the cases evaluated, was compensation fully carried out as described in the dispensation contract. In all other cases, compensation was partially or not carried out (table 3). No monitoring data were available from any project. We have to conclude that although the Dutch government permits dispensation due to contracts, there is hardly any check on whether or how the compensation is carried out. This must lead to losses of occupied habitats of Habitats Directive II species or Red List species, as for example the Great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) and European weather loach (Misgurnus fossilis). And this is against European legislation.
Bosman, W. & Spikmans, F. (2011) -
Bössneck, U. (2008) -
Im Rahmen der lokalfaunistischen Bearbeitung von 184 überwiegend aktuellen Angaben zum Vorkommen von Kriechtieren im Gebiet der Stadt Erfurt liegen für fünf Arten faunistisch-ökologische Daten vor. Auf das zunehmende Problemfeld bezüglich illegal in die Natur gelangter ursprünglich nicht einheimischer Reptilien, insbesondere Wasserschildkröten, wird eingegangen.
Botoni, D. & Kapli, P. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutas, Y. & Avci, A. & Pouyani, N.R. & Fathinia, B. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2011) -
Apathya is a lacertid genus occurring mainly in south-east Turkey and its adjacent regions (part of Iran and Iraq). So far two morphological species have been attributed to the genus, i.e. A. cappadocica (with five subspecies, A. c. cappadocica, A. c. muhtari, A. c. schmidtlerorum, A. c. urmiana and A. c. wolteri) and A. yassujica. The first of them occupies most of the genus’ distribution while A. yassujica is endemic of the Zagros Mountains. The topology and the genetic distances retrieved from this study, reveal that Apathya is a highly variable genus, which comes in agreement with the high morphological variation found in previous studies. Such levels of morphological differentiation and genetic divergence often exceed those between species of other Lacertini genera that are already treated as full species, justifying our view that the genus requires taxonomical revision. The phylogeographical scenario proposed reveals that dispersal and vicariant events in Anatolia and Southwest Asia throughout the Miocene, Pliocene, and Pleistocene resulted in the present distribution of the genus under study. Key geological event for the understanding of the phylogeography of the genus is the movement of the Arabian plate that led to the configuration of Middle East specifically the formation of the mountain ranges of Turkey and Iran.
Böttcher, H. (1967) -
Botte, V. (1973) -
Botte, V. (1974) -
Botte, V. & Angelini, F. & Picariello, O. (1978) -
Botte, V. & Angelini, F. & Picariello, O. & Molino, R. (1976) -
Botte, V. & Basile, C. (1974) -
Botte, V. & Rio, G. del (1965) -
Botte, V. & Rio, G. del (1967) -
Bou-Resli, M. (1974) -
1. Intercellular bridges connect the oocyte with its surrounding follicle cells. 2. Fibrillar bundles and microtubules are oriented along the length of the bridge. Mitochrondria, endoplasmic reticulum, multivesicular vesicles and other cytoplasmic components are also present in this region. 3. This communication may be very important for the flow of nutrients necessary for the growth of the oocyte.
Bou-Resli, M.N. (1981) -
The ultrastructure of the nuclei in the ovarian follicular cells has been examined in the lizards Acanthodacylus scutellatus hardyi, and Eremias brevirostris. During certain growth stages, the nuclei of the intermediate and the pyriform cells become large and conspicuous, and usually contain numerous morphologically variable nucleoli. The latter may be nucleolonemal, compact, ring-shaped, “filamentous”, “fine-filamentous”, “amorphous” or “course-granular” in type, and the number and type in each nucleus seems to be related to the developmental stage. The type of nucleolus may indicate different phases of activity in the nucleus and may also suggest an association with the production of different types of RNA.
Bouam, I. & Benbouta, C. & Bouteghriout, A. & Khelfaoui, F. (2015) -
Le régime alimentaire et l’activité journalière du lézard Psammodromus algirus ont été étudiés durant la période de son maximum d’activité (Mai – Juin 2013) dans un environnement semi-aride au sein du Parc National de Belezma au Nord-Est de l’Algérie. Le régime trophique été analysé à partir des contenus stomacaux de 21 individus, et les patrons de son activité journalière par un échantillonnage standardisé le long de plusieurs transects pseudo-aléatoires. Au total, 239 proies appartenant à 98 taxons ont été identifiées. Les arthropodes été l’alimentation principale avec une dominance des Coléoptères et tout particulièrement l’espèce Prasocuris phellandrii ainsi que les Hyménoptères. L’étude de l’occurrence à fait ressortir la famille des Chrysomelidae comme la seule famille consommée régulièrement. Les différents groupes taxinomiques consommés ont révélés une variation significative en fonction du mois; durant le mois de Juin le régime alimentaire été plus diversifiémais contrairement moins équilibré par rapport au mois de Mai. La taille des proies consommées démontre un très large éventail allant de 0,5 mm jusqu’à 50 mm. L’activité journalière été de type bimodal durant toute la période d’étude sans variations mensuelles.
Bouam, I. & Necer, A. & Saoudi, M. (2017) -
Bouam, I. & Necer, A. & Saoudi, M. & Tahar-Chaouch, L. & Khelfaoui, F. (2016) -
The large psammodromus, Psammodromus algirus, is one of the most widespread Mediterranean lacertid lizards; unfortunately, its ecology in North Africa remains understudied. In this study, we present detailed data on trophic ecology, daily activity patterns during the breeding season, and the maximum activity period of this lizard in a semi-arid environment at Belezma National Park (Batna, northeast Algeria). Feeding data were collected using stomach flushing, and daily activity patterns were analyzed by surveying standardized transects. Analysis of the contents of 21 stomachs revealed 238 prey items of 74 different taxa classified into five classes, 18 orders, 50 families, and 71 different genera. The diet was highly diverse and primarily consisted of arthropods. Insects were the predominant food comprising 85% of all prey, followed by arachnids (13%). Regarding temporal variation in diet, prey-species richness did not vary noticeably between months; however, the number of individuals within prey categories did. The size of prey consumed varied over a very broad spectrum and followed a logarithmic distribution, but did not vary between months. Concerning daily activity, lizards exhibited a bimodal activity pattern. Overall, compared to littoral and European populations studied in other works, diet differed slightly and daily activity was remarkably reduced in the morning and postponed in the afternoon.
Bouazza, A. (2018) -
Boudjemadi, K. & Martin, O. & Simón, J.C. & Estoup, A. (1999) -
Bougiouri, K. & Spilani, L. & Antoniou, A. & Lymberakis, P. & Psonis, N. & Poulakakis, N. (2016) -
The wall-lizard Podarcis cretensis is distributed on the island of Crete and its surrounding islets. The taxon was recently elevated to the species level due to the fact that the Cretan populations (P. erhardii in that time) were paraphyletic with respect to P. peloponnesiacus. Here, we employed both microsatellite loci and mitochondrial DNA to examine the population structure and the phylogeographic patterns of the Cretan wall-lizard based on Bayesian Inference approaches. Samples of the species P. levendis, P. peloponnesiacus, and P. erhardii were also included in the present study mainly as outgroup but also as putative source populations. Based on the microsatellite dataset, strong population structure was detected that not only discriminates samples at the species level but also revealed within species population structure for P. cretensis and P. peloponnesiacus. The chronophylogenetic analyses place the differentiation of the Cretan wall-lizard at Pliocene probably triggered by the paleogeography of the area, i.e. the Pliocene islands of Crete. Under a holistic approach followed in this study the molecular data were combined with the results of species distribution modelling assisting in the elucidation of the biogeographic history of the Cretan wall lizard.
Boulenger, G.A. (1878) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1881) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1884) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1887) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1888) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1889) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1890) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1891) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1892) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1894) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1895) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1896) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1897) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1898) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1899) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1900) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1902) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1903) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1904) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1905) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1906) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1907) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1908) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1909) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1910) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1911) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1913) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1914) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1916) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1917) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1918) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1919) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1920) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1921) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1923) -
Boulenger, G.A. (1928) -
Bour, R. & Cheylan, M. & Crochet, P.-A. & Geniez, P. & Guyetant, R. & Haffner, P. & Ineich, I. & Naulleau, G. & Ohler, A.-M. & Lescure, J. (2008) -
Bouragaoui, Z. & Ben Aba, W. & Nouira, S. (2019) -
Bouragaoui, Z. & Nouira, S. (2019) -
We examined lines of arrested growth (LAG) in femurs from 20 individuals of the sand lizard Psammodromus algirus sampled from the north of Tunisia (North Africa). The number of the LAGs reached a maximum of three. The instant speed of linear growth in the first year was 6.6×10–2 mm/day and 3.76×10–2 mm/day the second year. The diameter of the marrow cavity was significantly larger in female (334.52 μm±115.68 μm) than in male (324.42 μm±114.2 μm). The growth rate observed in P. algirus followed the known growth pattern in lacertid lizards and the difference in the diameter of the marrow cavity between males and females may be related to a sexual dimorphism.
Bourgault, L. (2011) -
Bourgault, L. (2013) -
Bourgeois, M. (1964) -
Bourquin, O. & Channing, A. (1980) -
Bourquin, O. & Haacke, W.D. (1993) -
Bourret, R. (2009) -
Bousbouras, D. & Ioannidis, Y. (1994) -
Eleven species of amphibians and 22 species of reptiles are recorded from the mountainous Florina prefecture on the Greek borders of Albania and the Republic Macedonia. Some ecological notes and the distribution of these species are also reported.
Bouskila, A. & Renan, S. (2010) -
Tail undulation or vibration and waving of both forelegs (often called “hand waving”) are two of the displays commonly used by lizards. Researchers interpreted these displays as having various anti-predator functions. According to one suggestion (the predator-monitoring hy- pothesis, Magnusson 1996) lizard’s tail and hand waving may serve as a stimulus for predators to attack by creating a movement illusion while the lizard is sedentary and able to detect a preda- tor. So far, this hypothesis has not been tested. We observed 94 Acanthodactylus schreiberi in Mediterranean coastal dunes and recorded 1385 arm waving cases and 1382 tail displays that were performed while no predator was nearby. We concentrated on the cases with no predators in order to determine whether these displays are consistent with the distinctive predictions of the predator-monitoring hypothesis. Lizards’ arm waving and tail display were highly associated. As predicted by the predator-monitoring hypothesis, arm waving was highly associated also with movement: most of the arm-waving cases were conducted by the lizards in short pauses while moving or a few seconds before starting to move. Furthermore, arm waving and tail displays were related to predation risk: individuals that use more risky foraging (i.e., juveniles and individuals in active dunes) performed tail display and/or arm waving more frequently than individuals that use safer foraging. Both the timing of the arm display and its high association with tail display and with risky foraging support the hypothesis that under the circumstance observed, the display is used to monitor potential predators.
Bouslama, Z. & Soualah-Alila, H. & Belabed, A. & Ouali, K. (2009) -
Study of the system Tick-Lizard in the national park of El Kala (North-East Algeria). -- Among the emerging diseases rickettsioses would hold a prominent place in Algeria. The news was a reminder that some diseases can easily cross the species barrier and affect humans especially those related to wildlife. The pathogenicity of ticks `Ixodes ricinus is located on several levels. Ixodes ricinus in Algeria remains among the most infected ticks in North Africa, however, which represent the highest rate of infection observed in southern Europe. Many species of ticks parasitize reptiles especially lizards. Those when they are parasitized by ticks (Ixodes) are regarded as competent reservoirs of Borrelia and in a few exceptions a reservoir incompetent. For most of Ixodes (immature) Ixodes ricinus, Ixodes scapularis, ticks feed on the blood of lizards. This has served to emphasize the importance of Ixodes in epidemiology as primary vector of Lyme disease and the important role that play the lizard in the maintenance and movement of Borreliae. In this context, we are interested to ectoparasites lizards and role in the epidemiological cycle of the Rickettsioses. Our results are quite important because after PCR ticks we could detect the presence of Rickettsia sp. in 35% of all ticks collected. Given the number of rickettsioses transmitted by ticks (Rickettsia conori, `spotty mediterranean fever”, Coxiella burneti `Q fever `, R. africae `The african tick fever `), our results could not be ignored for since this is the first time that rickettsiae were detected in ticks from lizards.
Bouslimani, M. & Ait Chikh, M. (2019) -
Bovenkerk Jr., J. (1955) -
Bovenkerk, J. (1948) -
Bover, P. & Quintana, J. & Alcover, J.A. (2008) -
The Balearic Islands are an archipelago located in the Western Mediterranean Sea. Their isolation from the mainland allowed the establishment of different faunas on each island. In Mallorca, the Pliocene fauna was composed of the so-called Myotragus-fauna (mainly consisting of a bovid, a glirid and a soricid). In Menorca, it was constituted by the giant rabbit-fauna (mainly consisting of a giant rabbit and a tortoise), and in the Pityusics by a tortoise, a lizard and two rodents. A main faunal turnover took place during the Late Pliocene or Early Pleistocene: the Myotragus-fauna reached Menorca and replaced the giant rabbit fauna. In the Pityusics, all mammals and the tortoise became extinct before the Late Pleistocene for unknown reasons, leaving birds and the lizard as the only vertebrates of these islands. Almost all the endemic vertebrates of the Balearics became extinct probably due to the first human arrival to the islands.
Bovero, S. & Canalis, L. & Crosetto, S. (2013) -
Bowker, R.G. (1986) -
Bowker, R.G. & Bowker, G.E. & Wright, C. & Clark, D. (2001) -
Bowker, R.G. & Bowker, G.E. & Wright, C.L. (2013) -
Using video cameras and motion detection software, we examined sequential positions of the lizard Podarcis carbonelli in a temperature gradient to look for patterns in spatial and temporal thermoregulatory movements. As lizards shuttled between warm and cool areas, their movements were typically slow; punctuated by bursts of speed. The animals were relatively inactive when heating, moved almost continually when cooling, and spent less time heating than cooling. Traditional modeling techniques proved unsuccessful, so we assessed the movement patterns with nonlinear dynamical techniques. The shuttling frequency, and the pattern of velocity changes, both met the qualitative attributes (self similarity, strange attractors, and noisy power spectra) and the quantitative criteria (positive Lyapunov exponent and capacity and/or correlation dimensions less than 5) that suggest deterministic chaos. These movement patterns appear regular, but at unpredictable times the patterns become disturbed before returning to regulation. There are both behavioral and physiological advantages to movements that follow a model of deterministic chaos control.
Bowker, R.G. & Wright, C.L. & Bowker, G.E. (1998) -
Bowker, R.G. Spindler, H.S. & Tilden, A. & Bairos, V.A. & Murray, R. (1987) -
Bowler, J. (2018) -
Bowles, F.D. (1995) -
Bowles, F.D. (2002) -
Bowles, F.D. (2003) -
Bowles, F.D. (2006) -
Bowles, F.D. (2011) -
Bowles, P. (2024) -
Boycott, R.C. (1992) -
Boycott, R.C. & Morgan, D.R. (1988) -
Boyer, I. & Bertrand, R. & Lourdais, O. & Isselin-Mondedeu, F. (2023) -
Species may respond to climate change by redistributing their distribution areas, but because they do not share the same climatic affinities, they should not respond in the same way. Consequently, distribution shifts of species that are currently found in sympatry may change the extent of the area of sympatry and therefore interspecific interactions at the local scale. In Western Europe, the green lizards Lacerta agilis and Lacerta bilineata live in partial sympatry, share morphological similarities, and can locally compete for resources. In this study, we used a correlative species distribution model (SDM), Maxent, to explore the effects of climate change on the distribution of suitable areas for each species and also within their sympatric area under future scenarios. Our simulations showed that all L. agilis subspecies are more likely to lose suitable habitats throughout their distribution areas whatever the scenario. Conversely, even if L. bilineata should lose less suitable areas, gains may be more restricted. In addition, when looking within the areas both reachable for L. a. agilis and L. bilineata to identify where sympatric areas will occur, we find that they should be spatially restricted. Climatic refugia potentially shared for both lizards may therefore be limited. Consequently, competitive exclusion expected in areas suitable for both species (i.e., the potential area of sympatry) could decrease in the future as climate changes likely lead L. agilis subspecies and L. bilineata to follow different species range shifts trajectories over the 21st century.
Bozhansky, A.T. (2005) -
Bozkurt, A. & Morlmaz, E.M. & Ilgaz, C. & Üzüm, N. & Avci, A. & Dogan, Ö. & Budak, M. & Basibüyük, H.H. & Olgun, K. (2022) -
Ophisops elegans Menetries, 1832 includes six subspecies in Turkey. Here, we investigated the systematic status and distribution range of the subspecies of O. elegans in Anatolia concerning molecular and morphological approaches. Two mitochondrial (cytb and 16S rRNA) gene regions were used for the phylogenetic analyses. The phylogenetic trees were constructed with the Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood approaches. For morphological evaluations, ANOVA, Discriminant Function Analyses, and Mann Whitney-U Test were performed via SPSS. The O. elegans complex was split into six main clades. Clade A corresponded to nominate subspecies O. e. elegans. Clade B included African and Levant Ophisops samples. Clade C (O. e. ehrenbergii) was separated into two subclades, and the subspecies distribution was much broader than suggested in the literature. Clade D was defined as O. e. centralanatoliae. The distribution of O. e. centralanatoliae was also much broader than reported in the literature. Clade E can be named as O. e. basoglui, and its range was found to be narrower than mentioned in the literature. Clade F refers to the O. e. macrodactylus, and phylogenetic analyses did not recover O. e. budakibarani as a separate clade. Therefore, O. e. budakibarani was assigned as a junior synonym of O. e. macrodactylus.
Bozkurt, E. (2022) -
Anatolia has played an important role in the speciation of many species. Global climatic changes affect the distribution of many reptiles in different ways, including their range expansion or habitat loss. In this study, we focused on the genus Anatololacerta which inhabits Anatolia and some Greek islands. In total, 150 literature records and 20 items of observation data were analysed with the maximum entropy method (MaxEnt) for the last glacial maximum (LGM), as well as historical (1970-2000) and future (2081-2100; RCP 4.5) bioclimatic conditions. According to our model, the distribution ranges in the future conditions for A. danfordi, A. finikensis and A. ibrahimi were more extensive than for the historical conditions. However, A. anatolica and A. pelasgiana may experience a potential habitat loss in the future. Although physical barriers were obstacles in the LGM and historical records, these barriers may be overcome after the climatic changes taking place in the near future.
Bozkurt, E. & Ürker, O. & Elverici, M. (2022) -
Oriental Sweetgum (Liquidambar orientalis) is a threatened tree species restricted to Rhodes Island (Greece) and southern Anatolia (Turkey), best known for its rare riparian forests. These small patches of forests are severely fragmented and scattered, and are rarely found in southwestern Turkey. Based on field sampling and data compilation, we performed an assessment of the herpetofauna in these forests in southwestern Turkey during the spring of 2019 and 2021. Sampling was carried out using a line-transect method in 13 forests with various habitats, resulting in data at the community and population levels. Sixteen families, including 26 amphibian and reptile species (four anurans, four turtles, nine lizards, and nine snakes), were recorded from these unique forests, based on 1440 individuals. Twenty-two species were recorded for the first time from these forests; in addition, Emys orbicularis and Elaphe sauromates were recorded for the first time from the region. Richness in the forest patches, habitat use by the recorded species, and interspecific interactions are discussed to explain the conspicuous patterns observed in the species distributions. The unique distribution pattern of Phoenicolacerta laevis among the existing forest patches represents the most prominent finding, with implications for a recent introduction. The fossorial species Xerotyphlops vermicularis, Blanus strauchi, and Eryx jaculus are unlikely to occur in the Oriental Sweetgum forest due to annual flooding. The data obtained during this study will be transferred to the Oriental Sweetgum forest conservation action plan (2019–2024) as part of the biodiversity monitoring tools for use in the long-term conservation of these forests.
Bozkurt, M.A. (2018) -
This study was aimed to determine the amphibian and reptilian species of Sanliurfa Kizilkuyu Wildlife Conservation and Development Area. For this study, Adiyaman University Zoology Museum (ZMADYU) samples as well as the results of the field survey that was carried out between 2016 November-2018 May, were evaluated. As a result of the relevant literature and field studies; 1 chelonian species (Testudo graeca), 3 anuran amphibians species (Bufotes variabilis, Pelophylax ridibundus and Hyla savignyi), 11 lizards (Stellagama stellio, Mediodactylus heterocercus, Eublepharis angramainyu, Heremites auratus, H. vittatus, Chalcides ocellatus, Eumeces schneideri, Ophisops elegans, Apathya cappadocica, Trapelus lessonae and Varanus griseus) and 11 snake species (Malpolon insignitus, Platyceps najadum, Eirenis eiselti, E. occidentalis, Xerotyphlops vermicularis, Myriopholis macrorhyncha, Letheobia episcopus, Eryx jaculus, Macrovipera lebetina and Walterinnesia morgani) totally 26 herptil species were determined in the study area. L. episcopus is an endemic species to Sanliurfa among these species. The E. angramainyu is known only from Sanliurfa in Turkey. According to IUCN data; 1 species is in Critical (VU), 10 species are in least concern (LC), 3 species are data deficient (DD) and 12 species are in not evaluated (NE) state. According to the BERN Conservation 5 species are in appendix II and 21 species are in appendix III. Also, according to the CITES Conservation 3 species are in appendix II and 23 species are not included in the appendix lists. 48 amphibian and reptilian species have been determined in Sanliurfa until now. As a result of the present study, it was determined that Sanliurfa Kizilkuyu Wildlife Conservation and Development Area, consist os 54.17’% of the herpetofauna of Sanliurfa province.
Braak, H. (1967) -
The organon vasculosum hypothalami of Lacerta viridis was investigated by means of light- and electron microscopy. Beneath the ependyma a strongly vascularized nucleus of small bipolar nerve cells was found. No relation could be found between the ultrastructure of the cells and their content of histochemically traceable catecholamines. The clublike processes of neuroplasm penetrate the ventricle and form a dense plexus with cilia and other cell processes. There is a possibility that biogenic amines are secreted through the nerve cell processes into the cerebrospinal fluid. A second type of cell, forming a superficial layer, and the adjacent nucleus ventromedialis tuberis also send processes into the ventricle. It is supposed that these processes have a receptor function.
Braak, H. & Baumgarten, H.G. & Falck, B. (1968) -
The distribution of 5-hydroxytryptamine in the central nervous system of the lizards Lacerta viridis and muralis was investigated with the fluorescence method of Falck and Hillarp. Microspectrometric analyses revealed that the yellow fluorescence had the characteristics of the fluorophore of 5-hydroxytryptamine and chemical determinations on whole brains demonstrated the presence of considerable quantities of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5,2–6,4 μg/g). Nuclear areas of the mesencephalon, di and telencephalon, which are mainly intercalated in sensory pathways, receive terminal ramifications of 5-hydroxytryptaminecontaining neurons. These fibres are presumed to originate from cells situated in the tegmentum. The nucleus reticularis mesencephali is shown to contain numerous perikarya of nerve cells rich in 5-hydroxytryptamine.
Bradshaw, S.D. & Saint Girons, H. & Bradshaw, F.J. (1991) -
Rates of turnover of oxygen, water and sodium were measured in free-ranging and captive Lacerta viridis in western France during their period of reproduction in May, and again in late autumn prior to their entering winter hibernation. Rates of C02 production and turnover of water and sodium in captive lizards showed little significant variation and these animals appeared to be buffered to a large extent from environmental changes, even though they were exposed to external climatic influences. Overall means for rates of CO2 production in free-ranging individuals did not vary statistically between seasons but considerable individual variation was observed during the breeding season in May. The animals could be divided into `active` and `inactive` groups on the basis of their rate of CO2 production and other significant differences were apparent between these two groups: `active` individuals had increased rates of sodium turnover, lower body water contents and lost body mass during the period of observation whereas the `inactive` individuals gained mass over the same period. These data suggest that not all individuals necessarily participate in the activity associated with breeding in spring in this species and further behavioural studies would seem appropriate in the light of these physiological data. Calculation of the `Water Effectiveness Index` for this species from the ratio of water to energy turnover suggests that Lacerta viridis is a profligate utiliser of available resources when compared with similar-sized species of lizards inhabiting desert environments.
Bradshaw, S.D. & Saint Girons, H. & Naulleau, G. & Nagy, K.A. (1987) -
Rates of turnover of water, energy and sodium were measured in free-ranging and enclosed Lacerta viridis and Vipera aspis at a site in Western France in late summer. Rates of CO2 production did not differ significantly between free-ranging Lacerta and those maintained in large outdoor enclosures and averaged 0.371 ± 0.056 mL(g.hr)-1 which was significantly greater (P < 0.05) than the rate of 0.152 ± 0.02 mL(g.hr)-1 recorded for Vipera aspis living in similar outdoor enclosures. Rates of water, but not sodium, turnover were significantly greater in free-ranging than in enclosed Lacerta (12.03 ± 1.21 mL(100g.day)-1 versus 7.46 ± 1.03 mL(100g.day)-1 respectively), suggesting that the free-ranging individuals, which were captured along a canal, had access to a source of free water not linked with their diet. Field Metabolic Rates (FMR) of Lacerta were positively and significantly correlated with the rate of water turnover and analysis of influx and efflux data indicate that this lizard requires on the average approximately 8mL(100g.day)-1 of water to maintain its hydric balance. A similar analysis suggests that this species requires roughly 1meq(kg.day)-1 of sodium for the maintenance of electrolyte balance. Rates of sodium and water turnover were significantly correlated in captive Lacerta, the diet of which was supplemented daily with mealworms and crickets, but the correlation in the case of animals living by the canal was not significant, indicating again that sources of water and sodium intake were independent in these individuals. Rates of water and sodium turnover were low in the vipers maintained in external enclosures and both elements were in negative balance, as would be expected with non-feeding animals. The data reveal a small but significant intake of sodium however, which was not identified. A regression of water intake versus rate of weight loss suggest that Vipera aspis requires an intake of approximately 2.5mL(100g.day)-1 to maintain hydric balance under these conditions. The data reported here for FMR`s and rates of water turnover are compared with those for other lizards in the literature and suggest that Lacerta viridis falls mid-way between desert and tropical species studied to date. Further work with temperate-living species should prove of value in delineating the physiological capacities of terrestrial reptiles.
Brakels, P. & Koopmans, F. & Rubio, J.L. (2010) -
We report the first record of Algyroides marchi, Valverde 1958 in the Autonomous Community of the Region of Murcia, Southeast Spain. The species was found during a field excursion in the mountains of the municipality of Moratalla. This record results in a significant extension of the known distribution of the species, currently considered to be restricted to the Prebetic Mountains (Southeastern Spain) in the Autonomous Communities of Andalucía and Castilla-La Mancha, being therefore of great importance for the conservation programs at the national level.
Bramke, K. (2012) -
Bramke, K. (2014) -
Brana, F. (1984) -
Braña, F. (1986) -
Braña, F. (1991) -
Body temperature of active Podarcis muralis from Norena (Asturias; Northern Spain) during summer averages 33.8 degree C (SD = 2.0, n = 116), and similar values were found in other close populations (grand mean: 33.8 degree C, SD = 2.3, n = 171). There were no significant differences neither in body temperatures between populations nor between sex/age groups within populations. Daily activity pattern is bimodal, with depressed activity during the warmer hours at the midday. This pattern of activity, as well as the significant negative correlation between the percentage of lizards at sun and the environmental temperatures, are indicative of behavioural thermoregulation. The standard deviations of the mean body temperature and the slopes of the regressions of body temperature on environment temperatures are indicative of a relatively imprecise thermoregulation. Populations from the highest altitudes show a higher variability in body temperature and a greater dependence on the thermal environment.
Braña, F. (1993) -
Average field body temperatures of pregnant female Podarcis muralis (32.62°C) were significantly lower than that of males and non-pregnant females (overall average: 33.74°C). However, when tested in terrarium with a strong thermal gradient in a limited space, which represents a low-cost environment for thermoregulation, neither body temperature nor position in the thermal gradient differed among groups of sex and reproductive condition. Body temperatures selected in thermal gradient (overall average: 33.77°C) was similar to those exhibited in the field by males and non-pregnant females. This means that low body temperature exhibited by pregnant females in the field is not a consequence of a change of the thermal preferences at this stage, but might be explained on the basis of constraints related to their reproductive condition. Pregnant females stay closer to the refuge and allow approach to a shorter distance than do males and non-pregnant females. Approach distance was partially explained by the distance to refuge, but even when the effects of the distance to refuge were removed by applying the residuals of the regression, the approach distance for pregnant females was significantly lower than for other individuals. This reflects the existence of a behavioural component of motion-less in addition to the tendency to remain closer to a shelter, and means a shift in the predator-avoidance tactic from flight to crypsis, presumably because effectiveness of the flight tactic would be reduced during pregnancy. The behavioural changes associated with pregnancy may preclude careful thermoregulation, as this requires frequent movements to exploit the variability of the thermal environment.
Braña, F. (1996) -
Die Arbeit basiert auf der Messung verschiedener metrischer Charaktere (Kopf-Rumpf-Länge, Kopflänge, maximale Kopfhöhe, maximale Kopfbreite und Rumpf-Länge) an insgesamt knapp 500 nordspanischen Eidechsen. In die Analyse gingen Mesungen an Podarcis bocagei, Podarcis hispanica, Podarcis muralis, Lacerta monticola, Lacerta vivipara, Lacerta lepida, Lacerta schreiberi, Lacerta viridis (=L. bilineata) ein. Demnach ist das ontogenetische Wachstum von Kopf und Rumpf bei männlichen Tieren isometrisch, während Weibchen hingegen ein allometrisches Wachstum des Rumpfes aufweisen. Mit der verwendeten Methodik (Felsenstein) ließ sich der Geschlechtsdimorphismus am besten durch den weiblichen Fortpflanzungsaufwandes (u. a. Gelegegröße) und damit durch die überproportionale Rumpflänge weiblicher Tiere erklären. Bei Arten mit geringer Fruchtbarkeit bzw. konstanter Gelegegröße (hier: Podarcis hispanica) besteht hingegen nur ein geringer Selektionsdruck in Richtung auf große Weibchen. Dann können Männchen zum größten Geschlecht werden. Ebenfalls durchgeführte Größenmessungen an Beutetieren (Magen-Darminhalte) ergaben vergleichsweise gering abweichende Einnischungen männlicher und weiblicher Eidechsen. Eine Analyse der Mechanismen, die zur Ausprägung von Geschlechtsdimorphismen beitragen, ist sicherlich verdienstvoll. Allerdings ist fraglich, ob die hier verwendeten Methoden allein zu einer befriedigenden Klärung führen. Zum einen wurden pro Art nur wenige Individuen (zwischen 22 und 90) untersucht, was - auch nach Ansicht des Autors - statistisch unbefriedigend ist. Wichtiger dürfte aber wohl sein, dass keinerlei Hinweise darauf vorliegen, inwieweit die aus einem relativ begrenzten Gebiet stammenden Freilandfänge als “typisch“ für die Art gelten können. Hinzu kommt, dass sich mit der verwendeten Methode nur die Parameter weiblicher Fortpflanzungsaufwand und unterschiedliche Nahrungseinnischung, nicht jedoch der dritte vom Autor angesprochene Parameter “Kämpfe zwischen den Männchen“ untersuchen lässt. Zumindest in diesem Kontext bedarf es weiterer Daten, die nur durch Verhaltensbeobachtungen lebender Eidechsen zu gewinnen sind.
Braña, F. (2003) -
Locomotion of lizards has clear morphological determinants and is important for developing activities such as feeding, social interaction and predator avoidance. Thus, morphological variation is believed to have fitness consequences through affecting locomotor performance. This paper firstly evaluates the dependence of burst speed on morphology, and secondly examines the movement patterns of free-ranging undisturbed wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) engaged in several kinds of activity. Body size was the most important correlate of burst speed as performed at the optimal temperature for running in the laboratory. After removing size effects from performance and morphological traits, the length of some particular limb segments had positive influence on burst speed, but these effects were weak, each trait explaining less than 16% of variance in burst speed. Free-ranging P. muralis exhibited intermittent locomotion, with movement sequences interrupted by frequent short pauses. Field movement patterns greatly differed depending upon the kind of activity and were in most aspects independent of the size and sex of the animal. P. muralis involved in thermoregulation performed short and low-speed displacements; exploratory activities were characterized by frequent, slow and short movements. On the contrary, lizards involved in intraspecific pursuits and predator escape developed comparatively high speeds, although only exceptionally did they attain the size-specific burst speed predicted from the laboratory trials. Speed of escape increased with distance to the refuge and the animals are able to assess predation risks to modulate approach distance, speed and pauses, so maximum exertion is seldom required. The evolution of locomotor capacities exceeding routine needs is discussed in the context of the principle of ‘excessive construction’.
Brana, F. (2008) -
In many litter-bearing mammals and in a few viviparous reptiles the sex ratio of the entire brood or the sex of the adjacent fetuses induces sex-speciWc diVerences in the hatchling’s phenotype. This study examines whether the sex of incubation neighbours aVects hatchling characteristics in oviparous common lizards (Lacerta vivipara). Oviparous common lizards lay eggs with thin eggshells and, therefore, are an optimal model organism for studying the eVects of hormone leakage among developing embryos since the strongest evidence for prenatal sex ratio eVects on oVspring development comes from viviparous populations of the same species. Groups of three eggs were incubated together and were categorised according to the sex of the resulting hatchlings as either homosex (three hatchlings of the same sex) or heterosex (one male or one female hatchling plus two siblings of the opposite sex). Hatchlings incubated adjacent to siblings of the same sex had larger body mass and body condition. Males tended to have lower ventral scale counts when incubated with other males. Conversely, females tended to have more ventral scales when incubated with other females, indicative of a more feminised phenotype. There was also a signiWcant interaction between hatchling sex and incubation environment with respect to the length of the fourth digit of the hindlimb, likely indicative of masculinisation in heterosex females. This study suggests steroid diVusion between adjacent eggs in a minimally manipulative experiment and provides the Wrst evidence for developmental eVects of the exogenous hormonal environment in near natural conditions in an oviparous amniote. Implications of these results for the evolution of within-clutch sex ratio are discussed.
Brana, F. & Arrayago, M.J. (1997) -
Braña, F. & Arrayago, M.J. & Bea, A. & Barahona, A. (1990) -
Male reproductive and fat body cycles were studies both in a mountain and a lowland population of the lizard Lacerta monticola cantabrica. Specimens were collected at two localities in Asturias (Northern Spain): Vegadeo (100 m a.s.l.) and Aramo (1450 m a.s.l.). General patterns of spermatogenesis in both populations were similar, and agree with the mixed type proposed by Saint Girons (1963). Spermatogenesis and testicular growth start in August and spermiogenesis begins in early autumn; before hibernation (October) spermiogenesis ceases earlier in the mountain than in the lowland population. The culminative phase of spermatogenesis and the testis weight peak occur after the onset of spring activity; there is then a progressive decrease that lasts until the end of the female`s ovulation cycle in July. Recrudescence of epididymides occurs mainly in late winter-early spring, with a pronounced development just after emergence from wintering; there is a delay in the epididymis peak of the mountain population. Both populations show an abrupt epididymal decline in the summer, between June and August. Fat bodies begin to increase in summer, just after the end of the reproductive period, reaching maximum weights in autumn prior to wintering. Pre-hibernation fat body weights for males at the two elevations are nearly the same (about 2% of body weight on average), but winter consumption is much larger in the lowland population in which there is some activity during this period. Fat bodies are not depleted at emergence and the remaining stores are utilized during the spring reproductive period, leading to minimum levels in June in both populations.
Braña, F. & Bea, A. (1987) -
Brana, F. & Bea, A. (2002) -
Braña, F. & Bea, A. & Arrayago, M.J. (1991) -
We examined stages of embryonic development at the time of oviposition in 10 populations of seven species of lacertids from northern Spain, including one of the few species of lizards that exhibits reproductive bimodality (Lacerta vivipara). In the species studied, embryonic development at the time of oviposition ranges, as a whole, from stage 22-34 in the classification of Dufaure and Hubert, showing highly significant differences between populations. Lacerta vivipara (two populations; stages from 30-34) and L. monticola (28-31) are the species with a more advanced intrauterine embryogenesis, while at the opposite end one can find Podarcis bocagei (22-26) and P. hispanica (two subspecies: stages from 24-27). Lacerta viridis, L. schreiberi and P. muralis are in an intermediate situation (stages 25-29), without appreciable differences among species. Our data show that species with more advanced egg retention reach the highest elevations in the study area, and there also seems to exist a relationship between the egg retention level and the northern distribution limit for oviparous lizards in Europe. However, there is no evidence of intraspecific variability in that regard. No significant correlations were found between developmental stage at oviposition and female size, clutch size, or egg mass, but relative clutch mass (RCM) was significantly larger in species with a more advanced embryonic development at oviposition. This difference in RCM was mainly due to an increase in clutch size (adjusted for female size) and not to an increase in the mass of individual eggs, which tended to be lower in relation to female mass in those species with a more prolonged egg retention.
Braña, F. & González, F. & Barahona, A. (1992) -
Braña, F. & Ji, X. (2000) -
Eggs of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) were incubated at three temperatures approaching the upper limit of viability for embryonic development in this species (26, 29, and 32°C) to assess the influence of temperature on various aspects of hatchling phenotype likely affecting fitness. The thermal environment affected size and several morphometric characteristics of hatchling lizards. Hatchlings from eggs incubated at 32°C were smaller (snout-vent length, SVL) than those from 26 and 29°C and had smaller mass residuals (from the regression on SVL) as well as shorter tail, head, and femur relative to SVL. Variation in the level of fluctuating asymmetry in meristic and morphometric traits associated with incubation temperatures was quite high but not clearly consistent with the prediction that environmental stress associated with the highest incubation temperatures might produce the highest level of asymmetry. When tested for locomotor capacity in trials developed at body temperatures of 32 and 35°C, hatchlings from the 32°C incubation treatment exhibited the worst performance in any aspect considered (burst speed, maximal length, and number of stops in the complete run). Repeated measures ANCOVAs (with initial egg mass as covariate) of snout-vent length and mass of lizards at days 0 and 20 revealed significant effects of incubation temperature only for mass, being again the hatchlings from eggs incubated at 32°C those exhibiting the smallest final size. All together, our results evidenced a pervasive effect of thermal regime during incubation (and hence of nest site selection) on hatchling phenotypes. However, incubation temperature does not affect hatchling phenotypes in a continuous way; for most of the analysed traits a critical threshold seems to exist between 29 and 32°C, so that hatchlings incubated at 32°C exhibited major detrimental effects.
Braña, F. & Ji, X. (2007) -
The thermal environment during development influences many aspects of the phenotype of hatchling reptiles. We hypothesized that temperature should differentially affect early incubation stages, in which differentiation dominates over growth, and late incubation stages, characterized by high growth rates. To test this idea, we incubated eggs of wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) under three regimes with the same mean temperature (29 °C), one constant and two variable with opposite sequences: first cold (25 °C) and then hot (32 °C), and vice versa. Hatchlings incubated at high temperature during the initial period had shorter hindlimbs and tails than those incubated under the other two temperature regimes and shorter heads than those incubated initially at low temperature. Thus, temperature experienced by embryos during the early external incubation period produced similar phenotypic responses compared to those reported in previous studies for the same constant temperature applied over the whole incubation period. Because female wall lizards select lower body temperatures during pregnancy, an increase of intrauterine retention would extend the time of exposure of developing embryos to suitable temperatures. Diminution of body temperature during pregnancy is contrary to the expected pattern under the hypothesis that egg retention has evolved to accelerate development, as proposed by the cold-climate model for evolution of viviparity in squamates, and the results of the present study support the alternative hypothesis of developmental optimization as a special case of the broader maternal manipulation view.
Branch, B. (1988) -
Branch, B. (2003) -
Branch, B. (2018) -
Southeast Angola has remained poorly studied as the extensive wetlands make movement difficult, as do the wide-spread land mines scattered during the long civil war. Due to its biodiversity and scenic beauty the Okavango Delta of Botswana was declared a World Heritage Site in 2014. Its survival as a functioning ecosystem and the world’s only major inland delta depends on the waters that flow south from Angola. These wetlands form the catchments for three of southern central Africa’s major river systems, the Zambezi, Kwanza and Okavango drainages. The herpetological survey formed part of the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project (NGOWP), initiated to survey the extraordinary biodiversity of the region, and to assess the current state of these important wetlands and identify any impacts on them. This is a personal overview of the trip, and the scientific details are given elsewhere (Conradie et al. 2016). Material is accessioned into the Port Elizabeth Museum (South Africa) and ISCED, Lubango (Angola) collections. The NGOWP surveys (2015–17) to the watersheds form the most extensive regional herpetological surveys in the history of Angola. The survey documented 110 species from the region, comprising 38 snakes, 32 lizards, five chelonians, a single crocodile and 34 amphibians. Seven species were new for Angola, and others were added during the 2016–17 trips. A recur- rent feature of these surveys was the regular discovery of specimens that could not be assigned confidently to known taxa. Numerous new species have been identified; some have been described, for others research is ongoing.
Branch, W.R. (1980) -
Branch, W.R. (1981) -
A checklist of the lizards of the Cape Province, South Africa is presented. A total of 143 species and subspecies is recognized. The taxonomic status of no less than 84 (59,1%) of these has changed since the last review of the Cape lizards by FitzSimons (1943). Comments on the distribution and taxonomic status of problematic groups are included.
Branch, W.R. (1985) -
Branch, W.R. (1988) -
Branch, W.R. (1989) -
Reptiles are gonochorists (with the exception of a few parthenogenetic lizards and a single snake) and have relatively few young. Hermaphroditism is absent, possibly due to the existence of internal fertilisation and the complexity of the associated genitalia. Environmental sex determination (ESD) is known in 2 lizards, most chelonians and all crocodilians so far studied. Its significance is obscure. Previous explanations, based on presumed selective advantages of sex-related hatchling size differences, seem improbable due to both groups slow attainment of sexual maturity. It is proposed that a more likely advantage is the ability to produce highly skewed sex ratios by behavioural selection for nesting site choice. Both orders are the most fecund reptiles and suffer high juvenile mortality. The direction of sex determination differs between crocodilians and chelonians (high incubation temperatures produce males and females, respectively.) The evolution of heteromorphic sex chromosomes has occurred independently many times in squamates, and in one chelonian, and this may be correlated with the undesirability of ESD in short-lived species with low fecundity. Parental care is almost completely absent, reaching its highest expression among crocodilians and certain anguid lizards. All young, including those of species showing parental care, are precocial and immediately feed exogenously. The absence of altricial young is possibly due to the difficulty of food handling between adults and young. Viviparity is found only among squamates, where it has evolved independently on numerous occasions. Its evolution is usually associated with cold climates, although certain other traits (e.g. the possession of venom and/or the existence of maternal brooding) may serve as pre-adaptations. Analysis of the effects of size and phylogeny on patterns of co-variation in certain squamate life-history traits reveals that although many variables scale allometrically with body size, significant variation in clutch size and age at maturity remains at order, family and generic level. The size and mass of females and their clutches may vary between populations and years, reflecting phenotypic plasticity to proximate environmental factors. Relative Clutch Mass (RCM — the ratio of female body mass to clutch mass) is correlated with foraging mode and predator escape tactics in lizards (but not in snakes) and with reproductive mode (i.e. viviparity) in snakes.
Branch, W.R. (1990) -
Numerous new distribution records are given for 19 amphibian, 3 tortoise, 32 lizard, and 15 snake species and subspecies in the Cape Province, particularly in the eastern and central karroid regions. Many species are shown to have much wider distributions than previously believed. The importance of the mountains of the inland escarpment as a refugium for temperate species, the presence of isolated populations of western arid species in the karroid valleys of the northern Cape Fold Mountains, and the possible vicariant effects caused by sea level fluctuations on species inhabiting the southern Cape coastal plain, are briefly discussed.
Branch, W.R. (1993) -
Branch, W.R. (1998) -
Branch, W.R. (1999) -
Southern Africa has the richest reptile diversity in Africa, with a fauna that currently exceeds 490 species. Present rates of discovery, which for lizards are still comparable to those in the early phases of exploration, indicate that the fauna may approach, if not exceed, 600 species. Lizards form the dominant component (60.9%) of the reptile fauna. The 578 recognised taxa (species and subspecies) were described by 101 authors, of which 12 authors were responsible for 12 or more taxa and together named 68.9% of the total taxa. The five most productive authors were, in order: A. Smith, W. Peters, D. Broadley, J. Hewitt, and V. FitzSimons. The contributions of these authors, the growth in herpetological studies in the last 25 years, and the importance of regional surveys in the development of biogeographic models, are summarised. Over 50 species of reptile have very restricted distributions (less than 3 quarter-degree grid squares) and may be of conservation concern. Despite national rhetoric evincing concern for the biodiversity crisis, there has been a recent decline in herpetological posts and manpower.
Branch, W.R. (2006) -
Branch, W.R. (2013) -
Branch, W.R. & Baard, E.H.W. & Haacke, W.D. & Jacobsen, N. & Ponton, J.C. & Broadley, D.G. (1988) -
Branch, W.R. & Braack, H.H. (1987) -
The results of a survey of the reptiles and amphibians of the Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) are presented. A total of 49 species, comprising 16 amphibians, 14 lizards, 15 snakes and 4 chelonians, occur in the AENP. Observations on the biology and distribution of these species in the AENP are given, and the relative composition and diversity is compared with the herpetofauna of the surrounding eastern Cape and the more distant Kruger National Park. The zoogeographic affinities of the AENP herpetofauna are similar to those of the surrounding eastern Cape (i.e. Cape Temperate 46,9, Temperate- Transitional 16,3, Eastern Tropical Transitional 10,2, Western Tropical Transitional 8,2, Tropical East Coast Littoral 2,0 and Temperate Wideranging 16,3). Resource partitioning among the AENP herpetofauna is discussed and the conservation status of the species summarised. A list of species that may still be collected within the AENP is included.
Branch, W.R. & Broadley, D.G. (1985) -
Branch, W.R. & Burger, M. (2009) -
Branch, W.R. & Conradie, W. & Vaz Pinto, P. & Tolley, K.A. (2019) -
A new endemic Sandveld Lizard, genus Nucras, is described from south-western Angola. Morphologically it resembles members of the Nucras tessellata group, but it is genetically separated and is sister to the larger tessellata + lalandii group. Although the genus is generally very conservative morphologically, the new species differs from other congeners in a combination of scalation, overall dorsal color pattern, and geographic separation. The new species is known from fewer than 12 specimens collected over a period spanning 120 years from arid south-western Angola. This brings the total number of species in the genus to 12 and adds another species to the growing list of endemic species of the Namib region of Angola. This new finding further reinforces the idea that this Kaokoveld Desert region is a key biodiversity area worthy of conservation and long-term protection.
Branch, W.R. & Hanekom, N. (1987) -
An annotated check list of the herpetofauna of the Tsitsikamma National Parks is given. A total of 38 species, comprising 6 chelonians (2 tortoises, 4 sea turtles), 8 lizards, 11 snakes and 13 amphibians have been collected within the parks. The diversity of the Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park is greater than that of the Tsitsikamma Forest National Park. This is due to a number of factors, including more intensive collecting, greater area and habitat diversity, and the presence of 5 marine species. The parks are important reserves for a number of species endemic to the southern coastal region, including Bradypodion damaranum, Cordylus coeruleopunctatus, Breviceps fuscus and Afrixalus knysnae. An appendix lists a number of additional species that can still be expected to occur within the parks.
Branch, W.R. & McCartney, C.J. (1992) -
A small collection of reptiles is reported from the vicinity of Cuito Cuanavale, a herpetologically poorly-known region in southeast Angola. It contains three species of lizard (including the skink Sepsina angolensis and the first record of Ichnotropis capensis capensis from Angola), eight snake species (including the first record of Xenocalamus mechowi inomatus and third record of Mehelya capensis capensis from Angola), and the second Angolan record of the amphisbaenid Dalophia pistillum. Observations on other reptiles from the region are appended.
Branch, W.R. & Rödel, M.-O. & Marais, J. (2005) -
Significant contributions to the poorly known reptile fauna of northern Mozambique were made during a biodiversity survey of the Niassa Game Reserve (NGR), situated in northern Mozambique, bordering Tanzania. Of approximately 100 reptile species currently known from northern Mozambique, 57 species were recorded from the NGR. Important discoveries included: a new species of girdled lizard (Cordylus sp.) in rock cracks on the summit outcrops of Serra Mecula; the first national records of Melanoseps sp. and Lygodactylus angularis (both isolated populations are atypical and further studies are required to assess their taxonomic status); the first records for northern Mozambique for Chirindia swynnertoni, Lygodactylus chobiensis, Pachydactylus punctatus, Elasmodactylus tetensis, and Latastia johnstoni; the most northerly records of Pachydactylus punctatus, Agama kirkii, and Gerrhosaurus vallidus; an unusual population of Bitis arietans whose taxonomic status require further analysis; and a population of Cycloderma frenatum in the Lugenda River that fills a large gap in the species’ known distribution.
Branch, W.R. & Tolley, K.A. (2017) -
Branch, W.R. & Vaz Pinto, P. & Baptista, N. & Conradie, W. (2019) -
This review summarises the current status of our knowledge of Angolan reptile diversity, and places it into a historical context of understanding and growth. It is compared and contrasted with known diversity in adjacent regions to allow insight into taxonomic status and biogeographic patterns. Over 67% of Angolan reptiles were described by the end of the nineteenth century. Studies stagnated dur- ing the twentieth century but have increased in the last decade. At least 278 reptiles are currently known, but numerous new discoveries have been made during recent surveys, and many novelties await description. Although lizard and snake diversity is currently almost equal, most new discoveries occur in lizards, particularly geckos and lacertids. Poorly known Angolan reptiles and others from adjacent regions that may occur in the country are highlighted. Most endemic Angolan reptiles are lizards and are associated with the escarpment and southwest arid region. Identification of reptile diversity hotspots are resolving but require targeted surveys for their delimitation and to enable protection. These include the Kaokoveld Centre of Endemism, Angolan Escarpment and the Congo forests of the north. The fauna of Angola remains poorly known and under-appreciated, but it is already evident that it forms an important centre of African reptile diversity and endemism.
Brandjes, G.J. & Groenveld, A. (1995) -
Brandl, R. & Völkl, W. (1988) -
In the madeiran lizard, Podarcis dugesii (Milne-Edwards, 1829) adult animals force juveniles to use pessimal habitats with few escape sites. Consequently, juvenile individuals in populations with a high density show the highest rate of tail breaks.
Brändle, M. & Rödel, M.-O. (1994) -
Within ten years, data on twenty amphibian and thirty reptile species from the Iberian Peninsula were collected. The excursions were mainly centred on the northeast of Spain and the Extremadura. We report ob- servations on Salamandra salamandra almanzoris MÜLLER & HELLMICH, 1935, Rana pereti SEOANE, 1885, Lacerta viridis (LAURENTI, 1768), Lacerta monticola BOULENGER, 1905, and Malpolon monspes- sulanus (HERMANN, 1804). Additionally, all herpetological records and brief descriptions of the correspond- ing habitats are listed.
Brandt, E. (1867) -
Brandt, E. (1868) -
Brandt, I. & Feuerriegel, K. (2004) -
Brandt, I. & Hamann, K. & Hammer, W. (2018) -
Brandt, T. & Buschmann, H. (2004) -
The following work summarizes and updates the current knowledge on the reptile and amphibian species of the landscape protection area »Wetland of international importance Steinhuder Meer« by numerous original distribution maps and analysis of all available observations. The results show that the landscape protection area is of important significance for the herpetofauna. A total of eleven amphibian and six reptile species were confirmed, and their distribution within the landscape protection area is shown on grid maps. The species are: Triturus vulgaris, T. cristatus, Bufo bufo, B. calamita, Pelobates fuscus, Hyla arborea, Rana temporaria, R. arvalis, R. esculenta, R. lessonae, R. ridibunda, Anguis fragilis, Zootoca vivipara, Lacerta agilis, Natrix natrix, Coronella austriaca and Vipera berus. The species with the largest distribution range within the amphibians and the reptiles, respectively, were Rana arvalis and Natrix natrix. Hyla arborea has disappeared from the area. The preferred habitat distribution of each species in the main habitats is presented and discussed, as well as the decrease or increase of particular species, and the underlying causes. Finally, conservation measures for the herpetofauna of the area are considered.
Braun, M. (1877) -
Braun, M. (1883) -
Braun, M. (1886) -
Braun, M. & Braun, U. (1995) -
Brauner, A.A. (1903) -
Brauner, A.A. (1905) -
Braux, J.-P. (1983) -
Bravo, L.G. & Belliure, J. & Rebollo, S. (2009) -
Mammals that build extensive open burrow systems are often classified as ecosystem engineers, since they have the potential to modulate the availability of resources for themselves and other organisms. Lizards may benefit from the heterogeneity created by these structures, especially if coupled with an increased offer of sites for refuge and thermoregulation. However, information about these engineering effects by burrowing animals is scarce. We investigated the influence of European rabbit burrows on several parameters of a Mediterranean lizard community (abundance, density, diversity and body condition) in three different habitats (open pastures, holm oak and scrub patches). We found that lizards were positively associated with burrows, and that burrows determined lizard presence at otherwise unfavourable habitats. Moreover, community parameters such as density and species richness were higher in sites with burrows. Burrows influenced lizard species in different ways, and were also relevant for other Mediterranean vertebrates, as revealed by questionnaires to experts. We also explored the possible resources provided by burrows for lizards. Warrens offer relatively abundant prey and appropriate retreat sites for refuge and thermoregulation. Warrens may have further implications within the ecosystem, acting as stepping stones, allowing lizards to reach otherwise inaccessible habitat patches. This study shows that European rabbit warrens have a positive influence on lizard density and diversity, and confirms the role of rabbits as ecosystem engineers. This reinforces the need for appropriate conservation measures for rabbits, especially given their threatened status in the Iberian Peninsula. Furthermore, our study highlights that taking into account the influence of engineering activities increases our awareness of species interactions, and may translate into more adequate conservation measures for the preservation of biodiversity.
Bravo, T. (1953) -
Bravo, T. (1954) -
Brecko, J. & Huyghe, K. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Herrel, A. & Grbac, I. & Van Damme, R. (2008) -
Within populations, individual animals may vary considerably in morphology and ecology. The degree to which variation in morphology is related to ecological variation within a population remains largely unexplored. We investigated whether variation in body size and shape among sexes and age classes of the lizard Podarcis melisellensis translates in differential whole-animal performance (sprint speed, bite force), escape and prey attack behaviour in the field, microhabitat use and diet. Male and female adult lizards differed significantly in body size and head and limb proportions. These morphological differences were reflected in differences in bite strength, but not in sprint speed. Accordingly, field measurements of escape behaviour and prey attack speed did not differ between the sexes, but males ate larger, harder and faster prey than females. In addition to differences in body size, juveniles diverged from adults in relative limb and head dimensions. These shape differences may explain the relatively high sprint and bite capacities of juvenile lizards. Ontogenetic variation in morphology and performance is strongly reflected in the behaviour and ecology in the field, with juveniles differing from adults in aspects of their microhabitat use, escape behaviour and diet.
Breda, R.V. van (2023) -
An extensive Herpetofaunal survey of three under researched areas in North–eastern Namibia (all forming part of the Khaudum Ngamiland dispersal area) was conducted. The areas in question were the Nyae Nyae conservancy, Khaudum national park, and a small area of Mahango–Divundu, which borders the Okavango river approximately 75 km into the Caprivi strip. A preliminary checklist and desktop study of the areas was conducted based on known ranges and occurrences of Southern–African amphibian and reptile species, supplementing the survey. During the expedition 17 amphibian species representing 13 genera and 10 families, and 22 reptile species representing 19 genera and 12 families were encountered. Genetic sequencing of the 16S ribosomal gene was done for 20 specimens to confirm their identity. Phylogenetic trees of two species and ecological niche models of four species were created, supplementing scientific knowledge regarding the herpetofauna of this part of Namibia. This study provides the first record of adult specimens of an undescribed Pyxicephalus specie, as well as the first genetic data of Ichnotropis grandiceps.
Bree, H. van & Plantaz, R. & Zuiderwijk, A. (2006) -
In 2000, an isolated population of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) was discovered on an island in the Netherlands. The population-size was estimated at 57 adult individuals. Subsequently, the area has been improved to make the habitat more suitable for sand lizards. After 5 years of monitoring the population-size was estimated again. There are no indications for major population-size changes, for the population-size is estimated at 59 adult individuals. There is no signifi cant difference in the population structure, although males were more abundant in 2005 than in 2001. Males outnumbered females in both years. The newly made dunes are populated by males, females and sub-adults. Gulls do not seem to conduct a predator stress, as there were no lizards seen there with autotomy. Nevertheless, gulls are believed to negatively infl uence habitat quality for the lizards. On the short term, cats seem to be the biggest threat to the sand lizards as there are strong indications that they have killed 10 % of the whole population within six weeks.
Bree, P.J.H. van (1958) -
Bree, P.J.H. van (1960) -
Breedveld, M.C. (2015) -
Breedveld, M.C. & Fitze, P.S. (2015) -
Reproductive success is determined by the presence and timing of encounter of mates. The latter depends on species-specific reproductive characteristics (e.g., initiation/duration of the mating window), season, and reproductive strategies (e.g., intensity of choosiness) that may potentially mitigate constraints imposed by mating windows. Despite their potentially crucial role for fitness and population dynamics, limited evidence exists about mating window initiation, duration, and reproductive strategies. Here, we experimentally tested the mechanisms of initiation and the duration of the common lizard`s Zootoca vivipara mating window by manipulating the timing of mate encounter and analyzing its effect on (re-)mating probability. We furthermore tested treatment effects on female reproductive strategies by measuring female choosiness. The timing of mate encounter and season did not significantly affect mating probability. However, a longer delay until mate encounter reduced female choosiness. Re-mating probability decreased with re-mating delay and was independent of mating delay. This indicates that mating window initiation depends on mate encounter, that its duration is fixed, and that plastic reproductive strategies exist. These findings contrast with previous beliefs and shows that mating windows per se may not necessarily constrain reproductive success, which is congruent with rapid range expansion and absence of positive density effects on reproductive success (Allee effects). In summary, our results show that predicting the effect of mating windows on reproduction is complex and that experimental evidence is essential for evaluating their effect on reproduction and reproductive strategies, both being important determinants of population dynamics and the colonization of new habitats.
Breedveld, M.C. & Fitze, P.S. (2016) -
Protandry, i.e., the earlier arrival to breeding areas of males than females, has attracted a lot of scientific attention. However, evidence for the evolutionary hypotheses of protandry is surprisingly scarce. Here, we experimentally manipulate the time of emergence from hibernation of males, relative to females, in the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara. We test whether the timing of emergence affects sperm maturation and mating success, to disentangle among proposed selective advantages of protandry. Our results experimentally demonstrate that the timing of emergence affects the date of sperm presence. Moreover, the degree of protandry affected whether males had sperm upon their first encounter with females, but it did not affect the probability of copulating. Mating occurred independent of male fertility and mating during infertility was least common in early emerging males. Early emergence from hibernation by males, relative to females, thus increases the male’s chance of fertilising eggs and later emergence from hibernation by females reduces the female’s probability of mating with infertile males. These results point to direct reproductive benefits of protandry in males and females, where earlier emergence is predicted to increase the male’s opportunities to inseminate mates, and later emergence reduces the female’s probability of copulating with infertile males. This suggests that protandry evolved due to the time required for sperm maturation after emergence from hibernation.
The benefits obtained from mating are usually condition-dependent, favouring the evolution of flexible investment during copulation; for example, in terms of invested time, energy or sperm. Flexible investment strategies are predicted to depend on the likelihood of acquiring alternative mates and therefore they should depend on the timing of mate encounter. However, scarce experimental evidence for this hypothesis exists. In the present study, we manipulated the time delay until first mating and the interval between first and second mating in the polygynandrous common lizard Zootoca vivipara. We determined treatment effects on fertilization success and copulation duration, with the latter being a proxy for investment in mating and for the quantity of transferred sperm. The duration of the second copulation decreased with increasing inter-mating interval and depended on the fertilization success of first mates. The former provides evidence for time-dependent investment strategies, most likely resulting from the progression of the female`s reproductive cycle. The fertilization success of first mates increased with increasing inter-mating interval and was higher when females were closer to ovulation, showing that flexible investment strategies significantly affected male reproductive success. This indicates fertilization assurance, which may mitigate the negative effects of low population density on reproductive success (e.g. Allee effects).
Breedveld, M.C. & San-Jose, L.M. & Romero-Diaz, C. & Roldan, E.R.S. & Fitze, P.S. (2017) -
Females of many iteroparous species face trade-offs between producing one or multiple broods per reproductive season, and over fertilizing broods with sperm from the same or different mates. Both trade-offs might be affected by the availability of males (i.e. absence/presence of males) and the timing and duration of male encounters. Here, we experimentally manipulated the duration of mate availability at the first brood and mate availability per se (i.e. absence/presence of mates) at the second brood, and tested their effects on female and male reproductive success, using the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara, as a model species. Females were either exposed to males for a long period before their first annual reproduction and they could remate before their second annual reproduction (unrestricted treatment), or they were exposed to males for a short period before their first annual reproduction and were not allowed to remate (restricted treatment). Reproductive success of first clutches was not directly affected by the duration of access to males. Remating positively affected the probability of producing a second clutch, and the proportion of viable offspring. Remating by females also affected the reproductive success of males: fewer second clutch eggs were fertilized with stored sperm in unrestricted than restricted females. Sperm presence in males was high until the end of the remating period. Our results suggest a close coevolution between male and female reproductive strategies and point to facultative skipping of second broods when fitness benefits are small. This shows that behavioural strategies are at least partially responsible for multiple annual broods. These behavioural strategies are likely to be widespread, given the multitude of taxa raising multiple broods in some but not all years, and given that in most taxa some but not all individuals produce multiple annual broods.
Breg, A. & Janota, B. & Peganc, M. & Petrovič, I. & Tome, S. & Vamberger, M. (2010) -
Brehm, A. & Harris, A.D.J. & Alves, C.D. & Jesus, J.D. & Thomarat, F.D. & Vicente, L.D. (2003) -
We sequenced the complete control region (CR) and adjacent tRNAs, partial 12S rRNA, and cytochrome b (over 3100 bp) from eight individuals of Madeiran wall lizards, Lacerta dugesii, from four distinct island populations. The tRNAs exhibit a high degree of intraspecific polymorphisms compared to other vertebrates. All CR sequences include a minisatellite that varies in length between populations but is apparently fixed within them. Variation in minisatellite length appears between populations separated by apparently very short evolutionary time spans. Many motifs identified in the CR of other vertebrates are not highly conserved, although conserved blocks are identifiable between the few published reptile CR sequences. Overall there are extensive differences in the internal organization of the reptile CR compared to the more widely studied mammals and birds. Variability in the CR is lower than in cytochrome b, but higher than in 12S rRNA. Phylogenetic analysis of these sequences produces a well-resolved estimate of relationships between populations.
Brehm, A. & Jesus, J. & Spinola, H. & Alves,C. & Vicente, L. & Harris, D.J. (2003) -
Partial sequences from two mitochondrial DNA genes, cytochrome b and 12S rRNA, were used to assess the phylogenetic re- lationships of populations of Lacerta dugesii from the volcanic Atlantic islands of Madeira, the Desertas, Porto Santo, and the Selvagens. All four-island groups are genetically distinguishable and populations within each contain similar degrees of genetic diversity. Molecular clock estimates suggest that the islands were colonized much later after their emergence compared to other Atlantic islands, possibly due to their greater geographical isolation. Mismatch analysis of all populations is consistent with ex- ponential growth, as expected after colonization of empty niches. The Selvagens contain genetic substructuring between the islets.
Brehm, A. & Khadem, M. & Jesus, J. & Andrade, P. & Vicente, L. (2001) -
Genetic differentiation among nine populations of the endemic lizard Lacerta dugesii Milne-Edwards 1829 (Lacertidae) from four groups of islands constituting the Archipelago of Madeira, was investigated by protein electrophoresis at 23 enzyme loci. Among twenty polymorphic loci, the total genetic diversity was due primarily to intra-population variation. The allele and genotypic frequencies among populations showed some heterogeneity, allowing the species to present a structuring pattern compatible with their geographical clustering. Some evidence suggests that selection actring on some loci in different ecological conditions may be responsible for the clustering of the populations studied. There was no apparent isolation effect expected under an “island” model of population divergence, and no correlation was found between genetic and geographic distances among populations. Morphological variation of the proposed three L. dugesii subspecies is not congruent with the allozyme analysis. This most probably suggest a rapid colonization of the isloands followed by a strong effect of selection operating over the morphological characters used to define the subspecies.
Brehm, A.E. (1902) -
Breinl, W. (1961) -
Breisch, A. & Jaycox, J.W. (2011) -
Brelih, S. (1954) -
Brelih, S. (1961) -
Brelih, S. (1962) -
Brelih, S. (1963) -
Brelih, S. & Džukić, G. (1974) -
Bressi N. (1995) -
Bressi, N. (1998) -
Bressi, N. (1999) -
The Herpetological Collection of the Trieste Natural History Museum has almost 700 specimens of European Sauria belonging to about 33 taxa, including all the lacertids of northern Adriatic re- gions. The origin of the collection dates back to the foundation of the Museum of Trieste in 1846, but it was increased mainly between 1871 and 1939. The Herpetological Collection of the Trieste Natural History Museum has a great scientific and historical importance; it documents the varia- tion of the composition and distribution of northern Adriatic Sauria fauna during this century, in- cluding endemic varieties typical of little islands.
Bressi, N. (2004) -
Bressi, N. (2006) -
Bressi, N. & Dall`Asta, A. (2006) -
Bretzel, J. (2019) -
Bretzel, J. & Bretzel, J. (2020) -
Brevet, M. (2022) -
In the literature, there are a lack of knowledge on how the movements of motile individuals are influenced by socially acquired information from multiple conspecifics. This thesis aims to better understand the relative importance of such information on the determinism of these movements, and its use, depending on the context, individual condition, or its nature. I began by investigating how social information provided locally by many conspecifics influences dispersal, its relative importance, and its dependence on individual phenotype. Using a 30-year markrecapture monitoring of the viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara), I was able to explore how natal dispersal depends on multiple components of the social context in the natal area, as well as other factors internal to the individual or abiotic. Results highlighted that dispersal is multi-determined, with several components of social context (sex ratio, age structure, body condition of conspecifics) having a concurrent impact. This study has highlighted, for this species, the particular relative importance of traits related to the sex of the individuals and the substrate’s characteristics. Finally, the results obtained appear to reveal a match between the competitiveness of the individual and the use of social information related to intra-specific competition. I also conducted experiments on the same species to test the ability to orientate when confronted with multiple sources of social information. For this, I considered the concurrent arrival of two conspecifics, from contrasting rearing conditions, in the habitat of a focal individual. Although no effect on orientation was observed, this experiment provided a better understanding of how information from competing sources was used on movement decisions, with the use of the mean information (resource accessibility and maternal phenotype), but not its contrast. Then, by using the same tracking as in the first part, I explored how immigrants-based information influences natal dispersal. I investigated whether its use depended on the local context and/or phenotype of the individual, as well as distance, variability, and the number of information sources. I observed that this information was used depending on the needs of the individuals (defined by their phenotype and context), and that information was preferentially used when it was not too uncertain (too variable or transmitted by too few immigrants) or in a way that minimized costs (preference for habitats similar to the one of birth when the information is distant or uncertain). Interestingly, individuals seem to prefer the same habitats locally and at a distance. Finally, experimental work was performed in microcosms to understand how conflicting social information influences dispersal in a ciliate (Tetrahymena thermophila). Although the initial treatment resulted in minimal effects on dispersal rates or dispersal syndromes, significant variance and mean effects of informant cell traits were identified. This suggests the existence of important physiological signals provided by informants, of which determinism remains to be explored. All these results underline the joint use of multiple social information, both local and distant, in individual movements such as dispersal. They highlight the importance of considering such information with the context in which it is studied, the individual who uses it, and its nature (What does it inform about? Is it reliable? Is it costly to exploit?).
Bried, J. & Neves, V.C. (2015) -
As on many other islands, most of the seabird species breeding in the Azores archipelago are now restricted to tiny remnants of their former nesting range, due mainly to the consequences of the introduction of mammals by man. Praia islet (off Graciosa island) holds six seabird species, four of which are classified as species “of Conservation Concern” in Europe and another one is considered globally “Vulnerable”. Habitat restoration, combining rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus eradication in 1997, installation of artificial nest boxes for terns in 1996 and for storm-petrels in 2000, and native plant re-introduction between 1998 and 2003, led to a noticeable recovery of vegetation cover and seabird breeding numbers. Here we present updated data concerning the population trends of the Common Tern Sterna hirundo, the Roseate Tern S. dougallii, the Madeiran Storm-petrel Hydrobates castro and the Azores-endemic Monteiro’s Storm-petrel H. monteiroi on Praia islet. Whereas storm-petrel numbers in artificial nests have kept increasing since 2000, tern numbers have been fluctuating since the mid-2000s. However, and despite the current absence of mammals on Praia islet, seabirds still face threats when breeding. Turnstones Arenaria interpres and Starlings Sturnus vulgaris granti consume tern eggs, and introduced Madeiran Lizards Lacerta dugesii may prey on Monteiro’s Storm-petrel chicks.
Briggeman, T. (2019) -
Briggeman, T. (2020) -
Briggeman, Z. (2020) -
Briggler, J.T, & Rimer, R.L. & Deichsel, G. (2015) -
Bringsoe, H. (1997) -
Bringsoe, H. (2003) -
A little herpetology during the summer holidays in Tuscany -- Scattered herpetological observations in Tuscany, Italy, from the period 25 July through 4 August 2002 are reported. Emphasis is put on a one week stay at the chåteau Castello di Modanella (locality no. 1, Fig. 1). The following species were observed around the chåteau and in an open forest: Green frogs Rana sp.), Bufo bufo, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis, P. sicula and Coluber viridiflavus (frontcover, Figs. 2-7). A remarkable posture was observed in A. fragilis as a specimen was held in two closed hands (forming a «hollow«) for about 1 minute. Held in one open hand afterwards, it remained in a hall-like position for 3-4 minutes (Fig. 3). It is interpreted as merely an extreme degree of inactivity. This habit was not recorded by Blosat (1997). Another hitherto unpublished case where A. fragilis in Denmark exhibited the same posture, is also mentioned. Only one L. bilineata was captured, a young of SVL 30.5 mm on 31 July. But since 6.0 mm of the tail length was regenerated (Fig. 4), the specimen was not newly hatched, but it may have had a SVL of some 28 mm at hatching. P. muralis and P. sicula proved abundant in the area, however, P. muralis lived in relatively shaded and cool habitats whereas P. sicula occurred in more open habitats. One C. viridiflavus was found climhing in low branches of a tree along a small dirt road in the forest (see frontcover). Chalcides chalcides was recorded in San Baronto, approx. 15 km south of Pistóia (locality 2). One C. viridiflavus was captured 20 km north of Pistóia (locality 3). At the castle Castello cli Brolio (locality 5) P. sicula was photographed while catching and eating a big moth, Macroglossum stellatarum (Fig. 11). One acdult Rana italica was observed in a forest at least 500 m away from any stream (Figs. 12-13), near Chiusi della Verna on Alpe di Catenhia (locality 6). The new book «The Lizards of Italy and Adjacent Areas» by Corti & Lo Cascio (2002) is also re viewed. In general ii is considered useful for all herpetobogists going to Italy or working with Italian lizards. Eventually, six brief hints for herpetobogists traveling in the Mediterranean are provided.
Bringsøe, H. (1985) -
Bringsøe, H. (1986) -
Bringsøe, H. (1988) -
Bringsøe, H. (1993) -
During the nineteenth century, single individuals of Gallotia galloti (OUDART 1839) have been reported from Madeira, believed to have been introduced by man. A small group has now (February 1992) been recorded in the botanical garden in the northeastern part of Funchal, assumed to be due to a recent introduction. It is speculated whether the species will be able to survive on Madeira. The climate of southern Madeira is quite similar to that of parts of the Canary Islands inhabited by G. galloti. But on the other hand, G. galloti has apparently not been able to survive on Madeira after previous introductions.
Bringsøe, H. (1995) -
The new locality record of Algyroides nigropunctatus is situated in the southern part of its range, in Central Greece north of the Gulf of Corinth. The locality is the village of Domnista, located in the Panaetolikon mountain massif in the southern part of the Nomos of Evrytanias and the Eparchia of Evrytanias (between Karpenisi and Nafpaktos). It is farther inland (40 km north of the Gulf of Corinth) than any other localities known from the south. The nearest known locality if Tichio, 32 km southeast of Domnista. The habitat at Domnista has an altitude of 950 m and consists of man-made stone walls, especially old houses and ruins with many crevices and cover provided by vegetation. Two specimens were observed during a 2 hour survey on May 2, 1994 whilst numerous Podarcis muralis and Lacerta trilineata were found. A. nigropunctatus is most common on the Ionian Islands and in the western coastal regions of the mainland. Cyrtopodion kotschyi also seems to have its marginal range near the new locality record of A. nigropunctatus and is similar in its coastal and insular distribution pattern, but it is particularly abundant on the Aegean islands.
Bringsøe, H. (2005) -
Lacertid species are rarely seen entering water in the wild, but a male Podarcis muralis was observed entering the water of a cold, fast-running stream voluntarily or deliberately on Mt. Dirfis on the Ae- gean island of Evvia, Greece on 19 April 2005. The lizard was not disturbed by the two observers. Figures show the lizard in the various positions during that action in its habitat. The exact reason why the lizard made this move remains unknown. It is speculated that its home range might have extended to both sides of the stream and that the shaded area that it eventually reached had better feeding opportunities.
Bringsøe, H. (2012) -
Es wird über die in Ost-Jütland, Dänemark, im Spätsommer 2009 gemachten Beobachtungen sozialer Interaktionen zwischen einer adulten weiblichen und einer juvenilen Zootoca vivipara berichtet. Die beiden Eidechsen sonnten sich auf einem Holzpfosten und blieben zwischen Regenschauern über eine Zeitspanne von 39 Minuten für die meiste Zeit eng beieinander. Dabei bezümngelten sich die Tiere regelmäßig. Andere bisher unveröffentlichte und veröffentlichte Daten über ähnliches Verhalten werden zusammengefasst. Es wird gefolgert, dass es aller Wahrscheinlichkeit nach soziale Bindungen zwischen Mutter und Jungen in viviparen (lebendgebärenden) Populationen von Z. vivipara gibt, während sie in oviparen (eierlegenden Populationen höchstwahrscheinlich fehlen. Anscheinend handelt es sich dabei um ein übliches Verhalten dieser Art, das allerdings oftmals übersehen wird.
Bringsøe, H. (2016) -
Ein neuer Nachweis von Hellenolacerta graeca aus Kaiafas auf der westlichenPeloponnes, Griechenland, in einer Höhe von 10-18 m ü. NN, wird gemeldet. Er bildet eine westliche Erweiterung des bisher bekannten Verbreitungsgebietes von etwa 26 km. Zwei Individuen wurden in einem trockenen Lebensraum von Kalksteinfelsen beobachtet. Eine große Population von Emys orbicularis wurde im Kaiafas-See (Kaiafas-Lagune) registriert, der eine hohe Konzentration von Schwefel- und Mineralstoffen aufweist und aus Brackwasser besteht. Ein Auftreten von Wasserschildkröten in derartig schwefelhaltigen Gewässern ist ungewöhnlichund sollte erforscht werden. Außerdem wurden Pelophylax kurtmuelleri in einem angrenzenden Tümpel (aber nicht im See) sowie Podarcis peloponnesiacus im trockenen Lebensraum in unmittelbarer Nähe zum See beobachtet.
Bringsøe, H. (2019) -
During a visit to Osor on the island Cres, Croatia, in mid August 2016 I photographed one adult Dalmatolacerta oxycephala eating a stink bug of the (family Pentatomidae). Judging from the pertinent literature it is concluded that D. oxycephala eats a wide variety of invertebrates, including scorpions, beetles and possibly even centipedes. Ripe fruit is also eaten. D. oxycephala is comfortable with humans at Osor and in other habitats visited frequently by people, whereas it proves very shy in other habitats. At Osor one Hierophis gemonensis was apparently hunting D. oxycephala in a wall.
Brinkhof, H. (2011) -
Brito e Abreu, F. & Brito, J.C. & Paulo, Octávio S. & Rosa, Humberto D. & Crespo, Eduardo G. (2001) -
Brito, J.C. (1994) -
Brito, J.C. & Brito e Abreu, F. & Paulo, O.S. & Rosa, Humberto D. & Crespo, E.G. (1996) -
The geographic distribution of the endemic Iberian lizard Lacerta schreiberi in Portugal was determined through extensive field surveys. Subsequently, a logistic regression model which predicts the probability of occurrence, based on environmental variables, was developed. We found that L. schreiberi is more widely distributed than previously thought, through most of central/northern Portugal, including the coastal zone and extending into low altitude zones. New isolated populations were also detected and the area occupied by three previously known southern isolates was enlarged. The model indicates that the distribution of L. schreiberi is largely explained by environmental parameters such as insolation, evapotranspiration, rain, humidity and soil-drainage. Values of probability of occurrence greater than 0.50, as determined by our model, correspond with the actual presence of the species.
Brito, J.C. & Crespo, E.G. & Paulo, O.S. (1999) -
We compare the results, benefits and disadvantages of two techniques for modelling wildlife species distribution: Logistic Regression and Overlap Analysis. While Logistic Regression uses mathematic equations to correlate variables with presence/absence of the species. Overlap Analysis simply combine variables with the presence points, eliminating the non-explanatory variables and recombining the others. Both techniques were performed in a Geographic Information System and we attempted to minimise the spatial autocorrelation of data. The species used was the Schreiber`s green lizard Lacerta schreiberi and the study area was Portugal, using 10 X 10 km UTM squares. Both techniques identified the same group of variables as the most important for explaining the distribution of the species. Both techniques gave high average correct classification rates for the squares with presence of the species (79% for Logistic Regression and 92% for Overlap Analysis). Correct absence classification was higher with Logistic Regression (73%) than with Overlap Analysis (32%), Overlap Analysis tends to maximise the potential area of occurrence of the species, which induces a reduced correct classification of absences, since many absences will fall in the potential area. This is because a single presence in a given class of a variable makes all the area of that class to be considered as potential. The technique does not consider that the species may occasionally occupy an unfavourable region. Although, in Logistic Regression, modelling procedures are more complex and time-consuming, the results are more statistically robust. Moreover. Logistic Regression has the capability of associating probability of occurrence to the potential area. Overlap Analysis is very simple in building procedures and swift in obtaining reliable potential areas. It is a valid technique especially in exploratory analysis of species distributions or in the initial stages of research when data may be scarce.
Brito, J.C. & Feriche, M. & Herrera, T. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Martínez-Freiría, F. & Nesbitt, D. & Omolo, D. & Ontiveros, D. & Quiñoz, L. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Santos, X. & Sillero, N. (2008) -
Brito, J.C. & Godinho, R. & Luis, C. & Paulo, O. & Crespo, E.G. (1999) -
Lacerta schreiberi is an endemic lizard in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, with some isolated populations in the south. The aims of this work are to select priority areas for the conservation of the species, identify extinction risk areas, evaluate the current degree of protection and define a strategy for the conservation of this species in Portugal. We used an evaluation model of areas in a GIS environment. Conservation priority areas represent 15% of the distribution area of the species in Portugal. Populations with high risk of extinction are located primarily along the littoral strip. About 50% of the conservation priority areas are already included in the Portuguese protected areas (PPA). The conservation strategy for the species needs efficient protection of habitats, increase of PPA and creation of Regional Reserves for the littoral populations. For the isolated populations we propose five types of management actions: habitat restoration, supplementation of populations, reintroduction of individuals, captive breeding and population monitoring.
Brito, J.C. & Luis, C. & Godinho, M.R. & Paulo, O.S. & Crespo, E.G. (1998) -
Brito, J.C. & Paulo, O.S. & Crespo, E.G. (1998) -
We describe the habitats of the endemic Iberian lizard Lacerta schreiberi in Portugal and determine those habitat components that best explain the presence of the species. The geographic distribution of L. schreiberi in Portugal was also determined through extensive field surveys. The previously known distribution area was enlarged by 150% and new isolated populations were detected. The area occupied by the three previously known southern isolates was delimited and increased by 300%. The species is usually restricted to the margins of rivers and streams. Major habitat characteristics that correlate with the presence of the species are water velocity and quality, dominant species in the tree and shrub strata, streams surrounding the biotopes, and altitude. Nevertheless, the selection patterns that L. schreiberi seems to exhibit are only a consequence of its preference for the Atlantic climate. Consequently the presence of the species in a given watercourse seems to be more dependent on the climate of that region than on the intrinsic characteristics of that watercourse.
Brito, J.C. & Pinto, I. & Rosário, I. & Pombo, I. & Monteiro, J.L. & Brito e Abreu, F. & Paulo, O.S. & Rosa, H.D. & Crespo, E.G. (1994) -
Brito, J.C. & Rebelo, H. & Crochet, P.-A. & Geniez, P. (2008) -
Brizzi, R. & Lanza, B. (1975) -
Broadley, D.G. (1959) -
Broadley, D.G. (1961) -
Broadley, D.G. (1962) -
Broadley, D.G. (1963) -
Broadley, D.G. (1965) -
Broadley, D.G. (1966) -
Broadley, D.G. (1967) -
Broadley, D.G. (1968) -
Broadley, D.G. (1971) -
Broadley, D.G. (1972) -
Broadley, D.G. (1973) -
Broadley, D.G. (1974) -
Broadley, D.G. (1975) -
Broadley, D.G. (1978) -
Broadley, D.G. (1979) -
A fourteen-month marking/recapture study of the sympatric lacertids Ichnotropis squamulosa and I. capensis (Sauria.Lacertidae) was carried out at Zimunya township near Umtali. This confirmed that these lizards have staggered life cycles and that individuals rarely live for more than 12 months, thus reducing competition for food between similar-sized lizards of the two species.
Broadley, D.G. (1988) -
Broadley, D.G. (1991) -
The amphibian fauna of northwestern Zambia was quite well known, but no systematic collection of reptiles had ever been made. This was rectified when I spent the period 23 September to 12 October 1990 based at Sakeji School near Ikelenge and collected 258 reptiles and 77 amphibians. Five reptile species are new for Zambia, i.e. Adolfus africanus, Causus lichtensteinii, Limnophis bicolor, Thrasops j. jacksonii and Rhamnophis aethiopissa ituriensis.
Broadley, D.G. (2000) -
Broadley, D.G. (2003) -
Broadley, D.G. (2004) -
This review looks at available literature on the reptiles (including terrapins, tortoises, lizards, amphisbaenians, crocodiles) and amphibians of the Four Corners trans-frontier area, which covers both wetland and dryland habitats. The zoogeography of these groups is outlined. This is followed by an annotated list of the 178 species recorded to date. Particular species ands sites of conservation interest are briefly outlined. The herpetofauna of the Four Corners area is a comparatively well studied group, although the Hwange District in northwestern Zimbabwe has received the most attention.
Broadley, D.G. (2013) -
Broadley, D.G. & Cotterill, F.P.D. (2004) -
A review of the reptiles recorded from southeast Katanga Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, employing the evolutionary species concept, indicates that there are at least 119 species in the area (7 chelonians, 37 lizards, 4 amphisbaenians, 69 snakes and 2 crocodilians), 15 of which are endemic (12.6 %). Analysis of zoogeographical affinities shows that this reptile fauna is derived from all directions, with forest forms entering from the north accounting for 14.4 % and savanna forms entering from the east contributing 22 %.
Broadley, D.G. & Howell, K.M. (1991) -
Broadley, D.G. & Masango, T.C. (1994) -
Broadley, D.G. & Rasmussen, G.S.A. (1997) -
Broadley, D.G. & Wursten, B. (2007) -
Brock, K. (2021) -
Brock, K.M. (2013) -
‘costly’ antipredator behaviors are to be selected against in the event a prey becomes isolated from predators. Predator naïveté, the ignorance of prey to threats imposed by predator species, is a phenomenon often observed on islands where limited space and resources lead to the extinction of predator species. Here, we took advantage of a Pleistocene land-bridge island system with varying degrees of predator diversity and period of isolation to explore the maintenance of antipredator behaviors in a widely distributed prey species. We report on the evolution of antipredator defenses of a model island prey species (Podarcis erhardii; Squamata, Lacertidae,), and identify the factors responsible for the expression or loss of antipredator defenses in island populations. We focus on two antipredator behaviors (flight initiation distance and caudal autotomy), which were quantified for 37 different islands and one mainland location that vary in predator diversity, isolation period, and area. The results suggest that as predator diversity is lost, both flight initiation distance and laboratory caudal autotomy defenses decrease steadily with loss of predators. Contrary to previous studies of herpetofaunal autotomy in this system, we found that field autotomy rates were significantly higher on predator-free islands, and laboratory-induced autotomy was not explained solely by the presence of vipers as reported in an earlier study. While we found that behaviors could erode relatively quickly after isolation from some predators (4 years), in general, behaviors eroded progressively with a duration of isolation with the longest isolated populations having the least expressed antipredator behaviors.
Brock, K.M. & Baeckens, S. & Donihue, C.M. & Martin, J. & Pafilis, P. & Edwards, D.L. (2020) -
Color polymorphism defies evolutionary expectations as striking phenotypic variation is maintained within a single species. Color and other traits mediate social interactions, and stable polymorphism within a population is hypothesized to be related to correlational selection of other phenotypic traits among color morphs. Here, we report on a previously unknown throat color polymorphism in the Aegean Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardii) and examine morph-correlated differences in traits important to social behavior and communication: maximum bite force capacity and chemical signal profile. We find that both sexes of P. erhardii have three color morphs: orange, yellow, and white. Moreover, orange males are significantly larger and tend to bite harder than yellow and white males. Although the established color polymorphism only partially matches the observed intraspecific variation in chemical signal signatures, the chemical profile of the secretions of orange males is significantly divergent from that of white males. Our findings suggest that morph colors are related to differences in traits that are crucial for social interactions and competitive ability, illustrating the need to look beyond color when studying polymorphism evolution.
Brock, K.M. & Bednekoff, P.A. & Pafilis, P. & Foufopoulos, J. (2015) -
Organisms generally have many defenses against predation yet may lack effective defenses if from populations without predators. Evolutionary theory predicts that ‘costly’ antipredator behaviors will be selected against when predation risk diminishes. We examined antipredator behaviors in Aegean wall lizards, Podarcis erhardii, across an archipelago of land-bridge islands that vary in predator diversity and period of isolation. We examined two defenses, flight initiation distance and tail autotomy. Flight initiation distance generally decreased with declining predator diversity. All predator types had distinctive effects on flight initiation distance with mammals and birds having the largest estimated effects. Rates of autotomy observed in the field were highest on predator-free islands yet laboratory-induced autotomy increased linearly with overall predator diversity. Against expectation from previous work, tail autotomy was not explained solely by the presence of vipers. Analyses of populations directly isolated from rich predator communities revealed that flight initiation distance decreased with increased duration of isolation in addition to the effects of current predator diversity, whereas tail autotomy could be explained simply by current predator diversity. Although selection against costly defenses should depend on time with reduced threats, different defenses may diminish along different trajectories even within the same predator-prey system.
Brock, K.M. & Belasen, A. & Foufopoulos, J. (2014) -
Brock, K.M. & Chelini, M.-C. & Ayton, C. & Madden, I.E. & Ramos, C. & Blois, J.L. & Pafilis, P. & Edwards, D.L. (2022) -
Space is a limited resource in which many animals need to perform basic functions such as feeding and reproducing. Competition over access to space can induce a variety of behaviours that may result in differential access to crucial resources related to survival and fitness. The Aegean wall lizard, Podarcis erhardii, is a colour-polymorphic lizard that inhabits dry stone walls where they access food, safely thermoregulate, shelter from predators and interact with other lizards. Many colour-polymorphic species have morphs with distinct behavioural strategies, which may play a role in morph evolution and maintenance. Here, we conducted the first behavioural experiments on P. erhardii colour morphs. Our goal was to compare morph competitive ability and characterize morph differences in social behaviours using laboratory contest experiments over limited heated space on a stone wall in a neutral arena. Contest experiments revealed that colour morph, not size, predicted intermorph contest outcomes. White and yellow morphs were associated with winning and the orange morph was associated with losing contests. Male colour morphs exhibited different levels of aggressive, boldness, chemical signalling and visual signalling behaviours depending on which morph they were in contest with. White morphs always performed aggressive and scent-marking behaviours more frequently during contests with other morphs. Yellow morphs performed aggressive, bold, chemical signalling and visual signalling behaviours at intermediate frequencies relative to other morphs. Orange morphs performed aggressive behaviours equally often when in contest with yellow morphs but performed all other behaviours less frequently against yellow and white morphs. Considering these results, behavioural variation among P. erhardii colour morphs may promote morph maintenance.
Brock, K.M. & Donihue, C.M. (2013) -
Brock, K.M. & Madden, I.E. (2022) -
Variation in color morph behavior is an important factor in the maintenance of color polymorphism. Alternative anti-predator behaviors are often associated with morphological traits such as coloration, possibly because predator-mediated viability selection favors certain combinations of anti-predator behavior and color. The Aegean wall lizard, Podarcis erhardii, is color polymorphic and populations can have up to three monochromatic morphs: orange, yellow, and white. We investigated whether escape behaviors differ among coexisting color morphs, and if morph behaviors are repeatable across different populations with the same predator species. Specifically, we assessed color morph flight initiation distance (FID), distance to the nearest refuge (DNR), and distance to chosen refuge (DR) in two populations of Aegean wall lizards from Naxos island. We also analyzed the type of refugia color morphs selected and their re-emergence behavior following a standardized approach. We found that orange morphs have different escape behaviors from white and yellow morphs, and these differences are consistent in both populations we sampled. Orange morphs have shorter FIDs, DNRs, and DRs; select different refuge types; and re-emerge less often after being approached compared to white and yellow morphs. Observed differences in color morph escape behaviors support the idea that morphs have evolved alternative behavioral strategies that may play a role in population-level morph maintenance and loss.
Brock, K.M. & Madden, I.E. & Rosso, A.A. & Ramos, C. & Degen, R. & Stadler, S.R. & Ayton, C. & Fernandez, M.E.L. & Reyes Servin, J. (2022) -
Brock, K.M. & McTavish, E.J. & Edwards, D.L. (2022) -
Color polymorphism—two or more heritable color phenotypes maintained within a single breeding population— is an extreme type of intraspecific diversity widespread across the tree of life. Color polymorphism is hypothesized to be an engine for speciation, where morph loss or divergence between distinct color morphs within a species results in the rapid evolution of new lineages, and thus, color polymorphic lineages are expected to display elevated diversification rates. Multiple species in the lizard family Lacertidae are color polymorphic, making them an ideal group to investigate the evolutionary history of this trait and its influence on macroevolution. Here, we produce a comprehensive species-level phylogeny of the lizard family Lacertidae to reconstruct the evolutionary history of color polymorphism and test if color polymorphism has been a driver of diversification. Accounting for phylogenetic uncertainty with multiple phylogenies and simulation studies, we estimate an ancient origin of color polymorphism (111 Ma) within the Lacertini tribe (subfamily Lacertinae). Color polymorphism most likely evolved few times in the Lacertidae and has been lost at a much faster rate than gained. Evolutionary transitions to color polymorphism are associated with shifts in increased net diversification rate in this family of lizards. Taken together, our empirical results support long-standing theoretical expectations that color polymorphism is a driver of diversification.
Brockhaus, T. (1998) -
Broek, D. & Brouwer, D. & Hoekerswever, J. & Kok, A. & Ploeg, R. (2022) -
Broek, D. & Brouwer, D. & Ploeg, R. (2017) -
On February 29, 2016, the authors departed to one of the best herpetofauna hotspots in Europe, Sardinia. The aim of this 4-day journey was to find as many species as possible, with a focus on the endemic specialties of the island. Although the intent was non-scientific, we did some interesting observations that contradict, confirm or complement other surveys. We spent the first three days of our trip at the east coast of the island, near the mountainous Parco Nazionale del Golfo di Orosei e del Gennargentu. Here we found our target species, the European leaf-toed Gecko (Euleptes europaea) and the Supramonte Cave Salamander (Speleomantes supramontis), as well as two other gecko species (Tarentola mauritanica and Hemidactylus turcicus), two endemic lizards (Podarcis tiliguerta and Algyroides fitzingeri), a skink (Chalcides occellatus) and two species of anurans (Hyla sarda and Bufotes viridis balearicus). The Moorish Gecko was not recorded yet for this region. The amount of observed cave salamanders was striking, as well as the relatively dry habitat in which they were found. This is probably due to the rainy conditions just before our arrival. At least four out of the seventeen observed salamanders were parasitized by the leech Batracobdella algira, significantly more than nine out of 1380 in a recent study. The last day, we tried to find some new species in the vicinity of Lago Baratz, the only natural freshwater lake of the island, at the west coast. Here, we observed six species, including Discoglossus sardus, Chalcides chalcides and Podarcis siculus, which were new species of the trip. In total, we found an estimated 114 individuals of twelve different species. Some species we missed out were Archaeolacerta bedriagae, Euproctus platycephalus, Testudo hermanni and all Sardinian snake species, giving us enough reasons to return to Sardinia!
Broekhuysen, W.P. (1899) -
Broen, A.J.J. & Stempens, T.P.M. (1977) -
Broggi, M.F. (1978) -
The herpetofauna of Lesbos comprises the following species: Hyla a. arborea, Rana r. ridibunda, Testudo graeca ibera, Mauremys caspica rivulata, Agama st. stellio, Cyrto- dactylus kotscbyi (subspecies unknown), Opbisaurus apodus, Lacerta t. trilineata, Ophis- ops elegans ehrenbergii,Typhlops vermicularis, Natrix natrix persa, and Eirenis m. mode- stus. The following species were recorded for the first time from the island: Bufo bufo spinosus? (till now listed from Samos), Emys orbicularis (new for islands in Asia Minor), Testudo graeca ibera (hitherto Samos), Hemidactylus t. turcicus (hitherto Ikaria), and Elaphe situla (hitherto Chios and Samos). The most widespread and rather abundant species on the island is Ophisops elegans. Testudo graeca is not at all rare in the mountainous parts. In the wetlands Rana ridi- bunda and Mauremys caspica (surprisingly tall specimens of the latter) are often found.
Broggi, M.F. (1988) -
Broggi, M.F. (1994) -
Observations on the herpetofauna of some Greek islands are reported. New localities are given for Emys orbicularis (Samothrake), Hemidactylus turcicus and Ophisaurus apodus (Chios); Podarcis taurica, Elaphe situla (Lefleas), Coluber gemonensis (Karpathos) and Natrix natrix (Kvthira). Considerations on the situation of four types of threatened Greek island biotopes (mouth of creeks, cisterns and pits, mountain creeks, terraced areas) are presented.
Broggi, M.F. (1997) -
Folgende Neunachweise von Reptilien auf den beiden Dodekanes-Inseln Leros und Kalymnos wurden erbracht: Testudo graeca ibera (Kalymnos), Malpolon monspessulanus (Kalymnos). Am Beispiel von Bufo viridis wird klar, wie stark seine reliktären Insel-Vorkommen durch die Gefahrdung der letzten Feuchtgebiete bedroht sind.
Broggi, M.F. (1999) -
Broggi, M.F. (2000) -
In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden vor allem die durch menschliche Aktivitäten zunehmend beeinträchtigten Feuchtlebensräume der griechischen Kykladeninseln Milos und Sifiios untersucht. Die Kleinstpopulationen der hygrophilen Amphibien und Reptilien sind stark gefährdet So ist Mauremys rivulata auf Sifiios wahrscheinlich bereits ausgestorben und sind die einzigen zwei auf Milos beobachteten Vorkommen stark gefährdet Auch der Seefrosch (Rana sp.) muß heute auf Sifiios und Milos als stark gefährdet betrachtet werden.
Broggi, M.F. (2001) -
Den bisher von der Insel Ikaria bekannten zwei Amphibien- und 10 Reptilienarten wird eine weitere Reptilienart (Ophisaurus apodus) hinzugefügt. Die im Vergleich zur benachbarten Insel Samos artenarme Herpetozönose von Ikaria ist durch kleinasiatische Elemente geprägt. Auffällig sind durchwegs starke Populationen, insbesondere bei Rana sp., Laudakia stellio, Lacerta oertzeni und Mauremys rivulata.
Broggi, M.F. (2002) -
Broggi, M.F. (2006) -
Herpetofauna of the island of Tilos (Dodecanese, Greece): influence of isolation and changes in land use. Five species of reptile (Cyrtopodion kotschyi, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Laudakia stellio, Ophisops elegans, Hierophis jugularis) and one amphibian (Rana bedriagae) were known to occur on the isolated Island of Tilos (Dodecanese). In this paper one more amphibian species (Bufo viridis) and four further reptile species (Hemidactylus turcicus, Lacerta oertzeni, Vípera xanthina, Mauremys rivulata - the distributional status of the latter remaining unclear) are added to the herpetofauna of the island. Both of the original wetland areas on Tilos were destroyed in the last decades. Moreover, cisterns that acted as substitute biotopes are no longer maintained and viable today due to changes towards an intensified agriculture. This led to the disappearance of Rana bedriagae and is threatening Bufo viridis. The destruction of biotopes poses special threat to the hygrophilic herpetofauna on the Greek islands. The herpetofauna of Tilos is compared with that of the neighboring island of Symi, which is of approximately the same size, but holds five more reptile species. Symi is only 7-8 km while Tilos is 20 km from the Anatolian mainland. The higher degree of isolation results in a reduced number of species on Tilos.
Broggi, M.F. (2008) -
Von der Nord-Dodekanes Insel Lipsi waren bisher eine Amphibien- und fünf Reptilienarten nachgewiesen. Nun kommen Ablepharus kitaibelii und Cyrtopodion (M.) kotschyi dazu. Lipsi soll Teil eines geplanten Meeres Nationalparkes werden. Es werden darum die derzeit nicht nachhaltigen Aspekte der Landnutzung kommentiert und einige Anregungen für Verbesserungen unterbreitet. Als größtes Problem wird die Überbestoßung durch Kleinvieh geortet. Weiters sollte die Zersiedelung der Insel durch raumplanerische Maßnahmen verhindert werden. Für Bufo (P.) viridis sind Rettungsmaßnahmen zur Erhaltung der Laichplätze vordringlich.
Broggi, M.F. (2010) -
The natural history of the island of Alonissos in the Northern Sporades is briefly described. The existing herpetological literature is presented and the new finds listed, namely Pelophylax ridibundus, Testudo marginata, Telescopus fallax and Zamenis situla. A melanistic snake, presumably Hierophis caspius, was also found. A total of 13 species of amphibians and reptiles has been reported for Alonissos.
Broggi, M.F. (2011) -
Nach gegenwärtiger Kenntnis umfaßt die Herpetofauna von Serifos zwölf Arten. Die insel ist wasserreich, die Verbreitung der vier dort vorkommenden semi-aquatischen Arten wurde untersucht. Die Populationen von Bufo viridis, Pelophylax kurtmuelleri und Mauremys rivulata sind als vital anzusprechen, hingegen konnte Natrix tessellata nicht mehr nachgewiesen werden. Es werden einige Aspekte des Naturschutzes im Hinblick auf diese Arten behandelt. Auf Serifos verschlechtern zwei infrastrukturprojekte die Situation der semiaquatischen Herpetofauna zusammen mit Schadeinflüssen durch Tourismus und Landnutzung. Weiters wird auf Austrocknungstendenzen in der Ägäis verwiesen, die für die insel-Herpetofaunen inskünftig Probleme verursachen werden.
Broggi, M.F. (2014) -
Broggi, M.F. (2016) -
Die Insel Kythira ist Teil des südägäischen Inselbogens, der sich vor mehreren Millionen von jahren bildete und von der Peloponnes-Halbinsel über Kreta, Karpathos und Rhodos nach Anatolien erstreckt. In seiner Pflanzen- und Tierwelt hat Kythira viel mit dem Peloponnes gemeinsam. Bislang wurden etwa sechzehn Amphibien- und Reptilienarten von der Insel beschrieben, die sich durch ihren Wasserreichtum, besonders im Norden, auszeichnet. Die vorliegende Arbeit trägt die verstreute Information zur Herpetofauna von Kythira zusammen und erweitert sie durch eigene Beobachtungen.
Broggi, M.F. (2024) -
The current knowledge on the herpetofauna of Syros is updated, whereby no publications on it have been made since 1975. I provide the results from a field trip in 2024 that focused on the hygrophilous species. The Balkan Water Frog and the Balkan Terrapin, men tioned for Syros in the 19th century, meanwhile have become extinct. The Green Toad is threatened with extinction, the status of the Grass Snake is unclear. The Green Toad has benefited previously from anthropogenic spawning grounds in the form of open cisterns, which have fallen into disuse and thus are no longer available to the amphibians. The ongoing climate change in the Aegean region is reflected in drier winters, which dry out water bodies. The situation for the wetlands and their fauna and flora on Syros is alarming.
Brom, T. (2015) -
Brongersma, L.D. (1958) -
Broschinski, A. (2005) -
Brouwer, A. & Bruekers, J. (2014) -
Brown, J.N.B. (1985) -
Brown, R. & Gist, D. & Taylor, D. (1995) -
A 2-yr field study of introduced wall lizards, Podarcis muralis, revealed a resident population which remained remarkably stable (n = 37 lizards for each year). Slightly more than half of the 167 wall lizards originally captured and marked disappeared from the study sites and were classified as nonresidents. Males occupied significantly larger home ranges than females and, in 1991, had higher instances of intersexual home range overlap than did females. Instances of female-female home range overlaps in 1991 were more numerous than corresponding overlap between males. There was no difference between the sexes with respect to mean percentage of home range overlap in 1990, but females exhibited greater percent overlap in 1991. Small home range size and high home range overlap suggest that the Cincinnati population may have switched from territorial behaviour (reported for European populations) to a hierarchical dominance system, possibly in response to unique pressure (high lizard densities, high predation pressures and low availability of preferred habitat) in the Cincinnati area. We interpret our results in light of recent findings regarding lizard spacing patterns, optimality theory and predictions concerning introduced lizard populations. We also compare our data on one of the only successfully introduced lacertid lizards in North America to data from native European populations.
Brown, R. & Taylor, D. & Gist, D. (1995) -
Brown, R.P. (2005) -
A phylogenetic-comparative approach was used to assess and refine existing secondary structure models for a frequently studied region of the mitochondrial encoded large subunit (16S) rRNA in two large lizard lineages within the Scincomorpha, namely the Scincidae and the Lacertidae. Potential pairings and mutual information were analyzed to identify site interactions present within each lineage and provide consensus secondary structures. Many of the interactions proposed by previous models were supported, but several refinements were possible. The consensus structures allowed a detailed analysis of rRNA sequence evolution. Phylogenetic trees were inferred from Bayesian analyses of all sites, and the topologies used for maximum likelihood estimation of sequence evolution parameters. Assigning gamma-distributed relative rate categories to all interacting sites that were homologous between lineages revealed substantial differences between helices. In both lineages, sites within helix G2 were mostly conserved, while those within helix E18 evolved rapidly. Clear evidence of substantial site-specific rate variation (covarion-like evolution) was also detected, although this was not strongly associated with specific helices. This study, in conjunction with comparable findings on different, higher-level taxa, supports the ubiquitous nature of site-specific rate variation in this gene and justifies the incorporation of covarion models in phylogenetic inference.
Brown, R.P. (2008) -
Brown, R.P. (2010) -
Brown, R.P. & Hoskisson, P.A. & Welton, J.A. & Báez, M. (2006) -
Brown, R.P. & Jin, Y. & Thomas, J. & Meloro, C. (2022) -
Morphological divergence under gene flow was investigated in the wall lizard Teira dugesii from the Atlantic island of Madeira island. Lizards (n=334) were sampled using a matched pairs design at four distinct coastal localities. Matched pairs comprised adjacent (<1 km) grey shingle beach and inland sites. Luminances of specific dorsal areas were recorded for each RGB channel from digital photographs taken in the field. Lizards were found to be significantly darker at beach sites than inland sites. Geometric morphometric analyses using 35 landmarks placed on dorsal photographs of the head revealed significant divergence between beach/inland habitats: wider snouts were found at beach sites. Genotyping-by-sequencing of 93 individuals provided 19311 cross-genomic SNPs. A spatial principal components analysis showed significant genomic divergence across the four sampled localities and within these localities. However, there was no evidence that beach and inland populations formed distinct lineages. Patterns of genomic divergence were compared with those generated from simulations under three models. Primary findings were repeated across all four localities. The model of divergence without gene flow was rejected, while the most strongly supported model incorporating two periods of gene flow: an early period of lower gene flow followed by a period of higher gene flow. Gene flow from inland to beach was greater than that in the opposite direction. This study demonstrates ecologically significant morphological divergence in the face of gene flow and adds to understanding of how divergence and speciation may occur within small islands.
Brown, R.P. & Jin, Y. & Thomas, J. & Meloro, C. (2023) -
Limited spatial separation within small islands suggests that observed population divergence may occur due to habitat differences without interruption to gene flow but strong evidence of this is scarce. The wall lizard Teira dugesii lives in starkly contrasting shingle beach and inland habitats on the island of Madeira. We used a matched pairs sampling design to examine morphological and genomic divergence between four beach and adjacent (<1 km) inland areas. Beach populations are significantly darker than corresponding inland populations. Geometric morphometric analyses reveal divergence in head morphology: beach lizards have generally wider snouts. Genotyping-by-sequencing allows the rejection of the hypothesis that beach populations form a distinct lineage. Bayesian analyses provide strong support for models that incorporate gene flow, relative to those that do not, replicated at all pairs of matched sites. Madeiran lizards show morphological divergence between habitats in the face of gene flow, revealing how divergence may originate within small islands.
Brown, R.P. & Paterson, S. & Risse, J. (2016) -
Geographical variation among contiguous populations is frequently attributed to ecological divergence or historical isolation followed by secondary contact. Distinguishing between these effects is key to studies of incipient speciation and could be revealed by different genomic signatures. We used RAD-seq analyses to examine morphologically divergent populations of the endemic lizard (Gallotia galloti) from the volcanic island of Tenerife. Previous analyses have suggested ecological and historical causes to explain the morphological diversity. Analyses of 276483 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from >20 Mbp of the genome revealed one genetically divergent population from Anaga, a region associated with divergent mtDNA lineages in other Tenerife endemics. This population also has a high number of private alleles, and its divergence can be explained by historical isolation. Bayesian outlier analyses identified a small proportion of SNPs as candidates for selection (0.04%) which were strongly differentiated between xeric and mesic habitat types. Individual testing for specific xeric-mesic selection using an alternative approach also supported ecological divergence in a similarly small proportion of SNPs. The study indicates the roles of both historical isolation and ecological divergence in shaping genomic diversity in G. galloti. However, north-south morphological divergence appears solely associated with the latter and likely involves a relatively small proportion of the genome.
Brown, R.P. & Perez-Mellado, V. (1993) -
The rock lizard Lacerta monticola is a climatic relict confined to three mountain ranges and one coastal region of the Iberian peninsula. Scalation was studied in specimens from localities encompassing all major parts of its range. Population differentiation was analysed using analyses of variance, z-transformations of within-locality character-correlations, canonical variate analyses, principal components analysis, and matrix association tests. Substantial differentiation was found between Pyrenees specimens and those from other localities, supporting a recent study which indicated that the Pyrenees populations could represent a different species. Considerable geographic variation is also found among populations from the remaining parts of its range, the pattern of which is not compatible with existing racial categories designated for this species.
Brown, R.P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1994) -
1. Ecological energetics and water fluxes were compared between populations of the lacertid lizard Podarcis lilfordi from the Menorcan islets of Aire (Illa de l`Aire) and Nitge (Illa des Porros) (Balearic Islands. Spain) during a non-reproductive summer period using the doubly labelled water technique. 2. Lizards from Aire (Illa de l`Aire) were larger than those from Nitge (Illa des Porros) (9.6±0.58 g vs 5.1±0.38 g, respectively) and consequently had higher field metabolic rates (FMR) (1.739±0.151 kJ daysup-1/sup vs 1.255±0.977 kJ daysup-1/sup). 3. FMR were lower in the Aire (Illa de l`Aire) population, when the effects of the differing body masses were removed. 4. There were substantial differences in food availabilities between the two islets and this was reflected in strong dietary differences between the lizard populations. 5. Feeding constraints were potentially lower in Aire (Illa de l`Aire) owing to (a) greater arthropod availability, (b) greater abundance of edible flowers, and (c) lower lizard density. 6. We suggest that a reduction in constraints on food intake could enable more efficient foraging by Aire (Illa de l`Aire) lizards, and so explain their lower mass-independent FMR. 7. Although omnivory in Aire (Illa de l`Aire) lizards appeared to increase the amount of preformed water obtained from the food, no differences in mass-independent water flux were found, probably because drinking represented the primary source of water intake.
Brown, R.P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Diego-Rasilla, J. & Garcia, J.A. & Naranjo, A. & Speakman, J.R. (1992) -
Population density in the lacertid lizard Podarcis lilfordi on the Mediterranean islet of Nitge (Illa des Porros), Menorca, Balearic Islands, was found to be 12 190 ind · ha-1 (SE, ±2135), exceeding densities reported for other island or mainland lizard populations. Field metabolic rates in P. lilfordi were measured by the doubly labeled water method, allowing estimation of a population metabolizable energy demand of 13.86 MJ · ha-1 · day-1-only 9.8% of that for a theoretical mammal population of the same body mass and density. Energy demand was considerably higher than that estimated for other lizard populations, primarily due to high population density but also because of high individual daily energy expenditure (1255 KJ · day-1; body mass=5.13 g). Field metabolic rates were partitioned into maintenance and activity components by respirometry of captive animals at field body temperatures. Activity metabolism formed the main component (77.4%) of total respiratory metabolism resulting from a combination of long daily activity periods (ca. 12 h), and greatly elevated metabolism during activity (5.7 times greater than resting levels). It is hypothesized that low food availability per individual constrains the time-energy budget of this species, obligating long periods of intense foraging.
Brown, R.P. & Terrasa, B. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Castro, J.A. & Hoskisson, P.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2008) -
Phylogenetic relationships and timings of major cladogenesis events are investigated in the Balearic Island lizards Podarcis lilfordi and Podarcis pityusensis using 2675 bp of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences. Partitioned Bayesian and Maximum Parsimony analyses provided a well-resolved phylogeny with high node-support values. Bayesian MCMC estimation of node dates was investigated by comparing means of posterior distributions from different subsets of the sequence against the most robust analysis which used multiple partitions and allowed for rate heterogeneity among branches under a rate-drift model. Evolutionary rates were systematically underestimated and thus divergence times overestimated when sequences containing lower numbers of variable sites were used (based on ingroup node constraints). The following analyses allowed the best recovery of node times under the constant-rate (i.e., perfect clock) model: (i) all cytochrome b sequence (partitioned by codon position), (ii) cytochrome b (codon position 3 alone), (iii) NADH dehydrogenase (subunits 1 and 2; partitioned by codon position), (iv) cytochrome b and NADH dehydrogenase sequence together (six gene–codon partitions), (v) all unpartitioned sequence, (vi) a full multipartition analysis (nine partitions). Of these, only (iv) and (vi) performed well under the rate-drift model. These findings have significant implications for dating of recent divergence times in other taxa. The earliest P. lilfordi cladogenesis event (divergence of Menorcan populations), occurred before the end of the Pliocene, some 2.6 Ma. Subsequent events led to a West Mallorcan lineage (2.0 Ma ago), followed 1.2 Ma ago by divergence of populations from the southern part of the Cabrera archipelago from a widely-distributed group from north Cabrera, northern and southern Mallorcan islets. Divergence within P. pityusensis is more recent with the main Ibiza and Formentera clades sharing a common ancestor at about 1.0 Ma ago. Climatic and sea level changes are likely to have initiated cladogenesis, with lineages making secondary contact during periodic landbridge formation. This oscillating cross-archipelago pattern in which ancient divergence is followed by repeated contact resembles that seen between East-West refugia populations from mainland Europe.
Brown, T.K. & Nagy, K.A. (2007) -
Brückner, M. & Düring, A. (2002) -
Brückner, M. & Klein, B. & Düring, A. & Mentel, T. & Rabus, S.& Soller, J.T. (2002) -
Bruekers, J. (1987) -
Bruekers, J. (1995) -
The well known occurrence of P. pityusensis on old overgrown walls in Palma de Mallorca is mentioned. The species is imported: they originate on the Pityusic Islands and not the Balearics. The basic colour of this lizard is moss green. Their markings re very variable; individuals were found varying from uniform green, non marked, to heavily marked. The question arises why this lizard which elsewhere utilises great variety of biotopes, does not seem able tom populate a larger part of Mallorca. It is, however, clear that apparently all suitable habitat is already utilised by Tarentola mauritanica.
Bruekers, J. (1997) -
Data on the distribution of Teira perspicillata on Menorca, on its habitat and syntopic occurrence with Podarcis siculus cetti and Tarentola mauritanica are reported.
Bruekers, J. (2003) -
A new locality for the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis sicula sicula) in France (Hymnes, Côte d`Azur) The ltalian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) originates from Italy and the coastal regions of the Adriatic Sea. In addition, it has known introduced populations in Tunisia, Spain, the USA and two localities in France. The author reports evidence for a third introduction in France, in a plant nursery (`Jardinerie du gros pin`) in Hyeres on the Côte d`Azur. Whilst visiting this plant nursery, the author observed a green-coloured lizard on the trunk of an imported, large olive tree, on display for the purpose of sale. On closer inspection, four additional specimes (all adults, three males and two females in total) were found in the immediate vicinity. Common, brown, wall lizards (P. muralis merremia) were also encountered. The author identified the green specimens as P. sicula sicula and suspects the animals were inadvertently introduced, being stowaways on imported old trees, originating from a.o. southern Italy.
Bruekers, J. (2004) -
First experience with Takydromus septentrionalis (GÜNTHER, 1864) A description is given of Takydromus septentrionalis. Because these animals are potentially suited to keep in an outdoor-terrarium, the climate of their area of distriburion is compared to that of the Netherlands. The husbandry of the animals, partly in an outdoor-terrarium, is discussed. The animals are kept inside during the winter.
Bruekers, J. (2005) -
An observation of the Spanish Psammodromus in the Provence is described. The author visited the area frequently for eighteen years, but didn’t see this species before. July 2002 he saw a female of this species at the edge of a field of a grapery near Le Luc, close to shrubs (macchie). The lizard was very timid and couldn’t be observed afterwards. It is not clear whether this observation is related to an enlargement of the known range.
Bruekers, J. (2006) -
The surroundings of Lake Garda have a rather mild climate for northern Italy. The most often found reptile species in this region are the Wall lizard (Podarcis muralis maculiventris) and the Western Green lizard (Lacerta bilineata bilineata). In 2004 the author unexpectedly found in this region the Italian Wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) and the Moorish gecko (Tarentola mauritanica). In Italy this last gecko species is generally found in the coastal areas. It is presumed that these uncommon observations are a result of unintended introductions by men through the imports of large Olive-trees from southern Italy (Foggia), this makes it most likely that these Italian Wall lizards belongs to the subspecies P. s. sicula. All observed P. sicula (juveniles included), geckos and an egg, possibly of the Moorish gecko, were found in a large garden centre (near Padenghe). One Tarentola was found on the wall of a toilet building on a camping site. The author speculates that the mild climate makes it possible for the animals to reproduce in this region.
The author highlights his observations regard- ing the Wall lizards in a little park near the harbour of the capital of the Greek island of Corfu in 2005. This lizard species is a recent introduction to this island where originally only one Podarcis-species occurs (Podarcis taurica). A friend of the author observed the Wall lizard for the first time in 1993 but took no notes or photographs than. Research by others determined that these Wall lizards belong to the subspecies P. muralis albanica. The present author studied 9 indi- viduals. One of these was a juvenile. The morpholoy, habitat, sumpatric species, predation and probable ways of the introduc- tion are discussed.
Bruekers, J. (2007) -
During a journey to Spain a population of Podarcis pityusensis pityusensis could be found near the former habitat at the `Plaza de las Glorias` in Barcelona on 10. May 2007.
Bruekers, J. (2010) -
In May 2010 in Içmeler a viable population of the Syrian lizard (Phoenicolacerta laevis) could be confirmed. In the nearby village of Marmaris the author found a female P. laevis. This is the first time that this lizard species is reported from the Lycian coast in Western Turkey.
In 2004 several Podarcis sicula were discovered for the first time at a nursery near Padenghe sul Garda (Italy). Some of them were juveniles. It was believed that these lizards could start a viable population (Bruekers, 2006). In 2009 the site was checked again. Podarcis muralis maculiventris was abundant. It was obvious that Podarcis muralis used every suitable niche. After a while only one adult female Podarcis sicula could be found. This one and only specimen was difficult to photograph. The author speculates that competition between these lizards species is the main reason that P. sicula failed to establish a viable population. Maybe there were not enough P. sicula to start a new population? In addition the less favourable climate conditions could be another disadvantage for these introduced P. sicula which probably originate from the southern parts of Italy (Bruekers, 2006). This small population of Podarcis s. sicula near Padenghe is presumed to be extinct, only five years after its first discovery in 2004.
Bruekers, J. (2011) -
Some experience with Jacksons forest lizard (Adolfus jacksoni) The author describes his over all experiences in keeping the African Jacksons forest lizard (Adolfus jacksoni). The article gives some information on distribution, husbandry conditions, feeding and (mating) behaviour. Adolfus is typified as a lizard with an attitude, similar to what one can see in European Podarcis- species. Therefore a male and female combination is recommended. In captivity Adolfus proved to be a sturdy species. The author also refers to some interesting references on Adolfus jacksoni.
Bruekers, J. (2012) -
The author describes his herpetological observations in the surroundings of Maramis (and Icmeler) in Turkey in May 2010. Several species were found; Pseudepidalea viridian, Pelophylax ridibundus, Testudo graeca ibera, Mauremys rivulet, Chamaeleo chameleon, Anatololacerta oerzeni palasgiana, Hemidactylus turcicus, Trachylepis auratus, Pseodopus apodus, Typhlops vermicularis, Eirenis modestum, Platyceps najadum. The author also highlights the discovery of a new lizard species for this area. One phoenicolacerta laevis (female) was seen near the beach of Marmaris. Sixteen other individuals were found in the nearby town of Icmeler. This was the first time that this opportunistic species was found in western Turkey.
Bruekers, J. (2013) -
Observations regarding Phoenicolacerta troodica in its typical (semi)natural habitats in Northern Cyprus are described. Ph. troodica, at first, was thought to be a subspecies of Ph. laevis. But detailed studies revealed that Ph. troodica should be considered a full species. Fact is that this lizard lives on Cyprus only. This makes it an endemic species. The author describes this typical wall lizard species as very opportunistic. It can be found in various natural en semi-natural habitats (garden walls, roadsides, walls or rocky formations in forest areas. Sometimes other reptile species were found in the same habitat. For instance Laudakia stellio which, in theory, could be a predator, especially for young Phoenicolacerta. According to the author this species is fairly easy to recognize. Both sexes have a typical white colored band on the flanks. This paper contains a list with differences between Ph. troodica and Ph. laevis and a list with biometrical data regarding Ph. troodica. Some information on predation en predators is also presented.
Bruekers, J. (2016) -
Bruekers, J. (2021) -
The author describes his observations on the Long-tailed Lizard (Takydromus sexlineatus) on Bali, near the City of Ubud. Some details on its ecology and habitat are highlighted. This diurnal lizard was found in a small patch of grassland. Takydromus sexlineatus was seen basking on dry gras and leaves. It shares his habitat with Eutropis (formerly Mabuya) multifasciata, Gekko gecko and Hemidactylus platyurus. On Bali Takydromus prefers a damp and warm environement.
The author describes his observations on Podarcis lilfordi on Mallorca. Podarcis lilfordi gigliolii was found in great numbers on the island Dragonera, west of Mallorca. The melanistic P. l. jordansi was found in the port of Colònia de Sant Jordi in Mallorca. There it inhabits a small remaining part of the former small island ‘Frailes’, that is now connected to the main island.
Bruekers, J. & Uytterschout, G. (2010) -
The authors were in Side (Turkey) during a field trip in May 2009 where they studied the Hatay or Syrian lizard (Phoenicolacerta leavis). The present known westernmost border of its natural distribution is in Hatay. This is about 200 km east of Side (Bischoff & Franzen, 1993). Ph. laevis, which most likely is an introduced species, was found on locations already described by Troidl & Troidl (2008a & b). These authors found the lizards in hotel-garden habitats in the western part of Side and in Manavgat. In this paper the presence of this species is confirmed near the centre of Side and the dispersal to the east, in the direction of Titreyen-Göl (Manavgat). The authors are convinced that this is an indication that the Side and Manavgat populations are in fact connected. This needs further confirmation though. About 3 km off the coastline in Side Ph. laevis was found for the first time too. There they inhabit hotel-garden walls. One of the authors ( JB) saw the lizard in Side in 2003 but was then it was not recognized as Ph. laevis. It is suggested that this lizard species arrived in this area some years before 2003. The present field studies indicate that Ph. laevis benefits from the lack of competition by other Lacertidae (Anatololacerta danfordi/ A. oertzeni). This gives Ph. laevis the chance to conquer suitable habitats and niches where it is now very abundant, thus successful. Other reptile species which are living sympatric with Ph. laevis were Laudakia stellio daani and Chalcides ocellatus. Information is given on possible predation by cats and bird species. Also morph metric measurements and colour-pattern features of Phoenicolacerta laevis from the Side region were compared. Finally the internal and external parasites (Mites, possibly Ophionyssus natricis, and Nematodes, possibly Oxyurus) are briefly discussed.
Brüggemann, F. (1875) -
Brüggemann, P. (1988) -
Brüggemann, P. (1990) -
Brugière, D. (1987) -
Brugiere, D. (1987) -
Brugiere, D. (1991) -
Bruin, R. de (1952) -
Bruner, E. & Costantini, D. (2007) -
The geometry of the cephalic scales in lizards is easily represented by using landmark based approaches. The cephalic scales may prove useful structures in the investigation of the evolution and morphogenesis of lizards because of their biomechanical relationships with the underlying bones and muscular anatomy. In the present paper the head morphology in Podarcis muralis and Podarcis sicula is compared by using geometric morphometrics and Euclidean distance matrix analysis. The head shape in these two species is largely influenced by a shared allometric pattern, with P. sicula displaying a reduced range of variation. This pattern is probably influenced by the cranial morphogenesis at the fronto-parietal suture, and by the parieto-occipital musculature involved in diet and social behaviours. Minor species-specific differences are evidenced, and should be further investigated.
Bruner, E. & Costantini, D. (2009) -
The morphology of cephalic scales in Lacertids is organised in well defined geometrical structures. The variation of these elements is related to the underlying bone growth and morphogenesis, but it is also associated with the muscular system and the sutural dynamics. In this paper, the patterns of variation of the cephalic scales have been compared between three common Mediterranean species: Podarcis muralis, Podarcis sicula and Lacerta bilineata. The morphospace generated by the morphological relationships within the cephalic system in these three species is investigated in order to consider their degree of variation and their anatomical peculiarities. Generally, Lacerta is 64% larger than Podarcis, shows a relative reduction of the frontal scale, enlarged fronto-parietal structures, and stretched occipital area. L. bilineata shows the smaller degree of variation within the shape space, while P. muralis shows the highest values. The morphology of the two genera is definitely different mostly because of allometric variation. Non-allometric distinctions between the three species are subtle but detectable. The degree and pattern of variation are interpreted in terms of possible environmental pressures and of functional cranial dynamics associated with the fronto-parietal suture, respectively. In this sense, the structural relationships between bones and scales are of particular interest to further investigate ontogeny and phylogeny in reptiles.
Bruner, E. & Costantini, D. & Fanfani, A. & Dell’Omo, G. (2005) -
The Western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) is a lacertid distributed throughout Mediterranean and Central Europe. Little is known about the morphological variability and sexual shape differences in this species. In this paper, the variation of the cephalic scales in L. bilineata is analysed by means of a geometric morphometric approach. A main structural pattern is characterized by negative allometry of the frontal and interparietal areas, and positive allometry of the parietal and frontoparietal scales. Sexual differences are described both in size and shape. In males, the scales are generally larger, with relative shortening of the frontal area, frontoparietal enlargement, occipital lengthening and bulging of the parietal scales, which compresses and narrows the interparietal and occipital areas midsagittally. This pattern is based on a shared allometric trajectory, with males displaying a peramorphic morphotype. However, males show some shape differences in the occipital area that are not size‐related, and cannot be interpreted in terms of general head enlargement. This structural trajectory can be related to the development of the skull, but the role of soft tissues (temporal, nuchal and masticatory muscles) must also be considered. The development of the jaw and nuchal muscles involved in intra‐ and intersexual behaviours could have played a pivotal role in the evolution of this pattern.
Bruno, S. (1971) -
Bruno, S. (1975) -
Bruno, S. (1977) -
Almost all species of Amphibians and Reptiles of Central Italy occur in the Tolfa mountains (Civitavecchia, Latium). This is one of the most interesting areas in the whole of Italy as far as the herpetofauna is concerned. It lies not far from Rome and its conservation state is satisfactory; both these facts have favoured and enabled some experimental studies of eco-ethology on such mountains since 1964. The A. describes the species and subspecies of Amphibians and Reptiles recorded in this area, adding some information on their chorology, biology, taxonomy, history and zoogeograph.
Bruno, S. (1979) -
The herpetologic fauna of the Torricchio Mountain Nature Reserve includes the following species: Salamandra s. gigliolii, Salamandrina terdigitata, Triturus vulgaris meridionalis, Hydromantes i. italicus, Bufo bufo, Bufo v. viridis, Bombina variegata pachypus, Hyla a. arborea, Rana graeca, Rana cfr. esculenta, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis sicula campestris, Lacerta v. viridis, Chalcides c. chalcides, Anguis f. fragilis, Coluber viridiflavus, Coronella austriaca, Elaphe l. longissima, Elaphe q. quatuorlineata, Natrix natrix cfr. lanzai and Vipera aspis francisciredi. This Reserve (about 300 ha.) is owned by the University of Camerino and it lies on the county of Macerata, in Marche Region. It extends from 750 m to 1440 m asl, on the Umbria-Marche Apennines, west of the Sibillini mountains. The climax zone of Quercus pubescens characterises the vegetation of the hill level, whereas the climax zone of Fagus silvatica characterises that of the mountain level. The grass vegetation belongs to the phytosociologic Cynosurion and Xenobromion alliance; shrubs and trees belong to Orno-Ostryon and Eu-Fagion. The following herpetologic species are the most representative of the area: Salamandrina terdigitata, Hydromantes italicus and Elaphe quatuorlineata.
Bruno, S. (1980) -
Bruno, S. (1982) -
Bruno, S. (1986) -
Bruno, S. (1988) -
Bruno, S. (1989) -
Bruno, S. & Cesare, E. di (1990) -
Bruno, S. & Maugeri, S. (1976) -
Brusch IV, G.A. & Gavira, R.S.B. & Viton, R. & Dupoué, A. Leroux-Coyau, M. & Meylan, S. & Galliard, J.F. le & Lourdais, O. (2020) -
One of the greatest current threats to biodiversity is climate change. However, understanding of organismal responses to fluctuations in temperature and water availability is currently lacking, especially during fundamental life-history stages such as reproduction. To further explore how temperature and water availability impact maternal physiology and reproductive output, we used the viviparous form of the European common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) in a two-by-two factorial design manipulating both hydric and thermal conditions, for the first time. We collected blood samples and morphological measurements during early pregnancy and post-parturition to investigate how water availability, temperature and a combination of the two influence maternal phenology, morphology, physiology and reproductive output. We observed that dehydration during gestation negatively affects maternal physiological condition (lower mass gain, higher tail reserve mobilization) but has little effect on reproductive output. These effects are mainly additive to temperature regimes, with a proportional increase in maternal costs in warmer environments. Our study demonstrates the importance of considering combined effects of water and temperature when investigating organismal responses to climate changes, especially during periods crucial for species survival such as reproduction
Bruschi, S. & Capula, M. & Corti, C. (2006) -
Bruschi, S. & Carretero, M.A. & Corti, C. & Harris, D.J. & Lo Cascio, P. (2005) -
Bruschi, S. & Cipolla, R.M. & Corti, C. & Nappi, A. (2006) -
Podarcis sicula is widespread in Italy; it is mainly distributed in the peninsula and in Sicily where the species is eurytopic. A huge number of subspecies have been described. One of the most famous and the first that has been described is P. s. coerulea of the Faraglioni di Capri, just off the Gulf of Naples. In the present paper the morphology of these populations has been studied and the data have been analysed using multivariate statistical analysis. The analysis showed a clear differentiation between the two Faraglioni rocks and the other islets, while the two Faraglioni rocks’ populations resulted almost identical to each other.
Bruschi, S. & Corti, C. & Capula, M. (2011) -
Bruschi, S. & Corti, C. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. & Lanza, B. & Leviton, A. (2006) -
Podarcis tiliguertais a lacertid lizard endemic to Corsica, Sardinia and many of their satellite islands. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationships among the various island populations using morphological characters, to assess the usefulness of these characters in phylogenetic studies, and to test the concordance of morphologi- cal and earliergenetical studies. Snout-vent length and 11 pholidotic characters have been studied on 2783 specimens from localities on the two main islands and the majority of theirrespective satellite islands. Data formales and females are analyzed separately using uni- and multivariate statistical methods; the results are compared to previous genetical analyses. With few exceptions, the two populations, one on Corsica, the second on Sardinia (and theirsatellite islands), are readily distinguish- able. We argue that the few exceptions may be due to a foundereffect and/orgenet- ic drift. The male sample from northern Corsica and both sex samples from southern Corsica present unresolved problems because they group with the Sardinian clade. Ourresults, forthe most part, are in accord with those obtained with genetical analy- ses, but furtherstudies are needed to clarify the unresolved questions.
Brusco, A. & Marchianó, R. & Giglio, G. & Piovesan, G. & Sperone, E. (2021) -
Brushko, Z.K. (1995) -
Brusina, S. (1874) -
Brusina, S. (1908) -
Bruyn, F. de (1919) -
Bryant, S.V. & Bellairs, A. D´A. (1967) -
Rates of tail regeneration in the Madeira wall lizard (Lacerta dugesii) and the slow-worm (Anguis fragilis) were studied. L. dugesii regenerates very rapidly, the new tail sometimes attaining a maximum rate of growth of 2`6 mm a day during the fifth week after autotomy. By the twelfth week 90% of the original tail length has been replaced. Average regeneration rates of samples of lizards were reduced after repeated autotomies, but our investigation of this problem was probably complicated by another factor, the amount of tail lost, and is inconclusive. The tip of the regenerate grows more rapidly than the rest; no elongation occurs at its cranial aspect. Anguis, even when kept at 27°C, regenerates its tail very slowly, the best performance observed being a new tail of 5 mm after 14 weeks. The longest natural regenerate seen (16 mm) may have taken several years to produce in the wild. The histological features of regeneration in Anguis are basically similar to those in other lizards. The new osteoderms are formed entirely in the subepidermal tissues but have a regular relationship with the scales. Some nerve fibres are regenerated with the ependymal tube. The scales on the lizard`s regenerating tail develop in a different manner from those in the lizard embryo and show suggestive resemblances to mammalian hairs.
Bryant, S.V. & Bellairs, A. d´A. (1970) -
Bryant, S.V. & Breathnach, A.S. & Bellairs, A. D´A. (1967) -
The ultrastructure of the epidermis of the lizard (Lacerta vivipara) one day after sloughing is described. The non-keratinized layers of the epidermis are essentially similar in structure to those of amphibians and mammals. The cells of the basal layer are not however separated from each other by the large spaces described in the amphibian (Farquhar & Palade, 1965). The middle layers of the epidermis at this stage of the sloughing cycle produce neither the characteristic mucous granules found in amphibians nor the keratohyalin granules of mammals. A small number of granules corresponding in size and location to the “Odland bodies” of both mammalian and amphibian epidermis are, however, present. The intermediate layer cells also contain a number of bodies similar in appearance to those described by Farquhar & Palade as lysosomes in amphibian skin. These structures are both osmium iodide and acid phosphatase positive. Unlike the condition in amphibians and mammals, the cytoplasm of cells in the layer immediately beneath the keratinized strata is honeycombed with small vesicles, and contains large irregular vacuoles of uncertain content. Certain nonkeratinizing elements within the epidermis are tentatively interpreted as nerve terminations. Two morphologically distinct keratinized strata can be distinguished, the inner stratum consisting of flattened cells similar to those of the stratum corneum of mammalian epidermis; individual cell outlines cannot be distinguished in the outer stratum, which has a structure similar to that of avian feather keratin. A shallow surface zone of the outer keratinized stratum has been identified as the Oberhautchen. This consists of longitudinally disposed leaflets or laminae which are responsible for the sculptured pattern of the epidermal surface. The observations reported here provide a basis for analysis of changes occurring at other stages of the sloughing cycle.
Brydegaard, M. & Runemark, A. & Bro, R. (2012) -
In this paper, we demonstrate how to take advantage of the large number of spatial samples provided by commercial multispectral RGB imagers. We investigate the possibility to use various multidimensional histograms and probability distributions for decomposition and predictive models. We show how these methods can be used in an example using images of different Skyros wall lizards and demonstrate improved performance in prediction of color morph compared with traditional parameterization techniques of spatial variance.
Brygoo, E.R. (1988) -
Buades Payeras, J.M. (2017) -
This thesis comprises part of a wider project that addresses the evolution of Mediterranean lizards of the genus Podarcis (Wagler, 1830), and is mainly focused on insular populations. This genus is widespread across the Mediterranean basin. They exhibit a great intraspecific variability in morphological traits. In particular, melanic and non-melanic populations (which are completely green or brown, and/or with intermediate coloration) are found on different islands. The causes for this variability remain unknown. The Podarcis genus contains various insular endemism such as Podarcis tiliguerta from Corsica and Sardinia islands, and P. lilfordi and P. pityusensis from the Balearic archipelago. The Mediterranean basin is considered a biodiversity hotspot due to the presence of an exceptional number of endemic species and Podarcis provides an important component of this biodiversity. It can provide information on the effects of fragmentation and/or degradation of habitat. Analyses of Podarcis also have important implications for conservation of the group itself: understanding the evolutionary framework provides a basis for future conservation actions. The present thesis is focused on the molecular study of the evolution of several Mediterranean Podarcis. It aims to build on and extend previous studies that made evolutionary inferences from just the mitochondrial DNA. This is achieved by analysing several nuclear markers (MC1R, RAG1, APOBE28, BLC9L, KIAA2018 and KIF24) in combination with mtDNA data. The main aim is to address two important evolutionary questions: i) Factors determining melanism in insular populations P. lilfordi and P. pityusensis present an important colour variation and polymorphism in the MC1R gene has been related to pigmentation in other species. Therefore, the relationship between DNA substitutions and melanism in different populations was studied. We did not detect any differences in the MC1R sequence that we analysed and so this sequence does not appear to be the basis of the colour variation in these Balearic Podarcis. Differences in gene expression were also compared between melanic and nonmelanic individuals, but no differences that were directly related to MC1R expression were detected. Nevertheless, the transcriptome profiles of melanic and non-melanic individuals from two populations of P. lilfordi did show some differences. The main differences found between the two groups were: non-melanic samples showed overexpression of stress-response genes, while melanic individuals had higher metabolic rates and an increased inflammatory response to exogenous antigens. Despite finding differences in expression, our study was unable to reveal major insights into the genetic basis of melanism in these island lizards. ii) Phylogeny and phylogeography of different endemic species. This work contributes important findings relevant to the systematics and evolution of the species P. tiliguerta endemic to Corsica and Sardina. Using Bayesian phylogenetic dating, we determined that this species originated ~11 Ma ago. Both markers (nuclear genes and mtDNA) showed a high level of intraspecific divergence, especially between Corsica and Sardinia. Ancient divergence (which was estimated at 9.5 Ma ago) and associated high levels of between-island lineage sorting in nuclear markers support the view that Corsican and Sardinian populations should be recognized as two different species. Podarcis were also studied from the Columbretes archipelago, a small island group off the coast east of Spain. Populations were previously recognized as a subspecies of P. hispanica or as P. atrata species. However, the suitability of this taxonomic designation has been made unclear by recent systematics studies of Podarcis that have led to major taxonomic changes. We used nuclear and mitochondrial genes to define their phylogenetic relationships. Columbretes populations were found to be most closely related to the new taxon P. liolepis.
Buades, J.M. & Rodríguez, V. & Terrasa, B. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Brown, R.P. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2013) -
The association between polymorphism at the mc1r locus and colour variation was studied in two wall lizard species (Podarcis lilfordi and P. pityusensis) from the Balearic archipelago. Podarcis lilfordi comprises several deep mitochondrial lineages, the oldest of which originated in the Pliocene, while much shallower mitochondrial lineages are found in P. pityusensis. Here, we examined whether specific substitutions were associated with the melanic colouration found in islet populations of these species. Homologous nuclear sequences covering most of the mc1r gene were obtained from 73 individuals from melanic and non-melanic Podarcis from different populations (the entire gene was also sequenced in six selected individuals). MtDNA gene trees were also constructed and used as a framework to assess mc1r diversity. Mc1r showed greater polymorphism in P. lilfordi than in P. pityusensis. However, we observed no substitutions that were common to all melanic individuals across the two species. Only one significant association was detected in the mc1r partial sequence, but this was a synonymous A/G mutation with A alleles being more abundant in melanic populations. In addition, there were no associations between the main dominant phenotypes (green and brown, blue and yellow spots and ventral colour) and synonymous or non-synonymous substitutions in the mc1r gene. There was no statistical evidence of selection on mc1r. This study suggests no relationship between mc1r polymorphism and colour variation in Balearic Podarcis.
Buades, J.M. & Rodríguez, V. & Terrasa, B. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2010) -
Buchert, I. & Buchert, P. (2011) -
Buchholz, K.F. (1954) -
Buchholz, K.F. (1960) -
Buchholz, K.F. (1962) -
Buchholz, K.F. (1963) -
Buchholz, K.F. (1965) -
1. Der Name Algyroides hidalgoi kann nicht als nomen dubium aufgefaßt werden. Nach der detaillierten Beschreibung von Boscá ist das Taxon ohne weiteres identifizierbar. 2. Algyroides hidalgoi Boscá und A. marchi Valverde müssen als verschiedene Species aufgefaßt werden. Sie unterscheiden sich weitgehend in Zeichnung, Färbung und morphologischen Merkmalen. 3. Algyroides marchi wird aus der Sierra de Agua (Jaén) nachgewiesen, und diese blaukehlige Population als A. marchi niethammeri subsp.nov. beschrieben.
Buchoz, P. (1771) -
Buckley, J. (1988) -
Buckley, J. & Cole, M. (2004) -
Budak, A. (1976) -
Budak, A. & Böhme, W. (1978) -
New material of Turkish rock-lizards of the rudis-group (Lacerta semcoZa-complex) can be assigned to the forms r. rudis, r. tristis and r. obscura; thus, the last named form is recorded for the first time for Turkey. Geographically intermediate samples could be interpreted as clinal, connecting r. rudis and r. tristis, but it turns out to be more likely, that there are two sympatric different taxa overlapping in the intermediate zone. This possibility which could not be proved until now leads to several extraordinaryly difficult nomenclatorial conclusions. They will be discussed further in a following contribution.
Budak, A. & Göçmen, B. (1995) -
The sixty-seven specimens collected from the north of Girne-Begparmak Mountain Range on the island of Cyprus and the specimens of Lacertalaevislaevisfrom Anatolia, which have been studied by Budak (1). are examined comparatively for taxonomical features, and the description of the race from Cyprus Island is reviewed. In conclusion, the subspecies of L. I.troodica, which have been described by Werner (2) based on a total of 6 specimens. can not be distinguished from the continental specimens with the diagnostic features given. In distinguishing the two races, we present two different and new characteristics which may point to a difference in species level. The following taxonomic key is proposed for diagnosis: 1. Median gularia number is high (average 25), the scales of gular region very small; parallell `subocular bands` extend below the temporal bands, and below these an orange-red region is present ...........L. I.troodica. - Median gularia number is less (average 20). gular scales larger: the subocular lines below the temporal bands extend up to the mid-trunk level .......... L. I.laevis.
Budak, A. & Tok, C.V. & Mermer, A. (1998) -
9 species of lizards and 2 species of snakes, belonging to a total of seven families were collected from Kumluca-Kalkan between 8 and 10 April 1997.
Buehler, M.D. & Zoljargal, P. & Purvee, E. & Munkhbayar, K. & Munkhbaatar, M. & Batsaikhan, N. & Ananjeva, N.B. & Orlov, N.L. & Papenfuss, T.J. & Roldán-Pina, D. & Grismer, D.L.L. & Oaks, J.R. & Brown, R.M. & Grismer, J.L. (2021) -
The National University of Mongolia, the Mongolian State University of Education, the University of Nebraska, and the University of Kansas conducted four collaborative expeditions between 2010 and 2014, resulting in accounts for all species of lacertid and agamid, except Phrynocephalus kulagini. These expeditions resulted in a range extension for Eremias arguta and the collection of specimens and tissues across 134 unique localities. In this paper we summarize the species of the Agamidae (Paralaudakia stoliczkana, Ph. hispidus, Ph. helioscopus, and Ph. versicolor) and Lacertidae (E. argus, E. arguta, E. dzungarica, E. multiocellata, E. przewalskii, and E. vermiculata) that were collected during these four expeditions. Further, we provide a summary of all species within these two families in Mongolia. Finally, we discuss issues of Wallacean and Linnaean shortfalls for the herpetofauna of the Mongolian Gobi Desert, and provide future directions for studies of community assemblages and population genetics of reptile species in the region.
Bufkens, M. (2014) -
Buggenum, H.J.M. van (1990) -
In dit artikel worden gegevens over de verspreiding op uurhokbasis van de in Limburg aangetroffen amfibieën en reptielen kort samengevat.
Buglione, M. & Maselli, V. & Trapanese, M. & Salvemini, M. & Aceto, S. & Cosmo, A. di & Fuglione, D. (2019) -
The ecological theory of island biogeography suggests that mainland populations should be more genetically divergent from those on large and distant islands rather than from those on small and close islets. Some island populations do not evolve in a linear way, but the process of divergence occurs more rapidly because they undergo a series of phenotypic changes, jointly known as the Island Syndrome. A special case is Reversed Island Syndrome (RIS), in which populations show drastic phenotypic changes both in body shape, skin colouration, age of sexual maturity, aggressiveness, and food intake rates. The populations showing the RIS were observed on islets nearby mainland and recently raised, and for this they are useful models to study the occurrence of rapid evolutionary change. We investigated the timing and mode of evolution of lizard populations adapted through selection on small islets. For our analyses, we used an ad hoc model system of three populations: wildtype lizards from the mainland and insular lizards from a big island (Capri, Italy), both Podarcis siculus siculus not affected by the syndrome, and a lizard population from islet (Scopolo) undergoing the RIS (called P. s. coerulea because of their melanism). The split time of the big (Capri) and small (Scopolo) islands was determined using geological events, like sealevel rises. To infer molecular evolution, we compared five complete mitochondrial genomes for each population to reconstruct the phylogeography and estimate the divergence time between island and mainland lizards. We found a lower mitochondrial mutation rate in Scopolo lizards despite the phenotypic changes achieved in approximately 8,000 years. Furthermore, transcriptome analyses showed significant differential gene expression between islet and mainland lizard populations, suggesting the key role of plasticity in these unpredictable environments.
Buglione, M. & Petrelli, S. & Maselli, V. & Trapanese, M. & Salvemini, M. & Aceto, S. & Cosmo, A. di & Fulgione, D. (2019) -
Buglione, M. & Ricca, E. & Pedtrelli, S. & Baccigalupi, L. & Troiano, C. & Saggese, A. & Rivieccio, E. & Fulgione, D. (2022) -
Animals living on small islands are more drastically exposed to environmental changes, such as food or water starvation, and rapid temperature shifts. Facing such conditions, and probably thank to adaptive plasticity mechanisms, some animals display a Reversed Island Syndrome (RIS), a suite of traits, including skin pigmentation, voracity, sexual dimorphism, showed differently from mainland relatives. Here, we analyse a so far poorly explored aspect of RIS: the effect of this on the microbiota composition of host Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus), strongly influenced by the animal’s lifestyle, and conditioning the same. We compare mainland and island populations, assessing the difference between their microbial communities and their response under unexpected food, experimentally provided. Our observations showed a significant difference in microbiota communities between island and mainland groups, depended mainly from changes in relative abundance of the shared genera (difference due to decrease/increase). Exposure to experimental diet regimes resulted into significative reshaping of bacterial composition of microbiota and a greater variation in body mass only in the island population. Our results could be an evidence that gut microbial community contributes to adaptive plasticity mechanisms of island lizards under RIS to efficiently respond to unexpected changes.
Bühler, M. (2015) -
Bühler, M. (2014) -
Buiswalelo, B.N. (2018) -
The objectives of this study were to describe reproduction, diet, nematode infection and sexual dimorphism in Agama anchietae and Pedioplanis undata undata, two Namibian lizard species with wide geographic distributions for which such baseline ecological information is still lacking. The specimens used in the study came from the preserved Herpetological Collection of the National Museum of Namibia. Agama anchietae occupies rocky areas and the findings were as follows, reproduction: (i) it reproduces in spring and summer, the warm and rainy season of Namibia when insect food abounds, presumably to optimize the survival of its offspring, (ii) the gonads were inactive during autumn and winter, (iii) the mass of its abdominal fat bodies and liver decreased during the reproductive period, presumably because they serve as sources of energy during that time; diet: (i) prey items consumed by the sexes belonged to the orders Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera and Mantodea, (ii) in addition to these an item belonging to the Diptera was also found in males, (iii) no significant numerical differences were found between the sexes with respect to the items consumed, (iv) the fact that hymenopterans occurred in substantially higher numbers suggest that the species relies mainly on sit-and-wait foraging; nematode infection: (i) in both sexes a larger number of nematodes occurred in the stomach than in the intestine, (ii) no significant numerical differences in infection were found between the sexes; sexual dimorphism: (i) males were larger than females in absolute body size, (ii) relative hind-limb but not forelimb length of males was significantly longer than that of females; (iii) relative head breath, length and width of males were all significantly greater than that of females. Pedioplanis undata undata occurs in flat open areas and the findings were as follows, reproduction: (i) a similar pattern with respect to the activity of the gonads as reported for A. anchietae above was also found in this species, (ii) the same also applied to the mass fluctuations of the abdominal fat bodies and the liver; diet: (i) males consumed items belonging to the orders Hymenoptera, Isoptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Blatoidea, Solifugida as well as larvae, (ii) in females the prey items belonged to the Hymenoptera, Orthoptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera and Aranea, (iii) no significant numerical differences were found between the sexes for similar prey items, (iv) the low numbers of hymenopterans but fairly high diversity of prey types suggest that this species is a wide forager; nematode infection: (i) in both the stomach and intestine nematode infection was low with that of the stomach marginally higher than that of the intestine, (ii) no significant numerical differences were found between males and females; sexual dimorphism: (i) males and females were of similar body size, (ii) males had significantly longer fore-and hind-limbs than females, and may therefore be able to run faster, (iii) relative head breath, length and width of males were all significantly greater than that of females.
Buitenen, N. van (1963) -
Bukowsky, J. (2018) -
Bulakhova, N.A. (2004) -
Булахова, Н.А. (2004) -
Bulakhova, N.A. (2013) -
The snout vent length (SVL) in females of the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara Jacq. 1787) was revealed to depend significantly on its physiological condition. In the second half of pregnancy in all the investigated in dividuals (n=88; 63.0 ± 0.4, 54.6–71.1 mm), SVL was significantly greater (t = 19.9, p ≤ 0.001), than that in the individuals killed shortly after parturition (59.7 ± 0.4, 50.2–67.1 mm). The control measurement of 29 alive females showed that the SVL was reduced immediately after parturition. The absolute change of the SVL (ΔSVL) was, on the average, 3.3 ± 0.2 (0.3–7.4) mm, or 5.2 ± 0.3 (0.5–11.5)%. A probable cause of this re duction is a displacement of the cloacal fissure in pregnant Z. vivipara due to changes in the position of pelvic bones under the pressure of eggs filling the abdominal cavity. An adverse dependence of ΔSVL on SVL was found in females after parturition (rs = –0.32, p ≤ 0.005). Each egg in the second half of pregnancy leads to the increase of SVL in small sized and large sized females, on the average, by 0.7 and 0.4 mm, respectively. The results found showed that the results of measurements might be distorted in processing the data on mixed groups of individuals.
Булахова Н.А. (2013) -
Выявлено, что у самок живородящей ящерицы (Zootoca vivipara Jacq. 1787) длина туловища (L) существенно зависит от физиологического состояния. Во второй половине беременности у всех исследованных особей (n = 88; 63.0 ± 0.4, 54.671.1 мм) она была значимо выше (t = 19.9, p 0.001), чем у этих же особей, умерщвленных вскоре после родов (59.7 ± 0.4, 50.267.1 мм). Контрольное измерение 29 живых самок показало, что сокращение длины туловища происходит сразу после родов. Абсолютное изменение длины туловища (n = 88) составило в среднем 3.3 ± 0.2 (0.37.4) мм, или 5.2± 0.3 (0.511.5)%. Вероятный источник возникновения различий каудальное смещение положения клоакальной щели у беременных Z. vivipara из-за изменения угла наклона тазовых костей, вызванного давлением на них яиц, заполняющих брюшную полость. Выявлена отрицательная зависимость абсолютного изменения ( L) от длины родивших самок (rs = 0.32, p 0.005). Каждое яйцо во второй половине беременности приводит к увеличению длины туловища мелких самок в среднем на 0.7 мм, крупных самок на 0.4 мм. Возникающие различия существенны и свидетельствуют об опасности искажения результатов измерений и основанных на них коэффициентов и индексов при обработке смешанных групп особей.
Bulakhova, N.A. & Kuranova, V.N. & Saveliev, S.V. (2007) -
The average and maximum life intervals, the age of sexual maturity attaining, the age structure and peculiarities of growth are studied by the longitudinal thin sections of cortical bones with the help of polarized light in nine populations of sand (Lacerta agilis) and common (Zootoca vivipara) lizards of the south-east territories of Western Siberia. The influence of abiotic factors to the main demographical structure characteristics of both populations are shown.
Bulakhova, N.A. & Shamgunova, R.R. & Matkovskii, A.V. (2011) -
Four hibernation sites of the common lizard (Zootoca vivípara Jacq. 1787) were described in the northern and southern taiga of Western Siberia. The depth of their location (10-15 cm) was similar in the natural habitat (the peat soil of a felled area in a birch-pine forest with Ledum palustre and Cladonia and Cladina lichens) and in the anthropogenic habitat (the soil of gardens). In search of Z. vivipara hibernation sites in Western Siberia, an area of 0.2 ha where the lizard permanently inhabit nearby the city of Tomsk (56°30` N, 84°53` E) was thoroughly examined. However, no lizards were found in rotten trunks or grass sod and coverts (tree waste, wind fallen trees, bark pieces, decayed boards). The observations of lizards kept in an open-air enclosure showed a serious danger they face during wintering periods on the land surface (tree waste, moss), in the upper soil layer (2-4 CM) and in holes of small rodents: most of wintering lizards in our experimental enclosure were killed by rodents. Our results and published data evidence that hibernation sites of common lizards in Western Siberia are located mainly in the upper soil layer (10-15 CM), but not on the soil surface.
Bülbül, U. & Eroglu, A.I. & Kurnaz, M. & Koc, H. & Odabas, Y. (2019) -
Many wild animals are exposed to road kills in the world. Amphibians and reptiles which live near the roads are the most endangered groups among vertebrates related to the road kills. However, there are only few studies about the road kills of amphibians and reptiles in Turkey. We recorded 23 individuals (6 amphibian individuals belonging to 2 species and 17 reptile individuals belonging to 9 species) exposed to road kills on the E87 highway on June 18-22, 2016 in Kırklareli province while we found 134 individuals (114 amphibian individuals belonging to 3 species and 20 reptile individuals belonging to 8 species) killed on the Enez-Ipsala highway on June 22-25, 2016 in Edirne province. The individuals killed more often belonged to Pelophylax ridibundus and Bufotes variabilis in the Edirne while the species more affected by road kills were Pelophylax ridibundus, Lacerta trilineata, Dolichophis caspius and Testudo graeca in Kırklareli. The results of this short-term study show that there is a need for long-term studies to show that amphibians and reptiles exposed to road kills are very common.
Bülbül, U. & Koc-Gür, H. & Albayrak, M. & Bayrak, M.O. & Özkan, H. & Kutrup, B. (2021) -
Life-history traits (e.g. body size, sexual size dimorphism and age) of a Turkish population of the Lebanon lizard Phoenicolacerta laevis were studied using skeletochronology techniques. We measured phalangeal bones (n = 30). The mean snout-vent length (SVL) was slightly different between the sexes. We recorded weakly expressed sexual size dimorphism: the snout-vent-length of the males was slightly bigger (SDI = -0.01). Sexual maturity was attained between the second and the fourth year of life in both sexes. The age ranged from 3 to 11 years in females and from 3 to 12 years in males. The mean SVL was 65.33 ± 3.06 mm in females and 66.59± 3.76 mm in males. The mean age was 6.67 ± 2.63 years in females and 6.47 ± 2.75 years in males. There was no statistically significant difference in mean age between the sexes.
Bülbül, U. & Koc-Gür, H. & Özkan, H. & Zaman, E. (2022) -
Some life-history traits (e.g. body size, SSD and age) of the Danford’s lizard Anatololacerta danfordi were studied applying skeletochronology techniques to the phalangeal bones (n = 33). The mean of the snout-vent-length (SVL) was 59.02 ± 1.07 mm in females and 62.17 ± 1.38 mm in males. The mean SVL was not significantly different between sexes. Sexual size dimorphism was weakly expressed in the slightly bigger SVL of the males (SDI = -0.053). Sexual maturity was attained between the second and the fourth year of life in both sexes. The age ranged from 2 to 6 years in females and from 3 to 8 years in males. The means of age were 4.29 ± 0.31 LAGs in female specimens and 4.63 ± 0.37 LAGs in male specimens. The mean age was not significantly different between the sexes.
Bülbül, U. & Koc, H. & Eroglu, A.I. & Odabas, Y. & Kurnaz, M. & Kutrup, B. (2023) -
The present study was designed to obtain information about life history traits of Lacerta viridis in the Belen population with an altitude of 292 m. In the adult sample (21 males and 15 females), the age ranged from 3 – 10 (X = 6.97) years for both sexes collectively, 5 – 10 (X = 7.43) years in males, 3 – 8 (X = 6.33) years in females and not differed significantly between sexes. Age at sexual maturity was 2 – 3 years for both sexes. However, a confirmation is required with some sexual characters (e.g., the presence of eggs for female, developed hemipenes for male) for age at sexual maturity in both sexes. The mean body size (SVL) was not significantly different between sexes. There was no correlation between SVL and age for males while there was a positive correlation for females. A male.
Bülbül, U. & Koc, H. & Orhan, Y. & Odabas, Y. & Kutrup, B. (2019) -
It is a fact that the amphibians and reptiles respond to unfavourable weather conditions by searching an underground refuge to survive during winter. The current literature has shown that some species of reptilians and amphibians may become active before their known end of hibernation periods, especially in lowland areas. In the present study, it has been detected that the changing weather conditions in a highland area in Gümüshane, Turkey can cause similar effects on Lacerta media, Bufo bufo and Rana macrocnemis that share the same habitats. One of the reasons of the early activities of some reptilian and amphibian species before their known end of hibernation periods may be the high sensitivity of these species to the changing temperature conditions. Effects of global warming on reptilians and amphibians obvious, and some members of these animals can even be active during winter. This conclusion brings into mind that L. media, B. bufo and R. macrocnemis can continue to be active at highland areas as long as air temperature values allow them.
Bülbül, U. & Koc, H. & Özkan, H. & Öztürk, I. & Kutrup, B. (2019) -
In this study, it was given the locality record of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) from Yeşilköy Village, Pazar District of Rize Province of Turkey. This new record revealed the second locality for L. agilis from the eastern Black Sea coast of Anatolia. The metric and meristic features of the adult, subadult and juvenile specimens were compared to the features of the specimens of the species, L. agilis in the literature.
Bülbül, U. & Kurnaz, M. & Eroğlu, A.I. & Koc, H. & Kutrup, B. (2015) -
The lacertid lizard Podarcis tauricus tauricus is recorded from Yörükköy, Düzce Province, in the western Black Sea region. With the record of the present study, the known distribution area of the subspecies has been extended about 90 km eastward. The pholidolial and morphometric characters and color-pattern features of the specimens were compared with specimens from a known Turkish locality with regard to the literature. We observed that the specimens of the Yörükköy population were similar to P. T. Tauricus specimens reported in the literature.
Bülbül, U. & Kurnaz, M. & Eroğlu, A.I. & Koç, H. & Kutrup, B. (2016) -
In the present study, we investigated potential effects of some environmental climatic factors on life-history traits of two Darevskia parvula populations located at different elevation sites and evaluated age, body size, SSD and growth rate results in these lizards. The age at maturity and longevity were found to be similar in both populations. Males of the highland population had significantly larger snout-vent length and older age than those of the lowland population. Although the mean ages of females were not significantly different between the two populations, the highland population had significantly larger snout-vent length than the lowland population. Considering all individuals (both males and females), we found that specimens from the population in the higher-elevation site had significantly larger snout-vent length and older age than those of the lower-elevation site. A low level of male-biased sexual size dimorphism was observed in both populations. The growth coefficient was lower in the high-elevation site than the lower elevation site. Growth rates were not significantly different between the populations. Our preliminary results indicate that although our studied populations were located at different elevation sites and had distinct climate, longevity, age at sexual maturity and growth rate results were similar. This may be a reason of the lower male-biased sexual size dimorphism in both populations.
Bülbül, U. & Kurnaz, M. & Eroğlu, A.I. & Koc, H. & Kutrup, B. (2016) -
We investigated age structure, body size and longevity in two breeding populations of Darevskia clarkorum inhabiting altitudes ranging from 450 m a.s.l. (Kamilet) to 2250 m a.s.l. (Basyayla) in Turkey by skeletochronology performed on the phalanges. The mean age was found to be 6 years in the Kamilet population and 7 years in the Basyayla population. The maximum life span was 10 years in the lowland population while it was 12 years in the highland population. Age at sexual maturity of both males and females was 1-2 years in the lowland population while it was 2-3 for both sexes in the highland population. Both age and SVL of specimens from the Kamilet population were significantly different between the sexes while age and SVL did not differ significantly between the sexes in Basyayla population. As a conclusion, we observed that the mean age, longevity and age at maturity were increased by altitude while there was a decrease based on the mean SVL in the highland population of D. clarkorum. Our data on body size, longevity and age at sexual maturity may contribute to conservation efforts for this endangered species.
Bülbül, U. & Özkan, H. & Koc, H. (2022) -
The Pamphylian green lizard, Lacerta pamphylica, whose distribution is only known from Antalya and Mersin provinces of Turkey, is recorded in the Isparta Province for the first time in the present study. The present note re ports the new locality records of L. pamphylica, which constitutes the species’ the northernmost known Turkish locality. With the record of the present study, the known distribution area of the species has been extended about 100 km to the northward. The pholidolial and morphometric characters and color-pattern features of the specimens were found similar to the specimens of L. pamphylica reported in the literature.
Bulcsú, D. (2014) -
Bulla, S. (2000) -
Bund für Naturschutz (2019) -
Bund-Duisburg (2005) -
Bund, C.F. van de (1956) -
Bund, C.F. van de (1959) -
Bund, C.F. van de (1964) -
Bundesamt für Naturschutz (2020) -
Bündnis Naturschutz in Dithmarschen e.V. (2010) -
Bunyatova, S.N. & Dzhafarova, S.K. (2019) -
Background. From the genus Darevskia in the territory of Azerbaijan Republic noted 11 species (D. armeniaca, D. caucasica, D. chlorogaster, D. daghestanica, D. derjugini, D. portschinskii, D. praticola, D. raddei, D. rostombekovi, D. rudis, D. valentini). Information on the condition of rock lizards in the republic has not been updated for a long time. The aim of the work was to clarify the data on the distribution and abundance of these species in Azerbaijan. Materials and methods. The research was carried in the Talysh Mountains (Lenkoran, Lerik and Yardimli districts of Azerbaijan in 2008–2011), in the Great Caucasus (Guba, Gusar, Gabala and Zagatala districts in 2013–2016), in the Minor Caucasus (Dashkesen, Gadabay and Tovuz districts in 2017–2018). Results. On the basis of own data and analysis of literature sources the data on the distribution and number of rock lizards from the genus Darevskia in Azerbaijan are given. The authors note that the areas of forest lizards of the Talysh (D. chlorogaster and D. praticola hyrcanica) are being reduced and these species need legisla- tive protection. The extinct species for the territory of the Republic should be considered D. derjugini.
Бунятова, С.Н. & Джафарова, С.К. (2019) -
Актуальность и цели. Из представителей рода Darevskia на территории Азербайджанской Республики отмечены 11 видов (D. armeniaca, D. caucasica, D. chlorogaster, D. daghestanica, D. derjugini, D. portschinskii, D. praticola, D. raddei, D. rostombekovi, D. rudis, D. valentini). Сведения по состоянию скаль- ных ящериц в стране длительное время не обновлялись. Целью работы явля- лось уточнение данных по распространению и численности этих видов в Азер- байджане. Материалы и методы. Исследования проводили в Талышских горах (Ленко- ранский, Лерикский и Ярдымлинский районы Азербайджана в 2008–2011 гг.), на Большом Кавказе (Губинский, Гусарский, Габалинский и Закатальский рай- оны в 2013–2016 гг.), на Малом Кавказе (Дашкесанский, Кедабекский и Товуз- ский районы в 2017–2018 гг.). Результаты. На основании собственных данных и анализа литературных источников приводятся сведения по распространению и численности скальных ящериц рода Darevskia в Азербайджане. Авторы отмечают, что сокращаются ареалы лесных ящериц Талыша (D. chlorogaster и D. praticola hyrcanica) и они нуждаются в законодательной охране. Вымершим видом для территории рес- публики следует считать D. derjugini.
Buono, S. & Christiano, L. & D`Angelo, B. & Cimini, A. & Putti, R. (2007) -
The majority of environmental pollutants are potential peroxisomal proliferators which include a heterogeneous group of compounds known to determine massive peroxisomal proliferation and hepatocarcinogenesis in rodents. Peroxisomal proliferation is accompanied by the induction of the peroxisomal fatty acid beta-oxidation pathway mediated by a class of transcription factors named peroxisome proliferators activated receptors (PPARs). This phenomenon demonstrated also in ectotherm animals after exposition to environmental pollutants may be utilized as biomarker in environmental impact studies. In the present work we have tested the sensitivity to methyl thiophanate (TM) of the lizard Podarcis sicula in order to propose a biological model for monitoring the ecotoxicological effects of this pesticide on terrestrial sentinel species. The data obtained demonstrate that exposition to sub-lethal concentrations of TM leads to hepatocellular morphological changes and glycogen depletion, apoptosis, as well as probable peroxisomal proliferation attested by the increase of acyl-CoA oxidase (AOX). This effect seems to be mediated by the concomitant increase of PPARalpha. On the basis of these results we propose that also in Podarcis sicula, as just proposed for aquatic organisms, peroxisomal proliferation and AOX increase may be considered new biomarkers to evaluate pollution by organic compound in terrestrial environments.
Burda, R. & Weickmann, D. (2001) -
Bureau, L. (1893) -
Buresch, I. & Zonkow, J. (1933) -
Burger, M. (2014) -
Burger, M. & Hahndiek, Q. (1993) -
Burger, R. & Hoffmann-Ogrizek, D. (2009) -
Burgers, J. (1951) -
Buric, D. (2017) -
Podarcis melisellensis (Dalmatian wall lizard) and Podarcis siculus (Italian wall lizard) are related lizard species of family Lacertidae. Field and laboratory research have demonstrated that P. melisellensis is being competitively excluded by P. siculus, especially on small islands. Besides differences in size and diet, one of the reasons for the endangerment of P. melisellensis might be a difference in behavior, which is primarily regulated through monoamine neurotransmitter systems. The aim of this thesis was adaptation of the current method for measurement of serotonin concentrations in the rat brain by HPLC for measurements in the lizard brain, and search for the potential difference in serotonin concentrations as a possible neurobiological background of the observed differences in behavior. The method was successfully adapted for measurements in the lizard brain with optimal pH of 2,8, and injection volume of the sample of 30 mL. Linearity and selectivity of the method, as well as daily reproducibility was satisfactory. Serotonin concentrations in the brains of P. melisellensis i P. siculus, did not significantly differ. Gender difference was also not significant. We can therefore assume that previously observed differences in behavior might be induced primarily by differences in catecholamine levels in the brains of the two lizard species.
Podarcis melisellensis (krška gušterica) i Podarcis siculus (primorska gušterica) srodne su gušterice iz porodice Lacertidae. Terenskim i laboratorijskim istraživanjima pokazano je da P. siculus kompeticijom istiskuje P. melisellensis, osobito na manjim otocima. Uz razliku u veličini i načinu prehrane, jedan od razloga ugroženosti krške gušterice mogla bi biti i razlika u ponašanju, koje je prvenstveno regulirano monoaminskim neurotransmitorskim sustavima. Cilj ovog diplomskog rada bio je prilagoditi postojeću metodu mjerenja razine serotonina u mozgu štakora HPLC-om za mjerenje u mozgu gušterice te istražiti postoji li razlika u koncentraciji serotonina između ove dvije vrste, kao neurobiološka osnova ranije opaženih razlika u ponašanju. Metoda je uspješno prilagođena za mjerenja u mozgu gušterice pri čemu optimalni pH vodene faze iznosi 2,8, a injekcijski volumen uzorka 30 mL, dok je linearnost i selektivnost metode, kao i ponovljivost unutar dana zadovoljavajuća. Koncentracije serotonina u mozgu gušterica P. melisellensis i P. siculus, nisu se statistički značajno razlikovale, a razlika nije uočena ni između spolova. Stoga pretpostavljamo da su ranije opažene razlike u ponašanju prvenstveno rezultat razlike u razini katekolamina u mozgu ovih dviju vrsta gušterica.
Buric, I. & Jelić, D. (2011) -
Buric, I. & Lisičic, D. (2018) -
Marking individuals is often needed in field and behaviour studies that required repeated identification of individual animals. With the development of technology, older methods like scale or toe clipping, branding, painting, tagging, banding are slowly being replaced by technology facilitated identifications. In last decade non-intrusive and inexpensive digital identification of individual animals become popular and with these method large sets of individuals can be re-identified. I3S Software is originally developed for identification of sharks but has successfully been already used for identification of Lacertidae lizard species. Mosor rock lizard is an endemic species of western Balkans. It’s area of occurrence is approximated to be less than 2000 km2. It is also a Natura 2000 species. In 2017, an extensive study of ist population parameters and biology has started on Mt. Biokovo, Croatia. To facilitate the correct identification of each individual, we used the program Interactive Individual Identification System. Photographs of first four rows of ventral scales of the lizard body were used for identification and comparison. Preliminary results based on 30 individuals were satisfactory, and all the individuals could be distinguished successfully by the program. With larger datasets, it is possible that the identification could be more time consuming, but in that case, additional parameters like sex or colorations may be used for correct identification.
Buric, I. & Merdan, S. & Lisicic, D. (2018) -
Burke, R. (2005) -
Burke, R. (2010) -
Burke, R.L. & Deichsel, G. (2008) -
Two species of lacertid lizards, Italian Wall Lizards (= “Ruin” Lizards), Podarcis sicula, and Common Wall Lizards, P. muralis, have been successfully introduced into at least 7 urban and suburban locations in North America, all close to the same general latitudes as their native ranges. The Pennsylvania Podarcis population is apparently extinct but the other Podarcis are expanding their new ranges. Extant Podarcis populations have been studied to a limited extent, and their date of origin, number of released individuals, and source population can be reliably estimated. A third species, Western Green Lacertas, Lacerta bilineata, has been introduced to Kansas, USA but is apparently not spreading. Whereas other lizard species have been successfully introduced in the southern United States, these lacertid populations are the only successful introductions of lizards into temperate North America. It is not coincidental that they are restricted to urban and suburban areas. Few native North American lizards exploit urban habitats above 35o latitude, so lacertids encounter few native competitors. These lacertid species thrive in urban/suburban areas in southern Europe, and are common commensals with humans there because they are diet and habitat generalists that quickly habituate to new environmental conditions, including the presence of humans. They are also apparently well adapted to the specialized guild of potential predators that inhabit urban areas in both their native and new habitats.
Burke, R.L. & Goldberg, S.R. & Bursey, C.R. & & Perkins, S.L. & Andreadis, P.T. (2007) -
We surveyed all four extant North America populations of introduced Podarcis (Podarcis muralis and Podarcis sicula) for helminths and hematozoans; both parasite groups infect these lizards in their native European habitats. We found only small numbers of helminths and no hematozoans. We conclude that either these two Podarcis species did not bring many parasites with them, appropriate intermediate hosts are lacking, or that these populations have not been in North America long enough for new parasite faunas to become established.
Burke, R.L. & Hussain, A.A. & Storey, J.M. & Storey, K.B. (2002) -
Italian wall lizards (Podarcis sicula campestris) were introduced to Long Island, New York, in 1967 and have subsequently spread through many urban and suburban communities. Their ability to spread further may be limited by their ability to tol- erate the relatively cold winters of New York. We found that these lizards were able to sur vive cold temperatures by supercooling if they were kept dr y. However, if freezing was initiated as would be expected under shallow hibernation conditions, these lizards froze and died rapidly. We speculate that Podarcis sicula must hibernate below soil freezing depth, estimated at greater than 24 cm deep, to sur vive.
Burke, R.L. & Mercurio, R.J. (2002) -
We studied the food habits of the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis sicula, that was introduced to Long Island, New York in 1966. We recovered 436 prey items from 96 lizards. There was no significant relationship between the percentage of lizards without prey items and date of capture. On average, females had significantly more prey items per lizard, lower overall prey diversity and lower prey evenness, than did males. This suggests important dif- ferences in foraging habits between the sexes. We found remarkably high similarity between prey species diversity for the Long Island and two of four European populations. There was no correlation between prey size and either head width or snout-vent length of the lizards.
Burke, R.L. & Ner, S.E. (2005) -
Lizard behaviour can be influenced by ultimate forces such as adaptation and phylogeny, and proximate forces such as temperature and rainfall, Italian wall lizards (Podarcis sicula campestris) were successfully introduced into two locations in the USA, both at latitudes similar to their probable sources in Italy. Behavioral differences between native and introduced populations are likely due to proximate forces. From 1999-2000, we documented the seasonal and diel behaviour of wall lizards in New York. We observed a bimodal activity pattern during the summer and a unimodal activity pattern in spring and fall, which has been reported for native populations in Italy. Unlike Italian populations, New York lizards were completely inactive during winter months, which is probably due to the much lower minimum winter temperatures in New York.
Burneleau, G. (1983) -
Burneleau, G. & Duguy, R. (1981) -
Burraco, P. & Comas, M. & Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.-J. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2019) -
The timing of organisms’ senescence is developmentally programmed but also shaped by the interaction between environmental inputs and life-history traits. In ectotherms, ageing dynamics are still poorly understood despite their particularities concerning thermoregulation, regeneration capacity, or growth trajectory. Here, we investigate the role of life-history traits such as age, sex, body size, body condition, and tail autotomy (i.e self-amputation) in shaping telomere length of six populations of the Algerian sand lizard (Psammodromus algirus) distributed across an elevational gradient from 300 to 2500 meters above the sea level. Additionally, we show in a review table the available information on reptiles’ telomere length. We found that telomeres elongated with lizards’ age. We also observed that body size and age class showed a positive relationship, suggesting that cell replication did not shorten lizards’ telomeres by itself. Elevation affected telomere length in a non-linear way, a pattern that mirrored the variation in age structure across elevation. Telomere length was unaffected by tail autotomy, and was sex-independent, but positively correlated with body condition. Our results show that telomeres elongate throughout the first four years of lizards’ lifetime, a process that stress the role of telomerase in maintaining ectothermic telomeres, and, likely, in extending lifespan in organisms with indeterminate growth. Regarding the non-linear impact that elevation had on telomere length of lizards, our results suggest that habitat (mainly temperature) and organisms’ condition might play a key role in regulation ageing rate. Our findings emphasize the relevance of understanding species’ life histories (e.g. age and body condition) and habitat characteristics for fully disentangling the causes and consequences of lifespan trajector
Burrage, B.R. (1978) -
A collection of reptiles and new locality records are reported from the littoral Southern Namib Desert, Northwestern Cape Province, Republic of South Africa. The new localities, by species, are: Chersina angulata, Swartlintjies River; Chondrodactylus angulifer, Swartlintjies River and Kleinsee; Agama atra, Papendorp, Swartlintjies River, and Kleinsee; Chamaeleo pumilus, MacDougall`s Bay; Mabuya occidentalis, Hondeklipbaal, Swartlintjies River, and Kleinsee; Acontias lineatus, Hondeklipbaal; Nucras tessellata, Kleinsee, and MacDougall`s Bay; Eremias capensis, Papendorp, Hondeklipbaal, and Kleinsee; Meroles knoxii, Elandsbaal; Meroles ctenodactyla, Papendorp, and Kleinsee; Psammophylax rhombeatus, Elandsbaal; Psammophis crucifer, Elandsbaal; and Naja nivea, Kreefbaal, and Kleinsee, 1978.
Burrell, M.A. & Villaro, A.C. & Rindi, G. & Solcia, E. & Polak, J.M. & Sesma, P. (1991) -
Numerous endocrine cells can be observed in the gut of the lizard Podarcis hispanica after application of the Grimelius silver nitrate technique. The argyrophilic endocrine cells are usually tall and thin in the small intestine but short, basal, and round in the large intestine. Eleven types of immunoreactive endocrine cells have been identified by immunocytochemical methods. Numerous serotonin-, caerulein/gastrin/cholecystokinin octapeptide-and peptide tyrosine-tyrosine-immunoreactive cells; a moderate number of pancreatic polypeptide-, neurotensin-, somatostatin-, glucagon-like peptide-1-and glucagon-immunoreactive cells, and few cholecystokinin N-terminal-and bombesin-immunoreactive cells were found in the epithelium of the small intestine. Coexistence of glucagon with GLP-1 or PP/PYY has been observed in some cells. In the large intestine a small number of serotonin-, peptide tyrosine-tyrosine-, pancreatic polypeptide-, neurotensin-, somatostatin-and glucagon-like peptide-1-immunoreactive cells were detected. Vasoactive intestinal peptide immunoreactivity was found in nerve fibers of the muscular layer. Substance P-immunoreactive nerve fibers were detected in lamina propria, submucosa and muscular layer. Chromogranin A-immunoreactive cells were observed throughout the intestine, although in lower numbers than argyrophilic cells.
Burriel-Carranza, B. & Tarroso, P. & Els, J. & Gardner, A. & Soorae, P. & Mohammed, A.A. & Tubati, S.R.K. & Eltayeb, M.M. & Nazeer Shah, J. & Tejero-Cicuendez, H. & Simo-Riudalbas, M. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Fernandez-Guiberteau, D. & Rmid, J. & Carranza, S. (2019) -
In the present study we use an unprecedented database of 5,535 distributional records to infer the diversity, ecological preferences and spatial distribution of the 60 species of terrestrial reptiles of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and use the 57 native species to test the effectiveness of the protected areas’ network in conserving this unique vertebrate fauna. We infer a time-calibrated phylogeny with 146 species of squamates and 15 genes including all UAE terrestrial reptile species to determine the phylogenetic diversity (PD) and evolutionary distinctiveness (ED) of the native species and to compare it with the distribution of the hotspots of native species richness. The results of this study indicate that the sampling effort is remarkable, covering 75% of the country’s territory representing nearly the entire climatic space of the UAE defined by the mean annual temperature and the total annual precipitation, as well as the multivariate climatic space defined by a principal component analysis (PCA). Species richness is highest in the northeast of the country, in a transitional area from sandy desert to the mountainous terrain of the Hajar Mountains. The highest PD of a single square cell of 10 arc-minutes grid is of 2,430 million years (my) of accumulated evolutionary history and the strong correlation between PD and species richness suggests that the raw number of species is a good surrogate to quantify the evolutionary history (i.e., PD). The species with the highest values of ED are those in families represented by only one species in the UAE. Finally, the assessment of the UAE protected areas shows that, despite their relevance in protecting the terrestrial reptiles, they do not offer adequate protection for some threatened species. Therefore, a reassessment of some of the protected areas or the creation of species specific conservation action plans are recommended in order to ensure the preservation of the unique diversity of UAE terrestrial reptiles.
Burriel-Carranza, B. & Tejero-Cicuéndez, H. & Carné, A. & Mochales-Riano, G. & Talavera, A. & Al Saadi, S. & Smid, J. & Tamar, K. & Tarroso, P. & Carranza, S. (2024) -
Advances in genomics have greatly enhanced our understanding of mountain biodiversity, providing new insights into the complex and dynamic mechanisms that drive the formation of mountain biotas. These span from broad biogeographic patterns to population dynamics and adaptations to these environments. However, significant challenges remain in integrating large-scale and fine-scale findings to develop a comprehensive understanding of mountain biodiversity. One significant challenge is the lack of genomic data, especially in historically understudied arid regions where reptiles are a particularly diverse vertebrate group. In the present study, we assembled a de novo genome-wide SNP dataset for the complete endemic reptile fauna of a mountain range (19 described species with more than 600 specimens sequenced), and integrated state-of-the-art biogeographic analyses at the population, species, and community level. Thus, we provide a holistic integration of how a whole endemic reptile community has originated, diversified and dispersed through a mountain system. Our results show that reptiles independently colonized the Hajar Mountains of southeastern Arabia 11 times. After colonization, species delimitation methods suggest high levels of within-mountain diversification, supporting up to 49 deep lineages. This diversity is strongly structured following local topography, with the highest peaks acting as a broad barrier to gene flow among the entire community. Interestingly, orogenic events do not seem key drivers of the biogeographic history of reptiles in this system. Instead, past climatic events seem to have had a major role in this community assemblage. We observe an increase of vicariant events from Late Pliocene onwards, coinciding with an unstable climatic period of rapid shifts between hyper-arid and semiarid conditions that led to the ongoing desertification of Arabia. We conclude that paleoclimate, and particularly extreme aridification, acted as a main driver of diversification in arid mountain systems which is tangled with the generation of highly adapted endemicity. Overall, our study does not only provide a valuable contribution to understanding the evolution of mountain biodiversity, but also offers a flexible and scalable approach that can be reproduced into any taxonomic group and at any discrete environment.
Bursey, C.R. & Goldberg, S.R. (2011) -
A new species of Spauligodon, Spauligodon latasticola n. sp., from the intestines of Latastia longicaudata (Lacertidae) from Kenya is described and illustrated. Spauligodon latasticola represents the 47th species assigned to the genus and the 8th species from the Ethiopian region. The new species differs from all but 2 other species assigned to Spauligodon by the presence of a conically tapering tail in the female. The new species is separated from the 2 similar species, Spauligodon garciaprietoi and Spauligodon goldbergi, by the position of the vulva, which is anterior to the esophageal bulb in the new species, at the level of the esophageal bulb in S. goldbergi, and posterior to the esophageal bulb in S. garciaprietoi.
Bursey, C.R. & Goldberg, S.R. & Telford jr., S.R. (2005) -
Helminths from Eumeces latiscutatus (n = 17) and Takydromus tachydromoides (n = 34) from Japan are reported. Two species of Nematoda, Kurilonema markovi and Meteterakis japonica, and 1 taxon of Acanthocephala, cystacanths of Centrorhynchus sp., were found in E. latiscutatus; 1 species of Digenea, Plagiorchis taiwanensis, and 2 species of Nematoda, K. markovi and Oswaldocruzia filiformis, were found in T. tachydromoides. Oswaldocruzia yezoensis is proposed as a synonym of Oswaldocruzia filiformis. Takydromus tachydromoides represents a new host record for P. taiwanensis and Japan is a new locality record.
Burunat-Pérez, G. & Suárez-Rancel, M. & Molina-Borja, M. (2018) -
Animals raised in captivity during several generations may not express appropriate antipredator behaviour when reintroduced into the wild. Here we present the results of experiments to enhance behavioural responses to predators in adult males of the endangered lizard Gallotia simonyi (El Hierro, Canary Islands). Individuals were subjected to a training procedure (control, pre-training, training and post-training phases) using stuffed specimens of a kestrel and a cat as predators. We filmed all trials and compared relative durations of the more common behaviour patterns shown by lizards, both among experimental phases and before and after presentation of the stuffed predator. Locomotion and Basking were significantly reduced in the training and post-training trials and also after stimulus presentation, suggesting that the training protocol induced lizard avoidance over both predator models. To our knowledge, this is the first time lizards have been trained to show antipredator avoidance and our results provide the basis for a new management strategy that could be useful for reintroduction of captive-bred individuals of endangered species.
Bury, S. & Kolanek, A. (2020) -
Busack, S.D. (1959) -
Busack, S.D. (1973) -
Busack, S.D. (1975) -
Busack, S.D. (1976) -
Convergent ecology of lizards in simi-ttr, geographically isolated, desert biotopes is well known (Pianka, 1973) but Mediterranean forms have not been studied in detail. Valverde (1967) commented on the seasonal abundance of Acanthodactylus erythrurus, but there has been no detailed study of activity. Acantha-dactylus occupies a niche similar to Callisaurus or Uma in the deserts of the southwestern United States and this study examined the daily and seasonal activity of fringe-toed lizards in southern Spain. The study area was at La Algaida, on the Fig. I. Habitat of Acanthodactylus erythrurus at La Algaida (June). Pinus pinea L. (Pinaceae) stands surrounded by Juniperus phoenicea L. (Cubresaceae) provide shade. Halimium halimiifolium (L.) Willk (Cistaceae) and Corema album (L.) D. Don (Ernpetraceae) are used for foraging and escape from predators. east bank of the Guadalquivir River 25.5 km (air) NW of Jerez de la Frontera, Cadiz Pro-vince, Spain, at an elevation of less than 100 m. Aridity and agriculture typify this region; present vegetation is an open evergreen forma-tion (Fig. I). Since La Algaida occupies a similar coastal position and is only 25 km from Rota, the fol-lowing data from the U. S. Naval Weather Station at Rota reflect the climate at La Algaida.
Busack, S.D. (1978) -
Busack, S.D. (1986) -
Between 5.5 and 7.0 m.y. B.P. the formation of the Strait of Gibraltar allowed water from the Atlantic Ocean to fill the basin now known as the Mediterranean Sea. This event divided the amphibian and reptile fauna then inhabiting southern Spain and northern Morocco into allopatric and, presumably, conspecific faunas. Because the strait has continued from its formation to the present as a geographic barrier to the exchange of terrestrial vertebrates between Africa and Europe, this region and its native herpetofauna provide a natural laboratory in which various tenets of current biogeographic theory may be evaluated. Electrophoretically obtained allozymic data allowed an empirical biogeographic analysis of the trans-Gibraltar herpetofauna. Estimates of accumulated genetic distance (Nei`s D) varied from 0.0 to 0.6 between Spanish and Moroccan populations of 17 conspecific taxa. Further examination of these genetic data demonstrated that the rate of migration between these two continental populations was greater than or less than the estimated rate of mutation. European and African populations of several taxa traditionally presumed to be homogeneous were shown to be genically heterogeneous. Analysis of the distribution of alleles within and between continental populations suggests that the ability to maintain genetic continuity across the marine barrier varies from species to species. No demonstrable correlation was found between degree of habitat specificity and frequency of occurrence of individuals, and the genic differentiation demonstrated by Spanish populations of each taxon.
Busack, S.D. (1987) -
Morphological and biochemical divergence between Spanish and Moroccan populations of Lacerta lepida demonstrate that these populations are not conspecific; Iberian populations are referred to Lacerta lepida, Moroccan populations to L. pater. An evolutionary scenario, consistent with the biochemical and morphological data, is inferred from the physiographic history of the region.
Reported only from three general areas at elevations between 2500-3700 m within the High Atlas Mountains of Marrakech Prefecture, Morocco, Lacerta andreanszkyi appears little studied (Saint Girons, 1953; Pasteur and Bons, 1960; Bons, 1967; Klemmer, 1969). Since Werner`s (1929) description of this apparently restricted apecies, nothing has been published regarding its biology. The following limited data concerning population density, biomass, sex ratio, feeding ecology, reproduction, frequency of injury, and thermal environment and response of this elusive species are presented below to partially fill this void.
Busack, S.D. & Bursey, C.R. (2016) -
Psammodromus algirus y Psammodromus edwardsianus (Reptilia: Lacertidae) son hospedadores en España de nematodos pertenecientes al género Parapharyngodon (Nematoda: Oxyuridomorpha, Pharyngodonidae). Una atenta observación de los rangos de distribución, tanto de parásitos como de hospedadores, sugiere que los primeros pudieron haber llegado accidentalmente a España desde el Nuevo Mundo en barcos de la “Carrera de Indias”.
Busack, S.D. & Bursey, C.R. & Durden, L.A. (2019) -
Psammodromus algirus from Madrid, Ávila, and Cádiz provinces, Spain, and P. occidentalis from Cádiz province were examined for the presence of external and internal parasites. Among those parasites represented were: Ixodes inopinatus (Arthropoda, Arachnida, Acari, Ixodidae); Haemaphysalis punctata (Arthropoda, Arachnida, Acari, Ixodidae); Skrjabinelazia cf. taurica (Nematoda, Secernentea, Ascaridida, Seuratidae); Spauligodon carbonelli (Nematoda: Secernentea, Oxyurida, Pharyngodonidae); Parapharyngodon psammodromi (Nematoda, Secernentea, Oxyurida, Pharyngodonidae); Abbreviata abbreviata (Nematoda, Secernentea, Physalopteroidea, Physalopteridae); Mesocestoides sp. (Platyhelminthes, Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea, Mesocestoididae); and Oochoristica cf. tuberculata (Platyhelminthes, Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea, Davaineidae). Details regarding localities from which host species were collected, number of parasites and sites of attachment, and estimates of prevalence and intensities of infection are presented. Nematode diversity, along with parasite prevalence, parasitaemia, and relationship to elevation are also discussed. A table of Psammodromus parasites in Spain is also included.
Busack, S.D. & Jaksic, F.M. (1982) -
Autoecological aspects of Acanthodactylus erythrurus were examined at La Algaida, Cádiz Province, Spain. The male population is composed of 60 % adult and 40 % subadult individuals; male hatchlings increase in size at a rate of 0.06 mm/day from hatching (≤ 31 mm snout-vent length) to sexual maturity (~ 61 mm); 50 % do not survive beyond 1.5 years, but those which reach adult size may live 1.9 years. Females grow from hatching (~ 28 mm) to sexual maturity (≥ 57 mm) at a rate of 0.05 mm/day; less than half survive 1.4 years and the life span of some individuals is 2.1 years. Adult males outnumber adult females 1.4:1, but subadult ratios are 1:1. Adults and subadults associate with different plant species during their activity period, but each age class tends to avoid open sand patches. These 8.4-13 g lizards feed on a wide variety of insects and appreciable quantities of plant material. 49 % of all males and 82 % of all females activiely consume Halimium helimifolium. We sespect this lizard species is wide ranging and non-territorial; only one agonistic encounter was recorded and it was interspecific (with Psammodromus algirus). The frequency of escape from predation is estimated at 26.8 %, based on tail-loss figures, and the incidence of cestode parasitism (Oochoristica cf. tuberculata) is 2.1 %. The population studied was highly resilient to 16 months of intense human predation.
Busack, S.D. & Klosterman, L.L. (1987) -
Busack, S.D. & Lawson, R. (2006) -
Pairwise sequence polymorphism in mitochondrial DNA and levels of differentiation among presumptive gene loci (expressed as Nei`s D^) tend to be greater between populations separated by the Strait of Gibraltar than between populations inhabiting either Morocco or Spain. Ancestral Psammodromus algirus inhabiting Iberia and North Africa while the Strait of Gibraltar was being formed and stabilized (Miocene-Pliocene) evolved in association with physiogeographic change brought about by this barrier to gene exchange. Considered in units of genetic change per kilometer, mtDNA differentiation is greater in Morocco than in Spain, and allozyme differentiation is slightly greater than, or equal to, that in Spain, suggesting that P. algirus has a longer and more complex history in Morocco than in Spain.
Busack, S.D. & Lawson, R. (2008) -
Patterns of differentiation in morphology, mitochondrial DNA and allozymes in amphibians and reptiles inhabiting northern and southern shores of the Strait of Gibraltar are not concordant, suggesting that each taxon was affected differently by events preceding or following the formation of the Strait of Gibraltar. Mitochondrial DNA and allozyme differentiation between Discoglossus jeanneae and Discoglossus scovazzi (Anura, Discoglossidae), Rana perezi and Rana saharica (Anura, Ranidae), and Blanus cinereus and Blanus tingitanus (Squamata, Amphisbaenia, Amphisbaenidae) is substantial, whereas morphological differentiation is moderate in Rana and Blanus, but is substantial in Discoglossus. Differentiation in mitochondrial DNA and morphology between Timon (Lacerta) lepidus and Timon (Lacerta) tangitanus (Squamata, Lacertoidea, Lacertidae) is considerable, but allozyme differentiation is low. In members of type-I and -II Podarcis vaucheri (Squamata, Lacertoidea, Lacertidae), morphology and mitochondrial DNA are moderately differentiated, but allozyme differentiation is low. Spanish and Moroccan populations of Hyla meridionalis (Anura, Hylidae), Mauremys leprosa (Testudines, Geoemydidae), and Macroprotodon brevis (Squamata, Serpentes, Colubridae) demonstrate little allozyme and mitochondrial DNA differentiation, but whereas morphological differentiation between Mauremys and Macroprotodon populations is moderate, Hyla demonstrate substantial morphological differentiation between continental populations. These data suggest that sex-limited mitochondrial markers are reflective of ancient phylogenetic history, whereas biparentally inherited allozyme markers and morphological characteristics reflect more recent population structure and movement.
Busack, S.D. & Lawson, R. & Arjo, W. (2005) -
Mitochondrial DNA analysis indicates that Podarcis vaucheri is a species complex with one clade inhabiting both north and south shores of the Strait of Gibraltar and one clade restricted to North Africa. While each clade exhibits differing morphology, allozyme analysis suggests varying degrees of reproductive contact among populations within clades. Ancestral P. vaucheri appears to have been restricted to insular areas of the Betic-Rif Massif and mainland Africa during Miocene, with major lineage differentiation occurring during Pliocene. Our analysis further confirms that Podarcis atrata warrants species status and suggests that it may be more widely distributed than previously reported.
Busack, S.D. & Maxson, L.R. (1987) -
Relationships among representatives of five genera of lacertid lizards from Iberia, Morocco, and South Africa were studied using quantitative micro-complement fixation analysis of serum albumin evolution. Using the albumin molecular clock to establish divergence times we suggest (1) South African Ichnotropis and North African Psammodromus diverged from the lineage representing Lacerta lepida-L. monticola during the Oligocene, (2) South African Pedioplanis and Heliobolus diverged from this lineage during the late Miocene, and (3) ancestral representatives of L. andreanszkyi, L. perspicillata and Podarcis hispanica diverged from lineages leading to L. monticola and L. lepida during the mid-Miocene. Radiation within the Palearctic Lacertidae has clearly been extensive, yet fewer than twenty percent of the species in this radiation have been examined biochemically. Until additional data can be gathered, the current classification of the Palearctic Lacertidae cannot be much improved and we recommend adherence to the taxonomy proposed by Arnold (1973).
Busack, S.D. & Salvador, A. & Bauer, A.M. & Kaiser, H. (2016) -
A doctoral thesis presented in the late 1990s by óscar J. Arribas has been frequently cited as the authority for the nomenclatural status of two generic names in the lizard family Lacertidae, Darevskia and Iberolacerta. These names were again introduced, along with the addition of the subgeneric name Pyrenesaura, in 1999 via publication in an international, peer-reviewed journal. We discuss nomenclatural aspects of how these taxon names were presented, detail inconsistencies in the use of publication dates associated with these names, and resolve nomenclatural problems by demonstrating that the date of their first publication, in compliance with the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, was 1999. This renders the name Darevskia Arribas, 1999 a junior invalid synonym of Caucasilacerta Harris, Arnold & Thomas, 1998, which, contrary to previous assessment, is not a nomen nudum, and must replace Darevskia as the valid name for this genus.
Busack, S.D. & Salvador, A. & Lawson, R. (2006) -
The lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus has been considered a uniform species across its distribution area in North Africa and southwestern Europe. Coloration data and discriminant function analysis of morphological data corroborate mitochondrial DNA and allozyme data to indicate northern and southern Iberian populations represent unknown species that are described here. Additional work is needed to fully understand bio-geography and variation in this species complex.
Busack, S.D. & Visnaw, J.A. (1989) -
Cádiz Province, Spain, is the southernmost extent of the range of L. lepida. Within this area, L. lepida demonstrates no distinct preference for any habitat and inhabits man-made and natural shelters with equal frequency. L. lepida is diurnal and active at the surface at ambient temperatures between 15.6°C and 42°C from February through November. Males are 4% to 8% heavier than females of equivalent body length. The rate of parasitism from nematodes is low (6%). The Cádiz Province population has the most diverse diet of any population studied to date. The taxonomic composition of the diet of males and females is identical, and consists mostly of invertebrate prey. Mean prey size and prey diversity are not correlated with lizard body size. Lacerta lepida is cannibalistic. Spermatogenesis and follicular development occur from April through July, egg laying occurs between early June and early July, and clutch size may vary from 4 to 18. Lacerta lepida reproduces only once annually.
Busch, L. & Schepp, U. (2024) -
The discovery of a common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in the Bergisches Land (North Rhine-Westfalia) outside the species’ known distribution range is reported. The trade in flowers, perennials, and landscaping material is suspected as a possible cause of the dispersal, as there is a large garden center in the vicinity.
Buschendorf, J. (1999) -
Buschinger, A. & Verbeek, B. (1970) -
Territorial behaviour of the viviparous lizard, La- certa vivipara Jacquin, was investigated in the field. Each animal was tagged by implantation of a ra- dioactive grain of o.8 mm diameter and 2.5 mm length containing 0.25 mC 182Ta encased in pla- tinum. The y-emission of 0,07-1,28 MeV enabled location of the lizards by a GM-detector at a distance of up to 2.5 m. In lizards, which had been labelled for 3 months with 0,49 .mC 182Ta we could not find any damage affecting their behaviour. Lacerta vivipara does not occupy a sharply defined territory. Males move more on warm days covering an area of more than 60 m in diameter, but in the evening they return to defined sleeping sites.
Bußmann, M. (1990) -
Bußmann, M. & Schlüpmann, M. (2006) -
Bußmann, M. & Schlüpmann, M. (2007) -
Bußmann, M. & Schlüpmann, M. (2011) -
Bustard, R. (1959) -
Bütikofer, L. & Sacchi, R. & Pupin, F. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Razzetti, E. & Pella, F. & Fasola, M. (2013) -
By means of both classical and geometric morphometric protocols, the authors analyzed sexual dimorphism and allometry of the head of the lacertid Mesalina balfouri (BLANFORD, 1881), endemic to the Archipelago of Socotra. As a result, males presented an isometrically bigger hean in comparison to females, whereas sexual dimorphism was non-existent in body size and head shape. In addition, a clear ontogenetic change of the head shape emerged. Possible explanations of the observed transformations are discussed.
Butler, B.O. & Ceríaco, L.M.P. & Marquez, M.P. & Bandeira, S. & Júlio, T. & Heinicke, M.P. & Bauer, A.M. (2019) -
Butler, R.D. & Gabri, M.S. (1984) -
The spermatozoon nucleus of Podarcis (=Lacerta) taurica is surmounted by an acrosome complex with an anterior cap incorporating a lateral zone crescentic in section, a granular middle zone with a striated subacrosome axis, and a crystalline posterior cap surrounding a nuclear prolongation. During development the spermatid, nucleus forms an anterior depression occupied by the developing acrosome vesicle. An acrosome granule forms at the posterior pole of the vesicle, subtended by a subacrosome granule in a subacrosomal fibrous layer. The nucleus and acrosome elongate, the latter becoming embedded in a Sertoli cell process. This is accompanied by a change of the interlinked manchette microtubules from a circumferential to longitudinal orientation. Acrosome elongation involves formation of the nuclear prolongation with development of the acrosome granule, subacrosome granule and subacrosomal fibrous layer into anterior cap, middle zone, and posterior cap, respectively. The chromatin condenses into longitudinally orientated fibres and finally into a homogeneous mass.
Buttle, D. (1986) -
Buttle, D. (1987) -
Buttle, D. (1988) -
Buttle, D. (1989) -
Buttle, D. (1990) -
Buttle, D. (1993) -
Buttle, D. (1995) -
Buttle, D. (1997) -
Butz, P. & Kuenzer, P. (1956) -
Buursink, E. (2008) -
C.B.C.,S.L. (2003) -
Caballero, J.M. & Balmori-de la Puente, A. & Calderón, T. & Calle, I. de la & Balmori, A. (2021) -
Cabana, M. & Vázquez, R. & Galán, P. (2016) -
Cabela, A. & Grillitsch, H. & Happ, H. & Happ, F. & Koller, R. (1992) -
Cabela, A. & Grillitsch, H. & Tiedemann, F. (1997) -
Cabela, A. & Grillitsch, H. & Tiedemann, F. (2002) -
Cabela, A. & Grillitsch, H. & Tiedemann, F. (2004) -
Cabela, A. & Grillitsch, H. & Tiedemann, F. (2007) -
Im Untersuchungsgebiet in den Lienzer Dolomiten (Kärnten, Österreich) kommen Iberolacerta horvathi (MÉHELY, 1904) und Podarcis muralis (LAURENTI, 1768) zwischen 714 und 1285 m ü. M. sympatrisch, zwischen 919 und 1057 m syntop vor. Rund 10 % der Eidechsenstandorte sind von beiden Arten etwa 50 % bzw. 40 % nur von P. muralis bzw. I. horvathi besetzt. Die beobachteten Individuendichten liegen bei I. horvathi mehrfach höher als bei P. muralis. Die felsig-steinigen Eidechsenhabitate – vom glatten, steilen Fels bis zur porösen, flachen Schutthalde – wurden nach ihrer Kompaktheit, Höhe, Neigung, Spaltenbildung und Oberflächenstruktur vier Typen zugeordnet, zu deren Besiedlung unterschiedliche Kletterfähigkeiten erforderlich sind. Auf dem glatten steilen Felsformationen kam nur I. horvathi vor, auf Schuttflächen nahezu ausschließlich P. muralis, Übergangsformen konnten beide Arten beherbergen.
Cabela, A. & Tiedemann, F. (1985) -
Cabido, C. (2009) -
Cabido, C. & Galán, P. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2009) -
Sexual selection favors more conspicuous male displays, whereas natural selection (via predator pressure) favors less conspicuous displays. However, this trade-off might be altered if males with more conspicuous displays could compensate behaviorally for their increased conspicuousness by acting more cautiously toward predators. The aim of this study was to explore in 2 species of Iberian rock lizards whether or not conspicuous coloration was associated with antipredatory behavior and whether conspicuousness-dependent regulation of antipredatory behavior existed. Our results suggested that male lizards may compensate for the negative effects of conspicuous sexual coloration on predation risk by modulating their antipredatory behavior (time inside refuges, false alarms, etc). We found that male Iberolacerta monticola, but not male Iberolacerta cyreni, compensated for the negative effects of blue lateral ocelli, which increased visual conspicuousness. However, male lizards did not compensate for relatively unexposed ventral spots. We also found that male I. monticola in better condition and with more blue lateral ocelli were shier, whereas male I. cyreni in better condition and with more ventral spots were bolder. These 2 lizard species live in habitats that differ in refuge availability and in the number of potential predators, which may promote differences in the trade-off between predation risk and social behavior and may explain the observed interspecific differences in antipredatory behavior. This suggests that regulation of antipredatory behavior may also function as a condition-dependent cost promoting costly (honest) sexual signaling in some species.
Cabido, C. & Garcia-Azurmendi, X. & Uotila, E. & Garin-Barrio, I. (2010) -
Cabido, C. & Gonzalo, A. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2008) -
Cabido, C. & Iglesias-Carrasco, M. (2014) -
Cabido, C. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2006) -
Cabo, H. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carretero, M.A. (2021) -
Cabot, D.B. (1965) -
Cabral, M.J. & Almeida, J. & Almeida, P.R. & Dellinger. T. & Almeida, N. de & Oliveira, M.E. & Palmeirim, J.M. & Queiroz, A.I. & Pogado, L. & Santos-Reis, M. (2005) -
Caecero Herrador, F. & Carretero, M.A. & Sillero, N. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Hernández-Sastre, P.L. & Olmedo, M.I. & Rato, C. & Rubio, J.L. (2010) -
Caeira-Dias, G. (2021) -
Caeiro-Dias, G. & Brelsford, A. & Crochet, P.A. & Ribeiro, M. & Pinho, C. (2018) -
Caeiro-Dias, G. & Brelsford, A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Crochet, A. & Pinho, C. (2018) -
The process of speciation is often equated to the acquisition of reproductive isolation. This is a process typically envisioned as being correlated to divergence time: as time progresses the more likely it will be for diverging taxa to experience restrictions to gene exchange. This correlation has been tested and verified in a wide range of taxa; however, other aspects of differentiation, such as ecological divergence, have also been shown to correlate with reproductive isolation independently of divergence time or genomic differentiation. Characterizing reproductive isolation in multiple pairs of closely related taxa that are in different stages of the divergence process is a way of addressing these questions and disentangling the factors are more importante as engines of reproductive isolation. Wall lizards of genus Podarcis, particularly those belonging to the Iberian and North African group, are an appropriate model for this type of evaluations since they comprise various differentiated species with that establish a variety of natural contact zones. In this study we sampled and characterized patterns of hybridization in 9 contact zones between different species pairs using RADseq data. We found a generally low proportion of hybrids and contact zones were strongly bimodal in all cases, but with measurable differences in levels of gene flow among contact zones. Using data available from previous studies on this complex and in a multivariate statistical framework, we compared the level of hybridisation in each contact zone with several predictor variables: nuclear and mitochondrial genetic divergence, distribution overlap, and morphological, ecological and physiological distances between species. Our results show that, despite the general trend in other taxa, the level of hybridization in Podarcis contact zones does not seem to be correlated to divergence time. We discuss how other mechanisms may have influenced this pattern.
Caeiro-Dias, G. & Brelsford, A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Meneses-Riobeiro, M. & Crochet, P.-A. & Pinho, C. (2020) -
Recent empirical studies have demonstrated that speciation with gene flow is more common than previously thought. From a conservation perspective, the potential negative effects of hybridization raise concerns on the genetic integrity of endangered species. However, introgressive hybridization has also been growingly recognized as a source of diversity and new advantageous alleles. Carbonell’s wall lizard (Podarcis carbonelli) is an endangered species whose distribution overlaps with four other congeneric species. Our goal here was to determine whether P. carbonelli is completely reproductively isolated from its congeners and to evaluate the relevance of hybridization and interspecific gene flow for developing a conservation plan. We used restriction site associated DNA (RAD) sequencing to discover SNPs in samples from four contact zones between P. carbonelli and four other species. Principal component analysis, multilocus genotype assignment and interspecific heterozygosity suggest incomplete reproductive isolation and ongoing gene flow between species. However, hybridization dynamics vary across all pairs, suggesting complex interactions between multiple intrinsic and extrinsic barriers. Despite seemingly ubiquitous interspecific gene flow, we found evidence of strong reproductive isolation across most contact zones. Instead, indirect effects of hybridization like waste of reproductive effort in small isolated populations may be more problematic. Our results highlight the need to further evaluate the consequences of introgression for P. carbonelli, both on a geographic and genomic level and included in a comprehensive and urgently needed conservation plan. Besides, those findings will add important insights on the potential effects of hybridization and introgression for endangered species.
Caeiro-Dias, G. & Luis, C. & Pinho, C. & Crochet, P.-A. & Sillero, N. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2018) -
Niche divergence among closely related lineages can be informative on the ecological and evolutionary processes involved in differentiation, particularly in the case of cryptic species complexes. Here we compared phylogenetic relationships and niche similarity between pairs of lineages included in the Podarcis hispanicus complex to examine patterns of niche divergence and its role in the organization of current diversity patterns, as allopatric, parapatric, and sympatric lineages occur in the Western Mediterranean Basin. First, we used ecological niche models to characterize the realized climatic niche of each Podarcis hispanicus complex lineage based on topographic and climatic variables, to identify important variables, and to test for niche conservatism or divergence between pairs of lineages. Variables related to precipitation generally exhibited the highest contribution to niche models, highlighting the importance of rainfall levels in shaping distributions of Podarcis wall lizards. We found that most forms have significant differences in realized climatic niches that do not follow the pattern of mitochondrial divergence. These results lend support to the hypothesis that genetic divergence across Podarcis hispanicus complex most likely occurred in allopatric conditions, mostly with significant niche divergence. Competition after secondary contact is also suggested by the common occurrence of niche overlap between lineages that exhibit strictly parapatric distribution. The almost continuous distribution of Podarcis lizards in the study area appears to be a result of a combination of complementary suitable niches and competition, which seem two important mechanisms limiting geographic distributions and restricting the existence of extensive contact zones.
Caeiro-Dias, G. & Rocha, S. & Couto, A. & Pereira, C. & Brelsford, A. & Crochet, P.-A. & Pinho, C. (2021) -
Unravelling when divergent lineages constitute distinct species can be challenging, particularly in complex scenarios combining cryptic diversity and phylogenetic discordances between different types of molecular markers. Combining a phylogenetic approach with the study of contact zones can help to overcome such difficulties. The Podarcis hispanicus species complex has proven to be prosperous in independent evolutionary units, sometimes associated with cryptic diversity. Previous studies have revealed that one of the species of this complex, P. guadarramae, comprises two deeply divergent yet morphologically indistinguishable evolutionary units, currently regarded as subspecies (P. g. guadarramae and P. g. lusitanicus). In this study we used molecular data to address the systematics of the two lineages of Podarcis guadarramae and the closely related P. bocagei. Firstly, we reconstructed the species tree of these three and two additional taxa based on 30 nuclear loci using the multispecies coalescent with and without gene flow. Secondly, we used SNPs obtained from RADseq data to analyze the population structure across the distribution limits P. g. lusitanicus and P. g. guadarramae, and for comparison, a contact zone between P. bocagei and P. g. lusitanicus. Nuclear phylogenetic relationships between these three taxa are clearly difficult to determine due to the influence of gene flow, but our results give little support to the monophyly of P. guadarramae, potentially due to a nearly simultaneous divergence between them. Genetic structure and geographic cline analysis revealed that the two lineages of P. guadarramae replace each other abruptly across the sampled region and that gene flow is geographically restricted, implying the existence of strong reproductive isolation. Podarcis bocagei and P. g. lusitanicus show a similar degree of genetic differentiation and reproductive isolation, with very low levels of admixture in syntopy. These results support that all three forms are equally differentiated and reproductively isolated. In consequence, we conclude that the two former subspecies of Podarcis guadarramae constitute valid, yet cryptic species, that should be referred to as P. lusitanicus and P. guadarramae.
Caetano, A. & Cejudo, D. & Garcia-Marquez, M. & Orrit, N. & Romero, M. (1997) -
Caetano, A. & Garcia-Márquez,M. & Mateo, J.A. & López-Jurado, L.F. (1999) -
Since 1986, the insular, endangered Hierro Giant Lizard (Gallotia simonyi machadoi: Lacertidae) has been subjected to captive breeding for conservation purposes at El Hierro (Canary Islands). Due to the lack of a reintroduction plan, presently the captive stock probably outnumbers the wild population of the species, which only occurs at a steep cliff within the island. For the first time, two adult males, fitted with radiocollars, were freed in the wild. The lizards were released at La Dehesa, a pre-selected sit devoid of current populations of the species, but belonging to its historic range as evidenced by plenty of subfossil remains. The study was aimed to test whether the captive reared lizards are good subjects for a reintroduction program, and whether the selected area still suits well their ecological requirements. For months, both lizards stayed close to the release plot, dug burrows and found food. Body weight losses during the dry season were overcome in the following humid seasons, as food availabity improved. Activity cycles and feeding were favoured by better thermal conditions than those experienced by the wild and captive populations. Adter 140 days, one of the lizards was killed by a feral cat, as has been shown to happen in the wild population. Our results shows that the extant wild population of G. simonyi bears sub-optimal ecological conditions. A reintroduction of captive reared lizards in well preserved habitats of the islands in both recommendable and feasible, provided that a feral cat control program is undertaken.
Caetano, M.H. & Castanet, J., & Crespo, E.G. (1986) -
Skeletochronology used for age identification of a Portuguese population of Podarcis hispanica (Steindachner, 1870) (Sauria, Lacertidae). — The age of 92 specimens of Podarcis hispanica, from Cascais (Portugal) are determined by counting the skeletal growth rings in the diaphysis of ihe femur. In the sample studied, four age groups were observed. The results obtained agree with those reported for other lizards such as Podarcis muralis and Lacerta vivipara.
Cafuta, V. (2003) -
Cafuta, V. (2005) -
Cafuta, V. (2010) -
Cafuta, V. & Trilar, T. (2008) -
In seasons 2003 and 2004 we examined 312 individuals of lacertid lizards for ectoparasites in central and southwestern Slovenia. Collected were 538 Ixodes ricinus ticks (Acarina, Ixodidae) (71.7% larvae and 28.3% nimfae) on 103 lizards (33.0%). The region of forelimbs (armpit) was the most preferred attachment site of ticks. Most infested were lizards living near woods, least infested those living in areas with no vegetation coverage. Males were more infested than females, but only in the spring time. Lizards living in the submediterranean area were significantly less infested than lizards in areas with continental climate. We noticed a certain dynamics in the number of larval and nymphal stages throughout the season. The Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis complex) was the most infested lizard species (77.4% infestation), and the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis sicula) was the least infested (11.1% infestation). There was only a weak correlation between lizard size and tick number. We also noticed 1101 parasitic mites (subclass Acarina, excluding Ixodida) infesting 25.9% of lizards. Some mites were collected and later identified as Ophionyssus lacertinus and Ericotrombidium sp. (Trombiculidae). The Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis sicula) was most infested lizard species with parasitic mites (76.7% infestation). The majority of parasitic mites was concentrated in the region of hind legs, under belly scales and on the tail. There was no statistically significant difference in infestation in various habitats or between males and females. Lizards living in the submediterranean area were significantly more infested than lizards in areas with continental climate (exactly the opposite as infestation with ticks). These are the first data on parasitic mites on lacertid lizards in Slovenia.
Cai, B. & Ji, X. & Wang, Y. & Rao, D. & Huang, S. & Wang, Y. & Song, Z. & Guo, X. & Jiang, J. (2022) -
From the perspectives of biodiversity conservation and management, there is an urgent need to have at hand current synopses of classification and distributions of species. In this paper, we review and summarize the classifications, Chinese and English names, type specimens, type localities and distributions of China’s lizard fauna to promote scientific exchange and species conservation among relevant people in China and internationally. As of December 31, 2020, a total of 230 species of lizard, belonging to 44 genera and 12 families, have been recorded from China, including 4 invasive species: 2 in the family Gekkonidae, 1 in Iguanidae and one in Dactyloidae. There are 115 endemic species, accounting for 50% of this group. The proportion of endemic species to China was the highest in the family Eublepharidae (84.62%), and the number of endemic species to China was the highest in the family Agamidae (42 species). The species distributions and classification in the “Fauna Sinica (Reptilia 2): Squamata (Lacertilia)” were updated. Among the provincial administrative units, there is a larger number of species in the southern provinces, such as Yunnan, Guangdong, Guangxi and Taiwan. Sichuan, Yunnan, and Taiwan harbour relatively more endemic species than others. A total of 154 species of lizards were first discovered in China, and the type localities of these species are concentrated in Yunnan, Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang, and Sichuan.
Cai, Y. & Yan, J. & Xu, X.-F. & Lin, Z.-H. & Ji, X. (2012) -
We sequenced partial mitochondrial DNA from the cytochrome b gene (1143 bps) for 385 northern grass lizards (Takydromus septentrionalis) from 14 mainland and 14 island populations covering almost the lizard’s entire range to examine the influence of geographic barriers (mountain ranges and water bodies) on the diversification of lineages. Phylogenetic analyses revealed a detailed distribution of three evolutionary lineages (W, E and G). Lineage G included individuals exclusively from Guiyang, in the south-western distributional limit. Lineage W included individuals from the central and western parts of the lizard’s range on the mainland. Lineage E included individuals from East China, both on the mainland and on islands in the East China Sea. Haplotypes from lineages W and E were co-distributed in Chuzhou and Chibi. The averaged pairwise distance of 6.23% between these lineages indicated a Miocene-Pliocene lineage-split. Lineage E was further subdivided to three sublineages: E1 and E2 comprised of haplotypes from the Zhoushan Islands, and E3 included haplotypes from the eastern mainland, the Zhoushan Islands and two islands south of the Zhoushan Islands. Lineages W and E showed evidence of demographic extensions. The isolation caused by the last transgression (0.01 Ma) has not yet led to a significant genetic differentiation between mainland and island populations in East China. However, divergence among some small islands may be driven by the restriction of migration and genetic drift.
Caina, C. & Heller, S. (2013) -
Cakici, O. & Akat, E. (2012) -
We examined the effects of carbaryl in the digestive system of Ophisops elegans. Lizards were exposed once to different concentrations of carbaryl (2.5, 25 and 250 lg/g). After 96 h, findings related to the esophagus in all treatment groups were not conspicuous. The most important histological defects were observed in the stomach. In the small intestine, collapse of villi was prominent at high-dose. In the large intestine, disintegration in epithelial cells and scattered secretory granules of goblet cells were observed at high dose.
Cakici, Ö. & Akat, E. (2013) -
The current study was designed to evaluate some histomorphological and histochemical characteristics of the digestive tract of Ophisops elegans, the most common lizard species in Turkey. The digestive tract was mainly composed of esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine. Each of these consisted of mucosa, submucosa, tunica muscularis and serosa, as in higher vertebrates. The folded esophageal mucosa had ciliated columnar epithelium with mucous secreting goblet cells which stained positive with PAS (Periodic Acid Schiff) and AB (Alcian Blue) procedures. The surface of the columnar cells of the gastric mucosa and gastric glands of stomach were strongly stained with PAS, but did not show any reaction with AB. The mucosa of small intestine was composed of columnar epithelium with goblet cells that exhibited a strong positive reaction to both PAS and AB. Despite the fact that the mucous secreting cells of the large intestine displayed a strong positive reactivity with PAS, they exhibited a weak reaction with AB. In addition, some statistical differences in AB /PAS staining cellular area and epithelial cell/nuclear area among the parts of the digestive tract were noted. The area of PAS positive material in goblet cells was much greater than the area of AB positive mucosubstances (GAGs) in the large intestine.
Cakmak, M. & Akman, B. & Yildiz, M.Z. (2017) -
In this investigation, we aimed to determine the amphibian and reptile species distributed in Bartın province (Northwest Blacksea Region of Turkey). As a result of previously and current studies, we recorded two Urodela amphibian species (Ommatotriton ophryticus and Triturus ivanbureschi), six Anura amphibian species (Bufo bufo, Bufotes variabilis, Hyla orientalis, Pelophylax ridibundus, Rana macrocnemis and R. dalmatina), three turtle species (Emys orbicularis, Mauremys rivulata and Testudo graeca), four lizard species (Anguis fragilis, Darevskia rudis, Lacerta viridis and Podarcis muralis) and eight snake species (Coronella austriaca, Dolichophis caspius, Eirenis modestus, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, N. megalocephala, Vipera transcaucasiana and Zamenis longissimus) in Bartın Province, which totally 23 species. There are no endemic species in our country among them. Natrix megalocephala is also a new record for Bartın province.
Calabresi, E. (1915) -
Calari, L. (1879) -
Caldonazzi, M. & Pedrini, P. & Zanghellini, S. (2002) -
Calera, A. & Cano, J. (1979) -
Calori, L. (1858) -
Calsbeek, B. & Hasselquist, D. & Clobert, J. (2010) -
A major goal in evolutionary biology is to determine how phenotypic variation arises and is maintained in natural populations. Recent studies examining the morphological, physiological and behavioural differences among discrete colour morphotypes (morphs) have revealed several mechanisms that maintain discrete variation within populations, including frequency-dependence, density-dependence and correlational selection. For example, trade-offs over resource allocation to morphological, physiological and behavioural traits can drive correlational selection for morph-specific phenotypic optima. Here, we describe a ventral colour polymorphism in the wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) and test the hypothesis that morphs differ along multivariate axes defined by trade-offs in morphological, physiological, and immunological traits. We show that ventral colour is a discrete trait and that morphs differ in body size, prevalence of infection by parasites and infection intensity. We also find that morphs differ along multivariate phenotypic axes and experience different multivariate selection pressures. Our results suggest that multivariate selection pressures may favour alternative optimal morph-specific phenotypes in P. muralis.
Calviño-Cancela, M. & Escudero, M. & Rodríguez-Pérez, J. & Cano, E. & Vargas, P. & Velo-Antón, G. & Traveset, A. (2012) -
Aim The genetic structure of many plant species is heavily dependent on their pollinators and seed dispersers, and can thus be altered if either of the associated mutualistic interactions is disrupted. In this study we assess the genetic diversity and structure and infer the seed/pollen gene-flow patterns among insular populations of Daphne rodriguezii, a shrub pollinated and dispersed by animals that has lost its only disperser (the lizard Podarcis lilfordi) in most of its populations. Location The island of Menorca and the islet of Colom (Balearic Islands, Western Mediterranean). Methods To assess the contribution of gene flow via pollen and seeds to the genetic structure of D. rodriguezii we used amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs; seeds and pollen) and plastid DNA sequences (cpDNA; seeds). We sampled individuals from all population nuclei of the species (12–19 adults per population): one population in Colom, where the plant–lizard interaction persists, and four in Menorca, where the seed dispersal mutualism disappeared with the extinction of the lizard. Results The highest heterozygosity values were found in Colom and in its closest population (Favàritx), whereas values were lower in the smallest Menorcan populations, which also had higher relatedness among individuals. We found distinct genetic signals between AFLP and cpDNA analyses. While AFLP markers showed low differentiation between populations, cpDNA showed a clear differentiation between them. Main conclusions Our results point to negative impacts of the disperser loss on genetic diversity and relatedness in the smaller and more isolated populations. They also suggest an old isolation by seeds, probably occurring well before the extinction of the lizard (c. 2000 years ago). Gene flow was maintained via pollination; however, the seed disperser loss may ultimately hinder pollinator-mediated gene flow, as a result of reduced probabilities of effective pollination among increasingly distant and scarce individuals.
Camajová, E. & Jablonski, D. (2009) -
Camara, M.I. & Gil, J. & Gonzalez, F. & Puig, D. (1990) -
Camarasa, S. & Ferrer, J. & Ait Hammou, M. & Dahmani, W. & Maatoug, M. & Sanuy, D. & Dellal, A. (2015) -
The study that we present has two objectives: to expand our knowledge of the herpetofauna in the region of Tiaret and bordering areas, with a primary focus on distribution and update the threats that will affect this group, to propose solutions to protect and conserve the species of these areas. In spring 2014, we identified in this study, 6 species of amphibians and 22 species of reptiles. In some cases, we collected biological samples for later analysis. The majority of locations where prospected between May 22 and June 7, has a high biodiversity of herpetofauna, which shows how important it is, to preserve this species.
Camerano, L. (1877) -
Camerano, L. (1878) -
Camerano, L. (1885) -
Camerano, L. (1886) -
Camerano, L. & Lessona, M. (1885) -
Campeny Valls, R. (1999) -
Campeny, R. (1987) -
Campeny, R. & Villero, D. (2001) -
Campos-Such, D. (2017) -
This paper analyses the literature published in the last 17 years regarding records of albinism, axanthism, erythrism, leucism, melanism, nigrism or piebaldism, among other chromatic anomalies in Iberian herps.Whereas hipomelanistic disorders showed to be more widespread, melanism cases had a high occurrence pattern in the northern side of the Iberian Peninsula.We suggest that thermal melanism could be an adaptive advantage for ectotherms. Notwithstanding this, we also discuss the possible negative effect of the color aberrations taking into account differences in pre-dation pressure.
Campos, J.C. & Rodrigues, S. & Freitas, T. & Santos, J.A. & Honrado, J.P. & Regos, A. (2021) -
Climate change has been widely accepted as one of the major threats for global biodiversity and understanding its potential effects on species distribution is crucial to optimise conservation planning in future scenarios under global change. Integrating detailed climatic data across spatial and temporal scales into species distribution modelling can help to predict potential changes in biodiversity. Consequently, this type of data can be useful for developing efficient biodiversity management and conservation planning. The provision of such data becomes even more important in highly biodiverse regions, currently suffering from climatic and landscape changes. The Transboundary Biosphere Reserve of Meseta Ibérica (BRMI; Portugal-Spain) is one of the most relevant reserves for wildlife in Europe. This highly diverse region is of great ecological and socio-economical interest, suffering from synergistic processes of rural land abandonment and climatic instabilities that currently threaten local biodiversity. Aiming to optimise conservation planning in the Reserve, we provide a complete dataset of historical and future climate models (1 x 1 km) for the BRMI, used to build a series of distribution models for 207 vertebrate species. These models are projected for 2050 under two climate change scenarios. The climatic suitability of 52% and 57% of the species are predicted to decrease under the intermediate and extreme climatic scenarios, respectively. These models constitute framework data for improving local conservation planning in the Reserve, which should be further supported by implementing climate and land-use change factors to increase the accuracy of future predictions of species distributions in the study area.
Candan, K. (2021) -
Age structure and longevity in 47 museum specimens (31 females and 16 males) of Lacerta agilis from two different populations in Turkey were skeletochronologically studied. The mean SVL of males was not significantly different from those of females, although intersexual differences in body size are female-biased. The age structure ranged from 3 to 6 years in male individuals, and 3 to 8 years in females. Age at sexual maturity was 2 years for males, while females reached sexual maturity after the third year of life. The age did not significantly differ between the sexes. Additionally, age structure and SVL did not significantly differ between the two populations. A significant positive correlation between SVL and age structure was present for the Kars population, although there was a weak correlation for the Ardahan population. Considering sex, there was a significant difference in terms of SVL for the Ardahan population, while age structure significantly differed for the Kars population.
Candan, K. & Caynak, E.Y. & Kumlutas, Y. & Günister, O.S. & Ilgaz, C. (2023) -
Apathya cappadocica is a medium-sized lizard species included in the family Lacertidae. The species is known from Türkiye, Northern Syria, Iraq, and Western Iran. Sexual dimorphism (SD), which is a phenomenon including phenotypic differences between males and females, has many effects on behaviour, shape and size characteristics. A total of 87 adult lizard specimens collected from south-eastern Anatolia were used in this study. The results of ANOVA showed that all morphometric features exhibited a pattern in which males have larger size than females. According to principal component analysis (PCA), the first three factors explain 81.553% of the total variance. Differences in head size between sexes have been well-documented in lizards and are associated with male-male aggression which results in mating success. This kind of pattern is supported by this study. Additionally, the results showed that males have more femoral pores, which is a signalling mechanism for sexual selection, than females. In conclusion, it can be accepted that the species in the genus Apathya has a similar pattern in accordance with the larger male theory.
Candan, K. & Gül, S. & Kumlutas, Y. & Yildirim Caynak, E. & Ilgaz, C. (2020) -
Darevskia parvulais a rock lizard that is endemicfor Anatolia.The known distribution range of the species is limited on eastern and northeastern Anatolia. Although many morphological studies have been carried out onthe species, there are also molecular studies to construct its taxonomy in recent years. Four adult lizard specimens were collected from eastern Anatolia in 2016 during a herpetological field survey. We present a summary of a morphological features, and report new locality which is the westernmost record (Çayırlı Village, Erzincan) for D. parvula sensu lato in Turkey. Our finding largely extends the known distribution of the species.
Candan, K. & Kankılıç, T. & Güçlü, Ö. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Durmuş, S.H. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Ilgaz, Ç. (2016) -
The genus Anatololacerta (Lacertidae) occurs mainly in Anatolia (western and southern Turkey) and on the Aegean islands Samos, Ikaria, and Rhodos. Although its taxonomy has long been debated and is currently nascent, three morphological species have been attributed to this genus: Anatololacerta anatolica, Anatololacerta oertzeni, and Anatololacerta danfordi. Here, we investigated the evolutionary history of A. oertzeni and Anatololacerta danfordi based on both mitochondrial and nuclear markers (16S rRNA and cmos). In total, 34 Anatololacerta specimens were analyzed using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) methods. Our results supported the presence of four well-supported lineages: two belongs to A. oertzeni and two to A. danfordi. The temporal diversification of these lineages probably started with the divergence of the first A. oertzeni lineage from western Antalya at 7.9 Mya. The other two major splits may have occurred in early Pliocene (4.4 Mya: the divergence of the second A. oertzeni from A. danfordi) and in late Pliocene (2.7 Mya: the divergence of the two lineages of A. danfordi). The phylogeographical scenario suggests that the major diversification events (from late Miocene to late Pliocene) could be related with climatic oscillations (such as the late Miocene aridification and the Messinian Salinity Crisis) and tectonic movements (such as the uplift of the central Taurus mountain).
Candan, K. & Kornilios, P. & Ayaz, D. & Kumlutas, Y. & Gül, S, & Yildirim Caynak, E. & Ilgaz, C. (2021) -
Taxonomy of the lacertid genus Darevskia has been complex since the first morphology-based studies. Darevskia valentini, mostly distributed in Turkey, currently includes three subspecies, but its interspecific and intraspecific taxonomic status has so far been shaped only by morphological evaluations, without molecular phylogenetic assessments. In this study, samples from the entire distribution of this species and its closest relatives were evaluated with molecular phylogenetic analyses of a multi-marker dataset, comprised of maternally-inherited mitochondrial and biparentally-inherited nuclear markers. We discovered two previously unrecognized genetically highly divergent lineages. The distinction of these two lineages is supported by gene trees, haplotype networks, divergence time estimation and species-delimitation analyses. We discuss possible taxonomic resolutions given that the phylogenies do not seem to agree with currently accepted taxonomy. Our results advance the knowledge of the ancestry of parthenogenesis as a result of past hybridization events between parental species pairs, because the paternal origin of some parthenogenetic species lies within the new lineages discovered here.
Candan, K. & Kornilios, P. & Yanhukov, A. & Kumlutas, Y. & Ayaz, D. & Tarknishvili, D. & Murtskhvaladze, M. & Kurdaze, S. & Barateli, N. & Gabelaia, M. & Sahin, M.K. & Matur, F. & Gül, S. & Yildirim Caynak, E. & Colak, F. & Ilgaz, C. (2019) -
Darevskia valentini is the most widely distributed species among the Caucasian rock lizard but the phylogenetic relationship among geographically distant populations is poorly known. W sequenced several mitochondrial (12S rRNA, COI an cyt b) andnuclear (MC1R and cmos) genes from 75 individual samples collected across Central and Eastern Turkey. In total, 349 bp of 12S rRNA, 615 bp of COI, 743 bp of cyt b of mtDNA and 620 bp of MC1R, 326 bp of cmos of nDNA were obtained. Additionally, 34 individuals from Georgia and Eastern Turkey were genotyped for 10 microsatellite loci. Phylogenetic analyses (ML and BI) produced trees with similar topologies including well-supported clades. One clade found in the area of Lake Van is clearly separated from others on the phylogenetic tree, and the respective population formed distinct STRUCTURE and PCA clusters in the microsatellite data. Our results may suggest that D. valentini, one of the most complex species in Darevskia genus, needs taxonomical revision at the subspecies level.
Candan, K. & Yildirin Caynak, E. & Kumlutas, Y. & Özender, Ö. & Ilgaz, C. (2020) -
Herpetofauna of the vicinity of Meke Maar (Konya) -- In this study, the amphibian and reptile species distributing the vicinity of Meke Maar were determined and it is tried to provide missing information about herpetofauna of the region. A total of 15 species including 1 anuran, 1 tortoise, 7 lizards and 6 snakes were identified as a result of the field studies.
Cannington, B. (2015) -
Cano, C. (1984) -
Cano, J. & Baez, M. & Lopez-Jurado, L.F. & Ortega, G. (1984) -
Cano, J. & Pretel, A. & Sanchez, M.L. & Orozco, J.C. (1978) -
Canova, L. & Marchesi, M. (2007) -
Seven species of amphibians and reptiles were observed in eleven Sites of Community Importance (SCI) of the Lodi Province (NW Italy). Distribution and rela-tive abundance of amphibians appeared more variable than reptiles. Some species of conservation concern as R. latastei were influenced by habitat physiognomy, i.e. the surface of wooded areas are important in predict presence and relative abundance of this species. SCI with wider surfaces and higher habitat heterogeneity included higher number of species. Species richness, here considered as a raw index of biodiversity value and community quality, was significantly related to SCI area and habitat hetero-geneity; since this significant positive relation is confirmed both for amphibians and reptiles we suggest that, in planning of natural areas, priority must be retained for biotopes able to host the higher number of species.
Cantera, X. (2014) -
Cantera, X. (2015) -
Investigadores del Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC) han analizado la respuesta a las condiciones ambientales de la lagartija de Guadarrama, Podarcis guadarramae, perteneciente al complejo de especies de la lagartija ibérica, y han descubierto que las diferencias morfológicas entre poblaciones están determinadas por las condiciones ambientales que experimentan más que por sus diferencias genéticas.
Cantini, M. & Menchettgi, M. & Vannini, A. & Bruni, G. & Borri, B. & Mori, E. (2013) -
We present the results of a two year field survey on the herpetofauna of the Poggi di Prata area in Central Italy. A total of 2,653 records were made on nine Amphibian and sixteen Reptile species. Eleven species had not been recorded before. Bombina pachypus has not been observed since 2004 and represents a conservation concern. Among the main threats to the local herpetofauna, we consider the filling-in of the ponds, the abandonment of the traditional agricultural practices, road kills, killings of snakes by lay people, fish introductions and, possibly, climate change.
Capaldo, A. & Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. & Putti, R. & Cavagnuolo, A. (1988) -
Capaldo, A. & Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. & Putti, R. & Cavagnuolo, A. (1991) -
Capizzi, D. (1999) -
The dietary habits of Lacerta horvathi MÉHELY, 1904, from the Tarvisio Forest (Carnic Alps, Province of Udine) were studied using faecal pellet analysis. 81 specimens were analyzed for prey remnants in tlieir faecal pellets. The sexes did not differ significantly in terms of SVL (one-way ANOVA: P < 0.30), but males were larger than females. Lacerta horvathi fed mainly upon Opiliones and Araneae, while the proportion of insects was quite low. Both mean number of prey items per faecal pellet and food niche breadth was higher in males than in females and juveniles, but the differences between the three classes were not statistically significant. Compared with several other lacertid species, L. horvathi seems to be much less a food generalist. In fact, it is strongly specialized in preying upon grounddwelling arthropods. Furthermore, the prey types eaten suggest that this lizard is an active forager, as expected in small-sized rupicolous lacertids.
Capizzi, D. & Luiselli, L. & Vignoli, L. (2006) -
Capizzi, D. & Luiselli, L. & Vignoli, L. (2007) -
Flight initiation distance in relation to substratum type, sex, reproductive status and tail condition was studied in two lacertid lizards with contrasting habits: the ground-dwelling common lizard Zootoca vivipara and the rupicolous Horvath`s rock lizard Iberolacerta horvathi. These species were studied in sympatric populations in a mountain area in North-Eastern Italy, Tarvisio Forest. Mean escape distance was significantly higher in I. horvathi than in Z. vivipara. In both species there were significant differences between sexes, with males escaping at longer distances than females but there were no significant differences between adults and subadults. In both species there were no differences in escape distance of females in different reproductive states. In Z. vivipara specimens with broken tails escaped at a shorter distance than individuals with intact tails. Substratum type had a significant effect on escape distance in both species.
Capó Bauzà, S. & Forteza Joy, P.A. & Nicolau Marí, A. & Lluc Jiménez Jofre, M. de & Guasp Bosch, E. (2013) -
Capocaccia, L. (1955) -
Capocaccia, L. (1964) -
Capocaccia, L. (1977) -
Capolongo, D. (1979) -
Preliminary description of a new microinsular Italian wall lizard from Dino Island (Thyrrhenian Sea; Calabria): Podarcis sicula amparoae n. subsp.
Capolongo, D. (1984) -
Remarks on some reptiles from Apulia (SE Italy), especially on Coluber viridiflavus, and description of two new microinsular subspecies: Coluber viridiflavus antoniimanueli from S. Andrea Island, near Gallipoli, and Podarcis sicula aemiliani from the Apani Rocks, near Brindisi.
Capriglione, T. (1995) -
Capriglione, T. & Cardone, A. & Odierna, G. & Olmo, E. (1990) -
Capriglione, T. & Cardone, A. & Odierna, G. & Olmo, E. (1991) -
The composition and phyletic distribution of a highly repetitive satellite DNA, isolated from Podarcis sicula, was studied. 2. This DNA was rich in adenine and thymine and displayed frequent adenine stretches. It was always located on the centromeric heterochromatin even in quite taxonomically distant species. 3. Southern blot hybridization of the Taq I satellite on various species of lacertid families showed a close affinity among Podarcis, Algyroides and Lacerta dugesii. 4. All the other taxa investigated did not seem to possess this repeated sequence.
Capriglione, T. & Cardone, A. & Odierna, G. & Olmo, E. (1994) -
This paper reports the isolation and characterization of twoHindIII repetitive DNA families from the genome of two lacertid lizards,Podarcis sicula andLacerta saxicola. These satellites did not appear to be related to each other. The consensus sequences of their monomeric units did not show any similarity, though both DNAs were A-T rich. Moreover, each of them was found only in closely related species. The monomeric unit of theHindIII DNA family isolated fromP. sicula (pLHS) showed a close resemblance to pLCS, a centromeric satellite DNA previously isolated from the same species; it was, however, mainly localized at pericentromeric, interstitial and telomeric levels. The results also provide interesting information on the systematics of the lacertids studied.
Capriglione, T. & De Iorio, S. & Gay, F. & Capaldo, A. & Vaccaro, M.C. & Morescalchi, M.A. & Laforgia, V. (2011) -
The increasing use of pesticides in modern agriculture has raised the need to evaluate their potential threat to animal and human health. In the present study, the genotoxic effects of environmentally relevant exposure to the fungicide thiophanate-methyl (TM) were assessed in the lizard Podarcis sicula (Reptilia, Lacertidae) using micronucleus test, chromosome aberration analysis and single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assay. The number of micronuclei increased significantly with exposure time in lizard specimens exposed to 1.5% TM for 30–40 days. In situ hybridization with the specific HindIII centromeric satellite was positive in 18.7% of the micronuclei observed, suggesting an aneugenic effect of TM during mitosis. DNA damage, evaluated by the comet assay, documented a significant gain in comet length in relation to exposure time that was paralleled by a reduction in head size. Finally, cytogenetic analysis showed a significant increase in chromosome aberrations in exposed animals compared with controls. Our data suggest that long-term TM exposure induces a genomic damage that is positively correlated to exposure time. If such genotoxic effects arise so clearly in an ectothermal vertebrate, such as P. sicula, prolonged exposure TM must be considered as a cytogenetic hazard.
Capriglione, T. & De Santo, M.G. & Odierna, G. & Olmo, E. (1998) -
A PstI DNA family was isolated from the genome of a lacertid, Lacerta graeca. The 185-bp monomeric unit (pGPS) was cloned and hybridized to DNAs and chromosomes of several lacertid species. The data showed that pGPS hybridizes to the (1) centromeric or pericentromeric heterochromatin of almost all the chromosomes of L. graeca and (2) genomic DNA of species phylogenetically related and unrelated to L. graeca. The presence of pGPS even in species immunologically apart more than 30 million years suggests that this repeated family might be either very ancient or have been conserved during evolution due to its functional role. The latter hypothesis might be supported by the results of sequence analysis which showed some homology with both several alphoid sequences of primates and the CDEIII centromeric sequence of yeast. Segments of the satellite sequence are similar to the mammalian CENP-B box. These observations suggest that pGPS might have a role in determining the centromeric function in lacertid lizards.
Capriglione, T. & Olmo, E. & Odierna, G. & Kupriyanova, L.A. (1994) -
Cytological and molecular evidence is provided to characterize the sex chromosomes of several species of Lacertidae. Observations on pachytene and lampbrush stages show that sex chromosomes have different condensation cycles and are only partially paired during meiosis. Bkm probe hybridization to Pst I-treated genomic DNA of Podarcis sicula and Lacerta vivipara shows the same pattern both in males and females. In situ hybridization of the same probe to Lacerta vivipara chromosomes shows no preferential localization of this DNA sequence. The results obtained clearly exclude the possible involvement of Bkm in sex-chromosome differentiation in the species investigated.
Capriglione, T. & Olmo, E. & Odierna, G. & Smith, D.I. & Miller, O.J. (1989) -
A detailed study on the genome of the lizard P. sicula has been carried out using restriction enzyme analysis followed by identification and cloning of a repetitive DNA fraction. The results show that P. sicula generally possesses a quite homogeneous genome composition, with a single tandemly repetitive sequence family that is easily visualized after digestion of genomic DNA with Taq I. The cloned repeating unit of this satellite (260 bp) has been designed pLCSl. In-situ hybridisation shows that this satellite is localized in the centromeric region. Dot blot experiments show that sequences similar to pLCSl are present in other species of the same family of lizards.
Capriglione, T. & Vaccaro, M.C. & Morescalchi, M.A. & Tammaro, S. & De Iorio, S. (2010) -
DMRT genes encode a large family of transcription factors which share an unusual cysteine-rich DNA-binding motif, the DM domain. DM family members have been studied in the context of sexual development; in particular, the DMRT1 gene appeared to be the one most directly involved in sex determination, but its activity is largely unexplored and possible downstream targets of this factor have yet to be identified. DMRT1 of the lacertid lizard Podarcis sicula (PsDMRT1) was isolated as a model to study differential gene expression during the seasonal reproductive cycle of an ectothermal species. The adult testis of P. sicula exhibits full activity in spring, complete regression in summer and a slow autumnal recrudescence without spermiation. We cloned a 591-bp partial ORF of the PsDMRT1 fragment, whose putative amino acid sequence contains the conserved DM domain. Northern blot analysis of mRNA from different tissues of P. sicula individuals captured in spring demonstrated DMRT1 transcripts only in testis. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR and in situ hybridization experiments showed peak PsDMRT1 expression in spring, lower expression in autumn and no expression during the period of gonad regression. A possible correlation between androgen level variations and PsDMRT1 transcripts is hypothesized and discussed. Finally, data showed that PsDMRT1 is expressed only in spermatogenic cells, before the second meiotic division, suggesting that its role is confined to the proliferation and maintenance of spermatogonia and spermatocytes.
Capula, M. (1990) -
Capula, M. (1992) -
Podarcis sicula is an opportunistic and eurikous lacertid lizard occurring as autochthon species in peninsular Italy, Sicily and in a number of Tyrrhenian islands and islets (HENLE & KLAVER 1986). It inhabits also the Adriatic coast of Yugosla- via and several Adriatic islands (NEVO et al. 1972). Distributional and genetic data indicate that in some Tyrrhenian islands, e.g. Sardinia, Corsica, Tuscan Archipelago, this lizard has been accidentally introduced by man in proto-historic or historic times, invading the range of other Podarcis species (e.g., P. tiliguerta, P. muralis) (LANZA 1983, 1988, CORTI et al. 1989). In these islands the allochthon P. sicula seems to have competed successfully with the native congeneric species, reducing their range (e.g., P. tiliguerta in Corsica and Sardinia) (LANZA 1983, 1988), or replacing them through competitive exclusion (e.g., P. muralis in the Tuscan Archipelago) (CORTI et al. 1989). In the present paper preliminary data are given on the occurrence of exclusion of P. wagleriana by P. sicula in the Aeolian Islands (Sicily). P. wagleriana is endemic to Sicily, Aegadian, Stagnone (Isola Grande) and Aeolian Islands, and has been traditionally considered closely related to P . sicula.
Capula, M. (1993) -
An allozyme survey revealed instances of natural hybridization between Podarcis sicula and P. wagleriana from the Aegadian and Aeolian islands (Sicily). Pure specimens of both species together with F1 hybrids were found on Vulcano (Aeolian Islands) and Marettimo (Aegadian Islands). Limited evidence of backcrossing was detected on Marettimo. The two hybrid zones were interpreted as secondary overlap zones, being due to the relatively recent extension of the range of P. sicula into the peripheral range of P. wagleriana. On both islands, hybrids were found only in areas of habitat disturbance. At Lipari (Aeolian Islands) some specimens morphologically recognized as P. sicula had an ldh-1 allele typical of P. wagleriana, although the latter species is not known from the island. This may result from past hybridization and introgression, followed by the extinction of P. wagleriana on the island. Natural hybridization between P. sicula and P. wagleriana was not evidenced on the island of Favignana and in Sicily.
Capula, M. (1994) -
The electrophoretic variation at 26 presumptive gene loci was investigated in populations of Podarcis ivagleriana from Sicily, the Aegadian Islands, and the Aeolian Islands. For interspecific comparison, samples of the closely related lizard P. sicula from the same geographic area were also used. Population heterogeneity analyses carried out by the estimation of F-statistics and Nei`s standard genetic distance, showed a high genetic homogeneity within P. sicula, but a noticeable genetic differentiation within P. wagleriana. In the latter species, Nei`s D ranged from 0 to 0.212, and this is because the Aeolian populations were quite distinct from those inhabiting Sicily and the Aegadian Islands. Fixed differences identified at three loci (Ck, Ada, Gp-4) contributed to a relatively high value of Nei`s standard genetic distance between the two population groups (D= 0.147). This value is very similar to those found comparing pairs of well-recognized biological species included in the genera Podarcis and Lacerta. Estimation of the time of evolutionary divergence shows that the Aeolian and Sicilian populations of P. wagleriana have been isolated geographically for a long time (0.7 Myr according to Nei`s formula; 2 Myr according to Sarich`s calibration), indicating evolutionary divergence at the species level. Based on genetic and biogeographic data, it is suggested the recognition of full specific status for the Aeolian populations, for which the name P. rajfonei comb. nova (Aeolian wall lizard) is proposed. Electrophoretic data and comparative species distributions suggest that (1) Podarcis sicula recently colonized the Aeolian Islands, and (2) it has competed successfully with P. rajfonei in this area, greatly reducing the range of the latter and causing the extinction of most of its populations. In fact, P. sicula is widespread in the Aeolian Archipelago, while P. rajfonei is confined at present to one large island (Vulcano) and three tiny islands (Strombolicchio, Scoglio Faraglione, La Canna). This can be considered a classic example of competitive exclusion of a native form (P. rajfonei) by a species accidentally introduced by man (P. sicula).
The electrophoretic variation at 26 presumptive gene loci was investigated in populations of the closely related species Podarcis sicula, P. wagleriana, P. raffonei, and P. filfolensis. Low values of proportion of polymorphic loci (P) and mean observed heterozygosity (Ho) were found in P. sicula (P= 0.10; Ho= 0.016), P. wagleriana (P= 0.13; Ho= 0.029), and P. raffonei (P= 0.08; Ho= 0.017), while higher levels of genetic variability were observed in P. filfolensis (P= 0.17; Ho= 0.054). In the latter species, a multiple regression analysis was carried out in order to analyse the geographic correlates of P and Ho. The results of this analysis were consistent with the predictions of the time-divergence theory of variation, supporting the conclusion that directional selection is the main force eroding genetic variation on small islands. Intraspecific values of Nei`s (1972) standard genetic distance were relatively low in P. sicula (average D= 0.024), P. wagleriana (average D= 0.004), and P. filfolensis (average D= 0.012), while higher in P. raffonei (D= 0.040). The lizards from Pantellena Island, which were considered by BISCHOFF (1986) to be very similar to P. filfolensis from Malta on the basis of a superficial analysis of the coloration pattern, were shown to actually belong to P. sicula. This confirms that the range of P. filfolensis only includes the Maltese Archipelago, Linosa Island, and the islet of Lampione. Surprisingly, the samples of P. filfolensis from the Pelagie Islands (Linosa and Lampione) were very similar to those from the Maltese Archipelago (average D= 0.016). This could be explained by rafting or anthropogenic introduction of P. filfolensis on Linosa and Lampione. Podarcis wagleriana and P. raffonei were genetically related (average D= 0.152), confirming the results of previous electrophoretic investigations. Podarcis filfolensis, though showing some morphological affinity with P. wagleriana, was genetically highly differentiated from this latter species (average D= 0.526), while being more similar to P. sicula (average D= 0.306). This indicates a close relationship between P. sicula and P. filfolensis, suggesting that P. sicula and P. filfolensis probably diverged from a common ancestor, and that the apparent similarity between P. filfolensis and P. wagleriana could be merely due to morphological convergence.
Allozyme electrophoresis was used to study the genetic variability (proportion of polymorphic loci and heterozygosity) in insular populations (Corsica, Elba, Montecristo, Marettimo, Pantelleria) of the lacertid lizard Podarcis sicula. These populations were presumed to have originated from episodes of accidental anthropogenic introduction. In order to test the hypothesis of a man-aided colonization and to provide comparative data, heterozygosity and polymorphism were also estimated in autochthonous populations ofP. sicula from the Italian peninsula and Sicily. In each case, the presumed introduced population showed levels of genetic variability significantly lower than those detected in the autochthonous ones. Very little genetic differentiation was found among native and presumed colonist populations, Nei`s standard genetic distances ranging from 0.001 to 0.009. These results strongly support the hypothesis thatP. sicula was only recently introduced to the studied islands, and provide additional evidence of reduced genetic variability due to founder effect in insular populations originating from episodes of human transportation.
Capula, M. (1996) -
Podarcis tiliguerta is an insular Mediterranean lacertid lizard endemic to Corsica, Sardinia and many neighbouring small islands. The genetic structure and population heterogeneity of the species were studied by means of allozyme electrophoresis at 20 presumptive gene loci. The observed heterozygosity (Ho) decreases southwards towards more arid climatic regimes. No severe reduction in genetic variability was found in samples from the tiny satellite islands, except for a population inhabiting a very small island off the south-western coast of Sardinia (Meli Island), in which about 80 per cent of the genetic variability was lost. Population heterogeneity analysis carried out by the estimation of Wright`s F-statistics demonstrated substantial genetic differentiation among populations. The value of FST (0.460) exceeds values known for other lizard species. F-statistics and genetic distance data show that genetic variation is distributed into three geographically coherent population groups. The first group includes populations from the northern part of the range (Corsica), the second includes populations from the small islands off the south-eastern coast of Corsica (Cerbicale and Lavezzi), and the third comprises populations from the southern part of the range (Sardinia and Meli Island). The pattern of genetic variability and the apparent clinal variation of alleles at a few loci (Idh-1, Gapd, Gpi) indicate that the subdivided genetic structure of P. tiliguerta is moulded by the interplay of stochastic processes and agents selectively affecting allele frequency changes.
Capula, M. (1997) -
Allozyme electrophoresis was used to study genetic variability in Italian insular populations of the ecologically variable lizard Podarcis muralis. To test the theory predicting more genetic variation in mainland than in island populations, polymorphism and heterozygosity also were estimated in mainland populations of P. muralis from Italy, Spain and Austria. The results of this investigation showed that levels of genetic variability in insular populations were significantly higher than those in mainland populations. This is probably because the insular populations inhabit marginal environments characterized by temporal-ecological instability. In these environments high heterozygosity levels can be preserved after colonization events, unless founder populations are so small that bottleneck effects occur.
Capula, M. (2000) -
Capula, M. (2001) -
Capula, M. (2002) -
An allozyme survey revealed instances of natural hybridi zation between Podarci s sicula and P. tiliguerta from a locality of southern Sardinia. Pure specimens of both species together with some F1 hybri ds were found, but no evi dence of backcrossing was detected. The hybrid specimens appeared morphologically intermediate between the parent species. The absence of backcrossed individuals indicate that free interbreeding between the two species is unlikely. Hybrids were found in areas of habitat disturbance only.
Capula, M. (2004) -
The conservation status of Podarcis raffonei, native to the Aeolian Islands (north cast of Sicily, Tyrrhenian Sea), is assessed by studying its genetic structure and evidencing factors affecting the survival of the species. Genetic variation in the species is quite low and genetic subdivision is high, as compared to other lacertid lizards and to vertebrates in general. Very little gene flow was detected, implying little or no contact between populations. The four remaining populations of P. raffonei are under severe threat from the effects of habitat alteration, interspecific competition, collecting and trade, very low population density and inbreeding, population fragmentation, and apparent loss of genetic variation. Possible management and conservation measures are suggested.
Capula, M. (2006) -
The conservation status of Podarcis raffonei, native to the Aeolian Islands (north-east of Sicily, Tyrrhenian Sea), is assessed anaslyzing in genetic structure and evidencing factors affecting the survival of the species. Genetiv variation in the species is quite low and genetic subdivision is high, as compared to other lacertid lizards. The four remaining populations of P. raffonei are under severe threat from the effects of habitat alteration, interspecific competition, collecting and trade, very low population density and inbreeding, population fragmentation, and apparent loss of genetic variation. Possible management and conservation measures are suggested.
Capula, M. & Aloise, G. (2011) -
In the present paper the occurrence of cannibalism, unusual predation on small reptiles [Hemidactylus turcicus (Reptilia, Gekkonidae)], and foraging on small mammal carrion [Suncus etruscus (Mammalia, Soricidae)] by P. siculus is reported.
Capula, M. & Aloise, G. (2024) -
Capula, M. & Ceccarelli, A. (2003) -
The genetic structure and heterogeneity of Podarcis sicula (Reptilia, Lacertidae) was studied in insular (Pontine Archipelago) and mainland (central and southern Italy) populations by means of allozyme electrophoresis at 20 presumptive gene loci. Genetic variability in the species is low and genetic subdivision is high. The highest values of percent polymorphism and heterozygosity were found in the samples from the southernmost part of Italy (Calabria). The insular samples from the Pontine Archipelago were characterized by loss of alleles and erosion of genetic variability. Population heterogeneity analysis carried out by the estimation of Wright`s F-statistics demonstrated substantial genetic differentiation among populations. F-statistics and genetic distance data show that genetic variation is distributed into three population groups. The first group includes the genetically very similar populations from central Italy and the Pontine Archipelago, the second includes the populations from Campania (southern Italy), the third comprises the populations from the southernmost part of the Italian Peninsula (Calabria). Based on the results of the allozyme data, the systematic status of the subspecies of P. sicula occurring in the studied areas is discussed.
Capula, M. & Chiantini, S. & Loy, A. (2001) -
Capula, M. & Chiantini, S. & Luiselli, L. & Loy, A. (2009) -
Landmark based geometric morphometrics was applied to the analysis of the cephalic scales of three phylogenetically related lacertid lizards (Podarcis raffonei, P. sicula, P. wagleriana) from some islands of the central Mediterranean area in order to assess the pattern of geographic variation and the phenetic relationships among and within the three species. Twenty nine homologous landmarks were recorded on the half configuration of the cephalic scales. To compare geometric and biometric patterns of variation and to evaluate any static allometry, seven biometric measurements were also recorded on the whole body. The three species significantly differ from each other in both shape and size of the skull. The shape of the Sopraocular and the Parietal scales appears to be highly diagnostic and species-specific. The analysis of intraspecific variation in shape of the cephalic scales indicates that P. sicula is the less variable species within the studied geographic area, whereas Podarcis raffonei is the most variable species both in size and shape. Podarcis raffonei is characterized by a divergent allometric pattern, likely related to the small population size and highly fragmented geographic range of the species.
Capula, M. & Cipolla, R.M. & Corti, C. & Nappi, A. (2008) -
Podarcis siculus is a lacertid lizard characterised by considerable variability in coloration pattern. In this species underside is usually whitish or greyish, always without dark spots. However, in some small island populations from Italy individuals can be allochromatic, i.e. completely black (melanic), bluish, or with a blue belly (e.g. the famous “blue lizard” – P. siculus coerulea - from Faraglione di Fuori and Faraglione di Mezzo islets, near Capri Island, Campania, southern Italy). It must be noted that, in some cases at least, melanic individuals can be observed also in continental areas (e.g. Roscigno, Campania, southern Italy). The evolutionary significance of the allochromatic patterns is still unclear, and some hypotheses were done to explain their origin. In this study several small island populations of P. siculus from Campania (southern Italy) were surveyed to point out the occurrence of allochromatic individuals. The islands and islets on which the investigations were carried out are the following: Camerota, Capri, Castello Aragonese, Castelluccia, Faraglione di Fuori, Faraglione di Mezzo, Gallo Lungo, Ischia, Licosa, Monacone, Nisida, Procida, Punta Pennata, Rovigliano, Scoglio di S. Anna, Vetara, Vivara. In addition, several continental areas were also surveyed in order to find out allochromatic individuals. We were able to find individuals with bluish underside on the following islands: Castelluccia, Camerota, Faraglione di Mezzo, Faraglione di Fuori, Licosa, and Monacone Vetara. On the Castello Aragonese Islet no allochromatic individual was found but one with a dark-grey underside. Individuals with bluish underside were also observed in some continental localities of the Salerno province (Capaccio, Marina di Camerota, Paestum, Palinuro, Punta Licosa, Sapri). The allochromatic individuals were often found together with individuals characterized by whitish underside. Based on present data and literature on P. siculus, allochromatic patterns seem to be relatively widespread in Campania, while are not known at all in populations from central and northern Italy. In Campania individuals with bluish or dark underside were observed both on small islands and on some continental areas. However, in continental areas the frequency of allochromatic individuals seems to be lower than on islands. It is noteworthy that the P. siculus populations from Campania, which are characterized by a high degree of phenotypic plasticity also in the pattern of the upper parts, have levels of genetic variability higher than those found in the morphologically low variable populations from central and northern Italy.
Capula, M. & Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. & Luiselli, L. (2014) -
In this paper some aspects of the thermal ecology of Podarcis raffonei , a lacertid lizard endemic to the Aeolian Archipelago (NE Sicily, yrrhenian Sea) which is on the verge of extinc-tion and is now considered as one of the most endangered lizard species in Europe, are provided. Field body temperatures were recorded on adult lizards from two islets (Scoglio Faraglione and Strombolicchio) which are separated each other by a long and deep sea channel and are charac-terized by different landscape. Te range of the body temperatures registered in P. raffonei is con-gruent with the field body temperatures known for some lacertid lizard species occurring on other Mediterranean small islands. Podarcis raffonei seems to adopt a strictly heliothermic strategy. Te studied lizard populations were not thermoconformers, as they do actively bask and keep their temperatures regardless of the environment thermal conditions. Despite thermal conditions were identical on the two islets, mean and median body temperatures were higher on Scoglio Fara-glione than on Strombolicchio Te difference in body temperatures observed in the investigated populations could be explained taking into account some operating natural selection factors (dif-ferent genetic and morphological characteristics of the studied populations; different geological, pedological and vegetation cover characteristics of the two islets; different morphology and sun exposure of the rocky slopes of the islets)
Capula, M. & Corti, M. (2010) -
Allozyme eledctrophoresis was used to study the distribution of genetic variation within and among mainland and insular populatrions of the lacertid lizard Podarcis muralis from western, southern and eastern Europe. Genetic variability in the species is low and genetic subdivision is high. The hihgest values of percent polymorphism and heterozygosity were found the the samples from two Tyrrhenian islands (Elba Island, La Scola Islet). The occurrence of higher levels of genetic variability in insular populations is probably because these populations inhabit marginal environments cheracterized by temporal-ecological instability. In these environments high heterozygosity levels can be preserved after colonization events, unless founder populations are so small that bottlenack effects occur. The genetic heterogeneity analysis demonstrates a certain amount of genetic differentiation among local populations of P. muralis, with a relatively high level of genetic subdivision. Allozyme data show that genetic variation in P.muralis is distributed into two major population groups: the first includes the closely related samples from Spain and SW France, the second the genetically recognizable samples from Germany, Italy, and Greece. The average genetic distance between the two groups is relatively high (Nei’s D = 0.059), with D ranging from 0.043 to 0.100.
Capula, M. & Lapini, L. (1991) -
Capula, M. & Lapini, L. & Capanna, E. (1989) -
The chromosomes of Lacerta horvfthi have been studied by means of conventional, C-banding, and silver-NOR techniques. The karyotype of this species, characterized by 36 acrocentric macrochromo- somes, lacks the typical pair of microchromosomes shared by all other lacertid lizards. It is hypothesized that the microchromosomes could have been translocated to the large elements of the karyotype. The occurrence of such a rearrangement in the chromosome complement ofL. horvhthi underlines its isolation from the other species of the subgenus Archaeolacerta. The C-banding analysis evidences the existence of a female sex heteromorphism in which the W-chromosome has the same shape and size of the Z, but differs from it in being completely heterochromatic. The nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) are located on a pair of medium size chromosomes in subtelomeric position, where the standard Giemsa-staining reveals secondary constrictions.
Capula, M. & Lisio, L. de & Cianfrini, C. & Florio, M. di & Invasile, D. & Ramacciato, V. & Loy, A. (2008) -
Several investigations and an Atlas project (Progetto Atlante degli Anfibi e Rettili del Molise) were carried out from 2003 to 2007 to assess the occurrence and distribution of Amphibians and Reptiles in the Molise region (Central Italy). Information on the distribution of the species in the study area, habitat types, seasonal activity and other aspects of the species biology were collected and recorded in a database. Data concerning the species occurrence were mapped on a 10x10 km square basis, according to a UTM grid system, such as those utilized in other Italian atlas projects devoted to the analysis of flora and fauna. The study area (Molise) was divided into 71 squared units. About 379 records (1 record = 1 species per 1 locality) were collected to define the present distribution of the 31 species which resulted to occur in the study area to date. All species are native to the area but one, i.e the red-eared turtle (Trachemys scripta), which was introduced in recent years and is native to North America. Amphibians were represented by 13 species: five salamanders (Salamandra salamandra, Salamandrina perspicillata, Lissotriton italicus, L. vulgaris, Triturus carnifex) and eight anurans (Bombina pachypus, Bufo bufo, Pseudepidalea cfr. viridis, Hyla intermedia, Rana dalmatina, R. italica, Pelophylax bergeri, P. kl. bispanicus). Green frogs are represented by a synklepton, i.e. a pair of taxa formed by an hybridogenetic species (Pelophylax kl. bispanicus) and a parental one (P. bergeri). Reptiles consisted of 18 species: four turtles (Eurotestudo bermanni, Emys orbicularis, Trachemys scripta, Caretta caretta), seven lizards (Hemidactylus turcicus, Tarentola mauritanica, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis, P. sicula, Chalcides chalcides) and seven snakes (Hierophis viridiflavus, Coronella austriaca, Zamenis longissimus, Elaphe quatuorlineata, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Vipera aspis). Based both on literature and biogeographic data Coronella girondica, Zamenis lineatus, and Vipera ursinii also probably occur in Molise, but these species were not recorded to date and their occurrence should be confirmed by further investigation.
Capula, M. & Lo Cascio, P. (2006) -
Capula, M. & Lo Cascio, P. (2008) -
Capula, M. & Lo Cascio, P. (2011) -
Capula, M. & Luiselli, L. (1977) -
Capula, M. & Luiselli, L. (1990) -
Capula, M. & Luiselli, L. (1992) -
Die beiden Autoren beschreiben kurz die bisherige Situation, daß die Zauneidechse bislang nur von einem Punkt in NW-Italien (Piedmont) und von zwei Punkten in NO-Italien (Friuli) nachgewiesen wurde. Aufgrund von Artenschutzgedanken werden die genauen Fundorte jedoch verschwiegen. Die Autoren haben von den jeweiligen Fundorten zusammen drei (3) Tiere gefangen und als Belegexemplare an italienische Museen gegeben. Damit ist die Zauneidechse als Faunenelement Italiens abgesichert. Für taxonomisch-systematische Fragestellungen hingegen wäre es nach Einschätzung des Rezensenten sicherlich notwendig, eine höhere Zahl von Individuen in den Sammlungen zu haben. Die gefangenen Individuen entsprechen der Nominatform Lacerta agilis agilis, wobei die Autoren offenlassen, welche diagnostischen Merkmale Berücksichtigung fanden. Im zweiten Abschnitt der Arbeit folgt eine kurze Beschreibung des Lebensraumes und seiner Vegetation (Nartedum strictae-Assoziation), wobei die Tiere an Wegrändern und Brachen mit Buschvegetation mit günstiger Sonnenexposition vorkommen. Den hier vorgestellten Funden ist gemeinsam, dass sie alle in mehr oder minder direktem Zusammenhang mit bereits bekannten Vorkommen in den Nachbarländern Frankreich, Österreich und Slowenien stehen. Entsprechend erwarten die Autoren weitere Funde an der Nordgrenze Italiens. Das diese Vermutung richtig ist, bestätigte sich bereits in einer Publikation in der Salamandra (27/3: 181-186), die während der Drucklegung der hier besprochenen Arbeit erschien.
Capula, M. & Luiselli, L. (1993) -
Capula, M. & Luiselli, L. (1994) -
Abstract Some aspects of community ecology in a lizard assemblage composed of three sympatric and diurnal species (Algyroides fitzingeri, Podarcis tiliguerta, Chalcides ocellatus) were studied in a Mediterranean habitat of central Sardinia. The three lizards were characterized by significantly different mean body size. There was no spatial overlap between the smallest species (A. fitzingeri) and the largest one (C. ocellatus), while there was a certain amount of overlap between P. tiliguerta and each of the other two lizards. The three species preyed on a wide variety of invertebrates, but mainly on insects. Food niche breadth was higher in P. tiliguerta, and this could be related to the higher microhabitat heterogeneity of this lizard in the study area. Food niche overlap was high between Chalcides ocellatus and Podarcis tiliguerta, but low between Algyroides fitzingeri and C. ocellatus. Although further data are required before any firm conclusion can be drawn, the results of this investigation seem to indicate that (i) interspecific competition among the three lizards is rather limited, due both to food and spatial resource partitioning, and (ii) the lizard community is organized through the ecological needs of each species.
Capula, M. & Luiselli, L. & Bologna, M.A. & Ceccarelli, A. (2002) -
nvestigations carried out in the Aeolian Islands (off north-east Sicily) during 1989–99 gathered evidence strongly indicating that the endemic Aeolian wall lizard Podarcis raffonei is close to extinction. Competitive exclusion by the lizard Podarcis sicula, which has been introduced by man, habitat degradation, and possibly reduced genetic variability and inbreeding, were the main causes for the decline of the species. For the Aeolian wall lizard to recover from its threatened status and to prevent further decimation of populations, collection and trade in the species should be prohibited, and an education programme for local people should be promoted. An integrated project involving habitat protection and captive breeding is needed to secure the species in the wild for the future.
Capula, M. & Luiselli, L. & Filippi, E. & Ceccarelli, A. (2002) -
A capture-mark-recapture procedure was used to study the demography of a population of Algyroides fitzingeri inhabiting a mountain grassy area of central Sardinia. This population was artificially enclosed to avoid emi/immigrations. The A. fitzingeri individuals from this area were morphologically and ecologically different from other conspecifics studied to date: they had a lighter dorsal colouration, exhibited totally terrestrial habits, and used prostrate funiperus bushes to hide in. Adult sex-ratio was close to 1:1, but females were more numerous and attained larger size than males. More than 80% of the marked males and females was recaptured, and the frequency of recapture was similar in the two sexes. The apparent density was 86 adults per hectare.
Capula, M. & Luiselli, L. & Rugiero, L. (1993) -
Capula, M. & Nascetti, G. & Bullini, L. (1990) -
Capula, M. & Nascetti, G. & Lanza, B. & Bullini, L. (1987) -
Capula, M. & Nascetti, L. & Bullini, L. (1988) -
Capula, M. & Nascetti, L. & Capanna, E. (1982) -
The chromosome complements of Podarcis filfolensis, P. tiliguerta, P. wagleriana and Archaeolacerta bedriagae were analyzed in bone marrow somatic mitoses as well as in meiotic diakinesis. All four species are characterized by the typical lacertid karyotype consisting of 38 chromosomes (36 acrocentric macrochromosomes plus 2 microchromosomes). Adaptive stability of karyotypes, as a result ofa canalization process of chromosomal evolution, and absence of complex social behaviour promoting population subdivision and inbreeding, are the evolutionary factors presumably correlated with the remarkable conservativeness of karyotype observed within the family Lacertidae.
Capula, M. & Rugiero, L. & Luiselli, L. (2009) -
The ecological correlates of dorsal colour pattern polymorphism were studied along the transition zone between two supposed subspecies ( = colour pattern types in this article) of the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, in a hilly area of Latium, Central Italy. In this area two supposed subspecies, i.e. P. m. brueggemanni and P. m. nigriventris, are known to occur. Lizards were studied along 500 m long transects within three different habitat types, i.e. wood, wall, and bushy pasture. A total of 279 adult lizards (154 males, 125 females) were examined. Three colour morphs were observed at each site, i.e. brueggemanni type (brown-green upper parts), nigriventris type (black-green upper parts), and a colour morph intermediate between the two. The distribution and abundance of brueggemanni and nigriventris colour morphs was clearly non-random across habitat types: brueggemanni was abundant in walls and bushy pastures, and nigriventris in wood. To explain the observed pattern we tested the hypothesis of a differential predation exposure by the various colour morphs in different habitats by analysing the differences between colour morph frequencies of lizards with intact tail and with broken/regenerated tail in the various habitats of the study area. Our analysis would not support the differential predation-risk hypothesis, because the frequency of individuals with broken tails was very similar in the three colour morphs among different habitats.
Capula, M. & Scalera, R. (1998) -
Caputo, V. (2012) -
Caputo, V. & Biase, A. de & Baldanza, F. (1986) -
The authors have studied the Amphibians and Reptiles of the Fer-riere Valley (Amalfi, SA), a locality near Amalfi on the Sorrentine Peninsula, where flows the torrent Ceraso. This area is peculiar from a climatic point of view, favou-ring the survival of Woodwardìa radicans (L.) Sm (Filicopsida, Blechnaceae), a relict of the Tertiary period. The following species were found: Salamandra salamandra, Salamandrina ter digitata, Bufo bufo, Rana dal mat ina, Rana graeea, Tarentola mauri-tanica, Lacerto viridis, Podarcis sicula, Coluber virìdiflavus, Elaphe longissima, Elaphe quatuorlineata, Natrix natrix, Vipera aspis. The phytogeografìc and faunistic impor-tance of biotope is emphasized.
Caputo, V. & Giovannotti, M. & Olmo, E. (2008) -
Caputo, V. & Guarino, F.M. (1992) -
Cara, A. (1872) -
Carazo, P. (2010) -
Carazo, P. & Font, E. (2006) -
Carazo, P. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. (2001) -
Female mate choice based on male phenotypic traits is controversial in lizards, particularly in territorial species. In this study, we examine female choice of male scent marks in a territorial lacertid lizard (Podarcis hispanica) in which scent marks have been shown to signal male size (i.e., an important determinant of competitive ability in this species). Females were simultaneously exposed to three naturalized 4 m2 choice areas bearing: (1) no scent marks (i.e., control), (2) scent marks of large males, and (3) scent marks of small males. Although female lizards preferentially associated with scent marked choice areas, we found no evidence that females chose territories marked by large males. Furthermore, in response to experimentally induced dusk at the end of choice trials, females preferentially took shelter in refuges scent marked by small males. Our results suggest that, like males in this species, females are able to use male scent marks to assess the body size of resident territorial males, but do not show a preference for territories occupied by large males.
Carazo, P. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. (2007) -
Recent studies have stressed the role of scent marks as signals potentially mediating competitor assessment. According to this view, receivers may use scent marks to derive information about the costs of exploiting a given area, but few studies have directly addressed this hypothesis. One of its main predictions is that scent marks should reflect a signaller`s competitiveability. We simulated the situation faced by an intruding male when entering the scent-marked territories of rival males of varying competitiveability to test predictions about the role of scent marks in alizard, Podarcishispanica. We report that males were attracted to areas marked by males of similar or higher competitiveability (i.e. larger size), but not to areas scent marked by males of lower competitiveability, and that this preference disappeared towards the end of the breeding season. Our results show that (1) male lizards can assess rivalcompetitiveability (i.e. rival size) on the basis of scent marks alone, (2) scent marks do not function as chemical barriers to deter intruders, and (3) male response to marked areas varies throughout the breeding season, suggesting a shift in the cost-to-benefit balance of entering a scent-marked area. We propose that male assessment of rivalcompetitiveability may function as an indirect assessment mechanism of territory resource quality in this species, and thus that scent marks may convey information not only about costs but also about the benefits of exploiting a scent-marked area.
Carazo, P. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. (2008) -
True individualrecognition (TIR), the ability to recognize conspecific individuals on the basis of identity cues, is required for the evolution of several social traits (e.g. the maintenance of dominance hierarchies). However, knowledge about the distribution and functional significance of TIR is scant in some vertebrate groups, such as reptiles. In this study we used a functional modification of a habituation–dishabituation paradigm to investigate the existence and adaptive significance of TIR in a territorial lizard (Podarcishispanica, Lacertidae). Males discriminated between individual rivals of similar characteristics (e.g. size, weight, familiarity) solely on the basis of their scentmarks. Males also remembered the spatial location of scentmarks and subsequently behaved more aggressively towards rival males that consistently marked in the core than on the periphery of their experimental terrarium. Together, these results suggest that, in this species, scentmarks function to identify the potential threat posed by each individualneighbour, allowing resident males to allocate their aggressive behaviour accordingly. Our findings challenge the simplistic and commonly held view that ‘dearenemy’ phenomena in lizards are exclusively based on familiarity asymmetries, and support an alternative threat level hypothesis in which TIR may be more important than previously acknowledged.
Carazo, P. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. (2011) -
Female mate choice based on male phenotypic traits is controversial in lizards, particularly in territorial species. In this study, we examine female choice of male scent marks in a territorial lacertid lizard (Podarcis hispanica) in which scent marks have been shown to signal male size (i.e., an important determinant of competitive ability in this species). Females were simultaneously exposed to three naturalized 4 m2 choice areas bearing: (1) no scent marks (i.e., control), (2) scent marks of large males, and (3) scent marks of small males. Although female lizards preferentially associated with scent marked choice areas, we found no evidence that females chose territories marked by large males. Furthermore, in response to experimentally induced dusk at the end of choice trials, females preferentially took shelter in refuges scent marked by small males. Our results suggest that, like males in this species, females are able to use male scent marks to assess the body size of resident territorial males, but do not show a preference for territories occupied by large males. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved).
Carbayo, J. & Martin, J. & Civantos, E. (2019) -
Understanding how habitat type and deterioration may affect parasitism is important to assess human-induced environmental change effects on host-parasite dynamics. In this study, we examined inter-population differences in parasites load in a Mediterranean lizard, Psammodromus algirus (Linnaeus, 1758). We analyzed prevalence and intensity of infection by blood parasites and ectoparasites in two populations separated by a 400-m elevational gradient and with different habitat types that also differed in the degree of human alteration. We also compared data obtained in the same populations after ten years lapsed to assess whether there have been temporary changes in parasites load. Results showed that prevalence and intensity of blood parasites were higher in the deteriorated lowland holm oak forest population than in the well preserved upland oak forest. In contrast, the prevalence and intensity of infection by Ixodes ticks was higher in the upland oak forest population. Individuals from the lowland population were in poorer condition. Intensities of infection by blood parasites and ectoparasites have decreased significantly from 2005-2006 to 2016 in both populations. Our results suggest that inter-population differences in parasite load may be explained by differences in habitat characteristics. This study contributes to identify which ecosystems and habitats are most sensitive to prevalence and intensity of infection by parasites.
Carbeiro, D. (2012) -
Ecological factors are known to limit species geographical distribution. Lacertids, being ectotherms, are likely to be most influenced by thermal conditions but factors such as environmental humidity or species interactions may also be preponderant. Podarcis liolepis and P. muralis are lacertid species overlapping at a small scale in north-eastern Iberian Peninsula (IP). While P. liolepis ranges from the north-east of IP to southern France, P. muralis has a wide range across Europe but in IP is restricted to the north. Knowing and understanding the factors most likely to shape this pattern is the aim of this study. This has been assessed through three methodological approaches. Ecophysiological experiments in the laboratory were conducted to assess the thermal and hydric requirements of P. liolepis and P. muralis (manuscript I). In a sympatry area, field records of body temperature were taken and the influence of environmental factors on body temperatures were assessed (manuscript II). Correlative predictive models were performed in order to assess the putative current and future geographic distribution of both species (manuscript III). The ecophysiological data previously obtained was integrated in the interpretation of the modelling data. The three approaches revealed that environmental humidity and not temperature is the main abiotic factor constraining these species. However, evidence of possible interaction between both species was detected in terms of thermal physiology since the preferred body temperature of P. liolepis shifted upwards in the presence of P. muralis. Combining this information with the prediction for future scenarios of climate changes, it is expected that P. liolepis may be the most affected if climate gets to hot and dry since it would shift northwards and would disappear from some areas due to aridification. On the other hand, P. muralis’ range is likely to decrease but little fragmentation would occur.
Carbonero, J. & Garcia-Diaz, P. & Ávila, C. & Arribas, O. & Lizana, M. (2016) -
seven species of the rock lizard genus Iberolacerta are represented on the iberian Peninsula. These lizards are considered to be under threat of extinction, with Iberolacerta martinezricai (ArribAs, 1996), being one of the most endangered reptiles in Europe. There is however, lack of knowledge about its conservation status, distribu- tion and ecology. The authors’ surveys in 2007 and 2008 aimed at clarifying the distribution status of the species in Central spain, where 63 uTM squares (1 km x 1 km in size) were sampled and the density of the lizards, their distribution and habitat preferences studied. Iberolacerta martinezricai was detected in 23 out of the 63 uTM squares (36.5 %), with densities ranging from 25 to 50 lizards/ha. The statistical analysis revealed that the presence of the rock lizards was associated with altitude, lichen cover and rock/boulder size. Accordingly, the species is restricted to rocky slopes of the Peña de Francia mountain range. The results clearly indicate that the range of the species is highly restricted, that the habitats occupied are very specific, and that the population size is low compared with other species of the genus Iberolacerta. based on these findings, the species is categorized as Critically Endangered (Cr) under the criteria of the international union for the Conservation of nature (iuCn).
Cardona Ribas, C. (2018) -
La innovació pedagògica ha estat un dels punts claus de l’educació en els darrers temps. Recentment, es parla sobre metodologies que tot i ser postulades temps enrere, no han eclosionant fins fa poc a les notres aules. Es tracta de l’Aprenentatge basat en Projectes (ABP), el qual es troba enfocat a canviar la tradicionaliat de les aules per una educació innovadora i centrada en els subjectes, on es cerca que ells mateixos siguin els propis creadors del seu aprenentatge. Actualment, són pocs els centres que treballent l’ABP, però iniciatives com la de l’IES Sa Blanca Dona, on personalment he tingut el plaer de formar-hi part, mostren un model d’organització i superació de barreres a seguir per a la resta. Un total de 13 projectes, són els que aquest centre ha desenvolupat a les aules de 1r i 3r de l’ESO; on les conseqüencies que en deriven, els han animat a seguir apostant per la seva implementació. El document presenta una proposta on es posen en pràctica els diversos argument treballats quant a la metodologia tan en aquest document, com en el Màster en Formació del Professorat. La proposta, es basa en l’estudi d’una de les espècies endèmiques més representatives de les Pitiüses, les sargantanes (Podarcis pityusensis), i la major amenaça actual a la que es troben sotmeses, les espècies d’ofidis invasores. En resum, fomentar la cosciència sobre el medi ambient que ens rodeja i divulgar l’ABP, són dues de les peces clau d’aquest document.
Cardone, A. (2012) -
The effects of the fungicide methyl thiophanate (MT) on testis were determined in the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) using morphological and molecular analyzes. Three experimental trials were performed: an acute test using six doses, a two-week chronic test, and “ecotoxicological” exposure (3 weeks). The minimal lethal dose (LD50) of pure MT, reached by the acute test, was 100 mg/kg body weight. Testicular histopathology of surviving animals showed a reduced lumen and several multinucleated giant cells 24 h after injection followed by large decreases in spermatogonia (72%) and secondary spermatocytes (58%) and a loss of spermatids and sperms 7 days after. In the chronic test, a dose equivalent to 1/100 of LD50 was injected on alternate days. Complete shutting of the lumen and a great decrease in spermatogonia (82%) were observed. In “ecotoxicological” exposure, achieved with a commercial MT compound, testis showed a decrease in primary spermatocytes (20%) and several vacuoles. An increase in germ cell apoptosis was observed in all experimental groups using TUNEL assay. A decrease in expression of androgen and estrogen receptor (AR and ER) mRNAs was seen in all experimental groups. The reduction in AR and ER mRNAs was correlated to exposure time. Indeed, in the “ecotoxicological” treatment (30 days), the decrease reached 82 and 90% for AR and ER mRNAs, respectively. These data strongly indicate that treatment with MT, damaging the seminiferous epithelium and decreasing steroid receptor expression, might render exposed lizards infertile.
Cardone, A. (2015) -
The insecticide imidacloprid was evaluated under laboratory conditions in the adult male Italian wall lizards (Podarcis sicula) to assess its potential toxicity. By an acute oral test, LD50 was 503.76 mg/kg. Changes in spermatogenesis, plasma sex hormone levels and androgen and oestrogen receptor mRNAs were analysed by subchronic test and simulated environmental exposure. 15-days subchronic test, in which lizards were orally dosed on alternate days at 0, 10, 50, 100 mg/kg bw, showed a dose-dependent changes of testicular architecture and an increase of apoptotic processes. In a 30-days simulated environmental exposure spermatogenesis was arrested at secondary spermatocyte level and only few primary spermatocytes were TUNEL-positive. In all experimental groups imidacloprid was able to decrease both the level of sex hormones and the steroid receptor mRNAs. The results demonstrate that imidacloprid affects reproduction function of male lizards therefore precautions must be taken to minimize the harmful effects of this compound
Cardone, A. & Capriglione, T. & Odierna, G. & Redi, C.A. & Garagua, S. (1990) -
Cardone, A. & Comitato, R. & Bellini, L. & Angelini, F. (2002) -
Recently, increasing importance has been attached to the role of estrogens and their receptors in male reproduction, since they have been found to be abundant in the male reproductive tract. In the lizard, Podarcis sicula, a seasonal breeder, estrogens seem to be involved in the regulation of testicular activity. Particularly, it has been hypothesized that the block of spermatogenesis and the complete regression of the epididymis and other secondary sexual characters (SSCs) in autumn might be due to high estrogen levels. To investigate the role of estrogens in the reproductive process of male lizards, we utilized Fadrozole ((AI) [4-(5,6,7,8-tetrahydroimidazole [1,5-a] pyridin-5-yl)-benzonitrile monohydrochloride] (CGS 16949A)), a nonsteroidal inhibitor of aromatase, the enzyme involved in the aromatization of androgens to estrogens, evaluating its effects on plasma sex-hormone release, spermatogenesis and epididymis morphology. For this purpose, adult male lizards, captured during the autumnal recrudescence, were intraperitoneally injected with 0.5 g and 5 g/g/body weight of AI for 15 and 30 days. In the animals treated with the higher AI dose, estrogen levels decreased if compared to the control groups, whereas androgen levels increased. Furthermore, histologic sections of testes and epididymes showed that the 30-day treatment with AI-induced spermatogenesis resumption with release of sperms into the large lumen of the seminiferous tubules, and the epididymes appeared more developed with moderately secreting columnar canal cells. Therefore, it is proposed that failure of spermatogenesis in autumn might be due to high estrogen levels.
Cardone, A. & Russo, L. & Angelini, F. & Ciarcia, G. (2001) -
In reptiles, many researches have been conducted to explain testicular function and its control. Using biochemicam and/or immunological studies various neuropeptides, as gonadotrophin-releasing hormones (GnRHs), ß-endorphin (ß-EP) and neuropeptide tyrosine (NPY) have been identified in the gonads of the lizard Podarcis sicula Raf.. The aim of the present study was to explore, by an in vitro system, the influence of these neuropeptides on testicular endocrine activity during different periods of the sexual cycle of the lizard Podarcis sicula. The results have demonstrated that in the lizard testis the various GnRH forms (chicken I, chicken II, and salmon) do not significantly modify then total amount of produced testosterone but influence the intra- and extra-testicular partitioning of the hormone. The ß-EP does not participate in intratesticular paracrine mechanisms involving the regulation of androgen secretion, but could act only at pituitary level to regulate the seasonal reproductive activity. On the contrary, NPY might be able to stimulate locally androgen release from the lizard testis. These data suggest that these substances, by acting as paracrine and/or autocrine factors, might modulate the testicular endocrine function in adult lizard Podarcis sicula.
Cardone, A. Ciarcia, G. & Angelini, F. (1994) -
Cardone, A. Ciarcia, G. & Angelini, F. (1995) -
Carletti, S. & Spilinga, C. (2006) -
Carlino, P. & Pauwels, O.S.G. (2016) -
We present the first vouchered report of a population of the genus Algyroides from Lecce Province in southeastern Italy, about 750 airline km S-SE of the only known Italian popu- lation in the northeastern provinces of Gorizia and Trieste. The population is morpho- logically referable to the Blue-throated Keeled Lizard, A. n. nigropunctatus. It is possibly introduced from Albania or western Greece through maritime traffic.
Carmichael, S.W. (2022) -
Lizards can famously shed their tails when under threat from pursuing predators. The discarded tail, often wiggling, can distract the predator, allowing the lizard to survive the encounter. Self-amputation is known as autotomy and is a common defense strategy in lizards, salamanders, crustaceans, spiders, and other animals. This raises the important question of how does a lizard retain its tail during normal activities that can be vigorous? The tail of a lizard affects its ability to run, leap, mate, and escape the next predator, so losing the tail is a costly sacrifice. The precise mechanism that provides the lizard with the advantage of retaining the tail in situations that are not life-threatening, yet readily shedding it when threatened, has recently been addressed in an elegant study by Navajit Baban, Yong-Ak Song, and others.Baban et al. studied the tails of three common lizards, two species of geckos (Hemidactylus flaviviridis and Cyrtopodion scabrum, of the Gekkonidae family), and one from the family of “true” lizards (Acanthodactylus schmidti, of the Lacertidae family). In the laboratory the tail of the live animal was passively autotomized, and the event was captured by high-speed (3,000 frames per second) video. The proximal and distal exposed surfaces of the tail (the fracture plane) were immediately preserved in formalin and prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). There are several potential facture planes in the tail, allowing for portions of the tail to be sacrificed, depending on the need. This is made possible by the fact that the lizard tail is not one entity, but assemblies of segments connected via the fracture planes.
Carneiro, D. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Llorente, G.A. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Carneiro, D. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Llorente, G.A. & Carretero, M.A. (2015) -
In ectotherms, environmental factors shape the distribution of species mediated by ecophysiological constraints such as thermal requirements and water stress. Species with different distributions along an environmental gradient are expected to show contrasting responses in thermal-gradient and water-stress lab experiments. We examined basic thermal and hydric physiological traits throughout the day in two related lizard species with different, but partially overlapping, distributions in the Iberian Peninsula: Podarcis liolepis (abundant but mostly restricted to northeastern Iberia) and P. muralis (restricted in Iberia but widespread across Europe). We expected P. liolepis to opt for higher preferred body temperatures and have lower water loss rates as compared to P. muralis. Surprisingly, results revealed no differences in preferred body temperatures between species or sexes. Conversely, interspecific differences in the temporal profiles of water loss were found. Results suggest that water availability rather than thermal environment shapes the biogeographical patters of both species.
Carneiro, D. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Zagar, A. & Pafilis, P. & Carretero, M.A. (2013) -
The ecology of the lacertids genus Algyroides is still poorly known. Nevertheless, all four species recognized, A. nigropunctatus, A. moreoticus, A. fitzingeri and A. marchi, display some degree of restriction in distribution and habitat use when compared to other Mediterranean genera. As for other ectotherms with low dispersal abilities, in absence of other forces, such spatial restrictions are expected to be linked to ecophysiological constraints. Here, we test such prediction by focusing on two crucial features of reptilian life, thermal preferences and water loss. We performed two consecutive experiments in order to determine preferred body temperatures (Tp) and water loss rates (Wl). Tp of 5-10 adult males by species was hourly monitored in a photothermal gradient for a ten-hour period. Subsequently, Wl was estimated by placing the same specimens in sealed chambers with silica gel and weighing them hourly during a 12-hour period. Both Tp and Wl differed in mean and time profiles across species, which were arranged into two groups regarding their ecophysiology. Namely, under standard conditions, A. nigropunctatus and A. fitzingeri selected for lower temperatures but lost less water than A. moreoticus and A. marchi, although the existence a trade-off between Tp and Wl was unclear. While significant size variation between all species exists (A. fitzingeri and A. marchi being dwarfed), neither SVL nor body mass accounted for the differences in ecophysiology recorded. It is, hence, concluded that intrinsic (size/shape-free) differences in thermal and hydric physiology (high Tp and Wl) may be responsible for the decrease of the ranges and habitats available suffered by A. moreoticus and, mainly, by A. marchi. Such process is likely to be linked to the spread of Mediterranean climate during the Pliocene.
Carneiro, D. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Zagar, A. & Pafilis, P. & Carretero, M.A. (2017) -
We assessed whether ecophysiological requirements are consistent with the environmental traits within the current ranges in a relictual lizard group, Algyroides, composed of four species with restricted and disjunctive distributions. We considered temperature, precipitation and their seasonal profiles, and focused on the preferred body temperature (Tp) and the evaporative water loss (EWL). The ranges of all four species differed in environmental traits. The two geographically more restricted species followed divergent patterns: A. moreoticus inhabits hot and climatically buffered areas, and A. marchi occupies cold seasonal environments. Tp and EWL also differed among species following a geographical grouping: A. nigropunctatus (Slovenia) and A. fitzingeri (Sardinia) selected for lower Tp and lost less water than the southern species A. moreoticus (Peloponnese) and A. marchi (Southern Spain). Tp and EWL were correlated at species level but not at individual level within species. Results suggest that the current distribution of Algyroides species partly reflects their ecophysiology, with water ecology taking precedence over thermal ecology as constraining factor. By unravelling the environmental factors limiting the distribution of species, ecophysiology may provide directions for conservation, predicting the degree of vulnerability to climate change.
Carneiro, L.A. & Paulo, O.S. & Crespo, E.G. (2001) -
Carnero Hernandez, A. (1980) -
Carnero, A. & Perez Padron, F. (1977) -
Carnevali, O. & Mosconi, G. & Angelini, F. &Limatola, E. & Ciarcia, G. & Polzonetti-Magni, A. (1991) -
Plasma vitellogenin and 17β-estradiol concentration were determined during the annual reproductive cycle of the female lizard Podarcis s. sicula Raf. living around Naples. Plasma vitellogenin was purified from estrogenized males for characterization and to raise specific immune serum. Using ELISA, plasma vitellogenin titers were determined in relation to ovary weight; plasma 17β-estradiol was measured by RIA method. Native vitellogenin was present as two polypeptide bands: α and β. The electrophoretic patterns, studied in normal male and estrogenized male and female, showed vitellogenin to be a protein present in female and in estrogenized male plasma but not in normal males. Lizard monomeric VTG, determined by SDS-PAGE, was about 200 kDa. Correlations between seasonal ovarian weight variations and plasma vitellogenin and 17β-estradiol suggest that ovarian development in Podarcis depends on plasma vitellogenin synthesis, which in turn relies on plasma estradiol levels. The two ovulatory waves observed in this study coincided with the two peak values of plasma vitellogenin and 17β-estradiol.
Caro, M. de & Indolfi, P. & Iodice, C. & Spagnuolo, S. & Tammaro, S. & Motta, C.M. (1998) -
In Podarcis sicula specialized follicle cells send reserve materials to the previtellogenic oocyte via intercellular bridges. Immediately before the onset of vitellogenesis this transferring becomes particularly massive so that the cell volume significantly reduces, meanwhile in the nucleus the morphological alterations typical of apoptosis appear. To clarify why these follicle cells are not simply fully resorbed by the oocyte and to determine whether their DNA is discarded or recycled, we carried out a series of morphological and biochemical investigations. The finding that large macromolecular scaffolds are formed and that these are able to retain the DNA until it is extensively cut by two different endonucleases suggests that regression of the follicle cells is programmed and that the fate of their DNA is strictly controlled. Following its genetical neutralization via fragmentation, the DNA is apparently recycled by being transferred into the oocyte via the intercellular bridges, that, in fact, remain open until the very late stages of cell regression. The small DNA fragments reaching the oocyte cytoplasm would not interfere with meiosis completion but could significantly contribute to the stock of reserve materials to the advantage of the growing oocyte and/or developing embryo.
Caro, T. & Evans, O. & Fitzherbert, E. & Gardner, T.A. & Howell, K. & Drewes, R. & Shaffer, H.B. (2011) -
Carpio, a.J. & Figueruas, M. & F.S. Tortosa (2017) -
Dune systems are the most degraded ecosystems of the entire European coast, and human activity on the Mediterranean coast of Spain has caused dramatic transformation. In Torredembarra (Tarragona, Spain), a population of spiny–footed lizards (Acanthodactylus erythrurus) inhabits the few remaining natural dunes and vegetation patches where wildlife coexists with intensive tourism activities. Our aim was to know whether walkways installed across the dunes were affecting the mobility of the spiny–footed lizard. We compared the mobility of marked lizards in two areas with a similar habitat, one with and one without a walkway. We found that the walkway reduced the distances between consecutive resightings, affecting juveniles more than adults. We conclude that the walkway may affect social interactions in the species.
Carracedo, J.C. & Soler, V. (1982) -
Carranza, S. (2010) -
In this talk I will present the recent advances in the systematics, biogeography and evolution of the family Lacertidae with especial emphasis on the tribe Lacertini. These hypotheses are based on very complete phylogenetic trees inferred using both mitochondrial and nuclear data. According to the results the Lacertini can be assigned to 19 monophyletic units, all of them diagnosable using morphology (mainly scalation, osteology and cytogenetics) and therefore rec- ognized as independent genera. Both mtDNA and nuclear data indicate that Teira and Scelarcis are sister taxa and recent results suggest a very close association between Dinarolacerta and Algyroides but for most of the other genera it is very dif cult to infer any robust phylogenetic re- lationship, despite using a lot of information, suggesting that speciation within the Lacertini was probably very sudden. The Lacertidae probably arose in the European area, with the Gallotiinae later reaching Northwest Africa and the Canary Islands, and the ancestor of the Eremiadini invad- ing Africa in the Miocene. The Lacertini spread through much of their present European range and diversi ed perhaps largely by repeated vicariance, producing the ancestors of the present mainly small-bodied genera. These genera then underwent often modest speciation, although in most of the cases the molecular phylogenies show that the real diversity of the different genera has been greatly underestimated and needs to be revised. The large-bodied lizards Timon and Lacerta and the small-bodied Podarcis and Zootoca spread more widely and Takydromus invaded more dis- tant areas like East Asia. Overall, European Lacertidae show a pattern of repeated spread, often accompanied by restriction of previous groups. The molecular data also shows that Atlantolacerta andreanskyi belongs in the Eremiadini and may occupy a basal position there. Its phylogenetic position may help to clarify how the Eremiadini colonized Africa.
Carranza, S. (2016) -
Islands are very important hotspots of biodiversity and provide premier settings for studying the evolutionary and ecological processes that have resulted in such unique biotas. Unfortunately, in most cases the lack of a similar taxonomic and ecological knowledge of the associated continental faunas prevents any comparison between continental and island faunas. During the last years we have been trying to improve our knowledge on the systematics, biogeography and evolution of Arabian reptiles, including the endemic reptile fauna of the Socotra Archipelago and continental related taxa. This archipelago, situated in the western Indian Ocean, is a case example of an ancient continental fragment, a block of Precambrian Gondwanaland with a long biogeographic history. With 93.5% of the 31 species and 41% of the 12 genera being found nowhere else in the world, reptiles constitute the most relevant vertebrate group of the Socotra Archipelago and an excellent model to study in depth the role of historical and contemporary factors (i.e., island size and geographic isolation, biogeographic history and ecological disparity) in the origin and diversification of this unique faunal assemblage. In this talk I will review the work that we are doing on the reptiles of the Socotra Archipelago and continental Arabia to assess their origin and real diversity, to test the relative role of adaptive processes in the diversification of Socotran reptiles and compare the patterns of diversification and phenotypic differentiation of continental and Socotran sister groups to see whether island and continental species differ in their dynamics of diversification and eco- phenotypic evolution. Despite being the size of Mallorca, the endemicity and habitat specialization of the reptiles of Socotra is much higher than in any other Mediterranean Island, the possible causes of these differences will be analyzed.
Carranza, S. & Arnold, E.N. & Amat, F. (2004) -
West European Rock lizards, Lacerta (Iberolacerta) have small widely separated ranges in highland areas. Mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences corroborate the monophyly of the group and show it is not closely related to any of the other Rock lizards with which it was formerly placed in Archaeolacerta, an assemblage for which there is no evidence of clade status. L. (Iberolacerta) consists of four main units: L. (I.) horvathi of NW Croatia and neighbouring regions; the Pyrenees species, L. (I.) bonnali, L. (I.) aranica and L. (I.) aurelioi; L. (I.) cyreni of the Iberian Sistema Central, with distinctive populations in the Sierras de Béjar,Gredos and Guadarrama; and L. (I.) monticola of the Serra da Estrela of Central Portugal and NWSpain, this unit also contains L. (I.) cyreni martinezricai of La Peña de Francia, W. Spain and a distinctive population in the Montañas de Sanabria. L. (Iberolacerta) has persisted in some mountain ranges for at least 4.2±1.4Ma and may have been restricted tomountains by competition from Wall lizards (Podarcis). Its clade status shows it has lost range extensively and has produced few external branches since its initial fragmentation. In contrast, Podarcis diversified about the time L. (Iberolacerta) fragmented, producing a series of widespread lineages that have persisted until the present time. The mainly European subfamily Lacertinae, to which both L. (Iberolacerta) and Podarcis belong, diversified rapidly 13–9 Ma ago, probably largely replacing other lacertid lizards of earlier origin. As another round of replacement started at approximately 9 Ma ago with the spread of Podarcis, this may be a recurrent phenomenon in the evolution of some lizard communities.
Carranza, S. & Arnold, E.N. & Thomas, R.H. & Mateo, J.A. & López-Jurado, L.F. (1999) -
Carranza, S. & Harris, D.J. & Arnold, E.N. & Bastia, V. & Gonzales de la Vega, J.P. (2006) -
Aim To determine genetic substructuring within the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus. To compare levels of variation across a geological barrier, the Strait of Gibraltar, and to compare this against the known age of the barrier using a molecular clock hypothesis. To compare the effect of the barrier within this species with previously published data from other organisms. Location The Iberian Peninsula and North Africa. Methods Partial sequences from the mitochondrial cytochrome b, 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes were obtained from 101 specimens belonging to the subfamily Gallotiinae and used in this study. The data set was aligned using ClustalX and phylogenetic trees produced using both maximum-parsimony and maximum-likelihood methods. Maximum likelihood estimates of divergence times for the combined data set (12S + 16S + cytochrome b) were obtained after discovery of lineage rate constancy across the tree using a likelihood ratio test. Results Psammodromus algirus contains divergent eastern and western mtDNA clades within the Iberian Peninsula. The western clade has northern and southern lineages in Iberia and one in North Africa. This phylogeographical pattern indicates that the lizard invaded North Africa after the opening of the Strait, presumably by natural rafting. Main conclusions As in several other species, current patterns of genetic diversity within P. algirus are not directly related to the opening of the Strait of Gibraltar. Widespread sampling on both sides of the barrier is necessary to determine its effect on species in this area accurately.
Carranza, S. & Xipell, M. & Tarroso, P. & Gardner, A. & Arnold, E.N. & Robinson, M.D. et al. (2018) -
In the present work, we use an exceptional database including 5,359 records of 101 species of Oman’s terrestrial reptiles together with spatial tools to infer the spatial patterns of species richness and endemicity, to infer the habitat preference of each species and to better define conservation priorities, with especial focus on the effectiveness of the protected areas in preserving this unique arid fauna. Our results indicate that the sampling effort is not only remarkable from a taxonomic point of view, with multiple observations for most species, but also for the spatial coverage achieved. The observations are distributed almost continuously across the two-dimensional climatic space of Oman defined by the mean annual tempera- ture and the total annual precipitation and across the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of the multivariate climatic space and are well represented within 17 out of the 20 climatic clusters grouping 10% of the explained climatic variance defined by PC1 and PC2. Species richness is highest in the Hajar and Dhofar Mountains, two of the most biodiverse areas of the Arabian Peninsula, and endemic species richness is greatest in the Jebel Akhdar, the highest part of the Hajar Mountains. Oman’s 22 protected areas cover only 3.91% of the country, including within their limits 63.37% of terrestrial reptiles and 50% of all endemics. Our analy- ses show that large areas of the climatic space of Oman lie outside protected areas and that seven of the 20 climatic clusters are not protected at all. The results of the gap analysis indi- cate that most of the species are below the conservation target of 17% or even the less restrictive 12% of their total area within a protected area in order to be considered adequately protected. Therefore, an evaluation of the coverage of the current network of protected areas and the identification of priority protected areas for reptiles using reserve design algorithms are urgently needed. Our study also shows that more than half of the species are still pending of a definitive evaluation by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Carrascal, L. M. Diaz, J. A. & Cano, C. (1989) -
Habitat selection of Psammodromus algirus and P. hispanicus was studied along a successional vegetation gradient in Southern Spain. The two species select areas with a high cover of herbs and bushes at ground level and at a height of 10 cm above ground. Whereas P. algirus avoids sandy substrates and selects wooded areas, P. hispanicus, which does not enter the forest, occupies areas with a denser cover of low shrubs and herbs. Therefore, and despite their coincidence in the centre of the habitat gradient and hence their high overlap in habitat use, both species appear to be segregated, with P. hispanicus having a narrower spatial niche than P. algirus. The observed differences in habitat selection are discussed in the light of differences in morphology, reproductive constraints and predator avoidance. We conclude that interspecific competition plays a negligible role in the habitat segregation of the two species.
Carrascal, L.M. & Diaz, J.A. (1989) -
We studied summer activity patterns and thermoregulation in the Mediterranean lizard Psammodromus algirus in a holm oak wood in Central Spain. The circadian rhythm curve was bimodal, with a pronounced peak after sunrise, a minimum at noon and a second lower peak in the afternoon. Increased activity in the morning could be explained by insolation levels, whereas the midday low was caused by the rise in temperature. There was a strong positive correlation between body temperature and both air and ground temperatures. Nevertheless, there was no significant correlation between body and air temperatures when the effect of radiation was removed, which was done by considering only individuals in the shade at high temperatures. Activity showed a bell-shaped relationship with body and air temperatures, with maximum activity at 24.5°C (air temperature) and 31.4°C (body temperature). The spatial distribution pattern of P. algirus (selection of sunny areas and distance to the vegetation edge) reflects the environmental temperatures that are optimal for activity; the lizards show a strong preference for sunny patches when air temperature is lower than the optimum. We conclude that heliothermy is the only viable thermoregulation pattern in Mediterranean forest environments, with heat conduction playing a negligible role.
Carrascal, L.M. & Diaz, J.A. & Cano, C. (1990) -
Carrascal, L.M. & López, P. & Martin, J. & Salvador, A. (1992) -
This paper presents an observational and experimental study of the basking behaviour and heat exchange rate of the montane lizard Lscerta monticola. The results obtained by these procedures were coupled in order to understand behavioural mechanims promoting effective thermoregulation at high altitudes. Heating rate was higher when body size was smaller, and substrate temperature and sun rays incidence angle were higher. The lizards cooled faster when body size and substrate temperature were lower, and when the body temperature of the lizard going into shadow was higher. Time exposed to sun and mean duration of basking periods were longer early in the morning, while bask frequency increased through the morning. Our results suggest that time devoted to basking is mainly obtained by regulating bask duration. Lizards obtained the necessary time for heating by means of long basking periods. Mean travel distance per minute and distance to the nearest refuge increased from early morning to midday. These behavioural variables were tightly correlated with the expected heating rate of individuals. Body size affects thermoregulatory behaviour as well as locomotor activity. Juvenile lizards, with small body mass and high surface-to-volume ratios, were subjected to faster heating and cooling rates, basked more frequently than adults (but during shorter periods), and devoted more time to locomotion than adults. The thermoregulatory behaviour of L. monticola is the result of the combination of shuttling heliothermy by basking and the exploitation of thermal opportunities offered by patches in shade through thermal exchange with the substrate.
Carrasco, T.H. & Fernández Cardenete, J.R. (2014) -
Carreras-Barranco, A. & Sassoé-Pognetto, M. & Fernández, B.R. & Martinez del Mármaol, G. (2021) -
Carreras-Martí, D. et al (2007) -
Carretero, M.A. (1988) -
Carretero, M.A. (1989) -
Carretero, M.A. (1992) -
Psammodromus hispanicus is a small lacertid lizard which ranges all the Iberian Peninsula, excepting the north and the Pyrenean Mountains (BARBADILLO 1987) and the SE of France (FRETEY 1987). It is nominally protected by Spanish law (Boletin Oficial del Estado 56:4999-5002,6.3.1981). Recent studies have analyzed its ecological trends and natural history (PASCUAL & PEREZ-MELLADO 1987, 1989, POLLO & PEREZ-MELLADO 1988,1989,1990, CARRETERO & LLORENTE, in press). It occurs mainly in the Mediterranean garigue or in more open areas, around patchy dense vegetation (ARNOLD 1987, CARRASCAL et al. 1989). It is common to see animals moving quickly from one plant (20-30 cm high) to another. In the NE of the Iberian Peninsula, the most dense populations are located in the coast, particularly in sandy areas. The development of the Herpetological Atlas of Catalonia (unpublished data) and Languedoc-Rousillon (GENiEZ & CHEYLAN 1987) have allowed us to prove that the range of distributionof this species is not continuous. At the present, French and Spanish populations are not connected (Fig. 1) but they were probably a continuumin the recent past (FELIXpcrs. com.). The northernmost Spanish population is located in Pals Beach (UTM 31TEG25) where P. hispanicus and its congeneric species P. algirus live together. The south- ernmost French records are close to the Spanish frontier. The intermediate zone (Alt Empordi region) has some favourable sites to be occupied, such as the coastal dunes between Muga and Fluvi^ rivers (Fig. 2). P. algirus is present there and has been previously studied (CARRETERO & LLORENTE 1989). The psammophilous vegetation (Theucrium, Echinophora, Ammophila, Pan- cratium} and the habitat structure are quite similar to other coastal locations of the Spanish Psammodromus. Indeed, a record near that site was published at the beginning of this century (MALUQUER 1916). The above facts have induced us to believe that the species has become extinct recently. Probably the tourist industry (destruction of psammophilous vegetation near beaches) is responsible. Now, this zone belongs to the Pare Natural dels Aiguamolls de 1`Empordil created in 1985 and it receives complete protection. Since the creation of the park, the possibility of rcintroducing the species has been planned with two consecutive objectives: 1.- Management: re-creation of a stable populationof Psammodromus hispani- cus. 2. - Ecology: employment of this reintrodnotion as a tool to know how both Psammodromus species use the same ecological resources. Only the first point is being carried out and it is reported here. The next step was to decide when and where to obtain the animals. The reproduction of the species has been previously studied in the NE of Spain (CARRETERO & LtORENTE in press). This lizard has a one-year cycle (Fig. 3). Young are born from July to September. They grow up very fast, becoming adults during the next spring. There is no winter diapause period. The life is very short. Only 5% of the adult lizards can breed in the second ye.ir. Two clutches have been detected in large females and they are reflected in the ovarian cycle (Fig. 4).
Carretero, M.A. (1993) -
Carretero, M.A. (1994) -
Carretero, M.A. (1995) -
Carretero, M.A. (1997) -
Carretero, M.A. (2002) -
Colour pattern and its relation to sex, size and season were investigated in three coastal populations of Psammodromus algirus from NE Spain. Eight pattern variables, as well as body size and reproductive parameters, were recorded for 430 specimens. Results show that yellow head pattern was present in both males and females and depended on body size and locality. Furthermore, its seasonal variation was associated with reproductive activity in males. Orange infralabials appear almost exclusively in adult males. Blue ocelli constitute a potential size signal in intraspecific interactions, especially in males. The attainment of sexual maturity modified tail colour (antipredatory) and dorsolateral stripes (cryptic). Bright spots on hindlimbs varied between sites. Colour pattern is interpreted as a trade-off between different selective pressures including crypsis and intraspecific interactions. Most pattern variation is due to body size differences and only secondarily to sexual dimorphism. A hypothesis invoking differences in social system is proposed to explain the striking differences between these populations and those from Central Spain.
Carretero, M.A. (2003) -
Carretero, M.A. (2004) -
Lacertids are the dominant group of lizards throughout the Mediterranean Basin. Their role in food web transfer of matter and energy from arthropods and other small invertebrates to birds and mammals constitutes a major function within Mediterranean ecosystems. For many years, prey consumption by lacertids was thought to be almost indiscriminate, not much more than a byproduct of habitat use. However, increasing evidence does not support this passive view. Analyses of prey availability have revealed active prey selection/avoidance in several species. Others show an internal tendency (i.e., historical constraints) to consume specific animal items (ants, clumped prey) or plant matter (seeds, nectar, pollen, leaves). Behavioural experiments showed that lacertids not only identify different prey types by both visual and chemical cues but also modify their feeding behaviour integrating past experiences. Furthermore, size, sex, reproductive state, body condition, tail loss and probably other lizard features are relevant for feeding ecology. However, less attention has been devoted to abiotic factors such as temperature and humidity. More experimental studies of the influences of competitors, predators and parasites on diet are needed. Even though it is controversial, optimal foraging theory provides a conceptual background for future studies. The evolutionary history of the various lacertid lineages, which constrains their morphology and physiology and eventually produces exaptative traits, is to be considered as well. Finally, methodology in field sampling, lab work and statistical analysis needs to be developed. Recommendations are given as to when and where to sample, which compartment should be analysed, which is the appropriate sample size, how to assess trophic availability, which statistical descriptors should be used and how they should be compared.
Carretero, M.A. (2006) -
Reproductive timing is one of the most critical issues for lacertids inhabiting temperate regions where favourable conditions are restricted seasonally. Cycles of gonads and associated lipid reserves represents the manifestation of the discontinuous reproductive mode. Although lacertids seem tom use both temperature and photoperiod to adjust their reproductive clocks to the environmental conditions, these cues seem to act at different stages of the cycle. Within species, interindividual, interpopulational and interannual variation have been documented. Thermal seasonality, changing between sites and years, determines not only the length of the reproductive season but also the intensity of variation for several reproductive parameters. Except in those species/populations with extremely short reproductive activity, lacertids are rather asynchronus, large adults starting reproduction later than small ones. In contrast, the end of the breeding period is less variable and probably associated with photoperiod. Prior to all these factors, lipid storage of excess energy is necessary condition for beginning reproduction. Lipids peak in late summer or early autumn, are not depleted in winter and are consumed during the reproductive season. Males spend reserves earlier than females in the activities related with breeding and recover them soon after since mixed-type spermatogenesis distributes energy costs along a prolonged period. Only spermiogenesis is highly variable in time depending on the species/population although previous classifications based on it are simplistic. Females mainly behave as capital breeders investing lipids in developing a first (or unique) clutch but may act as income breeders for the subsequent clutches if any. The degree of iteroparity depends on the same factors but just within the species limits. Some of the patterns observed are, nevertheless, uncorrelated with abiotic environment and may reflect other pressures. Theoretically any influence able to provoke food storage would delay reproduction independently of climate conditions. In some cases, traits could be historical deriving from pressures acting in the past. Long egg retention and viviparity are strong constraints since they prolong single reproductive events preventing its repetition even when environmental conditions would allow it. Moreover, thermophile species evolved under mild conditions are unable to start reproduction when and where other more cold-adapted species do. On the other hand, insular lacertids enlarge the reproductive period in comparison with their continental equivalents living under similar climate regimes but with different demographic pressures. Finally a biogeographic scenario for the evolution of reproductive cycles in the whole family is proposed.
Carretero, M.A. (2008) -
Lacertids are considered conservative in terms of their thermal physiology. Namely, whereas their temperatures in the field vary according to the environment, their preferred body temperatures (Tp) when free of thermal constraints remain similar within species even if under different climate regimes. In contrast, phylogenetically distant lacertid lineages sharing the same habitats may display distinct Tps more related with their biogeographic origins. The evolutionary limits of this so-called thermal rigidity remain, nevertheless, undefined. Here, the variation of Tp is analysed across the Iberomaghrebian Podarcis clade (P. bocagei, P. carbonelli, P. vaucheri and P. hispanica sensu lato). For this monophyletic group of closely related forms, some still not formally described, the knowledge of their phylogenetic relationships, divergence times and palaeoecological scenarios is now considerably robust. A total of 229 adult lizards belonging to 11 lineages were exposed to a thermal gradient and temperatures were recorded at 9 time intervals within the period of activity. Once the effects of diel rhythms, size and pregnancy were excluded, variation in Tp was recorded between some of the forms. Lineages diverging during the Pleistocene displayed similar Tps whereas sister taxa separated since the Pliocene show significant differences even if current ranges overlap. The most basal lineages in the phylogeny selected for different temperatures even if sister taxa but approached others not directly related to them. Apparently, divergence times higher than 3 mya are able to promote Tp shifts in this species complex. Such results are discussed in relation with the evolutionary history of this group.
A critical review of the evolutionary biology of Iberian and North African lizard members of the genus Podarcis (Lacertidae) based on phylogeny, phylogeography, morphometrics, behavior, ecology and physiology is presented. The Iberomaghrebian region is inhabited by at least 12 different evolutionary lineages that group into a monophyl- etic clade (except Podarcis muralis). In contrast to the current taxonomy, the saxicolous ‘Podarcis hispanica’ is paraphyletic with respect to Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis carbonelli, two currently recognized species. Nodes in the phylogenetic tree are deep, resulting from old divergences, clearly preceding the Pleistocene. Nevertheless, more recent range changes as a result of glaciations are also evident. The most plausible evolutionary scenario for this group indicates both vicariant and dispersal events. Although parapatry between lineages is the rule, sympatry and even syntopy are frequent, but usually between ground-dwelling and saxicolous forms. Contacts between forms with similar habitat use are rare and local. Morphological distinctiveness between lineages has been demonstrated, indicating historical constraints. However, other characters have repeatedly evolved under similar environmental pressures independently of the evolutionary lineage. Strong sexual dimorphism derives from sexual selection and is attained before sexual maturity, although developmental restrictions exist. Variation between popu- lations is also important and derives from local variation in both natural (habitat, climate) and sexual (density) selective pressures. Evidence for short-term changes has already been found, particularly in insular populations. Reproductive isolation between syntopic forms and partner recognition are based on male–male competition and on visual and chemical recognition of females by conspecific males. Despite this ancient diversification, most forms maintain a degree of reproductive compatibility. Hybridisation may occur, but is limited, and there is evidence of selection against hybrids. The ecological analysis presented here does not support exploitative competition, but rather behavioral interference between forms. Ecomorph classification of lineages suggests character displacement between those with extensive range overlap. Finally, a critical assessment of the specific status of all lineages is provided and directions for further research are suggested.
Carretero, M.A. (2010) -
Carretero, M.A. (2012) -
Infrared thermometers (IRT) are gaining popularity in herpetological thermal ecology due to their several advantages compared to contact thermometers (CT). To evaluate their accuracy in small lacertrids, lab parallel measurements using IRT and CT are compared for a set of 52 adult lizards belonging to four different Podarcis forms, including males, pregnant and non-pregnant females, exposed to a photohtermal gradient. Skin temperature was measured with a IRT and cloacal temperature with a CT at 10 time intervals, completing 520 paired measurements. Models of the relations were constructed using standardised major axis (SMA) regression. As expected, IRT and CT measurements were significantly correlated but detertmination coefficients were only moderate, IRT values being systematically higher. Moreover, the SMA regression lines deviated from slope 1 and intercept 0 in all cases, revealing a non-isometric bias; IRT tended to give progressively higher readings than CT for higher temperatures. Results provide methodological insights for further studies on thermal ecology of lacertids.
Carretero, M.A. (2018) -
Carretero, M.A. & Albornà, P.X. & Llorente, G.A. (2007) -
Carretero, M.A. & Andrade, P. & Pinho, C. & Afonso, S. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Bellati, A. & Pellitteri.Rosa, D. & Bosakova, Z. & Brejcha, J. & Feiner, N. & Marsik, P. & Paupério, F. & Rubin, C.-J. & Sabatino, S. & Salvi, D. & Soler, L. & Walerman, O. & While, G.M. & Uller, T. & Font, E. & Andersson, L. & Carbeiro, M. (2018) -
Carretero, M.A. & Argana, E. & Duarte, R. (2013) -
Antipredator strategies in lacertids vary across and within species. Previous investigations have documented divergent strategies in both escape and recovery behaviour between syntopic species, between conspecific populations inhabiting different habitats and between colour morphs and size classes within the same population. Here, we evaluate the degree of plasticity in the different components of the antipredatory behaviour by comparing two conspecific populations under divergent disturbance regimes but otherwise environmentally similar. We examined the lizard responses under direct attack from a predator (simulated by the researcher) in two populations of Podarcis carbonelli from geographically close (1200 m) sites from Doñana National Park (SW Spain). In both cases, lizards mainly occupied wooden passes on sandy soil allowing park visitors to reach fauna observatories but, while one (El Acebuche) was heavily frequented (40,000-50,000 visitors/year) the other (Ribetehilos) was not (<500). Field experiments were carried out in both sites during days with suitable conditions within a period with optimal temperatures but out of the reproductive period (November 2010) to exclude factors other than site, sex and size class. We recorded variables describing lizard traits (sex, size class), environment (microhabitat, refuge) and behavioural responses for 128 observations (63 for El Acebuche and 65 for Ribetehilos) throughout random walking routes. Lizards from the most disturbed population (El Acebuche) were observed closer to their refuges than those from the less disturbed one (Ribetehilos), regardless their sex, size class and habitat features. While the first were also observed on hotter substrates and males in general escaped into hotter refuges, thermal environment was insufficient to explain the behavioural differences found. By contrast with previous studies comparing species or colour morphs, no variation between sites for either escape distance, recovery time or recovery distance was recovered despite the good samples sizes. Results reinforce previous claims that individual lizards may respond to different levels of disturbance in a directional way. However, they also indicate that some components of the antipredator behaviour are more plastic that others. This should be confirmed by further experimental work.
Carretero, M.A. & Arribas, O. & Llorente, G.A. & Montori, A. & Fontanet, X. & Llorente, C. & Santos, X. & Rivera, J. (1991) -
Carretero, M.A. & Ayllón, E. & Llorente, G. (2009) -
Carretero, M.A. & Ayllón, E.& Sillero, N. & Godinho, R. & Harris, D.J. & Hernández-Sastre, P.L. (2008) -
The Schreiber’s Lizard, Lacerta schreiberi, is a large lacertid with Atlantic affinities endemic to Western Iberia. Whereas in the Northwest the area of occupation is continuous and populations are abundant, the Southern populations become rare and isolated, restricted to some Atlantic spots surrounded by Mediterranean, unsuitable environments. Because these Southern isolates harbour a considerable part of the genetic diversity of the species and are extremely vulnerable at mid-term, determining their conservation status is prioritary. Here, a multidisciplinary approach based on field censuses, GIS modelling and population genetics was used to asses the conservation status of the populations from Montes de Toledo (South-Central Spain). Local populations were censused by transect methods, tissue sampling of selected individuals were taken and locations were recorded with a GPS. In the lab, samples were genetically characterised using a battery of seven autosomal microsatellites and two SNPs in nuclear loci. Results indicated that in this region the species range is fragmented in subisolates strictly associated to mountain streams surrounded by well conserved riverine vegetation. The potential distribution model calculated by MAXENT indicates areas with high precipitation, low temperature and deciduous forests. The species presence was not recorded or not recently replicated in some of those areas. Population sizes are small (5.23 indiv./hour/observer). The three isolated demographic nuclei were genetically differentiated (with private alleles) but kept high genetic diversity suggesting that isolation is not contemporary but postglacial, old enough to have produced genetic drift. The category Endangened (EN) (A 2bc B 1, 2cde) for these populations is recommended. Subsequent guidelines for conservation management are provided.
Carretero, M.A. & Bartrolet, E. (2000) -
Carretero, M.A. & Cao, J. & Gomes, V. & Sillero, N. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Megia-Palma, R. (2021) -
Carretero, M.A. & Ceacero, F. & García-Muñoz, E. & Sillero, N. & Olmedo, M.I. & Hernández-Sastre, P.L. & Rubio, J.L. (2010) -
The results of a monitoring Project on the Spanish Algyroides (Algyroides marchi) carried out by the Asociación Herpetológica Española (AHE, Spanish Herpetolo- gical Society) in 2009 are exposed. This species is an Iberian endemism restricted to the Prebetic Mountains (Alcaraz, Segura and Cazorla). It belongs to a genus evolved in humid forest environments whose members occupy relictual areas across the Mediterranean Basin. The aims of the project were updating the kno- wledge on the distribution range, producing models of potential distribution, esti- mating the population abundance, evaluating the degree of genetic diversity, determining the main menaces and extracting conclusions for conservation from such information. The field sampling carried out between April and September, together with an exhaustive literature review, provided 559 records for 45 UTM 10x10 squares, with 224 exact localities, 162 of them with abundance index and 84 with tissue samples. Considerable progress in the chorological knowledge is observed not only due to new localities within range previously known but also to the detection of peripheral populations, especially in the east. The distribution models indicate that, at large scale, the species depends on mountains, low temperatures, high precipitation and good forest cover, whereas, at small scale, it is constrained by terrain roughness and closure minimising radiation and evaporation. The analysis of the mitochondrial markers show a high genetic diversity structured into three lineages separated since the Early Pleistocene. The first one is highly diverse and stable being distributed along the main axis of the range. The second one occupies a small area in the North western border of the range and has recently expanded. The third one extends throughout several isolated nuclei of the eastern border and is the result of a more recent historical retraction. Nevertheless, nuclear markers indicate current or recent gene flow between these lineages. The information either picked up during the field sampling or from the lite- rature indicate that the menaces for the species are habitat disturbance (forest fires, tracks, stream canalisations, touristic and energetic infrastructures) at local level and climate change (warming and precipitation decrease) at general level. Although most of the species’ range falls within protected areas, this has neither prevented the incidence of the factors above mentioned nor released the Spanish Algyroides from the risks derived from global warming. Further in- tensive studies on demography and population genetics will provide stronger evidences on the realistic size of the occupation area, its fragmentation and the declining of the populations.
Carretero, M.A. & Cortada, Á. & Damas-Moreira, I. & Zagar, A. & Rato, C. & Perera, A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Garcia-Munoz, E. (2014) -
Carretero, M.A. & Fonseca, M.M. & Garcia-Muñoz, E. & Brito, J.C. & Harris, D.J. (2011) -
The phylogenetic affinities of Acanthodactylus beershebensis, a highly endangered lacertid lizard endemic to the Neguev (Israel), were assessed using mtDNA markers. Fragments of 12S and 16S rRNA were analysed and compared with already published sequences of Acanthodactylus. Results corroborate the taxonomic placement of A. beershebensis as a member of the A. pardalis group but place it within a polytomy at the same phylogenetic level as other (unnamed) African populations. This pattern of high but poorly structured genetic diversity, previously observed for other Acanthodactylus complexes, has been suggested to derive from the climatic instability of North Africa and the Middle East during the humid and dry periods of the Pleistocene as well as dune migrations. In conservation terms, if A. beershebensis is to be prioritised, then other populations of the A. pardalis group inhabiting North Africa would deserve a similar status, making their species definition urgent. These results highlight the need for considering phylogeny when establishing conservation priorities.
Carretero, M.A. & Galán, P. & Salvador Milla, A. (2015) -
Carretero, M.A. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Argana, E. & Freitas, S. & Corti, C. & Arakelyan, M. & Sillero, N. (2016) -
Several Caucasian rock lizards of the genus Darevskia are well-known to reproduce parthenogenetically and have a hybrid origin. While one or more of these all-female parthenogens may monopolize local lizard communities, they may also occur in syntopy with bisexual members of the genus. In several localities, effective reproduction between bisexual and parthenogenetic Darevskia has been reported based on lizard intermediate morphology and karyology (3n, 4n) but frequency of such heterospecific matings is still unknown. In a mixed Darevskia community from Kuchak (Armenia) constituted by two parthenogens (D. armeniaca and D. unisexualis), one bisexual species (D. valentini) and their putative backcrosses, we indirectly quantified the reproductive interactions through the inspection of copulation marks in females. A total of 114 adult females were randomly collected, photographed and later inspected for inguinal marks. Females were measured (SVL) and their marks were ranked twice from 0 (no scars) to 3 (≥ 3 scars). The lizard determination and ploidy was ensured by microsatellites analysis. All female types displayed copulation marks with frequencies varying from 61% in the parthenogenetic D. armeniaca to 30% in the bisexual D. valentini; remarkably, 7 out of 11 (64%) backcross females also had marks. In the most abundant D. armeniaca, the prevalence and intensity of copulation marks increased with size, just as expected for normal female lacertids. These results indicate that copulation of parthenogenetic Darevskia in mixed communities with bisexual species is not an isolate event, thus reinforcing previous suggestions of massive reproductive interaction in syntopy. Evolutionary perspectives of this phenomenon are discussed.
Carretero, M.A. & García-Muñoz, E. & Argaña, E. & Freitas, S. & Corti, C. & Arakelyan, M. & Sillero, N. (2018) -
Several Caucasian rock lizards of the genus Darevskia of hybrid origin are known to reproduce parthenogenetically. Local communities can be composed exclusively of parthenogens, though syntopy with bisexual members of the genus may occur. In some localities, reproduction between bisexual and parthenogenetic Darevskia has been previously reported based on lizard intermediate morphology and karyology (3n, 4n). However, the frequency of such heterospecific matings remains unknown. We indirectly quantified the reproductive interactions through the inspection of copulation marks in females in a mixed Darevskia community from Kuchak (Armenia) composed of two hybrid parthenogens (D. armeniaca and D. unisexualis), one bisexual species (D. valentini) and their putative backcrosses. A total of 139 adults were randomly collected and photographed. Females were later measured (SVL), inspected for inguinal marks and ranked from 0 (no scars) to 3 (≥ 3 scars). The lizard species and ploidy determination was ensured by a parallel microsatellite analysis. Sex-ratio in the community was extremely biased due to the high abundance of parthenogenetic females. All female types displayed copulation marks with frequencies varying from 80% in D. valentini to 64% in D. armeniaca. Remarkably, 7 out of 11 (64%) backcross females also showed marks. In the most abundant D. armeniaca, the prevalence and intensity of copulation marks increased with body size, just as predicted for polygynous female lacertids. These results indicate that copulation between parthenogenetic and bisexual species in Darevskia mixed communities is common and driven by sexual selection, thus reinforcing previous suggestions of reproductive interaction in syntopy. Evolutionary implications of these findings are discussed.
Carretero, M.A. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Sillero, N. & Caecero, F. & Rubio, J.L. (2010) -
Carretero, M.A. & Jorge, F. & Llorente, G.A. & Roca, V. (2014) -
Diet and helminth fauna were analysed in the lizard Gallotia atlantica (Squamata: Lacertidae), the smallest species of this genus endemic to Lanzarote and Fuerteventura (Canary Islands), in an attempt to confirm previous claims of rela- tionships between these ecological traits in this genus. A total of 70 lizards belonging to the subspecies atlantica (central southern Lanzarote), laurae (northern Lanzarote) and mahoratae (Fuerteventura) were examined. Compared with other Gallotia, the helminth fauna was impoverished, particularly in Fuerteventura, where the absence of larval cestodes suggests low predation pressure. Diet was omnivor- ous, the plant fraction (73.03–84.26%) included seeds and fruits while the animal fraction was quite diverse, at least in Lanzarote. Contrary to other Gallotia, the intestinal Pharyngodonidae nematodes were all typical of carnivorous reptiles. An individual association between the complexities of helminth communities and diet reinforces previous findings in other Gallotia species suggesting functional relation- ships between parasites and prey items inside the digestive tract.
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (1990) -
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (1991) -
The reproduction of a population of Psammodromus hispanicus was studied on a coastal sand area of NE Spain and compared with other populations. Sexual maturity is reached in the first spring, and there are no subadults. Reproductive activity occurs in March to July. The beginning of reproduction depends on the spring temperature increase but the end is produced by an endogenous rhythm. Eggs size, clutch size and length of the hatchlings are very close to those of other populations. The major difference is that a second clutch can be laid by the largest females. This is the first such record in the species.
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (1993) -
The basic morphometry and its ecological correlates are analyzed in a lizard community consisting of three Mediterranean lacertid spccies (Psammodromus algirus, Acanthodactylus erythrurus and Podarcis hispanica) living in a coastal sandy area from NE Spain. Specimens studied were 156, 68 and 44 respectively. In the three species, femoralia and vcntralia arc useful characters to distinguish sexcs even in juveniles. Moreover, adult males and females show shape differences whose origin is discussed. The inter- and intraspecific variations found in shape and size agree reasonably well with the degree of ecological divergence between groups.
Variation in the reproductive cycle of two populations of Acanthodactylus erythrurus living in coastal sandy areas of the NE extreme of its range was analyzed. This species exhibits strong influence of historical factors in its reproductive traits: vernal spermatogenic cycle, short incubation, K-selection, and high egg size variation. The populations studied are more similar to others from the Mediterranean coast than to those from Central Spain. In comparison with the latter, reproductive season is longer, adult sizes are smaller and sexual dimorphism is reduced. A second clutch can be laid when the reproductive season is long enough. Nevertheless, phenology in this species is less variable than in other Mediterranean Lacertidae. Since no evidence of suboptimal conditions was found in any population, it is concluded that factors other than reproductive ones may have restricted the range of this species in NE Spain.
The basic morphometry of two Mediterranean lacertid lizards, Psammodromus algirus and Acanthodactylus erythrurus, is analyzed using 133 and 87 specimens respectively. In both species, femoralia and ventralia are useful characters to distinguish sexes even in juveniles. Moreover, adult males and females show shape variation whose origin is discussed. Interspecific differences in shape and size are also showed and related to ecological features.
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (1995) -
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (1997) -
The variation in the reproductive cycle of three populations of the lizard Psammodromus algirus living in coastal sandy areas of NE Spain was analyzed. In contrast with those in continental climates, they showed evidence of reproductive stress: the reproductive season began sooner and was longer. Moreover, body size was smaller and sexual size dimorphism did not arise. Only the end of the breeding period was relatively constant. Nevertheless, these different reproductive traits seem to follow a common trend. In general, no important reproductive differences were found among the three coastal areas. Females laying two clutches have been detected in one locality. Clutch size was correlated with female size. The high phenological plasticity of this species is associated with its wide ecological niche.
Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Psammodromus algirus.
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (1998) -
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (2001) -
In many studies on lizard diet, the content of the complete digestive tract is analysed as a whole assuming that the differences between stomach and intestine are irrelevant. The hypothesis that stomach represents the rewal diet more accurately and uniformly than intestine is tested using a coastal population of the lacertid Psammodromus hispanicus as a model. Some types of preys, especially Coleoptera, were misrepresented in the intestine. Diversity tended to be either larger of lower in the intestine than in the stomach for most individuals. Estimations of population diversity were less precise and values were lower, especially for small samples (<40). Morerover, the smallest and the largest preys were underestimated which reduced the range of prey size variation. The improverishment in small, soft preys and the undermeasurement of large preys in the intestine are due to the digestive process that decreases the possibilities of identification differentially. So, the intestine content can be considered as biased when compared with the stomach one. Results from intestine should be interpreted with caution and it is recommended that these sources of information should not be mixed. Finally, some other recommendations and predictions are added to describe the diet of the lizards.
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. & Montori, A. & Santos, X. (1999) -
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. & Santos, X. & Montori, A. (1995) -
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. & Santos, X. & Montori, A. (2001) -
The Ibiza Wall Lizard (Podarcis pityusensis), a Balearic endemism, has been observed in its original habitat to feed not only on Arthropoda but also on plants. The diet of an introduced population living in the city of Barcelona (continental Spain) was analyzedin order to test the feeding habits of this species excluding the insular effect. As in the islands, the clumped prey (Homoptera and Formicidae) represented the bulk of the diet (>50%). The trophic use of these taxa changed drastically throughout the year but not among classes (especially both sexes) which differed only in the secondary preys. The prey size depended on the lizard size and the trophic diversity was high except in winter. The plantportion was limited (5.3%) but it was completely absent in the syntopic Podarcis hispanica. Seeds, flowers and other plant matter were mainly eaten by adults in summer. This trophic strategy is considered to be a derived feature which has probably evolved several times under insular conditions. However, conversely to other non-balearic Podarcis, its persistence in Podarcis pityusensis after a translocation to a continental locality indicates some kind of historical constraints. Nevertheless, this species still remains highly adaptable showing that the endogenous influence is only partial.
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. & Santos, X. & Montori, A. (2002) -
Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. &/ Montori, A. & Santos, X. & Francesch, J. (1999) -
Carretero, M.A. & Lo Cascio, P. (2011) -
Carretero, M.A. & Lo Cascio, P. & Corti, C. & Pasta, S. (2010) -
The insular lizard microcommunity inhabiting the Lampione islet (Pelagian islands, S Italy) is constituted by a skink (Chalcides ocellatus) and a lacertid lizard (Podarcis filfolensis). Their diet composition (taxa and sizes)) during spring-early summer were analysed based on 131 faecal pellets, which could be individually assigned to a lizard species and sex (only in P. filfolensis). The diet of C. ocellatus was biased towards hard prey of medium to large sizes (Coleoptera, insect larvae). Podarcis filfolensis displayed a more diverse prey spectrum including Formicidae, Coleoptera, insect larvae and minor prey not consumed by the skink, but restricted to the small items; differences between sexes were minimal. Both species were partially herbivorous. Evidence of cannibalism was found for P. filfolensis and C. ocellatus preyed upon P. filfolensis. Pseudocommunity analysis does not support community structure but instead points to convergence in trophic strategies between both species due to insular conditions. Evolutionary history, rather than resource partitioning, seems responsible for the moderate trophic overlaps recorded and even may explain why both species coexist under the harsh conditions of this tiny islet.
Carretero, M.A. & Marcos, E. & De Prado, P. (2006) -
Podarcis hispanica is, in fact, a complex of several forms and ecophysiological traits previously investigated in one of them my be no longer generalisalbe to the others. Intraspecific variation of preferred temperatures (Tp) was analysed in a population of the NE form of P. Hispanica and compared with data on other forms coming from the literature. Adult lizards were collected in May, measured (SVL), weighed and exposed to a thermal gradient at nine time intervals. Tp changed with sex (males > females), size (positive correlation with body mass) and, more weakly, with time of day (early morning > mid morning and mid-day > afternoon). Two females decreased their Tp after egg-laying. Results corroborate previous studies demonstrating diel adaptability of Tp in lacertids and strong dependence on the individual’s condition. Tp should be interpreted as a compromise between different pressures including gonadal changes, embryo development and social behaviour. Furthermore, in a comparison restricted to males, the NE form attained lower Tp than other Iberian Podarcis not directly related in the phylogeny, which may indicate changes at evolutionary level.
Carretero, M.A. & Marcos, E. & Prado, P. de (2004) -
Carretero, M.A. & Martínez-Solano, Í. & Ayllón, E. & Llorente, G. (2018) -
Carretero, M.A. & Mateos, J. (2002) -
Carretero, M.A. & Montori, A. & Cliville, S. & Llofrente, G.A. & Santos, X. (2002) -
The cartography of all species of the Montseny Natural Park (NE Iberian), as well as the estimation of their relative abundance and conservation status were carried out in order to evaluate the reptile populations living there. Moreover, a simple, reproducible methodology for monitoring was performed for long-term monitoring. The geographic situation and ecological traits of Montseny Massif have produce a rich reptile fauna: 17 species (8 lizards and 9 snakes) from different origins inhabit the Park; 4 more live in their surroundings. None of them could be considered as endangered but three are rare. The monitoring method consist of normalized transects in three different habitats (evergreen oak forest, meadow and beech forest) and three seasons (srping, summer and autumn) calculating four descriptors: abundance, diversity, richness and eveness. During testing period, 44 transects were carried out and 276 reptiles belonging to 8 especies were detected. More individuals were observed in beech forests than in the other habitats but diversity was higher in meadows. The values of all four descriptors were higher in spring than in the rest of the year. Small lacertid lizards were the most abundant species; Podarcis hispanica was dominant in evergreen oak forests whereas P. muralis was the main species in beech forests. For following campaigns, increment of field effort and concentration in spring are recommended in order to assure detection of big, scarce species.
Carretero, M.A. & Montori, A. & Llorente, G.A. & Santos, X. (1997) -
Carretero, M.A. & Montori, A. & Llorente, G.A. & Santos, X. (2002) -
Carretero, M.A. & Perera, A. & Harris, A.D. & Batista, V. & Pinho, C. (2004) -
Carretero, M.A. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. & Batista, V. & Pinho, C. (2006) -
Oukaiemeden Plateau is a herpetologically rich locality in the High Atlas (Morocco) where four lizard species coexist in strict sympatry: three lacertids (Lacerta perspicillata chabanaudi, L. andreanszkyi and Podarcis vaucheri - formerly P. hispanica vaucheri) and one gekkonid (Quedenfeldtia trachyblepharus). The diet composition of this lizard community during the early spring was analysed based on 132 faecal pellets which could be individually assigned to a species and a size and sex class. Quedenfeldtia trachyblepharus had the highest prey number and the most specialized prey composition based mainly on small Coleoptera (62.5%) which were consumed in aggregates. All three lacertids displayed higher but similar levels of populational prey diversity. Lacerta p. chabanaudi mainly fed on flying insects, whereas L. andreanszkyi and P. vaucheri had diets based on terrestrial prey. Larger lizards ate larger prey at both inter- and intraspecific levels. Species overlap was medium-high (48-84%). Within species, P. vaucheri showed moderate segregation between males and females (74% overlap) whereas the other species did not (> 94%). Pseudocommunity analyses revealed community structure based on segregation due to prey not consumed (species) and to the restriction of niche breadth (classes). The influences of species interactions on habitat use, restrictions in trophic availability and evolutionary history as determinant factors are discussed.
Carretero, M.A. & Perera, A. & Lo Cascio, P. & Corti, C. & Harris, D.J. (2009) -
he only Italian population of the lacertid Psammodromus algirus is found in Conigli islet whereas the species is absent from the nearby island of Lampedusa. The phylogeographic relationships of this population were investigated. Mitochondrial DNA (12S rRNA and 16S rRNA) fragment sequences were analysed and compared with already published sequences from the whole species range. In all the analyses, the sample from Conigli grouped with those from Morocco and not with the closer Tuni- sian ones. Such surprising result poses serious doubts to the traditional interpretation of the enigmatic distribution pattern of this species in Italy suggesting a recent colo- nisation of the islet from NW Africa, probably human-mediated, rather than a land crossing from Tunisia during the Pleistocene.
Carretero, M.A. & Rato, C. (2013) -
Carretero, M.A. & Ribeiro, R. & Barbosa, D. & Sá-Sousa, P. & Harris, D.J. (2006) -
The spermatogenic cycles of Podarcis bocagei and P. carbonelli, two lacertids previously considered conspecific, were analysed in northwest Portugal. Monthly sampling was carried out at three sites: a zone of strict syntopy and two sites of allopatry for both species, all of them geographically close and harbouring similar habitats. The maritime Atlantic climate, which allows males to remain active most of the year, plays a determinant role on the variation of the mixed- type cycle, typical of lacertids in temperate regions. Comparison with other populations and species indicates that climate modifies the pattern of spermatogenesis by restricting the beginning (but not the end) of the activity period. Results also corroborate previous studies that report an agreement between the variations in the gonads observed at both microscopic and macroscopic scales in the reproductive period. Peaks for spermatozoa were delayed in sympatry but competition cannot be directly concluded. Furthermore, relationships between the number of spermatozoa and body size suggest sperm competition and possibly a reproductive interaction between the species.
Carretero, M.A. & Roca, V. & Larbes, S. & Ferrero, A. & Jorge, F. (2011) -
A parasitological survey was carried out to determine the relationships between the helminth fauna and biological traits of the hosts in three Algerian populations of Podarcis lizards belonging to two different evolutionary lineages. Size, sex, and locality of collection, as well as the infracommunities and component communities, were analyzed. Very low values of parasite infection parameters and diversity were found in all three populations. This is in accordance with the feeding habits of these lizard hosts, which only eat animal prey and no plant matter. Spauligodon saxicolae (Nematoda: Pharyngodonidae), a specialist in lizards, is reported here for the first time in Africa. This nematode was the dominant parasite species for the three populations of lizards regardless their phylogenetic lineage, size, sex, and environmental conditions.
Carretero, M.A. & Roca, V. & Martin, J.E. & Llorente, G.A. & Montori, A. & Santos, X. & Mateos, J. (2006) -
Diet and helminth fauna were analysed in Gallotia stehlini (Schenkel, 1901), a giant lacertid lizard endemic to Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain) in order to explore eventual relationships between both traits. This species is mainly herbivorous, eating a large proportion of plant matter (occurrence 97.1%) including not only seeds but also leaves and other vegetative parts. Helminth fauna included many helminth species typical of herbivorous reptiles, and intestinal helminth diversity was high. A comparison with other lacertids suggests that both traits, diet and helminth fauna, result from an adaptation to insular conditions. Canarian Gallotia, a separate lineage evolving for a long time in insularity, constitutes the most modified lacertid group in this sense.
Carretero, M.A. & Roig, J.M. & Llorente, G.A. (1996) -
Carretero, M.A. & Roig, J.M. & Llorente, G.A. (1998) -
Carretero, M.A. & Roig, J.M. & Llorente, G.A. (2005) -
The intraspecific variation of preferred temperatures (Tp) was analysed in an oviparous population of Lacerta vivipara and compared with viviparous populations. Lizards collected in central Pyrenees were exposed to a thermal gradient and Tp was measured at four time intervals. Tp was strongly dependent on lizard condition (males > non-pregnant females > pregnant females = immatures) and more weakly with time of day (early morning > mid-day). Individual females increased their Tp after egg-laying. Class-by-class comparisons did not reveal substantial differences with viviparous populations as expected for the thermal rigidity hypothesis. Nevertheless, on a short time scale, Tp should be interpreted as a compromise between different selective pressures including not only thermal environment but also reproductive condition and energy allocation.
Carretero, M.A. & Roig, J.M. & Sillero, N. & Ribeiro, R. (2006) -
Carretero, M.A. & Sa-Sousa, P. & Barbosa, D. & Harris, D.J. & Balletto, E. (2002) -
Carretero, M.A. & Salvador Milla, A. & Albornà, X. & Martinez-Freiria, F. & Montori, A. (2016) -
Carretero, M.A. & Salvador, A. (2016) -
Carretero, M.A. & Santos, X. & Montori, A. & Llorente, G.A. (1997) -
Carretero, M.A. & Santos, X. & Montori, A. & Llorente, G.A. (2002) -
Carretero, M.A. & Sillero, N. (2016) -
Ecological niche models (ENMs) will successfully identify a species` ecological niche, provided that important assumptions are fulfilled, namely environment equilibrium and niche equality across the distribution. Violations may seriously affect ENM reliability, leading to erroneous biogeographic conclusions and inappropriate conservation prioritisation. We evaluate the robustness of ENMs against incomplete knowledge of distribution with a real example, the threatened Iberian lizard Podarcis carbonelli, whose distribution was gradually discovered over a long time period. We used several ENM methods for presence-only data (Maxent, ENFA, Bioclim, and Domain) to infer the realised ecological niche at two spatial resolutions (1 km and 200 m). The distribution data were split into four partial datasets corresponding to separate subranges: Central System (CS); Viseu-Aveiro (VA); Atlantic coast (AC); and Doñana (DO). We then accumulated the datasets following the species discovery sequence: CS + VA, CS + VA + AC, and CS + VA + AC + DO. Niche equivalence and similarity between partial models were compared using Ecospat. ENMs were strongly affected by the violation of niche equilibrium; only the VA subrange forecasts the complete species range. ENMs were also sensitive to the violation of niche equality: only VA models were similar to the Iberian model, altitude being the most important variable followed by annual precipitation, maximum temperature in July, and annual radiation. When the ENMs were applied only to the first subrange discovered (CS), only the VA area was predicted, while the other subranges might have remained unknown, thus compromising conservation strategies. As assumptions of niche equilibrium and equality were violated, likely owing to the species` ecological multimodality, the models generated were biased and of limited predictive value. ENMs are useful tools in biogeography and conservation, but only if their basal assumptions are achieved. Partial models may be useful if they are considered as representing different suitable habitats.
Carretero, M.A. & Sillero, N. & Ayllón, E. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Lima, A. & Hernández-Sastre, P.L. & Godinho, R. & Harris, D.J. (2008) -
Being excellent models in evolutionary ecology, lizard populations isolated by ecological reasons are also relevant for conservation because of their vulner- ability to extinction. Both aspects are linked because the ecological and evolu- tionary traits need to be known for developing conservation strategies. Here were report two cases, the lacertids Podarcis carbonelli and Lacerta schreiberi, in which a combined methodology is being applied. Both species, endemic to the Iberian Peninsula and with Atlantic affinities, display a continuous distribution in the northwest which becomes fragmented southwards. Southern isolates are fre- quently small, surrounded by unsuitable Mediterranean environments and more than 100 kilometres apart from their main ranges. Two isolates, P. carbonelli in Doñana and L. schreiberi in Montes de Toledo, are currently been monitored.
Carretero, M.A. & Sillero, N. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2012) -
Carretero, M.A. & Sillero, N. & García-Munoz, E. & Ceacero, F. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. & Rubio, J.L. (2010) -
Among the relict species assigned to the genus Algyroides, the Iberian A. marchi is the most restricted, occupying a small range in the Prebetic Mountains (SE Spain). The biogeographic patterns were investigated by 1) updating the knowledge on its distribution; 2) producing models of potential distribution; 3) extrapolating such models to the past and to the future; 4) making estimations of local abundance; and 5) evaluating the degree of genetic substructuring. As a result of the work carried out in 2009, considerable progress in the chorological knowledge was attained due not only to new localities within previous range but also to the detection of peripheral populations. Ecological niche models indicate that the species depends on mountains, low temperatures, high precipitation and good forest cover at large scale, and on terrain roughness and closure minimising radiation and evaporation, at small scale., The temporal extrapolation of such models suggests a progressive range contraction during the Pleistocene which is inferred to end up with the complete species extinction if some scenarios of climate change are confirmed. Three mtDNA lineages separated since the Early Pleistocene are not coincident with current geographic barriers: the first, highly diverse and stable, distributed along the main range axis; the second occupying a small area in the NW; and the third extending throughout several isolated nuclei in the east resulting from historical retraction. Nevertheless, nDNA markers indicate recent gene flow between these lineages. The importance of such evidence for the species conservation and management is discussed.
Carretero, M.A. & Silva-Rocha, I. (2015) -
Carretero, M.A. & Vasconcelos, R. & Fonseca, M. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Brito, J.C. & Harris, D.J. & Perera, A. (2006) -
It has been suggested that dorsal colour patterns and defence strategies could have coevolved in reptiles, the striped species being more prone to flee compared with the spotted species that rely more on crypsis. Because of the confounding effects of phylogeny and habitat, we compared closely related forms that share the same habitats and predation pressures but display different patterns. The spotted (chabanaudi) and the striped (pellegrini) forms of the Lacerta perspicillata (= Teira perspicillata) Duméril and Bibron, 1839 complex are reproductively isolated in a locality where they live in syntopy. The responses of lizards to a direct attack by a predator, simulated by the approach of a researcher, were investigated. Both forms displayed divergent antipredatory behaviours (escaping and recovering) to optimize survival. Chabanaudi lizards showed longer approach distances and took more time to abandon shelter than pellegrini lizards when the effects of temperature and of distance fled were removed. Reappearance was related with previous flight in chabanaudi but with thermal quality of the refuge in pellegrini. Although both used similar refuges, chabanaudi selected bigger rocks that were less accessible to terrestrial predators but were more prone to bird attacks, whereas pellegrini selected fragmented rocks that faced more terrestrial predation. Our results support the hypothesis of coevolution between pattern and antipredatory behaviour.
Carretero, M.A. et al. (2023) -
Biodiversity conservation cannot solely rely on pristine environments because they are vanishing, while ecosystem services remain vital even in anthropized areas. In particular, agroenvironments are managed for food production but depend on external services, such as pest control, which may be compromised by modern practices. This is especially true in Europe, where the EU policies are inducing drastic shifts. In this context, functional approaches derived from the relations between ecosystem components outperform those based on correlations. Lizards occupy a pivotal position in the trophic networks linking invertebrates to endotherm vertebrates. Most are sedentary, short living, diurnal, ubiquitous and dense, facilitating monitoring. They use agricultural walls to find food, thermoregulation sites and shelter. Even intensive crops remain rich in invertebrates, that lizards consume with little specialization. Some may become pests, suggesting that lizards may act as pestcontrollers. Fields may also conserve a substantial fraction of predators. Management practices may decrease lizard fitness, compromising their ecological role. Where, when and to what extent lizard populations are regulated by prey, by predators or by both has rarely being addressed. This precludes uncovering the function of this animal group taking advantage of its ecosystem services. Here, we present an integrative scheme based on functional ecology and ecosystem services to aid management decisions in agriculture. The pestcontrol role of the lizards in crops and the management conditions enhancing it are evaluated by reconstructing the dynamics of agricultural ecosystems in time and space. A representative array of sites with widespread cultures and management regimes is selected and habitat quality is assessed. Lizard, predator and prey abundance are estimated; and biomarkers of lizard quality (body condition, parasitisation, asymmetry) are recorded. The fraction of potential pests in the diet is identified by metabarcoding. Analysis uses multivariate models to identify the ecosystem services provided by lizards and incorporated to ecological economics framework to elaborate guidelines aiding management decisions. Situations of high disturbance such as extreme habitat simplification, massive pesticide application and, in islands, introduction of invasive predators are specifically considered.
Carretetro, M.A. & Gomes, V. & Sillero, N. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. (2018) -
Carrillo-Hidalgo, J. & González-Dávila, E. & Molina-Borja, M. & Fernández-Lugo, S. (2020) -
Parental provisioning and breeding success of Eurasian Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) has been widely studied in some continental populations but not in their island-dwelling counterparts. We studied breeding success of kestrels nesting in natural rocky cavities in southern xerophytic scrub of the oceanic island of Tenerife during eight breeding seasons and its relationships with the endemic Gallot`s Lizard (Gallotia galloti). We examined lizard provisioning to assess some hypotheses regarding parental provisioning (e.g. central place foraging, parental investment and territory quality). Kestrels nesting in better quality territories (i.e. better habitats for lizards) advanced laying date and increased clutch and brood size at hatching. This did not result in higher number of fledglings. Lizard biomass provided to the chicks did not decrease with increasing nestling age and was correlated positively with the number of nestlings and chick age. These findings support the hypothesis of parental investment. On considering nestling-rearing period in three 10-day phases, we found significantly lower mean mass of lizards delivered in the first phase than in the other two phases together, with no differences between the last two phases. We suggest that kestrels respond to enhance breeding success and fitness keeping a stable number and quality of fledglings.
Carter, K. (2019) -
Caruso, Y. & Macale, D. & Luiselli, L. & Vignoli, L. (2021) -
Lizard thermoregulation is costly and is largely behavioural. Podarcis raffonei, endemic of few islets of the Aeolian archipelago (southern Italy), is one of the most threatened lizards in Europe, its survival being under threat also due to the presence of the congeneric P. siculus, a successful invader characterised by behavioural plasticity and effectiveness and precision at regulating body temperature (Tb). We tested whether thermoregulation behaviour diverges between the two species by analysing (i) the heating rates under a standard thermal condition, and (ii) the temperature at which lizards ended basking (Tfinal) along a thermal gradient. Overall, we found behavioural differences between the two lizards (i.e. P. siculus exhibited lower Tfinal), although both species had comparable heating rates and thermoregulated in the same thermal conditions. The invasive P. siculus had lower Tfinal and, since heating rates were similar between species, it expended less time basking than native P. raffonei. We speculate that the observed thermal ecology differences could provide a selective advantage to P. siculus in the harsh island environment.
Casanas, M.N. & Santos, E. & Yanes, C. & Romero-Aleman, M.M. & Vinoly, R. & Alfayate, M.C. & Monzon-Mayor, M. (2011) -
The successful regrowth of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons after optic nerve (ON) axotomy in Gallotia galloti indicates a permissive role of the glial environment. We have characterised the astroglial lineage of the lizard optic pathway throughout its ontogeny (embryonic stage 30 [E30] to adults) by using electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry to detect the proliferation marker PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen), the transcription factor Pax2 and the gliofilament proteins vimentin (Vim) and GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein). PCNA+ cells were abundant until E39, with GFAP+/PCNA+ astrocytes being observed between E37 and hatching. Proliferation diminished markedly afterwards, being undetectable in the adult optic pathway. Müller glia of the central retina expressed Pax2 from E37 and their endfeet accumulated Vim from E33 and GFAP from E37 onwards. Astrocytes were absent in the avascular lizard retina, whereas abundant Pax2+ astrocytes were observed in the ON from E30. A major subpopulation of these astrocytes coexpressed Vim from E35 and also GFAP from E37 onwards; thus the majority of mature astrocytes coexpressed Pax2/Vim/GFAP. The astrocytes were ultrastructurally identified by their gliofilaments, microtubules, dense bodies, desmosomes and glycogen granules, which preferentially accumulated in cell processes. Astrocytes in the adult ON coexpressed both gliofilaments and presented desmosomes indicating a reinforcement of the ON structure; this is physiologically necessary for local adaptation to mechanical forces linked to eye movement. We suggest that astrocytes forming this structural scaffold facilitate the regrowth of RGCs after ON transection.
Casanova, J.C. & Milazzo, C. & Ribas, A. & Cagnin, M. (2003) -
A new species of an oxyurid nematode is described from the large intestine of the lacertid lizard Podarcis sicula (Rafinesque. 1810) (Reptilia: Lacertidae) from Italy. Spauligodon aloisei n. sp. differs from other species of the genus by a combination of morphological and metrical characters, including a spined tail in males and females, absence of a spicule in males, arrangement of the last pair of the male caudal papillae, vulva location, and egg morphology. The species most similar to S. aloisei n. sp. is Spauligodon caspius Annayev, 1987, described from Tenuidactylus (=Gymnodactylus) caspius in Turkmenistan. Tail length and location of the excretory pore and vulvar opening separate S. caspius from S. aloisei n. sp. This article increases the number of species of this genus from reptiles in the Paleartic Realm to 19.
Casbas Pinto, G. & Lapiedra, O. (2023) -
Biological invasions are one of the main causes of biodiversity loss on islands in the Anthropocene. The direct catastrophic effects of these invasions are frequently reported (for example, causing the extirpation of species on islands), but these extinctions can also alter the biota through indirect effects. At the beginning of the SXXI, the importation of ornamental trees to Ibiza introduced, among others, the horseshoe snake (Hemorrhois hippocrepis). This has been expanding across the island, eventually exterminating populations of Ibizan wall rock lizards (Podarcis pityusensis) locally. The disappearance of a key species for the ecosystem such as P. pityusensis could lead to cascading consequences affecting both arthropods (common prey of lizards) and the vegetation of the ecosystem. Throughout the year 2021, we defined 18 study areas with very similar characteristics: rainfed fields with extensive agriculture with dry stone walls and separated from each other by more than 2km. The study areas were grouped into three types based on the presence of only lizards, only snakes or with both species present, with six replicates each. Our samplings have revealed that the trophic cascade caused by the loss in density and extinction of native lizards has caused a significant increase in the abundance of arthropods. This has turned H. hippocrepis into a threat to this delicate Mediterranean island ecosystem since the increase of the arthropod’s densities could become agricultural pests or vectors of pathogens.
Casimir, M.J. (1970) -
Casimir, M.J. (1971) -
Cassol, M. & Romanazzi, E. & Cerbo, A.R. di & Vettorazzo, E. (2016) -
Cassol, M. & Romanazzi, E. & Cerbo, A.R. di & Vettorazzo, E. (2017) -
Castanet, J. (1989) -
Castanet, J. & Báez, M. (1988) -
Femurs of 73 Gallotia galloti caught in different localities and belonging to two subspecies living in Tenerife (Canary Islands) were analysed by skeletochronology. The bones possessed annual rings like in many other lizards. For a high percentage of individuals, a remnant of the embryonic bone and a birth line of arrested growth remained present throughout life because cortical resorption never completely removed the first annual rings. Thus the age of an individual can be directly calculated from the number of lines of arrested growth. In the sample studies here, the oldest lizards were at least 8 or 9 years old. They reached sexual maturity during their second or third year of life.
Castanet, J. & Báez, M. (1991) -
A sub-fossil deposit located in Hierro Island (“Playa de la Arena”) at the beginning of the Middle Ages, displays among other animals, bones of lizards. According to bone histological criteria, it can be determined that two species of lizards are present in this deposit. Bones of various sizes come from a large sized species, probably Gallotia simonyi. The oldest specimen observed in our sample was at least 14 years old. Other bones come from lizards of little size, probably G. g. caesaris. The oldest specimen collected was 6 or 7 years old.
Qualitative and quantitative comparisons of histological data recorded from growing bone from seven extant and extinct taxa of Gallotia show that these lizards do not have the same longevity, reach sexual maturity at various ages and probably have different growth rates which are in reverse proportion to the specific size of individuals in each taxon. In term of relative growth, the highest rate is seen in the smallest taxon (G. atlantica) and the lowest in the largest taxon (G. goliath). It appears that differences between the maximum size reached, irrespective of the size of hatchlings, are only the consequence of changes in longevity allowing a more or less protracted growth; they are not due to differences in growth rates. On the basis of these data we discuss some points relating to adaptive strategies and evolutionary features of these lizards.
Castanet, J. & Roche, E. (1981) -
Castanet, J. & Vernet, R. & Báez, M. (1997) -
Castanheira Estrela, H.J. (2014) -
As research regarding parasites increases, so does our understanding of these organisms’ role in the ecosystem. Studies have shown that parasites can have a significant impact on host behavior and fitness, thus shaping host populations and communities. Knowing and predicting the distribution of parasite populations, allow us to develop preventive measures. However, due to the complex host-parasite interactions, determining which factors shape the distribution of parasites is rarely straightforward, as many climatic variables, as well as host population traits, can play a role in it. The phylummApicomplexa, a diverse group of obligate blood parasites, includes some of the most threatening parasites to public health, but is still poorly studied. The genus Hepatozoon is the most widespread group of Apixomplexan parasites in reptiles. To understand the distribution of Hepatozoonin the Iberian Peninsula, parasite prevalence and intensity were assessed in several Podarcis species, and variation of both traits was tested for different factors: host sex and age, altitude, several climatic factors. Additionally, we performed a second study, in which we tested for significant differences of erythrocyte size of P. bocagei and P. vaucheri in varying altitudes. Changes in erythrocyte morphology correlated with high-altitude environments, as possible evolutionary adaptations to low levels of available oxygen, have been described in the literature. Since blood parasites, such as Hepatozoon, can inflict changes in the host erythrocytes morphology, this may translate in loss of fitness. In the first study, prevalence and intensity of infection varied greatly between and among populations. Regarding host sex and age, no significant differences were found for either prevalence or intensity. Hepatozoon prevalence varied significantly in some Podarcis species for different climatic variables, whereas intensity only showed significant differences for maximum temperature of the warmest month. These results could indicate that climatic variables may be suitable to understand prevalence variation, but insufficient for intensity of infection. Finally, we created a preliminary model of Hepatozoon distribution in the Iberian Peninsula. It is a positive strong approach, but now sampling effort is needed in order to test the model’s robustness. As for the second study, erythrocyte size varied significantly between different altitudes for the Moroccan populations of P. vaucheri, but not for P. bocagei. To clarify if such considerable differences are the result of differences between host species, instead of different altitudinal ranges, variation in erythrocyte size should beassessed in a higher number of populations and for other Podarcis species.
Castaño-Fernandez, C. & Zapatero Ramos, L.M. & Solera Puerta, M.A. (1988) -
Una nueva especie, Spauligodon cabrerae n. sp. se describe en el intestino de Podarcis lilfordi kuligae Muller, 1927, lacertido de la isla de Cabrera (Islas Baleares). El macho se caracteriza por la presencia de cono genital con cortinilla, ausencia de espicula y papilas adanales con la base expandida. La hembra presenta espinas en la cola y los huevos son alargados y con extremos redondeados.
Castaño-Fernandez, C. & Zapatero Ramos, L.M. & Solera Puerta, M.A. & González Santiago, P.P. (1987) -
Castaños, E. (1930) -
Castiglia, R. & Senczuk, G. & Böhme, W. & Corti, C. (2021) -
Based on genetic and morphological evidence, Senczuk et al. (2019) formally raised the Podarcis populations from the Western Pontine Islands, previously classified as several subspecies of P. siculus, to species rank, i.e. Podarcis latastei (Bedriaga, 1879). This taxonomic change was not accepted in the checklist of the European herpetofauna by Speybroeck et al. (2020), recently published on Amphibia-Reptilia. In this note we respond to the reasons given by Speybroeck and colleagues and support the validity of Podarcis latastei as an endemic Italian species.
Castilla, A.M. (1989) -
EL ESTUDIO SOBRE LA AUTOECOLOGIA DEL LAGARTO OCELADO SE HA REALIZADO EN LA ZONA CENTRO DE ESPAÑA. SE HAN ABORDADO UNA SERIE DE OBJETIVOS QUE SE INDICAN A CONTINUACION. PRIMERAMENTE SE BUSCARON LAS RELACIONES ENTRE ALGUNOS PARAMETROS CORPORALES MEDIDOS Y LAS CARACTERISTICAS DEL COMPORTAMIENTO. SE HA ENCONTRADO QUE LOS MACHOS ADULTOS DEBIDO PROBABLEMENTE A LA SELECCION SEXUAL PRESENTA PESOS MAYORES Y TAMAÑO DE CABEZA MAYOR QUE LAS HEMBRAS, TAMBIEN UNA LCC SUPERIOR DEBIDO A UNA MAYOR TASA DE CRECIMIENTO. LA LONGEVIDAD FUE IGUAL EN AMBOS SEXOS, DE 10-11 AÑOS. EN CUANTO A LAS CARACTERISTICAS DEMOGRAFICAS SE HA ENCONTRADO LA PRESENCIA DE UN CICLO REPRODUCTOR TIPO MIXTO CON MAXIMOS EN PRIMAVERA Y MINIMOS EN VERANO. LOS CUERPOS GRASOS LOS UTILIZAN ESENCIALMENTE PARA REPRODUCIRSE. LA MADUREZ SEXUAL LA ALCANZAN A LOS 2,5 Y 3 AÑOS. LAS HEMBRAS DEPOSITAN UNA PUESTA AL AÑO EN JUNIO-JULIO. EL TAMAÑO DE PUESTA ESTA COMPRENDIDO ENTRE 5-22 HUEVOS. LA DENSIDAD DE LA POBLACION SE HA CALCULADO A PARTIR DE DIFERENTES METODOS COMPARADOS OBTENIENDO LAS MEJORES ESTIMAS A PARTIR DEL METODO DE LESLIE Y DAVIS CON UN TOTAL DE 29.4 IND.-HA. LOS LAGARTOS SON FUNDAMENTALMENTE INSECTIVOROS GENERALISTAS Y OPORTUNISTAS. HAN MOSTRADO QUE OCUPAN UN GRAN AMPLIO RAMGO DE HABITATS Y UNA ESTRUCTURA DE VEGETACION DIVERSA. LA ACTIVIDAD SE CENTRA EN LOS MESES DE PRIMAVERA Y VERANO Y EN OTOÑO TIENE LUGAR LA HIBERNACION.
Castilla, A.M. (1994) -
In the essay the finding and some morphological characteristics of a melanic example of Podarcis hispanica atrata found on the Columbretes archipelago (Castellón, Spain) is described.
Castilla, A.M. (1995) -
The incidence of cannibalism in the lizard Podareis hispaniea atrata in the Columbretes islands (Castelló de la Plana, Spain) under natural and captive conditions is described. Adult male lizards can ingest one hatchling in approximately four minutes. Hatchling digestability appeared to be very high.
This study reports some observations on the predation 01 lizards (Podareis hispaniea atrata) by scorpions (Buthus oeeitanus), as well as on the predation 01 scorpions by this lizard species in the Columbretes islands (Castellion, Spain).
Castilla, A.M. (1996) -
This paper reports on the selection of substrate temperatures at oviposition sites by female lizards Podarcis hispanica atrata under laboratory conditions. Seven females deposited 11 clutches (a total of 34 eggs) in very small areas, representing 20 % of the available surface. The mean temperature of the sites used for egg laying was 25.7°C. Results are compared with incubation temperatures of the same species under natural conditions (Columbretes islands, Mediterranean, Spain).
Castilla, A.M. (1999) -
This study exarnines whether rhe lit.ard kxhrcis lilfonli is a legitimate dispenier ol`the rare lüediterranean planlWithania frutescens by using the biochemical tes of rriphenyl-2H-tetraz-oliunt chloride lirr testing seed viability- This lizard eals the fiesh fiuits of the plants and defecates intact seeds which have been retained I to 3 d in their gut. Viability of seeds recoveretj fr0m tbeces was very high and comparable to lhe viability of liesh seeds. Seed dispersal by this lizard in the Balearie islands nrav tncilitate population expansiort ol`this rare plaDt in the Balearics.
Castilla, A.M. (2000) -
I tested predictions of the hypothesis that a longer seed passage time through the gut of the lizard Podarcis lilfordi enhances germination performance in the plant Withania frutescens. I compared germination success and germination time between seeds that were ingested by lizards and control seeds that were not. I also explored relationships between natural variation in seed passage time and germination performance. Germination success did not differ between ingested (63 %) and non-ingested seeds (56 %); there was no significant relationship between germinability and retention time. Germination time did not differ between ingested and non-ingested seeds, and was unrelated to retention time. Hence, I found no support for the hypothesis that prolonged retention times should improve germination performance. In addition, this is a pilot study stressing the importance of reptiles as seed dispersers, at least in certain habitats.
Castilla, A.M. (2002) -
Castilla, A.M. & Aguiló, M. & Llacuna, G. & Kersting, D. (2006) -
Castilla, A.M. & Aguiló, M. & Llacuna, G. & Perez, J. (2006) -
Castilla, A.M. & Al-Kubaisi, D.J. & Davies, C. & Mushtak, A. & Al-Marri, W.J. & Al-Naimi, S. & Al-Obaidli, E.A. & Valderon, A. & Saifelnasr, E.O.H. & Al-Yafei, M. & Alkuwari, A.J. & Al-Hemaidi, H.E.A.A.M. (2016) -
Castilla, A.M. & Ali, M. (1997) -
In this study we provide inlormation on the current status 01 two reptile species (Podareis hispanica and Tarentola mauritanica) in the Medes islands. Comparison 01 our data with published observations shows that the abundance 01 P. hispanica appears as substantially declined. We emphasize the importance 01 the conservation 01 biodiversity in small isolated islands and that the monitoring 01 the status 01 isolated populations is required to develop the appropriate management strategies.
Castilla, A.M. & Backeljau, T. & Harris, D.J. & Fernández-Pedrosa, V. & González, A. & Latorre, A. & Moya, A. (1998) -
Castilla, A.M. & Barbadillo, L.J. & Bauwens, D. (1992) -
During a 2-year period we studied the reproductive and fat body cycles and reproductive characteristics (clutch size, egg size) of the oviparous lizard Acanthodactylus erythrurus in central Spain. Testes exhibited their maximal volume during April–June and decreased in size throughout the summer. Fat bodies of males were smallest during the spring mating period. Vitellogenesis started in May or June, with oviposition occurring during June–July. Female fat bodies declined in size during the period of yolk deposition. A delay in the timing of reproductive events in 1 year was associated with adverse weather conditions during early spring. During the `good` year, reproduction was initiated early enough to allow some females to produce a second clutch. Both clutch size and egg size increased with female body length, but did not vary between years. Environmental factors that induced temporal variation in the timing of reproduction and clutch frequency did not affect clutch characteristics.
Castilla, A.M. & Bauwens, D. (1989) -
We report on the reproductive characteristics of the lizard Lacerta lepida from two separate geographic regions in Spain. Lizards from central Spain (L. lepida lepida) mature at an age of 32-33 months. upon attaining a minimum size of 122-148 mm snout-vent-length. One clutch averaging 16.9 eggs is produced annually. We found an inverse correlation between egg and clutch size. Lizards from south-eastern Spain (L. lepida nevadensis) have smaller clutches (mean = 12.3 eggs), composed of relatively large eggs, and some individuals produce more than one clutch per year.
Castilla, A.M. & Bauwens, D. (1990) -
We studied the annual reproductive and fat body cycles of the oviparous lizard Lacerta lepida in central Spain. Testicular recrudescence started in late summer and testes attained their maximal sizes during the following spring. Females exhibited ovarian growth during spring and most oviposited in July. Fat bodies of males were smallest during the mating period. Female fat body volumes declined during vitellogenesis. No significant decline of lipid stores was detected during the hibernation period (October-March).
Castilla, A.M. & Bauwens, D. (1991) -
We studied aspects of the thermal biology and microhabitat selection of the endangered lizard Podarcis hispanica atrata during autumn in the field and laboratory. Body temperatures (T b ) of active lizards were within a narrow range, were largely independent of ambient temperatures, and exhibited little diel variation. Activity T b s largely coincided with the selected temperatures maintained in a laboratory thermogradient and with T b s that maximize running performance. Alternation of basking with other activities and shuttling between sun and shade were obvious aspects of thermoregulatory behaviour. Lizards shifted microhabitat use throughout the day. During early morning and late afternoon, basking lizards were restricted to rocky sites surrounded by shrubs. Near midday lizards used a wider array of microhabitats, and many moved in open grassy sites. Juveniles maintained lower activity T b s, had lower selected temperatures, and basked less frequently than the adults. Juveniles occupied open grassy patches more often than the adults. We discuss the relevance of our results for the conservation of this extremely rare lizard and the management of its habitats.
The world range of the lizard Podarcis hispanica atrata is retricted to the Columbretes archipelago in the Mediterranean. We examined its actual distribution, abundance and some aspects of its natural history. Lizards were found in four islets (combined area c. 20 ha). Densities on the largest islet (13 ha) are high (> 600 lizards/ha), at least in favourable habitats. Population sizes on the smaller islets are extremely small (< 200 individuals). A considerable number of juvenile lizards was found in all populations. We report new information on body length distribution, sexual dimorphism, tail break frequency, escape behaviour, and diet composition. Recommendations for the conservation of this lizard and the improvement of its habitat are given and discussed in relation to landscape management programmes.
Castilla, A.M. & Bauwens, D. (1992) -
We studied habitat selection by Lacerta lepida in an open, degraded Mediterranean Quercus ilex -forest using two different methods. First, the frequency of lizard observations in distinct habitat types was compared with habitat availability. Although lizards were seen in a wide range of habitats, a preference for sites with a complex vertical vegetation structure was evident. We also quantified structural features of the habitat at sighting spots of adult lizards. Both univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that lizards preferred sites with a relatively high coverage of high (> 2 m) vegetation, but with some low (< 50 cm) vegetation, and where some rocks were present.
Castilla, A.M. & Bauwens, D. (1996) -
Castilla, A.M. & Bauwens, D. (2000) -
We report reproductive characteristics (timing of sexual maturity, clutch frequency, clutch size, egg and hatchling sizes) of the Island Lizard Podarcis atrata. Reproductive performance was related to female size. The larger females initiate reproductive activities early in the season and produce two to four clutches annually, whereas the smaller individuals postpone reproduction until the season is well advanced and lay only a single clutch. Clutch size increased with female length and was slightly lower for clutches laid during June–July than for those produced during May. Among-clutch differences in egg mass were negatively correlated with clutch size, and this relationship is independent of female size. Larger clutches are also composed of less elongated (i.e., rounder) eggs than are smaller clutches, suggesting that the phenotypic trade-off between egg size and numbers is induced by limitations posed by the females` body volume, rather than by restrictions of energy availability. Comparison of reproductive traits of P. atrata to those of the closely related P. hispanica and P. bocagei indicates that the increase in body length during the evolutionary divergence of P. atrata was not associated with an increase in clutch size. This provides a clear exception to the general pattern found in lacertid lizards.
We report reproductive characteristics (clutch frequency, clutch size, egg and hatchling sizes) of the island lizard Podarcis lilfordi, originating from Cabrera, and studied in the laboratory. Individual females produced two or three consecutive clutches, composed of 2-4 eggs with an average mass of 0.63 g. Both clutch size and average egg mass were independent of female body length, and did not differ between the first and subsequent annual clutches. Among-clutch differences in egg mass were negatively correlated with clutch size, and this trade-off is independent of female size. Larger clutches were also composed of less elongated (i.e., rounder) eggs than are smaller clutches, suggesting that limitations posed by the females` body volume, rather than by restrictions of energy availability, induce the phenotypic trade-off between egg size and numbers. Egg shape was also related to female size: larger females laid shorter but wider eggs than smaller individuals, suggesting that egg width is constrained by the width of the female`s pelvic girdle. Relative to other European lacertids with similar adult female body length, P. lilfordi produces clutches that are composed of very few, but extremely large eggs.
Castilla, A.M. & Bauwens, D. & Llorente, G.A. (1991) -
We studied diet composition of Lacerta lepida in a sample of 325 specimens from central Spain. This large lacertid lizard feeds predominantly on Coleoptera, but also consumes other arthropods, snails, small vertebrates, and some plant material. Composition of the animal fraction of the diet and trophic diversity were virtually identical in adult males and females. Juveniles fed upon a restricted number of prey types which were small in size, whereas adults consumed a large number of prey taxa, covering a wider range of prey sizes. Trophic segregation among individual lizards was highest in the smaller size classes. The incidence of plant material increased with lizard size and was highest in males, but it never represented a substantial fraction of the total diet. The contribution of small vertebrates to total prey numbers also increased with lizard body size. Our results indicate that vertebrates are of marginal numerical importance to the diet of L. lepida.
Castilla, A.M. & Bauwens, D. & Van Damme, R. & Verheyen, R.F. (1989) -
We report preliminary data on the natural history and biometry gathered during a short-term study in a Corsian population of the lizard Lacerta bedriagae . Lizards were encountered at heights of 1650-1950 m. Main characteristics of its habitat are the presence of large rocks, boulders and rock pavements. Three size (age) classes were distinguished. Adult males average larger in body size and have larger heads and limbs than females. Females mature at a body size of 66-68 mm. Earth-worms, arthropods and plant leafs were recorded as food items.
Castilla, A.M. & Castanet, J. (1986) -
Lacerta lepida (Daudin 1802) is a typical Mediterranean lizard common in Spain. With the genus Gallotia in the Canary Islands and L. pater (Bischoff, 1982) in North Africa, it is one of the largest lacertids. Many aspects of its biology and ecology are still unknown, although data have been collected in natural conditions (Seva, 1982) and in captivity (Peters, 1962). Histological marks expressing periodic bone growth (sceletochronology) have contributed to interesting eco-demographic results in many lacertid populations (Castanet, 1982). For instance, an earlier study (Castanet and Baez, 1983) provided new data on individual age, sexual maturity and ecological longevity of Gallotia galloti. Preliminary studies suggest that this histological method would be also valid in L. lepida (Castanet, 1982, Cheylan, pers. comm.). Hence, in this paper, we have used skeletochronology to study L. lepida, within the context of more extensive researches on the exology of some Spanish populations of this species.
Castilla, A.M. & Dunlap, P. (2001) -
Castilla, A.M. & Fernandez-Pedrosa, V. & Backeljau, T. & Gonzales, A. & Latorre, A. & Moya, A. (1999) -
Sequence data derived from a 306 bp fragment of mitochondrial cytochrome b and molecular variance estimates were used to investigate the genetic population structure of the endangered and endemic lizard Podarcis atrata of the Columbretes archipelago (Mediterranean, Spain). Our results show a very high and significant among-population genetic differentiation. FST values and phylogenetic analyses confirm the evolutionary distinctiveness of P. atrata populations, suggesting that the populations of these islands deserve special protection measures. The populations of the two islands Columbrete Grande and Mancolibre are less differentiated than those of Foradada and Lobo, and seem to have retained mainland haplotypes. This situation needs further attention as the origin of the mainland haplotypes is still unclear. If they are a result of recent introductions from mainland specimens, then they may represent a threat to the endemic lizards of the Columbretes islands.
Castilla, A.M. & Fernandez-Pedrosa,V. & Harris, D.J. & González, A. & Latorre, A. & Moya, A. (1998) -
Endemic species and island populations are particularly prone to extinction. For this reason, their identification and protection is particularly important. Podarcis hispanica atrata is an endangered and endemic lacertid confined to the Columbretes Islands (19 ha, Mediterranean Sea, 39 degree 54`N, 0 degree 41`E, Spain). The status and nomenclature of P. h. atrata has a confused taxonomic history, but currently the taxon is considered as P. h. atrata. Populations of P. h. atrata differ from populations of P. h. hispanica in morphology, physiology, behavior, and life history. Because these differences may be ecogenetic, that is, habitat differences caused rapid adaptational change, this evidence alone is not sufficient enough to determine the taxonomic status of P. h. atrata. In this study, we used putatively neutral molecular markers (mitochondrial DNA sequences) to assess degree of divergence among populations of P. h. atrata relative to closely related taxa. The data are taxonomically relevant and provide a basis to develop conservation and management policies for this endangered lizard.
Castilla, A.M. & Garcia, R. & Verdugo, I. & Escobar, J.V. & Pons, G.X. (2005) -
In this study we present the first ecological data for the spiders Argiope lobata and A. bruennichi in Spain. We show data on density variation among two years (2004-2005), on the size of spiders and their webs, on sorne characteristics of the vegetation occupied by the two species, and on sorne aspects of their behaviour. The study has been conducted in the Columbretes islands (Mediterranean sea, Spain), taking the advantege of the recent colonization of the main island (Columbrete Grande, 13 ha) by the two spider species. We also discuss about the possible effect that such colonization could have on the endemic fauna of the island, particularly on the lizard Podareis atrata.
Castilla, A.M. & Gosá, A. & Galán, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1998) -
Castilla, A.M. & Gosá, A. & Galán, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1999) -
Juveniles of a variety of lizard species exhibit bright tail colors that contrast clearly to the cryptically colored body. The `predator escape` hypothesis suggests that bright tail colors deflect the attack of a predator towards the lizard`s tail, which can be autotomised, and hence increase the probability of surviving a predatory attack. Although this hypothesis is widely accepted, surprisingly few empirical data exist to support it. Here, we examined the relative frequencies of predatory attack on plasticine replicas of juvenile lizards in the genus Podarcis with either green or brown tails in nine areas of Spain. Replicas with bright green tail color experienced, over a one-week period, the same rates of attack by birds and other predators as replicas with cryptic brown tails. However, the proportion of replicas that showed bill markings on the tail only was highest for the green-tailed replicas. In contrast, the frequency of predatory attacks towards the head or body was similar in the two groups of replicas. Our experiment appears to support the classical prediction of the adaptive value of a green autotomic tail in lizards. However, lizard species with multiple tail colors may also represent alternative anti-predator strategies that may have arisen by different selective pressures between habitats. We also suggest that the evolution of bright tail coloration in juveniles of Podarcis as an antipredator mechanism may be favored by the correlated evolution of morphological, physiological, and behavioral characteristics
Castilla, A.M. & Herrel, A. (2009) -
To understand the dynamics of small populations in arid environments, particularly in small insular ecosystems, it is crucial to understand the interactions between species inhabiting these environments. Here we investigate the interactions between lizards and scorpions in a small arid insular ecosystem in the Mediterranean. Experimental observations suggest that scorpions are regarded as prey by lizards. However, the response of lizards was sex-dependent, with males being more likely to attack scorpions than females. This can be associated with the larger body and head size, and bite forces in males, presumably making scorpions a profitable prey. Predation on lizards by scorpions has been also documented, suggesting a classic case of cross predation.
Castilla, A.M. & Herrel, A. & Gosá, A. (2008) -
Rapid divergence in behaviour of populations invading novel habitats is often considered adaptive as it may allow a species to exploit novel resources. Here we explore the behavioural response of two closely related species of Podarcis lizards living in different habitats, the Spanish mainland and a dry volcanic island, towards a potentially dangerous prey. Our results show that whereas insular lizards attacked scorpions and consequently considered them to be potential prey, mainland lizards tended to flee or ignored them. Sexual differences in the response to scorpions were pronounced in the insular habitat. Males tended to attack scorpions while females tended to ignore them. Inter‐specific and inter‐sexual differences in the responses of lizards may be mediated by body size differences between populations and sexes. The rapid changes in behaviour allowing insular lizards to recognize scorpions as potential prey may have allowed these animals to capitalize on an abundant food resource in a depauperate environment.
Castilla, A.M. & Herrel, A. & Gosá, A. (2009) -
Castilla, A.M. & Labra, A. (1998) -
This study reports on an experiment designed to quantify potential predation by birds on the lizard Podarcis hispanica atrata in the Columbretes islands (Castellón, Spain). We used plasticine replicas to examine predation risk of replicas as a function of proximity to vegetation and to potential predators, and to investigate the seasonal variation in patterns of predation. Predation on replicas was very high and intensive within only four days, and differed between study areas and seasons. Predation was more intense when replicas were closer to nests of gulls and far from vegetation. The Yellow-legged Gull (Larus cachinnans michaellis) was identified as the major species responsible for predation on lizard replicas.
Castilla, A.M. & Pastor, E. & Pons, G.X. (2006) -
In this study we document the spatial and temporal variation in the density of two orb-web spiders (Argiope lobata and A. bruennichi) in the Natural Park of Columbretes islands (Castellón, Spain) during 3 con- secutive years (2004-2006). The masive presence of these species was detected for the first time in 2004 in the main island Columbrete Grande (13 ha). From then, we followed their population size. It is very important to document temporal fluctuations in the den- sity of invader species, mainly in small islands occupied by endemic vertebrate and invertebrate species that may suffer higher predation and competition for food.
Castilla, A.M. & Swallow, J.G. (1995) -
This paper reports the development of u new technique that may help to increase the number of lizards in areas where scarcity of oviposition sites constitutes the major limiting factor. We have created arttjicial egg-laying sites for the endangered subspecies of lizard Podarcis hispanica atrata in the Columbretes archipelago. Our results demonstrate that such urtiJcia1 sites were quick1y accepted bv the lizards us areas for basking und burrowing. Only one container was used for oviposition by one female, but the physical conditions in the artificial sites allowed successful development in 83’% of the eggs which were experimentally placed in them. Additional studies will be required to improve this technique and to determine if it might be applicable to other lizard species.
Castilla, A.M. & Swallow, J.G. (1996) -
We report the effects of incubation temperature on the duration of incubation and hatchling size in the insular lizard Podarcis hispanica atrata. Freshly-laid eggs were placed in artificial nests that were exposed to a natural cyclical variation of microclimate. We monitored substrate temperatures and egg size throughout the incubation period, and measured hatchling size at birth. The mean incubation period was 54 days at average incubation (substrate) temperatures that ranged from 23.5 to 26.5 C. We found a negative relation between the duration of incubation and mean incubation temperature. Overall survival of eggs to hatching was high (83%), even though eggs were frequently exposed for short periods (1-5 h) to high substrate temperatures (>35 C). We found no effect of duration of incubation or incubation temperature on the size of hatchlings.
Castilla, A.M. & Van Damme, R. (1996) -
Castilla, A.M. & Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. (1998) -
Castilla, A.M. & Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. (1999) -
We discuss three aspects of the thermal biology of lacertid lizards. First, we provide an overview of the available data on field body temperatures (Tb), the thermal sensitivity of various performance functions and selected body temperatures in different species of lacertid lizards. We also briefly summarise information on the mechanisms of thermoregulation. Second, we discuss recent developments to estimate the »precision« of thermoregulation, and the contribution of distinct behavioural mechanisms. Finally, we revise available evidence for the existence of evolutionary adjustments of thermal characteristics in lacertid lizards. Existing studies have mainly dealt with within- and among-species differences in thermoregulatory behaviour (selected temperatures) and thermal physiology of adults (optimal temperatures, heating rates). Available data provide only limited evidence for clear-cut evolutionary shifts in thermal physiology characteristics along climatic gradients.
Castilla, A.M. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Catenazzi, A. (2008) -
The lizard Podarcis atrata, endemic to the Columbretes archipelago (Mediterranean, Spain) occupies very small islands characterized by extreme aridity and a reduced availability of potential insect prey. The results of an experimental study have shown that adult lizards offered individuals of Ligia italica and Armadillo officinalis (marine and terrestrial isopods, respectively) consumed at high frequencies; with males consuming them at significantly higher frequencies than females. The results are discussed in light of the importance of the inclusion of marine prey into the diet in arid insular ecosystems.
Castilla, M.A. (1999) -
his study examines whether the lizard Podarcis lilfordi is a legitimate disperser of the rare Mediterranean plant Withania frutescens by using the biochemical test of triphenyl-2H-tetrazolium chloride for testing seed viability. This lizard eats the fresh fruits of the plants and defecates intact seeds which have been retained 1 to 3 d in their gut. Viability of seeds recovered from faeces was very high and comparable to the viability of fresh seeds. Seed dispersal by this lizard in the Balearic islands may facilitate population expansion of this rare plant in the Balearics.
Castilla, M.A. (2009) -
I examined, under laboratory conditions, the effect of the Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi, on germination performance of the plant Lycopersicon esculentum (Solanaceae). The time of germination was significantly reduced after ingestion by lizards, but the final percentage of germination (after 10 days) did not differ betwe- en seeds consumed by lizards (91 %) and those not ingested (98 %). The amplitude of daily temperature fluctuations to which seeds were exposed had a significant effect on germination time, but not on the final percentage of germination. Small daily temperature fluctuations (± 3,5 °C) reduced germination time compared to lar- ger ones (± 5,7 °C). Because P. lilfordi improves germination performance of L. escu- lentum, this lizard is a legitimate and efficient disperser of this plant. I also discuss how legitimate dispersers can be potential agents for the introduction of alien plants in association with human activities.
Castilla, M.A. & Mateo, J.A. (1987) -
Castillo Ruiz, C. & Alfayate Casanas, M.d.C. & Ahijado Quintillán, A. & Cruzado-Caballero, P. & Fortuny, J. & Bernardini, F. (2018) -
The Paleontology Area of La Laguna University has been developing a collection of digital models of fossils in order to use them in education and divulgation. It has been shown that the use of digital models are effective in getting closer the general public to the results obtained in scientific research. Based on the experience gained in previous work where multimedia contents were created from fossil invertebrate materials, the Paleontology Area has started a new project with present and fossils remains of endemic giant lizards from the Canary Islands belonging to the Ga- llotia genus. The project consists of two stages: firstly, scientific information will be obtained and secondly in which the results will be adapted to generate multimedia contents. The first results of the project were microtomographies, modeling and impressions of specimens under study. This stage has been successfully carried out. Moreover, the study and acquisition of paleobiological information that will be used in both phases has begun.
Castillo, C. & Coello, J.J. (1996) -
Castillo, C. & Coello, J.J. & Martin González, E. (2011) -
Castillo, C. & Coello, J.J. & Martin, Y. (2001) -
Castillo, C. & Rando, J. C. & Zamora, J. F. (1994) -
Two mummified specimens of the extinct giant lizard Gallotia goliath have recently been discovered in the island of Tenerife (Canary Islands). For the first time they allow the study of the species` external morphology. It is characterized by its large size (estimated length >1,5 m) and a low number of temporal scales. Pholidotic characteristics and the dentition provide evidence for a closer relationships between G. goliath and G. simonyi, a species which has recently disappeared from the Roque Chico de Salmor but has survived on the island of El Hierro. Gallotia goliath probably became extinct in Tenerife as a consequence of habitat perturbations resulting from human impact and the introduction of new predators. Also, competition between juvenile giant lizards and adults of the smaller species G. galloti may have contributed to the decline of the giant lizard.
Castro Exposito, A. de & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Guerrero, F. (2021) -
This study was carried out to evaluate the diversity in reptile communities in wetland landscapes located in the Mediterranean region. For this, the status of the reptile populations linked to different Mediterranean wetlands in relation to the different types of land use established in the nearby drainage basins (500 m around the wetlands perimeter) was determined. The different types of land use were determined together with the presence/absence, abundance and size class of the different reptile species. The results showed that areas with high anthropic pressure had a lower diversity of species, as well as a less balanced community structure, that could put at risk the effective recruitment and hence the maintenance of the reptile populations in these areas. The reasons behind the decline in the reptile community are similar to those put forward for explaining the decline in amphibians in the same area.
Castro, M.J. & Bowker, R.G. (1997) -
Castroviejo, J. & Mateo, J.A. (1998) -
Castroviejo, J. & Mateo, J.A. & Collado, E. (1985) -
Castroviejo, J. Castroviejo, S. & Salvador, A. (1970) -
Catouillard, M.G. (1909) -
Catsadorakis, G. (1984) -
Cattaneo, A. (1984) -
Presence of Podarcis erhardii naxensis in Antiparos (central Cyclades) and field notes on the herpetocenosis of the island (Reptilia). -- Presence of Podarcis erhardii naxensis (Werner, 1899) is reported by the author in Antiparos, a small island south-west of Paros (central Cyclades); the lacertid however appears very localized. To explain the reason of this fact the following supposition is suggested: feeding on large invertebrata, Lacerta trilineata limits to small invertebrata the trophic niche of Agama stellio, which owing to alimentary competition, confines P. erhardii to the built up area and high places. The apparently early time (May) of births in Eryx jaculus turcicus local population is also reported.
Cattaneo, A. (2005) -
Between 1972 and 2002 the author visited regularly the Presidential Estate of Castelporziano, ascertaining the presence of 23 autochthonous (eight amphibians, two turtles, six lizards and seven snakes) and of one allochthonous (Testudo graeca) amphibian and reptile species. Their ecology and behaviour is the subject of the present contribution. Feeding. Studies on feeding have shown the trophic roles played by the different snake species to be complementary. In Castelporziano several snake species often assemble in one same site suitable for laying eggs, shedding skin, hibernating and estivating; this facilitates the egg/young eating habits of Hierophis viridifl avus, mostly at the expenses of Elaphe quatuorlineata. With the exception of Zamenis longissimus all the main snake species of the estate have been found in these sites, included Vipera aspis. Current examples of these sites are Ponte delle Rogare on the Coastal Road and the Depuratore (water purifi cation plant). Reproduction. The presence of very young Hierophis viridifl avus, Coronella austriaca and Vipera aspis in July is reported, in the fi rst case owing to precocious ovulations induced by endocrine modifi cations, released, in their turn, by autumnal matings. One such mating has been observed by the author in the locality Riserva Chiesola. Elaphe quatuorlineata showed a monogamic tendency; it seems that particular hormone conditions induce the females of these species to keep in proximity of their eggs up to september-october when they shed their skin, wich is generally sinchronous with the hatchings. This would seem to guarantee a protection against oophagic predators. Predators. A severe selective pressure on turtle eggs (both aquatic and terrestrial) by a specifi c predator (probably Martes martes) is reported. A bird of prey (probably Buteo buteo) seems to be responsible of the serious damages noticed on the head of a number of Elaphe quatuorlineata specimens. Morphology. The presence of black or very dark specimens of Zamenis longissimus is reported; lack of the superfi cial yellow pigment allows the appearance of the underlying melanophores. Such phenotypes have been found mostly in the wet area south east of Torpaterno. Their offspring are chromatically similar to the parents. The longest snake found was an Elaphe quatuorlineata _ exceeding 206 cm. Population status. Since the middle of the 80’s various types of human induced habitat changes in the estate heavily reduced the amphibian and the reptile populations. Coronella girondica and Natrix tessellata are probably extinct, Testudo hermanni, Chalcides chalcides, Coronella austriaca and Zamenis longissimus show clear signs of decline.
Cattaneo, A. (2006) -
Three species of lizards (Laudakia stellio, Lacerta oertzeni, Ophisops elegans) and an uniden- tified species of snake have been so far quoted for Nisyros Island (Dodecanese, Aegean). New her- petological researches allow to record six other reptilian species: four lizards (Hemidactylus turcicus, Blanus strauchi, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Chalcides ocellatus) and two snakes (Dolichophis caspius, Platy- ceps najadum). An unusual polymorphism of Dolichophis caspius was observed in the local popula- tions, which includes both typical and maculated adults.
Notes on Rhodian herpetology. It is well known that the terrestrial herpetofauna of Rhodes is composed by 22 taxa. Of these, 15 have been found by the author; of the other seven, two are probably absent from the island (Pseudopus apodus and Natrix tessellata). As regards the Lizards, it has been observed, among other things, how Mabuya aurata shares its habitat with Lacerta oertzeni (occupying however the lower levels); Mabuya appears also to emarginate Chalcides ocellatus. Among the ophidian species, a particular emphasis has been given to Dolichophis jugularis. Of this colubrid various aspects, both morphological and biological, have been considered. Compared with the males of the island of Kos, described in a previous article, the Rhodian males show a different head morphology, a lower number of ventral scales and a lower intensity of colouring. When adult, they are characterized by dorsal melanosis and ventral yellow-red colouring. The degree of darkening seems to depend in small measure on the age and much on individual factors; a correlation between the dorsal and ventral chromatic variability seems to be lacking. Dolichophis jugularis appeared much bound to lentisk shrubs, where it took shelter when menaced. As in Kos, also in Rhodes it appeared to make use of pathways to track down a partner. In the last paragraph, the author assumes the possibility that this snake may perform a certain selection pressure on the ophidian community of the island, contributing to the rarefaction of some snakes. We finally inform that Zamenis situla is still present, since nearly a century, in the surroundings of the village of Agios Isidoros.
Cattaneo, A. (2011) -
Results of herpetological researches in the area of Marmaris (SW Turkey). The present contribution reports the results of herpetological researches carried out in the area of Marmaris (Mügla province, SW Turkey). Main aim of the researches was to study local populations of Dolichophis jugularis. These resulted to be morphologically similar to those of northern Dodecanese (Leros and Kos). However, some differences were observed in their trophic spectrum, probably due to a different complexity in the ecosystems; month of the year (May), sex and size being equal, the fundamental sauro-theriophagy of the Dodecanese populations changed into the pure ophiophagy of the Turkish specimens. Analysing faeces and ingesta, all snakes preyed on by Dolichophis jugularis had carinate scales, characteristic which in that area (Gökçe) involves Natrix spp. and Montivipera xanthina; the latter seemed also to be strictly syntopical with the colubrid. Additionally, the author records four specimens of Platyceps collaris; the fact that three of them had 17 dorsal scales at mid-body while the species generally has 19 (very rarely 21) is noteworthy. Lastly, contrary to the expectations, Montivipera xanthina resulted morphologically fairly similar to the northern populations.
Cattaneo, A. (2017) -
The European distribution of Montivipera xanthina includes the coastline of the eastern central Greek Thrace (southeastern Rhodopes and southern Evros). While in south-eastern Evros, the easternmost part of its distribution, Montivipera xanthina seems to be a well-defined evolutionary line, in the central area of this wide territory, in south-western Evros, this viper seems to be very rare or absent; this means that the westernmost populations (those of the Rhodopes) have undergone some kind of isolation or semi-isolation that might have induced the formation of a new subspecies: Montivipera xanthina occidentalis ssp. nov. The new taxon differs from other known subspecies for the tendency to a reduced size and correspondingly for a lower number of intercanthals and of dorsal scales rows, both in the midbody (mostly 21-22) and in the posterior part of the body (often 15-16). A list of herpetological species found in the study area (south-western Evros, Greece NE) is also reported.
Cattaneo, A. (2018) -
The herpetofauna of the Aegean islands of Oinousses (NE Aegean) and Lipsi (N Dodecanese). -- The herpetofauna of Oinousses Island (NE Aegean) was partially known. In this paper the occurrence on Oinousses of the following herpetological taxa is reported for the first time: Bufotes viridis, Hemidactylus turcicus, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Eirenis modestus and Telescopus fallax. The probability of the current presence in the island of Montivipera xanthina is widely debated and discussed. Forty years after the latest finding, Telescopus fallax was found again in the Aegean island of Lipsi (N Dodecanese). This island hosts a particular morphotype of Montivipera xanthina with extremely interesting morphological features: shorter and wider head, darker shade, smaller size with low number of ventral, widened belly with consequent increase in the number of the dorsals up to 27 in the middle of the trunk, value that is recognizable only in the great Eastern and North African vipers of Daboia and Macrovipera genera respectively.
Cattaneo, A. (2019) -
The herpetofauna of Samos Island is very rich in species (27 recognised taxa), although most of them both during previous researches carried out in May 2000, and even more during the latest carried out in May 2019 in the south-western part of the island, seemed uncommon and local ized. Regardless the adverse effect of climate change, the reasons could be attributed to three main orders of causes as follows. 1) As in all island faunas of recent settlement, among the various species the processes that lead to establish new balances with gradual reduction of the density of some taxa, may still be in progress. 2) For the chemical degradation of the environment (pesticides). 3) For mechanical and pyric degradation of the environment (cutting and forest fire), which led to a widespread olive cultivation on the island; the olive grove, the resulting open and barren environment, reduces the chance of establishment of herpetological species. Finally as regards the local population of Montivipera xanthina, main purpose of research, the few collected data describe preliminarily a large size form with a quite high number of ventral scales.
Cattaneo, A. (2023) -
Further notes on the herpetofauna of the Aegean island of Samos. -- In May 2022 new herpetological researches have been carried out on the Aegean island of Samos. It is confirmed that the island is home to a varied and heterogenous herpetofauna, distributed in variously scattered and dense populations. Noteworthy is the finding of a specimen and of an exuvia of Hemorrhois nummifer in the northern part of Samos; so far, the nine reports of this species for the island have been detected in the southern part. It is stressed that climate changes, pesticides, wild fires, the widespread presence of unsuitable habitats for reptile life (as olive groves), and vehicular traffic, are factors which, directly or indirectly, tend to limit the density of the various herpetological species.
Cattaneo, A. & Cattaneo, C. & Grano, M. (2023) -
A list of reptiles and amphibians occurring on the Dodecanese Archipelago is provided with the latest taxonomic updates. Notes relating to animals’ ecology and to critical habitats are also given. Observations are also made regarding the subspecies Dolichophis jugularis zinneri Cattaneo, 2012 endemic to Rhodes and its Archipelago, and a survey on the Amphibians and Reptiles species known from the southwestern Turkey, whose presence in the Dodecanese Islands has not yet been detected, is discussed.
Cavallaro, M.C. & Loucks, K. (2017) -
Çavaş, Ç.K. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Candan, K. & Ilgaz, Ç. (2018) -
The aim of the study is to predict the gender of Darevskia bithynica by using a feed-forward back-propagation artificial neural network (ANN). Nine morphological characters were used as an input parameters of the mo¬del. The gender type male or female is the output parameter. The total number of data is 115. In order to train, validate and test the ANN model 70%, 15% and 15% of the total data are randomly selected, respectively. The regression coefficient (R) values are evaluated as prediction performance. The network’s layer with tangent sigmoid activation functions predicts the lizard gender with R values as 0.98, 0.97 and 0.96 for training, tes¬ting and all data, respectively. The mean square error (MSE) values for training and testing data are calculated as 0.0145 and 0.0161, respectively. The obtained results satisfactorily confirm the high ability of the ANNs in predicting the gender of Darevskia bithynica.
Çavaş, Ç.K. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Candan, K. & Ilgaz, Ç. (2019) -
The aim of the study is to predict the gender of Darevskia bithynica by using a feed-forward back-propagation artificial neural network (ANN). Nine morphological characters were used as an input parameters of the mo-del. The gender type male or female is the output parameter. The total number of data is 115. In order to train, validate and test the ANN model 70%, 15% and 15% of the total data are randomly selected, respectively. The regression coefficient (R) values are evaluated as prediction performance. The network’s layer with tangent sigmoid activation functions predicts the lizard gender with R values as 0.98, 0.97 and 0.96 for training, tes-ting and all data, respectively. The mean square error (MSE) values for training and testing data are calculated as 0.0145 and 0.0161, respectively. The obtained results satisfactorily confirm the high ability of the ANNs in predicting the gender of Darevskia bithynica.
Cavin, L. (1993) -
Ceacero, F. & García-Muñoz, E. & Pedrajas, L. & Hidalgo, A. & Guerrero, F. (2007) -
The updated distribution of the 40 amphibians and reptiles species recorded in Jaén province is showed off in 10x10 UTM squares. Distribution of 35 of them is enlarged with 323 new records, 152 for amphibians and 171 for reptiles. Main conservation problems detected for every species are expounded.
Cei, J.M. & Böhme, W. & Corti, C. & Albano-Barragan, M. (1996) -
The tongue shape and its epidermal structure was examined in a stock of palearctic and paleotropical lizards from Europe, Africa, the Middle East and south eastern Asia. The results of this preliminary report clearly point out the systematic importance of this morphological feature in providing valuable generic and specific characters. The fundamental pattern described for the genera Podarcis, Lacerta sensu stricto and Gallotia, e.g., is very distinctive despite several features in common, likely due to ancient phyletic relationships. A number of similar morphological trends stress the reciprocal affinities between Lacerta (Archaeolacerta) and the widely spread genus Podarcis which is still undergoing speciation. Another case is the minor but significant affinities linking the genera Lacerta sensu stricto and Gallotia, the latter also undergoing more complicated speciation due to its insular isolation. The interspecific differences in the taxa belonging to the so-called `species groups` such as Podarcis, are scanty or insignificant. Instead there are striking differences in the generic patterns of the tongue morphology in Afro-Asian lacertid lizards. However, a similar pattern was found in the African genera Adolfus and Holaspis or Centromastix (= Gastropholis according to Arnold, 1989) and Ichnotropis.
Ceia-Hasse, A. & Sinervo, B. & Vicente, L.& Pereira, H.M. (2014) -
Uncertainty in projections of global change impacts on biodiversity over the 21st century is high. Improved predictive accuracy is needed, highlighting the importance of using different types of models when predicting species range shifts. However, this is still rarely done. Our approach integrates the outputs of a spatially-explicit physiologically inspired model of extinction and correlative species distribution models to assess climate-change induced range shifts of three European reptile species (Lacerta lepida, Iberolacerta monticola, and Hemidactylus turcicus) in the coming decades. We integrated the two types of models by mapping and quantifying agreement and disagreement between their projections. We analyzed the relationships between climate change and projected range shifts. Agreement between model projections varied greatly between species and depended on whether or not they consider dispersal ability. Under our approach, the reliability of predictions is greatest where the predictions of these different types of models converge, and in this way uncertainty is reduced; sites where this convergence occurs are characterized by both current high temperatures and significant future temperature increase, suggesting they may become hotspots of local extinctions. Moreover, this approach can be readily implemented with other types of models.
Čeirāns, A. (2002) -
An inventory of the herpetofauna of the Gauja National Park, located in the north-cen- tral part of Latvia, was carried out in 1999-2000. Its objectives were to determine species composition, status, and habitat preferences. The main attention was focussed on reptiles. Data were collected along transects located throughout the territory of the Park. The total length of transects was 166.2 km, and numerous separate observations of various species were also recorded. Common and widespread species were Lacerta vivipara, Bufo bufo, Rana temporaria, and Rana synklepton esculenta. Anguis fragilis was found mostly in a dry pine, pine-spruce forest on the terrace of the ancient valley of Gauja River. A large population of Natrix natrix was found in the southern part of the Park in deciduous and coniferous forests. A few populations of Lacerta agilis were found in dry pine forests, and on the banks of the Gauja River. Rana arvalia was a rare species, more frequently found in high moors. There were also several records of Triturus crista- tus and T. vulgaris in the Gauja National Park. The required conservation activities are discussed.
Im Verlaufe der Inventur der Herpetofauna von zwei Nationalparks in Lettland (Kemeri 1994-1997) und Gauja (1998-2000) wurden Materialen über die Waldlebensräume der Kriechtiere gesammelt. Die Informationen über die Zusammensetzung und das Alter der von Kriechtieren besiedelten Gehölzbestände stammen aus der Datenbank der Staatlichen Forstbetriebe. Anguis fragilis bevorzugte Baumbestände, in denen Kiefern dominieren. Die Art war in den Feuchtwäldern nicht anzutreffen. Zootoca vivipara bevorzugte Baumbestände, in denen Kiefern dominieren und vermied Laubwald. In Z. vivipara Biotopen bestand eine negative Korrelation zwischen der relativen Häufigkeit der Fichte und dem Alter der Bäume. Die Art besiedelte die Baumbestände, in denen Fichtenbäume dominierten, die weniger als 40 Jahre alt waren, vermied aber ältere Baumbestände sofern in ihnen die Fichte dominierte. Natrix natrix bevorzugte keine der Baumarten in den Waldbiotopen im Nationalpark von Kemeri. Die im Nationalpark von Gauja in Bezug auf diese Art eingeholten Daten waren für eine Analyse nicht ausreichend. Es wurde eine positive Korrelation zwischen der relativen Häufigkeit von Laubbäumen und ihrem Alter an von N. natrix besiedelten Orten beobachtet. Bei allen drei Kriechtierarten wurden saisonale Unterschiede in der Biotopnutzung beobachtet. Bei A: fragilis und Z. vivipara wurden relativ schwache aber statistische signifikante Zusammenhänge bezüglich ihrer Biotoppräferenzen im Jahreslauf gefunden: In im Frühjahr, Spätsommer und zu Herbstbeginn aufgesuchten Habitaten war das vermehrte Auftreten der Kiefer typisch, während Fichte und Laubbäume in den Sommerlebensräumen überwogen.
Čeirāns, A. (2004) -
n zwei Nationalparks in Lettland (im Nationalpark von Kemeri 1994-1997 und im Nationalpark von Gauja 1998-2000) wurden Daten über Waldlebensräume von Reptilien gesammelt. Die Klassifikation der Waldlebensräume erfolgte auf Grundlage der Typologie lettischer Wälder, die auf Standorteigenschaften basiert. Berechnet wurden für jeden Waldtyp die Abweichungen von den erwarteten Werten der Reptiliennachweise sowie die Nischenbreite und –überlappung der Reptilienlebensräume. Drei Kriechtierarten – Anguis fragilis LINNAEUS, 1758, Zootoca vivipara (JACQUIN, 1787) und Natrix natrix (LINNAEUS, 1758) – kamen in den Waldlebensräumen regelmäßig vor. Anguis fragilis wurde ausschließlich in trockenen und entwässerten Wäldern beobachtet, Z. vivipara und Natrix natrix besiedelten die unterschiedlichsten Waldtypen. Für die genannten Arten werden die Präferenzen gegenüber bestimmten Waldtypen und das Ausmaß der Überlappung ihrer Lebensräume diskutiert.
Čeirāns, A. (2006) -
The role of large-scale factors in influencing reptile abundances in temperate-zone lowland Europe is relatively obscure. Data on relative abundances of reptiles were collected in various regions of Latvia. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between reptile abundance and climate and habitat predictors. For lizards, habitat was a more important regional-scale factor than climate, although warmth of summer was important in Lacerta agilis. For snakes, however, climate was a highly significant factor. Natrix natrix in Latvia is common only in areas with mild winter climate at elevations below 50 m a.s.l., while Vipera berus is frequent in upland areas with relatively harsh winters. Potentially, the latter species could be negatively affected by global warming.
Čeirāns, A. (2007) -
Vegetation characteristics for reptile microhabitats were described in circular plots using modified Braun–Blanquet method. The total number of all plots was 280, and they covered the whole territory of Latvia. Microhabitat use among reptile species was examined using Discriminant Function Analysis. The first dicriminant function indicated gradient from mesic to xeric sites, and the second—from disturbed sites to intact dry pine forest sites. Group centroids showed good separation among species. Lacerta agilis preferred xeric sites, and, at the other end of the gradient, both snake species preferred mesic sites with tall herb layer and shrubs. Anguis fragilis often was associated with relatively intact pine forest, while other reptiles—with mainly disturbed sites with grass cover. Important vegetation characteristics for reptile microhabitats are given in an appendix.
Th e aim of the paper was to summarize the data on distribution and habitats of Lacerta agilis in Latvia. Data on distribution of Lacerta agilis was collected by the author and other observers in 1990 - 2006. Records were made more frequently in the Coastal Lowland, in stretches of valleys of large rivers, and in South-Eastern Latvia. Habitats were described in the fi eld on circular plots with a radius of 1.5 m for herbs, 5 m for shrubs, and 10 m for trees using a modifi ed Braun-Blanquet method; a total of 32 plots were established. Principal Component Analysis was used to detect natural groups of habitats. Vegetation composition in all the plots was similar, in about 75 % dominated by grasses, and in 25 % by Calluna vulgaris. Detailed vegetation description is given.
Čeirāns, A. (2012) -
Čeirāns, A. & Nikolajeva, L. (2017) -
Diet preferences of the smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) being still controversial, we studied the overlap between its habitat and that of its potential reptilian prey species using the artificial refuge (ATR) method. The discriminant function analysis revealed that part of the smooth snake’s habitat niche is unused by one of its prey species – Zootoca vivipara. The smooth snake was recorded more often in places with high density of individuals of another lizard species – Anguis fragilis. Occasional data on snake diets supported the assumption that the latter species is a very important food item for the smooth snake in the study area. Our study estimated the minimum number of times that a site must be visited to infer absence of a particular species, which was 12 for Anguis fragilis, 14 for Coronella austriaca, and 19 for Natrix natrix. Moreover, the study revealed that ATRs should be placed and kept at a site for the whole vegetation season. In the intact bog habitat, the smooth snake was recorded only within a 40 m wide peripheral belt, Anguis fragilis within an 80 m wide belt, and Zootoca vivipara within a 120 m wide peripheral belt. In the drained bog, Anguis fragilis inhabited a broad spectrum of habitat types ranging from tall closed forest to low open stands. All other species inhabited stands with the tree cover percentage smaller than 30–50%. Coronella austriaca and Vipera berus preferred low stands (average height < 5m), while Zootoca vivipara and Natrix did not show any preferences for tree stand height. Our study indicates that reptiles benefit from lowered ground water levels and more stable water regime of a degraded bog.
Cejudo, D. & Bowker, R.G. & Márquez, R. (1999) -
One of the numerous factors suggested for the decline of the giant lizard of El Hierro (Gallotia simonyi) is the competition with the smaller congener, G. caesaris, ubiquitous throughout El Hierro. Experiments were conducted to determine the potential for interference competition amongst G. caesaris and adults and juveniles of G. simonyi. Movement patterns and activity levels of individuals were quantified. No interspecific aggressive interactions were observed, however, distance moved and activity of G. simonyi changed as a result of the addition of conspecifics and of individuals of the smaller,more active, species. These results suggest that the presence of G. caesaris has the potential to influence behavior and energetics of G. simonyi. Interestingly, a similar species association exists on the nearby island of Gran Canaria, in which a large and numerous lizard G. stehlini is geographically sympatric with a smaller species, G. atlantica. Interspecific aggressive interactions (including predation!) were observed in G. stehlini towards G. atlantica, and distance moved and activity of G. stehlini did not change in presence of G. atlantica.
Cejudo, D. & Marquez, R. (1998) -
Cejudo, D. & Márquez, R. (2001) -
We studied the thermal sensitivity of sprint speed in the captive population of the endangered lizard Gallotia simonyi (Lacertidae) on El Hierro island and in G. stehlini, an abundant, large-sized lizard from the nearby island of Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain). Among adults, lizards of both species were faster than adults of other lacertids. The sprint performance curves for both species had a flat upper plateau, and the obtained values for performance breadth were high, indicating that species attained near maximum sprint speeds over a wide range of body temperatures. Gallotia stehlini was significantly faster than G. simonyi both in absolute (cm/s) and relative speed (SVL/s). Juveniles of G. simonyi were significantly slower than juveniles of G. stehlini only in absolute speed. The lower sprint speed of G. simonyi is consistent with the hypothesis that higher vulnerability of this species to introduced predators may have played a role in its near extinction. Juveniles rather than adults from the captive population of G. simonyi should be used for reintroduction to establish wild populations, because the sprint performance of adults may have been compromised by prolonged captivity.
Cejudo, D. & Márquez, R. & Orrit, N. & Garcia-Márquez, M. & Romero-Bevia, M. & Caetano, A. & Mateo, J.A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & López-Jurado, L.F. (1999) -
Avian predation is likely to be a relevant pressure on the populations of lizards of El Hierro (Canary Islands), particularly if we consider that kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is extremely abundant on the island. We investigate the potential predation pressure on G. simonyi by studying the diet of F. tinnunculus estimated through the analysis of pellets, and by measuring predation pressure estimated by attacks to plasticine models. We also address the question of wheather there is a size refugium for large lizards in relation to avian predators. F. tinnunculus appears to be the only potential avian predator of G. simonyi. Lizards are a substantial portion of the diet of the kestrel although predation pressure upon models was not high. The only site where high predation pressure was detected in the plasticine models is the natural habitat of the relictual extant population of G. simonyi. In this habitat however, models of large lizards were attacked significantly less than models of small lizards. A study of the diet of F. tinnunculus from the Iberian Peninsula in a habitat with a dense population of Lacerta lepida – a lizard of similar size as G. simonyi – shows that adult lizards are not predated by kestrels either.
Cejudo, D. & Márquez, R. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1999) -
We report selected body temperatures (Tb) and thermal set-points ranges (Tset) of males, females and juveniles of Gallotia simonyi. This information may contribute to improving captive population conditions and to select reintroduction areas of this endangered species. We also report thermal requirements of sympatric G. caesaris and of two other species of this endemic genus from the Canary Islands: G. stehlini and G. atlantica. Mean body temperature of G. simonyi is 35.6°C (Tset: 32.4 – 38.3°C), similar to those other Gallotia species studies. Juveniles of G. simonyi selected higher temperatures than adults, and G. stehlini had no intraspecific differences, juveniles of G. caesaris selected lower temperatures than adults. The lizards from the Island of El Hierro appear to be more thermophylous than the other two species.
Cejudo, D. & Rafael, M. & Garcia Márquez, M. & Bowker, R.G. (1997) -
The giant lizard of El Hierro, Gallotia simonyi, is perilously close to extinction. Here we describe 51 categories of resenzia for this endangered species grouped in five classes; maintenance, locomotory, feeding, social and reproductive. Reproductive behaviour showed peculiar patterns involved on plant material consumption. However, even under resenzia conditions, Gallotia simonyi exhibited low levels of lovomotor activity and decreased levels of aggressiveness compared to other Gallotia species in the Canary archipelago. Agonistic behaviour was only observed in juvenile individuals. These observations are consistent with the mild temperament of Gallotia simonyi, which may be related to the prolongued captivity of the adults.
Celedón-Neghme, C. & Traveset, A. & Calvino-Candela, M. (2013) -
The introduction of carnivorous mammals has led many native island species to extinction. In the Balearic Islands, the introduction of carnivorous mammals in the main islands has contributed to the extinction of the endemic lizard Podarcis lilfordi, which is an important seed disperser of many plant species. One of the introduced mammals, Martes martes (pine marten), is also known to disperse seeds and may replace the native lizard in this role in islands. However, little is known on the patterns of seed dispersal by these two different species and their possible implications for plant regeneration ability and population structure. We have compared the quality of seed deposition provided by both to the vulnerable Mediterranean shrub Cneorum tricoccon, by studying the pattern of seed distribution among sites generated by both dispersers as well as the suitability of those sites for seedling emergence and establishment. The study was carried out in two types of habitats (coastal shrublands and pine forests) and two islands (Mallorca and Dragonera). Lizards and mammals showed contrasting patterns of seed deposition and, where lizards were absent, mammals played their role as seed dispersers in pine forests but not in coastal shrublands. The lack of seed dispersal in the coastal shrubland seriously limits recruitment, by concentrating seeds under conspecifics and hindering colonisation opportunities, marking a long-term trend towards decline. The introduced predator replaces the native seed disperser in its service where it has gone extinct, although with important differences in the dispersal service provided.
Cerato, E. & Fracasso, G. (2012) -
Cerbo, A.R. di & Faraone, F.P. & Sperone, E. (2016) -
Cerbo, A.R. di, Partel, P. & Ducoli, V. (2021) -
The previous knowledge on the distribution of the herpetofauna of the Paneveggio-Pale di San Martino Natural Park dates back to the early 90s. After just over a decade the Park has reproposed a herpetofaunistic study in order to update the checklist and the distribution framework of the amphibians and reptiles of the Park and neighboring territory. The study area is located eastern of the Trento province, includes the territory of the Park and a large pre-park area involving a total of 11 municipalities in the province of Trento and 2 in Belluno. The study was carried out in the period 2015-2017 using standard methods for census: Visual Encounter Survey (VES), active research under potential shelters, dip netting, call survey, egg survey, search for dead individuals and exuvie of reptiles. The project also included the collection of signallings from occasional surveyors and herpetological data collected from the open source faunistic platform iNaturalist. A total of 582 data were collected (63.7% on amphibians, 36.3% on reptiles), 40.4% within the Park with a clear prevalence for amphibians (27.7% vs 12.8% reptiles). The updated checklist of the Herpetofauna of the Park and surrounding areas includes Salamandra atra, Salamandra salamandra, Ichthyosaura alpestris, Bufo bufo, Rana temporaria, Anguis veronensis/ A. fragilis, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis, Zootoca vivipara, Coronella austriaca, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Vipera aspis, V. berus. Compared to previous research, in addition to reconfirming historical data, the distribution framework of different species has been enriched with new locations of presence and addition of N. tessellata. For S. atra the exclusive presence in the eastern sectors of the Park was confirmed, with a significant increase in the number of 1x1 km cells. Moreover, the lithological structure of ist habitats was almost exclusively of the carbonatic type. By comparing the distributions of S. atra and S. salamandra in the study area it was also evident how the two species are parapatric. Similarly, Podarcis muralis is limited to the southernmost part of the study area, in out-of-park areas and mainly in the valley bottom or in well-exposed slopes and shows a clear distribution differentiation with Z. vivipara with the two species vicarious even in the common altitudinal zone. Generally, no significant decline situations were found for the most widespread species. While for the rarer ones there were three different situations: probable disappearance of the species (eg Bombina variegata), scarcity of data likely due to research defect (eg Lacerta bilineata) or elusiveness of some species (eg Coronella austriaca), actual rarity in the study area (Natrix tessellata).
Ceriaco, L.M.P. (2012) -
Background: Human values and folklore of wildlife strongly influence the effectiveness of conservation efforts. These values and folklore may also vary with certain demographic characteristics such as gender, age, or education. Reptiles and amphibians are among the least appreciated of vertebrates and are victims of many negative values and wrong ideas resulting from the direct interpretation of folklore. We try to demonstrate how these values and folklore can affect the way people relate to them and also the possible conservation impacts on these animals. Methods: A questionnaire survey distributed to 514 people in the district of Évora, Portugal, was used to obtain data regarding the hypothesis that the existence of wrong ideas and negative values contributes to the phenomenon of human-associated persecution of these animals. A structural equation model was specified in order to confirm the hypothesis about the possible relationships between the presence of perceptions and negative values about amphibians and reptiles and persecution and anti-conservation attitudes. Sociodemographic variables were also added. Results: The results of the model suggest that the presence of folklore and negative values clearly predicts persecution and anti-conservation attitudes towards amphibians and reptiles. Also, the existence of folklore varies sociodemographically, but negative values concerning these animals are widespread in the population. Conclusions: With the use of structural equation models, this work is a contribution to the study of how certain ideas and values can directly influence human attitudes towards herpetofauna and how they can be a serious conservation issue.
Ceríaco, L.M.P. & Blackburn, D.C. & Marques, M.P. & Calado, F.M. (2014) -
We present an annotated catalog of the type specimens of amphibians and reptiles in the collections of the Museu de História Natural da Universidade do Porto in Portugal. These specimens, all from present-day Angola, formed the basis of taxonomic descriptions by both José Júlio Bethencourt Ferreira and José Vicente Barbosa du Bocage in the latest 19th and early 20th century. We provide details for all type specimens and summarize the history and taxonomy for each species. Specimens of Rappia bocagei var. maculata and Typhlops bocagei could not be located during our survey, and we believe these to be lost. The collections at the University of Porto contain type specimens of one snake, Typhlops boulengeri, and eight frogs, Arthroleptis carquejai, Hylambates bocagei var. leucopunctata, Rappia platyceps var. angolensis, Rappia bivittata, Rappia fasciata, Rappia nobrei, Rappia osorioi, and Rappia seabrai. Of these, only two are currently recognized: Afrixalus osorioi and Arthroleptis carquejai.
Ceriaco, L.M.P. & Marques, M.P. & André, I. & Afonso, E. & Blackburn, D.C. & Bauer, A.M. (2020) -
The herpetological collections of the Museu do Dundo in Lunda Norte Province, northeast Angola, are among the most important in southern Africa and represent one of the largest collections of Angolan amphibians and reptiles in the world. The collection comprises more than 2,750 preserved specimens, including type specimens of taxa described by Raymond F. Laurent during the 1950s and 1960s,when he was affiliated with the Musee royal del’Afrique centrale (RMCA) in Tervuren, Belgium, and the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) at Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, where portions of these type series were also deposited. We provide details for all type specimens and summarize the history and taxonomy for each species represented in the type collection. The collections contain type specimens of 28 amphibian and reptile species, including seven snakes: Typhlops praeocularis lundensis, Dispholidus typus punctatus, Lycodonomorphus subtaeniatus, Lycophidion hellmichi, Gonionotophis brussauxi prigoginei, Prosymna ambıgua brevis, and Elapsoidea decosteri huilensis; 13 lizards: Rhoptropus boultoni montanus, Rhoptropus taeniostictus, Hemidactylus nzingae, Lygodactylus tchokwe, Cordylus vittifer machadoi, Chamaesaura anguina oligopholis, Gerrhosaurus bulsi, Nucras scalaris, Ichnotropis bivittata pallida, Mabuya bayonii huilensis, Mabuya ivensii septemlineata, Trachylepis raymondlaurenti, and Eumecia anchietae major; one amphisbaenian: Monopeltis vanderysti vilhenai; and seven frogs: Hyperolius machadoi,Hyperolius marmoratus alborufus, Hyperolius vilhenai, Ptychadena grandisonae, Ptychadena loveridgei, Ptychadena perplicata, and Ptychadena upembae machadoi. The typespecimens of the snake Xenocalamus bicolor machadoiwere not found in the collections. A brief history of the museum and remarks on the overall herpetological collections are also provided. We also note additional information about the related type material of these taxa at the MCZ.
Ceríaco, L.M.P. & Marques, M.P. & Bandeira, S. & Blackburn, D.C. & Bauer, A.M. (2018) -
Ceríaco, L.M.P. & Pimentel Marques, M. & Bandeira, S. (2016) -
Ceríaco, L.M.P. & Sá, D.d.A.C. de & Bandeira, S. & Valério, H. & Stanley, E.L. & Kuhn, A.L. & Marques, M.P. & Vindum, J.V. & Blackburn, D.C. & Bauer, A.M. (2016) -
Namibe Province is the southernmost province of Angola and, as the result of sever- al expeditions from the nineteenth century to the present, it is one of the most her- petofaunally well-known areas of the country. The Province harbors a high diversi- ty of amphibians and reptiles, including roughly one-third of the reptile taxa report- ed for Angola as a whole. In this paper we present the results of a joint herpetologi- cal expedition to Namibe Province in 2013 by the California Academy of Sciences and the Instituto Nacionalda Biodiversidade e Áreas de Conservação, as well as a synoptic list of all the herpetological bibliographic records for the taxa known from the Province. A total of 37 herpetological taxa was collected, including at least three (then) undescribed species, two new country records, and new records for rarely cited taxa in Angola. These taxa belong to four amphibian genera and 15 reptile gen- era. Species accounts are provided for each of the species collected. We also highlight biogeographic patterns, conservation issues, and possible future paths for the explo- ration and knowledge of the herpetofauna of Namibe.
Cerini, F. & Mattei, G. & Luiselli, L. & Vignoli, L. (2020) -
We tested the ability in the ruin lizard (Podarcis siculus) to discriminate between odour of a predator (the whip snake Hierophis viridiflavus) and those from harmless sources. We analysed two lizard populations: one (PP) predated by snakes and another (PNP) where no snakes occur. We tested the rate of tongue flick directed to cotton-tips impregnated with odours, and the rate of tongue flick, the time spent in immobility, escaping and exploring the terrarium containing a diffuse odour. We used the smell of the snake as dangerous stimulus, water as blank control, and cologne as complex control. Both populations did not discriminate snake cue from complex odour in both the experiments. PP individuals were more active and prone to analysing and exploring the stimuli and the environment than PNP lizards. In PP, the higher interest towards cologne and snake scents could be triggered just by their complexity that requires more tongue flicks to be ‘analysed’, with no apparent adaptive anti-predatory value. Overall, we observed a total responsiveness and activity pattern higher in the PP respect to PNP.
Čerňanský, A. (2010) -
The earliest world record of the green lizards, Lacerta viridis group, is described from the lower Miocene of Central Europe. The fossils come from greenish, calcareous marls and limnic clayey silts of the Ottnangian zone MN 4 of the Dolnice locality near Cheb in the Czech Republic. Sediments are interpreted as marginal, riparian facies. The material consists of isolated frontal bones of two different ontogenetic stages and one isolated fragment of parietal. Their morphology is identical to that of the extant members of the L. viridis group. However, the fossil material is much older than the previously described specimens of green lizards. Therefore, this finding extends our knowledge about the evolution and stratigraphic range of the group and about composition of the early Miocene herpetofauna in central Europe.
Cernansky, A. (2016) -
Die Eidechsenfauna aus dem frühen Miozän von Österreich wird hier erstmalig beschrieben. Das fossile Material stammt aus Oberdorf im Steirischen Becken. Aufgrund seiner abweichenden Paläoumweltbedingungen im Vergleich mit anderen mitteleuropäischen MN 4- Lokalitäten, wie etwa Dolnice im Cheb-Becken, handelt es sich um eine äußerst interessante Fundstelle. Oberdorf ist geprägt von seltenem Waldbestand sowie teichähnlichen Biotopen, welche sich in einer sumpfigen Umgebung in der Nähe eines Flusssystems befinden. Obwohl das fossile Material nur fragmentarisch erhalten ist, liefert es wichtige Informationen zur Paläobiodiversität wie auch zur räumlichen Verteilung der Taxa innerhalb der zentralen Paratethys zur Zeit des frühen Miozäns. Sechs Eidechsen-Großgruppen konnten in Oberdorf identifiziert werden: Gekkota,? Chamaeleonidae, Lacertidae,? Scincidae, Cordylidae und Anguidae. Viele werden dabei erstmalig aus Österreich beschrieben. Die Zusammensetzung der dortigen Echsenfauna wird mit untermiozänen Lokalitäten verglichen, darunter beispielsweise Petersbuch 2 in Deutschland, sowie Dolnice in der Tschechischen Republik. Auffällig ist eine deutlich geringere Paläobiodiversität innerhalb der Oberdorfer Fundstelle. Das Maxillen-Material, als Gekkota indet. bestimmt, ähnelt deutlich demjenigen von Euleptes, jedoch erlaubt der schlechte Erhaltungszustand des Fundes keine eindeutige Zuordnung. Chamaeleoniden sind eher seltene Funde in Oberdorf, während Material der Scincoidea reichlich vertreten ist. Dies beinhaltet Cordylidae-Material, wie auch welches, das vorläufig den Scincidae zugewiesen wird. Zwei Arten von Lacertiden können identifiziert werden: Lacerta cf. poncenatensis und Lacerta sp. Die erstgenannte Art repräsentiert hierbei das jüngste bisher bekannte Vorkommen dieser Spezies. Innerhalb der Anguiden ist Ophisaurus cf. spinari in dieser Lokalität vorhanden. Dies deutet darauf hin, dass dieses Taxon einen breiteren Bereich von Umweltbedingungen toleriert als beispielsweise O. fejfari.
Černansky, A. & Augé, M.L. (2013) -
The lacertid material from the locality of Herrlingen 8 (upper Oligocene, MP28) is described as a new species of the genus Plesiolacerta. The material is disarticulated and comprises isolated elements including parietal, frontal, maxilla and dentary. It can be assigned to a single species on the basis of the external surface ornamentation. This morphology is typical for the genus Plesiolacerta, but the material differs in detail from the type species P. lydekkeri. The most significant feature of the new species is that the occipital scute of the parietal bone is narrow, rectangular in shape and anteroposteriorly short. Hitherto, the last occurrence of this genus was in the lower Oligocene. This material represents the first evidence of the existence of this genus in the upper Oligocene. Therefore, our knowledge of its evolution is expanded by providing new data on its spatial and temporal ranges and morphology. This taxon has a much longer history than we thought. In addition, the Eocene species, P. lydekkeri, is reviewed here. P. lydekkeri shares the most lacertid synapomorphies and, given our present knowledge, Plesiolacerta is a taxon very close to or possibly within crown Lacertidae. The frontal and postorbitofrontal of Plesiolacerta are described for the first time. In view of the primitive morphology and early occurrence of Plesiolacerta, it seems that the feature of a longer anterior region of the frontal could be considered as a plesiomorphic feature within lacertid lizards, and the condition in Timon (approximately the same length) as derived.
Cernansky, A. & Bolet, A. & Müller, J. & Rage, J.-C. & Augé, M. & Herrel, A. (2017) -
The best-preserved material of Dracaenosaurus croizeti, an almost complete and previously unpublished skull with a few associated postcranial bones (stylopodium, zeugopodium, and cervical vertebra), is described. The material comes from the locality of Cournon, a late Oligocene site in south-central France. Micro-computed tomography applied to this specimen revealed previously unknown internal osteological characters. Among lacertids, this taxon represents a notable phenomenon: it is an extreme durophagous specialist. Many of the newly observed cranial character states reflect the lifestyle of this lizard, because animals with a hard-shelled diet display a specialized cranial morphology associated with more massive cranial muscles. One unique character for Lacertidae is observed: the parietal-supraoccipital contact is formed by a ventrally deep parietal crest that fits into a bifurcate ascending process of the supraoccipital. In fact, such a connection represents the opposite to the connection in modern members of Lacertidae. Phylogenetic analysis recovered Dracaenosaurus inside Gallotiinae, a clade that would consist of the mainly Oligocene genera Pseudeumeces and Dracaenosaurus, the Miocene genus Janosikia, and the extant Psammodromus and Gallotia. Our study supports previous phylogenetic results and provides an example of the achievement of large size in mainland members of the stem of Gallotia, previously exemplified by Janosikia and Pseudeumeces. The extreme amblyodonty of Dracaenosaurus also confirms the view that herbivory in Gallotia is derived and may be the result of insularity.
Cernansky, A. & Joniak, P. (2009) -
In the present paper, fi rst fi nds of fossil lacertids from the Neogene of Slovakia and new fi nds from Czech Republic are described. The material comes from three localities: Merkur - North (Czech Republic, Early Miocene), Borský Svätý Jur (Slovakia, Late Miocene) and Ivanovce (Slovakia, Early Pliocene), and consists of several isolated dentaries, maxillae and one vertebra. According to the morphology, the fi nd of dentary from the Ivanovce locality can be attributed to Lacerta cf. agilis. Except one vertebra, the rest of the material can be assigned to Lacerta sp. The fragment of the anterior portion of the dentary from the Upper Miocene sediments of Borský Svätý Jur represents the oldest known occurrence of this taxon in Slovakia. Thus, the material enhances our rather poor knowledge of the paleoherpetofauna from the Slovakian territory.
Čerňanský, A. & Klembara, J. & Smith, K.T. (2015) -
The endemic Canary Island lizard clade Gallotia, which includes the largest members of Europe`s dominant reptile group, Lacertidae, is one of the classic examples of insular gigantism. For the first time we use fossil data to test the evolutionary reasons for the association between gigantism and herbivory. We describe an almost completely preserved skeleton of Janosikia ulmensis comb. nov. from the early Miocene of Ulm, Germany (MN 2a, ∼ 22 Mya). We show that this species and Oligocene Pseudeumeces cadurcensis (Filhol, 1877) are in fact crown lacertids, and the first known pre-Quaternary record of the total clade of Gallotia. Pseudeumeces confirms the early origin of crown Lacertidae in the Palaeogene of Europe. More importantly, these fossil taxa show that large body size was already achieved on the European mainland by the early Miocene. Furthermore, Pseudeumeces and Janosikia were faunivorous, thus demonstrating that insularity, not large body size, was crucial to the evolution of herbivory in this lineage. Body size change in Gallotia was more complex than previously thought, encompassing size increase [e.g. in the extinct Gallotia goliath (Mertens, 1942)], but more commonly involving miniaturization. The physical environment may play a crucial role in modulating the evolution of body size in this natural laboratory. © 2015 The Linnean Society of London
Cernanský, A. & Smith, K.T. (2017) -
We describe a new lizard taxon, Stefanikia siderea gen. et sp. nov., from the early-middle Eocene locality of Messel in Germany based on a nearly complete skeleton, which we studied using µCT methods. It shares many characters with the Eocene taxon Eolacerta, which is broadly distributed in the Eocene of central and Western Europe, but is much smaller and shows several important anatomical differences. The new discovery sheds light on the paleodiversity of these lizards in the Eocene of Europe, and the new family name Eolacertidae is proposed to encompass Eolacerta and Stefanikia. The relationships of Eolacerta have been intractable. Our phylogenetic analyses confirm that Eolacertidae is a member of the clade Lacertiformes and provide strong support for a sister-group relationship to Lacertidae. In some places, skin impressions are preserved, displaying the body scalation. As such, the exquisitely preserved specimens of Eolacertidae from Messel provide new insight into the morphology and ecology of lizards on the stem of Lacertidae, Europe’s dominant group of living reptiles.
Cernansky, A. &Syromyatnikova, E.V. (2019) -
We here describe the first fossil remains of a green lizardof the Lacerta group from the late Miocene (MN 13) of the Solnechnodolsk locality in southern European Russia. This region of Europe is crucial for our understanding of the paleobiogeography and evolution of these middle-sized lizards. Although this clade has a broad geographical distribution across the continent today, its presence in the fossil record has only rarely been reported. In contrast to that, the material described here is abundant, consists of a premaxilla, maxillae, frontals, parietals, jugals, quadrate, pterygoids, dentaries and vertebrae. The comparison of these elements to all extant green lizard species shows that these fossils are indistinguishable from Lacerta trilineata. Thus, they form the first potential evidence of the occurrence of this species in the Miocene. This may be also used as a potential calibration point for further studies. Together with other lizard fossils, Solnechnodolsk shows an interesting combination of survivors and the dawn of modern species. This locality provides important evidence for the transition of an archaic Miocene world to the modern diversity of lizards in Europe. In addition, this article represents a contribution to the knowledge of the comparative osteological anatomy of the selected cranial elements in lacertid. This study gives special emphasis to the green lizards, but new data are also presented for related taxa, e.g., Timon lepidus, Podarcis muralis or Zootoca vivipara. Although the green lizards include several cryptic species for which determination based on isolated osteological material would be expected to be difficult, our comparisons show several important morphological differences.
Cernow, S.A. (1933) -
Чернов С.А. (1933) -
Cerny, M. (1991) -
Cesarec, R. & Zad-Ravec, M. (2018) -
Çetin, T. (2006) -
In this study, two subspecies of Lacerta anatolica (Lacerta anatolica anatolica and Lacerta anatolica aegaea), which are distributed in the Northwest and the West Anatolia, are investigated karyologically and taxonomically. The total of 32 specimens are collected and L . a. anatolica (9 males,9 females) and L . a. aegaea (8 males, 6 females) subspecies are studied at 4 different localities. Totally 19 specimens are studied cytogenetically; 9 of them belong to L . a. aegaea (5 m., 4 f.) subspecies and 10 of them belong to L . a. anatolica (6 m., 4 f.) subspecies. Consequently, taxonomic findings relating to two subspecies are arrangement with study of Eiselt and Schmidtler (1986). The result of cytogenetic study displayed that both subspecies has similar karyotypes and these karyotypes possess 2n=38 chromosomes.
Çevic, I.E. (1999) -
In this investigation, lizard species of Turkish Thrace are investigated indetail for the first time. Morphological characretirstics, range, distribution and subspecific states of the species are given. Furthermore, some observations concerning their biological and ecological characteristics are also given. In this study a total of 678 specimens and 10 species belonging to 3 families of Lacertilia have been investigated from Turkish Trace.
Çevik, I.E. (1999) -
Araştırmada Trakya Bölgesinin kertenkele türleri ayrıntılı olarak incelenmiştir. İlk önce adı geçen bölgede türlerin tespiti yapılmış ve bunların morfolojik karakterleri, dağılışları ve alttür durumları açıklanmıştır. Ayrıca Biyolojik ve ekolojik özelliklerden gözlenebilenler hakkında bilgiler verilmiştir. Bu çalışmada 3 familya’dan 10 tür ve toplam 678 örnek değerlendirilmiştir.
Çevic, I.E. & Kumlutaş, Y. (1999) -
In this research, A total of 64 males and 37 female adult specimens from Turkish Thrace and 158 male and 188 female adult specimens from Anatolia were investigated comparatively as two separate populations groups to determine the subspecific status of the species in Turkey. No significant differences are discernible between the two population groups from the viewpoints of pholidosis, morphometrical measurements and rations and pattern and coloration characteristics. So the Turkish L. viridis populations belong to a single subspecies L. v. meridionalis.
Çevik, I.E. & Kumlutaş, Y. (1999) -
Çevic, I.E. & Tok, C.V. (1997) -
In the present study forty-four specimens of Lacerta praticola were collected from Dereköy (Kırklareli) and were investigated in detail in the view of morphological features. The results were compared with the existing knowledge of literature. The population was decided to be classified as a subspecies of L.p. pontica. Additionally, some information about the ecology of the species are given.
Cevik, E. & Baskale, E. & Kaya, U. & Turgay, F. (2006) -
Morphometric characters and pholidosis features of Tinaztepe (Konya), Camliyayla, and Sebil (Icel) Lacerta danfordi populations from Turkey were examined and interpreted by univariate and multivariate analysis methods. As a result of these analyses, Tinaztepe population was found to differ from amliyayla and Sebil populations. We recognize two subspecies of L. danfordi, and our detailed analysis results demonstrate that the Tinaztepe population represents subspecies of L. d. bileki, and both Camliyayla and Sebil populations represent L. d. danfordi. Other subspecies in the remaining part of the species’ range are needed for further detailed comparisons to clarify their taxonomical positions.
Chabanaud, P (1918) -
Chabanaud, P. (1917) -
Chabanaud, P. (1918) -
Chabanaud, P. (1919) -
Chabanaud, P. (1930) -
Chabanaud, P.M. (1919) -
Chabanier, O. (2011) -
Une espèce de reptiles sur quatre est menacée au niveau mondial. Le lézard ocellé, Timon lepidus, constitue un des enjeux de conservation majeure pour les reptiles en France. Pour mieux le protéger, le suivi des tendances de populations est un objectif crucial sur son aire de répartition. Un des paramètres importants à maîtriser dans les méthodes probabilistes d’estimation de taille de population est la probabilité de détecter un individu lorsque celui-ci est présent. Un suivi radio-télémétrique de 25 lézards adultes dans la Réserve Naturelle des Coussouls de Crau, du 05/04 au 31/05/2011 a été réalisé pour estimer cette disponibilité des animaux pour l’observateur. Elle est influencée par la température et la vitesse du vent (AIC= 469.6), elle ne montre pas de variation journalière (p=0.262), et atteint 45% dans les conditions météorologiques optimales. Ce modèle a été utilisé pour calculer la probabilité de détection G(0) correspondant à la période de réalisation de 27 transects d’avril à mai 2011 (G(0)= 0.357, SE=0.059), qui a nourri le modèle d’analyse en Distance Sampling des données issues des transects. La densité de population de T. lepidus est estimée à 8.5 ind/km2 (5.2-13.7 ind/km²). Le coefficient de variation (24.5%) pourrait être réduit par la manière de rechercher les animaux et l’orientation des transects. Cette estimation est la première réalisée en Crau et offre à la Réserve Naturelle un outil pour suivre à long terme les tendances de population.
Chabanier, O. & Renet, J. & Besnard, A. & Tatin, L. (2012) -
Radio-tracking is a technique used to study behavior and activity rhythms of animals. It is necessary to use systems with the least impact on the behavior of the tagged individuals under penalty of bias in the data collected. We tested the impact of a harness system on 25 individuals in the population of Ocellated lizards Timon lepidus, in the plain of Crau. Escape behavior was used as an indicator to assess annoyance on individuals equipped. The results show that there is no significant differences between escape distances of equipped and unequipped individuals (t=1.734; p=0.08). The harness is maintained on individuals on average 29 days + /- 11days when installed after the sloughing of the skin out of winter. This study feeds the knowledge of potential radio-telemetry effects on animal behavior and suggests that harnesses have a reduced impact compared to other transmitters attaching systems.
Chabanier, O. & Tatin, L. & Renet, J. & Besnard, A. (2013) -
Chabaud, C. & Berroneau, M. & Berroneau, M. & Dupoué, A. & Guillon, M. & Vitoni, R. & Gavirai, R.S. & Clobert, J. & Lourdais, O. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2022) -
Thermo-hydroregulation strategies involve concurrent changes in functional traits related to energy, water balance and thermoregulation and play a key role in determining life-history traits and population demography of terrestrial ectotherms. Local thermal and hydric conditions should be important drivers of the geographical variation of thermohydroregulation strategies, but we lack studies that examine these changes across climatic gradients in different habitat types. Here, we investigated intraspecifc variation of morphology and thermo-hydroregulation traits in the widespread European common lizard (Zootoca vivipara louislantzi) across a multidimensional environmental gradient involving independent variation in air temperature and rainfall and differences in habitat features (access to free-standing water and forest cover). We sampled adult males for morphology, resting metabolic rate, total and cutaneous evaporative water loss and thermal preferences in 15 populations from the rear to the leading edge of the distribution across an elevational gradient ranging from sea level to 1750 m. Besides a decrease in adult body size with increasing environmental temperatures, we found little effect of thermal conditions on thermo-hydroregulation strategies. In particular, relict lowland populations from the warm rear edge showed no specifc ecophysiological adaptations. Instead, body mass, body condition and resting metabolic rate were positively associated with a rainfall gradient, while forest cover and water access in the habitat throughout the season also influenced cutaneous evaporative water loss. Our study emphasizes the importance of rainfall and habitat features rather than thermal conditions for geographical variation in lizard morphology and physiology.
Chaitanya, R. & Khandekar, A. & Caleb, D.G. & Mukherjee, N. & Ghosh, A. & Giri, V. (2018) -
Herpetofaunal surveys were conducted in the Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary in southern Tamil Nadu, India, over a period of two years, to assess species richness in this landscape. Sixty-four species of reptiles from 15 families and 31 species of amphibians from nine families were recorded. Eight species of reptiles and five species of amphibians are reported here for the first time, including the first record of a caecilian (Uraeotyphlus sp.) from this landscape. The rediscovery of a potentially divergent population of wood snake, bearing the now defunct nomen Xylophis indicus (presently in the synonymy of X. stenorhynchus), is reported c.140 years after its original description. A revised, collated checklist, accommodating taxonomic revisions from the recent past, is presented based on our surveys and prior literature. It constitutes 99 species of reptiles and 41 species of amphibians–a remarkable diversity that beseeches concerted conservation action in the region.
Chakma, S. (2015) -
Chalande, J. (1888) -
Chaline, O. (2007) -
Chamaillé-Jammes, S. (2002) -
Chamaillé-Jammes, S. & Massot, M. & Aragón, P. & Clobert, J. (2005) -
Recent global warming threatens many species and has already caused population- and species-level extinctions. In particular, high risks of extinction are expected for isolated populations of species with low dispersal abilities. These predictions rely on widely used ‘climatic envelope’ models, while individual responses, the ultimate driver of a species response to climate change, have been most often neglected. Here, we report on some changes in life-history traits of a dispersal-limited reptile species (a poorly studied taxa) living in isolated populations. Using long-term data on common lizards collected in southern France, we show that individual body size dramatically increased in all the four populations studied over the past 18 years. This increase in body size in all age classes appeared related to a concomitant increase in temperature experienced during the first month of life (August). Daily maximum temperature in August increased by 2.2 1C and yearling snout-vent-length increased by about 28%. As a result, adult female body size increased markedly, and, as fecundity is strongly dependent on female body size, clutch size and total reproductive output also increased. For one population where capture–recapture data were available, adult survival was positively related to May temperature. All fitness components investigated therefore responded positively to the increase in temperature, such that it might be concluded that the common lizard has been advantaged by the shift in temperature.We contrast these short-term results with the long-term habitat-based prediction that these populations located close to mountain tops on the southern margin of the species range should be unable to cope with the alteration of their habitat. To achieve a better prediction of a species persistence, one will probably need to combine both habitat and individual-based approaches.
Chang, J. & Hao, W. & Xu, YX. & Xu, P. & Li, W. & Li, J. & Wang, H. (2018) -
The disturbance of the thyroid system and elimination of chiral pyrethroid pesticides with respect to enantioselectivity in reptiles have so far received limited attention by research. In this study, bioaccumulation, thyroid gland lesions, thyroid hormone levels, and hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis-related gene expression in male Eremias argus were investigated after three weeks oral administration of lambda-cyhalothrin (LCT) enantiomers. In the lizard liver, the concentration of LCT was negatively correlated with the metabolite-3-phenoxybenzoic acid (PBA) level during 21 days of exposure. (+)-LCT exposure induced a higher thyroid follicular epithelium height than (−)-LCT exposure. The thyroxine levels were increased in both treated groups while only (+)-LCT exposure induced a significant change in the triiodothyronine (T3) level. In addition, the expressions of hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis-related genes including thyroid hormone receptors (trs), deiodinases (dios), uridinediphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (udp), and sulfotransferase (sult) were up-regulated after exposure to the two enantiomers. (+)-LCT treatment resulted in higher expression of trs and (−)-LCT exposure led to greater stimulation of dios in the liver, which indicated PBA-induced antagonism on thyroid hormone receptors and LCT-induced disruption of thyroxine (T4) deiodination. The results suggest the (−)-LCT exposure causes higher residual level in lizard liver while induces less disruption on lizard thyroid activity than (+)-LCT.
Chang, J. & Li, J. & Hao, W. & Wang, H. & Li, W. & Guo, B. & Li, J. & Wa, Y. & Xu, P. (2018) -
Dermal exposure is regarded as a potentially significant but understudied route for pesticides uptake in terrestrial reptiles. In this study, a native Chinese lizard was exposed to control, diflubenzuron or flufenoxuron contaminated soil (1.5 mg kg−1) for 35 days. Tissue distribution, liver lesions, thyroid hormone levels and transcription of most target genes were examined. The half-lives of diflubenzuron and flufenoxuron in the soil were 118.9 and 231.8 days, respectively. The accumulation of flufenoxuron in the liver, brain, kidney, heart, plasma and skin (1.4–35.4 mg kg−1) were higher than that of diflubenzuron (0–1.7 mg kg−1) at all time points. The skin permeability factor of flufenoxuron was more than 20-fold greater than that of diflubenzuron at the end of exposure. However, the liver was more vulnerable in the diflubenzuron exposure group. The alterations of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) level after diflubenzuron or flufenoxuron exposure were accompanied with the changes in the transcription of target genes involved not only in hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis (sult, dio2, trα and udp) but also in metabolism system (cyp1a and ahr). These results indicated that flufenoxuron produced greater body burdens to lizards through dermal exposure, whereas both diflubenzuron and flufenoxuron have the potential to disturb metabolism and thyroid endocrine system.
Chang, J. & Li, J. & Wang, H. & Wang, Y. & Guo, B. & Yin, J. & Hao, EW. & Li, W. & Li, J. & Xu, P. (2016) -
Lambda-cyhalothrin (LCT) is a widely used pyrethroid with neurotoxicity. However, little is known about the toxicokinetics of LCT in reptiles. In this study, the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of LCT in Chinese lizards (Eremias Argus) were determined following a single dose (10 mg kg−1) treatment. In the liver, brain, gonads and skin, LCT levels peaked within several hours and then decreased rapidly. However, the concentration of LCT gradually increased in the fat tissue. More than 90% of the LCT dose was excreted in the faeces. One LCT metabolite, 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (PBA), was detected in lizard plasma and tissues. PBA preferentially accumulates in the brain and plasma. The half-life of PBA in the brain was 3.2 days, which was 35.4-fold greater than that of LCT. In the plasma, the concentration of PBA was significantly higher than that of LCT. The bioaccumulation of LCT in tissues was enantioselective, and the enantiomeric fractions (EF) ranged from 0.72 to 0.26. The preferential accumulation of enantiomers changed according to exposure time, but the reasons behind this phenomenon were not clear. For pathological analysis, vacuolation of the cytoplasm and large areas of necrosis were observed in the liver sections after 168 h of dosing. The liver tissues exhibited both decreases in the hepatosomatic index and histopathological lesions during the exposure period. In this study, the effect concentration of LCT in lizards was 200-fold lower than its LD50 value used in risk assessments for birds. These results may provide additional information for the risk assessment of LCT for reptiles and indicate that birds may not be an ideal surrogate for reptile toxicity evaluation.
Chang, J. & Li, W. & Gio, B. & Xu, P. & Wang, Y. & Li, J. & Wang, H. (2017) -
Flufenoxuron is a widely used pesticide to inhibit the synthesis of chitin during insect development and its effect on the growth of lizards has been little addressed. The hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis plays an important role on the development of lizards. In this study, the lizards at different development stages (proliferation and resting stages) were exposed to flufenoxuron for 21 days. The plasma thyroid hormone levels, thyroid gland histopathology and expression profiles of thyroid hormone receptors (trα, trβ), deiodinases (dio1, dio2), and transthyretin (ttr) genes were measured to evaluated the toxic effect of flufenoxuron on the HPT axis at different stages. The flufenoxuron exposure showed more seriously effect on the triiodothyronine (T3) level at resting phase than that at proliferation stage. The follicle epithelium cell height in the thyroid was only significantly increased when the exposed male lizards were at proliferation stage. The alteration of HPT axis-related genes expression was gender and tissue dependent after flufenoxuron treatment. The lizards exposed to flufenoxuron showed that the trα, trβ, dio1, dio2, and ttr genes in the female liver were more sensitive at the proliferation stage than that at the resting stage. In the male brain, the expressions of trα, trβ, dio1, and dio2 gene were significant decreased at proliferation stage while significant increased at resting stage after flufenoxuron exposure. Therefore, the thyroid endocrine system of lizards could be affected by the flufenoxuron exposure and the different development stage should also be considered when study the toxic effect of contaminants on the lizards.
Chang, J. & Li, W. & Xu, P. & Guo, B. & Wang, H. (2018) -
More and more studies are focusing on toxic effect of pesticides on lizards. However, the responses of different life-stage lizards to pesticides have not been reported. In this study, according to RNA-seq library data, thyroxine 5′-deiodinase activity showed significant difference between mature and immature lizard liver. In addition, triiodothyronine (T3) level in immature lizard serum was higher than that in mature lizard serum. Thus, we investigated the thyroid disruption of flufenoxuron with different concentrations (0, 5, 20 mg/kg) to both mature lizards and their offspring. No significant differences were observed in immature lizard body weight compared between control and exposure groups while the body weight of mature lizards was significantly decreased after flufenoxuron exposure. Moreover, the levels of thyroid hormones and the expression of thyroid related genes changed with exposure concentration of flufenoxuron and exhibited different regulation mechanism between mature and immature lizards. In immature lizard liver, trα, trβ, dio1 and ugt genes controlled the thyroid hormone levels interfered by flufenoxuron. In contrast, the thyroxine (T4) pathway in mature lizard liver was significantly disrupted especially by 20 mg/kg flufenoxuron exposure. This study elucidated the different thyroid disruption effects of flufenoxuron to lizards based on different exposure doses and lizard life stages.
Chang, J. & Li, W. & Xu, P. & Guo, B. & Wang, Y. & Li, J. & Wang, H. (2017) -
Benzoylurea pesticides (BPUs) are widely used to control the locust, but the toxicokinetics and hepatotoxicity of BPUs in lizards have not been investigated. In this study, the tissue distribution, metabolism and liver toxicity of diflubenzuron and flufenoxuron were assessed in the Eremias argus following a single oral exposure. Diflubenzuron preferred to accumulate in the fat and brain (>1.0 mg kg−1) and was rapidly eliminate in other tissues. In the liver, 4-chloroaniline was one of diflubenzuron metabolites, although with a concentration less than 0.05% of the accumulated diflubenzuron. No significant difference was observed in the liver histopathology between the control and diflubenzuron exposure group. The expressions of Cyp1a and Ahr gene which control the cell apoptosis were also equal to the control level. After flufenoxuron exposure, biomodal phenomenon was observed in the liver, skin, brain, gonad, kidney, heart and blood circulation was an important route for the flufenoxuron penetration. The concentrations of flufenoxuron in all tissues were greater than 1.0 mg kg−1 at 168 h. The excretion of flufenoxuron in the faeces was 1.5 fold higher than diflubenzuron. The hepatocytes in the flufenoxuron treated group showed vacuolation of cytoplasm and decreased nucleus. In addition, the Cyp1a and Ahr genes were significantly up-regulated in the flufenoxuron exposure group. These results suggested that the higher hepatotoxicity of flufenoxuron may be attributed to the higher residual level in the lizard tissues and the Cyp1a and Ahr genes can serve as biomarkers to assess the liver toxicity.
Chang, J. & Pan, Y. & Liu, W. & Xie, Y. & Hao, W. & Xu, P. & Wang, Y. (2021) -
Reptiles are sensitive to temperature changes as ectotherm animals. The climate warming may pose more serious threat to reptiles. Although the behavior effect and reproduction biology have been well studied, little information is available about the adaptation mechanisms of reptiles to temperature stress. In this study, the native Chinese species, Eremias argus were incubated at 15 (cold stress), 25 (control group) and 35 C (thermal stress) for 24 h. The transcriptome and metabolome technology were applied to investigate the molecular regulation mechanisms of lizards to acute temperature changes. The CIRBP and HSPA8 were hub genes in response to temperature adaptation. The increased expression of PER gene in lizard circadian rhythm is associated with tyrosine metabolism after cold or thermal stress. The poly-unsaturated fatty acids in female lizard liver were significantly increased with up-regulation of FASN and ACACA genes after thermal stress, which proved the disruption of fatty acid biosynthesis pathway in corporation with the altered body weight. The cortisol and testosterone were important steroid hormones in response to temperature changes especially in male lizard liver. The increased CIRBP gene expression in lizard gonads suppressed the KDM6B gene, which regulates the testis development and may induce sex reversal in male lizard after thermal stress. The adaptation responses of lizards to temperature stress may threaten the health status of wild population.
Chang, J. & Pan, Y. & Liu, W. & Xu, P. & Li, W. & Wan, B. (2021) -
Although the thyroid effects of pyrethroids on non-target organisms have been well studied, research on the toxic effects of pyrethorid metabolites is still limited. In this study, a type of representative Chinese lizards was used as the model and exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of lambda-cyhalothrin (LCT) and 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (PBA) through cultivation on 3 and 15 μg/g soil to evaluate and compare their disruption effects on lizard hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. The alterations occurred in lizards were examined through histopathology analyses, hormone level and gene expression measurements, the molecular binding interactions were analyzed in silico as well. The results showed that LCT exposure increased the plasma triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) levels and the follicular epithelium heights of thyroid glands, whereas PBA induced no or much less degree of alterations. The ugt and dio2 gene expression in lizard liver was significantly up-regulated by LCT, but PBA caused less or opposite effects. The in silico homology simulation illustrated that LCT binds to TRα in the similar way of T3, while PBA binds to TRβ in the same manner of T3. The results demonstrated that both LCT and its metabolite-PBA could disrupt lizard HPT axis but through distinct mechanisms. The information would facilitate the comprehensive environmental safety assessment of pyrethroids.
Chang, J. & Pan, Y. & Yang, L. & Xie, Y. & Xu, P. & Wang, H. (2020) -
Chang, J. & Wang, H. & Xu, P. & Guo, B. & Li, J. & Wang, Y. & Li, W. (2017) -
Diflubenzuron (DFB) is a potential endocrine-disrupting chemical. However, its thyroid endocrine effect on reptiles has not been reported. In this study, immature lizards (Eremias argus) were exposed to 20 mg kg−1 DFB once a week for 42 days through oral or dermal routes. Their body weight, plasma thyroid hormone levels, thyroid gland histology and the transcription of hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis-related genes in different tissues were assessed to explore the effects of DFB on the HPT axis of lizards. The body weight decreased significantly only after the dermal exposure to DFB. Triiodothyronine (T3) to thyroxine (T4) ratio in the male plasma also significantly increased after the dermal exposure. After oral exposure, the activity of thyroid gland was positively related to the thyroid hormone levels. Furthermore, the alterations in thyroid hormone levels affected the HPT axis-related gene expression, which was tissue dependent and sexually selected. The thyroid hormone receptor genes (trα and trβ) in the brain and thyroid were more sensitive to oral exposure. However, only the dermal treatment affected the trα, trβ and type 2 deiodinase (dio2) genes in the male liver. These results suggest that DFB exposure caused sex-specific changes in the thyroid function of lizards, and the dermal treatment may be an important route for the risk assessment of reptiles.
Chang, J. & Xu, P. & Li, W. & Li, J. & Wang, H. (2019) -
In this study, the different metabolic pathways of lambda-cyhalothrin (LCT) enantiomers in Eremias argus feces and enantioselective disruption on hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad (HPG) system were investigated. After 7 days oral exposure to LCT enantiomers, the concentration of 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (PBA), hydroxylated and sulfated LCT were higher in the (+)-LCT exposure group than that in the (−)-LCT exposure group, which indicated a higher metabolic rate of (+)-LCT than (−)-LCT. Although no significant differences were seen on lizard body weight after enantiomers’ exposure, the gonadosomatic index was dramatically decreased. The testicular impacts such as increased seminiferous tubule diameters were only observed in the (+)-LCT exposure group. Consistent with this result, the expression of ar gene in the (+)-LCT exposure was significantly higher than that in the (−)-LCT exposure group. In addition, the stronger binding affinity of AR with (+)-LCT further demonstrated the more serious disruption of (+)-LCT on lizard HPG axis than (−)-LCT. This study first elucidated the metabolic pathway and endocrine effects of LCT in lizards at enantiomeric level and provided some evidence for lizard population decline.
Chang, M.-H. & Kim, B.-S. & Ota, H. & Oh, H.-S. (2010) -
장민호, 김병수, 히데토시오타, 오홍식 (2010) -
Chang, M.-H. & Song, J.-Y. & Chung, K.-H. (2004) -
The lacertid lizard Takydromus wolteri widely distributed in South Korea, but intraspecific diversity of this species was not almost studied. T. wolteri represented by 8 specimens collected from 5 localities were analyzed by the Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) method with 28 random decamer primers and the phenogram constructed by using the Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) method based on RAPD data. The populations of T. wolteri using in this paper were collected from Gyeonggi-do, Chungcheongbuk-do, Jeju-do, Jeollanam-do and Gyeongsangnam-do in South Korea. Among 68 different bands detected in RAPD analysis, 59 bands (87%) showed polymorphism. The phenogram showed that the populations of T. wolteri were grouped into two. These results suggest that T. wolteri were supported intraspecific diversity.
장 민 호, 송 재 영, 정 규 회 (2004) -
Chang, M.-H. & Song, J.-Y. & Lee, J.-N. & Oh, H.-S. (2006) -
We reconsidered the taxonomy of lizards in Korea on the basis of morphological characters of collected specimens and previously published data. A total of 138 specimens were used in this study, which were collected from April 1996 to October 2005, From the observations, we presented keys to classify Korean lizards. Also, we indicated sampling sites for each species on the Korean map. In addition, we added some remarks on the distribution of Gekko japonicus, the study of genus Scincella and the synonym of genus Takydromus. Especially, it was uncertain whether the southern Korean Peninsula is a natural habitat of Takydromus tachydromoides oldi which will be necessary in further study.
Chang, M.H. (2011) -
Chang, M.H. & Oh, H.S. (2012) -
This study was conducted to find the sexual size dimorphism(SSD) in morphometric characters of three species , Eremias argus, Takydromus amurensis and T. wolteri in lacertid lizard from Korea. Six external traits, snout‐vent length, tail length, head length, head width, forelimb length and hind-limb length were focused to compare two sexes among the each three lizards. Student`s t‐test was used to compare the adult SVL between the sexes for each species. For the other parts of the body, a one‐way analysis of covariance(ANCOVA) with SVL as the covariate was used. In all these species, males have longer tail and head than females like general lacertid lizard. In addition, male E. arugus have broader head and longer forelimbs and hind-limbs than conspecific females. Likewise, male T. wolteri have broader head than females. In the three lacertid lizards from Korea, snout‐vent length did not significantly differ between the sexes. To understand the causes for SSD in SVL, ecological information, such as the presence/absence of male-male combat and the correlation between the SVL of female and litter size, is required. Therefore, further ecological study on the three species of lacertid lizard from Korea will make it possible to explain the reason SSD is not found in SVL.
Chang, M.H. & Song, J.Y. & Koo, K.S. (2021) -
The endangered species Mongolian racerunner (Eremias Argus), with a limited distribution in South Korea, is found only in sanddunes near waterside and forests. Therefore, species trends in this particular habitat are directly affected by habitat contaminationand destruction. In this study, we examined the effects of coastal sand dune restoration on the distribution and population ofE. argus. We conducted a field survey in Baramarye special protection zone, called Baramarye Coast, a part of the TaeanhaeanNational Park, during April and June 2016. We searched and recorded the location ofE. argusand tagged them using the toeclipping method. The size of theE. arguspopulation was estimated using the Peterson method. After the restoration of coastalsand dunes in Baramarye Coast, the population size ofE. argusincreased by 126–137 (21.1–55.7%) compared with that in 2008.The home range ofE. argusin coastal sand dunes was significantly expanded by 4.8-fold for 95% Kernel density (KD) and 3.6-fold for 50% KD compared with that in 2008. Moreover, we confirmed that the distribution ofE. arguswas expanded to therestored area. Our study showed that in situ conservation is effective for endangeredE. argus,distributed in particular environ-ments such as coastal region. This study provides one more reason why coastal region must be conserved.
Chang, M.H. & Song, J.Y. & Oh, H.S. & Chung, K.H. (2006) -
The present paper attempts to elucidate the taxonomic status of five species of Takydromus (T. amurensis, T. wolteri, T. tachydromoides oldi, T. kwagakunesis and T. auroralis) reported in Korean Peninsula to date. For this purpose 114 Takydromus specimens were collected from April 2003 to october 2004 in Southern Korean peninsula and morphological characters inclusive of the presence of contact between front-nasal and fostral and the number of femoral pores have been analyzed. The analysis reveals that T. kwagakunesis and T. auroralis should be synonymized to T. amurensis. In addition, the Korean Takydromus consists of two species of T. amurensis and T. wolteri.
장민호, 송재영, 오홍식, 정규회 (2006) -
Chang, M.L.Y. (1932) -
Chang, Y.-M. & Juang, M.-H. & Sung, S.M. & Huang, Y.-S. & Lan, H.-W. &Yang, Z.Y. & Cheng, .-H. & Wu, J.-Y. & Wang, C.-W. (2018) -
Chapelin-Viscardi, J.D. & Ponel, P. & Renet, J. & Tatin, L. (2012) -
Charvát, Z. & Král, B. (1969) -
Chassagnaud, J. (2012) -
Châtelain, G. (1985) -
Chaves, M. (1911) -
Chechetkina, M. (2022) -
Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) is a group of highly polymorphic genes involved in the adaptive immune response of jawed vertebrates. Multiple factors, such as host-pathogen co-evolution, negative frequency dependent selection, and heterozygote advantage contribute to the generation and maintenance of MHC diversity. One possible force affecting MHC diversity is introgression, which could persist for MHC even under strong reproductive isolation. In this analysis, a group of Podarcis lizard species inhabiting the Iberian peninsula was studied. 600 individuals were sampled, after which DNA was extracted, amplified, and sequenced, identifying MHC class I and II alleles. The study system was characterized in terms of its MHC allele diversity, and two hybrid zones were tested for MHC introgression. Analysis showed an extremely high overall number of alleles, significant differences between species and populations within species, and high but similar mean numbers of alleles per individual. Whole genome sequencing of individuals revealed very low instances of hybridization and genome-wide introgression. Hybrid zone analysis showed strongly statistically significant differences in MHC allele sharing between zones of close contact compared to zones of no contact, indicating introgression. These results are in line with the hypothesis that MHC genes are among the last to stop introgressing in the last stages of speciation.
Chehri, K. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Sayyadi, F. (2015) -
From July to October 2013, nine out of 40 Acanthodactylus nilsoni collected from Western Iran, showed clinical signs of dermatitis in the dorsal and ventral surface of neck and fingers. Therefore, the aim of this survey was to identify the fungal flora colonizing the skin of A. nilsoni using morphological and molecular studies. Nine isolates of Fusarium were obtained from infected lizard samples and identified as Fusarium proliferatum through study of morphological characters. In the present study, selected F. proliferatum isolates (USMGFSC 230-112, USMGFSC 186-113, and USMGFSC 33-114) were examined and phylogenetically analysed on the basis of partial sequences of the tef1 and tub2 genes. Sequence analysis supported the morphological data, and all isolates were placed within F. proliferatum species. This is the first report on morphological and molecular identification of F. proliferatum isolated from lizards’ dermatitis in Iran.
Chemelar, J. & Frynta, D. & Rudolfova, V. & Fischedr, D. & Rehák, I. (2024) -
The European green lizard (Lacerta viridis) populations in Bohemia, Czech Republic, are isolated by more than 150 km from the northern border of the continuous range of the species. These populations are fragmented and further isolated from each other. In this landscape mosaic, they are tied to specific habitats located in deeply incised river valleys (the so-called river phenomenon) and thus may be viewed as stenotopic. The research site is located on the northern edge of the city of Prague. Since 1998, this site has been the subject of long-term conservation management aimed at strengthening and maintaining the abundance of the local L. viridis population. To formulate recommendations for the management of other isolated L. viridis populations, we performed a spatial analysis of the localities with observed individuals to determine and evaluate the significance of the chosen biotic and abiotic factors for habitat discrimination. We applied principal components and discriminant function analyses and examined the effect of 24 variables on the species’ presence. The results revealed the principal role of the presence of rock debris and hiding places for lizard occurrence. The strongest negative predictors were the presence of tall grass and high vegetation coverage. We discuss the applicability of our findings in both the theory and practice of species conservation and population management.
Chen, C.W. & Whiting, M.J. & Yang, E.C. & Lin, S.M. (2021) -
Anticipatory behaviour is the expectation of a near-future event based on information processed in the past and influences an animal’s tactical decisions, particularly when there are significant fitness consequences. The grass lizard (Takydromus viridipunctatus) perches on blades of grass at night which likely reduces the probability of predation by terrestrial preda- tors such as snakes, rodents and shrews. During twilight (starting 30 min before sunrise), they move from above the grass to within grass clumps and this is thought to afford the lizard protection while reducing detection by avian predators. Here, we examined how lizards shift their behaviour as a function of visual detectability to their primary predator, the cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis). We show that the lizards shift from their perch site during twilight at the earliest time at which egrets depart communal roosts. At the same time, visual modelling shows a dramatic increase in the detectability of the lizards to the visual system of egrets. Therefore, anticipatory behaviour in response to environmental cues acts to reduce pre- dation risk as lizards become more conspicuous and predators become more active. Grass lizard anticipatory behaviour appears to be finely tuned by natural selection to adjust to temporal changes in predation risk.
Chen, D. & Su, X. & Liu, J. & Guo, X. (2019) -
The Variegated Racerunner, Eremias vermiculata, is widespread in Northwest China, southern Mongolia, and Zaisan Basin of Kazakhstan. In this study, a nearly complete mitochondrial genome (17,972 bp in length) of E. vermiculata from the Dunhuang Basin in Northwest China was determined by next-generation sequencing. Similar to the typical mtDNA of vertebrates, it contained two ribosomal RNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes, and one control region (CR). With exception to the CR, all of the 37 genes were completely recovered. The concatenated PCGs were used to conduct Bayesian phylogenetic analyses together with mitogenome data of lacertids in GenBank. The resulting phylogenetic tree confirmed the monophyly of genus Eremias and its viviparous species as well as E. vermiculata, respectively. The mitogenome presented here will contribute to the examination of phylogeographic structure for E. vermiculata and understanding of mitochondrial DNA evolution in Eremias.
Chen, L. & Diao, J. & Zhang, W. & Zhang, L. & Wang, Z. & Li, Y. & Deng, Y. & Zhou, Z. (2018) -
Numerous studies suggested that reptiles are sensitive to environmental pollution and the abundance of many species are in decline. Our research is aim to assess the toxic effects of pesticide in reptiles. And we also want to supply some data about nondestructive samples for environmental risk assessment in reptiles. Lizards were orally administered a single-dose of beta-cypermethrin (BCP) or myclobutanil (MC) at the concentration of 20 mg/kg body weight (bw). The results showed that pesticides could induce changes in enzymatic activities (SOD, CAT, LDH, AChE) and MDA levels in organs or tissues of lizards. BCP could cause more severe oxidative damage than that of MC. Salivary enzymes activities showed sensitivity changes to the toxicity of pesticides. We could use saliva to reflect whether the reptiles are toxic by pesticides. We also agree that buccal swabs could be used as a tool for saliva sampling.
Chen, L. & Guo, J. & Zhou, Z.-S. & Li, H. (2012) -
Eleven polymorphic microsatellite loci are described for the multi-ocellated racerunner Eremias multiocellata (Squamata: Lacertidae). Loci were screened in 33 individuals of E. multiocellata. The number of alleles ranged from 11 to 17. The observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.515 to 0.939, and the expected heterozygosity from 0.875 to 0.925. These microsatellite markers provide a valuable set of tools for population genetic studies of E. multiocellata.
Chen, L. & Li, R. & Diao, J. & Tian, Z. & Di, S. & Zhang, W. & Cheng, C. & Zhou, Z. (2017) -
In recent years, serious environmental pollution has caused a decrease in the abundance of many species worldwide. Reptiles are the most diverse group of terrestrial vertebrates. There are large amounts of toxicological data available regarding myclobutanil, but the adverse effects of myclobutanil on lizards has not been widely reported. In this study, treatment groups were orally administered a single-dose of myclobutanil (20mg/kg body weight (bw)). Subsequently, it was found that there were differences in myclobutanil levels between the different tissues and concentrations also changed with degradation time. The tissue concentrations of myclobutanil decreased in the order of: stomach > liver > lung > blood > testis > kidney > heart > brain. Based on our results, the liver and testis were considered to be the main target organs in lizards, indicating that the myclobutanil could induce potential hepatic and reproductive toxicity on lizards. Meanwhile, it was also demonstrated that the toxic effects of myclobutanil was different in different species, and the distribution of different pesticides in lizards were different.
Chen, L. & Wang, D. & Tian, Z. & DI, S. & Zhang, W. & Wang, F. & Zhou, Z. & Diao, J. (2017) -
Soil contamination caused by the widespread use of pesticides is one of the main environmental problems facing conservation organizations. (S)-metolachlor (SM) is a selective pre-emergent herbicide that poses potential risks to soil-related organisms such as reptiles. The present study elucidated the toxic effects of SM (3 and 30 mg/kg soil weight) in Eremias argus. The results showed that growth pattern was similar between the sexes in breeding season. For males, both kidney coefficient (KC) and testis coefficient in the exposure group were significantly different from those in the control group, while only KC in the high-dose group was significantly higher for females. Based on histopathological analysis, the livers of female lizards were more vulnerable than those of males in the exposure group. A reduction in total egg output was observed in SM exposed lizards. Accumulation studies indicated that skin exposure may be an important route for SM uptake in E. argus, and that the liver and lung have strong detoxification abilities. In addition, the body burdens of the lizards increased with increasing SM concentration in the soil.
Chen, L. & Xu, P. & Diao, J. & Di, S. & Li, R. & Zhou, Z. (2016) -
Beta-cypermethrin (BCYP), a synthetic pyrethriod (PYR) pesticide which is a mixture of the alpha- and theta- cypermethrin, have been reported various toxicological profiles to non-target organisms. But little is known about assimilation, accumulation and toxic effects of BCYP in reptiles. The present study firstly elucidated absorption, tissue distribution, excretion of BCYP in Eremias argus . Treated group were administered orally with BCYP 20 mg/kg body weight (bw) dissolved in corn oil. Neurotoxicity was observed at 24 h after gavage, and the poisoning symptom ameliorated at 72 h. The changes of BCYP concentration depended on degradation time and tissues. Lizards had a strong capacity to eliminate BCYP with different tissue distribution. The tissues concentration of BCYP from high to low were intestine, stomach, heart, kidney, blood, lung, liver and brain. Bimodal phenomena were observed in lung, liver and kidney. These results may be due to the activities of enzymes, circadian rhythm, and enterohepatic circulation in lizards. Based on the results of organ coefficient and histopathology analysis in liver, the liver was confirmed as the main target organ.
Chen, Q-L. & Tang, X-S. & Yao, W-J. & Lu, S-Q. (2009) -
Cytochrome b (cyt b) gene complete sequences (1143bp) of Takydromus sylvaticus were sequenced. In order to clarify the phylogenetic position of the Takydromus sylvaticus, we investigated the phylogeny of 15 Takydromus spp. distributed in East-Asia by Maximum Parsimony (MP), Bayesian Inference (BI), and Maximum Likelihood (ML) methods using DNA fragments of cyt b genes. The results supported that the Platyplacopus merged into Takydromus and negated the validity of Platyplacopus. Furthermore, the prediction of tertiary structures of cyt b exhibited the CD loop region contain two short helices forming a hairpin arrangement, namely cd1 and cd2. Thermostability analysis shows that the CD-loop region is unstable thermodynamically and may provide mobility to amino acids located at the heme, and might provide high flexibility to the top of ISP (iron–sulfur protein) and the cavity region of Qo binding site. It suggested that the two short helices of CD loop region of cyt b was a dominating portion for ISP binding site.
Chen, Q. (1994) -
陈强 (1994) -
摘要 本文研究丽斑麻蜥Eremias argus和草原沙蜥Phrynocephalus frontalis的静止代谢率(RMR)与环境温度及体重的关系,并测定了RMR的昼夜节律。
Chen, Q. & Wang S.-Y. (1992) -
Chen, X. & Wang, J. & Gong, D. (1997) -
Chen, X.J. & Xu, X.F. & Ji, X. (2003) -
Influence of body temperature on food assimilation and locomotor performance was studied in adult white-striped grass lizards (Takydromus wolteri) from a population in Chuzhou (Anhui, Eastern China). Food passage time dramatically decreased with increase in body temperature within the range from 26°C to 34°C, and then nearly levelled at higher body temperatures. Lizards overall gained net mass at 26°C, 28°C and 30°C and lost mass at 32°C and 34°C. Daily production of faeces (mass-specific) was affected by body temperature and, when influence of variation in the total food energy intake was removed by an ANCOVA, lizards at 26°C were found to produce faeces that contained significantly lower energy as compared with those at higher body temperatures. The total energy of urates was affected by the total food energy intake, but an ANCOVA with the total food energy intake as the covariate showed that lizards at different body temperatures did not produce urates that differed in energy. Within the temperature range considered, daily production of urates (mass-specific), apparent digestive coefficient (ADC) and assimilation efficiency (AE) were not affected by body temperature, although both ADC and AE were apparently greater in lizards at 26°C. Both locomotor stamina and sprint speed increased with increase in body temperature within the range from 18°C to 30°C, and then decreased at higher temperatures. Inter-individual differences were a significant source of variation in locomotor performance. Except for ADC and AE, all traits examined were significantly affected by body temperature, although thermal sensitivities differed considerably among traits. Within the body temperature range considered, 26°C was the most suitable body temperature for somatic tissue growth, and 30°C was an optimal body temperature for locomotor performance.
Chen, Y.-H. & Tu, M.-C. & Huang, S.-P. (2013) -
The geographic distribution of species can be affected by environmental factors. The adult highaltitude lizard Takydromus hsuehshanensis (altitude > 1800 m) has been shown to tolerate summer lowland air temperature; its absence in lowland areas may therefore be caused by other factors. We employed a transplant experiment to monitor survival in different life stages and female reproduction in lowland areas. We maintained the T. hsuehshanensis adults in semi-natural outdoor enclosures with sufficient food, water, and the exclusion of potential predators. The results showed that (1) the survival rates of adults gradually decreased to 23.4% from one summer to the next, (2) illness occurred in adults during the winter, and (3) reproductive capacity (2 eggs/female), hatching success (31.7%), and hatchling survival rate (0% at the end of 11 weeks) were very low during the active season. We suggest that environmental factors synergistically caused these impairments in T. hsuehshanensis across different life stages and different seasons. This may partially explain its current altitudinal distribution.
Chen, Y.-H. & Huang, S.-P. & Chang, M.-H. & Tu, M.-C. (2010) -
Among the life stages of oviparous reptiles, embryo and hatchling are particularly susceptible to temperatures. Since temperature decreases with altitude, the upper altitudinal limit of some lowland species could be related to the temperature requirement for embryogenesis. The endemic grass lizard Takydromus stejnegeri is widely distributed at altitudes below 1000 m in Taiwan. In this study, we examined the thermal effects on embryogenesis of this species and evaluated its potential influence on current altitudinal distribution of T. stejnegeri. We measured some indices of embryogenesis and hatchling after incubation at 5 constant temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, and 33°C). The results revealed that (1) hatching success increased with temperatures from 15°C to 20°C, reached 100% at 25°C and 30°C, and then declined at 33°C; and (2) the incubation duration increased with decreasing temperatures. Based on polynomial regression analysis, we predicted the development of embryos would cease at 16°C. Comparing the monthly average temperature at 3 different altitudes, we found that the T. stejnegeri would have an incubation success <100 % at areas higher than 1000 m (monthly average soil temperature < 25°C), and its eggs would not have enough time to hatch in the areas above 1600 m. We assumed that the temperature requirement for embryogenesis could be a limiting factor for the current altitudinal distribution of T. stejnegeri.
Cheng, H.-Y. (1987) -
The present results indicate the name of Takydromus stejnegeri in Taiwan should be valid. With another close-related Taiwanese species (Takydromus formosanus), T. stejnegeri is distinct from Takydromus septentrionalis from mainland in the smaller body size but with the more longitudinal rows of dorsals. Takydromus stejnergeri is different from T. formonsanus in the lesser femoral pores and lesser longitudinal rows of dorsals extending to tail area.
鄭先祐 (1987) -
本研究結果顯示Takydromus stejnegeri Van Denburgh應是臺灣産蓬萊草蜥之正確學名。蓬萊草蜥與另一相近種,臺灣草蜥(Takydromus formosanus Boulenger),在身體大小與背鱗縱行列數排列上,不同於大陸産的北草蜥(Takydromus septentrionalis Gunther)。蓬萊草蜥在鼠蹊孔的數目及背鱗縱行延伸到尾巴之列數特徵上,與臺灣草蜥不同。
Cheng, H.-Y. & Lin, J.-I. (1977) -
Cheng, H.-Y. & Lin, J.Y. (1987) -
The female Takydromus stejnegeri in Taiwan has a definite breeding season from March to August . Most females produced two clutches but a few females may produce one or three clutches a year. The number of eggs per clutch for most clutches was 2 (with range from 1 to 4). The clutch size increased significantly during the breeding season. The smailest and largest mature females were 41mm and 57mm in snout-vent length, respectively. Most newly hatched individuals (<25mm in snout-vent length) occur from May to September. Fat body size was inversely correlated with reproduction. The mean liver weights peak in June. Both annual mean liver and fat body weights of T. stejnegeri females were similar to those of males during this same period.
Cheng, W.-C. (2015) -
Livestock husbandry is one of the most important human activities in arid regions of the planet and is the predominant driver of environmental degradation in Mediterranean ecosystems. Nonetheless, despite the very long history of animal husbandry in this region, relatively little is known on the relationship between livestock grazing and the provisioning of ecosystem services in a Mediterranean setting. Methods. This study focuses on mediterranean heathlands (‘phrygana’), a species-rich plant community that is widespread over large areas of the Mediterranean Basin, and a habitat subjected to goat and sheep grazing for almost 10,000 years. We evaluate multiple trophic levels of this community (including vegetation condition and structure, floral resources, as well as populations of primary and secondary consumers), across a spectrum of livestock grazing intensities in island ecosystems in the Aegean Sea (Greece). We also evaluated some of the important ecosystem services provided by phryganic habitats to local human communities, including vegetation productivity, erosion protection, pollination services, disease dilution, and maintenance of biodiversity. Results. Results show that all measured aspects of vegetation condition and structure (vegetation biomass, canopy cover, basal cover, plant species richness and plant diversity) decline monotonically with rising levels of livestock grazing. Furthermore, while increasingly higher herbivore stocking rates result in diminished floral resources, the effects on pollinator populations and diversity are more equivocal. Secondary consumers (Podarcis wall lizards) appear to benefit the most from intermediate levels of grazing intensity. However, foraging rates by honey bees (Apis mellifera), an economically important species in the region, decline as livestock herbivory rates rise, suggesting that there are direct tradeoffs between livestock husbandry and apiculture in these landscapes. Conclusions. Impacts of livestock husbandry on local ecosystems depend on stocking rates used. While at low stocking rates, grazing appears to have either equivocal or both positive and negative effects on different ecosystem services, at higher stocking rates these effects become mostly negative. While there is no specific stocking rate that is likely to minimize all impacts, our results suggest that intensive grazing has clear negative ecological consequences in terms of lost ecosystem services.
Chenuil, C. (1991) -
Chergui, B. & Fahd, S. & Santos, X. (2019) -
Socioeconomic factors (e.g. rural abandonment, monoculture plantations) and global warming are changing fire regimes (fire intensity, extent, and frequency) in fire-prone regions such as the Mediterranean Basin. Understanding the factors that shape responses of animal communities to fire is a key objective for biodiversity conservation. Given the substitution of native forests to pine plantations in many regions of the world, we studied whether forest type influences the responses to fire of reptile communities, in the African rim of the Western Mediterranean. Reptiles were sampled and vegetation structure measured in 2015 and 2016. We used generalized linear mixed models to examine the influence of fire, forest type (cork oak and pine), habitat structure and climate factors on two reptile-community metrics (abundance, species richness). Given possible differences in reptile detectability between unburnt and burnt transects, we used distance sampling models to estimate the density of the five commonest reptile species. The response of reptiles to fire varied between the two forest types: reptile abundance did not change with fire in cork oak forest, and increased with fire in pine plantation. Species richness was higher in cork oak forests, and increased from unburnt to burnt areas. Two out of five commonest lizards in the region, Acanthodactylus erythrurus and Podarcis vaucheri, responded positively to fire in pine plantation and remained similar in cork oak forest. Reptile communities were more similar between burnt and unburnt cork oak forests than between burnt and unburnt pine plantations, due to the reduced effect of fire on the former tree (a resprouter species) than on the latter (a seeder species). This work is the first field-based study examining the effects of fire on animal communities from north-western Africa. Overall, our results show that the response of reptiles to fire is shaped by forest type, and this conclusion has to be considered in fire-prone regions.
Chergui, B. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Fahd, S. & Santos, X. (2020) -
Fire is one of the main disturbances to terrestrial environments, transforming habitat structure and affecting community composition. Coupled with fire, forest type and vegetation structure modulate the taxonomic response to fire by ectotherm organisms such as reptiles. The response of each reptile species to fire is based on their functional attributes, which make some species resilient to fire and others vulnerable to that disturbance and only adapted to long-unburnt landscapes. We studied the functional response of a reptile community at 13 burnt sites within the African rim of the Western Mediterranean, and in two contrasting forest types, i.e. native cork oak forests (five sites) and pine plantations (eight sites). We compiled seven functional traits for the reptile species in the study areas, and quantified reptile functional diversity at each sampled plot. Variation in this index was examined from burnt to nearby unburnt plots, both in cork oak and pine forests, with generalized linear mixed models. Redundancy analysis was used to identify which functional traits were associated with particular plot types. We found 2149 individual reptiles from 15 species. The functional response of reptiles to fire was forest-type dependent: functional richness did not change with fire in cork oak forest plots, but increased with fire in the pine plantation ones. High reptile functional richness in cork oak plots was due to high species richness in this forest type. The functional-redundancy analysis showed that cork oak forest hosts a reptile community functionally composed of small Mediterranean ground- and rock-dwelling lizards. In pine plantation plots, however, saxicolous geckos and phytophagous tortoises indicate the availability of other microhabitat and food resources to be exploited by reptile species with different functional traits.
Cherlin, V. & Okshtein, I. & Alieva, S. & Magomedova, A. (2022) -
Variants of estimating the number of different lizard species in natural populations are proposed. In one sense or another, we are talking about an accounting site of a known area. But depending on the biological features of different lizard species, the accounting indicators may be different: either it is a fixation of the total number of lizards living on the accounting site (which is possible for the toad-headed agama Phrynocephalus mystaceus), or it is a fixation of the number of lizards encounters on accounting routes of a certain length and width, i.e. a certain area (which is possible for the steppe runner Eremias arguta). Correction coefficients should be introduced into the accounting results, which should take into account that: 1) the distribution of lizards across the territory is uneven due to microbiotopic differences (K1), 2) not all lizards that live in the this territory may be active on the surface every day (K2), 3) when using different registration methods, primary accounting data allow registering a different proportions of lizards from their total number inhabiting this site (K3). After such an adjustment of the accounting results, it is possible to calculate the density of lizard settlements and the absolute number of lizards for any separate sections of entire territories. As a result of our work, we have so far determined the composition of these coefficients. Subsequent studies should lead to the development of standardized methods for determining these coefficients. According to our calculations, the density of the population of toad-headed agamas in the area of their most compact habitat on the large Sarykum dune can be up to 125 individuals/ha, and their total number can be estimated at about 7000-7500 individuals. For steppe runners, their population density in places of compact habitat in the vicinity of the small Sarykum dune can be 18.0-23.4 ind./ha, and their total number in the area of about 9 ha, where we carried out our research work, could be 180-220 individuals. By standardizing the methods of evaluating different species of lizards, it is possible to organize correct long-term monitoring of the state of their populations.
Cherlin, V.A. (1988) -
Cherlin, V.A. (2019) -
Background. The reptilian thermobiology is the most important factor determining their ecology, spatial and temporal structure of activity and biotopical distribution. But the mechanisms of this process are poorly understood. This article describes the results of studies illustrating the specific mechanisms of the influence of certain thermophysiological characteristics and characteristics of thermoregulation in two sympatric species of racerunners on their ecology and their biotopical selection in Kyzylkum desert. Materials and methods. In the Kyzylkum desert we studied the thermophysiological characteristics of the full activity and temperature stabilization ranges, as well as the thermoregulation techniques in two species of racerunners. Also, in this area we studied the climatic conditions in different biotopes. All the data obtained were associated with observations of the spatial and temporal structure of the daily activity of lizards and their biotopical preferences. Results. The aralo-caspian racerunner is noticeably less thermophilic in thermobiological indicators than the striped racerunner. The temperatures of full activity in the aralo-caspian racerunner are 32,3–39,0º, the range of temperature stabilization is 34,0–35,5º. In the striped racerunner, these indicators are 34,5–41,0º and 35,5–37,0º, respectively. For some morphological and physiological reasons, under the same conditions, the body in aralo-caspian racerunner heats up faster than in striped racerunner. Striped racerunners, unlike aralo-caspian ones, can actively use the lower branches of bushes for thermoregulation, i.e. to separate their body from the hot soil during the warmest part of day. Conclusions. The thermobiological characters and the manner of thermoregulation lead to differences in the spatial-temporal activity structure and biotopical differences between aralo-caspian and striped racerunners: the striped racerunners have the ability to use and actually use more open spaces for activity and a hotter time of day, while aralo-caspian ones use more matted areas with openwork or dense shadow, with shrubs and trees, and are active at more fresh time of day.
Chernov, S.A. (1934) -
Chernov, S.A. (1948) -
Chernov, S.A. (1954) -
Chetanov, N.A. & Eplanova, G.V. (2011) -
We carried out total statistical analysis of fluctuating asymmetry of bilateral traits (number of femoral pores - P.f. and number of supralabial scales - Lab.) for two populations of Zootoca vivipara from Perm region. For integral estimation of FA value, using algorithm of convolution, statistically significant differences between studied populations were found in male`s sample and in the united sample of males and females. We found that there is no statistically significant difference (using χ2 criteria) in occurrence frequency between two studied populations.
Chevalier, M. (1969) -
Chevalier, M. & Dufaure, J.-P. & Lecher, P. (1979) -
The karyotypes of 4 european species of Lacertidae were determined in hepatic tissue cultures. The chromosomal formula typical of the Lacertidae (2n = 36M + 2 m) was found in L. muralis, L. sicula campestris and L. viridis; no morphologically differentiated sex chromosomes were identified in these 3 species. A population of L. vivipara caught in the Massif Central (France) shows the following diploid number: 2 n ~ ? = 3 2 A + Z a Z~ W, 2 n d = 3 2 A + Z ~ Z~ Z2Z2. The existence of the submetacentric W in the female karyotype can be explained by centric fusion between two non homologous telocentric chromosomes. It is possible that only some populations show this rearrangement. The finding of two types of heterogamety, XY and ZW, in the same Order contributes to our knowledge of the evolution of sex chromosomes among Vertebrates.
Cheylan, M. (1972) -
Cheylan, M. (1975) -
Cheylan, M. (1978) -
Cheylan, M. (1983) -
Cheylan, M. (1984) -
Cheylan, M. (1988) -
The phenotypic variation of two live color patterns and eight scale characters was investigated in geographical samples of the Wali Lizard Podarcis muralis. Ten insular populations from the French Mediterranean region were compared with several mainland populations. Our data indicate a strong decrease of phenotypic variability in populations inhabiting the smaller islands (surface up to 3 hectares), but not in sampies from larger islands (the latter being as variable as mainland samples). This agrees weil with the results of electrophoretic surveys of other vertebrate taxa, and allows us to consider it as a general phenomenon. Our own findings and those of others are used to explain conflicting results which, in our opinion, were based upon a too small sample of insular cases . The underlying mechanisms which are supposed to account for the polymorphism of insular populations are briefly discussed
Cheylan, M. (1999) -
Cheylan, M. (2008) -
Cheylan, M. (2013) -
Cheylan, M. (2016) -
Se documenta el proceso de extinción del lagarto ocelado Timon lepidus en la isla de Porquerolles (Provenza, Francia). Las prospecciones realizadas en 2001 y 2002 con el objetivo de volver a encontrar la especie fueron negativas. A partir de esto se infiere que la especie se extinguió en la década de 2000. Las causas de la desaparición de la especie son controvertidas y parecen deberse a una evolución desfavorable de los hábitats y a la depredación que ejerce el faisán vulgar, introducido en los años 1970.
Cheylan, M. & Grillet, P. (2003) -
Cheylan, M. & Astruc, G. & Bernier, C. (2007) -
Cheylan, M. & Cluchier, A. (2004) -
Cheylan, M. & Corti, C. & Sindaco, R. & Romano, A. (2009) -
Cheylan, M. & Crochet, P.-A. (2012) -
Cheylan, M. & Doré, F. & Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.-M. (2022) -
Cheylan, M. & Grillet, P. (2004) -
Cheylan, M. & Grillet, P. (2005) -
The ocellated lizard is a typical species of Mediterranean open grounds. Its former and current geographic distribution are studied at national and local scales by means of various sources: inquiries with naturalists, field search, bibliographical and museum search. This analysis shows a decline of the species during the last 150 years, the result being a fragmentation of the distribution area and the loss of at least six continental populations, and of one to two insular populations out of the three historically known. These losses concern not only isolated populations at the edge of the distribution area, but also Mediterranean populations. The destruction and current evolution of the habitats seem to be mostly responsible for this decline, especially open grounds reafforestation due to rural exodus. This thermophilous species doesn’t seem to have taken benefit of the climatic reheating attested during the considered period. The present situation is probably more a consequence of changes in human activities than the result of climatic modifications.
Cheylan, M. & Grillet, P. (2010) -
Cheylan, M. & Grillet, P. & Doré, F. (2011) -
Cheylan, M. & Grillet, P. & Pottier, G. & Grisser, P. (2012) -
Cheylan, M. & Guillaume, C.P. (2012) -
Cheylan, M. & Riviére, V. (2020) -
On 2 May 2019, on the Grand Rouveau island (Embiez Archipelago in the French department of Var), we observed three common wall lizards - Podarcis muralis – feeding on the nectar of Lotus cytisoides flowers. This is the first known case of nectarivory observed in this species. This observation leads to several hypotheses regarding the appearance of certain behaviour in insular populations of Mediterranean lizards.
Chiacchio, M. & Grimm-Seyfarth, A. & Henle, K. (2021) -
Chiacchio, M. & Rödder, D. & Henle, L. & Grimm-Seyfarth, A. (2024) -
Alpine ecosystems harbour a rich and highly specialised biodiversity, which is particularly susceptible to anthropogenic disturbances such as habitat loss and fragmentation as well as to climate change. Combined with other forms of land-use conversion, construction and maintenance of ski resorts can have severe consequences on alpine biodiversity. In this study, we show how one amphibian and two reptile species, namely Rana temporaria, Zootoca vivipara and Vipera berus, respond to such impacts by means of a multi-season occupancy analysis. We found all three species both in and outside ski-runs, showing that these habitats do not necessarily preclude their occurrence. Contrarily, this is influenced more by microhabitat availability, such as ground vegetation, humid areas and rock cover, rather than by macro-characteristics like elevation or habitat type. Moreover, we found a climatic influence on the year-to-year occupancy change of the species, with activity-month conditions being more relevant than overwintering ones. Our results demonstrate how, in the specific case of reptiles and amphibians, ski resorts do not necessarily limit species` occurrence and that a mild series of management actions might secure the species` persistence in the area.
Chieffi Baccari, G. & Matteo, L. di & Minucci, S. (1995) -
The orbital glands of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula are represented by the anterior and posterior lacrimal glands and the Harderian gland. The anlage of the Harderian gland appears on about the 22nd day of development in the form of a short tubule projecting from the conjunctival epithelium. This event is coincident with the appearance of the nictitating membrane. At this stage the mesenchymal cells surrounding the glandular blastema proliferate at a high rate and form a definite sac, later occupied by both the Harderian gland and the anterior lacrimal glands. At the 26th day of development, the glandular blastema forms acini at its distal end. The prospective glandular cells are not yet differentiated histologically. At the 36th day of development, differentiated serous glandular cells become visible. At the 41st day of development, the acini fill up the preformed mesenchymal sac. Only at this stage does the most medial part of the gland differentiate into mucous-secreting anterior lacrimal gland. At the same time, a small primordium of the posterior lacrimal gland can be seen in the posterior commissure of the eye. The appearance of junctional complexes between epithelial cells and mesenchymal cells in the early developmental stages supports the role of the mesenchyme in the differentiation of the glandular cells. Since the glandular anlage differentiates laterally into Harderian gland and medially into anterior lacrimal gland, spatial and temporal differences seem to exist in the ekinductive process. Furthermore, a concentration gradient of the inductive substance(s) may be envisaged, since an intermediate zone is present between the Harderian gland and the anterior lacrimal gland, consisting of mixed glandular cells containing both mucous and serous secretory granules.
Chieffi Baccari, G. & Minucci, S. & Matteo, L. di & Chieffi, G. (1990) -
Chieffi, P. & d`Amato, L.C. & Guarino, F. & Salvatiore, G. & Angelini, F. (2002) -
There are always more evidences indicating that 17β-estradiol (E2) is necessary for normal male fertility. We have used a nonmammalian vertebrate model (the lizard Podarcis s. sicula) to investigate the regulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) activity in the testis during the annual sexual cycle and to study whether E2 exerts a role in the spermatogenesis through ERK1/2 activity. Immunocytochemistry analysis shows that ERK1/2 proteins are present in the nucleus of the spermatogonia (SPG), and in primary (I) spermatocytes (SPC). The annual E2 profile shows a progressive increase during the active spermatogenesis (from April to June) and a peak in the month of August (spermatogonial mitosis). In parallel, ERK1/2 (molecular weight 44 and 42 kDa, respectively) are highly phosphorylated during the period of active spermatogenesis and in post-refractory period (August) compared with the winter stasis (from November to March). Present results demonstrate that E2 treatment induces spermatogonial proliferation, possibly via the activation of ERK1/2, and this effect is counteracted by the antiestrogen ICI 182-780.
Childers, J.L. (2016) -
Phylogenetic relationships among the 13 currently recognized species of Pedioplanis were analyzed using nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. Previous measures of species diversity within the genus appear to be underestimated, as novel, undescribed lineages were found within P. lineoocellata, P. namaquensis and the P. undata species complex. Further fine-scaled population genetic analyses were conducted to assess levels of genetic admixture, identify potential hybrid zones and uncover historical demographic patterns. Within P. lineoocellata, my results show that the three currently recognized subspecies do not represent independently evolving lineages. Further analyses suggest a South African origin of the species, with a subsequent northern expansion during the late Miocene. P. namaquensis appears to be comprised of two distinct and highly divergent lineages, furthermore the Orange River appears to represent a geographic barrier between them. Finally, interspecific relationships within the P. undata complex appear to be more complicated than previously thought as instances of paraphyly, polyphyly and several novel lineages were all revealed by the phylogenetic analyses.
Childers, J.L. & Eifler, D.A. (2015) -
We characterised behavioural variation between adult male, adult female and juvenile Meroles cuneirostris, a diurnal lacertid lizard endemic to the Namib Desert. Variation in microhabitat preference was significant between age classes, as adults spent more time underneath vegetative cover than juveniles. Movement patterns varied between demographic classes as juveniles exhibited movements of higher average durations than adults overall, and spent a greater percentage of time moving than adult females. Juveniles turned their heads more often than adults; all individuals scan their surroundings more frequently in the open sand and near vegetation. An analysis of foraging behaviour indicates that M. cuneirostris exhibits relatively few movements per minute (MPM) and a wide range of percentage of time spent moving (PTM), making it difficult to categorise this species as either an ambush or active forager. Furthermore, intraspecific variation in foraging behaviour within this species exists, as adult males and juveniles exhibited higher PTM values than adult females.
Childers, J.L. & Kirchhof, S. & Bauer, A.M. (2021) -
The lacertid genus Pedioplanis is a moderately speciose group of small-bodied, cryptically-colored lizards found in arid habitats throughout southern Africa. Previous phylogenetic work on Pedioplanis has determined its placement within the broader context of the Lacertidae, but interspecific relations within the genus remain unsettled, particularly within the P. undata species complex, a group largely endemic to Namibia. We greatly expanded taxon sampling for members of the P. undata complex and other Pedioplanis, and generated molecular sequence data from 1,937 bp of mtDNA (ND2 and cyt b) and 2,015 bp of nDNA (KIF24, PRLR, RAG-1) which were combined with sequences from GenBank resulting in a final dataset of 455 individuals. Both maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses recover similar phylogenetic results and reveal the polyphyly of P. undata and P. inornata as presently construed. We con- firm that P. husabensis is sister to the group comprising the P. undata complex plus the Angolan sister species P. huntleyi + P. haackei and demonstrate that P. benguelensis lies outside of this clade in its entirety. The complex itself comprises six species including P. undata, P. inornata, P. rubens, P. gaerdesi and two previously undescribed entities. Based on divergence date estimates, the P. undata species complex began diversifying in the late Miocene (5.3 ± 1.6 MYA) with the most recent cladogenetic events dating to the Plio- cene (2.6 ± 1.0 MYA), making this assemblage relatively young compared to the genus Pedioplanis as a whole, the origin of which dates back to the mid-Miocene (13.5 ± 1.8 MYA). Using an integrative approach, we here describe Pedioplanis branchi sp. nov. and Pedioplanis mayeri sp. nov. representing northern populations previously assigned to P. inornata and P. undata, respectively. These entities were first flagged as possible new species by Berger-Dell’mour and Mayer over thirty years ago but were never formally described. The new species are supported chiefly by differences in coloration and by unique amino acid substitutions. We provide comprehensive maps depicting historical records based on museum specimens plus new records from this study for all members of the P. undata complex and P. husabensis. We suggest that climatic oscillations of the Upper Miocene and Pliocene-Pleistocene era in concert with the formation of biogeographic barriers have led to population isolation, gene flow restrictions and ultimately cladogenesis in the P. undata complex.
Chirikova, M.A. (1999) -
Chirikova, M.A. (2000) -
Chirikova, M.A. (2004) -
Sexual dimorphism, age and geographical variability of 254 specimens of Eremias velox from 20 localities of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan were studied. Sexual dimorphism found to be clearly manifested in some metric characters, amount of abdominal shields and peculiarities of preanal region pholidosis. It is suggested to use males for the examining of ecological relations, as they demonstrate more adaptive peculiarities of given characters, whereas females are more suitable for phylogenetic analysis. Some peculiarities of age variability are demonstrated. Cline variability is shown from west to east for the following characters: body length, head length, head width, rear limb length. The rate of cline variability is less in Alakol Depression. Females, however, demonstrated the decreasing of body length meaning from west to east. The largest body size in South-East Kzyl-Kum population suggesting, probably, that the most favorable conditions for this species is located in the region mentioned. Contrary, the conditions in the Alakol Depression are less favorable. Variations of coloration are described for E. velox. It is shown that the specter of head pholidosis is distinct from other species within Eremias genus, having 1-7 scales in between of parietal and interparietal shields. Eastern Kazakhstan populations are distinct from others by several characters, including peculiarities of pholidosis.
Чирикова М.А. (2014) -
Изучены половой диморфизм, возраст и географическая изменчивость 254 особей Eremias velox из 20 населенных пунктов Казахстана и Узбекистана. Установлено, что половой диморфизм отчетливо проявляется в некоторых метрических признаках, количестве щитов живота и особенностях фолидоза преанальной области. Предлагается использовать мужчин для изучения экологических отношений, так как они демонстрируют более адаптивные особенности данных персонажей, тогда как женщины больше подходят для филогенетического анализа. Показаны некоторые особенности возрастной изменчивости. Изменчивость клина показана с запада на восток для следующих символов: длина тела, длина головы, ширина головы, длина задней конечности. Скорость вариабельности клина меньше при депрессии Алаколя. Самки, однако, продемонстрировали уменьшение длины тела с запада на восток. Самый большой размер тела в популяции Юго-Восточного Кызылкума, что, вероятно, указывает на то, что наиболее благоприятные условия для этого вида находятся в упомянутом регионе. Наоборот, условия в Алакольской депрессии менее благоприятны. Вариации окраски описаны для E. velox. Показано, что спектр головного фолидоза отличается от других видов рода Eremias, имеющих 1-7 чешуй между париетальным и межпариетальным щитами. Население Восточного Казахстана отличается от других несколькими признаками, включая особенности фолидоза.
Chirikova, M.A. (2005) -
407 specimens of Eremias arguta, 140 specimens of E. intermedia and 271 specimens of E. velox from Kazakhstan and adjacent areas were examined in respect of pholidosis variability. 24 pholidosis characters of head and preanal region and 2 pholidosis characters of rear limbs were analyzed. Resulting from analysis, we divide E. arguta into three main groups. First group comprises animals from Volgograd District (Russia) and, partially, animals from Western Kazakhstan. Second group includes the rest of Western Kazakhstan samples, North Aral Sea Region, Eastern Kazakhstan and some specimens from Semirechje. Specimens from Kzylkum sands, Karatau ridge and environs of Kopa station were referred to as third group. The rate of specimens with increased amount of shields before the 2nd supraocular shield trends to gradual grow westward and southward. E. intermedia shows no significant differences within range of species distribution in Kazakhstan. Most variable E. velox from Western Kazakhstan are characterized with absente or only single scute between frontal and supraocular shields. Most variable temporal region were documented for eastern samples.
Chirikova, M.A. (2006) -
In present work the data on morphological variability of the Stepperunner from 6 populations of the Aral Sea Basin are resulted. Data analysis has shown that the lizards from the northern regions of Aral Sea Basin reliably differ from those inhabited the southwestern regions in length and width of a head, attitude of head length to length of a trunk, length of hind limb and its attitude to trunk length, number of scales around 9-10 tail segments and pattern of coloration.
Chirikova, M.A. (2007) -
Chirikova, M.A. (2010) -
77 specimens of the Sand Racerrunner, Eremias scripta (Strauch, 1867) from 5 populations of Kazakhstan were studied and compared in respect of 9 metric and 6 pholidosis characters. The differences between the lizards from Aral Sea Basin and Balkhash Lake Basin regions have been shown in number of scales around body (Sq), scales around 9-10 tail rings (SQCD) and color pattern. The differences in number of SQCD and color pattern were also revealed between the specimens from the sands of South Balkhash Region and isolated Barmakkum Sands in Alakol Depression.
Chirikova, M.A. & Ananjeva, N. & Dubjansky, V. & Castellano, S. (1998) -
Chirikova, M.A. & Berezovikov, N.N. (2015) -
Data on the spread of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758) in the southeast area of its habitat, in the adjacent parts of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and China have been generalized. Cadastral maps with the exact location of 217 occurrences have been compiled. The habitat boundary of the sand lizard in the Southern Balkhash region has been refined. The mountains in the east and southeast of Kazakhstan are an important focus of L. agilis in the country. The maximum limit of the vertical distribution of the species (2,084 m above the sea level) was recorded in the Central Tien Shan. The most typical habitats of L. agilis are grass and sagebrush steppes with mosaic bushes of spirea, caragana and ferrule to promote the penetration of lizards into the mountains along wide river valleys and gorges. In the plains of the southeastern part of its habitat, the sand lizard is a mesophilic species. Its settling over the desert occurs mainly along rivers and manmade landscapes (roadside afforestations, the embankments of roads and railways, irrigation ditch systems, and irrigation canals).
Чирикова М.А., Березовиков Н.Н. (2015) -
Обобщены сведения по распространению прыткой ящерицы (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758) на юго-востоке ареа-ла в сопредельных частях Казахстана, Киргизии и Китая. Составлены кадастровые карты, содержащие точное местоположение 217 мест находок. Уточнена граница распространения прыткой ящерицы в Южном Прибалхашье. Горы Востока и Юго-Востока Казахстана являются важнейшим очагом обитания L. agilis в республике. Максимальный предел вертикального распространения вида 2084 м над уровнем моря отмечен в Цен-тральном Тянь-Шане. Наиболее типичными местами обитания L. agilis являются злаковые и полынные степи с мозаичными зарослями спиреи, караганы и ферулы, способствующими проникновению ящерицы в горы по широким речным долинам и ущельям. В равнинных районах юго-восточной части своего ареала прыткая ящерица является мезофильным видом. Расселение в пустыни происходит главным образом вдоль русел рек и по антропогенным ландшафтам: придорожные лесонасаждения, насыпи автомобильных и железных дорог, арычные системы и оросительные каналы.
Chirikova, M.A. & Dubjansky, V.M. & Dujsebayeva, T.N. (2002) -
208 specimens of Lacerta agilis exigua from 11 localities of Western, Central and Eastern Kazakhstan have been studied, and compared in respect of their body proportions and scalation. The sexual dimorphism of some characters (Ventr., L.ta/L.a) is shown. Maximum body length (SVL) and anal index (L.ta/L.a) is recorded for the specimens from the southern populations (Taldy-Kurgan, Aktyubinsk). A maximum number of scales around the mid-body (Sq) has found in Semipalatinsk, Aktyubinsk, and Uralsk localities. The increasing of Ventr. in two directions: from west to east and from south to north is shown. A cline variation is shown for scale correlation in the postnasal region. The frequency of 2/1 combination increases from east to west, while 1/2 and 1/1 combinations change in opposite direction. The variation of preanals with an additional shield between two enlarged ones is shown for 10 (except of Ayaguz) localities.
Chirikova, M.A. & Dujsebayeva, T. & Belialov, O.V. (2007) -
Chirikova, M.A. & Dujsebayeva, T. & Liu, J. & Guo, X. (2019) -
Phenotypic traits are usually correlated with the environment where organism occurs. In this study, the distribution of Eremias velox in the eastern periphery of its range was specified, and its morphological variation was analyzed. Linear dimensions, pholidosis, coloration and pattern features were compared among 135 specimens from nine populations inhabiting the Balkhash, Ili and Alakol basins, Junggar and Turpan depressions in the territory of Southeast Kazakhstan and Xinjiang, Northwest China. The populations from the Junggar Depression (Kuytun, Shihezi and Urumqi) were characterized by higher mean values of linear characters, the number of scales across the middle of the body and gular, and were similar in the dominant coloration patterns. Small size, dark coloration and almost complete dominance of the striped-type coloration pattern among the specimens from the Alakol Lake islands seem to have an adaptive significance associated with the isolation of the population and type of their habitats. The subspecies Eremias velox roborowskii (endemic to the Turpan Depression) is elevated to species level, as supported by morphological divergence congruent with molecular and geographical data, including its peculiar type of coloration pattern, significantly lower amount of femoral pores and a higher percentage of specimens with one enlarged preanal scale (72.7%). These results together confirm a high degree of variability in morphology for E. veloх in the eastern periphery of its range, reflecting a complex orography and the existence of multiple geographical barriers in this territory.
Chirikova, M.A. & Kolbinzev, W.G. (2003) -
Morphology and subspecies of Eremias arguta (PALLAS, 1773), in Kazakhstan. The external morphology of Eremias arguta in Kazakhstan was examined. Three metric and ten meristic characters as well as the dorsal pattern of 206 individuals from 13 populations of southern, south-eastern and eastern Kazakhstan were analyzed. Sexual dimorphism was found to occur in relative tail length (fem. > males), number of longitudinal gular scales (fem. < males), and number of femoral pores (fem. < males). Clinal variation exists in the number of dorsals, gulars, femoral pores, and scales between femoral pores. Most of populations studied revealed a pattern of large white spots and transverse dark strips. Some specimens from eastern Kazakhstan are characterized by small white spots and interrupted, somewhat fused dark strips. Most southern populations show elongated white spots and irregular black spots scattered along the dorsum. Subspecies status of the steppe-runners from eastern Kazakhstan is still unclear and needs future clarification. Populations from south-eastern Kazakhstan are closer to E. arguta potanini. Southernmost populations belong to E. a. uzbekistanica.
Chirikova, M.A. & Korneychuk, V.P. (2000) -
Chirikova, M.A. & Liu, J. & Guo, X. (2016) -
Wir haben die bekannten Daten zur Verbreitung der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) an ihrem östlichen Arealrand (Xinjiang, China) zusammengefasst, einschließlich der Informationen, die bei Forschungsexpeditionen in den Jahren 2013-2014 gesammelt wurden. Die Grenze des Lebensraumes der Zauneidechse in China schließt sich eng an die Ausläufer des Altai-, des Saur-Tarbagatai- sowie des Borochoro- und des östlichen Tien-Shan-Gebirges an. Über interzonale Lebensräume dringt die Art bis in das semi-aride Tiefland vor.
Chirikova, M.A. & Malakhov, D.V. (2023) -
The ecological-niche models for two sympatric species, Eremias lineolata (Nikolsky, 1897) and Eremias scripta (Strauch, 1867), reveal evidence of spatial and temporal disjunction in the actual niches of both species. Eremias lineolata demonstrates a wide range of adaptations and, at the same time, has a greater need for winter precipitation and minimal temperature than E. scripta. Possible explanations for the thermal diversity of both species are provided. Thermal variables (monthly temperatures, monthly solar radiation, etc.) are traditionally important for ectotherm animals. Interestingly, as many as half of the key variables in both species are related to different aspects of environmental water balance (precipitation, air humidity, vapor pressure). There are several ways in which moisture may impact the lizard’s life cycle. Soil humidity is related to soil temperature and may be important during winter hibernation. In summer, soil humidity may support successful embryogenesis. Precipitation during the warm months is a key factor in maintaining the moisture content of the soil. In winter, snow cover provides a better thermal balance of the soil’s top layers where winter shelters are housed. Ecological niche modeling (ENM) is an interdisciplinary approach combining the geographical, climatic, ecological, and biological aspects of the wellbeing of species. This interdisciplinary approach lifts biological studies onto a new, integrative level, providing a comprehensive view on species biology and answering the questions that might not be answered if the traditional methods for studying animals were used alone.
Chirikova, M.A. & Zima, Y.A. & Pestov, M.V. & Terentyev, V.A. (2020) -
Chirio, L. (1978) -
Results of 12 days fielwork on reptiles in Pendjari National Park (Benin).
Chirio, L. (1997) -
Chirio, L. (2000) -
Chirio, L. (2009) -
Data about West African non-avian reptiles still remain scarce and, in particular, bibliography provides little information about the herpetofauna in the WAP complex pro- tected areas (W Transfrontier Biosphere Reserve, Arly and Pendjari Parks). At the request of ECOPAS project and with CIRAD financing we undertook, from May 2006 to November 2007, an herpetologi- cal survey of the W Transfrontier Biosphere Reserve straddling three countries : Niger, Benin and Burkina Faso. This study allowed us to record 83 reptiles species, which represents a high biodiversity for an African savanna area ; moreover we discovered a new species of cobra of the Naja haje group during this study in the W Reserve. Biogeographic analysis shows that, besides five ubiquitous species, most of the reptile species of the area (70%) are typically Sudanese savanna ones ; however a 17 Sahe- lo-Saharan species group enters the northern part of the area, while three typically guinean species extend to the southern part of the reserve through forest galleries.
Chirio, L. & Blanc, C.P. (1997) -
An analysis of geographic distribution areas of the 41 taxa of Reptiles sampled or observed in the Aures massif is provided at two levels. At the overall level, eight groups of biogeographic affinities have been set apart; the number of mediterranean species (49 %) about equals that of saharian ones (46 %). 95 % of the total number of Reptiles species are of palearctic origin. At the regional level, we have distinguished three distribution types: (1) insular areas, isolated from populations of the neighbouring regions, with a continuous or a fragmented pattern in the Aurcs massif ; (2) parapatric areas with juxtaposed or overlapped ecological habitat ranges; (3) sympatric areas of allotopic or syntopic species. Hypothesis about origin and settlement of the Aures herpetofauna are infered.
Chirio, L. & Blanc, Ch.P. (1993) -
Two species of Ophisops, O. occidentalis and O. elegans (Lacertidae), occur in the Aures massif, Algeria, with a parapatric distribution. In relation to current ecological and bioclimatical factors, this situation is explained by an interspecific exclusion favouring O. occidentalis. Quaternary climatic modifications may have been responsible for wide variations in the distribution areas of Ophisops in Northern Africa, and account for their current geographical separation.
Chirio, L. & Ineich, I. (2006) -
A large number of reptiles from the Central African Republic (CAR) were collected during recent surveys conducted over six years (October 1990 to June 1996) and deposited at the Paris Natural History Museum (MNHN). This large collection of 4873 specimens comprises 86 terrapins and tortois- es, five crocodiles, 1814 lizards, 38 amphisbaenids and 2930 snakes, totalling 183 species from 78 local- ities within the CAR. A total of 62 taxa were recorded for the first time in the CAR, the occurrence of numerous others was confirmed, and the known distribution of several taxa is greatly extended. Based on this material and an additional six species known to occur in, or immediately adjacent to, the coun- try from other sources, we present a biogeographical analysis of the 189 species of reptiles in the CAR.
Chirio, L. & LeBreton, M. (2007) -
Chirio, L. & Lebreton, M. (2007) -
Chmela, C. (2003) -
Chmela, C. (2005) -
Chmelar, J. (2014) -
The European green lizard, Lacerta viridis, is in the Bohemia region stated as critically endangered species. Populations in this region are located beyond the northern border of continuous range of this species and are closely related to the „riverine phenomenon“, and deeply engorged river valleys. The chosen locality in Tiché údolí is a subject to a long-term conservational management aimed to strengthen and maintain abundance of the local population. This management is a direct output of a previous study of this population performed in years 1995-1997. Main goal of the presented study is to compare current population characteristics with the older study. The locality has been visited 119 times in years from 2011 to 2014. The studied population now displays higher abundance and inhabits a larger area. The author also performed a spatial analysis of the places with presence of an observed individual in order to determine and evaluate significance of the chosen abiotic factors for habitat discrimination. The results indicate that positive discrimination is based on the presence of a rock debris and a hiding place. Strongest factors towards negative discrimination were high percentages of grass and high vegetation coverage. This study also contains and discusses ecological, ethological and morphological data collected during the period of the research. Key words: European green lizard, Lacerta viridis, Tiché údolí, riverine phenomenon, spatial analysis, microhabitat, DFA, population characteristics.
Chmelar, J. & Civis, P. & Fischer, D. & Frynta, D. & Jerabkova, J. & Rehak, I. (2020) -
The European green lizard, Lacerta viridis (Laurenti, 1768), is listed in the Czech Republic as critically endangered. Its distribution in the Bohemia region is restricted to small isolated local populations which are located beyond the northern border of continuous range of this species and are closely related to very specific habitats. Populations in southern Moravia form the northwestern boundary of the continuous distribution of the species. Based on the statewide database of the Czech Nature Conservation Agency, we created a predictive model and determined key factors influencing the species distribution in the Czech Republic. The most relevant factors were: annual precipitation, terrain slope, average temperature of the warmest quarter and precipitation in the coldest quarter. The model is well compatible with published data on Lacerta viridis distribution in the Czech Republic and is applicable in both theory and practice of the species conservation – e.g. focusing faunistic research to certain areas, critical analysis of controversial presence reports and as an input for species management in the form of repatriation and introduction.
Chondropoulos, B. (1984) -
Chondropoulos, B.P. (1983) -
Chondropoulos, B.P. (1986) -
The Greek lizard fauna consists of 26 species from which 5 are monotypic and the other ones are represented by a total of 86 subspecies. Five species and 61 subspecies are endemic of Greece. A checklist including the geographical distribution of each taxon in the Greek region is presented.
Chondropoulos, B.P. (1997) -
Chondropoulos, B.P. & Chiras, G. (1997) -
Chondropoulos, B.P. & Fraguedakis, S. & Tsekoura, N. & Tryfonopoulos, G. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos E. (2000) -
The present study examines the genetic variability and the taxonomic relationships among five lacertid species, i.e. Podarcis taurica, P. milensis, P. peloponnesiaca, Lacerta graeca and Algyroides moreoti- cus, representing the three main genera of this family in Europe. The last four of the above species are endemic to Greece and three of them live sympatrically in Peloponnisos. These relationships were studied by allozyme analysis. Of the loci analyzed, the Mpi-1 locus was found to be a convenient molecular marker for discrimi- nation of the genera Podarcis(allele a), Lacerta(allele b) and Algyroides(allele c). The values of Nei’s genetic distances between the examined species ranged from 0.025 to 0.484. According to the UPGMA-dendrogram plotted using the Nei’s genetic distances, two species groups are formed indicating that the genera Lacertaand Algyroidesshow a stronger relationship to one another than either does to Podarcis. These results are in agree- ment with DNAsequence data but are not in accordance with previous electrophoretic and immunological studies, which suggest that Lacertais more closely related to Podarcis than to Algyroides. The studied Podarcistaxa were found to be close relatives (Nei’s distances <0.18), especially P. taurica and P. milensis. These values are lower than those usually given in the literature for the distinction of lacertid species.
Chondropoulos, B.P. & Lykakis, J.J. (1983) -
Podarcis taurica ionica is the dominant lizard species on most Ionian islands and is abundant in the western Greek mainland. Population densities range between 82 and 365 lizards/ha. The species occupies primarily habitats with low vegetation and is characterized by a high degree of seasonal color adaptation to its environment. Daily activity is bimodal during the largest part of the annual activity period. Many individuals (27.78-57.14%) show broken tails but both interpopulation and intersexual differences of injury frequencies are not significant. Hibernation usually lasts from early Nov. to late Feb. or early March. Females with oviductal and/or large ovarian eggs are present mainly from mid April to mid July, but the peak of gestation occurs from mid May to mid June. Normally there are two clutches per season. Hatching usually takes place from mid July or early Aug. to early Sept., after an incubation period of about 8-9 weeks. Sex ratio is usually near 1:1, and observed deviations are not significant. Clutch size ranges from 2 to 10 eggs (usually from 3 to 5 eggs), and is significantly larger in mainland populations. There is a positive correlation between SVL and clutch size in most populations studied.
Chondropoulos, B.P. & Maragou, P. & Valakos, E.D. (1993) -
Choopani, A. & Hojati, V. & Shiravi, A. (2014) -
Spermatogenic cycle in the Green-bellied lizard, Darevskia chlorogaster, was studied in forests of Sari County in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. Sampling took place periodically every 15 days during the activity period of this species, from 5 April to 20 October 2012. In total, 59 adult males were captured by hand. Testes were removed and processed for histological and morphometric studies. The results show that testes consist of 74.45 seminiferous tubules in average. The mean diameters of seminiferous tubules, lumen, tunica albuginea and germinal layer are 350.14, 162, 17.69 and 64.10 microns, respectively. Spermatogenesis begins in mid March to early April, reaching its peak in late May and early June, and ends between early to mid August. The maximum level of sperm production occurred in early June. The minimum diameter, weight and volume of testes were observed in early August. Four phases were observed during the spermatogenesis of this species: active, transitional, inactive and regenerative. Spermatogenesis of D. chlorogaster in Iran is seasonal and the type of spermatogenic cycle is associated.
Chou, W.-H. & Truong, N.Q. & Pauwels, O.S.G. (2001) -
We describe a green lacertid lizard, Takydromus hani, from central Vietnam. It differs from congeners in having 6-8 (versus 1-5) femoral pores on each thigh. The phylogenetic relationships of this continental form seem to be with T. sauteri of Taiwan, and T. toyamai and T. smaragdinus of the Ryukyu Archipelago.
Chouza Mata, M.S. & González, R.C. (1982) -
Christopoulos, A. (2018) -
Christopoulos, A. & Pantagaki, C.-F. & Poulakakis, N. & Pafilis, P. (2022) -
Urban habitats receive an increasing number of species due to anthropogenic activities, mainly transportations. Here, we report a new addition to the herpetofauna of Athens (Greece): a small population of the Pelasgian wall lizard (Anatololacerta pelasgiana) was found in a suburb of the Athenian metropolitan area. The species normally occurs in southwestern Anatolia and southeastern Aegean islands and this is the first record in the Greek mainland. Allochthonous species that successfully colonize cities raise new challenges to urban ecology.
Christopoulos, A. & Vlachopoulos, K. & Christopoulos, I. (2021) -
The distribution of herpetofauna in large parts of mainland Greece has not been studied extensively. This study covers a poorly-known herpetological area in Thessaly Region - Lake Karla’s Plain. We conducted 59 field surveys during 12 consecutive years (2008–2019) and recorded a total of 26 herpetofauna species: 4 anuran amphibians and 22 reptiles (5 tortoises and terrapins, 7 lizards and 10 snakes). Our study brings updates regarding the presence, distribution and the main threats for the herpetofauna of Lake Karla’s Plain, with 17 species being recorded here for the first time, including an alien freshwater turtle, Trachemys scripta.
Christopoulos, A. & Zogaris, D. & Karaouzas, I. & Zogaris, S. (2020) -
Ciarcia, G. (1993) -
Ciarcia, G. & Angelini, F. & Picariello, O. & D’Alterio, E. (1982) -
Ciarcia, G. & Angelini, F. & Polzonetti, A. & Zerani, M. & Botte, V. (1986) -
Ciarcia, G. & Botte, V. (1988) -
The distribution of immunoreactive GnRH-like substances in various tissues of the lizard {Podarcis s. sicula) in relation to different phases of the sexual cycle are described. GnRH-like substances in the hypothalamic extracts decrease during the reproductive period. In the extrahypothalamic tissue, the levels of immunoreactive GnRH-like substances are highest in early spring and summer, and decrease in autumn, winter and late spring. In the other tissues (gonads, liver and small intestine), a more constant immunoreactivity has been observed. All tissue extracts stimulate the release of luteininzing hormone (LH) from chicken anterior pituitary cells. In testis this phenomenon is more evident in early spring and sum- mer; in the other tissues, two peaks of activity can be detected, in spring and in autumn. These findings suggest that GnRH-like substances could be involved in the regulation of various aspects of reproductive processes in the lacertid Podarcis s. sicula Raf.
Ciarcia, G. & Cardone, A. & Paolucci, M. & Botte, V. (1996) -
The effects of the proopiomelanocortin- derived opioid peptide, beta-endorphin (p-EP), and of the opioid antagonist, naloxone (NAL), on both basal and pituitary-stimulated androgen secretion from superfused quiescent and active testes were assessed in the adult lizard, Podarcis sicula. In the absence of the homologous pituitary, in vitro treatment with p-EP and/or NAL did not affect basal secretion of androgens from quiescent and active testes. Conversely, in the presence of the homologous pituitary, treatment with p-EP brought about a decrease in androgen secretion in active testes, but no effect on quiescent ones. Naloxone counteracted the inhibitory effect of p-EP in active testes, and enhanced maximal pituitary-stimulated secretion of androgens in quiescent but not in active testes. The effects produces by p-endorphin and naloxone were reversible. These results suggest that, in this lizard, opioids might be involved in the control of androgen release. The lack of effect of p-EP and naloxone when added directly to the testes seems to suggest that the opioid agonist and antagonist act on androgen release by modulating pituitary gonadotrophin output.
Ciarcia, G. & Facchinetti, F. & Vallarino, M. & Pestarino, M. & Paolucci, M. & Cardone, A. & Fasano, S. & Pierantoni, R. & Genazzani, A.R. (1994) -
Ciarcia, G. & Paolucci, M. & Botte, V. (1989) -
The effects of various gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) forms (mammalian GnRH (mGnRH), chicken I GnRH (cGnRH-I), chicken II GnRH (cGnRH-II) and salmon GnRH (sGnRH)) on the genital apparatus and plasma testosterone level in the male lizard, Podarcis s. sicula, have been investigated. In short duration experiments (20 min to 76 h) GnRH forms did not affect testicular and epididymal morphology. A single dose (0.05 mug) of mGnRH, cGnRH-II and sGnRH, however, induced a rise in plasma testosterone after 20 to 40 min. Variable results were obtained in the animals given GnRH variants every 12 h for 3 days since mGnRH and cGnRH-I caused a decrease of circulating hormone; cGnRH-II and sGnRH a slight increase. Daily peptide administration, for 15 to 30 days, caused severe inhibition of both testicular and epididymal activity and a significant drop of circulating testosterone. In Podarcis s. sicula, species specificity of pituitary sensitivity to GnRH variants appeared to be low. On the other hand, this gland seemed to show some desensitization after chronic peptide administration.
Ciarcia, G. & Paolucci, M. & Manzo, C. & Di Fiore, M.M. (1990) -
Cicek, K. & Candan, K. & Yildirim, E. & Kumlutas, Y. & Ilgaz, C. (2020) -
The study presents data on the food composition of the Unisexual Lizard, Darevskia unisexualis (Darevsky, 1966), from Hanak, Ardahan, Turkey. A total of 172 preys were determined in the digestive systems of 44 individuals examined in the study. Insecta, Aranea, Malacostraca, and Gastropoda constitute food composition of lizards. Major prey groups in the food composition are included in Hymenoptera (46.5%), Coleoptera (13.4%), Diptera (8.1%), Lepidoptera (7.6%), Orthoptera (7%) and Hemiptera (7%) in number, whereas Hymenoptera (70%), Lepidoptera (25%), Coleoptera (23%), and Diptera (20%) in frequency. Our result confirm that the Unisexual Lizard is an insectivorous and active predator and generally feed with poor flying or non-flying invertebrates.
Cihan, D. & Tok, C.V. (2014) -
In this research, 29 species of 11 amphibian and reptile families were detected in the endorheic basin of Akşehir and Eber. Of these species, 5 are anurans, 1 is a tortoise, 1 is a turtle, 9 are lizards, and 13 are snakes. In addition, the chorotype classification of the species recorded in the study area and their distributions depending on plants are also provided. It was established that specimens of subspecies Ophisops elegans macrodactylus and O. e. centralanatolia were sympatrically found in the vicinity of Ortaköy and Tuzlukçu. Moreover, in addition to the species determined in previous studies, Platyceps najadum and Hemorrhois nummifer were first detected in this region.
Ciobanu, D. & Grechko, V.V. & Darevsky, I.S. & Kramerov, D.A. (2004) -
A new tandemly repeated (satellite) DNA family namely Agi160, from Lacerta agilis and Lacerta strigata (Lacerta sensu stricto (s. str.), Linnaeus 1758) have been cloned and sequenced. Agi160 is found in the above two species, as well as two other representatives of the same genus, L. viridis and L. media. DNA hybridization did not reveal it in Darevskia, Podarcis, Zootoca, Eremias, Ophisops, and Gallotia - the other genera of the family Lacertidae. The results suggest that Agi160 is a Lacerta s. str. specific family of tandem DNA repeats. However, a comparison between sequences of Agi160 and CLsat repeat units revealed 60 bp regions 62-74% identical. The latter is a satellite DNA family typical for Darevskia (syn. L. saxicola complex) (Grechko et al., Molecular-genetic classification and phylogenetic relatedness of some species of Lacertidae lizards by taxonoprint data. Mol Biol 32:172-183, 1988.). Both Agi160 and CLsat tandem repeats share several common features (e.g., the same AT content and distribution of multiple short A-T runs, internal structure of repeated units, the presence of conservative regions). These data are indicative of their common origin and a possibly strong selective pressure upon conserving both satellites. A comparative analysis of structure, organization, and abundance of these two families of satDNA reveals evolutionary pathways that led to their formation and divergence. The data are consistent with the hypotheses of the concerted evolution of satellite DNA families. The possibility of use of Agi160 as a phylogenetic tool, defining relationships within Lacerta s. str., as well as within the whole family of Lacertidae is discussed.
Ciobanu, D.G. & Grechko, V.V. & Darevsky, I.S. (2003) -
The structure and evolution of a satellite DNA family was examined in lizards from the genus Darevskia(family Lacertidae). Comparison of tandem units of repeated DNA (satDNA), CLsat, in all species from the genus Darevskiahas shown that their variability is largely explained by single-nucleotide substitutions, which form about 50 diagnostic positions underlying classification of the family into three subfamilies. Maximum differences between the subfamilies reached 25%. At this level of tandem unit divergence in the subfamilies, no cross-hybridization between them was observed (at 65°C). The individual variability within one subfamily within the species was on average 5% while the variability between species consensuses within a subfamily was 10%. The presence of highly conserved regions in all monomers and some features of their organization show that satellites of all Darevskia species belong to one satDNA family. The organization of unit sequences of satellites CLsat and Agi160 also detected by us in another lizard genus, Lacerta s. str. was compared. Similarity that was found between these satellites suggests their relatedness and common origin. A possible pathway of evolution of these two satDNA families is proposed. The distribution and content of CLsat repeat subfamilies in all species of the genus was examined by Southern hybridization. Seven species had mainly CLsatI (83 to 96%); three species, approximately equal amounts of CLsatI and CLsatIII (the admixture of CLsatII was 2–5%); and five species, a combination of all three subfamilies in highly varying proportions. Based on these results as well as on zoogeographic views on the taxonomy and phylogeny of the Darevskia species, hypotheses on the evolution of molecular-genetic relationships within this genus are advanced.
Чобану Д.Г., Гречко В.В., Даревский И.С. (2003) -
Исследовали структуру и эволюцию семейства сателлитной ДНК ящериц рода Darevskia сем. Lac-ertidae. При сравнительном анализе последовательностей мономеров тандемных повторов ДНК (сатДНК) - CLsat - всех видов ящериц р. Darevskia показано, что вариабельность повторов обусловлена главным образом однонуклеотидными заменами, которые образуют около 50 диагностических позиций, на основании которых выделены три подсемейства повторов. Максимальные значения различий между подсемействами достигают 25%. При такой степени дивергенции мономеров трех подсемейств перекрестной гибридизации (при 65°С) между ними не наблюдается. Индивидуальная вариабельность мономеров одного подсемейства внутри вида в среднем составляет 5%, а вариабельность между видовыми консенсусами внутри подсемейства - 10%. Наличие высококонсервативных областей во всех мономерах и ряд особенностей их организации позволяют рассматривать сателлиты всех видов р. Darevskia как единое семейство сатДНК. Приведено сравнение организации последовательности мономеров сателлита CLsat и обнаруженного нами Agi160 из другого рода ящериц -Lacerta s. str. Выявлено сходство, свидетельствующее о родстве этих сателлитов и об их общем происхождении, предложен вероятный путь эволюции этих двух семейств сатДНК. Методом Саузерн-гибридизации изучено распространение и содержание подсемейств повторов CLsat во всех видах рода. Семь видов содержат в основном CLsatl (от 83 до 96%), три вида - примерно равные количества CLsatl и CLsatIII (примесь CLsatII составляет 2-5%), а пять видов - сумму всех трех подсемейств в сильно отличающихся соотношениях. На основе этих данных, в совокупности с зоогеографически-ми представлениями о родстве видов р. Darevskia, предложены гипотезы эволюции молекулярно-генетического родства видов этого рода.
Ciobanu, D.G. & Grechko, V.V. & Kramerov, D.A. & Darevsky, I.S. (2003) -
Ciobanu, D.G. & Roudykh, I.A. & Ryabinina, N.L. & Grechko, V.V. & Kramerov, D.A. & Darevsky, I.S. (2002) -
The genetic relatedness of several bisexual and of four unisexual Lacerta saxicola complexlizards was studied, using monomer sequences of the complex-specific CLsat tandem repeats and anonymous RAPD markers. Genomes of parthenospecies were shown to include different satellite monomers. The structure of each such monomer is specific for a certain pair of bisexual species. This fact might be interpreted in favor of co-dominant inheritance of these markers in bisexual species hybridogenesis. This idea is supported by the results obtained with RAPD markers; i.e., unisexual species genomes include only the loci characteristic of certain bisexual species. At the same time, in neither case parthenospecies possess specific, autoapomorphic loci that were not present in this or that bisexual species.
Cirer Costa, A.M. (1981) -
Cirer Costa, A.M. (2020) -
We review the enormous photographic material obtained from the 80`s of the 20th century to the present and the descriptions of body colouration of the many consulted collections of Podarcis pityusensisfrom the island of Formentera. The wide variety of colourations is evident, with a large intra-population and inter-population polymorphism existing on the island of Formentera. A north-south gradual change is observed, especially at the Punta des Trucadors, parallel to the changes in the substrate and the vegetation. It is also noted that not all the colors of Podarcis pityusensis formenteraeare present in all parts of the island, but that each region has its own colourations, and always with a high intra-population richness.Comparing the material obtained at different periods, it can be seen that the geographic differences in lizard body colouration persist over time.The offspring always have the same colouration throughout the island.
Cirer Costa, A.M. & Candela Martínez, S. (2023) -
The name Ibiza means `Island of Bes`, god who drives away snakes. With a marked Phoenician cultural influence, have snakes been observed never in the Pitiusas at historical time. This absence and the great density and diversity of lizards (Podarcis pityusensis) is an ecological characteristic, but assumed as a sign of personal and social identity. The arrival of snakes from 2003 alarmed the entire Ibiza society. Aware of the scarcity of governmental human resources available in front of the enormous problem of invasive snakes, the Institut d`Estudis Eivissencs in 2020 structured a volunteer group that maintains snake traps scattered throughout the island of Ibiza. Taking advantage of the dispersed distribution of housing throughout the island territory. To activate a trap requires to take care of a live mouse that has to be visited constantly, assumable task for a volunteer who lives in the area. The mapped data obtained with 334 traps during the 2021 and 2022 campaigns are presented. The sense of East- West colonization is appreciated with a strip in the center of the island with increasing catches. To the east, area where traps have been installed during longer time, catches tend to decrease. While to the west of this strip you can see the area, without captures, not yet colonized by invasive snakes.
Cirer, A.M. (1980) -
Two new subspecies: Podarcis pityusensis canaretensis and Podarcis pityusensis martinezi, are described, according with an analysis of 15 variables. They complete the polytipic species Podarcis (= Lacerta) pityusensis. Their geografic distribution is limited to two smalls islets: Illot des Canaret and Illot de Sa Sal Rosa, near the Ibiza island, in the Balearic Islands.
Cirer, A.M. (1981) -
Cirer, A.M. (1982) -
Cirer, A.M. (1987) -
EL ESTUDIO ABORDADO EN LA TESIS VERSA SOBRE LA CARACTERIZACION TAXONOMICA DE LA LAGARTIJA DE LAS PITIUSAS PODARCIS PITVUSENSIS. SE ANALIZAN LAS DISTINTAS POBLACIONES DESDE TRES ASPECTOS DISTINTOS: EL ANALISISBIOMETRICO EL ANALISIS ELECTROFORETICO DE DISTINTAS PROTEINAS Y EL ANALISIS COLORIMETRICO. LOS ANALISIS ESTADISTICOS APLICADOS SOBRE LAS VARIANTES BIOMETRICAS DEMUESTRAN LA EXISTENCIA DE DIVERSOS GRUPOS DE POBLACIONES MUY SEMEJANTES ENTRE SI. LA VARIABILIDAD DE LA ESPECIE NO SOLO ES FENOTIPICA SINO QUE TAMBIEN ES GENETICA DETECTANDOSE UNA DIVERSIDAD EN ESTOS CARACTERES SUPERIOR A LA ESPERADA EN REPTILES. SE OBSERVA UNA ALTA HETEROSIS QUE ES CARACTERISTICA DE LA ESPECIE LO QUE PARECE DEMOSTRAR QUE ESTA SE ENCUENTRA EN LAS PRIMERAS FASES DE COLONIZACIONY ADAPTACION A LOS DIFERENTES HABITATS OFRECEN LAS ISLAS QUE OCUPA. SE CONSTATA LA ACCION DEL EFECTO FUNDADOR Y LA DERIVA GENETICA EN LOS TRES ASPECTOS CONSIDERADOS EN LA TESIS ASI COMO UNA TENDENCIA EVOLUTIVA HACIA EL AUMENTO DE TAMAÑO SIEMPRE QUE NO EXISTA UNA PRESION SELECTIVA CONTRARIA. SUCEDE LO MISMO CON EL MELANISMO. CONSIDERANDO EL ESTADO EVOLUTIVO ACTUAL DE LA ESPECIE REFLEJADO EN LA PLASTICIDAD DE LAS DISTINTAS POBLACIONES DE ESTALAARTIJA Y EN LA ADAPTACION QUE MANIFIESTAN EN CADA NICHO CONCRETO ASI COMO EL CONCEPTO RESTRICTIVO ACTUAL DE SUBESPECIE LA AUTORA CONSIDERA QUE SOLO PUEDEN CONSIDERARSE SEIS TAXONES SUBESPECIFICOS O SUBESPECIES DE LA LAGARTIJA DE LAS PITIUSAS.
In this paper are presented the results obtained with 45 populations of Podarcis pityusensis. Several multivariant technics are performed: discriminant analysis, cluster analysis and canonic analysis of populations. These populations present gradual change in all their biometric characteristics, and also a great interpopulation variability, that invalidate th statistical methods to discriminate between all of them. In different analysis very related population groups are found, that suggests they are constitute the same subspecies, in the actual taxonomic sense. These groups always inhabits islands with the same geological age, it is therefore necessary to complete the study with othr biological reflections, all of which are getting ready.
Cirer, A.M. (1989) -
The dorsal, side and belly colours of 118 specimens of Podarcis pityusensis have been analysed with physical methods. Twenty samples from 16 islands have been chosen, 3 of then from Eivissa Island (Ibiza), 2 from Formentera Island and 2 from Espardell Island. The results reveal great colouration differences between the same island samples and sometimes similar colouration between different islands (different subspecies). specimens. This feature seems to show the colour criteria is not useful in taxonomic subjects for this species.
Cirer, A.M. (1997) -
Cirer, A.M. (2013) -
Cirer, A.M. (2018) -
Cirer, A.M. (2019) -
Cirer, A.M. (2020) -
Cirer, A.M. (2021) -
The melanic forms of Ibiza Wall Lizard (Podarcis pityusensis) inhabit the old- est islets: ses Bledes, sa Margalida and Murada. There are melanic popula- tions on two Pitiusa islets where we would expect to find non-melanic lizards. This article offers a possible answer to this unexpected melanism.
Cirer, A.M. (2022) -
Cirer, A.M. (2023) -
The snakes arrival to the island of Ibiza has been confirmed twenty years ago, but there is still no solid and coherent strategy to face the greatest ecological risk that threatens native species and our ecosystems. A review of these twenty years is presented, how the science, legislation and environmental ma- nagement have focused the problem. The strategies that have been implemen- ted, and what is the future forecast are presented. We propose to start the installation of small Lizards Reserves in public or private spaces that conserve the factors that configure the Podarcis pityusensis pityusensis habitat.
Cirer, A.M. (2024) -
Hemorrhois hippocrepis arrives at the beginning of the twenty-first century to the Pityusic Islands, like an invasive species and it has placed the endemic lizard Podarcis pityusensis at serious risk of extinction in the two major islands. It makes urgent to have an estimated population density of lizards in the various islets of the Pityusas. It has been used personal field notes with the indications that allow us to estimate the population density in the different visits realized to the islets from 1979 to 2024.
Cirer, A.M. & Berg, M.P. van den (2025) -
In this study we compile data regarding lizard densities of the island populations of the Ibiza wall lizard, Podarcis pityusensis, which can serve as a baseline for future research and control of the invasive snakes, and in particular the horseshoe whip snake Hemorrhois hippocrepis, in the Pityusic Islands. Special attention has been given to the correct official spelling of 96 locations of which 89 are real rocks, islets and islands. For each island a short description, toponymy, faunal and floral aspects and some herpetological history is given, and a lizard density value was assigned. The results are very disturbing, with two confirmed- and three most likely extinct island populations of Podarcis pityusensis, and we call for coordinated action.
Cirer, A.M. & Guillaume, C.P. (1986) -
Cirer, A.M. & Martínez-Rica, J.P. (1986) -
Cirer, A.M. & Martínez-Rica, J.P. (1990) -
The variation in morphological and colouring features shown by the insular lacertid populations of Podarcis pityusensis is discussed from the point of view of their adaptive advantages to specific insular ecosystems. Insularity factors, i.e. area and island-age, have been found to be related to average body size, and the average luminosity of each population. Populations tend to show a size increase, a greater morphological homogeneity and darker dorsal colouring on smaller and older islands. Genetic drift seems to play a secondary role, whereas a positive selection in favour of melanism and giantism is observed. Both features are not linked as cause and effect, but seem to share a common cause: isolation and time enough to allow selection to take place. Predation, though slight in degree, does exist, and seems to be one of the selective pressure favouring melanism, together with the parallel trend towards an increase in body size and the need to an effective thermoregulation during the early hours of the day.
Cirer, A.M. & Martínez-Rica, J.P. (1997) -
Cirer, A.M. & Serapio, J. (2015) -
Eivissa i Formentera. Sargantanes i illes, escrit per la biòloga Antònia Maria Cirer i amb imatges de Jordi Serapio, fotògraf especialitzat en natura i medi ambient, és un compendi exhaustiu dels illots pitiusos amb les seves característiques més remarcables i, entre elles, l`inqüestionable protagonisme de les sargantanes que els habiten. Cada població de sargantanes està sotme
Cissé, M. & Karns, D.R. (1977) -
Cissé, M. & Karns, D.R. (1979) -
Ciudad Pizarro, M.J. & Lizana Avia, M. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1987) -
Civantos, E. (2000) -
Individual animals are assumed to gain possession of areas where they win fights or chases, while those that lose agonistic interactions leave areas where they were defeated. Thus, the more dominant animal secures the territory, often excluding subordinates from optimal habitat. This assumption forms the basis for concluding that the degree of aggressiveness or relative dominance of an individual may be important in determining the size or quality of a territory that it can secure. I examined in the field the relationships between home-range size, quality of home range, and degree of aggressiveness and their effects on survivorship in juvenile male lizards (Psammodromus algirus). The degree of aggressiveness was determined using tethered intruders presented to resident individuals in the field. The more aggressive individuals had larger home ranges than the less aggressive ones. Furthermore, home-range size and vegetative cover in the home range also influenced the probability of survival: survivors had larger home ranges, with a greater amount of vegetative cover, than nonsurvivors.
Civantos, E. (2002) -
In some species, more aggressive individuals are more successful in resource competition. High testosterone level is associated with increased activity and aggressive behavior, and this may have a direct effect on metabolic rate and cause an increase in energy expenditure. Here, I examined the influence of exogenously administered testosterone on aggressiveness and body growth in juvenile Psammodromus algirus male lizards. Juvenile males were given testosterone-filled (experimental) or empty (control) implants. Testosterone produced an increase in aggressiveness and activity in the experimental males. However, despite being more aggressive, experimental males did not acquire larger home ranges than control males. Experimental males also experienced a significant reduction in growth rate over the 2-month period following implantation. Experimental males also were in poorer condition at the completion of the experiment, compared to control males. These results suggest that although an elevated testosterone level may have positive effects on aggressiveness and activity, it also may have negative effects manifested as reduced growth rate and body condition.
Civantos, E. & Forsman, A. (2000) -
Theories posit that the relative mortality rate of adults and juveniles is a major determinant of population dynamics and life history evolution. Moreover, differential survival of pre-reproductive individuals may be an important source of variation in lifetime reproductive success, and characters that influence survival of juveniles are likely to be under strong selection. We examined survival from hatching to maturity in a natural population of Psammodromus algirus lizards using data from a capture-mark-recapture study. We found that mortality from hatching to maturity was high: only 8% of males and 14% of females that hatched in 1996 survived the entire study period until maturity in spring 1998. The probability of survival was 75% during both the first and second overwinter periods when lizards were inactive most of the time, and about 25% during their first spring to autumn activity season. Our analyses further revealed significant associations between survival and snout-vent length, body condition, sex and microhabitat use. However, the relationship between survival and morphological characters varied among time periods, presumably because the sources of mortality during the activity season were different from those during hibernation. The association between survival and body condition also varied within time periods, both between large and small individuals and between the two sexes. This suggests that the relative importance of different selective agents may change during the life of individuals and vary between males and females due to differences in body size and behaviour.
Civantos, E. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2010) -
Predation risk does not necessarily increase predation rates because prey may be able to behave differentially to cope with higher predation risk. However, antipredatory behaviors may be costly, leading to negative, although non-lethal, effects of predators on prey. We examined in outdoor enclosures whether an experimental increase in predation pressure, which did not increase direct mortality, but forced individuals to increase antipredatory behaviors, may have significant non-lethal effects on body growth and health state of juvenile lizards, Psammodromus algirus. Simulated persistent predator attacks resulted in slower rates of body size growth and body mass gain of juvenile lizards, which may greatly affect their future survival. However, juvenile lizards were able to maintain their initial body condition and immune response regardless of predation risk level. Moreover, our data suggested that experience of lizards with their home range “environment” might allow them to compensate the negative effects of temporal high predation risk on body condition when predation risk subsequently decreased. Finally, juvenile lizards with greater immune responses showed smaller increments in body size, but larger increments in body mass and body condition, at the end of the control treatment. In contrast, there was no relationship between immunity and growth after the experimental treatment.
Civantos, E. & Salvador, A. & Veiga, J.P. (1999) -
To examine factors related to overwinter survival of Psammodromus algirus hatchlings, we performed a capture-mark-recapture study of a cohort of hatchlings. In this work, we examine the effects of body size, vegetation structure of the home range, tail condition, sex, and estimated hatching date on hatchling survivorship to the next spring. Results of a logistic regression analysis showed that survival was associated with larger body size (SVL), higher cover, and earlier hatching date. Tail condition and sex were not associated with overwinter survivorship.
Cizek, P. & Hamouzova, P. & Kvapil, P. & Kyllar, M. (2019) -
Despite the fact that numerous reptile species are widely studied by the researchers, information describing the detailed structure of particular organs in many reptiles is missing. The tongue of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) was examined under the light and scanning electron microscope. It is divided into bifurcated apex, corpus and bifurcated radix. The tip of the lingual apex is devoid of lingual papillae. The remaining dorsal surface of the tongue bears either fused papillae in the form of caudally directed ridges or individual papillae represented by mushroom like or semilunar prominences (lingual apex) or fish scale-like papillae (lingual corpus) and horizontally laid ridges extending in the form of lobulated prominences (lingual corpus, lingual radix). Regardless of the shape, lingual papillae contain numerous muscle fibers and they are all considered to be mechanical. The lingual epithelium changes from the simple squamous into stratified squamous in the caudal direction. No salivary glands or sensory structures were recognised. This description is to be used mainly for comparative studies. It could also help to understand how different lizards capture the pray.
Clark, R. (1989) -
Clark, R. (1991) -
A list of the herpetofauna of Samothraki is given in Table 2. In this list I have tried to include all amphibia and teptilia to which I can find certain references. Only two amphibians are known, R. ridibunda and B. viridis. I looked persistently for Brown Frogs but to no avail although conditions were suitable. The streams that run across to the north coast rise at fairly low altitude but the water is cool enough to support the life style of, say, R. graeca. Higher mountain streams might well contain Brown Frogs but these were not visited. The co-existence of two wall lizards that do not normally come together on islands is noteworthy: P. erhardii and P. muralis. Both seem uncommon or even rare and probably represent populations in decline. The snake-eyed Lizard, Ophisops elegans, is absent from Samothraki. This fact, and the occurrence of P. erhardii, demonstrates that this island did not receive faunal elements from Asia Minor. Regarding the snakes all species are what one might anticipate for this coastal island. An exception is E. longissima (Buttle 1989) which otherwise is not known from islands in the Aegean region. The presence of E. quatuorlineata sauromates (Wettstein 1953 p.800) is based on a sight identification but can be taken to be sufficient documentation to allow its inclusion, as with Buttle`s siting of E. longissima. Viperine snakes have not been found.
Clark, R. (1992) -
Clark, R. (1994) -
Clark, R. (1999) -
The herpetofauna of Thassos consists of 5 amphibians (2 toads, 3 frogs) and 14 reptiles (1 tortoise, 1 terrapin, 6 lizards, 6 snakes), a total of 19 species. The possibility that some of the species mentioned in List B may also occur brings the total to a porentlal 24. In addition a further two species need to be considered: Ablepharus kitaibelli, Snakeeyed Skink, and Emys orbicularis, European Pond Tortoise. As I have indicated (Clark, 1993) the apparent absence of the former species is curious considering its otherwise ubiquitous range. This little skink prefers cool, dampish situations and is most commonly found in the early spring and autumn. E.orbicularis has recently been recorded from Samothraki (Broggi, 1988) where it is sympatric with Mauremys caspica.
Clark, R. (2000) -
Clark, R.J. (1967) -
1. The herpetofauna of the Argo-Saronic islands includes two amphibians, one tortoise, six lizards, and six snakes. There are no indigenous species, 2. Owing to the lack of previous reports for the area most species are recorded for the first time. However, of particular interest are Chalcides o. ocellatus, Coluber najadum dahlii and Malpolon monspessulanus insignitus, as these are basically mainland forms and absent from the Cycladcs, although the first two are found on Kea, close to the Attic peninsula . The record for Eryx jaculus turcicus is valuable as knowledge of its range in Greece is very incomplete.
Clark, R.J. (1972) -
Clark, R.J. (1973) -
Clark, R.J. & Clark, E.D. (1970) -
Clark, R.J. & Clark, E.D. (1973) -
Clark, R.J. & Clark, E.D. & Anderson, S.C. (1966) -
Clark, R.J. & Clark, E.D. & Anderson, S.C. & Leviton, A.E. (1969) -
Clasen, A. (2001) -
Clausen, J. (2010) -
Clausen, J. (2011) -
Claussen, D.L. & Townsley, M.D. & Bausch, R.G. (1989) -
Claussen, D.L. & Townsley, M.D. & Bausch, R.G. (1990) -
Wall lizards were collected in the fall of 1988 from a population introduced in 1951 into Cincinnati, OH. They were acclimated to 5 °C for several weeks prior to testing at sub-zero temperatures. Eleven super-cooled lizards were removed from the cooling chamber prior to crystallization after between 15 min and 26 h at body temperatures ranging from -2.2 to -5.9 °C. With the exception of one individual supercooled to-5.0 °C, all lizards recovered fully. The crystallization temperatures of 15 lizards which froze ranged from -0.6 to -6.4 °C. Frozen lizards were stiff with a distinct blue color, which faded upon thawing at 3 °C. The ice contents of frozen lizards were determined calorimetrically and/or estimated from a theoretical model, the two methods being generally in close agreement. Remarkably, five individuals recovered fully from exposures as long as 2 h and with as much as 28% of their body water frozen. Although these animals are not as tolerant as certain other vertebrates they are clearly able to withstand freezing under some circumstances. Failure to survive freezing was attributed either to excessive ice accumulation during a prolonged freeze or to excessive supercooling prior to freezing, which induced a large initial surge of ice formation upon crystallization. Our results accord with those of Weigmann (1929). We accordingly recognize him as the first to demonstrate freeze-tolerance in vertebrates, and we further recognize P. muralis as the first vertebrate known to survive freezing.
Cleeves, V. (1995) -
Clemens, D.J. & Allain, S.J.R. (2021) -
Clement, V. & Schluckenbier, R. & Platzen, J. & Rödder, D. (2019) -
Understanding the climatic factors influencing a species behavior is important for a multitude of reasons including conservation planning. Climate ecology of Lacerta agilis has been studied thoroughly at the edges of its distribution range and at high elevations but hardly in the central parts. As preferences between populations living in extreme conditions can vary considerably from those of populations in more moderate conditions, in order to properly conserve central populations of Lacerta agilis, we cannot rely on studies conducted in extreme conditions. We therefore use a visual encounter study on a sand lizard population in a heathland near Cologne over two years and combine it with the corresponding data of a nearby weather station. Our aim is to determine climatic preferences within the population and identify which factors influence activity in sand lizards using among other methods CART models and analysis of variance. Furthermore, we aim to deliver a method which can easily be included in any visual encounter based fieldwork.
Clement, V.F. & Edanackaparampil, J. & Schmitz, L.M. & Schluckebier, R. & Rödder, D. (2023) -
Weather conditions are important factors determining the activity, and consequently detection probability of animals. Especially in ectotherms from temperate habitats, activity can vary strongly depending on weather. The sand lizard Lacerta agilis is a wide-ranging lizard that is often subject to environmental impact assessments due to its proximity to humans and prevalence as a candidate for compensatory measures according to the Flora and Fauna Habitat Directive of the European Union. Lacerta agilis has been studied extensively at certain edges of its distribution, but studies focusing on the core range have been rare. We use Bayesian models in order to identify the best explaining weather variables out of a large variety of available variables for a population of Lacerta agilis in western Germany. We furthermore depict their interactions with an easy-to-understand regression tree model. Sand lizards have shown to be more active during dry conditions with low windspeeds. They further are best found after sunny weather with temperatures around 20°C. Rainfall in the previous 24 hours also increases the detection probability. An unpruned regression tree reaffirms the results while giving concrete variable values and exploring how the values influence each other. Overall, the method delivers a decision tree based on easy-to-obtain weather variables that allows for post-survey analysis and for determination of the best survey conditions.
Clement, V.F. & Schluckebier, R. & Rödder, D. (2022) -
Understanding animal space use and habitat needs is a vital requirement for effective conservation and manage ment measures. Considering the multiple instances in which landscapes are anthropogenically altered, it becomes increas ingly important to understand what the spatial requirements of an animal are. However, smaller animals, like lizards, require finer-scale assessments, which cannot always be easily made. Therefore, we calculated home ranges of Lacerta agilis using data collected by radio tracking. We then studied microhabitat preference using high-resolution maps generated from photographs taken by unmanned aerial vehicles. Overall, lizards in the selected area seem to favour home ranges that include blackberry brush while avoiding high vegetation and sand. They use other structures according to individual preferences or unstudied factors. Our study portrays an efficient method with high spatial resolution to assess small-vertebrate habitat preferences, which can in turn be used in planning population-specific habitat management or compensatory measures.
Clemente, J.J.P. (2005) -
Clerx, P.M.J. & Broers, J.L.V. (1983) -
During summer 1981 an ecological study was made on a highland population of Lacerta vivipara in Serfaus (Tirol, Austria) at an altitude of 2000 m. The main aim of this investigation was the study of the reproduction cycle during the relatively short season of activity. When possible comparisons were made with corresponding data of lowland populations in the Netherlands.
Clivillé, S. & Montori, A. & Llorente, G.A. & Carretero, M.A. & Santos, X. (2000) -
Clobert, J. (2012) -
Clobert, J. (2017) -
Clobert, J. & Massot, M. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2012) -
Clobert, J. & Massot, M. & Lecomte, J. & Sorci, G. & Fraipont, M. de & Barbault, R. (1994) -
Clobert, J. & Massot, M. & Léna, J.-P. & Fraipont, M. de (1997) -
Clobert, J. & Massot, M. & Pilorge, T. & Lecomte, J. (1990) -
Clobert, J. & Oppliger, A. & Sorci, G. & Ernande, B. & Swallow, J.G. & Garland, T.J. (2000) -
1. Considerable within-population variability of locomotor performance traits has been shown to exist in several species of squamate reptiles. In general, high values for speed and endurance are thought to have positive effects on the ability to capture prey, escape from predators, compete with conspecifics and acquire mates. On the other hand, variation in performance might trade-off with other components of fitness such that the net effect on Darwinian fitness is unpredictable. 2. Gravid females of the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) were captured and several phenotypic traits of their offspring measured immediately following birth. These were endurance, body length and body mass. Offspring were marked for individual identi- fication, released into the field, and correlations between the phenotypic traits and their subsequent growth, activity and survival rate over the next months were then tested for. Parasitism by hematozoa was monitored and predation risk by tail losses estimated. 3. It was found that individuals with a low endurance at birth tended to have reduced activity and growth rate, and higher parasite load; on the positive side, however, they experienced lower predation risk as assessed by tail losses. Conversely, individuals with a high endurance at birth had high activity and growth rates, low parasite load, but higher incidence of broken tails. Finally, endurance at birth was not correlated with survivor- ship up to the age of sexual maturity. Thus, individuals with varying locomotor endur- ance seem to exhibit behaviours that may result in the same level of Darwinian fitness. 4. The possibility that our results reveal a trade-off between the risk of becoming infected with parasites when lizards are less active (which is related to having lower endurance) vs the risk of being predated when the lizards are more active (higher endurance) is discussed.
Cloudsley-Thompson, J.L. (1992) -
Clover, R.C. (1975) -
Phenetic relationships in insular populations of Lacerta sicula and L. melisellensis correspond to geologic ages of the islands in two regions of the Adriatic Sea. Populations of L. melisellensis on older islands are more similar to populations of L. sicula than are L. melisellensis from younger islands, and examination of characters reflecting trophic structures of these lizards suggests that convergent evolution has progressed further in the populations on older islands. A rough correspondence between phenetic similarities of populations and island sizes was investigated by means of multiple regression analyses in which geographic features of islands were used as independent variables and means of selected morphologic characters were dependent variables. Island area, length and distance to the mainland were the most important variables `explaining` interpopulation variations in measures of trophic structures, dorsal scale counts, and numbers of femoral pores in L. melisellensis. Lizards from small isolated islands generally have larger bodies, relatively wider snouts and heads, relatively longer heads, more dorsal scales, and more femoral pores than L. melisellensis from larger islands near the mainland. Larger lizards with relatively larger head dimensions on small islands are believed to be the results of adaptations to situations of reduced interspecific interactions and restricted distributions of food resources. Dorsal scale count variations may be related to climatic heterogeneity, but the evidence is inconclusive. Likewise, variations in the number of femoral pores may be related to variations in a balance between conflicting selective pressures for avoiding predation and facilitating intraspecific communication, but basic information on the functional significance of these characters is lacking. Measures of relative variation for ten meristic characters in L. melisellensis showed no significant pattern of variation, but levels of intrapopulation variation in ratios of head measurements to snoutvent lengths were generally lower in populations on small islands and higher in large island populations. Island area, length, the distance to potential sources of colonists and elevation were shown to be important variables in `explaining` geographic variations in levels of intrapopulation variability of trophic characters. Low levels of relative variation for trophic characters in populations from small isolated islands are generally associated with relatively high levels of sexual dimorphism in head width, suggesting that strong directional selection resulting from intraspecific competition for food has depleted genetic variation affecting these characters. Evidence from gene frequency data and body size distributions on small islands shows that genetic drift and founder effects complicate selectionist interpretations of these trends. The similarity of the trends identified in insular populations of Lacerta to trends identified in other insular populations of lizards suggests a generalized response of lizards to isolation.
Clover, R.C. (1979) -
Thirty-one island populations of Podarcis sicula and P. melisellensis from Yugoslavia were examined to determine phenetic similarities based on means of 15 characters. Both cluster analysis and multidimensional scaling (MDS) revealed the following patterns of variation: 1) the two species formed distinct groups; 2) within each species, OTUs from northern and southern islands grouped separately; 3) within P. melisellensis, OTUs from small islands tended to resemble other small island OTUs from geographically close islands. These patterns appear to contradict similarities implied by previous subspecific designations based largely on color and pattern differences. Genetic drift, gene flow, and selection are evaluated as explanations for observed phenetic patterns. Drift appears to be highly unlikely as a major force determining regional, large island, and small island similarities among OTUs. Channel depths and estimates of the rate of net increase in sea level suggest that the northern islands are younger than the southern islands, supporting the idea that gene flow has been restricted among the southern islands and between the two regions for a longer time than among the northern islands. Combined with differences in selection regimes, the recency of gene flow appears to have been important in determining north-south phenetic similarities. Populations on small islands are exposed to qualitatively different selection regimes than those on large islands. The closer similarity of northern, small island OTUs to large island OTUs suggests that the northern OTUs have not responded to small island selection regimes to the same extent that southern island OTUs have.
Clusella-Trullas, S. & Terblanche, J.S. & Blackburn, T.M. & Chown, S.L. (2008) -
1. The thermal melanism hypothesis (TMH) predicts that dark (low skin reflectance) individuals are at an advantage in cool climates as they heat faster and reach higher equilibrium temperatures than lighter (higher reflectance) individuals. However, tests of the TMH have yielded mixed support, especially in ectothermic vertebrates. 2. Most studies to date have been undertaken at small spatial scales or using a few, closely related populations or species. Here, we therefore examine the TMH at large scales in heliothermic lizard species, testing two of its major predictions and a corollary thereof, using standard and phylogenetically corrected analyses. 3. First, we test the prediction that skin reflectance and climate variables such as mean annual temperature (MAT) and global solar radiation are positively related across species. Second, we determine whether a positive relationship exists between skin reflectance and body mass. Third, since physiology, behaviour and morphology should be co-adapted, we test the prediction that skin reflectance and traits of thermal biology are positively related. 4. We find strong support for a positive relationship between skin reflectance and mean annual radiation even after adjusting for phylogeny. Moreover, radiation was a better predictor of skin reflectance than MAT. We also find support for a positive relationship of skin reflectance with body size, although this was non-significant after accounting for phylogeny. 5. Skin reflectance was not related to measures of thermal biology, although confounding effects such as methodological differences could not be ruled out. 6. In summary, this study provides novel support for the TMH operating interspecifically at large geographic scales, suggesting adaptive variation of skin reflectance among lizards.
Cobror, O. (1985) -
Cobror, O. & Olmo, E. & Odierna, G. & Angelini, F. & Ciarcia, G. (1986) -
The seasonal variations of chiasma frequency and distribution have been studied in the lizard: Podareis sicula. In this species, as in Phyllodactylus (King & Hayman, Chromosoma 69: 131–154, 1978), chiasma frequencies vary following a definite annual cycle, and clearly different trends are shown by interstitial and terminal chiasmata. A comparison between these seasonal chiasma frequency variations and those of environmental temperature shows the existence of a clear correlation between these two parameters. However, this correlation is different in the two types of chiasmata, and may be different within the same type of chiasma depending on the period of the year. A more significant correlation is observed between chiasma cycles and annual variations of the haematic levels of sexual steroid hormones. In particular we observe a highly significant correlation between interstitial chiasma frequencies and testosterone concentration. A less precise correlation between terminal chiasma frequencies and estradiol concentration is also observed. In Podarcis, as in Phyllodactylus, the sperm that will be used for fertilization derive from the spermatocytes showing the highest rate of interstitial chiasmata. This supports the hypothesis that the cyclic variations in interstitial chiasma frequencies represent a mechanism to ensure an adequate level of variability in a given population. The above mentioned correlation between chiasma frequencies and steroia hormone concentrations suggests that the seasonal chiasma cycles are controlled by the same environmental and hormonal factors regulating the spermatogenetic cycle.
Cocca, W. & Žagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Krofel, M. & Luznik, M. & Podnar, M. & Tvrtkovic, N. & Crottini, A. (2016) -
The Horvath’s rock lizard, Iberolacerta horvathi, is occurring from 200 to 2000 m a.s.l. on the eastern Alps (NE Italy, S Austria, NW Slovenia) and the northern Dinaric Mountains (central and S Slovenia and NW Croatia). This species is the only representative of Iberolacerta outside Iberian Peninsula and currently shows a discontinuous occupational range. We collected tissue samples and extracted total genomic DNA of 110 samples from 23 localities across its entire distributional range. We grouped localities into three main geographical areas: northwestern (NW), central and southeastern (SE). For all samples we amplified a fragment of the mtDNA cytochrome b (Cytb) gene whereas a fragment of the nuclear melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) gene was amplified for a subset of 53 samples. Despite the relatively narrow geographical scale, the Cytb haplotype network indicated a high number of unique haplotypes present in each area (6 in the NW and 14 in the central and SE). In NW and in central area we detected two shared haplotypes: a) the widely distributed H5, and b) the H21, shared by only two populations. On the contrary, SE populations did not share any Cytb haplotype with other areas. The nuclear haplotype network analysis gave similar results, where multiple private alleles occurred in each area (4 in NW and central, and 3 in SE) and a widespread haplotype shared across the three areas. Results suggest that current distributional fragmentation is partially mirrored by the phylogeographic history of the species, with private alleles occurring in each of the main geographic areas, indicating limited gene flow among populations at least in the recent past. Knowledge of genetic structure of this endemic species provides essential information to orient activities to ensure its future conservation.
Cocca, W. & Zagar, A. & Sillero, N. & Jowers, M.J. & Krofel, M. & Luznik, M. & Podnar, M. & Tvrtkovic, N. & Carreter, M.A. & Crottini (2021) -
The Horvath’s rock lizard Iberolacerta horvathi (Méhely, 1904) is an understudied lacertid species, which is geographically isolated from its congeners and currently classified as Near Threatened under IUCN red listing criteria. Due to its limited distribution and narrow environmental preferences, we expect that the species had been affected by past climatic oscillations. By combining all available data on species occurrences and our own records, we produced an updated distribution map. We used ecological niche models to identify the current environmental factors underlying the species range and developed a habitat suitability map. We sequenced one mitochondrial and one nuclear marker to characterize the distribution of the genetic variability and infer the historical demography of the species. The habitat suitability map identified areas where targeted field searches should be prioritized, as well as unsuitable habitats coinciding with likely barriers to gene flow. We found considerable genetic variability suggesting that the species probably survived the Pleistocene glaciations in at least two main refugia, one in the South and the other in the central/northern portion of its distribution. While southern populations show a moderate demographic decrease starting at the onset of the Eemian interglacial, the northern populations underwent an expansion during Late Pleistocene. We provide a revised species distribution and a first characterization of its genetic variability across its distribution to guide conservation priorities for this endemic and spatially restricted species.
Cochard, P.-O. (1999) -
Cochard, P.-O. (2008) -
Cochard, P.-O. & Vacher, J.-P. (2012) -
Cock, J.J. (1957) -
Cocteau, T. (1835) -
Codina i Ferrer, A. (1922) -
Codina, A. (1918) -
Cogălniceanu, D. & Castilla, A.M. & Valdeón, A. & Gosá, A. & Al-Jaidah, N. & Alkuwary, A. & Saifelnasr, E.O.H. & Mas-Peinado, P. & Richer, R. & Al-Hemaidi, A.A.M. (2014) -
We have updated the list of the lizard species present in Qatar and produced the first distribution maps based on two field surveys in 2012 and 2013. We used the QND95/Qatar National Grid with a grid of 10 × 10 km squares for mapping. Our results show the occurrence of 21 lizard species in Qatar, from the 15 species indicated in the last biodiversity report conducted in 2004. The most abundant family found in Qatar is Gekkonidae with nine species (Bunopus tuberculatus, Cyrtopodion scabrum, Hemidactylus robustus, H. flaviviridis, H. persicus, Stenodactylus arabicus, S. slevini, S. doriae, Pseudoceramodactylus khobarensis), followed by Lacertidae with four species (Acanthodactylus schmidti, A. opheodurus, Mesalina brevirostris, M. adramitana), Agamidae with three species (Trapelus flavimaculatus, Uromastyx aegyptia, Phrynocephalus arabicus), Scincidae with two species (Scincus mitranus, Trachylepis septemtaeniata), and Varanidae (Varanus griseus), Sphaerodactylidae (Pristurus rupestris) and Trogonophiidae (Diplometopon zarudnyi) with one species each. The species richness fluctuated largely across Qatar between one and eleven species per grid square. We believe that the lizard fauna records in Qatar are still incomplete and that additional studies are required. However, our study here fills a gap concerning lizard biodiversity knowledge in the Gulf Region.
Cogălniceanu, D. & Rozylowicz, L. & Székely, P. & Samoilă, C. & Stănescu, F. & Tudor, M. & Székely, D. & Iosif, R. (2013) -
e reptile fauna of Romania comprises 23 species, out of which 12 species reach here the limit of their geographic range. We compiled and updated a national database of the reptile species occurrences from a variety of sources including our own eld surveys, personal communication from specialists, museum collections and the scienti c literature. e occurrence records were georeferenced and stored in a geoda- tabase for additional analysis of their spatial patterns. e spatial analysis revealed a biased sampling e ort concentrated in various protected areas, and de cient in the vast agricultural areas of the southern part of Romania. e patterns of species richness showed a higher number of species in the warmer and drier regions, and a relatively low number of species in the rest of the country. Our database provides a starting point for further analyses, and represents a reliable tool for drafting conservation plans.
Cogalniceanu, D. & Samoila, C. & Bajenaru, B. (2016) -
We studied the habitat availability and use of four lizard species occurring in the Natura 2000 ROSCI0123 Măcin Mountains protected area, located in the southeastern part of Romania, at the northern limit of the Balkan Peninsula, close to the Danube River. It covers an area of 18,546 ha and the highest peak rises 467 meters above sea level. Eleven Natura 2000 habitat types were identified and mapped within the protected area. We used over 1500 georeferenced occurrence records for the four species of lizards occurring there collected during an ongoing inventory that started in 2006. The species occurrences were each associated with a habitat type, and we assumed that the number of records within each habitat type was a proxy of habitat use. All four lizard species showed selectivity in habitat use to different degrees. Thus Podarcis tauricus avoided 55% of habitat types, Lacerta viridis and Ablepharus kitaibelli avoided 64% while Lacerta trilineata avoided 73% of habitat types. All four species preferred one single habitat: 40C0 “Ponto-Sarmatic deciduous thickets”. The habitat with the highest preference was 8230 “Siliceous rocks with pioneer vegetation...” for Podarcis tauricus, 8220 “Siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation” for Lacerta trilineata, 40C0 “Ponto-Sarmatic deciduous thickets” for L. viridis and 91AA “Eastern white oak woods” for Ablepharus kitaibelli. The habitat niche of the four species varied largely, thus reducing competition and predation by larger species.
Cogalniceanu, D. & Valdeón, A. & Gosá, A. & Al-Hemeidi, A.A.M. & Castilla, A.M. (2015) -
We report, for the first time, evidence of predation by a shrike (Lanius sp.) on the lizard Mesalina adramitana. This is the first record of predation by shrikes on lizards in Qatar. Whilst we did not directly observe the event, the presence of shrikes in the area and the method of impalement indicate shrikes as the predator. The lizard was found freshly impaled on a palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera), at 150 cm above ground. Bird species of the genus Lanius are well-known predators of lizards, and in arid environments reptiles are likely common prey for these birds. We provide a review of literature concerning predatory events by shrikes on reptiles and amphibians. We suggest inspection of shrubs for animals impaled by shrikes can improve biodiversity inventories, complementing other commonly used methods.
Cola-Tiro, L.M.A.A. de (1992) -
Coladonato, A.J. (2021) -
Coladonato, A.J. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Pasquariello, C. & Matellini, C. & Buratti, S. & Battaiola, M. & Sacchi, R. (2019) -
The persistence of colour polymorphism (CP) within a given population is generally associated with the coexistence of alternative reproductive strategies, each one involving specific trade-offs among behavioural, morphological, physiological, and other life history. Trade-offs involving immune system are of particular interest, since the ability of dealing with parasites and diseases has severe consequences on the fitness individuals may achieve, but also entails substantial costs for them. T-level fosters a strong motivation to defend territories against rivals (i.e. increasing movements, activity, and aggressive display) and increases mating. At the same time, high T-level can decrease immune functions favours parasite infections, stimulates risky behaviours, and thus diminishes survival, according Immunocompetence Handicap Hypothesi (ICHH), and there is no way to maximize stamina and aggressive behaviours at once. Common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) showing CP in three main color (yellow, white and red) and a morph specific pattern for both immunocompetence and seasonal variation of T-levels, where the former show low stamina with high plasma T-levels and the following high stamina with low intra-sexual competitive ability. We hypothesised the presence of 2 strategies: one from yellow-morph and another from white/red-morph. Thus we tested the aggressive response to conspecifics of yellow and white-morph using a mirror inserted into the ownsetting box, throughout the breeding season (128 experiments). All lizard was tested after a period of acclimatization. Results demonstrated the yellow males was more aggressive in the early bird season and with a decrease towards the end, whereas white males show an opposite pattern.
Coladonato, A.J. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Pasquariello, C. & Matellini, C. & Buratti, S. & Battaiola, M. & Sacchi, R. (2020) -
The persistence of colour polymorphism (CP) within a given population is generally associated with the coexistence of alternative reproductive strategies, each one involving specific trade-offs among behavioural, morphological, physiological, and other life histories. Common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), is a medium-sized diurnal lizard, showing CP in three main colours (yellow, white, and red) on throat and belly, and a morph-specific pattern for both immunocompetence and seasonal variation of T levels. Yellow males show low stamina with high plasma T levels at the beginning of the season, while white males show high stamina with a higher plasma T levels at the end of the season. We hypothesised the presence of two strategies: a risky one, characterised by high aggressiveness played by yellow-morph, and a conservative one by white morph with low aggressiveness. Thus, we tested the aggressive response to conspecifics of yellow and white morphs using a mirror inserted into their cage, mimicking an intrusion of a stranger in their territories, throughout the breeding season (from April to July, 117 trials). We considered three types of aggressive response, with different levels of aggressiveness: (i) bite against the image reflected in the mirror, (ii) seconds spent by the individuals into the half mirrored cage, and (iii) number of times the lizard entered the half mirrored cage. We also considered the number of tongue flicking as explorative behaviour variable. All lizards were tested after a period of acclimatisation to the captivity conditions. Results demonstrate that yellow males showed a higher aggressive response in the early season and a decrease aggressive response towards the end, whereas white males showed an opposite pattern.
Collin de Plancy, V. (1878) -
Collin, J.-P. & Meiniel, A. (1973) -
Experiments involving injection of 3H-5-hydroxytryptophan (3H-5-HTP) and 3H-5-hydroxytryptamine (3H-5-HT), followed by qualitative and quantitative radioautographic studies of the region of the pineal organ in Lacerta vivipara (J.) show: 1) Inhibition of 5-HT synthesis at the decarboxylation step with Ro 4-4602 or pretreatment with reserpine reduce significantly the labelling of the sensory epithelium of the pineal organ, and change the cell labelling pattern. In contrast with the animals treated only with 3H-5-HTP, those treated with either of these drugs and 3H-5-HTP show nonspecific radioautographic reactions. 2) The cellular distribution of monoamine oxidase activity (MAO), in the pineal organ was histochemically studied in normal and in nialamide or iproniazide treated animals. Lizards treated with an IMAO (inhibitor of MAO) and 3H-5-HTP show highly significant increases in radioactivity in the regions of the secretory granules (500–3400 Å in diameter) of the secretory rudimentary photoreceptor cells (SRP). 3) From the study of normal and MAO inhibited animals after an injection of 3H-5-HT, it is concluded that this indolamine may not be easily utilized in Lacerta as a precursor of melatonin and other possible active indoles. As a result of this study and other cytophysiological and biochemical investigations on the pineal of lacertilians, a partially hypothetical diagrammatic representation of the SRP cells is presented, showing the possible sites of the metabolism of indolamines in the pineal of Lacerta.
The sequence of incorporation and utilization of 3H-5-hydroxytryptophan (3H-5-HTP) has been examined in the pineal organ of adult lizard (Lacerta vivipara J.). Each animal was given 3H-5-HTP in the afternoon (about 15.00 h in July, T°=21–28°C). The lizards were sacrificed 2, 10, 15, 21, 30 minutes, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15 hours and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 days after administration. The cellular distribution of radioactivity was studied by qualitative and quantitative radioautography. The radioautographs show selective labelling, appearing in the SRP (secretory rudimentary photoreceptors) after 2–10 minutes. The labelling reaches a maximum over the SRP within 5 hours and subsequently disappears between 2 and 3 days. These radioautographic reactions are always most concentrated in the regions of proteinaceous secretory granules (500–3400 Å) originating from the Golgi complex. The other components of the SRP account only for a minor fraction of the labelling. Supporting and nervous (sensory and probably noradrenergic) cells of the pineal organ, as well as neighbouring brain structures do not retain significantly the radioactive compounds. These results, correlated with previous cytophysiological and biochemical studies, are consistant with an important role of SRP in the biosynthesis and storage of serotonin. Conclusions concerning the biosynthesis and metabolism of indolamines are presented in a subsequent paper where the incorporation of 3H-5-HTP is studied under experimental conditions. The turnover of indolamines seems to be slower in Lacerta than in mammals.
Collins, J.T. & Gubanyi, J.E. (2010) -
Colodro, I. & Atiénzar, F. & Sancho, V. & Santos, J.L. & Carretero, M.A. (2020) -
Colom, G. (1952) -
Colom, G. (1957) -
Colom, G. (1964) -
Colom, G. (1978) -
Colom, G. (1988) -
Colom. G. (1953) -
Colom. G. (1961) -
Colomar, V. et al. (2023) -
Since 2016, the Consortium for the Recovery of the Fauna of the Balearic Islands (COFIB) has carried out actions to control invasive snakes on the islands of Ibiza and Formentera entrusted to it by the Government of the Balearic Islands. These invasive snakes on the Pitiusas Islands include Hemorrhois hippocrepis and Zamenis scalaris. The two species are present in Ibiza and the second in Formentera. Since the beginning of the project, the capture effort has been increasing in relation to the number of traps used, starting the campaigns in Ibiza with 145 traps in 2016 and ending with 1,246 traps in 2022. Similarly, the trap effort has increased from 78 traps in 2016 to 394 in 2022. Thanks to this effort in relation to the number of traps and the number of days of trapping with a trap, a total of 7,118 captures of H. hippocrepis and 293 captures of Z. scalaris have been obtained in Ibiza, allocating a total of 466,130 days of trapping. While in the case of Formentera a total of 4,237 Z. scalaris have been captured with a total of 254,909 days of trapping. In both species and islands, higher capture rates have been observed in the months from May to June, and in the case of H. hemorrhois in Ibiza also in July. Parallel to the work to control invasive snakes, the COFIB maintains a close collaboration with the UIB Interdisciplinary Ecology Group, with which all the captures made since the beginning of the project are analyzed and from which valuable information is extracted that allows correcting and direct the efforts to control snakes in the Pitiusas Islands.
Colomba, M. & Liang, X. (2011) -
Lizards prefer certain habitat in terms of their morphological traits. Lizard abundance is an important indicator of their habitat suitability. Besides, foraging and basking are important behaviours for lizards, which largely depend on the habitat types. Psammodromus (Psammodromus algirus) and Spanish psammodromus (Psammodromus hispanicus) mainly inhabit in the Iberian Peninsula. The gypsum deposits distribute throughout this region and small proportion of the area are sandy river valley. This research is implemented on the gypsum deposits and sandy river valley with different vegetation distribution. We would like to figure out the effect of diverse habitats on lizard abundance. It may be influential in population ecology as well as biodiversity of lizards and their habitat.
Comas, M. (2020) -
may change their phenotype along the altitudinal gradient being adapted to the local conditions. Consequently, elevational gradients constitute a good model to examine geographic variation offering a natural experiment for carrying out research in evolutionary ecology. In this thesis, I carry out different approaches to study two lizard species along two elevational gradients in the Mediterranean region.On the one hand,I studythe Atlas day gecko Quedenfeldtia trachyblepharusin the High Atlas of Morocco. On the otherhand, I studythe large Psammodromus Psammodromus algirusin Sierra Nevadaof Spain. In the first chapter I study the Atlas day gecko trophic ecology.It is hypothesized that increased competition should reduce niche breadth. However, there are scarce field tests on this hypothesis. TheAtlas day geckofaces fewer competitors as altitude increases, and thereby, we predict that this species should increase niche breadth and relevant fitness parameters with altitude.We tested this prediction by analysingthe isotopic signature of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N). Our results reveal that specimens from higher altitudes showed higher values for both carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotopes, had better body condition and a greater isotopic breadth when compared to specimens from lower altitudes. Altitudinal variation in carbon values was not explained by variation in isotopic concentration in the baseline of the trophic chain. Therefore, resultssupport the prediction that relaxed interspecific competition favours increased trophic niche breadth. These results also suggest that global warming may represent an important threat for this species, as it may provoke the ascent in altitude of competitors, with negative consequences for the conservation of this endemism. In the second chapter, I study the variation in probability and intensity of infestationof blood-sucking mites parasitizingthe Atlas day gecko depending on host body condition, sex, and elevation.Parasitism is one of the main selective forces in nature,strongly affecting host fitness. Still, knowledge is incomplete concerning how variation in probability and intensity of infestationdepends on body condition, sex or geographic variables. I found that mite prevalence was58.75% and probability of infestation decreased with hostbody condition.However, parasitism intensity tended to increase with body condition. The parasite load ranged from 0 to 16 mites per individual, with a mean intensity of 3.0 ± 0.37 (SE) in infested geckos.Prevalence was higher in males (2/3 parasitized) than in females (1/2 parasitized), but intensitydid not significantly differ with sex. Neither prevalence nor intensity varied with elevation. In conclusion, geckos in better body condition harboured heavier parasite loads, but animals with the highest body condition were not infested. These findings suggest that animals with goodbody condition may tolerate heavier mite infestations, but only animals with the highest body condition may resist infestation.In the third chapterIanalysehow lifespan and other life-history traits of the lizard large Psammodromus Psammodromus algirusvary along a 2,200 m elevational gradient in Sierra Nevada.Lifespan is one of the main components of life history. Shorter lifespans can be expected in marginal habitats. However, in the case of ectotherms, lifespan typically increases with altitude, even though temperature –one of the main factors to determine ectotherms’ life history–declines with elevation. This pattern can be explained by the fact that a shorter activity time favours survival. Populations at intermediate altitudes, corresponding to the optimal habitat for this species, had the shortest lifespans, while populations inhabiting marginal habitats (at both low and at high altitudes) lived longest. Therefore, this lizard did not follow the typical pattern of ectotherms, as it also lived longer at the lower limit of its distribution, nor did it show a longer lifespanin areas with optimal habitats. These results might be explained by a complex combination of different gradients along the mountain, namely that activity time decreases with altitude whereas food availability increases. This could explain why lifespan wasmaximum at both high (limited activity time) and low (limited food availability) altitudes, resulting in similar lifespans in areas with contrasting environmental conditions. This studyalso indicated that reproductive investment and body condition increase with elevation, suggesting that alpine populations are locally adapted. In the fourth chapterIinvestigate the role of life-history traits such as age, sex, body size, body condition, and tail autotomy (i.e self-amputation) in shaping telomere length of six populations of the large Psammodromus in Sierra Nevada. The timing of organisms’ senescence is developmentally programmed but also shaped by the interaction between environmental inputs and life-history traits. In ectotherms, ageing dynamics are still poorly understood despite their particularities concerning thermoregulation, regeneration capacity, or growth trajectory. Our cross-sectional study shows that older lizards have longer telomeres, which might be linked to a higher expression of telomerase across their life or caused by the selective disappearance of individuals with shorter telomeres. Variation in telomere across elevation was explained by age structure of lizards, thus altitude had no effect on the telomere length of lizards. In contrastto our predictions, telomere length was unaffected by tail autotomy, and was sex-independent, but positively correlated with body condition. Regarding the lack of impacts of elevation on telomeres of lizards, our results suggest that life-history traits such as age and body condition can be major drivers of telomere dynamics for this lizard, whereas environmental conditions apparently had scarce or no effects on their telomeres. Our findings emphasize the relevance of understanding species’ life histories and habitat characteristics for fully disentangling the causes and consequences of lifespan trajectory in ectotherms.
Comas, M. & Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2019) -
Lifespan is one of the main components of life history. Shorter lifespans can be expected in marginal habitats. However, in the case of ectotherms, lifespan typically increases with altitude, even though temperature –one of the main factors to determine ectotherms’ life history– declines with elevation. This pattern can be explained by the fact that a shorter activity time favours survival. In the present study, we analysed how lifespan and other life-history traits of the lizard Psammodromus algirus vary along a 2,200 m elevational gradient in Sierra Nevada (SE Spain). Populations at intermediate altitudes (1,200–1,700 m), corresponding to the optimal habitat for this species, had the shortest lifespans, while populations inhabiting marginal habitats (at both low and at high altitudes) lived longest. Therefore, this lizard did not follow the typical pattern of ectotherms, as it also lived longer at the lower limit of its distribution, nor did it show a longer lifespan in areas with optimal habitats. These results might be explained by a complex combination of different gradients along the mountain, namely that activity time decreases with altitude whereas food availability increases. This could explain why lifespan was maximum at both high (limited activity time) and low (limited food availability) altitudes, resulting in similar lifespans in areas with contrasting environmental conditions. Our findings also indicated that reproductive investment and body condition increase with elevation, suggesting that alpine populations are locally adapted.
Commisse Gezondheid en Welzijn Gezelschapsdieren (2000) -
Companyo, L. (1863) -
Compte Sart, A. (1966) -
Compte Sart, A. (1968) -
Conant, R. (1959) -
Conde Lázaro, S. (2016) -
Conradie, W. (2012) -
Conradie, W. (2013) -
Conradie, W. (2020) -
Conradie, W. & Bills, R. & Branch, W.R. (2016) -
Angola`s herpetofauna has been neglected for many years, but recent surveys have revealed unknown diversity and a consequent increase in the number of species recorded for the country. Most historical Angola surveys focused on the northeastern and southwestern parts of the country, with the southeast , now comprising the Kuando-Kubango Province, neglected. To address this gap a series of rapid biodiversity surveys of the upper Cubango-Okavango basin were conducted from 2012‒2015. This report presents the results of these surveys, together with a herpetological checklist of current and historical records for the Angolan drainage of the Cubango, Cuito, and Cuando Rivers. In summary 111 species are known from the region, comprising 38 snakes, 32 lizards, five chelonians, a single crocodile and 34 amphibians. The Cubango is the most western catchment and has the greatest herpetofaunal diversity (54 species). This is a reflection of both its easier access, and thus greatest number of historical records, and also the greater habitat and topographical diversity associated with the rocky headwaters. As a result of these surveys, five new species records were added to the Cubango catchment, 17 to the Cuito catchment, and nine to the Cuando catchment. Seven of the records for the eastern catchments, including three for the Cuito and four for the Cuando, were also new for Angola. Resumo.—A herpetofauna de Angola foi negligenciada durante muitos anos, mas vários levantamentos realizados recentemente revelaram uma diversidade desconhecia e um consequente aumento no número de espécies registadas para o país. A maior parte dos levantamentos históricos realizados em Angola focaram-se no nordeste e sudoeste do país, sendo o sudeste, que agora abrange a província do Kuando-Kubango, bastante negligenciado. Para preencher esta lacuna, foram realizados vários levantamentos de biodiversidade na bacia superior do Cubango-Okavango entre 2012 e 2016. Neste relatório são apresentados os resultados destes levantamentos, bem como uma lista de registos herpetológicos recentes e históricos para as bacias dos rios Cubango, Cuito, e Cuando. Resumidamente, conhecem-se 111 espécies para a região, incluindo 39 espécies de cobras, 32 espécies de lagartos, 5 espécies de quelónios, apenas um crocodilo, e 34 espécies de anfíbios. A bacia hidrográfica do Cubango é a que está localizada mais a oeste, e tem a maior diversidade de herpetofauna (54 espécies). Isto reflecte por um lado a sua maior acessibilidade, e consequentemente um maior número de registos históricos, e ainda a maior diversidade topográfica e de habitat, associada às nascentes rochosas. Como resultado destes levantamentos, foram adicionadas cinco novas espécies à bacia do Cubango, 17 à do Cuito, e nove à do Cuando. Sete dos registos para as bacias a este, incluindo trois para o Cuito e quatro para o Cuando, são também novos registos para Angola.
Conradie, W. & Bittencourt-Silva, G.B. & Engelbrecht, H.M. & Loader, S.P. & Menegon, M. & Nanvonamuquitxo,C. & Scott, M. & Tolley, K.A. (2016) -
We carried out a survey of reptiles and amphibians within Afromontane forest and woodland slopes of three inselbergs in northern Mozambique (Mount Mabu, Mount Namuli, and Mount Ribáuè). A total of 56 species (22 amphibians and 34 reptiles) were recorded during the current survey. Our findings substantially increase the number of herpetofaunal species recorded from these mountains (Mount Ribáuè 59%, Mount Mabu 37%, and Mount Nam-uli 11% of the total species), including one new country record and several putative new species. An updated checklist of the herpetofauna of these mountains is presented.
Conradie, W. & Douchette-Riise, S. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Engelbrecht, H.M. & Measey, G.J. & Tolley, K.A. (2011) -
Conradie, W. & Engelbrecht, H.M. & Herrel, A. & Measey, G.J. & Nielsen, S.V. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Tolley, K.A. (2011) -
Conradie, W. & Measey, G.J. & Branch, W.R. & Tolley, K. (2012) -
Although reptile diversity in Africa is high, it is poorly represented in Angola, with just 257 species known. Despite its greater surface area and habitat diversity Angola has significantly lower lacertid lizard diversity than adjacent Namibia. This is particularly notable in African sand lizards (Pedioplanis), where 10 species (two endemic) are known from Namibia but only two are recorded from adjacent Angola. Pedioplanis benguelensis was described from Angola, but its taxonomic status is problematic and it was previously synonymised with P. namaquensis. All other Angolan Pedioplanis were referred to Namibian P. undata, although this taxon is now known to comprise a complex of at least five different species and the relationship of Angolan material to this complex has not been assessed. In this study, we investigated the phylogenetic placement of Angolan Pedioplanis using two mitochondrial (ND2 and 16S) and one nuclear (RAG-1) markers. A Bayesian analysis was conducted on 21 samples from Angola, combined with existing data for 45 individuals from GenBank and three additional samples from central Namibia. The phylogeny demonstrates that P. benguelensis is a valid species and that it is not the sister taxon to P. namaquensis with which it has been morphologically confused. In addition, Angolan lacertids previously referred to P. undata are not conspecific with any of the Namibian or South African species in that complex. Rather, there is strong support for the presence in Angola of additional species of Pedioplanis, which form a wellsupported sister clade to the P. undata complex (sensu stricto) of Namibia and two ofwhich are described herein. These discoveries highlight the need for further biodiversity surveys in Angola, as similar increases in species diversity in other Angolan taxa might be found given sufficient investment in biodiversity surveys.
Conradie, W. & Preez, B. du & Venter, J. (2017) -
Consejeria de Medio Ambiente y Ordenación Territorial (2004) -
Constantinou, C. (1985) -
Specimens of this day-active lizard species were shown to possess an endogenous circadian rhythm of activity and rest, which is synchronized both by light-dark cycles and by regularly fluctuating temperatures. In continuous light at a constant temperature (31°C), the rhythm free-runs somewhat imprecisely, with a period of about 22.5 h as is to be expected in a diurnal animal, according to the “circadian rule”;. The ecological significance of the mode of rhythm synchronization is discussed.
Constanzo, J.P. & Grenot, C. & Lee, R.E. (1995) -
The European common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) is widely distributed throughout Eurasia and is one of the few Palaearctic reptiles occurring above the Arctic Circle. We investigated the cold-hardiness of L. vivipara from France which routinely encounter sub-zero temperatures within their shallow hibernation burrows. In the laboratory, cold-acclimated lizards exposed to subfreezing temperatures as low as -3.5 degrees C could remain unfrozen (supercooled) for at least 3 weeks so long as their microenvironment was dry. In contrast, specimens cooled in contact with ambient ice crystals began to freeze within several hours. However, such susceptibility to inoculative freezing was not necessarily deleterious since L. vivipara readily tolerated the freezing of its tissues, with body surface temperatures as low as -3.0 degrees C during trials lasting up to 3 days. Freezing survival was promoted by relatively low post-nucleation cooling rates (< or = 0.1 degrees C.h-1) and apparently was associated with an accumulation of the putative cryoprotectant, glucose. The cold-hardiness strategy of L. vivipara may depend on both supercooling and freeze tolerance capacities, since this combination would afford the greatest likelihood of surviving winter in its dynamic thermal and hydric microenvironment.
Cook, L.M. (1979) -
Samples of Lacerta dugesii were collected on the Madeiran islands, measured and scored for number of scales in seven scale rows. Body length is related to age. Scale number varies between the island groups but does not appear to decrease in variance with age. Relative leg length declines in variability with age and varies significantly from one sample to another on Madeira.
Cook, L.M. (1983) -
Cook, L.M. & Yalden, D.W. (1980) -
Cooke, A.S. (1991) -
Cooper Jr., W.E. (1991) -
The ability to discriminate prey chemicals from control substances and the presence of a poststrike elevation in tongue-flicking (PETF) rate are experimentally demonstrated in the lacertid lizard,Podarcis muralis, The tongue-flick attack score, a composite index of response strength, was significantly higher in response to integumental chemicals from cricket than to cologne or distilled water. The cricket chemicals additionally elicited a significantly greater rate of tongue-flicking and higher proportion of attacks by the lizards than did control stimuli. PETF combined with apparent searching movements strongly suggest the presence of strike-induced chemosensory searching (SICS). Experimental evidence indicates that both PETF and SICS occur in insectivorous representatives of three families of actively foraging autarchoglossan lizards, suggesting their widespread occurrence in such lizards. The adaptive roles of chemosensory behavior in the foraging behavior of P.Muralis are discussed. It is proposed that these lizards may form chemical search images and that PETF and SICS may have been present in the lacertilian ancestors of snakes.
Cooper Jr., W.E. (2001) -
Cooper Jr., W.E. (2004) -
Lacertid lizards can identify and acces the quality of food, potential predators, and conspecifics using chemical cues. Lingually mediated prey chemical discrimination occurs in all species tested, with one posible exception. Omnivorous species identify both prey and plant foods using chemical cues, but carnivorous species identify only prey chemicals, suggesting that correlated evolution may have occured betwen plant diet and chemosensoryresponse to plant cues.Protein and fat elictelevated tongue-flicking and biting, whereas sugar solutions induce concentration-dependent licking. Lacertids also detect plant defensive compounds, which may enable them to avoid intoxication. At least one lacertid can also locate fruit using airborne cues. Some lacertids that detect chemical cues from snakes that eat lizards exhibit increased rates of tongue-flicking, indicating investigation, and perform several behaviours that presumably reduce the probability of being captured. These responses are innate, appearing in hatchlings not previously exposed to predators or their chemical cues, and are known only in lacertids. Pheromonal communication is known to occur in a few lacertid species. The evidence includes elevated tongue-flicking ates in cages previously occupied by conspecifics, diffrenial tongue-flick rates indicating discrimination between chemical cues from conspecific males and females, and chemical discrimination between closely related species. There is also evidence for recognition of maternal chemical cues and those from familiar sibling by one species. Differential tongue-flick rates of fecal pellets also reveal an ability to discriminate between and individual`s own pheromones and those of other individualsn of the same sex and to detect size differences among individuals.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Caldwell, J.P. & Vitt, L.J. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Baird, T.A. (2002) -
Lizards use chemical cues to locate and identify prey and plant food, assess the nutritional quality of food, and detect plant toxins. Among insectivorous lizards, all actively foraging species studied respond strongly to prey chemicals sampled lingually, but ambush foragers do not. Much recent research has been devoted to assessing differential responses to food and nonfood chemicals (i.e., food-chemical discrimination) by omnivorous and herbivorous species and determining whether correlated evolution has occurred between plant diet and plant-chemical discrimination. We conducted experimental studies of food-chemical discrimination by two species of teiid lizards, the omnivorous Cnemidophorus murinus and the actively foraging insectivorous Ameiva ameiva. The omnivore distinguished both prey and plant chemicals from control substances. The insectivore exhibited prey-chemical, but not plant-chemical, discrimination, as indicated by tongue-flicking and biting. A comparative analysis using concentrated-changes tests showed that correlated evolution has occurred between plant consumption and plant-chemical discrimination in a major lizard taxon, Lacertiformes. These results extend and strengthen previous findings of similar correlated evolution to a new group and add to a growing database indicating that omnivorous lizards use chemical cues to assess both prey and plant foods.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Dimopoulos, I. & Pafilis, P. (2014) -
Island populations may evolve distinct behavioral repertoires as a response to the conditions of insular life. Strong intraspecific competition is typical in insular lizards and may include cannibalism. In this study, we investigated sexual and age patterns of aggression in two populations of the Skyros wall lizard (Podarcis gaigeae), one from the main island of Skyros (Aegean Sea, Greece) and another from the satellite islet Diavates. The latter is terrestrial predator-free biotope, hosting a dense population of large-bodied lizards that have been reported to exert cannibalism. In staged encounters, we examined the aggressive propensities of adult male and female lizards against their age-peers and juveniles. Males from both populations were much more aggressive than females toward juveniles and other adults. Males from Diavates were more frequently aggressive to juveniles and other male lizards than males from Skyros. Diavates cannibals also captured their targets at shorter latency. We ascribe this distinct behavioral pattern to the high population density. Infanticide and intra-male aggressiveness confer two great advantages to cannibals: food and elimination of future rival.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Hawlena, D. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2009) -
Escape theory predicts that flight initiation distance (FID = predator-prey distance when escape begins) increases as predation risk increases. We tested effects of variation of approach speed and directness, predator persistence, concealment, and weather conditions on FID in the Balearic lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) by ourselves simulating predators. We examined effects of directness of approach on probability of fleeing and of repeated approach on entering refuge and distance fled. As predicted, FID was greater for faster approach speed, more direct approach, during second than first approaches, and when lizards were exposed than partially concealed. Other effects of directness of approach and repeated approach also were as predicted by greater assessed risk by the lizards. The proportion of individuals that fled was greater for direct than indirect approaches. The proportion of lizards that entered refuges and distance fled were greater during the second of two successive approaches. Effects of weather on FID were complex. FID was shortest in the warmest conditions with no noticeable wind, when lizards were active. Lizards were inactive and basked in the other conditions. FID was longest at 20°C without wind, and intermediate FID occurred at 18°C in windy conditions. We present hypotheses for weather effects. Tests are needed to unravel effects of temperature and wind speed. All predictions of escape theory for simple risk factors, i.e., all except than weather conditions, were confirmed. Escape theory successfully predicts FID for these risks in P. lilfordi, other lacertids, and more broadly, in ecologically and taxonomically diverse lizards.
Prey often exhibit reduced escape behavior on islands where predators are absent or scarce. Models of escape and refuge use predict that prey from populations having lower predation pressure have shortened flight initiation distance (FID; distance between a predator and a prey when escape begins), reduced distance fled and tendency to enter refuge, and shortened hiding time before emerging from refuge. By ourselves simulating approaching predators, we tested these predictions for two populations of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi (Müller, 1927), on the islets of Rei (higher predation pressure) and Aire (lower) adjacent to Menorca. FID, distance fled, and hiding time were shorter and probability of entering refuge was lower on Aire than on Rei, confirming all predictions. All effect sizes were large, indicating major differences in antipredatory behavior between islets. These findings are consistent with data for other lizards on FID and limited data on distance fled and refuge entry. The effect of predation pressure on hiding time is a novel finding. Our results and those of previous studies suggest that relaxation of predation pressure leads to reduced natural selection for maintenance of antipredatory behavior at all stages of predator–prey interactions over a relatively short time span.
Escape theory predicts flight initiation distance (FID, predator-to-prey distance when escape begins) based on fixed functions relating costs and benefits of fleeing to distance between a prey and an approaching predator. Theory accurately predicts effects of costs for fixed functions and changes in functions due to changes in predator behavior approach. Less obvious is how the effect of starting distance (predator-to-prey distance when approach begins) on FID can be explained when predator behavior does not change during approach. We simulated predators to study effects of starting distance on FID in Balearic lizards (Podarcis lilfordi). Starting distance and approach speed affected FID interactively. It increased as starting distance increased during faster, but not slower, approaches. Because risk functions are considered fixed for a given approach speed, we must explain why FID varies with starting distance, why only for rapid approach, and how risk is assessed. Because prey approached slowly assess risk as small until the predator is very close, approach from greater distance has little effect on risk curves. Because continued rapid approach suggests that the predator has detected the prey and is attacking, not merely approaching, risk varies with starting distance. Theoretical difficulty in explaining the effect of starting distance on FID disappears if risk curves vary among starting distances at faster approach speeds, but each curve is fixed. This might occur if prey use a temporal rule of thumb assigning increasing risk as duration of rapid approach increases.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Hawlena, D. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2010) -
Escape theory predicts that prey monitoring an approaching predator delay escape until predation risk outweighs costs of fleeing. However, if a predator is not detected until it is closer than the optimal flight initiation distance (FID = distance between predator and prey when escape begins), escape should begin immediately. Similarly, if a change in a nearby predator’s behavior indicates increased risk, the optimal FID increases, sometimes inducing immediate escape. If a predator that has been standing immobile near a prey suddenly turns toward the prey, greater risk is implied than if the predator turns away. If the immobile predator suddenly moves its foot without turning, it might be launching an attack. Therefore, we predicted that frequency of fleeing and preparation to flee are greater when a predator turns toward than away from prey and that frequency of fleeing when a predator suddenly moves decreases as distance between predator and prey increases. We verified these predictions in the Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi in field experiments in which an investigator simulated the predator. Lizards fled and performed alerting responses indicating readiness to flee more frequently when the predator turned toward than away from them, and fled more frequently the nearer the predator.
Cost–benefit models predict that hiding time in refuge increases with predation risk. Studies of diverse prey confirm this prediction for various single risk factors, but much less is known regarding joint effects of variation in multiple factors. For single risk factors, we predicted that Balearic lizards (Podarcis lilfordi) hide longer after faster and more direct approaches by predators and when predators attack persistently or remain close to the refuge. We predicted that effects of approach speed on hiding time would interact with those of directness of approach and predator proximity to the refuge. We simulated attacking predators by approaching lizards ourselves. Predictions for all single risk factors were confirmed: hiding time was greater after faster and more direct approaches, second than first attacks, and when an investigator stood closer to the refuge. These findings agree with those for other prey that are ecologically and phylogenetically diverse, suggesting that optimality theory is broadly applicable to refuge use. The predictions of interaction of approach speed were confirmed for both directness of approach and predator proximity, but the interaction between approach speed and predator proximity was opposite that predicted. Knowledge of the shapes of curves relating joint risks to hiding time are needed to use optimality theory to predict joint effects of multiple risk factors, but these shapes are unknown. Comparative studies are needed to detect quantitative effects of ecological and phylogenetic differences on hiding time.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & López, P. & Martín, J. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2012) -
When a predator is immobile near an immobile prey, the probability that the predator will detect and attack increases over time. The prey’s cost of moving, thereby abandoning crypsis due to immobility, therefore decreases. Cost of not moving increases over time if movement is required for prey to conduct fitness-enhancing activities. We tested a cost-benefit model that predicts effects of factors that affect predation risk and cost of not moving on a prey’s latency to flee. Acting as simulated predators, we conducted experiments on the lizards Iberolacerta cyreni and Podarcis lilfordi. All predictions for 5 risk factors and a cost of moving factor were verified. Lizards fled sooner when the predator stood closer, approached rapidly rather than slowly before stopping, approached directly rather than indirectly, and gazed at the lizard rather than away from it, and after the second of 2 successive approaches. Latency to move was shorter in the presence than absence of a mealworm, suggesting the importance of opportunity cost of immobility. The effect of standing distance has 2 components, greater rate of detection by the predator and greater risk of being captured if detected at shorter distances. Escape theory has been highly successful in predicting how close a prey allows a predator to approach before fleeing. Our model extends an economic approach to study of escape decisions in response to an immobile predator that may be an ambush forager or an active forager that has stopped moving nearby.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Martin, J. & Lopez, P. (2003) -
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Paulissen, M.A. & Habegger, J.J. (2000) -
Sampling environmental chemicals to reveal prey and predators and to provide information about conspecifics is highly developed in lizards. Actively foraging lizards can discriminate between prey chemicals and control stimuli, but ambush foragers do not exhibit prey chemical discrimination. Recent experiments on a few species of herbivorous lizards have also demonstrated an ability to identify plant food chemicals. We studied chemosensory responses to chemicals from prey and palatable plants in two species of actively foraging, insectivorous lizards. Both the lacertid Takydromus sexlineatus and the teiid Cnemidophorus gularis exhibited strong responses to prey chemicals, but not to plant chemicals. These findings increase confidence in the relationship between prey chemical discrimination and foraging mode, which is based on data for very few species per family. They also provide data showing that actively foraging insectivores in two families do not respond strongly to plant cues. Such information is essential for eventual comparative studies of the relationship between plant diet and responses to food chemicals. The traditional method of presenting stimuli by using hand-held cotton swabs worked well for T. sexlineatus but could not be used for C. gularis due to repeated escape attempts. When stimuli were presented to C. gularis on ceramic tiles and no experimenter was visible, the lizards responded readily. Presentation of stimuli on tiles in the absence of a visible experimenter may be a valuable approach to study of food chemical discrimination by active foragers in which antipredatory behavior interferes with responses to swabs.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2001) -
Actively foraging lizards are capable of identifying prey using only chemical cues sampled by tongue-flicking, and the relatively few omnivorous and herbivorous lizards tested similarly can identify both animal and plant foods from chemical cues. Whether lizards that eat plants respond to cues specific to preferred plant types and whether there is geographic variability in responses to cues from various plants correlated with the importance of those plants in local diets is unknown. In three populations of an omnivorous lacertid, the Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi, we studied chemosensory sampling and feeding responses to chemical cues from plant and animal foods presented on cotton swabs. Each lizard population is endemic to one islet off the coast of Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain. Lizards in all three populations discriminated chemical cues from plant and animal foods from control substances. Our results extend findings of prey chemical discrimination and plant chemical discrimination in omnivores, increasing confidence that correlated evolution has occurred between plant diet and chemosensory response to palatable plants. There were no consistent differences among populations in tongue-flicking and biting responses to stimuli from flowers of syntopic and allopatric plant species. The lizards may respond to cues indicative of palatability in a wide range of plant species rather than exhibiting strong responses only to locally available plant species. Nevertheless, tongue-flicking and biting frequencies varied among plant species, perhaps indicating food preferences. In addition, there were differences among populations in tongue-flick rates, latency to bite, and licking behavior. Licking was observed in only one lizard population as a response to floral chemicals from only one of the plants species tested, raising the possibility of a population-specific linkage between identification of a particular plant species and performance of an appropriate feeding response.
Although squamate reptiles are known to locate conspecifics by scent-trailing and to locate and identify prey by tongue-flicking substrates, an ability to locate food using only airborne cues has previously only been suspected based on observations that dead animals can be used as bait for Komodo dragons and that some nocturnal geckos aggregate on flowers. We conducted a simple field test of the ability of the omnivorous lizard Podarcis lilfordi from Aire islet (Illa de l`Aire) to find fruit hidden under opaque cups. When a board having two identical cups spaced 1 m apart, one empty and the other hiding a freshly cut piece of apricot, was placed in the habitat, lizards first contacted the cup hiding fruit at well above chance frequency. Upon contact with a cup, lizards were significantly more likely to stay next to the cup, tongue-flick at high rates, climb the cup, and attempt to bite the cup if it hid a piece of apricot. The ability to follow a concentration gradient of airborne volatile chemicals to its source is very likely mediated by olfaction, but participation by or primacy of vomerolfaction cannot be excluded.
We studied lingual and biting responses to food chemicals by two species of omnivorous lacertid lizards, the Canary Island endemics Gallotia simonyi (the giant lizard of El Hierro) and Gallotia caesaris (Boettger`s lizard), to ascertain their ability to discriminate between prey and plant food chemicals on the one hand and control stimuli on the other. We recorded frequencies of tongue-flicking and latency to bite in 60-s trials in which chemical stimuli on cotton-tipped applicators were presented to the lizards. Both species exhibited prey-chemical discrimination, as indicated by elevated tongue-flick rates and higher proportions of individuals biting in response to surface chemicals from crickets. Both species exhibited plant-chemical discrimination, as indicated by significantly greater tongue-flick rates and biting frequency in response to chemicals from tomato fruit than to the control stimuli. Juvenile G. simonyi responded much more strongly to chemical stimuli from tomato fruit than from leaves of Psoralea bituminosa, which is not a preferred food for juveniles. The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that chemosensory discrimination evolves in omnivorous lizards to permit evaluation of food quality, resulting in correspondence between plant diet and plant-chemical discrimination, both being absent in insectivores. The results are also consistent with the hypothesis that prey-chemical discrimination is retained and plant-chemical discrimination evolves in the omnivorous lizards derived from actively foraging insectivores.
Many lizards can identify food using only chemical cues, as indicated by tongue-flicking for chemical sampling and biting, but the effectiveness of the chemical components of food are unknown, as is the relationship between response strength and concentration. We investigated responses by the omnivorous lizard Gallotia caesaris to representatives of two major categories of organic food chemicals, lipids and carbohydrates. The stimuli, pork fat and sucrose solutions of varying concentration, were presented to lizards on cotton swabs and their lingual and biting behaviors were observed during 60-s tests. In the first experiment, fat elicited more tongue-flicks and bites than saturated sucrose or water (odorless control), biting being limited to the fat condition. Lizards licked at high rates, but exclusively in response to sucrose. A lick was a lingual protrusion in which the dorsal surface of the tongue contacted the swab, in contrast to the anteroventral contact made during tongue-flicks. In a second experiment, the number of licks, but not the number of tongue-flicks, increased with the concentration of sucrose. The results indicate that lipids contribute to prey chemical discrimination and are adequate to release some attacks, but are not as effective as releasers of attack as mixtures of prey chemicals obtained from prey surfaces. The findings with respect to licking are novel, and suggest that licking may be a response to gustatory stimulation by sugar, in contrast to previously observed prey chemical discriminations shown to require vomerolfaction.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2002) -
Specialist predators may respond strongly to sensory cues from preferred prey, but responses by generalist predators, although predicted to be less specific, are poorly known. Among squamate reptiles, diet and strength of response to chemical prey cues covary geographically in snakes that are specialist predators. There have been no previous studies of correspondence between diet and chemosensory response in lizards that are prey generalists. Actively foraging lizards discriminate between prey chemicals and control substances. It has been speculated that differential responses among prey species are unlikely in typical species that are dietary generalists. We examined this relationship in Podarcis lilfordi, an omnivorous lacertid that consumes a wide variety of animal prey. In experiments in which chemical stimuli were presented on cotton swabs, lizards responded more strongly to chemicals from a broad spectrum of prey types than to deionized water, an odorless control. These findings plus previous data showing that P. lilfordi is capable of prey chemical discrimination suggest that P. lilfordi can identify a wide range of potential prey using chemical cues. However, there was no evidence of differential response to stimuli among prey species, even in comparisons of prey included in the natural diet and potential prey not in the diet. The results, although limited to a single species, are consistent with the hypothesis that lizard species that are prey generalists do not exhibit the differential response strengths to chemical prey cues observed in snakes that have more specialized diets.
In some vertebrate taxa, pheromones provide important information about species, sex, reproductive condition, kinship, and even individual identity. Because they possess highly developed nasal chemosensory systems, lizards are capable of many chemical discriminations, but many aspects of their pheromonal communication remain poorly understood even in major families. We report that males of a lacertid lizard, Podarcis muralis, are capable of differential response to surface chemical cues from conspecific males and females, from gravid and nongravid females, and from conspecific females and females of the closely related sympatric congener, P. bocagei carbonelli. In 60 sec trials in which stimuli from the femoral, cloacal, lateral, and upper body surfaces were presented to males on cotton swabs, males tongue-flicked at significantly higher rates to stimuli from conspecific females than males, from conspecific nongravid than gravid females, and from conspecific than heterospecific females. Responses to stimuli from conspecific males did not differ from those to distilled water. Together with previous findings that males can distinguish between chemical cues from familiar and unfamiliar males, these findings suggest that pheromones provide male P. hispanica important information regarding the presence of sexual rivals and the reproductive condition of potential mates without visually encountering other lizards. A growing body of literature indicates that lacertids are capable of sophisticated pheromonal discriminations that may play important roles in their social behavior.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2003) -
Here we report the findings of field experiments on kleptoparasitism in the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, from Aire, an islet offshore from Menorca.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2004) -
Optimal escape theory predicts that prey permit closer approach by predators when fleeing is more costly, but does not predict other aspects of escape such as distance fled or the likelihood of returning to the initial site in the presence or absence of a resource such as food. Because a lizard preparing to feed may lose the feeding opportunity, optimal escape theory predicts that the lizard should allow a predator to approach closer before fleeing when a stationary food source is present than in its absence. In addition, we predicted that when a predator was nearby, lizards would flee a shorter distance and return more often when food was present than absent. We presented adult males of the omnivorous Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, with a tethered piece of pear or a pebble of similar size and shape. One of us approached a lizard in a standardized manner, stopping and remaining still when the lizard fled. The other investigator recorded escape and return behaviors. Lizards in the presence of food permitted closer approach before fleeing, fled a substantially shorter distance, and were far more likely to return to the site of stimulus presentation than when a pebble was presented. These findings suggest that prey may alter several aspects of escape behavior to reduce costs due to lost opportunities, and present a likelihood that interspecific variation exists in the combination of aspects of antipredatory behavior that are modified.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2011) -
Many predation risk factors to affect escape behavior by lizards, but effects of some potential risk factors are unknown or are variable among species. We studied effects of several risk factors on escape responses by the Balearic lizard (Podarcis lilfordi, Lacertidae) on escape responses. Escape was elicited by an approaching experimenter who recorded flight initiation distance (predator-prey distance when escape begins) and distance fled. When an experimenter approached from above (upslope), flight initiation distance and distance fled were longer than when the experimenter approached from below. This novel effect suggests that lizards exposed to aerial predation might have been naturally selected to respond rapidly to predators approaching from above or that effects of path inclination of escape ability may differ between predators and prey in a manner requiring a larger margin of safety during approaches from above than below. Although sex differences in aspects of escape occur in some lizards, including lacertids, no sex difference was observed in P. lilfordi. Because vigilance and some other aspects of antipredatory behavior exhibit cortical lateralization, we tested effects of approach from the left and right sides of lizards. As predicted by optimal escape theory, side of approach did not affect flight initiation distance. Because many lizards have color vision and respond to pigmentation of conspecifics in social settings, researchers have often worn only drably colored clothing when simulating predators. This precaution may be unnecessary because flight initiation distance did not differ among investigator shirt colors (red, orange, olive).
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2012) -
Island tameness (reduced escape behaviour on islands where prey have experienced prolonged relaxation of predation pressure) is known in several taxa, although the relationships between recent predation pressure and escape on islands are poorly known. We investigated escape by numerous populations exposed to differing predation pressure of two sister species of Podarcis lizards in the Balearic Islands. Our main findings are that flight initiation distance was greater in Podarcis pityusensis than Podarcis lilfordi and increased as predation pressure increased in P. pityusensis. Island tameness led to extinction of P. lilfordi on Menorca and Mallorca following anthropogenic introduction of predators; this species is extant only on nearby islets. The lack of relationship between recent predation pressure and flight initiation distance in P. lilfordi indicates that the historically acquired deficit in the ability to adjust escape behaviour to predation pressure still exists. Podarcis pityusensis, which was exposed to greater natural predation pressure before human introduction of predators, survives on Ibiza and Formentera, as well as on islets. Retention of the ability to respond to predation pressure is consistent with our finding that flight initiation distance increases as predation pressure increases among current populations.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Hawlena, D. (2006) -
During encounters with predators, prey must balance the degree of risk against the loss of fitness-enhancing benefits such as feeding and social activities. Most studies of tradeoffs between risk and cost of escaping have measured flight initiation distance and time to emerge from refuge, for which theory provides robustly supported predictions. Tradeoffs involving other aspects of encounters, including distance fled and time between escape and return to a food source, have received little theoretical or empirical attention. By adapting models of flight initiation distance and time between entry into refuge and emergence, we predict effects of predation risk and cost on distance fled and time to return to a source of benefit after fleeing. Acting as simulated predators that approached at a fixed speed, we conducted an experimental field study to test the hypotheses that flight initiation distance, distance fled, and time to return to food by Balearic lizards (Podarcis lilfordi) decrease with the presence and amount of insect food. Predictions of the models were strongly supported, including those for distance fled and return time, but predictions for other cost factors and predation risk factors remain to be tested. The study site was conducted on Aire (Illa de l`Aire), an islet off the coast of Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain in early May 2005 on sunny days between 8:45 AM and 3:50 PM when lizards were active and foraging. Aire is an ideal site for studies of tradeoffs between antipredatory behavior and foraging because the exceedingly high population density of the Aire population facilitates data collection.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Hawlena, D. (2007) -
The number of simultaneously attacking simulated predators and their approach speeds and angles affected escape trajectories and flight initiation distance in Balearic Lizards (Podarcis lilfordi). Our findings confirmed predictions prey flee in directions maximizing distance from predator(s). During slow approaches, escape angle was 45° when approached by two predators at right angles and 90° when approached from opposite directions. Escape at close to 45° by lizards approached at slower speed by a single predator supports the hypothesis that prey use escape trajectories allowing them to visually monitor predators. Flight angles were closer to being straight away from a predator during faster approaches, suggesting that distance maximization may be more important than monitoring predator position when risk is great. When predators approached from opposite directions, flight angle shifted away from the faster predator, suggesting that lizards may have equalized risk from both predators based on positions and speeds. Flight initiation distance was greater for approach by predators side by side than by one only during faster approaches, suggesting that risk is a joint function of predator number and speed. Flight initiation distance was greater when predators approached at right angles than side by side, perhaps because of difficulty of monitoring multiple predators in different locations. Distance fled did not differ among treatments and may have been affected by distance to refuge. Thus, Balearic Lizards adjusted flight initiation distance and escape trajectories in ways that enhanced their abilities to avoid predation during simultaneous approaches by two predators.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Hawlena, D. (2014) -
Foraging modes were described originally for insectivorous lizards, but many species are omnivorous or herbivorous. Because seeking and consuming plants might alter foraging, we studied foraging by the omnivorous Podarcis lilfordi at two sites: one where lizards licked nectar from flowers of Euphorbia paralias and the other where they sought insects. Movements per minute (MPM) did not differ among groups. Proportion of time spent moving (PTM) was similar in lizards that licked flowers and those that did not. Average speed (AS) was slower, and speed while moving (MS) was faster when foraging for nectar than for insects. Lizards foraging for nectar did not eat insects; those foraging for insects frequently ate them. For lizards foraging for prey, MPM increased as PTM, AS, and capture attempts increased and as PTM decreased. PTM increased as AS and capture attempts increased and decreased as MS increased. AS increased as MS increased. For lizards that licked, proportion of time licking (PTL) was unrelated to MPM, PTM, or AS but increased marginally as MS increased. Lizards foraging for nectar retained the PTM of lizards foraging for prey, but added a large PTL. The ancestral active foraging mode has been retained for hunting insects but modified to search for and lick nectar. While foraging for nectar, lizards greatly reduce attacks on insects, suggesting that, at a given time, an individual forages exclusively for nectar or prey. Reduced predation pressure on islands may have freed lizards to expand the diet by reducing risk during intervals exposed to view while climbing plants and licking nectar.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Vitt, L.J. (2002) -
Many lizards can identify food using chemical cues, but very little is known about the chemical constituents used for this purpose. We experimentally investigated responses to several lipid stimuli by the omnivorous lacertid lizard Podarcis lilfordi, which had been shown previously to be capable of identifying prey using only chemical cues and to respond to pork fat by tongue-flicking and biting. In 60-s trials in which stimuli were presented on cotton swabs, the lizards responded very strongly to pure pork fat and to oleic acid, but not to cholesterol or glycerol. Latency to bite swabs, the number of individuals that bit swabs, and the tongue-flick attack score, TFAS(R), which combines effects of tongue-flicks and bites, showed stronger responses to fat than to cholesterol, glycerol, and distilled water but did not differ significantly from responses to oleic acid. Several lines of evidence show that oleic acid elicited strong chemosensory and feeding responses. For individuals that did not bite, the number of tongue-flicks was significantly greater for oleic acid than for distilled water or glycerol, and nearly so for cholesterol. Latency to bite was significantly shorter for oleic acid than for distilled water, and TFAS(R) was significantly greater for oleic acid than for distilled water and glycerol. In combination with pilot data indicating no strong response to the waxy, saturated palmitic acid, these findings suggest that oleic acid in particular and probably other unsaturated fatty acids found in animal fat contribute strongly to the food-related responses to lipids.
Many lizards are capable of identifying food using only chemical cues from food surfaces, but almost nothing is known about the types of compounds that are effective stimuli. We experimentally studied lingual and biting responses by a lacertid lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, to single representatives of three major categories of food chemicals, sucrose as a carbohydrate, pure pork fat as a mixture of lipids, and bovine gamma globulin as a protein. In 60-sec trials in which stimuli were presented on cotton swabs, the lizards detected all three stimuli, exhibiting more tongue-flicks, licks, or bites, or a greater tongue-flick attack score (TFAS; overall measure of response strength to prey stimuli) than to deionized water. The initial response to all stimuli was tongue-flicking, but the lizards discriminated among the types of chemical stimuli. After preliminary tongue-flicks, the lizards responded to sucrose solutions by licking at high rates, to pure pork fat by biting, and to protein by a combination of additional tongue-flicks and biting. Biting is a feeding response to prey or solid plant material. Licking is a feeding response to sugars in nectar or ripe fruit. Its frequency increased with sucrose concentration. Our data suggest that lizards can identify several types of chemicals associated with food and direct feeding attempts to sources of such chemicals in the absence of visual cues.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Vitt, L.J. (2004) -
Costly anti-predatory defences are used in ecological time and maintained in evolutionary time by natural selection favouring individuals that survive through their use. Autotomy of expendable body parts is a striking example of a defence having multiple substantial costs, including loss of ability to use the same defence, loss of energy, and decreased growth, reproductive success and survival following autotomy, plus the energetic cost of replacing the lost body part in species capable of regenerating them. Our study shows that autotomy in the lacertid lizard Podarcis lilfordi reduces sprint speed, indicating decreased capacity to escape as well as the loss of energy. Autotomy carries substantial cost, and thus should be avoided except as a last resort. Ease of autotomy and post-autotomic movements were studied in three populations of lacertid lizards. Two were islet populations of Podarcis lilfordi from Aire (Illa de l`Aire) (lowest predation pressure) and Colom (Illa d`en Colom) (intermediate predation pressure) off Minorca. The third was a mainland population of Podarcis hispanica, a closely related species from the mainland of the Iberian Peninsula where predation pressure is higher than on the islets. As predicted, a suite of autotomic traits increases the effectiveness of autotomy as a defence as predation pressure increases. With increasing predation pressure, the frequency of voluntary autotomy increases, latency to autotomy decreases, pressure on the tail needed to induce autotomy decreases, vigour of post-autotomic tail movements increases, and distance moved by the shed tail increases. Additional changes that might be related to predation pressure, but could have other causes, are the presence of tail coloration contrasting with body coloration except under the lowest predation pressure (Aire) and longer tails in the mainland species P. hispanica. Correspondence between predation pressure and the suite of autotomic traits suggests that autotomy is an important defence that responds to natural selection. Comparative data are needed to establish the generality of relationships suggested in our study of only three populations.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Vitt, L.J. & Budzinsky, B. (2002) -
An ability to detect plant toxins and thereby avoid eating chemically defended plants would be very beneficial for omnivorous and herbivorous lizards. We studied the ability of the omnivorous Podarcis lilfordi to detect compounds belonging to three classes of common plant toxins, as well as responses indicating aversion. Solutions of the alkaloid quinine, saponin, and the phenolic coumarin, as well as distilled water (odorless control), were presented to lizards on cotton swabs. The lizards detected all three toxins as indicated by significantly decreased tongue-flick rates and tongue-flick attack scores in comparison with distilled water. Several other variables revealed aversion to saponin, including a low number of individuals that bit swabs, avoidance of swabs after tongue-flicking, performance after tongue-flicking the swab of repeated short-excursion tongue-flicks that were directed away from the swab and did not contact any substrate, failure to respond at all in the next trial, and wiping the snout on the floor of the terrarium. Reasons for apparent differences in tongue-flicking behavior between P. lilfordi and two other omnivorous lizard species are discussed. We also showed experimentally that saponin depresses the tongueflick rate in the omnivorous Bonaire whiptail lizard, Cnemidophorus murinus. Tongue-flicking enables at least one lizard species to detect specific chemicals representing three major classes of plant toxins. It is hypothesized that this ability is a widespread adaptation to reduce ingestion of plant toxins.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Pyron, A. & Garland, T. jr. (2014) -
One of Darwin`s most widely known conjectures is that prey are tame on remote islands, where mammalian predators are absent. Many species appear to permit close approach on such islands, but no comparative studies have demonstrated reduced wariness quantified as flight initiation distance (FID; i.e. predator–prey distance when the prey begins to flee) in comparison with mainland relatives. We used the phylogenetic comparative method to assess influence of distance from the mainland and island area on FID of 66 lizard species. Because body size and predator approach speed affect predation risk, we included these as independent variables. Multiple regression showed that FID decreases as distance from mainland increases and is shorter in island than mainland populations. Although FID increased as area increased in some models, collinearity made it difficult to separate effects of area from distance and island occupancy. FID increases as SVL increases and approach speed increases; these effects are statistically independent of effects of distance to mainland and island occupancy. Ordinary least-squares models fit the data better than phylogenetic regressions, indicating little or no phylogenetic signal in residual FID after accounting for the independent variables. Our results demonstrate that island tameness is a real phenomenon in lizards.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Vitt, L.J. (2002) -
Animal diets crucially affect fitness, yet many aspects of their ultimate determinants are unknown. The distribution and extent of herbivory in lizards, its evolutionary history, and ecological factors that may favour it are discussed. Most lizards are exclusively or primarily carnivorous, yet many species eat some plants and a few are almost exclusively herbivorous. Based on a literature survey of diets of over 450 lizard species, the distribution and degree of omnivory and herbivory are described. Some plants occur in the diets of slightly over half of lizard species, and plants formed 10% or more of the dietary volume of 12.1% of species, and 90% or more of the diet of 0.8% of species. The greatest percentage of omnivorous species (> 10% plant diet), over 30% in each, and highest mean percentage plant matter in the diet are in Iguanidae, Corytophanidae, Gerrhosauridae, Agamidae, Xantusiidae, and Tropiduridae. Numerous other omnivores occur in Lacertidae and Scincidae and fewer in several additional families. Herbivorous lizards (> 90% plant volume) tend to be folivorous and to possess adaptations for processing leaves, including specialized dentition for cutting or reducing leaves, elongated intestines, colic valves that slow passage of food, and intestinal flora that digest cellulose. Omnivorous lizards lacking such specializations may eat some leaves, but consume much more fruit, flowers, and seeds, plant parts that are easy to digest, likely to be very abundant seasonally, and may be highly nutritious. Some lizards eat nectar and pollen; even sap is eaten by at least one gecko. Ontogenetic increase in plant consumption and decrease in prey consumption is known, but its generality has been controversial. Such ontogeny has been demonstrated in three iguanid species, a skink, a lacertid, two tropidurids, a phrynosomatid, and two corytophanids, but it does not occur in some other species. Thus, the presences of ontogenetic variation must be evaluated for each species. The importance of specific foods may also vary with age. Omnivory and/or herbivory have originated in many lizard families, with at least nine origins in Iguania and 23 in Scleroglossa. Origins have been rare in Gekkonoidea and Anguimorpha and common in Scincomorpha, especially in Lacertidae and Scincidae. Losses of omnivory have been much less frequent than gains. Only a few origins can account for all the herbivory in lizards. Concentrated changes tests show that there is a significant association in Lacertidae, Lacertiformes, Lacertoidea, Scincidae, and Scleroglossa between insularity and omnivory. Insular lizards may broaden their diets to compensate for limited availability of prey. Addition of other factors that reduce availability of prey, i.e. extreme aridity and cave-dwelling, to insularity, strengthened the relationship to omnivory in Lacertidae and Lacertoidea. We were unable to demonstrate a role of aridity independent of insularity, but present anecdotal evidence suggests that it may promote evolution of plant consumption. Large body size in lizards has long been associated with herbivory, and more recently, with omnivory in lacertid lizards. Using a conventional regression approach in which each species is considered to supply an independent data point, this relationship was confirmed for all lizards. Although larger species have diets with more plants, plant consumption accounts for only 9% of the variation in body length, which is not surprising given that other factors such as predation, competition, and sexual selection affect body size. The frequency of transitions body size associated with transitions to ominivory or carnivory was also examined. In Iguania, Scleroglossa, and all lizards, transitions supporting the hypothesis that omnivory favours increase in body size were significantly more frequent than nonsupporting transitions. This suggests that substantial plant consumption favours evolution of larger size, probably because of the energetic considerations first presented by Pough (1973). Because actively foraging lizards move widely through the habitat to locate prey and tongue-flick to locate prey by chemical cues, we hypothesized that they may be more likely to evolve omnivory than ambush foragers, which wait motionless for prey and do not tongue-flick to locate or identify prey. The basis of this prediction is that the wider searching of active foragers predisposes them to contact with a greater variety and quantity of plants and that chemosensory tongue-flicking used by omnivores to identify plant food might be easier to evolve in active foragers that already use pre-chemical discrimination. The prediction is supported by a significantly greater per species frequency of origins of omnivory by active foragers than by ambushers. A scenario for the progressive evolution of omnivory and herbivory from ancestrally carnivorous lizards is discussed.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Whiting, M.J. (1999) -
Most lacertids are active foragers, but intrafamilial variation in foraging mode is greater than in most lizard families. We collected data on eight species of African lacertids to assess this variation. Both active and ambush foraging occurred within Pedioplanis and Meroles. Meroles ctenodactylus had a proportion of time moving and proportion of attacked prey detected while moving intermediate to those for actively foraging and ambushing Pedioplanis, but its number of movements per minute was exceptionally high. This species has a unique mixed foraging mode. Like active foragers, it seeks food by tongue-flicking while moving and spends a high percentage of the time moving. Like ambush foragers, it searches visually for prey during pauses between movements. Our findings confirm published data on four Kalahari lacertids. We discuss the history of foraging modes in advanced lacertids.
Cooper, J.E. & Gschmeissner, S. & Holt, P.E. (1982) -
Cooper, J.S. (1958) -
Cooper, J.S. (1961) -
Cooper, J.S. (1963) -
Cooper, J.S. (1965) -
Cooper, W.E. (1990) -
Cooper, W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2002) -
In snakes, many of which have fairly specialized diets, there is a correspondence between diet and chemosensory responsiveness to food cues not yet demonstrated in lizards, most of which are generalist insectivores. If such a correspondence exists for plants consumed by omnivorous species, we can make two predictions. Actively foraging insectivorous lizards such as most lacertids should exhibit prey chemical discrimination, but be unresponsive to chemicals from palatable plants. Omnivorous species derived from insectivores should discriminate both prey and plant chemicals from control substances. We show in experiments testing lingual and biting responses to food cues and control stimuli that the lacertid insectivores Podarcis hispanica and Lacerta perspicillata exhibit prey, but not plant, chemical discrimination and the omnivore P.sicula discriminates both prey and plant chemicals from control substances. The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that correlated evolution has occurred between plant consumption and plant chemical discrimination in lacertids, but data are needed for several more lineages of independently derived omnivores and for additional insectivores to test the hypothesis statistically.
Cooper, W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2010) -
Cooper, W.E. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Sillero, N. (1991) -
Cope, E.D. (1862) -
Copplestone, D. & Koulikov, A.O. & Semenov, D.V. (2005) -
Results of radionuclide analysis in common reptiles species collected on two radioactive contaminated territories in Russia are presented. It is shown that they adequately accumulate radioactive pollutants including trace ones and so could be effectively used for biomonitoring objectives.
Corbett, K.F. (1969) -
The sand lizard in Britain is well on the way to extinction, thanks to the destruction of its favoured habitats – sand dunes and dry heath. The author, who has been engaged in full-time research on the surviving populations, has started breeding sand lizards in captivity, using animals taken from sites that are being destroyed, and hopes to reintroduce them in protected areas.
Corbett, K.F. (1974) -
Corbett, K.F. (1985) -
Corbett, K.F. (1988) -
Corbett, K.F. (1989) -
Corbett, K.F. (1994) -
Corbett, K.F. (1999) -
Corbett, K.F. (2002) -
Corbett, K.F. & Balletto, E. & Martinez Rica, J.P. & Podloucky, R. & Stumpel, A. (1985) -
Corbett, K.F. & Moulton, N. (1996) -
Corbett, K.F. & Moulton, N. (1998) -
Corbett, K.F. & Tamarind, D.L. (1979) -
Corbidge, C. (2009) -
Cordero, G.A. & Andersson, B.A. & Sopuchet, J. & Micheli, G. & Noble, D.W.A. & Gangloff, J. & Ulber, T. & Aubret, F. (2017) -
Coping with novel environments may be facilitated by plastic physiological responses that enable survival during environmentally sensitive life stages. We tested the capacity for embryos of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) from low altitude to cope with low-oxygen partial pressure (hypoxia) in an alpine environment. Developing embryos subjected to hypoxic atmospheric conditions (15–16% O2 sea-level equivalent) at 2,877 m above sea level exhibited responses common to vertebrates acclimatized to or evolutionarily adapted to high altitude: suppressed metabolism, cardiac hypertrophy, and hyperventilation. These responses might have contributed to the unaltered incubation duration and hatching success relative to the ancestral, low-altitude, condition. Even so, hypoxia constrained egg energy utilization such that larger eggs produced hatchlings with relatively low mass. These findings highlight the role of physiological plasticity in maintaining fitness-relevant phenotypes in high-altitude environments, providing impetus to further explore altitudinal limits to ecological diversification in ectothermic vertebrates.
Cords, E. (1909) -
Cördük, N. & Gul, C. & Tosunoglu, M. & Özdemir, N. (2018) -
Background: Podarcis muralis, Podarcis siculus, and Podarcis tauricus are known to extend their range into the territory of Turkey. A new locality of P. tauricus was discovered in the Çardak Lagoon, in the Anatolian part of Çanakkale, Turkey. There has been no report on the evaluation of the taxonomic status of newly recorded population in the Anatolian side of Çanakkale. Objectives: For this reason, the purpose of this study is to investigate the phylogenetic position of this newly recorded population using partial 16S rRNA and cytochrome b gene sequences. Methods: 16S rRNA and cyt b gene sequences of the Çardak population were compared with the Gelibolu, Kırklareli (Thrace Region) and Şile populations (Anatolian part of İstanbul). We reconstructed the phylogenetic tree according to Neighbor-Joining tree approach using MEGA v.6. Also we built a haplotype network to examine the haplotype diversity and structure for the concatenated mt DNA dataset. Results: Neighbor-Joining tree and the haplotype network have the same topology showing the newly discovered population grouped together with the other P. tauricus populations. Conclusions: According to our results, Çardak population is genetically almost similar with Gelibolu population, which isolated by Dardanelles strait.
Cornelissen, T. (1971) -
The author spent two nights trying to take a photo of Lacerta siCilia campestris emerging from the egg. The first night he sat up till six o`clock in the morning, only to see a young emerge with lightning speed and photogra- phing it was impossible. The second night he opened an already broken shell a little bit further, whereupon the young slowly crept out of the egg. The photos speak for them- selves. One of them is to be seen on the front- page of this issue. The last photo shows the egg-tooth of the young.
Cornelissen, T.J.P. (1948) -
Cornetti, L. (2014) -
Global change is heavily affecting Alpine ecosystems in term of both climate warming and anthropization and its effects have been already demonstrated for many different taxa. However, understanding the genetic consequences on wild species caused by environmental modifications is complicated. In this thesis, I analyzed the genetic variation pattern in two vertebrate species whose distribution and persistence across the Italian Alps could be, or already have been, affected by changing climatic conditions and human pressures for assessing their conservation status. I collected semi-invasive samples of the yellow-bellied toad Bombina variegata and of the common lizard Zootoca vivipara in the central-eastern part of Alpine chain for performing molecular analyses and subsequent statistical inferences. Different types of genetic data were used for different aims, such as mitochondrial and nuclear sequences for confirming the ESU status of a threatened lineage, microsatellite markers for evaluating genetic variability and demographic histories of wild populations or genomic SNPs for studying a major evolutionary phenotypic transition. The analyses suggested that some of the studied populations of both species suffer from reduced genetic variability and low effective population size, even if this pattern is not directly ascribable to recent anthopogenic and climatic changes. In the light of these results, however, specific conservation measure should be evaluated for these species, which are considered of least concern by the IUCN, in particular considering the predicted increase of temperature and expected modifications for their most suitable habitats.
Cornetti, L. & Belluardo, F. & Ghielmi, S. & Ficetola, G.F. & Bertorelle, G. & Vernesi, C. & Mauffe, H.C. (2015) -
Contact zones between two evolutionary lineages are often useful for understanding the process of speciation because the observed genetic pattern reflects the history of differentiation. The Eurasian lacertid lizard Zootoca vivipara is a potentially interesting model for studying the role of reproductive mode in the speciation of squamate reptiles because it has both oviparous (Zootoca vivipara carniolica) and viviparous (Zootoca vivipara vivipara) populations that have recently been shown to be genetically distinct. We studied a newly-discovered syntopic area of these two Zootoca subspecies in the central Italian Alps using genetic markers to investigate the level of introgression between them. Patterns of genetic differentiation in a fragment of the mitochondrial DNA cytb gene and a set of nuclear microsatellites show that the speciation process is complete in this area, with no evidence of recent introgression. Phylogenetic and genotypic divergence suggests that the two subspecies have experienced long independent evolutionary histories, during which genetic and phenotypic differences evolved. The possible roles of biogeography, reproductive mode, and cytogenetic differentiation in this speciation process are discussed.
Cornetti, L. & Benazzo, A. & Bruford, M.W. & Bertorelle, G. & Vernesi, C. (2012) -
The lizard Zootoca vivipara is one on the few example in Nature which shows, within the same species, populations with different reproductive modalities. Oviparous populations live in the southern part of its distributional range (the newly discovered Z.v.carniolica in Eastern-Italian Alps and Z.v.louislantzi in the Pyrenees), while viviparous subspecies (e.g. Z.v.vivipara and Z.v.sachalinensis) are widely distributed from British Isles and central France to Scandinavia and north-eastern Asia. This species is, therefore, particularly well suited for studying the evolutionary shift in reproductive mode.
Cornetti, L. & Benazzo, A. & Panziera, A. & Bruford, M. & Bertorelle, G. & Vernesi, C. (2013) -
Some squamate reptile species provide a unique model system for gaining crucial information about the evolutionary transition from oviparity to viviparity in vertebrates. The lizard Zootoca vivipara is one of the few species with distinct reproductive modalities in different subspecies; in particular, Z. v. carniolica is an egg-laying lizard while Z. v. vivipara is a live-bearing one; they both live in the Eastern Italian Alps, sometimes in sintopy. This provides an interesting natural setting for studying the evolutionary shift in reproductive mode. Some populations were analysed using classical genetic markers (mitochondrial, nuclear DNA sequences and autosomal microsatellites). The mtDNA results indicated a marked divergence between the two subspecies (around 5% at the cytochrome B), as well as nuclear microsatellites. Possible existence of hybrid individuals in Carnic Alps, as recently reported by morphological evidences, has boosted the interest on this topic. RAD-tag sequencing, a next-generation sequencing technique that allows simultaneously discovering and analyzing hundreds of thousands of SNPs, was then applied to Zootoca vivipara subspecies in order to identify mutations correlated with the reproductive modality and with related adaptive traits.
Cornetti, L. & Ficetola, G.F. & Hoban, S. & Vernesi, C. (2015) -
Identification of cryptic species is an essential aim for conservation biologists to avoid premature extinctions of ‘unrecognized’ species. Integrating different types of data can undoubtedly aid in resolving the issue of species delimitation. We studied here two lineages of the common lizard Zootoca vivipara that display different reproductive mode (the viviparous Z. v. vivipara and the oviparous Z. v. carniolica) and that overlap their distributional ranges in the European Alps. With the purpose of delimiting species’ boundaries, we analyzed their ecological, genetic and natural history features. More than 300 samples were collected and analyzed at cytochrome b and 11 microsatellites loci for investigating genetic variation, population structure, individual relatedness and evolutionary histories of the two lineages. Additionally, we compared their ecological niches using eight ecological variables. Genetic data showed contrasting patterns of genetic structure between the two lineages, different demographic dynamics and no hybridization events. Also strong ecological differences (such as temperature) emerged between the two lineages, and niche overlap was limited. Taken together, these results indicate that Z. v. vivipara and Z. v. carniolica should be recognized as two separate species, and particular conservation consideration should be given to the oviparous lineage that tends to live in areas threatened by increasing impact of human activities. However, recent and rapid climate warming might determine an increasing risk for the persistence of the viviparous lineage, being adapted to cold environments.
Cornetti, L. & Girardi, M. & Ghielmi, S. & Vernesi, C. (2018) -
Genetic variability, one of the main factors that guarantees species persistence, and species’ conservation status are generally evaluated with indices calculated at the present time. Natural history collections might help compare historical and current genetic diversity so to identify major trends. Here we analysed museum specimens of the lizard Zootoca vivipara carniolica, with a specific and stringent protocol for degraded DNA, in order to contrast its past and current genetic variability, using fragments of one mitochondrial DNA gene. Part of the distributional range of Z. v. carniolica (Po Plain, Italy), heavily impacted by human activities, was investigated. We found two previously unknown haplotypes in populations that are extinct today, suggesting the loss of these haplotypes and thus an overall shrinking of genetic variability. We argue that these results, together with the increasing threats posed by climate and land use changes, suggest that specific conservation measures for the persistence of Z. v. carniolica in Northern Italian lowlands have to be considered.
Cornetti, L. & Griffith, O.W. & Panziera, A. & Whittington, C.M. & Thompson, M.B. & Vernesi, C. & Bertorelle, G. (2017) -
Viviparity has evolved from oviparity at least 150 independent times in vertebrates. More than 80% of these transitions have occurred in squamate reptiles, where both reproductive modes are rarely seen in different populations of the same species. This condition (bimodal reproduction) is ideal for studying the physiological and morphological changes underpinning the evolution of reproductive mode, and their genetic determinants. Here we analysed the genomes of Zootoca vivipara populations with either oviparous or viviparous reproduction using a RAD sequencing approach. No signature of interbreeding between oviparous and viviparous individuals was found. We conservatively identified 22 annotated coding sequences in genes potentially associated with parity mode differences. Six of these genes are transcription regulators that are also expressed in reproductive tissues of mammals and reptiles, suggesting that changes in gene expression are important for the evolution of viviparity. Using a more inclusive approach based on contigs mapping in either coding or non-coding regions, 45 genes were identified. Twelve of these candidate genes are transcription regulators and four encode protease enzymes. We propose that the evolution of proteases may support morphological changes to the uterus during pregnancy. This study provides the foundation for further experimental studies of the genetic basis of parity mode in Z. vivipara.
Cornetti, L. & Menegon, M. & Giovine, G. & Heulin, B. & Vernesi, C. (2014) -
The European common lizard Zootoca vivipara exhibits reproductive bimodality, with populations being either viviparous or oviparous. In the central-eastern Italian Alps oviparous populations (Z. v. carniolica) and viviparous populations (Z. v. vivipara) partly overlap geographically. Studying the evolutionary relationship between these taxa presents an interesting opportunity to gain insight into the evolution of this trait. We aim to: i) test whether Z. v. carniolica, which is endangered, constitutes an ESU (Evolutionary Significant Unity); ii) infer mtDNA divergence time between the Z. v. carniolica clade and all the other Z. vivipara subspecies with the aid of an external calibration point; and iii) describe the phylogeographical and demographic scenarios in the area. To do so we sequenced about 200 individuals for mitochondrial variation; 64 of them were also analysed for three nuclear genes. Furthermore, we analysed the same nuclear markers in 17 individuals from the other oviparous subspecies Z. v. louislantzi and 11 individuals of Z. v. vivipara from widespread geographical origins. The mtDNA and nDNA loci that we examined supported the monophyly of Z. v. carniolica. The mtDNA-based estimate of divergence time between Z. v. carniolica and all the other subspecies indicated a separation at 4.5 Mya (95% CI 6.1–2.6), with about 5% of sequence divergence. Considering that Z. v. carniolica harbours higher genetic diversity, while Z. v. vivipara from central-eastern Alps shows a signature of recent population and spatial expansion, we argue that Z. v. carniolica represents a distinct evolutionary unit, with a presumably long-term evolutionary history of separation. Z. v. carniolica populations, occurring at higher latitudes and altitudes than insofar supposed, live in peat bogs, a seriously threatened habitat: taking into account also its evolutionary distinctness, specific conservation measures should be considered.
Cornuaille, J.-F. (2012) -
Corovic, J. & Cogalniceanu, M. & Carretero, M.A. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2018) -
One of the most interesting but elusive members of the European herpetofauna is the meadow lizard (Darevskia praticola). It is a small, ground dwelling, predominantly forest living lacertid, for which many ecological and biological data are still missing. Moreover, at least for the western part of the species range (south-eastern Europe) its distribution and environmental associations are insufficiently known, likely due to difficulties in detection even with intensive field sampling. Here, we complemented the available literature records with our personal observations and explored the effects of environmental factors shaping the species ecological niche and distribution in Europe using the ecological niche modelling approach from Maxent software. The new records of the meadow lizard fill a gap in its known distribution. The most suitable habitats are in central and eastern Serbia, south-western Romania, and central, southern and south-western Bulgaria. Mean temperature of the coldest quarter, vegetation and slope had the strongest effect in defining the meadow lizard’s ecological niche. Niche suitability increased with the increase in forest cover and slope, while the temperature showed a bell-shaped response with a rather narrow tolerance range for temperature. Contrary to expectations, precipitation seemed to have no contribution to the species occurrence. Ecological niche model performance increased with a higher resolution of predictor variables despite the lower number of available occurrence records, although the slope variable had a greater predictive power when calculated at a lower resolution. Interestingly, high resolution vegetation variables (30 m) were able to show some level of habitat fragmentation, which likely resulted from deforestation. Overall, our results epitomize the effects of limited sampling on the biogeography inference of elusive species while having significant repercussions on conservation priorities and management of the species.
Corovic, J. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2018) -
We studied the thermal biology of the meadow lizard (Darevskia praticola) in the peripheral part of its distribution range (westernmost edge of the distribution area). We assessed whether these lizards actively thermoregulate, estimated the accuracy and effectiveness of thermoregulation, and evaluated the thermal quality of the habitat using the standard thermal parameters: body (Tb), preferred (Tpref) with set-point range (Tset) and operative temperatures (Te). Tset of the meadow lizard under controlled laboratory conditions was between 27.8°C and 31.4°C. In the field Tb and Te averaged 29.0°C and 26.1°C, respectively. A large proportion of Tes fell below the Tset range of the meadow lizard, and lizard Tbs were substantially closer to the species’ Tset range. Obtained values of thermoregulatory indices suggested that the meadow lizard thermoregulated actively, with a rather high accuracy (db = 0.8) and effectiveness (E = 0.8 and de - db = 2.6), and that their habitat at this locality was thermally favourable during the spring. Our results suggest that thermal requirements of the meadow lizard resemble those of alpine lacertids, while their Tbs and Tset are lower than in most lacertid lizards. Further thermoregulation studies could be an important step in predicting the impact of the global climate change on the meadow lizard and the risks of local extinctions of its peripheral populations.
Corral, J.M. de & Miralles, A. & Nicolau, M.C. & Planas, B. & Rial, R.V. (1990) -
Corsetti, L. & Capula, M. (1992) -
The checklist and a provisional atlas of the amphibian and reptile species occurring in the Lepini Mountains (Latium, central Italy) are reported. Eleven species of amphibians and seventeen species of reptiles have been found in the study area. These species represent 85% of the entire central Italian herpetofauna. One species (Testudo hermanm) seems to be recently extinct probably due to over-collecting and habitat perturbance, and at present occurs in semi natural conditions only (specimens introduced by man). The dominant species are Salamandrina terdigitata, Triturus carnifex, Triturus vulgaris, Bufo bufo, Rana italica, Rana sinklepton esculenta, Lacerta viridis, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis sicula, Chalcides chalcides, Hierophis viridillavus, and Natrix natrix. From the biogeographical point of view, the most interesting species are Salamandrina terdigitata, Bombina variegata, Rana italica, Podarcis sicula, Chalcides chalcides, Elaphe quatuorlineata, and Coronella girondica.
Cort, J.R. & Giner Pablo, G. & Gómez Garcia, D. (2012) -
The present article covers 20 years of field work by the authors. It provides data of 26 species of amphibians and reptiles, located in the southern sector of Catalonia (northeastern Spain), many of them in quadrants UTM 10 x 10, which had not been previously cited.
Cortada, À. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Mendes, J. & Carretero, M.A. (2017) -
We report here a case of spontaneous limb regeneration in a wild Podarcis lilfordi lizard from the Balearic Islands. The animal had lost a hind limb, which regenerated posteriorly into a tail-like appendage. Despite not representing a functional regeneration, the growth of this structure after limb amputation suggests that survival of the individual may have been favored by the less restrictive conditions prevailing in insular environments. Nevertheless, such cases are extremely rare in lizards, with no reported cases over the last 60 years.
Corte, F. della & Angelini, F. & Cavagnuola, A. (1966) -
Corte, F. della & Angelini, F. & Cosenza, L. (1966) -
Corte, F. della & Cosenza, L. (1965) -
Corte, F. della & Galgano, M. & Angelini, F. (1968) -
In addition to light microscopic studies on the hypophysis of the lizard, Lacerta s. siculaRaf., during different periods of the year, the authors of this paper explain the ultrastructure of the adenohypophysial cells of normal sexually active male lizards and of castrated lizards. On the basis of the location and the structural variations after castration several hypophysial cell types can be distinguished: Type 1 (STH) with spheroid granules (about 310 mμ diameter); type 2 with polymorphous glycoprotein granules; type 3 with small round granules (150–270 mμ diameter) and globules of about 700–800 mμ diameter (both gonadotropes). A fourth cell type with small uniform granules (diameter about 100–200 mμ has also been observed; its function is uncertain. A condensation of secretory granules in the Golgi complex and phenomena of cellular degeneration and cytolysis followed by a release of granules into the cellular interstices have been observed. In castrated animals degranulation and signs of an increased activity in the cell types 2 and 3 have been shown. In these animals the cisternae of endoplasmic reticulum become greatly distended.
Corte, F. della & Galgano, M. & Varano, L. (1969) -
In order to study the ultrastructure of the Leydig cells in the lizard Lacerta s. siculaRaf., the AA. examined two groups of animals, namely: January specimens in hibernation and May specimens in the mating period. In the animals of the first group, the Leydig cells were scarce, small and possessed a poorly developed E.R. and small mitochondria usually presenting laminar cristae. In the specimens of the second group the interstitial cells were large and possessed a very well developed smooth E.R. arranged in a system of anastomosing tubules and vesicles; the mitochondria were numerous and large, with prevailingly tubular cristae and often with a discontinuous wall. Lipid droplets and lysosomes were also present. The observation on the ultrastructure of the Leydig cells in May specimens of Lacerta s. siculaRaf`. seems to confirm the opinion that these elements participate in the metabolism of the sexual steroids; in fact they possess ultrastructural features that are typical of steroidogenetic cells.
Cortés, J.A. (1988) -
Cortés, J.E. (1982) -
Cortes, J.E. (1984) -
Corti, C. (1988) -
Corti, C. (1999) -
Corti, C. (2006) -
Corti, C. (2014) -
Corti, C. (2016) -
Corti, C. & Ben Haj, S. & Nouira, S. & Ouni, R. & Rivière, V. & Delaugerre, M.-J. & Lo Cascio, P. (2022) -
Studies on the herpetofauna of Tunisia’s numerous islands and islets began in 2000 thanks to targeted research programs. The data collected were compared and merged with others reported in the literature, thus obtaining an updated and detailed checklist of the Amphibians and Reptiles present on the Tunisian islands.
Corti, C. & Biaggini, M. (2018) -
Corti, C. & Biaggini, M. & Capula, M. (2011) -
Corti, C. & Biaggini, M. & Delaugerre, M. & Lo Cascio, P. (2014) -
The data available on the herpetofauna of the Archipelago della Maddalena are mainly based on investigations carried out during the 1980’s by the Sezione di Zoologia “La Specola” of the Museo di Storia Naturale dell’Università di Firenze. Such records have not been specifically updated successively. Here field data on the composition and distribution of the herpetofauna of the Archipelago are presented, with particular attention to the micro-insular areas for which no bibliographic data were available. Between 2011 and 2012 a total of 51 islands and islets have been visited: new records have been gained for 15 islands and islets already studied in past while on 4 the herpetofauna has been recorded for the first time. The lack of herpetofauna on 9 islets and rocks seemingly never previously studied has been reported too.
Corti, C. & Biaggini, M. & Nulchis, V. & Cogoni, R. & Cossu, I.M. & Frau, S. & Mulargia, M. & Lunghi, E. & Bassu, L. (2022) -
Although distribution databases are a dynamic tool, continuously updated, it is important to take “snapshots” of the species distribution over time to promptly identify potential conservation issues. With this work, we provide an update of the distribution of amphibians and reptiles in Sardinia and satellite islands. Data derive from both direct field observations (carried out since 2005 until July 2022) and literature, accounting for over 7000 records: 1416 records of 11 species of amphibians and 5600 records of 18 species of reptiles. Distribution maps (on 10 × 10 km UTM grid) of 29 species are provided in supplementary materials as well as the updated list of the amphibians and reptiles occurring in the circum-Sardinian islands. Most of the meshes were characterized by the presence of 1-3 amphibian species (73%) and 6-8 or 9-11 reptile species (32% with 6-8 species, 30% with 9-11 species). Species abundance was favoured by environmental heterogeneity, and mostly varied in relation to elevation range and edge density.
Corti, C. & Biaggini, M. & Sillero, N. (2016) -
The theory of island biogeography proposes that the number of species found in an island is determined by immigration and extinction, which depends on the distance to a source of colonists. Species richness does not depend exclusively on area, but also on climate and isolation variables, such as distance to the continent, island age, degree of isolation (distance to nearest island and mainland), the initial biotic composition, ocean currents, human activity, etc. We analysed species- area relationships and structural connectivity of amphibians and reptiles in a group of 51 small islands (Archipelago La Maddalena, Italy) very close to the large island of Sardinia. We tested the relationship of species richness with several environmental factors (area, unique habitats number, topographical variables, distances of each island to Sardinia, to the nearest island, and to the nearest big island) through Generalized Additive Models and connectivity analysis. Each method was performed considering all species, excluding species in ‘transit’ (those disappearing first after habitat change, e.g. Podarcis siculus), including only autochthonous species, including species present on islands smaller than 10000 m2 (A) or between 10001-100000 m2 (B) or larger than 100001 m2 (C). We also excluded, in turn, amphibians, Scincidae, Geckonidae, the four Lacertidae, Colubridae, and one species in turn, in order to understand the importance of variables and connectivity of any taxonomic group. Seventeen species are present in the islands of La Maddalena Archipelago, 3 amphibians and 14 reptiles. Nine islands have no species, 17 host one or two species, and 23 host more than three species (maximum 17). Variables with higher correlations were number of unique habitats, and maximum and SD of altitude. Except for species present in islands of type ABC, all models selected the same variables: SD ruggedness, area, number of unique habitats, and mean and maximum altitude. When excluding Sardinia, highest connectivity corresponded to La Maddalena, followed by Caprera and Spargi.
Corti, C. & Bischoff, W. & Böhme, W. (1999) -
The Mediterranean Sea, in particular along its northern coasts contains may archipelagos, islands, islets and rocks. Also along Spain and the north African and Levant coasts some islands are present. Most of these islands are inhabited by lacertid lizards, 39 species are known at present. Many of the species living on islands are also distributed on the mainland, while others are endemic (Algyroides fitzingeri, Lacerta bedriagae, Podarcis artratus, Podarcis filfolensis, Podarcis gaigae, Podarcis lilfordi, Podarcis milensis, Podarcis pityusensis, Podarcis raffonei, Podarcis tiliguerta, Podarcis waglerianus). There are also species introduced by man like Teira perspicillata onto Menorca. Insular populations are often restricted and due to their isolation status constantly under drought conditions. In the present paper some factors that could affect island populations are discussed. As lizards are good models to study insular ecosystems they deserve particular attention.
Corti, C. & Böhme, E. & Delfino, M. & Masseti, M. (1999) -
The aim of the present study is to synthesise the available data on the occurrence of lacertid liz-ards on Mediterranean islands better to understand how far human influence is involved in the present distributional patterns of insular lacertid lizard fauna. At present, the Mediterranean is-lands are inhabited by several lacertid genera, including endemic species of the genera Algyroides (viz. fitzingeri), »Lacerta« [ Archaeolacerta] (viz. bedriagae) and Podarcis (atratus, filfolensis, gaigae, lil-fordi, milensis, pityusensis, raffonei, tiliguerta, waglerianus). Recently reported data shed new light on the relationships between these endemics and some continental species that have recently colonised the islands. The arrival of the latter might be directly related to the progressive human colonisation of these islands. The arising conservation problems are also considered.
Corti, C. & Bruschi, S. & Spano, G. & Putzu, M. & Luiselli, L. & Lo Cascio, P. & Navone, A. (2008) -
Corti, C. & Capula, M. & Luiselli, L. & Razzetti, E. & Sindaco, R. (2011) -
Corti, C. & Capula, M. & Nascetti, G. (1989) -
Corti, C. & Cecchi, L. & Thévenet, M. & Delaugerre, M. (2022) -
The data presented here come from surveys carried out thanks to a PIM (Initiative PIM – Initiative pour les Petites Îles de Méditerranée) mission on the satellite islands, islets and rocks of Elba and Pianosa islands, aimed at improving knowledge of the terrestrial natural heritage of the Tuscan Archipelago. A list of islands, islets and rocks with resident reptiles is provided.
Corti, C. & Cheylan, M. & Sindaco, R. & Romano, A. (2009) -
Corti, C. & Cheylan, M. & Sindaco, R. & Romano, A. & Haffner, P. (2009) -
Corti, C. & Gravelli, P. & Lanza, B. (1996) -
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. (1999) -
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. (2000) -
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. (2002) -
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. (2004) -
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. (2008) -
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. (2016) -
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. & Biaggini, M. (2006) -
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. & Biaggini, M. & Giovanotti, M. & Santucci, N. & Delaugerre, M.-J. (2022) -
Archaeolacerta bedriagae is a Corso-Sardinian endemism, known only from the Corsican Islet La Folaca, but recently discovered on two other islets (Lavezzi satellite islands). All three populations genetically belong to the sub-Corsican clade. The micro-insular distribution of this lizard is limited to the islands and islets of the Strait of Bonifacio. The absence of the Bedriaga`s rock lizard in the Corsican main islands of Lavezzi and Cavallo still remains unexplained; however, for the latter, habitat alterations and the introduction of alien species could be the cause. The absence of the Bedriaga`s rock lizard from the other Lavezzi islets may have been influenced by the morphology and vegetation cover of these islets.
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. & Razzett,i E. (2006) -
Although it was obvious to us that it would be useful to include a list of the herpetofauna found on the Italian islands, it immediately became clear that this would be no easy task: the information in the literature is often incomplete, inaccurate and difficult to check, and precise data are available only for the circum-Sardinian islands (POGGESI et al., 1996), the circum-Sicilian islands (L ANZA, 1973; CORTI et al., 1998) and the Tuscan Archipelago (HOTZ, 1973; COR- TI et al., 1991; VANNI & NISTRI, 1999, 2000). In order to form as complete a picture as possible, we also consulted numerous works on single islands or groups of islands, e.g. the Handbuch der Rep- tilien und Amphibien Europas. Finally, we had access to a large vol- ume of as yet unpublished data from the Progetto Atlante, including reports for the Ligurian and Apulian islands, gathered by the region- al chapters of the Societas Herpetologica Italica. For the sake of brevity, lacustrian and riverine populations and those of delta bars, beaches and island lakes have been omitted. Apart from the fact that few data are available, these populations are not actually separate from those of adjoining coasts. We do make an important exception to this rule in mentioning the taxon Lacerta muralis borromeica Mertens, 1932, described for the Isola Madre on Lago Maggiore and later declared invalid by the author. The subspecies status of many island populations of lacertids of the Podarcis genus remains open to debate, and is discussed in more detail in the chapter “Checklist of the Italian herpetofauna with tax- onomic remarks”. These populations can present far greater variabil- ity in patterning than continental populations [e.g. Podarcis sicula caporiaccoi (Taddei, 1949) see HOTZ (1973)] or unusual colouring (e.g. melanotic) which, although they make island and archipelago populations easier to identify, are considered by modern taxono- mists to be of doubtful systematic validity. It was decided to include the description of a species or sub- species for an island as a note, with the type locality in square brack- ets, and with the name supplied by the author without commenting on its validity.
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. & Turrisi, G.F. (2008) -
Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. & Vanni, S. & Turrisi, G.F. & Vaccaro, A. (1997) -
Corti, C. & Masseti, M. & Delfino, M. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1999) -
This work deals with a synthesis of data on the late Quaternary occurrence of endemic herpetofauna reported, shed new light on the permanence and extinction of autochthonous species and the arrival of continental ones. Their arrival might be directly related to the progressive advent of human colonisation of the islands, Hence, the question is how is the present insular herpetofauna connected to human intervention? In this review we show the close connection between human occupation of Mediterranean islands and present-day herpetofauna.
Corti, C. & Nistri, A. & Lanza, B. & Vanni, S. (2004) -
Corti, C. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1991) -
Corti, C. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Sindaco, R. & Romano, A. (2009) -
Corti, C. & Sindaco, R. & Paggetti, E. (2011) -
Corti, C. & Sindaco, R. & Romano, A. (2009) -
Corti, C. & Spano, G. (2010) -
Corti, C. & Spano, G. & Putzu, M. & Bassu, L. & Bruschi, S. & Fresi, C. & Navone, A. (2006) -
Costa, J.À. (2022) -
Costa, O.G. (1828) -
Costantini, D. & Bruner, E. & Fanfani, A. & Dell’Omo, G. (2007) -
elective predation can be an important force driving the evolution of organisms. In particular, sex-biased predation is expected to have implications for sexual selection, sex allocation and population dynamics. In this study, we analysed sex differences in the predation of the western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) by the Eurasian kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) during the reproductive season. In addition, we investigated whether the rate of predation differed during the 8-year study period and among the three habitats studied. We collected lizard remains from nest boxes of kestrels. Freshly killed lizards were sexed by visual inspection, whilst the sex of head remains was assigned by analysing the cephalic scale morphology using geometric morphometrics. Our results show that the risk of being predated by a kestrel in our population was overall about 3.55 times higher for males than for females. To our knowledge this is the first study showing a male-biased predation in a lizard species. The selective predation of males was consistent between years over the 8-year study period (1999–2006) and also consistent between the three types of kestrel hunting habitat. Overall predation rates on lizards differed between habitats, depending on the year. We propose that the observed sex-biased predation is mainly due to sex differences in lizard behaviour.
Costantini, D. & Dell’Omo, G. (2010) -
Sex-biased predation is thought to have important implications for sexual selection, sex allocation, and population dynamics (Magnhagen, 1991; Le-Galliard et al., 2005 for an example in lizards). Most studies found that males are subjected to higher predation pressure than females during the reproductive season (Korpimäki, 1985; Lodé et al., 2004; Christe et al., 2006; Costantini et al., 2007). In that period, males are very mobile, emit acoustic signals and exhibit brilliant colourations, which are needed to attract females but may make them more visible to predators. With regard to lizards, a recent study provided the first evidence that males of a lizard species may be preyed on more than females (Costantini et al., 2007). In the present study, we investigated whether there is sex-biased predation on two small lacertid species, the common wall lizard Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) and the Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula (Rafinesque-Schmaltz, 1810), by Eurasian kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) during the reproductive season. We also examined whether (1) the rate of predation differed between species and (2) the rate of predation differed across years or among hunting habitats for each species.
Costantini, D. & Lapresa Alonso, M. & Moazen, M. & Bruner, E. (2010) -
n the last two decades, there has been a great deal of interest in the morphology and anatomy of the lizard skull in an ecological and evolutionary perspective. However, the relationship between variations in many key anatomical features remains largely unknown. Using microtomography and geometric morphometrics, we examined the relationship between bones and scales associated with the parietal foramen in the three lizards species most common in the Italian peninsula: Podarcis muralis, P. sicula, and Lacerta bilineata. The imprints of the scales are clearly recognizable on the outer bone surface, and this may suggest a structural interaction between these elements. The temporal osteoderms are visible in the larger males and in the larger females of L. bilineata, but they are absent in the smaller specimens of L. bilineata and in all Podarcis specimens. Two parallel rows of pterygoid teeth are present in all the specimens of L. bilineata and are absent in the smaller male of L. bilineata and in both Podarcis species. Cheek osteoderms occurred only in the largest specimens of our sample (i.e., large L. bilineata), being possibly related to hyperostotic processes and densitometric thresholds more than to phylogeny. Minor differences may be also associated with the form of the parietal foramen. In absolute terms the parietal foramen tends to be largest in L. bilineata but in relation to skull length the foramen tends to be larger in P. muralis. In this latter species the foramen is also more elongated. In all three species the fronto-parietal suture occupies a similar location relatively to the scale spatial organization. A shared allometric pattern shows that the main vault enlargement can be localised at the areas anterior to the fronto-parietal suture, providing further information on the possible morphogenetic dynamics associated with the interaction between scales and bones around this structure.
Cote, J. (2003) -
Cote, J. & Boudsocq, S. & Clobert, J. (2007) -
Socially acquired information is widespread in the animal kingdom. Many individuals make behavioral decisions based on such social information. In particular, individuals may decide to leave or select their habitat based on social information. Few studies have investigated the role of density-related information, a potential social cue about habitat quality in dispersal. Here, we tested for the possibility that the phenotype of intruder common lizards (Lacerta vivipara) may inadvertently carry information about their natal population density. We found that such information use is likely. The behavior of focal lizard was influenced by the natal population density of the intruder it was interacting with. This suggests that individuals may use the behavior of others to acquire appropriate information about surroundings and to base spatial decisions on this information. Density-related information may then affect individual movement decisions and thus metapopulation dynamics.
Cote, J. & Clobert, J. (2007) -
Animal personalities are common across taxa and have important evolutionary and ecological implications. Such consistent individual differences correlate with important life-history traits such as dispersal. Indeed, some environmental conditions are supposed to determine dispersers with a specific personality. For example, an increased density should promote the departure of individuals with less social tolerance. Therefore, we hypothesized that dispersers from high-density populations should primarily be asocial individuals, whereas dispersers from low-density populations should be social individuals. In the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara), we measured attraction towards the odour of conspecifics on juveniles at birth as a metric of social tolerance. We then released these juveniles into populations of different densities and measured dispersal and settlement behaviours with regard to social tolerance. One year later, we again measured the social tolerance of surviving individuals. The social tolerance is constant across time and strongly reflects the individual`s dispersal and settlement patterns with respect to population density. These results strongly suggest that social personalities exist and influence dispersal decisions. Further studies will help to elucidate the proximate and ultimate determinants of social personalities.
Cote, J. & Clobert, J. (2010) -
Leaving a population without having information about the surrounding areas is highly risky. Candidates for dispersal may reduce these risks by making decisions based on the level of connectivity between patches, e.g., through immigrants. The benefits of information acquisition may vary within a population according to the dispersal cause and the phenotype of the candidate disperser. For instance, kin-based dispersers should be prepared to accept higher dispersal cost than individuals leaving for competition with congeners, and individuals of better condition should better deal with the costs of dispersing. We investigated whether the use of information obtained from immigrants depended on the reason for dispersal and the phenotype of individuals in common lizards (Lacerta vivipara). Dispersal decisions with respect to connection status depended on the cause of dispersal and on body mass. When intraspecific competition was the driving force behind dispersal, the information carried by immigrants allowed candidate dispersers to decrease uncertainty about the success of dispersal. Therefore, larger individuals dispersed when connectivity was low, whereas smaller individuals dispersed when connectivity was high. When kin competition dominated, dispersers did not adjust their dispersal decisions on the basis of information about the existence of surrounding populations, and larger individuals dispersed whatever the connectivity. These results provide support for the hypothesis that kin competition is one of the factors driving colonization.
Cote, J. & Clobert, J. (2012) -
Cote, J. & Clobert, J. & Fitze, P.S. (2007) -
Colonization is the crucial process underlying range expansions, biological invasions, and metapopulation dynamics. Which individuals leave their natal population to colonize empty habitats is a crucial question and is presently unresolved. Dispersal is the first step in colonization. However, not all dispersing individuals are necessarily good colonizers. Indeed, in some species, the phenotype of dispersers differs depending on the selective pressures that induce dispersal. In particular, kin-based interactions, a factor driving social evolution, should induce different social response profiles in nondispersing and dispersing individuals. Kin competition (defined here as between the mother and offspring) has been proven to produce dispersers with a particular phenotype that may enhance their colonizing ability. By using the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara), we conducted a multipopulation experiment to study the effect of kin competition on dispersal and colonization success. We manipulated mother–offspring interactions, which are the most important component of kin competition in the studied species, at the family and population levels and measured the consequences on colonization success. We demonstrate that mother–offspring competition at the population level significantly influences colonization success. Increased competition at the population level enhanced the colonization rate of the largest juveniles as well as the growth and survival of the colonizers. Based on these results, we calculated that kin-induced colonization halves the extinction probability of a newly initiated population. Because interactions between relatives are likely to affect the ability of a species to track habitat modifications, kin-based dispersal should be considered in the study of invasion dynamics and metapopulation functioning.
Cote, J. & Clobert, J. & Meylan, S. & Fitze, P.S. (2006) -
Corticosterone is an important hormone of the stress response that regulates physiological processes and modifies animal behavior. While it positively acts on locomotor activity, it may negatively affect reproduction and social activity. This suggests that corticosterone may promote behaviors that increase survival at the cost of reproduction. In this study, we experimentally investigate the link between corticosterone levels and survival in adult common lizards (Lacerta vivipara) by comparing corticosterone-treated with placebo-treated lizards. We experimentally show that corticosterone enhances energy expenditure, daily activity, food intake, and it modifies the behavioral time budget. Enhanced appetite of corticosterone-treated individuals compensated for increased energy expenditure and corticosteronetreated males showed increased survival. This suggests that corticosterone may promote behaviors that reduce stress and it shows that corticosterone per se does not reduce but directly or indirectly increases longer-term survival. This suggests that the production of corticosterone as a response to a stressor may be an adaptive mechanism that even controls survival.
Cote, J. & Clobert, J. & Poloni, L.M. & Maussy, C. & Meylan, S. (2010) -
Stressful events typically induce glucocorticoid production that suppresses unnecessary physiological and behavioural functions. The glucocorticoid production also temporally activates alternative behavioural and physiological pathways. These responses are generally adaptive changes to avoid the negative effects of stressors. However, under low food availability, these behavioural and physiological modifications might lead to energetic costs. We therefore predict that these responses should not be activated when there are energetic constraints (e.g., low food availability). We experimentally tested whether food deprivation modifies corticosterone-induced behavioural and physiological responses in captive male common lizards. We measured corticosterone-induced responses in terms of body mass, metabolic rate, activity level and basking behaviour. We found that corticosterone-induced various behavioural and physiological responses which were dependent on food availability. Well-fed lizards treated with corticosterone were active earlier, and increased their basking behaviour. These behavioural modifications did not occur in food-deprived lizards. This inactivation of stress-related behavioural changes probably allows the lizard to save energy.
Cote, J. & Galliard, J.-F. le & Rossi, J.-M. & Fitze, P.S. (2008) -
Colouration may either reflect a discrete polymorphism potentially related to life-history strategies, a continuous signal related to individual quality or a combination of both. Recently, Vercken et al. [J. Evol. Biol. (2007) 221] proposed three discrete ventral colour morphs in female common lizards, Lacerta vivipara, and suggested that they reflect alternative reproductive strategies. Here, we provide a quantitative assessment of the phenotypic distribution and determinants of the proposed colour polymorphism. Based on reflectance spectra, we found no evidence for three distinct visual colour classes, but observed continuous variation in colour from pale yellow to orange. Based on a 2-year experiment, we also provide evidence for reversible colour plasticity in response to a manipulation of the adult population sex ratio; yet, a significant portion of the colour variation was invariant throughout an adult female’s life. Our results are thus in agreement with continuous colour variation in adults determined by environmental factors and potentially also by genetic factors.
Cote, J. & J. Clobert (2007) -
´Should I stay or should I go?`is a fundamental question facing any candidate foremigration, as emigrating without outside information has major costs. Most studies onthis topic have concentrated on risk-reducing strategies (e.g. exploration) developed afterleaving the natal habitat. The idea that information might be acquired before leaving hasnot been investigated. Immigrants carrying information about their origins could providesuch information to potential emigrants in their initial habitat. We manipulated thedensity of common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) populations, to investigate whetherimmigrants originating from these populations transmitted such information to thepopulation they joined. Emigration of the residents of this new population clearlydepended on the origin of the immigrant. Immigrants are therefore a source ofinformation, in this case about surrounding population densities, and may have a majoreffect on dispersal and species persistence in a fragmented habitat.
Cote, J. & Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. & Voituron, Y. (2010) -
Environmental factors including stressors, health status and social context significantly affect carotenoid-based coloration. For instance, stressors may induce the diversion of carotenoids from pigmentation pathways, potentially explaining why stressed animals often exhibit reduced coloration. However, we recently showed that high blood corticosterone concentrations, which are part of the physiological stress response, are associated with increased redness of the belly in the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara). This result clearly contrasts with the findings of many studies of carotenoid-based coloration because corticosterone is believed to increase oxidative stress. Here, we examined whether these positive effects are influenced by differences in food availability. We tested the effect of high corticosterone levels on carotenoid-based coloration, antioxidant enzyme activity and oxidative damage in common lizards subject to low and high food availability. Food restriction abolished the carotenoid-based color enhancement when corticosterone concentrations in animals were high. We discuss how carotenoid-based color can honestly signal individual quality in this species and how the increased redness induced by corticosterone could be a terminal investment in an environment where long-term survival prospects are poor but not when immediate survival is endangered.
Cotto, O. & Massot, M. & Ronce, O. & Clobert, J. (2015) -
Dispersal syndromes describe the patterns of covariation of morphological, behavioural, and life-history traits associated with dispersal. Studying dispersal syndromes is critical to understanding the demographic and genetic consequences of movements. Among studies describing the association of life- history traits with dispersal, there is anecdotal evidence suggesting that dispersal syndromes can vary with age. Recent theory also suggests that dispersive and philopatric individuals might have different age-specific reproductive efforts. In a wild population of the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), we investigated whether dispersive and philopatric individuals have different age-specific reproductive effort, survival, offspring body condition, and offspring sex ratio. Consistent with theoretical predictions, we found that young dispersive females have a higher reproductive effort than young philopatric females. Our results also suggest that the early high investment in reproduction of dispersive females trades-off with an earlier onset of senescence than in philopatric females. We further found that young dispersive females produce smaller offspring in lower body condition than do young philopatric females. Overall, our results provide empirical evidence that dispersive and philopatric individuals have different age-specific life-history traits.
Couasne, J.-P. (2011) -
Courtens, J.L. & Depeiges, A. (1985) -
To the common aspects of spermiogenesis in Reptilia, several new organelles are described in the lizard. One or two nuclear pouches, formed by the invagination of the nuclear envelope, contain a substance similar to that of the perinuclear substance. They are formed near the acrosome and follow an helical pathway at the surface of the nucleus. The pouches could be driven by a nuclear ribbon made of six to seven microtubules engaged in the mouth of each pouch. The perinuclear substance, transported by the pouches, is deposited near the posterior part of the nucleus. The evolution of the nuclear pores, and the attachment of the chromatin to the nuclear envelope suggest that the chromatin is twisted inside the nucleus, following the displacement of the nuclear pouches. Adjacent pouches are separated by a lamellar plate, possibly originating from a modified mitochondrion. Untwisting of the nucleus and chromatin is evident at the time the manchette is present. The chromatin fibers become coarser and are progressively aligned parallel to the nuclear axis. The midpiece of the flagellum is very short; it wears 15 mitochondria disposed into three crowns. The ribs of the fibrous sheet are synthesized from the posterior part of the flagellum, anteriorly. A tegosomial sheet is described. It is composed of lipidic droplets that are injected between the two nuclear membranes, prior to the spermiation. A classification of the steps of spermiogenesis is proposed.
Courty, Y. (1991) -
The hormonal requirements for the regulation of Lv132 mRNA coding for two proteins secreted by the principal cells of the lizard epididymis were examined by organotypic culture experiments. Testosterone, R1881 and corticosterone induced accumulation of Lv132 mRNA in explants from lizards castrated immediately after differentiation of the principal cells. The induction by testosterone was inhibited by the addition of cyproterone acetate. Progesterone and oestradiol alone or in presence of testosterone were ineffective. Unlike the induction by testosterone, the effect of corticosterone did not require binding on the androgen receptor as shown by competition binding studies. Corticosterone failed to induce gene expression in organs containing only reserve cells in their epithelium at the onset of the culture. However, corticosterone plus testosterone had a synergistic effect. These data suggest that testosterone promotes the differentiation of principal cells from reserve cells during the culture time and that a primary action of testosterone is necessary to confer corticosterone responsiveness on this tissue. Furthermore, the primary effects of testosterone could be memorized by the tissue because the corticosterone responsiveness persists after castration.
Courty, Y. & Dufaure, J.P. (1979) -
estosterone concentration in the plasma and testis were measured by radioimmunoassay in 90 males of viviparous lizards. Determinations were performed at twice monthly intervals from March to October during two annual cycles. Plasma level of testosterone reached a peak of 445 ng/ml in the mating season, then fell abruptly to the value of 2 ng/ml in July, rose in September, then remained at a similar level of approximately 30–40 ng/ml before and after hibernation. Testosterone levels in the testis followed the plasma values except in June when the testicular levels were high although the plasma concentrations were low. This period (June) is characterized by atrophy of the epididymis (secondary sexual character) and of the seminiferous tubules and precedes the renewal of spermatogenesis (early testicular recrudescence). The plasma values of testosterone and their range of variations in this species are the highest presently known in vertebrates.
Courty, Y. & Morel, F. & Dufaure, J.P. (1987) -
During the reproductive period (spring) under the control of testosterone the epididymis of the viviparous lizard secretes a group of major proteins with an approximate Mr of 19,000 named L protein(s). These proteins are recognized by a specific immunoserum and bind to the heads of spermatozoa. During spring, translation in reticulocyte lysate of RNA from secreting epididymis (stage 6) produced 5 immunoprecipitable bands with Mr values from 21,500 to 25,000. Such synthesis is undetectable during sexual rest in summer (stage 1). The 5 bands disappear when translation is performed in the presence of dog pancreas microsomes although a new band of Mr 19 000 becomes prominent. This suggests that synthesis of L protein involves two steps, i.e. synthesis of precursors (L preproteins) followed by a maturation process. At least 11 translation products (including L-preproteins) are involved in annual variations that follow the differentiation of the epididymal epithelial cells and their androgen dependency was studied by castration and in-vitro stimulation by testosterone. In these conditions, testosterone is able to control accumulation of RNA corresponding to L preproteins and to a translation product of Mr 29 000.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.-D. & Bogdan, H.-V. & Toader, P.C. & Condure, N. (2008) -
In the researched area, we identified a total of 16 species for the herpetofauna. Among these, 11 belong to the amphibians (Triturus vulgaris, Triturus cristatus, Triturus dobrogicus, Bombina bombina, Pelobates fuscus, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Hyla arborea, Rana ridibunda, Rana lessonae, Rana dalmatina) and 5 to the reptiles (Emys orbicularis, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Podarcis taurica, Natrix natrix). Aside these 16 species, we also identified populations of Rana kl. esculenta, a hybrid form between Rana ridibunda and Rana lessonae.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.-D. & Dinca, I. & Dimancea, N. (2009) -
In the Moca stream basin from Valea lui Mihai town we identified 9 amphibian species (Lissotriton (Triturus) vulgaris, Triturus dobrogicus, Bombina bombina, Pelobates fuscus, Hyla arborea, Epidalea (Bufo) viridis, Pelophylax (Rana) ridibundus, Rana dalmatina, Rana arvalis), 5 reptile species (Emys orbicularis, Lacerta agilis, Zootoca vivipara, Podarcis taurica, Natrix natrix) and populations of Pelophylax (Rana) kl. esculentus). The herpetofauna of the region is characteristic to the northwestern plain areas from Romania, including beside typical plain species, glacial relicts connected to a colder and moister climate together with postglacial immigrants specific to the warmer and dryer areas. The herpetofauna diversity is determined by the habitat diversity, in the area being present wide marshes together with sand dunes. In addition, endangered species, which are protected at a national and European level, are present in the area. The most distinct herpetofauna lies in the marsh upstream of the town, the sector situated in the locality being heavily affected by man. The authors recommend the conservation of the marshes both upstream and downstream of the town, and the limitation of any interventions upon the stream strictly to the town sector, which is presently degraded.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.-D. & Sas, I. & Cicort-Lucaciu, A. & Achim, A. & Andritcu, A. (2005) -
We studied the composition and the geographic spreading of the herpethofauna from Tasnad Hills, between the years 2000 and 2003. In this region, we have identified 12 Amphibian species (Triturus vulgaris, Triturus cristatus, Triturus dobrogicus, Bombina bombina, Bombina variegata, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Hyla arborea, Pelobates fuscus, Rana ridibunda, Rana dalmatina and Rana arvalis), 8 Reptile species (Emys orbicularis, Lacerta viridis, Lacerta agilis, Zootoca vivipara, Anguis fragilis, Natrix natrix, Coronella austriaca, Vipera berus) and 3 species of hybrids between some amphibian species (Triturus cristatus X Triturus dobrogicus, , Bombina bombina X Bombina variegata and Rana Kl. esculenta). We also found numerous Zootoca vivipara populations in the swamps from the plain region, the species being well represented at altitudes of about 150 m. What is also important to mention is the fact that we found Triturus dobrogicus, hybrids between this species and Triturus cristatus, or the first ever discovery of Vipera berus in Tasnad Hills, at about 200 m altitude.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.-D. & Sas, I. & Cicort-Lucaciu, A. & Kovács, É.-H. (2003) -
Covaciu-Marcov, S.D. & Bogdan, H.V. & Ferenti, S. (2006) -
Podarcis muralis is present on the railroad embankments and bridges from the train stations in some areas of western Romania. Sometimes these populations are in close vicinity to natural habitats, whilst at other times may be several km away. In the second case, they are probably brought accidentally, along with the rail stones. It is likely that the species, at the northern limit of its distribution, is advantaged in some way by the railroads, which offer numerous shelters and the possibility of much quicker thermal adjustment.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.D. & Cicort-Lucaciu, A.-S. & Sas, I. & Filimon, A. (2009) -
In the studied region we encountered 7 species of amphibian (Triturus dobrogicus, Triturus vulgaris, Bombina bombina, Pelobates fuscus, Pelobates syriacus, Epidalea (Bufo) viridis, Pelophylax (Rana) ridibundus) and 4 species of reptiles (Emys orbicularis, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Natrix natrix). The herpetofauna of the studied region is one typical for the plain areas from Romania. Pelobates syriacus was recorded for the first time in Ialomiţa County.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.D. & Cicort-Lucaciu, A.S. & Bogdan, H.V. & Kovacs, E.H. & Maghiar, C. (2008) -
In the studied area we encountered 14 species of amphibians (Salamandra salamandra, Triturus vulgaris, Triturus cristatus, Triturus dobrogicus, Bombina bombina, Bombina variegata, Pelobates fuscus, Hyla arborea, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Rana ridibunda, Rana lessonae, Rana dalmatina, Rana arvalis) and 9 species of reptiles (Emys orbicularis, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Zootoca vivipara, Anguis fragilis, Natrix natrix, Coronella austriaca, Elaphe longissima and Vipera berus). Hybrids between Triturus cristatus and Triturus dobrogicus, Bombina bombina and Bombina variegata and Rana kl. esculenta are also present in this region. The herpetofauna of this reservation from the inferior course of the Tur River stands out through the glacier relicts that live here, in the woody swamps from the plains (R. arvalis, Z. vivipara and V. berus). Population of Salamandra salamandra and Bombina variegata can be found here at altitudes of no more than 140 m. In this reservation, all the three forms of the Rana green complex that live in Romania are present. The most important sectors of the reservation, from what the herpetofauna is concerned, are the afforested areas. These shelter most of the species and the biggest population of the protected species. The results of our study show the necessity to include into the reservation the forests from Livada.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.D. & Cicort-Lucaciu, A.S. & Ferenti, S. & Anamaria, D. (2008) -
In the North-Western part of Romania (the Western Plains) we have identified Zootoca vivipara populations in 78 localities, at altitudes between 89 and 198 m. In this area, the distribution of the viviparous lizard is restricted to regions where the yearly average temperature is lower than 10 0C. In the Western Plains, the Zootoca vivipara populations are located in very humid habitats. They inhabit both forested and cleared wetlands, occupying marshes or the areas around plashes. In the Northern part of the Western Plains, the Zootoca vivipara populations from the plain are separated from the ones from the Oaş Mountains, by not more than 30 km.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.D. & Cicort-Lucaciu, A.S. & Sas,I. & Mosu, A.G. & Toth, B. (2008) -
In western Maramures county we encountered 13 species of amphibians (Salamandra salamandra, Triturus montandoni, Triturus cristatus, Triturus vulgaris, Bombina bombina, Bombina variegata, Pelobates fuscus, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis Hyla arborea, Rana ridibunda, Rana dalmatina, Rana temporaria), 7 species of reptile (Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Zootoca vivipara, Anguis fragilis, Elaphe longissima, Coronella austriaca, Natrix, natrix), as well as hybrids between Bombina bombina and Bombina variegata and also populations of Rana esculenta. The hybrids between the 2 species of Bombina are present at the same altitude as in the rest of western Romania in general. In this region are present plain species as well as species prone to higher areas. The Carpathian newt descends to a more reduced altitude then in general in Romania, but comparable to those at which it was noticed in the Oas region.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.D. & Cicort-Lucasiu, A.S. & Gaceu, O. & Sas, I. & Ferenti, S. & Bogdan, H. (2009) -
The south-western part of Mehedinţi County comprises many herpetofauna species, compared to most regions in Romania. This is how we managed to encounter 14 amphibian species (Salamandra salamandra, Lissotriton vulgaris, Triturus cristatus, Triturus dobrogicus, Bombina bombina, Bombina variegata, Pelobates fuscus, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Hyla arborea, Pelophylax ridibundus, Pelophylax lessonae, Rana dalmatina, Rana temporaria) plus Pelophylax kl. esculentus and 15 reptile species (Emys orbicularis, Testudo hermanni, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis taurica, Darevskia praticola, Anguis fragilis, Zamenis longissimus, Dolichophis caspius, Coronella austriaca, Natrix natrix, Natrix tessellata, Vipera ammodytes). Salamandra salamandra, Bombina variegata and Rana temporaria were identified at very low altitudes, lower than any other indication from Romania up to present. This is explained by the fact that mountain valleys, bearing here a typical aspect, reach all the way to the Danube, carrying with them the occurring species. In Blahnita Plain, Darevskia praticola appears in cleared areas, being present in the vegetation girdles bordering the canals found between agricultural fields.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.D. & Cicort-Lucasiu, A.S. & Sas, I. & Bogdan, H. & Pusta, C. (2003) -
Covaciu-Marcov, S.D. & Ghira, I. & Cicort-Lucaciu, A.-St. & Sas, I. & Strugariu, A. & Bogdan H.V. (2006) -
In Dobrudja we encountered 10 species of amphibians (Triturus dobrogicus, Bombina bombina, Hyla arborea, Pelobates fuscus, Pelobates syriacus, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Rana dalmatina, Rana ridibunda, Rana lessonae), 16 species of reptiles (Emys orbicularis, Testudo graeca, Ablepharus kitaibelli, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Lacerta trilineata, Podarcis taurica, Podarcis muralis, Eremias arguta, Coronella austriaca, Zamensis longissimus, Elaphe quatuorlineata, Dolichophis caspius, Natrix natrix, Natrix tessellata, Vipera ammodytes) and also Rana kl. esculenta populations. Some species of amphibians (Pelobates fuscus, Pelobates syriacus) that were only previously known inform the lower regions of the Danube’s meadow and in the vicinity of the Black Sea, were recorded in the high areas of northern Dobrudja. Also here, all three forms of the green frogs’ complex documented for Romania have been encountered, but Rana lessonae and Rana esculenta are very rare, being found only in the north. The central sectors of Dobrudja are severely impacted by human activities, almost completely cleared as a result of agriculture and showed very low number of herpetofauna species as being present. The most important areas for the herpetofauna are the northern and south-western regions.
Covaciu-Marcov, S.D. & Popovici, P.V. & Cicort-Lucaciu, A.S. & Kovács, I.S. & Cupsa, D. & Ferenti, S. (2020) -
Herpetofauna is of interest in protected areas because of the large number of protected species. We studied the herpetofauna of Cozia National Park (CNP) between 2016 and 2018. CNP is situated in the central part of the Southern Romanian Carpathians. We recorded 10 species of amphibian (Salamandra salamandra, Triturus cristatus, Lissotriton vulgaris, Bombina variegata, Hyla arborea, Bufo bufo, Bufotes viridis, Pelophylax ridibundus, Rana dalmatina and R. temporaria), and 11 reptile species (Lacerta agilis, L. viridis, Podarcis muralis, Darevskia praticola, Zootoca vivipara, Anguis colchica, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Coronella austriaca, Zamenis longissimus and Vipera ammodytes). Reptiles dominate in number of species, number of individuals and distribution records. CNP is situated at the northern limit of the distribution range of some of these reptiles, notably D. praticola and V. ammodytes. Mountain species associated with a colder, moist climate are very rare or even absent. Zootoca vivipara is restricted to the highest areas of Mount Cozia, above 1 350 m. Although mountain species are well represented in other Carpathian regions, the warmer, drier climate of CNP and its surroundings has limited their distribution in the area, pushing Z. vivipara to higher and higher altitudes. Lacerta agilis is syntopic with all the other lizard species. In some areas, as many as four lizard species cohabitate. The distribution of the herpetofauna in CNP has been negatively influenced by past human activity. The dams on the River Olt have favoured species related to large, stagnant bodies of water, in a region where such habitats were naturally missing. In addition, massive deforestation has decreased the abundance of herpetofauna in many areas of CNP.
Coward, T.A. (1901) -
Cowlishaw, G. & Avery, R.A. (1991) -
Cox, N. & Chanson, J. & Stuart, S. (2006) -
Cox, N.A. & Mallon, D. & Bowles, P. & Els, J. & Togndelli, M.F. (2012) -
Cox, N.A. & Temple, H.J. (2009) -
Cox, S.C. & Carranza, S. & Brown, R.P. (2010) -
The Canary Islands have become a model region for evolutionary studies. We obtained 1.8 Kbp of mtDNA sequence from all known island forms of the endemic lizard genus Gallotia and from its sister taxon Psammodromus in order to reanalyze phylogenetic relationships within the archipelago, estimate lineage divergence times, and reconstruct the colonization history of this group. Well-supported phylogenies were obtained using maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference. Previous studies have been unable to establish the branching pattern at the base of the tree. We found evidence that G. stehlini (Gran Canaria) originated from the most basal Gallotia node and G. atlantica from the subsequent node. Divergence times were estimated under a global clock using Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods implemented by three different programs: BEAST, MCMCTREE, MULTIDIVTIME. Node constraints were derived from subaerial island appearance data and were incorporated into the analyses as soft or hard maximal bounds. Posterior node ages differed slightly between programs, possibly due to different priors on divergence times. The most eastern Canary Islands first emerged just over 20 mya and their colonization appears to have taken place relatively quickly, around 17–20 mya. The subsequent node is consistent with cladogenesis due to colonization of Gran Canaria from the eastern islands about 11–13 mya. The western islands appear to have been colonized by a dispersal event from Lanzarote/Fuerteventura in the east to either La Gomera or one of the ancient edifices that subsequently formed Tenerife in the west, about 9–10 mya. Within the western islands, the most recent node that is ancestral to both the G. intermedia/G. gomerana/G. simonyi and the G. galloti/G. caesaris clades is dated at about 5–6 mya. Subsequent dispersal events between ancient Tenerife islands and La Gomera are dated at around 3 mya in both clades, although the direction of dispersal cannot be determined. Finally, we show that G. galloti is likely to have colonized La Palma more than 0.5 Ma after emergence of the island 1.77 mya, while G. caesaris from the same clade may have colonized El Hierro very soon after it emerged 1.12 mya. There are tentative indications that the large-bodied endangered G. simonyi colonized El Hierro around the same time or even later than the smaller-bodied G. caesaris. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of Bayesian dating of a phylogeny in helping reconstruct the historical pattern of dispersal across an oceanic archipelago.
Cox, S.C. & Carranze, S. & Brown, R.P. (2010) -
Cragg, P.A. (1975) -
Cragg, P.A. (1978) -
1. Ventilation was measured with pneumotachographs causing pressures <2mm H2O. 2. Respiratory movements were triphasic (E1-I-E2-pause) but tidal volumes were (a) diphasic because the E2 was against a closed glottis or (b) occasionally triphasic—found in excited (or anaesthetized) lizards in which glottal closure was mistimed (or never occurred) and in most lizards subjected to pressures of > 1 mm Hg from a plethysmograph. 3. Gular pulsations (contraction-distension-pause) always occurred in sequence with respiration and sometimes in the pause. 4. Bucco-pharyngeal pumps causing lung ventilation were abnormal. 5. In 30g L. viridis resting VT = 0.11 ml and f = 30 min−1. Maximum activity caused V́E to increase 24-fold due mainly to VT (12-fold).
Cremers, J. (1929) -
Crespo, E.G. (1972) -
Crespo, E.G. (1973) -
Dans ce (ravail nous faisons une synthese de quelques données que nous avons obtenu sur la distribution et I`écologie de I`herpétofaune portugaise. Naus faisons aussi référence à la fréquence de capture de ces animaux pendan! les différents mois de I`année et à leur occurrence dans les principales montagnes du pays.
Crespo, E.G. & Cei, J.M. (1975) -
Creuwels, J. (2014) -
Crisp, M. & Cook, L.M. & Hereward, F.V. (1979) -
Lacerta dugesii, the small lizard of the Madeiran archipelago, exhibits a variety of dorsal colors ranging from green to shades of brown or black, with or without lateral stripes. The preponderant colors in the lizard population vary according to the locality. Dorsal colors could theoretically have a cryptic or thermal function. Our experiments on the rate of warming and cooling of differently colored lizards under field conditions suggest that color is unimportant for heat balance in this species. Lizard size probably has a small effect, but the most important factor is insolation which is most easily altered by moving into sunshine or shade. The temperatures attained by acrylic models painted nonglossy black or reflective silver and placed in the sun or shade support these conclusions. Raptorial birds, gulls and feral cats are common in Madeira and are likely to be visual hunters of lizards. Selective predation is a more attractive hypothesis to explain the variation than is our thermal hypothesis.
Crnobrnja Isailovic, J. & Ajtic, R. & Vogrin, M. (2009) -
Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2018) -
Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Aleksic, I. (2004) -
Variation in a few reproductive traits (i.e. clutch size, female body mass after capture and after parturition and hatchling body mass and lenght) of Lacerta vivipara has been studied in two populations from Serbia (Stara Mountain -Southeastern Serbia and Šara Mountain -Southernmost Serbia). Mean clutch size was reported as 6.9 and 5.9 for samples from Stara Mt. and Šara Mt., respectively. Absence of difference in mothers` SVL among samples indicates similar age structure, as SVL is strongly correlated with age. Mean hatchling body mass per female varied significantly within populations. Significant between-sample differences were detected for mean effective relative clutch masses. Absence of a trade-off between clutch size and the average mass of offspring in analyzed populations from Serbia could mean that there is a strategy of producing a clutch size characterized by good body condition, but this strategy can be varied in order to be able to subsequently reduce the size of the brood in poor years.
Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Bowles, P. (2011) -
Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Corovic, J. & Cosic, N. (2020) -
Two previously known northernmost localities of the Sharp-snouted rock lizard in Montenegro were the entrance of the Komarnica Canyon (Nevidio), and the middle part of the Tara River Canyon (village Tepca). It was presumed that Komarnica and Piva canyons were once corridors for the spreading of this species from the Eastern Adriatic sub-Mediterranean area to the Tara River Canyon in the north. However, it had not been hitherto known if there were any other relict populations in the area. In the autumn of 2019 a localized population of D. oxycephala was discovered in the middle part of the Komarnica Canyon.
Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Dinov, J. & Isailovic, O. & Randelovic, V. (2015) -
Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Dzukic, G. (1997) -
Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Džukić, G. & Aleksic, I. & Vujicic, L. & Avramov, S. (1995) -
Region of Skadar Lake (Montenegro) presents part of the southern border of species range for two lacertid lizards: Podarcis muralis (Common Wall Lizard) and Lacerta oxycephala (Sharp-snouted Rock Lizard). Beside coastal area, they also inhabit 27 small islands which form south-western Skadar Lake archipelago. Insular populations seem to be allopatric on all islands except one. In the scope of complex investigations we have performed an strach-gel electrophoretic study on both species. A total of 24 gene loci was analyzed for 11 populations of P. muralis and for 8 populations of L. oxycephala. These data were used to estimate the genetic variability level within populations as well as degree of genetic differentiation among populations. The extent of population genetic structuring in both species is discussed, taking into consideration the possible influence of isolation effects.
Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Polovic, L. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Cadenovic, N. & Cubric, T. & Haxhiu, I. (2018) -
The basin of Lake Skadar with its drainage area represents one of the Balkan Peninsula’s hotspots regarding amphibian and reptile fauna. The value of the batracho- and herpetofauna of the Lake Skadar region is reflected in a rich and diverse composition of species. This is undoubtedly the result of the basin’s specific geographic position and complex geological history. Recent studies revealed that Lake Skadar’s watershed is inhabited by 15 amphibian and 36 reptile species. Among these, one amphibian (Pelophylax shqipericus – EN) and two reptile species (Dinarolacerta mosorensis and Vipera ursinii, both VU) are considered to be globally threatened according to IUCN criteria. An additional three reptile species (Emys orbicularis, Testudo hermanni, and Elaphe quatuorlineata) could become threatened in the future. As an attractive tourist area, a significant part of the Lake Skadar region could be impacted by fast and intense anthropogenic changes. Therefore, preserving the network of suitable habitats, maintaining continuous monitoring, and investing in additional research are essential for maintaining this rich local amphibian and reptile diversity.
Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Vogrin, M. & Corti, C. & Mellado, V.P. & Sá Sousa, P. & Chedylan, M. & Pleguezuelos, J. & Sindaco, R. & Romano, A. & Avci, A. (2009) -
Crnobrnja, J. & Aleksic, I. & Bejakovic, D. (2005) -
We examined degree of between-sides difference in number of femoral pores (fluctuating asymmetry, FA) in Podarcis muralis populations, distributed on islands and in coastal area of Lake Skadar (Southern Montenegro). The aim of this study was to test sensitivity of fluctuating asymmetry of chosen trait to isolation effect in the absence of anthropogenic impacts. The results indicate that FA in the number of femoral pores do not vary significantly between insular populations of P. muralis. Generally, there is negative but non-significant correlation between island size and FA level. Also, overdominance hypothesis of enhanced developmental homeostasis at higher levels of heterozygosity was not confirmed in this study. The results support earlier conclusions obtained from electrophoretic studies, that analyzed insular populations from Lake Skadar archipelago still do not suffer deleterious effects as a result of isolation.
Crnobrnja, J. & Bejakovic, D. & Džukić, G. & Kalezic, M.L. & Tucic, N. (1991) -
Crnobrnja, J. & Bejakovic, D. & Tucic, N. (1993) -
Crnobrnja, J. & Džukić, G. & Aleksic, I. & Vujicic, L. & Avramov, S. (1994) -
Crochet, P.-A. (2015) -
The Psammodromus hispanicus species group has been recently shown to include three lineages that differ in morphology (San-Jose et al. 2012), have largely parapatric range but exhibit little evidence of historical gene flow (Fitze et al. 2011), leading to the recognition of these three lineages as distinct species (Fitze et al. 2012). The eastern species can be unambiguously associated with the nomen Lacerta edwarsiana Dugès 1829, as the detailed information in Dugès (1829) leaves no doubt that he describes as Lacerta edwarsiana the local member of the P. hispanicus complex, and the type locality is the `bas Languedoc`, an area of France equivalent to the lowland parts of the current Languedoc region where the only member of the complex is the eastern lineage. The types of Psammodromus edwarsianus have not been traced as far as I am aware, but given the lack of uncertainty regarding allocation of this nomen to the eastern lineage of the P. hispanicus complex this has no nomenclatural consequence. Two nomenclatural issues remain in this species group however: the aim of this note is to solve them.
Crochet, P.-A. & Chaline, O. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Debain, C. & Cheylana, M. (2004) -
Crochet, P.-A. & Geniez, P. (2000) -
Podarcis hispanica est signalé pour la première fois dans les départements du Tarn et de la Haute- aronne. Sur la base des données récoltées par les auteurs ou transmises par d`autres observateurs, les limites de la répartition connue de l`espèce dans les départements de l`Ariège, de l`Aude et des Pyrénées- Orientales sont aussi présentées.
Crochet, P.-A. & Geniez, P. & Ineich, I. (2003) -
The taxonomy of the fringe-toed lizards of the Acanthodactylus scutellatus group has long been unstable and no consensus exists on the systematic status of its various forms. A multivariate analysis of morphological characters, performed on over 1000 specimens from most of the African range of this group, allowed us to clarify the specific allocation of most of the Saharan populations included in this species group. Based on comparisons of morphology between allopatric and sympatric populations of this complex, we propose the recognition of six biological species. Our results confirm the specific status of Acanthodactylus aureus , A. dumerili , A. scutellatus, A. longipes and the recently described A. taghitensis . In addition, we re-validate A. senegalensis (occurring from Mauritania and Mali south to Senegal), which has been treated as a synonym of A. dumerili by previous authors. Acanthodactylus longipes is reported for the first time from coastal Mauritania, and A. taghitensis (previously known only from a very small region in Algeria) is reported from continental Mauritania. The systematic section of this paper includes a full list of examined material, diagnosis and known distribution of each species, in addition to some information on geographical variation and ecology. A key for specific identification is provided as an appendix.
Crochet, P.-A. & Leblois, R. & Renoult, J.P. (2015) -
Crochet, P.A. & Lymberakis, P. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. & Sadek, R. & Werner, Y.L. & Tok, V. & Ugurtas, I.H. & Sevinc, M. & Kaska, Y. & Kumlutas, Y. & Kaya, U. & Avci, A. & Uzum, N. & Yeniyurt, C. & Akarsu, F. (2009) -
Crochet, P.A. & Rufray, V. & Viglione, J. & Geniez, P. (1996) -
Crochet, P.A. & Sweet, S.S. & Mateo, J.A. (2004) -
Crovetto, F. & Salvidio, S. (2013) -
The dietary habits of a population of the sand lizard Lacerta agilis were studied in the Alpine valley Stura di Demonte, Northwestern Italy. The faecal contents of 33 adults (16 females and 17 males) and 8 juveniles were analysed. There were negligible sexual differences in terms of trophic diversity and of the overall diet based on taxonomic prey categories. Juveniles had a lower prey diversity value in comparison with females but not with males. There was a positive relationship between the total number of prey items found in individual faecal contents and lizard body size, and this result may explain the more diverse diet of adults in comparison to juveniles. When the adult trophic strategy was analysed by means of the relativized electivity index, that takes into account prey availability, it was observed that the main taxonomic prey groups were eaten according to their proportion in the environment, with the only exception of ants (Formicidae) that were highly avoided by lizards.
Crowley, B.E. & Yanes, Y. & Mosher, S.G. & Rando, J.C. (2019) -
We used carbon (_13C) and nitrogen (_15N) isotopes to examine the foraging ecology of Tenerife giant rats (Canariomys bravoi) and lizards (Gallotia goliath) in northwestern Tenerife, which until recently, were the island’s largest terrestrial vertebrates. We combined new isotope data for 28 C. bravoi and 14 G. goliath with published regional data for both species and then compared these with data for co-occurring extant taxa and modern C3 plants. Isotope data suggest both extinct species relied primarily on C3 resources and were trophic omnivores. However, the two species appear to have partitioned their resources when living in sympatry. Isotopic overlap between C. bravoi and Rattus spp., and between G. goliath, extant Gallotia galloti, and introduced rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) suggests reliance on similar foods. We radiocarbon dated four C. bravoi and two G. goliath with the most extreme isotope values. These new dates do not settle the question of what triggered the demise of either species. Nevertheless, the data are most consistent with anthropogenically-induced extinction. Temporal isotopic trends contradict expectations if regional climate were responsible, and confidence intervals for radiocarbon dates suggest it is highly likely that both species were present when humans first settled the island.
Cruce, M. (1970) -
Cruce, M. (1971) -
Cruce, M. (1972) -
Cruce, M. (1977) -
A population of Lacerta t. taurica Pall, has been studied from 1967 to 1972 in the Oltenia region of Romania, where it inhabits sandy areas with short grass cover. Lacerta taurica grow mainly between their first and second hibernation period, the growth rate slowing down afterwards. During winter the lizards grow very slowly. Age categories can be based upon body length. The average population density was 100 lizards/ha, and the average standing crop biomass 360 g/ha. Yearly survival rate varies with age : 70-75 % between the first and the second winter, 86 % between the second and the third winter and 88-93 % for lizards over three years of age. Mortality rate is higher in younger individuals spending winter in poorly sheltered dens. Sex-ratio in the population is probably 50:50, but the num ber of males apparently increases during the breeding season, as females remain for a longer time in their hibernation shelters, and also in autumn when females enter first their wintering retreats.
Cruce, M. & Leonte, A. (1973) -
Crucitti, P. & Amori, G. & Battisti, C. & Giardini, M. (2013) -
In this work, a check-list of the species of Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals observed in the district “mentanese-cornicolano archipelago” of the Roman Campagna, north-east from Rome city area (Latium, Central Italy), a relict of mesoxerophilous woods with cultivated land, urban and suburban areas penetrated by infrastructures, is presented. We obtained data for 158 species among which 10 Amphibians, 16 Reptiles, 99 Birds and 33 Mammals, a quite exhaustive check-list; however, potentially gaps -species living in the territory but yet unknown, e.g. bats among Mammals- are discussed too. A special emphasis has been given to the numerous species of relevant interest from the ecological and conservational viewpoints. In the bibliography 40 papers are quoted which represent a quite exhaustive list devoted to the terrestrial vertebrates of the area.
Crucitti, P. & Cervoni, F. & Russo, E. di & Doglio, S. & Giardini, M. & Santoboni, L. (2021) -
We report the results of 78 field surveys, from October 2016 to May 2018, on the herpetofauna of the PRAN (Regional Archaeological Natural Park) Inviolata (Guidonia Montecelio, Roma). The protected area herpetological checklist shows 18 species, six amphibians and 12 reptiles (one of which is an invasive alien). The article briefly describes phenology and distribution of each species together with some ecoethological notes.
Crucitti, P. & Malori, M. & Rotella, G. & Tringali, L. & Virdia, A.itti, P. & (1990) -
After a brief introduction to the main geologica!, climatologica! and botanical features of the area- a territory of Latium region, Central Italy- the work synthetized data about its vertebrate fauna with exclusive regard to Amphibians, Reptiles an d Mammals. In this list 46 species and subspecies are considered ofwhich 8 are Amphibians, 11 Reptiles and 27 Mammals. Ecologica! analysis has focused the attenction on the absence or scarcity of many thermophilous species, a fact which finds explanation, according to the Authors, in the `continental` position ofthe district. Among the species, many are rare or localized and some considerations are carried out in order to their management and protection.
Crucitti, P. & Pulvirenti, C. & Ronci, D. & Santoboni, G. (2016) -
Crucitti, P. & Russo, E. di & Pellecchia, N. (2024) -
We discuss the herpetofauna of some small natural reserves in the Roman Campagna, also known as the “Mentanese Archipelago” district, northeast of Rome’s suburban areas. These reserves were established mainly in 1997, and are part of a mosaic landscape composed of fragmentary woodlands, urban developments, and agricultural areas with scattered streams, water points and buildings. A field study with the main aim of recording the herpetological diversity of three protected areas was carried out over the course of twenty-five years. Species richness is as follows: 1) Nature Reserve Nomentum with 12 reptiles and 6 amphibians. 2) Nature Reserve Macchia di Gattaceca and Macchia del Barco including “Pozzo del Merro” (one of the deepest sinkholes of the world). This second reserve is split into three distinct fragments: the xeric area of Macchia di Gattaceca with 11 reptiles and 2 amphibians; the wet area of Macchia del Barco with 10 reptiles and 6 amphibians; and the pin-point sinkhole area of “Pozzo del Merro” with 7 reptiles and 5 amphibians. 3) Natural and Archaeological Park of Inviolata with 13 reptiles and 7 amphibians. Using QGis software, we were able to assign to each parcel (wood, agricultural land, still water, running water, buildings) its percentage value of extent. The results of the QGis application enabled us to infer a positive effect, in terms of conservation of the populations of native herpetofauna species, of expanding non-intensive agricultural land. In addition, the presence of water bodies such as pools, ponds and flooded sinkholes in agricultural patches plays an outstandingly important role for the maintenance of herpetological diversity in a fragmented landscape.
Cruz, F. de la (2023) -
Cruz, F. de la & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. (2021) -
Cruzado-Caballero, P. & Castillo Ruiz, C. & Bolet, A. & Colmenero, J.R. & De la Nuez, J. & Casillas, R. & Llacer, S. & Bernardini, F., & Fortuny, J. (2019) -
The Canary Islands are an Atlantic archipelago known for its high number of endemic species. Among the most known endemic vertebrate species are the giant lizards of the genus Gallotia. We describe the cranial osteology of the first almost complete and articulated fossil skull of the taxon Gallotia auaritae, recovered from the lower-middle Pleistocene of the La Palma island. In this work, X-ray computed microtomography images were used to perform an exhaustive phylogenetic analysis where most of the extant and fossil species of the genus Gallotia were included for first time. This analysis recovered a monophyletic Gallotia clade with similar topology to that of molecular analyses. The newly described specimen shares some characters with the group formed by G. bravoana, G. intermedia and G. simonyi, G. auaritae, and its position is compatible with a referral to the latter. Our study adds new important data to the poorly known cranial morphology of G. auaritae, and the phylogenetic analysis reveals an unexpected power of resolution to obtain a morphology-based phylogeny for the genus Gallotia, for inferring the phylogenetic position of extinct species and for helping in the identification of fossil specimens.
Csermely, D. & Bonati, B. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2011) -
The typical lateral eye position in ectotherms likely facilitated the spread of visual lateralisation*i.e., the different use of the eyes*in those species. The diffusion of this form of lateralisation seems due to the possibility of carrying out more than one task simultaneously, some controlled by one eye and the visual structures it feeds and some by the other. Similar to other species, exploratory and monitoring behaviours seem to be under left ‘‘eye system’’ control. Wild individuals of the Common wall lizard Podarcis muralis were tested individually in captivity to ascertain whether they showed lateralisation when exploring a new environment, using preferentially the left eye. In Experiment 1, the lizards explored a maze. A left-turning bias was found, both at individual and population level, indicating a possible right hemisphere visual control. In Experiment 2, lizards explored a T-maze, preferring to enter the left rather than the right arm though without any particular preference in the head turns. In Experiment 3, the lizards had to exit an opaque box within a terrarium. We found a left-eye preference again for head turn while leaving the box. Our findings support the hypothesis of right hemisphere mediation of exploratory and monitoring behaviours in Podarcis muralis. In addition to previous studies on the same species, our results support the hypothesis of a simultaneous control of anti-predatory and exploratory behaviours (left-eye mediated) and predatory behaviour (right-eye mediated).
Csermely, D. & Bonati, B. & Romani, R. (2010) -
Detour tests provide a reliable indicator of the presence of visual lateralisation. Previous studies on fishes and birds suggest that preferences in choosing to detour an obstacle to reach a goal are due to asymmetries of eye use. We studied detour behaviour to reach a prey in males of Podarcis muralis in order to ascertain visual laterality for a predatory task. Lizards were found to be lateralised at both individual and population levels, although only a few lizards were found to express lateralisation at the level of the individual. The preferential direction of detouring is the left route around a transparent barrier, indicating a right eye/left hemisphere use to observe the prey and confirming the results of recent work. The eye used to fixate the prey was maintained longer in the same direction the lizards subsequently chose to approach it, confirming that the preference was basically due to visual asymmetry, not to motor asymmetry. To our knowledge this is the first study of detouring conducted on sauria, demonstrating how these lizards are right eye/left hemisphere lateralised for predatory tasks at individual and population level.
Cuervo, J.J. & Belliure, J. (2014) -
In spiny-footed lizards (Acanthodactylus erythrurus), adult females (but not males) show conspicuous red colouration in the tail and hind legs. To investigate the function of this red colouring and proximal causes of seasonal colour change, we captured adult females before the reproductive season and kept them in captivity in one of the three following situations: with a male and fertilization possible, with a male and fertilization impossible, or with another female (fertilization also impossible). Colour was quantified using spectrophotometry. Red colouration increased shortly before the onset of reproduction, but faded during the breeding season and became whitish (light buff-gray) in all cases. Both fertilized and unfertilized females laid eggs or were gravid after two months of the experiment, but while fertilized females laid mostly fertile eggs, unfertilized females only laid infertile eggs. Both egg formation and colour change might be triggered by abiotic factors, although female characteristics also play a role, since heavier females changed colour and laid eggs earlier. Females interacting freely with a male were darker at the end of the breeding season than females separated from the male, indicating that fertilization or physical contact might also have an effect on colouration. Colour change patterns found in this study suggest that female red colouration might have a mating-related function, but do not support a courtship rejection function for the red colour. However, whitish colouration resulting from red fading might signal gravidity in this species. Future experimental manipulation of female colouration will be needed to test these hypotheses.
Cuervo, J.J. & Belliure, J. & Negro, J.J. (2016) -
When integumentary tissue pigments are contained in chromatophores, tissue color might not depend exclusively on the amount of pigment. Whether coloration does or does not reflect pigment concentration may be very significant for intraspecific communication, for example when pigment concentration provides fitness-related information. We studied the pigment responsible for the orange/red ventral tail coloring in a lacertid lizard species (Acanthodactylus erythrurus), and whether the color was related to skin pigment concentration. The pigment was identified as a pterin, a higher concentration of which resulted in darker, more red-saturated, redder (less orange) ventral tail skin color. The dorsal tail integument, even though it appears mostly gray to the naked eye, also contained pterins, and furthermore, the dorsal and ventral pterin concentrations were positively correlated. A possible explanation for these results is that pterins accumulate in the skin of the whole tail, even if only needed in the ventral part, but are concealed in the dorsal part. In this way, ventral orange/red coloration would accurately reflect pterin concentration, which provides the basis for a signaling function, while dorsal coloration would become less conspicuous as an anti-predatory mechanism.
Cui, L. & Yang, C. & Zhang, D. & Lin, S. & Zhao, W. & Liu, P. (2022) -
The effects of warming temperatures on embryonic and hatchling development are critical for determining the vulnerability of species to climate warming. However, these effects have rarely been investigated in high-latitude oviparous species, particularly in their low-latitude margin populations. This study investigated the embryonic and hatchling development and fitness-related traits of a low-latitude margin population of a high-latitude lizard (Lacerta agilis). These traits were examined under present (24◦C), moderate warming (27 and 30◦C), and severe warming scenarios (33◦C). Based on embryonic and hatchling responses to thermal variation, this study aimed to predict the vulnerability of the early life stages of low-latitude margin population of Lacerta agilis to climate warming. The incubation period of the low-latitude margin population of Lacerta agilis decreased as the temperature increased from 24 to 33◦C. Hatching success was similar at 24, 27, and 30◦C but decreased significantly at 33◦C. No differences with temperature were observed for hatchling snout-vent length and hatchling body mass. The sprint speed was higher for hatchlings from temperatures of 24 and 33◦C. The growth rate of hatchlings was highest at 30◦C; however, the survival rate of hatchlings was not affected by the thermal environment. This study demonstrated that even for a low-latitude margin population of the high-latitude lizard, Lacerta agilis, moderate warming (i.e., 27 and 30◦C) would benefit embryonic and hatchling development. This was indicated by the results showing higher hatching success, growth rate, and survival rate. However, if temperatures increase above 33◦C, development and survival would be depressed significantly. Thus, low-latitude margin population of high-latitude species Lacerta agilis would benefit from climate warming in the near future but would be under stress if the nest temperature exceeded 30◦C.
Cunningham, M.J. & Turner, A.A. & Bates, M.F. (2014) -
Cunningham, P. (2013) -
Cunningham, P.C. & Wassenaar, T. & Henschel, J. (2012) -
Cunningham, P.L. (2001) -
Acanthodactylus opheodurus ARNOLD 1980 ist im Gebiet zwischen Al Ain und dem Jebel Hafit (Emirat Abu Dhabi, Vereinigte Arabische Emirate) lokal regelmäßig anzutreffen, In der heißen Jahreszeit ist die Art ausschließlich morgens (07.30 – 10.30) an der Oberfläche aktiv und erbeutet die Nahrung (vorwiegend Ameisen) sowohl aktiv jagend als auch als Lauerjäger. Zum Zweck der Trhermoregulation, Beutefang und Feindvermeidung wird am häufigsten das Requisitangebot buschförmiger Haloxylon salicornicum und Acacia tortilis genutzt.
Cunningham, P.L. (2011) -
Cuonz, R. (0000) -
Cuonz, R. (2018) -
Cvitanić, A. (1959) -
Cvitanić, A. (1968) -
Cvitanić, A. (1984) -
Cvitanić, A. (1995) -
Cyrén, O. (1924) -
Cyrén, O. (1928) -
Cyrén, O. (1929) -
Cyren, O. (1933) -
Cyrén, O. (1933) -
Cyrén, O. (1934) -
Cyrén, O. (1935) -
Cyren, O. (1941) -
Cyrén, O. (1941) -
Czajlik, P. (1989) -
(The montane habitat of the green lizard - Lacerta viridis viridis LAURENTI - at Úvár in West Mátra /height above sea level 640 - 675 m/.) Author investigates the judgement of the specis in the zoogeographical special literature with the help of some zoogeographical data and the oecological characterisation of a new montane habitat. The Lacerta viridis viridis can be found only sporadic in the Northern Highlands of Hungary under very dry and very warm microclimatical circumstances which differ significantly from the local mezoclimatical values, and among specific configurations of the terrain.
Czaker, R. (1970) -
Czaker, R. (1972) -
Czekes, R. (1997) -
Czekés, R. (2000) -
Czermak, M (1911) -
Czernay (1851) -
Czizek, I. (1904) -
D`Amico, M. & Bastianelli, G. & Faraone, F.P. & Lo Valvo, M. (2018) -
The Aeolian Wall Lizard (Podarcis raffoneae) is an endemic species of the Aeolian Archipelago of Italy (Mediterranean Sea). Its distribution is limited to three islets and two relict populations on a relatively large island: Vulcano (a population on the summit of Gran Cratere volcano and another on Capo Grosso promontory). The critically endangered Aeolian Wall Lizard is threatened by the introduction of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus), which successfully competes and hybridizes with the endemic lizard. The invasive lizard is widespread on Vulcano, although the literature does not provide the exact distribution. Our first aim was updating the distribution of the Italian Wall Lizard on Vulcano, with special attention to the last enclaves of the Aeolian Wall Lizard. Our second purpose was investigating the factors determining this distribution range. In the spring of 2016, we surveyed the Italian Wall Lizard distribution on Vulcano, considering 10 human-related and 10 natural areas, including Gran Cratere volcano and Capo Grosso promontory. We recorded the presence of the invasive Italian Wall Lizard in each survey area. As a consequence, the Aeolian Wall Lizard populations of Vulcano face an imminent extinction risk. The main factors increasing the presence probability of this invasive lizard on Vulcano were the nearness to the harbor (the introduction gateway) and the urbanization degree (the invasion pathway). Therefore, we suggest the implementation of a control plan simultaneously acting on the areas of sympatry (mostly Capo Grosso promontory), the introduction gateway (Vulcano harbor), and the source populations (urban areas).
d`Aubuisson (1871) -
D`Este, L. & Buffa, R. & Casu, C. & Carboni, N. & Pelagi, M. & Siccardi, A.G. & Renda, T. (1993) -
The distribution, argyrophilia, and the possible amine/peptide co-localizations in endocrine cells immunoreactive (IR) to antisera against chromogranin A (CgA) and chromogranin B (CgB) in the alimentary tract of the lizard Podarcis sicula have been investigated using novel monoclonal antibodies. Many CgA-IR and CgB-IR cells were found in the tract, except in the distal small intestine. Almost all chromogranin-IR cells (Cgs-IR) were also argyrophilic with parallel intensity. Some CgA-IR and CgB-IR cells did not display co-localized amines or peptides. CgA or CgB or both were found co-localized, with some local differences, in almost all serotonin-IR, histamine-IR, substance P-IR and gastric peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY)-IR cells. Moreover, both Cgs were co-localized only in some somatostatin-IR cells, whereas neurotensin-IR, gastrin/cholecystokinin-IR, pancreatic polypeptide-IR and intestinal PYY-IR cells did not show any co-localization with Cgs. The presence of Cgs in the endocrine cells was heterogeneous with regard to the complex interrelationship with their amine/peptide content. Consequently, Cgs cannot be considered as universal “markers” of all endocrine cell types.
D`Uva, V. (1969) -
D`Uva, V. & Ciarcia, G. & Ciarletta, A. (1979) -
The secretory activity of the subcommissural organ (SCO) is affected by adrenalectomy, adrenalectomy + castration, and by an increase in ambient temperature in adrenalectomized and adrenalectomized + castrated animals. Adrenalectomy inhibits the activity of the SCO. After adrenalectomy + castration the decrease in the secretory activity of the SCO is more rapid. In contrast, an increase in the ambient temperature in adrenalectomized animals induces a recrudescence of the activity of the SCO. The increase in temperature in castrated + adrenalectomized lizards does not affect the inhibition produced by this type of surgical treatment. The histological changes are discussed on the basis of results obtained in the present study and in previous experiments.
D`Uva, V. & Ciarletta, A. & Varano, L. & Laforgia, V. (1985) -
D´Eath, F.M. (1987) -
D´Uva, V. (1972) -
D´Uva, V. & Ciarcia, G. & Ciarletta, A. (1974) -
D´Uva, V. & Ciarcia, G., Ciarletta, A. & Angelini, F. (1977) -
Dadda, T. & Storniolo, F. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Sacchi, R. (2023) -
Melanin-based dorsal pattern polymorphisms are common in reptiles and generally evolve under the interaction between opposite selective pressures, notably thermal advantage in cold environments and background matching to avoid predation. When those pressures change over space and time, the relative frequencies of morphs can vary across the species range. However, no previous study has analysed the spatial patterns of variation of morphs under a phylogenetic perspective in addition to the adaptive responses to natural selection. In this study, we focused on the distributional patterns of the three dorsal morphs of Podarcis muralis at wide-range scale to assess how they associate with geography, climate, microhabitat, phylogeny and sexual dimorphism. By using open access data from iNaturalist, we assembled a dataset of 4096 georeferenced points with information on sex and morph. Data were analysed through Bayesian GLMs, and four alternative models were formulated depending on the specific factors affecting morphs’ frequency. The dorsal morphs are not randomly distributed in Europe, but follow clear geographic patterns, vary with altitude and habitats, show sex-specific trends, and correlate with the phylogenetic history of the species. When comparing models, the phylogenetic model always obtained the best performance, and no overlap with other models occurred, thus best explaining the distributional patterns of dorsal morphs. The evolutionary processes, in addition to present environmental pressures, can significantly affect local-scale microevolutionary adaptations, influencing the current distribution of dorsal phenotypes across the species range. More generally, results point out the importance of considering the evolutionary processes when analysing distributional patterns of polymorphisms.
Dahl, H. (1894) -
Dahl, K.S. (1944) -
Dahmana, A. & Azegah, A. & Ghilas, R. & Peyre, O. & Moali, A. (2006) -
La présente étude vient apporter les premières données faunistiques et écologiques sur les amphibiens et reptiles en Kabylie de la Soummam, région dont, à notre connaissance, aucune étude n’a été consacrée à ce sujet auparavant. Le travail de terrain s’est étalé du début avril à fin juin 2006, en suivant un protocole d’échantillonnage par stations au niveau des principales zones humides de la région (cours d’eau permanents et mares temporaires) ainsi que de quelques milieux terrestres. Un total de 6 espèces d’amphibiens et 17 espèces de reptiles a été identifié dans la région. Les données recueillies sur le peuplement herpétologique et le milieu ont fait l’objet d’une discussion autour des aspects faunistiques, biogéographiques et écologiques de l’herpétofaune de la zone étudiée et dégager quelques pistes de recherche à développer dans l’avenir.
Dai, X. & Chen, B. & Zhang, Z.-W. & Wang, Y.-Z. (2006) -
This paper analyzed the morphological differences among the 8 Eremias species distributed in China.258 specimens were collected and measured.15 countable characters were selected to principal component analysis of data reduction.Based on the loudings of the first three principal components, scatterplots were figured out for further analysis.The results showed that 8 species located in three different regions in the scatterplots.They were E. argus species group (E. argus and E. brenchleyi), E. velox species group (E. velox and E. vermiculata), and E. multiocellata species group (E. multiocellata, E. arguta, E. przewalskii and E. grammica).The main differences between E. argus species group and other two species groups were presented on fn、pfa、scc、nvll and fprs, and it indicated that E. argus and E. brenchleyi were distinctly different from other species of Eremias.E. velox species group could be distinguished from E. multiocellata species group mainly by the character vbfp.The character pfa was found unstable in E. argus, and in 107 specimens there are five types on the numbers of prefrontal and most of them have 4 prefrontals.This article suggested that the character of prefrontal in E. argus was in the stage of intensive evolution, which indicated the formatting of new subspecies of E. argus.This research also agreed that E. quadrifrons Strauch (1876) was an invalid species.The character sisl could be used to distinguish E. argus from E. brenchleyi, which was regarded as a valid species and this character was treated as the difference to classify different species.E. velox and E. vermiculata could be easily distinguished by the characters nvll and clov.The character oa indicated E. grammica should be a group independent among all 8 species.The research showed that the difference between E. m. yarkandensis and E. m. multiocellata was sisl and larger than the differences in E. m. multiocellata、E. arguta and E. przewalskii.We speculated that E. m. yarkandensis should be a valid species but not a subspecies of E. multiocellata.E. m. multiocellata and E. przewalskii were so similar that it was difficult to distinguish them by morphological countable characters.We doubted the validity of the E. przewalskii.Finally based on the results of this research, 8 species were divided into four species groups: E. argus group (E. argus and E. brenchleyi), E. velox group (E. velox and E. vermiculata), E. multiocellata group (E. multiocellata, E. arguta and E. przewalskii), and E. grammica group.
Dai, X. & Zeng, X.-M. & Chen, B. & Wang, Y.-Z. (2004) -
Based on the Giemsa-dyeing karyotypes and silver-staining bands of 15 populations from different localities in China belonging to 6 species of the genus Eremias , We found all species studied have 19 pairs of chromosomes, the size of chromosomes reduces gradually and there are no marked differences between the arranged pairs of macrochromosomes except the last pair of microchromosome. There are the same karyotype formula as 2n=38=36I+2m with NF=38 in E. argus, E. multiocellata, E. velox, E. arguta and E. grammica; but the karyotype formula of E. vermiculata is different as 2n=38=12V+2sI+22I+2m with NF=50. The NOR are all located on one small pair in female of E. velox, and E. arguta , in male of E. grammica and E. vermiculata ,and in both male and female of E. multiocellata. We have not found two or more than two pairs of NOR. Having one pair of NOR may be common in Genus Eremias and also the trait of Eremias. We speculate that the derivation of the karyotype of E. vermiculata had two possible way: one experienced the stage of triploid, and later the Robertsonian transposal of chromosomes; the other way was through the inversions between the arms on the chromosome and the phenomenon of inversions might occur during or subsequently after the upheaval of the Tibet and Qinghai plateau and the founding of the Tianshan . With regard to the trend of the evolution of chromosomes in the lizards ([1]), the karyotype of E. vermiculata is more advanced. Making specialties of E. vermiculata will help in building the phylogenic tree of Eremias. In both male and female of the species studied, the heteromorphic sex-chromosomes were not found.
Dajcman, U. (2020) -
Our thesis aimedto recognize which intraerythrocytic blood parasites infect two species of Slovene lacertids, common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis),and Horvath`s rock lizard (Iberolacerta horvathi). We confirmed the identity of the parasites using molecular approaches by sequencing a part of the 18S rRNA gene. All observedparasiteindividuals belong to the genus Karyolysus, knownby parasitizing reptiles and lacertids specifically.Karyolysus is a genus of protozoan hamogreagrines.Further work included the analysis of prevalence and intensity of parasitic infection in both species of lizards. We compared prevalence and intensity between species, sexes, size, locations, altitudes,and whether the populations live in syntopy or alotopy. We confirmed that the prevalence and intensity of blood parasites were significantly higher in Horvath`s rock lizards. We also observed a higher prevalence of parasites in larger individuals, but this was found in only two locations. Contrary to expectations, we found in two localities that the intensity of parasites was lower in larger animals. The intensity was also higher in males. We did not confirm any differences in prevalence or intensity between syntopic and alotopic populations. We also did notobserve any differences related to altitude. Our results confirm an asymmetricparasitic prevalence and intensitybetween the two competing lizard species that may have a potential influence on theircompetitive relationshipand coexistence
Dajcman, U. & Carretero, M.A. & Megia-Palma, R. & Perera, A. & Kostanjsek, T. & Zagar, A. (2021) -
In parasite–host interactions host species may differ in their ability to fight parasitic infections, while other ecological interactions, including competition, may differentially alter their physiological state, making them even more susceptible to parasites. In this study, we analyse the haemogregarine blood parasites infecting two competing lizard species, Iberolacerta horvathi and Podarcis muralis, and explore host–parasite relationships under different host competition scenarios. Both species were infected with haemogregarine parasites belonging to the genus Karyolysus. Using the 18S rRNA gene, six new Karyolysus haplotypes were identified clustering with other Central and Eastern European samples, and widely shared between both lizard hosts. Haemogregarine infections were detected at all sampled sites with over 50% of individuals parasitized. Overall, I. horvathi was more frequently and also more intensely parasitized than P. muralis, with higher infection rates observed in syntopy. Males of both species tended to be more frequently infected and showed a higher infection intensity than conspecific females. The results suggest that parasitisation by haemogregarines may be relevant in the dynamics of the competitive relationship between these lizard species. More studies, including immunological response analysis, and the identification of the vectors are needed to better understand host–parasite relationships and competition.
Dajcman, U. & Perera, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Kostanjsek, R. & Zagar, A. (2019) -
Parasites are important drivers shaping animal populations by affecting growth, performance, reproductive successand survival. In sympatric related host species, parasites may shape their interspecific interaction and vice-versa - the intensity of parasite infection and parasitemia couldbe influenced by beforementioned interactions. Members of the genus Hepatozoon (Apicomplexa, Adeleorina) are the most common and widely distributed intracellular parasites oflizards. In this work we studied the parasitization patterns of tw lizard species, Iberolacerta horvathi and Podarcis muralis, ranging Slovenia either in sympatry or in allopatry. We used the 18S rRNA gene to confirm parasite identity an identify potential new haplotype an estimated prevalenc and intensity using microscopy. Then, we tested for the effect of host species, geographic region, body size sex and sympatry/allopatry on these parameters. Preliminary results show significant differences in parasite prevalence and intensity among localities, as well as differences in parasite intensity both among localities and host species. This one of the first studies examining the blood parasites in Slovene reptiles combining microscop and molecular methods, and as such expands our knowledge on parasite diversity, their possible impact in this region and the interaction patterns betwee both lizard species. In addition, the study recovers the variation between sympatry and allopatry as a way of understanding coexistence of two lizard species occupying a similar ecological niche.
Dalbeck, L. (2011) -
Dalbeck, L. & Hachtel, M. (2000) -
Dalbeck, L. & Hachtel, M. (2011) -
Dalbeck, L. & Haese, U. (2005) -
Dalessi, D. (2005) -
Dall`Asta, A. (2016) -
Dall`Asta, A. & Bressi, N. (2011) -
Dall`Asta, A. & Richard, J. (2016) -
Dallai, R. & Baroni-Urbani, C. (1967) -
Damadi, E. & Karamiani, R. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Gholamifard, A. (2017) -
During herpetological fieldwork from April 2013 to March 2014 on the herpetofauna of the counties of Saravan, Sib and Suran, Zaboli, Sarbaz, and Chabahar in south east of Sistan and Baluchestan Province, Southeastern Iran a total of 97 specimens of lizards belonging to 19 species and five subspecies, 16 genera, and six families were collected and identified as follows: Calotes versicolor, Laudakia nupta nupta, L. n. fusca, Phrynocephalus scutellatus, Trapelus agilis agilis (Agamidae); Agamura persica, Bunopus tuberculatus, Cyrtopodion scabrum (Gekkonidae); Acanthodactylus blanfordii, A. micropholis, Eremias fasciata, E. persica , Mesalina watsonana, Ophisops elegans (Lacertidae); Ablepharus grayanus, Eumeces schneiderii zarudnyi, Ophiomorus brevipes, O. tridactylus (Scincidae); Uromastyx asmussi (Uromastycidae); and Varanus griseus caspius (Varanidae). The most diverse families of the present collection are the Lacertidae with six species, followed by Agamidae and Scincidae each with four species. Detailed information of each lizard species was also provided.
Damas-Moreira, I. (2021) -
Tonic immobility, or the ability to play dead, is widespread among vertebrates. It is a last line of defence against a threat, and usually follows physical restraint. Here, I report two lizards exhibiting tonic immobility in the presence of humans, but remarkably, without any handling or physical contact. These two lizards belonged to an invasive population of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus), and both events took place in different years and situations, suggesting this behaviour may be more common than previously thought. There are rare documented cases of animals exhibiting this behaviour without handling; however, to my knowledge, this is the first description of a lizard displaying tonic immobility to humans, in the absence of handling. This is also the first incident of tonic immobility in the Italian Wall Lizard. I discuss these anecdotal events in the light of this invasive population inhabiting a highly urbanized location.
Damas-Moreira, I. & Harris, D.J. & Rosado, D. & Tavares, I. & Maia, J.P. & Salvi, D. & Perera, A. (2014) -
Nowadays it is widely accepted that parasites play a significant role in the community structures in which they occur, and ultimately upon ecosystems. Furthermore, infection by parasites might be associated with considerable deterioration of individual host fitness. While the apicomplexan parasites belonging to the genus Hepatozoon can provoke severe deleterious effects in some mammals, impact on other hosts, such as reptiles, is still unclear. We assessed the effect of Hepatozoon parasites on Podarcis vaucheri flight-initiation distance from a simulated predator, a behaviour that is determinant for a successful escape and is therefore likely to have major implications on a lizard’s survival. We found that flight-initiation distance was not dependent on the time of the day or tail condition. Subadults exhibited worse body condition than adults and females had worse body condition than males. Regarding intensity of parasitism, subadults showed higher parasitemia levels. Escape distance was not associated with parasitic load or any of the other studied features, which is indicative of limited impact of the parasite. This negligible effect might explain the remarkably high prevalence (more than 96%) of this parasitic group within this P. vaucheri population.
Damas-Moreira, I. & Maia, J.P. & Tomé, B. & Salvi, D. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. (2022) -
Assessment of parasites and their pathogenicity is essential for studying the ecology of populations and understanding their dynamics. In this study, we investigate the prevalence and intensity of infection of haemogregarines (phylum Apicomplexa) in two sympatric lizard species, Podarcis vaucheri and Scelarcis perspicillata, across three localities in Morocco, and their effect on host immune response. We used the Phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) skin testing technique to relate the level of immune response with parasite infection. Prevalence and intensity levels were estimated with microscopy, and 18S rRNA gene sequences were used to confirm parasite identity. All parasites belong to the haemogregarine lineage found in other North African reptiles. There were differences in prevalence between localities and sexes. Overall, infected lizards were larger than uninfected ones, although we did not detect differences in parasitaemia across species, sex or locality. The swelling response was not related to the presence or number of haemogregarines, or to host body size, body condition, sex or species. We found no evidence of impact for these parasites on the circulating blood cells or the hosts’ immune system, but more data is needed to assess the potential impact of mixed infections, and the possibility of cryptic parasite species.
Damas-Moreira, I. & Oliveira, D. & Santos, J.L. & Riley, J.L. & Harris, D.J. & Whiting, M.J. (2018) -
Species that are able to solve novel problems through social learning from either a conspecific or a heterospecific may gain a significant advantage in new environments. We tested the ability of a highly successful invasive species, the Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula, to solve a novel foraging task when social information was available from both a conspecific and an unfamiliar heterospecific (Podarcis bocagei). We found that Italian wall lizards that had access to social information made fewer errors, regardless of whether the demonstrator was a conspecific or a heterospecific, compared to Italian wall lizards that individually learnt the same task. We suggest that social learning could be a previously underappreciated, advantageous mechanism facilitating invasions.
Damas-Moreira, I. & Riley, J.L. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. & Whiting, M.J. (2020) -
Biological invasions are a contemporary global threat because invasive species can have substantial negative economic and ecological impacts. Invasive species can outcompete native species through two main mechanisms: interference competition (direct, negative interactions like aggression) and/or exploitative competition (indirect, negative interactions resulting from species using the same, limited resources like food). The invasive Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) was introduced into Lisbon, Portugal, 20 years ago, and is believed to be locally displacing the native green Iberian wall lizard (Podarcis virescens). We experimentally tested for competition between these two lizard species by establishing heterospecific (one pair of each species) and conspecific (two pairs of the same species; control) treatments in enclosures containing a high- and a low-quality refuge. Lizards were fed from food dishes every other day. We tested if species showed interference (aggressive behaviour, stealing food and shelter exclusion) or exploitative competition (tolerance between species but differences in food consumption efficiency). We found evidence for exploitative competition: the invasive species arrived first at food stations, consumed more food and gained more weight than the native species. We suggest that exploitative competition may, in part, explain the observed displacement of P. virescens from contact areas with the invasive P. siculus. Deciphering the competitive mechanisms between invasive and native species is vital for understanding the invasion process.
Damas-Moreira, I. & Riley, J.L. & Harris, D.J. & Whiting, M.J. (2019) -
To reduce the impact of biological invasions, we need to understand the behavioural mechanisms that enable some species to be successful invaders. Testing differences in behaviour between sympatric congeneric species with different invasive potential is an opportunity to study specific behavioural traits associated with invasion success. Using the invasive Italian wall lizard, Podarcis sicula, and a noninvasive congeneric, the green Iberian wall lizard, Podarcis virescens, which live in sympatry in a location that is novel for P. sicula, we tested their exploratory behaviour, neophobia and boldness: all traits that should promote invasion success. The invasive P. sicula was more exploratory, bold and neophilic than the sympatric native P. virescens. Native lizards had highly repeatable behaviour, whereas in P. sicula boldness was the only behavioural trait that was repeatable. The behavioural traits of the native species, but not the invasive species, were correlated. A lack of correlation between behavioural traits, as well as a lack of repeatability in two of the three behavioural traits, suggests higher levels of behavioural plasticity in P. sicula, which may also explain the success of this lizard during invasions. Our experiment highlights the potential importance of behavioural traits in invasions and provides insight into why P. sicula is such a successful invader.
Damas-Moreira, I. & Tome, B. & Harris, D.J. & Maia, J.P. & Salvi, D. (2014) -
Damas-Moreira, I.D. (2022) -
The world has been changing at an unprecedented rate due to the `progress` of human society. Globalization has changed our way of living, and it translates into severe negative effects on our ecosystems. Additionally, globalization also demands more connections and transport, creating frequent and dynamic networks worldwide, of both people and cargo. This can lead to the movement of thousands of species outside their native range, and biological invasions are now a contemporary global problem. While most invasions end in failure, some manage to successfully take hold and adapt to new locations. What determines a species` invasive success is of great interest and importance for conservation efforts. Behaviour is believed to play a key role in the success of invasive species, although the mechanisms are still unclear, especially for unintentional invasions. Members of the lizard genus Podarcis show high variability in their invasive potential and are thus a well-suited model for studying the role of behaviour during biological invasions. The Italian wall lizard, Podarcis sicula, is a globally invasive species that hitchhikes on transportation of people or cargo, and does well in novel environments. In addition to behaviour, there is mounting evidence that cognition may also be a determining factor for invasion success. The aim of my thesis is to understand the role of behaviour and cognition in determining what makes P. sicula such a good invader. I used animals from an introduced population in Lisbon (Portugal) to examine behavioural traits that might be linked to a species` invasive success. My original contribution to knowledge is uncovering the potential role of behavioural flexibility, social learning ability, behavioural traits, and competition in the invasion process. Although I focused on the invasive lizard P. sicula, my study highlights the potential role of behaviour and cognition in invasions more broadly. My thesis has thus 4 chapters written as stand-alone publications that deal with different behavioural components. I predicted that P. sicula would have greater levels of behavioural flexibility than congeneric non-invasive species - P. bocagei and P. carbonelli. The ability to reverse a previously learnt discrimination can be indicative of behavioural flexibility. I used a discrimination task and a reversal and quantified the number of errors and overall learning ability of all three species (chapter I). The invasive species had relatively less difficulty than the non-invasive species to reverse the task. Also, I found different cognitive ability between the invasive species and the two non-invasive species (P. bocagei and P. carbonelli had a more similar learning pattern between them). Chapter II dealt with the ability of P. sicula to obtain relevant social information to solve a task, from other P. sicula, or from a different species they had never encountered in nature (P. bocagei). The role of heterospecific learning in biological invasions has never been studied before.
Damhoureyeh, S.A. & Qarqaz, M.A. & Abu Baker, M. & Himdan, N. & Eid, E. & Amr, Z.S. (2009) -
Twenty-one species of reptiles and amphibians belonging to nine families were recorded in this survey. These species included one amphibian, one tortoise, 12 lizards, and seven snakes. The present study is the fi rst attempt to compare between opportunistic and systematic survey methods in Jordan for reptiles and amphibians. The opportunistic survey is the method of choice when conducting a survey to assess the presence or absence of reptilian species regardless of their abundance. On the other hand, the systematic survey proved to be an excellent method to evaluate the abundance of species, expressed in the total number of observations. Ophisops elegans was by far the most frequently observed species and accounted for 28.94 % and 61.03 % of all observations when employing opportunistic and systematic surveys respectively. Additionally, this lizard was found in all types of habitats studied within the reserve.
Damme, R. van (2018) -
Damme, R. van & Bauwens, D. & Thoen, C. & Vanderstighelen, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1995) -
The ability to recognize chemical cues from predatory snakes is congenital in the common lizard Lacerta vivipara. This conclusion follows from a series of experiments in which we observed the behavior of naive lab-born lizards in terraria that had previously been inhabited by predatory snakes. Chemicals from both the viper Vipera berus (a sympatric predator) and the smooth snake Coronella austriaca (an allopatric saurophagic snake) elicited a sharp increase in tongue-flick rates. The lizards, when confronted with snake chemicals, exhibited an increased number of foot shakes, tail vibrations and starts, and moved about in a strange, jerky way. In these aspects, the behavioral response of juvenile lizards resembled that of adults. The only quantitative age-related difference concerned thermoregulatory be havior: whereas juveniles refrained almost completely from basking in the presence of snake chemicals, adult lizards basked equally long in snake and control experiments.
Daniel, R.E. & Edmond, B.S. & Briggler, J.T, (2015) -
Daniels, R. & Altwegg, R. & Clusella-Trullas. S. & Tolley, K.A. (2016) -
The Spotted Sand Lizard, Pedioplanis lineoocellata, is widespread across much of southern African found primarily in open habitats. Recent work uncovered four mitochondrial DNA clades which were previously unknown. The formation of these clades is thought to be linked to the Plio-Pleistocene glacial cycles. Furthermore, two of the most geographically widespread clades occur sympatrically in the Loeriesfontein region which has raised questions of possible hybridisation. To investigate gene flow between the latter two clades, samples were profiled at nine microsatellite markers and genetic patterns assessed using estimates of divergence and migration, and a discriminant analysis of principle components. While measures of genetic differentiation and the proportion of recent migrates at each population supports greater gene flow over a few 10s of kilometres and far less over 100s of kilometres, there was no isolation-by-distance pattern. This suggests that gene flow is influenced by barriers or environmental resistance to gene flow. Microsatellite genetic clusters did not match mitochondrial clades which was interpreted as evidence of recent gene flow between the two clades. Hybridisation at Loeriesfontein could not be detected because mitochondrial clades were not genetically distinct in terms of microsatellite loci investigated. Mitochondrial lineages may occur sympatrically at places other than Loeriesfontein but were not sampled by chance because of small sample sizes in the previous study. The regions of overlap between mitochondrial clades may be more extensive than previously thought. Further clarity regarding the formation of clusters awaits more comprehensive sampling.
Daniels, R.J. (2014) -
Dispersal determines connectivity between populations within a species and is a regulator of genetic differentiation through gene flow. Although the necessity of dispersal for gene flow is clear, for many taxa the relationship between the two is not well understood. Gene flow, or a restriction thereof, may be inferred from population-level genetic divergence estimates. These measures are averages of contemporary and historic gene flow and as such they are not necessarily easily compared to measures of real-time dispersal. Changes in dispersal have been inferred from present day spatial genetic structure for many southern African taxa and further associated with environmental change events. Pedioplanis lineoocellata is a southern African endemic lacertid with a mitochondrial DNA structure that may have been the result of Plio-Pleistocene glacial climatic oscillations. As a wide-spread, open habitat species, P. lineoocellata is an excellent study species for examining the relationship between dispersal and gene flow. In the first data chapter, Chapter 2, nine new microsatellite markers are described for several populations for the purpose of examining gene flow and genetic structure in the species. The possibility of null alleles, population bottlenecks and high inbreeding are investigated as possible explanations for the detected deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE). The presence of null alleles and, at one population, relatively high inbreeding best explains the HWE deviations. While null allele frequencies were not excessively high, this caveat should be borne in mind when interpreting results. In Chapter 3 the microsatellite markers were used to assess the geographic genetic patterns for P. lineoocellata across the distribution of the two most wide-spread mitochondrial lineages and to test for evidence of hybridization at a point of clade contact in the Loeriesfontein area. Microsatellite genetic clusters did not match the mtDNA lineages, a possible result of gene flow between clades. However, measures of genetic differentiation and recent migration indicate only weak contemporary long distance gene flow. There was no evidence of genetic admixture at the Loeriesfontein area despite sympatric mtDNA lineages. The complexity of the geographic arrangement of the microsatellite clusters may be attributed to historic range contraction and expansion events for the species. In the last data chapter, evidence for an isolation-by-distance (IBD) pattern was examined within the most widespread mtDNA clade. Sampling over hundreds of kilometres produced an IBD pattern when using spatial autocorrelation while failure to detect IBD using the Mantel test was likely a result of the complex arrangement of microsatellite clusters. A combination of genetic data and demographic data was used to estimate the annual dispersal distances based on the neighbourhood size concept. Results indicated high levels of dispersal that covered distances of a few hundred metres, greater than is expected for a lacertid lizard. Strong dispersal propensity would have influenced gene flow and genetic structure found in this thesis and will further influence future responses to environmental changes for the species.
Danielyan, F.D. (0000) -
Danielyan, F.D. (1965) -
Даниелян, Ф.Д. (1965) -
Danielyan, F.D. (1967) -
Даниелян, Ф.Д. (1967) -
Danielyan, F.D. (1970) -
Danielyan, F.D. (1971) -
Даниелян, Ф.Д. (1971) -
Danielyan, F.D. (1977) -
Danielyan, F.D. (1981) -
Danielyan, F.D. (1986) -
Danielyan, F.D. (1987) -
Danielyan, F.D. (1989) -
Danielyan, F.D. (2003) -
Danielyan, F.D. (2010) -
Danielyan, F.D. & Arakelyan, M. & Spangenberg, B.E. (2018) -
The study of the sympatric population, located in the Ijevan region of Armenia, where the bisexual species D. raddei coexists with three partenogenetic species - D. rostombekovi, D. dahli and D. armeniaca has shown that in this population a hybridization process is taking place between the D. raddei and D. rostombekowi species. Of the captured 104 D. rostombekowi in the study area, 18 triploid hybrid males have been found. A comparative study of the smears and histological slides prepared from the testicles of 9 hybrid males has detected their possible fertility. The recorded triploid hybrid males could potentially play important role in hybrid speciation.
Danielyan, F.D. & Arakelyan, M. & Stepanyan, I. (2008) -
Along with sterile triploid females, the male hybrids, intersexual individuals, female hybrids with developing follicles and eggs as well as tetraploid male hybrid are found in the mixed population of three species of rock lizards’ genus Darevskia in mountain steppe zone of central Armenia. Intensive microevolution takes place in this sympatric population. The evolutionary potential for hybridogenic speciation by Caucasian rock lizards is discussed. Հայաստանի կենտրոնական մասի լեռնատափաստանային գոտում, Darevskia ցեղին պատկանող երկսեռ և կուսածին ժայռային մողեսների երեք տեսակների խառը պոպուլյացիաներում, ստերիլ տրիպլոիդ էգերի հետ հայտնաբերվել են տրիպլոիդ հիբրիդային էգեր` զարգացող օօցիտներով և ձվերեվ, հիբրիդային արու և ինտերսեքսուալ առանձնյակներ, ինչպես նաև տետրապլոիդ արու առանձնյակ: Այդ պոպուլյացիայում ընթանում է միկրոէվոլյուցիոն գործընթաց: Քննարկվում է Կովկասյան ժայռային մողեսների հիբրիդոգեն տեսակառաջացման էվոլյուցիոն պոտենցիալը: В горно-степной зоне центральной Армении, в смешанной популяции трех видов двуполых и партеногенетических скальных ящериц рода Darevskia, наряду со стерильными триплоидными гибридными самками, обнаружены триплоидные гибридные самки с развивающимися фолликулами и яйцами, гибридные самцы, интерсексуальные особи, а также тетраплоидный гибридный самец. В данной смешанной популяции протекает интенсивный микроэволюционный процесс. Обсуждается эволюционный потенциал гибридогенного видообразования у Кавказских скальных ящериц.
A unique hybridization zone of rock lizard species of genus Darevskia, with diploid (2n), triploid (3n) and tetraploid (4n) individuals, occurs in the mountain steppe of central Armenia. Our long-term monitoring has showed an increasing birth rate of triploid hybrids in this mixed population. Among these hybrids, the frequency of captured males with fully developed reproductive systems and presumably fertile females also increased significantly. Consequently, intensive microevolution has taken place in this sympatric population. The morphological, ecological, cytological, histological, and parasitological characteristics of the hybrid Darevskia are presented here and compared with parental species.
Danielyan, F.D. & Grigoryan, A. & Aslanyan, A.V. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Arzumanyan, G. (1998) -
Даниелян, Ф.Д. & Григорян, А. & Асланян А.В. & Даревский И.С. & Арзуманян Г. (1998) -
Danielyan, F.D. & Haikazian, A.K. (1974) -
Даниелян, Ф.Д. & Айказян, А.К. (1974) -
Danier, A. (2010) -
Ein Bericht über die Terrarienhaltung und die Nachzucht von Takydromus smaragdinus BOULENGER, 1887.
Danier, A. (2013) -
Dankler, M. (1900) -
Danon, G. & Andelkovic, M. & Urosevic, A. (2018) -
Danon, G. & Urosevic, A. & Andelkovic, M. & Ivanovic, A. (2018) -
Dappen, N.B. (2010) -
In many species, secondary sexual characters increase male fitness, yet the same traits can be detrimental when expressed in females due to differences in selective pressures between the sexes. This sexually antagonistic selection may drive intralocus sexual conflict (ISC), in which genes that are beneficial when expressed in one sex are detrimental when expressed in the other. ISC is thought to drive the evolution of sexual dimorphism in these traits through the decoupling of the trait’s expression between the sexes. Nevertheless, in many species male-typical secondary sex traits are partially or fully expressed in females, and few studies have investigated the significance of such traits in natural populations. In the context of ISC, the present study investigates the significance of a male-typical secondary sexual character (conspicuous coloration) in a free-living female Ibiza Wall Lizards, Podarcis pityusensis, a species expressing striking color-diversity across its range and between the sexes. By manipulating lizard color, monitoring the effects of this manipulation on individuals’ behavior and reproductive success throughout the reproductive season, and measuring the heritability of color from parents to same and opposite-sex offspring, this study identifies sexually antagonistic selection which drived ISC over color expression in male and female lizards.
Dappen, N.B. (2011) -
Dappen, N.B. (2012) -
Selection on the same trait may differ between the sexes and among age groups as a result of sex- and age-specific strategies in reproduction and survival. Antagonistic selective pressures on traits shared between the sexes can lead to intralocus sexual conflict, which occurs when selection favors the expression of particular alleles in one sex, but disfavors the expression of those same alleles in the opposite sex. Similarly, antagonistic selection on traits shared among age groups, can lead to intralocus ontogenetic conflict, which occurs when selection favors the expression of particular alleles in one age group, but disfavors the expression of those same alleles in another agegroup. These two forms of conflict may result in individuals that deviate from their unique, sex- and age-specific optimal phenotypes. Display characters such as conspicuous coloration, may provide a prime example of this conflict because, while the reproductive benefits of expressing these traits are usually only realized by one sex (usually males) and at reproductive maturity, many of the costs of expressing these traits occur in both sexes and at all ages. In the context of intralocus sexual and ontogentic conflict, this dissertation investigates color evolution in the Ibiza wall lizard, Podarcis pityusensis, a lizard species the exhibits striking between sexes and among age-group color variation.
Dappen, N.B. & Losin, N. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2013) -
The Ibiza wall lizard is the symbol of the Pityusic-Archipelago, but what makes this colorful reptile so special? The Symbol: wall lizards of Ibiza and Formentera will take you on a journey into the culture, biology, ecology, and conservation of Ibiza and Formentera’s most iconic animal.
Darevska, I.S. (1978) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1946) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1953) -
Даревский И.С. (1953) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1955) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1957) -
Даревский И.С. (1957) -
Даревский, И.С. (1957) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1958) -
Даревский И.С. (1958) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1960) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1962) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1963) -
Даревский И.С. (1963) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1965) -
Даревский, И.С. (1965) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1966) -
The polymorphic species Lacerta saxicola Eversmann forms 19 distinct forms in the Caucasus, four of which (armeniaca, dahli, rostombekovi, and unisexualis) are devoid of males and normally reproduce parthenogenetically. These parthenogenetic forms inhabit the mountains on the periphery of the range of the normal bisexual form, L. s. defilippii, thus suggesting a case of geographic parthenogenesis. Since the populations of parthenogenetic lizards are virtually devoid of males, the application of geographic and physiological species criteria to them is a matter of some difficulty. A discussion of this situation with regard to the problem of so-called `agamic species` enables us to regard the parthenogenetic relatives of L. saxicola as distinct species rather than subspecies, and these forms are raised to that rank. The parthenogenetic form of L. s. defilippii is described as a separate species (L. unisexualis). Cytological studies have shown that parthenogenetic species of Rock Lizards are diploid (2n = 38) and that oogenesis proceeds similarly in parthenogenetic and bisexual forms up to the second meiotic division. In regions of sympatry the parthenogenetic and bisexual forms occasionally produce natural hybrids, resulting in sterile triploid (3n = 57) females, the sterility of which is caused by anomalies in the development and structure of the gonads. In the eggs laid by parthenogenetic females, peculiar abnormal embryos, which commonly die in an early stage of incubation, are often developed. Most of them prove to be males, the development of which stops approximately in the middle of incubation. There is reason to suppose that the transition of Rock Lizards to parthenogenesis is associated with natural interspecific hybridization, which in turn favors unisexual reproduction. This tendency could be realized under the influence of selection and apparently took place in forest refuges during Quaternary glaciation of the Caucasus. The transition of Rock Lizards to unisexual reproduction is shown to be accompanied by the appearance of morphologically and biologically distinct species. Natural parthenogenesis may thus be regarded as one of the factors of speciation in the L. saxicola group.
Darevsky, I.S. (1967) -
Four parthenogenetic subspecies of Lacerta . saxicola Eversmann (Transcaucasia) have closely overlapping sympatric ranges. The lizards show no intermediate forms in zones of their mutual habitat. On the border - line of their ranges parthenogenetic lizards can mate with males of neighbouring bisexual forms of Lacerta saxicola, producing hybrids that always are sterile triploid (3n=57) females. Therefore, application of geographical and physiological species criteria to parthenogenetic forms allows to regard them as independent species. However, geographical .and physiofogiical criteria are based on the effect of reproductive isolation mechanisms whose realization is possible upon the occurrence of both sexes in the population. Thus, both criteria should not be unconditionally applied to parthenogenetic and agamic species consisting of females alone. However, the absence of males also plays the role of a peculiar isolation mechanism which maintains the integrity of parthenogenetic species. Due to this, parthenogenetic forms of Lacerta saxicola Eversmann which can be easily distinguished in the morphological respect should be considered as independent agamic species: Lacertra armeniaca Meh., L. dahli Dar., L. rostombekovi Dar. and L. unisexualis Dar.
Darevsky, I.S. (1972) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1978) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1981) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1982) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1984) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1990) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1992) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1993) -
Darevsky, I.S. (1997) -
Darevsky, I.S. (2006) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Beutler, A (1981) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. (1968) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. (1969) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. (1977) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. (1979) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. (2001) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. & Rozanov Yu.M. & Sokolova, T.M. (1991) -
Даревский И.С., Даниелян Ф.Д., Розанов Ю.М. и Соколова Т.М. (1991) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. & Sokolova, T.M. & Rozanov, Y.M. (1989) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Eiselt, J. (1967) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Eiselt, J. (1980) -
Präsentation von Lacerta rudis svanetica ssp. nov. vom Südabfall der zentralen Kaukasus-Hauptkette in Nordwest-Grusinien einschließlich einer isolierten Population in Nordwest-Abchasien und von Lacerta parvula adjarica ssp. nov. von der türkischen Schwarzmeerküste samt ihrem Hinterland zwischen Trabzon und Batumi sowie im (Çoruh- (Tschoroch-)tal ab Borçka, in Adjarien und in den angrenzenden Gebieten Grusiniens zwischen Meria (SE Poti) und Borzomi; bei Bakuriani existiert ein isoliertes Vorkommen.
Darevsky, I.S. & Eiselt, J. & Lukina, G.P. (1984) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Gabriel, C.D. (1970) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Grechko, V.V. & Kupriyanova, L.A. (2009) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Kann, N.G. & Ryabinina, N.L. (1988) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Krasilnikov, E.N. (1965) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Kulikova, W.N. (1961) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Kulikova, W.N. (1962) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Kulikova, W.N. (1964) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Kupriyanova, L.A. (1982) -
It is known that karyotypes of parthenogenetic female and male Lacerta armeniaca are similar. This implies that the above males are most likely the results of hormonal inversion. A recently collected male L. armeniaca has also proved to be a diploid individual. This is supported by cytophotometrical measurement of the DNA content of somatic cells in both this male and the bisexual (Control) male of L. portschinskii Kessler, as well as by haploid number of Bivalents at metaphase 1. The DNA content of spermatids in the two males corresponds with the haploid level, and the presence of haploid spermatids argues for normal meiosis. Histological studies supported the above conclusions. The male L. armeniaca appeared to be fertile.
Darevsky, I.S. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Bakradze, M.A. (1977) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Bakradze, M.A. (1978) -
Males and intersexes sometimes occur in the progeny of parthenogenetic species of the genus Lacerta, but usually they die during embryogenesis. Their frequency in nature does not exceed 0.1%. Diploid chromosome complements in a male and an intersex of Lacerta armeniaca differ from the female karyotype by the presence of a heteromorphic pair of what are apparently sex chromosomes. These phenomena are discussed in connection with the hypothesis of relictual bisexuality in parthenogenetic species of lizards. All stages of spermatogenesis and mature spermatozoa were discovered in the testes of the male, without a strict order to the rows of maturing cells. The possibility of the existence of fertile males in natural populations of L. armeniaca is supported by the occurrence of natural hybrids between sympatric unisexual species and some other indirect data. The intersex examined, in addition to having hemipenes and testes, had well-developed oviducts. Also, the right gonad was an `ovotestis` consisting of a testis united to several oocytes. The evolutionary importance of fertile diploid males is the possibility of the formation (with their participation) of fertile triploid individuals and even the further transition to tetraploidy: i.e., the theoretical return to bisexuality on a polyploid level.
Darevsky, I.S. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Danielyan, F.D. (1986) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Uzzell, T. (1985) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Lukina, G.P. (1977) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Nguén, V.S. & K. Than (1986) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Roitberg, E.S. (1999) -
A new subspecies of Lacerta caucasica (s. str.), L. c. vedenica from the northern slope of the Andiiskii Ridge (SE Chechenia) is described. This population appears to be geographically isolated from the main range of L. caucasica, but contacts the northern limits of the range of a closely related species, L. daghestanica. It differs from the other populations of L. caucasica as well as from the related species, L. daghestanica and L. alpina by a very low number of superciliary granules and superciliary scales as well as by the lack of greenish paints in the dorsal coloration.
Darevsky, I.S. & Szczerbak, N.N. (1967) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Szczerbak, N.N. (1978) -
Eremias andersoni is a new species from Descht-i-Kevir desert (Iran). It differs from the closely related psammophile species E. fasciata, E. lineolata and E. scripta by the absence of uninterrupted rows of granules between frontal and frontoparietal shield.
Darevsky, I.S. & Szczerbak, N.N. & Peters, G. & Baranov, A.S. & Bulakhov, V.K. & Konstantinova, N.F. & Zharlova, V.K. & Turutina, L.V. & Okulova, N.M. & Lukina, G.P. & Kutuzova, V.A. & Simonyan, A.A. (1976) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Tuniyev, B.S. (1997) -
The re-examination of Lacerta clarkorum Darevsky et Vedmederja, 1977 type series as well as analysis of the recently collected new material may suggest that within the frames of Northeastern Turkey and neighboring region of Adzharistan within the Georgia, live two close allopatric species: Lacerta clarkorum proper and a new species Lacerta dryada sp. nov., whose description is made in this article. Evidence is provided on the distribution and comparative ecology of both species, their possible phylogenetic relation being discussed.
Darevsky, I.S. & Uzzell, T. & Kupriyanova, L.A: & Danielyan, F.D. (1973) -
Darevsky, I.S. & Vedmederja, W.I. (1977) -
Darkin, J. (2023) -
Darnet, E. (2013) -
Darvish, J. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2012) -
The reptile and mammals fauna of North-East of Iran were investigated and the contraction and fragmentation of some species due to climatic changes and human activities were analyzed. The sampling was carried out in selected stations throughout the Great Khorsan. The results showed that there are approximately 71 reptiles (including 39 species of lizards, 32 snakes and one turtle) and 83 species of mammals. The exact number of vulnerable and threatened reptile and mammal species in Khorasan provinces is not clear, but there are at least 33 reptiles and 10 mammals categorized as threatened species. The distribution and population size of some species has greatly changed during recent years, most probably as a result of recent global warming, i. e. temperature rise, decrease of precipitation, drought and human harmful activities. The human activity in this region, especially urbanization, agricultural activities and cutting of shrubs has caused fragmentation and serious decline of population size in some species and even elimination of some local endemic population of relict species. The conservation of mammals and reptiles in the North-East of Iran demands organized collaborations including education of native people for protection of valuable vertebrate faunae of the area.
Darvishnia, H. & Feizi, H. & Rajabizadeh, M. (2013) -
In this study, with habitat features, distribution, morphometric and meristic data relating to the 5 samples of subspecies Apathya cappadocica urmiana Lantz & Suchow, 1934, the new distribution model is presented in the west of Iranian plateau. These samples were collected during 2010-2013. Previously, the distribution range of this subspecies in the West Azarbaijan Province, was known from gorges on the west slope of the Urmia Lake. In this paper, this subspecies are also reported from province of Kurdistan, Kermanshah and Ilam, and therefore its distributional range is being extended to the south and west foothills of the Zagros Mountains and stop the distribution model in Ilam province to the south, the last limit distribution of this subspecies shown by topography and climate maps, and new information about the biology, distribution and morphology of this subspecies have been offers.
Darwish, H.K. (2000) -
In the present study a combination of laboratory and field enclosure experiments were carried out to investigate the sources of variation in growth rates among two elevationally distinct populations of the sand lizards, Acanthodactylus boskianus. Two experiments were conducted to identify the factors that explain the pattern of geographic variation of growth rates in this species. The hatchlings from the two elevation sites reared under identical laboratory conditioned grew at the same rate irrespective of their origin. This finding suggests that the observed differences in growth rate between these two populations were driven by environmental factors. On the other hand, the effect of site where hatchlings were reared was investigated by raising the hatchlings from high elevation site in outdoor enclosures located at low and high elevation sites. Lizards located in the high elevation site grew faster than lizard located at low one. This finding is consistent with the observed differences in growth between the natural populations inhabiting the two localities and emphasize that environmental factors may play a major role in explaining geographic variation in growth as an important parameter in life history traits.
Das, A. & Saikia, U. & Murthy, B.H.C.K. & Dey, S. & Dutta, S.K. (2009) -
An inventory of amphibian and reptiles from the Barail Wildlife Sanctuary and its surroundings, Cachar District, Assam, north-eastern India is presented here. A total of 23 species of amphibians and 45 species of reptiles have been recorded from the study area. The observations include new locality records and natural history information of poorly known species such as Tropidophorus assamensis and Eutropis quadricarinata. Besides recording members of currently recognized species complex, the study also documents few species that were either conferred to closely related species (e.g., Calotes cf. irawadi) or their species identity remain to be ascertained (e.g., Rhabdophis sp. and Amolops sp.). The sharp slope in the species accumulation curve from the present study indicates that species count will rise further with additional surveys.
Das, I. (1996) -
Das, I. & Dattagupta, B. (1997) -
Das, S. & Tripathy, B. & Deuti, K. (2019) -
Daszkiewicz, P. & Bauer, A.M. (2010) -
Datcharry, R. (2014) -
Dathe, F. (1984) -
Dathe, F. (1985) -
Dathe, H. (1964) -
Dathe, H. (1990) -
Daudin, A.M. (1802) -
Daudin, F.M. (1802) -
Dauphin-Villemant, C. & Leboulenger, F. & Vaudry, H. (1990) -
The variations of interrenal activity were investigated in captive female Lacerta vivipara submitted to artificial hibernation (4 months at 6“) and compared to data obtained in nonhibernating females. Plasma corticosterone levels reached 25 r&ml during the prehibemal period. During the first day following the transfer to cold conditions, an initial significant peak of plasma corticosterone was observed (up to 63 ng/ml). A second, more gradual, but also signiticant increase was observed thereafter and levels remained maximum during the two first months of artificial hibernation (75 ng/ml). The circulating levels of corticosterone then decreased gradually. At the time of transfer to warm conditions, a third significant peak of corticosterone was observed (up to 82 rng/ml). The minimal values (15 ng/ml) previously described during vitellogenesis were reached within 1 week. High corticosterone levels appeared to be actually related to the “hibernation state” since they were also observed in hibernating males and not in nonhibemating females. In order to explain the pattern of plasma corticosterone, variations of adrenal sensitivity to synthetic ACTH l-39 were examined in vitro, using a perifusion system technique. Surprisingly, ACTH-induced stimulation of corticosterone and aldosterone release was significantly reduced during hibemation, whatever the temperature of the perifusion bath (30 or 6”). Nevertheless, a fourfold increase in the half-life of injected tritiated corticosterone was observed during hibernation which likely contributes to maintain high levels of corticosterone despite a low production rate of the hormone.
Dauphin-Villemant, C. & Leboulenger, F. & Xavier, F. & Vaudry, H. (1990) -
Variations of adrenal activity were studied in captive viviparous females Lacerta vivipara, in relation to breeding activities. The study was restricted to the period of active life which includes both the phase of annual reproduction and a phase of sexual inactivity. Significant seasonal changes in plasma corticosterone levels were measured with a peak during the second half of gestation followed by an abrupt fall at parturition. No significant variations in plasma aldosterone levels were observed. A limited extraovarian production of progesterone was detected which might be of adrenal origin. The half-life of injected tritiated corticosterone was not longer in pregnant than in nonreproductive females, suggesting that the peak of circulating corticosterone in pregnant females corresponds to an increase in the production rate of the hormone. The functional importance of the pituitary-adrenal axis was demonstrated in vivo: plasma corticosteroid levels dropped to the detection limit after adenohypophysectomy. Seasonal variations of adrenal sensitivity to synthetic ACTH 1–39 were examined in vitro, using a perifusion system. No significant variations were observed throughout the period of active life. These results suggest that the peak of plasma corticosterone during gestation can be ascribed to activation of the pituitary-adrenal axis. Experimental modifications of circulating corticosterone level during late gestation altered the timing of parturition, thus indicating that the fall of corticosterone just before term may be involved in the process of parturition in the female L. vivipara.
Dauphin-Villemant, C. & Xavier, F. (1987) -
This work was designed to study nychthemeral variations of plasma corticosterone and aldosterone in captive female lizards Lacerta vivipara. In preliminary experiments, the possible alterations of plasma corticosteroids by various stress factors were researched. A prolonged blood sampling (up to 8 min) did not alter plasma corticosterone levels but a significant increase of plasma aldosterone levels was observed. Confinement (1 or 18 hr) in small individual cages before blood collection resulted in a significant increase of both corticosterone and aldosterone. Whatever the period investigated (vitellogenesis, gestation, 2 months after parturition), plasma corticosterone levels showed a unimodal daily rhythm correlated with the activity of the females in the laboratory. No shift of the peak was observed according to season but the mean minimal and maximal levels were lower during vitellogenesis than during the other periods tested. Nychthemeral variations of plasma aldosterone levels were similar to those of corticosterone but of lower amplitude. Adrenal response to a short confinement (less than 1 hr) before blood sampling varied during a 24-hr period (period tested: vitellogenesis). Only minimal levels of corticosteroids were significantly increased. The possible effects of a long duration of captivity under optimal thermal conditions are discussed.
Dauth, J. (1981) -
Dauth, J. (1983) -
Dauth, J. (1986) -
`Death-shaking` as a behaviour-pattern is mostly known from the Carnivora /Seitz, 1950;Eibl-Eibesfeldt. 1950; Tembroek, 1958; Heimburger, 1961; Leyhausen, 1965/and carnivorous marsupials /Ewer, 1968/. It is also known from reptiles /Honegger and Heusser, 1969; Hemmer and Sohipp, 1970; Luttenberger, 1977/ but it is only mentioned very superficially and in some cases even incorrectly. Weber /1957/ and Honegger and Heusser /1969/ suppose a fixed connection between seizing the prey and shaking; Do- broruka and Horaekova /1973/ describe vertical shaking in the genus Lacerta. Only Luttenberger /1977/ analysed `death-shaking`, in Dracaena guianensis, bya slow-motion film. No author defines the different elements of the motion; nothing is known about re- leasing factors or effects /`functions`/ of `death-shaking`, and nowhere is `death-sha- king` exactly defined. This paper now will discuss these aspects
Davenport, J. & Dellinger, T. (1995) -
Davies, R. & Davies, V. (1998) -
Davies, R.S. (1984) -
Dávila, J.C. & Andreu, M.J. & Real, M.Á. & Puelles, L. & Guirado, S. (2002) -
The present work is an analysis of the afferent projections to the thalamic nucleus rotundus in a lizard, both at the light- and electron-microscopic level, using biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) as a neuroanatomical tracer. This study has confirmed previously reported afferent projections to nucleus rotundus in reptiles and has also identified a number of new cellular aggregates projecting to this dorsal thalamic nucleus. After BDA injections into nucleus rotundus, retrogradely labelled neurons were observed consistently within the following neuronal groups in the midbrain and the diencephalon: (i) the stratum griseum centrale of the optic tectum; (ii) the nucleus subpretectalis in the pretectum; (iii) the nucleus ansa lenticularis posterior, the posterior nucleus of the ventral supraoptic commissure, and the posteroventral nucleus, in the dorsal thalamus and (iv) the lateral suprachiasmatic nucleus and part of the reticular complex in the ventral thalamus. Tectal axons entering nucleus rotundus were fine and varicose and formed exclusively asymmetric synaptic contacts, mainly on small dendritic profiles. Rotundal neurons had symmetric synapses made by large boutons probably of nontectal origin. After comparing our results with those in other reptiles, birds and mammals, we propose that the sauropsidian nucleus rotundus forms part of a visual tectofugal pathway that conveys mesencephalic visual information to the striatum and dorsal ventricular ridge, and is similar to the mammalian colliculo-posterior/intralaminar–striatoamygdaloid pathway, the function of which may be to participate in visually guided behaviour.
Dávila, J.C. & Guirado, S. & Puelles, L. (2000) -
This work is a study of the distribution pattern of calbindin-D28k, calretinin, and parvalbumin in the diencephalic alar plate of a reptile, the lizard Psammodromus algirus, by using the prosomeric model (Puelles [1995] Brain Behav Evol 46:319–337), which divides the alar plate of the diencephalon into the caudorostrally arranged pretectum (p1), dorsal thalamus plus epithalamus (p2), and ventral thalamus (p3). Calbindin and calretinin are more extensively expressed in the dorsal thalamus than in the neighboring alar regions, and therefore these calcium-binding proteins are particularly suitable markers for delimiting the dorsal thalamus/epithalamus complex from the ventral thalamus and the pretectum. Conversely, parvalbumin is more intensely expressed in the pretectum and ventral thalamus than in the dorsal thalamus/epithalamus complex. Within the dorsal thalamus, calciumbinding protein immunoreactivity reveals a three-tiered division. The pretectum displays the most intense expression of parvalbumin within the diencephalon. Virtually all nuclei in the three sectors of the pretectum (commissural, juxtacommissural, and precommissural) present strong to moderate expression of parvalbumin. We compare the distribution of calcium-binding proteins in the diencephalon of Psammodromus with other vertebrates, with mammals in particular, and suggest that the middle and ventral tiers of the reptilian dorsal thalamus may be comparable to nonspecific or plurimodal posterior/intralaminar thalamic nuclei in mammals, on the basis of the calcium-binding protein expression patterns, as well as the hodological and embryological data in the literature.
Davis, C. (2003) -
Davletbakov, A.T. & Kustareva, L.A. & Milko, D.A. & Ostastshenko, A.N. & Sagymbaev, S.S. & Toropov, S.A. & Trotchenko, N.V. (2015) -
The Cadastre of the Genetical Fund is the of cial directory on biodiversity – the annotated check-list of living creatures registered on the territory of the country, re ecting the current state of the biotic inventory. The present volume IV is devoted to the chordates and contains general distributional data about representatives of ve classes of vertebrate animals: ray- nned shes (Actinopterygii), amphibians (Amphibia), reptiles (Reptilia), birds (Aves), and mammals (Mammalia). This volume completes the national faunal inventory (the check-list of all invertebrate animals is presented in volumes II and III). In total, there are listed 602 species (with all local subspecies) represents 325 genera belongs to 119 families. There are also included 14 species doubtfully recorded in Kyrgyzstan, and 36 species names are expunged from faunal list. Each taxon name is supplied with the main synonymy, most accepted Russian, Kyrgyz, and English names. Data on current distribution within Kyrgyzstan and endemicity level are provided for each species (subspecies), as well as main references. The guide book also contains 74 color photographs in the annex. It is destined for experts in ecology, zoologists, specialists and employers of the institutions for the management of the natural resources, nature conservation and biological education.
Davoyan, A.G. & Aslanyan, A.V. & Danielyan, F.D. & Darevsky, I.S. & Martirosyan I.A. (2007) -
Locus-specific PCR was used to study the genetic polymorphism in three populations of parthenogenetic lizard species Darevskia dahli. The analysis was carried at the two (GATA) n -containing loci (Du215 and Du281) using the sample of 26 individuals. A total of eight Du215 and three Du281 allelic variants were detected. It was demonstrated that all the lizards examined were heterozygous at these loci. In 12 animals, unusual Du215 allelic variant was revealed, the origin of which was thought to be associated with different types of genomic rearrangements, or segmental duplication. The populations studied were substantially different relative to the levels of allelic polymorphism, which could be explained by different habitation conditions, leading to accumulation of mutations in noncoding genome regions.
Давоян А.Г., Асланян А.В., Даниелян Ф.Д., Даревский И.С., Мартиросян И.А. (2007) -
Локус-специфическая ПЦР использована для определения генетического полиморфизма в трех популяциях партеногенетического вида ящериц Darevskia dahli. Анализ проведен на выборке 26 особей по двум class=`txr-`>(class=`txr-`>GATA)class=`txi-x-x-70`>n-содержащим локусам (Du215 и Du281). Обнаружено восемь аллельных вариантов по локусу Du215 и три по локусу Du281. Показано, что все исследованные особи гетерозиготны по этим локусам. У 12 особей по локусу Du215 обнаружен необычный аллельный вариант, происхождение которого может быть связано с различными типами геномной реорганизации или сегментной дупликации. Выявлены значительные различия по уровню аллельного полиморфизма между исследованными популяциями, что может объясняться различными экологическими условиями обитания популяций, приводящими к накоплению мутаций в некодирующей области генома.
Dawydow, K.N. (1898) -
Day, L.B. & Crews, D. & Wilczynski, W. (1999) -
Environmental demands that require intensive search for mates, food and nest sites are correlated with efficient spatial memory in many mammalian and avian species. This convergence of evidence has led to the view that spatial memory, and the neurological structures associated with it, have been selected in niches that require memory for the location of goal objects. Whether such evolutionary demands are also correlated with nonspatial abilities that require flexible use of associations similar to those required for spatial memory has not been well studied. In addition, correlations between niche types and the use of spatial or nonspatial memory have not been investigated in nonmammalian, nonavian taxa. In this study, we investigated the relationship between foraging strategies and performance on two tasks, one spatial and the other nonspatial, in congeneric lizard species:Acanthodactylus boskianus, an active forager that collects clumped sedentary prey,Acanthodactylus scutellatus, a sit-and-wait predator that collects distributed mobile prey. The two species did not differ in their performance of a spatial memory task, butA. boskianus, the active forager, performed better on the reversal of a visual discrimination, a nonspatial task. These findings question the generality of the spatial adaptation model for vertebrates. We present the pliancy hypothesis, which we developed to account for these results.
de la Cruz Gutiérrez, F. (2023) -
Studies of the effects on insularity on the design of animal signals are scarce, particularly in lizards. Here we use Lilford’s wall lizard from Dragonera (Podarcis lilfordi gigliolii) to ask how insularity has affected its repertoire of social signals relative to mainland Podarcis. We focused on two visual signals shared by many Podarcis: UVblue patches (UBP) and visual displays. The latter include foot shakes and the raised body displays used to expose the UBP. We examined if the number or spectral characteristics of the UBP are associated with morphological traits related to individual quality. We also used visual models to measure sexual dichromatism in the UBP. We did not observe foot shakes or any other visual displays. The UBP did not covary with body condition or fighting ability in males, suggesting that this coloration does not signal individual quality. We also found very little sexual dichromatism, females having malelike UBP. We hypothesize that this pattern of reduced social signaling is due to the high population density of P. lilfordi gigliolii, which discourages territorial behavior and promotes extreme social tolerance, making most social signals unnecessary.
de La Cruz, F. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. (2023) -
Studies of the effects of insularity on animal signals are scarce, particularly in lizards. Here, we use Lilford’s wall lizard from Dragonera (Podarcis lilfordi gigliolii) to ask how island conditions have affected its repertoire of social signals, focusing on two visual signals shared by many Podarcis species: ultraviolet (UV)–blue-reflecting ventrolateral colour patches and visual displays. We examined whether the number or spectral characteristics of the UV–blue patches are associated with traits related to individual quality. We also used visual models to assess visual conspicuousness and to measure sexual dichromatism. We did not observe foot shakes or any other visual displays usually found in continental Podarcis. We found that none of the UV–blue patch variables covaried with morphometric variables indicative of fighting ability or body condition in males, suggesting that this coloration does not signal individual quality. We also found very little sexual dichromatism. In particular, the UV–blue patches of females seem over-expressed and more similar to those of males than those of continental Podarcis. Ancestral state reconstruction reveals that the lack of sexual dimorphism in the UV–blue patches is a derived condition for P. lilfordi gigliolii and other Podarcis living on small islands. Our results thus show a pattern of reduced social signalling in P. lilfordi gigliolii relative to mainland Podarcis, with some signals being lost or under-expressed (visual displays) and others losing their signalling function (UV–blue patches). We hypothesize that these changes are attributable to the high population density of P. lilfordi gigliolii, which discourages territorial behaviour and promotes extreme social tolerance, making most social signals unnecessary. More work will be needed to determine whether this is a common pattern in lizards inhabiting small and densely populated islands.
Deakin, J. & Ezaz, T. (2019) -
Studies of reptile (nonavian reptiles) chromosomes began well over a century ago (1897) with the initial report on the description of sand lizard ( Lacerta agilis ) chromosomes. Since then, chromosome analysis in reptiles has contributed significantly to understanding chromosome evolution in vertebrates. Reptile karyotypes are also unique, as being the only vertebrate group where the majority of the species possess variable numbers of macro- and microchromosomes, which was first reported for iguanids and teiids in 1921. In addition, many reptiles have microchromosomes as sex chromosomes, highlighting their evolutionary significance, yet very little is known about their evolutionary origin and significance in shaping amniote genomes. Advances in genomic technologies in recent years have accelerated our capacity to understand how sequences are arranged within a genome. However, genomic and cytogenetic analyses have been combined for only 3 species to provide a deeper understanding of reptile chromosome evolution and sequence organization. In this review, we highlight how a combined approach of cytogenetic analysis and sequence analysis in reptiles can help us answer fundamental questions of chromosome evolution in reptiles, including evolution of microchromosomes and sex chromosomes.
Dear, R. (2014) -
Decaux, C. (1896) -
Decaux, C. (1897) -
Decock, H. (2014) -
Deem, V. (2015) -
Global climate change is altering the ecology of organisms across all major biomes and is likely to contribute to a rapidly increasing number of species extinctions. The effects of climate change are further exacerbated in fragmented landscapes, where isolated populations are known to be losing genetic diversity. This loss of genetic diversity is thought to impact the physiological flexibility (termed `plasticity`) that a species needs to survive the warmer, more fluctuating temperatures that are associated with global climate change. In this study we examined the thermal plasticity of adult male Aegean wall lizards (Podarcis erhardii, Lacertidae) occurring on Cycladic land bridge islands (Aegean Sea, Greece). Populations were sampled from three different size islands ranging from 0.01 km2 to 448 km2. Previous studies have shown that P. erhardii exhibits a predictable gradient in genetic diversity correlating with island area and time since isolation. After collection, lizards were acclimated under identical thermal lab conditions for three weeks after which lizards were divided into control and treatment groups. Treatment groups were subjected to an elevated temperature regime for three weeks corresponding to local conditions under a warming climate while control groups were left under the initial cooler lab conditions. Thermal preference (Tp) and critical thermal maximum (CTmax) were quantified after the initial three week lab acclimation period and then again after a three week experimental manipulation period. Changes in these parameters were then used as measures of thermal plasticity. Overall conclusions from this study indicate that (i.) P. erhardii has surprisingly rigid thermal preferences, and (ii.) level of genetic impoverishment is not related to the extent of thermal plasticity in the species. Understanding how global warming might impact reptile populations isolated in fragmented landscapes will be critically important for evaluating a population’s extinction risk and aid in guiding appropriate management decisions.
Deem, V. & Hedman, H. (2014) -
Degan, M. & Alibardi, L. (2023) -
Tail regeneration in lizards derives from the formation of a regenerative blastema. Numerous snoRNAs exclusively up-regulated in the regenerating tail but absent in the scarring limb of the lizard Podarcis muralis have been detected suggesting they are key genes for regeneration. While most snord-, snora- and scarna-RNAs are activators of protein synthesis and cell proliferation (oncogenes) some may also be tumour suppressors. A tail blastema of 2–3 mm in length consists of proliferating mesenchymal cells, fibroblasts and keratinocytes with active nucleoli, rosette-patterned ribosomes and few rough endoplasmic cisternae. In few days, the blastema grows into a new tail indicating intense protein synthesis within this short period. A quantitative RT-PCR analysis of snord87, snord26, snord74, snora63, scarna11, U2 and U4 shows that, aside snord87, the other ncRNAs are up-regulated, particularly, U2, U4 and scarna11. These ncRNAs might regulate the rate of production of ribosomes from the nucleolus (snora- and snord-RNAs), the splicing process (snord- and scarna-RNAs, U2 and U4), the speed of protein synthesis (snora- and snord-RNAs) and cell proliferation in the blastema. These non-coding-RNAs are hypothesized to intensify the production of more functional ribosomes that accelerate the rate of protein synthesis and rapid growth of the blastema into a new tail.
Degen, E. (1911) -
Dehaut, E.-G. (1911) -
Dehaut, E.-G. & Landon, F.-J. (1950) -
Dehgani, A. & Karamiani, R. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Banan-Khojasteh, S.M. (2016) -
The Arasbaran Protected Area is a forested and mountainous area, which is located in northern part of East Azerbaijan province and bordered to the north by Armenia and Azerbaijan and southern Aras River of the Iranian Plateau confined to 38°40` to 39°08`N and 46°39` to 47°02`E. A study on the status of Sauria in this area was carried out from June to September 2011 and 2013. A total of 141 specimens were collected and identified, which represented four families, 11genera, and 12 species and subspecies, including collected Agamidae: Paralaudakia caucasia, Phrynocephalus persicus, Trapelus lessonae, Anguidae: Pseudopus apodus, Lacertidae: Darevskia raddeii, Iranolacerta brandtii, Eremias strauchi, Lacerta media, Lacerta strigata, Ophisops elegans and Scincidae: Eumeces schneideri Ablepharus bivittatus. The Lacertidae with six species, showed the highest diversity among the families represented here. In this study a new locality was found for Lacerta strigata 30 km north of kalibar, in the Arasbaran.
سید مهدی بانان خجسته امیر دهقانی، رسول کرمیانی،، نصراله رستگار-پویانی، (1396) -
ارسباران یک منطقه کوهستانی با کوههای دارای شیب تند و جنگلی است که در شمال استان آذربایجانشرقی و در همسایگی کشور های جمهوری آذربایجان، ارمنستان و جنوب رود ارس، در محدوده `۴۴ ۳۳° تا `۳ °۳3 شمالی و`۳3 °۴1 تا `۲ °۴۴ شرقی واقع شده است. در طی مطالعه و نمونهبرداری فون خزندگان منطقه ارسباران که از تیر ماه سال 3۴ تا تیر سال 3۲ انجام شد. مجموعا۱۴۱ نمونه از ۴ خانواده، ۱۱ جنس و ۱۲ گونه و زیر گونه سوسمار جمعآوری و شناسایی شد. که این نمونهها شامل: Paralaudakia caucasia, Phrynocephalus persicus, Trapelus lessonae, Anguidae: Pseudopus apodus, Lacertidae: Darevskia raddeii, Iranolacerta brandtii, Eremias strauchi, Lacerta media, Lacerta strigata, Ophisops elegans and Scincidae: Eumeces schneideri, Ablepharus bivittatus که در بین اینها خانواده سرتیده با 1 گونه با ترین تنوع را نشان میدهد و گونه Darevskia raddeii بیشترین پراکنش را دارد. در این مطالعه گونه Lacerta strigata برای اولین بار از
Dehghani, A. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Banan-Khojasteh, S.M. & Mohammadpour, A. (2014) -
We examined sexual size dimorphism of the rock-dwelling lizard Darevskia raddei (Boettger, 1892) with the help of 30 specimens that were provided from various sources. Eleven metric and seven meristic features were examined. Seven characters (gulars, length of basal tail, femoral pores, length of head, width of head, length of fore limb and length of hind limb) were identified as dimorphic between the two sexes. Some of these characters have important roles in copulation for males, especially the hind limb and the tail base. The number of femoral pores is important in the release of signal components because females release these components to attract males during the mating season. The length of the hind limb as locomotor performance plays an important role during mating, so that the male can grasp the female and adopt the correct position during copulation.
Dehghani, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Mahdi Banan-Khojasteh, S. & Mohammadpour, A. (2014) -
In this article we present the effects of waste water of the Sungun copper mine on Darevskia raddei habitat in the Arasbaran protected region, a UNESCO registered biosphere reserve since 1976, and appeal to the Department of Environment of East Azarbaijan province to more consideration on control and precautions regarding the water waste of the Sungun mine.
Dehne, A. (2021) -
As part of a natural history trip to the island of Lanzarote, it was possible to visit, among other things, a gray shrike’s spit-ground (Lanius excubitor koenigi) in a mastic bush (Pistacia lentiscus) of a garden. Severel cranial skeletons of Gallotia a. atlantica were discovered and photografically documented. A total of eight lizard skulls were counted, where further skulls are suspected in the upper area of the shrub.
Deichsel, G. (2004) -
Deichsel, G. (2008) -
Deichsel, G. (2009) -
Deichsel, G. (2013) -
Deichsel, G. (2014) -
Deichsel, G. (2015) -
Deichsel, G. (2016) -
Deichsel, G. (2018) -
Deichsel, G. (2019) -
In einer retrospektiven Durchsicht des Datenmaterials von 41 zeckenbefallenen Eidechsen zeigt sich in der Paarungszeit bei männlichen Tieren eine deutlich höhere Zeckenlast als bei weiblichen. Außerhalb der Paarungszeit ist die Zeckenlast bei beiden Geschlechtern annähernd gleich. Der Unterschied wird erklärt durch die höhere Bewegungsaktivität von Männchen in der Paarungszeit im Vergleich zu Weibchen. Dadurch sind Männchen einem höheren Risiko ausgesetzt, auf wirtsuchende Zecken zu treffen.
Während eines Aufenthaltes in einem ehemaligen Gutshof aus dem 18. Jahrhundert, ca. 20 km nordwestlich von Siena, Ende August 2019 konnte ich die dort siedelnden Podarcis muralis nigriventris und P. siculus campestris beobachten. Podarcis muralis war ubiquitär mit einer Präferenz der Höhe (Mauern aller Art, Eichenstämme, Hecken) zu beobachten, während sich P. siculus bodennah (Rasenflächen, Parkplätze, Böschungen) auf Stein- und Holzstrukturen aufhielt und allenfalls kniehohe Mauern besetzte. Bevorzugt setzte P. siculus Kot auf isolierten Steinstrukturen ab. In Analogie zu den experimentellen Untersuchungen an P. melliselensis von BAECKENS et al. (2019) könnte dieses Verhalten der innerartlichen Kommunikation dienen.
Zwei Bilder mit allochthonen jungen Mauereidechsen Podarcis muralis maculiventris der Südalpenlinie werden kommentiert. Schlüpflinge separieren sich von den Mauern, die von Adulttieren besetzt werden, in ein Wiesengelände. Sie nutzen die spärlichen Sonnenplätze dort gemeinsam, gelegentlich sogar mit Körperkontakt. Tiere aller Altersklassen teilen sich Hibernacula in Hohlräumen hinter Stützmauern. Diese Überwinterungsgemeinschaften bleiben nach der Winterruhe noch eine Zeitlang zusammen. Ein adultes Paar mit acht Jungtieren unterschiedlichen Alters vor einem Hibernaculum wird sentimental als “Familie” interpretiert.
Deichsel, G. (2020) -
A witness reports the release of 100 Western Green Lizards Lacerta bilineata, originating from the canton of Ticino, Switzerland in the early 1950ies. The place of release is a residence area with garden-surrounded houses at Hasenberg Mountain within the city limits of Stuttgart, Germany. A permanent population established itself, remained undetected until 1996 and is meanwhile observed by the public. The area was formerly inhabited by Sand Lizards Lacerta agilis who vanished ca. 1970. The present accompanying reptile fauna consists of Slow Worms Anguis fragilis and Smooth Snakes Coronella austriaca. Since 2017 Common Wall Lizards are observed, phenotypically assigned to Podarcis muralis maculiventris of the Southern Alps lineage.
Deichsel, G. & A. Mangold (2021) -
Deichsel, G. & Ansermet, M. (2012) -
Deichsel, G. & Bischoff, W. (2002) -
Deichsel, G. & Gist, D.H. (2001) -
Deichsel, G. & Gleed-Owen, C.P. & Mayer, W. (2007) -
Deichsel, G. & Kwet, A. & Consul, A. (2011) -
In Stuttgart there is a strikingly broad phenotypic heterogeneity of common wall lizards, giving rise to the suggestion that the various locations are occupied by alien common wall lizards of different origins. Hence we investigated important sites where such lizards occur in the period between 2007–2010. The purpose of our investigations was to gather data on the genetic origins of Stuttgart’s common wall lizards. We took tissue samples from twenty animals and determined their haplotypes by means of mtDNA analysis. We found that western city quarters are inhabited by P. m. maculiventris (Western or synonymously Southern Alps lineage) and central city quarters by P. m. brongniardii/merremius (Eastern France lineage, normal type). In the Neckar valley there is a series of mixed populations of these haplotypes and in addition of P. m. brongniardii/merremius (Eastern France lineage, Languedoc type), P. m. maculiventris (Eastern or synonymously Venetian lineage) and of P. m. nigriventris (Tuscany lineage). We present the history of introduction and the dynamics of secondary expansion based on the information available to us. Where respective data is missing we offer and discuss hypotheses on these issues.
Deichsel, G. & Laufer, H. & Schulte, U. (2011) -
Deichsel, G. & Laufer, H. & Schulte, U. (2012) -
Deichsel, G. & Miller, L.M. (2000) -
Deichsel, G. & Nafis, G. & Hakim, J. (2010) -
Deichsel, G. & Pieh, A. & Passarge, H. (2021) -
Remarks on Common Wall Lizards Podarcis muralis s.l. (LAURENTI, 1768) in northwestern districts of the city of Stuttgart, Germany Tendencies of their expansion and hybridizations, effects on populations of the Sand Lizard Lacerta agilis LINNAEUS, 1758 and considerations for managing alien Wall LizardsWe report occurrences of the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis s.l.) in the previously uninvestigated city districts of Feuerbach, Weilimdorf and Botnang in northwestern Stuttgart, Germany. New insights on known occurrences in adjacent city districts, already reported by DEICHSEL (2011) and SCHULTE et al. (2008, 2011), are added. With no exception, Stuttgart occurrences of P. m. brongniardii of the Eastern-France lineage, P. m. maculiventris-West of the Southern-Alps lineage, and P. m. nigriventris of the Tuscany lineage, and hybrids of these lineages with each other, are alien. In accordance with SCHULTE et al. (2021), BLANKE & LORENZ (2019), and with Flora-Fauna-Habitat Guidelines of the European Commission (February 2007), we urgently discourage the translocation of alien Wall Lizards in Stuttgart. The expansion potential and assertiveness of these alien animals may be detrimental to ecosystems, and sequelae cannot be corrected.
Deichsel, G. & Rutschke, J. & Koepe, D. & Oefinger, P. & Oefinger, B. (2002) -
Deichsel, G. & Schulte, U. (2011) -
Deichsel, G. & Schulte, U. (2015) -
Bis zum Redaktionsschluss waren uns 25 Vorkommen allochthoner Mauereidechsen in Baden-Württemberg bekannt, die alle im Bereich mit den Eckpunkten Mannheim – Stuttgart – Ulm – Insel Mainau im Bodensee –Lörrach – Freiburg – Mannheim liegen, wobei die Gebiete um Mannheim, Stuttgart, Lörrach und Freiburg Häufungspunkte verschiedener genetischer Linien darstellen. An zwei Fundstellen siedeln ausschließlich ausgesetzte Tiere der Ostfranzösischen-Linie (P. m. brongniardii), an weiteren sieben Lokalitäten nur Tiere der Südalpen-Linie (P. m. maculiventris-West), von denen drei nachgewiesenermaßen auf Aussetzungen zurückgehen und vier vermutlich auf unbeabsichtigte Verschleppungen. Die restlichen 16 Vorkommen umfassen mehrere genetische Linien mit unterschiedlichen Einwanderungswegen – außer den genannten die Unterlinie „Languedoc“ der Ostfranzösischen-Linie, die Westfranzösische- (jeweils P. m. bringniardi), die Venetien-Linie (P. m. maculiventris-Ost) sowie die Toskana- und Romagna-Linie (jeweils P. m. nigriventris). Insbesondere an Standorten entlang der Bahnlinie am Oberrheingraben kommt es zu Hybridisierungen allochthoner Linien untereinander, als auch zwischen allochthonen und der heimischen Ostfranzösischen-Linie (SCHULTE et al. 2012, SCHULTE et al. 2015a) und ein weiteres solches Hybridisierungsergebnis wird für einen anderen Standort vermutet. An sechs Standorten allochthoner Mauereidechsen wured Sympatrie bzw. Syntopie mit der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) beobachtet. Unter Berücksichtigung von Beobachtungen zur Verdrängung autochthiner Lacertiden durvch allochthone Mauereidechsen außerhalb Baden-Württembergs diskutieren wir diesen potenziellen Gefährdungsfaktor an diesen Standorten.
Deichsel, G. & Schulte, U. & Beninde, J. (2015) -
Mit dieser Bildserie wollen wir die Diversität von Hybriden der Mauereidechse veranschaulichen und deutlich machen, dass die Beurteilung der Hybridstatus von Mauereidechsen aufgrund phänotypischer Merkmale allein schwierig und oft nur spekulativ möglich ist.
With this series of images we want to demonstrate the diversity of hybrids of the Common Wall Lizard, stressing that an assessment of the hybrid statuses of Wall Lizards based on phenotypic characteristics alone is difficult and often only possible in a speculative way.
Deichsel, G. & Schweiger, S. (2004) -
Deichsel, G. & Walker, Z. (2010) -
Deichsel, G. & Werner, G. (2011) -
Deimezis-Tsikoutas, A. & Kaskanea-Efthymiou, C. & Pafilis, P. (2018) -
Dékány, B. & Kövér, S. & Babocsay, G. (2015) -
Loss of natural habitats renders conservation of species in urban environments important. For suc¬cessful conservation, however, we need to understand which factors influence the urban distribution of a particular species. The aim of our study was to reveal the most important factors that influence the distribution of Podarcis muralis in Budapest. Using maps on www.herpterkep.hu we designated 18 study sites that we assigned to five habitat categories. Our methodology followed the protocol of the National Biodiversity Monitoring System of Hungary. Observations were made at five occasions in the summer and autumn of 2013. We recorded sex, age (juvenile, subadult, adult) of the lizards, structural diversity of the habitats, number of hideouts, the extent of human disturbance and the presence of predators along transects. We observed altogether 539 lizards. Linear model was used to uncover the relationship between environmental factors and the observed number of lizards. The presence of predators had a negative while basaltic track bed and leaf litter had a positive effect on the population density of lizards. The structural diversity of the habitats correlated positively with the number of adults and females. We observed the largest density of lizards along railways. The ba¬saltic ballast shoulders of railroads serve as intricate networks of hideouts, while provide ideal plots for basking. They usually covered with leaf litter and a wide diversity of vegetation that provides superior sites for egg laying and hunting. Our results show that even Podarcis muralis that is prone to live in highly urban environments needs diverse, semi-natural elements in its habitat to maintain viable populations.
A természetes élőhelyek elvesztésével egyre nagyobb jelentősége van a biodiverzitás települési környezetben történő megőrzésének. Ehhez azonban ismernünk kell az egyes fajok városi elterjedését befolyásoló tényezőket. Vizsgálatunkban arra kerestük a választ, hogy melyek azok a környezeti tényezők, amelyek a fali gyík (Podarcis muralis) budapesti elterjedését befolyásolják. A www.herpterkep.mme.hu segítségével 18 mintavételi helyet jelöltünk ki. Az adatgyűjtés 2013- ban történt, mintavételi területenként 5 alkalommal. Az alábbiakat rögzítettük: ivar, kor (juvenilis, szubadult, adult), a búvóhelyek relatív sűrűsége, az emberi zavarás mértéke, környezeti szerkezeti diverzitás, ragadozók jelenléte. Összesen 539 egyedet észleltünk. Lineáris modellel vizsgáltuk az egy méterre eső észlelések és a környezeti változók kapcsolatát. A ragadozók jelenléte negatív, míg a búvóhelyeken belül a bazaltköves vasúti töltések és az avar jelenléte pozitív hatást gyakorolt az egyedsűrűségre. A környezeti szerkezeti diverzitás az adult egyedekre és a nőstények egyedszámá- ra hatott pozitívan. Az élőhelytípusok közül a vasútvonalak környezete bizonyult a legjobbnak. A bazaltköves vasúti töltések búvóhelyként szolgálnak a fali gyíkoknak, és helioterm életmódjukhoz is ideális környezetet nyújtanak. A töltések széle többnyire fás, bokros, lágyszárú- és avarborítás- sal, ideális táplálkozó és szaporodó helyek a fali gyíkok számára. Urbanizálódó hajlama ellenére azonban a fali gyík is igényli a változatos szerkezetű, természetes elemekkel jellemezhető városi élőhelyeket.
Delauge, J. & Bourrelly, M. (2020) -
Delaugerre, M. (1983) -
Delaugerre, M. (1988) -
Delaugerre, M. & Brunstein, D. & (1987) -
Delaugerre, M. & Cheylan, M. (1992) -
Delaugerre, M. & Cheylan, M. (2012) -
Delaugerre, M. & Gautier, D. & Roger, R. & Thibault, J.C. (2017) -
Delaugerre, M. & Grita, F. & Lo Cascio, P. & Ouni, R. (2012) -
Lizards and Eleonora’s falcon occur on many Mediterranean islets. Data given in literature and new observations concerning their asymmetrical interactions, which have been reviewed and illustrated, allow to regard those as a commensal relationship typical on these micro-insular ecosystems. Some considerations on the ecological, ecomorphological and phenological traits involved on this commensalism are also briefly discussed.
Delfino, M. (2001) -
Delfino, M. & Villa, A. & Georgalis, G. & Tschopp, E. (2016) -
The fossil record offers the only direct evidence concerning the spatial and chronological dimensions of the evolutionary processes occurred in the past. However, completeness of the record and its knowledge does not always allow researchers to have precise enough information to provide accurate evolutionary scenarios and support the calibration of molecular phylogenies. As far as Mediterranean lizards (here considered as non-snake squamates) are concerned, the main obstacle to the study of the fossil record is the poor knowledge of the osteology of extant taxa, in particular their postcranial skeleton, combined with the apparent osteological uniformity of certain clades (e.g., Podarcis). Conversely, the record itself is relatively good: limiting the analysis to the Neogene and Quaternary, the time window that saw the origin and development of the Mediterranean Basin, Europe currently offers more the 2600 taxon/locality data, whereas only few dozen pertain to the rest of the area surrounding the Basin. What do all these data tell us? Are they all from extinct taxa? How many of them really pertain to Mediterranean lizards? Were the lizard assemblages of the three main European peninsulas always taxonomically diverse? What about the evolution of the insular taxa? How can we improve our knowledge of the roots of the Mediterranean lizards, and those of the non-European ones in particular?
Delft, J. van & Creemers, R. (2000) -
Delft, J. van & Odé, B. & Gmelig Meijling, A. & Sparrius, L. & Boomsluiter, M. & Veling, K. & Hollander, H. & Kalkman, V. & Kleunen, A. van & Beelen, P. & Woerkom, M. van (2015) -
Delft, J. van & Spikmans, F. (2016) -
Delft, J.J.C.W. van & Kuenen, F.J.A. (1998) -
Delft, J.J.C.W. van & Rijsewijk, A.C. van (2005) -
Delgado Castro, G. (2007) -
Delgado Garcia, J.D. & Arevalo, J.R. & Fernandez-Palacios, J.M. (2007) -
Transportation infrastructure is a main cause of environmental change in forest landscapes worldwide. In the Canary Islands, a dense road system fragment the native Canarian pine and laurel forests causing potential changes in population densities of endemic lacertid lizards (genus Gallotia). Our aim was to assess road edge effects on relative abundance patterns of the endemic Gallotia galloti in both forests. We also explored the species–habitat relationships in this road-fragmentation context. We found that lizard relative density in relation to road edges differed between forests. Lizards were more abundant along edges and leeward interior, but virtually absent from the interior of the windward laurel forest. In the pine forest, lizards were present at three distances from edge, with a net decrease in abundance from edge to interior. These patterns may be explained partly by differences in vegetation structure regarding road proximity in each forest that potentially affect the helio- and thigmothermic character of G. galloti, and thus its habitat use. A general suggestion of this study is that road margins create corridors that may be used by native lizards for dispersal through inhospitable forest matrix. The high road density in Tenerife may have negative implications for the conservation of the genetic variability of G. galloti. At the island scale, increased communication between lizard populations through road corridors might increase homogenization of the gene pool. Ecological processes in which this lizard plays important roles may also experience changes along road edges.
Delgado-Gonzalez, F.J. & Alonso-Fuentes, A. & Delgado-Fumero, A. & Garcia-Verdugo, J.M. & Gonzalez-Granero, S. & Trujillo-Trujillo, C.M. & Damas-Hernandez, M.C. (2008) -
Lizards present neuronal production throughout the telencephalon in their adult state, both naturally and after experimentally induced brain lesions. As in birds, lizards present seasonal behavioural variations. In birds, such variations have been shown to alter neuronal production. In birds and mammals, lack of stimuli or exposure to stress interferes with adult neurogenetic capacity. The effect of this type of study has not been performed with lizards. In the present study we used bromodeoxyuridine to label dividing cells in the ventricular walls of Gallotia galloti lizards during all four seasons and we investigated the effect of captivity on such proliferation. We found that G. galloti presented a particular distribution that differed from that previously described in other reptiles with respect to regions of greater or lesser proliferative rate. In addition, proliferative rate varied seasonally, with greater production of cells in Spring and low production in Autumn and Winter. Proliferative rate was significantly lower throughout the telencephalon and during all seasons in those lizards kept in captivity as compared with wild animals, even though photoperiod and temperature were similar to natural conditions. Our results indicate that cell production in lizards is species-dependent, varies with seasons and is significantly reduced in captive animals.
Delgado-Gonzalez, F.J. & Gonzalez-Granero, S. & Trujillo-Trujillo, C.M. & Garcia-Verdugo, J.M. & Damas-Hernandez, M.C. (2011) -
In a previous study we found a seasonal distribution of cell proliferation (the first stage of adult neurogenesis) in the telencephalic ventricular walls of the adult Gallotia galloti lizard. The aimof the present work was to determine the influence of seasonality on the subsequent migration of the resulting immature neurons. We used wild animals injected with bromodeoxyuridine and kept in captivity within 30 days. To confirm the neuronal identity of these cells, we used double immunohistochemical 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU) and doublecortin (DCX, an early neuronal marker) labeling, as well as autoradiography after the administration of methyl-[3H] thymidine ([3H]T).We foundthat: (1) therateofcell division and/ormigration fromthe ventricular walls varied with the season, especially in regions related with olfaction. (2) Immature neuronlike cells appeared to migrate in an apparently radial and tangential way towards different parts of the telencephalic parenchyma. (3) We didnot observeultrastructurallymature neuronsuntil at least 90 days later, a period considerably greater than that reported for other species of vertebrates in similar studies.
Delgado, J.D. & Ángeles Gómez, M. de los (2016) -
Use of road drainage structures and other potential underpasses such as culverts by reptiles is scarcely studied. We present photographic evidence of Ocellated lizards (Timon lepidus) using a narrow, linear road drainage under an intense-traffic road in western Andalusia (Seville). Our finding suggests that lizards could benefit of using these alternative routes diminishing risks of road killing, and that even narrow culverts could be contributing to an inter-habitat displacement in this threatened lizard species by mitigating habitat fragmentation effects.
Delibes, A. & Salvador, A. (1986) -
Delic, T. & Zagar, A. (2011) -
Della Rossa, A. & Putti, R. (1995) -
The endocrine pancreas from 2 genera of lacertid lizards (Pedioplanis and Meroles) was investigated immunocytochemically for the presence of immunoreactivity to mammalian antisera to insulin (I), glucagon (G), pancreatic polypeptide (PP), peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY), neuropeptide tyrosine (NPY), somatostatin 14 (SRIF 14) and somatostatin 28 (SRIF 28), pancreastatin (Pst), galanin (Gl), oxytocin (OT). Cells immunoreactive (IR) to all the antisera used, and nerve fibers IR only to anti-galanin were found. Moreover, three types of colocalized immunoreactivities were detected: type 1 (PP/PYY/NPY), type 2 (G/PP/PYY/NPY), and type 3 (G/PYY/NPY/Pst).
Dellaoui, B. & Beddek, M. & Peyre, P. & Geniez, P. & Allegrini, B. & Koudache, F. & Crochet, P.-A. (2015) -
Dellinger, T. (1997) -
Delmas, C. (2012) -
Delmas, C. (2019) -
Delsman, H.C. (1902) -
Dely, O.G. (1957) -
Dely, O.G. (1965) -
Dely, O.G. (1978) -
Paper summarizes the results of investigations carried out on nthe morphological variation of the lizard Lacerta vivipara Jacquin. Data taken from 70 European specimens originating from different lowland and mountain localities have shown an increased variability of the morphological characters in populations from lowland localities, but variability decreased in groups living more northwards or in mountain regions. The increased variability of the mentioned populations may be caused by the reduced viability owing to isolation. The lowland form of Lacerta vivipara revealing an increased variability and living in refugial territories of the former glacial area seems to be the more ancient type while the mountain form represents an advanced one.
Dely, O.G. (1979) -
The variability of some Mongolian populations of three species from the genus Eremias (Eremias argus W. Peters, E. multiocella Günther and E. przewalskii (Strauch)) was studied. Not only the intraspecific variability of a number of morphological characters, especially that of the pholidose of the pileus, but the homologous variability between the different species, were also analysed. Some of these characters reveal a close relationships between the different species of the genus. Some new locality data are also published
Dely, O.G. (1980) -
Dely, O.G. (1981) -
The morphological variability of some specimens of Eremias argus argus W. Peters from the Democratic People´s Republic of Korea and from Peopleé Republic of China was studies. Both samples reveal about the same variation of the analysed characters.
Dely, O.G. (1982) -
Studied was the variability of 23 metric and numerical traits aa well as that of head shield and colour pattern of the body on the basis of a material consisting of 119 specimens of Lacerta taurica Pallas originating from different localities of Hungary, Yugoslavia, Rumania and the Soviet Union (Crimean Peninsula). Comparing the variability of this species it appears that the studied characters have a smaller range than that of Lacerta vivipara Jacquin.
Dely, O.G. & Böhme, W. (1984) -
Dely, O.G. & Kovács, L. (1961) -
Szerzők dolgozatukban a homoki gyik /Lacerta taurica PALLAS/ ujabb magyarországi elterjedési adatait ismertetik. Ennek értelmében a faunára uj lelőhelyek az alábbiak: Pest- erzsébet, Monor, Veresegyháza, Pelsőpakony, őcsa,Peszéradace /Kunadacs/, Bócsa, Kiskunhalas, Szeged Fehér-tó, Baja és Pá- kozd.
Dely, O.G. & Stohl, G. (1982) -
Comparative analyses were carried out about the variability of the pileal shields of different species belonging to the family Lacertidae. The results of the comparisons have been evaluated in respect to the phylogenetical relationships existing between the different genera and species of the family.
Deme, G. & Liang, X. & Okoro, J. & Bhattarai, P. & Sun, B. & Malann, Y. & Martin, R. (2022) -
The evolution of body size, both within and between species, has been long predicted to be influenced by multifarious environmental factors. However, the specific drivers of body size variation have remained difficult to understand because of the wide range of proximate factors that consistently covary with ectotherm body sizes across populations with varying local environmental conditions. Here, we used a widely distributed lizard (Eremias argus) collected from different populations situated across China to assess how climatic conditions and/or available resources at different altitudes shape the geographical patterns of lizard body size across populations. We used body size data from locations differing in altitudes across China to construct linear mixed models to test the relationship between lizard body size and ecological and climate conditions across altitudes. Lizard populations showed significant differences in body size across altitudes. Furthermore, we found that variation in body size among populations was also explained by climatic and seasonal changes along the altitudinal gradient. Specifically, body size decreased with colder and drier environmental conditions at high altitudes, resulting in a reversal of Bergmann’s rule. Limited resources at high altitudes, as measured by net primary productivity, may also constrain body size. Therefore, our study demonstrates that the intraspecific variation in female lizards’ body size may be strongly influenced by multifarious local environments as adaptive plasticity for female organisms to possibly maximise reproductive ecology along geographic clines.
Deme, G.G. & Hao, X. & Ma, L. & Sun, B. & Du, W. (2022) -
Identifying how reproductive strategies such as the trade-off between clutch size versus egg mass vary with elevational gradients is essential for our understanding of life-history evolution. We studied lacertid lizards (Eremias argus) in China, from six populations at different altitudes, to assess elevational variation in reproductive strategy. We found significant between-population variation in maternal body size and clutch mass, but these variations were not explained by elevational differences. However, high-elevation females tended to produce smaller clutches of larger eggs compared with their low-elevation counterparts, demonstrating an elevational change in the trade-off between egg size and number. The egg size-number trade-off is a reproductive strategy that may favor large offspring, better enabling them to survive severe and unpredictable environments found at high elevations.
Deme, G.G. & Liang, X. & Onyekwere Okoro, J. & Bhattarai, P. & Sun, B. & Malann, Y.D. & Martin, R.A. (2023) -
The evolution of body size within and among species is predicted to be influenced by multifarious environmental factors. However, the specific drivers of body size variation have remained difficult to understand because of the wide range of proximate factors that covary with ectotherm body sizes across populations with varying local environmental conditions. Here, we used female Eremias argus lizards collected from different populations across their wide range in China, and constructed linear mixed models to assess how climatic conditions and/or available resources at different altitudes shape the geographical patterns of lizard body size across altitude. Lizard populations showed significant differences in body size across altitudes. Furthermore, we found that climatic and seasonal changes along the altitudinal gradient also explained variations in body size among populations. Specifically, body size decreased with colder and drier environmental conditions at high altitudes, reversing Bergmann`s rule. Limited resources at high altitudes, measured by the low vegetative index, may also constrain body size. Therefore, our study demonstrates that multifarious environmental factors could strongly influence the intraspecific variation in organisms` body size.
Demeizis-Tsikoutas, A. & Kaskanea-Efthymiou, C. & Pafilis, P. (2020) -
A small but growing population of the Dalmatian Algyroides (Algyroides nigropunctatus) was found in a suburb of Athens (Greece), a long way from the species` known range. This apparently introduced population increases the number of new lizard species documented in the Athens metropolitan area during the past few years.
Demetropoulos, A. & Lambert, M. (1986) -
Denburgh, J. van (1909) -
Denburgh, J. van (1912) -
Denneman, A.K. & Denneman, W.D. (1978) -
The regional in the very centre of Burgundy (France) was visited in the summer of 1975 and 1977 during 4 and 3 weeks. An area of 50 square kilometers was investigated mainly in respect to the reptiles and amphibians. They appeared to be well represented, the amphibians with 5 species: Rana temporaria, Bujo bujo, Bombina variegata, Trilllrus helveticus and Salamandra s. terrestris. We also met the following species of reptiles: Lacerta agilis, Lacerta vivipara, A nguis fragilis, Coronella austriaca, Natrix natrix and presumably Elaphe longissima. The occurrence of Lacerta muralis and Lacerta viridis near Beaune is mentioned.
Dens, F. (2013) -
Dent, S. (1980) -
Dent, S. (1986) -
Dent, S. & Spellerberg, J.F. (1987) -
The ecology of the two lizard species Lacerta agilis and Lacerta vivipara were studied within coniferous plantations. These two species use three areas: unplanted areas such as fire breaks or areas where crops have failed; compartments where planting has occurred but tree canopy formation later makes the habitat unsuitable; and ride verges. The study was designed to compare the two lizard species in terms of their use of ride verges. The distribution of the two species along the verges was determined in part by the characteristics of ground flora, the surrounding tree canopy and by the slope and aspect. It was found that the two species were associated with different kinds of vegetation. Although the vegetation of the rides is similar to that of open heathland, the ride habitat may have limited use because the plantation trees restrict the duration of sunshine received at the surface. Both species were found to be limited in their distribution along ride verges relative to a sunshine index. Data from this research could usefully be used in the conservation of small reptile populations within coniferous plantations.
Dent, S. & Spellerberg, J.F. (1988) -
Three areas in forest plantations provide habitats for the lizard Lacerta agilis: open unplanted spaces, areas where planting has recently taken place and ride verges. The last seem to offer the greatest potential for habitat management. Features of the verge which are important components of the L. agilis habitat are the nature of the ground vegetation and the soil characteristics, the width and/or area and the amount of sunshine received by the verge. These features have been researched and analysed, providing information on which to base management. Analysis of the amount of sunshine received on verges led to the development of a sunshine index which can be used in a model to estimate when tree growth will make the verge unsuitable for L. agilis. Recommendations are made for the management of forest ride verges for L. agilis.
Denzer, W. & Cogger, H. & Böhme, W. (2020) -
The taxon name Lacerta varia has been independently coined four times. Such homonymy can result in nomen-clatural instability. We show that all but one name are nomina oblita. This way we protect the longstanding name Lacerta bilineataDaudin, 1802. With respect to the species epithet varia in combination with the genus name Lacerta only Lacerta varia by Shaw in White, 1790 is available for nomenclatural purposes representing Varanusvarius (Shaw in White, 1790).
Depeiges, A. & Betail, G. & Coulet, M. & Dufaure, J.P. (1985) -
The epididymis of lizards elaborates voluminous secretory granules made of a central core and a peripheral vacuole which in the species Lacerta vivipara contain respectively an insoluble protein (protein H) and a soluble protein (protein L). After their discharge these secretions mix with spermatozoa. In order to detect the presence of carbohydrates in these secretions, lectins isolated from Canavalia ensiformis (con A) and from eleven other plants (lentil, soja, pea, gorse and several mushrooms), conjugated to fluorescein isothiocyanate, have been utilized in light-microscopic histochemical investigations of frozen sections from Lacerta vivipara epididymis. Whereas lectins having affinity for Lfucose, lactose, D-galactose and N-acetyl-D-galactosamine bound to central cores, lectins having affinity to D-glucose, N-acetylglucosamine and chitobiose bound to the peripheral vacuole. D-mannose or D-glucose seem to be present both in central cores and in peripheral vacuoles.
Depeiges, A. & Dacheux, J.L. (1985) -
Depeiges, A. & Force, A. & Fufaure, J.P. (1987) -
From epididymal fluid samples taken at three different times during the reproductive period (early April, late April, mid-May), the soluble proteins were separated with one dimensional electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel. Their evolution was studied: firstly quantitatively, after staining with Coomassie blue, or, for one protein (the `L` protein), by immunodetection; secondly, according to their glycosylation after transfer to nitrocellulose and treatment with a set of labelled lectins: from Wheat germ, Ricinus communis, Lens culinaris, Asparagus pea or Canavalia ensiformis, with or without use of their specific inhibitor sugars. At least 15 proteins underwent a quantitative and/or qualitative evolution, mainly during the month of April. Protein `L` (19 kDa), which is androgen dependent and which fixates on to spermatozoa during their epididymal transit, appears to be little or not glycosylated. By contrast its accumulation in the epididymal canal increases considerably during the month of April. Five other proteins proved to be especially interesting because of their evolution during this same period, notably the MW 94, 67, 35, 29 and 25.5 kDa proteins. With the exception of the 67 kDa all the others increased quantitatively. All were decisively enriched in mannose or in methyl-mannoside residues. The proteins of MW 29 and 25.5 kDa were also enriched in galactose or N-acetyl galactosamine residues. These findings are of physiological significance since they are set up concomitantly with the acquisition of maximum motility of spermatozoa in the distal segment of the epididymis, and they coincide with a very great increase in testosteronemia.
Depoli, G. (1898) -
Deraniyagala, P. (1971) -
Deraniyagala, P.E.P. (1953) -
Deschandol, F. (2011) -
Desfilis, E. & Abellán, A. & Sentandreu, V. & Medina, L. (2018) -
The comparison of gene expression patterns in the embryonic brain of mouse and chicken is being essential for understanding pallial organization. However, the scarcity of gene expression data in reptiles, crucial for understanding evolution, makes it difficult to identify homologues of pallial divisions in different amniotes. We cloned and analyzed the expression of the genes Emx1, Lhx2, Lhx9, and Tbr1 in the embryonic telencephalon of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus. The comparative expression patterns of these genes, critical for pallial development, are better understood when using a recently proposed six‐part model of pallial divisions. The lizard medial pallium, expressing all genes, includes the medial and dorsomedial cortices, and the majority of the dorsal cortex, except the region of the lateral cortical superposition. The latter is rich in Lhx9 expression, being excluded as a candidate of dorsal or lateral pallia, and may belong to a distinct dorsolateral pallium, which extends from rostral to caudal levels. Thus, the neocortex homolog cannot be found in the classical reptilian dorsal cortex, but perhaps in a small Emx1‐expressing/Lhx9‐negative area at the front of the telencephalon, resembling the avian hyperpallium. The ventral pallium, expressing Lhx9, but not Emx1, gives rise to the dorsal ventricular ridge and appears comparable to the avian nidopallium. We also identified a distinct ventrocaudal pallial sector comparable to the avian arcopallium and to part of the mammalian pallial amygdala. These data open new venues for understanding the organization and evolution of the pallium.
Desfilis, E. & Font, E. & Guillén-Salazar, F. (2003) -
The authors examine the relative roles of vision and chemoreception and the influence of previous experience with prey on the predatory behavior of Iberian wall lizards (Podarcis hispanica). Experiment 1 compared the responses to visual, chemical, and a combination of visual and chemical cues of a familiar prey by 2 groups of lizards that had been kept in captivity for either 3 months or 21 days. Experiment 2 assessed the responses of lizards kept in the laboratory for more than 3 months to a novel prey species. The results reveal that feeding on a prey species affects the lizards` responses to chemical stimuli from that prey. The response to chemical cues of a novel prey requires a 1st-feeding experience with that prey. Lizards that have been fed the same prey species for several months cease responding to the chemical stimuli of that particular prey.
Desfilis, E. Font, E. & Gómez, A. (1993) -
Deso, G. (2014) -
Some details on the diet and commensal behaviour of Sicilian Lizards in Tuscany, Italy.
Deso, G. (2018) -
Recognition of an ocellated Lizard (Timon lepidus) on a five year span, thanks to the photo-identification. Thanks to the shape and the arrangement of its ocelli, an ocellated lizard was identified in 2012 as the same individual already photographed in 2007.
Le Mimosa d`hiver Acacia dealbata Link, 1822, une menace pour le Lézard ocellé Timon lepidus (Daudin, 1802)? (Région Provence-Alpes-Côte-d`Azur) par Grégory DESO Abstract-Winter mimosa Acacia dealbata Link, 1822, a menace for ocellated lizard Timon lepidus (Daudin, 1802) in the country Provence-Alpes-Côte-d`Azur ? The ocellated Lizard Timon lepidus (Daudin, 1802) presents an intermittent distribution on the French Mediterranean coast. Populations are few and undergo many threats. The littoral populations of the Var and the Alpes-Maritimes undergo a closure of the environment due to the invasion of the Winter mimosa Acacia dealbata Link, 1822. This note aims to draw attention on a possible threat which affect the littoral populations of ocellated Lizards.
Deso, G. (2020) -
In the heart of the French countryside, recipes developed around the biggest snakes, ways to prepare Lizards identical to other countries are still in the minds of ourelders. We also report here a testimony of consumption of the ocellated lizard and of an unexpected use of its skin.
Deso, G. & Cevasco, J.M. & Salvidio, S: & Ottonello, D. & Oneto, F. & Cheylan, C. (2015) -
Recent surveys on the ocellated lizard, Timon lepidus lepidus, populations along the French and Italian border allowed to update the species’ distribution and conservation status. Two populations connecting the two countries were discovered and several pathways between France and Italy are suspected. We also discuss the status of these populations and their conservations issues.
Deso, G. & Crouzet, A. (2022) -
Deso, G. & Dusoulier, F. & Bence, S. & Cheylan, M. (2011) -
New researches conducted in the Durance valley (within the departments of Hautes-Alpes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence) enable to precise the extension of the ocellated lizard within the Alpine arc at the margins of its distribution area. Nineteen new populations are herein reported, as well as the confirmation of the presence of the species in three historic localities. We discuss the conservation status of the new populations described and also make several recommendations for the conservation of the species.
Deso, G. & Simar Bayet, P. & Varese, P. & Schumpp, U. & Marchand, M.A. (2023) -
Despott, G. (1915) -
Dessimoz, F. & Rathey, E. (2009) -
Detwiler, S.R. (1923) -
Devan, P. (1999) -
Dewynter, M. & Frétey, T. & Jongsma, G.F.M. & Bamba-Kaya, A. & Pauwels O.S.G. (2018) -
Dexel, R. (1984) -
Dexel, R. (1985) -
Dexel, R. (1986) -
In the northern parts of its range the wall lizard depends on habitats, which show - due to their location and structures - an exeptional warm microclimate. Open country with !arge stony and rocky areas is of great importance, because it is warmed up by solar ra- diation and then shows high temperatures expecially in the microhabitate of the lizards. On the study area in the Siebengebirge near Bonn (F.R.G.) in 1982 and 1983 unusual long activity seasons from march to november were observed. Remarkable characters were found like red bellies or throats, blue flanks and yellow throats - dependent on sex and character - in 40-90 % of the examined lizards. Similar characters were observed in populations of the Eifel, but not at Aachen.
From april 1982 until september 1983 164 specimens of the wall lizard, Podarcis muralis (LAURENTI, 1768) were registered on a 1.2 ha !arge study site in the Siebengebirge near Bonn (F.R.G.) by using capture-recapture methods. Partial multiple recatch succeeded in nearly 60 % of these lizards. Frequency calculations showed an 100% increase of the population in 1982; this high reproduction rate is probably climatically caused. The 1983 population consisted of 280 lizards, of which more than 50 % were subadults (20 % in 1982). In spring and summer of both years the weather conditions (air temperature and dura- tion of sunshine) have been favourable. The early hatching of the juveniles in July 1982 also indicates good weather conditions in this year. Accordingly the registered growth rates can be expected to be comparatively high. The average growth curves of sexes, determined by regression analysis, show for males longer than 35-40 mm (snout to vent) a higher growth rate than for females. The age structure of the population is illustrated by three diagrams. Additional remarks are made about sex rares, fertility, life expectancies, and ectoparasites.
Dezsö, L. (1956) -
DGHT (2006) -
DGHT (2010) -
DGHT (2019) -
Dhora, D. & Beqiraj, S. & Dhora, D. (2001) -
Dhouially, D. & Saxod, R. (1974) -
Di Gia, I. & Sindaco, R. (2004) -
Lacerta agilis is an Italian reptile species with a very restricted distribution, living only in two limited areas respectively of the Carnic Alps (Friuli - Venezia Giulia) and the Marittime Alps (Piedmont). The main and apparently stable Italian population is that of the western Alps. At present, only two disjunct Lacerta agilis subpopulations are known in the Piedmont Alps, in an area of about 7-8 Km2. Data on micro-distribution, habitat preference and population structure were collected in two sites of presence.
Di Palma, M. (1980) -
Di Palma, M.G. (1984) -
The diet of the lizard Psammodromus algirus was studied on the small Isola dei Conigli, near Lampedusa, Sicily. A comparison is made with the diet of the population studied by Mellado (1975) in the South of Spain. Both plant and animal remains were found in the fecal pellets of the Isola dei Conigli lizards, contrary to what has been found in Spain. Ants, beetles and spiders were the princ pal animal prey
Di Palma, M.G. (1991) -
Di Rosa, I. & Panara, F. & Fagotti, A. & Simoncelli, F. & Chaponier, C. & Gabbiani, G. & Pascolini, R. (1995) -
α-Smooth muscle (αSM) actin of endothermic vertebrates is selectively recognized by the monoclonal antibody anti-αSM-1. Immunoreactivity to this antibody has been shown to be localized in the NH2-terminal sequence Ac-EEED (Chaponnier et al. 1994). Among terrestrial ectothermic vertebrates, two amphibian (Triturus vulgaris, Rana esculenta) and three reptilian species (Pseudemys scripta elegans, Natrix natrix, Podarcis sicula) were screened to investigate if their vascular and visceral smooth muscles were stained by anti-αSM-1. In all the specimens tested, Western-blot analysis of tissue extracts immunodecorated with anti-αSM-1 revealed a single polypeptide chain having the same electrophoretic mobility as bovine αSM actin. The binding to amphibian and reptilian tissue extracts was inhibited by the synthetic peptide Ac-EEED, but not Ac-DEED, as occurs in mammals. αSM actin expression was found in vascular and visceral smooth muscle cells of the species tested. The media of small and large blood vessels was labelled by anti-αSM-1. In the stomach and intestine the outer longitudinal and inner circular layers of the muscularis and of the muscularis mucosae were stained. In addition, myofibroblasts of the subepithelial layer were labelled. A more restricted expression of this isoactin was detected in turtle (P. scripta elegans) visceral smooth muscle cells, which may be related to the involvement of the digestive system in respiratory activity. These data suggest that in vertebrate evolution αSM actin arose earlier than previously proposed.
Dias, G. & Luis, C. & Pinho, C. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2016) -
Diaz Herrero, E. (1980) -
Díaz-Ruiz, F. & Ferreras, P. (2011) -
Diaz-Uriarte, R. (1993) -
Diaz, C. & Puelles, L. (1992) -
Afficients to the habenular complex were studied by means of in vitro horseradish peroxidase retrograde labeling and anterograde control experiments in the lizard Gallotia galloti. The medial habenular nucleus was found to receive abundant afferent fibers from the nucleus of the posterior pallia] commissure and the nucleus scptalis impar. More restricted input comes from the nucleus eminen- tiac thalami and the nucleus of the stria medullaris. The lateral habenular nucleus is innervated by various fiber groups originating from the bed nucleus of the anterior commissure, the diagonal band nucleus, the lateral preoptic area, the anteriorentopcduncular nucleus, the lateral hypothalamic and mammillary areas, the nucleus of the stria medullaris. the area tegmentalis vcntralis and a scattered neuronal subpopulation in the large-celled dorsolateral nucleus of the dorsal thalamus. Habenulopctal fibers generally follow the stria medullaris, but hypothalamic, entopcduncularand dorsal thalamic afferents course through the dorsal peduncle of the lateral forebrain bundle in a transthalamic route. Mesencephalic ventral tegmental afferents ascend through the tractus retroflexus.
In order to test the usefulness of the in vitro HRP-labeling technique in the brains of small lizards, the fasciculus retroflexus was labeled in isolated brains of young specimens of the lizard Gallotia galloti by means of I IRP applied with the tip of a micropipctte located approximately midway along the descending course of the tract. Cells in the medial and lateral habenular nuclei were labeled rctro- gradely. Anterograde transport showed the course of the fasciculus retroflexus, first dorsoventrally into the paramedian prcrubral tegmentum and then longitudinally into the isthmic nucleus interpeduncularis. Some fibers spread dorsally into the mesencephalic and isthmic tegmental fields. A substantial bundle continues caudally into nucleus raphe parvocellularis. Other fibers diverge rostral- wards from the point of inflexion of the fasciculus, coursing longitudinally in the medial forebrain bundle into the basal telencephalon. Some fibers course ros- trally from the nucleus habenularis lateralis in the stria mcdullaris and could be followed to the dorsal septum.
Diaz, C. & Yanes, C. & Trujillo, C.M. & Puelles, L. (1994) -
The projection pattern of the ventral thalamic reticular nucleus onto the dorsal thalamus was studied in the lizard Gallotia galloti using in vitro horseradish peroxidase and fluorescent carbocyanine labelling techniques. Localized label deposits at three dorsoventrally spaced sites in the dorsal thalamus elicited retrograde transport into separate, though partly overlapping, medial, dorsolateral and ventrolateral sectors within an extended cytoarchjtectonic complex which may be globally identifiable as the reticular nucleus. Neurons found in the dorsolateral and ventrolateral sectors mainly corresponded to the cell group named nucleus ventromedialis (or nucleus of the dorsal supraoptic decussation) in the literature, whereas neurons labelled in the medial sector corresponded to the so-called dorsal hypothalamic nucleus. Sparser cells appear labelled in the superficially placed nucleus suprapeduncularis. Thalamotelencephalic fibers arising from the injected dorsal thalamic nuclei also project to the corresponding retrogradely labeled sectors within the reticular nucleus. These findings reveal a rough topographic organization in the connections of the extended reticular nucleus complex with the whole dorsal thalamus. This supports the hypothesis of hodological homology between this ventral thalamic formation in Gallotia and the mammalian thalamic reticular nucleus.
Diaz, C. & Yanes, C. & Trujillo, C.M. & Puelles, L. (2000) -
Contemporary study of molecular patterning in the vertebrate midbrain is handicapped by the lack of a complete topological map of the diverse neuronal complexes differentiated in this domain. The relatively less deformed reptilian midbrain was chosen for resolving this fundamental issue in a way that can be extrapolated to other tetrapods. The organization of midbrain centers was mapped topologically in terms of longitudinal columns and cellular strata on transverse, Nissl-stained sections in the lizard Gallotia galloti. Four columns extend along the whole length of the midbrain. In dorsoventral order: 1) the dorsal band contains the optic tectum, surrounded by three ventricularly prominent subdivisions, named griseum tectale, intermediate area and torus semicircularis, in rostrocaudal order; 2) a subjacent region is named here the lateral band, which forms the ventral margin of the alar plate and also shows three rostrocaudal divisions; 3) the basal band forms the basal plate or tegmentum proper; it appears subdivided into medial and lateral parts: the m+edial part contains the oculomotor and accessory efferent neurons and the medial basal part of the reticular formation, which includes the red nucleus rostrally; the lateral part contains the lateral basal reticular formation, and includes the substantia nigra caudally; 4) the median band contains the ventral tegmental area, representing the mesencephalic floor plate. The alar regions (dorsal and lateral) show an overall cellular stratification into periventricular, central and superficial strata, with characteristic cytoarchitecture for each part. The lateral band contains two well developed superficial nuclei, one of which is commonly misidentified as an isthmic formation. The basal longitudinal subdivisions are simpler and basically consist of periventricular and central strata.
Diaz, J.A. (1988) -
Diaz, J.A. (1991) -
1. I studied the thermoregulatory behaviour of the diurnal basker Psammodromus algirus (Reptilia, Lacertidae) in the mosaic of sunshade patches of a Mediterranean evergreen forest. 48 behavioural sequences associated with measurements of the thermal environment provided data on the percentages of time spent basking by focal animals, the duration of individual basking periods and the frequency of basking. 2. The percentage of time basking decreased linearly from the onset of the activity period until midday. The average duration of basking periods had a pronounced decrease after 0700 h and remained constant throughout the rest of the morning, whereas the basking rates, that were minimal before 0700 h, reached a peak between 0700 and 0800 h followed by a progressive fall that continued until noon. 3. In order to explain these behavioural patterns, I experimentally determined the effects of environmental variables (air and ground temperature and solar angle) on the heating and cooling rates of captive lizards. The resulting regression models were then used to predict the heat exchange rates of the observed free-ranging animals. 4. The moment at which heating rates should equal and then exceed cooling rates, appeared to set off the behavioural shift towards a larger frequency of shorter basking periods. Under these circumstances, the apparently random movement of a shuttling heliotherm with respect to sun and shade might still be of thermoregulatory significance.
Diaz, J.A. (1992) -
I studied the distribution of the heliothermic lizard Psammodromus algirus around the shrubs of a Mediterranean open forest. Observations were classified according to the compass direction of the sector of the shrub patch used by lizards (N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, or NW). The distribution of lizards around shrub patches was clearly selective and varied markedly with time of day. The frequency with which lizards were found in different positions around shrubs was negatively related to the average distance between shrub edge and nearest available sunlit perch; the shrub sectors preferred were always those in the direction of the sun, so that behavioral thermoregulation could be performed with little movement and risk. In the morning and in the afternoon, basking lizards remained closer to vegetation than expected by the availability of sunlit perches. Individual lizards known to have survived an entire activity season used sun-directed shrub sectors more frequently than their conspecifics that emigrated or died. /// Se ha estudiado la distribución primaveral del lacértido heliotermo Psammodromus algirus en torno a las manchas de vegetación de un encinar mediterráneo. Las observaciones se clasificaron en ocho posibles sectores angulares en torno al perímetro de los arbustos (N, NE, E, SE, S, SO, O ó NO). La distribución de las lagartijas resultó ser claramente selectiva y variar marcadamente con el período horario. El número de animales soleándose en cada orientación se correlacionó inversamente con la distancia media al parche soleado más próximo medida en diez arbustos seleccionados al azar; las orientaciones preferidas fueron por tanto las situadas en la dirección del sol, lo que permite desarrollar la termorregulación comportamental minimizando los movimientos y riesgos asociados. Por la mañana y por la tarde, las lagartijas se expusieron al sol más cerca de los arbustos de lo que cabría esperar considerando la accesibilidad media de las áreas soleadas. Los individuos marcados que sobrevivieron toda una estación de actividad hicieron uso de las orientaciones en la dirección del sol con mayor frecuencia que sus congéneres desaparecidos.
Diaz, J.A. (1993) -
I studies the activity, spacing patterns, courtship behavior, and survival of males (classified into two groups into two groups according to the development of the sexual coloration of the head) and females from a population of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus. Brightly colored (C +) males were significantly larger (and probably older) than dull-colored (C -) males, but aspects of behavior differed between study years. In 1989, C + males had larger home ranges, were more active, overlapped with more females, and courted females more frequently tha C – males. In 1990, none of these traits differed between the two categories of males. The variables associated with survival were different in the two sexes. Larger and more active males survived less well than smaller and less active ones, whereas survival of females was related to the fact that the times when they were observed were later in the day. Higher mortality rates could have been doe to a higher predation risk affecting animals that were active on more days or under less favorable conditions. I postulate that the increased activity of males (mainly category C + in years favoring stronger selection) would increase their short-therm reproductive success but negatively affect their survival.
Diaz, J.A. (1994) -
The thermal dependence of predation success in the Mediterranean lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus was studied using two types of prey (winged and wingless flies) that differed in their ability to escape predation at all T(b)S (body temperatures) tested (25-27-degrees-C, 29-32-degrees-C, and 34-37-degrees-C). Both number of failures and handling time decreased significantly at higher T(b)S, and capture success was much higher for wingless flies; in fact, low T(b)S were associated with a significant increase in capture success only in the case of winged flies. At low T(b)S, winged flies could be efficiently seized by lizards only if pursued from a short distance. The attack distance was therefore larger for the less mobile (and less detectable) wingless flies at low T(b)S, which suggests a trade-off between attack distance and capture success under conditions of impaired locomotor performance. Results of this study show that the escape abilities of prey are crucial to evaluate the effects of temperature on the performance of reptiles as predators
I studies the thermoregulatory behavior of a field population of the Canarian lizard Gallotia galloti, using null hypothesis based on (1) the measurement of operative temperatures available in full sun and in the shade (Te), and (2) the distribution of randomly positioned models with respect to sun and shade. The activity curve of the lizard population was unimodal, with a pronounced peak in the morning and lower (though roughly constant) levels at later times of day. Activity levels were positively correlated with the difference between Te in the sund and Te in the shade, but negatively correlated with Te in the shade. The distribution of lizards into sun-shade categories was highly selective relative to paper models, with an overall daily selectivity pattern that was symmetrical around midday (selection of sunlit perches early and late in the day, shade seeking at midday, and random distribution at intermediate hours). The low dispersion of hourly mean operative temperatures at lizard perching sites relative to random locations of models (average values calculated weighting mean Tes with frequencies of sun-shade use and sun-shade availability) suggested a high degree of thermoregulatory precision. Dark, adult males basked for longer periods than juveniles, whereas subadults/Females showed intermediate basking times, which suggests that body size and color differences may play a role in behavioral thermoregulation by these lizards.
Diaz, J.A. (1995) -
Diaz, J.A. (1997) -
1. Although thermal factors are of paramount importance to the quality of the habitats occupied by small ectotherms (e.g. lizards), the hypothesis that the relative abundance of squamate populations is related to the thermal quality of their habitats remains untested. If differences in the availability of thermally suitable microhabitats was the primary determinant of the overall quality of a lizard’s habitat, population density in a habitat should be proportional to its thermal quality. 2. The influence of the thermal quality of a habitat on thermoregulatory behaviour, body temperatures, expected physiological performance and relative abundance was compared in two populations of the temperate lizard Psammodromus algirus separated by 700 m altitude in central Spain. Habitat thermal quality was estimated with an index of how closely the available operative temperatures in a habitat match the range of body temperatures that lizards attempt to maintain in a laboratory thermogradient (Hertz, Huey & Stevenson 1993). 3. Operative temperatures, measured using copper models, were higher at the lowland site, where a large proportion of readings fell within or above the preferred range, especially in the early morning. Thermal habitat quality was also higher at the low altitude site, with smaller absolute deviations from the preferred range throughout most of the morning hours. Moreover, lizard body temperatures, the accuracy of thermoregulation and the predicted running performance of lizards were somewhat higher at the lowland site, although differences were smaller than expected on the basis of operative temperatures. A log-linear analysis showed that lizard selectivity for basking sites was more pronounced at the thermally inferior montane site. Thus, the observed differences in the thermal quality of habitats appeared to influence the behaviour of lizards. 4. Nevertheless, the relative abundance of lizards, as estimated by repeated transect counts, was higher at the montane site. This unexpected result suggests that thermal constraints may not be the most important factor determining lizard population densities on a regional scale. Alternatively, food availability and/or predation pressure might have a greater impact on the overall quality of a habitat for temperate lizards.
Diaz, J.A. & Alonso-Gómes, A.L. & Delgado, M.J. (1994) -
We studied the seasonal variations of reproductive characteristics in a wild population of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus by measuring gonadal weight, germinal epithelium height, sexual steroids (testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone), and lipid reserves (in fat bodies and liver) in three phases of the reproductive cycle: early breeding (late April), late breeding (mid-June), and post-breeding season (late July). In males, testis size, germinal epithelium, and testosterone plasma levels were high in the breeding season and decreased dramatically in July. However, spermatogenesis (maximum in June) was slightly delayed with respect to testosterone secretion (peak in April), suggesting that a previous increase in testosterone levels could be necessary to stimulate the initial stages of spermatogenesis. Larger testes and higher testosterone levels were found in larger and more brightly colored males, known to overlap with more females and court them more frequently than their smaller conspecifics. In females, the ovary was previtellogenic in early spring, and showed a rapid growth by mid-June, oviposition occurring in early summer. The increase in 17 β-estradiol levels observed between April and June was coincident with the maturation of previtellogenic follicles. In both sexes fat body cycles were inversely correlated with gonadal cycles. By the end of the breeding season there was a reactivation of hepatic lipogenesis that was coincident with a significant decrease in activity levels.
Diaz, J.A. & Bauwens, D. & Asensio, B. (1996) -
It is well known that lizard species from thermally diverse areas differ in their use of thermoregulatory behaviors as a means of making short-term adjustments to differences in ambient conditions. In contrast, the extent of long-term adjustments in thermal physiology is poorly documented and still under debate. In this study we report a clear interspecific relationship between heating rates, measured under standardized laboratory conditions, and environmental temperatures within a small clade of lacertid lizards. Phylogenetically based ANCOVAs demonstrate that species with a northern or montane distribution warm at a faster mass-specific rate than do species from a southern (Mediterranean) climatic zone. Correlational analyses, using phylogenetically independent contrasts, confirm that continuous among-species variation in mass-specific heating rates is negatively related to clinal differences in environmental temperatures. A reduction of the time spent warming, associated with higher heating rates, should be especially advantageous for lizards from cool climates, which bask for large amounts of time. Thus, the observed relation between heating rates and climatic conditions could be a result of adaptive evolution. The behaviorally selected preferred temperatures were lower, but not significantly so, in the northern or montane species set; interspecific correlations with ambient temperatures were positive but not significant. However, the divergence of heating rates and the statistically nonsignificant difference in preferred temperatures have similar impacts on variation in the estimated amount of time spent heating. Thus, differences in both heating rate, a physiological trait, and preferred temperature, a behavioral characteristic, contribute equally to variation in heating times.
Díaz, J.A. & Cabezas-Díaz, . & Salvador, A. (2005) -
We studied the thermal consequences of microhabitat selection by Psammodromus algirus lizards by combining data on the frequency of use and relative availability of three different types of microhabitats, with information about the environmental operative temperatures, and their deviations from the lizards` selected thermal range, available in these microhabitats. In both seasons, lizards preferred holm oak shrubs and avoided rockrose shrubs and open areas. However, the thermal suitability of holm oaks was highest in July but lowest in May. We suggest that microhabitat preferences were more related to other aspects of lizard ecology (e.g. antipredator behaviour) than to thermal requirements.
Diaz, J.A. & Cabezas-Diaz, S. (2004) -
1. We studied seasonal changes in the thermoregulatory behaviour of the lacertid lizard Psammodroums algirus in a Mediterranean evergreen forest. Body temperatures (Tb), environmental operative temperatures (Te) and upper and lower limits of the selected thermal range (Tsel) were lower in May than in July. 2. On average, mean deviations of Tb from Tsel (0·7 °C in both seasons) were much smaller than those of Te (8·3 °C in both seasons). Thus both the accuracy (average dif- ference between Tb and Tsel) and effectiveness (the extent to which Tb are closer than Te to Tsel) of thermoregulation were high, and similar in both seasons. 3. However the thermoregulatory contribution of two distinct behavioural mech- anisms varied markedly between seasons. Daily activity contributed significantly to the regulation of Tb in May (when a population of Te thermometers matching lizard activ- ity patterns would be, on average, 1·0 °C closer to Tsel than were randomly available Te), but not in July (when such a population would be only 0·2 °C closer to Tsel than were randomly available Te). The selection of sun–shade patches, the contribution of which was larger than that of daily activity in both seasons, was more important in July (when it produced a distribution of Te that would be, on average, 3·1 °C closer to Tsel than were randomly distributed Te) than in May (when a population of thermometers matching the lizards’ pattern of exposure to sunlight would be 1·3 °C closer to Tsel than were ran- domly available Te). 4. Thesechangesarediscussedinthelightofseasonaldifferencesinthedailypatternsof among-patch variation in Te. In spring, lizard activity was low in the early morning because even the selection of sunlit patches was of limited utility to attain Tb within Tsel; in summer, lizards could remain active at midday, despite low overall thermal suitability, by selecting shaded patches. Thus the contribution of patch selection to thermoregulation was important in the early basking period of both seasons, and at summer midday hours. 5. Our data suggest that shuttling between sun and shade, rather than selecting sun or shade, may be an additional mechanism of behavioural thermoregulation, the importance of which would be greatest at times of day when lizards use patches at random (e.g. spring midday hours), and that their mean Tb is closer to the grand mean of full sun and full shade Te than to the mean equilibrium Te within any type of patch.
Diaz, J.A. & Carbonell, R. & Virgos, E. & Santos, T. & Telleria, J.L. (2000) -
This study reports the population responses of the lizard Psammodromus algirus to forest fragmentation by comparing its distribution in two contrasting situations of habitat conservation: a well connected mosaic landscape (forest patches larger than 2000 ha and/or connected by corridors that prevent their isolation), and an archipelago of forest remnants embedded within a matrix of cereal fields. The frequency of occurrence of P. algirus was larger in the unfragmented habitats (14 out of 19 censused plots) than in the fragments (two out of of 21 wood-lots). Vegetation structure was a good predictor of lizard occurrence under conditions of no fragmentation, but not in the fragments, where high plant cover seemed a necessary, but insufficient, condition for the survival of lizard populations, and where remnant size was the only variable that differed significantly between wood-lots with and without lizards. Historical fragmentation of the habitat is also crucial for understanding the current distribution of lizards, as shown by their absence from a large forest that was highly fragmented in the past but which has been regenerating for decades. It is hypothesized that the combined effects of fragmentation and predation in small remnants have led to the extinction of P. algirus in fragments smaller than c. 90 ha, recolonization being prevented by the very limited dispersal abilities of these forest lizards.
Diaz, J.A. & Carrascal, L.M. (1990) -
The summer diet of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus and the availability of potential prey were compared at a Mediterranean evergreen woodland in central Iberia. Prey size proved to be the main factor implied in the selection of both prey taxa and individual prey items: lizards were selective in the sizes of the arthropods they captured, their selectivity for different prey types was related to the mean volume of these types, and they tended to capture only the larger items when feeding from the smaller prey types. We conclude that lizards did not assess the taxonomic identity of arthropods but rather relied on prey size in their responses to food availability.
Diaz, J.A. & Carrascal, L.M. (1991) -
We studies the distribution of a common Mediterranean lacertid lizard, Psammodromus algirus (L.) 1758, on ninteen sites within a regional gradient of homogeneous yet contrasted habitats. This scale was large enough to allow line-transect estimates of lizard abundance, which were related to quantitative (and when possible multivariate) measurements of the structure and floristic composition of vegetation, the abundance of arthropod prey, the relative density of other lizard species, and the climatic data obtained from nearly meteorological stations. Neither the climate not the abundance of other lizards seemed to condition the quantitative distribution of the species. The positive influence of broad-leaved forests on the abundance of P. algirus appeared to be a consequence of structure attributes more directly related to the ecology of lizards than floristic composition per se. Thus, population levels were most highly correlated with the cover of shrubs over 20 cm in height, and once this structural requirements was met, they increased with the abundance of potential prey (itself conditioned by vegetation cover at the ground level and litter cover). We suggest that our results should be interpreted in the context of thermoregulatory, predator avoidance and movement minimization strategies whose influence on survival, and hence abundance, could probably be applied to other insectivorous lizards from temperate zones.
Diaz, J.A. & Carrascal, L.M. (1993) -
Maximizing the average rate of energy intake (profitability) may not always be the optimal foraging strategy for ectotherms with relatively low energy requirements. To test this hypothesis, we studied the feeding behaviour of captive insectivorous lizards Psammodromus algirus, and we obtained experimental estimates of prey mass, handling time, profitability, and attack distance for several types of prey. Handling time increased linearly with prey mass and differed significantly among prey types when prey size differences were controlled for, and mean profitabilities differed among prey taxa, but profitability was independent of prey size. The attack distance increased with prey length and with the mobility of prey, but it was unrelated to profitability. Thus, lizards did not seem to take account of the rate of energy intake per second as a proximate cue eliciting predatory behavior. This information was combined with pitfall-trap censuses of prey (in late April, mid-June and late July) that allowed us to compare the mass of the prey captured in the environment with that of the arthropods found in the stomachs of sacrificed free-living lizards. In April, when food abundance was low and lizards were reproducing, profitability had a pronounced effect on size selection and lizards selected prey larger than average from all taxa except the least profitable ones. As the active season progressed, and with a higher availability of food, the number of prey per stomach decreased and their mean ize increased. The effect of profitability on size selection decreased (June) and eventually vanished (July–August). This variation is probably related to seasonal changes in the ecology of lizards, e.g. time minimization in the breeding season as a means of saving time for nonforaging activities versus movement minimization by selecting fewer (but larger) prey in the postbreeding season. Thus, the hypothesis that maximizing profitability could be just an optional strategy for a terrestrial ectothermic vertebrate was supported by our data.
Diaz, J.A. & Diaz-Uriarte, R. & Rodriguez, J. (1996) -
Diaz, J.A. & Iraeta, P. & Monasterio, C. (2006) -
1. We compared the mean, limits and breadth of the preferred thermal range (PTR) of two Iberian populations of the lizard Psammodromus algirus separated by 700m altitude in May and July. 2. Seasonality had a pronounced effect on the mean and limits of PTR, but altitude and sex did not. The breadth of PTR remained constant between seasons. 3. The observed seasonal shift in PTR facilitated thermoregulation in May but not in July. 4. The location, breadth, and seasonal shift of PTR may be a result of the neurohormonal effects of the photoperiod and the functional implications of body temperature for muscle-contraction speed.
Díaz, J.A. & Iraeta, P. & Verdú-Ricoy, J. & Siliceo, I. & Salvador, A. (2012) -
Widely distributed terrestrial ectotherms from the southern European peninsulas show patterns of subdivision (related to isolation in temperate refugia) that allow us to test the relative importance of phylogeographic lineage, population of origin and familial effects as sources of variation for life-history traits. We collected gravid females from 15 geographically separated populations of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus, a widely distributed species with well differentiated eastern and western lineages. We incubated eggs under two treatments of constant (28°C) and fluctuating (28 ± 4°C) temperature, and we examined clutch, population, and lineage effects on several traits of females, eggs, and hatchlings. Incubation time was mainly explained by differences between lineages, but it was also influenced by population and female effects. Within each lineage, incubation was shorter at cooler and wetter sites, and for a given climate it was shorter for eastern than for western populations, suggesting that countergradient variation has evolved independently in the two lineages. Female size, clutch size, and relative fecundity were primarily influenced by inter-population differences, a pattern that seemed attributable to environmental differences in productivity, because mean female size was positively correlated with a gradient of increasing precipitation and decreasing temperature. Clutch size was mainly, but not entirely, dependent on female SVL, suggesting both a proximate effect of local conditions and intrinsic differences among populations. Females from drier and warmer sites produced larger hatchlings. Mean egg mass was mainly determined by familial effects. Eggs incubated at a constant temperature hatched earlier than did their siblings incubated at fluctuating temperatures, a fact that could be explained by considering that in Mediterranean environments developmental rate might increase at a lower speed above average incubation temperature than it does decrease below it.
Diaz, J.A. & Izquierdo-Santiago, R. & Llanos-Garrido, A. (2022) -
1. Although the effects of global warming on thermoregulation are usually ex-plored using predictions of climate envelop modelling, such effects should best be analysed empirically, studying the same population with the same methods after a long enough period of temperature rise.2. We used a 30-year long database about body temperatures (Tbs) of field-active Psammodromus algirus lizards inhabiting a well-conserved temperate open for-est, and we focused on the summers of 1997 and 2017 to compare Tbs, envi-ronmental operative temperatures (Tes), their proximity to the selected thermal range (Tsel), and the selection of sunlit and shaded patches all along the day. From these data, we estimated the precision (standard deviation of Tbs), accuracy (av-erage distance between Tbs and Tsel) and effectiveness (extent to which Tbs are closer to Tsel than Tes) of thermoregulation.3. Of the highest 5% of all Tbs in the database, 95% were recorded in 2017, when the adjustment to Tsel was much better for Tbs selected in a laboratory ther-mogradient than for field Tbs (percentages of Tbs above Tsel of 2% and 52% respectively).4. In 2017, especially after 12:00 h, the selection of shaded patches (87% of lizards in full shade vs. <1% in full sun) was more intense than in 1997, contributed more to overall thermoregulation, and produced a larger difference between Tes and Tbs. In spite of this, Tbs were lower—and closer to Tsel— in 1997 (when most shaded patches offered favourable thermal opportunities, with Tes within or below Tsel) than in 2017 (when only 33% of full shade Tes, and 8% of all Tes, were within or below Tsel). As a consequence, estimates of the accuracy and ef-fectiveness of thermoregulation decreased over the 20-year period examined.5. We conclude that given the low availability of Tes within or below Tsel, lizards cannot longer prevent the rise of their Tbs above Tsel, at least in hot summer days. Thus, the effects of global warming are already hindering the ability of lizards to buffer environmental change by behavioural means, even in temperate forests with a fine- grained mosaic of sun and shade patches.
Díaz, J.A. & Monasterio, C. & Salvador, A. (2006) -
The utility of radiotelemetry as a tool for estimating the size and microhabitat requirements of a population of Lacerta lepida, the largest European lacertid, was investigated in central Spain. Population density estimates based on repeated marking and recapture (3.2 lizards ha−1) were much higher than those based on line transects (0.22 lizards ha−1). The probability of sighting lizards before they could retreat into a refuge was largely increased by our ability to radiolocate them. Rocks were selected as refuges 96% of the times, and the locations of radiotracked lizards were much closer to rocks than randomly expected. Rocks used as retreat sites were larger and had more crevices than those available at random, which suggests that refuge selection was primarily determined by the need to find shelter from predators. Rockrose patches, which were positively selected, might be used as refuge-connecting corridors that combine shelter with opportunities to forage and thermoregulate. Our results emphasize the need for using radiotelemetry to establish baseline information on abundance and to clarify the actuality, extent and pattern of the population declines experienced by species that may function as key links in their ecosystems, but the wariness of which poses a serious problem for monitoring their conservation status.
Diaz, J.A. & Pérez-Tris, J. & Bauwens, D. & Pérez-Aranda, D. & Carbonell, R. & Santos, T., & Telleria, J.L. (2007) -
The range boundaries of organisms are frequently interpreted in terms of a decline in the extent to which the life histories of outer populations are able to adapt to local environmental conditions. To test this hypothesis, we compared the reproductive characteristics of two Iberian populations of the lizard Psammodromus algirus (Linnaeus, 1758). One of them (Lerma) is close to the northern edge of the species’ range, whereas the other one (El Pardo) occupies a typical core habitat 200 km further south. Gravid females were captured in the field and transported to the lab for egg laying. Second clutches were less frequent at Lerma (where clutch size and clutch mass were larger for first than for second clutches) than at El Pardo. The total mass of both clutches combined was similar at both sites. Thus, the higher frequency of second clutches at El Pardo appeared to balance the between-sites difference in energy allocation to the first clutch. Females from Lerma laid more but smaller eggs than those from El Pardo. When incubated at the same temperature, eggs from Lerma hatched sooner even when controlling for between-sites differences in mean egg size. These differences are interpreted in the light of the advantages of early hatching and high fecundity in the northern population, as opposed to large offspring size in the core population. We conclude that the life-history traits studied show enough variation, presumably of an adaptive nature, to cope with environmental challenges at the edge of the species’ range.
Diaz, J.A. & Pérez-Tris, J. & Telleria, J.L. & Carbonell, R. & Santos, T. (2005) -
We studied the effect of habitat fragmentation on female reproductive investment in a widespread lacertid lizard ( Psammodromus algirus) in a mixed-forest archipelago of deciduous and evergreen oak woods in northern Spain.We captured gravid females in fragments (≤10 ha) and forests (≥ 200 ha) and brought them to the laboratory, where they laid their eggs. We incubated the eggs and released the first cohort of juveniles into the wild to monitor their survival. Females from fragments produced a smaller clutch mass and laid fewer eggs (relative to mean egg mass) than females of similar body size from forests. Lizards did not trade larger clutches for larger offspring, however, because females from fragments did not lay larger eggs (relative to their number) than females from forests. Among the first cohort of juveniles, larger egg mass and body size increased the probability of recapture the next year. Thus, fragmentation decreased the relative fecundity of lizards without increasing the quality of their offspring. Reduced energy availability, increased predation risk, and demographic stochasticity could decrease the fitness of lizards in fragmented habitats, which could contribute to the regional scarcity of this species in agricultural areas sprinkled with small patches of otherwise suitable forest. Our results showthat predictable reduction of reproductive output with decreasing size of habitat patches can be added to the already known processes that cause inverse density dependence at low population numbers.
Diaz, J.A. & Verdú-Ricoy, J. & Iraeta, P. & Llanos-Garrido, A. & Pérez-Rodrigiuez, A. & Salvador, A. (2017) -
Aim: We examined dorsal coloration in and genetic relationships among Iberian populations of the lizard Psammodromus algirus to determine the extent to which the current distribution of phenotypic variation is correlated with phylogeographical history or local environmental conditions. -- Location: Iberian Peninsula, western Palaearctic. -- Methods: We sequenced mitochondrial DNA (ND4 and adjacent tRNAs genes) in 36 populations, and seven microsatellite loci in eight representative populations. In 23 populations, lizards were classified according to the presence and intensity of a dorsal striped pattern, the heritability of which was estimated by means of mother–offspring regressions. To determine whether colour pattern is an adaptation for crypsis, we compared the time taken by humans to detect striped and unstriped lizards in different environments. -- Results: The analysis of mtDNA revealed an ancient split between a western clade, subdivided into south- and north-western haplogroups, and an eastern clade with central, south-eastern and eastern haplogroups. In contrast, nuclear markers showed a post-glacial admixture of central and western haplogroups, with the central haplogroup apparently isolated from the rest of its clade. This was consistent with variation in the dorsal striped pattern, a heritable phenotypic trait: central and western lizards were unstriped, whereas eastern lizards were striped. We then suggest that dorsal coloration promotes crypsis: in eastern locations detection times were longer for striped than for unstriped lizards, whereas the opposite was true in western and central locations. Main conclusions Our results indicate that natural selection for crypsis may promote not only divergence within clades, as suggested by the apparent isolation between unstriped central lizards and striped members of eastern haplogroups, but also admixture between them. We conclude that ecologically driven selection is crucial for understanding the phylogeographical background of phenotypic variation, because recent adaptation to the environment can blur the effects of ancestral isolation.
Diaz, M. (1990) -
Diaz, M. & Lorenzo, A. (1991) -
Diaz, M. & Lorenzo, A. (1992) -
Plasma concentrations of aldosterone, sodium and potassium were measured in the lizard Gallotia galloti. Aldosterone concentrations in control animals were 29.48 ± 8.65 ng/dl, which falls within the range reported for this hormone in mammals. Peripheral sodium and postassium concentrations were 132.81 ± 2.28 and 5.77 ± 0.32 meq/l, respectively. Plasma aldosterone and sodium were negatively correlated. A positive relationship could be established between potassium concentration and aldosterone levels. Acute or chronic administration of exogenous aldosterone increased the circulating levels of this hormone, being maximal in chronically treated animals. However, although plasma concentrations of aldosterone were augmented by acute administration, the sodium concentration in the plasma was only elevated by chronic treatment. No further changes to potassium concentration could be observed under primary hyperaldosteronism conditions. The extent to which aldosterone may be implicated in the regulation of sodium and potassium transport in reptiles and its possible action on postrenal structures of electrolyte transport are discussed.
Diaz, M.& Lorenzo, A. & Badia, A. & Gomez, T. (1988) -
1. The effects of D-aldosterone on the electrical properties and ionic transport have been analysed (in vitro) in the colonic epithelium of the lizard, Gallotia galloti. 2. The injection of 30 g of D-aldosterone induced a significant rise of plasma aldosterone concentration, sustained for 4 hr after administration. 3. Intraperitoneal injections of D-aldosterone caused a slight reduction of transmural potential difference (PD) and short-circuit current (Isc). 4. Net absorption of Na+ across the colon from aldosterone-treated lizards did not increase when compared to colon from normal lizards. Cl- absorption was increased in treated lizards. 5. Addition of mucosal barium to treated tissues brought about a sustained increase of PD and Isc. 6. The absorption of fluid in normal lizards was reversed to fluid secretion in treated lizards. 7. The effects of D-aldosterone on lizard colon are compared with those reported for the colon of mammals and birds.
Diebschlag, E. (1938) -
Dieckmann, M. (2001) -
Dieckmann, M. (2004) -
Dieckmann, M. (2005) -
Dieckmann, M. (2006) -
During a vacation in May 2005 the island Dugi Otok was visited. Only two species of lacertid lizards (Podarcis melisellenis and P. sicula) seem to occur on this Dalmatian island while on most of the other islands, at least the more northem located Kvarner Islands, at least either three or four species occur.
Während eines einwöchigen Urlaubs im Bleniotal (Tessin, Schweiz) konnten die beiden dort lebenden Lacertidenarten, Lacerta bilineata bilineata und Podarcis muralis, in ihren Biotopen beobachtet werden.
Dieckmann, M. (2007) -
Während eines einwöchigen Aufenthaltes im September 2006 auf der mitteldalmatinischen Insel Brač konnten drei Lacertidenarten nachgewiesen werden. Aufgrund der zu diesem Zeitpunkt recht hohen Tempersaturen fielen die Beobachtungen allerdings recht spärlich aus.
Dieckmann, M. (2008) -
Dieckmann, M. (2011) -
The author could observe Blue-throated Keeled Lizards eating their own eggs. This is documented with photographs. Further conspicious behaviour is briefly reported.
Dieckmann, M. (2012) -
Es wird über die Efahrungen bei der Überwinterung von Lacerta agilis brevicaudata aus Armenien im Freilandterrarium berichtet.
The author describes the diversity of the flora and fauna at the former gypsum quarry Tettenborn-Kolonie near Bad Sachsa (Lower Saxony). Many of the documented plants and animals are listed as threatened species in the red List. The herpetofauna of theis area consists of the palmate newt, fore salamander, midwife toad, samooth snake, common lizard as well as the sand lizard. In conclusion the author points to the ecological valuation of ther gypsum mining.
Dieckmann, M. (2013) -
Dieckmann, M. (2015) -
Dieckmann, M. (2016) -
Here I describe the chelonians, which I found during my last holidays in France. Additionally I show animals and plants which I found in the same habitat, i.e. pine, cork trees, mosses, orchids and other plants, lizards, salamanders, snakes and frogs.
Dieckmann, M. (2017) -
Dieckmann, M. (2018) -
Dieckmann, M. (2019) -
Dieckmann, M. (2020) -
Dieckmann, M. (2022) -
Dieckmann, M. & Dieckmann, K. (2023) -
Dieckmann, M. & Ruhnke, F. (2010) -
Report on the finding of a melanistic specimen of Podarcis muralis at Ihringen at the Kaiserstuhl, Baden-Wuettemberg.
Dieckmann, M. & Ziesmann, S. (2009) -
Diego-Rasilla, F.J. (1999) -
Diego-Rasilla, F.J. (2001) -
Diego-Rasilla, F.J. (2003) -
Relationships between predator avoidance behaviour and predation pressure were investigated in the wall lizard, Podarcis muralis. The wariness of lizards belonging to high (1185 m) and low elevation (308 m) populations under two different predation pressure levels was compared. Wall lizards belonging to the lowland population experienced greater predation pressure than those belonging to the highland population. Lizards belonging to the population under higher predation pressure had higher frequency of refuge use, and had longer flight initiation distances (i.e. the distance lizards allowed the observer to approach before fleeing). In contrast, neither the distance fled (i.e. the total distance they fled in one continuous movement from the lizard’s initial position until hiding or stopping at a safe distance) nor the distance to the nearest refuge were significantly different between populations. Escape responses were independent of ambient temperature in the lowland population, but animals belonging to the highland population had longer flight initiation distances when the ambient temperatures were higher. These findings suggest that predator avoidance behaviour may vary with predation pressure.
To investigate whether lizards may learn by experience to recognize, judge the intentions of, and decide when to escape from a potential predator, the wariness of wall lizards, Podareis muralis, inhabiting a mountainous Spanish site frequented by tourists and another very close to it, scarcely accessible to people, was compared. Predation pressure on the area, estimated using soft plasticine replicas of lizards, seemed to be weak. Lizards at the tourist site were less wary, and had shorter approach distances (i.e., the distance lizards allowed the observer to approach before fleeing). Neither the total distance they fled in one continuous movement from their initial position until hiding or stopping at a safe distance (flight distance) nor the distance to the nearest refuge were significantly different between sites. Escape behaviour was not influenced by distance to cover at the tourist site, whereas, at the other, lizards were more wary, and fled from an approaching observer at greater distances when they were farther from a potential refuge.
Diego-Rasilla, F.J. (2009) -
Diego-Rasilla, F.J. (2022) -
Se informa sobre el comportamiento arborícola de ejemplares de Podarcis muralis que utilizan regularmente, como lugar de asoleamiento, el tronco de una buganvilla plantada en un jardín. Las observaciones se vienen repitiendo de modo habitual desde la primavera de 2013, cuando se observó este comportamiento por primera vez.
Diego-Rasilla, F.J. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2000) -
Individual time budgets under natural conditions and under increased popula- tion density conditions were studied in a population of Podarcis hispanica in Western Spain. We examined the effects of sex, time of day, and density on daily time budgets. Artificially increasing density indicated that demographic changes do affect time budgets, and that the animals initially respond with short-term compensatory behavior. We found that: (1) basking was the predominant behavior in time budgets of all lizards; (2) thermoregulatory patterns are affected by high population density; (3) our results confirm the hypothesis that density of population, and not sex, is a primary factor affecting basking behavior, i.e., high population density leads to increased basking; (4) social interaction frequency increased and percentage of time resting decreased at high population density.
Diego-Rasilla, F.J. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2001) -
Diego-Rasilla, F.J. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2003) -
A population of the lacertid lizard Podarcis hispanica was studied in the Sistema Central Mountains in Salamanca Province, Spain. Lizards confined their activities to stable home ranges, but size range varied enormously between individuals. Home ranges generally contained 1) a high proportion of rocks > 100 cm in height and 2) a significantly higher abundance of crevices than expected. The overall abundance of lizards increased with decreasing amounts of shrubs and herbaceous plants cover and densities were highest in bare and rocky areas. Adult females selected particular habitat types according to the season, whereas habitat selection of males and juveniles did not differ between spring and summer. Non-resident adult lizards and juveniles occupied habitats of marginal quality in relation to crevice abundance.
Diego-Rasilla, F.J. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2004) -
In this work we studied the effect of an experimental increment of density on survival of the Iberian wall lizard, Podarcis hispanica. The manipulation of adult males at the experimental plat located in the western zone of the Sistema Central (Iberian Peninsula). In our study area, P. hispanica shows one of the highest densities reported for Podarcis genus in the mainland. Densities not experimentally altered varied between 530 ha-1 and 920 ha-1, excluding hatchlings (Jolly-Seber model estimates). A departure from 1:1 sex-ratio was observed in the population under study, adult females being more numerous than adult males. Survival probability of adult males, residents and introduced, greatly decreased after the introduction of adult males at the experimental plot, but survivorship of adult females and subadult individuals of both sexes was not affected. Reduction in survival probability of resident and introduced males was directly related to density of introduced males. However, we did not detect any relation between their survival probability and density of resident adult males. Density could influence survival through competition. Thus, increment of density had a significant effect on frequency of aggressive encounters among adult males, but not on other age and sex categories. In spite of the fact that subadult individuals were not affected by the introduction of adult males at the experimental plot, their survival probability was significantly reduced when density of resident adult males increased, perhaps because of an asymmetric competition or interference from older individuals. In conclusion, our experimental increment of adult males density has evidenced a balanced demographic structure in relation to environmental resources, and that density does not have the same effect with respect to age and sex.
Diego-Rasilla, F.J. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Pérez-Cembranos, A. (2017) -
Several species of vertebrates exhibit spontaneous longitudinal body axis alignment relative to the Earth’s magnetic field (i.e., magnetic alignment) while they are performing different behavioural tasks. Since magnetoreception is still not fully understood, studying magnetic alignment provides evidence for magnetoreception and broadens current knowledge of magnetic sense in animals. Furthermore, magnetic alignment widens the roles of magnetic sensitivity in animals and may contribute to shed new light on magnetoreception. In this context, spontaneous alignment in two species of lacertid lizards (Podarcis muralis and Podarcis lilfordi) during basking periods was monitored. Alignments in 255 P. muralis and 456 P. lilfordi were measured over a 5-year period. The possible influence of the sun’s position (i.e., altitude and azimuth) and geomagnetic field values corresponding to the moment in which a particular lizard was observed on lizards’ body axis orientation was evaluated. Both species exhibited a highly significant bimodal orientation along the north-northeast and south-southwest magnetic axis. The evidence from this study suggests that free-living lacertid lizards exhibit magnetic alignment behaviour, since their body alignments cannot be explained by an effect of the sun’s position. On the contrary, lizard orientations were significantly correlated with geomagnetic.
Diel, A. & Geyer, J. & Monzel, M. (2023) -
In 2013, an allochthonous green-backed common wall lizard was recorded in Saarland near Beckingen. In 2014, at least two comparable individuals were documented near Mendig in the Rhineland-Palatinate. Then in 2022 in a basalt open pit mine in the eastern Eifel, the lead author found a green-backed individual as well as an autochthonous wall lizard with a striking turquoise ground colouration. The green-backed individuals can be phenotypically referred to as of the subspecies Podarcis muralis maculiventris-East / P m. nigrivenfris (central Italian lineage), which is allochthonous in Germany. However, since no genetic analyses were performed in these three areas, the allocation of subspecies status to the records is not certain and therefore can only be referred to as of the phenotypic type. In all three areas, the occurrences are presumably due to accidental importation or deliberate release.
Dieme, O. (2011) -
Dieme, O. (2014) -
Dierkes, H. (1973) -
Diesener, G. & Reichholf, J. (1986) -
Diesner, G. (1966) -
Dietermann, J. (2018) -
Dietrich, N. (1998) -
Dietrich, N. (2008) -
Diezel, C.E. (1856) -
Dijk, J.J. van (1996) -
Dijk, T. van (1997) -
Dijkgraaf, N.R. & Schils, M.H.P. (2000) -
Dijkhuis, L.J. (1944) -
Dimovski, A. (1967) -
Dimovski, A.S. (1959) -
Die in dieser Arbeit angeführten Arten wurden einzig von Dofelein (1921) gefunden und bis jetzt hat noch niemand ihre Fundorte bestätigt. Nachdem im Laufe der letzten Forschungen ich neuerding an der früheren, wie auch an einigen neuen Orten ihnen begegnet bin, gebe ich eine Übersicht über ihre jetztigen Fundorte.
Dinca, P.C. & Strugariu, A. & Stoica, D.L. & Zamirescu, S.R. (2014) -
Amphibians and reptiles are declining worldwide and information on their detailed distribution is key to proper conservation initiatives. This paper presents the results of a rapid survey on the composition and distribution of herpetofauna from the Taia River Valley (Hunedoara County, Romania), one of the many unstudied areas of the Southern Carpathians. We recorded the presence of three species of amphibians (Ichtyosaura alpestris, Bombina variegata and Rana temporaria) and three reptile species (Podarcis muralis, Lacerta agilis and Zootoca vivipara). The internationally threatened Yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata) was the most common amphibian in the study area.
Dipineto, L. & Raia, P. & Varriale, L. & Borrelli, L. & Botta, V. & Serio, C. & Caoasso, M. & Rinaldi, L. (2018) -
Background: New epidemiological data on bacterial and parasitic infections in 24 Italian wall lizards, namely Podarcis sicula (mainland population) and P. sicula klemmerii (insular population) in southern Italy were provided. To achieve this goal, samples were collected from individuals belonging to the two populations and analysed by microbiological and parasitological methods. Results: A wide range of bacteria (e.g. Pantoea spp., Citrobacter spp., Morganella spp., Pseudomonas, Enterobacter spp., Staphylococcus spp. And Escherichia coli) and parasites (e.g. Ophionyssus natricis, coccidia, Dicrocoelidae) were detected in both P. sicula and P. sicula klemmerii individuals. Insular population presented similar bacterial and parasitic diversity to its mainland counterpart. Ampicillin was the antimicrobial with the highest resistance rate. Conclusion: This study highlighted various bacteria and parasites, some of them potentially zoonotic. Further studies are needed to better understand the epidemiology and transmission routes of these pathogens along with their impact on the welfare and behaviour of Italian wall lizards.
Direction Regionale de l`Environment (2004) -
Disi, A.M. (1991) -
Systematics, distribution and ecology of 4 lizards of Jordan were studied: Uromastyx aegyptius microlepis, Lacerta laevis kulzeri, Lacerta trilineata israelica and Chalcides guentheri. All these species are new for Jordan. A revised list of the lizards of Jordan is given as an appendix.
Disi, A.M. (1996) -
Zoogeographically, the Jordanian herpetofauna is heterogeneous, originating from four biogeographical regions (Oriental, Palearctic, Saharo-Sindian, and Afrotropical) and occupying four different ecozones. Ninetythree species and subspecies of amphibians and reptiles are recorded from Jordan, showing different distribution patterns. The Mediterranean ecozone harbours the highest number (35) of recorded species, followed by the Sudanian Tropical penetration zone (16), and the Badyiah ecozone (12), respectively. Jordan is not separated by natural boundaries from the surrounding countries, which prevents the operation of isolation mechanisms, and seems to result in the absence of endemism. There are, however, three areas of endemism within the Eastern Mediterranean region taken as one whole unit: the Badyiah shared by Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Jordan, the northern part of the Mediterranean ecozone shared by Lebanon, Israel, Syria and Jordan, and southwest Jordan, Israel and Sinai. Some Palearctic species such as Coluber schmidti and C. ravergieri are relicts of the postglacial period and continue to survive in refugal enclaves with delicate ecological patterns. The distribution of some species, such as Bufo viridis, Mauremys caspica rivulata, Natrix tessellata, Coluber ventromaculatus, C. jugularis asianus, Walterinnesia aegyptia, and Vipera palaestinae, has been greatly influenced by climatic as well as anthropogenic changes.
Disi, A.M. (2011) -
The lizard fauna of Jordan is very diverse and forms 55.5% of the terrestrial herpetofauna of the country. Lizard species of Arabian origin form the highest percentage (43%) of the lizards, followed by Saharo-Sindian (35%), Palaearctic (20%) and only 2% with Afrotropical affinities. 69.1% of the lizard species inhabit two ecozones: Badia (Eastern Desert); and Wadi Araba and Wadi Rum. The Badia may form the focal point for the evolution of certain Acanthodactylus species. Jordan forms the southernmost limit of the distribution of some Palaearctic species (i.e. Lacerta media, L. laevis, Pseudopus apodus) and they inhabit the Mediterranean ecozone. The presence of diverse habitats in Jordan allowed certain allopatric congeneric species of the genus Ptyodactylus to live in isolation from one another. Southern Jordan and Wadi Rum are part of the Levantine land bridge and act as a “biogeographical filter”. Most of the species found in Wadi Rum are of Arabian affinities and their distribution does not extend towards the west.
Disi, A.M. & Amr, Z.S. (1998) -
As Petra is increasingly becoming a major tourism destination in Jordan, this underlies not only challenges to conserve the habitats and species in Petra but also offers great opportunities to promote academic research and investigation, demonstrate sustainable development and initiation of environmentally sound development and nature based tourism. This investigation is based on both desktop studies and field missions. The desktop part is relied on reviewing various studies and reports that highlighting natural resources in the area. Two field missions were conducted aiming to document various information from related authorities and institutions operating in Petra and also to undertake ground truthing of habitats and species information. The missions also included interviews with Park staff, representatives from ongoing projects and initiatives in Petra (Seyaha-USAID) and many locals belonging to various tribes in Wadi Musa and The Bdul. The study presents a synthesis to findings from these studies and visits. Broadly, the park can be zoned into three mega zones: 1) Wadi Arabah and the steep gorges to the west including the Artemisia and annual grasses steppe to the west, 2) Mountainous ridges and rocky slopes of the Mediterranean region located almost centrally in the park and at the southern limit and part of the eastern borders and 3) Central basin and steep limestone scarps and weathered sandstone. Based on lists of key and indicator species, some key/sensitive sites of conservation value have been suggested. Aspects of grazing, agricultural activities, tourism and water resources and their implications on management schemes have been discussed.
Disi, A.M. & Böhme, W. (1996) -
Zoogeographically, the Syrian herpetofauna is heterogeneous, originating from four biogeographical regions (Oriental, Palearctic, Saharo-Sindian and Afrotropical) and is characterized by the presence of five ecozones. 50% of the terrestrial herpetofaunal species are of palaearetic affinity while 32.3%, 14.6% and 3.1% are of Saharo-Sindian, Arabian and Afrotropical affinities, respectively. Five records of reptiles are new to the Syrian fauna: Emys orbicularis, Acanthodactylus opheodurus, Acanthodactylus schreiben syriacus, Pseudotrapelus sinaitus, Uromastyx aegyptia microlepis, and Lepto- typhlops macrorhynchus; Coluber rogersi is reported for the second time. An updated list of the herpetofauna of Syria is given.
Disi, A.M. & Modry, D. & Necas, P. & Rifai, L. (2001) -
Divers, S.J. & Lafortune, M. & Martinez Silvestre, A. & Pether, J. (2003) -
In June 1999, a species of lizard previously considered extinct was rediscovered on the island of La Gomera, Spain. The giant gomeran lizard, Gallotia bravoana, is highly endangered and at risk of extinction by the feral cat population. A conservation effort to save the species was initiatived by the regional and central Spanish government and six lizards were captured and brought into captivity. This paper describes the results of the initial assessment of the health of the animals, by a physical examination and by haematological, biochemical, radiographical and coprological investigations. The methods used to maintain the animals in captivity are described and the first captive breeding success is reported.
Dixon, J.R. (1956) -
Djellali, H. & Rouag, R. & Grauche, H. (2006) -
Dobbeleers, W. (2011) -
Dobrovolskaja, H. (1964) -
Dobrowolska, H. (1985) -
Dodt, E. & Scherer, E. (1968) -
Photic responses were recorded, by means of metal electrodes, from the parietal organ of the lizard, Lacerta sicula campestris, after removal of the interparietal scale. Graded (slow) responses and changes of impulse activity of one or several nerve cells were seen in response to illumination. The action of light was either excitatory or inhibitory, inhibition being associated with a positive graded potential at the recording electrode. The graded response changed polarity with the wavelength of the test stimulus in the blue-green region of the spectrum (blue-green biphasic response exhibiting luminosity maxima at 450 and 520 nm). Further, there is a triphasic chromativity type of response which, additionally to the inhibitory effect of blue light, manifests itself by the excitatory effect of violet and red light upon subsequent illumination to blue light. Similar to the a- and b-waves of the frog`s electroretinogram the positive graded response of the parietal eye decreases during dark adaptation while the negative response increases. Positive and negative components of the graded response differ in the rate of change during dark adaptation and in the luminanceduration relationship. The absolute threshold of the parietal organ amounts to 0,5 asb (excitatory threshold of the discharge response for dark adapted state). Allowing for the light absorption by the overlaying tissue the absolute threshold of the parietal organ in situ is 2,5 asb.
Dohogne, R. (2003) -
Doi, H. (1920) -
Doi, H. (1929) -
Dolce, S. (1981) -
Dolce, S. & Lapini, L. (1987) -
Dolce, S. & Lapini, L. & Sterguld, F. (1982) -
Preliminary investigations on the herpetofauna of the lower plain of Friuli. Eco-ethological notes on Amphibians and Reptiles of `Bosco Baredi` and `Selva di Arvonchi` (Muzzana del Turgnano, Udine). -- The lower plain of southern Friuli, ranging from the `line of springs` until the sea, is characterized by the presence of plain-growing woods, now reduced to very small surfaces. Their main feature is the high level of the subsoil water, which, owing to the clayey ground, is very near to the soil surface or even emerging during some periods of the year. This survey is a preliminary investigation on the herpetological species living in this environment, the researches are now carried on in the forest called `Bosco Baredi` and `Selva di Arvonchi`, belonging to the Commune of Muzzana del Turgnano, in the Province of Udine (Italy). The community of Amphibians included eight species (Triturus vulgaris meridionalis Boul., Triturus cristatus carnifex Laur., Bombina variegata variegata L., Bufo bufo spinosus Daud., Hyla arborea arborea L., Rana esculenta — complex, Rana dalmatina Bon, and Rana latastei Boul.) and so also the population of Reptiles (Emys orbicularis (L.), Lacerta viridis viridis (Laur.), Anguis fragilis fragilis L., Coluber viridiflavus carbonarius Bon., Coronella austriaca Laur., Elaphe longissima longissima (Laur.), Natrix natrix (L.) and Vipera aspis francisciredi (Laur.). Instead it was not possible to establish the presence of Salamandra salamandra salamandra L., Bufo viridis viridis Laur. and Pelobates fuscus insubricus Corn. Eco-ethological data on the observed herpetological species are given, particularly on their biology, reproduction period, annual activity, frequented substrates, in connection to special climatic factors as the temperature of the water and of the substrates frequented by the specimens. Some bromatological observations on the Ophidians living in this wood could be carried on. It was established that the predation of Vipera aspis (L.) includes in addition to several species of small Mammals also Rana dalmatina Bon. and/or Rana latastei Boul. and interfers with Natrix natrix (L.), which usually eats Amphibians. The importance of the still existing residual planitial woods is underlined in the conclusions. These woods represent typical refugium habitats for many stenotopic species tied to specially humid and fresh microclimates.
Dolle, H. (1963) -
Dollfus, R.-P. (1950) -
Dolotovskaya, S.I. & Chirikova, M. & Solovyeva, E.N. & Poyarkov, N.A. & Wan, L. & Orlova, V.F. (2007) -
Domènech, S. (1997) -
Domeneghetti, D. & Mondini, S. & Bruni, G. (2016) -
Domingo, M.A. (1995) -
New data on the distribution of the ocellated lizard Lacerta lepida in Alava (Basque Country) are brought forward. They discover a much wider range than the one formerly known.
Domingues, M.J. & Robinson, P.A. & Bowker, R.G. (1992) -
Interactions between lizards may differ depending on whether they encounter conspecifics or different species, and agonistic behavior and tolerance have been the subject of many studies (BRATTSTROM 1982, CARPENTER 1960, CREWS & FITZGERALD 1980, GRASSMAN& CREWS 1987, MILSTEAD 1957, STAMPS & TANA- KA 1981). Podarcis bocagei (Lacertilia: Lacertidae) is a common arboreal/saxico- lous lizard in north central Portugal. Males and females are sexually dimorphic. Cnemidophorus velox (Teiidae) is a terrestrial, all-female, triploid, parthenogenetic lizard found in deserts at relatively high altitudes in New Mexico, USA Both species are widely foraging insectivores, however, P. bocagei is territorial and has extended foraging times both daily and seasonally (GiL et al. 1988) whereas C. velox is not territorial and is active briefly during the day in the summer (BowKER et al. 1986). Both species frequently encounter conspecifics in nature. Here we examine social interactions occurring when conspecific individuals meet under laboratory conditions designed to encourage social interactions. The overall goals are to determine if a dominance hierarchy exists, to determine the intensity of intraspecific interactions, and finally to establish correlates with dominance and aggressive/submissive behavior.
Domingues, V. & Godinho, R. & Ferrand, N. & Crespo, E.G. (2001) -
Dominguez-Casanova, F. (1994) -
Dominguez, J.F. & Salvador, A (1990) -
Food availability and diet composition were examined in sympatric populations of Lacerta schreiberi and Podarcis bocagei at a locality in the Cantabrian mountains (province of León, Spain). Neither species uses trophic resources in proportion to their relative abundance. Extensive overlap in diet composition has been found between P. bocagei and juvenile L. schreiberi. Although both species feed mainly on spiders, juvenile L. schreiberi eat the most abundant and P. bocagei select larger prey sizes. Subadult and adult L. schreiberi select beetles and grasshoppers.
Dominguez, J.F. & Salvador, A. (1989) -
Dominguez, L. & Elvira, B. & Vigal, C.R. (1981) -
Dominguez, L. & Elvira, B. & Vigal, C.R. (1982) -
Donald, H.C.F. & Foster, J. & Wilkinson, J.W. & Hill, P. & Barber, M. & Mee, G. & Edgar, P. & Marschang, R.E. & Sainsburgy, A.W. (2021) -
In this study, we describe two novel adenoviruses isolated from (i) a common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) found dead and examined post-mortem and (ii) pooled samples from free-living sand lizards (Lacerta agilis agilis). Sequencing indicated the two were closely related atadenovirus strains which were distinct from previously recorded adenoviruses in lizards. Adenoviruses are not always associated with disease in squamates, but morbidity and mortality have been reported. These are the first known cases of adenovirus infection in free-living native British lizards, and further monitoring will be necessary to elucidate the implications of these possible pathogens for vulnerable populations of native reptiles.
Donev, A. (1984) -
Donev, A.D. & Mollov, I.A. & Kechev, M.O. (2005) -
A study on the trophic spectrum of three species of lacertid lizards (Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis and Podarcis taurica) was carried out, based on 32 specimens collected in the period 1959-1968 in various localities in South Bulgaria. The analyzed data showed that the insects (Insecta) are the most numerous and the most frequently met among the alimentary components of the total amount of food of the studied stomachs. The insects consisted 80,0% of the total amount of food of Lacerta agilis, 88,8% of Lacerta viridis and 72,6% of Podarcis taurica. The insects were mainly presented by Coleoptera (Lacerta agilis - 40,0%, Lacerta viridis – 66,6% and Podarcis taurica – 30,2%) followed by Diptera and larvae of Lepidoptera. The noninsect components consisted spiders (Lacerta viridis - 7,4%, Podarcis taurica - 16,6%), amphipods (Podarcis taurica - 3,1%) and gastropods (Lacerta agilis – 20,0%). In our opinion, the variety of the trophic spectrum of each species suggests that most likely there isn’t strong competition for food between these three species of lizards in their sympatric localities.
Dong, B.-J. & Zhao, W.-G. & Liu, Z.-T. & Liu, P. & Chen, H. (2007) -
This paper deals with preliminary studies on tail autotomy and regeneration in the common lizard Lacerta vivipara from 2001 to 2006 in Heilongjiang Province.The results showed that the percent of tail autotomy was 28.26% in neonates and 45.45% in adults,which could be explained that more survival pressure in adults.Activity time was related with the length and the position of the severed tails.The growth speed of regeneration tails was more quickly than original tails and a scale of squama was the longest in regeneration tails.
Dong, B.J. & Zhao, W.G. & Liu, Z.T. & Liu, P. (2004) -
Donihue, C. (2016) -
Microgeographic variation in fitness-relevant traits may be more common than previously appreciated. The fitness of many vertebrates is directly related to their locomotor capacity, a whole-organism trait integrating behavior, morphology, and physiology. Because locomotion is inextricably related to context, I hypothesized that it might vary with habitat structure in a wide-ranging lizard, Podarcis erhardii, found in the Greek Cyclade Islands. I compared lizard populations living on human-built rock walls, a novel habitat with complex vertical structure, with nearby lizard populations that are naive to human-built infrastructure and live in flat, loose-substrate habitat. I tested for differences in morphology, behavior, and performance. Lizards from built sites were larger and had significantly (and relatively) longer forelimbs and hindlimbs. The differences in hindlimb morphology were especially pronounced for distal components—the foot and longest toe. These morphologies facilitated a significant behavioral shift in jumping propensity across a rocky experimental substrate. I found no difference in maximum velocity between these populations; however, females originating from wall sites potentially accelerated faster over the rocky experimental substrate. The variation between these closely neighboring populations suggests that the lizards inhabiting walls have experienced a suite of trait changes enabling them to take advantage of the novel habitat structure created by humans.
Donihue, C.M. (2016) -
Foraging mode is a functional trait with cascading impacts on ecological communities. The foraging syndrome hypothesis posits a suite of concurrent traits that vary with foraging mode; however, comparative studies testing this hypothesis are typically interspecific. While foraging modes are often considered typological for a species when predicting foraging-related traits or mode-specific cascading impacts, intraspecific mode switching has been documented in some lizards. Mode-switching lizards provide an opportunity to test foraging syndromes and explore how intraspecific variability in foraging mode might affect local ecological communities. Because lizard natural history is intimately tied to habitat use and structure, I tested for mode switching between populations of the Aegean wall lizard, Podarcis erhardii, inhabiting undisturbed habitat and human-built rock walls on the Greek island of Naxos. I observed foraging behavior among 10 populations and tested lizard morphological and performance predictions at each site. Furthermore, I investigated the diet of lizards at each site relative to the available invertebrate community. I found that lizards living on rock walls were significantly more sedentary—sit and wait—than lizards at nonwall sites. I also found that head width increased in females and the ratio of hindlimbs to forelimbs in both sexes increased as predicted. Diet also changed, with nonwall lizards consuming a higher proportion of sedentary prey. Lizard bite force also varied significantly between sites; however, the pattern observed was opposite to that predicted, suggesting that bite force in these lizards may more closely relate to intraspecific competition than to diet. This study demonstrates microgeographic variability in lizard foraging mode as a result of human land use. In addition, these results demonstrate that foraging mode syndromes can shift intraspecifically with potential cascading effects on local ecological communities.
Species are capable of adapting to new and rapidly changing environmental contexts. An emerging research frontier in ecology and evolutionary biology is predicting the cascading effects of these adaptations on ecological dynamics and ecosystem services. Making these predictions first requires an understanding of how, when, and why traits change. A `functional trait` approach may provide a framework for understanding context-driven changes in traits and their cascading impacts. My dissertation has focused the argument for rapid trait changes in human contexts, and has empirically tested drivers of functional trait changes in the Aegean wall lizard, Podarcis erhardii. Functional traits are those that mediate a biotic interaction or ecosystem function of interest. Maximum bite capacity is a functional trait in many lizards as it dictates the lizard`s ability to capture and consume prey and protect valuable resources from competitors. In chapter 1, I made use of a natural inter-island gradient in P. erhardii bite force across the Cyclade Islands to determine that variation in this functional trait was more related to intra-specific competition than shifts in diet. In chapters 2 and 3 I tested the impact of human-built stone walls and terraces on another lizard functional trait, foraging mode. I found that lizards on walls adopted a relatively sit-and-wait foraging mode, in contrast to lizards in undisturbed habitats, which actively foraged for their prey. I went on to test a predicted syndrome of morphological, behavioral, and performance traits associated with foraging mode. I found that, according to predictions, the sit-and-wait predators had wider heads and longer legs, facilitating jumping, and capturing a higher proportion of active prey. My final chapter lays out a conceptual argument for the utility of human-dominated settings, specifically cities, for furthering our understanding of these ecoevolutionary dynamics. Because cities are functioning ecosystems that present myriad adaptive drivers, they may serve as replicate macrocosms for understanding how species adapt to new ecological contexts and what effect those adaptations may have on ecological dynamics. My dissertation has documented substantial variability in several lizard functional traits across biogeographic and anthropogenic contexts. Collectively, this dissertation demonstrates the importance of understanding intraspecific variability on ecological dynamics, makes the case for humans as instigators of functional trait changes, and lays the groundwork for future advances in the study of evolutionary-ecological feedbacks in human-dominated landscapes.
Donihue, C.M. (2017) -
Donihue, C.M. & Brock, K.M. & Foufopoulos, J. & Herrel, A. (2016) -
1.Body size often varies among insular populations relative to continental conspecifics – the “island rule” – and functional, context-dependent morphological differences tend to track this body size variation on islands.2.Two hypotheses are often proposed as potential drivers of insular population differences in morphology: one relating to diet, and the other involving intra-specific competition and aggression. We directly tested whether differences in morphology and maximum bite capacity were explained by inter-island changes in hardness of both available as well as consumed prey, and levels of lizard-to-lizard aggression among small-island populations.3.Our study included 11 islands in the Greek Cyclades and made use of a gradient in island area spanning five orders of magnitude. We focused on the widespread lizard Podarcis erhardii.4.We found that on smaller islands, P. erhardii body size was larger, head height was larger relative to body size, and maximum bite capacity became proportionally stronger.5.This pattern in morphology and performance was not related to differences in diet, but was highly correlated with proxies of intra-specific aggression – bite scars and missing toes.6.Our findings suggest that critical functional traits such as body size and bite force in P. erhardii follow the predictions of the island rule and are changing in response to changes in the competitive landscape across islands of different sizes.
Donihue, C.M. & Herrel, A. & Foufopoulos, J. & Paflis, P. (2021) -
Over-water dispersal to small islets is an important eco-evolutionary process. Most often, new arrivals on islets find the environment harsh or mate-less, making their footholds on these islets fleeting. Occasionally, introduced animals are able to survive the strong selection following their arrival, leading to subsequent propagation and, in several famous cases, adaptive radiation. What traits predict that initial survival? We established a replicated island introduction experiment to investigate this process in lizards. In 2014, we introduced 20 Podarcis erhardii lizards to each of five small islets in the Greek Cyclades Islands. We found that the lizards that survived were those with better initial body condition, longer distal portions of their limbs and a greater propensity for jumping. Contrary to our expectations, neither body size nor the strength of the lizards’ bite – two traits positively related to competitive ability, which becomes important later in the colonization process in lizards – predicted survival. This is the first selection study of its kind investigating an experimental introduction of Podarcis, and whether the traits that determined initial survival are important in driving the future evolutionary trajectories of these populations remains to be determined.
Donihue, C.M. & Herrel, A. & Martin, J. & Foufopoulos, J. & Pafilis, P. & Baeckens, S. (2020) -
1. Studies of animal communication have documented myriad rapid, contextdependent changes in visual and acoustic signal design. In contrast, relatively little is known about the capacity of vertebrate chemical signals to rapidly respond, either plastically or deterministically, to changes in context. 2. Four years following an experimental introduction of lizards to replicate experimental islets, we aimed to determine if chemical signal design of the experimental populations differed from that of the source population. 3. In 2014, we translocated Podarcis erhardii lizards from a large, predator-rich island to each of five replicate predator-free islets. Mean population densities increased fivefold over the following 4 years and bite scars suggest significantly more intraspecific fighting among these experimental populations. In 2018, we analysed the chemical signal design of males in each of the experimental populations and compared it to the chemical signals of the source population. 4. We found that males consistently presented a significantly more complex chemical signal compared to the source population. Moreover, their chemical signals were marked by high proportions of octadecanoic acid, oleic acid and α-tocopherol, the three compounds that are known to be associated with lizard territoriality and mate choice. 5. Our island introduction experiment thus suggests that the chemical signal design of animals can shift rapidly and predictably in novel ecological contexts
Donihue, C.M. & Herrel, A. & Taverne, M. & Foufopoulos, J. & Pafilis, P. (2023) -
Resource-limited environments may drive the rapid evolution of phenotypic traits and ecological preferences optimizing the exploitation of resources. Very small islands are often charac- terized by reduced food availability, seasonal fluctuations in resources and strong unpredictability. These features may drive the evolution of phenotypic traits such as high bite forces, allowing animals to exploit a wider variety of the available resources. They may also lead to more generalist dietary patterns in response to food scarcity. However, the lack of predators and competitors on such small islands often also leads to high densities and the evolution of strong sexual dimorphism, which may also drive the evolution of bite force. Here, we take advantage of a unique replicated introduction experiment to test whether lizards introduced into very small islands alter their feeding ecology and use different resources, resulting in the evolution of a large body size, large head size and large bite forces. Our results show that three years after their introduction, the island lizards were larger and had greater bite forces and more pronounced sexual dimorphism. However, the diets were only marginally different between animals from the source population on a very large nearby island and those on the islets. Moreover, distinct differences in diet between animals on the different islets were observed, suggesting that the local environment is a strong driver of resource use. Overall, lizards with absolutely and relatively (adjusted for body size) large bite forces did eat larger and harder prey. Taken together, our data suggest that intraspecific competition is an important driver of the rapid evolution of bite force, which may allow these lizards to exploit the scarce and fluctuating resources on the islets. Whether or not lizards will evolve to include other types of food such as plants in their diet, facilitated by their large bite forces, remains to be explored in future studies.
Donihue, C.M. & Herrel, A. & Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Foufopoulos, J. & Pafilis, P. (2018) -
Donihue, C.M. & Lambert, M.R. (2015) -
Donihue, C.M. & Lambert, M.R. & Watkins-Colwell, G.J. (2014) -
Doniol-Valcroze, P. & Geniez, P. & Crochet, P.-A. (2023) -
Doniol-Valcroze, P. & Rancilhac, L. & Brito, J.-C. & Miralles, A. & Geniez, P. & Benoit, L. & Loiseau, A. & Leblois, R. & Dufresnes, C. & Crochet, P.-A. (2023) -
Uncertainties on species taxonomy and distribution are major factors hampering efficient conservation planning in the current context of biodiversity erosion, even concerning widespread and abundant species in relatively well-studied regions. Species delimitation have long been based on phylogenetic analyses of a small number of standard markers, but accurate lineage identification through this approach can be hampered by incomplete lineage sorting, introgression or isolation by distance. In that context, analyses of introgression patterns at secondary contact zones offer an interesting alternative by allowing a direct estimation of reproductive isolation, especially when using genome-wide markers. Here, we investigated a contact zone between two genetic groups of the Spiny-footed Lizard Acanthodactylus erythrurus (Schinz, 1833) in Morocco, whose status as separate lineages remained disputed in previous multilocus studies. Based on thousands of genome-wide markers obtained through a RADseq approach, we confirmed that they represent distinct evolutionary lineages. Furthermore, the transition at their contact zone was very steep, with spatially restricted gene flow, highlighting levels of reproductive isolation consistent with species-level lineages. Our study further illustrates the power of RADseq-based studies of contact zones to understand cryptic diversity in non-model organisms.
Donkelaar, H.J. ten & Boer-van Huizen, R. de (1978) -
Dopereira, D. & Novo, N. & Fachado, A.B. & Ron, N. & Salgado, M. (2021) -
Dorda, J. (1984) -
Doré, F. (2008) -
Doré, F. & Cheylan, M. & Grillet, P. (2015) -
Doré, F. & Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.-M. & Besnard, A. & Cheylan, M. (2011) -
The Ocellated Lizard Timon lepidus (Sauria ; Lacertidae) has declined throughout most of its range. Today it is difficult to assess the extent of this decline. The Ocellated Lizard population of Oléron Island (Charente- Maritime, France) is the subject of a long-term monitoring study established in 2007. This study is repeated every 3 years to follow the population evolution. The population is confined to a long-shore dune of 140 ha. The monitoring method consists of 70 plots (50 x 50 m) randomly placed within a study area divided into six distinct zones. Three surveys were conducted in the study area over the spring season (April, May and June). Results were analysed with PRESENCE 3.0 (Beta) and R 2.8.1. The Ocellated Lizard has a highly heterogeneous distribution on Oléron Island. The site-occupancy model allows us to conclude that the probability of detecting the species in the plots increases over the field. In 2010, this probability was 0.78 in April and 0.97 in May and June. The estimated proportion of occupied sites was 0.83 in 2010 and 0.76 in 2007. Colonization and local extinction are the consequences of the evolution of available shelters (colonization if this resource increases and extinction if it disappears) and of the coastal erosion (habitat loss). The relative abundance of Ocellated Lizards on the island (modeling with the N-mixture model) can be principally explained by the presence of permanent shelters (used both during winter and the lizards’ active period), including rabbit and rodent burrows and artificial shelters. Rabbits are essential and their maintaining is crucial for the Ocellated Lizard conservation. The Ocellated Lizard population size was estimated to be 1025 individuals (95 % CI 695-1355) in 2010. This monitoring survey will be replicated in 2013. Results will help us in evaluating and guiding management and conservation measures.
Doré, F. & Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.-M. & Besnard, A. Cheylan, M. (2011) -
The ocellated lizard Timon lepidus (Sauria; Lacertidae) has declined throughout most of its range. Habitat fragmentation and habitat loss seem to be mainly responsible for the species` decline. The ocellated lizard population of Oleron Island, confined to a longshore dune of 140 ha, is the subject of a long-term monitoring study established in 2007. The monitoring method consists of 70 plots (50 × 50 m) randomly placed within a study area divided into six distinct zones. Three surveys were conducted in the study area over the spring season of 2007. During each survey, we counted the individuals in each plot. These counts were analyzed with the PRESENCE 2.0 and the R package Unmarked software using two different modeling approaches, the `site-occupancy model` and the `N-mixture model`. Estimates resulting from our analyses indicated the proportion of occupied plots to be 0.76. Our results indicated that the ocellated lizard has a highly heterogeneous distribution on Oleron Island, with parts of the dune sheltering clusters of lizards, and other areas totally unoccupied. The population size was estimated to be 516 individuals (95% CI 248-783). The relative abundance of ocellated lizards on the island can be principally explained by the presence of permanent shelters (used both during winter and the lizards` active period), including rabbit and rodent burrows and artificial shelters. This monitoring survey will be replicated every three years to enable us to calculate the species` colonization and local extinction probabilities. These results will help in evaluating and guiding management and conservation measures.
Doré, F. & Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.-M. & Cheylan, M. (2017) -
Doré, F. & Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.M. & Bernard, V. (2008) -
Doré, F. & Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.M. & Bernard, V. & Cheylan, M. (2009) -
Doré, F. & Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.M. & Cheylan, M. & Besnard, A. (2010) -
Doré, F. & Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.M. & Cheylan, M. & Lefebvre, S. & Dauge, C. (2009) -
Doré, F. & Thirion, J.M. (2012) -
Doré, R. (1983) -
Dorenbosch, M. (1997) -
Dorenbosch, M. & Hoof, P.H. & Krekels, R.F.M. (2001) -
Doronin I.V. (2017) -
The paper provides data on the current location of the type specimens of Darevskia (rudis) complex as of July 2017: Podarcis depressa Camerano, 1878 (syntypes – MZUT R2737.1-3, NHM 1946.9.1.31-32), Lacerta depressa var. rudis Bedriaga, 1886 (lectotype – MZUT 2737.1, paralectotypes – MZUT 2737.2-3, NHM 1946.9.1.32), Lacerta depressa var. modesta Bedriaga, 1886 (syntype – NHM 1946.9.1.31), Lacerta saxicola Subsp. bithynica Méhely, 1909 (lectotype [here designated] – ZISP 17128, paralectotype – NMW 11685), Lacerta saxicola tristis Lantz et Cyrén, 1936 (lectotype – GNM 2481, paralectotypes – GNM 2482-2485, 2487 and GNM one unnumbered specimen), Lacerta saxicola obscura Lantz et Cyrén, 1936 (lectotype [here designated] – ZISP ZISP 17171.1, paralectotypes – NHM 1966.769.773, ZISP 14435, 14436, 14437, 14438, 14439, 14440, 14442, 15402, 16290, 17057.1- 3, 17058, 17059.1-3, 17171.2-26, 17172.1-15), Lacerta rudis macromaculata Darevsky, 1967 (holotype – ZISP 17940.6, paratypes – ZISP 17440.1-18, the location of three paratypes is unknown), Lacerta rudis bischoffi Böhme et Budak, 1977 (holotype – ZDEU 183/977, paratypes – ZDEU 222/976:1, 3-6, 8-9, ZDEU 183/977.2-10, ZFMK 22062.63), Lacerta rudis svanetica Darevsky et Eiselt, 1980 (holotype – ZISP 17875.1, paratypes – ZISP 17875.2-8, 17814.1-18, NMW 24138.1-6), Lacerta rudis chechenica Eiselt et Darevsky, 1991 (holotype – NMW 33504.1, paratypes – ZISP 17878.1-13, 17882.2-4, ZISP 18374.1-5, 18781.1-6, 19545.1-13, ZFMK 16448.52, 29262, 38037.45, 40431-33, NMW 32619.1,2, 33504.2,4,5), Darevskia rudis mirabilis Arribas, Ilgaz, Kumlutaş, Durmuş, Avci et Üzüm, 2013 (holotype – ZDEU 145/2002.9, paratypes – ZDEU 145/2002.1-8, 10-18, O. Arribas private collection (1-6)), Darevskia rudis bolkardaghica Arribas, Ilgaz, Kumlutaş, Durmuş, Avci et Üzüm, 2013 (holotype – ZDEU 144/2009.6, paratypes – ZDEU 144/2009.1-5, 7-8, O. Arribas private collection (1-4)). Strictly following the ICZN the name Lacerta depressa var. rudis Bedriaga, 1886 should not be considered as the replacement name (nomen novum) for Podarcis depressa Camerano, 1878, but the only available name. The history of description of all known forms of the complex is given. Localities, collectors and dates of collection of the type specimens are clarified.
Доронин И.В. (2017) -
В работе приводится информация о современном месте хранения типовых экземпляров ящериц комплекса Darevskia (rudis) по состоянию на июль 2017 г.: Podarcis depressa Camerano, 1878 (синтипы – MZUT R2737.1- 3, NHM 1946.9.1.31-32), Lacerta depressa var. rudis Bedriaga, 1886 (лектотип – MZUT 2737.1, паралектотипы – MZUT 2737.2-3, NHM 1946.9.1.32), Lacerta depressa var. modesta Bedriaga, 1886 (синтип – NHM 1946.9.1.31), Lacerta saxicola Subsp. bithynica Méhely, 1909 (лектотип [обозначается здесь] – ZISP 17128, паралектотип – NMW 11685), Lacerta saxicola tristis Lantz et Cyrén, 1936 (лектотип – GNM 2481, паралектотипы – GNM 2482-2485, 2487 и GNM один экземпляр без номера), Lacerta saxicola obscura Lantz et Cyrén, 1936 (лекто- тип [обозначается здесь] – ZISP 17171.1, паралектотипы – NHM 1966.769.773, ZISP 14435-14440, 14442, 15402, 16290, 17057.1-3, 17058, 17059.1-3, 17171.2-26, 17172.1-15), Lacerta rudis macromaculata Darevsky, 1967 (голотип – ZISP 17940.6, паратипы – ZISP 17440.1-18, местонахождение трех паратипов неизвестно), Lacerta rudis bischoffi Böhme et Budak, 1977 (голотип – ZDEU 183/977, паратипы – ZDEU 222/976:1, 3-6, 8-9, ZDEU 183/977.2-10, ZFMK 22062.63), Lacerta rudis svanetica Darevsky et Eiselt, 1980 (голотип – ZISP 17875.1, паратипы – ZISP 17875.2-8, 17814.1-18, NMW 24138.1-6), Lacerta rudis chechenica Eiselt et Darevsky, 1991 (голотип – NMW 33504.1, паратипы – ZISP 17878.1-13, 17882.2-4, ZISP 18374.1-5, 18781.1-6, 19545.1- 13, ZFMK 16448.52, 29262, 38037.45, 40431-33, NMW 32619.1,2, 33504.2,4,5), Darevskia rudis mirabilis Arribas, Ilgaz, Kumlutaş, Durmuş, Avci et Üzüm, 2013 (голотип – ZDEU 145/2002.9, паратипы – ZDEU 145/2002.1-8, 10-18, личная коллекция О. Аррибаса (1-6)), Darevskia rudis bolkardaghica Arribas, Ilgaz, Kumlutaş, Durmuş, Avci et Üzüm, 2013 (голотип – ZDEU 144/2009.6, паратипы – ZDEU 144/2009.1-5, 7-8, личная коллекция О. Аррибаса (1-4)). Показано что в соответствии с МКЗН, таксон Lacerta depressa var. rudis Bedriaga, 1886 сле- дует считать не замещающим названием (nomen novum) для Podarcis depressa Camerano, 1878, а единствен- ным пригодным названием (available name). Приводится история описания форм комплекса. Уточняются локалитеты, сборщики и даты сбора типовых экземпляров.
Doronin I.V. (2023) -
Doronin I.V. & Doronina M.A. & Lotiev K.Yu. & Lukonina S.A. & Mazanaeva L.F. & Milto K.D. (2024) -
Seventy-six sequences of the cytb gene region of mitochondrial DNA (1143 bp) and 27 sequences of i7 β-fib nuclear DNA (483 bp) of Lacerta strigata from 57 localities in Abkhazia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Iran, and Russia were analyzed. A large number of new samples were included in analysis with special focus to the species’ range at the Caucasus Isthmus. An identical topology and four supported clades (lineages) resulted for both mtDNA and sequences combined with nucleDNA (Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood). Four haplogroups (clusters) have been identified in the median cytb haplotype network. The lizards of clade A (haplogroup I) are widespread throughout the species range, while lizards of clade D (haplogroup IV) show the most limited distrubytion. No genetically unique populations of L. strigata were detected in the Caucasian xerophilous refugia. Also, no genetically distinct populations of the species were recorded in the Hyrcanian climatic refugium (Southern Caspian region). An exception is the East Hyrcanian refugium, that is characterized by the most distant clade D (IV). The territory of Ciscaucasia and the Transcaucasian depression are occupied by a single clade each: A (I) and B (II), respectively. We detected several clades distributed in the four geographic areas (contact zones): in the Greater Caucasus, Alborz, Armenian Highland, and West Turkmenian Lowland. We associate the divergence of the L. strigata phylogenetic lineage with the Turkmen-Khorasan and, in particular, the Kopet Dag orogeny, as well as with the Late Miocene fluctuations in the level of the Eastern Paratethys, while the leading factor of intraspecific differentiation is the Pleistocene regressions and transgressions of the Caspian Sea. According to the current distribution pattern and species evolutionary history, L. strigata should be assigned to the Hyrcano-Caucasian zoogeographic group.
И.В. Доронинa, М.А. Доронинаa, К.Ю. Лотиевb, С.А. Луконинаd, Л.Ф. Мазанаеваe, К.Д. Мильтоa (2024) -
Проведен анализ 76 последовательностей гена cytb митохондриальной ДНК (1143 п.н.) и 27 по- следовательностей интрона 7 β-fib ядерной ДНК (483 п.н.) Lacerta strigata из 57 локалитетов в Абхазии, Азербайджане, Армении, Грузии, Иране и России. Особое внимание уделено ранее неисследованным популяциям Кавказа. Наши данные позволили дополнить представления о генетическом разнообразии вида. Реконструировано два типа дендрограмм филогенетиче- ских отношений, показавших идентичную топологию и наличие четырех поддержанных клад (линий) как для мтДНК, так и для объединенного с яДНК набора последовательностей – байе- совская и максимального правдоподобия. На медианной сети гаплотипов cytb обособляются че- тыре гаплогруппы (кластера). Наибольшее распространение в ареале вида получили представи- тели клады A (гаплогруппа I), наименьшее распространение – D (IV). Для известных на Кавказе ксерофильных рефугиумов герпетофауны уникальные с генетической точки зрения популяции L. strigata не обнаружены. Аналогичное мы видим и при сопоставлении географического распре- деления клад со схемой расположения рефугиумов южного Прикаспия (Гиркании). Исключение составляет Восточно-Гирканский рефугиум, где выявлены только представители наиболее дис- танцированной клады D (IV). Такие обширные регионы, как Предкавказье и Закавказская де- прессия, по имеющимся данным, населены представителями единственной клады каждый: A (I) и B (II), соответственно. Выявлены четыре географические области, где обитают представители нескольких клад (контактные зоны): Большой Кавказ, Эльбурс, Армянское нагорье и Западно- Туркменская низменность. Мы связываем дивергенцию филогенетической линии L. strigata с формированием в позднем миоцене Туркмено-Хорасанских гор и, в частности, Копетдага, а также колебаниями уровня Восточного Паратетиса. Одним из ведущих факторов внутривидо- вой дифференциации вида могли быть плейстоценовые регрессии и трансгрессии Каспийского бассейна. Lacerta strigata должна быть отнесена к гиркано-кавказской зоогеографической группе.
Doronin, I. & Garmasheva, N.N. (2015) -
The paper describes a first case of successful hunting of a Parasteatoda tepidariorum (C. L. Koch, 1841) spider for a juvenile individual of Pontic Lizard, Darevskia pontica (Lantz et Cyrén, 1919), recorded in the territory of Slavyansk-on-Kuban town (Krasnodar Region, Russia).
Доронин И.В., Гармашева Н.Н. (2015) -
Впервые описан случай успешной охоты паука Parasteatoda tepidariorum (C. L. Koch, 1841) на ювенильную особь понтийской ящерицы, Darevskia pontica (Lantz et Cyrén, 1919), зафиксированный на территории г. Славянск-на-Кубани (Краснодарский край, Россия).
Doronin, I.V. (2011) -
The description of a new subspecies of rock lizards Darevskia saxicola complex, inhabited the territory of Pitsunda-Myussera Reserve and in the Gagra (Republic of Abkhazia) is given. Myussera lizard, Darevskia brauneri myusserica ssp. nov., differs from other taxa of the complex by the following combination of morphological characters: (1) large or very large masseteris scute; (2) interrupted series of ciliated grains between supraciliar and supraocular scutes; (3) presence of additional scutes lying on either side of occipital and interparietal scutes or splitting of the latter; (4) net color pattern on the back (in females fuzzy); (5) dominance of gray and light gray color in the coloration of the back of females; (6) white throat and belly. In addition, these subspecies differs by some peculiarities of biology: biotopical preference to coastal pebble conglomerates and a relatively low population size. Probably, the taxon was formed during the Pleistocene. Formation of the coastal plains of Pitsunda Peninsula by alluvial and marine accumulation in the Late Neopleistocene – Holocene divided the area of Myussera lizard into the Gagra and Myussera plots. This area is situated within the Black Sea refuge of Eastern Mediterranean species of herpetofauna.
И.В. Доронин (2011) -
В статье приводится описание нового подвида скальной ящерицы комплекса Darevskia saxicola, обитающего на территории Пицундо-Мюссерского заповедника и в районе г. Гагра Республики Абхазия. Мюссерская ящерица, Darevskia brauneri myusserica ssp. nov., отличается от других таксонов комплекса следующей комбинацией морфологических признаков: (1) крупный или очень крупный центральновисочный щиток; (2) прерывистый ряд ресничных зернышек между верхнересничными и надглазничными щитками; (3) наличие дополнительных щитков, лежащих по обе стороны от затылочного и межтеменного щитков, либо дробление последнего; (4) сетчатый рисунок на спине (у самок нечеткий); (5) доминирование у самок серого и светлосерого цвета в окраске дорсальной поверхности тела; (6) белое горло и брюхо. Кроме того, новый подвид отличается некоторыми особенностями биологии: биотопической приуроченностью к прибрежным выходам конгломерата и относительно низкой численностью популяции. Предположительно, формирование таксона протекало в плейстоцене. Образование приморской равнины полуострова Пицунда за счет аллювиальной и морской аккумуляции в позднем неоплейстоцене – голоцене разделило ареал мюссерской ящерицы на гагрский и мюссерский участки. Эта территория расположена в пределах Черноморского рефугиума восточносредиземноморских видов герпетофауны.
Doronin, I.V. (2012) -
To study the habitats and potential spread of the rock lizards from the Darevskia (saxicola) complex, the Maxent 3.3.3e program was used. Our analysis has found that currently in the Ciscaucasia (on the Stavropol Upland) there are no favorable climatic conditions for habitation of D. saxicola but it can be found on the territory of North Ossetia-Alania (in the Digorskoe Gorge), there are no clear boundaries between the habitats of D. b. brauneri and D. b. darevskii. This is further evidence in favor of their conspecificity; the habitat of D. [brauneri] szczerbaki has been stable in recent decades and no significant movement of its borders has taken place, in Abkhazia there is very limited territory suitable for habitation of D. b. myusserica. Bioclimatic factors affecting the habitat of the lizards from the complex were analyzed.
Доронин И.В. (2012) -
Для изучения ареалов и потенциального распространения скальных ящериц комплекса Darevskia (saxicola) была использована программа Maxent 3.3.3e. В результате установлено, что в настоящее время в Предкавказье (на Ставропольской возвышенности) отсутствуют благоприятные климатические условия для обитания D. saxicola, но она может быть обнаружена на территории Северной Осетии-Алании (в Дигорском ущелье); нет четких границ между ареалами D. b. brauneri и D. b. darevskii, что является еще одним фактом, свидетельствующим в пользу их отнесения к одному подвиду; ареал D. [brauneri] szczerbaki на протяжении последних десятилетий был стабилен и существенных подвижек его границ не происходило; имеется крайне ограниченная территория в Абхазии, подходящая для обитания D. b. myusserica. Был проведен анализ биоклиматических факторов, влияющих на ареал ящериц комплекса.
The article is the result of the analysis of the distribution of the Darevskia praticola praticola (Eversmann, D. p. hyrcanica Tuniyev, Doronin, Kidov et Tuniyev, 2011, and D. pontica (Lantz et Cyrén, 1919) in the Caucasus. GIS-modeling was used by the program Maxent 3.3.3e. An analysis of the obtained distribution maps led to the conclusion about the location of centres (zones optimum) of distribution ranges. The zone of optimum for studied forms do not overlap each other. It can be considered as indication of the difference in the location of the centers of their formation. Data on the modern change of borders of ranges of lizard Darevskia (praticola) complex are presented.
The paper provide information on the current status of the type specimens of Darevskia (saxicola) complex as they were in December 2011. I order to stabilize nomenclature of this complex, the neotype of Lacerta saxicola Eversmann, 1834, lectotypes of Lacerta saxicola brauneri Méhely, 1909 and Lacerta saxicola lindholmi Szczerbak, 1962 are designated. History of description of these taxa is discussed.
И.В. Доронин (2012) -
В работе приводится информация о современном месте хранения типовых экземпляров ящериц комплекса Darevskia (saxicola) по состоянию на декабрь 2011 г. С целью стабилизации номенклатуры выделяются и описываются неотип Lacerta saxicola Eversmann, 1834, лектотипы Lacerta saxicola brauneri Mehely, 1909 и Lacerta saxicola lindholmi Szczerbak, 1962. Приводится история описания форм комплекса.
The greatest number of reptiles having melanism (the number of specimens and species) have been recorded in the Caucasus in populations of five Darevskia species: Darevskia alpina, D. brauneri, D. lindholmi, D. pontica and D. rudis. The occurrence of melanistic specimens in reptiles can be explained by the influence of geochemical anomalies, thermoregulatory adaptation, isolation, and occurence in the periphery of their range. Melanism of D. lindholmi appears to depend on geochemical factors. The melanistic specimens of D. rudis, D. pontica and D. brauneri were found in a city on the northeastern boundary of their range. D. alpina was recorded in the mountains on the eastern periphery of the range.
Doronin, I.V. (2013) -
Доронин, И.В. (2013) -
New records of Darevskia alpina from the vicinities of Zemo Bachiani Village in South Ossetia are presented and discussed: D. brauneri from the place of the confluence of the Luhunistskale River into the Rion River in Georgia and vicinities of Ertso Lake in South Ossetia, D. pontica from the vicinities of Slavyansk-na-Kubani, Timashevsk, Novotitarovskaya Village, Poltavskaya Village and Burakovsky Village in Krasnodar Region, D. portschinskii nigrita from the vicinities of Kizilkilisa Village in Georgia, D. praticola from the vicinities of Tskhinval, Acrisheu Village, Malaya Gufta Village, Hetagurova Village and the southern slope of the Zonkar Ridge in South Ossetia. Information on an attempt to introduce D. pontica into the territory of Rostov-on-Don is provided.
И.В. Доронин (2013) -
Приводятся и обсуждаются новые находки Darevskia alpina из окрестностей с. Земо Бачиани Южной Осетии, D. brauneri из района впадения р. Лухунисцкале в р. Рион Грузии и окрестностей оз. Эрцо Южной Осетии, D. pontica из окрестностей г. Славянск-на-Кубани, г. Тимашевск, ст-цы Новотитаровская, ст-цы Полтавская и хут. Бураковский Краснодарского края, D. portschinskii nigrita из окрестностей c. Кизилкилиса Грузии, D. praticola из окрестностей г. Цхинвал, с. Ацрисхеу, с. Малая Гуфта, с. Хетагурова и южного склона Зонкарского хребта Южной Осетии. Приводятся данные о попытке интродукции D. pontica на территорию г. Ростов-на-Дону.
Доронин И.В. (2013) -
Doronin, I.V. (2014) -
The paper provides information on the current status of the type specimens of Darevskia (caucasica) complex as they were in August 2014. In order to stabilize nomenclature of this complex, the lectotype of Lacerta saxicola daghestanica Darevsky, 1967 is designated. The description of external morphology of paralektotype of a L. s. daghestanica, lektotype and paralektotype of Lacerta caucasica Méhely, 1909 is given. History of description of these taxa is discussed.
И.В. Доронин (2014) -
В работе приводится информация о современном месте хранения типовых экземпляров ящериц комплекса Darevskia (caucasica) по состоянию на август 2014 г. Для стабилизации номенклатуры выделяется лектотип Lacerta saxicola daghestanica Darevsky, 1967. Дается описание внешней морфологии паралектотипа L. s. daghestanica, лектотипа и паралектотипа Lacerta caucasica Mehely, 1909. Приводится история описания форм комплекса.
Doronin, I.V. (2015) -
1. Sexual dimorphism and geographical variability in signs of external morphology are revealed in the species of the studied complexes of rock lizards. The most important for their diagnosis are the features of folidosis of the head. Interspecific and intraspecific differences in morphometric features, color and pattern of the body were detected. 2. In the phylogenetic analysis, the Darevskia (caucasica) samples were divided into the group of the northern slope of the Central Caucasus (D. caucasica), the East Caucasus (D. daghestanica), the Western Caucasus (D. alpina), the northern slope of the Central and Western Caucasus (D. alpina ). Reliable identification and significant genetic differences of D. caucasica and D. daghestanica samples favor their attribution to different species. Within D. alpina two groups with high genetic differences (distances) were identified. Inside Darevskia (saxicola) two lines are described, one of which is connected with the Crimea and the Western Caucasus (D. lindholmi-D. Brauneri), and the second - with the North and West Caucasus (D. saxicola-D. Szczerbaki). 3. As a result of the nomenclatural revision, the lectotype Lacerta praticola pontica, L. saxicola brauneri, L. saxicola daghestanica, L. saxicola lindholmi, and the neotype L. saxicola; Specific locations, years and authors of the description of a number of taxa have been refined. 4. It has been established that the studied supernumerary complexes include the following valid taxa: Darevskia (praticola) - D. pontica pontica, D. pontica hungarica, D. praticola praticola, D. praticola hyrcanica, D. praticola loriensis; Darevskia (caucasica) - D. alpina, D. caucasica caucasica, D. caucasica vedenica, D. daghestanica; Darevskia (saxicola) - D. brauneri brauneri, D. brauneri myusserica, D. saxicola, D. szczerbaki, D. lindholmi. Lacerta saxicola darevskii is regarded as a minor synonym for Lacerta saxicola brauneri. 5. For the first time accurate inventories of findings (1,443 locations) and GIS maps of species arealways were compiled, reliably characterizing the features of their distribution; The structure of areals, the current trends of their changes and the factors influencing the distribution of rock lizards are revealed. It is recommended to carry out conservation measures of international and national level in order to preserve the populations of D. alpina, D. brauneri myusserica and D. szczerbaki, especially in typical territories. 6. The first and only reliable paleontological find of Darevskia sp. - Darevskia sf. brauneri from the Pleistocene site, the caves of Mezmaiskaya. A hypothesis is proposed for the formation of species of complexes, according to which the isolation of their common ancestor from a hypothetical form it is logical to associate with the Miocene and Pliocene boundaries, or with the Cimmerian century of the Pliocene, 153 and the radiation of modern species - with the Akchagylian age, corresponding to the Piacenza and Gelazian tiers. The parallel formation of several Darevskia (praticola) and Darevskia (caucasica) lines around the Greater Caucasus is assumed in the early Pliocene. At the end of the Pontian age, the primary area of the ancestor of the modern forms of Darevskia (saxicola) and the subsequent formation in the Mediterranean landscapes of the Black Sea coast, along the surviving cliff, D. szczerbaki, and the cuestas of the North Caucasus - D. saxicola, could have occurred at the periphery of the Caucasian peninsula.
Доронин И.В. (2015) -
1. У видов изученных комплексов скальных ящериц выявлены половой диморфизм и географическая изменчивость в признаках внешней морфологии. Наиболее важными для их диагностики являются особенности фолидоза головы. Обнаружены меж- и внутривидовые различия по морфометрическим признакам, окраске и рисунку тела. 2. При филогенетическом анализе исследуемые образцы Darevskia (caucasica) распределились на группу северного склона Центрального Кавказа (D. caucasica), Восточного Кавказа (D. daghestanica), Западного Кавказа (D. alpina), северного склона Центрального и Западного Кавказа (D. alpina). Надежная идентификация и значимые генетические различия образцов D. caucasica и D. daghestanica говорят в пользу их отнесения к разным видам. Внутри D. alpina выявлены две группы с высокими генетическими различиями (дистанциями). Внутри Darevskia (saxicola) описаны две линии, одна из которых связана с Крымом и Западным Кавказом (D. lindholmi–D. brauneri), а вторая – с Северным и Западным Кавказом (D. saxicola–D. szczerbaki). 3. В результате проведения номенклатурной ревизии выделены лектотипы Lacerta praticola pontica, L. saxicola brauneri, L. saxicola daghestanica, L. saxicola lindholmi и неотип L. saxicola; уточнены типовые местонахождения, годы и авторы описания ряда таксонов. 4. Установлено, что изученные надвидовые комплексы включают следующие валидные таксоны: Darevskia (praticola) – D. pontica pontica, D. pontica hungarica, D. praticola praticola, D. praticola hyrcanica, D. praticola loriensis; Darevskia (caucasica) – D. alpina, D. caucasica caucasica, D. caucasica vedenica, D. daghestanica; Darevskia (saxicola) – D. brauneri brauneri, D. brauneri myusserica, D. saxicola, D. szczerbaki, D. lindholmi. Lacerta saxicola darevskii рассматривается как младший синоним Lacerta saxicola brauneri. 5. Впервые составлены точные кадастры находок (1443 локалитетов) и ГИС-карты ареалов видов, надежно характеризующие особенности их распространения; выявлена структура ареалов, современные тенденции их изменения и факторы, влияющие на распространение скальных ящериц. Рекомендовано проводить охранные мероприятия международного и национального уровня с целью сохранения популяций D. alpina, D. brauneri myusserica и D. szczerbaki, в особенности на типовых территориях. 6. Обнаружена первая и единственная на сегодняшний день достоверная палеонтологическая находка Darevskia sp. – Darevskia sf. brauneri из плейстоценового местонахождения, пещеры Мезмайской. Предложена гипотеза формирования видов комплексов, согласно которой обособление их общего предка от гипотетической формы логично связывать с рубежом миоцена и плиоцена, либо с киммерийским веком плиоцена, 153 а радиацию современных видов – с акчагыльским веком, соответствующим пьяченцскому и гелазскому ярусам. Предполагается параллельное становление в раннем плиоцене нескольких линий Darevskia (praticola) и Darevskia (caucasica) вокруг Большого Кавказа. В конце понтического века мог произойти разрыв первичного ареала по периферии Кавказского полуострова предка современных форм Darevskia (saxicola) и последующее становление в средиземноморских ландшафтах Черноморского побережья, вдоль сохранившегося клифа, D. szczerbaki, а по куэстам Северного Кавказа – D. saxicola.
The essay reviews the significance of the scientific activities of the eminent herpetologist and specialist in lizards, Georgy Feodorvich Sukhov (1899–1943) whose life and scientific work have been undiscovered until now. It appraises his scientifc discoveries from a contemporary point of view.
Кратко описано значение научной деятельности крупного герпетолога, специалиста по ящери- цам Георгия Фёдоровича Сухова (1899–1943), чей жизненный путь и научная карьера оставались до настоящего времени неизвестными. Дается современная оценка его научных открытий.
The paper presents analysis of the distribution of Darevskia praticola praticola, D. praticola loriensis, D. p. hyrcanica, and D. pontica in the Caucasus. GIS modeling (Maxent 3.3.3k) was used. Analysis of the obtained GIS maps of distribution has allowed us to locate territories with maximum occurrence probabilities of these taxa. Analysis of the bioclimatic factors that affect the lizard habitats from the complex and their zoogeographical position is given; data on the modern changes in the boundaries of the taxa from the Darevskia (praticola) complex are presented.
В статье приводятся результаты анализа распространения Darevskia praticola praticola, D. praticola loriensis, D. p. hyrcanica и D. pontica на Кавказе. Была использована ГИС-программа Maxent 3.3.3k. Анализ полученных ГИС-карт распространения позволил определить расположение территорий с максимальной вероятностью нахождения таксонов. Дается анализ биоклиматических факторов, влияющих на ареалы ящериц комплекса, и их зоогеографичеcкого положения; приводятся данные о современном изменении границ распространения представителей комплекса Darevskia (praticola).
Doronin, I.V. (2016) -
The paper provides data on the current location of the type specimens of Darevskia (praticola) complex as of March 2016: Lacerta praticola Eversmann, 1834 (storage holotype place (on monotype) is unknown), Lacerta vivipara stenolepis Nikolsky, 1911 (holotype for monotypes – ZISP 7203, location unknown), Lacerta praticola pontica Lantz et Cyrén, 1918 (lectotype – ZISP 22853, paralectotypes – ZISP 5279, 5280, 22847, 22852.1-2, 22854), Lacerta praticola hungarica Sobolewsky, 1930 (location lectotype and paralectotypes ZISP 9814 unknown, paralectotypes – ZMMU R 2538), Lacerta plicata Bartenef et Reznikova, 1931 (holotype (on monotypes) – ZISP 15204), Darevskia praticola hyrcanica Tuniyev, Doronin, Kidov et Tuniyev, 2011 (holotype – SNP 1473.5, paratypes – SNP 1473.0-19, ZISP 12301, 12630, 12632-12635), Darevskia praticola loriensis Tuniyev, Doronin, Tuniyev, Aghasyan, Kidov et Aghasyan, 2013 (holotype – SNP 1568.9, paratypes – SNP 1569.1-19, ZISP 17075). The history of description of all known forms of the complex is given. L. praticola pontica has been described in 1918, not in 1919.
Доронин, И.В. (2016) -
В работе приводится информация о современном месте хранения типовых экземпляров ящериц комплекса Darevskia (praticola) по состоянию на март 2016 г.: Lacerta praticola Eversmann, 1834 (место хранения голотипа (по монотипии) неизвестно), Lacerta vivipara stenolepis Nikolsky, 1911 (голотип по монотипии – ZISP 7203, место нахождения неизвестно), Lacerta praticola pontica Lantz et Cyrén, 1918 (лектотип – ZISP 22853, паралектотипы – ZISP 5279, 5280, 22847, 22852.1-2, 22854), Lacerta praticola hungarica Sobolewsky, 1930 (место нахождения лектотипа и паралектотипов ZISP 9814 неизвестно, паралектотип – ZMMU R 2538), Lacerta plicata Bartenef et Reznikova, 1931 (голотипа (по монотипии) – ZISP 15204), Darevskia pra- ticola hyrcanica Tuniyev, Doronin, Kidov et Tuniyev, 2011 (голотип – SNP 1473.5, паратипы – SNP 1473.0-19, ZISP 12301, 12630, 12632-12635), Darevskia praticola loriensis Tuniyev, Doronin, Tuniyev, Aghasyan, Kidov et Aghasyan, 2013 (голотип – SNP 1568.9, паратипы – SNP 1569.1-19, ZISP 17075). Приводится история описания форм комплекса. Показано, что L. praticola pontica описана не в 1919 г., а в 1918 г.
We describe a case of temporary transfer of a striated lizard, Lacerta strigata Eichwald, 1831 to eating winged individuals of the cornfield ant, Lasius alienus (Foerster, 1850) registered in the territory of the Staropavlovskaya village, Stavropol region.
Описывается случай временного перехода на питание крылатыми особями садового бледноногого муравья, La- sius alienus (Foerster, 1850) полосатой ящерицы, Lacerta strigata Eichwald, 1831, зарегистрированный на терри- тории станицы Старопавловская Ставропольского края.
Doronin, I.V. (2018) -
The purpose of this work, under Articles 23.9.1.2, 23.9.2, and 24.2 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, is to conserve the priority of the specific name Lacerta mixta Méhely, 1909. This name is threatened by the never-used-as-valid name Lacerta composita Méhely, 1909. It is proposed that Lacerta mixta, Méhely, 1909 is given precedence as a nomen protectum over Lacerta composita Méhely, 1909, which will be considered as a nomen oblitum.
Doronin, I.V. (2024) -
Доронин, И.В. (2024) -
Doronin, I.V. & Doronin, M.A. & Milto, K.D. (2018) -
И.В. Доронин, М.А. Доронина, К.Д. Мильто (2018) -
Doronin, I.V. & Doronina, M.A. (2019) -
The paper provides data on the current location of the type specimens of Lacerta viridis media Lantz et Cyrén, 1920 as on December 1, 2018. In the collections of ZISP, NHM and NMG 17 syntypes were identified during our study, ten of which appeared to be lost. According to catalogue records, other type specimens of this taxon likely were also stored in NMG, but this cannot be established for sure due to the loss of part of the collection. It is possible that part of the type specimens is stored in the Göteborgs Naturhistoriska Museum, as the majority of the Cyrén’s collections is kept there. The herpetological collection of NM KhNU has two specimens of L. media, coming from the collection of the Caucasian Museum. Most probably these lizards were received from Tiflis for study by A.M. Nikolsky, who lived and worked in Kharkov from 1903 to 1942. However, these specimens cannot be attributed to the type series of this species as their localities data are absent from the list of Lantz and Cyrén. The designation of the lectotype by Šmíd et al. (2014) is considered invalid, as it does not correspond to ICZN rules. To ensure the stability of the nomenclature we designate herein the specimen ZISP 12387 as the lectotype of L. viridis media. The history of the taxon description is given. It is demonstrated that O. Cyrén (1933) was first who upgraded the status of this taxon to a species level, using a binomen.
И.В. Доронин и М.А. Доронина (2019) -
В работе приводится информация о современном месте хранения типовых экземпляров Lacerta viridis media Lantz et Cyrén, 1920 по состоянию на 1 декабря 2018 г. В коллекциях ZISP, NHM и NMG выявлены 17 синтипов, из которых 10 в настоящее время утрачены. Судя по записям в каталоге, вероятнее всего в NMG хранились и другие типовые экземпляры этого таксона, но из-за утраты части коллекции точно установить это не представляется сейчас возможным. Вероятно, что часть типовой серии хранится в Гетеборгском музее естественной истории, так как большинство сборов Сирена в настоящее время находится в этом учреждении. В герпетологической коллекции NM KhNU имеются 2 экз. L. media, про- исходящие из коллекции Кавказского музея; вероятнее всего, эти ящерицы были получены из Тифлиса для изучения А.М. Никольским, который жил и работал в Харькове с 1903 по 1942 гг. Однако они не могут быть отнесены к типовой серии, так как указанные локалитеты отсутствуют в перечне Ланца и Сирена. Публикацию Шмида с соавторами (Šmíd et al. 2014) нельзя считать валидным обозначением лектоти- па, так как оно не соответствует ICZN. Для обеспечения стабильности номенклатуры мы обозначаем экземпляр ZISP 12387 в качестве лектотипа L. viridis media. Приводится история описания таксона. Показано, что О. Сирен (1933) впервые повысил его статус до видового, использовав биноминальное название.
Doronin, I.V. & Ananjeva, N.B. & Barabanov, A.V. & Milto, K.D. & Khairutdinov, I.Z. (2017) -
Доронин И.В., Ананьева Н.Б., Барабанов А.В., Мильто К.Д., Хайрутдинов И.З. (2017) -
Doronin, I.V. & Doronina, M.A. (2022) -
The paper provides data on the location of the type specimens of Lacerta agilis var. orientalis Kessler, 1878: 7 syntypes were identified in the collection of the Laboratory of Herpetology of the Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ZISP). The belonging to the type series is clearly indicated by the dates of their collection, localities and collectors. It is shown that according to the “International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature” (4th edition) this published valid name should be considered for L. a. brevicaudata Peters, 1958 and L. a. grusinica Peters, 1960 as the senior subjective synonym, and for L. a. exigua Eichwald, 1831 as the junior subjective synonym. To preserve the stability of the nomenclature, we designate specimen ZISP No. 22902 from Pyatigorsk as the lectotype of Lacerta agilis var. orientalis. From this point on, this trinomen should be regarded as a junior subjective synonym for L. a. exigua, which complies with recommendation ICZN Art. 74A “Agreement with previous restriction. In designating a lectotype, in order to preserve stability of nomenclature an author should act consistently with, and in any event should give great weight to, previously accepted taxonomic restrictions of the application of the name”. A description of the external morphology of the lectotype and its photograph are given.
И.В. Доронин и М.А. Доронина (2022) -
В работе приводится информация о месте хранения типовых экземпляров Lacerta agilis var. orientalis Kessler, 1878: 7 синтипов выявлены в коллекции лаборатории герпетологии Зоологического института РАН (ZISP). На принадлежность к типовой серии с определенностью указывают даты их сбора, локалитеты и коллекторы. Показано, что в соответствии с «Международным кодексом зоологической номенклатуры» (4-е издание ICZN) это опубликованное пригодное валидное название выступает для L. a. brevicaudata Peters, 1958 (Terra typica – Армения, Лорийская область, г. Степанаван, по месту сбора голотипа) и L. a. grusinica Peters, 1960 (Terra typica – Абхазия, г. Сухум (= Сухуми, Сухум-Кале), по ме- сту сбора лектотипа) старшим субъективным синонимом, а для L. a. exigua Eichwald, 1831 (Terra typica – Уральские горы; вероятно, в первоначальной публикации речь идет о голотипе по монотипии) – младшим субъективным синонимом. Для сохранения стабильности номенклатуры мы обозначаем экземпляр ZISP No 22902 из Пятигорска в качестве лектотипа Lacerta agilis var. orientalis. С этого момента этот триномен должен рассматриваться как младший субъективный синоним L. a. exigua, что соответствует рекомендации ICZN Art. 74А действовать в соответствии с принятыми ранее таксономическими ограничениями в применении названия. Дано описание внешней морфологии лектотипа и его фотография.
Doronin, I.V. & Doronina, M.A. & Bekoshvili, D. (2019) -
New data on the distribution of four species of lizards (Darevskia brauneri, D. daghestanica, Lacerta agilis ioriensis, L. strigata) in the Caucasus are presented.
Doronin, I.V. & Doronina, M.A. & Tsuryumova, Y.I. (2025) -
Limb abnormalities are one of the most common deformities of vertebrates. They can be caused by both external and internal reasons. Limb abnormalities of amniotes are a fairly rare phenomenon, and mass limb abnormalities have not been found in amniote populations. Isolated cases of skeletal abnormalities are described mainly externally, without detailing the structure of the skeleton. This article presents descriptions of three abnormal specimens of hybrids of subspecies of Lacerta agilis (L. a. boemica L. a. exigua). Two of them have oligodactyly of the right fore-limb. The third specimen demonstrates a unique combination of oligodactyly of the right and polydactyly of the left forelimbs.
Doronin, I.V. & Doroninа, M.A. (2019) -
The distribution of Eremias arguta in the North Caucasus within Kabardino-Balkaria is discussed. A new find of the species from Geduko in the Baksansky district is presented.
И.В. Доронин & М.А. Доронина (2019) -
Обсуждается распространение разноцветной ящурки (Eremias arguta) на Северном Кавказе в пределах Кабар- дино-Балкарии. Приводится новая находка вида из урочища Гедуко в Баксанском районе.
Doronin, I.V. & Doroninа, M.A. (2020) -
The finding of a melanist meadow lizard (Darevskia praticola praticola) in the Stavropol Territory is discussed. Information on the clutch and offspring obtained from the female of this aberration is given.
Доронин, И.В. & Доронина, М.А. (2020) -
Обсуждается находка меланиста луговой ящерицы (Darevskia praticola praticola) на территории Ставропольского края. Приводятся сведения о полученных от самки этой аберрации кладке и потомстве.
The paper provides data on the current location of the type specimens of lacertid lizard’s taxa described by herpe- tologist Georgy F. Sukhov (1899–1942), as at July 1, 2020: Lacerta agilis tauridica Suchow, 1927 (lectotype [here designated] – ZISP No 12620, paralectotypes – ZISP No 3226, 3235, 3238, 3856, 10366в, 12230, 12231, 12520, 12619, 14110, NMNH No 2152 (14599–14600), 2163 (14621–14622), 2172 (14705–14712), 2184 (14772–14773), 2184 (14774–14777), 2188 (14872–14893), 2279 (15983–16037), 2279 (16038–16074), 2518 (16621)), Lacerta boemica Suchow, 1929 (lectotype [here designated] – ZISP No 30363, paralectotypes – ZISP No 16210, 30358- 30362, 30364-30398.1, NHM No 1960.1.4.26–30, 1965.337–342, NMNO no No), Apathya cappadocica urmiana Lantz et Suchow, 1934 (holotype – ZISP No 12657b, paratypes – ZISP No 11444, 12657a, c, 12658), Lacerta princeps kurdistanica Suchow, 1936 (holotype – ZISP No 11441.1, paratypes – ZISP No 11440, 11441.2–4, 11442, 11443). According to the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (4th edition), the name Lacerta agilis caucasica Suchow, 1927 should be considered as a junior primary homonym of Lacerta caucasica Méhely, 1909, and the designation of the neotype of L. a. tauridica by Kalyabina-Hauf et al. must be rejected. The history of de- scription of taxa as well as a list of Sukhov’s publications (12 articles published in 1927–1948) are given. Localities, collector’s names and dates of capture of the type specimens are clarified. Anderson and Šmíd et al. indicated that Eiselt restricted the type locality of L. princeps kurdistanica; this is not true.
В работе приводится информация о современных местах хранения типовых экземпляров таксонов ящериц, описанных герпетологом Георгием Федоровичем Суховым (1899–1942), по состоянию на 1 июля 2020 г.: Lacerta agilis tauridica Suchow, 1927 (лектотип [обозначается здесь] – ZISP No 12620, па- ралектотипы – ZISP No 3226, 3235, 3238, 3856, 10366в, 12230, 12231, 12520, 12619, 14110, NMNH No 2152 (14599–14600), 2163 (14621–14622), 2172 (14705–14712), 2184 (14772–14773), 2184 (14774–14777), 2188 (14872–14893), 2279 (15983–16037), 2279 (16038–16074), 2518 (16621)), Lacerta boemica Suchow, 1929 (лек- тотип [обозначается здесь] – ZISP No 30363, паралектотипы – ZISP No 16210, 30358-30362, 30364-30398.1, NHM No 1960.1.4.26–30, 1965.337–342, NMNO без No), Apathya cappadocica urmiana Lantz et Suchow, 1934 (голотип – ZISP No 12657b, паратипы – ZISP No 11444, 12657а, с, 12658), Lacerta princeps kurdistanica Suchow, 1936 (голотип – ZISP No 11441.1, паратипы – ZISP No 11440, 11441.2–4, 11442, 11443). Показано, что в соответствии с «Международным кодексом зоологической номенклатуры» (4-е издание) назва- ние Lacerta agilis caucasica следует считать младшим первичным омонимом Lacerta caucasica Méhely, 1909, а обозначение Калябиной-Хауф с соавторами неотипа L. a. tauridica должно быть отвергнуто. Приводится история описания таксонов и список публикаций ученого (12 статей, изданных в 1927– 1948 гг.). Уточнены локалитеты, коллекторы и даты сбора типовых экземпляров. Андерсон и Шмид с соавторами указали, что Айзельт ограничил типовое местонахождение L. princeps kurdistanica, что не соответствует действительности.
Doronin, I.V. & Dzhelali, P.A. & Lotiev, K.Yu. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Mustafaeva, G.A. & Bunyatova S.N. (2021) -
The range of superspecific complex of rock lizards Darevskia (caucasica) (D. alpina, D. c. caucasica, D. c. vedeni- ca, D. daghestanica) includes the Main Caucasian ridge and its spurs on the southern and northern macroslopes within heights from 500 m to 3200 m above sea level. A fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (1096 bp) was analyzed in 48 specimens of these lizards. Specimens were collected in 23 localities. We have found 39 unique haplotypes. The minimum genetic diversity was found in D. c. vedenica, maximum in D. c. caucasica. All taxa of the complex, except for D. c. vedenica, demonstrate genetic heterogeneity. Four clades can be distinguished on the dendrogram of phylogenetic relationships. They correspond to D. alpina, D. c. caucasica, D. c. vedenica, D. dagh- estanica. D. c. caucasica forms two distinct haplogroups. On the phylogenetic tree, the sample of D. c. vedenica formed an independent clade close to D. c. caucasica. The Darevskia (caucasica) complex is polyphyletic accord- ing to the analysis of the mitochondrial marker. Nucleotide sequences of D. alpina formed a single clade with Darevskia (saxicola) complex representatives and combined with the sequences of D. brauneri into subclade. On the example of the population of D. daghestanica, found in a forest biotope without rocky outcrops and genetically not differing from individuals from the adjacent territory, the ability of rocky lizards to master biotopes unusual for them in a short period of time was demonstrated. This example demonstrates the ability of rock lizards to adapt to unusual biotopes in a short period of time. Genetic distance between D. c. vedenica and D. c. caucasica is com- parable to the distance between D. c. caucasica and D. daghestanica. We assume the existence of an independent form of D. caucasica ssp. inhabiting South Ossetia and adjacent territories.
И.В. Доронин, П.А. Джелали, К.Ю. Лотиев, Л.Ф. Мазанаева, Г.А. Мустафаева5 и С.Н. Буньятова (2021) -
Ареал представителей комплекса Darevskia (caucasica) (D. alpina, D. с. caucasica, D. c. vedenica, D. daghes- tanica) охватывает Главный Кавказский хребет и его отроги на южном и северном макросклонах в пре- делах высот от 500 м до 3200 м над уровнем моря. В работе проанализирован участок митохондриаль- ного гена цитохрома b (1096 п.н.) от 48 особей этих ящериц, собранных в 23 локалитетах. Обнаружены 39 уникальных гаплотипов. Минимальные значения показателей генетического разнообразия выяв- лены у D. c. vedenica, максимальные – у D. c. caucasica. Все таксоны комплекса, за исключением ве- денской ящерицы, демонстрируют генетическую гетерогенность. На дендрограмме филогенетических отношений можно выделить четыре клады, соответствующие D. alpina, D. с. caucasica, D. c. vedenica, D. daghestanica. D. с. caucasica формирует две обособленные гаплогруппы. Выборка веденской ящерицы сформировала самостоятельную кладу на дереве, близкую по положению к номинативному подвиду кавказской ящерицы. По митохондриальному маркеру комплекс Darevskia (caucasica) полифилетичен: нуклеотидные последовательности D. alpina сформировали единую кладу с Darevskia (saxicola), обра- зовав субкладу с последовательностями D. brauneri. Пример популяции D. daghestanica, обнаруженной в лесном биотопе без скальных выходов и генетически не отличающейся от особей с сопредельной тер- ритории, свидетельствует о способности скальных ящериц осваивать не свойственные им биотопы за короткий период времени. Генетическая дистанция между D. c. vedenica и D. с. caucasica сопоставима с таковой для пары D. с. caucasica и D. daghestanica. Мы предполагаем наличие самостоятельной формы D. caucasica ssp., обитающей в Южной Осетии и на сопредельных территориях.
Doronin, I.V. & Ermolina, L.P. (2012) -
A reptile catalogue of the Zoological Museum, Stavropol State University, is presented. 1,019 specimens of 88 species collected within the territories of Russian Federation, Ukraine, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and some other areas are listed. The history of the Museum and the formation of its collection are given.
Доронин И.В., Ермолина Л.П. (2012) -
Представлен каталог рептилий Зоологического музея Ставропольского государственного университета, в котором дается информация о 1019 экз. 88 видов, собранных на территориях России, Украины, Грузии, Казахстана, Узбекистана, Туркмении. Рассмотрена история создания музея и формирования коллекции.
Doronin, I.V. & Isakov, D.S. (2023) -
Doronin, I.V. & Ljubisavljevic, K. (2014) -
И.В. Доронин, К. Любисавлиевич (2014) -
Doronin, I.V. & Lotiev, K.J. (2013) -
Doronin, I.V. & Lotiev, K.Yu. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Milto, K.D. & Khlyustikova, D.I. (2022) -
Five new regional records of the rock lizards in Caucasus are described. The distribution of Darevskia alpina (Darevsky, 1967) on the northern slope of Mount Elbrus has been detailed: the species was found in the Emmanuel glade and in the gorge of the Kyzylkol River. The easternmost record of D. alpina is located in the upper stream of the Cherek Bezengi River in Kabardino-Balkaria. Darevskia caucasica vedenica (Darevsky et Roitberg, 1999) was first found on the territory of Dagestan in the area of the lake Kezenoyam and on the watershed of the Okholitlau and Khulhulau rivers. The existence of an isolated population of D. daghestanica (Darevsky, 1967) in the gorge of the Bolshaya Liakhvi River was confirmed, which is located in South Ossetia, on the southwestern border of the species range. When studying the collections of the Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, three specimens of D. dahli (Darevsky, 1957) were found from the village Alapars of the Kotayk region of Armenia collected in 1880. This locality is the southernmost and, moreover, the only record of the species in the Armenian volcanic highlands.
И.В. Доронин, К.Ю. Лотиев, Л.Ф. Мазанаева, К.Д. Мильто и Д.И. Хлюстикова (2022) -
Приводятся и обсуждаются новые находки скальных ящериц на Кавказе. Уточнено распространение Darevskia alpina (Darevsky, 1967) на северном склоне горы Эльбрус: вид найден на поляне Эммануэля и в ущелье р. Кызылкол. Самая восточная точка обнаружения D. alpina расположена в верховьях р. Черек Безенгийский в Кабардино-Балкарии. Darevskia caucasica vedenica (Darevsky et Roitberg, 1999) впервые найдена на территории Дагестана в районе оз. Кезенойам и на водоразделе рек Охолитлау и Хулхулау. Подтверждено современное существование изолированной популяции D. daghestanica (Darevsky, 1967) в ущелье р. Большая Лиахви в Южной Осетии на юго-западной границе ареала вида. При изучении коллекций Зоологического института РАН обнаружены три экземпляра D. dahli (Darevsky, 1957) из с. Алапарс Котайкской области Армении, собранные в 1880 г. Данный локалитет – наиболее южная и притом единственная находка вида на Армянском вулканическом нагорье.
Doronin, I.V. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Doronina, M.A. (2018) -
The publication presents the results of GIS modelling using the MaxEnt 3.3.3k program for the distribution of the Lacerta media Lantz et Cyrén, 1920 in the past, present time and future. During the analysis, the geographical co- ordinates of 26 places of finds of the species in the territory of Dagestan were used. The obtained models of past dis- tribution (the Last Glacial Maximum and Middle Holocene) in the northeastern part of the Caucasus demonstrate a stable location of a potentially suitable territory within the boundaries of the known modern range. It was shown no noticeable changes in the range of the species with potential climate warming in the future (2050 and 2070). We can conclude that there are no threats to the species from global warming, in addition, the anthropogenic impact on Dagestan populations is minimal. The most promising areas were identified for the search for new populations: upstream and downstream the Samur, Kurakh, Andy-Koysu and Avar Koysu rivers. In addition, they include the gorges in the middle reaches of the Gamriozen, Halagork, Uluchay and Chiragchay rivers. This territory is poorly studied by herpetologists.
И.В. Доронин, Л.Ф. Мазанаева & М.А. Доронина (2018) -
публикации приводятся результаты ГИС-моделирования с помощью программы MaxEnt 3.3.3k области распространения средней ящерицы, Lacerta media Lantz et Cyrén, 1920, в прошлом, настоящем и будущем. При анализе были использованы географические координаты 26 мест находок вида на территории Дагестана. Полученные модели прошлого распространения (последний ледниковый максимум и средний голоцен) в северо-восточной части Кавказа демонстрируют стабильное расположение потенциально пригодной терри- тории в границах известного современного ареала. Показано отсутствие заметных изменений границ ареала вида при потенциальном потеплении климата в будущем (2050 и 2070 гг.). Мы можем сделать вывод об отсутствии угроз для средней ящерицы со стороны глобального потепления, кроме того, антропогенное воз- действие на дагестанские популяции минимально. Были выявлены наиболее перспективные территории для поиска новых популяций: выше и ниже по течению рек Самур, Курах, Андийское Койсу и Аварское Койсу. Кроме того, к ним можно отнести ущелья в среднем течении рек Гамриозень, Халагорк, Уллучай и Чирагчай. Отметим, что эта территория слабо изучена герпетологами.
Doronin, I.V. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Gichikhanova, U.A. (2020) -
Doronin, I.V. & Melnikov, D.A. & Melnikova, E.N. (2016) -
e results of molecular genetic analysis of phylogenetic relationships in Darevskia (caucasica) on the basis of COI sequences variability is presented. Two main lineages are detected: the Central and Eastern Caucasian (clades A–B — D. caucasica-D. daghestanica), and Central and Western Caucasian (clades C–D — D. alpina). A DNA-barcoding tool can be successfully used for species identi cation of D. alpina, D. caucasica and D. daghestanica.
Доронин, И.В. Мельников Д.А., Мельникова Е.Н. (2016) -
Приведены результаты молекулярно-генетического анализа филогенетических взаимо- отношений скальных ящериц Darevskia (caucasica) на основе изменчивости фрагмента пер- вой субъединицы цитохром оксидазы (COI). На полученных деревьях четко выделяются две линии, одна из которых связана с Центральным и Восточным Кавказом (группы A–B — D. caucasica-D. daghestanica), а вторая — с Центральным и Западным Кавказом (группы С–D — D.alpina). Делается вывод об эффективности ДНК-штрихкодирования для дифференциации D. alpine, D. caucasica и D. daghestanica. Библиогр. 19 назв. Ил. 2. Табл. 2.
Doronin, I.V. & Smirnova N.G. (2022) -
New findings of Darevskia pontica at the northern border of its habitat, in the Kuban-Azov lowland within the administrative boundaries of the Krasnodar and Rostov regions, are presented and discussed. The species was found in the Rostov region for the first time. It is proposed to include D. pontica into the regional Red Data Book of the Rostov region.
И. В. Доронин & Н. Г. Смирнова (2022) -
Приводятся и обсуждаются новые находки понтийской ящерицы (Darevskia pontica) на северной границе ареала в Кубано-Приазовской низменности в администра- тивных границах Краснодарского края и Ростовской области. Для последнего региона вид указан нами впервые. Предложено включить D. pontica в региональную Красную книгу Ростовской области.
Doronin, I.V. & Tuniyev, B.S. (2015) -
Доронин И.В., Туниев Б.С. (2015) -
Doronin, I.V. & Tuniyev, B.S. (2018) -
The article describes the history of the study and data on the biology of the Szczerbak‘s Lizard, Darevskia szczerbaki - the endemic of Russia. The species is listed in the Red Data Book of Krasnodar Krai and is recommended for inclusion in the Red Data Book of Russian Federation. The main reason for this lizard extinction is the construction of coastal cliffs in the Krasnodar krai. Particular concern is caused by the state of its populations in a type locality — the town of Anapa. To protect a rock lizard, the following steps are necessary: optimization of the territory of the Utrish State Natural Reserve, establishing of new protected areas in Anapa, on the coastline between Gelendzhik and Tuapse, and prohibition of catching of lizards.
Доронин И.В. & Туниев Б.С. (2018) -
статье изложена история изучения ящерицы Щербака (Darevskia szczerbaki) и сведения о биологии этого узкоареального эндемика России. Вид занесен в Красную книгу Краснодарского края и рекомендован для включе
Doronin, I.V. & Tuniyev, B.S. & Kukushkin, O.V. (2013) -
The results of statistical analysis of morphological characters and the study of the cytochrome b gene variability (mtDNA) of rock lizards of the Darevskia (saxicola) complex distributed in the Caucasus and the Crimea, have shown significant differentiation within this complex, assuming specific independence of D. szczerbaki (Lukina, 1963) and subspecific status of recently described D. brauneri myusserica Doronin, 2011. According to our data, within D. brauneri (Méhely, 1909) only two forms of subspecific status can be distinguished, namely D. b. brauneri and D. b. myusserica. In our opinion, Lacerta saxicola darevskii Szczerbak, 1962 (= D. brauneri darevskii) should be considered to be a junior synonym of D. b. brauneri. The possible scenarios of range formation in the Darevskia (saxicola) complex are discussed.
И.В. Доронин, Б.С. Туниев и О.В. Кукушкин (2013) -
Результаты статистического анализа морфологических признаков шести распространенных на Кавказе и в Крыму форм скальных ящериц комплекса Darevskia (saxicola), наряду с данными исследования изменчивости фрагмента гена цитохром b митохондриальной ДНК, указывают на глубокую дифференциацию внутри этого комплекса, говорят в пользу видовой самостоятельности D. szczerbaki (Lukina, 1963) и обособленности недавно описанного таксона D. brauneri myusserica Doronin, 2011. Вместе с тем внутривидовая изменчивость D. brauneri (Mehely, 1909) позволяет выделить только две валидные формы подвидового статуса: D. b. brauneri и D. b. myusserica. По нашему мнению, Lacerta saxicola darevskii Szczerbak, 1962 (= D. brauneri darevskii) должна рассматриваться как младший синоним D. b. brauneri. Обсуждаются возможные сценарии происхождения форм комплекса.
Doronina, M.A. & Doronin, I.V. (2019) -
Доронина М.А., Доронин И.В. (2019) -
Doronina, M.A. & Doronin, I.V. & Lukonina, S.A. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Lotiev, K.Yu. & Ananjeva, N.B. (2023) -
DNA barcoding remains a recognized and widely used method for taxon identification in biodiversity inventory and monitoring. In this publication, we present information about the results of using this method in the study of green lizards of the genus Lacerta. A total of 67 sequences of the COI gene fragment of three species (L. agilis, L. media, L. strigata) were analyzed. For the first time, all subspecies of L. agilis known in the Caucasus were studied using DNA barcoding, and a phylogeographic hypothesis for L. strigata in the Caucasian part of the range was proposed. Genetic identification has been successful at the species level. In the composition of L. agilis within the Caucasus, we can diagnose only the subspecies L. a. boemica and L. a. exigua, while L. a. brevicaudata, L. a. grusinica and L. a. mzymtensis are identical from L. a. exigua, while L. a. ioriensis from L. a. boemica.
М. А. Доронина, И. В. Доронин, С. А. Луконина, Л. Ф. Мазанаева, К. Ю. Лотиев, Н. Б. Ананьева (2023) -
штрихкодирование остается признанным и широко используемым методом идентификации таксонов при инвентаризации и мониторинге биоразнообразия. В публикации мы приводим сведе- ния о результатах использования этого метода при изучении зеленых ящериц рода Lacerta. Всего было проанализировано 67 последовательностей фрагмента гена COI трех видов (L. agilis, L. media, L. strigata). Впервые c помощью ДНК-штрихкодирования изучены все известные на Кавказе подви- ды L. agilis, предложена филогеографическая гипотеза для L. strigata в кавказской части ареала. Ге- нетическая идентификация была успешной на видовом уровне. В составе L. agilis в пределах Кавка- за мы можем диагностировать только подвиды L. a. boemica и L. a. exigua, тогда как L. a. brevicaudata, L. a. grusinica и L. a. mzymtensis по выбранному маркеру неотличимы от L. a. exigua, а L. a. ioriensis от L. a. boemica.
Doronina, M.A. & Doronin, I.V. & Lukonina, S.A. & Lotiev, K.Y. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Milto, K.D. & Barabanov, A.V. (2021) -
Doronina, M.A. & Doronin, I.V. & Lukonina, S.A. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Barabanov, A.V. (2022) -
The mitochondrial DNA cytb sequences (1143 bp) were examined in the representatives of Lacerta media. A total of 34 lizards from 19 localities were analyzed. Special attention was paid to previously unex- plored populations on the northern border of the range within the North Caucasus and Western Transcauca- sia. Two types of dendrograms of phylogenetic relationships, Bayesian (BA) and maximum likelihood (ML), were reconstructed, showing identical topology. Phylogenetic reconstruction identifies four supported clades. Similarly, on the median-joining haplotype network, four haplogroups are distinguished. At earlier stages of the phylogeny of L. m. media, the populations of the eastern part of the Armenian Highlands and the Northern Zagros are isolated. Next, the populations of the central part of the Armenian Highlands and the Greater Caucasus become isolated. At the final stage, these are the populations of the Central Zagros and the eastern part of the Asia Minor Highlands. The data obtained do not support a scenario on the nominative sub- species dispersal from the west to the east and northeast, suggested previously by F. Ahmadzadeh et al. [4]. Instead, we consider the opposite direction, i.e., from the east to the north, south, and west. Two geograph- ical regions, the Armenian Highlands and the Zagros Mountains, inhabited by the representatives of several clades/haplogroups are identified.
The analysis of cytb of mitochondrial DNA (1143 bp) in Lacerta media was carried out using 34 individuals from 19 localities. Special attention was paid to previously unexplored populations on the northern border of the range within the North Caucasus and Western Transcaucasia. Two types of dendrograms of phylogenetic relations (Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood) were reconstructed, showing identical topology. Phylogenetic reconstruction identifies four supported clades. Similarly, four haplogroups are distinguished on the median network of haplotypes. The populations of the eastern part of the Armenian Highlands and the Northern Za- gros are distinguished at earlier stages of the process of phylogeny L. m. media. Subsequently, the populations of the central part of the Armenian Highlands, the Greater Caucasus, and, at the final stage, the Central Za- gros and the eastern part of the Asia Minor Highlands become isolated. The data obtained do not confirm the scenario of dispersal of the nominative subspecies from west to east and northeast, proposed by Ahmadza- deh et al. Instead, we consider the opposite direction – from east to north, south, and west. Two geographical regions were identified where representatives of several clades/haplogroups live, is the Armenian Highlands and the Zagros Mountains.
Доронина М.А., Доронин И.В., Луконина С.А., Мазанаева Л.Ф., Барабанов А.В. (2022) -
Проведен анализ cytb митохондриальной ДНК (1143 пн) у представителей Lacerta media. Проанализиро- ваны 34 образца из 19 локалитетов. Особое внимание уделено ранее неисследованным популяциям на северной границе ареала в пределах Северного Кавказа и Западного Закавказья. Реконструировано два типа дендрограмм филогенетических отношений, показавших идентичную топологию – байесовская (BA) и максимального правдоподобия (ML). Филогенетическая реконструкция выделяет четыре поддержанные клады. Аналогично на медианной сети гаплотипов обособляются четыре гаплогруп- пы. На более ранних этапах процесса филогенеза L. m. media выделяются популяции восточной ча- сти Армянского нагорья и Северного Загроса. В дальнейшем происходит обособление популяций центральной части Армянского нагорья, Большого Кавказа, а на завершающем этапе – Централь- ного Загроса и восточной части Малоазиатского нагорья. Полученные данные не поддерживают ра- нее предложенный Ф. Ахмадзаде с соавт. сценарий расселения номинативного подвида с запада на восток и северо-восток. Взамен его мы рассматриваем противоположное направление – с востока на север, юг и запад. Выявлено две географические области, где обитают представители нескольких клад/гаплогрупп.
Doronina, M.A. & Doronin, I.V. & Lukonina, S.A. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Lotiev, K.Yu. & Ananjeva N.B. (2023) -
DNA barcoding remains a recognized and widely used method for taxon identification in biodi- versity inventory and monitoring. In this publication, we present information about the results of using this method in the study of green lizards of the genus Lacerta. A total of 67 sequences of the COI gene fragment of three species (L. agilis, L. media, and L. strigata) were analyzed. For the first time, all subspecies of L. agilis known in the Caucasus were studied using DNA barcoding, and a phylogeographic hypothesis for L. strigata in the Caucasian part of the range was proposed. Genetic identification has been successful at the species level. In the composition of L. agilis within the Caucasus, we can diagnose only the subspecies L. a. boemica and L. a. exigua, while L. a. brevicaudata, L. a. grusinica, and L. a. mzymtensis do not differ in this marker from L. a. exigua and L. a. ioriensis from L. a. boemica.
Doronina, M.A. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Doronin, I.V. (2022) -
An analysis of the spatial distribution of green lizards of the genus Lacerta in Dagestan is given. The distribution ranges of L. agilis, L. media, and L. strigata are specified and detailed. A set of vector (points of records) and raster synthetic maps is created, reflecting the spatial distribution of species. Bioclimatic mod- eling of habitat suitability is carried out. The minimum overlap of ecological (eco-climatic) niches is noted for L. media with all the species studied, and the maximum overlap is observed in L. agilis and L. strigata.
An analysis of the spatial distribution of green lizards of the genus Lacerta in Dagestan is given. The distribu- tion ranges of L. agilis, L. media, and L. strigata are specified and detailed. A set of vector (points of records) and raster synthetic maps are created, reflecting the spatial distribution of species. Bioclimatic modeling of habitat suitability is carried out. The minimum overlap of ecological (eco-climatic) niches is noted for L. me- dia with all species studied, the maximum in L. agilis and L. strigata.
Доронина М.А., Мазанаева Л.Ф., Доронин И.В. (2022) -
Приведен анализ пространственного распространения зеленых ящериц рода Lacerta в пределах Да- гестана. Уточнены и детализированы ареалы L. agilis, L. media и L. strigata. Создан набор векторных (точек находок) и растровых синтетических карт, отражающих пространственное распределение видов. Проведено биоклиматическое моделирование пригодности местообитаний. Минимальное перекрывание экологических (эколого-климатических) ниш отмечено для L. media со всеми изу- ченными видами, максимально у L. agilis и L. strigata.
Dotsenko, I.B. (2007) -
The information is given on finding of males, having characters similar with Darevskia mixta (settled in 1968) and with D. armeniaca in the structure of the mixed experimental population of rocky lizards D. armeniaca and D.dahli. Data about distribution of the above mentioned species in the territory populated by them, characters of external morphology and others are cited. The possible reasons of not planned occurrence `D.dahli` in the population of D. armeniacа, including by hybridization are considered.
Dotsenko, I.B. & Darevsky, I.S. (2005) -
Specimens of Dahl’s rocky lizard Darevskia dahli (Darevsky, 1957) was found among the introduced on the territory of Ukraine D. armeniaca (Mehely, 1909). The 11 specimens of Dahl’s rocky lizard was compared D. armeniaca from the same location by 16 external features and with 15 specimens of D. dahli from Georgia by 2 features. The results were commented.
Dotsenko, I.B. & Melnichenko, R.K. & Demidova, M.I. (2016) -
Data on biology of the partenogenetic rock lizards of Darevskia which are artificially acclimatized in Ukraine are provided. Biotopes and station of the mixed population of introduced species of D. armeniaca and D. dahli near the Denishi village in the Zhytomyr region are described. Expansion of an area of these species on inflows of the river Teteriv is noted. The new location of rocky lizards on the Bobrovka River near the Buki village is described. The seasonal and daily activity of lizards and density of their settlement in this region are investigated. The review of publications about population of introduced species of rocky lizards is provided. The factors limiting resettlement of parthenogenetic rocky lizards and promoting it are analyzed.
Доценко, И. Б. & Мельниченко, Р.К. & Демидова, М.И. (2016) -
Приводятся данные об особенностях биологии пapтeнoгeнeтических cкальных ящеpиц poда Darevskia, искусственнo aкклимaтизoвaнных в Укpaине. Описаны биотопы и стации смешанной популяции D. armeniaca и D. dahli в окрестностях c. Дeниши в Житoмиpской обл. Отмечается расширение ареала этих видов по притокам р. Тетерев. Детально описана новая локация скальных ящериц на р. Бобровка близ с. Буки. Изучены сезонная и суточная aктивноcть ящеpиц и плотноcть их в исследованном регионе. Приво- дится обзор публикаций о популяции интродуцентов. Анализируются факторы, лимитиру- ющие расселение партеногенетических скальных ящериц и способствующие ему.
Dotsenko, I.B. & Peskov, V.N. & Miropolskaya, M.V. (2008) -
Douglass, G.N. (1891) -
Doumergue, F. (1901) -
Dowideit, D. (2005) -
Dowideit, D. (2006) -
Downes, S. & Bauwens, D. (2002) -
Podarcis sicula of Italian origin has expanded its range along the Adriatic coast of Croatia, apparently replacing the autochthonous species P. melisellensis by competitive exclusion. We used an experimental approach on newborn lizards to test the hypothesis that direct behavioural interference occurs between P. sicula and P. melisellensis, whereby the former obtains an advantage over the latter. Brief encounters betweenP. sicula and P. melisellensis were more aggressive and more likely to result in clear dominant–subordinate relationships than were brief encounters between pairs of conspecific P. melisellensis. When they cohabited for 3 weeks, individuals in heterospecific pairs were less likely to occupy a thermal microhabitat simultaneously than individuals from homospecific pairs. Contrasts of individuals in heterospecific pairs showed that behavioural interference was asymmetric in favour of P. sicula. During brief encounters P. sicula were more aggressive and dominant than P. melisellensis opponents. When the two species cohabited for longer periodsP. sicula used better, and P. melisellensis poorer, thermal microhabitats than when reared in isolation. In addition, P. sicula grew faster, and P. melisellensis slower, than in isolation. These within-species shifts in microhabitat use and growth were not evident for homospecific pairs living together. Thus, our observations indicate that asymmetric aggressive interactions between hatchlings of our study species reduce an important fitness component (i.e. growth rate) of P. melisellensis. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that direct behavioural interference by P. sicula is the mechanistic basis of the competitive exclusion ofP. melisellensis .
Downes, S. & Bauwens, D. (2004) -
Researchers often presume that dominant individuals, during an initial series of social interactions, ultimately gain possession of the territory, but detailed studies of the process of social relation establishment in animals are rare. We used an experimental approach on pairs of conspecific newborns of two lizard species (Podarcis sicula and P. melisellensis) to examine whether the outcomes of first encounters are consistent with the formation of social relations during the ensuing three weeks. A major objective was to determine whether social relations expressed during prolonged cohabitation induced divergence of individual growth rates within a dyad. Moreover, we explored to what extent individual differences in growth rate and behavior during social cohabitation paralleled differences expressed when the animals were housed in isolation. Differential expression of behavior within dyads was examined by calculating the difference between values for the two individual lizards. During brief first encounters, access to a localized basking site was determined by agonistic interactions between lizards. Cohabitation of two lizards during prolonged encounters resulted in differences in their thermal microhabitat usage, which in turn induced divergence of their growth rates. The direction and magnitude of the differences in thermal microhabitat use and the divergence in growth rates during prolonged encounters mirrored differences in the interactions exhibited during the first encounter. Moreover, differences between two lizards in initial social interactions, and in thermal microhabitat use and growth rate during prolonged encounters, paralleled differences in thermal microhabitat use exhibited when lizards were housed alone. Thus, it may be possible to predict the outcome of social interactions within dyads based on the differential expression of traits between two lizards housed in isolation.
Downes, S.J. & Bauwens, D. (2002) -
We examined how reproductive state affectedshifts in behavior of adult female Podarcis siculatowardchemical cues from a natural snake predator (Coronellaaustriaca). The oviparous P. siculalizards do not experi-ence a major physical burden during reproduction, butgravid females substantially increase duration of bask-ing. Therefore, gravid lizards are likely to experience agreater risk of mortality because they are exposed to pre-dators for longer periods. Both gravid and non-gravid fe-males shifted patterns of locomotion when confrontedwith snake chemical cues, but the change was notablylarger when females were non-gravid. When non-gravid,lizards responded to predator scent by increasing thenumber of stand-ups and starts, while such a responsewas not observed when females were gravid. By con-trast, gravid lizards clearly reduced the time spent bask-ing in the presence of predator scent, whereas no changein basking behavior was observed when females werenon-gravid. Thus, females exhibit differential behavioralresponses to predator scents that is dependent on repro-ductive state.
Draud, M. & Ferner, J. (1994) -
Drechsler, R.M. & Monrós, J.S. (2019) -
We calculated growth rate for the spiny-footed lizard (Acanthodactylus erythrurus) inhabiting coastal eastern Spain from long-term mark-recapture data. Growth curves differ between sexes, with males growing faster than females and achieving larger size maximums. In this population each sex reaches maturity at about 300 days of age, approximately 34% faster than males, and 28% faster than females studied in a population further south and west in Iberia. Our logarithmic growth model has an accuracy of 96.8% and high statistical significance (r = 0.96 for males and r = 0.97 for females). Although both the exponential curve of “best fit” for growth estimated for males (r = 0.81), and the linear curve of “best fit” estimated for females (r = 0.77) in a population from Cádiz (Busack and Jaksic, 1982) are also significant. The overlap between growth curves and the general data cloud of the population showed that at the end of the year the proportion of individuals younger than one year was 80% and the proportion of individuals older than one year was 20%. Our data, in agreement with calculated maximum life spans for males (1.9 years) and females (2.1 years) in Cádiz, suggest a life span of approximately two years for both sexes. Females seem to reproduce only in a unique season in their lives, at this locality, as in Cádiz (Busack and Klosterman, 1987) they likely lay only one clutch, whereas females in Morocco (Bons, 1962) may produce two.
There are many factors affecting population dynamics, both abiotic and biotic. One of the most important biotic factors affecting different ecological aspects of a species is competition. But there is relatively little research focussing on the effect of competition on population dynamics. Thus, we studied population dynamics of three insectivorous lizard species (Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Psammodromus algirus and Psammodromus edwardsianus) which cohabit in our study area. We carried out periodic censuses and samplings during 2015 and 2017. Our results seem to confirm that a high level of competition can alter some aspects of population dynamics. Also body size seems to play a role, as most adjustments we detected were related to small size classes and the most affected species was P. edwardsianus. Some possible responses to competition we detected were an advance of the reproduction period, increased growth rates and biasing the sex ratio notably towards males (as higher testosterone levels lead to more aggression and this improves success rates in interspecific encounters). However, our study area is highly anthropized and further research is needed to discern if these adjustments are really exclusively related to competition or if human disturbance also plays a role.
We calculated growth rate for the spiny-footed lizard (Acanthodactylus erythrurus) inhabiting coastal eastern Spain from long-term mark-recapture data. Growth curves differ between sexes, with males growing faster than females and achieving larger size maximums. In this population each sex reaches maturity at about 300 days of age, approximately 34% faster than males, and 28% faster than females studied in a population further south and west in Iberia. Our logarithmic growth model has an accuracy of 96.8% and high statistical significance ( r = 0.96 for males and r = 0.97 for females). Although both the exponential curve of “best fit” for growth estimated for males (r = 0.81), and the linear curve of “best fit” estimated for females ( r = 0.77) in a population from Cadiz (Busack & Jaksic, 1982) are also significant. The overlap between growth curves and the general data cloud of the population showed that at the end of the year the proportion of individuals younger than one year was 80% and the proportion of individuals older than one year was 20%. Our data, in agreement with calculated maximum life spans for males (1.9 years) and females (2.1 years) in Cadiz, suggest a life span of approximately two years for both sexes. Females seem to reproduce only in a unique season in their lives, at this locality, as in Cadiz (Busack & Klosterman, 1987) they likely lay only one clutch, whereas females in Morocco (Bons, 1962) may produce two.
Trophic ecology is one of the most important aspects of a species’ ecology and it is crucial when trying to assess how different species interact in an ecosystem. Showing how the diet intraspecifically changes in different body sizes, sexes or habitats and how trophic resources are shared interspecifically allows to understand how the ecosystem functions. With this objective, we studied the diet and trophic ecology of Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Psammodromus algirus and Psammodromus edwardsianus, which are in syntropy in the Albufera de Valencia Natural Park. We collected a total of 485 faecal samples and could identify 18 different prey groups. The main prey groups in A. erythrurus were Hymenoptera, Coleoptera and Hemiptera; in P. algirus, Lepidoptera, Arachnida, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera and Orthoptera; and in P. edwardsianus, Coleoptera, Hemiptera and Arachnida. Our results show that A. erythrurus seems to be the most specialized species, having the lowest values of trophic niche amplitude and the lowest intraspecific diet variation. Although this species is known to feed mainly on ants, our results indicate that mirmecophagy seems to be especially important in juveniles. Indeed we observed in all three species a niche separation between small and big individuals, indicating that diet changes with age. We could also evidence a resource partitioning between A. erythrurus and P. algirus, presenting a niche overlap of only 51.6%. In conclusion, there are various factors playing together shaping the diet of a species in a certain environment: behavioural, ecological, environmental and physiological factors.
Dreismann, G. (1978) -
Drengubiak, P. (2013) -
The aim of the study was to map the distribution of common lizard in diverse structure of microhabitats of the model area and based on knowledge of the species distribution, to suggest appropriate management measures for individual microhabitats. During the research period since May to September of 2011 and 2012, aggregated and random distribution of viviparous lizard individuals in the model area was determined. Considering that distribution, baseline and alternative management models of non-forest vegetation areas were designed.
Drescher, R. (1997) -
Drinda, S. (1981) -
Drobny, M. (2002) -
Drobny, M. (2011) -
Drobny, M. (2015) -
Die Übersicht der bayerischen Vorkommen der Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) beschreibt das seit 1928 einzige bekannte autochthone Vorkommen in Oberaudorf im oberbayerischen Inntal. Es gehört der Subspezies „maculiventris“ an. Die Populationsgröße wird auf 400 bis 1000 Tiere geschätzt, die als relativ stabil angesehen wird. Naturschutzfachlich bedeutsam ist das Vorkommen, da es zentral an einem Primärhabitat (südexponierte Felswand) liegt. Das Habitat wird beschrieben. Untersuchungen fanden ein zweites bayerisches Vorkommen in etwa 4,4 Kilomater Entfernung. Dieses liegt in der Mitte zu dem Vorkommen in Kufstein und dem österreichischen Inntal.
Drohvalenko, M. & Mykhailenko, A. & Rekrotchuk, M. & Shpak, L. & Shuba, V. & Trokhymchuk, R. & Utevsky, S. & Zinenko, O. (2019) -
A part of the COI mitochondrial barcoding gene was sequenced from seven species of diff erent taxonomical groups: Ambystoma mexicanum (Amphibia, Ambystomatidae), Darevskia lindholmi, Lacerta agilis exigua (Reptilia, Lacertidae), Erinaceus roumanicus (Mammalia, Erinaceidae), Macrobiotus sp. 1 and 2 (Eutardigrada, Macrobiotidae) and Cameraria ohridella (Insecta, Gracillariidae). Th e sequences were compared with available sequences from databases and positioned on phylogenetic trees when the taxa had not yet been sequenced. Th e presence of Mexican axolotls in herpetoculture in Ukraine was confi rmed. Th e partial COI genes of the Crimean rock lizard and an eastern sub-species of the sand lizard were sequenced. We demonstrated the presence of two tardigrade mitochondrial lineages of the Macrobiotus hufelandi group in the same sample from the Zeya Natural Reserve in the Far East: one was nearly identical to the Italian M. macrocalix, and the other one is similar to M. persimilis and M. vladimiri. We also confi rmed the presence of the invasive haplotype “A” of the horse chestnut leaf miner in Ukraine, in line with the hypothesized route of invasion from Central Europe.
Drosdov, N.N. (1964) -
Drouet, A. (1861) -
Drouet, F. (1861) -
Drubbel, J. (2010) -
Druelle, F. & Goyens, J. & Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Aerts, P. (2018) -
Substrate variations are likely to constrain animal performance in natural environments, as running over complex terrains challenges the dynamic stability of the body differently in each step. Yet, being able to negotiate complex terrains at top speed is a strong advantage for animals that have to deal with predators and evasive prey. Little is known on how animals negotiate such terrain variability at high speed. We investigated this in fast-running Acanthodactylus boskianus lizards, by measuring their 3D kinematics using four synchronised high-speed video cameras (325 Hz) on an adaptable racetrack. This racetrack was covered with four different substrates, representing increasing levels of terrain complexity. We found that the lizards deal with this complexity gradient by gradually adopting more erect parasagittal leg postures. Legs in a more-erect position are more compliant and are therefore highly adjustable on complex terrains. Additionally, the lizards stabilise their head, which facilitates vestibular and visual perception. Together, compliant legs and head stabilisation enable the lizards to minimise movements of the body centre of mass, even when running on highly irregular terrains. This suggests that the head and the centre of mass are the priority targets for running on uneven terrains. As a result, running performance (mean forward speed) decreases only slightly, and only on the most challenging substrate under investigation.
Druelle, F. & Goyens, J. & Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Aerts, P. (2019) -
While running, small animals frequently encounter large terrain variations relative to their body size, therefore, terrain variations impose important functional demands on small animals. Nonetheless, we have previously observed in lizards that running specialists can maintain a surprisingly good running performance on very uneven terrains. The relatively large terrain variations are offset by their capacity for leg adjustability that ensures a ‘smooth ride’ of the centre of mass (CoM). The question as to how the effect of an uneven terrain on running performance and locomotor costs differs between species exhibiting diverse body build and locomotor specializations remains. We hypothesise that specialized runners with long hind limbs can cross uneven terrain more efficiently than specialized climbers with a dorso-ventrally flattened body and equally short fore and hind limbs. This study reports 3D kinematics using high-speed videos (325 Hz) to investigate leg adjustability and CoM movements in two lacertid lizards (Acanthodactylus boskianus, running specialist; Podarcis muralis, climbing specialist). We investigated these parameters while the animals were running on a level surface and over a custom-made uneven terrain. We analysed the CoM dynamics, we evaluated the fluctuations of the positive and negative mechanical energy, and we estimated the overall cost of transport. Firstly, the results reveal that the climbers ran at lower speeds on flat level terrain but had the same cost of transport as the runners. Secondly, contrary to the running specialists, the speed was lower and the energy expenditure higher in the climbing specialists while running on uneven terrain. While leg movements adjust to the substrates’ variations and enhance the stability of the CoM in the running specialist, this is not the case in the climbing specialist. Although their legs are kept more extended, the amplitude of movement does not change, resulting in an increase of the movement of the CoM and a decrease in locomotor efficiency. These results are discussed in light of the respective (micro-)habitat of these species and suggest that energy economy can also be an important factor for small vertebrates.
Drzewicki, S. (1926) -
Drzewicki, S. (1929) -
Dsouli, N. & Younsi-Kabachii, H. & Postic, D. & Nouira, S. & Gern, L. & Bouattour, A. (2006) -
To investigate the reservoir role of the lizard Psammodromus algirus for the Lyme disease spirochete, 199 lizards were trapped from April to October 2003 in El Jouza, northwestern Tunisia. In this site, the infection rate of free-living Ixodes ricinus (L.) by Borrelia was evaluated by immunofluorescence as 34.6% for adult ticks and 12.5% for nymphs. Eighty percent of P. algirus (117/146) captured during this study were infested by I. ricinus, the predominant tick species collected from lizards. The intensity of tick infestation of this host by larvae and nymphs ranged from 0.14 to 7.07 and from 1.5 to 6.58, respectively. These immature stages of I. ricinus were found on lizards in spring and the beginning of summer, with a peak of intensity during June (10.16 immature ticks by lizard). Tissue cultures from lizards and xenodiagnosis with larval I. ricinus were used to assess the infection and the ability, respectively, of infected lizards to transmit Borrelia to naive ticks. Seventeen percent of xenodiagnostic ticks (40/229) acquired B. lusitaniae while feeding on P. algirus. Therefore, we demonstrated the ability of the lizards to sustain Borrelia infection and to infect attached ticks, and we proved that P. algirus is a reservoir host competent to transmit B. lusitaniae.
Du, Q. & Ma, T. & Zhao, W. & Liu, P. (2012) -
In order to analysis and compare the effect of pregnancy and amputation of tail on temperature choice in the female ofTakydromus amurensis , the study was conducted in June and August of 2012. Two populations of Takydromus amurensis respectively from Shangzhi (Heilongjiang Province) and Kuandian (Liaoning Province) were studied by the method of field capturing and laboratory feeding. Our results showed that the Heilongjiang population ofT. amurensis could make their own body temperature increase through the heat source thermostat, when the temperature of the external environment was low (20℃ ). The mean temperature of the females were (32.49±0.705)℃ in the non-gestation period. However, in the pregnancy period, the mean temperature of the females were (33.90±0.674)℃, they were significantly higher after the pregnancy (F 1,61=65.600,P <0.001). No matter the pregnancy period or the non-gestation period, the mean temperature of the femalesT. amurensis from Shangzhi (33.39±0.909)℃ were significantly higher than the females from Kuandian (32.91±1.021)℃. It showed that the ability of thermoregulatory was stronger in the area of higher latitude. The mean temperature of the females from Kuandian were(31.94±0.590)℃, and that from Shangzhi were (31.60 ± 1.268)℃ after amputation of tail. The difference was not obvious between the two populations (F 1,18=0.591,P> 0.05), but the mean temperature was obviously lower than the individual which has the complete tail (F 1,18=9.854,P <0.05). The results showed that tail has influence on the thermoregulatory.
杜青霖, 马 涛, 赵文阁, 刘 鹏 (2012) -
摘 要:为了分析和比较怀孕和断尾对雌性黑龙江草蜥(Takydromusamurensis)体温选择的影响,于2012 年 6 月和 8 月,通过野外捕捉和实验室饲养的方法,对黑龙江省尚志市和辽宁省宽甸县的 2 个黑龙江草 蜥种群进行体温调节实验。结果表明:在外界环境温度较低的情况下(20°C),黑龙江草蜥可以自行通过 热源来进行体温调节;非妊娠期,雌性黑龙江草蜥的平均体温为(32.49±0.705)°C,妊娠期时,雌性黑龙江 草蜥的平均体温为(33.90±0.674)°C,即怀孕后雌性黑龙江草蜥的体温明显升高(F1,61=65.600,P<0.001)。 不论在妊娠期还是在非妊娠期,黑龙江草蜥尚志种群雌性的平均体温(33.39±0.909)°C明显高于宽甸种 群雌性的平均体温(32.91±1.021)°C,这说明纬度较高地区的种群,体温调节的能力较强。断尾后,宽甸 种群雌性的平均体温为(31.94±0.590)°C,尚志种群雌性的平均体温为(31.60±1.268)°C,两个种群的平均 体温差异不显著(F1,18=0.591,P>0.05),但显著低于完整尾个体的平均体温(F1,18=9.854,,P<0.05),表明尾 部对体温调节具有一定作用。
Du, W.-G. (2006) -
Understanding the proximate determinants of phenotypic variations in life-history traits can provide powerful insights into a species’ life-history strategies. I experimentally manipulated availability of food (high vs low) to examine plasticity in the reproductive traits of northern grass lizards, Takydromus septentrionalis (Lacertidae), from eastern China. Food availability significantly affected reproductive frequency and thereby seasonal reproductive output, but had little effect on reproductive output per clutch. Low-food females postponed reproduction and produced less clutches in the reproductive season than did high-food females. After producing their second clutches, low-food females were in lower body condition than the high-food counterparts. By the end of the experiment, however, all females exhibited similar body condition. Clutch size and clutch mass differed between the first and second clutches but not between the treatments. Egg size and phenotypic traits of hatchlings (body size, morphology and locomotor performance) in T. septentrionalis did not vary significantly from first to second clutches nor between the two treatments. These results support optimal egg size (offspring) theory. Female T. septentrionalis “decide” whether or not to reproduce largely based on current energy intake; lowered feeding rates thus delay oviposition and reduce reproductive frequency. In contrast, clutch size, egg size and relative clutch mass remain unchanged.
Du, W.-G. & Feng, J.-H. (2008) -
How fluctuating temperatures influence reptilian embryos and hatchlings has attracted increasing scientific attention, but is poorly known. We conducted an incubation experiment with a factorial design of two mean temperatures (24 vs. 28°C) and three diel thermal fluctuations (0, ±3, ±6°C) to determine the effects of diel thermal fluctuations and mean temperature on incubation duration and hatchling phenotypes. Both diel thermal fluctuations and mean temperature significantly affected incubation duration, but not hatching success. Incubation duration increased with increasing temperature fluctuations at a mean temperature of 24°C, but not at a mean temperature of 28°C. The significant interaction between diel thermal fluctuations and mean temperature on hatchling morphology indicated that the effect of thermal fluctuations depended on the mean temperature. Hatchling mass differed significantly between 24±6 and 28±6°C, but not between the two constant temperatures or the temperatures with ±3°C fluctuations. At a mean temperature of 24°C, the effect of thermal fluctuations on hatchling size was marginally significant, with relatively large hatchlings at the constant temperature; at a mean temperature of 28°C, thermal fluctuations had no impact on hatchling size. The locomotor performances were significantly affected by mean temperature rather than diel thermal fluctuations. Therefore, diel thermal fluctuations around a given mean temperature do not affect hatchling phenotypes in a relatively large magnitude, but the influence of diel thermal fluctuations may differ with changing mean temperatures.
Du, W.-G. & Ji, X. (2006) -
To understand how nest temperatures influence phenotypic traits of reptilian hatchlings, the effects of fluctuating temperature on hatchling traits must be known. Most investigations, however, have only considered the effects of constant temperatures. We incubated eggs of Takydromus septentrionalis (Lacertidae) at constant (24°C, 27°C, 30°C and 33°C) and fluctuating temperatures to determine the effects of these thermal regimes on incubation duration, hatching success and hatchling traits (morphology and locomotor performance). Hatching success at 24°C and 27°C was higher, and hatchlings derived from these two temperatures were larger and performed better than their counterparts from 30°C and 33°C. Eggs incubated at fluctuating temperatures exhibited surprisingly high hatching success and also produced large and well-performed hatchlings in spite of the extremely wide range of temperatures (11.6–36.2°C) they experienced. This means that exposure of eggs to adversely low or high temperatures for short periods does not increase embryonic mortality. The variance of fluctuating temperatures affected hatchling morphology and locomotor performance more evidently than did the mean of the temperatures in this case. The head size and sprint speed of the hatchlings increased with increasing variances of fluctuating temperatures. These results suggest that thermal variances significantly affect embryonic development and phenotypic traits of hatchling reptiles and are therefore ecologically meaningful.
Du, W.-G. & Ji, X. & Zhang, Y.-P. & Lin, Z.-H. & Xu, X.-F. (2010) -
Geographic variation in offspring size is widespread, but the proximate causes of this variation have not yet been explicitly determined. We compared egg size and egg contents among five populations of a lizard (Takydromus septentrionalis, Günther, 1864) along a latitudinal gradient, and incubated eggs at two temperatures to determine the influence of maternal investment and incubation temperature on offspring size. The mean values for female size and egg size were both greater in the two northern populations (Chuzhou and Anji) than in the three southern populations (Lishui, Dongtou, and Ningde). The larger eggs were entirely attributable to the body size of females in the Anji population, but their increased size also stemmed from further enlargement of egg size relative to female body size in Chuzhou, the northernmost population sampled in this study. Eggs of the Chuzhou population contained more yolk and less water than those of southern populations. Despite the lower lipid content in the yolk, eggs from the Chuzhou population had higher energy contents than those from the two southern populations, owing to the larger egg size and increased volume of yolk. Hatchling size was not affected by incubation temperature, but differed significantly among populations, with hatchlings being larger in the Chuzhou population than in the other populations. Our data provide an inference that oviparous reptiles from cold climates may produce larger offspring, not only by increasing egg size but also by investing more energy into their eggs.
Du, W.-G. & Ji, X. & Zhang, Y.-P. & Xu, X.-F. & Shine, R. (2005) -
Research on life-history traits of squamate reptiles has focused on North American species, while Asian taxa have been virtually ignored. In order to understand general patterns in reptile life histories, we need a broader data base. Our study on the slender-bodied lacertid lizard Takydromus septentrionalis provides the first detailed information on factors responsible for intraspecific variation in reproductive output and life history in a Chinese reptile. Clutches of recently collected lizards from five widely separated localities in China revealed major divergences in female body size at maturation, mean adult female body size, body condition after oviposition, size-adjusted fecundity, relative clutch mass, and mass and shape of eggs. Most of these geographical differences persisted when the same groups of females were maintained in identical conditions in captivity. Additionally, reproductive frequency during mainte- nance under laboratory conditions differed according to the animals’ place of origin. Thus, the extensive geographical variation in reproductive and life-history traits that occurs within T. septentrionalis is exhibited even in long-term captives, suggesting that proximate factors that vary among localities (local conditions of weather and food supply) are less important determinants of life-history variation than are intrinsic (presumably genetic) influences. The maternal abdominal volume available to hold the clutch may be one such factor, based on low levels of variation in Relative Clutch Mass among populations, and geographical variation in the position of trade-off lines linking off- spring size to fecundity.
Du, W.-G. & Lin, C.-X. & Shou, L. & Ji, X. (2005) -
We used four species of lizards (Eumeces chinensis,Takydromus septentrionalis,Eremias brenchleyi and Calotes versicolor) that use different habitats as the experimental models to study variation in locomotor performance resulting from inter-specific differences in morphological traits.The sequence of body size measuring by snout-vent length (SVL) was E.chinensis (a ground-dwelling lizard)>C.versicolor (an arboreal lizard)>T.septentrionalis (a grass-dwelling lizard)>E.brenchleyi (a saxicolous lizard). Head size,limb length and tail length relative to SVL were the greatest in C.versicolor,intermediate in E.brenchleyi and T.septentrionalis,and the smallest in E.chinensis.Body height relative to SVL was the greatest in T.septentrionalis,intermediate in E.chinensis and C.versicolor,and the smallest in E.brenchleyi.On a horizontal racetrack,E.brenchleyi and T.septentrionalis run faster than did E.chinensis and C.versicolor.On an oblique racetrack,E.brenchleyi and C.versicolor run faster than did E.chinensis.The cling ability was the greatest in C.versicolor but the lowest in E.chinensis.Our data provide a support for the previous predictions that locomotion of animals has clear morphological determinants and that morphological variation may have fitness consequences through affecting locomotor performance.
杜卫国,林炽贤,寿 鹿,计 翔 (2005) -
动物体态特征 、功能表现和生境利用之间是否存在相关性是当前生态形态学领域的一个研究焦点。 在实验室条件下测定分别利用开阔地面、草丛、岩石、树丛生境的4种蜥蜴 (中国石龙子、北草蜥、山地麻蜥 和变色树蜥 )的形态特征 和运动能力 ,着重探讨蜥蜴运 动能力 与形 态特征 之间 的相关 性 。4种蜥蜴 的头 体长 大 小依次为 :中国石龙子 >变色树蜥 >北草蜥 >山地麻蜥。就相对体长而言 ,中国石龙子 >山地麻蜥和北草蜥 > 变色树蜥 ,而头大小 、附肢长 度和尾长 的种 间差异趋势 则相反 ;体高 的种 间差异 为北 草蜥 >中国石龙 子和 变色 树蜥 >山地麻蜥。在平面上,山地麻蜥和北草蜥的速度显著大于中国石龙子和变色树蜥;在斜面上 ,变色树蜥 和山地麻蜥 的速度显著 高于中 国石龙 子。变色树蜥斜 面附着能力最 强 ,中国石龙 子最弱 。生境 利用不 同 的蜥蜴 形态迥异 ,运动能力亦 因此有显著 的差异 。本研究结 果支持动物形 态特征与其功能 表现相关 的观点。
Du, W.-G. & Lü, D. (2010) -
The body volume constraint hypothesis is a widely accepted notion that explains proximate limitation of female reproductive output, but lacks empirical support. To examine how body volume determines reproductive output, we experimentally manipulated the body volume of female lacertid lizard (Takydromus septentrionalis), to examine whether a reduction in body volume caused a reduction in reproductive output. Clutch size and mass decreased with a reduction in body volume. Reproductive output (residual clutch mass, RCM) was negatively related to body volume reduction (BVR) (RCM=−0.008BVR+0.225). In contrast, neither egg size nor offspring size was affected by the manipulation. Relative clutch mass was lower in manipulated females than in control females, but the actual physical burden (egg plus pearls) carried by manipulated females was much bigger than that of the control females. A normal clutch of eggs only filled 55% of maternal body volume, whereas manipulated females used 75% of body volume to contain eggs and pearls. Therefore, females are capable of carrying more eggs than a normal clutch. Our observations provide unequivocal empirical support for the maternal body volume constraint hypothesis. In addition, these results suggest that female T. septentrionalis may produce a clutch of eggs that fill the available abdomen space to an optimal level rather than the physical limit.
Du, W.-G. & Lu, Y.-W. & Li, X. (2003) -
Adult northern grass lizards (Takydromus septentrionalis) were collected at Mt.Xiaohe,Hangzhou in three periods of the breeding season,2001.They were dissected to determine sex,and storages of lipids in abdominal fat bodies,carcass,tail and liver.According to the stage of egg development (non-vitellogenetic follicles,yolked follicles,and oviductal eggs),females started vitellogenesis in later March (T1),produced eggs of the first clutch in early May (T2),and partly (37% of the sex) ceased reproduction in mid-June (T3).From T1 to T2,the abdominal fat body of females decreased from 17.3 mg on average to zero,and that of males changed from 6.3 mg to 0.8 mg.The decline of the lipid in females was 3 times of that of males.However,there was no significant change in lipid contents of the carcass,tail and liver in the three periods.It is very likely that the abdominal fat body of females is used for the first clutch of eggs,and earlier production of eggs means more clutches in the season and higher reproductive success.
杜卫国,陆神玮,计 翔 (2003) -
2001年在杭州小和山北草蜥繁殖季节的 3个时段分别捕得两性成年个体 ,解剖后鉴定性别 ,分离躯 干 、尾 、肝脏和腹脂肪体 ,并测定其重量。按雌体 卵的状态 (休 止卵 、卵黄沉积卵和输卵管卵),卵黄沉积始 于 3月 下旬 (T1),首窝 卵 产于 5月 上旬 (T2),部 分 (37% )终 止 繁殖 于 6月 中旬 (T3)。从 T1到 rI’2,雌 性 腹 脂肪体从平均 17.3mg至消失 ,而雄性从 6.3mg减至 0.8mg,雌性减量是雄性的 3倍 。两性 6月中旬腹脂肪体 消失 ,而躯干、尾和肝脏 的脂肪含量在 3个时段无显著变化。很可能雌性腹脂肪体的消耗使首窝卵产 出时间提 前 ,从而增加单个繁殖季节 的窝数和总的繁殖成功率。
Du, W.-G. & Lu, Y.-W. & Shen, J.-Y. (2005) -
The thermal environment can induce substantial variation in important life-history traits. Experimental manipulation of the thermal environment can help researchers determine the contribution of this factor to phenotypic variation in life-history traits. During the reproductive season, we kept female northern grass lizards, Takydromus septentrionalis (Lacertidae), in three temperature-controlled rooms (25, 28 and 32 1C) to measure the effect of the maternal thermal environment on reproductive traits. Maternal thermal environment remarkably affected reproductive frequency and thereby seasonal reproductive output, but had little effect on reproductive traits per clutch or hatchling traits. Females kept at 32 1C produced more clutches andthus hadshorter clutch intervals than females from 28 to 25 1C. Clutch size, clutch mass, relative clutch mass, egg size andhatchling traits didnot vary among the three treatments. The eggs produced by the females were incubated at 27 1C andthe traits of hatchlings were measured. The result that egg (offspring) size was independent of maternal thermal environments is consistent with the prediction of the optimal egg size (offspring) theory. The eggs produced by low temperature females (28 and 25 1C) took longer time to complete their post-oviposition development than did eggs produced by high temperature females (32 1C). This suggests that the eggs from low temperatures might have been laidwhen the embryos were at relatively early stages. Therefore, maternal thermal environment prior to oviposition couldaffect post-oviposition development in T. septentrionalis.
Du, W.-G. & Shou, L. (2008) -
Understanding seasonal variation in reproductive investment is crucial to explore life-history strategies of a given species. We measured the timing of reproduction and the reproductive output of recently captured females to test whether the conclusions on seasonal shifts of reproductive investment made in the laboratory can apply to field populations in a lacertid lizard Takydromus septentrionalis. Female T. septentrionalis started producing eggs in April and ceased reproduction in August. During the midreproductive season (May to July), more than 60% of field-captured females were gravid. The females produced more eggs and thus had heavier total egg mass in May than in July, although egg mass and hatchling size did not vary seasonally. The seasonal variation in clutch size did not induce seasonal shifts in trade-offs between clutch size and egg size. In general, these results are largely consistent with data collected in the laboratory and support the conclusion of previous studies in this species that seasonal shifts in reproductive output are determined ultimately by natural selection. However, Relative Clutch Mass (RCM) of recently captured females was greater than that of females in captivity, which suggests that RCMs could be affected noticeably by proximate factors. Therefore, when explaining the evolutionary strategies of an organism based on intraspecific comparisons of RCMs, investigators should measure them in a commongardenenvironment so as to control the potential influence of environmental factors.
Du, W.-G. & Yao, Z.-J. (2007) -
We observed mating behavior of the Northern Grass Lizard(Takydromus septentrionalis) in an outdoor enclosure with aims to define the ethogram of mating behavior patterns and to determine the relationship between reproductive success and individual phenotypes in males.The general pattern of mating behavior in T.septentrionalis was:approaching → tail-biting → belly-biting → copulation.Duration of each behavior was 0.53 min,1.77 min,0.47 min and 141.3 min,respectively.Seventy percent of males that successfully mated were with greater mean snout-vent length and body mass than that of females.The mating success of males was positively correlated with their body size,but with their head size(length and width),tail length,body mass or skin color.
Du, W.G. & Ji, X. & Zhang, Y.-P. (2006) -
Detecting inter-population differences in life-history traits is the first step in exploring the proximate and ultimate causes of such variation. We measured maternal body size and reproductive output of the lacertid lizard Takydromus septentrionalis from two island populations in eastern China to quantify inter-population variation. We captured female T. septentrionalis from the field and conducted a `common garden` experiment in the laboratory to measure their reproductive output. The study revealed major divergences in female body sizes, clutch mass and egg mass, but no significant difference in these traits was found between the first clutch and the later clutches. This suggests that the inter-population divergences persisted when the same groups of females were maintained in identical conditions in captivity. In contrast, there were no inter-population differences in size-adjusted fecundities, clutch size and relative clutch masses. Therefore, maternal body size plays an important role in determining female reproductive output in this species, but it does not account for all variation in reproductive traits. The egg size is less variable than the clutch size in each population, which gives support to the optimal egg size theory.
Du, W.G. & Radder, R.S. & Sun, B. & Shine, R. (2009) -
The eggs of birds typically hatch after a fixed (but lineage-specific) cumulative number of heart beats since the initiation of incubation. Is the same true for non-avian reptiles, despite wide intraspecific variation in incubation period generated by variable nest temperatures? Non-invasive monitoring of embryo heart beat rates in one turtle species (Pelodiscus sinensis) and two lizards (Bassiana duperreyi and Takydromus septentrionalis) show that the total number of heart beats during embryogenesis is relatively constant over a wide range of warm incubation conditions. However, incubation at low temperatures increases the total number of heart beats required to complete embryogenesis, because the embryo spends much of its time at temperatures that require maintenance functions but that do not allow embryonic growth or differentiation. Thus, cool-incubated embryos allocate additional metabolic effort to maintenance costs. Under warm conditions, total number of heart beats thus predicts incubation period in non-avian reptiles as well as in birds (the total number of heart beats are also similar); however, under the colder nest conditions often experienced by non-avian reptiles, maintenance costs add significantly to total embryonic metabolic expenditure.
Du, Y. & Ding G.-H. & Sun Y.-Y. & Ji, X. (2008) -
We used Takydromus septentrionalis as a model animal to examine whether lizards shift thermal preferences when fasted. The experiment was conducted in March 2007. Thirty-six adults collected from Shengsi, Zhoushan Islands, were equally assigned to experimental (fasted) and control (fed) groups, with nine housed together in a 0.6 × 0.2 × 0.5 m3 glass cage with moist soil (10 cm in depth), debris and grasses. A 100-W light bulb suspended above one end of each cage created a thermal gradient ranging from room temperatures (15–24 °C) to 60 °C for 12 h daily, so that lizards could thermoregulate during the photophase. Prior to the experiment, lizards were allowed to feed on mealworms (larvae of Tenebrio molitor) for 10 days. Thereafter experimental lizards were fasted for 20 days, and were measured for thermal preferences on Day 1–10, Day 15 and Day 20 since fasting. We found in fasted lizards that selected body temperature (Tsel, a measure of thermal preference) gradually decreased from 32.4 °C to 30.9 °C in the first four days, and then increased to a level similar to that (32.9 °C) recorded in the controls. Lizards fasted for 9 days or longer did not differ from controls in Tsel. Our study is the first to demonstrate that lizards fasted for a prolonged time may shift thermal preferences in a pattern well fitting to a Gaussian peak curve
Du, Y. & Qiu, Q.B. & Tong, Q.L. & Lin, L.H. (2016) -
In this paper, the complete mitochondrial genome of Eremias przewalskii (Squamata: Lacertidae) is reported, which is a circular molecule of 18,225 bp in size. The base composition of mtDNA is as follows: 30.3% A, 27.9% T, 27.9% C and 13.9% G. The genome consists of 13 protein coding genes, 22 transfer RNAs, 2 ribosomal RNA genes and one putative control region.
Duarte, J. & Farfan, M.A. (2010) -
Duarte, J. & Farfán, M.Á. (2023) -
In this study, we evaluated predation of the ocellated lizard on red-legged partridge nests in an olive grove in southern Spain over three consecutive years. The microhabitat characteristics of prey nests are analysed through comparison with successful nests. We found only 13 nests predated by lizards during the study period. This number was three times lower than that of nests that failed due to causes related to agricultural practices or human activity in the same period and study area. A few of the nests were predated by mammals more than they were preyed upon by lizards. The nests preyed on by lizards were associated with proximity to their refuge areas (e.g. stone piles, old buildings with holes, or rabbit burrows). The characteristics of the olive grove (e.g. drip irrigation and absence of vegetation under the olive trees) may favour the ocellated lizards’ search-and-hunt strategy, which allows a lizard to readily find a nest if it is inside the lizard’s territory and close to its refuge. We propose management strategies for reducing lizard-related nest losses. However, we argue that olive grove intensification is a major cause of partridge nest failure rather than predation by lizards and other predators.
Dubbeld, E.J. (1969) -
Dubbeld, E.J. (1970) -
Dubbeld, F.J. & Jacobi, W. & Kalverda, P. & Ouboter, P.E. (1974) -
Dubke, M. & Hipsley, C.A. & Müller, J. (2018) -
The anatomy of African lacertid lizards (Lacertidae: Eremiadini) is poorly known, which has hindered a better understanding of their evolutionary relationships. This applies especially to the East African clade, which includes the genera Nucras, Latastia, Philochortus, Pseuderemias and Heliobolus. We present a detailed description of the skull osteology of the genus Heliobolus using X-ray microcomputed tomography and compare its morphology to the above lacertid taxa. Because the genus Heliobolus includes species of doubtful validity and affinities (Heliobolus neumanni and Heliobolus nitidus), we also present a detailed intrageneric comparison and construct a morphological character matrix that we analyse against a phylogenetic backbone derived from previous molecular studies. Heliobolus lugubris and Heliobolus spekii can be well characterised as a monophyletic group on the basis of a short postorbital and a continuously broad posterior margin of the parietal, differing from H. nitidus and other members of the East African clade in an overall low degree of ossification and reduced ventral extension of the frontal bone. Our preliminary phylogenetic analysis suggests that the genus Heliobolus is currently polyphyletic. We propose that the name H. neumanni be officially retracted, because specimens assigned to this species show very different morphologies relative to each other and are placed in different parts of the tree in our analysis. Also, the type specimen is lost and no specimens were collected from the type locality. H. nitidus shows a signal towards the genus Latastia. A definitive, new generic assignment of H. nitidus must await further investigations based on molecular data.
Dubois, A. (1984) -
Contrary to what is usually believed, the specific name Lacerta galloti must be credited to Oudart (1839) instead of Duméril & Bibron (1839). The two specimens MNHN 2744 and 2744 A, collected in Tenerife by Webb & Berthelot, and figured by Oudart (1839), are the only syntypes of this species. Therefore, the designation by Boulenger (1920) of a third specimen (MNHN 2743) as lectotype of the species is not valid, and the designation by Bischoff (1982) of the specimen MNHN 2744 as lectotype, although posterior to that of Boulenger (1920), is valid.
Dubois, P. (2011) -
Dücker, G. & Rensch, B. (1973) -
Dudek, K. (2015) -
The common wall lizard is a new lacertid species in the Polish herpetofauna. However, the discovered populations seem to be introduced. In this article, I intend to describe a possible way of lizards dispersal through railways. I suppose that the common wall lizard may colonize new areas by freight trains as an incidental cargo from quarries they inhabit.
Dudek, K. & Ekner-Grzyb, A.Y. (2014) -
Dudek, K. & Koczura, R. & Gawalek, M. & Sajkowska, Z.A. & Ekner-Grzyb, A. (2015) -
Salmonellosis is one of the most urgent public health problems across the world. Reptiles are a known reservoir of Salmonella spp. and in some regions they are also associated with human salmonellosis. This concerns especially popular pet reptiles, e.g. turtles or bearded dragons; however, there is also a need for studies regarding wild reptiles as a pathogen source. In this study, sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) were investigated as a potential reservoir of Salmonella spp. in Poznań, Poland, using cloacal swabs and faecal samples. Moreover, clonal analysis of the isolates was conducted using ERIC-PCR fingerprinting. Thirty eight lizards were investigated, nine of which (24%) proved positive for S. enterica subsp. houtenae. The prevalence level was lower than previously observed in exotic species (up to above 40%). Two clones were present in several lizards. Specimens with similar clones were captured at the same location and time, suggesting horizontal transfer of bacterial strains between lizards. Because the isolated subspecies of Salmonella is very rarely reported as a causative agent of human salmonellosis, sand lizards seem to pose little or no threat for public health.
Dudek, K. & Sajkowska, Z. & Gawalek, M. & Ekner-Grzyb, A. (2014) -
Dudek, K. & Sajkowska, Z. & Gawalek, M. & Ekner-Grzyb, A. (2015) -
In ecological and morphological studies, researchers often use body condition index as a measure of an individual’s fitness. Our research shows that body condition index may be an unreliable method for this purpose, because changes in lizards’ body proportions are not stable during their lifetime. Results obtained from a Polish population of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) show that the body length increases faster than the body mass, meaning that the correlation between these 2 parameters is not linear. Herpetologists frequently use the body condition index to compare the fitness of lizards of different ages. Our study demonstrates that this method may not be accurate; in the future, research should strive to develop new ways of measuring lizards’ fitness.
Dudek, K. &, Skórka, P. & Sajkowska, Z. A. & Ekner-Grzyb, A. & Dudek, M. & Tryjanowski, P. (2016) -
The success of ectoparasites depends primarily on the site of attachment and body condition of their hosts. Ticks usually tend to aggregate on vertebrate hosts in specific areas, but the distribution pattern may depend on host body size and condition, sex, life stage or skin morphology. Here, we studied the distribution of ticks on lizards and tested the following hypothesis: occurrence or high abundance of ticks is confined with body parts with smaller scales and larger interscalar length because such sites should provide ticks with superior attachment conditions. This study was performed in field conditions in central Poland in 2008–2011. In total, 500 lizards (Lacerta agilis) were caught and 839 ticks (Ixodes ricinus, larvae and nymphs) were collected from them. Using generalised linear mixed models, we found that the ticks were most abundant on forelimbs and their axillae, with 90% of ticks attached there. This part of the lizard body and the region behind the hindlimb were covered by the smallest scales with relatively wide gaps between them. This does not fully support our hypothesis that ticks prefer locations with easy access to skin between scales, because it does not explain why so few ticks were in the hindlimb area. We found that the abundance of ticks was positively correlated with lizard body size index (snout-vent length). Tick abundance was also higher in male and mature lizards than in female and young individuals. Autotomy had no effect on tick abundance. We found no correlation between tick size and lizard morphology, sex, autotomy and body size index. The probability of occurrence of dead ticks was positively linked with the total number of ticks on the lizard but there was no relationship between dead tick presence and lizard size, sex or age. Thus lizard body size and sex are the major factors affecting the abundance of ticks, and these parasites are distributed nearly exclusively on the host’s forelimbs and their axillae.
Dudley, R. & Byrnes, G. & Yanoviak, S.P. & Borrell, B. & Brown, R.M. & McGuire, J.A. (2007) -
A biomechanically parsimonious hypothesis for the evolution of flap- ping flight in terrestrial vertebrates suggests progression within an arboreal context from jumping to directed aerial descent, gliding with control via appendicular motions, and ultimately to powered flight. The more than 30 phylogenetically independent lineages of arboreal vertebrate gliders lend strong indirect support to the eco- logical feasibility of such a trajectory. Insect flight evolution likely followed a similar sequence, but is unresolved paleontologically. Re- cently described falling behaviors in arboreal ants provide the first ev- idence demonstrating the biomechanical capacity for directed aerial descent in the complete absence of wings. Intentional control of body trajectories as animals fall from heights (and usually from veg- etation) likely characterizes many more taxa than is currently recog- nized. Understanding the sensory and biomechanical mechanisms used by extant gliding animals to control and orient their descent is central to deciphering pathways involved in flight evolution.
Dufaure, J.-P. (1960) -
Dufaure, J.-P. (1964) -
Dufaure, J.-P. (1970) -
Interstitial cells of the testis of Lacerta vivipara have been studied electronmicroscopically in animals obtained between spring and autumn. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria with tubular cristae are the most prominent organels, lipid droplets and Golgi apparatus being also well developed. The most significant ultrastructural changes occur between spring and the beginning of summer. In spring, during the hypertrophy of secondary sexual characters, a conspicuous system of vesicles and vacuoles originates from the smooth endoplasmic reticulum and probably also from the Golgi apparatus. At the beginning of summer, when secondary sexual characters are atrophied, vacuoles are less prominent and the smooth endoplasmic reticulum consists of a dense network of typical tubules, often closely associated with the lipid droplets; the cristae of the mitochondria are swollen. These ultrastructural findings are discussed in relation to the production of hormones. The hypertrophy of membrane systems in spring corresponds presumably to production or (and) release of androgen hormones. In the beginning of summer the cell does not produce androgens, but probably is not completely inactive: it may store precursors of hormones.
Dufaure, J.-P. (1971) -
Sertoli cells of the testis of Lacerta vivipara have been studied electron microscopically in animals obtained between spring and autumn during two years and in animals hypophysectomized in autumn. These cells contain numerous small mitochondria with lamellar cristae, free ribosomes, smooth endoplasmic reticulum moderately developed, several small dictyosomes forming the Golgi complex, lipid droplets and microtubules. There are numerous dense bodies of large size with an heterogeneous content which seem to be of lysosomial nature. Glycogen consists of β particles dispersed at random in the hyaloplasm. Seasonal variations in the content of glycogen are noted. In hypophysectomized animals Sertoli cells contain large amounts of that metabolite whose particles are concentrated in small areas often around the lipid droplets. Possible role of the Sertoli cells concerning mechanical support and nutrition of the germinal cells, production of hormones and phagocytosis of residual bodies are discussed. The variations in the glycogen content are also discussed.
Dufaure, J.-P. (1979) -
Dufaure, J.-P. (1983) -
Dufaure, J.-P. & Chambon, M. (1983) -
Dufaure, J.-P. & Depeiges, A. & Chambon, M. (1983) -
During the breeding season (April, May) the epididymis of the lizard Lacerta vivipara produces voluminous secretory granules which are abundantly discharged into the lumen of the duct where they mingle with spermatozoa. The mode of secretion appears quite unusual with respect to the method by which the cells discharge their products, the granules coming out of the cells like bullets out of a gun barrel. Spermatozoa come into close relationships with discharged granules, dipping into their outer layers. This is probably the way in which the heads of spermatozoa become covered with the epididymal soluble protein (protein L). This mode of secretion in Lacerta is discussed with regard to possible artifacts and compared with that encountered in the epididymis of some other species including mammals.
Dufaure, J.-P. & Gigon, A. (1975) -
The lizard epididymis is controlled by the testis, as is demonstrated by castration. It selectively retains testosterone and is capable of converting this hormone into 5α-dihydrotestosterone and 5α-androstanediols. Furthermore, it shows marked modifications of structure, particularly of the epithelium, during the annual cycle and is characterized by a copious secretion when active. In organotypic culture of regressed cells from castrated animals we have obtained secretory cells of normal size after treatment with a variety of androgens. Different degrees of stimulation were observed: 5α-DHT and 3β-androstanediol are more potent than 3α-androstanediol and the latter is more potent than testosterone.Electron-microscopic examination of treated tissue shows that 5αDHT produces an increase in nuclear and nucleolar size and conspicuously stimulates the production of rough endoplasmic reticulum.It is suggested that this organ might be used as a model to study the mechanism of androgen action.
Dufaure, J.-P. & Hubert, J. (1961) -
Dufaure, J.-P. & Mesure, M. (1967) -
Duflos, S. (2000) -
Dufresnes, C. & Ambu, J. & Nembrini, M. & Duibey, S. (2011) -
National species lists, especially red lists, must account for the latest taxonomic updates in order to best protect newly discovered biodiversity. Here we demonstrate the cryptic presence of a new species for the Swiss herpetofauna: Carnie’s lizard Zootoca carniolica, an oviparous form of the viviparous common lizard Z. vivipara, which was recently elevated to species rank given their complete reproductive isolation. A few years ago, a range-wide phylogeographic study have genetically barcoded this subalpine species in Val Morobbia (Ticino), just a few hundred meters from the Italian border, but this finding has subsequently remained unnoticed. According to fine-scale distribution data, this population is presumably isolated, and the closest populations in Graubünden and northern Ticino all likely correspond to Z. vivipara. Since Val Morobbia is the only swiss record of Z. carniolica, the species rises as the most endangered reptile of the country. We confirmed the persistence of this population as of summer 2021 and call for immediate actions to document the geographic extent and life history of Z. carniolica in Switzerland, in order to implement conservation measures.
Dugarov, Z.N. & Baldanova, D.R. & Khamnueva, T.R. (2017) -
The effects of the degree of urbanization on the composition and mean abundance of helminth species and the structure of helminth communities in the Mongolian racerunner were investigated along a rural–urban gradient in the region of Ulan-Ude city (the Republic of Buryatia, Russia) and neighbouring rural districts. Racerunners were obtained from key areas and categorized into three grades based on the degree of urbanization. In this study, a total of 208 lizards were examined. The helminth communities in the Mongolian racerunner were studied at the infracommunity and component community levels. The nematode Spauligodon pseudoeremiasi was a sensitive bioindicator of the degree of urbanization in our study. All parameters of helminth infracommunities in the Mongolian racerunner were significantly reduced with increasing degree of urbanization of the key areas. Two parameters of helminth component communities (the proportion of hosts infected with parasites and the Shannon index) were significantly reduced with increasing degree of urbanization. The decline recorded in parameters of helminth infracommunities and component communities in the Mongolian racerunner were probably connected with the attenuation of the relationships between helminths, having a complex life cycle with intermediate hosts along the rural–urban gradient.
Dugès, A. (1829) -
Dugès, A. (1832) -
Duguy, R. (1967) -
Dühr, K. (2020) -
Brief presentation oft wo remarkably coloured male sand lizards from Niederhöchstadt in Rhineland-Palatinate.
Dujsebayeva, T. & Chirikova, M. (2001) -
Dujsebayeva, T.N. (2010) -
Dujsebayeva, T.N. & Barabanov, A.B. & Ananjeva, N.B. (2018) -
In this article, a list of lizards of fauna of Kazakhstan, compiled according to the latest taxonomic revisions with the aim of unifying the taxonomy is presented, and a short outline of the history of views on the composition of fauna of Kazakhstan lizards are presented. The tasks of this work are explained by a significant increase in the number of special publications and frequent changes in views on the phylogenetic position and taxonomic status of species.
Т.Н. Дуйсебаева & А.В. Барабанов & Н.Б. Ананьева (2018) -
В настоящей статье приведен список ящериц фауны Казахстана, составлен- ный согласно последним таксономическим ревизиям с целью унификации таксономии на данном отрезке времени, а также представлен краткий очерк истории взглядов на состав фауны ящериц Казахстана. Задачи этой рабо- ты продиктованы существенным ростом числа специальных публикаций и частыми изменениями во взглядах на филогенетическое положение и так- сономический статус видов.
Dujsebayeva, T.N. & Belyalov, O.V. & Orlova, V.F. & Chirikova, M.A. (2007) -
Dujsebayeva, T.N. & Chirikova, M.A. & Belyalov, O.V. (2009) -
New finds of the lizards of Eremias multiocellata complex became known for extreme southeast of Kazakhstan. In 2006-2007 re recorded the lizards in the mountain valleys of Kegen and Tekes Rivers creossing an intermountain depression located between Ketmen’ and Terskey-Alatau at altitude 1850-1950 m a.s.l. Morphological analysis revealed the reliable differences of the specimens collected from other species of multiocellata complex inhabited the close areas – E. stummeri from Issyk-Kul’ Depression and E. kokshaaliensis from Sary-Dzhaz River Basin of Kyrgyzstan. Morphological peculiarity of the populations recorded may be caused by their isolative position in extreme southeast of Kazakhstan and needs future elucidation.
Dujsebayeva, T.N. & Fedotovskikh, G.V. & Strelyukhina, N.A. (2007) -
The paper presents data on the histology and ultrastructure of the liver of two lizard species, Lacerta agilis and Eremias arguta, inhabiting the territory of the former Semipalatinsk Test Site (Eastern Kazakhstan). An LM study has shown the presence of pathological changes expressed in irregular vascular filling of the liver and venous, local discomplexation of hepatocyte, vacuole and adipose dystrophies and an increase of the local micronecroses where the lymphocyte, resident macrophage and Kupffer cell infiltrations have been registered. An EM investigation has revealed the features of glycogenolysis and decreasing of the lipid embeddings, the phenomenon of hydropical dystrophy and intracellular swelling in the certain part of the hepatocytes, significant hemosiderin accumulations in the liver cells appeared because of intensified catabolism of the phagocyted erythrocytes. The high level of metabolism processes was provided by utilization of the lipid embeddings, the high level of nucleoprotein synthesis and intensification of phosphorylating function of the mitochondria. The functional activity of Kupfer’s hyperplastic cells was directed to the synthesis of pigment granules, the mostimportant role among which belongs to melanin as a strong antioxidant protecting the body against free radicals.
Dujsebayeva, T.N. & Malakhov, D.V. & Berezovikov, N.N. & Guo, X. & Liu, J. & Cherednichenko, A.V. (2019) -
The distribution and habitat characteristics of two Eremias species (E. arguta and E. stummeri) from contiguous areas of southeastern Kazakhstan, northeastern Kyrgyzstan, and western Xinjiang, China, were analyzed using GIS modeling. We show that both species are dry-steppe-adapted xerophilous lizards with sclerophilic and partially petrophilic specialization. In spite of the visible similarity of the ecological niches (ENs) occupied by E. arguta and E. stummeri, the latter differs in a number of key variables. While most of the precipitation variables, the radiation of the winter and off-season months, and afternoon (PM) humidity are most important for E. arguta habitats, the habitats suitable for E. stummeri are limited by temperature variables, radiation during most of the year, and morning (AM) humidity. Differences on this scale indicate the way in which these lizards are adapted to different ecosystems — E. arguta to the plains and E. stummeri to the mountains — and support the views on their different zoogeographical accessory. Avisible correspondence of the distributional pattern of the two Eremias species to the mountain piedmonts and low foothills, with Pliocene-Quaternary concreted pebble deposits and the loess strata, permit us to consider mountain trails as the most likely means by which the species expanded in the Late Cenozoic period. Pronounced isolation of the populations in the Northern and the Central Tien Shan intramontane depressions appears as a factor from at least the Late Pliocene (E. stummeri) and the Middle Pleistocene (E. arguta) periods; and the association of the lizard habitats with loess deposits has given rise to the suggestion that there was an absence of serious change in their ranges during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Low precipitation, a high annual temperature range and the high aridity of the climate in general beyond the ENM optimum of E. arguta all point to severe conditions for lizards surviving already in the eastern part of the Ily Basin and explain the limited species distribution in the highly arid deserts of Xinjiang. In terms of methodology, our data highlights the lack of a ‘generalized set’ of BIOCLIM parameters in the ecological niche modeling of the mountain species. In particular, moisture and solar radiation as well as the relief variables play an important role in the ecological health of the poikilothermic xerophilous species inhabiting mountain areas.
Dujsebayeva, T.N. & Orlova, V.F. (2002) -
Dujsebayeva, T.N. & V.F. Orlova (2009) -
The paper summarizes data on the distribution and ecology of viviparous lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Jacquin, 1787), in Markakol depression and the surrounding areas of Eastern Kazakhstan. Analysis of ther original data collected by the authors in 2000 – 2003 and revision of museum records have revealed a wide distribution of the species in Markakol despression and the Southern Altai mounatins in general, within an altitude range of 1450 – 2400 m above s.l. Data on habitats, abundance, seasonal and daily activity as well as some aspects of the breeding biology of the lizard are discussed. Maps with Z. vivipara records in Eastern Kazakhstan and markakol despression arew presented.
Дуйсебаева Т.Н., Орлова В.Ф. (2009) -
Обобщены данные по распространению и экологии живородящей ящерицы - Zootoca vivipara (Jacquin,1787) в Маркакольской котловине и прилежащих районах Восточного Казахстана. В результате анализа собственных материалов, собранных в 2000 - 2003 гг., и ревизии музейных сборов показано, что вид широко распространен в Маркакольской котловине и на Южном Алтае в целом, в диапазоне высот от 1450 - 2400 м н.у.м. Обсуждаются особенности биотопического размещения и численности вида, сезонная и суточная активность, а также некоторые аспекты репродуктивной биологии. Приводятся карты с точками находок Z. vivipara в Восточном Казахстане и Маркакольской котловине.
Dumbović, V. & Posavec Vukelić, V. & Duplić, A. & Katušić, L. & Jelić, D. & Boršić, I. & Partl A. (2009) -
Duméril, A.M.C. & Bibron, G. (1834) -
Duméril, A.M.C. & Bibron, G. (1839) -
Dunaev, E.A. & Orlova, V.F. (2017) -
From the publisher: Before you a unique atlas-determinant. For the first time in one edition descriptions of all species of amphibians and reptiles living on the territory of Russia are presented, illustrated with beautiful color photographs. The book is written by E.A. Dunaev and V.F. Orlova, the famous Russian herpetologists, researchers of the Zoological Museum of Moscow State University named after MV Lomonosov. Lomonosov. A simple and accessible form of presentation, detailed descriptions of the external appearance, lifestyle and behavior, photographs reflecting all variants of the variability of these animals, will help the curious reader to become more familiar with turtles, snakes, lizards, frogs and other representatives of the herpetofauna. And special keys will allow you to determine who you met on a country walk, in a city park, at a dacha or while traveling to different corners of our country. The book is of great interest not only for nature lovers, but also for specialists in herpetology and students of biological faculties of universities. It lists the amphibians and reptiles of the native fauna, reflects the latest changes in the taxonomy of these groups, lists species included in the Red Book of Russia and regional Red Books, lists reference and scientific publications on reptiles and amphibians of Russian fauna.
Дунаев, Е.A. & Орлова, B.Ф. (2017) -
От издателя: Перед вами уникальный атлас-определитель. Впервые в одном издании представлены описания всех видов земноводных и пресмыкающихся, обитающих на территории России, проиллюстрированные прекрасными цветными фотографиями. Книга написана Е.А. Дунаевым и В.Ф. Орловой, известными отечественными герпетологами, научными сотрудниками Зоологического музея Московского государственного университета имени М.В. Ломоносова.Простая и доступная форма изложения, подробные описания внешнего облика, образа жизни и поведения, фотографии, отражающие все варианты изменчивости этих животных, помогут любознательному читателю ближе познакомиться с черепахами, змеями, ящерицами, лягушками и другими представителями герпетофауны. А специальные ключи позволят определить, с кем именно вы встретились на загородной прогулке, в городском парке, на даче или во время путешествий по различным уголкам нашей страны. Книга представляет большой интерес не только для любителей природы, но и для специалистов-герпетологов и студентов биологических факультетов вузов. В ней приведен полный список амфибий и рептилий отечественной фауны, отражены новейшие изменения в таксономии этих групп, указаны виды, включенные в Красную книгу России и региональные Красные книги, перечислены справочные и научные издания, посвященные рептилиям и амфибиям фауны России.
Dunayev, E. & Orlova, V. (2023) -
Dunayev, E.A. (2021) -
The distribution of melanistic specimens of Zootoca vivipara is analyzed for the entire range (based on the review of literature data and the available publications in the iNaturalist). Most of the indings in European countries are associated with mountainous landscapes, while in the eastern part of species range range melanistic specimens are associated with habitats with varying degrees of moisture or proximity to water bodies (ponds, rivers, marshes). A melanistic male (on 21.07.2012) and a female (on 16.07.1919) were recorded in the vicinity of the railway platform Karmanovo (Moscow Province, Taldomsky District: 56.695437° N, 37.192758° E); these specimens are uniform black with olive-yellow (olivaceo-lavus — Bondartzev, 1954) distal edges of the abdominal, femoral, preanal and tail shields. This partially melanistic colouration is however not considered as an abundism.
Dunbar, J.P. & Ennis, C. & Gandola, R. & Dugon, M.M. (2017) -
As the Noble false widow spider Steatoda nobilis (Thorell 1875) continues to expand its range across Europe, Asia and the Americas, its potential as an invasive species has not yet been fully assessed. Latrodectinae spiders are remarkably adaptable and possess fast-acting neurotoxic venom that can cause neuromuscular paralysis in vertebrates and occasionally feed on small reptiles. We describe here a predation event by a mature female Steatoda nobilis on a juvenile Zootoca vivipara lizard in suburban Dublin. This is the first report of Steatoda nobilis preying on a vertebrate, and the first report of a terrestrial vertebrate organism falling prey to an arachnid in Ireland. Zootoca vivipara is a protected species in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and may increasingly fall prey to Steatoda nobilis as urbanisation encroaches on lizard habitat. Therefore, Steatoda nobilis should be closely monitored outside of its original native range to assess its status as an invasive species.
Dunger, G.T. (1967) -
Dunjó Arribas, A. (2019) -
Circadian rhythms are the oscillations of biological variables at regular intervals of time. Natural selection has favored the evolution of circadian rhythms and animals that adjust to the activity according to the most favorable environmental circumstances. However, the circadian rhythms persist demonstrating their endogenous character, but enter the rhythm of the free course “free running rhythm”. The parietal eye is part of the epithalamus, it is a photoreceptor organ and is associated with the pineal gland, regulating the circadian rhythm and hormonal production for thermoregulation. In reference to the circadian system, the pineal organ plays an important role in the regulation of rhythms. It has been shown that, through pinealectomy, marked changes have occurred in the periods of free course and arrhythmias in lizards. The hypothesis of this study is based on the effect of covering the parietal eye, blocking the arrival of the environmental light estimation to the pineal gland, which would cause a pronounced imbalance in the activity-inactivity rhythm. In the event that this pronounced desynchronization does not occur, it will be necessary to consider that there are other or other ways that synchronize the activity-inactivity rhythm in this species. The function of the pineal organ in the regulation of the circadian rhythm of the lancet Gallotia galloti. The experiment consisted in recording the circadian rhythm of the lizards in 3 different cycles. A first cycle consisted of 12 hours of light and dark, in the second cycle they were maintained in 24 hours of constant light and in the third cycle they returned to the conditions of the first cycle. The second part of the experiment consisted of performing the same procedure, but this time the parietal organ of the animal. For the analysis of the data, statistical analyzes, actograms and the cosinor method are used. The results indicate that the parietal eye in the Gallotia galloti species is not the main mechanism by which the pineal gland receives light information from the environment. If not, it could be assumed that there are signaling pathways in these animals.
Dunn, W. (2016) -
Dünzen, H. (1939) -
In der Milz der Eidechse (Abb. 4a) ist keine Sonderung in weiße und in rote Pulpa nachweisbar. Auch kommt eine Unterteilung der roten Pulpa in besondere Pulpastränge hier noch nicht vor. In dieser Hinsicht ist also die Pulpa der menschlichen Milz komplizierter gebaut (s. Abschnitt Schlußfolgerung beiBlechschmidt 1937). 2. In der Milzkapsel fehlen Muskeln. 3. Die Verteilung der Arterien und der arteriellen Kapillaren erfolgt gleichmäßig (Abb. 6). 4. Die größeren Arterien teilen sich vorwiegend dichotomisch (Abb. 6,P); die Aufteilung in die Kapillaren erfolgt pinselartig („Kapillarbüschel“ Abb. 6,KB). 5. In der Eidechsenmilz gibt es keine Kapillarhülsen. 6. Die arteriellen Kapillaren enden im Reticulum (Abb. 10). 7. Im Reticulum sind engere und weitere Maschen zu unterscheiden. Letztere ordnen sich zu röhrenförmigen Gebilden — denReticulumröhrchen (Abb. 10,R). 8. Die in der Eidechsenmilz vorhandenen venösen Sinus (Abb. 10,US) stehen nur selten untereinander in Verbindung. Ihr Anteil an der Masse des Reticulums ist gering. Ihre Wand entspricht der vonS. Mollier für andere niedere Wirbel angegebenen Bauweise. 9. Die Pulpavenen (Abb. 11,PV) besitzen keine Muskularis. Ihr Bindegewebe ist während ihres weiteren Verlaufes im Inneren der Milz auffallend schwach. Hier werden diese Venen nur durch die Arterien gestützt (Abb. 12, V). Eigentliche Trabekel gibt es nicht.
Dupoué, A. & Angelier, F. & Ribout, C. & Meylan, S. & Rozen-Rechels, D. & Decencière, B. & Agostini, S. & J.-F. le Galliard (2020) -
Animals use a variety of strategies to avoid acute dehydration and death. Yet,how chronic exposure to sub-lethal dehydration may entail physiological andfitness costs remains elusive. In this study, we experimentally tested if waterrestriction causesincreasedoxidativestress (OS)andtelomerelength(TL)short-ening, two well-described mediators of environment–fitness relationships. Weexposed 100 yearling female and male common lizards (Zootoca vivipara)eitherto a 51-day period of water restriction or to water ad libitum, followed by 45days in common garden outdoor conditions. We measured the kinetic changesin OS and TL and found that water-restricted males had enhanced antioxidantdefences and decreased oxidative damage at day 36, whereas females did notimmediately respond. A month and a half after water restriction, both sexesexperienced a drop in antioxidant capacity but only males exhibited significantTL shortening. In the following 3 years, we found that lizards with longer initialTL and those who maintained stronger antioxidant defences experiencedhigherlongevity, irrespective ofsex and water restriction.Together,theseresultsunravelled sex-specific responses to water restriction, with potential appli-cations in better understanding the physiological costs of increasing summerdroughts as a result of global climate change.
Dupoué, A. & Blaimont, P. & Rozen-Rechels, D. & Richard, M. & Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. & Miless, D.B. & Martin, R. & Decencières, B. & Agostini, S. & Galliard, J.F. le (2019) -
1. Reproduction involves considerable reorganization in an organism`s physiology that incurs potential toxicity for cells (e.g., oxidative stress) and decrease in fitness. This framework has been the cornerstone of the so-called ‘oxidative cost of reproduction’, a theory that remains controversial and relatively overlooked in non-model ectotherms. 2. Here, we used two complementary approaches in natural and controlled conditions to test whether altered access to climate conditions (water and temperature resources) alters oxidative status and mediates reproductive trade-offs in viviparous populations of the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara). 3. First, we examined whether access to free-standing water and differences in ambient temperature across 12 natural populations could be related to variation in oxidative status, reproductive effort and reproductive success. Second, we determined whether an experimental restriction to water triggers higher oxidative cost of reproduction and correlates with fitness measures (reproductive success, future survival rate and probability of future reproduction). 4. Pregnant females exhibited higher sensitivity than males to natural or experimental limitations in temperature and water access. That is, in restricted environments, pregnant females with higher reproductive effort exhibited stronger oxidative damage despite enhanced non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity. 5. Enhanced antioxidant defensive capacity in pregnant females was positively correlated with higher reproductive success, whereas elevated oxidative damage negatively correlated with offspring annual survival. 6. Altogether, our results revealed a context-dependent oxidative cost of reproduction that was concomitant with a conflict in water demand from offspring. These new insights should be critical for understanding ectotherm responses to heat waves and summer droughts that are increasing in frequency and duration.
Dupoué, A. & Rutschmann, A. & Galliard, J,F. le & Miles, D.B. & Clobert, J. & Nardo, D.F. de & Brusch IV, G.A. & Maylan, S. (2017) -
Water conservation strategies are well documented in species living in water-limited environments, but physiological adaptations to water availability in temperate climate environments are still relatively overlooked. Yet, temperate species are facing more frequent and intense droughts as a result of climate change. Here, we examined variation in field hydration state (plasma osmolality) and standardized evaporative water loss rate (SEWL) of adult male and pregnant female common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) from 13 natural populations with contrasting air temperature, air humidity, and access to water. We found different patterns of geographic variation between sexes. Overall, males were more dehydrated (i.e. higher osmolality) than pregnant females, which likely comes from differences in field behaviour and water intake since the rate of SEWL was similar between sexes. Plasma osmolality and SEWL rate were positively correlated with environmental temperature in males, while plasma osmolality in pregnant females did not correlate with environmental conditions, reproductive stage or reproductive effort. The SEWL rate was significantly lower in populations without access to free standing water, suggesting that lizards can adapt or adjust physiology to cope with habitat dryness. Environmental humidity did not explain variation in water balance. We suggest that geographic variation in water balance physiology and behaviour should be taken account to better understand species range limits and sensitivity to climate change.
Dupoué, A. & Rutschmann, A. & Galliard, J.F. le & Clobert, J. & Angelier, F. & Marciau, C. & Ruault, S. & Miles, D. & Meylan, S. (2017) -
Identifying the early warning signals of catastrophic extinctions has recently become a central focus for ecologists, but species’ functional responses to environmental changes remain an untapped source for the sharpening of such warning signals. Telomere length (TL) analysis represents a promising molecular tool with which to raise the alarm regarding early population decline, since telomere attrition is associated with aging processes and accelerates after a recurrent exposure to environmental stressors. In the southern margin of their range, populations of the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) recently became extinct at lowest elevations due to changes in climate conditions. However, the proximal signals involved in these demographic declines are still unknown. Here, we sampled 100 yearling lizards from 10 natural populations (n = 10 per population) along an extinction risk gradient. Relative lizard abundance dramatically dropped over 12 years in low-altitude populations characterized by warmer ambient temperatures and higher body growth of lizards early in life. A non-linear relationship was found between TL and population extinction risk, with shorter telomeres in populations facing high risk of extinction when compared to non-threatened ones. Our results identify TL as a promising biomarker and imply that population extinctions might be preceded by a loop of physiological aging.
Dupoué, A. & Rutschmann, A. & Galliard, J.F. le & Clobert, J. & Blaimont, P. & Sinervo, B. & Miles, D.B. & Haussy, C. & Meylan, S. (2018) -
1. Climate change should lead to massive loss of biodiversity in most taxa, but the detailed physiological mechanisms underlying population extinction remain largely elusive so far. In vertebrates, baseline levels of hormones such as glucocorticoids (GCs) may be indicators of population state as their secretion to chronic stress can impair survival and reproduction. However, the relationship between GC secretion, climate change and population extinction risk remains unclear. 2. In this study, we investigated whether levels of baseline corticosterone (the main GCs in reptiles) correlate with environmental conditions and associated extinction risk across wild populations of the common lizard Zootoca vivipara. 3. First, we performed a cross‐sectional comparison of baseline corticosterone levels along an altitudinal gradient among 14 populations. Then, we used a longitudinal study in eight populations to examine the changes in corticosterone levels following the exposure to a heatwave period. 4. Unexpectedly, baseline corticosterone decreased with increasing thermal conditions at rest in females and was not correlated with extinction risk. In addition, baseline corticosterone levels decreased after exposure to an extreme heatwave period. This seasonal corticosterone decrease was more pronounced in populations without access to standing water. 5. We suggest that low basal secretion of corticosterone may entail downregulating activity levels and limit exposure to adverse climatic conditions, especially to reduce water loss. These new insights suggest that rapid population decline might be preceded by a downregulation of the corticosterone secretion.
Dupoué, A. & Sorlin, M. & Richard, M. & Galliard, J.F. le & Lourdais, O. & Clobert, J. & Aubret, F. (2020) -
Parent-offspring conflicts are widespread given that resources are often limited. Recent evidence has shown that availability of water can trigger such conflict during pregnancy in viviparous squamate species (lizards and snakes) and thus questions the role of water in the evolution of reproductive modes. Here, we examined the impact of water restriction during gravidity in the oviparous form of the bimodal common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), using a protocol previously used on the viviparous form. Females were captured in early gravidity from six populations along a 600 m altitudinal gradient to investigate whether environmental conditions (altitude, water access and temperature) exacerbate responses to water restriction. Females were significantly dehydrated after water restriction, irrespective of their reproductive status (gravid vs. non-reproductive), relative reproductive effort (relative clutch mass), and treatment timing (embryonic development stage). Female dehydration, together with reproductive performance, varied with altitude, probably due to long term acclimation or local adaptation. This moderate water-based intergenerational conflict in gravid females contrasts sharply with previous findings for the viviparous form, with implications to the evolutionary reversion from viviparity to oviparity. It is likely that oviparity constitutes a water-saving reproductive mode which might help mitigate intensive temperature-driven population extinctions at low altitudes.
Durand, J. & Legrand, A. & Tort, M. & Thiney, A. & Michniewicz, R.J. & Coulon, A. & Aubret, F. (2012) -
Alteration in anti-predatory behaviour following geographic isolation has been observed in a number of taxa. Such alteration was attributed to the effect of relaxed selection in the novel environment, reinforced by the cost of anti-predatory behaviours. We studied aspects of anti-snake behaviour in 987 adult and juvenile wall lizards Podarcis muralis from two mainland areas (heavy snake predatory pressure) and two islands (low snake predatory pressure), isolated from the mainland 5000 and 7000 years ago. We conducted a scented retreat site choice experiment using the odours of five different snake species (saurophagous, piscivorous or generalist feeder). Mainland lizards avoided shelters scented by saurophagous snakes, but not those scented by non saurophagous snake species. Long isolated lizards (7000 years ago) showed no anti-predator response to any snake, suggesting a total loss of anti-predatory behaviour towards saurophagous snakes. More recently isolated lizards (5000 years ago) however showed anti-snake behaviour towards a former sympatric adder species, and a tendency to avoid the scent of a sympatric generalist feeder snake. There was no difference in the anti-snake responses between adult and juvenile wall lizards from all four sites, suggesting a limited role for experience (behavioural plasticity) in the expression of anti-snake behaviour in wall lizards.
Dürigen, B. (1891) -
Durmus, S.H. (1999) -
In this study, the samples of the populations from the Ankara and Bursa regions have been examined, for the first time, from the comparative taxonomic point of view. After comparison of the two separate populations, which are quite far away from each other, it has been seen that the above mentioned populations do not show important differences from each other at the species level. However, some nuance in body size have been noticed between these two populations. Hence, we may say that P. muralis populations in the Ankara and Bursa regions are not different from the nominate subspecies (P.m. muralis).
Dürr, P. (2001) -
Dürst, T. (2019) -
Dusch, J. (2020) -
Dusch, J. & Laufer, H. & Lenz, S. & Martens, A. (2020) -
Dusej, G. (2001) -
Dusej, G. & Billing, H. (1991) -
Dusej, G. & Müller, P. (1997) -
Düsen, S. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Ilgaz, C. & Avci, A. & Yakagül, C. (2016) -
A total of 45 lizards (Acanthodactylus harranensis [n = 15], Acanthodacthylus schreiberi [n = 9] and Mesalina brevirostris [n = 21]) were collected from South and Southeastern Regions of Turkey and examined for helminth fauna. Acanthodactylus harranensis harbored 1 species of Nematoda (Skrjabinodon sp.), 1 species of Cestoda (Oochoristica tuberculata) and 1 species of Acanthocephala (Centrorhynchus sp. [cystacanth]). Acanthodactylus schreiberi harbored unidentified cysticercoids. Mesalina brevirostris harbored 1 species of Nematoda (Spauligodon saxicolae). All lizards represents new host records for the helminths reported in this study.
Düsen, S. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Ilgaz, C. & Yaka, H. & Karadayi, F. (2013) -
In this investigation, a total of 44 racerunner lizard samples (Eremias pleskei, Eremias strauchi, and Eremias suphani) collected from eastern part of Turkey were examined for the first time for helminths. Eremias pleskei was harboured 1 species of acanthocepalan (in cystacanth stage), E. strauchi was harboured 2 species of nematodes, and E. suphani was harboured 3 species of nematodes and 1 species of cestode. E. strauchi represents a new host record for Spauligodon eremiasi, and Spauligodon saxicolae E. suphani represents a new host record for Spauligodon eremiasi, S. saxicolae, Physaloptera sp., and Oochoristica tuberculata, and also, E. pleskei represents a new host record for unidentified acanthocepalan (in cystacanth stage). Also, Turkey is a new locality record for Spauligodon eremiasi.
Dutta, S.K. & Nair, M.V. & Mohapatra, P.P. & Mahapatra, A.K. (2009) -
Duvdevani, I. (1971) -
Duvdevani, I. (1972) -
Duvdevani, I. & Borut, A. (1974) -
Oxygen consumption (OC) and total evaporative water loss (EWL) were measured simultaneously in males of four species of fringed-toed lizards, Acanthodactylus (Lacertidae), at ambient temperatures of 25 C to 45 C during the summer. In Israel these four species occupy habitats of different aridity. Lizards of the genus Acanthodactylus are not exceptional in their low OC or EWL when compared to other xeric lizards discussed in the present paper. However, a correlation was found in the four species between the aridity of the habitat and the OC, EWL and the Q10 values of OC and EWL at the lizards` range of activity temperatures. These findings support the concept that lowering of OC, EWL and their Q10 values are important in the adaptation of a lizard for life in the desert, even within a single genus.
Mean body temperature (MBT) at activity in outdoor cages was measured in small lizards of four species of Acanthodactylus (Lacertidae). All species were found to be thermophilic; the MBT of A. schreiberi is 40.6 C, A. boskianus 39.2 C, A. scutellatus-39.3 C, and that of A. pardalis-37.8 C. No significant differences in MBT were found between A. boskianus and A. scutellatus. Statistically significant to highly significant differences were found comparing other pairs of species. Significant differences in MBT between A. schreiberi and A. scutellatus may allow sympatry in some places. Heat absorption by lizards in outdoor cages was mainly from the substratum. Cloacal temperatures adjust to changes in substratum temperature within 5 minutes even when the lizards are exposed to direct sunlight. These lizards can be regarded as primarily thigmothermic species that occasionally bask.
Duvernoy, L.G. (1846) -
Dzhelali, P.A. & Doronin, I.V. & Lotiev, K.Y. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Mustafifaeva, G.A. & Bunyatova, S.N. (2021) -
Džukić, G. (1970) -
Džukić, G. (1972) -
Džukić, G. (1977) -
Džukić, G. (1989) -
Dzukic, G. & Diorovic, A. & Kalezic, M. & Aleksic, I. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (1997) -
Džukić, G. & Kalezić, M. (2004) -
Dzukic, G. & Kalezic, M.L. (2001) -
Džukić, G. & Pasuljević, G. (1979) -
E.R.W.D.A. Abu Dhabi (2005) -
Eberhardt, K. (1933) -
Eberhardt, K. (1934) -
Ebrahimipour, F.E. & Rastegar-Puyani, E. & Ghorbani, B. (2016) -
We have studied the terrestrial reptile fauna of the northwest Yazd province (Iran) and present here some of the characters that we examined for common species in the region. In total, 50 specimens from eight families (six lizard families and two snake families) were collected from the region. The collected lizards belonging to 13 species were Laudakia nupta, Phrynocephalus maculatus, Phrynocephalus scutellatus, and Trapelus agilis (Agamidae); Agamura persica and Bunopus crassicaudus (Gekkonidae), Teratoscincus bedriagai (Sphaerodactylidae); Eremias fasciata, Eremias persica, Mesalina watsonana, and Ophisops elegans (Lacertidae); Varanus griseus (Varanidae), and finally Uromastix asmussi belonging to the Uromastycidae. The two species of snakes were Spalerosophis diadema schiraziana (Colubridae) and Psammophis schokari (Lamprophiidae). Based on these results, Agamidae and Lacertidae are the families with highest number of genera and the genera Eremias and Phrynocephalus had the most species. Among the collected lizards, Trapelus agilis, Mesalina watsonana, and Bunopus crassicaudus were the most abundant species in the northwest Yazd province.
Ecay, T.W. & Stewart, J.R. & Wiessner, G. & Heulin, B. (2017) -
The chorioallantoic membrane resides adjacent to either the inner surface of the egg shell or uterine epithelium in oviparous and viviparous reptiles, respectively. Chorionic cells face the shell or uterine epithelium and transport calcium to underlying embryonic capillaries. Calcium transport activity of the chorioallantois increases in the final stages of development coincident with rapid embryonic growth and skeletal ossification. We excised embryos from viviparous Zootoca vivipara females at a stage prior to significant calcium accumulation and incubated them ex utero with and without calcium to test the hypothesis that chorioallantois calcium transport activity depends on developmental stage and not calcium availability. We measured calcium uptake by monitoring incubation media calcium content and chorioallantois expression of calbindin-D28K, a marker for transcellular calcium transport. The pattern of calcium flux to the media differed by incubation condition. Eggs in 0 mM calcium exhibited little variation in calcium gain or loss. For eggs in 2 mM calcium, calcium flux to the media was highly variable and was directed inward during the last 3 days of the experiment such that embryos gained calcium. Calbindin-D28K expression increased under both incubation conditions but was significantly higher in embryos incubated with 2 mM calcium. We conclude that embryos respond to calcium availability, yet significant calcium accumulation is developmental stage dependent. These observations suggest the chorioallantois exhibits a degree of functional plasticity that facilitates response to metabolic or environmental fluctuations.
Eckardt, V. & K. Richter (1997) -
Eckenbrecher, K. von (1930) -
Eckhardt, V. & Richter, K. (1997) -
Eckstein, H.-P. & Meinig, H. (1989) -
Eckstein, H.P. (1995) -
ECO--MED (2012) -
Ed-Sherif, G. & Saud Al-Thani, A. (2000) -
Edelman, M. & Frank, R. (2005) -
Herpetological and other interesting observations in Turkey -- The authors made some observations on reptiles, amphibians and arthropods during a trip in May 2004, near Kiris. Close to the coast there are a lot of developments aimed at tourism, like the construction of luxury hotels. However within walking-distance there are still more natural areas to be found, for instance mountainous areas with pine-forests and shrubs. Observations were made in the hills near Kiris, at de mountains near Kuzdere, at Olympos, Chimaera, Myra and Phaselis. Spring proved to be a good time to look for animals. In the annexed table can be seen which animals were observed at which location.
Edelman, M. & Frank, R. (2007) -
Amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates on Lesbos (Greece), April 28th–May 5th, 2006 -- The authors joined a herpetological journey to the Greek island of Lesbos close to the Turkish mainland. The group counted nine members and was travelling by van. The island of Lesbos is about 70 km long and about 45 km wide and is inhabited by about 80.000 people. The island is more or less mountainous (max. 970 m above sealevel). Pine, oak and scrub are common as well as more than 10 million olivetrees. Tourism, fishing, small scale farming and goat and sheepkeeping are the main source of income.The group visited a large part of the island on which wetlands, small rivers and small pools can be found. The searching was rather intensive and took about 10 hours a day. In total 19 species of reptiles and 5 species of amphibians are found. The search for invertebrates was limited to scorpions (only 1 species was found on Lesbos), some spiders (one of them the European ‘redback’) and centipedes. A list of observed species is found on page 10.
Edelstein-Keshet, L. (2017) -
Edgar, P. (1990) -
Edgar, P. (2010) -
Edgar, P. & Bird, D.R. (2005) -
Edgar, P. & Bird, D.R. (2006) -
Editorial (2024) -
Editorial (2025) -
Edsman, L. (1986) -
For territoriality to occur it is generally agreed that the territory must contain some limited and defensible resource which gives the owner a benefit that exceeds the cost of defence. Examples of such resources are food, shelter, oviposition sites, sleeping places and burrows to hide in. In the family Lacertidae, territorial behaviour is com- paratively rare /Stamps, 1977/ but it has been reported for Podarcis muralis /Weber, 1957; Boag, 1973/. This study focuses on possible limiting resources within the terri- tory and on the effect of territoriality on male reproductive success in wall lizards.
Edsman, L. (1990) -
Edsman, L. (2001) -
Edwards, G. (1751) -
Edwards, M. (1833) -
Edwards, S. (2013) -
The phenotype of an individual has often been used as the descriminating factor in distinguishing species. However, with the advent of more precise molecular techniques, the genotype of species is increasingly being used as the preferred method in taxonomic classifications. Many taxa have recently been demonstrated to be incongruent in terms of their genetic and morphological groupings, and this may due to the influence that the environment may have on the morphological and functional aspects of a species. Selective pressures often act upon the performance of a species within a particular habitat first, and then selection for the morphological characters that allow for optimal performance occurs. Should genetically disparate species inhabit a particular environment, convergence in morphologies and performance may evolve. Historically, lizard species descriptions were based primarily on external morphologies, and thus misclassfication of species may have occurred due to mistakenly grouping species with convergent morphologies together. In the current dissertation, the links between morphology, performance capacities, diet and behaviour is explored in comparison to the environment and genetic relationships of southern African lacertid lizards. The performance capacities and associated morphological traits were expected to be more closely linked with the environment, and not closely linked with genetic relationships. To investigate these expectations, a multidisciplinary approach was taken, and genetic, morphological and performance analyses were done and compared with dietary behavioural and environmental analyses. In the first chapter, the link between habitat openness and the lizard bauplans is investigated and the presence of convergent morphologies within this group of lizards is uncovered. These convergences are shown to have resulted in misclassification of two lacertid species, and taxonomic revisions within the family are discussed. The second chapter explores the link between performance and associated morphological traits, and the dietary composition of the members of the Nucras genus. The third chapter identifies the link between the predator escape strategies employed by the members of the Meroles genus, and their morphologies and performance capacities. The fourth chapter explores the intraspecific, inter-population differences in morphologies and investigates the link between the morphological groupings and the population genetic groupings within Pedioplanis lineoocellata. The final chapter identifies whether adaptation to a novel habitat can occur over a relatively short period of time, and the morphological traits, functional aspects, and population genetic structure is investigated in conjunction with environmental analyses of vegetation and substrate between the populations of Meroles knoxii. It was concluded that the morphological and functional aspects of the southern African lacertid lizards are more closely related to the environment, particularly the microhabitat structure, than to their genetic relationships, and that future work using this group of lizards should involve a multidisplinary approach as different selective pressures are playing a role in shaping the morphologies and performance capacities of these lizards, compared to those that are acting upon the genotypes of the lizards.
Edwards, S. & Branch, W.R. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Herrel, A. & Measey, G.J. & Tolley, K.A. (2013) -
Molecular phylogenetic analyses of southern African lacertid lizards (Eremiadini) using mitochondrial and nuclear markers revealed two examples of generic assignments incompatible with monophyletic clades. Australolacerta Arnold 1989, a genus endemic to South Africa and to which two isolated species have been referred, is paraphyletic at the generic level. In addition, the species Ichnotropis squamulosa Peters 1854 was found to be embedded within the genus Meroles. To resolve the paraphyly in Australolacerta we erect a new genus, Vhembelacerta Edwards, Branch, Herrel, Vanhooydonck, Measey, & Tolley, gen. nov., to accommodate Lacerta rupicola FitzSimons 1933. To maintain a monophyletic Ichnotropis Peters 1854, Ichnotropis squamulosa Peters 1854 is transferred to Meroles Gray 1838, now named Meroles squamulosus comb. nov. Where necessary the genera affected by these actions are re-characterized.
Edwards, S. & Herrel, A. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Measey, G.J. & Tolley, K.A. (2016) -
Survival, in part, depends on an individual`s ability to evade predators. In desert regions some lizard species have evolved head-first sand-diving strategies to escape predators. To facilitate this behaviour, a distinctive head morphology that facilitates sand-diving has evolved. This specialised head morphology may, however, come at a cost to other ecologically relevant functions, particularly bite force. Here, we investigated the relationship between morphology and function in a southern African lacertid lizard genus, Meroles, which consists of eight species that utilise different escape strategies, including sand-diving and running for cover. It was hypothesized that the specialised head morphology of diving species would negatively affect bite force capacity. We found that species from each escape strategy category differed significantly in head shape, but not bite force performance. A phylogenetic tree of the genus was constructed using two mitochondrial and two nuclear genes, and we conducted phylogenetic comparative analyses. One aspect of the head shape differed between the escape strategies once phylogeny was taken into account. We found that bite force may have co-evolved with head morphology, but that there was no trade-off between biting capacity and escape strategy in Meroles.
Edwards, S. & Tolley, K.A. (2010) -
Meroles knoxii is a medium-sized lacertid lizard endemic to the sandy regions of south-western South Africa. In the year 2000, three individuals were translocated a distance of ca. 18km, from a natural population in Phillipi to a dredge spoils site within Zandvlei Nature Reserve, Western Cape Province. Since the introduction, the Zandvlei population has grown in terms of numbers, however whether any changes, genetic or morphological, have been affected over the past decade is unknown. The ND4 mitochondrial gene was sequenced to investigate the genetic diversity within and between the populations, and a suite of morphometric characters were investigated using multivariate analyses to examine morphological differences. The source population had higher genetic diversity (5 haplotypes in 17 individuals) than the introduced population (2 haplotypes in 66 individuals) and an analysis of molecular variance indicated significant allele frequency differences between populations. Males were larger than females in both populations, but relative body dimensions (corrected for size) were not significantly different. Between populations, there were significant differences for limb dimensions: individuals from the Phillipi population tended to possess longer hindlimbs, shorter forelimbs and shorter digits, compared to Zandvlei. These differences may be an adaptation to differing substrates at the two sites, and/or perhaps due to a shift in foraging strategys. In the past decade, the morphology of the Zandvlei population appears to have diverged from the source population in response to the new habitat, whilst the genetic diversity of the population has remained low.
Edwards, S. & Tolley, K.A. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Measey, G.J. & Herrel, A. (2013) -
The functional characteristics of prey items (such as hardness and evasiveness) have been linked with cranial morphology and performance in vertebrates. In lizards particularly, species with more robust crania generally feed on harder prey items and possess a greater bite force, whereas those that prey on evasive prey typically have longer snouts. However, the link between dietary niche breadth, morphology, and performance has not been explicitly investigated in lizards. The southern African genus Nucras was used to investigate this link because the species exhibit differing niche breadth values and dietary compositions. A phylogeny for the genus was established using mitochondrial and nuclear markers, and morphological clusters were identified. Dietary data of five Nucras species, as reported previously, were used in correlation analyses between cranial shape (quantified using geometric morphometrics) and dietary niche breadth, and the proportion of hard prey taken and bite force capacity. Dietary niche breadth and the proportion of hard prey eaten were significantly related to cranial shape, although not once phylogeny was accounted for using a phylogenetic generalized least squares regression. The proportion of evasive prey eaten was a significant predictor of forelimb length when phylogeny was taken into account. We conclude that, in Nucras, the percentage of evasive prey taken co-evolves with forelimb morphology, and dietary niche breadth co-evolves with cranial shape. However, although head width is correlated with the proportion of hard prey eaten, this appears to be the result of shared ancestry rather than adaptive evolution.
Edwards, S. & Tolley, K.A. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Measey, G.J. & Herrel, A. (2016) -
Edwards, S. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Herrel, A. & Measey, G.J. & Tolley, K.A. (2012) -
Convergent evolution can explain similarity in morphology between species, due to selection on a fitness-enhancing phenotype in response to local environmental conditions. As selective pressures on body morphology may be strong, these have confounded our understanding of the evolutionary relationships between species. Within the speciose African radiation of lacertid lizards (Eremiadini), some species occupy a narrow habitat range (e.g. open habitat, cluttered habitat, strictly rupicolous, or strictly psammophilic), which may exert strong selective pressures on lizard body morphology. Here we show that the overall body plan is unrelated to shared ancestry in the African radiation of Eremiadini, but is instead coupled to habitat use. Comprehensive Bayesian and likelihood phylogenies using multiple representatives from all genera (2 nuclear, 2 mitochondrial markers) show that morphologically convergent species thought to represent sister taxa within the same genus are distantly related evolutionary lineages (Ichnotropis squamulosa and Ichnotropis spp.; Australolacerta rupicola and A. australis). Hierarchical clustering and multivariate analysis of morphological characters suggest that body, and head, width and height (stockiness), all of which are ecologically relevant with respect to movement through habitat, are similar between the genetically distant species. Our data show that convergence in morphology, due to adaptation to similar environments, has confounded the assignment of species leading to misidentification of the taxonomic position of I. squamulosa and the Australolacerta species.
Egerer, E. (2015) -
Die Mauereidechse besitzt innerhalb der Gattung Podarcis das größte und am weitesten nach Norden reichende Verbreitungsgebiet. Im Taygetos-Gebirge auf der Halbinsel Mani im Süden der Peloponnes (Griechenland) befindet sich das südlichste Vorkommen von Podarcis muralis überhaupt. Hier lebt sie vom Mittel- bis ins Hochgebirge in Höhen von mindestens 800-2.200 m ü. NN, bis weit über die Baumgrenze hinaus.
Egerer, E. & Schulte, U. (2011) -
Eggert, B. (1936) -
Eggert, C. & Perrault, A. (2017) -
Egretzberger, G. (2017) -
Eguía, S. et al. (2023) -
Insular biota represents a singular fraction of biodiversity in both evolutionary and ecological terms. However, it is especially sensitive to disturbance due to minimal interaction with competitor, predators and parasites, as well as low area and population size, which may lead to local extinction. Conserving such singularity involves monitoring organism quality and disturbance intensity to understand, anticipate and correct eventual declining trends. Reptiles are more likely to maintain populations in small islands than other vertebrates because of their low metabolic rates, resistance de dehydration and sedentariness. Some, particularly lizards, also display fast responses to insular conditions such as diet shifts. Timon nevadensis is a large lizard restricted to SE Iberia where it occupies a wide variety of open habitats, including some insular environments. The melanistic population of the Escombreras islet (off the coast of Cartagena, 4 ha) became threatened due to the accidental arrival of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), which altered the habitat structure and competed for the food. Annual campaigns of rabbit control are being conducted since 2018. Furthermore, in 2018 and 2019 Cartagena harbour authority promoted works to estimate the body condition, demography and population genetics parameters to assess the viability of the islet population. In 2018, four sampling sessions were carried out using 12 in vivo traps baited with fruit. A total of 62 captures were obtained with some individuals recaptured up to there times. Sexratio was 1.1 and only 1.6% of captures were juveniles. Abundance, estimated by the method of Schnabel, was 53 adults while, estimated by the method of Petersen, was 52. Samples from 25 lizards from Escobreras and 15 from the adjacent continent were genotyped with a battery of 16 microsatellites. The values of genetic diversity were by far lower (~50%) in the islet than in the continent, inbreeding was much higher (~300%) and effective population size was extremely small (Ne=41.7). Remarkably, relatedness between 6.1% of pairs in Escombreras attained > 0.5. Overall, these results indicate that the islet harbours a very small population with signs of inbreeding that may affect fitness. This, in combination with disturbance associated with rabbit introduction and the pensence of rats (Rattus norvegicus), makes it highly vulnerable extinction.
Ehnhardt, K. (1891) -
Ehrenburg, A. (2013) -
Ehrenburg, A. & Janssen, I. (2014) -
In de Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen worden sinds begin jaren 90 zandhagedissen gemonitord op vaste trajecten als onderdeel van het NEM Meetnet Reptielen (NEM = Netwerk Ecologische Monitoring). Na 20 jaar is het hoog tijd om eens de balans op te maken van al dit telwerk: wat zeggen de data ons, en hoe gaat het met de zandhagedissen in de Waterleidingduinen?
Ehrenhardt, H. (1936) -
Zwei flächengleiche Reizfiguren, Kreis und Kreuz, wurden, nacheinander geboten, auf dem Wege der Futterdressur von keiner Eidechse als Futteranzeiger sicher erlernt. Alle Sukzessivdressuren blieben erfolglos. 2. Dieselben zwei Figuren, nebeneinander geboten, werden schon ohne Dressur spontan voneinander unterschieden. Die natürliche Wahlneigung gilt dem Kreis. Es besteht die folgende spontane Rangordnung fallender Beliebtheit: Kreis, Quadrat, Dreieck, achtzackiger Stern, Kreuz. 3. Simultandressuren glückten immer nur im Sinne der Spontantendenz, konnten also stets nur die natürliche Neigung bekräftigen, die die weniger gegliederte Figur dem stärker gegliederten Partner vorzieht; das gilt selbst für Figurenpaare, die in der Beliebtheitsreihe nächstbenachbart sind. 4. Da im Spontanversuch alle einzeln dargebotenen Figuren gleich behandelt wurden, kann unter Mitberücksichtigung von 1., falls nicht doch noch einmal Sukzessivdressur mittels Strafreizen andere Ergebnisse zeitigen sollte, vorerst unter Vorbehalt geschlossen werden, daß Eidechsen Formbilder „absolut“ nicht in der Erinnerung festhalten können. Nur im Nebeneinander wählen sie, und zwar „relativ“. 5. Die Unterscheidungen waren unabhängig von der Raumlage der Figuren, von ihrer Größe nur oberhalb 1 qcm Fläche. 6. Die Formunterscheidung von Kreuz und Quadrat hält einer weitgehenden Angleichung der einen Figur an die andere stand. So kann ein einfacher Balken das Kreuz dem flächengleichen Quadrat gegenüber vertreten, wenn er gut doppelt so lang ist, wie die Seite des flächengleichen Quadrats. Das Quadrat, dem man an drei Ecken je ein Teilquadrat ausgeschnitten hat, so daß nur noch das vierte stehengebliebene es vom Kreuz unterscheidet, wird immer noch einwandfrei vor dem Kreuze bevorzugt; dabei beißt die Eidechse vorzugsweise in dies allein stehengebliebene Teilquadrat. 7. Am überlebenden Augapfel der Zauneidechse wurde der Abstand des Knotenpunkts von der Netzhaut mit 2,1 mm bestimmt. 8. Die histologische Netzhautuntersuchung bestätigte Cajals Angaben: Es fehlen Stäbchen; die Zapfen sind meist „gerade“, seltener „schräg“. Es gibt „versprengte Bipolaren“ sowie eine Area im Eidechsenauge. 9. Das Zahlenverhältnis Zapfen: versprengte Bipolaren: innere Körner: Ganglienzellen beträgt 3∶1∶16∶2. 10. Aus Schnittuntersuchungen unter Berücksichtigung der Schrumpfung und Beobachtungen an der überlebenden Netzhaut selbst ergaben sich übereinstimmend folgende Werte: die Zapfen sind am breitesten in der Peripherie (7,4 μ) und werden zur Area hin immer schmäler. Etwa 2 mm auswärts von der Area sind sie im Mittel 3,7 μ, in der Area selbst im Mittel 1,9 μ breit. 11. Der morphologische Sehwinkel beträgt demnach für Lacerta agilis peripher 12′ 7″, nahe der Area im Mittel 6′, in der Area 3′ 6″. 12. Der „physiologische Sehwinkel“ wurde bestimmt: a) aus der kritischen Entfernung für das Erkennen des Kreuzes zu 29′ 6″; b) für natürliche Beuteobjekte zu 14′ 38″, aus den optomotorischen Reaktionen bei Verwendung c) von Gleichzäunen (minimum separabile) zu 11′ 28″; d) von Weitzäunen (minimum visibile) zu 1′ 19″. 13. Das minimum visibile und separabile sind beide übereinstimmend abhängig von der Beleuchtungsstärke; an beiden gemessen nimmt die Sehschärfe mit fallender Beleuchtung ab. Die Kurven der Abhängigkeit der Sehschärfe von der Beleuchtung lassen den sonst für Wirbeltieraugen kennzeichnenden Knick vermissen, der dem Eintritt des Zapfenapparates bei Überschreiten der Farbschwelle entspricht. Dazu stimmt gut das morphologische Fehlen der Stäbchen in der Eidechsennetzhaut (vgl. 8.).
Ehrl, A. & Wolf, M. (1987) -
Eichenberger, P. (1981) -
The author describes how he discovered that his Lacerta viridis showed reproductive behavior one week after he increased the time of illumi- nation . His animals are kept in a simple terrarium with a 150 W spotlight as the only source of heat and light. Food consists of insects and worms, but mainly mealworms. Calcium is always present in the form of crumbled coral and eggshells. Vitamin AD3 is supplied daily in the drinking- water (10 drops/100 ml ). Succesive increases in daylength (50%) with 4 week intervals, resulted always in mating be- havior within a week. Thus it proved to be possib le for a Lacerta viridis fema le to develop two clutches of eggs at a time. Once laid, the eggs were dug up, washed and put in an incubator at 29° C. In a!>
Eichenberger, P. (1991) -
Tbe author describes his discovery that his Lacer- la viridis showed reproductive behaviour one week after he increased the time of ilIumination. His animals are kept in a simpte terrarium with a 150 W spotlight as the only heat source and ligh- ting. Food consists of insects and worms, but mainly mealworms. Calcium is always present in the form of crumbled coral and eggs heUs. Vita- min AD3 is supplied daily in the drinking water (10 drops/lOO mi). Succesive increases in daylength (50070) with four week intervals, always resulted in mating behavi- our within a week. It proved to be possible for a Lacerla viridis female to develop two clutches of eggs at a time. Once laid, the eggs were dug up by the author, washed and put in an incubator at 29° C. In about 50 days the young hatch, in L. viridis both sexes are equally represented, but Podarcis pityusensis shows a large surplus o f females at this incubation temperature. The author gives some remarks about biorhythms and hormonal changes and describes how he gives his lizards an eight week hibernation at 6° C du- ring his holiday. Six clutches a year are presumed possible per fe- male without damage 10 the lizards.
Eichert, C. & Lötters, S. & Veith, M. & Krehenwinkel, H. (2023) -
Eichwald, E. (1830) -
Eichwald, E. (1831) -
Eichwald, E. (1840) -
Eifler, D. & Eifler, M. (2014) -
Successful escape from predators may involve the use of multiple tactics. The wedge-snouted desert lizard (Meroles cuneirostris) flees from predators through a series of discrete moves with each move representing a specific manoeuvre type. By simulating the approach of a predator, we examined the role of sex and age (adult vs. juvenile) on the manoeuvre types used during escape, as well as the relationship between the number of moves needed to escape and the number of manoeuvre types employed. The eight defined manoeuvre types were used by all demographic groups, though there were differences among groups in the tendency to use certain manoeuvre types. In general, there was a strong difference in how adults and juveniles fled from predators. The number of manoeuvre types used by a lizard tended to increase with the number of moves required to escape and adults more readily added new manoeuvre types to an escape sequence. Demographic differences in escape behaviour might result from differing predation pressures incurred by juveniles and adults, and might also be related to the ontogeny of escape behaviour.
Eifler, D.A. & Baipidi, K. & Eifler, M.A. & Dittmer, D. & Nguluka, L. (2012) -
We experimentally determined that the lizard Pedioplanis namaquensis engages in area-restricted searching (=ARS, localized searching after encounters with food) while foraging and that prey characteristics influence ARS. Single prey items were introduced to free-ranging lizards, and their subsequent search effort was characterized using first passage times (=FPT, time required for an animal to cross a circle of a given radius). Three prey types were used: termites, flies, and rice (control). FPTs were longer following termite encounters than following fly or control encounters. Control treatments produced no change in FPT, while lizards searching for termites showed the greatest change. The use by Pedioplanis namaquensis of ARS was most pronounced for the typically aggregated prey type.
Eifler, D.A. & Eifler, M.A. & Liu, E.F. & Luyanda, B. & Utsumi, K.L. & Muradzikwa, T.E. & Kanyanga, M.K. & Buchana, C.A. (2020) -
The shovel-snouted sand lizard, Meroles anchietae, is a small lacertid that inhabits the aeolian sand dunes of the Namib Desert. We conducted focal observations to characterize the movement patterns of adult male, adult female, and juvenile M. anchietae in their preferred habitat: dune slip faces. Movement varied considerably among demographic classes. Both adult males and females made longer moves than juveniles, but males moved less frequently than females or juveniles. Males exhibited shorter path lengths and shorter net displacements than females or juveniles. Turn angle distributions varied among classes, with females differing from the other two classes. For all three classes, the distribution of movement directions differed from uniform, with lateral moves across the slip face being most common. Movement across the slip face reflects both the ease with which lizards can navigate the substrate and behavioral factors such as foraging strategy and social interactions. Distance and direction pairings differed both from random expectations and among the demographic classes. Movement characteristics indicate that demographic classes respond to the environment differently, even while using the same habitat.
Eikhorst, R. (1990) -
Eikhorst, R. & Eikhorst, W. (1982) -
In August 1979 seven specimens of Algyroides marchi had been caught. Since then the lizards are kept together in a 60-1-terrarium after a hibernation period of six weeks at a temperature of from 4 to 6°C. In spring 1980 the four males of the group behaved aggressively towards each other, but they demonstrated no apparent interest in the females. In 1981 the group was separated after a hibernation period of ten weeks. One couple and one male with two females had been isolated. Two weeks later, after the male`s shedding his skin, the first copulation occurred. The males bite the females in the flanks just before the hind leg. We could observe copulations lasting from 10 to 20 minutes on three subsequent days. 17 to 18 days after the last copulation the females laid usually three eggs. These had an average length of 11,2 mm with a diameter of 6,4 mm and an average weight of 0,28 g. We obtained two clutches from one female and three from two others within an interval of from 21 to 24 days. The eggs were often deposited not deeply enough in the wet sand of the terrarium. Egg development took 34 to 38 days at temperatures of from 26 to 30°C. The hatchlings had an average body length and weight of 2,4 cm and 0,35 g, respectively.
Eikhorst, W. & Eikhorst, R. & Nettmann, H-K. & Rykena, S. (1979) -
We have studied eight specimens of Algyroides marchi which were caught in August 1979. As a result, former data concerning the maximal body length and sexual dimorph- ism must be revised. Because one hatchling appeared among the specimens it is reasonable to postulate that the first egg-laying period occurs in May. Therefore, the egg-laying period in July, which PALACIOS & al. (1974) report, ought to be the second or even the third such period in the year. The lizards are very sociable in the terrarium. A remark- able behaviour is their nodding which we suppose to be an apomorphic form of the `Treteln` - connected head and arm movements - (KRAMER 1937) of other lacertids.
Eimer, T. (1872) -
Eimer, T. (1874) -
Eimer, T. (1875) -
Eimer, T. (1877) -
Eimer, T. (1881) -
Eimer, T. (1882) -
Eiselt, J. (1965) -
Eiselt, J. (1968) -
Eiselt, J. (1969) -
Ein Bericht über die Neuaufsammlung der „farsischen Zagroseidechse`, Lacerta princeps princeps BLANFOBD 1874, von der während der nahezu 100 Jahre, die seit ihrer Erstbeschreibung verstrichen sind, erst 4 Exemplare bekannt geworden waren. Ihre Lebendfärbung und ihre Jugendtracht werden erstmalig beschrieben und ebenso wie ihre Beschuppung und ihr Schädelbau, mit der durchaus eigenständigen „kurdischen Zagroseidechse`, Lacerta princeps kurdistanica SUCHOV 1936 verglichen.
Eiselt, J. (1970) -
Als erste Belege für das Vorkommen in der Türkei werden eingehend besprochen: Lacerta praticola pontica, Varanus griseus griseus, Spalerosophis diadema cliffordi, Eirenis punctatolineatus kumerloevei ssp. nov., Eirenis persicus und Eirenis rothii. Darüber hinaus werden noch Funde folgender Schlangen erwähnt: Coluber jugularis jugularis, C. jugularis schmidti, Eirenis punctatolineatus punctatolineatus, Eirenis modestus modestus, Rhynchocalamus satunini.
Eiselt, J. (1979) -
A revisionary study of 366 specimens of Lacerta cappadodca WERNER, from Turkey, Iraq, and Iranhas revealed the existence of 5 subspecies: L. c. cappadodca WERNER (Kilikian Taurus to west of Malatya) ; L. c. wolteri (BIRD, 1936) (Amanus-Mountains to the Euphrates) ; L. c. muhtari ssp. nov. (east of Malatya and the Euphrates to the south of Lake Van, Turkey and to Sersang, Northeastern Iraq); L. c. schmidtlerorum ssp. nov. (around Diyarbakir and Viransehir); L. c. urmiana (LANTZ & STJCHOW, 1934) (South- eastern Turkey, Northeastern Iraq, Northwestern Iran).
Eiselt, J. (1995) -
A new species of Archaeolacerta from northeastern Iran is described in comparison with other archaeolacertids - chlorogaster and defilippi from Iran, as well as raddei and valentini from Transcaucasia.
Eiselt, J. & Darevsky, I.S. (1991) -
Conventional and multivariate taxonomic methods allow the description of a new subspecies of Lacerta rudis BEDRIAGA from the Central Caucasus: L. rudis chechenica ssp. n. - In this connection the intraspecific relations between the northeastern groupings of Lacerta rudis are demonstrated. - The data-analyses used are described.
Eiselt, J. & Darevsky, I.S. & Schmidtler, J.F. (1992) -
Series of newly collected specimens of Lacerta valentini BOETTGER in Eastern Turkey were closely investigated in order to demarcate the areas of the subspecies L. v. valentini and L. v. lantzicyreni. Intermediary populations were found to exist between them, one was described as a new subspecies, Lacerta valentini spitzenbergerae, living in the Cilo-Dag Mountains, Vilayet Hakkâri, Turk
Eiselt, J. & Pretzmann, G. (1966) -
Eiselt, J. & Schmidtler, F.J. (1986) -
Eiselt, J. & Schmidtler, J.F. & Darevsky, I.S. (1993) -
A new subspecies of Lacerta raddei BOETTGER, 1892 is described. Terra typica: castle mountain of Van City, eastern Turkey;. Distribution: easternmost Turkey. Intermediary populations towards L. raddei raddei in northwesternmost Iran are still to be defined.
Eisentraut, M. (1928) -
Eisentraut, M. (1929) -
Eisentraut, M. (1930) -
Eisentraut, M. (1949) -
Eisentraut, M. (1950) -
Eisentraut, M. (1954) -
Eisentraut, M. (1963) -
Eizaguirre, C. & Laloi, D. & Massot, M. & Richard, M. & Federici, P. & Clobert, J. (2007) -
Species in which males do not contribute to reproduction beyond the provision of sperm offer good opportunities to study the potential genetic benefits that females can obtain from polyandry. Here, we report the results of a study examining the relationships between polyandry and components of female fitness in the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara).We found that polyandrous females produce larger clutches than monandrous females. Polyandrous females also lose fewer offspring during the later stages of gestation and at birth, but we did not find any relationship between polyandry and physical characteristics of viable neonates. Our results were consistent with the predictions of the intrinsic male quality hypothesis, while inbreeding avoidance and genetic incompatibility avoidance might also explain some part of the variation observed in clutch size. Moreover, the benefits of polyandry appeared to depend on female characteristics, as revealed by an interaction between reproductive strategy and female length on reproductive success. Thus, all females did not benefit equally from mating with multiple males, which could explain why polyandry and monandry coexist.
Ekner-Grzyb, A. (2013) -
The aim of the study was to investigate relation between predators and prey, as well as parasites (pathogens) and hosts. As a result of the research it was determined the role of the lizards (Zootoca vivipara i Lacerta agilis) in transmission of tick-borne pathogens (Anaplasmataceae oraz Borrelia burgdorferi s.l.). Until recently these microorganisms were not found in the reptile tissues. In presented study it was described a co-infection between both analized bacteria in ticks (Ixodes ricinus), parasiting on L. agilis. It was demonstrated that adult males of common lizards were more vulnerably to predation risk, caused by great grey shrikes (Lanius excubitor), than females and the rest of the age classes of lizards. Moreover, the birds might affects demographic structure of lizard`s population. Thanks to correlation, obtained during a comparison of individual morphological traits of the lizards, it becomes possible to estimate a mass of hunted prey on the basis of measurements of particular parts of incomplete or dried lizard`s body, found in pellets or larder. It was turned out that predator pressure, estimated on the basis of autotomy experienced have significant impact on speed mean of sand lizard. However, parasites load did not influence on locomotor performance of the study reptiles. Moreover, presented study indicated that a difference in arrangement of postnasalia and frenale scales are frequently deviated from the typical arrangement and can not be taken into acount as a taxonomical trait, during determination of both analysed lizards.
Ekner-Grzyb, A. & Sajkowska, Z. & Dudek, K. & Gawalek, M. & Skórcka, P. & Tryjanowski, P. (2013) -
Locomotor performance affects foraging efficiency, predator avoidance and consequently fitness. Agility and speed determine the animal`s social status and reflect its condition. In this study, we test how predatory pressure and parasite load influences locomotor performance of wild specimens of the sand lizard Lacerta agilis. Animals were chased on a 2-metre racetrack. Lizards with autotomy ran significantly faster than lizards with an intact tail, but there was no significant difference in running speed between individuals with fresh caudal autotomy and regenerated tails. Parasite presence and load, age and sex had no significant effect on speed. Our results indicate that autotomy either alters locomotory behaviour or that individuals with autotomised tails were those that previously survived contact with predators, and therefore represented a subgroup of the fastest individuals. Therefore, in general, predatory pressure but not parasites affected locomotor performance in lizards.
Ekner, A. & Dudek, K. & Sajkowska, Z. & Majláthová, V. & Majláth, I. & Tryjanowski, P. (2011) -
Background: Anaplasmataceae and Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. are important tick-borne bacteria maintained in nature by transmission between ticks and vertebrate hosts. However, the potential role of lizards as hosts has not been sufficiently studied. Results: The current study showed that 23 of 171 examined sand lizards Lacerta agilis were PCR positive for Anaplasmataceae. The nucleotide sequences of the several selected PCR products showed 100% homology with Anaplasma spp. found in Ixodes ricinus collected in Tunisia and Morocco (AY672415 - AY672420). 1.2% of lizard collar scale samples were PCR positive for B. lusitaniae. In addition, 12 of 290 examined I. ricinus were PCR positive for B. burgdorferi s.l. and 82 were PCR positive for Anaplasmatacea. The number of ticks per lizard and the number of ticks PCR positive for both microorganisms per lizard were strongly correlated. Moreover, we found a significant correlation between numbers of ticks infected with Anaplasmataceae and with B. burgdorferi s.l. living on the same lizard. However, there was no significant correlation between detection of both bacteria in the same tick. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of Anaplasmataceae DNA and additionally the second report of B. burgdorferi s.l DNA detection in the sand lizard. Keywords: Tick-borne pathogens, Reptiles, Mixed infection, Lacertidae, Co-occurence
Ekner, A. & Majláth, I. & Majláthová, V. & Hromada, M. & Bona, M. & Antczak, M. & Bogaczyk, M. & Tryjanowski, P. (2008) -
The study was carried out in extensive farmland area near the town of Odolanów, Poland. During two breeding seasons (April-May, 2006-2007) lizards were counted on transect routes and captured by hand or by noosing. In total, 123 specimens of L. agilis and 153 specimens of Z. vivipara were captured. The proportion of males to females wasn.t differed from the theoretical 1:1 ratio. Almost half of between all morphological traits, i.e. males were shorter, lighter, but had a bigger head. In common lizards significant sex specific differences were detected only in body length, i.e. females were longer. All of the morphological traits were highly inter-correlated.
Ekner, A. & Sajkowska, Z. & Dudek, K. & Tryjanowski, P. (2011) -
The identification of previously captured individuals is essential for a wide variety of ecological and behavioural studies. A lot of different methods are used for marking lizards, however they have many drawbacks. In presented study we used heat-branding method, using pen-like medical cautery units, previously employed to successfully mark other lizard species and snakes. The technique is permanent, readable and harmless for lizards, as well quick and easy. In 2009 we marked 111 individuals of sand lizard, Lacerta agilis. Next year we caught 88 lizards, 17 of them were re-captured. Among these re-captured lizards, five were caught after 26.8 (± 16.3) days (means in the same year) and 12 after 308.8 (± 64.3) days (means in the next year). Recaptured individuals were still unambiguously recognisable.
Eksilmez, H. & Altunisik, A. (2020) -
The Artvin Lizard, Darevskia derjugini (Nikolsky, 1898), is distributed in the Black Sea coastal region of Turkey (Provinces of Trabzon, Rize and Artvin), Georgia, Azerbaijan and Russia.The vertical distribution of the species is up to 1700 m a.s.l. It is classified as “near threatened” in the IUCN red List of Threatened species. In this study, we investigated age structure, age at sexual maturity and lifespan (as demographic life-history traits) as well as body size of a Darevskia derjugini population (n=30, 13 males, 17 females) from Murgul, Artvin, using skeletochronology. Our findings indicated that age upon attaining sexual maturity was three years for both sexes in this high-altitude population. The maximum longevity was seven years. There was no statistically significant difference between male and female individuals in terms of average age. Female individuals were significantly larger than male individuals. As reported for many lizards, we found a significant positive relationship between age and body size within each sex of Artvin lizard. The information given about some life history characteristics of a near-threatened species in this study may contribute to effective conservation management in the future.
El Bakry, A.M. (2014) -
Cornea is the first optical element in the path of light entering the eye, playing a role in image formation and protection of the eye. The smooth optical surface of the cornea is maintained by a tear film, which adheres to a variety of microprojections. The present study aimed to examine and compare the main features of the corneal epithelial surface of a variety of vertebrate species (Rana ridibunda, Acanthodactylus boskianus, Falco tinnunculus and Gerbillus gerbillus) inhabiting different environments, by scanning electron microscopy. The mean epithelial cell densities of the present species were 3817±423, 5345±1247, 6234±2136 and 1789±216 cells/ mm², respectively. The corneal epithelium of all studied species showed similarity in that the apical cell surfaces possess regular polygonal cells and a variety of microprocesses as microholes, microplicae and microridges. Microvilli are also described. According to the densities of these microprocesses, three polymorphic cell types (light, medium and dark) appeared in R. ridibunda, A. boskianus and F. tinnunculus. However, in G. gerbillus, two cell types only were observed. In conclusion, variation in the structure of the corneal epithelial cells appears to be related to the living environment of each species, such as aerial, terrestrial and aquatic ones, in addition to some phylogenetic trends.
El Said, N. & El Bakary, R. (2007) -
El-Bakary, N.E.R. & Abd-Allah, G.A. & Amer, S.A. & Deef, L.E. (2008) -
In the present work, the structure of the tongue has been described in the context of its functional phylogenetic significance in 7 species of lizards inhabiting Damietta; Acanthodactylus boskianus (Bosc`s lizard), Acanthodactylus scutellatus (Nidua lizard), Mabuya quinquetaeniata (Bean skink), Mabuya vittata (Banded skink), Chalcides ocellatus (Ocellated skink), Hemidactylus turcicus (Warty gecko) and Chamaeleo africanus (African chameleon). There is similarity in gross appearance of the tongue between species. The tongue is bifurcated. Based on regional differences in surface morphology, the dorsum of the tongue can be divided into 3 regions. Histological examination revealed that in Acanthodactylus boskianus and Acanthodactylus scutellatus the tongue structure is nearly the same. In addition, there is a great similarity in tongue structure between Mabuya quinquetaeniata and Mabuya vittata. On the other hand, tongue musculature is the same in all studied species in chameleon which belong to another sister group.
El-Masry & Hussein, H.K. (2001) -
Field and laboratory studies of thermal relations, metabolism and winter dormancy were conducted on the sand lizard, Acanthodactylus boskianus. During daily activity times the lizards were slightly, but significantly warmer than their environment. The standard metabolic rate was exponentially related to temperature. The maximum Q10 (3.86) occurred between 25 and 30°C and minimum one (1.56) between 35 and 40°C. There was no evidence of dormancy or reduced metabolism due to reduced temperature (to 15°C) in summer. Oxygen consumption was essentially the same in the field lizards and in captive ones held either in outdoor cages or at 15°C in summer, when measured at 15°C or 35°C, but consumption was significantly higher in both groups than in field animals when measured at 25deg;C. Lizards become dormant when exposed continuously to short photoperiods in winter. This lizard could not be maintained in an active condition through winter under laboratory conditions used successfully to keep other local lizards active. Despite the length of photoperiods used (8 h/day or 16 h/day), both groups showed a significantly reduced metabolic rate at 15°C comparable to those measured at 25°C or above. Therefore, dormancy and metabolic rate are controlled independently. The winter dormancy is controlled by reduced photoperiod, but lower metabolic rate is controlled by reduced temperature.
El-Tóubi, M.R. & M.A. Soliman (1967) -
Elbing, K. (1992) -
Elbing, K. (1993) -
The incubation of eggs of Lacerta agilis LrNNAEUS, 1758 was studied on the island of Wangerooge (North Sea). Two clutches deposited end of June and early July in 8 and 7.5 cm depth hatched after 56 and 55 days respectively, the respective temperature sums were 1170 and 1176°C. Additional temperature measurements were taken in different soils and depths and evaluated under inclusion of !iterature records. Some of the results are: Under 1991 conditions, the optimal clutch depth would have been below 12 cm. The required temperature sum would have been reached even by clutches deposited in late July but hatchlings might have faced a shortage of warm days prior to hibernation. Under temperature aspects, the deposition under an open sandy place is more suitable than under mosses. Moss cover however offers better moisture conditions.
Elbing, K. (1995) -
Elbing, K. (1996) -
Elbing, K. (1997) -
Im Rahmen einer Freilandstudie zur Populationsökologie niedersächsischer Zauneidechsen (Lacerta agilis) wurden die Überschneidungen individueller Aktivitätsräume analysiert. Die saisonalen Aktivitätsräume weisen insbesondere in zentralen Habitatteilen eine hohe Überschneidungszahl sowie einen großen Überschneidungsgrad auf. Die innerhalb eines zweiwöchigen Intervalls aktuell genutzten Aktivitätsbereiche variieren im Jahresverlauf erheblich, überschneiden sich aber ebenfalls stark. Die stärksten Überschneidungen von individuelle Aktivitätsbereichen wurden zum Zeitpunkt größter Fortpflanzungsaktivitäten in einem zentralen Habitatbereich festgestellt. Innerhalb der sich überschneidenden Aktivitätsbereiche zeigen die Zauneidechsen ein recht moderates Verhalten, welches durch geringe Aggressionen und gegenseitige Tolerierung geprägt ist.
Activity patterns of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) were examined in a field study in northwest Germany. The most important abiotic factor was found to be insolation. Temperature and wind velocity had minor effects. Daily activity patterns and their dependence from the season are discussed.
Elbing, K. (1998) -
Elbing, K. (1999) -
Elbing, K. (2000) -
The habitat of one population of green lizards (Lacerta viridis) in Brandenburg (northeastern Germany) was partly damaged by fire in 1993. Recolonisation of the burnt area between 1994 and 1998 is documented in this paper. Recolonisation took place only through young animals, which are immigrating from adjacent undamaged areas. Recolonisation is delayed if there is a lack of those young animals due to hatching failure. Only few youngs hatched within the burnt area before the fourth year after fire (1997). From 1997 onwards, population density and adult sex ratio corresponded with the figures known from other parts of that particular habitat. The mean age of the animals in the damaged area is significantly lower than in other parts of the habitat. As the reproductive investment is comparatively low in younger animals, the importance of undamaged neighbouring areas will remain for considerable time, exceeding five years after fire (1998).
Incubation temperatures are influencing lenght of incubation as well as `quality` of the emerging hatchling. Body length, weight and status were investigated in an field population of Lacerta viridis in Brandenburg (Northeastern Germany). Hatchlings were found to be smaller, lighter, paler and less agile after cold summers than after warm summers.
Elbing, K. (2001) -
Growth patterns were studied in a 5-year study in three relict populations ofLacerta viridis in north-eastern Germany. Measured snout-vent lengths were adjusted to the logistic growth curve step by step for each age class separately. Growth curves were computed for each population, discriminating between both sexes. Significant increments were found for years 1-3 in popula- tion 1, for years 1-4 in population 3 but only for years 1-2 in population 2. The exact date of maximum growth is shifting towards the end of the season in higher ages. Significant differ- ences were only found concerning individuals from population 1 in their first activity season. These are reaching maximum growth speed about two weeks later than individuals from other populations. Only in population 2 and only in the first year of activity a higher growth of females had to be considered as significant. Differences of growth patterns in and between pop- ulations are the result of adaptation to varying ecological conditions. In this context food sup- ply, microclimate, length of activity season, parasite load, injuries and social status of the indi- vidual have to be mentioned. As of weather conditions and habitat structure many of the men- tioned factors show high variation. Additionally interpretation of SVL data becomes very prob- lematic, if no basic knowledge of life history parameters exists. Therefore final statements about the nature of influencing factors and their interference require more common garden, replacement and/or breeding experiments. The differences should make every field herpetologists suspicious in assigning individualsto a certain age class by their SVL only.
Elbing, K. (2002) -
Elbing, K. & Günther, R. & Rahmel, U. (1996) -
Elbing, K. & Nettmann, H.-K. & Rykena, S. (1997) -
Elbing, K. & Nettmann, H.K. (2018) -
Elbing, K. & Rykena, S. (1996) -
A new method to recognize individual lizards, based on the analysis of head shield pattern variation, is described. The method allows to discriminate more than 100 individual green lizards in captive breeding experiments and is sucessful also in field studies. It enables to recognize an individual over the whole of its lifespan from hatchling onwards.
Elkin, J. (1991) -
Ellwanger, G. (2004) -
Elmberg, J. (2023) -
North Sweden (‘Norrland’ in Swedish) covers 243 000 km2 and lies mainly in the boreal biome. The herpetofauna comprises five amphibian and four reptile species: Lissotriton vulgaris, Triturus cristatus, Bufo bufo, Rana temporaria, Rana arvalis, Zootoca vivipara, Anguis fragilis, Natrix natrix, and Vipera berus. Successful conservation and management of amphibians and reptiles depend on accurate information about distribution, habitat affinities, and abundance. Such knowledge is also essential as a benchmark to assess changes in distribution and abundance that may come about as a result of climate change and human habitat alteration. This paper aims to present accurate distribution maps, describe habitat affinities, and provide abundance estimates for the herpetofauna of North Sweden for the period 1970–2022. Distribution data are presented by traditional faunistic provinces, as well as by biotic regions and alpine life zones. Separate sections address post-glacial colonization and a herpetological perspective on anthropogenic changes in relation to species´ present status. Bufo bufo, Rana temporaria, Rana arvalis, Zootoca vivipara, and Vipera berus are widely distributed throughout the boreal sub-regions. Rana temporaria, Zootoca vivipara, and Vipera berus also extend into the alpine region. Triturus cristatus, Anguis fragilis, and Natrix natrix occur mainly in the coastal parts of the Southern Boreal region. There are no signs of recent changes in distribution range, but Lissotriton vulgaris, Triturus cristatus, and Rana arvalis have been largely overlooked in the past and have a much wider occurrence than previously recognized. Most species are found in habitats usually not described in all-European field guides. Nearly all anurans hibernate in water. Abundance estimates suggest that some species are more common in the boreal than thought, supporting the notion that a large share of their total European population occurs there. Although local extinctions and declines are known, there are no signs of widespread population decline for any species during the study period.
Elvers, I. (1977) -
The Madeiran lizard Lacerta muralis dugesii was observed visiting flowers of the introduced species Aloe arborescens and of the indigenous Echium nervosum; a small lizard could put its head into the flower, presumably to drink nectar. Both plants were growing near walls inhabited by lizards. It is suggested that this lizard-flower inter-relationship may be a possible model of a palaeo-ecological connection between pre-angiosperms and reptilian pre-birds.
Elvers, I. (1978) -
Elvira, B. & Palacios, F. (1981) -
Elvira, B. & Vigal, C.R. (1982) -
Elvira, B. & Vigal, C.R. (1985) -
This study deals with several features of the reproductive biology of Lacerta monticola cyreni. It was carried out in a lizard population in the Sierra de Guadarrama (Central Spain). Owing to the hard weather conditions the lizards have a very short active season (nearly six months). The annual gonadal cycle of both sexes shows an unimodal distribution which demonstrates the existence of only one mating and only one clutch per year. Mating occurs in May-June. Females lay a clutch of 4 to 9 eggs, usually during July. Finally, hatching takes place in September, one month before the beginning of hibernation in October.
Elzen, P. van den (1983) -
Endler, F.G. & Scholz, F. (1809) -
Endler, F.G. & Scholz, F. (1821) -
Engel, E. & Gassert, F. & Proess, R. (2007) -
The present distribution atlas summarizes the knowledge of the reptile fauna in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The actual (after 2000) and historical distribution of the 6 species are presented in distribution maps (using squares of 5 x 5 km) and are discussed. Each species is described and information about its ecological requirements and its biology are given. Additionally, we mention the main threats to the species, give recommendations regarding their conservation an present a new Red List of the Reptile Fauna of Luxembourg
Engelmann, K. (1960) -
Engelmann, W.-E. (1972) -
Engelmann, W.-E. (1982) -
The summary deals with the possibilities and limitations of serological and immunological investigations of relationships achieved by photometric destination of the degree of antigen-antibody reaction, by immunelectrophoresis and by passive hemagglutination inhibition tests in the taxonomy of lacertids . With the help of immunelectrophoretic investigations and the passive hemagglutination inhibition test to heterolog serums of lizards such results are shown and interpreted.
Engelmann, W.-E. & Kabisch, K. (1973) -
Serum proteins of Lacerta v. viridis, L. v. meridionalis, L. trilineata, L. agilis, L. vivipara, L. taurica, L. muralis, Ophisaurus apodus, and Anguis fragilis were separated by polyacrylamidae disc electrophoresis. Among the lacertids, Lacerta viridis and Lacerta trilineata show greater similarities. Ophisaurus apodus and Anguis fragilis are characterized by praealbumins.
Engelmann, W.-E. & Schäffner, H. (1981) -
Engelmann, W.E. & Fritzsche, J. & Günther, R. & Obst, F.J. (1986) -
Engelstoft, C. & Robinson, J. & Fraser, D. & Hanke, G. (2020) -
The Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) has existed in southwestern British Columbia since 1967, but expanded its range rapidly in the last decade. In 2006, P. muralis was thought restricted to 4 populations on southeastern Vancouver Island: 3 on the Saanich Peninsula and 1 in the Triangle Mountain area. However, increased reporting and exploration led to the recognition that these populations have merged. Further, P. muralis have also appeared along the eastern side of Vancouver Island north to Campbell River; and on Denman Island. In 2015, P. muralis was also reported from two BC mainland locations: Osoyoos in the southern Okanagan, and the city of Vancouver. Introduced lacertid populations are reported to spread from their points of origin at a relatively slow rate (∼1 km every 10 y), so given that P. muralis has been found at least 200 km north, 300 km west, and from Vancouver Island to Denman Island and the British Columbia mainland over the last 52 y, human-assisted dispersal likely contributed to its apparently rapid radial expansion in southwestern BC. As they expand into rural and protected areas on Vancouver Island, P. muralis may have increasing opportunities to interact with the native Northern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria coerulea). Where E. coerulea and P. muralis coexist on southern Vancouver Island, the latter seems more abundant, which raises concern and warrants study.
Engleder, A. & Haring, E. & Kirchhof, S. & Mayer, W. (2013) -
Eremiadinae, one of three subfamilies of Lacertidae, are distributed throughout Asia and Africa. Previous phylogenetic studies suggested that one of the main groups of Eremiadinae (the Ethiopian clade) consist of two clades with predominately East-African and South-African distribution. Yet, especially the latter one, which includes the genera Pedioplanis, Meroles, Ichnotropis, Tropidosaura and Australolacerta, was not well supported in the molecular phylogenetic analysis. In this study, we analysed the phylogenetic relationships among the genera of the ‘South African clade’ to assess whether this group actually forms a highly supported clade and to address questions concerning the monophyly of the genera. We sequenced sections of the widely used mitochondrial genes coding for 16S rRNA, 12S rRNA and cytochrome b (altogether 2045 bp) as well as the nuclear genes c-mos, RAG-1, PRLR, KIF24, EXPH5 and RAG-2 (altogether 4473 bp). The combined data set increased the support values for several nodes considerably. Yet, the relationships among five major lineages within the ‘South African clade’ are not clearly resolved even with this large data set. We interpret this as a ‘hard polytomy’ due to fast radiation within the South African lacertids. The combined tree based on nine marker genes provides strong support for the ‘South African Clade’ and its sister group relationship with the ‘East African Clade’. Our results confirm the genus Tropidosaura as a monophylum, while Ichnotropis is paraphyletic in our trees: Ichnotropis squamulosa appears more closely related to Meroles than to Ichnotropis capensis. Furthermore, the monophyly of Meroles is questionable as well. Based on our results, I. squamulosa should be transferred from Ichnotropis into the genus Meroles. Also, the two species of Australolacerta (A. australis and A. rupicola) are very distantly related and the genus is perhaps paraphyletic, too. Finally we propose a phylogeographical scenario in the context of palaeoclimatic data and compare it with a previously postulated hypothesis.
Engler, J.O. (2015) -
Enoksen, C.A. (2013) -
Ecological network analysis can be used to study several ecological aspects such as food web structure, mutualistic plant-pollinator interaction and the transmission of infectious diseases. However, many networks are species based, which means that individuals in the network are considered to be identical. Several studies have shown that this might be wrong. Large individual variation in a population has been observed for many species and may be due to differences between each individual in sex, age, behavior, and size. This individual variation may affect the dynamic of a population both ecologically and evolutionarily and therefore downscaling from species level to individual level may be important when studying ecological aspects for an ecological community. In this study, the diet of the endemic lizard of the Balearic Islands, Podarlis lilfordi, was examined in an individual-based network analysis. This was carried out on two islets, Na Moltona and Na Guardis, south of Mallorca, for two years (two spring seasons, one summer season and two autumn seasons). The population’s niche was expected to be determined by one of two mechanisms: that individuals would be as generalized as the population or that individuals would be more specialized than the population. Networks were made for all seasons, male individuals, female individuals, and juvenile individuals on both islets. The results showed that individuals on both islets were more specialized than their population. The all season network on Na Moltona was both nested and showed modularity. Individual body size varied much and may have been the driver of the nested pattern seen in the network. The all–season network on Na Guardis was non-nested, but showed modularity. The individual body size did not vary that much on this islet, with may be explained by the non-nested pattern of the network, due to the different monopolizing of food resources and then reduced intraspecific competition. The modularity seen on both islets emphasize the individual niche specialization, but the different modules could not be explained by grouping of individuals at same sex, age or size. Instead, the grouping seemed to be made up by a few males, some females and some juveniles, maybe genetically close related individuals, i.e. family groups restricted in space. In conclusion, the downscaling from species level to individual level when analyzing ecological aspects such as population niche width has been shown to be important. Individuals in a population differ and this individual specialization can have strong effects on the dynamics in their interacting networks.
Enriquez-Urzelai, U. & Martinez-Freiria, F. & Freitas, I. & Perera, A. & Martinez-Solano, I. & Salvi, D. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2019) -
The balance between speciation and extinction (i.e. diversification), together with dispersal, dictate biodiversity patterns, which vary enormously among regions and taxa. This implies that diversification depends both on ‘intrinsic’ organismal traits and ‘extrinsic’ factors associated to specific regions. Area such as the Mediterranean Basin which underwent intense paleogeographic changes are known to have favored isolation and promoted diversification. Non-exclusively, the acquisition of key phenotypic traits (e.g. morphological innovations or shifts in climatic tolerances to exploit new niches) could drive diversification. The contribution of intrinsic traits and extrinsic factors to diversification, however, remains elusive. Here we test the contribution of paleogeography and phenotypic evolution in the diversification of green lizards (Timon and Lacerta). We reconstructed a complete dated phylogeny including all known lineages within species. Further, we characterized each lineage using 1) ecologically relevant morphological traits from museum specimens and 2) climatic niche characteristics (thermal and hydric conditions across each lineage’s distribution). Diversification analyses revealed that green lizards diversified steadily, without major rate shifts, and suggested that (paleo)geography played a significant role in this process. Body and relative head size, as well as climatic niche characteristics, exhibited significant phylogenetic signal pointing to higher dissimilarity among close relatives than expected under random processes. In contrast, thermal niche characteristics were more similar among clos relatives than expected by chance. However, trait-dependent diversification analyses did not lend support to any influence of these variables on diversification rates. Our results suggest that the geographic history of the Mediterranean Basin governed the diversification of green lizards.
Enriquez-Urzelai, U. & Martinez-Freiria, F. & Freitas, I. & Perera, A. & Martinez-Solano, I. & Salvi, D. & Velo-Anton, G. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2022) -
Aim: The contributions of historical biogeography, morphology and climatic niche evolution in shaping species diversification have been typically examined separately. To fill this gap, we assessed the relative role of geologic history, environment and phenotypic trait evolution in lineage diversification of green lizards in the Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot. Location: Eurasia and North Africa. Taxon: Green lizards (genera Timon and Lacerta). Methods: For all green lizard lineages, we characterized distributional ranges and external morphological traits across discrete biogeographical areas, occupied macro-habitats and climatic niches using environmental variables that represent average and extreme climatic conditions. To assess the contribution of geographical factors in shaping diversity patterns, we evaluated the fit of 24 biogeographical models. We used BAMM and estimated phylogenetic signal to assess the rates of lineage diversification and of phenotypic and climatic niche evolution, and to determine whether these processes occurred steadily or at specific time periods as a response to palaeogeological or palaeoclimatic events. Finally, we tested for associations between phenotypic traits and lineage diversification using trait-dependent diversification analyses (QuaSSE, ES-sim and STRAPP). Results: Biogeographical analyses favoured a dispersal–vicariance model explaining speciation patterns in green lizards, including jump dispersal and constrained dispersal by geographical distance. Lineages accumulated gradually towards the present, with minor divergence in morphological traits and conservatism of climatic niches. In contrast, in the Lacerta agilis lineage, niche evolution may have allowed expansion towards colder environments. Morphological and climatic niche evolution were uncoupled from diversification rates. Main Conclusions: Biogeographical processes largely explain the constant lineage diversification of green lizards in the Mediterranean Basin since the Miocene, followed by gradual phenotypic divergence unrelated to cladogenesis. Climatic niche conservatism promoted the accumulation of lineages within the Mediterranean, except for L. agilis, where climatic niche evolution might underpin its range spread towards higher latitudes.
Enzeroth, A. (1982) -
Eplanova, G.V. (2004) -
Eplanova, G.V. (2008) -
Seasonal activity of three species of lizards (Lacertidae) — Eremias arguta (Pallas, 1773), Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758, Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823), living in Samara Region, was analyzed. Periods of seasonal activity for E. arguta and L. agilis (on dates of the fi rst occurrence in the spring and last meeting before hibernation) are adduced according to the author’s observation in 2001—2006. Differences in period of activity of adult and young individuals are marked.
Eplanova, G.V. (2009) -
In this article the characteristics of reproductive biology of Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823) from the Middle Volga region are presented. Our researching resulted that viviparous lizard of that region had earlier birth date and shorter gestation period than in other regions. The long duration of newborn being in eggshell membranes was observed in some cases. The average fecundity of viviparous lizards was statistically higher or did not differ from those of the other parts of area. Newborn of Zootoca vivipara from the Middle Volga region weighed smaller than those from populations located in the north and had smaller body length than those from northern and eastern parts of its area.
Eplanova, G.V. (2011) -
The data on the population of Eremias arguta (Pallas, 1773) from the vicinity of Togliatti in this article are presented. Age structure and sex ratio in populations studied is determined.
Eplanova, G.V. (2016) -
The coloration pattern of 485 newborn sand lizards (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758) got by laboratory egg incubation was studied. The eggs were laid in terrariums by 109 pregnant females caught at two localities in the Samara Region (2011 – 2013 and 2015). The posterity of the females from the Togliatti locality ex- hibited two coloration morphs, typica exigua and immaculata-concolor, whereas that of the females from the Mordovo village (33 km from Togliatti, the opposite bank of the Volga river) had only one pattern, typica exigua. The numbers of newborns with the immaculata-concolor pattern varied from 12.8 to 25.7% in different years, with no statistical difference. The immaculata-concolor morph were found among the posterity of the females of three coloration morphs (typica exigua, immaculata-concolor, and maculate). Key words: Lacerta agilis, newborn, coloration pattern, coloration morphs, Samara Region.
Епланова Г.В. (2016) -
ОБ ОКРАСКЕ НОВОРОЖДЕННЫХ ПРЫТКОЙ ЯЩЕРИЦЫ (LACERTA AGILIS LINNAEUS, 1758) ИЗ ДВУХ ПОПУЛЯЦИЙ (САМАРСКАЯ ОБЛАСТЬ)
On adult individuals of two sand lizard populations separated by river Volga from the Samara region the variation of dorsal pattern and colour was studied. 10 morphs and aberrations of colour pattern were revealed. The frequency of non-modal colouration types was generally stable among study years (2011-2013), signifi cant differences being revealed only between male samples of 2011 and 2012 from the right-bank population. Males of the latter populations also exhibited some apparently age-related changes of colouration.
Eplanova, G.V. & Bakiev, A.G. (2002) -
Eplanova, G.V. & Bakiev, A.G. & Lysenko, T.M. (2001) -
Eplanova, G.V. & Bakiyev, A.G. & Rem, S.V. (2003) -
Eplanova, G.V. & Kalmykova, O.G. & Bakiev, A.G. & Klenina, A.A. (2018) -
Occurrence of common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) in the steppe zone on the southern border of its range (site «Burtinskaya Steppe» of the Orenburg State Nature Reserve, Russia) is confined to habitat with azonal, pre- dominantly meadow, vegetation on the hydromorphic soils. Habitat and microclimatic conditions supporting the existence of this hygrophilous forest species in the study area are caused by the spring and a rivulet flowing from it. The habitat transformation is caused by fires, construction of tourist routes, and beaver activity. All lizard individuals within study area were captured on two plots with a total area of 0.004 km2. The estimated population density has reached 7.8 individuals/1000 m2. We have found no differences in size of individual’s body between studied Zootoca vivipara population and its populations from Penza region and Samara region which are also located at the edge of species range. Among females of this species studied in various parts of species’ range, females of the site «Burtinskaya Steppe» differ based on their higher fertility and smaller mass of newborns than in more northern populations. We noted earlier appearance of lizard offspring than in most regions of the Eastern European and Asian parts of the range. We demonstrated similarity of some parameters of reproductive biology (length of female’s body, timing of the offspring appearance, fertility, length and mass of newborn lizard) of the studied population with populations located in the Middle Volga Region.
Г. В. Епланова, О. Г. Калмыкова, А. Г. Бакиев & А. А. Кленина (2018) -
Обитание живородящей ящерицы в степной зоне на южной границе ареала (участок «Буртинская степь» заповедника «Оренбургский») приурочено к участкам с азональной (преимущественно лу- говой) приручьевой растительностью на гидроморфных почвах. Биотопические и микроклиматиче- ские условия для существования здесь лесного гигрофильного вида обусловлены наличием родника и вытекающего из него ручья. Трансформацию местообитаний вызывают пожары, обустройство ту- ристических маршрутов, деятельность бобров. На исследуемой территории все ящерицы сконцен- трированы на двух площадках общей площадью 0.004 км2. Ориентировочная плотность популяции, выявленная при количественном учете, достигает 7.8 ос./1000 м2. Сравнение размеров тела живоро- дящих ящериц из «Буртинской степи» с популяциями из Пензенской и Самарской областей, также находящихся на южной периферии ареала, существенных различий не выявило. Самки живородя�- щей ящерицы заповедного участка «Буртинская степь» отличаются от самок большинства популя�-� ций из других частей ареала большей плодовитостью, а детеныши меньшей массой, чем в регионах, расположенных севернее. Появление потомства у ящериц отмечено в более ранние сроки, чем в большинстве регионов восточноевропейской и азиатской частей ареала. Анализ данных по репро- дуктивной биологии (длина тела самок, участвующих в размножении, сроки появления потомства, плодовитость, размерные характеристики новорожденных) показал их сходство с аналогичными для ящериц из популяции Среднего Поволжья.
Eplanova, G.V. & Roitberg, E.S. (2015) -
Sexing neonate animals is necessary for many evolutionary and ecological studies. Yet non-invasive sex identification of neonate reptiles is often problematic because these do not exhibit salient differences in colouration and body proportions. We examined digital images of the ventral body surface in 214 adult or subadult individuals (95 males + 119 females), 59 juveniles (29 + 30), and 156 hatchlings of the Eurasian sand lizard, Lacerta agilis. Two quantitative traits, the number of transverse rows of ventral scales and the width/length ratio of the anal plate, which are easily recordable from digital images and show no substantial correlation with body size, exhibit pronounced sexual dimorphism. A discriminant function derived from these two characters allows correct identification of the sex in 90% of juvenile individuals when males and females of older stages are used as reference samples. Also, we introduce a new qualitative trait, namely the presence/absence of the skin hyperaemia behind cloaca in hatchlings, and provide indirect evidence that this trait is likely to be strongly associated with sex.
Epova, L.A. & Kuranova, V.N. & Yartsev, V.V. & Absalyamova, E.N. (2016) -
The present paper studies Zootoca vivipara populations from the low, medium and alpine zones of the Kuznetsky Alatau. By using skeletonchronology, the age of animals was determined, and the life longevity, sex-age structure, growth rate of bone and body were estimated. Males and females had the highest growth rates of bone and body until their second wintering, and then they decreased. Slow-growing specimens reach older ages. The body length of males and females in different age classes overlaps, and the oldest individuals were not necessarily the biggest ones. The maximum age of the males and females from the highland population was 8 years, while that of the females from the middle and low mountain populations was 6 years, and that of the males was 3 and 4 years, respectively. This tendency is connected with the decrease in the growth rate and the delayed puberty onset associated with the reduced activity season with increasing altitude.
Эпова Л.А., Куранова В.Н., Ярцев В.В., Абсалямова Е.Н. (2016) -
В настоящей работе исследованы популяции Zootoca vivipara из низко-, средне- и высокогорного поясов Кузнецкого Алатау. С помощью метода скелетохронологии определён возраст животных, а также оценены продолжительность жизни, половозрастная структура, темпы прироста кости и длины тела. Установлено, что у самцов и самок наибольшая скорость роста кости и тела наблюдается до второй зимовки, а затем уменьшается. Наибольшего возраста достигают медленнорастущие особи. Длина тела самцов и самок разных возрастных классов перекрывается, причём самые старые особи не самые крупные. Максимальная зарегистрированная продолжительность жизни самцов и самок высокогорной популяции - 8 лет, самок среднегорной и низкогорной популяций - 6 лет, самцов - 3 и 4 года соответственно. Такая тенденция связана со снижением скорости роста и более поздним возрастом наступления половой зрелости при сокращении сезона активности по мере продвижения в горы.
Er-Rguibi, O. & Bursey, C.R. & Laghzaoui, E.-M. & Aglagane, A. & Kimdil, L. & Abbad, A. & El Mouden, E.H. (2022) -
Morocco has a great diversity of reptiles; more than 26% of the herpetofauna species are considered to be endemic. Nevertheless, there is little information available on helminth parasites of Moroccan lizards. The purpose of this article is to establish a helminth list using non-invasive methods for natural populations of seven lizard species: Acanthodactylus maculatus, Chalcides mionecton, Chalcides montanus, Chalcides polylepis, Quedenfeldtia moerens, Quedenfeldtia trachyblepharus, and Tarentola mauritanica. For each species, prevalence and intensity of infection were given as well as their relationship to some determinant parameters (sex, age class, size, altitude, and seasons). Four species of nematodes, Parapharyngodon micipsae, Pharyngodon mamillatus, Spauligodon auziensis, Thelandros alatus, and unassigned Spauligodon were found. Mean helminth intensity for the seven lizard species was 7.3 ± 16.2 SD (range = 1–92 in infected lizards), with total infection prevalence of 5.6%. Mixed infections were observed in Chalcides montanus and Chalcides polylepis co-infected by Pharyngodon mamillatus and Spauligodon sp. Furthermore, the intensity of infection by nematodes were significantly different among the seven studied species. The nematode infection in Chalcides mionecton were related to sex, host size, and altitude; in Chalcides polylepis to the host age; in Quedenfeldtia trachyblepharus to elevation, age, and host size; and in Tarentola Mauritanica to age, body size, seasons, and altitude. In conclusion, our study provides data about nine new host and locality records and the effect of some determinant factors on host parasitism.
Erber, J. (1864) -
Erber, J. (1868) -
Erdolu, M. (2023) -
Erdolu, M. & Sahin, M.K. & Somel, M. & Yanchukov, A. (2023) -
Among vertebrates, obligate parthenogenesis is only found in Squamata, where it always has a hybrid origin and a few lizard genera contain most of the known hybridogenous parthenogenetic taxa. Parthenogenesis thus seems to be pre-conditioned at the genus level, but it is not clear how often the encounter between two parental sexually reproducing species can result in the parthenogenetic offspring, nor whether the success of such hybridization event requires certain conditions or the specific time frame. To address this question, we studied the rock lizards of genus Darevskia, where a pair of parental species, D. valentini and D. raddei, as well as their parthenogenetic daughter species D. bendimahiensis and D. sapphirina, are found in close proximity NE of the Lake Van in East Anatolia. Using ddRAD-seq genotyping on 19 parental and 18 hybrid individuals, we found that (i) all parthenogenetic individuals from both D. bendimahiensis and D. sapphirina have a monophyletic origin tracing back to a single initial hybrid population, but their current genetic variation is geographically structured; (ii) unlike the most probable paternal ancestor, the genetically closest extant population of the maternal ancestor is not the geographically nearest one; and (iii) in the parthenogens, about 1% of loci carry multiple haplotypes, frequently differentiated by multiple substitutions. This pattern, in addition to biases in the relative frequency of haplotypes of maternal and paternal origin, does not appear compatible with a scenario of the entire parthenogenic clonal population having descended from a single pair of parental individuals. Instead, the data suggest that multiple parental individual ancestries still persist in the parthenogenetic gene pool. This supports the notion that although hybridization leading to parthenogenesis is generally rare at the level of species, it may be more common at the individual/population level once the right conditions are met.
Eremchenko, V.K. (1999) -
Eremchenko, V.K. & Panfilov A.M. (1999) -
Eremchenko, V.K. & Panfilov, A.M. (1999) -
Eremchenko, V.K. & Panfilov, A.M. & Tzarinenko, E.I. (1992) -
Erkinaro, E. (1974) -
Ernst, K. (2017) -
Das Ziel dieser Studie ist, neue Erkenntnisse über die bevorzugten ökologische Nischen und die aktuelle Verbreitung der Kroatischen Gebirgseidechse Iberolacerta horvathi (MÉHELY, 1904) innerhalb Österreichs zu gewinnen. Eine aussagekräftige Vorhersage werden wir mittels Modellierung der potentiellen Verbreitung (SDM – Species‘ distribution modeling) für Österreich treffen und darstellen können. Für die korrelative Modellierung implementieren und analysieren wir artspezifische Habitat-Präferenzen unter Berücksichtigung geologischer, topografischer, bioklimatischer und ökologischer Variablen, basierend auf Daten bisher bekannter Fundorte. Eine anschließende Freilandstudie an die vom Modell berechneten Standorte mit hoher Wahrscheinlichkeit weiterer Vorkommen, soll schlussendlich zur Entdeckung noch unbekannter besetzter Nischen von I. horvathi in Österreich führen. Endresultat der Studie wird eine umfassende Art-Charakterisierung und eine Verbreitungskarte der potentiellen, als auch realisierten Habitate, entlang der nördlichen Verbreitungsgrenze der Kroatischen Gebirgseidechse in Österreich sein. Außerdem testen wir die Aussagekraft der Modellierung, die zukünftig auch als hilfreiche, flexible Methode in Bezug auf Artenschutz Anwendung finden könnte.
Ernst, K. & Gollmann, G. & Plutzar, C. & Schweiger, S. (2017) -
Eroğlu, A.I. & Bülbül, U. & Kurnaz, M. (2017) -
The life-history traits of Podarcis siculus were studied by skeletochronology in a population inhabiting an altitude of 28 m a.s.l. in Filyos, Turkey. The mean age was 6.8 years while the minimum and maximum age ranged from 4-12 years in males and 4-10 years in females, respectively. The mean age of the specimens was not significantly different between sexes. The age at sexual maturity was 2-3 years for both sexes. There was a significant positive correlation between snout-vent length (SVL) and age in males, while there was no correlation in females. A strong male-biased sexual size dimorphism (SSD) was observed in the population. For both sexes, the estimated asymptotic SVL was slightly lower than the maximum SVL. The recorded growth coefficient (k) was slightly lower in males than in females (k ± CI, males: 0.76 ± 0.22; females: 0.94 ± 0.22). There was no growth rate difference between both sexes (P = 0.594).
Life-history traits of a Turkish population of Podarcis tauricus (Pallas, 1814) were studied using the meth- ods of skeletochronology. in the adult sample (20 males and 20 females from the population of the village of sergen), the age ranged from 4-10 ( = 6.68) years for both sexes collectively, 5-10 ( = 7.2) years in males, 4-10 ( = 6.15) years in females and differed significantly between sexes. derived from the LaG (Lines of arrested Growth) configuration, the age at sexual maturity was 2-3 years in both males and females. There was a positive correlation between the lizards’ body size (sVL) and number of LaGs counted in the toe bones. sexual size dimor- phism was weakly expressed by the slightly bigger snout-vent-length of the males (sdi = -0.005). The growth coefficient (k) was lower in males than in females (k ± Confidence interval; males: 0.37 ± 0.16; females: 0.67 ± 0.22). There was no difference in growth rate between sexes.
Eroğlu, A.I. & Bülbül, U. & Kurnaz, M. & Odabaş, Y. (2018) -
The present study was designed to compare the life history traits of two Podarcis muralis populations located at sites of different elevation. The age at maturity was similar in both populations, whereas longevity was found to be lower in the lowland one (Dereköy). The males and females of both populations had a similar snout-vent length (SVL) and mean age. Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) was weak in the highland population, males being slightly larger than females, whereas a strong male-biased SSD was observed in the lowland one. The growth coefficient (k) and growth rates were similar in both populations. This study indicates that the age at maturation (2-3 years) and growth rates (2.37 mm/year) are similar in two populations of P. muralis exposed to different climatic and environmental conditions. Longevity was slightly higher in the highland population (16 years) compared to the lowland one (14 years).
Erotokritou, E. & Mammides, C. & Vogiatzakis, F.I. & Sfenthourakis, S. (2022) -
Despite global efforts to halt biodiversity loss, it continues to decline due to a combination of unsustainable actions, increasing the urgency for measures to reverse this trend. A major constraint regarding efficient biodiversity management is the lack of knowledge on most species` population size and abundance patterns. Reptiles are used in ecological research as model organisms due to their ease in handling, and their diversity in behaviour and ecology. Reptile diversity of Cyprus is high and includes several endemic species. The aim of this study was to compare lizard diversity patterns along riverbanks within and around designated protected areas. Riparian habitats have received less attention in conservation-oriented studies in Mediterranean regions, despite their ecological significance and the distinct communities they host, or their vulnerability to climate change. The role of environmental factors, seasonality, and habitat heterogeneity for lizard assemblages in riparian areas was evaluated along three rivers that flow inside and outside protected areas. The abundances of the four more common species (Ophisops elegans, Phoenicolacerta troodica, Laudakia cypriaca, and Acanthodactylus schreiberi) were evaluated separately. We recorded most of Cyprus’ lizard species in riparian habitats, but diversity and richness were not associated with any of the explanatory variables. The abundances of the four species exhibited different relationships each with elevation, season, and protection status, but not with habitat heterogeneity. The latter could be related to the fact that riparian habitat heterogeneity patterns are very similar throughout the study sites. Our results suggest that Cyprus’ lizard diversity and riparian habitats have not been considered much in the design of protected areas.
Erve, F. van (2004) -
Erve, F. van (2008) -
Escala, M.C. & Perez Mendia, J.L. (1979) -
Escandell Salom, T. (2007) -
Escoriza Abril, E. (2005) -
Escoriza, D. (2008) -
Escoriza, D. (2018) -
Reptiles are a successful group in subtropical arid regions. However, little is known about the drivers that influence the diversity of arid reptile communities. One approach is to investigate the variation in phylogenetic structure of the communities along a broad environmental gradient. In this study, I investigated these patterns in the communities of lacertids at the periphery of the Sahara Desert in Tunisia. The effect of the environment was assessed based on a set of variables describing the climate, topography, substrate and cover of perennial vegetation. The phylogenetic alpha diversity was described using the mean pairwise distance (MPD) and the mean nearest taxon distance (NTD) metrics. The analyses showed that the lacertid species could be clustered into three main ecological groups: mesic (Podarcis vaucheri, Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus blanci, Timon pater), xeric (Acanthodactylus blanci, Acanthodactylus boskianus, Acanthodactylus maculatus, Mesalina olivieri, Ophisops occidentalis), and hyperxeric (Acanthodactylus dumerilii, Acanthodactylus longipes, Acanthodactylus scutellatus, Mesalina guttulata). The analyses also indicated that environment had a weak influence on species richness (15.7% of explained variance), but a strong effect on the phylogenetic (76.5% NTD, 89.5% MPD) structure. The lacertid communities tended to be phylogenetically clustered on sandy substrates under arid climate conditions, and overdispersed under more humid climatic conditions.
Escoriza, D. (2020) -
Mediterranean islands have complex reptile assemblages, but little is known about the factors that determine their organization. In this study, the structure of as-semblages of Squamata was evaluated based on their species richness and two measures of phylogenetic diversity (variability and clustering). I evaluated the com-position of the assemblages comparing distinct biogeographic subregions within the Mediterranean: Adriatic, Aegean, Balearic, Corsica–Sardinia, Crete, Gulf of Gabés, Ionian Sea, Ligurian Sea, Malta, Sicily, and Tyrrhenian Sea. The effect of island en-vironments and geographical isolation on the diversity metrics was assessed using generalized linear models. The analyses indicated that species richness was mostly influenced by island area and geographical isolation. Assemblages on smaller islands were poorer in species and phylogenetically dispersed, possibly as an effect of inter-specific competition. The species composition of the assemblages was determined by similar environmental drivers within the biogeographic subregions, including is-land area, island elevation, geographical isolation, and aridity. In several subregions, significant patterns of phylogenetic attraction were found in species co-occurrences, caused by the limits imposed by the island size on large predatory species
Background. The western Mediterranean archipelagos have a rich endemic fauna, which includes five species of reptiles. Most of these archipelagos were colonized since early historic times by anthropochoric fauna, such as ship rats (Rattus rattus). Here, I evaluated the influence of ship rats on the occurrence of island reptiles, including non-endemic species. Methodology. I analysed a presence-absence database encompassing 159 islands (Balearic Islands, Provence Islands, Corso-Sardinian Islands, Tuscan Archipelago, and Galite) using Bayesian-regularized logistic regression. Results. The analysis indicated that ship rats do not influence the occurrence of endemic island reptiles, even on small islands. Moreover, Rattus rattus co-occurred positively with two species of non-endemic reptiles, including a nocturnal gecko, a guild considered particularly vulnerable to predation by rats. Overall, the analyses showed a very different pattern than that documented in other regions of the globe, possibly attributable to a long history of coexistence.
Escoriza, D. (2024) -
Background Lizards of the genus Podarcis are widespread in the Mediterranean region, including islands and island archipelagos. These small-bodied lizards have a predominantly protective green-brown colouration. However, some populations display unusual patterns, in which the colouration is predominantly blue or uniformly black. This study explores the factors that influence this chromatic variation, whether environmental (climate and island conditions) or evolutionary (phylogenetic trait conservatism). The colouration of 1400 individuals (27 species) was analysed in the CIELAB colour space. Results Pagel’s λ indicated that colouration is weakly conserved within phylogenetic lineages. Although the island surface plays a key role in the chromatic variability of these lacertids, geographic isolation and climate hold less influence. The colouration of some small island populations tends to be uniform and dark, possibly due to intense intraspecific competition and lower predatory pressure. Conclusions This study highlights the importance of island populations in understanding the processes that favour the emergence of extreme phenotypes in small ectothermic vertebrates.
Escoriza, D. & Amat, F. (2021) -
South-western Europe has a rich diversity of lacertid lizards. In this study, we evaluated the occupancy patterns and niche segregation of five species of lacertids, focusing on large-bodied species (i.e., adults having >75 mm snout-vent length) that occur in south-western Europe (Italian to the Iberian Peninsula). We characterized the niches occupied by these species based on climate and vegetation cover properties. We expected some commonality among phylogenetically related species, but also patterns of habitat segregation mitigating competition between ecologically equivalent species. We used multivariate ordination and probabilistic methods to describe the occupancy patterns and evaluated niche evolution through phylogenetic analyses. Our results showed climate niche partitioning, but with a wide overlap in transitional zones, where segregation is maintained by species-specific responses to the vegetation cover. The analyses also showed that phylogenetically related species tend to share large parts of their habitat niches. The occurrence of independent evolutionary lineages contributed to the regional species richness favored by a long history of niche divergence.
Escoriza, D. & López-Ortiz, R. (2005) -
Escoriza, D. & S. Poch (2023) -
Se describe por primera vez el comportamiento de rehidratación de Scelarcis perspicillata. En julio de 2022 se pudo observar un espécimen salvaje lamiendo las gotas de agua del rocío en varias hojas de una alcaparra Capparis spinosa. Esta fuente de humedad puede ser la única disponible durante los meses de verano en los hábitats rocosos poco vegetados que ocupa esta especie en Menorca.
Escribano Camacho, P. & Rubio de Luca, J.L. (2021) -
The Schreiber’s Green Lizard (Lacerta schreiberi) is a midsized lacertid lizard that is endemic from the Iberian Peninsula. It shows a markedly Atlantic distribution that enters the eastern Peninsula through mountain ranges. A review of the bibliography on the species shows that after an increment of information about the species geographic distribution during the last years, there has been a slowing down of new contributions, and some isolated populations, as those of Sierra Morena range at the south of the general distribution, still generate doubts about their existence at present time. The aim of this work is to review and update the available information on the geographic distribution, habitat, and conservation status of the species. With regard to the habitat preferences (not entirely conclusive yet), it has been reported that L. schreiberi would select environments with high levels of precipitation and humidity, what is consistent with its preponderant presence in the western Peninsula, and its frequent occurrence close to water bodies. The species is classified as “Near Threatened”; the more peripheral and isolated populations being the most vulnerable and at risk of disappearing within the coming decades. The bibliographic review of this work seeks to contribute with a base for new information on the distribution and the variables determining the presence and abundance of the species, and thus for future necessary conservation plans.
Eskinaro, E. (1974) -
Espasandin, I. (2024) -
Esposito, F. & Costa, R. & Boieiro, M. (2021) -
The study of flower visitor behavior and pollen transport dynamics within and between plants can be of great importance, especially for threatened or rare plant species. In this work, we aim to assess the flower visitor assemblage of the Madeiran endemic Echium candicans and evaluate the performance of the most common visitors through the analysis of their foraging behavior and pollen loads. The flower visitor assemblage of E. candicans is diverse, including several insect groups and the endemic lizard Teira dugesii, but bees are the most common visitors. In general, large bees (Amegilla quadrifasciata, Apis mellifera, and Bombus spp.) had the highest average visitation rates (>18 flowers/min) and their pollen loads had higher percentages of homospecific pollen (>66%) when compared with butterflies and hoverflies. The honeybee (Apis mellifera) and two bumblebees (Bombus terrestris and B. ruderatus) were the most efficient flower visitors of E. candicans, but their foraging behavior seems to favor geitonogamy. Other visitors, such as butterflies and the small bee Lasioglossum wollastoni, may have a complementary role to the honeybee and bumblebee species, as their high mobility is associated with fewer flower visits on each plant and may promote xenogamy. Two non-native bees (A. mellifera and B. ruderatus) are important flower visitors of E. candicans and may contribute mostly to self-pollination rendering the endemic plant more vulnerable to inbreeding effects.
Esser, S. (2010) -
Esser, S. (2011) -
Es wird über die langjährige und erfolgreiche Haltung und Nachzucht der Omaneidechse Omanosaura jayakari im Terrarium berichtet. Hierbei werden insbesondere Angaben zum Verhalten der Echsen sowie gewonnene Daten zur Fortpflanzungsbiologie mitgeteilt.
Esser, S. & Böhme, W. (2009) -
Essghaier, M.F.A. & Taboni, I.M. & Etayeb, K.S. (2015) -
Fezzan province (Libya) is a segment of true Sahara, is characterized by diverse habitats that are utilized as shelters and feeding ground for many desert wildlife species. Oases with water table near the surface are the most prominent feature in the Libyan desert. The diversity in habitats resulted in diversity in wildlife, as well as the plant cover (trees and bushes) is the most effective factor for the existence and the abundance of wild animals, in particular bird species. This study observed many species of reptiles, birds and mammals. In the study is also reported the rock hyrax Procavia capensis Pallas, 1766 (Hyracoidea Procaviidae) a rare and endemic species at the area.
Essl, F. (2000) -
Esteban, M. et al (1994) -
Esterbauer, H. (1983) -
Esterbauer, H. (1985) -
Esterbauer, H. (1992) -
Während zweier Aufenthalte von sechseinhalb bzw. acht Monaten im syrisch-libanesisch-islraelischen Grenzgebiet hatte ich Gelegenheit, die dortige Herpetofauna zu studieren. Besonders intensiv untersuchte ich Südwest-Syrien, nämlich die östlichen Golanhöhen und den Hermon. 6 Amphibien-und 33 Reptilienarten konnten nachgewiesen werden, die mit Angaben ihrer Fundorte, Nahrungsgewohnheiten, Habitate und hinweisungswürdigen Anmerkungen aufgelistet werden.
Esterbauer, H. (1993) -
Esterbauer, H. (2003) -
Esterbauer, H. (2005) -
Esterbauer, H. (2018) -
Esteves, F.M.M.F. (2017) -
Reptiles are the most common non-flying terrestrial vertebrates in insular ecosystems, being commonly associated with seabird colonies, where they use the resources made available by the presence of birds, and sometimes prey on the birds. Selvagem Grande is an important seabird colony. Cory’s shearwater, Calonectris borealis, nests in this island on burrows and rock cavities. In these nests, it is possible to find a high abundance of invertebrates, many of them bird ectoparasites. Selvagem Grande is also the home of a lacertid, the Madeiran wall lizard, Teira dugesii. This small omnivorous lizard is often found in Cory’s shearwater nests, and sometimes preys on chicks and eggs of this species. Like other lacertids, T. dugesii is diurnal, heliothermic and thermophile, relying on high temperatures to be active. Despite this, it’s common to find active Madeiran Wall lizards in Cory’s nests during the night. Cory’s shearwaters, like other seabirds, return to land at night to feed the chicks and it is plausible that the lizards may be extending its daily cycle to take advantage of the leftover food. It is also plausible that the lizards are using the residual heat of the nests or of the birds to maintain a higher internal temperature during the night. The present study aims to improve the knowledge about the relationship between these two species by characterizing abiotic and biotic conditions in Cory’s nests, assessing lizard activity and behavior and determining the main stimuli attracting lizards to the nests, and describing the diel thermal cycle of the lizards associated with nests. The nests were filmed to describe the daily variation in activity and behavior of lizards. The influence of the stimuli “sardine smell” and “heat” in lizards was tested during the day and night. Finally, the daily variation of T. dugesii’s body temperature, with and without access to nests, was described. All sampling took place during 3 distinct phases of Cory’s reproductive cycle: incubation period, chick rearing, and their abandonment of nests. Despite occupied nests being deeper, their thermal conditions were not different from unoccupied ones. Unoccupied nests had fewer invertebrates, housing only about 2% of the ectoparasites found in occupied nests. Lizards displayed a more frequent and wider array of behaviors, especially those related to feeding, in occupied nests. Lizard activity in nests with birds was particularly intense just after the chicks hatched. During this time, individuals of T. dugesii were 3 times more present and spent 7 times more time searching for food in occupied nests. Lizards responded more rapidly and in greater numbers to the stimulus “sardine smell”, both during the day and night. Despite being apparently ineffective in attracting lizards, the stimulus “heat” was used for thermoregulation whenever available. Madeiran Wall lizard body temperatures, despite being almost always higher, varied with the environment. Of the 43 lizards captured during the night, 13 were found inside Cory’s nests and even underneath chicks. The measured body temperature in these lizards was 4.40 ± 1.63 ºC above the environmental temperature. Only the heat emitted by the nests occupants explains such temperature differences during the night. This is one of the few recorded cases of nocturnal activity in lacertids and possibly the first one involving thermoregulation in birds’ nests.
Estrada-Pena, A. (2017) -
Hyalomma franchinii is a three-host tick with one life cycle per year under natural conditions. The immature stages of Hy. franchinii parasitize lizards and, less commonly, rodents. Adult hosts are camels, cattle, sheep and donkeys. Immature stages are found on lizards all year around, having been recorded on Acanthodactylus boskianus, Acanthodactylus schreiberi, Acanthodactylus scutellatus and Agama mutabilis according to data summarised by Apanaskevich et al. (2008). Adults appear to be most common during the cooler months of the year. Observations in Egypt (July and August) mentioned a duration of egg development of about 25 days, and a duration of larval moult of about 14–16 days (recorded in September–October)
Estrela, H. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. (2014) -
Evans, J.S. & Eifler, D.A. & Eifler, M.A. (2017) -
Risk assessment and behavioral responses to predation can depend on demographic and environmental factors. We studied the escape behavior of the sand-diving lizard Meroles anchietae in the Namib Desert, using simulated predator approaches and measuring latency to burying in sand. Lizards showed a clear preference for burying on a slipface. Flight initiation distance was largely influenced by the starting distance separating the lizard and pursuer, and whether the animal was initially sighted on or off a slipface. In general, longer starting distances were associated with longer flight initiation distances. The total flight distance covered by lizards before burying was inversely related to body size, and positively related to initial distance from a slipface crest. Distance from a slipface crest was associated with increased total flight distance, most dramatically for those initially sighted on a dune slipface. Even when shelter is ubiquitous, sand-dive patterns depend on location on a dune and body condition.
Evenhuis, T. (2002) -
During a herperological journey to Sardinia in may 2001 19 of the 25 species of reptiles and amphibians were spotted. Especially Podarcis tiliguerta, chalices ocellatus and Coluber viridiflavus were abundant throughour the entire island. Tarentola mauritanica, Hyla sarda and Podarcis sicula cettii were locally abundant. Few animals of the other species were seen. Only Hydromantes flavus, Hydromantes genei, Lacerta bedriagae, Coluber hippocrepis, Elaphe longissima and Natrix natrix cetti were not seen.
Evenhuis, T. (2006) -
Herpetological observations on La Gomera in November 2005 The author visited La Gomera (the Canaries) in November 2005. This is the second smallest island of the archipelago, which consists of islands that arose from volcanic actions. The age and the isolated location gave rise to several endemic species. The species occurring most often on La Gomera is Gallotia caesaris (males up to 30 cm), which was found in several biotopes. This animal is found on El Hierro too. Gallotia gomerana is a large lizard (50-60 cm), that until recently was thought of as being extinct. After its rediscovery in 1999 the animals are kept and bred in a breeding-centre on the island. It is an endemic species. Chalcides viridanus is a skink that was observed in several habitats too. This species can be found on other islands (El Hierro and Tenerife). Tarentola gomerensis is a widespread gecko, found in many biotopes. This species is found only on La Gomera. Hyla meridionalis is a more recent immigrant, which arrived on the archipelago from southern Europe, probably by human interference. The only possible other species that could perhaps be found on the island is Rana perezi This animal was not observed.
Eversmann, E. (1834) -
Eversmann, E. (1844) -
Ewald, P. (1989) -
Ewald, W.F. (1906) -
Fabaian, S. & Giovanelli, M.M. & Lapini, L. & Morandini, C. & Zanetti, M. (2007) -
Faberl, F. & Faberl, H. (1991) -
Fadda, A. & Medda, M. (2001) -
Faggyas, S. & Vajda, Z. (2011) -
Due to the geography of the lowlands in the Great Hungarian Plain between the River Tisza and Danube a large number of various wetland types exists there. These marshes, bogs, oxbow lakes and artificial wetlands such as channels, canals and fishponds provide ideal habitats for amphibians. In the Kiskunság area the road network is not very dense; nevertheless it still causes fragmentation by isolating the different habitat patches. For many migrating populations movement between the different habitats is impossible without crossing busy roads. With no human intervention massive amphibian road kills occurs at those sites. In many cases the erection of deflector walls with the installation of temporary bucket traps is the cheapest rescue operation. A permanent but more expensive solution is the installation of fixed guiding fences to lead the migrating animals through tunnels built under the road. The Kiskunság National Park Directorate initiated two construction programs with the help of EU founded (KEOP) projects. It has already installed 5 underpasses along highway No. 52 with more than 3 km long guiding fences. In the near future a new system of tunnels, namely ACO Climate tunnels will be built. Two different types - the so-called near-surface tunnels and the flush surface tunnels - are available to ensure that the best solution can be found even for complicated locations. The crucial transition zone to the tunnel is formed by the ‘ACO Entrance unit’ together with the adjacent ‘ACO Guide wall’ elements. The entrance is cone-shaped to guide the animals into the tunnel. In the framework of the planned project a total of 26 climate tunnels and about fourkilometer- long guiding fences will be installed on both sides of the road at three sites (between Ópusztaszer and Baks, near Balástya and near Mórahalom).
A Duna-Tisza köze földrajzi adottságainak köszönhetıen számos természetes és ember alkotta vizes élıhellyel rendelkezik: folyómedrek, lápos-mocsaras területek, szikes tavak, holtágak, kubikgödrök, csatornák, halastavak sokasága. A terület viszonylag nem túl sőrő közúthálózata is jelentısen izolálja egymástól a különbözı élıhelyeket, mely komoly problémát okoz azon fajok számára, melyek élıhelyük és szaporodó helyük között vándorlásra kényszerülnek. A Kiskunsági Nemzeti Park Igazgatóság több módszert is alkalmazott a vándorló kétéltő populációk megvédése érdekében: ideiglenes terelıket és a hozzá kapcsolódó vödörcsapdákat; illetve állandó, de jóval költségesebb módszert, a fix terelırendszereket és átjárókat. A KNPI több veszélyes útszakaszon EU-s pályázat (KEOP) keretében kívánja véglegesen megoldani a kétéltőállomány védelmét. Ennek során az egyik pályázat segítségével az 52. számú fıút alatt három új átjáró került kialakításra, további két meglévı átereszt pedig a hozzájuk kapcsolódó terelıhálókkal sikerült aktívvá tenni. Egy újabb pályázat keretében három helyszínen összesen 26 db átjáró és mintegy 4 km hosszan az út mindkét oldalán kialakítandó terelırendszer tervei készültek el: a Pusztaszeri Tájvédelmi Körzet Szeri-pusztát érintı részén Ópusztaszer és Baks között több mint három kilométer hosszan mintegy 20 átjáró kerül kialakításra, az 5-ös számú fıút alatt a Natura 2000-es balástyai Müller-székhez kötıdı kétéltőállományt négy, míg a mórahalmi Nagy-Széksós-tóhoz kötıdı kétéltő állományt két átjáró létesítésével igyekszünk megóvni. A projekt keretében egy Magyarországon új technológiát fogunk alkalmazni: ebben az esetben nem az aszfaltba mélyen besüllyesztett csırıl van szó, hanem az aszfalttal egy szintben lévı, kétéltőeknek és más kisebb testő állatok számára is kedvezı, átvilágított elemek beépítésére kerül sor (ACO Wildlife PRO: ACO Climate tunnel). Az alkalmazandó technológia elınye, hogy a terelıelemek és az átjárók is polimer betonból készülnek, így azok számos pozitív tulajdonságuk mellett várhatóan jóval hosszabb életőek lesznek a hagyományos mőanyag terelıknél.
Fahd, S. & Mediani, M. (2007) -
Fahl, A.-K. (2014) -
Die Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis LAURENTI, 1768) gilt in Deutschland als stark gefährdet und ist europaweit streng geschützt. Ein Bestandsrückgang und eine Verinselung autochthoner Populationen aufgrund Lebensraumverlustes sind in Baden-Württemberg festzustellen. Daher wurde im Rahmen dieser Arbeit das Habitat einer autochthonen Population am Heidelberger Neckarufer zwischen der Theodor-Heuss-Brücke und der Alten Brücke auf Eignung und Qualität überprüft, bisherige Pflegemaßnahmen des Biotops evaluiert und der Zustand der Mauereidechsen beurteilt. Im Laufe einer dreimonatigen Untersuchungszeit wurden 118 Individuen der Mauereidechse gefangen, makroskopisch untersucht und vermessen. Die Erkennung von Wiederfängen erfolgte anhand Fotografien, Farbmarkierungen und individueller Merkmale. Derzeit leben die Mauereidechsen der untersuchten Population auf einer Mauerfläche von maximal 2264 m². Die für Mauereidechsen wichtigen Strukturen, wie ausreichend Sonnenplätze, spaltenreiches Mauerwerk und sandiges Substrat zur Eiablage, sind auf mindestens 31,4 % der besiedelten Fläche vollständig vorhanden. Die Populationsgröße beträgt ca. 193 Tiere und hat sich seit der letzten umfassenden Untersuchung im Jahre 1997 verdoppelt. Eine erfolgreiche Reproduktion konnte anhand zahlreicher Jungtiere und einem Anteil von 44,1 % subadulter Tiere bestätigt werden. Geschlechtsabhängige morphologische Merkmale der adulten Eidechsen in dieser Population sind ein statistisch sehr signifikanter Unterschied in der Kopf-Rumpf-Länge und hoch signifikante Unterschiede in Gewicht und Kopflänge zugunsten der männlichen Tiere. Eine kupferrote Unterseitenfärbung ist in dieser Population dominierend, nur eines der untersuchten Individuen wies eine rein gelbe Unterseitenfärbung auf. Mindestens zwei melanistische Jungtiere konnten beobachtet werden. 69,5 % aller Individuen wiesen eine Schwanzautotomie auf, zudem konnte eine Zehverlustrate von 45,8 % und in Einzelfällen weitere Verletzungen festgestellt werden. Ein Milbenbefall (Deutonymphen von Gamasiden) konnte bei 39,8 % der Mauereidechsen diagnostiziert werden. Hierbei besteht eine statistisch hoch signifikante Abhängigkeit vom Geschlecht mit mehr infizierten Männchen. Ein auf die Mauereidechsen negativer Einfluss durch Passanten wird aufgrund der Beobachtung von Fangversuchen vermutet. Eine weitgehende Isolierung der Population aufgrund natürlicher und anthropogener Barrieren ist sehr wahrscheinlich. Grundsätzlich ist der Zustand der Population als gut zu bewerten. Jedoch zeigt das Vorkommen von subadulten Individuen in ungeeigneten Habitaten und eine stellenweise sehr hohe Populationsdichte das Erreichen der Kapazitätsgrenze in diesem Gebiet an. Die bisher durchgeführten Pflegemaßnahmen sind positiv zu bewerten, eine Fortführung ist zur Aufrechterhaltung der jetzigen Populationsgröße notwendig. Künftige Maßnahmen sollten auf eine Ausweitung der Pflegemaßnahmen auf weitere Teilbereiche des Biotops und eine Arealerweiterung in Richtung Alte Brücke abzielen, um die für die Eidechsen verfügbare Fläche zu vergrößern. Auch sollten Passanten besser über den Schutzstatus der Mauereidechse informiert werden. Auf eine Komplettsanierung der Mauerflächen sollte künftig verzichtet werden. Langfristig sollte eine Verbindung der Mauereidechsenpopulation zum nächstgelegenen Vorkommen am Philosophenweg in etwa 500 m Entfernung angestrebt werden. Somit könnten potentiell negative Folgen einer verringerten genetischen Diversität aufgrund der Isolierung vermieden und die Populationen dauerhaft stabilisiert werden.
Fahl, A.-K. (2016) -
In the course of an ecological survey, high toe loss rates were detected in a population of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) in Heidelberg. In nearly 46 percent of the lizards captured (n = 118) a loss of at least one toe was observed, with females seeming to be more affected. Intraspecific conflicts due to high abundance of the species connected with expansion difficulties of the local population would be a possible explanation. Furthermore, a mite infestation with Ophionyssus saurarum, family Macronyssidae, affecting almost 40 percent of the lizards captured with males being statistically more affected was discovered in Baden-Württemberg for the first time. Despite these adverse influences, the population is stable and increased over the last years, due to professional maintenance of the habitat.
Fahr, A. (1911) -
Fain, A. & Bannert, B. (2000) -
Two new species of the genus Ophionyssus Mgnin, 1884 (Acari: Macronyssidae) are described, O. galloticolus spec. nov. parasitizing the lacertid lizard Gallotia galloti eisentrauti from Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain, and O. setosus spec. nov. parasitic on Gallotia stehlini from Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain.
Fain, A. & Bannert, B. (2002) -
Falaschi, M. (2021) -
Measuring the abundance of organisms is essential to provide information to ecology and biodiversity conservation.Hardly ever, the probability of detecting an animal during a survey is near one. Overlooking this observational process canlead to biased estimates of population size and vital rates. In this study, through Bayesian modeling, I evaluated the effects oftemperature, precipitation, wind, humidity, and phenology in determining changes in the detection probability of the commonwall lizard, for which studies on the factors determining detection probability are currently not available. Additionally, I testedfor two possible interactions: date-temperature and date-humidity, in order to assess if the relationships of these variableswith detection probability vary through the sampling season. Detection probability was highest earlier in the season (April)and between 24 and 28 degrees. Rainfall during the survey showed a negative effect on detection probability. In contrast,cumulative precipitation in the 24 hours before the survey showed a positive relationship, indicating that lizards are easierto detect in surveys after rainy days. Furthermore, date and temperature showed a positive interaction, indicating that therelationship between detectability and temperature changed over the sampling season. Date and humidity showed a negativeinteraction: late in the sampling season, detectability was higher with lower humidity, however, this relationship was not foundin the early season. Future studies can consider multiple sites to evaluate the extent of variation in the drivers of detectionprobability and to assess the factors related to abundance.
Falck, J.W. (1953) -
Falco, M. de & Laforgia, V, & Fedele, V. & Russo, T. & De Luca, L. Cottone, G. Varano, L. & De Luca, A. (2002) -
Although the structural and pharmacological properties of endothelin (ET) receptors have been studied, little is known concerning their physiological significance, even if each subtype is supposed to have a distinct physiological action. Thus, to further elucidate the physiological function of this receptor, we examined the presence and distribution of the endothelin-B receptor (ETB) subtype in tissues of the lizard Podarcis sicula, using immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. Immunoblotting indicated that, although the ETB receptor appears to be ubiquitous, it is present at different levels in the tissues examined. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry showed that this receptor is very abundant in endothelial cells of all tissues, suggesting that there is an ETB-mediated autocrine system of endothelin, which plays an important role in the regulation of endothelial cell function. On the other hand, the presence of ETB immunoreactivity also in endocrine systems such as adrenal and thyroid glands suggests an involvement also in the paracrine system of these organs.
Falco, M. de & Sciarrillo, E. & Virgilio, F. & Fedele, V. & Valiante, S. & Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. (2004) -
Falco, M. de & Sciarrillo, R. & Capaldo, A. & Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. & Cottone, G. & Luca, A. de (2003) -
The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution and function of VIP in the adrenal gland of the lizard, Podarcis sicula. We have shown by immunohistochemistry that VIP fibers were localized exclusively around clusters of chromaffin cells in the dorsal ribbon of the lizard adrenal gland. Moreover, a strong positivity for this peptide was observed within ganglial cells and within most chromaffin cells of the gland. To investigate the effects of VIP on the adrenal gland, we have treated lizards with several doses of this peptide and we have shown that injections of exogenous VIP increased plasma levels of catecholamines and corticosteroids, but not of ACTH. This probably suggests a direct effect of VIP on the control of adrenal hormone secretion without the involvement of the hypothalamo-hypophyseal axis. Our results also establish that the increased levels of the hormones were modulated in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Therefore, our morphological studies showed a clear increased function of steroidogenic cells. In the medullary region, VIP administration induced not only a functional enhancement of adrenaline release from adrenergic cells, but also a shift of noradrenaline cells to adrenaline ones.
Falco, M. de & Sciarrillo, R. & Capaldo, A. & Russo, T. & Gray, F. & Valiante, S. & Varano, L. & Laforgia, V. (2007) -
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a large group of substances able to modulate endocrine-signaling pathways, altering the normal function of the endocrine system. Although the fungicide methyl thiophanate (MT) is not considering a specific reproductive and developmental toxicant, it can induce histopathological damages in rat thyroid and adrenal glands that have a pivotal role in both processes. We investigated the MT effects on adrenal glands of Podarcis sicula lizard, the endemic species of Southern Italy living in open country and in cultivated fields. Reptiles are good bioindicators because they are easily harvested; they have a wide distribution and large populations. Moreover, they have good sensitivity to contaminants, and bioaccumulate and biomagnify pollutants to levels equal to or greater than those of birds and mammals. We used 1.5% MT/water to pollute terraria, food, and water twice a week for 15 and 30 days, and we evaluated adrenal toxicity through biochemical (adrenal and pituitary hormone plasma levels) and histological parameters (adrenal gland histopathology). We demonstrated a time-dependent increase of corticosterone plasma levels and a decrease of ACTH plasma levels, a hypertrophy of the steroidogenic tissue, and an enlargement of blood capillaries. Moreover, we observed a time-dependent increase of adrenaline plasma levels and adrenaline-producing cells, and an opposite trend of noradrenaline plasma concentrations. We also observed lymphocyte and macrophage infiltrations, signs of cell degeneration. Our findings on the bioindicator P. sicula provide an interesting basis to further elucidate the systemic mechanisms of EDCs.
Falco, M. de & Sciarrillo, R. & Valiante, S. & Sellitti, A. & Valentino, B. & Gay, F. & Capaldo, A. & Laforgia, V. (2010) -
Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal that can act as endocrine disruptor. Cadmium has the property to accumulate in several organs after entering the body and it principally accumulates in the adrenal glands. Although the uptake mechanisms for the cellular accumulation of Cd are unknown, the most common hypothesis states that Cd uptake involves competition with essential elements such as Ca or Zn for specific transport systems. Cd induces several effects such as cell death, carcinogenesis and disruption of neurotransmitter and hormone action. Particularly, cadmium is able to alter adrenocortical function inducing an impaired capacity to secrete cortisol by steroidogenic cells of the adrenocortical tissues and stimulating catecholamine secretion. In the present paper, we investigated the effects of cadmium exposure on the adrenal gland morphology of the lizard Podarcis sicula. For this purpose, we performed two different treatments in order to investigate cadmium effects after both acute and chronic treatments. We have demonstrated that cadmium has toxic effects on the lizard Podarcis sicula. Specifically, cadmium induces, in a time-dependent manner, steroidogenic cord hyperplasia, disorganization of steroidogenic parenchyma until necrotic degeneration that in turn evokes macrophage infiltration.
Falco, M. de & Sellitti, A. & Sciarrillo, R. & Capaldo, A. & Valiante, S. & Lachetta, G. & Forte, M. & Laforgia, M. (2013) -
Nonylphenol (NP) is an endocrine disruptor widely distributed in the environment. It accumulates in the lipids of living organisms and enters the human food chain. The main source of human exposure is expected to be food, drinking water and foodstuff contaminated through leaching from packaging or pesticide formulation applications. NP acts as an estrogenic compound and it is able to mimic the action of estradiol 17β (E2) by binding to the estrogen receptor (ER). The aim of the present study was to investigate the NP effects on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal gland (HPA) axis of the bioindicator Podarcis sicula lizard. A time-dependent stimulation of the HPA axis and variations of both catecholamine plasma levels were showed. Moreover, NP effects on adrenal gland morphology were evaluated by light and transmission electron microscopy. Clear morphological signs of adrenal gland stimulation such as an increase of steroidogenic cord diameter and vascularization, a strong escalation of adrenaline cell number and a decrease of noradrenaline cells were observed. The notably elevated levels of adrenal hormones suggested a permanent turning on of hypothalamic corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) secretion together with a lack of the negative feedback of HPA axis, perturbing systemic responses of the organism. Our data may help to predict the biological alterations induced by NP and to extend its impact upon adrenal function.
Falco, M. de & Valiante, S. & Sciarillo, R. & Varano, L. & Laforgia, V. (2001) -
Faleschini, A. (1886) -
Fallend, S. (2007) -
Falzoi, S. (2004) -
Falzuoi, S. (2004) -
Fang, J.-J. & Tang, X.-R. (1983) -
Fang, M. & Zhu, X. & Du, Y. & Zhang, L. & Lin, L. (2019) -
Measuring climatic niche position and breadth may help to determine where species can occur over space and time. Using GIS-based and phylogenetic comparative methods, we investigated global patterns of variation in climatic niche breadth in lacertid lizards to test the following three hypotheses about climatic niche widths. First, does a species’ temperature or precipitation niche breadth relate to its temperature or precipitation niche position (the mean value of annual mean temperature or annual precipitation across sampled localities in the range of each species)? Second, are there trade-offs between a species’ temperature niche breadth and precipitation niche breadth? Third, does a species’ temperature or precipitation niche breadth relate to altitude or latitude? We expect that: (1) species distributed in cold regions are specialized for low-temperature environments (i.e. narrow niche breadth center around low temperatures); (2) a negative relationship between species niche breadth on temperature and precipitation axes according to the tradeoff hypothesis (i.e. species that tolerate a broad range of precipitation regimes cannot also tolerate a broad range of temperatures); (3) precipitation niche breadth decreases with altitude or latitude, whereas temperature climatic niche breadth increases with altitude or latitude. Based on the analytical results we found that: (1) temperature niche breadth and position are negatively related, while precipitation niche breadth and position are positively related; (2) there is no trade-off between temperature and precipitation niche breadths; and (3) temperature niche breadth and latitude/altitude are positively related, but precipitation niche breadth and latitude/altitude are not significantly related. Our results show many similarities with previous studies on climatic niche widths reported for amphibians and lizards, which provide further evidence that such macroecological patterns of variation in climatic niche breadths may be widespread.
Faraone, F.P. (2011) -
Faraone, F.P. & Lillo, F. & Lo Falvo, M. (2010) -
The Sicilian wall lizard (Podarcis waglerianus) is endemic of Sicily and six circumsicilian satellite islands. The aim of this work is the analysis of morphometric variation of micro-insular populations of the Stagnone Lagoon Archipelago which is situated along the west coast of Sicily. The analysis includes samples from the three islands where the species is present (Isola Lunga, Santa Maria, La Scola) and two “control” sites: the nearby mainland coast (Marsala) and a disjunct mainland area (Ficuzza), located about 80 km east of the lagoon. 16 morphometric characters were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and univariate and multivariate analysis. Results reveal a clear divergence between micro-insular and mainland lizards, which are very similar to each other. The variation in shape seems to follow a pattern seen in other lacertidae, with a decrease in body size in larger islands populations with the presence of predators (S. Maria and Isola Lunga) and a decrease in limb length in smaller island population with the absence of predators (La Scola).
Faraone, F.P. & Lillo, F. & Lo Valvo, M. (2010) -
The Sicilian wall lizard (Podarcis waglerianus) is endemic of Sicily and six circumsicilian satellite islands. The aim of this work is the analysis of morphometric variation of microinsular populations of the Stagnone Lagoon Archipelago which is situated along the west coast of Sicily. The analysis includes samples from the three islands where the species is present (Isola Lunga, Santa Maria, La Scola) and two “control” sites: the nearby mainland coast (Marsala) and a disjunct mainland area (Ficuzza), located about 80 km east of the lagoon. 16 morphometric characters were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and univariate and multivariate analysis. Results reveal a clear divergence between micro-insular and mainland lizards, which are very similar to each other. The variation in shape seems to follow a pattern seen in other lacertidae, with a decrease in body size in larger islands populations with the presence of predators (S. Maria and Isola Lunga) and a decrease in limb length in smaller island population with the absence of predators (La Scola).
Faraone, F.P. & Lo Valvo, M. (2006) -
Faraone, F.P. & Sindaco, R. (2016) -
Farashi, A. & Alizadeh-Noughani, M. (2019) -
Although reptiles are the most diverse group of terrestrial vertebrates, crucial data on their extinction risks are lacking. The reptile species assessed by IUCN are only a fraction of those at risk of extinction. Thus, conservation planning and management decisions are hindered by the lack of ecological information on the species’ distribution patterns and their habitat requirements. Pleske’s racerunner (Eremias pleskei) is a rare and critically endangered species known to occur exclusively in the eastern Anatolian Montane Steppe ecoregion. In this study, we used ten species distribution model algo- rithms and 62 climate change scenarios (from 19 global climate models under four representative concentration pathways) to predict future habitat suitability for Pleske’s racerunner in the Anatolian Montane Steppe ecoregion. Our results indicate that this species may in future migrate from its current distribution range towards the central and western areas of the Anatolian Montane Steppe ecoregion. Our results also show that the variation in the temperature-related variables in suitable habitats will increase in future as compared with the current conditions. It seems that due to climate change, in future, deserts will be appropriate for this species. The same mechanisms, however, will make some of its current habitats unsuitable. Dealing with uncertainties in climate change and species distribution modeling is a major challenge when planning strategies for species’ conservation. We recommend conservation measures to be implemented to make sure that E. pleskei’s current habitats are suitable for it also in future.
Faria, J.F. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. (2021) -
Three related and morphologically similar small Psammodromus species (P. hispanicus complex) occur in the Iberian Peninsula and Mediterranean France, Psammodromus hispanicus, Psammodromus occidentalis, and Psammodromus edwarsianus. Despite recent works, overall ranges of the species remain partially uncertain, in particular for Westernmost part of Iberia and South-western France. Here we include data from 15 additional specimens that were sequenced for part of the mitochon-drial gene Cytochrome b to allow comparison with published data. We provide genetic confirma-tion that P. edwarsianus is the species of the complex occurring in France, and that P. occidentalis occurs on coastal and inland Portugal. Within P. occidentalis notable diversity occurs for this marker, which warrants further investigation. Some areas, particularly southern Portugal, still need assessment to clarify the distribution of these mostly cryptic species across the region.
Faria, J.F. & Harris, D.J. (2020) -
Currently, two subspecies of Psammodromus algirus are typically considered in Morocco ― P. algirus algirusand P. algirus nollii –, while a third form “ketamensis” is generally identified as a morphotype. However, this classification is based on colouration differences, and has not been assessed using genetic data, as the previously conducted biogeographic studies included only specimens from the range of P. algirus algirus. In order to better assess phylogeographic patterns within the species we sequenced a nuclear and a mitochondrial marker from Moroccan individuals, including samples from within the “nollii” range, and combined this with previously published data, predominantly from the Iberian Peninsula. No genetic evidence to support the separation of the Moroccan P. algirus in two distinct subspecies was found. Unlike most other studies of reptiles from this region, the identified diversity appears to have little or no corresponding geographical structuring, possibly due to the generalist nature of the species
Farina Trujillo, B. & Arechavaleta Hernandez, M. (2014) -
Fariña, B. & Aguilar, N. (2003) -
Farina, B. & Albaladejo, G. & Arechavaleta, M. (2014) -
Gallotia galloti insulanagae is a subspecies inhabiting exclusively the islet of “Roque de Fuera de Anaga” (Tenerife, Canary Islands). Here we provide data on biometry, population dynamics and abundance. We also include a description of the environment where it lives and trophic resources available. This subespecies was described in 1985. It differs from that of northern Tenerife because of its melanism and larger size. Ist habitat presents a low floral diversity and an abundant presence of marine birds. We have conducted census to estimate the population size in several campaigns. The population size is estimated in 350 specimens on the whole “Roque”, with an approximate density of 200 individuals per hectare. This density is higher than that observed for other lizards inhabiting similar environments. In spite of its isolation and apparent resource scarcity, the general status of the population is adequate. Furthermore, the sex ratio is close to one.
Fariña, B. & Arechavaleta, M. (2002) -
Farina, B. & Martin, A. (2013) -
Fariña, B. & Rodríguez, L. & López, M.R. & Moreno, J.E. (2011) -
Farkas, B. & Buzás, B. (1997) -
Farkas, B. & Buzás, B. & Farkas, V. (2018) -
Farren, A. & Prodöhl, P.A. & Laming, P. & Reid, N. (2010) -
The common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) is Ireland`s only native reptile, forming a key part of the island`s biodiversity. However, there is a general paucity of distributional and abundance data for the species. In this study, we collated incidental records for common lizard sightings to define the distribution of the species in Northern Ireland. Maximum entropy modelling was employed to describe species-habitat associations. The resulting predicted landscape favourability was used to evaluate the current status of the species based on the distribution of its maximum potential range in relation to the degree of fragmentation of remaining suitable habitat. In common with previous studies in the Republic of Ireland, sightings were highly clustered indicating under-recording, observer bias, and fragmentation of suitable habitat. A total of 98 records were collated from 1905 to 2009. The species was recorded in 63 (ca. 34%) of 186 × 10 km Northern Irish grid squares. Lizard occurrence was strongly and positively associated with landscapes dominated by heathland, bog and coastal habitats. The single best approximating model correctly classified the presence of lizards in 84.2% of cases. Upland heath, lowland raised bog and sand dune systems are all subject to Habitat Action Plans in Northern Ireland and are threatened by conversion to agriculture, afforestation, invasive species encroachment and infrastructural development. Consequently, remaining common lizard populations are likely to be small, isolated and highly fragmented. Establishment of an ecological network to preserve connectivity of remaining heath and bog will not only benefit remaining common lizard populations but biodiversity in general.
Fasola, E. (2008) -
Fasola, E. & Biaggini, M. & Ortiz-Santaliestra, M.E. & Costal, S. & Santos, B. & Lopes, I. & Corti, C. (2021) -
Despite the importance of reptiles in agroecosystems, little is known about the efects of agricultural intensifcation and pesticide use on these animals. We compared antioxidant and haematological biomarkers in the wild Italian wall lizards Podarcis siculus from three olive groves representing a gradient of management intensity. Lizards from the conventional grove showed induced antioxidant defences relative to those from the organic feld. However, this induction did not avoid the occurrence of oxidative stress in males from intensively managed olive groves, who showed TBARS levels 58%–133% higher than males from the other sites. Haematological responses also suggested increased stress in females from the intensively managed olive groves, with a heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio 5.3 to 14.8-fold higher than in the other sites. The observed stress responses of lizards along the studied gradient of agricultural management suggest their potential usefulness as non destructive biomarkers to environmental stressors associated with agricultural intensifcation.
Fasola, E. & Costa, S. & Santos, B. & Biaggini, M. & Deli, G. & Corti, C. & Ortiz-Santaliestra, M. & Lopes, I. (2016) -
Lizard species inhabiting agroecosystems may experience stress associated with agricultural management, like habitat destruction and pesticides, which may affect animals’ health. Blood cells variability can be interpreted as an early response to stress. Accordingly, this work intended to assess the influence of differently managed fields in the blood cell counts of two lizard species: Podarcis muralis and Podarcis siculus. For this, organisms were captured from three olive orchards with different intensification degrees (organic farming, lightly managed and intensively managed), and from a conventional vineyard, all located in the same agricultural area at Montepaldi, Florence, central Italy. Individuals’ blood, collected from the caudal vein, was used to prepare smears. White blood cells (WBC) were counted by determining the abundance of each class: agranulocytes (lymphocytes, monocytes) and granulocytes (heterophils, eosinophils, neutrophils, basophils). A less- than-significant tendency in WBC reduction from reference (organic olive orchards) to intensively managed fields was observed, especially for lymphocytes. Sex-dependent differences were found; in both species, males showed larger heterophil values and neutrophil percentages than females. But, when comparing the two species, independently of the sampling site, they did not show significant differences, except for absolute basophil counts and basophil percentages, which resulted higher in P. siculus than in P. muralis. Haemo-parasitic load was higher in P. muralis than in P. siculus, and it also differed among sites, being highest in individuals from the organic farming site. Parasite load was related to the number of granulocytes, as expected, considering that these cells acts against that kind of infections. Despite this, major differences in WBC counts in individuals of the genus Podarcis, were driven by variation of agranulocytes rather than granulocyte cells. Further research is necessary to increase sample size in order to confirm the observed trend in total WBC reduction in individuals living in agriculture-managed fields.
Fasola, E. & Scali, S. & Ferraguti, M. (2016) -
Fasolo, A. & Franzoni, M.F. (1983) -
An analysis of the preoptic area of the lizard, Lacerta sicula R., with the use of the Golgi method revealed that: 1)in principle, the dendritic pattern of its neurons is relatively simple; 2) the supraoptic nucleus contains large- to medium-sized bipolar or multipolar neurons together with small, usually multipolar nerve cells; 3) the preoptic periventricular gray and the paraventricular nucleus exhibit a varied neuronal typology, including large multipolar or bipolar elements, abundant CSF-contacting neurons, and some tufted elements; and 4) the lateral regions display some conspicuous multipolar neurons.
Fasolo, A. & Gaudino, G. (1982) -
Somatostatin-like (SRIF) immunoreactivity was shown in the preoptic area and posterior hypothalamus of lizard (Lacerta sicula R.), using both indirect immunofluorescence and PAP-technique. Immunoreactive neurons are seen in the preoptic paraventricular nucleus, in the caudal hypothalamus, and close to the hypophysial recess where they form a massive group of cerebrospinal-fluid-contacting elements. SRIF-immunoreactive fibers are seen also in the outer zone of the median eminence. Employing double-staining methods (double peroxidase-antiperoxidase sequence, according to Vandesande and Dierickx ((1976) Cell Tissue Res. 175, 289-296) and PAP-immunofluorescence) the immunoreactivity for SRIF was separated from that for neurophysins.
Fathnia, B. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Sampour, M. & Bahrami, A.M. & Jaafari, G. (2009) -
Western Iran in general and Ilam province in particular, has unique geographical and climatic conditions that support a rich flora and fauna. In view of the lack of in-depth studies of lizards of the region, an investigation was initiated in most areas of Ilam Province for an inventory of lizard species and their habitats. A total of 189 specimens were collected and identified from May 2005 to August 2009. Twenty one species belonging to 18 genera and 8 families were represented, including Agamidae: Laudakia nupta, Trapelus lessonae (formerly T. ruderatus), Trapelus ruderatus (formerly T. persicus); Eublepharidae: Eublepharis angramainyu; Gekkonidae: Bunopus tuberculatus, Cyrtopodion scabrum, Cyrtopodion heterocercum, Hemidactylus persicus, Stenodactylus affinis, Tropiocolotes helenae; Lacertidae: Acanthodactylus boskianus, Apathya cappadocica, Mesalina brevirostris, Ophisops elegans; Phyllodactylidae: Asaccus elisae; Scincidae: Ablepharus pannonicus, Eumeces schneiderii, Trachylepis aurata, Trachylepis vittata; Uromastycidae: Uromastyx loricatus; Varanidae: Varanus griseus griseus, Varanus griseus caspius. Comparing this list to the data provided by Anderson (1999), several lizards are reported for the first time in this region. With six species represented, gekkonids have the highest species diversity in the area.
Fattahi, R. & Sajed, H. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2017) -
In this study, the adult cranial osteology of Trachylepis vittata and Lacerta media media collected from Kermanshah Province, western Iran, are described and compared based on seven dry skull preparations. Herein, variation patterns are considered in morphology of the cranial, elements of position in the skull structure and elements of connection together between the skull of two species in order to use in phylogenetic analyses and systematic studies. The skull roof, the palate, the mandible, the teeth within each of these two species discussed and compared. The obvious differences are as follows: A complete loss of any one bone was not discerned in the study of the skull of both species, but a obvious decrease was watched in the postorbital bones in T. vittata. Articulations of the jugal, the squamosal and the palatine in the various regions. The variations in form, size and position in bones such as: The nasal processes of the premaxilla, the parietal, the supraoccipital, otoccipital, the paraoccipital process, prearticular, the dentary.
Fattizzo, T. & Marzano, G. (2002) -
The present paper shows the results deriving from an eleven-year research (1990-2000) on the Salento herpetofauna (S.E. Italy). The methodology used in compiling the atlas, based on computerized archives (Excel 2000‚) stored in data bank is explained. The cartographic reference for topographic data is IGMI 1:500.000 map; the UTM (10x10 km square grid system) used in drawing out the maps of herpetological data is based on this reference. Six amphibian and nineteen reptile species have been counted in the census, twenty of these are autochtonous, two were newly introduced and acclimatised, three are marine turtles. Of the autochtonous species, 20,0% are Euroasiatic, 30,0% are Mediterranean, 40% are European and 10,0% are endemic.
Fattorini, S. (2010) -
The herpetofauna of the Tuscan Islands (Central Italy) is well known and represents an ideal subject to understand the role of current and historical factors responsible for biogeographical patterns in a complex archipelago. Multidimensional Scaling, cluster analyses, species-area relationships, Mantel tests and co-occurrence statistics were used to investigate the influence of current geography and Pleistocene connections with the mainland on the structure of insular communities. Although reptile colonization likely occurred via land bridges for islands that were connected to the mainland in the Pleistocene, a long time relaxation (species extinction by island habitat loss after disconnection and new colonization by over sea dispersal or human-assisted introductions) equilibrated the faunas according to island area. Biogeographical similarities among islands increased for islands located farther from Corsica and Tuscany, thus suggesting that, for remote islands, interisland faunal exchanges occurred more frequently than mainland-island colonization. Also, a possible influence of Pleistocene geography emerged more clearly when populations suspected to be introduced by man were removed. Co-occurrence analyses indicated a nonrandom distribution influenced by island area and distance, suggesting that the time elapsed since post-Pleistocene disconnection may have reshaped biogeographical similarities by an increase in competition resulting from reduction in island areas and introduction of certain species. From a conservation viewpoint, the land-bridge distribution of organisms with poor mobility should be carefully considered in conservation biogeography, because depletion of island populations cannot be balanced by new immigrations from the mainland, whereas introduction of nonnative species may have a negative impact on the original fauna.
Favilli, L. & Piazzini, S. & Manganelli, G. (2001) -
New data on the distribution of amphibians and reptiles of conservation interest in southern Tuscany. The amphibian and reptile fauna native to southern Tuscany inclu des 31 species (13 amphibians and 18 reptiles), most of which are protected under the Habitats Directive (EEC Directive 43/1992, ratified by Italy with DPR 357/1997) and by the recent Tuscan Regional Law on biodiversity (LR 56/2000). Seventeen species are of particular significance and their conservation warrants or may require designation of Special Conservation Zones or Sites of Regional Importance. In this note, new data is provided on the distribution of eleven of these species (Salamandra salamandra, Salamandrina terdigitata, Triturus alpestris, Triturus carmfex, Bombina vanegata, Bufo viridis, Rana italica, Coronella austriaca, Coronella girondica, Elaphe quatuonlineata and Natrix tessellata) which considerably increases the number of 10 x 10 km squares of the UTM grid in which these species are present in southern Tuscany.
Favorito, R. & Consiglio Grimaldi, M. & Coppola, M. & Ferrandino, I. (2010) -
Reptiles are rarely used in studies on the possible toxic effects of heavy metals even if they are susceptible to the accumulation of persistent pollution due also to their presence in a variety of habitats. Cadmium is a heavy metal, a significant environmental pollutant and an endocrine disruptor. Therefore the aim of this study was to analyze the cytotoxic effects of cadmium on the pituitary gland of the lizard Podarcis sicula after an acute exposure to this metal. The analysis were carried out after 2, 7 and 16 days following the intraperitoneal injection of a single and massive dose of cadmium chloride. The pituitary glands were analyzed by histological and immuhistochemical stains. Besides cadmium accumulation in brain was measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. Cadmium concentration increased in lizard brain lightly after 2 days and widely after 16 days. The tissue of the pituitary gland appeared slightly atrophied in a few areas only at 7 and 16 days after treatment. Moreover an increase in intensity of immunostaining and occurrence of some adenohypophyseal cells was revealed respect to control lizards. This evidence suggests an inhibitory effect of cadmium on the normal hormonal secretion. Evidently an acute cadmium exposure in P. sicula involves the accumulation of this metal in the brain but also the alteration of the normal endocrine function of the pituitary gland.
Favorito, R. & Cammisa, G. & Grimaldi, M.C. & Ferrandino, I. (2010) -
Il nonilfenolo (NP) e un prodotto chimico che fa parte di una serie di sostanze eterogenee definite Distruttori Endocrini (ED). Il suo ampio impiego industriale giustifica l’attuale interesse circa le possibili ripercussioni sulla salute dell’uomo. Diversi studi riportano l’azione simil-estrogenica del nonilfenolo sulle cellule gonadotrope; poco e invece riportato circa la sua azione sulle altre cellule adenoipofisarie. Pertanto nel presente lavoro riportiamo le osservazioni isto-morfologiche relative all’azione del nonilfenolo sulle cellule corticotrope (ACTH) dell’ipofisi in Podarcis siculus, importante bioindicatore. Lo studio e stato condotto su due gruppi di lucertole, uno sottoposto ad iniezioni quotidiane intraperitoneali protratte per 12 giorni di 4-para-nonilfenolo 1/100 della dose letale media (LD50) per i topi e l’altro di controllo. Attraverso colorazioni istologiche si e osservato che l’ipofisi degli animali trattati non subisce particolari alterazioni morfologiche. Le cellule ad ACTH, rivelate mediante la tecnica immunoistochimica ABC, invece aumentano in quantita e compaiono anche nella zona caudale dove sono normalmente assenti. L’azione tossica del nonilfenolo evidentemente non si limita, cosi come ad oggi riportato in letteratura, alle sole cellule gonadotrope ma si estende anche sulle cellule ad ACTH, su cui e utile pertanto condurre ulteriori studi.
Favorito, R. & Monaco, A. & Grimaldi, M.C. & Ferrandino, I. (2017) -
The glial cells are positioned to be the first cells of the brain parenchyma to face molecules crossing the blood-brain barrier with a relevant neuroprotective role from cytotoxic action of heavy metals on the nervous system. Cadmium is a highly toxic metal and its levels in the environment are increasing due to industrial activities. This element can pass the blood-brain barrier and have neurotoxic activity. For this reason we have studied the effects of cadmium on the glial architecture in the lizard Podarcis siculus, a significant bioindicator of chemical exposure due to its persistence in a variety of habitats. The study was performed on two groups of lizards. The first group of P. siculus was exposed to an acute treatment by a single i.p. injection (2 mg/kg-BW) of CdCl2 and sacrificed after 2, 7 and 16 days. The second one was used as control. The histology of the brain was studied by Hematoxylin/Eosin and Cresyl/Violet stains while the glial structures were analyzed by immunodetection of the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), the most widely accepted marker for astroglial cells. Evident morphological alterations of the brain were observed at 7 and 16 days from the injection, when we revealed also a decrease of the GFAP-immunopositive structures in particular in the rhombencephalic ventricle, telencephalon and optic tectum. These results show that in the lizards an acute exposure to cadmium provokes morphological cellular alterations in the brain but also a decrement of the expression of GFAP marker with possible consequent damage of glial cells functions.
Fearnley, H. (2002) -
Fearnley, H. (2009) -
The sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) is a rare, elusive and cryptic reptile species of conservation importance in the UK. Knowledge of its ecology and behaviour has limited the development of a reliable and effective methodology for population monitoring; this threatens to compromise conservation effort. The behaviour of sand lizards varies seasonally, with sex and with environmental conditions, none of which are fully understood. This aim of this thesis is to further our ecological knowledge of the sand lizard, specifically by investigating factors which influence the detection probability of this species and through exploration of population monitoring and estimation methods. The detection rate of both male and female lizards in a captive population was found to be heavily dependent on their sex and reproductive stage. The detection probability of males was higher (39%) before mating than after mating (33%): with pre-mated males this was strongly associated with temperature and time of day; and with post-mated males it was linked to changeable conditions with solar radiation values between 200-700Wm-2. The detection probabilities of females were higher after mating (40%) than before (25%) with additional variations in detection rate during and after egg laying. Pre-mated females were most commonly observed basking in a preferred range of ultra-violet light and post-mated they favoured conditions where the ground surface temperature ranged between 17.5oC and 27.5oC. An intensive capture-mark-recapture study was performed on independent sand lizard populations and pattern matching software was used to assist with the identification of individual sand lizards from their dorsal patterning. The low recapture rate of sand lizards proved problematic and population estimates were generated using Program MARK following amalgamation of the data from each field season: but this nonetheless generated the first estimates of sand lizard populations in the UK, with a maximum mean density of 222Ha-2. The survivorship of males was consistently higher than females (0.67 vs. 0.26) and the detection rates and populations estimates differed between years. A high number of individuals were encountered only once, resulting in wide confidence limits of abundance estimates for this species. The range of microclimates available within a structurally diverse array of heathland vegetation were quantified and found to be more extensive than previously thought. The range of microhabitats within the preferred temperature range for sand lizards increased from Spring to Summer, so the need for a lizard to be in the open, and thus available for detection decreased. The obstacles encountered when attempting to monitor sand lizards populations arise from the unpredictable nature of the species. Future sand lizard surveys should be conducted at times when the detection probability maximised, as described in this thesis. A national monitoring scheme should steer away from absolute abundance estimates of populations and consider the use of occupancy estimation to monitor our remaining populations.
Fearnley, H. & Hudson, M. & Allen, J. & Gleed-Owen, C. (2007) -
Fearnley, H. & Hudson, M. & Woodfine, T. & Gleed-Owen, C. (2007) -
Febrer Serra, M. et al. (2023) -
En las últimas décadas se han introducido tres especies de serpientes en las Islas Baleares a través del comercio de viveros desde la Península Ibérica, su área de distribución nativa. La culebra de escalera Zamenis scalaris fue citada por primera vez en 2006 en Formentera, la culebra de herradura Hemorrhois hippocrepis en 2003 en Ibiza y la culebra bastarda Malpolon monspessulanus en 2006 en Mallorca. Actualmente, cualquier especie de la familia Colubridae que habita en Ibiza y Formentera es considerada legalmente invasora. Desde 2016, en estas dos islas se llevan a cabo campañas de control y erradicación mediante trampas cebadas con ratones vivos. Por el contrario, las especies de serpientes exóticas que habitan en Mallorca no son consideradas legalmente invasoras. En este caso, campañas de control y erradicación a pequeña escala se iniciaron en Mallorca en 2017. En el presente trabajo se resumen los estudios realizados en relación con la monitorización e impacto de estas especies en las islas de Ibiza, Formentera y Mallorca. Los resultados sugieren que el proceso de invasión se ha completado con éxito para H. hippocrepis y Z. scalaris, ya que ambas especies están bien establecidas en Ibiza y Formentera, respectivamente. La combinación de introducciones múltiples, un potencial reproductivo elevado, la gran plasticidad trófica y su adaptación climática habrían contribuido al proceso de invasión. En cuanto a M. monspessulanus, aún no se ha descrito su completa expansión en Mallorca aunque se ha comprobado su naturalización. Sin embargo, rasgos como la eurifagia y la capacidad adaptación a ecosistemas alterados, sugieren una muy probable expansión por toda la isla en el futuro. Entre los impactos se han detectado respuestas antidepredatorias comportamentales y fisiológicas de la salamanquesa común Tarentola mauritanica expuesta al olor de H. hippocrepis, hecho que evidenció que reconoce las señales químicas de la culebra de herradura. La legislación actual se ha mostrado ineficaz en cuanto a la prevención y la aplicación de protocolos de rápida actuación contra estas especies. Sin embargo, se cree que la fuerte presión de captura desde 2016 ha provocado una disminución de las densidades de población, especialmente de Z. scalaris en Formentera. El presente trabajo sugiere propuestas adicionales para gestionar las poblaciones de serpientes establecidas en las Islas Baleares y también para prevenir futuras introducciones tanto de éstas como de otras especies.
Federschmidt, A. (1989) -
Fedier, M. (2015) -
Mit Hilfe von Feldaufnahmen wurde im Jahr 2011 die Verbreitung der Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) im oberen Urner Reusstal sowie im Maderanertal und im gebiet Arni dokumentiert um zu überprüfen, ob sich die Art in diesem gebiet in den letzten Jahren ausbreiten konnte. Zudem wurden die Habitatpräferenzen der Art untersucht. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die Mauereidechse das Gebiet von Amsteg bis Wassen beinahe flächendeckend besiedelt. Weit verbreitet ist die Art darüber hinaus im Maderanertal. Dort befindet sich zwischen Golzern und Waldiberg der höchst gelegene Fundort auf ca. 1.500 m ü.M. Isolierte Vorkommen finden sich zudem auf Arne. Am häufigsten werden Trockenmauern and anthropogene Steinfluren als Lebensraum genutzt. Derzeit kann nicht entschieden werden, ob sich die Mauereidechse tatsächlich ausgebreitet hat. Für eine gesicherte Aussage sind zu wenig historische Date vorhanden. Einige Fundorte wurden dokumentiert, die in der Literatur bislang keine Erwähnung fanden.
Fedorov, A.N. & Fedorova, L.V. & Grechko, V.V. & Ryabinin, D.M. & Sheremet`eva, V.A. & Bannikova, A.A. & Lomov, A.A. & Ryskov, A.P. & Darevsky, I.S. (1999) -
A specially optimized restriction analysis of highly repetitive DNA elements, called DNA taxonprint, was applied for phylogenetic study of primates and lizards. It was shown that electrophoretic bands of DNA repeats revealed by the taxonprint technique have valuable properties for molecular systematics. Approximately half of taxonprint bands (TB) are invariable and do not disappear from the genomes during evolution or change spontaneously. Presumably these invariable bands are restriction fragments of dispersed DNA repeats. Another group represents variable taxonprint bands that differ even between closely related species. These variable bands are probably represented by tandem DNA repeats and could be used as species-specific markers. It was shown that taxonprint bands are independent characters since the appearance of a new taxonprint band does not change the previous band pattern. Phylogenetic reconstruction carried out on taxonprint data demonstrated that this approach could be of general utility for molecular systematics and species identification.
Fei, T. (2013) -
Fei, T. & Skidmore, A.K. & Venus, V. & Wang, T. & Schlerf, M. & Toxopeus, B. & Overjijk, S. van & Bian, M. & Liu, Y. (2012) -
A physically based model was built to predict the transient body temperature of lizards in a thermally heterogeneous environment. Six heat transfer terms were taken into account in this model: solar radiation, convective heat flow, longwave radiation, conductive heat flow, metabolic heat gain and respiratory energy loss. In order to enhance the model predictive power, a Monte Carlo simulation was employed to calibrate the bio-physical parameters of the target animal. Animal experiments were conducted to evaluate the calibrated body temperature model in a terrarium under a controlled thermal environment. To avoid disturbances of the animal, thermal infrared imagers were used to measure the land surface temperature and the body temperature. The results showed that the prediction accuracy of lizard`s transient temperature was substantially increased by the use of Monte Carlo techniques (RMSE=0.59 °C) compared to standard model parameterization (RMSE=1.35 °C). Because the model calibration technique presented here is based on physical principles, it should be also useful in more complex, field situations.
Fei, T. & Skidmore, A.K. & Venus, V. & Wang, T. & Toxopeus, B. & Bian, M. & Liu, Y. (2012) -
Understanding behavioural thermoregulation and its consequences is a central topic in ecology. In this study, a spatial explicit model was developed to simulate the movement and thermal habitat use of lizards in a controlled environment. The model incorporates a lizard`s transient body temperatures with a cellular automaton (CA) algorithm and links the physiology knowledge of the animal with the spatial utilization of its microhabitat. The model assumed that a lizard tries to maintain its preferred body temperature in a dynamic thermal environment by continuously selecting positions with different thermal conditions. The sequence of chosen positions formed a chain defining the individual`s path, to be later aggregated into a map of thermal habitat use. An experiment was designed to test the model. An ocellated lizard (Timonlepidus) was kept in a terrarium with controlled dynamic thermal environment, and the thermal environment as well as the movement of the lizard were recorded by a variety of sensors. The model was tested to predict the spatial utilization of a lizard`s thermal habitat in the terrarium based on three categories: high, moderate and low occupancy. The simulated results were compared with observations from the animal experiment. The predicted overall pattern of the micro-habitat occupancy of the lizard within 4 days matched the observation, at an overall accuracy of 75.7%. The results suggest that thermal habitat use by lizards in a controlled environment may be predicted by the integrated model of the lizard`s body temperature and the CA algorithm.
Feider, Z. & Solomon, L. (1958) -
Feiner, N. & Rago, A. & While, G.M. & Uller, O.T. (2002) -
Populations adapting independently to the same environment provide important insights into the repeatability of evolution at different levels of biological organization. In the 20th century, common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) from southern and western Europe were introduced to England, north of their native range. Non-native populations of both lineages have adapted to the shorter season and lower egg incubation temperature by increasing the absolute rate of embryonic development. Here we tested if this adaptation is accompanied by signatures of directional selection in the transcriptomes of early embryos and, if so, if non-native populations show adaptive convergence. Embryos from non-native populations exhibited gene expression profiles consistent with directional selection following introduction, but different genes were affected in the two lineages. Despite this, the functional enrichment of genes that changed their expression following introduction showed substantial similarity between lineages, and was consistent with mechanisms that should promote developmental rate. Moreover, the divergence between non-native and native populations was enriched for genes that were temperature-responsive in native populations. These results indicate that small populations are able to adapt to new climatic regimes, but the means by which they do so may largely be determined by founder effects and other sources of genetic drift.
Feiner, N. & Rago, A. & While, G.M. & Uller, O.T. (2017) -
Many features of the development of reptiles are affected by temperature, but very little is known about how incubation temperature affects gene expression. Here, we provide a detailed case study of gene expression profiles in common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) embryos developing at stressfully low (15°C) versus benign (24°C) temperature. For maximum comparability between the two temperature regimes, we selected a precise developmental stage early in embryogenesis defined by the number of somites. We used a split‐clutch design and lizards from four different populations to evaluate the robustness of temperature‐responsive gene expression profiles. Embryos incubated at stressfully low incubation temperature expressed on average 20% less total RNA than those incubated at benign temperatures, presumably reflecting lower rates of transcription at cool temperature. After normalizing for differences in total amounts of input RNA, we find that approximately 50% of all transcripts show significant expression differences between the two incubation temperatures. Transcripts with the most extreme changes in expression profiles are associated with transcriptional and translational regulation and chromatin remodeling, suggesting possible epigenetic mechanisms underlying acclimation of early embryos to cool temperature. We discuss our findings in light of current advances in the use of transcriptomic data to study how individuals acclimatize and populations adapt to thermal stress.
Feiner, N. & Uller, T. & Abalos, J. & Meier, J. (2025) -
We present a genome assembly from a female specimen of Podarcis filfolensis (Maltese wall lizard; Chordata; Lepidosauria; Squamata; Lacertidae). The assembly contains two haplotypes with total lengths of 1,506.95 megabases and 1,404.02 megabases. Most of haplotype 1 (98.73%) is scaffolded into 20 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the W and Z sex chromosomes. Haplotype 2 was assembled to scaffold level. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled, with a length of 17.23 kilobases.
Feiner, N. & Uller, T. & Aubret, F. (2016) -
Feiner, N. & While, G. & Uller, T. (2016) -
Oviparous lizards that bury their eggs in the ground require a certain range of soil-temperature for successful hatching. Wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) from Italy and France have recently been introduced to the UK, where embryos have to cope with drastically colder soil temperatures compared to their native range. Incubation experiments have demonstrated that lizards introduced from France and Italy have evolved faster developmental rates at low temperatures compared to their native counterparts. To understand the mechanisms underlying this accelerated developmental rate, we set out to analyse gene expression in wall lizard embryos. We applied a split-clutch experiment with native and introduced lizards of both French and Italian origin, and incubated eggs at either cold or warm temperatures. Embryos were collected at a precisely defined developmental stage (limb-bud stage) and subjected to RNA sequencing. Transcriptomes were assembled de novo and expression levels for 14,000 transcripts were assessed and compared among the 48 samples. Using this dataset, we addressed the following questions: (1) Is there convergence in gene expression between the independently introduced populations? (2) Do these genes show an ancestral temperature responsiveness in their expression? Our results show that introduced wall lizards from Italy and France have convergently evolved regulatory changes in response to cool incubation conditions. Transcripts that show ancestral plasticity in native populations are particularly likely to show evolutionary responses. Thus, our study indicates that adaptation to cold climate is likely to capitalize on environmentally responsive genes, but also that genes that ancestrally are constituently expressed quickly can become regulated by temperature.
Fejervary, G.F. (1914) -
Fejérváry, G.J. (1920) -
Fejérváry, G.J. (1923) -
Fejervary, G.J. (1924) -
Fejérváry, G.J. (1936) -
Fejervary, G.J. v. (1909) -
Fejervary, G.J. v. (1914) -
Fejervary, G.J. v. (1917) -
Fejérváry, G.J. von (1911) -
Fejervary, G.J. von (1920) -
Fejervaryi, G.J. (1915) -
Fejervaryi, G.J. v. (1914) -
Feldmeier, S. & Schmidt, B.R. & Zimmermann, N.E. & Veith, M. & Ficetola, G.F. & Lötters, S. (2020) -
Aim: Climate change is expected to cause mountain species to shift their ranges to higher elevations. Due to the decreasing amounts of habitats with increasing eleva tion, such shifts are likely to increase their extinction risk. Heterogeneous mountain topography, however, may reduce this risk by providing microclimatic conditions that can buffer macroclimatic warming or provide nearby refugia. As aspect strongly influences the local microclimate, we here assess whether shifts from warm southexposed aspects to cool north-exposed aspects in response to climate change can compensate for an upward shift into cooler elevations. Location: Switzerland, Swiss Alps. Methods: We built ensemble distribution models using high-resolution climate data for two mountain-dwelling viviparous ectotherms, the Alpine salamander and the Common lizard, and projected them into various future scenarios to gain insights into distributional changes. We further compared elevation and aspect (northness) of current and predicted future locations to analyse preferences and future shifts. Results: Future ranges were consistently decreasing for the lizard, but for the salamander they were highly variable, depending on the climate scenario and threshold rule. Aspect preferences were elevation-dependent: warmer, south-exposed microclimates were clearly preferred at higher compared to lower elevations. In terms of presence and future locations, we observed both elevational upward shifts and northward shifts in aspect. Under future conditions, the shift to cooler north-exposed aspects was particularly pronounced at already warmer lower elevations. Main conclusions: For our study species, shifts in aspect and elevation are complementary strategies to mitigate climatic warming in the complex mountain topography. This complements the long-standing view of elevational upward shift being their only option to move into areas with suitable future climate. High-resolution climate data are critical in heterogeneous environments to identify microrefugia and thereby improving future impact assessments of climate change.
Felix, J. & Grabulosa, I. (1980) -
Felix, L.S. (1970) -
Felke, M. (2005) -
Fellenberg, W. (1983) -
Zur Artmonographie der Zauneidechse in der kürzlich erschienenen „Herpetofauna` Westfalens (FELDMANN 1981) seien hier einige - teils berichtigende - Ergänzungen anhand bislang unveröffentlichten Materials aus der Artenkartei des Verfassers mitgeteilt, die sich allesamt, sofern nicht anders vermerkt, auf das Südwestfälische Bergland beziehen. Die Notwendigkeit solcher Ergänzungen bedeutet kein negatives Werturteil. Es ist ein bezeichnendes Merkmal aller Regionalfaunen, so auch dieser m.E. hervorragend gelungenen Herpetofauna, permanent ergänzungsbedürftig zu sein.
Feng, Y. & Zhao, W.G. (2010) -
Observation and dissection of the urogenital system of an adult Lacerta vivipara was conducted.The results showed that:the excretory system was composed of kidney,ureter and cloaca,the kidney on the left side of the body was bigger than the one on the right side;the reproductive system of adult male L.vivipara was composed of the testis,spermaduct,epididymis,and hemipenis;the left spermary of the male was bigger and slightly closer to the head than the right spermary.The reproductive system of the adult female was composed of an ovary and oviduct.The size of the ovary on the left side of the body was the same as the one on the right side,whereas the left ovary was higher than the right one.During the reproductive period,the L.vivipara`s sex gland became obviously larger than the same sex gland after the reproductive period.Besides,the reproductive system of L.vivipara was similar to these of other oviparous and ovoviviparous lizards.
Feng, Z. & Sun, J. & Zhao, Y. & Lui, C. (2005) -
冯照军 孙建梅 赵彦禹 刘缠民 (2005) -
山地麻蜥主要栖息在市郊海拔大于100 m的山丘上部及山顶.研究结果表明,山地麻蜥正常密度大约为1只/100 m2,其数量与山丘土石状况、植被盖度及海拔高度有一定关系,与植被类型关系不大.山地麻蜥似乎有一定的`护洞`行为.主食昆虫和蜘蛛,春季食物生态位宽度大于秋季,食物生态位重叠度为0.61.性比变化较大,出蛰初期和冬眠前期雄多雌少;而5~10月份期间,性比接近1.幼体至成体发育期间,雄性生长快于雌性;但成年期后,雌性头体部分的生长快于雄性,可能与怀卵有关.山地麻蜥种群可分为4个年龄组,个体数量比约为幼年:亚成年:成年A:成年B≈1.8:1.9:3.1:1,但成体与非成体的数量比约为1.2:1,应属于稳定型种群.个体自然寿命约为5.5~6周年.人类干扰是山地麻蜥种群下降的原因之一.
Fennell, S. & Ferner, J.W. (2009) -
Fenske, R. (1993) -
Fenske, R. (2003) -
Fenske, R. & Helmdag, A. (1993) -
Fenske, R. & Kretzmar, K. (1993) -
Fenske, R. & Kretzmar, K. (1994) -
Ferchaud, A.L. & Eudeline, R. & Arnal, V. & Cheylan, M. & Pottier, G. & Leblois, R. & Crochet, P.-A. (2015) -
Historical factors, current population size, population connectivity and selective processes at linked loci contribute to shaping contemporary patterns of neutral genetic diversity. It is now widely acknowledged that nuclear and mitochondrial markers react differently to current demography as well as to past history, so the use of both types of markers is often advocated to gain insight on both historical and contemporary processes. We used 12 microsatellite loci genotyped in 13 populations of a mountain lizard (Iberolacerta bonnali) to test whether the historical scenario favoured by a previous mitochondrial study was also supported by nuclear markers and thereby evaluated the consequences of postglacial range movements on nuclear diversity. Congruent signals of recent history were revealed by nuclear and mitochondrial markers using an Approximate Bayesian computation approach, but contemporary patterns of mtDNA and nuclear DNA diversity were radically different. Although dispersal in this species is probably highly restricted at all spatial scales, colonization abilities have been historically good, suggesting capability for reestablishment of locally extinct populations except in fully disconnected habitats.
Ferenc, B. & Balázs, V. (2012) -
Fernandes, J. & Petrucci-Fonseca, F. & Santos-Reis, M. & Rosalino, L.M. (2019) -
Mediterranean European landscapes have been shaped by human activities for centuries, particularly by livestock and farming. Traditionally managed montado landscapes have been recognized as having a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, providing habitat complexity and thus, ecological conditions for a variety of species. Biodiversity associated with montado can only be maintained under specific agricultural practices, with the intensification or abandonment of such practices posing serious threats for wildlife. Despite the high number of reptile species endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, research on the influence of agroforestry management practices on these species has been scarce. The mediterranean lizard Psammodromus algirus is a generalist species that responds to changes in the structure and quality of microhabitats, specifically the shrub layer, which is greatly affects by changes in cattle grazing intensity. In this study, we assessed how grazing affects the frequency of occurrence of P. algirus in a Mediterranean landscape dominated by montado. We detected that areas of intermediate age regarding grazing exclusion support higher lizard abundance, with P. algirus abundance being limited by vegetation structure and solar radiation. Thus, we may infer that the vegetation structure regulatory role of cattle will affect this lizard’s abundance, limiting it indirectly. We suggest that the maintenance of adequate traditional management, allowing the grazing pressure at low to moderate levels, would be beneficial to this species and reptiles in general and conclude that reconciling grazing and reptile conservation is possible if done in a sustainable way.
Fernández Cardenete, J.R. & García Cardenete, L. (2010) -
Fernández Meléndez, E. & Mateo, J.A. (2024) -
Fernández-Cardenete, J.R. & Luzón-Ortega, J.M. & Pérez-Contreras, J. & Tierno de Figueroa, J.M. (2000) -
Review of the distribution and conservation of amphibians and reptiles in the Province of Granada (Spain). -- The distribution of amphibians and reptiles in the Province of Granada (Spain) is recorded in 10 x 10 km U.T.M. squares. This updates previously recorded data. Thirty-four species, 12 amphibian and 22 reptiles, were found. The known spatial distribution of all the species is enlarged. Eleven species were found at higher than previously known altitudes. Conservation problems in the study area are pointed out.
Fernández-Galiano, E. (1999) -
Fernández-Guiberteau, D. & Carrero Casado, F. (2016) -
It is provided cases of death feigning (=thanatosis) in Podarcis muralis, Psammodromus occidentalis and Natrix maura.
Fernández-Guiberteau, D. & González de la Vega, J.P. (2012) -
It is confirmed the continuity of the population described by (Rivera, Simón i Arribas, 2009). Discovery of a population of Vaucher’s lizard Podarcis vaucheri (Boulenger, 1905) out of its limits in Almería (southeast of the Iberian Peninsula) and defined the origin due to a natural distribution.
Fernandez-Guiberteau, D. & Perez-Sorribes, L. & Garcia-Salmerón, A. & Loras, F. & Mompart, J.M. (2017) -
The present note announces a new location of the common wall lizard Podarcis muralis in the UTM 10x10 grid (DG61) in the Sant Celoni township (Vallés Oriental, Catalunya), which is located at a low altitude (77 msnm). The isolation and the spread of the known data (old data the majority) and the ex- tinction of other locations in the Tordera medium and low basin, was a little bit disappointing. But now we can demonstrate that the common wall lizard, is still surviving. The study, and management by the administration of this population, and its habitats would be necessary in order to conserve it. Moreover, the determination of the conservation state of other Podarcis muralis isolated populations in low alti- tude locations would be interesting.
Fernández-Ortin, D. & Sánchez-Montes, G. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2019) -
Monfragüe National Park (Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain) is a protected area in central‐western Iberia, including some of the best preserved primary Mediterranean vegetation. Legal protection dates back to 1979 (first as a Natural Park and then as a National Park), but knowledge about its reptile communities is so far limited to sparse records. In this paper we present an updated species list based on 521 records covering 163 1x1 km UTM grids in the study area, compiled in the period 2000‐2019. We detected 20 native species, representing 71.4% of the reptile fauna in Extremadura and 35% of the ibero‐balearic reptile fauna. Additionally, based on molecular analyses populations of the amphisbaenid genus Blanus in the study area are assigned to the oriental Iberian taxon, B. cinereus. The new records extend the known distribution of the different reptile species in the study area in 56 10x10 km UTM grids. Species presenting more restricted distributions in Monfragüe are Lacerta schreiberi (one 1x1 grid), Emys orbicularis, and Acanthodactylus erythrurus (four 10x10 grids each).
Fernández-Ortin, D. & Toboso-Borrella, A. (2014) -
Fernandez-Rodriguez, I. & Barroso, F.M. & Carretero, M.A. (2021) -
Maintaining body temperature is essential for the optimal performance of physiological functions. Ectotherms depend on external heat sources to thermoregulate. However, thermoregulation may be constrained by body condition and hydration state. Autotomy (i.e., the voluntary shed of a body part) evolved in various animal lineages and allowed surviving certain events (such as predator attacks), but it may affect body condition and volume/surface ratios, increase dehydration and constrain thermoregulation. In the framework of a general analysis of the evolution of autotomy, here we assessed the effects of tail loss on the thermal preferences and evaporative water loss rates (EWL) in the lizard Podarcis bocagei, integrating the thermal and hydric factors. We did not observe shifts in the thermal preferences of experimentally autotomized lizards when compared to the controls, which contradicted the hypothesis that they would raise preferred temperature to increase metabolic rates and accelerate regeneration. Evaporative water loss rates were also similar for tailed and tailless in dividuals, suggesting negligible increase of water loss through the injury and no specific ecophysiological re sponses after autotomy. Therefore, the changes observed in autotomized lizards in the field are to be considered primarily behavioural, rather than physiological, and thermoregulation could be secondarily affected by behavioural compensations for an increased predation risk after autotomy. Functional studies are necessary to understand how lizards’ interaction with the environment is altered after autotomy, and further studies including different dehydration levels would be useful to fully understand the effect of water shortage on lizards’ per formance after caudal autotomy.
Fernández-Rodriguez, I. & Brana, F. (2020) -
Autotomy has evolved independently several times in different animal lineages. It frequently involves immediate functional costs, so regeneration evolved in many instances to restore the functionality of that body part. Caudal autotomy is a widespread antipredator strategy in lizards, although it may affect energy storage, locomotion dynamics, or survival in future encounters with predators. Here, we assessed the effect of tail loss on the locomotor performance of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis ), as well as the recovery of locomotor functionality of lizards with regenerated tails, and the movement dynamics of shed tails that were either intact or having regenerated portions. Tail loss had no effect on locomotion over unhindered spaces, possibly due to compensation between a negative effect on the stride of front limbs, and a positive effect of losing mass and friction force. We found a clear negative impact of tail loss on locomotion in spaces with interspersed obstacles, in which tailed lizards jumped larger distances when leaving the obstacles. Besides, lizards that used the tail to push off the ground were able to approach the obstacles from further, so that the tail seemed to be useful when used during jumping. Regeneration fully restores lizard`s locomotor capacities, but tail antipredator value, as indicated by the intensity of post‐autotomic movements, is only partially retrieved. From these results, we propose that, together with the recovery of post‐autotomy antipredator capacities, the restoration of the organismal locomotor performance may have been an important, yet frequently neglected factor in the evolution of lizard`s regeneration ability.
Fernández-Rodríguez, I. & Brana, F. (2021) -
The balance of energy allocated to development and growth of different body compartments may incur allocation conflicts and can thereby entail physiological and evolutionary consequences. Regeneration after autotomy restores the functionality lost after shedding a body part but requires a strong energy investment that may trade-off with other processes, like reproduction or growth. Caudal autotomy is a widespread antipredator strategy in lizards, but regeneration may provoke decreased growth rates in juveniles that could have subsequent consequences. Here, we assessed the growth of intact and regenerating hatchling wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) exposed to different food regimens. Regenerating juveniles presented slightly but significantly lower body growth rates than individuals with intact tails when facing low food availability, but there were no differences when food was supplied ad libitum. Regenerating individuals fed ad libitum increased their ingestion rates compared to intact ones during the period of greatest tail growth, which also reveals a cost of tail regeneration. When resources were scarce, hatchlings invested more in tail regeneration in relation to body growth, rather than delay regeneration to give priority to body growth. We propose that, in juvenile lizards, regeneration could be prioritized even at the expense of body growth to restore the functionality of the lost tail, likely increasing survivorship and the probability to reach reproductive maturity. Our study indicates that food availability is a key factor for the occurrence of trade-offs between regeneration and other growth processes, so that environmental conditions would be determinant for the severity of the costs of regeneration.
Fernández-Rodriguez, I. & Brana, F. (2021) -
Autotomy is a drastic antipredator defense consisting of the voluntary shedding of abody part to escape from the predators. The loss of a body part may impair loco-motion, feeding or mating, so animals may face a higher predation risk shortly afterautotomy. Thus, until regeneration is completed, prey may adjust their behavior toreduce predation risk, and this could involve secondary costs. We assessed theeffect of tail loss on the antipredator behavior of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis), comparing the behavior of tailed and tailless individuals exposed to a predatorysnake (Coronella austriaca) scent, under controlled experimental conditions. Taillesslizards spent significantly more time performing behaviors with antipredatory sig-nificance (e.g., moving slowly), whereas tailed individuals performed exploratorywalking for significantly more time. Moreover, tailless lizards spent more timebasking, which probably increases the effectiveness of their cryptic design and de-creases detection by predators. Lizards intensified the tongue flick rates when ex-posed to a pungent control or snake scents, as compared to their response to aneutral control. Besides, both tailed and tailless lizards intensified some aspects oftheir antipredator behavior (walking slowly and avoiding refuge use) when exposedto snake scent, which indicates discrimination of the smell of predatory snakes. Lizards decreased refuge use when exposed to predator scents, probably becausethe refuges are evaluated as unsafe due to a high concentration of snake scents. Toconclude, our experiments showed that, after losing their tails, wall lizards modifytheir behavior in a way that likely minimizes predation risk.
Fernández-Rodriguez, I. & Brana, F. (2022) -
Autotomy is the ability to shed a body part when an animal receives an attack by a predator. It is often followed by regeneration of the lost parts to counteract dys functions related to limb amputation. Caudal autotomy is frequently used in lizards to avoid predation and is followed by tail regeneration. Regeneration is a costly process that can limit the resources available for somatic growth, accumulation of reserves and reproduction. We carried out two experiments to evaluate the short term and long-term effects of regeneration following caudal autotomy on the repro ductive investment of female wall lizards (Podarcis muralis), an iteroparous multi voltine species that produces 1–3 clutches per breeding season. In the short-term experiment, we compared the clutches of intact and regenerating females to explore the effects of regeneration during the development of the second clutch (built under an income breeding strategy). In the long-term experiment, we studied the invest ment made in the first spring clutch by intact and regenerating females, to assess the effects of regeneration that started prior to wintering, likely affecting the lipid storages required to develop that clutch (built under a capital breeding strategy). Regenerating females of both experiments presented a reduction in clutch mass rel ative to snout-vent length, but greater in the short-term than in the long-term exper iment. Furthermore, in the short-term experiment, the amount of tail regenerated was negatively correlated with the investment in reproduction, and regenerating females presented higher egg failure rates. These effects were stronger when clutches were built mostly under an income breeding strategy, which suggests that capital breeding may buffer the costs of regeneration on reproduction.
Fernández, J. & Arribas, O. (2014) -
A male of Aurelio’s Rock Lizard was observed devouring its own distal part of the tail after suffering an incomplete amputation (autourophagy). This is the first observed case of this phenomenon and is compared with other cannibalism observations in Sauria.
Ferner, J.W. (2004) -
Several populations of lacertid lizards were introduced to the United States during the last century. Of these, the European wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in Cincinnati, Ohio, and northern Kentucky and the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) on Long Island, NewYork, and in Topeka, Kansas, have become well established. These urban populations are successful in that they have little competition from native species and are pre-adapted for the climate at these latitudes. Local scientists are taking advantage of the opportunity to study the natural history and population ecology of these populations.
Ferner, J.W. & Ferner, J.P. (2002) -
Ferrandino, I. & Favorito, R. & Annunziata, M. & Grimaldi, M.C. (2009) -
The cytotoxic effects of cadmium (Cd) on the pituitary gland were studied in the lizard Podarcis sicula. Adult lizards were treated intraperitoneally with a single injection of CdCl2 at the dose of 2 mg/kg. A morphological study was performed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) technique and by immunocytochemical demonstration of caspase‐3 for detecting apoptotic cells in situ after 2, 7, and 16 days of treatment. The pituitary cells of Cd‐treated P. sicula undergo apoptosis: after 2 days the apoptotic cells appeared to increase significantly compared with those of the control specimens; after 7 days there was no considerable increment; however, after 16 days the occurrence of apoptotic cells had increased markedly, above all in the rostral pars distalis (RPD) in which various cells showed a strongly immunostained nucleus by TUNEL. Cd appears particularly toxic for pituitary cells in the lizard P. sicula; a single high intraperitoneal dose of CdCl2 induces apoptosis, in particular in the RPD, and this effect appears irreversible.
Ferrandino, I. & Favorito, R. & Grimaldi, M.C. (2006) -
Ferrandino, I. & Monaco, A. & Grimaldi, M.C. (2015) -
Leptin is the hormone synthesised by adipocytes, which plays an important role in regulating appetite and metabolism. In mammals, this pleiotropic hormone also plays a key role in controlling gonadotropin secretion by stimulatory hypothalamic and pituitary actions. However, little is known about leptin in lower vertebrates and particularly few studies are available on reptiles. In the present work, we analysed the action of recombinant human leptin on FSH cells in the pituitary gland of Podarcis siculus female lizards exposed to four different concentrations of the hormone. FSH cells showed a dose-dependent reaction. The data are indicative of the role played by leptin in modulating the cellular activity of such cells in the pituitary gland of P. siculus, similar to what was already reported in mammals. A functional receptor is evidently able to respond to leptin in this lizard, but further comparative studies are needed to understand the role of this hormone in ectothermic vertebrates.
Ferrao da Costa, G. & Brito, J.C. (2007) -
Ferreira, A.I. & Vasconcelos, D.S. & Harris, D.J. (2023) -
Ferreira, C.C. & Santos, X. & Carretero, M.A. (2016) -
Background. Reptiles are sensitive to habitat disturbance induced by wildfires but species frequently show opposing responses. Functional causes of such variability have been scarcely explored. In the northernmost limit of the Mediterranean bioregion, lizard species of Mediterranean affinity (Psammodromus algirus and Podarcis guadarramae) increase in abundance in burnt areas whereas Atlantic species (Lacerta schreiberi and Podarcis bocagei) decrease. Timon lepidus, the largest Mediterranean lizard in the region, show mixed responses depending on the locality and fire history. We tested if such interspecific differences are of functional nature, namely, if lizard ecophysiological traits may determine their response to fire. Based on the variation in habitat structure between burnt and unburnt sites, we hypothesise that Mediterranean species increasing density in open habitats promoted by frequent fire regimes should be more thermophile and suffer lower water losses than Atlantic species. Methods. We submitted 6-10 adult males of the five species to standard experiments for assessing preferred body temperatures (Tp) and evaporative water loss rates (EWL), and examined the variation among species and along time by means of repeated-measures AN(C)OVAs. Results. Results only partially supported our initial expectations, since the medium-sized P. algirus clearly attained higher Tp and lower EWL. The two small wall lizards (P. bocagei and P. guadarramae) displayed low Tp and high EWL while the two large green lizards (T. lepidus and L. schreiberi) displayed intermediate values for both parameters. Discussion. The predicted differences according to the biogeographic affinities within each pair were not fully confirmed. We conclude that ecophysiology may help to understand functional reptile responses to fire but other biological traits are also to be considered.
Ferreira, D. & Brito, J.C. & Santos, X. (2018) -
Ferreira, D. & Mateus, C. & Santos, X. (2016) -
Fire has impact on reptile communities with marked shifts in community composition between burnt and unburnt areas. These shifts are often related to the preference of reptile species throughout early or late post-fire successional habitats. Areas located in transition zones between bioregions harbor complex reptile communities with a mixture of biogeographic affinities. In these biogeographic crossroads, since fire simplifies the habitat structure, we expected simpler (lower alpha diversity) and more similar (lower beta diversity) reptile communities within burnt than within unburnt localities. We have tested this hypothesis in a transition zone between the Atlantic and Mediterranean bioregions in northern Portugal. Reptiles were surveyed in five localities (8 times per locality) along fire edges in which each locality was composed of one burnt and one unburnt transect. In total, 588 reptiles from 10 species were recorded. Unburnt transects had higher alpha and beta diversity and higher relative abundance of non-Mediterranean individuals than did burnt transects. A redundancy analysis also showed contrasting responses of Mediterranean and non-Mediterranean species, the former increasing and the latter decreasing after fire. Our study demonstrates that fire reduced the complexity of the reptile community, with benefits towards Mediterranean species due to its environmental preferences and long evolutionary association to fire. In biogeographic crossroads such as the study area, the retention of long unburnt vegetation is expected to maintain more diverse reptile communities.
Ferreira, D. & Pinho, C. & Brito, J.C. & Santos, X. (2019) -
Socioeconomic and climatic factors are modifying fire regimes with an increase of fire frequency and extension. Unfortunately, the effects of recurrent fires on biological processes that ultimately affect the genetic diversity of animal populations are mostly unknown. We examined genetic patterns of diversity in the wall lizard Podarcis guadarramae in northern Portugal, one of the European regions with the highest percentage of burnt land. This species is a small saxicolous lizard as it inhabits natural outcrops and artificial stone walls, likely in recurrent-fire landscapes. We genotyped nine microsatellites from ten populations selected according to a gradient in fire recurrence, and compared genetic diversity indexes and demographic patterns among them. At the population level, we hypothesize that a high level of mortality and population bottlenecks are expected to reduce genetic heterozygosity in sampled localities affected by recurrent fires. Alternatively, genetic signatures are expected to be absent whether fire did not cause high mortality. Regardless of levels of mortality, we expect a gain in genetic diversity whether recurrent fires facilitate lizard dispersal and migration due to the increased quality of the habitat for wall lizards. At the regional level, we examine whether a recurrent fire regime may disrupt the spatial structure of populations. Our results showed an increase in genetic diversity in recurrently burnt populations, and a decline in longer-unburnt populations. We did not detect bottleneck effects in repeatedly-burnt populations. High genetic diversity in recurrent fire populations suggests a high dispersion rate between adjacent metapopulations and perhaps immigration from outside the fire boundary. At the regional level, lizard populations show low differentiation and weak genetic structure, suggesting no effects of fire. This study confirms field-based censuses showing that recurrent-fire regimes give ecological opportunities to wall lizards that benefit from habitat openness.
Ferreira, D. & Zagar, A. & Santos, X. (2017) -
Transition zones between bioregions can sustain the coexistence of species with different biogeographic affinities through ecological niche segregation at a finer scale. Reptiles can serve as a good model group to evaluate the mechanisms behind such coexistence patterns especially due to their thermal sensibility to microhabitat structure. We examined whether reptile species spatially segregate in their microhabitat use and whether this segregation reflects the biogeographic affinities of species. Reptiles were surveyed across a 1.5-km transect located in the Peneda-Gerês National Park. We used 478 GPS observations of nine sympatric non-Mediterranean and Mediterranean species collected during field surveys in 2012 and 2013. Each observation was assigned to a microhabitat-openness measurement. Differences in microhabitat selection between Mediterranean and non-Mediterranean species were studied with factorial ANOVA analyses. The similarity in microhabitat selection between pairs of species was compared with the similarity in their Iberian distributions by a Partial Mantel test checking for the genetic distances between species pairs in a phylogenetic framework. Comparing a random selection of points along transect, we found that non-Mediterranean species used more closed microhabitats than Mediterranean species. No differences in this pattern were found between snakes and lizards. The Mantel test showed that microhabitat selection was correlated with the Iberian geographic distributional patterns of species. The complex vegetation structure of this area is most likely responsible for the availability of different microhabitats, which promotes high reptile species richness and governs their sympatric coexistence at a finer scale.
Ferreira, M. & Proenca, V. & Antunes, P. & Barbault, R. & Vicente, L. (2004) -
Ferreira, M. & Proenca, V. & Perraud, B. & Luz, A.C. & Vicente, L. (2004) -
Ferreira, M. & Proenca, V. & Vicente, L. (2004) -
Ferreira, M. & Proenca, V. & Vicente, L. (2005) -
Ferreira, M. & Vicente, L. (2001) -
Ferreira, T.A.P. (2015) -
There is an increasing recognition that fire is an important component of many ecosystems in the world, essential to understand the ecology and diversity of communities in fire-prone regions. It impacts fauna directly, through mortality, or indirectly by changing habitat structure and resources availability. In recent decades global warming, land abandonment and changes in traditional agricultural activities are driving changes in the frequency and extent of fires. In this context, to know the response of organisms to fire regimes is a conservation priority. Reptiles are a good model group to examine their responses to fire as they are ectothermic, sensible to modifications in habitat attributes such as vegetation structure and canopy closure, have low mobility and dispersal rates, and experience high rates of population declines and extinction. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of fire on reptile assemblages at two geographic scales: at a worldwide scale, where I examined patterns of reptile responses to fire considering the time since fire effect with a meta-analysis methodology (Chapter 1); at a local scale, where I evaluated the effect of wildfires on the reptile communities of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, namely on the population densities, species richness (Chapters 2) and examined how the trophic ecology and interspecific interactions varied with fire using the Psammodrome lizard as a model species (Chapter 3). For this, I used a set of proper methodologies in order to collect and analyze all the data needed to perform this study (search scientific data for a meta-analysis; transects for reptile surveys followed by vegetation and habitat structure characterization; fecal pellets analysis and network metrics for lizard‟s diet). At a worldwide scale, lizards‟ diversity (richness) but not abundance decreases immediately after fire (<1 year) but recovers quickly to pre-fire levels with increased abundance. Regarding snakes, diversity is not significantly affected by time-since-fire but abundance decreases in the latter stages of the post-fire succession. In Serra da Estrela Natural Park, reptile abundance decreases in the first 5 years of post-fire succession, but increases in the interval between 5-10 years. I also found that Psammodromus algirus is positively related with tree cover, and negatively related with herbaceous cover. Plant diversity is also a relevant parameter for reptiles, since its presence (abundance) is positively related with the diversity of plant species. Relatively to the diet, metrics of the bipartite network for lizards collected in unburned and burned habitats demonstrated that P. algirus presents more selective behaviors in unburned habitats, than in burned ones. I have also found differences between burned and unburned areas as regards availability of prey, being the burned area the one presenting the richest arthropod communities. My results suggest that immediately after fire there is a decrease in species richness but communities recover quickly and reptile abundance increases in early stages of post-fire succession (both globally, and also in Serra da Estrela Natural Park). Although reptiles present a close relation with habitat structure, they seem well adapted to areas with different time since fire and present stable abundances across the post-fire succession. Moreover, they have diet variation and are adapted to consume a large variety of preys when conditions are not suitable. In undisturbed areas, they may present a selective behavior.
Ferrer i Riu, J. & Filella Subirá, E. (2011) -
Ferrer-Lerín, F. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Reques, R.- (2019) -
Ferrer, A. & Coeugnet, E. (2000) -
Ferri, D. & Liquori, G.E. (1994) -
Mucous cells and enteroendocrine cells of the pyloric region of the ruin lizard (Podarcis sicula campestris De Betta) have been examined by lectin histochemical and immunohistochemical methods. Binding to five plant lectins (Canavalia ensijormis. Con A; Triticum vulgare. wheat germ, WGL; Lotus tetragonolobus, winged pea, WPL; Glycine max, soybean, SBL; Arachis hypogaea. peanut, PNL) was performed to characterize glycoconjugates in the secretory products of superficial and glandular mucous cells. Lectin histochemistry revealed the presence of N-acetyl-D-galactosamine, D-galactose and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine in the pyloric superficial cells. Mucous glandular cells mainly contained neutral glycoproteins with terminal residues of galactose, N-acetyl-D-glucosamine and N-acetyl-D-galactosamine. These cells did not react with Con A after periodate oxidation-sodium borohydride reduction (Paradoxical Con A staining). In the pyloric glands three different types of endocrine cells were identified immunohistochemically: gastrin-, serotonin- and somatostatin-immunoreactive cells; VIP-. bombesin- or cholecystokinin-immunoreactive cells have not been found in the pyloric mucosa.
Ferri, D. & Liquori, G.E. (1996) -
Ferri, D. & Liquori, G.E. (1997) -
Ferri, D. & Liquori, G.E. & Labate, M. (1984) -
Ferri, V. (1993) -
A starting point for this work was the intention of making a comparison between the present herpeto-faunistic situation in a precise piace, «Valle di Nom> in the west of Trentino, and that of the last century, as outlined in the works of Edoardo De Betta (1822-1896), the illustrious naturalist from the same piace. The data collected after three years of field research, bibliographic verification, inspection of public and private herpetological collections and interviews with local people and environmental operators, reveal that substantial changes have taken place since the research of Edoardo De Betta. The number of the present species is reduced -15 species remain out of the 21 mentioned in the past (DE BETTA, 1852, 1857, 1885) - and the condition of the various populations appears to be seriously compromised. This situation is likely to be connected to the numerous environmental changes happened in this Valley: forest and pasture situated on tablelands and geologica! terraces and large natural moist zones in the last century; extended zones used for fruit-growing (apple-trees) up to a height of 1000 m, reclamation of land and direct contro! of the irrigation network today.
Ferri, V. (1994) -
Ferri, V. & Battisti, C. & Fanelli, G. (2017) -
An analysis of a 30-year dataset (1985–2014) concerning a herpetofauna assemblage studied in a site of conservation concern (Northern Italy) is reported with the aim of evidencing a trend in species richness which may reveal the most sensitive ones (i.e., the first to go extinct locally). Our results point to a progressive loss of species (nested species relaxation) which were not replaced over the study period and consequently to a decline in species richness. Among the amphibians, two thresholds in mean species richness were evident in the mid and late 1990s, respectively, whereas reptiles showed a significant threshold only at the end of the 1990s. An inductive hypothesis to explain the abrupt relaxation in species richness in the mid and late 1990s may involve a combination of `pulse` or `press` perturbations at different scales. Moreover, although our long-term standardized study suffers from some limitations, our data clearly indicate a different species-specific sensitivity which could be useful to identify focal species of conservation concern. However, further comparisons with data set collected from long-term and wide-ranging studies are needed to confirm our temporal thresholds, in order to infer a more general model from this local pattern.
Ferri, V. & Dell’Acqua, A. & Salvidio, S (1991) -
Ferri, V. & Salvidio, S. (2006) -
Ferri, V. & Schiavo, R.M. (1993) -
Ferwer, W. (2009) -
Ferwer, W. (2012) -
Am 143.08.2011 wurde von 16.00 bis 19.00 Uhr ein waldumschlossenes ca. 1 km² großes Heidegebiet bei Hermannsburg, Niedersachsen, systenatisch auf Lacerta agilis hin untersucht. Es wurden elf subadulte und acht adulte Tiere gezählt, dabei handelte es sich überraschwnderweise ausschließlich um Weibchen.
Ferwerda. W.H. (1997) -
Some notes are given on Gastroplwlis prasina based on the available literature. These arboreal lacertids, which were seen during a visit to the Bioken Snake Farm, were originally from the Arabuko Sokoke coastal forest, Kenya. This beautiful green lizard with a highly prehensile tail, seems perfectly adapted to life in the tree tops.
Fiacchini, D. (2006) -
Fiacchini, D. & Scotti, M. & Angelini, J. & Burattini, R. & Fusco, G. (2006) -
Fiacchinio, D. & Foglia, G. (2006) -
Ficetola, G.F. & Barzaghi, B. & Melotto, A. & Muraro, M. & Lunghi, E. & Canedoli, C. & Parrino, E.L. & Nanni, V. & Silva-Rocha, I. & Urso, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Salvi, D. & Sali, S. & Scari, G. & Pennati, R. & Andreone, F. & Manenti, R. (2018) -
Accurate measures of species abundance are essential to identify conservation strategies. N-mixture models are increasingly used to estimate abundance on the basis of species counts. In this study we tested whether abundance estimates obtained using N-mixture models provide consistent results with more traditional approaches requiring capture (capture-mark recapture and removal sampling). We focused on endemic, threatened species of amphibians and reptiles in Italy, for which accurate abundance data are needed for conservation assessments: the Lanza’s Alpine salamander Salamandra lanzai, the Ambrosi’s cave salamander Hydromantes ambrosii and the Aeolian wall lizard Podarcis raffonei. In visual counts, detection probability was variable among species, ranging between 0.14 (Alpine salamanders) and 0.60 (cave salamanders). For all the species, abundance estimates obtained using N-mixture models showed limited differences with the ones obtained through capture-markrecapture or removal sampling. The match was particularly accurate for cave salamanders in sites with limited abundance and for lizards, nevertheless non-incorporating heterogeneity of detection probability increased bias. N-mixture models provide reliable abundance estimates that are comparable with the ones of more traditional approaches, and offer additional advantages such as a smaller sampling effort and no need of manipulating individuals, which in turn reduces the risk of harming animals and spreading diseases.
Ficetola, G.F. & Falaschi, M. & Bonardi, A. & Padoa-Schioppa, E. & Sindaco, R. (2018) -
The analysis of biogeographical structure and patterns of endemism are central topics of biogeography, but require exhaustive distribution data. A lack of accurate broad-scale information on the distribution of reptiles has so far limited the analyses of biogeographical structure. Here we analysed the distribution of reptiles within the broad-sense Western Palearctic to assess biogeographical regionalization using phylogenetic and non-phylogenetic approaches, identified areas of endemism and evaluated the environmental factors pro- moting community uniqueness and endemism. We gathered distributional records from the literature and from the field, mapping the distribution of all the Western Palearctic reptiles on a 1-degree resolution grid. bsim dissimilarity and hierarchical clustering was used to identify bioregions, analysing data both at the species and at the genus level, and considering phylogenetic dissimilarity. Consensus areas of endemism were identified on the basis of the optimality criterion. We then assessed whether biogeographical structure is related to present-day climate, insularity, orography and velocity of climate change during the Late Qua- ternary. The genus-level analysis identified five main biogeographical regions within the Western Palearctic, in partial agreement with previous proposals, while the species-level analysis identified more bioregions, largely by dividing the ones identified by genera. Phylogenetic bioregions were generally consistent with the non- phylogenetic ones. The strongest community uniqueness was observed in subtropical warm climates with seasonal precipitation and low productivity. We found nine consensus areas of endemism, mostly in regions with limited velocity of Quaternary climate change and warm subtropical climates. The biogeographical structure of Western Palearctic reptiles is comparable to what has been observed in other vertebrates, with a clear distinction between the Saharo-Arabian-Sindian and Euro-Mediterranean herpetofaunas. Unlike other vertebrates, in reptiles the highest uniqueness and endemism is observed in dry climates, but the velocity of climate change during the Quaternary remains a major driver of endemism across all the vertebrates.
Ficetola, G.F. & Silva-Rochja, I. & CARRETERO, M.A. & Vignoli, L. & Sacchi, R. & Melotto, A. & Scali, S. & Salvo, D. (2021) -
The Aeolian wall lizard Podarcis raffonei is an island endemic that survives only on three tiny islets, and on the Capo Grosso peninsula of the Vulcano island, thus is among the European vertebrates with the smallest range and one of the most threatened by extinction. This species is declining due to competition and hybridization with the non-native lizard Podarcis siculus, but a regular monitoring program is lacking. Here we assessed the size and status of the Capo Grosso population of P. raffonei on Vulcano. In September 2015 we captured 30 individuals showing the typical brown phenotype of P. raffonei, while one single male showed a green phenotype, apparently intermediate between P. raffonei and the non-native Podarcis siculus. In May 2017, only 47% of 131 individuals showed the typical brown phenotype (P. raffonei-like) and 53% showed the green phenotype (P. siculus-like). Based on N-mixture models and removal sampling the estimated size of the Capo Grosso population was of 800–1300 individuals in 2017, being similar to 2015; available data suggest that the total range of the species could be as small as 2 ha. The frequency of individuals with the typical P. raffonei phenotype dramatically dropped between two samplings with a parallel increase of individuals displaying the green phenotype. Observation on outdoor captive bred individuals demonstrates plasticity for colouration in P. raffonei individuals from Capo Grosso, with several individuals showing the typical brown pattern in September 2017 and a green pattern in March 2021. Non-exclusive hypotheses, including hybridization with P. siculus and plasticity in colour pattern of P. raffonei, are discussed to explain the phenotypic shifts of the P. raffonei population of Capo Grosso. While genomic evidence is required to reach conclusions and investigate eventual hybridization, it is urgent to undertake a programme for the monitoring and management of this lizard.
Fici, S. & Lo Valvo, F. (2004) -
Mediterranean lizards are involved in the dispersion of Capparis spinosa subsp. rupestris due to their attraction by fleshy tissues of the fruits, ripening in xeric coastal environments during the summer months. The results of field observations carried out in Linosa (Pelagie Islands) are presented, showing that dispersal by Podarcis filfolensis laurentiimuelleri principally happens through ingestion of the seeds together with parts of the fleshy pulp. This lizard, endemic to Linosa and Lampione is widespread in different habitats and shows trophic generalism. The fruit of C. spinosa subsp. rupestris, a dehiscent berry, is described and the implications of the dispersal agents on the autecology of this plant are discussed. These observations confirm the importance of lizard-plant mutualism in the islands, where lizards are often recorded as fruit consumers.
Fietz, H. (2022) -
Discovery of a subadult Podarcis siculus compestris in a garden center in the North of Harrrburg, Germany.
Figueirinhas, C. & Amaral, J.P,do & Ferreira, M. & Proenca, V. & Luz, A.C. & Hasse, A. & Sousa, J. & Vicente, L. (2006) -
Filella i Subira, E. (1983) -
Filippi, F. de (1852) -
Filippi, F. de (1863) -
Filiz, H. (2000) -
Filosa, S. (1973) -
Filosa, S. & Perrotti, M. (1969) -
Filosa, S. & Ratini, A. & Roberti, V. (1972) -
Filosa, S. & Taddei, C. & Andreuccetti, P. (1979) -
The follicular epithelium of the lizard oocytes undergoes structural and morphological modifications throughout oocyte growth. During this process the number of follicle cells increases and the epithelium acquires a multilayered and polymorphic organization which is characterized by the appearance of large follicle cells (intermediate and pyriform cells). The number of large cells also increases during oocyte growth and this increase parallels that of small cells. However, only the small cells become labelled one hour after [3H-]thymidine administration. Large cells have been found labelled after a longer period of time, i.e. 4--5 months after isotope injection. All these results together indicate that large follicle cells arise from the differentiation of small cells.
Filson, R.P. (2004) -
Findenegg, I. & Reisinger, E. (1950) -
Finsch, O. (1880) -
Fiol Cerdà, M.M. (2018) -
The Balearic lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) is a native species of the Gymnesics islands, it has been cataloged as endangered by the IUCN. Because of its small population size and almost extinct in the major islands of Mallorca and Menorca. The aim of this work is to analyze the population variability, the phylogenetic relationships and the genetic structure of Podarcis lilfordi to the Cabrera Archipelago, through the use of molecular markers such as the mitochondrial DNA control region. The results reveal the presence of three clades within the archipelago, a relationship between the intrapopulation genetic variability and the surface of the islands and also it is shared haplotypes of Cabrera Gran, which suggesting that the island acted as a genetic reservoir.
Fioroni, P. (1961) -
Fischer-Siegwart, H. (1884) -
Fischer, D. & Velensky, P. & Chmelar, J. & Rehák, I. (2016) -
Fischer, D. (1998) -
Fischer, D. (2021) -
Brief presentation of a partially melanistic male sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), which was observed near Lorsch on the Hessian Bergstrasse.
Fischer, D. & Babická, K. & Fischerova, J. & Lerch, Z. & Miatoa, B. & Reiter, A. & Rehák, I. (2019) -
We discovered a local population of the lizard Podarcis tauricus (Pallas, 1814) in the South Moravia, Czech Republic, in 2019. Previously, this species was never reported from the Czech Republic. Its nearest known distribution lies 207 km far away in Hungary. An origin of this remote population remains unclear. Nevertheless, our findings of syntopically occurring adult males, adult females (including gravid one), subadults and juveniles show that it is viable, with an evident potential to reproduce.
Fischer, D. & Rehák, I. (2010) -
A population of Lacerta viridis at a locality in Tiché údolí not far from the Prague district of Suchdol was chosen for a study of its ecology, ethology and variability. The lizards inhabit a south facing slope and two abandoned quarries with an area of approx. 5 ha. The estimated population at the locality was between 40 to 60 individuals of which 30 – 35 were adults. Each year the number fluctuated considerably with regards to the changeable proportion of juveniles depending on the reproductive success. Likewise the population’s age structure fluctuated considerably depending on the reproductive success, where the ratio of individuals older than 2 years : under 2 years was roughly 1 : 1 following successful reproduction and 1 : 0.34 in favour of the older individuals following unsuccessful reproduction. The sex ratio in adults was around 1.22 : 1 in favour of the males. Population density was around 11 (6 – 7 adults) individuals per hectare. If the unused areas are removed then it was around 22 (12 – 14 adults) per hectare. During the reproductive period, the lizards aggregated markedly at certain sites in the locality. Adult males with their original tail achieved overall body lengths of 286.0 (323.6) 353.0 mm and weights of 23.5 (38.9) 53.0 g. Adult females with their original tail achieved overall body lengths of 257.0 (291.8) 327.0 mm and a weight of 18.5 (28.2) 37.0 g. For adult males the tail was 1.94 to 2.29 times longer than the body, for females it was 1.86 to 2.47 times longer. Adult males had considerably longer and wider heads in relation to body length and a far longer parietal scale in relation to the length and width of the head than the females. In contrast, adult females had a considerably larger relative spacing of the limbs and a considerably longer frontal scale in relation to the parietal scale than the adult males. Moreover adult males were found to have higher maximum and average numbers of femoral pores and a broader tail base than females. Individuals from the population showed great individuality in numbers and the arrangement of the scales on the dorsal side of the head. The normal arrangement and number of all of these scales was only found in 4 out of the 35 individuals captured, very often various shields were separated from the parts by a deep groove. 9 to 13 cervical collar scales were recorded. In essence, the colouring of the adult males was uniform – the body and legs were distinctly green with a number of small dark spots, the sides often had a yellow tinge, the abdomen was yellowish-green to clearly yellow, often with dark speckling. The tail was most often the same colour as the body, the head was dark on top with distinct light speckling. The throat, lower jaw and the lateral parts of the head were light blue to greenish-blue, during reproduction, however, this colouring gained in intensity. The throat colouring always ended abruptly at the cervical collar. In contrast the colouration of adult females varied considerably for each individual and can be divided up into several colour types ranging from a colouration that is more or less the same as that of the adult males, including the blue throat in one case, to variants with a dark dorsal stripe, varying sizes of speckling that always increased in density in the caudal direction to a variant that had uniform brown-green marbling. The tail and the rear legs were, on the whole, dark, the dorsal side of the head was olive green with a dark design, only rarely did it have lighter patches, the throat was most often white, the abdomen greyish-white without patches. After hatching the young were monochromatically grey-brown with a row of white spots on the sides of the body, with a creamy white throat and abdomen. The males acquired the characteristic adult colouration before the 2nd hibernation, the females over the next year in three various manners. For all individuals the brown colouring intensified during growth and dark patches appeared followed by light lines on the sides of the body. Gradual greening then began either from the dorsal side of the body, thus in the interphase an individual had a green back and brown hips or, conversely on the sides of the body, thus in the interphase the individual had a brown back and green sides. The last possibility was a gradual breakdown of the brown colouring, it being replaced by green on the entire body, thus the individual had brown-green marbling in the interphase. 62 % of the adult males from the locality had a tail in varying stages of regeneration. For adult females and juveniles this percentage was much lower, that being 18 % for adult females and 6 % for juveniles. The length of the regenerated tail is demonstrably less than that of the original tail. During regeneration there were changes in both its structure and its colouring. An increased incidence of other injuries was recorded in adult males. These included missing parts of the digits, various scars on the body and very frequent abrasions on the head. From the moment the adult females took part in their first mating there was a clear deformation of the scales in the area above the rear limbs caused by the males during copulation. The winter shelters were abandoned at the start of March to mid April depending on the temperature and weather, i.e. during sunny weather and at temperatures above 9 °C. With a gradual warming the adult males were the first to leave the shelter followed shortly afterwards by the sub-adult individuals with nearly a month’s interval before the adult females left. During a sudden warming, individuals of both sexes appeared in all age groups almost simultaneously. Winter shelters were sought and the start of hibernation began when the temperature fell below approx. 16 °C either in the second half of September or up to the first half of October. The young were active by up to 20 days longer than the adults and sub-adults. Within the entire population, hibernation took place en masse in two sites of the locality. The first male ecdysis was the signal to start mating (female ecdysis did not play any role). During favourable weather some of the females in the population mated immediately after laying the first clutch of eggs. The first mating took place during May, during unfavourable weather it was extended to the first half of June, the second mating was during June. In favourable weather mating lasted roughly a week, in unfavourable conditions (rain, cold) it was prolonged to roughly a month. After 19 to 41 days of pregnancy the eggs were laid – in June to the start of July for the first clutch, during July for the second clutch. Incubation ranged from 69 to 86 days. Hatching took place from September to the start of October. The young from the second clutch were first observed on the surface after the hibernation period. After a wet and cold year none of the young survived. The course of the annual cycle, starting with leaving the winter shelters and the first adult male ecdysis followed by the mating season, egg laying and ending with seeking winter shelters is exceptionally synchronised in the population under study. At the start and end of the period of activity the lizards were active during the day roughly from noon to 5 p.m., for the rest of the period of activity from 9.30 a.m. to 7 p.m., at temperatures above 17°C activity was extended to beyond 8 p.m. At the start of the period of activity (April and May) juveniles left the night shelter about 1 – 1.5 hours before the adults and sub-adults. The optimum temperatures at which the largest number of active individuals was found on the surface during sunny weather ranged from 19 °C to 24 °C. On sunny days with temperatures above 28°C the lizards sought shelter or kept to the shadows in the vegetation. The lowest temperature at which an individual was found to be active was 9 °C during sunny weather and 13 °C when overcast. On days that did not have a maximum temperature of 25 °C, activity was unimodal, peaking between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., at temperatures above 25 °C it was bimodal with a fall in activity roughly between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Pregnant females were even active under conditions in which the other individuals did not leave the shelter (in an extreme case at 13 °C with light rain), however, on average, they sought night shelter sooner. During the period of activity the majority of the adults and all of the juvenile individuals dispersed to more or less permanent individual home ranges. A minority of the adult males and all of the sub-adults did not have permanent ranges and lived an itinerant life during the period of activity. The size of the home ranges varied considerably per individual and fluctuated markedly depending on the part of the period of activity the individual was in. In 1995 its range was 5 m2 (62.9 m2) 225 m2 for adult males and 18 m2 (60.0 m2) 186 m2 for adult females, in 1996, when the weather was exceptionally bad, its range was 37 m2 (489.4 m2) 2023 m2 for adult males and 13 m2 (80,3 m2) 313 m2 for adult females. The adult males used the largest home ranges, that being in the period preceding the first mating and the first mating period, especially those that did not manage to obtain a female. The smallest home ranges were recorded for females during pregnancy and males during female pregnancy. It was common for the lizards’ home ranges to overlap, both those of adult males and females. For the large majority of the individuals there was at least one change to the home range during the period of activity, after the mating period the majority of adult males switched to an itinerant lifestyle. After hibernation the lizards had a tendency to occupy the same home range as in the previous year. Within an inhabited home range and outside of it the lizards moved in the proximity of potential shelters, surfaces with no place to hide, such as stony areas and various areas with no vegetation, were consistently avoided. The area of the home range was not used equally. Crannies between stones and tree roots were used as permanent shelters, as were the spaces under large stones or, if needs be, rodent burrows. Various dense, often thorny, bushes were used occasionally. The lizards often clambered up various trees and bushes. During the mating period the lizards formed permanent pairs sharing their home ranges for this period. Over the course of roughly a week they copulated several times over. In this period the males defended their territory very ardently, sometimes forming displays on their borders and any source of acoustic stimuli was thoroughly checked. Those males that had not formed a permanent couple either inhabited a very large home range that often distinctly overlapped with the home ranges of several other males (or pairs) or they wandered over the entire locality. Both these “kinds” of males constantly tested the readiness of those males living with a female and sometimes they managed to mate with a female. The largest number of conflicts occurred between the males during the mating period. During inclement weather the lizards were not able to form permanent pairs and on occasion the females clearly mated with a greater number of males. Copulation was always preceded by complicated precopulatory behaviour that lasted up to 2.5 hours and involved characteristic elements such as sunbathing together, pursuing the female, mounting the female, sniffng the female on the nape of the neck and in the hip area and even biting the female on the tail, body and nape. The female often dragged the male several tens of centimetres as he bit into her tail. A very characteristic female display is circling with one limb or both front limbs asynchronously. This behaviour was even observed in males during averse behaviour by the female. Acoustic displays by the males were also observed (hissing). During copulation, which lasted several seconds up to a minute, the males grasped the females in the area above the hind legs either from above, as with pincers, more often from the side across the back and abdomen. After the mating period ended the majority of males left the pair, however with a second mating they always returned to the same female. Adult males were very intolerant of one another and during the reproductive period, there were many conflicts between them. The vast majority of these are characterised by a rapid lunge followed by a short chase without any real physical contact. In those cases where the individual under attack did not flee, there was an intense flght,which was preceded by brief displays characterised by inflating the throat, lateral flattening of the body, raising up on the front limbs, bowing the head, whipping movements of the tail and swift circling of the limbs. During these displays the males turned their sides to one another and circled one another. A characteristic trait of the actual flight was grabbing the opponent by the head followed by pushing one another around for various time periods. The flight always ended in a brief chase. No displays of aggression were observed between the females or the young nor was there any aggression to the slow-worms and sand lizards that lived in the locality. Upon hatching the young were 83 mm – 85 mm in total length and weighed around 1 g. After 12 months of growth (without the hibernation period), i.e. aged about 21 months the lengths of these individuals (324 mm for males, 291 mm for females) approached the average values for adults, whilst the heaviest of them (17 g) achieved only 44 % (males) or 59 % (females) of the average adult weight. The lizards first reproduced after the third hibernation, i.e. in their third year. During the first 12 months of postnatal development of the young (without the hibernation period) a positive allometric tail growth was found compared to body length growth, there was negative allometric growth in the length of the head compared to the body length and negative allometric growth in head width compared to the growth in body length. The lizards reacted to the threat of danger in several various ways. The most common was flight that being either directly to a shelter or often just hiding in the vegetation. During their flight the lizards often stopped, a characteristic behaviour was to turn sharply after stopping. Some of the individuals relied on their camouflage colouring and remained motionless on the spot – this behaviour was relatively characteristic for pregnant females. During a direct threat, the lizards defended themselves by biting, which was preceded by a threatening behaviour with open jaws accompanied by relatively loud hissing. During a confrontation with a smooth snake the characteristic reaction was a lightning fast escape from its reach, for one individual this was preceded by a relatively high jump. The lizards spent the majority of the day sunning themselves, often in the same places. In the vast majority of cases, they sunbathed at a distance of less than 50 cm from a potential shelter. The females were more often found further from a shelter than the males as they are less noticeable due to their cryptic colouring. Juveniles were observed sunbathing with their front and hind limbs raised above the ground. The time the lizards spent looking after their body covering was negligible, the dominant part was behaviour associated with ecdysis, then cleaning the parts around the jaws and the nostrils using the tongue or rubbing against the ground or vegetation (always after devouring its prey) and scratching using the rear limbs. Over the active period there were three ecdyses in adults. The ecdysis took three to four days and was a wholly passive affair on the part of the lizards. The dominant component of the lizards’ diet in spring was spiders, millipedes, pill-bugs, worms and larvae or cocoons from various insect species, in the summer and autumn they ate grasshoppers and locusts. Throughout the year they hunted various beetles, crane flies, bee-flies, flesh-flies and on rare occasions even aposematic coloured prey such as wasps and bugs from the genus Pyrrhocoris. Two basic means of acquiring food were observed; those being active searching and the sit & wait strategies. The first of these was, to a great extent, only observed in a short period after leaving the winter shelter, for the rest of the active period the sit & wait strategy clearly dominated. Comparing the data obtained from the study with that of the literature, it emerges that:- The lizards in the population under study clearly had smaller dimensions than those discovered by other authors in other parts of the extended area.- The number of scales on the cervical collar and femoral pores were in the range presented by other authors. In contrast to some Czech authors, the observed number and arrangement of scales on the dorsal side of the head had a far greater variability.- The colouring of the adults in the observed population was in the range of variability presented in the literature. The colouring of newborn young corresponded to the species Lacerta viridis. The changes in colouring during the postnatal development of the young are in agreement with the literature. In addition, a variant was found in which the brown colouring gradually breaks down to be replaced by green on the entire body.- The observed weights and sizes of the young upon hatching are in agreement with the data in the literature. The data on the growth of the young is closest to the results obtained in a study of a population in the nearby city of Brest.- The data on attaining sexual maturity agrees with the results obtained from the Ukrainian Carpathians and from a locality in Brest and differs from the data of certain Czech authors.- The phenological data obtained is considerably close to the results obtained in a population from southern France, from the area above Odessa, the Ukrainian Carpathians and the Rhineland, in contrast it differs relatively markedly from data published from the Czech Republic. As concerns the lizards’ relationship to temperatures, these results are closest to the data from the Rhineland and differ quite markedly from that of Czech authors.- In contrast to the majority of authors, it was found that the females laid two clutches a year, which was only observed by authors studying a population in France.- Compared to Czech authors the observed period of pregnancy was markedly shorter. However the results are almost identical with data obtained from the Rhineland and French populations.- The incubation period was in the range given by the majority of authors.- Overall, the observed daily activity agreed with the published data. In relation to temperatures the results were closest to those from the Rhineland, compared to the other authors, however, the population under study is distinctly more cryophilic. - The observed sex ratio is close to the results from France and the Rhineland, however, it differs from some of the data in the Czech Republic (e.g. Krivoklátsko).- The data obtained on the age structure and its fluctuation in relation to the weather agrees with the data in the literature.- The observed sizes of the home ranges cannot be compared to the cited authors because, for instance, their work does not include the marked fluctuation in the size of the home ranges over the course of the period of activity that was observed in this population.- In principle, the observed data on reproductive behaviour agrees with the published data. Moreover, certain aspects were found that were not looked into by the given authors.
Údolí Vltavy ve středních Čechách se krajinným rázem výrazně odlišuje od okolní krajiny. Vyznačuje sespecifickýmteplotním,vodnímavzdušnýmrežimemazvláštnostmigeologickéhopodkladu. Je domovem typických rostlinných a živočišných společenstev vázaných na charakteristický komplex ekosystémů spojený s hluboce zaříznutým říčním údolím (tzv. říční fenomén – blíže viz Ložek 1988). Výrazná urbanizace a další antropogenní vlivy zdejší původní plně rozvinutý říční fenomén ovšem vý- razně narušily. Na území pražské zoologické zahrady v Troji se cenná společenstva svázaná s říčním fenoménem díky zvláštnímu režimu územního využití zachovala v pozoruhodné míře. Projevuje se to i unikátními, říčním fenoménem podmíněnými výskyty teplomilných živočichů. Jejich nápadnými a z hlediska ochra- nářského významnými reprezentanty jsou v České republice kriticky ohrožené druhy plazů – užovka podplamatá a ještěrka zelená. Pro zajištění jejich účinné ochrany na území Zoo Praha je potřebné zís- kat řadu údajů z autekologie místních populací. Zatímco výzkum užovky podplamaté zde již po ně- kolik let probíhá, ucelenější údaje o ještěrce zelené z teritoria zoologické zahrady nemáme k dispozici žádné. S výjimkou příspěvku Peciny (1993), nahodilých pozorování a alarmujících informací od pamět- níků o úbytku ještěrek zelených oproti stavu před několika desetiletími. Vysvětlován bývá někdy pre- dací volně se pohybujících pávů. Daleko pravděpodobnější však je souvislost se změnami zahradnic- kého managementu na území zoo, jak nasvědčuje i pozorování Peciny (1993). Zásadní význam pro pochopení populační dynamiky lokální populace ještěrky zelené v Zoo Praha a stanovení vhodného ochranného režimu mají výsledky výzkumu populace ještěrky zelené z protileh- lého břehu Vltavy, které byly provedeny v rámci diplomové práce prvního z autorů stávajícího sdělení (Fischer 1998), vzniklé na přírodovědecké fakultě Univerzity Karlovy v Praze v rámci výzkumné spolu- práce Přírodovědecké fakulty UK a Zoo Praha pod vedením druhého z autorů. Značnou roli zde mo- hou sehrát i zkušenosti s následným cíleným managementem této lokality, který vedl k výraznému posílení lokální populace, což v současnosti vyhodnocujeme opakovaným ekologickým výzkumem. Opatření jsou na lokalitě realizována prvním z autorů kontinuálně od roku 1999, přičemž finančně je postupně zajišťuje Okresní úřad Praha – západ, MŽP ČR (Program péče o krajinu) a Krajský úřad Stře- dočeského kraje (zákonná péče o místní zvláště chráněné území). V předkládaném sdělení podáváme přehled základních výsledků komplexně pojaté studie této povltavské lokální populace ještěrky zele- né, zabývající se jak její autekologií, etologií a reprodukční biologií, tak i zhodnocením vnější morfo- logie a zbarvení. Ještěrka zelená, Lacerta viridis (Laurenti, 1768) patří k největším a nejznámějším evropským zástup- cům čeledi Lacertidae. Tento druh je součástí komplexu taxonů druhové a poddruhové úrovně, ozna- čovaného jako „zelené ještěrky“, kam je v současnosti, vedle Lacerta viridis, řazeno ještě několik dal- ších, mnohdy navíc polytypických druhů (Elbing et al. 1997). Jedná se o evolučně mladé, morfologicky mnohdy dosti podobné formy, jejichž klasifikace ještě není úplně ustálená, Donedávna byl vlastní druh Lacerta viridis široce pojat – s rozšířením v širokém pásu Evropy mezi atlantickým pobřežím na západě (severní Španělsko, západní Francie, Channel Islands), pobřežím Středozemního moře na jihu a Černo- mořím na východě (na severovýchodě do Podněpří, na jihovýchodě v severozápadním Turecku). Ve střední Evropě se na sever od souvislého areálu rozšíření vyskytuje i izolovaně na příhodných lokali- tách v povodí Labe a Rýna (Mikátová et Nečas 1997, Naulleau 1997). Zjištění o odlišných adaptivních jednotkách v rámci tohoto areálu, hybridizační pokusy a následně vyšetření molekulárními a genetic- kými metodami a fylogeografické analýzy vedly k rozlišení dvou sesterských biologických druhů a te- dy rozdělení stávajícího široce pojímaného druhu Lacerta viridis s. l. na druhy Lacerta bilineata Daudin, 1802 a Lacerta viridis s. str. (Rykena 1991, Amann et al. 1997, Elbing et al. 1997, Brückner et al. 2001, Jo- ger et al. 2001, Godinho et al. 2005, Böhme et al. 2006, Joger et al. 2007). Západoevropské populace (Velká Británie, Španělsko, Francie, Švýcarsko, Itálie, Andora, Monako, San Marino) připadly druhu Lacerta bilineata, na území Chorvatska, Slovinska a Německa se v současnosti vyskytují oba druhy (v Německu Lacerta bilineata v Porýní a Lacerta viridis v Braniborsku) a populace ze zbytku bývalého areálu rozšíření ještěrky zelené (ČR, SR, Maďarsko, Rakousko, Ukrajina, Balkán) pak zůstávají druhu Lacerta viridis (Amann 1997, Elbing et al. 1997). Ve skutečnosti může být situace ješ- tě poněkud komplikovanější a názory na fylogeografii komplexu zelených ještěrek jsou stále ve vývoji (Böhme et al. 2006a, Joger et al. 2007). Lacerta viridis a L. bilineata jsou morfologicky a barevně velmi těžko odlišitelné (Gűnther 1996) a přes- tože lze mezi nimi zaznamenat drobné rozdíly ve folidóze a proporcích těla, v konkrétních případech je využití těchto znaků pro určení jednotlivých druhů problematické, neboť individuální variabilita je větší než statistické mezidruhové rozdíly (Elbing et al. 1997). Jediným spolehlivým vnějším znakem pro rozlišení Lacerta viridis a L. bilineata jsou zřetelné rozdíly ve zbarvení novorozených mláďat (Ryke- na 1991, Rykena et al. 1996 a, b). Přestože z našeho území (Dolnice u Chebu) jsou popsány v rámci střední Evropy vůbec nejstarší (sp. miocén) fosilní doklady formy blízké ještěrce zelené (Čerňanský 2010), je recentní rozšíření ještěr- ky zelené (L. viridis) u nás výhradně výsledkem postglaciální holocenní expanze zelených ještěrek z již- nějších glaciálních refugií (Böhme et al. 2006a). Taxonomicky patří naše ještěrky zelené nominotypic- kému poddruhu (L. v. viridis). V České republice je ještěrka zelená rozšířena na řadě lokalit, spadajících do povodí Dunaje (Morava), které tvoří součást souvislého výskytu tohoto druhu, sahajícího dále na jih a jihovýchod. Vedle toho je známa i z řady lokalit v Čechách z povodí Labe (údolí Berounky, Vltavy, Sá- zavy, Ohře a Labe), které jsou však od souvislého druhového areálu geograficky izolovány a svou exis- tencí jsou úzce svázány s tzv. říčním fenoménem (Ložek 1988, Strödicke 1995). Jejich izolovanost (i když z geologického hlediska nedávná) se odráží i v signifikantní genetické odlišnosti (i v nižší genetické va- riabilitě) ve srovnání s populacemi moravskými (Böhme et Moravec 2005, srv. též Böhme et Berendonk 2005, Böhme et al. 2006b). Konkrétní údaje o výskytu ještěrky zelené na našem území přinášejí např. Prach (1861), Štěpánek (1949), Hanák et al. (1959), Laňka (1965), Opatrný (1973, 1979), Šapovaliv (1980 - nepubl., 1988), Strődicke (1995) nebo Kerouš (1996). Mapku rozšíření v Čechách publikovali např. Lo- žek (1988), Mikátová et Nečas (1997) a Böhme et Moravec (2005). U nás patří ještěrka zelená mezi kriticky ohrožené druhy a její přežití, hlavně na lokalitách v Čechách, je díky silnému narušení stanovišť nejisté (Baruš et al. 1989, Kerouš 1996, Mikátová et Nečas 1997). Při- tom izolované lokality v Čechách jsou z hlediska dalších výzkumů velmi zajímavé, a to hned z několika důvodů. V první řadě se jedná o lokality, kde ještěrky přežívají na hranici druhových možností, s čímž úzce souvisí i jejich značná zranitelnost. Přitom je pro pochopení ekologických souvislostí velmi cenné a důležité, že české populace obývají namnoze stanoviště původního charakteru. Údaje získané výzku- mem takovýchto populací mají neocenitelný význam při další ochraně druhu. Dále je výzkum izolova- ných populací jako takových, na jehož důležitost poukazují rovněž Elbing et al. (1997), velmi zajíma- vý i teoreticky - poskytuje podklad pro další mezipopulační srovnání s jinými obdobnými populacemi, existujícími např. v Německu, které podrobně zkoumali Böker (1990 a, b) a Elbing (1997) nebo s popu- lacemi ze souvislého areálu rozšíření. České reliktní autochtonní populace mají mimořádnou vědec- kou a konzervačně biologickou hodnotu a vzhledem ke genetické výjimečnosti související s izolova-ností, fragmentací, malou populační početností, genetickým driftem, sníženou variabilitou a možností výskytu unikátních genetických variant vyžadují i speciální metody konzervačního managementu (srv. Böhme et al. 2007, Joger et al. 2010). Úroveň znalostí o Lacerta viridis z našeho území je zvláště v kontextu s jejich potřebností možno hod- notit jako značně nedostatečnou a útržkovitou, na což mimo jiné upozorňuje i např. Strödicke (1995). Údaje o ní sice přináší např. již Prach (1861), dále pak Štěpánek (1949), Lác (1968), Opatrný (1973) a řa- da dalších autorů, ale ve většině případů se jedná o informace spíše obecného charakteru (mnohdy bez udání zdrojů), které často zcela opomíjejí některé důležité aspekty biologie tohoto druhu. Zajímavé pů- vodní postřehy z ekologie a etologie ještěrky zelené se vyskytují spíše v článcích menšího rozsahu, které se objevují v některých populárnějších přírodovědných časopisech. Jedná se např. o příspěvky Nováka (1954), Houby (1958), Hanáka et al. (1959), Laňky (1965), Vogela (1980) nebo Šapovaliva (1988). Vněj- ší morfologii ještěrky zelené u nás podrobněji zpracovali Šapovaliv (1980 -nepubl.) a Lomičková (1990 – nepubl.), dentici se podrobně věnuje Roček (1980). Řadu poznatků týkajících se ekologie a etologie (hlavně epigamních projevů) pak přináší Šapovaliv (1980 - nepubl., 1988) a Horáčková (1970 – nepubl.). Podrobnější fenologická data jsou k dispozici pouze ze sousedního Slovenska v práci Holece et Kmini- aka (1970). Z výše uvedeného jednoznačně vyplývá naléhavá potřeba studií zaměřených na bližší po- znání všech aspektů biologie Lacerta viridis u nás, což je i cílem námi předkládané práce.
Fischer, H. (1890) -
Fischer, J. G. (1885) -
Fischer, J. v. (1884) -
Fischer, J. v. (1888) -
Fischer, J. von (1887) -
Fischer, J.G. (1885) -
Fischer, J.G. (1886) -
Fischer, J.G. (1888) -
Fischer, K. (1960) -
Fischer, K. (1961) -
Fischer, K. (1967) -
Fischer, K. (1968) -
Mit dem Ende der Refraktärperiode im November ist das Fortpflanzungssystem der männlichen Ruineneidechse (Lacerta sicula campestrisBetta) nicht sofort wieder voll reaktionsbereit für 12- und 14stündige Photoperioden bei hohen Temperaturen. Die Reaktionsbereitschaft nimmt vielmehr langsam im Laufe des Winters zu und erreicht im März spontan eine Schwelle, von der an die Spermiohistogenese auch unter ungünstigsten Bedingungen (Dauerdunkel, 5–6° C) anläuft. 2. Die mangelnde endogene Reaktionsbereitschaft des Fortpflanzungssystems kann von November an nach Beendigung der Regenerationsphase durch einen 16stündigen Langtag ausgeglichen werden. 3. Mit der Zunahme der endogenen Reaktionsbereitschaft verschiebt sich die optimale Wirksamkeit der Photoperioden in Verein mit hohen Temperaturen mehr und mehr nach den kürzeren Lichtzeiten und liegt schließlich im Juni bei 8 und 10 Std. 4. Überschreitet die Photoperiode bei einer bestimmten endogenen Reaktionsbereitschaft des Hypophysen-Gonaden-Systems den optimalen Wert um 2–4 Std, so schlägt die fördernde Wirkung der Tageslänge in eine hemmende um, und die Regressionsphase setzt ein. 5. Im Anschluß an die Regenerationsphase kann bei einer vorzeitigen Aktivierung im Winter das Fortpflanzungssystem einerseits durch hohe Temperaturen (28–30° C) und andererseits durch die Photoperiode gesteuert werden. Dabei sind die jeweiligen Anteile von Temperaturen und Photoperioden an der Gonadenstimulation in Lichtzeiten von 6–20 Std nicht ohne weiteres voneinander zu trennen, da die Strahlungswärme der Lampen nur schwer zu erfassen ist. 6. Bietet man den Tieren jedoch Dauerlicht oder eine extrem kurze Photoperiode von nur 4 Std bei 28–30° C, so wird jetzt das Fortpflanzungssystem nur noch durch die Temperatur beeinflußt. In beiden Fällen erreicht die spermiohistogenetische Aktivität dieselbe Intensität, wie in den zu dieser Zeit besonders wirksamen 12- und 14-stündigen Photoperioden. In den dazwischenliegenden Lichtzeiten ist die Hodenaktivität entweder völlig gehemmt oder doch wesentlich schwächer. 7. Hält man andererseits Ruineneidechsen im Dezember in stufenweise verlängerten Photoperioden (9,30<14 h) bei sehr niedrigen Temperaturen (5,5–9,5° C), so setzt trotzdem in 4 Wochen die Spermiohistogenese ein. Da die Vorzugstemperatur bei dieser Eidechsenart bei etwa 40° C liegt, kann die Umgebungstemperatur in diesen Kaltversuchen keine oder doch nur eine sehr untergeordnete Rolle gespielt haben. Die Auslösung der spermiohistogenetischen Aktivität muß damit unter solchen Bedingungen in erster Linie auf den Einfluß der Photoperiode zurückgeführt werden. 8. Eine Stimulierung des Nebenhodens war in diesen Kaltversuchen nicht zu beobachten. Da die Spermiohistogenese jedoch angelaufen war, spricht das Ausbleiben einer Reaktion im Nebenhoden für eine primäre Bildung der Androgene in den Leydigschen Zwischenzellen. Es kann dabei nicht entschieden werden, ob das Ausbleiben der sekretorischen Aktivität im Nebenhoden auf eine fehlende Abgabe des ICSH oder auf eine zu schwache Hormonproduktion im Interstitium zurückzuführen ist.
Der Spermatogenesezyklus der Ruineneidechse (Lacerta sicula campestrisBetta) weist im natürlichen Tag-Nacht-Wechsel (Standort Göttingen) bei Zimmertemperatur eine Jahresperiodik mit nur einer Phase spermiohisto-genetischer Aktivität (Mitte März bis Ende Juni) auf. 2. Das Fortpflanzungssystem läßt sich schon wieder im Winter (ab Mitte Dezember) durch lange Photoperioden und hohe Temperaturen aktivieren. 3. Überführt man im August oder September — also während der Regenerations-phase — Ruineneidechsen in einen 14: 10stündigen Langtag bei hoher Temperatur, so wirkt diese Reizkombination stark hemmend auf das Fortpflanzungssystem. Die Tiere sind demnach in der Regenerationsphase refraktär gegen lange Lichtzeiten bei hohen Temperaturen wie viele Vögel der gemäßigten Zonen und einige Fsche. 4. Die Refraktärperiode geht Ende November zu Ende. 5. Im Gegensatz zu Vögeln der gemäßigten Zonen haben bei dieser Eidechsenart weder abnehmende Tageslänge, noch Kurztag bei hohen Temperaturen einen Einfluß auf das Ende der Refraktärperiode. Hält man die Tiere aber im Sommer 4 Wochen lang in Dauerdunkel und bei niedriger Temperatur (5–6°C), so ist die Regenerationsphase sofort zu Ende. 6. Spielt man in der Refraktärperiode Langtag gegen niedrige Temperaturen aus, so zeigt sich, daß bei der Ruineneidechse die niedrige Temperatur der primäre reaktivierende Faktor ist. Kurztag und Dauerdunkel sind nur von sekundärer Bedeutung.
Fischer, K. (1969) -
Fischer, K. (1970) -
Überführt man männliche Ruineneidechsen (Lacerta sicula campestris Betta) am 15. 10. nach 2wöchigem Aufenthalt in den Winterquartieren (8–11° C, Dauerdunkel = DD) in einen zunächst wachsenden, dann konstanten Licht-Dunkel-Wechsel (LD) bei 28–30° C, so reicht dies nicht aus, eine verfrühte progressive Phase auszulösen; die Refraktärperiode ist noch nicht zu Ende. 2. Die Hemmung des Fortpflanzungssystems bleibt bei diesen Tieren bis zum Februar bestehen. Von März an bis zum Juni wird sie dann jedoch durch endogene Faktoren überspielt, und die Spermiohistogenese setzt ein, und zwar ohne Verzögerung im Vergleich zu den Kontrollen aus dem natürlichen LD bei Zimmertemperatur. 3. Dieselben Befunde erhält man, wenn die Eidechsen bereits am 15. 9. in einen LD 14∶10 bei 28–30° C gebracht werden. 4. Eine 4wöchige Verzögerung im Einsetzen der Spermiohistogenese trat erst auf, wenn die Tiere bereits Mitte August in einen LD 14∶10 bei 28–30° C gebracht wurden. 5. Künstliches Verlängern der Winterruhe (DD, 5–6° C) vermag den Beginn der spermiohistogenetischen Aktivität im Frühjahr nicht zu unterbinden und auch nicht zu verzögern im Vergleich zu den Kontrolltieren. 6. Das Ausklingen der progressiven Phase scheint ebenfalls spontan zu erfolgen. Die Gonadenregression ist nach 6wöchigem Aufenthalt in langen Lichtzeiten von 14–18 Std bei 28–30° C im Juni bereits vollendet, im Juli dann aber auch in den kurzen nur 8- und 10stündigen Photoperioden. Bis jetzt kann allerdings ein Einfluß der hohen Haltungstemperaturen auf diese Vorgänge noch nicht endgültig ausgeschlossen werden. 7. Die Hodenregression ist auch spontan im Juli bei den Ruineneidechsen eingetreten, die seit dem 15. 10. des vorangegangenen Jahres in langer Photoperiode und bei hoher Temperatur gelebt hatten. 8. In allen Versuchen, die progressive Phase zu verzögern, verliefen die Vorgänge im Keimepithel relativ unbehindert. Zum Teil recht beachtliche Störungen waren dagegen bei der Veränderung der Hodengewichte und vor allem bei den Vorgängen im Nebenhoden zu beobachten. Ob das fast völlige Ausbleiben der Nebenhodenaktivität auf eine mangelnde Hormonproduktion in den Gonaden selbst zurückzuführen ist, oder ob zwei unterschiedlich stark an eine Jahresuhr gekoppelte Vorgänge im Fortpflanzungssystem vorliegen, muß noch offen bleiben.
Fischer, K. (1971) -
The function of the gonads has been studied in male lizards (Lacerta sicula campestris Betta) obtained from Bologna, Italy. The animals were kept at room temperature and were exposed to the normal seasonal variations of day and night (Göttingen, Germany: φ = 51,32°). Under these conditions there is an annual reproductive cycle. From the middle of March to the end of June to the beginning of July there is a phase of spermiohistogenetic activity (progressive phase). The mature spermatozoa are expelled from the seminal tubules at some time from May up to July; the progressive phase then comes to an end and the testes collapse (regressive phase). From June–August onwards the germinal epithelium begins to prepare for the reproductive period in the following spring, and there is a proliferation of spermatogonia (regenerative phase; refractory-period). During hibernation, which starts early in October, there is a cessation of activity, involving both the proliferation of spermatogonia, and the transformation of the products of their division into spermatocytes I. and II. In the following spring, as soon as hibernation is ended, there is a rapid resumption of spermiohistogenesis. From experiments and related hypotheses, an attempt is made to explain how certain factors control the course of events in the reproductive system, so that spermiohistogenesis occurs at a particular season of the year. These factors include exposure to light for short or for long periods, raising or lowering the temperature, and endogenous factors.
Fischer, K. (1996) -
Fischer, K. & Birukow, G. (1960) -
Fischer, K. & Buchner, M. & Overbeck, U. (1978) -
Fischer, K. & Ewald, R. (1972) -
Männliche Ruineneidechsen wurden zwischen dem 1. und 15. 10. 1965 und 1968 in Photoperioden von 14, 16 und 18 Std bei 28–30 ° C überführt. Diese Reizkombinationen wirkten auf das Fortpflanzungssystem stark hemmend. Die Tiere befanden sich demnach bei Versuchsbeginn noch in der Refraktärperiode. 2. Im darauffolgenden Frühjahr setzte dann jedoch zumindest bei einem Teil der Tiere aus den 3 Versuchsserien die Spermiohistogenese ein. 3. Die Stärke der exogenen Hemmung war dabei abhängig von der Tageslänge: je länger die Photoperiode, desto stärker die Hemmung. 4. Eine Verzögerung im Beginn der Spermiohistogenese um etwa 2 Monate, verglichen mit den Vorgängen unter natürlichen Bedingungen, war jedoch nur im LD 18∶6 bei 28–30 ° C zu beobachten. 5. Eine ähnliche Zunahme in der Hemmung der Regenerationsvorgänge im Fortpflanzungssystem vom Ende, über Mitte, nach etwa Beginn der Refraktärperiode zeigte sich auch im LD 14∶10 bei hohen Temperaturen. 6. Das Fortpflanzungssystem wird während der Regeneration und der progressiven Phase offensichtlich über 2 Außenfaktoren gesteuert. Im Photoperiodebereich von ca. 6 bis etwa 18 Std bei 28–30 ° C werden die Vorgänge primär von der Lichtzeit beeinflußt. In den anderen Photoperiodebereichen scheint dagegen die hohe Temperatur wichtiger zu sein. 7. Das Ende der progressiven Phase im Juli–August steht nach neueren Befunden primär unter der Kontrolle hoher Umgebungstemperaturen.
Fischer, M. & Fischer, K. (1971) -
Behandelt man männliche Ruineneidechsen während der Refraktärperiode mit ICSH, Testosteron, FSH und LTH, so zeigt sich im Ductus epididymidis nur unter dem Einfluß des FSH und des LTH eine positive Reaktion. Mit dem Taubenkropftest ließ sich zu verschiedenen Zeiten (August 1970 bis Januar 1971) Prolactin in der Hypophyse männlicher Ruineneidechsen nachweisen.
Fish, A.C.M. (2016) -
An eight-week study in open areas of Collyweston Great Wood and Eastern Hornstocks NNR utilised 120 coverboards laid in groups of 20 with alternating felt and black corrugated roof sheeting construction materials. Adult slow-worms (Anguis fragilis) showed no significant preference for lying beneath coverboards of either material, but juvenile slow-worms were significantly more likely to be found beneath felt and common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) were significantly more likely to be found basking on corrugated roof sheeting. Numbers of A. fragilis fluctuated significantly week on week, and more slow-worms were found during the afternoon than during mornings. The significance of these results is discussed with particular reference to the importance of considering construction materials, time of sampling and weather conditions when planning surveys of reptiles utilising coverboards.
Fitch, H.S. (1970) -
Fitze, P.S. (2012) -
Fitze, P.S. & Cote, J. & Clobert, J. (2006) -
Fitze, P.S. & Cote, J. & Clobert, J. (2010) -
Recent studies indicate that directional female mate choice and order-dependent female mate choice importantly contribute to non-random mating patterns. In species where females prefer larger sized males, disentangling different hypotheses leading to non-random mating patterns is especially difficult, given that male size usually correlates with behaviours that may lead to non-random mating (e.g. size-dependent emergence from hibernation, male fighting ability). Here we investigate female mate choice and order-dependent female mate choice in the polygynandrous common lizard (Lacerta vivipara). By sequentially presenting males in random order to females, we exclude non-random mating patterns potentially arising due to intra-sexual selection (e.g. male–male competition), trait-dependent encounter probabilities, trait-dependent conspicuousness, or trait-dependent emergence from hibernation. To test for order-dependent female mate choice we investigate whether the previous mating history affects female choice. We show that body size and body condition of the male with which a female mated for the first time were bigger and better, respectively, than the average body size and body condition of the rejected males. There was a negative correlation between body sizes of first and second copulating males. This indicates that female mate choice is dependent on the previous mating history and it shows that the female’s choice criteria are non-static, i.e. non-directional. Our study therefore suggests that context-dependent female mate choice may not only arise due to genotype-environment interactions, but also due to other female mating strategies, i.e. order-dependent mate choice. Thus context-dependent female mate choice might be more frequent than previously thought.
Fitze, P.S. & Cote, J. & Martinez-Rica, J.P. & Clobert, J. (2008) -
Both intra- and inter-sexual selection may crucially determine a male’s fitness. Their interplay, which has rarely been experimentally investigated, determines a male’s optimal reproductive strategy and thus is of fundamental importance to the understanding of a male’s behaviour. Here we investigated the relative importance of intra- and inter-sexual selection for male fitness in the common lizard. We investigated which male traits predict a male’s access to reproduction allowing for both selective pressures and comparing it with a staged mating experiment excluding all types of intra-sexual selection. We found that qualitatively better males were more likely to reproduce and that sexual selection was two times stronger when allowing for both selective pressures, suggesting that inter- and intra-sexual selection determines male fitness and confirming the existence of multi-factorial sexual selection. Consequently, to optimize fitness, males should trade their investment between the traits, which are important for inter- and intra-sexual selection.
Fitze, P.S. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2008) -
Modern sexual selection theory indicates that reproductive costs rather than the operational sex ratio predict the intensity of sexual selection. We investigated sexual selection in the polygynandrous common lizard Lacerta vivipara. This species shows male aggression, causing high mating costs for females when adult sex ratios (ASR) are male-biased. We manipulated ASR in 12 experimental populations and quantified the intensity of sexual selection based on the relationship between reproductive success and body size. In sharp contrast to classical sexual selection theory predictions, positive directional sexual selection on male size was stronger and positive directional selection on female size weaker in female-biased populations than in male-biased populations. Thus, consistent with modern theory, directional sexual selection on male size was weaker in populations with higher female mating costs. This suggests that the costs of breeding, but not the operational sex ratio, correctly predicted the strength of sexual selection.
Fitze, P.S. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2011) -
Measuring the intensity of sexual selection is of fundamental importance to the study of sexual dimorphism, population dynamics, and speciation. Several indices, pools of individuals, and fitness proxies are used in the literature, yet their relative performances are strongly debated. Using 12 independent common lizard populations, we manipulated the adult sex ratio, a potentially important determinant of the intensity of sexual selection at a particular time and place. We investigated differences in the intensity of sexual selection, as estimated using three standard indices of sexual selection - the standardized selection gradient (b_), the opportunity of selection (I ), and the Bateman gradient (bss)-calculated for different pools of individuals and different fitness proxies.We show that results based on estimates of I were the opposite of those derived from the other indices, whereas results based on estimates of b_ were consistent with predictions derived from knowledge about the species’ mating system. In addition, our estimates of the strength and direction of sexual selection depended on both the fitness proxy used and the pool of individuals included in the analysis. These observations demonstrate inconsistencies in distinct measures of sexual selection and underscore the need for caution when comparing studies and species.
Fitze, P.S. & Galliard, J.-F. le & Federici, P. & Richard, M. & Clobert, J. (2005) -
The optimal number of mate partners for females rarely coincides with that for males, leading to a potential sexual conflict over multiple-partner mating. This suggests that the population sex ratio may affect multiple-partner mating and thus multiple paternity. We investigate the relationship between multiple paternity and the population sex ratio in the polygynandrous common lizard (Lacerta vivipara). In six populations the adult sex ratio was biased toward males, and in another six populations the adult sex ratio was biased toward females, the latter corresponding to the average adult sex ratio encountered in natural populations. In males the frequency and the degree of polygyny were lower in male-biased populations, as expected if competition among males determines polygyny. In females the frequency of polyandry was not different between treatments, and polyandrous females produced larger clutches, suggesting that polyandry might be adaptive. However, in male-biased populations females suffered from reduced reproductive success compared to female-biased populations, and the number of mate partners increased with female body size in polyandrous females. Polyandrous females of male-biased populations showed disproportionately more mating scars, indicating that polyandrous females of male-biased populations had more interactions with males and suggesting that the degree of multiple paternity is controlled by male sexual harassment. Our results thus imply that polyandry may be hierarchically controlled, with females controlling when to mate with multiple partners and male sexual harassment being a proximate determinant of the degree of multiple paternity. The results are also consistent with a sexual conflict in which male behaviors are harmful to females.
Fitze, P.S. & Gonzalez-Jimena, V. & San Jose Garcia, L.M. & San Mauro, D. & Aragón, P. & Suarez, T. & Zardoya, R. (2011) -
Fitze, P.S. & Gonzalez-Jimena, V. & San-Jose Garcia, L.M. & San mauro, D. & Aragón, P. & Suarez, T. & Zardoya, R. (2010) -
Fitze, P.S. & Gonzalez-Jimena, V. & San-Jose, L.M. & Heulin, B. & Sinervo, B. (2014) -
Genetic polymorphism can be maintained over time by negative frequency-dependent (FD) selection induced by Rock-paper-scissors (RPS) social systems. RPS games produce cyclic dynamics, and have been suggested to exist in lizards, insects, isopods, plants, and bacteria. Sexual selection is predicted to accentuate the survival of the future progeny during negative FD survival selection. More specifically, females are predicted to select mates that produce progeny genotypes that exhibit highest survival during survival selection imposed by adult males. However, no empirical evidence demonstrates the existence of FD sexual selection with respect to fitness payoffs of genetic polymorphisms. Here we tested this prediction using the common lizard Zootoca vivipara, a species with three male color morphs (orange, white, yellow) that exhibit morph frequency cycles. In a first step we tested the congruence of the morph frequency change with the predicted change in three independent populations, differing in male color morph frequency and state of the FD morph cycle. Thereafter we ran standardized sexual selection assays in which we excluded alternative mechanisms that potentially induce negative FD selection, and we quantified inter-sexual behavior. The patterns of sexual selection and the observed behavior were in line with context-dependent female mate choice and male behavior played a minor role. Moreover, the strength of the sexual selection was within the magnitude of selection required to produce the observed 3–4-year and 6–8 year morph frequency cycles at low and high altitudes, respectively. In summary, the study provides the first experimental evidence that underpins the crucial assumption of the RPS games suggested to exist in lizards, insects, isopods, and plants; namely, that sexual selection produces negative-FD selection. This indicates that sexual selection, in our study exert by females, might be a crucial driver of the maintenance of genetic polymorphisms.
Fitze, P.S. & Gonzalez-Jimena, V. & San-Jose, L.M. & San Mauro, D. & Zardoya, R. (2012) -
A new species of lacertid lizard of the genus Psammodromus is described from the Iberian Peninsula. Genetic and recently published phenotypic data support the differentiation of Psammodromus hispanicus into three, and not as previously suggested two, distinct lineages. Age estimates, lineage allopatry, the lack of mitochondrial and nuclear haplotype sharing between lineages, ecological niche divergence, and the current biogeographic distribution, indicated that the three lineages correspond to three independent species. Here, we describe a new species, Psammodromus occidentalis sp. n., which is genetically different from the other sand racers and differentiated by the number of femoral pores, number of throat scales, snout shape, head ratio, green nuptial coloration, and number of supralabial scales below the subocular scale. We also propose to upgrade the two previously recognized subspecies, Psammodromus hispanicus hispanicus Fitzinger, 1826 from central Spain and Psammodromus hispanicus edwardsianus (Dugès, 1829) from eastern Spain, to the species level: Psammodromus hispanicus stat. nov. and Psammodromus edwardsianus stat. nov. Given that the holotype of Psammodromus hispanicus was lost, we designate a neotype. We also analysed museum specimens of P. blanci, P. microdactylus and P. algirus to describe differentiation of the Psammodromus hispanicus lineages/species from their closest relatives.
Fitze, P.S. & Gonzalez-Jimena, V. & San-Jose, L.M. & San Mauro, D. & Aragón, P. & Suarez, T. & Zardoya, R. (2011) -
Background Genetic, phenotypic and ecological divergence within a lineage is the result of past and ongoing evolutionary processes, which lead ultimately to diversification and speciation. Integrative analyses allow linking diversification to geological, climatic, and ecological events, and thus disentangling the relative importance of different evolutionary drivers in generating and maintaining current species richness. Results Here, we use phylogenetic, phenotypic, geographic, and environmental data to investigate diversification in the Spanish sand racer (Psammodromus hispanicus). Phylogenetic, molecular clock dating, and phenotypic analyses show that P. hispanicus consists of three lineages. One lineage from Western Spain diverged 8.3 (2.9-14.7) Mya from the ancestor of Psammodromus hispanicus edwardsianus and P. hispanicus hispanicus Central lineage. The latter diverged 4.8 (1.5-8.7) Mya. Molecular clock dating, together with population genetic analyses, indicate that the three lineages experienced northward range expansions from southern Iberian refugia during Pleistocene glacial periods. Ecological niche modelling shows that suitable habitat of the Western lineage and P. h. edwardsianus overlap over vast areas, but that a barrier may hinder dispersal and genetic mixing of populations of both lineages. P. h. hispanicus Central lineage inhabits an ecological niche that overlaps marginally with the other two lineages. Conclusions Our results provide evidence for divergence in allopatry and niche conservatism between the Western lineage and the ancestor of P. h. edwardsianus and P. h. hispanicus Central lineage, whereas they suggest that niche divergence is involved in the origin of the latter two lineages. Both processes were temporally separated and may be responsible for the here documented genetic and phenotypic diversity of P. hispanicus. The temporal pattern is in line with those proposed for other animal lineages. It suggests that geographic isolation and vicariance played an important role in the early diversification of the group, and that lineage diversification was further amplified through ecological divergence.
Fitze, P.S. & San-Jose, L.M. & Meylan, S. & Isaksoon, C. & Andersson, S. & Rossi, S.M. & Clobert, J. (2009) -
Under chronic stress, carotenoid-based colouration has often been shown to fade. However, the ecological and physiological mechanisms that govern colouration still remain largely unknown. Colour changes may be directly induced by the stressor (for example through reduced carotenoid intake) or due to the activation of the physiological stress response (PSR, e.g. due to increased blood corticosterone concentrations). Here, we tested whether blood corticosterone concentration affected carotenoid-based colouration, and whether a trade-off between colouration and PSR existed. Using the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara), we correlatively and experimentally showed that elevated blood corticosterone levels are associated with increased redness of the lizard`s belly. In this study, the effects of corticosterone did not depend on carotenoid ingestion, indicating the absence of a trade-off between colouration and PSR for carotenoids. While carotenoid ingestion increased blood carotenoid concentration, colouration was not modified. This suggests that carotenoid-based colouration of common lizards is not severely limited by dietary carotenoid intake. Together with earlier studies, these findings suggest that the common lizard`s carotenoid-based colouration may be a composite trait, consisting of fixed (e.g. genetic) and environmentally elements, the latter reflecting the lizard`s PSR.
Fitzinger, L.I. (1826) -
Fitzinger, L.I. (1843) -
Fitzinger, L.J. (1823) -
Fitzinger, L.J. (1824) -
Fitzpatrick, S.W. (2017) -
FitzSimons, V. (1933) -
FitzSimons, V. (1935) -
FitzSimons, V. (1937) -
The available material of the collection of reptiles and amphibians collected and described from 1831 by Andrew Smith, is re-examined to determine in how far it may be regarded as typical. A complete list of the new species described by Smith, together with notes and comments pertaining thereto, is given. Illustrated with a plate on the type specimen of Pelusios sinuatis.
FitzSimons, V.F. (1943) -
Fitzsimons, V.F.M. (1938) -
FitzSimons, V.F.M. (1947) -
Fjellström, J. (2018) -
The use of Artificial Cover Objects (ACOs) for inventorying and monitoring of reptile diversity has become increasingly common, though few studies have investigated how occurrence and sampling success (encounters per ACO per day) varies with environmental factors when using ACOs. This study is based on data from Sandsjöbacka ecoduct and its surroundings in southwestern Sweden, where there is an ongoing monitoring program. Sixty-five plywood coverboards the first year and 15 more the next year were placed in a system of points along transects and checked 22 times (1595 shelter checks) between the year 2017 and 2018. These counts were combined with vegetation analyses and complemented with data of ambient temperature from SMHI, the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute. A total of 129 reptiles belonging to six species was found: grass snake (Natrix natrix), smooth snake (Coronella austriaca), sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara), slowworm (Anguis fragilis) and adder (Vipera berus). There was no correlation between temperature and sampling success. DFA revealed a significant discrimination between ACOs with and without reptiles, and two of eight vegetation variables, proportion of shrubs and proportion of bare ground, were best at separating the two groups. Bare ground tended to have a negative effect on reptile occurrence, while the tendency for shrubs was the opposite. Most observations (81% of all reptiles) and encounter rates (0.065 counts per ACO per day versus 0.081 totally) were associated with slow worm (European glass lizard), and therefore the data mainly reflect activity of this species.
Flechoso, M.F. & Morales, J. & Lizana, M. & González, I. (2015) -
Flottmann, H.-J. (2010) -
Flottmann, H.-J. (2011) -
Flottmann, H.-J. & Flottmann-Stoll, A. (2015) -
Neben Rheinland-Pfalz und Baden-Württemberg zählt das Saarland zum Hauptverbreitungsgebiet der Mauereidechse in Deutschland. Dabei zählen insbesondere die Vorkommen im Nordwesten des Saarlandes an der Saarschleife seither zu den natürlichen Standorten im Bundesland. Im Übrigen ist u.a. die Besiedlung der meisten Bahnanlagen, zahlreicher Brachen der Montanindustrie und Bergbaufolgelandschaften, ehemalige und rezente Steinbrüche sowie teilweise auch Sandgruben, Kloster- oder Burgruinen und Ausgrabungsstätten nachgewiesen. Insbesondere das Eisenbahnnetz hat hier offensichtlich eine hohe Bedeutung in Bezug auf das Vernetzungspotential der Mauereidechse. Die Art gilt derzeit saarlandweit als ungefährdet.
Flower, S.S. (1933) -
Foa, A. (1991) -
A marked interspecific variability in the role played by the pineal and the retinae characterizes the circadian system of lizards. I examined the role played by these structures in a new model species, the ruin lizard, Podarcis sicula. In constant temperature and darkness pinealectomy as well as bilateral removal of the retinae produced significant changes (both lengthening and shortening) in the freerunning period of locomotor rhythms. Circadian activity time was also affected by pinealectomy. Circadian locomotor rhythmicity persisted in all cases even when both operations were combined in the same individuals. This demonstrates in Podarcis sicula the existence of an oscillatory system outside the pineal and the retinae which can drive locomotor rhythms. The period changes recorded after pinealectomy as well as after bilateral removal of the retinae specifically suggest that both the pineal and the retinae play a modulating role on circadian oscillators located elsewhere in the system, with the final effect of stabilizing the overt rhythms.
Foa, A. & Basaglia, F. & Beltrami, G. & Garnacina, M. & Moretto, E. & Bertolucci, C. (2009) -
The present study examined for the first time whether a Morris water-maze can be used to explore compass and other orientation mechanisms in the ruin lizard Podarcis sicula. In the open field, during sunny days, lizards were individually trained to swim from the center of the water maze onto a hidden platform (the goal), positioned at the periphery of the maze in a single compass direction. The goal was invisible because it was placed just beneath the water surface and the water was rendered opaque. The results showed that lizards learn to swim directly towards the hidden goal under the sun in the absence of visual feature cues. We further examined whether the observed orientation response would be due to lizards learning the spatial position of the goal relative to the sun’s azimuth, i.e. to the use of a time-compensated sun compass. Lizards reaching learning criteria were subjected to 6h clock-shift (fast or slow), and tested for goal orientation in the Morris water-maze. Results demonstrated that the learned orientation response is mediated by a time-compensated sun compass. Further investigations provided direct evidence that in ruin lizards an intact parietal eye is required to perform goal orientation under the sun inside a Morris water-maze, and that other brain photoreceptors, like the pineal or deep brain photoreceptors, are not involved in orientation.
Foà, A. & Bearzi, M. & Baldaccini, N.E. (1990) -
Foá, A. & Bertolucci, C. (2001) -
The daily locomotor activity pattern of Ruin lizards in the field is mainly unimodal, except for summer months when soil temperatures exceed 40 °C to 42 °C around midday. In such a situation, lizards reduce their locomotor activity around midday to avoid overheating, and thus their daily activity pattern becomes bimodal. The bimodal pattern expressed in the field is usually retained in the free-running rhythm under constant temperature and DD for a couple of weeks, after which the bimodal pattern changes into a unimodal pattern. In the present study, the authors examined whether 24-h temperature cycles (TCs) would change lizard activity from a unimodal to a bimodal pattern. Administration of TCs to unimodal lizards free-running in DD is able to entrain locomotor rhythms and to induce a bimodal pattern both in summer and autumn-winter. There are, however, striking seasonal differences in the effectiveness with which TCs achieve bimodality: (a) Numbers of lizards rendered bimodal are significantly higher in summer than in autumn-winter; (b) TCs require less time to achieve bimodality in summer than autumn-winter; (c) bimodality is retained as an aftereffect in the postentrainment free-run in summer, but not in autumnwinter; (d) TCs change activity duration in summer, but not in autumn-winter. All this demonstrates the existence of seasonal changes in responsiveness of the circadian oscillators controlling activity to the external factors inducing bimodality. Oscillators` responsiveness is high in summer, when bimodality is the survival strategy of Ruin lizards to avoid overheating around midday in open fields, and low in autumn-winter, when bimodality has no recognizable adaptive significance.
Foá, A. & Flamini, M. & Innocenti, A. & Minutini, L. & Monteforti, G. (1993) -
1. Combination of parietalectomy, pinealectomy and retinalectomy in the same individual does not prevent Podarcis sicula from obeying Aschoff`s rule for diurnal animals. 2. In these operated lizards an increase in intensity of constant illumination (LL) shortens the freerunning period of locomotor rhythms, while a decrease in LL intensity has the opposite effect. 3. These results demonstrate that: (i) extraretinal photoreceptors play a role in mediating parametric effects of light on the circadian system (Aschoff`s rule); (ii) extraretinal photoreceptors mediating parametric effects of light lie outside the parietal eye and the pineal.
Foa, A. & Janik, D. Minutini, L. (1992) -
Abstract: Plasma melatonin was measured in lizards (Podarcis sicula) at six different times of day under conditions of constant temperature and darkness. Intact animals showed a circadian rhythm of melatonin with a peak in the subjective night of 207 pg/ml (median) and a trough during the subjective day that was below the minimum detection level of the assay (50 pg/ml). Pinealectomy abolished the circadian rhythm of plasma melatonin; median levels were near or below the minimum detection level at all times sampled. The data suggest that the pineal is the only source of rhythmic blood-borne melatonin in Podarcis sicula, and are consistent with the hypothesis that changes in the free-running period of the locomotor rhythm induced by pinealectomy in this species are due to withdrawal of rhythmic melatonin from the blood.
Foá, A. & Minutini, L. & Innocentia, A. (1992) -
1. Chronic administration of melatonin (in silastic capsules) lengthened the free-running period of the locomotor rhythm and shortened the circadian activity time in Podarcis sicula held in constant temperature and darkness. 2. Lizards displaying a bimodal pattern of activity invariably became unimodal after melatonin administration. 3. The results support the hypothesis that melatonin acts as a coupling device between circadian oscillators driving the locomotor rhythm in Podarcis sicula.
Foà, A. & Monteforti, G. & Minutini, L. & Innocenti, A. & Quaglieri, C. & Flamini, M. (1994) -
The daily pattern of locomotor activity of the ruin lizard Podarcis sicula in its natural environment changes from unimodal in spring (with only one activity peak per day) to bimodal in summer (with two well-separated activity peaks per day) and it becomes unimodal again in autumn. In order to establish whether such seasonal changes in pattern might be at least in part controlled by endogenous temporal programs, lizards were collected at different times of the year and immediately after capture their locomotor behavior was tested in the laboratory under constant temperature (29°C) and in darkness. For some individuals tested in the laboratory the locomotor pattern previously expressed in the field was known. Seasonal differences in pattern have been unequivocally found to have an endogenous component, as most lizards in constant conditions retained the locomotor pattern shown in the field during the same season. Besides, in the bimodal lizards the freerunning period of locomotor rhythms () was significantly shorter and circadian activity time (a) longer than in the unimodal ones. Altogether the data are compatible with the idea that both the interdependent changes of and a and the changes in locomotor pattern occurring seasonally in the circadian activity rhythms of P. sicula would depend on changes in the phase relationship between mutually coupled oscillators which drive these rhythms.
Foá, A. & Tosini, G. & Avery, R.A. (1992) -
Adult ruin lizards, Podarcis sicula , at a study site near Pisa, Italy, were seen during all months of 1988, but in significantly reduced numbers in January, February, November and December. The length of the diel period during which individuals were observed varied from 2-3 h in mid-winter to 14 h in July and August. High activity, defined as any one-Hour period of the day during which the total number of lizards observed over three days of observation in any month was greater than the 95% confidence limits for the overall mean, was bimodal from April to october inclusive. Bimodality in the activity pattern was particularly pronounced in the hottest months, as low activity, when numbers observed were lower than the C.L. for the overall mean, occurred during the central hours of the day (1200-1400 h) in July and August. Low activity was also recorded at the beginning and end of the active period in all months from February to November. The diel cycles of juveniles (lizards less that 6 months old) appeared to be less structured than those of adults.
Fodere, F.E. (1821) -
Foekema, G.M.M. (1973) -
Foekema, G.M.M. (1976) -
In Tunesia during the second half of the month October six species of amphibians and reptiles were seen: Rana ridibunda perezi (Sousse), Bufo v. viridis (Sousse, Enfida), Tarentola mauritanica (Sousse), Psammodromus algirus (Sousse, El Djem, Hammamet). Arab names for amphibian (Hammamet), Acanthodactylus sp. (Hammamet) and Lacerta lepida pater (El Fahs), and reptile species, given by boys from Enfida, differ on many points from the names given by Doumergue (1901) for the region of Oran.
Foekema, G.M.M. (1978) -
Fofonjka, A. (2019) -
Depuis l`origine des sciences computationnelles, les simulations numériques ont facilité l’étude des mécanismes générant les formes et les couleurs qui composent les organismes vivants. Alain Turing, souvent considéré comme l’un des pères de l`informatique, dans son célèbre article Chemical basis of morphogenesis, suggère qu`un mécanisme auto-organisationnel guide la formation de motifs durant la morphogénèse. Les modèles de Turing ont largement contribué à la compréhension des processus impliqués dans le développement des patrons de coloration de la peau et de motifs émergeants de la croissance différentielle des tissus. Un processus distinct, l`obtention d`un état d`énergie minimale par déformation suite à des instabilités élastique induites par disparité de croissance de tissus adjacents, permet également de générer des motifs morphologiques. Dans ce contexte, j`ai employé la modélisation mathématique, l`analyse graphique ainsi que le calcul parallèle afin d`expliquer l`émergence de la structure pliée de la collerette érectile du dragon australien (Chlamydosaurus kingii) ainsi que la formation de motifs cutanés colorés chez le lézard ocellé (Timon Lepidus). Soumis à des compressions suffisamment larges, découlant de la croissance homogène de la peau physiquement contrainte par ses connexions aux tissus adjacents, la surface de la collerette du lézard Chlamydosaurus subit une instabilité mécanique qui conduit à la formation d`un motif ondulant à trois stries convexes. En appliquant des reconstructions volumétriques réalistes, des mesures de croissance embryonnaire, d`épaisseur et de rigidité du tissu impliqué, le modèle computationnel indique que l`instabilité mécanique à elle seule suffit à reproduire la transition de deux à trois stries observée durant le développement embryonnaire de la collerette du lézard Chlamydosaurus. !9 Le motif coloré de la peau dorsale du lézard ocellé consiste en une juxtaposition d`écailles uniformément vertes ou noires. Ce motif se forme durant les premières années du développement de l`animal par le changement de couleur d`écailles individuelles. Ce processus peut être modélisé par un automate cellulaire probabiliste, survenant suite à des processus d’interactions de cellules pigmentaires se produisant dans la peau de géométrique complexe. En exploitant un mécanisme de Turing, l`analyse de distribution spatiale des cellules pigmentaires et d`un modèle numérique à trois dimensions, je montre que la géométrie de la peau est suffisante pour expliquer le motif des écailles uniformément colorées. En outre, en appliquant une méthode de réduction de dimension, qui projette un domaine 3D vers un domaine 2D, j`ai développé un modèle numérique hautement optimisé qui me permet de produire des simulations de réaction-diffusion combinée à la croissance tissulaire. Dans ce cadre, je démontre que la croissance de l`animal, couplée à une géométrie complexe de la peau, génère une séquence de motifs par changement de couleur d`écailles individuelles. De surcroît, les motifs générés présentent une décroissance de la taille caractéristique du motif hautement similaire à celle observée chez les lézards ocellés.
Fogliano, C. & Motta, C.M. & Avallone, B. (2022) -
It is known that ototoxicity is the main cause of toxicity induced by aminoglycoside antibiotics. Effects on cochlea and vestibule in vertebrates are variable, depending on the typology of the aminoglycoside and the animal model examined. Despite this, they are routinely used to prevent postoperative and urinary tract infections and in the treatment of tuberculosis and cystic fibrosis. Gentamicin causes hearing loss by damaging stereocilia and by causing degeneration of hair cells due to free radical formation and eventual activation of caspase-dependent pathways. Its toxicity increases with the frequency of administration, dose concentration, and duration of treatment. Turnover of new hair cells may occur spontaneously, throughout life, or may be triggered by an acoustic or ototoxic insult to replace dead cells. Turnover and repair of damage are common in fish and amphibians and in birds` vestibule. In contrast, in the papilla basilaris of birds, and in the vestibule of mammals, hair cell regeneration is activated only after damage. Sensory epithelium repair and hair cell regeneration also occur in the reptiles` vestibule, but no data is available on regeneration or repair in the basilar papilla, involved in sound perception. The purpose of this work is therefore to assess the damage induced by gentamicin on the papilla basilaris of a reptile model organism, the Lacertidae Podarcis siculus. Recovery was also evaluated 3, 8 and 18 days after the end of exposure, in absence of gentamicin and in presence of the otoprotective salicylate. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was carried out to check for morphological damage while the occurrence of cell proliferation events was evaluated by fluorescence microscopy, after administration of 5-Bromo-2`-deoxyuridine (BrdU). Results show that salicylate administration facilitates recovery and reduces damage to hair cells after gentamicin treatment. Following the incorporation of bromodeoxyuridine, we demonstrated that sensory epithelium repair and hair cell regeneration have occurred, and that the recovery is due to either proliferation of the supporting cells and/or self-repair of hair cell bundles in the weakly damaged sensory cells.
Fons, R. (1975) -
Fonseca, M.M. & Brito, J.C. & Paulo, O.S. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. (2007) -
Fonseca, M.M. & Brito, J.C. & Paulo, O.S. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. (2009) -
We have used mitochondrial 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA and nuclear β-fibrinogen (intron 7) sequences to investigate the phylogenetic and phylogeographic relationships between Acanthodactylus erythrurus group species (except for A. boueti). The phylogenetic analyses of the Acanthodactylus genus did not cluster A. guineensis and A. savignyi with the remaining species of the group (A. blanci, A. lineomaculatus and A. erythrurus). Within the A. erythrurus group, the results of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and nuclear DNA (nDNA) showed a complex phylogeny with geographic structure, but it was not congruent with the present taxonomy. Some taxonomic units, such as A. blanci, A. lineomaculatus, A. e. atlanticus and A. e. belli did not form monophyletic genetic units. The application of a molecular clock suggested that the uplift of the Atlas Mountains in the mid-late Miocene and the reopening of the Strait of Gibraltar could be major biogeographic events responsible for the genetic differentiation in the group. Additionally, diverse micro-evolutionary patterns due to the recent contraction/expansion phases of the habitats in North Africa associated with the high dispersal capabilities of these lizards could be related to the complex phylogenetic patterns observed.
Fonseca, M.M. & Brito, J.C. & Rebelo, H. & Kalboussi, M. & Larfbes, S. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. (2008) -
he systematics of the genus Acanthodactylus was classically based on external morphological traits, osteological characters and morphology of the hemipenes. Although the identification of sepcies complexes is relatively easy, the destinction within some groups is difficult due to a high variability of the external morphology. Partial mitochondrial (12S and 16S rRNA) sequences (371 and 499 base pairs, respectively) were analysed from 32 specimens of the A. pardalis group from northern Africa including the described species A. busacki, A. maculatus, A. mechriguensis and A. pardalis. Several highly distinct genetic units were resolved, but with little support for relationships between them. These units did not coincide with current taxonomic units, but showed geographic structuring. Although the A. pardalis group displays significant variation, the present taxonomy of the group must be considered unsatisfactory since it is not supported by genetic evidence. For some forms, such as A. mechriguensis there is no support and it is suggested that it should by synonymized with A. maculatus. More data are clearly needed for other forms. Complex microevolutionary patterns due to the recent contraction/expansion phases of the Sahara Desert probably are related with the phylogenetiv patterns observed.
Font, C. & Hoogland, P.V. & Vanderzee, E.V. & Perez Clausell, J. & Martinez Garcia, F. (1995) -
In this paper we study the septal complex architecture in the lizard Podarcis hispanica (Lacertidae). Histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques were used to define the distribution of zinc (Timm stain), acetyl cholinesterase (AChase), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), and two neuropeptides: leu-enkephalin (L-ENK) and substance P (SP). These reactions delineate a coherent map of nine septal nuclei that are named with a topographical nomenclature: anterior, lateral, ventromedial, medial, dorsolateral, ventrolateral, and dorsal septal nuclei, nucleus septalis impar, and nucleus of the posterior pallial commissure. The anterior septal nucleus is characterized by intense reaction for zinc and the presence of fibers immunoreactive for GABA, 5-HT, and L-ENK, which form pericellular nests. The lateral septal nucleus shows intense reaction for zinc, a high density of GABA-immunoreactive cells, and L-ENK-immunoreactive fibers forming basketlike figures around unstained somata. The ventromedial septal nucleus shows intense AChase reactivity, a dense network of 5-HT-immunoreactive fibers, and virtually no labeling for the other histochemical stains. The medial septal nucleus is defined by heavy reactivity for zinc, dense DA/TH and L-ENK innervations, and the presence of L-ENK-immunoreactive cells. The dorsolateral septal nucleus shows intense AChase staining in the neuropile and a dense network of fibers immunoreactive for 5-HT and DA/TH, but it shows low staining for zinc, The ventrolateral septal nucleus shows L-ENK-immunoreactive cells and a dense L-ENK innervation, but low reactivity for zinc. The dorsal septal nucleus, intermingled with the fimbrial fibers, shows a dense population of GABA-immunoreactive cells and terminals, but it is unreactive for zinc. Two subdivisions can be established in this dorsal septal nucleus: the dorsal part, intensely reactive for AChase and innervated by 5-HT fibers, and the central part, which shows L-ENK-immunoreactive neurons and fibers without reactivity for either AChase or 5-HT. The nucleus septalis impar, traversed by the fibers of the anterior pallial commissure (mildly reactive for zinc), shows reaction for AChase but low (if present) reactivity for the remaining markers. The nucleus of the posterior pallial commissure shows a generally low reactivity for the histochemical reactions employed. The distribution of these markers is similar to that found in other squamate reptiles and allows for a direct comparison with the septal formation of mammals. Such a comparison reintorces the view that the limbic system has undergone a conservative evolution within vertebrates.
Font, C. & Lanuza, E. & Martinez-Marcos, A. & Hoogland, P. van & Martinez-Garcia, F. (1998) -
The projections of the septum of the lizard Podarcis hispanica (Lacertidae) were studied by combining retrograde and anterograde neuroanatomical tracing. The results confirm the classification of septal nuclei into three main divisions. The nuclei composing the central septal division (anterior, lateral, medial, dorsolateral, and ventrolateral nuclei) displayed differential projections to the basal telencephalon, preoptic and anterior hypothalamus, lateral hypothalamic area, dorsal hypothalamus, mammillary complex, dorsomedial anterior thalamus, ventral tegmental area, interpeduncular nucleus, raphe nucleus, torus semicircularis pars laminaris, reptilian A8 nucleus/substantia nigra and central gray. For instance, only the medial septal nucleus projected substantially to the thalamus whereas the anterior septum was the only nucleus projecting to the caudal midbrain including the central gray. The anterior and lateral septal nuclei also differ in the way in which their projection to the preoptic hypothalamus terminated. The midline septal division is composed of the dorsal septal nucleus, nucleus septalis impar and nucleus of the posterior pallial commissure. The latter two nuclei projected to the lateral habenula and, at least the nucleus of the posterior pallial commissure, to the mammillary complex. The dorsal septal nucleus projected to the preoptic and periventricular hypothalamus and the anterior thalamus, but its central part seemed to project to the caudal midbrain (up to the midbrain central gray). Finally, the ventromedial septal division (ventromedial septal nucleus) showed a massive projection to the anterior and the lateral tuberomammillary hypothalamus. Data on the connections of the septum of P. hispanica and Gecko gekko are discussed from a comparative point of view and used for better understanding of the functional anatomy of the tetrapodian septum.
Font, C. & Martinez-Marcos, A. & Lanuza, E. & Hoogland, P. van & Martinez-Garcia, F. (1997) -
The afferent connections to the septal complex were studied in the lizard Podarcis hispanica (Lacertidae) by means of a combination of retrograde and anterograde tracing. The results of these experiments allow us to classify the septal nuclei into three main divisions. The central septal division (anterior, lateral, dorsolateral, ventrolateral, and medial septal nuclei plus the nucleus of the posterior pallial commissure) receives a massive, topographically organized, cortical projection (medial, dorsal, and ventral areas) and widespread afferents from the tuberomammillary hypothalamus and the basal telencephalon. Moreover, it receives discrete projections from the dorsomedial anterior thalamus, the ventral tegmentum, the midbrain raphe, and the locus coeruleus. The ventromedial septal division (ventromedial septal nucleus) receives a massive projection from the anterior hypothalamus, dense serotonergic innervation, and a faint amygdalohypothalamic projection, but it is devoid of direct cortical input. The midline septal division (nucleus septalis impar and dorsal septal nucleus) receives a nontopographic cortical projection (dorsomedial and dorsal cortices) and afferents from the preoptic hypothalamus, the dorsomedial anterior thalamus, the midbrain central gray, and the reptilian A8 nucleus/substantia nigra. Our results indicate that the cortex provides a physiologically complex, massive input to the septum that terminates over the whole dendritic tree of septal cells. In contrast, most of the ascending afferents make axosomatic contacts by means of pericellular nests. The chemical nature of the main septal afferents and the comparative implications of the available hodological data on the organization of the septal complex of tetrapod vertebrates are discussed.
Font, E. (2019) -
Mammals and birds are capable of navigating to a goal using learned map-like representations of space (i.e. place learning), but research assessing this navigational strategy in reptiles has produced inconclusive results, in part due to the use of procedures that do not take account of the peculiarities of reptilian behavior and physiology. Here I present a procedure suitable for testing spatial cognition that exploits a naturally evolved, ethologically relevant ability common to many lizards (i.e. refuge seeking behavior). The procedure requires lizards to learn the location of an open refuge inside a rectangular arena containing artificial refuges in every corner, using distal extramaze visual cues and with no local cues marking the location of the open refuge. The procedure probes the lizards’ place learning ability and effectively rules out the use of egocentric and response-based strategies. The described procedure was successfully used to demonstrate place learning in a lacertid lizard (Podarcis liolepis). Over the course of two weeks of training both the latency to entering the open refuge and the number of corners visited in each trial decreased gradually, indicating that learning had taken place in over 60% of the lizards tested. These results confirm that, under certain circumstances, lizards are capable of navigating to a goal using a place learning strategy.
Font, E. & Barbosa, D. & Sampedro, C. & Carazo, P. (2012) -
Lacertid lizards have been hailed as a model system for the study of reptilian chemical communication. However, results obtained with the genus Podarcis, a diverse group of wall lizards with complex systematics, challenge emerging paradigms and caution against hasty generalizations. Here we review the available evidence on the role of chemical stimuli in male–female and male–male interactions in Iberian Podarcis. Males of several species can discriminate between chemicals left on substrates by females of their own or a different species, suggesting that differences in female chemical cues may underlie species recognition in this group. Females, on the other hand, do not respond differentially to conspecific and congeneric male scent marks. Males of Podarcis liolepis use scent marks to recognize rivals individually, evaluate their competitive ability (i.e., body size), and assess the threat posed by each individual rival neighbor. In contrast, females do not exhibit a preference for territories scent marked by larger (i.e., more competitive) males, which suggests a limited role for male scent marks in pre-copulatory mate choice. This behavioral sex difference is consistent with detailed neuro-ethological evidence showing that chemosensory brain areas in P. liolepis are sexually dimorphic. The accessory olfactory bulbs are larger (both in absolute and relative terms) in males than in females, probably as a result of sex-specific rates of adult neurogenesis. In both sexes, cell proliferation undergoes seasonal cycles that may have evolved to satisfy increased chemosensory demands at particular times of the year. Overall, and against recent generalizations, these results suggest that male scent marks have been shaped mainly by strong intrasexual selection.
Font, E. & Carazo, P. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Barbosa, D. (2010) -
Font, E. & Carazo, P. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Kramer, M. (2012) -
Reports an error in `Predator-elicited foot shakes in wall lizards ( Podarcis muralis): Evidence for a pursuit-deterrent function` by Enrique Font, Pau Carazo, Guillem Pérez i de Lanuza and Matthew Kramer ( Journal of Comparative Psychology, 2012[Feb], Vol 126[1], 87-96). Figure 2 should have been represented in color. The online version has been corrected. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 2012-04021-001.) Under certain circumstances, prey may inform potential predators of their unprofitability by means of pursuit-deterrent signals. The evidence for pursuit-deterrent signaling in reptiles is scant and taxonomically biased. Wall lizards, Podarcis muralis (Squamata: Lacertidae) produce several distinct types of stereotyped foot shake displays, of which one, performed in antipredator contexts, is a likely candidate for a pursuit-deterrent function. We investigated this possibility by recording the responses of lizards in the field to a slowly approaching human acting as a surrogate predator. In addition to starting and flight initiation distances, we measured the presence of foot shakes, the leg that was shaken, and the distance from the observer at which the display was performed (display distance). Of a total of 484 approaches, 109 (22.5%) elicited foot shake displays. Roughly half the lizards displayed from the location where they were first sighted, while the other half moved a short distance, then displayed. There was no left-right preference in the leg used to display, but most lizards displayed with the leg closer to the approaching predator. Juveniles and subadults had smaller flight initiation distances than adult lizards. There were no sex-related differences in starting or flight initiation distances, but females, for a given distance, were more likely to display than males. Foot shake display frequency declined abruptly at 1 m. If lizards waited until the surrogate predator was this close, they mostly fled without displaying. Our results show that antipredator foot shaking in P. muralis is consistent with expectations from pursuit-deterrent theory.
Font, E. & Carazo, P. & Pérezu i de Lanuza, G. & Kramer, M. (2012) -
Report an error in «Predator-elicited foot shakes in wall lizards (Podarcis muralis): Evidence for a pursuit-deterrent function» by Enrique Font, Pau Carazo, Guillem Pérez i de Lanuza and Matthew Kramer ( Journal of Comparative Psychology, 2012[Feb], Vol 126[1], 87-96). Figure 2 should have been represented in color. The online version has been corrected. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 2012-04021-001.) Under certain circumstances, prey may inform potential predators of their unprofitability by means of pursuit-deterrent signals. The evidence for pursuit-deterrent signaling in reptiles is scant and taxonomically biased. Wall lizards, Podarcis muralis (Squamata: Lacertidae) produce several distinct types of stereotyped foot shake displays, of which one, performed in antipredator contexts, is a likely candidate for a pursuit-deterrent function. We investigated this possibility by recording the responses of lizards in the field to a slowly approaching human acting as a surrogate predator. In addition to starting and flight initiation distances, we measured the presence of foot shakes, the leg that was shaken, and the distance from the observer at which the display was performed (display distance). Of a total of 484 approaches, 109 (22.5%) elicited foot shake displays. Roughly half the lizards displayed from the location where they were first sighted, while the other half moved a short distance, then displayed. There was no left-right preference in the leg used to display, but most lizards displayed with the leg closer to the approaching predator. Juveniles and subadults had smaller flight initiation distances than adult lizards. There were no sex-related differences in starting or flight initiation distances, but females, for a given distance, were more likely to display than males. Foot shake display frequency declined abruptly at 1 m. If lizards waited until the surrogate predator was this close, they mostly fled without displaying. Our results show that antipredator foot shaking in P. muralis is consistent with expectations from pursuit-deterrent theory.
Font, E. & Desfilis, E. (2001) -
Chemosensory recognition of familiar conspecifics has been reported in studies with members of several lizard families and may be advantageous to distinguish between intruders and neighbors or group members. However, few species have been studied and information on the ability to discriminate between familiar and unfamiliar conspecifics by chemosensory means is lacking for most lizard families. In this paper we ask whether juveniles of the Iberian wall lizard Podarcis hispanica (Lacertidae), can discriminate between chemical signals from familiar conspecifics with whom they have shared a terrarium for several months and those from unfamiliar conspecifics housed in a different terrarium. Experimental trials were conducted by transferring juveniles to a test terrarium with a filter paper substrate. We tested the responses of lizards to paper substrates labeled by familiar cage-mates, unfamiliar conspecifics, or unlabeled. Tongue-flicks and other behaviors in response to pheromonal stimuli were recorded for 10 min Juveniles directed more chemosensory behavior towards paper substrates bearing chemicals from familiar conspecifics than towards similar paper substrates labeled by unfamiliar conspecifics. These results indicate that juveniles in this lizard species can recognize familiar conspecifics and discriminate between familiar and unfamiliar individuals using only chemical stimuli. We discuss the role of habituation in familiar conspecific recognition and review possible explanations of the functional significance of this type of discrimination in lizards.
Font, E. & Ferrer, M.J. (1995) -
Font, E. & Molina-Borja, M. (2001) -
Font, E. & Molina-Borja, M. (2004) -
Bright colors and conspicuous visual displays have been described in many lacertid species. However, previous studies of lacertid coloration and behavior have largely ignored differences between the lizards´ and our own visual perception, including the possibility that the visual range of lacertids extends into the near ultraviolet (UV) region of the spectrum. In this study we use UV photography and reflectance spectrophotometry to document the presence and distribution of UV reflectance in color patches of Gallotia lizards from the Canary Islands. We found considerable reflection of UV light in blue, yellow, and green color patches of different Gallotia species. Fore example, the lateral and ventro-lateral blue patches of G. galloti from Tenerife show a single peak of reflectance with a maximum in the near UV waveband, close to the peak sensitivity of UV retinal cones in lizards with known UV vision. The blue, UV-reflecting patches are present in lizards of either sex. However, These are differences in the spectral shape of blue patches from male and female lizards, particularly in the UV range. We conclude that G. galloti are sexually dichromatic in their own visual world. Furthermore, we found large interindividual differences in the reflectance of blue patches in lizards from the same sex and population. These differences are again most marked in the UV region of the spectrum. We discuss possible functions of UV-reflecting patches in sex recognition, male-male contests, and mutual mate choice.
Font, E. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Cid, P. & Latorre, A. (2007) -
Font, E. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Sampedro, C. (2009) -
Ultraviolet (UV) colorations have garnered extensive theoretical and empirical treatment in recent years, although the majority of studies have concerned themselves with avian taxa. However, many lizards have acute visual systems with retinal photoreceptors that are sensitive to UV wavelengths, and also display UV-reflecting colour patches. In the present study, we used UV photography and full-spectrum reflectance spectrophotometry to describe intra- and intersexual colour variation in adult ocellated lizards Lacerta (Timon) lepida and to obtain evidence of UV-based ornamentation. We also investigated whether any colour traits correlate with morphological traits potentially related to individual quality. The results obtained show that the prominent eyespots and blue outer ventral scales (OVS) that ocellated lizards have on their flanks reflect strongly in the UV range and are best described as UV/blue in coloration. The eyespots of males are larger and cover a larger surface area than those of females. However, these differences can be entirely accounted for by sex differences in body size, with males being generally larger than females. We also found differences in the shape of reflectance curves from males and females, with the eyespots and blue OVS of males being more UV-shifted than those of females. Other body regions have extremely low UV reflectance and are not sexually dichromatic. Eyespot size and the total surface area covered by eyespots increases with body size in males but not in females, suggesting that they may be signalling an intrinsic individual characteristic such as body size or male fighting ability. We also discuss the alternative and non-exclusive hypothesis that eyespots may function in lizards of both sexes as protective markings against predators.
Fontanet, X. & Horta, N. (2008) -
Fontanet, X. & Matallanas, J. (1985) -
Fonteyne, J.J. de la (1959) -
Forcart, L. (1950) -
Forman, F. (1981) -
Forman, F. & Forman, B. (1981) -
Fornberg, J. (2017) -
I assessed the effect of island characteristics and population isolation on the endemic insular lizard Podarcis erhardii and its native hemogregarine parasite Hepatozoon spp. I analyzed the relationships of prevalence, infection likelihood, and parasitemia to several factors at the island (time of isolation, area, distance to nearest larger land mass), population (host density), and organismal (load of hematophagous ectoparasites) levels. My results suggest that smaller islands, as well as islands that have been isolated for longer periods of time, show higher infection rates and higher parasitemia in hosts than others. I also found that distance between a focal island to the nearest larger land mass, as well as the load of hematophagous ectoparasites on an individual, were poor predictors of infection variables in P. erhardii. These results indicate that island area, host population density, and island age are likely to be significant drivers of changes in host-parasite interactions in fragmented populations.
Fornberg, J.L. & Semegen, S.L. (2021) -
The biogeography of host-parasite dynamics is an area that has received little attention in studies of island ecology. While a few studies have shed insight on patterns of parasitism in insular host populations, more empirical evidence is needed to ascertain how isolation impacts parasites. Biogeography generally theorizes that the physical size of islands and the duration of each island’s isolation can be driving geographic factors controlling species interactions and populations dynamics. To test this, we assessed the effect of island structure and population isolation on the endemic insular lizard Podarcis erhardii and its native hemogregarine parasite (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) in the Cyclades (Aegean Sea). We analyzed the relationships of prevalence and parasitemia of hemogregarine infection with several factors concerning the island (size, time of isolation, spatial isolation, population density) and host (body size) levels using regression and structural equation models, respectively. Regressions indicate that islands with greater host density and islands which have been isolated for shorter timespans tend to have higher hemogregarine prevalences; structural equation models suggest a similar pattern for parasitemia. We hypothesize this may be driven by insular density compensation. Hosts on islands that are more temporally and spatially isolated also tend to have higher prevalence and parasitemia of hemogregarines. Our results indicate that island area, island isolation, and host population density are likely to be significant drivers of changes in host-parasite interactions in fragmented populations.
Foronda, J.A.C. (2011) -
Temperature effects on metabolism can be divided into three time scales: acute (Q 10 ), chronic (acclimation), and evolutionary responses (biochemical adaptations). Two introduced populations of Podarcis sicula were examined to determine how thermal acclimation proceeds in this species. Lizards were collected from New York and New Jersey and maintained at 20°C for two months. A pull-through respirometry system was used to measure O 2 consumption of both populations at two acute temperatures (15°C and 30°C) for 24 hours. Each population was then divided into two groups and acclimated to 15°C and 25°C for one month. O 2 consumption was measured again at the same two acute temperatures. Resting metabolic rate comparisons were made between the different chronic treatments. Both populations showed similar metabolic responses to temperature. Lizards showed a depression in metabolic rate between the chronic 20°C and 25°C treatments. Further analysis suggested that the lizards responded to temperature treatments by partial acclimation.
Foronda, P. & Abreu-Acosta, N. & Casanova, J.C. & Ribas, A. & Valladares, B. (2009) -
A new species of anoplocephalid cestode is described from Gallotia atlantica (Reptilia, Lacertidae) on the Canary Islands, Spain. Oochoristica feliui n. sp. belongs to the group of Oochoristica spp. having circular suckers and fewer than 25 testes in a single cluster: O. lygosomae Burt, 1933; O. lygosomatis Skinker, 1935; O. elongata Dupouy et Kechemir, 1973; O. jonnesi Bursey, McAllister and Freed, 1997; O. junkea Johri, 1950; O. macallisteri Bursey and Goldberg, 1996; O. novaezelandae Schmidt and Allison, 1985; O. parvogenitalis Dupouy and Kechemir, 1973; and O. sobolevi (Spasskii, 1948) Spaskii, 1951. Oochoristica feliui n. sp. differs from these species in a variety of characters such as the number of proglottids, size of the scolex and suckers, presence of a neck, size and shape of the ovary (divided into 5-6 lobules), ovoid shape of the vitelline gland, a spined cirrus, size of eggs, oncosphere and oncosphere hooks, and the presence of 2 osmoregulatory canals. Gallotia spp. are endemic to the Canary Islands. This is the first report of an adult cestode species in this lizard.
Foronda, P. & Santana Morales, M. & Oros, J. & Abreu-Costa, N. & Ortega Arivas, A. & Lorenzo Morales, J. & Valladares, B. (2007) -
Intestinal helminths and blood protozoa are common parasites of lizards. In captivity they can be a serious problem, but no information on treatments is available. In this study, several antiparasitic drugs were studied in Gallotia caesaris (Lacertida) from La Gomera, the Canary Islands, Spain. A lack of efficacy of chloroquine, and a decrease in haemogregarine (Apicomplexa) infection by atovaquone-proguanil was demonstrated. Furthermore, a positive effect of fenbendazole against intestinal nematode infection was observed. In the Canary Islands, Gallotia bravoana and Gallotia simonyi (Lacertida) are included in a captive breading recovery plan. The present results are useful in order to keep these animals in good condition and to control their parasites. Moreover, these results are important for reptiles kept as pets, due to the previous lack of knowledge of parasite management.
Forslund, K.-H. (1959) -
Fossi, M.C. & Sanchez-Hernandez,J.C. Diaz-Diaz, R. & Garcia-Hernandez, J. & Gaggi, C. (1994) -
Foster, J. (2015) -
Foucart, T. (2015) -
Dans son Historia Animalium en 343 av. J.C., Aristote proposait déjà deux critères qui continuent d’être les bases fondamentales de notre compréhension de la diversité des modes de reproduction : l’origine des nutriments des embryons (lécitotrophie vs. matrotrophie) et le mode de parition (oviparité vs. viviparité). Depuis plusieurs décennies la compréhension de la transition évolutive vers la viviparité a attiré un intérêt scientifique considérable. En effet les analyses phylogénétiques récentes reconnaissent une évolution indépendante de la viviparité dans plus de 150 lignées de vertébrés dont au moins 115 concernent uniquement le taxon des reptiles squamates actuels (lézards, serpents et amphisbènes). Les lignées présentant une transition évolutive de l’oviparité à la viviparité chez les squamates se retrouvent généralement associées aux climats froids, mais pas uniquement. Les explications proposées pour ce patron reposent sur le contrôle comportemental de la température de développement chez les femelles gestantes, offrant ainsi des températures plus favorables que celles des sites de ponte situés sous la surface du sol. Durant cette thèse doctorale nous avons étudié une espèce à reproduction bimodale (Zootoca vivipara) chez qui coexistent des populations ovipares et vivipares disjointes. Ce contexte nous a permis de comparer les modes reproducteurs en minimisant les biais phylogénétiques. Nous avons pu mettre en évidence et quantifier différents coûts « potentiels » de la reproduction (énergétique, contrainte volumique, phénotype des nouveau-nés) et certains bénéfices (phénologie et performance des nouveau-nés) associés à la régulation maternelle du développement. Nos résultats nous amènent à discuter des différentes pressions de sélection s’exerçant sur la durée de rétention des embryons, dont les directions seraient opposées et/ou dont l’intensité serait variable au cours du développement embryonnaire. Dans ce schéma, la viviparité ne devrait être favorisée que dans des contextes plus contraignants et où les bénéfices thermiques compensent les coûts de prolongation de la rétention. Ce contexte sélectif aurait abouti chez les squamates à l’existence de deux modalités reproductives avec entre elles une instabilité évolutive des états intermédiaires.
Foucart, T. & Heulin, B. & Lourdais, O. (2017) -
We examined the possible interaction between reproductive effort and embryonic stages at oviposition in oviparous form of the lizard Zootoca vivipara. Our results reveal that the percentage of total embryonic development time (%TEDT) reached at oviposition is negatively correlated to clutch size (adjusted to maternal body size). We found no influence of reproductive burden of female (relative clutch mass, RCM) on %TEDT. The significant effect of fecundity supports the hypothesis that a resource limitation such as oxygen may exist for developing embryos in oviducts. The absence of RCM effect suggests that the available space (abdominal burdening of the mother) does not limit the embryonic stages at oviposition.
Foucart, T. & Heulin, B. & Lourdais, O. (2018) -
Early life stages are particularly vulnerable to environmental perturbations. Embryonic thermal sensitivity might be a driving force in the emergence of prenatal parental care, such as maternal thermoregulation. Viviparity has emerged on repeated occasions among squamate reptiles, and two main evolutionary hypotheses based on maternal thermoregulation have been proposed to explain these transitions, namely the ‘cold climate hypothesis’ and the ‘maternal manipulation hypothesis’. Squamate embryos typically face important daily temperature fluctuations either in the nest or within the maternal body, but most experimental studies on development have relied on constant temperature. Therefore, we may have only limited insight on the effect of maternal thermoregulation on embryo development. We manipulated thermal conditions to compare the influence of a typical maternal temperature cycle (M) or nest thermal conditions (N) both during gravidity and during incubation in the oviparous form of a reproductively bimodal squamate (Zootoca vivipara). Although the two treatments had a similar mean temperature, we found that M treatment accelerated development, notably when applied during gravidity. Only limited effects were found when considering offspring phenotype and performance. Overall, our results suggest that small changes in thermal conditions can have a strong impact on reproductive phenology and might be a proximate target in the emergence of egg retention and, ultimately, of viviparity. Further studies are required to address long-lasting effects of maternal thermoregulation on offspring performance.
Foucart, T. & Lourdais, O. & De Nardo, D.F. & Heulin, B. (2014) -
Examination of the selective forces behind the transition from oviparity to viviparity in vertebrates must include an understanding of the relative energy costs of the two reproductive modes. However, interspecific comparisons of reproductive mode are confounded by numerous other inherent differences among the species. Therefore, we compared oxygen consumption, as a reflection of energy costs, during reproduction in oviparous and viviparous females of the reproductively bimodal lizard Zootoca vivipara (Jaquin 1787). Female oxygen consumption progressively increased over the course of reproduction, peaking just prior to parition when it was 46% (oviparous form) and 82% (viviparous form) higher than it was at the pre-reproductive stage. Total increase in oxygen consumption (TIOC) during the pre-ovulation period was not different between the reproductive modes. Conversely, post-ovulation TIOC was more than three times higher in viviparous females, reflecting a dramatic increase in embryonic metabolism as well as maternal metabolic costs of pregnancy (MCP). MCP accounted for 22% of total metabolism in viviparous females, whereas it was negligible in oviparous females. Our results demonstrate that egg retention through the first third of development, as is typical of most oviparous squamates, entails minimal maternal energy demand, while extending retention imposes much greater metabolic constraints. Selection for transition from oviparity to viviparity must therefore provide benefits that outweigh not only the added burden associated with prolonged embryonic retention, but also the substantial additional energy costs that are incurred.
Foufopoulos, J. (1997) -
Information on the reptile communities of eighteen islands from the Northern Dodecanese (SE Aegean Islands, Greece) is reported here for the first time. The island groups of Arki, Lipsi, Patmos and Agathonissi were visited and distributional as well as ecological information is given for Cyrtopodion kotschyi, Hemidactylus turcicus, Able- pharus kitaibelii, Laudakia stellio. Coluber najadum. Coluber caspius and Vipera xanthina. Faunal relaxation is the main process structuring the species communities on the islands.
Foufopoulos, J. & Lisiecki, C. & Pafilis, P. & Herrel, A. & Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Donihue, C.M. (2018) -
Foufopoulos, J. & Pafilis, P. (2016) -
On islands worldwide, lizards are frequently the most important vertebrates, both in terms of aggregate biomass and total population size. While some research has been done on the effects of predation on lizard population size, little is known on the effects of marine nutrient subsidies or herbivory on lizard population size. In this study we investigate the effects of seabird-delivered marine subsidies, herbivory by introduced goats, and predation by native snakes on the populations of the Aegean Wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii, Lacertidae, Reptilia) living on islands in the Aegean Sea (Greece). Our results indicate that Podarcis population densities are determined by a hierarchical interplay between predation on the one hand, and nutrient availability - mediated through goat browsing and seabird subsidies- on the other. Predation by snakes significantly depresses lizard densities on those islands that are big enough to support resident snake populations. On snake-free islands only, lizard numbers are positively associated with breeding seabird populations, presumably because of seabird subsidies. Also only on snake-free islands, lizard numbers are negatively associated with density of stocked goats. Experimental goat removal and addition experiments lead to the same results. Goats appear to impact lizard populations through the destruction of the vegetation and through the introduction of invasive generalist ticks that switch hosts from goats to parasitize lizards.
Foufopoulos, J. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. & Donihue, C. & Brock, K. (2016) -
The life histories of island species have been the focus of evolutionary studies ever since Darwin visited the Galapagos. While much progress has been made in understanding the drivers of these patterns, comparatively little is known on the corresponding patterns in lacertid lizards. Here we summarize and review the results of more than 30 years of investigations on a model island species, the Aegean Wall lizard Podarcis erhardii. We discuss how the interactions between predation, parasitism and availability of natural resources shape the behavior, reproduction and morphology of insular populations based on data from dozens of islands from the Aegean Sea Region (Greece).
Foufopoulos, J. & Roca, V. & White, K.A. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2017) -
Parasites are ubiquitous in wildlife populations and are regularly present in free-ranging vertebrates. Little research has been done on the impact of insularity on the patterns of parasitism. Islands, known for low genetic diversity and poor parasitic infracommunities, offer a tractable model to better understand the factors that shape parasitism. This study analyses helminth parasite loads from eight populations of the Erhard’s Wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii, Lacertidae) occurring on islands of varying size, age and isolation in the Aegean Sea (Greece). By comparing burdens of infection among the different populations, we aimed to elucidate how island features shape levels of parasitism. Parasite communities on the islands were very species-poor, with only four genera of nematodes (Spauligodon sp., Skrjabinodon sp., Parapharyngodon sp. and Skrjabinelazia sp.) detected among the lizard populations. We found that aggregate worm infection level was positively correlated with island area, whereas total parasite prevalence was negatively correlated with island age, though marginally. This suggests that numbers of parasites are determined by the loss of genetic diversity as consequence of long-term population bottlenecks. Given that the island populations constitute an important model for the effects of habitat fragmentation on biodiversity, our findings raise concerns about the long-term prospects for many specialized parasite populations in the face of widespread anthropogenic habitat fragmentation.
Foufopoulos, J. & Roussos, S. & Kalogiannis, S. & Kalb, S. & Strachinis, I. & Brock, K.M. (2024) -
The Sporades are one of the most biologically important archipelagos in the Aegean Sea (Greece) and have received priority conservation over the last 50 years. However, despite numerous early efforts, its herpetofauna is only partially described, resulting in many distributional gaps that have prevented adequate understanding and management of the resident species communities. We review one century of bibliography from the Northern Sporades and combine this information with a review of museum specimens and insights from numerous extensive field surveys over the last near-decade to provide for the first time a comprehensive picture of the reptiles and amphibians of the archipelago. We report here on 26 new island records and find that the herptile communities of the region are largely derived from the herpetofauna of the nearby Thessaly mainland, with only a few introduced taxa. There is also a small but significant set of endemic taxa in the archipelago. Island species richness declines with decreasing island size and increasing duration of island isolation. Herptile communities on smaller islands are progressively nested subsets of the communities on larger islands. The presence of reptile species depends sensitively on the condition and management of native ecosystems. While non-aquatic species maintain largely healthy populations, most populations are under pressure from the combined effects of rampant tourist development, the destruction and degradation of rare wetland habitats, and the abandonment of traditional agricultural landscapes. We provide recommendations regarding sustainable management of the local reptile and amphibian populations.
Foufopoulos, J. & Zhao, Y. & Brock, K.M. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2023) -
Reproductive investment, including the number of offspring produced, is one of the fundamental characteristics of a species. It is particularly important for island vertebrates, which face a disproportionate number of threats to their survival, because it predicts, among other things, a species’ resilience to environmental disruption. Taxa producing more offspring recover more quickly from environmental perturbations and survive environmental change better. However, ecologists do not understand which primary drivers shape a species’ reproductive investment well. Here, we compare the reproductive efforts of 14 island populations of the Aegean Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardii), which lives across widely diverging environmental conditions. We test three hypotheses, namely that reproductive investment (measured as clutch size, clutch volume) is (1) positively associated with predation risk [‘Predation Risk Hypothesis’]; (2) positively associated with the presence of reliable vegetation cover that provides shelter [‘Gravid Female Protection Hypothesis’]; and (3) limited by (and hence positively correlated with) food availability [‘Food Limitation Hypothesis’]. Although field data are somewhat consistent with all three hypotheses, statistical analyses provide strong support for the Predation Risk Hypothesis. The results not only shed light on which fundamental forces shape reproductive investment in island vertebrates, but can also help shape conservation priorities.
Foufopoulos, J.& Kilpatrick, A.M. & Ives, A.R. (2011) -
Recent climate change has caused the distributions of many species to shift poleward, yet few empirical studies have addressed which species will be vulnerable to longer-term climate changes. To investigate past consequences of climate change, we calculated the population extinction rates of 35 reptile species from 87 Greek land-bridge islands in the Mediterranean that occurred over the past 16,000 years. Population extinction rates were higher for those species that today have more northern distributions. We further found that northern species requiring cool, mesic habitats had less available suitable habitat among islands, implicating loss of suitable habitat in their elevated extinction rates. These extinctions occurred in the context of increasing habitat fragmentation, with islands shrinking and separating as sea levels rose. Thus, the circumstances faced by reptiles on the islands are similar to challenges for numerous species today that must cope with a changing climate while living in an increasingly human-fragmented landscape. Our island-biogeographical approach to investigating historical population extinctions gives insight into the long-term patterns of species responses to climate change.
Fournel, D.-H.-L. (1836) -
Fowler, H.W. (1914) -
Foxon, G.E.H. & Griffith, J. & Price,M. (1953) -
Using radiological methods, Prakash has recently investigated the mode of action of the heart of the lizard Uromastix hardwicki and has concluded that there is very considerable mixture of the blood from the two auricles in the partially divided ventricle.
Fraipont, M. de & Clobert, J. & John-Alder, H. & Meylan, S. (2000) -
1. There is growing evidence that dispersal is highly phenotypically plastic, i.e. that dispersal is condition-dependent. In the common lizard, dispersal has even been shown to be influenced by the maternal environment during pregnancy. Juveniles in good condition or issued from mothers in good condition disperse earlier or in higher numbers. 2. We hypothesized that plasma corticosterone was the proximate mechanism by which condition and dispersal are linked, and tested this by manipulating the level of circulating corticosterone in pregnant females of the common lizard. 3. After parturition, we measured juvenile attractiveness towards the mother and juvenile dispersal of corticosterone (B) and placebo (P) implanted females. 4. Offspring of B females did disperse in lower number than those of P females. B offspring were also more attracted by the mother`s odour than P offspring. 5. In quite a few cases, the behavioural response of juveniles was dependent on the interaction between the hormonal treatment and the mother snout–vent length or condition (body weight corrected for snout–vent length). 6. Corticosterone constitutes therefore one of the proximate mechanisms involved in the prenatal control of juvenile dispersal in this species. Along with other results, it is proposed that prenatal control of dispersal has evolved in order to avoid competition between mothers and their offspring.
Francesco, N. di & Tizio, L. di & Gagliardi, G. & Pallotta, R. (2006) -
Francois-Frank, C.-A. (1907) -
Francois, R. (1999) -
Frank, R. & Edelman, M. (2009) -
Frank, R. & Edelman, M. (2011) -
Herpetological observations in Portugal and southern Spain (Cota Doñana and Sierra del Norte in Andalusia) In the first week of March 2008 a group of sixteen herpetologists visi- ted the Cota Doñana in the south of Portugal and the Sierra del Norte in Andalusia in Spain to look for reptiles and amphibians. The Cota Doñana is a wetland area close to the Mediterranean, with three types of landscapes (dunes, wetlands and shrub lands). The Sierra del Norte is a mountainous area and one of the warmest parts of southern Spain with shrub lands (maquis), low trees and Mediterranean herbs. A lot of species have been found (see table 2), though in relatively low quan- tities.
Frank, R. & Edelman, M. (2015) -
Frank, R. & Edelman, M. (2017) -
Herpetological trip to Israel in 2016 A combination of a long lasting wish to visit the Middle East and motivated by a book of Bar & Haimovitch (2012) we undertook a trip to Israel in the period April 11- 21 2016. The field guide mentions 92 reptile and amphibian species occurring in Israel. Besides that you can find a lot of other animals in Israel, amongst which specific birds, mammals and eighteen species of scorpions (Stockmann & Ythier, 2010). We had five accommodations (two days each) from the most northern part (the Golan Heights to the most southern part of Israel (Eilat). In the table you can see what kind of reptiles and scorpions we discovered in specific regions of Israel. We thank Aviad, Aviv and Ilian for their enthusiastic support and hospitality and Gert-Jan for his support to organize this trip.
Frank, R. & Edelman, M. (2020) -
Frank, T. & Sacdanaku, E. & Duda, M. & Bego, F. (2018) -
Knowledge about amphibians and reptiles of the Vjosa river is missing so far, and the present work is the first report of the herpetofauna of this part of Albania, including the types of habitats in which individual species were observed. Six amphibian and eight reptile species were found at eleven sampling sites along the Vjosa river that were surveyed during several short-term expeditions conducted from 2016 to 2017. All of these 14 species are listed in the Berne Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats as either protected or strictly protected species. Moreover, nine species are listed in the National Red List of Flora and Fauna of Albania, and eight species are listed in Appendix IV of the European Union Habitats Directive. Thus, even this very preliminary survey of the local herpetofauna clearly shows that the area of the Vjosa river is of high conservation value for amphibians and reptiles.
Frank, W. & Frenkel, J.K. (1981) -
Besnoitia cysts in the heart of a lizard (Lacerta dugesii) from the islands of Madeira are the first record of besnoitiosis in a poikilothermic animal in the Old World. The size of the cysts corresponds to those found in lizard genera (Basiliscus and Ameiva) from Panama which belong to B. darlingi. Up to now nothing is known concerning the life cycle of this species from Madeira but it seems possible that cats function as definitive hosts as well as in the other species.
Franke, E. (1995) -
Observations on Acanthodactylus erythrurus in the area of Matalascañas south spain, are reported.
Franke, E. (1999) -
Franke, E. (2000) -
Between 1987 and 1999, 97 locality records of the viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara) have been registered in the region of Stralsund. Particular attention was paid to localities situated within a 140 square kilometers large area which is intensively used agriculturally in a large scale, in order to evaluate to which extent such places still provide suitable habitats for this species. It turned out that here the occurrence is largely depending from extensively used areas. Providing artificial basking places in spring and autumn proved to be an effective, timesaving measure for the recordings, because they allow to manipulate a suitable microclimate within small-scaled areas. Multiple walks through the habitats during various seasons or times of the day proved to be unsuitable for estimating population sizes. Phenological data are listed. Remarkable are three records from the month of February. Observations concerning the lizard`s sensitivity for disturbances and its flight distances are given, and the vulnerability of this species is discussed.
Franke,E. & Franke, T. (2004) -
Franken, M. (2018) -
A photographic evidence of Phoenicolacerta laevis inAnaklia, Georgia.
Franzen, M. (1990) -
Franzen, M. (1991) -
Franzen, M. (1998) -
in Vorkommen von Acanthodactylus schreiberi schreiberi BOULENGER, 1879, der bislang als Endemit Zyperns galt, wird erstmals aus der Türkei gemeldet. Morphologisch stimmen die vier gesammelten Exemplare aus der Umgebung der Siedlungen Botaş und Yukari Burnaz, Provinz Antakya (Hatay), vollkommen mit Vergleichsmaterial aus Zypern überein; ebenso zweifelsfrei ist der Mangel an Übereinstimmung mit A. schreiberi syriacus BOETTGER, 1878 aus dem Libanon und Israel. Das möglicherweise allochthone türkische Vorkommen der Art scheint auf nur einen spärlich bewachsenen, größeren Dünengürtel beschränkt zu sein, da A. schreiberi in strukturell identischen, benachbarten Gebieten der osttürkischen Mittelmeerküste nicht nachgewiesen werden konnte. An den Fundstellen war die Art mit Aktivitätsdichten von bis zu 4-5 Exemplaren auf 100 m² häufig.
Franzen, M. (2000) -
Presently, the lacertid fauna of Turkey consists of 67 species and subspecies. Since 1990 one species has been recorded as new for Turkey (Acanthodactylus schreiberi), and four species (Darevskia dryada, D. `bendimahiensis`, D. `sapphirina`, Lacerta cyanisparsa) and two subspecies (D. valentini spitzenbergerae, D. raddei vanensis) were newly described. Contrastingly, the formerly listed D. r. raddei does not occur in Turkey. Furthermore it is proposed to reject Parvilacerta parva from the fauna of the European part of Turkey until its presence there has been confirmed, and to reject Darevskia mixta from the Turkish herpetofauna until the record has been confirmed or the material has been re-examined. In addition, an overview on taxonomical changes and new distributional data regarding Turkish lacertids since 1990 is given. Finally, a checklist of all taxa currently known from Turkey is presented.
During a short visit at the Turkish Black Sea coast between Trabzon and Hopa in December 1989 lizards of the Darevskia rudis complex, D. parvula and D. derjugini were regulary observed being active. At three sites densities of D. rudis complex were similar to those observed at the same localities during the summer months. Lizards seemed to be fully active in such cases, and once feeding was observed. Compared to the Mediterranean zone of southwestern Turkey, where Lacerta oertzeni was observed being fully active only twice during an eight week survey (December, January), winter activity of lizards seerns to occur more regulary at the Black Sea coast. This may be due to an overall low insolation caused by extensive rainfalls, even during the summer months.
Franzen, M. (2016) -
In Bavaria, the common wall lizard is only known from two native populations, both located in the Inn valley close to the Austrian border. The area houses the northernmost and only German populations of the South Alpine wall lizard clade (Podarcis muralis maculiventris West). I conducted a survey in the town of Kiefersfelden, where the species was discovered as late as 2002. A total of 227 records spread over much of the town were obtained in 2014 and 2016. Most specimens were found in anthropogenic habitats (97% of all sightings) such as old stone walls along roads, in gardens and graveyards, a retaining wall, bridgeheads, piles of stones and wood, boulders along the embankments of the Inn river and the Kieferbach, and the gravel bed of a railway. By contrast, only 3% of all specimens were spotted at natural rocky slopes. All habitats are apparently well connected and the overall population appears to be viable. Most specimens observed were presumed to belong to the native South Alpine clade but some green-backed individuals of a presumably non-native lineage were also observed within a dense population of brown-backed individuals. This indicates that at least locally an introgression of a non-native lineage has already occurred. Due to the high conservation relevance of the local population a management plan is proposed. This should contain a comprehensive genetic mapping and monitoring of the wall lizards of the whole area, followed by a differentiated management of confirmed native and non-native sub-populations. Native sub-populations should be supported by conservation measures, whereas at sites of non-native lineages habitats should be degraded and even the removing of non-native individuals should be considered.
Franzen, M. & Bußmann, M. & Kordges, T. & Thiesmeier, B. (1999) -
Franzen, M. & Bußmann, M. & Kordges, T. & Thiesmeier, B. (2008) -
Franzen, M. & Glaw, F. (2007) -
We provide a fi rst complete list of the present and lost reptile type material of the Zoologische Staatssammlung München (ZSM) and discuss various problems involved. The collection currently houses primary types of 184 taxa (128 holotypes, 44 lectotypes, and 12 taxa based on syntype series), 112 of them currently considered valid. Furthermore, 63 taxa are exclusively represented by secondary types (paratypes, paralectotypes). The ZSM collection strongly suffered from losses during World War II. Approximately 90 primary reptile type specimens or primary type series are considered to be destroyed during that time. The historical focus of the collection is the South American region. This is primarily based on material collected by Spix and Martius during their expedition to Brazil from 1817 to 1820. Primary types of 83 reptile taxa were collected during this expedition – approximately half of them described by J. G. Wagler – but currently specimens of only 53 taxa are still present in Munich. Subsequently, herpetological research in South America was continued during the fi rst half of the 20th Century by L. Müller und W. Hellmich, who deposited primary type material of 95 reptile taxa (49 from South America, among them 26 of the iguanid genus Liolaemus) in the ZSM, 47 of them still represented by primary types. Another geographical focus of the reptile type collection is the Mediterranean area, the Macaronesian region and the Middle East with a total of 46 extant primary types. Herpetological research in this area dates back to descriptions by G. Jan in 1863 and was continued by L. Müller, H. H. Schleich, A. Beutler, and especially J. F. Schmidtler and their respective collaborators.
Franzen, M. & Gruber, H.-J. (2004) -
Franzen, M. & Gruber. H.-J. & Heckes, U. (1993) -
Franzen, M. & Heckes, U. (1992) -
Following the first report of Lacerta praticola from Turkey by ErsEL T (1970), two new locali- ties have now been found near Cucurpmar (SE Dereköy), Vil. K1rklareli . In the Istranca moun- tains, Lacerta praticola is an inhabitant of premontane , su bxerophilous oak forests and exposed edge habitats within mountain beech forests . The collected 4 specimens belang to the subspecies L. praticola pontica.
Franzen, M. & Heckes, U. (1999) -
Unterscheidungsmerkmale für adulte Eremias strauchi und E. suphani sind das Vorhandensein einer doppelten oder einfachen, die Schuppen des dritten Submaxillariapaares trennenden Gulariareihe bei E. suphani (drittes Submaxillariapaares bei E. strauchi in Kontakt), das Vorhandensein von vergrößerten Gularia am dritten Submaxillariapaares bei E. strauchi (keine vergrößerten Gularia bei E. suphani), das Vorhandensein einer ventrolateralen Reihe scharf abgrenzender, großer, runder, weißer Flecken, die zu einem Band zusammenfließen können bei E. suphani (diffus angrenzende, kleine, längliche Flecken oder eine diffuse Längslinie bei E. strauchi) sowie verschiedene Dorsalzeichnungen. In der Türkei leben die Arten schwerpunktmäßig in zwei unterschiedlichen Steppenklimata, die durch jeweils vier humide, semihumide und aride Monate (E. strauchi) beziehungsweise acht humide und vier aride Monate (E. suphani) gekennzeichnet sind. E. strauchi und E. suphani treffen in der Senke von Doğubayazit aufeinander, wo sie parapatrisch leben. Die Habitate beider Arten sind ähnlich; es werden jeweils hat verbackene, lehmige Böden oder lockere, sandige Substrate mit einer spärlichen Vegetationsdecke besiedelt.
Franzen, M. & Schulte, U. (2019) -
Franzoni, M.F. & Fasolo, A. (1982) -
The posterior (caudal) hypothalamus of the lizard, Lacerta sicula R. was investigated by means of Golgi methods. The periventricular grey is formed mainly by isodendritic bipolar and multipolar neurons, while in the lateral hypothalamus a more stellate form of neuronal elements is encountered. CSF-contacting neurons are restricted to the tuberal area and to the paraventricular organ. In the latter area they are highly differentiated and endowed with laterally branched processes. The overall pattern of the lizard hypothalamus (organization of neuropil, lateral nuclei, appearance of cell clusters, morphology of the neuronal elements) represents an intermediate stage in the phylogenetic development of the hypothalamus, being more advanced than the amphibian stage.
Fratello, B. & Maramaldo, R. & Marte, A. (1997) -
The 84 lizards of the Franchini Collection in the Museum of Natural History and Scientific Instrumentation of Moderni has been re-evaluated. A deal of incorrectly determined and unidentified material has now been identified, and the nomenclature of correctly identified specimens has been updated to conform to modern usage. The collection now includes- 34 species, almost all from Somalia or Libia.
Frauenfeld, G. (1853) -
Frauenfeld, G. (1854) -
Frazer, J.F.D. (1949) -
Frazer, J.F.D. (1965) -
Freiria, F.M. (2005) -
Freise, K. & Müller, G. (1962) -
Freitag, W. (1983) -
Freitas, S. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. & Arakelyan, M. & Danielyan, F. & Corti, C. & Carretero, M.A. (2010) -
The genus Darevskia is a lacertid group radiating and diversifying in the Caucasus region. The studies on the phylogeny of this group started early, however, the phylogeographic pattern within this genus is far to be complete. Dareskia raddei has been described for Armenia and adjacent S Georgia, E Turkey and N Iran. D. nairensis from Armenia is sometimes considered conspecific although evidences from morphologyand proteins are conflicting. Here, we assess the phylogeographic relationships based on the analysis of an extensive sampling of specimens morphologically assigned to both species throughout most of the range using the Cytochrome b mitochondrial marker. Results suggest that D. raddei is paraphyletic to D. nairensis for mtDNA, confirming previous evidence of proteins. Nevertheless, the group portschinskii-valentini is confirmed as the sister clade of the raddei-nairensis complex. Within this complex, strong phylogeographic structure is observed. Three main clades are observed: one comprising individuals from Georgia and the most northern and western Armenia, the second comprising individuals from Southern Armenia, and the last with one individual from Iran. The Darevskia unisexualis individuals (i.e. D. raddei and D. valentini parthenogenetic hybrids) analysed in this study fall within the first clade. Because of that we can say that the putative parental D. raddei populations may have been individuals present in between Georgia and the most western part of the current range distribution of D. raddei. The overall pattern suggests an expansion of D. raddei from SE to the rest of the range which is correlated with the recent paleogeographic history of the region.
Freitas, S. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. & Arakelyan, M. & Danielyan, F. & Corti, C. & Ilgaz, C. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Due to its geographic location, the Caucasus region connects species from three diferent continents in a heterogeneous landscape, creating an environment prune to the development of speciation events and multiple endemisms. Among them, the lacertid genus Darevskia is a group of rock lizards radiating and diversifying in the region. Among their highly polymorphic members a number of parthenogenetic forms are present result from the hybridisation between bisexual Darevskia species. However, the origin of these forms lacks an explicit spatiotemporal context. One of the most interesting bisexual species in the group is Darevskia raddei which is responsible for the motherhood of some unisexual forms, namely D. unisexualis, D. uzzeli and D. bendimahiensis and D. sapphirina). Fruthermore, this species is considered conspeciic to D. nairensis and D. (raddei) vanensis, two forms of unclear status which link to the parthenogenetic forms need to be clariied. This, this study aims to reach a global comprehension of the three putative bisexual taxa within of the D. raddei complex (D. raddei, D. nairensis and D. (raddei) vanensis), and their phylogenetic relationships with the parthenogenetic forms they theoretically parented. A phylogenetic analysis was conducted on samples of the D. raddei complex, ranging from Turkey, Armenia, Georgia and Iran. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian methods were applied on a combination of mitochondrial and nuclearmarkers. Namely, three mtDNA (cytochrome b, ND4 and 12s) and two nDNA (MC1R and c-mos) markers were used. Our results conirm that Darevskia raddei (sensu lato) is the proposed maternal species for at least D. unisexualis, D. uzzeli, D. bendimahiensis, D. sapphirina and D. rostombekowi, as already supported by previous studies. However, it does not support a genetic diferentiation between the three forms described within the complex, which are to be considered conspeciic. Moreover, there is reinforced evidence that the three parthenogenetic forms considered arose more than once in the history of the genus, from diferent lineages of the bisexual parents.
Freitas, S. & Rocha, S. & Campos, J. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Corti, C. & Sillero, N. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Arakelyan, M. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. (2016) -
Darevskia rock lizards include both sexual and parthenogenetic species, mostly distributed in the heterogeneous and ecologically diverse Caucasus. The parthenogenetic species originated via directional hybridogenesis, with only some of the sexual species known to serve as parentals. However, it remains unclear when and where these events happened and how many parental lineages were involved. A multilocus phylogeographic analysis was performed on the parthenogens D. unisexualis, D. bendimahiensis and D. uzzeli, and their putative maternal species D. raddei. Results show the parthenogenetic species all have relatively recent origins, approximately 200–70 kyr ago, and at least three hybridization events were involved in their formation. Ecological niche models identify the region where hybridization events leading to the formation of D. unisexualis took place, namely in the northeast of the current distribution. Models also suggest that the sexual D. raddei might have undergone a habitat shift between the Last Interglacial and the Last Glacial Maximum.
Freitas, S. & Vavakou, A. & Arakelyan, M. & Drovetski, S.V. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Kidov, A.A. & Cogalniceanu, D. & Corti, C. & Lymberakis, P. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. (2016) -
Darevskia praticola differs from the other species of the genus in having a large but disjunct distribution, covering the Balkan and the Caucasus regions. Furthermore, most Darevskia species occupy saxicolous habitats, whereas D. praticola inhabits meadows and forest environments. Here we determine the phylogeographic and phylogenetic relationships of Darevskia praticola sensu lato and evaluate the current, morphology-based taxonomy. We sequenced two mtDNA genes (Cyt-b and ND4) and two nuclear loci (MC1R and RELN) for samples collected across the species range. Because our sequences amplified with the Cyt-b primers appear to represent a nuclear pseudogene we excluded this marker from the final analysis. Our results support monophyly of D. praticola and show its division into three clades. The first divergence, dated to the Late Pliocene, is between the Balkans and the Caucasus. The Caucasus lineage is further subdivided in a western Greater Caucasus and a Transcaucasia clade, likely due to subsequent differentiation during the Pleistocene. Our findings do not support the current taxonomic arrangement within D. praticola. The main geographic divergence likely happened due to a vicariance event associated with Plio-Pleistocene climatic and vegetation oscillations.
Freitas, S. & Westram, A.M. & Schwander, T. & Arakelyan, M. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutas, Y. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. & Butlin, R.K. (2022) -
Hybridization is a common evolutionary process with multiple possible outcomes. In vertebrates, interspecific hybridization has repeatedly generated parthenogenetic hybrid species. However, it is unknown whether the generation of parthenogenetic hybrids is a rare outcome of frequent hybridization between sexual species within a genus or the typical outcome of rare hybridization events. Darevskia is a genus of rock lizards with both hybrid parthenogenetic and sexual species. Using capture sequencing, we estimate phylogenetic relationships and gene flow among the sexual species, to determine how introgressive hybridization relates to the origins of parthenogenetic hybrids. We find evidence for widespread hybridization with gene flow, both between recently diverged species and deep branches. Surprisingly, we find no signal of gene flow between parental species of the parthenogenetic hybrids, suggesting that the parental pairs were either reproductively or geographically isolated early in their divergence. The generation of parthenogenetic hybrids in Darevskia is, then, a rare outcome of the total occurrence of hybridization within the genus, but the typical outcome when specific species pairs hybridize. Our results question the conventional view that parthenogenetic lineages are generated by hybridization in a window of divergence. Instead,
Freitas, S.M.R.N. de (2017) -
Considering all costs associated to sex, sexual reproduction could be expected to be rare. However, we find sexual reproduction to be pervasive in nature, and only a reduced number of taxa are completely asexual. In fact, the variety of sex reproductive systems, mating techniques and traits, reveals that the organisms’ reproduction has been an expressive target of selection and adaptation throughout evolution. Sex is selected because it facilitates adaptation in complex and changing environments (Weismann, 1889), and this has been already shown empirically in several models. However, studies and theories developed concerning the paradox of sex will not be able to clarify the current distribution and abundance of asexual lineages in nature. The understanding of rates of origin and extinction of asexual lineages, together with the putative differential evolution rates in organisms with sexual or asexual reproduction, should be considered in the main “origin of sex” question. The model used here, the genus Darevskia, is the first true parthenogenetic vertebrate described. It is a highly speciose genus, currently including 27 species, of which seven are parthenogenetic and of hybrid origin. Only a few of the sexual species contributed for the hybridization events which originated the parthenogens clonal lineages, and these were directional: the maternal species were always Darevskia raddei or D. mixta, and the paternal always D. valentini or D. portshinskii. Using a set of microsatellite and mtDNA markers, we first start to study the role of hybridization in the origin of vertebrate parthenogens, the extent of gene flow with sexual relatives and the relation between hybridization, asexuality and polyploidy, in the context of the main theories of asexual evolution proposed to date. We focus on the D. unisexualis, D. uzzelli and D. armeniaca parthenogens and polyploid backcrosses found in sympatric locations between the parthenogens and its sexual parentals. We find that only specific parental pairs are responsible for the origin of vertebrate parthenogenesis, regardless of their phylogenetic distance. Despite the recurrent hybridization presently reported in Darevskia, asexuality originated multiple times but only in a single temporal event the past. Parthenogenetic females are capable of backcrossing with sexual males, but can only produce polyploid individuals with reduced fertility that do not contribute for gene flow between parthenogens and sexuals. The sexual reproduction machinery can be lost with time in the parthenogenetic hybrids, which are most likely the result of a post-zygotic reproductive barrier to gene flow in the speciation continuum of Darevskia sexual species. In order to reconstruct the phylogenetic inference of this group, a set of capture sequence probes were designed from a transcriptome de novo assembly. Phylogenetic inference reconstruction has been extensively used to ask several evolutionary biology questions. However, despite the exponential use of high-throughput sequencing technologies and its promising applications in phylogenetics, next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques are still far from being as widely used in this field as in other areas of evolutionary genetics. The workflow developed in this thesis has proved to be not only cost-effective, but also to produce a very high number of cross genome phylogenetically informative markers in this non-model species. Finally, taking advantage of the hundreds of cross genome markers developed, a species tree was constructed and within genus relationships evaluated. Introgression tests showed a widespread pattern of gene flow across the genus, not only recent between recently diverged clades, but also both recent and ancient gene flow between early diverging Darevskia clades. Several evidences of hybridization with gene flow between diverging clades have been found in other systems. However, such widespread patterns where introgression has happened between all major clades, and in a very high number of species pairs, are not frequently found. It is also found that gene flow is completely absent between parthenogens sexual parental pairs. In groups with sexual-parthenogenetic reproducing species, pre- or post-zygotic reproductive barriers could be more difficult to attain and hybrid asexuality can, thus, effectively create reproductive barriers between diverging sexual taxa, that were likely faced with recurrent secondary contact. The work presented in this thesis shows that only a few sexual species pairs were responsible for the origin of the parthenogens, that some species acted always as the maternal species and others always as the paternal, that the phylogenetic distances between each pair are included in a wide range interval, and that introgression is found widespread across the genus but absent between the parental pairs. Regardless of the reproduction type, this study also shows the relevance and depth of hybridization during divergence. As has been shown intensively, gene flow is common during speciation and clades divergence. However, it would be interesting to analyse other groups together and test if deep branch gene flow is found only in some exclusive groups (such as sexual-asexual genera) or if it is something more widespread. This work presented here moves Darevskia towards providing a model that can be used to understand the origin of asexuality in vertebrates. Here the basis for future studies about sex and asexuality is provided, so that a focus on the differential evolution rates genomes of both reproduction mode can be analysed.
Freitas, S.N. & Harris, D.J. & Sillero, N. & Arakelyan, M. & Butloin, R.K. & Carretero, M.A. (2019) -
Freitas, S.N. & Harris, D.J. & Sillero, N., & Arakelyan, M. & Butlin, R.K. & Carretero, M.A. (2019) -
Obligate parthenogenesis is found in only 0.1% of the vertebrate species, is thought to be relatively short lived and is typically of hybrid origin. However, neither the evolutionary persistence of asexuality in vertebrates, nor the conditions that allow the generation of new parthenogenetic lineages are currently well understood. It has been proposed that vertebrate parthenogenetic lineages arise from hybridisation between two divergent taxa within a specific range of phylogenetic distances (the ‘Balance Hypothesis’). Moreover, parthenogenetic species often maintain a certain level of hybridisation with their closest sexual relatives, potentially generating new polyploid hybrid lineages. Here we address the role of hybridisation in the origin and evolutionary lifespan of vertebrate parthenogens. We use a set of microsatellite markers to characterise the origins of parthenogens in the lizard genus Darevskia, to study the distinctiveness of sexual and asexual taxa currently in sympatry, and to analyse the evolutionary consequences of interspecific hybridisation between asexual females and sexual males. We find that parthenogens result from multiple past hybridisation events between species from specific lineages over a range of phylogenetic distances. This suggests that the Balance Hypothesis needs to allow for lineage-specific effects, as envisaged in the Phylogenetic Constraint Hypothesis. Our results show recurrent backcrossing between sexual and parthenogenic Darevskia but neither gene flow nor formation of new asexual lineages. We suggest that, along with their demographic advantage, parthenogens gain additional leverage to outcompete sexuals in nature when the retention of sexual reproductive machinery allows backcrossing with their sexual ancestors.
Fresnillo, B. (2014) -
In many animal taxa, conspicuous colouration is a visual signal used for communication purposes among conspecifics or heterospecifics. This kind of colouration may have different functions depending on the body part where it is present and also depending on the age or reproductive status of the individual showing it. Conspicuous colouration is common in lizards, and spiny-footed lizards (Acanthodactylus erythrurus) are particularly good subjects to test different hypotheses explaining the functions of conspicuous colouration and possible changes in these functions during ontogeny, as hatchlings develop conspicuous red colouration on the ventrolateral part of their tails that spreads towards the hind limbs in juveniles. This colouration is lost when males achieve sexual maturity, but is retained, and even enhanced, in adult females while they are sexually receptive, although it is lost when they become gravid. In this PhD thesis we addressed several possible functions of the red colouration in spiny-footed lizards. One hypotheses is the possible function of red colouration as an antipredatory mechanism. We tested whether red colouration in individuals of all age classes was related to their risky behaviours, so we recorded lizard behaviour in the field and calculated several indices of lizard activity, the use of open areas far from refuges and stereotyped movements of limbs and tail. We found that redder (less orange) individuals spent more time further from refuges, a result consistent with the antipredatory function of red colouration. We also tested whether red colouration in the tail of hatchlings was a decoy for avian predators. Using plasticine and plaster lizard models with red or striped dark and light tails, both in the field and with a common lizard predator (Falco tinnunculus) in captivity, we found that red tails increased model conspicuousness in the field, but also that they were an effective decoy for avian predators, diverting attacks from vulnerable body parts towards the tail, thus supporting the antidepredatory function. Another hypothesis about the function of conspicuous colouration in juveniles (the aggression-avoidance hypothesis) states that it reduces aggression from adult conspecifics. Therefore, we tested the influence of juvenile red colouration on the aggression received from adults by conducting videotaped encounters in captivity between adults of both sexes and juveniles that showed either their natural red colouration, or a painted red or white colouration covering their natural red parts. Our results supported the hypothesis, as redder juveniles received less adult aggression. When conspicuous colouration is present in adults, it is commonly associated with sexual selection. Therefore, we tested whether red colouration in adult females, that has already been suggested to have a mating-related function, is used by males in mate selection. We presented adult males with pairs of females differing in their age/size/sexual maturity (adult or juvenile) and/or their colour (red or white) and recorded the time the male spent near or in contact with each female. We found that males spent more time near adult females regardless of their colour, and within adult females, they preferred the red ones, suggesting that female red colouration is a sexual ornament. Red colouration might be providing information about the female reproductive status, and to test this hypothesis we studied the possible link between colouration and female sex steroid hormones that regulate their reproductive cycle, specifically β-estradiol and progesterone. We explored natural variation of colouration and hormone levels along the reproductive cycle, determined the relationships between colouration and hormones and, finally, experimentally manipulated plasma β-estradiol and progesterone concentrations to check the effects on colouration. Our results suggest that red colour in adult females signals the reproductive status, i.e., fertility, as redder females were closer to ovulation. Moreover, high concentrations of either β-estradiol alone or β-estradiol together with progesterone trigger the loss of red colouration immediately following ovulation. In conclusion, red colouration in spiny-footed lizards is a multifunctional signal that is used for different purposes at different age classes. Signals are costly to produce, so using the same signal for different functions or reutilizing the same signal at different age classes should have advantages. In spiny-footed lizards, the retraction of the red colouration to more ventral parts along the ontogenetic process suggests that predation pressures might be modulating the expression of the signal, and points out that individuals of different age classes may be suffering very different selective pressures. This study is also a good example of how signals can change during the evolutionary process, and provides evidences about the conservation of a multifunctional signal during the ontogeny of a species, something poorly studied.
Fresnillo, B. & Belliure, J. & Cuervo, J.J. (2015) -
In many animal taxa, coloration is a visual signal used for communication among conspecifics, for example between age classes. Juvenile coloration has been hypothesized to reduce aggression from adults in some species, in what is called the aggression avoidance hypothesis. Spiny-footed lizards are good subjects for testing this hypothesis, as juveniles develop conspicuous red coloration on their hind limbs and tails that fades in adulthood. To test the influence of juvenile coloration on adult aggressiveness, we conducted videotaped encounters in captivity between adults of both sexes and juveniles with their natural red coloration, or experimentally painted either red or white on their natural red parts. Then we recorded the number of times juveniles were bitten and attacked. In unpainted juveniles, no significant relationship was found between juvenile coloration (brightness, red chroma or hue) and adult aggressiveness. However, juveniles painted red were bitten less than those painted white when number of times bitten was controlled for number of times attacked. This result supports the aggression avoidance hypothesis, as an escalation from low-intensity (attacking) to high-intensity aggression (biting) was less probable towards red juveniles. The presence of red coloration in juveniles caused the reduction in adult aggression, while small natural variations in this red colour did not seem to have any further effect. Juvenile red coloration in this species might indicate age or sexual immaturity to adults.
The decoy or deflection hypothesis, which states that conspicuous colouration is present in non-vital parts of the body to divert attacks from head and trunk, thus increasing survival probability, is a possible explanation for the presence of such colouration in juveniles of non-aposematic species. To test this hypothesis we made plasticine and plaster lizard models of two colour morphs, red or dark-and-light striped tails, based on the colouration of spiny-footed lizard (Acanthodactylus erythrurus) hatchlings, which naturally show a dark-and-light striped dorsal pattern and red tail. Lizard models were placed in the field and also presented to captive common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus), a common avian lizard predator. The number of attacks and the body part attacked (tail or rest-of-body) were recorded, as well as the latency to attack. Our results suggest that models of both colour morphs were recognized as prey and attacked at a similar rate, but in the field, red-tailed models were detected, and thus attacked, sooner than striped-tailed. Despite this increase in detection rate by predators, red-tailed models effectively diverted attacks to the tail from the more vulnerable body parts, thus supporting the decoy hypothesis. Greater fitness benefits of attack diversion to the tail compared to the costs of increased detection rate by predators would explain the evolution and maintenance of red tail colouration in lizards.
Fresnillo, B. & Belliure, J. & Cuervo, J.J. (2016) -
Ontogenetic colour changes in animals generally involve cryptic juveniles developing conspicuous coloration when they achieve sexual maturity. However, there are several species in which juveniles develop conspicuously coloured tails that become cryptic in adults. In lizards, colourful tails may act as an antipredator mechanism, either by diverting predator attacks from vital body parts to the expendable tail (decoy hypothesis) or, when associated with tail movements, by signalling to the potential predator that it has been spotted and an attack will probably not succeed (pursuit deterrent hypothesis). In both cases, the antipredator function would allow lizards with colourful tails to show more risk-taking behaviours. The aim of this study was to test whether conspicuous coloration was related to risk behaviours in spiny-footed lizards, Acanthodactylus erythrurus, a species with red-tailed juveniles. Behaviour was recorded in free-ranging lizards and several risk-related behavioural indices were calculated. As predicted, risk behaviour and tail coloration were found to be related, as redder (less orange) lizards stayed further from refuge, maybe because redder coloration was associated with a perception of lower predation risk. Coloration was not related to any other behavioural index, including tail displays, but the level of activity was negatively related to lizard size, suggesting a change towards less active behaviour associated with growth, probably because energy and thermoregulatory requirements depend on body size. In conclusion, the link between red coloration and risk-taking behaviour in spiny-footed lizards supports the antipredator function of this coloration that enables more colourful lizards to take more risks when necessary. Moreover, the nonsignificant association between coloration and tail displays is not consistent with the pursuit deterrent hypothesis, thus making the decoy hypothesis more probable.
Fresnillo, B. & Belliure, J. & Gil, D. & Cuervo, J.J. (2019) -
Breeding coloration of females often signals aspects of their reproductive status, suggesting a link between color and sex steroid hormones. In this study, we examined the relationships between 2 sex steroid hormones (progesterone and β-estradiol) and reproductive coloration in female spiny-footed lizards Acanthodactylus erythrurus. We first explored natural variation in female plasma hormone levels and coloration during their reproductive cycle. β-estradiol was negatively related to brightness and positively related to red saturation, whereas progesterone was not significantly related to coloration. After identifying key relationships, plasma hormone concentrations were manipulated by creating 3 experimental female groups (β-estradiol-treated, progesterone-treated, and control), and the effects on coloration were monitored. β-estradiol-treated females, in which there was a rise in both β-estradiol and progesterone levels, lost their red coloration earlier than females in the other 2 experimental groups, whereas progesterone treatment had no significant effect on female coloration. Our results suggest that high levels of either β-estradiol alone or β-estradiol together with progesterone trigger the loss of red coloration in female spiny-footed lizards, and that progesterone alone does not affect coloration. We hypothesize that changes in female breeding color might be regulated by β-estradiol in species in which conspicuous coloration is displayed before ovulation, and by progesterone in species in which this color is displayed during gravidity.
Fretey, J, (1986) -
Fretey, J. (1986) -
Fretey, J. (2003) -
Freundt, G. & Freundt, R. (2010) -
Freundt, R. (2012) -
Eine individuenreiche Population der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) im Niederrheinischen Tiefland (Kreis Wesel, NRW) wurde 2011 in ihrer Weiterentwicklung untersucht. Durch fotografische Wiedererkennung konnten insgesamt 63 (33 %) der im Vorjahr registrierten Tiere erneut gefunden werden. Bei ca. 100 Geländebegehungen wurden umfangreiche Daten zu Wiederfunden, Mehrfachsichtungen und Neuzugängen gesammelt. Es gelangen Nachweise von mindestens fünf Zweit- und einem Drittgelege. Die dreimalige Trächtigkeit eines Weibchens innerhalb einer Fortpflanzungsperiode wird ausführlich dokumentiert.
Freundt, R. (2017) -
Die primär für Wildpflanzen, Insekten und speziell Reptilien optimal gestaltete und gepflegte Naturschutzfläche von 11.000 Quadratmetern Größe liegt im Niederrheinischen Tiefland (Kreis Wesel, NRW). Sie war von 1987-2012 Privateigentum der Eheleute Freundt, seit 2013 ist sie im Besitz der NABU-Stiftung Naturerbe NRW, Unterstiftung „Biotop Freundt“. Hier wurde von 2010-2015 die individuenreiche Zauneidechsen-Population (Lacerta agilis) mit Hilfe der fotografischen Wiedererkennungsmethode untersucht. In dieser sechsjährigen privaten Freiland- Forschung wurden umfangreiche Daten über den Bestand, der zwischen 191 und 321 Individuen schwankte, gesammelt und dokumentiert. Weiterhin wurden untersucht: Phänologie, Dauer der Winterruhe, Verhalten, Populationsdynamik und das erreichte Maximalalter der Zauneidechsen im Freiland. Mit umfangreichen Daten wird belegt, daß im Durchschnitt nur 17 % der Tiere eines Jahrgangs das 3. Kalenderjahr erreichten. Die ältesten Tiere während der gesamten Untersuchungszeit waren ein Männchen im 7., ein weiteres Männchen und acht Weibchen im 6. Kalenderjahr. Auswirkungen des Wetters werden nachgewiesen, möglicher Einfluß des Klimawandels auf die Zauneidechsen wird diskutiert. Vier Tiere werden mit ihrer Biografie ausführlich vorgestellt, viele Beobachtungen und Erkenntnisse mit zahlreichen Farbfotos belegt.
Freundt, R. & Müller, W.R. & Freundt, G. (2011) -
Freyhof, J. (1994) -
In March 1990 Poromera fordii was seen on the ground of a rainforest near Dehane Cameroun.
Freytag, G.E. (1959) -
Friederich, U. (1978) -
Friedli, S. & Ackermann, G. (2022) -
Friedrich, C. & Freitag, B. (1998) -
Von April bis August 1996 konnten am Grazer Petersbach (Steiermark, Österreich) und in dessen näherer Umgebung zwölf Amphibien- und vier Reptilientaxa nachgewiesen werden. Vor allem die Anzahl der Amphibientaxa in diesem nicht besonders ausgedehnten Beobachtungsgebiet, das noch dazu in einer Großstadt liegt, ist beachtlich, wenn man bedenkt, daß in ganz Österreich nur 21 Taxa (18 Arten +2 Unterarten einer Art + 1 Hybridform) dieser Wirbeltiergruppe vorkommen. Alle Amphibienund Reptilienarten sind in den Roten Listen gefährdeter Tiere Österreichs aus dem Jahre 1994 enthalten und bedürfen dringend wirksamer Schutz- und Förderungsmaßnahmen. Noch bestehen, wie in diesem Bericht aufgezeigt wird, Möglichkeiten, diese Arten im Untersuchungsgebiet sinnvoll zu unterstützen.
Friedrich, H. (1938) -
Friestad, A.C. & Orton, M.M. & Eifler, D. (2023) -
Frigge, P.A.J. & Kessel, C.M. van (1988) -
Frisch, O. (1961) -
Frisch, O. von (1969) -
Frisch, O. von (1980) -
Frissen-Moors, C.M.M. (2009) -
Frissen, D. & Moors, C. & Tilmans, R.A.M. (2009) -
Distribution: An indigenous population of the common wall lizard is present only in the southern city of Maastricht, where it reaches its northern distribution limit. The common wall lizard is distributed along old city walls, railway embankments, industrial areas and the banks of the river Meuse. Status: The common wall lizard is listed on the Red List as critically endangered. It is strictly protected under Dutch legislation, the Bern Convention (Annex ii) and the Habitats Directive (Annex iv). The common wall lizard is present in less than 1% of the Dutch 5×5 km grid cells. Within the city of Maastricht 77% of the known locations have disappeared during the last century. The decrease is caused by the demolition of most old city walls and fortifications, a lack of management and large scale renovations of the remaining walls. Around 1980 the total Netherlands populations consisted of less than 100 animals. Around 1990 the indigenous population had grown to some 140 animals. In 2004 the population size was estimated to be around 900 due to good habitat management, favourable weather conditions and a higher research intensity. Numbers have declined slightly since then, but new locations have been colonised. The situation is much more favourable than in the 1970s and 1980s. The species is helped by using special techniques when restoring old walls and by a well thought-out management of the vegetation by extensive sheep grazing and mowing. The special way of consolidating old walls together with the vegetation management proved to be very successful. Remarks: Common wall lizards in Maastricht differ from those in nearby Belgian and German populations by their belly colour. Practically all Maastricht males have red bellies. During the long period that this population has been studied, very few males with white or yellow bellies have been found; colours that are common in neighbouring foreign populations. This might be the consequence of long term isolation. Maastricht animals are slightly smaller than animals in neighbouring countries. There are several introduced populations of common wall lizards in the Netherlands. The introduced animals originate from different central and southern European countries. Even some 220 km north of Maastricht a large breeding group of introduced animals is present.
Fritsch, K. von (1870) -
Fritsch, S. & Reck, H. & Zinner, F. & Richter, K. (2018) -
Fritz, B. & Bischoff, W. & Fritz, J.-P. (1991) -
Fritz, K. (2002) -
Fritz, K. & Cerff, D. (1992) -
Fritz, K. & Sowig, P. (1988) -
Fritz, K. & Sowig, P. (2007) -
Fritz, P. (2025) -
In spring 2024, we travelled to Uzbekistan to visit architectural sights along the Silk Road as well as reptiles and amphibians, including lizards of the genus Eremias. The Eremias genus currently comprises 44 species and is widespread in numerous countries in Eastern Europe and Asia. They are small to medium-sized, diurnal lizards that live in arid regions. They are characterised by fringe-like appendages on their toes, which enable them to move quickly in the sand. The species observed are: Eremias velox (Pallas, 1771), Eremias lineolata (Nikolski, 1897) and Eremias nigrocellata Nikolski, 1896.
Fritz, U. (1992) -
The presence of a recently introduced population of Podarcis p. pityusensis (BOSCA, 1883) at Cala Ratjada, NE Mallorca, is reported.
Fritz, U. (1993) -
Fritz, U. (2002) -
Froer, E. (1979) -
Froer, E. (1980) -
Froesch-Franzon, P. (1982) -
Froesch-Franzon, P. (1983) -
Froesch, P (1980) -
Froesch, P. (1983) -
Fröhling, H. (1981) -
Frommer, J. (1984) -
Frommhold, E. (1960) -
Frommhold, E. (1962) -
Frommhold, E. (1963) -
Frommhold, E. (1965) -
Frömming, E. (1932) -
Frömming, E. (1954) -
Frör, E. (1982) -
Frör, E. (1984) -
Frotzler, N. & Bader, T. (2007) -
Frotzler, N. & Bader, T. & Rathbauer, F. & Riegler, C. (2009) -
Frühling, D. & Niedrist, A. & Kaufmann, P. (2022) -
Die Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) wurde im Bundesland Salzburg erstmals im Jahr 2008 nachgewiesen und hat sich seitdem punktuell entlang des Bahnliniennetzes ausgebreitet. Im Zuge dieser Arbeit wurde untersucht, wie heimische Zauneidechsen (Lacerta agilis) in einem anthropogenen Habitat auf die Besiedlung durch allochthone Mauereidechsen reagieren. Untersuchungsgebiet ist ein knapp 300 m langer, mit Mauern stabilisierter Bahndammabschnitt in der Stadt Salzburg, zu dem seit 2013 quantitative Daten zur Herpetofauna vorliegen und wo 2015 auch die Mauereidechse eingewandert ist. Von März bis September 2027 wurden im Untersuchungsgebiet Daten über Abundanz, Alter und genutzte Mikrohabitate der beiden Eidechsenarten gesammelt. Zudem wurden alle zum Gebiet vorliegenden Daten aus der Salzburger Biodiversitätsdatenbank von 2072 bis 2020 abgefragt und ausgewertet. Die Daten zeigen eine klare Differenz in den genutzten Mikrohabitaten der beiden Arten: Während 80,6% der Mauereidechsen direkt auf Steinmauern beobachtet wurden, wurden 83,8% der Zauneidechsen in bewachsenen Hangbereichen gesichtet. Die Gesamtzahl der im Untersuchungsgebiet beobachteten Mauereidechsen ist seit dem ersten Nachweis 2015 stetig gestiegen und 2021 konnten bis zu 277 lndividuen gleichzeitig beobachtet werden. Die Abundanz der Zauneidechse im Gebiet ist mit maximal neun Individuen deutlich niedriger. Die Zauneidechsen-Population zeigt jedoch Reproduktionserfolg und scheint auf niedrigem Niveau stabil.
Frynta, D. & Moravec, J. & Čiháková, J. & Sádlo, J. & Hodková, Z. & Kaftan, M. & Kodym, P. & Král, D. & Pitule, V. & Šejna, V. (1997) -
Fu, J. (1998) -
A phylogeny of the family Lacertidae was derived from mtDNA gene sequence data. Seventeen species, representing 16 currently recognized genera and subgenera, were included in the analysis. A total of 954 bp was obtained and aligned from 12S and 16S partial gene sequences. A preferred tree was selected based on weighted parsimony and functional ingroup and outgroup analyses. Decay analysis, bootstrapping, and permutation tail probability were used to evaluate support for the recovered nodes. The genus Gallotia was resolved as the basal taxon and the sister group of all remaining lacertids.Takydromus branched off next. All African lacertids grouped together and formed a monophyletic clade with the Eurasian genera Eremiasand Ophisops. The remaining Eurasian lacertids sequentially branched off near the base of the tree in a “comb-like” fashion. The basal position of Gallotia and the monophyly of African lacertids are consistent with previous hypotheses. The European-origin hypothesis of lacertids is favored, and the distribution of lacertids in Africa is likely a Miocene dispersal event. Most of the extant European lacertids probably arose after the Eocene. The classification of the family needs to be revised.
Fu, J. (2000) -
A phylogeny of the family Lacertidae was derived from DNA sequences of six mitochondrial genes. Only a few nodes were confidently resolved using maximum parsimony, although the data yielded a total of 1664 phylogenetically informative characters. The lacertids grouped into two subfamilies, the Gallotiinae which includes genera Gallotia and Psammodromus, and the Lacertinae which includes the remaining lacertids. The Lacertinae split into two additional groups. The African group included all African and Arabian lacertids and two Eurasian genera, Eremias and Ophisops; the remaining Eurasian lacertids were included in the Eurasian group. Most of the relationships within the African and Eurasian groups cannot be confidently resolved. A permutation tail probability test suggested that there is very little character covariance in the data to support these unresolved relationships. A recent explosive speciation hypothesis was invoked to explain the lack of structure of the data. The common ancestor of the Eurasian group, as well as the ancestor of the African group, experienced simultaneous, or almost simultaneous, multiple speciation events, which left none or very few characters fixed on the internodes. The phylogenetic reconstruction at the family level will be very difficult, if not impossible. Future phylogenetic research should focus on lower levels.
Fu, J. & Darevsky, I.S. & MacCulloch, R.D. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Roitberg, E.S. & Sokolova, T.M. & Murphy, R.W. (1995) -
The genetic diversity of 34 loci was surveyed from among five populations of the supposed conspecific taxa Lacerta c. caucasica, L. c. alpina, and L. c. daghestanica. Twelve loci exhibited variation. Fixed or nearly fixed allelic differences between L. c. caucasica and L. c. daghestanica were found at two loci, mannose-6-phosphate isomerase-A and creatine kinase-C. These two taxa differed from L. c. alpina at eight loci. Nei`s (1978) genetic distance values among populations of L. c. daghestanica ranged from 0.000 - 0.029, between L. c. caucasica and L. c. daghestanica from 0.076 - 0.087 and between L. c. alpina and the other taxa from 0.472 - 0.501. Fixed allelic differences and consistent morphological character states support the recognition of these three taxa as separate species. Therefore, we recommend use of the names L. alpina, L. caucasica, and L. daghestanica for these taxa.
Fu, J. & MacCulloch, R.D. & Murphy, R.W. & Darevsky, I.S. (2000) -
Clonal variation in Lacerta armeniaca was investigated using allozyme electrophoresis and morphology. Among the 35 allozyme loci examined, three were variable, which divided L. armeniaca into four clones. One rare clone of L. armeniaca made up the majority of two populations. This contrasts to rare clones in other parthenogenetic Caucasian rock lizards which typically consist of only one or two individuals. Another rare clone, which showed a striking colouration difference, had different allelic composition at two loci. Although mutation is a possible explanation of the origin of the clonal variation, the alternative, multiple origin, is equally likely.
Fu, J. & MacCulloch, R.D. & Murphy, R.W. & Darevsky, I.S. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Danielyan, F. (1998) -
Protein electrophoresis of Lacerta unisexualis from three populations found that 21 of 36 allozyme loci were homozygous, while 14 expressed fixed heterozygotes and one locus was variable. Three clones were detected at the locus Cat-A. Two individuals represent two rare clones while all others form a common clone. Our favored explanation is the mutation of a preexisting common clone rather than multiple origins.
Fu, J. & MacCulloch, R.D. & Murphy, R.W. & Darevsky, I.S. & Tuniyev, B.S. (2000) -
Allozyme electrophoresis of four sibling parthenogenetic Caucasian rock lizards Darevskia unisexualis, D.uzzelli, D.sapphirina, and D.bendimahiensis found seven clones and five variable loci. The data supported the hypothesis that D.raddei and D.valentini are the parental species of all four parthenogens. Variation patterns in Darevskia were summarized. Species that originated from a single F1 typically consisted of one widespread clone with a few rare clones. Species with multiple origins displayed variation only slightly higher than species with a single origin. This is contrary to other genera of parthenogenetic lizards, in which cases massive clonal variations were observed.
Fu, J. & Murphy, R.W. & Darevsky, I.S. (1997) -
A maximum parsimony phylogeny of 14 Caucasian species of rock lizards, genus Ijicerta, subgenus Archaeolacerta, was constructed from mitochondrial cytochrome b and ATPase 6 partial gene sequences. Congruence analyses were carried out between the two genes. A synthesis of the data sets reveals three well supported monophyletic groups: (1) the caucasica group including (Lacerta derjugini ((Lalpina, L. clarkorum) (L. caucasica, L. daghestanica))); (2) the rudis group including (L. parvula (L. portschinskii (L. vakntini, L. rudis))); and (3) the saxicola group including (L. mixta (L. nairensis (L. saxicola, L. raddeijj). Despite the diagnosis of three groups, the placement of L. praticola as a basal taxon is uncertain, as are the relationships among the three groups. The mitochondrial DNA sequence data suggested prior hybridization between L. mixta and L. alpina and possibly between L. saxicola and L. nairensis. Lacerta raddei was resolved as a paraphyletic species on the mtDNA tree; this may result from either hybridization or random gene sorting.
FU, J. & Murphy, R.W. & Darevsky, I.S. (1999) -
Little mtDNA variation was observed among populations of the bisexual Caucasian rock lizard Lacerta mixta and unisexual L. dahli and L. armeniaca. Three haplotypes were detected in L. mixta and the maximum pairwise difference among the samples was 0.67%. No intra- and interspecific variation was found among populations of either L. armeniaca or L. dahli. Moreover, both unisexual species were identical to one of the three haplotypes of L. mixta. The limited variation in L. mixta is likely the result of bottleneck effect, although the small sample size may also be responsible. The lack of variation in the unisexuals was attributed to the restricted variation among the maternal parents, limited involvement of females in the hybridization, and recent origin.
Fuchs, J. & Grohmann, C. & Rödel, M.-O. & Penner, J. (2006) -
Fuentes, I. & Márquez-Ferrando, R. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Sanpera, C. & Santos, X. (2020) -
Trace elements can be toxic when they cannot be easily removed after entering an ecosystem, so a long-term assessment is fundamental to guide ecosystem restoration after catastrophic pollution. In 1998, a pyrite mining accident in Aznalcóllar (south-western Spain) spilled toxic waste over a large area of the Guadiamar river basin, where, after restoration tasks, the Guadiamar Green Corridor was established. Eight years after the mine accident (2005–2006), the ground-dwelling insectivorous lizard Psammodromus algirus registered high trace-element levels within the study area compared to specimens from a nearby unpolluted control site. In 2017, 20 years after the accident, we repeated the sampling for this lizard species and also quantified trace elements in vegetation as well as in arthropod samples in order to identify remnant trace-element accumulation with the aim of assessing the transfer of these elements through the trophic web. We found remnant trace-element contamination in organisms of the polluted site compared to those from the unpolluted site. All trace-element concentrations were higher in arthropods than in plants, suggesting these compounds bioaccumulate through the trophic web. Lizards from the polluted areas had higher As, Cd, and Hg concentrations than did individuals from the unpolluted area. Lizard abundance between sampling periods (2005–06 and 2017) did not vary in unpolluted transects but strongly declined at polluted ones. By contrast, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index indicated that in the study period, the vegetation was similar at the two sampling sites. These results suggest that, 20 years after the accident, the trace-element pollution could be the cause of a severe demographic decline of the lizard in the polluted area.
Fugas, M.C. & Caeiro, F. (2012) -
Amoeba associated microorganisms (ARMs) are bacteria or viruses that share a symbiotic relationship with amoebas. Many ARMs are associated with human diseases and it has been reported the acquisition of resistance inside their host. These facts highlight the importance of finding and characterizing ARMs in a public health’s perspective. In the present work, amoebas from environmental samples have been isolated and identified by optical microscopy and molecular methods. Amoeba associated viruses, especially from the NCLDV group, were also subjected to a PCR screening. From the 12 collected samples, it was possible to isolate 17 amoebas, of which 11 were identified by molecular methods. No viruses were detected but in 2 of these amoebas, a bacterium was identified which shares an 89% sequence identity with the Marivirga tractuosa species. If amoebas allow the replication of a Mimivirus, which belongs to the NCLDV group, would they be able to replicate iridoviruses that belong to the same group? An Acanthamoeba castellanii cell line was experimentally inoculated with three Ranavirus: FV3 (Frog Virus 3), Ma3B and BoA (respectively, a Triturus marmoratus and a Triturus boscai isolate). The PCR test suggested an association between A. castellanii cells with the Ma3B and BoA viruses. VLPs (Virus-like particles) were visualized by electron microscopy in the Ma3B inoculated amoebas. Ranavirus from several Triturus species are currently being characterized and the sequences of their Major Capsid Protein and DNA polymerase genes are identical. Could the sequencing of a less conserved gene like the Flap endonuclease, allow the distinction? The sequencing and analysis of the Flap gene was able to group viruses FV3 and LMO (Lacerta monticula virus) as they present an equal gene sequence. The three Triturus marmoratus isolates presented an equal Flap gene amongst them and were also grouped. Between the two groups, this gene sequence has a difference of 8 nucleotides, confirming the separation of the FV3 and LMO viruses from the other iridoviruses tested.
Fuhn, I.E. (1932) -
Fuhn, I.E. (1956) -
Fuhn, I.E. (1970) -
Fuhn, I.E. & Hirsu, M. (1962) -
Fuhn, I.E. & Vancea, S. (1961) -
Fuhn, I.E. & Vancea, S. (1964) -
Fuhn, J.E. (1940) -
Fuhn, J.E. (1955) -
Fuhn, J.E. & Mertens, R. (1959) -
1. Die gestreifte Smaragdeidechse der Dobrudscha, die im Schrifttum unter den verschiedensten Namen erwähnt wurde, gehört zu Lacerta trilineata und stellt eine neue Unterart (dobrogica) dar, die am nächsten mit der kaukasisch-kleinasiatischen media verwandt ist. 2. Vom Wohnareal der media ist dobrogica keinesfalls durch eine über 1000 km lange Zone geschieden, die von der typischen trilineata bewohnt ist; wenn eine media-freie Zone überhaupt besteht, so ist sie wesentlich kleiner. Außer in der Dobrudscha lebt dobrogica mit Sicherheit noch in Nordost-Bulgarien. Das Wohngebiet westlich des Schwarzen Meeres dürfte dobrogica bzw. ihre Ahnen längs der Nordküste Kleinasiens vom Kaukasus aus erreicht haben. 3. In der Dobrudscha lebt Lacerta trilineata dobrogica an vielen Stellen neben Lacerta viridis, mit der sie sich niemals vermischt. Da diese beiden Smaragdeidechsen auch in vielen anderen Gebieten Südosteuropas und des nordwestlichen Kleinasiens unvermischt vorkommen, werden sie als Arten aufgefaßt. Eine dritte Art der Smaragdeidechsen stellt Lacerta strigata dar, mit der dobrogica selbst von namhaften Herpetologen verwechselt worden ist. 4. Die gestreifte Smaragdeidechse der Dobrudscha zieht bewachsene, aber sonnige und warme Stellen vor; sie meidet jedoch den Wald. Ausgesprochen xerophil ist sie nicht, da sie immer in der Nähe des Wassers auftritt. 5. Ein Gelege aus 12 Eiern vom 22. Juli ergab bei etwa 26°C nach 77-83 Tagen Jungtiere. Da diese noch im Mai die Größe der im Herbst Geschlüpften haben, wird angenommen, daß sie sich in den Winterschlaf zurückziehen, ohne viel Nahrung aufgenommen zu haben.
Fuhrmann, M. (2003) -
Fuhrmann, M. (2005) -
Fuhrmann, M.& Thiele, R. & Tauchert, J. (2007) -
Fujimoto, K. (2000) -
The feeding and development of Amblyomma testudinarium Koch larvae on the lizard, Takydromus tachydromoides (Schlegel) were observed at 24℃ under a 16L-8D photoperiod and compared with those of the larvae on mice. The mean feeding periods of the larvae were 13.7 and 5.4 days on the lizards and the mice, respectively. The mean feeding period on the lizards was significantly longer than that on the mice. However, the molting success of the engorged larvae was 97% or more on both hosts. The mean developmental periods of the engorged larvae were 22.4 and 22.6 days on the lizards and the mice, respectively. The difference in the mean developmental period between the two hosts was not significant, suggesting that the difference in the host suitability between the two hosts is slight. Thus, the reasons why the immature ticks of A. testudinarium infest more frequently on mammals than on reptiles can not be explained by the difference in the host suitability between the cold-blooded and warm-blooded animals.
藤本 和義 (2000) -
カナヘビに寄生したタカサゴキララマダニ幼虫の吸血と発育を24℃, 16L-8Dの日長条件で観察し, マウスに寄生した幼虫のそれらと比較した。カナヘビ上での幼虫の吸血期間は平均13.7日, マウス上でのそれは5.4日で, カナヘビ上での吸血期間はマウス上より明らかに長かった。しかし, 飽血幼虫の脱皮率は両宿主とも97%以上であった。飽血幼虫の発育期間はカナヘビ上では平均22.4日, マウス上では22.6日で, 両宿主の間に大きな違いは見られなかった。以上の結果から, 幼虫に対する両宿主の宿主適合性の違いはわずかであると考えられた。従って, タカサゴキララマダニ幼, 若虫が爬虫類より哺乳類により多く寄生している理由を温血動物と冷血動物の宿主適合性の違いによって説明できない。
Fujita, H. & Takada, N. (1978) -
藤田 博己, 高田 伸弘 (1978) -
東北地方北部で捕獲した, わが国にもっとも普通の小型爬虫類カナヘビ55頭から, Ixodes nipponensisの幼ダニ103個体と若ダニ33個体を見いだした。本土産陸棲小型爬虫類からのマダニ採集の報告はこれが初めてと思われ, I. nipponensisただ1種のみの寄生であったことはきわめて興味深い。また, カナヘビ体上で飽血した若ダニ2個体は成ダニまで脱皮したので, これらの結果について予報的に報告した。
Fujita, H. & Takada, N. (1997) -
Fukada, H. & Ishihara, S. (1967) -
Fukudome, M. & Yamawaki, Y. (2016) -
The Japanese lacertid lizard Takydromus tachydromoides and the praying mantis Tenodera aridifolia are sympatric generalist predators feeding on similar prey. To confirm reciprocal predation between them, we observed the behavioural interactions between the lizards and the mantises of different sizes in a laboratory condition. The lizards caught small mantises (from first to fifth instars), but sometimes escaped from large mantises (from sixth instar to adult). Large mantises occasionally showed catch responses to the lizards. The lizards sometimes caught the mantis without a tongue-flick response (sampling of chemical cues), and they sometimes did not catch the small mantises showing immobile or cryptic responses that prevent visual detection. These results suggested the primary role of vision on recognition of the mantis as a prey. The lizards spent a longer time to approach larger mantises. The time from orienting to catch was longer when the lizards showed tongue-flick responses. The lizard also spent a longer time before deciding to escape from the mantis than to catch it. Biological significance of these differences in timing was discussed.
Fukudome, M. & Yamawaki, Y. (2017) -
It is important to investigate visual orienting in reptiles to better understand the basic organization of the oculomotor system in vertebrates. However, quantitative analyses of visual orienting behavior in reptiles have rarely been conducted, except in chameleons. In the present study, we videorecorded the head and body movements of the lizard Takydromus tachydromoides during visual tracking of moving prey and analyzed them frame-by-frame. Before approaching prey, visual tracking mainly consisted of brief intermittent turns of the head (saccade). After the head saccades, the angular position of the prey relative to the lizard head was kept at 10–70° (laterally) in most cases, rather than at 0° (in front). In addition, the ratio of the amplitude of the head saccades to prey position was 0.2–0.3, which is much smaller than 1, suggesting that the head did not orient exactly toward the prey after most saccades. These results were observed under both white (homogeneous) and grating (structured) backgrounds. Possible functions of head saccades in the lizard are discussed.
Fukuyama, I. (2019) -
Fulgione, D. & Guglielmi, S. & Odierna, G. & Rippa, D. & Caliendo, M.F. & Rastogi, R.K. (2008) -
Only some island populations of Podarcis sicula are hyperchromatic. The study of this phenome- non and its relationship with the lizards of the mainland and other islands, exhibiting a “normal” coloration, provides useful hints in our understanding of evolutionary mechanisms that have cre- ated the observed morphological variation. We performed a comparative morphological and genetic analysis of a hyperchromatic lizard population from Licosa Island, and compared the data with that obtained from normal-colored lizard populations both from Ustica and Cirella islands in the Tyrrhenian sea and from nearby mainland Italy. Morphological and microsatellite gene differentiation in the hyperchromatic Licosa population appears to have been much more rapid than the molecular evolution of the mtDNA. We discuss herein that the comparison of hyperchromatism and other types of morphological variation with molecular data in island populations of lizards may provide useful hints as to evolutionary mechanisms.
Fulgione, D. & Lega, C. & Trapanese, M. & Buglione, M. (2015) -
As largely demonstrated for a wide range of vertebrates, the melanin-based coloration can be the effect of both mutations in the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) gene and of differential expression of the same gene. However, in lizards, this mechanism is poorly known and some populations exhibit a high variation of melanism. Some populations of Podarcis siculus show a gradual melanization, suggesting a case of a quantitative phenomenon rather than a qualitative one. Here, we objectively quantify the continuous colour variation by spectrophotometric analysis demonstrating that the changes in the skin reflectance are not associated to mutations in the coding region of the MC1R gene but seem to be related to a concomitant variation of expression for this gene.
Fulgione, D. & Maselli, V. & Rivieccio, E. & Aceto, S. & Salvemini, M. & Buglione, M. (2023) -
The Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) living on islets exhibits a melanic skin coloration and a suite of adaptive traits lacking in nearby mainland populations. On islets, the unpredictable environmental conditions and highly fluctuating population densities are believed to have produced reversed island syndrome (RIS). Several physiological, behavioral, and life-history changes based on the RIS could result from positive selection on increased activity of melanocortins. We hypothesize that phenotypes on islets are the product of a plastic variation depending on the regulation of specific genes. Focusing on control systems that determine the insular-adapted phenotype, we demonstrated that reproductive markers, involved in the hypothalamus–hypophysis–gonadal axis, and metabolism markers, flags for hypophysis-melanocortin receptors, are all up-regulated in island lizards under the RIS. This behavior, combined with the observed limited variation in the mitochondrial genome, agrees with the hypothesis that plasticity enables populations to persist in novel environmental conditions and that over time, natural selection will “fine-tune” the population to the environment by modifying the phenotype under selection. We believe that analysis of the transcriptome and the single gene expression, such that all the variations observed in the island populations, can be useful to shed light on evolutionary plasticity as a process affecting animals’ populations in general.
Fulgione, D. & Milone, M. & Rippa, D. & Capriglione, T. & Guarino, F.M. & Odierna, G. (2004) -
The results are presented of a microsatellite study performed on melanic and normal specimens of Podarcis sicula found sympatric in a very small area in the Cilento mountain region (Roscigno, southern Italy). The melanic sub-population showed low variability and departure from HW equilibrium in the considered loci (three out of five). We also provide evidence that genetic exchanges between normal and melanic phenotypes are minimal. This genetic evidence is discussed and an eco-biogeographic based hypothesis is advanced.
Fumagalli, M. (1952) -
Funke, O. (1996) -
An unusual behavioural interaction between a female of Lacerta bilineata and a male of Podarcis muralis is described.
Funke, O. (1999) -
Funke, O. (2001) -
Furieri, P. (1957) -
Furieri, P. (1962) -
Furieri, P. (1964) -
Fuster Bajarano, F. (2021) -
Double mutualism (DM) is a recently observed and considered phenomenon in ecology, in which a same animal species pollinates and disperses a same plant species. Very few DMs have still been reported, and little is known about their occurrence and species involved. Generalist and opportunist animal species, which have broad diet niches and sometimes act as efficient pollinators and seed dispersers, might be particularly good candidates to stablish double interactions, as they more likely may consume nectar, pollen and fruits of a same plant. Still little information exists, however, about their effectiveness compared to specialised species. This thesis aims to improve knowledge on the novel phenomenon of double mutualism, paying special attention on the importance of opportunistic nectarivores. Specifically, the thesis has three main research questions: Where DMs are more frequent and which are the taxa mainly involved in them (chapter 1)? We conducted a systematic review of published and unpublished data to provide geographical, taxonomical and ecological baseline information for future research on DMs. Most DMs occur in tropical and island ecosystems, involving mainly opportunistic vertebrate nectar consumers and generalist plants. Moreover, nearly 30 % of the species involved in DMs are threatened. High prevalence of DMs on islands and their vulnerability suggest that many DMs are also threatened with still unknown consequences for the maintenance of community composition and ecosystem functioning. How important opportunistic animals can be as double mutualists (chapters 2 - 3)? We analysed the role of a nectar-opportunist lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) who visits the flowers and consumes the fruits of the plants Ephedra fragilis and Cneorum tricoccon. Given that conspecific individuals may have different potential roles in pollination and seed dispersal, and, thus may have different consequences for plant success, intraspecific variation was integrated in the observational work and analyses. Our results show that P. lilfordi acted as an effective double mutualist, however, lizards were differently involved in both pollination and seed dispersal. On E. fragilis, adult lizards were the most involved; but, on C. tricoccon female and juveniles were the main nectar consumers, and consequently pollinators, while males were the main fruit consumers and seed dispersers. Our results support the hypothesis that intraspecific differences in mutualistic species constitute important differences which may result in different mutualistic roles. Thus, studies performed at the species level might mask the real function of intraspecific groups and/or individuals on mutualistic interactions. How important nectarivore opportunist vertebrates can be relative to specialists and insects (chapter 4)? We measured and compared pollination effectiveness (PE) of vertebrate and insect pollinators of three plant species in the Seychelles archipelago (Thespesia populnea, Polyscias crassa and Syzygium wrightii), measuring quantity and quality components. Our study indicates that some Seychelles plant species depend on insects and specialised vertebrate pollinators, but also on opportunistic vertebrate nectar-feeders. The data on T. populnea and S. wrightii supported the hypothesis that specialist nectar feeders have higher PE than opportunistic nectar-feeding species; by contrast, the generalist geckos were more effective pollinators than specialist animals on P. crassa. Furthermore, we showed that PE of a particular pollinator species varies depending on the plant species, regardless of its feeding behaviour. Results also highlight the vulnerability of pollination interactions to invasive alien species, as the ABSTRACT 28 PE of vertebrate pollinators was compromised by the presence of the invasive yellow crazy ant, Anoplolepis gracilipes, which primarily reduced their flower visitation rates. This thesis contributes with a wide picture of DMs around the World, and with some analysed examples. It also underlines that measuring effectiveness of interactions and their components is important and need to be integrated in mutualistic studies, as well as focus such studies at intraspecific level, otherwise the real function of each intraspecific group is masked. We hope that this thesis is the beginning of a change in the way of perceiving and studying mutualisms and, in general, ecological interactions.
Fuster, F. & Traveset, A. (2019) -
An increasing number of double mutualisms (i.e. two interacting species benefiting each other in two different functions, e.g. pollination and seed dispersal) have been reported, mainly from island ecosystems, although we still lack much information on how effective such species are in both processes. Here, we assessed the pollination effectiveness of a double mutualism between an ancient Mediterranean gymnosperm, Ephedra fragilis Desf., and a lizard, Podarcis lilfordi L. On the one hand, we assessed the lizard contribution to different fitness measures (seed set and germination success), relative to that of insects and the wind effect; on the other, we determined the lizards’ seed removal rate (i.e. the quantity component of seed dispersal effectiveness). In both processes, we further tested for differences in their contributions among male, female and juvenile lizards. Ephedra fragilis showed to be mostly anemophilous, lizards and insects playing only a minor role on seed set. However, lizards qualitatively contributed to pollination success, as seeds coming from lizard-pollinated cones germinated at higher rates than those pollinated by wind or insects, although this was detected only for small seeds (<8mg). The plant produced a low seed set (c. 23%), which was compensated by a high seed germinability (c. 70%). Adult male lizards were those most implicated in pollination, quantitatively more important than insects, and in seed dispersal. This work, thus, reports the importance of a lizard species in one of the few double mutualisms found in the world involving a gymnosperm, and it represents the first documentation of a double mutualism in the Mediterranean region. Our findings further contribute to highlight the role of both inter- and intra-specific differences in the effectiveness of mutualistic interactions.
Fuster, F. & Traveset, A. (2020) -
Although most plants depend on different animals for pollination and seed dispersal, sometimes the same animal species provides both functions, being thus involved in what has been termed a ‘double mutualism’. Very little is known on the effectiveness of such species as both pollinators and seed dispersers, and even less on the intraspecific level differences at the contribution of an animal mutualist to plant fitness. In this study, we focused on the interaction between a Mediterranean shrub Cneorum tricoccon (Rutaceae) and the Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi (Lacertidae) in order to assess: 1) the role of this lizard as a legitimate pollinator of the plant (previously thought to be exclusively insect‐pollinated), and 2) the intraspecific variation in the use of flowers and fruits by lizard individuals, comparing males, females and juveniles. We further evaluated whether lizards show different fruit size selection depending on sex and age, with potential consequences for seed germination. Lizards visited more flowers and selected more hermaphrodite flowers than insects did, leading to relative increases in both fruit and seed set. Interestingly, female and juvenile lizards were the main flower visitors, whereas males were the main fruit consumers. Males selected the largest fruits (bearing the largest seeds) though this did not increase seed germination, which was only ca 15%. We concluded that P. lilfordi acts as a legitimate pollinator of C. tricoccon and, thus, confirm that this system constitutes a new case of double mutualism, especially common in island compared to mainland systems. Moreover, our findings show a large variation among conspecific individuals in their role as either pollinators or seed dispersers, with potential implications for plant reproductive success. Our study, therefore, highlights the importance of evaluating plant–animal interactions at the intraspecific level, and calls for more in‐depth studies on the consequences of such intraspecific variation.
Gabaeva, N.S. (1970) -
Gabelaia, M. (2019) -
Gabelaia, M. & Adriaens, D. & Tarkhnishvili, D. (2017) -
The genus Darevskia comprises over 20 species of small-bodied lizards, mainly occurring in the Caucasus Mountain Region. They show differences in body size, scalation and coloration, however, fully diagnostic characters that could separate the species with a high confidence level are still lacking. The early phylogenetic hypothesis of this group was based on ‘traditional’ analysis of morphology, based on multiple body and head measurements and scalation traits. Later, a molecular phylogeny of the genus rejected some of the proposed topology based on morphological traits. In this paper, we used quantitative morphological data (outline-based shape data) to test phylogenetic similarities, as proposed by these earlier hypotheses. We analyzed the pileus shape and the anal area of more than 200 individuals, representing six species of Darevskia, using outline based elliptic Fourier analysis. The analysis did confirm a clustering of the individuals and species (using UPGMA) from the same mitochondrial DNA clade. Hence, the phylogenetic affinity of the major clades in Darevskia could be identified using both molecular methods and outline analysis, whereas a traditional quantitative morphological analysis could not.
Gabelaia, M. & Tarkhnishvili, D. & Murtskhvaladze, M. (2015) -
The Caucasian rock lizard Darevskia mixta was sampled and studied from throughout its range, using mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences and scalation. The populations of the Greater and the Lesser Caucasus are reciprocally monophyletic matrilineally, and the respective lineages have been separated since the mid-Pleistocene. The lizards from the Greater Caucasus commonly have an unpaired preanal scale, whereas the lizards from the Lesser Caucasus have an additional scale behind the central temporal and subdivided interparietal scale more commonly than those from the Greater Caucasus. The Lesser Caucasus populations are further subdivided into two geographically distinct matrilineages, and are more diverse genetically and morphologically than the Greater Caucasus populations. The central part of the Lesser Caucasus is suggested to be the ancestral area for the entire D. mixta lineage. Successive Pleistocene periods of glaciation appear to be responsible both for the isolation of D. mixta from its common relatives, and for subdivision within D. mixta. Presence of D. mixta in NE Turkey is challenged.
Gabelaia, M. & Tarknishvili, D. & Adriaens, D. (2018) -
Geometric morphometrics is a better tool to evaluate the variation of shape than ‘traditional’ morphometrics. In reptiles, it outperforms morphometrics based on linear measurements and scalation. In an earlier study, two-dimensional outline-based geometric morphometrics in six species of rock lizards (Darevskia) showed that their shapes reflected the species divergence pattern. This allowed us to separate species from different clades, but we could not distinguish closely related species within a clade. We hypothesized that three-dimensional (3D) head shape data would be sufficiently discriminative to identify closely related species. To test this hypothesis, we compared head shapes of three closely related species of the ‘rudis’ clade, Darevskia portschinskii, Darevskia valentini and Darevskia rudis, with the last species treated as two distinct groups (D. r. obscura vs. D. r. rudis), using 3D landmark data. The 3D analysis isolated the species of the ‘rudis’ clade from each other and even separated individuals from populations that showed a genetic introgression pattern. The analysis showed that D. r. obscura is morphologically as distinct from D. r. rudis as from the other nominal species. For this reason, we suggest elevating the status of D. r. obscura to species level, i.e. Darevskia obscura Lantz & Cyrén, 1936.
Gabirot, G. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2012) -
Interpopulational variation in sexual signals may lead to premating reproductive isolation and speciation. Genetic and morphological studies suggest that the Iberian wall lizard, Podarcis hispanica, forms part of a “species complex” with several cryptic species.We explored the role of chemical sexual signals in interpopulational recognition between five distinct populations of Iberian wall lizards in Central Spain. Results showed that these populations differed in morphology and in composition and proportion of chemical compounds in femoral gland secretions of males. Tongue-flick experiments indicated that male and female lizards discriminated and were more interested in scents of lizards from their own area (i.e., Northern versus Southern populations), but did not discriminate between all populations.Moreover, only males fromthe populations that are geographically located more far away preferred scent of females from their own population. These data suggest that, at least between some populations, there may be reproductive isolation mediated by chemical signals and cryptic speciation.
Gabirot, M. (2008) -
Gabirot, M. (2010) -
Gabirot, M. & Balleri, A. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2000) -
Research on fluctuating asymmetry (FA)-mediated sexual selection has focused almost exclusively on visual signals and ignored chemical communication despite the fact that many species rely on chemical signals for attracting mates. Female mate choice based on visual traits appears to be rare in lizards. However, the femoral glands of male lizards produce pheromones which might transmit chemical information about an individual`s developmental stability. Therefore, we hypothesized that mate choice may be based on chemical cues. We analysed the effect of the developmental stability levels of males on the attractiveness of males` scents to females in a laboratory experiment with the lizard Lacerta monticola. When we offered two males of similar body size, females preferentially associated with the scents of males with low FA in their femoral pores and also with the scents of males with a higher number of femoral pores. This suggested that the females were able to discriminate the FA of the males by chemical signals alone and that the females preferred to be in areas marked by males of high quality, thus increasing their opportunities of mating with males of high quality. We suggest that the quality and/or amount of male pheromones could communicate the heritable genetic quality of a male to the female and thereby serve as the basis for adaptive female choice in lizards.
Gabirot, M. & Balleri, A. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2013) -
Populations should adapt to the climate at their respective localities. Here, we examined differences in thermal biology between two populations of Podarcis hispanica lizards from areas with different climates. Lizards from the cold, northern mountains attained lower field body temperatures than lizards form the warm, southern plains. However, the larger body size and darker coloration of northern lizards resulted in slower cooling rates, which may increase efficiency of thermoregulation. Northern populations selected higher temperatures in a thermal gradient, possibly as an adaptation to heat up before conditions changed, as their mountain environment is unpredictable. Finally, lizards from both populations had similar temperature-dependent locomotor performance curves, although southern lizards were relatively faster considering their smaller body size. We suggest that environmental differences may lead to differences in morphology and locally adapted thermal biology in lizards that might allow maximizing thermoregulation in each local climatic conditions
Gabirot, M. & Castilla, A.M. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2010) -
The introduction of alien species to islands by human activity can cause catastrophic consequences for small populations of island endemics. Hybridization between the endangered and endemic insular lizard Podarcis atrata (Boscá, 1916) from the Columbretes Islands (Mediterranean, Spain) and the common mainland lizard Podarcis hispanica (Steindachner, 1870) could potentially occur because mainland haplotypes have already been detected in the islands, the two species are closely genetically related, and the frequency of visitors to these islands is increasing. However, reproductive decisions of lizards are often mediated by species recognition mechanisms based on chemical cues. On the basis of this observation, even if some mainland P. hispanica lizards were introduced to the islands, interspecific recognition might make rare an eventual hybridization with the insular P. atrata. We examined interspecific chemical recognition between the insular P. atrata and the mainland P. hispanica. Our results showed that lizards of both sexes responded more strongly (i.e., directed a significantly higher number of tongue flicks) to scents of conspecific individuals than to scents of heterospecifics. Chemical recognition of conspecifics by endemic island P. atrata lizards may reduce the occurrence of hybridization with introduced mainland P. hispanica lizards and protect the insular gene pool.
Chemical signals can be the basis of interspecific recognition and speciation in many animals. The Columbretes Islands wall lizard, Podarcis atrata is very close genetically to the mainland Iberian wall lizard Podarcis hispanica. However, a previous study suggested that chemosensory interspecific recognition would avoid reproductive interactions and hybridization between these two species. These results suggested that chemicals used in intraspecific communication might differ in composition and/or proportions between these two species. In this paper, we used gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to characterize the chemical composition of the lipophilic fraction from femoral gland secretions of male P. atrata and P. hispanica. The analysis showed that chemicals found in femoral secretions varied in composition and proportions between species and between populations. Seven steroids and two unidentified waxy esters, were exclusive of P. atrata lizards from the islands. In contrast, nine steroids and other six compounds were only found in mainland P. hispanica. There were also differences in proportions of shared compounds between species. Moreover, all these differences were higher between P. atrata and P. hispanica than between any population of P. hispanica. Chemical differences might be consequence of genetic differences, but they could also be explained by adaptation to different habitats with different climatic conditions or diet resources. Compounds that are specific of each species, or differences in the pattern of compounds, could explain species recognition. Therefore, these results of chemical composition and previous studies of chemosensory recognition reinforce the fact that the genetic differences between P. hispanica and P. atrata may result in an effective reproductive isolation between these two taxa.
Gabirot, M. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2006) -
Gabirot, M. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2012) -
Chemical signals are important for mate and species recognition. If variation in chemical signals occurs between populations of the same species, these differences could later preclude mating between populations and lead to speciation. In the Iberian wall lizard, Podarcis hispanica, the lipophilic fraction of femoral secretions of males is mainly a mix of steroids and fatty acids. Among steroids, the most abundant compounds are cholesterol and cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol, which are implicated in intraspecific communication and sexual selection. Interpopulational differences in chemical signals of males, and in response to these chemicals, could contribute to reproductive isolation between populations, which would explain the known genetic differences between these populations. Chemical analyses indicated that five distinct populations of this lizard from Madrid (Central Spain) differed in the proportions of two steroids (cholesterol and cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol) in femoral secretions. Moreover, lizards discriminated and had high chemosensory responses (i.e., high tongue-flick rates) to these steroids, but showed interpopulational differences. Lizards from populations with cold temperatures and high relative humidity (i.e., northern Madrid) elicited higher responses to these steroids, whereas the converse occurred for lizards from populations occupying dry and hot habitats (i.e., southern Madrid). Interestingly, the magnitude of the chemosensory responses to cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol in each population mirrored the abundance of this compound in secretions of males of that population. These results suggest that the importance of cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol in males’ secretions might be lower for lizards from the southern populations. These differences in the relative importance of chemical signals could explain reproductive isolation and cryptic speciation between populations of this lizard.
Gabirot, M. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2012) -
In lizards, femoral gland secretions of males can have an important role in intraspecific communication. However, the chemosensory responses of lizards to specific compounds found in femoral secretions have been little studied. Steroids are the most abundant compounds in secretions, which have been shown to have a signalling function. However, other type of compounds might also be important. In this paper, we explored the role of alcohols in communication of Iberian wall lizards, Podarcis hispanica. We studied chemosensory behaviour, by measuring tongue flick rates, to test whether lizards could recognize several alcohols that are naturally found in femoral secretions. Results showed that lizards can discriminate and show chemosensory responses of different magnitude to different alcohols. The existence of high responses to alcohols suggest that, in addition to steroids, alcohols may also have a signalling function in femoral secretions of male P. hispanica lizards.
Gabirot, M. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2013) -
The Iberian wall lizard Podarcis hispanica forms part of a species complex with several morphologically and genetically distinct types and populations, which may or may not be reproductively isolated. We analyzed whether female mate choice based on males’ chemical signals may contribute to a current pre-mating reproductive isolation between two distinct populations of P. hispanica from central Spain. We experimentally examined whether females choose to establish territories on areas scent-marked by males of their own population, versus areas marked by males of the other population. Results showed that females did not prefer scent-marks of males from their own population. In contrast, females seemed to attend mostly to among-individual variation in males’ pheromones that did not differ between populations. Finally, to test for strong premating reproductive isolation, we staged intersexual encounters between males and females. The population of origin of males and females did not affect the probability nor the duration of copulations. We suggest that the different environmental conditions in each population might be selecting for different morphologies and different chemical signals of males that maximize efficiency of communication in each environment. However, females in both populations based mate choice on a similar condition-dependent signal of males. Thus, male signals and female mate choice criteria could be precluding premating reproductive isolation between these phenotypically “distinct” populations
Gabirot, M. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2014) -
Intraspecific variations in coloration may represent a compromise between selection for intraspecific communication and selection for thermoregulation and predator avoidance. Iberian wall lizards, Podarcis hispanica, exhibit substantial levels of intraspecific variation that cannot be necessarily attributed to genetic differences. We compared variations in coloration and habitat use of three phenotypically distinct populations of P. hispanica in Central Spain. Results suggested that differences in coloration may be related to habitat characteristics and climatic conditions. Thus, lizards from populations with colder temperatures were darker and larger, which may favor thermoregulation. Lizards that lived in habitats with more vegetation and darker granite rocks showed a dark brown to black dorsal coloration. In contrast, lizards from habitats with gypsum and light sandy soil without vegetation or large rocks had a brighter yellow to green dorsal coloration. These differences may increase crypsis to predators in each habitat. There were also differences in the characteristics and relative importance of sexual visual signals (i.e., ventrolateral coloration and number of lateral blue spots) and chemical signals (i.e., number of femoral pores) that might increase efficiency of communication in each environment. Natural selection for traits that allow a better thermoregulation, predator avoidance, and communication might lead to population divergence.
Gabirot, M. & López, P. & Martin, J. & Fraipont, M. de & Heulin, B. & Sinervo, B. & Clobert, J. (2008) -
In spite of the importance of chemoreception in intraspecific communication of lizards, only a few studies have examined chemical composition of secretions of lizards. The secretion of the femoral glands of adult male lizards Lacerta vivipara contains a relatively low number (18) of lipophilic compounds in comparison with other related lacertid lizards. These compounds were identified on the basis of mass spectra, obtained by GC-MS. Chemicals included ten steroids (mainly cholesterol) and four carboxylic acids between n-C12 and n-C18, and minor components such as squalene, α-tocopherol, and two waxy esters, which may contribute to avoid oxidation of other lipophilic components in the fairly humid environments occupied by this lizard. Secretions of adult males from oviparous and viviparous populations did not differ in the numbers and quality of chemical compounds, but there were some differences in the relative proportion of some compounds. Males from oviparous populations had lower proportions of hexadecanoic acid and cholestan-3-one, and higher proportions of squalene than viviparous males. These differences might be explained by either small genetic differences between types or due to different microclimatic conditions in the original populations.
Gábor, H. & Renáta, K. & Katalin, B. & Orsolya, M. & János, T. & López, P. & Martinm J. (2010) -
Gabri, M.S. (2005) -
In female Podarcis taurica the kidney collecting tubule always consists entirely of mucous-secreting cells. In males it has a seasonally variable sexual segment and a non variable mucous-secreting segment. In April the sexual segment is composed of columnar cells with cytoplasm rich in ribosomes and Golgi bodies and apical clusters of large vesicles with fibrous contents. The terminal region of the sexual segment also has pillar-shaped cells resembling those of the mucous-secreting segment. By May the accumulation of apical vesicles reaches a maximum, and many cells have apparently extruded their secretion into the lumen. In July all the cells are pillar shaped with dilated endoplasmic reticulum but with few apical vesicles. In September the sexual segment has some cells resembling those of the mucous-secreting segment and others the sexual segment pillar cells in April. It is suggested that during sexual activity in the spring the sexual segment secretes a spermatozoon-nutrient protein but subsequently reverts to mucous secretion. The non variable mucous-secreting regions in both males and females consist of mucous, intermediate, and dark cells. Mucous cells have apical masses of closely packed droplets, whereas dark cells have dense cytoplasm and small, loosely associated apical vesicles. Intermediate cells have some dark cell features but mucous cell apical vesicles. The dark, intermediate, and mucous cells probably represent activity states of a single type. The mucous secretion is interpreted as a protective material which lines the urinary passage and coats the secreted solid urates. Elaborated intercellular spaces in the mucous-secreting regions may indicate a water absorption capacity in urine concentration.
Gabriel, C.D. (1970) -
Gabrielli, M. & Benazzo, A. & Biello, R. & Ancona, L. & Fuselli, S. & Ianucci, A. & Balacco, J. & Mountcastle, J. / Tracey, A. & Ficetola, G.F. & Salvi, D. & Sollitto, M. & Fedrigo, O. & Formenti, G. & Jarvis, E.D. & Gerdol, M. & Ciofi, C. & Trucchi, E. & Bertorelle, G. (2023) -
The Aeolian wall lizard, Podarcis raffonei, is an endangered species endemic to the Aeolian archipelago, Italy, where it is present only in 3 tiny islets and a narrow promontory of a larger island. Because of the extremely limited area of occupancy, severe population fragmentation and observed decline, it has been classified as Critically Endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Using Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) High Fidelity (HiFi) long-read sequencing, Bionano optical mapping and Arima chromatin conformation capture sequencing (Hi-C), we produced a high-quality, chromosome-scale reference genome for the Aeolian wall lizard, including Z and W sexual chromosomes.The final assembly spans 1.51 Gb across 28 scaffolds with a contig N50 of 61.4 Mb, a scaffold N50 of 93.6 Mb, and a BUSCO completeness score of 97.3%.This genome constitutes a valuable resource for the species to guide potential conservation efforts and more generally for the squamate reptiles that are underrepresented in terms of available high-quality genomic resources.
Gaceu, O. & Josan, I. (2013) -
In the spring of 2013 we identified the species Darevskia pontica in two localities situated on the slope of Metaliferi Mountains, north of the Mureş River. D. pontica inhabits forested areas, being present in the open, grassy sectors near some brooks or on some forest roadsides.
Gachet, H. (1832) -
Gachet, H. (1833) -
Gaczorek, T.S. & Chechetkin, M. & Dudek, K. & Caeiro-Dias, G. & Crochet, P.-A. & Geniez, P. & Pinho, C. & Babik, W. (2023) -
Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes are crucial for the adaptive immune response of jawed vertebrates. Their variation, reaching extreme levels, is driven mainly by an arms race between hosts and pathogens. One hypothesised mechanism contributing to MHC polymorphism is adaptive introgression, the exchange of genetic variants between hybridising species favoured by selection, yet its effect on MHC variation is poorly understood. Detection of adaptive MHC introgression, though challenging, may be facilitated by the analysis of species complexes forming multiple hybrid zones. Here, we investigated MHC introgression in six hybrid zones formed by seven species of Podarcis lizards inhabiting the Iberian Peninsula. To differentiate adaptive introgression from neutral introgression, we compared the patterns of gene exchange in MHC and genome-wide markers. We found elevated sharing of MHC alleles in the proximity of contact beyond the areas of detectable genome-wide admixture in most hybrid zones and, in half of them, asymmetric MHC exchange. In general, the elevated MHC allele sharing between species pairs with abutting ranges compared to geographically isolated species pairs also supports the prevalence of introgression. Collectively, our results demonstrate widespread MHC introgression in the Iberian Podarcis complex and suggest its adaptiveness. Contrary to previous results from Triturus newts, we did not observe differences in the rate of introgression between MHC classes. Our work adds support to the emerging view of adaptive introgression as a key mechanism shaping MHC diversity. It also raises questions about the effect of elevated MHC variation and factors leading to the asymmetry of adaptive introgression.
Gadeau de Kerville, H. (1894) -
Gadel-Rab, A.G. & Mahmoud, F.A. & Saber, S.A. & El Salkh, B.A. & El Dahshan, A.A. & Gewily, D.I. (2018) -
Aim of the work: the present study aimed to illustrate the osteological characters of the appendicular skeleton of two Egyptian lizard species, Acanthodactylus boskianus and Ptyodactylus guttatus and clarify the relationship between characteristics of the appendicular skeleton and mode of their locomotion of the two species. A. boskianus is diurnal insectivorous lizard forage in open area and it is a generalized ground-dwelling species and P. guttatus is a diurno-nocturnal omnivorous gecko which is a highly specialized climbing on vertical substrates. Material and methods: in the present study we used Alizarin red and Alcian blue as double skeletal staining to investigate the the bony and cartilaginous pattern of limbs and girdles of A. boskianus and P. guttatus. Results: in P. guttatus, the pectoral girdle was characterized by the presence of the interclavicles was dagger in shape and partially fused with clavicles, while it was cruciform and completely fused with the clavicles in A. boskianus. In P. guttatus, the epicoraoid was well developed, broad bony plates and fused with the interclavicles, while in A. boskianus it was narrow cartilaginous, plates and overlap in the mid-line. Moreover, in P. gutattus two fenestrae were appeared within coracoid and scapula with un-fenestrated cartilaginous sternum, while one fenestra appeared in both coracoid and sternum of A. boskianus. On other hand, the pelvic girdle of P. guttatus had complete fusions between the pubis, ischium and ilium, while in A. boskianus the pubis articulated poster-omedially with the ischium. In both P. gutattus and A. boskianus, the forelimbs posture was in horizontal plane, while the hind limbs were in vertical plane. In P. gutattus both the fore and hind limbs were relatively equal in length, while the fore limb in A. boskianus was greatly shorter than the hind limb. Conclusion: the P. gutattus is considered as a one of climbers species which have stout appendicular skeleton to support the climbing process on the vertical surface with relatively short limbs, while A. Boskianus is ground-dwellers and also good climbers and use their claws to walk and climbing on rocky areas and these abilities of locomotion depend on the flexibility of skeletal elements of its appendicular skeleton.
Gajsek, T. (2017) -
The Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus and the Dalmatian wall lizard, Podarcis melisellesis are two lizards from the family of Lacertidae. When this two species share same habitat, P. siculus overpowers P. melisellesis as a dominant competitor, usually leading to extinction of P. melisellesis. In this Graduation thesis I was trying to establish the behaviour of these two species of lizards, Podarcis siculus and Podarcis melisellesis in a new environment. In order to do so, we observed habituation period in open field test and 8-arm radial maze. Habituation is an extremely simple form of learning, in which an animal, after a period of exposure to a stimulus, stops responding. We had 28 specimens of each species, 14 females and 14 males. Each experiment lasted 15min or maximum of 23 minutes. We had 3 trials and then compare first and third trial. Parameters of interest were latency time, time spent in the central vs. marginal area and returning into hiding place. We tested for the behavioural differences between the species and sexes.
Galán Regalado, P. (1982) -
Galan Regalado, P. (1989) -
Galán Regalado, P. (1991) -
Galán Regalado, P. & Fernandez Arias, G. (1993) -
Galán, F. (1931) -
Galan, F. (1931) -
Galan, P. (1982) -
Galan, P. (1983) -
Galan, P. (1984) -
Galán, P. (1985) -
Galán, P. (1986) -
Galan, P. (1987) -
Galán, P. (1992) -
Galan, P. (1992) -
Galán, P. (1994) -
Galán, P. (1995) -
Galán, P. (1996) -
Se ha estudiado la incidencia de infecciones externas en una población noroccidental ibérica del lacértido Podarcis bocagei. Estas infecciones llegaron a afectar al 20-30% de los individuos observados en el invierno de 1989-1990 y al 40-60% en el invierno 1990-1991. Los porcentajes de individuos afectados fueron mayores en los meses más lluviosos y fríos. No se encontraron diferencias en las tasas de recaptura entre los individuos afectados y no afectados, lo que parece indicar que estas afecciones no tienen un efecto directo detectable en las tasas de mortalidad. La presencia de esta enfermedad afectó a la reproducción: el 28% de las hembras adultas de talla grande (LCC > 55 mm) que habían estado infectadas, no participaron en el primer período de puestas, durante mayo, mientras que tan sólo el 2.2% de las no afectadas de la misma talla no se reprodujo en ese período. Los individuos jóvenes afectados mostraron tasas de crecimiento significativamente menores que los ejemplares de su misma edad no afectados. Por lo tanto, el efecto de estas infecciones sobre el éxito reproductor se manifiesta principalmente afectando a la participación en la reproducción de las hembras adultas y a las tasas de crecimiento de los individuos jóvenes.
This paper presents data on reproductive and fat body cycles of the oviparous lacertid lizard Podarcis bocagei in northwest Spain. Testes exhibited their maximal volume during December – March and decreased in size throughout the summer. This pattern agrees with the “mixed type” of spermatogenetic cycle proposed by Saint Girtons (1963, 1982). Vitellogenesis started at the end of March or April. Females with oviductal eggs were found from mid-April to mid-July. Oviposition occurs between mid-May and the end of July. Fat bodies of males were smallest during the spring mating period. Female fat body volumes declined during vitellogenesis. No siognificant decline of lipid stores was detected during the winter period (October – March).
Galán, P. (1997) -
This paper presents data on aspects of the reproductive ecology of a population of Podarcn hocagei in northwestern Spam, as monitored over a two-year penod (1990-1991) Data were obtained pnncipally on the basis of mark-recapture expenments, but also from laboratory hatching studies Mating took place between the end of March and July Dunng the laying penod, from May to July, 8 5% of reproductive females produced three clutches, 52 1% two clutches, and 39 4% one clutch In general, single clutches were produced by small females Only a small proportion of large females produced three clutches Mean clutch size was 4 8 eggs (range 4-7) in May, 4 3 (2-6) in June and 3 9 (2-4) in July There was sigmficant vanauon in the mean snout-to-vent length (SVL) of females laying in each month of the season Both clutch size and mean single-egg volume increased with mother`s SVL There was a significant partial correlation between egg volume and clutch size when both mother`s SVL and month of laying were held constant There was no significant between-year vanation in clutch size, breeding females` SVL, egg weight or relative clutch mass A delay in the timing of reproducuve events in one year (1991) is attnbutable to adverse weather conditions dunng early spnng Hatching occurred between July and September Hatch success (as estimated in 1989, 1990 and 1991 from natural nests at the study site) was high, ranging from 83% in 1991 to 91% in 1989 The mean SVL of female hatchlings was greater than that of male hatchlings By contrast, adult females had lower mean SVL than adult males
Colonization by reptiles and amphibians of the spoil benches of the Meirama opencast lignite mine in northwest Spain was studied over the 10 years following the start of the revegetation process. At Meirama, spoil benches are initially fertilized and hydroseeded with a pasture mix, but are subject to little subsequent management and are gradually colonized by scrub vegetation characteristic of the region. Herpetofauna censuses were carried out (1) yearly on a single 2 ha plot over the 6 years following hydroseeding, and (2) in a single year on ten 2 ha plots which had been hydroseeded between 0 and 10 years previously. In addition, censuses were carried out on three undisturbed `control` plots close to the mine. Fifteen species (nine amphibians and six reptiles) were detected in one or more of the spoil-bench plots. Recolonization is particularly rapid after the first 2-3 years posthydroseeding, and is clearly closely related to habitat development due to revegetation and natural succession. The first reptile species to colonize the study plots was Podarcis bocagei (first year), and the first amphibians Alytes obstetricans and Rana perezi (second year). Species composition was most similar to that in control plots in the oldest (ten-year-old) spoil plots.
Galán, P. (1999) -
En el presente artículo se realiza un inventario de las especies de anfibios y reptiles presentes en las islas de Galicia. También se presentan algunos datos sobre la ecología y la morfología de algunas poblaciones insulares de estas especies. La herpetofauna de las islas gallegas está compuesta por tres especies de Urodelos, siete de Anuros, siete de Saurios y cuatro de Ofidios. Las especies más ampliamente distribuidas en las islas de la costa de Galicia son las lagartijas del género Podareis. Por otro lado, las especies de anfibios son las que tienen una distribución más restringida, no habitando más que las islas de mayor tamaño, con la excepción de algunas poblaciones de Salamandra salamandra, que viven en pequeños islotes.
Galán, P. (2000) -
Adults of Bocage`s Wall Lizard (Podarcis bocagei), a lacertid endemic to the northwestern Iberian Peninsula, generally show marked sexual dichromatism with males having green dorsal coloration and females brown dorsal coloration. In some populations, however, some adult females show dorsal coloration similar to that of males. I used mark-recapture methods to study a population of this type on a coastal promontory in A Coruña. A proportion of adult females showed green dorsal coloration during the reproductive period (April–July), but not during the rest of the year. Green dorsal coloration was most frequent among females with oviductal eggs, whereas preovulatory females with vitellogenic follicles in all cases showed brown dorsal coloration. These findings suggest that the green dorsal coloration observed in some females may be related to stage in the reproductive cycle, with green coloration developing during the gravid phase (i.e., with fertilized eggs). The findings also raise the possibility that the function of this coloration may be to avoid harassment and copulation attempts by males following fertilization. According to this hypothesis, females show brown dorsal coloration during the receptivity period (and during the nonreproductive period). Following fertilization, and possibly as a result of the hormonal changes that accompany ovulation and fertilization, they develop green dorsal coloration. This suggests that coloration, in these lacertids as in other reptiles, plays an important role in social communication.
Galán, P. (2001) -
Galan, P. (2002) -
Galán, P. (2002) -
Galán, P. (2003) -
Here I report on the reproductive characteristics of an insular population of the lacertid lizard Podarcis hispanica, which inhabits the Cíes Islands, an archipelago formed by three small islands off the northwest coast of Spain. The clutch characteristics of the population were investigated on the basis of clutches laid by pregnant females captured on these islands in 1999 and 2000. Other data were obtained principally by mark-recapture experiments. The egg-laying cycle of live females was determined by ventral palpation. Enlarged follicles were detected from March to July, and the laying period extended from April to the second half of July. The larger females initiated reproductive activities early in the season and produced up to three clutches annually, whereas the smaller individuals laid only a single clutch. Reproductive performance was related mainly to female size. Clutch size, individual egg mass, clutch mass, and hatchling size increased with the length of the females. I also examined the extent to which the reproductive characteristics of this insular population of P. hispanica diverged from those in other populations of the same species. I found no pronounced differences between these populations and other mainland populations of the same species of like body size. Several hypotheses may be proposed to explain the lack of major differences in reproductive characteristics (egg size and number). The first has to do with the relatively short length of time that this population has been isolated, and, therefore, it would still be too early for any divergence to have manifested itself. A second hypothesis is that the selection gradient for reproductive traits on the Cíes Islands may have remained similar to that on the mainland. A third hypothesis deals with the limitations imposed by the reduced body volume of this small-sized species on egg growth in conjunction with the shorter laying period of this population in an Atlantic climate.
Galán, P. (2004) -
Mark-recapture techniques were used to investigate population size, age distribution, size distribution and sex ratio in a population of the lacertid lizard Podarcis bocagei in an abandoned gravel pit in northwest Spain. The study was carried out over a 2-year period. Despite relatively high maximum longevity, the population age distribution was characteristic of small, short-lived lizard species (i.e., there was a relatively high proportion of immature individuals).Population size declined over the study period, largely because of a drop in the number of immature animals: this may be partially attributable to density-dependent factors, but was probably due largely to a decline in habitat favourability as a result of colonisation of the study site by vegetation. The sex ratio was signi. Cantly female-biased in all cohorts studied, not only among adults but also among juveniles and sub-adults. However, sex ratio at hatching (as investigated by laboratory hatching of clutches laid by captured pregnant females) did not differ signi. cantly from one-to-one. There was no difference found in survival probabilities between males and females. The observed bias in sex ratio must therefore be attributed to between-sex differences in net emigration.
Galán, P. (2005) -
Galan, P. (2005) -
The main threats to the amphibians and reptiles of Galicia (NW Spain) are studied in relation to the information obtained during the last 30 years (1975-2005). The most negative factors affecting amphibians and reptiles in this territory are the human alteration of both aquatic and terrestrial habitats, and the introduction of exotic species (mainly freshwater crustaceans and fishes). These menaces have led to the extinction of some Galician populations of amphibian and reptiles. Other factors, such as emergent diseases, can be very important, but they have not been studied yet. This last threat is one of the main causes for the global amphibian decline. The recent status of the Galician herpetofauna is also analysed. According to the main population declines and areal reduction observed, the most endangered amphibian species is Pelobates cultripes. Other amphibians, such as Chioglossa lusitanica, Rana iberica and Rana temporaria, are also importantly put at risk. The most endangered reptile species is Emys orbicularis. The restricted and limited Galician populations of Lacerta vivipara, Chalcides bedriagai and Vipera latasti are also threatened. The available information for other reptile species (Blanus cinereus, Psammodromus hispanicus, etc.), is still very scarce, but it is possible that their situation is also precarious. The particular status of the insular populations of amphibians and reptiles from the islands off the Galician coast is also analysed.
Galán, P. (2006) -
Galán, P. (2008) -
Changes in the coloration of the lacertid lizards Iberolacerta monticola and Podarcis bocagei with age in populations from NW Spain are described. The onset of sexual maturity in P. bocagei males involves a change in the ventral (yellow) and dorsal (green) colorations, which is different from immature males (dorsally brownish in color). In I. monticola males, the ventral coloration also changes to a deep green when they reach maturity, while the dorsal coloration remains brownish as in the immature specimens. In this species, the green dorsal coloration is acquired gradually after maturity. Only the oldest individuals have a predominantly green dorsal coloration. The differences between the two species in the time males take to acquire the green dorsal coloration could be related to their diff erent longevity. The coloring is acquired gradually in the most long-lived species ( I. monticola ). A field study was carried out on the behaviour of adult males of I. monticola during the reproductive period. The males with green dorsal coloration were seen to pair with females signifi cantly more frequently than those with the brownish dorsal color. The increase in the green dorsal coloration (conspicuous) with the size and age of the males of this species would appear to have a clear function as an intersexual or intrasexual signal.
Galán, P. (2009) -
Galan, P. (2010) -
Galán, P. (2011) -
Galan, P. (2011) -
Galan, P. (2012) -
Galan, P. (2015) -
Galan, P. (2019) -
Galan, P. (2020) -
Galan, P. (2021) -
Galán, P. & Arribas, O. (2007) -
Galán, P. & Ferreiro, R. & Naviera, H. F. (2007) -
Galan, P. & Nieto Santin, J.E. & Vázquez Grana, R. & Fernández Pérez, J. (2013) -
Galán, P. & Oskyrko, O. & Carretero, M.A. (2023) -
Galán, P. & Remón, N. & Vila, M. & Fernández, E. & Naveira, H. (2006) -
Galán, P. & Vázquez-Graña, R. & Rodríguez-Lamela, F. & Ferreiro, R. (2010) -
Galán, P. & Vázquez, R. (2010) -
Galán, P. & Vázquez, R. & Cabana, M. (2011) -
Galán, P. & Vicente, L. (1998) -
Galan, P. & Vicente, L. (2003) -
Galán, P. & Vila, M. & Remón, N. & Naveira, H.F. (2007) -
The Iberian rock lizard (Iberolacerta monticola) has gone extinct or severely declined in several low-altitude and isolated populations in Galicia during the last three decades. In order to assess the conservation status of this species in NW Iberia, we recorded morpho- and eco- logical data of individuals from eleven localities of this area. In addition, the genetic variability of these specimens was screened by combi- ning nuclear (microsatellite) and mitochondrial markers (470 bp from the control region). The population established at O Pindo (A Coruña), at least 100 km apart from other populations, shows a conspicuous diagnostic difference in its mitochondrial lineage and the largest diffe- rentiation at microsatellite loci, as well as some morphological differentiation most likely linked to the particular habitat of this site, a relatively arid and rocky environment.
Galdon, M.A. (2007) -
Galdón, M.A. & Roca, V. & Brabosa, D. & Carretero, M.A. (2006) -
A survey of gastrointestinal helminth communities of Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis carbonelli (Sauria: Lacertidae) from NW Portugal was conducted to determine the prevalence, intensity and diversity of intestinal parasites in these lizards. A few parasite species were found in both hosts, their prevalences, mean intensities and abundances of infection being low or very low. Low values of richness and abundance of parasite species were also found in the helminth infracommunities of individuals of both host species. These low values of parameters of infection and diversity are discussed and compared between both host species and among other Iberian lacertid lizards.
Galeotti, P. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Sacchi, R. & Gentilli, A. & Pupin, J. & Rubolini, D. & Fasola, M. (2010) -
In polymorphic species of animals, colour morphs may show alternative physiological properties, and hence evolve or be maintained as an indirect response to selection exerted on these physiological attributes. In this study, we investigated if different colour morphs (white, red and yellow) of the polymorphic common wall lizard differed in their physiological responses to a long-term stress by determining variation between capture and release in leukocytes profiles, haemoparasite loads and body condition of male and females maintained in captivity throughout the breeding season. We found that most blood parameters of lizards varied significantly following captivity, and this variation was sex-, morph- and size-dependent. In particular, the heterophil:lymphocyte ratio (H:L), a sensitive measure of immunodepression and long-term stress, varied significantly among yellow females, larger individuals significantly increasing and smaller individuals decreasing their H:L ratio after captivity. This trend was reversed in red females, where smaller individuals presented raised H:L index at release. Our study indicated that response to long-term stressful conditions, such as those induced by captivity, differed among common wall lizard colour morphs, implying a sex-, size-(i.e. age) and morph-specific sensitivity to stress, and hence a different physiological profile of colour morphs, which may contribute to the maintenance of colour polymorphism in this species.
Galeotti, P. & Sacchi, R. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Bellati, A. & Cocca, W. & Gentilli, A. & Scali, S. & Fasola, M. (2013) -
Colour polymorphism (CP) is widespread in animals, but mechanisms underlying morph evolution and maintenance are not completely resolved. In reptiles, CP is often genetically based and associated with alternative behavioural strategies, mainly in males for most cases. However, female colour morphs also display alternative reproductive strategies associated with behavioural and physiological traits, which may contribute to maintain CP in the population. Both sexes of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) show three pure colour morphs, white, yellow and red. Here, we looked for the effects of male and female colour morphs on fitness traits of captive-breeding pairs. All yellow-throated females laid clutches of many small eggs and produced many light offspring, behaving as r-strategists, whereas white-throated females laid clutches of few large eggs and produced few heavy offspring, behaving as K-strategists. Red-throated females adopted a conditional Kr-strategy depending on their size/age. These basic female strategies were modulated in relation to mate morph: white females had the best fitness gain in terms of viable offspring when mated to red males; mating between yellow morphs yielded a greater breeding success than all other morph crosses, but also lighter offspring; finally, red females produced heavy progeny when paired with red or white males, and light offspring in pair with yellow males.
Galewski, T. (2001) -
Le statut taxonomique de Psammodromus microdactylus, lézard endémique très rare du Maroc, et de P. blanci, espèce très proche localisée au Maghreb oriental, n`est pas clairement défini. D`autre part, à ce jour, aucune étude n`avait encore été réalisée sur les spécimens de P. blanci capturés au nord-est du Maroc qui présentent pourtant une morphologie intermédiaire entre les deux espèces. Les résultats des analyses statistiques réalisées à partir de variables morphometriques discriminent nettement Psammodromus blanci et P. microdactylus qui constituent donc bien deux unités taxonomiques distinctes. Ces résultats semblent montrer de surcroît, F existence de deux ensembles au nord-est du Maroc, les populations établies entre Melilla et la frontière algérienne qui seraient conspécifiques de P. blanci et celles présentes autour de Debdou qui ne se rangent clairement dans aucune des deux espèces. Bien qu`il ne nous soit pas possible de conclure à partir de l`examen d`un seul individu, sa présence au milieu de la zone de fracture biogéographique de la Moulouya dans un milieu original (la steppe à alfa) rend possible l`existence d`une unité taxonomique encore non décrite dans cette région.
Galgano, M. (1951) -
Galgano, M. & D´Amore, C. (1954) -
Galgano, M. & D’Amore, C. (1960) -
Galitsyn, D. & Vershinin, V. (2018) -
The study of reptile’s reproductive biology is one of the most searched problems in herpetology. For the first time the reproductive parameters of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758) were studied in the Middle Urals on the example of the northern populations of occidental and oriental macroslopes of the Ural ridge. The fecundity of females, the size of eggs, and the peculiarities of clutches localization were analyzed in the context of the energy optimization for reproduction. The study areas are located in the Middle Urals in the southern part of Sverdlovsk region. The material was collected in 2011–2013. The study included 50 pregnant females and 206 clutches of the sand lizard. The length and width of eggs were measured to calculate their volume. Statistical data processing was carried out with the help of programs MS Excel 2007 and Statistica 8.0. To reveal possible population differences, ANOVA was carried out. To determine the correlation ratios, Pearson correlation coefficient was used. As a result, the negative correlation between the egg volume and total fecundity was revealed. Besides, positive correlation between the egg volume and female’s body size was identified for the sand lizard population inhabiting the oriental foothill. In addition, significant differences between the reproductive strategy of the reptiles inhabiting the occidental and oriental foothills were found. For instance, the occidental lizards have larger number of eggs in the oviducts with relatively small egg size. The opposite trend was detected for urban oriental lizards. The female’s size and egg volume enlargement together with total fecundity decrease appear to be related to the increase in climate continentality from occidental up to the oriental foothills of the Urals. The results show two ways of sand lizard reproductive strategy. The first way with larger fecundity is typical for occidental reptiles. The second way with larger egg size is true to oriental reptiles of the urban population. The optimization of energy consumption for reproduction is realized at the population level.
Galitsyn, D.I. (2014) -
The sand lizard pholidosis spectra including some deviant forms are considered in this paper. The spectra of pholidosis variants in populations on the small territory of the widespread species as well as local micropopulations specific of the lizards were noticed.
Gállego-Castejón, L. & López, S. (1983) -
Gallert, Heike (1989) -
Galliard, J.-F. le & Fitze, P.S. & Ferrière, R. & Clobert, J. (2005) -
The adult sex ratio (ASR) is a key parameter of the demography of human and other animal populations, yet the causes of variation in ASR, how individuals respond to this variation, and how their response feeds back into population dynamics remain poorly understood. A prevalent hypothesis is that ASR is regulated by intrasexual competition, which would cause more mortality or emigration in the sex of increasing frequency. Our experimental manipulation of populations of the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) shows the opposite effect. Male mortality and emigration are not higher under male-biased ASR. Rather, an excess of adult males begets aggression toward adult females, whose survival and fecundity drop, along with their emigration rate. The ensuing prediction that adult male skew should be amplified and total population size should decline is supported by long-term data. Numerical projections show that this amplifying effect causes a major risk of population extinction. In general, such an ‘‘evolutionary trap’’ toward extinction threatens populations in which there is a substantial mating cost for females, and environmental changes or management practices skew the ASR toward males.
Galliard, J.-F. le, & Fitze, P.S: & Cotre, J. & Massot, M. & Clobert, J. (2005) -
Sex allocation theory predicts that facultative maternal investment in the rare sex should be favoured by natural selection when breeders experience predictable variation in adult sex ratios (ASRs). We found significant spatial and predictable interannual changes in local ASRs within a natural population of the common lizard where the mean ASR is female-biased, thus validating the key assumptions of adaptive sex ratio models. We tested for facultative maternal investment in the rare sex during and after an experimental perturbation of the ASR by creating populations with female-biased or male-biased ASR. Mothers did not adjust their clutch sex ratio during or after the ASR perturbation, but produced sons with a higher body condition in male-biased populations. However, this differential sex allocation did not result in growth or survival differences in offspring. Our results thus contradict the predictions of adaptive models and challenge the idea that facultative investment in the rare sex might be a mechanism regulating the population sex ratio.
Galliard, J.F. le (2003) -
Galliard, J.F. le & Bris, M. le & Clobert, J. (2003) -
1. Locomotor impairment and shift in thermal preferences during gestation have been documented in some lizards, but few studies have investigated their timing. Here, endurance capacity, sprint speed and selected body temperature of gravid females of the viviparous lizard Lacerta vivipara (Jacquin) were measured weekly before and after parturition. 2. Significant temporal variation of endurance and sprint speed was detected. A marked decrease in locomotor abilities occurred 2 weeks before parturition (c. 35% for endurance and 25% for sprint speed). A rapid recovery was observed a few days after parturition for endurance, while sprint speed recovered more slowly. 3. A physical impairment due to body mass was detected for endurance capacity, but not for sprint speed. The recovery of locomotor abilities after parturition was independent of the intensity of reproductive investment. Mass-independent variation in locomotor performances might be explained by physiological consequences of reproduction independent of the physical burden. 4. Females basking under laboratory conditions selected low body temperatures during the final month of gestation (29•8 °C ± 0•12 SE) and a drastic increase occurred in the few days following parturition (33•4 °C ± 0•13 SE). 5. These results call for a more detailed investigation of the mechanisms underlying trade-offs between reproduction, locomotion and thermoregulation in lizards.
Galliard, J.F. le & Clobert, J. & Ferrière, R. (2004) -
Strong evidence for a genetic basis of variation in physical performance has accumulated. Considering one of the basic tenets of evolutionary physiology--that physical performance and darwinian fitness are tightly linked--one may expect phenotypes with exceptional physiological capacities to be promoted by natural selection. Why then does physical performance remain considerably variable in human and other animal populations? Our analysis of locomotor performance in the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) demonstrates that initial endurance (running time to exhaustion measured at birth) is indeed highly heritable, but natural selection in favour of this trait can be unexpectedly weak. A manipulation of dietary conditions unravels a proximate mechanism explaining this pattern. Fully fed individuals experience a marked reversal of performance within only one month after birth: juveniles with low endurance catch up, whereas individuals with high endurance lose their advantage. In contrast, dietary restriction allows highly endurant neonates to retain their locomotor superiority as they age. Thus, the expression of a genetic predisposition to high physical performance strongly depends on the environment experienced early in life.
Galliard, J.F. le & Cote, J. & Fitze, P.S. (2008) -
Male mating behaviors harmful to females have been described in a wide range of species. However, the direct and indirect fitness consequences of harmful male behaviors have been rarely quantified for females and their offspring, especially for long-lived organisms under natural conditions. Here, lifetime and intergenerational consequences of harmful male interactions were investigated in female common lizards (Lacerta vivipara) using field experiments. We exposed females to male harm by changing the population sex ratio from a normal female-biased to an experimental male-biased sex ratio during the first experimental year. Thereafter, females and their first generation of offspring were monitored during two additional years in a common garden with a female-biased sex ratio. We found strong immediate fitness costs and lower lifetime reproductive success in females subjected to increased male exposure. The immediate fitness costs were partly mitigated by direct compensatory responses after exposure to male excess, but not by indirect benefits through offspring growth, offspring survival, or mating success of offspring. These results support recent empirical findings showing that the direct costs of mating are not outweighed by indirect benefits.
Galliard, J.F. le & Ferriere, R. (2008) -
Hypothesis: One of the basic tenets of evolutionary physiology is that physical performances and fitness are tightly linked. Question: Are phenotypes with exceptional locomotor capacity strongly favoured by natural and sexual selection? Organism: A ground-dwelling, actively foraging and non-territorial lizard species, Lacerta vivipara. Methods: We analysed the relationship between morphology (body size and condition) and maximal endurance capacity in three age classes (juveniles, yearlings, and adult males). We then tested whether morphology and endurance capacity predicted variation in annual body growth, annual survival, and reproductive success. Results: The large variation in maximal endurance capacity observed at hatching has a genetic basis. Endurance capacity increased with body size in juveniles and with body condition in juveniles and yearlings. Endurance capacity was not correlated with annual body growth at any age class. Positive, directional viability selection on endurance capacity was detected for juveniles and yearlings, but not for adult males. Endurance capacity was weakly, positively correlated with male reproductive success. Natural selection in juveniles and sexual selection in adult males was non-linear and the strength of selection decelerated with endurance capacity. Conclusion: In the common lizard, selection on maximal performances is non-linear and varies between age classes. This pattern of weak and inconsistent selection could explain the maintenance of considerable genetic variation of locomotor performance within populations.
Galliard, J.F. le & Ferriere, R. & Clobert, J. (2003) -
Galliard, J.F. le & Ferrière, R. & Clobert, J. (2005) -
The effects of food availability on life-history traits may be direct or delayed and may vary between the sexes. We evaluated the effects of dietary restriction early in life on growth and survival of male and female juveniles in the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) and surveyed the literature on sex-specific sensitivity to the environment in vertebrates. Juvenile lizards were reared in the laboratory during one month following birth under full feeding or under dietary restriction. They were then released in two outdoor enclosures, where we compared growth and survival between treatments during one year. Low food availability early in life led to lower body growth in a direct, but not delayed, manner. The absence of compensatory growth in juveniles that experienced dietary restriction might be explained by their reduced competitiveness. Dietary restriction had a strongly negative, delayed effect on survival up to the age of one year that was mediated by selection against smaller individuals. Effects of dietary restriction were not sex-specific, as expected from the similar energetic requirements of male and female juveniles. Hence, food availability has long-lasting consequences on life-history traits that might influence population dynamics in this species.
Galliard, J.F. le & Ferriere, R. & Clobert, J. (2005) -
Galliard, J.F. le & Marquis, O. & Massot, M. (2010) -
1. Demographic theory and empirical studies indicate that cohort variation in demographic traits has substantial effects on population dynamics of long-lived vertebrates but cohort effects have been poorly investigated in short-lived species. 2. Cohort effects were quantified in the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara Jacquin 1787), a shortlived ectothermic vertebrate, for body size, reproductive traits and age-specific survival with mark–recapture data collected from 1989 to 2005 in two wetlands. We assessed cohort variation and covariation in demographic traits, tested the immediate and delayed effects of climate conditions (temperature and rainfall), and predicted consequences for population growth. 3. Most demographic traits exhibited cohort variation, but this variation was stronger for juvenile growth and survival, sub-adult survival and breeding phenology than for other traits. 4. Cohort variation was partly explained by a web of immediate and delayed effects of climate conditions. Rainfall and temperature influenced distinct life-history traits and the periods of gestation and early juvenile life were critical stages for climate effects. 5. Cohort covariation between demographic traits was usually weak, apart from a negative correlation between juvenile and sub-adult body growth suggesting compensatory responses. An agestructured population model shows that cohort variation influences population growth mainly through direct numerical effects of survival variation early in life. 6. An understanding of cohort effects is necessary to predict critical life stages and climatic determinants of population dynamics, and therefore demographic responses to future climate warming.
Galliard, J.F. le & Massot, M. & Landys, M.M. & Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. (2006) -
To elucidate the developmental aspects of the evolution of sexual size dimorphism (SSD), an understanding of the sex-specific ontogeny of body size is critical. Here, we evaluate the relative importance of genetic and environmental determinants of SSD in juvenile common lizards (Lacerta vivipara). We examined the prenatal and post-natal effects of population density and habitat humidity on SSD, as well as the maternal effects of food availability, corticosterone level, humidity and heat regime during gestation. Analyses indicated strong prenatal and post-natal plasticity in body size per se and yielded three main results with respect to SSD. First, SSD in juvenile common lizards matches qualitatively the SSD observed in adults. Secondly, SSD was influenced by none of the prenatal factors investigated here, suggesting poor sex-biased maternal effects on offspring size. Thirdly, SSD was sensitive to post-natal habitat humidity, which positively affected growth rate more strongly in females than in males. Thus, natural variation in SSD in juvenile common lizards appears to be primarily determined by a combination of sexbiased genetic factors and post-natal conditions. We discuss the possibility that viviparity may constrain the evolution of sex-biased maternal effects on offspring size.
Galliard, J.F. le & Paquet, M. & Mugabo, M. (2015) -
Temperament traits are seen in many animal species, and recent evolutionary models predict that they could be maintained by heterogeneous selection. We tested this prediction by examining density-dependent selection in juvenile common lizards Zootoca vivipara scored for activity, boldness and sociability at birth and at the age of 1 year. We measured three key life-history traits (juvenile survival, body growth rate and reproduction) and quantified selection in experimental populations at five density levels ranging from low to high values. We observed consistent individual differences for all behaviours on the short term, but only for activity and one boldness measure across the first year of life. At low density, growth selection favoured more sociable lizards, whereas viability selection favoured less active individuals. A significant negative correlational selection on activity and boldness existed for body growth rate irrespective of density. Thus, behavioural traits were characterized by limited ontogenic consistency, and natural selection was heterogeneous between density treatments and fitness traits. This confirms that density-dependent selection plays an important role in the maintenance of individual differences in exploration-activity and sociability.
Galliard, J.F. le & Paquet, M. & Pantelic, Z. & Perret, S. (2011) -
The marking of small animals for long-term ecological studies requires unambiguous and permanent techniques that cause minimal harm. Toe-clipping is frequently used to identify small lizards in the field, but it has been suggested that passive integrated transponders (PIT tags) should be preferred. Here, we evaluate the costs and benefits of new miniature PIT tags to mark the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara). Our protocol enables permanent marking of lizards as small as 1.3 grams with maximal implantation success in the abdominal cavity. Tag injection caused no observable increase in plasma corticosterone levels over five days and no negative effects on long-term growth and survival. However, tag injection had negative effects on locomotor activity during at least 7 days, possibly implying pain. Continuous research to improve tag implantation is needed because negative effects may be caused by anaesthesia and injection rather the tag retention itself. This study demonstrates the utility of combining physiological, behavioural and life history measurements to assess marking stress and pain in animals.
Galliard, J.F.le & Rozen-Rechels, D. & Lecomte, A. & Demay, C. & Dupoué, A. Meylan, S. (2021) -
Thermoregulation is critical for ectotherms as it allows them to maintain their body temperature close to an optimum for ecological performance. Thermoregulation includes a range of behaviors that aim at regulating body temperature within a range centered around the thermal preference. Thermal preference is typically measured in a thermal gradient in fully-hydrated and post-absorptive animals. Short-term effects of the hydric environment on thermal preferences in such set-ups have been rarely quantified in dry-skinned ectotherms, despite accumulating evidence that dehydration might trade-off with behavioral thermoregulation. Using experiments performed under controlled conditions in climatic chambers, we demonstrate that thermal preferences of a ground-dwelling, actively foraging lizard (Zootoca vivipara) are weakly decreased by a daily restriction in free-standing water availability (less than 0.5°C contrast). The influence of air humidity during the day on thermal preferences depends on time of the day and sex of the lizard, and is generally weaker than those of of free-standing water (less than 1°C contrast). This shows that short-term dehydration can influence, albeit weakly, thermal preferences under some circumstances in this species. Environmental humidity conditions are important methodological factors to consider in the analysis of thermal preferences.
Galliers, A. (1981) -
Gallina, S. & Maury, Ma. E. & Rogovin, K. & Semenov, D. (1985) -
Este trabajo tuvo como objetivo comparar las comunida- des de lagartijas de habitats similares: dunas de la Reserva de la Biosfera de Mapimí, México y dunas semimóviies de la Reserva de la Biosfera de Repetek, URSS, a través del análisis de la riqueza específica, diversidad, abundancia y ciclos de actividad. Mapimí resultó ser una comunidad más diversa (2.38) y con mayor abundancia de lagartijas (16.9 ind/ha) que Repetek (1.62 y 9.07 ind/ha respectivamente). En relación a los ciclos de actividad se encontraron dos tipos en ambas zonas; el continuo y el discontinuo. los valores más altos en amplitud de nichos para especies de ciclo continuo fueron para Urna exsul (Ds = 0.704) y Phrynocephalus interscapularis (Ds = 0.647), mientras que para especies de ciclo discontinuo fueron para Cnemidophorus tigris (Ds = 0.404) y Eremias grammica (0.368). la sobreposición del nicho temporal en Mapimí fue entre Uta stansburiana y C. tigris (R = 0.86) y en Repetek P. interscapularis y E. grammica (R=0.65). Se identificaron como equivalentes ecológicos y otológicos, en las comunidades de Mapimí y Repetek a: Urna exsul con Phrynocephalus interscapularis y Cnemidophorus tigris con Eremias grammica.
Gallo Barneto, R. & Cabrera Pérez, M.A. & Martín Alonso, A. (2023) -
The Californian kingsnake was detected in Gran Canaria in 1998. At present, it is settled in four different populations – located in the northwest, northeast, east and south of the island – and its effects are evident in endemic reptiles’ populations. Since 2008, the Government of the Canary Islands and Gran Canaria County Council work together to stop the spread and control population growth of this species. The evolution of the North American snake invasion for the last 25 years is explained, presenting what management instruments are used and results obtained to date. The control actions carried out in this period are presented, highlighting the improvement in manual capture methods –by adapting human resources of the project to the phenology of the species– and in the use of traps as important milestones. Moreover, captures analysis, which include a significant amount obtained through citizens warnings, highlight the importance of public help. The creation of an Early Warning System – where several communication channels are available to receive such warnings – in addition to dissemination campaigns has been essential to promote citizen participation. Additionally, having a communication strategy, based on social media and uptodate related content hosted in a project website, have become an essential rise of awareness element promoting the call for action through volunteering activities and informative workshops. Furthermore, the biosecurity measures promoted in recent years –implemented to avoid passive transport of snake specimens to various points of the island or outside of it, are presented. Since August 2022, a canine unit has been working in an area of interest, Mercalaspalmas (logistics center for the distribution of agrifood products in Gran Canaria), following a specific protocol to prevent the entry of snakes into its facilities. In the future, it is proposed to extend these biosecurity actions to other places of interest, such as ports and airports on the island. At the same time, dog training for detection of snakes in natural environments is presented. Finally, an insight is given on the R&D trapping systems development. The main objective focuses in the development of entry mechanism designs that will increase the speciesspecific selectivity of the traps. Additionally, specimens’ presence detection has been improved by developing sensors installed inside traps and the technology necessary to receive warnings of such presence. After more than a decade fighting against the invasion of this snake, the prospects are not very optimistic. At present, eradication is considered impossible on the island. Compensatory measures are required as to compensate for the impacts the California kingsnake is causing, especially in giant lizard of Gran Canaria populations.
Gallozzi, F. & Colangelo, P. & Senczuk, G. & Castiglia, R. (2022) -
The geographic variability of the dorsal pattern (DP) of the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus, across its native range was studied with the aim to understand whether the distributions of this phenotypic trait were more shaped by allopatric differentiation rather than adaptive processes. A total of 1298 georeferenced observations scattered across the Italian peninsula and the main islands (Sicily, Corsica and Sardinia) were obtained from citizen science databases and five DPs were characterized by different shapes of the dark pattern (“reticulated”, “campestris”, “reticulated/campestris” and “striped”) or by absence of it (“concolor”). Frequencies of different DP phenotypes differ between the two main mtDNA lineages settled in central-northern and in southern Italy respectively. This pattern may be indicative of a role of long-term allopatric historical processes in determining the observed pattern. The analysis also identified a putative wide area of secondary contact, in central southern Italy, characterized by high diversity of the DP. Generalized Linear Models (GLMs), used to estimate a possible association between bioclimatic variables and the observed phenotypic variation, showed that each of the five DPs is correlated to different environmental factors and show different distribution of areas with high probability of occurrence. However, for all but one of the DPs, the area with the greatest probability does not correspond exactly to the real distribution of the DP. Conversely, the “concolor” phenotype does not seem related to any particular mtDNA lineage and it shows a preference for areas with high temperature and low rainfall. This is in agreement with the expectation of low amount of melanin of the dorsal pattern that, in the study areas, is characterized by a light uniform coloration which could confer a better thermoregulation ability in high temperatures environments avoiding overheating.
Gallozzi, F. & Corti, C. & Castiglia, R. & Avramo, V. & Senczuk, G. & Mattioni, C. & Colangelo, P. (2023) -
The Tuscan Archipelago is one of the most ancient and ecologically heterogeneous island systems in the Mediterranean. The biodiversity of these islands was strongly shaped by the Pliocene and Pleistocene sea regressions and transgression, resulting in different waves of colonization and isolation of species coming from the mainland. The Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus, is present on the following islands of the Tuscan Archipelago: Elba, Giglio, Giannutri, Capraia, Montecristo and Cerboli. The species in the area displays a relatively high morphological variability that in the past led to the description of several subspecies. In this study, both the genetic and morphological diversity of P. siculus of the Tuscan Archipelago were investigated. Specifically, the meristic characters and the dorsal pattern were analyzed, while the genetic relationships among these populations were explored with mtDNA and microsatellite nuclear markers to reconstruct the colonization history of the Archipelago. Our results converge in the identification of at least two different waves of colonization in the Archipelago: Elba, and the populations of Cerboli and Montecristo probably originate from historical introductions from mainland Tuscany, while those of Giglio and Capraia are surviving populations of an ancient lineage which colonized the Tuscan Archipelago during the Pliocene and which shares a common ancestry with the P. siculus populations of south-eastern Italy. Giannutri perhaps represents an interesting case of hybridization between the populations from mainland Tuscany and the Giglio-Capraia clade. Based on the high phenotypic and molecular distinctiveness of this ancient clade, these populations should be treated as distinct units deserving conservation and management efforts as well as further investigation to assess their taxonomic status.
Galoyan, E. (2013) -
According to kin selection theory, competition among monoclonal animals must be lower than between unrelated individuals. Thus, we propose that home range and core area overlap in parthenogenetic lizards will be broader than female range overlap in similar gonochoristic species. To test this hypothesis, we examined home range locations and space use of parthenogenetic Armenian Rock Lizards (Darevskia armeniaca) and compared them with home range locations and space use of gonochoristic species. We demonstrated that parthenogenetic Rock Lizards have a total range structure typical of insectivorous lizards, consisting of a sally zone, a home range, and one or more core areas. Some core areas contained activity centers, associated strongly with key basking sites and shelters. Provisional residents were found within the same range for 1 or 2 years, whereas wanderers visited study sites for 1 or 2 weeks per season. Settlement structure varied greatly among years. Home ranges, core areas, and even activity centers and basking sites of parthenogenetic females overlapped extensively, unlike in females of nonparthenogenic species. Monoclonal origins and high level of relatedness within unisexual species are possible explanations of the extended range overlap among parthenogenetic females.
Galoyan, E. & Bolshakova, A. & Abrahamyan, M. & Petroyan, R. & Komarova, V. & Spangenberg, V. & Arakelyan, M. (2019) -
Valentin’s rock lizard (Darevskia valentini) is suggested to be the parent for several parthenogenetic species (e.g., D. armeniaca, D. bendimahiensis, D. sapphirina, and D. unisexualis) that evolved through hybridization. Complex evolutionary processes (including reticulate evolution) are occurring within the areas where Valentin’s rock lizard coexists with these and other rock lizards. Hence, a detailed biological specification of this species is important for understanding how vertebrates evolve. Valentin’s rock lizard is a long-lived (up to 9 years), small diurnal lizard with larger females than males, which is unlike other species of the genus. Their relatively large eggs and early reproduction period, which occurs just after emergence from winter shelters, are adaptations for living in a high elevation climate (higher than 2 000 m a.s.l.). Their body temperatures (31–32 °С) are comparable to body temperatures of rock lizards living in milder climates, though female body temperature is more dependent on substrate temperature and basking due to their lower activity than that found in males. Population density fluctuates from several individuals to several hundred per hectare and is not affected by parthenogen coexistence, although hybrids do occur in sexually biased populations where males are more common than females. The male home range is larger than that of females, though these home ranges broadly overlap. Prey is not limited in the mountain meadows and Valentin’s rock lizards feed on a great variety of arthropods. Infanticide occurs in high-density populations.
瓦伦汀岩蜥(Darevskia valentini)被认为可能是几种孤雌生殖蜥蜴(如D. armeniaca、D. bendimahiensis、D. sapphirina和D. unisexualis)的祖先,前者通过杂交产生后者。瓦伦汀岩蜥和其它几种蜥蜴的共有的分布区域中,发生了复杂的进化过程(包括网状进化过程),因此,详细了解该物种生物学背景,有利于我们理解脊椎动物的进化过程。瓦伦汀岩蜥是一种寿命较长的(最多可达9年)小型蜥蜴,昼行性,雌性个体体型大于雄性,这一点和同属的其它物种都不一样。该物种的卵相对较大,且繁殖期较早(离开冬眠场所不久以后),这是一种对高海拔生存环境(大于2000米)的适应特征。尽管雌性由于活跃度更低(相较于雄性),其体温更依赖于生活环境的地层温度和取暖行为(晒太阳),但瓦伦汀岩蜥的体温(31–32 °С)和其他生活在温和气候地区的岩蜥区别并不大。瓦伦汀岩蜥的群体密度波动较大,从每公顷几个个体到几百个个体不等,且并不受孤雌生殖的影响。事实上杂交在性别比例偏倚的群体(雄性数量大于雌性)中仍然可能发生。雄性的领域范围比雌性更大,尽管领域间存在广泛的重叠。瓦伦汀岩蜥主要捕食节肢动物,捕食行为发生在包括高山草甸地区的很多地区。群体密度较高时会发生杀婴现象。
Galoyan, E. & Moskalenko, V. & Gabelaia, M. & Tarknishvilii, D. & Spangenberg, V. & Chamkina, A. & Arakelyan, M. (2020) -
The two species of rock lizards, Darevsia raddei and Darevskia portschinskii, belong to two different phylogenetic clades of the same genus. They are supposed ancestors for the hybrid parthenogenetic, Darevskia rostombekowi. The present study aims to identify morphological features of these two species and the potential gene introgression between them in the area of sympatry. External morphological features provided the evidence of specific morphology in D. raddei and D. portschinskii: the species differed in scalation and ventral coloration pattern, however, they had some proportional similarities within both sexes of the two species. Males of both species had relatively larger heads and shorter bodies than females. Males of D. raddei were slightly larger than males of D. portschinskii and had longer hindlimbs. Microsatellite genotyping revealed no traces of hybridization or gene flow among these species. We suggest that the absence of individuals with combined morphological and genetic features of the studied species reflects existing reproductive barriers. The hybridization between two bisexual rock lizard species from distant clades is rare and only takes place under very specific environmental conditions.
Galoyan, E. & Sopilko, N. & Kovalyeva, A. & Chamkina, A. (2022) -
Galoyan, E.A. (2007) -
Galoyan, E.A. (2010) -
Genus Darevskia - diverse multispecies group, which in addition includes gay bisexual species forms that reproduce by parthenogenesis. An accurate estimate is given of the number and distribution of parthenogenetic lizards in different habitats. In the case of sympatric habitat bisexual and parthenogenetic species of rock lizards population density of parthenogenetic species is much higher. Meanwhile, in different habitats population density of the same-sex species can vary significantly, as determined by the distribution of shelters, shelter and supportive for basking and hunting places.
Галоян Э.А. (2010) -
Род Darevskia – разнообразная многовидовая группа, в которую помимо бисексуальных видов вхо дят однополые формы, размножающиеся путем партеногенеза. Дана точная оценка численности и распределения партеногенетических ящериц в различных местообитаниях. В случае симпатриче ского обитания обоеполого и партеногенетического видов скальных ящериц популяционная плот ность партеногенетического вида значительно выше. Между тем в различных местообитаниях плот ность популяции одного и того же однополого вида может значительно различаться, что определя ется распределением убежищ, укрытий и благоприятных для баскинга и охоты мест.
Galoyan, E.A. (2013) -
Galoyan, E.A. & Sopilko, N.G. & Kovalyeva, A.V. & Nikolaev, O.D. & Iryshkov, S.E. & Kropachev, I.I. & Brinev, I.A. & Girnyk, A.E. & Arakelyan, M.S. (2024) -
Parthenogenesis has been discovered in a great number of reptiles, indicating that parthenogens can outcompete bisexual species and hybridize with them. This raises intriguing questions: how do parthenogenetic species coexist with gonochoristic relatives, and what outcome does this coexistence produce? To answer these two questions, we studied relationships between male rock lizards, Darevskia valentini, and parthenogenetic Darevskia armeniaca. We compared social and sexual reactions of males to females of their own species and parthenogenetic D. armeniaca and vice versa. We found that females of both species basked together with males and demonstrated mostly submissive behaviour. Females of D. valentini were less aggressive towards males in the mixed-species population than in the single-species population, suggesting female competition for males. The proportion of successful and unsuccessful mating attempts with females of bisexual and unisexual species was equal, and we found no significant differences in male reactions to bisexual and unisexual females in sympatry. The proportion of females bearing mating scars on their venters and the number of these scars per female were greater in the bisexual species. This indicates that females of the bisexual species were more attractive than parthenogenetic females as mating partners to males. We found no triploid hybrids among the offspring of parthenogenetic females that mated with males in the mixed population. Our findings suggest that parthenogenetic species might outcompete bisexual species by mating with males and integrating into the social system.
Galoyan, E.A. & Tsellarius, E.Y. & Arakelyan, M.S. (2019) -
The parthenogenetic rock lizard Darevskia rostombekowi is considered to be the product of hybridization between female Darevskia raddei and male Darevskia portschinskii. These two species coexist within several secondary contact areas; however, no trace of their hybridization has been previously reported. We conducted focal observations of individually marked lizards in 2017 and 2018 to establish if there is behavioural isolation between these species. We demonstrate that individuals distinguish between lizards of the same and different species. Individuals of both studied species interacted regularly, but we found no evidence of males of either species using interspecific interference competition for resources or for females. Neutral reactions prevailed in the reactions of males to the individuals of the different species; aggressive or submissive behaviour was more common towards males of the same species. The differences in reactions of males to females of the same and different species were less clear and interspecific social interactions were almost as common as intraspecific interactions. Interspecific male mating behaviour was rare and unsuccessful; only a single female with heterospecific copulation marks on the body was found. The mating period in both species overlapped broadly in late May and early June; body size (SVL) in females of both species was equal. Hence, we suggest that the selection of the sexual partner and preference of the conspecific partner for the social and sexual contacts is the most plausible explanation of the revealed behavioural asymmetry in intra- and interspecific relationship.
Galvagni, E. (1902) -
Galvez Bravo, L. & Belliure, J. & Rebollo (2009) -
Gambaryan, P.P. & Korolev, V.N. (1999) -
A rapid film of a jumping sand lizard, Lacerta agilis, has revealed it to show distinct asymmetrical locomotor activity. A symmetrical diagonal pattern which is commonly characteristic of lizards is considered to be a higher adaptation for rapid terrestrial locomotion among the Tetrapoda. The fact that lizards under certain circumstances are able to use an asymmetrical pattern as well, can hardly help to explain the evolutionary change to asymmetrical locomotion.
Gamble, H.J. (1952) -
Ganesh, S.R. & Arumugam, M. (2015) -
We examined the distribution pattern, across-site similarities and zoogeographic affinities of amphibians and reptiles in the montane zones (> 900 m a.s.l.) of the Southern Eastern Ghats mountains in peninsular India. We deployed long-term field surveys in four select massifs namely Jawadi, Shevaroys, Kolli and Sirumalai and generated herpetofaunal species lists. Based solely on our species occurrence data, we identified taxa that characterise sites, site-pairs and site-clusters. We quantified the number of the various target taxa characterising each such Operational Geographic Unit. To infer faunal similarities, we performed cluster analysis using Jaccard’s similarity index. Our cluster diagram tree topologies differed between the various target taxa. The pooled data (amphibians, lizards and snakes) tree topology was similar to that of the lizard trees but the amphibian- and snake-similarity trees were similar in their topologies. Our observations and analyses indicate that physical separation distance and intervening rivers between massifs decreased herpetofaunal similarity. To identify the zoogeographic affinities of range-restricted taxa, we segregated the species into classes, based on decreasing extent of their geographic ranges. Our analyses reveal that widespread species were predominant in this community even at high elevations, followed by Western Ghats dispersers, Eastern Ghats endemics (both presumed and confirmed), and lastly peninsular Indian and Sri Lankan elements.
Ganesh, S.R. & Arumugam, M. (2016) -
We examined the amphibian and squamate reptilian species richness of Southern Eastern Ghats based on a long term-field survey with nearly two years of field days. We surveyed high elevation slopes (>900 m a.s.l.) of four select hill ranges namely Jawadi, Shevaroys, Kolli, and Sirumalai hills which comprehensively represented full geographical and spatial coverage. We present a descriptive species-account with basic morphological data sup- ported by voucher photographs. We summarize the history of herpetological explorations in this landscape and also comment on some of the major previous works in the region. Our study revealed the presence of 62 species in the montane zones, including 32 (51%) new records involving all the three target taxa (frogs, lizards and snakes) and all the four hill ranges that testify the poor knowledge on the region’s herpetofauna till date. Lastly, we remark on the unresolved taxonomic status of some species recorded in the present study. We recommend specimen-based revisionary works in the nearby Western Ghats, where such taxa are much more diverse, to enable taxonomic stud- ies in this region.
Ganesh, S.R. & Chandramouli, S.R. (2017) -
Ganesh, S.R. & Kalaimani, A. & Karthik, P. & Baskaran, N. & Nagarajan, R. & Chandramouli, S.R. (2018) -
We surveyed for herpetofauna along the poorly-explored sections of Southern Eastern Ghats. This 1000 hours-long large scale survey covered ranges stretching from near Western Ghats eastwards to the Coroman- del Coastal Plains, across a longitudinal gradient. Study area consisting of the tall and wet Bilgiri-Melagiri massifs to the west and the low and dry South Arcot and North Arcot ranges to the east were selected and surveyed. We recorded a total of 95 species including 23 species of amphibians, 35 species of lizards and 37 species of snakes. A descriptive species accounts with photographic vouchers is presented. Noteworthy find- ings include significant new range records for many wet-zone taxa and a few dry-zone taxa from hitherto fore under-surveyed regions. This includes many rare and range-restricted ones and newly described little-known taxa. The study highlights the importance of landscape-level, long-term fieldwork to unravel the hidden di- versity of tropical montane regions like the Eastern Ghats.
Gangloff, E.J. & Sorlin, M. & Cordero, G.A. & Souchet, J. & Aubret, F. (2019) -
Warming climates are facilitating the range expansion of many taxa to habitats that were formerly thermally inhospitable, including to higher latitudes and elevations. The potential for such colonization, however, varies widely among taxa. Because environmental factors may interact to affect colonization potential, an understanding of underlying physiological and behavioral mechanisms is necessary to predict how species will respond to potentially suitable habitats. For example, temperature and oxygen availability will interact to shape physiological and performance traits. Our model species, the wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, is a widely distributed ectotherm that continues to expand its range in Europe despite being limited by cold temperatures at high elevations and latitudes. To test the potential for organisms to expand to warming high-altitude environments, we conducted a transplant experiment to quantify the within-individual effects of high-altitude hypoxia on physiological and performance traits. Transplanted lizards maintained individual differences in physiological traits related to oxygen capacity and metabolism (hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, and peak postexhaustion metabolic rate), as well as performance traits tied to fitness (sprint speed and running endurance). Although lizards altered blood biochemistry to increase oxygen-carrying capacity, their performance was reduced at high altitude. Furthermore, lizards at high altitude suffered a rapid loss of body condition over the 6-wk experiment, suggesting an energetic cost to hypoxia. Taken together, this demonstrates a limited potential for within-individual plasticity to facilitate colonization of novel high-altitude environments.
Gangloff, E.J. & Spears, S. & Kouyoumdjian, L. & Pettit, C. & Aubret, F. (2021) -
Ectothermic animals living at high elevation often face interacting challenges, including temperature extremes, intense radiation, and hypoxia. While high-elevation specialists have developed strategies to withstand these constraints, the factors preventing downslope migration are not always well understood. As mean temperatures continue to rise and climate patterns become more extreme, such translocation may be a viable conservation strategy for some populations or species, yet the effects of novel conditions, such as relative hyperoxia, have not been well characterised. Our study examines the effect of downslope translocation on ectothermic thermal physiology and performance in Pyrenean rock lizards (Iberolacerta bonnali) from high elevation (2254 m above sea level). Specifically, we tested whether models of organismal performance developed from low-elevation species facing oxygen restriction (e.g., hierarchical mechanisms of thermal limitation hypothesis) can be applied to the opposite scenario, when high-elevation organisms face hyperoxia. Lizards were split into two treatment groups: one group was maintained at a high elevation (2877 m ASL) and the other group was transplanted to low elevation (432 m ASL). In support of hyperoxia representing a constraint, we found that lizards transplanted to the novel oxygen environment of low elevation exhibited decreased thermal preferences and that the thermal performance curve for sprint speed shifted, resulting in lower performance at high body temperatures. While the effects of hypoxia on thermal physiology are well-explored, few studies have examined the effects of hyperoxia in an ecological context. Our study suggests that high-elevation specialists may be hindered in such novel oxygen environments and thus constrained in their capacity for downslope migration.
Ganschuk, S.V. & Sivkova, T.N. (2014) -
It is known that parasitic worms are an integral part of the natural ecosystem, performing a complex regulatory function. The aim of our study was to investigate the pathological changes that occur in the tissues of lizards exposed to parasites. In histological specimens of small intestine we observed cross sections of nematodes. The bodies of parasites with vaguely expressed organ structure and rounded formations of a small size, were surrounded by a wide strip of acellular eosinophilic mass; in the central parts there was a single rounded basophilic inclusion. On this basis we can assume that there is a formation of fibrosis, a protection against the parasite. Intestinal nematode parasitism in the studied lizards causes building of a xenoparasite barrier. The formation of the xenoparasite barrier is due to the adaptation of a parasitic agent and the host.
Garanin, V.I. (1983) -
Garavelli, P. (1996) -
Garavelli, P. & Paci, A. & Roselli, A. (2001) -
Garcia Cruz, C.M. & Marrero, C.M. & Hernandez, A. (1980) -
Garcia da Vila, A. (2019) -
Circadian rhythms can be defined as specific adaptations of the various cycles presented by organisms to daily environmental oscillations. Evidence has been presented that most of the studied rhythms are endogenous, meaning that they are maintained despite the absence of environmental signals. In spite of their endogenous nature, these rhythms can suffer alterations by means of the modification of the environmental conditions. Over time a number of techniques have been developed for the study of different biological rhythms and in particular circadian rhythms. Although the sleep-wake rhythm is recognized as the most studied within circadian rhythms, it is comparable to the activity-inactivity rhythm, which will be understood as the basis of this work. This project will study the behaviour of a population of 14 organisms of the Gallotia galloti species in different light-dark cycles of 9 days duration (light-dark, constant light and constant dark) by recording their movements by a series of photoreceptor infrared sensors located on each side of an individual cage for each lizard. With the objective of observing the changes produced in the circadian rhythm of the individuals under study during the different cycles with different lighting conditions and to have more information on the functioning of the circadian system in reptiles. The results obtained show obvious variations in rhythm as different lighting periods are applied. It can therefore be said that the application of the different light-dark cycles involves significant changes in the regulation of the endogenous circadian rhythm of the lizard Gallotia galloti.
Garcia de Marcos, G. & Garin-Barrio, I. & Pérez Collazos, E. (2018) -
The frequent lack of biodiversity data on municipal areas favoured the performance of a herpetological study to determine the number of herpetological species in the four most significant types of habitat within the municipality of Navaridas (province of Alava). A number of different sampling surveys were performed (transects, and water net points) during 2015 and 2016. 15 herpetological species (8 amphibians and 7 reptiles) were found. Protected areas showed higher diversity levels, especially in the lake and associated holm oak woodland of Navaridas. The results suggest the possible benefit of low stone walls between vineyard for Podarcis liolepis. This study establishes a starting point for further research projects based on the population densities and evolution of herpetological species, and an assessment of the possible effects of agricultural activities on these populations.
Garcia Marquez, M. & Mateo-Miras, J.A. & Lopez Jurado, L.F. (1998) -
Garcia-Adell, G. & Roca, V. (1988) -
García-Cardenete, L. (2008) -
Garciá-Cardenete, L. & Pérez-Garcia, M.T. (2013) -
Garcia-Cruz, C. & Marrero-Rodriguez, A. (1979) -
Garcia-Diaz, C. & Molina-Borja, M. & Gonzalez-Gonzalez, J. (1989) -
Motor activity of lacertid lizards (Gallotia galloti) was continuously recorded through sensitive platforms during some days in LD and later for up to 20 days in LL. Light intensity was 4.6 μE.s‐1.m2, both during light period of LD and in LL and temperature was maintained constant (28°C ±0.5). The circadian periods, calculated through periodogram analysis, were less than 24 h except in two lizards (out of 8) having a period somewhat longer than 24 h. Ultradian frequencies, obtained by means of a Fast Fourier Transform, were calculated for two consecutive segments of 64 data points (`morning”; and “afternoon”;, respectively) of each lizard and day. The ultradian peaks mainly fell into two bands: 9–36 c/day (= 160–40 min. period range) and 45–90 c/day (32–16 min). In most of the animals, the mean power of the first band was significantly greater (p < 0.05) than that of the second one, both in “morning”; and “afternoon”; segments, but for two lizards the mean power of the second band was significantly greater also in both data segments. These results are compared with those obtained in previous analyses of ultradian bands in LD.
Garcia-Diaz, P. (2011) -
Garcia-Diez, T. & González-Fernández, J.E. (2013) -
A first complete list of the reptile type specimens preserved in the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC) of Ma-drid (updated until 15 July 2012) is provided. The collection houses a total of 319 type specimens representing 24 taxa belonging to 6 families and 12 genera. There are 22 taxa represented by primary types (19 holotypes, 2 neotypes and 1 lectotype) and at least one paratype, and only two taxa are exclusively represented by one secondary type (paratype). The collection is specially rich in Spanish endemisms. Special attention is deserved by the type series of many subspecies of Podarcis lilfordi described by A. Salvador and V. Pérez-Mellado. All type specimens are housed in the Herpetological collection except Blanus mariae and Psammodromus occidentalis type series and Psammodromus hispanicus (neotype) which are preserved in the DNA/Tissues Collection.
Garcia-Fernández, J. (1990) -
Garcia-Márquez, M. & Caetano, A. & Bello, I. & López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J.A. (1999) -
Feral cats are introduced predators spread all over the canary archipelago. Their possible role in the extinction processes undergone by the endemic fauna was investigated by comparing the impact of cat predation on Gallotia simonyi, a big sized, endemic lacertid lizard close to extinction, whith that experienced by other native and introduced species at two sites on El Hierro island. The sympatric, small and widespread G. caesaris, with different life history traits, sourced a good control for comparisons. A general approach to food habits, spatial patterns and activity patterns of feral cats was devised to achieve conclusions. Ecological and social adjustments were similar to those described in other feral populations previously studied. Cats showed a strong dependence on the availability of rabbits. Evidence was found that cats also selected Gallotia lizards as preferred prey, irrespective of their aboundance. Nearly extinction of G. simonyi seems resenzia o largely in terms of predation pressure exerted by cats, and the present day known population is certainly threatened by cats. Hence, feral cat control is invoked as a necessary measure to save the giant lizard from extinction, and recover its former island-wide range.
Garcia-Márquez, M. & J.A. Mateo (2002) -
Garcia-Márquez, M. & López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J.A. (1997) -
Garcia-Márquez, M. & López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J.A. (1999) -
In islands, small sized lizard species are less vulnerbale to mammalian predators introduced by man than big sized species. Since this might be relatied to how the life history traits of the lizards covariate with body size, eco-demographic studies on the small, extinction resistant insular species have value for conservation science. In the small G. caesaris from El Hierro island, early maturity (which involves big hatchling size but small adult size) and multiple broods per season compensate for high mortality rates in a population subjected to kestrel and introduced feral cat predation. A severe drought increased slightly the mortality of the adults, but the population density dropped by a factor of three as the result of a reduction in the reproductive performance of the lizards. Bigger size meant enhanced fitness and fecundity but, since size is limited by asymptotic growth, size is poorly correlated with age, and life expectancy is short, natural selection should favour the younger breeders in this species.
Garcia-Munoz, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2013) -
Distribution modelling usually makes inferences correlating species presence and environmental variables but does not take biotic relations into account. Alternative approaches based on a mechanistic understanding of biological processes are now being applied. Regarding lacertid lizards, physiological traits such as preferred body temperature (Tp) are well known to correlate with several physiological optima. Much less is known about their water ecology although body temperature and evaporative water loss (Wl) may trade-off. Two saxicolous lacertids, Algyroides marchi and Podarcis hispanica ss are sympatric in the Subbetic Mountains (SE Spain) were they can be found in syntopy. Previous distribution modelling indicates the first species is associated with mountains, low temperatures; high precipitation and forest cover whereas the second one is more generalistic. Here, we perform two ecophysiological tests with both species: a Tp experiment in thermal gradient and a Wl experiment in sealed chambers. Although both species attained similar body temperatures, A. marchi lost more water and more uniformly in time than P. hispanica ss that displayed an apparent response to dehydration. These results suggest that water loss rather temperature is crucial to explain the distribution patterns of A. marchi in relation to P. hispanica ss, the former risking dehydration in dry areas no matter what temperature is. Ecophysiological traits represent a promising tool to build future mechanistic models for (lacertid) lizards. Additionally, the implications for their biogeography and conservation are discussed.
Garcia-Munoz, E. & Carretero, M.A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Sillero, N. & Jorge, F. & Rato, C. & Ribeiro, R. (2010) -
Garcia-Muñoz, E. & Ceacero, F. & Pedrajas, L. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Tail tip removal is a common method for obtaining tissue samples for genetics and other studies on lizards. This study evaluates the effect of tail tip autotomy on microhabitat selection in the lacertid Podarcis bocagei. Different-length tail fragments were experimentally removed from lizards of a small population. Forcing lizards to autotomise small tail tips (<1 cm) did not affect microhabitat selection. In contrast, a significant negative effect was observed in those lizards which underwent induced autotomy of the entire tail (> 5 cm). After autotomy these lizards were observed to favour more closed habitats, where predator avoidance is expected to be more efficient, although of potentially lower thermal quality.
Garcia-Munoz, E. & Cortadab, A. & Mesquitab, B. & Carretero, M.A. (2013) -
Increasing evidence is demonstrating that brain lateralization is not restricted to humans, several studies from fish to primates demonstrate that their occurrence may be widespread among vertebrates. It is now widely accepted that brain lateralization provides advantages for simultaneously performing different tasks without the risk of receiving contradictory orders from both brain sides. This explanation is meaningful from an individual and neurological point of view. Namely, each eye system could be specialized in developing a specific task such as recognition of novel object, selection of refuge, social behavior, foraging and predator avoidance, among others. Thus, individual lateralization is also advantageous in terms of energy saving that could be redirected to other tasks increasing the fitness at an individual level. From an evolutionary point of view it has even been suggested that the origin of lateralization might be as early as the appearing of visually controlled predation. However, being lateralized at hierarchical levels higher (population or species level) than individuals could have negative implications, especially if predators may predict prey behavior after multiple encounters. These conflicting pressures, namely between the advantages for individuals, and the disadvantages for populations could be concealed if higher-level lateralization would arise from the combination of lateralized behaviors of individuals which are mutually dependent. In the present study, we investigate the patterns of lateralization in different populations of lizards Podarcis using behavioural tests, with the aim of evaluating the incidence of lateralization at different hierarchical levels. Standardised experiments allowing lizards to equally select for either right or left refuges showed that the side of escape behavior is not universal in Podarcis at different hierarchical levels, some individuals and populations being lateralized with a consistent bias toward the refuge on the right. By contrast, some populations showed no refuge preference, with lack of lateralization mainly arising from the dominance of individuals with no side preference rather than from a mix of right- and left-biased individuals. When specimens from all Podarcis populations were considered together, a pattern for right-refuge preference arose. In conclusion, although refuge selection in Podarcis tends to be right biased at different hierarchical levels, some populations deviated from the rule showing no refuge preference. Further studies will be needed to infer the putative environmental pressures and the phylogenetic constraints subjacent to the lateralization of antipredator strategies in lacertids.
Garcia-Munoz, E. & Gomes, V. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Recent studies evidenced brain lateralization in ectotherms occurs and propose that the right eye/left hemisphere is involved in predatory behavior while food searching while the left eye/right hemisphere seems to control predator monitoring, making lateralized individuals able to carry out both tasks simultaneously. However, most of these studies are based on a single species (among reptiles Podarcis muralis), and these results are assumed as general. Here we studied the lateral component of the escape behavior in three diferent lineages of the Podarcis hispanica species complex. A total of 10 male and 10 female adults were tested 10 times using a “T” design, during two diferent days (ive races per day). Statistical analysis was made using Log Linear analysis. The results showed that, although, there is lateralization in escape behavior, it varied between the studied lineages. While the irst one lineage present ≈80% of right preference, the second one present ≈ 60% and the third one lineage tested showed ≈ 50% of preference to the right part. Interaction between lineage*side was statistically signiicant whereas, no diferences in the interactions sex*side, and sex*lineage*side were found. Result advise against generalizing results on lateralization tests and recommend broader comparative research on this topic. In addition, the possibility that the individual learning between subsequent races, of escape behavior, is discussed.
García-Muñoz, E. & Gomes, V. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
García-Muñoz, E. & Gomes, V. & Carretero, M.A. (2012) -
The traditional explanation of brain lateralization is that it avoids costly duplication of neural circuitry with the same function as well as decreasing the interference between different functions. This advantage could have important ecological implications in terms of predator–prey interactions. If species are lateralized in escape behavior at an individual level, any predator is facing individually asymmetric prey. On the other hand, if species are lateralized at a higher hierarchical level, such as at the population or species level, the predator can learn from experience arising from earlier encounters. In the present study, we investigate patterns of lateralization in 5 lizard populations of the Podarcis hispanica species complex, with the aim of analyzing the occurrence of lateralization at different hierarchical levels. Our results show that refuge selection during escape behavior is not universal in the P. hispanica species complex at different hierarchical levels, some individuals and populations are lateralized, with a consistent bias toward the refuge on the right. However, 2 populations showed no refuge preference, with lack of lateralization mainly arising due to the dominance of individuals with no preference rather than from a mix of right- and left-biased individuals. When considered at the P. hispanica species complex level, a pattern for right-refuge preference was found.
Garcia-Porta, J. & Irisarri, I. & Kirchner, M. & Rodríguez, A. & Kirchhof, S. & Brown, J.L. & MacLeod, A. & Turner, A.P. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Albaladejo, G. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Riva, I. de la & Fawzi, A. & Galán, P. & Göçmen, B. & Harris, D.J. & Jiménez-Robles, O. & Joger, U. & Jovanović Glavaš, O. & Karış, M. & Koziel, G. & Künzel, S. & Lyra, M. & Miles, D. & Nogales, M. & Oğuz, M.A. & Paf (2019) -
Climatic conditions changing over time and space shape the evolution of organisms at multiple levels, including temperate lizards in the family Lacertidae. Here we reconstruct a dated phylogenetic tree of 262 lacertid species based on a supermatrix relying on novel phylogenomic datasets and fossil calibrations. Diversification of lacertids was accompanied by an increasing disparity among occupied bioclimatic niches, especially in the last 10 Ma, during a period of progressive global cooling. Temperate species also underwent a genome- wide slowdown in molecular substitution rates compared to tropical and desert-adapted lacertids. Evaporative water loss and preferred temperature are correlated with bioclimatic parameters, indicating physiological adaptations to climate. Tropical, but also some popu- lations of cool-adapted species experience maximum temperatures close to their preferred temperatures. We hypothesize these species-specific physiological preferences may con- stitute a handicap to prevail under rapid global warming, and contribute to explaining local lizard extinctions in cool and humid climates.
García-Porta, J. et al (2001) -
Description of the introduced population of Podarcis pityusensis in San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, compared to earlier description as Podarcis sicula (also introduced on the Cantabric coast) and autochthonous Podarcis hispanica and Podarcis muralis.
Garcia-Ramirez, A. & Delgado-Garcia, J.D. & Foronda-Rodriguez, P. & Abreu-Acosta, N. (2005) -
We studied relationships among blood haemogregarines (Apicomplexa), ectoparasitic mites (Ophyonissus; Acari: Trombiculidae) and an endemic lizard host (Gallotia atlantica, Lacertidae) on an oceanic islet (Alegranza, Canary Islands). We asked whether blood infection, mite load and body condition were related in lizard subpopulations at two contrasting habitats. Both haemogregarine prevalence (100%) and intensity of parasitism (>1) were strikingly higher than values found for congeneric lizards from the other Canary Islands. There were few differences between habitats in infection levels, suggesting low influence of habitat on parasite performance. Both mite prevalence and intensity were very high, though only prevalence differed between habitats (higher in the richest and climatically more sheltered site). Body condition in lizards did not differ significantly between habitats. We found no association among blood parasite load, mite infection and lizard body condition. Results are discussed in the context of parasite‐host relationships on small islands as compared to larger areas such as continents.
Garcia-Roa, R. (2017) -
Múltiples trabajos sobre comunicación química han revelado que el sistema químiosensorial influye numerosos procesos subyacentes a la ecología y evolución de los reptiles. Sin embargo, sabemos muy poco sobre cómo la señalización química se ve influida por factores ecológicos y evolutivos. Sobre esta base, hemos elegido los lagartos como modelo de estudio para investigar la comunicación química, utilizando diferentes enfoques (químico, comportamental o evolutivo). Así, hemos descrito una metodología analítica alternativa para el estudio de las secreciones químicas de lagartos basada en el uso de cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas (GC-MS). Además, hemos estudiado un caso de dimorfismo sexual en la señalización química del lagarto Liolaemus wiegmanni. También investigamos si restricciones en la dieta pueden obstaculizar la expresión de una señal potencialmente honesta (vitamina E) en Iberolacerta cyreni. Además, evaluamos divergencias en la señalización química entre especies relacionadas (Podarcis bocagei y Podarcis carbonelli) y entre poblaciones de la misma especie (Gallotia galloti), discutiendo si el ambiente podría ser el causante de tales diferencias. Finalmente, estudiamos la diversificación de las glándulas foliculares epidérmicas y algunos de los compuestos identificados en las secreciones glandulares a lo largo de Squamata y lacértidos, respectivamente. Así, hemos encontrado que la metodología analítica propuesta es capaz de detectar efectos fisiológicos y ambientales (temperatura) en la composición de las señales química de los lagartos. Por otro lado, las hembras de L. wiegmanni pueden transmitir información a través de las glándulas foliculares y además, esta información es significativamente distinta a la de los machos. Revelamos también que la suplementación en la dieta de vitamina E a los machos de I. cyreni alteró la señalización química y la respuesta inmune de los machos, así como la respuesta comportamental de las hembras. Además, encontramos considerables diferencias en las señales químicas de P. bocagei y P. carbonelli, lo que podría estar asociado a diferencias ambientales entre ambas especies. También, observamos divergencias en el perfil químico de las secreciones femorales de tres poblaciones de G. gallotia (G. g. eisentrauti, G. g. galloti and G. g. palmae), las cuales podrían estar provocadas por diferencias en las condiciones de temperatura y precipitación donde habita cada población. Además, observamos posibles efectos estacionales en los perfiles químicos de G. g. eisentrauti y G. g. galloti. Nuestros análisis sobre la evolución de los ocho compuestos revelaron una diversificación heterogénea de los mismos en cuanto a modo y tiempo. Respecto a las glándulas foliculares epidérmicas en Squamata, nuestros resultados sugieren que el número de estas sigue un modelo de evolución estabilizante, en el que habría un efecto moderado de la señal filogenética. Obtuvimos que la ausencia de estas glándulas sería el estado ancestral en Squamata con un considerable efecto de la filogenia en la localización anatómica de las mismas. El sexo, las condiciones climáticas, la dieta y las relaciones filogenéticas se revelan como factores influyentes en la composición final de las señales químicas de los lagartos y por tanto, el estudio desde múltiples perspectivas es la única vía para conseguir finalmente un profundo conocimiento del papel que juega el sistema quimiosensorial en la ecología y evolución de los lagartos.
Garcia-Roa, R. & Cabido, C. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2016) -
Chemical signals play an important role in intraspecific communication and social organization of many animals, but they also may be useful in interspecific recognition. In lizards, chemical signals are often contained in femoral gland secretions, of which composition may vary between species and populations. This may be especially important in recognition and reproductive isolation between closely related species. We analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCeMS) the lipophilic fraction of femoral gland secretions of two closely related wall lizard species, Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis carbonelli to test for possible interspecific differences in chemical composition. We found 56 lipophilic compounds in femoral gland secretions of male P. bocagei and 60 in P. carbonelli. The main compounds were steroids and waxy esters, but we also found carboxylic acids and their esters, alcohols, amydes, aldehydes, squalene, ketones and furanones. There were significant differences between species with respect to the number and relative proportions of compounds. Differences in chemical composition might be a consequence of phylogenetic differences per se, but they could also be explained by ecological adaptation to different microclimatic conditions. These differences in chemical profiles may explain the known chemosensory interspecific recognition between these two lizards, contributing to their reproductive isolation.
Garcia-Roa, R. & Carazo, P. (2017) -
García-Roa, R. & Iglesias-Carrasco, M. & Garin-Barrio, I. & Cabido, C. (2015) -
Garcia-Roa, R. & Iglesias, M. & Gosa, A. & Cabido, C. (2015) -
Garcia-Roa, R. & Megia-Palma, R. & Ortega, J. & Jara, M. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2017) -
Communicative traits are strikingly diverse and may vary among populations of the same species. Within a population, these traits may also display seasonal variation. Chemical signals play a key role in the communication of many taxa. However, we still know far too little about chemical communication in some vertebrate groups. In lizards, only a fewstudies have examined interpopulational variation in the composition of chemical cues and signals and only one study has explored the seasonal effects. Here we sampled three subspecies of the Tenerife lizards (Gallotia galloti) and analyze the lipophilic fraction of their femoral gland secretions to characterize the potential interpopulational variation in the chemical signals. In addition, we assessed whether composition of these secretions differed between the reproductive and the nonreproductive season. We analyzed variations in both the overall chemical profile and the abundance of the two main compounds (cholesterol and vitamin E). Our results show interpopulational and seasonal differences in G. gallotia chemical profiles. These findings are in accordance with the high interpopulational variability of compounds observed in lizard chemical signals and show that their composition is not only shaped by selective factors linked to reproductive season.
Garcia-Roa, R. & Ortega, J. & López, P. & Civantos, E. & Martin, J. (2014) -
Garcia-Roa, R. & Ortega, J. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2015) -
Garcia-Roa, R. & Sáiz, J. & Gómara, B. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2017) -
Identifying the factors that underlie signal divergences remains challenging in studies of animal communication. Regarding the chemical signalling, different compounds can be found in some species but be absent in others. We hypothesized that if the costs that are associated with the expression of some compounds are too high, their presence in the signal may be restricted. However, these compounds may be expressed and be functional when those costs are relaxed. Vitamin E (α-tocopherol), a dietary compound with metabolic relevancy, acts as an honest chemical sexual signal in many lizards but no in others such as the Carpetan Rock lizard (Iberolacerta cyreni). We investigated whether dietary supplementation favours the expression of this vitamin in scents of I. cyreni. We show that dietary constraints can preclude the expression of vitamin E in chemical secretions of wild males because was expressed when it was experimentally provided in the diet. Vitamin E supplementation also heightened the immune response of males and increased the interest of their scent for females, highlighting the vitamin E as a chemical sexual signal in this species. We suggest that diet could decisively act as a driver of intra- and interspecific divergences in the chemical signalling of lizards.
Garcia-Roa, R. & Sáiz, J. & Gómara, B. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2018) -
Knowledge about chemical communication in some vertebrates is still relatively limited. Squamates are a glaring example of this, even when recent evidences indicate that scents are involved in social and sexual interactions. In lizards, where our understanding of chemical communication has considerably progressed in the last few years, many questions about chemical interactions remain unanswered. A potential reason for this is the inherent complexity and technical limitations that some methodologies embody when analyzing the compounds used to convey information. We provide here a straightforward procedure to analyze lizard chemical secretions based on gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry that uses an internal standard for the semiquantification of compounds. We compare the results of this method with those obtained by the traditional procedure of calculating relative proportions of compounds. For such purpose, we designed two experiments to investigate if these procedures allowed revealing changes in chemical secretions 1) when lizards received previously a vitamin dietary supplementation or 2) when the chemical secretions were exposed to high temperatures. Our results show that the procedure based on relative proportions is useful to describe the overall chemical profile, or changes in it, at population or species levels. On the other hand, the use of the procedure based on semiquantitative determination can be applied when the target of study is the variation in one or more particular compounds of the sample, as it has proved more accurate detecting quantitative variations in the secretions. This method would reveal new aspects produced by, for example, the effects of different physiological and climatic factors that the traditional method does not show.
Garcia-Roja, R. & Llusia, D. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2017) -
Lautäußerungen spielen eine Schlüsselrolle in einer Vielzahl von Interaktionen zwischen artgleichen und verschiedenen Individuen. Doch im Vergleich mit anderen Sinnesleistungen wird der Akustik bei Reptilien nur wenig Aufmerksamkeit geschenkt. Innerhalb der Lacertidae wird Fehlen und Vorhandensein von Lautäußerungen als euin Unterscheidungsmerkmal zwischen den Unterfamilien Gallotinae und Lacertinae angesehen, wobei letztere, höchst diverse Unterfamilie als mehrheitlich nichg stimmbegabt betrachtet wird. Mit Hilfe von Bild- und Tonaufzeichnungen berichten die Autoren erstmals über die Lautäußerungen bei Iberolacerta cyreni (MÜLLER & HELLMICH, 1937), einer europäischen Felsiedechsenart. Tonaufzeichnungen eines Exemplars im Freiland geben kurze nasale quietschende Laute wieder, die hinichtlich des Mechanismus der Schallproduktion und der akustischen Merkmale Ähnlichkeit mit den Lauten nahe verwandter Lacertidenarten zeigen. Die funktionale Bedeutung derartiger Lautgäuerungen ist unklar, doch weisen die akustischen Merkmale und der verhaltenskontect auf die Möglichkeit eines bei Gefahr abgegebenen Schreckrufs hin. Die vorliegenden Beobachtungen lassen permute, das sich die Fähigkeit zur Lautproduktion bei verschiedenen systematischen Gruppen der Halsbandeidechsen entwickelt hat und, auch wenn selten eingesetzt, weiter berbreitet ist als erwartet.
Garcia-Verdugo, J.M. & Farinas, I. & Molowny, A. & Lopez-Garcia, C. (1986) -
Cells considered to be migratory in the cerebral cortex of adult lizards are ultrastructurally of two types. Nuclei in the first type have highly dispersed chromatin, creating a spongy appearance, whereas in the second type the chromatin is irregularly clumped. Both types of cells are closely associated with processes of radial ependymal glia cells, which perhaps orient their migratory pathways. Cells with spongy chromatin show an increase in cytoplasmic organelles and progressive chromatin condensation as they travel from the ependymal layer to the granular layer. Possibly these cells account for the neuronal increase that takes place in the granular layer during postnatal life. Cells with chromatin clumps are very scarce; ultrastructurally they resemble immature reptilian astroglia cells.
García, J.J. (2009) -
Garcia, José Julián Gosá, Alberto & Alcalde, Juan Tomás (1998) -
García, M. & Martín, S. (2001) -
García, P. & Mateos, I. (2009) -
Gardet, G. (1913) -
Gardner, A.S. (2009) -
Th e terrestrial reptile fauna of Oman and the United Arab Emirates is rich, with at least 79 species of lizards and snakes and a single species of worm lizard. However, to date there have been no accurate maps published of their distribution ranges, and distribution data relies on scattered museum specimen localities and published accounts. Considerable numbers of locality data points do exist, collected by visting and resident herpetologists, and more recently, from ecologists working on surveys for environmental impact assessments and biodiversity action plans. Th ese data are invaluable, as amongst other uses, they can assist conservation planning and management, and will eventually document changes in distributions over time. Th is is especially true where there has been extensive habitat loss and degradation due to urbanisation and development activities. Data have been collected from museum records, published accounts and unpublished data from a variety of sources, including many records made by the author over the last 20 years, with the aim of producing an atlas of species distributions. Th e number of records is now approaching 5.000, giving suffi cient coverage to produce maps that are useful for a variety of applications. Examples are discussed, including endangered and endemic species, snakes of medical importance and species of potential interest in ecological and evolutionary studies.
Gardner, A.S. (2013) -
Gardner, D. (2005) -
The terrestrial reptiles oft he UAE the lizards, snakes and a single species of amphisbaenian or worm lizard. There are no extant native crocodiles, tortoises or freshwater terrapins. Lizards, snakes and amphisbaenians are all classified under the reptilian order Squamata, in the suborders Sauria, Serpentes and Amphisbaenia respectively. Characterised by their dry, scaly skin, which protects them from drying out, and by their reliance on external heat sources to maintain their body temperatures, reptiles are well-suited to hot and arid areas. In Arabia, reptiles are a major component of the desert and mountain ecosystems and a total of at least 54 species of terrestrial reptile are found in the UAE. So far, a comprehensive handbook covering all of the UAE reptiles in detail is not available. The Handbook to Middle East Amphibians and Reptiles (Leviton et al. 1992) does not cover the species of the mountains or Northern Emirates and gives little information on natural history. Useful general sources of information are Wild about Reptiles (Jongbloed 2000) and Terrestrial Reptiles of Abu Dhabi (Baha El Din 1986).
Gardner, R.S. (2021) -
At a time of high biodiversity loss and in the light of global climate change, some species are at particular risk. Geographically restricted specialists may undergo biotic homogenisation. Less charismatic and smaller taxa are often under-studied, with cryptic species raising additional monitoring challenges. The close links between reptile biological cycles and temperature and moisture leave many populations facing an uncertain future. Following dramatic population declines of the sand lizard Lacerta agilis in the UK due to habitat loss, fifty years of captive breeding and reintroduction efforts have focused on returning populations to sites in their former range. Ongoing presence of the species shows reintroduction efforts are broadly successful, but the cryptic nature of the sand lizard has raised post-release monitoring difficulties. This research addressed the challenges associated with this species, offering a more quantitative assessment of reintroduction practice to determine efforts are best-placed and to inform protocols going forward. Microhabitat preference of the sand lizard was studied in the light of monitoring difficulties. Detectability of sand lizards varied, with less dominant adults spatiotemporally restricted to less optimal environmental conditions. Juveniles showed aggregative behaviour as a thermoregulation mechanism, the benefits of which may influence post-release movement. Survey methodologies ere assessed at the receptor site, Eelmoor Marsh SSSI in Hampshire, UK. Recommendations were made for the sand lizard as well as the wider reptile community, including the more generalist common lizard Zootoca vivpara and slow worm Anguis fragilis, and predators adder Vipera berus and grass snake Natrix helvetica. Refugium materials of felt and slate proved favourable to sand lizards and common lizards, both species highlighted as being poor users of traditional tin refugia. eintroduction protocols currently focus on hatchlings. Hatchlings, yearlings, and a small number of two-year-olds were released in this study. Releases were undertaken in September 2017 and September 2018, of 80 and 86 lizards respectively, and post-release monitoring occurred for a year following each. Overwinter survival favoured yearlings over hatchlings. Yearlings also showed predictable post-release movement and survival; hatchlings did not. Yearlings displaying higher locomotor performance and those that showed a less exploratory and less active behavioural response to the novel release site, were more likely to survive overwinter. The furthest travelled yearlings pre-winter showed more exploratory and active traits. Many yearling lizards showed release site fidelity, remaining in or returning repeatedly to the area, highlighting the importance of maintaining this as optimal, structurally diverse habitat. Released yearlings were observed having successfully bred within a year, at two years of age; released hatchlings would likely not breed until their third year. Observations of sand lizards in less favourable environmental conditions and beyond the normal active season indicated release may be favourable earlier in the year; this would benefit from further study. Continued monitoring is recommended to observe longer-term trends. This research highlighted the potential and benefits of developing a rigorous post-release monitoring approach for cryptic species. It showed the importance of building on current understanding of species ecology and biology at demographic and individual levels to aid conservation initiatives.
Gardner, R.S. (2022) -
Garff, B. le (1984) -
Garin-Barrio, I. & Blanco, Y. & Cabido, C. & Carretero, M.A. & Fernández-Arrieta, A. & Izagirre-Egana, A. & López-Aizpuru, J. & Mandiola, E. & Oskyrko, O. & Silva-Rocha, I. (2020) -
Garin-Barrio, I. & Cabido, C. & Garcia-Arzurmendi, X. & Uotila, E. & Gosa, A. (2010) -
Garin-Barrio, I. & Sanz-Azkue, I. & Gosá, A. & Bandrés, A. (2011) -
The Ibiza wall lizard, Podarcis pityusensis (Boscá, 1883), is an introduced species in the Rock of Gaztelugatxe (Bizkaia, Northern Spain), which in less than 20 years has completely displacing the native species, the common wall lizard, P. muralis (Laurenti, 1768). Since 2008, we are conducting campaigns to control the introduced Ibiza wall lizard population. In 2008 we captured an adult male who had multiple kyphosis in the spine column, diagnosed by high resolution x-ray. The case presented in this note would be the first known for an European lizard of genus Podarcis.
Garrido Escudero, M. (2013) -
The aim of this study is to assess the health status of different populations of P. lilfordi, an endemic lizard of the Balearic Islands. The health status and potential environmental stress to which these populations are subject estimaatendiendo four independent indicators, putting both to test its reliability and searching for the possible relationship between them. These four indicators are: the so-called state of condition of individuals, the parasite load, immune response and the degree of fluctuating asymmetry observed in bilateral characters. Also, relationships are established with adaptive responses in terms of features of behavioral ecology, including: strategies to secure food, defense capabilities and tactics of escape from predators.
Garrido, M. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2012) -
Parasites are important in understanding population dynamics and ecology of hosts. In several Mediterranean islands, little is known about lizards’ blood parasites. We studied the relations between haemoparasites and an endemic lizard host, Podarcis lilfordi (Günther, 1874) on Aire Island (Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain). The infection intensity was about 1% of the red blood cells and 95% of the individuals were infected. These values are higher than in continental populations of the genus Podarcis. The reduced genetic variability and/or the high density in islands are proposed to explain such differences. More adults than juveniles were infected, probably because they were more often exposed to parasites during their lifetime. In adult lizards, prevalence was higher in males, may be as a consequence of their higher activity levels and more frequent physical contacts during male–male interactions. We found that infected individuals were larger than uninfected ones. A higher prevalence in adults is responsible of these differences. The intensity of infection was similar between age and sex classes. Prevalence remains stable between seasons, while parasite load increases in summer, as the availability of resources and body condition decreases. We found a relation between prevalence, intensity and body condition, with a higher prevalence and parasite load in individuals with lower condition.
Garrido, M. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2013) -
Parasites are able to negatively affect the locomotor performance of their hosts, and consequently, their biological fitness. In this study, we examine the relationship between parasitism and burst speed in an insular population of Lilford’s Wall Lizard (Podarcis lilfordi (Günther, 1874)). Podarcis lilfordi is normally infected with haemogregarine blood parasites and mites in our study location, Aire Island (Balearic Islands, Spain). Unlike the results from other studies on lizards, we found a significant negative correlation between intensity of infection by haemogregarines and burst speed. Body condition is also significantly related to burst speed. Thus, lizards with a lower blood parasite load and better body condition show a faster sprint speed. Intensity of infection by haemoparasites shows a lack of correlation with both body condition and mite load. Our results are compared with those from other lizard species living in different habitats. We discuss the influence of insular environmental conditions on locomotor performances, such as low predation pressure, lack of competitors, and high lizard densities
The spatial distribution of a population of lizards is influenced by the distribution of resources and the individuals’ skills to gain access to them. On several Mediterranean islands with food scarcity and unpredictable resource availability, some resources can be extremely important during some periods of the year, as, e.g., the dead horse arum, Dracunculus muscivorus, on Aire Island, Spain. In this study, we analysed parasite infestation in an endemic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, in relation to the distribution of D. muscivorus during spring. We found a higher prevalence of parasitism in males from a central area where the plant was significantly more abundant. Also, in this area, males were more abundant and larger than in two areas with lower plant densities. Moreover, overall differences appeared in the intensity of infection, which was higher in individuals from the central area, and we found a relationship between body size and parasite load, with more infected cells in larger individuals. Spatial distribution of individuals due to differential availabilities of D. muscivorus is proposed as an explanation for the observed differences.
Garrido, M. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2014) -
In animals, developmental stability is frequently assessed by the level of fluctuating asymmetry. Several environmental and genetic stress factors can increase the developmental instability in a population. Anyhow, the use of fluctuating asymmetry as a measurement of developmental instability and its relationship to other measurements of genetic and environmental stress, remain controversial. We studied this subject in the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, and examined four populations inhabiting different coastal islets of Minorca (Balearic Islands, Spain). These populations show clear ecological and genetic differences that allowed us to study factors potentially determining the level of fluctuating asymmetry. We examined the following predictions: (1) fluctuating asymmetry will increase on smaller islands; (2) fluctuating asymmetry will increase on islands with a higher lizard density; (3) fluctuating asymmetry will increase on islands with more heavily parasitized lizards; and (4) populations with higher inbreeding levels would be more susceptible to environmental stress. Our results would partially support the fourth prediction of a higher fluctuating asymmetry in populations with lower genetic variability and, consequently, a higher inbreeding level. Probably, other environmental factors modulate this relationship.
Garrido, M. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2015) -
Many wild populations of lizards in the Mediterranean Basin inhabit small islands frequently visited by humans. Reptiles respond to humans as potential predators by escaping to refuges or by increasing antipredator behaviours which lead to a loss of body condition and may have important consequences for fitness. We assessed effects of human pressure on parasitism and body condition of the endangered insular lizard Podarcis lilfordi in Aire Island (Balearic Islands, Spain). Two areas differing in the number of visitors were compared at different seasons: spring, with almost no human pressure, and summer, when the major bulk of visitors arrive. Compared across seasons, the lizards from areas frequented by humans suffered a greater loss of body condition and showed a less parasitism reduction compared to individuals from the undisturbed area. Therefore, human disturbance seems to have deleterious effects on body condition and other fitness-related drivers, as parasitism. Results evidence important consequences of tourism for short- and long-term fitness of individuals and should be considered when designing conservation plans or management strategies.
Garrido, M. & Pérez‐Mellado, V. & Cooper, W.E. (2015) -
Economic escape models predict escape decisions of prey which are approached by predators. Flight initiation distance (FID, predator–prey distance when prey begins to flee) and distance fled (DF) are major variables used to characterize escape responses. In optimal escape theory, FID increases as cost of not fleeing also increases. Moreover, FID decreases as cost of fleeing increases, due to lost opportunities to perform activities that may increase fitness. Finally, FID further increases as the prey`s fitness increases. Some factors, including parasitism, may affect more than one of these predictors of FID. Initially, parasitized prey may have lower fitness as well as impaired locomotor ability, which would avoid predation and/or reduce their foraging ability, further decreasing the opportunity of fleeing. For example, if parasites decrease body condition, prey fitness is reduced and escape ability may be impaired. Hence, the overall influence of parasitism on FID is difficult to predict. We examined relationships between escape decisions and different traits: parasite load, body size and body condition in the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi. Lizards that showed higher haemogregarines load had longer FID and shorter DF. Although results did not confirm our initial predictions made on the basis of optimal escape theory, our findings suggest that parasites can alter several aspects of escape behaviour in a complex way.
Garve, E. & Podloucky, R. (2013) -
The authors report on the observation on an unusual ventral side sunbasking behaviour of a juvenile Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis meridionalis) in Bulgaria and ducument this with photos. In the relevant lacertid literature no evidence was found for this behaviour. Also lacertid professionals haven’t observed such esposure to the sun or haven’t further registered.
Garvi Barceló, M. (2019) -
In the family Lacertidae (Reptilia) composed by more of 280 species is found the genus Podarcis, with 24 - 30 species distributed along Eurasia and Africa. It is a monophyletic group with an origin does roughly 18 -20 Ma, composed of species with very variable phenotype, big intraspecific variability and low interspecific variability. These traits cause that the relations are not established definitively and that require the analyses of DNA to establish more solid phylogenetic relationships. At this work studied the usefulness of DNA barcoding of 10 of these species with Citocrom Oxidase I (COI), a gene found in mtDNA, to study genetic variability and phylogeny. To this end, DNA extraction of tail of the specimens was carried out, two sets of primers were necessary to perform the amplification as this group exhibited a high variability in the binding region of primers. Finally, the samples were purified and sequenced to be able to perform genetic variability and phylogenetic analysis, time of divergence and delimitation of the species. It has been observed that there is a greater diversity in P. tiliguerta, but the sequences obtained with the two games of primers were of low quality what could be caused by nuclear copies of the genes and to avoid errors this species were eliminated from the phylogenetic analysis. On the other hand, P. hispanica also has a high diversity, which is not surprising given that it covers 3 different species and that two of these `P. h. “Galera” and P. h. virescens stand out because present the highest distance value. Finally, two phylogenetic models were studied: the model of maximum likelihood and the Bayesian coalescence model. Both with similar results, although slightly more solid in the Bayesian model, where the different species separate correctly. Also found a clear relationship between the moments of speciation and the great tectonic movements that have occurred in the Mediterranean.
Garzon, J. (1974) -
Gasc, J.P. (1971) -
Gassert, F. (1999) -
Gassert, F. (2005) -
Gassert, F. & Hochkirch, A. (2011) -
The common wall lizard is warmth – loving species which is mainly spread in the northern Mediterranean area. Its northern area of circulation spreads over the north of France, Luxembourg, along the Maas in Belgium, the south of the Netherlands, scattered appearances in Germany in the Eifel area and the Rhine area as far as Bonn. North of the Alps, the common wall lizard is a typical species of wine-growing regions. In Luxembourg, wall lizards are common along river valleys, whereas the species is largely absent in central and northern parts of Luxembourg. Within its native range the species shows a clear phylogeographic structure. To reconstruct the invasion history and the genetic diversity of the populations, 311 lizards (two to thirty individuals per population) were captured by hand or by noose within 31 populations of P. muralis in Luxembourg (n = 162), Germany (n = 17), France (n = 93), Italy (n = 12), Croatia (n = 9) and Belgium (n = 18). We sequenced for all populations a part of the mtDNA (cytochrome b) and genotyped all individuals at 10 microsatellite loci. We tested our data for the occurrence ofnull alleles with Micro-Checker 2.2.3 and for linkage disequilibrium with Fstat 2.9.3. STRUCTURE v 2.3.1 was used to analyse the genetic structures among subpopulations. The admixture model was used. We chose the correlated allele frequency model. AFST based AMOVA with 9999 iterations was performed in GenAlEx 6.41 with the three STRUCTURE based genetic clusters as populations. In our case 15 clusters have been generated over all 31 populations, among 7 clusters in Luxembourg. By means of the statistical methods, a separation of the North Luxembourg and the South Luxembourg populations is shown. The immigration routes are clearly demonstrated for the northern populations by means of the mtDNA data.
Gassert, F. & Kautenburger, R. & Müller, P. (2002) -
Gassert, F. & Schulte, U. & Husemann, M. & Hochkirch, A. & Habel, J.C. (2015) -
Kaltphasen im Pleistozän überdauerten wärme-liebende Arten in südlichen Refugien und breiteten sich dann in Phasen der Erwärmung nach Norden aus. Dadurch kam es zur Differenzierung von genetischen Linien und zum Verlust von genetischer Diversität. Wir nutzten verschiedene genetische Marker, um die Auswirkungen der Arealdynamik bei der Mauereidechse, Podarcis muralis, von ihren südlichen Refugien bis zum nördlichen Arealrand zu untersuchen. Wir genotypisierten 282 Individuen ab zehn polymorphen Mirosatelliten und sequenzierten das mitochondriale Gen Cytechrom b (Cyt b), um die genetische Struktur, Divergenz-Zeiten und die frühere Verbreitung der Art zu untersuchen.Wir entdeckten zwei genetische Linien: Eine West-Französische Linie (Western France Clade) von den Pyrenäen bis zur Bretagne und eine Ost-Französische Linie (Eastern France Clade) vom südlichen Frankreich bis nach Deutschland, Belgien und Luxemburg. Der Differenzierungszeitpunkt wurde mit 1.23 Millionen Jahre vor heute ermittelt. Die Ost-Französische Linie ist in zwei Sub-Linien differenziert, welche vor ca. 380.000 Jahren vor heute differenzierten. Mittels Mikrosatelliten-Analyse wurde eine signifikante Abnahme genetischer Diversität von Süd nach Nord sowie deutliches „Allel-Surfing“ über fast alle Loci und eine Erhöhung der genetischen Differenzierung Richtung nördlicher Arealgrenzen nachgewiesen. Die deutliche genetische Differenzierung zeigt Effekte von langzeitiger Isolation in mehreren Refugien. Die postglaziale Ausbreitung nach Norden erfolgte von zwei verschiedenen Refugien aus, sehr wahrscheinlich entlang der großen Flusssystema (Rhône, Rhein und Mosel) sowie entlang der Atlantikküste, einhergehend mit der Reduzierung genetischer Diversität und der Erhöhung genetischer Differenzierung an ihrem nördlichen Arealrand.
Gassert, F. & Schulte, U. & Husemann, M. & Ulrich, W. & Rödder, D. & Hochkirch, A. & Engel, E. & Meyer, J. & Habel, J.C. (2013) -
Aim Thermophilic species persisted in southern refugia during the cold phases of the Pleistocene, and expanded northwards during warming. These processes caused genetic imprints, such as a differentiation of genetic lineages and a loss of genetic diversity in the wake of (re)colonization. We used molecular markers and species distribution models (SDMs) to study the impact of range dynamics on the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, from southern refugia to the northern range margin. Location Parts of the Western Palaearctic. Methods We genotyped 10 polymorphic microsatellites in 282 individuals of P. muralis and sequenced the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome b gene to study the genetic structure, divergence times and ancestral distributions. Furthermore, we generated SDMs for climate scenarios for 6 and 21 ka derived from two different global circulation models. Results We detected two major mtDNA lineages – a western France clade (Pyrenees to Brittany), and an eastern France clade (southern France to Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg). This split was dated to c. 1.23Ma. The latter clade was divided into two subclades, which diverged c. 0.38 Ma. Genetic diversity of microsatellites within each clade was nested and showed a significant loss of genetic diversity from south to north, a strong pattern of allele surfing across nearly all loci, and an increase in genetic differentiation towards the northern range margin. Results from SDMs suggest that southward range retraction during the late glacial period split the distribution into geographically distinct refugia. Main conclusions The strong genetic differentiation mirrors the effects of long-term isolation of P. muralis in multiple refugia. Post-glacial recolonization of Northern Europe has taken place from two distinct refugia, most probably along river systems (Rhône, Rhine, Moselle) and along the Atlantic coastline, with subsequent nested elimination of genetic diversity and increasing genetic differentiation at the northern range margin.
Gasso, V. & Vermolenko, S. & Hahut, A. & Pakhomov, O. (2018) -
Gatta, M. & Kotsakis, T. & Pandolfi, L. & Petronio, C. & Salari, L. & Achino, K.F. & Silvestri, L. & Rolfo, M.F. (2019) -
Palaeoenvironmental information on Marine Isotope Stage 3 (MIS 3) coastal Latium is sparse, mainly based on studies of isolated faunal assemblages or long pollen records from lake sediments, often of insufficient resolution to aid in palaeoenvironmental reconstruction. This study describes in detail the Late Pleistocene faunal assemblage from layers SU11 and SU12 of Cava Muracci (Cisterna di Latina, central Italy), the first of which is a partially-preserved hyena den. The first multi-disciplinary palaeoenvironmental reconstruction of coastal Latium between 34–44 ka BP, a critical time span for the presence of the latest Neanderthals and the arrival of Anatomically Modern Humans (AMH), is provided combining palaeoecological inferences from a previous pollen study of hyena coprolites with the palaeontological study described here. The results indicate a temperate climate and a landscape characterised by the coexistence of at least three habitats within a short distance between the coastline and the inland mountains, suitable for a wide variety of species.
Gaupp, E. (1900) -
Gautam, B. & Bhattarai, S. & Kandel, R.C. (2022) -
We report the first record of Sikkim grass lizard, Takydromus sikkimensis Günther, 1888 in Nepal based on morphological characters such as the presence of four pairs of femoral pores, 12 rows of ventral scales, tail more than 3.6 times longer than snout-vent length. Our record of T. sikkimensis at Miklajung, Morang district represents the western-most observation of the species, ca. 94 km west of its type locality, Sikkim, India and is the first in Nepal for this species, genus, and family. This record is from Chure/Siwalik hill range which lies outside of Nepal’s protected area network. This species is listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources and warrants detailed inventory and immediate conservation interventions.
Gauthier, J. (2007) -
Gauthier, J. (2008) -
Gauthier, J. (2011) -
Gauthier, R. (1966) -
Gauthier, R. (2007) -
Gavaud, J. (1983) -
Hibernation in Lacerta vivipara from Massif Central (1,000–1,200 m) lasts 6–7 months and is immediately followed by vitellogenesis, gestation, and parturition within a short period of time (May–August). Suppression of hibernation by maintaining females in active life (food and high temperatures) inhibits the resumption of ovarian growth in spring: i.e., the reproductive system remains indefinitely refractory to high temperatures. In order for vitellogenesis to be completed, females need to hibernate below S–10°C with sufficient duration (“amount of cold” thresholds). The prolongation of the exposure of females to low temperature beyond the minimal stay gradually improves their ability to complete vitellogenesis: The number of females responding increases, and the heat requirement for the onset of ovarian growth decreases.
Gavaud, J. (1985) -
Etude du déroulement du cycle sexuel normal, puis du cycle perturbé par la suppression de l`hibernation. Isolement, identification de la vitellogénine de L. vivipara et préparation d`un immunsérum spécifique. Etude in vivo de l`effet de différentes hormones stéroïdes sur l`induction de la synthèse de vittelogénine. Analyse de l`effet des facteurs de l`environnement. Evolution de la sensibilité du tissu ovarien à la FSH ovine in vivo chez des femelles qui n`hibernent pas et in vitro pendant l`hibernation et la vitellogenèse
Gavaud, J. (1986) -
An analysis of the development of the vitellogenic process following artificial hibernation in the lizard Lacerta vivipara was undertaken. For that purpose, organ weights (ovaries, oviducts, liver, fat bodies) and plasma concentrations of total proteins, calcium, and estrogens were monitored. The induction of the vitellogenic growth of 2-5 oocytes per ovary was characterized by a rapid increase in calcemia (from 2.4-2.6 mM to 4-10 mM), and in oviduct and liver weights. During the active and continuous phase of vitellus incorporation (congruent to 3 weeks, follicle diameter 1.6-2.0 mm to greater than 5 mm) the developments of ovaries and oviducts were positively correlated, liver weight and calcemia remained elevated (respectively, 1.2-2.2 times and 2.5-3.5 times the previtellogenic values). Ovulation was preceded by a significant rise in calcemia and followed by a decrease in liver weight, but no modification of oviduct mass. Plasma concentration in total proteins (50-60 mg/ml) was not modified during the entire process. Plasma estrogens were difficult to measure in this small species. Levels of estradiol-17 beta were very often below the assay sensitivity (less than 0.3-0.6 ng/ml), never above 2 ng/ml, and very variable among individuals. No correlation with vitellogenin production could be established. Therefore, the abilities of different ovarian steroids to induce vitellogenin synthesis were tested in vivo. To reduce the rise of plasma estradiol titer (observed during a 4-week experiment), the steroids were implanted in ovariectomized lizards for a short time (5 days). The vitellogenic response was assessed by measuring the distribution of the 32P radioactivity between the acidoprecipitable plasma fraction and the plasma vitellogenin recognized by the lizard antivitellogenin serum. Plasma titers of estradiol-17 beta were monitored. The estrone potencies could not be determined as this treatment involved an important rise in estradiol level. Progesterone, delta 4, testosterone, and 5 alpha-androstanediol were unable to stimulate vitellogenin synthesis. Estradiol-17 beta was the only effective steroid. It was further demonstrated that the estradiol-induced hypercalcemia, hyperproteinemia, and liver growth in ovariectomized lizards were dependent upon the total amount of estrogen injected.
Gavaud, J. (1991) -
A constant warm thermoperiod maintains ovarian quiescence in the lizard Lacerta vivipara, whereas a 4-month artificial hibernation rapidly induces synchronized vitellogenesis after transfer to warmth. The present study examined the possibility of a thermoperiodic regulation of the ovarian cycle and the formal properties of an internal temporal program. These questions were addressed using 24-hr thermoperiodic conditions that combined a long or a short thermophase (6 or 2 hr of basking) with a warm (19-21°C), a cool (5-15°C), or a cold (3-7°C) cryophase. Lizards were exposed to the natural photocycle or to LD 12:12. Occurrence and timing of vitellogenesis completion were monitored using immunodetection of plasma vitellogenin and laparotomies. Cold remained stimulatory when given intermittently with a 24-hr periodicity. However, under long-thermophase conditions, lizards responded poorly to cool cyrophases but fully to cold ones (72.7-100% vitellogenesis). Thus a certain amount of cold must be provided during each 24-hr cycle in order to be effective through the succession of thermocycles. Reduction of the daily heat input from 6 to 2 hr modulated the stimulating effects of cold cryophases: The median date for the beginning of vitellogenesis occurred 1 month earlier, but the number of responding females decreased from 100% to 40%. The thermoperiodic regulation of the ovarian cycle also relies upon a precise heat-cold balance per nycthemeral unit. This ensures the entrainment of an internal rhythm, since the timing of reproductive responses varies with the date of transfer from the inhibitory warm thermoperiod to the inducing thermoperiod (long thermophase, cold cryophase). At least half the females started vitellogenesis within 1-2 months after a late transfer (winter solstice) instead of 6 months after an early one (autumn equinox), and the median date for onset differed by 1 month between the two groups. However, autumn transfer was the only one to induce a group response in close agreement with the natural timing.
Testicular activity in reptiles is controlled primarily by thermal and thermoperi- odic factors; however, little is known about the relative contribution of daily heating and nightly cooling in these processes. This question was addressed in the lizard Lacerta vivipara whose cycle is characterized by a 6 month hibernation followed by a single spring spermiogenesis and a summer spermatogenesis. From the autumnal equinox on, lizards were maintained under a constant 12L/ 12D photoperiod and acclimated to different 24 hour thermoperiodic regimes. Treatments combined a short or a long thermophase (2 or 6 hr basking) in alternation with either a warmer (19-21OC) or a colder cryophase (3-7°C). Testicular activity was monitored by histological examination of the testis and epididymis in late December and in early March. Heat provided daily during either 2 or 6 hour phases advanced spermiogenesis and spermiation by 3-4 months. Cryophase tempera- tures had no significant effects on the date of onset of spermiogenesis whereas they greatly affected its speed of completion. Thus, the full testicular cycle, from one spermatogenetic wave to the next, was completed within 6 months under warmer cryophases alternating with either long or short thermophases. In contrast, only part of the cycle was completed in lizards experiencing colder cryophases since active spermiogenesis and spermiation were maintained for at least 2 months as under natural conditions. The functional significance of heat and cold per 24 hour cycles in the regulation of the testicular cycle is discussed.
Histochemical identification of lipids was performed on frozen sections of ovary and liver throughout thermal-induced vitellogenesis in the lizard Lacerta vivipara. Two classes of lipids were identified in both organs: triglycerides and phospholipids. The former are in a fluid state (stained by Sudan Black B), neutral (Nile Blue method), and unsaturated (reduce Os04). The latter react to a dichromate-hematoxylin method and are acidic (Nile Blue method). Throughout vitellogenic growth, oocytes simultaneously accumulate triglyceride and phospholipids linked to polypeptide granules. Both types of lipid inclusions always remain distinct.
Gavriilidi, I. & Baeckens, S. & Meester, G. de & Linden, L. van & Damme, R. van (2022) -
In many animals, decision-making is influenced by social learning, i.e. the acquisition of insights through the observation of other individuals’ behaviours. In cases where such socially obtained information conflicts with personally acquired knowledge, animals must weigh up one form of information against the other. Previous studies have found that individual animals differ consistently in how they trade-off socially versus personally acquired knowledge, but why this is so remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate whether an animal’s cognitive profile affects its decision to use either prior personal or new, conflicting social information, using the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) as our model species. We trained lizards to associate one of two colour cues with food, and subsequently allowed them to observe a conspecific trained for the opposite colour. After social demonstrations, lizards overall tended to use the ‘fake’, non-rewarding social information, but some individuals were more likely to do so than others. Lizards that showed faster spatial learning were more likely to copy social information even in the presence of reliable previous knowledge. Our study highlights the existence of significant inter-individual variation in social learning in a lizard, possibly mirroring variation in cognitive abilities.
Gavriilidi, I.-A. & Schwarz, R. & Pafilis, P. (2017) -
Gayda (1940) -
Gayen, N.C. (1999) -
This paper deals with the reptile fauna of Gujarat State, and is primarily based on a collection made by the author during the Gujarat survey between 1989-1993. Information from earlier collections from Gujarat in the Zoological Survey of India, have also been included, as are data from the literature. To increase the usefulness of the paper, species that have ranges approaching the State have also been included. Altogether, 66 species in 50 genera and 18 families that are known from Gujarat have been dealt with in this report. Keys, diagnostic characters, measurements and distributional notes have been incorporated in the paper. Two squamate species, Hemidactylus triedrus and Lygosoma lineata are being reported for the first time from Gujarat.
Gebhart, J. (2007) -
Gebhart, J. (2008) -
Gebhart, J. (2009) -
Gebhart, J. (2010) -
Gebhart, J. (2011) -
Gebhart, J. (2013) -
From the 26th of April until the 3rd of May I had a herpetological trip to Oman together with Javier Aznar, Javier Gallego and Gabriel Martinez. During these eight days we were able to find and photograph 48 reptile- and 2 amphibian species. The trip started in Maskat and took us by Al-Qabil, Thumrait to Salalah and back by Al-Qabil, Nizwa, Ibri, Barka to Maskat. The course of this journey is presented in chronological order.
Gebhart, J. (2015) -
Gebhart, J. (2020) -
Geduly, O. (1923) -
Geerlings, E.C.P. (1954) -
Geisenheyner, L. (1888) -
Geißler, L. & Brühl, A. (1980) -
Geissler, P. & Grabert, M. (2019) -
We provide new and supplementary data on the distribution and natural history of reptiles on the island of Cres: Dalmatolacerta oxycephala (range extension of an alien introduced population); Emys orbicularis hellenica (status of the population in the southwestern parts of Cres); Hemidactylus turcicus (first record after 38 years); Trachemys scripta elegans (first record on Cres).
U radu donosimo nove i dodatne podatke o rasprostranjenosti te prirodoslovne podatke o gmazovima na otoku Cresu: Dalmatolacerta oxycephala (proširenje areala strane introducirane populacije); Emys orbicularis hellenica (status populacije na jugozapadnom dijelu Cresa); Hemidactylus turcicus (prvi nalaz nakon 38 godina); Trachemys scripta elegans (prvi nalaz za Cres).
Geißler, R. (1979) -
Mit diesem Beitrag versucht der Verfasser, eine Lucke in den Veroffentlichungen zu schliesen. Der mir letzte bekannte Versuch, dieses Gebiet herpetologisch zu erfassen, machte MERTENS (1974). Die Verbreitungsangaben in diesem Werk haben heute nur noch historischen Wert. Daher werden sie in dieser Arbeit nicht erwahnt. Ich bin mir des Fragmentcharakters der hier vorgelegten Arbeit voll bewust. Es besteht die Notwendigkeit, die Fundorte Jahr fur Jahr zu uberprufen. Meldungen nimmt der Verfasser gern entgegen. Im Bereich des Kreises Offenbach sind einige Gebiete nur sehr ungenau untersucht worden. In den Randgebieten wurde jedoch intensiver geforscht. Die Beobachtungen erstrecken sich teilweise uber mehrere Jahre. Bei einigen Teilgebieten wurden die Studien erst im Fruhjahr 1978 aufgenommen. Von den neunzehn, in den untersuchten Gebieten Vorgefundenen Arten, sind zehn in der „roten Liste” zu finden. Einige Amphibien sind einer starken regionalen Schwankung unterworfen. So ist es z. B. dem Grasfrosch trotz zahlreicher Nachkommen nicht moglich, sich in Gebieten zu behaupten, die ihm zwar Laichmoglichkeiten geben, dann aber ein Uberleben schwermachen. Das kann sich auf das Austrocknen der Tumpel und Bache beziehen, das kann aber auch durch die Umgebung bedingt sein. Was nutzt ein guter Laichplatz, wenn die Felder der naheren Umgebung regelmasig m it Insektiziden bespruht werden. In Hanau wurde aus einer einfachen Vogelschutzanlage durch das Ausheben von Teichen und Anstauen eines Baches ein idealer Feuchtbiotop geschaffen, das allen Anspruchen genugt. Durch das Einbringen von Froschlaich hat sich der Bestand nicht nur gut erhalten, sondern sich in den Jahren 1974 bis 1978 so vermehrt, das im Fruhjahr 1978 drei bis vier Quadratmeter Laich festgestellt werden konnte. Der Verfasser ist der Uberzeugung, das solche gesteuerte Eingriffe auch an anderen Stellen des Rhein-Main-Gebietes zum Erfolg fuhren.
Gelashvili, D.B. & Nizhegorodcev, A.A. & Eplanova, G.V. & Tabachishin, V.G. (2011) -
Gelineo, S. & Gelineo, A. (1955) -
Gelineo, S. & Gelineo, A. (1963) -
Gend, J. van (1965) -
Gene, G. (1832) -
Gené, J. (1839) -
Generani, M. & Canini, G. (1996) -
Since 1993 the Museo Civico di Scienze Naturali of Induno Olona coordinates the Amphibians and Reptiles` census in the Province of Varese, to improve the knowledge of its herpetofauna, the distribution of the various species, as well as the number of their populations. At present three species of Urodela, seven of Anura, one of Testudines, five of Sauria and five of Serpentes have been catalogued, Podarcis sicula and Zootoca vivipara are new to Varese Province.
Geniez, P. (1989) -
Geniez, P. (2001) -
Geniez, P. (2006) -
Geniez, P. (2012) -
Geniez, P. (2013) -
Une comparaison de l`herpétofaune du Maroc et de la Jordanie est esquissée. Ces deux pays ont été choisis parce qu`ils se situent aux extrémités ouest et est de la Méditerranée, et que j`ai eu l`opportunité d`y séjourner plusieurs fois. Bien que distants de 3 700 km l`un de l`autre, ces deux pays présentent de nombreuses affinités dans la composition de leurs herpétofaunes respectives. Ceci est dû entre autres à des configurations géographiques en partie comparables. En revanche, l`isolation des plaines de l`ouest Marocain par les chaînes de l`Atlas et l`influence océanique très marquée ont favorisé la persistance d`espèces relictuelles endémiques et la différentiation d`espèces distinctes de part et d`autre de l`axe atlasique, alors que la Jordanie ne comporte aucune espèce endémique à ce seul pays. Enfin, le Maroc est presque huit fois plus étendu que la Jordanie, ce qui n`est pas négligeable quand on s`intéresse à la richesse spécifique d`un pays. En effet, le Maroc compte au moins 119 espèces d`amphibiens et de reptiles et la Jordanie, 100 espèces. Dans l`état actuel des connaissances taxonomiques, 13 espèces sont encore considérées comme les mêmes au Maroc et en Jordanie, presque toutes cependant représentées par des sous-espèces bien différenciées et/ou par des lignées très divergentes. Trente-deux genres sont communs aux deux pays, dont beaucoup sont des taxons des régions arides et désertiques, zones toutes plus ou moins reliées entre elles et non séparées par des barrières géographiques très anciennes. Vingt-sept genres présents au Maroc sont inconnus en Jordanie et 24 genres présents en Jordanie sont inconnus au Maroc. Contrairement aux similitudes des deux herpétofaunes, les différences sont surtout marquées chez les espèces méditerranéennes, auxquelles se joignent quelques éléments afro-tropicaux absents de Jordanie. Plusieurs exemples de couples d`espèces Maroc / Jordanie ont été commentés sur la base de photos originales prises dans les deux pays. Le genre Mesalina a fait l`objet d`une attention particulière, avec la mise en évidence de deux espèces supplémentaires pour la Jordanie: Mesalina bahaeldini et M. microlepis.
Geniez, P. & Cheylan, M. (2012) -
Geniez, P. & Cluchier, A. & Sá-Sousa, P. & Guillaume, C.P. & Crochet, P.-A. (2007) -
Recent genetic works have suggested that the Iberian wall lizard Podarcis hispanicus (Steindachner, 1870) sensu lato may in fact be a species complex, yet many of its taxa have not been formally described. We redefine the nominotypical Podarcis [hispanicus] hispanicus sensu stricto using univariate and multivariate morphological analyses and pinpoint its geographical distribution. Podarcis [hispanicus] hispanicus is a small wall lizard characterized by a flattened head and body, the general lack of a masseteric shield, a striped dorsal pattern, the frequent bifurcation of the anterior part of the vertebral strip, the belly almost always white and the tail intense blue in young specimens. Its distribution is restricted to the Spanish Levant (provinces of Alicante, Murcia and Almeria).
Geniez, P. & Crochet, P.-A. (2003) -
Geniez, P. & Crochet, P.-A. (2012) -
Geniez, P. & Crochet, P.-A. & Mateo, J.A. (1993) -
Geniez, P. & Deso, G. (2009) -
A new population of Podarcis liolepis has been discovered in the suburb of Toulouse (France), corresponding to the third known place of this species for the province of Haute-Garonne and the first of the nominotypic subspecies for the region of Midi-Pyrénées. Origin of this population is discussed and morphological traits to identify the nominotypic subspecies are described.
Geniez, P. & Deso, G. & Jacob, L. & Thomas, J.-P. & Issartel, G. (2008) -
Podarcis liolepis was formally considered as an Iberic element recently arrived in France, reaching the western Rhône river border but no trespassing it. The discovery of two new stations East of the Rhône River represent the first record for the Provence, in two new French departments, Drôme and Vaucluse.
Geniez, P. & Foucart, A. (1995) -
A new Fringe-toed Lizard of the scutellatus group found in Algeria, in the Beni Abbès area, is described under the name of Acanthodactylus taghitensis, from Taghit, type locality. This species is especially characterized by the size difference between dorsal and lateral scales, by the possession of four supralabials in front of the subocular and by an original colour pattern.
Geniez, P. & Geniez, M. & Viglione , J. (2004) -
Geniez, P. & Guillaume, C.P. (1985) -
Geniez, P. & Mateo Miras, J.A. & Joger, U. & Pleguezuelos, J. & Slimani, T. & El Mouden, E.H. (2010) -
Geniez, P. & Mateo, J.-A. & Bons, J. (2000) -
The list of the amphibians and reptiles of Western Sahara includes 46 species (4 amphibians and 42 reptiles), while 13 further species unknown in this area could conceivably be discovered there. Among the important facts, we exclude Tarentola boehmei from the fauna of Western Sahara, and report on the effect of the Jbel Ouarkziz which acts as a biogeographical boundary, separating the herpetofaunal elements from Morocco (north of the Jbel Ouarkziz) and from Western Sahara. The herpetofauna of Western Sahara is composed as follows: 10 species can be considered as being of Mediterranean affinities, 2 as North Saharan, 19 as purely Saharan, 7 as being of Sahelian affinities, 4 are tropical relicts and 4 are limited to the oceanic fringe of the Sahara and can be considered as `continental Macaronesian endemics`. This confirms that the herpetofauna of Western Sahara is mainly of Saharan origin but that this area is, in spite of its apparently uniform landscape, a biogeographical cross-roads for Amphibians and Reptiles. This can be related to the wide latitudinal amplitude of Western Sahara and by the climate contrast between the oceanic fringe, comparatively humid and temperate, and the remaining of the country, subject to a dry Saharan climate with strongly contrasted temperature.
Geniez, P. & Mateo, J.A. & Geniez, M. & Pether, J. (2004) -
Geniez, P. & Pottier, G. & Vacher, J.P. (2002) -
Geniez, P. & Sá-Sousa, P. & Guillaume, C.P. & Cluchier, A. & Crochet, P.-A. (2014) -
Recent genetic works have suggested that the Iberian wall lizard Podarcis hispanicus (STEINDACHNER, 1870) sensu lato is a species complex. Several forms have already been elevated to species rank and linked to available nomina, but at least three still have to be formally named, including the western Iberian forms currently designated as Podarcis hispanicus“type 1A”, “type 1B” and “type 2”. The aim of the present work is to assign a valid nomen to these taxa. Using multivariate analyses, we first checked that the morphological differences reported in Portugal between type 1 and type 2 are main-tained over their distribution range. We then investigated phenotypic differentiation between type 1A and type 1B, which were found to be so similar that identification based on phenotype is currently not advisable. We propose to treat type 1 and type 2 as distinct species because of their level of genetic and phenotypic divergence, large area of distribution and ample evidence for reduced or absent introgression in contact zones. We maintain type 1A and 1B as subspecies for the time being, pending further analyses of their contact zone. The valid nomen for “Podarcis hispanica type 1 (sensu lato)” is Lacerta muralis guadarramae BOSCÁ, 1916 which becomes Podarcis guadarramae (BOSCÁ, 1916). Lineage type 1A is here described as a new taxon: P. guadarramae lusitanicus ssp. nov., inhabiting northern Portugal and northwestern Spain. The type 1B lineage corresponds to the nominotypical subspecies that inhabits Spain, mostly the Central Iberian Mountains. We were unable to locate an available nomen for “Podarcis hispanica type 2”, which is here described as Podarcis virescens sp. nov. This species is widely distributed in the plains and plateaus of central and parts of south-western Spain as well as central and southern Portugal.
Geniez, P. & Slimani, T. & El Mouden, E.H. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2009) -
Genin, D.I. (1955) -
Genovarta, M. & Tavecchia, G. & Enseñat, J.J. & Laiolo, P. (2013) -
From childhood to adulthood we receive a lot of information on animal key species with a high charismatic value. Flagships species are also frequently used to raise awareness, stimulate conservation and to increase political support for conservation issues. Since flagship species do not, in many cases, represent the local ecological community, there is the risk that exotic species are more readily identified than local ones and this could be problematic, as knowledge is critical to promote conservation. Conservation is especially crucial on islands, where populations may be more prone to extinctions than in the mainland, and where isolation may favor endemism. To test the hypothesis that exotic species are better known than local ones, we surveyed high school children in the Balearic Islands, a biodiversity hot spot for conservation priorities. We quantified children’s knowledge of native and exotic vertebrate groups by using a computer-aided multiple choices questionnaire. We found that exotic species are better known than local fauna, even when local fauna is broadly common or of greater conservation concern. We also found strong differences in knowledge between different vertebrate groups: the best known were mammals whereas fishes were the least known. Surprisingly, even if less known than mammals, local amphibians and reptiles were better known than exotic ones. Children’s poor knowledge on the local fauna in relation to other exotic vertebrates may lead them to associate wildlife and its conservation with exotic species. We suggest increasing efforts on environmental education and focussing on direct experience of children in their local environment to increase their knowledge of the local fauna, and engage their interest in their own natural world.
Gentil, A. (1883) -
Gentili, A. & Schiavo, R.M. (2004) -
Gentilli, A. & Pupin, F. & Fasola, M. (2004) -
The worldwide decline of amphibians and reptiles is a serious threat to the maintenance of biodiversity. The nature reserve “Bosco della Fontana” is one of the last plain forests still standing in the human-dominated landscape of the Po plain (northern Italy). The herpetofauna of this forest is composed of seven amphibian and ten reptile species, most of which are declining in the Po plain; two of these are not indigenous. Rana latastei and Vipera aspis are present in large populations; Zamenis longissimus is also present in a smaller but nevertheless remarkable population. The nature reserve “Bosco della Fontana” has recently been declared an “ARE” (Herpetologically Relevant Area) by the Societas Herpetologica Italica for the richness of its herpetofauna and the skilled conservation management carried out there by the “Corpo Forestale dello Stato”. This paper illustrates the threats to the herpetofauna of this area, and suggests some conservational measures.
Gentilli, A. & Scali, S. (2008) -
Georgi, J.G. (1801) -
Georgiev, D. (1989) -
Field surveys were conducted on 10-11.05.2023 and 17-18.06.2023 by observation of live individuals or road kills and active searching under stones and artificial materials. A total of 12 species were recorded: three amphibian species and nine reptiles. Six of the reptile species were new records to Mount Ismaros. Now the list of the herpetofauna of the area is consisted of 19 known species.
Georgieva, S. & Vergilov, V. (2020) -
Geraads, D. (2006) -
The late Pliocene site of Ahl al Oughlam near Casablanca, Morocco, dated to ca. 2.5 Ma, yielded the richest vertebrate fauna of the North African late Cainozoic. It includes more than 55 species of mammals, and a variety of birds and reptiles, probably accumulated by carnivores. The faunal assemblage, and its poor diversity, point to a quite open and not very favourable environment, perhaps markedly seasonal. Overall similarity of the ungulate fauna with the rest of Africa definitely shows that the Sahara did not yet act as a major geographical barrier for large mammals, but there is no evidence of human presence.
Geraeds, R. (2015) -
Geraeds, R. (2020) -
Levendbarende hagedissen kampen al decennialang met de gevolgen van versnippering, verdroging, klimaatverandering, stikstofdepositie en de drastische achteruitgang van insecten. Dit zijn sluipende processen met cumulerende effecten die elkaar onderling versterken. De effecten zijn het best merkbaar in het kleinschalig cultuurlandschap waar kleine populaties steeds meer onder druk staan. Uiteindelijk kunnen onder dergelijke omstandigheden kleine ingrepen in het landschap al desastreuze gevolgen hebben, terwijl de impact hiervan binnen grote, gezonde populaties verwaarloosbaar is. Onderzocht zijn enkele praktijkvoorbeelden uit het Voorsterveld ten zuiden van Posterholt.
Geraeds, R.P.G. (2001) -
Geraeds, R.P.G. (2012) -
The Meinweg National Park and the valley of the river Roer in the centre of the province of Limburg are both well known for their high ecological and landscape values. Both areas are part of the European network of nature reserves, Natura 2000. Even though each of the two areas has its unique and distinctive character, they are inextricably linked. Unfortunately, the ecological connections in the landscape between the Meinweg and the Roer valley have become disrupted. The article describes measures to optimise this connection between the areas, using the Common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) as a case in point. The landscape between the Meinweg and the Roer consists of meadows, fields, forests, brushwood and hedges, houses, farms, gas stations, garden centres, industrial estates and a camping site. The core of this area, between the city of Roermond and the border with Germany, is traversed by the Keulsebaan road. We investigated 500 m wide strips of land on both sides of this road for the presence of the Common lizard. The survey was held in late September and early October 2011. During this survey, Common lizards were spotted scattered around the area. Most animals were found in the Herkenbosscherbroek, in the southern part of the investigated area. The best habitats turned out to be slopes with brushwood or trees and forest margins with a high structural diversity. The connection between these two Nature 2000 areas can beoptimised in the following ways: by establishing a less intensive mowing regime on the slopes along roads and brooks; by planting trees or developing brushwood on slopes along roads; by creating open spaces at forest margins; by creating fauna passages with guiding fences under the Keulsebaan road. The best location to start these measurers is the Flinke Ven area. Not only the Common lizard, but also many other fauna and flora species will benefit from these measures.
Gerlach, R. (1931) -
Germanou, A. & Valakos, E.D. & Pafilis, P. (2000) -
Gerris, W. (2021) -
Gerris, W. (2022) -
Gerris, W. (2023) -
Gerris, W. (2025) -
Gerritsen, R. (1975) -
Photographs of a fight between Lacerta viridis and Coluber viridiflavus are presented. The photographs were made north of Varese, Italy. The fight lasted about 30-40 minutes, at the end the snake disappeared with the lizard in its mouth.
Gerstner, M. (2015) -
Gerzeli, G. (1967) -
Gerzeli, G. & Piceis Polver, P. (1970) -
Geus, A. (1966) -
Gewily, D.I. & Mahmoud, F.A. & Saber, S.A. & El Salkh, B.A: & El-Dahshan, A.A. & Abumandour, M.M.A. & Kandyel, R.M. & Gadel-Rab, A.G. (2021) -
The current observations focused on the ultrastructure comparison between the tongue of two reptile species endemic the Egyptian fauna; Bosc`s fringe‐toed lizard Acanthodactylus boskianus and Sinai fan‐fingered gecko Ptyodactylus guttatus to exhibit the relationship between the lingual epithelium and its function according to their specific feeding strategy. A. boskianus possessed triangular elongated tongue with bifurcated tapering apex and wide base while; the P. guttatus had a triangular flattened tongue with conical shallow bifurcated apex and broad base. The ventral surface of the lingual apex of A. boskianus had transverse while in P. guttatus had two oval pads and median ventral groove. Both surfaces of the tongue of both examined species are covered by stratified squamous epithelium with great variability of degree of keratinization. The dorsal epithelium formed flattened and conical filiform papillae in A. boskianus, while in P. guttatus formed cylindrical papillae, conical, and tall filiform ones. Few taste buds are observed on the fore‐tongue but increase on the mid‐tongue of A. boskianus, while in P. guttatus, numerous taste buds are distributed on the fore‐tongue and mid‐tongue. Both surfaces of the laryngeal mound of both examined species provided with numerous of cilia and orifices of laryngeal gland. The present results confirmed that the tongue of A. boskianus acts as a chemoreceptor organ to follow pheromone trails of prey and mates. While in P. guttatus the tongue may play an important role in the feeding mechanism and act as a chemoreceptor organ.
Geyer, H. (1906) -
Geyer, H. (1908) -
Geyer, Wilh. (1895) -
GFN (Gesellschaft für Freilandökologie und Naturschutzplanung mbH) (2014) -
GFN (Gesellschaft für Freilandökologie und Naturschutzplanung mbH) (2018) -
GFN (Gesellschaft für Freilandökologie und Naturschutzplanung mbH) (2019) -
Ghaemitalab, V.S. & Kami, H.G. (2016) -
Squamata or scaled Reptiles are the largest order of new Reptiles including Lizards, Snakes and Amphisbaenia. They have formed 95 precent of new Reptiles. Our goal is Lizard Biodiversity of Torbat-e Heydaryeh in Razavi Khorasan Province. The study of Lizards Biodiversity of Torbat-e Heydaryeh in Razavi Khorasan Province was carried out in 2012 until 2013. In this research 132 specimens were collected and observed and identified on the basis of morphological, morphometric and meristic characters. The collected and observated Lizards belonging to 5 families: Agamidae, Lacertidae, Scincidae, Gekkonidae and Varanidae including 8 genera and 12 species. Results showed that Agamidae and Lacertidae families have the most frequency. The Agamidae family has the most genera and Lacertidae family has the most species. laudakia caucasia, laudakia microlepis, Trapelus sanguinolentus and Mesalina watsonana were the dominant species in this region and had a wider distribution rang in coparision with other species.
وجیهه السادات قائمیطلب1، حاجی قلی کمی2* (1396) -
Squamata یا خزندگان فلسدار بزرگترین راسته از خزندگان عصر حاضر هستند که دربرگیرنده همه سوسمارها و مارها و سوسمارهای کرممانند هستند و 33 درصد همه خزندگان امروزی را دربرمیگیرند. هدف ما مطالعه تنوع زیستی مارمولکها در منطقه تربتحیدریه در استان خراسان رضوی است. برای مطالعه تنوع زیستی سوسماران شهرستان تربتحیدریه در استان خراسان رضوی نمونهبرداری در بهار 1931 آغاز و تا تابستان 1932 به طول انجامید. در این پژوهش 192 نمونه جمعآوری و مشاهده گردید و بر اساس ویژگیهای مورفولوژیک، مورفومتریک و مریستیک شناسایی گردیدند. نتایج مطالعات نشان داد سوسمارهای جمعآوری و مشاهده شده متعلق به 3 خانواده آگامیده (Agamidae)، گکونیده (Gekkonidae)، سرتیده (Lacertidae)، سینسیده (Scincidae) و وارانیده (Varanidae)، شامل 8 جنس و 12 گونه میباشند. نتایج نشان داده خانواده آگامیده و سرتیده بیشترین فراوانی را دارا بوده و خانواده آگامیده بیشترین تعداد جنس و خانواده سرتیده بیشترین تعداد گونه را در منطقه دارا میباشند که گونههای laudakia Trapelus ،laudakia microlepis ،caucasia sanguinolentus و Mesalina watsonana نمونههای بارز منطقه میباشند و دامنه پراکندگی گستردهای در مقایسه با سایر گونهها دارند.
Ghaffari, S.M. & Mahmoudi, M. & Salehi, H. & Sari, A.R. (2023) -
Karyological studies were conducted using bone marrow cell preparations from four species of Lacertidae and Scincidae from Iran: Eremias persica Blanford, Eremias kopetdaghica Szczerbak, Ophisops elegans Ménétries (Lacertidae), and Eumeces schneiderii princeps (Eichwald) (Scincidae). Eremias persica was diploid with 2n = 38 chromosomes. The karyotype consisted of eighteen pairs of acrocentric macrochromosomes and two microchromosomes. Eremias kopetdaghica was also diploid with 2n = 38 comprising one pair of metacentric macrochromosomes, seventeen pairs of acrocentric macrochromosomes, and one pair of microchromosomes. The chromosome count for these two species is reported for the first time herein. The chromosome count for Ophisops elegans (2n = 38) was in agreement with a previous report and was the first for the herpetofauna of Iran. Eumeces schneiderii princeps showed 32 macro- and microchromosomes, representing the first report for this subspecies.
Ghaffari, S.M. & Parsa, H. (2007) -
Lacerta princeps subsp. princeps is endemic to Iran and found from the new locality of north slops of Dena mountain near Cisakhat in this study. Mitotic chromosome studies on bone marrow cells of male and female revealed 2n=35 and 2n=36 chromosomes respectively. The karyotype consists of 34 autosome chromosomes including: one pair of biarmed metacentric macrochromosome, 15 pairs of uniarmed chromosomes and one pair of microchromosome. in addition, it seems that male has 1 uniarmed X chromosome and female has 2 uniarmed XY chromosomes, which Y chromosome was smaller than X. The presence of 1 pair biarmed metacentric macrochromosome in L. perinceps princeps separates this species from another species that examined from karyologically point of view. It seems that this pair chromosome originate from the fusion of 2 telocentric chromosomes. Chromosome count for this subspecies is reported here for the first time.
Ghane-Ameleh, S. & Khosravi, M. & Saberi-Pirooz, R. & Ebrahimi, E. & Aghbolagji, M.A. & Ahmadzadeh, F. (2021) -
Past climatic events are one of the major drivers for divergence of species that could shape the present biodiversity and species dispersal patterns. Irano-Anatolian region is one of the biodiversity hotspots in the world. This region is predicted to serve various refugia during Quaternary glaciations. The eastern three-lined lizard (Lacerta media media) is a medium-sized lacertid species, which is originated from central Anatolian and is currently distributed almost across Irano-Anatolian region. In this study, the phylogeography, demographic history of the subspecies using mtDNA genes (cyt b, 12S and 16S) along with the species distribution models (SDMs) under past-present-future scenarios have been investigated. The results revealed that four distinct clades are well-established within the L. m. media which may intensely diverge during Pleistocene climatic fluctuations since the Mid-Pleistocene Transition (MPT). The past climate oscillations may isolate the population in various refugia throughout the Irano Anatolian region which has been led to this divergence. The results of SDMs also indicates several localities with suitable climate conditions for eastern three-lined lizard in the region since LGM (21 thousand years ago) until the current date. This suitability can be expanded under future climate scenarios considering the existence of various low and high altitude refugia. Some conservation implications arise from the results that emphasize the importance of the region and its multiple refugia in preserving biodiversity. It can be suggested that, future conservation practices should be focused on the obtained biogeographical units such as central Anatolia, west and northwestern Iran, which encompass high levels of diversity including distinct clades within the eastern three-lined lizard.
Gharzi, A. & Yari, A. (2013) -
Age estimation and growth were studied in a population of Ophisops elegans in the Kermanshah region, Iran, by skeletochronology. Age was determined for individual lizards by counting the number of lines of arrested growth (LAG) in cross-sections taken from femoral bones. According to data provided here, the maximum life span of females and males was 5 and 4 years, respectively. The average longevity of males was 2.15 years and 2.20 years for females. The mean snout-vent length (SVL) of specimens collected from this region was 48.75 mm with no significant difference between males and females. Based on the information provided here and by other workers, we concluded that the LAG observed in this specific taxon is the result of hibernation. Other environmental factors such as feeding and prey availability do not have any effect on the production of the LAG.
Gharzi, A. & Yari, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2012) -
In this research, researchers studies gross and microscopical characteristics of the ovaries and their germinal beds in a newly reported lizard, Acanthodactylus boskianus from Iran. Researchers found that in this species ovaries show variable morphology and located under the gut, just above the kidneys. Near to gonads hilum, a single germinal bed containing numerous oogonia and developing primordial follicles is observed that seems to be derived from the epithelium’s gonad. The germinal bed shaped like a butterfly in histological sectrions and produces a single clutch per year. It seems that this single germinal bed has evolved from mergiong two separate beds.
Gherghel, I. & Strugariu, A. (2009) -
The sand lizard (Lacerta agilis, Linnaeus 1758) has one of the widest distribution ranges of the palearctic species. L. a. euxinica has an isolated distribution, being present only in the Danube Delta and some vicinal locations from the Black Sea coast in Romania. During several expeditions in the Danube Delta, we have observed L. a. euxinica specimens with the “erythronotus” colour morph in two locations. One is near the town of Sulina and one is near the village of Sfântu Gheorghe. From the latter location, we observed two “erythronotus” specimens in July 2008, representing 10% of the total observed sample (n = 20). Future, thorough studies on the “erythronotus” colour morph of the sand lizard will hopefully shed more light on its possible taxonomical or adaptive values.
Gherghel, I. & Strugariu, A. & Ghiurca, D. & Cicort-Lucaciu, A.-S. (2008) -
The present paper contains the results of a 7 year faunistical study upon the amphibian and reptile species from the Bistriţa river basin. We recorded 14 species of amphibians (Salamandra salamandra, Triturus cristatus, Lissotriton vulgaris, Lissotriton montandoni, Mesotriton alpestris, Bombina bombina, Bombina variegata, Hyla arborea, Rana dalmatina, Rana temporaria, Pelophylax ridibundus, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Pelobates fuscus), 3 types of hybrids between amphibians (L. vulgaris X L. montandoni, Pelophylax kl. esculentus and B. bombina X B. variegata) and 10 species of reptiles (Anguis fragilis, Podarcis muralis, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Zootoca vivipara, Emys orbicularis, Coronella austriaca, Natrix natrix, Zamenis longissimus, Vipera berus).
Gherghel, I. & Strugariu, A. & Ghiurca, D. & Rosu, S. & Hutuleac-Volosciu, M.-V. (2007) -
Our study focused upon an area in which the herpetofauna had previously been very poorly studiedWe have managed to identify 12 species of amphibians (Triturus cristatus, Triturus vulgaris, Bombina bombinaBombina variegata, Hyla arborea, Rana ridibunda, Rana dalmatina, Rana temporaria, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Pelobatefuscus) and 4 reptile species (Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Anguis fragilis and Natrix natrix) in the 16 investigatedlocalities. Nine of these species have been cited now for the first time in the area. W have also identified hybridbetween B. bombina and B. variegata at 420 m ASL, this altitude is the superior limit of hybrids between Bombinspecies in Romania.
Gherghel, I. & Strugariu, A. & Pricop, E. & Zamfirescu, S. (2008) -
Identifying areas in which protected and threatened species occur represents the first step in establishing a proper management plan. The aim of the present paper is to present our preliminary observations on the herpetofauna and its habitats from the Northern Go¬mani Mountains together with arguments in favor of urgently designating it an oficial and legal strictly protected area. In the target area we have identified 12 species of amphibians (Salamandra salamandra, Triturus cristatus, Lissotriton vulgaris, Lissotriton montandoni, Mesotriton alpestris, Bombina variegate, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Rana dalmatina, Rana temporaria, Pelophylax ridibundus and Pelophylax kl. esculentus) and 6 species of reptiles (Anguis fragilis, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Zootoca vivipara, Natrix natrix and Vipera berus). Since all these species are protected by the national and European legislation, we strongly recommend that the are be urgently protected.
Gherghel, I. & Stugariu, A. & Sahlean, T.C. & Zamfirescu, O. (2009) -
During 2005-2008, field observations were made on the distribution and habitat occupation by Podarcis muralis in the middle Bistrita river basin. Prior to our study, this lizard was known from only 5 localities in Romanian Moldavia (Bicaz, Cheile Bicazului, Lacu Rosu, Gherman and Dodeni). Through the present paper the authors acknowledge the existence of 28 sites populated by P. muralis in Moldavia and propose a new model for the range expansion of the species in the area using manmade structures such as road and railway fences and road beds, benefiting from the mild climate provided by the Izvorul Muntelui barrier lake and forming insular populations to further colonize suitable habitats.
Gherghel, I. & Tredow, R. (2019) -
Anthropogenic activity often results in habitat fragmentation that can negatively impact biodiversity by destroying viable habitat and reducing the connectivity of the landscape. Anthropogenic features (such as rail ways) can also have the opposite effect, facilitating the expansion of certain species. Here we demonstrate such a case, wherein anthropogenic activity and structures facilitate the dispersal of a species whose capacity for territorial expansion is limited in the natural environment. Using habitat suitability and connectivity models, we show that the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) most likely prefers railways as a means to disperse into new habitats and/or maintain population connectivity across a fragmented habitat (i.e. from their southern populations, moving north along rail way tracks to colonize new suitable habitats). Furthermore, we predict the route and location of future colonization events based on availability of viable habitats and corridors to them. The potential impact of this invasion is estimated to be relatively low.
Gherghel, J. & Strugariu, A. & Galvan T. (2007) -
The present paper proves that the endangered steppe runner (Eremias argutadeserti) still exists in the “Hanu Conachi River Sand Dunes” Nature Reserve. Prior to thisstudy it had not been recorded for almost 40 years and had been reported as extinct inthis region by the Romanian Red Data Book of Vertebrates. However, the majority of itsnatural habitat has been destroyed by the Robinia pseudoacacia plantations from thereserve. In order to ensure the survival of Eremias arguta deserti in the reserve, and inRomanian Moldavia, urgent measures have to be taken to reconstruct its natural habitatthrough the development of a management plan under the supervision and guidance ofexperts. At present, the steppe runner population from Hanu Conachi is extremelythreatened.
Gherghel, J. & Strugariu, A. & Sahlean, T. Stefanescu, A. (2011) -
Ghiara, C. (1956) -
Ghiara, G. (1954) -
Ghiara, G. (2012) -
Ghielmi, S. & Bergò, P.E. & Andreone, F. (2006) -
We provide new distribution data about Zootoca vivipara and Vipera berus in Piedmont (NW Italy). The former species has been reported for: Bognanco (VB), Sessera (BI), Mastallone (VC), Rimella (VC), and Strona (VB) valleys. The adder, on the other han dm has been observed in Sorba (VC) and Strona (VB) valleys. Comments on these new records are also provided.
Ghielmi, S. & Bernasconi, R. & Vigano, A. (2000) -
Ghielmi, S. & Giovine, G. & Nenegon, M. & Lapini, L. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Heulin, B. (2004) -
Ghielmi, S. & Heulin, B. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Guillaume, C.P (2001) -
Ghielmi, S. & Menegon, M. (2004) -
Ghiglione, C. & Crovetto, F. & Maggesi, M. & Maffei, S. (2016) -
Ghira, I. (1994) -
Ghira, I. & Venczel, M. & Covaciu-Marcov, S. & Mara, G. & Tiberiu, P.G. (2002) -
Ghirca, D. & Rang, C. & Rosu, S. (2006) -
Ghiurca, D. & Gherghel, I. & Rosu, G. (2009) -
In the researched area we identified 12 amphibian species: Salamandra salamndra, Lissotriton vulgaris, Triturus cristatus, Mesotriton alpestris, Lissotriton montandoni, Bombina variegata, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Hyla arborea, Pelophylax ridibundus, Rana dalmatina and Rana temporaria and 9 reptile species: Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Zootoca vivipara, Podarcis muralis, Anguis fragilis, Natrix natrix, Zamenis longissimus, Coronella austriaca and Vipera berus. Within the region we identified species quoted (Cogalniceanu et al. 2000, Ghiurca et al. 2005, Gherghel et al. 2008, Iftime et al. 2008) to have the lowest altitudinal limit of their spreading area at much higher altitudes. Most of the amphibian and reptilian species are not endangered in the researched area.
Ghiurca, D. & Rosu, S. (2010) -
We studied 60 samples of Lacerta agilis from four localities of Romania (20 samples from Borca – Bacau County, 19 samples from Ocloş – Bacau County, 5 samples from Greci – Tulcea County and 16 samples from Bordei Verde – Galati County). We analyzed characteristics of the pholydosys and biometric characteristics. After that, we calculated the ratio of each investigated character and the variation quotient. Besides the existences of a special inter-population variability, we noticed the existence of large intra-population variability. Almost all the investigated characters in the analyzed populations of Lacerta agilis are heterogeneous or little heterogeneous.
Ghiurca, D. & Rosu, S. & Gherghel, I. (2005) -
In the researched area we identified 14 amphibian species: (Salamandra salamndra, Triturus vulgaris, Triturus cristatus, Triturus alpestris, Triturus montandoni, Bombina bombina, Bombina variegata, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis, Pelobates fuscus, Hyla arborea, Rana ridibunda, Rana dalmatina, Rana temporaria) and 8 reptilian species (Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Zootoca vivipara, Anguis fragilis, Natrix natrix, Elaphe longissima, Coronella austriaca, Vipera berus). Within the region we identified species quoted (Cog_lniceanu et al 2000) to have the lowest altitudinal limit of their spreading area at much higher altitudes. The species Triturus montandoni was identified at 320 m altitude at Agârcia and Doamna. Most of the amphibian and reptilian species are not endangered in the researched area.
Ghiurca, D.-S. & Rosu, C.S. (2018) -
Ghobashi, A.F.A. & ABU EGLAH, M.H. & TANTAWY, H.M. & IBRAHIM, A.A. (1990) -
A total of 302 specimens of amphibians and reptiles were sampled from Al-Arish town and four stations around it during 12 months period of study from January to December, 1988. 21 Species belonging to 11 famillies were occurred in the area comprising; one toad: Bufo viridis., 2 marine turtles; Caretta caretta and Chelonia mydas and other 18 terrestrial reptilian species. Acanthodactylus scutellatus was the most dominant cursorial species found in all sand dunes of the mean area in all the year seasons constituting about 30% of the total capture. Mabuya vittata was firstly recorded in Sinai. Six reptilian species were appended to the fauna of Al-Arish area, they are Agama stellio vulgaris, Ptyodactylus hasselquistii guttatus; Lytorhynchus diadema; Psammophìs schokari; Caretta caretta and Chelonia mydas. The highest catch number of individuals occurred in station 1 (82 specimens) while the lowest number was in station 5 (15 specimens). Seasonal distribution indicated that the highest catch number occurred during spring (87 specimens) while the lowest crop occurredin winter (47 specimens).
Gholamifard, A. (2011) -
Iran contains 36 named endemic reptile species in 17 genera and seven families. The most endemic and speciose family is the Gekkonidae, followed by the Lacertidae. These two families collectively dominate with 22 species (or 60.1%) of the total endemic herpetofauna. Twenty one endemics are known only from a single location or restricted area within a single physiographic region. An analysis of endemicity is given in terms of systematics and distribution.
Gholamifard, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2015) -
The genus Eremias, Fitzinger, 1834, with 35 species of mostly sand, steppe, and desert dweller lizards, is one of the most specious genera of the diverse family of Lacertidae. Here, we record E. fasciata from Hormozgan Province, a new location in southern Iran, and describe the specimens morphometrics. Previously published localities for E. fasciata in Iran lie between 450 and 1700 m elevation, while the elevation of this new locality is at about 15 m a.s.l.
Gibson, J.A. (2002) -
Gichikhanova, U.A. & Magomedova, R.M. & Gadziramazanova, A.G. (2021) -
Gichikhanova, U.A. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Doronina, M.A. & Doronin I.V. (2023) -
Gidis, M. & Baskale, E. (2020) -
The aim of this study was to catalog the species of amphibians and reptiles in Honaz District, in the province of Denizli, Turkey, based on field surveys carried out during March–October of 2015–2018. The species found include five amphibians (Bufo bufo, Bufotes variabilis, Pelophylax bedriagae, Hyla orientalis, Rana macrocnemis) and 22 reptiles: two turtles (Mauremys rivulata, Testudo graeca), nine lizards (Stellagama stellio, Mediodactylus kotschyi, Anatololacerta danfordi, Lacerta trilineata, Ophisops elegans, Ablepharus kitaibellii, Pseudopodus apodus, Blanus strauchi, Heremites auratus), and 11 snakes (Xerotyphlops vermicularis, Dolichophis jugularis, D. caspius, Hemorrhois numnifer, Eirenis modestus, Telescopus fallax, Elaphe sauromates, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Eryx jaculus, Montivipera xanthina). In addition, the various factors threatening these species in this area were determined and proposals for the conservation of these species are presented.
Giersburg, H. (1922) -
Giglioli, E.H. (1884) -
Giglioli, H.H. (1878) -
Gigon, A. (1975) -
Gijsel, J. (2022) -
The IPCC reports not only reported higher temperatures in the last decades but also modeled even higher temperatures and droughts for the future. This has a worldwide impact on natural populations, mostly negatively. Ectotherm populations face higher extinction risks considering their vulnerability to those changes. Being already a rare species in Flanders, the need to understand both the situation and the risk of the native populations is raised in priority by local nature conservationists. In this thesis, three different heathlands at the Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide are studied to determine the population densities of the model species Zootoca vivipara and how climate change affects their numbers. This has shown that wet heathlands are the preferred habitat for the model species, as double the number of lizards has been observed compared to dry and dried-up heathlands. Direct impacts of climate change also overshadowed indirect impacts, as prey availability was less optimal in wet heathlands, the lizard’s preferred habitats. However, soil moisture, as well as temperature, had a greater impact on prey availability than it had on the population numbers.
Gil-Sanchez, J.M. (1992) -
Gil, M. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Guerrero, F. (1988) -
Gil, M.J. & Guerrero, F. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1993) -
Thermal ecology, habitat use and activity patterns of the spiny-footed lizard, Acanthodactylus erythrurus (Schinz, 1833) in central Spain -- We analyze basic aspects of the ecology of Acanthodactylus erythrurus such as habitat utilization, annual and diel activity patterns and thermal ecology in relation to environmental and structural characteristics of the southern slopes of the Sierra de Gredos (Central Iberian Peninsula). At the study site, the spiny-footed lizard appears associated with open areas and bare grounds covered by scattered shrubs. It is absent from vegetated areas. Annual activity patterns are slightly bimodal and diel activity index seems to be irregular and similar in all sex and age classes considered. Body temperatures of active animals, around 36°C, showed minor variations throughout the day, and a remarkable independence from air and substrate temperatures . These results are discussed taking into account the ecological requirements of A. erythrurus, and its historical and ecological constraints, derived from its desert biogeographical origin.
Gil, M.J. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Guerrero, F. (1993) -
In the present work we analyse the diet of Acanthodactylus erythrurus during a two year period of study. Data were gathered in a Mediterranean scrubland area of Central Spain. The research had three objectives: the analysis of general food habits in this species, the study of seasonal effects on prey selection, and the contribution of ants to the diet of A. erythrurus in different parts of its range. Ants are the most important prey type, but in spring and the first half of the summer a shift toward the consumption of beetles take place. In general, Coleopteran taxa found in the diet are from families which typically show clumped distributions, i.e., similar to that observed in ants. These results are discussed in comparison with those from other authors. The diet of this species appears to be closely-related to food searching strategy, which is a very conservative trait within the genus. We therefore conclude that behavioural (as well as morphological) phylogenetic constraints strongly influence the diet of A. erythrurus.
Gilad, A. & Klass, K. & Werner, Y.L. (2012) -
The publication entitled Description de l’Égypte, which carries scientific results from Napoleon Bonaparte’s conquest of Egypt, includes illustrated descriptions of two lizards, Acanthodactylus boskianus (Daudin 1802), and the new A. asper (Audouin 1827). We note that their original drawings differ conspicuously in the degree of abruptness with which the dorsal scales are enlarged towards the rear of the back. However, this character has been overlooked by later researchers, who often found it difficult to distinguish the two nominal species by conventional transverse scale counts. We developed a method to quantify the degree of abruptness with which scale size changes along the back. For studying this new descriptor we reduced the expected within-sample variation by limiting the sample in two ways: (1) viewing the sexes separately, and (2) heeding the Seligmann effect and considering only whole-tailed individuals. However, the systematic problem persisted. According to our graphic analysis, in A. b. asper both the degree of abruptness of change in scale size, and when abrupt, the location of this change along the back, varied strongly but unimodally. The ranges overlap between provisional geographical areas. Similar abruptness in the change of dorsal scale size does not occur in the populations called A. b. boskianus and A. b. euphraticus. We conclude that the two classical illustrations must be considered as representing two extremes of a complex gradient. The taxonomic implication is to maintain the current trinomials in the complex until a major revision may direct otherwise.
Gill, I. & McGeorge, I. & Jameson, T.J.M. & Moulton, N. & Wilkie, M. & Försäter, K. & Gardner, R. & Bockreiß, L. & Simpson, S. & Garcia, G. (2023) -
Gilpin, H.G.B, (1969) -
Gilpin, H.G.B. (1968) -
Gilpin, H.G.B. (1969) -
Gilpin, H.G.B. (1970) -
Gilpin, H.G.B. (1976) -
Gimenez-Martin, G. & Abian-Burgos, J. (1957) -
Giner, G. & Gómez, D. (2016) -
Giner, J.M. (2001) -
Gini, A. (2017) -
The presence of the lizards Podarcis muralis and P. siculus is often known but reported in an almost exclusively descriptive way, a note in the margins of their ecology and of their natural history. The researches that investigated the interaction between these two species are very few, three are the most relevant (Maura et al 2011, Capula et al 1993, Avery 1978), but they are either very dated or referred to individual populations within the centers urban. This thesis therefore wants to fill a gap, shed light on possible competitive interactions and study what relationship exists, if any, between P. muralis and P. siculus when they share the same microhabitat. The type of research, given the total lack of comparative data, is purely basic. We have collected as much data (abiotic and biotic) as possible for both species, weighing the sampling effort towards the information considered most sensitive and crucial. In detail, the populations in Calci (PI) were sampled ex-novo from 04/2016 to 09/2017, at the Museo di Storia di Naturale in Pisa, where both species are present; the population of P. muralis of Giardino Scotto (PI); the population of P. siculus in the green area between Via Cisanello and Via Italo Bargagna (PI). Other comparison populations will be detected by previous measurement campaigns. The populations were sampled by capture (noosing) of the individual individuals spotted along the transects and released at the exact point of capture after analysis. Data on habitat and animal description will provide information on the possible differential status of these two species when present individually, or both, in a microhabitat. In particular, with regard to a possible interaction, differences in the diet have been sought through stool sampling, differences that will also affect the size of the animal. Other data are aimed at describing the different (or equal) preference for vegetative life in a specific microhabitat that have species in relation to the area in which they live. Since this is a basic research that does not rely on past works, any emerging results will still be an important contribution in the study, at any level, of P. muralis and P. siculus, as it will contribute to provide comparative data for the first time. different populations both in allopatry and in sympathy.
Gini, A. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Vitillo, C. & Massagli, A. & Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Coladonato, A.J. (2019) -
The co-occurrence of the lizards Podarcis muralis and P. siculus is frequent but anecdotally reported in the literature, mostly as side notes of their complex ecology and life history. There are a few studies on the interactions between these two species, but these are old or focalized only on individual populations. This research aims to fill and enlighten the possible competitive interactions between P. muralis and P. siculus when they share a microhabitat. Being a base researh, which is not founded on previous works, every result will be an important contribution to the study of these two lizards. We have observed a clear trend in P. muralis associated with the elongation of the jaw in the syntopic population of Calci while their body size remains unchanged between syntopic and allopatric populations. This differentiation causes an overlap in jaw length between the two species and the sharing of the same range of variation for this character. Hence, in syntopy, they are not distinguishable at all if we base our discrimination only on the length of the jaw, contrary to the common situation where P. siculus head-length outmeasures P. muralis. Syntopic P. muralis are instead well discriminable from their allopatric populations. For the first time, we provide comparative data from different populations, both in allopatry and in syntopy. Our preliminary results suggest a diversification only in head morphology (convergent character displacement) in the area of co-occurrence, hence a proxy of a history of co-evolution that shape the relationship of these two species.
Ginovés, J. & Betoret, A. & Martin, A. (2005) -
Giovannotti, M. & Cerioni, N. & Slimani, T. & Splendiani, A. & Paoletti, A. & Fawzi, A. & Olmo, E. & Caputo Barucchi, V. (2017) -
Acanthodactylus lineomaculatus is now regarded as an ecotype of A. erythrurus with which it has been recently synonymized. Despite the wide range of A. erythrurus, karyological data for this species are scarce and limited to classical cytogenetic studies carried out in individuals from only 2 locations (central Spain and Spanish enclave of Melilla on the northwestern Mediterranean Moroccan coast). Here, for the first time, we cytogenetically characterized individuals of A. lineomaculatus from the southwestern Moroccan Atlantic coast with the aim to increase the karyological knowledge of this wide-ranging species and to assess if any chromosomal changes can be found in this ecotype in comparison to other populations of this species. The diploid number of the individuals investigated is 2n = 38 which is typical of most lacertids. Active NORs were located telomerically in a medium-small pair of chromosomes, and no inactive NORs were detected. C-banding revealed an intensely heterochromatic W chromosome composed of AT-rich (centromere and long arm telomeric region) and GC-rich (most of the long arm) regions, with extended interstitial telomeric sequences. These telomere-like repeats occupy the GC-rich heterochromatin of the W. The DNA composition of the W represents a trait distinguishing A. lineomaculatus (southwestern Morocco) from A. erythrurus from Spain that possess a DAPI-positive (AT-rich) W chromosome. In conclusion, these results add further evidence to the remarkable karyotype conservation in lacertid lizards, although differences in NOR location and in W chromosome structure among populations could suggest an incipient speciation mediated by chromosome changes in this wide-ranging lizard species.
Giovannotti, M. & Cerioni, P.N. & Rojo, V. & Olmo, E. & Slimani, T. & Splendiani, V. & Barucchi, V.C. (2018) -
In this study, IMO‐TaqI satDNA, previously isolated in several species of Lacertidae, was isolated and characterized from four species of the genus Lacerta and three of the genus Timon. The aim was to gain further insights into the evolutionary dynamics of this satDNA, its occurrence among lacertids and to understand if it plays any role in sex chromosome evolution in these seven species. The results here obtained highlighted the presence of this repetitive element in the genome of all the species investigated, thus indicating that IMO‐TaqI satDNA is evolutionary conserved among a wide variety of lacertids. In addition, this element was found to be very abundant in the constitutive heterochromatin of the W‐sex chromosome of the four Lacerta species investigated. The occurrence of IMO‐TaqI satDNA on Lacerta heterochromosome suggests that it is involved in the differentiation of the W chromosome by heterochromatinization, and the fact that it is absent in the W of other lacertids investigated seems to confirm that repetitive DNA sequences would remain randomly trapped into the sex chromosomes, undergoing amplification as a consequence of the suppression of recombination.
Giovannotti, M. & Nisi-Cerioni, P. & Caputo, V. (2010) -
The genetic variability of the wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, was analysed in that part of its range regarded as its area of origin and also its expansion centre. The analysis was performed on partial cytochrome b sequences (405 bp) of 117 specimens representing 31 sampling locations from southern, central and northern Italy. The results of this study revealed 30 haplo- types in the Italian sample belonging to three main genetic lineages. The genetic divergence among haplotypes ranged from 0.2 to 6.6%, whereas the estimation of divergence times among mtDNA lineages highlighted a complex pattern of genetic differentiation with both Pleistocene and Pliocene divergences (3.2–0.7 Ma). These results put in evidence the role played by the pre-Pleistocene and Pleistocene palaeogeographic and palaeoclimatic events in shaping the genetic diversity of the wall lizard in Italy and confirm the role of this peninsula as glacial refuge. In addition, AMOVA analysis revealed the pres- ence of geographically structured clades indicating the occurrence of multiple glacial refugia in Italy, thus supporting a refugia-within-refugia scenario for the wall lizard in Italy. Finally, the results of this study seem to indicate a lack of congru- ence between the four morphological subspecies currently recognised in the Italian Peninsula and the main genetic lineages detected.
Giovannotti, M. & Rojo, V., & Nisi-Cerioni, P. & González-Tizón, A. & Martinez-Lage, A. & Splendiana, A. & Naveira, H. & Ruggeri, P. & Arribas, O. & Olmo, E. & Caputo Barucchi, V. (2013) -
Satellite DNAs represent a large portion of all high eukaryotic genomes. They consist of numerous very similar repeated sequences, tandemly arranged in large clusters up to 100 million base pairs in length, usually located in the heterochromatic parts of chromosomes. The biological significance of satDNAs is still under discussion, but most of their proposed functions are related to heterochromatin and/or centromere formation and function. Because information about the structure of reptilian satDNA is far from exhaustive, we present a molecular and cytogenetic characterization of two satDNA families in four lacertid species. Two families of tandemly repeated DNAs, namely TaqI and HindIII satDNAs, have been cloned and sequenced from four species belonging to the genus Iberolacerta. These satDNAs are characterized by a monomer length of 171–188 and 170–172 bp, and by an AT content of 60.5% and 58.1%, respectively. FISH experiments with TaqI satDNA probe produced bright signals in pericentromeric regions of a subset of chromosomes whereas all the centromeres were marked by HindIII probe. The results obtained in this study suggest that chromosome location and abundance of satDNAs influence the evolution of these elements, with centromeric families evolving tenfold faster than interstitial/pericentromeric ones. Such different rates render different satellites useful for phylogenetic investigation at different taxonomic ranks.
Giovannotti, M. & S`khifa, A. & Cerioni, P.N. & Splendiani, A. & SLIMANI, T. & Fioravanti, T. & Olmo, E. & Caputo Barucci (2020) -
Two satellite DNAs (satDNAs) have been isolated and characterized from three populations of Atlantolacerta andreanskyi. One satDNA (AAN‐TaqI) has been isolated here from the first time. It is characterized by a tendency to AT enrichment (AT = 54.2%) and monomer length ranging from 187 to 199 bp. FISH experiments showed that this element occurs in subterminal position on the short arms of all chromosomes of the complement. The analyses of genetic variability of AAN‐TaqI showed that the concerted evolution is acting effectively on these repeats that form separate clusters consistent with the geographic origin in the phylogenetic tree, thus supporting the hypothesis that A. andreanskyi would be a species complex. In addition, in the population from Jbel Aoulime this satDNA is already differentiated into two subfamilies. The other satDNA belongs to the family of IMO‐TaqI already isolated in other lacertids. Differently from AAN‐TaqI, concerted evolution does not seem to act effectively on this element that is not differentiated between populations. These results confirm that IMO‐TaqI (AT = 53.4%) is conserved in both chromosomal position and most of its sequence in the lacertids from which it has been characterized so far. Its remarkable evolutionary conservation for about 45 million years could indicate that this satDNA may have a functional role that future investigations could unveil. Once again, this study shows how satDNAs coexisting in the same genome may differ in their evolutionary pattern, even though the reasons underlying this phenomenon in the species here studied have still to be fully understood.
Giovine, G. (1993) -
Amphibians and reptiles of the Parco Regionale dei Colli di Bergamo. -- This article considers the herpetofauna of the Parco Regionale dei Colli di Bergamo that is composed of ten species of Amphibians and nine of Reptiles. The species are those one would expect to find in a similar landscape. Among these is relevant to mention Bombina variegata, now rare in Lombardy, and Rana latastei. The Author analyzes the corological categories noting a certain predominance of the European species (68%) on the Eurocentroasiatic (22%) and the Italic (10%) ones. The study of the microcommunitiesm has evidenced three fundamental models: the m. of the submediterranean wood (with prevalence of Reptiles), the m. of the umid environments (with prevalence of Amphibians) and the m. of the damp woods (with the typical species Salamandra salamandra).
Giovine, G. (1997) -
The observations on amphibians and reptiles of Lake Endine (Val Cavallina - Bergamo) are reported. Between 1992 and 1996, 7 species of reptiles and 7 of amphibians were observed, among which the presence of Rana latastei is particularly.
Giovine, G. & Ferrari, S. & Murelli, A. (2010) -
The structure of an oviparous population of lizard Zootoca vivipara carniolica (belonging to OS3 haplotype) from the Orobian Prealps (Central Prealps, Lombardy, Italy), and the morphological differences among individuals, were investigated. This study reports the first biometric data and pholidosis an Italian population of Z. v. carniolica. Further, sexual dimorphism and sex ratio were analyzed. In the studied lizard population inter-sexual differences are similar to those reported on the nominal species, while the sex ratio was skewed towards female individuals.
Giovine, G. & Ghielmi, S. & Cornetti, L. & Vernesi, C. (2016) -
Analysis of the distribution, haplotypes and conservation of the viviparous lizard, Zootoca vivipara vivipara (Jacquin, 1787) and the oviparous subspecies, Zootoca vivipara carniolica (Mayer, Böhme, Tiedemann & Bischoff, 2000) in the Bergamasque Prealps. -- In this study we analysed the distribution of two subspecies of the viviparous, Zootoca vivipara (Jacquin, 1787) in Bergamasque Prealps-Orobic Alps. The project was commissioned by “Parco delle Orobie Bergamasche” (Anfi.Oro.Project 2008/2011); the aim of this project was to further investigate the ecological distributional, conservational and genetic aspects about this lizard. Over the course of the study it emerged that the viviparous subspecies (Zootoca vivipara vivipara) shows a broader distributional range in comparison with the oviparous populations (Zootoca vivipara carniolica, Mayer, Böhme, Tiedemann. & Bischoff, 2000). Z. v. vivipara is present along the watershed between the Brembana Valley and Valtellina, almost entirely throughout the Seriana Valley and it is the only subspecies present in Scalve Valley. Z .v. carniolica is quite common in medium to high areas of the Brembana Valley, it is more localised in the Seriana Valley, and absent in Scalve Valley. An area of sintopy between the two subspecies was documented for the first time in Italy. Genetic analysis revealed five different haplotypes of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b, across Orobie Alps; two haplotypes belong to the viviparous subspecies, and three haplotypes belong to oviparous one. Our results underlined that Z. v. vivipara shows a higher capacity to inhabit different types of habitat in a broad altitudinal range, as opposed to Z. v. carniolica which occupies fewer types of habitat over a reduced altitudinal range.The two subspecies appear to be vicariant, since they occupy reasonably differing areas and altitudes.The oviparous subspecies (Z. v. carniolica) might be considered at risk in term of progressive loss of habitat, mainly due to reduction of grazing activities and consequent increase of woodland. Conversely,a considerable overlap of their habitats has also been observed. An analysis of conservational problems has shown that the oviparous subspecies (Z. v. carniolica) might be considered at risk in terms of a progressive loss of habitat,mainly due to reduction of pastures and a consequent increase of wooded areas
Gippoliti, S. & Capula, M. & Ficetola, G.F. & Salvi, D. & Andreone, F. (2017) -
Species-based conservation legislation needs to be based on sound scientific data and updated taxonomic knowledge. European Union environmental legislation is among the most advanced in the world, yet there is not a clear and regular mechanism to update species’ lists of Habitats Directive Annexes according the latest available scientific data. Here we reviewed the situation of the endemic Aeolian lizard Podarcis raffonei and indicate it as a case-study of possible ongoing species extinction into the Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot as the result of failure to update lists of EU protected species. We recommend to implement a mechanism of periodical revision of the Annexes of the Habitats Directive with particular attention to endemic EU species included in the IUCN Red List as Critically Endangered.
Girard, C. (1858) -
Girard, F. (2003) -
Girard, F. (2004) -
Girard, F. (2008) -
Girard, F. (2011) -
Girnyk, A. & Korchagin, V. & Vergun, A. (2018) -
Girnyk, A. & Omelchenko, A. & Vergun, A. & Ryskov, A. (2016) -
Nowadays approximately 80 taxa of unisexual vertebrates have been described. Among them, reproduction in the complete absence of males is restricted to reptiles, especially among lizards and is referred to as true parthenogenesis. The Lacertidae was the first family in which this phenomenon was discovered among Squamata. The genus Darevskia is of special significance, because these lizards have been the subject of extensive ecological and biogeographical studies, and because parthenogenesis has probably arisen several times within the group. D. armeniaca, one of the seven parthenogenetic species, arose from the interspecific hybridization of D. valentini and D. mixta, and exhibits low mitochondrial DNA and allozyme variability. In this study, we performed microsatellite genotyping of 127 specimens of D. armeniaca from 14 Armenian and one Ukrainian (introduced about 50 years ago from Armenia) populations. Using 4 microsatellite loci, 15 clonal lineages were detected in D. armeniaca. Some of them were found as major clones, distributed in various populations, and other’s represented rare clones, geographically restricted. It was shown that in the introduced Ukrainian population D. armeniaca, new genotypes (probably clones) were detected after the invasion. Some genetic characteristics of the populations and their phylogenetic relationships were also estimated.
Girnyk, A.E. & Vergun, A.A. & Omelchenko, A.V. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Korchagin, V.I. & Ryskov, A.P. (2017) -
A key issue in the study of unisexual (parthenogenetic) vertebrate species is the determination of their genetic and clonal diversity. In pursuing this aim, various markers of nuclear and mitochondrial genomes can be used. The most effective genetic markers include microsatellite DNA, characterized by high variability. The development and characterization of such markers is a necessary step in the genetic studies of parthenogenetic species. In the present study, using locus-specific PCR, for the first time, an analysis of allelic polymorphism of four microsatellite loci is performed in the populations of parthenogenetic species Darevskia armeniaca. In the studied populations, allelic variants of each locus are identified, and the nucleotide sequences of each allele are determined. It is demonstrated that allele differences are associated with the variation in the structure of microsatellite clusters and single nucleotide substitutions at fixed distances in flanking DNA regions. Structural allele variations form haplotype markers that are specific to each allele and are inherited from their parental bisexual species. It is established which of the parental alleles of each locus were inherited by the parthenogenetic species. The characteristics of the distribution and frequency of the alleles of microsatellite loci in the populations of D. armeniaca determining specific features of each population are obtained. The observed heterozygosity of the populations at the studied loci and the mutation rates in genome regions, as well as Nei’s genetic distances between the studied populations, are determined, and the phylogenetic relationships between them are established.
Гирнык А.Е., Вергун А.А., Омельченко А.В., Петросян В.Г., Корчагин В.И., Рысков А.П. (2017) -
Ключевым вопросом в исследовании однополых (партеногенетических) видов позвоночных является определение их генетического и клонального разнообразия. Для этого могут быть использованы различные маркеры ядерного и митохондриального геномов. К наиболее эффективным генетическим маркерам относятся микросателлитные ДНК, обладающие высокой скоростью изменчивости. Разработка и характеристика таких маркеров являются необходимым этапом в генетических исследованиях партеновидов. В настоящей работе с помощью локус-специфической ПЦР впервые проведен анализ аллельного полиморфизма четырех микросателлитных локусов в популяциях пар-теновида Darevskia armeniaca. В изученных популяциях выявлены аллельные варианты каждого локуса и определена нуклеотидная последовательность каждого аллеля. Показано, что отличия аллелей связаны с вариациями в структуре микросателлитных кластеров и с однонуклеотидными заменами на фиксированных расстояниях в прилежащих к кластеру участках ДНК. Структурные вариации аллелей формируют гаплотипические маркеры, специфические для каждого аллеля и наследуемые от родительских двуполых видов. Установлено, какие из родительских аллелей каждого локуса наследуются партеновидом. Получены характеристики по распределению и встречаемости аллелей микросателлитных локусов в популяциях D. armeniaca, определяющие отличительные особенности каждой популяции. Определена наблюдаемая гетерозиготность популяций по изучаемым локусам, рассчитаны скорость мутаций на данных участках генома и генетические расстояния по Нею между исследуемыми популяциями, а также установлены филогенетические связи между ними.
Girnyk, A.E. & Vergun, A.A. & Semyenova, S.K. & Guliaev, A.S. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Danielyan, F.D. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Murphy, R.W. & Ryskov, A.P. (2018) -
Background: The parthenogenetic Caucasian rock lizard Darevskia armeniaca, like most other parthenogenetic vertebrate species, originated through interspecific hybridization between the closely related sexual Darevskia mixta and Darevskia valentini. Darevskia armeniaca was shown to consist of one widespread allozyme clone and a few rare ones, but notwithstanding the origin of clonal diversity remains unclear. We conduct genomic analysis of D. armeniaca and its parental sexual species using microsatellite and SNP markers to identify the origin of parthenogenetic clonal lineages. Results: Four microsatellite-containing loci were genotyped for 111 specimens of D. armeniaca, 17 D. valentini, and four D. mixta. For these species, a total of 47 alleles were isolated and sequenced. Analysis of the data revealed 13 genotypes or presumptive clones in parthenogenetic D. armeniaca, including one widespread clone, two apparently geographically restricted clones, and ten rare clones. Comparisons of genotype-specific markers in D. armeniaca with those of its parental species revealed three founder-events including a common and two rare clones. All other clones appeared to have originated via post-formation microsatellite mutations in the course of evolutionary history of D. armeniaca. Conclusion: Our new approach to microsatellite genotyping reveals allele-specific microsatellite and SNP markers for each locus studied. Interspecies comparison of these markers identifies alleles inherited by parthenospecies from parental species, and provides new information on origin and evolution of clonal diversity in D. armeniaca. SNP analyses reveal at least three interspecific origins of D. armeniaca, and microsatellite mutations in these initial clones give rise to new clones. Thus, we first establish multiple origins of D. armeniaca. Our study identifies the most effective molecular markers for elucidating the origins of clonal diversity in other unisexual species that arose via interspecific hybridization.
Girod-Chantrans, J. (1810) -
Giroud, J.P. (1986) -
Gisbert, J. (1981) -
Gislén, T. & H. Kauri (1959) -
Gistel, J. (1868) -
Gkourtsouli-Antoniadou, I. & Deimezis-Tsikoutas, A. & Vassaki, K. & Vezyrakis, A. & Pafilis, P. (2017) -
Glade, U. (2009) -
Glandt, D (1987) -
Glandt, D. (1976) -
The two lizards Lacerta agilis and Lacerta vivipara show on one hand the tendency of ecological exclusion (from the view of landscape ecology as weil as habitat ecology) on the other hand this exclusion is rather incomplete. Habitats suitable for both species, especially those located at the edges of woods, are potential areas for mixed popula- tions. The stability of these mixed populations seems to be given mainly by !ittle abundance of both species; banishment by competition (L. vivipara by L. agilis) seems to be doubtful.
Glandt, D. (1977) -
In a previous work (GLANDT 1976) several ecological conditions had been described which allow rhe constitution of mixed popularions berween Lacerta agilis and Lacerta vivipara. The present work is a discussion on the possibility of stability wirhin such bispecific situations. The hypothesis is pur forward that on principal such situations can be at equilibrium, i. e. ehe srability seems not to become dynamic by any interspecific competition. This hypothesis is supported by rhe low abundance of borh species (adults), furthermore by low aggressive nature of the two species (especially Lacerta vivipara) and by spatial separation of juvenile Lacerta vivipara specimens within rhe two investigared popularions. On rhe orher hand there are two points which could endanger the hypo- thesis: the feeding factor and the time factor. Competitive exclusion between ehe two species could take a very long time, therefore further long time studies are necessary.
Glandt, D. (1979) -
(1) Between 1968 and 1978 observations on· the habitat ecology of Lacerta agilis (Sand lizard) and Lacerta vivipara (Common lizard) were made in the lowland of North West Germany (fig. 1). The 27 habitats investigated contained ten Lacerta agilis populations, twelve L. vivipara populations, and five mixed populations of both species. (2) The two species show a different habitat selection. The Sand lizard is dominant- ly found on loose sandy soils which are weil drained (fig. 2, 4, and 5). A substratum like this seems ·w be a basic habitat requirement because this species has to lay eggs into a loose and only moderate moist material (see LIBERMAN & PoKROVSKAJA 1943). The Com- mcn lizard on the other hand is dominantly found on loamy and clayey soils which are rather moist (fig. 4 and 5), and further on peat bogs. This species as an ovo-viviparous one does not need any specific `external` substratum for the development of embryos. Furthermore this species has no physiological mechanism for regulating transpiration as it is found in the Sand lizard (see REICHUNG 1957). (3) The vegetation structure of the most Sand lizard habitats is a low dense cover (grass, bushes) interspersed with patches of bare ground (fig. 2 and 6), whereas the Com- mon lizard is found dominantly in habitats with very dense low vegetation (fig. 3 and 6). A vegetation structure like this seems tobe important because this species has to regulate its water economy only by behaviour. (4) The different habitat selection of both the species reduces interspecific com- petition. But as there is a partial overlap of habitat requirements (fig. 5 and 6) mixed populations exist. Whether interspecific competition influences the ecological distribution pattern of the two species is not known so far. (5) In some parts of the Federal Republic of Germany the Sand lizard seems now tobe endangered. The Optimum habitats in the study area (fig. 1) are sand dunes and sandy terraces with a patchy heath vegetation (fig. 2). In such areas an active habitat management is required to safe at least the most important colonies. A detailed proposal for colony conservation is given.
Glandt, D. (1987) -
Glandt, D. (1988) -
Glandt, D. (1991) -
Glandt, D. (1995) -
Glandt, D. (2001) -
Glandt, D. (2006) -
Glandt, D. (2010) -
Glandt, D. (2011) -
Glandt, D. & Kronshage, A. & Rehage, H.O. & Meier, E. & Kemper, A. & Temme, F. (1995) -
lm Zeitraum 1981 bis 1991 wurde die Amphibien- und Reptilienfauna des Kreises Steinlurt (Nordrhein-Westfalen) kartiert. Dabei wurden 18 autochthone Arten (Amphibia 12, Reptilia 6) nachgewiesen. 6 Amphibienarten (fsichmolch, Bergmolch, Erdkröte, Laubfrosch, Grasfrosch, Wasserfrosch-Komplex) und 3 Reptilienarten (Blindschleiche, Zaun- und Waldeidechse) sind im gesamten Kreisgebiet bzw. in allen Naturräumen vorhanden. Der Fadenmolch lindet sich nur im Hügelland. Die 3 Schlangenarten sind nur lückig (Ringelnatter) bzw. punktuell verbreitet (Kreuzotter, Schlingnatter), 42 % det Amphibien- und 50 % der Reptilienarten mußten in eine Rote Liste der im Kreise Steinlurt gefährdeten Arten aulgenommen werden. Neben der aktuellen Verbreitung sind ökologische und phänologische Daten tür jede Arl zusammengetragen.
Glandt, D. & Schlüpmann, M. & Thiesmeier, B. (1998) -
In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden insgesamt 90 herpetologische Fundpunkte aus der Algarve, Südportugal, aufgeführt, die auf verschiedenen Reisen zwischen 1990 und 1996 registriert werden konnten. Es wurden alle 12 Amphibienarten und 13 der 22 Reptilienarten nachgewiesen. Zu den einzelnen Arten werden Angaben über Habitate, Beobachtungszeiträume, Fortpflanzungsaktivitäten, Vergesellschaftungen und weitere ökologisch bedeutsame Beobachtungen mitgeteilt. Für Hyla meridionalis konnte der bislang höchste portugiesische Fundort (902 m üNN) nachgewiesen werden. Die Hauptlaichzeit der meisten Amphibien liegt im Winter, erstreckt sich bei Hyla meridionalis aber bis in den April. Die Larven haben bis zum Beginn der Frühjahrsmonate - vor Austrocknung der häufig temporären Gewässer - ihre Metamorphose abgeschlossen. Als einzige Reptilien wurden im Winter eine Elaphe scalaris und ein Jungtier von Psammodromus algirus außerhalb der Versteckplätze beobachtet.
Glandt, D. & Trapp, B. (2022) -
Gleed-Owen, C. (2005) -
Gleed-Owen, C.P. (2004) -
Gleich, J. (1979) -
Gloger, K. (1920) -
Glogoski, M. & Blazevic, S. & Hoxenski, K. & Lisicic, D. (2019) -
Competition between species can lead to ecological and evolutionary differentiation of species. The Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) is a generalist species with broad ecological tolerance and frequently excludes other small lizards. The areals of Podarcis siculus and Podarcis melisellensis sometimes overlap and when that happens P. siculus overpowers P. melisellensis. In order to better understand the behaviour of both species and to explore whether differentiation in behaviour can explain dominant-subordinate interaction between these two species, we tested 28 individuals of each species, of both sexes, in open field and radial maze. Both experiments lasted 15 to 23 minutes and were repeated 3 times in order to habituate the lizard to the new environment. Lizards’ performance in novel and familiar habitat (after habituation) was measured and analysed for potential dispersal and explorative behaviour, cautiousness, risk to predation and food consumption. We hypothesized that P. siculus, as a dominant competitor, wouldshow greater dispersal and explorative behaviour, be more cautious and less prone to predation and would consume more food. As expected, P. siculus showed greater dispersal and explorative behaviour in both open field and radial maze and ate more food. Also, P. siculus was more cautious and less prone to predation. These results show that different behaviour can help competitors persevere and outcompete other individuals in ecologically competitive relationships.
Glogoski, M. & Gajsek, T. & Slipogor, V. & Blazevic, A. & Lisicic, D. (2018) -
Glogoski, M. & Gojak, T. & Lisicic, D. (2018) -
In 1971, five adult pairs of the lacertid species Podarcis siculus were taken from their native island Pod Kopište and introduced to the neighbouring island Pod Mrčaru. These two populations of P. Siculus developed high levels of phenotypic differences in both ecology and morphology. Those rapid changes also initiated changes in behaviour and social structure of the lacertid populations. To study sociability differences between the two island populations, we preformed two different behavioural tests. First test was an open field arena. Two plastic boxes were positioned to the opposite sides of the terrarium allowing the lizards to hide, and a bulb was provided for thermoregulation. A piece of paper was placed in both of the boxes – one was odorized with a scent of a random lizard, and one was non-odorized. The lizard could choose to spend time either under the shelter with or without odour, or outside the shelter and exposed. Second test was a three-chambered sociability arena. Two cages were positioned into the marginal parts, one empty and one holding a lizard. The lizard whose sociability was tested was placed into the central part. The lizard could spend time either in the one marginal part interacting with the other individual in the cage, or in the rest of the terrarium without any interaction. Personality variabilities between populations, and even within the same population, affect the data gathered during these tests. Variation in sociability could explain different dispersal responses and its effect in individuals’ aggression and boldness.
Gloor, R. & Benito, M. (2023) -
Glowacinski, Z. & Sura, P. (2018) -
Glowacinsky, Z. (1992) -
Gmelin, J.F. (1789) -
Gobbetti, A. & Zerani, M. & di Fiore, M.M. (1994) -
The possible role of prostaglandins in the reproductive processes of the male lizard, Podarcis sicula sicula, was investigated. The plasma levels of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), progesterone, androgens, and 17β-estradiol, and the in vitro basal release of these hormones by testis, epididymis and interrental, at different phases of the annual sexual cycle, were studied. In addition, the in vivo and in vitro effects of PGF2α and PGE2 on steroid production were evaluated. In in vivo experiments, PGF2α and 17β-estradiol plasma levels were highest during the refractory phase; PGE2 values were lowest and androgens highest in fighting phase. PGF2α injection increased 17β-estradiol in refractory phase; PGE2 increased androgens in fighting phase and 17β-estradiol in refractory phase. In in vitro experiments, testis released the highest levels of PGF2α and 17β-estradiol in refractory phase, and of PGE2 and androgens in fighting phase. Interrenal released the highest levels of PGF2α, PGE2, and 17β-estradiol in refractory phase, and of androgens in fighting phase. Epididymis released the highest values of PGF2α and PGE2 in mating phase. PGF2α treatment increased 17β-estradiol release by testis and interrenals in refractory phase. PGE2 treatment increased androgen release by testis in fighting phase and 17β-estradiol release by interrenal in refractory phase. The present data indicate that in male lizards, P. s. sicula, testicular androgen synthesis during the fighting phase is under the control of PGE2, while 17β-estradiol synthesis during refractory phase is regulated in the testis by PGF2α and in interrenal by PGF2α and PGE2.
Gobbetti, A. & Zerani, M. & Di Fiore, M.M. & Botte, V. (1994) -
The release of PGF2 and PGE2`, progesterone, androgens and oestradiol in vitro, and the aromatase activity in the brain of the male lizard Podarcis sicula sicula during three different phases of the reproductive period were evaluated. In addition, the effects of salmon GnRH, substance P, salmon GnRH antagonist, substance P antagonist, PGF2`, PGE2 and acetylsalicylic acid on the release of prostaglandins and sex steroids and on aromatase activity in the brain were evaluated during the same three phases. PGF2`, oestradiol and aromatase activity were higher during the refractory phase, androgens during the fighting phase, and progesterone during the mating phase, while PGE2 was lower during the refractory phase. Treatment with salmon GnRH increased PGF2`, oestradiol and aromatase activity, but decreased the amount of androgens released. Substance P decreased PGF2`, oestradiol and aromatase activity, but increased the amount of androgens released. PGF2 increased oestradiol and aromatase activity, but decreased the amount of androgens released. Acetylsalicylic acid decreased PGF2`, oestradiol and aromatase activity, but increased the amount of androgens released. These data suggest that salmon GnRH and substance P have different roles in reproductive processes, with opposite mechanisms, in the central nervous system of this male lizard: salmon GnRH seems to be involved in regulating the refractory phase, while substance P plays a role in regulating the fighting phase.
Gobbetti, A. & Zerani, M. & Difiore, M.M. (1994) -
Gobbetti, A. & Zerani, M. & Fiore, M.M. di & Botte, V. (1993) -
Prostaglandin F2, (PGF2,), prostaglandin E2 (PCE 2). progesterone, androgens, and estradiol-17 β vitro basal release by follicles of the oviparous lizard, Podareis s. sicula was studied, in addition, the in vitro effect of PGF2 and PGE2 on sex steroid release was evaluated. Follicles were divided according to the different vitellogenic developmental stages: pre-viteltegeoie, early-vitellogenic, mid-vitellogenic and fairy-grown. PGF2, and progesterone basal release was highest in fully-grown follicles; PGE2 and estradiol basal release was highest in early-vitellogenic follicies; androgens basai release was delectable m mid-vitellogenic and fully-grown vitellogenic follicies only. PGF2, increased progesterone release by fully-grown follicies; PGE2 increased estradiol release by all follicle types, except by early-vitellogenic ones. The present data suggest that PGF2;, and PGE2 exert different roles on follicles: PGF2.seems to induce ovulation through the mediation of progesterone, while PGE2 seems tobe implied in the start and the sustaining of oocyte vitellogenic development through the mediation of estradiol.
The release in vitro of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), progesterone, androgens and estradiol-17 beta by the corpora lutea (CL) of the oviparous lizard, Podarcis s. sicula, was studied. In addition, the in vitro effects of PGF2 alpha and PGE2 on sex steroid release by CL were evaluated. Corpora lutea were divided into four types, according to their different developmental stage: CL1 (unshelled eggs in the oviduct); CL2 (shelled eggs in the oviduct); CL3 (eggs laid 6 h previously); CL4 (eggs laid 48 h previously) and were placed into culture. PGF2 alpha secretion was highest in CL4 incubated samples and lowest in CL2 and PGE2 was highest in CL1 and CL2. Progesterone secretion was highest in CL2 and lowest in CL4; androgens were not detectable and estradiol-17 beta secretion was highest in CL2. PGF2 alpha decreased progesterone secreted by CL1, CL2 and CL3, while it did not modify release of androgens and estradiol-17 beta. PGE2 did not affect sex steroid release. These data suggest a role of PGF2 alpha in inducing luteolysis, while PGE2 could be implied in the maintenance of CL. A role of progesterone during gestation of Podarcis s. sicula was also confirmed.
Gobetti, A. & Zerani, M. & Bellinicardelini, L. & Bolelli, G.F. (1995) -
The in vitro effects of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on corticosterone release by ovarian follicles, corpora lutea (CL), and interrenals were studied in the female lizard, Podarcis sicula sicula, during reproduction. Follicles and CL studied in the female lizard, Podarcis sicula sicula, during reproduction. Follicles and CL were divided according to their different developmental stages; follicles: previtellogenic, early-vitellogenic, mid-vitellogenic and fully-grown; CL: CL1 (unshelled eggs in the oviducts), CL2 (shelled eggs in the oviducts), CL3 (eggs laid 6 h previously) and CL4 (eggs laid 48 h previously). Interrenals were divided according to the reproductive stages: pre-vitellogenesis, vitellogenesis, ovulation, post-ovulation, and post-deposition. PGF2 alpha release was highest in fully-grown follicles and PGE2 in early-vitellogenic follicles, corticosterone was highest in pre-vitellogenic and lowest in early-vitellogenic follicles. PGE2 decreased corticosterone in pre-vitellogenic, mid-vitellogenic and fully-grown follicles. PGF2 alpha release was highest in CL4, and PGE2 in CL1 and CL2, corticosterone was highest in CL4. PGF2 alpha increased corticosterone in CL1, CL2 and CL3. In interrenals, PGF2 alpha release was highest and PGE2 lowest during ovulation, corticosterone was highest during ovulation. PGF2 alpha increased and PGE2 decreased interrenal corticosterone during vitellogenesis, ovulation, and post-ovulation. In the plasma, PGF2 alpha levels were highest and PGE2 lowest during ovulation, corticosterone was highest during ovulation. These results suggest that corticosterone, modulated by PGF2 alpha and PGE2, is implied in the reproductive processes with different roles. In fact this steroid could favour ovulatory and luteolytic processes. In addition the hypothesis of an anti-vitellogenic role of corticosterone is discussed.
Göcek, C. & Tok, C.V. (2022) -
Pleistocene glacial and interglacial periods have been greatly affected the distribution pattern of the species. The impact of the global climate change upon species distributions such as range shifts in latitude or elevation has been widely studied. In this study, it was aimed to have a better understanding on the effects of the Late-Pleistocene climatic oscillation and the global climate changes on a widely distributed reptile species, the Balkan wall lizard (Podarcis tauricus). To find out the dynamics of the species’ range shifts, ecological niche modelling approach was applied. Bioclimatic variables and regenerated species occurrence records were used to construct models. The chosen model was projected to the present, reconstructed past and predicted future bio-climatic conditions. Moreover, distribution change and landscape connectivity analyzes were executed. Under present conditions, model prediction for the Balkan wall lizard was largely caught its known distribution area. The LGM distribution prediction was limited to a few spots (57,596.19 km2 ) in the southern Balkans, mainly due to the negative effect of the mean winter temperature. From the LGM to the present, distribution area of the species remarkably extended, particularly noticeable during Mid-Holocene (1,254.59%). The model predicted the distribution area of the species would extend due to high mean summer and high mean winter temperatures in the future and move basically towards northern latitudes and at higher elevations. A connectivity pattern in between the southwestern and northeastern
Göçmen, B. & Kasot, N. & Yildiz, M.Z. & Sas, I. & Akman, B. & Yalcinnkaya, D. Gücel, S. (2008) -
During the three trips conducted to Northern Cyprus in 2007, we found that three frog and toad species (Anura), 11 lizards (Lacertilia), 3 turtles (Testudinata) and 9 snakes (Ophidia) inhabit the northern part of the Cyprus Island. The distributions of a total of 26 reptile and amphibian species were observed and some ecological information on their biotopes was summarized, and the taxonomic states of some of the species determined discussed.
Göcmen, B. & Oguz, M.A. & Karis, M. & Kösemen, C.M. (2016) -
During fieldwork excursions on June and September 2015 we obtained new distributional records for three lizard species. Here, we present the first record of Darevskia rudis tristis and Lacerta viridis meridionalis from Turkey’s Ankara province and confirm the occurrence of Anguis fragilis in this locality.
Göçmen, B. & Tok, V. & Kaya, U. & Tosunoglu, M. (1996) -
Godakova, S.A. & Koechagin, V.I. & Semeyanova, S.K. & Chernyavskaya, M. & Sevast`yanova, G.A. & Ryskov, A.P. (2015) -
Cloning and sequencing of the partial reverse transcriptase gene (750 bp) of the Bov-B LINE retrotransposon have been held in parthenogenetic lizards Darevskia unisexualis and its assumed parental bisexual species D. nairensis and D. valentini. It was shown that the percentage of transcriptionally active copies of this gene, which does not contain a stop codon, is almost the same in the three species and is about 75%. The intragenomic divergence level of these sequences is low and was found to be 2.6% in D. unisexualis, 1.9% in D. nairensis, and 1.6% in D. valentini. The phylogenetic analysis shows the distribution of copies of D. unisexualis in each of the two clusters of RT sequences characteristic of D. nairensis and D. valentini. This result supports the view of the hybrid origin of D. unisexualis and does not exclude intraspecific hybridization between D. nairensis and D. valentini.
Годакова С.А., Корчагин В.И., Семенова С.К., Чернявская М.М., Севастьянова Г.А., Рысков А.П. (2015) -
Клонированы и секвенированы последовательности участка гена ревертазы (750 п.н.) ретротранспозона Bov-B LINE, составляющие около двух третей его длины, у партеногенетического вида ящериц Darevskia unisexualis и двуполых видов D. nairensis и D. valentini. Показано, что доля транскрипционно активных копий этого гена, не содержащих стоп-кодонов, примерно одинакова у трех видов и составляет около 75% от числа исследованных копий. Уровень внутригеномной дивергенции всех копий невысок и составляет 2.6% у D. unisexualis, 1.9% у D. nairensis и 1.6% у D. valentini. На основании филогенетических реконструкций показано распределение копии D. unisexualis внутри каждого из двух кластеров последовательностей гена ревертазы, характерных для D. nairensis и D. valentini. Этот результат поддерживает мнение о гибридном происхождении D. unisexualis и не исключает возможности участия в этом процессе D. nairensis and D. valentini.
Godin, J. (2002) -
Rarity degree, evolution of distribution and particularities of herpetofauna from Region Nord .– Pas-de-Calais. After giving a review of species (natives, introduced or probably introduced and mentioned by mistake) from Region Nord .– Pas-de-Calais, cartography of observations has been carried out. It permit to allocate a regional rarity rating to each species according to the surface area occupied and to reckon the evolution of distribution by the comparison of actual distribution area (surface occupied between 1995 to 2000) to the potential area. The comparison of species frequencies between coalfield and the rest of the region conduces to bring to the fore the importance of secondaries habitats being the result of mine development on distribution and preservation of some species.
Godin, J. & Godin, F. (2010) -
A la date du 01 septembre 2010, et pour la période 1995-2008, 450 observateurs ont communiqué 5423 fiches d’inventaire à la centrale herpétologique régionale, récapitulant 12449 observations . L’herpétofaune régionale autochtone et/ou introduite compte actuellement 18 espèces d’Amphibiens et 9 espèces de Reptiles. Leur distribution géographique est présentée dans la maille 10x10 km basée sur le carroyage Lambert Zone 1.
Godínez-Álvarez, H. (2004) -
This paper reviews the ecological literature published during the last 15 years on pollination and seed dispersal by lizards, in order to determine the possible effects of these animals on plant reproduction. This review is only limited to these years because articles on plant-lizard interactions during this period have used more rigorous experimental approaches than those made previously. All compiled data were analyzed considering the conceptual framework provided by the quantity and quality components of pollination and seed dispersal (i.e., effectiveness), since this information is essential to have an idea of the relative contribution of animals to plant fitness. Results showed that 34 species of lizards feed on nectar and fruits of plants. While lizards consume these plant materials, they could effectively pollinate flowers or disperse seeds to sites away from parent plants. However, more studies on particular aspects of these interactions should be conducted in order to completely understand the ecological and evolutionary effects of lizards on plants.
Godinho, R. (2004) -
Godinho, R. & Brito, J.C. (2008) -
Godinho, R. & Crespo, E.G. & Ferrand, N. (2008) -
Phylogeographic analyses based on the sole use of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) molecule reveal only a small part of the evolutionary history of a species or a set of related species. In this study, we have combined the application of slow- and fast-evolving nuclear markers (proteins and microsatellites, respectively) together with the analysis of two-gene genealogies to further understand the history of the Iberian endemic Schreiber`s green lizard, Lacerta schreiberi, a species for which a well established phylogeographical scenario is available. In sharp contrast with the observation of four divergent and almost allopatric mtDNA clades, our nuclear data revealed how two groups of populations diverged, persisted and began to admix along the mountains of the Iberian Central System. In addition, the combination of mtDNA and nuclear data showed how the core area of the species distribution responded to ice ages, first by relatively old processes of population expansion to the south followed by episodes of contraction that are at the origin of present-day isolates, and more recently by a postglacial expansion to the Iberian Northwest where new habitats were made available after climatic amelioration. Taken together with recently published results for a variety of other organisms, our results suggest that complex processes of fragmentation, expansion and admixture can only be properly addressed through the use of several and complementary types of molecular markers. Finally, we also suggest that southern European refugia are both hotspots and melting pots of genetic diversity.
Godinho, R. & Crespo, E.G. & Ferrand, N. & Harris, D.J. (2005) -
Partial DNA sequences from three mitochondrial (cytochrome b, 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA) and two nuclear (-fibrinogen intron 7 and C-mos) genes were used to estimate the phylogenetic relationships among all eight extant species of green lizards, Lacerta sensu stricto, and many currently recognized subspecies. All eight species form a monophyletic group. L. agilis, L. schreiberi and L. strigata are genetically well differentiated species. L. trilineata and L. pamphylica are not monophyletic units based on analyses of the -fibrinogen intron 7. Lacerta media is closely related to some Lacerta trilineata. L. bilineata and L. viridis are closely related, and recognition of L. bilineata as a distinct species makes L. viridis paraphyletic also. For both L. bilineata and L. viridis, some subspecies appear to remain in their southern glacial refugia, while a single genetic entity shows successfully postglacial expansion. The topology derived from C-mos variation is concordant with that derived from mtDNA, with substitutions occurring at a similar rate to that of transversions in the rRNA genes. Although C-mos is typically used at deeper taxonomic levels it is also phylogenetically informative within green lizards. -fibrinogen intron 7, typically used for assessing phylogenetic relationships among bird species, is a useful phylogenetic marker for reptiles also, showing considerable variation between species. There is not complete concordance between estimates of relationships derived from the mtDNA and nuclear markers, probably because rapid diversification led to incomplete lineage sorting in the green lizards. Introgression could also be occuring between some species.
Godinho, R. & Dominguez, V. & Crespo, E.G. & Ferrand, N. (2006) -
C- mos is a highly conserved intronless gene that has proved useful in the analysis of ancient phylogenetic relationships within vertebrates. We selected the Iberian endemic Schreiber’s green lizard ( Lacerta schreiberi ) that persisted in allopatric refugia since the late Pliocene to investigate the utility of the C- mos nuclear gene for intraspecific phylogeo- graphic studies. Our combination of DNA sequencing with the high resolving power of single-strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP) effectively discriminated four com- mon alleles showing strong population structuring ( F ST = 0.46). In addition, reconstruction of allele phylogenetic relationships further improved our understanding of C- mos spatial patterns of variation and allowed a comparison with previously described mitochondrial DNA data. Finally, limited sequencing of an extended C- mos fragment in six additional Lacerta species showed extensive polymorphism, to our knowledge representing a rare example of variation in a highly conserved nuclear gene.
Godinho, R. & Ferrand, N. & Crespo, E.G. (2002) -
Godinho, R. & Harris, D.J. & Crespo, E.G. (2001) -
Godinho, R. & Mendonça, B. & Crespo, E.G. & Ferrand, N. (2006) -
The study of nuclear genealogies in natural populations of nonmodel organisms is expected to provide novel insights into the evolutionary history of populations, especially when developed in the framework of well-established mtDNA phylogeographical scenarios. In the Iberian Peninsula, the endemic Schreiber`s green lizard Lacerta schreiberi exhibits two highly divergent and allopatric mtDNA lineages that started to split during the late Pliocene. In this work, we performed a fine-scale analysis of the putative mtDNA contact zone together with a global analysis of the patterns of variation observed at the nuclear -fibrinogen intron 7 (-fibint7). Using a combination of DNA sequencing with single-strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP) analysis, we show that the observed genealogy at the -fibint7 locus reveals extensive admixture between two formerly isolated lizard populations while the two mtDNA lineages remain essentially allopatric. In addition, a private -fibint7 haplotype detected in the single population where both mtDNA lineages were found in sympatry is probably the result of intragenic recombination between the two more common and divergent -fibint7 haplotypes. Our results suggest that the progressive incorporation of nuclear genealogies in investigating the ancient demography and admixture dynamics of divergent genomes will be necessary to obtain a more comprehensive picture of the evolutionary history of organisms.
Godinho, R. & Paulo, O. & Ferrand, N. & Luis, C. & Rosa, H.D. & Crespo, E.G. (2003) -
The genetic characteristics ofthe Iberian Schreiber`s green lizard (Lacerta schreiberi) remain largely unknown. We investigated the population structure of this species using conventional electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing to screen 24 protein loci from 11 representative populations of the Iberian Peninsula. Thirteen polymorphic loci displaying a total of 30 alleles revealed significant partitioning of genetic variation among populations (FST=0.448). Analysis of standard genetic variability measures and allelic distribution profiles indicated that the most variable populations are located in the main distribution area of the species: the north-western corner of the Iberian Peninsula and the Spanish Central System. In contrast, southern isolated populations showed depleted levels of genetic diversity, indicating that severe restrictions to gene flow together with small population sizes are promoting genetic uniformity. We suggest that present-day patterns of genetic diversity in L. schreiberi populations are concordant with the biogeographical hypothesis of a recent expansion to the south followed by a history of contraction and fragmentation resulting in today`s isolated southern populations.
Godinho, R. & Teixeira, J. & Rebelo, R. & Segurado, P. & Loureiro, A. & Alvares, F. & Gomes, N. & Gardoso, P. & Camilo-Alves, C. & Brito, J.C. (1999) -
Records for the amphibian and reptile species of continental Portugal were plotted on maps using the 10 10 km squares of the UTM grid system. A total of 9394 observations were collected, from which 6485 re- cords came from previous national atlases, 1790 from recent published and unpublished work, and 1119 co- rrespond to new observations made by the authors and their collaborators. Overall 31.0% of the records are pre- sented for the first time in a national atlas. Remarkable new records include those for Tarentola mauritanica and Blanus cinereus, enlarging their known range into areas where they were not thought to occur. We present and discuss amphibian and reptile species-density maps.
Godinho, S. & Santos, A.P. & Sa ́-Sousa, P. (2011) -
This study was carried out in the Iberian-Mediterranean region of Alentejo (Southern Portugal) to discover which ‘montado’ management practices significantly affected reptile variables (abundance, richness). Field surveys on 30 sampling plots allowed us to identify 370 individuals distributed among 12 terrestrial reptile species (six lizards, one amphisbaenid and five colubrid snakes). The lizard Psammodromus algirus was the dominant species (n = 297 individuals). The highest species richness was comprised of five species, whilst two or three species were recorded in two-thirds of the sampling plots. Principal component analysis over management variables accounted for 71.8% of the total variance and subsequently helped to reveal four agrosilvopastoral types. Among them, the highest reptile abundance largely overlapped the cork oak montado, while higher cattle stocking rates were estimated (trampling index) to occur in the holm oak areas, affecting significantly the reptiles. Regression models also showed that both reptile abundance and richness were significantly related to montado areas, where the shrub layer is well preserved and cattle are either absent or present at low stocking rates. Adequate management of montado, preserving the shrub patchwork, is crucial for the conservation of reptiles. Livestock stocking rates should also be maintained at a sustainable level of 0.2–0.4 cattle/ha.
Godman, M. (1870) -
Gofer, S. & Bouskila, A. & Berger-Tal, O. (2021) -
Goffinet, A.M. (2004) -
From the earliest stage of its ontogenesis, the mammalian cerebral cor-tex displays a remarkable cytoarchitectonic organization, with its neurons oriented radially within the cortical plate (CP). It is not known whether this radial organization of cortical neurons is characteristic of every cerebral cortex or whether it reflects a progressive phylogenetic acquisition. In order to study this question, the embryonic de-velopment of the cortex has been examined in reptiles, where it is the most primitive. Two species, Emys orbicularis and Lacerta agilis, representative of the two principal reptilian orders (chelonians and squamates), have been studied with histological methods, Golgi impregnation, and electron micros-copy. Very similar patterns of cell proliferation, migration, maturation, and synaptogenesis have been observed. However, important species differences are present in the cellular organization of the cortical plate. Whereas in Emys the structure of the cortical plate is rudimentary, in Lacerta it appears well developed and quite reminiscent of its mammalian counterpart. Prelimi-nary comparisons with embryological preparations of Sphenodon and Croco-dilus niloticus show that the organization of the cortical plate displays significant variations among the different reptilian groups. The present results suggest that the radial organization of cortical neu-rons is not an all or nothing phenomenon but has been acquired indepen-dently and is thus acase of homoplasy, probably due to convergence (North-cutt, 1981). Several possible implications of these findings are discussed and a working hypothesis based on the role of radial glial cells in the formation of cytoarchitectonic patterns (Rakic, 1980) is presented.
Göhler, V. (1981) -
Göhler, V. (1982) -
Gojak, T. & Glogoski, M. & Lisicic, D. (2018) -
Göke, G. (1952) -
Göke, G. (1963) -
Goldberg, S.R. (2006) -
The reproductive cycle of the spotted sand lizard, Pedioplanis lineoocellata, is described from histological examination of gonadal material. Reproduction is seasonal and mainly confined to summer. Males have a testicular cycle in which spermiogenesis occurred primarily in December-February. Females with enlarged ovarian follicles (> 4 mm length) occurred January-February and October. The presence of females with corpora lutea from a previous clutch and yolk deposition for a subsequent clutch suggests more than one clutch can be produced in the same reproductive season. Mean clutch size for 22 females with enlarged ovarian follicles was 6.8 [+ or -] 2.0 SD, range: 2-11. Two eggs is a new minimum clutch size and 11 is a new maximum clutch size for P. lineoocellata. The smallest reproductively active male measured 42 mm SVL and the smallest reproductively active female measured 50 mm SVL.
Males of Heliobolus lugubris exhibit a testicular cycle with a prolonged period of sperm formation (spermatogenesis) extending from May to March (no males were examined from winter). Females were gravid during between November and February. Based on the observation of corpora lutea from a previous clutch and concomitant yolk deposition for a subsequent clutch in the same ovary of four females, H. lugubris may produce multiple clutches in the same reproductive season. Mean clutch size for 25 females was 3.44 ± 1.42 SD, range: 1-6. Clutch sizes of one, two and three eggs are new minimum clutch sizes for H. lugubris. Neonates were collected in January, February and April.
The reproductive cycle of the Namaqua sand lizard, Pedioplanis namaquensis, from southern Africa is described from histological examination of gonadal material from museum specimens. Males followed a seasonal testicular cycle in which sperm was produced in January–March and September–December. Testes in regression were present in March and May. Females with enlarged ovarian follicles (>4 mm length) or oviductal eggs were collected between November and February. Clutch size for 14 females was 3.8 ± 0.97 S.D. eggs, range 3–5. Histological evidence is presented that two clutches may be produced in the same reproductive season.
The reproductive cycle of the spotted sand lizard, Meroles suborbitalis was studied from a histological examination of gonads. The reproductive cycle is prolonged with males undergoing spermiogenesis in all months examined. Females with reproductively active ovaries were found in all months except July. Histological evidence is presented (corpora lutea and yolk deposition in the same ovary) that more than one clutch can be produced in the same reproductive period. Females undergo a quiescent period between clutches. Regression analysis revealed a significant correlation between female body size and clutch size. Mean clutch size for 55 gravid females was 3.98 [+ or -] 1.01 SD, range 1-6. One and two eggs are new minimum clutch sizes for M. suborbitalis. The smallest reproductively active male measured 45 mm SVL; the smallest reproductively active female measured 48 mm SVL. The prolonged reproductive cycle of M. suborbitalis resembles that of Meroles anchietae.
Goldberg, S.R. (2008) -
The reproductive cycle of the common rough-scaled lizard, Ichnotropis squamulosa from southern Africa was studied from a histological examination of gonads. The smallest reproductively active male and female I. squamulosa measured 47 mm and 58 mm SVL, respectively. Males began (spermiogenesis) sperm production and females began yolk deposition in February (summer). The reproductive cycle of I. squamulosa differs from that of other lacertid lizards from southern Africa which typically begin sperm production in late winter or early spring concurrent with the onset of yolk deposition. This difference in timing of reproduction may enhance survival of I. squamulosa as its young appear in spring by which time neonates of other lacertid species are larger and have different dietary preferences.
Goldberg, S.R. (2009) -
Goldberg, S.R. (2010) -
Goldberg, S.R. (2012) -
Mesalina guttulata follows a seasonal reproductive cycle in Israel which commences in autumn and concludes in spring. Mean clutch size (n = 16) was 4.2±1.3 SD, range 1-6. One is a new minimum clutch size for this species. Males and females of M. guttulata reach maturity at 36 mm and 43 mm snout vent length, respectively. Mature females were larger than males. There was no suggestion that females produce multiple clutches. The correlation between female body size and clutch size was not significant.
Goldberg, S.R. (2013) -
Acanthodactylus boskianus are reproductively active in Israel from March to June. Mean clutch size was 3.2 ± 0.20, range 3–4. Males reach maturity at 50 mm snoutvent length, and females at 48 mm SVL respectively. The mean SVL of males was significantly larger than that of females. There was no evidence that females produce multiple clutches.
Goldberg, S.R. (2014) -
Goldberg, S.R. & Bursey, C.R. (2009) -
Goldberg, S.R. & Bursey, C.R. (2010) -
Goldberg, S.R. & Bursey, C.R. (2013) -
Goldberg, S.R. & Maza, R. (2020) -
Goldberg, S.R. & Robinson, M.D. (1979) -
The reproductive cycles of two narrowly sympatric lacertid lizards from the Namib Desert of Namibia (South-West Africa) were investigated. Aporosaura anchietae is capable of continuous reproductive activity for prolonged periods (Jan 1976-Feb 1977). Reproductive activity declined sharply in March 1977, but quickly increased in April. Recovery was completed by June 1977, and reproduction continued into December 1977 when the study was terminated. Continuous reproduction for more than 1 yr is typical of tropical lizards, but has not been reported previously for a desert species. Causes of the March 1977 reproductive decline are not totally clear, but appear to be related to decreased rainfall, to lower productivity of insects, and to lower levels of stored fat. The average clutch of 85 females was 1.3 eggs (range 1-2), and 2-4 clutches are produced yearly. Meroles cuneirostris has a reproductive cycle typical of temperate zone species, with spermiogenesis occurring May-February (spring-summer), followed by autumnal regression (March) and then recrudescence (April). Oviducal eggs were found over a 5-mo period (Sep-Mar). Clutch size of 29 females averaged 2.9 eggs (range 1-4), and females can produce two clutches each year. Both species have seasonal fat cycles typical of temperate zone lizards, in which fat bodies enlarge in autumn and are depleted by spring, but the relative amounts of fat stored by each species differ considerably.
Goldby, F. (1934) -
Goldby, F. (1937) -
Goldby, F. & Robinson, L.R. (1962) -
The degeneration resulting from lesions in dorsal spinal root fibres and in ascending tracts of the spinal cord in Lacerta viridis has been studied, using the Holmes silver impregnation method and a modified Nauta technique. The nature and criteria of degeneration as revealed by these methods are reviewed. Some features of the normal dorsal roots and spinal cord are described. Severance of three adjacent dorsal roots at the levels of the limb plexuses produced ipsilateral degeneration in dorsal column fibres ascending to the dorsal part of the medulla in fasciculi corresponding closely with the cuneate (forelimb) and gracile (hindlimb) fasciculi of mammals. Intraspinal connexions in the ventral horns and in the roots of the dorsal horns were also demonstrated. Hemisections of the cord resulted in additional degeneration in the superficial part of the lateral column. This could be traced to the cerebellum and, less certainly, to the midbrain. Numerous collaterals were given off to the reticular formation in the medulla. It is concluded that the arrangement of dorsal spinal root connexions and of ascending tracts in the dorsal and lateral columns of the spinal cord is very similar to that found in mammals. No evidence for the presence of long ascending tracts in the anterior columns of the spinal cord was found.
Goldfarb, B.A. & Lambert, M.R. & Donihue, C.M. & Watkins-Colwell, G.J. (2016) -
Goldfuß, O. (1886) -
Goldsmith, M.C. (2002) -
The endemic reptiles on Gran Canaria, and how the Canary Islands remained colonized by the herpetofauna -- A portrait of the endemic reptile species of Gran Canaria is presented with notes on observations done by the author in December 2001. Tarentola b. boettgeri and Chalcides sexlineatus were found singularly under stones of the same rocky locations. Gallotia stehIini was observed in the vegetation of the sand dunes at Maspalomas. These species were not observed in or close to the hotels. The author suggests that the frequent spraying of pesticides against cockroaches in hotels may be the cause of its absence there. Furthermore, evidence of the colonisation sequence of the three Canary Island reptile genera is summarised.
Goldstein, M.H. & Jacobs, V.L. (1969) -
Gollmann, G. & Gollmann, B. (2008) -
We describe two observations of lizards diving into small puddles with rich structure provided by live and dead vegetation, involving an adult male Lacerta agilis and a juvenile Anguis fragilis.
Golynsky, E.A. & Doronin, I.V. (2014) -
Gomes, V. & Carretero, M.A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2014) -
Gomes, V. & Carretero, M.A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2016) -
Understanding if morphological differences between organisms that occupy different environments are associated to differences in functional performance can suggest a functional link between environmental and morphological variation. In this study we examined three components of the ecomorphological paradigm e morphology, locomotor performance and habitat use e using two syntopic wall lizards endemic to the Iberian Peninsula as a case study to establish whether morphological variation is associated with habitat use and determine the potential relevance of locomotor performance for such an association. Differences in habitat use between both lizards matched patterns of morphological variation. Indeed, individuals of Podarcis guadarramae lusitanicus, which are more flattened, used more rocky environments, whereas Podarcis bocagei, which have higher heads, used more vegetation than rocks. These patterns translated into a significant association between morphology and habitat use. Nevertheless, the two species were only differentiated in some of the functional traits quantified, and locomotor performance did not exhibit an association with morphological traits. Our results suggest that the link between morphology and habitat use is mediated by refuge use, rather than locomotor performance, in this system, and advise caution when extrapolating morphology-performance-environment associations across organisms.
If morphological variation is tightly related to habitat use, then differences in morphology should affect fitness through their effect on performance within specific habitats. In this study, we investigated intraspecific ecomorphological variation in the generalist lacertid Podarcis bocagei by examining populations exploiting two different habitats: agricultural walls vs. sand dunes, which reflect saxicolous vs. ground-dwelling habits. In the laboratory, we recorded morphological traits, potentially relevant for locomotion and bite performance. We quantified locomotor performance by measuring sprint speed, climbing capacity, maneuverability, and bite force. Based on these measurements, we used univariate and multivariate statistics to examine whether lizards inhabiting the two habitat types differed in morphology and whole-organism performance, and also investigate the association between these two blocks of traits. Our results indicated that lizards from walls and dunes differed in total body size, as well as relative head height. We found significant differences in climbing speed across habitats, where the individuals from walls were better climbers. Finally, bite force was significantly different between habitats where individuals from dunes bite harder than those from walls. A significant association existed between (head) morphology and bite force, but surprisingly, we did not find a significant association between (limb) morphology and locomotor performance. Our results suggest that intraspecific studies are helpful to detect microevolutionary changes.
Gomes, V. & Carretero, M.A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2018) -
A central issue in evolutionary biology is how morphology, performance, and habitat use coevolve. If morphological variation is tightly associated with habitat use, then differences in morphology should affect fitness through their effect on performance within specific habitats. In this study, we investigate how evolutionary forces mold morphological traits and performance differently given the surrounding environment, at the intraspecific level. For this purpose, we selected populations of the lizard Podarcis bocagei from two different habitat types, agricultural walls and dunes, which we expected to reflect saxicolous vs ground-dwelling habits. In the laboratory, we recorded morphological traits as well as performance traits by measuring sprint speed, climbing capacity, maneuverability, and bite force. Our results revealed fast-evolving ecomorphological variation among populations of P. bocagei, where a direct association existed between head morphology and bite performance. However, we could not establish links between limb morphology and locomotor performance at the individual level. Lizards from walls were better climbers than those from dunes, suggesting a very fast evolutionary response. Interestingly, a significant interaction between habitat and sex was detected in climbing performance. In addition, lizards from dunes bit harder than those from walls, although sexual differentiation was definitely the main factor driving variation in head functional morphology. Taking into account all the results, we found a complex interaction between natural and sexual selection on whole-organism performance, which are, in some cases, reflected in morphological variation.
Gomes, V. & Herrel, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2020) -
Biting performance is important for feeding, territory defense, and mating in many animals. While maximal bite force is a well-studied trait, other aspects of biting and their variatio depending on behavior are rarely considered. Here, we took an innovative approach, where (1) we quantified a novel trait, bite duration in lizards; (2) we examined variation across setups that simulate feeding and antagonistic behavior; and (3) we used F-matrix statistics to investigate how different functional components are optimized for ecological and social demands with respect to individual morphology. Our results did not show differences between the sexes in bite duration, but bite performance varied across experimental setups in males, suggesting a higher functional flexibility in this sex. The investigation of form-function associations revealed that trade-offs, facilitations, and one-to-one relationships are simultaneously involved in the morphological optimization of bite force and duration. Put together, our integrated analysis of two different components of bite performance—force and duration—demonstrates their importance for males in both ecological and social tasks. Our findings also suggest the existence of trade-offs in the morphological optimization of functional components, possibly due to physiological constraints on muscle composition, insertion, and orientation.
Gomes, V. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2019) -
Form and function have always intrigued biologists, as they constitute a key element of the evolutionary history of organisms. Under the ecomorphological paradigm, differences in morphological traits result in differences in performance which in turn translate into variation in fitness in a given environment. Understanding how such evolutionary associations emerge at the microevolutionary level (i.e. across individuals of a species) and then scale up to shape macroevolutionary patterns (i.e. across species) has long been a challenge in evolutionary biology. In the Mediterranean Basin, wall lizards (Podarcis spp.) are an intriguing model system for investigating the evolutionar meaning of phenotypic traits and their relationship with performance, due to their elevated variability and their occurrence in a diversity of both natural and anthropized habitats. We examined locomotion and bite force, and severa morphological traits relevant for functional performance for several species of wall lizards. We then obtained F-matrix statistics that describe the association between form and function within (intraspecific) and across species (interspecific). We also used pairwise Mantel tests to investigate the functional divergence among species and to study whether these were in accordance with clade-level phenotype-performance relationships. Mantel tests on intraspecific F-matrices suggested some degree of functional divergence among species. Our results also showed that intra- and interspecific F-matrices provide different information, where phenotype-performance relationships often do not coincide across analytical levels. Overall, our results suggest that phenotype-performance relationships may vary substantially across species and evolutionary scales.
Gomes, V. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Gomes, V. & Zagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2013) -
Infestation by ticks affects several vertebrate groups, including reptiles. Castor bean tick Ixodes ricinus is the most widespread tick species. Here we report an impressive tick infestation of a male green lizard Lacerta viridis/bilineata found in 2012 in the vicinity of Bilpa cave in the Kolpa valley, Slovenia. Lizards as tick hosts can play an important role in the life cycle of I. ricinus and may also be potential vectors of Lyme disease
Gomes, V. & Zagar, A. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Simcic, T. & Carretero, M.A. (2022) -
Colour polymorphism may be accompanied by alternative expressions of phenotypic traits that are directly or indirectly related to fitness, and selection forces may act on the traits separately or concurrently. In polymorphic species, natural selection may act through frequency- or density dependent mechanisms and maintain polymorphism through interactions among morphs. We used an integrative approach to examine functionally relevant and interrelated life history traits in the context of colour polymorphism in the European wall lizard (Podarcis muralis). Body, head and limb morphology, bite and locomotor performance, and physiology, particularly metabolic and antioxidant capacity, were analysed in the three pure colour morphs (yellow, orange, white) and the two mosaic morphs (yellow-orange and white-orange). Morphological differences between morphs were present but subtle and consisted mainly of variations in head length. Head size and bite force were strongly associated between and within morphs. Limb and boot morphology and locomotor performance (sprinting and climbing) were variably associated among morphs. Finally, variation in biochemical indicators of cellular metabolism and antioxidant capacity appeared to be largely independent of morphology and performance. The results provide evidence for existing and non-existing relationships between colour and morphology, performance, and physiology that could have short- and long-term effects on selection.
Gómez Durán, J.M. (1977) -
Gómez Garcia, D. (2016) -
We describe the finding of a melanic common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) whithin the boundaries of Fogars de Montclús, Vallès Oriental, (Catalonia)
Gómez Ramirez, S. & González de la Vega, J.P. & Fraile Molina, A. (2018) -
The first case of melanism for western gray lizard (Psammodromus occidentalis) is described.
Gómez-Murillo, P. (2024) -
Gómez, A. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. (1993) -
Gómez, A. & Lunt, D.H. (2007) -
The Iberian Peninsula was one of the most important Pleistocene glacial refugia in Europe. A number of recent studies have documented the phylogeography of Iberian taxa and their relationship to more widely distributed species that expanded from this southern European refugium. We use a comparative approach to review the literature that challenges the paradigm of Iberia as a single refuge during Pleistocene glacial maxima and instead supports the occurrence of several Iberian refugia for a range of flora and fauna. Some patterns of phylogeographic concordance were found between the refugial areas identified by different case studies and these broadly overlapped with previously recognized areas of high endemism in the Iberian Peninsula. Such patterns help to illustrate the internal complexity of the Iberian Peninsula as a glacial refugium, and show that for many species, populations with a high degree of genetic structure have existed throughout the Pleistocene. Importantly, the occurrence of these ‘refugia within-refugia’ may confound the interpretation of phylogeographic patterns of European species, and can misleadingly support the occurrence of northern refugia. We discuss these and other consequences, especially when a limited number of samples from the southern European refugia are used.
Gómez, C. & Corrochando, L.M. & Rodriguez Barea, C. & Villamarin, A. & Mateo, J.A. (1987) -
Gomez, D. (2012) -
We describe nine new locations for Acanthodactylus erythrurus (Schinz, 1833) in Catalonia, after campaign of research on the species.
Gómez, D. & Giner, G. & Roig, J. (2012) -
We describe six new locations for Psammodromus edwardsianus (Dugès, 1829) in Catalonia, after campaign of research on the species.
Gomez, T. & Bolanos, A. & Lopez-Garcia, J.A. & Nicolau, M.C. & Rial, R.V. (1990) -
1. In the search for properties of the Kindling effect in the lizard Gallotia galloti and after testing about 400 animals, one of them produced a very high density of recurrent electrographic seizures without previous application of any epileptogenic treatment.2. Ten percent of the recorded time (four days, continuous recording) was spent in seizures of variable morphology.3. Oral administration of 3 mg/kg of diphenylhydantoin every 24 h completely abolished the seizures.
Gomez, T. & Lorenzo, A. & Giraldez, F. (1989) -
Gomez, T. & Rial, R. & Bolanos, A. & Molina, M. (1988) -
1.Lizards Gallotiu galloti received daily 3 mg/kg body wt of diphenylhidantoin (DPH) over a period of 15 days and at the same time the animals were kindled. 2. The progression of the kindling effect was evaluated by counting the number of spontaneous epileptiforrn potentials, the duration of afterdischarges and the duration of electroencephalographic spontaneous seizures. 3. The diphenylhidantoin treated group, relative to controls presented: (a) significant reduction in the duration of afterdischarges and spontaneous electroencephalographic seizures; and (b) increased frequency of the spontaneous epileptiform potentials.
Gonalez-Suarez, M. & Mugabo, M. & Decenciere, B. & Perret, S. & Claesen, D. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2011) -
1. Understanding proximate determinants of predation rates is a central question in ecology. Studies often use functional response (density dependent) or allometric (mass dependent) models but approaches that consider multiple factors are critical to capture the complexity in predator–prey interactions. We present a novel comprehensive approach to understand predation rates based on field data obtained from a vertebrate predator. 2. Estimates of food consumption and prey abundance were obtained from 21 semi-natural populations of the lizard Zootoca vivipara. We identified the most parsimonious feeding rate function exploring allometric, simple functional response and allometric functional response models. Each group included effects of sex and weather conditions. 3. Allometric models reveal the importance of predator mass and sex: larger females have the highest natural feeding rates. Functional response models show that the effect of prey density is best represented by a Holling type II response model with a mass, sex and weather dependent attack rate and a constant handling time. However, the best functional response model only received moderate support compared to simpler allometric models based only on predator mass and sex. 4. Despite this limited effect of prey densities on feeding rates, we detected a significant negative relationship between an index of preferred prey biomass and lizard density. 5. Functional response models that ignore individual variation are likely to misrepresent trophic interactions. However, simpler models based on individual traits may be best supported by some data than complex allometric functional responses. These results illustrate the importance of considering individual, population and environmental effects while also exploring simple models.
Gonçalves, D.V. & Álvares, F. & Brito, J.C. (2013) -
Se aportan los resultados herpetológicos de una expedición científica realizada en abril-mayo de 2012 al sur de Niger, una remota zona que incluye la Reserva Natural de Termit & Tin Toumma. Se observaron 27 especies de reptiles y tres de anfibios. Debido al elevado des- conocimiento herpetológico de la región, muchas de las nuevas citas aumentan o cubren gran- des vacios en la distribución de las especies halladas.
Goncharov, A.G. (2013) -
Гончаров, А.Г. (2013) -
Results of research of the diet of steppe runner (Eremias ar- guta) on the north of the area, in the Khopyor State Nature Re- serve (Voronezh Province, Novokhopersk District), are pre- sented. The analysis of the obtained data and their comparison with results of other researchers is carried out. The basis of the diet of steppe runner in the Khopyor Reserve is made by insects – hymenopterans and bugs.
Представлены результаты исследования питания разноцветной ящурки (Eremias arguta) на севере ареала – в Хо- перском государственном природном заповеднике (Воронежская область, Новохоперский район). Проводится анализ полученных данных и их сравнение с результатами других исследователей. Основу питания разноцвет- ной ящурки в Хоперском заповеднике составляют насекомые – перепончатокрылые и жесткокрылые.
Goncharov, A.G. (2016) -
Гончаров, А.Г. (2016) -
Goncharov, A.G. (2019) -
Background.The Central Black-Earth region is an extensive territory with vari-ous physiographic conditions where the distribution and morphology of the steppe-runner are studied rather incompletely. And in particular, when carrying out this re-search our goal was to specify the habitat of the steppe-runner within the Central Black-Earth region and to study the features of external morphology of this species. Materials and methods. The research was conducted during field seasons of 2007–2017 in the territory of two regions of the Central Black-Earth region – Belgo-rod region and Voronezh region. For studying of external morphological features 28 individuals of the steppe-runner from two localities of Voronezh region were used. In the analysis of variability of proportions of a body and a pholidosis 17 signs were considered. The statistical analysis was carried out by means of the Statistica 10.0 program. Results and conclusions. As a result of the conducted research it has been estab-lished that the distribution of the steppe-runner within the Central Black-Earth re-gion coincides with sands of pine-forest terraces of the rivers. The northern border of the species’ habitat in the explored territory passes across Belgorod and Voronezh regions between 50 and 52° n.l. In the analysis of the quantitative and qualitative signs of the steppe-runner was found out that males authentically differ from fe-males in the tail length and the body-tail length ratio. When comparing with east and southern populations, the steppe-runners studied by us have rather smaller sizes of the tail and a smaller number of femoral pores.
Goncharov, A.G. & Lada, G.A. (2021) -
Gong, D.J. & Li, C.I. & Yao, C.Y. (1992) -
Gong, D.J. & Zhou, K. (2000) -
Gong, X. & Liu, J. & Zhou, T. & Song, Q. & Guo, X. (2018) -
The steppe racerunner (Eremias arguta) is one of the most widespread species of the Eurasian racerunners (genus Eremias), inhabiting steppes and semi-deserts of eastern Europe and central Asia from Romania to Mongolia and western China. Historically, 6 subspecies are recognized, and with 2 subspecies occurring in China; however, the taxonomical status of some subspecies is still controversial due in part to their high morphological variability. The present study deals with the intraspecies systematics of 28 samples representing 4 populations in Bole city and Ili River Valley, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China, through morphological comparison and phylogenetic analysis based on mitochondrial DNA cytochrome b (Cyt b) gene. Cyt b gene sequences of E. arguta available in the GenBank were compiled for comparison with the obtained haplotypes. Tree-based subspecies delimitation was achieved by using maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses. Bayes factors (BF) were used to test the competing hypotheses for E. arguta by comparing the unconstrained Bayesian tree topology to Bayesian trees with `hard` constraints. The morphological features of steppe racerunner population in Bole city matched the description of those from the Ili River Valley, with specific dorsal pattern characterized by the presence of bright blue or green ocelli in breeding males. Phylogenetic trees congruently indicated that the haplotypes from Bole city belong to the Ili River Valley clade, which represents a separate lineage with undescribed subspecies (E. arguta ssp.). The 3 hypotheses that populations from the Ili River Valley belong to the subspecies E. a. arguta, or E. a. potanini, or E. a. uzbekistanica were rejected with very strong evidence (2lnBF>10), respectively. The Ili River Valley clade is most likely the sister taxon to E. a. uzbekistanica and E. a. darevskii; meanwhile, there is no reliable evidence to reject the alternative hypothesis that E. arguta ssp.is sister to the remaining lineages of E. a. arguta (2 < 2lnBF < 6). In addition, the reciprocal monophyly of E. a. potanini and E. a. arguta was recovered albeit with low bootstrap values and moderate Bayesian posterior probabilities. An alternative topology with samples of E. a. potanini nested within the E. a. arguta clade was not rejected with very strong evidence (6 < 2lnBF < 10). In conclusion, our results demonstrate that:(i) the steppe racerunner in Bole city is not E. a. potanini, but belongs to the Ili River Valley clade and thus represents a new record of E. arguta ssp. in Junggar Basin, Xinjiang, China; (ii) the populations from the Ili River Valley should not be classified as E. a. arguta or E. a. potanini or E. a. uzbekistanica, but belong to a cryptic clade (an undescribed subspecies); (iii) the phylogenetic placement of the novel clade (subspecies) is unclear and needing further clarification with integrative taxonomic approach. Finally, in combination with morphological variability, the validity of the E. a. potanini subspecies was discussed.
Gonzales, J. & Vera Porcell, L. de (1986) -
1. The Canary Island lizard Gallotia galloti, tested in still air between 5 and 35°C, heated faster than it cooled. The ratio between heating and cooling thermal time constants shows no dependence on body weight and its value was 0.50 on average. 2. Regression equations for the relationship between the thermal time constant (τ) and body weight (W) during heating (h) and cooling (c) are: 3. During heating the core and subcutaneous body regions heat at the same rate, while during cooling the core cools more slowly than the subcutaneous area. 4. Heart activity differences during heating and cooling were restricted at body temperature range 7–20°C. The increased heart activity during heating appears to be a physiologically controlled response, as opposed to the decreased heart activity during cooling, which appears to be a passive response.
Gonzáles, P. & Pinto, F. & Nogales, M. & Jiménez-Asensio, J. & Hernández, M. & Cabrera, V.M. (1996) -
Phylogenetic relationships among species and subspecies of the Canary Island endemic lizard genus Gallotia are inferred base on nucleotide sequence of fragments of 12S ribosomal RNA and cytochrome b mitochondrial genes. The four morphologically established species have also been recognized at the molecular level. Relative affinities among species follow an eatsern-western geographic transect. The nearly extinct species Galloti simonyi from the most western island of El Hierro is closely related to the common western species Gallotia galloti. The nearest branch to this pair is Gallotia stehlini from the central island of Gran Canaria, and finally, Gallotia atlantica from the two eastern and geologically oldest islands appears as the most distantly related species of the group. At the statistical level, four subspecies can be recognized in G. galloti, but only two in G. atlantica.
González de la Vega, J.P. (2012) -
Gonzalez de la Vega, J.P. & Gonzalez-Garcia, J.P. & Garcia-Pulido, T. & Gonzalez-Garcia, G. (2001) -
González de la Vega, J.P. & Pérez Quintero, J.C. (2001) -
González de la Vega, J.P. & Pérez-Quintero, C. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2001) -
Gonzalez G-Granda, L. (2014) -
Gonzalez Gonzalez, J. & Vera Porcell, L. (1988) -
1. The Canary Island lizard Gallotia galloti, tested in still air between 5 and 35”C, heated faster than it cooled. The ratio between heating and cooling thermal time constants shows no dependence on body weight and its value was 0.50 on average. 2. Regression equations for the relationship between the thermal time constant (t) and body weight (W) during heating (h) and cooling (c) are: Tb= 1.74 W056 Tc = 2.42 W066. 3. During heating the core and subcutaneous body regions heat at the same rate, while during cooling the core cools more sfowly than the subcutaneous area. 4. Heart activity differences during heating and cooling were restricted at body temperature range 7-20°C. The increased heart activity during heating appears to be a physioIogicaIly controlled response, as opposed to the decreased heart activity during cooling, which appears to be a passive response.
Gonzalez Gonzalez, J. & Vera Porcell, L. de (1988) -
González Mantilla, M.X. (2011) -
González-Castro, A. & Siverio, F. (2024) -
Oceanic islands are places where biological assemblages are relatively simple, as compared to the mainland. On islands, however, pollinator assemblages may to be composed of a taxonomically disparate group of organisms (e.g. insects, lizards, and birds), some of them with opportunistic nectar-feeding behaviour. Here we investigated some components of pollination effectiveness of Lotus maculatus (Fabaceae), an endangered Canary Islands endemic. In a flower exclusion experiment, we bagged flowers and compared their subsequent fruit and seed set to that of control flowers. Number of interactions with vertebrate and invertebrate flower visitors was counted and it was recorded whether interactions were legitimate (potentially pollinating) or non-legitimate (nectar robbing). Additionally, we estimated pollen loads on lizards and looked for any relationship between reproductive success of individual plants and number of visits made by the top three flower-visiting species (in terms of both frequency of occurrence at censuses and number of floral visits). Bagged flowers fruited less and with fewer seeds than control flowers. The only observed flower-visiting vertebrate was the Tenerife lizard Gallotia galloti, whose interactions were always legitimate and with around a half of captured individuals carrying pollen grains. The most frequent flower-visiting insect was the honeybee Apis mellifera followed by the solitary bee Lasioglossum arctifrons. The honeybee, however, was only a nectar robber, and the solitary bee was not an effective pollinator, but rather a pollen gatherer. Fruit set by individual plants was positively related only to frequency of visits by the lizard. Thus, the lizard seems to play a key role in the conservation management of L. maculatus.
González-González, J. & Molina-Borja, M. (1991) -
1.1. The heart rate and motor activity of lizards (Gallotia galloti) maintained in a light-dark cycle (12:12 hr) and with changing cyclic temperature were recorded. Both variables showed a circadian pattern, motor activity variations leading heart rate by approximately 110 min.2.2. Results from cross spectral analysis showed that heart rate was highly correlated with temperature and both variables were changing practically in phase. However, motor activity and temperature were less correlated and in this case motor activity led temperature by approximately 100 min.3.3. In the ultradian range, two periodicities could be distinguished in the power spectra of motor activity and heart rate variations during the day: one between 0.019 and 3.9 × 10−3 cycles/min (central peak around 85 min period) and another, of lower power, between 0.05 and 0.02 cycles/min (central peak around 34 min period). During the night, only the heart rate showed both periodicities but with a lower amplitude.4.4. The presence of ultradian oscillations in heart rate during the night suggested that they do not depend on motor activity which was almost absent during that daily period.5.5. Motor activity and heart rate were also highly correlated in the ultradian range, motor activity leading heart rate by around 5 min at the 85 min main peak.
González-Ortega, C. & Mesa-Avila, G. & Suárez-Rancel, M. & RodrigueDominguez, A. & Molina-Borja, M.z (2021) -
Due to increasing number of animal species in danger of extinction, captive breeding of individuals has become a necessary procedure for many recovery programs. As specimens born and raised in captivity during several generations may not develop some behavioral and performance aptitudes properly, several types of training are useful to apply before releasing them into the wild. We present here the results of experiments aiming to detect the effect of daily running trials in young males of the endangered lizard (Gallotia simonyi) from El Hierro (Canary Islands). We made individuals run in a racetrack twice every day, for five days a week between the end of July and the end of September. We filmed all running trials and calculated running speed for each individual dividing the distance run by the time used. Running speed did not correlate with body condition of the lizards but there was variation in running speeds of some individuals with similar body conditions. Running speed of lizards used in the experiments significantly increased along the whole trial period. By contrast, mean running speed did not change significantly in a control group, participating twice in running trials, one at the beginning and the other at the end of the experimental period. From these results we suggest that locomotor training contributed to increasing final running speeds of experimental lizards.
González-Ortega, C. & Rodriguez Doninguez, M.Á. & Bohórquez Alonso, M.L. & Molina Borja, M. (2005) -
González-Suárez, M. & Galliard, J.-F. le & Claessen, D. (2011) -
The consequences of within-cohort (i.e., among-individual) variation for population dynamics are poorly understood, in particular for the case where life history is density dependent. We develop a physiologically structured population model that incorporates individual variation among and within cohorts and allows us to explore the intertwined relationship between individual life history and population dynamics. Our model is parameterized for the lizard Zootoca vivipara and reproduces well the species’ dynamics and life history. We explore two common mechanisms that generate within-cohort variation: variability in food intake and variability in birth date. Predicted population dynamics are inherently very stable and do not qualitatively change when either of these sources of individual variation is introduced. However, increased within-cohort variation in food intake leads to changes in morphology, with longer but skinnier individuals, even though mean food intake does not change. Morphological changes result from a seemingly universal nonlinear relationship between growth and resource availability but may become apparent only in environments with strongly fluctuating resources. Overall, our results highlight the importance of using a mechanistic framework to gain insights into how different sources of intraspecific variability translate into life-history and populationdynamic changes.
Gonzalez, E.G. & Cerón-Souza, I. & Mateo, J.A. & Zardoya, R. (2014) -
Background: The giant lizard of La Gomera (Gallotia bravoana), is an endemic lacertid of this Canary Island that lives confined to a very restricted area of occupancy in a steep cliff, and is catalogued as Critically Endangered by IUCN. We present the first population genetic analysis of the wild population as well as of captive-born individuals (for which paternity data are available) from a recovery center. Current genetic variability, and inferred past demographic changes were determined in order to discern the relative contribution of natural versus human-mediated effects on the observed decline in population size. Results: Genetic analyses indicate that the only known natural population of the species shows low genetic diversity and acts as a single evolutionary unit. Demographic analyses inferred a prolonged decline of the species for at least 230 generations. Depending on the assumed generation time, the onset of the decline was dated between 1200–13000 years ago. Pedigree analyses of captive individuals suggest that reproductive behavior of the giant lizard of La Gomera may include polyandry, multiple paternity and female long-term sperm retention. Conclusions: The current low genetic diversity of G. bravoana is the result of a long-term gradual decline. Because generation time is unknown in this lizard and estimates had large credibility intervals, it is not possible to determine the relative contribution of humans in the collapse of the population. Shorter generation times would favor a stronger influence of human pressure whereas longer generation times would favor a climate-induced origin of the decline. In any case, our analyses show that the wild population has survived for a long period of time with low levels of genetic diversity and a small effective population size. Reproductive behavior may have acted as an important inbreeding avoidance mechanism allowing the species to elude extinction. Overall, our results suggest that the species retains its adaptive potential and could restore its ancient genetic diversity under favorable conditions. Therefore, management of the giant lizard of La Gomera should concentrate efforts on enhancing population growth rates through captive breeding of the species as well as on restoring the carrying capacity of its natural habitat.
Gonzalez, J. & Gamundi, A. & Rial, R. & Nicolau, M.C. & Vera, L. de & Pereda, E. (1999) -
Electroencephalogram (EEG) from dorsal cortex of lizard Gallotia galloti was analyzed at different temperatures to test the presence of fractal or nonlinear structure during open (OE) and closed eyes (CE), with the aim of comparing these results with those reported for human slow-wave sleep (SWS). Two nonlinear parameters characterizing EEG complexity [correlation dimension (D2)] and predictability [largest Lyapunov exponent (l1)] were calculated, and EEG spectrum and fractal exponent b were determined via coarse graining spectral analysis. At 25°C, evidence of nonlinear structure was obtained by the surrogate data test, with EEG phase space structure suggesting the presence of deterministic chaos (D2 ,6, l1 ,1.5). Both nonlinear parameters were greater in OE than in CE and for the right hemisphere in both situations. At 35°C the evidence of nonlinearity was not conclusive and differences between states disappeared, whereas interhemispheric differences remained for l1. Harmonic power always increased with temperature within the band 8–30 Hz, but only with OE within the band 0.3–7.5 Hz. Qualitative similarities found between lizard and human SWS EEG support the hypothesis that reptilian waking could evolve into mammalian SWS.
González, J.A. & Vallejo, J.R. (2017) -
González, J.A.P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1989) -
Goose, V. & Bels, V.L. (1990) -
Goose, V. & Bels, V.L. (1992) -
High-speed cinematography (100 framesls) was used to allow quantitative analysis of the kinematic profiles of tongue and jaw displacements during chemosensory activities in the scleroglossan lizard Lacerta viridis. The types of tongue flicking were simple downward extensions (SDE), single oscillations (SOC), and submultiple oscillations (SMOC) of the tongue out of the mouth. The SMOC type involves a downward or upward movement of the tongue performed before a typical oscillation and it is therefore suggested that this is an intermediate category of flick between the typical SOC and MOC of lizards. Closing and opening of the mouth in SDE, SOC, and SMOC cycles may or may not be separated by a stationary stage during which the jaws are held open at a constant gape. The duration of this stationary interval increases from SDE to SMOC. Gape cycles do not show any division into slow and fast stages. The gape is produced largely by depression of the lower jaw; the upper jaw is slightly elevated by protrusion of the tongue. Patterns of correlation of kinematic variables depicting jaw and tongue movements differed between SDE, SOC, and SMOC. A principal component analysis shows that the three flick types overlap in a multivariate space constructed from the kinematic variables depicting jaw and tongue displacements. Overlap between SOC and SMOC categories is greater than that between SOC, SMOC, and SDE categories. The kinematic patterns of tongue displacement during SMOC in Lacerta viridis show similarities with those of MOC in other lizards and in snakes. Kinematically, the pattern of jaw and tongue displacements of Lacerta viridis during chemosensory activities shows similarities with those that occur during drinking and prey capture.
Goose, V. & Castanet, J. (1989) -
Göppner, A.W. (1933) -
Gorbacheff, Z.A. (1934) -
Gordeev, D.A. (2017) -
The tail regeneration frequency in 55 lizards from the Volgograd region was analyzed, among which were 12 steppe-runners (Eremias arguta (Pallas, 1773)) and 43 sand lizards (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758). The following cases of tail regenerates were observed: 0) a normal tail; 1) regeneration in the distal third; 2) a tail regenerated from the middle part; and 3) autotomy near the base (the proximal third). The majority of the lizards had normal tails (60.0% of E. arguta and 83.2/57.1% of L. agilis in females/males). Only 16.7% of the steppe-runners had regenerated tails in the distal part whereas 8.4% of females and 28.6% of males had autotomy with subsequent regeneration in the proximal third of the tail; 5.6% of females and 14.3% of males had regenerated autotomy in the distal part, and 2.8% of females had it in the middle part of the tail. Two lizards with bifurcated tails were found and described: a male of E. arguta and a female of L. agilis. A case of complicated abnormality of tail regeneration in a male of L. agilis is also described. An X-ray study has shown that caudal bifurcation may appear as a result of both the primary and secondary (in the cartilage tube) regeneration.
Гордеев Д.А. (2017) -
Приводится анализ частоты регенерации хвоста у 55 ящериц, из которых 12 особей разноцветной ящурки (Eremias arguta (Pallas, 1773)) и 43 - прыткой ящерицы (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758) из Волгоградской области. Наблюдались следующие случаи наличия регенератов хвоста: 0) нормальный хвост; 1) регенерация в дистальной трети; 2) хвост регенерирован из середины хвоста; 3) автотомия вблизи основания (проксимальной трети). Большинство ящериц имело нормальные хвосты (60.0% E. arguta и 83.2/57.1% L. agilis самки/самцы). Лишь 16.7% особей разноцветной ящурки были с регенерированными хвостами в дистальной его части, тогда как у 8.4% самок и 28.6% самцов произошла автотомия с последующей регенерацией в проксимальной трети хвоста; у 5.6% самок и 14.3% самцов - в дистальной части и у 2.8% самок посередине хвоста. Выявлено и описано две особи с бифуркацией хвоста: один самец E. arguta и одна самка L. agilis. Также описан случай сложного нарушения регенерации хвоста у самца L. agilis. Рентгенографическое исследование показало, что каудальная бифуркация может возникать как результат первичной, так и вторичной (на хрящевой трубке) регенерации.
Gordeev, D.A. & Korost, D.V. & Ananjeva, N.B. (2021) -
Currently, more than 58 skeletal anomalies and pathologies are known in the recent Squamata reptiles. In this paper, eight pathologies of a complex nature are described in Agamidae and Lacertidae: Paralaudakia caucasia (Eichwald, 1831) and Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758. Description of tail pathologies was carried out based on the analysis of X-ray images and on the results of computer microtomography. In the specimen of P. caucasia (ЗИН 19116.1) complete ablation of the caudal vertebra was revealed, which provoked the detachment of chevron and the proliferation of soft tissues. In some Agamidae, after pseudoautotomy, partial ablation of the caudal vertebra occurs to promote wound healing. Complete ablation of the distal caudal vertebra has not been previously re- ported in literature. In females of L. agilis, deformation of the right transverse process of the vertebra with “false bifurcation” without the formation of a cartilaginous tube (VOLSU 98.2), scoliosis, hematoma and callus on the cartilaginous tube were noted, as well as the absence of an autotomy plane in the postpygal vertebra (ZIN 31549). An unusual pathology in L. agilis (ZIN 31549) is the absence of an autotomy plane in the postpigal vertebra and of its anterior neural spine. The loss of the plane of autotomy during ontogeny is characteristic of some Iguanidae, but it has not been previously noted in Lacertidae. The described cases of anomalies expand the spectrum of known pathologies in reptiles.
Д.А. Гордеев & Д.В. Корост & Н.Б. Ананьева (2021) -
настоящее время известно более 58 скелетных аномалий и патологий у современных чешуйчатых пресмыкающихся. В работе описаны 8 патологий у агамовых (Agamidae) и настоящих (Lacertidae) ящериц: кавказской агамы – Paralaudakia caucasia (Eichwald, 1831) и прыткой ящерицы – Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758, имеющих комплексный характер. Описание патологий хвостов проводили на основе анализа рентгеновских снимков и результатов компьютерной микротомографии. У экземпляра P. cau- casia (ЗИН 19116.1) выявлена полная аблация хвостового позвонка, спровоцировавшая отрыв нижнего остистого отростка и разрастание мягких тканей. У некоторых Agamidae после псевдоавтотомии про- исходит частичная аблация хвоствого позвонка, способствующая заживлению раны. Полная аблация ставшего дистальным хвостового позвонка ранее в литературе не отмечали. У самок L. agilis отмечены деформация правого поперечного отростка позвонка с «ложной бифуркацией» без образования хря- щевой трубки (VOLSU 98.2), сколиоз, гематома и костная мозоль на хрящевой трубке (ЗИН 31549). Необычной патологией у экземпляра L. agilis (ЗИН 31549) является отсутствие плоскости автотомии в постпигальном позвонке и его переднего неврального отростка. Утрата плоскости автотомии в он- тогенезе характерна для некоторых Iguanidae, но ранее не отмечалась у Lacertidae. Описанные случаи аномалий расширяют спектр известных патологий рептилий.
Gordeev, D.A. & Prilipko, S.K. & Prilipko, N.I. (2014) -
There is the contemporary data on distribution, biotopical, biology of sand lizard in the Volgograd region. The nature of variability of a number of morphological characters considered, geographical aspects of variability are shown. The lizards of study area are a little bit bigger in comparison with individuals of the Saratov region and Kalmyk Republic populations, but have a less range of variation and the average number of abdo-minal scutes.
Гордеев, Д.А. & Прилипко, С.К. & Прилипко, Н.И. (2014) -
Приводятся современные сведения о распространении, биотопической приуроченности, биологии прыткой ящери- цы на территории Волгоградской области. Рассмотрен характер изменчивости ряда морфологических признаков, показаны географические аспекты изменчивости. Ящерицы исследуемой территории несколько крупнее в сравне- нии с особями популяций Саратовской области и Республики Калмыкия, но имеют меньший размах колебаний и среднее количество брюшных щитков.
Gorelov, M.S. (1991) -
Gorelov, M.S. (1995) -
Gorelov, R.A. & Bakiev, A.G. (2009) -
The data on species structure of lizards of Hvalynsky forest (Hvalynsky dis trict, Saratov region), Krasnosamarsky forest (Kinelsky district, Samara region), the Buzuluksky pine forest (Borsky district of the Samara region and Buzuluksky district of the Orenburg region) are presented.
Gorman, G.C. (1969) -
Karyotype data are presented for 12 species of lacertid lizards. Of these, 4 Acanthodactylus, 2 Eremias, 1 Ophisops, and 4 Lacerta have n = 19, with all chromosomes acrocentric. This is the typical lacertid karyotype, as reported in previous literature. One species, Lacerta parva, is quite different from all the others. The haploid number is 12, consisting of 7 pairs of metacentric macrochromosomes and 5 pairs of microchromosomes. The fundamental number (number of arms in the karyotype) is the same in L. parva as in all the other species studied. The possibility of female sex chromosomal heteromorphism is raised, but data are not sufficient to confirm this.
Gorman, G.C. & Jovanović, V. & Nevo, E. & McCollum, F.C. (1970) -
Lizards belonging to the species Lacerta sicula, L. oxycerihala, and L. mellisellensis from numerous Adriatic Islands and from adjacent mainland populations show no variation in karyotype. All are characterized by the diploid number 2n - 3S consisting of 36 acrocentric macrochromosomes and 2 acroce trie microchromosomes.
U cilju dobijanja karioloških podataka koji bi mogli da predstavljaju važnu informaciju za sistematiku i evoluciju izvršena je uporedna analiza kariotipova guštera iz više populacija sa jadranskih ostrva koje su pripadale vrstama Lacerla mellisellensis, L. sicula i L. oxycephala. Uprkos velikoj morfološkoj varijabilnosti koje prva i druga od navedenih vrsta pokazuju, nisu utvrđene nikakve kariološke razlike, kako među različitim populacijama iste vrste, tako ni među različitim vrstama. Naime, sve tri vrste imaju identičan kariotip sastavljen od 2n = 38 hromozoma od kojih su svi, uključujući i jedan par mikrohromozoma, akrocentrični. Ovakav kariotip je inače karakterističan i za skoro sve ostale vrste roda Lacerta koje su do sada kariološki obrađene sto ukazuje da su u evoluciji ovoga roda glavnu ulogu igrale genske mutacije, a ne krupnije promene u organizaciji hromozomskog komplementa.
Gorman, G.C. & Soulé, M. & Yang, S.Y. & Nevo, E. (1975) -
Twenty populations of Lacerta sicula, L. melisellensis, and L. oxycephala from the coast and islands of the Adriatic were studied electrophoretically. Genetic similarity measured by the Rogers coefficient (Rogers, 1972) ranges from 0.84-1.0 among populations of melisellensis, and from 0.88-0.99 among populations of sicula. Interspecific values range from 0.61-0.74 in this pair, and both have values of about 0.43 compared to oxycephala. There is circumstantial evidence for hybridization and introgression in one population. Among Lacerta, amounts of genetic variation are greater in (1) mainland populations than in putatively relict island populations, and (2) on large islands than on small islands. Some fringing islands that are separated by a short linear distance and shallow channel depth from the parent island show a `small island effect,` i.e., a precipitous drop in variation compared with the mother island but only if these fringing islands are tiny ($acksimeq leqslant$ 0.01 sq. km). Genetic drift is implicated. Larger fringing islands do not show an area effect and are genetically virtually identical to the parent island. An analysis of allele frequencies in populations on different islands suggests that most of the polymorphisms are being selected, but that some (e.g., esterases) have a pattern consistent with the neutraldrift hypothesis. Stepwise multiple regression was used to analyze the geographic correlates of mean heterozygosity. The results, like those of a previous study of island lizards, are consistent with the predictions of the time-divergence theory of variation, but do not allow firm conclusions. The theory predicts that the smaller (more ecologically distinct) and the older an island, the lower the heterozygosity in its population. It is argued that directional selection is the main force eroding genetic variation; the smaller an island, the more directional selection will prevail over stabilizing selection; the older an island, the longer such selection has operated. Very small islands, where genetic drift appears to reduce variability, were excluded from most of the regression studies.
Gory,G. (1995) -
Gosá, A (1988) -
Gosá, A. (1985) -
Gosa, A. (1987) -
Gosá, A. (1987) -
La observación de ejemplares de P. muralis y P. hispanica en la línea de costa que contacta con el mar, ha permitido obtener información más amplia sobre su distribución en el área septentrional más extrema, así como del di- ferente uso que hacen del nicho espacial. Ambas se revelan, una vez más, como especies antropófilas, apareciendo preferentemente P. muralis sobre acantilados de sustrato calizo y suelo cubierto de vegetación, frente a P. his- panica, que prefiere el sustrato areniscoso y suelos más despejados. Los datos conocidos sobre su distribución, junto con los aquí aportados, permiten esbozar un esquema biogeográfico, en el que lo más destacable se- ría la penetración que, a través de ciertos valles térmicos interiores, ha se- guido P. hispanica -junto con otras formas termófilas de la herpetofauna- , para colonizar el área costera, donde la suavidad de las condiciones climáti- cas ha facilitado su asentamiento.
Gosá, A. (2009) -
Gosá, A. & GArin-Barrio, I. & Fernández, A. & Cabido, C. (2018) -
Los datos de lagarto verdinegro recopilados en el Parque Natural de Gorbeia en la década de 2010 determinan una distribución escasa de la especie y limitada a áreas dispersas del término de Zuia, entre Altube y la cabecera del Baias. Las observaciones han sido siempre puntuales y accidentales, y no se conoce una población consolidada y mucho menos continua, si bien se ha observado tanto adultos como juveniles, siempre registrados entre mayo y julio. En 2018 se realizó una prospección intensiva, contando con algunos datos acumulados entre 2013 y 2014, procedentes de la base de datos de la guardería del Parque, que han sido contabilizados junto a los obtenidos en 2018. Los resultados confirman la escasez de la especie y su presencia exclusiva y dispersa en la mitad occidental del Parque (término de Zuia), habiéndose obtenido únicamente observaciones puntuales e individuales. En la zona de Katxabaso-Astorre pudo realizarse un transecto en borde de camino que transita entre argomales-brezales-helechales, con detección de un ejemplar por observación directa y de otros cinco asignables con alta fiabilidad a la especie, lo que proporcionó una estimación de abundancia de 28,85 ind / ha, asimilable a la de algunas poblaciones del norte de León. Paralelamente se acumularon datos de lagarto verde occidental, que mostraron el desplazamiento que estaría ejerciendo sobre el verdinegro, tanto por el mayor número de ejemplares observados y su amplia distribución como por la intensidad ejercida en el uso del hábitat, si bien comparte con éste las orillas de algunas regatas y los matorrales, y aparece en una franja altitudinal común, en torno a los 700 m.
Gosá, A. & Garin-Barrio, I. & Sanz-Azkue, I. & Cabido, C. (2015) -
Gosá, A. & Iglesias-Carrasco, M. (2013) -
Gosa, A. & Jover, L.I. & Bea, A. (1986) -
Contribution to the taxonomy of Podarcis muralis (Laurenti) and Podarcis hispanica Steindachner in the Iberian Peninsula (Basque Land and Central Mountain Chain). This study is based in the analysis of 23 biometric and pholidosis parameters of two species of Podarcis: P. muralis and P. hispanica. The total number of individuals are 635 coming from the Basque Land and the Central Mountain Chain at the Iberian Peninsula. A descriptive statistics including the mean on total samples and the means belonging to all areas in which we have divided the territory (Central Mountain Chain and the Atlantic and Mediterranean Basque Land regions) contributes to species characterization. We complete their differentiation and separation by means of the Discriminant Analysis method, in two different ways: I.- A specifical discriminant function, without sex distinction. It selects the following variables in order of importance: HC/LP. SC, GU and (V x 100)ILCC. The Podarcis muralis function is: -349.0405+ (770.8815 x HC/LP) + (12.23027 x SC) + (6.050357 X GU) + (1.419067 x (V x 100)/LCC), and the Podarcis hispanica function is: - 343.9303+ (726.6817 x HC/LP) + (11.07793 x SC) + (6.708487 x GU) + (1.645612 x (V x 100)/LCC). The percentage of correctly classificated cases is of 87.13 %. II.- Some specific discriminant functions, separatly by sexes. The analysis selects the following same variables for both sexes: HC, V and PA for females, and V, HC and PA for males. Respectively, the classification percentages are of 98.61% and 94.38%.
Gosá, A. & Rubio, X. (2013) -
Gosá, A. & Sanz-Azkue, I. & Carretero, M.A. (2023) -
Gossweiler, W.A. (1975) -
Götz, G.F. (1784) -
Govier, B. (2017) -
Anthropogenic activities are threatening global biodiversity and resulting in the need for conservation interventions. Comprehensive assessment of these interventions is often hindered by a lack of understanding of the focal species’ behaviour. This study used sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) as a model species to investigate behavioural variation within a single population and determine the requirements for reintroduction success and population stability. This was achieved by profiling individual behaviour, social dynamics and fitness through behavioural observations and measurements of morphological traits and locomotor performance. The study found marked behavioural variation within the captive population, indicating that individuals within the group consistently differed in their behaviour. Contrary to predictions, morphological traits had minimal influence on the behaviour and locomotor performance of sand lizards. Therefore, individual success and survival cannot be attributed to phenotypic variance in physical characteristics alone, but rather due to a complex interaction between an individual’s personality, genetics and the environmental context. Maintenance of behavioural variation within captive and wild populations is vital to reintroduction success. Behavioural variation ensures population resilience and persistence through the ‘portfolio’ and ‘insurance’ effects that increase a population’s adaptability to changing environments. Overall, this study highlights the importance of integrating behavioural ecology with conservation biology when conducting and assessing conservation interventions. Further studies are required to assess the long-term consequences of personality in sand lizards to expand current knowledge of the drivers of individual reintroduction success.
Gow, C.E. (1962) -
Goyens, J. (2018) -
Goyens, J. & Aerts, P. (2018) -
The cyclic patterns of terrestrial animal locomotion are frequently perturbed in natural environments. The terrain can be complex or inclined, the substrate can move unexpectedly and animals can misjudge situations. Loosing stability due to perturbations increases the probability of capture by predators and decreases the chance of successful prey capture and winning intraspecific battles. When controlled corrective actions are necessary to negotiate perturbations, animals rely on their exteroceptive and proprioceptive senses to monitor the environment and their own body movements. The vestibular system in the inner ear perceives linear and angular accelerations. This information enables gaze stabilisation and the creation of a stable, world-bound reference frame for the integration of the information of other senses. During locomotion, both functions are known to be facilitated by head stabilisation in several animals with an erect posture. Animals with a sprawled body posture, however, undergo very large body undulations while running. Using high speed video recordings, we tested whether they nevertheless stabilise their head during running, and how this is influenced by perturbations. We found that running Acanthodactylus boskianus lizards strongly stabilise their head yaw rotations when running on a flat, straight runway: the head rotation amplitude is only 4.76 ± 0.99, while the adjacent trunk part rotates over 27.0 ± 3.8. Lateral head translations are not stabilised (average amplitude of 7.4 ± 2.0 mm). When the lizards are experimentally perturbed by a large and unexpected lateral substrate movement, lateral translations of both the head and the body decrease (on average by 1.52 ± 0.81 mm). At the same time, the rotations of the head and trunk also decrease (on average by 1.62 ± 7.21). These results show that head stabilisation intensifies because of the perturbation, which emphasises the importance of vestibular perception and balance in these fast and manoeuvrable animals.
Goyens, J. & Jorissen, C. & Mancini, L. (2021) -
Running inevitably causes the animal trunk to undulate. The consequential head rotations have to be stabilised in space for a steady gaze and an accurate sense of self-motion for balance. The ecology and anatomy of the species determine the necessity to stabilise the head in yaw, pitch, and roll direction. Terrestrial lizards, running with a sprawled body posture, are especially prone to undulations in the horizontal (yaw) plane. Measurements on an experimental oscillation platform show that Acanthodactylus pardalis lizards stabilise their head less in pitch direction (54% stabilisation) than in yaw and roll direction (66% and 64% stabilisation, respectively). Because we performed these experiments in darkness, the lizards based their head stabilisation on vestibular information. Hence, we hypothesised that their vestibular system is less sensitive in pitch direction than in yaw and roll direction. Yet, this was not confirmed by a detailed Fluid-Structure Interaction model of the membranous labyrinth, which showed that not pitch sensitivity (88% of yaw sensitivity), but roll sensitivity (73% of yaw sensitivity) is the lowest. So why is the head stabilisation in darkness almost as good in roll direction as in yaw direction? While this may be due to neurological nonlinearities, it seems worth noticing that the moment of inertia is lowest in roll direction due to the elongated head shape. Hence, less torque is needed to stabilise a head rotation in roll direction than in the other two directions.
Gracceva, G. & Bombi, P. & Luiselli, I. & Bologna, M.A. (2008) -
Demographic and morphological aspects of two nearby subpopulations of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) were studied, by a capture-mark-recapture procedure, at an archaeological site in the surroundings of Rome, central Italy. In both sites, the births peak was observed in September. Adult sex-ratio was skewed towards males in one subpopulation, but was close to equality in the other. Morphological characteristics were consistent in the two sites, with males always exhibiting larger snout-vent-length and head size. Population size and density, computed by a Jolly-Seber index applied by using POPAN model revealed differences between subpopulations, with lizard density being much higher in the site with higher habitat heterogeneity and shelter availability. Tail condition was similar between sites. The general implications of these data are discussed.
Graf, P. (2006) -
Graf, P. (2007) -
In den vergangenen Jahrzehnten hat die Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis LINNAEUS 1758) besonders durch die Intensivierung der Landwirtschaft gravierende Bestandeseinbrüche erlitten. In der aktuellen Roten Liste der gefährdeten Reptilienarten der Schweiz (2005) wird sie als gefährdet (vulnerable) eingestuft. Etwa 20% aller bekannten Vorkommen in der Schweiz liegen heute innerhalb eines 40 m breiten Streifens entlang von Bahnlinien. Diese wichtigen Lebensräume sind gefährdet, denn die Schweizerischen Bundesbahnen planen darin vielerorts die Erstellung kilometerlanger Lärmschutzwände. Durch diese Bauwerke werden optimale Zauneidechsenhabitate in Fragmente zerstückelt. Zusätzlich beschatten die rund 2 m hohen Lärmschutzwände, je nach Exposition, beträchtliche Teile des potenziellen Lebensraums. Dehalb stellt sich die Frage, ob sich die Zauneidechse unter solchen Bedingungen längerfristig halten und fortpflanzen kann. In dieser Arbeit wurde der Einfluss der Beschattung auf die Kondition und den Fortpflanzungserfolg von Zauneidechsen untersucht. Zu diesem Zweck wurden zwei Experimente durchgeführt: In einem ersten Experiment wurden im Freiland bereits befruchtete Weibchen gefangen und im Labor bei unterschiedlichen Temperaturbedingungen gehalten. Die Temperatur wurde variiert durch unterschiedlich lange Beleuchtungsdauer mit wärmespendenden Glühbirnen, unter denen sich die Echsenweibchen „sonnen“ konnten. Ihr Verhalten, die Körpertemperatur, die Gewichtsveränderungen vor und nach der Eiablage sowie ihre Reproduktionsleistung wurden in Abhängigkeit von der Beleuchtungsdauer analysiert. Im zweiten Experiment wurden die Eier dieser Weibchen einerseits im Labor unter verschiedenen Temperaturbedingungen, andererseits in Freilandgehegen mit und ohne künstliche Beschattung bis nach dem Schlüpfen der Jungtiere aufgezogen. Als abhänginge Variablen wurden Inkubationsdauer, Schlupfrate sowie Gewicht und Körperlänge der geschlüpften Jungtiere erfasst. Die Resultate zeigten, dass die „kalten“ Weibchen (die einem „Schatten-Faktor“ ausgesetzt wurden) eine deutlich reduzierte Fitness erfuhren, verglichen mit Weibchen ohne „Schatten-Faktor“: Erstens erfolgte die Eiablage später im Jahr, zweitens war die Inkubationsdauer tendenziell länger und drittens schlüpften kleinere und leichtere Jungtiere. Eine klare Antwort gaben auch die enormen Unterschiede der ermittelten Schlupfraten. Nur aus der Hälfte der unter Lärmschutzwandbedingung vergrabenen Eier schlüpfte jeweils ein Jungtier, im Vergleich zu einer 88 %-igen Schlupfrate unter nicht manipulierten Bedingungen! Zusammengenommen zeigten die Resultate ein deutliches Bild: Der Schattenwurf einer Lärmschutzwand hatte einen negativen Einfluss auf den Reproduktionserfolg der Zauneidechsen und könnte mittelfristig einen massiven Rückgang oder sogar das Erlöschen der Population bewirken.
Graff, H. & Bringsoe, H. (1996) -
Graham, S.A. (2018) -
After years of decline, resulting in the extinction of the sand lizard Lacerta agilis in Wales, the species has now been returned to several dune system sites which also contain the viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara. As dune system habitats are becoming an increasingly important habitat type in the UK for L. agilis, providing a relatively safe haven for these and Z. vivipara populations from anthropogenic change, it is time to ensure the long-term survival of these populations. In this study, environmentally advantageous conditions for detection of both species were established for three dune system sites in North-West Wales. Surface temperature, UV, cloud cover and wind speed were identified as being the most influential detection parameters, with cloud cover and wind speed noted as having a negative influence on detection. Furthermore, favoured habitat was identified and ‘suitable habitat’ modelled for both species. Across the research sites both species were found to utilise habitats of a similar composition with reintroduced L. agilis favouring specific habitat features such as basking direction and degree of angle of their basking position. Habitat and site utilisation models indicate that for highly mobile dune systems L. agilis dispersal across a site is not of concern. For static or eroding dune systems, large, connected areas of favoured habitats are absent. In this situation, L. agilis dispersal (from introduction locations) is limited. Mean yearly L. agilis dispersal distances of 19.64 m – 28 m represents an approximate trend across the three research sites. The physical presence of L. agilis alone, however, does not constitute a successful reintroduction. Genetic diversity of the reintroduced populations was observed to be lower than those calculated in naturally occurring British populations. This is a matter of conservation concern, with a number of targeted mitigatory measures proposed to improve the genetic integrity, reducing the chance of population extinction(s). Mean time to extinction estimates indicate that for populations on highly mobile dune systems population survival times of between 11.4 yrs and 63.1 yrs could be expected. This is reduced for static or eroding dune system sites. The implications of these findings for the conservation of L. agilis and Z. vivipara are discussed in the context of current challenges and future management requirements. It is hoped that this thesis will help guide the future development of the reintroduction program, and in addition, provide a sound scientific basis for the future management of reintroduction sites and species monitoring.
Graitson, E. (2000) -
Graitson, E. (2001) -
Graitson, E. (2002) -
Graitson, E. (2005) -
Graitson, E. (2006) -
Graitson, E. (2007) -
Graitson, E. (2008) -
The reptile fauna of the siliceous rock habitats of the central-eastern Ardenne was studied between 2000 and 2007. The investigations were carried out at 26 sites distributed in all the hydrographic watersheds draining the area, except one (the Our watershed): Eastern and Western Ourthes, Amblève and Sure. All the significant rocky habitats of the area were studied: rocks and landslides, abandoned quarries and exploitation dumps, rail and road embankments. Five species were recorded: Anguis fragilis, Podarcis muralis, Zootoca vivipara, Coronella austriaca and Natrix natrix, of which Anguis fragilis and Zootoca vivipara were the most widespread. Podarcis muralis was only found in the Ourthe basin. The population of the latter species at Hérou constitutes a remarkable isolate while the population along the Stoumont-Coo railway is one of the largest in numbers in the Benelux countries. Coronella austriaca is reported for the second time in the Western Ourthe valley. This snake is only present in the most thermophilous habitats, where the majority of the populations seemed extremely isolated. Natrix natrix was rather widespread but never abundant.
Graitson, E. (2009) -
Graitson, E. (2011) -
Graitson, E. (2013) -
Graitson, E. & Hussin, J. & Vacher, J.-P. (2012) -
The results of a 24 year survey of a community of reptiles typical of northern Europe along a 19 km long railway track in the South of Belgium suggests that: i) four among the six species (Anguis fragilis, Podarcis muralis, Zootoca vivipara, and Natrix natrix helvetica) exhibited stable abundance levels and distribution patterns; ii) Vipera berus strongly decreased and is now nearly extinct; iii) Coronella austriaca appeared in the course of the survey and its populations sharply increased. The decrease of Vipera berus can be explained by the degradation of some of its habitats. The causes of the increase of Coronella austriaca are unknown but might be linked to climate change.
Graitson, E. & Jacob, J.-P. (2001) -
Graitson, E. & Jacob, J.-P. (2007) -
Graitson, E. & Naulleau, G. (2005) -
Artificial shelters: a technique for completing species check-lists and for monitoring reptile populations. We present a bibliographic review on the use of artificial shelters to obtain herpetological species check-lists inWestern Europe. The methodologies in the different studies are compared. Three different kinds of listing are distinguished: qualitative, semi-qualitative, and quantitative.Comparisons across studies show that the use of shelter-plates highly favours the detection of at least five species (Anguis fragilis, Coluber viridiflavus, Coronella austriaca, Elaphe longissima, and Natrix natrix). Plates also allow the detection of juvenile individuals more reliably than the visual searching method. Shelter use increases with time. More variation was found in the detection of Viperids, Lacertids and some amphibians. For these species, artificial shelter use is useful for qualitative listings but the procedure should be improved for quantitative listings.
Graitson, E. & Paquay, M. (2007) -
Gramentz, D. (1995) -
Gramentz, D. (1996) -
Gramentz, D. (2002) -
Acanthodactylus scutellatus fand sich in weichsandigen Halbwüstengebieten, die am Fundort eine Vegetationsbedeckung am Boden von durchschnittlich 32,9 % (Bereich: 10-90 %) aufwies. Die Eidechsen hielten sich bevorzugt in der nähreren Umgebung von Büschen auf (x = 19,4 cm; Bereich: 0-62 cm). Die Aktivität begann etwa viereinhalb Stunden nach Sonnenaufgang und konnte während des Untersuchungszeitraums vom 31.März bis 15. April 2000 aufgrund ungünstiger meteorologischer Bedingungen nur Vormittags und Mittags festgestellt werden. Alle zwölf beobachteten A. scutellatus wiesen keine Schwanzverletzung auf. Die Laufstrecke betrug beim ersten Fluchtversuch durchschnittlich 162,5 cm (Bereich: 52-280 cm). Nach der Flucht verließ sich die Art zuerst auf Tarnung, setzte die Flucht erst bei weiterer Bedrohung fort und flüchtete nicht in Baue. Nach dem Fang wehrten sich die Eidechsen mit den Defensivverhaltensweisen: Körperwinden, Beißen, Schwanzschlängeln und Maulaufsperren.
Gramentz, D. (2011) -
It is reported that several developmental projects on the former British military airfield Gatow have led to the destruction of a former habitat of the sand lizard. The remaining area is now under threat to be completely destroyed by ongoing and near future constructions.
Gramentz, D. (2012) -
Es wurden mehrere im Stadtgebiet von Berlin vorkommende Fundorte der Zauneidechse, Lacerta agilis, aufgelistet und untersucht. Diese Fundorte wurden auf ihre Habitatqualität hin bewertet und verschiedene Parameter wie das Vorhandensein von Sonnenplätzen und sandigen Zonen zur Eiablage erfasst. Gleichzeitig sind auch isolierende Faktoren wie das Vorhandensein von Straßen für Autos und Fahrräder mit beurteilt worden.
Gramentz, D. (2013) -
Twenty localities from in and around Berlin where different colour variants of the Sand Lizard Lacerta agilis have been found are listed. These indlude melanistic and hypomelanistic colour morphs as well as the “erythronotus” mutant. Records of the concolor mutant from the Berlin area do not exist. The specific frequencies in which the colour mutations occur within local populations are currently not considered in relocations of sand lizards.
Es werden mehrere im Bundesland Brandenburg aktuell vorkommende Fundorte der Zauneidechse, Lacerta agilis, aufgelistet und untersucht. Diese im stadtnahen Umland von Berlin liegenden Fundorte wurden auf ihre Habitatqualität hin bewertet und verschiedene Parameter wie das Vorhandensein von Sonnenplätzen und sandigen Flächen zur Eiablage werden diskutiert. Gleichzeitig sind auch isolierende Faktoren wie die Existenz von Straßen für Autos und Fahrräder mit beurteilt worden. Für verschiedene Fundorte werden Managementvorschläge gemacht.
Gramentz, D. (2014) -
The occurrence of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) on the sewage farm Karolinenhöhe and surroundings in Berlin Spandau was examined. At the localities various ecological parameters such as habitat temperature, relative humidity and exposure were recorded. Furthermore, losses of lizards are documented, sources of risks are discussed and protective measures are proposed.
Es werden drei Fälle einer plötzlichen Verhaltensänderung von Flucht zu Kampf bei adulten Lacerta agilis geschildert. Ein Wechsel des Antiprädationsverhaltens geschieht, wenn die Eidechse erschöpft ist und eine fortgesetzte Flucht wahrscheinlich nicht erfolgreich verläuft. Dann orientiert sie sich zum potenziellen Prädator hin, öffnet das Maul und hebt den Vorderkörper durch das Ausstrecken der Vorderbeine an. Falls vorhanden, werden Strukturen wie Büsche erklettert, um dem Prädator so nah wie möglich zu kommen. Dieses Verhalten ist wahrscheinlich jedoch nicht ausreichend, um sich gegen streunende Hauskatzen zu wehren.
Im Rahmen einer Schutzmaßnahme bei der Erneuerung von Trinkwasserbrunnen im Forst Spandau, Berlin, wurden zwischen dem 9. April und 8. Juni 2013 fünf vorjährige Jungtiere, 57 Männchen und 26 Weibchen von Zootoca vivipara untersucht. Drei Männchen wurden jeweils einmal wieder gefunden. Die Dorsalzeichnung der Männchen konnte in fünf Kategorien aufgeteilt werden, die der Weibchen in drei. Bei den Männchen war eine Einteilung der Unterseite in drei Farbmorphen – orange, gelb und rot – möglich, jedoch keine bei den Weibchen, wo, bis auf eine Ausnahme, ein gradueller Unterschied von weiß bis braun vorlag.
Es werden mehrere im Berliner Forst Spandau vorkommendeFundorte der Waldeidechse, Zootoca vivipara, aufgelistet und untersucht. Diese Fundorte wurden auf ihre Habitatqualität hin bewertet und verschiedene Parameter wie z.B. die Existenz von Sonneplätzen erfasst. Zugleich werden auch isolierende Faktoren wie das Vorhandensein von Straßen für Autos und Fahrräder mit beurteilt sowie Emphehlungen zur Verbesserung der Habitatqualität vorgeschlagen.
Gramentz, D. (2015) -
Ein wenige Wochen alter Schlüpfling der Zauneidechse konnte dabei beobachtet werden, wie er ein Weibchen des Gewöhnlichen Weberknechts (Phalangium opilio) fraß. Dabei konnten die Handhabung und das Ausrichten der Beute durch eine Fotoserie dokumentiert werden.
Gramentz, D. (2016) -
Ein totes, hochträchtiges Zauneidechsenweibchen wurde während einer Umsiedlungsmaßnahme in Berlin entdeckt. Nach erfolgtem Kaiserschnitt fanden sich in einem Ovidukt des Tieres acht Eier, und in einem anderen waren Eizellen mit einem Durchmesser von 2 bis 3 mm vorhanden. Die Eizellen dürften auf ein zweites Gelege innerhalb der Saison hinweisen. Vier Eier waren je paarweise miteinander verbunden, die anderen vier waren einzeln. Nach einer Inkubationsdauer von 30 Tagen, bei einer Inkubationstemperatur von 31 bis 34° C. schlüpften zwei Eidechsen, die anschließend freigelassen wurden.
Das Geschlechterverhältnis adulter Zauneidechsen der erythronotus-Mutation war stärker zugunsten der Männchen verschoben als bei normal gefärbten Tieren. Sowohl bei den adulten Männchen als auch bei den Adulti insgesamt bevorzugten Tiere der erythronotus-Mutation significant häufiger Altgras als Untergrund am Sonnenplatz, während bei Zauneidechsen mit Normalfärbung die Wahl der Sonnenplätze zwischen Altgras und Wühlmaushügeln ausgeglichen war. Ein signifikanter Unterschied bezüglich der Fluchtstrecke bestand zwischen den beiden Gruppen nicht, und es wurde auch kein bedeutender Unterschied bei der Exposition festgestellt. Ebenso existierte bei den Adulti kein signifikanter Unterschied hinsichtlich eines Befalls mit Zecken. Das Verhältnis von erythronotus-Zauneidechsen mit schwarzen Punkten im rötlichen Rückenband (heterozygot) gegenüber solchen ohne Punkte war ausgeglichen.
Gramentz, D. (2017) -
Der Befall der Zauneidechse mit dem Gemeinen Holzbock (Ixodes ricinus) wurde im Rahmen einer Umsiedlung in Berlin-Spandau untersucht. Beim Befall der Adulti bestand zwischen den Geschlechtern ein signifikanter Unterschied. Die Befallsquote betrug bei den adulten Männchen 82,8 %, bei adulten Weibchen 61,5 % und bei allen Adulti zusammen 72,1 %. Der durchschnittliche Befall der Adulti betrug 7,3 Zecken pro Eidechsen bei den Männchen, 2,7 bei den Weibchen und für alle Adulti zusammen 5,0. Die größte Anzahl von Zecken betrug bei einem adulten Männchen 31, und bei einem adulten Weibchen waren es 15. Bei den Adulti saßen über die Hälfte (52,2 %) der Zecken am Vorderbeinansatz. 89,0 % aller bei den adulten Zauneidechsen gefundenen Zecken saßen zwischen Schnauze und Rückseite des Vorderbeinansatzes. Bei den adulten Männchen und Weibchen lag eine sehr gleichmäßige Verteilung der Zecken auf beiden Körperseiten vor.
In drei Populationen der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) im Berline Bezirk Spandau wurden die Körperoberflächentemperatur der Tiere und die Substratoberflächentemperatur am Sonneplatz praktisch zeitgleich gemessen. Die Temperaturmesssungen wurden mit einem Infrarothermometer bei Besonnung und Verschattung der Eidechsen durchgeführt, ohne das die Tiere gestört warden mussten. Dioe Messergebnisse warden in mehreren Tabellen zusammengefasst. Es konnte weder bei den besonnten noch bei den beschatteten Zauneidechsen ein signifikanter Unterschied in der Körperoberflächentemperatur zwischen Männchen und Weibchen festgestellt warden.
Gramentz, D. (2018) -
An vier Standnorten (drei in Berlin, einer in Brandenburg) wurden von 557 Zauneidechsen, die abgefangen und umgesiedelt werden sollten, die Kopfseiten fotografiert und zu einem späteren Zeitpunkt verschiedene Beschilderungsmerkmale untersucht. Durchschnittlich 82,1 & der untersuchten Zauneidechsen wiesen eine nasoloreale Beschilderung in der Konstellation ½ links / ½ rechts auf. Beim dahinter liegenden großen Loreale besaßen 89,8 & eine 1-li- / 1-re-Verteilung. 62,4 & der Eidechsen besaßen bei den Praeocularia eine Verteilung von 2 li / 2 re und 55,5 % der bei den Supratemporalia eine 2-li- / 2-re-Verteilung und bei 74,8 % eine 4-li / 4-re-Konstellation dei den Supralabialia. Bei allen diesen Pholidosemerkmalen der seitlichen Kopfschilde kamen auch asymmetrische Beschilderungen in unterschiedlichen Häufigkeitsverteilungen vor. Dabei kann der Unterschied einiger Merkmale zwischen den beiden Kopfseiten in Einzelfällen sogar bis zu zwei Schilde betragen.
Gramentz, D. (2019) -
Zwei benachbarte Populationen der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis), die nur durch die Bundesstraße 5 voneinander getrennt waren, wiesen unterschiedliche Häufigkeiten der erythronotus-Farbmorphe auf. Nur in einer der beiden untersuchten Zauneidechsenpopulationen wurden Exemplare der erythronotus-Mutation angetroffen. Bei diesen Exemplaren wiesen 69,2 % eine dunkle Punktierung im Rückenband auf, während bei 30,8 % der Morphe keinerlei schwarze Punkte oder Flecken im Rückenband vorhanden waren. Möglicherweise übt eine dauerhafte Isolation von Populationen einen Einfluss auf die Häufigkeit rotrückiger Tiere aus und kann bis zu ihrem vollständigen Verschwinden führen.
Es wird über den Fund eines adulten cyanistischen Männchens der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) innerhalb eines stark isolierten Gebäudebereiches bei Elstal (Brandenburg) berichtet. Dieses Tier wies eine hellbläuliche Färbung über dem gesamten Körper auf. Die unnormale Färbung des Exemplasrs könnte Ursache eines mangelnden genetischen Austauschs der beschriebenen Population mit anderen Zauneidechsen sein.
Gramentz, D. (2020) -
In an area in Michendorf (Brandenburg) that was completely free of sand lizards after demolition works in 2016, a total of 80 adult and subadult specimens as well as 60 hatchlings were caught in 2019. All these captured sand lizards therefore probably immigrated or hatched primarily in a short period of two yerars in 2017 and 2018.
Gramentz, D. & Kühnel, K.-D. (2020) -
A partly melanistic male of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) was caucht on September 17, 2017 in the former Olympic village of 1936 near Elstal (district Havelland, Brandenburg). However, the animal was not entirely coloured black, but had small parts on the back with light-reddish to light-brown areas as it occurs similar in the erythronotus-mutation. An entirely black male was caught by a cat on May 15, 2020 in the district Treptow-Köpenick of Berlin.
Gramentz, D. & Kühnel, K.-D. (2021) -
Grande, P. del & Minelli, G. & Franceschini, V. & Vighi, F. (1981) -
Grangé, P. (1995) -
Granger, A. (1894) -
Grano, M. & Cattanea, C. & Cattaneo, A. (2018) -
In this work almost all the known presences of Amphibians and Reptiles of the Aegean island of Tilos are confirmed, while serious criticalities are highlighted for the species more related to the aquatic environments due to the strong aridity of the island. On the basis of new evidence, it also confirmed the membership of the Telescopus fallax population of Tilos to the subspecies rhodicusWettstein, 1952. Considerations on the range of this species to the southern Aegean islands are also expressed.
Grano, M. & Cattaneo, C. & Cattaneo, A. (2011) -
A case-report of cannibalistic behaviour in Italian wall lizard Podarcis siculus campestris De Betta, 1857 is described here along with the first photographic record.
Grano, M. & Cattaneo, C. & Cattaneo, A. (2015) -
This note is a preliminary study on the herpetological and theriological fauna of Alimia Island (Rhodes Archipelago, Aegean Sea). Are described seven species of reptiles and three of micromammals. Is also provided a short botanical characterization of the island.
Grano, M. & Cattaneo, C. & Cattaneo, A. (2024) -
During naturalistic research performed in August of 2022 and 2023 in several Aegean islands, three new herpetological records occurred: Hemorrhois nummifer on Telendos Island, Laudakia stellio on Pserimos Island and Dolichophis caspius on Kitriani Islet.
Gräper, I. (1909) -
Grasso, I.P. (1788) -
Grathwohl, J. (2009) -
Grathwohl, J. & Olsen, J. (1993) -
Gray, J.E. (1831) -
Gray, J.E. (1838) -
Gray, J.E. (1845) -
Gray, J.E. (1857) -
Gray, J.E. (1863) -
Gray, J.E. (1864) -
Graziani, F. & Berti, R. & Brizzi, R. & Dapporto, L. & Corti, C. (2004) -
Graziani, F. & Berti, R. & Dapporto, L. & Corti, C. (2006) -
Grbac, I. & Bauwens, D. (2001) -
We studied the impact of restrictions by the thermal environments on body temperatures (Tbs) and microhabitat use of the lacertid lizards Podarcis melisellensis and Podarcis muralis in a Mediterranean area (Croatia) during autumn. The thermal conditions at available microhabitats were assessed with copper models that measured the operative temperatures (Te) at different sites. We estimated the thermal suitability of microhabitats by quantifying the extent of similarity between the Tes and the range of selected temperatures (i.e., the Tbs that lizards maintain in zero-cost conditions in a laboratory thermogradient; Tsel). Both species maintained, throughout most of day, Tbs that were on average 2–4 C below both Tsel and the Tbs recorded in the field during summer. Nevertheless, the Tbs measured during autumn were in the upper range of available Tes and were much closer to the Tsel than were the Tes. In addition, lizards were most often observed in the warmest microhabitats and were often seen basking. These results indicate that lizards were actively thermoregulating. The Te measurements show that lizards encounter suitable thermal conditions (i.e., where Tes is within Tsel) in only a restricted subset of the available microhabitats and during only a relatively short period of the day. Thus, lizards are constrained to maintain relatively low Tbs during autumn by the generally low available Tes. Although lizards were clearly thermoregulating, they appeared to accept lower Tbs during activity in autumn than in summer. A possible reason for this seasonal shift in activity Tbs is that achievement of higher Tbs during autumn is only feasible by confining activities to some specific microhabitats, which may severely constrain other behaviors, such as foraging.
Grbac, I. & Brnin, K. (2006) -
Background and Purpose: Competitive exclusion is thought to be involved in the distribution of the lizards Podarcis sicula and P. melisellensis (Lacertidae) along the Adriatic coastal region of Croatia. It is hypothesized that robust and aggressive P. sicula colonized the East Adriatic coast and numerous islands, where it replaced P. melisellensis by direct behavioral interference. Material and Methods: Here we report on a study of habitat selection of sympatric populations of P. sicula and P. melisellensis on the small Adriatic island of Vrgada. We examine differences in habitat usage by the two species during summer and fall, and evaluate lizard sighting frequency in different habitat categories in relation to their availability. Results: The two species differed significantly in habitat use; P. sicula used more frequently houses and walls in village, fields and rocks near sea, whereas P. melisellensis preferred all types of stonewalls. P. sicula showed the highest niche breadth, and was also the most abundant species. The observed sighting frequency of both species in different habitat categories differed significantly from their availability. Although variation in habitat use between summer and fall was detected in both species, the between-species difference in habitat occupation was consistent in both seasons. Conclusion: The observed differences in habitat preferences between the sympatric populations of two species are qualitatively similar to those exhibited on islands inhabited by only one of both species. This suggests that differences in habitat use are species-specific and may delay or even prevent complete exclusion.
Grbac, I. & Leiner, S. & Perović, F. (1998) -
Thermal and trophic niche relationship between podarcis melisellensis and Lacerta oxycephala were studied from island of Vis in June and September 1997. We recorded 289 cloacal temperatures and related substrate and aur temperatures considering sex and age categories. It seems that p. melisellensis posses a certain independence from microhabitat temperatures as in many reptiles adaptet to life in desert regions. Females and subadults of L. oxycephala showed similar patterns. A study of diet showed that the most important prey groups for both species were Formicoidea. Food niche overlap between species was very high.
Grbac, I. & Leiner, S. & Perović, F. (2001) -
Grbac, I. & Mihoci, I. & Hellemans, K. & Van Damme, R. (2008) -
We studied the thermoregulatory behaviour and microhabitat use of the lacertid lizards Podarcis sicula and Podarcis melisellensis on the island Vrgada (East Adriatic, Croatia) during early spring. The sympatry of the two Podarcis species on Vrgada is exceptional in that most other small islands in the Adriatic harbour only one of the two species, likely as the result of competitive exclusion. It is thought that the dominant robust colonizing P. sicula replaces the more slender native P. melisellensis on those islands were it gets a foothold. We here test the hypothesis that on Vrgada, despite apparent syntopy on a macrohabitat scale, P. sicula occupies the better microhabitats and forces P. melisellensis into (thermally) less favourable ones. We measured field body temperatures of active lizards of both species, and compared them to operative temperatures and temperatures selected in laboratory conditions, to compare the accuracy and effectiveness of thermoregulation between the two species. We also estimated the thermal quality of the microhabitats occupied by the two species. In addition, we checked for possible differences in activity cycles and (thermoregulatory) behaviour.
Grbac, I. & Podnar, M. & Mayer, W. (2019) -
The Dalmatian wall lizard Podarcis melisellensis and the Italian wall lizard P. siculus inhabit the Adriatic coastal region of Croatia, representing the most abundant members of the regional herpetofauna. Because of strong interspecific competition they are sympatric on the mainland and larger islands, while sympatry is usually absent on smaller islands. The robust and aggressive P. siculus colonized the East Adriatic coast and numerous islands, where it replaced autochthonous P. melisellensis by competitive exclusion. In our work we question possible framework of their distribution on Eastern Adriatic islands.
Grbac, I. & Vujčić-Karlo, S. & Lazar, B. & Luca, N. de (1998) -
Aspects of trophic niche in a lizard community of three syntopic species, the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis murali), the Dalmatian Wall Lizard (P. melisellensis) and the Dalmatian Algyroides (Algyroides nigropunctatus)were studied in a submediterranean habitat on Cres Island (the Northern Adriatic, Croatia). We collected a total of 71 faecal pellets from May to October 1997. Prey availability was estimated by two types of traps for invertebrates, during the same period. All three species preyed on a wide variety of invertebrates, but mainly on insects. The most important prey groups for P. muralis and P. melisellensis were Coleoptera, Araneae, Opiliones and Diptera. A. nigropunctatus feeds predominantly on Araneae. Predominant prey in traps were Diptera, Formicidae and Coleoptera. Electivity scores for individual prey taxa were very highly (positively) correlated with relative availability of Opiliones and Araneae, positively correlated with Coleoptera and negatively correlated with Diptera for all three studied species. Food niche overlap was highest between P. muralis and P. melisellensis (Ojk=0.93).
Grechko, V.V. & Bannikova, A.A. & Kosushkin, S.A. & Ryabinina, N.L. & Milto, K.D. & Darevsky, I.S. & Kramerov, D.A. (2007) -
To characterize the molecular genetic diversity of the genus Darevskia, several populations were examined by the inter-SINE-PCR method, reporting the number and sizes of the spacers between individual copies of SINE-like interspersed repeats. Examination of 17 D. raddei geographical populations and several reference species revealed unequal genetic differences, measured as Nei and Li’s genetic distances (DNL), for different groups of samples. The highest homogeneity was observed for the apparently panmictic D. raddei nairensis population from the basin of the Hrazdan River: genetic differences within each of the five samples and between them were similarly low (less than 0.1). The difference between ten samples of D. raddei raddei from Armenia and Karabakh (0.2–0.3) was somewhat higher than the interindividual difference within each sample (0.1–0.2), indicating that the samples belonged to different populations. The assumption was supported by the phylogenetic tree topology and multidimensional scaling. The differences between samples from the morphological subspecies D. raddei raddei and D. raddei nairensis ranged 0.3–0.4. The difference of two D. raddei raddei samples of Talysh (Azerbaijan) from other samples of the same subspecies corresponded to the subspecific level. The genetic distances between the good species D. raddei and D. rudis was 0.6–0.7. In terms of DNL, a questionable population from northwestern Turkey (“D. tristis”) was closer to D. rudis (DNL = 0.45), probably representing its subspecies. The phylogeography of D. raddei is discussed.
Grechko, V.V. & Ciobano, D.G. & Darevsky, I.S. & Kramerov, D.A. (2006) -
Grechko, V.V. & Ciobanu, D.G. & Darevsky, I.S. & Kosushkin, S.A. & Kramerov, D.A. (2006) -
Satellite DNA repeats were studied in Caucasian populations of 18 rock lizard species of the genus Darevskia. Four subfamilies (Caucasian Lacerta satellites (CLsat)I–IV) were identified, which shared 70%–75% sequence similarity. The distribution of CLsat subfamilies among the species was studied. All the species could be divided into at least 3 clades, depending on the content of CLsat subfamilies in each genome: “saxicola”, “rudis”, and “mixta” lizards. CLsatI was found in all studied species, but in very different quantities; the “saxicola” group contained this subfamily predominantly. The “rudis” group also contained CLsatIII, and the “mixta” group carried considerable amounts of CLsatII. The highest concentrations of CLsatI and CLsatII were detected in 2 ground lizards — D. derjugini and D. praticola, respectively. D. parvula predominantly carried CLsatIII. CLsatIV was found only in the Crimean species D. lindholmi. The distribution patterns of satellite subfamilies show possible postglacial speciation within the genus Darevskia. A hybrid origin of species that possess 2 or 3 CLsat subfamilies and important clarifications to the systematics of the genus are proposed.
Grechko, V.V. & Darevsky, I.S. (2007) -
Grechko, V.V. & Fedorova, L.V. & Ryabinina, N.L. & Ciobanu, D.G. & Kosushkin, S.A. & Darevsky, I.S. (2006) -
Four types of nuclear DNA markers identified by the taxonprint, RAPD, and IMP (Inter-MIR-PCR) methods, and the nucleotide sequences of satellite DNA monomers have been used to analyze the molecular genetic similarity between some populations, subspecies, and species of lizards combined into the group Lacerta s. str., as well as representatives of some other genera. The notions on the systematics and phylogeny of this group based on morphological and zoogeographic criteria have been compared to the conclusions based on molecular genetic data. The genus and species subdivisions of populations based on nuclear molecular markers and morpho- logical characters generally agree with each other, the degree of genetic differences being correlated with the tax- onomy suggested by zoomorphologists. The degree of differences between the subspecies of one of the species studied, Lacerta agilis, varies depending on the molecular markers used: according to the results of RAPD anal- ysis, all subspecies substantially differ from one another, the variation within populations being small; with respect to other markers, the differences are smaller and not equivalent. The existence of the so-called eastern and western clades of this species earlier assumed by other researchers on the basis of mtDNA and morphological data has been confirmed. There are no distinct gradations exceeding individual variation in 14 populations of L. agilis exigua (the eastern clade) with respect to IMP markers, although these populations inhabit a vast area from the Ural Mountains to the Kabardino-Balkar Republic (the Caucasus). These data suggest that the subspecies has been rap- idly spreading northwards since the Pleistocene glaciation (about 15,000 years ago).
Гречко В.В., Федорова Л.В., Рябинин Д.М., Рябинина Н.Л., Чобану Д.Г., Косушкин С.А., Даревский И.С. (2006) -
целью сравнительного изучения молекулярно-генетического сходства некоторых популяций, подвидов и видов комплекса ящериц, объединяемых в группу Lacerta s. str., и представителей некоторых других родов использовали четыре вида маркеров ядерной ДНК, выявляемых методами так-сонопринта, RAPD, IMP (Inter-MIR-PCR), а также при изучении нуклеотидной последовательности мономеров сателлитных ДНК. Представления о филогении и систематике этой группы рептилий, выработанные на основании морфологических и зоогеографических критериев, сопоставлены с выводами, основанными на молекулярно-генетических данных. Показано, что родовые и видовые подразделения популяций по ядерным молекулярным маркерам и по морфологическим признакам, в целом, согласуются, а степень генетических различий коррелирует с таксономией, предлагаемой зооморфологами. Различия между подвидами одного из изученных видов - Lacerta agilis - при сравнении разных молекулярных маркеров выражены неодинаково: по данным метода RAPD все подвиды существенно отличаются (при низкой внутрипопуляционной изменчивости этого признака), по другим маркерам эти различия выражены меньше и неравноценны. Подтверждается существование так называемых восточной и западной подгрупп этого вида, выделенных ранее другими авторами по результатам изучения мтДНК и по морфологии. Не обнаружено отчетливых градаций, выходящих за пределы индивидуальной изменчивости, в 14 популяциях подвида L. agilis exigua (восточная группа) по маркерам IMP несмотря на то, что эти популяции обитают на огромной территории от Урала до Кабардино-Балкарии. Эти данные можно рассматривать как свидетельство быстрого распространения подвида на север после плейстоценового оледенения (около 15000 лет назад).
Grechko, V.V. & Kataev, M.V. & Melnikova, M.N. & Darevsky, I.S. (1993) -
Due to some suggestion [8] the parthenogenesis in vertebrates is the result of interspecies hybridization, and some species seem to be the main candidates participating in this process. DNA parts, which may be revealed using polymerase chain reaction in AP-RAPD modification, were compared in parthenogenetic lizards forms and in supposed parental species for them. As it was shown by other authors and confirmed by us, arbitrary primed randomly amplified DNA products are species specific and may be used as a molecular taxonomic criterion. It was shown that each parthenogenetic species studied has the patterns containing only the bands of one or another supposed parents and no more. This is in favour of the hypothesis mentioned above. Investigation of 103 10-nucleotide primers in PCR was done.
Grechko, V.V. & Ryabinin, D.M. & Fedorova, L.V. & Fedorov, A.N. & Ryskov, A.P. & Darevsky, I.S. (1997) -
The Caucasian parthenogenetic rock lizards of the L. saxicola complex probably originated by hybridisation of some bisexual species. We verified this hypothesis using a new approach based on comparison of repetitive DNA characters, which produce species-specific patterns (named `taxonprint`). The method relies on restriction endonuclease hydrolysis of genomic DNA, with the following 32P-end labeling and polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic separation of the fragments. The parthenogenetic species L. armeniaca and L. dahli possess specific features both of putative maternal L. mixta (in some taxonprints), and of paternal L. valentini (in other ones), whereas L. portschinskii and L. rudis also could be the paternal species. Parthenoclones L. unisexualis and L. uzzelli have the specific DNA features in several taxonprints of L. raddei or L. nairensis (which cannot be discriminated by taxonprints) which are supposed to be maternal species for L. unisexualis and paternal ones for L. uzzelli. The specific features of L. valentini (or L. portschinskii) are observed in L. unisexualis; L. uzzelli has not been investigated in this respect. Parthenogenetic L. rostombekovi also possesses properties of L. raddei or L. nairensis, but we have not be able to find any features of supposed paternal L. portschinskii in this parthenogenetic species.
Grechko, V.V. et al. (1997) -
Multiple band patterns of DNA repeats in the 20–500-nucleotide range can be detected by digesting genomic DNA with short—cutting restriction endonucleases, followed by end labeling of the restriction fragments and fractionation in nondenaturing polyacrylamide gels. We call such band patterns obtained from genomic DNA ‘‘taxonprints’’ (Fedorov et al. 1992). Here we show that taxonprints for the taxonomic groups studied (mammals, reptiles, fish, insects—altogether more than 50 species) have the following properties: (1) All individuals from the same species have identical taxonprints. (2) Taxonprint bands can be subdivided into those specific for a single species and those specific for groups of closely related species, genera, and even families. (3) Each restriction endonuclease produces unique band patterns; thus, five to ten restriction enzymes (about 100 bands) may be sufficient for a statistical treatment of phylogenetic relationships based on polymorphisms of restriction endinuclease sites. We demonstrate that taxonprint analysis allows one to distinguish closely related species and to establish the degree of similarity among species and among genera. These characteristics make to use this phenomenon for phylogenetic aims (Cooke 1975; Christie and Skinner 1979; Brown and Dover 1979, 1980; Elizur et al. 1982; Hembelen et al. 1982; Buckland 1983; Dandieu et al. 1984; Lima de Faria et al. 1984; Shubina and Mednikov 1986; Turner et al. 1991), but this approach has not been extensively applied. In this paper we have reexamined the problem on the basis of our own preliminary results, partly published in Russian journals, confirming the ideas about possible correlations between evolution of DNA repeats and speciation (Fedorov et al. 1992; Grechko et al. 1993; Potapov and Ryskov 1993). We have demonstrated that the modified method designated ‘‘DNA taxonprint’’ (Fedorov et al. 1992) can be effectively used for revealing species—specific genomic markers in different taxonomic groups. These taxonprint markers are found to be helpful for evaluation of the degree of species similarity between species, genera, and families. More than 50 species from different taxa were studied.
Green, K. (2019) -
Extensive fight wounds are common in co-habiting reptiles. This case study describes the management of a large fight wound in a 1-year-old entire female Tunisian eyed lizard. Primary closure was initially attempted but subsequent postoperative infection and wound breakdown led to successful management by secondary intention healing. This case demonstrates the amazing capacity for healing of large integument defects in lizards that receive appropriate medical support.
Greenbaum, E. & Dowell Beer, S. & Hughes, D.F. & Wagner, P. & Anderson, C.G. & Villanueva, C.O. & Malonza, P.K. & Kusamba, C. & Muninga, W.M. & Aristote, M.M. & Branch, W.R. (2018) -
Jackson’s Forest Lizard (Adolfus jacksoni) is widespread throughout the highlands of the Albertine Rift, southern Uganda, western and central Kenya, and northern Tanzania. To understand the population genetics and phylogenetic relationships of this widespread taxon, we sequenced two mitochondrial (16S and cyt b) and two nuclear (c-mos and RAG1) genes from multiple populations. Population genetics analyses suggested a high degree of genetic differentiation among A. jacksoni populations, reflecting the high-elevation montane ‘‘islands’’ that they inhabit. Populations connected by a network of mountain ranges generally showed lower levels of genetic partitioning than those isolated by lowelevation habitat. Results from phylogenetic analyses and additional morphological data indicated that Adolfus jacksoni occurs throughout the Albertine Rift, likely from the Kabobo Plateau to the Lendu Plateau of Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as southern Uganda, Mt. Elgon, and the highlands of western Kenya on the western side of the Kenyan Rift. Adolfus kibonotensis is removed from the synonymy of the latter taxon, elevated to full species, and recognized from the central Kenyan highlands to northern Tanzania on the eastern side of the Kenyan Rift. A new Adolfus species is described from the Mathews Range in central Kenya.
Greenbaum, E. & Villanueva, C.O. & Kusamba, C. & Aristote, M.M. & Branch, W.R. (2011) -
Currently, four species of the lacertid lizard genus Adolfus are known from Central and East Africa. We sequenced up to 2825 bp of two mitochondrial [16S and cytochrome b (cyt b)] and two nuclear [(c-mos (oocyte maturation factor) and RAG1 (recombination activating gene 1)] genes from 41 samples of Adolfus (representing every species), two species each of Gastropholis and Holaspis, and in separate analyses combined these data with GenBank sequences of all other Eremiadini genera and four Lacertini outgroups. Data from DNA sequences were analysed with maximum parsimony (PAUP), maximum-likelihood (RAxML) and Bayesian inference (MrBayes) criteria. Results demonstrated that Adolfus is not monophyletic: Adolfus africanus (type species), Adolfus alleni, and Adolfus jacksoni are sister taxa, whereas Adolfus vauereselli and a new species from the Itombwe Plateau of Democratic Republic of the Congo are in a separate lineage. Holaspis and Gastropholis were recovered in separate clades. Based on these molecular data, relatively substantial sequence divergence, and multiple morphological differences, we describe a new genus of lacertid for the lineage including A. vauereselli and the new Itombwe species. The recognition of this new, endemic genus underscores the conservation importance of the Albertine Rift, especially the Itombwe Plateau, a unique region that is severely threatened by unchecked deforestation, mining, and poaching.
Gregorovičová, M. & Černíková, A. (2015) -
The chemical defence of Heteroptera is primarily based on repellent secretions which signal the potential toxicity of the bug to its predators. We tested the aversive reactions of green lizards (Lacerta viridis) towards the major compounds of the defensive secretion of Graphosoma lineatum, specifically: (i) a mixture of three aldehydes: (E)-hex-2-enal, (E)-oct-2-enal, (E)-dec-2-enal; (ii) a mixture of these three aldehydes and tridecane; (iii) oxoaldehyde: (E)-4-oxohex-2-enal; (iv) secretion extracted from metathoracic scent glands of G. lineatum adults and (v) hexane as a non-polar solvent. All chemicals were presented on a palatable food (Tenebrio molitor larvae). The aversive reactions of the green lizards towards the mealworms were evaluated by observing the approach latencies, attack latencies and approach–attack intervals. The green lizards exhibited a strong aversive reaction to the mixture of three aldehydes. Tridecane reduced the aversive reaction to the aldehyde mixture. Oxoaldehyde caused the weakest, but still significant, aversive reaction. The secretion from whole metathoracic scent glands also clearly had an aversive effect on the green lizards. Moreover, when a living specimen of G. lineatum or Pyrrhocoris apterus (another aposematic red-and-black prey) was presented to the green lizards before the trials with the aldehyde mixture, the aversive effect of the mixture was enhanced. In conclusion, the mixture of three aldehydes had the strong aversive effect and could signal the potential toxicity of G. lineatum to the green lizards.
Gremlica, B. (2020) -
Gremlica, B. (2021) -
Gremlica, B. (2025) -
Gremlica, B. & G. Stein (2025) -
Gremmen, W.H.E. & Eijk, C.T.J.J. van (1973) -
Grenot, C. & Garcin, L. & Tséré-Pagès, H. (1996) -
Grenot, C. & Heulin, B. (1988) -
Grenot, C. & Heulin, B. (1990) -
Grenot, C. & Heulin, B. & Pilorge, T. & Khodadoost, M. & Ortega, A. & Mou, Y.-P. (1987) -
The water budget of the lizard Lacerta vivipara Jacquin was studied in one lowland and two montane field populations using tritiated water. In all cases, gravid adult females had lower water fluxes and turnover rates than males and yearlings; in the lowland population there were also differences between adult and yearling gravid females. When weighted for egg mass, gravid yearling females did not show any significant difference in water fluxes with non-gravid year- ling females. Water flux rates were positively related to the humidity of the biotope. Negative correlations exist between water flux rates and lizard mass and these are probably related to the decrease of the surface:volume ratio as body size increases. Positive correlations exist between flux differences and growth rates, demonstrating that water needs are related to energetic requirements, especially those concerned with growth and activity
Grenot, C.J. & Garcin, L. & Dao, J. & Herold, J.P. & Fahys, B. & Tsere-Pages, H. (2000) -
Although the European common lizard, Lacerta vivipara, is among the most common Eurasian reptile species, we know little about how these lizards cope with very low temperatures. In this study we examined microenvironmental conditions, body temperature, behavior, and cold strategies to see whether strategies of freezing and supercooling, while normally considered to be mutually exclusive, may in fact be adopted simultaneously by the common lizard. Following up on an earlier study of a lowland population, this time we used a mountain population (850 m) to discover differences in overwintering strategies between the two populations. Differential scanning calorimetry conducted during the hibernation period (vs. the activity period) showed that the blood of highland lizards had an increased ability to resist ice formation, confirming an ecophysiological effect most likely mediated by physical properties of the blood. Mean blood glucose level of unfrozen L. vivipara in the field increased significantly (about fourfold) from 8.5+/-0.7 mmol l(-1) in September to 33.2+/-5.6 mmol l(-1) in March. The blood glucose level then experienced a significant decline as it fell to 6. 2+/-0.8 mmol l(-1) after hibernation in April. Glucose, in conclusion, seems to play a role of cryoprotectant rather than antifreeze.
Grenot, C.J. & Garcin, L. & Voituron, Y. & Hérold, J.-P. & Tséré-Pagès, H. (1999) -
The European Common Lizard, Lacerta vivipara (L.v.) is one of the most widely distributed reptiles throughout Eurasia and occurs above the Artic Circle, in humid habitats. We have investigated several populations, particularly in a lowland (Brittany), we determined field hibernaculum sites, field water flux and metabolic rates of L.v. The second, a highland population (Jura Mountains), in which we determined microenvironmental conditions, body temperature, behaviour, cold tolerance, cryoprotectants. We have estimated the daily consumption (DW, dry weight): 13.6 mg DW. j-1. g-1 for July and 10.6 g DW. j-1. g-1 during the period from July to September. In freeze tolerance tests, L.v. remained supercooled for at least 21 days at - 3.5°C. But it can also survive freezing episodes in the field for about 3 days. L.v. is unique because it has both freeze tolerance and freeze avoidance capacities. The mean blood glucose level of L.v., in the field, increased significantly (about 4-6 fold) from September to January, from 4.3 mMol. L-1 to 19.8 mMol. L-1. These values confirm our previous study during winter 1995-96 in which the level of blood glucose of L.v. frozen in captivity was as high as in unfrozen lizard in the field, 33.2 mMol. L-1 in March. After the hibernation in April, the glycemia is characterised by a quick fall, the mean blood glucose level is 6.2 mMol. L-1. But another a new polyol was found, playing a major role in cell membranes and inside the cells with mes- senger function. It is 4 fold increase during the winter, this suggests its probably function for the overwintering metabolism. Supercooling can be considered as one of the key adaptations for cold tolerance which enable L.v. to resist the coldest winter environments.
Gressitt, J.L. (1938) -
Greven, H. (1988) -
Gribbins, K.M. & Gist, D.H. (2003) -
The annual cytological changes to the male germinal epithelium were investigated in an introduced population of European wall lizards (Podarcis muralis). Testicular tissues were collected, embedded, sectioned by an ultramicrotome, and stained with the PAS procedure followed by a toluidine counterstain. Spermatogenesis in the lizard is divided into the proliferative, meiotic, and maturational phases. Wall lizards have a prenuptial pattern of spermatogenesis, where sperm development begins immediately prior to and continues through the months of breeding (April-June). The testis then involutes, undergoes a short period of quiescence, and recrudescence commences in mid-July. Germ cells undergo proliferation, meiosis, and the early stages of spermiogenesis (maturation) from late July through December. However, the late stages of spermiogenesis are retarded from December through February. Spermiogenesis continues at an accelerated pace from March through May, leading to a single massive spermiation event through the month of June. Although spatial relationships are seen between germ cells within the seminiferous epithelium, accumulation of spermatids during winter and acceleration of elongation in spring prevents determination of consistent cellular associations between early and late developing germ cells within the wall lizard testis. This temporal germ cell development is different from the consistent spatial development seen within seasonally breeding birds and mammals and may represent an evolutionary intermediate in terms of amniotic germ cell development.
Griend, R.P. v.d. (1948) -
Griffin, M. (2002) -
An annotated checklist of indigenous and potentially indigenous Namibian terrestrial, aquatic and marine reptiles is presented. The purpose is to serve as an interim description of Namibian reptile diversity, to establish a taxonomic and biogeographical baseline, and as a preliminary review of the conservation status of Namibian reptiles. Two hundred and forty species of indigenous reptiles are presently known to occur in Namibia. These species comprise an array of approximately 265 described (but not always recognized) taxa, several of which are probably unwarranted. Species accounts are presented for all these species. Four accounts are for new species currently being described. Nineteen species have not yet been recorded from Namibia, but are expected to (accounts given) and another 6 species are less likely to occur (no accounts given). Full accounts are given for the 17 species which have been formally recorded in the past, but the lack of recent evidence suggests that the species is now locally extinct, the original report erroneous, or the species’ occurred as vagrants. Four additional species had been included on various published lists in the past, but have never been formally documented, no specimens are known to exist, and it is unlikely that the species would occur today even as vagrants (no accounts given). In total, 276 species-accounts are presented. Each account cites the original reference and type locality for each taxon, and a short description of the Namibian distribution. Emphasis is placed on Namibian and international legal and conservation status. Eighty-five species (33%) were found to be of local conservation concern. Gaps in knowledge (e.g. taxonomy, biogeography, and conservation status), where future research should be directed, are noted.
Grignon, G. & Grignon, M. (1961) -
Grillet, P. (1999) -
Grillet, P. (2002) -
Grillet, P. (2008) -
Grillet, P. & Cheylan, M. & Dusoulier, F. (2006) -
The French Mediterranean region provides an ideal situation to study distribution changes that may be related to climate change. At the northern limits of the Mediterranean region one would predict a northward migration of thermophilous species adapted to the Mediterranean climate. This prediction was tested on the Ocellated Lizard, Lacerta lepida, a species typical of open habitats in the western Mediterranean. The habitats of 10 populations situated near the northern limit of the species’ distribution were studied using aerial photography. During the last 50 years an important loss of open habitats was noted as a result of woodland encroachment and loss of habitat to cultivation. This has led to the fragmentation and isolation of populations which may be the cause of their rapid decline. Our study shows that the evolution of the landscape due to the abandonment of extensive grazing (with subsequent tree re-colonisation or farming of formerly grazed parcels) plays a major role in the spatial dynamics of certain mediterranean animal species. In the case of the Ocellated Lizard the evolution of the landscape has caused a regression of populations at the northern limit of the species` distribution, hence the prediction extension due to climate change is not observed.
Grillet, P. & Cheylan, M. & Thirion, J.-M. & Doré, F. & Bonnet, X. & Dauge, C. & Chollet, S. & Marchand, M.A. (2010) -
Refuges are crucial for most animal species as they offer essential protection against predators and provide buffered environmental conditions to their occupants. Our data show that northern populations of the threatened ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus) depend on the availability of the burrows excavated by the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). In the last decade, a severe decline in rabbit populations has had a disastrous effect on lizard numbers. To compensate for the lack of refuges, artificial shelters were constructed in autumn 2005 and 2007 and were monitored the following years (2006-2009). Most of the artificial refuges were rapidly occupied by lizards, notably juveniles, suggesting that this technique was successful to improve lizard habitat. Because other factors such as food resources might be also crucial, further assessments are required to determine if artificial refuges are sufficient to stem population decline. These results nonetheless provide an encouraging option to maintain and/or to restore threatened populations, for instance through a buffering of rabbit burrow fluctuations. More generally, the availability of suitable refuges (e.g. natural or artificial) is likely to be a central component for the conservation of many reptile species. The combination of empirical and experimental data further demonstrates that great attention must be paid to the structure and distribution of the refuges and that simple practical actions can effectively improve habitat quality for threatened species.
Grillet, P. & Cheylan, M. & Thirion, J.M. (2002) -
Grillet, P. & Cheylan, M. & Thirion, J.M. & Doré, F. & Bonnet, X. & Dauge, C. & Chollet, S. & Marchand, M.A. (2010) -
Refuges are crucial for most animal species as they offer essential protection against predators and provide buffered environmental conditions to their occupants. Our data show that northern populations of the threatened ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus) depend on the availability of the burrows excavated by the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). In the last decade, a severe decline in rabbit populations has had a disastrous effect on lizard numbers. To compensate for the lack of refuges, artificial shelters were constructed in autumn 2005 and 2007 and were monitored the following years (2006–2009). Most of the artificial refuges were rapidly occupied by lizards, notably juveniles, suggesting that this technique was successful to improve lizard habitat. Because other factors such as food resources might be also crucial, further assessments are required to determine if artificial refuges are sufficient to stem population decline. These results nonetheless provide an encouraging option to maintain and/or to restore threatened populations, for instance through a buffering of rabbit burrow fluctuations. More generally, the availability of suitable refuges (e.g. natural or artificial) is likely to be a central component for the conservation of many reptile species. The combination of empirical and experimental data further demonstrates that great attention must be paid to the structure and distribution of the refuges and that simple practical actions can effectively improve habitat quality for threatened species.
Grillet, P. & Doré, F. & Bernard, V. & Cheylan, M. & Laborde, S. (2012) -
Grillet, P. & Doré, F. & Cheylan, M. & Dauge, C. & Laborde, S. (2013) -
Grillet, P. & Doré, F. & Thirion, J.M. & Cheylan, M. & Dauge, C. (2008) -
Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.-M. (2001) -
Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.M. (1999) -
Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.M. & Cheylan, M. (2010) -
The pattern of the yearly feeding activity of the Ocellated Lizard population on Oleron Island was studied during two one-year periods by collecting the lizards’ faeces along a transect. Collected faeces (753 in 2002, 646 in 2006) allowed understanding in more detail the quantity of the lizards’ food catch over a yearly cycle. Population feeding activity starts in the second 10-day period of March and ends in the third 10-day period of October. The peak of feeding activity was in May in 2002, and in June - July in 2006. This is explained mainly by the length of the day and the average temperature, and to a much lesser extent by the amount of sunshine or rainfall (calculated by multiple linear regression analysis). Findings were that in spite of the extreme geographical position of the Oleron Island population, the pattern of feeding activity varies little from that observed in the Ocellated Lizard populations in the south of France and central Spain. With some conditions, the faeces-collection study method could be used for long-term population monitoring
Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.M. & Chollet, S. & Marchand, M.S. & Dauge, C. (2007) -
Grillitsch, B. (1985) -
Grillitsch, H. & Cabela, A. (1992) -
The attempt is made to define the distributional patterns of the reptiles in Carinthia (Austria) by selected parameters of climat and vegetation.
Grillitsch, H. & Cabela, A. (2001) -
Grillitsch, H. & Cabela, A. (2002) -
Grillitsch, H. & Cabela, A. & Tiedemann, F. (2001) -
Grillitsch, H. & Tiedemann, F. (1984) -
Between April 22 and May 30, 1980 herpetological field studies and collecting trips were undertaken on the Greek islands Kea, Spanopoula, Kithnos, Sifnos, Kitriani (Cyclades) Alonissos and Piperi (Northern Sporades). Collected specimens as well as data taken from the literature lead to an actual list of occuring species, completed by some biological observations. Collecting sites are shown in maps. Ten species of amphibians and reptiles are recorded from these islands for the first time.
Grillitsch, H. & Tiedemann, F. (1986) -
Grimm, A. & Henle, K. (2013) -
Many analyses of reptile ecology require knowledge of specific life-history traits. However, a comparison between different species is rare and the access to a huge amount of data is limited. Therefore, we are collecting data of all European reptile species from different sources and published in different languages. Our main focus is phenology (hibernation, aestiva- tion, activity, breeding period etc.) separated by country of observation as well as dispersal and movement data. Our relational database will provide a sufficient basis for reptile ecology analyses and comparisons between species and countries. Searches by species and countries as well as different phenological and dispersal traits or references used for comparisons will be possible. As an example, we are using the data for a climate change modeling approach to account for the fact that species traits might affect species` ability to adapt to a changing environment. The open access database will be available online by the end of the year on www. scales-project. net.
Grimm, H.G. (1886) -
Grismer, L.L. (2011) -
Grismer, L.L. & Neang, T. & Chav, T. & Wood, P.L. Jr. & Oaks, J.R. Holden, J. & Grismer, J.L. & Szutz, T.R. & Youmans, T.M. (2008) -
Nineteen novel records of amphibians and reptiles (eight frogs, seven lizards, and four snakes) from the northwestern portion of the Cardamom Mountains are reported. Six of these, including three undescribed species, are new records for Cambodia. This underscores the importance of the Cardamom Mountains and Cambodia as a whole in biodiversity estimates of Indochina and the extent to which it still remains understudied.
Grismer, L.L. & Quah, E.S.H. (2019) -
Since the book-formatted, monographic treatment of the lizards of Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, and their adjacent is-lands by Grismer (2011), 47 additional species have been added to that fauna bringing the total to 174. One species, Cyr-todactylus stresemanni, was removed from the lizard fauna based on its likely mislabeled type locality; 44 species were described as new—29 gekkonids, 11 scincids, five agamids, and one dibamid; and three others, Cnemaspis narathiwaten-sis, Cyrtodactylus brevipalmatus, and Scincella melanosticta were recently discovered in northern Peninsular Malaysia. Taxonomic changes for seven previously described species occurring after 2011 are noted and significant, new locality records are documented here for additional species. The intent of this review is to provide an up to date peer-reviewed checklist for the lizard species of this region prior to a pending updated book monograph.
Groddeck, J. & Schmidt, P. (2006) -
Groddeck, J. & Schmidt, P. & Elbing, K. & Schneeweiß, N. (2006) -
Groddeck, J. & Schmidt, P. & Hachtel, M. (2006) -
Grodzinski, Z. (1949) -
Groenveld, A. (2003) -
Groenveld, A. (2009) -
Grosse, W.-R. (1977) -
Grosse, W.-R. (2008) -
Die Verbreitung der Reptilien im Stadtgebiet von Halle/Saale (Sachsen-Anhalt) wird beschrieben. Dazu gibt es einen großen Fundus historischer Daten. Die aktuellen Daten von 1963-2006 wurden in Verbreitungskarten dargestellt und durch Angaben zur Habitatnutzung, zur Phänologie und zur Gefährdung ergänzt. Gegenwärtig kommen drei autochthone Reptilienarten in der Stadt Halle vor, wovon die Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) die häufigste ist. Ringelnatter (Natrix natrix) und Blindschleiche (Anguis fragilis) sind dagegen seltener. Die Waldeidechse (Zootoca vivipara) gilt seit den 1970er Jahren als verschollen. Die Herkunft der neuerdings beobachteten Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) ist unbekannt. Die xerothermophilen Zauneidechsen leben an sonnenexponierten Habitaten vorwiegend im nördlichen Saaletal von Halle, wo sie in den Porphyrkuppen nördlich und südlich der Saale und im Saaletal selbst und auf der angrenzenden Hochfläche am Südwestrand der Dölauer Heide stellenweise sehr große Populationen aufbauen. Die Blindschleiche zeigte in der Stadt Halle deutlich eine enge Bindung an mäßig feuchte Waldhabitate und deren Randlagen. Sie kommt fast ausschließlich im Nordwesten der Stadt in der Dölauer Heide vor. Eine kleine Population lebt im Stadtzentrum im Botanischen Garten. Historische Daten legen nahe, dass die Ringelnatter etwa seit den 1940er Jahren aus der Saaleaue im Norden und im Süden in das Stadtgebiet eingewandert ist. Als Bewohner der Feuchtgebiete lebt sie im Bereich von Gewässern in den Randzonen im Norden (Dölauer Heide, dem Brandberggebiet und den Mötzlicher Teichen). Hier wurden auch regelmäßig Gelege und Jungtiere nachgewiesen. Im Osten der Stadt gelangen nur Einzelnachweise bei Kanena, bei Osendorf und bei der Reidemündung bei Döllnitz. Der Botanische Garten, mitten im Siedlungsgebiet liegend, bietet zeitweise einzelnen Ringelnattern Unterschlupf. Der Getraudenfriedhof im Norden der Stadt scheint dagegen ein dauerhaftes Vorkommen zu beherbergen (jährlich Funde von Jungtieren). Für alle drei Reptilienarten ist das Zurückdrängen der Tiere auf periphere Saum- und Restflächen typisch. Die intensive Landnutzung und die gestiegene Zahl verwildeter Katzen gefährden die Bestände. Hohe Schutzprioritäten besitzen strukturreiche Trockenbiotope, Waldrandlagen und urbane Hinterlassenschaften wie Schotterhalden, Bahndämme und Abbaugebiete von Erdstoffen.
Grosse, W.-R. (2009) -
The distribution of the reptiles of the cities of Halle (Saxony-Anhalt) and Leipzig (Saxony) is described. A big fund of historical data of the distribution it exists. Recent data of 1961-2008 are shown and in formations on habitate use, phenology and status of threat are added. The biodiversity of the reptiles decreases from the periphery of the town to the city centre. In the historical old towns no reptiles occure. The periphery of both towns, mainly characterised by agriculture and industry hosts an extremely low number of reptile species. Occurrence of national importance can be found in the floodplains of the south and northwest of both towns. These locations are hot spots of reptile species diversity. Currently three autochthonous reptile species occur in the city of Halle and five autochthonous species in the city of Leipzig. The Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) is the most frequent species. The Gras snake (Natrix natrix) and the Slow worm (Anguis fragilis) are rarer compared to it. The Viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara) occurs only in Leipzig. Since the end of the 1980s there was no record on the European Pond tortoise (Emys orbicularis), which is possibly extinct. The origin of the recently +observed Wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in Halle is unknown.
Grosse, W.-R. (2012) -
Grosse, W.-R. & Hofmann, S. & Berger, H. (2006) -
Grosse, W.-R. & Ludwig, M. (2018) -
Grosse, W.-R. & Meyer, F. (1998) -
Grosse, W.-R. & Seyring, M. (2015) -
Grosse, W.-R. & Seyring, M. (2018) -
Grosse, W.-R. & Seyring, M. & Zuppke, U. (2024) -
Grosse, W.-R. & Teufert, S. (2022) -
Großhans, J. (1993) -
Großhans, J. (1994) -
Großhans, R. (2017) -
Grossmann, W. (2005) -
Field observations of Joger`s Maghreb lizard, Teira dugesii jogeri (BISCHOFF, OSENEGG & MAYER, 1989), were made duringthree brief visits to the island of Porto Santo. Information on ecological niche utilization and behavior is provided. The threetypes of resting positioning previously described for Teira dugesii Arc complemented by a fourth type for the subspeciesjogeri. In addition, data on the variability of colour and pattern is made available, mainly in the form of photographs. Thewide food spectrum is described, and the threats facing these lizards in the form of possible predators and man are discussed.Key words: Reptilia: Squamata: Lacertidae: Lacertinae: Teira dugesii jogeri (BISCHOFF, OSENEGG & MAYER, 1989): behaviour;diet; colour and pattern variability; Europe: Portugal: Makaronesian Islands: Madeira Archipelago: Porto Santo.
Grossmann, W. (2008) -
Syntopic colonies of Gallot`s lizard and the Canary wall gecko were observed basking on a lava rock demarca- tion wall at a tourist resort on Teneriffe Island. While the lizards showed a reduced escape distance of about 40 cm towards humans, dogs, and pigeons, the geckos had assumed a nearly black colouration, matching that of the lava rock, and could be approached and picked up without their responding defensively. When a cat came strolling down the crown of the wall, the lizards suddenly reverted to escape distances of 5+ metres. Adults re- sponded first, triggering the flight of younger specimens. The geckos did not take notice of the passing cat, even though it walked by some as close as 25 cm. It would thus appear a.) that local lizards have learnt to differentiate between `harmless` (tourists, dogs, pigeons) and `potentially dangerous` (cats) passers-by; and b.) that younger generations learn appropriate defensive responses from older specimens. The lack of any defensive response by the geckos might have to do with a.) their being blinded by the bright sun, or b.) total reliance on camouflage. Comparative observations on Tarentola mauritanica on Gozo Island (Malta) seem to disprove the former expla- nation, as these would maintain escape distances of 5-10 m even in bright sunlight. These observation comple- ment, and in part contradict, previous summaries of these species` defensive behavioural patterns.
Grossmann, W. (2009) -
Grossmann, W. (2014) -
Es wird über die Sichtung einer in einem schlechten körperlichern Zustand befindlichen, aber dennoch agilen Gallotia galloti eisentrauti im Norden Teneriffas berichtet. Über die Bedeutung dieser Beobachtung für die Terrarist wird diskutiert.
Grossmann, W. (2019) -
Ich berichte über ein Echsenbiotop, in dem wir innerhalb kurzer Zeit drei Arten Lacertiden und eine tagaktive Geckoart fanden. Das Habitat dieser Echsengemeinschaft liegt knapp oberhalb 2200 m +ü.d.M. auf der Nordseite des Hohen Atlas in Marokko.
Grossmann, W. (2022) -
Grossmann, W. (2023) -
The phenomenon of the formation of more than one tail in lizards and its causes are addressed. The lizard with the maximum number of degenerate tails at present is pointed out. In the following, a male Podarcis pityusensis pityusensis with two tails is reported. Finally, the lack of regenerative capacity in very old lizards is proven on the basis of own experience.
Grossmann, W. & Kowalski, T. & Zilger, H.-J. (2012) -
Grossmann, W. & Kowalski, T.& Zilger, H.-J. (2012) -
Grossmann, W. & Zwanzig, B.-M. & Kowalski, T. & Zilger, H.-J. (2013) -
Die kürzlich erstellten Checklisten der Amphibien und Reptilien für den Jebel al-Akhdar und im Besonderen für das Saiq-Plateau (Kowalski et al. 2011, Grossmann et al. 2012) werden durch die Ergebnisse einer weiteren, im Juni 2013 auf dem Saiq-Plateau durchgeführten Exkursion ergänzt. Dieser Besuch erbrachte den Erstnachweis für Echis omanensis, sowie neue Erkenntnisse an anderen Taxa der Herpetofauna. Damit sind nun zwei Amphibien- und Reptilientaxa für das Saiq-Plateau bekannt.
Groupe Mammalogique et Herpétologique du Limousin (2013) -
Grozdanov, A. & Peshev, H. & Stoynov, E. & Vangelova, N. & Leest, M. van & Wielpstra, H. & Parvanov, D. (2016) -
Due to its species richness, Kresna Gorge is relatively well investigated in herpetological aspect. However, almost all of the researchers concentrate their efforts in the well-known biodiversity hot spots situated in the middle and the southern parts of the area, thus leaving the northern parts almost unexplored. Most of the locations of the researched species presented in this work are newly identi ed, since the areas of investigation remained out of the scope of the majority of scientists. In addition the research presents some of the conservation measures in the area, taken by the non-governmental organization Fund for Wild Flora and Fauna (FWFF), which directly affected the prosperity of the researched species populations. The identi ed nature conservation bene ts and possible fails of these measures were evaluated.
Grozdanov, A.P. & Tzankov, N.D. (2014) -
Sexual size dimorphism or SSD is widespread among many species of reptiles. The present research aims to analyze and compare the SSD in two lacertid lizards in Bulgaria – the Green lizard (Lacerta viridis) and the lowland subspecies of the Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis chersonensis). Ten experimental territories were selected in Sofi a and Plovdiv plains and neighboring areas. A total of 68 sand lizards and 65 green lizards were analyzed. For every individual were measured or counted 8 metric traits (transformed in to 12 indexes) and 12 meristic traits. Data scores were analyzed by mean of uni- and multivariate statistical technique. Investigating the meristic traits, we found statistically signifi cant differences only in the number of horizontal lines of ventral shields between sexes in both species. Concerning the metric traits and indexes, we found statistically signifi cant tendencies for larger absolute and relative head size in male sand lizards in comparison with females. In green lizard we stated similar signifi cant tendency for larger head size and larger absolute and relative size of legs in male individuals. The presented results could be explained with the different roles of the sexes of those two species. SSD is more prominent in green lizard in comparison with sand lizard. In conclusion all that factors lead to bigger morphological differences between sexes in green lizards.
Grozdanov, A.P. & Tzanlov, N.D. & Andres, C. & Popova, S.G. (2014) -
Microhabitat selection is an important tool for spatial segregation among sexes and age classes in lizards. This study explored the microhabitat use in both sexes of Lacerta agilis chersonensis at different ontogenetic stages in order to test the generalist/specialist hypothesis already stated to be valid for this species. The study area situated in the Sofia plain, Western Bulgaria includes five isolated polygons. Both sexes were separated into groups according to age class. A total of 68 specimens were studied (18 adult and 16 juvenile females, 20 adult and 14 juvenile males). For every specimen microhabitat characteristics at 100 square meters around the observation point were recorded and classified into the next categories: grass density (4 classes), grass height (3 classes), presence/absence of country roads, trees, shrubs, stones and artificial shelters. Multivariate analyses by means of correspondent analyses well separated the four designated groups. Males were mostly found in the microhabitats with shrubs and tall/dense grasses. Females were affiliated to a microhabitat with lower height and density of grasses than males and commonly used artificial shelters. A clear segregation among sexes at their juvenile stage was also demonstrated. Grass height and density seem to be important parameters for microhabitat selection of the different age-sex classes. The present research confirms the sand lizard as an important indicator species for estimating of pasture habitats quality according to the proved selection of grass with different density and height and other microhabitat elements. The species could be used as indicator of changes in the land use and should be treated as vulnerable from human activities. The presented information could be implemented in planning of different management regimes for the pastures as one of the most important agricultural habitats and at the same time natural environment of many protected or endangered species.
Gruber, H.-J. & Heckes, U. & Hess, M. (1993) -
Gruber, U. (1971) -
Gruber, U. (1986) -
Gruber, U. (1994) -
In diesem Naturführer werden auf über 100 Farbfotos alle mitteleuroipäischen Arten und darüber hinaus auch süd- und osteuropäische vorgestellt: Frösche, Kröten, Molche und Salamander, Schildkröten, Echsen und Schlangen. Fachkundige Texte informirern über Kennzeichen, Vorkommrn, Verhalten, Fortpflanzung, Ernährung und Besonderheiten. Der bewährte Kosmos-Farbcode teilt die Amphibien und Reptilien nach ihrer Verwandtschaft in 5 Gruppen ein und erleichtert so die Bestimmung. Die praktischen Klappen bieten interessante Zusatzinformationen über Froschlurchentwicklung, Laichformen und anatomischen Besonderheiten bei Reptilien.
Gruber, U. & D. Fuchs (1977) -
Im Verlauf einer von der Deutschen Forschungsgemeinschaft finanzierten Reise nach Griechenland bereisten die Verfasser vom 23. bis 29. April 1972 den Paros-Archipel in der Zentral-Ägäis. Der Deutschen Forschungsgemeinschaft sei an dieser Stelle für ihre großzügige Unterstützung gedankt. Danken möchten wir auch Herrn Dr. W. BÖHME, der Vergleichsmaterial aus den umfangreichen Beständen des Zoologischen Forschungsinstituts und Museums A. Koenig in Bonn zur Verfügung stellte, die F. BUCHHOLZ auf mehreren Griechenlandreisen gesammelt hatte. Neben Paros und Antiparos, den beiden größten Inseln, konnten wir mit einem gemieteten Fischerboot den folgenden unbewohnten Inselchen des Archipels einen Besuch abstatten: Despotiko, Strongylo, Tourlos, Preza, Glaropunta und Panteronisi in der südlichen Inselgruppe sowie Ovriokastro und Gaidaronisi vor der Nordküste von Paros. Insgesamt konnten wir hier 13 Arten von Amphibien und Reptilien nachweisen: Rana ridibunda, Mauremys caspica, Cyrtodactylus kotschyi, H emidactylus turcicus, Agama stellio, Podarcis erhardii, Lacerta trilineata, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Eryx jaculus, Elaphe quatuorlineata, Natrix natrix, Telescopus fallax und Vipera ammodytes. Diese von uns im Jahre 1972 eingebrachten Informationen werden ergänzt durch Angaben anderer Autoren (BUCHHOLZ 1955; CLARK 1965, 1967, 1968a, 1968b, 1970, 1971, 1972; WERNER 1938; WETTSTEIN 1953, 1957). Dadurch wird zwar die Anzahl der untersuchten Inseln vergrößert (Spiridonisi, Tria Nisia-Inseln; WETTSTEIN 1957), das Artenspektrum aber nur um Testudo marginata (CLARK 1970) und Elaphe situla (BUCHHOLZ 1955) erweitert.
Gruber, U. & Schultze-Westrum, T. (1971) -
Grüll, A. (1989) -
Four partially melanotic specimens of the Sand Lizard, tacerla agilis LINNAEUS, were observed in south-eastern Waldviertel, Lower Austria. Pattern and coloration are descri- bed and compared with data taken out of the literature. All shades of melanism in this species are supposed to occur independent of climate and biotope.
Grün, H. (1935) -
Grundy, G.C. & Wurst, G.Z. (1976) -
The occurrence of parietal eyes among lizards (Suborder Lacertilia) was determined by examining museum specimens and noting the presence of a parietal `spot`. The parietal `spot` is a reliable indication of the presence of an underlying parietal eye. The parietal eye is absent in Dibamidae, Pygopodidae, Helodermatidae, Lanthanotidae, Anelytropsidae, Gekkonidae, and Teiidae. It is present in most members of Xantusiidae, Scincidae, Cordylidae, Lacertidae, Varanidae, Anniellidae, Anguidae, Xenosauridae, Iguanidae, Agamidae, and Chameleontidae.
Grünwald, H. (1994) -
A report ist given on a new finding of a female of Lacerta agilis in the upper Gößgraben/Carinthia in a height of about 1740 m, dated of June 16, 1992. The ecological status of the habitat is described and a lot of essential questions e. g. on problems of the thermal energy of this species, the voluntary temperature and thermal regulation are formulated.
Gruschwitz, M. (1985) -
Gruschwitz, M. (1990) -
Gruschwitz, M. (1992) -
Gruschwitz, M. & Böhme, W. (1986) -
Gruschwitz, M. & Braun, U. & Schneider, W. & Lenz, S. & Thomas, F. (1984) -
Grushko, M.P. (2009) -
In work results of studying hemopoiesis formations of a digestive tract of the nimble lizard (Lacerta agilis (Linnaeus, 1758)) are resulted{brought}. The basic features of localization and structure of hemopoietic tissue are specific, the detailed characteristic of a qualitative and quantitative compound of formed blood cells is given. It is established, that in own plastic of a mucous membrane drinks, thin intestines, a blind gut, thick intestines and a foul place the lizard has agglomerations of hemopoietic tissue where cells agranulocytopoietic and granulocytopoietic numbers were formed. Among agranulocytes have been revealed formed lyphocytes and plazmocytes, and among granulocytes formed eosinophyles and neutrophyles.
Грушко, М.П. (2009) -
В работе приведены результаты изучения кроветворных образований пищеварительного тракта прыткой ящерицы (Lacerta agilis (Linnaeus, 1758)). Определены основные особенности локализа- ции и строения кроветворной ткани, дана подробная характеристика качественного и количест- венного состава образующихся клеток крови. Установлено, что в собственной пластике слизистой оболочки глотки, тонкого кишечника, слепой кишки, толстого кишечника и клоаке у ящерицы имеются скопления кроветворной ткани, где формировались клетки аранулоцитопоэтического и гранулоцитопоэтического рядов. Среди агранулоцитов были выявлены формирующиеся лимфоци- ты и плазмоциты, а среди гранулоцитов формирующиеся эозинофилы и нейтрофилы.
Grybinik, S. (2017) -
Grycynska-Siemiatkowska, A. & Diedlecka, A. & Stanczak, J. & Barkowska, M. (2007) -
Sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) were trapped and examined for ticks from May to September in 2002 and 2003 in Northeastern Poland. A total of 233 Ixodes ricinus (L.) ticks (76 larvae and 157 nymphs) was found on 31 of 235 captured lizards (13.2%). The tick infestation is relatively low compared to that of mammals and passerine birds from the same area (Siñski et al. 2006, Gryczyñska et al. 2002). Tick infestation depended on the month of capture, being the highest in spring. In autumn no ticks were recorded on any of the captured lizards. The oldest lizards carried the highest number of ticks but no differences related to sex of the host were found. All the collected ticks were analysed by PCR for the presence of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, the etiological agents of Lyme disease. Spirochetes were detected in 11 out of 233 (4.7%) ticks tested. Genetic analysis confirmed that the spirochetes are members of the Borrelia afzelii, B. garinii and B. burgdorferi sensu stricto genospecies. Mixed infection were not detected. The prevalence of infection was analysed in relation to months of the capture, age and sex of the lizards, but differences were not statistically significant. The obtained results suggest that lizards are probably not B. burgdorferi reservoirs, but further studies are required to confirm this.
Guareschi, C. (1948) -
Guarino, F.M. & Crovetto, F. & Mezzasalma, M. & Salvidio, S. (2015) -
We studied population size and age structure and of the sand lizard Lacerta agilis Linnaeus 1758, from northwest Italian Alps, during 2011 and 2012. Twenty-nine (9 males, 15 females, 5 juveniles) and 19 (8 males, 5 females, 6 juveniles) lizards were captured in 2011 and 2012, respectively. Adult population size, estimated by capture-mark-recapture, was 54 individuals in 2011 and 39 in 2012. Mean SVL did not significantly differ between males sampled in the two years of the study (mean ± SD, 2011: 67.1 ± 6.6 mm; 2012: 61 ± 8.7 mm). On the contrary, females sampled in 2011 were significantly larger (73 ± 7.2 mm) than females of 2012 (61 ± 7.4 mm). Adult age, assessed by skeletochronology, ranged 2-5 years both in males and females. All juveniles were one-year old. In both years of sampling there was no significant difference in mean age between the sexes. Males were represented mainly by three and four-year old individuals in 2011 and by two-year old individuals in 2012. Females were represented mainly by three -year old individuals in 2011 and by two-year old individuals in 2012. However, age distribution of adults did not differ for each sex as well as between the sexes both in 2011 and 2012. Although our results showed that the examined population of L. agilis has a stable demographic structure, it should be considered seriously vulnerable, because it is relatively isolated from other neighboring populations, has small absolute size and, therefore, may be highly exposed to negative effects of habitat degradation.
Guarino, F.M. & Di Già, I. & Sindaco, R. (2010) -
We studied growth and longevity of Lacerta agilis from a sample (34 adults and 2 small-sized juveniles) of a population living at high altitude in north-western Italy using skeletochronological method. Snout vent length (SVL) mean of males did not significantly differ from that of females although the latter were in average bigger (SVL ± SD, males: 69.3 ± 7.1 mm, n = 11; females: 73.9 ± 9.7 mm, n = 22; Mann-Whitney U-test, U = 1.76, P = 0.077). Age ranged from 2 to 4 years (mean age ± SD = 2.3 ± 0.2) in males and from 2 to 3 years in females (mean age ± SD = 2.59 ± 0.5 years). Age mean did not significantly differ between the sexes (Mann-Whitney U-test, U = 1.35, P = 0.174). The two juveniles were 30 and 32 mm in SVL and both were 1-2 months old. In both sexes, a significant positive correlation between SVL and age was recorded although weakly significant for males (Spearman’s correlation coefficient, males: rs = 0.70, P = 0.05; females: rs = 0.75, P < 0.001). Von Bertalanffy growth curves well fitted to the relationships between age and SVL and showed a different profile between males (asymptotics size, SVLmax = 81.9 mm; growth coefficient, k = 0.63) and females (SVLmax = 100 mm; k = 0.40). Results indicate that individuals of L. agilis studied by us are short-living when compared with other populations of the same species.
Guarino, F.M. & Maio, N. (2013) -
Gubanyi, J. (1996) -
Gubanyi, J. (2000) -
Gubanyi, J. (2007) -
Gubanyi, J. & Gubanyi, J. (1997) -
Gubanyi, J.E. (1999) -
Güçlü, Ö. & Olgun, K. (2008) -
In the present study the specimens captured from northern and southern parts of the Büyük Menderes River have been examined to solve the problematic taxonomic status of Lacerta danfordi. A total of 105 specimens, 51 from the northern localities (Kalamaki and Kula + Paşa Plateau - 21 males, 19 females, 5 subadult males, 6 subadult females), 54 from the southern localities (Honaz Mountain and Çine + Herakleia - 24males, 21females, 6 subadult males, 3 subadult females) were examined in terms of 15 pholidotic characters, 11 morphometric measurements, ratios and indices as well as color-pattern features. There are not any obvious differences between northern and southern populations of the Büyük Menderes River in respect to color and pattern characteristics. Nevertheless, according to the statistics performed there is no doubt that there is a differentiation taxonomically in respect to pholidotic as well as morphometrical ratios and indices between these two populations. As a result, in order to support some of the previous studies performed to date, populations located in the northern part and southern part of the study area need to be considered as L. anatolica and L. oertzeni, respectively.
Guérin-Méneville, F. E. (1829) -
Guerriero, G. & D`Errico, G. & Maio, A. de & Bianchi, A.R. & Olanrewaju, O.S. & Ciarcia, G. (2018) -
Recent developments in applied research have led to implement novel operative protocols for life-based restoration of contaminated soils, including new monitoring approach. Here, we report the measurements of reactive oxygen species (ROS) content in lizard testis performed in the framework of the project Life Ecoremed. The ROS levels detected by electron spın resonance (ESR) spectroscopy using the spin-trapping technique were analyzed and validated using measurements of total soluble antioxidant capacity and the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase enzymatic activity, which detect the gonadal antioxidant defense and DNA repair, respectively. The investigations on soil biosentinel Podarcis sicula reproductive health gave significant evidence that the ROS level in the testis well correlates with alteration of the antioxidant capacity. In specimens coming from polluted sites, before remediation, a significant increase of ROS content was detected respect to that found in specimens from an unpolluted site. Thereafter, an evident decrease of the ROS levels, corresponding to high levels of total soluble antioxidant capacity and low repair of DNA integrity, has been detected after remediation. Thus, the data relative to all the polluted sites examined support the testis of Podarcis sicula as an elective tissue for an innovative and reliable screening method, based on ESR analysis of ROS, in the soil remediation assessment.
Guerriero, G. & D`Errico, G.R. di & Rabbito, D. & Olanrewaju, O.S. & Ciarcia, G. (2017) -
Important toxicological achievements have been made during the last decades using reptiles. We focus our investigation on gonadal reproductive health of the soil biosentinel Podarcis sicula which is very sensitive to endocrine-disrupting chemicals. The aim of this study is to quantitatively detect, by sensitive microassays, reactive oxygen species and the glutathione antioxidants in the testis and investigate if they are differentially expressed before and after remediation of a site of the “Land of Fires” (Campania, Italy) subject to illicit dumping of unknown material. The oxidative stress level was evaluated by electron spin resonance spectroscopy applying a spin-trapping procedure able to detect products of lipid peroxidation, DNA damage and repair by relative mobility shift, and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase enzymatic activity, respectively, the expression of glutathione peroxidase 4 transcript by real-time quantitative PCR analysis, the antioxidant glutathione S-transferase, a well-assessed pollution index, by enzymatic assay and the total soluble antioxidant capacity. Experimental evidences from the different techniques qualitatively agree, thus confirming the robustness of the combined experimental approach. Collected data, compared to those from a reference unpolluted site constitute evidence that the reproductive health of this lizard is impacted by pollution exposure. Remediation caused significant reduction of reactive oxygen species and downregulation of glutathione peroxidase 4 mRNAs in correspondence of reduced levels of glutathione S-transferase, increase of antioxidant capacity, and repair of DNA integrity. Taken together, our results indicate directions to define new screening approaches in remediation assessment.
Guerriero, G. & Parisi, C. & Abdel-Gawad, F.K. & Hentari, O. & D`Errico, G. (2019) -
There is rising concern for the interaction of environmental contaminants with brain transcriptome and the potential effect on reproductive processes. The present study sought to determine selenoprotein glutathione peroxidase 4 (gpx4) transcriptional activity in the brain and testis of the soil biosentinel, Podarcis sicula, through the main phases of the reproductive cycle and whether pharmaceuticals exert an endocrine disruption. Based on gpx4 cloned amminoacids sequence (GenBank AEX09236.1.), we used a bioinformatic approach to assess the structural role. Specifically, we detected seasonally the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level using electron spin resonance spectroscopy and gpx4 transcriptional activity using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. In addition, the impact of pharmaceuticals was assessed after 21‐days of treatment with ICI 182,780 and human chorionic gonadotropin administration in mating and winter stasis, respectively. Bioinformatic data shows the gpx4 proteic activity and a phylogenetic profile. ROS contents in lizard brain are significantly less than in testis and display higher levels after treatments. Brain gpx4 expression gives statistically significant seasonal differences, opposite trends in testis and altered expression in both tissues, with evidence of testis morphological and DNA disruption. Taken together, these results provide direct evidence that gpx4 in P. sicula plays a seasonal regulatory role and may be a reliable biomarker for reproductive health toxicity screening.
Guerriero, G. & Trocchia, S. & Ferraro, C. & Ciarcia, G. (2012) -
Phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (GPx4/PHGPx) is a most abundant selenoprotein in the brain and GPx4 null mice die in utero at midgestation or knockdown of GPx4 during mammalian embryogenesis disturbs brain development. The current experiments were designed to investigate, by semiquantitative RT-PCR, the cerebral function of GPx4 of the lizards collected in both polluted (Sarno River, Italy) and unpolluted (Lago Matese, Italy) areas in order to provide useful molecular information on this widely distributed seleno-enzyme in adult as well through the development of the lizard, Podarcis sicula. Our research demonstrates the lizard GPx4 hormonal control. Treatments with HCG increases immunoreactivity while the anti-estrogen ICI 182-780 induces its reduction. The partial region of the cloned cDNA is of 340 bp; conserved protein domains reports its membership to selenoprotein and analysis amino acid residues the value as an antioxidant. The semiquantitative expression of GPx 4 of adult lizard brain in polluted station resulted generally very high and let sustain its importance as lizard neuroendocrine disruptor alarm.
Gugler, W. (1903) -
Guglielmi, M.V. & Mariggio, A. & Flore, G. & Palma, G. & Scillitani, G. (2016) -
Guglielmone, R. (1978) -
Guibe, J, (1950) -
Guibe, J. (1957) -
Guiberteau, D.F. & González de la Vega, J.P. (2012) -
Guillaume, C-P. (1987) -
Guillaume, C-P. & Lanza, B. (1982) -
An electrophoretic investigation of 17 gene loci in 11 populations of Meditteraneans lacertids (Podarcis muralis, P. tiliguerta, P. hispanica, P. sicula, `Archaeolacerta` bedriagae) completed with a dendrogram after unweighted pair groups` arithmetic average cluster analysis of NEI genetic identity values, show: - important differences between Podarcis muralis and Podarcis tiliguerta, apparently sufficient to justify the maintenance of this taxon at the specific level; - important differences between animals of Archaeolacerta, Podarcis and Lacerta s. str. (MAYER et TIEDEMANN, 1982) which would allow to raise Archaeolacerta at a generic statute. This study allows equally to establish the diminution of percentage of polymorphic loci for micro-insular P. tiliguerta populations according to the removal from Sardinia and the estimate separation`s time. A tentative phylogenetic explanation is done by the authors.
Guillaume, C.-P. (2012) -
Guillaume, C.-P. & Geniez, P.H. & Guillaume, G. (1985) -
Guillaume, C.-P. & Heulin, B. & Beshkov, V. (1997) -
Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara, has allopatric oviparous and viviparous populations viviparity is observed from central France and the British Isles to Scandinavia and Russia, while oviparity is restricted to northern Spain and southwestern France, i e the extreme southwestern part of the range Recent observations in the Rila, Balkan, Vitocha, Pirin and Rhodopes mountains indicate that Bulgarian populations of Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara are indeed viviparous The electrophoretic study of allozymes and the estimation of genetic distances indicate that viviparous lizards from northwest and central France are more closely related to those of Bulgaria, than to the oviparous lizards of southwest France and northwest Spain Variations in reproductive mode and allozymes are not directly related to geographic distances between populations, nor to their latitude populations located at the southwest limit of distribution are oviparous and exhibit alleles ATA-150 or ATA-200, whereas, at a comparable latitude, the Bulgarian populations are viviparous and exhibit allele ATA-100 characteristic of other distant viviparous populations These findings underline the orginality of the oviparous southwestern populations They do not contradict our previous biogeographic scenario
Guillaume, C.-P. & Wolff, J. & Geniez, P.H. (1985) -
Guillaume, C.P. (1976) -
Guillaume, C.P. (1977) -
Guillaume, C.P. (1982) -
Guillaume, C.P. (1997) -
Guillaume, C.P. & Bons, J. (1982) -
Plusieurs séjours au Maroc entre 1974 et 1978 effectués soit dans le cadre de la RCP 249 du C.N.R.S. soit à l`occasion de voyages touristiques ont permis de rassembler des informations complémentaires sur l`herpétofaune marocaine. Captures, observations de spécimens écrasés sur les routes, mues et déterminations visuelles ont permis d`établir le texte qui suit. Il nous a paru intéressant de rassembler les observations ainsi obtenues avant leur Intégration dans un atlas des Reptiles du Maroc qui devrait voir le jour sous peu. Le découpage régional qui a été retenu est celui qui a été proposé par J. BONS (1967). Les observations les plus originales sont marquées d`un astérisque (*) et certaines sont commentées dans la conclusion.
Guillaume, C.P. & Cirer, A.M. (1985) -
An electrophoretic comparison of ten colonies of Podarcis pityusensis Bosca, 1882 (Lacertidae) from Ibiza, Formentera and neighbouring islets (Balearic Is., Spain). 71 animals from ten colonies (vide list in text) of the Ibiza wall lizard Podarcis pi- tyusensis Bosca, 1882 were analysed by electrophoresis, on 12 % starch gel, and 16 gene- tic loci were studied, by checking against samples of Podarcis muralis muralis. The genetic frequency resulting in NEI`s identity index (I), reveals no clear differen- ces between the various colonies. However, itcan be seen on the resultant dendogram that P. p. carlkochi (affinis group) is distinct from the pityusensis sensu stricto group colonies. By other means we found characteristic allels for Podarcis pityusensis in four loci: GOT-1, IDM-1, G-6-PD-2 and 6-PGD, which differed from Podarcis muralis allels.
Guillaume, C.P. & Geniez, P. (1986) -
Guillaume, C.P. & Heulin, B. & Arrayago, M.J. & Bea, A. & Braña, F. (2000) -
The viviparous lizard Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara exhibits several alleles of the mannose-6-phosphate isomerase (MPI) enzyme that are carried exclusively on the female W sex-chromosome. Previous studies showed that both the oviparous and viviparous forms of L. (Zootoca) vivipara have these female sex-linked alleles. We document the existence of geographic variation of these alleles among the oviparous populations of southwestern France and northwestern Spain. Two oviparous subgroups were identified: all females from the eastern and central Pyrenees and most females from Aquitaine and from the northern slope of the western Pyrenees exhibited the fast migrating alleles ${ m MPI}^{110}$ or ${ m MPI}^{120}$ whereas all females from the Cantabric mountains, Spanish Basque country, and from the south slope of the western Pyrenees exhibited the slow migrating allele ${ m MPI}^{90}$. Populations with both fast and slow migrating alleles occurred at some stations in the upper Ossau valley (western Pyrenees) and also at a lowland station of south Aquitaine. The hypothesis that several oviparous forms could have retreated to different places of the Pyreneo-Iberian refugia during the Quaternary glaciations could explain the conservation or the evolution of the polymorphism of the MPI alleles, and that is consistent with the phylogeographic scenario previously proposed to account for the reproductive and cytogenetical variation observed in this species.
Guillaume, C.P. & Heulin, B. & Bea, A. & Vogrin, N. & Semenov, D.V. (2000) -
Guillaume, C.P. & Heulin, B. & Pavlinov, I.Y. & Semenov, D.V. & Bea, A. & Vogrin, N. & Surget-Groba, Y. (2006) -
Knowledge on variations in the reproductive modes, karyotypes, and mtDNA sequences of Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara made headway but the morphological differences between any forms or populations remain unclear. That is why we studied different patterns of morphological variability using nine biometrics and 10 meristic variables on 242 common lizards: 119 oviparous (French, Spanish, and Slovenian), 114 viviparous (French, Bulgarian, and Russian), and nine hybrids. Our analyses confirm, for each population, the existence of a clear sexual dimorphism. Observed differences between reproductive strains (oviparous vs. viviparous) could not be connected immediately with the reproductive mode. Results of comparison between regions correspond to the geographical origin of the samples. We observe three clusters: western (Pyrenees and France), Slovenian, and eastern (Bulgaria, Russia, and Siberia). Comparisons of samples defined by their karyotypes are very similar. L. (Z.) v. carniolica subspecies is different for a majority of the studied variables. Our results show the special interest of the Russian samples but do not support the validity of the sachalinensis subspecies. The absence of clear relation between morphological and genetic structure of the species reveals that samples of the “complex” of common lizards are very closely related and have likely relatively recently diverged.
Guillaume, C.P. & Pasteur, N. & Bons, J. (1976) -
Guillén-Salazar, F. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. (2007) -
The term homing, as it is usually understood, indicates the ability of several animal species to return to their home range after a natural or artificial displacement from it. In this paper we use mark-displacement-relocation techniques to study homing behavior in a population of spiny-footed lizards (Acanthodactylus erythrurus) living in a coastal sandy area at La Albufera Natural Park (Valencia, Spain). To this end, 20 lizards of both sexes were displaced 100 m from the geometric center of their respective home ranges. Five of them were relocated inside their home ranges between 3 and 13 days after displacement. Displaced animals did not show a preferred orientation after release, which suggests that initial orientation is not a good predictor of homing success in this species. This is the first time that a homing capacity has been documented for A. erythrurus. Results also suggest that homing in this species is based on true navigation.
Guiller, G. & Legentilhomme, J. & Boissinot, A. & Blouin-Demers, G. & Barbraud, C. & Lourdais, O. (2022) -
Agricultural landscapes cover a large portion of the planet and the intensification of farming is a primary cause of biodiversity loss. Changes in agricultural practices have been particularly marked in Western Europe over the last century. Hedgerow landscapes consist of complex mosaics of pastures, ponds, and hedges connected with forest patches that are favourable for biodiversity. Recently, however, these traditional farming landscapes have been profoundly simplified with a massive reduction in hedgerows. Reptiles are currently facing an important global decline, but the impact of the intensification of agricultural practices on their populations remains understudied. We studied the common European adder Vipera berus and the western green lizard Lacerta bilineata in Western France in a hedgerow land scape undergoing agricultural intensification. We first quantified the habitat changes (density of hedgerows and forest edges) from 1950 to 2015. Second, we docu mented changes in the distribution of V. berus and L. bilineata in the area between two surveys conducted 18 years apart (survey 1: 1994–1997 and survey 2: 2012– 2015). The two species were more likely to be found at sites with dense hedge rows and forest edges at the first survey. We detected marked range contractions in the distributions of both species over 18 years (92% and 74%, respectively, for V. berus and L. bilineata). Population monitoring of the adder with capture-mark recapture at two sites revealed marked declines related to the degradation of hedgerows and closure of the forest patches. Our results underline the importance of traditional agricultural landscapes for biodiversity conservation and the value of squamate reptiles as indicator speciesed in such landscapes.
Guiller, G. & Montfort, D. & Naulleau, G. (2014) -
Des sessions de terrain réalisées en 2011 et 2012 dans la Forêt de Domnaiche ont permis d`observer cinq espèces de reptiles, dont trois lézards: Podarcis muralis, Lacerta bilineata, Anguis fragilis et deux serpents: Natrix natrix, Vipera berus ainsi que huit espèces d`amphibiens et un hybride, dont trois urodèles: Salamandra salamandra, Lissotriton helveticus, Triturus marmoratus et six anoures: Alytes obstetricans, Bufo bufo, Hyla arborea, Rana dalmatina, Pelophylax ridibundus et Pelophylax kl. esculentus.
Guirado, S. & Dávila, J.C. & Ángeles Real, M. & Medina, L. (1999) -
To better understand the organization and evolution of the basal ganglia of vertebrates, in the present study we have analyzed the chemoarchitecture and the cortical input to the nucleus accumbens in the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus. The nucleus accumbens contains many g-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-positive neurons and calbindin-positive neurons, the majority of which may be spiny projection neurons, and a few dispersed neuropeptide Y–positive neurons that likely represent aspiny interneurons. The nucleus accumbens contains two chemoarchitectonically different fields: a rostromedial field that stains heavily for substance P, dopamine, GABAA receptor, and a caudolateral field that stains only lightly to moderately for them, appearing more similar to the adjacent striatum. Injections of biotinylated dextran amine were placed in either the medial, dorsomedial, or dorsal cortices of Psammodromus. The medial and the dorsal cortices project heavily to the rostromedial field of the accumbens, whereas they project lightly to moderately to the caudolateral field. Cortical terminals make asymmetric, presumably excitatory, synaptic contacts with distal dendrites and the head of spines. Our results indicate that the hippocampal-like projection to the nucleus accumbens is similar between mammals and reptiles in that cortical terminals make mainly excitatory synapses on spiny, putatively projection neurons. However, our results and results from previous investigations indicate that important differences exist between the nucleus accumbens of mammals and reptiles regarding local modulatory interactions between cortical, dopaminergic, and cholinergic elements, which suggest that the reptilian nucleus accumbens may be as a whole comparable to the shell of the mammalian nucleus accumbens.
Guirado, S. & Davila, J.C. & Calle, A. de la & Marin Giron, F. (1986) -
The cellular populations and the plexiform layers of the dorsomedial cortex of Psammodromus algirus are described at the ultrastructural level. Solitary globous cells are located in the outermost layer of the cortex, the superficial plexiform layer. Double pyramidal cells of the cellular layer show uniform ultrastructural characteristics. Displaced double pyramidal cells, vertical fusiform cells, and globous cells are found in the deep plexiform layer. Two types of dendritic spines are described. Large spines may contain membranous sacs and mitchondira and are located at the upper third of the superifical plexiform layer; small spines do not contain organelles and are located throughout the entire cortex. Two types of axon terminals are widely distributed in both plexiform layers: terminals with only clear vesicles and terminals with both dense-core and clear vesicles. Terminals with large dense-core vesicles may be related to peptidergic synapses and are more frequent at the upper levels of the superficial plexiform layer. The neuroglia described in the dorsomedial cortex of Psammodromus are protoplasmatic astrocytes and oligodendrocytes.
Guirado, S. & Davilla, J.C. & De La Calle, A. & Marin Giron, F. (1987) -
The dorsal cortex of Psammodromus algirus is three-layered. From the pia to the ependyma, it consists of a superficial plexiform layer, a cellular layer, and a deep plexiform layer. Five neuronal types have been classified in the dorsal cortex. Pyramidal neurons represent 18.75% of neurons and differ morphologically depending on their position in the pars medialis or lateralis of dorsal cortex. Pyramidal neurons in the pars medialis are smaller and their apical dendritic fields are less extensive than those of pyramidal neurons in the pars lateralis. Bitufted neurons represent 22.5% of dorsal cortical neurons and are only found in the cellular layer of the pars lateralis. Multipolar neurons are distributed in the pars medialis and lateralis, in the cellular layer and the deep plexiform layer; they represent 46.25% of the total impregnated cells. Bipolar neurons are found mainly in the deep plexiform layer and form 11.25% of neurons. Two subtypes may be distinguished: horizontal and vertical bipolar cells. Juxtaependymal neurons represnt 1.25% and are located just above the ependyma. All the neurons in the cellular layer are projection cells.
Guirado,S. & Davila, J.C. (1994) -
This study examined the distribution and localization of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor in the brain cortex of a reptile by light and electron microscopy, to test whether cortical GABA inhibition is mainly mediated through the GABAA receptor complex. We used preembedding immunocytochemistry and a monoclonal antibody, raised against the receptor complex, that recognizes the beta 2 and beta 3 subunits of the receptor. GABAA receptors were distributed throughout the entire cerebral cortex except the dorsomedial cortex. The immunostaining consisted of fine granules restricted to the plexiform layers of the cortex as seen by light microscopy. This granular aspect of the immunoreactivity most likely corresponds to the immunopositive dendritic and axonal profiles observed under the electron microscope. Some neurons in the medial and lateral cortices displayed patches of immunoreactivity along the cell body and processes, and as a result their morphology was outlined. We discuss the possibility that these neurons were GABAergic as well. The immunocytochemical data demonstrate that the distribution and localization of GABAA receptors in discrete regions of the reptilian cerebral cortex resemble that of parts of the hippocampal formation of humans and rats, suggesting that the basic configuration of the GABA system in these regions is conserved.
Gül, C. & Tosunoglu, M. (2017) -
Gül, S. & Ilgaz, Ç. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Candan, K. (2017) -
Die Arbeit präsentiert skelettochronologische Daten zur Altersstruktur und zum Wachstum von Iranolacerta brandtii (DE FILIPPI, 1863) einer ostanatolischen Gebirgspopulation (2363 m ü.M.) aus dem Gebiet des Dorfes Karadula im Bezirk Çaldıran, Provinz Van (Türkei). Das Alter der dreiundzwanzig (19 Männchen, vier Weibchen) untersuchten Exemplare lag bei Männchen zwischen drei und sechs, bei Weibchen zwischen vier und fünf Jahren, wobei sich anhand der Stichprobe kein statistisch signifikanter Unterschied nachweisen ließ. Die Geschlechtsreife wurde von Männchen wie Weibchen im zweiten oder dritten Jahr erreicht. Die mittlere Kopf-Rumpf-Länge der Weibchen (64.27 ± 1.42 mm) übertraf die der Männchen (58.41 ± 1.17 mm) signifikant (p = 0,029).
Gül, S. & Kumlutas, Y. & Ilgaz, C. & Candan, K. (2023) -
Six species belonging to the genus Lacerta live in Türkiye. In this study, both present and future potential distribution maps were created based on occurrence data and climatic variables for these six species. Two scenarios for future projections (shared socioeconomic pathways, SSPs,: 245 and 585) and two timeframes (2041–2060 and 2081–2100) were used. The present and future potential distributions of these species were compared. As a result, it was predicted that the distribution ranges in the six species will expand in the future, and this expansion has revealed new environments.
Gül, S. & Özdemir, N. & Avci, A. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Ilgaz, C. (2015) -
Altitudinal gradients are an important variable in testing the life history traits (e.g., longevity, age at maturity, and body size) of organisms. In this study, the life history traits of the Anatolian lizard Apathya cappadocica were examined from 3 populations from different altitudes (Kilis, 697 m; Sanliurfa, 891 m; Diyarbakir, 1058 m) from southeastern Anatolia, Turkey. Age structure was determined by using skeletochronology. Males in all populations were the larger sex; therefore, the populations showed male biases that were negative by the sexual size dimorphism index. Males in Diyarbakir (high altitude) were also younger than males in the other populations. There were no significant differences between the males and females of all 3 populations in terms of either age or snout–vent length except in the Sanliurfa population, in which males were larger than females. Life history traits of A. cappadocica across altitudinal gradients may be affected by climatic factors, as males from the middle altitude population in Sanliurfa, which inhabits a warmer and more arid environment, tended to be larger than males and females in Kilis and Diyarbakir.
Gül, S. & Özdemir, N. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Durmus, S.H. & Ilgaz, C. (2015) -
We present the first data of body size and age structure (based on the skeletochronological examination) of Darevskia bithynica from two localities characterised with different altitudes, i.e. Zonguldak (50 m) and Bolu (1200 m). Males from both lowland and highland populations were slightly larger than females. This difference was not significant for the lowland population. The maximum lifespan was found to be six years for both populations. Intersexual differences in snout-vent length were male-biased and this may be linked to the climatic conditions.
Gül, S. & Özdemir, N. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Ilgaz, C. (2014) -
Darevskia rudis (BEDRIAGA, 1886) zeigt im Gebiet der türkischen Schwarzmeerregion eine weite vertikale Vebreitung. Insgesamt wurden 62 Individuen dieser Eidechse von drei Populationen/Fundorten aus unterschiedlichen Höhenlagen (Provinz Artvin: Ardanuç, 2137 m ü.M., Borçka, 1277 m ü.M., Çermik, 700 m ü.M.) skeletochronologisch altersbestimmt und hinsichtlich ihrer Kopf-Rumpf-Länge vermessen. Im Mittel waren Kopf-Rumpf-Länge und Alter in beiden Geschlechtern bei der höchst gelegenen Population geringer als bei den beiden tiefer gelegenene Populationen. Ein signifikant positiver Zusammenhang fand sich zwischen Alter und Kopf-Rumpf-Länge bei den Weibchen der beiden hoch gelegenen Populationen, jedoch nicht für die aus Çermik und die Männchen aller drei Populationen. Der Geschlechtsdimorphismus in der Körpergröße war in der tiefstgelegenenen (Çermik) Population durch größere Männchen und in den höher gelegenen Popultionen (Borçka und Ardanuç) durch größere Weibchen gekennzeichnet. Die skeletochronologischen Untersuchungen zeigten deutliche Unterschiede in der Körpergröße und Alterstruktur zwischen tiefer und höher gelegenen Populationen von D. rudis auf.
Gulia, G. (1914) -
Giovanni Gulia was a prominent Maltese naturalist. According to Schembri (2003) `In 1913, Giovanni Gulia, one of the foremost Maltese naturalists of that period, attended the Ninth International Zoological Congress held in Monaco and read a paper titled `Uno sguardo alla zoologia delle Isole Maltesi` (Gulia, 1914). This was a review of zoological research on the islands carried out to that date, treating both the marine and the non-marine fauna, and it summarised much of the earlier literature as well as gave additional unpublished information.` Schembri, P.J. (2003) Current state of knowledge of the Maltese non-marine fauna. In: Malta Environment and Planning Authority Annual report and accounts 2003. pp. 33-65; Floriana, Malta: Malta Environment and Planning Authority, 92 pp.
Gulicka, J. (1953) -
Gullberg, A. (1996) -
The levels and distribution of genetic variability in and between Swedish populations of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), a relict species from the post glacial warm period, were investigated using three molecular methods: multilocus DNA fingerprinting, single locus RFLP analysis and locus specific amplification of microsatellites. These techniques were also used to analyse demographic, behavioural and genetic factors like dispersal, mating tactics and relatedness which all may have profound effects on population structure and levels of inbreeding. The genetic analyses revealed a low level of genetic variability in the Swedish populations, both in terms of number of alleles and heterozygosity, compared to a population from Hungary where the sand lizard occurs in much larger populations. The low variability in Swedish populations can be explained by a reduction of population size during immigration after the last glacial period. The existing genetic variability shows a strang subdivision between the populations, especially between isolated.populations but also between populations from the same region, indicating that each relict population is genetically unique. The unexpectedly relatively high level of diversity within the relict populations indicates that the present day small population sizes probably are arecent phenomenon. A high frequency of malformed offspring was detected in a natural sand lizard population. Experimental matings between siblings also resulted in a high frequency of malformed offspring, whereas matings between unrelated lizards gave no such offspring. The viability of hatchlings was positively correlated to the heterozygosity of their parents. The occurrence of malformed offspring in the wild probably is an effect of inbreeding, because the same kinds of malformations were detected both in the experiments and in the natural population. Furthermore, evidence was found for matings between mothers and sons in the natural population. Male biased juvenile dispersal is likely to reduce the frequency of matings between closely related sand lizards. Multiple paternity, which will increase the effective population size, and the fact that females that mate with more than one partner produce more viable young may reduce the negative effects of inbreeding.
Gullberg, A. & Olsson, M. & Tegelström, H. (1997) -
Sand lizard Lacerta agilis females characteristically mate with several males which, in staged mating experiments, results in multiple paternity of the offspring. In order to investigate multiple paternity in a natural population and interpret male reproductive behaviours in terms of sired young, we sampled the blood of females, potential fathers and hatchlings, and determined paternity using multilocus DNA fingerprinting as well as the variation at a single locus detected by the probe (TC)n. The paternity analyses were preceded by a laboratory experiment in which we established that the parental alleles identified by the single locus probe were inherited in a Mendelian way. Our molecular data demonstrated that 12 out of 13 males (92%) that sired offspring were correctly identified from the 56 sexually mature males in the population. Also smaller males were accepted as sexual partners by the females, but sired fewer young in competition with larger males and were less able to maintain prolonged post-copulatory mate guarding. This may result in that some sexually successful males are only observed inside a female`s home range, but never in pair-association with the female.
Gullberg, A. & Olsson, M. & Tegelstrom, H. (1998) -
The Swedish sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) is a relict species from the post-glacial warmth period. From the geological history of this region, and more recent data on population fragmentation due to disturbance by man, it can be surmised that the Swedish sand lizards passed through at least one population bottleneck in relatively recent times. We tested this hypothesis by investigating the amount and structuring of genetic variability in six microsatellite loci in ten lizard populations from different parts of Sweden. We contrasted these data against those from a Hungarian population which we have reason to assume strongly resembles the founder population for Swedish sand lizards. The average number of alleles per locus in Sweden was 3.3, and these alleles were common in almost all populations, whereas the average number of alleles in the Hungarian population was 8.0. Likewise, the level of expected heterozygosity was lower in the Swedish populations (0.45) compared to the Hungarian population (0.70). The lower variability in Swedish populations is probably a consequence of a common population bottleneck during the immigration subsequent to the latest glacial period. The remaining variability is strongly subdivided between populations (FST=0.30) with the main genetic differences being between rather than within populations. Despite the marked isolation of the populations and the present small population sizes (N= 10–300 adults), the Swedish relict populations show a surprisingly high level of observed heterozygosity, indicating that small population size is probably a recent phenomenon.
The Swedish sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) is a relict species from the period of warmth following the last glacial episode and has a fragmented distribution in central Sweden and a more continuous distribution in the southern part of the country. We used this model system of colonization–extinction for a study of genetic variability within and among Swedish populations from different parts of the distribution range using multilocus DNA fingerprinting. The results from the Swedish populations are then contrasted with those from a large Hungarian population in the centre of the species geographical distribution range, which is likely to closely resemble the ancestral founding population of Sweden. Swedish populations have a low level of genetic variability compared with the Hungarian reference population, which showed a genetic variability within the range described for outbred populations. Within the Swedish populations, the average bandsharing was 0.61, the mean heterozygosity 0.45 and the estimated number of alleles 2.7. The figures for the Hungarian population were a bandsharing of 0.19, a heterozygosity of 0.89 and an estimated number of alleles of 9.8. A population bottleneck, common to all Swedish sand lizards, is indicated by less than 20% of the alleles in the Hungarian population being retained in the Swedish populations, and higher bandsharing similarity between different Swedish populations (0.33) as opposed to the Hungarian population (0.19). The limited variability found in Swedish sand lizards is strongly subdivided between populations, with an average FST of 0.32, indicating a very limited gene flow between the isolated populations, as well as between populations in the region where the sand lizard has a more or less continuous distribution (FST = 0.41).
Gullberg, A. & Tegelstrom, H. & Olsson, M. (1997) -
We developed microsatellite markers for the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) to enable investigations of the genetic variability within and among populations with a heterogeneous spatial distribution in Sweden. The populations, which could not be characterized by variation in allozymes or mitochondrial DNA, had a substantial level of variability in microsatellite loci. However, the variability in Swedish populations was limited compared to a large, outbred Hungarian population. In the sand lizard, the number of (GT/CA) n repeats was approximately three times higher than that for (CT/GA) n. The number of repeats and the frequency of microsatellites were within the range reported for other species. Three of nine microsatellite loci showed alleles that could not be amplified, which is in agreement with recent reports describing microsatellite null alleles as a common occurrence. We discuss the caution which this calls for when calculating paternity probabilities and when estimating between-population allelic differentiation. A potential problem with different mutation rates for alleles within the same locus is discussed.
Gullo, J. & Hanke, G. & Isaac, L.A. & Higgins, R. & Larsen, K. (2024) -
Introduced Common Wall Lizards (Podarcis muralis) have steadily increased their range on Vancouver Island and other parts of coastal British Columbia, Canada since the 1970s. Without substantial observations of their feeding habits in this introduced range, a full assessment of the ecological impact of this species introduction is not possible. In this study, we provide qualitative observations on the diets of a large sample of urban dwelling Common Wall Lizards collected from a residential neighborhood in Victoria, British Columbia. Specimens were euthanized, dissected, and had their entire digestive tracts examined. Our observations showed a rich diet of invertebrates typical of wall lizards, with ants (Family Formicidae) as the most detected prey followed by beetles (Order Coleoptera), and earwigs (Order Dermaptera). Adults consumed approximately 30% more prey taxa than juveniles. We also found the remains of other wall lizards within ~5 % of adult guts, suggesting cannibalism or carcass scavenging. The results of this study provide additional information for assessing the potential impacts of wall lizard trophic interactions in their British Columbian range and can help orient future investigations focused on this introduced species.
Gunková, S. (2019) -
In this work I summarize available informations on the size of populations and densities of Common Wall Lizard Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) in Europe and my own data from fieldwork in Strejčkuv lom quarry near Grygov. I present a map of spots where individuals were captured, and photographic database of individuals living in the studied locality. The database will be used to reveal possible recaptures in future. All lizards were captured in the season of 2018 (April to October) and Spring 2019. The locality studied is one of the 3 locations in Czech Republic where this species occures. Total of 36 individuals were captured, 22 of which were male, 9 female and 5 juveniles. Total of 9 recaptures were yet recorded.
Günther, A. (1859) -
Günther, A. (1864) -
Günther, A. (1872) -
Günther, A. (1874) -
Günther, A. (1876) -
Günther, A. (1888) -
Günther, A. (1896) -
Günther, A. (1903) -
Günther, A.C.L.G. (1864) -
Günther, R. (1996) -
Günther, R. & Laufer, H. & Waitzmann, M. (1996) -
Günther, R. & Völkl, W. (1996) -
Guo, K. & Chen, C. & Liang, X.-F. & Qu, Y.-F. & Ji, X. (2020) -
Background: Identifying the factors that contribute to divergence among populations in mate preferences is important for understanding of the manner in which premating reproductive isolation might arise and how this isolation may in turn contribute to the evolutionary process of population divergence. Here, we offered female northern grass lizards (Takydromus septentrionalis) a choice of males between their own population and another four populations to test whether the preferences that females display in the mating trials correlate with phenotypic adaptation to local environments, or to the neutral genetic distance measured by divergence of mitochondrial DANN sequence loci. Results: Females showed a strong preference for native over foreign males. Females that mated with native versus foreign males did not differ from each other in mating latency, or copulation duration. From results of the structural equation modelling we knew that: 1) geographical distance directly contributed to genetic differentiation and environmental dissimilarity; 2) genetic differentiation and environmental dissimilarity indirectly contributed to female mate preference, largely through their effects on morphological divergence; and 3) females judged mates by body shape (appearance) and discriminated more strongly against morphologically less familiar allopatric males. Conclusions: Local adaptation rather than neutral genetic distance influences female mate preference in T. Septentrionali. The tendency to avoid mating with foreign males may indicate that, in T. septentrionalis, local adaptations are more valuable than genetic novelties. Our results highlight the importance of comprehensive studies integrating ecological, molecular and behavioral approaches to understand population divergence in female mate preferences as the consequence of local adaptations.
Background: Identifying the factors that contribute to divergence among populations in mate preferencesis important for understanding of the manner in which premating reproductive isolation might arise andhow this isolation may in turn contribute to the evolutionary process of population divergence. Here, weoffered female northern grass lizards (Takydromus septentrionalis) a choice of males between their ownpopulation and another four populations to test whether the preferences that females display in themating trials correlate with phenotypic adaptation to local environments, or to the neutral geneticdistance measured by divergence of mitochondrial DNA sequence loci. Results: Females showed a strong preference for native over foreign males. Females that mated withnative versus foreign males did not differ from each other in mating latency, or copulation duration. Fromresults of the structural equation modelling we knew that: 1) geographical distance directly contributed togenetic differentiation and environmental dissimilarity; 2) genetic differentiation and environmentaldissimilarity indirectly contributed to female mate preference, largely through their effects onmorphological divergence; and 3) females judged mates by body shape (appearance) and discriminatedmore strongly against morphologically less familiar allopatric males. Conclusions: Local adaptation rather than neutral genetic distance influences female mate preference in T. septentrionalis. The tendency to avoid mating with foreign males may indicate that, in T.septentrionalis, local adaptations are more valuable than genetic novelties. Our results highlight theimportance of comprehensive studies integrating ecological, molecular and behavioral approaches tounderstand population divergence in female mate preferences as the consequence of local adaptations.
Guo, K. & Ding, G.H. & Sun, Y.Y. & Lu, H.L. (2015) -
The northern grass lizard (Takydromus septentrionalis) is an oviparous lacertid lizard that is endemic to China and has a wide distributional range covering the central and south-eastern parts of the country. It is listed on the ‘‘lists of terrestrial wildlife under state protection, which are beneficial or of important economic or scientific value’’ promulgated by China’s State Forestry Administration. Here, nine polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated from T. septentrionalis genomic libraries. These markers revealed a high degree of genetic diversity (2–22 alleles per locus) and heterozygosity (H O ranged from 0.063 to 0.938, and H E ranged from 0.06 to 0.928). No locus exhibited deviations from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. There was no evidence of linkage disequilibrium among pairs of loci. These microsatellite markers will be useful for future study of population genetic analysis and parentage assignment of T. septentrionalis.
Guo, K. & Hu, Y.-H. & Chen, J. & Zhong, J. & Ji, X. (2024) -
During our collecting trip to Guangxi in 2016, we collected ten specimens of the genus Takydromus from the suburb of Guilin, northeastern Guangxi, South China, and found that they did not belong to any currently known species. Here, we described this new species, Takydromus guilinensis sp. nov., based on morphological and mitochondrial DNA (CO1 and cyt b) data. This new species is a sister taxon to T. intermedius with a p-distance of 0.070 in CO1 and 0.080 in cyt b. These two p-distances exceed not only the minimum value (0.067) between /i>T. septentrionalis and T. stejnegeri but also the minimum value (0.079) between T. intermedius and T. yunkaiensis. Morphologically, this new species differs from other currently recognized Takydromus species from the same clade, more evidently in the longitudinal rows of dorsal scales, transverse rows of scales at the mid-body and mensural variables. The description of Takydromus guilinensis sp. nov. increases the total number of Takydromus species to 25, of which 16 can be found in China. Takydromus guilinensis sp. nov. is currently known only from Guilin, Guangxi, South China, where it is sympatric with the other four Takydromus species (T. septentrionalis, T. kuehnei, T. sexlineatus and T. intermedius).
Guo, K. & Wang, C.-F. & Du, Y. & Qu, Y.-F. & Brana, F. & Ji, X. (2023) -
Residual yolk is assumed to be an important source of energy and nutrients during early life in nonmammalian amniotes. Available data show that the mean size of residual yolk is far smaller in lizards than in turtles, snakes, crocodiles, and birds, raising a question of whether residual yolk is of functional significance in lizards. Here, we compared data from 26 lizard species with those from other nonmammalian amniotes to test the hypothesis that residual yolk is functionally less significant in species producing more fully developed offspring. In our sample, species mean offspring water contents ranged from 73% to 84% of body wet mass; species mean proportions of carcass dry mass, fat-body dry mass, and residual yolk dry mass to offspring dry mass ranged from 84% to 99%, 0% to 5.0%, and 0% to 14.4%, respectively. Lizards are, on average, more fully developed at hatching or birth than snakes, as revealed by the fact that the mean proportion of carcass dry mass to body dry mass and offspring water contents were both higher in lizards than in snakes. We conclude that the functional significance of residual yolk during early life is generally less evident in lizards. Even in the lizards where residual yolk is of potential functional significance, this portion of yolk contributes little, if any, to postembryonic growth. Future work could usefully collect data across a wider spectrum of reptile taxa to establish a precocial–altricial continuum and test the hypothesis that species with a smaller amount of residual yolk are closer to the precocial end of the continuum.
Guo, K. & Zhong, J. & Xie, F. & Zhu, L. & Qu, Y.-F. & Ji, X. (2021) -
Coexisting species may experience population and range changes alone or jointly in response to environmental change. Here, we used six climate variables and ten modeling algorithms to predict the distribution of two Takydromus species (T. septentrionalis and T. sexlineatus) in China. We identified the sympatric and allopatric areas by comparing projections between the two species based on habitat suitability under present and future climate scenarios. We constructed the hypervolumes of six climate variables for the two species and then evaluated overlaps between hypervolumes. From this study, we know the following. First, minimum temperature of coldest month contributes the most to the prediction of habitat suitability. Second, habitats suitable for the two species will shift northward in response to climate warming. Third, the range of T. sexlineatus will expand across the four future time intervals before 2,100, namely the 2021–2040, 2041–2060, 2061–2080, and 2081–2100 intervals, under both Shared socioeconomic pathway (SSP) 245 and SSP585 scenarios, and the range of T. septentrionalis will also expand in the future except at the 2081–2100 interval under the SSP585 scenario. Fourth, the sympatric areas will contract or expand under the SSP245 scenario and expand across the four future time intervals before 2,100 under the SSP585 scenario. Fifth, the niche hypervolumes of the two species partially overlapped, and the differences in niche centroid show some degree of niche differentiation between the two species. These results allow to conclude that climate warming will not only drive the northward drift of sympatric areas but also increase the size of these areas if nothing is done to limit the emission of greenhouse gases. Given the existence of hybridization and introgression between T. septentrionalis and T. sexlineatus in the field where they coexist, we also conclude that climate warming will increase chances of hybridization and introgression between the two species.
Guo, K. & Zhong, J. & Zhu, L. & Xie, F. & Du, Y. & Ji, X. (2021) -
One of the main functions of physiological color change is thermoregulation.This change occurs much more rapidly than morphological color change, but the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. Here, we studied the thermal dependence and molecular basis of physiological color change inlizards using Takydromus septentrionalis (Lacertidae) as the model system. Body color was thermally sensitive, becoming increasingly light as body temperatures deviated from the level (~30 °C) preferred by this species. We identified 3,389 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between lizards at 24 °C and 30 °C, and 1,097 DEGs between lizards at 36 °C and 30 °C. Temperature affected the cAMP signal pathway, motor proteins, cytoskeleton, and the expression of genes related to melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) and melanocyte-concentrating hormone (MCH). Our data suggest that the role of physiological color change in thermoregulation is achieved in T. septentrionalisby altering the arrangement of pigments and thus the amount of solar radiation absorbed and reflected. G protein-coupling system inhibits adenylate cyclase activity to transform ATP into cAMP and thereby causes rapid pigment aggregation. MCH deactivates the G proteins and thereby initiates pigment dispersion. This mechanism differs from that reported for teleost fish where MCH activates the G proteins and thereby causes pigment aggregation.
Guo, X. & Dai, X. & Chen, D. & Papenfuss, T.J. & Ananjeva, N.B. & Melnikov, D.A. & Wang, Y. (2011) -
Eremias, or racerunners, is a widespread lacertid genus occurring in China, Mongolia, Korea, Central Asia, Southwest Asia and Southeast Europe. It has been through a series of taxonomic revisions, but the phylogenetic relationships among the species and subgenera remain unclear. In this study, a frequently studied region of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA was used to (i) reassess the phylogenetic relationships of some Eremias species, (ii) test if the viviparous species form a monophyletic group, and (iii) estimate divergence time among lineages using a Bayesian relaxed molecular-clock approach. The resulting phylogeny supports monophyly of Eremias sensu Szczerbak and a clade comprising Eremias, Acanthodactylus and Latastia. An earlier finding demonstrating monophyly of the subgenus Pareremias is corroborated, with Eremias argus being the sister taxon to Eremias brenchleyi. We present the first evidence that viviparous species form a monophyletic group. In addition, Eremias przewalskii is nested within Eremias multiocellata, suggesting that the latter is likely a paraphyletic species or a species complex. Eremias acutirostris and Eremias persica form a clade that is closely related to the subgenus Pareremias. However, the subgenera Aspidorhinus, Scapteira, and Rhabderemias seem not to be monophyletic, respectively. The Bayesian divergence-time estimation suggests that Eremias originated at about 9.9 million years ago (with the 95% confidence interval ranging from 7.6 to 12 Ma), and diversified from Late Miocene to Pleistocene. Specifically, the divergence time of the subgenus Pareremias was dated to about 6.3 million years ago (with the 95% confidence interval ranging from 5.3 to 8.5 Ma), which suggests that the diversification of this subgenus might be correlated with the evolution of an East Asian monsoon climate triggered by the rapid uplift of the Tibetan Plateau approximately 8 Ma.
Guo, X. & Huo, X. & Liu, J. & Chirikova, M.A. (2022) -
The complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of the Kyrghyz racerunner (Eremias nikoskii Bedriaga, 1905) from Kyrgyzstan was determined for the first time by next-generation sequencing. The mitogenome was 20,840 bp in length and comprised the standard set of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, and a control region. The 13 concatenated PCGs were used to implement Bayesian phylogenetic analyses together with some congeners and three representative lacertids retrieved from GenBank. The monophyly of both Eremias and its viviparous group was recovered in the Bayesian phylogenetic tree, while the subgenus Pareremias was paraphyletic with respect to E. nikoskii. The mitogenome of E. nikoskii will faciliate the research on species delimitation, molecular evolution, and phylogenetic inference in the racerunner lizards.
Guo, X.-G. & Chen, D.-L. & Wan, H.-F. & Wang, Y.-Z. (2010) -
The lacertid genus Eremias Fitzinger in Wiegmann,1834,consists of approximately 36 species of racerunners,distributed throughout the desert and semi-desert regions from northern China,Mongolia,Korea,central and southwest Asia to southeastern Europe.This short review represents the history of taxonomic studies in the genus Eremias,including affirmation of the genus and its species,distribution characteristics,phylogenetic relationships and historical biogeography.Traditional taxonomic methods,as well as new approaches(mtDNA analysis) are discussed.Future potential research projects on Eremias are outlined,such as phylogeny,phylogeography and speciation process.
郭宪光 陈达丽 万宏富 王跃招 (2010) -
由于各种原因,麻蜥属的分类仍较混乱。本文对麻蜥属的系统学研究历史做了系统回顾,从属、亚属、种 等各级分类水平叙述了其研究历史,包括属的建立与订正、物种组成、地理分布特征,总结了通过外部形态和分子 等研究手段,在分类、系统发育、生物地理等研究层次上所取得的成果,在此基础上提出需要深入研究麻蜥属的系 统发育、谱系地理和物种形成机制等,包括该属分布格局与青藏高原隆升、天山隆升及中亚荒漠化和第四纪冰期的 关系。
Guo, Z.-G. & Xu, X.-F. (2008) -
Eremias argus often produces two clutches per breeding season in Chuzhou, Anhui Province, with females laying 2 to 5 eggs per clutch. Clutch size and clutch mass was positively correlated to female size (SVL); relative clutch mass was independent of female size; egg was independent of clutch size. There was no inter-clutch difference in clutch size, clutch mass and egg mass. Egg length was positively correlated to egg width. Egg length was negatively correlated to clutch size; and egg width was independent of clutch size. Females increased reproductive output mainly through increasing clutch size.
Gürelli, G. & Göçmen, B. & Cetin-Dogan, T. & Alpagut-Keskin, N. (2007) -
Mesocestoides spp. tetrathyridia were first recorded in Turkey in April and December 2006, from Anatololacerta danfordi individuals. Tetrathyridia were found encapsulated in the livers of the host animals. Although prevalence of infection was low, its intensity was very high. Both morphological and histological features of tehtrathyridia were determined. The morphological examination revealed the absence of buds, multiple scoleces, or any other evidence of asexual proliferation.
Guske, E. (1976) -
Gutleb, B. (1998) -
Gutsche, A. (2019) -
Gutsche, A. (2025) -
Guttner, R. (1988) -
Guyghe, K. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Van Damme, R. (2009) -
Gvodzik, L. & Boukal, M. (1998) -
Gvozdenovic-Nikolic, S. & Ikovic, V. (2024) -
Diversity of amphibians and reptiles, as well as threat factors were investigated during last decade in the wide area of the Vrmac hill. Field methodology included active searching and visual observation of species along defined transects. In total, 29 species were recorded, what comprises about 54% of amphibian and reptile fauna known for Montenegro. Main threat factors for amphibians and reptiles in the area of Vrmac hill are: urbanization, habitat fragmentation and destruction, fires, illegal landfills, waste waters, direct killing by locals and road killing.
Gvozdenovic, S. (2020) -
Diversity of reptile fauna, as well as threat factors were investigated during April and May 2019 in the settlement Mareza. Field methodology included active searching and visual observation of species along defined transects. In total, 20 reptile species were recorded, what comprises about 55 % of reptile fauna known for Montenegro. According to obtained results, area of Mareza can be considered as important reptile diversity hotspot in Montenegro. First finding of Xerotyphlops vermicularis in this area contribute to knowledge of its distribution range. Three identified species (Emys orbicularis, Testudo hermanni and Elaphe quatuorli neata) are listed on Annex II of the Habitat Directive. None of identified species are vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered, upon the IUCN Red List. Almost all identified species are protected on national level. Main threat factors for reptile fauna in the area of Mareza are: urbanization, habitat fragmentation and destruction, fires, illegal landfills, direct killing by locals and road killing.
Gvozdenovic, S. & Ikovic, V. (2022) -
This paper presents an updated checklist of Amphibians and Reptiles of Montenegro. The checklist contains 52 species (including two species complexes), compiled from published literature and personal field surveys. Species complexes are the Anguis fragilis complex and the Lacerta viridis complex. Trachemys scripta is introduced, while Podarcis siculus is potentially introduced species. Migratory species include three sea turtles (Caretta caretta, Chelonia mydas and Dermochelys coriacea). Additionally, there are four potentially present species (Proteus anguinus, Mediodactylus kotschyi, Tarentola mauritanica and Podarcis tauricus), which presence is doubtful or still not confirmed with certainty in Montenegro. National and international protection as well as conservation status of Amphibians and Reptiles is given.
Gvozdík, L. (1997) -
Gvoždík, L. (1999) -
Melanistic individuals in one population of Zootoca vivipara in the Czech Republic were recorded. The proportion of black lizards was low (8.3%) with a significant preponderance of males (P < 0.03). Comparisons of heating rates, body sizes and body conditions did not confirm a supposed advantage of melanistic lizards. Therefore, the occurrence of black phase seems to be primarily dependent on habitat characteristics (vegetation cover, substrate colour), which may reduce the cost of conspicuousness. Cryptic coloration may be especially important for gravid females, which have decreased mobility. Therefore, insufficient crypsis of black females may be the main factor causing their low proportion in the population.
Gvozdik, L. (2000) -
Gvoždík, L. (2000) -
Length of the period of seasonal activity, sex ratio, and abundance were studied in a population of Lacerta agilis LINNAEUS, 1758 from near Opava in the Czech Republic. Lizards were active during four to six months of the year depending on sex, age, and year of observation. Males emerged earlier from hibernation than females. In adults, both total and operational sex ratios did not differ significantly from a balanced situation. The estimate of the average population density of adults and subaduhs was 73 individuals per hectare
Gvoždík, L. (2002) -
Behavioural regulation of body temperature in thermally heterogeneous habitats requires different amounts of time that could otherwise be dedicated to foraging and social activities. In this study I examined how four populations of the lizard Zootoca vivipara along an altitudinal gradient (250-1450 m) adjust their thermal-physiology traits and thermoregulatory behaviour to compensate for increasing time costs of thermoregulation. I focused on variation in several physiological (set-point temperature, heating rate) and behavioural traits (microhabitat selection, basking frequency, extent of thermoregulation). To estimate potential time spent basking and foraging by lizards that were not employing any behavioural compensatory mechanism, I used a simple biophysical model of thermoregulation, including information about operative temperatures at the study sites, selected temperature range, and heating/cooling rates. Time costs of thermoregulation for each population were calculated as potential time spent basking relative to time spent foraging. Operative temperatures varied among study sites, resulting in different time costs of thermoregulation. Lizards at 1450 m should spend about 50% more time basking than those at 250 m. I found that the only mechanism which potentially compensated for the higher time costs incurred at high altitudes was a shift in the choice of basking sites. Lizards thermoregulated with similar accuracy and effectiveness over the 1200-m altitudinal range, indicating that there were no adjustments in the extent of thermoregulation. The observed basking frequencies of lizards were highly correlated with potential time spent basking without behavioural adjustments, suggesting a minor compensatory effect of thermoregulatory behaviour. Lizards responded to higher time costs of thermoregulation primarily by allocating different amounts of time to basking. These results suggest that Z. vivipara regulated body temperature at the expense of time that could be devoted to other activities.
Gvoždík, L. & Boukal, M. (1998) -
Gvoždík, L. & Castilla, A.M. (2001) -
We compared preferred body temperatures, critical thermal minima, and maxima, and tolerance ranges among four populations of Zootoca vivipara (formerly Lacerta vivipara) distributed along an altitudinal gradient (250-1450 m) to examine whether different thermal environments have induced a change in these thermal characteristics. Lizards in all populations had similar preferred body temperatures and critical thermal limits, suggesting that acclimation or adaptation of these traits to different thermal environments did not occur. Subadult females and gravid females preferred lower body temperatures than non-gravid females and subadult and adult males. Preferred body temperatures differed among individuals of the same age and sex within a particular population. In contrast to the negligible among-population variation, preferred body temperatures varied considerably within populations in Z. vivipara.
Gvoždík, L.& Van Damme, R. (2003) -
Zootoca vivipara is a small lizard that shows sexual dimorphism in head size. Males have larger heads than females of the same body size. By observing matings and aggressive interactions between males in the laboratory, we investigated whether this sexual dimorphism could be the result of intra- and/or intersexual selection. Winners of male–male interactions had larger heads than losers. During mating attempts, males with larger heads succeeded in grasping a female faster than males with smaller heads. It follows that head size in Z. vivipara may affect male reproductive success both through intrasexual competition (fighting ability) and through intersexual selection (grasping ability). This suggests that sexual selection may be the cause for the sexual dimorphism in head size in this species.
Gwiazdowicz, D.J. & Anna, K.G. & Kurczewski, R. & Zawieja, B. (2020) -
The purpose of this study was to analyse selected factors determining the level of infestation of Ixodes ricinus ticks on Lacerta agilis and Zootoca vivipara lizards found in Central Europe. Both environmental factors (habitats within protected areas and areas transformed as a result of human activity) as well as morphological factors (age, sex and size of lizards, location of ticks on the lizard’s body) were assessed. We found that the age and size of a lizard played a significant role in the level of infestation, but this depended on the species and habitat. Females of both species differed significantly in their level of tick infestation; females of L. agilis had lower infection than Z. vivipara. In contrast, there was no difference in levels of infection between juveniles and males of the different species. We also found that the impact of body size changed in the different habitats: the number of ticks increased with body size in natural areas only. In addition, more frequently ticks were found in the front groin area (336 individuals) and forelimbs (202), less often on the neck (12) and never in the hind groin area. These differences might be because it is easier to infest a larger individual than a smaller one, and areas of the front of the lizard might be more accessible whilst foraging. This study provides additional information about tick infestation that may be relevant to the conservation of the species of lizards.
Gwiazdowiecz, D. & Filip, K.P. (2009) -
Thirty specimens of sand lizard, Lacerta agilis, were analyzed and Ophionyssus saurarum was found on three of them. These parasitic mites were located in the ear opening of the host. The only lizard specimens which were infested were those that inhabit areas degraded by human activity.
Gyovai, F. (1984) -
In the course of a two years` study, author processed data of 634 individuals of the 3 lizard species (Lacerta taurica, L. agilis and L. viridis) living o n a sandy grassland. The density of the lizard population was 557 individuals per hectare. The migration of the juvenile L. taurica tended towards the surrounding grazed areas. The L. taurica population belongs to mortality type No. I I . The main mortality factor is predation. The covering by vegetation segragetes L. taurica from the other two populations. The consequences regarding habitude of the morphological differences between the 3 species presumably act in the direction of a decrease in interspecific competition between the individuals more than 1-year-old. The lizards represent a biomass of 1725 g/ha at the sampling area. Their annual nutriment consumption is 1.3 g / m ` , 18% of the complete secondary consumption, and 8 % of the primary consumers` production. The lizards play a significant role in the regulation of the Coleoptera, Aranei and Orthoptera populations.
Haacke, W.D. (1970) -
Haacke, W.D. (1982) -
Haacke, W.D. (1984) -
The herpetofauna of the southern Kalahari has mixed affinities, as this area lies on a rainfall gradient in a critical area where a transition between the arid south-west and the moister north-east takes place. As the variation in substrate type is relatively limited, the effect of the rainfall gradient appears to influence and determine the range limits of many taxa in both directions, resulting in an area in which of 55 recorded reptiles, 11 western taxa overlap or form a parapatric zone with 25 eastern taxa, while the remaining taxa are endemic or wideranging.
Haagner, G.V. & Branch, W.R. & Haagner, A.J.F. (2000) -
The Port Elizabeth Museum collection holds nearly 500 reptile specimens from Zambia and adjacent southeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. These are reviewed, and biological and distribution data on 5 chelonians, 27 lizards and 38 snake species from Zambia are presented. These include information on 2 chelonians, 11 lizards and 19 snake species recorded from the poorly-known northern lVwinilunga District, Northwestern Province. Among the important findings are: the second largest specimen of and second Zambian locality for the dwarf terrapin, Pelusios nanus, with details on H`e first documented data on reproduction and sperm retention; the close proximity, without intergradation, of Lygodactylus heeneni and L. angularis suppOlting elevation of the former to specific status; a range extension of about 345km and the most northerly record (Chingola) for the gecko Lygodactylus chobiensis; a north-westerly range extension of more than 300km (to Chingola) for the gecko Hemidactylus mabouia (both these records may be translocations); the third and fourth reco]`ds for Zambia, and the most southern to date, for the gecko Pachydactylus tuberculosus; the first detailed biological information on the rare skink, Mabuya ivensii, which was first collected from Zanbia during these collections; asynchronous reproduction in Sakeji populations of both Mabuya maculilabris and M. wahlbergii; a southern range extension to Shimabala for the rare skink Eumecia anchietae; a range extension for the skink Lygosoma afrum to Sampfya town; the first record of lchnotropis capensis in the Copperbelt, and a north-westerly range extension of mon: than 300km to Chingola; the absence of asynchronous reproductive cycling between lchnotropis capensis and I bivittata in July at Sakeji; support for the specific status of Limnophis bangewoliCi,lS based on differences in colouration of the supralabials and subcaudals; new record sizes for both sexes of Dipsadoboa shrevei shrevei; a new record size for female Psammophis brevirostris leopardinus; and probable sympatry between Naja annulifera and its sister species N. anchietae at Livingstone.
Haas, G. (1943) -
Haas, G. (1951) -
Haas, G. (1952) -
Haas, G. (1957) -
Haas, G. & Werner, Y.L. (1969) -
Habeeb, I.N. (2018) -
n this study the Check list lizards of Iraq were investigated. by reviewing the old and new data as well as carrying out field work and study of material in the Natural history Museum of Iraq as well as many departments and colleges in various universities, are discussed.Further, various relevant websites in the Internet specialized lizards. I found in this study 7 families, 27 genera and 50 species distribution in the different parts of Iraq. During this study I found Asaccus saffinae (Afrasiab & Mohamad, 2009) the first time in SheraSwar Cave in the Saffine Mountain near Erbil, Kurdistan and the first record new species in Iraq and found Ptyodactylus puiseuxi (Boutan, 1893) the first time in same area . Also found Carinatogecko heteropholis(Minton, S. Anderson, and J. A. Anderson, 1970) Which is one of the endemic species in western Iran in the Erbil western Zagros foothills in Erbil. Trapelus ruderatus (Olivier, 1804) found in the central of Iraq. Cyrtopodion scaber (Heyden, 1827) Previously found in southern Iraq But recently also recorded in the center and northern Iraq. Varanus nesterovi (Bohme, Ehrlich, Milto, Orlov & Scholz, 2015) new species in the northern of Iraq. Lacerta media (Lantz & Cyren, 1758) found newly in central and northern of Iraq and Timon kurdistanicus, Apathya cappadocica (Werner, 1902) (Suchow, 1936) northern of Iraq. I note the two families were finding Previously in Iraq and they did not record any new genus and species in Iraq.
Hablizl, K.L. (1785) -
Габлицем, К.И. (1785) -
Hachtel, M. (2003) -
Hachtel, M. (2009) -
Haddad, K. & Nemouchi, H. & Benguedouar, B. (2024) -
An adult lacertid lizard of approximately 25 cm total length, with a long brownish red tail climbing on a tree trunk was observed on July 23, 2023 in the municipality of Tagmart-East, in the wilaya of Tamanrasset, Algeria. The observation was published on the iNaturalist platform and led to the determination of Philochortus zolii. The observed climbing behavior seems to be typical for Philochortus zolii. It is the second observation of the species for Algeria.
Hadji, L. & Korchi, H. (2017) -
Haelke, J. (2021) -
The first reports of sightings of Lacerta bilineata or Lacerta viridis at the Spitzberg near Tübingen go back to the 19th century. It is only in the last few years that sightings and interest in the bright green lizards have increased. However, the population has hardly been studied, so it is unclear whether it is a population of Lacerta bilineata, Lacerta viridis or even both. The exact distribution area and the population size are also unknown. What is certain, however, is that the occurrence on the Spitzberg is due to one or more exposures and thus represents an allochthonous island population. In the context of this work, the population size could be roughly estimated and the habitat preferences of the species on the northern edge of their range could be clarified. Furthermore, with the help of citizens, the distribution area was limited to the southern slopes of the Spitzberg and the nature reserve Spitzberg-Ödenburg. The investigation of the reptile fauna revealed a potential endangerment of the indigenous sand lizard by the green lizard. By recording the habitat preferences, it was possible to discuss potential dispersal areas, especially near Wurmlingen, Wendelsheim and on the southwest slopes of the Schönbuch. Based on the results, recommendations for measures relating to the population management of the green lizards on the Spitzberg were developed. Amendment and comments by GUNTRAM DEICHSEL (June 2021): The results of haplotype determinations were available only after filing in this thesis. All 12 swabs analyzed identify the species as Lacerta bilineata. All sighted juveniles displayed green coloration elements. This matches my own observations, confirming L. bilineata as the species on Spitzberg montain. Hence no objective hints to the other species taken into consideration, namely L. viridis, were found. However, an anecdotal report relates the release of one specimen of this species on Spitzberg mountain. The comparison of different extrapolation methods with differing results makes the problems of population estimates apparent. For this reason, ULRICH SCHULTE recommends in a written note to myself to confine reports to observation frequencies. The tick species Ixodes rhizinus is mentioned in chapter 1.1.7 as an expoarasite. The correct spelling is I. ricinus. Strict protection of L. viridis and L. bilineata according to appendix IV oft he FFH guidelines , mentioned in chapter 4.5.1, applies to national occurrences of these species in Germany only.
Haese, U. (1981) -
Haese, U. (1988) -
Haese, U. (1990) -
Haese, U. (1993) -
Haferland, H.-J. (2012) -
Auf dem Territorium des Nationalparks Unteres Odertal wurden bisher (Stand Herbst 2012) insgesamt 11 Amphibien – und 6 Reptilienarten nachgewiesen. Eine Reptilienart wird in der Roten Liste Brandenburg in der Kategorie 1 „Vom Aussterben bedroht“ geführt. In der Kategorie 2 „Stark gefährdet“ sind es zwei Amphibienarten und eine Reptilienart und in der Kategorie 3 „Gefährdet“ sind es vier Amphibien- und zwei Reptilienarten. Das Schutzgebiet wird von zwei Amphibienarten und einer Reptilienart der FFH – RL, Anhang II sowie von sechs Amphibien- und drei Reptilienarten der FFH –RL, Anhang IV bewohnt. Der Nationalpark Unteres Odertal zeichnet sich damit durch eine artenreiche Herpetofauna mit einen hohen Anteil gefährdeter Arten aus.
Haffner, K. v. (1953) -
Hafner, A. & Zimmermann, P. (2007) -
Hagedoorn, F.H.J. (1988) -
Attention is given to the reptiles and amphibians of the island Lesbos in Greece. The observations were made during a holiday in July 1987.
Hagemeister, G. (2022) -
Hahn-Siry, G. (1996) -
Hahn, W. & Vacher, J.-P. (2006) -
Hahne, A. (1994) -
Observations on Ihe Ocellated Lizard (Lacerta lepida) on the peninsula of Peniche, Portugal. The animals were found on a sandy hill close to a large hotel.
Hahne, A. & Fenske, R. (1992) -
Hahne, A. & Fenske, R. (1993) -
Hahnemann, S. (2013) -
Hahnemann, S. (2014) -
During a herpetological field trip in a quarry on the edge of Gyenesdias (western Lake Balaton, Hungary) I observed more than twenty Common Wall Lizards (Podarcis muralis muralis) as well as a good dozen of European Green Lizards (Lacerta viridis viridis) within a period of about 45 minutes. The Green lizards had a remarkable low flight distance.
Hahnemann, S. (2015) -
Es wird über den Nachweis einer neuen allochthonen Mauereidechsenpopulation (Podarcis muralis muralis) in Aschersleben (Sachsen-Anhalt) berichtet. Die mögliche Herkunft der Tiere wird diskutiert.
Es wird aufgezeigt, wie sich die allochthone Mauereidechsenpopulation (Podarcis muralis) in Halle/Saale entwickelt, und deren mögliche Ausbreitung wird diskutiert.
Hahnemann, S. (2023) -
Seit über 100 Jahren wurden in verschiedenen Zeiträumen in Sachsen Mauereidechsen angesiedelt. Die Ursachen waren der Zeit geschuldet sehr verschieden. Allerdings wurden erst in neuster Zeit unterstützt durch Verkehr, Handel und illegales Aussetzen der Tiere überdurchschnittlich viele neue Fundpunkte bekannt. Seit dem Jahr 2008 ist das Entstehen neuer Vorkommen auf das 9fache verglichen mit den Jahrzehnten davor angestiegen. Nicht bewiesen aber wahrscheinliche Ursachen liegen im Klimawandel und der Globalisierung der Wirtschaft, was eine Ausbreitung fördert. Ökologische und biologische Vorteile der Mauereidechsenpopulationen werden diskutiert.
Hahnemann, S. & Pannek, M. (2020) -
Haider, M. (2017) -
Hailey, A. (1982) -
Hailey, A. & Gaitanaki, C. & Loumbourdis, N.S. (1987) -
1. 1. Whole-body lactate production during intense activity was insensitive to body temperature Tb from 25 to 35°C in the lizard Podarcis taurica. 2. 2. Whole-body lactate removal during recovery was more sensitive to Tb from 15 to 35°C and was two orders of magnitude slower than production. 3. 3. At 30°C a significant oxygen debt persisted for a similar period to elevated lactate. 4. 4. Lizards recovering in refuges at 25 or 35°C emerged later than unexercised lizards, while, at 15°C they emerged after a short period and speeded recovery by basking.
Hain, C. (2014) -
Hain, C. (2019) -
Es wird über eine allochthone Population der Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) im Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord berichtet. Nach der Einschätzung des Autors handelt es sich hierbei wahrscheinlich um die Unterart Podarcis muralis brongniardii.
The article describes an allochthonous population of the wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in the landscape park Duisburg-Nord. According to the author these lizards probably represent the subspecies Podarcis muralis brongniardii.
Hajian, R. & Javanbakht, H. (2021) -
Coccidian (Apicomplexa: Coccidia) parasites have been reported in almost all groups of vertebrates. These parasites may cause serious ecological and pathological effects to their hosts. Reptiles were found the be the host of the parasites of the genera Schellackia and Lankesterella, as these parasites undergo their entire life cycle in the reptilian body, with an intermediate stage of dormancy in the tissues of a hematophagus transmitter (generally a mite or a mosquito), until the next reptilian host swallows the infected insect. However, very little is known about the prevalence and intensity of these parasites in most of their distribution area, which is the focus of the current study. To do so, the prevalence and intensity of these blood parasites in three species of lizards, including Ophisops elegans, Trapelus lessonae and Eremias monticola from Markazi Province of Iran were investigated. Samples of blood were collected from the caudal vein of 51 lizards of the aforementioned species by insulin syringes, then the blood smears were dried, fixed with methanol and stained with Giemsa solution. Prepared blood samples were then examined by means of light microscopy, using a 100× magnification objective lens. 41 percent of the 51 examined samples were found to be infected by haemococcidians blood parasites from the family Lankesterellidae. The mean intensity of parasites in the three species were between 0.03-0.05%. The investigation revealed a relatively high percentage of prevalence and intensity of blood parasites in lizards of central part of Iran. The results showed the presence of a complete set of various vectors for the spread of haemoparasites in the area. Therefore, future researches are strongly recommended to utilize genetic markers in order to obtain a better identification of the parasites.
Hajiyan, R. & Javanbakht, H. (2022) -
Reptiles are known hosts of a wide variety of parasites, including haemoparasites. Species of Lankestrella (Apicomplexa; Haemococcidia) have been described from the blood of lizards distributed in American and western European areas. In the present study, we characterized morphologically and molecularly the haemococcidian parasites (sporozoites) that infect the blood cells of Eremias persica and Ophisops elegans, two species of lacertid lizards from central Iran. By the microscopic examination of the smears, we identified parasites as the genus Lankestrella. In total, two positive samples of each species have investigated the basis of the partial 18S rRNA gene analyses. The result of similarity analysis with our sequences using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) indicated a11 four parasites belonging to one haplotype of Lankestrella sp. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the new Lankestrella sp is related to Lankestrella sp identified from two lizards belonging to Spain and Socotra Archipelago. This is the first report of Lankestrella parasites in the new lizard`s host. The present study provided additional information about the new host of Lankestrella species and added new knowledge to clarify the future phylogenetic relationship between these parasites. Our results emphasize the importance of screening haemococcidian parasites in Iran.
Håkansson, N.T. (1981) -
Forty-two species of reptiles known to occur in The Gambia are listed together with notes on habitat and behavior. Two of the species in the list are for the first time recorded north of the rain forest limit in West Africa. Gallery forest in The Gambia acts as a faunal refuge for reptiles and other animals whose distribution otherwise is confined to tropical rainforest.
Hakim, J. & Trageser, S.J. & Ghose, A. & Das, K. & Abdur Rashid, S.M. & Rahman, S.C. (2020) -
An annotated inventory of the herpetofauna of Lawachara National Park in Bangladesh is presented, based primarily on original field observations recorded during a six-year survey of the park. A total of 71 species are reported, includ¬ing 19 Anura, one Apoda, two Chelonii, and 49 Squamata. The course of the survey revealed 16 range extensions including 11 new country records for Bangladesh. Eight of the 16 range extensions including six of the 11 country records are reported here for the first time. Deleted from previous Lawachara National Park checklists are 23 species that had been erroneously reported due to misidentification or the splitting or synonymization of species.
Haklová-Kociková, B. & Hiznanová, A. & Majláth, I. & Racka, K. & Földvárui, G. & Tryjanowski, P. & Kokosová, N. & Malceková, B. & Majláthová, V. (2014) -
Background: Blood parasites of the genus Karyolysus Labbé, 1894 (Apicomplexa: Adeleida: Karyolysidae) represent the protozoan haemogregarines found in various genera of lizards, including Lacerta, Podarcis, Darevskia (Lacertidae) and Mabouia (Scincidae). The vectors of parasites are gamasid mites from the genus Ophionyssus. Methods: A total of 557 individuals of lacertid lizards were captured in four different localities in Europe (Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia) and blood was collected. Samples were examined using both microscopic and molecular methods, and phylogenetic relationships of all isolates of Karyolysus sp. were assessed for the first time. Karyolysus sp. 18S rRNA isolates were evaluated using Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood analyses. Results: A total of 520 blood smears were examined microscopically and unicellular protozoan parasites were found in 116 samples (22.3% prevalence). The presence of two Karyolysus species, K. latus and K. lacazei was identified. In total, of 210 samples tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the presence of parasites was observed in 64 individuals (prevalence 30.5%). Results of phylogenetic analyses revealed the existence of four haplotypes, all part of the same lineage, with other parasites identified as belonging to the genus Hepatozoon. Conclusions: Classification of these parasites using current taxonomy is complex - they were identified in both mites and ticks that typically are considered to host Karyolysus and Hepatozoon respectively. Furthermore although distortions to the intermediate host erythrocyte nuclei were observed, the defining characteristic of Karyolysus, the haplotypes were nearly identical to those reported from lizards in the Iberian Peninsula, where such distortions were not reported and which were thus identified as Hepatozoon. Based on the phylogenetic analyses, neither vertebrate host, nor geographical patterns of the studied blood parasites could be established.
Haleš, J. (1991) -
Hales, J. (1991) -
Hallermann, J. (1998) -
Hallmann, G. (1981) -
Hallmann, G. (2011) -
Hallowell, E. (1857) -
Halver, R. (1931) -
Hamann, K. (2012) -
Hamann, K. & Möller, K. (2010) -
Hamann, M. & Uthoff, H.-D. (1994) -
The amphibians and reptiles of Gelsenkirchen, a large industrial city in the midst of the Ruhr area (Northrhine-Westphalia, Germany), were recorded from 1982 until 1994 both äs to quality and äs to quantity; their distribution is shown on the basis of a square-kilometre-map. Put in order of frequency, ten species of amphibians (edible frog, natterjack, grass frog, smooth newt, common toad, alpine newt, warty newt, midwife toad, pool frog and lake frog) and four species of reptiles (viviparous lizard, grass snake, slow worm and sand lizard, the last one missing) were recorded. In 47% of 139 squares no amphibians or reptiles were found at all. A clear difference between the distribution patterns of some species in the northern and the southern part of the city is discussed with regard to a different ground utilisation. Therefore and because of the intensive utilisation of the uncolonized area, several species (warty newt, alpine newt, midwife toad, common toad, grass frog, all reptiles) are more endangered in Gelsenkirchen compared with the rest of Westphalia. Destruction of the habitats by increasing ground utilisation (development, intensive recovery, drainage) is regarded äs the main reason of endangering; different strategies of protection (f.e. purposive development of habitats, their improvement and maintenance, restoring of impaired habitats) are named. Especially mentioned are secondary habitats such äs urban resp. industrial fallows and landslides caused by mining because of their significance for the protection of amphibians and reptiles, also.
Hamilton, D.W. (1963) -
Hamilton, R. (2021) -
Hamilton, R. & Mateo, J.A. & Hernández-Acosta, C.N. & López-Jurado, L.F. (2016) -
Hammerschmidt, N. & Laufer, H. (2011) -
Hammon, U. (2021) -
Short note on the successful hibernation of young Podarcis muralis maculiventris.
Han, X. & Hao, X. & Wang, Y. & Wang, X. & Teng, L. & Liu, Z. & Zhang, F. & Zhang, Q. (2020) -
Reptiles are especially vulnerable to climate warming because their behavior, physiology, and life history are highly dependent on environmental temperature. In this study, we envisaged new probable mechanisms underlying the high vulnerability of lizards, wherein heat exposure induces oxidative stress and leads to immunosuppression. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a warming experiment on a lizard (Eremias multiocellata) from a desert steppe in Inner Mongolia from May to September using open-top chambers set up in their natural habitat and compared the components of oxidative stress (antioxidant ability [Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity], extent of oxidative damage [malondialdehyde (MDA) content]), and immunocompetence (white blood cells [WBC] counts and immunoglobulin M [IgM] expression) between the warming and control groups. At the end of the experiment, the warming treatment did not affect the survival rate of the lizards. However, MDA content, but not SOD activity, was significantly higher in the warming group than in the control group. The WBC counts and IgM expression were significantly lower in the warming group than in the control group. Our results verified our hypothesis and provided novel cues and methods for the investigation of the mechanisms behind the high probability of extinction of other ectotherms under warming conditions.
Hanau, A. (1875) -
Handal, E.N. & Amr, Z.S. & Qumsiyeh, M.B. (2016) -
Handke, U. & Lieckweg, A. & Lieckweg, T. & Kutter, T. (2022) -
Hanekamp, G. & Stumpel, A.H.P. (1983) -
Hanke, G.F. & Deichsel, G. (2020) -
Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus) is known from scattered locations in the United States, including Orcas Island, Washington, where a population went unreported for about a decade, but was confirmed in 2017. On 19 June 2019, a single adult female P. siculus was caught in an industrial area along the northern arm of the Fraser River in Vancouver, British Columbia; this represents the first record of this species on the loose in Canada. No other P. siculus were sighted in the Vancouver area. We assume this Canadian P. siculus was a lone stow-away and had not deposited eggs. We could not determine how it entered the province.
Hannah, E.A. & Geoffrey, M. & While, G.M. & Uller, T. (2017) -
Non‐native animals can encounter very different environments than those they are adapted to. Functional changes in morphology, physiology and life‐history following introduction show that organisms can adapt both fast and efficiently. It remains unclear, however, if female reproductive characters and male sexually selected behaviour show the same adaptive potential. Furthermore, the invasion success and evolutionary trajectory of non‐native species might often depend on the ability of the sexes to coordinate shifts in characters associated with reproductive strategy. The common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, has been repeatedly introduced from southern Europe to England over the past 80 years. Lizards in England experience a cool, seasonal climate that effectively restricts recruitment to the first clutch of the season, whereas in their native range up to three clutches per season recruit. As a consequence, both females and males in non‐native populations should benefit from reducing or even eliminating their reproductive investment in second clutches. Using a combination of field data and experiments, we show that non‐native females produce relatively larger and heavier first seasonal clutches and smaller and lighter second seasonal clutches compared to native females. In contrast, non‐native and native males do not differ in their territorial and sexual behaviour later in the season. An adaptive shift in male seasonal reproductive investment may be constrained because males use breeding females as cues for sexual behaviour. If this is so, we expect a general pattern across climatic regimes whereby female reproductive investment evolves first, with responses in males lagging behind.
Hansen, B. & Fröhlich, J. & Gettner, S. & Weber, A. & Piening, A. & Scheffler, P. & Klinge, A. & Winkler, C. (2024) -
Hansen, R.S. (2010) -
Hao, Q.-L. & Liu, H.-X. & Ji, X. (2006) -
We used the Mongolian racerunner Eremias argus as a model animal to evaluate the effects of constant versus fluctuating incubation temperatures on hatching success and hatchling phenotypes. Eggs were incubated under four constant [24, 27, 30 and 33 (±0.3) °C] and one fluctuating temperature regimes. Hatching success did not differ among treatments, and incubation temperature did not affect the sexual phenotype of hatchlings. Incubation length decreased exponentially as incubation temperature increased, and eggs incubated at fluctuating temperatures took a longer time to complete development than did those incubated at constant temperatures with the same mean. Of the hatchling phenotypes examined, body dry mass, carcass dry mass, residual yolk dry mass and locomotor performance of hatchlings were more likely to be affected by incubation temperature. Overall, locomotor performance was best in the low temperature treatments (24 °C and 27 °C) and worst in the high temperature treatment (33 °C), with the moderate temperature treatments (30 °C and fluctuating temperatures) in between. Our data show that: (1) daily exposure of eggs to extreme temperatures that are potentially lethal to embryos for brief periods does not have detectable adverse effects on hatching success and morphological phenotypes in E. argus; and (2) thermal fluctuations exert no positive effects on locomotor performance of hatchlings but influence incubation length differently than constant temperatures with the same mean.
Hao, W. & Zhang, Y. & Xie, Y. & Guo, B. & Chang, J. & Li, J. & Hu, P. & Wan, H. (2018) -
Enantioselective toxicokinetics, accumulation, and toxicity of myclobutanil were investigated by oral exposure of myclobutanil enantiomers to lizards. After a single oral administration, the absorption half-lives () and elimination half-lives () were in the range of 0.133–14.828 and 3.641–17.682 h, respectively. The absorption and elimination half-lives of (+)-myclobutanil showed no significant differences from those of (-)-myclobutanil in lizard blood, whereas preferential enrichment of (-)-enantiomer was observed in the liver, fat, skin, intestine, lung and kidney. In the bioaccumulation experiments, the residue of (-)-myclobutanil was detected in most tissues at 7, 14, and 28 days, while (+)-myclobutanil was found only in lizard skin, at a concentration lower than that of (-)-myclobutanil. Thus, (-)-myclobutanil was preferentially accumulated in lizards. The transcriptional responses of metabolic enzyme genes indicated that cytochrome P450 1a1 (cyp1a1), cyp2d3, cyp2d6, cyp3a4 and cyp3a7 played a crucial role in the metabolism of (+)-myclobutanil, whereas cyp1a1, cyp2d3, cyp2d6, cyp2c8, and cyp3a4 contributed to the metabolism of (-)-myclobutanil. The difference in metabolism pathways may be a reason for the enantioselectivity of myclobutanil in lizard. Myclobutanil also affected the expression of antioxidant enzyme genes, and the (+)-myclobutanil treatment might produce higher oxidative stress in lizard liver when compared with its antipode. Hepatic histopathological changes such as hepatocellular hypertrophy, nuclear pyknosis, vacuolation, and non-zonal macrovesicular lipid accumulation were observed in the liver of lizards for both (+)-myclobutanil and (-)-myclobutanil treatments. Thus, myclobutanil could affect lizard liver upon multiple exposure. The findings of this study provide specific insights into the enantioselective metabolism and toxicity of chiral triazole fungicides in lizards.
Hao, W. & Zhang, Y. & Xu, P. & Xie, Y. & Li, W. & Wang, H. (2021) -
The enantioselective accumulation, elimination and metabolism of fenbuconazole in lizards were determined following a single-dose (25 mg/kgbw) exposure to racemic or enantiomeric fenbuconazole. Accumulation of fenbuconazole was found in lizard fat with rac-form > enantiopure enantiomers. The enantiomer fractions (EFs) were higher than 0.5 in the blood, while EFs were less than 0.5 in the liver, brain, skin and stomach. There was conversion from (+)-fenbuconazole to (−)-fenbuconazole in lizard liver and conversion from (−)-fenbuconazole to (+)-fenbuconazole in lizard liver and blood. The results showed that enantioselective accumulation appeared in lizards, but the direction varied among blood and different tissues. The elimination half-lives (t1/2) of (+)-fenbuconazole were higher than those of (−)-fenbuconazole in the blood and liver, suggesting that (−)-fenbuconazole eliminated faster than (+)-fenbuconazole in these tissues. In addition, both (+)-fenbuconazole and (−)-fenbuconazole eliminated faster in the liver and stomach exposed to racemate than those exposed to enantiopure enantiomers. On the contrary, the form of racemate decreased the elimination rate of fenbuconazole in lizard fat. Synergistic elimination may occur when two enantiomers coexisted in lizard liver and stomach, while the racemate produced antagonistic elimination in lizard fat. Simultaneously, three metabolites, RH-6467, RH-9029&RH-9030 and keto-mchlorophenol, were discovered in lizard liver. Only two metabolites, RH-6467 and RH-9029&RH-9030, were found in lizard blood. RH-9029&RH-9030 were the major metabolites. The discovered enantiomers of (+)-fenbuconazole metabolites were different from those of (−)-fenbuconazole. The findings of this study may provide a better understanding of the enantioselective behaviors of chiral triazole fungicides in reptiles.
Hao, X. & Tao, S.A. & Meng, Y. & Liu, J.Y. & Cui, L.X. & Liu, W.-L. & Sun, B.J. & Liu, P. & Zhao, W.G. (2020) -
Thermal biology traits reflect thermal adaptations to an environment and can be used to infer responses to climate warming in animal species. Within a widespread genus or species, assessing the latitudinal or altitudinal gradient of thermal physiological tra its is essential to reveal thermal adaptations and determine future vulnerability to climate warming geographically. We determined the thermal biology traits of a cold-climate distributed lizard, Takydromus amurensis, and integrated published thermal biology traits within the genus Takydromus to reveal a preliminary geographical pattern in thermal adaptation. The mean selected body temperature (cloaca temperature; Tsel), critical thermal maximum (CTmax), critical thermal minimum (CTmin), and optimal temperature for locomotion (i.e., sprint speed; Topt) of T. amurensis were 32.6, 45.1, 3.1, and 33.4 °C, respectively. The resting metabolic rates of T. amurensis were positively related to temperature from 18 °C to 38 °C. We compared the traits of tropical T. sexlineatus, subtropical T. septentrionalis, and T. wolteri with T. amurensis and found that the CTmax and thermal tolerance range (the difference between CTmax and CTmin; TTR) increased toward high latitudes, whereas CTmin increased toward low latitudes in these four Takydromus lizards. According to this preliminary pattern, we speculate the species at medium and low latitudes would be more vulnerable to extreme heat events caused by ongoing climate warming. We highlight the importance of integrating thermal biology traits along geographical clues, and ist potential contribution to evaluate the vulnerabilities of species in the context of climate warming.
Hao, X. & Zou, T.T. & Han, X.Z. & Du, W.G. (2021) -
1.As postulated by life‐history theory, not all life‐history traits can be maximized simultaneously. In ectothermic animals, climate warming is predicted to increase growth rates, but at a cost to overall life span. Maternal effects are expected to mediate this life‐history trade‐off, but such effects have not yet been explicitly elucidated. 2. To understand maternal effects on the life‐history responses to climate warming in lizard offspring, we conducted a manipulative field experiment on a desert‐dwelling viviparous lacertid lizard Eremias multiocellata, using open‐top chambers in a factorial design (maternal warm climate and maternal present climate treatments × offspring warm climate and offspring present climate treatments). 3. We found that the maternal warm climate treatment had little impact on the physiological and life‐history traits of adult females (i.e. metabolic rate, reproductive output, growth and survival). However, the offspring warm climate treatment significantly affected offspring growth, and both maternal and offspring warm climate treatments interacted to affect offspring survival. 4. Offspring from the warm climate treatment grew faster than those from the present climate treatment. However, the offspring warm climate treatment significantly decreased the survival rate of offspring from maternal present climate treatment, but not for those from the maternal warm climate treatment. 5. Our study demonstrates that maternal effects mediate the trade‐off between growth and survival of offspring lizards, allowing them to grow fast without a concurrent cost of low survival rate (short life span). These findings stress the importance of adaptive maternal effects in buffering the impact of climate warming on organisms, which may help us to accurately predict the vulnerability of populations and species to future warming climates.
Happ, H. & Happ, F. (1999) -
Erster Nachweis von Schwarzfärbung bei einer Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) in Kärnten. Der Fundort liegt im Gemeindegebiet von Bad Eisenkappel in 980 m Seehöhe an der Südwestseite der Petzen, eineem Bergmassiv der Karawanken im Südosten des Landes.
Happ, U. & Wallner, A. & Smole-Wiener, A.K. & Gutleb, B (1999) -
Haran, T. & Hawlena, D. (2018) -
Harbst, D. (2005) -
Harbug, R. (1993) -
Haris, D.J. (2001) -
Harmsel, R. ter (2020) -
Haro, D. (2018) -
Understanding how organisms respond to climatic variability and novel conditions is becoming an increasingly important task for ecologists. For ectotherms in the northern hemisphere, the response to cold is of special interest, considering that poleward range expansion events and increasing variability of temperatures during winter are already being observed as consequences of a warming planet. Though direction of change in physiological variables in response to cold is well studied in ectotherms, the extent to which traits can change and the rate at which they can change is not. We compared the extent and rate of change in cold tolerance (CTmin) between two long-term captive populations of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) during a lab cold-acclimation treatment. Heat tolerance (CTmax), thermal preference (Tpref), temperature dependent rates of oxygen consumption (SMRO2), and temperature dependent rates of water loss (EWL) were also compared between Italian wall lizards previously introduced to Long Island, NY and San Pedro, CA before and after the lab cold acclimation treatment. Because our study coincided with a cold snap during the spring 2018 season for the San Pedro, CA population, we also studied the effects of cold acclimatization on wild lizards from the CA population. After initial lab acclimation of the lizards to laboratory conditions, SMRO2 at 15°C and EWL at 10°C were higher in NY lizards compared to CA lizards. Lizards from the two populations did not differ in any other variables measured before the cold acclimation treatment. We found that lizards from the NY population experienced an 80% decrease in CTmin following a switch from 20°C:18°C to 17.5°C:16°C (12h light:12h dark) acclimation treatment. Lizards from the CA population did not decrease CTmin in response to the same cold acclimation treatment. Overall, NY lizards decreased CTmin, CTmax, and Tpref following cold acclimation, whereas CA lizards decreased CTmax only. Wild CA lizards decreased CTmax following the cold spring 2018 season in a manner similar to that of lab acclimated NY and CA lizards, suggesting that these lizards do not maintain a high CTmax when the environment is unlikely to expose them to high temperatures. Thermal sensitivity (Q10) of SMRO2 and EWL was lower in NY lizards, suggesting physiological adaptation to fluctuation in diurnal temperatures. The ratio of CO2 produced to O2 consumed (respiratory exchange ratio, RER) measured at 15°C increased in NY lizards following cold acclimation suggesting an increased use of carbohydrates and/or an increased production of lipids in the colder conditions. These responses in combination with the higher observed plasticity in NY lizards are in accordance with the climatic variability hypothesis, which predicts that organisms from more variable climates will be better adapted to physiologically respond to variable conditions. The higher capacity for physiological plasticity may explain the relatively high success of P. siculus in NY and other northern U.S. states. By describing the rate of change of CTmin during cold acclimation we hope to better understand how these lizards minimize the risk of low temperature exposure during winter. We ultimately hope to incorporate the rate at which cold tolerance can change into predictions of species distributions and hypothesis tests investigating the relationship between climatic variability and the rate at which animals can exhibit plasticity.
Harris, D. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2011) -
Harris, D.J. (1998) -
Harris, D.J. (1999) -
In recent years there has been an exponential increase in the amount of published DNA sequences, as it has become one of the most popular sources of data for reconstructing phylogenies. A number of studies have attempted to resolve the relationships of groups of lacertids using mitochondrial DNA sequence data, in particular Podarcis and Gallotia (e.g. THORPE et al., 1994; 1996; GONZALEZ et al., 1996; FU et al., 1997; HARRIS, 1997; HARRIS et al., 1998a; 1999; CASTILLA et al., 1999a,b). Reassessment of these data suggest some alternative phylogenies to those previously published, and also highlight possible problems. Two studies have attempted to unravel the phylogeny of the whole family using mitochondrial DNA sequences (FU, 1998; HARRIS et al., 1998b). By combining these essentially congruent data sets, and reanalysing levels of support for the phylogenies produced, a more complete estimate of relationships across the family is produced. This is then compared to alternative sources of evidence, primarily morphological (ARNOLD, 1989), biochemical (MAYER & BENYR, 1994) and karyological (OLMO et al., 1993). Reasons for discrepencies are discussed, as are the relative advantages and disadvantages of the different sources of phylogenetic inference.
Harris, D.J. (2001) -
Harris, D.J. (2008) -
The IUCN red list of threatened species is the most complete resource defining the global status of plants and animals. Red list indices tend to show threat-status deterioration over time in fully assessed taxonomic groups, such as birds. However, the effect of taxonomic inflation, and especially biases towards the naming of taxa that would qualify as threatened in red lists, remains relatively unexamined. Here I assess the effect of taxonomic inflation and various species concepts on reptiles from the Mediterranean Basin. A proportionally high percentage of reptiles listed from this region in the higher threat categories are not good species under most definitions, and thus taxonomic inflation may also be inflating extinction risk trends.
Harris, D.J. (2010) -
Harris, D.J. & Perera, A. & Barata, M. & Tarroso, P. & Salvi, D. (2010) -
Additional data on the distribution of terrestrial herpetofauna from Morocco are pre- sented, based on fieldwork carried out in March and May 2008. Thirty-eight species were recorded from 78 localities. Some of these represent considerable range extensions for the species, indicating that more prospection is needed to complement the existing knowledge of herpetofauna from this country.
Harris, D.J. & Arnold, E.N. (1999) -
Mitochondrial DNA sequence data support conclusions based on morphology, that Podarcis is a clade and is derived from the paraphyletic genus Lacerta, its immediate outgroups being Lacerta andreanszkyi and then the sister species L. perspicillata and L. dugesii. Within Podarcis, there are four geographically coherent clades: the Western island group-filfolensis (lilfordi, pityusensis), tiliguerta; the Balkan group-[(melisellensis, taurica) (gaigeae, milenis) and perhaps wagleriana and (erhardii, peloponnesiaca)]; the Italian group-sicula, (raffonei, muralis); and the Southwestern group-(atrata, bocagei), hispanica.
Harris, D.J. & Arnold, E.N. (2000) -
Mitochondrial DNA sequences consisting of 645 sites from the 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes were used to estimate the phylogeny of 15 of the 32 species of spiny-footed lizards Acanthodactylus. The resultant tree has similarities to that produced from a differentially weighted data set of 32 morphological characters but there are also significant differences. However, combined analysis of molecular and morphological data sets produces the same tree topology as DNA sequence alone. The molecular data confirm that there are distinct eastern and western clades within Acanthodactylus, but place A. boskianus in the former while the A. scutellatus group constitutes a third clade. Species for which only morphological information is available were integrated with the combined tree to give a provisional phylogeny for 31 species. This phylogeny indicates that the ancestor of existing Acanthodactylus probably originated in south-west Asia and that North Africa was invaded by more than one lineage of the genus. It also suggests that soft aeolian sand habitats may have been independently occupied more than once. Molecular data provide independent evidence that the differential weighting of morphological characters in past analyses was appropriate.
Harris, D.J. & Arnold, E.N. & Thomas, R.H. (1998) -
DNA sequences from parts of the 12S, 16S and cytochrome b mitochondrial genes, which totalled 1049 aligned base pairs, were used to estimate the relationships of 49 species of Lacertidae, including representatives of 19 out of the 23 recognized genera and 23 species of the paraphyletic genus Lacerta. These data were used, together with morphological information, to estimate the relationships within the family. Molecular evidence corroborates the monophyletic status of many genera and species groups originally based on morphology. It indicates that Psammodromus forms a clade with Gallotia, which is the sister taxon of all other lacertids. These comprise three units: the primarily Afrotropical armatured group; the largely Oriental Takydromus; and the west Palaearctic Lacerta and its derivatives, Podarcis and Algyroides. Morphology also supports the first three assemblages, but suggests that they are derived from a paraphyletic Lacerta. Within Lacerta and its allies, DNA sequence analysis corroborates the affinity of some members of each of the subgenera Lacerta s. str. and Timon, and of the L. saxicola group. It also supports the relationship of L. monticola, L. bonnali and L. horvathi, and suggests that the L. parva–L. fraasi clade and L. brandti are not related to Psammodromus–Gallotia, as morphology indicates, but instead are associated respectively with the L. danfordi and L. saxicola groups. DNA sequence data provide additional evidence that the eastern Arabian `Lacerta` jayakari and `L.` cyanura are members of the armatured clade and also sister species. Our analysis supports an origin for present lacertids in west Eurasia. The armatured clade invaded Africa, probably in the mid-Miocene, spreading widely and evolving increasingly xeric-adapted forms, one lineage of which later moved back into the Palaearctic. `Lacerta` jayakari and `L.` cyanura are assigned to Omanosaura, Lutz and Mayer 1986. The name Gallotiinae Cano, Baez, Lopez-Jurado and Ortega, 1984 is available for the Gallotia–Psammodromus clade, Eremiainae Shcherbak 1975 for the armatured clade and Lacertinae for Lacerta, Podarcis and Algyroides. Two new subgenera of Lacerta are proposed here: Caucasilacerta for L. saxicola and its allies, and Parvilacerta for L. parva and L. fraasi.
Harris, D.J. & Arnold, E.N. & Arnold, E.N. (1998) -
Data derived from the morphology of the seven species of South African sand lizards, Meroles (Reptilia, Lacertidae), and their outgroups produce a robust estimate of phylogeny when a maximum parsimony approach is applied. The estimate is fully resolved with little character conflict and internal branches are relatively long. This analysis indicates that Meroles is a true clade that includes the aberrant lacertid long separated as Aporosaura anchietae. The tree is pectinate, its successive external branches representing species with increasing adaptation to desert conditions, especially aeolian sand habitats. This pattern, and the robustness of the tree, support a model of invasion of severe habitats in which successive rounds of speciation, displacement, and adaptation result in spread into extreme ecological situations. To test the robust morphological phylogeny and, indirectly, the model as well, DNA from mitochondrial 12S and 16S ribosomal genes was sequenced and analyzed by both maximum parsimony and maximum likelihood approaches. Trees produced were largely congruent with that derived from morphology, although different from ones resulting from protein electrophoresis. However, in contrast to the internal branches of the morphological tree, those of the DNA maximum likelihood tree are quite short. The DNA data provide some corroboration for the relationships within Meroles based on morphology and consequently for the model as well. The disparity in internal branch lengths between the maximum parsimony morphological and maximum likelihood DNA trees may well indicate that the multiple adaptations to desert conditions arising on the main lineage of Meroles evolved quite rapidly. In this study DNA thus not only corroborates the phylogeny but also provides evidence about another aspect of evolutionary history.
Harris, D.J. & Arnold, E.N. & Thomas, R.H. (1999) -
The four species of Algyroides Bibron & Bory, 1833 form part of the relatively plesiomorphic Palaearctic clade of lacertids comprising Lacerta and its allies. An estimate of phylogeny based on DNA sequence from parts of the 12S and 16S rRNA mitochondrial genes confirms the monophyly of the genus already suggested by several morphological features. The molecular data also indicates that relationships within the clade are: (A. nigropunctatus (A. moreoticus (A. fitzingeri, A. marchi))); this agrees with an estimate of phylogeny based on morphology that assumes the taxon ancestral to Alygroides was relatively robust in body form, and not strongly adapted to using crevices. Initial morphological evolution within Algyroides appears to involve adaptation to crypsis in woodland habitats. The most plesiomorphic form (A. nigropunctatus) is likely to have originally climbed extensively on tree boles and branches and there may have been two subsequent independent shifts to increased use of litter and vegetation matrices with related anatomical changes (A. moreoticus, A. fitzingeri), and one to increased use of crevices (A. marchi). Some members of Algyroides are strikingly similar in superficial morphology to particular species of the equatorial African genus Adolfus. This resemblance results from a combination of many shared primitive features plus a few independently acquired derived ones that are likely to give performance advantage in the relatively similar structural niches that these forms occupy. This study provides evidence that: (1) the use of a combination of molecular and morphological data may sometimes allow the estimation of ancestral anatomical features when these are otherwise unknown; (2) process considerations may permit a choice to be made in cases of character evolution where tree topology means that equally parsimonious alternatives exist; such decisions about character evolution may allow ecological shifts to be similarly assessed; (3) parallel evolution in ecological analogues may involve relatively few characters.
Harris, D.J. & Batista, V. (2004) -
Harris, D.J. & Batista, V. & Carretero, M.A. (2004) -
Conclusions. Our analyses indicate that Iberian A. e. erythrurus were separated from northern African forms around the time of the re-opening of the Straits of Gibraltar. This differs from Podarcis, which appear to have made two natural transmarine crossings (Harris et al., 2002) and from chamaeleons which were anthropogenically introduced to the Iberian Peninsula twice from genetically distinct source populations in North Africa (Paulo et al., 2002). As stated before, all taxa are not uniformly affected by the same geological event (Busack, 1986). More sampling from Algeria will be crucial in evaluating the distinctiveness of A. blanci. Within Morocco our data do not support the separation of A. e. lineomaculatus as a distinct species. However, patterns of relationships are not strongly supported by our preliminary data, and clearly more data will be needed to define more precisely the North African genetic lineages within the A. erythrurus species group.
Harris, D.J. & Batista, V. & Carretero, M.A. & Pinho, C. & Sá-Sousa, P. (2002) -
Harris, D.J. & Belliure, J. & Cuervo, J.J. (2018) -
Identification of high levels of intraspecific genetic variability is common among assessments of reptiles from the Iberian Peninsula, conforming to the “refugia within refugia” hypothesis. Divergent genetic lineages are often found to be allopatric, or with limited contact or hybrid zones; such zones are more widely reported in Northern Europe, leading to the “melting pots not hotspots” hypothesis. However, population level sampling is needed to determine if divergent lineages overlap, something that is often missing in phylogenetic studies. Mitochondrial genetic diversity was assessed within the lacertid lizard Acanthodactylus erythrurus across the Iberian Peninsula. Not only were highly divergent lineages recovered in the southern region, but also considerable admixture of these was identified, particularly in northern populations. This has implications for biogeographic scenarios, with patterns typically identified at a larger scale emerging within a single European southern refugium. It also indicates that divergent mtDNA lineages appear to freely mix, at least within this species, which has taxonomic implications.
Harris, D.J. & Carranza, S. & Arnold, E.N. & Pinho, C. & Ferrand, N. (2002) -
Aim To examine the effect of a known geological barrier on genetic variation within a wall lizard species complex. Location The Iberian Peninsula and North Africa. Methods Sequencing of partial 12S rRNA and cytochrome b mtDNA. Results The current distribution of genetic variability is not related to the opening of the Strait of Gibraltar. Conclusions Podarcis hispanica in North Africa is probably a species complex. The Strait of Gibraltar should not be used as a known barrier to gene flow in other land based organisms without careful sampling to test for multiple crossings since its formation.
Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. (2003) -
Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. & Brito, J.C. & Kaliotzopoulou, A. & Pinho, C. & Perera, A. & Vasconcelos, R. & Barata, M. & Barbosa, D. & Carvalho, S. & Fonseca, M.M. & Perez-Lanuza, G. & Rato, C. (2008) -
Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. & Perera, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Ferrand, N. (2003) -
Lacerta (Teira) perspicillata (Duméril and Bibron, 1839) is a small montane rockdwelling lizard, occurring in the western Maghreb (Morocco and Northwest Algeria) and in Menorca, where it has probably been introduced anthropogenically (Mayol, 1997). Intraspeci. c morphological variation is considerable. Some authors accept the existence of three subspecies, L. p. perspicillata, L. p. pellegrini and L. p. chabanaudi (Bons, 1968) but others consider them only morphotypes (Mayol, 1997). Although its phylogenetic relationships have been highly debated, mitochondrial sequence data suggest it is sister taxon to the Madeiran lizard Lacerta (Teira) dugesii (Harris et al., 1998; Oliverio et al., 2000). To investigate genetic diversity within L. perspicillata we sequenced part of the 12S rRNA gene from individuals from several populations including all three forms, and compared this to subspeci. c status.
Harris, D.J. & Maia, J.P.M.C. & Perera, A. (2012) -
The occurrence of Apicomplexan parasites in Podarcis wall lizards from the Iberian Peninsula and Balearic islands was studied by amplification and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene. Species from three genera, Hepatozoon, Sarcocystis and Eimeria were detected. The phylogenetic analysis of the 18S rRNA gene provides unexpected insights into the evolutionary history of these parasites. All Hepatozoon specimens were recovered as part of a clade already identified in lizards from North Africa. The Sarcocystis species, detected in Podarcis lilfordi from Cabrera island, in the Balearic Islands, appears related to Sarcocystis gallotiae, known only from endemic Gallotia lizards from the Canary Islands. Based on the lack of snake predators on this island, this parasite form presumably presents an atypical transmission cycle that uses the same host species as both intermediate and final host through cannibalism, like S. gallotiae. Eimeria is reported for the first time from Podarcis lizards. This study shows the power of detecting multiple different Apicomplexa parasites through screening of tail tissue samples and blood drops that are often collected in reptiles for other purposes.
Harris, D.J. & Pinho, C. & Carretero, M.A. & Corti, C. & Böhme, W. (2005) -
Conclusions Podarcis tiliguerta appears to be a species complex. Further morphological and molecular analyses will be needed to confirm this. Podarcis sicula is not sister taxon to P. muralis, nor is P. wagleriana a genetic lineage within P. filfolensis as has been previously suggested. However relationships between most Podarcis species remain unresolved.
Harris, D.J. & Pinho, C. & Ferrand, N. (2004) -
Harris, D.J. & Sá-Sousa, P. (2001) -
Wall lizards (Podarcis) are the dominant reptile group across most of southern Europe. Their taxonomy is complex because most species exhibit substantial intraspecific morphological polymorphisms. We have estimated the phylogeny of the particularly diverse western Iberian forms using partial cytochrome oxidase and cytochrome b mitochondrial DNA sequence data and have compared this against morphological variation. Of the two currently recognized species in the area-Podarcis hispanica and P. bocagei-neither is monophyletic, and extremely high genetic diversity between newly identified forms (up to 15% cytochrome b divergences) indicates that both are species complexes. Podarcis b. bocagei is genetically distinct from P. (b.) carbonelli which appears to be a separate species using both mtDNA and protein electrophoretic data. The insular form previously assigned to P. b. berlengensis, and sometimes argued to deserve species status is not genetically distinct from P. (b.) carbonelli using the mtDNA sequences. P. hispanica can be separated into at least four highly divergent groups, two in western Iberia, one in eastern Iberia and one in North Africa.
Harris, D.J. & Sá-Sousa, P. (2002) -
Phylogenetic relationships between species and morphotypes of Podarcis wall lizards from the Iberian Peninsula and north Africa were estimated using partial 12S rRNA and cytochrome b mitochondrial DNA sequences. All species except Podarcis hispanica form monophyletic units. P. hispanica is paraphyletic, although all identified morphotypes are monophyletic. These morphotypes represent highly divergent lineages showing 10–15% pairwise sequence divergence with the cytochrome b gene. The data suggest that P. hispanica is a species complex. We recommend using P. hispanica* until additional sampling delimits the number and ranges of species currently referred to P. hispanica. P. carbonelli, which has recently been raised to species status, is confirmed as a genetically distinct form. P. atrata is genetically distinct, but much more closely related to some populations of P. hispanica than previously thought.
Harris, D.J. & Salvador, A. (2011) -
Harris, D.J. & Sergiadou, D. & Faria, J.F. (2024) -
Patterns of morphological and genetic diversity within the fringe-toed lizards of the genus Acanthodactylus have puzzled systematists since the first assessments, and none more so than the Acanthodactylus erythrurus complex. A recent study combining multi-locus sequence data and morphological characters partially resolved the situation, identifying two new species in the southern part of the range in Morocco, but leaving an unresolved “Ibero-Moroccan” clade containing much of the genetic and morphological diversity. Here we sequenced a mitochondrial marker for new samples from across much of the distribution. Our data notably increase the known ranges of various species and lineages found in Morocco, and indicate a divergent genetic lineage within one of the newly described species. While far greater numbers of genetic markers will be needed to resolve taxonomic questions, greater geographic sampling is also still needed both to delimit the species, and to identify regions where potential genetic admixture may occur.
Harris, D.J. & Sinclair, E.A. & Mercader, N.L. & Marshall, J.C. & Crandall, K.A. (1999) -
Harris, D.J. & Varela-Pereira, A.C. & Faria, J.F. & S`Khifa, A. & Vasconcelos, D. & Marshall, J.C. & Slimani, T. (2023) -
Atlantolacerta andreanskyi (Werner, 1929) is an endemic lizard from the High Atlas Mountains region of Morocco. A previous molecular assessment of this species using mitochondrial and nuclear DNA markers uncovered extensive genetic diversity with seven lineages indicative of a species complex. A morphological assessment of six of these lineages did not establish simple diagnostic features, and proposed these should be considered as a cryptic species, while highlighting the need for greater sampling across the range. In this study, we sampled 8 individuals from 5 previously unsampled localities and carried out genetic analyses to compare these populations to the known variation. Phylogenetic reconstruction based on mitochondrial DNA markers (12S rRNA and ND4) corroborates the previously described lineages and identified a new one. Interestingly, the two samples that account for this newly identified lineage have been collected from distinct localities – M’goun and Toumliline – that form a sister taxon to the population of Jbel Azourki.
Harta, I. & Winkler, D. & Erdö, A. (2017) -
HABITAT SELECTION OF THE EUROPEAN GREEN LIZARD [Lacerta viridis (LAURENTI, 1768)] IN THE FERTŐMELLÉKI HILLS. The aim of this research was to determine the habitat selection of the European Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis) in the aera of the Fertőmelléki Hills (Northwest Hungary). During the field work 60 lizard individuals` (adult, yearling, hatchling) habitat-texture were quantified also including the hideaways and perching sites. For the lizard survey the line transect method was used. Field data set was evaluated using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to test which factor mostly affect the three age groups of lizards and Discriminant Function Analysis (DA) to identify differences in lizard habitat pattern. According to the results, habitat selection of the European Green Lizard is mostly affected by the habitat mosaic structure. Both PCA and DA analyses yielded significant differences in habitat choice between the three age groups studied. The most important proposal for the active protection of this species is the appropriate treatment of edge ecotones.
Härtel, H. & Plesker, M. (1997) -
Harting, M. (2011) -
Hartmann, C. & Laufer, H. (2011) -
Hartmann, C. & Schulte, U. (2017) -
Hartmann, M. (1953) -
Hartung, H. & Koch, A. (1988) -
Hartwig, F. (1973) -
Harutyanyan, T.K. & Danielyan, F.D. & Arakelyan, M.S. (2015) -
Harutyunyan, T. & Arakelyan, M. & Danielyan F. (2010) -
Harutyunyan, T. & Petrosyan, R.K. & Danielyan, F.D. & Arakelyan, M.S. (2013) -
Հարությունյան, Թ.Կ. & Պետրոսյան, Ռ.Կ. & Դանիելյան, Ֆ.Դ. & Առաքելյան, Մ.Ս. (2013) -
Համեմատվել են Երևանի Հրազդանի կիրճի Darevskia nairensis և Գեղարդի տարածքի D. raddei-ի ժայռային մողեսների պոպուլյացիաները: Նկարագրվել է արյան մակաբույծերով և էկտոմակաբույծներով վարակվածությունը` ելնելով սեզոնային և տարածքային առանձնահատկություններից: Сравнивались популяции скальных ящериц Darevskia nairensis из территории Еревана (ущелье Раздан) и D. raddei из территории Гегарда. Описaнa зараженность экто- и кровепаразитaми в зависимости от сезонных и региональных особенностей.
Harutyunyan, T.K. (2011) -
The infections by blood parasites in sympatric populations of rock lizards D. raddei and D. portchinskii were studied. 121 adult individuals have been observed. Infection by blood parasites depends on sex of host. D. raddei species is more infected than D. portchinskii.
Հարությունյան, Թ.Կ. (2011) -
Ուսումնասիրվել է արյան մակաբույծներով վարակվածությունը Darevskia raddei եւ D. portchinskii ժայռային մողեսների սիմպատրիկ պոպուլյացիաներում` 121 սեռա- հասուն առանձնյակների վրա: Արյան մակաբույծներով վարակունակությունը կարող է կախված լինել տեր-օրգանիզմի սեռից: Մի տեսակի մոտ շատ ավելի վարակված են արուները, մյուսի մոտ՝ էգերը: D. raddei-ի վարակվածության աստիճանն ավելի բարձր է, քան D. portchinskii մոտ: Исследовалась на зараженность кровепаразитами 121 половозрелой особи в симпатрических популяциях скальных ящериц D. raddei и D. portchinskii. Зараженность кровепаразитами может зависеть от пола хозяина. У одного вида больше заражены самцы, у других – самки. У D. raddei уровень зараженности выше, чем у D. portchinskii.
Haslewood, G.A.D. (1981) -
Hassan, M.M. & Abukashawa, S.M. & Papenfuss, T.J. (2015) -
A survey of the herpetofuna was conducted as part of a general biota survey of the Sudan. Sudan, with its vast territory, diverse climate, ecosystems, and habitats, is expected to have large variation in herpetofuna. In the current study investigation of lizards and geckos diversity has been conducted. During the current survey fourteen species were encountered including one species not previously documented. Family Agamidaeis represented by three species Agama spinosa, Uromastyxocellataand Pseudotrapelussinaitus. Eight speciesfrom the family Gekkonidae were recorded, these includedTropiocolotes steudneri, Ptyodactylus sp, Tarentola annularis, Stenodactylus sthenodactylus, Hemidactylus sp, Hemidactylus robustus, Ptyodactylus ragazzii and Cyrtopodion scabrum. The family Lacertidae is represented by two species,Acanthodactylus boskianus and a new record in Sudan of Mesalina guttulata. Family Scincidae is represented by two species Trachylepis quinquetaeniata and Chalcides ocellatushumilis.
Hassl, A. (2003) -
Hassl, A.R. (2012) -
Hatami, K. & Sayyadi, F. & Parto, P. & Yousefand, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2014) -
Studying and evaluating the sizes of erythrocytes and their nuclei in the nilson’s fringe-toad lizard, Acanthodactylus nilsoni from Qasr-e-shirin, Kermanshah Province, western Iran, using blood smears stained with Giemsa for the assessment of morphology and size parameters of the blood cells. The erythrocytes were then photographed using a camera microscope (Leica with Dinocapture 2.0)
Hatheuer, A. & Maletzky, A. (2011) -
Hauke, T. (2018) -
Häupl, M. (1982) -
Haupt, H. (2009) -
Hauschild, A. (1986) -
Hausemann, C. (2013) -
Hauser, D. (2009) -
Near Cannobio, at the Lake Maggiore, Italy, a male Podarcis siculus campestris was found that showed a completely patternless bronze dorsal color. The ventral side was entirely orange. No further specimens of this species were found.
Hauser, D. (2011) -
Hauser, D. (2014) -
A brief report about the observation of two black Zootoca vivipara that displayed some irregular red brown patches on their body. Furthermore, an almost single-coloured reddish brown juvenile of this species is presented.
Hauser, D. (2015) -
Hawkeswood, T.J. & Sommung, B. (2017) -
The Long-tailed Lizard, Takydromnus sexlineatis (Daudin, 1802)(Reptilia: Lacertidae) is recorded from the Sisaket farming district (near Ubon Ratachathani) during July 2017. Brief notes on its habitat are provided.
Hawlena, D. (2009) -
Colorful tails that become cryptic during ontogeny are found in diverse taxa. Nevertheless, the evolutionary bases for this change remain debated. Recent work suggests that colorful tails, deflective displays, and striped patterns may represent antipredator mechanisms used by immature lizards to compensate for being more active and hence more vulnerable to predation (increased movement hypothesis, IMH). I challenged the generality of IMH by comparing foraging behavior and frequency of tail displays across five Acanthodactylus lizards that vary in fundamental life history traits, before and after the tail changed color. As these species underwent changes in tail coloration, they congruently adopted less risky behaviors and reduced the frequencies of tail displays. Contrary to expectation, in two species, the hatchling risky behavior resulted not from increased movements but from longer stay in exposed microhabitats. I suggest that colorful tails and deflective tail displays are synergistic antipredator mechanisms neonates use to minimize the fitness consequences of using various risky behaviors rather than increased movement alone.
Hawlena, D. & Abramsky, Z. & Bouskila, A. (2010) -
Theory predicts that predators can reduce parasite abundance on prey by reducing prey density and through disproportionate predation on heavily infested individuals. We experimentally tested this prediction by examining the effects of bird predation on parasitic mite infestation of the prey lizard Acanthodactylus beershebensis. We manipulated predation by adding perches to arid scrubland, allowing avian predators to hunt for lizards in a habitat the birds would not normally use. Host density influenced parasite abundance in hatchlings, but not in older aged individuals and parasite abundance did not affect lizard host survival. Contrary to expectation mite abundance on adult lizards increased under low predation intensities. We explain these results by suggesting a novel hypothesis based on the assumption that the two components of predation, i.e. actual removal of prey and risk, exert contradictory effects on macroparasite abundance.
Hawlena, D. & Boochnik, R. & Abramsky, Z. & Bouskila, A. (2006) -
Ontogenetic changes in color and pattern that are not directly related to reproduction are very common yet remain a poorly understood phenomenon. One example is conspicuous colors in the tails of fish, amphibians, and reptiles that fade out later in life. We suggest a novel hypothesis: conspicuous tail colors that appear only in juveniles compensate for an increased activity level, deflecting imminent attacks to the tail. We observed blue-tailed, newly hatched lizards (Acanthodactylus beershebensis) in the field and compared 5 behavioral parameters with those of older individuals that had already lost their neonate coloration. In addition, we explored whether tail displays, often assumed to direct a predator`s attention to the tail, disappear with the color change. Striped blue-tailed hatchlings foraged more actively than 3-week-old juveniles, spent a longer time in open microhabitats, and performed deflective tail displays. In comparison, 2 other lacertids that do not undergo ontogenetic change did not switch to safer foraging when growing up. The results suggest that activity alteration may be a major factor affecting the ontogenetic color and pattern change. Active lizards that forage in open habitats increase their probability of attack by ambush predators. Conspicuous colors and deflection displays may shift attacks to the expendable tail, increasing the prey`s overall probability of surviving attacks. The persistence of both striped body pattern and blue tail fits the active foraging period of neonates and hence may be appropriate for other species that display a conspicuous tail accompanied by a striped pattern.
Hawlena, D. & Bouskila, A. (2001) -
Hawlena, D. & Bouskila, A. (2006) -
1 Patch structural complexity affects local species richness and population densities. Anthropogenic disturbance may alter complexity and heterogeneity, resulting in changes in community structure. Most studies in this area have dealt with human-induced habitat degradation. We investigated a converse situation, in which anthropogenic activity increases productivity and complexity of an arid habitat. 2 Recently, large areas in the northern Negev Desert have been altered: a series of contour catchments was constructed to accumulate run-off to support planted trees. We examined the effect of patch alteration by focusing on the lizard assemblage in the planted plots. Seven pairs of plots were established, one plot from each pair in a natural area and the other in an adjacent, altered slope. Lizards were captured using pitfall traps and environmental parameters were measured. To isolate the effects of trees as perches for avian predators, we ‘planted’ artificial trees in a loess plain and investigated the effect on an endemic lizard. 3 The structure of the lizard assemblage in the planted plots differed from that of the natural plots. Planted plots had a higher proportion of Mediterranean lizards and fewer desert species. Two local lizard species disappeared from the mosaic area of planted and natural plots. In addition, avian predators spent longer time in the artificial tree plots and reduced the lizard density compared to the natural plots. 4 The modification to the habitat generated only moderate changes in structure of the natural vegetation and this could not account for the observed changes in the lizard assemblage. Changes in the spatial use of the plots by avian predators was identified as the mechanism behind the observed distribution of lizard species. 5 Synthesis and applications. We argue that anthropogenic habitat modifications such as afforestation, urbanization, etc., can induce indirect biotic effects that may change the way and the scale at which different species respond to the habitat change. Such structural alteration may lead to species replacement and even to local extinction of specialist species. In order to protect biodiversity during large-scale management projects, alteration of biotic interactions should be considered in advance and large unaltered patches should be protected, otherwise indirect effects might cause greater impacts than the structural manipulation itself.
Hawlena, D. & Bouskila, A. & Abramsky, Z. (2004) -
Hawlena, D. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2009) -
Animal feeding ecology and diet are inXuenced by the fear of predation. While the mechanistic bases for such changes are well understood, technical diYculties often prevent testing how these mechanisms interact to aVect a mesopredator’s diet in natural environments. Here, we compared the insectivorous lizard Acanthodactylus beershebensis’ feeding ecology and diet between high- and low-risk environments, using focal observations, intensive trapping eVort and fecal pellet analysis. To create spatial variation in predation risk, we planted “artiWcial trees” in a scrubland habitat that lacks natural perches, allowing avian predators to hunt for lizards in patches that were previously unavailable to them. Lizards in elevated-risk environments became less mobile but did not change their microhabitat use or temporal activity. These lizards changed their diet, consuming smaller prey and less plant material. We suggest that diet shifts were mainly because lizards from risky environments consumed prey items that required shorter handling time.
Hawlena, D. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Cooper Jr., W.E. (2009) -
scape theory predicts that a prey should start escaping (flight initiation distance = FID) from a predator when the costs of fleeing and the cost staying are equal or until future fitness is maximized. Consequently, prey escape performances and current reproductive asset can affect FID. We tested effects of body condition, morphology, and whether the tail was regenerated or original on FID in the Balearic lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) by ourselves simulating predators. Lizards with better body condition had longer FID and lizards with longer intact tails had shorter FID. Lizards with regenerated tail presented shorter FID than lizards with intact tails. These results suggest that impaired escape performance is counterbalanced by fitness costs of tail regeneration or by alteration of escape behaviour. The weak association between morphology, body condition and FID suggest that escape performances and asset protection have relatively small effect on P. lilfordi escape decisions.
Hawlena, D. & Saltz, D. & Abramsky, Z. & Bouskila, A. (2010) -
Anthropogenic habitat perturbation is a major cause of population decline. A standard practice managers use to protect populations is to leave portions of natural habitat intact. We describe a case study in which, despite the use of this practice, the critically endangered lizard Acanthodactylus beershebensis was locally extirpated from both manipulated and natural patches within a mosaic landscape of an afforestation project. We hypothesized that increased structural complexity in planted patches favors avian predator activity and makes these patches less suitable for lizards due to a heightened risk of predation. Spatial rarity of natural perches (e.g., trees) in arid scrublands may hinder the ability of desert lizards to associate perches with low-quality habitat, turning planted patches into ecological traps for such species. We erected artificial trees in a structurally simple arid habitat (similar to the way trees were planted in the afforestation project) and compared lizard population dynamics in plots with these structures and without. Survival of lizards in the plots with artificial trees was lower than survival in plots without artificial trees. Hatchlings dispersed into plots with artificial trees in a manner that indicated they perceived the quality of these plots as similar to the surrounding, unmanipulated landscape. Our results showed that local anthropogenic changes in habitat structure that seem relatively harmless may have a considerable negative effect beyond the immediate area of the perturbation because the disturbed habitat may become an ecological trap.
Hawlitschek, O. & Franzen, M. & Glaw, F. (2016) -
DNA-Barcoding ist eine Methode zur Artbestimmung aller Organismen an Hand eines kurzen, standardisierten Fragments ihrer DNA, dem sogenannten Barcode. Barcoding ist im wissenschaftlichen Bereich besonders nützlich bei der Bestimmung schwer determinierbarer Eier- und Larvenstadien und der Entdeckung kryptischer Arten (Abb. 1, 2). Die Methode kann z. B. ohne Spezialwissen zur raschen Erfassung neu eingeschleppter Arten von Schädlingen und Parasiten genutzt werden. Zum erfolgreichen Einsatz des Barcoding ist aber eine genetische Datenbank sicher bestimmter Referenzsequenzen nötig. In der Arbeit von Hawlitschek et al. (2016) wird eine solche Datensammlung für die deutsche Herpetofauna vorgestellt. Mit Ausnahme des Hybridkomplexes der Wasserfrösche konnten alle Arten eindeutig durch Barcodes bestimmt werden. Auch die Bestimmung von Unterarten bei Feuersalamander und Ringelnatter war möglich. Über die bestehende Taxonomie hinaus konnten genetische Linien z. B. bei Ringelnatter, Kreuzotter und Mauereidechse identifiziert werden, die in Anlehnung an bereits bestehende Arbeiten versuchsweise in einen geographischen Bezug gesetzt wurden. DNA Barcoding ist eine zukunftsträchtige Methode, die voraussichtlich weiteren Eingang in viele Anwendungsbereiche auch in der Herpetologie finden wird.
Hawlitschek, O. & Morinière, J. & Dunz, A. & Franzen, M. & Rödder, D. & Glaw, F. & Haszprunar, G. (2016) -
We present the first comprehensive DNA barcoding study of German reptiles and amphibians representing likewise the first on the European herpetofauna. A total of 248 barcodes for all native species and subspecies in the country and a few additional taxa were obtained in the framework of the projects ‘Barcoding Fauna Bavarica’ (BFB) and ‘German Barcode of Life’ (GBOL). In contrast to many invertebrate groups, the success rate of the identification of mitochondrial lineages representing species via DNA barcode was almost 100% because no cases of Barcode Index Number (BIN) sharing were detected within German native reptiles and amphibians. However, as expected, a reliable identification of the hybridogenetic species complex in the frog genus Pelophylax was not possible. Deep conspecific lineages resulting in the identification of more than one BIN were found in Lissotriton vulgaris, Natrix natrix and the hybridogenetic Pelophylax complex. A high variety of lineages with different BINs was also found in the barcodes of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis), confirming the existence of many introduced lineages and the frequent occurrence of multiple introductions. Besides the reliable species identification of all life stages and even of tissue remains, our study highlights other potential applications of DNA barcoding concerning German amphibians and reptiles, such as the detection of allochthonous lineages, monitoring of gene flow and also noninvasive sampling via environmental DNA. DNA barcoding based on COI has now proven to be a reliable and efficient tool for studying most amphibians and reptiles as it is already for many other organism groups in zoology.
Haxhiu, I. (1998) -
Haxhui, I. (1991) -
The article gives bioecological and ecological data about Algyroides nigropunctatus, and details on its geographic distribution in Albania. The expeditions carried out in many regions for several years have proved that this species was very much spread in this country. Algyroides nigropunctatus has been discovered for the first time in 8 stations in the Alpes.
Heathcote, R.J.P. & Bell, E. & d`Ettorre, P. & While, G.. & Uller, T. (2014) -
Heathcote, R.J.P. & Dawson, D.A. & Uller, T. (2014) -
Human-assisted dispersal of the European wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) has created conservation concerns due to extensive introgression between normally allopatric and genetically distinct lineages. We characterised nine microsatellite loci that amplified in four mtDNA clades belonging to two main evolutionary lineages (broadly belonging to P. m. brogniardii and P. m. nigriventris) known to hybridise in England and Germany. All loci were autosomal and displayed 5–28 alleles. These loci will prove useful for population genetic and parentage studies in hybrid zones.
Heathcote, R.J.P. & While, G.M. & MacGregor, E.A. & Sciberras, J. & Leroy, C. & D`Ettorrew, P. & Uller, T. (2016) -
Phenotypic divergence in allopatry can facilitate speciation by reducing the likelihood that individuals of different lineages hybridize during secondary contact. However, few studies have established the causes of reproductive isolation in the crucial early stages of secondary contact. Here, we establish behavioural causes of assortative reproduction between two phenotypically divergent lineages of the European wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), which have recently come into secondary contact. Parentage was highly assortative in experimental contact zones. However, despite pronounced divergence in male phenotypes, including chemical and visual sexual signals, there was no evidence that females discriminated between males of the two lineages in staged interactions or under naturalistic free-ranging conditions. Instead, assortative reproduction was driven by male mate preferences and, to a lesser extent, male–male competition. The effects were more pronounced when the habitat structure promoted high lizard densities. These results emphasize that assortative reproduction can occur in the absence of female choice and that male behaviour may play an important role in limiting hybridization during the initial stages of secondary contact.
Hecht, G. (1928) -
Hecht, G. (1930) -
Hecht, G. (1931) -
Hecke, A. van (1973) -
Hecke, A. van (1975) -
A drowned Lacerta viridis was saved by pressing the water out of its lungs.
Hecke, A. van (1976) -
Hecke, A. van (2007) -
Heckenberger, A. (2015) -
Habitatmodelle können dazu beitragen Freilanderfassungen zu reduzieren, indem die Analyse der Habitatparameter bekannter Fundorte nachweisfreie Gebiete mit vergleichbarer Ausstattung als potentielle Lebensräume definiert (PLUTZAR 2001). Habitatmodelle kommen vor allem zur Bewertung der überregionalen Verbreitung einer Art zum Einsatz. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird ein statistisch empirisches Habitatmodell für die Mauereidechse im Raum Heilbronn mit Hilfe eines Geographischen Informationssystems vorgestellt. Die erstellte Habitateignungskarte erweist sich als gutes Hilfsmittel, um den Habitatverbund einzelner Populationen zu untersuchen und verbesserungsvorschläge zu erarbeiten. Weitere Beispiele aus der angeewandten Forschung zeigen, dass die Qualität und Aussagekraft der (Habitat)Modelle maßgeblich von der Verfügbarkeit hochauflösender, flächwendeckender, für die Zielart relevanten digitaolen Umweltdaten beeinflusst wird. Verschiedene Autoren erarbeiteten zur Verbesserung der Habitatanalysen durch die Einbeziehung von Detailinformationen und höher aufgelösten Daten. Moderne Laserscanner-Daten könnten eine effiziente Lösung darstellen, um einen immensen Aufwand durch die Erhebung von hoch aufgelösten Daten zu vermeiden.
Heckenberger, A. & Laufer, H. (2011) -
Hedeen, S.E. (1984) -
Hedeen, S.E. & Hedeen, D.L. (1999) -
Hedeen, S.F. (1988) -
Hedman, H.D. & Kapsalas, G. & Karameta, E. & Psonis, N. & Poulakakis, N. & Foufopoulos, J. & Pafilis, P. (2017) -
Hegener, K. (1933) -
Hegner, D. (1994) -
Heidari, N. (2019) -
Acanthodactylus micropholis Heidari, Rastegar-Pouyani, Rastegar-Pouyani & Rajabizadeh, 2013 and A. khamiren¬sis Blanford, 1874 are genetically and morphologically distinct, but their ecological differentiation has not previously been evaluated. The ecological niche models of these two sister species Acanthodactylus were reconstructed using climate and geographical data. Species distribution modeling for A. micropholis and A. khamirensis was used to make predictions and showed that most parts of southern and southeastern Iran are suitable for the distribution of both species. Habitat suitability was mostly dependent upon minimum temperature of the coldest month and seasonal precipitation for A. micropholis and A. khamirensis, respectively. Niche similarity tests (niche overlap and identity tests) were performed to evaluate species dif-ferentiation based on the ecological species criterion. Our results indicate that both species have different ecological niches and are significantly separated from each other. Therefore, our study corroborates previous analyses based on molecular and morphological evidences that suggested that A. micropholis and A. khamirensis were valid species.
Heidari, N. (2020) -
Ecological niche modeling (ENM) is one way to achieve niche differentiation. In the present study, habitat suitability of Lacerta media Lantz & Cyrén, 1920 and Lacerta strigata Eichwald, 1831 was evaluated and the ecological niche spaces were evaluated between the two species. Based on the maximum entropy (MaxEnt) result, northwestern and western Iran has been predicted as the most suitable for L. media and the southern Caspian Sea region has been predicted as suitable for L. strigata presence. Also there are several records of L. strigata presence in East Azarbaijan and Fars provinces and L. media presence in Alborz, Markazi and Esfahan provinces that are currently situated outside the suitable predicted region. Maximum temperature of the coldest month and precipitation of the warmest quarter with contribution more than 68% and 76% for L. media and L. strigata, respectively, were distinguished as the key contributing factors for the presence of both species. However, ecological niche overlap was calculated between the two species and that the niches were significantly different.
Heidari, N. (2021) -
Finger length ratios are organized during embryonic development of fingers as they exposed to sex steroid hormones, and may show varying degrees of sexual dimorphism between males and females in different animal groups. Among all the finger length ratios calculated in a sample, the ratio between the second to fourth fingers (2D: 4D) is the most important one. In this study, the 2D:4D ratios in both sides of the body (right and left) in all limbs were investigated to determine if sexual dimorphism is present in the 2D: 4D ratios in 44 specimens studied (20 males and 24 females) of Acanthodactylus blanfordi. Other morphological traits of the two sexes were also examined (23 metric and meristic traits), as a result, sexual dimorphism was observed in five metric and meristic morphological traits. In terms of the ratio of the size of the fingers and toes, sexual dimorphism in the length of the fingers was observed only in 2D: 4D on the right side of the body in forelimbs and hindlimbs. The value of this trait was higher in males than females and this difference was statistically significant P ≤0.05).
Heidari, N. & Faiti, H. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2012) -
A new record of Acanthodactylus cantoris from Sistan and Baluchistan in southeastern Iran is presented in this paper, and this lizard is found occurring in the coastal area of the Persian Gulf from Govater to Chabahar. This species is mainly sympatric with A. blanfordi, and their habits and habitats support their close relationship within the cantoris group. In total, 29 specimens of A. cantoris (n = 12) and A. blanfordi (n = 17) were compared morphologically using statistical methods. The occurrence of A. cantoris in Iran has been questioned for a long time by different herpetologists, and the distribution, ecology and taxonomy of this newly recorded species were investigated and provided in this paper. An updated identification key for the species of Acanthodactylus in Iran is given.
Heidari, N. & Faizi, H. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2012) -
Detailed investigations carried out on a population of Acanthodactylus blanfordi Boulenger, 1918, from Hormozgan Province, southern Iran, to clarify the presence of sexual dimorphism and determine clear-cut characters for distinguishing the two sexes showed that sexual dimorphism is significant (P<0.05) in some metric and pholidosis characters. Males have relatively longer snout-vent length and tail length than females. The results can be explained by intrasexual selection as well as by the fecundity advantage hypothesis. Differences in colour pattern and colouration between the two sexes are not obvious.
Heidari, N. & Kami, H.G. (2009) -
We report observations on the natural history of lizards in the Gando Protected Area, within the Sistan and Baluchestan Province, Iran. The identity of the lizards is recorded, along with remarks on some meristic characteristics. Brief descriptions of their habitats are also given with a distribution map. Lizards (n = 132) were collected and photographed in 2008-09. Twelve species belonging to 9 genera and five families were found: Agamidae: Laudakia melanura lirata, Trapelus agilis, Laudakia fusca; Gekkonidae: Bunopus tuberculatus, Cyrtopodion scabrum, Hemidactylus persicus, Hemidactylus flaviviridis; Lacertidae: Mesalina brevirostris, Mesalina watsonana, Acanthodactylus blanfordi; Scincidae: Eumeces schneiderii zarudnyi; Varanidae: Varanus griseus caspius. This is the first record of Mesalina brevirostris in southeastern Iran.
Heidari, N. & Rastegar Pouyani, N. & Rastegar Pouyani, E. & Rajabizadeh, M. (2013) -
A new and distinctive species of lacertid genus Acanthodactylus Fitzinger, 1834 is described from 7 km east of Khamir Port, Hormozgan Province, southern Iran at an elevation of 30–40m above sea level (asl). Analyses of morphological characters and the comparison with other formerly known species of this genus have proven the status of this taxon as a new,distinct species. Combinations of scalation characters and distinct morphology, coloration and habitat peculiarities in calcareous mountains distinguish Acanthodactylus khamirensis sp.nov from all remaining species of the genus in the area. In order to show the validity of the new species, we carried out a comparative statistical analysis using 13 metric and six meristic morphological characters on all of the neighboring congeners of the new species using descriptive (one-way ANOVA) as well as multivariate analyses (PCA and DFA). The results confirm the specific status of the new taxon. Detailed information and an updated identification key for the genus Acanthodactylus in Iran are presented.
Heidari, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Faizi, H. (2014) -
Phylogenetic relationships of Iranian Acanthodactylus species were investigated using 1407 bp of mitochondrial DNA in-cluding 606 bp of cytochrome b and 801 bp of NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4 (ND4). Analyses done with maximum parsimony, maximum-likelihood, and Bayesian inference included 67 specimens from 27 geographically distinct locali-ties in Iran. Our molecular results proposed three clear and geographically isolated clades by their phylogenetic positions and genetic differences. These three major clades are: (1) A. micropholis+ A. grandis+ A. khamirensis; (2) A. blanfordi+ A. schmidti+ Acanthodactylus sp1; (3) A. nilsoni+ A. boskianus + Acanthodactylus sp2. The phylogenetic analyses of the genus did not group A. grandis with the remaining species of the A. boskianus group and clustered it along with A. khami-rensis within the A. micropholis group. In addition, phylogenetic results revealed a monophyletic status for A. schmidti and A. micropholis groups. Molecular clock approach indicated that the most recent divergence event splits A. micropholis from A. khamirensis about 2 MYA and results of dispersal-vicariance analyses showed that this diversification occurred by dispersal event rather than vicariance. Results of Reconstruct Ancestral State in Phylogenies (RASP) showed that Most Recent Common Ancestor (MRCA) of A. micropholis, A. blanfordi and A. sp1 originated in eastern Iran. The first diver-sification of the genus in Iran most likely occurred between 8.5–9 MYA corresponding with the hypothesis that the genus has entered Iran long after the complete uplifting of the Zagros Mts. (10–12 MYA) which limited its dispersal only to the Persian Gulf shores and western slopes of the Zagros Mts.
Heilig, C. (2008) -
Die Ergebnisse verschiedener Untersuchungen zu Ruineneidechsen (Podarcis sicula) aus der Familie der Echten Eidechsen (Lacertidae) werden diskutiert. Bei dieser Eidechsenart sollen erhebliche mikroevolutive* und sogar makroevolutive* Veränderungen in einem Zeitraum von nur 36 Jahren entstanden sein. Während die Veränderungen im Bau der Gliedmaßen und des Schädels (und der daraus resultierenden Beißkraft) lediglich rapid ablaufende Mikroevolutionsprozesse (Variation) belegen, soll auch eine innerhalb von nur etwa 30 Generationen angeblich neu entstandene Struktur im Verdauungstrakt der Eidechsen ebenfalls auf Anpassung zurückgeführt werden und durch ungerichtete Prozesse hervorgebracht worden sein. Dabei handelt es sich um sogenannte „Cecal Valves“ – Blinddarmklappen, die den Verdauungsvorgang verlangsamen und bei schwerverdaulicher pflanzlicher Nahrung von Vorteil sind. Diese Struktur wird von den Autoren als makroevolutive Neuerung (Konstruktion) ausgegeben, in den Medien als solche gefeiert und in mehreren Kommentaren von Biologen auch als Argument gegen das Schöpfungsparadigma vorgebracht. Die Einordnung als makroevolutive Neuerung ist jedoch bei weitem nicht so schlüssig, wie es auf den ersten Blick scheinen mag. So ist durchaus denkbar, dass die Klappen-Struktur lediglich eine mikroevolutive (mutative) Veränderung bereits bestehender Strukturen darstellt, selbst wenn ihre genetische Grundlage in der besagten Population de novo entstanden sein sollte. Falls die Forscher Recht behalten sollten und die erstmalige Entstehung der notwendigen genetischen Information tatsächlich Makroevolution wäre, kann dennoch eine alternative Deutung der Daten vertreten werden: Die betreffende Struktur könnte eine mikroevolutive Ausprägung eines von Anfang an bestehenden Potentials einer polyvalenten* Stammform der untersuchten Population von P. sicula sein.
Heilingbrunner, F. (1967) -
Heimes, P. (1993) -
Die Verbreitung der Reptilien im westlichen Taunus (Rheingau- Taunus-Kreis und Stadt Wiesbaden) wurde zwischen 1986 und 1991 kartiert. Die Artenliste umfaßt die fünf in Mitteleuropa am weitesten verbreiteten Reptilien: Blindschleiche, Zauneidechse, Waldeidechse, Schlingnatter und Ringelnatter sowie zwei Arten mit mediterranem Verbreitungsschwerpunkt, die Mauereidechse und die Äskulapnatter.
Hein, N., (2012) -
Heine, S. (2014) -
Heinemann, J. (1937) -
Heisch, R.B. (1958) -
Heklau, M. (2010) -
Brief description of a female Podarcis pityusenis pityusensis with a forked tail regeneration.
Helfenberger, N. & Bendel, P. (1994) -
Hellbernd, L. (2013) -
Hellmich, W. (1957) -
Hellmich, W. (1959) -
Hellmich, W. (1969) -
Helm, R. (1899) -
Helmdag, A. (1991) -
Helmdag, A. (1992) -
Helmdag, A. (1993) -
Helmdag, A. (1994) -
Fighting against mite-infestion by means of a perimethrin-containing spray. Bigger growing lizards (Gallotia galloti, G. stehlini, Lacerta lepida) survived a treatment without any problem whereas smaller lizards (Latastia longicaudata, Platysaurus intermedius) showed obvious signs of intoxination and died.
Helmdag, A. (1995) -
Report on subrecent osteological material of Gallotia stehlini in the collections of two ethnographic museurns and in the field near Santa Lucia on Grau Canaria island.
Helmdag, A. (1999) -
Helmdag, A. (2000) -
Helmer, W. & Strijbosch, H. & Scholte, P. (1988) -
Helmich, W. (1935) -
Heltai, B. & Sály, P. & Kovács, D. & Kiss, I. (2015) -
Different types of semi natural habitats has important role in long-term survival and maintenance of reptile species in urban environments. Heterogeneous urban green islands can provide conditions that enable competing species to live together in relatively small areas. However, the key mechanism of coexistence could vary from types of habitats and taxa. We investigated the population structure, the fine scale habitat segregation and diel activity pattern of two lizard species ( Lacerta viridis and L. agilis) coexisting populations in a town cemetery. We hypothesized, that fine scale habitat segregation is a more important factor in coexistence than differences in diel activity pattern, because of the environmental dependent thermoregulation constrain. During the study, 178 L. agilis and 79 L. viridis occurrences were recorded. The daily activity patterns of both species were very similar, with peaks found in the forenoon and afternoon. Lizards were found to be the most active at 31-32°C. The probability of occurrence of the species was influenced more by the differences in the random selection of parcels rather than the random differences in the survey days. Around the proximate observation point the bush covered areas was significantly higher than average in the parcels. Our results showed that niche segregation based on fine scale habitat patches had a fundamental role in the coexistence of the two lizard species. L. agilis preferred the more open spaces, whereas L. viridis preferred areas with more bushes, but there was no difference in the daily activity pattern of the two species.
Hemmerling, J. & Meusel, W. & Obst, F.J. (1974) -
This publication on the herpetofauna oft he Caucasus is a compilation oft wo articles published in 1967 and 1970 (Zool. Abh. SStaatl. Mus. Tierk. Dresden 29, pp. 85-93 and Aquarien terrarien 17, pp. 120-123.
Henderickx, F. (1987) -
Henf, M. (1990) -
Henf, M. (2001) -
Henf, M. & Alfermann, D. (2004) -
Das Vorkommen der Smaragdeidechse in der Nähe von Runkel im hessischen Teil des Lahntals wird beschrieben. Es bleibt zu klären, ob es sich hierbei tatsächlich um Tiere der Westlichen Smaragdeidechse handelt. Selbst bei eindeutiger Bestätigung einer Population von Lacerta bilineata bleibt offen, ob es sich eindeutig um autochthone Tiere handelt. Faktoren, die für ein autochthones Vorkommen sprechen, werden aufgeführt
Henjes, H. (2020) -
Henkens, R.J.H.G. & Ottburg, F.G.W.A. & Sluis, T. van der & Kloc, C. (1963) -
Henle, K. (1980) -
Henle, K. (1983) -
A remarkable hindleg regeneration was observed in a Sharp-snouted Rock Lizard (La- certa oxycephala). The hindleg was replaced by a scaled elongate and conical appendage. The moving lizard kept the regenerate motionless. The specimen apparently was able to catch enough food in nature. Comparable regenerations were found in Caucasian Rock Lizards, in two L. saxicola brauneri and in one L. raddei raddei. Always a hindleg was rege- nerated.
Henle, K. (1984) -
Henle, K. (1985) -
In 1981/2 during five journeys to Yugoslavia distributional, ecological and systematic data were collected for the following species, mainly in the coastal area: Salamandra salamandra, Triturus cristatus, T. vulgaris, Bombina variegata, Bufo bufo , B. viridis, Hyla arborea, Rana dalmatina, R. latastei, R. ridibunda, Emys orbicularis , Testudo hermanni, Anguis fragilis, Ophisaurus apodus, Lacerta oxycephala , L. trilineata, L. viridis, Podarcis melisellensis, P. muralis , P. sicula, Coluber viridiflavus, Malpolon monspessulanum, Natrix natrix .
Henle, K. (1988) -
In 1981 and 1982 the population dynamics and ecology of Podarcis sicula campestris was studied in Omis/Dalmatia, Rovin/Istria and on the island Figarola near Rovinj. Spring densities were high in all three populations. A higher percentage of females reach sexual maturity in their first year of life at Omis than on Figarola. Clutch-size is correlated with snout-vent-length at Omis. Mortality on Figarola is about half that of Rovinj or Omis; on Figarola juvenile mortality decreases with age. Prehatching mortalities are high. Distribution and amount of semi-shaded and sunny places, food availability and climate are important for the regulation of density.
Henle, K. (1989) -
Henle, K. (1996) -
Mapping data have been major sources for the documentation of amphibian and reptile declines and of potential threats. Often, all potential threats are taken äs proven actual causes of decline although the presented data analysis is seldom sufficient for such Claims. The potential for causal inferences is limited because of a general lack of rigorous field designs. Nevertheless, the potential of mapping data for such inferences is seldom fully realised. Therefore, comparisons of the relative importance of various potential threats among regions and thus the development of effective conservation strategies are hampered. In this paper, potential methods for causal inferences are briefly outlined. The potential and limits of causal inferences from mapping data are illustrated with an example from an approximately 50 km2 area west of Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. During a 26-years-period of data collecting without a design, 13 and seven species of amphibians and reptiles, respectively, were observed. Two amphibian species (Hyla arborea and Bufo calamita) became extinct, and two species (Triturus cristatus and Rana esculenta/lessonae) declined considerably. A total of 124 populations became extinct including the 54 unsuccessful recolonisation attempts out of a total of 107 observed recolonisations. Analysing the data äs natural field experiments, only 24 % of the extinctions (22 unknown and 8 uncertain causes) remained unexplained in spite of the lack of a rigorous design. Habitat change was the prime factor responsible for declines; e.g., 24 % of the water bodies used for spawning disappeared. Pollution was the second major cause. Many extinctions were due to natural causes, but with the exception of two, they were limited to small and very small populations. Predation by fish caused two losses. No extinction could be attributed to other predators, collecting, competition with exotic species, or road traffic. However, a motor way build before the Start of the mapping project acts äs a barrier to the reinvasion of a partially restored spawning site at which amphibians became extinct due to pollution. Recommendations for planning the collection of mapping data are made to improve their potential for causal inferences on declines.
Henle, K. (1997) -
Henle, K. (1998) -
Henle, K. (2005) -
Henle, K. & Andres, C. & Bernhard, D. & Grimm, A. & Stoev, P. & Tzankov, N. & Schlegel, M. (2016) -
Context: Species show different sensitivity to habitat loss and fragmentation depending on their specialization. Populations of a species at the range margin are generally assumed to be more stenoecious than populations at the core of the distribution and should therefore be more sensitive to habitat fragmentation. Objectives: We evaluated the hypothesis that fragmentation effects species more strongly at the range periphery of their range compared to the core, resulting in lower genetic variability in comparable patch sizes and lower gene flow among populations. Methods: We compared the genetic diversity and structure of five sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) populations at the margin of its range in Bulgaria and of 11 populations at the core of its distribution in Germany. We based the analysis on microsatellites, comprising 15 loci in Bulgaria and 12 in Germany. Results: All diversity indices declined with patch size. For medium-sized patches all diversity indices were lower at the range periphery compared to the core, with two of them being significant. AICc based model selection showed strong support for core/periphery and patch size effects for observed and expected heterozygosity but only a patch size effect for allelic richness. There was no isolation-by-distance and each sampled population was allocated to a separate cluster with high probability for both countries, indicating that all populations are (almost) completely isolated. Conclusion: Our study indicates an increased sensitivity of a species to fragmentation at the periphery compared to the core of its distribution. This differential sensitivity should be accounted for when prioritizing species based on their fragmentation sensitivity in landscape management.
Henle, K. & Bender, C. & Kubach, G. (1990) -
Henle, K. & Dick, D. & Harpke, A. & Kühn, I. & Schweiger, O. & Settele, J. (2008) -
Henle, K. & Fritz, K. (2007) -
Henle, K. & Hüttner, M.-L. & Kasperidus, H.D. & Krämer, J. & Rösler, M. & Bartelt, S. & Brümmer, A. & Clauß, B. & Clauß, J. & Délétroz, C. & Sattler, C. & Rumiantceva, N. & Scherfose, V. (2024) -
Streuobstwiesen gehören in ihren unterschiedlichen Anbauformen zu den prägenden Elementen der mitteleuropäischen Kulturlandschaften. Als Folge der Technisierung und Intensivierung der Landwirtschaft im 20. Jahrhundert, dem Bauwesen, internationaler und ab der zweiten Hälfte des 20. Jahrhunderts auch nationaler Konkurrenz durch den niederstämmigen Plan-tagenobstbau, entsprechend ausgerichteter Agrarpolitik sowie verändertem Verbraucher- und Freizeitverhalten der Menschen wurden Streuobstwiesen zunehmend unwirtschaftlich und gerodet. Die verbleibenden Bestände wurden schlechter gepflegt. Ziel des Projektes „Streuobstbestände in Deutschland: naturschutzfachliche Bedeutung, Be-standssituation und Handlungserfordernisse“ war es, die aktuelle Situation der Streuobstbe-stände in Deutschland anhand von landes- und bundesweiten Daten übersichtsmäßig zusammenzutragen, mit 12 ausgewählten Modellgebieten zu vergleichen und zu bewerten. Weiterhin sollte eine Empfehlung für eine einheitliche Definition von Streuobstbeständen sowie eine Übersicht über die ökologische und naturschutzfachliche Bedeutung von Streuobstwiesen erarbeitet werden. Gefährdungsanalysen und daraus ableitbare Handlungserfordernisse sollten aus diesen Übersichten, Literaturanalysen und Befragungen abgeleitet werden. Die erarbeitete allgemeine Definition sowie eine Legaldefinition für den gesetzlichen Schutz sollen aus naturschutzfachlicher Sicht Streuobstbestände klar und umfassend definieren. Dazu wurden Definitionen aus der Literatur, den Gesetzestexten und Förderprogrammen der Länder sowie der Streuobst-Vermarktung genutzt. Streuobstflächen bieten viele Ökosystemleistungen an. Ihre primäre Versorgungsleistung in der mitteleuropäischen Kulturlandschaft besteht in der Jahrhunderte alten Bereitstellung von Obst. Das hohe Blühangebot der Streuobstbestände fungiert als indirekte Versorgungsleistung für die Honigherstellung und trägt zur Artenvielfalt der Streuobstbestände bei. Streuobstbe-stände weisen eine signifikant geringere Nährstoffauswaschung auf als von Äckern dominierte Landschaften und haben eine positive Wirkung auf den Wasserhaushalt. Sie sind attraktive Landschaften für Naherholung und Tourismus. Streuobstbestände gehören zu den arten- und sortenreichsten Kulturlandschaften und damit zu den Hot Spots der Biodiversität Europas nördlich der Alpen. Für Deutschland wird der Artenreichtum auf über 5000 Arten (ohne Pilzarten) geschätzt. Alleine in Sachsen-Anhalt wurden auf zehn Streuobstwiesen aktuell 3623 Arten nachgewiesen, davon auch 359 gefährdete Arten, in Rheinland-Pfalz schon vor rund 30 Jahren 2378 Arten in vier Streuobstgebieten. Das hohe Alter der Hochstamm-Obstbäume mit Totholz, Rindenstrukturen und Höhlenangeboten sowie das Blütenangebot des oft extensiv genutzten Grünlands ermöglichen diesen Artenreichtum. Auch die Größe der Streuobstwiesen und ihre Isolation beeinflussen die Artenzahl und/oder die Abundanz einzelner Arten. Ebenso wirkt sich die Landschaftsstruktur der Umgebung und die Art und Intensität der Unternutzung auf die Artenvielfalt aus. Dabei reagieren unterschiedliche Artengruppen und auch Arten innerhalb von Gruppen zum Teil gegensätzlich auf die genannten Faktoren, so dass wir ein heterogenes Management empfehlen, das sich an den Zielarten einer bestimmten Region orientiert. Sämtliche Artengruppen, die bisher in Streuobstflächen untersucht wurden, werden kurz besprochen. Arten, die besonders stark auf Streuobstwiesen angewiesen sind, stehen dabei im Fokus.Die Auswertung der deutschlandweiten Datensätze der Digitalen Landschaftsmodelle (DLM) und des Digitalen Landbedeckungsmodells für Deutschland (LBM) ergab erhebliche Unterschiede in den Streuobstbeständen zwischen den beiden Datensätzen. Außerdem wurden in einem von uns kartierten Modellgebiet (Rutesheim) viele Abweichungen der DLM- und LBM-Daten von den realen Verhältnissen entdeckt. Verlässliche Schätzungen der Gesamtfläche von Streuobstbeständen in Deutschland waren daher auf deren Basis nicht möglich. Die anhand der Stichprobenflächen des HNV-Farmland-Monitoring auf ganz Deutschland extrapolierte Fläche liegt in ähnlicher Höhe wie die der DLM- und LBM-Daten, beziehen sich im Gegensatz zu den DLM- und LBM-Daten aber nur auf die Agrarlandschaft. Zwar liegen deutschlandweit relativ viele historische Erfassungen von Obstbäumen und Streuobstflächen vor, die mehr als 100 Jahre zurückreichen, allerdings sind diese für quantitative Trendanalysen aufgrund wechselnder Methodik nur sehr eingeschränkt geeignet. Lokale Untersuchungen implizieren einen leichten bis meistens sehr starken Rückgang von Streuobstbeständen seit den 1950er Jahren. Der qualitative Zustand wurde in den Modellgebieten generell als unzureichend eingeschätzt. Literaturanalysen und Befragungen zu den Hauptgefährdungen jenseits von Agrarpolitik und sonstigen politischen Rahmenbedingungen, Verbraucherverhalten sowie Freizeitverhalten identifizierten fehlende Pflege, Änderung der Flächennutzung (inklusive Überbauung und intensiv genutzte Freizeitgrundstücke), Klimaveränderungen und Krankheiten als die wichtigsten Gefährdungen. Außerdem stellt die fehlende betriebswirtschaftliche Rentabilität einen Hauptgrund für die Aufgabe von Streuobstbeständen dar. Aus den Analysen zum Status von Streuobstbeständen, deren ökologischer und naturschutz-fachlicher Bedeutung und den Gefährdungen leitet sich umfangreicher Handlungsbedarf ab. Grundsätzlich braucht es für den Erhalt der Streuobstbestände in Deutschland und Europa einen umfassenden Ansatz. Dies bedeutet, dass man sowohl ökologische (Vielfalt, inklusive Obstsorten) als auch ökonomische (faire Preise und Kostenkalkulation) und soziale Aspekte (Kultur und regionale Tradition) bei allen Handlungen für die Förderung des Streuobstbaus bedenkt und die vielen natürlichen Synergien innerhalb des Streuobstbaus aktiv miteinbe-zieht. Wir beschreiben politisch-administrative Ansätze zur Stärkung des Streuobstbaus für die EU und auf nationaler Ebene und geben Empfehlungen zur wirtschaftlichen Stärkung des Streuobstbaus, für die Erhaltung und Neuschaffung von Beständen sowie für die regionale und kostendeckende Verwertung und Vermarktung von Streuobst. Wichtig ist hierbei insbesondere auch der Begriffsschutz für Streuobst. Schließlich geben wir Empfehlungen für die Öffentlichkeitsarbeit, für Aus- und Weiterbildung und leiten den Forschungsbedarf ab.
Henle, K. & Klaver, C.J.J. (1986) -
Henle, K. & Steinicke, H. & Gruttke, H. (2004) -
Hennecke, W. (1905) -
Hennemann, W. (1909) -
Hennig, S. (2024) -
Henninger, N. (2002) -
Henninger, N. (2007) -
Henschel, J. & Klintenberg, P. & Roberts, C. & Seely, M. (2007) -
Long-term ecological research (LTER) is invaluable for understanding environmental processes, particularly variability and drought, in arid countries and as support for effective natural resource management in the drylands. The Gobabeb Training and Research Centre undertakes various long-term monitoring focused on, inter alia, climate and the biophysical environment. Examples are given of the results of this LTER and how they could be used to serve social and environmental functions in the drylands.
Henshaw, R.E. (1998) -
Hepp, A. (2021) -
Short note on a subadult Podarcis melisellensis fiumanus feeding on a red-winged grasshopper on the Croatian island of Lošinj.
Herczeg, G. (2011) -
Herczeg, G. & Herrero, A. & Saarikivi, J. & Gonda, A. & Jäntti, M. & Merilä, J. (2008) -
Huey and Slatkin’s (Q Rev Biol 51:363–384, 1976) cost–benefit model of lizard thermoregulation predicts variation in thermoregulatory strategies (from active thermoregulation to thermoconformity) with respect to the costs and benefits of the thermoregulatory behaviour and the thermal quality of the environment. Although this framework has been widely employed in correlative field studies, experimental tests aiming to evaluate the model are scarce. We conducted laboratory experiments to see whether the common lizard Zootoca vivipara, an active and effective thermoregulator in the field, can alter its thermoregulatory behaviour in response to differences in perceived predation risk and food supply in a constant thermal environment. Predation risk and food supply were represented by chemical cues of a sympatric snake predator and the lizards’ food in the laboratory, respectively. We also compared males and postpartum females, which have different preferred or ‘‘target’’ body temperatures. Both sexes thermoregulated actively in all treatments. We detected sex-specific differences in the way lizards adjusted their accuracy of thermoregulation to the treatments: males were less accurate in the predation treatment, while no such effects were detected in females. Neither sex reacted to the food treatment. With regard to the two main types of thermoregulatory behaviour (activity and microhabitat selection), the treatments had no significant effects. However, postpartum females were more active than males in all treatments. Our results further stress that increasing physiological performance by active thermoregulation has high priority in lizard behaviour, but also shows that lizards can indeed shift their accuracy of thermoregulation in response to costs with possible immediate negative fitness effects (i.e. predation-caused mortality).
Herczeg, G. & Kovács, T. & Hettyey, A. & Merilä, J. (2003) -
The general model of thermoregulation of ectotherms predicts that thermally challenging environments select for evolution of thermoconformity. Studies of reptilian thermoregulation at climatic extremes are rare and, in the subarctic zone, completely lacking. Thermal characteristics of the habitat of the lizard Zootoca vivipara were studied in the subarctic zone, at the northern margin of its distribution, where lizard density was already extremely low. We found that, during the activity period, the preferred body temperatures of Z. vivipara were not available for a thermoconformer, but available for 7 h for a thermoregulator in an average day. Therefore, thermoconformity is unbeneficial and accurate thermoregulation should be the appropriate strategy. We hypothesise that the extremely low lizard abundance at our subarctic study site is caused by the short activity season and the large daily temperature fluctuations, with night temperatures occasionally falling below zero even during the activity period.
Herczeg, G. & Kovács, T. & Korsos, Z. & Török, J. (2007) -
Microhabitat selection and seasonal activity of the snake-eyed skink, Ablephaus kitaibelii fitzingeri, are compared to the two lacertid lizards (Lacerta viridis and Podarcis muralis) that co-occur in many of its habitats. The food composition of A. k. fitzingeri is also described. Significant differences in microhabitat selection and seasonal activity among the three species were found. The snake-eyed skink was associated with open grasslands, and with a low level of scrub, bare soil and rock cover. The microhabitat preference of L. viridis was quite similar to that of the skink, but with a higher preference for scrub. P. muralis occurred in places with greater rock and bare soil cover, and more scrub than A. k. fitzingeri. Activity of the snake-eyed skink decreased dramatically in summer, probably because of the reduced thermal inertia originating from the extremely small size of this species, but its seasonal activity overlapped with those of the lacertids. Stomach content analysis of the snake-eyed skink suggests that it is a generalist predator of small, mainly flightless arthropod prey. Competition with juvenile lacertids and predation by adult L. viridis are conceivable for the snake-eyed skink.
Herczeg, G. & Kovács, T. & Tóth, T. & Török, J. & Korsós, Z. & Merilä, J. (2004) -
Tail autotomy in lizards is an adaptive strategy that has evolved to reduce the risk of predation. Since tail loss reduces body mass and moving ability—which in turn are expected to influence thermal balance—there is potential for a trade-off between tail autotomy and thermoregulation. To test this hypothesis, we studied a common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) population at high latitude, inhabiting a high-cost thermal environment. Z. vivipara is a small, non-territorial lizard known as a very accurate thermoregulator. We made two predictions: (1) the reduced body weight due to tail loss results in faster heating rate (a benefit), and (2) the reduction in locomotor ability after tail loss induces a shift to the use of thermally poorer microhabitats (a cost), thus decreasing the field body temperatures of active lizards. We did not find any effect of tail loss on heating rate in laboratory experiments conducted under different thermal conditions. Likewise, no significant relationship between tail condition and field body temperatures, or between tail condition and thermal microhabitat use, were detected. Thus, our results suggest that tail autotomy does not influence the accuracy of thermoregulation in small-bodied lizards
Herczeg, G. & Török, J. & Korsós, Z. (2007) -
The rate of heat exchange with the environment is of obvious importance in determining the time budget of behavioural thermoregulation in ectotherms. In small reptiles, heating rate depends mainly on their physical characteristics. We analysed the effect of body size, and the possible joint effects originating from shape and colour differences on heating rate in three small-bodied (0.15-20 g) sympatric lizard species. Heating rate was strongly influenced by body size, while no joint effects with the two other factors were detected. We found that the increase in heating rate with decreasing body size accelerated dramatically below a body weight of 2-3 g. We also analysed associations between body size, seasonal activity patterns and thermal characteristics of the sites where lizards were encountered in the field. Differently sized lizards occurred in thermally different sites and differed in their seasonal activity patterns, both within and among species. Smaller (<2-3 g) lizards occurred in cooler sites and exhibited very low activity during summer. Our results suggest that body size has a considerable influence on the spatial and temporal distribution of extremely small lizards in environments subject to a danger of overheating.
Herder, J. & Heuvel, W.van den (2019) -
Hering-Hagenbeck, S.B.F.N. (1998) -
Herkt, M. (2007) -
Predictive species distribution modelling is a valuable tool for decision-makers in biodiversity conservation, invasive species monitoring and other natural resource management fields. This study employs one recently proposed modelling technique – Maxent – to investigate the curious geographic distribution pattern of Erhard’s wall lizard Podarcis erhardii on Crete and surrounding islets. The main objective is to find out if this distribution can be explained using a set of environmental variables only. A secondary objective is to test the usefulness of an ASTER-derived land cover variable. Thirdly, the effect of replacing the single point occurrence data with representative ‘natural habitat’ polygons created during fieldwork in the immediate vicinity based on expert knowledge is investigated. A set of 19 environmental predictors is employed together with 75 presence-only records, obtained from the National History Museum of Crete. Results are evaluated using the threshold-dependent True Skills Statistic (TSS), a binomial test and the threshold-independent ROC analysis with AUC. Relative variable importance is assessed based on Maxent’s built-in Jacknife functionality. Multi-annual NDVI is found to be the most important predictor, matching not only areas with high presence but also areas of apparent absence of P. erhardii. While the climate variables cloud cover and actual evapotranspiration rank next, the ground variables altitude and CORINE land cover also contribute significantly to the overall ‘cumulative gain’ of 1.86. The resulting distribution fits the provided occurrence data very well (AUC of test partition = 0.86) and results are highly significant at the sensitivity-specificity-equality threshold (p < 0.001). Western Crete serves as subset for testing the usefulness of ASTER imagery for the purposes of this study at regional scale. The ASTER-derived land cover variable is found to contribute as much unique information to the distribution as NDVI, ranks second in individual ‘cumulative gain’ and increases the overall ‘cumulative gain by over 20%. The replacement of single occurrence points with more representative plot data increases the ‘cumulative gain’ by an additional almost 20%, primarily because this allows to better exploit the discriminative power of continuous climatic variables with 1x1km resolution. The study concludes with the observation that present environmental conditions alone may ‘explain’ the observed curious geographic distribution of P. erhardii on Crete. Furthermore, it recommends the use of ASTER imagery for similar studies, because overlay analysis reveals not only a fairly strong association between ASTER, NDVI and CORINE classes preferred by P. erhardii, but also a much more concise identification.
Hermans, J.T. (1992) -
Hermans, J.T. (2009) -
Hermida Lorenzo, R.X. & Lamas Antón, F.X. (2006) -
Hermyt, M. & Rupik, W. (2016) -
Hernández Casado, P. & Martín Higuera, A. & Martínez-Mugueta Sanz, J. (2023) -
The ability to preserve reptile communities inside urban contexts becomes increasingly crucial as urban areas continue to grow and displace natural and agricultural landscapes. To carry out decisionmaking procedures and conservation measures on the ground, we must first understand species` reactions to habitat features at the local level. Six artificial hibernacula have been built in two periurban parks in the city of Tres Cantos as a result of a local conservation and awarenessraising project. Alongside these structures, 23 circular sectors with a radius of 75 meters have been designated between the two parks, and visual transects have been conducted for 15 minutes over a full year, grouped into two samplings in spring and one in autumn. Psammodromus algirus and Zamenis scalaris were the main reptile species studied for these values of richness and abundance. These values have been linked to environmental factors such as vegetation cover, the distance between environments or points of interest, and human disturbance. The discovery of 7 of the 13 reptile species included in the grid demonstrates the potential for periurban regions to support reptile ecosystems. The number of species was associated with the presence of nonvegetal refuge (rocks, rubble, etc.) and the presence of vegetal refuge, being more relevant in those sectors with a higher proportion of 2050 cm vegetation stratum and decreasing in grassland areas. Similarly, the abundance of P. algirus was strongly associated with these tree strata and avoided open spaces, influenced by strong antipredator behavior. The data collected has been used to create a system that scores the suitability of various sectors for hosting reptiles. Additionally, a plan for conservation and monitoring measures has been developed to improve the local project for herpetofauna shelters and adjust policies for managing urban green areas, especially those linked to mowing activities.
Hernández-Acosta, C.N. & Bisbal-Chinnesta, J.F. & Betancort-Lozano, J.F. (2017) -
Desde el principio del Cuaternario, la fauna de las Islas Canarias se ha caracterizado por la presencia de grandes lagartos. Todos estos lagartos se han incluido dentro del género Gallotia, y son endemismos insulares de los que se han descrito tanto especies como subespecies en islas e islotes. Desde el Pleistoceno hasta el Holoceno se han hallado fósiles y subfósiles, y algunas de estas formas, ya extintas, presentaban tallas muy superiores a las actuales. En el presente trabajo se pretende dar a conocer de forma preliminar las variedades de lagartos gigantes identificadas en las Islas Canarias.
Hernández-Agüero, J.A. & Megia-Palma, R. (2020) -
Hernandez-Agüero, J.A. & Plasencia, S. (2016) -
Hernández-Sastre, P.L. & Ayllón, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2009) -
Hernández, A. (1990) -
Hernández, A. (1992) -
Hernández, A. & Alegre, J. & Salgado, J.M. (1991) -
The diet of Lacerta lepida in the province of León (NW Spain) was studied through the analysis of 286 faecal pellets collected during May-August. Insecta were the numerically most important prey group, and always represented more than 85 % of prey numbers. Coleoptera and Hymenoptera were the dominant orders. Other important prey groups were Heteroptera and Arachnida. The number of Orthoptera consumed increased gradually from May to August. With respect to the occurrence frequency of prey in the faecal pellets, Coleoptera and Hymenoptera occurred in more than 75% at all times. The lowest trophic diversity was detected in june-july. Seasonal changes in the diet were noteworthy within short-terms and augmented in the long-term. The average length of the invertebrate prey was within the interval 9-14 mm. In terms of energy content, Vertebrata (43.82%), Coleoptera (15.77%), Orthoptera (14.40%) and Hymenoptera (13.95%) were the principal groups. L. lepida is considered to be an opportunistic feeder, although some prey groups are apparently selected.
Hernández, E. & Bischoff, W. & Bannert, B. & Siverio, M. (1997) -
In June of 1996 the senior author discovered a new form of lizard in the Teno Massif, the westernmost part of Tenerife Island, which is very similar to the Giant lizard of El Hierro (Gallotia simonyi). The new lizard differs from the latter by its smaller size, morphological characters, and its very different pattern of coloration. To the present, only G. galloti, a smaller sized lizard, which is widely distributed on Tenerife, was known from this island. In this article, the recently discovered lizards and their habitat are briefly presented. Furthermore, the present knowledge of the status of the population and problems concerning the endangerment of these extremely rare reptiles are discussed.
Hernández, E. & Nogales, M. & Aurelio, M. (2000) -
We describe a new species of Gallotia from Tenerife (Canary Islands). This lizard is intermediate in size between the two smaller (G. atlantica and G. galloti) and the two larger (G. simonyi and G. stehlini) species. Furthermore, it differs from the two similar larger Gallotia in the number of supratemporal scales (mode 4 instead of mode 2), usually 16 longitudinal ventral scale rows, and having distinctive dorsal yellow spots, and small lateral yellow or blue spots. Individuals from a small population located in La Hábiga show a pale gray reticulation on dorsum and absence of ocelli in the lateral region. Univariate and multivariate analyses of nine meristic variables of each extant species within the genus Gallotia revealed significant variation. Principal component analyses support the existence of three main morphological closters within the genus, the new lizard being nearest to G. simonyi and G. stehlini. Molecular data from mtDNA sequences (cytechrome b and 12S ribosomal RNA) indicate that G. intermedius is closely related to G. simonyi.
Hernández, M. (2019) -
Hernández, M. & Maca-Meyer, N. & Rando, J.C. & Valido, A. & Nogales, M. (2001) -
Herpetologia behatokia (2008) -
Herpetological Conservation Trust (2009) -
Herrando-Pérez, S. & Belliure, J. & Ferri-Yànez, F. & Burg, M.P. van den & Beukema, W. & Araújo, M.B. & Terblanche, J.S. & Vieites, D.R. (2020) -
Quantifying intraspecific variation in heat tolerance is critical to understand how species respond to climate change. In a previous study, we recorded variability in critical thermal maxima (CTmax) by 3 C among populations of small Iberian lizard species, which could substantially influence predictions of climate-driven activity restriction. Here, we undertake experiments to examine whether we could reproduce similar levels of heat-tolerance variability in response to water deficit. We hypothesized that deprivation of drinking water should increase variability in CTmax between populations more than deprivation of food under the theoretical expectation that the variation of the more limiting resource must trigger stronger variation in physiological performance. We measured CTmax after manipulating availability of live prey and drinking water in two populations of an arid and a mesic lizard species from the Iberian Peninsula. We quantified a mean CTmax across all studied lizards of 44.2 C ± 0.2 SE for the arid species and 41.7 C ± 0.3 SE for the mesic species. Using multimodel inference, we found that water deprivation (combined with food supply) caused population differences in CTmax by 3 to 4 C which were two to three times wider than population differences due to food deprivation (combined with water supply) or to food and water provision. To highlight the need for more thermo-hydroregulatory research, we examined bias in research effort towards thermal versus hydric environmental effects on heat tolerance through a systematic literature review. We show that environmental temperature has been used five times more frequently than precipitation in ecological studies of heat tolerance of terrestrial species. Studies linking thermal tolerance of ectotherms to the interplay of air temperature and water availability are needed in the face of projected increases in aridity and drought in the 21st century, because the balance of body temperature and water resources are functionally interlinked.
Herrando-Pérez, S. & Ferri-Yáñez, F. & Monasterio, C. & Beukema, W. & Gomes, V. & Belliure, J. & Chown, S.L. & Vieites, D.R. & Araújo, M.B. (2019) -
1. Research addressing the effects of global warming on the distribution and persistence of species generally assumes that population variation in thermal tolerance is spatially constant or overridden by interspecific variation. Typically, this rationale is implicit in sourcing one critical thermal maximum (CTmax) population estimate per species to model spatiotemporal cross‐taxa variation in heat tolerance. Theory suggests that such an approach could result in biased or imprecise estimates and forecasts of impact from climate warming, but limited empirical evidence in support of those expectations exists. 2. We experimentally quantify the magnitude of intraspecific variation in CTmax among lizard populations, and the extent to which incorporating such variability can alter estimates of climate impact through a biophysical model. To do so, we measured CTmax from 59 populations of 15 Iberian lizard species (304 individuals). 3. The overall median CTmax across all individuals from all species was 42.8 °C and ranged from 40.5 to 48.3 °C, with species medians decreasing through xeric, climate‐generalist and mesic taxa. We found strong statistical support for intraspecific differentiation in CTmax by up to a median of 3 °C among populations. We show that annual restricted activity (operative temperature > CTmax) over the Iberian distribution of our study species differs by a median of > 80 hours per 25‐km2 grid cell based on different population‐level CTmax estimates. This discrepancy leads to predictions of spatial variation in annual restricted activity to change by more than 20 days for six of the study species. 4. Considering that during restriction periods, reptiles should be unable to feed and reproduce, current projections of climate‐change impacts on the fitness of ectotherm fauna could be under‐ or over‐estimated depending on which population is chosen to represent the physiological spectra of the species in question. Mapping heat tolerance over the full geographical ranges of single species is thus critical to address cross‐taxa patterns and drivers of heat tolerance in a biologically comprehensive way.
Herrando, S. & Vieites, D. & Araújo, M.B. (2014) -
Herrel, A. (2015) -
Herrel, A. & Van Damme, R. & Vanhooydonck, B. & De Vree, F. (2001) -
One of the performance features that is generally considered crucial to increasing the potential prey spectrum of lizards is bite capacity. In this study we tested whether bite forces may serve as a basis for diet selection in two syntopically occurring lacertid lizards. We did so by measuring bite forces in vivo for a large sample of lizards of the species Podarcis muralis and Lacerta vivipara. To assess the ecological relevance of the bite forces, we tested the hardness of a number of natural prey items of both species. The results of our study support the predictions of biomechanical models of biting in lizards and indicate that both larger animals and larger headed ones bite harder. Surprisingly, head shape is an excellent predictor of bite performance in the species studied. Moreover, it is demonstrated that bite capacity is a potentially important ecological variable that could be used as a factor in explaining patterns of food-resource use, ontogenetic dietary shifts, and sexual dimorphism in diet.
Herrel, A. & Huyghe, K. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Backeljau, T. & Breugelmans, K. & Grabac, I. & Van Damme, R. & Irschick, D.J. (2008) -
Although rapid adaptive changes in morphology on ecological time scales are now well documented in natural populations, the effects of such changes on whole-organism performance capacity and the consequences on ecological dynamics at the population level are often unclear. Here we show how lizards have rapidly evolved differences in head morphology, bite strength, and digestive tract structure after experimental introduction into a novel environment. Despite the short time scale (36 years) since this introduction, these changes in morphology and performance parallel those typically documented among species and even families of lizards in both the type and extent of their specialization. Moreover, these changes have occurred side-by-side with dramatic changes in population density and social structure, providing a compelling example of how the invasion of a novel habitat can evolutionarily drive multiple aspects of the phenotype.
Herrel, A. & Spithoven, L. & Van Damme, R. & De Vree, F. (1999) -
Herrel, A. & Taverne, M. & Fabre, A.-C. & Colrnette, R. Tadic, Z. (2016) -
Previous studies have established that cyclical variations in ecological parameters and environment have important consequences on organisms. In temperate regions drastic changes in food availability can often be observed across seasons that are often accentuated on islands. Moreover, aggression and competition for reproductive partners mainly take place during a single season. Bite force is a fitness relevant performance trait that may also show seasonal variation. However, whether these seasonal changes are correlated to changes in the morphology of the underlying muscles and bony structures remains unknown. Here we provide data on seasonal changes in bite force, muscles cross sectional area and cranial shape in lizards of the species P. sicula from a small island in the Adriatic. Both bite force and the mass and cross sectional area of the jaw adductor muscles change seasonally with animals having greater bite forces and muscles in late summer relative to spring. These changes are accompanied by changes in the shape of the cranium and the mandible. As bite forces are greater outside of the reproductive season it is unlikely that these differences are due to sexual selection acting on male competitive ability. However, whether these results represent plastic changes in morphology and function from one season to the next or rather reflect differential survival of animals with greater bite forces remains to be tested.
Herrel, A. & Van Damme, R. & De Vree, F. (1996) -
Sexual dimorphism of relative head size is a widespread phenomenon in lizards, males having larger head/trunk ratios than females. In an attempt to explain this sexual dimorphism several hypotheses have been formulated. The two most frequently cited ones are: 1) sexual selection acting on those structures important in intrasexual competition and 2) natural selection for reduction of food competition between the sexes. In the insular subspecies of Podarcis hispanica (P h. atrata) males tend to have significantly larger heads than similarly sized females. We here test an implicit assumption of the dietary divergence hypothesis, namely that an increase in head size results in an increase in gape width and/or bite force, thereby allowing the larger headed sex to exploit larger prey classes. Using a static bite force model, we calculated the magnitude of bite forces for given directions at given positions on the jaws and for different head sizes. We experimentally determined the hardness of three different prey items and compared the data to the maximal bite force produced by both sexes. Our results suggest an important difference in male and female bite capacity, which may bear significant ecological relevance, and are in agreement with the implicit assumption of the dietary divergence theory.
Herrel, A. & Van Damme, R. & Vree, F. de (1998) -
Herrel, A. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Damme, R. Van (2004) -
Feeding specializations such as herbivory are an often cited example of convergent and adaptive evolution. However, some groups such as lizards appear constrained in the evolution of morphological specializations associated with specialized diets. Here we examine whether the inclusion of plant matter into the diet of omnivorous lacertid lizards has resulted in morphological specializations and whether these specializations reflect biomechanical compromises as expected if omnivores are constrained by functional trade-offs. We examined external head shape, skull shape, tooth structure, intestinal tract length and bite performance as previous studies have suggested correlations between the inclusion of plants into the diet and these traits. Our data show that omnivorous lacertid lizards possess modifications of these traits that allow them to successfully exploit plant material as a food source. Conversely, few indications of a compromise phenotype could be detected, suggesting that the evolution towards herbivory is only mildly constrained by functional tradeoffs.
Herrel, A. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Van Damme, R. & Aerts, P. & Vree, F. de (2001) -
Herrera-Bravo de Laguna, I. & Barahona, F. (1999) -
Herrera, C.M. (2001) -
Herrero, L. (2022) -
Herrmann, H.-J. (1988) -
Herrmann, H.-J. & Kabisch, K. (1990) -
Herrmann, H.-W. (1998) -
Herrmann, H.-W. & Böhme, W. & Euskirchen, O. & Herrmann, P.A. & Schmitz, A. (2005) -
The reptiles of Mt Nlonako, a mountain at the southeastern edge of the Cameroon mountain range (`Dorsale camerounaise`), were inventoried continually over a six year period from 1998 to 2004. This area encompasses 150 km2 of lowland, submontane and montane rainforest with an elevation up to 1,825 m. Accounts of 89 species are provided based on collected and photo-documented material. This inventory proved Mt Nlonako to be the most species rich single-locality area in reptilian fauna in Africa. With 63 snake species Mt Nlonako exhibits the greatest number of species in Africa and possibly worldwide. Analysis showed the reptilian species composition to be most similar within Cameroon with that of Korup National Park followed by the Dja Faunal Reserve in the south. Relative to the snake composition the Korup NP and the Dimonika region in Congo-Brazzaville show the highest resemblance. In an African context the reptile fauna of Mt Nlonako is characterized by species which occur in both West and Central Africa as opposed to the mountain`s amphibian species which more closely resemble Central African fauna. The high species richness and endemicity is discussed from a paleoclimatic perspective. Conservation status and threats to the reptiles are noted.
Herrmann, H.-W. & Branch, W.R. (2013) -
Namibia is mostly an arid and semi-arid country with a high number of reptile and fewer amphibian species. We review the herpetological literature dealing with Namibian species over the past fifty years, and provide up-to-date amphibian and reptile accounts using a widely accepted taxonomy and nomenclature. We critically discuss species accounts, draw attention to the historical development of species inventories for the country, and indicate species endemism for Namibia and the Namib Desert. In Namibia, the lizard families Gekkonidae, Lacertidae, and Scincidae have undergone adaptive radiations and are species-rich. This also applies to the snake family Psammophiidae. Areas of herpetological research that have received most attention are systematics (with its disciplines faunistics (area inventories), taxonomy, and phylogeny), ecology, and physiology. The former is indicative of early stages of herpetological research such as area inventories and the subsequent analyzes of the collections. The latter two were largely enabled by (1) species highly adapted to life in the hyper-arid Namib Desert, and (2) by the accessibility of these species in the Namib Desert through the infrastructure provided by the Gobabeb Research and Training Center. The majority of the eco-physiological research has focused on three highly psammophilus, diurnal lizard species; Meroles anchietae, M. cuneirostris, and Gerrhosaurus skoogi, whilst diverse geckos form the basis of eco-morphological studies. The concentration of research localities around cities and the Gobabeb Research and Training Center is characteristic for opportunistic research. Geographic centers of herpetological research have been the central Namib Desert (i.e. Gobabeb), and areas around Swakopmund and Windhoek. Extensive parts of Namibia remain barely touched. Herpetological publication frequency has been approximately the same since its beginning in the early 1800`s until the 1970`s. The period between 1986 and 2003 experienced a remarkable increase of publication activity that has slightly subsided around 2004 and picked up again in recent years. Recent conservation related studies investigate the impact of overgrazing with land degradation and water related issues such as canals and hydroelectric dam projects on herpetological communities. In the near future the impact of mining, especially Uranium mining in the Namib Desert, and the effects of climate change with the predicted drying and warming will demand increased attention. Advances in biotechnology with ever-increasing amounts of data and decreasing cost have and will progressively enable advances in traditional disciplines like taxonomy, phylogeny, and systematics. Additionally, these technologies will increasingly empower the newer disciplines of molecular ecology and conservation biology in Namibia. Annotated, updated species checklists highlight Namibian and Namib diversity and endemicity, and also direct researchers to the numerous taxonomic problems that still confound full understanding of the region`s herpetofauna.
Herrmann, P.A. & Herrmann, H.-W. (2003) -
Herz, M. (2014) -
Heselhaus, R. (1981) -
Hesse, E. (1920) -
Hessisches Landesamt für Naturschutz, Umwelt und Geologie (2021) -
Hetzel, W. (1974) -
Hetzel, W. (1975) -
Hetzel, W. (1977) -
Heulin, B. (1983) -
Heulin, B. (1984) -
Heulin, B. (1985) -
A lowland population of Lacerta vivipara was studied near Paimpont, France. Under favorable climatic conditions, the young grow rapidly and approximately 50% of them can breed when they are 1 year old. This particular characteristic has not been found in previously studied populations from more northerly areas or mountain habitats; these individuals never reproduce before 2 years of age. Intraspecific, altitudinal, and latitudinal variations in the age of reproduction are discussed in relation to the direct influence of climatic conditions and the possible involvement of selective pressures.
Heulin, B. (1986) -
Heulin, B. (1987) -
Mean body temperature (TC) of Lacerta vivpara ranges from 26°8 to 32° at Paimpont (France). There is a highly significant correlation between environmental temperatures (TS) and body temperatures (TC). The mean body temperature of pregnant females is lower than that of males and non-pregnant females. Also, the regression line TC = f(TS) calculated for pregnant females is different from those calculated for males and non-pregnant females. The possible relations between pregnancy and body temperature are discussed.
Heulin, B. (1988) -
Heulin, B. (1989) -
Heulin, B. (1990) -
Evolution of viviparity in reptiles has resulted in more or less complete regression of the eggshell membrane. Such a regression has been studied in a lizard, Lacerta vivipara, which has both oviparous and viviparous populations. In oviparous reproduction, eggs laid have parchmentlike eggshells with a mean thickness of 36 μm. These eggshell membranes are composed of fibrils and of calcite, which is distributed over the outer surface and in the interfibrillar matrix. In viviparous reproduction, a transparent eggshell membrane remains between the embryonic and maternal tissues throughout pregnancy. This membrane consists mainly of fibrils and has only minor traces of calcite. Its mean thickness is only 9 μm. Reduction of thickness and of calcification is thought to be an adaptation that allows better respiratory exchanges at the end of pregnancy, when embryos require more oxygen. The author emphasizes that species with bimodality of reproduction (oviparity and viviparity) are of considerable interest in research investigating the evolution of viviparity in reptiles.
Heulin, B. . & Surget-Groba, Y. & Guiler, A. & Guillaume, C.P. & Deunff, J. (1999) -
Heulin, B. & Arrayago, M.J. & Bea, A. (1989) -
Heulin, B. & Arrayago, M.J. & Bea, A. & Braña, F. (1991) -
The lizard Lacerta vivipara has both oviparous and viviparous populations. Experimental crossbreedings (oviparous strain × viviparous strain) in the laboratory have previously allowed us to obtain a hybrid strain. Hybrids have also laid eggs in the laboratory. The aim of the present study was to determine the eggshell characteristics of the hybrid and to compare them with the characteristics previously studied in the oviparous and viviparous strains. The mean thickness of the eggshell is 21 μm for the hybrid, 40 μm for oviparous eggshell, and 9 μm for the viviparous eggshell membrane. Mean dry mass of the eggshell is 3 mg for hybrids, 5 mg for the oviparous strain, and 0.6 mg for the viviparous strain. Ash mass of the eggshell is 0.79 mg for hybrids, 1.05 mg for the oviparous strain, and 0.22 mg for the viviparous strain. Fibrils were observed in both oviparous and hybrids` eggshells and in the viviparous eggshell membrane. The outer surface of the hybrids` eggs presents both places with a calcareous layer (61%) and places where fibrils are not covered with a calcareous layer (39%). These incompletely calcified eggshells are intermediate between the oviparous eggshells (complete calcareous layer) and the regressed eggshell membrane (fibrils with minor traces of calcite) observed during the gestation of the viviparous lizards. This situation is of considerable interest for further experimental studies dealing with physiological and genetic aspects of the evolution of viviparity.
Heulin, B. & Garnier, D. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Deunff, J. (2008) -
The evolution of viviparity in lizards and snakes is always associated with a reduction of the eggshell membrane. There is strong evidence indicating that estradiol is the primary factor involved in seasonal development of the uterine glands in preparation for eggshelling. However, the hypothesis that the thinner eggshells of viviparous species could be the consequence of lower pre-ovulatory levels of circulating estradiol has not been tested. In a previous histological study we showed that the pre-ovulatory growth of the uterine shell glands is significantly more pronounced in oviparous than in viviparous females of the lizard Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara. During the current study we assayed plasma levels of estradiol before and during vitellogenesis and during early gestation. We did not find any significant difference of estradiol concentrations between oviparous and viviparous females. In both reproductive forms the plasma estradiol concentration was significantly higher during late vitellogenesis than during early gestation. Future research should address whether variation in the growth of the uterine shell glands could be predominantly mediated by modification affecting estrogen receptors of the uterus rather than by concentration of the circulating hormone
Heulin, B. & Ghielmi, S. & Vogrin, N. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Guillaume, C.P. (2002) -
Heulin, B. & Guillaume, C.-P. (1989) -
Présentation de données relatives à la localisation géographique et écologique des populations présentant un mode de reproduction ovipare.Les populations échantillonées sont situées dans le sud ouest de la France
Heulin, B. & Guillaume, C.-P. (2012) -
Heulin, B. & Guillaume, C.-P. & Bea, A. & Arrayago, M.J. (1993) -
Heulin, B. & Guillaume, C.-P. & Vogrin, N. & Surget-Groba,Y. & Tadic, Z. (2000) -
Heulin, B. & Osenegg-Leconte K. & Michel, B. (1997) -
Lacerta vivipara is a bimodal reproductive species of lizard with allopatric oviparous (egg-laying) and viviparous (live-bearing) populations. The demography of this species has previously been studied in several viviparous populations but has never been studied in oviparous populations. We present a four-year mark-recapture study, including estimates of survival rates and densities for two oviparous populations in the French Pyrénées. Densities fluctuated between 513 and 709 individuals/ha in the mountain population at Gabas and between 920 and 1830 individuals/ha in the lowland population at Louvie. Survival rates of juveniles from first clutches, subadults, and adults were generally higher at Louvie than at Gabas. These demographic characteristics are very likely responsible for the difference in density. Earlier maturity and higher annual fecundity (due to the ability to lay two clucthes/year) could also account for the higher density observed at Louvie. A comparison of demographic (density, survival) and reproductive (birth dates, maturity, reproductive frequency) characteristics of oviparous and viviparous natural populations reveal that oviparous populations occur under ecological conditions that allow (1) birth dates and age at first reproduction to be similar to those observed in viviparous populations and (2) density levels and annual fecundities to be at least comparable to (Gabas), or even greater than (Louvie), those observed in viviparous populations. Differences in survival rates between oviparous and viviparous populations were generally not clear-cut. Although these comparisons between allopatric oviparous and viviparous populations cannot be regarded as direct tests of the theories of the evolution of viviparity in reptiles, they yield data for future research (transplant experiments) designed to test these theories.
Heulin, B. & Osenegg, K. & Leboubier, M. (1991) -
Heulin, B. & Stewart, J.R. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Bellaud, P. & Jouan, F. & Lancies, G. & Deunff, J. (2005) -
The evolutionary process leading to the emergence of viviparity in Squamata consists of lengthen- ing the period of egg retention in utero coupled with marked reduction in the thickness of the eggshell. We used light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy to study uterine structure during the reproductive cycle of oviparous and viviparous females of the reproductively bimodal Lacerta vivipara. We compared the structure of the uterine shell glands, which secrete components of the eggshell, during preovulatory and early gestation phases of the reproductive cycle and also compared histochemis- try of the eggshells. The uterine glands of both reproduc- tive forms undergo considerable growth within a period of a few weeks during folliculogenesis and vitellogenesis pre- ceding ovulation. The majority of the proteinaceous fibers of the shell membrane are secreted early in embryonic development and the uterine glands regress shortly there- after. This supports previous observations indicating that, in Squamata, secretion of the shell membrane occurs very rapidly after ovulation. The most striking differences be- tween reproductive modes were larger uterine glands at late vitellogenesis in oviparous females, 101 m compared to 60 m in viviparous females, and greater thickness of the shell membrane during early gestation in oviparous females (52–73 m) compared to viviparous females (4–8 m). Our intraspecific comparison supports the conclu- sions of previous studies that, prior to ovulation, the uter- ine glandular layer is less developed in viviparous than in oviparous species, and that this is the main factor ac- counting for differences in the thickness of the shell mem- brane of the two reproductive forms of squamates.
Heulin, B. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Sinervo, B. & Miles, D. & Guiller, A. (2011) -
The analysis of contact zones between lineages that were previously isolated in allopatry can lead to important insights on evolutionary processes such as selection and adaptation. In this paper we conducted a comparative demographic study of two mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) lineages of the lizard Lacerta vivipara in the western Pyrenees to provide detail on the dynamics of their contact zone. By surveying haplogroup frequency across the contact area, we revealed the existence of a stable and very narrow contact zone between two parapatric lineages, which we infer to demonstrate a role for selection in the maintenance of this contact zone. We suggest these two lineages evolved in allopatry after retreating to different refugia during the Pleistocene glaciations, and subsequently came into secondary contact after the last glacial maximum. Although haplogroup frequencies were stable over time, we found significant age and environment (temperature) dependent survival differences between mtDNA haplogroups in one contact population sampled yearly from 2002 to 2009. Therefore, temperature-induced demographic differences between the two mtDNA lineages may be responsible for the stability of this narrow contact zone. This is one of the first demographic studies conducted under natural conditions indicating the possibility of selection on mtDNA.
Heulin, B. Osenegg, K. & Michel, D. (1994) -
Lacerta vivipara est un lézard présentant à la fois des populations ovipares et vivipares. La survie et l`incubation des œufs ont été étudiées pendant quatre ans dans deux populations ovipares de cette espèce, à Louvie (370 m) et à Gabas (1100 m) dans les Pyrénées françaises. Dans la population de Louvie 25 à 56% des jeunes femelles de un an participent à la reproduction. Et la plupart des femelles adultes (âge>=2 ans) réalisent deux pontes par an. Dans la population de montagne de Gabas aucune femelle de un an ne participe à la reproduction, et moins de 20% des femelles adultes réalisent une deuxième ponte annuelle. Dans les conditions climatiques normales la période des premières pontes est comprise entre la deuxième et la dernière semaine de juin à Louvie, et entre la dernière semaine de juin et la mi-juillet à Gabas. La période de deuxième ponte a généralement lieu au cours de la deuxième quinzaine de juillet à Louvie, et au cours de la première quinzaine d`aout à Gabas. Le printemps frais de 1991 occasiona un retard de 2 semaines pour les périodes de pontes et d`éclosion de cette année. Un grand nombre de sites de pontes ont été découverts entre 1 et 3 cm de profondeur sous les mousses des tourbières étudiées. Dans les deux populations l`incubation des premières pontes dure environ 40 jours pour une température moyenne d`incubation de 18°C à 20°5. La durée moyenne d`incubation se réduit à moins de 30 jours les deuxièmes pontes de Louvie incubées à une température moyenne de 20°5 à 21°5. Les survies moyennes de œufs à Louvie et Gabas ont respectivement été de 0.49 et 0.84 pour les premières pontes et de 0.68 et 0.92 pour les seconde pontes. La prédation est la principale cause de mortalité des œufs et est particulièrement importante à Louvie. La courtillère Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa est très vraisemblablement responsable d`une grande partie (jusqu` à 44%) de la mortalité par prédation observée dans les pontes de Louvie. Les caractéristiques des populations ovipares ont été comparés à celles des populations vivipares précédemment étudiées. Ces données ne permettent pas de dégager des différences évidentes de dates de naissance et de taux de survie embryonnaire entre les deux modes de reproduction. En revanche elles confortent l`hypothèse théorique d`un accroissement de fécondité annuelle lié aux pontes multiples dans les populations ovipares de basse altitude.
Heusinger, G. (1984) -
Heusser, H. (1979) -
Heveling, W. (2008) -
Hewitt, J. (1910) -
Hewitt, J. (1925) -
Hewitt, J. (1926) -
Hewitt, J. (1927) -
Hewitt, J. (1935) -
Hewitt, J. & Camb, B.A. (1916) -
Hews, E.A. & Kime, D.E. (1978) -
Heydari, N. & Kami, H.G. & Shafiei, S. (2010) -
Heym, A. (2012) -
One important cause for the loss of biodiversity worldwide is the introduction and spread of invasive species. In Germany, several introduced lineages of the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) are known. The aim of this thesis is to investigate the influence of an frequently introduced Italian lineage on the native Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis) in Nürtingen/Germany, for the first time. The use of micro-habitats, activity-patterns and interactions of the Sand Lizard in comparison to presence and absence of the Common Wall Lizard had to be determined and compared. The research took place in two wild populations (sympatric distribution in Nürtingen and reference L. agilis population in Frickenhausen) during the hatching-period of both species from the end of June to the end of August 2011. The investigation areas were visited in daily alternation. Determinations of position and monitoring protocols half-hourly were prepared. Photographic captures of all Sand Lizards allowed calculations of population sizes, spatial use and recapture rates. Dorsal temperatures of both species together with ambient air temperatures were metered. Associated with that, the substrate selection, activities and interactions between the two species were documented and tested for niche overlap. Analysis of spatial distribution of the Sand Lizards in both investigation areas showed stronger aggregations in the sympatric distribution. The spatial niche overlap was significantly higher than expected (P = 0,017). In this case, the Common Wall Lizard was significantly more aggregated than the Sand Lizard. Within the sympatric range, the population size of the Sand Lizard comprised 69 individuals, whereas the population size of the Common Wall Lizard was estimated to 192 individuals. Activity ranges of the two species showed a high overlap for the sympatric distribution. Dorsal temperatures of P. muralis were at 2 °C significantly higher than ambient air temperatures. Compared with this, dorsal temperatures of L. agilis corresponded approximately with ambient air temperatures in both investigation areas. The overlap of substrate selection between the two species in sympatric distribution added up to 86,1%. This value was significantly higher than expected. Especially in the duration of basking, the analysis of behavioral monitoring showed a difference: P. muralis spent less time basking and showed more variable behaviors earlier during the course of the day and more often than L. agilis. Especially the Common Wall Lizard showed intraspecific interactions. Interspecific interactions were confined to basking at a distance. Considering the sympatric distribution it has been assumed that the spatial distribution of the species was not coincidental and the distribution was highly overlapping. This assumption could be confirmed. Highly overlapping distribution or aggregation is depending on several factors: Availability of preferential substrates, different abundance values and social behavior. P. muralis showed a more effective behavior of thermoregulation and reached higher body temperatures. The thermoregulative behavior and body temperatures of L. agilis showed no difference between the two study sites, indicating that there is no direct evidence for a negative influence through the presence of P. muralis. No shift in the habitat use of the Sand Lizard in the presence of the Common Wall Lizard could be observed, in spite of high niche overlap. Although the resource supply might be limited no interspecific aggressive interactions could be noticed.
Heym, A. & Deichsel, G. & Hochkirch, A. & Veith, M. & Schulte, U. (2011) -
Heym, A. & Deichsel, G. & Hochkirch, A. & Veith, M. & Schulte, U. (2013) -
Numerous introductions of common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) into populations of native sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) are known from Germany. Since the sand lizard is strongly protected by national and European laws, it is crucial to evaluate the potential for a competitive displacement of sand lizards by alien wall lizards. We here studied for the first time the impact of introduced P. muralis on native sand lizards. We compared spatial distribution, micro-habitat choice, behavioural thermoregulation, activity patterns and interactions of L. agilis in Nürtingen, Germany, in the presence and absence of introduced wall lizards originating from northern Italy. Our results show that the spatial distribution of both species and their local dispersal was strongly overlapping. The overlap in substrate selection between both species was significantly higher than expected (86%), with the strongest niche overlap between males of both species. Within the syntopic population, the population size of L. agilis was estimated at 69 ± 7 individuals, whereas the population size of P. muralis was estimated at ca. 192 individuals. Dorsal temperature of P. muralis was on average 2°C higher than the ambient air temperature (indicating a very effective thermoregulation), whereas dorsal temperature of L. agilis corresponded approximately with ambient air temperatures on both study sites. While P. muralis showed intraspecific interactions more often, interspecific interactions were rare (mainly basking at a distance). We did not detect any shift in habitat use or thermoregulation of sand lizards in the presence of introduced wall lizards. However, the strong niche overlap between both species in syntopy calls for further studies on their interspecific competition, both in situ (e.g., during the spring season) and experimentally.
Heym, A. & Deichsel, G. & Hochkirch, A. & Werner, G. & Veith, M. & Schulte, U. (2011) -
Hicks, D. (1992) -
Hicks, J.J. & Owens, J.B. (2018) -
Hildenbrand, A. (2024) -
Hildenbrand, R. (2017) -
Hildenbrandt, H. & Bender, C. & Grimm, V. & Henle, K. (1995) -
Hilgenhof, R.J. (1998) -
Hilgenhof, R.J. (2009) -
While on vacation in Puerto San Miguel in the north of Ibiza the little island Murada was visited and the endemic lizard Podarcis pityusensis muradae was observed and photographed in the habitat.
Hill, H. (2008) -
Hill, J. (2006) -
Hill, J. (2007) -
Hill, J. (2009) -
Hill, J. (2010) -
Hill, J. (2011) -
Hill, J. & Klepsch, R. (2008) -
Hill, J. & Klepsch, R. (2013) -
Hill, J. & Mayer, W. (2004) -
Hill, P. & Moulton, N. & Foster, J. (2018) -
Hillmann, B. (2003) -
Den Iran als Urlaubsziel zu wählen, dies dürfte wohl den wenigsten Deutschen einfallen. Dabei verfügt dieses riesige Land über eine reichhaltige Kultur und ist auch unter herpetologischen Gesichtspunkten sehr interessant. Andererseits bietet der Iran fast keine touristische Infrastruktur und ist dem Tourismus auch nicht wirklich aufgeschlossen - angefangen dabei, dass Kreditkarten nicht akzeptiert werden, bis hin zur Kopftuchpflicht für alle Frauen, egal welcher Nationalität oder Glaubensrichtung sie angehören. Dies alles schreckte uns jedoch nicht davon ab, per Fahrrad ca. 3600 Kilometer von Istanbul bis nach Tehran zu fahren, weitestgehend entlang der alten Seidenstrasse.
Himstedt, A. (1962) -
Himstedt, A. (1965) -
Himstedt, A. (1969) -
Hinckley, A. & Montes, E. & Ayllón, E. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2017) -
Invasive species currently account for a major threat to global biodiversity, and island ecosystems are among the most vulnerable, because of the frequency and success of species introductions on islands. Within Mediterranean islands, reptiles not only are frequently introduced species but are also among the most threatened because of these introductions. The Balearic archipelago is a good example of this, since only two of its current 16 species of reptiles are native. Thirteen years ago, the snake Hemorrhois hippocrepis was introduced by cargo in Ibiza island, and it is in expansion. Individuals obtained from an early eradication campaign showed a fast expression of phenotypic plasticity and acquired larger sizes than those of the source population, probably due to a high prey availability and predator scarcity. The species is thriving at the expense of a small variety of native and non-native prey, but the predation pressure on the endemic Podarcis pityusensis, the only native reptile in the island, is very high, as this lizard represents 56% of the prey in frequency, which might threaten its survival on the long term. Our results on the feeding ecology of the snake are of sufficient concern to justify the maintenance of actions to eradicate this invader.
Hinds, B. (2023) -
The early detection of invasive reptiles, before they become established and widespread, is critical to increase our chances of full eradication. Here I present, some proven and effective tools to use with that effort at a low cost financially. Spain alone has over 41,179 citizen naturalists that have contributed 1,873,000 observation data points in Spain. And this number is rising daily! We will discuss ways to engage these naturalists, to the fullest extent, in hopes of getting a jump on any new invasives that show up. I will also discuss tools and tactics to follow up on any early detections, in order to fully survey these areas effectively and efficiently at a minimal cost, for years following the original detection. Having the general public help with eradication/containment efforts has proven to be successful, and here we take a deeper dive into maximizing the efforts of citizen naturalists. Once a new invasive species is detected, effective field tactics are required to survey the area to understand the extent of invasion, and I will go into those methods in great detail.
Hingley, K.J. (1988) -
Hingley, K.J. (1994) -
Hingray, T. (2014) -
Hipsley, C. (2012) -
The evolutionary diversification of many terrestrial vertebrate groups is strongly linked to climatic events in the Cenozoic, the period from 65 Million years ago to today when modern animals first appeared. I investigated the effects of Cenozoic climate change on the taxonomic and morphological diversification of the Old World lizard family Lacertidae, with particular emphasis on the African radiation. African lacertids exhibit an unusual pattern of diversification, in which their highest species richness occurs in deserts north and south of the equator, despite being spread throughout the continent. This disparity is particularly surprising given that desert lacertids are thought to be evolutionarily younger than their mesic-dwelling relatives, suggesting increased diversification rates in arid habitats. To identify the evolutionary factors underlying this pattern, I use a combination of phylogenetic, morphological and ecological techniques. In Chapter 1, I apply Bayesian methods and fossil-based calibrations to molecular sequence data to construct a time-calibrated phylogeny for Lacertidae. I estimate that the family arose in the early Cenozoic, with the majority of their African radiation occurring in the Eocene and Oligocene. In Chapter 2, I describe changes in lacertid body shape across biomes and substrates, and find widespread morphological convergence in similar habitat types. I suggest that in addition to foraging demands, fluctuating and extreme climatic conditions, largely driven by precipitation and temperature, contribute to morphological convergence across independent arid-dwelling clades. Finally, I test if ancestral transitions in ecology, morphology, and rates of diversification temporally coincide with paleoclimatic events in the Cenozoic. I use High Resolution X-ray Computed Tomography to characterize changes in the skull related to life in arid habitats, and apply maximum likelihood methods to test if the origins of those traits temporally coincide with significant shifts in habitat, diversification rates and climatic changes. My results show that African lacertids experienced three major peaks in diversification, accompanied by the evolution of suites of arid-adapted morphological traits. These changes coincide with climatic shifts in Africa, including the transition from closed forests to open grasslands and savanna in the late Oligocene, prior to the peak temperatures of the mid-Miocene Climatic Optimum, and following the formation of the Benguela current leading to hyper-aridity in southern Africa. I conclude that deserts are important centers for reptile evolution, but that expected changes in climate due to global warming may outpace the ability of arid-dwelling species to adapt and persist in the future.
Hipsley, C. & Himmelmann L. & Metzler D. & Müller J. (2009) -
Background: Although current molecular clock methods offer greater flexibility in modelling evolutionary events, calibration of the clock with dates from the fossil record is still problematic for many groups. Here we implement several new approaches in molecular dating to estimate the evolutionary ages of Lacertidae, an Old World family of lizards with a poor fossil record and uncertain phylogeny. Four different models of rate variation are tested in a new program for Bayesian phylogenetic analysis called TreeTime, based on a combination of mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences. We incorporate paleontological uncertainty into divergence estimates by expressing multiple calibration dates as a range of probabilistic distributions. We also test the reliability of our proposed calibrations by exploring effects of individual priors on posterior estimates. Results: According to the most reliable model, as indicated by Bayes factor comparison, modern lacertids arose shortly after the K/T transition and entered Africa about 45 million years ago, with the majority of their African radiation occurring in the Eocene and Oligocene. Our findings indicate much earlier origins for these clades than previously reported, and we discuss our results in light of paleogeographic trends during the Cenozoic. Conclusion: This study represents the first attempt to estimate evolutionary ages of a specific group of reptiles exhibiting uncertain phylogenetic relationships, molecular rate variation and a poor fossil record. Our results emphasize the sensitivity of molecular divergence dates to fossil calibrations, and support the use of combined molecular data sets and multiple, well-spaced dates from the fossil record as minimum node constraints. The bioinformatics program used here, TreeTime, is publicly available, and we recommend its use for molecular dating of taxa faced with similar challenges.
Hipsley, C.A. & Miles, D.B. & Müller, J. (2014) -
While global variation in taxonomic diversity is strongly linked to latitude, the extent to which morphological disparity follows geographical gradients is less well known. We estimated patterns of lineage diversification, morphological disparity and rates of phenotypic evolution in the Old World lizard family Lacertidae, which displays a nearly inverse latitudinal diversity gradient with decreasing species richness towards the tropics. We found that lacertids exhibit relatively constant rates of lineage accumulation over time, although the majority of morphological variation appears to have originated during recent divergence events, resulting in increased partitioning of disparity within subclades. Among subclades, tropical arboreal taxa exhibited the fastest rates of shape change while temperate European taxa were the slowest, resulting in an inverse relationship between latitudinal diversity and rates of phenotypic evolution. This pattern demonstrates a compelling counterexample to the ecological opportunity theory of diversification, suggesting an uncoupling of the processes generating species diversity and morphological differentiation across spatial scales.
Hipsley, C.A., & Müller, J. (2017) -
Phenotypic convergence has confounded evolutionary biologists for centuries, explained as adaptations to shared selective pressures, or alternatively, the result of limited developmental pathways. We tested the relative roles of adaptation and constraint in generating convergent cranial morphologies across a large lizard radiation, the Lacertidae, whose members inhabit diverse environments throughout the Old World and display high amounts of homoplasy associated with ecological niche. Using 3D X-ray computed tomography, we quantified cranial shape variation associated with ontogeny, allometry, and ecology, covering all lacertid genera and one-third of species diversity. Landmark-based geometric morphometrics showed that cranial shape varied significantly among biomes, with substantial convergence among arid-dwelling lineages. Comparisons of species cranial growth trajectories between biomes revealed that allometric postdisplacement, as evidenced by decreased elevation of a constant ontogenetic slope, drives the convergent paedomorphic appearance of independent arid-dwelling forms. We hypothesize that observed heterochronic changes reflect temporal compression of ancestral life history in response to extreme environments, with associated phenotypes occurring as by-products of adaptive shifts in reproductive investment. Although allometry has long been considered a developmental constraint, our results demonstrate that allometric flexibility during early ontogeny produces convergent ecomorphologies over vast temporal and spatial scales, thus dramatically obscuring underlying phylogenetic signals.
Hirc, D. (1901) -
Hirc, D. (1914) -
Hirschfelder, A. & Hirschfelder, H.-J. & Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2006) -
Hirschler, J. (1928) -
Hirtz D. (1911) -
Hirtz, M. (1923) -
Hirtz, M. (1930) -
Hitschfeld, E. (2010) -
Hocenski, K. (2019) -
Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus (Rafinesque, 1810) and Dalmatian wall lizard, Podarcis melisellesis (Braun, 1877) are two species from family Lacertidae. Podarcis siculus is widespread in Italy, but spreads also on Adriatic islands, while Podarcis melisellesis is spread over coastal belt from northwest coast of Italy to nortwestern Albania. When these two species share the same habitat, Podarcis siculus overpower Podarcis melisellesis as the dominant competitor. In this Graduation thesis I have studied learning as one of the factors influencing the competition between these two species. The research was carried out on total of 56 individuals. Prior to the experimental procedure, the animals passed the three-day habituation and then they were tested for ten days in the eighth radial labyrinth. The results have shown that females of P. siculus move more and change their behavior after the seventh day, suggesting some form of spatial recognition. Also, the results showed that males of P. melisellensis showed a trend of increasing entering in goal zone, which indicate level of spatial recognition. But, overall, this study has shown that learning is not crucial factor which can affects dominance of one species over the other, also it indicates that both of this species are not the best model examples for learning, as only two parameters have been statistically and ecologically significant.
Primorska gušterica Podarcis siculus (Rafinesque, 1810) i krška gušterica Podarcis melisellesis (Braun, 1877) su dvije vrste guštera iz porodice Lacertidae. P. siculus je rasprostranjena u Italiji, no raširena je i po jadranskim otocima, dok je P. melisellensis rasprostranjena u obalnom pojasu od sjeveroistočne obale Italije do sjeverozapadne Albanije. Ako se nađu na istom staništu, dolazi do kompeticije između njih. P. siculus ističe se kao dominantni kompetitor nad P. melisellensis. U ovom radu proučavala sam učenje kao jedan od faktora koji bi mogao utjecati na kompeticiju između ove dvije vrste gušterica. Istraživanje je provedeno na ukupno 56 jedinki. Prije početka istraživanja, životinje su prošle trodnevnu habituaciju te su nakon toga testirane deset dana u osmerokrakom radijalnom labirintu. Rezultati su pokazali da se ženke P. siculus više kreću i da nakon sedmog dana mijenjaju svoje ponašanje, što možda upućuje na prepoznavanje prostora. Također, pokazali su da mužjaci P. melisellensis pokazuju trend porasta ulaska u krak do ciljne zone od 1. do 10. dana, što također ukazuje na mehanizam prepoznavanja prostora. No, sveukupno ovo istraživanje je pokazalo da učenje nije čimbenik koji utječe na dominaciju jedne vrste nad drugom ili da su obje vrste loši modeli za istraživanje učenja, jer su se samo dva parametra (količina kretanja i ciljna zona/ krak) pokazala statistički i ekološki značajnim.
Hochrathner, P. & Wegleitner, S. (1997) -
Beitrag zur Vogelwelt des westlichen Toten Gebirges (Oberösterreich, Steiermark; Österreich) mit einem Anhang über das Vorkommen von Amphibien, Reptilien und Säugetieren. - Bericht über die 5. oberösterreichisch-subböhmische ornithologische Exkursion im Gebiet der Ebenseer Hochkogel-Hütte im Westteil des Toten Gebirges vom 27.-30. Juni 1996. - Montícola, Innsbruck, 8 (82): 39-46.
Hochstetter, F. (1946) -
Hódar, J.A. (1997) -
Hódar, J.A. (2002) -
Hódar, J.A. & Campos, F. & Rosales, B.A. (1996) -
The diet of the Ocellated Lizard Lacerta lepida was studied by means of faecal analysis, during two consecutive summers, in an arid zone of south-east Spain. The analysis of 181 faecal samples revealed 1929 prey items. Coleoptera was consistently the main group in the diet; two beetle species, Ditomus capito and Morica hybrida , maintained a frequency of around 40% in the diet. Vertebrates and gastropods were scarce, whereas plant food, comprised of fleshy fruits of Caper Capparis spinosa and Ephedra Ephedra distachya , varied in importance throughout the study period. The lizard diet was also compared with prey availability, estimated by pitfall traps. Selectivity analysis showed strong selection of the lizard upon some groups and systematic rejection of others. Daily activity of the Ocellated Lizard, as well as its diet composition, was studied in relation to daily activity of prey. The lizard diet proved to be based on nocturnal prey, implying active searching for these groups during the day, or a partially crepuscular-nocturnal activity in the lizard, overlapping with prey activity. The lack of diurnal sightings of the lizard throughout the summer favours the second option. The ecological implications of this feeding strategy in arid systems are discussed.
Hodges, R.J. & Seabrook, C. (2022) -
Hodgkins, J. & Davis, C. & Foster, J. (2012) -
Italian wall lizards Podarcis siculus campestris were accidentally introduced to a site in Buckinghamshire, UK with a consignment of stone originating in Italy. Many populations of this lizard and closely related species have been established outside their native range, sometimes from a small number of founders. Mindful of the potential for these lizards to establish in the UK, we decided on a “rapid response” intervention. We captured four lizards, including a gravid female, and removed them to a secure captive collection. The capture operation comprised two visits, with specialist advice assisting estate management and nature conservation staff. Vegetation around the stone was cut back to dissuade dispersal in an effort to contain any remaining lizards. The imported stone and surrounding area were placed under surveillance, and no further lizards were found over the course of two years. Good communications between landowners, a government agency and reptile specialists expedited this intervention. We conclude that this simple, low-effort example of rapid response has eliminated the risk of a non-native invasive species establishing.
Hodson, N.L. (1964) -
Hoesch, W. (1961) -
Hofer, R. (1970) -
Hofer, R. (1977) -
Hofer, R. (1988) -
Hofer, U. (2001) -
Hofer, U. (2002) -
Hofer, U. & Droz, B. (1991) -
Die in den Jahren 1987-1990 durchgeführte Bestandesaufnahme der Reptilien im Kanton Bern hatte zum Ziel, ein möglichst genaues Bild der Verbreitung und Habitatansprüche der im Kanton heimischen Reptilienarten zu erarbeiten, ihren Gefährdungsgrad zu erfassen und Schutzmöglichkeiten zu formulieren. Aus zeitlichen und personellen Gründen war eine flächendeckende Bearbeitung des Kantons nicht möglich. Er wurde in zehn Sektoren eingeteilt, die in den Sommerhalbjahren 88 und 89 in total 48 Arbeitstagen nach Reptilien abgesucht wurden. Mit einem speziellen Protokollblatt wurden die im Feld abzugrenzenden Habitate der Reptilien (sog. Teilobjekte) erfasst, die a) Schlangen und/oder b) eine Echsenpopulation enthielten. Einzelfunde von Echsen und ältere, von uns nicht bestätigte Reptilienfunde wurden in separaten Listen festgehalten. Das ausgewertete Datenmaterial bestand aus 695 Teilobjekten und 2294 Einzelbeobachtungen. Im Kanton Bern heimisch sind heute neun Reptilienarten: Blindschleiche (Anguis fragilis), Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis), Wald-, Berg- oder Mooreidechse (Lacerta vivipara), Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis), Ringelnatter (Natrix natrix), Schlingnatter (Coronella austriaca), Aspisiviper (Vipera aspis) und Kreuzotter (Vipera berus) sowie die am Brienzersee illegal ausgesetzte Würfelnatter (Natrix tessellata). Die Europäische Sumpfschildkröte (Emys orbicularis) wurde vereinzelt beobachtet, doch ist nicht klar, ob sie sich im Kanton Bern fortpflanzt oder es sich stets um ausgesetzte Tiere handelt. Von den acht ursprünglich heimischen Arten leben nur die beiden Giftschlangen nicht in allen drei grösseren Naturräumen des Kantons. Die Kreuzotter kommt nur im Alpenraum (Bemer Oberland), die Aspisviper zusätzlich im Jura vor. Als ausgestorben gilt die Ringelnatter im Jura. Regional vom Aussterben bedroht sind die Schlingnatter im Mittelland und die Aspisviper im Jura. Eine deutliche regionale Abnahme verzeichnen die Schlingnatter im Jura, die Aspsiviper im Alpenraum und die Ringelnatter im Mittelland. Mit dem vorhandenen Datenmaterial nicht zu beurteilen sind der Status der Kreuzotter sowie der Ringelnatter und Schlingnatter im Alpenraum. Die vier Echsen zeigen regional Bestandesrückgänge, sind aber mittelfristig ungefährdet. Den grössten Anteil unter den Habitaten haben Ruderalstandorte, d.h. spärlich genutzte oder unbewirtschaftete Flächen. Das beste Habitatangebot für Reptilien besteht im Bemer Oberland, während es sich im Mittelland und auch vielerorts im Jura zunehmend verschlechtert.
Hofer, U. & Grossenbacher, K. (1986) -
Hofer, U. & Grossenbacher, K. (1988) -
Hoffien, J.H. (1957) -
Hofman, E.G. (1963) -
Hofmann, O. (1911) -
Hofmann, S. (2002) -
With a new technique blood can be collected from the artery or vein in the elbow ventral site. Besides, a 1-2 mm long cut is led with a sterile scalpel blade and the escaping drop ofblood is taken with a glass capillary tube. Subsequently the wound is disinfected and heals within fewer days. After collection, the blood is immediately transferred to sterile blood tubes containing TL- Buffer (E.Z.N.A.® Tissue DNA Kit II, PEQLAB GmbH) and stored at -70 °C. This is a save and simple alternative method compared to collect blood from caudal vessels (risk of tail loss) or cardiac puncture (not praticable in the field). Within the scope of a research project on Zootoca vivipara 486 single blood samples from 149 adult, 160 subadult and 177 juvenile lizards were collected by using this technique. In none ofthe cases complications occurred.
Hofmann, S. (2004) -
The common lizard is distributed throughout Germany. However, its distribution in the centre of East Germany decreased in regions characterised by intensive agriculture due to fragmentation of landscape. A current map of the species distribution in Saxony-Anhalt was drawn up containing past records (1964 - 1989) as well as recent records (1990 – 2002). It shows a tendencial decrease, in particular of several isolated populations in the open landscape and of outer populations of the distribution centres. Fragmentation processes are usually assumed to lead to a loss of genetic variability due to genetic drift in small populations and the reduction of gene flow between populations. We tested this hypothesis by comparing the amount and the structure of genetic variability at seven microsatellite loci in five populations from different fragmented parts of Saxony-Anhalt and Saxony with that of two populations from regions, which have not been subjected to recent fragmentation (Harz, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern). The level of heterozygosity was similarly high in all populations tested, whereas allelic diversity of the fragmented populations differed significantly from the pristine populations. This might be a first indication of genetic pauperization. The large genetic distance observed between the populations analysed does not allow to draw clearcut conclusions. However, it is assumed, that the intensive agriculture acts as an anthropogenic barrier on gene flow between the populations of Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt.
Hofmann, S. (2005) -
Hofmann, S. (2006) -
Hofmann, S. (2008) -
Several lizard species have been shown to exhibit kin recognition, including green iguanas (Iguana iguana), three Australian Scincid species (Egernia stokesii, E. striolata and Tiliqua rugosa) and common lizards (Lacerta vivipara). Thus, observations of close neighboured individuals of the common lizard that consist of differently or same-aged individuals at a given site may generate speculation about the relatedness structure of such combinations and putative “social” patterns of this species. A total of 682 lizards were sampled from a population in a nature reserve near Leipzig, Germany. Relatedness statistics were calculated using five microsatellite DNA loci. The relatedness of individuals that were sighted or captured together was compared by grouping them on sex and age. The results showed that pairs of adults and juveniles were significantly more related than all other combinations, with adults showing the lowest mean values of relatedness, followed by a similar low level of relatedness between subadults. Most “pairs” were found in juveniles. Pairs of subadults and juveniles as well as of adults and juveniles consisted mainly of females. In subadults and adults, males were non-related. Little evidence was found to indicate that relatedness is relevant to the spatial distance between individuals. The relatedness patterns of associated individuals may arise from male sex-biased dispersal rather than from active kin preferences based on kin discrimination.
Hofmann, S. & Henle, K. (2006) -
The common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) is a small, nonterritorial, live-bearing lacertid that is sexually dimorphic in several morphological traits (e.g., tail length, snout–vent length, head size). Using microsatellites, we examined paternity in a wild population and investigated whether sexual dimorphism could be the result of intra- or intersexual selection. We found multiple paternity in 65.4% of 26 clutches. There was no evidence of assortative mating. Successfully reproducing males were larger and heavier and had longer tail regenerates or intact tails compared to those that did not reproduce. Tail length and body condition of males were related to the number of offspring sired. However, we found no evidence that head width was related to male reproductive success. We conclude that (1) males with higher body condition index might be more successful in male-male interactions or might be able to search more effectively for females, (2) sex divergence in relative tail length in common lizards reflects the action of sexual selection for male reproductive success, and (3) intersexual dietary divergence could be an alternative hypothesis for head size difference between sexes rather than intrasexual selection.
Hofstra, J. (1996) -
I found a highly pregnant Lacerta vivipara sunning itself on a bicycle lane in the Lippenhuisterheide on 8 July 1995. Her tail had been recently broken off. There was a good chance that if the animal was left where it was, that it would be run over and killed. Therefore I took the animal home with me, even though this species has been protected in the Netherlands since 1973. She produced twelve transparent eggs about 8x12 mm in size. Eleven hatched successfully; only one young died directly after hatching. The young lizards were dark in colour and measured 40- 44 mm in length (head-body length 20- 22mm). I fed them with green flies. After a week the mother and her brood were returned to the area where the mother was found.
Hofstra, J. (2000) -
The author visited the Greek island of Crete at the end of April - beginning of May 1999. The island was suffering a heat wave, which was probably the reason that fewer reptiles were seen than expected. It was rather disconcerting to find an American Trachemys scripta elegans surface among the Mauremys rivulata in a pond near the town of Mochós. This introduction could have dangerous implications to the native species. It was also remarkable to find that the Greek are convinced that Chalcides o. ocellatus is very poisonous and that Telescopus fallax pallidus can even be deadly to humans. Other species that were found are: Lacerta trilineata polylepidota, Coluber gemonensis and Natrix tessellata tessellata; the amphibians Bufo viridis viridis, Hyla arborea kretensis, and many Rana cretensis. The fact all three amphibian species known from Crete were observed, in spite of the excessive heat, was surprising. The shell of a dead, partially decomposed Testudo marginata was discovered in an abandoned garden in Stalis; this species is not native to the island, and this is the first record of its occurrence on Crete.
Hofstra, J. (2003) -
In May 2003 the temperature on the Greek island of Lesbos was unseasonably high and not a drop of rain fell. Most likely that was the reason why no toads (Bufo bufo and Bufo viridis) were found. Green Frogs (Rana spec.) were abundant. The Common Tree Frog (Hyla arborea) was observed in low numbers. In terms of lizards, Balkan Green Lizards (Lacerta trilineata) were the most common; much less frequently observed were the Snake- eyed Lacertid (Ophisops elegans) and the Turkish Gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus). In addition, we report the presence of the Starred Agama (Laudakia stellio) and European Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus apodus thracius). We encountered five species of snakes: Montpellier Snake (Malpolon monspessulanus), Grass Snake (Natrix natrix persa); Dice Snake (Natrix tessellata); Large Whip Snake (Coluber caspius) and Ottoman Viper (Vipera xanthina). Turtles and tortoises were abundant. In a narrow coastal strip no less than 60 Spur-thighed Tortoises were seen. Balkan Terrapins (Mauremys rivulata) were found in nearly every body of water, occasionally together with European Pond Terrapins (Emys orbicularis). The latter species was observed with significantly less frequency. The ’Lesbian Wildlife Hospital’ is currently breeding a once wounded female Marginated Tortoise (Testudo marginata), which is being crossed with a male Testudo graeca. The hybrid young born from this pair are unfortunately released on the island.
Hofstra, J. (2011) -
Habitat types of the sand lizard and the common lizard in the province of Overijssel. In the period 1998-2008 observations of the sand lizard and the common lizard were collected in the province of Overijssel. The sand lizard was found in 44 grid cells of 1x1 km, the common lizard in 245. Special attention was payed to the habitat types of both species. In a number of habitats surface temperatures were measured with the help of alcohol thermometers. On the base of phytosociological relevées the various habitats were described in terms of vegetation types (Braun- Blanquet approach). For the sand lizard and the common lizard 8 and 21 habitat types respectively could be discerned (table 1 and 2). Both lizards were usually found in habitats where high maximum temperatures and great differences in microclimate occur.
Höger, J. (1936) -
Hohenacker, F.R. (1831) -
Hohenacker, F.R. (1837) -
Hohl, C. (1988) -
Hohlfeld, T. (2023) -
Hoinsoude Segniagbeto, G. & Trape, J.-F. & Afiademanyo, K. M. & Rödel, M.-O. & Ohler, A. & Dubois, A. & David, P. & Meirte, D. & Glitho, I.A. & Petrozzi, F. & Luiselli, L. (2015) -
The lizard fauna of Togo, a country situated within a natural gap in the rainforest zone of West Africa, is reviewed and updated. In this article, we summarize all available data on the distribution, ecology, and conservation status of the 43 lizard species of Togo. Species richness is uneven between vegetation zones. The submontane forest (ecological zone IV), despite being the smallest, houses the greatest number of species (n = 27), followed by dry forest (ecological zone II, n = 21). Currently none of the Togolese lizard species appears to be immediately threatened. However, several species are subjected to exploitation for the international pet trade and in-country use (bush-meat, fetish market), and could become threatened in the next decades. The intensity of this trade should be carefully monitored in the years to come.
Hojati, V. & Keshavarz, S.M. & Behniafar, R. & Shiravi, A. (2016) -
The Caspian Green Lizard, Lacerta strigata Eichwald, 1831, is a member of the Lacertidae family distributed in the Caspian coast of northern Iran. The specimens were found in coastal dunes, hilly areas and pastureland containing some shrubby cover. In this research, the reproductive biology of this species was studied from April 20 to September 5, 2013. Forty eight adult specimens including 24 females and 24 males were collected by hand at midday from three sampling stations (Goharbaran, Ab-Bandansar and Ab-Bandankesh) of Sari County, located in Mazandaran Province of Iran. Ovaries and testes were removed and processed for histological and morphometric studies. In females, there were 6¬17 follicles in each ovary. Totally, 6¬10 oviductal eggs were observed in mature females. The oogenic and spermatogenic cycle begins from late March, mating starts from early May, with oviposition occurring from late May to late June, with the possibility of producing a secondary clutch later in the season. In males, the mean number and mean diameter of seminiferous tubules were 86.95 and 190.4750 microns, respectively. The mean diameter of tunica albuginea, germinal layer and lumen were 18.75, 69.79 and 144.27 microns, respectively. Maximum reproductive activity occurs from early May to early June, reduces from early July and ends in August. Hence, oogenesis and spermatogenesis occurs from April through July, L. strigata follows a seasonal reproductive cycle with associated type.
Holandre, J. (1836) -
Holandre, J. (1851) -
Holfert, T. & Holfert, S. (2006) -
Es wird über den Fund von Archaeolacerta bedriagae am Monte Pino in Nordost-Sardinien berichtet. Die Eidechsen wurden an einer kleinen Felsgruppe in der Gipfelregion (742 m ü. NN) beobachtet. Die Verfasser vermuten, dass die Art reliktartig verbreitet ist.
Hollanders, M. & Serrano, F. & Leerschool, T. & Beukema, W. (2018) -
Presentamos nuevos registros de distribución en malla UTM de 10x10 km para Psammodromus algirus, Coronella austriaca y Vipera latastei en Soria, Castilla y León (España). Así mismo reportamos la sintopía de Podarcis muralis y Podarcis liolepis en dicha área. Adicionalmente, proveemos información detallada de la ocurrencia de 17 especies de reptiles y anfibios como contribución al esfuerzo de elaboración de mapas de herpetofauna de Soria.
Hollec, P. & Kminiak, M. (1970) -
Hollingsworth, B.D. & Thomson, A. (2016) -
Holm, E. (1972) -
Holm, E. (1973) -
Holsclaw, N. (2021) -
As thermoregulators, lizard movement is influenced by changing temperatures across seasons in temperate ecosystems. Lizard thermal performance may or may not be plastic to allow successful invasion or introduction to new locations with different thermal regimes. Measuring locomotor performance can determine an individual’s ability to capture prey or escape predation. This study tests sprint speed performance in the introduced European wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, established in Cincinnati since 1952. Measuring performance of introduced lizards at various body temperatures on a 0.5 m racetrack will determine if their thermal optimum differs from the 33-35˚C thermal optimum of native European populations.
Holtmann, T. (2013) -
Holtz, Martin (1903) -
Holusa, J. & Holusa, O. (1999) -
Holzhauer, J. & Onnes, C.E. (2012) -
In the Netherlands the common lizard has strongly declined in numbers. To find the possible cause and to take good measures to preserve the common lizard, Stichting RAVON asked the authors to investigate the population common lizards in the Overasseltse and Hatertse Vennen. The main question of this research is: How has the population common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) in the Overasseltse and Hatertse Vennen developed between 1976 and 2012 in numbers and condition and what is the effect of management? To investigate the present population size the density (n/ha) has been determined, the Strijbosch method (Strijbosch, 2008) has been used with to determine the density. Apart from that the condition of the common lizard was tested by looking at the snout vent length/weight relation and the difference in condition. Also the mean numbers of ticks per lizard has been investigated. This is done in four research plots, namely dry grazed area, dry ungrazed area, wet grazed area and wet ungrazed area. In this way the effects of grazing and water regime was tested. Apart from that for all research plots the vegetation and the vegetation structure was investigated. Also the temperature and air humidity was tested in two research plots. The present condition, mean number of ticks per lizard and the density was compared with data from 1976 – 1981, so increase and decline could be noticed. This research showed that the present densities are substantial lower compared to the original population (21 – 5 % of the reference population is still present). In spite of the fact that the mean number of ticks per lizard had increased, the condition of the common lizard in 2012 is not significantly different from the condition of the population 1976 – 1981 in the months March and April. The densities are lower in the grazed research plots than in the ungrazed research plots. This is caused by the open vegetation structure as a result of the grazing. Also the mean number of ticks per lizard and the percentage of infected lizards is higher in the grazed plots than in the ungrazed plots. This is probably caused by a higher population of ticks in areas with great mammals than in areas without great mammals. The condition between adult male common lizards in the research areas dry grazed and dry ungrazed is significantly different. The condition of the male common lizards in research area dry ungrazed is better than in research area dry grazed. The condition between lizards that are infected with ticks and uninfected lizards is also significantly different. Infected lizards have a better condition than uninfected lizards. A possible explanation for this is a higher level of testosterone in the blood of the common lizard. Because of this, common lizards are traveling more which increases the chance that they can meet ticks. This increased level of testosterone can’t be investigated in this research. It was also found that the densities in dry areas are higher than in wet areas. Recommendations of this investigation are: • More research whereby the effect of ticks on the common lizard and the effect of grazing intensity will be investigated • More research whereby the population of common lizards in the Overasseltse en Hatertse Vennen will be monitored. • It is recommended not to use season grazing as management tool. • It is recommended to preserve wet and dry habitat next to each other.
Homan, C.M. (2013) -
We investigated two critical aspects of an animal invasion: the possibility of a genetic bottleneck upon introduction, and microhabitat choice during the spread into a novel environment. Many invasive species seem likely to undergo a genetic bottleneck upon introduction since only a few individuals are needed to found a population. However, bottlenecks are uncommon in invasive species, suggesting that there may be an important cost to bottlenecks. We studied an invasive population of common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in Cincinnati, Ohio that is thought have been the product of a single introduction of a few individuals in the early 1950`s. Our microsatellite analysis of genetic samples collected directly from the source population and compared them to samples collected from the Cincinnati population confirmed a substantial loss of genetic diversity, indicating a genetic bottleneck. Simulations suggest that the bottleneck was likely on the scale of three individuals. The loss of allelic diversity was so large that we were unable to confirm the Italian source of the Cincinnati population. Despite this clear loss of genetic diversity, Podarcis muralis is still thriving in the introduced range. Previous studies have found that environmental niche modeling does not fully predict the invasion success of introduced P. muralis. We attempted to characterize microhabitat use as a more effective or complementary means to predict the extent of invasion of this species. Cincinnati P. muralis have been noted to prefer south facing artificial rock walls. We quantified 17 variables in sites with confirmed high densities of lizards and compared those with low or zero density sites nearby to determine the components of microhabitat most contribute to the proliferation of the species. Our results indicate that the most important factor for high density is not rock substrate, but substrate crack density, which is likely a source of refuge for the species. Other factors such as total amount of suitable substrate and overall distribution of cover types were less important. Our results suggest that this lizard is not necessarily limited to urban areas. This ability to use a broad range of microhabitats, combined with their ability to thrive at even very low levels of genetic diversity suggests Podarcis muralis is a very robust invader, whose full impact on native species may not yet be apparent.
Homeyer, A. von (1862) -
Honan, C. (2022) -
Honders, J. (1965) -
Honegger, R.E. (1981) -
Honnorat-Bastide, E.-F. (1891) -
Hoofien, J.H. (1957) -
Hoofien, J.H. (1968) -
Hoofien, J.H. (1969) -
Hoofien, J.H. & Sivan, N. & Werner, Y.L. (1990) -
Hoogmoed, M.S. (1961) -
Hooker, D. (1912) -
Hoppmanns, H. & Braun-Lüllemann, J. (2025) -
Höpstein, G. (2011) -
In den Jahren von 2008 bis 2010 erfolgte eine faunistische Untersuchung zu den Artengruppen Reptilien und Heuschrecken im Naturschutzgebiet „Greifenstein“ bei Bad Blankenburg. In diesem Zeitraum konnten 3 Reptilienarten und 19 Heuschreckenarten im untersuchten Gebiet nachgewiesen werden. Als besonders bemerkenswert ist der Nachweis der Rotflügeligen Schnarrschrecke (Psophus stridulus, Kat. 2 RLT) am Südhang des Hausberges im Jahr 2009 anzusehen.
Horesh, S.A. & Ovadia, O. (2024) -
Anthropogenic changes, such as land use, are the main drivers causing climate change and biodiversity loss, with hundreds of thousands of species lacking sufficient habitats for their populations to persist and likely to go extinct within decades. Endemic species are more susceptible to habitat changes and are at the forefront of the biodiversity crisis. We used species distribution models to generate a relative habitat suitability map and identified the habitat requirements of the critically endangered and endemic Be`er Sheva fringe-fingered lizard {Acanthodactylus beershebensis). The model showed that the species` suitable habitats are associated with arid loess plains characterized by scattered, low vegetation cover, primarily on north-facing aspects, suggesting that these species-specific habitat requirements limit its distribution. The size of the potentially suitable area within the species` historical range is 1350.73 km2. However, anthropogenic changes decreased the remaining suitable habitat to 995.04 km2. Most of this area is unprotected and at risk of further adverse anthropogenic effects. Only 91.72 km2 of this area is protected by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, and 587.11 km2 may be considered indirectly protected because it is within military firing zones. Our study is the first attempt to map the remaining suitable habitat of A. beershebensis based on the results of a species distribution model. The results of this model can assist in prioritizing the protection of areas needed for the conservation of this critically endangered and endemic lizard species.
Höricht, W. (1927) -
Horn (1913) -
Horn, H.-G. (1976) -
Hornero, M.J. & Roca, V. (1992) -
Pharyngodon medinae García-Calvente, 1948 (Nematoda: Pharyngodonidae) is redescribed from Podarcis pityusensis (Bosca, 1883) (Sauria: Lacertidae) of the Balearic Islands (Spain) and confirmed as a member of the genus Skrjabinodon Inglis, 1968. A systematic review of S. medinae and closely related species is also given. Parathelandros canariensis is referred to Skrjabinodon as a new combination and Parathelandros Magzoub et al., 1980 is dismissed as a junior homonym of Parathelandros Baylis, 1930.
A survey about the helminthfauna of Podarcis lilfordi (Günther, 1874) (Sauria, Lacertidae) in the Gimnesic Islands (Balearic Islands, Spain) has been carried out. Eleven species of helminths were found, two Digenea, eight Nematoda and one Acanthocephala. Data of prevalence of each helminth species are indicated. The nematodes Skrjabinodon medinae and Spauligodon cabrerae show the highest values of prevalence and abundance. Host-parasite relationships are discussed, and the absence of cestodes is pointed out.
Hornig, M. (2016) -
Hornung, V. (1898) -
Horreo, J.L. & Breedveld, M.C. & Lindtke, D. & Heulin, B. & Surget-Groba, J. & Fitze, P.S. (2019) -
Mechanisms leading to sympatric speciation are diverse and may build up reproductive isolation. Reproductive isolation among differentiated clades may exist due to genetic incompatibilities, sexual selection, differences in parity mode, reduced post-zygotic survival or reproductive success of hybrids. Here, we test whether differences in parity mode lead to reproductive isolation by investigating introgression in Zootoca vivipara, a lizard species exhibiting oviparous and viviparous reproduction. We measured introgression in transects spanning different viviparous clades, different oviparous subclades, transects containing oviparous and viviparous clades, and transects within the same subclade (control transects). Introgression in transects spanning oviparous and viviparous clades was one order of magnitude smaller than transects spanning the same reproductive mode and no statistical differences existed between transects spanning the same reproductive mode and control transects. Among types of transects, no significant differences existed in genetic and geographic distances, nor number of detected alleles. Moreover, hybrids were detected in all types of transects, showing that parity mode alone does not necessarily lead to complete reproductive isolation, which suggests that reinforcement may play an important role. The evolution of different parity modes together with reinforcement may thus promote reproductive isolation and rapid speciation, potentially explaining why only six of the almost 40,000 vertebrates belonging to groups consisting of viviparous and oviparous species exhibit bimodal reproduction.
Horreo, J.L. & Fitze, P. (2015) -
The knowledge of a species’ population structure is essential for the development of adequate conservation actions as well as for the understanding of its evolution. The population structure is unknown in all species of the Genus Psammodromus, including the Western Sand Racer (Psammodromus occidentalis; a recently described species), the Edward’s Sand Racer (P. edwardsianus) and the Spanish Sand Racer (P. hispanicus). In this article, the genetic variability and population structure of Psammodromus edwardsianus, P. hispanicus, andP. occidentalis were studied in the Iberian Peninsula covering their natural geographic distribution. Mitochondrial DNA showed genetically different units in all species with higher genetic variability in their southern populations (latitudinal variation). Genetic differentiation was different among species and contrasted to those of species with similarcharacteristics. Our results therefore highlight the importance of species-specificstudies analysing population structure.
Horreo, J.L. & Fitze, P.S. (2018) -
During the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM; 20–14 Kya ago), Northern Europe was covered by ice and permafrost and the distribution of many organisms contracted into glacial refugia. After the LGM, species started to colonize areas from which ice and permafrost retracted and Northern Europe was recolonized. The LGM affected past and present distributions of many species. Different mechanisms led to the currently observed distributions and phylogeographic patterns. However, little evidence exists for their importance in determining the currently existing phylogeographic structuring. Here, we compare the post-LGM colonization patterns of four terrestrial reptile species: two lizards (Zootoca vivipara, Lacerta agilis) and two snakes (Vipera berus, Zamenis longissimus). All four species exhibit large natural current distributions in Europe and colonized areas covered by ice and/or permafrost during LGM. The results show that the most important parameters promoting fast and large post-LGM colonisations are: (i) adaptations to cooler temperatures (including the evolution of viviparity), (ii) absence of physical or climatic barriers during expansion from the refugia, and (iii) low competition with other species/subspecies during expansion, i.e. a refugium at the edge of a species distribution that allows first colonization of newly available habitat.
Horreo, J.L. & Fitze, P.S. (2021) -
The demographic trend of a species depends on the dynamics of its local populations, which can be compromised by local or by global phenomena. However, the relevance of local and global phenomena has rarely been investigated simultaneously. Here we tested whether local phenomena compromised a species’ demographic trend using the Eurasian common lizard Zootoca vivipara, the terrestrial reptile exhibiting the widest geographic distribution, as a model species. We analysed the species’ ancient demographic trend using genetic data from its six allopatric genetic clades and tested whether its demographic trend mainly depended on single clades or on global phenomena. Zootoca vivipara’s effective population size increased since 2.3 million years ago and started to increase steeply and continuously from 0.531 Mya. Population growth rate exhibited two maxima, both occurring during global climatic changes and important vegetation changes on the northern hemisphere. Effective population size and growth rate were negatively correlated with global surface temperatures, in line with global parameters driving long-term demographic trends. Zootoca vivipara’s ancient demography was not driven by a single clade, nor by the two clades that colonized huge geographic areas after the last glaciation. The low importance of local phenomena, suggests that the experimentally demonstrated high sensitivity of this species to short-term ecological changes is a response in order to cope with short-term and local changes. This suggests that what affected its long-term demographic trend the most, were not these local changes/responses, but rather the important and prolonged global climatic changes and important vegetation changes on the northern hemisphere, including the opening up of the forest by humans.
Horreo, J.L. & Jiménez-Valverde, A. & Fitze, P.S. (2016) -
While ecological effects on short-term population dynamics are well understood, their effects over millennia are difficult to demonstrate and convincing evidence is scant. Using coalescent methods, we analysed past population dynamics of three lizard species (Psammodromus hispanicus, P. edwardsianus, P. occidentalis) and linked the results with climate change data covering the same temporal horizon (120 000 years). An increase in population size over time was observed in two species, and in P. occidentalis, no change was observed. Temporal changes in temperature seasonality and the maximum temperature of the warmest month were congruent with changes in population dynamics observed for the three species and both variables affected population density, either directly or indirectly (via a life-history trait). These results constitute the first solid link between ecological change and long-term population dynamics. The results moreover suggest that ecological change leaves genetic signatures that can be retrospectively traced, providing evidence that ecological change is a crucial driver of genetic diversity and speciation.
Horreo, J.L. & Jiménez-Valverde, A. & Fitze, P.S. (2021) -
Parity mode (oviparity/viviparity) importantly affects the ecology, morphology, physiology, biogeography and evolution of organisms. The main hypotheses explaining the evolution and maintenance of viviparity are based on bioclimatic predictions and also state that the benefits of viviparity arise during the reproductive period. We identify the main climatic variables discriminating between viviparous and oviparous Eurasian common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) occurrence records during the reproductive period and over the entire year. Analyses based on the climates during the reproductive period show that viviparous clades inhabit sites with less variable temperature and precipitation. On the contrary, analyses based on the annual climates show that viviparous clades inhabit sites with more variable temperatures. Results from models using climates during reproduction are in line with the “selfish-mother hypothesis”, which can explain the success of viviparity, the maintenance of the two reproductive modes, and why viviparous individuals cannot colonize sites inhabited by oviparous ones (and vice versa). They suggest that during the reproductive period viviparity has an adaptive advantage over oviparity in less risky habitats thanks to the selfish behaviour of the mothers. Moreover, the results from both analyses stress that hypotheses about the evolution and maintenance of viviparity need to be tested during the reproductive period.
Horreo, J.L. & Peláez, M.L. & Breedveld, M.C. & Suárez, T. & Urieta, M. & Fitze, P.S. (2019) -
Gene flow is an important factor determining the evolution of a species, since it directly affects population structure and species’ adaptation. Here, we investigated population structure, population history, and migration among populations covering the entire distribution of the geographically isolated South-West European common lizard (Zootoca vivipara louislantzi) using 34 newly developed polymorphic microsatellite markers. The analyses unravelled the presence of isolation by distance, inbreeding, recent bottlenecks, genetic differentiation, and low levels of migration among most populations, suggesting that Z. vivipara louislantzi is threatened. The results point to discontinuous populations and are in line with physical barriers hindering longitudinal migration south to the central Pyrenean cordillera and latitudinal migration in the central Pyrenees. In contrast, evidence for longitudinal migration exists from the lowlands north to the central Pyrenean cordillera and the Cantabrian Mountains. The locations of the populations south to the central Pyrenean cordillera were identified as the first to be affected by global warming; thus, management actions aimed at avoiding population declines should start in this area.
Horreo, J.L. & Peláez, M.L. & Fitze, P.S. (2015) -
Horreo, J.L. & Pelaez, M.L. & Suarez, T. & Breedveld, M.C. & Heulin, B. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Oksanen, T.A. & Fitze, P.S. (2018) -
Aim: During glaciations, the distribution of temperate species inhabiting the Northern Hemisphere generally contracts into southern refugia; and in boreo-alpine species of the Northern Hemisphere, expansion from Northern refugia is the general rule. Little is known about the drivers explaining vast distributions of species inhabiting multiple biogeographic regions (major biogeographic regions defined by the European Environmental Agency). Here we investigate the fine-scale phylogeography and evolutionary history of the Eurasian common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), the terrestrial reptile with the world’s widest and highest latitudinal distribution, that inhabits multiple biogeographic regions. Location: Eurasia. Methods: We generated the largest molecular dataset to date of Z. vivipara, ran phylogenetic analyses, reconstructed its evolutionary history, determined the location of glacial refuges and reconstructed ancestral biogeographic regions. Results: The phylogenetic analyses revealed a complex evolutionary history, driven by expansions and contractions of the distribution due to glacials and interglacials, and the colonization of new biogeographic regions by all lineages of Z. vivipara. Many glacial refugia were detected, most were located close to the southern limit of the Last Glacial Maximum. Two subclades recolonized large areas covered by permafrost during the last glaciation: namely, Western and Northern Europe and North-Eastern Europe and Asia. Main conclusions: In Z. vivipara, most of the glacial refugia were located in the South of their current distribution. Previous studies suggested the existence of Northern refuges, but the species’ inability to overwinter on permafrost and the lack of genetic support suggest that the presence of a refugia in the north of the Alps is unlikely. This species currently inhabits boreo-alpine climates and retracted during previous glaciations into southern refugia, as temperate species. Two clades exhibited enormous geographic expansion that started from two distinct glacial refugia. These phylogeographic patterns were highly congruent with those of Vipera berus. Together they suggest that glacial retraction, the location of the refugia and absence of competition may have promoted the enormous geographic expansion of two clades.
Horreo, J.L. & Peláez, M.L. & Suárez, T. & Fitze, P.S. (2018) -
The European common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) is a widely distributed species across Europe and Asia exhibiting two reproductive modes (oviparity/viviparity), six major lineages and several sublineages. It has been used to tackle a large variety of research questions, nevertheless, few nuclear DNA sequence markers have been developed for this species. Here we developed 79 new nuclear DNA sequence markers using a clonation protocol. These markers were amplified in several oviparous and viviparous specimens including samples of all extant clades, to test the amplification success and their diversity. 49.4% of the markers were polymorphic and of those, 51.3% amplified in all and 94.9% amplified in 5–7 of the extant Z. vivipara clades. These new markers will be very useful for the study of the population structure, population dynamics, and micro/macro evolution of Z. vivipara. Cross-species amplification in four lizard species (Psammodromus edwardsianus, Podarcis muralis, Lacerta bilineata, and Takydromus sexlineatus) was positive in several of the markers, and six makers amplified in all five species. The large genetic distance between P. edwardsianus and Z. vivipara further suggests that these markers may as well be employed in many other species.
Horreo, J.L. & Peláez, M.L. & Suárez, T. & Heulin, B. & Fitze, P.S. (2017) -
Few microsatellite loci exist for the European common lizard, Zootoca vivipara, a common model species in studies of population dynamics, sexual selection, population genetics, parity evolution, and physiology. The existing primers did not amplify in all lineages, and multiplexes were not optimized. A total of 34 new polymorphic microsatellite markers have been developed for this species and tested in 64 specimens belonging to oviparous and viviparous clades (B and D). The microsatellites were combined into seven different multiplexes. Results showed that all but one loci successfully amplified in all samples and both clades. The number of alleles detected per locus ranged 7–22 alleles and the effective number 1.58–7.82. The observed heterozygosity ranged 0.312–0.930, showing that all loci were highly variable. Oviparous and viviparous clades exhibited significant genetic differences (in FST). In addition to these new markers, the seven previously published and widely used microsatellite loci have been multiplexed and tested in oviparous clades. These innovations will allow for timesaving and robust analyses in Zootoca vivipara, boosting evolutionary and population studies and easing paternity analyses.
Horreo, J.L. & Suarez, T. & Fitze, P.S. (2019) -
Complex traits include, among many others, the evolution of eyes, wings, body forms, reproductive modes, human intelligence, social behavior, diseases, and chromosome morphology. Dollo`s law states that the evolution of complex traits is irreversible. However, potential exceptions have been proposed. Here, we investigated whether reticulation, a simple and elegant means by which complex characters may be reacquired, could account for suggested reversals in the evolution of complex characters using two datasets with sufficient genetic coverage and a total of five potential reversals. Our analyses uncovered a potential reversal in the evolution of parity mode and a potential reversal in the evolution of placentotrophy of fish (Cyprinodontiformes) as reticulation events. Moreover, in a reptile that exhibits a potential reversal from viviparity to oviparity (Zootoca vivipara), reticulation provided the most parsimonious explanation for sex chromosome evolution. Therefore, three of the five studied potential reversals were unraveled as reticulation events. This constitutes the first evidence that accounting for reticulation can fundamentally influence the interpretation of the evolution of complex traits, that testing for reticulation is crucial for obtaining robust phylogenies, and that complex ancestral characters may be reacquired through hybridization with a lineage that still exhibits the trait. Hybridization, rather than reappearance of ancestral traits by means of small evolutionary steps, may thus account for suggested exceptions to Dollo`s law. Consequently, ruling out reticulation is required to claim the evolutionary reversal of complex characters and potential exceptions to Dollo`s rule.
Horst, J.T. ter (1960) -
Horst, J.T. ter (1975) -
Horváth, G. & Jiménez-Robles, O. & Martin, J. & López, P. & Riva, I. de la & Herczeg, G. (2020) -
Mechanisms affecting consistent interindividual behavioral variation (i.e., animal personality) are of wide scientific interest. In poikilotherms, ambient temperature is one of the most important environmental factors with a direct link to a variety of fitnessrelated traits. Recent empirical evidence suggests that individual differences in boldness are linked to behavioral thermoregulation strategy in heliothermic species, as individuals are regularly exposed to predators during basking. Here, we tested for links between behavioral thermoregulation strategy, boldness, and individual state in adult males of the high-mountain Carpetan rock lizard (Iberolacerta cyreni). Principal component analysis revealed the following latent links in our data: (i) a positive relationship of activity with relative limb length and color brightness (PC1, 23% variation explained), (ii) a negative relationship of thermoregulatory precision with parasite load and risk-taking (PC2, 20.98% variation explained), and (iii) a negative relationship between preferred body temperature and relative limb length (PC3, 19.23% variation explained). We conclude that differences in boldness and behavioral thermoregulatory strategy could be explained by both stable and labile state variables. The moderate link between behavioral thermoregulatory strategy and risk-taking personality in our system is plausibly the result of differences in reproductive state of individuals or variation in ecological conditions during the breeding season.
Horvath, G. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2014) -
Horváth, G. & Martin Rueda, J. & Herczeg, G. (2021) -
Vertebral malformations have been reported previously from a wide range of reptile taxa. Kyphosis refers to an abnormally excessive convex curvature of the spine in the thoracic and sacral regions, while if the deviation affects the lateral plane of the spinal column, the condition is known as scoliosis. In some cases, these two types of malformation can be combined in the same animal, known as kyphoscoliosis (Garín-Barrio et al., 2011). It appears that kyphosis mainly affects species adapted to aquatic environments (e.g. turtles and crocodiles; Tucker, 1997; Boede & Sogbe, 2000; Tucker et al., 2007), while scoliosis is more common in terrestrial species (snakes and lizards; Grogan, 1976; Simbotwe, 1983; Frutos et al., 2006). Reports of kyphosis (and kyphoscoliosis) from wild lizard populations have increased lately (e.g. Liolaemus koslowskyi (Iguandiae) Avila et al. (2013); Sceloporus torquatus (Phrynosomatidae) Pérez-Delgadillo et al. (2015); Norops sericeus (Dactyloidae) Domínguez-De la Riva and Carbajal-Márquez (2016); Sceloporus vandenburgianus (Phrynosomatidae) Valdez-Villavicencio et al., (2016); Stenocercus guentheri (Tropiduridae) Ramírez-Jaramillo, (2018); Marisora brachypoda (Scinidae) Arrivillaga & Brown,(2019).
Horváth, G. & Martin, J. & López, P. (2016) -
Behavioural consistency is expected to affect fitness in a negative way intuitively by constraining the individual behavioural repertoire. In contrast to this, consistency both within (animal personality) and across behaviours (behavioural syndrome) is observed in a wide variety of taxa. Hence, one of the main goals in behavioural ecology is to understand the evolutionary and developmental factors underlying consistent between-individual differences in behaviour. One possibility is that individual state and behaviour are linked, and thus state-behaviour feedback loops can explain the emergence of behavioural consistency. Stable state variables (i.e. life-history traits) are known to create long- lasting behavioural strategies, however, recently many research focused on the role of labile state variables in the emergence of stable behavioural differences. For instance, body condition is expected to have a strong effect on individual behavioural strategies in animals. It is known that the vitamin D component in the femoral secretion of male Carpetan rock-lizards (Iberolacerta cyreni) act as an honest sexual signal, since only males with better body condition can afford secreting vitamin D at a high rate. Hence, vitamin D and available energy are both expected to affect their behavioural consistency. In our present work, we studied the effects of food and vitamin D manipulation on the activity and risk-taking of 60 male I. cyreni during the mating season of 2014. We applied a full factorial experimental design with high vs. low food treatments and vitamin D supplementation vs. placebo treatments. We discuss the treatment effects on lizard behaviour based on eight (activity) and seven (risk-taking) repeated assays. We did not find any effect of the treatments on activity, however, our results suggests that vitamin D combined with insufficient energy intake results higher risk-taking in males compared to other treatment groups.
Horváth, G. & Martin, J. & López, P. & Garamszegi, L.Z. & Bertok, P. & Herczeg, G. (2016) -
Identifying evolutionary and developmental mechanisms underlying consistent between-individual differences in behaviour is the main goal in ‘animal personality studies’. Here, we explored whether activity and risk-taking varied consistently between individuals and correlated to various – potentially fitness linked – male traits in Carpetan rock lizards (Iberolacerta cyreni). Lizards showed significant consistency within both behaviours, implying the presence of activity and risk-taking personalities. However, there were no correlation between activity and risk-taking, neither on the between- nor on the within-individual levels, implying the absence of a behavioural syndrome. We found a strong link between the intensity of blood parasite (Haemogregarinidae) infection and risk-taking: lizards with higher infection intensity took more risk. While we cannot distinguish cause from causative in the parasite intensity – risk-taking correlation – our results are in line with the asset protection hypothesis predicting that individuals with lower future reproductive value should focus on the current reproductive event and take higher risk.
Horváth, G. & Martín, J. & López, P. & Garamszegi, L.Z. & Herczeg, G. (2017) -
It has been proposed recently that labile state variables (e.g. energy reserves) can have a key role in the development and maintenance of consistent between-individual behavioural variation (i.e. animal personality) within population. In male Carpetan rock lizards (Iberolacerta cyreni), the provitamin D3 component of femoral gland secretion acts as an honest signal in sexual communication. Further, vitamin D3 has many important metabolic functions in reptiles. Therefore, by employing a factorial experiment with food (high vs. low) and vitamin D3 (supplemented vs. control) treatments in wild-caught reproductive male I. cyreni, we tested whether changing labile components of individual state affected (i) behavioural consistency (the degree of between-individual difference) and (ii) behavioural type (mean behaviour). Animal personality in activity was present in all treatments; however, personality was present only in the high food × vitamin D3 supplementation treatment in shelter use and it was present in all but the low food × placebo treatment in risk taking. Lizards (i) decreased activity in the high food treatment, (ii) increased shelter use in the vitamin D3 supplementation treatment and (iii) increased risk taking in the low food × vitamin D3 supplementation treatment. We conclude that short-term changes in individual state affect both behavioural consistency and behavioural type of reproductive male I. cyreni. Unfavourable conditions resulted in decreased behavioural consistency, while high-state individuals became less active in general. Individuals with high specific (vitamin D3) but low general (energy reserves) state took higher risk. We discuss several evolutionary explanations for the reported patterns. Significance statement The evolutionary and developmental mechanisms resulting in consistent between-individual behavioural differences across time and situations (i.e. animal personality) are of high scientific interest. It has been recently proposed that links between individual state (e.g. how well-fed the individual is) and behaviour can maintain such between-individual differences even on an evolutionarily timescale. However, whether short-term state changes are able to affect animal personality in adults is an open question. In a manipulative experiment, we found that the amount of food and vitamin D3 (known to increase physiological quality and attractiveness of male Carpetan rock lizards, I. cyreni) affected the expression of animal personality and the actual behavioural types of reproductive male Carpetan rock lizards. Therefore, we provide evidence that short-term environmental variation does induce or suppress animal personality, and it also affects individual behaviour.
Horváth, G. & Martin, J. & López, P. & Herczeg, G. (2020) -
Aggression is one of the most frequently studied behavioural traits across a wide range of taxa; however, most studies evaluate aggressive behaviour in a social context, in which aggressive interactions between conspecifics are motivated by resource control (offensive or social aggression). However, in an antipredator context, the primary role of aggression is defence (defensive or antipredator aggression). Although the neuroendocrinology of antipredator aggression is often studied in domesticated and laboratory animals, how environment and individual state affect this behavioural trait in the wild is largely unknown. Here, by conducting a manipulative experiment, we tested whether (i) consistent between-individual differences (i.e. animal personality) are present in antipredator aggression in adult male Carpetan rock lizards (Iberolacerta cyreni) and (ii) short-term environmental changes (presence vs. absence of predator cues) and differences in individual state (body length, head size, hind limb length) affect individual mean behaviour (i.e. behavioural type). We found moderate-high repeatability in antipredator aggression (willingness to bite a human), indicating the presence of animal personality in this behavioural trait. Lizards were on average more defensive in the presence of predator cues; furthermore, short-legged males showed higher antipredator aggression than long-legged males in the presence of predator cues, probably as an attempt to balance their decreased escape speed. Larger (~ older) males were more defensive than smaller ones, probably due to their increased fighting ability. We conclude that antipredator aggression is an important part of an individual’s behavioural repertoire and its expression is driven by both environmental situation and individual state.
Horváth, G. & Mészáros, B. & Urszán, T. & Herczeg, G. (2016) -
The biological validity of consistent between-individual behavioural differences (i.e. animal personality) and correlations between different behaviours (i.e. behavioural syndrome) became widely accepted during the last decade and ‘personality research’ is now one of the fastest growing fields of behavioural ecology. However, our understanding on how behavioural consistency emerges and evolves is still incomplete. One interesting question is how unstable state variables (e.g. energy reserves) could play a role in the emergence of stable behavioural differences? One solution is that feedback loops act between the behaviour and the underlying state variable stabilizing the system. The amount of available energy has a key role driving behavioural decisions and shaping behavioural strategies. Moreover, in ectotherms, body temperature is a vital factor in maintaining optimal metabolic rate and physiological performance. Here, we studied how food and body temperature affected male European green lizards’ (Lacerta viridis) behaviour. We used 40 adult males from a Hungarian population during the mating season (April-May) of 2014. We applied a full factorial experimental design with high vs. low food treatments and short vs. long available basking periods. We assessed activity and risk-taking three times for every lizard. We focused on two components of individual behavioural variation: individual mean behaviour and within-individual behavioural variation. We also tested for the presence of animal personality and behavioural syndrome in the treatment groups. Lizards with limited basking time took higher risk and expressed their activity with lower variation. Lizards in all treatment groups showed activity and risk-taking personalities. We found support for an activity – risk-taking behavioural syndrome only in the low food treatment. Our findings show that individual state indeed affects behavioural strategies in this species, from the expression of single behaviours to the emergence of a correlation between functionally different behaviours.
Horváth, G. & Mészáros, B. & Urszán, T., Bajer, K. & O. Molnár (2017) -
Understanding the background mechanisms affecting the emergence and maintenance of consistent between-individual variation within population in single (animal personality) or across multiple (behavioural syndrome) behaviours has key importance. State-dependence theory suggests that behaviour is ‘anchored’ to individual state (e.g. body condition, gender, age) and behavioural consistency emerges through behavioural-state feedbacks. A number of relevant state variables are labile (e.g. body condition, physiological performance) and expected to be affected by short-term environmental change. Yet, whether short-term environmental shifts affect behavioural consistency during adulthood remains questionable. Here, by employing a full-factorial laboratory experiment, we explored if quantity of food (low vs. high) and time available for thermoregulation (3h vs. 10h per day) had an effect on activity and risk-taking of reproductive adult male European green lizards (Lacerta viridis). We focussed on different components of behavioural variation: (i) strength of behavioural consistency (repeatability for animal personality; between-individual correlation for behavioural syndrome), (ii) behavioural type (individual mean behaviour) and (iii) behavioural predictability (within-individual behavioural variation). Activity was repeatable in all treatments. Risk-taking was repeatable only in the low basking treatments. We found significant between-individual correlation only in the low food × long basking time group. The treatments did not affect behavioural type, but affected behavioural predictability. Activity predictability was higher in the short basking treatment, where it also decreased with size (≈ age). Risk-taking predictability in the short basking treatment increased with size under food limitation, but decreased when food supply was high. We conclude that short-term environmental change can alter various components of behavioural consistency. The effect could be detected in the presence/absence patterns of animal personality and behavioural syndrome and the level of individual behavioural predictability, but not in behavioural type.
Horváthová, T. & Baláz, M. & Jandzik, D. (2013) -
The common lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823), shows high variation in life histories and morphology across its range, which comprises almost the entire Palearctic region. However, this variation is not congruent with the species phylogeny. This suggests an important role of the environment in shaping the variation in morphology and life histories of this species. As most data on life histories originate from only a small number of populations and do not cover the species` geographic range and phylogenetic diversity, to fill a gap and provide more information for future comparative studies we investigated reproduction and morphology in two montane populations from Slovakia, central Europe. This region is characterized by taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity and both montane and lowland ecological forms of the common lizard occur here. The common lizards from the Slovak populations are sexually dimorphic, with females having larger body and abdomen lengths and males having larger heads and longer legs. Female common lizards start to reproduce at a relatively large size compared to most other populations. This is consistent with a relatively short activity season, which has been shown to be the main factor driving variation in body size in the common lizard. Clutch size was also relatively high and positively correlated with body size, abdomen size and head size. One third of all females attaining the size of the smallest gravid female showed no signs of reproductive activity despite mating opportunities, suggesting that not all females reproduce annually in this population.
Horváthová, T. & Cooney, C.R. & Fitze, P.S. & Oksanen, T.A. & Jelić, D. & Ghira, I. & Uller, T. & Jandzik, D. (2013) -
Understanding the factors that drive geographic variation in life history is an important challenge in evolutionary ecology. Here, we analyze what predicts geographic variation in life-history traits of the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara, which has the globally largest distribution range of all terrestrial reptile species. Variation in body size was predicted by differences in the length of activity season, while we found no effects of environmental temperature per se. Females experiencing relatively short activity season mature at a larger size and remain larger on average than females in populations with relatively long activity seasons. Interpopulation variation in fecundity was largely explained by mean body size of females and reproductive mode, with viviparous populations having larger clutch size than oviparous populations. Finally, body size-fecundity relationship differs between viviparous and oviparous populations, with relatively lower reproductive investment for a given body size in oviparous populations. While the phylogenetic signal was weak overall, the patterns of variation showed spatial effects, perhaps reflecting genetic divergence or geographic variation in additional biotic and abiotic factors. Our findings emphasize that time constraints imposed by the environment rather than ambient temperature play a major role in shaping life histories in the common lizard. This might be attributed to the fact that lizards can attain their preferred body temperature via behavioral thermoregulation across different thermal environments. Length of activity season, defining the maximum time available for lizards to maintain optimal performance, is thus the main environmental factor constraining growth rate and annual rates of mortality. Our results suggest that this factor may partly explain variation in the extent to which different taxa follow ecogeographic rules.
Hos, G. (2017) -
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S. (2022) -
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. (2012) -
In this study an attempt has been done to sample various populations of Mesalina watsonana throughout the range of dispersion in Iran. The intraspecific relationship of different populations was checked according to the statistical methods. With regards to different color patterns of the species on the Iranian Plateau, it was assumed that the species has more variability, but after collecting, surveying and analyzing the data, it was been concluded that all of the observed differences are related to the environmental conditions and factors. The analysis of morphological data specially in scalation suggests that all populations of Mesalina watsonana in Iran can be divided into two new taxa: one is related to the Zagros foothills and another being related to the east of Iran. In this study we couldn’t prepare samples from eastern edge of the range of distribution of Mesalina watsonana from Afghanistan and Pakistan. Also I use molecular method with available samples of Mesalina watsonana from some parts of Iran. Samples were amplified by Cyt b gene and were sequenced, then was drawn a phylogenetic tree by Maximum Parsimony (MP) with PAUP 4.0 software. According to the MP tree, Mesalina watsonana populatioons on the Iranian Plateau show 5 differentioated clades presumably.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Cavalcanti, M.J. (2022) -
The aim of this study is to detect areas of endemism in lizards in Iran. This is the first study of its kind focusing on this subject. Areas of endemism for two families of lizards (Lacertidae and Gekkonidae) that have the highest number of endemic species than other lizard families in Iran were identified by Parsimony Analysis of Endemicity (PAE). Distribution data were collected from previous studies on the Iranian lizards and also from the recent literature on the descriptions of new endemic species. A total of 81 species of lizards were available for analysis. The study area was divided into a 2° × 2° grid of 63 Operational Geographic Units (OGUs). PAE was applied to the data matrix to detect areas of endemism and detected eight areas of endemism in southwestern Iran and near the Persian Gulf. Southern Iran is the main region where most species from Arabia came into Iran and were stopped in their dispersal. Two grids in southern and northeastern Iran were recognized as the areas with the highest density of species in the studied families. Lacertidae and Gekkonidae did not have a shared endemic species in the region (cells 59 and 60) but the area of endemism identified by PAE in the Persian Gulf region suggests that exchange between Iranian and Arabian herpetofauna was very high during interglacial periods. The distribution pattern of the endemic species of these families is concentrated in the region of the Alborz and the Zagros Mountains, but the single area of endemism in southern Iran has an important role in the historical biogeography of the Iranian herpetofauna. During interglacial periods, the Persian Gulf acted as a corridor between the herpetofauna of the two sides and this suggests the importance of this area of endemism for the Gekkonidae family. Also, the OGUs with the highest density of species are located around the country and, the lowest density is in the Central Plateau. PAE detected eight areas of endemism in southwestern Iran, but according to the number of species per units, two OGUs can be identified as high density in northeastern and southern Iran.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Marmol Marin, G.M.D. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2015) -
In this study we review the species of lizards in the genus Mesalina (Lacertidae) and present a new key for their identification. We also obtained five photos of each species from the British Museum of Natural History that illustrate the dorsal, lateral (right and left), and ventral views of the head and the femoral pores of each species. The papers with the original descriptions of each species were reviewed and used in preparation of the key. Some remarks about the habitat, natural history, updated distribution map and previous taxonomic changes are explained.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Mohammadpour, A. & Eskandarzadeh, N. (2012) -
During recent herpetological field work (june 2012) a new locality was found for Iranolacerta brandtii brandtii (DE FILIPPI, 1863) 40 km north of Varzeghan, in the East Azerbaijan province of Iran. Two specimens were collected and deposited in the Madani University Zoological Collection under numbers A49 and A50. A description is given on the local habitat, as well as 20 metric and meristic characters of the two specimens.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Morvari, S. (2024) -
Sexual dimorphism stands out as a significant evolutionary outcome of sexual selection between males and females across various species. Reptiles also exhibit distinct morphological differences between males and females. For instance, the genus Darevskia, exemplified by Darevskia schaekeli in this study, displays sexual dimorphism. Examination of morphological traits in this species revealed that males possess greater head length, trunk length, forelimb and hindlimb length, as well as a higher number of femoral pores compared to females. All these morphological distinctions, favoring males, are pivotal in their mating and reproductive processes. In this species, the mating process commences with the male biting the female’s head. Subsequently, he restrains her by gripping her hindlimbs and positions their cloacal edges to rotate his body in front of hers. Greater body length and hind limb size are crucial for this maneuver. During the mating season (spring), males exhibit a more diverse and prominent dorsal and lateral color pattern compared to females, suggesting a form of sexual selection within this species.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Nabizadeh, H. & Grismer, L.L. (2022) -
Ecological pressure is the major driver of morphological adaptation. Different habitat preferences even among closely related spe cies, often result in the evolution of different body shapes. In the present study, we employed geometric morphometric and principal component analyses (PCA) to compare body shape and head plate morphology among seven species in the genus Darevskia Arribas, 1999 from the Elburz Mountains, Iran that occur in either rocky or forested habitats. The geometric morphometric analysis and the PCA of meristic characters recovered a wide degree of overlap between the rock and forest dwelling species. The PCA of the morphometric characters showed wide separation among the rock and forest dwelling species as well as among some of the rock dwelling species. These results strongly suggest that body shape is correlated with the habitat type whereas head plate morphology and scale meristics are not. Furthermore, the results suggest that the rock dwelling species may be occupying and navigating their microhabitat in different ways. Ecological observations are needed to test this hypothesis.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Oraei, H. & Khosravani, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2013) -
During a field survey in the Sistan region of Iran in October 2011, habitat of Eremias acutirostris was surveyed and four specimens of the species were collected. We report a locality situated along the road from Zabol to Doost Mohammad, near the town of Bonjar. The fragile habitat, consist of immobile sand dunes, is situated in proximity to an industrial zone, placing this remnant population under threat of pollution and other anthropogenic edge effects. We call the Zabol Environmental Protection Agency to act and insure the species’ future in Iran.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar Pouyani, E. (2013) -
Eremias lalezharica MORAVEC, 1994 was until recently known only from its terra typica near Lalehzar village in the Lalehzar Mountains, in the center of Kerman province, Iran. During a recent survey, a new locality was found for Eremias lalezharica on the road from Jiroft to Darb-e Behesht, in the Babgorgi region, 100 km to the south-east of the terra typica along the Lalehzar Mountains, with coordinates 29º 05’ N and 57º 32’ E, and an elevation of 2890 m (8670 ft). This new locality is also mountainous with relatively rich vegetation.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar Pouyani, E. & Keyvanloo Shahrestanaki, A. & Yousefi, M. & Zarrintab, M. (2012) -
In Iran Eremias grammica is a critically endangered lacertid lizard only known from a single population in the east of Khorasan Razavi province. During a new survey of this area (September 2011) it has become clear that this population of Eremias grammica no longer exists, due to habitat destruction. However, a new population of Eremias grammica was found in similar sand dunes around Jangal city, and habitat protection is suggested.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2013) -
Eremias intermedia and Eremias lineolata are two species from the genus Eremias that are found in the Sarakhs region (at the border of Iran and Turkmenistan) (N: 36º 19’ 32.4” ; E: 61º 08’ 35.4”; altitude: 330 m). That particular region has very unfavorable conditions for lizards. Aridity and Human activity (agriculture) affected on their habitat. A water channel was being constructed to carry water to the city and for this reason, machines were employed which destroyed the sand dunes.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Aliabadian, M. (2016) -
Eremias strauchi strauchi and Eremias strauchi kopetdaghica are genetically and morphologically distinct and are distributed allopatrically in northeastern and northwestern Iran. E. s. strauchi is distinguishable by having green spots on lateral parts of the body, while E. s. kopetdaghica is characterized by white spots and irregular black dots on lateral parts of the body. Recent molecular studies have suggested that these are two distinct species, but other types of analyses leave their classification unclear. In this study, we evaluated their taxonomic status using additional data (including ecological niches) to confirm the hypothesis that they are two species. All known records of their occurrence were employed to predict and evaluate the suitable areas where they may be expected to be found in Iran. We then performed niche similarity tests (niche identity and background tests) and point-based analyses to compare their ecological niches and explain ecological differentiation. Niche models of E. s. strauchi and E. s. kopetdaghica had good results and powerful performance based on high area under the curve (AUC) values [E. s. strauchi = 0.992, standard deviation (SD) = ± 0.008; E. s. kopetdaghica = 0.978, SD = ± 0.032]. Ecological differentiation has been found across the entire range, indicating that ecological differentiation had an important role in species differentiation. Environmental conditions for the species diverged along environmental variables, as precipitation of coldest quarter for the “Strauch” subspecies and precipitation of warmest quarter for the “Kopet dagh” subspecies were most important in determining habitat suitability, respectively. These two factors are important in niche differentiation between the two species and influenced their genetic divergence. Finally, our results confirmed the niche differentiation between E. s. strauchi and E. s. kopetdaghica and added new insights into the taxonomic distinction between E. s. strauchi and E. s. kopetdaghica.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutas, Y. & Avci, A. & Wink, M. (2019) -
The aim of this study was to predict suitable habitat for different clades of Apathya cappadocica in the Middle East. An additional goal was to calculate the ecological niche space of all lineages to determine the hypothesized degree of niche overlap and niche differentiation between these clades in Iran, Turkey, Iraq and Syria. All presence records of Apathya taxa in the study area were obtained and georeferenced from fieldwork, literature, and museums. All presence points were determined using 1 × 1 km grids covering the study countries. Environmental data such as bioclimate variables were also gathered at this resolution. Species distribution modeling was carried out using MaxEnt to determine current suitable regions for each lineage, and then the outputs were compared to find the degree of niche overlap between them. Our results found that all of the predicted models have high accuracy and some overlap with each other, especially for A. c. schmidtlerorum, but other lineages have distinctive models. Mean temperature of coldest quarter, isothermality, annual precipitation, and precipitation of coldest quarter were the highest contributed variables for A. c. cappadocica, A. c. wolteri, A. c. schmidtlerorum, A. c. urmiana, and A. c. muhtari, respectively. Ecological niche differentiation was found between all lineages, but A. c. schmidtlerorum shows niche similarity with other subspecies. Therefore, as previously recommended, A. c. schmidtlerorum can be synonymized with A. c. muhtari. Finally, our ecological results confirmed the specific status of all genetic lineages except for A. c. schmidtlerorum, consistent with the recommendation from a previous molecular study.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2013) -
Over three years (2009-2012), several habitats of Mesalina watsonana were investigated and recorded with GPS. 100 locations were recorded in four major areas: east and the northeast of Iran, central part of the Iranian Plateau, southern Iran, and the east slopes of the Zagros Mountains in Qom Province. According to this study, the species is mainly concentrated in foothills, and most locations in this study are situated between an altitude of 500-1500 m.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Arab, M. (2012) -
During fieldwork on 15 August 2011 in Golestan province, several specimens of Darevskia steineri (EISELT, 1995) were found in the vicinity of Loveh Waterfall at midday. The locality of D. steineri is limited around the Loveh waterfall. In this survey, no specimen of D. steineri was observed in other parts near to the waterfall, but some reptiles such as Darevskia chlorogaster and Gloydius halys were found as sympatric with D. steineri. The unique habitat of D. steineri is now in the risk of destruction due to human activity and tourism affects as well as the constructing of a gas pipe which has traversed the habitat to the west into Semnan province.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Masroor, R. & Šmíd, J. (2013) -
The Persian Long-tailed Desert Lizard, Mesalina watsonana, is one of the most common and most widely distributed lizards on the Iranian Plateau extending from Iran to Pakistan and Afghanistan. The species is frequently encountered in various types of habitats. We collected over 600 distributional records from available literature, museum collections, and our own field work and used bioclimatic and land cover characteristics to develop a model of potential distribution for M. watsonana. According to the model, the most important factors limiting the distribution of M. watsonana are: precipitation in wettest quarter exceeding 250–300 mm, precipitation in coldest quarter lower than 40 mm and exceeding 250 mm, altitudes above 2500 m and slopes steeper than 10.5°. The model suggests that most of the Iranian Plateau is suitable for the species except for some isolated areas such as the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut deserts in Iran, Helmand basin in Afghanistan, the Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan, the western Chagai-Kharan deserts of Pakistani Balochistan, and Thar and Cholistan deserts in eastern Pakistan. The most important factor in these regions appears to be the extremely low rainfall during coldest quarter of the year. The outer boundary of the distribution of M. watsonana follows important biogeographic barriers that are also clearly delimited by climatic conditions.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Sadat Hosseinzadeh, M. (2012) -
Field survey was conducted to the Harsin region in June 2011. The known Acanthodactylus boskianus habitat, 2 km west of Harsin, is during recent years destroyed by human activity. During 1 day of field work in this region, only one specimen of Acanthodactylus boskianus was found in a hill that remained intact from agricultural activity. The Acanthodactylus boskianus habitat consists of vegetation, with Astragalus as a key species, providing shelter from enemies. New specimens of the species were found on the grounds of a meteorological station on the other side of the road, where the lizards were not affected by the activities of the farmers. We must suggest the Department of Environment to protect the lizards in this region by controlling the remaining habitat around the meteorological station.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2013) -
During extensive fieldwork surveys from August 2009 to September 2011, 60 specimens of Mesalina watsonana were collected from 10 localities representing 3 population groups in Iran. Owing to clear sexual dimorphism, a total of 39 males were selected and examined for various meristic and morphological characters. Statistical analyses (multivariate analyses such as principal component analysis, canonical variate analysis, and cluster analysis) were used to compare morphological variations among specimens from these 3 population groups in Iran. These groups were separated geographically, apparently due to barriers such as Dasht-e-Kavir and Dasht-e-Lut. According to the multivariate analyses, Mesalina watsonana can be divided into 2 major morphological groups in Iran. The Zagrosgroup is related to 2 others; the southern and eastern groups clearly separate and show a break between themselves.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Arab, M. (2013) -
During fieldwork on 15 August 2011 in Golestan province, several specimens of Darevskia steineri (Eiselt, 1995) were found at midday in the vicinity of the Loveh Waterfall. The locality of Darevskia steineri is limited to the area around the Loveh waterfall. During this survey, no specimens of D. steineri could be found in other parts near to the waterfall, but some reptiles such as Darevskia chlorogaster and Gloydius halys were found as sympatric with D. steineri. The unique habitat of D. steineri is now at the risk of destruction due to human activities as well as tourism effects. In addition, the habitat is affected by a gas pipeline that runs through the area west to the province of Semnan.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Sajed, H. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2013) -
We surveyed for Lacerta media in six regions in Iran to evaluate ist current occurrence and available habitat. This species prefers to live along rivers in close proximity to gardens, making it vulnerable to habitat loss and exploitation.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Yousefi, M. (2016) -
In north Khorasan province, Iran, we compared the effectiveness of two types of traps for collecting reptiles: funnel traps and pitfall traps. Three stations were monitored over three 10-day periods and in total 544 individuals (including 200 re-captures) belonging to 5 species and 4 families of lizards (Lacertidae) were collected. Funnel traps with 280 captures were more efficient than pitfall traps with 264 captures, but the differences between the two traps are not significant. Three species were captured most often in the three different stations respectively: station 1, Bunopus crassicauda (22% relative frequency); station 2, Eremias fasciata (29% relative frequency); and station 3, Trapelus agilis (32% relative frequency). Shannon species richness indices were higher for pitfall than funnel traps (i.e., 1.45 vs. 1.40), but the difference was not significant. Pitfall traps were better for capturing species that search widely for food, while the funnel traps preferentially captured species that climb plants, such as Trapelus agilis. We recommend using both types of trap to capture the various types of species in any one region.
Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Yousefi, M. & Rastegar Pouyani, E. & Khani, A. (2013) -
Hotz, H. (1973) -
Houba, J. (1951) -
Houba, J. (1957) -
Houba, J. (1958) -
House, S.M. & Spellerberg, I.F. (1980) -
House, S.M. & Spellerberg, I.F. (1983) -
(1) The sand lizard (Lacerta agilis L.) is one of six reptile species found in Britain. Populations of this species have declined in number over the last two decades and as a result it is now a protected species and is listed in schedule five of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. (2) With the aim of determining site indicators for the conservation of this lizard species, an ecological analysis of the lizard habitat was undertaken at six study sites in southern England. (3) Estimates were made of the lizard population density at each of the six study sites. A detailed analysis of the habitat was based on data collected within a 2 x 2 m quadrat centred around each lizard seen. Data collected included aspect, slope, exposure, percentage cover of each plant species, nature of any interfaces between vegetation types, and structural complexity of the vegetation. (4) Where variations occurred throughout the habitat, L. agilis was found to be associated with long-standing heath communities and their derivatives or vegetation similar in structure and morphology, such as mixed grass species interdispersed with shrubs and open ground. Where habitats were becoming overgrown with shrubs or where there was tree encroachment, L. agilis was found to be associated with areas having a more open canopy although the lizards made frequent use of the edges of the dense, closed vegetation. Boundaries between vegetation types (interfaces) were found to be an important constituent of the L. agilis habitat and were associated with the thermo-regulatory and foraging behaviour of the lizards. Plant species richness bore no relationship to the selected habitat whereas small scale structural diversity was found to be an important component of the lizard`s habitat. (5) Detailed recommendations are suggested for L. agilis habitat assessment, conservation and management.
House, S.M. Taylor, P.J. & Spellerberg, I.F. (1980) -
During the period May to August 1978, individuals of both Lacerta agilis and Lacerta vivipara were observed in a specially constructed out-door vivarium. The daily patterns of behaviour of the two species were recorded along with surface and air temperatures. Daily activity of both species followed a similar basic pattern but was modified by variations in the local weather. Adults of L. vivipara reached a thermal preferendum more quickly and had a longer daily activity period than adults of L. agilis. The larger L. agilis can increase its period of activity by making use of different thermal conditions in a diverse habitat with varied vegetation structure under conditions of high solar radiation. The status of viable populations of L. agilis could be maintained or enhanced by management aimed at modifying the microenvironment of the lizard`s habitat.
Hout, C.G.M.J. van (1976) -
Howard, C.J. (1980) -
Howard, C.J. (1995) -
Howard. C.J. (1985) -
Howell, K. & Msuya, C.A. & Ngalason, W. & Niagate, B. & Wagner, P. & Wilms, T. & Jumaily, M.M. & Sindaco, R. & Baha el Din, S. (2021) -
Howell, K.M. (1982) -
Hrabowski, H. (1926) -
Hraoui-Bloquet, S. (1981) -
Hraoui-Bloquet, S. (1985) -
L`étude histologique du tractus urogénital des mâles de Lacerta laevis à haute altitude nous a permis de mettre en évidence les caractères suivants: - Les animaux sont adultes après leur première hibernation, soit à l`âge de 8-10 mois. - L`hibernation dure environ 4 à 5 mois. - Tous les mâles sont au repos sexuel pour une courte durée durant les mois les plus chauds de l`année, à partir de la deuxième quinzaine de juillet jusqu`à la fin du mois d`août. - La spermiogenèse est très active en automne, depuis le début d`octobre jusqu`à l`entrée en hibernation, et au printemps après la sortie de l`hibernation. Elle se ralentit en juin et s`arrête à la fin de la première quinzaine de juillet. - Les caractères sexuels secondaires (épididyme et segment, sexuel du rein) sont développés en automne et au printemps, et présentent une activité secrétoire. Ils sont en régression en été pour une courte durée.
Hraoui-Bloquet, S. (1987) -
Le cycle sexuel des femelles de Lacerta laevis à 1800 m d`alt. (Mont-Liban) à été étudié chez 82 specimens adultes. La longueur du corps, mesurée de l`extrémité du museau à la fente cloacale varie entre 55 et 75 mm. 3 à 4 pontes ont été observées pendant la saison de reproduction. Les femelles sortent de l`hibernation en mars. La vitellogenèse commence au début de novembre, mais les accouplements ont lieu au printemps, une ou deux semaines avant chacune des ovulations successives. Le nombre d`oeufs varie entre 4 et 8. Les jeunes nouvellement éclos ont été observés vers le début de juillet.
Hraoui-Bloquet, S. (1988) -
Le cycle de reproduction des femelles de Lacerta Laevis de plaine (Jounieh) a ete etudie chez 80 femelles adultes. Des follicules en vitellogenese sont observes des le debut de decembre. Les premieres femelles gravides sont observees des le debut du mois de mars et les dernieres le 13 aout. Certains individus peuvent fournir 4 pontes successives. Le nombre d` oeufs par ponte varie entre 3 et 8. Les premiers jeunes eclos sont observes a partir du debut de Juin. Un accouplement est necessaire avant chaque ovulation.
Hraoui-Bloquet, S. & Bloquet, G. (1988) -
Une étude comparative du cycle sexuel de deux populations d`un Lacertidae du Liban, Lacerta laevis vivant l`une en montagne, l`autre sur la côte montre: La spermiogenèse devient très active à partir de la deuxième quinzaine d`octobre pour la population de la côte. Elle apparait 2 à 4 semaines plus tard que dans la population de la montagne. Elle dure 2 à 4 semaines de plus. L`involution des tubes séminifères se fait dès le début d`août pour la population côtière, 2 à 4 semaines plus tard que pour la population de la montagne. L`hypertrophie des caractères sexuels secondaires de la population côtière s`étend du 15 novembre jusqu`à la fin de juillet. Elle apparait 2 semaines après celle de la montagne et reste 1 mois de plus.
Hraoui-Bloquet, S. & Sadek, R. & Lahoud-Hokayem, M. & Hakim-Saade, J. (2007) -
Hraoui-Bloquet, S. & Sadek, R.A. & Sabeh, M.A. (1999) -
Some important differences were observed in the reproductive cycles, which are seasonal and are O the mixed type, in the two sympatric lizards Lacerta media and L. laevis. In Lacerta media, spermatocytogenesis begins at the end of summer. Spermiogenesis and mating occur in spring, after ibernation, which lasts four to five montns. Secondary sexual characters (epididymis and sexual segment of kidney) also develop in spring. A period of sexual inactivity is observed during the warmest months of the year uly and August). In Lacerta laevis, males undergo a period of sexual inactivity from mid-July to end- August. Spermiogenesis is very active in the autumn from the beginning of October, start of ibernation, and in the spring following post-hibernation activity. Secondary sexual characters showing secretory activity are well developed in both autumn and spring. Mating occurs in spring.
Hraoui-Bloquet, S. & Sadek, R.A. & Sindaco, R. & Venchi, A. (2002) -
This paper reports more than 400 original data on the Lebanese herpetofauna (covering 5 amphibians and 44 reptiles), deriving from museum collections and recent field observations. The most interesting data concern: (a) Cyrtopodion amictopholis, a species known only from Mt. Hermon, reported for the first time from Mt. Lebanon Range; (b) Lacerta fraasi, previously con- sidered endemic to the Mount Lebanon Range, also recorded from Antilebanon; (c) the occur- rence of Macrovipera lebetina is confirmed with certainty from two localities in the north. New records are given for many species known in Lebanon only on the basis of very few and often old reports.
Hu, J.-G. & Peng, L.-F. & Tang, X.-S. & Huang, S. (2019) -
The complete mitochondrial genome sequence of Takydromus septentrionalis was determined by shotgun sequencing. The total length of mitogenome is 18,304 bp, and contains 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 ribosome RNA genes, and 2 control regions. Most of the genes of T. septentrionalis were distributed on the H-strand, except for the ND6 subunit gene and eight tRNA genes which were encoded on the L-strand. The phylogenetic tree of T. septentrionalis and 8 other closely related species was reconstructed. The phylogenetic analyses based on these mitogenomes presented here will be useful for further insights on the evolutionary relationships of Takydromus.
Hu, Q. & Jie, Y. (1999) -
Objective: To study the karyotype and G banding pattern of Takydromus sexlineatus meridionalis Gunther. Methods: making specimen slides by general drying in the air, staining the specimen slides with 10% Giemsa solution, and making the G banding pattern by digesting with trypsin. Results: Its karyotpye is 38,ZZ(ZW), and the karyotypeic formula is 2n=16T+22ST; its chromosomes can be divided into 3 groups Every pair of chromosomes have their characteristic G banding pattern. Conclusion: It is a typical species of Scincolacertoidae and a primitive species in Saurta,but it is more evolutional than Takydromus septentrinalis Guenther and Takydromus woiteri.
Huang, S.-P. & Tu, M.-C. (2008) -
1. We investigated whether heat tolerance has a crucial impact on the altitudinal distribution of a high-altitude lizard, Takydromus hsuehshanensis (>1800 m altitude). 2. We measured and compared its heat tolerance with that of another two lowland species. Heat tolerance measurement included critical thermal maximum (CTMax) and survival rates under three fluctuating daily temperature treatments over a 3-month period. Two of the three temperature treatments, the extremely high temperature (EH treatment) and the average temperature (H treatment), were set to approximate lowland summer temperatures. The third one was set to approximate cool temperature in mountain areas (C treatment). 3. Our results showed that (1) CTMax of T. hsuehshanensis was higher than the summer temperature in the lowland areas, and not significantly lower than that of two other lowland species, (2) T. hsuehshanensis survived the H and EH treatments over a 3-month period and its survival rate was not significantly lower than that of the other two lowland species. Therefore, T. hsuehshanensis was not only able to tolerate high temperatures mimicking lowland areas for a short period of time, but also for a much longer period of time. 4. We conclude that the heat tolerance of T. hsuehshanensis is not a crucial factor limiting its current altitudinal distribution.
We investigated whether cold tolerance was an important limiting factor in the current altitudinal distributions of two Takydromus lizards, T. formosanus (< 1500 m in altitude) and the lowland-dwelling T. stejnegeri (< 1000 m in altitude) in Taiwan. We measured their critical thermal minimum (CTMin) and 3 mo survival rates in 4 cold treatments, and compared these with a high-mountainous species, T. hsuehshanensis (> 1800 m in altitude). The results indicated that (1) both the CTMin and prolonged cold tolerance were correlated to their upper limit of altitudinal distributions as predicted and (2) T. formosanus and T. stejnegeri had reasonable survival rates at temperatures that were lower than the underground temperature of high altitudinal areas. We concluded that although cold tolerance was correlated with altitudinal distribution, it is not a crucial factor limiting T. formosanus and T. stejnegeri at higher altitudes.
Huang, S.-P. & Tu, M.-C. (2009) -
We investigated the impact of environmental temperature on elevational distributions of a high-mountainous lizard, Takydromus hsuehshanensis, by examining the thermal sensitivity of its locomotor performance. Its sprint speed was measured at 9 body temperatures after 2 wk of acclimation at 2 different temperatures. The same measurements were performed on a closely related species, T. formosanus, which lives at lower elevations. The results indicated that (1) T. hsuehshanensis was capable of maintaining normal locomotor performance within a body temperature range which approximates summer temperatures of lowland areas; (2) T. formosanus was able to run significantly faster than T. hsuehshanensis within a certain range of body temperatures; (3) these 2 species did not differ in their thermal sensitivities of the locomotor performance; and (4) temperature acclimation treatments did not affect the locomotor performance of these 2 species. We concluded that locomotor performance is not a crucial factor limiting the distribution of T. hsuehshanensis in lowland areas.
Huang, S.P. & Porter, W.P. & Tu, M.C. & Chiou, C.R. (2014) -
Warmer climates have affected animal distribution ranges, but how they may interact with vegetation patterns to affect habitat use, an important consideration for future wildlife management, has received little attention. Here, we use a biophysical model to investigate the potential thermal impact of vegetation pattern on the habitat quality of a high-elevation grassland lizard, Takydromus hsuehshanensis, and to predict the thermal suitability of vegetation for this species in a future warmer climate (assuming 3 °C air temperature increase). We assess the thermal quality of vegetation types in our study area (Taroko National Park in areas >1,800 m) using three ecologically relevant estimates of reptiles: body temperature (T b), maximum active time, and maximum digestive time. The results show that increasing forest canopy gradually cools the microclimates, hence decreasing these estimates. In the current landscape, sunny mountain-top grasslands are predicted to serve as high quality thermal habitat, whereas the dense forests that are dominant as a result of forest protection are too cold to provide suitable habitat. In simulated warmer climates, the thermal quality of dense forests increases slightly but remains inferior to that of grasslands. We note that the impact of warmer climates on this reptile will be greatly affected by future vegetation patterns, and we suggest that the current trend of upslope forest movement found in many other mountain systems could cause disadvantages to some heliothermic lizard species.
Huang, W.S. (1998) -
In this study, I describe seasonal variations in the male and female reproductive cycles of Takydromus hsuehshanensis, an oviparous grass lizard endemic to the high altitude areas of Taiwan. Mean snout-vent length (SVL) of adult males (n = 78) and females (n = 105) were 60.5 mm (range = 47-72 mm) and 61.2 mm (range = 54-72 mm), respectively. Females exhibited a spring vitellogenic period with parturition occurring in May to July. The onset of vitellogenesis showed a negative correlation with the mass of the female fat body. Females produced two to four eggs per clutch, and clutch size was positively correlated with SVL: only females with SVLs equal to or larger than 61 mm produced a clutch consisting of four eggs. Two clutches were recorded during a single year in some individuals. Males exhibited a continuous spermatogenic pattern, but testis mass, accessory sexual organ mass, and seminiferous tubule diameter showed cyclical changes with a peak before the dormant months from September to December. The tubules of the epididymides were full of sperm from December to the following March, indicating that sperm were stored in the epididymides until the occurrence of ovulation in the spring. Male fat bodies exhibited the lowest mass from March to June, coincident with the period of reproductive activity. Male seminiferous tubule diameter exhibited a positive correlation with liver, fat body, and testis masses. However, seminiferous tubule diameter, as well as testes mass, had a negative correlation with precipitation. Timing of reproduction in four other sympatric lizards and clutch size variation in other Takydromus species are compared with those in T. hsuehshanensis.
Huang, W.S. (2006) -
I describe habitat use, diet, and male and female reproductive cycles of Takydromus sauteri, an oviparous grass lizard inhabiting Orchid Island, a tropical island off the southeastern coast of Taiwan. All T. sauteri were observed on leaves of Japanese silver-grass (Miscanthus floridulus) at the forest edge. The diet of T. sauteri consisted mostly of spiders (35.7%) and Hemipterans (14.3%). Two prey categories, spiders and gymnoceratans, numerically dominated the diet. Two lizards` stomach contained plant seeds, and two had eaten roaches. Mean snout-vent length (SVL) of adult males (N = 59) was 64.2 (range: 60.3-73.7) mm and that of females (N = 63) was 67.1 (range: 50.6-76.5) mm. Females exhibited spring and summer vitellogenesis with parturition occurring from February to August. Onset of vitellogenesis showed a negative correlation with mass of female fat bodies. Females produced one to four eggs per clutch, and clutch size was not correlated with SVL. Two clutches were recorded during a single year in some individuals. Male fat bodies exhibited the lowest mass from January to July, coincident with the period of reproductive activity.
Huang, X. & Wu, H. & Tu, X. & Zhang, Z. & Su, H. & Shi, Y. & Wang, G. & Cao, G. & Nong, X. & Zhang, Z. (2015) -
Outbreaks of grasshoppers (Orthoptera: Acrididae) often cause serious ecological damage. Recently, there has been interest in using natural enemies of grasshopper for their biological control. This study examined the biology and predation on grasshoppers by Eremias argus, a common lizard in Inner Mongolia. Its developmental duration and life history are consistent with adaptation to grasshopper phenology. The diet structure of E. argus included grasshoppers, beetles, ants, leafhoppers, moths, bees and spiders. A positive correlation between E. argus population numbers and grasshopper population numbers was highly significant. We built models describing the functional response and intraspecific competition for E. argus adults. The functional feeding response of E. argus on grasshopper was classed as Holling type III. The maximum number of grasshoppers consumed by female and male adults were 11.2 and 7.0 individuals per day, respectively. Predatory ability was strongest in female adults, with the second and third instars of Oedaleusasiaticus preferred. The predation ratios(E) of E. argus on grasshoppers declined with increasing lizard density, especially for female adult E. argus. E. argus could play an important role in grasshopper control and maintaining a population of E. argus in the grassland ecosystem could effectively control low-density grasshopper populations on grassland. Suggestions on how E. argus could fit into an IPM programme for biological control of grasshopper are discussed.
Huber, D. (1999) -
Zwischen den Jahren 1996 und 1999 wurde das Kleinwalsertal bei mehreren Feldbegehungen erstmals genauer auf die Herpetofauna hin untersucht. Dabei konnten in diesem Gebirgstal am Alpennordrand, das durch ein rauhes, niederschlagsreiches Klima geprägt ist, 4 Amphibien- und 4 Reptilienarten nachgewiesen werden: Alpensalamander (Salamandra a. atra), Bergmolch (Triturus a. alpestris), Grasfrosch (Rana t. temporaria), Erdkröte (Bufo b. bufo); Blindschleiche (Anguis f. fragilis), Zauneidechse (Lacerta a. agilis), Bergeidechse (Zootoca v. vivipara) und Kreuzotter (Vipera b. berus). Neben der Verbreitung der einzelnen Arten werden die geologisch-hydrologischen Bedingungen als auch die klimatischen Gegebenheiten des Untersuchungsgebietes vorgestellt. Nach einigen kurzen Bemerkungen zur Vegetationsdecke, werden die Methoden zur Kartographierung erläutert. Die Verbreitung der einzelnen Arten wird mittels Rasterkarten dargestellt und kurz kommentiert. Im Kapitel Diskussion wird die Vergesellschaftung der vorgefundenen Lurche und Kriechtiere, mit Bezug auf die verschiedenen Lebensräume aufgezeigt. Als Abschluß der vorliegenden Arbeit wird noch auf die Gefährdung und den Schutz der Amphibien und Reptilien eingegangen.
Hubert, J. (1963) -
Hubert, J. (1964) -
Hubert, J. (1970) -
The primary gonocytes contain numerous yolk granules and lipid droplets; there is also some glycogen in their cytoplasm. Mitochondria are located in a juxtanuclear area. The chromatin is diffuse and in some reptiles a ring-shaped nucleolus is noted. Near the nucleolus there is a peculiar area which we have called “masse paranucléolaire”. The fate of all these cellular components was studied throughout embryonic development and during postnatal life. These cytologic characteristics permit the identification of the gonocytes from the gastrula stage. The “masse paranucléolaire” permits the clear demonstration of a continuity of the germinal line from gastrulation to the adult stage.
The primordial germ cells of Lacerta vivipara have relatively few free polysomes and little ergastoplasm. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum increases during embryonic development. The Golgi apparatus is well developed and lies close to the mitochondrial juxtanuclear cap. This study shows the ultrastructure of the ring-shaped nucleoli and the “masse paranucléolaire”. Modifications in nucleolar structure are observed during embryonic development. Some ultrastructural features are probably related to the ameboid movement of the primordial germ cells. The physiological meaning of the ring-shaped nucleoli and the “masse paranucléolaire” is considered.
Hubert, J. (1971) -
First the granulosa cells establish close contact with the plasma membrane of the oocyte. Then, the zona pellucida separates them. The oocyte acquires numerous microvillosities, and an intensely active micropinocytosis is observed in the ovocytic invaginations. Granules originating in the theca externa pass through the intercellular spaces of the granulosa and invade the zona pellucida and the invaginations of the oocyte. At the level of these invaginations, coated vesicles incorporate granules and form granular vesicles without coating. These granular vesicles are transformed into cortical vitelline spheres. The nutritive function, generally assigned to the pyriform cells, is not confirmed in this study. The great development of the Golgi apparatus in these cells suggests a secretory function. Perhaps the pyriform cells secrete the amorphous component of the periovocytic space.
The granulosa thickens by mitotic division of the small follicle cells, without any external contribution. The pyriform cells arise from the transformation of certain small cells and show many morphological and cytological similarities with young oocytes. In spite of this resemblance, there is no proof for the germinal nature of the pyriform cells. The nucleolus of these cells shows certain peculiarities, and a clear separation of fibrillar and granular components. The physiological significance of the pyriform cells remains to be determined, but they have no duct and their large Golgi apparatus has no relationship with the granules incorporated by the oocyte. The degeneration of many pyriform cells is one of the reasons for the reduction of the granulosa. Some ultrastructural features of this degenerative process are described.
Hubert, J. (1973) -
Hubert, J. (1975) -
Hubert, J. (1976) -
Hudecek, J. & Suhaj, J. (1994) -
Die Mauereidechse kommt in Süd- und Südosteuropa vor. Nördlich reicht sie bis Belgien, Niederlande und Deutschland, der nördlichste Rand ihrer Verbreitung verläuft durch die Slowakei. Die Art wurde auch von Südmähren angeführt, jedoch nicht belegt. Die Literaturangaben über das Vorkommen der Maureidechse in Nordmähren und Schlesien wurden bisher nicht zusammenfasst und bewertet. Es handelt sich um ältere Arbeiten: ENS 1835, RICHTER 1890, aber auch Pytlícek & Lacina 1977, Randík et al. 1957 - in dieser letzten Arbeit handelte sich um einen Fund in der Nahrung von Buteo buteo (möglicherweise eine Verschleppung durch den Raubvogel aus den bekannten Vorkommen, die 150 km entfernt sind). Die Autoren stellt zusammenfassend fest, dass die Maureidechse kein Mitglied der Fauna Nordmährens und Schlesiens ist.
Hudson, P. (2009) -
Huey, R.B. & Bennett, A.F. & Alder, H.-J. & Nagy, K.A. (1984) -
Closely related lacertid lizards (Eremias, Nucras) in the Kalahari desert differ in patterns of foraging behaviour. Some species are relatively sedentary (‘sit-and-wait’) whereas others are more active (‘widely-foraging’) predators. We determined whether whole-animal locomotor capacities (cruising endurance on a treadmill, initial speed and maximum burst speed in a racetrack, and sprint endurance in a torus-shaped track) correlated with interspecific differences in foraging behaviour. Two of three widely-foraging species had greater cruising endurance, graater sprint endurance, but lower burst speed than did a sit-and-wait species. However, the two species that sprinted quickly also had limited endurance, and vice versa. Pre-feeding negatively influenced endurance but not sprint capacity. Theoretical models of foraging behaviour should recognize that ectotherms have limited endurance, that there can be a trade-off between speed and endurance, and that pre-feeding can reduce some aspects of locomotor capacity.
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. (1977) -
We discuss seasonal variation in thermoregulatory behavior and its consequences on body temperature for 12 species of diurnal lizards in the southern Kalahari semidesert of Africa and also evaluate several methods of attempting to document thermoregulatory behavior using a descriptive data base. Lizards vary time of activity among seasons, which limits the variation in ambient conditions actually experienced. Ground-dwelling lizards and probably arboreal lizards move nonrandomly with respect to sun and shade; thus the percentage of lizards in sun in inversely proportional to air temperature. Arboreal lizards shift to higher perches at midday in summer and to logs or ground in winter thus decreasing and increasing incident heat loads, respectively. Both juveniles and adults of 3 species, only juveniles of 2 species, and only adults in 1 species are active in winter: both adults and juveniles of 6 species brumate [= hibernate]. Mean body temperature (T`b) varies within days and among months and is positively correlated with corresponding mean air temperature (T`a) in almost all species. Nonetheless, correlation and regression analysis suggests that thermoregulatory behaviors reduce the impact of variations in ambient conditions on Kalahari lizards. The mean T`b of different species reflect evolutionary relationships. In summer, mean T`b is proportional to the percentage of lizards in sun and with the tendency of lizards to be active only in summer. Thus, lizards with inferred low optimal temperatures are active during more months of the year.
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. (1981) -
Desert lizards are typically either widely foraging or sit-and-wait predators, and these foraging modes are correlated with major differences in ecology. Foraging mode is related to the type of prey eaten by lizards. Widely foraging lizards in the Kalahari desert, the Western Australian desert, and the North American desert generally eat more prey that are sedentary, unpredictably distributed, and clumped (e.g., termites) or that are large and inaccessible (inactive scorpions) than do sit-and-wait lizards. In contrast, sit-and-wait lizards eat more prey that are active. Foraging mode also appears to influence the types of predators that in turn eat the lizards. For example, a sit-and-wait snake eats predominately widely foraging lizards. Crossovers in foraging mode thus exist between trophic levels. Widely foraging lizards may also encounter predators more frequently, as suggested by analyses of relative tail lengths; but tail break frequencies are ambiguous. Daily maintenance energetic expenditures of widely foraging lizards appear to be about 1.3-1.5 times greater than those of sit-and-wait lizards in the same habitats, but gross food gains are about 1.3-2.1 times greater. Widely foraging species also have lower relative clutch volumes, apparently in response to enhanced risks of predation. Foraging mode within one species varies with changes in food availability. Physiology, morphology, and risk of predation might generally restrict the flexibility of foraging mode. Because foraging mode constrains numerous important aspects of ecology, any general model of foraging velocity must be complex.
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. (2007) -
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. (2018) -
The performance of ectotherms integrated over time depends in part on the position and shape of the distribution of body temperatures (Tb) experienced during activity. For several complementary reasons, physiological ecologists have long expected that Tb distributions during activity should have a long left tail (left‐skewed), but only infrequently have they quantified the magnitude and direction of Tb skewness in nature. To evaluate whether left‐skewed Tb distributions are general for diurnal desert lizards, we compiled and analysed Tb (∑ = 9,023 temperatures) from our own prior studies of active desert lizards in three continents (25 species in Western Australia, 10 in the Kalahari Desert of Africa and 10 species in western North America). We gathered these data over several decades, using standardized techniques. Many species showed significantly left‐skewed Tb distributions, even when records were restricted to summer months. However, magnitudes of skewness were always small, such that mean Tb were never more than 1°C lower than median Tb. The significance of Tb skewness was sensitive to sample size, and power tests reinforced this sensitivity. The magnitude of skewness was not obviously related to phylogeny, desert, body size or median body temperature. Moreover, a formal phylogenetic analysis is inappropriate because geography and phylogeny are confounded (i.e. are highly collinear). Skewness might be limited if lizards pre‐warm inside retreats before emerging in the morning, emerge only when operative temperatures are high enough to speed warming to activity Tb, or if cold lizards are especially wary and difficult to spot or catch. Telemetry studies may help evaluate these possibilities.
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. & Hoffmann, J.A. (1977) -
We discuss seasonal variation in thermoregulatory behavior and its consequences on body temperature for 12 species of diurnal lizards in the southern Kalahari semidesert of Africa and also evaluate several methods of attempting to document thermoregulatory behavior using a descriptive data base. Lizards vary time of activity among seasons, which limits the variation in ambient conditions actually experienced. Ground-dwelling lizards and probably arboreal lizards move nonrandomly with respect to sun and shade; thus the percentage of lizards in sun is inversely proportional to air temperature. Arboreal lizards shift to higher perches at midday in summer and to logs or ground in winter thus decreasing and increasing incident heat loads, respectively. Both juveniles and adults of 3 species, only juveniles of 2 species, and only adults in I species are active in winter: both adults and juveniles of 6 species brumate [= hibernate]. Mean body temperature (T,) varies within days and among months and is positively correlated with corresponding mean air temperature (T,) in almost all species. Nonetheless, correlation and regression analysis suggests that thermoregulatory behaviors reduce the impact of variations in ambient conditions on Kalahari lizards. The mean Tb of different species reflect evolutionary relationships. In summer, mean T i s proportional to the percentage of lizards in sun and with the tendency of lizards to be active only in summer. Thus, lizards with inferred low optimal temperatures are active during more months of the year.
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. & Vitt, L.J. (2001) -
Energy balance is relevant to diverse issues in ecology, physiology, and evolution. To determine whether lizards are generally in positive energy balance, we synthesized a massive data set on the proportion of individual lizards (N = 18223) with empty stomachs (127 species), representing nine families distributed on four continents, primarily in temperate zone deserts but also in the neotropics. The average percentage of individuals with empty stomachs is low (13.2%) across all species, even among desert lizards, suggesting that most lizards are in positive energy balance. Nevertheless, species vary substantially in this regard (among all species, 0% to 66% of individuals have empty stomachs). Several patterns are detectable among species with unusually high frequencies of empty stomachs. In particular, nocturnal lizards “run on empty” more often on average than do diurnal species (24.1% vs. 10.5%); and this pattern holds even for nocturnal vs. diurnal geckos (21.2% vs. 7.2%, respectively). Several (but not all) top predators have a higher frequency of empty stomachs than do species that feed at lower trophic levels. Diet breadth and body size appear unrelated to frequency of empty stomachs. Widely foraging species sometimes have a high frequency of empty stomachs relative to sit-and-wait species, but patterns vary among continents and appear to be confounded by phylogeny and trophic level. Ant-eating specialists have uniformly low frequencies of empty stomachs. Diurnal termite specialists also have low frequencies of empty stomachs, but nocturnal ones have high frequencies. Lizards from certain families (Gekkonidae [including Pygopodidae], Gymnophthlamidae, and Varanidae) are more likely to have empty stomachs than are those of other families (Agamidae, Iguanidae, Lacertidae, Scincidae, and Teiidae).
Hughes, A. & Bryant, S.V. & Bellairs, A. D`A. (1967) -
The behaviour of embryos of the lizard Lacerta vivipara has been studied in cultured eggs, removed from the mother. Spontaneous movements begin at a time when the embryo is still unresponsive to touch, and about two days before the appearance of reflex responses. The earliest movements consist of lateral flexion which gradually gives place to dorsiventral flexion. Embryonic movements are not necessarily related to contractions of the amnion. The activity of the embryo, as measured by the number of times movements were initiated and the amount of time spent in activity during a half hour period, rises to a plateau and then decreases sharply as the time of hatching approaches. Activity of the tail is prominent, particularly at times when other movements occur in rapid succession. Serpentine movements were not observed in embryos younger than stage 39; some prematurely born animals showed such activity in response to contact with the substratum. During embryonic life any part of the animal may move individually or in combination with any other part, such combined movements being unco-ordinated. In these respects the spontaneous motility of the lizard embryo closely resembles that of the chick. Statistical analysis of the embryonic movements provides evidence of rhythmic activity within the developing central nervous system.
Hughes, D.F. & Greenbaum, E. & Behangana, M. (2014) -
Hughes, D.F. & Greenbaum, E. & Wilber, L. & Behangana, M. (2015) -
Huguet, C. (2014) -
Hunter, L.E. (2021) -
How can we bridge the gap between studies concerning microevolution and those concerning macroevolution? Taverne et al. provide a framework for how to study both intraspecific and interspecific variations simultaneously through their examination of how cranio mandibular skeletal and muscle shape responds to ecological pressures in Podarcis lizards.
Hür, H. & Ugurtas, I.H. & Isbilir, A. (2008) -
The amphibians and reptiles of Kazdağı in western Anatolia were investigated. In the study area, 190 specimens belonging to 34 species from 15 amphibian and reptile families were determined. Three of these species are urodelan, 5 are anurans, 2 are turtles, 1 is a tortoise, 12 are lizards, and 11 are snakes. Rana dalmatina Bonaparte, 1840, Anguis fragilis Linnaeus, 1758, and Podarcis sicula (Rafinesque, 1810) were recorded at Kazdağı for the first time.
Hurston, H. & Voith, L. & Bonanno, J. & Foufopoulos, J. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E. & Anthony, N. (2009) -
Landbridge islands offer unique opportunities for understanding the effects of fragmentation history on genetic variation in island taxa. The formation of islands by rising sea levels can be likened to a population bottleneck whose magnitude and duration is determined by island area and time since isolation, respectively. The Holocene landbridge islands of the Aegean Sea (Greece) were formed since the last glacial maximum and constitute an ideal system for disentangling the effects of island area, age and geographic isolation on genetic variability. Of the many reptile species inhabiting this island system, the Aegean wall lizard Podarcis erhardii is an excellent indicator of fragmentation history due to its widespread distribution and poor over-water dispersal abilities. In this study, we utilize a detailed record of Holocene fragmentation to investigate the effects of island history on wall lizard mitochondrial and nuclear microsatellite diversity. Findings show that the spatial distribution of mitochondrial haplotypes reflects historical patterns of fragmentation rather than geographic proximity per se. In keeping with neutral bottleneck theory, larger and younger islands retain more nuclear genetic variation than smaller, older islands. Conversely, there is no evidence of an effect of isolation by distance or effect of distance to the nearest larger landmass on genetic variability, indicating little gene flow between islands. Lastly, population-specific measures of genetic differentiation are inversely correlated with island area, suggesting that smaller islands exhibit greater divergence due to their greater susceptibility to drift. Taken together, these results suggest that both island area and time since isolation are important predictors of genetic variation and that these patterns likely arose through the progressive fragmentation of ancestral diversity and the ensuing cumulative effects of drift.
Hussain, R. & Recknagel, J. & Elmer, K.R. (2024) -
Pregnancy is a physiological cost of reproduction for animals that rely on fleeing to avoid predators. Costs of reproduction are predicted to differ between alternative reproductive strategies or modes, such as egg-laying (oviparity) or live-bearing (viviparity). However, disentangling the factors that comprise this cost and how it differs for oviparous or viviparous females is challenging due to myriad environmental, biological, and evolutionary confounds. Here, we tested the hypothesis that costs of pregnancy differ between oviparous and viviparous common lizards (Zootoca vivipara). We predicted that the degree of locomotor impairment during pregnancy and therefore the cost of reproduction would be higher in viviparous females. We conducted our experiment in a hybrid zone containing oviparous and viviparous common lizards. Due to the common environment and inclusion of hybrid individuals, we could infer whether differences were inherent to parity mode. We found that the average and maximum running speed of pregnant females was slower than after they had given birth or laid eggs. Viviparous females experienced an additional pregnancy weight burden and for a longer time period, but were not slower at running than pregnant oviparous females. In addition, we found a parity mode-specific effect of reproductive investment; producing larger clutches was costlier for the locomotor performance of viviparous females for reasons other than the mass increase. Locomotor costs were found to be intermediate in hybrid females, indicating that they are specific to each reproductive mode. Our study shows that viviparous females experience an additional physical and physiological cost of pregnancy and reproductive investment. This two-fold cost implies that viviparous females modulate resource allocation decisions and/or adjust their behavioural responses that result from locomotor impairment.
Hutterer, R. (1985) -
To date little is known about Gigant lizards from Gomera. Old reports that had partly been incorrectly by subsequent authors, have been studies and are critically discussed here. – The author collected new fossil material on Gomera since 1981. He discovered several sites of presumably Pleistocene age one about 500 years old prehispanic site. Comparative material was collected on Hierro and Tenerife and was also available from various collections. – The lizard genus Gallotia is reviewed with regard to osteological characters useful for the identification of species. Six species, galloti, atlantica, simonyi, stehlini, goliath and maxima are treated. – The fossil remains of lizards from Gomera are described. They represent three species assigned to Gallotia goliath (Mertens, 1942; type locality Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife), Gallotia simonyi (Steindachner, 1889; type locality Zalmor Rock, Hierro) and Gallotia galloti (Oudart, 1839; type locality Güimar, Tenerife). However, they differ from the known forms in size or characters. Therefore two new subspecies are described from Gomera: Gallotia goliath bravoana subsp. n. and Gallotia simonyi gomerana subsp. n. – The new materal proves sympatry and contemporaneous existence of three Gallotia species on Gomera during the Pleistocene. G. simonyi was also found in a prehispanic site documenting its existence 500 years ago. This record supports the statement by v. Fritsch (1870), who reported sight records of large lizards, possible G. simonyi, in the 19th century, also on Gomera. It is therefore possible that the large G. simonyi, too, has survived and may be still alive somewhere on Gomera today.
Hütz, W. (2015) -
Hutzler, M. (2023) -
Sie sind wieselflink und mucksmäuschenstill – deshalb fällt kaum auf, dass in Kelheim Hunderte, wenn nicht Tausende Mauereidechsen leben. Aber für Fachmann Helmut Willert ist dieser Nachweis eine Sensation; er fordert Naturschutz-Konsequenzen. Und ist überzeugt: Diese Art wird im Klimawandel auf der Siegerseite sein.
Huyghe, K. & Breugelmans, K. & Small, M. & Tadic, Z. & Van Damme, R. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Backeljau, T. (2009) -
We describe polymerase chain reaction primers and amplification conditions for 13 highly polymorphic microsatellite DNA loci isolated from the Dalmatian wall lizard, Podarcis melisellensis. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 12 to 41, with levels of observed heterozygosity between 0.62 and 0.94. Most of these loci were successfully cross-amplified in the closely related species P. sicula, but levels of polymorphism were always lower.
Huyghe, K. & Herrel, A. & Adriaens, D. & Tadic, Z. & Van Damme, R. (2009) -
Males of the lizard Podarcis melisellensis occur in three distinct colours that differ in bite performance, with orange males biting harder than white or yellow ones. Differences in bite force among colour morphs are best explained by differences in head height, suggesting underlying variation in cranial shape and/or the size of the jaw adductors. To explore this issue further, we examined variation in cranial shape, using geometric morphometric techniques. Additionally, we quantified differences in jaw adductor muscle mass. No significant differences in size corrected head shape were found, although some shape trends could be detected between the colour morphs. Orange males have relatively larger jaw adductors than yellow males. Not only the mass of the external jaw adductors, but also that of the internal jaw adductors was greater for the orange morph. Data for other cranial muscles not related to biting suggest that this is not the consequence of an overall increase in robustness in orange individuals. These results suggest that differences in bite performance among morphs are caused specifically by an increase in the mass of the jaw adductor, which may be induced by differences in circulating hormone levels.
Huyghe, K. & Herrel, A. & Husak, J.F. & Damme, R. van (2007) -
Huyghe, K. & Herrel, A. & Husak, J.F. & Van Damme, R. (2008) -
Through their direct action on behaviour or through their influence on morphology and performance, circulating testosterone (T) levels are mediators of aggressive displays and interactions. T levels also affect the degree of parasite infection, through their effects on immunocompetence. We tested these ideas on a population of lizards, which exhibits a colour polymorphism. Males occur in 3 different colours (white, yellow, orange), providing an opportunity to test the idea of morphs being alternative solutions to the evolutionary challenges posed on the link between hormones, morphology, performance, and parasite load. Morphs differ in size, and bite force capacity, but they don’t differ in locomotion performance or activity pattern. Here, we test the hypothesis that these differences are related to differences in testosterone levels and parasite loads between morphs, suggesting a balance between different fitness effects. Secondly we test the existence of a correlation between T and different performance variables. We found that higher T levels increase bite force capacity and that the orange morph indeed has a higher blood plasma T level than the yellow morph, and that it suffers more from parasite (mite) infection. It seems that selection pressures have indeed induced alternative solutions in this species, reflected in different morphs.
Huyghe, K. & Husak, J.F. & Herrel, A. & Tadic, Z. & Moore, I.T. & Van Damme, R. & Vanhooydonck, B. (2009) -
Species with alternative phenotypes offer unique opportunities to investigate hormone–behavior relationships. We investigated the relationships between testosterone, corticosterone, morphology, performance, and immunity in a population of lizards (Podarcis melisellensis) which exhibits a color polymorphism. Males occur in three different color morphs (white, yellow, orange), providing an opportunity to test the idea of morphs being alternative solutions to the evolutionary challenges posed on the link between hormones, morphology, performance, and immunity. Morphs differed in bite force capacity, with orange males biting harder, and in corticosterone levels, with yellow males having lower levels than orange. However, morphs did not differ in testosterone levels or in the immunological parameters tested. At the individual level, across morphs, testosterone levels predicted size-corrected bite force capacity, but no relation was found between hormone levels and immunity. Our results do not support the testosterone-based polymorphism hypothesis and reject the hypothesis of a trade-off between testosterone and immunity in this species, but provide a mechanistic link between testosterone and a sexually selected performance trait.
Huyghe, K. & Husak, J.F. & Moore, I.T. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Van Damme, R. & Molina-Borja, M. & Herrel, A. (2010) -
Because sexual selection pressures are high in sexually dimorphic organisms, morphological, physiological and performance traits are often studied in a sexual selection context. The proximate mechanisms underlying evolutionary change in these traits, however, remain largely unstudied. Here, we examined the role of steroids in shaping morphology and physiological performance in males of a sexually dimorphic lizard (Gallotia galloti). We compared morphology and physiological performance of males with experimentally elevated testosterone levels to sham-operated males. Before surgery, inter-individual variation in plasma testosterone levels correlated positively with bite force capacity. Administration of exogenous testosterone resulted in an increase of the mass of both jaw closing and locomotory muscles compared with sham-operated individuals, but the responsiveness varied considerably among muscle groups. In contrast to our expectations, the dramatic testosterone-induced changes in muscle masses did not result in concordant changes in bite force performance or sprint speed.
Huyghe, K. & Oystaeyen, A. van & Pasmans, F. & Tadić, Z. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Van Damme, R. (2010) -
Permanent colour polymorphisms may be maintained by complex interactions between physiological traits (e.g. immunity) and environmental pressures. In this study we investigate morph specific variation in parasite load and cellular immune response (induced by a Phytohaemagglutinin, PHA injection) in a colour polymorphic population of the Dalmatian wall lizard (Podarcis melisellensis), where adult males have bright white, yellow or orange throats and ventral sides. Orange males have larger heads and can bite harder than the others. To examine seasonal effects, analyses were performed at an early and late stage in the reproductive season (May and September). Infection with mites and ticks did not differ among morphs, but was more severe at the end of the reproductive season. Fewer orange individuals were infected with haemogregarines at the end of the season, but white males were always more infected (higher number of haemogregarines in their blood) than other morphs. White and yellow males showed an increased PHA response towards the end of the season, but PHA response decreased in the orange morph. Finally, across all morphs, a relationship was found between ectoparasite load and PHA response. Our study provides indications of alternative life-history strategies among colour morphs and evidence for an up-regulation of the immune function at the end of the reproductive season.
Huyghe, K. & Small, M. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Herrel, A. & Tadic, Z. & Van Damme, R. & Backeljau, T. (2010) -
If alternative phenotypes in polymorphic populations do not mate randomly, they can be used as model systems to study adaptive diversification and possibly the early stages of sympatric speciation. In this case, non random mating is expected to support genetic divergence among the different phenotypes. In the present study, we use population genetic analyses to test putatively neutral genetic divergence (of microsatellite loci) among three colour morphs of the lizard Podarcis melisellensis, which is associated with differences in male morphology, performance and behaviour. We found weak evidence of genetic divergence, indicating that gene flow is somewhat restricted among morphs and suggesting possible adaptive diversification.
Huyghe, K. & Van Damme, R. & Breugelmans, K. & Herrel, A. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Tadic, Z. & Backeljau, T. (2014) -
Although laboratory measurements of whole-animal performance have become a standard tool in evolutionary biology, if and how interindividual variation in performance translates into differential fitness remains poorly understood. Particularly rare are studies that have connected performance to mating and reproductive success in the field. In this study, we use DNA microsatellite parentage analyses to study the fitness gradient in a colour-polymorphic lizard, Podarcis melisellensis. We report on two surprising findings. First, contrary to our expectations, individual sprint speed and bite force capacity correlated negatively, not positively, with male mating and reproductive success. Second, we found an unexpected degree of promiscuity in females. Also, contrary to traditional parental investment theory, the variation in mating success and reproductive success was as high in females as in males. Our results call for a better integration of whole-animal performance and life history traits, and for a reconsideration of the ideas on the likeliness of sexual selection acting on female phenotypes.
Huyghe, K. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Herrel, A. & Tadic, Z. & Van Damme, R. (2007) -
Males of a Croatian population of the lacertid lizard Podarcis melisellensis exhibit a striking polymorphism, with coloration of the throat and abdomen ranging from completely white, to yellow or orange. In a first attempt to explore the potential ecological and evolutionary significance of this polymorphism, we compared the three forms of males in aspects of their morphology, whole-animal performance, behavior, and ecology. Orange males are, on average, larger in snout-vent length and have disproportionately larger heads than either white or yellow males. This is reflected in orange males having higher bite force capacity and theoretically an increased access to harder prey. Residual limb length, maximal sprint speed and maximal exertion do not differ among color morphs. Body temperatures in the field are similar in the three morphs, but yellow males are caught at sites with slightly higher air temperatures than are orange and white males. Behavioral observations show no differences in time budgets or in the timing of activities among morphs. Microhabitat use is also similar in the three color morphs, but orange males were more often initially seen on rocky substrates. Our findings suggest that the observed polymorphism likely does not originate from a divergence in niche or use of resources, but possibly reflects an underlying polymorphism in mating tactics.
Huyghe, K. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Herrel, A. & Tadic, Z. & Van Damme, R. (2012) -
Sexual selection molds the morphology, physiology and behavior of males in many animals. At first glance, it seems reasonable to assume that females would use the same male traits and signals in mate choice as males do during male–male competition. However, intra- and intersexual competition may affect traits in the same or the opposite direction, with differing strength. We investigated which color, morphometric and performance traits are selected for through male–male competition and whether female mate preference is based on these same traits and/or dominance status in the three male color morphs of the lizard Podarcis melisellensis. Males with relatively bigger heads and relatively higher bite forces were more likely to win fights and orange males were always dominant over the other morphs. Females, however, preferred scents of bigger males that were in better body condition, and surprisingly had lower bite force capacities. They did not show a preference for scents of any particular color morph or for scents of the more dominant males. These results indicate that intra- and intersexual competition may result in selection for different secondary sexual traits in P. melisellensis.
Huyghe, K. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Scheers, H. & Molina Borja, M. & Van Damme, R. (2005) -
1. Morphological characteristics (snout–vent length, badge area, mass, limb and head measures) and whole-animal performance capacities (sprint speed, acceleration capacity, stamina and bite force) were measured in male lizards, Gallotia galloti. These males were also tested in paired staged contests to assess relative fighting capacity and to link these results to morphology and performance. 2. A multivariate analysis of the four performance features revealed a clear difference between the physiological capacities of winners vs losers, with bite force being the most important predictor of the outcome of fights. 3. The finding that bite performance is linked to dominance fits in with the high sexual dimorphism in head size in this species, as head size is a predictor of bite force performance. 4. Winners of contests also tended to have larger total areas of blue patches on their sides, suggesting that these badges convey information on the social status of the males. However, since no correlation was found between bite force and badge size, the patches seem to contain information on a component of fighting capacity other than bite force.
Huyssteen, R. van & Petford, M.A. & Burger, M. & Šmíd, J. & Alzahrani, A.S. & Alowaifeer, A.M. & Mottram, P. & Gaugris, J.Y. (2024) -
The distribution of herpetofauna on the Arabian Peninsula is generally poorly known, particularly in Saudi Arabia. The King Abdulaziz Royal Nature Reserve (KARNR) in east-central Saudi Arabia is in an area predicted to have high reptile species richness, yet there is no baseline reptile checklist for the reserve. Knowing which species occur within a protected area is vital for ensuring that conservation strategies and long-term monitoring are effective. Here, we provide the first detailed list of reptile fauna occurring in the KARNR. This study recorded a total of 31 species from 1,551 observations, including 25 lizards and six snakes. A desktop study identified three additional species, bringing the total number of herpetofaunal species known in the KARNR to 34. Two of the species found in the reserve are of conservation concern: Uromastyx aegyptia (VU) and Tropiocolotes wolfgangboehmei (DD). Through species accumulation curves we were able to determine that the sampling methods implemented during the survey were adequate, and we predicted that the species richness of the reserve is likely as much as 38 species. Prior to this study, only 82 reptile records (30 species) were known from the study area, so we add a significant number of new records to the reserve and an additional four species that were previously unknown from the region.
Iankoshvili, G. & Tsikolia, N. & Barateli, N. & Gabelaia, M. & Seropian, A. & Tarkhnishvili, D. (2023) -
Visual inspection of several embryos of the parthenogenetic lizard Darevskia armeniaca revealed the presence of an embryo with axial bifurcation (“two-headed”) on the stage of pigmented eyes and plate-like limb buds with a distinct border at the edges. This is the third recorded case of axial bifurcation in D. armeniaca, although two previous cases were mentioned without further discussion. Here the bicephalic embryo is described in detail and the potential reasons are discussed. The analysis of the literature on axial bifurcation in lacertids suggests that this type of developmental disorder may be particularly common in this parthenogenetic form. Hybridization may cause multiple developmental disorders, including incomplete separation of twin embryos; all parthenogenetic Darevskia have a hybrid origin, and this may cause the disorders rather than parthenogenetic reproduction by itself. The hypothesis needs further study with more representative samples of parthenogenetic and sexually reproducing Darevskia.
Ibanez, A. & Skupien-Rabian, B. & Jankowska, U. & Kedracka-Krok, S. & Zajac, B. & Pabijan, M. (2022) -
Proteins are ubiquitous macromolecules that display a vast repertoire of chemical and enzymatic functions, making them suitable candidates for chemosignals, used in intraspecific communication. Proteins are present in the skin gland secretions of vertebrates but their identity, and especially, their functions, remain largely unknown. Many lizard species possess femoral glands, i.e., epidermal organs primarily involved in the production and secretion of chemosignals, playing a pivotal role in mate choice and intrasexual communication. The lipophilic fraction of femoral glands has been well studied in lizards. In contrast, proteins have been the focus of only a handful of investigations. Here, we identify and describe inter-individual expression patterns and the functionality of proteins present in femoral glands of male sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) by applying mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Our results show that the total number of proteins varied substantially among individuals. None of the identified femoral gland proteins could be directly linked to chemical communication in lizards, although this result hinges on protein annotation in databases in which squamate semiochemicals are poorly represented. In contrast to our expectations, the proteins consistently expressed across individuals were related to the immune system, antioxidant activity and lipid metabolism as their main functions, showing that proteins in reptilian epidermal glands may have other functions besides chemical communication. Interestingly, we found expression of the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) among the multiple and diverse biological processes enriched in FGs, tentatively supporting a previous hypothesis that MHC was coopted for semiochemical function in sand lizards, specifically in mate recognition. Our study shows that mass spectrometry-based proteomics are a powerful tool for characterizing and deciphering the role of proteins secreted by skin glands in non-model vertebrates.
Ibrahim, A. & Ineich, I. (2005) -
A total of 23 herpetofaunal species, including 2 frogs, 15 lizards, 5 snakes and one tortoise were reported from Nalut, Al-Jomayyel and Wazen provinces in Libya during the period November 2003- June 2004. Of these, 2 frogs and 16 reptile species were added to Nalut herpetofauna. This study confirms the occurrence of Scincopus fasciatus in Libya (Sindaco, 1995) and suggests the prevalence of Uromastyx acanthinura in the Libyan west. In contrast, some species such as Mesalina rubropunctata was rare in western Libya.
Ibrahim, A.A. (2001) -
Ibrahim, A.A. (2008) -
The herpetofauna of southwestern Libya has been surveyed during 2005- 2006. Overall, two amphibian and 18 reptile species were found; of these, 16 reptile species are reported for the first time for Morzoq Province and one lizard, Tarentola mauritanica, for Sabha Province.
Ibrahim, A.A. & Saleh, M.A. & Dixon, J.R. & Mahmoud, I.M. (2000) -
Idelberger, S. & Böll, M. (2011) -
Idrisova, L. & Khairutdinov, I. (2016) -
Such deviations as asymmetry and abnormalities can occur because of some external and internal factors that affect the organism during embryogenesis. The asymmetry of bilateral traits in sand lizards found in six areas of the Republic of Tatarstan is considered. Asymmetric features are estimated statistically; integral characteristics of fluctuating asymmetry are presented. The asymmetry in the number of femoral pores, cheek scutes, and supraciliar scutes is more common. Most of the characteristics demonstrate fluctuating asymmetry. It is observed in 41% of all the individuals. There are neither significant sex nor age differences in the values of fluctuating asymmetry. The populations from Bekser, Kordon and Spassk differ from the others by high levels of fluctuating asymmetry, and these differences can be explained by isolation, the genetic structure of populations, microclimatic conditions and other factors.
Идрисова Л.А., Хайрутдинов И.З. (2016) -
Рассмотрена асимметрия билатеральных признаков прыткой ящерицы в шести районах Республи- ки Татарстан. Проведена статистическая оценка асимметричных признаков, даны интегральные ха- рактеристики величины флуктуирующей асимметрии. Чаще всего наблюдается асимметрия в числе бедренных пор, переднескуловых и верхнересничных щитков. По большинству признаков фолидо- за наблюдается флуктуирующая асимметрия. Она отмечена у 41% всех особей. Статистически зна- чимых половых и возрастных различий в значениях интегральных показателей не выявлено. Вы- борки из Бексера, Кордона и Спасска отличаются от остальных высокими значениями показателей флуктуирующей асимметрии, что может объясняться изоляцией, генетической структурой популя- ций, микроклиматическими различиями и другими факторами.
Idrisova, L.A. (2017) -
The paper considers qualitative and quantitative characteristics of pholidosis variations in two lizard species, comparative analysis of these indices at both intraspecific and interspecific level is carried out. 45 and 19 types of deviations were observed in the sand lizard and common lizard respectively. Variations of the labial, supraocular and supraciliar, frontonasal, parietal, occipital and ventral scales are more common in both species. The sand lizards from the Spassky region differ from the others by some indices. Some common regularities in the deviation topography were noted for both species; they are perhaps characteristic of the genus Lacerta as a whole.
Идрисова Л.А. (2017) -
Рассматриваются качественные и количественные характеристики вариаций фолидоза двух видов ящериц, проводится сравнительный анализ показателей на внутривидовом и межвидовом уровне. У прыткой ящерицы отмечено 45 типов отклонений, у живородящей - 19. У обоих видов чаще встречаются вариации в области верхнегубных, надглазничных и верхнересничных, лобноносового, теменных, затылочного и брюшных щитков. Выборка прыткой ящерицы из Спасского района по ряду показателей отличается от остальных. Отмечены общие для обоих видов закономерности в топографии отклонений, которые, возможно, характерны для представителей рода Lacerta в целом.
Idrisova, L.A. (2018) -
This paper considers morphological deviations of reptiles and the influence of incubation temperature on this phenomenon. 28 types of pholidosis deviations and 5 types of malformations were observed in juvenile grass snakes. Sand lizards demonstrated 26 types of deviations and 11 types of malformations. The most common malformations in both species were spine and tail deformations. Hatchlings which were incubated at extremely high temperatures were characterized by the largest spectrum and the highest frequency of deviations and malformations. Reptiles with spine deformations had a great number of deviant ventral scales.
Iemma, A. & Tabarelli de Fatis, K. & Garollo, E. & Romano, A. & Iversen, D. & Nardelli, A. & Pedrini, P. (2021) -
To plan efficient conservation actions it is fundamental to have as many detailed and complete information as possible on the distribution of the target species. That is particularly true for amphibians and reptiles, taxa with generally little vagility and with relevant percentages of species included in one of the threatened IUCN categories. Fragmentation, modification an loss of habitats, together with the recent emergence of infectious fungal diseases in amphibians, represent the main causesof their decline. In order to efficiently direct conservation efforts, in particular towards species that are already or potentially threatened, it is important to create, and periodically update, atlases of their distribution. This work points out the updates to the ‘Atlas of th Amphibians and Reptiles of Trentino’, which is aimed at a throughout update that will be concluded by 2020, after about 20 years from the first publication. For this Atlas, the Trentino territory has been divide in cartographic map units represented by 309 UTM cells of 5x5 km. To date (June 1st 2018), 168 cells out of 309 contain at least one new observation since the last update, and 135 out of 309 contain species that were never recorded before. The data collection (which includes data from iNaturalist and Ornitho.it since 2017) has already gathered 1573 new observations (759amphibians and 814 reptiles), bringing the total at 7685 records for the provincial territory.
Iersel, R. van (1951) -
Iffat, F. (2006) -
Surveys along the coastal stretch, from Sandspit to Cape Monze, were undertaken during March 2003 to March 2006, to study the species of lizards. A total of 11 species of lizards belonging to 6 genera were reported from the area.
Iftime, A. & Gherghel, I. & Ghiurca, D. (2008) -
The already rich inventory of herpetofaunal records in Bacãu County is increased with 405 new records of 23 amphibian and reptile species from 54 localities, including a species now firstly found in the county. Some data regarding the habitat preferences of the recorded species are also given, especially if local populations show peculiar characteristics in this respect. Podarcis muralis is firstly recorded in Bacãu county. When available from long-term observations, tentative data on the multiyear dynamics of some species are given, showing decline in some of these.
Iftime, A. & Iftime, O. (2006) -
The preliminary results of herpetological studies in the Cozia massif in Vâlcea county, Romania, are presented; the 10 reptile species identified in the field (4 of which are new records) are presented together with data on their habitat association, abundance and impact of human activity.
Iftime, A. & Iftime, O. (2010) -
The results of herpetological studies in the Eastern Jiu and Upper Lotru basins in the Parâng- Lotru-aureanu mountain massif (Hunedoara and Vâlcea counties, Romania), are presented. 16 amphibian and reptile species were identified in the field in 33 sites investigated; these are presented together with data on their habitat association and intra-specific variability.
Iftime, A. & Iftime, O. (2013) -
The results of herpetological investigations in the Buila-Vânturariţa massif (Southern Carpathians, Romania) and its surrounding areas are reported here. 19 amphibian and reptile species were identified (Salamandra salamandra, Triturus cristatus, Ichthyosaura alpestris, Lissotriton vulgaris, Bombina variegata, Bufo bufo, B. viridis, Hyla arborea, Rana temporaria, R. dalmatina, Pelophylax ridibundus, P. lessonae, Emys orbicularis, Lacerta agilis, L. viridis, Podarcis muralis, Zootoca vivipara, Zamenis longissimus, Natrix natrix) and are presented together with distribution and ecological data.
Iftime, A. & Iftime, O. (2014) -
The results of studies on the amphibians and reptiles of the “Nordul Gorjului de Est” site of community interest on the south-facing slope of the Parâng massif and associated foothills (Gorj county, Romania), are presented. 11 amphibian and 8 reptile species were identified in the field. Their distribution within and around the site is discussed, together with ecological data, correlating these with the local climate influences. A new altitude record for Romania is given for Hyla arborea.
The results of studies on the amphibians and reptiles of the Leaota mountains (Dâmboviţa, Argeş and Braşov counties, Romania), a meeting-point of three Natura 2000 sites (Piatra Craiului, Leaota and Bucegi) forming a wildlife corridor, are presented. Twelve amphibian and 4 reptile species were identified in the field. Their distribution within and around the site is discussed, together with some data on the status of the local population. We remark the relative paucity of reptile species.
Iftime, A. & Iftime, O. (2016) -
The results of faunistical surveys of the amphibians in Teleorman county (Southern Romania) are presented here; we have identi ed nine amphibian species (Triturus cristatus, Lissotriton vulgaris, Bombina bombina, Pelobates syriacus, P. fuscus, Bufo bufo, B. viridis, Hyla arborea, Rana dalmatina, Pelophylax ridibundus), two amphibian hybrids (Triturus cristatus × T. dobrogicus and Pelophylax kl. esculentus) and six reptile species (Emys orbicularis, Lacerta agilis, L. viridis, Podarcis tauricus, Natrix natrix, Dolichophis caspius), with new records for many of these.
Iftime, A. & Iftime, O. (2019) -
The results of faunistic surveys upon the amphibian and reptile populations in the Cozia National Park are presented. We recorded (found) 11 amphibian species (including the hybridogenetic Pelophylax kl. esculentus) and 12 reptile species; some species (Bufotes viridis and Emys orbicularis) were found after a long lapse in scientific recording. We observe that the Cozia Massif appears to have a richer herpeto fauna than that of the adjoining Narâțu and Căpățânii massifs.
Igci, N. & Yildiz, M.Z. & Akman, B. & Göcmen, B. (2015) -
In this study, we aimed to determine the amphibian and reptile species distributed in Agri province (Turkey), as well the major factors threatening the species. For this purpose, we conducted 4 field excursions (20 days totally) at 223 different point, covering all the squares of 1:25.000 layout map. As a result of the literature and field survey, we recorded 4 anuran (Pseudepidalea variabilis, Pelophylax ridibundus, Rana camerani, R. macrocnemis), 2 chelonian (Mauremys caspica, Testudo graeca), 16 lizard (Paralaudakia caucasia, Phrynocephalus horvathi, Ablepharus bivittatus, Trachylepis aurata, Darevskia bendimahiensis, D. raddei, D. valentini, D. sapphirina, D. unisexualis, D. uzzelli, Eremias suphani, E. strauchi, E. pleskei, Lacerta media, Ophisops elegans, Parvilacerta parvd) and 14 snake (Typhlops vermicularis, Dolichophis jugularis, D. schmidti, Eirenis eiselti, E. modestus, E. collaris, Coronella austriaca, Hemorrhois ravergieri, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Platyceps najadum, Eryx jaculus, Montivipera wagneri, M raddei) species in Agri province, which is totally 4 amphibians and 32 reptiles. Three Anatolian endemic species (Darevskia sapphirina, Eirenis eiselti, Montivipera wagneri) and 7 species more was recorded in Agri as s first time in the literture. Taking into account the very limited herpetofaunal information available in the literature for Agri province, a significant contribution was made with this work. This study was conducted as a part of `The Ministry of Forestry and Water Affairs, General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks National Biodiversity Inventory and Monitoring Project`.
Iglesias-Carrasco, M. & Cabido, C. (2013) -
Iglesias-Carrasco, M. & Cabido, C. (2016) -
Iglesias-Carrasco, M. & Head, M.L. & Cabido, C. (2016) -
Lizards often respond to predators by hiding in sunless refuges, but this eliminates opportunities for thermoregulatory basking. Hiding can therefore lower body condition. Furthermore, in ectotherms basking is important to induce fever and activate an immune response. A potential trade-off therefore exists between lowering predation risk and elevating body temperature to fight infection. Such a trade-off could be habitat dependent if habitats differ in the relative risk of predation versus that of acquiring or countering an infection. Here we take an experimental approach to test whether lizard basking behavior is affected by a trade-off between predator avoidance and fighting an infection. We quantified the anti-predator behavior of male lizards (Podarcis liolepis) both before and after they were immune challenged (injected with LPS) or not (injected with PBS control). To test the generality of any trade-off, we tested lizards from both an urban and a natural habitat. We found that males spent less time hiding following a simulated predator attack after they had been immune challenged than before, but this decline was only significant for males from the natural habitat. We also tested whether morphological traits, body condition, and immune response level explained variation in male hiding time. In the natural habitat, but not in the urban habitat, males with relatively small heads hid for significantly longer. In conclusion, we show that lizard anti-predator behavior is affected by an immune challenge. Habitat differences in the factors that predict hiding time offers potential insights into why this might be the case.
Iglesias-Carrasco, M. & Head, M.L. & Martin, J. & Cabido, C. (2018) -
Environmental conditions experienced by a species during its evolutionary history may shape the signals it uses for communication. Consequently, rapid environmental changes may lead to less effective signals, which interfere with communication between individuals, altering life history traits such as predator detection and mate searching. Increased temperature can reduce the efficacy of scent marks released by male lizards, but the extent to which this negative effect is related to specific biological traits and evolutionary histories across species and populations have not been explored. We experimentally tested how increased temperature affects the efficacy of chemical signals of high- and low- altitude populations of three lizard species that differ in their ecological requirements and altitudinal distributions. We tested the behavioral chemosensory responses of males from each species and population to male scent marks that had been incubated at one of two temperatures (cold 16°C or hot 20°C). In high- altitude populations of a mountain species (Iberolacerta monticola), the efficacy of chemical signals (i.e., latency time and number of tongue flicks) was lower after scent marks had been exposed to a hot temperature. The temperature that scent marks were incubated at did not affect the efficacy of chemical signals in a ubiquitous species (Podarcis muralis) or another mountain species (I. bonalli). Our results suggest that specific ecological traits arising through local adaptation to restricted distributions may be important in determining species vulnerability to climatic change
IH Cantabria (2015) -
Ihász, N. & Bayer, K. & Kopena, R. & Molnár, O. & Herczeg, G. & Török, J. (2006) -
Survival of animals in the wild is fundamentally affected by their success in predator avoidance. The success of escape behavior – one main form of predator avoidance – may depend on the absolute speed difference between the prey and its predator, or on reaching a suitable refuge. Refuge use is influenced by the familiarity with the area. Use of unknown refuges can be more costly than attempting to reach a known and suitable refuge despite a temporally increased predation risk. We tested the predictions of this hypothesis in a population of the territorial, ground-dwelling Green lizard (Lacerta viridis) in the northern part of the Great Hungarian Plain, in the summer of 2005. Predatory attacks of an active forager mammal were simulated by walking slowly toward individual lizards until they fled. The researcher approached and made the observed green lizards to flee in a way by either (i) blocking them from the suitable refuge or (ii) allowing a free route to that refuge. Comparing escape events provoked by the above mentioned methods revealed that these lizards try to reach the suitable refuge irrespective of the position of the predator. We suppose that the benefit of using a familiar and suitable refuge is greater than the risk resulting from fleeing towards the predator.
Más állatcsoportokhoz hasonlóan a gyíkok túlélését a természetben alapvetıen befolyá- solja, hogy milyen sikerrel kerülik el ragadozóikat. A menekülés minden állat esetében az egyik fı vi- selkedési forma, amelynek sikere alapulhat a zsákmányállat és a ragadozó közti abszolút sebességkü- lönbségen, illetve egy megfelelı búvóhely elérésén. A búvóhelyhasználatot befolyásolja a terület ismerete. Egy ismeretlen búvóhely használatának több lehetséges költsége ismert: (i) nem nyújt megfele- lı védelmet; (ii) már tartózkodik benne egy ragadozó vagy egy agresszív fajtárs. Ezért egyes helyzetek- ben egy ismert és megfelelı búvóhely elérése akár nagyobb pillanatnyi predációs kockázat árán is nyere- séges lehet. Ennek a hipotézisnek a predikcióit teszteltük a talajlakó, territoriális zöld gyík (Lacerta viridis) egy észak-alföldi populációjában, 2005 nyarán. Az aktívan keresı emlıs ragadozót ember mo- dellezte. A terepen megfigyelt zöld gyíkokat (i) a megfelelı búvóhelytıl elvágva, vagy (ii) a búvóhely felé szabad utat engedve közelítettük meg és késztettük menekülésre. A kétféle módon kiváltott menekü- lési reakciók összehasonlításából kiderült, hogy a kifejlett zöld gyíkok a ragadozó helyzetétıl függetle- nül a megfelelı búvóhely elérésére törekedtek. Ez a viselkedési stratégia a nıstény egyedeknél volt kife- jezettebb. Eredményeink alapján a territoriális gyíkfajoknál elıfordulhat, hogy az ismert búvóhely használatának elınye nagyobb, mint a ragadozó felé való menekülés veszélye.
Iiyambo, N. & Eifler, D. & Marais, E. & Kirchhof, S. (2016) -
Ikeda, Y. (1933) -
Ikemeyer, D. & Kinkele, J. (2018) -
Ikovic, V. & Krasic, M. & Gvozdenovic, S. (2014) -
Iković, V. & Tomović, L. & Ljubisavljević, K. (2016) -
We present the distribution of amphibians and reptiles in the Bjelopavlici region (central Montenegro) based on our field work records and of literature data. Twelve species of amphibians and 25 species of reptiles were recorded at 49 localities of which 57 % records has not been previously published. The greatest diversity of batracho- and herpetofauna was recorded at sites in the river Zeta plain. Our study provides the important information for assessments of diversity of batracho- and herpetofauna of Montenegro and their conservation.
Ile, G.A. & Dumbrava, A.-R. (2020) -
Podarcis muralis was identified on Moldova Veche Island (Romania), although naturallythe island lacks the species` appropriate habitats. P. muralis occurs in artificial habitats represented by stony piers. Probably, some individuals were brought by chance to the island together with the stones used for the pier. P. muralis is limited to this artificial habitat, without any possibility of further distribution.
Ilgaz, Ç & Akkaya, A. & Hürriyet, H. (2019) -
ased on two specimens collected from Çatalca, İstanbul, Turkey we present a new distribution record for Darevskia pontica in Turkey. This find composes the south-easternmost record for the species and extends its range about 80 km. Data based on meristic pholidosis characters, metric measurements and color-patter features of the specimens were given in detail and it was observed that Çatalca population is similar to D. pontica reported in the literature.
Ilgaz, C. (2006) -
Forty-seven Darevskia armeniacaspecimens collected from 2 different localities in Ardahan were examined in terms of pholidosis characters, morphometric measurements and colour-pattern features. The 2 populations were differentiated from one another in terms of the number of supraciliar plates (left-right) (SCPa-SCPb), supralabial plates (left-right) (SRLa-SRLb) and transversal series of ventral plates (TVP) according to the results of the Mann-Whitney U test. An independent t-test based on morphometric measurements revealed significant differences in terms of the head index (HI) between the 2 populations. Regarding pholidosis characters, morphometric measurements and colour-pattern features, specimens collected from the 2 localities showed a similarity to Darevskia armeniacaspecimens from Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Zigana.
Ilgaz, C. (2007) -
In all, 103 specimens of Clark’s lizard, Darevskia clarkorum(Darevsky and Vedmederja, 1977), from 6 localities in the eastern Black Sea region of Turkey were examined in terms of pholidosis characteristics, morphometric measurements, and color and pattern features. Kolmogorov-Smirnov testing across all populations verified sexual dimorphism in the Ortacalar and Hemflin populations, regarding transversal series of ventral plates (P < 0.05). According to the Mann-Whitney U test, 16 pholidosis characteristics showed differences among the populations (P < 0.05). For comparison of morphometric measurements, 4 morphometric indices and ratios were developed. According to the results of independent t-testing, no differences were found between males and females among the populations. One-way variance analyses based on 4 morphometric indices and ratios confirmed that head index, snout-vent length/tail length, and tail length/total body length showed differences among the populations (P < 0.05). Regarding pholidosis characteristics (except rates of the presence of a masseteric plate and contact between the rostral and internasal plate), morphometric measurements, and color and pattern features, the specimens collected from 6 different localities were similar to D. clarkorum specimens mentioned in the literature. Furthermore, the known range of the species in Turkey has been extended.
Ilgaz, C. (2009) -
This study was designed to determine the degree of morphological differentiation between the subspecies of Darevskia parvula from northwestern Anatolia. The meristic pholidolial characters, metric dimensions and color-pattern features of specimens of both subspecies obtained from 10 different localities in the northeastern Anatolia, Turkey are given in detail and compared with regard to literature. In addition, thirty-six morphological characters were compared statistically and 66.7% of them showed differences between two subspecies.
Ilgaz, Ç. & Arıkan, H. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Avcı, A. (2010) -
Blood-serum proteins of the known subspecies of Apathya cappadocica (Werner, 1902) were studied comparatively by polyacrylamide disc gel electrophoresis. In order to obtain useful biochemical data for classification, differences between the electrophoreograms of the samples included in the morphologically different subspecies were distinguished qualitatively and quantitatively. These comparisons indicated that electrophoretic results supported morphological discrimination of the known subspecies of A. cappadocica.
Ilgaz, C. & Baran, I. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Avei, A. (2005) -
total of 12 Mesalina brevirostris specimens collected from Ceylanpinar, Sanliurfa, Turkey were examined in terms of pholidosis characters, morphometric measurements and color-pattern features. Akcakale and Ceylanpinar populations were differentiated from one another in the number transversal series of ventral plates (TVP) according to the results of the Mann–Whitney U-test. The main characteristics of the specimens collected from Ceylanpinar are within variation limits mentioned in the literature.
Ilgaz, Ç. & Kumlutaç, Y. (2005) -
Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutaş, Y. (2008) -
The new data on distribution of Timon princes (Blanford) in Southeastern Anatalia were obtained. All reliable data on its distribution in Turkey, including new locality, are presented on the map. The meristic pholidolial, metric (morphometric) characters and color-pattern features of specimens of T. princeps collected from 19 km SE of Siirt, Southeastern Anatolia, Turkey were given in detail and compared with the specimens from Iran, Iraq and other Turkish localities with regard to literature. In addition, Turkish and Iran populations of T. princes were compared statistically with each other in terms of meristic pholidolial characteristics and metric measurements.
Ilgaz, Ç. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Candan, K. (2016) -
During field work in western Anatolia, 4 specimens (one adult male, two subadult males and one subadult female) of Phoenicolacerta laevis from Dalaman, Muğla province were collected in November 2014. The results including meristic pholidolial, metric measurements and color-pattern features of specimens are compared with the data given in the previous literature. The occurrence of P. laevis in southern and western Anatolia is discussed.
Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Sözen, M. (2013) -
Six specimens of Podarcis siculus hieroglyphicus from Filyos, Zonguldak Province, in the western Black Sea region were collected. This new record extended eastward seriously (ca. 250 km) the known distribution area of the subspecies in Turkey. The meristic (pholidolial) and metric (morphometric) characters and color-pattern features of specimens collected from Filyos, Zonguldak, are given in detail and compared with the specimens from other known Turkish localities with regard to the literature. The specimens examined were similar to P. siculus hieroglyphicus specimens mentioned in the literature.
Illum, A. & Kristensen, H.V. (2009) -
Ineich, I. (2001) -
Ineich, I. & Chenevier, R. & Chenevier, P. & Magnouloux, M. (2022) -
We here report the observation of a complete sequence of cannibalism by an adult male on a juvenile of the lacertid Podarcis muralis in the field in Haute-Savoie, a French department. That observation was not based on stomach contents as is often the case but was a visual observation which took place during most of the process from active prey capture to full prey ingestion during a time lapse of about 5 minutes. We here describe that observation and discuss its relevance for cannibalism occurrence in that species. A five minutes movie was made. Citizen science allowed that observation to be made widely available, and its potential as a new tool in natural history is highlighted.
Ineich, I. & Chirio, L. & Ascani, M. & Rabeil, T. & Newby, J. (2014) -
Abstract. A recent field trip to Niger allowed herpetological exploration of the Termit Massif (southeastern Tenere Desert), an area rarely visited by herpetologists. A total of 13 species were collected or observed, some typical of Saharan habitats and others related to more mesic Sahelian habitats. The later species are mostly restricted to temporary humid river beds locally called ‘kori’. Our field data were completed by observations made during several years in the frame of the ‘Project Sahelo- Saharan Antelopes’ (Sahara Conservation Fund) in the same area and neighbouring Tin Toumma and another mammal oriented field trip, confirming species occurrence and providing data for four additional species, thus totalling 17 species for the area. Note however that more species should be present and potential species are discussed. We here report the occurrence of Acanthodactylus senegalensis from the country by vouchers, thus confirming its considerable eastern extension only recently reported. Some ecomorphological external characters allowing easy distinction between Acanthodactylus longipes and A. senegalensis are provided. The most surprising feature of Termit Massif’s herpetofauna is the lack of numerous genera and species occurring Northwest of Termit at Aïr Massif and sometimes even in the southern part of the country (e.g. Uromastyx and Ptyodactylus). Such differences between Aïr and Termit herpetofaunas are explained by more arid conditions at the later place, the Aïr Mountains being an efficient barrier to clouds, thus offering more mesic habitats to its herpetofauna.
Ineich, I. & Doronin, I. (2017) -
Ineich, I. & Doronin, I. & Lescure, J. (2017) -
The life and work of the Alsatian Louis Amédée Lantz (1886-1953), a pioneer of European herpetology. A trained and professional research-chemist, the Alsatian Louis Amédée Lantz was an active and particularly dynamic herpetologist. His residence of nearly twelve years in Russia enabled him to make several field trips to regions such as the Caucasus and Iran. He always carried with him a home made telescopic net that he used to catch lizards. That net became symbolic of Lantz for most people around him. He realized significant herpetological collections mainly deposited in the Museum of the Zoology Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences in St. Petersburg. Soon after the Russian Revolution in 1917, he had to leave the country and stayed for a few years in France before joining England. During this period, Lantz visited the French Pyrenees and the Mediterranean border (Hyeres Islands, Bandol), enabling him to discover for the first time oviparous populations of common lizard and also to describe a new species of lizard from the French Pyrenees. Lantz is also at the origin of the discovery of unisexual reproduction by parthenogenesis in reptiles. His collaboration with the Swedish amateur herpetologist Otto Cyrén, whom he met through the German herpetologist Willy Wolterstorff, was particularly successful throughout his career. Lantz died at the age of 66 years, in Switzerland, as he was about to join the team of herpetologists at the Natural History Museum in Paris.
Ineich, I. & Doronin, I.V. (2019) -
Several recent papers have reviewed the life and work of French herpetologist Louis Amédée Lantz. They have detailed the composition of his collections deposited in several museums. However, since then, several other im- portant specimens from his collections have come to light. We here identify the syntypes of Eremias zarudnyi Lantz, 1928, which were located in Russia. We provide data on the type series, an English translation of the French description of E. zarudnyi and designate and describe a lectotype for the species.
Ineich, I. & Doronin, I.V. & Cheylan, M. & Campbell, P.D. (2019) -
Several recent papers have reviewed the life and work of French herpetologist Louis Amédée Lantz. They have detailed the composition of his collections deposited in several museums. However, since then, several other important specimens from his collections deposited at the Natural History Museum (NHM, UK) have come to light and we here present all of them in detail. We discovered paralectotypes of Lacerta saxicola obscura Lantz & Cyrén (BMNH 1918.11.21.5–7), syntypes of Lacerta boemica Sukhov (BMNH 1960.1.4.26–30, BMNH 1965.337–342) and Lacerta viridis media Lantz & Cyrén (BMNH 1960.1.4.25, 1966.512). We also identified numerous specimens from the French Mediterranean islands in Lantz’s collection deposited at the NHM, some of which represent the first reported specimens of their species from certain islands. We here provide data on all these specimens. We also place the Mediterranean island specimens from the Lantz collection in their historical context and emphasize the historical and taxonomic value of these collections.
Ineich, I. & Le Garff, B. (2015) -
A lizard specimen recently collected from Gabon can not be assigned to any known species for the country. It is identified as Ichnotropis bivittata, a lacertid previouslnot reported for the country. The specimen is described in details and compared to related species. An older specimen examined by Boulenger (1921) was collected in the same area but not identified as from Gabon since the country was not always with the same borders and under the name `Congo français`.
Ingle, M. & Yadav, U. & Bhilala, A.K. & Pawar, M. (2019) -
This paper presents a herpetofaunal inventory of the urban city of Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh along with major threats existing in the study area, snake-human conflict and conservation steps taken. Herpetofaunal population in degraded while urban habitat is essential for their long term conservation measures. A total of 39 species of reptiles and amphibians representing 15 families were detected with special account of Argyrogena fasciolata, Wallophis brachyurus, Lycodon aulicus, Ptyas mucosa, Xenochrophis piscator, and Lygosoma lineatum. Snakes were the most collected reptilian species, while Amphibians comprised the little group of the sample. Reptile Conservation & Research Centre is established in the city by Sarpa Anusandhan Sangthan to minimize the snake-human conflict and to educate and familiarise people with them.
Ingram, G.A. & Molyneux, D.H. (1983) -
European green lizards, Lacerta viridis, produced relatively thermostable, dithiothreitol-sensitive, non-precipitating, agglutinins and complement-fixing antibodies (CFA) to Leishmania agamae administered subcutaneously (SC), intraperitoneally (IP) or orally (OR). Antibodies were also detected by the immobilization test (IMM) and by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The most sensitive method for the detection of stimulated immunoglobulins was ELISA. Antibodies were detected as early as 3 days post-infection with ELISA and between 5 and 7 for CFA, direct agglutination (DA) and indirect haemagglutination (IHA). In the case of IMM, the times of first detection varied from 14 to 28 days. Maximum CFA (2-*), DA (2-9, IHA (2-`) and ELISA (2-16) titres were reached from 42 to 49 days with significantly higher values occurring in the OR and IP groups. With IMM, maxima occurred after 5 or 6 weeks. Following exposure, two- to five-fold significant increases in serum lysozyme levels were demonstrated but the concentrations in sera following SC, IP or OR routes of antigen administration were not significantly different when the groups were compared with each other. The highest lysozyme values (approximately 12.3-12.5 pgml-`) were found in the SC and OR groups when compared to the IP (7.40pgml-I).
Ingram, G.A. & Molyneux, D.H. (1984) -
European green lizards (Lacerta viridis) were injected intraperitoneally, subcutaneously or orally with viable Leishmania agamae promastigotes. Neither promastigotes nor amastigotes were later found in blood and tissue impression smears, or in blood and selected organ cultures. However, by the use of an immunoperoxidase technique, parasite antigens were detected in the liver, stomach, small intestine, kidney, gonad, heart, lung and skin but not in the bone marrow, brain or spleen. Non-precipitating antibodies with beta 2-electrophoretic mobility were induced against L. agamae. They were detected in the sera by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay 3-7 days post-infection. The titres increased significantly above background levels (P less than 0.001) and reached maxima after 6-7 weeks, with 27 out of 29 lizards producing antibodies. The mean serum protein concentration significantly increased after infection (P less than 0.005) with no significant differences in mean values between male and female animals. Lizard sera separated into 7 components on cellulose acetate membranes with migration rates comparable to albumin, alpha- and beta-globulins of human serum; gamma-globulins were absent. Significant decreases occurred (P less than 0.05) in the albumin fraction, with significant increases in the beta-globulin region of anti-L. agamae sera. C-reactive protein was not detected in either normal or immune lizard sera.
Innocenti, A. & Bertolucci, C. & Minutini, L. & Foa, A. (1996) -
To establish whether the effects of pinealectomy on circadian locomotor rhythmicity vary with season, we examined, in constant temperature and darkness, the locomotor behaviour of ruin lizards Podarcis sicula collected and subjected to pinealectomy at different times of the year. Changes in the freerunning period in response to pinealectomy were found to be significantly greater in summer than in winter, spring and autumn. Circadian activity time changed significantly in response to pinealectomy only in spring and summer. Furthermore, while pinealectomy was effective in altering the locomotor rhythms of all individual lizards tested in summer, the same surgery was found to leave locomotor rhythmicity of many lizards tested in autumn and winter completely undisturbed. These results demonstrate for the first time in a non-mammalian vertebrate that the pineal gland is centrally involved in determining circadian organization in some seasons and is only marginally involved in others.
Innocenti, A. & Minutini, L. & Foà, A. (1994) -
Seasonal differences in the locomotor activity pattern of Podarcis sicula held in constant conditions in the laboratory were found to be associated with systematic differences in both the freerunning period of locomotor rhythms () and the circadian activity time (). In order to establish whether the pineal played a role in the control of seasonal changes in circadian parameters, we examined the effects of pinealectomy in constant conditions on the locomotor behavior of lizards displaying the bimodal activity pattern typical of summer. In most lizards pinealectomy lengthened , shortened and abolished the bimodal activity pattern. Pinealectomy induced a sudden transition from the typical locomotor behavior of summer, characterized by a marked bimodal pattern, short and long , to the typical locomotor behavior of autumn, characterized by a unimodal pattern, a long and short . These results demonstrate that the pineal plays a central role in the seasonal reorganization of the circadian system that occurs in P. sicula.
International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature (2020) -
The International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature has conserved the names Iberolacerta and Darevskia for two genera of lacertid lizards by confirming their availability from Arribas (1999). The microfiche publication (Arribas, 1997) is confirmed as unavailable and placed on the Official Index of Rejected and Invalid Works in Zoological Nomenclature. The name Caucasilacerta Harris, Arnold & Thomas, 1998 is confirmed as a nomen nudum and placed on the Official Index of Rejected and Invalid Generic Names in Zoology.
Inukai, T. (1927) -
Inukai, T. (1930) -
Inukai, T. (1938) -
Ioannides, Y. & Dimaki, M. & Dimitropoulos, A.. (1994) -
Ioannidis, Y. & Bousbouras, D. (1997) -
In the first part of this paper data are presented onthe habitat segregation of the reptile species of LakePrespa National Park. Twenty species of reptiles arepresent in the study area. Most of them are ofEast-Mediterranean origin, some are Balkan endemicsand a few are of northern origin. Systematic surveysand counts of reptiles were conducted in each of thefollowing habitats: marshes and reedbeds, wet meadows,rocky coastal areas and sandy beaches, cultivatedland, grazing lands, mixed deciduous, oak and beechforests, sub-alpine and alpine meadows. A list isprovided of the typical reptile species occurring ineach of these habitats, with notes on abundance andhabits. The highest reptilian diversity was found inman-made/modified habitats, namely the farmland zone,which structurally is the more diversified. There wasa dramatic fall of species richness with increasingaltitude. The second part of the paper describesqualitative differences in habitat utilization amongthe members of the two major reptilian groups, lizardsand snakes. The Sand Lizard Lacerta agilis isfound exclusively in the alpine and subalpinegrasslands above 1600 m. asl., the Common Wall LizardPodarcis muralis is the more euryecous while allother Lacertids show a clear specialization in habitatuse though retaining various degrees of overlap. Amongsnakes the Adder Vipera berus is restricted tohigh mountain grasslands, the two Natrix speciesare common and more or less confined to areas close tothe lakes while the Nose-horned Viper Viperaanmmodytes the third commonest species of the areaprefers rocky/stony slopes.The notes on habitatutilization by the remaining species of snakes areonly of indicative value because of small number ofobservations.
Iraeta Gascón, P. (2012) -
Life-history strategies may be defined as co-adapted suites of traits that determine the variations in fecundity and survivorship throughout the life of organisms. These strategies have been shaped by natural selection to maximize reproductive success in a particular environment. In widely distributed species, it is therefore expected to find interpopulation differences in life-history strategies, due to the particular environmental conditions experienced by different populations. Here, we analyze the differences in phenotypic traits –life-history strategies, antipredatory behavior, and morphology– between two populations of the Large Psammodromus Psammodromus algirus (a lacertid lizard from the western Mediterranean basin) separated by 600-700 m along an elevational gradient. Low-elevation females, in order to ensure the survival of their offspring under the harsh conditions of xeric Mediterranean lowlands, are constrained to perform a higher per-offspring investment than females from the high-elevation site, where food availability is higher and the intensity of the summer drought is lower; this implies trading larger clutches for larger offspring. On the other hand, low-elevation hatchlings are able to grow faster under different conditions of food availability both in the field and under a ‘common-garden’ design, and they are also able to remain inactive if the conditions are too harsh to compensate the metabolic and predation-risk costs of activity. However, high-elevation juveniles, due to higher food abundance at the highelevation site, are able to grow faster and attain a larger size as adults, especially in the case of females. Between-populations differences in habitat structure may have shaped the antipredatory behavior of gravid females; at the low-elevation site, with lower refuge availability, gravid females run more slowly, they cover shorter distances, and they spend more time sheltered or near refuges. Males, probably due to the higher intensity of sexual selection pressures at the low-elevation site, also show morphological differences. Low-elevation males have longer hind limbs, more and larger femoral pores, and a more intense nuptial coloration, which might contribute to optimize intraspecific communication in an environment with drier, hotter conditions (and probably with higher visibility). To summarize, in this PhD thesis we argue that current phenotypic variation seems to maximize reproductive success in the two populations studied, revealing their ability to adjust their reproductive characteristics and life-history strategies to the challenges posed by environmental variation along a Mediterranean elevational gradient.
Iraeta-Gascón, P. (2012) -
Iraeta, J.A. & Diaz, J.A. & Bauwens. D. (2007) -
Oviposition site choice, which is one of the most important forms of parental care in oviparous reptiles, has major effects on incubation duration, reproductive success, and offspring phenotype. We determined the thermal characteristics of nest-sites selected by females of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus in laboratory thermal gradients, and we linked results with information on the effects of temperature on incubation times and hatchling phenotypes. Temperatures at oviposition sites (mean 6 SD 5 26.0 6 1.9uC) were on average lower and had a lower variance than those at available sites (32.0 6 6.2uC). The duration of incubation decreased dramatically as temperature increased. In fact, the hatching dates predicted by the temperatures selected in the thermogradients were delayed with respect to the mean emergence dates observed in the field. Such disparity might occur because (1) natural incubation temperatures are variable rather than constant, (2) they are expected to rise later in the season, and (3) temperatures that are too high can severely compromise embryonic survival. In addition, females might select relatively low nest-site temperatures because hatching too early can force juveniles to face limited growth opportunities caused by food shortage in the Mediterranean environments in which they live.
Iraeta, P. & Monasterio, C. & Salvador, A. & Diaz, J.A. (2006) -
1. In reptiles, growth is subject to proximate environmental influences, such as food availability and temperature, that may be crucial during the early stages of postnatal development. Mediterranean regions, with their severe summer drought, offer an excellent opportunity to examine the effects of environmental variations in precipitation and productivity on the timing of reproduction and growth rates of lizards. 2. In this study, we compared the incubation time, size at hatching, growth rates and changes in juvenile body condition of two nearby populations of the lizard Psammodromus algirus separated by 600–700 m altitude in central Spain. We combined a reciprocal incubation experiment at 27 and 30 ° C with a reciprocal transplant experiment to distinguish between environmental and population-specific sources of geographical variation. 3. At both temperatures, eggs from the high-elevation site hatched sooner. Several important phenotypic traits of juveniles were primarily determined by the growing environment: the high-elevation site provided more food and allowed hatchlings to grow faster and reach larger size. 4. Environmental effects overrode familial ones, as shown by the larger growth rate of half-sibs released at the high-elevation site. However, both the size and the growth rate of juveniles were also influenced by their mother’s site of origin, which means that population differences may reflect a genetic differentiation and/or different maternal effects. 5. Low precipitation and associated food scarcity were seemingly the main factors constraining the growth rates of juveniles at the lowland site.
Iraeta, P. & Monasterio, C. & Salvador, A. & Diaz, J.A. (2011) -
Intraspecific variation in morphology has often been related to fitness differences through its effects on performance. In lizards, variation in hind limb length can be shaped by natural selection for increased locomotor performance, sexual selection on the number or size of femoral pores involved in chemical signalling, or both. Here, we analyse the selective forces involved in sexual dimorphism and differences in hind limb length between two populations of Psammodromus algirus living at different elevation. Males were more robust and had longer hind limbs and limb segments than females, and low-elevation lizards had longer limbs than high-elevation lizards. However, differences in locomotor performance were small and non-significant, making natural selection for faster runs an unlikely explanation for the observed pattern. On the other hand, males had more femoral pores than females, and lizards had more pores at lower elevation, although the difference was significant only for males (which invest more in chemical signalling). In males, the number of pores, which remains constant along a lizard`s life, was not correlated with hind limb length. However, femur length was positively correlated with mean pore size, allowing low-elevation males to have larger than expected pores, which could increase the effectiveness with which they spread their signals in a dry and warm habitat where chemicals become volatile rapidly. Also, saturation of the sexual coloration of the head was higher for low-elevation males, suggesting that sexual selection pressures may be more intense. Overall, our results indicate that sexual selection plays a significant role in shaping intraspecific variation in hind limb length.
Iraeta, P. & Salvador, A. & Diaz, J.A. (2008) -
Natural populations of the same species living in dif-ferent environments can differ in their life history traits as a response to variations in environmental conditions such as climate, food availability, or predator abundance (Martin, 1995; Shine, 2005; Brown & Shine, 2006). Among the characteristics that vary along environmental gradients (e.g., latitudinal or altitudinal), clutch size, offspring size, growth rate, and size and age at maturity are crucial to understand-ing the ecology and distribution of animals. Reptiles provide excellent model systems for studying the evolution of these Abstract: We examined activity rates prior to hibernation, age-adjusted body size, growth rates, and probability of recapture after spring emergence of juveniles from 2 populations of the lizard Psammodromus algirus separated by 600–700 m altitude. We captured gravid females, incubated the eggs, and released the juveniles into the wild. We used a reciprocal transplant design in a year of severe drought to distinguish between environmental and population-specific sources of variation. The levels of autumn activity differed between release sites (activity was higher at the more productive, high-elevation site) and between maternal sites of origin (at the low-elevation site, juveniles of low-elevation origin were less active than those of high-elevation origin). Although clutch mass was similar at both sites, eggs from low-elevation females were larger but fewer than those from high-elevation ones. Larger juveniles and those from high-elevation clutches had higher survival rates. The juveniles recaptured in autumn at the low-elevation site were smaller as neonates than those that were not recaptured until next spring. Our results suggest that the scarcity of prey at the low-elevation site is a selective pressure resulting in limitation of activity, given the increased energy expenditure and risk of predation incurred by active lizards. Thus, at the low-elevation site inactivity would be advantageous for most juveniles, and only the smaller ones would have to remain active frequently enough to accumulate sufficient reserves prior to hibernation. This is consistent with the selective advantage of large eggs (and small clutches) at the low-elevation site.
Iraeta, P. & Salvador, A. & Diaz, J.A. (2010) -
Iraeta, P. & Salvador, A. & Diaz, J.A. (2012) -
Tail autotomy has clear advantages regarding predator escape, but it also has several associated costs (i.e., impaired locomotion, loss of social status, and reduced growth and reproductive output). We examined the costs of severe autotomy on growth rates of hatchlings of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus during the first weeks of postnatal development. Hatchlings from two populations in central Spain were autotomized on the fifth day after hatching and kept in common garden conditions for 35 days when they were measured again. Hatchlings from both populations, independently of the autotomy treatment, did not differ in the mass gained during the experiment. However, there were differences in body growth between tailless and tailed hatchlings; tailless hatchlings grew at a slower rate than tailed ones, after controlling for the effects of body condition at the onset of the experiment and the resources assimilated. Moreover, independently of their population of origin, hatchlings that invested more in body growth also invested more in regenerating their tails, and no trade-offs were apparent. Because hatchlings were housed in common garden conditions, this result could be attributable to differences in individual capacity to obtain and assimilate resources.
The trade-off between clutch and offspring size, which is a central topic in life-history research, is shaped by natural selection to maximize the number of surviving offspring, but it also depends on the resources available for reproduction. Conspecific populations living in different environments may differ in adult body size, clutch mass, clutch size, offspring size, and/or post-natal growth rates, due either to phenotypic plasticity or to local adaptation. Here, we compare these traits and their relationships between two populations of the lizard Psammodromus algirus separated by a 600-m altitudinal gradient. We used a common garden design to control incubation temperature and food availability, with two different feeding treatments. Females were larger at the high-elevation site. Although SVL-adjusted clutch mass did not differ between populations, high-elevation females laid more but smaller eggs than low-elevation ones. Hatchlings were larger at lower elevation. Our common garden experiment revealed that low-elevation hatchlings grew faster than high-elevation hatchlings under both feeding treatments. However, higher food availability at higher altitude allows high-elevation lizards to grow faster and attain larger adult sizes, especially in the case of females. The two key adaptations of low-elevation lizards, large eggs and hatchlings and the ability to grow rapidly after hatching, are likely to enhance survival in low-productivity Mediterranean lowlands. Our data support the hypothesis that the reproductive strategies of these populations provide an example of countergradient variation, because the genotypes that encode for fast growth and large body size occurred in low food availability habitats where juveniles grew slowly and attained small adult sizes.
Iraeta, P. & Salvador, A. & Monasterio, C. & Díaz, J.A. (2010) -
In lizards, locomotor costs of gravidity may depend on habitat structure and refuge availability. We compared the locomotor performance and escape tactics in the laboratory, before and after oviposition, of two populations of Psammodromus algirus separated by 700 m altitude. When gravid, females escaped using a larger number of slower and shorter runs, and had lower temperatures at the time of trial, than after oviposition. Some of these effects differed between populations: when gravid, but not after oviposition, low-elevation females ran shorter distances at a slower average speed than high-elevation ones. Low-elevation females laid their clutches earlier than high-elevation ones, which conditioned their lower speed when gravid in simultaneous running trials. However, their escape distances were still shorter after controlling for the effects of temperature and laying date. In the field, refuge availability was lower at the low-elevation site, where females spent more time inside refuges and perching above ground. The shorter escape distance of low-elevation females may, thus, represent a behavioural response to minimize detectability, especially if predator avoidance depends primarily on whether or not the lizard is seen by the predator. Such behavioural adjustments might inhibit selection for evolutionary shifts in the performance of gravid females.
Iret, F. & Baran, I. (2001) -
The present study was carried out on the taxonomical status of Ophisops elegans obtained from the vicinity of Izmir and Afyon (Sandikh), in Turkey. The specimens obtained from the localities mentioned above were analysed in detail in terms of pholidosis, morphometrical measurements and related ratios, and colour/pattern characteristics. It was established that the populations of Izmir and Afyon are similar and Afyon material could be regarded as Ophisops elegans macrodactylus.
Bu araştırmada İzmir ve Afyon (Sandıklı) civarından temin edilen kertenkele türü, Ophisops elegans (Squamata: Lacertidae) materyali taksonomik yönden incelenmiştir. Adı geçen bölgelere ait populasyonlarfolidosis özellikleri, vücut ölçü ve oranları, renk ve desen bakımından detaylı olarak karşılaştırılmıştır. Yapılan taksonomik inceleme sonucunda Afyon ve İzmir Ophisops elegans popülasyonlarının birbirine benzer olduğu saptanmıştır. Tüm özellikleri bakımından İzmir materyaline benzeyen Afyon örneklerinin Ophisops elegans macrodactylus alttürüne dahil edilebileceği sonucuna varılmıştır.
Irish Wildlife Trust (2007) -
Irschick, D.J. & Herrel, A. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Huyghe, K. & Van Damme, R. (2005) -
A key assumption in evolutionary studies of locomotor adaptation is that standard laboratory measures of performance accurately reflect what animals do under natural circumstances. One widely examined measure of performance is maximum sprint speed, which is believed to be important for eluding predators, capturing prey, and defending territories. Previous studies linking maximum sprint speed to fitness have focused on laboratory measurements, and we suggest that such analyses may be appropriate for some species and intraspecific classes, but not others. We provide evidence for a general inverse relationship between maximum laboratory sprint speed and the percentage of maximum capacity that animals use when escaping from a threat in the field (the model of locomotor compensation). Further, absolute values of field escape speed and maximum laboratory speed are not significantly related when comparing across a diverse group of Anolis and lacertid lizards. We show that this pattern of locomotor compensation holds both within (i.e., among intraspecific classes) and among lizard species (with some exceptions). We propose a simple method of plotting field escape speed (y-axis) versus maximum laboratory speed (x-axis) among species and/or intraspecific classes that allows researchers to determine whether their study organisms are good candidates for relating laboratory performance to fitness. We suggest that species that reside directly on, or near the `best fitness line` (field escape speed = maximum laboratory speed) are most likely to bear fruit for such studies.
Iryshkov, E. & Nikolaev, O. & Kropachev, I. & Galoyan, E. (2024) -
Since individual metapolic activity depends on body temperature, maintaining this temperature within the optimal range is important for living organisms. Behavioural adaptations allow body temperature to stay within a narrow range. Huddling helps animals conserve energy more efficiently and improves environmental adaptability under cold conditions. Rock lizards of the Darevskia genus also actively engage in huddling on basking sites; thermoregulation, however, has not been previously considered as a possible reason for their grouping. We hypothesise that lizard aggregations might help to maintain body temperature in cold conditions. To test this suggestion, we conducted route surveys in an area with a high population density of two coexisting Darevskia species and determined the influence of external conditions on grouping behaviour. We found that the number of lizard groups and the number of individuals per group are significantly larger in cloudy weather and low irradiance than in sunny weather and high irradiance. Correlation analyses did not show a significant effect of air temperature and wind speed on the formation of groups. We suggest that small lizards huddle during poor irradiance to maintain internal body temperature and prolong their activity.
Iryshkov, E.S. & Solovyeva, E.N. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Moaddab, M. & Milto, K.D. & Galoyan, E.A. (2023) -
Rock lizards of the genus Darevskia have long been an important model object for study of reptile evolution. To understand the overall picture, it is important to know how bisexual and parthenogenetic species are distributed within this genus. The ranges of Caucasian species of rock lizards have been studied for a long time and in detail. However, recent attention to the species inhabiting the territory of Iran has been attracted after the description of several new species in 2013. As part of the continuation of these studies, we studied the distribution and ge- netic diversity of five species of lizards of the Darevskia genus along the Alborz mountain range in Iran: D. chlorogaster, D. caspica, D. defilippii, D. schaekeli and D. raddei. In the course of this,wediscoverednewlocalitiesof D.defilippiithatareoutsidetheirknownrange.Weassessed the phylogenetic relationships between the studied species according to the ND4 – Leu tRNA region of mitochondrial DNA and found a relatively high level of genetic variability in D. defilippii and D. chlorogaster, while D. raddei, despite its wide distribution, has low variabi- lity. In general, the phylogenetic position of the studied species is somewhat different from that described by Ahmadzadeh et al. (2013).
Isaacs, S. (2009) -
Isailovic, J.C. & Vogrin, M. & Corti, C. & Medllado, V.P. & Sá Sousa, P. & Cheylan, M. & Pleguezuelos, J. (2006) -
Ishida, K. & Saito, M. & Makino, Y. & Kubota, S. & Kohno, S.-I. (1998) -
Ishihara, S. (1964) -
Ishihara, S. (1969) -
Ishihara, S. (1971) -
Ishihara, S. (1973) -
Ishihara, S. (1975) -
石 原 重 厚 (1975) -
Iskenderov, T.M. & Doronin, I.V. & Mustafayeva, G.A. & Kulieva, A.M. (2020) -
Information on the first discovery of the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus campestris (De Betta 1857), in2019 is provided for Turkan settlement, Baku City, Azerbaijan. The lizards are assumed to have unintention-ally been delivered to the Caucasus from Tuscany Province, Italy in 2016 or 2017 with garden plant seedlings. In the future the identified P. s i c u l u s micropopulation may become a source for the colonization of the Ab-sheron Peninsula by this non-indigenous reptile species. We do not expect a negative impact of P. siculus onthe aboriginal saurofauna.
Information on the first discovery of the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus campestris (De Betta 1857), in 2019 is provided for Turkan settlement, Baku City, Azerbaijan. The lizards are assumed to have unintention- ally been delivered to the Caucasus from Tuscany Province, Italy in 2016 or 2017 with garden plant seedlings. In the future the identified P. siculus micropopulation may become a source for the colonization of the Ab- sheron Peninsula by this non-indigenous reptile species. We do not expect a negative impact of P. siculus on the aboriginal saurofauna.
Т.М. Искендеровa, И.В. Доронинb, Г.А. Мустафаеваa & А.М. Кулиева (2020) -
Iskenderov, T.M. & Gasimova, G.A. & Bunyatova S.N. (2023) -
Islam, M. & Saikia, P.K. (2013) -
Itämies, J. & Koskela, P. (1971) -
Itescu, Y. & Foufopoulos, J. & Pafilis, P. Meiri, S. (2019) -
Aim Isolation is a key factor in island biology. It is usually defined as the distance to the geographically nearest mainland, but many other definitions exist. We explored how testing different isolation indices affects the inference of impacts of isolation on faunal characteristics. We focused on land bridge islands and compared the relationships of many spatial and temporal (i.e., through time) isolation indices with community‐, population‐ and individual‐level characteristics (species richness, population density and body size, respectively). Location Aegean Sea islands, Greece. Time period Current. Taxon Many animal taxa. Methods We estimated 21 isolation indices for 205 islands and recorded species richness data for 15 taxa (invertebrates and vertebrates). We obtained body size data for seven lizard species and population density data for three. We explored how well indices predict each characteristic, in each taxon, by conducting a series of ordinary least squares regressions (controlling for island area when needed) and a meta‐analysis. Results Isolation was significantly (and negatively) associated with species richness in 10 of 15 taxa. It was significantly (and positively) associated with body size in only one of seven species and was not associated with population density. The effect of isolation on species richness was much weaker than that of island area, regardless of the index tested. Spatial indices generally out‐performed temporal indices, and indices directly related to the mainland out‐performed those related mainly to neighbouring islands. No index was universally superior to others, including the distance to the geographically nearest mainland. Main conclusions The choice of index can alter our perception of the impacts of isolation on biological patterns. The nearly automatic, ubiquitous use of distance to the geographically nearest mainland misrepresents the complexity of the effects of isolation. We recommend the simultaneous testing of several indices that represent different aspects of isolation, in order to produce more constructive and thorough investigations and avoid imprecise inference.
Itescu, Y. & Foufopoulos, J. & Schwarz, R. & Lymberakis, P. & Slavenko, A. & Gavriilidi, I.A. & Meiri, S. & Pafilis, P. (2021) -
Body size evolution on islands is widely studied and hotly debated. Gigantism and dwarfism are thought to evolve under strong natural selection, especially on small remote islands. We report a curious co-occurrence of both dwarf and giant lizards on the same small, remote island (Plakida): the largest Podarcis erhardii (Lacertidae) and smallest Mediodactylus kotschyi sensu lato; Gekkonidae--the two commonest insular reptiles in the Aegean Sea. The geckos of Plakida have a peculiar tail-waving behavior, documented here for the first time in this genus. We suspect that P. erhardii evolved large size to consume geckos and the geckos evolved a unique tail-waving behavior as a defensive mechanism.
Itescu, Y. & Meiri, S. (2013) -
Body condition of animals has an important effect on their fitness. An individual in good body condition has better chances of survival and reproduction than an animal with poor body condition. A commonly used measure for assessing body condition is the residuals of a regression of the body mass of an animal against its body size. The larger the residual, the better the condition of the animal is. Body mass may reflect the reproductive or nutritional state of an individual. It can be affected by biotic interactions. Predation pressure, for example, may limit foraging time. Cold climate or little rainfall may also limit foraging possibilities. Only a few studies addressed the geographic determinants of body condition in ectotherms. We tested the effects of climate and topography on body condition of lacertid lizards in Israel and the adjacent Sinai Desert (Egypt). This region shows a sharp north to south gradient of temperatures and precipitation, as well as considerable topographic variability, which also affects climate. We tested the effects of mean annual temperature, mean annual precipitation, net primary productivity (NPP) and altitude on lacertid body condition. We collected field and museum data for 1400 specimens, representing 13 species in four lacertid genera. Our results suggest that the body condition is better in hot, dry and low elevation areas. The effect of resource availability (represented by NPP rates) was non-significant. We suggest that these conditions allow lower energetic cost for activity, and more foraging time. These result in higher energetic reserves and thus a higher body mass for a given length.
Itescu, Y. & Schwarz, R. & Donihue, C.M. & Slavenko, A. & Roussos, S.A. & Sagomas. K. & Valakos, E.D. & Foufopoulos, J. & Pafilis, P. & Meiri, S. (2018) -
Aim: Animal body sizes are often remarkably variable across islands, but despite much research we still have a poor understanding of both the patterns and the drivers of body size evolution. Theory predicts that interspecific competition and predation pressures are relaxed on small, remote islands, and that these conditions promote body size evolution. We studied body size variation across multiple insular populations of 16 reptile species co-occurring in the same archipelago and tested which island characteristics primarily drive body size evolution, the nature of the common patterns, and whether co-occurring species respond in a similar manner to insular conditions. Location: Aegean Sea islands. Time period: 1984–2016. Major taxa studied: Reptiles. Methods: We combined fieldwork, museum measurements and a comprehensive literature survey to collect data on nearly 10,000 individuals, representing eight lizard and eight snake species across 273 islands. We also quantified a large array of predictors to assess directly the effects of island area, isolation (both spatial and temporal), predation and interspecific competition on body size evolution. We used linear models and meta-analyses to determine which predictors are informative for all reptiles, for lizards and snakes separately, and for each species. Results: Body size varies with different predictors across the species we studied, and patterns differ within families and between lizards and snakes. Each predictor influenced body size in at least one species, but no general trend was recovered. As a group, lizards are hardly affected by any of the predictors we tested, whereas snake size generally increases with area and with competitor and predator richness, and decreases with isolation. Main conclusions: No factor emerges as a predominant driver of Aegean reptile sizes. This contradicts theories of general body size evolutionary trajectories on islands. We conclude that overarching generalizations oversimplify patterns and processes of reptile body size evolution on islands. Instead, species’ autecology and island particularities interact to drive the course of size evolution.
IUCN Bangladesh (2015) -
Ivanov, V.G. & Bogdanov, D.P. & Anisimova, E.Y. & Fedorova, T.A. (1973) -
Ivanov, V.G. & Federova, T.A. (1970) -
Ivanov, V.G. & Federova, T.A. (1973) -
Ivanova, N.N. (1985) -
Ivanusic, V. (2022) -
Italian wall lizard belongs to the class Reptilia, which includes the first terrestrial members of the Vertebrate family. This species is adaptable to various habitat conditions and can be found in a wide area of distribution. Because of its abundance and adaptability, it is considered to be a good model for studying lizard behavior. The aim of this thesis was to determine whether there are differences in exploratory behavior and neophobia between individuals who were exposed to social contact in adulthood and those who were not exposed to social contact. After maturation, a group of social individuals was exposed to contact with an individual of the opposite sex for a month, while a group of nonsocial individuals was not exposed to any contact. Three open-field tests were performed on both groups of individuals: in the first test exploratory behavior in an unknown environment was observed; in the second test, activity in a familiar environment was observed and in the third test, neophobia in a familiar environment was observed. The research showed that there are no differences in exploratory behavior and neophobia between social and nonsocial groups of individuals.
Iversen, L. & Graff, H. (2000) -
Iwahashi, S. (1951) -
Iwasaki, S. & Miyata, K. (1985) -
Iwasaki, S.-I. & Miyata, K. & Kobayashi, K. (1985) -
Scanning electron microscopy was employed to investigate the ultrastructure of oral epithelialcells of the lizard, Takydromus tachydromoides. The specimens were prepared by a methodinvolving osmium postfixation and acid treatment to remove extracellular attached material. Bump-shaped protuberances were arranged symmetrically on both sides of the median line of thepalate. Epithelial surfaces besides the bump-shaped protuberances were widely covered with fine folds.At higher magnification, a network pattern of microridges was closely distributed over the entiresurface of the palate, and each cell marginal thickening was clear. The protuberances were alsoobserved in the latero-posterior region of the floor of the mouth. A number of nicks were arrangedsymmetrically on both sides along the median line of the fore-region of the floor. Taste buds werescattered in the epithelial surfaces between nicks. At higher magnification, microvilli as well as microridgeswere observed on the epithelial cell surfaces of the floor. There were no papillar structures onthe ventral tongue surface. Fine pits were densely distributed over the entire epithelial cellsurface. The cell margin was clearly distinguishable as a depressed line. The epithelial surface ofthe laryngeal part of the pharynx was entirely covered with ciliated cells. Taste buds were alsoscattered on the inner gingival epithelial surfaces of the upper and lower jaws along the dentalarches. Relatively indistinct microridges were widely distributed on the gingival epithelial cell surfaceof the upper jaw. Scrollwork and network patterns of microridges were clearly observed on the gin -gival epithelial surface of the lower jaw.
Izquierdo, I. & Medina, A.L. & Hernández, J.J. (1989) -
A new deposit of giant lacertids is described from a volcanic cave in the western part of El Hierro island. On the basis of an analysis of the 388 pieces found in this deposit, using both the literature and osteological material from Tenerife and El Hierro, it is concluded that three different species are represented: Gallotia goliath (Mertens), now extinct in the Canary Islands, Gallotia simonyi (Stein.) and Gallotia galloti caesaris (Lehrs). The two last species are still present on the island. The presence of G. goliath in this deposit represents the first record of this species in the island of El Hierro.
Jablokov, A.W. & Baranov, S.S. & Rozanov, A.S. (1980) -
Jablonski, D. (2011) -
In June 2007, 12 species of Amphibia and 19 species of Reptilia were found during investigations at 18 localities situated from sea level up to 1507 m a. s. l. in Albania. The highest number of amphibians (5) was recorded at Shelegurë, 1032 m a. s. l. and of reptiles (9) at Diviakë, 1–5 m a. s. l. The highest total number of species (5 amphibians and 6 reptiles) was recorded at Shelegurë. Testudo hermanni was the most abundant species of reptile recorded. Of the amphibians, Bombina variegata and Pelophylax ridibundus were also abundant and Podarcis muralis occurred at the highest locality (Llogarë, Cikës Mts., 1507 m a. s. l.). Herein, are presented new faunistic records for 11 species of Reptilia. From the zoogeographical point of view, 50.0% of the amphibians recorded are Mediterranean, 33.3% European and 16.7% Palaearctic species. Of the reptiles, 52.6% are Mediterranean, 15.8% European and 31.6% Palaearctic species. Mediterranean faunal elements are predominant in the batrachofauna and herpetofauna of Albania. Four of the amphibians recorded (Triturus macedonicus, Pelophylax epeiroticus, P. shqipericus, Rana graeca) and three reptiles (Algyroides nigropunctatus, Podarcis erhardii, Anguis graeca) are endemic to the Balkan Peninsula. An annotated list of all the species recorded in Albania in 2007 is presented.
Jablonski, D. & Christophoryová, J. (2016) -
Jablonski, D. & Grul`a, D. & Christophoryová, J. (2017) -
Jablonski, D. & Gvozdik, V. & Choleva, L. & Moravec, J. & Macat, Z. & Vesely, M. (2018) -
The maternal origin of isolated populations of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in the Czech Republic, representing the north-eastern range border of the species, was addressed. We compared mitochondrial DNA sequences of the cytochrome b gene of samples from these populations with those from within the continuous range in Slovakia, the northern Balkan region, and those available from previous studies. We recorded five main haplogroups in the studied region, with all available Central European samples belonging to the same haplogroup. The star-like structure of this haplogroup suggests a scenario of relatively recent, post-glacial population expansion, which is further supported by a coalescent-based demographic analysis. The presence of unique haplotypes in two of the three isolated Czech populations together with close phylogenetic relationships to adjacent Slovak populations suggests either autochthonous origin or human-mediated introductions from geographically and genetically closest populations. We therefore support conservation programs for all three isolated Czech populations.
Jablonski, D. & Jandzik, D. & Gvoždík, V. (2012) -
Bosnia and Herzegovina plays an important role for the diversity of herpetofauna of the Balkans. The composition of the amphibian and reptile fauna has been influenced by both continental and Mediterranean climate. So far, 18 species of amphibians and 29 species of reptiles have been found to inhabit the territory, but due to the overall neglected faunistic research of this region in the last decades, this is presumably not the final number. At 31 localities we observed 12 species of amphibians and 17 species of reptiles representing 66.7 and 58.6% of the total known diversity of amphibians and reptiles, respectively. We recorded new distribution data for 8 species of amphibians and 9 species of reptiles. A zoogeographic analysis showed that the herpetofauna of Bosnia and Herzegovina could be classified into at least 12 chorotypes. While the amphibian assemblages are predominantly influenced by the European temperate climatic conditions, the Mediterranean climate plays a key role for the composition of the reptile fauna.
Jablonski, D. & Khalili, F. & Masroor, R. (2023) -
Takhar Province of Afghanistan was previously known to harbour only two species of amphibians and eight species of reptiles with no record of snake species. From 2020 to 2021, we collected herpetological data from the Province and identified 14 species and specimens representing species complexes (Bufotes viridis complex and Trapelus agilis complex), with first records of Testudo hors fieldii (Testudinidae), Paralaudakia badakhshana (Agamidae), Pseudopus apodus (Anguidae), Tenuidactylus caspius (Gekkonidae), Eumeces schneideri (Scincidae) and Varanus griseus (Varanidae). In addition, we report the first province records of snakes, includ ing Eryx tataricus (Erycidae), Hemorrhois ravergieri (Colubridae), Natrix tessellata (Natricidae) and the venomous species Naja oxiana (Elapidae). These records connect and supplement previously obtained data of these species from surrounding provinces and neighbouring countries. Our data reveal that Takhar Province is home to at least 20 species of amphibians and reptiles with a strong affiliation to the Turanian chorotype. All these data are a significant source of information for the diversity of herpetofauna in Afghanistan and subsequent biodiversity research in the Central Asiatic region.
Jablonski, D. & Koleska, D. (2017) -
Jablonski, D. & Masroor, R. (2021) -
The presented paper reports on the first record of Eremias kakari Masroor, Khisroon, Khan, Jablonski, 2020 for Afghanistan based on morphological data obtained from one specimen stored for 49 years in the Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig, Bonn, Germany. Up to now, the species was known only from the type locality in Pakistani Balochistan.
Jablonski, D. & Regan, J.M. & Holzheusen, C. & Farooqi, J. & Basit, A. & Masroor, R. (2019) -
This study provides observation on 21 species of amphibians and reptiles obtained during various field trips in Afghanistan from 2007 to 2018. The core of this study is distributional data collected mostly by the second author of this paper that were systematically evaluated. Our records show a notable expansion of the current distribution range for several species and highlight the need for more extensive further sampling within the entire country. The first record of Cyrtopodion agamuroides (Nikolsky, 1900) complex for Afghanistan is presented here, increasing the number of herpetofauna in the country to 117 species.
Jablonski, D. & Stloukal, E. (2012) -
Jaca, J. & Nogales, M. & Traveset, A. (2018) -
Background and Aims Oceanic island ecosystems favor the appearance of novel interactions as a consequence of their depauperate and disharmonic flora and fauna. Echium simplex, endemic to the Anaga Biosphere Reserve in NE Tenerife, Canary Islands, belongs to the Canarian bird–flower element. Methods Along two flowering seasons, we studied its breeding system, identified the floral visitors, and compared the pollination effectiveness of different animal guilds (insects vs. vertebrates) by means of selective exclosures. Key Results The plant showed to be self‐compatible but selfing significantly reduced fruit set. The flowers were visited by five bird species (mostly Phylloscopus canariensis and Serinus canarius, but also Cyanistes teneriffae, Sylvia atricapilla and Sylvia melanocephala), a lizard species (Gallotia galloti), and over a hundred insect species (mainly hymenopterans and coleopterans). Flying insects increased fruit set whereas small flower dwellers (mostly beetles) decreased both fruit and seed set; by contrast, vertebrates had a negligible effect on reproductive success. Conclusions We conclude that despite the floral resources provided by E. simplex may be important to some vertebrate species, these do not appear to notably contribute to increase the fitness of the plant, which show to be more dependent upon flying insects to set fruits and seeds. We additionally found that plant reproductive structures are heavily damaged by feral goats, which threaten the maintenance of this Canarian endemic species.
Jackowiak, H. & Rupik, W. & Skieresz-Szewczyk, K. & Prozorowska, E. (2014) -
Jackson, D.R. & Telford, S.R. (1975) -
The Japanese lacertid Takydromus tachydromoides is an opportunistic, generalized predator; its diet consists chiefly of spiders and insects although other small arthropods and gastropods may be taken. Prey are lognormally distributed by size. Age-, season- and habitat-specific dietary differences are intimately related to the habits of this species. Such differences occur primarily in response to prey densities and are of adaptive value to the lizards. Most prominent among these differences is the ratio of insects to spiders in the diet. Competition between adult and juvenile lizards is reduced through partial nonoverlap of food resources and structural habitats. Takydromus displays certain aspects of predation recognized in the past predominantly from larger and better-known mammalian and reptilian carnivores. As a predator Takydromus probably exerts little limiting influence on its prey.
Jackson, H.C. (1978) -
The 6·5 h May isohel closely corresponds to the boundary of the sand lizard`s (Lacerta agilis L.) distribution in Britain. During the 1960s May sunshine in the north-west of England was significantly lower than in the previous two decades; this was not true of the south of England. This deterioration in sunshine may have been an important factor in the simultaneous decline of the sand lizard population on the Merseyside coast.
Jackson, H.C. (1979) -
The population of the sand lizard Lacerta agilis in northwest England has declined sharply since 1930. The reasons for this decline are considered. Between Southport and the River Alt, approximately 50% of the sand dune habitat has been destroyed and a further 12% modified since 1801. Habitat losses resulting from building developments help to explain the sand lizard decline. The species has also disappeared from areas still supporting dune habitat. Here a combination of factors appear responsible, the effects of which are not uniform throughout the dune system. It is concluded that, in conjunction with a trend of less favourable climate over the last 15 years, habitat destruction, fragmentation and change of quality have brought about a catastrophic decline in the sand lizard population within the last 20 years. It is predicted that this population will become extinct before 2000 unless present trends are halted and adequate conservation measures taken.
Jackson, H.C. & Yalden, D.W. (1977) -
Jacob, J.-P. (2011) -
Jacob, J.-P. & Percsy, C. & Wavrin, H. de & Graitson, E. & Kinet, T. & Denoel, M. & Paquay, M. & Percsy, N. & Remacle, A. (2007) -
Jacob, J.-P. & Remacle, A. (2007) -
Jacob, J.-P. & Remacle, A. (2013) -
Jacob, J.-P. & Remacle, A. (2015) -
Jacob, J.-P. & Remacle, A. (2016) -
Jacob, J.-P. & Remacle, A. (2017) -
Jacobi, L. (1935) -
Jacobi, L. (1936) -
Jacobs, V.L. (1968) -
Jacobs, V.L. (1979) -
The sensory fibers of the facial nerve in Lacerta viridis have been studied with a silver impregnation method to follow the course of axonal degeneration. Destruction of the geniculate ganglion demonstrated the degen- erated sensory component of the facial nerve adjacent to the anterior vestibular root. Within the lateral vestibular area the facial sensory fibers consist of numerous rootlets separated by vestibular fibers and cells. These rootlets may join to form a main or paired sensory tract that passes through the vestibular nuclei to enter the tractus solitarius and divide into a small ascending prefacial component and a major descending prevagal division. A few fibers continue into the postvagal part of tractus solitarius and extend caudally to terminate in the nucleus commissura infima. Prefacial fibers terminate along the periventricular gray while prevagal fibers terminate within the tractus solitarius on the dendrites of cells of nucleus tractus solitarius and near the periphery of the dorsal motor nucleus of X. There was no noticeable degeneration in the descendens tractus trigemini. Terminal degeneration to descendens nucleus trigemini and motor nucleus of VII followed the tractus solitarius course. Most facial sensory fibers are probably related to taste and other visceral information.
Jacobsen, N. (1978) -
Jacobsen, N.H.G. (1977) -
A survey of the distribution, status and general ecology of amphibians, reptiles and mammals was undertaken on the Nylsvley Nature Reserve, Transvaal from mid-1974 to mid-1977 as part of the South African Savanna Ecosystem Project. A total of 18 frog, 3 tortoise, 1 terrapin, 23 lizard, 1 amphisbaenid, 29 snake and 62 mammal species were recorded on the Reserve. As new additions continued to be made late in the survey, it is clear that the checklist is not yet complete.
Jacobsen, N.H.G. (1987) -
The staggered life cycles of I. squamulosa and the related species I. capensis are ascribed by Broadley (1979) to avoidance of competition. This paper dicusses this theory in the light of size, temporal and spatial distribution of the two species. Discussions on clutch size, time of laying and incubation period are incorporated.
Jacobsen, N.H.G. (1988) -
Jacobsen, N.H.G. (1989) -
Jacobsen, N.H.G. (1997) -
Jacobsen, N.H.G. & Pietersen, E.W. & Pietersen, D.W. (2010) -
This paper reports on and discusses the findings of a herpetofaunal survey of the San Sebastian Peninsula, Vilankulo, Mozambique. A total of 39 reptile and 20 amphibian species were recorded including new records for Mozambique, range extensions and taxa previously considered endemic to the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Jacquin, J.F. de (1787) -
Jagar, T. & Ostanek, E. (2011) -
Jagar, T. & Ostanek, E. (2013) -
Jäger, N. & Grose, W.-R. (2014) -
Die Herpetofauna des ehemaligen Kiessandtagebaus der Schönauer Lachen in Leipzig wird beschrieben. Dazu gibt es einen großen Fundus historischer und aktueller Daten, der in der Diskussion ausgewertet wird. Für das Untersuchungsgebiet sind insgesamt 11 Amphibien- und 4 Reptilienarten bekannt, von denen 7 Amphibien- und 3 Reptilienarten in den letzten drei Jahren nachgewiesen werden konnten. Hinzu kommt die Vermutung auf ein aktuelles Vorkommen von Lissotriton vulgaris. Von den aktuell nachgewiesenen Arten treten nur Pelophylax „esculentus“ und P. ridibundus in größeren Populationsstärken auf. Die übrigen Amphibien- und Reptilienarten scheinen nur Teilbereiche zu besiedeln und in kleineren Populationen aufzutreten; darunter die für das Stadtgebiet als „selten“ (Grosse & Tschierschke 2011) eingestuften Arten Bufo viridis und Hyla arborea. Das abundanzschwache Auftreten ökologisch anspruchsvollerer Amphibienarten ist vermutlich im Wesentlichen auf das geringe Angebot an herpetologisch wertvollen Strukturen und Biotopen zurückzuführen. Insbesondere unter der Berücksichtigung der abundanzschwachen Vorkommen von B. viridis und H. arborea sollten Maßnahmen zur Habitatverbesserung getroffen werden, um die Populationen auf Dauer erhalten zu können. Eine Habitatoptimierung würde weiterhin die (herpetologische) Bedeutung des geplanten LSG Schönauer Lachen für den Biotopverbund der Stadt Leipzig stärken und eine deutliche Aufwertung der Trittsteinfunktion zwischen dem nördlichen Auenwald (und Kleewinkel) und den Kulkwitzer Lachen darstellen. Die Aufwertung der Trittsteinfunktion wäre insbesondere für die Leipziger H. arborea- und Bombina bombina-Populationen von hoher Bedeutung.
Jäger, O. (2015) -
Die Vorkommen und Verteilung von Unterarten von Podarcis muralis in Stuttgart wird dargestellt. Auf den rechtlichen Rahmen von § 40 BNatSchG wird eingegangen und im Kontext von § 7 BNatSchG diskutiert. Die daraus getroffenen Ableitungen können als Handlungsanweisung für die Naturschutzverwaltung dienen.
Jahnke, J. & Jordan, C. & Wiegel, H. (1980) -
Jährling, F. & Junghanns, A. & Ortlieb, F. (2013) -
Jakob, R. (2012) -
Im Frühsommer des Jahres 2007 beobachtete ich auf einer Wiese im Wahnbachtal, einem Seitental der Sieg in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Zauneidechsen, welche sich auf dem Kadaver eines verendeten Rehes sonnten und dort auf Jagd gingen. Wanderverhalten der Art, eine bemerkenswerte Habitatstruktur, sowie eine außergewöhnliche Nahrungsquelle sollen hier beschrieben werden.
Jaksic, F.M. & Busack, S.D. (1984) -
Jambrich, A. (2006) -
Jambrich, A. & Jandzik, D. (2012) -
Melanism in the population of Zootoca vivipara pannonica (Lác and Kluch, 1968) at the type locality in Boťany, Východoslovenská nížina lowland, Slovakia was recorded. The frequency of melanism in the population was 2.5% and was higher in males (5.9%) than in females (0%). We assume that the different frequency of melanism in comparison with published data from other populations of Z. vivipara can be linked to habitat quality, as was previously hypothesized.
Jameson Jr., E.W. (1981) -
In Chapter 11 population structure was discussed in relation to reproduction. Reproduction is a major factor in changes in density, which in turn influence reproductive rates; this is one of the best known density-dependent phenomena. The density of a population reflects the interaction of communal physical and biotic elements. This chapter describes some examples of the relationships between community structure, exogenous factors and fluctuations in density.
Jammes Jr., Y. & Allison, A. (1976) -
1. a triphasic ventilatory rhythm associated with inspiratory movements of the throat. A highly significant correlation exists between breathing pause duration and preceding inspired volume. 2. a moderate efficiency of the lung-pharynx system, i.e. oxygen extraction coefficient was lower (9.3%) and convection requirement higher (1.40 mlBTPS/μmole) than those measured in other airbreathers. Body confinement procedure showed a cutaneous respiration, through a highly vascularized dermis, assuming 10% of overall O2 transfer and 16% of CO2.
Jan, G. (1865) -
Janet, A. (1915) -
Janev-Hutinec, B. (2001) -
Janev-Hutinec, B. & Karaica, D. (2010) -
Popularno-znanstveni priručnik koji sadržava podatke o koji opisuju stanje i distribuciju svih vrsta vodozemaca i gmazova unutar granica Parka prirode Medvednica. Također, zbog detaljnih opisa juvenilnih i odraslih oblika može poslužiti kao ključ za određivanje vrsta vodozemaca i gmazova.
Janev-Hutinec, B. & Kletečki, E. & Lazar, B. & Podnar-Lešić, M. & Skejić, J. & Tadić, Z. & Tvrtković, N. (2006) -
Jansen, E. (1983) -
Jansen, M. (1997) -
Jansen, M. (2002) -
Near Bad Orb (northem Spessart) ticks infestation in a mixed population of Lacerta agilis and Zootoca vivipara was studied between April and June. Ticks were numerous and all ofthe studied Jizards (33 individuals of Lacerta agilis, four individuals of Zootoca vivipara) were infested by the tick lxodes ricinus. The mean number of ticks per lizard was 31 in Lacerta agilis (0-101) and 16 in Zootoca vivipara (5-21). Juvenile L. agilis harbored 12 (0-55) ticks in average and adults SO (7-101; females: 40 [7-101]; males: 67 [34-100]). Ticks were almost exclusively confined to the region of the forelimbs. Body size and movement patterns seem to have an impact on infestation with ticks. The data indicate that lizards are in certain regions common hosts of ticks.
Jansen, S. (2025) -
Janssen, I. & Mey, T. van der (2009) -
Janssen, I. & Zeeuw, M. de (2019) -
Janssen, J. & Shepherd, C.R. (2019) -
Rare or newly discovered species are attractive targets for poaching as they often command a high value in the international market. Endemic species often have a very restricted range, making them extremely vulnerable to stochastic events and human activities, including poaching. Previous studies have shown that several species endemic to the Nansei Islands in Japan are available in the international pet trade. This paper further investigates the presence of live reptiles and amphibians endemic to the Nansei Islands in international pet trade. Seven Facebook groups and five classified websites were searched for these species, in addition to the CITES database and a spot-check at Chatuchak market in Thailand. Nansei Island endemic reptiles and amphibians are more common in the international pet trade than initially thought. During the study period, advertisements for 23 species endemic to the Nansei Islands were found, comprising a total of 360 specimens. In addition, during a spot-check, 8 individuals of 2 subspecies of Japanese sword-tail newt were found at Chatuchak market in Thailand. Only three of these species are protected by the CITES and nine are regionally or nationally protected. Yet, ten species observed in international markets are classified as Endangered by IUCN and two even as Critically Endangered. The large numbers observed for the Endangered and Critically Endangered Goniurosaurus and Takydromus species warrants increased protection and a CITES Appendix III listing is recommended for these species.
Janzen, F.J. & Phillips, P.C. (2006) -
Environmental sex determination has been documented in a variety of organisms for many decades and the adaptive significance of this unusual sexdetermining mechanism has been clarified empirically in most cases. In contrast, temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) in amniote vertebrates, first noted 40 years ago in a lizard, has defied a general satisfactory evolutionary explanation despite considerable research effort. After briefly reviewing relevant theory and prior empirical work, we draw attention to recent comparative analyses that illuminate the evolutionary history of TSD in amniote vertebrates and point to clear avenues for future research on this challenging topic. To that end, we then highlight the latest empirical findings in lizards and turtles, as well as promising experimental results from a model organism, that portend an exciting future of progress in finally elucidating the evolutionary cause(s) and significance of TSD.
Janzen, P. (2021) -
Janzen, P. (2022) -
Janzen, P. (2024) -
Dies ist ein Bericht über eine einwöchige Reise zur Insel Sokotra (Jemen) im Indischen Ozean mit dem Hauptziel Reptilien zu beobachten. Im gesamten Archipel gibt es 32 Reptilienarten, abgesehen von den sporadisch erscheinenden Meeresschildkröten. Von diesen 32 sind 27 Arten endemisch für den Archipel. Auf der Insel Sokotra kommen 27 Reptilienarten vor, von denen 24 endemisch sind bzw. auch auf kleineren Inseln des Archipels vorkommen. Drei Arten wurden eingeschleppt. Von den 27 auf der Insel Sokrota vorkommenden Reptilienarten wurden 13 in der besagten Woche gefunden und dies waren ausschließlich endemische Arten. Außerdem wird auf die spezielle Flora der Insel eingegangen und deren Gefährdung beschrieben. Der Tourismus stellt sich als finanzieller Segen für die Bevölkerung dar und gleichzeitig auch als Fluch aufgrund des Mülls (Plastik). Es werden Empfehlungen für Touristen genannt, um die Situation zumindest etwas zu verbessern.
Jasper, K. (2006) -
Ophisops elegans, a Mediterranean lizard, is found abundantly on Psarà, a small, sparsely populated Greek island approximately 100 kilometers from Athens. In this study, whole specimens and tissue samples were collected from each of three populations, isolated form one another by both distance and geographical barriers. Using a PCR-based approach, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from the NDII genes of approximately thirty individuals was extracted for sequence analysis to determine population heterogeneity within and among populations. A positive correlation between geographic distance and genetic difference was hypothesized.
Jauss, R.-T. & Solf, N. & Kolora, S.R.R. & Schaffer, S. & Wolf, R. & Henle, K. & Fritz, U. & Schlegel, M. (2021) -
In order to elucidate mitochondrial evolution and resolve the phylogeny of the widely distributed European green lizards(Lacerta viridiscomplex), we determined 16 mitochondrial genomes from a representative sampling of the fourpreviously identified major clades corresponding toL. bilineata(western distribution range),L. viridis(most of theeastern distribution range), the unnamed Adriatic (or West Balkan) and the Turkishþsouth-eastern European clades.The mitogenomes were on average 17,162 bp long with a canonical vertebrate gene inventory of 13 protein-codinggenes, 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes and a long non-coding Control Region. We detected severalalmost completely clade-specific insert and tandem-repeat signatures. Phylogenetic analyses using all 13 protein-codinggenes as well as rRNA- and tRNA-coding sequences from a total of 20 mitogenomes inferred a resolved branchingpattern of the four divergent clades. The Turkish clade is strongly supported as sister to all other members of thecomplex. Within the monophylum comprising the remaining clades,L viridisis sister to a clade containingL. bilineataand the Adriatic clade. Unexpectedly, one specimen of western Italy (Calambrone, Pisa)–which is within thedistribution range ofL. bilineata–clustered together with the Adriatic clade with high bootstrap support, calling forfurther research on the biogeography of theL. viridiscomplex. Integrating our results with those of previous studiessuggest that the lineages have reached the level of distinct taxa, but to determine whether they have become fullyindependent lineages on the species level requires further research that tackles nuclear genomic variation of all fourclades and the viability of hybrids and gene flow within putative hybrid zones.
Jdeidi, T.B. & Saed, F.A. & Elhosk, M.A. (2018) -
Farwa island is considered as one of the biggest and most important island in Libya: it is located in the Mediterranean north western part of Libya, about 2 Km from the Abukamash coast, and it’s about 150 Km western of Tripoli. It has a suitable climatic condition and unique diverse habitats of extensive tidal area, sand dunes, trees, mud flat, marshes, drying salt lakes, and beaches. The mean annual temperature is 19ºC and the mean annual rainfall reaches 200 mm: these conditions provide a good habitat for many plant and animal species. The most common plant species at this area are: Eucalyptus gomphocephala, Retama retam, Phoenix dactylifera, Artemisia campestris, Thymelaea hirsuta, Juncus maritimus, Helicrysum stoechas, Tamarix aphylla, Ephedra alata, Citrullus colocynthis, Ziziphus lotus, Lycium europaeum. The most common mammal species seen in Farwa island are Lepus capensis, Vulpes vulpes, Ictonyx libycus, Hystrix cristata. There are many kinds of reptiles like lizards, snakes, and sea turtles. And also there are many kinds of arthropods like beetles, butterflies, moths, ants, bees, wasps, locusts, spiders and scorpions. Water birds form the most important fauna elements in Farwa island. This island is the most important area in Libya for many migratory birds, especially for the birds which are under world wide danger of extinction like Thalasseus bengalensis, Ichthyaetus audouinii, Phalacrocorax aristotelis, Aythya ferina, Numenius tenuirostris. There are many migratory bird species breeding at this island, the most common are Sternula albifrons, Hydroprogne caspia, Sterna hirundo, Tringa tetanus, Larus cachinnas, and Charadrius alexandrinus. Fawa Island provides many kinds of birds with proper conditions for nutrition, reproduction, sheltering and wintering, because of its different habitats and convenient climate condition.
Jedro, G. & Jedro, M.M. (2018) -
Jehle, R. & Franz, A. & Kapfer, M. & Schramm, H. & Tunner, H. (1996) -
A Praying Mantis {Mantis religiosa) was observed to feed on a juvenile Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis).
Jelić, D. (2010) -
The Sand Lizard, Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758, is a species very widely distributed in Croatia. Erythronotus coloration morphs are known to appear very often in different parts of Central and Eastern Europe, but were never recorded in Croatia. In this paper the author describes the first record of this color morph in a male individual collected in the vicinity of Donji Miholjac (Northeastern Croatia) during research in 2006.
Jelić, D. (2014) -
An updated checklist is presented for the amphibian and reptile fauna of Croatia. According to historical and recent literature sources, 20 amphibian and 41 reptile species have been recorded so far. Two reptile species, Blanus strauchi and Typhlops vermicularis, are considered doubtful, although there are individual museum vouchers for the country. Presence of a total of 59 species can be considered valid, with two additional considered doubtful. This paper summarizes data from 700 scientific and popular publications, which is the first attempt to publish a complete Croatian herpetological bibliography. Full bibliography is also given for all occurring species and constitutes a basis for future publications.
V članku je podan posodobljen seznam dvoživk in plazilcev Hrvaške. Po zgodovinskih in recentnih literaturnih virih je bilo doslej v državi zabeleženih 20 vrst dvoživk in 41 vrst plazilcev. Za dve vrsti plazilcev, Blanus strauchi in Typhlops vermicularis, je pojavljanje v državi vprašljivo, čeprav obstajajo njuni muzejski primerki. Tako je bilo skupaj najdenih 59 vrst, medtem ko sta dve vprašljivi. V članku je povzetih 700 strokovnih in poljudnih publikacij, kar je prvi poskus objave celotne bibliografije o herpetološki favni Hrvaške. Podana je tudi celotna bibliografija za vse vrste, ki je hkrati izhodišče za prihodnje objave.
Jelić, D. & Bogdanovic, T. (2011) -
Jelic, D. & Ikovic, V. & Cadenovic, N. & Gvozdenovic-Nikolic, S. & Vujovic, A. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Tomovic, L. & Polovic, L. & Micanovic, A. & Krajnovic, M. & Blazevic, M. (2023) -
Jelić, D. & Karaica, B. & Koren, T. & Sterijovski, B. & Dragičević,P. & Podnar Lešić, M. & Kovač Konrad, P. & Treer, D. & Kuljerić, M. & Peranić, I. (2015) -
Jelić, D. & Kuljerić, M. & Koren, T. & Treer, D. & Šalamon, D. & Lončar, M. & Podnar Lešić, M. & Janev Hutinec, B. & Bogdanović, T. & Mekinić, S. & Jelić, K. (2012) -
Jelić, D. & Kuljerić, M. & Koren, T. & Treer, D. & Šalamon, D. & Lončar, M. & Podnar-Lešić, M. & Janev-Hutinec, B. & Bogdanović, T. & Mekinić, S. (2012) -
Jelic, D. & Kuljeric, M. & Koren, T. & Treer, D. & Salomon, D. & Loncar, M. & Podnar Lesic, M. & Hutinec, B.J. & Bogdanovic, T. & Mekinic, S. & Jelic, K. (2012) -
Jelic, D. & Mekinic, S. (2018) -
Jeong, J.-C. & Song J.-Y. (2010) -
In order to analyze food item of Eremias argus collected in Taeanhaean national park, we analyzed six specimens, 4 females and 2 males, and these specimens maesured the morphological characteristics such as Snout-vent length (SVL), Head width (HW) to 0.01 mm using digital caliper. Additionally we analyzed statistical analysis by SPSS 11.0 program. As a results, Food item of E. argus appeared 8 orders, 13 families in stomach content, then food item composed Lepidoptera (30.6%), Araneae (20.4%), Dermaptera (18.4%), Amphipoda (10.2%), Coleoptera (8.2%), Homoptera (6.1%), Orthoptera (4.1%) and Neuroptera (2.0%).
정종철, 송재영 (2010) -
태안해안국립공원에 서식하는 표범장지뱀의 먹이 구성을 알아보기 위해 암컷 4개체와 수컷 2개체 등 총 6개 체를 대상으로 먹이원과 체장, 두장 등 형태형질을 측정하였다. 또한, SPSS 11.0을 이용하여 통계분석을 수행하였 다. 그 결과 위에서 총 8목 13과의 종이 확인되었으며, 목별로는 나비목 (30.6%), 거미목(20.4%), 집게벌레목(18.4%), 단각목(10.2%), 딱정벌레목(8.2%), 매미목(6.1%), 메뚜기목(4.1%) , 풀잠자리목(2.0%) 순으로 나타났다.
Jeong, T.J. & Jun, J. & Han, S. & Kim, H.T. & Oh, K. & Kwak, M. (2013) -
Recently, amphibians and reptiles have drawn attention because of declines in species and populations caused mainly by habitat loss, overexploitation and climate change. This study constructed a DNA barcode database for the Korean herpetofauna, including all the recorded amphibians and 68% of the recorded reptiles, to provide a useful, standardized tool for species identification in monitoring and management. A total of 103 individuals from 18 amphibian and 17 reptile species were used to generate barcode sequences using partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene and to compare it with other suggested barcode loci. Comparing 16S rRNA, cytochrome b (Cytb) and COI for amphibians and 12S rRNA, Cytb and COI for reptiles, our results revealed that COI is better than the other markers in terms of a high level of sequence variation without length variation and moderate amplification success. Although the COI marker had no clear barcoding gap because of the high level of intraspecific variation, all of the analysed individuals from the same species clustered together in a neighbour-joining tree. High intraspecific variation suggests the possibility of cryptic species. Finally, using this database, confiscated snakes were identified as Elaphe schrenckii, designated as endangered in Korea and a food contaminant was identified as the lizard Takydromus amurensis.
Jeppersen, J. (1903) -
Jerdon, T.C. (1870) -
Jeriomtschenko V.K. & Panfilov A.M. & Tzarinenko E.I. (1992) -
Jeschull, C. (2007) -
Jeschull, C. (2011) -
It is reported about two aberrant colored lizards inside a clutch of Lacerta schreiberi. These two hatchlings had a more silver to grayish coloration and as adults they do not show the intensive green coloration of the typicsal blue heads that males of this species normally display. One of these aberrant males was backcrossed with its mother and a high number of silver-gray lizards hatched beside normally colored hatchlings. This suggests that this genetic color mutation is recessively inherited.
Jeschull, C. (2012) -
Jessat, M. (1998) -
Während der Expeditionen vom Naturkundlichen Museum Mauritianum Altenburg und des Förderkreises Mauritianum Altenburg e. V., die hauptsächlich in die Auen von Großer Kokel und Mieresch/Mures (Siebenbürgen) führten, sind vom Verf. auch die herpetologischen Beobachtungen notiert und zusammengestellt worden. Im einzelnen werden detaillierte Notizen (Datum, Lokalität, z. T. Höhenstufe und gefundene Anzahl der Arten) zu folgenden Arten gegeben: Salamandra salamandra, Triturus vulgaris, T. montandoni, Bombina bombina, B. variegata, Pelobates fuscus, Bufo bufo, B. viridis, Hyla arborea, Rana dalmatina, R. temporaria, R. ridibunda; Emys orbicularis, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta agilis, L. viridis, L. vivipara, Podarcis muralis, Coronella austriaca, Elaphe longissima, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Coluber jugularis caspius.
Jesus, J. (2008) -
Jesus, J. (2012) -
Using the technique of capture, mark and recapture, here is reported a case of high longevity in the Madeiran lizard, Teira dugesii. It is one of the highest reported values for lacertid lizards (16 years or more) in a wild population.
Jesus, J. & Brehm, A. & Harris, D.J. (2005) -
Jesus, J. & Brehm, A. & Vicente, L. (1998) -
Jesus, J. & Sampaio, L. (2001) -
Jesus, J. & Sampaio, L. & Crespo, E. (2006) -
Jesus, J. & Sampaio, L.M. & Silva, L.C. (2005) -
Jesus, J. & Teixeira, S. & Teixeira, D. & Freitas, T. & Russo, D. (2009) -
Jesus, J.M. Abreu de (2005) -
Partial sequences of mitochondrial DNA genes (12S rRNA, 16S rRNA and Cytochrome b) and nuclear DNA (c-mos and enolase), as well as enzymatic markers were used to infer colonization patterns and genetic relationships of reptiles from families lacertidae, scincidae and gekkonidae of Madeira, Cape Verde Archipelagos and Gulf of Guinea islands. These markers also allowed us to uncover species introductions in these islands. The data allows us to detect a intra-specific geographical structure on Mabuya maculilabris from São Tomé and a inter-specific geographical structure of the genus Mabuya in Cape Verde Archipelago. It is also possible to detect a well defined intra-specific geographical structure in Lacerta dugesii from the Archipelago of Madeira that presents fixed haplotypes for each of the four groups of islands. Lacerta dugesii has probably been the result of one single colonization event in the Archipelago of Madeira. Our results reject the hypothesis of the anthropological introduction of the species in the Selvagens Islands. Mabuya spp. from Cape Verde islands were also the result of one colonization event followed by a radiation through the islands. Our results from Cape Verde, and data from reptiles endemic to the Canary Islands, suggest that the number of colonization events of skinks is lower than that observed in geckos. Our results from the Gulf of Guinea seems to be an exception to this rule. Mabuya spp. is the result of four different colonization events, one for Mabuya ozorii of Annobon, one for Mabuya affinis of Príncipe and two for the two forms of Mabuya maculilabris (one from Príncipe and one from São Tomé). Probably the two forms of São Tome and Príncipe are different species or belong to a species complex. The geckos from the Gulf of Guinea islands are the result of fewer events of colonization, probably two for Hemidactylus spp. Considering the genus Mabuya we consider five groups of species, one more than the previously published data, that is the North Africa + Turkey group which implies the need to divide the forms of Africa. Using Lacerta dugesii as a model we didn’t find congruence between enzymatic, morphological and molecular data. The molecular markers allow us to detect introduced species as Hemidactylus mabouia in Madeira, Cape Verde and islands of Gulf of guinea islands, as well as Ramphotyphlobs braminus in Annobon. It was also possible to review the taxonomic status of some species. We consider the existence of three subspecies of Lacerta dugesii. In Mabuya from Cape Verde Islands, the previous established relationships are also validated. In Tarentola more genetic distinct groups than those previously established were obtained, and probably we discovered a new subspecies of Tarentola gigas. We confirmed the presence of a Mabuya in Annobon (probably M. ozorii, omitted species on EMBL Reptile database). Two distinct forms of Mabuya maculilabris were found, one in Príncipe and one in São Tomé. The molecular data seems to reject the anthropological introduction of M. maculilabris. The c-mos can be a good phylogenetic marker at the infraspecific level. The same happened for the control region which is. At least in Lacerta dugesii, less variable than cytochrome b.
Ji, X. (1992) -
1. During incubation, rigid-shelled eggs of Gekko japonicus declined in both wet mass and dry mass, and pliable-shelled eggs of Takydromus septentrionalis increased in wet mass but decreased in dry mass. 2. Rapid increase of percentage of lipids in developing eggs occurred during the early period of vitellogenesis, percentage of lipids in medium and large sized follicles of both species remained approximately constant. Caloric value was correlated with lipid content and for ash, uncorrected caloric value was correlated with ash content. 3. Total ash present in developing eggs increased as the eggs developed. Embryos of both species did not rely exclusively on ash supplied in their yolks, and withdrew ash from their eggshelis.
Ji, X. & Braña, F. (1999) -
Ji, X. & Braña, F. (2000) -
Ji, X. & Diong, C.-H. (2006) -
An experimental reduction of offspring number has been reported to result in enlargement of offspring size in lizards. We applied the ‘‘follicle excision’’ tech- nique to a lacertid lizard (Takydromus septentrionalis) to examine whether this effect is generalisable to lizards. Of the 82 females that produced 3 successive clutches in the laboratory, 23 females underwent follicle excision after they oviposited the first clutch. Follicle excision reduced clutch size, but did not alter egg size. This result indi- cates that egg size is not altered during vitellogenesis in T. septentrionalis. Females undergoing follicle excision produced a third clutch (a second post-surgical clutch) as normally as did control females. Females switched from producing more but smaller eggs early in the breeding season to fewer but larger eggs later in the season. Our results indicate that female T. septentrionalis maximize reproductive success by diverting an optimal, rather than a higher, fraction of the available energy to individual offspring. This optimized allocation of the available energy to offspring production explains why follicle excision does not result in enlargement of egg size in this species. Our study provides evidence that an experimental reduction of offspring number does not always result in enlargement of offspring size in lizards.
Ji, X. & Du, W-G. & Lin, Z-H. & Luo, L-G. (2007) -
We measured the reproductive output of Takydromus septentrionalis collected over 5 years between 1997 and 2005to test the hypothesis that reproductive females should allocate an optimal fraction of accessible resources in a par-ticular clutch and to individual eggs. Females laid 1–7 clutches per breeding season, with large females producingmore, as well as larger clutches, than did small females. Clutch size, clutch mass, annual fecundity, and annualreproductive output were all positively related to female size (snout–vent length). Females switched from producingmore, but smaller eggs in the first clutch to fewer, but larger eggs in the subsequent clutches. The mass-specific clutchmass was greater in the first clutch than in the subsequent clutches, but it did not differ among the subsequentclutches. Post-oviposition body mass, clutch size, and egg size showed differing degrees of annual variation, butclutch mass of either the first or the second clutch remained unchanged across the sampling years. The regressionline describing the size–number trade-off was higher in the subsequent clutch than in the first clutch, but neither theline for first clutch, nor the line for the second clutch varied among years. Reproduction retarded growth more mark-edly in small females than in large ones. Our data show that: (1) trade-offs between size and number of eggs andbetween reproduction and growth (and thus, future reproduction) are evident in T. septentrionalis; (2) females allo-cate an optimal fraction of accessible resources in current reproduction and to individual eggs; and (3) seasonal shiftsin reproductive output and egg size are determined ultimately by natural selection.
Ji, X. & Du, W.G. & Sun, P.Y. (1996) -
1. We studied in field and laboratory experiments several aspects of the thermal biology of adult lacertid lizards (Takydromus septentrionalis). 2. The selected body temperature and the critical thermal maximum averaged 30.0 and 42.3°C, respectively; the critical thermal minimum of males and females averaged 3.9 and 5.9°C, respectively. 3. The lizards in May exhibited lower and more variable active body temperatures than did the lizards in July, because of lower and more variable air and substrate temperatures in May. 4. The sprint speed generally increased with body temperature within the range of 17 to 32°C and decreased at temperatures >32°C. 5. Within the range of 26 to 36°C, body temperature influenced food assimilation primarily by affecting the food passage time, whereas it only slightly affected the daily food consumption, the apparent digestive coefficient and the assimilation efficiency. The food passage time decreased with increasing body temperature.
Ji, X. & Ha, W. & Wang, P. (1989) -
Home range sizes of the lizard Takydromus Septentrionalis were evaluatedduring reproduction period in 1987 and 1988 at Xiushan Island in Zhejiang province. Most of the lizard occupied a certain area of home range. Mean squared recapture radii (r2) were used to estimate home range size. In 1988, adults had greater home range sizes than juveniles, the mean value of r2 of the latter being 11.6±7.3SD. Adult males had greater home range sizes than adult females, the mean values being 49.8±13.9SD and 31.1±22.2SD, respectively. In 1987,adult males also had greater home range than adult females, the mean values of r2 being 66.1±16.7SD and 35. 2±19. 1SD, respectively. Population size in 1987 was greater than that in 1988,there was an inverse relationship between population size and home range size,although there was no significant difference in mean recapture radii both in males and in females.
Ji, X. & Tang, Y.W. & Hong, W.X. (1994) -
Ji, X. & Weiguo, D. & Pingyue, S. (2018) -
Ji, X. & Zhou, W. & He, G. & Gu, H. (1993) -
1. Juvenile Takydromus septentrionalis at 28, 30 and 32°C exhibited no significant differences in food intake but significant differences in weight-specific food intake, with the highest food intake (384.6 cal/day) and the highest weight-specific food intake (195.2 cal/g/day) occurring at 32 and at 30°C, respectively. 2. The assimilation efficiencies at 28, 30 and 32°C averaged 87.7, 88.7 and 83.3%, respectively. 3. No significant differences in growth were observed among lizards at different temperatures.
Ji, X. & Zhou, W. & Zhang, X. & Gu, H. (1998) -
Sexual dimorphism and reproduction in a population of Takydromus septentrionalis on Xiushan Island of Zhoushan Islands group were investigated during the breeding seasons of 1989 - 1992. Most males and females, approximately two years after hatchling, reached sexual maturity at 54 and 57 mm SVL, respectively. Adult male and female T. septentrionalis were similar in SVL but quite different in the head size characteristics, males having larger heads than females of similar SVL except near the size of sexual maturity. Mating success in males was apparently not related to increased SVL. Males can copulate with females in several hours before or after oviposition. The duration of intromission averaged 227 min. Females can lay 1 - 3 clutches with 2 - 6 eggs each per season. Clutch size or clutch mass was significantly correlated with SVL and was not correlated with the clutch size. Relative clutch weight (RCW) averaged 0.149. Oviposition frequency averaged 16.7 days.
Jiang, Z. et al. (2016) -
Jimena, V.G,. (2013) -
El concepto de estrés es algo complicado de definir y, sin embargo, todos nos hemos enfrentado al estrés en algún momento de nuestra vida y conocemos las consecuencias del mismo. En respuesta a un estimulo o situación potencialmente estresante se produce una respuesta en el organismo que conlleva una serie de cambios fisiológicos y conductuales que ayudan a lidiar con el estimulo o situación percibidos, aumentando las probabilidades de supervivencia inmediata. Esta respuesta fisiológica del organismo frente al estrés se traduce en un aumento en los niveles basales de glucocorticoides (cortisol o corticosterona dependiendo de la especie). La variación que puede producirse en los niveles basales de glucocorticoides no sólo está regulada por la percepción de un factor estresante, sino que a su vez sigue patrones estacionales y circadianos, depende de las características propias de cada individuo (sexo, edad, etc), e incluso de factores a nivel psicológico tales como la percepción individual sobre el control que tenga el individuo del estimulo causante de la respuesta al estrés. Además, los efectos del aumento de los niveles basales de glucocorticoides tanto a nivel fisiológico como a nivel de comportamiento dependen a su vez de factores tales como el tiempo durante el que se prolongue su aumento o la magnitud del propio aumento. En principio, el aumento de los niveles basales de glucocorticoides en respuesta al estrés es adaptativo y está orientado a aumentar las probabilidades de supervivencia inmediata. Sin embargo, cuando esta respuesta adaptativa y puntual al estrés se va prolongando a lo largo del tiempo y pasa a convertirse en algo crónico, aparecen los efectos dañinos del estrés que pueden incluso producir la muerte del individuo. Dado que el estrés y la respuesta al mismo tienen efectos tanto a nivel filológico como conductual, pueden afectar a la eficacia biológica tanto directa (nivel fisiológico) como indirectamente (modulando las respuestas de comportamiento). Es por tanto fundamental investigar estos posibles efectos a la hora de tratar de entender como los animales son capaces de sobrevivir y adaptarse al medio que les rodea. Igualmente importante es tratar de entender la respuesta que se produce ante los conflictos potenciales que pueden aparecer entre las acciones encaminadas a cubrir necesidades habituales y acciones encaminadas a lidiar con el factor generador de estrés. Comprender cómo reaccionan los distintos organismos al estrés y hasta donde llega el alcance de sus efectos puedeser fundamental a la hora de desentrañar las interacciones entre las distintas especies y la evolución de estas relaciones. A pesar del gran número de trabajos que estudian los efectos del estrés, de la respuesta al estrés y de los propios glucocorticoides, aun quedan bastantes puntos por cubrir, sobre todo en relación a los efectos sobre decisiones conductuales aparentemente sencillas pero directamente relacionadas con la eficacia biológica individual. Esta tesis pretende ayudar a aclarar algunas de estas incógnitas usando como modelo a la lagartija de turbera (Lacerta vivipara Jacquin, 1787). Para ello se estudiaron, por un lado, las decisiones relacionadas con la selección de hábitat: respuestas sencillas frente a amenazas potenciales concretas en distintas situaciones con diferentes grados de riesgo. Por otro lado, se estudiaron respuestas más complejas frente a una de las decisiones más importantes para la eficacia biológica de los individuos: selección de pareja y comportamiento relacionado con la reproducción. Con todo esto se pretende llegar a entender mejor los patrones que rigen tanto la modulación como la evolución del comportamiento y de las relaciones sociales, y por tanto de las distintas estrategias vitales en esta especie como respuesta al estrés,tratando de integrar los resultados obtenidos en un contexto ecológico.
Jimenez-Cazalla, F. (2012) -
Jiménez-Cazalla, F. (2022) -
Jiménez-Robles, O. & de la Riva, I. (2019) -
Current climate change-forced local extinctions of ectotherms in their warmer distribution limits have been linked to a reduction in their activity budgets by excess of heat. However, warmer distribution limits of species may be determined by biotic interactions as well. We aimed to understand the role of thermal activity budgets as drivers of the warmer distribution limit of cold-adapted mountain ectotherms, and the colder distribution limit of partially sympatric thermophilous species. In the southern slopes of the Sierra de Guadarrama, Madrid, Spain, (1800–2200 m asl), we collected data from surveys of active individuals, thermal preferences, thermoregulation effectiveness, and activity budgets across 12 different sites exposed to different microclimates and habitats. We assessed how abundances of each species were predicted by activity budgets, restriction time, temperature deviation, habitat covers and date. We found that Iberolacerta cyreni abundances are not predicted by heat-restricted activity time as they were absent or rare in the areas where its activity budgets are broader. Conversely, the abundances of the other lizards were positively predicted by the potential activity time. Habitat preferences and date explained also part of the occurrences of the four species. Our results suggest that realized niches of lizards in the Sierra de Guadarrama are a consequence of niche partitioning by temperature-mediated competitive exclusion. The more thermophilous species were physiologically limited by the reduced chances of being active due to the cold, while the cold-adapted species was abundant in those areas where its potential activity is limited by cold-temperatures, but the thermophilous species cannot inhabit. We provide new insights on the ecological processes affecting the distribution of ectotherm mountain organisms, the assemblage of their communities and how climate change could affect them.
Jiménez, J.J. & Romero, D. & Segura, J. & Moreno-Benitez, J.M. & Ripoll, J.J. & Garcia-Cardanete, L. (2016) -
Jin, S.-D. & Han, S.-W. & Shin, H.C. & Paik, W.-K. & Lee, H. & Kim, I.-K. (2013) -
Eremias argus, which specifically inhabits riverside or coastal sand dune, is an endangered species designated by the Ministry of Environment of Korea because it has been drastically decreasing due to the destruction of habitat and the human activities. Therefore, it is required to prepare a countermeasure for the strategic and systematic solutions for the conservation of the E. argus. This study analyzed mtDNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene of E. argus inhabiting Yoobu-do island and Sohwang sand dune. This study aims to provide fundamental genetic information through phylogeographical analysis between two regions. Of 11 individuals of E. argus used in the analysis, the total 652~656 bp of mtDNA COI genes for 3 individuals of Takydromus wolteri as `out group` were analyzed. Intraspecific genetic distance for E. argus was shown to be the same result of 0.000. As for T. wolteri, it was 0.005, showing very similar result. T. wolteri inhabiting Gapcheon stream in Daejeon metropolitan city was found to be the highest intraspecific genetic distance (0.008). The NJ tree of E. argus and T. wolteri indicated there was almost no genetic difference between habitat for E. argus. For T. wolteri, however, there was slight difference between the individuals inhabiting Yoobu-do island and those inhabiting Gapcheon stream in Daejeon metropolitan city. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare conservation strategies to increase genetic diversity of E. argus in Yoobudo island in the future because it is highly presumed that the population of E. argus in Yoobu-do island have been flown from nearby coastal sand dune.
Joger, U. (1982) -
Joger, U. (1987) -
The Afrotropical element in the Arabian herpetofauna is concentrated in the southwestern mountainous region, whereas everywhere else in the peninsula the reptile fauna is Saharo-Sindian. There is a high degree of correspondence between the reptile faunas of the Yemens and Somalia. A remarkable faunistic resemblance also exists between the relict faunas of SW Arabia and Morocco. Three evolutionary levels can be distinguished among Ethiopian taxa in Arabia and are interpreted as evidence of different times of faunal contact: 1. Old relicts (genus level) of a Palaeogene (pre continental drift) Arabian/North African fauna (Pristurus, Trogonophidae); 2. Endemic species closely related to East African species (most probably Miocene); 3. Species distributed on both sides of the Bäb al-Mandab (Pleistocene). Contrary to the Saharo-Sindian faunal elements, there is good evidence that groups 2 and 3 used a landbridge across the Bäb al-Mandab for faunal exchange: the Miocene closure of the southern outlet of the Red Sea and a Pleistocene land connection due to eustatic sea level change.
Joger, U. (1996) -
Joger, U. (1999) -
Joger, U. & Amann, T. & Veith, M. (2002) -
Joger, U. & Bischoff, W. (1989) -
Joger, U. & Dujsebayeva, T. & Belyalov, O. V. & Chikin, Y. & Guicking, D. & Grachev, Y. A. (2012) -
Joger, U. & Fritz, U. & Guicking, D. & Kalyabina-Hauf, S. & Nagy, Z.T. & Wink, M. (2007) -
A phylogeographic analysis of eight species complexes of European reptiles was performed using different molecular methods. While mitochondrial genes (mainly cytochrome b sequences) enabled conclusions about phylogeography and differentiation, additional application of bisexually inherited markers provided information about speciation stages. As species with similar distribution patterns in southern and Central Europe were selected, matching phylogeographic patterns are useful for drawing general conclusions: (1) The species complexes are in different stages of speciation. In some cases, cryptic species were detected. (2) Highest genetic diversity occurs in southern Europe, the Near East and the Caucasus, regions corresponding with glacial refuges in the Iberian, Apennine and Balkan Peninsulas as well as in Turkey and the Caucasus. Often, several microrefugia must have existed in close neighbourhood. Additional microrefugia were located in southern France and in the Carpathian Basin. (3) North Africa and the Middle East did not serve as glacial refuges for Central or northern European lineages and are typically inhabited by independent clades. (4) Evidence for multiple range retractions and expansions, which were postulated for the times of Pleistocene climatic oscillations, could be found in the Balkans, but in Central Europe their traces have been wiped out by the last glacial. Only the Holocene invasion has left imprints in the genomes from this area. (5) Central and northern Europe were recolonized from Balkan and Pontic refugia in the Holocene. (6) Groups from the Iberian and Apennine Peninsulas rarely conquered other regions. This limitation can be attributed to the barrier function of the Pyrenees and the Alps.
Joger, U. & Geniez, P. & Miras, J.A.M. & El Hassan, M. & Tahar, S. & Nouira, S. (2006) -
Joger, U. & Guicking, D. & Kalyabina-Hauf, S. & Lenk, P. & Nagy, Z.T. & Wink, M. (2006) -
Sieben Artenkomplexe europäischer Reptilien wurden einer phylogeographischen Analyse unterzogen, wobei verschiedene molekulargenetische Methoden eingesetzt wurden. Während mitochondriale Gene (hier vor allem Cytochrom b Sequenzen) weit reichende Aussagen über die phylogeographische Differenzierungsgeschichte zuließen, war der zusätzliche Einsatz bisexuell vererbter Marker hilfreich bei der Entscheidung, welches Stadium die Speziationsprozesse bereits erreicht haben. Da Arten mit ähnlichen Verbreitungsmustern in Süd- und Mitteleuropa gewählt wurden, konnten übereinstimmende phylogeographische Verzweigungsmuster genutzt werden, einige allgemeine Schlussfolgerungen zu ziehen: ● Die höchste genetische Diversität der untersuchten Artenkomplexe wird bei ihren Vertretern in Südeuropa, Kleinasien und im Kaukasus erreicht. Die Differenzierung erfolgte offenbar in den pleistozänen Refugialräumen. ● Die Speziationsprozesse sind unterschiedlich weit fortgeschritten. In einigen Fällen konnten bereits kryptische Arten erkannt werden. ● Multiple Arealretraktionen und -expansionen während der pleistozänen Klimaschwankungen sind zu postulieren und auf dem Balkan auch nachweisbar, aber in Mitteleuropa sind ihre Spuren verwischt; erst die holozäne Invasion ist dort genetisch präsent. ● Der Balkan und die Pontische Region waren Ursprungsregionen aktiver Einwanderer nach Mittel- und Nordeuropa. ● Gruppen von der Iberischen und der Apenninhalbinsel eroberten nur selten andere Regionen. Die Barrierefunktion der Pyrenäen und der Alpen dürfte hierfür verantwortlich sein.
Joger, U. & Mayer, W. (2002) -
Joger, U. & Slimani, T. & El Mouden, H. & Geniez, P. (2006) -
Johann, H. (1981) -
Johanson, W. & Tse-Leon, J. (2023) -
Johki, Y. & Hidaka, T. (1982) -
The prey recognition system in the predatory behavior of T. tachydromoides was analyzed experimentally using unpalatabe Pryeria moths and edible mealworms. None of the Pryeria moths were either killed or eaten, while all the mealworms attacked were eaten. The learning of visual avoidance by T. tachydromoides, in which the lizard associates the unpalatability of Pryeria moth with its appearance and avoids it, seemed to exist, but its process appeared to be very slow. In the course of predatory behavior, the lizard first recognized the prey visually, but then checked it strictly through chemical cues. This suggested that not only visual but also other sensory cues such as olfactory and gustatory stimuli derived from the prey were necessary for the efficient avoidance learning in this lizard.
John, A. (2010) -
John, S. & Joshi, B.D. & Soni, V.C. (1993) -
Jolly, K. (1957) -
Joly, J. & Saint Girons, H. (1981) -
Joly, J. & Saint-Girons, H. (1975) -
Jong, J. de (2014) -
Jong, T. de (1991) -
Jong, T. de (2022) -
The rigorous rejuvenation of a patch of heathland in the Dutch province Utrecht led to the translocation 146 sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) in 2009. The necessity of this translocation follows the regulations set by the Dutch Flora and Fauna legislation. A total of 146 lizards were caught in the source location, photographed, and relocated to a suitable reception site where other sand lizards were already present. After relocation, two locations were monitored, both during 14 visits; (1) one site between the source location and the relocation site, and (2) one site within the relocation site. Within the first monitoring site, 33 unique lizards were seen and photographed. None of these individuals were part of the relocated population. During the monitoring within the relocation site, 63 unique individuals were seen and photographed, of which six were previously relocated from the source site. From the 146 relocated sand lizards, only a 10% was found in the relocation area. The ultimate fate of the other 90% translocated individuals is unknown. Other sand lizards were already present in the relocation area in high densities, competition for resources may have led to intraspecific competition which may have led to fighting with stress, death and possible migration of translocated individuals as a result. It’s questionable whether the relocation of sand lizards in this manner is indeed a viable solution. Suggestions and recommendations improving these prescribed translocations are described in this paper.
Jooris, R. (2007) -
Jooris, R. (2013) -
First records of melanistic individuals of the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) in Belgium In Belgium, the geographical range of the Common Wall Lizard is restricted to the thermophilic valleys of the river Meuse, most of the populations being situated in the Condroz, the Herve region and the Fagne-Famenne- Calestienne. Nowadays, isolated populations also occur in Flanders, outside the natural range of the species. These populations are mostly concentrated along railway tracks. In one population, melanistic individuals have been observed. This is the first record of melanistic wall lizards in Belgium.
Jooris, R. & Desloovere, M. & Lehouck, M. & F. Wyns (2012) -
Jooris, R. & Engelen, P. & Speybroeck, J. & Lewylle, I. & Loette, G. & Bauwens, D. & Maes, D. (2012) -
Jooris, R. & Engelen, P. & Speybroeck, J. & Lewylle, I. & Louette, G. & Bauwens, D. & Maes, D. (2013) -
A new 2012 Red List for the amphibians and reptiles of Flanders (Belgium) has been published. Changes in the species list and the status of the species necessitated an update of the previous list, dating back to 1996. Criteria set by the IUCN were applied to create the list, as species were classified as ‘vulnerable’, ‘endangered’, ‘critically endangered’ and ‘extinct’. The remainder of the species is treated as ‘least concern’ or with ‘insufficient data’. Within each category, all species are discussed with emphasis on their distribution in Flanders, as well as in neighbouring regions and countries to allow tentative assessment of a potential rescue effect (as part of the IUCN criteria). The Yellow-bellied Toad (Bombina variegata) is ‘extinct’ from Flanders. ‘Critically endangered’ species are Common Spadefoot Toad (Pelobates fuscus) and Common Tree Frog (Hyla arborea). Common Midwife Toad (Alytes obstetricans), Smooth Snake (Coronella austriaca), Grass Snake (Natrix natrix) and Adder (Vipera berus) are considered ‘endangered’. Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra), Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus), Natterjack Toad (Bufo calamita) and Moor Frog (Rana arvalis) are ‘vulnerable’. Pool Frog (Pelophylax lessonae) is listed as ‘near threatened’. For Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis), the data is considered insufficient. The remainder of the Flemish herpetofauna is treated as of ‘least concern’, being Alpine Newt (Ichthyosaura alpestris), Palmate Newt (Lissotriton helveticus), Smooth Newt (Lissotriton vulgaris), Common Toad (Bufo bufo), Grass Frog (Rana temporaria), Edible Frog (Pelophylax kl. esculentus), Marsh Frog (Pelophylax ridibundus), Slow Worm (Anguis fragilis) and Common or Viviparous Lizard (Zootoca vivipara).
Jooris, R. & Lehouck, M. (2008) -
The Wall Lizard Podarcis muralis has a medium-southern Europeananatolic distribution. In the northwestern limit of its geographical range the natural populations are restricted to the thermophilic valleys of the Maas, the Moselle and the Rhine. The northern limit of the area coincides greatly with the 18°C isotherm of July. In Belgium 90% procent of the locations are situated in the phytogeographic region of the Maas (Condroz, Herve region and the Fagne- Famenne-Calestienne). Nowadays isolated populations occur outside this natural range: three occurs in Wallonia (province of Hainaut) and eight in Flanders (provinces of West-Vlaanderen, Oost- Vlaanderen, Antwerpen and Vlaams-Brabant). Populations in Flanders are discussed.All of these isolated populations are reproducing and are mostly concentrated along railway stations.The number of animals in some populations is relativly high and population spreading along the railway tracks reaches a maximum distance of 1,5 km. The longevity of three non-railway populations are uncertain, due to limited range expansion but population spread has been more successful along the continuous hospitable terrain provided by the railway’s ballast and xerothermic habitat with sparse vegetation on both sides of the rails.The origin of the populations is different.The populations in Heverlee (Leuven) and Ternat are voluntary introduced but all others are probable imported by accident.The occurrence in the neighbourhood of railway station with a shunting yard suppose a transport by train. The successful development of all populations is probably due to global warming and the higher isotherms of July during the last two decades.
Jooris, R. & Lehouck, M. & Desloovere, M. & Wyns, F. (2012) -
Jooris, R. & Lehouck, M. & Desloovere, M. & Wyns, F. (2016) -
Jorcin, P. & Barthe, L. & Doré, F. & Geniez, P. & Grillet, P. & Kabouche, B. & Movia, A. & Naimi, B. & Pottier, G. & Thirion, J.-M. & Cheylan, M. (2019) -
The Ocellated Lizard, Timon lepidus (Daudin 1802) occupies the Mediterranean regions of southwestern Europe (Portugal, Spain, France, and the extreme northwest of Italy). Over the last decades, a marked decline in its population has been observed, particularly on the northern edge of its distribution. As a result, it is currently considered a threatened species, especially in France and Italy. In France, a national action plan for its conservation has been put in place. In this study, ecological niche modelling (ENM) was carried out over the entire area of France in order to evaluate the species’ potential distribution, more accurately defne its ecological niche, guide future surveys, and inform land use planning so this species can be better taken into consideration. The modelling used data representing 2,757 observation points spread over the known range of the species, and 34 ecogeographical variables (climate, topography, and vegetation cover) were evaluated. After removing correlated variables, models were ftted with several combinations of variables using eight species distribution model (SDM) algorithms, and then their performance was assessed using three model accuracy metrics. Iterative trials changing the input variables were used to obtain the best model. The optimized model included nine determining variables. The results indicate the presence of this species is linked primarily to three climate variables: precipitation in the driest month, precipitation seasonality, and mean temperature in the driest quarter. The model was checked by a sample dataset that was not used to ft the model, and this validation dataset represented 25% of the overall feld observations. Of the known occurrence locations kept aside to check the results, 94% fell within the presence area predicted by the modelled map with a presence probability greater than 0.7, and 90% fell within the area with a presence probability ranging from 0.8 to 1, which represents a very high predictive value. These results indicate that the models closely matched the observed distribution, suggesting a low impact of either geographical factors (barriers to dispersal), historical factors (dispersal process), or ecological factors (e.g., competition, trophic resources). The overlap between the predicted distribution and protected areas for this species reveals that less than 1% of the potential distribution area is protected by strong regulatory measures (e.g., national parks and natural reserves). The knowledge obtained in this study allows us to recommend some guidelines that would favor the conservation of this species.
Jorcin, P. & Cheylan, M. (2017) -
Jordaan, P.R. & Goot, A.C. van der & Muller, H.P. & Steyl, J.C.A. (2019) -
Few reports on fire-induced reptile mortality in African savanna have been published. To quantify fire-induced reptile mortality surveys were conducted during a scheduled austral spring management fire in savanna habitat at Lapalala Wilderness, a private game reserve in Limpopo Province, South Africa to determine the density of fatalities and identify possible fire associated mechanisms of mortality. Several transects were conducted at sites within a single block burn. Surveys produced 15 fatalities from eight squamate species, most of which showed varying degrees of denuded respiratory cilia, suggestive of heated air inhalation, potentially proving fatal for some collected specimens.
Jorga, W. (1984) -
Jorge, F. & Carretero, M.A. & Roca, V. & Poulin, R. & Perera, A. (2013) -
Parasitological analyses are often based on invasive methodologies, involving host sacrifice, raising ethical and conservation issues. However, alternative non-invasive approaches may not be always applicable due to the location of the parasite in the host tissue or the quality and reliability of the non-invasive sample per se. In this study, we compare the differences in detectability of intestinal parasites in reptiles using the classical invasive approach (intestine dissection), versus a non-invasive procedure (faecal examination), collected from the same individual host. Our results showed significantly lower detectability of helminths in faeces versus the intestine. Moreover, the number of parasites found in faeces was not explained either by the intensities found in the respective intestine or by the host identity. Several factors may explain the lack of association between the two types of samples, but more importantly, our results highlight the randomness of the presence of parasites in faeces. Even if it is not recommended that comparative studies of either parasite abundance or parasite communities be conducted on the basis of faecal samples, there are other types of studies (i.e. genetic) that can be performed with this source of information, thus avoiding the sacrifice of the host. Due to their wide spectrum of life stages and localization in the host tissue, parasites are challenging candidates for non-invasive sampling and consequently, parasitological methodologies should be carefully selected according to the objective of the study.
Jorge, F. & Perera, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2013) -
The implementation of molecular tools in parasitology has led to the discovery of numerous cryptic species. However, detailed morphological studies are needed to evaluate the cryptic nature of such species, as well as to provide an appropriate and formal description. Recent phylogenetic analyses using mitochondrial and nuclear genes have revealed that the nematode Spauligodon atlanticus, parasite of lizards of the genus Gallotia endemic to the Canary Islands, consists of two highly divergent and unrelated lineages, one in the eastern islands and the other in the western ones. This study provides a detailed morphological analysis of the two S. atlanticus lineages characterized genetically, based on body measurements and scanning electron microscopy. This integrative approach revealed phenotypic differences between them, despite their overall morphological resemblance. As a result, the new species Spauligodon occidentalis sp. nov., from the formerly western lineage, is described. The morphological similarity between the two Spauligodon species is better explained on the basis of evolutionary convergence, since both species parasitize Gallotia lizards. In addition to delimiting the new nematode species, this study highlights the importance of combining genetic and morphological data with taxonomy to uncover the nature of cryptic species and decrease taxonomic uncertainty.
Jorge, F. & Perera, A. & Poulin, R. & Roca, V. & Carretero, M.A. (2018) -
Episodes of expansion and isolation in geographic range over space and time, during which parasites have the opportunity to expand their host range, are linked to the development of host–parasite mosaic assemblages and parasite diversification. In this study, we investigated whether island colonization events lead to host range oscillations in a taxon of host-specific parasitic nematodes of the genus Spauligodon in the Canary Islands. We further investigated whether range oscillations also resulted in shifts in host breadth (i.e., specialization), as expected for parasites on islands. Parasite phylogeny and divergence time estimates were inferred from molecular data with Bayesian methods. Host divergence times were set as calibration priors after a priori evaluation with a global-fit method of which individual host–parasite associations likely represent cospeciation links. Parasite colonization history was reconstructed, followed by an estimation of oscillation events and specificity level. The results indicate the presence of four Spauligodon clades in the Canary Islands, which originated from at least three different colonization events. We found evidence of host range oscillations to truly novel hosts, which in one case led to higher diversification. Contemporary host–parasite associations show strong host specificity, suggesting that changes in host breadth were limited to the shift period. Lineages with more frequent and wider taxonomic host range oscillations prior to the initial colonization event showed wider range oscillations during colonization and diversification within the archipelago. Our results suggest that a lineage’s evolutionary past may be the best indicator of a parasite’s potential for future range expansions.
Jorge, F. & Roca, V. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. (2010) -
Parasites are still playing a small role in the analysis of evolutionary events of their hosts, even so there are already some examples where parasites have been successfully used as an additional marker, highlighting undetected phylogenetic patters within their hosts. However, parasite taxonomy still mostly relies on morphoanatomic characteristics and differences in life cycles to distinguish between different species, which can hide more complex phylogenetic relationships between similar parasites. Also, genetic analyses frequently reveal cryptic species. In this study, we analysed the phylogenetic variation within the nematode Spauligodon atlanticus, parasite of the Canarian lizards genus Gallotia inferring about its phylogeographic pattern. We also attempt to determine its relationships to other Spauligodon species parasitising others lacertids. We use the mitochondrial Cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 to estimate the genetic variation within these nematodes. Even though S. atlanticus presents a direct life cycle, with its dispersion completely dependent on the host, and has been described as specific to Gallotia, results suggest that its phylogeography does not completely parallel that of the lacertid host. Namely, the shallow phylogeny of S. atlanticus mostly track the process of island colonization by the host. However, the apparent similarity of the deep phylogeny separating Eastern from Western lineages disappeared when others Spauligodon species are included in the analysis; the phylogeographic pattern becomes more complicated. Parasites, hence, may provide an additional element for inferring the phylogenetic and phylogeographic patterns of the hosts but can no longer be seen as mere spectators of their hosts’ life.
Jorge, F. & Roca, V. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Parasite taxonomy traditionally relies on morphometric and life-cycle characteristics which may not reflect complex phylogenetic relationships. However, genetic analyses can reveal cryptic species within morphologically described parasite taxa. We analysed the phylogenetic variation within the nematode Spauligodon atlanticus Astasio-Arbiza, Zapatero- Ramos, Ojeda-Rosas & Solera-Puertas, 1987, a parasite of the Canarian lizard genus Gallotia Boulenger, inferring the origin of their current association.Wealso attempted to determine its relationship with other Spauligodon spp. Three different markers, mitochondrial COI plus nuclear 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA, were used to estimate the evolutionary relationships between these nematodes. S. atlanticus was found to be paraphyletic, suggesting that Gallotia spp. were colonised by two independent lineages of Spauligodon. Additional analyses of other Spauligodon spp. Are required for a more complete interpretation of the evolution of this genus from the Canarian archipelago and its closest taxa. Our results emphasise the importance of extensive sampling and phylogenetic studies at the intrageneric level, and highlight the limitations of a morphologically based taxonomy in these parasites.
Josephe-Lafosse, P. (1891) -
Joshi, M. & Das, S.K. (2015) -
Josserand, R. (2016) -
Increasing anthropogenic and global changes are causing many disturbances in the environment leading to degradation and even destruction of habitat. The allostatic model proposed by McEwen and Wingfield in 2003 provides a better understanding of the relationships between physiology and demographic responses within the framework of conservation physiology. Experimental approaches in controlled and semi-natural environments have tested the effect of chronic stress on changes in life histories and physiological parameters in the viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara). We discuss the characterization of allostatic charge and the short-term and long-term effects of chronic stress and the use of allostatic charge as an indicator of habitat degradation. This work can be used to better understand and predict the dynamics of natural populations subjected to global changes.
Josserand, R. & Dupoué, A. & Agostini, S. & Haussy, C. & Galliard, J.-F. le & Meylan, S. (2017) -
The allostatic load model describes how individuals maintain homeostasis in challenging environment and posits that costs induced by a chronic perturbation (i.e., allostatic load) are correlated to the secretion of glucocorticoids, such as corticosterone. Habitat perturbations from anthropogenic activities are multiple and functional responses to those are still unclear. Here, we manipulated the habitat quality in 24 semi-natural populations of the common lizard during 1 year. We tested the predictions of the allostatic load model that habitat degradation should increase baseline corticosterone levels, and should induce concomitant physiological changes, such as lipid mobilization and lower immunocompetence, and demographic changes, such as lower body growth, survival and/ or reproductive performances. Our results highlight stagedependent effects of habitat degradation on physiological traits during the breeding season: adult lizards had higher baseline corticosterone levels and yearling lizards had a lower inflammatory response than adults, whereas juveniles had higher circulating lipid levels than yearlings and adults without concomitant change in corticosterone levels. In addition, habitat degradation reduced the performances of adults but not of juveniles: in low habitat quality populations, adult males had a lower survival and females had a smaller fecundity. These results are in accordance with the allostatic load model given that allostatic load was detected only during the season and in life stages of maximal energy expenditure. This underlines the importance to account for individual energy requirements to better understand demographic responses to habitat perturbation.
Josserand, R. & Haussy, C. & Agostini, S. & Decenciere, B. & Galliard, J.-F. le & Meylan, S. (2020) -
Chronic stressors have profound impacts on phenotypes and life history strategies on the short term, but delayed effects of stress experienced late in life remain poorly investigated in wild populations. Here, we used a combined laboratory and field experiment to test if chronic stress late in life has immediate and delayed effects on physiological and demographic traits in the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara. We increased plasma corticosterone levels in adults and yearlings during three weeks of the post-reproductive season. We quantified immediate responses in the laboratory, delayed intra-generational effects in field enclosures one month and one year later during the next reproductive season, and delayed inter-generational effects in the first generation of offspring. Our phenotypic assays included metabolism, immune capacities, lipid metabolism and oxidative stress. Relative to placebos, lizards treated with corticosterone had higher body condition and lower oxidative damages but an increased skin swelling response directly after the manipulation. Delayed responses in field enclosures were of three types. First, we found catch-up growth for body mass such the placebos had similar body conditions one month after the laboratory manipulation. Second, we found persistent differences in oxidative damages during one month but not one year later. Third, during the next reproductive season, corticosterone-treated females had higher levels of plasma triglycerides, whereas corticosterone-treated individuals had a higher skin swelling response. We found no delayed inter-generational effects on demographic traits of offspring. Our study demonstrates the potential for long-lasting physiological consequences of chronic corticosterone enhancement despite no obvious changes in life history.
Jourde, P. (2004) -
Juana, E. de & Juana, F. de (1982) -
Juillerat (0000) -
Jungnickel, J. (2007) -
Jungnickel, J. (2008) -
The husbandry, propagation, and raising of juveniles of the Northwest Italien Wall Lizard, Podarcis muralis nigriventris BONAPARTE, 1838, is described, providing all relevant details from two years of captive rate.
Jurczyk, K. & Borczyk, B. (2022) -
We present data on the population structure, body size variations and allometric growth patterns for a common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) population from Southwestern Poland. We measured 339 lizards (89 males, 75 females, 63 subadults and 111 juveniles). The sex ratio did not differ from 1:1; however, we recorded intra-seasonal variations. There was significant sexual size dimorphism (males were smaller in body length), as well as tail length (males had longer tails) and body mass dimorphism (females were heavier). We also found sexual differences in the allometric pattern of tail growth, i.e. there was an isometry for males but a negative allometry for females.
Jurinac, A.E. (1886) -
Jurinac, A.E. (1887) -
Kabisch, K. (1966) -
Kabisch, K. (1986) -
Kabisch, K. (2001) -
Algyroides nigropunctatus was observed on the west coast of Corfu around the small bay of Glyfada. The lizards colonized different habitats, consisting mainly of areas influenced by human activities. Territorial behaviour, daily activity and flight distance were observed.
Kabisch, K. & Engelhard, H. (1964) -
Kabisch, K. & Engelmann, W.-E. (1969) -
Kabisch, K. & Engelmann, W.-E. (1970) -
The food of 32 specimens of Lacerta taurica from the Bulgarian Black Sea coast was analysed. The li zards were collected in August1969 on open meadows. The 163 determinable food objects consisted entirely of ground living invertebrates. The most important food items were Heteroptera (22,7 0/o), then Coleop tera (17,2 0/o), Hymenoptera, mostly ants (14,1 0/o) and, despite their abundance, very few grass hoppers (Sal tatoria) (2,5 0/o). Arachnida form 12,8 0/o of the food objects, Isopoda 8,o 0/o.
Kaczmarski, F. (1974) -
Kaczmarski, M. & Ziemblinska, K. & Tryjanowski, P. (2020) -
Digit ratio is a morphological feature regarded as a biomarker of the balance of sex hormones during early development. The exposure of embryos to a set of sex hormones and the mutual relations between those hormones cause the emergence of individual morphological and/or behavioural characteristics as well as differences between sexes. We have thus hypothesised that differences in one of these morphological traits—digit ratio—may be a proxy representing a tendency towards tail autotomy. The aim of this study is to investigate the digit ratio (2D:3D, 2D:4D, 3D:4D) of the sand lizard, Lacerta agilis, Lacertidae, a species characterised by well‐developed sexual dimorphism, whereby females are larger than males. We also tested associations between patterns in digit ratio and caudal autotomy, a common defensive mechanism among lizards. To our knowledge, the relationship between a tendency towards autotomy and digit ratio pattern has never been researched. To date, studies on autotomy have mainly focused on the consequences, costs or evolutionary background of tail loss. Hence, researchers examined mostly the frequency of autotomy in the context of predatory pressure or habitat conditions, omitting an individual`s behavioural tendency to shed its tail. However, behavioural traits can affect an individual`s exposure to predator attack and consequently the need to use an anti‐predator strategy. Thus, following this logic, dropping the tail may be the result of the lizard`s intraspecific personality characteristics, resulting from the effect of hormones on behaviour or innate traits. Therefore, we suggest that the inclusion of autotomy as a factor explaining observed digit ratio patterns and their variability between taxa has great potential. We used computerised measurements of photographed limbs to determine the length of digits. We found that the digit ratios for all four limbs were significantly lower in females than in males, excluding the 3D:4D ratio for the right hindlimbs. Therefore, the results confirmed the pattern already observed for most lizards. The novel element in our study is the detection of the relationship between a tendency towards caudal autotomy and digit ratio. Individuals with a tendency towards autotomy have a higher 2D:4D ratio in the right forelimbs and a lower 2D:3D ratio in the right hindlimbs. Obtained results suggest that these morphological characteristics are most likely related to intraspecific differences (between bold and shy individuals) which consequently may determine an individual`s reaction or susceptibility to be a prey and escape behaviour. Thus, our results are probably the first attempt to link digit ratio to the susceptibility of lizards to tail autotomy.
Kade, K. (2006) -
Kaden, D. (1988) -
Kafash, A. & Ashrafi, S. & Ohler, A. (2018) -
Little is known about altitudinal distribution of lizards in Iran. In the present study we studied distribution pattern of members of family Lacertidae along the eleveatinal gradient in Iran. To determine environmental drivers of distribution pattern of 48 lizard species, all known valid members of family Lacertidae, along elevational gradient in Iran. Firstly, we classified Iran digital elevation model (DEM) based on 100m intervals, that resulted in 56 altitudinal bands and number of species in each band was recorded. Secondly, we extracted mean value of following variables; altitude, slop, area, solar radiation index (SRI), normalized differences vegetation index (NDVI), annual precipitation, precipitation of wettest month, precipitation of driest month precipitation, precipitation of wettest quarter, precipitation of driest quarter, and precipitation of warmest quarter, and using VIF measure correlated variables were removed. Finally, we performed a multiple regression and found that area and precipitation of warmest quarter are the most important drivers of distribution pattern of family Lacertidae along elevational gradient in Iran. General distribution pattern of family Lacertidae was unimodal and maximum number of species living from 1475 m to 1675 m.
انوشه کفاش؛ سهراب اشرفی ؛ آنماری اوهلر (1397) -
اطلاعات اندکی در ارتباط با توزیع ارتفاعی سوسماران در ایران در دسترس است. در حالی که تعیین مناطق ارتفاعی با بیشترین تعداد گونه میتواند برای انتخاب مناطق حفاظت شده مفید باشد. در مطالعه حاضر الگوی توزیع ارتفاعی 48 گونه از سوسماران ایران متعلق به خانواده لاسرتیده در امتداد شیبهای ارتفاعی مورد بررسی قرار گرفت. به منظور تعیین الگوی توزیع ارتفاعی اعضای خانواده لاسرتیده مدل رقومی ارتفاع کشور به طبقات ارتفاعی صد متری تقسیم شد و تعداد گونه در هر طبقه ارتفاعی ثبت شد. ارزش عددی متغیرهای شیب، مساحت، ارتفاع، شاخص تشعشع حرارتی، شاخص نرمال شده پوشش گیاهی، بارش سالیانه، بارش در مرطوب ترین ماه سال، بارش در خشک ترین ماه سال، بارش در مرطوب ترین فصل سال، بارش در سردترین فصل سال، بارش در خشک ترین فصل سال و بارش در گرم ترین فصل سال در هر طبقه ارتفاعی از طریق جعبه ابزار Raster استخراج شده و بعد از بررسی میزان همبستگی بین این متغییرها با استفاده از معیار VIF متغیرهای با همبستگی بالا حذف شدند. سپس با اجرای آنالیز رگرسیون چندگانه مهمترین متغییرهای موثر بر توزیع ارتفاعی گونه های خانواده لاسرتیده دو متغییر مساحت و بارش در گرمترین فصل سال شناسایی شد. الگوی کلی توزیع سوسماران خانواده لاسرتیده در امتداد شیب های ارتفاعی به صورت تک اوجی بوده و بیشترین تعداد گونه ها در ارتفاع 1475 تا 1675حضور دارند.
Kafash, A. & Ashrafi, S. & Ohler, A. & Schmidt, B.R. (2019) -
Within its range, the Caspian green lizard, Lacerta strigata, occurs in the Elburz Mountains (northern Iran) at elevations from below sea level to approximately 2700 m a.s.l. To determine the environmental factors affecting the distribution of this lizard, we used an ensemble approach to model the distribution of the Caspian green lizard (Lacerta strigata) in Iran using four algorithms (generalized boosted model, maximum entropy, generalized linear model, random forest). Results revealed that low-elevation habitats between the Elburz Mountains and the Caspian Sea are the most suitable habitats for the species. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), annual precipitation (both with positive relationships), and altitude (with a negative relationship) were the most important environmental variables influencing the distribution of the species. NDVI was likely the most important variable because it is an indicator of plant productivity, which presumably influences the availability of food resources such as insects. We also tested the validity of an old distribution record for the species near Shiraz in southwestern Iran. The results show that southwestern Iran is not ecologically suitable for the species. As our results highlighted that the NDVI strongly affects distribution of the species, we suggest protection of vegetation cover in the habitat of the species for conservation of Lacerta strigata.
Kafash, A. & Ashrafi, S. & Yousefi, M. & Rastegar-Pouyani, M. & Rajabizadeh, M. & Admadzadeh, F. & Grünig, M. & Pelissier, L. (2020) -
Spatial gradients of species richness can be shaped by the interplay between historical and ecological factors. They might interact in particularly complex ways in heterogeneous mountainous landscapes with strong climatic and geological contrasts. We mapped the distribution of 171 lizard species to investigate species richness patterns for all species (171), diurnal species (101), and nocturnal species (70) separately. We related species richness with the historical (past climate change, mountain uplifting) and ecological variables (climate, topography and vegetation). We found that assemblages in the Western Zagros Mountains, north eastern and north western parts of Central Iranian Plateau have the highest number of lizard species. Among the investigated variables, annual mean temperature explained the largest variance for all species (10%) and nocturnal species (31%). For diurnal species, temperature change velocity shows strongest explained variance in observed richness pattern (26%). Together, our results reveal that areas with annual temperature of 15–20 °C, which receive 400–600 mm precipitation and experienced moderate level of climate change since the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) have highest number of species. Documented patterns of our study provide a baseline for understanding the potential efect of ongoing climate change on lizard diversity in Iran.
Kafimola, S. & Azimi, M. & Saberi-Pirooz, R. & Ilgaz, C. & Kashani, G.M. & Kapli, P. & Ahmadzadeh, F. (2023) -
Mountains play a key role in forming biodiversity by acting both as barriers to gene flow among populations and as corridors for the migration of populations adapted to the conditions prevailing at high elevations. The Anatolian and the Zagros Mountains are located in the Alpine-Himalayan belt. The formation of these mountains has influenced the distribution and isolation of the animal population since the late Cenozoic. Apathya is a genus of lacertid lizards distributed along these mountains with two species, i.e., Apathya cappadocica and Apathya yassujica. The taxonomy status of lineages within the genus is complicated. In this study, we tried to collect extensive samples from throughout the distribution range, especially within the Zagros Mountains. Also, we used five genetic markers, two mitochondrial (COI and Cyt b) and three nuclear (C-mos, NKTR, and MCIR), to resolve the phylogenetic relationships within the genus and explain several possible scenarios that shaped multiple genetic structures. The combination of results in the current study indicated eight well-support monophyletic lineages that separated to two main groups; group 1 including A. c. cappadocica, A. c. muhtari and A. c. wolteri, group 2 contains four regional clades Turkey, Urmia, Baneh and Ilam, and finally a single clade belonging to the species A. yassujica. In contrast to previous studies, Apathya cappadocica urmiana was divided into four clades and three clades were recognized within Iranian boundaries. The clades have dispersed from Anatolia to adjacent regions in the south of Anatolia and the western Zagros Mountains. According to the evidence generated in this study this clade is paraphyletic. Based on our assumption, orogeny activities and also climate fluctuations in Middle Miocene and Pleistocene have influenced to formation of lineages. In this study we revisit the taxonomy of the genus and demonstrate that the species diversity was substantially underestimated. Our findings suggest that each of the eight clades corresponding to subspecies and distinct geographic regions deserve to be promoted to species level.
Kain, S. (2010) -
Kaisila, J. (1949) -
Kalaentzis, K. & Strachinis, I. & Katsiyiannis, P. & Oefinger, P. & Kazilas, C. (2018) -
Based on several recent herpetological surveys on the Kastellorizo archipelago in the Eastern Mediterranean, we present a review of the herpetofauna of the area. Active searching and visual encounter surveys on Kastellorizo confirmed the presence of two species of amphibians and thirteen species of reptiles, and in conjunction with the available literature data, brought the terrestrial herpetofauna of the island to a total of 17 species. In addition, during a one-day herpetological survey on Psomi islet, we encountered individuals of Anatololacerta sp. and Mediodactylus cf. danilewskii. Based on the analysis of the mitochondrial gene cytb, the recently discovered lizard population from the settlement of Megisti was identified as Anatololacerta pelasgiana (Mertens, 1959), while that of Psomi islet as Anatololacerta budaki (Eiselt and Schmidtler, 1986), a new addition to the herpetofauna of Greece. We reported on the extant herpetofauna of Kastellorizo and Psomi islet providing a species list that includes four new species records, namely A. pelasgiana, A. budaki, Platyceps najadum (Eichwald, 1831), and Telescopus fallax (Fleischmann, 1831). Our results expand our knowledge on the biogeography of the region and the insular distribution of the species. We also discuss the possible introduction ways of the non-native lizard A. pelasgiana, recent taxonomic revisions, and possible erroneous records.
Kalayci, T.E. & Gül, C. & Tosunoglu, M. & Özdemir, N. (2018) -
Die Autoren untersuchten die Altersstruktur zweier Stichproben (Edirne: 17 m a.s.l. und Bolu: 1,250 m a.s.l.) von Lacerta trilineata Bedriaga, 1886 in der Türkei. Die Altersbestimmung mittels Skeletochronologie ergab Höchstalter von etwa sieben Jahren in der Stichprobe von Bolu und fünf in der von Edirne. die Überlebensrate bei Eintritt in die Geschlechtsreife betrug 0,59 % bei den Männchen und 0,24 % bei den Weibchen von Bolu. die entsprechende Lebenserwartung belief sich in dieser Stichprobe auf 2,94 Jahre für die Männchen und 1,82 fur die Weibchen. der Eintritt in die Geschlechtsreife erfolgte in beiden Stichproben im Alter von zwei Jahren. obwohl das mittlere Alter in der Stichprobe der Hochlandpopulation höher war als in der des Tieflandes, war die mittlere Kopf-Rumpf-Länge in letzterer größer.
Kalayci, T.E. & Uysal, I. & Gül, C. & Özdemir, N. (2020) -
Longevity and age of sexual maturity are key life history trait factors directly linked to ecological and evolutionary aspects. In this study, we determined age structure of Parvilacerta parva individuals from Sivas (Turkey) using skeletochronology. The maximum age was found to be seven years for females and six years for males of P. parva. A significant relationship was found between age and body size in individuals whose head length, head width and body length were measured. Additionally, it was seen that there is a significant relationship among body length, head length and head width.
Kalčićek, M. (2012) -
Every known case of natural hybridization is related with changes of natural habitat, mostly connected with human activity such as introduction of Podarcis sicula on islands Marettimo and Vulcano and with increase of the sympatric space. Changes in habitats could have resulted in weakening of the isolation mechanisms which could have led into hybridization. Evidence of hybrids were found using electrophoretic analysis of the allozymes, thanks to which diagnostic loci were discovered. The genetically pure Podarcis sicula has Idh- , Got- , Mpi, Gpi, while genetically pure Podarcis tiliguerta has Idh- , Got- , Mpi, Gpi. Thanks to this, hybrid zone was detected about 3 km NW from Capoterra (south Sardinia), with width no greater than 1 km. Backcross individuals were not found at this location. In second case, populations from Sardinia, Aegadian and Aeolian Archipelago were analysed (the total of 302 individuals). Here the diagnostic loci for Podarcis sicula were Gapd, Got- , Gp- , Gp- , and for Podarcis wagleriana Gapd, Got- , Gp- , Gp- . F1 Hybrids were found with following loci : Gapd , Got- , Gp- , as well as the backcross individuals with loci Gapd, Gp- , Gp- , and loci Got- that was previously typical for Podarcis wagleriana. This shows that hybridization took place in Marettimo and Volcano where the isolation mechanisms were weakened. In my opinion, M. Capula managed to prove the hybridization in both cases, thanks to allozyme analysis. The mere fact that backcross individuals were found indicates that species successfully overcame isolation mechanisms, and the fact that they were able to produce fertile offsprings indicates that more research is needed to discover the ecology of these individuals. Also I think that it is very important to carry out a study on hybridization on our coast, keeping in mind the very nature of Podarcis sicula and her exceptional ability to adapt. Also, a very interesting fact, in my opinion, is that all hybrids were found in degradated and alternated habitats so further research would be advised to learn exactly which factors influence the rise of hybridization and why.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2021) -
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Adams, D.C. & Carretero, M.A. (2013) -
Understanding how phenotypic diversity evolves is a major objective of evolutionary biology. Iberian and North African Podarcis are a lizard group of astonishing morphological diversity, thus providing an intriguing model system for studying the causes underlying phenotypic evolution. We examined body size and shape variation at the individual and evolutionary lineage level in relation to sexual dimorphism (SD) and habitat use, to trace the potential effects of sexual and natural selection on different morphological traits. The results obtained indicate that SD is a major source of phenotypic variation in this group, with significant effects on all examined variables at the individual level. Habitat use also explains large part of the variation observed at the individual level, but surprisingly is not associated to body size and limb length variation, as has been the case in other lizard groups. Comparative analyses of trait evolution using the most recent mtDNA phylogeny of the group indicate a significant difference between habitats in male head shape, where males of saxicolous species exhibit relatively flatter and shorter heads than ground-dwelling ones. Such variation is also reflected on macroevolutionary patterns of sexual dimorphism, which also varies across habitats, possibly indicating an interaction between sexual and natural selection. Comparison of evolutionary rates between habitats showed that male head shape has evolved about 9 times faster in saxicolous species. Remarkably, limb length was not associated to habitat use at the macroevolutionary level, contradicting predictions of the ecomorphological paradigm and previous observations on other lizard groups. Indeed, a comparison of evolutionary rates across traits demonstrated that head dimensions have evolved much faster in this group of lizards as compared to limb length. Together our results shed new light to the evolution of the remarkable morphological diversity of this lizard group.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Adams, D.C. & Meijdedn, A. v.d. & Peters, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Understanding the relationship between form and function is central to our comprehension of how phenotypic diversity evolves. Traits involved in multiple activities, such as social interactions and ecological resource use, are under the influence of different evolutionary forces potentially acting in opposite directions. Such systems provide the opportunity of understanding how potential constraints on morphological variation may influence whole-organism performance. In this study we examined morphology and bite performance in two closely related species of Podarcis wall lizards with divergent microhabitat preferences, to investigate how natural and sexual selection interact to shape the evolution of head traits. Our results show that although head morphology is markedly different between species and sexes, only sexes differ in bite force, indicating that the ecological differentiation between species is reflected in their morphology but does not constrain performance. Rather, the modification of the relative size of head components between species and a shift in the form-function relationship provide a potential explanation of how equal performance is attained by different morphological configurations. Geometric morphometrics provide a clear, biomechanically meaningful image of how this is achieved and show a bisexual pattern of head shape-bite force association in both species. This, together with a strong allometry of head size on body size and head shape on head size, provides indirect morphological evidence for the importance of sexual selection in shaping morphological and functional patterns. Finally, our findings suggest that the differences observed between species and sexes in head traits and bite performance are not reflected in their dietary ecology, implying that if trophic niche segregation between groups occurs, the reasons behind it are not primarily related to head morphology and functional variation.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Bandeira, V. (2013) -
Sexual dimorphism (SD) is the result of evolutionary pressures acting differentially on members of each sex. Investigating the association between SD observed in different sets of phenotypic traits, which are evolutionarily linked, can shed light on the mechanisms causing SD variation within and across species. Although the association between morphology and locomotor performance is a major paradigm in ecomorphology, substantially less effort has been dedicated to investigate the covariation between both sets of traits in the context of sexual divergence. Here, we investigated morphology and locomotor performance in wall lizards Podarcis bocagei to determine if locomotor SD exists in this species, as one may expect based on the morphological SD observed, and test whether both types of SD are directly associated. Our results indicate that significant morphological and locomotor SD exists in this species, reporting a significant locomotor SD for the first time in this genus of lizards. Our study also provides evidence that a direct association between morphology and performance exists at the individual level, binding together SD in both sets of traits. The observed patterns of SD suggest that male locomotor capacity and the corresponding morphological features are well suited for sprinting in level surfaces, but less so for other types of locomotion, potentially as a result of sexual selection acting on male locomotor performance through influences on territory defence and reproductive fitness.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Bandeira, V. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Sexual dimorphism (SD) in locomotor performance is prominent in many species of lizards. This functional pattern is related to both size and shape SD and it has been associated to sexual selection on males, related to territorial behaviour. Locomotor capacities of lacertid lizards are related to habitat variation, following ecomorphological predictions, but SD has not been extensively investigated. The few existing studies have indicated a lack of SD in this respect. We investigated SD in locomotor performance and its relation to morphological traits in a population of Podarcis bocagei, a species endemic to the Iberian Peninsula. We measured sprinting, climbing and clambering speed, as well as manoeuvrability, of adult male and female P. bocagei in a racing track. We also quantiied body size and shape, including characters potentially relevant for locomotion, in the same individuals. Our results indicate that while SD in performance is not signiicant when looking at each locomotor component separately, diferences between sexes are signiicant when treating the data in a multivariate framework. This is due to diferences between sexes in the trade-ofs between conditions: while females are relatively stable across designs, males are fast sprinters, but sufer a visible reduction of their locomotor capacity when climbing or serpentizing. Fitting biomechanical predictions and previous observations, the morphological variables associated to locomotor performance are total body size and limb length. Our study suggests that signiicant, but previously unnoticed, SD may exist in locomotor performance in lacertids and remarks the importance of multivariate analyses when examining performance capacities.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Brito, J.C. & Carretero, M.A. & Larbes, S. & Harris, D.J. (2008) -
Species distribution modelling (SDM) is a powerful tool to investigate various biological questions with a spatial component, but is also sensitive to presence-data characteristics, particularly data precision and clustering. Here, we investigate the effect of these two factors on SDM using Maxent as the modelling technique and wall lizards (genus Podarcis Wagler, 1830) from North Africa as a model system. Podarcis are not ubiquitous in Africa as they are in Europe, but their ecological and distributional characteristics in this area are poorly known. Our results show that the most important environmental factors related to the distribution of this genus in North Africa are humidity, habitat type, and temperature. The areas of potential distribution predicted by models based on data sets with different precision and clustering characteristics show high relatedness to coastal areas and mountain ranges and extend to areas were presence records for these lizards are lacking. Our comparison of models based on different data sets indicates that finer scale models, even if based on fewer presence locations, outperform coarser scale ones. Data clustering does not have a negative effect on model performance, but is rather overcome by sample-size effects. Similar approaches may be of general application to other stenoic species for which available locations are scarce in comparison with the extension of the study area.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Brito, J.C. & Larbes, S. & Carretero, M.A. (2007) -
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carreter, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (2010) -
Morphological variation in relation to habitat is known to occur in several lizard groups. Comparative studies have linked morphology and habitat use, showing that locomotion is the principal mediator of this evolutionary relationship. We investigated intraspecific ecomorphological variation in Podarcis bocagei by examining three habitat types, representing a variety between saxicolous and ground-dwelling habits. Our results indicate variation in absolute and relative limb length, but patterns are only partially concordant to biomechanical predictions. While the femur and hind foot are longer in ground-dwelling lizards, confirming previous observations, the tibia and hind limb are relatively shorter, contradicting expectations. Additionally, head shape varies substantially between habitats, in line with a hypothesis of mechanical restrictions related to microhabitat and refuge use. Finally, we detect male-specific variation between habitats in total body size and head size, providing evidence for interactions between natural and sexual selection. Interestingly, the results obtained about head size and shape partially coincide with the interspecific ecomorphological variation across the whole genus Podarcis. Although performance and behaviour studies are necessary to definitely confirm the functional and evolutionary significance of the observed patterns, our study indicates that ecomorphological adaptations can arise in a very short evolutionary time in this group of lizards.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2006) -
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Adams, D.C. (2015) -
Understanding how phenotypic diversity evolves is a major interest of evolutionary biology. Habitat use is an important factor in the evolution of phenotypic diversity of many animal species. Interestingly, male and female phenotypes have been frequently shown to respond differently to environmental variation. At the macroevolutionary level, this difference between the sexes is frequently analysed using phylogenetic comparative tools to assess variation in sexual dimorphism (SD) across taxa in relation to habitat. A shortcoming of such analyses is that they evaluate the degree of dimorphism itself and therefore they do not provide access to the evolutionary trajectories of each sex. As such, the relative contribution of male and female phenotypes on macroevolutionary patterns of sexual dimorphism cannot be directly assessed. Here, we investigate how habitat use shapes phenotypic diversity in wall lizards using phylogenetic comparative tools to simultaneously assess the tempo and mode of evolution in males, females and the degree of sexual dimorphism. We find that both sexes have globally diversified under similar, but not identical, processes, where habitat use seems to drive macroevolutionary variation in head shape, but not in body size or relative limb length. However, we also observe small differences in the evolutionary dynamics of male and female phenotypes that have a marked impact on macroevolutionary patterns of SD, with important implications for our interpretation of what drives phenotypic diversification within and between the sexes.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Gustavo, A.L. (2007) -
Podarcis bocagei and P. carbonelli are two closely related lacertid species, very similar morphologically and ecologically. We investigated sexual dimorphism patterns presented by both species in allopatry and in sympatry. Sexual size and shape dimorphism patterns were analyzed using both multivariate and geometric morphometric techniques. Multivariate morphometrics revealed a marked sexual dimorphism in both species—males being larger with more robust habitus and females presenting a longer trunk. General patterns of sexual size dimorphism are not modified in sympatry, although there is evidence for some morphological change in male head size. The application of geometric morphometrics offered a more detailed image of head shape and revealed that males present a more developed tympanic area than do females, while females have a more rounded head. Differences in the degree of sexual shape dimorphism were detected in sympatry, but no consistent patterns were observed. From the results of the study, and based on previous knowledge on the populations studied, we conclude that the morphological differences observed are probably not caused by exploitative competition between the species, but rather appear attributable to the modification of the relative influence of sexual and natural selection on both sexes.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. & Brito, J. & Llorente, G,A. (2006) -
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G. (2006) -
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G. (2010) -
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (2005) -
Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis carbonelli are two closely related species, endemic to the western Iberian Peninsula, whose biometric differences have already been established. However, their pholidosis has not been investigated in detail. We studied various pholidotic characters, often used for taxonomic purposes in the Lacertidae, in order to analyse scalation patterns in the two species and detect characters that could be useful for their diagnosis. The results show that both species present significant differences in various pholidotic characters, although patterns differ between the sexes. The combination of continuous and meristic characters allowed a good discrimination between P. bocagei and P. carbonelli, especially when sexes were separated a priori. However, the close phylogenetic relationship between the two species, along with their high intraspecific morphological variability, complicate the use of pholidotic characters as diagnostic tools in the field.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (2007) -
Podarcis bocagei and P. carbonelli are two closely related lacertid species, very similar morphologically and ecologically. We investigated sexual dimorphism patterns presented by both species in allopatry and in sympatry. Sexual size and shape dimorphism patterns were analyzed using both multivariate and geometric morphometric techniques. Multivariate morphometrics revealed a marked sexual dimorphism in both species--males being larger with more robust habitus and females presenting a longer trunk. General patterns of sexual size dimorphism are not modified in sympatry, although there is evidence for some morphological change in male head size. The application of geometric morphometrics offered a more detailed image of head shape and revealed that males present a more developed tympanic area than do females, while females have a more rounded head. Differences in the degree of sexual shape dimorphism were detected in sympatry, but no consistent patterns were observed. From the results of the study, and based on previous knowledge on the populations studied, we conclude that the morphological differences observed are probably not caused by exploitative competition between the species, but rather appear attributable to the modification of the relative influence of sexual and natural selection on both sexes.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (2008) -
Podarcis bocagei and P. carbonelli are two closely related lizard species, endemic to the western Iberian Peninsula. Although genetic and morphological distinction between them is now well established, information on anatomical features is still very restricted. We studied presacral vertebrae number in both species, separately examining cervical and trunk vertebrae counts, in order to assess the interspecific and intersexual variation in these characters. There was no significant interspecific variation among lizards of the same sex for any of the vertebrae counts studied. However, important sexual variation existed, females presenting higher counts than males for both trunk and total presacral vertebrae, while males showed higher values of cervical vertebrae. Although our results lie within the known limits for other closely related species, they reveal that vertebrae number might present higher intraspecific variation than previously thought.
Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis carbonelli are two lacertid species endemic to the western Iberian Peninsula, and both show head size and shape sexual dimorphism. We studied immature and adult head sexual dimorphism and analysed ontogenetic trajectories of head traits with body and head size, aiming to shed light on the proximate mechanisms involved. Immatures were much less dimorphic than adults, but geometric morphometric techniques revealed that head shape sexual differences are already present at this stage. Males and females differed in allometry of all head characters with body size, with males showing a disproportionate increase of head size and dimensions. On the other hand, head dimensions and head shape changed with increasing head size following similar trends in both sexes, possibly indicating developmental restrictions. Consequently, adult sexual dimor- phism for head characters in these species is the result of both shape differences in the immature stage and hypermetric growth of the head in relation to body size in males.
The head of lacertid lizards is an extremely interesting structure, serving as a model for studying mosaic evolution. It serves various functions, all crucial for the lizards’ survival and reproductive success, including habitat and refuge use, feeding, male antagonistic behaviour and mating. Among these factors, habitat and refuge use has been proposed as the main factor driving head shape evolution. Podarcis wall lizards provide an appealing model system because they occupy a wide variety of different habitats. Here we explore head shape variability in relation to habitat use, using data on all the presently recognised species of this genus. We assigned species to four categories based on their general habitat preferences according to the literature and expert knowledge. We used both linear biometry and geometric morphometrics in order to study the particular modifications related to habitat use in this genus. Head dimensions gave a general idea of such modifications. As expected, saxicolous species had flatter and wider heads, while ground-dwelling ones were higher and narrower. The use of geometric morphometrics permitted us the visualisation of specific head shape modifications: in comparison with saxicolous species, ground-dwellers have shorter snouts and a less developed parietal region. Laterally, their heads are also more compact, presenting an enlargement of the entire head posterior to the eye. Nevertheless, insular species were visibly distinct, revealing the existence of selective pressures other than habitat influencing head shape. The degree of sexual dimorphism also varied between habitat types. The preliminary results available give us a much more detailed image of the adaptive modifications of head shape in relation to habitat use and allow us to explore the mechanical restrictions imposed and formulate further hypotheses to be tested.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (2010) -
Sexual dimorphism in body size and shape in animals is normally linked to sexual selection mechanisms that modify the morphological properties of each sex. However, sexual dimorphism of ecologically relevant traits may be amplified by natural selection and result in the ecological segregation of both sexes. In the present study, we investigated patterns of sexual dimorphism of morphological traits relevant for locomotion in two lacertid lizards, Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis carbonelli, aiming to identify ontogenetic sources of variation. We analysed trunk and limb variation in relation to total body size, as well as the covariation of different traits, aiming to shed light on the proximate causation of adult sexual dimorphism. We find that, although immatures are generally monomorphic, adult females have a longer trunk, and adult males have longer fore and hind limbs. Both sexes differ substantially with respect to their growth trajectories and relationships between traits, whereas, in some cases, there are signs of morphological constraints delimiting the observed patterns. Because of the direct connection between limb size/shape and locomotor performance, which is relevant both for habitat use and escape from predators, the observed patterns of sexual dimorphism are expected to translate into ecological differences between both sexes.
Morphological variation in relation to habitat is known to occur in several lizard groups. Comparative studies have linked morphology and habitat use, showing that locomotion is the principal mediator of this evolutionary relationship. Here, we investigate intraspecific ecomorphological variation in Podarcis bocagei by examining three habitat types, representing a variety between saxicolous and ground-dwelling habits. Our results indicate variation in absolute and relative limb length, but patterns are only partially concordant to biomechanical predictions. Whereas the femur and hind foot are longer in ground-dwelling lizards, confirming previous observations, the tibia and hind limb are relatively shorter, contradicting expectations. Additionally, head shape varies substantially between habitats, in line with a hypothesis of mechanical restrictions related to microhabitat and refuge use. Finally, we detect male-specific variation between habitats in total body size and head size, providing evidence for interactions between natural and sexual selection. Although performance and behaviour studies are necessary to definitely confirm the functional and evolutionary significance of the observed patterns, our study indicates that ecomorphological adaptations can arise in a very short evolutionary time in this group of lizards.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (2012) -
Cryptic species complexes represent groups that have been classified as a single species, because of the difficulty in distinguishing its members morphologically. Morphological investigation following the discovery of cryptic diversity is crucial for describing and conserving biodiversity. Here we present a detailed account of morphological variation in a group of Iberian and North African Podarcis wall lizards of the family Lacertidae, trying to elucidate the morphological patterns observed between known mitochondrial lineages. Our results reveal very high morphological variation within lineages, considering both biometric and pholidotic traits, but also indicate that lineages are significantly different from each other. The main sources of variation, both globally and between lineages, arise from body size, head dimensions, and limb length, possibly pointing to underlying ecological mechanisms. A combination of body size, body shape, and continuous pholidotic traits allows a relatively good discrimination between groups, especially when comparing one group with the rest or pairs of groups. However, ranges of variation greatly overlap between groups, thereby not allowing the establishment of diagnostic traits. The high morphological variation observed indicates that external morphology is not particularly useful for species delimitation in this group of lizards, as local adaptation seems to play a major role in within- and between-group differentiation.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Sillero, N. (2010) -
Podarcis carbonelli is a lacertid lizard endemic to the western Iberian Peninsula, with a highly fragmented distribution and complex patterns of phylogeographic structure. Here, we investigate intraspecific morphological variability in this species, considering both biometric and pholidotic traits. Our results reveal local patterns of variation in total body size and scalation, but also indicate the existence of gradual, geographically structured morphological variation when size-independent biometry is considered. Total body size is the main factor determining variation across our sample, but this seems to be the result of within-population variability in this trait and is not geographically structured. The southern isolated populations seem highly differentiated in morphological terms, a pattern that also corresponds to singular environmental conditions and distinctive genetic variation, and should therefore be the focus of special attention for future investigation and conservation.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A., & Llorente, G.A. & Santos, X. & Llorente, C. (2006) -
Size and shape sexual dimorphism have long been of great interest for animal biologists and herpetologists. Although general trends do exist, every species may represent a particular case and intraspecific variation in the degree and patterns of sexual dimorphism is not rare. In the case of P. hispanica, which presents a high morphological variability and whose intraspecific taxonomy is yet not well defined, interpopulations differences could help to elucidate the morphological patterns observed. The results of a morphological analysis of a population belonging the NE form of P. hispanica are here provided. A marked sexual dimorphism exists for the characters studied, both biometric and pholidotic, although sexual dimorphism in SVL is absent. Sexual differences in pholidotic characters, rarely examined, were marked, not only in femoral pores and ventral scales which are the characters usually studied in lizards. But also in gular scales and subdigital lamellae. The patterns of size and shape sexual dimorphism were in some cases also refelcted in the analysis of static allometries. Influences of sexual and natural selection on those traits are discussed.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Gomes, V. & Freitas, I. & Carretero, M.A. & Pinho, C. & Salvi, D. (2019) -
Deciphering how species and phenotypic diversity emerge is a major objective of evolutionary research, with important implications for our capacity to protect biodiversity. A powerful tool to understand how historical and contemporary processes influencethe evolution of biodiversity is to combine phylogenetic inferences with information on phenotypic traits which reflect ecological responses to the environment. Podarcis wall lizards are a symbolic element of Mediterranean ecosystems, and their evolution is representative of the complex biogeographic and climatic history of this region. Their phylogenetic relationships have long puzzled European herpetologists, due to a basal polytomy, which may point to a quick radiation early in the history of the group. We combined a phylogenetic hypothesis inferred based on mitochondrial and nuclear genes and a series of morphological and functional traits, to test whether there are signs of an adaptive radiation in thi genus of Mediterranean lizards. The cladogenetic pattern is in accordance with a scenario of a fast diversification early in the history of the genus, with the emergence of new lineages slowing down through time. However, phenotypic traits provide mixed evidence: while body size seems to have evolved under random processes, relative head size and limb length, as well as sprinting capacity, bare signs of adaptive evolution. Interestingly, though, our results do not support a scenario of an early burst of phenotypic diversification under an adaptive radiation in this group. Instead, phenotypic evolution may have rather proceeded in response to other ecological factors, such as insularity or habitat use.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Llorente, G.A. & Carettero, M.A. & Llorente, C. (2004) -
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & MIGUEL, A. & Carretero, M.A. & LLORENTE, G.A. (2007) -
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Mourao, P. (2014) -
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Pinho, C. & Brito, J.C. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. & Llorente, G.A. (2007) -
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Pinho, C. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Evolutionary inference based on molecular phylogenetic methods has profoundly modified the way that we understand biological diversity, unravelling a higher evolutionary diversity than previously considered. An exemplary case of this is the group of Iberian and North African Podarcis wall lizards. More investigated than any other reptile group in Europe, the Podarcis hispanica species complex comprises unexpectedly high levels of phylogenetic diversity and illustrates how the discovery of further cryptic diversity may entangle evolutionary inference. In the present study, we report on the discovery of two new mitochondrial lineages in this species complex, reassess the phylogeny of the group, infer the age of major phylogenetic splits, and provide a detailed description of the geographical distributions of all known mitochondrial DNA lineages. Our data show that the differentiation of major lineages is older than previously considered, in most cases predating the Messinian salinity crisis. The new lineages discovered and their position in the phylogeny of the group profoundly modify previous biogeographical scenarios, clearly showing that the area today corresponding to the south-eastern corner of the Iberian Peninsula is a very important centre of diversification. The dating obtained for the differentiation of the lineages currently inhabiting this area coincides with the complex geological events that took place during the Miocene/Pleistocene transition, supporting the idea that both land movements and dramatic climatic oscillations during that period could be involved. Finally, the discovery of these new lineages, together with the observed distribution patterns, not only further augments the uncertainty associated to our understanding of the evolutionary history of this group of lizards, but also points to new areas of interest for future investigation.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Pinho, C. & Martinez-Freiria, F. (2018) -
Background: Understanding how phenotypic variation scales from individuals, through populations, up to species, and how it relates to genetic and environmental factors, is essential for deciphering the evolutionary mechanisms that drive biodiversity. We used two species of Podarcis wall lizards to test whether phenotypic diversity within and divergence across populations follow concordant patterns, and to examine how phenotypic variation responds to genetic and environmental variability across different hierarchical levels of biological organization, in an explicit geographic framework. Results: We found a general concordance of phenotypic variation across hierarchical levels (i.e. individuals and populations). However, we also found that within-population diversity does not exhibit a coherent geographic structure for most traits, while among-population divergence does, suggesting that different mechanisms may underlie the generation of diversity at these two levels. Furthermore, the association of phenotypic variation with genetic and environmental factors varied extensively between hierarchical levels and across traits, hampering the identification of simple rules to explain what yields diversity. Conclusions: Our results in some cases comply with general ecological and evolutionary predictions, but in others they are difficult to explain in the geographic framework used, suggesting that habitat characteristics and other regulatory mechanisms may have a more substantial contribution in shaping phenotypic diversity.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Salvi, D. & Gomes, V. & Maia, J.P.M.C. & Kaliontzopoulou, P. (2013) -
Polydactyly is a fairly frequent phenomenon in tetrapod populations, but it is relatively rare in reptiles. Here we report the occurrence of polydactyly in a random sample of the Tyrrhenian wall lizard (Podarcis tiliguerta) from Sardinia. In the locality of Siniscola (NE Sardinia), we found two polydactylous female lizards, one of which showed polydactyly in one and the other in both hind limbs. This observation constitutes, to the best of our knowledge, the highest frequency of polydactyly ever reported in a single lizard population (4.54%). While providing a direct explanation for polydactyly is complicated, the genetic data available show that the two polydactylous individuals are not direct siblings, excluding the hypothesis of direct maternal inheritance of this condition.
Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Sillero, N. & Martinez-Fereira, F. & Carretero, M.A. & Brito, J.C. (2009) -
Kalogiannis, S. (2020) -
This note presents photographic material and a detailed description of a concolor morph in Podarcis erhardii (Bedriaga, 1882) and the first published record of this morph on Alonissos. Data on the observation and a short review of the literature are also given.
Kalogiannis, S. & Stefanopoulos, P. (2023) -
Palaio Trikeri is a small 2.5 km² island in the Pagasetic gulf. We conducted the first herpetological survey on the island and confirmed the presence of 5 reptile species, specifically 4 species of lizards and 1 species of snake. Brief observations on other fauna were also made and are mentioned in the discussion. The identity of green lizards on Palaio Trikeri needs to be investigated, while further fieldwork could be carried out in the future in order to uncover the potential presence of additional species.
Kalyaabina, S.A. & Milto, K.D. & Ananjeva, N.B. & Joger, U. & Wink, M. (2000) -
Kalyabana-Hauf, S. & Deichsel, G. (2002) -
Kalyabina-Hauf, S.A. (2003) -
Kalyabina-Hauf, S.A. & Ananjeva, N.B. (2004) -
Kalyabina-Hauf, S.A. & Milto, K.D. & Ananjeva, N.B. & Joger, U. & Kotenko, T.I. & Wink, M. (2004) -
According to our results based on the nucleotide sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome b gene of Lacerta agilis sand lizards from Crimean mountain region turned to be genetically different from known subspecies. The Crimean sand lizards form a separate group, closely related to Lacerta agilis exigua subspecies. A comparative morphological analysis of the Crimean Lacerta agilis was conducted and revealed some differences of analyzed lizards with respect to other subspecies of the sand lizards. Both molecular and morphological data led to the conclusion about the distinct taxonomical status of the Crimean Lacerta agilis. Redescription of Lacerta agilis tauridica is given and neotype is designated.
Kalyabina-Hauf, S.A. & Milto, K.D. & Ananjeva, N.B. & Legal, L. & Joger, U. & M. Wink (2003) -
Kalyabina-Hauf, S.A. & Milto, K.D. & Ananjeva, N.B. & Legal, L. & Joger, U. & Wink, M. (2001) -
The phylogeny and phylogeography of Lacerta agilis was inferred from the nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. Lacerta agilis (Sauria: Lacertidae) is a widespread species composed of several described subspecies. Fifty specimens of Lacerta agilis were studied from different locations throughout the distribution range. Two species, Lacerta media and Lacerta praticola were used as outgroup taxa. Within Lacerta agilis three genetically distinct groups were found. The first monophyletic group (morphologically treated as L. a. brevicaudata and L. a. exigua subspecies) includes specimens from a large part of European Russia, Caucasus, and Kazakhstan. The second monophyletic group comprises two subgroups of L. a. agilis specimens from Denmark, Germany, Czech Republic and L. a. chersonensis from Northwest Russia. Specimens of L. a. boemica from Northern Caucasus form the separate group, which appears to be genetically distinct from other groups of Lacerta agilis. Some hypotheses on the history of the distribution of Lacerta agilis are proposed considering the molecular data.
Kalyuzhny, M. & Haran, T. & Hawlena, D. (2018) -
1. Movement‐based indices such as moves per minute (MPM) and proportion time moving (PTM) are common methodologies to quantify foraging behaviour. Hundreds of studies have reported these indices without specifying the temporal resolution of their original data, despite the likelihood that the minimal stop and move durations can affect MPM and PTM estimates. 2. Our goal was to empirically determine the sensitivity of these foraging indices to changes in the temporal resolution of the observation. 3. We used a high speed camera to record movement sequences of 20 Acanthodactylus boskianus lizards. We gradually decreased the data resolution by ignoring short stops and either ignoring, elongating or leaving short moves unchanged. We then used the manipulated data to calculate the foraging indices at different temporal resolutions. 4. We found that movement-based indices are very sensitive to the observation resolution, so that realistic variation in the minimal duration of stops and moves could lead to 68% and 48% difference in MPM and PTM estimates, respectively. When using the highest resolution, our estimate of MPM was an order of magnitude higher than all prior reported values for lizards. Also, the distribution of stop durations was well described by a single heavy tailed distribution above 0.35 seconds. This suggests that for A. boskianus there is no reason to ignore short stops above this threshold. 5. Our results raise major concerns regarding the use of already published movement based indices, and enable us to recommend how new foraging data should be collected.
Kalyuzhny, M. & Haran, T. & Hawlena, D. (2019) -
Movement‐based indices such as moves per minute (MPM) and proportion time moving (PTM) are common methodologies to quantify foraging behavior. Hundreds of studies have reported these indices, many without specifying the temporal resolution of their original data, and others using varying resolutions. This was done despite the likelihood that observation resolution can affect MPM and PTM estimates. Our goal was to empirically determine the sensitivity of these foraging indices to changes in the temporal resolution of the observation. We used a high-speed camera to record movement sequences of 20 Acanthodactylus boskianus lizards. Then, we gradually decreased the resolution of the data and calculated the foraging indices at different temporal resolutions. When considering the range of temporal resolutions that are relevant for field observations with unassisted vision, we found 68% and 48% difference in MPM and PTM estimates, respectively. When using the highest resolution, our estimate of MPM was an order of magnitude higher than all prior reported values for lizards. Our results raise major concerns regarding the use of already published movement-based indices, and enable us to recommend how new foraging data should be collected.
Kamal, A.M. & Abdeen, A.M. (1972) -
he trabeculae cranii are at first quite separate from each other, after few days their anterior two fifths are connected by a trabecular plate which is obliterated throughout development. The paired origin of the parachordal plate is not observed. The fused posterior orbital cartilages chondrify in the form of a wide short plate, traversed by the oculomotor and trochlear nerves. The basicranial fenestra and fenestra ovalis are formed by the degeneration of pre-existing cartilage. The cochlear portion is completely fused with the parachordal plate from the very beginning. The elements of the pterygoquadrate are fused together. The quadrate and Meckel`s cartilage are in close contact from the very beginning. While the lower part of the interorbital septum is derived from the trabecula communis, its upper part is derived from the anterior orbital cartilages. The lateral parts of the fused posterior orbital cartilages give rise to most of the taeniae and pilae of the orbitotemporal region. There is only one commissure between the auditory capsule and parachordal plate. A cartilaginous connection between the distal portion of the columella auris and ceratohyal persists for some time. The parietotectal and paranasal cartilages are fused together from the very beginning. The processus paroticus originates from the columella auris. In the fully formed stage the notochord is completely embedded in the occipital condyle. The union between the condyle and odontoid process persists. The auditory capsules and occipital arches contribute to the formation of the tectum synoticum plus posterius. The prefacial commissure and facial foramen lie in front of the cochlear portion. The columella auris possesses a processus internus (connected with the quadrate), but the processes a dorsalis has completely disappeared. The orbitotemporal region is quite complete. A medial fenestra is formed in the planum supraseptale. A fenestra is observed in each of the interorbital and nasal septa. The lamina transversalis anterior is fused with the parietotectal cartilage. A complete zona annularis is present. The outer wall of the paranasal cartilage is perforated by a large fenestra lateralis. The parietotectal and paranasal cartilages and the posterior process of the lamina transversalis anterior contribute to the formation of the concha nasalis. There is a contact between the planum antorbitale and nasal septum. The pterygoid process has disappeared. The common characters of the lacertid chondrocranuium are deduced.
Kamali, K. (2012) -
Kamali, K. (2013) -
Kamali, K. (2020) -
Kaminsky, U. (2023) -
Kammel, W. (1992) -
In September 1991 and from April until September 1992 investigations were made in search of relic populations of Vipera ursinii rakosiensis (MEHELY, 1894) in the `Seewinkel` area (east of Neusiedler See) and at Bruckneudorf (both Burgenland). Two places were considered to provide suited habitats for the viper: `Zitzmannsdorfer Wiesen` and the area of `Darscho - Zwikisch - Neudeck` (south of Apetlon). Unfortunately in both areas the main parts are strongly affected by human activities (drainage, early mowing, afforestation). No evidence for the presence of the Meadow Viper in the study area was obtained, and occurrence of this snake in Burgenland appears to be unlikely at present. Furthermore, occurrence and threat o{Lacerta vivipara pannonica LAC & KLUCH, 1968 are descri- bed. The distribution area of this lizard is larger than was assumed. Most important habitat of this species is the reed belt of the Neusiedler See. Additionally, records of the amphibians and other reptiles of the area under study are given.
Kammel, W. (2010) -
Bestandserhebungen zum Vorkommen der Smaragdeidechse in der Steiermark wurden im Zeitraum 1. Mai bis 1. September 2009 durchgeführt. Ein Nachweis der Art konnte an 150 Fundpunkten getätigt werden. Gesonderter Augenmerk wurde auf Erhaltungszustand, potentielle Gefährdungsursachen und nötige Schutzmaßnahmen gelegt. Der typische Lebensraum der Smaragdeidechse liegt auf sonnenbeschienenen Hängen, an denen Deckung bietende Vegetationsstrukturen (Waldränder, Hecken) mit sonnenexponierten Lebensräumen (Wiesen, Halbtrockenrasen, Ruderalfluren) zusammentreffen. Dabei spielt ihre hohe Affinität zu steinig-felsigen Strukturen und Totholz eine bedeutende Rolle. Derartige Strukturelemente kommen ihrer Vorliebe für Klettermöglichkeiten zu Gute. Das Auftreten in Gärten und Weinanbaugebieten demonstriert die Rolle der Art als Kulturfolger des Menschen. Vorkommen des als erloschen geltenden Teilareals im Großraum Graz konnten keine bestätigt werden, ebenso nicht im Großraum Eibiswald. Eine größere Verbreitung der Art ließ sich nur im Bereich der „Windischen Bühel“ (Südsteiermark) feststellen. Diese Hügellandschaft zwischen den Gemeinden Heimschuh, Großklein, Arnfels, Leutschach und Gamlitz weist noch einen hohen Anteil an extensiv bewirtschafteten Wiesenbereichen und eine mäßig hohe Dichte an Weinanbaugebieten auf. Der Verbreitungsschwerpunkt der Smaragdeidechse in der Südsteiermark liegt demnach im Raum Eichberg-Trautenburg und Oberfahrenbach. Dieses Vorkommen setzt sich südlich des Karnerberges in den Bereichen Fötschach, Pößnitz und Sernau fort. Im Bereich der Südsteirischen Weinstraße existieren Vorkommen nur mehr in kleinräumigen und hochgradig isolierten Vorkommen (Spielfeld, Ratsch an der Weinstraße, Glanz an der Weinstraße, Schloßberg). Bislang nicht wissenschaftlich dokumentiert konnten Vorkommen im Sausal nördlich der Sulm festgestellt werden. Hier existieren zwei Teilareale im Bereich Tillmitsch / Heimschuh (Silberberg – Kogelberg – Kittenberg) sowie in Einöd (Gem. Kitzeck i. S.), auch ein Einzelfund bei Altenberg (Kitzeck i. S.) konnte dokumentiert werden. Hochgradig isoliert und kleinräumig erwiesen sich sämtliche Vorkommen in der Oststeiermark. Eines der Vorkommen liegt im Natura 2000-Gebiet ESG 1 „Feistritzklamm / Herberstein“. Großflächigere Vorkommen (Durchmesser des potentiellen Vorkommens über 2 km) konnten nur im Raum Bad Gleichenberg (Gleichenberger Kogel – Bschaidkogel – Gossendorf - Trautmannsdorf) sowie in Kapfenstein – Gutenberg festgestellt werden. Weitere kleinräumige Isolate existieren noch am Stradner Kogel, am Zinsberg bei Fehring sowie in Aigen. Auch zu angrenzenden, ebenfalls hochgradig isolierten Vorkommen im Süd-Burgenland existiert keine direkte Verbindung der Lebensräume. Hauptgefährdungsursache in der Oststeiermark liegen in der Isolation der Gebiete und einer zunehmenden Verwaldung an aktuellen Standorten. Die Fundorte liegen zumeist auf südwest- bis südostexponierter Hanglagen. Eine Analyse der 150 Fundpunkte zeigt eine deutliche Präferenz der Smaragdeidechse zu Waldrandsituationen und dem Vorhandensein von Hecken und Gebüschgruppen, häufig angrenzend an Halbtrockenrasen und Ruderalflächen. Vor allem in der Südsteiermark spielen für den Weinanbau genutzte, sonnenexponierte Hänge eine bedeutsame Rolle. Eine hohe Bedeutung besitzen auch Strukturen, die für Verstecke und Sonnenplätze genutzt werden können, wie Feldgehölz, Felsen, Gemäuer, Totholz oder Holzstöße. Die potentielle Verbreitung der Art umfasst in der Oststeiermark ca. 6 km², in der Südsteiermark etwa 80 km². Allerdings können derzeit nur ca. 10 % dieser Flächen von Lacerta viridis als Lebensraum genutzt werden. Schutzmaßnahmen sollten vor allem eine extensive Wiesenbewirtschaftung, Aufbau stufiger Waldsäume und –binnensäume, Heckenanlagen, Reduktion des Herbizideinsatzes im Weinbau sowie eine gezielte Öffentlichkeitsarbeit umfassen.
Kammel, W. (2016) -
Since 2014 investigations on the distribution and the conservation status of the common wall lizard in Styria were conducted and intended for four vegetation periods. In 2015 investigations within the native range in Central Styria (middle Mur valley, Greater Graz and adjacent hills) revealed an extensive distribution of the Italian subspecies Podarcis m. maculiventris-East (Venetian clade, 48.8 % of records). Nevertheless, an occurrence of other introduced subspecies/genetic lineages can not be excluded. Contrary to the impression of a wide range of P. muralis in Styria indicated from distribution the species exists mainly at small-scale dimensioned locations which could be connected through batters or outskirts of forests. At the valley plains of the study area nearly all recorded common wall lizard sightings turned out to be of allochthonous origin. Compared to native populations I detected a remarkably higher population density within these introduced populations. Additionally, suboptimal and poorly structured habitats – atypical for Podarcis muralis muralis – are frequently occupied by introduced wall lizards. Within one native population (Graz- Gösting) introgression of introduced wall lizards could be detected based on genetical analysis.In this area native wall lizards find favourable habitats along adjacent hills and their stony slopes. The reduced accessibility of these habitats protects them from anthropogenic influences. Native wall lizard populations are linked to highly structured habitats (stony slopes, forest edges, a scarce herb layer, and deadwood). Due to their protection status additional surveys on introduced populations, the dispersion of neophyte groves (especially Ailanthus and Buddleja) at mining sites and human settlements as well as the influence of succession at important sites should be carried out.
Kammel, W. (2019) -
Kammel, W. (2021) -
Kammel, W. (2022) -
Observation of a remarkably colored female sand lizard, Lacerta agilis argus in Gleinalpe, Styria, Austria.
Kammerer, P. (1903) -
Kammerer, P. (1906) -
Kammerer, P. (1907) -
Kammerer, P. (1909) -
Kammerer, P. (1910) -
Kammerer, P. (1918) -
Kammerer, P. (1926) -
Kammerer, P. & Wettstein, O. (1926) -
Kan, N.G. & MartyrosyanI, I.A. & Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Aslanyan, A.V. & Grechko, V.V. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Ryskov, A.P. (2000) -
Two parthenogenic families of unisexual species of Caucasian rock lizards of genus Lacerta, L. armeniaca andL. unisexualis, were analyzed by DNA fingerprinting. Inheritance of M13 minisatellite and of (GACA) n , (GATA) n , and (TCC) n microsatellite loci in the first generation of the lizards was studied. M13, (GACA) n , and (TCC) n loci in the families ofL. armeniaca were strictly inherited, as well as M13 and (GACA) n loci in the families ofL. unisexualis: each DNA fragment in the fingerprint patterns of progeny could be detected in the maternal pattern. However, when a (TCC)50 microsatellite probe was applied in the study ofL. unisexualis families, specific DNA fragments with altered mobility were revealed in the progeny patterns, and the frequency of such events was rather high. It might be hypothesized that some of the (TCC) n loci inL. unisexualis genome are highly mutable. Hence, the family analysis allowed us to demonstrate experimentally the presence of genetically unstable loci in genomes of parthenogenic species of vertebrates. The nature and mechanism of the instability of these loci in parthenogenesis remain obscure.
Н.Г. Кан, И.А. Мартиросян, И.С. Даревский, Ф.Д. Даниелян, М.С. Аракелян, А.В. Асланян, В.В. Гречко, О.Н. Токарская, А.П. Рысков (2000) -
Проведен ДНК-фингерпринтный анализ партеногенетических семей двух однополых видов кавказских скальных ящериц рода Lacerta-L. armeniaca и L. unisexualis. Изучено наследование М13-минисателлитных и (GACA)n-, (GATA)n-, (ТСС)п-микросателлитных локусов в первом поколении партеногенетических ящериц исследуемых видов. Показано стабильное наследование М13-, (GАСА)n- и (ТСС)п-локусов в семьях L. armeniaca, а также М13- и (ОАТА)п-локусов в семьях L. unisexualis - любой фрагмент ДНК в ДНК-фингерпринтном паттерне потомка обнаруживается в материнском паттерне. В то же время, при использовании (ТСС)5о-микросателлитной пробы в семьях L. unisexualis у потомков обнаружены измененные по подвижности фрагменты ДНК, не присутствующие в материнском паттерне, причем частота появления таких фрагментов достаточно высока. Предполагается, что некоторые (ТСС)n-локусы в геноме L. unisexualis обладают повышенной мутационной способностью. Таким образом, в настоящей работе при семейном анализе впервые выявлены генетически нестабильные локусы у партеногенетических видов позвоночных. Природа и механизм нестабильности этих локусов при партеногенетическом способе размножения остаются неясными.
Kane, W.F. de V. (1902) -
Kaniza, M. (2019) -
The island syndrome is a phenomenon in which high density island populations exhibit reduced aggression, decreased sexual dimorphism and decreased energy allocation to reproduction. The reversed island syndrome was observed in a fluctuating density, blue coloured population of Podarcis siculus klemmeri, which had higher levels of aggressivity and sexual dimorphism. The aim of this seminar paper was to compare the behavioral traits of tolerance, aggressivity and retreat in island and mainland population of Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) by analyzing video-recordings of conducted behavioral trials in an open-type arena. The island population consisted of 5 pairs of males from the Pijavica island and the mainland population of 5 pairs of males from Kaštela. Males of high density population of the Pijavica island are normally coloured, while those of the land population have blue and yellow coloration of the ventral part of the body and head. During the analysis, all encounters were recorded and assigned to a predefined type and category of behavior. Males from the island population had 100 % tolerant encounters, while 3 pairs of land population showed encounters of aggressivity and retreat. Former characteristics of the island population correspond to the definition of island syndrome, which can be explained by reduced predation pressure and decreased interspecific competition.
Kantz, H. (2010) -
Kaplan, C. & Tok, C.V. (2021) -
In the study, the samples collected from Akşehir, Konya, Turkey and stored in the Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, ZDEU-COMU collection were used. Thirty lizards belonging to the family Lacertidae (Lacerta trilineata 5 juveniles, 5 ♂♂; Ophisops elegans 5 ♂♂, 5 ♀♀; Parvilacerta parva 5 ♂♂, 5 ♀♀) were evaluated. The age of the individuals was estimated after phalanges, femurs, and humeri samples were compared whether if there is any difference in terms of skeletochronological method. Among these species, the age is 2 years in 5 juvenile specimens of Lacerta trilineata and the ages of 5 males vary between 5 and 8. The age of male specimens of Parvilacerta parva vary between 4 and 6, and the age of females vary between 4 and 5. The age of male Ophisops elegans specimens vary between 4 and 6, and the age of females vary between 5 and 7. Similar ages were found in all three different bones that were sectioned and examined in all samples of all three species. Due to this similarity between the LAGs in the cross-sections of the bones, it is thought that phalanges could be used to determine ages without killing the specimens. In this way, the species that are already damaged due to human activities and changing environmental factors will be prevented from being adversely affected by these studies.
Kapli, P. & Botoni, D. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutas, Y. & Avci, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Fathinia, B. & Lymberakis, P. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Poulakakis, N. (2013) -
Kapli, P. & Botoni, D. & Ilgaz, Ç. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Avcı, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Fathinia, B. & Lymberakis, P. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Poulakakis, N. (2013) -
Apathya is a lacertid genus occurring mainly in south-east Turkey and its adjacent regions (part of Iran and Iraq). So far two morphological species have been attributed to the genus; A. cappadocica (with five subspecies, A. c.cappadocica, A. c.muhtari, A. c.schmidtlerorum, A. c. urmiana and A. c.wolteri) and A.yassujica. The first species occupies most of the genus’ distribution range, while A. yassujica is endemic of the Zagros Mountains. Here, we explored Apathya’s taxonomy and investigated the evolutionary history of the species by employing phylogenetic and phylogeographic approaches and using both mitochondrial (mtDNA) and nuclear markers. The phylogenetic relationships and the genetic distances retrieved, revealed that Apathya is a highly variable genus, which parallels its high morphological variation. Such levels of morphological and genetic differentiation often exceed those between species of other Lacertini genera that are already treated as full species, suggesting the necessity for a taxonomic revision of Apathya. The phylogeographical scenario emerging from the genetic data suggests that the present distribution of the genus was determined by a combination of dispersal and vicariance events between Anatolia and Southwest Asia dating back to the Miocene and continuing up to the Pleistocene. Key geological events for the understanding of the phylogeography of the genus are the movement of the Arabian plate that led to the configuration of Middle East (orogenesis of the mountain ranges of Turkey and Iran) and the formation of Anatolian Diagonal.
Kapli, P. & Kyriazi, P. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2008) -
The assessment of biodiversity by means that ignore the evolutionary relationships of the living forms can be quite misleading, resulting in the over-evaluation of some morphs and the ignorance of other evolutionary significant units. Molecular phylogeny, which is a potentially powerful tool for the conservation of biodiversity, provides essential evidence for setting conservation priorities on several taxa. Phylogenetic analyses can identify cryptic, genetically distinct lineages as well as non-distinctive lineages earlier perceived as separate taxa. The herpetofauna of the east Mediterranean region, which could be considered as one of nature’s most intensively active evolutionary laboratories, serves as an excellent example. Phylogenetic analyses on several lacertid taxa of this area have revealed cases of hidden diversity, paraphyly, new species and new endemics. In several cases the presence of cryptic species (Podarcis levendis, P. cretensis), species with very restricted distributions (P. gaigeae, P. milensis), paraphyletic (M. guttulta) or even polyphyletic species (O. elegans) were revealed. Such cases impose a considerable revision of the taxonomic views and conservation priorities. Based on these findings, many questions have been answered and certainly new ones have emerged, contributing not only to our knowledge on the east Mediterranean herpetofauna, but to broader issues of conservation biology, prioritizing conservation efforts and enhancing the need for a new multidisciplinary and innovative tool for screening and re-evaluating biodiversity.
Kapli, P. & Lymberakis, P. & Crochet, P.-A. & Geniez, P. & Brito, J.C. & Almutairi, M. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Schmitz, A. & Wilms, T. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Poulakakis, N. (2015) -
Aim We explored the phylogenetic relationships of species of Mesalina, using one nuclear and two mitochondrial loci. This genus of lacertid lizards is widely distributed in North Africa and the Middle East and our goal was to develop a scenario capable of explaining the current distribution and evolutionary patterns within the genus in the context of the wider historical biogeography of the region. Location North Africa and the Middle East. Methods The assembled dataset consisted of 193 Mesalina individuals, representing 12 species distributed across the geographical range of the genus. Bayesian and maximum likelihood methods were used to support phylogenetic inferences on two mitochondrial (cytochrome b and 16S ribosomal RNA) and one nuclear (beta-fibrinogen intron 7) markers. Palaeogeographical and palaeoclimatic data were used to support the inferred phylogeographical patterns. Results Mesalina lizards exhibit high genetic diversity and complex phylogenetic patterns, leading to an unsatisfactory systematic hypothesis of one paraphyletic and three polyphyletic traditional species. The estimated divergence times place the origin of the genus in the early Miocene (c. 22 Ma) and the divergence of most currently recognized species in the middle to late Miocene. The inferred ancestral distribution suggests that the genus and most of its species originated somewhere in Arabia or the Middle East, with the exception of the Mesalina olivieri complex, which may be of African origin. Main conclusions Phylogenetic reconstruction based on the three loci studied suggests a higher than expected cryptic diversity of Mesalina in North Africa and the Middle East. We suggest that the tectonic movements of the Arabian plate, coupled with the climatic changes occurring since the Miocene, may be responsible for the phylogeographical patterns of North African and Middle Eastern Mesalina.
Kapli, P. & Lymberakis, P. & Mantziou, G. & Poulakakis, N. & Mylonas, M. (2005) -
Kapli, P. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Mantziou, G. & Parmakelis, A. & Mylonas, M. (2008) -
Mesalina is a widespread lacertid genus occurring throughout the Saharo-Sindian region from North Africa to Pakistan. It has been through a series of taxonomic revisions, but the phylogenetic relationships among the species remain unclear. In this study we estimate the phylogeographic structure of M. guttulata across most of its distributional range and we evaluate the relationships between M. guttulata and the sympatric species M. brevirostris and M. bahaeldini using partial mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences (cyt b and 16S). M. guttulata and M. brevirostris represent species complexes, whereas M. bahaeldini considered before as M. guttulata is a recently described species with very restricted distribution. Here we present the first evidence that M. guttulata is a paraphyletic taxon with respect to M. bahaeldini, while M. brevirostris proves to be a polytypic species or even a species complex, confirming previous studies. Although mtDNA markers have several properties that make them suitable for phylogeographic studies, they are not free of difficulties. Phylogeographic inferences within and between closely related species can be mislead by introgression and retention of ancestral polymorphism (incomplete lineage sorting). However, the present distribution pattern, the estimated times of divergence and the significant variation in morphology within M. guttulata led us to accept that the paraphyletic pattern observed, is most likely due to inaccurate taxonomy. Our hypothesis is that what has hitherto been considered as intraspecific variation, actually reflects species-level variation. Furthermore, our biogeographic analyses and the estimated time of divergences suggest that the present distribution of M. guttulata was the result of several dispersal and vicariant events, which are associated with historical changes (climatic oscillations and paleogeographic barriers) of late Miocene and Pliocene period.
Kapli, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Mylonas, M. (2007) -
Lacertidae family is one of the most diverse and widespread families throughout Eurasia and Africa. Several studies so far have attempted to unravel the phylogeny of Lacertidae using DNA sequence data, while in some of them those datasets were also compared to alternative sources of evidence, primarily morphology. However, the intrafamily relationships remain unclear. During the last few years constructing DNA phylogenies has become highly popular, leading to the accumulation of a large number of available sequences in genetic databases. In an effort to explore the relationships within the family of Lacertidae, we retrieved from GenBank all published sequences (cmos, 165 rRNA, 12S rRNA, cyt b, NDl, ND2, and COI), forming a concatenated dataset, in which each genus is represented by one chimeric sequence. Phylogenetic inference analyses were conducted using Maximum Likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI).
Kapli, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Mylonas, M. (2011) -
the Lacertidae is one of the most diverse and widespread lizard families throughout Eurasia and Africa. Several studies so far have attempted to unravel the phylogeny of Lacertidae using morphological and mole- cular data. However, the intra-family relationships remain unclear. in an effort to explore the phylogenetic relationships within the family Lacertidae, a concatenated dataset of 5727 bp from six genes (two nuclear and four mitochondrial) and 40 genera was assembled based on GenBank database. Phylogenetic inference analy- ses were conducted using Maximum Parsimony (MP), Bayesian inference (Bi) and Maximum Likelihood (ML), revealing that even a combined dataset of both mitochondrial and nuclear genes is not able to resolve the phylogenetic relationships of the Lacertidae family under the tribe level.
Kapsalas, G. & Gavriilidi, I. & Adamopoulou, C. & Foufopoulos, J. & Pafilis, P. (2016) -
Temperature affects all aspects of reptilian biology. In order to colonize new habitats and support viable populations lizards have to successfully deal with their thermal environment. Podarcis siculus is a notorious example of a successful colonizer that has invaded numerous habitats outside its natural distribution range. Though certain features of its thermal biology have been assessed so far, the thermoregulatory abilities of the species remain poorly described. Here we investigated a recently discovered population in Greece and evaluated the effectiveness of thermoregulation measuring three main thermal parameters: set-point range, operative and field body temperatures. The Greek P. siculus appear to be accurate, precise and effective thermoregulators achieving E = 0.96. This effective thermoregulation may be used to explain, among other special characteristics, its spreading success.
Kapsalas, G. & Georgakopoulos, T. & Pafilis, P. (2018) -
Karabela, K. (2008) -
Mitochondrial DNA was used to analyze and study the population fidelity of Ophisops elegans across the different aspects of the landscape of Psara island. Genomic DNA was successfully extracted from tail pieces of the specimens using various protocols for DNA extraction from animal tissue. The product was amplified with PCR method using the primers ASNr-ND2f. Only seven samples were successfully amplified obtaining additional non specific products, and they were sequenced. The sequence reactions were not successful for undetermined reasons at this point.
Karakasi, D. & Ilgaz, Ç. & Kumlutas, Y. & Candan, K. & Güçlü, Ö. & Kankılıç, T. & Beser, N. & Sindaco, R. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2021) -
Genetic diversity is not always congruent with phenotypic heterogeneity, resulting in cryptic species complexes which cause a great struggle for scientists trying to define ‘species’ and describe relationships among taxa. Anatololacerta is a lizard genus distributed in southern and western Anatolia and some neighboring Aegean islands. Three morphospecies were recognized in Anatololacerta but a recent molecular study revealed the presence of cryptic diversity within the genus which led to the raise of a subspecies to species level. Currently the genus includes the species A. anatolica, A. danfordi, A. budaki and A. pelasgiana. Using a comprehensive sampling concerning both the number of specimens (218 specimens) and the genetic markers (3 nuclear and 3 mitochondrial), we performed phylogenetic analyses including tree reconstruction, species delimitation and divergence times estimation. The results revealed the occurrence of one more cryptic lineage which should be regarded as a separate species for which the name A. ibrahimi stat. nov. has priority. The existence of five well differentiated species with parapatric distributions in Anatololacerta is strongly supported. There is also evidence of recent and rapid radiation of the genus which probably causes phylogenetic relationships between these species to remain largely unresolved. At last, we proceeded to some nomenclatorial changes: The current name A. budaki was synonymized with A. pelasgiana because specimens of the type-locality of A. budaki are assigned genetically to A. pelasgiana. The genetic lineage including specimens currently assigned to A. budaki was named A. finikensis stat. nov., raising the subspecies A. b. finikensis to species level.
Karakasiliotis, K. (2012) -
Morphology is an important factor in locomotion. It may guide the control strategies that an animal or a robot uses for efficient locomotion. Based on our previous work for the modeling of the long-tailed lizard, in this paper we explore the effect of tail loss, a morphological feature that is particularly distinctive in this species. The main aim is to postulate and possibly predict the changes in the locomotor strategies and performance of an amputated long-tailed lizard. For our study we use optimization algorithms and we mainly focus on the results from the standard PSO (particle swarm optimization). Overall the effect of tail loss does not alter much the behavior of the model, both in terms of postural kinematics and speed performance. However some results show particular interest: first the amputated model uses half the power for achieving the same performance as the intact one, second the amputated model uses wider foot placement for the hind limbs and significantly smaller spinal oscillatory amplitudes. These results may predict that an amputated animal will experience stability problems at higher frequencies.
Karakasiliotis, K. & D`Aout, K. & Aerts, P. & Ijspeert, A.J. (2012) -
Morphology is an important factor in locomotion. It may guide the control strategies that an animal or a robot uses for efficient locomotion. In this paper we try to understand the locomotion strategies of a lizard with a distinctive feature, the long-tailed lizard Takydromus sexlineatus. We recorded the performance of real animals in terms of forward speed and then developed a simulation model respecting the morphometric characteristics of long-tailed lizards. We then run systematic tests altering several control parameters of the model. The simulation experiments suggested possible control strategies for effective locomotion given this type of morphology. The experiments were not constrained or guided by any prior knowledge on specific animal angular kinematics. Therefore, the good match between the suggested kinematics for optimal speed and the kinematics of the real animal suggests that our framework is capable of exploring in the future the effects of morphosis on the locomotion strategies of animals, e.g. to perform the same study with shorter or no tail.
Karaman, S. (1921) -
Karaman, S. (1922) -
Karaman, S. (1939) -
Karaman, S. (1948) -
Karameta, E. & Pafilis, P. (2017) -
Karamiani, R. & Dabid, S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2015) -
Sexual size dimorphism in the Iranian endemic Yassujian lizard, Apathya yassujica (Nilson et al., 2003), was previously undocumented. In this study 23 male and 19 female adult specimens of A. yassujica were collected from Kohguiluyeh va Boyer Ahmad and Fars Provinces in southwestern regions of the Iranian Plateau. Univariate and multivariate analyses performed on morphometric data showed that males are larger than females, and except for number of scales from collar to anal plate and that all other sexual differences were male-biased. We also further the previous range of A. yassujica with records from different regions of Fars province, southwestern Iran
Karapetyan, A.F. (2004) -
Карапетян, А.Ф. (2004) -
Karapetyan, A.F. & Dzhivanyan, K.A. (2009) -
In the article the results of experiments are presented, which testify to increase in quantity of nuclear DNA in hepatocytes of the liver of Lacerta agilis during the first month after partial hepatectomy. The given phenomenon is estimated as activation cogitation of hepatocytes proliferation. A conclusion is made that hepatocytes polyploidization of nucleus does not play an essential role in maintenance of regenerative growth of a liver at the given group of animals.
Карапетян, А.Ф. and Дживанян, К.А. (2009) -
Приводятся результаты экспериментов, которые свидетельствуют об увеличении количества ядерной ДНК в гепатоцитах печени прыткой ящерицы Lacerta agilis в течение первого месяца после частичной гепатэктомии. Это явление оценивается как отражение активации пролиферации гепатоцитов. Делается вывод о том, что полиплоидизация ядер гепатоцитов не играет существенной роли в обеспечении восстановительного роста печени у данной группы животных. Բերվում են փորձարարական տվյալներ, որոնք վկայում են մասնակի հեպատէկտոմիայից հետո առաջին ամսվա ընթացքում Lacerta agilis ճարպիկ մողեսի լյարդի հեպատոցիտների կորիզային ԴՆԹ-ի քանակության մեծացման մասին: Այդ երևույթը գնահատվում է որպես բջիջների բազմացման պրոցեսների ակտիվացման արտացոլում: Եզրակացվում է, որ հեպատոցիտների կորիզների պոլիպլոիդացումն էական դեր չի կատարում այդ կենդանիների լյարդի վերականգնողական աճի ապահովման մեջ:
Karapetyan, A.F. & Jivanyan, K.A. (2009) -
Karatas, A. & Cicek, K. (2023) -
KARCH (2003) -
Karis, M. & Göcmen, B. (2014) -
A new locality record for the Hatay Lizard Phoenicolacerta laevis from Özdere (Menderes, İzmir) is presented based on our fieldwork in coastal Aegean Sea Region in July 2013. Our record is north westernmost locality and represents a considerable range extension for both species and genus, around 165 km air distances to the northwest from nearest known locality (Marmaris, Muğla).
Karmishev, Y. & Yarigin, O. (2013) -
This work presents data on reproductive features of Ukrainian fauna Lacertidae lizards in laboratory conditions and comparative data on lizards clutches in wild nature. Terms of egg incubation of these lizards in the laboratory in a stable, relatively low temperatures can significantly exceed those in nature, which allows to obtain embryonic material with a smooth, long process of development. The most prolific representatives of different major types - green lizard (Lacerta viridis) and nimble (Lacerta agilis). Females sand lizard can be aggressive towards other females clutches, which is manifested in the destruction of nests.
Karthgik, P. & Nagarajan, R. & Kalimanio, A. (2018) -
Karthik, P. & Kalaimani, A. & Nagarajan, R. (2018) -
The report contributes to the community structure of the amphibians and reptiles and provides prelimi- nary information on species diversity and their microhabitat association in Gingee hills. Gingee hills are located in Southern Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu and lying between 12°14 ́ N, 79°23 ́E. The forest habi- tats are composed of mixed dry deciduous forest and thorn scrub forest. A detailed herpetofauna survey was conducted from December 2015 to March 2016. Data collection were carried out by using Time Constrained Visual Encounter Survey method. Of 120 man hours harbors 56 species of herpetofauna, besides 15 species of amphibians belonging to 10 genera and 41 species of reptiles belonging to 30 gene- ra were recorded, of which 21 species were ophidians (55%) and 20 species of lizards (45%). The micro- climatic analysis of amphibian the temperature varied with 29.4oC ± 3.57°C and 30.8oC ± 2.73°C for reptiles. The amphibian humidity varied with 66.1±14.01% and 61.1 ± 10.21% for reptiles. The niche overlap index shows that many amphibian and reptiles overlapping between each other with maximum value of 0.98. This report indicated that the area is notably large in size of the richness of amphibians and reptiles.
Karyeva, O. & Shammakov, S. & Iazgulyev, A. & Atamuradov, K.I. (1999) -
Kasapidis, P. & Adamopoulou, C. & Maragou, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2001) -
Kasapidis, P. & Provatidou, S. & Maragou, P. & Valakos, E.D. (1996) -
Fourteen species of reptiles were found on Lesbos Island. The species Ablepharus kitaibelii and Malpolon monspessulanus are recorded for the first time from the island. The localities and some morphometric characters of the caught specimens are noted. Finally, we attempt to combine our data and the bibliographical ones in a biogeographical approach to the fauna of the islands of the northeastern Aegean Archipelago.
Kashchenko, N.T. (1899) -
Kashchenko, N.T. (1909) -
Kaska, Y. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Avci, A. & Üzüm, N. & Yeniyurt, C. & Akarsu, F. (2009) -
Kaska, Y. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Avci, A. & Üzüm, N. & Yeniyurt, C. & Akarsu, F. & Sindaco, R. (2009) -
Kaska, Y. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Kaya, U. & Avci, A. & Üzüm, N. & Yeniyurt, C. & Akarsu, F. (2009) -
Kasparek, M. (1990) -
3 species of amphibians and 21 species of reptiles have been found in the basin of Köycegiz in southwest Anatolia. The species are listed with short descriptions of their occurrence. The rich herpetofauna emphasizes the need for a strict protection of the whole basin. The need for the conservation of regional herpetofaunas in Turkey is discussed.
Kästle, W. (1972) -
Kästle, W. (1974) -
Katalin, B. (2013) -
Sexual selection favors traits that make individuals able to increase their reproductive success. Reproducing individuals can signal their mate quality through various visual, accoustic and chemical traits or behavioural displays. Honesty of those signals arises from the cost linked to development or maintainence, thus only individuals of better quality are able to bear intensive signals. With estimating honest signals, females are able to choose mating partners of better quality, and adjust their reproductive investment according to their choice of preference. Colour signals of different types can raise different costs, thus they can signal different aspects of individual quality. In contrast of pigment based colours, structural colours do not need pigment molecules, therefore they have previously been decided to be not costly. All reptile species examined so far are capable of UV perception, and sexual dichromaitsm in the UV range is present in many taxa. In my studies, I used a manipulative approach to investigate the nuptial UV colouration of male European green lizards during intra- and intersexual selection and maternal investment. To investigate the costs of developing the UV singal, I tested the effect of two fundamental environmental factors, food and temperature, on the sexual signal. My results demonstrate that the UV colouration of males is preferred during female mate choice and it predicted the outcome of male contast when females and males could not make their decisions based on other morphological differences. Intensity of UV colouration was affected by environmental temperature, independently of food. Maternal investment was determined by the males’ UV colouration, because males differed solely in this morphological character, and cluchtes sired by preferred males included heavier eggs. Clutch size was affected by the mean male body size. This is the first study to find evidence for the role of UV colouration in mate choice in a reptile, using a manipulative approach in which the role of the colouration is tested independently of other morphological traits. Moreover, I have found an example that a UV trait can be important is both mate choice and male contast, suggesting that its evolution might be different of Fisherian runaway selection, and can be an honest signal. This concept is futher strengthened by the result that the development of the UV signal depends on the availability of high temperature and thus high physiological activity in this ectoterm vertebrate. This can be of high cost in a species which reaches high body temperature by behavioural thermoregulation. UV colouration also affected maternal investment, as females invested differently into clutches based on the direct preference showed for the UV colouration manipulated within the natural range. Taken together, my results suggest that structural colour signals can be as costly as pigment based colours, thus, they can be honest signals affecting the patterns of maternal investment.
Kattinger, E. (1941) -
Kattinger, E. (1942) -
Kattinger, E. (1972) -
Kattke, P. (2014) -
Kattouw, S.H. (1956) -
Katurić, M. (1898) -
Kauffeld, C.F. (1931) -
Kaufmann, P. (2016) -
Within the city of Salzburg there are currently reproductive populations of twelve amphibian- and seven reptile species. Furthermore, five different kinds of North American turtles were observed. Besides the widespread and possibly introduced marsh frog (Pelophylax ridibundus) there also exists a population of North Italian wall lizards (Podarcis muralis maculiventris). Because of the intense urbanisation there is also a variety of threats to the native herpetofauna, and many species have become rare or disappeared completely. Besides direct habitat loss the urban traffic is one of the biggest problems, leading to substantial losses and isolated habitats. This is also reflected at the two amphibian migration sites “Sinnhubstraße” and “Kreuzbergpromenade”, which are maintained by volunteers. However, there are still several areas within the city of Salzburg with a relatively high herpetological biodiversity. Urban ponds, the city hills and the remnants of the alluvial forests as well as private gardens and ponds play an important role as habitats for amphibians and reptiles. The preservation of the urban herpetofauna and its habitats is necessary not only from a conservational perspective, but also leads to a better quality of life for humans in Salzburg.
Kaunisto, S. & Raunismaa, I. & Kortet, R. & Ylönen, H. (2016) -
Predation can regulate populations and strongly affect invasion success of novel prey. The deer ked (Lipoptena cervi; Linnaeus 1758) is an invasive ectoparasite of cervids that spends a long period of its life cycle outside the host. Prior to this study, virtually nothing was known about natural summer time predation on the deer ked. We aimed to evaluate the magnitude of summer time predation on L. cervi pupae in different habitats and to identify potential predators. We conducted a set of field experiments, where we exposed L. cervi pupae to various ground-dwelling vertebrate and invertebrate predators. The loss of pupae was monitored for different predator guilds. Three habitats of the moose, the main host species, were studied: (1) moist heath forest; (2) dry, logged heath forest; and (3) moist meadow. The results indicate notable summer time predation on L. cervi pupae, and the pupal predation varied within and between habitats, being lowest in the meadow habitat. We found a positive correlation between pupal loss and abundance of the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), harvestmen (Opiliones), ground spiders (Gnaphosidae) and Formicinae-ants. We conclude that summer time predation during the pupal phase can have a notable local importance for the L. cervi abundance.
Kawamoto, A. (2021) -
Kawamoto, A. & Galliard, J.-F. le & Badiane, A. (2021) -
According to animal signalling theory, social costs incurred by aggressive conspecifics are one mechanism maintaining signal honesty. Although our understanding of signal evolution has much improved for pigment-based colours, the mechanisms maintaining the honesty of structural colour signals, such as ultraviolet (UV), remain elusive. Here, we used the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) to test whether the honesty of UV-reflecting signals displayed on male throats is under social control. To do so, we staged agonistic interactions between non-manipulated focal males and opponents of either larger or smaller body size. We manipulated the UV component of the male throat colour patch to create small cheaters with UV-enhanced throats, large cheaters with UV-reduced throats, and their respective controls. In support of a conventional signal hypothesis, focal males were aggressive towards large cheaters and became submissive when these large cheaters retaliated, and were less submissive against small cheaters. However, that focal males were not more aggressive towards small cheaters contradicts our initial predictions. We confirm that male UV reflectance and bite force were good predictors of contest outcomes in control conditions. Overall, we provide partial evidence suggesting that social costs enforce UV signal honesty in common lizards.
Kawauchi, N. & Nakamura, Y. & Watanabe, T. (2018) -
河内 紀浩, 中村 泰之, 渡邉 環樹 (2018) -
沖縄県の宮古諸島に導入されたニホンイタチ Mustela itatsi の糞より,同諸島固有の絶滅危惧種ミヤコカナヘ ビ Takydromus toyamai の骨及び体の一部を検出した.こ の結果は,同地域に生息する希少な固有種が国内外来種 であるニホンイタチに捕食されていることを直接的に示 す初めての証拠であり,ミヤコカナヘビの深刻な個体数 減少の原因についての議論に一石を投じるものである
Kaya, N. & Özuluğ, O. (2017) -
Amphibia and Reptilia collections at the Zoological Museum, University of Istanbul (ZMUI) were studied and revised. The samples were collected from 1921 until today. The localities of most species are found in the different regions of Turkey. The collection have 75 species of which 21 species are amphibians and 54 species are reptiles. With this study a zoological collection belong to ZMUI was given for the first time.
İstanbul Üniversitesi Zooloji Müzesi (ZMUI) Amphibia ve Reptilia koleksiyonu çalışıldı ve revize edildi. Örnekler 1921 yılından günümüze kadar toplanmıştır. Çoğu türün lokalitesi Türkiye’nin farklı bölgelerindendir. Koleksiyonda 75 tür bulunmakta olup bunların 21 türü amfibi ve 54 türü sürüngenlerdendir. Bu çalışma ile ilk defa ZMUI’a ait bir zoolojik koleksiyon verilmiştir.
Kaya, N. & Özulug, O. & Tosunoglu, M. & Eldem, V. (2023) -
The diverse climate types and geographical structures across Anatolia result in a high level of species diversity. Among these, the lizard species Lacerta diplochondrodes exhibits several distinct populations, with some of them recognized as subspecies. The primary objective of our study was to investigate whether populations from Thrace and the Western Black Sea region of Türkiye differ from other documented populations. For this purpose, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of genetic and morphometric parameters. For the genetic analysis, we utilized the COI and cyt-b gene regions as molecular markers. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Canonical Discriminant Analysis (CDA) were used for the morphometric analyses to differentiate populations. Our findings indicate that a population found in the Bolu region in Western Black Sea region of Turkey differs from the other populations both in morphometric and genetic traits. The L. d. diplochondrodes and L. d. cariensis populations represent sister lineages, and they are both genetically and morphologically only weakly differentiated. These two lineages are therefore referred to as L. d. diplochondrodes. Overall, four different lineages can be distinguished in Türkiye, out of which the lineage of the Western Black Sea region (Bolu lineage) is described for the first time.
Kazemi, S.M. & Hosseinzadeh, M.S. (2020) -
Aims The Zagros Mountains are a part of the 20th global hotspot, the Irano-Anatolian biodiversity hotspot. In this study, we aim to develop a comprehensive checklist of endemic herpetofauna species in the Zagros Mountains as one of the biodiversity hotspot regions, to provide more information about this important area and the necessity of conservation programs to protect it. Materials & Methods The Zagros Mountains, with an area of about 533,543km2, ranges from Turkey and Iraq to western and southwestern Iran along the eastern edge of the Persian Gulf. A list of endemic species has been collected from the literature review. Findings This region contains 3 species and 7 subspecies of endemic amphibians belonging to three genera and two families, the Salamandridae (8) and the Bufonidae (2). Neurergus and Calliopersa are endemic to this hotspot. There are 40 species and 6 subspecies of endemic reptiles belonging to 24 genera and 10 families. The families with the greatest number of endemic species are the Gekkonidae, Phyllodactylidae, and Colubridae. Three genera, Asaccus, Mediodactylus, and Eirenis, dominate the region, with 32 endemic taxa. There are also two endemic genera, Parsigecko and Lakigecko. Conclusion Many amphibians in the Zagros Mountains, especially all the species of the genus Neurergus, are categorized in IUCN (the International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List and CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). The habitats of the Zagros Mountains herpetofauna, especially those of endangered and endemic species, should be protected and managed to maintain or restore populations of the declining species.
Kazes, K. & Rotem, G. & Ziv, Y. (2020) -
Agriculture poses a threat upon wildlife worldwide and particularly to reptiles. However, the effects of many crop types on reptile diversity remain unknown. In this field study, we examined the local effects of two understudied common crop types in Mediterranean regions, intensively cultivated vineyards and intensified-traditional olive plantations, on reptile diversity patterns. We compared measurements of diversity among an array of study plots representing each crop as well as plots in adjacent patches of natural habitat. We developed a new index, the Average Specialization Index, in order to compare the degree of habitat-specialization of the species in the different habitats. Among the habitat types examined, the natural patches were the most structurally heterogeneous and contained the greatest species richness and diversity. In contrast, the intensive vineyards were structurally homogeneous and were uninhabitable areas for reptiles. The more-traditionally cultivated olive plantations were intermediately heterogeneous and provided a unique habitat occupied by a community with a high proportion of reptile species considered to be habitat specialists. Despite showing high abundance and eveness, the reptile community within the olive plantations still contained a lower species richness and diversity compared to natural patches. In light of our results, we recommend implementing a more wildlife-friendly management strategy in landscapes converted to agricultural cultivation.
Kazila, E. & Pafilis, P. (2013) -
Tail autotomy is one of the main antipredator strategies in lizards. The mechanical pressure exerted by the predator induces an immediate break of the tail. Lizard escapes while the autotomized part thrashes vigorously distracting the predator. Caudal regeneration occurs rapidly in most lizard families and compensate for the disadvantages that tail loss comes with. Among the most important problems is the impaired locomotion. Tail serves as an auxiliary movement instrument and thus caudal shedding alters numerous locomotive features such as balance, speed, climbing ability etc. The quicker lizards will regenerate their tail, the faster their motion abilities will be restored. The duration of tail regeneration varies among lizard families and it seems to depend on phylogeny. In this study we aimed to clarify the impact of life style on caudal regeneration. We predicted that lizards that have a more intense movement pattern (e.g. run more and faster) would regenerate quicker their lost tail. In order to minimize the phylogenetic effect, we worked with three closely related species of the genus Podarcis that have different life styles, affecting the movement pattern: P. tauricus leaves in open areas and is a cursorial species, P. peloponnesiacus prefers low rocks next to flat terrains, running and climbing evenly good and P. muralis is found on rocks and walls and is an excellent climber. To simulate predation, we grasped with a pair of callipers the tail at a distance of 30 mm from the cloaca. Lizards were previously placed in a terrarium covered with rough cork mat, allowing them to maintain good traction. If autotomy occurred, lizards were housed in individual terraria at 30 C and were fed on mealworms (Tenebrio molitor). Tail length was recorded weekly to the nearest second decimal, using a ruler. Measurements began the first week after autotomy and were taken for 23 weeks. The weight and the length of each autotomized tail were measured. Tail regeneration was faster in the case of P. tauricus. P. peloponnesiacus grew its caudal tissues in a slower but yet comparable way whereas P. muralis showed the slowest regeneration rate and did not acquire the full length of the original tail. We believe that the underlying reason for these results is the different use of the tail in each species. P. tauricus is a swift runner and uses its tail as a counterbalance. The other two species are more climbing-oriented and tail is less important. It seems that according to their particular life-style, lizards regenerate their tails in a different rate.
Keetman, M. & De Vries, M. (1994) -
Kehlmaier, C. & Zinenko, O. & Fritz, U. (2019) -
It has been proposed that Lacerta viridis magnifica Sobolevssky, 1930 represents an extinct species or subspecies of green lizard endemic to the southern Crimea. Using NGS protocols optimized for heavily degraded DNA, we sequenced the complete mi- togenome of one of the originally formalin-preserved specimens collected in the late 19th century. A comparison with sequence data of other green lizards revealed that L. v. magnifica is a junior synonym of the northern subspecies of the western green lizard (L. b. bilineata Daudin, 1802), which occurs at least 1,500 km away, beyond the distribution ranges of other green lizards. In medieval times, a Genoese colony existed in the Crimean region where the extinct green lizards occurred. Until the early 20th century, close ties to Italy persisted, and locals of Genoese descent sent their children for education to Italy, where L. b. bilineata occurs. This suggests that the extinct Crimean green lizards have been introduced accidentally or intentionally from Italy. Our study exemplifies the value of historical formalin-preserved museum specimens for clarifying the status of questionable rare or extinct taxa.
Keller, E. (1958) -
Keller, M. & Vassilakaki, M. (2002) -
Keller, M. & Vassilikakis, M. & Nettmann, H.K. (2001) -
Kenigfest, N. & Martinez-Marcos, A. & Belkhova, M. & Font, C. & Lanuza, E. & Desfilis, E. & Martinez-Garcia, F. (1997) -
The aim of this work is to delineate the retinorecipient cell groups of the dorsal thalamus of lizards and to study some of the differential connections in order to help to understand the evolution of the visual system in tetrapods. Tract-tracing and immunohistochemical techniques were applied to the retinorecipient dorsal thalamus of the lizard Podarcis hispanica. The retina of Podarcis projects to four areas of the dorsal thalamus: nucleus ovalis (Ov), intergeniculate leaflet (IGL), dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (GLD) and dorsolateral anterior nucleus (DLA). Nucleus ovalis shows a clear cell plate/neuropile organization and projects to the ventral thalamus. Thus, it seems to belong to the ventral rather than to the dorsal thalamus. The IGL contains large cells reactive for GABA and/or NPY immunohistochemistry. It is interconnected with the supra/retrochiasmatic hypothalamus and projects to the opposite thalamus and to the ipsilateral tectum. The caudal DLA, which lacks both GABA- and NPY-like immunoreactive cells is reached by a few thin retinal fibers, although distal dendrites of DLA cells enter the GLD, suggesting an important retinal input. The DLA projects to the medial and dorsal telencephalic cortices. The GLD is the main retinorecipient thalamic structure that projects to the telencephalon. It shows a crude laminar organization in which cell plate neurons project to the ipsilateral pallial thickening, but it does not receive a descending projection from the visual telencephalon and thus differs from the GLD of other amniotic vertebrates. In the context of present knowledge, these results suggest that an IGL homologue is present in all tetrapods studied, whereas Ov seems to be restricted to diapsid vertebrates. Moreover, our data suggest that a unimodal visual projection to the telencephalon (arising from the GLD) first appeared in reptiles by segregation from a limbic (multimodal) thalamo-telencephalic pathway.
Kennedy, A.M. & Marais, J. & Bauer , A.M. & Lewis, P.J. & Thies, M.L. (2012) -
Ngamiland is one of the most remote regions in Botswana, and its herpetofauna is largely under-surveyed. This study documents the herpetofauna of the Koanaka Hills (KH) in Ngamiland in 2009 following extensive fire destruction and compares it to the pre-fire herpetofauna collected in 2008. We also provide new records for the region for three amphibian and six reptile species, and document vouchers for two taxa that were sighted but not collected in 2008. During 2009, 14 reptile and three amphibian species were collected, bringing the total number of confirmed herpetofaunal taxa near the KH to three amphibian and 19 reptile species. For seven species this is the first published occurrence in quarter degree square 2021 Aa. Analyses measuring changes in the KH herpetofauna following the fire are inconclusive due to differences in collection effort and weather conditions. However, these data suggest that fire impact was minimal.
Kennedy, D.T. & Shimono. T. & Kitai, S.T. (1970) -
Kerr, R. (1986) -
Kéry, M. & Dorazio, R.M. & Soldaat, L. & Strien, A. van & Zuiderwijk, A. & Royle, J.A. (2009) -
1. Trends of animal populations are of great interest in ecology but cannot be directly observed owing to imperfect detection. Binomial mixture models use replicated counts to estimate abundance, corrected for detection, in demographically closed populations. Here, we extend these models to open populations and illustrate them using sand lizard Lacerta agilis counts from the national Dutch reptile monitoring scheme. 2. Our model requires replicated counts from multiple sites in each of several periods, within which population closure is assumed. Counts are described by a hierarchical generalized linear model, where the state model deals with spatio-temporal patterns in true abundance and the observation model with imperfect counts, given that true state. We used WinBUGS to fit the model to lizard counts from 208 transects with 1–10 (mean 3) replicate surveys during each spring 1994–2005. 3. Our state model for abundance contained two independent log-linear Poisson regressions on year for coastal and inland sites, and random site effects to account for unexplained heterogeneity. The observation model for detection of an individual lizard contained effects of region, survey date, temperature, observer experience and random survey effects. 4. Lizard populations increased in both regions but more steeply on the coast. Detectability increased over the first few years of the study, was greater on the coast and for the most experienced observers, and highest around 1 June. Interestingly, the population increase inland was not detectable when the observed counts were analysed without account of detectability. The proportional increase between 1994 and 2005 in total lizard abundance across all sites was estimated at 86% (95% CRI 35–151). 5.Synthesis and applications. Open-population binomial mixture models are attractive for studying true population dynamics while explicitly accounting for the observation process, i.e. imperfect detection. We emphasize the important conceptual benefit provided by temporal replicate observations in terms of the interpretability of animal counts.
Kessler, K. (1878) -
Kessler, K.F. (1878) -
Kessler, K.F. in Bekatova, A. (1878) -
Kete, R. & Yilmaz, I. & Karakulak, S. & Yildirim, A. (2005) -
Geographic position and different climate features of our country is the most important reason of the richness and variety of the fauna of Turkey. Significant zoogeographic importance of this region has been stressed by recent studies on Turkey’s herpetofauna. In this study, 4 species anurans, 1 species turtle, 1species tortoise, 10 species lizards, 10 species snakes, have been collected from this region and there specimens were studied morphologically. Ecological and biological features of these species have been reported. In this research, the vicinity of Lake Bafa was studied with it’s herpetofauna firstly and it’s different features. As a result of this research, it was determined the area is one of the important watery areas of our country for it’s touristic construction, ancient town features, and biologic features such as having rich fauna and flora. The vicinity of Lake Bafa is one of the rare ecosystems, which is open to danger, having importance scientificly and education aly, and it should be presented with it’s biological diversity. While these were shown in the research, it’s diversity, field construction, ancient features, appropriate climate and touristic importance was stated, and the importance of protection of this area was tried to explain
Kettler, J. & Nettmann, H. & Rykena, S. (2016) -
Es wird über eine neu entdeckte, reproduzierende Population allochthoner Mauereidechsen (Podarcis muralis) in Brinkum, an der Südgrenze des Landes Bremen berichtet. Die Tiere leben an einer Straßenbrücke an einem Gewerbegebiet, die Herkunft aus Norditalien und die Verschleppung mit Paletten auf Lastwagen ist plausibel belegt. Weitere Funde in Norddeutschland sind zu erwarten, wenn man nicht nach geeigneten Habitaten, sondern nach geeigneten Speditionen sucht.
Kéver, L. & Olivier, D. & Maghoub, A. & Evans, S.E. & Vickaryous, M.K. & Moazen, M. & Herrel, A. (2022) -
Many species of lizards are partially enveloped by a dermal armour made of ossified units called osteoderms. Lizard osteoderms demonstrate considerable species-specific variation in morphology and histology. Although a physical/protective role (against predators, prey, conspecifics and impact loading during falls) is frequently advanced, empirical data on the biomechanics of lizard osteoderms are scarce, limiting our understanding of form–function relationships. Here, we report deformation recorded at the surface of temporal osteoderms during controlled external loading of preserved specimens of 11 lizard species (Tiliqua rugosa, Tiliqua scincoides, Corucia zebrata, Pseudopus apodus, Timon lepidus, Matobosaurus validus, Broadleysaurus major, Tribolonotus gracilis, Tribolonotus novaeguineae, Heloderma horridum and Heloderma suspectum). Based on the strain recorded in situ and from isolated osteoderms, the skin of the species investigated can be ranked along a marked stiffness gradient that mostly reflects the features of the osteoderms. Some species such as T. rugosa and the two Heloderma species had very stiff osteoderms and skin while others such as T. lepidus and P. apodus were at the other end of the spectrum. Histological sections of the osteoderms suggest that fused (versus compound) osteoderms with a thick layer of capping tissue are found in species with a stiff skin. In most cases, loading neighbouring osteoderms induced a large strain in the instrumented osteoderm, attesting that, in most species, lizard osteoderms are tightly interconnected. These data empirically confirm that the morphological diversity observed in lizard osteoderms is matched by variability in biomechanical properties.
Keymar, P.F. (1985) -
Keymar, P.F. (1986) -
Keymar, P.F. (1988) -
A collecting trip to Zakynthos (Ionian Islands) has produced first evidence of Testudo h. hermanni and Elaphe qu. quatuorlineata. The occurence of Emys orbicularis, Hemidactylus t. turcicus and Coluber gemonensis has been confirmed. Algyroides nigropunctatus could not be found on the island, an old record must therefore be doubted. As to the small island Marathonisi, situated in the Bay of Lagana, Algyroides moreoticus and Tarentola mauritanica are recorded for the first time. The rookeries and nesting habits of the Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta e. caretta) are briefly described.
Keymar, P.F. & Dauth, J. (1981) -
Kgosiesele, E. (2010) -
Ecological factors determining the geographic distribution of Timon lepida are poorly known. This work modelled the potential geographic distribution of Timon lepida at two spatial scales: 1. Landscape (Andalucía) 2. Regional (Spain) and analyzed the degree to which this distribution is associated with different predictor variables (e.g. temperature, solar radiation, topography, vegetation etc). The objectives of this study are to: (1) determine the most important predictor variables influencing the spatial distribution of Timon lepida; (2) generate potential geographic distribution maps for this species and (3) compare the predictive powers of environmental variables and hyper temporal NDVI to predict this distribution. Maxent, a presence-only distribution modelling technique was used to model predicted ranges for Timon lepida, using a large dataset of 10*10 km UTM presence only records collected between 1998-2002 period over Europe and a set of biophysical variable of 1*1 km resolution. To test the average behavior of the algorithm, 10 iterative models were produced by dividing all the presence records into 70% for training and 30% for testing. Three sets of model scenarios were generated: (i) models including environmental variables, (ii) models including environmental variables and vegetation and (iii) models including vegetation indices. Model accuracy was measured with binomial tests of omission rates and the area under the curve (AUC). All models were significantly better than random by the binomial test and AUC measure. The AUC score for models built using environmental variables was always higher indicating better discrimination of suitable and unsuitable areas for the species. For the two spatial scales, environmental variables models had a superior predictive ability than vegetation models. These findings did not support our hypothesis. The results indicate that at a landscape level, topographic variables (aspect and slope) are the most important whereas at a regional scale, climatic variables (temperature seasonality, solar radiation, altitude) and hyper temporal NDVI appear to have a significant effect on this distribution pattern. The results of the present study can be an important contribution to a better understanding of the ecological requirements of the species. The conclusions would be more precise if the adequate precise high resolution environmental data is included in the future application and reliable datasets of current conditions are identified to improve results.
Khabibullin, V.F. (2000) -
Khadem, M. & Jesus, J. & Brehm, A. (1997) -
Khalaf, K.T. (1959) -
Khalaf, K.T. (1960) -
Khalil, M.W. (2008) -
Khan, M.A. & Jablonski, D. & Nadeem, M.S. & Masroor, R. & Kehlmaier, C. & Spitzweg, C. & Fritz, U. (2020) -
Eremias Fitzinger, 1834 is a speciose Eurasian genus of true lizards with approximately 40 species. Eremias species occurring in Pakistan have never been examined before using molecular genetics. In the present study, six out of seven morphologically defined taxa distributed in Pakistan (E. acutirostris, E. aporosceles, E. cholistanica, E. kakari, E. persica, and E. scripta) were studied using mitochondrial (16S rRNA, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, cytochrome b) and nuclear (Rag1) genes. Data of 29 individuals were included in phylogenies using ENA/GenBank sequences. With a maximum of 20 species per analyzed data set, this study represents the most complete phylogeny of the genus to date. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian analyses were run for concatenated (3,528 bp) and single-locus data sets and supported by uncorrected p distance calculations to evaluate the phylogenetic placement and divergence of Pakistani taxa. Among the Pakistani taxa, we detected six mostly well-supported and deeply divergent clades (A-F) differing by uncorrected p distances of up to 23.8% for mtDNA (cytb) and 3.3% for the nuclear Rag1 locus. Despite morphological differences between E. aporosceles and E. acutirostris (both clade A), no unambiguous genetic support was found for these two taxa. Therefore, we regard E. aporosceles as a synonym of E. acutirostris. On the other hand, E. persica was found to represent a species complex with deeply diverged clades (E and F) in Pakistan. Eremias cholistanica (clade D) and E. kakari (clade B), two morphologically defined endemic taxa of Pakistan, were revealed as phylogenetically clearly distinct. Eremias scripta (clade C) from Pakistan was found to be genetically deeply divergent compared to sequences of this taxon from Afghanistan and Uzbekistan. Our study provides evidence that the current taxonomy of Eremias does neither reflect the genetic diversity nor the evolutionary history of the genus, necessitating a comprehensive integrative taxonomic revision of the whole genus.
Khan, M.A.R. (1998) -
Khan, M.S. (1986) -
Khan, M.S. (1999) -
Khan, M.S. (2002) -
During recent years several lizard taxa were added to the faunal list of Pakistan. Descriptions and new records are scattered in different publications in the herpetological literature. The present paper puts the information together, and provides a comprehensive list of recent publications on the lizards of Pakistan.
Khan, M.S. (2004) -
Khan, M.S. (2006) -
Khan, M.S. (2016) -
Khan, N.G. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Ryskov, A.P. & Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. & Ryabinin, D.M. & Grechko, V.V. & Tolkarskaya, O.N. (1998) -
The variability of mini-and microsatellite DNAs among the individuals of the parthenogenic Caucasian rock lizard, Lacerta dahli, from populations of Armenia was studied by multiloci DNA fingerprinting. The DNA fingerprints of all specimens of the parthenospecies appeared to be practically identical (species-specific), whereas those of the biparental species, L. raddei, proved to be individual-specific. Some of the mini-and microsatellite loci of parthenogenic animals revealed genetic heterogeneity. Quantitative estimates of the genetic variability of mini-and microsatellite DNA fragments, such as the mean index of similarity (S) and heterozygosity (H), for parthenogenic lizards were 0.967 and 0.025, respectively, whereas in bisexual species they were similar to those observed in other outbreeding populations (S = 0.38 and H = 0.695). Computer analysis of 1561 marker fragments of parthenogenic lizard DNAs discerned 12 DNA fingerprinting variants differing in 1-14 fragments. The data on the genetic variability of mini-and microsattelite loci of L. dahli may illustrate the process of spontaneous mutagenesis and the initial stage of intraspecies differentiation in natural populations of parthenogenic species.
Khannon, E.R. & Flachsbarth, B. & El-Gendy, A. & Mazik, K. & Hardege, J.D. & Schulz, S. (2011) -
Integumental gland secretions in lizards have been postulated to play a role as semiochemicals, but few studies have analysed the chemical nature of the gland secretions used in communication. We analysed the femoral gland secretions of Acanthodactylus boskianus using GC–MS, compared secretions of both sexes and different ages of males. For the first time in reptiles monoglycerides of fatty acids and glycerol monoethers of long chain alcohols were identified. In addition, alcohols, steroids, carboxylic acids, alkanes, amides, aldehydes, carboxylic acid esters, and squalene occurred. Sexual differences and age correlation in the amount of all major groups of compounds occurred, as such these results strengthen the theory that these secretions are used as semiochemicals. This work lays the foundations to test in future the role of chemical cues in mate choice and dominance hierarchies in lizards and to test the activity of compounds in behavioural assays to eventually identify the pheromones.
Khannoon, E. & Breithaupt, T. & El-Gendy, A. & Hardege, J.D. (2010) -
Femoral glands of lizards are holocrine structures that produce compounds used by lizards in intraspecific communication. Here we show that the femoral gland secretions of a lacertid lizard, Acanthodactylus boskianus, contain chemicals that elicit sex-specific responses. These glands are found in both males and female A. boskianus. We used the secretions of both sexes as stimuli presented on cotton swabs. Tongue flicks as well as other behavioural responses of both male and female lizards were recorded over a 60 second interval. Both males and females increased their tongue-flick rate towards male secretions, and some males bit swabs containing male secretions. Only a small proportion of females (25%) showed a similarly aggressive response. Female secretions only elicited elevated tongue-flick frequencies in males and did not elicit any aggressive behaviour. As a result of male-male competition and mate choice, the secretions appear to play a role in male territorial behaviour and in sex recognition, which could, for example, reduce the cost of male-male aggression when competing for females. This work opens future opportunities to test the role of chemical cues in mate choice and dominance hierarchies in lizards.
Khannoon, E.R. & El-Gendy, A. & Hardege, J.D. (2011) -
Femoral gland secretions are believed to play an important role in chemical communication and social organization of lizards. In spite of this, few studies have investigated the chemical composition and the behavioural roles of these secretions. The lacertid lizard Acanthodactylus boskianus is a good example, having these well-developed glands in both sexes. We used GC–MS chemical analysis of gland secretions and y-maze choice test bioassays to investigate the ability of the lizards to detect and respond to different synthetic blends made from compounds identified in the gland secretions. Based upon the GC–MS quantification data, we selected representatives of the main chemical groups (steroids, alcohols, acids, alkanes) detected in the lizard secretions and used these in a behavioural bioassay against controls. Males showed significant avoidance behaviour for cholesterol and alcohol blends, combined with agonistic behaviour towards these stimuli. Females did not show any significant selection to particular odour combinations. The data support the hypotheses that lizards can potentially use femoral gland secretions in chemical odour trails and utilize scent to mark territories and potentially also to establish dominance hierarchies. Cholesterol and long chain alcohols are suggested as potential candidates functioning as scent marking pheromones in A. boskianus.
Khannoon, E.R. & Lunt, D.H. & Schulz, S. & Hardege, J.D. (2013) -
The evolutionary phenomena associated with divergence in chemical signals between populations of the same species help to understand the process of speciation. Animals detect and react to semiochemicals and pheromones used in communication. Comparison between populations of the same species that are geographically isolated from one another allows us to determine the genetic or environmental factors responsible for chemical differentiation. Acanthodactylus boskianus from the east and west of Egypt were used as an example to compare the geographical diversity in chemical fingerprints of this species` femoral gland secretions and its phylogeography. Chemical analysis via GC—MS showed that the two geographically distinct populations` odor fingerprints are quantitatively different despite sharing the same components of the secretions. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the eastern and western Egyptian populations are genetically distinct and that chemical divergence of these lizards` odor profiles may be an example of signal evolution.
Khannoon, E.R. & Mohammed, K.K.H. & Dakrory, A.I. (2016) -
Skin lipids impede transcutaneous water loss in several species of squamate reptiles and act as a barrier to harmful microorganisms; they play an additional role as chemical cues involved in chemical communication eliciting behavioral responses in intra- and interspecific interactions. While studies till now give little detailed information on the nature of skin slough, the femoral gland secretions of the lacertid lizard Acanthodactylus boskianus have been analyzed and the chemical profile is known for the species. In the present study we use GC-MS analysis of skin slough to focus on the chemical composition of skin in the xeric-adapted lacertid lizard A. boskianus and compare this to its femoral secretions. In the shed skin we detected steroids, alcohols, carboxylic acids, alkanes, aldehydes, carboxylic acid esters, squalene, monoglycerides of fatty acids, glycerol monoethers of long chain alcohols, and 1,3 alkanediol, which are the same chemical groups already found in the femoral secretions of this species. However, the relative percentages of these compounds in skin slough differ from those known for femoral secretions. While the compounds characterizing skin slough are qualitatively similar to femoral secretions, they could represent an adaptation to hot and dry habitats of A. boskianus. With regard to the characteristic chemical profiles for different sexes, there is not enough evidence to support their possible role as chemosignals, and behavioral experiments should be performed to test the possible use of skin shedding in intraspecific communication.
Khannoon, E.R.R. (2009) -
Acanthodactylus boskianus is a common lizard species frequently occurring in different habitats throughout Egypt. Both males and females have well developed epidermal femoral glands. This species is territorial and males acquire dominance hierarchies in captivity. The current work included three different techniques to study the importance of femoral gland secretions in communication and signal evolution of A. boskianus. These are behaviour, chemical and DNA analyses techniques. Behavioural bioassays in different experiments showed that the femoral gland secretions are used in communication between the lizards. Communication includes possible roles in mate choice, agonistic behaviour between potential competitor males, and chemical trailing of scent pheromones. These behavioural results reflect the chemical results which showed the chemical variability between male ages, sexes, and allopatric populations. Chemical analysis of the secretions resulted in the identification of natural compounds not previously reported in reptiles, glycerolmonoethers and monoglycerides. The secretions seem to be used as scent pheromones, which are involved in signal evolution processes resulting in divergence of the chemical fingerprints of the gland secretion between allopatric populations.
Khannoon, E.R.R. & Dollahon, N.R. & Bauer, A.M. (2013) -
Femoral glands are holocrine structures that produce compounds used by lizards as peromones. Few studies have investigated the morphology and ultrastructure of these glands. We chose a closely related species pair from a lizard family having femoral glands in male and female of both species to illustrate comparative morphology and ultrastructure and their implications for the mechanism of secretion dispersal to the environment. We also aimed to test whether the structure and mechanism of secretion production differ between related species. In addition, we sought to gain a better understanding of the holocrine mechanism of secretion. Femoral glands of selected sympatric lacertid species, Acanthodactylus boskianus and A. scutellatus were studied comparatively using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). SEM revealed both interspecific and sexual variation in the morphology of the glandular pores. The external morphology suggests the mechanism of the secretion deposition where the convex part of pore-carrying scale is probably used to partition the secretory plug. Histology shows the epithelial cells of the gland duct as an extension of the epidermis with its covering keratin. The glandular acini are composed of germinal and secretory cells. The latter undergo four different stages of differentiation, from the beginning of the formation of secretory granules, through the accumulation of these granules, disintegration and formation of the secretory plug, which protrudes externally. The study considers the sequence of holocrine secretion development, and explains in part how such secretions are deposited on the substrate. Sexual differences at the external morphology level were more evident than interspecific differences.
Khelfaoui, F. & Bouam, I. & Saoudi, M. & Saadi, O. & Tahar-Chaouch, L. (2023) -
Broadly distributed lizard species may exhibit significant variation in the direction and magnitude of morphological dimorphism. The Algerian Psammodromus, Psammodromus algirus, is a common and widely distributed lacertid lizard in the Western Mediterranean region and research on sexual and geographical morphological variation in this species is uneven across clades, with the North African populations being overlooked. In this study we investigated the sexual and geographical dimorphism in two populations of P. algirus from Algeria. Although no morphological variation in SVL was detected in our study, we observed that males had larger heads and longer hind limbs than females. Additionally, the two populations differed in terms of pileus width, forelimb length, and hind limb fourth toe length, regardless of sex. We discuss the potential reasons for these observed patterns in relation to selective pressures, such as predation, competition, or sexual selection. The findings of this study suggest an intraspecific stability in morphological patterns across the geographic range of the species and emphasize the need for further research to unravel the underlying mechanisms responsible for the observed patterns of sexual and geographical morphological variations.
Khil, L. (2020) -
Bei der Beobachtung eines Brutpaares von Steinröteln (Monticola saxatilis) oberhalb von Anras, Osttirol gelang ein interessanter Einblick zur Rolle der Bergeidechse (Zootoca vivipara) als Nestlingsnahrung dieses Fliegenschäpperverwandten.
Khitrov, I. (2000) -
Khodadoost, M. & Pilorge, T. & Ortegas, A. (1987) -
Body size and density have been compared with the abundance and the size of invertebrates found in the environment in three populations of the common lizard, Lacerta vivipara J.. This comparison leads to the following results : 1) There is no relationship between the density level of the lizard populations and the abundance of the invertebrates sampled. 2) There is a positive relationship between the average body size of females in each population and the abundance of prey in the biotope. 3) There is also a positive relationship between female average body size and the average body length of invertebrates. 4) The smaller size of males in one of the populations with regard to the other two stresses the importance of other factors than the trophic variables considered here. Some hypotheses are formulated to try to explain these results. Nevertheless, it is obvious that other factors must be taken into consideration - physical structure of the environment, predation, etc... - to understand the differences observed among these populations
Khomustenko, Y.K. & Atayev, C.A. (1979) -
Khonyakina, Z.P. (1964) -
Khosravani, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Oraie, H. (2011) -
Khosravani, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Oraie, H. (2016) -
Khromov, V.A. (2021) -
Хромов В.А. (2021) -
Kidov A.A. (2018) -
the purpose of the research: to identify features of the parasite-host relations of the European common tick, Ixodes ricinus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Hyrcanian meadow lizard, Darevskia praticola hyrcanica (Tuniyev, Doronin, Kidov, et Tuniyev), 2011 in spring period. materials and methods. The study was carried out in May 2016 in the Gadazyghahi natural boundaries in Astara region of Azerbaijan. The animals were caught on the routes, divided into three mature groups (adult females, males and juvenile lizards) and examined for the presence of ticks. Frequency of occurrence, abundance and location of parasites were determined according to standard methods. Localization of parasites on lizards’ body was defined by the standard scheme. results and discussion. Only larvae and nymphs of the I. ricinus were found on the lizards. Ticks were found only on 32 lizards of 123 examined. The distribution of ticks in year-old lizards was 10,8%, adult females 28,6%, and adult males 35,3%. The distribution of feeding ticks is aggregated: 26 % of examined lizards were feeders for 100% of ticks. Higher abundance of parasites per one animal was observed in males (on average 3,1±0,78 ticks on one male and 1,6±0,36 on one female). The lowest value of parasite abundance was defined on one-year-old animals (no more than one tick per lizard). The ticks were attached on the forelegs, neck and sides of lizards. 89% of ticks were located under the forelegs. Domestic animals are the main feeders of imago I. ricinus, and the lizards provide feeding for larvae and nymphs. Keywords: European common tick, Ixodes ricinus, Hyrcanian meadow lizard, Darevskia praticola hyrcanica, parasite-host relationships, Talysh Mountains, Southeastern Azerbaijan. For citation: Kidov A. A. Parasite-host relationships of the ixodid tick Ixodes Ricinus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Hyrcanian meadow lizard Darevskia practicola hyrcanica (Tuniyev, Doronin, Kidov et Tuniyev, 2011) in Talysh Mountains (Southeastern Azerbaijan).
кидов, A.A. (2018) -
аннотация Цель исследований: выявление особенностей паразито-хозяинных отношений европейского лесного клеща Ixodes ricinus (Linnaeus, 1758) и гирканской луговой ящерицы Darevskia praticola hyrcanica (Tuniyev, Doronin, Kidov et Tuniyev, 2011). материалы и методы. Исследования проводили в мае 2016 г. в урочище Гадазыгахи в Астаринском районе Азербайджана. Живот- ных отлавливали на маршрутах, измеряли длину тела по стандартным методикам, подразделяли на три половозрастные груп- пы (взрослые самки, взрослые самцы и годовики), обследовали на наличие клещей, определяли встречаемость, обилие и локали- зацию паразитов по общепринятым методикам. Локализацию паразитов на теле ящериц определяли по стандартной схеме. результаты и обсуждение. На ящерицах были обнаружены лишь клещи преимагинальных стадий – личинки и нимфы I. ricinus. Всего клещи были отмечены на 32 ящерицах из 123 исследованных. Встречаемость клещей у годовиков гирканской луговой ящерицы со- ставила 10,8%; у взрослых самок – 28,6; у взрослых самцов – 35,3%. Распределение питающихся иксодовых клещей в выборке вида хозяина носило агрегированный характер: 26% изученных ящериц являлись прокормителями 100% изученных клещей. Более высо- ким обилием паразитов на одном животном характеризовались самцы (в среднем, 3,1±0,78 клещей на одной пораженной ящерице у самцов против 1,6±0,36 у самок). Годовики имели наименьшие значения обилия паразита (не более одного клеща на одну ящерицу). На ящерицах клещи прикреплялись на поясе передних конечностей, шее и боках. Наиболее предпочитаемое место прикрепления паразитов – область под передними конечностями, на которую приходилось 89% всех отмеченных клещей. Домашние животные являются основными прокормителями имаго I. ricinus, а ящерицы обеспечивают прокормление личинок и нимф. ключевые слова: европейский лесной клещ, Ixodes ricinus, гирканская луговая ящерица, Darevskia praticola hyrcanica, зараженность, паразито-хозяинные отношения, Талышские горы, юго-восточный Азербайджан. для цитирования: Кидов А. А. Паразито-хозяинные отношения иксодового клеща Ixodes ricinus (Linnaeus, 1758) и гирканской луговой ящерицы Darevskia praticola hyrcanica (Tuniyev, Doronin, Kidov et Tuniyev, 2011) в Талышских горах (юго-восточный Азербайджан). Рос- сийский паразитологический журнал.
Kidov A.A. (2021) -
Data on the reproduction of the rock lizard (Darevskia saxicola (Eversmann 1834)) in the gorges of Bol’shaya Laba (Karachay-Cherkessia) and Malaya Laba (Krasnodar Territory) rivers are presented. Gravid females of this species were captured in nature and transported to the laboratory. The animals were kept in captivity until oviposition. All eggs were obtained between July 20 and August 20. Breeding females had a body length of 42.5–60.1 mm. Hatches comprised 1–4 eggs 11.2–18.0 × 5.8–8.5 mm in size and weighing 0.185–0.535 g. Incubation in the laboratory lasted 38–47 days. Young lizards after hatching had a body length of 21.6–30.8 mm, tail 39.9–60.4 mm long, and weight of 0.375–0.635 g. A comparison of the reproductive characteristics of D. saxicola and syntopic species (D. derjugini (Nikolsky 1898) and D. pontica (Lantz et Cyren 1919)) was carried out. The late oviposition and relatively low fertility in the rock lizards are compen- sated for by the large size of eggs and newborn lizards.
Kidov, A.A. (2011) -
Кидов А.А. (2011) -
Kidov, A.A. (2018) -
The paper presents materials on the reproductive biology of the hyrcanian meadow lizard, Darevskia praticola hyrcanica from a typical locality (the Gadasygahi Natural Boundaries, Talysh Mountains, As- tara administrative district of Azerbaijan). Animals were caught in the first decade of May, 2016. After being caught, the adult lizards were kept in groups (one female and two males) in our laboratory until oviposition. Females with a body length of 45.8 – 60.6 mm were laying eggs from May 28 till June 20. A total of 25 egg clutches with 72 eggs were studied. The resulting clutches contained 1 to 6 eggs. The egg length was 8.71 – 13.4 mm, the width 5.4 – 7.0 mm, and the weight 0.18 – 0.36 g. Incubation at 27 – 30°C lasted 45 – 58 days. The newborn lizards at hatching from eggs had a body length of 19.4 – 25.7 mm, a tail length of 19.8 – 36.2 mm, and a body weight of 0.16 – 0.44 g.
Кидов А.А. (2018) -
Приводятся материалы по репродуктивной биологии гирканской луговой ящерицы, Darevskia praticola hyrcanica из типовой территории (урочище Гадазыгахи, Талышские горы, Астаринский район, Азербайджан). Животных отлавливали в I декаде мая 2016 г. После поимки взрослых ящериц группами (из одной самки и двух самцов) содержали в лаборатории до получения яиц. Самки с длиной тела 45.8 – 60.6 мм откладывали яйца в период с 28 мая по 20 июня. Всего были изучены 25 кладок яиц и 72 яйца. Полученные кладки насчитывали от 1 до 6 яиц. Дли- на яиц 8.71 – 13.4 мм, ширина 5.4 – 7.0 мм, масса 0.18 – 0.36 г. Инкубация при температуре 27 – 30°C составляла 45 – 58 суток. Молодь при вылуплении из яиц имела длину тела 19.4 – 25.7 мм, длину хвоста 19.8 – 36.2 мм, массу тела 0.16 – 0.44 г.
Kidov, A.A. (2019) -
Materials and methods. Observations of Amphibians and Reptiles were carried out during two tourist trips in March 2016 and in May 2018 in the Iranian provinces of Gilan and Ardebil. Results. New data on the distribution of 6 species of Amphibians (Bufo eichwaldi, Bufotes variabilis, Hyla orientalis, H. savignyi, Pelophylax ridibundus, Rana pseudodalmatina) and 21 species of Reptiles (Emys orbicularis, Paralaudakia caucasia, Trapelus ruderatus, Darevskia chlorogaster, D. defilippii, D. raddei, Eremias strauchi, Iranolacerta brandtii, Lacerta strigata, Ophisops elegans, Ablepharus bivittatus, Heremites auratus, Pseudopus apodus, Eryx jaculus, Eirenis punctatolineatus, Hemorrhois ravergieri, Platyceps najadum, Telescopus fallax, Xerotyphlops vermicularis, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata) in the study area were obtained. The author compares the obtained data with the results of other Herpetological researches in the region. Conclusions. In general, the herpetofauna of the Caspian slopes of the Talysh Range in Iran is an inseparable part of mesophilic herpetocomplexes with the prevalence of gyrcan elements common from the north-western foothills of Talysh in Azerbaijan to the Western Kopetdag in Turkmenistan.
Кидов, А.А. (2019) -
Актуальность и цели. Изученность герпетофауны иранской части гор Талыша и Ленкоранской низменности остается низкой. Цель настоящей работы – уточнить распространение земноводных и пресмыкающихся на территории иранского Талыша. Материалы и методы. Наблюдения за земноводными и пресмыкающимися осуществляли в ходе двух туристических поездок в марте 2016 г. и в мае 2018 г. на территории иранских провинций Гилян и Ардебиль. Результаты. Были получены новые данные о распространении на изучае- мой территории 6 видов земноводных (Bufo eichwaldi, Bufotes variabilis, Hyla orientalis, H. savignyi, Pelophylax ridibundus, Rana pseudodalmatina) и 21 вида пресмыкающихся (Emys orbicularis, Paralaudakia caucasia, Trapelus ruderatus, Darevskia chlorogaster, D. defilippii, D. raddei, Eremias strauchi, Iranolacerta brandtii, Lacerta strigata, Ophisops elegans, Ablepharus bivittatus, Heremites aura- tus, Pseudopus apodus, Eryx jaculus, Eirenis punctatolineatus, Hemorrhois ravergieri, Platyceps najadum, Telescopus fallax, Xerotyphlops vermicularis, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata). Автор проводит сравнение полученных данных с результатами других герпетологических исследований в регионе. Выводы. В целом герпетофауна прикаспийских склонов Талышского хребта в Иране является неразрывной частью мезофильных герпетокомплексов с превалированием гирканских элементов, распространенных от северо-западных предгорий Талыша в Азербайджане до Западного Копетдага в Туркменистане.
Kidov, A.A. (2020) -
Data on the reproduction of the rock lizard (Darevskia saxicola (Eversmann 1834)) in the gorges of Bolshaya Laba (Karachay-Cherkessia) and Malaya Laba (Krasnodar Territory) rivers are presented. Gravid females of this species were captured in nature and transported to the laboratory. The animals were kept in captivity until oviposition. All eggs were obtained between July 20th and August 20th. Breeding females had a body length of 42.5–60.1 mm. Hatches comprised 1–4 eggs sized 11.2–18.0 × 5.8–8.5 mm and weighting 0.185–0.535 g. Incubation in the laboratory lasted 38–47 days. Young lizards after hatching had a body length of 21.6– 30.8 mm, tail 39.9–60.4 mm long, and weight 0.375–0.635 g. A comparison of the reproductive characteris- tics of D. saxicola and the syntopic species (D. derjugini (Nikolsky 1898) and D. pontica (Lantz et Cyren 1919)) was carried out. The late oviposition and relatively low fertility in the rock lizards are compensated for by the large size of eggs and newborn lizards.
Кидов, А.А. (2020) -
Представлены данные о размножении скальной ящерицы (Darevskia saxicola (Eversmann 1834)) в ущельях рек Большая Лаба (Карачаево-Черкесия) и Малая Лаба (Краснодарский край). Беремен- ных самок этого вида отлавливали в природе и перевозили в лабораторию. Животных содержали в неволе до откладки яиц. Отмечается, что все кладки яиц были получены с III декады июля по III де- каду августа. Размножающиеся самки имели длину тела 42.5–60.1 мм. В кладках было от 1 до 4 яиц размерами 11.2–18.0 × 5.8–8.5 мм и массой 0.185–0.535 г. Инкубация в лабораторных условиях дли- лась 38–47 сут. Молодь после вылупления имела длину тела 21.6–30.8 мм, хвоста – 39.9–60.4 мм и массу 0.375–0.635 г. Проводится сравнение репродуктивных показателей D. saxicola с синтопиче- скими видами – D. derjugini (Nikolsky 1898) и D. pontica (Lantz et Cyren 1919). По мнению автора, поздние сроки откладки яиц и относительно невысокая плодовитость у скальной ящерицы воспол- няются крупными размерами яиц и новорожденных.
The paper presents materials on growing and winter hibernation of the Hyrcanian meadow lizard, Darevskia praticola hyrcanica, in artificial conditions. Juveniles were obtained from the captive breeding of lizards caught on the typical locality of this subspecies (Gadazyghahi Natural Boundary, the Talysh Mountains, Astara District, Azerbaijan) in the first decade of May, 2016. Immediately after leaving the eggs, newborn lizards were placed in groups of 5 specimens each into plastic 39×28×28 cm containers. Six groups were formed in total, and our research involved 30 lizards. The animals from the first three containers received only two-spotted crickets, Grillus bimaculatus, as feed (the control group). The liz- ards from the second three containers ate speckled cockroaches, Nauphoeta cinerea only (the experimen- tal group). The feed was offered to the lizards every other day. The growing lasted 450 days. The weight gain, survival and feed costs per unit weight of the animal (feed coefficient) were investigated. After growing the animals were placed into wintering rooms, where they were kept without feeding for 60 days at a temperature between 4–11oC. It was noted that during 450 days of growing the cockroach-fed lizards did not differ in weight from the cricket-fed animals. The feed coefficient of young meadow lizard grow- ing with cockroach (11.7–14.3) was similar to that of the animals that ate their traditional food, crickets (12.3–12.7). The survival rate of young lizards in different containers for 450 days of cultivation on both feed types was 100%. The lizards that ate cockroaches showed a better survival rate (100%) in the period of winter hibernation than the animals from the control group (86.6%).
Приводятся материалы по выращиванию и зимовке гирканской луговой ящерицы, Darevskia praticola hyrcanica в искусственных условиях. Молодь была получена от размножения ящериц, пойманных на типовой территории подвида (урочище Гадазыгахи, Талышские горы, Астаринский район, Азербайджан) в I декаде мая 2016 г. Сразу после выхода из яиц новорожденных ящериц рассаживали группами по 5 экз. в пластиковые контейнеры раз- мером 39×28×28 см. Было сформировано 6 групп, а всего в исследованиях принимало участие 30 ящериц. Живот- ные из первых трех контейнеров в качестве корма получали только нимф двупятнистого сверчка, Grillus bimacu- latus (контрольная группа). Ящерицы из вторых трех контейнеров питались только нимфами пепельного тара- кана, Nauphoeta cinerea (опытная группа). Корма предлагали ящерицам через день. Выращивание длилось 450 суток. Исследовали прирост массы, выживаемость и затраты кормов на единицу массы животного (кормовой коэффициент). После выращивания животных помещали в зимовальные помещения, где содержали без кормле- ния 60 сут. при температуре 4 – 11 C. Отмечается, что за 450 сут. выращивания ящерицы, получавшие в качестве корма таракана, не отличались по массе от животных, поедавших двупятнистого сверчка. Кормовой коэффициент при выращивании молоди луговой ящерицы с использованием пепельного таракана (11.7 – 14.3) был схож с тако- вым у животных, питавшихся традиционным кормом – двупятнистым сверчком (12.3 – 12.7). Выживаемость мо- лоди ящериц в разных контейнерах за 450 сут. выращивания на обоих видах кормов составила 100%. За 2 месяца зимнего содержания ящерицы, до этого питавшиеся пепельным тараканом, характеризовались лучшей выживае- мостью (100%), чем потреблявшие двупятнистого сверчка (80%).
Kidov, A.A. & Doronin, I.V. & Pykhov, S.G. & Doronina, M.A. (2019) -
The paper discusses the spread of the medium lizard, Lacerta media, in the Talysh Mountains on the terri- tory of Republic of Azerbaijan. Earlier, findings of this species were known in the North-Western part of the Talysh only. A new record of the medium lizard from the Sym village in the Astara District of Azerbaijan is presented.
А. А. Кидов, И.В. Доронин, С.Г. Пыхов & М.А. Доронина (2019) -
Обсуждается распространение средней ящерицы, Lacerta media в Талышских горах на территории Азербай- джанской Республики. Ранее были известны находки этого вида только в северо-западной части Талыша. При- водится новая находка средней ящерицы из селения Сым в Астаринском районе Азербайджана.
Kidov, A.A. & Erashkin, V.O. & Ivanov, A.A. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Askenderov, A.D. & Kondratova, T.E. (2024) -
The paper presents the results of studying the reproductive biology of Darevskia da- ghestanica in the valleys of Khzanor and Kitlyarta rivers (Tsunta district, Republic of Dage- stan, Republic of Dagestan). Adult females were caught in the II–III decades of May 2021. In the following, the animals were kept singly in a laboratory. Lizards laid eggs from the third decade of May to the second decade of June. The body length of breeding females was 43.95– 56.20 mm. Each clutch contained from 1 to 5 eggs with a length of 6.05‒14.47 mm, a width of 4.28‒7.30 mm and a weight of 0.10‒0.40 g. Incubation in artificial conditions lasted 36–51 days. The body length of young lizards emerging from eggs was 20.24‒27.52 mm, and the mass was 0.20‒0.42 g. The length of eggs in a clutch negatively correlated with the fertility of females, and also statistically significantly differed in clutches with different number of eggs. The authors conclude that D. daghestanica is similar to other representatives of the Darevskia (caucasica) complex, as well as to lizards from the Darevskia (praticola) complex in terms of reproductive phenology, size of breeding animals, fertility and the size of offspring.
А.А. Кидов & В.О. Ерашкин & А.А. Иванов & Л.Ф. Мазанаева & А.Д. Аскендеров & Т.Э. Кондратова (2024) -
Представленырезультатыизучениярепродуктивнойбиологии Darevskia daghestanica в долинах рек Хзанор и Китлярта (Цунтинский район, Республика Дагестан, РоссийскаяФедерация).ВзрослыхсамокотлавливаливоII–IIIдекадахмая2021г.Впос- ледующем животных содержали поодиночке в условиях лаборатории. Ящерицы откла- дывали яйца с III декады мая по II декаду июня. Длина тела размножающихся самок сос- тавляла 43.95 ‒ 56.20 мм. Каждая кладка содержала от 1 до 5 яиц длиной 6.05 ‒ 14.47 мм, шириной4.28‒7.30ммимассой0.10‒0.40г.Инкубациявискусственныхусловияхдли- лась 36 – 51 суток. Длина тела выходящих из яиц молодых ящериц равнялась 20.24 ‒ 27.52 мм, а масса 0.20 ‒ 0.42 г. Длина яиц в кладке отрицательно коррелировала с плодовитостью са- мок, а также статистически значимо различалась в разных по числу яиц кладках. Авторы заключают, что D. daghestanica по фенологии размножения, размерам размножающихся животных, плодовитости и размерам потомства схожа с другими представителями Darev- skia (caucasica) complex, а также с ящерицами из Darevskia (praticola) complex.
Kidov, A.A. & Ivanov , A.A. & Erashkin, V.O. & Kondratova, T.E. (2022) -
The Caspian lizard (Darevskia caspica) is a recently described endemic of the Hyrcanian forests of Northern Iran. The paper presents new data on the reproductive biology of D. caspica obtained in laboratory conditions. Breeding females have a body length of 53.4– 64.4 mm and a mass of 2.96–3.60 g. Females produce from one to three clutches per season, each of which contains 1–6 eggs. The length of these eggs is 10.35–13.95 mm, width 6.19–7.59 mm, and weight 0.27–0.45 g. The mass of an entire clutch of eggs is 0.43–1.84 g or 11.94-47.18% of the female’s weight. Incubation duration is 55–66 days at a temperature of 25–27°C and 42–49 days at a temperature of 28–30°C, respectively. Newborn lizards have a body length of 24.45–28.56 mm, a tail length of 38.00–53.00 mm and a mass of 0.34–0.53 g. Young females begin laying eggs 319–593 days after their hatching. It is noted that Caspian lizards have reproductive indicators similar to other representatives of the genus Darevskia, but are characterized by early puberty and high fertility per season.
А.А. Кидов, А.А. Иванов, В.О. Ерашкин, Т.Э. Кондратова (2022) -
Каспийская ящерица (Darevskia caspica) – недавно описанный эндемик гир- канских лесов северного Ирана. В работе представлены новые данные о репродуктивной биологии D. caspica, полученные в лабораторных условиях. Размножающиеся самки име- ют длину тела 53.4 ‒ 64.4 мм и массу 2.96 – 3.60 г. Самки за сезон производят от одной до трех кладок, каждая из которых содержит 1 – 6 яиц. Длина яиц составляет 10.35 ‒ 13.95 мм, ширина 6.19 ‒ 7.59 мм, а масса 0.27 ‒ 0.45 г. Масса всей кладки яиц равняется 0.43 ‒ 1.84 г или 11.94 ‒ 47.18% от массы самки. Инкубация длится 55 – 66 суток при температуре 25 – 27°С и 42 ‒ 49 суток при температуре 28 – 30°С. Новорожденные ящерицы имеют длину тела 24.45 ‒ 28.56 мм, длину хвоста 38.00 ‒ 53.00 мм и массу 0.34 ‒ 0.53 г. Молодые самки начинают откладывать яйца через 319 – 593 суток после вылупления. Отмечается, что кас- пийские ящерицы имеют репродуктивные показатели, схожие с другими представи- телями рода Darevskia, но характеризуются ранним половым созреванием и высокой пло- довитостью за сезон.
Kidov, A.A. & Ivanov, A.A. & Kondratova, T.E. & Stolyarova, E.A. & Nemyko, E.A. (2019) -
The paper discusses cases of eggs re-laying in two lizard species from the Darevskia (chlorogaster) com- plex. A male and a female of D. Chlorogaster were captured on 22 March, 2016 in the Gilan province (Iran), and she subsequently laid eggs on 29 May (4 eggs) and 5 July (4 ones). The eggs had length of 10.4–12.8 mm, the width of 6.1–6.5 mm, and the weight of 0.240–0.340 g. Young lizards came out from seven eggs after 52–55 days of incubation. The body length of these newborn lizards was 22.9–27.8 mm, the tail length was 38.5–46.5 mm, and the weight was 0.330–0.460 g. A male and a female of D. caspica were captured on May 22 in the Mazandaran province (Iran). The female laid eggs on June 15 (3 eggs) and July 12 (4 ones). The length of the eggs was 10.0–12.0 mm, the width was 5.0–7.0 mm, and the weight was 0.220–0.310. Young lizards exited from all eggs in 54–68 days. Their body length was 23.1– 26.0 mm, the tail length was 39.0–47.0 mm, and the weight was 0.300–0.390 g. The authors believe that these cases prove the possibility of multiple reproductions per season in D. chlorogaster and D. caspica.
Кидов А.А., Иванов А.А., Кондратова Т.Э., Столярова Е.А. & Немыко Е.А. (2019) -
Обсуждаются случаи повторной откладки яиц у двух видов ящериц из комплекса Darevskia (Chlorogaster). Самец и самка D. chlorogaster, отловленные 22 марта 2016 г. в провинции Гилян, в последующем откладывала яйца 29 мая (4 яйца) и 5 июля (4 яйца). Яйца имели длину 10.4 – 12.8 мм, ширину – 6.1 – 6.5 мм, массу – 0.240 – 0.340 г. Молодые вышли из 7 яиц через 52 – 55 суток инкубации. Длина тела новорожденных ящериц 22.9 – 27.8 мм, хвоста – 38.5 – 46.5 мм, масса – 0.330 – 0.460 г. Самец и самка D. caspica были пойманы 22 мая в провинции Мазендаран (Иран). Самка откладывала яйца 15 июня (3 яйца) и 12 июля (4 яйца). Длина яиц 10.0 – 12.0 мм, ширина – 5.0 – 7.0 мм, масса 0.220 – 0.310. Молодые ящерицы вышли из всех яиц через 54 – 68 суток. Длина их тела равнялась 23.1 – 26.0 мм, хвоста – 39.0 – 47.0 мм, масса – 0.300 – 0.390 г. Авторы считают, что эти случаи доказывают возможность неоднократного размножения за сезон у D. chlorogaster и D. caspica.
Kidov, A.A. & Ivanov, A.A. & Nemyko, E.A. (2019) -
Kidov, A.A. & Kovrina, E.G. (2015) -
We are present new data on breeding of the Bohme’s lizard, Lacerta boemica in the west periphery of area, in Kabardino-Balkaria. The body length of pregnant females was 74.4–94.1 mm and weight of 8.50–18.10 g before oviposition and 7.80–15.3 g after oviposition. In the clutches were 3–11 eggs length 11.0–15.8 mm and a width of 8.0–10.8 mm with a weight of 0.50–0.90 g. The duration of egg incubation at a temperature of 28–30ºC was equal to 45–46 days. The body length of the newborn animals was 28.9–36.9 mm and weight of 0.6–1.1 g.
Kidov, A.A. & Kovrina, E.G. & Timoshina, A.L. & Baksheyeva, A.A. & Matushkina, K.A. & Blinova, S.A. & Afrin, K.A. (2014) -
New data on the reproductive biology of the Artvin lizard from an isolated northeastern population in the Northwest Caucasus are presented. These lizards reach sexual maturity after their second wintering. Pregnant females have their body length from 53.4 to 63.7 mm and the mass of 3.8 - 5.9 g. Oviposition occurs from the first decade of June till the third decade of August. Clutches contain from 2 to 8 eggs with sizes of 9.3 - 14.8×5.7 - 7.1 mm and weights 0.23 - 0.28 g. On oviposition a female loses from 14.3 to 37.5% of her weight. The fertility of females depends on their length (r = 0.58) and weight (r = 0.60). The incubation duration at a temperature within 28 - 30°C is 41 - 48 days. The mass of eggs from their oviposition to hatching of young lizards increases by 2.7 - 4.0 times, the length does by 1.2 - 1.3 times, and the width does by 1.6 times. Young lizards with a body length of 22.4 - 26.4 mm and weight 0.29 - 0.45 g are hatched from the second decade of July till the first decade of October.
Кидов А.А., Коврина Е.Г., Тимошина А.Л., Бакшеева А.А., Матушкина К.А., Блинова С.А., Африн К.А. (2014) -
Впервые приводятся материалы по репродуктивной биологии артвинской ящерицы из изолированной северо-восточной популяции на Северо-Западном Кавказе. Половой зрелости ящерицы достигают после второй зимовки. Беременные самки имеют длину тела от 53.4 до 63.7 мм и массу 3.8 - 5.9 г. Откладка яиц происходит с I декады июня по III декаду августа. В кладках от 2 до 8 яиц размером 9.3 - 14.8×5.7 - 7.1 мм и массой 0.23 - 0.28 г. При откладке яиц самки теряют от 14.3 до 37.5% от своего веса. Плодовитость самок зависит от их длины (r = 0.58) и массы (r = 0.60). Длительность инкубации при температуре 28 - 30°C равняется 41 - 48 сут. Масса яиц от их откладки до вылупления молоди увеличивается в 2.7 - 4.0 раз, длина - в 1.2 - 1.3 раз, ширина - в 1.6 раз. Молодые ящерицы с длиной тела 22.4 - 26.4 мм и массой 0.29 - 0.45 г вылупляются со II декады июля по I декаду октября.
Kidov, A.A. & Kovrina, E.G. & Timoshina, A.L. & Matuschkina, K.A. & Blinova, S.A. & Afrin, K.A. (2015) -
Data on reproduction of the Black Sea lizard, Darevskia pontica (Lantz et Cyren, 1919) in the Northwestern Caucasus (a valley of Ubin River in the Seversky District of Krasnodar Krai) are provided. Adult females are larger than males. Oviposition was noted in June. Fecundity of females varied from 1 to 6 eggs. Sizes of eggs were the following: 8.5–11.9×4.3–6.8 mm. The incubation of eggs under the laboratory conditions lasted from 37 to 42 days. Newborn lizards had length of a body (L) 22.0–26.7 mm and mass of 0.2–0.4 g. Strong negative dependence of eggs length and length of newborn lizards from fertility of females is noted.
А.А. КИДОВ, Е.Г. КОВРИНА, А.Л. ТИМОШИНА, К.А. МАТУШКИНА, С.А. БЛИНОВА, К.А. АФРИН (2015) -
Приводятся данные о размножении понтийской ящерицы, Darevskia pontica (Lantz et Cyren, 1919) на Северо-Западном Кавказе (долина реки Убин в Северском районе Краснодар- ского края). Взрослые самки крупнее самцов. Откладка яиц отмечалась в июне. Плодови- тость самок составляла от 1 до 6 яиц. Размеры яиц — 8,5–11,9×4,3–6,8 мм. Инкубация яиц в лабораторных условиях длилась от 37 до 42 сут. Новорожденные ящерицы имели длину туловища (L) 22,0–26,7 мм и массу 0,2–0,4 г. Отмечена сильная отрицательная зависимость длины яиц и длины новорожденных ящериц от количества яиц в кладке.
Kidov, A.A. & Kovrina, E.G. & Timoshina, A.L. & Matushkina, K.A. (2016) -
The article presents the results of a study of parasite-host relationships of a common ixodid tick (Ixodes ricinus) and a Terek lizard, or Bohme’s lizard (Lacerta boemica). The investigations were carried out in the third decade of April – early May 2014 on the territory of the Kirovskiy and Alagirskiy Administrative Districts of the Republic of North Ossetia, Alania. We examined 72 lizards, including 29 adult females, 29 adult males and 13 immature bodies. Nearly half of adult lizards were attacked by ticks, there were more males than females (58.6% vs. 44.8%). Young lizards were under ectoparasitical impact to a much lesser extent (7.7%). All the feeding ticks were nymphs. The ticks showed invasive distribution in the host population: 44.7% of lizards were attacked by 100% of ticks. The size of lizards depended on the number of parasites on them. The number of ticks on adult animals was almost 2 times higher than on the young ones. The ticks attacked the following parts of the host’s body: bottom front and back parts of legs, a neck, ear holes, less – both sides of the body and a mouth.
А.А. КИДОВ, Е.Г. КОВРИНА, А.Л. ТИМОШИНА, К.А. МАТУШКИНА (2016) -
В статье приводятся результаты изучения паразито-хозяинных отношений иксодо- вого клеща Ixodes ricinus и терской ящерицы, или ящерицы Бёме, Lacerta boemica. Исследо- вания проводили в третьей декаде апреля – первой декаде мая 2014 г. на территории Ала- гирского и Кировского административных районов Республики Северная Осетия – Алания. Всего было обследовано 72 ящерицы, в том числе 29 самок, 29 самцов и 13 неполовозрелых особей. Почти половина взрослых ящериц была поражена клещами, причем самцы – в боль- шей степени, чем самки (58,6% против 44,8%). Молодь терской ящерицы подвергалась экто- паразитарному прессу в значительно меньшей степени (7,7%). Все питающиеся на ящерицах клещи находились на стадии нимфы. Клещ демонстрировал агрегированное распределение в популяции хозяина: 44,7% ящериц служили прокормителями для 100% найденных клещей. Размеры ящериц обуславливают количество размещенных на них паразитов. По количеству клещей на теле хозяина взрослые животные почти в 2 раза превосходили молодых. Для при- крепления клещи выбирали участки у основания передних и задних конечностей, на шее, в уш- ных отверстиях, в меньшей степени – по бокам туловища и в ротовой полости.
Kidov, A.A. & Kovrina, E.G. & Timoshina, A.L. & Matushkina, K.A. & Baksheyeva, A.A. & Afrin, K.A. & Blinova, S.A. (2014) -
Data on the common tick parasitism, Ixodes ricinus in populations of sintopic species of lizards (Brauner’s rock lizard, Darevskia brauneri; Black Sea lizard, D. pontica; sand lizard, Lacerta agilis) on Northwestern Caucasus during the spring period are submitted.
Kidov, A.A. & Matushkina, K.A. (2016) -
is article provides data on the distribution of lacertid lizards in the region of the Southwest Caspian. e study was performed between 2007 and 2014 in the territory of Jalilabad, Masalli, Yardimli, Len- koran, Masalli and Lerik administrative districts of the Republic of Azerbaijan. On the basis of eld data and the results of studies of museum collections, we noted a change in the range of lizards under the in uence of anthropogenic deforestation. In particular, it is noted that there is a narrowing of the distribution of the green belly lizard, Darevskia chlorogaster and the extension of the habitats of Azer- baijani, D.raddei and striped, Lacerta strigata lizards. Because of the fact that the green belly lizard distribution in the region decreased by more than a third, it is proposed that it be included in the Red Data Book of Azerbaijan.
Kidov, A.A. & Matushkina, K.A. (2017) -
The paper presents data on the reproductive biology of the sand lizard, Lacerta agilis, on the Stavropol Upland (Central Ciscaucasia, Russia). The animals – totally 39 males and 66 40 females – were caught in the wild (in vivo) in I–III decade of June 2014. The males were releasedin the places of capture immediately after the measurements. The females were kept according to standard methods in the laboratory to obtain their eggs. The body length of males in the studied population is significantly higher than that of females. Female reproductive size is 69,0–85,6 mm. From the captured females, 22 specis laid eggs. Oviposition occured in the second decade of June to early July. Clutches included from 2 to 8 eggs of a size of (10,2–17,7)×(7,2–10,3) mm. As the number of eggs per clutch increased, the egg length decreased (r=-0,53). Incubation of eggs was performed in an incubation apparatus at a temperature of 28–30°C. During the incubation period, the eggs significantly increased in size: an average length increased by 34%, width – 50%, and weight – 157%. Artificial incubation lasts 42–54 days, however, the reported single case of an incubation period lasting 78 days may indicate a possibility of retarded embryonic development. Body length of hatching young lizards constituted 29,6–34,8 mm and their weight – 0,67–0,97 g. Young lizards and adult females were uncaged into the wild after the research had been completed.
А.А. КИДОВ, К.А. МАТУШКИНА (2017) -
В статье представлены данные о репродуктивной биологии песчаной ящерицы Lacerta agilis на Ставропольской возвышенности (Центральное Предкавказье, Россия). Животных - всего 39 мужчин и 66 40 женщин - были пойманы в дикой природе (in vivo) в I-III декаде июня 2014 года. Самцы были выпущены в местах захвата сразу после измерений. Женщин поддерживали в соответствии со стандартными методами в лаборатории для получения их яиц. Длина тела самцов в исследуемой популяции значительно выше, чем у самок. Женский репродуктивный размер составляет 69,0-85,6 мм. От захваченных самок 22 специи откладывают яйца. Откладка яйцекладки происходила во второй декаде июня - начале июля. Муфты включали от 2 до 8 яиц размером (10,2-17,7) × (7,2-10,3) мм. По мере увеличения количества яиц на муфту длина яйца уменьшилась (r = -0,53). Инкубацию яиц проводили в инкубационном аппарате при температуре 28-30 ° С. Во время инкубационного периода яйца значительно увеличились в размерах: средняя длина увеличилась на 34%, ширина - 50%, а вес - 157%. Искусственная инкубация длится 42-54 дня, однако сообщаемый единичный случай инкубационного периода продолжительностью 78 дней может указывать на возможность замедления эмбрионального развития. Длина тела вылупляющихся молодых ящериц составляла 29,6-34,8 мм, а их вес - 0,67-0,97 г. После завершения исследования молодые ящерицы и взрослые женщины были неотделаны в дикую природу.
Kidov, A.A. & Nemyko, E.A. & Ivanov, A.A. & Pykhov, S.G. (2018) -
The article discusses the cases of finding pregnant females and eggs of the Pontic lizard (Darevskia pontica) in Northwest Caucasus in July and August. In the spring and early summer in 2017 in the region there were the temperatures below climate normal. The Pontic lizard began to lay eggs only in late July and in August. Along the Black sea coast of the Caucasus (Tuapse, Krasnodar Krai) there was egg laying in late July, and hatching took place from early August to early September. The Pontic lizards’ hatching in the North Caucasus (valley of the Malaya Laba River, the settlement Burniy, Krasnodar Krai) took place in July – August, and the young lizards hatched out in September. The authors believe that the cases of late laying in nature prove the changes in the reproductive season rather than some repeated parturiating.
А. А. Кидов, Е. А. Немыко, А. А. Иванов, С. Г. Пыхов (2018) -
В статье рассматриваются случаи находок во второй половине лета (в июле и августе) беременных самок и яиц понтийской ящерицы, Darevskia pontica, на Северо-Западном Кавказе. Весна и начало лета 2017 г. в указанном регионе характеризовались температурами ниже климатической нормы. Понтийская ящерица приступила к размножению только в конце июля – в августе. На Черноморском побережье Кавказа (город Туапсе Краснодарского края) кладки яиц от- мечались в конце июля, а молодь вылуплялась с начала августа по начало сентября. На Северном Кавказе (долина реки Малая Лаба, поселок Бурный Краснодарского края) кладки яиц были полу- чены в июле-августе, а молодые ящерицы вышли из яиц только в сентябре.
Kidov, A.A. & Pykhov, S.G. & Dernakov, V.V. (2009) -
Kidov, A.A. & Timoshina, A. (2017) -
We report the investigation results of reproductive biology of the Black Sea lizard Darevskia pontica in the valley of the Malaya Laba River (Northwest Caucasus). Based on allocation of groups in size and color, we assume that these lizards begin to reproduce after the second hibernation. Adult females of the Black Sea lizard are statistically superior to the males in body length and weight. Females collected in nature from the III decade of May to the I decade of June laid eggs in the laboratory in the II – III decades of June. In the nature, eggs were found also in the II–III decade of August. The body length of the females which brought the offspring was equal to 50,4–57,3 mm. Clutches contain 3–7 eggs with a mass of 0,21–0,45 g and size of 9,0–10,8×5,1–6,4 mm. Incubation in the laboratory conditions lasted for 40–47 days. Newborn lizards had a mass of 0,20–0,36 g and a body length of 20,2–26,5 mm.
Кидов А.А. & Тимошина А.Л. (2017) -
статье приводятся результаты изучения репродуктивной биологии понтий- ской ящерицы, Darevskia pontica в долине реки Малая Лаба (Северо-Западный Кавказ). На основании выделения групп по размерам и окраске предполагается, что к размножению эти ящерицы приступают после второй зимовки. Взрослые самки понтийской ящерицы статистически значимо превосходят самцов, как по длине тела, так и по массе. Самки, от- ловленные в природе в III декаде мая – I декаде июня, в лаборатории откладывали яйца во II–III декадах июня. В природе находили кладки также во II–III декадах августа. Длина тела самок, принесших потомство, равнялась 50,4–57,3 мм. Кладки содержали 3–7 яиц массой 0,21–0,45 г и размерами 9,0–10,8×5,1–6,4 мм. Инкубация в лабораторных условиях длилась 40–47 суток. Новорожденные ящерицы имели массу 0,20–0,36 г и длину тела 20,2–26,5 мм.
Kidov, A.A. & Timoshina, A. &Hairutdinov, I. & Matushkina, K. (2016) -
We report data on the age and growth of the Black Sea lizard in the Ubin River valley (Severskiy District of Krasnodar Krai, Russia, Northwest Caucasus). Using skeletochronological analysis, we have studied 111 finger phalanxes, including 59 from females and 52 from males. The average age of females in the studied samples is 5.6±0.12 years (from 4+ to 8+ years). Males have an average age of 4.58±0.12 (from 3+ to 6+ years). Lizards of different age groups have a high individual variability in size and body weight. This circumstance makes it impossible to determine the age of these animals on the basis of allocation of different size`s groups. From studied females, 14 specimens aged 5+ to 8+ years (average age of 5.7±0.28 years) yielded offspring. Age variability in the reproductive performance has not been observed.
Kidov, A.A. & Timoshina, A.L. & Hayrutdinoiv, I.Z. & Matushkina, K.A. (2017) -
The article provides the data on the age, growth and reproduction of the Derjugin’s lizards on the northeastern periphery of the area – in the gorge of the Malaya Laba River (Northwestern Caucasus). With the help of skeletochronological analysis the age of 29 lizards (16 males and 13 females) was determined. The age of the males was 3–5, the average of which is 3.9. The females were also aged 3–5 with the average of 3.7. The relative body length of the three-year-old animals in comparison with the length of the body of the newborn lizards was 172.0–195.5% (males) and 205.3–258.9% (females). At the age of 4 the length of the body of the lizards was 172.4–206.1% (males) and 215.0254.5% (females). The five-year-old males and females had a relative length of the body of 179.7–213.8% and 188.6–230.5% respectively. Among the thirteen females under consideration, the eight exemplars brought forth. A large part of the breeding lizards were aged 3 (5 exemplars), but there were also a four-year-old (2 exemplars) and one five-year-old female. The authors stress that in the North-East of the area the Derjugin’s lizard has a relatively small size and later onset of puberty in females. The average age and maximum life span of lizards studied are consistent with the literature data.
Kidov, A.A. & Timoshina, A.L. & Khairutdinov, I.Z. & Kovrina, E.G. & Matushkina, K.A. (2014) -
Kies, J.A. (1967) -
Kikukawa, N. & Hikida, T. (2012) -
We investigated sexual size dimorphism (SSD), sexual shape dimorphism (SShD), and allometric growth in the skull of Takydromus tachydromoides using geometric morphometries. We analyzed 40 landmarks on the skull from dorsal, ventral, and lateral views. As a result, significant sexual dimorphisms were recognized in both size and shape of the skull. The analysis of SSD revealed that adult males have larger skull relative to the snout-vent length, and the analysis of SShD indicated that adult males have larger jaw muscle adductor chambers than adult females. Moreover, various allometric shape changes in both sexes were visualized by the thin plate splines. However, only subtle sexual differences in allometric shape changes were observed. The skull size and shape of this species may be influenced by phylogenetic constraints and only weakly driven by sexual selection.
Kilchoer, N. (2017) -
Kim, B.-N. & Kim, J.-K. & Park, D. (2012) -
Information about the mating behaviors of an endangered species is critical for the understanding of the natural history of the species as well as in situ and ex situ breeding programs designed to rehabilitate field populations. We describe the mating behaviors of the Mongolian racerunner (Eremias argus), an endangered species in South Korea. The mating of this species consists of precopulatory, copulatory, and postcopulatory stages and is composed of 12 different mating behaviors. During the postcopulatory stage, other males or females not involved in mating show more interference behaviors than during the precopulatory and copulatory stages. The male E. argus has an extraordinarily long postcopulatory bite, which may function as a type of mate-guarding behavior. This study is the first report on the mating behavior of a South Korean reptile.
Kim, B.N. & Kim, I.H. & Kim, J.K. & Park, D. (2010) -
To understand oviposition and egg hatching of the Mongolian racerunner (Eremias argus) in the laboratory and field, we allowed 21 female lizards to lay their eggs, collected eggs, measured mass, length, and width of the eggs, incubated the eggs, and measured mass and snout-vent length (SVL) of hatchlings. Females laid about 3 eggs per clutch over two clutches in a breeding season between late May and early July, 2010, and buried the eggs in the sand at approximately 15 – 20 cm depth. Mass, length and width of the eggs from the first and second clutches in the laboratory were not different. The relative clutch mass (total egg mass/gravid female mass) of the first clutch in the laboratory was smaller as 0.26 than 0.39 of the second clutch in the field. The incubation period of eggs in a common used incubator was shorter as 38 days than 50 days of a hand-made incubator although the former showed about 5% hatching failure. Mass and SVL of hatchlings were not different depending on the incubator types, common used and hand-made incubators, and on the first and second clutches in the laboratory.
김빛나, 김일훈, 김자경, 박대식 (2010) -
Kim, I.H. (2012) -
Kim, I.H. & Ra, N.Y. & Park, D. (2012) -
Information on habitat use is critical in sizing protected areas for endangered reptile species.To investigate habitat use,home range,and hibernaculum of the endangered Mongolian Racerunner (Eremias argus),we radio-tracked 40 specimens in a coastal sand dune in South Korea.Of the 163 locations recorded during the breeding season,150 (92.0%) were in grass sand dunes,and the rest (8.0%),all associated with the same lizard,were in shrub sand dunes.All of the 123 locations recorded during the non-breeding season were in grass sand dunes.No lizards were found in the grasslands abutting the dunes.The four lizards with identifiable hibernation sites were found under an average of 17.8 cm of sand and were all located in grass sand dunes.The lizards moved approximately 5 m daily and used 162 m2 of home range (computed by minimum convex polygon,MCP) during the breeding season,and they moved approximately 2 m and used 68 m2 of home range during the non-breeding season.However,the mean daily moved distances and MCP home ranges were not statistically significantly different between the seasons or between males and females.Our results suggest that in coastal sand dunes,E.argus uses grass sand dunes as its main habitat throughout the year.This finding could be used to determine the appropriate habitat size and to designate for the conservation of this endangered species.
Kim, J.-K. & Kim, I.-H. & Kim, B. & Park, D. (2010) -
김자경, 김일훈, 김빛나, 박대식 (2010) -
Kim, J.-K. & Song, J.-Y. & Lee, J.-H. & Park, D. (2010) -
In this study, we have evaluated the physical characteristics of neonate, female, and male Mongolian racerunners (Eremias argus) and determined the age structure of a population of the species in a field located in Taean-gun, Chungnam, South Korea. The physical parameters of females and males, including snout-vent length (SVL), head length, head width, and body mass were found to be significantly interrelated. Male Mongolian racerunners exhibited significantly longer heads than the females, but other physical parameters, such as SVL, head width, and body mass did not differ between the female and male specimens. In the study population, the females ranged in age from two to eleven years old and the males ranged between two to eight years of age. The number of females and males, when separated into different age classes, did not differ within each age class. Male Mongolian racerunners evidenced greater SVL growth coefficients than the females, but asymptotic SVL did not differ between the females and males.
Kim, J.K. (2010) -
Kim, J.K. & Kim, I.H. & Kim, B.N. & Ra, N.Y. & Park, D. (2011) -
Understanding habitat characteristics of an endangered species in the field is critical to conserve or recover the endangered species. Mongolian racerunner, Eremias argus, is an endangered species designated by the Ministry of Environment of Korea, and it has found in coastal dunes, riparian areas, and mountain areas. In this study, we determined and compared the characteristics of E. argus habitat in coastal dunes and mountain areas where they are both present and absent. The sand dunes where E. argus are present have higher plant coverage than others. The grain size of the sand soil in the habitat is fine and medium and Elymus molis, Ischaemum anthephoroides, and Carex kobomugi are dominant plants. Various insects from 26 different families were found. The mountain areas where E. argus are present are composed of higher proportion of shrub and bare ground areas, but lower of tree areas than others. The grain size of the sand soil in the habitat is coarse and very coarse and plants from Gramineae and Fagaceae are dominant. Most lizards were observed on the bare ground where shrub is nearby.
김자경, 김일훈, 김빛나, 박대식 (2011) -
Kimovna, P.R. (2018) -
Кимовна, П.Р. (2018) -
King, P.W. (1983) -
Kiourtsoglou, A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Poursanidis, D. & Jablonski, D. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2021) -
The Peloponnese wall lizard, Podarcis peloponnesiacus, is endemic to the Peloponnese. Although the phylogeny and species diversity of the Balkan species of Podarcis have been extensively studied, the intraspecific relationships of P. peloponnesiacus are not yet well defined. The aim of this study was to investigate the intraspecific diversity in this species and clarify its taxonomic status by analyzing eight gene fragments (two mitochondrial and six nuclear) and several morphological traits, typically used for systematic inferences within the genus Podarcis. Together with ecological niche modeling, we provided an integrative evaluation of the differentiation between lineages. The combination of several phylogenetic, species delimitation, and chronophylogenetic analyses revealed the existence of two highly supported and divergent clades with a distinct geographical and parapatric distribution and high niche overlap. The differentiation of the two clades dates back to the Pleistocene and is probably correlated with the paleogeography of the Peloponnese. These clades also differed in several phenotypic traits, which, however, exhibit extensive overlap and are not fully diagnostic. The combination of the above results allowed us to identify the two revealed clades as distinct species.
Kir, I. (2005) -
In this study, the fish, amphibian and reptile fauna of Karatas Lake were investigated between October-2002 and May 2004. In the research area, totally 15 species belong to 9 families from the studied groups were determined. According to the species richness; 4 fish, 2 amphibians and 9 reptiles were determined and given as a list. All of the frog and reptil species and one fish species, Carassius carassius, are reported for the first time from the research area.
Kirac, A. & Mert, A. (2019) -
Climate change created predominantly by burning fossil fuels leads to increased pressure on biodiversity. It may cause extinction in lizard species over the forthcoming years. Lizard species that are unable to adjust rapidly enough to the ecological alterations due to climate change are particularly under threat. Therefore, vulnerable lizard species should be monitored and adopt climate change scenarios. This study examines the changes in the habitats of Danford’s lizard (Anatololacerta danfordi) according to the RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 (HADGEM2-ES) climate scenarios. We modelled the current habitat preferences of A. danfordi using the MaxEnt method based on the bioclimatic features derived from Worldclim. Our results showed that A.danfordi prefers habitats with the bioclimate features including 12 mm for precipitation of driest month, 1-2ºC for mean temperature of wettest quarter, -4ºC for min temperature of coldest month, and 600 mm for annual precipitation. We determined the potential distributions of the A.danfordi using the model and GIS facilities for both RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 climate scenarios. In conclusion, the potential habitats of this lizard species may be dramatically influenced from two climate scenarios. We envisage that the suitable habitats may be mostly relocated from the south toward the north. A.danfordi may not adapt this rapid change and may not migrate to new suitable locations within this short period. Therefore, governments should make provisions against climate change without delay.
Kirbis, N. (2015) -
Kirbis, N. & Zagar, A. & Govedic, M. & Vrezec, A. (2013) -
Knowledge on habitat use of animal species is important for its effective conservation. In Slovenia the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) is according to current knowledge distributed mainly in the river valleys. However, the impact of floods on its habitat selection in river valleys is not known. Therefore the main goal of our study was to establish the flood effect of the distribution of the sand lizards at river banks of the river Drava in NE Slovenia. We used the transect survey method with transects located outside the flooded area and in three different flood zones: (1) exceptional floods (every 50 years), (2) occasional floods (every 10 to 20 years) and (3) frequent floods (every 2 to 5 years). The areas with frequent floods have been flooded every year in the last five yearsas well as during the study year when also a part of the zone with occasional floods has been flooded. Surveys had been conducted in two different seasons (spring and summer) in 2012 and in good weather conditions. We have found out that the distribution of lizards is significantly confined to areas with floods since most of the lizards were recorded in zones with frequent and common floods. No sand lizards were found outside the floodplain. The seasonal differences were observed in adults, which more frequently occupied areas with occasional floods in spring and areas with frequent floods in summer. On the contrary, juveniles were present almost exclusively in areas with occasional floods. The direct effect of floods was also observed since in 2012 water covered numerous transects with more than 100 cm. The next day after the water retreat, the transect surveys revealed that the number of lizards corresponds to previous counts before flood event. We suggest that the sand lizards select the floodplains significantly and its population is even able to sustain flood events, therefore the species can be a useful indicator species for assessing the ecological state of river floodplains.
Kirchhof, S. (2011) -
Several specimens of different genera of Lacertid lizards were collected during a 4-week-trip into the Limpopo Province of South Africa. Depending on their habitat members of the different species occurred within different reptile species assemblages. On the Soutpansberg specimens of Nucras intertexta were recorded in unusual habitat and a genetic study shall resolve their systematic position. No Lacertids were recorded in the high altitudes of the Blouberg and Wolkberg, which is most probably attributed to sampling artifacts.
Kirchhof, S. & Engleder, A. & Mayer, W. & Richter, K. (2011) -
Kirchhof, S. & Hetem, R.S. & Lease, H.M. & Miles, D.B. & Mitchell, D. & Müller, J. & Rödel, M.-O. & Sinervo, B. & Wassenaar, T. & Murray, I.W. (2017) -
Knowledge of the thermal ecology of a species can improve model predictions for temperatureinduced population collapse, which in light of climate change is increasingly important for species with limited distributions. Here, we use a multi-faceted approach to quantify and integrate the thermal ecology, properties of the thermal habitat, and past and present distribution of the diurnal, xeric-adapted, and active-foraging Namibian lizard Pedioplanis husabensis (Sauria: Lacertidae) to model its local extinction risk under future climate change scenarios. We asked whether climatic conditions in various regions of its range are already so extreme that local extirpations of P. husabensis have already occurred, or whether this micro-endemic species is adapted to these extreme conditions and uses behavior to mitigate the environmental challenges. To address this, we collected thermoregulation and climate data at a micro-scale level and combined it with micro- and macroclimate data across the species’ range to model extinction risk. We found that P. husabensis inhabits a thermally harsh environment, but also has high thermal preference. In cooler parts of its range, individuals are capable of leaving thermally favorable conditions—based on the species’ thermal preference—unused during the day, probably to maintain low metabolic rates. Furthermore, during the summer, we observed that individuals regulate at body temperatures below the species’ high thermal preference to avoid body temperatures approaching the critical thermal maximum. We find that populations of this species are currently persisting even at the hottest localities within the species’ geographic distribution. We found no evidence of range shifts since the 1960s despite a documented increase in air temperatures. Nevertheless, P. husabensis only has a small safety margin between the upper limit of its thermal preference and the critical thermal maximum and might undergo range reductions in the near future under even the most moderate climate change scenarios.
Kirchhof, S. & Hipsley, C.A. & Corl, A. & Dell`Mour, H. & Müller, J. (2014) -
Kirchhof, S. & Jacobsen, N. & Richter, K. (2012) -
Intraspecific variation in morphology, colouration, pholidosis, and tail loss rate of up to 80 specimens of the endemic Soutpansberg rock lizard Australolacerta rupicola were assessed from 2005 to 2007. These were analysed together with data from the type specimen and eleven additional specimens from an earlier study (1979–1985). In comparison with other lacertids, this species exhibits only a feeble sexual dichromatism. Analyses of morphometric characters show the existence of sexual size dimorphism, with females growing to greater snout–vent lengths and males having larger heads. Additionally, adult males have significantly more femoral pores than females. Compared to adults, juveniles have proportionally larger heads. The frequencies of regenerated tails did not show significant differences between the tested groups. All differences described are discussed in the light of the ecology of this species.
Kirchhof, S. & Krämer, M. & Linden, J. & Richter, K. (2010) -
The Soutpansberg situated in north-eastern South Africa was investigated with respect to its reptile species diversity, geographic range of the species and habitat utilisation. Typical inselberg characteristics are discussed in the context of the herpetofauna and compared with the Blouberg, an isolated mountain range to the west of the Soutpansberg. Possible biogeographic links between the species assemblage of the Soutpansberg and adjacent areas are discussed in the context of present geological and climatic conditions within the area. The Soutpansberg reptile community clearly shows effects of isolation. The mistbelt and the grassland on the summits, which both withstood climatic oscillations in the past, harbour the majority of species and most of the endemic taxa in particular. Hence, these areas are of significant ecological value for the reptile community. Rocky habitats and the cooler and moister climate on the mountain provide exceptional conditions within this area. Most of the Soutpansberg endemics exhibit a rupicolous lifestyle and a large number of species are adapted to mesic conditions. A high proportion of Afromontane species was detected. Furthermore, eastern coastal and Lowveld elements exert an influence on the species composition whereas the Kalahari elements are of lesser importance. Tropical forest species are completely absent. The Soutpansberg harbours more endemics (nine taxa) compared to the Blouberg (three taxa) due to its larger size and the resultant decreased risk of extinction.
Kirchhof, S. & Linden, J. & Rödder, D. & Richter, K. (2010) -
Foraging mode of the endemic Soutpansberg rock lizard (Australolacerta rupicola) was determined by (1) measuring the number of movements per minute (MPM) and the percentage time spent moving (PTM); and (2) analysing faecal samples. Furthermore, these criteria were related to diet composition, proportion of attacks initiated while moving and foraging substrate. The results are discussed in comparison to the foraging modes of 20 other lacertid species. Values for MPM and PTM as well as faecal analysis indicate an active foraging strategy for A. rupicola. Although rock living, this species mostly forages in leaf litter where it is well camouflaged while actively searching for sedentary prey. Even in comparison to other active foragers of the family Lacertidae, A. rupicola displays the prototypic behaviour of a widely foraging lizard with very high PTM and very low MPM.
Kirchhof, S. & Linden, J. & Richter, K. & Rödder, D. (2010) -
Daily activity patterns of the endemic Soutpansberg rock lizard (Australolacerta rupicola) and ecologically similar syntopic lizards were analysed to assess potential niche partitioning. Data to evaluate the temporal niche included time and temperature, and niche overlap was determined over three different sample plots using the Pianka-Index. Altogether, 11 other lizard species and four snake species were recorded at the sample plots. Australolacerta rupicola showed a large overlap in the spatial niche with Trachylepis varia and Platysaurus relictus and in the trophic niche with T. varia, however, the maximum activity period of A. rupicola fell into periods of low activity by P. relictus and T. varia and vice versa. These patterns were most pronounced when the different sample plots were analysed separately. The asynchronous activity cycles are probably the result of avoidance of competition for food in the case of the active foragers A. rupicola and T. varia, whereas different thermal preferences driven by physiological constraints appear to be more relevant when comparing A. rupicola and P. relictus. Individual numbers of the usually abundant species T. varia and P. relictus decreased in A. rupicola habitats and it is posted that the latter species resides in less climatically favourable habitats, thus avoiding competition with other rupicolous lizards.
Kirchhof, S. & Losogo, L.B. & Gooh, C.S. & Malonza, P.K. (2018) -
Kirchhof, S. & Lyra, M.L. & Rodriguez, A. & Ineich, I. & Müller, J. & Rödel, M.-O. & Trape, J.-F. & Vences, M. & Boissinot, S. (2021) -
Climate has a large impact on diversity and evolution of the world’s biota. The Eocene–Oligocene transition from tropical climate to cooler, drier environments was accompanied by global species turnover. A large number of Old World lacertid lizard lineages have diversified after the Eocene–Oligocene boundary. One of the most speciose reptile genera in the arid Palearctic, Acanthodactylus, contains two sub-Saharan species with unresolved phylogenetic relationship and unknown climatic preferences. We here aim to understand how and when adaptation to arid conditions occurred in Acanthodactylus and when tropical habitats where entered. Using whole mitogenomes from fresh and archival DNA and published sequences we recovered a well-supported Acanthodactylus phylogeny and underpinned the timing of diversification with environmental niche analyses of the sub-Saharan species A. guineensis and A. boueti in comparison to all arid Acanthodactylus. We found that A. guineensis represents an old lineage that splits from a basal node in the Western clade, and A. boueti is a derived lineage and probably not its sister. Their long branches characterize them—and especially A. guineensis—as lineages that may have persisted for a long time without further diversification or have undergone multiple extinctions. Environmental niche models verified the occurrence of A. guineensis and A. boueti in hot humid environments different from the other 42 arid Acanthodactylus species. While A. guineensis probably remained in tropical habitat from periods prior to the Eocene–Oligocene boundary, A. boueti entered tropical environments independently at a later period. Our results provide an important baseline for studying adaptation and the transition from humid to arid environments in Lacertidae.
Kirchhof, S. & Penner, J. & Rödel, M.O. & Müller, J. (2017) -
Within the genus Pedioplanis the two basal species P. laticeps and P. burchelli are phenotypically similar. In this study we examine material of both species to determine diagnostic characters and we revise the distribution of Pedioplanis laticeps. For this we used data from museum collections, literature records, as well as results from our own surveys. Careful examination of the type material of P. laticeps and P. burchelli, as well as additional specimens, confirmed several morphological characters that distinguish between the two species. A reconstruction of the taxonomic history of the species revealed that P. laticeps was described in 1845, and not in 1844 or 1849 as commonly attributed. We designate a holotype for P. burchelli, a lectotype and two paralectotypes for P. laticeps, re-describe the types of P. laticeps and P. burchelli and correct previous misidentifications. Recent literature considers P. laticeps endemic to South Africa. However, 40-year-old museum records contain specimens sampled in Namibia. Surveys in Namibia confirmed at least one extant population of P. laticeps north of the Orange River, close to an area where they were previously collected. Natural history data is very scarce for both species and a comprehensive genetic analysis, covering the entire ranges of both taxa, is urgently needed to shed light on the evolutionary history of the two sister species.
Kirchhof, S. & Richter, K. (2009) -
Kirchhof, S. & Rödel, M.-O. & Mueller, J. (2016) -
Reptiles are supposed to be relatively invulnerable to the ongoing rapid anthropogenic climate change as they are able to actively regulate their body temperature (Tb) through behaviour, tolerate high Tb and resist water loss. However, recent studies have shown that lizards and snakes seem to be more at risk than previously expected. In Mexico, increased local extinction probability in lizards correlated with the magnitude of warming during the reproductive period, questioning the assumption of climate invulnerability. We tested the hypothesis that different lizard species of the family Lacertidae are vulnerable to rises in maximum temperatures in Namibia, especially in the Namib and the Kalahari. We predicted that inhabiting different habitats with different microhabitat temperatures and different preferred Tb within different distribution ranges would result in differences in local extinction probability. As opposed to other studies our model integrates past and present distributions verified by museum collections and ground-truthed, a quantifiable physiological parameter (preferred body temperature Tpref) and available operative temperatures in correlation to air temperatures. Data was collected for 17 species (Meroles anchietae, M. cuneirostris, M. suborbitalis, M. ctenodactylus, M. reticulatus, M. micropholidotus, M. knoxii, Pedioplanis namaquensis, P. laticeps, P. lineoocellata, P. breviceps, P. rubens, P. undata, P. inornata, P. gaerdesi, P. husabensis and Heliobolus lugubris). Our first results seem to indicate that populations of at least one of the tested species were extirpated (both predicted by the model and verified) in the hottest area of its distribution range due to increased maximum temperatures during the reproductive season since the mid-1970s. Furthermore, different extents in future extinction risk are predicted under consideration of the currently accepted climate change scenarios. It seems that Namibian Lacertidae under current conditions already live at their thermal maximum.
Kirillov, A.A. (2009) -
The helminthic communities of sand lizard from the Samara region were examined in 1996 – 2002. 10 parasite species in the reptiles were noted. Characteristics of the helminthic infracommunities and component communities of sand lizard are given. A comparative analysis of the helminthic communities of sand lizard from several districts of the territory under survey is made.
Kirillova, N.Y. & Kirillov, A.A. (2020) -
Kirmse, W. (1990) -
Kirmse, W. (1994) -
Report on the present situation of relict populations of Lacerta viridis in Brandenburg. Problems concerning the release and re-introduction of captive-bred animals are discussed.
Kirpik, M.A. & Altunoğlu, M.K. & Tanrikulu, D. (2019) -
Animal diversity of Aktaş Lake and surrounding was determined within the scope of the Aktaş Lake Management Plan Project completed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks in 2017. Aktaş Lake studies and literature data were evaluated together. As a result, 14 insecta species belonging to aquatic invertebrates, 1 exotic and invasive species belonging to Crustacea class and 24 Insecta species from terrestrial invertebrates were identified. In addition, 20 species of plant and animal plankton were identified. 6 fish (Pisces), 2 Amphibia, 5 reptiles (Reptilia), 107 birds (Aves) and 15 species of mammals (Mammalia) were identified in the natural fauna of Aktaş Lake.
Tarım ve Orman Bakanlığı, Doğa Koruma ve Milli Parklar Genel Müdürlüğü’nün 2017 yılında tamamlanan Aktaş Gölü Yönetim Planı Projesi kapsamında yapılan bu çalışmada Aktaş Gölü ve çevresindeki hayvan çeşitliliği tespit edilmeye çalışıldı. Aktaş Gölü ile ilgili yapılan çalışmalar ve literatür verileri birlikte değerlendirildi. Sonuç olarak, göl ve çevresinde sucul omurgasız hayvanlardan Crustacea sınıfına ait 1 ekzotik ve istilacı tür, 14 Insecta ve karasal omurgasızlardan 24 Insecta türü tespit edildi. Ayrıca bitkisel ve hayvansal özellikte 20 plankton türü tespit edildi. Aktaş Gölü’nün doğal faunası içerisinde yer alan 6 balık (Pisces) türü, Çift yaşamlılardan (Amphibia) 2, sürüngenlerden (Reptilia) 5, kuşlardan (Aves) 107 ve memelilerden (Mammalia) 15 sucul ve karasal omurgalı türü tespit edildi.
Kirschbaum, H.L. (2015) -
The Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus, is an opportunistic, omnivorous, lacertid lizard native to Italy and the east Adriatic coast. Multiple introduced populations of this species occur in the Mediterranean region, and P. siculus was also introduced to an urban Southern California neighborhood in 1994. In this study, we looked at the feeding ecology of California P. siculus to determine what affects it is having on the flora and fauna of its new environment. We conducted field surveys to determine the current distribution of this population and obtained voucher specimens for gut content analysis. These analyses demonstrate dietary overlap with the native Western Fence Lizard, Sceloporus occidentalis, and Southern Alligator Lizard, Elgaria multicarinata, which also occur in this neighborhood. Few native lizards were observed sympatrically with P. siculus suggesting that direct competition could be causing localized declines of these native lizards. Our study also suggests that P. siculus may prey upon native lizards. Adult P. siculus were found to cannibalize smaller individuals, suggesting that predation of native lizards is likely.
Kirschbaum, H.L. & Pauly, G.B. (2016) -
The Italian Wall Lizard, Podarcis sicula, is an opportunistic, omnivorous lizard native to Italy and the east Adriatic coast. Multiple introduced populations of this species occur in the Mediterranean region, and P. sicula was also introduced to an urban Southern California neighborhood in 1994. Over a 14 month period, we conducted regular field surveys to track changes in range of the nonnative Southern California population. We also examined the feeding ecology of California P. sicula to assess dietary overlap with native lizard species and the effects P. sicula is having on co-occurring species. During the survey period, considerable range expansion was observed. Further, the gut analyses demonstrate dietary overlap with the native Western Fence Lizard, Sceloporus occidentalis, and Southern Alligator Lizard, Elgaria multicarinata, which also occur in this neighborhood. Podarcis sicula were found to cannibalize smaller individuals, suggesting that predation upon native lizards is also likely. Few native lizards were observed sympatrically with P. sicula suggesting that direct competition and/or predation could be causing localized declines of these native lizards.
Kirstein (1933) -
Kirstein, F. (1937) -
Kis, D. (2022) -
The genus Podarcis is a group of lizards that evolved in the Mediterranean area. Lizards play an important ecological role, and due to their great taxonomic and ecological diversity, they are suitable for evolutionary and behavioral research. Dalmatian wall lizard is an autochthonous species of the coastal area of Croatia, while the Italian wall lizard is an opportunistic species that can successfully outcompete autochthonous lizard species. Sociability is one of the five main categories of personality. It is defined as the reaction of an individual to the presence or absence of conspecifics. This study aimed to investigate the differences in the sociability of the Dalmatian wall lizard and Italian wall lizard. The research was carried out on 60 males and 60 females - a total of 120 individuals, from three different locations (Knin, Sinj, Pag). The research was conducted by a three-chamber social selection test which measured several variables: the cumulative time the individual spent in the chamber with an empty cage, the cumulative time the individual spent in the middle chamber, and the cumulative time the individual spent in the chamber with the conspecific. The results of the research have shown that the Italian wall lizard is significantly more sociable than the Dalmatian wall lizard. No significant difference was found between the sexes, within the species.
Kittelmann (1976) -
Kitzler, G. (1941) -
Kjaergaard Jensen, J. (1981) -
In connection with descriptions of incubation of reptile eggs it is often stated that the time of incubation depends on the temperature (ex. PORTER 1972). BLANCHARD and BLANCHARD (1941) inform about the connection between temperature and time of birth for garter snake (Thamnopsis sirtalis), but most other information is of more general character. In this experiment it is tried to determine the connections between temperature and time of hatching for an egg-laying species: Lacerta agilis L.
Kjaergaard-Jensen, J. (1984) -
Klaptocz, A. (1913) -
Klaus, C. & Nöllert, A. & Klaus, S. (2016) -
Klausewitz, W. (1954) -
Klausewitz, W. (1964) -
Kleinstra-Semplonius, M.J. (1955) -
Klemmer, K. (1956) -
Klemmer, K. (1957) -
Klemmer, K. (1959) -
Klemmer, K. (1960) -
Klemmer, K. (1964) -
Klenina, A.A. & Bakiyev, A.G. (2022) -
Klepsch, R. (1999) -
Klepsch, R. (2019) -
In Österreich besiedelt die Zauneidechse mit Ausnahme der hochalpinen Lagen die Großlandschaften aller Bundesländer. Die Art kommt in Höhenlagen zwischen 115 und 1.700 m vor, Verbreitungsschwerpunkte finden sich in tieferen Lagen unter 500 m. Das Verbreitungsgebiet stößt im westlichen Österreich an seine südliche Arealgrenze, ansonsten schließen die österreichischen Bestände an Vorkommen in den Nachbarländern an. Die Zauneidechse stellt neben der Wald- oder Bergeidechse (Zootoca vivipara) die in Österreich häufigste und am weitesten verbreitete Eidechsenart dar. Trotz ihrer weiten Verbreitung und der Tatsache, dass die Zauneidechse vielerorts die häufigste Reptilienart darstellt, lassen sich gebietsweise starke Rückgänge der Bestände beobachten.
Klepsch, R. (2020) -
Klepsch, R. & Schweiger, S. (2020) -
Klerks, M. (2010) -
Klerks, M. (2011) -
Klerks, M. (2013) -
Kletečki, E. (1995) -
Klewen, R. (1988) -
Zwischen 1975und1987 wurden die Amphibien- und Reptilienbestände im Duisburger Stadtgebiet in teils regelmäßigen, teils unregelmäßigen Abständen kontrolliert. Die Ergebnisse wurden unter dem Gesichtspunkt populationdynamischer Prozesse ausgewertet und in Form von Verbreitungskarten und Grafiken dargestellt. Unter Zugrundelegung alter und aktueller Karten sowie von Luftbildern des Untersuchungsgebietes wird das Landschaftsbild der Stadt und seine Entwicklung erläutert und die Interpretation des aktuellen Verbreitungsbildes der einzelnen Arten vorgenommen. 11 Amphibien- und 3 Reptilienarten konnten in Duisburg nachgewiesen werden. Die Besiedlungsschwerpunkte liegen hauptsächlich im Bereich der land- und forstwirtschaftlich genutzten Flächen. Insbesondere die Molche, Kreuzkröten und Zauneidechsen vermögen auch in vorwiegend anthropogen geschaffenen Biotopen weit ins Innere der Stadt vorzudringen bzw. dort zu überdauern. Grabensysteme, Tümpel, Wasserlachen und Bahndämme sind dabei Strukturen von besonderer Bedeutung. Parkanlagen stellten sich als amphibien- und reptilienfeindlich heraus. An Bahndämmen, die nach Stillegung von Streckenabschnitten durch das städtische Grünflächenamt umgestaltet wurden, starben ganze Zauneidechsenvorkommen aus, während sie an unbeeinflußt erhalten gebliebenen Abschnitten weiterhin in individuenstarken Vorkommen nachweisbar sind. Am wenigsten vermögen Grasfrosch, Erdkröte, Waldeidechse und Blindschleiche die Bedingungen im städtischen bzw. stadtnahen Raum zu ertragen. Zahlreiche Populationen sind während der letzten zwölf Jahre erloschen. Es ist dies das Ergebnis einer Entwicklung, die bereits vor Jahrzehnten mit der Industrialisierung und Ausdehnung des Ballungsraumes begonnen hat. Die Restbestände weisen nurmehr wenige „intakte` Vorkommen auf - ein weiterer Rückgang ist zu befürchten. Zu den aktuellen Gefährdungsursachen zählt unter anderem der naturferne Gewässerausbau aus Gründen der Naherholung sowie der Bebauung letzter Freiflächen. Als wesentliche Gefährdung ist auch das Aussetzen gebietsfremder Tiere zu sehen. Insbesondere die Rotwangen-Schmuckschildkröte wurde in den letzten Jahren in zunehmendem Maße nachgewiesen. Sie kann in Molchbeständen beträchtlichen Schaden anrichten und da sie unbeschadet in unseren Breiten zu überwintern vermag, trägt sie nachweisbar zum Erlöschen von Amphibienvorkommen bei. Die Ergebnisse der vorliegenden Untersuchung haben gezeigt, daß Lurch- und Kriechtierzönosen Überlebensmöglichkeiten im Ballungsraum finden, aber äußerst sensibel selbst auf geringfügige Änderungen in ihren Lebensräumen reagieren. Strukturen, die zu einem ganz anderen Zweck geschaffen wurden, (z.B. Regenrückhaltebekken) stellen bei sachgerechter Gestaltung sehr effektive Ersatzbiotope dar. Angemessene Pflege ( = Erhaltung des aktuellen Zustands) solcher Lebensräume könnte den Bestand, zumindest von Teichmolch, Kammolch, Kreuzkröte und Zauneidechse, auf Jahrzehnte sichern.
Klewen, R. & Pastors, J. (1983) -
Kliemt, M. &/ Ortlieb, F. (2021) -
Klijnstra-Semplonius, M.J. (1955) -
Klinge, A. & Winkler, C. (2017) -
Klingelhöffer, W. (1900) -
Klingelhöffer, W. (1918) -
Klingelhöffer, W. (1923) -
Klingelhöffer, W. (1957) -
Kloor, A. (2002) -
Kloor, A. (2003) -
Kloor, A. (2006) -
Kloor, A. & Meerman, H. (2008) -
Klötzli, P. & Rosenmayr, M. (2000) -
Kluch, E. & Lác, J. & Lechovic, A. (1965) -
Kluge, E. & Blanke, I. & Lauzfer, H. & Schneeweiss, N. (2013) -
Klunzinger, C.B. (1883) -
Klunzinger, C.B. (1902) -
Klunzinger, C.B. (1905) -
Kminiak, M. (1992) -
Knauer, F. (1905) -
Knauer, F. (1909) -
Knauer, F. (1915) -
Kneller, M. (2007) -
Kneller, M. (2011) -
Report on the unsuccessful search for Timon lepidus (DAUDIN, 1802) on the occasion of a one days visit to the Portuguese island of Berlenga.
Knight, K. (2009) -
Knoblauch, A. (1907) -
Knoeffler, L.P. & Sochurek, E. (1956) -
Knötig, H. (1959) -
Knötig, H. (1964) -
Kobelt, W. (1894) -
Kober, I. (1989) -
Kober, I. (2004) -
Kober, I. (2005) -
Kober, I. (2010) -
Kober, I. (2013) -
Kober, I. (2018) -
Kober, I. (2021) -
Koc-Gür, H. & Bülbül, U. & Öztürk, I. & Kutrup, B. (2020) -
Koc, H. & Bülbül, U. & Kurnaz, M. & Eroğlu, A.I. & Kutrup, B. (2018) -
The Italian wall lizard and the Balkan wall lizard have a series of taxonomic revisions. However, their phylogenetic relationships still remain uncertain in Turkey. In the present study, we have assessed taxonomic relationships, both of Podarcis siculus and Podarcis tauricus through estimation of phylogenetic relationships among 43 and 42 specimens, respectively, using mtDNA (16 S rRNA and cytb) from great main populations in Turkey. The genetic distances among the populations of P. siculus in Turkey were very low and they were ranged from 0.2 to 1.6% in 16 S rRNA while they were ranged from 0.0% to 3.3% in cytb. On the other hand, the p-distances among the populations of P. tauricus were ranged from 0.0 to 0.6% in 16 S rRNA while they were 0.2% cytb in Turkey. Finally, most of the topologically identical trees of phylogenetic analyses and p-distances showed that monophyly was found in extant populations of P. siculus and P. tauricus. The nominate subspecies, P. s. siculus and P. t. tauricus are representatives of these lizards in Turkey.
Koc, H. & Bülbül, U. & Kutrup, B. (2018) -
The current literature and our field observations have shown that spiny-tailed lizard may also be active in the winter season. Activity of Darevskia rudis in the February was recorded for the first time in the province of Giresun, Eastern Black Sea Region, Turkey. In conclusion, we assessed that the spiny-tailed lizard could be active throughout the year due to global climate changes.
Koç, H. & Bülbül, U. & Kutrup, B. (2018) -
Koc, H. & Kutrup, B. & Bülbül, U. & Kurnaz, M. (2021) -
The spiny-tailed lizard, which has a series of taxonomic revisions, is one of the most common lizard species in Turkey. In this study, sequence data derived from three microsatellite loci (Du215, Du281, and Du323), two mito chondrial (16S rRNA and Cyt-b) genes and combined data were used to evaluate the taxonomic status of Darevskia rudis and Darevskia bithynica with new samples from all subspecies populations in Turkey. Our results indicated that the genetic variations of microsatellite loci were not specific to populations within species, and only minor differences separated D. rudis and D. bithynica populations. Furthermore, the markers we used for phylo genetic analyses (NJ, ML, MP, and BI) produced topologically similar trees based on 16S rRNA and Cyt-b while the combined data produced conflicting trees with the separate gene analyses. Finally, the basal relationships among the populations in Turkish populations D. rudis and D. bithynica were not resolved with this dataset, and we found a hard polytomy at the basis of the phylogeny.
Koc, H. & Kutrup, B. & Eroglu, O. & Bülbül, U. & Kurnaz, M. & Afan, F. & Eroğlu, A.I. (2016) -
The spiny-tailed lizard of the genus Darevskia have a series of taxonomic revisions, but still their phylogenetic relationships remain uncertain. In the present study, we have assessed taxonomic relationships among Darevskia bithynica and Darevskia rudis populations through estimation of phylogenetic relationships among 96 specimens using microsatellite DNA (Du215, Du281, Du323 and Du418 loci) and 53 specimens using mtDNA (16S rRNA and cytb) from main populations in Turkey. Although D. b. bithynica and D. r. mirabilis were separated based on the PCoA analysis at low level from other D. rudis and D. bithynica populations, the distance values of Nei’s genetic distance, Nei’s unbiased genetic distance, Fst and Linear Fst were not high among taxa in microsatellite DNA. On the other hand, our phylogenetic analyses (NJ, ML, MP and BI) did not separate D. rudis and D. bithynica populations. Finally, most of the topologically identical trees of phylogenetic analyses and microsatellite results showed that the extant populations of D. rudis and D. bithynica were found to be polytomy. Based on our molecular phylogenetic study, D. rudis complex is still ongoing revisions.
Koch, C. (1926) -
Koch, C.L. (1828) -
Koch, K. (1928) -
Koch, K. (2015) -
Kochs, F. & Braun, U. (2002) -
Kocikova, B. & Majlath, I. & Majlathova, V. (2018) -
Reptiles often serve as hosts for various endo- and ectoparasites including protozoan blood and intestinal parasites. In this study, we report the occurrence of protozoans belonging to three families: Trichomonadidae, Proteromonadidae, and Lankesterellidae, in lizard blood samples. A total of 738 individuals of 4 lizard species (Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Podarcis muralis, and Zootoca vivipara) captured from 4 European countries (Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia) were examined. One blood smear obtained in 2008 from L. agilis (Odolanów, Poland) was found to be infected with trophozoites representing three genera: Karyolysus lacazei, Tritrichomonas sp., and Proteromonas sp. Moreover, Proteromonas sp. were detected by molecular methods in another individual of Lacerta agilis exigua (Romania, Vadu), which revealed 100% similarity with the isolate of Proteromonas lacertae isolated from the American Type Culture Collection (GenBank accession number U37108). Sporozoites of Schellackia sp. were detected in blood smears from 2 individuals of L. viridis from Slovakia. Molecular detection revealed the occurrence of Schellackia sp. in 2 individuals, L. viridis (Slovakia) and Lacerta agilis erythronota (Romania) and showed 99% and 90% similarity, respectively, with isolates of Schellackialike parasites obtained from Lacerta schreiberi (GenBank acc. no. JX984675, JX984674) and Podarcis hispanica (GenBank acc. no. X984676, JQ762306, KJ18938) from Portugal and Spain. This study represents documentation of multiple infections (trophozoites of Karyolysus sp., Tritrichomonas sp., and Proteromonas sp.) detected in a sand lizard from 1/7 Poland, and the first report of Schellackia in populations of a green lizards (Slovakia) and sand lizards (Romania), as well as the first evidence of Proteromonas sp. from the Romania population of sand lizards.
Kodym, P. & Frynta, D. & Moravec, J. & Kaftan, M. & Hodková, Z. (1999) -
Koen, G. (1960) -
Koeppen, F.T. (1883) -
Köhler, C.F., Sprong, H., Fonville, M., Esser, H., Boer, W.F. de, Spek, V. van der & Spitzen-van der Sluijs, A. (2023) -
1. Understanding which factors determine tick-borne disease hazard can contribute to effective disease control. In Europe, the hazard of the pathogens Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and Anaplasma phagocytophilum is determined by local tick densities (mainly Ixodes ricinus) and the reservoir competence of the host species community. Sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) are common hosts for larvae and nymphs of I. ricinus and non-competent reservoirs for both pathogens. Consequently, high relative abundance of L. agilis is hypothesized to be associated with lower infection prevalence in nymphs. Here, we aimed to test whether this effectively occurs in natural settings. - 2. We sampled different habitat types within a heterogenous dune landscape at the Dutch coast and estimated (1) L. agilis densities, (2) host community competence, (3) the density and infection prevalence of questing I. ricinus ticks and (4) the number and infection prevalence of ticks feeding on L. agilis. - 3. Captured L. agilis had high tick burdens and contributed substantially to feeding I. ricinus larvae in their natural habitat. B. burgdorferi s.l. and A. phagocytophilum were virtually absent from feeding larvae and nymphs. - 4. The nymphal infection prevalence of both pathogens in questing ticks was lower in habitat types where L. agilis was more abundant. Hence, L. agilis strongly reduced community competence. - 5. The density of questing nymphs was higher in habitat types with denser vegetation and also varied more between habitat types than infection prevalence. As a result, nymphal density had a stronger effect on the density of infected ticks than did nymphal infection prevalence. - 6. Synthesis and applications. Coastal dune habitats favourable for L. agilis have lower densities of questing nymphs and a lower human infection hazard. These results might be applicable to similar ecosystems where L. agilis is present. From a public health perspective, this underlines the importance of preserving early successional habitat, as encroaching shrubs are associated with higher tick-borne disease hazard, and vegetation removal might be a solution to reduce hazard in coastal dunes. The high degree of spatial heterogeneity in the abundance of tickborne pathogens also poses opportunities to manage recreational activities to limit human exposure to tick-borne diseases.
Köhler, H. (1938) -
In den Skeletmuskeln der untersuchten Reptilien kommen zwei Fasertypen vor: Fasern mit Fibrillenfelderung und Fasern mit Säulchenfelderung. Die Fasern mit Fibrillenfelderung besitzen Fibrillen, die einen Durchmesser von höchstens 1,3 μ erreichen und die gleichmäßig über den Faserquerschnitt verteilt sind. In den Fasern mit Säulchenfelderung sind die Fibrillen nicht gleichmäßig über den Faserquerschnitt verteilt; sie stehe in Gruppen eng beieinander und bilden auf diese Weise „Säulchen“, die einen Durchmesser von 3,5 μ erreichen können. Eine sich vom umgebenden ungefärbten Plasma unterscheidende Säulchengrundsubstanz ist nicht vorhanden. Wohl aber zeigen die Fasern mit Säulchenfelderung erheblich breitere Plasmazwischenräume zwischen den Säulchen als die Fasern mit Fibrillenfelderung zwischen den Fibrillen. Bei allen untersuchten Reptilien kommen Fasern vor, die hinsichtlich ihrer Struktur eine Zwischenstellung zwischen den beiden Fasertypen einnehmen. Es wurde die Verteilung der beiden Fasertypen in den Muskeln einiger Reptilien untersucht. Die Fasern mit Säulchenfelderung sind in den Muskeln am häufigsten, die Dauer- oder Haltefunktionen besitzen.
Köhler, J. & Güsten, R. (2007) -
We provide the first complete list of the present and lost amphibian and reptile type specimens of the Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt and the Museum Wiesbaden Naturhistorische Landessammlung. The Darmstadt collection cur- rently houses primary types of 5 taxa (holotypes) and secondary types of addi- tional 15 taxa (paratypes). The Wiesbaden collection includes primary types of 13 taxa (8 represented by holotypes, 4 by syntypes and 1 by lectotype). Furthermore, the primary types of 6 taxa formerly housed at the Museum Wiesbaden are consid- ered lost. In several cases, we comment on the current status of the taxa present in the collections. Bufo spinulosus var. arapensis Andersson, 1908 was obviously over- looked and neglected in the literature. It is here considered a junior synonym of Chaunus spinulosus (Wiegmann, 1834). The largest specimen of the type series is designated as lectotype (MWNH 153/1). The current status of Hylambates rufus var. aubryioides Andersson, 1908, as a junior synonym of Leptopelis modestus (Werner, 1898) is rejected.
Köhler, J. & Wagner, P. & Visser, S. & Böhme, W. (2003) -
The lacertid lizard Adolfus africanus is recorded from Kakamega Forest, western Kenya, and Imatong Mountains, southern Sudan. Both localities represent first country records for the species. Kakamega Forest constitutes the easternmost locality for A. africanus which was also recorded from Cameroon. The known distribution of this rain forest species is reviewed and discussed in a biogeographical context.
Kolarov, N.T. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Polovic, L. & Dzukic, G. & Kalezic, M. (2010) -
The Mosor rock lizard (Dinarolacerta mosorensis) is a distinctly flattened endemic species that occupies discontinuously distributed rocky areas at high elevations in the Dinaric Mountains of the Balkans. The body size, age structure, longevity, survival rates and growth patterns of this species were studied using skeletochronology and back-calculation methods. The modal age was found to be 5 years for males and 6 years for females, while the maximal longevity was found to be 9 years in both sexes. The age and body length were positively correlated in both sexes. Both sexes reached maturity at 3 years, with a snout-vent length of 53.3 and 56.5 mm for males and females, respectively. The growth coefficient had significantly higher values in females (0.54) than in males (0.40). The asymptotic size of females was lower (66.01 mm) than that of males (70.82 mm). The growth rate of females decreased soon after maturation whereas males continued to grow for a longer time. Juveniles had lower survival rates than adults (0.5 vs 0.7). The effective age at maturity (13.5 months) was significantly greater than that for the small lacertid lizards living at the low altitudes of a Mediterranean climate, greater than but within the range of values predicted for those living at low altitudes of a temperate climate, and lower than but within the range of values predicted for montane small lacertids.
Kolbe, J.J. & Lavin, B.R. & Burke, R.L. & Rugiero, L. & Capula, M. & Luiselli, L. (2012) -
Tests of invasion success often require comparisons between introduced and native populations, but determining the native-range sources for introduced populations can be difficult. Molecular markers can help clarify the geographic extent of native-range sources, helping to identify which populations are appropriate for comparative studies. The Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus) was introduced multiple times to the United States with extant populations in California, Kansas, New Jersey, and New York. We used phylogeographic analysis of mtDNA sequences (cytb gene) for individuals sampled from these introduced populations and across the native range to identify the number of independent introductions and the location of the source populations. Haplotypes sampled from introduced populations were nested within three geographically distinct, well-supported clades that together encompassed a large portion of the native range. Combining these phylogeographic results with documentation of the introductions revealed putative sources: California individuals are derived from Sicily; Kansas and New York populations are from Tuscany near Florence; and the New Jersey population is likely from the Adriatic coastal region, but a more specific locality is not possible. The pet trade dominates the invasion pathway for P. siculus introductions to the US. The genetically and geographically diverse sampling of its native range may be driven by the desire for phenotypic variety in the pet trade, a hypothesis that needs future testing.
Kolenda, K. & Skawinski, T. & Majtyka, T. & Majtyka, M. & Kusmierek, N. & Starzecka, A. & Jablonski, D. (2020) -
The common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, is a widely distributed European lizard which has been often introduced across the continent, including north of the continuous species range. Three such populations were recently discovered in the Strzelin Hills in Poland, but no information is available about their origin. We studied the morphological variation, demographic structure and ecology of these populations, as well as their possible origin based on cytochrome b mtDNA sequences. Between 2011 and 2019, the lizards were annually active from the first half of March to mid-October. Males attained significantly larger snout-vent length than females and had relatively larger heads. Almost half of all captured individuals exhibited at least one pileus scale anomaly. Analysis of colour polymorphism revealed the occurrence of three morphs: white, white-red and red. The oldest lizards reached the age of 8 years. These parameters of Polish populations do not deviate from those of other populations from similar latitudes. Molecular analysis revealed that they belong to the most common haplotype of Central European haplogroup I of the Central Balkan clade. This haplotype is widely distributed across the Czech Republic and Slovakia; however, genetic data do not allow determination of the exact origin of the Polish population. Human-mediated introduction from the closest localities, the Czech Republic or Slovakia, is probable but the relict status cannot at present be excluded.
Kolenda, K. & Wieczorek, M. & Najbar, A. & Najbar, B. & Skawinski, T. (2017) -
Koleska, D. & Hablonski, D. (2015) -
Koleska, D. & Kulma, M. & Vrabec, V. (2017) -
Koleska, D. & Svobodova, V. & Husak, T. (2016) -
Koleska, D. & Vrabec, V. & Kulma, M. (2017) -
Kollar, R. (1986) -
The author explains the function of the `Paarungsmarsch` of Podarcis m. muralis: - the coordination of the movements of the male and the female - a guidance for the male at the body of the female - an important element of courtship behavior of the receptive female The interpretation of similar behavior patterns in other genera is discussed.
Kollar, R. (1990) -
Kolleck, J. & Vorreier, E. & Wöhler, S. & Rehfeld, D. (2018) -
Koller, R. (2024) -
Kolling, S. (2011) -
Kolling, S. & Lenz, S. & Hahn, G. (2008) -
Kolnberger, I. (1971) -
Sensory cells of the vomero-nasal (Jacobson`s) organ ofRana (Amphibia),Vipera, Gymnodactylus, Hemidactylus (Reptilia), andApodemus andTupaia (Mammalia) resemble these cells in reptilian species so far investigated. They differ from nasal olfactory receptors in several characteristics: their dendrites bear no cilia but contain centrioles and precursor bodies of cilia. They also contain considerable amounts of agranular endoplasmic reticulum with regularly-arranged membranes. 2. Supporting cells of the vomero-nasal organ generally show a rather low to moderate secretory activity, when compared with nasal supporting cells, and bear cilia inRana in contrast to reptiles and mammals. 3. Measurements of the distance separating dendrites and of their diameter show greatest receptor density inVipera andLacerta (106 − 1.2 × 106 receptors/mm2) and lowest density inTupaia (25000/mm2). 4. In the vomero-nasal mucosa ofTupaia electron-dense dendrites are observed which might be degenerated. In reptiles, agranular endoplasmic reticulum in many olfactory sensory cell perikarya shows a definite affinity for binding osmium. The question of whether this reaction reflects functional activity and the relation of the reaction to degenerative processes are discussed.
The use of horseradish peroxidase and lanthanum nitrate as tracers shows that the intercellular space in the vomero-nasal organ is accessible to diffusion of substances from the surface of the epithelium. There is no belt of tight junctions connecting sensory and supporting cell apices. Neither do gap junctions occur. Instead cell membranes in this region occur in parallel and are separated by about 80–100 Å. 2. Experiments with horseradish peroxidase indicate that the typical vesicles of the apices of the olfactory sensory cells in the vomero-nasal organ are not formed by pinocytosis. 3. The separation of the apical membranes of the receptor and supporting cells in the vomero-nasal organ was demonstrated by staining the preparations with Bi-J and E-PTA. In these preparations and in Zn-J-OsO4 stained sections no interreceptor contacts could be identified.
Kolobaev, N.N. & Trilikauskas, L.A. (2003) -
Short history of herpetofaunistic research in the basin of Bureya River (Kha- barovsk Territory and Amur Province) is given. New data collected by the authors af- ter 1998, as well as some unpublished materials of field trips, taking place in 1992- 2001, are presented. The list of amphibians and reptiles (9 species), with an informa- tion on localities, numbers, distribution, ecology, and external morphology is given. Possible changes in local herpetofauna after the establishment of the Bureya Reservoir are forecasted.
Колобаев Н.Н., Триликаускас Л.А. (2003) -
Kolodziej, K. (2017) -
Kolodziej, K. (2020) -
Kolodziej, K. & Cenker, C. (2018) -
Kolodziej, K. & Cenker, C. (2020) -
Kolodziej, K. & Prokosch, P. (2018) -
Kolombatović, J. (1886) -
Kolombatović, J. (1888) -
Kolombatović, J. (1904) -
Kolora, S.R. & Faria, R. & Weigert, A. & Schaffer, S. & Grimm, A. & Henle, K. & Sahyoun, A.H. & Stadler, P.F. & Nowick, K. & Bleidorn, C. & Schlegel, M. (2017) -
We sequenced the mitochondrial genome of the Western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) using Illumina technology and additional Sanger sequencing. The assembled 17 086 bp mitogenome had a GC content of 40.32% and consisted of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes, and one control region (CR), with a gene order identical to the chordate consensus. In addition, we re-sequenced the mitogenome of the closely related Eastern green lizard L. viridis using the same techniques as for L. bilineata. The mitogenomes of L. bilineata and L. viridis showed a sequence identity of 94.4% and 99.9%, respectively, relative to the previously published L. viridis mitogenome. The phylogenetic reconstruction based on 17 Lacertinae mitogenomes using Anolis carolinensis as the outgroup supported L. bilineata and its sister species L. viridis as distinct lineages.
Kolora, S.R.R. & Moselli Gysi, D. & Schaffer, S. & Grimm-Seyfarth, A. & Szabolcs, M. & Faria, R. & Henle, K. & Stadler, P.F. & Schlegel, M. & Nowick, K. (2021) -
The European green lizards of the Lacerta viridis complex consist of two closely related species, L. viridis and L. bilineata that split less than 7 million years ago in the presence of gene flow. Recently, a third lineage, referred to as the “Adriatic” was described within the L. viridis complex distributed from Slovenia to Greece. However, whether gene flow between the Adriatic lineage and L. viridis or L. bilineata has occurred and the evolutionary processes involved in their diversification are currently unknown. We hypothesized that divergence occurred in the presence of gene flow between multiple lineages and involved tissue-specific gene evolution. In this study we sequenced the whole genome of an individual of the Adriatic lineage and tested for the presence of gene flow amongst L. viridis, L. bilineata and Adriatic. Additionally, we sequenced transcriptomes from multiple tissues to understand tissue-specific effects. The species tree supports that the Adriatic lineage is a sister taxon to L. bilineata. We detected gene flow between the Adriatic lineage and L. viridis suggesting that the evolutionary history of the L. viridis complex is likely shaped by gene flow. Interestingly, we observed topological differences between the autosomal and Z-chromosome phylogenies with a few fast evolving genes on the Z-chromosome. Genes highly expressed in the ovaries and strongly co-expressed in the brain experienced accelerated evolution presumably contributing to establishing reproductive isolation in the Lacerta viridis complex.
Kolora, S.R.R. & Weigert, A. & Saffari, A. & Kehr, S. & Beatriz, M. & Costa, W. & Spröer, C. & Indrischek, H. & Chintalapati, M. & Lohse, K. & Doose, G. & Overmann, J. & Bunk, B. & Bleidorn, C. & Grimm-Seyfarth, A. & Henle, K. & Nowick, K. & Faria, R. & Stadler, P.F. & Schlegel, M. (2018) -
Background Lacerta viridis and L. bilineata are sister species of European green lizards (eastern and western clades respectively), which until recently were grouped together as the L. viridis complex. Genetic incompatibilities were observed between lacertid populations through crossing experiments, which led to the delineation of two separate species within the L. viridis complex. The population history of these sister species and processes driving divergence are unknown. We constructed high quality de novo genome assemblies for both L. viridis and L. bilineata through Illumina and PacBio sequencing, with annotation support provided from transcriptome sequencing of several tissues. To estimate gene flow between the two species and identify factors involved in reproductive isolation, we studied their evolutionary history, identified genomic rearrangements, detected signature of selection on non-coding RNA and protein-coding genes. Findings Here we show that the gene flow was primarily unidirectional from L. bilineata to L. viridis after their split at least 1.15 Mya. We detected positive selection of the non-coding repertoire; mutations in transcription factors; accumulation of divergence through inversions; selection on genes involved in neural development, reproduction and behavior, as well as in UV-response possibly driven by sexual selection, whose contribution to reproductive isolation between these lacertid species need to be further evaluated. Conclusion The combination of short and long sequence reads resulted in one of the most complete lizard genome assemblies. The characterization of a diverse array of genomic features provided valuable insights into the demographic history of divergence among European green lizards, as well as key species differences, some of which are candidates that could have played a role in speciation. In addition, our study generated valuable genomic resources that can be used to address conservation related issue in lacertids.
Komissarov, A. & Korchagin, V. & Kliver, S. & Dobrynin, P. & Semyenova, S. & Vergun, A. & O`Brien, S: & Ryskov, A. (2016) -
The first complete mitochondrial genome sequence of parthenogenetic Caucasian rock lizard Darevskia unisexualis (Lacertidae family) is determined by hybrid assembly with Illumina HiSeq and PacBio RS II platforms. The circular 21.4 kbp mitogenome contains 13 protein-coding genes, 12S and 16S rRNA genes, 20 tRNAs, two pseudogenized tRNAs, and one long tandem repeats with 4.1 kbp length formed by 59 bp monomer repeated x70.6 times located before control region. This finding represents a new example of mitogenome variation in lizards of hybrid origin, providing fundamental data for following study of a unique hybridization system formed by parthenogenetic and bisexual species in the mountain steppe of central Armenia.
Komposch, B. (2004) -
Konc, K. (2020) -
Kong, S. (2022) -
Asexuality in vertebrates is often generated via hybridization, but is it a rare product of pervasive hybridization or a common product of rare hybridization? Freitas et al. show that hybridization is frequent among the sexual species of Darevskia, although the crossings between parents of the asexual hybrids are undetected. This study illustrates that hybridization is not extraordinary in nature, and thus scalable phylogenetic network inference methods, rather than phylogenetic trees, are needed to accurately represent the true evolutionary history.
König, R. (1958) -
Konstantin, A. & Rogovin, D. & Semenov, V. & Shenbrot, G.I. (2001) -
Konte, T. & Pipan, Ž. & Kostanjšek, R. & Lužnik, M. & Turjak, M. & Kramberger, P. & Bordjan, D. & Jazbec, K. & Uhan, J. & Gorjan, A. & Čuden, I. & Krofel, M. & Petkovska, V. & Slavikovski, A. & Mirt, T. & Žagar, A. & Remžgar, T. & Cipot, M. & Vinko, D. & Luštrik, R. (2006) -
Koo, K.S. & OH, H.S. (2013) -
To identify the biological characteristics of Wolter lizard (Takydromus wolteri), this study was conducted from March 2011 to August 2012 in the areas of Geumoreum located in Hangyeong-myeon, and Saebyeoloreum located in Aewol-eup and in the zoological laboratory in Jeju National University, South Korea. Food source, enemies, activity period, breeding period, spawning period, spawning size in a clutch, biological traits of eggs and hatching periods were investigated. As a result of the study, it was found that T. wolteri eats Gryllidae, Araneina, Orthoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera, but not Coleoptera, Formicidae, Oligochaeta. By observing the vicinities of T. wolteri habitats, it was seen that the natural enemies of T. wolteri were Elaphe dione, Amphiesma vibakari ruthveni, Sibynophis chinensis, Rhabdophis tigrinus, Gloydius ussuriensis, Corvus macrorhynchos, Streptopelia orientalis, Falco tinnunculus, Pica pica sericea, Lanius bucephalus, Hypsipetes amaurotis. Activities started in mid-March and hibernation started between late November and early December. Mating period was seen to run between May to June, breeding was May to August, and spawning was June toAugust. The average weight of spawned eggs (n = 12) was 0.3g; size was 9.5 × 7.2 mm; and the average fecundity of the clutch was 5 (with range 3~7). Incubation period was 18~20 days. The results would be useful as the necessary material for preparing conservation and management plans for T. wolteri habitats that depend on the changes in the habitat environment.
구교성 오홍식 (2013) -
이 연구는 줄장지뱀(Takydromus wolteri)의 생물학적 특징을 밝히기 위하여 2011년 3월부터 2012년 8월까지 제주특별자치도 제주시 한경면 금악리에 있는 금오름과 제주시 애월읍 새별오름 및 제주대학교 동물학 실험실에서 이루어졌다. 생물학적 특성으로는 먹이원, 천적, 활동기간, 교미기, 산란기, 한배산란수 및 산란된 알의 형태적 특성과 부화기간 등을 조사하였다. 조사결과, 귀뚜라미류, 거미류, 메뚜기류, 파리류, 벌류, 나비류 등 다양한 절지동물을 포식하는 것이 관찰되었으나, 딱정벌레류와 개미류, 지렁이류 등은 포식하지 않는 것으로 나타났다. 줄장지뱀의 천적의 가능성 있는 동물로는 누룩뱀, 대륙유혈목이, 비바리뱀, 유혈목이, 쇠살모사 등 파충류들과 큰부리까마귀, 멧비둘기, 황조롱이, 까치, 때까치, 직박구리 등의 조류가 서식지 주변에서 관찰되었다. 활동은 3월 중순경에 시작하였고, 11월말이나 12월초에 동면에 들어가기 시작하는 것으로 나타났다. 교미기는 5-6월, 번식기는 5-8월, 산란기는 6-8월이었다. 실험실 환경에서 줄장지뱀의 일일 활동공간을 조사한 결과, 대부분의 시간을 나뭇가지 위에서 보내는 것으로 나타났다. 한배산란수는 평균 5개(범위 3-7), 알(n=12)의 무게는 평균 0.30g, 장경과 단경은 각각 9.50mm와 7.20mm였으며, 부화기간은 18~20일이었다. 이 연구결과는 줄장지뱀의 서식지 보호와 관리방안을 마련하는데 필요한 중요한 자료가 될 것이라 판단된다.
Kooij, J. van der (2001) -
In this third paper on the herpetofauna of Oman, three families are treated: eleven Lacertidae, six Scincidae and one varanid. New records, notes on ecology and localities are combined with data from literature.
Kopena, R. (2011) -
Predation is one of the major selection pressures that determine the behaviour of animals (Lima 1988). But the predation risk of a specimen can depend on a lot of factors and the animals can compensate their behaviour fitting to the situation and have very flexible escape behaviour. Environmental and inside factors equally can infuence the decision of the prey when and where escape. In our study we testing int he field whether among the sex, season, microhabitat type, refuge distance and escape angle which are the real important factors on the antipredator behaviour of Lacerta schreiberi. We found that the inside factors (sex, season) have not any effect for the escape behaviour, solely the environmental factors have influence for the approach distance. In herbal substrate approach distance depend on the refuge distance but there is no relationship between this two distance on rock substrateAnalysing the effect of interaction of the refuge distance and escape angle for the approach distance we found if the animal is close to the refuge, they permit the predator close to them independent on escape angle, if the escape angle is high the lizards permit the predator close independent on the refuge distance, but if the escape angle is low and the refuge is far the animals begin escape early.
Kopena, R. (2017) -
El objetivo principal de la tesis es estudiar la función, evolución y mantenimiento de las señales sexuales múltiples que utilizan el lagarto verdinegro (Lacerta schreiberi) en procesos de selección sexual, y cómo la presión de la selección natural sobre estas señales afecta a las estrategias antidepredatorias. Capítulo I. Se investigó si el sexo, condición reproductora y el ambiente afectan al comportamiento de escape. Encontramos que los machos no compensan un mayor riesgo debido a la búsqueda de pareja y señales sexuales conspicuas. Por el contrario, las estrategias antidepredatorias sólo dependen del entorno físico y la ubicación relativa del depredador y el refugio. Capítulos II-IV. Se investigó las relaciones entre antioxidantes, sistema inmunológico y señales sexuales múltiples de los machos. Encontramos que: ¿ La suplementación en la dieta de carotenoides aumenta las señales visuales, pero no estimula el sistema inmune (respuesta inmune inducida por LPS y PHA). Sin embargo, los carotenoides pueden tener relación con la salud aumentando la condición corporal. ¿ Los machos que sufren una activación inmune por LPS aumentan la intensidad de algunas señales visuales cuando tienen suplementos en la dieta de vitamina E. Estos machos sufren un desafío relevante y podrían estar tratando de maximizar el fitness aumentando la intensidad de la señal actual ya que las expectativas de supervivencia y reproducción futura son bajas. ¿ La suplementación con vitamina E aumenta la respuesta inmune inducida por PHA, y, además, resulta en un aumento del contenido de vitamina E en las señales químicas. ¿ Existen diferencias entre años en los efectos de la suplementación de vitamina E sobre las señales visuales. Esto puede deberse a diferentes condiciones climáticas que suponen diferentes desafíos para los machos cuando desarrollan las señales. El contenido de vitamina E en las secreciones femorales podría ser una señal estable del estado antioxidante, mientras que el estado de salud podría estar relacionado con una o más señales visuales dependientes del ambiente. Qué señal indica la calidad del macho dependerá de qué señal sea más fiable en cada ambiente. Esto supondría la existencia de elección de pareja flexible por las hembras. Capítulo V. Se examinó si el tamaño del área de campeo y el solapamiento entre áreas pueden revelar las relaciones sociales y comportamiento de apareamiento. Encontramos que los machos dominantes usan áreas más grandes, probablemente tratando de aumentar el éxito reproductivo al solapar y aparearse con más hembras. Los machos menos dominantes usan áreas más pequeñas y prefieren guardar parejas, accediendo a menos hembras pero de mayor calidad. Las hembras que utilizan áreas más grandes solapan con más machos, pero las hembras que solapan con machos con más vitamina E en sus señales químicas (de alta calidad) usan áreas más pequeñas. Las diferentes estrategias de apareamiento de los machos pueden ser estrategias evolutivamente estables que proporcionan beneficios para ambos tipos de machos. Un éxito reproductivo similar podría mantener la honestidad del sistema de señales sexuales múltiples. Capítulo VI. Se investigó la función de la coloración de las hembras. Encontramos que esta coloración puede indicar su estado de salud y el número y calidad de sus crías. Esto apoyaría la existencia de una elección de pareja mutua, que puede tener un papel en la evolución de la coloración en hembras. Sin embargo, debido a que las bases de la coloración son similares en ambos sexos, no se excluye la correlación genética intersexual. Se concluye que tanto las diferentes estrategias de apareamiento de los machos, la elección de pareja flexible dependiente del ambiente y la correlación genética intersexual pueden tener papeles en la función, evolución y mantenimiento de múltiples señales sexuales en L. schreiberi.
Kopena, R. & Herczeg, G. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2015) -
Antipredator escape behaviour varies with several well-established sources of variation ranging from the physical environment to reproductive status. However, the relative roles of these sources are rarely assessed together. We measured (i) the distance to the nearest refuge that Schreiber’s green lizards, Lacerta schreiberi, maintained before an attack (refuge distance) and (ii) the distance lizards allowed a simulated predator to approach before fleeing (flight initiation distance, FID). Refuge distance was unaffected by studied variables. However, FID was positively related to refuge distance on grassy, but not on rocky substrates. Furthermore, refuge distance and escape angle interacted in a substrate-independent manner: lizards allowed predators close when refuges were close or when lizards had to flee towards the predator. In contrast, neither mating season nor sex affected FID. We suggest that the escape strategy of L. schreiberi is determined more by the physical environment than by sex or reproductive condition.
Kopena, R. & López, P. & Majlathova, V. & Martin, J. (2020) -
Females often have chromatic patterns that differ from those of males. The evolution and function of female coloration is lessknown than those of males. Female ornaments can result from non-adaptive intersexual genetic correlation, but they may alsosignal female quality, health state, or potential fecundity. We examined whether the spectral characteristics of the sexuallydichromatic coloration of female Iberian green lizards (Lacerta schreiberi) correlate with their condition, parasite load (ticks,hemoparasites andBorreliainfection) and the inflammatory response, and predict reproductive investment and offspring quality.Females with more intense UV-blue throat structural coloration and with more intense carotenoid-dependent yellow chests hadless hemoparasites, and females with more saturated green dorsal coloration had lower tick loads. Also, females with greenerbacks seemed less prone toBorrelia burgdorferis. l. infection. Surprisingly, in females not infected withBorrelia,therewasanegative relationship between tick load and carotenoid content in the chest, which was not obvious in infected females.Characteristics of the females’coloration may also predict several variables of reproductive investment, such as egg laying date,incubation time, hatchling number, hatching success, and body size and condition of their hatchlings. Because this is apolygynandric species and mating investment is costly for males, we suggest that males might use female coloration to selectpotential mates. However, we can expect that the physiological basis of coloration is similar in both sexes and, therefore, geneticcorrelation and sexual selection may act synergistically.
Kopena, R. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2009) -
In spite of the importance of chemical signals (pheromones) in the reproductive behaviour of lizards, only a few studies have examined the role of specific chemical compounds as sexual signals. The secreted chemicals vary widely between species but whether this variation reflects phylogenetic or environmental differences remains unclear. Based on mass spectra, obtained by GC-MS, we found 40 lipophilic compounds in femoral gland secretions of male green lizards (Lacerta viridis), including several steroids, alpha-tocopherol, and esters of n-C16 to n-C20 carboxylic acids, and minor components such as alcohols between C12 and C20, squalene, three lactones and one ketone. We compared these chemicals with those previously found in other closely related green lizard species, and discussed how phylogenetical differences and/or environmental conditions could be responsible for the differential presence of chemicals in different lizard species.
Kopena, R. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2014) -
Carotenoid-based sexual ornaments are widespread, but the role of carotenoids as honest signalers in the trade-off between coloration and antioxidant protection remains controversial. It has been suggested that the function of carotenoids might not be an antioxidant per se, but that colorful carotenoids may indirectly reflect the levels of nonpigmentary antioxidants, such as melatonin or vitamin E. We experimentally fed male Iberian green lizards (Lacerta schreiberi) additional carotenoids or vitamin E alone, or a combination of carotenoids and vitamin E dissolved in soybean oil, whereas a control group only received soybean oil. We examined the effects of the dietary supplementations on characteristics of lizard sexual coloration and of the chemical profile of femoral gland secretions. Results indicated that both carotenoids and vitamin E in the diet increased the expression of some visual signals (head and chest, but not dorsum) in comparison to controls. However, different traits were differentially affected, and in many cases, the addition of vitamin E, alone or in combination with carotenoids, had a greater effect on the expression of coloration than the addition of carotenoids alone, even for carotenoid-dependent ornaments. Our results support the idea that other nonpigmentary antioxidants, such as vitamin E, are needed in addition to carotenoids to increase the expression of coloration of L. schreiberi lizards. Therefore, coloration may only indirectly reflect the levels of nonpigmentary antioxidants. In contrast, an increase in dietary nonpigmentary antioxidant vitamin E was directly reflected in the chemical signals. Because of an observed concordance between visual and chemical signals, we suggest that both may be used in different contexts albeit conveying similar messages in different sensory channels.
Kopena, R. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2017) -
Honesty of sexual signals demands a link between the signal and fitness of the signalers, which can be based on the costs of the signal and trade-offs between signal development and essential physiological functions, such as the immune defense or the antioxidant system. We experimentally challenged the immune system of male lizards Lacerta schreiberi with a bacterial antigen (lipopolysaccharide; LPS). We explored whether the immune activation influenced structural- and pigment-based visual signals and chemical signals. Furthermore, we examined the interactive effects of the immune activation with a vitamin E dietary supplementation, as this vitamin has important antioxidant functions in an immune challenged situation. Contrary to expected, lizards that suffered an immune challenge alone did not decrease the brightness or saturation of visual signals, and even, when challenged lizards had supplementary vitamin E, they were able to increase saturation of UV-blue throat coloration. Similarly, vitamin E supplementation allowed challenged males to maintain high levels of secretion of this vitamin in chemical signals. Males with an immune challenge would have low long-term expectatives of survival and future reproduction and, therefore, these challenged males, especially those with supplementary resources (vitamin E), might try to maximize their current fitness by investing in costly sexual signals, instead of compensating the negative physiological effects of the immune activation. Surprisingly, vitamin E alone did not affect structural and/or melanin-based coloration, but decreased carotenoid-based coloration, which was opposite to a previous experiment when climatic conditions in the year of study were more favorable. This might be explained if females showed flexible mate choice, selecting the type of signals that more reliably indicate male quality under different environmental circumstances.
Kopena, R. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2021) -
Kopena, R. & Martin, J. & López, P. & Herczeg, G. (2011) -
Background In spite that chemoreception is important in sexual selection for many animals, such as reptiles, the mechanisms that confer reliability to chemical signals are relatively unknown. European green lizards (Lacerta viridis) have substantial amounts of α-tocopherol ( = vitamin E) in their femoral secretions. Because vitamin E is metabolically important and can only be attained from the diet, its secretion is assumed to be costly. However, its role in intraspecific communication is unknown. Methodology/Principal Findings Here, we experimentally show that male European green lizards that received a dietary supplement of vitamin E increased proportions of vitamin E in their femoral secretions. Furthermore, our experiments revealed that females preferred to use areas scent marked by males with experimentally increased vitamin E levels in their secretions. Finally, female preferences were stronger when vitamin E differences between a pair of males` secretions were larger. Conclusions/Significance Our results demonstrate that female green lizards are able to discriminate between males based on the vitamin E content of the males` femoral secretions. We suggest that the possible cost of allocating vitamin E to secretions, which might be dependent on male quality, may be a mechanism that confers reliability to scent marks of green lizards and allows their evolution as sexual signals.
Kopena, R. & Martin, J. & López, P. & Majláth, I. & Majláthová, V. (2021) -
To understand the spread of parasite and the persistence of infection in an ecological environment, it is essential to investigate their transmission possibilities. Vertical transmission of pathogens from mother to offspring is a fundamental opportunity, notwithstanding a relatively under-researched topic, especially in wildlife animals. We studied whether there is vertical transmission of a haemogregarinid blood parasite of Iberian green lizard (Lacerta schreiberi). To study infection of mothers, embryos and freshly hatched juveniles, their blood smears and molecular analyses of their tail tissue were used. Examining blood smears, seventy-one percent of females were found to be infected, but molecular analyses of all mothers showed positive results for the blood parasite. Based on molecular data the parasite was identified as a Karyolysus species. In contrast, no parasite was found in the blood smears of the freshly hatched juveniles, and we could not detect Karyolysus in the embryos or tail tissue of offspring using molecular methods either. Based on our results, vertical transmission of Karyolysus blood parasites is unlikely in the Iberian green lizard.
Kopij, G. (2017) -
Koponen, S. & Hietakangas, H. (1972) -
Köppen, T. (1883) -
Koppetsch, T. & Sànchez Romero, G. (2023) -
Kopstein, F. & Wettstein, O. (1920) -
Körbel, A. (2023) -
Körber, U. (1984) -
Korchagin, V.I. & Badaeva, T.N. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Darevsky, I.S. & Ryskov, A.P. (2007) -
Populations of parthenogenetic lizards of the genus Darevskia consist of genetically identical animals, and represent a unique model for studying the molecular mechanisms underlying the variability and evolution of hypervariable DNA repeats. As unisexual lineages, parthenogenetic lizards are characterized by some level of genetic diversity at microsatellite loci. We cloned and sequenced a number of (GATA)n microsatellite loci of Darevskia unisexualis. PCR products from these loci were also sequenced and the degree of intraspecific polymorphism was assessed. Among the five (GATA)n loci analysed, two (Du215 and Du281) were polymorphic. Cross-species analysis of Du215 and Du281 indicate that the priming sites at the D. unisexualis loci are conserved in the bisexual parental species, D. raddei and D. valentini. Sequencing the PCR products amplified from Du215 and Du281 and from monomorphic Du323 showed that allelic differences at the polymorphic loci are caused by microsatellite mutations and by point mutations in the flanking regions. The haplotypes identified among the allelic variants of Du281 and among its orthologues in the parental species provide new evidence of the cross-species origin of D. unisexualis. To our knowledge, these data are the first to characterize the nucleotide sequences of allelic variants at microsatellite loci within parthenogenetic vertebrate animals.
Korchagin, V.I. & Churikov, N.A. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Sevastyanova, G.A. & Filippovich, Y.B. & Ryskov, A.P. (2004) -
Hypervariable mini- and microsatellites represent the most widespread and universal system of molecular markers and are widely used in population and evolutional biology, genomic marking, paternity determination, and medico-biological studies [1, 2]. These repeats are classified with the most instable regions of eukaryotic genomes and are characterized by the highest mutation rates reported for genetic loci [3, 4]. The studies of individual mini- and microsatellite loci showed that changes in them significantly vary depending on the species, repeat type, alleles, age, and sex. However, the genesis of mini- and microsatellite loci, intensively studied in the human [5] and some other bisexual species [6], practically has not been studied in species with clonal type of reproduction. Obligate parthenogenetic reptiles, whose reproduction system implies clonal reproducing of maternal genotype in a series of generations, is a unique model system for monitoring of genetic variability in loci with increased mutation activity [7]. Earlier, multilocus DNA fingerprinting was used to study variability of several types of mini- and microsatellite DNA markers in four parthenogenetic species of the genus Darevskia ( D. dahli, D. armeniaca, D. unisexualis , and D. rostombekovi ) [8‐11]. It was shown that genetic heterogeneity of parthenogenetic species with respect to some microsatellite markers may be detected against the background of species-specific DNA fingerprints. The most variable were the loci that contained (TCC) n , (TCT) n , and (GATA) n microsatellites in D. unisexualis genome [8, 9, 12‐14]. DNA fingerprints of parthenogenetic D. unisexualis families demonstrated high frequency of mutations for these loci already in the firstgeneration progeny [9, 14]. Furthermore, mutant (GATA) n fingerprint phenotypes were also detected in the progeny of population D. unisexualis samples. This finding is indicative of the mutant nature of genotypic diversity of D. unisexualis populations with respect to (GATA) n loci. However, the molecular nature and mechanisms of occurrence of these mutations remain obscure. It is conceivable that certain progress in this field may be reached with the use of genetic engineering studies of variable loci. In this study, we for the first time cloned and sequenced one variable locus of D. unisexualis genome and revealed the nature of structural variations of its allele variants. Total cell DNA was isolated form blood of adult D. unisexualis by standard phenol‐chloroform method using protein kinase K. DNA was hydrolyzed with endonuclease Sau 3A (Amersham) until complete degradation and ligated with the pUC12 vector, treated with Bam H1 restriction endonuclease using standard procedure. The ligase mixture was used to transform XL-1 Blue E. coli cells (Stratagene). The clonotheque obtained was then used for searching for recombinant clones containing (GATA) n microsatellites. The screening of approximately 1000 recombinant clones using
Korchagin, V.I. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Omelchenko, A.V. & Darevsky, I.S. & Ryskov, A.P. & Tokarskaya, O.N. (2004) -
The genesis of mini- and microsatellite loci, which is under extensive study in humans and some other bisexual species, has been virtually overlooked in species with clonal mode of reproduction. Earlier, using multilocus DNA fingerprinting, we have examined variability of some mini- and microsatellite DNA markers in parthenogenetic lizards from the genus Darevskia. In particular, mutant (GATA)n-restriction DNA fragments were found in Darevskia unisexualis. In the present study, we examined intraspecific polymorphism of three cloned loci of D. unisexualis—Du323, Du215, and Du281—containing (GATA)7GAT(GATA)2, GAT(GATA)9, and (GATA)10TA(GATA) microsatellite clusters, respectively. Different levels of intrapopulation and interpopulation variability of these loci were found. Locus Du281 showed the highest polymorphism—(six allelic variants in the sample of 68 DNA specimens). Three alleles were found for locus Du215. The Du323 locus was electrophoretically invariant. The primers chosen for loci Du323, Du215, and Du281 were also used for PCR analysis of homologous loci in two presumptive parental bisexual species, D. valentini and D. nairensis. The PCR products of the corresponding loci of the parental species had approximately the same size (200 bp) as their counterparts in D. unisexualis, but the polymorphism levels of the paternal, maternal, and hybrid species were shown to be somewhat different. These data on the structure of the D. unisexualis loci provide a possibility to study genetic diversity in the parthenogenetic species D. unisexualis and other related unisexual and bisexual species of this genus, which can provide new information on the origin of parthenogenetic species and on the phylogenetic relationships in the genus Darevskia. These data can also be used for resolving problems of marking the lizard genome, which is still poorly studied.
Корчагин B.И., Мартиросян И.А., Омельченко А.В., Даревский И.С., Рысков А.П., Токарская О.Н. (2004) -
Проблема генезиса мини- и микросателлитных локусов, интенсивно изучаемая на человеке и некоторых других двуполых видах, практически не исследована на видах с клональным типом размножения. Ранее с помощью мультилокусного ДНК-фингерпринтинга нами впервые была изучена изменчивость некоторых мини- и микросателлитных маркеров ДНК у партеногенетических ящериц рода Darevskia. В частности, у Darevskia unisexualis были обнаружены мутантные (GATA)n-pecrриктные фрагменты ДНК в фингерпринтных спектрах партеногенетических потомков. В настоящей работе проведен анализ внутривидового полиморфизма трех клонированных локусов D. unisexualis - Du323, Du215 и Du281, содержащих (GATA)7GAT(GATA)2, GAT(GATA)9 и (GATA)10TA(GATA) микросателлитные кластеры соответственно. Обнаружен разный уровень внутри- и межпопуляционной изменчивости исследованных локусов. Наиболее полиморфным - шесть аллельных вариантов (выборка из 68 образцов ДНК) - оказался локус Du281. Три аллельных варианта показаны для локуса Du215. Электрофоретически инвариантным оказался локус Du323. Праймеры, подобранные для локусов Du323, Du215 и Du281, были также использованы для ПЦР-анализа гомологичных локусов двух предполагаемых родительских двуполых видов D. valentini и D. nairensis. Показано, что ПЦР-продукты соответствующих локусов родительских видов имеют примерно такие же размеры (~200 пн), что иуО. unisexualis, но по уровню полиморфизма выявлены определенные различия между отцовским, материнским и гибридным видами. Полученные данные о структуре локусов D. unisexualis позволяют изучать генетическое разнообразие у партеновида D. unisexualis и других родственных однополых и двуполых видов ящериц этого рода, что может дать новую информацию о происхождении партеновидов и о филогенетических связях в группе ящериц рода Darevskia. Эти данные также могут быть использованы для решения задач по маркированию мало изученного пока генома ящериц.
Korchagin, V.I. & Martyrosian, I.A. & Malysheva, D.N. & Badaeva, T.N. & Tokarskaya, O.N. (2003) -
Korchagin, V.I. & Tokarskaya, O.N. (2010) -
Microsatellite repeats are one of the most widespread elements of the eukaryotic genome, but are poorly studied in species with clonal reproduction. PCR analysis and DNA sequencing were used to study the molecular structure of the allelic variants of microsatellite locus Du47D in the parthenogenetic species Darevskia unisexualis and its evolutionary ancestors, bisexual species D. raddei and D. valentini, of the genus Darevskia (Lacerta saxicola complex). Sequencing showed that the allelic variants of the D. unisexualis Du47D locus and the alleles of its D. raddei and D. valentini orthologs have a perfect microsatellite cluster structure, differ in number of ATT monomeric units, and have certain species-specific combinations of nucleotide substitutions, deletions, and insertions in the microsatellite-flanking DNA sequences. The Du47D alleles that the parthenogenetic species inherited from D. valentini or from D. raddei were identified.
Корчагин В.И., Токарская О.Н. (2010) -
Микросателлитные повторы, являясь одним из наиболее распространенных элементов генома эукариот, мало изучены у видов с клональным типом размножения. С помощью ПЦР-анализа и секвенирования ДНК изучена молекулярная структура аллельных вариантов тринуклеотидного микросателлитного локуса Du47D у партеновида Darevskia unisexualis и эволюционно-прародительских двуполых видов ящериц D. raddei и D. valentini рода Darevskia (Lacerta saxicola комплекс). Секвенирование аллельных вариантов Du47D у D. unisexualis и аллелей ортологичного локуса у D. raddei и D. valentini показало, что все исследованные аллели характеризуются совершенной структурой микросателлитного кластера, отличаются количеством мономерных (AAT)-звеньев и образуют определенные видоспецифические сочетания нуклеотидных замен, делеций и инсерций в прилежащих к микросателлиту последовательностях ДНК. Установлено, какие аллели Du47D партеновида унаследованы от D. valentini и какие от D. raddei.
Korchagin, V.I. & Vergun, A.A. & Godakova, S.A. & Tokarskaya, O.N. (2013) -
The molecular structure of the allelic variants of (AAT) n of the Du47D microsatellite locus was determined in parthenogenetic lizards Darevskia dahli, D. armeniaca, and D. rostombekovi. Comparative analysis of these alleles showed that they were characterized by perfect structure of microsatellite cluster, and were different in the number of (AAT) monomeric units, as well as in the combinations of species-specific substitutions and deletions in the microsatellite flanking regions. Molecular structure of microsatellite cluster, species-specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), and different representation of alleles Du47 in the samples of parthenogenetic species examined point to the origin of the alleles from different bisexual species, which is consistent with the hybrid nature of unisexual species of the genus Darevskia. In addition, these data reflect different combination patterns of interspecific hybridization events with the participation of the same bisexual species upon the formation of hybrid genomes of parthenogenetic species. Possible application of the allelic variants of microsatellite loci of parthenogenetic lizards as the genetic markers for the analysis of the genomes of parthenogenetic species in the light of evolution, ecology, and parthenogenetic type of reproduction in vertebrates is discussed.
Корчагин В.И., Вергун А.А., Годакова С.А., Токарская О.Н. (2013) -
Определена молекулярная структура аллелей (AAT)n-микросателлитного локуса Du47D у партеногенетических ящериц Darevskia dahli, D. armeniaca и D. rostombekovi. Сравнительный анализ этих аллелей показал, что они характеризуются совершенной структурой микросателлитного кластера, различаются количеством мономерных (AAT)-звеньев, а также сочетаниями видоспецифических нуклеотидных замен и делеций в прилежащих к микросателлиту областях ДНК. Молекулярная структура микросателлитного кластера, видоспецифический однонуклеотидный полиморфизм (SNP single nucleotide polymorphism) и различная представленность аллелей Du47D в исследованных выборках партеновидов указывают на происхождение аллелей от различных двуполых видов, что согласуется с гибридной природой однополых видов рода Darevskia. Кроме того, это отражает комбинаторику межвидовых гибридизаций одних и тех же двуполых видов при образовании гибридных геномов партеновидов. В работе также обсуждается возможность использования аллелей микросателлитных локусов партеногенетических рептилий как генетических маркеров для изучения геномов партеновидов в свете проблем эволюции, экологии и партеногенетического типа размножения у позвоночных животных.
Kordges, T. (2025) -
Kordges, T. & Maschka, M. (2025) -
Die Reptilienfauna des Hattinger Stadtgebietes (Ennepe-Ruhr-Kreis, NRW) wurde Ende der 1980er Jahre erstmalig näher untersucht und dokumentiert. Mit vier heimischen Arten (Waldeidechse, Zauneidechse, Blindschleiche und Ringelnatter) sowie zwei ausgesetzten Arten (Europäische Sumpfschildkröte, Rotwangen-Schmuckschildkröte) war sie artenarm und überschaubar. Ein Vergleich der alten Datensätze mit den Ergebnissen aus einem aktuellen Kartierungszeitraum (2077-2024) ermöglicht belastbare Aussagen über Bestandsveränderungen und belegt z.T. erhebliche Veränderungen während der letzten ca. 35 Jahre, die sowohl qualitativer (Artenspektrum) als auch quantitativer (Häufigkeit) Natur sind. Qualitativ fällt das mit der Schlingnatter und allochthonen Mauereidechsen erweiterte Artenspektrum auf, das ergänzt wird durch Gelbwangen-Schmuckschildkröten sowie mehrere weitere allochthone Schildkröten (Höckerschildkröte, Chinesische Streifenschildkröte, Schnappschildkröte). Besonders bemerkenswert sind die überraschenden Bestandsveränderungen der heutigen Barrenringelnatter. Ende der 1980er Jahre galt die Art noch als vom Aussterben bedroht, inzwischen ist sie aber in weiten Teilen des Stadtgebietes ebenso häufig wie die Blindschleiche, die, wenngleich noch immer auf hohem Niveau, rückläufige Bestände erkennen lässt. Die Bestände von Wald- und Zauneidechse zeigen über die Jahre hinweg stark schwankende, meist kleine und kleinste Lokalpopulationen, die gegenüber den 1980er Jahren aber auf niedrigem Niveau relativ stabil scheinen. So stehen lokalen Aussterbeprozessen und erloschenen Kleinstvorkommen auch einzelne neue Vorkommen entgegen, die vor Ort eine gewisse Durchlässigkeit der Landschaft fi-rr Neuansiedlungen belegen. Eine besondere Bedeutung kommt dabei offensichtlich Freileitungstrassen, einer ehemaligen, heute als Radweg ausgebauten Bahntrasse sowie, im waldreichen Htigelland, sonnenexponierten Wegeböschungen zu, die den Tieren bei zunehmender Sukzession den Wechsel zwischen älteren und neueren Windwurf- oder Aufforstungsflächen ermöglichen.
Koren, T. (2004) -
Koren, T. & Lauš, B. & Burić I. & Kuljerić, M. (2011) -
In this paper, we present data about the herpetofauna of the Kornati islands, with special refer- ence to Kornat and @ut, collected during several field trips in 2009. Together with the personal comments from our colleagues and literature data, 1 amphibian and 11 reptile species were re- corded on the islands. There is a possibility that Emys orbicularis is now extinct from the island of Kornat, as well as that Testudo hermanii has been introduced on the island of @ut.
Korf, H.-W. & Wagner, U. (1981) -
Subsequent to the injection of horseradish peroxidase into the parietal eye of adult Lacerta sicula, the course of the parietal nerve and its projections were determined. The parietal nerve enters the left habenular ganglion where it branches into a medial and a lateral route. Some nerve fibers decussate within the habenular commissure. Whereas this pathway exhibits a striking asymmetry at the level of the habenular ganglia, its projections to the dorsolateral nucleus of the thalamus, the periventricular hypothalamic area, the preoptic hypothalamic and telencephalic regions, and the pretectal area are arranged in a strictly symmetric manner. A possible innervation of tegmental areas could not be proven due to the presence of endogenous peroxidase within these regions. No parietal nerve fibers were observed in the optic tectum. In a few animals investigated, scattered labeled perikarya were located in the periventricular hypothalamic gray indicating a parietopetal innervation in Lacerta sicula. The injection of horseradish peroxidase into one of the lateral eyes revealed terminal areas of the optic nerve within the preoptic region, and the thalamic and pretectal nuclei, displaying partial overlapping with the projections of the parietal nerve to these areas. From the present investigation further evidence is obtained that the pineal complex of lower vertebrates is a component of the photoneuroendocrine system. Particular emphasis is placed upon the nervous connections between the parietal eye and the hypothalamus, described for the first time in the present study.
Korkiya, I.K. (1976) -
Kornacker, P.M. (1993) -
In 1988 and 1989, a population of Lacerta vivipara was studied in an approximately 2 500 m area on a railway embarkment within cultivated landscape . Morphometric data, age structure, population density, mass relations, and tail losses were recorded or calculated. The results are discussed in view of habitat fragmentation. Adult males and females differ significantly in snout-vent-length. In contrast, neither as juveniles nor as adults, the sexes differ significantly in head length, tail length, or total length. The unexpected high tail loss rate is discussed. The relationship between growth, time for growth, and initial mass is presented. Mapping relocation sites of marked individuals demonstrates that a single track railway has no obvious effect as a barrier.
Kornalíková, M. (2019) -
Oxymonads are a group of flagellate protists living in low oxygen environments - mainly the guts of insects and vertebrates. In this study, we focus on the analysis of ploidy and karyotype of various species of oxymonads using Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) with probes against single copy genes and telomeric repeats as well as estimating the DNA content in the nuclei of these oxymonads using flow cytometry. Using specific FISH probes against SufDSU gene, which is present in a single copy in the haploid genome, we showed that all studied strains are probably haploid. From the genome of Monocercomonoides exilis strain PA203 we know that oxymonads have the ancestral type of telomeric repeat (TTAGGG). Using a probe against these repeats we tried to label chromosome ends and estimate the number of chromosomes for seven strains (five species) of Monocercomonoides. With a single exception, the average number of signals per nucleus was below 20 indicating number of chromosomes below 10. In the strains of M. mercovicensis, we observed much higher number of signals suggesting that the cells have much higher number of chromosomes. Finally, we established the DNA content for several strains using flow cytometry. We used as a standard M. exilis strain PA203 knowing that the haploid genome size is approximately 82Mbp. Results indicate that most of the strains have genomes smaller or similar to M. exilis except for M. mercovicensis, whose genome size is almost 130Mbp.
Oxymonády jsou skupinou bičíkatých prvoků, žijících v prostředí s nízkou koncentrací kyslíku. Obývají především střeva hmyzu a obratlovců. V této studii se zaměřujeme na analýzu ploidie a karyotypu různých druhů oxymonád pomocí metody fluorescence in situ hybridizace (FISH) s použitím prób proti jednokopiovým genům a telomerickým repeticím. Také jsme se pokusili odhadnout velikost genomu těchto druhů oxymonád pomocí průtokové cytometrie. S použitím specifických FISH prób proti SufDSU genu, který je pravděpodobně přítomenv jedné kopii v genomu, ukázali, že všechny studované kmeny jsou haploidní. Z genomu Monocercomonoides exilis víme, že oxymonády mají původní typ telomerické repetice (TTAGGG). Použitím próby proti těmto telomerickým repeticím jsme se pokusili odhadnout počet chromozomů u sedmi kmenů (pěti druhů) Monocercomonoides. Kromě jedné vyjímky byl průměrný počet signálů pod 20, což naznačuje počet chromozomů v řádu jednotek. V kmenech M. mercovicensis jsme ovšem zaznamenali mnohem vyšší počet signálů naznačujících, že buňky mají mnohem vyšší počty chromozomů. Nakonec jsme stanovili obsah DNA v jádreh těchto kmenů pomocí průtokové cytometrie se standardem M. exilis PA203, jehož velikost genomu je známa (82Mbp). Výsledky ukazují, že většina kmenů má menší velikost genomu podobnou nebo menší, než M. exilis PA203, naproti tomu druh M. mercovicensis má velikost genomu téměř 130 Mbp.
Korneychuk, V.P. & Chirikova, M.A. (2005) -
634 specimens of Lacerta agilis from 43 localities of Kazakhstan were studied. Eight localities were chosen within the territory of Semipalatinsk Nuclear Experimental Range (SNER). The scale characters of the head and preanal region have been exam- ined. The study has confirmed the following trends: i) Polymeric variations are more often than olygomeric ones, except supraciliars; ii) The pholidosis variations corre- spond to those of Lacerta agilis boemica or other lacertids. The specimens collected from SNER had no significant differences in the variation frequency in comparison with those from other parts of the habitat.
Корнейчук В.П., Чирикова М.А. (2005) -
При изучении морфологической изменчивости настоящих ящериц особо важное место занимают признаки фолидоза, в том числе и фолидоза головы. Голова прыткой ящерицы как типичного представителя сем. Lacertidae имеет довольно стабильную топографию щитков. Варьирующие признаки часто используются в систематике (Peters, 1958; 1959; 1960; Даревский и др., 1976; Fuhn, Vancea, 1964; Bischoff, 1984; 1988 и т. д.) и в микроэволюционных исследованиях (Яблоков, 1980; 1987; Валецкий, 1981; 1987; Захаров, 1981, 1983; Яблоков, Ларина, 1985; Ройтберг, 1987, 1989, 1991; Баранов, 1989; Драбкин, Бобылев, 1989). Кроме того, изучение вариаций элементов фолидоза интересно в плане выявления взаимодействий онтогенетических программ и окружающей среды.
Kornilev, Y.V. & Popgeorgiev, G. & Vacheva, E. & Tzankov, N. (2018) -
We provide details on the first documented cases of complete or partial melanism of lacertid lizards from Bulgaria. We obtained three instances of partial melanism in Lacerta viridis and two of complete one in Zootoca vivipara. We discuss a case of tail bifurcation in L. viridis that resulted in partial melanism of the secondary tail. Overall, our field data suggests that both complete or partial melanism in lacertid lizards in Bulgaria are rare (< 0.01% of observations).
Kornilios P. & Thanou E. & Lymberakis P. & Ilgaz Ç. & Kumlutaş Y. & Leaché A. (2019) -
Lacerta pamphylica and Lacerta trilineata are two currently recognized green lizard species with a historically problematic taxonomy. In cases of tangled phylogenies, next‐generation sequencing and double‐digest restriction‐site‐associated DNA protocols can provide a wealth of genomic data and resolve difficult taxonomic issues. Here, we generated genome‐wide SNPs and mitochondrial sequences, and applied molecular species delimitation approaches to provide a stable taxonomy for the Aegean green lizards. Mitochondrial gene trees, genetic cluster delimitation and population structure analyses converged into recognizing the populations of (a) L. pamphylica, (b) east Aegean islands, Anatolia and Thrace (diplochondrodes lineage), (c) central Aegean islands (citrovittata), and (d) remaining Balkan populations and islands (trilineata), as separate clusters. Phylogenomic analyses revealed a split into two major clades, east and west of the Aegean Barrier, unambiguously showing a sister–clade relationship between pamphylica and diplochondrodes, rendering L. trilineata paraphyletic. Species delimitation models were tested in a Bayesian framework using the genomic SNPs: lumping all populations into a single ‘species’ had the lowest likelihood but the current taxonomy was also outperformed by all other models. All lines of evidence support the Pamphylian green lizard as a valid species; thus, east Aegean L. trilineata should also be considered a distinct species under the name Lacerta diplochondrodes. Finally, evidence from the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes is overwhelmingly in favour of recognizing the morphologically distinct Cycladian green lizards as a distinct species. We propose their elevation to full species under the name Lacerta citrovittata. All remaining insular and continental populations of the Balkan Peninsula represent the species L. trilineata.
Kornilios, P. & Thanou, E. & Lymberakis, P. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumluta, Y. & Leaché, A. (2019) -
The Aegean Sea constitutes a major biogeographic barrier between the European and Asian continents and several models of diversification in the Aegean have been documented. Here, we test three of those models for the Aegean green‐lizards (Lacerta trilineata–pamphylica group): Vicariance versus Overland Dispersal versus Island Stepping‐stone Dispersal. We investigate these hypotheses and complement our knowledge on the impact of the Aegean Barrier on east Mediterranean taxa.
Korotkov, Y.M. (1974) -
Korsós, Z. (1982) -
Population dispersion of two sympatric lizard species, Lacerta viridis (Laur.) and L. agilis L., was calculated by Morista`s index, indicating aggregated populations. Association values have been computed by three methods for the interrelationship between the two species, which has corroborated the distinctness between the lizard populations. Examining the relative growth of individuals, 2-variable discriminant analysis was performed for the quotiens tail length to total length and the tail length data. Generalized distance (D2) between the two populations was 0.4932. Of the various data collected in 1981, a morphological and a microclimatic variable group have been identified by principal component analysis. As a result of discriminant analysis performed for seven environmental variables, the measure of niche overlap between the two lizard species was found to be 34 percent.
Korsós, Z. (1984) -
A capture-mark-recapture investigations on two sympatric populations of Lacerta viridis and L. agilis has been carried out for a period of two years. Niche segregation has been studied from three main points of view: microhabitat, daily activity pattern and food selection. Schoener`s measure of niche overlap was used in clarifying the roles of various factors. Food niche breadths of the two species has been described by an analysis of resource utilization curves. The following approximately equal in weight three factors are considered to be of greatest importance in the ecological segregation: 1. Microclimatic and activity pattern differences, 2. Prey taxa, and 3. Prey size.
Korsós, Z. (1986) -
One of the central aims of ecology is to clarify the reasons for the coexistence of variousorganisms. Niche theory is a favorized framework for such investigations /Van- dermeer, 1972/, because of its operative usefulness for studying the relationship bet- ween the tolerance of the populations and their complementary environment. However, there are several other ecological phenomena which may play important roles in the sympatry of the species. In the following, a short survey of the niche relationships of two popu- lations of Lacerta viridis and L. agilis is given, with results on their growth, age struc- ture and home range.
Korsós, Z. (2002) -
Korsós, Z. & Bischoff, W. (1997) -
Korsós, Z. & Gyovai, F. (1988) -
Korsós, Z. & Nagy, Z.T. (2006) -
A total melanistic specimen of the East European Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis) is reported from Central Hungary. The subadult male was caught, photographed and released in June, 1998 in the Kiskunság National Park. Referring to the literature, black individuals in the Green Lizard occur very rarely, observations of the Western European species, Lacerta bilineata DAUDIN, 1802 could only be found.
Korthaus, E. (1968) -
Korybska, Z. (1971) -
Thyroid glands of 47 Lacertae agiles aged over 3 years were examin- ed. Three phases of activity were distinguished: the period of spring tran- sition, of fuli activity and of its gradual decrease. The period of greatest activity fell for either sex in June. The two remaining phases began earlier in małe łizards. There were also observed the differences in structure and activity of the gland, which were connected with the age of Lacertae agiles and their active part in the reproduction.
Kosushkin, S.A. (2003) -
Kosushkin, S.A. & Bannikova, A.A. & Grechko, V.V. & Darevsky, I.S. & Kramerov, D.A. (2007) -
IS-PCR method reveals a set of DNA sequences separating copies of short interspersed repeats (SINE) fBuntjer, 1997]. The resulting electrophoretic patterns possess taxon-specific features at a intra-generic level. Degrees of molecular genetic diversities have been tested by the values of DNL coefficients and roughly range between 0.0 - 0.20 for intrapopulational levels, 0.3 - 0.5 for intersubspecils of one species, and about 0.6 - 0.9 for known good species. These values were obtained in our study of populations of Darevskia raddei complex and their two systematic subspecies in comparison with some other species of Darevskia group (D. rudis, D. chlorogaster and`D. tristis`). On the basis of these features for L7 D. raddei populations we show that the difference of south-western Azerbaijan (Talysh) population from other populations by DNL (0.a) is similar to that befween D. r. raddei and D. r. nairensis. This observation supports the subspecies status for Talysh sample. The same values of molecular genetic diversity were found for D. rudis obscura and`D. tristis` from North- Pontic Ridge of Turkey that could argue forthe subspecies level for `D. tristis` within the D. rudis complex, as was suggested by Bohme and Bischoff [1984]. Both groups mentioned differ from D. raddei by the values of DNL of 0.6 - 0.7. Nearly the same correlations were obtained when some populations of D. praticola and D. derjugini were studied. Some of the known systematic subspecies of these species were supported by IS-PCR markers, the others were not: the data will be presented. In another species complex studied by IS-PCR - Lacerta s. str. - 12 populations inhabitating a vast territory (flom Baltic States and Ural Mountains to Caucasus) differed by DNL ranging from 0.02 to 0.2 apparently belong to L. agilis exigua subspecies as was deduced by morphology. The same DNL values characterize intrapopulational similarity inthe L. a. chersonensis, but the differences between these two systematic subspecies reach the values of around 0.6. The samples from Munchen (presumably L. a. argtts) also differs from the first two by 0.6 - 0.7. The most important is that the molecular differences between each of these subspecies and, L. strigata and L. media were characterized also by the same order of values. In other words, the genetic distances between I. strigata, L. media, and three subspecies of L. agilis have the same level and all of them could be considered either as subspecies of L. agilis, or the three subspecies of this species could be evaluated as a separate species.
Kosushkin, S.A. & Grechko, V.V. (2013) -
To study the molecular genetic relationships and correlate them with the taxonomy within the complex of lacertid lizards of the genus Darevskia, the locus analysis of the copies of the SINE-type repeat (Squam1) specific for the order Squamata was used. It was demonstrated that one of the loci (No. 34) contained the Squam1 copy insert in all species and subspecies of the examined genus. SINE allelic copies in some of the loci contained large indels and specific sets of mutations. The allelic variant M (medium, about 340 bp) was found most frequently; it was detected in all subspecies of D. saxicola (saxicola, darevskii, szczerbaki, lindholmi) and in most of the other species of the genus. Two species, D. derjugini and D. praticola, differed from the other species in the presence of long (L) and short (S) alleles. The longest allele was characteristic of the D. derjugini population from the Northern Caucasus (L, 379 bp, ssp. silvatica), while the shortest allele (97 bp) united the derjugini and barani subspecies. The second allele S (279 bp) characterizes the subspecies D. praticola praticola, some individuals of which also carry allele M. The second subspecies, D. p. pontica, contains allele L2, which differs from all other medium alleles in the presence of strictly specific short indel. In addition to apomorphic indels, the specificity and mutation distribution patterns among the Squam1 alleles were also examined. An analysis of the NJ tree indicated the concordance between morphological and molecular genetic characters of the species derjugini, praticola, and saxicola. Furthermore, four subspecies of D. saxicola were much closer to each other than the subspecies within the first two species; D. d. silvatica and the group of D. d. derjugini + barani were clearly separated. It cannot be excluded that populations from Azerbaijan and Serbia can be treated as the independent subspecies of D. praticola.
Косушкин С.А., Гречко В.В. (2013) -
Для изучения молекулярно-генетического родства и сопоставления его с таксономией в комплексе ящериц-лацертид рода Darevskia применили локусный анализ копий повтора типа SINE (Squam1), специфичного для отр. Squamata. Один из локусов (№ 34) содержит копию Squam1 во всех исследованных видах и подвидах рода, некоторые из локусов имеют крупные индели и специфический набор мутаций. Наиболее часто обнаруживается аллельный вариант М (средний, около 340 пн) во всех подвидах D. saxicola (saxicola, darevskii, szczerbaki, lindholmi) и в большинстве других видов рода. Два вида D. derjugini и D. praticola отличаются от всех по содержанию в них длинных (L) и коротких (S) аллелей. Наиболее длинный аллель характеризует популяцию D. derjugini Сев. Кавказа (L, 379 пн, ssp. silvatica), наименьший (97 пн) объединяет подвиды derjugini и barani. Второй S-аллель (279 пн) характеризует подвид D. praticola praticola; некоторые особи обладают, кроме того, аллелем М. Второй подвид D. p. pontica содержит аллель L2, который отличается от всех других средних аллелей по строго специфичной небольшой индели. Помимо апоморфных инделей учитывали также специфичность и паттерны распределения мутаций в аллелях Squam1. NJ-дерево свидетельствует не только о соответствии между морфологическими и молекулярно-генетическими признаками видов derjugini, praticola и saxicola, но и о том, что четыре подвида D. saxicola гораздо более близкородственны, чем подвиды внутри первых двух видов; обособляются также D. d. silvatica и группа D. d. derjugini + barani. Не исключается возможность выделения популяций из Азербайджана и Сербии в качестве самостоятельных подвидов D. praticola.
Kosyan, A. & Arakelyan, M. & Danielyan, F. (2011) -
The zone of syntopy between Lacerta agilis, Lacerta strigata and Parvilacerta parva were discovered in vicinity of Mets Parni village, Lori Province, Armenia. 93 individuals of L. agilis (83.7%) and18 of L. strigata (16.2%) and one lizard of P. parva were examined during 2009-2011. According to our observations, the season activity of L. agilis is shorter than syntopic L. strigata on month. L. strigata emerged from hibernation at mid-April and were active until the mid-October, while L. agilis left winter burrows two week after L. strigata at the beginning of May and disappeared into hibernation on two week earlier at the end of September. Females of L. strigata lay thier irst clutchof eggs at the end of May, whereas L. agilis lay the irst clutch at the beginning of summer. The hatchlings of both species active till end October when the thermal conditions still favourable. Similarly, the appearance of young from winter hibernation occurs earlier than adults. Our surveys also revealed that two syntopic species possess spacial diferentiation of the same slope, where in bottom of slope were met L. strigata, in the middle of slope were both species and on higher places near to top of slope were mainly L. agilis. Thus, the dates of season activity, stages of reproductive cycles as well as pattern of spacial diferentiation allow to syntopic species to share resources of habitats.
Kotal, Č. (1874) -
Kotenko, K. & Szczerbak, N.N. (1995) -
Kotenko, T. (1986) -
Kotenko, T. & Vekhnik, V. (1993) -
Kotenko, T.I. (1986) -
Kotenko, T.I. (2010) -
This article includes a brief outline of herpetological studies in Crimea over the past 50 years, checklists of taxa of amphibians and reptiles, and a general description of the herpetofauna of Crimea. Some formal issues for the protection of amphibians and reptiles are also considered.
Котенко, Т.И. (2010) -
Два класса холоднокровных позвоночных – земноводные или амфибии1, и пресмыкающиеся или рептилии – по своей морфологии, биологии и образу жизни сильно различаются, однако традиционно рассматриваются вместе и изучаются в рамках специального раздела зоологии – герпетологии. И хотя последнюю часто разделяют на собственно герпетологию или науку о рептилиях, и батрахологию или науку об амфибиях, в этом обзоре мы будем придерживаться широкой трактовки термина «герпетология». Предлагаемая статья включает краткий очерк герпетологических исследований в Крыму за последние 50 лет, контрольные списки таксонов амфибий и рептилий, общую характеристику герпетофауны Крыма. Рассматриваются также некоторые формальные вопросы охраны амфибий и рептилий.
Kotenko, T.I. & Sviridenko, Y.Y. (2010) -
Terminology related to colour pattern examination, as well as types of colour pattern of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758) and characters of coloration and pattern of different parts of its body are considered. Literature data are summarised, original and museum materials are analysed on morphs and aberrations of this species colour pattern. For some previously described but not named morphs the names are proposed, and for new morphs and aberrations the descriptions and names are given. Based on the analysis of 4370 specimens from the Crimea, other regions of Ukraine and from the Taman’ Peninsula (Russia), 129 phens of the main characters of L. agilis coloration and pattern are identified.
Котенко, Т.И. & Свириденко, Е.Ю. (2010) -
Рассматриваются вопросы терминологии, связанной с изучением окраски и рисунка, типы расцветки прыткой ящерицы (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758), признаки окраски и рисунка различных частей ее тела. Обобщены литературные данные и проанализирован оригинальный и музейный материал по морфам и аберрациям расцветки этого вида. Предложены названия для некоторых описанных ранее, но не обозначенных морф, приведены описания и названия новых морф и аберраций. На основании анализа 4370 экз. из Крыма, других регионов Украины и Таманского полуострова (Россия) выделено 129 фенов по основным признакам окраски и рисунка L. agilis.
Kothe, M. (2009) -
Kothe, M. & Miehe, K. (2009) -
Kotsakis, T. (1981) -
Dans cette note on étudie les squamates du Pliocene, Pléistocene et Holo- cene des Baléares. Mallorca et Menorca ont été envahies vraisemblemblement pendant le Miocene supérieur par uné espece du genre Lacerta. Mallorca pendant le passage Plio-Pléis- tocene est peuplée par une population de lézards qui anoncent déja l`espece actuelle (Lacer- ta (Pordareis) afi. lilfordi). Les gisements du Pléistocene supérieur et de I`Holocene ont li- vré restes de l`espece vivante Lacerta (Podareis) lilfordi qui est disparue actuellement de cette ile et aussi de Menorca (oú on a trouvé aussi des restes holocenes de la meme espece) et occupe seulement des ilots aux voisinages de deux iles majeures. La population holocene de la Cova de Muleta (Mallorca) présente des particularités (taille plus robuste, nombre des dents plus élevé soit sur le maxillaire soit sur le dentaire) qui permettent sa séparation au niveau subspécifique, Lacerta (Pordacis) lilfordi muletensis ssp. n. Quelques rares restes du Pléistocene inférieur de Menorca sont classifiés comme Lacerta (Podareis) sp. La disparition de Lacerta lilfordi de Mallorca et Menorca est due probablement a l`introduction de ser- pents dans les iles de la part de l`homme. Enfin un stock des lézards baléariques a envahi probablement pendant le Pliocene ou le Pléistocene, Eivissa et les ilots voisins et a donné naissance a Lacerta (Pordacis) pityusensis.
Kourides, A. & Stamatiou, M. & Zotos, S. (2024) -
Koutsoukos, K. (2006) -
Kovacs, D. & Kiss, I. (2016) -
Although Ablepharus kitaibelii and its subspecies are wide-spread, being distributed from the Carpathian Basin through the Balkans to Iraq, their habitat and environmental niche is poorly known. Ablepharus kitaibelii fitzingeri is almost entirely limited to the Carpathian Basin, and is amongst the most strictly protected and least known reptiles of Central and Eastern Europe. The main aim of our study was to determine habitat use preferences of different age groups of A. kitaibelii fitzingeri and Lacerta viridis. The occurrence of green lizard was determined by the abundance of refugia rather than by the naturalness of grasslands. The snake-eyed skink prefers semi-natural grasslands with abundant tussock-forming grass or sedge species, avoiding densely shrubby places. For the first time, we show that woodland mosaics lacking shrubs and temporary grasslands next to forest edges are important for the species. Microhabitat use by snake-eyed skink varies with age group; adults preferring shady edge zones rich in leaf litter and shadier grassland spots provided by woodland mosaics, whereas juveniles were found in natural, more open grasslands far from forest edges and in woodland mosaics with dense shrubby understory. Our results contribute to a better understanding of the ecological needs of A. kitaibelii fitzingeri. Our methodology could be adapted to other species and subspecies of Ablepharus. Based on our results, it is important to reconsider habitat management activities, which should not be limited to shrub control: the main goal should be the development of a diverse habitat structure.
Kovács, T. & A. Brandon (2005) -
Kovaleva, A.V. & Galoyan, E.A. (2021) -
Kovtun, M.F. & Yarygin, A.N. (2010) -
Serial sections of 29 Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758 embryos on the successive developmental stages, stained with hematoxylin-eosin or alcian blue-hematoxylin-eosin, were examined. It was found that trabecula cranii, acrochordal cartilage and pilae metopticae are the initial components of the orbito-temporal region of L. agilis scull. Taenia marginalis emerges first in embryogenesis and then taenia medialis forms. Frontal parts of taenia marginalis, that are the split-type structures, originate from planum supraseptale and their posterior parts originate from pilae accessoriae. Fenestra septalis forms due to thinning of the medial part of interorbital septum. Key words: skull development, reptiles, orbito-temporal region, interorbital septum, taenia marginalis, taenia medialis, planum supraseptale, pilae metopticae, pilae accessoriae, pilae antoticae.
Kowalska, M. & Rupik, W. (2014) -
Kowalski, T. (2022) -
Kowalski, T. & Grossmann, W. & Zilger, J.-J. & Zwanzig, B.-M. (2011) -
The herpetological results of three brief journeys to the saiq Plateau in the Sultanate of Oman are summarized. These yielded eight new locality records and numerous field observations. Existing distribution data are discussed relative to the new finds, and a checklist of recorded and expected species is presented.
Kowalski, T. & Zilger, J. & Grossmann, W. (2008) -
Koynova, T.V. & Marinova, P.S. & Mihov, S.D. & Jablonski, D. & Natchev, N.D. (2022) -
Koziel, G. & S`khifa, A. & Kirchhof, S. & Macleod, A. & Joger, U. & Sinervo, B. & Carretero, M.A. & Slimani, T. & Vences, M. (2021) -
Experimentally assessing the preferred body temperature (Tpref) of ectothermic animals is important to understand thermal adaptation. In lizards, this variable is usually estimated by measuring body temperature in thermal gradients. To quantify the extent to which different experimental setups influence the inferred Tpref values we submitted 65 individual lizards of three species to randomized tests using six different experimental setups at Oukaimeden, Morocco, including setup variants similar to those that have been most often used in lacertids. Among-treatment differences were substantial. Using an infrared bulb as heat source in combination with artificial cold lighting yielded about 5°C lower Tpref estimates than photothermal treatments with an incandescent bulb as heat and light source, possibly because lizards thermoregulated differently without a visual cue related to the heat source, or due to the absence of a natural photoperiod. Photothermal assays in which Tpref was assessed by hourly cloacal measurements over a 10h period yielded 2.2°C lower Tpref estimates than 2h treatments where body temperature was measured every minute with a thermocouple attached to the belly. This probably reflects that the 2h treatments targeted lizards in the initial warming-up phase, whereas the 10h treatment attempts to capture the preferred temperature of a lizard over its entire daily cycle including phases of inactivity. Lastly, we observed large differences among treatments with contact thermometers versus infrared laser thermometer measurements, calling for caution when the latter are used with artificial heat sources. Our data do not provide thorough tests of the physical, behavioural or physiological causes underlying the observed differences between treatments, but illustrate that for meta-analyses where detailed comparisons are needed, a rigorous consideration of the optimal experimental setup and its consistent use will remain necessary.
Krach, J.E. (2000) -
Für den Südzug der Frankenalb (Altmühlalb) und die südlich anschließende Donauniederung werden für eine Fläche von 3 300 km2 eigene Beobachtungen von Reptilien im Zeitraum von 1966-2000 in Messtischblatt-Neuntel-Rasterkarten dargestellt. Dabei ergeben sich für die weiter verbreiteten und nach wie vor häufigeren Arten Zauneidechse und Ringelnatter, sowie für Schlingnatter und Waldeidechse interpretierbare Verbreitungsbilder. Für die Blindschleiche wird im Untersuchungszeitraum eine deutliche Abnahme der Individuenzahlen festgestellt, für die Schlingnatter eine solche vermutet. Europäische Sumpfschildkröten und Nordamerikanische Rotwangen- Schmuckschildkröten (Trncliemi/s scripta elegans) gehören in der Donauniederung unterhalb von Ingolstadt zum gut dokumentierten, festen Faunenbestand. Kreuzotter und Mauereidechse fehlen seit jeher im Untersuchungsgebiet.
Kradorf, U. (1986) -
Kraft, K. (2013) -
Krajnovic, M. (2017) -
Of 6,000 species of lizards, only 2% occasionally or regularly eat plants. Omnivory has evolved at least seven times within squamata, while total herbivory is relatively rare. Evolution of herbivory has been affected by different ecological factors, among the most important ones is the availability of food. An experiment on competitive exclusion was done in 1972. on populations of Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) from the islands of Pod Mrčaru and Pod Kopište. About 30 years after the experiment, lizards on Pod Mrčaru (which are descendants of lizards from Pod Kopište) eat large amounts of plant food especially during the summer, and have modified intestines which indicate the possibility of fermentative degradation of cellulose by microorganisms. We found that the lizards from Pod Mrčaru are larger and heavier than lizards from Pod Kopište, and have greater relative gut lengths, especially females. We also concluded that there is interaction between the effects of habitat and sex on the relative gut lengths. More experiments are needed (on this species and others) in order to better understand the physiological and morphological changes associated with the evolution of herbivory and omnivory, and to realize what ecological factors affect the appearance of herbivory in lizards.
Ovaj rad je izrađen u Zavodu za animalnu fiziologiju Prirodoslovno-matematičkog fakulteta Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, pod vodstvom doc. dr. sc. Zorana Tadića. Rad je predan na ocjenu Biološkom odsjeku Prirodoslovno-matematičkog fakulteta Sveučilišta u Zagrebu radi stjecanja zvanja magistra ekologije i zaštite prirode. Srdačno se zahvaljujem mentoru doc. dr. sc. Zoranu Tadiću na danom povjerenju, stručnim savjetima, pomoći i vodstvu pri izradi ovog diplomskog rada. Posebno se zahvaljujem doktorantu Becku Wehrleu i njegovom mentoru doc. dr. sc. Donovanu Germanu (University of California, Irvine, SAD) na pruženoj prilici i suradnji, terenskom radu, sakupljanju i analiziranju uzoraka. Također se zahvaljujem doc. dr. sc. Anthonyu Herrelu (Museum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Pariz, Francuska) na suradnji i pomoći kod terenskog rada. Hvala Nathan Gold, Parth Javeri, Martini Ratko, Ivi Salamon, Barbari Horvatić, Valeriji Aptreevoj na pomoći pri terenskom radu.
Kral, B. (1969) -
This paper comprises, the collections made in four northern provinces of Afghanistan (Mazar-i-Sharif, Herat, Malmana, Kataghan) and In the eastern Afghan province of Nangarhar which is separated from the Central Asiatic Subregions by the mountain range of Hindu-Kush. In all, 135 Individuals belonging to 34 species were determined. The herpetofauna of the northern provinces was compared with that of Nangahar. In this province 9 species, [Gmnodactylus sp. (kachhensis ssp. nov.?), Calores versicolor, Uromastyx hardwicki, Varanus bengalensis, Oligodon arnensis, Fowleya piscator, Psammophis leithiand Bungarus coeruleus], typical of the Oriental Region, were fund but the forms typical of the Turanian zone are missing here. This specific structure of the herpetofauna arranges the -Nangahar provinces [the drainage area of the Kabul River in the environs of Jalad-Abad] to the Oriental Region. In the Nangarhar province a new form belonging to Gymnodactylus kachhensis was found. Its taxonomy was not solved.
Kramer, E. & Stemmler, O. (1986) -
Kramer, E. & Stemmler, O. (1988) -
Kramer, E. & Stemmler, O. (1992) -
Kramer, G. (1934) -
An 6 teils alters-, teils artbedingten Größenstufen von Eidechsen aus der Gattung Lacerta wird der Ruheumsatz bestimmt. Auf gleiches Gewicht bezogen, verhalten sich die Umsatzgrößen der extremen Größenstufen (71 g bis 1,72 g) wie 1 3; auf ein Flächenmaß bezogen, haben alle Gruppen ± etwa 13% den gleichen Umsatz. Die absolute Energieabgabe einer Eidechse, die unter angegebenen Bedingungen im Winter gehalten wird, beträgt bei 20 ° rund 10 Kal/qm/24 Stunden. Es wird berechnet, daß eine Eidechse von 70 g, die gut ernährt in den Winter geht, mit 7,2 Kal Wärmeabgabe während der ganzen Winterruhe nur den kleineren Teil ihrer Fettreserven aufzuzehren braucht.
Kramer, G. (1937) -
Eingangs werden beschrieben: Die Imponierhaltung, Ausdruck der Angriffslust, und das Treteln, Ausdruck der Unterlegenheit. Beide Gesten kommen sowohl beim Kämpfen als auch gegenüber dem Geschlechtspartner zur Anwendung. Jedoch ist die Imponierhaltung des Männchens gegenüber dem umworbenen Weibehen offenbar ein Rest von Feindseligkeit, denn sie fällt bei gut miteinander bekannten Paaren weg. Von mehreren zusammengesperrten Männchen bekämpft eines alle übrigen, eine Rangordnung innerhalb der Unterlegenen besteht nicht. Eingesessenheit im Terrain erhöht die Kampftüchtigkeit. Auch manche Weibehen kämpfen miteinander; desgleichen Junge ab frühester Jugend. Außerhalb der Fortpflanzungszeit wurden Weibehen von den Männchen zwar auch feindselig behandelt, aber dennoch in anderer Weise als Männchen. Das Bekämpfen ist weniger heftig, und in wenigen Tagen findet ein friedliches Aneinandergewöhnen statt, was gegenüber Männchen niemals eintritt. Die Weibehen wirken bei der Paarung und Paarungseinleitung nie aktiv mit, doch fallen ihre Abwehrmaßnahmen gegen das zwecks Begattung zugreifende Männchen verschieden heftig aus, wodurch sie sehr wahrscheinlich den Erfolg der Begattungsbemühungen beeinflussen können. Auf statistischem Wege wird nachgewiesen, daß die Begattungen in die erste Hälfte eines Zeitraumes zweischen 2 Eiablagen fallen, oft sogar den Eiablagen ganz kurz nachfolgen. Der rote Bauch der männlichen L. melisellensis ist ein Merkmal für die Geschlechtsunterscheidung, aber vielleicht ein erlerntes. Die Unterscheidung der Geschleehter auf Grund anderer optischer Merkmale ist bei sicula nachgewiesen. Außerdem wird das Erkennen des Geschlechts auf chemorezeptorischem Wege geleistet. Die Geschlechtsunterscheidung mit den daran geknüpften Handlungsfolgen — Kampf oder Paarung —steht und fällt also in diesem Falle nicht mit einem einzelnen Kennzeichen. Auch das Ineinandergreifen oder Aufeinanderstßen von Handlungschemen ist nicht maßgebend; ein Männchen erkennt ein anderes als solches in jeder Lebenslage, sowohl in Impnierhaltung als auch bei indifferentem Verhalten und sogar wenn es ausweicht. Die Eidechsen lernen sich persönlich kennen. Es bilden sich durch Aneinandergewöhnen Duldungsfreundschaften, während neu hinzutretende Individuen feindlich behandelt werden. Die Reaktionen aus dem Bereich der Paarbildung und des Kämpfens sprechen auf Angehörige anderer Arten mur sehr beschränkt an.
Kramer, G. (1938) -
Kramer, G. (1941) -
Kramer, G. (1949) -
Einige der untersuchten Inselpopulationen von Lacerta serpa (3 Galli-Eilande; Monacone bei Capri) sind äußerlich nicht oder nur schwach geschwärzt. Es erweist sich, daß die Verdichtung der Melanineinlagerung durch aufgelagertes Guanin nur maskiert ist. Auch im Laboratorium erbrütete, frisch geschlüpfte Inseleidechsen sind schon verdunkelt. Die Verdunkelung ist an der Melanineinlagerung der Pleuren besonders deutlich nachweisbar. Unter angegebenen Bedingungen gezüchtete Faraglione-Eidechsen sind äußerlich und innerlich heller als Wildtiere. Auch alt gefangene Faraglione-Eidechsen werden im gleichen Kulturmilieu lichter, was auf (nachgewiesenen) Melaninschwund in der Epidermis zurückgeführt wird. Die Inselschwärzung wird als Strahlungsschutz gedeutet. Der mitbedingten erhöhten Wärmebildung wird der Organismus durch die Erhöhung des Temperaturoptimums gerecht. Auf dem Weg zum totalen Melanismus stellt die Bläuung offenbar einen leicht gangbaren Weg der Neutralisierung reichlich vorhandenen Guanins dar.
Kramer, G. & Medem, F.v. (1951) -
Kramer, G. & Mertens, R. (1938) -
Krammer, U. (1977) -
Krampitz, G. & Böhme, W. & Kriesten, K. & Hardebeck, W. (1974) -
Krasilnikov, E.N. (1967) -
Krasnoshchekov, G.P. & Lisitsyna, O.I. (2009) -
The penetration mechanism of Sphaerirostris picae cystacanths in intestinal wall of the paratenic host Lacerta agilis and characteristic features of inflammatory changes in host intestinal wall are examined. Inflammatory reaction is characterized by predomination of eosinophiles and comparatively small amount of neutrophiles. The reaction is much more pronounced when cystacanth is placed in parallel to the wall of intestine. Extensive edema, plethora, stases in vessels, and slight hemorrhages are observed in submucous membrane. Inflammatory infiltration is less pronounced in case of perpendicular orientation of the proboscis. The secretory glands in cystacanths were not found, secretion on the tegumental surface was not seen, as well as no morphological effect of lytic enzymes on host tissues. The penetration of host intestinal wall is shown to be mechanic, advancement of the cystacanth through the wall of intestine is due to alterations of partial evagination and invagination of the presoma in combination with contractions of the metasoma.
Krastev, G. & Vacheva, E. & Naumov, B. (2023) -
There is a lack of information for potential winter activity of the snake-eyed lizard Ophisops elegans in Europe, where it has a limited distribution. To test the hypothesis that this species can be active during the winter months, two locations in Bulgaria were chosen. The visits were conducted in January, February and December 2022 near the village of Meden Buk and in December 2022 above the village of Mezek. A total of 19 individuals of O. elegans were recorded. In addition, we confirmed foraging behaviour based on faecal sample collection. To our knowledge, this is the northernmost record of winter activity in the snake-eyed lizard and the first consecutive observation of year-round activity for this species in Europe.
Kratovil, L. & Fokt, M. & Rehak, I. & Frynta, D. (2003) -
Male-biased sexual dimorphism in head, limbs, and tail scaled to snout–vent length has been reported in many lizard species. Consequently, various hypotheses have been proposed to explain observed body-shape dimorphism. According to the majority of them, the proportions of body components are adaptively related to sexual differences in ecology as well as in reproductive behaviour. Our study shows an alternative, much more parsimonious explanation in the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara). According to our analyses, the exaggeration of a single trait, specifically trunk length in females, may explain the whole pattern of sexual differences in body shape. The only consistent adaptive hypothesis, then, is that females with a larger abdominal cavity, and consequently a longer trunk, have a reproductive advantage. Size-adjusted heads, limbs, and tails traditionally reported to be larger in males than in females, features ascribed to numerous evolutionary mechanisms, thus appear to be just an artifact of inappropriate scaling to a sexually dimorphic trait (snout–vent length). As scaling to a single trait has been routinely used in many studies carried out in animals, we warn against quick interpretations based on such analyses and recommend more cautious inspection of allometries.
Krebs, E. & Abba, A. & Gillet, P. Eudeline, R. & Gauthier, J. & Le Quilliec, P. & Lorvelec, O. & Martinerie, G. & Vidal, E. & Buisson, E. (2017) -
Responses of reptile populations to the eradication of the Roof Rat (Rattus rattus) on Bagaud Island (Port-Cros National Park, Var, France).— An eradication of two invasive taxa, the Roof Rat (Rattus rattus) and Ice plants (Carpobrotus spp.), was undertaken in 2011 and 2012 on the protected nature reserve of Bagaud island, located in Port-Cros national Park (south-eastern France). R. rattus eradication was successful while Carpobrotus spp. eradication is still in progress. To assess the effects of R. rattus eradication on island reptile populations (Montpellier Snake Malpolon monspessulanus, European Leaf-toed Gecko Euleptes europaea, Common Wall Lizard Podarcis muralis), a pre-eradication monitoring was conducted in 2010 and 2011, and a post-eradication monitoring in 2013 and 2014. Census was performed with three semi-quantitative methods: (1) three transects of 80 m long and 2 m wide ; (2) two quadrats 1225 m2; (3) five rocky microsites, habitats for E. europaea. Very few individuals of M. monspessulanus were observed. Significant results were obtained only for E. europaea: after eradication, the number of observed juveniles increased and all observed individuals, independently of their age groups, were more outside shelters than inside. These results can be explained by the loss of avoidance behaviour that E. europaea displayed when in presence of R. rattus, and by lower predation pressure, given that both species are nocturnal. The elapsed time since eradication of R. rattus is quite short and some species have not necessarily visibly responded demographically. Additional monitoring in the coming years will provide further insights.
Krecsák, L. & Hartel, T. (2001) -
Krefft, G. (1949) -
Krefft, P. (1911) -
Krefft, P. (1927) -
Krekels, R. & Musters, K. & Luijten, L. (1999) -
Krenn, Y.P. (2023) -
The critically endangered Eastern Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis) is a thermophilic species, which is distributed in Vienna mainly in wine growing areas in the North-West of the city. Based on previous studies since 2011 this survey investigated a subpopulation within the metapopulation system of Green Lizards on the Nußberg, a popular wine growing district, where the lizards inhabit linear dispersed uncultivated slopes between the vineyards. In the last years, connectivity structures between those slopes were established in cooperation with the local wine makers to improve the habitat connectivity in the area. The current capture-re-capture study worked with individual recognition of scale patterns on the lateral head sides of photographed Green lizards, which were surveyed in the activity season from March to October 2017. The results give an overview of the resident population including population structure, distribution and phenological parameters, and second show the movement patterns of the individuals within the survey area including the connectivity structures. It is determined, that the population shows clustered distributions along the slopes and the sex ratio of the collected data represents a surplus of male individuals. The males covered larger distances and used the connectivity structures to migrate between the habitat slopes. The biggest distance showed a three-year-old male, which moved more than 250 m within the connectivity matrix. Furthermore, was tested statistically if the distances covered by the males correlate with different population parameters. In particular, males´ covered distances correlated negatively with the availability of females in the initially inhabited territory. Thus, low female abundance can cause emigration of males from the habitat patch in other sections. This underlines the importance of the connectivity structures, which help to connect subpopulation clusters within the single habitat sections.
Kretzschmar, K.G. (1995) -
The dangers of helminth infestations for lizards, particularly infestations with nematodes und cestodes, are reported. Infection routes, diagnoses, und treatments are described.
Kreutz, D. & Deichsel, G. (2012) -
Kreyerhoff, H. (2011) -
Krieg, H. (1917) -
Krieg, H. (1919) -
Kristen, R. (2013) -
Krofel, M. (2002) -
Krofel, M. (2005) -
The article presents the discovery of a melanistic male Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis sicula) from the vicinity of Padna in Koprsko primorje region (UTM UL93, 220 m a.s.l.). This is the first record of a melanistic Italian Wall Lizard in Slovenia.
Krofel, M. & Cafuta, V. & Planinc, G. & Sopotnik, M. & Šalamun, A. & Tome, S. & Vamberger, M. & Žagar, A. (2009) -
In this paper, we present a review of distributional data for reptiles in Slovenia collected prior to April 2009. Data are presented in a 10×10 km UTM grid and divided into two classes by the age: 1995 or earlier, and 1996- 2009. With this review, we would like to create a basis for future field work and emphasize the distributional gaps. For some species, the knowledge of their distribution has increased substantially in the last 13 years (e.g. for Podarcis muralis, Vipera aspis, Zamenis longissimus, Anguis fragilis, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, and Lacerta viridis / bilineata). The increase in some introduced species (e.g. Trachemys scripta and Testudo hermanni) is probably a consequence of additional introductions by people. On average, the number of UTM squares with recorded presence of autochthonous species has increased by 12% per species after 1995. For some of the species, no more records have been made after 1995 in many areas where they had been recorded before (e.g. Podarcis melisellensis, Vipera ammodytes, V. berus, Emys orbicularis, and Lacerta agilis), which might indicate the possibility of local extinctions. For the future, we recommend a continual monitoring of the population trends concerning individual species.
V prispevku podajamo pregled podatkov o razširjenosti plazilcev v Sloveniji, zbranih do aprila leta 2009. Podatki so predstavljeni na mreži UTM-kvadratov 10×10 km in razdeljeni glede na čas najdbe na obdobje pred letom 1996 in obdobje od 1996 do 2009. S tem prispevkom želimo postaviti osnovo za nadaljnje zbiranje podatkov na terenu in opozoriti na območja s pomanjkljivimi podatki. Pri nekaterih vrstah se je poznavanje njihove razširjenosti v zadnjih 13 letih precej izboljšalo (npr. Podarcis muralis, Vipera aspis, Zamenis longissimus, Anguis fragilis, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata in Lacerta viridis / bilineata). Pri nekaterih alohtonih vrstah (npr. Trachemys scripta in Testudo hermanni) je povečanje števila UTM-kvadratov z zabeleženim pojavljanjem po letu 1995 najverjetneje posledica njihovega vnašanja v naravo s strani človeka. V povprečju se je število UTM- kvadratov z zabeleženim pojavljanjem posamezne avtohtone vrste po letu 1995 povečalo za 12 %. Nekaterih vrst na mnogih območjih po letu 1995 nismo več našli (npr. Podarcis melisellensis, Vipera ammodytes, V. berus, Emys orbicularis in Lacerta agilis), kar nakazuje na možnost lokalnih izumrtij. V prihodnje bi bilo zaželeno zagotoviti stalen monitoring, s katerim bi lahko zanesljiveje beležili trende v populacijah posameznih vrst.
Krone, A. & Kitzmann, B. (2006) -
Kroneker, K. (1925) -
Kroniger, K. & Kroniger, M. (2013) -
We briefly describe our observations on a wall lizard population (Podarcis muralis) in the Botanical Garden of Osnabrück, Lower Saxony, Germany. We estimate the size of this allochthonous population to at least 200 individuals.
Kroniger, M. (1990) -
Kroniger, M. (1991) -
Kroniger, M. (1994) -
An easy method for incubating soft-shelled lizard eggs is described.
Color patterns of adult and juvenile Podarcis pityusensis maluquerorum are described. Keeping and breeding of this lizard species is reported.
Kroniger, M. (1995) -
Appearance und keeping of Acanthodactylus scutellatus are described.
Kroniger, M. (1996) -
Psammodromus algirus, Podarcis hispanica, Timon lepidus and Tarentola mauritanica were observed in the surroundings of Lloret de Mar, NE Spain.
Kroniger, M. (1998) -
Minute description of a copulation in Holaspis guentheri laevis. The male first seizes the female in the neck, then copulates with flank bite. The copulation lasts about fife and a half minutes.
Habitat and appearance of Holaspis guentheri laevis is described. The lizards are kept in a tropical rainforest-terrarium, without important climatic oscillations. Normally all 6 - 8 weeks a c1utch of two eggs is produced, except for a probable pause from October until December. Incubation lasts from 3 to 4 months depending on temperatures. With temperatures over + 32°C the hatched offspring was not viable. Keeping of the juveniles takes place without problems under the same conditions as of the adult ones.
Kroniger, M. (1999) -
At the end of November, Podarcis pityusensis could be observed on Ibiza and Formentera only at places protected from the wind, when the sun was shining and the air warmed up to 20 to 25°C.
Kroniger, M. (2003) -
Kroniger, M. (2004) -
Kroniger, M. (2006) -
Anlässlich einer Urlaubsreise vom 18.-27.06.2004 in die Bretagne (Nordfrankreich) konnten feldherpetologisch drei Reptilienarten nachgewiesen werden: Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis brogniardi und Vipera berus.
Kroniger, M. (2012) -
Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis were observed at a beach in Cancale (Northwestern France). Both species seemed to be mutually exclusive. While the egg-laying period of Podarcis muralis had been on peaklevel, the period of Lacerta bilineata had not even begun. A high pressure of predators is assumed because of the high number of regenerated tails in Podarcis muralis. Résumé: Dans une baie en Cancale (dans le Nord de la Bretagne) il y ont observées Lacerta bilineata et Podarcis muralis. Les deux espèces semblent être mutuellement exclusives. Dans les Podarcis muralis la période de pondre les oeufs s’était sur le pic durant laquelle des Lacerta bilineata n’a pas encore commencée. Une forte proportion de queues régénerées dans Podarcis muralis indique une pression de prédation élevée.
Kroniger, M. (2013) -
Contrary to other sources, the author found an explicit separation of Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis at a beach near Cancale. The finding of a head of a freshly killed Lacerta bilineata is discussed.
Kroniger, M. (2021) -
During a short trip to Hannover in August 2020 the Berggarten in Herrenhausen was visited. Thirteen wall lizards (Podarcis muralis maculiventris-East) were spotted: nine adults and two juveniles directly in the rockery plus two adults outside of the Canary greenhouse. An increase in number compared to KOTHE (2009) seems to be unlikely.
Kroniger, M. (2023) -
The first visit of a new population of allochthonus wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) is descripted. This vital population occurs in Nienburg/Weser, Lower Saxony, far north of its autochthonus distribution.
Kroniger, M. (2024) -
The finding of a wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) far north of its natural distribution is described.
Kroniger, M. & Bosch, H.A.J. in den (2001) -
Two types of vivaria are described for Holaspis guentheri laevis, one an approximation of the natural habitat and the other a more spartan design. In both the lizards do well, though we prefer the former design. Courtship lasts 5 - 8 minutes and involves a flankbite and the male clasping the female with his hind legs. For oviposition the lizards must be provided with a humid substrate on which pieces of bark are deposited, preferably in a partly closed container, the substrate if possible being around 30°C. Oviposition of the clutch of two occurs at night. At oviposition eggs measure 6.8x12.0±0.8 mm and weigh 0.33 g. These eggs develop to 9.8x18.8 mm and 1.08 g. At 29°C incubation takes 55-57 days. Juveniles measure (HB+T) 22+33 mm and weigh 0.24 g, and resemble their parents, though less intensely coloured. In contrast to the adults` ventral colour the juveniles are ventrally pitch-black. At a head-body length of approx. 27 mm, the change into adult coloration begins, and is completed when the animal reaches 35 mm in length. Sexual maturity is reached after 1.5-2 years. The proximal fusion of the third and fourth finger in Holaspis is hypothesised to dampen the impact after gliding flights.
Kroniger, M. & Dieckmann, M. (2010) -
On 05. June 2009 we visited a population of allochthonus Podarcis muralis in Witten-Bommern (North Rhine Westphalia). During the midday hours at temperatures of > 30°C we were able to spot 14 adult Podarcis muralis at an approx. 200 m long dry-stone wall.
Kroniger, M. & Dieckmann, M. (2011) -
Die während einer kurzen Besichtigung gemachten Beobachtungen an einer allochthonen Population von Podarcis muralis werden beschrieben. Dioe Population reproduziert seit etwa 30 Jahren trotz großer Entfernung vom natürlichen Verbreitungsgebiet erfolgreich und gilt damit als etabliert.
Kroniger, M. & Zawadzki, M. (2001) -
Kroniger, M. & Zawadzki, M. (2002) -
The population of Illiot de Sa Mesquida: Podarcis pityusensis characae (Buchholz 1954) is regarded as a synonym of Podarcis pityusensis pityusensis (Boscá 1883).
Observations on Podarcis pityusensis consuming herbivorous food on Eivissa and the surrounding islands are summarized and compared with the existing literature. The advantages of a herbivorous diet on small islands is briefly discussed.
Kroniger, M. & Zawadzki, M. (2005) -
Kroniger, M. & Ziesmann, S. (2014) -
On our return trip from the 2014 meeting of the AG Lacertiden, we observed fifity Podarcis muralis, four P. liolepis and one Lacerta agilis at the Burg Hardenberg, Lower Saxony. The ratio of observed P. liolepis seems to have decreased compared to 2011.
Kronshage, A. & Monzka, M-. & Mutz, T. & Niestegge, C. & Schlüpmann, M. (2009) -
Kropachev, I. & Tarkhnishvili, F. & Murtskhvaladze, M. & Goloyan, E. (2023) -
Three rock lizard species (genus Darevskia) occur in the same mountain gorge of the Greater Caucasus mountains located in Northern Georgia. Whereas Darevskia caucasica and Darevskia derjugini belong to the same phylogenetic clade known as “caucasica”, Darevskia rudis is associated to the “rudis” clade. The mountain lizards differed interspecifically in their scalation and ventral colouration patterns, but the body proportions of D. caucasica and D. rudis were more similar to each other than to D. derjugini as both had flatter heads and longer limbs than D. derjugini. Females of all three species had longer trunks and shorter limbs than males. We hypothesized that hybrids occur more likely between D. derjugini and D. caucasica rather than between species belonging to different clades. However our analysis of microsatellite genotyping clearly revealed no traces of hybridisation and/or gene flow among any of the coexisting lizard species. The absence of individuals with intermediate morphological and genetic features reflects the presence of strong reproductive barriers at the prezygotic level.
Kropachev, I.I. & Ananjeva, N.B. (2021) -
И.И. Кропачев & Н.Б. Ананьева. (2021) -
Krpan, M. (1962) -
Krug, R. & Johst, K. & Wissel, C. & Martens, B. (1996) -
Krüger-Hellwig, L. (1992) -
Krütgen, J. (2011) -
In July and August 2010 common lizards were monitored in different kinds of grassand heathland sites in the district of Segeberg (Schleswig-Holstein). Due to the season and the point that a capture-recapture study was performed, pitfall traps were used. On each survey area, 25 pitfall traps were placed in a square with an extent of 20 x 20 m. Although the used traps were suitable for catching common lizards, the amount of catches strongly differed in the analysed areas. It appears, that the vegetation structure near the ground and the resulting microclimate, as well as the spatial distribution of the common lizard might affect the amount of catches. In conclusion, the method might be used in unfavourable weather conditions, as in high summer, in cases of capture-recapture studies, but can not be seen as a replacement for selective surveys in a more favourable period. In addition, a technique of temporarily marking lizards by using bee tags was put to test. The main advantage of this method – a quick and easy drying of the glue, which also lead to a loss of markings. Using a fastdrying but also tolerable glue might enhance the efficiency of this method.
Krütgen, J. & Pohlmann, P. & Herden, C. & Schulz, B. (2018) -
Im Rahmen eines Artenschutz- und Wiederansiedlungsprojektes wurden seit 2015 auf zwei Projektflächen im Kreis Segeberg (Schleswig-Holstein) insgesamt 229 aus Gefangenschaftsnachzucht stammende Jungtiere der im Bundesland stark gefährdeten Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) ausgewildert. Zu diesem Zwecke wurde eine aus Wildfängen bestehende Zuchtgruppe von vier Männchen und acht Weibchen ganzjährig in einem Freilandgehege der Gesellschaft für Freilandökologie und Naturschutzplanung mbH (GFN) in Molfsee gehalten. Trächtige Weibchen wurden zur kontrollierten Eiablage kurzzeitig in Legeboxen überführt und anschließend wieder in die in die Freilandanlage gesetzt. Die Inkubation der Gelege unter kontrollierten Bedingungen führte durchweg zu einer deutlich verkürzten Eizeitigungsdauer (Embryonalentwicklung bis zum Schlupf) und hoher Schlupfrate verglichen mit Gelegen aus Freilandreproduktion. Ausgesetzte Jungtiere hatten aufgrund der verkürzten Inkubation i. d. R. einen deutlichen Entwicklungsvorsprung und standen bereits im 1. Jahr nach der Auswilderung kurz vor der Geschlechtsreife. Durch das begleitende Monitoring konnte im zweiten Jahr nach der Ansiedlung eine erste Freilandreproduktion bei den ausgesetzten Zauneidechsen nachwiesen werden. Aufgrund der geringen Individuendichten konnte bis dato, trotz intensiver Suche, keine Ausbreitung der ausgewilderten Tiere auf benachbarte Flächen beobachtet werden. Vielmehr konzentrierten sich sämtliche Funde nahe der Aussetzungspunkte.
Krütgen, J. & Reck, H. (2013) -
Kruyntjens, B. (1981) -
Kruyntjens, B. (1982) -
Kruyntjens, B. (1983) -
Kruyntjens, B. (1984) -
PODARC!S MURALIS MURALIS IN MAASTRICHT A survey is given of P .m . muralis distribution in the Netherlands at present and in the past. Disuibution of other nonhem , isolated P.m . muralis populations in Belgium and Gennany is briefly discussed. Habit:lt, reproductive activities and the differing habitus of the Dutch population are characterised. In the Nether- lands the Common Wall Lizard is an endangered species. Habitat destruction and capture are consi- dered the major causes. Renovation of the old walls of Hoge and Lage Fronten fonns the most important threat. Guidelines for the maintenance of habitat possibilities in the renovated walls were largely ignored by the people responsible for the renovation work and the revised walls became useless for lizards. A large decline in lizard density was ob- served. Several measures to protect the wallizard in Maastricht are proposed.
Kruyntjens, B. (1988) -
Kruyntjens, B. (1990) -
Kruyntjens, B. (1992) -
Kruyntjens, B. (1993) -
On account of its thermophilous nature the Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis ( L A U R E N T I , 1768)) in Its north-west range only occurs In river valleys. Probably the species has reached this area during a stage of warm cli- mate approx. 7,700 - 5,000 years ago. The area has been affected by deforestation sin- ce 6,500 years which could have supported the dispersal of the Wall Lizard. It is possible that the lizard succeeded in `conquering` the city of Maastricht - its northernmost boundary - at the time both the enceintes were constructed (approx. 1250and 1350).Thechalkhill`SintPieters- berg` - just south of the city of Maastricht - probably played an important role as a step- ping stone. Due to human activity the Wall Lizard nowadays Is assumed absent on the Dutch part of this hill. Still in our century the Maastricht Wall Li- zard was widely distributed on the walls all over the westbank of the river Maas. As a result of various causes the population de- clined and only two colonies survived on the remnants of the fortifications `Lage Fron- ten` and `Hoge Fronten`. The latter recent- ly has been given the legal status of `Protec- ted Nature Reserve`. In the Belgian parts of the `Sint Pietersberg` the Wall Lizard still occurs, be it in small numbers. Its habitat is severely threatened by the lack of structural management. Res- toration of the old chalk grasslands on both Belgian and Dutch part of the hill and re-in- troduction of Wall Lizards can be the insu- rance to saveguard this valuable and interes- ting species for the `Sint Pietersberg`.
Kruyntjens, B. (1994) -
The Wall lizard (Podorcis murafis (Laurenti, 1768)) is now found at only two sites In the Netherlands, viz. the fortifications called `Hoge Fronten` and `Lage Fronten` at Maastricht. T o support these isolated populations, lizards have been bred for repopulation and reintroduction. The reptile used to occur on many other sites inand around Maastricht in the first half of the present century. Fortunately, there are still walls which could be made suitable for reintroduction through remodellingand special management measures. The paper discusses the potential habitats. The two existing populations are too small and therefore not suitable as direct sources for reintroduction. Hence, a breeding plan will have to be set up.
Kruyntjens, B. & Biard, H. (1991) -
In Maastricht on the old city walls, the northern- most population of Podarcis muralis has its habi- tat. This population however, is very small. To improve this situation, a breeding project was started. First the risks of such action were consi- dered carefully. In spring a few males and females were captured and housed in vivaria. As soon as all the eggs were laid, these animals were released again on the exact spot were they had been captu- red. The offspring was released the next spring be- cause it was presumed they had the best chance to survive then. The breeding method is described. The parent animals and the juveniles were toe clipped to make identification possible. The futu- re of the population is discussed.
Kruyntjens, B. & Paulissen, P. (1977) -
Kruyntjens, B. & Paulissen, P. & Bank, J. (1979) -
Krymov, N.G. (2017) -
Summer counts of Phrynocephalus helioscopus (Pallas, 1771) and Eremias arguta (Pallas, 1773) were conducted in the Altai Region during April – September, 2016. A sharp decline in the activity of lizards in June and July was noted, due to the high temperatures and dry weather. As a result of excavation of some burrows, lizards in a non-active state were found. The possibility of summer hibernation (estivation) of the species is considered.
Крымов Н.Г. (2017) -
Алтайском крае проведены учеты Phrynocephalus helioscopus (Pallas, 1771) и Eremias arguta (Pallas, 1773) в период апрель - сентябрь 2016 г. Отмечен резкий спад активности ящериц в июне - июле в связи с высокими температурами и засушливой погодой. В результате раскопок нор обнаружены ящерицы в неактивном состоянии. Рассматривается вероятность летней спячки (эстивации) у данных видов.
Krymov, N.G. & Doronin, I.V. (2021) -
Kryštufek, B. & Kletečki, E. (2007) -
Species–area relationships and nestedness patterns were studied in three groups of small terrestrial vertebrates (mammals, reptiles, amphibians) on 14 landbridge islands of the eastern Adriatic. islands ranged in surface area between 15 and 410 km2 and contained from eight to 36 species from a total species pool of 48. reptiles were the most species rich group (S = 28), and had more species than mammals (S = 13) and amphibians (S = 7) combined. island surface area predicted species richness best in reptiles (r2 = 0.79) and most poorly in amphibians (r2 = 0.52). Mammals showed a significantly lower slope of the species–area curve than amphibians and reptiles, and thus accumulated species counts with increase in area at the lowest rate. Nestedness patterns in all groups were significantly more organised than expected by chance. Amphibian nested structure points to extinction dominated and well insularised populations with no subsequent recolonisations. frequent unexpected presences and absences in the nestedness patterns of mammals and reptiles suggest complex biogeographic histories for these two groups, with several factors putatively in operation: heterogeneity in habitats and the original source fauna, post- isolation immigrations and differential extinction rate due to human-caused habitat degradation.
Kubach, G. & Ehrl, A. (1988) -
Kubach, G. & Matthäus, G. (1997) -
Kubelová, M. & Papousek, I. & Belohlávek, T. & Bellocq, J.G. de & Baird, S.J.E. & Sirokya (2015) -
Spotted fever rickettsioses are tick-borne diseases of growing public health concern. The prevalence of rickettsia-infected ticks and their ability to parasitize humans significantly influence the risk of human infection. Altogether 466 Ixodes ricinus ticks (428 nymphs and 38 larvae) collected from 73 Lacerta schreiberi lizards were examined by PCR targeting the citrate synthetase gene gltA for the presence of Rickettsia spp. Rickettsial DNA was detected in 47% of nymphs and 31.6% of larvae. They were subse-quently subjected to a second PCR reaction using primers derived from the outer membrane protein rOmpA encoding gene (ompA) to detect spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFG). This analysis shows that 41.4% of nymphs and 7.9% of larvae collected from the lizards contain DNA of SFG rickettsiae. Sequencing of 43 randomly selected samples revealed two different haplotypes, both closely related to R. monacensis (39 and 4 samples, respectively). The remaining ompA negative Rickettsia spp. samples were determined to be R. helvetica based on sequencing of ompB and gltA fragments. Our results indicate that the role of Iberian endemic lizard L. schreiberi and its ectoparasites in the ecology and epidemiology of zoonotic SFG rickettsioses may be appreciable.
Kudakina, E.J. (1981) -
Kúdelová, M. & Jánosová, M. & Belvonciková, P. (2018) -
Murine herpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) is a natural pathogen that infects murid rodents, which serves as hosts for Ixodes ricinus ticks. For the first time, MHV-68 was detected in immature I. ricinus ticks feeding on Lacerta viridis lizards trapped in Slovakia, which supports the idea that ticks can acquire the virus from feeding on infected hosts. The recent discovery of MHV-68 infection and MHV-68 M3 gene transcripts in Dermacentor reticulatus ticks collected in Slovakia also supports this suggestion. Here, for the first time, we report MHV-68 infection, which was detected by nested PCR, in I. ricinus adults collected from the vegetation, and the viral load in infected ticks was determined by quantitative PCR. The viral incidence in ticks was 38.1% (21/55), and the viral load varied from 1.5 × 103 to 2.85 × 104 genome copies per tick. These results suggest that the I. ricinus ticks became infected with MHV-68 from biting infected rodents; thus, I. ricinus ticks may play a role in the spread of this virus in nature.
Kudokotsev, V.P. (1962) -
Kuenen, F.J.A. & Spitzen, A. (2006) -
Kühn, W. (1976) -
Kühne, B. (1898) -
Kuhne, K. (1913) -
Kühnel, K.-D. (2004) -
Kühnel, K.-D. (2008) -
Kühnel, K.-D. (2013) -
In two populations of the Sand Lizard in Berlin two specimens of the concolor mutant, a male and a female, could be observed in the year 2013. The Habitats were located at a railway track and a former railway switchyard.
Kühnel, K.-D. & Blanke, I. & Große, W.-R. & Thiesmeier, B. (2020) -
Kühnel, K.-D. & Krone, A. (2004) -
Kühnel, K.-D. & Scharon, J. & Kitzmann, B. & Schonert, B. (2017) -
Aktuell kommen in Berlin sechs Reptilienarten vor, die autochthonen Bestände einer weiteren Art sind ausgestorben. Aufgrund der hier verwendeten Bewertungsmethodik des Bundesamtes für Naturschutz ergeben sich Änderungen gegenüber den vorhergehenden Listen, die nur teilweise realen Bestandsveränderungen entsprechen. Gegenüber der letzten Roten Liste konnte die dort als „ausgestorben“ bewertete Kreuzotter (Vipera berus) auf Berliner Gebiet wiederentdeckt werden und wird jetzt „als vom Aussterben bedroht“ geführt. Für eine weitere Schlangenart, die Schlingnatter (Coronella austriaca), liegen so wenige Daten vor, dass sie nicht bewertet werden konnte (Kategorie „D“). Die Waldeidechse (Zootoca vivipara) wurde gegenüber der vorhergehenden Roten Liste in eine höhere Gefährdungskategorie eingestuft, während die anderen drei Arten, in der Liste von 2005 noch als „gefährdet“ geführt, jetzt in die Vorwarnliste überführt wurden. Abgesehen von der Ringelnatter (Natrix natrix) halten aber bei allen Arten die Bestandsrückgänge an und die Einstufung in die Vorwarnliste erfolgte vor allem auf Grund der noch weiten Verbreitung dieser Arten.
Kühnel, K.-D. & Schwarzer, U. (1988) -
Kühnel, K.-D. & Sous, G. (2024) -
During a resettlement of reptiles from a planned construction area in the Brandenburg municipality of Velten, the effectiveness of drift fences was compared with bucket traps, wooden sheets and catching by hand for the capture of sand lizards, common lizards and slow worms. Of the two lacertid species, over 90% of the individuals were caught in the trapping fences, whereas more than 43,5% of the slow worms were found under wooden boards and 56,6% in trapping fences. In addition to the results on the efficiency of the catching methods, data on the phenology and annual activity of the three species are presented.
Kühnemann, K. (1981) -
Kühnis, J. (2006) -
This research report is the result of reptile observation in the Principality of Liechtenstein over several years and represents the actual type, distribution and threat to the indigenous species. Between 1960 and 2006, 1’426 records of reptiles have been reported. Most of the records (54.8 %) are made in the years between 1991 and 2006 only 3.4 % are dated before 1981. The following six native species of reptiles were confirmed: the slow worm (Anguis fragilis), the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), the common lizard (Lacerta (Zootaca) vivipara), the grasssnake (Natrix n. helvetica), the smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and the adder (Vipera berus). The common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) is not a native species; its present being is the result of human introduction. Due to the todays distribution, endagerment and population sizes of the species, the following conclusions may be drawn: The slow worm and the sand lizard are the most widespread species at lower and middle altitudes (430 – 600 m above sea level); the common lizard at higher altitudes in the mountain region (1200 –2000 m). In the Lowland its distribution is limited to two marshland areas. Also the distribution of the grass snake (our most widespread, but critically endangered snake species) is concentrated to humid areas of the lowland. The largest loss of species, with respect to area and populations concerns the smooth snake (= critically endangered species). The distribution of the adder is limited to the pre-alpine and alpine zone (1200 – 2100 m). In total, 67 % of all species are considered as endangered. Based on the presented spectrum of species, reptiles rank among the most threatened groups of animals of the country. Overall a negative balance can be seen. In the valley area the populations of all species show a constant decrease. Concern with this development tendency is the fact, that previously widespread species such as the sand lizard and grass snake are today endagered. The immediate introduction of supporting measures is necessary, otherwise we run the risk that this negative tendency will continue to worsen. Finally, in the practical part of the study protecting and helping measures are discussed and all important areas worth protecting are mentioned.
Kühnis, J. (2025) -
Im Rahmen eines regionalen Monitoringprojekts werden die Reptilienvorkommen in Liechtenstein seit Jahren systematisch überwacht. Ziel dieser periodischen Erhebungen ist es, die Verbreitung und Bestandesentwicklung der einzelnen Arten über einen längeren Zeitraum zu analysieren, Entwicklungstrends aufzuzeigen und konkrete Empfehlungen für die Naturschutzpraxis abzuleiten. Die vorliegende Synthese ermöglicht eine aktualisierte Übersicht zur Situation der einheimischen Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) und der allochthonen Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis), deren Vorkommen im Alpenrheintal auf Aussetzungen, Einschleppungen sowie Einwanderungen aus bereits etablierten Populationen in angrenzenden Gebieten zurückzuführen sind. Die Gesamtbeurteilung der beiden evaluierten Arten für den Beobachtungszeitraum von 1980–2023 (basierend auf einem Datensatz von 809 Nachweisen für die Zauneidechse und 552 Nachweisen der Mauereidechse) fällt ambivalent aus: Während sich im Mehrjahresvergleich bei der Zauneidechse eine rückläufige Entwicklungstendenz (v. a. entlang des Rheindammes und im Siedlungsraum) feststellen lässt, zeigt sich bei der Mauereidechse eine deutliche Arealerweiterung. Die anpassungsfähige und mobile Art besiedelt den Rheindamm zwischenzeitlich flächendeckend und hat sich im Siedlungsraum weiter ausgedehnt, wo sie in Rebbergen, Industriearealen und Deponien teils hohe Dichten ausweist. Erstaunlicherweise wird die Bahnlinie (im Vergleich zur Situation in der Schweiz) bislang nur punktuell besiedelt. Zudem deuten die Kartierungsbefunde am Rheindamm, wo die Zauneidechse vor dem Auftreten der Mauereidechse früher noch weit verbreitet war, auf eine Konkurrenzierung und Verdrängung durch diese allochthone Art hin.
Kühnis, J. & Müller, O. (2015) -
Im Rahmen eines regionalen Überwachungsprogrammes werden die Reptilienvorkommen im 160 km2 großen Liechtenstein periodisch kontrolliert. Ziel dieses Montorings ist die systematische Überprüfung der Verbreitungs- und Gefährdungssituation der Zielarten (Zauneidechse, Ringelnatter, Schlingnatter, Kreuzotter und der allochthonen Mauereidechse) sowie die Abschätzung von Bestandsentwicklungen. Die Bilanz (basierend auf einem Datensatz von 2198 Nachweisen für den Zeitraum von 1980–2014) fällt sehr ambivalent aus: Während sich im Mehrjahresvergleich bei der Kreuzotter eine stabile Entwicklung abzeichnet, lässt sich bei der Zauneidechse eine rückläufige und bei der Schlingnatter stark rückläufige Entwicklungstendenz feststellen. Die Arealentwicklung der Ringelnatter ist relativ stabil, die Bestandsentwicklung jedoch seit Jahrzehnten rückläufig. In der heute dicht besiedelten Kulturlandschaft zeigt sich bei allen Arten mit Verbreitungsschwerpunkt im Talraum (430– 600 m) eine auffällige Konzentration der Vorkommen in den noch verbliebenen Sekundärlebensräumen am Rhein- und Bahndamm sowie den Rüfegebieten. In Expansion befindet sich die allochthone Mauereidechse, die sich seit den 1980er Jahren massiv in der Region ausbreitet.
Kühnis, J. & Schmocker, H. & Steger, G.-L. (2011) -
Kühnis, J.B. & Huber, D. (1997) -
Kühnis, J.B. & P. Niederklopfer (2010) -
Im vorliegenden Jahresbericht werden ausgewählte, besonders erwähnenswerte Beobachtungen und Ergebnisseaus den fortlaufenden regionalen Amphibien- und Reptilienkartierungen aufgeführt. Die folgenden Befunde lassen sich stichwortartig wie folgt zusammenfassen:– Seefrosch und Mauereidechse weiter im Vormarsch – Rückläufige Amphibienbestände an vielen Zugstellen – Seit 1998 über 1000 Kinder für das Thema Amphibien sensibilisiert – Erfreulich viele Nachweise der Ringelnatter und Kreuzotter – Kreuzotterbiss im Malbun und Geckofund in Balzers
Kühnis, J.B. & Schmocker, H. (2008) -
Kuipers, P.H. (1969) -
Kukkala, A. & Maiorano, L. & Thuiller, W. & Arponen, A. (2019) -
The concept of National responsibility species (NRS) was developed to coordinate the conservation efforts of species occurring in multiple countries. Calculated as the fraction of the global species` distribution within a country, it measures the contribution of a local population to global survival of the species. However, there may be more co-occurring species in one region than another, making the conservation of a species more cost-efficient in the first than the latter. If cost-efficient resource allocation is the goal, then identifying NRS should also be based on spatial priorities. We propose that a species is considered NRS when a large part of its distribution falls within high priority areas in a country. We identify NRS from spatial conservation prioritization outputs to (1) maximize the overall cost-efficiency of allocation of conservation resources and (2) to provide information about which species the spatial priorities are based on. We analyzed data on vertebrates in the Birds and Habitats directives in the EU28 countries and compared the traditional NRS measure to three alternative strategies. While the majority of species maintained their NRS status in most countries regardless of the approach, differences occurred, with varying numbers and identities of responsibility species in a country, or responsibilities for species shifting between countries. The differences were largest in geographically marginal countries and for species that were distributed across a few countries. Other NRS approaches may also be useful, and the choice of approach should ultimately depend on the purpose and complement information on conservation status in decision-making.
Kukushkin, O. & Ermakov, O. & Gherghel, I. & Lukonina, S. & Svinin, A. & Doronin, I. & Simonov, E. & Jablonski, D. (2021) -
The Lindholm rock lizard, Darevskia lindholmi, is the only member of the genus Darevskia whose range is restricted solely to Europe, representing a local endemism found only in the Crimean Mountains. In our study, we investigated the cytochrome b gene (mtDNA) of 101 D. lindholmi sequences from 65 Crimean localities, representing its entire range. We found that D. lindholmi is highly genetically structured, and its range is divided into populations belonging to three mitochondrial lineages. The Lindholm rock lizard populations inhabiting the middle part of the Crimean Mountains (further referred to as the Central lineage) are sharply differ entiated from the other two lineages (the Common and the Southwestern lineages), which are present in most of the species range. The genetic distance between the Central lineage and the other two taken together is 4.6%, according to our results, suggesting that the divergence occurred during the Early Pleistocene. The narrowly distributed Southwestern lineage and the widespread Common lineage, on the other hand, are differentiated by 1%. Field observations on the representatives of the main evolutionary groups show that their ecology is also different: the Central lineage is a mesophilic and cold-resistant form, while the other two closely related lineages are more xerophilic and thermophilic. Results of the potential ranges modeling and ecological niche analysis confirm that the genetic lineages occupy different niches of the Crimea. Furthermore, the area of inhabitation of the Central lineage splits the western and eastern parts of the Common lineage range, while the Southwestern lineage is restricted along the coast of the southwestern coast of the peninsula. The long-term co-existence of deeply divergent sister mitochondrial lineages in a relatively small (circa 7,000 km2) isolated mountain system serves as a mesocosm for understanding the speciation process. Our data suggest that the Central lineage warrants further taxonomic investigation.
Kukushkin, O. & Tillack, F. & Doronin, I. & Kluge, N. & Jablonski, D. (2024) -
From the beginning of the 19th century to the present, the authorship of the description of the Balkan wall lizard, Podarcis tauricus (Pallas, 1814) was considered undoubted. Recently, Schmidtler (2022) has been concluded that the description of this species should be attributed to J.G. Georgi. Therefore we have chosen to discuss this issue. The description of Lacerta taurica by Georgi in 1801 was based on earlier works by C.L. Hablitz (1785, 1789). However, his description does not align with our current understanding of the morphological and ecological characteristics of the taxon currently recognized as P. tauricus. Some details contained in this description suggest that it was based not on the species recently known as Podarcis tauricus, but on another lizard inhabiting the same place and recently known as Darevskia lindholmi (Szczerbak, 1962). If recognize authorship of the name Lacerta taurica as belonging to Georgi (1801), this would require transferring that name to the species currently known as D. lindholmi and the need to introduce a new name for the species currently known as P. taurica, that will cause numerous confusions. To provide the stability of the names, we suggest to continue to regard Pallas (1814) as the author of the name Lacerta taurica and will apply to the Commissuion of Zoological Nomenlature for conservation of this status. Regrettably, a specimen collected by Pallas himself in Crimea has not been located until now. However, the search for preserved historic specimens continues.
Kukushkin, O.V. (2024) -
In the course of multi-year field research (2002–2022, and partially 2023) in the Ka- radag Nature Reserve (southeastern Crimea; 44.9o N, 35.2o E) the seasonal activity frame and terms of the emergence of juveniles were studied in two common species of lacertids: the Bal- kan wall lizard (Podarcis tauricus) and the Crimean rock lizard (Darevskia lindholmi). Activity during the winter period is characteristic for both species: over 22 years of observations, P. tau- ricus and D. lindholmi were observed in the winter months during 20 and 16 seasons, respec- tively. In P. tauricus the average for all years dates of the first and last observations of active individuals are February 13 and December 4; those in D. lindholmi are February 18 and No- vember 26. The length of the activity period, determined by the dates of the first and last rec- ords, in P. tauricus is 65–91% of the total duration of the year, and in D. lindholmi is 62–89% of the year. The duration of the period of full activity (from the beginning of the species’ regu- lar activity to the hibernation) is 236–321 days (273 days on average) in P. tauricus, and 227– 302 days (260 days on average) in D. lindholmi. Egg-laying in P. tauricus occurs mainly in May–July (two clutches per season), while in D. lindholmi it occurs in July, but may continue into August (usually the only clutch per year). Therefore, the average for all years dates of the first registration of hatchlings differ by approximately seven weeks: July 12 in P. tauricus, Au- gust 29 in D. lindholmi. The timing of the emergence of yearlings of both species is positively correlated at a statistically significant level. In both species, a statistically significant correlation with the climatic characteristics of the area of study was found for a number of phenological phenomena. In many cases, the relationship between the phases of the lizards` life cycle and climatic parameters at the trend level was confirmed.
О.В. Кукушкин (2024) -
В процессе многолетних исследований (2002 – 2024 гг.) в Карадагском при- родном заповеднике (юго-восточный Крым; 44.9o с. ш., 35.2o в. д.) изучены сезонные рамки активности и сроки появления сеголеток двух фоновых видов Настоящих ящериц – крымской (Podarcis tauricus) и Линдгольма (Darevskia lindholmi). Активность в зимний пе- риод характерна для обоих видов: на протяжении 22 лет наблюдений P. tauricus и D. lind- holmi наблюдались в зимние месяцы в течение 20 и 16 сезонов соответственно. Средне- многолетние даты первой и последней встреч P. tauricus – 13 февраля и 4 декабря, D. lind- holmi – 18 февраля и 26 ноября соответственно. Продолжительность периода активности, определяемая по датам первой и последней встреч, у P. tauricus составляет 65 – 91% общей продолжительности года, у D. lindholmi – 62 – 89%. Длина периода полной активности (от начала регулярной активности до ухода на зимовку) равна 236 – 321 суток (в среднем 273) у P. tauricus и 227 – 302 суток (в среднем 260) у D. lindholmi. Откладка яиц у P. tauricus приходится преимущественно на май – июль (две кладки за сезон), у D. lindholmi – на июль, но может продолжаться в августе (как правило, единственная кладка в году). Сред- немноголетние даты первой регистрации сеголеток P. tauricus и D. lindholmi отличаются примерно на семь недель: 12 июля и 29 августа соответственно. Cроки появления молод- няка обоих видов положительно скоррелированы на статистически значимом уровне. У обоих видов для ряда фенологических явлений найдена статистически значимая корре- ляция с климатическими характеристиками местности. Во многих случаях подтверждена связь фаз жизненного цикла ящериц и климатических параметров на уровне тренда.
Kukushkin, O.V. & Doronin, I.V. & Tuniyev, B.S. & Ananjeva, N.B. & Doronina, M.A. (2017) -
An overview of the cases of introduction (both accidental and intentional) of amphibians and reptiles in the Caucasus and Crimea is provided. The introduction cases are systemized in accordance with the goals and ways of introduction and with regards to the expected scale of the impact and its nature. No negative consequences of the introduction of amphibian and reptile species in the Crimea and Caucasus are currently observed on any of the known examples. No cases of species naturalization, which the “invasion” term can be applied to, have been revealed. The importance of allochthonous populations as experimental sites to study microevolutionary processes and ecological adaptations of the species in new environmental conditions is discussed.
Кукушкин О.В., Доронин И.В., Туниев Б.С., Ананьева Н.Б., Доронина М.А. (2017) -
Представлен обзор случаев интродукции (как случайной, так и преднамеренной) земноводных и пресмыкаю- щихся на Кавказе и в Крыму. Факты интродукции систематизированы по целям и путям проникновения живот- ных с учетом предполагаемого масштаба воздействия и характера влияния на природные комплексы. Негатив- ные последствия интродукции видов земноводных и пресмыкающихся в Крыму и на Кавказе в настоящее время не прослеживаются ни на одном из известных нам примеров; случаи натурализации видов, к которым обосно- ванно может быть применен термин «инвазия», не выявлены. Рассмотрено значение аллохтонных популяций как экспериментальных полигонов для изучения микроэволюционных процессов и экологических адаптаций видов в новых для них условиях.
Kukushkin, O.V. & Doronin, I.V. (2013) -
The paper presents new data on the geographic distribution and frequency of colour aberration cineracea Szczerbak, 1960 (= concolor) in Podarcis tauricus from the Crimea. It is established that the finds of individuals belonging to this aberration are grouped at the junctions of landscapes of the Crimean Mountains, where the ancient geochemical boundaries are localized. The majority of aberrant specimens were found in populations living on the Upper Jurassic conglomerates containing pebbles of crystalline rocks, and within the Middle Jurassic volcanic massif of Karadagh. The frequency of manifestation of this mutagenic type of color is almost independent of the altitude above sea level and more likely it is determined by geochemical composition of rocks prevailing in the locality which indirectly affects the synthesis of melanin pigment, rather than by climatic characteristics of the habitat. In addition, a description of the unique color aberration plumbea, discovered in a single locality in the Sudak District of the Crimea near the upper limit of the species distribution, is provided.
О.В. Кукушкин, И.В. Доронин (2013) -
В статье приводятся новые данные о географическом распространении и частоте встречаемости аберрации окраски cineracea Szczerbak, 1960 (= concolor) у Podarcis tauricus в Крыму. Установлено, что находки особей, относящихся к данной аберрации, группируются на стыках ландшафтов Горного Крыма, где проходят древние геохимические рубежи. Большинство аберрантных экземпляров выявлено в популяциях, обитающих на верхнеюрских конгломератах, содержащих гальки кристаллических пород, и в пределах среднеюрского вулканического массива Карадаг. Частота проявления данного мутагенного типа окраски практически не зависит от высоты местности н.у.м. и с большей вероятностью определяется не климатическими характеристиками местообитания, а геохимическим составом преобладающих в локалитете горных пород, опосредованно влияющим на синтез пигмента меланина. Кроме того, приводится описание уникальной аберрации окраски plumbea, выявленной в единственном локалитете в Судакском районе Крыма близ верхней границы распространения вида.
Kukushkin, O.V. & Ermakov, O.A. & Ivanov, A.Yu. & Doronin, I.V. & Sviridenko, E.Yu. & Simonov, E.P. & Gorelov, R.A. & Khramova, M.A. & Blokhin, I.G. (2020) -
The contact zones of the distribution ranges of closely related reptile taxa are the source of valuable data on the microevolutionary processes in populations, the history of regional faunas origin, and the environmental prefer- ences of the studied forms. Our study is focused on the genetic structure of the populations of sand lizard, Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758, at the Crimean peninsula. This lacertid species inhabits the mountain (afforested) and plain (steppe) parts of the Crimea, being abundant or common in many areas. Lacerta agilis is represented in the Crimea by two subspecies: the widely distributed Eastern (L. a. exigua Eichwald, 1831) inhabiting a large part of Northern Eurasia, and the endemic (L. a. tauridica Suchow, 1927) residing in the Crimean mountains. Mitochondrial hap- logroup affiliation corresponding to one of the subspecies (L. a. tauridica, L. a. exigua or L. a. chersonensis) was established for 225 L. agilis individuals from 81 localities in the Crimea and adjacent mainland territories. The nu- cleotide sequences of the complete cytochrome b gene of mitochondrial DNA (1143 bp) were studied in 75 L. agilis individuals from 68 localities. The genetic distance between both subspecies inhabiting the Crimea revealed by used molecular marker comprised 2.8%, which indicates their early divergence approximately at the transition of Early to Middle Pleistocene (ca. 1 Mya). L. a. tauridica is characterized by a comparatively deep genetic structure. Haplotypes occupying isolated positions on the phylogenetic tree of this subspecies were found in the south-west- ern part of the Crimean Mountains, what might be explained by the localization of L. agilis microrefugia in areas least affected by the Late Pleistocene cooling. Genetic structure of L. a. exigua is more homogeneous. Another important result of our study was an identification of zones of haplogroups «exigua» and «tauridica» coexistence localized along the northern and eastern margins of the Crimean Mountains. The portion of the «exigua» hap- logroup in local populations decreases southward and westward. The observed pattern of the spatial distribution of haplogroups seems to be a result of the hybridization zone formation between the sand lizard subspecies during the Holocene expansion of L. a. exigua. Ecological niches modeling for L. agilis subspecies and analysis of morpho- logical variability of the lizards support the hypothesis of L. a. exigua and L. a. tauridica hybridization in the area of contact of their ranges in the eastern part of the Crimean Mountains.
Кукушкин, О.В. & Ермаков, О.А. & Иванов А.Ю. & Доронин И.В. & Свириденко Е.Ю. & Симонов Е.П. & Горелов Р.А. & Храмова М.А. & Блохин И.Г. (2020) -
Зоны контакта ареалов близкородственных таксонов пресмыкающихся являются источником ценных сведений о микроэволюционных процессах в популяциях, истории формирования региональных фаун и экологических преференциях изучаемых форм. В фокусе нашего исследования находилась молеку- лярно-генетическая структура популяций прыткой ящерицы, Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758, Крымского полуострова. Этот вид лацертид распространен в горно-лесной и равнинно-степной частях Крыма, на многих участках являясь фоновым, и представлен в Крыму двумя подвидами: широкоареальным вос- точным (L. a. exigua Eichwald, 1831), населяющим значительную часть Северной Евразии, и эндемич- ным горно-крымским (L. a. tauridica Suchow, 1927). Для 225 особей L. agilis из 81 локалитета в Крыму (с прилежащими территориями) была установлена принадлежность к митохондриальной гаплогруппе, соответствующей одному из подвидов: L. a. tauridica, L. a. exigua или L. a. chersonensis. Нуклеотидные последовательности полноразмерного гена цитохрома b митохондриальной ДНК (1143 п.н.) изучены у 75 особей L. agilis из 68 локалитетов. Генетическая дистанция между обитающими в Крыму подвидами, по молекулярному маркеру, составила 2.8%, что свидетельствует об их давней дивергенции, возраст ко- торой может быть предварительно отнесен к рубежу раннего и среднего плейстоцена (около 1 млн. лет). Для L. a. tauridica характерна достаточно глубокая генетическая структурированность. Гаплотипы, за- нимающие обособленные позиции на филогенетическом древе данного подвида, выявлены на юго-за- паде Горного Крыма, что может быть связано с локализацией микрорефугиумов в районе полуострова,наименее затронутом похолоданием позднего плейстоцена. Генетическая структура L. a. exigua более однородна. Другим важным результатом стало выявление зон совместного обитания представителей гаплогрупп «exigua» и «tauridica», локализованных вдоль северной и восточной окраин Горного Крыма. Доля в популяциях особей гаплогруппы «exigua» снижается в направлении на запад и юг. Наблюдаемая картина пространственного распределения гаплогрупп, по-видимому, является результатом форми- рования в низкогорных местностях зоны гибридизации подвидов прыткой ящерицы при экспансии L. a. exigua в голоцене. Моделирование экологических ниш подвидов и анализ морфологической из- менчивости ящериц дают дополнительные аргументы в пользу высказанного нами предположения о гибридизации L. a. exigua и L. a. tauridica в зоне контакта их ареалов в восточной части Горного Крыма.
Kukushkin, O.V. & Lukonina, S.A. & Simonov, E.P. & Doronin, I.V. & Ermakov, O.A. (2021) -
Kukushkin, O.V. & Sviridenko, E.Yu. (2002) -
Kukushkin, O.V. & Trofimov, A.G. & Turbanov, I.S. & Slodkevich, V.Y. (2019) -
This work summarizes information on the distribution and status of the populations of amphibians and reptiles of the city of Sevastopol. Data obtained over a quarter of a century were refined by a targeted herpetological examination of the entire territory of Sevastopol (over 1000 km2) in 2018 and early 2019. Most species of am- phibians and reptiles known in Crimea are recorded from the Sevastopol Region, with the exception of some taxa that inhabit only or mainly plains environments (Pelobates vespertinus, Eremias arguta, and Lacerta agilis exigua). Most taxa included in the Red Book of Sevastopol, to date, retain stable populations. Apparently, Vi- pera renardi has disappeared from the region. Analysis of the taxon chorotypes indicates a dominance of spe- cies of Mediterranean (sensu lato) origin. The mild climate of the southwestern part of the Crimean Peninsula determines the unique spatial distribution of the most thermophilic reptile species (Mediodactylus danilewskii, Pseudopus apodus, and Zamenis situla) and, in particular, their wide distribution on the northern macroslope of the Crimean Mountains and (or) the highest elevations in Crimea. The zoning of the territory of Sevastopol, according to herpetological data, made it possible to identify eight districts that differ clearly in species compo- sition and population density of background and rare species. On a national scale, the territory of Sevastopol is important for the conservation of the genetic diversity of species such as Triturus karelinii, M. danilewskii, Ps. apodus, Z. situla, Dolichophis caspius, and Elaphe sauromates. Currently, the state of the populations of T. karelinii, Emys orbicularis, and El. sauromates is most alarming. Scientifically important natural and some synanthropic (in the Khersonesos of Taurida) populations of M. danilewskii, as well as relic populations of the Crimean endemic Lacerta agilis tauridica, require close attention. The “Baydarskyi”, “Cape Aya” and “Laspi” state regional wildlife sanctuaries play the most significant role in preserving the herpetofauna of the region, covering the upper part of the Chernaya River basin (Main Range) and the extreme southwestern part of the Southern Coast of Crimea, as well as the Mekenzievskoe Forestry in the foothills.
Kukushkin, O.V. & Turbanov, I.S. & Gorelov, R.A. & Trofimov, A.G. (2021) -
New data on the boundaries of the range of the Lindholm lizard (Darevskia lindholmi), an endemic of the Crimean peninsula, are presented. The species is petrophilic and inhabits a wide range of biotopes in various landscape layers of the Crimean Mountains. The upper boundary of the distribution of D. lindholmi in the southwest of the Main Ridge of the Crimean Mountains reaches 1520 m above sea level. m. (Ai-Petrinskaya yayla, Mount Kemal-Egerek), while on other highlands with maximum heights of over 1.5 km, but colder climate (Babugan, Chatyrdag), the species was traced only up to 1250-1320 m above sea level. m. The northern border of the D. lindholmi range in the western part of the Crimean Mountains runs along the Outer piedmont ridge (right bank of the Alma River), while in the eastern one, along the last rock massifs of the Inner piedmont ridge north of 45 ° N. Isolated peripheral populations found in the forest-steppe or frigan-steppe landscapes of the Crimean foothills and the arid South-East coast differ significantly in their remoteness from the main range, the number and density of the lizard population. A hypothetical history of the formation of the current range of D. lindholmi is discussed.
О.В. Кукушкин, И.С. Турбанов , Р.А. Горелов & А.Г. Трофимов (2021) -
Приводятся новые данные о границах ареала ящерицы Линдгольма (Darev- skia lindholmi) – эндемика Крымского полуострова. Вид характеризуется петрофиль- ностью и населяет широкий спектр биотопов в различных ландшафтных ярусах Горного Крыма. Верхняя граница распространения D. lindholmi на юго-западе Главной гряды Крымских гор достигает 1520 м над ур. м. (Ай-Петринская яйла, гора Кемаль-Эгерек), тог- да как на других нагорьях с максимальными высотами свыше 1.5 км, но более холодным климатом (Бабуган, Чатырдаг) вид прослежен лишь до 1250 – 1320 м над ур. м. Северная граница ареала D. lindholmi в западной части Горного Крыма проходит по Внешней пред- горной гряде (правый берег р. Альма), тогда как в восточной – по последним скальным массивам Внутренней предгорной гряды севернее 45° с.ш. Изолированные периферичес- кие популяции, выявленные в лесостепных или фриганно-степных ландшафтах Крым- ского предгорья и засушливого Юго-Восточного побережья, существенно различаются по своей удаленности от основного ареала, численности и плотности населения ящериц. Обсуждается гипотетическая история становления современного ареала D. lindholmi.
Kulagin, N.M. (1888) -
Kuljerić, M. & Šilić, T. & Šalamon, D. (2007) -
On a surface area of only 56 542 km2, making for 0, 5% of European territory, Croatia harbours a rich herpetofauna of 21 amphibian and 36 reptile species, which is 26, 9% and 34, 8% of European species richess, respectively. This relatively high biodiversity can be attributed to a high diversity of habitat types and the position of Croatia in the area of four major european biogeographical regions. Since most of the country was left outside ice-cover in the glacials, it served as one of the refuges for European herpetofauna. The specificity of Croatian herpetofauna is characterized by: - high degree of endemism: 11 regionally endemic species and 6 local endems, 9 species with restricted areals in Europe - isolation on islands has produced a number of spatially restricted forms of Podarcis sicula and P. melisellensis whose taxonomic status is still under review, but at least several of them can be considered as endemic subspecies - edges of species` distribution areals for 16 species - hybridisation zones for Pelophylax ridibundus and P.lessonae, Bombina bombina and B. variegata, Triturus carnifex and T. dobrogicus and contact zone for Lacerta bilineata and L. viridis - eight species listed in IUCN red list, categories NT to EN The existing literature on herpetofauna in Croatia is scarce and unsystematic. Published data is summarized and previously unpublished data from field workers is gathered to give an account of a current knowledge of herpetofauna distribution. Species distributions and diversity according to biogeographical regions, type of habitat and altitude are given.
Kumar, G.C. & Srinivasulus, C. & Prasad, K.K. (2017) -
Kumlutaş, Y. (1996) -
In this study, a total of 333 L. viridis specimens. 114 ♂ ♂ 144 ♀♀, 56 Subadult and 19 Juveniles, collected from Black Sea region of Anatolia were examined .These specimens collected from 8 different regions (Adapazan, Bolu, Zonguldak, Kastamonu, Sinop, Samsun, Ordu, Giresun) were considered according to their morphological characters, habitat features, geographical distribution and taxonomical status. As a result of this study, of the 3 subspecies given previously from the Black Sea Region, only the presence of L viridis meridionalis is confirmed.
Kumlutaş, Y. & Baran, I. & Taşkavak, E. & Ilgaz, C. & Avci, A. (2002) -
Kumlutaş, Y. & Durmuş, S.H. & Ilgaz, Ç. (2011) -
In this study, amphibian and reptile species distributed in the vicinity of Kaş and Kekova Islands were recorded. A total of 20 different species were recorded. Of these species, in an urodelan, three are anurans, one is a tortoise, 10 are lizards and six are snakes.
Bu çalışmada Kaş civarı ve Kekova Adası’nda dağılış gösteren kurbağa ve sürüngen türleri tespit edilerek bölgeye ait eksik bilgiler giderilmeye çalışılmıştır. Araştırma sahasından 20 tür tespit edilmiştir. Bunlardan biri kuyruklu kurbağa, üçü kuyruksuz kurbağa, biri kara kaplumbağası, dokuzu kertenkele ve altısı yılan grubundandır.
Kumlutaş, Y. & Durmus, S.H. & Kaska, Y. & Öz, M. & Tunic, R. (2004) -
The morphometric measurements of taxonomically important characters, coloration, and pholidosis features of 74 Lacerta parva specimens collected from West Taurus, Turkey were investigated. Statistical analyses were done and these results were compared with those from relevant literature. Some of the characters were found to be different on the specimens from different localities. New localities from southwest Turkey were also discovered during this study.
Kumlutaş, Y. & Ilgaz, C. & Yakar, O. (2017) -
Turkey has very high biodiversity, due to its various topographical, geological, and climatic features. Although previous studies have dealt with amphibians and reptiles from Karabük province no detailed study has yet been conducted on the herpetofauna of Karabük province. Here, we provide some records for herpetofauna of Karabük province and contribute to the literature on the Turkish herpetofauna. This study was carried out from March to June 2014. The specimens of amphibians and reptiles were collected using different techniques according to habitat conditions. The systematics of the examined materials was studied using current literature. Also, the conservation status of the species was given with national and international agreements in which Turkey is included. Result of the fieldwork conducted in Karabük province, 17 reptile species (two turtles, one tortoise, seven lizards, and seven snakes) and seven amphibian species (one urodelans, six anurans) were determined. According to our results, Parvilacerta parva, Lacerta viridis, Zamenis longissimus, Coronella austriaca and Elaphe sauromates are new records for Karabük province. This study underlines the importance of Karabük province as a herpetological area.
Kumlutaş, Y. & Olgun, K. (1999) -
In this study, a total of 29 specimens (16 , 10 and 3 juvenile) collected from Ihlara Valley were examined. The study was based on pholidosis, coloration and pattern, and body measurement as well as ecological and biologic observations. In conclusion it was determened that the population in the vicinity of Aksaray possess the same features as the nominate subspecies.
Kumlutaş, Y. & Öz, M. & Tunç, M.R. & Düşen, S. & Özdemir, A. (2003) -
In this study, a total of 60 specimens (33 ♂♂, 16 ♀♀, 5 juv.) collected from south-western Anatolia were examined. The study was based on pholidosis, coloration and pattern and body measurements also some ecological observations were made. In conclusion, it was determined that the population from south-western Anatolia possess the same features as the subspecies L. d. pelasgiana.
Bu çalışmada Güneybatı Anadolu’dan toplanan Lacerta danfordi türüne ait 33 ♂♂, 16 ♀♀,6 s.ad., 5 juv. bireyden oluşan toplam 60 numune incelenmiştir. Bu numuneler pholidosis, renk-desen, vücut ölçüleri bakımından ele alınmış, ayrıca ekolojik gözlemlere de yer verilmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda Güneybatı Anadolu populasyonunun L. d. pelasgiana alttürü ile benzer özelliklere sahip olduğu ortaya çıkarılmıştır.
Kumlutaş, Y. & Ozdemir, A. & Ilgaz, C. & Tosunoglu, M. (2004) -
The herpetofauna of Bozdag in western Anatolia was investigated. In the study area, 152 samples belonging to 22 species from 14 amphibian and reptile families were described. One of these species is an urodelan, 5 are anurans, 1 is a tortoise, 10 are lizards and 5 are snakes.
Kumlutaş, Y. & Taskavak, E. & Baran, I. & Ilgaz, Ç. & Avci, A. (2002) -
This study substantiates the presence of Mesalina brevirostris BLANFORD, 1874 in Turkey. A total of nine specimens (five males and four females) was collected from Akçakale (§anliurfa) in the vicinity of the Turkish- Syrian border on May 6 and 7, 2002. The pholidosis characteristics of the nine specimens recorded from Akçakale are quite similar to those given by various researchers for Syrian specimens. According to the numbers ofdorsalia, the Akçakale specimens (49.0 - 57.0, mean 53.2) have clearly greater values than those in eastern and central Syria (36.0 - 47.0, mean 40.3). Regarding metric, meristic, colour and pattern characteristics, the nine specimens from south-eastern Anatolia appear assignable to the typical form, M. brevirostris brevirostris.
Kumlutaş, Y. & Tok, V. & Türkozan, O. (1998) -
In this study, 17 reptile and amphibian species were recorded from 19 different localities in the Ordu-Giresun region. Of these, 3 belong to the urodelans species group, 6 belong to anurans, 4 belong to lizards and 4 belong to snakes.
Küng, N. (2013) -
Kunz, K. (2002) -
Kupriyanova, L. (2009) -
Extensive karyological, allozyme and molecular genetic analyses of many parthenogenetic lizards confirm the origin of these species by hybridization. The concept of reticulate (hybridogeneous) speciation based on 3 interrelated phenomena such as hybridization-unisexuality-polyploidy has been elaborated. Cytogenetic and genetic variability and some regular trends in the evolution of hybrid unisexual species have been demonstrated. Cytogenetic investigations of unisexual-bisexual complex lizards of the genus Darevskia (formerly Lacerta) in the family Lacertidae suggest that some characteristics of their karyotypes play a role in the evolution of parthenogenesis. The maternal species with advanced w sex microchromosomes (Zw type) appeared to be successful in hybridization and produced the diploid unisexual species. The polyploid back-cross hybrids between said diploids and bisexual parent species exhibited many chromosome aberrations which were associated with their complete or partial sterility. In addition, the karyotype and the structure of mitotic and meiotic lampbrush chromosomes in 2 species and in some back-cross hybrids of this unisexual-bisexual complex have been examined here using molecular cytogenetic techniques. The genomic and functional disturbances, genomic interactions between homeologous chromosomes, and possibly both genomic imprinting and the presence of mobile elements are some cytogenetic mechanisms that increase genetic diversity in hybrid parthenogenetic species.
Kupriyanova, L. & Böhme, W. & Kirschey, T. (2021) -
Kupriyanova, L. & Kirschey, T. & Böhme, W. (2017) -
The widely distributed viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein 1823) revealed considerable differences in physiology, karyology, molecular genetics, and natural history. Based on chromosomal and mtDNA data several distinct karyotypic forms and haplotypes have been described from Central Europe. In an attempt to further clarify the geographic distribution of two karyologically different forms within the viviparous, nominotypic Z. v. vivipara, we studied the karyotypes of specimens from two NE German localities in West Pomerania (Baltic Sea) and Brandenburg, respectively, and also of those from Mt. Kopaonik in Serbia. All individuals karyotyped represented the western form of Z. v. vivipara that differs from other chromosomal forms of Central Europe in several karyotype characters. It inhabits the south coast of the Baltic Sea between the German harbor city of Kiel in the west and the Russian harbor city of Kaliningrad in the east. Recently, the eastern, so-called Russian form of Z. v. vivipara was recorded also in the Kaliningrad exclave, in Belarus near the border Belarus-Poland and even in easternmost Poland, then further eastwards along the Baltic Sea coast including Finland. Our data show that easternmost German populations still belong to the western form, as it is also the case in the SE European Serbian locality sampled. Together with previous data sets, our results document chromosomal uniformity within the western form of Z. v. vivipara from the Baltic Sea coast to the Carpathian basin and the central Balkans, and earlier hypotheses of the postglacial recolonization of the Baltic Sea basin by Z. vivipara are corroborated.
Kupriyanova, L. & Kuksin, A. & Odierna, G. (2008) -
According to a hypothesis of the evolution of viviparity the lacertid lizard Zootoca vivipara, rare oviparous populations of the species might occur in southern-eastern part of its distribution area. Such a hypothesis has been verified by comparing the karyotype, chromosome structure, and reproductive modality of three populations of south-eastern part of Russia, including Altai and neighbouring regions, where small territories remained isolated during the Pleistocene cooling and where Pleistocenic fossils of Z. vivipara have been found. The chromosomal study was carried out by conventional staining method and banding methods, namely C-banding and sequential staining of C-banding+ fluorochromes, CMA³ and DAPI. All studied females displayed viviparous reproductive modality and showed a karyotype of 2N = 35 acrocentric chromosomes, with a Z1Z²W sex chromosome system. Chromosome W was subtelocentric. No inter-population variability on karyotype and heterochromatin distribution and composition was observed. From the onbtained data the three studied south-eastern Russian viviparous populations belong to the Russian viviparous form of Z. v. vivipara.
Kupriyanova, L. & Mayer, W. & Böhme, W. (2006) -
We sampled seven populations of Zootoca vivipara from Central Europe (6 Austrian, 1 German) and found several chromosomal forms inhabiting this region: (1) oviparous Z.v. carniolica, (2) ovoviviparous form from Hungary and southern Austria with the same karyotypic characters, (3) ovoviviparous western form, and (4) ovoviviparous form in the NE Alps including the type locality, which is caryologically similar to the NE Austrian Pannonian lowland populations and the ovoviviparous Russian form. Austria is characterized by high chromosomal diversity in Z. vivipara, housing 3 different ovoviviparous chromosomal forms plus an oviparous one. Together with other data sets, our results corroborate the hypothesis of a multiple origin of viviparity in this species.
Kupriyanova, L. & Melashchenko, O. (2015) -
The data on the karyotype of the viviparous lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein 1823), from six early un studied geographical localities of northeastern Europe (Kaliningrad oblast, western Russia) are presented. Asa result, two different chromosomal forms of the nominative subspecies were found: Russian (southeasternKaliningrad oblast) and western (northwestern, central, southern, and southeastern Kaliningrad oblast). TheRussian form is with 2n = 35 in the female karyotype, where W sex chromosome is acrocentric (A) and thewestern form with 2n = 35 in the female karyotype, where the W sex chromosome is submetacentric (SV).The former form was first found in one locality from the southeastern part of the oblast, near the border be tween Russia–Poland–Lithuania. This form is a rare one and, according to the chromosomal data, it colo nizes the region from northeastern Poland and western Belarus, whereas the latter is presented in many partsof Kaliningrad oblast and colonizes this territory from other regions of Poland and Germany. Unlike centralEurope, their mosaic distribution was not observed. However, two new zones (I – central eastern zone andII – narrow southeastern zone) of a secondary contact between these forms in northeastern Europe were dis covered. The intraspecies karyotype diversity and several new zones of the secondary contact between the de scribed forms may be assumed on the territory of different countries in the Baltic region (Germany, Poland,Lithuania, Latvia), as well as in Scandinavia (Finland, Sweden and Norway).
Kupriyanova, L. & Niskanen, M. & Oksanen, T.A. (2014) -
The wide-ranging Eurasian common lizard Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823) is remarkably uniform morphologically but highly varied in its karyotype. Previous studies have revealed two distinctly different chromosomal forms of Z. v. vivipara in the Baltic basin. Moreover, a zone of secondary contact between these forms has been localized on the southern Baltic Sea seashore. Intraspecific karyotype diversity for Z. vivipara and new zones of secondary contact have recently been suggested for other parts of the Baltic Sea seashore. We studied the karyotype of Z. vivipara in central, western and northern parts of Finland. All the individuals karyotyped represented the Russian form of Z. v. vivipara that differs from the western form of the subspecies located at the southern and western Baltic Sea seashore. Together with previous data sets, our results suggest intraspecific karyotype diversity in the northern and northwestern parts of Fennoscandia. The results give support to the hypothesis of Z. vivipara’s re-colonization of the Baltic Sea basin. Moreover, the results support the previous observations of Voipio (1961, 1968 and 1969) who has reported variability in the shield pattern of Z. vivipara in the same region.
Kupriyanova, L. & Odierna, G. & Capriglione, T. & Olmo, E. & Aprea, G. (2005) -
Kupriyanova, L. & Terhivuo, J. & Pasanen, S. (2005) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. (1969) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. (1973) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. (1976) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. (1981) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. (1984) -
Today the presence of supernumerary or B-chromosomes in the karyotypes of several species of plants, insects and mammals seems to be well established. More and more information is now available concerning the B-chromosomes in the karyotypes of several species of amphibians, reptiles and birds. From the literature one might suppose that the supernumerary reptilian chromosomes are very similar to the fairly well studied systems of plants, insects and mammalian B-chromosomes. The reptilian B-chromosomes, like those of other animals and plants species, are characterized by mitotic instability which results in the intra-individual variability of their number in the nucleus. The presumed presence of heterochromatin in some reptilian B-chromosomes enables us to predict one more feature in common with the B-chromosomes of the above-mentioned classes; that is the late replication known to be a property of heterochromatin. However we should not neglect the fact that the constant presence of only constitutive heterochromatin in the vertebrate B-chromosomes is now apt to be questioned, after the introduction of chromosome banding. As in other groups the reptilian B-chromosomes are characterized both by different morphology and size. They also sometimes demonstrate the typical meiotic behaviour of chromosomes of such a type: that is their accumulation in testicular ceils and the lack of normal conjugation of homologues. This paper presents one more peculiarity shared by the reptilian B-chromosomes and by B-chromosomes of plants and insects: namely their influence on the chiasma frequencies of basic (A) chromosomes in the karyotype of lacertid lizard Lacerta parva Boul.
Kupriyanova, L.A. (1986) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. (1992) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. (1994) -
he chromosomes of eight lacertid species were studied by standard and banding techniques (C- and NOR-banding, telomeric sequences) and chromosomal interlocation during mitosis and meiosis was investigated. The data obtained are discussed in the light of modern ideas of the interrelation between DNA changes, karyotype evolution, and speciation. The assumption is voiced on the optimal number of arms and, consequently, the “optimal” number of functional telomeres in the Lacertidae, which in its turn may be associated with the structure of the nucleus and with canalization of the genome as a whole.
Kupriyanova, L.A. (1997) -
Karyotype of Zootoca vivipara from three localities around the Baltic Sea basin were examined. The specimens of Z. vivipara (females) from Denmark have 2n = 35:34 A + 1 SV, where the submetacentric chromosome is a W sex chromosome (Form B), whereas those from Estonia and from the Poland-Belarus border have 2n = 35: 35 A, where the acrocentric chromosome is a W sex chromosome (Form A). These data confirm that this region may be a zone of secondary contact between these two chromosomal forms.
Kupriyanova, L.A. (2004) -
Results of the author`s long-term study of the karyotype of Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara (family Lacertidae, Sauna) have been generalized and supplemented with relevant literature data. Within the species an interpopular karyotype variability was established, and several chromosomal forms were described. Karyotypes of L. (Z) vivipara from four new, previously not examined populations have been first presented in this paper, and cytoge-netical features of their chromosomes are given. Finally, cytogenetical analysis of particular specimens from different localities enabled the author to reveal a new chromosomal form and to define the limits of distribution of other forms of the species. The complex L. (Z.) vivipara has appeared to be more complicated than earlier believed. This complex includes several chromosomal forms of unclear taxonomic status, and some subspecies characterized by various modes of reproduction and distinct distribution ranges. It has been confirmed that in the complex L. (Z) vivipara intensive chromosomal changes accompany the processes of form-formation and sub-speciation. Some cytogenetical regularities of these processes have been demonstrated and compared with hybridogeneous form-formation and speciation. Based on the critical analysis of the available karyological data, some mechanisms of chromosomal changes were described, and their tendencies were determined. In addition, intraspecific relationships were analysed. The proposed scheme was compared with the pattern of intraspecific phytogeny of L. (Z) vivipara based on molecular data. It has been shown that a high cytogenetical differentiation of the found chromosomal forms and subspecies is correlated with their low morphological differentiation and with a rather low genetical differentiation. The results of the combined analysis suggest the leading role of cytogenetical data for understanding the processes of form-formation and subspeciation. The importance of chromosomal rearrangements in these processes is emphasized, with special reference to their role in the evolution and phylogeny of the complex L. (Z) vivipara. Some modes of form-formation and subspeciation in this complex are discussed.
Kupriyanova, L.A. (2013) -
Куприянова, Л.А. (2013) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Andren, C. & Nilson, G. (1995) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Arronet, U.N. (1964) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Bacharev, V. (2012) -
The karyotype of the specimens of Zootoca vivipara from three previously not examined populations in the western and southern parts of Belarus have been studied. Males have 2n=36 whereas females possess 2n = 35 with Z1 Z2 W sex chromosomes, where W - sex chromosome is acro-/subtelocentric (A/ST) chromosome. We have identified these viviparous lizards of Z. vivipara on the basis of their chromosome markers and have first revealed that they belong to the Russian chromosomal form of Z. v. vivipara.
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Böhme, W. (2012) -
The data on the karyotype of the viviparous lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein 1823), from four geographical localities of northeastern and central Europe (northern Estonia, northeastern Poland and northern and western Germany) are presented. The history of the first finding of a viviparous female lizard by Austrian botanist F.J. von Jacquin (1787) and the first taxonomic and nomenclaturally relevant description of Zootoca vivipara by_Lichtenstein (1823) are given (Böhme, Rödder, 2006; Schmidtle, Böhme, 2011). As a result, two different chromosomal forms of the nominative subspecies, Z. v. vivipara, were found: the Russian form (Estonia and Poland) and the western form (Germany). The Russian form with 2n = 35 in the female karyotype, where the W-sex chromosome is an acro/subtelocentric macrochromosome (A/ST) and the western form with 2n = 35 in the female karyotype, where the W-sex chromosome is a submetacentric (SV) one. These chromosomal data have revealed an intraspecific karyotype diversity ofZ. vivipara in northeastern and central Europe for the first time. The Russian form was not previously known in the northeastern Poland but, in contrast, the western form was described from southern Polish area. Recently, a zone of a secondary contact between these forms has been localized in the Kaliningrad region. Our data confirm the earlier hypothesis that the southern Baltic Sea seashore is a zone of the secondary contact between different forms of the species. Its colonization with individuals of the western Z. v. vivipara form took place from the west and north-west; from the east and south-east, this region was colonized by the Russian form. One can suggest that new zones of secondary contact between these forms will be found also in the territory of other Baltic countries — Finland and Sweden. The real distribution of these forms in Europe, the localization and characteristics of the contact zone, morphometric and habitat characteristics of these forms, their behavior and taxonomic status still remain unknown. The data obtained will contribute to the evolution of Z. vivipara and help to clarify the role of chromosome/genome reorganization in the subspeciation (or even speciation) process of this widespread lizard.
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Mayer, W. & Schweiger, S. & Podnar, M. & Böhme, W. (2005) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Melashchenko, O. (2011) -
Data on the karyotypes and sex chromosomes of the common Eurasian lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Jacquin, 1787) (family Lacertidae), the Kaliningrad Region (Königsberger Gebiet) in the Baltic Sea Basin of Russia are presented. Twenty five viviparous specimens of Zootoca vivipara from five geographically separate localities have been identified on the basis of their karyotypes, and as a result two different chromosomal forms of nominative subspecies Z. v. vivipara have been recognized: 1. viviparous western form — in female 2n = 35 with the W-sex submetacentric macrochromosome (SV) (Z1Z2W type); 2. viviparous Russian form — in female 2n = 35, with the W-sex acrocentric/subtelocentric macrochromosome (A/ST) (Z1Z2W type). For the present these are marginal populations of the two detected forms of Z. v. vivipara on the southern coast of the Baltic Sea. Their distribution in the Kaliningrad oblast’ has been established and some differences in their biotopic characters have been noted. The morphology of sex chromosomes can be evidently used both to identify specimens as well as to recognize subspecies boundaries in Z. vivipara. To date a mosaic or sympatric distribution of the above forms is not observed in this region, however a parapatric zone is for the first time determined. There is no cytogenetic indication of introgression in specimens from the localities close to their chromosome border. The chromosome rearrangements, in particular in W-sex chromosome, accompany the form-formation, subspeciation and colonization processes in the species. These data suggest a higher taxonomic status of the western and the Russian forms of Z. v. vivipara. Our results support the hypothesis that some region in the Baltic basin may be a zone of secondary contact between two chromosomal forms of the species and indicate that the parapatric zone between them is located in the central part of the Kaliningrad Region. The available chromosome data allow us to assume that during the postglacial time populations of Z. vivipara belonging to the western form of Z. v. vivipara have been colonizing the Kaliningrad Region from the West and the South-West and those corresponding to the Russian form of Z. v. vivipara, from the East and the South-East.
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Melashchenko, O.B. & Alekseev, P.I. (2007) -
Populations of the lizard Zootoca vivipara (Juaquin, 1787) (Lacertidae, Sauria) from Western and Central Europe are poorly differentiated in morphology. However, they differ from each other by several karyotype markers and their reproductive mode (oviparous and viviparous types). Here we report for the first time the results of combined investigations of Z. vivipara from Eastern Europe (the Baltic Sea basin of Western Russia). The karyotype and reproductive mode of the specimens from four previously not examined populations in Kaliningrad region have been studied. It has been shown that these lizards have viviparous mode of reproduction and their karyotypes vary on morphology of W-sex chromosomes. Females possess 2n = 35 : 32 A + Z1Z2W, with W—SV and 2n = 35 : 32 A + Z1Z2W, with W — A/ST. We have identified these populations karyologically and have first revealed that they belong to two different viviparous forms of nominative subspecies Z. v. vivipara, namely to its «western» and «Russian (eastern)» forms. These data have confirmed that the Baltic Sea basin in Eastern Europe is a zone of secondary contact of these chromosomal forms of Z. v. vivipara. The results obtained do not now allow us to speak about their sympatry, parapatry and (or) hybridization events. The results suggest that during postglasial time «western» form might colonize this region from western Europe whereas «Russian( eastern)» form might do it from Southern-Eastern Europe. It has been recommended to save the biodiversity of Z. vivipara in Kaliningrad region, namely the peripheral and very rare on vast territory of Russia «western» form and unique for western region of Russia «Russian(eastern)» form.
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Melashchenko, O.B. & Alekseev, P.I. (2006) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Odierna, G. (2002) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Rudi, E.R. (1990) -
Comparative karyologicaJ analysis of 8 local populations of Lacma vivipara Jacquin in the USSR reveals two forms which differ from each other Ьу the morphology of the sex chromosoшes and the structure of karyotype: male 2п = 36А : 32А + z,z;z;z2 (Z - llpair Z - 15 pair) ,NF=36. Female - 2п = 35:32.4. + Z 1 Z~ W, where W are SV (form В), NF = 36 and А lform A),NF = 35 chromosomes. Тhе form В inhaЬits the main European mountain systems: the Alps, the Carpathians, Balcans. Тhе form is described for the first thne for the Carpathian and the USSR fauna. Тhе form А is observed in the near Carpathian, North European, North Kazakhstanian and East Siberian part of the species range in the USSR. Тhе karyological differences of two forms may Ье due to robertsonian or tandem fusions followed Ьу а pericentric inversion of sex chromosomes. А possiЫe correspondencc of the chromosome changes to speciation events is considered. Тhе taxonomic status of the two forms should Ье checked. Variability of sex determining mechanisms in lizards in relation to their phylogenetic relationships are briefly discussed.
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Safronova, L.D. (2020) -
Results of chromosomal and molecular studies of the lizard Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823) (Lacertidae) from many geographically separate populations of Europe and Asia have been generalized. The questions of karyotype differences within the species, of diversity of its Zw and multiple Z1Z2W sex chromosome, their reorganizations and evolutionary consequences have been briefly considered. Stability of forming karyotypes is as an integrating factor which allow to identify the specimens and unite them into the groups possessing the distinct distribution areas. There are a correlation between chromosomal, mt DNA and nuclear DNA data. Finally all data obtained allow to draw a conclusion that Z. vivipara represents a cryptic group of cryptic taxa. Besides new data about the behavior of multiple sex chromosomes (SC, synaptonemal complexes) in early meiosis and molecular-cytogenetic data on transposable elements (TE) in the genome of Z. vivipara, their localization in the definite regions of chromosomes may suggest that they play a role in active speciation process by formation of cryptic taxa.
Л.А. Куприянова & Л.Д. Сафронова (2020) -
В настоящем сообщении обобщены полученные к настоящему времени результаты хромосомных и мо- лекулярных исследований вида живородящая ящерица Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823) (Lacertidae) из многочисленных географически разобщенных популяций Европы и Азии. Кратко рассмотрены во- просы о кариотипической изменчивости живородящей ящерицы, разнообразии ее Zw и множественных Z1Z2W половых хромосом, процессах их преобразования и эволюционных последствиях последних. Стабильность структуры сформировавшихся кариотипов cлужит интегрирующим признаком и позво- ляет объединять сходные популяции в группы, занимающие самостоятельные географические ареалы. Эти цитогенетические результаты совпадают с молекулярными данными по изучению митохондри- альной и ядерной ДНК особей. В итоге все полученные сведения позволяют сделать вывод о том, что Z. vivipara представляет собой «криптическую» группу, состоящую из таксонов разного ранга. Кроме того, новые данные о формировании и поведении СК (синаптонемный комплекс) половых хромосом в процессе мейоза и молекулярно-цитогенетические данные о транспозонных элементах (ТЕ) в гено- ме живородящей ящерицы, их локализации в определенных районах хромосом свидетельствуют об их важной роли в эволюционных процессах видообразования при формировании криптических таксонов.
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Safronova, L.D. (2023) -
This brief review is focused on the viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823), of the family Lacertidae, which possesses female heterogamety and multiple sex chromosomes (male 2n = 36, Z1Z1Z2Z2/Z1Z2W, female 2n = 35, with variable W sex chromosome). Multiple sex chromosomes and their changes may influence meiosis and the female meiotic drive, and they may play a role in reproductive isolation. In two cryptic taxa of Z. vivipara with different W sex chromosomes, meiosis during early spermatogenesis and oogenesis proceeds normally, without any disturbances, with the formation of haploid spermatocytes, and in female meiosis with the formation of synaptonemal complexes (SCs) and the lampbrush chromosomes. In females, the SC number was constantly equal to 19 (according to the SC length, 16 SC autosomal bivalents plus three presumed SC sex chromosome elements). No variability in the chromosomes at the early stages of meiotic prophase I, and no significant disturbances in the chromosome segregation at the anaphase–telophase I stage, have been discovered, and haploid oocytes (n = 17) at the metaphase II stage have been revealed. There should be a factor/factors that maintain the multiple sex chromosomes, their equal transmission, and the course of meiosis in these cryptic forms of Z. vivipara.
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Safronova, L.D. (2024) -
Characteristics of the karyotype and early meiosis of two males of the cryptic “western” form of the viviparous liz ard (Zootoca vivipara Lichtenstein, 1823) (genus Zootoca Wagler, 1830) with multiple sex chromosomes (female Z1Z2W/Z1Z1Z2Z2 male) were examined. The data obtained were compared with 1) those of the males of the same cryptic form from other locality, with 2) those of the males of other cryptic form also possessing the multiple sex chromosomes and with 3) those of the species of closely related genus Takydromus Daudin, 1802 with simple sex chromosomes, ZW/ZZ. Multiple sex chromosomes may influence meiosis and play a role in isolation. The males of cryptic western form of Z. vivipara studied revealed the karyotype with 36 acrocentric chromosomes (2n=36A). In early meiosis the spreading of synaptonemal complexes (SC) of the bivalents of these males were obtained and analyzed. Eighteen SC were observed, including SC of the Z1Z1 (pair 6) sex chromosomes. Characteristics of SC are compared with the number and the shape of bivalents and chromosomes at the diakinesis and metaphase 11 stages of the meiosis of the males from other population and with those in the other cryptic Russian form of the species. Comparative analysis of two cryptic forms has demonstrated some differences in the morphology of SC Z1Z1 sex chromosomes at the early stages of prophase 1 of meiosis (the late zygotena – the middle pachytene stages). However both the SC of sex chromosomes and SC of all remained chromosomes were fully synapted. All 18 bivalents were regular segregated forming haploid spermatocyte II with18 chromosomes, including two sex chromosomes (n=8, Z1Z2) Thus characteristics of karyotype and early meiosis of the males of western form belon ging to different localities are fully coincident with those of Russian cryptic forms of Z. vivipara with multiple sex chromosomes as well. However, these features were differed from those for the species of the closely related genus Takydromus with simple sex chromosome system (ZW) where some disturbances in the course of mitoses and meiosis were observed. The results are in agreement with those suggested previously about the genomic factor(s) stabilizing the meiosis and the maintenance of multiple sex chromosome in the different cryptic forms of complex Z. vivipara.
Л.А. Куприянова & Л.Д. Сафронова (2024) -
В работе приведены характеристики кариотипа и раннего мейоза 2 самцов криптической «западной» формы вида Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823) (род Zootoca Wagler, 1830), имеющих множественные половые хромосомы (самцы Z1Z1Z2Z2/Z1Z2W самки). Полученные данные сопоставлены с таковыми самцов: 1) другого местонахождения «западной» формы, 2) другой криптической формы вида, также с множественными половыми хромосомами и 3) видов близкородственного рода Takydromus Daudin, 1802 с простой системой половых хромосом (ZZ/ZW). Множественные половые хромосомы, по мне- нию исследователей, могут приводить к определенным нарушениям хода мейоза. Как и в предшеству- ющих работах, в кариотипе двух исследованных самцов «западной» криптической формы Z. vivipara обнаружены 36 акроцентрических (А) хромосом с 4-мя половыми хромосомами (2n=36А, Z1Z1Z2Z2). В ходе раннего сперматогенеза мейотические хромосомы сперматогоний находились на ранних и про- двинутых стадиях профазы 1 (распластанные синаптонемные комплексы [СК], диакинез) и метафазы 11 мейоза. Визуализированы 18 СК бивалентов, включая полностью синаптированные СК биваленты половых хромосом. В процессе мейоза регулярно формировался гаплоидный сперматоцит 11 порядка (n=18, Z1Z2). Таким образом, у изученных ранее и в настоящей работе самцов «западной» формы вида c множественными половыми хромосомами не выявлено нарушений течения мужского мейоза и по- ведения хромосом в нем. Более того, характеристики мужского мейоза совпали с таковыми у другой криптической (русской) формы этого вида (также Z1Z1Z2Z2), однако они отличались от поведения хро- мосом в мейозе (и митозе) видов близкородственного рода Takydromus (ZZ/ZW). Полученные резуль- таты согласуются с существующим мнением о том, что у Z. vivipara существуют генетические факторы, обеспечивающие 1) стабильность течения мейоза и митоза, 2) сохранение множественных половых хромосом и высокого криптического разнообразия вида в целом.
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Safronova, L.D. & Chekunova, A.I. (2019) -
In the females of the viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823) (family Lacertidae) from Northwest Russia (2n = 35: 32A (acrocentric autosomes) + Z1Z2W sex chromosomes), the ovarian lumen germinal vesicles (oocytes), as well as germinal lamina cells, were examined. Chromosome preparations were obtained using the direct method and the method of total oocyte nuclei spreading developed by Dresser and Moses. Chromosome preparations were stained with Giemsa; for visualization of synaptonemal complexes (SCs), total preparations of oocyte nuclei were stained with silver nitrate and DAPI. It was demonstrated that, during oogenesis in the female, primary follicles enter the early stages of the meiotic prophase I (stages from leptotene to diplotene, lampbrush chromosomes are formed). Here, for the first time, total oocyte spreads were obtained and studied. On the basis of light microscopic analysis of the oocyte SCs and taking into account their length in a female with 2n = 35, the SC karyotype is presented, consisting of 19 SC elements, among which 16 SC autosomal bivalents are distinguished. The remaining three SC elements, according to the authors, can be univalents of Z1Z2W sex chromosomes or one WZ1 bivalent and Z2 and B chromosome univalents. As in the SC karyotype of Z. vivipara males, in a female, specific features in the morphology of SC elements of chromosomes 5 and 6 were observed.
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Safronova, L.D. & Chekunova, A.I. (2021) -
Kupriyanova, L.A. & Safronova, L.D. & Sycheva, V.B. & Danielyan, F.D. & Ptrosyan, V.G. (2021) -
In parthenogenetic hybrid Darevskia armeniaca species, the development of early oogenesis and early meiosis were analyzed. It has been shown for the first time that the number of synаptonemal complexes (SCs) of bivalents during the stages of early pachуtena–diplotena of the meiotic prophase 1 is constantly equal to the haploid number, 19. The SC karyotype is presented. The results of comparative molecular–cytogenetic (C/CMA3/DAPI) analysis of the mitotic chromosomes (2n = 38: 34A + 2m + Zw-sex chromosomes) of parthenogenetic females and of the meiotic Zw-sex chromosomes (n = 19 bivalents) of a male D. armeniaca specimen with sex inversion have been presented. Finally, the results obtained demonstrate the absence of premeiotic endoreplication of chromosomes, standard early stages of meiosis, and the formation of the haploid number of SC-bivalents (n = 19) of homeological chromosomes in D. armeniaca.
Kuranova, V.N. (1983) -
Kuranova, V.N. (1989) -
Kuranova, V.N. & Patrakov, S.V. & Bulkakhova, N.A. & Krechetova, O.A. (2005) -
Kuranova, V.N. & Patrakov, S.V. & Krechetova, O.A. & Baranovskaja, N.V. (2006) -
Kuranova, V.N. & Patrakov, S.VB. & Krechetova, O.A. & Baranovskaja, N.V. (2006) -
Kurczewski, R. (2014) -
Kurczewski (2014) -
Kuriyama, T. & Esashi, J. & Hasegawa, M. (2017) -
Brown and green are the most commonly imitated colors in prey animals because both colors occur in a range of habitats. Many researchers have evaluated survival with respect to background color matching, but the pigment cell mechanisms underlying such coloration are not known. Dorsal coloration of East Asian Takydromus lizards has shifted from green to brown or from brown to green on multiple occasions during the diversification of the genus, thus giving us an opportunity to examine the cellular mechanisms of background color matching. Brown and green skin were found to differ with respect to the morphological characteristics of iridophores, with different thicknesses of the reflecting platelets and the cytoplasmic spacing between platelets, despite a shared vertical arrangement of pigment cells, i.e., xanthophores in the upper layer, iridophores in the middle layer, and melanophores at the bottom of the dermal layer, among the different Takydromus lizards. Iridophores of brown skin reflected longer wavelengths of light than those of green skin, which may be attributed to the thicker platelets and longer distances between platelets in brown skin. We discuss the potential role of genetic and intracellular mechanisms explaining the thickness and orientation of the light-reflecting platelets of iridophores in Takydromus lizards.
Kurnaz, M. (2020) -
Turkey is biogeographically diverse and consequently has a rich herpetofauna. As a result of active herpetological research, the number of species has steadily increased in recent years. I present here a new checklist of amphibian and reptile species distributed in Turkey, revising the nomenclature to reflect the latest taxonomic knowledge. In addition, information about the systematics of many species is also given. In total 35 (19.4%) amphibian and 145 (80.6%) reptile species comprise the Turkish herpetofauna. Among amphibians, 16 (45.7%) anurans and 19 urodelans (54.3%) are present. Among reptiles, 11 (7.6%) testudines, 71 (49%) saurians, 3 (2.1%) amphisbaenians and 60 (41.3%) ophidians are considered part of the herpetofauna. The endemism rate in Turkey is considered relatively high with a total of 34 species (12 amphibian species – 34.3% and 22 reptile species – 15.2%) endemic to Turkey, yielding a total herpetofaunal endemism of 18.9%. While 38 species have not been threat-assessed by the IUCN, 92 of the 180 Turkish herpetofaunal species are of Least Concern (LC), 13 are Near Threatened (NT), 10 are Vulnerable (VU), 14 are Endangered (EN), and 7 are Critically Endangered (CR). In addition, 6 species are in the DD (Data Deficient) category.
Kurnaz, M. & Bülbül, U. & Eroğlu, A.I. & Koc, H. & Kutrup, B. (2017) -
In this study, we present new morphological comparison between Darevskia derjugini derjugini and Darevskia derjugini barani in Turkish populations. Totally 55 specimens (21 for D. d. derjugini and 34 for D. d. barani) were used for the comparisons. Independent T-Test results indicated that the morphological characters used in discrimination of the two subspecies were not different in the specimens. The results of canonical discriminant analyses did not exhibit sufficiently distinction between two subspecies because many individuals overlapped between the D. d. derjugini and D. d. barani populations for both meristic and metric characters. In conclusion, we decided that only nominate subspecies, Darevskia derjugini derjugini live in Turkey.
Kurnaz, M. & Bülbül, U. & Eroglu, I.H. & Uzun, F. & Koc, H. & Kutrup, B. (2018) -
The authors investigated potential effects of climatic factors on age and growth in two populations of Darevskia derjugini (nikoLsky, 1898), located at different elevations in Turkey. although elevation, mean annu- al temperature, precipitation and humidity were significantly different among the study sites of Şavşat (highland population) and düzköy (lowland population), the lizards’ respective snout-vent-length, age at maturity, longevity and growth rates were not. a strong female-biased sexual size dimorphism was observed in both populations. The growth coefficient was higher in the high-elevation population. The similarities of growth rates and ssd in D. der- jugini populations from different elevation sites suggest that longevity and age upon arrival at sexual maturity have stronger effects on these parameters than the ambient thermal conditions.
Kurnaz, M. & Eroglu, A. (2020) -
Species are affected by many biotic and abiotic variables while distributed in the geographical areas on the earth. These factors constitute all the life-related needs of the species in their habitats and constitute the ecological barrier between the species. In this study, E. strauchi was recorded for the first time from Erzurum province and this record constitutes the westernmost locality of the species. Moreover, information on the bioclimatic factors in determining the distribution of the species in Turkey is given. This shows that E. strauchi has adapted to the terrestrial climate and prefers its habitat requirements accordingly.
Kurnaz, M. & Eroğlu, A.İ. & Koç, H. & Bülbül, U. & Kutrup, B. (2019) -
In the present study, we contributed to knowledge of distribution of the Italian wall lizard, P. siculus in Turkey. Besides, we gave some morphological data about species from Akçakoca population. The morphological data of the specimens from Akçakoca were generally found to be similar with the known literature. Only some morphological characteristics were observed to be different from the features given in the literature. The mean of supraciliar granules (SCG) was found lower and the mean of median gularia (MG) was found to be higher than the mean values given in the literature. In addition, we found high percentage of five supralabial plates in anterior of oculars. The distribution of the species was found to be restricted between northeastern Marmara and western Black Sea regions, according to our distributional model. On the other hand, the distributional data of P. siculus in the present study exhibited that Çanakkale and Samsun have not suitable habitats for the species. High AUC and lover standard deviation values (0.986 ± 0.006) showed that the potential distribution area of the species was congruent with its habitat preferences inhabited localities.
Kurnaz, M. & Gül, S. & Bülbül, U. & Kutrup, B. (2016) -
Kurnaz, M. & Kutrup, B. (2018) -
Kurnaz, M. & Kutrup, B. & Bülbül, U. (2016) -
Observations of reptiles out of their active periods in the field are very surprising for the researchers. The current short note presents data on the exceptional activity of Darevskia derjugini for the first time in Turkey. Changing climates and global warming may affect the hibernation period of most lizards in the northern hemisphere.
Kurnaz, M. & Kutrup, B. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Koç, H. & Bülbül, U. & Eroğlu, İ. (2019) -
The groups of red-bellied lizards had a small distribution area in the Pontic zone. The several studies performed on these lizard groups are based on taxonomy and systematics. Although there were several taxonomic or systematic researches on some species of this group, the phylogeographical pattern and species disturbing boundaries of this group is still not clear. In the present study, we aimed to resolve the taxonomic and phylogenetic relationships of the red-bellied lizards in Turkey, based on two combined mitochondrial gene fragments and one protein-coding nuclear gene (rag1). Also, we evaluated ecological niches differentiations among red-bellied lizard groups. The mitochondrial DNA genes were found to be highly polymorphic in this group. One hundred and one variable nucleotide sites were detected on the combined gene sequences. According to phylogenetic trees based on the maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI), the red-bellied lizards group have three species groups; Darevskia parvula, D. adjarica and unnamed Darevskia sp. (candidate species for Darevskia genus). This situation was supported by high bootstrap and posterior probability values in the trees of mitochondrial DNA gene fragments. However, no genetic variation was detected according to nuclear DNA (rag1) sequence. Because the species groups have no overlaps in terms of their ecological niches, ecological niche modelling (ENM) results revealed differences among the groups of D. parvula, D. adjarica, and unnamed Darevskia sp. Besides, we detected no geographical overlaps among three species groups, since there were geographical isolation zones among the species groups of red-bellied lizard.
Kurnaz, M. & M.K. Sahin (2022) -
Acanthodactylus Wiegmann, 1834 is one of the widespread lizard genus in North Africa, southern Europe, Asia Minor to the Iberian Peninsula and east through the Arabian Peninsula and western India. We recently discovered Acanthodactylus ilgazi from Eastern Anatolia Turkey. However, a nomenclatural clause for electronic publishing of species names according to the Code of International Nomenclature caused the new name has been unavailable up to now. Therefore, here we formally describe A. ilgazi. In addition to that, the description of the male specimen is given for the first time for this species.
Kurnaz, M. & Moseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. (2020) -
Darevskia rudis (Bedriaga, 1886) and D. bithynica (Méhely, 1909) are morphologically different species, but they are phyloge-netically same species in the D. rudis complex. These species are distributed in northern of Turkey. In the present study, we have evaluated taxonomic status of D. rudis and D. bithynica using ecological niche differentiation. All occurrence data of these species were used to predict and evaluate the suitable areas where they may be expected to be found in Turkey. In order tocompare their ecological niches and explain ecological differentiation, niche similarity tests (niche identity and background tests)and point-based analyses were performed. According to results of ecological niche modeling, we found niche differentiation between D. rudis and D bithynica. Ecological niches for the two species differentiated along environmental variables, asprecipitation of driest quarter for the two species were most important in determining habitat suitability. This factor is importantin niche differentiation between the two species. Finally, our results confirmed the niche differentiation between D. rudis and D. bithynica and added new insights into the taxonomic distinction between D. rudis and D. bithynica that they are two species.
Kurnaz, M. & Şahin, M.K. (2021) -
Acanthodactylus Wiegmann, 1834 is one of the most diverse and widespread lizard genus in the Palearctic realm. Here, we describe a new species, - Acanthodactylus ilgazi sp. nov. - from the Anatolian Peninsula. This new species ranges approximately 250 km north from the closest population of this genus in Turkey. Compared to other fringefingered lizards, the new species is phylogenetically close to A. robustus, A. tristrami and A. orientalis but it has some distinct morphological characteristics: reddish coloration under the tail, a sharp white or grayish stripe in the middle of the dorsum, and four plates in a row on the 4th finger. Moreover, phylogenetic molecular data, based on cyt b gene fragment, verifies that the new species is phylogenetically a member of the tristrami species group with 13.03%, 17.35% and 20.56 genetic distance respectively from A. orientalis, A. tristrami and A. robustus. Lastly, the known range of this species, located in Yazıhan, Malatya in Eastern Anatolia, is restricted by a dam, thus habitat loss endangers its continuity. Therefore, the conservation status of this species should be assessed immediately.
Kurnaz, M. & Şahin, M.K. & Eroğlu, A.İ (2022) -
Kurpiyanova, L.A. (1999) -
Kurpiyanova, L.A. & Böhme, W. (1997) -
Kutrup, B. (2001) -
Kuyk, F. & Zekhuis, M. (2009) -
The success of 22 artificial egg-laying sites for sand lizards was studied in the province of Overijssel. In four heathlands with small sand lizard populations and a low availability of open sand, 22 small artificial egg-laying sites (3 X 3 metres) were created by hand by a group of volunteers. The sites were cleared of all vegetation and the humus layer and the resulting yellow sand was loosened. After two years 59% of the created patches contained hatched eggs. Juvenile lizards were also seen in the immediate icinity of the plots. In each of the four heathlands used plots (containing egg shells) were found. It is concluded that creating plots with bare sand can help the sand lizard in areas where suitable egg-laying sites are scarce or not available. However, intensive management of the open patches is needed every two to three years, because fast encroachment with lichens and grasses takes place. The high acceptance of the created patches is an encouragement to continue creating and maintaining patches of open sand in these and other heathlands
Kveder, J. (2017) -
Rapid adaptive evolution is natural process which generates genetical changes in organisms rapidly enough to have impact on ecological changes. The phenomenon of rapid evolution of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) through the course of 36 years gave evolutionary biologists something to think about. Rapid morphological, physiological, and behavioural changes in a wall lizard population introduced to the new habitat indicate compatibility of this lacertid species as a new model organism. Given the fact that rapid evolution acts upon ecological factors and changes, the Italian wall lizard as a model organism simplifies the research of evolutional mechanisms and gives new insight on general conclusions about evolution.
Brza ili rapidna adaptivna evolucija je biološki proces u kojem se genetičke promjene nekog organizma događaju dovoljno brzo da bi njihov učinak bio vidljiv i u ekološkom aspektu. Fenomen brze evolucije primorske gušterice (Podarcis sicula) unutar 36 godina potaknuo je znanstvenu zajednicu evolucijskih biologa na razmišljanje. Brze morfološke, fiziološke, pa i bihevioralne promjene populacije gušterica uvedenih na novo stanište ukazuju na pogodnost ove vrste lacertidnih guštera kao novog modelnog organizma. Činjenica da brza evolucija djeluje u skladu s ekološkim čimbenicima i promjenama omogućuje lakše istraživanje samih mehanizama evolucije, a primorska gušterica kao modelni organizam olakšava pristup, metode i donošenje generalnih zaključaka.
Kwatrina, R.T. & Santosa, Y. & Maulana, P. (2019) -
The expansion of oil palm plantations in Indonesia is often blamed for triggering the destruction of natural resources and reducing tropical biodiversity. Herpetofauna is one of biodiversity in oil palm plantations, and information about its species diversity is lim-ited. This study aims to reveal the diversity of Herpetofauna diversity in the oil palm landscape in Central Kalimantan. Field inven-tories were conducted on seven types of land cover: young palm, mature palm oil, old palm oil, High Conservation Value areas, secondary forests, shrubs and smallholder plantations. We used the Visual Encounter Method to find Herpetofauna species in all land cover types. This study revealed that the diversity of Herpetofauna species in PT BLP varies based on the type of land cover. The HCV area and Secondary Forest have the largest number of species (12 species), while secondary Forest has the highest abundance among other types of land cover, followed by old oil palm plantations. The Oil palm plantation landscapes with land cover variations, water availability, and riparian areas can be part of the habitat of several Herpetofauna species and are man-aged for sustainable palm oil management schemes.
Kwet, A. (2005) -
Kwet, A. (2006) -
Kwet, A. (2008) -
Kwet, A. (2014) -
Kwet, A. (2016) -
Kwet, A. (2017) -
Kwet, A. (2020) -
Kwet, A. (2021) -
Kwet, A. (2022) -
Kwet, A. & Trapp, B. (2014) -
Kwiat, G.A. & Dist, D.H. (1987) -
The annual reproductive cycle of an introduced population of wall lizards was determined. Male lizards have a postnuptial pattern of testicular growth, with rtecrodescence beginning in August following a 1-2 month period of inactivity. Females exhibit ovarian growth following spring emergence and cycle until mid-July. Up to three clutches of 4-5 eggs each are oviposited annually. The timing of reproductive events is similar to that seen in lowland populations of wall lizards in Europe.
Kyek, M. (2016) -
Kyek, M. & Maletzky, A. (2006) -
Kyek, M. & Maletzky, A. & Achleitner, S. (2007) -
Kyriazi, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Parmakelis, A. & Crochet, P.A. & Moravec, J. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Tsigenopoulos, C.S. & Magoulas, A. & Mylonas, M. & Lymberakis, P. (2008) -
The snake-eyed lizards of the genus Ophisops (Lacertidae) have been through a series of taxonomical revisions, but still their phylogenetic relationships remain uncertain. In the present study we estimate the phylogeographic structure of O. elegans across its distributional range and we evaluate the relationships between O. elegans and the sympatric, in North Africa, species O. occidentalis, using partial mtDNA sequences (16S rRNA, COI, and cyt b). All phylogenetic analyses produced topologically identical trees where extant populations of O. elegans and O. occidentalis were found polyphyletic. Taking into account all the potential causes of polyphyly (introgressive hybridization, incomplete lineage sorting, and imperfect taxonomy) we suggest the inaccurate taxonomy as the most likely explanation for the observed pattern. Our results stress the need for re-evaluation of the current taxonomical status of these species and their subspecies. Furthermore, our biogeographic analyses and the estimated time of divergences suggest a late Miocene diversification within these species, where the present distribution of O. elegans and O. occidentalis was the result of several dispersal and vicariant events, which are associated with climatic oscillations (the late Miocene aridification of Asia and northern Africa) and paleogeographic barriers of late Miocene and Pliocene period.
Laan, D.J. van der (1943) -
Labanc, J. (1967) -
Der Verfasser beschreibt etliche neue Lokalitäten von Lacerta muralis Laur. in Slanec Bergen. Dieselben befinden sich in den Katastralgebieten der Gemeinden Rudlov, Zamutov und Juskova Vota. In den erwähnten Lokalitäten befanden sie sich als typische Lokalitäten in den Felsen und ebenfalls als weniger typische für Lacerta muralis Laur.. insbesondere für die Nordgrenze ihrer Verbreitung als z. B. Eichen und Eichbuchenwalde. In zwei Fällen fand der Verfasser die Lokalität ebenfalls in den Niederungen vor. Einer der untersuchten Lokalitäten entnimmt der Verfasser etliche ekologische Einzelheiten. Es ist dies diejenige, die in einer Niederung im Katastralgebiet von Juskova Voia gelegen und durch die mit der Sonne bestrahlten Abhänge am Walddepot und eine Waldhütte herausgebildet ist. Graph Nr. I veranschaulicht die Entwicklung von den Jungen, die hier gruppenweise ausgebrütet wurden, (die erste Gruppe klein, die zweite und dritte als Hauptgruppen) von der Ausbreitung an bis zur Überwinterung. Graph Nr. 2 veranschaulicht den Verlauf der täglichen Aktivität von Lacerta muralis in dieser Lokalität. Ausser der Sonnenstrahlung wird hier der Wind als wichtiger ekologischer Faktor hervorgehoben. Als Ergebnis seines Einflusses ekrlärt der Verfasser die Entstehung von Lokalitäten in den Niederungen, sowie in den Eich-buchenwäldern, obzwar sich dort selbst auch Felsen ohne Baumbestände befinden.
The author reports about new localities of the Wall Lizard Lacerta muralis Luar., in East Slovakia; they were found in the area of Cierna Hora (Black Mountain) in the land-register twerritory of the Obisovce and Velka Lodina villages (Humenec State Natural Reserve), in the area of Velky Milic and the land-register territory of the Novi Salas and Slanska Huta villages near Izra lake. Mention is also made by the author of a locality on the Horny vrch-mountain near the Hrhov village. The table gives measurements of specimens in the named localities.
Labanc, J. & Obr, F. (1971) -
Labes, M. (2023) -
This report describes the successful keeping of adult and juvenile Timon lepidus and male starred agama in a common enclosure.
Lác, J. (1968) -
Lác, J. (1970) -
Lac, J. & Cyprich, D. & Kiefer, M. (1972) -
Lác, J. & Kluch, E. (1968) -
Lachmann, H. (1902) -
Laforgia, V. & Capaldo, A. & Muoio, R. & Sciarrillo, R. (2001) -
Laforgia, V. & Capaldo, A. & Varano, L. & Putti, R. & Cavagnuolo, A. (1993) -
Laforgia, V. & Cavagnuolo, A. & Sciarrillo, R. & Capaldo, A. (1996) -
Insulin was administered to Podarcis sicula in winter, when the thyroid gland is inhibited. The activity of the thyroid increased, plasma concentrations of thyroid hormones and hepatic 5`-monodeiodinase activity (MDA) increased, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations fell to undetectable values. This result confirms the influence of insulin on the activity of the thyroid gland in the lizard species studied. The mechanisms are still unclear, although there is evidence which leads us to believe that insulin is directly responsible for thyroid activation.
Laforgia, V. & Muoio, R. (1997) -
This study was undertaken to investigate whether, in the lizard Podarcis sicula, the expression of adrenaline synthesizing enzyme phenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase (PNMT) is influenced by variations in corticosteroid levels. Adrenal glands of specimens treated with ACTH or corticosteroids were collected and stained with avidin-biotin complex (ABC) and immunogold techniques, for light and electron microscopical observations, respectively. In non treated specimens, positive staining was mainly confined to the catecholamine containing cells (adrenaline cells), located closer to the steroidogenic ones. In treated specimens, instead, positive staining was found in all the cells of the ehromaffin portion of the gland (adrenaline and noradrenaline cells). Immunoelec-tron microscopy confirmed the distribution of immunoreactive cells observed at the light microscope. These results support the hypothesis that corticosteroids regulate PNMT expression in reptilian adrenal glands similarly to what occurs in mammals.
Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. (1978) -
The adrenaline cells of the adrenal gland of Lacerta sicula are distributed differently from those of Squamata since they are present not only in the adrenal (chromaffin) islets scattered between the interrenal (steroidogenic) cords, but are also present in the inner rows of the dorsal chromaffin ribbon. For this reason we have administered ACTH to some specimens of this species to investigate whether in the chromaffin cells of reptiles, the adrenaline synthesis can be influenced by an enhanced corticosteroid production. After ACTH administration the interrenal tissue appears intensely stimulted. At the same time the adrenaline cells of the dorsal ribbon are increased in number. The chromaffin ribbon, which normally contains a majority of noradrenaline cells, is often entirely constituted of adrenaline cells. Under the E.M. cells containing only one kind of granules are seen, as are intermediate cells containing both kinds of chromaffin granules. These observations suggest that all the chromaffin cells of Lacerta sicula possess phenylethanolamine-N-methyl transferase, the enzyme responsible for noradrenaline methylation, which is also activated in the cells of the outer layers of the adrenal ribbon when they are stimulated by high levels of corticosteroids.
Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. & Capaldo, A. & Cavagnuolo, A. & Putti, R. (1990) -
The distribution and the ratios between noradrenaline (NA) and adrenaline (A) cells in eight species belonging to the family Lacertidae were studied. There are variations in the distribution of the two cell types within the gland and a wide range of variation in the NA/A cell ratio. Comparing their data with palaeontological, anatomical and biochemical evidence, the authors are inclined to consider G. galloti and L. graeca as the most ancient lizards among those studied and to ascribe L. graeca to the group Lacerta part II together with L. dugesii. P. pityusensis should also be ascribed to the same group on the basis of the result, of this study. The other four species studied (L. lepida, L. trilineata, L. viridis and L. schreiberi) appear to be of fairly recent origin and should be ascribed to the group Lacerta part I, on the basis of the homogeneous distribution of the chromaffin cells inside the adrenal gland and their low NA/A cell ratios.
Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. & Capaldo, A. & Putti, R. & Cavagnuolo, A. (1991) -
The morphology of the adrenal gland and relationships between noradrenalin (NA) and adrenalin (A) cells were studied in selected species of the genus Podarcis. As in other previously-studied genera, the morphology of the adrenal gland is not homogeneous, and the species examined can be divided into two groups according to the relationship between chromaffin and steroidogenic tissue. Podarcis taurica and P. hispanica, in which the two tissues are strongly separated, belong to one group. P. wagleriana, P. muralis, P. sicula, P. peloponnesiacus and P. melisellensis belong to a second group in which dorsal chromaffin ribbons send digitations between the steroidogenic cords. The NA/A cell ratio is higher in species of the first group than in those of the second.
Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. & Cavagnuolo, A. & Putti, R. (1982) -
Lafuente, M. & Roca, V. (1993) -
Lafuente, M. & Roca, V. (1995) -
Lafuente, M. & Vento, D. & Roca, V. & Rubio, J.L. (1992) -
Since 1980 parasitological research on the Iberian reptiles increased notably, even though the short interval of time have passed follow that it does not know the helminth fauna of diverses species. This was the case with Algyroides marchi VALVERDE, 1958 (Sairia: Lacertidae), the present parasitological study being the first for this lizard.
Laghi, P. & Pastorelli, C. (2008) -
Lahoud Hokayem, M. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. & Sadek, R. & Hakim Saade, J. (2006) -
The diet of a population of Acanthodactylus schreiberi syriacus Böttger, 1979 (Reptilia Lacertidae) on the beach in southern of Lebanon. The diet of a population of Acanthodactylus schreiberi syriacus inhabiting a sandy beach on the South Lebanese coast was studied. The range of prey size, their taxonomic diversity and the absence of a close relationship between prey and predator size emphasize the alimentary opportunism of this lizard. Such behavior may be an adaptive response to the ecological conditions of the studied population.
Lailvaux, S.P. & Huyghe, K. & Van Damme, R. (2012) -
nterspecific aggression is thought to be driven by competition over either shared resources or mates, with the latter facilitated by mistaken or poor species recognition. However, such aggression may potentially also be modulated by other factors, including residency in territorial species. We tested the relative strengths of intra- and interspecific aggression in the lacertid lizard Podarcis melisellensis by introducing males to both the territories of conspecific males and the territories of a sympatric lacertid, Dalmatolacerta oxycephala. We also conducted reciprocal introductions to test the effect of residency on interspecific aggression in P. melisellensis. Our results show that P. melisellensis exhibit significantly more aggression towards D. oxycephala than towards conspecifics, even though these two species do not closely resemble one another and do not exhibit extensive overlap in diet preferences. We also found an overall effect of residency on behavioural measures of aggression, as well as a clear increase in interspecific aggression towards D. oxycephala in resident relative to non-resident P. melisellensis. These results show that interspecific aggression between sympatric species can exist in the absence of breeding competition and with little resource overlap.
Laloi, D. & Elzaguirre, C. & Fédérici, P. & Massot, M. (2011) -
Female mate choice and female multiple mating are major focuses of studies on sexual selection. In a multiple mating context, the benefits of mate choice can change along successive matings, and female choice would be expected to change accordingly. We investigated sequential female mate choice in the moderately polyandrous common lizard (Zootoca vivipara, synonym Lacerta vivipara). Along successive mating opportunities, we found that females were relatively unselective for the first mate, but accepted males of higher heterozygosity for subsequent mating, consistent with the trade-up choice hypothesis. We discuss the evidence of trade-up mate choice in squamates and generally trade-up for mate heterozygosity in order to motivate new studies to fill gaps on these questions.
Laloi, D. & Richard, M. & Lecomte, J. & Massot, M. & Clobert, J. (2004) -
The common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) is a small live-bearing lacertid that reproduces once a year. In order to document the poorly known mating system of this species, we present here an assessment of multiple paternity using microsatellite markers. Paternities were established within 122 clutches belonging to two wild populations from contrasted areas and to four seminatural enclosed populations. The proportion of multiply sired clutches was found to be very high (between 50.0% and 68.2%) and similar among populations, which suggests that the mating system of this species may be insensitive to environmental and population conditions.
Lam, B. & Rosa, G.M. (2022) -
Lamb, T. & Bauer A.M. (2003) -
Lambert, M.R. & Goldfarb, B.A. & Watkins-Colwell, G.J. & Donihue, C.M. (2016) -
Lambert, M.R.K. (1967) -
Lambert, M.R.K. (1968) -
Lambert, M.R.K. (1969) -
Lambert, M.R.K. (1987) -
Lambert, M.R.K. (2002) -
Lambiris, A.J. (1965) -
Lamelas-López, L. & Marco, F. (2021) -
Vertebrate pests cause significant economic loss in several agricultural crops worldwide; therefore, their populations are often controlled through culling. Correctly identifying the main species responsible for the damage is essential to avoid persecuting the wrong targets, yet it is challenging. During 2016 and 2017, we tested the usefulness of camera-trapping (CT) in Terceira Island, Azores, Portugal to identify vertebrate pests. Vineyard owners in this region cull the Azores woodpigeon (Columba palumbus azorica), the common pigeon (Columba livia), the house sparrow (Passer domesticus), the Azores blackbird (Turdus merula azorensis), and the Madeira wall lizard (Teira dugesii) to reduce damage to grapes. Using CT photos and videos, we identified nine species damaging the grape, but four of those were only observed occasionally (< 10 consumption events over 2years). The Madeira lizard (371.09 and 232.47 consumption events100-CT-days in 2016 and 2017, respectively), the house sparrow (284.01 and 21.73 consumption events100-CT-days in 2016 and 2017, respectively), and the Azores blackbird (17.35 and 8.23 consumption events100-CT-days in 2016 and 2017, respectively) had the most frequent consumption events. All three species were most active in the morning (8:00–9:00) and in the afternoon (16:00–17:00 for the Madeira lizard and the house sparrow, and 18:00–19:00 for the Azores blackbird). We demonstrated the advantage of using CT in cultivated habitats to provide valuable information about the identity, behaviour, daily-activity patterns, and relative consumption rates of vineyard pests. We also provided evidence that the endemic Azores woodpigeon and the common pigeon should not be targeted by the farmers in Terceira.
Lampe, E. (1909) -
Lamprecht, I.H.D. & Matuschka, F-R. & Schaarschmidt, B. (1991) -
The energy metabolism of three lizard species (Podarcis milensis, Podarcis muralis and Lacerta agilis) was investigated by means of microcalorimetry and polarography over the range of environmental temperatures between 17 and 35 °C encountered by active lizards during summer in Europe. In non-stimulated animals, the maximum and mean heat production rates were highest around 30°C for all species and amounted to 3.9±1.1 mWg-1 and 2.1±0.5 mWg-1, respectively. Resting metabolism contributed approximately 60% to the mean routine heat dissipation; the remainder originated from locomotory activity, 43% of which was based on anaerobic energy metabolism. From simultaneous determinations of heat dissipation and oxygen consumption, an average oxycaloric equivalent of 18.6±3.2 J ml-1 O2 was calculated, which rose to 26.6±7.1 J ml-1 O2 during short bursts of locomotion.
Lancha, A. & Batista, M.A.P. & Dores, R.M. (1994) -
Landesamt für Naturschutz und Landschaftspflege Schleswig Holstein (1981) -
Landesamt für Umweltschutz Sachsen-Anhalt (2016) -
Landmann, L. (1973) -
Landmann, L. (1976) -
Three types of glycogen-containing cutaneous nerve terminals - two of them hitherto unknown - are described. It is shown that the glycogen is synthesized in the perikaryon and transferred to the terminals by means of slow axoplasmic transport.
Landmann, L. & Halata, Z. (1980) -
Examination of the labial epidermis of the lizard Lacerta sicula revealed cells displaying all features of Merkel cells. These cells are located in the stratum basale of epidermal pegs and are arranged in clusters.
Landmann, L. & Villiger, W. (1975) -
Landwehr, J. (1955) -
Lanfranco, G. & Schembri, P.J. (1989) -
Lanfranco, G.G. (1955) -
Lanfranco, G.G. (1957) -
Lang, D. & Monzon-Nayor, M. & Romero-Aleman, M. de Mar & Yanes, C. & Santos, E. & Pesheva, P. (2008) -
It is currently unclear whether retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axon regeneration depends on down‐regulation of axon growth‐inhibitory proteins, and to what extent outgrowth‐promoting substrates contribute to RGC axon regeneration in reptiles. We performed an immunohistochemical study of the regulation of the axon growth‐inhibiting extracellular matrix molecules tenascin‐R and chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan (CSPG), the axon outgrowth‐promoting extracellular matrix proteins fibronectin and laminin, and the axonal tenascin‐R receptor protein F3/contactin during RGC axon regeneration in the lizard, Gallotia galloti. Tenascin‐R and CSPG were expressed in an extracellular matrix‐, oligodendrocyte/myelin‐ and neuron‐associated pattern and up‐regulated in the regenerating optic pathway. The expression pattern of tenascin‐R was not indicative of a role in channeling or restriction of re‐growing RGC axons. Up‐regulation of fibronectin, laminin, and F3/contactin occurred in spatiotemporal patterns corresponding to tenascin‐R expression. Moreover, we analyzed the influence of substrates containing tenascin‐R, fibronectin, and laminin on outgrowth of regenerating lizard RGC axons. In vitro regeneration of RGC axons was not inhibited by tenascin‐R, and further improved on mixed substrates containing tenascin‐R together with fibronectin or laminin. These results indicate that RGC axon regeneration in Gallotia galloti does not require down‐regulation of tenascin‐R or CSPG. Presence of tenascin‐R is insufficient to prevent RGC axon growth, and concomitant up‐regulation of axon growth‐promoting molecules like fibronectin and laminin may override the effects of neurite growth inhibitors on RGC axon regeneration. Up‐regulation of contactin in RGCs suggests that tenascin‐R may have an instructive function during axon regeneration in the lizard optic pathway.
Lang, D.M. & Del Mar Romero-Aleman, M. & Arbelo-Galvan, J.-M. & Stuermer, C.A.O. & Monzon-Mayor, M. (2002) -
Using anterograde tracing with HRP and antibodies (ABs) against neurofilaments, we show that regrowth of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons in the lizard Gallotia galloti commences only 2 months after optic nerve transection (ONS) and continues over at least 9 months. This is unusually long when compared to RGC axon regeneration in fish or amphibians. Following ONS, lizard RGCs up-regulate the immediate early gene C-JUN for 9 months or longer, indicating their reactive state. In keeping with the in vivo data, axon outgrowth from lizard retinal explants is increased above control levels from 6 weeks, reaches its maximum as late as 3 months, and remains elevated for at least 1 year after ONS. By means of BrdU incorporation assays and antiproliferating cell nuclear antigen immunohistochemistry, we show that the late axon outgrowth is not derived from new RGCs that might have arisen in reaction to ONS: no labeled cells were detected in lizard retinas at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 3, 6, and 12 months after ONS. Conversely, numbers of RGCs undergoing apoptosis were too low to be detectable in TUNEL assays at any time after ONS. These results demonstrate that retinal axon regeneration in G. galloti is due to axon regrowth from the resident population of RGCs, which remain in a reactive state over an extended time interval. Neurogenesis does not appear to be involved in RGC axon regrowth in G. galloti.
Lang, D.M. & Monzon-Mayor, M. & Bandtlow, C.E. & Stuermer, C.A.O. (1998) -
Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons in lizards (reptiles) were found to regenerate after optic nerve injury. To determine whether regeneration occurs because the visual pathway has growth-supporting glia cells or whether RGC axons regrow despite the presence of neurite growth-inhibitory components, the substrate properties of lizard optic nerve myelin and of oligodendrocytes were analyzed in vitro, using rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. In addition, the response of lizard RGC axons upon contact with rat and reptilian oligodendrocytes or with myelin proteins from the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) was monitored. Lizard optic nerve myelin inhibited extension of rat DRG neurites, and lizard oligodendrocytes elicited DRG growth cone collapse. Both effects were partially reversed by antibody IN-1 against mammalian 35/250 kD neurite growth inhibitors, and IN-1 stained myelinated fiber tracts in the lizard CNS. However, lizard RGC growth cones grew freely across oligodendrocytes from the rat and the reptilian CNS. Mammalian CNS myelin proteins reconstituted into liposomes and added to elongating lizard RGC axons caused at most a transient collapse reaction. Growth cones always recovered within an hour and regrew. Thus, lizard CNS myelin and oligodendrocytes possess nonpermissive substrate properties for DRG neurons—like corresponding structures and cells in the mammalian CNS, including mammalian-like neurite growth inhibitors. Lizard RGC axons, however, appear to be far less sensitive to these inhibitory substrate components and therefore may be able to regenerate through the visual pathway despite the presence of myelin and oligodendrocytes that block growth of DRG neurites.
Lang, D.M. & Romero-Aleman, M. del Mar, Dobson, B. & Santos, E. & Monón-Mayor, M. (2016) -
The myelin-associated protein Nogo-A contributes to the failure of axon regeneration in the mammalian CNS. Inhibition of axon growth by Nogo-A is mediated by the Nogo-66 receptor (NgR). Non-mammalian vertebrates, however, are capable of spontaneous CNS axon regeneration, and we have shown that retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons regenerate in the lizard, Gallotia galloti. Using immunohistochemistry, we observed spatiotemporal regulation of Nogo-A and NgR in cell bodies and axons of RGCs during ontogeny. In the adult lizard, expression of Nogo-A was associated with myelinated axon tracts and up-regulated in oligodendrocytes during RGC axon regeneration. NgR became up-regulated in RGCs following optic nerve injury. In in vitro studies, Nogo-A-Fc failed to inhibit growth of lizard RGC axons. The inhibitor of pkA activity, KT5720 blocked growth of lizard RGC axons on substrates of Nogo-A-Fc, but not laminin. On patterned substrates of Nogo-A-Fc, KT5720 caused restriction of axon growth to areas devoid of Nogo-A-Fc. cAMP levels were elevated over sustained periods in lizard RGCs following optic nerve lesion. We conclude that Nogo-A and NgR are expressed in a mammalian-like pattern and up-regulated following optic nerve injury, but presence of Nogo-A does not inhibit RGC axon regeneration in the lizard visual pathway. The results of outgrowth assays suggest that outgrowth-promoting substrates and activation of the cAMP/pkA signaling pathway play a key role in spontaneous lizard retinal axon regeneration in the presence of Nogo-A. Restriction of axon growth by patterned Nogo-A-Fc substrates suggests that Nogo-A may contribute to axon guidance in the lizard visual system.
Lang, R. de (1959) -
Langerwerf, B. (1971) -
Langerwerf, B. (1975) -
Langerwerf, B. (1976) -
Lacerta praticola pon tica appeared to be well keepable under dutch climatological conditions. Kept in an open air ter- ranum the species came to reproduction. After hibernation mating started in early March. The first eggs were met haff April. The first hatchling was seen on August 15th.
Langerwerf, B. (1977) -
The F2 generation of Lacerra lepida parer was bred from parents under one year of age. The young thrived on a diet of small insects, some of wich were enrichened by feeding them one bone-meal.
Five Lacerta /epida pater (2,3) from Mo- rocco were kept in a terrarium with an exceptionally large surface (50m2, later 30 m2). During summer direct sunlight was pro- vided. The animals came to reproduction, each female depositing about ten eggs three to four iimes per season. The eggs develo- ped well, but dit not hatch, unless the preg- nant females were fed on new-born rats instead of the hitherto offered menu of in- sekts, snails and occasionally small verte- brates. The incubation time of the eggs was 3 months at a temperature of 25 - 30°C.
Langerwerf, B. (1978) -
A survey of the caucasian rock-dwelling lizards is given with an account of the areal inhabitated and a short descrip- tion of most kinds. The author got from friends in the DDR some specimens of Lacerta saxicola brau- neri, Lacerta rudis obscura, Lacerta ar- meniaca and a Lacerta raddei. All these lizards were kept in outside terrariums of different sizes. They thrived well, some species even reproduc- ting in fairly large numbers. The good results are attributed to the probable resemblance of the dutch climate with that from their coutry of origin, as well as to the fact that the sun had free access to the terrariums. Reproduction also took place when the animals were hibernated without a real winter-sleep. Some remarks concern the systematic relationships of the species mentioned.
Langerwerf, B. (1980) -
Langerwerf, B. (1981) -
The authors describe the ways in which they breed Lacerta danfordi anatolica outdoors as well as indoors. Remarks on distribution and subspecies are given. Both terrariums are illustrated, behavior and reproduction of the lizards as well as the incubation of the eggs are dealt with. Abundant feeding with several kinds of insects and a good supply of vitamins makes a quick growth of the young possible. In this way an animal can be adult in 4 months. Unfiltered sunradiation in the period march-october is necessary for good breeding results.
Langerwerf, B. (1982) -
Langerwerf, B. (1983) -
Langerwerf, B. (1984) -
CAPTIVE MAINTENANCE AND BREEDING OF THE OMAN LIZARD LACERTA JAYAKARI The rare and beautiful Oman lizard proves to be an animal suitable for keeping in terraria. Since 1980 this lizard is bred in Europe, while only seven specimens of this species were known in 1971. The author succeeded in breeding 26 hatchlings since 1982. The lizard can be kept in a glass covered gardentenarium during summer. The reproductive cycle starts in autumn. This is probably linked with an estivation in the hot dry summerofOman. ]`hough hibernation in Oman is not a necessity. hibernation is triggered if unfavorable climatical conditions occur.
Langerwerf, B. (1989) -
Langerwerf, B. (1994) -
Langerwerf, B. (2001) -
Langford, M. (1985) -
Langham, S. (2015) -
Langton, T.E.S. (1988) -
Langton, T.E.S. & Atkins, W. & Herbert, C. (2011) -
This is a review of fifty-one non-native species, subspecies, intergrades or hybrids of amphibians and reptiles recorded as living wild in the London Area. Of these fifty-one taxa, referred to here as ‘types’, around twenty-one are amphibians of which fourteen have bred successfully and thirty are reptiles of which just two have been proven to breed. Other types may have bred unrecorded. A rapid increase in the number of types of terrapin in the wild has been observed since trade restrictions on red-eared terrapin importation in 1997. Many new species, mostly North American, but including those from Africa and Australia, can now be found in the wild. The traditional split of Water Frogs into two species and a hybrid has now diversified to include many more types that may interbreed when mixed. The distribution and spread of Water Frogs over the last two hundred years in this part of southeast England is described for the first time. Brief descriptions and identification notes are provided and zoogeographic and historical aspects of colonization are considered. Part 1 refers to distribution and aspects of impacts from the species’ role in the food chain of the communities where they have colonized. The trade in herpetofauna and nature conservation and welfare issues are considered. Aspects of disease impacts and philosophical considerations are described in Part 2.
Lanka, V. & Vit, Z. (1984) -
Lantermann, W. (2003) -
Lantermann, W. (2005) -
Lantermann, W. (2017) -
Lantermann, W. (2018) -
Es wird über einige Beobachtungen zur Häufigkeit sowie zur Tagesaktivität der Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) in einer Wohnanlage am Ostufer des Lago Maggiore, Norditalien, berichtet.
Lantermann, W. (2024) -
Common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) have been found in several gabion structures on a former railway line between Oberhausen and Duisburg. The “populations” comprise only a few animals in each case, but reproduction was also detected at one site. In our empty landscapes, gabions now provide substitute habitats for lizards in many places – in place of former dry stone walls.
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2006) -
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2007) -
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2008) -
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2009) -
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2010) -
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2011) -
Two field trips to Kamp-Bornhofen in the upper Central Rhine valley in June 2006 and August 2010 resulted in several observations and photos of the Western Green Lizard (Lacerta bilineata). Some specimen, including one juvenile lizard could be found at the public nature trail. Other species in the area were the common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) und the Grass Snake (Natrix natrix).
Es wird über herpetologische Beobachtungen im Rahmen einer 10-tägigen Studienreise nach Nordmalta mit zwei Exkursionen nach Gozo berichtet.
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2013) -
During a short study trip to Sardinia in May 2012 the Pygmy Algyroides (Algyroides fitzingeri) was focussed on five occasions with seven individuals in the north of the island. The localities and habitat structures are described. Two species of the additional herpetofauna were the Tyrrhenian Wall Lizard (Podarcis tiliguerta) and the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus).
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2014) -
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2015) -
In September 2015 a melanistic common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) was found at „Philosophenweg“ in Heidelberg. This is the first record for this location, but some years ago three melanistic specimens have been found nearby at the banks of the Neckar.
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2016) -
Die im männlichen Geschlecht sehr farbenprächtige Prachtkieleidechse (Algyroides nigropunctatus) ist auf Korfu verbreitet, ökologisch recht anpassungsfähig und besetzt ähnliche Lebensräume wie andernorts die Mauereidechse, die auf Korfu aber weitgehend fehlt. Es werden einige Angaben über das Vorkommen der Art im Südosten der Insel gemacht, woe die Tiere durchaus als Kulturfolger gelten Können.
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2017) -
Während eines elftägigen Studienaufenthaltes auf Sizilien im April 2016 konnten die Verfasser einige Beobachtungen und Zählungen an Ruineneidechsen (Podarcis siculus) entlang eines definierten Wegstückes (als Transekt) am Rande des Nebrodi-Nationalparks im Nordosten der Insel durchführen.
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2021) -
Lantermann, W. & Lantermann, Y. (2023) -
Lantermann, W. & Y. Lantermann (2020) -
Lantz, L.A. (1918) -
Lantz, L.A. (1922) -
Lantz, L.A. (1923) -
Lantz, L.A. (1926) -
Lantz, L.A. (1927) -
Lantz, L.A. (1928) -
Lantz, L.A. (1930) -
Lantz, L.A. & Cyrén, O. (1913) -
Lantz, L.A. & Cyrén, O. (1918) -
Lantz, L.A. & Cyrén, O. (1919) -
Lantz, L.A. & Cyrén, O. (1920) -
Lantz, L.A. & Cyrén, O. (1936) -
Lantz, L.A. & Cyrén, O. (1939) -
Lantz, L.A. & Cyrén, O. (1947) -
Lantz, L.A. & Cyrén, O. (1948) -
Lantz, L.A. & Suchow, G.F. (1934) -
Lanuza, E. & Belekhova, M. & Martinez-Marcos, A. & Font, C. & Martinez-Garcia, F. (1998) -
The presence of multimodal association in the telencephalon of reptiles has been investigated by tracing the afferent connections to the posterior dorsal ventricular ridge (PDVR) of the lizard Podarcis hispanica. The PDVR receives telencephalic afferents from the lateral (olfactory) and dorsal cortices, and from the three unimodal areas of the anterior dorsal ventricular ridge, in a convergent manner. From the diencephalon, it receives afferents from the dorsomedial anterior and medial posterior thalamic nuclei, and from several hypothalamic nuclei. Brainstem afferents to the PDVR originate in the dorsal interpeduncular nucleus, the nucleus of the lateral lemniscus and parabrachial nucleus.The afferents to the thalamic nuclei that project to the PDVR have also been studied. The dorsomedial anterior thalamic nucleus receives projections mainly from limbic structures, whereas the medial posterior thalamic nucleus is the target of projections from structures with a clear sensory significance (optic tectum, torus semicircularis, nuclei of the lateral and spinal lemniscus, superior olive and trigeminal complex). As a result, the PDVR appears as an associative centre that receives visual, auditory, somatosensory and olfactory information from several telencephalic and non-telencephalic centres, and a multimodal projection from the medial posterior thalamic nucleus. This pattern of afferents of the PDVR is similar to that of the caudal neostriatum in birds and the basolateral division of the mammalian amygdala. These results indicate that a multimodal amygdala is already present in reptiles, and has probably played a key role in the evolution of the vertebrate brain.
Lanuza, E. & Font, C. & Martinez-Marcos, A. & Martinez-Garcia, F. (1997) -
The cells of origin and terminal fields of the amygdalo-hypothalamic projections in the lizard Podarcis hispanica were determined by using the anterograde and retrograde transport of the tracers, biotinylated dextran amine and horseradish peroxidase. The resulting labeling indicated that there was a small projection to the preoptic hypothalamus, that arose from the vomeronasal amygdaloid nuclei (nucleus sphericus and nucleus of the accessory olfactory tract), and an important projection to the rest of the hypothalamus, that was formed by three components: medial, lateral, and ventral. The medial projection originated mainly in the dorsal amygdaloid division (posterior dorsal ventricular ridge and lateral amygdala) and also in the centromedial amygdaloid division (medial amygdala and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis). It coursed through the stria terminalis and reached mainly the retrochiasmatic area and the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus. The lateral projection originated in the cortical amygdaloid division (ventral anterior and ventral posterior amygdala). It coursed via the lateral amygdalofugal tract and terminated in the lateral hypothalamic area and the lateral tuberomammillary area. The ventral projection originated in the centromedial amygdaloid division (in the striato-amygdaloid transition area), coursed through the ventral peduncle of the lateral forebrain bundle, and reached the lateral posterior hypothalamic nucleus, continuing caudally to the hindbrain. Such a pattern of the amygdalo-hypothalamic projections has not been described before, and its functional implications in the transfer of multisensory information to the hypothalamus are discussed. The possible homologies with the amygdalo-hypothalamic projections in mammals and other vertebrates are also considered.
Lanza, B. (1948) -
Lanza, B. (1952) -
Lanza, B. (1954) -
Lanza, B. (1958) -
Lanza, B. (1967) -
Lanza, B. (1968) -
Lanza, B. (1972) -
Lanza, B. (1973) -
Lanza, B. (1976) -
Lanza, B. (1980) -
The gaps as yet existing in our knowledge on the palaeogeography of the Mediteranean area, one of the most geologically «restless» on the globe, the scarcity of palaeontological data on amphibians and reptiles (often identified or identifiable only as far as the genus or family) as well as the uncertainties on the systematic position and true relationships of several of the taxa involved make many of the following conclusions on the origins of the herpetological population of Sardinia opinable. This population seems to have occurred i n at least five periods: 1) premiocenic age (taxa deriving from ancestors already present on the Sardinian Corsican microplate prior to its detachment from the main European plate): Euproctus platycephalus, Hydromantes genei, Discoglossus sardus?, Phyllodactylus europaeus??, Algyroides fitzingeri?, Archaeolacerta bedriagae?, Podarcis tiliguerta?; 2) messinian age (salinity crisis of the Upper Miocene), from European or African areas: Hydromantes flavus, Hydromantes imperialis, Hydromantes n.sp., Discoglossus sardus? Hemìdactylus turcicus??, Tarentola mauritanica??, Phyllodactylus europaeus?, Algyroides fitzingeri?, Archaeolacerta bedriagae?, Podarcis tiliguerta?, Chalcides chalcides?, Chalcides ocellatus?, Coluber hippocrepis?, Natrix natrix?, Natrix maura? 3) pliocenic age: Bufo viridis?, Hyla sarda, Hemìdactylus turcicus??, Tarentola mauritanica??, Natrix natrix?; 4 ) pleistocenic age (Cassian regression), from Tuscany across the so-called Elba-Brücke: Bufo viridis? Emys orbicularis, Testudo hermanni?, Hemìdactylus turcicus?, Tarentola maurìtanica?, Podarcis sicula?? Coluber viridiflavus, Elaphe longissima?, Natrix natrix?; 5) protohistoric and/or historic period (transport by man followed by acclimatization): Rana sp. plurimae of the «Rana escidenta-complex», Testudo graeca, Testudo marginata, Hemìdactylus turcicus?, Tarentola mauritanica?, Podarcis sicula?, Chalcides chalcides??, Chalcides ocellatus??, Coluber hippocrepis??, Elaphe longissima?, Natrix maura??, Testudo hermanni?.
Lanza, B. (1983) -
Herpetological research in Somalia dates from 1881 (G. Revoil`s Expedition) and progressively spread over most of the Somali territory thanks above all to the scientific missions conducted by R.H.R. Taylor (1929–34), G. Scortecci (1931, 1953, 1957) and, since 1959, by the University of Florence and the « Centro di Studio per la Faunistica ed Ecologia Tropicali » of the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (Florence, Italy). According to this list of the amphibians and reptiles reported to date for the Somali Democratic Republic, there are 27 species of amphibians, four of which (= 14.8%) are endemic; all these species belong strictly to the Ethiopian subregion sensu Darlington (1957). A monotypic genus, Lanzarana, is endemic. The reptiles are represented by at least 200 species. Excluding the marine species (six turtles and one snake), there are 194 species, of which 75 (= 38.6%) ar endemic to Somalia. Four genera are endemic: Xenagama (Agamidae), Haackgreerius gen. n. (Scincidae), Aeluroglena and Brachyophis (Colubridae). The majority of the Somali reptilian fauna is composed of species belonging strictly to the Ethiopian subregion sensu Darlington (1957): 164 species (= 84.5%). The remaining 30 species (= 15.5%) have a different, prevalently south-Mediterranean geonemy. Some reptiles inhabiting both Somalia and south-west Arabia confirm the well-known close biogeographic relationship existing between the two countries.
Lanza, B. (1988) -
Lanza, B. (1990) -
Lanza, B. & Adriani, B. & Romiti, M. (1971) -
Description of Lacerta sicula paulae n. subsp. from the islet S. Ianni (about 3 km south of Maratea; Lucania; ltaly; Tyrrhenian Sea), a blue-bellied melanistic lizard very similar to the famous L. s. coerulea living on the Faraglioni rocks close to Capri. L. s. paulae is distinguished from L. s. coerulea by having a smaller size (maximum head and body length of 71 mm instead of 87), no scutum massetericum and a lighter dorsal ground colour.
Lanza, B. & Borri, M. (1969) -
Lanza, B. & Boscherini, S. (2000) -
The authors point out that the grammatical gender of the genera Podarcis (Reptilia Sauria Lacertidae), Pelamis (Reptilia Serpentes Hydrophiidae) and Uropeltis (Reptilia Serpentes Uropeltidae) is feminine.
Lanza, B. & Brizzi, R. (1974) -
Lanza, B. & Brizzi, R. (1977) -
Lanza, B. & Bruzzone, C.L. (1959) -
Lanza, B. & Bruzzone, C.L. (1960) -
Lanza, B. & Capolongo, D. (1972) -
Description of Lacerta sicula klemmeri n. subsp. from the islet of Licosa (about 50 km south of Salerno, Campania, Italy, Thyrrhenian Sea), a blue-bellied, feebly melanistic, patternless, giant sicula-species, distinguished from the other strongly blue- bellied races of the same species as follows: L. sicula klemmeri n. subsp.: much !arger than L. s. paulae and L. s. salfii (maximum head and body length: 8 85 mm, S2 78 mm); dorsally reticulated or striated specimens lacking; less melanistic than L. s. coerulea, L. s. salfii and L. s. paulae; on the whole less cyanistic than L. s. coerulea and L. s. paulae; scutum massetericum always present; mid- body scales: 8 68-73 (69,8), S2 59-70 (64,5). L. sicula coerulea (EIMER) (islets Faraglione di Fuori and Faraglione di Mezzo, near the island of Capri, Prov. of Napoli, Campania): same size; dorsally reticulated or striated specimens present; more melanistic and, on the whole, more cyanistic than L. s. klemmeri; scutum massetericum almost always present; midbody scales: 8 67-79 (73,4), S2 67-71 (68,6). L. sicula paulae LANZA, ADRIAN! & RoMrTI (islet S. Ianni, 3 km south of Maratea, Lucania): much smaller than L. s. klemmeri (maximum head and body length: 8 71 mm, S2 66 mm); all the population is dorsally reticulated; more melanistic and, on the whole, more cyanistic than L. s. klemmeri; scutum massetericum almost always lacking or, if present, extremely small; midbody scales: 8 73-78 (75,7), 76 in the only known female. L. sicula salfii LANZA (islet Vivaro di Nerano, Gulf of Salerno, Campania): much smaller than L. s. klemmeri (maximum head and body length: 8 78 mm, S2 72 mm); all the population is dorsally reticulated; more melanistic than L. s. klemmeri; scutum massetericum always present; midbody scales: 8 65-73 (68,5), S2 61-70 (66,0). Some of the less cyanistic specimens of L. s. klemmeri (halfgrown ones!) look like ehe patternless and more cyanistic individuals of L. sicula mertensi WETTSTEIN, a feebly differentiated continental race inhabiting the region of Paestum, Giungano and Capac- cio in the Gulf of Salerno.
Lanza, B. & Cei, J.M. & Crespo, E.G. (1977) -
Immunological reactions tested according to Libby`s photronreflectometric technique show that: (i) Archaeolacerta Mertens, 1921, and Podarcis Wagler, 1830, are independent genera and not subgenera of Lacerta Linnaeus, 1758; (ii) Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768), Podarcis sicula (Rafinesque, 1810), Archaeolacerta bedriagae (Camerano, 1885), Archaeolacerta monticola (Boulenger, 1905), Lacerta lepida Daudin, 1802, Lacerta schreiberi Bedriaga, 1878 and Lacerta viridis (Laurenti, 1768) are full species; (iii) Podarcis tiliguerta is a subspecies of P. muralis: P. muralis tiliguerta (Gmelin, 1789).
Immunological reactions tested according to Libby`s photronreflectometric technique show that: (i) Podarcis wagleriana Gistel, 1868 and P. filfolensis (Bedriaga, 1876), two allopatric and morphologically very similar lizards of the Sicilian-Maltese Pelagian area, are full though very closely related species; (ii) Podarcis muralis marcuccii (Lanza, 1956), a strongly differentiated microinsular form of Wall-Lizard from Tuscany, actually belongs to the species muralis; (iii) the percentage of common antigens is still remarkable between the Lacertidae, Teiidae and Iguanidae. It is confirmed that Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) and P. sicula (Rafinesque, 1810) are full species.
Lanza, B. & Cesaraccio, G. & Malenotti, P. (1984) -
Lanza, B. & Poggesi, M. (1975) -
Lanza, B. & Poggesi, M. (1986) -
Lanza, Bendetto Garavelli, P. & Corti, C. (1993) -
Laoufi, H. (0000) -
Les amphibiens et les reptiles insectivores comme les lézards constituent une part importante dans le fonctionnement des écosystèmes arides en leur qualité de lien entre les prédateurs vertébrés et la proie invertébrée. les lézards du genre Acanthodactylus est celui qui caractérise le mieux les populations de lézards du paléarctiques occidental et sahélien. Les travaux réalisés sur l’herpetofaune, montre l’intérêt que porte l’espèce Acanthodactylus scutellatus sur le plan écologique, taxonomique et évolutif car elle joue un rôle important dans l’équilibre des écosystèmes désertiques. A fin de connaitre l’écologie de cette espèce on c’est basée sur l’étude du comportement alimentaire qui est chez les ectotherme un paramètre crucial dont dépend certaines performances et activités comme la reproduction.
Laoufi, H. (2010) -
Lapiedra, O. (2023) -
Invasive predators wreak havoc on island ecosystems worldwide. The impact of these invasions is particularly strong when they decimate predator naïve mesopredators, which often play key roles for ecosystem functioning. Our previous research has provided evidence that behavior determines survival of mesopredators exposed to novel predators. It is still not well understood, however, if behavior is a crucial factor determining the success of animal populations coping with invasive predators. In our research laboratory we are currently addressing this question taking advantage of a natural experiment in the Mediterranean. In Ibiza, an endemic keystone mesopredator, the iconic Ibiza wall lizard, is being rapidly decimated by a rapidly spreading predatory whiptail snake. By combining field and lab experiments with cuttingedge molecular tools we are trying to decipher the evolutionary dynamics of the behavior of both native mesopredators and invasive top predators. In addition, we examine whether and how these behavioral shifts alter ecological interactions and modify ecosystem functioning. In this talk, I will provide an overview on the work my research lab is currently carrying out in Ibiza. Our integrative approach includes studying potential adaptive change in the behavior, morphology of endemic lizards as well as potential phenotypic shifts of their rapidly spreading predators. Importantly, we are also investigating if the reduction of number and even total extirpation of keystone lizards is having an impact through cascading consequences for other organisms (both animals and plants) at the level of the entire biological community across the island. In addition. Finally, I will also present our empirical work testing the hypothesis that urban areas might be acting as refuges for populations of this endemic lizard and introduce planned work for genomics. Our integrative understanding of the dynamics of animal behavior from genes to ecosystems should transcend this study system and significantly contribute to the conservation of island ecosystems worldwide. We hope our work will promote wellinformed, effective, management strategies for biodiversity conservation of this delicate Mediterranean ecosystems but also for other threatened island ecosystems worldwide.
Lapini, L. (1984) -
Lapini, L. (2006) -
Lapini, L. (2015) -
After a short synthesis of the present knowledge on the distribution of the Horvath’s rock lizard (Iberolacerta horvathi) in Italy, the Author refers about the discovery of a second population of the species on the Dolomites (Italia north-eastern Italy, Veneto Region). It dwells on the climbing wall of mount Tudaio (960 m a. s. l., Vigo di Cadore, Belluno) and has been detected thanks to the recovery of one Horvath’s rock lizard predated by a smooth snake female (Coronella austriaca) falling down from about 15 meters high. From its throat has been extracted a male of Iberolacerta horvathi determined by means of already known diagnostic characters: wide contact between rostral and frontonasal scales, flat and polygonal dorsal scales, caudal rings of regularly alternated thickness (one about a half of the other), bright white unspotted throat, bright yellow-lemon bellies. Status and consistency of the new population of Horvath’s rock lizard is not well known, but it is possible to note that at the bottom of the climbing wall the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) seems to be quite frequent.
Lapini, L. (2017) -
After a short synthesis of the present knowledge on the distribution of the Horvath’s rock lizard (Iberolacerta horvathi) in Italy, the Author refers about recent news and field verifications on the distribution of the lizard in Veneto and Friuli Venetia Giulia Regions (north-eastern Italy).
Lapini, L. & Dal Farra, A. (1994) -
Lapini, L. & Dall`Asta, A. (2004) -
The authors present a databank on the distribution of Lacerta agilis in Trentino Alto Adige and Friuli-Venezia Giulia (north-eastern Italy) based on bibliographic and museum data as well as field surveys. In these regions, the sand lizard seems to be very rare. Up to now, in the area surrounding Bozen (Alto Adige), the presence of the species has not been confirmed, since the labels of some historical museum samples do not allow any precise localities to be identified. In Friuli-Venezia Giulia, the lizard has only been signalled in the Danube Catchment near Tarvisio, and at the border of the Julian Pre-Alps, near Gorica. In the area of Tarvisio, neither an unpublished datum from the Carnic Alps nor the data from Fusine in Valromana have been confirmed. Moreover, the record from Gorica comes from a label of an old museum sample, and may refer to a very wide area around this town, probably in Slovenia. What is more, assuming that the present situation might be heavily underestimated, the species in north-eastern Italy must be considered seriously endangered, perhaps on the verge of local extinction.
Lapini, L. & Dall’Astra, A. & Luiselli, L. & Nardi, P. (2004) -
After a provisional review of the knowledge on Lacerto horvathi in Italy, the authors present new data on its distribution, spacing strategy and territoriality. The species is quite common in various mountainous habitats of north-eastern Italy, both in Friuli- Venezia Giulia (Udine Province, more than 55 localities; Pordenone Province, 1 locality) and Veneto (Belluno Province, 1 locality). In these areas, it lives from 250 (Pradolino Gorge, Pulfero, Udine) to 2000 metres a.s.l.. (M.te Ponza, Tarvisio, Udine). The preliminary comparison between the homing patterns of syntopic L. horvathi and Podarcis muralis suggests that this last-mentioned species is characterised by wider home ranges — 3-9 times bigger than those of L. horvathi — showing a very high inter-specific aggressiveness. However, in deeper gorges, in cool valleys with Dinaric orientation, as well as on top of mountains, L. horvathi tends to vicariate P. muralis for various differences in both spacing, thermal, and reproductive strategies. In north-eastern Italy, such vicariance on average gradually occurs between 700 and 900 meters above sea level.
Lapini, L. & Dorigo, L. & Glerean, P. & Giovannelli, M.M. (2013) -
The Authors outline the present situation and distribution maps of 118 animal species of European Community interest protected by the EU 92/43/EEC Directive in Friuli Venezia Giulia Region (North-eastern Italy). They belong to various phyla and classes (Mollusca [6 species], Annelida [1 species], Arthropoda [27 species], Vertebrata [84 species]), at various degrees of protection included in the lists of the so-called Habitat Directive (All. II, IV, V). In the present situation the main conservation problems concern various hygrophilous lowland-dwelling species, highly menaced from agriculture, pollution and habitat fragmentation. A lot of meadow-dwelling species, on the contrary, are menaced by forest expansion in various karstic and mountain environment. The great expansion of the mountain woods on the alpine mountain chain, on the other hand, has surely favoured various forest species, like a lot of big and medium Carnivores.
Lapini, L. & Guzzon, C. (2003) -
Lapini, L. & Morisi, A. & Bagnoli, C. & Luiselli, L. (1988) -
Lapini, L. & Richard, J. (2006) -
Lapini, L. & Richard, J. & Dal Farra, A. (1993) -
Lapini, L. & Sindaco, R. (2006) -
Largen, M.J. (1997) -
Most herpetological research in Eritrea was conducted during the period 1827–1930 and was almost exclusively the preserve of Italian enthusiasts, who concentrated their efforts within an 80 km radius of Asmara. Virtually no field work has been undertaken on the Eritrean mainland in the past 65 years and a great deal still remains to be learned about the composition, distribution and status of the herpetofauna. The 109 species provisionally listed in the present work (Anura 19, Testudines 9, Crocodylia 1, Sauria 45, Serpentes 35) are predominantly savanna (37.5%) and deserticolous (33.1%) forms and the Eritrean highlands are impoverished by aridity. Of eight taxa which extend into this region from the Ethiopian Plateau, only three appear to be genuinely montane and the ability of the remainder to colonise lowland sites elsewhere in their ranges is taken as evidence of their resistance to drought conditions. Rhinotyphlops erythraeus (Scortecci 1928), which is known only from the type locality at an altitude of 2200 m, might conceivably be an Eritrean montane endemic, but the two nominally endemic anurans have no evident associations with high elevations and may therefore extend into neighbouring territories. The taxonomic status of Phrynobatrachus tellinii Peracca 1904 is very uncertain, but it has been possible to reach more definite conclusions about Rana cornii Scortecci 1929 and R. demarchii Scortecci 1929 following examination of the single surviving syntype of each species, recently rediscovered in London. The evidence from these specimens is that R. cornii is a junior synonym of Ptychadena schubotzi (Sternfeld 1917), while the name demarchii seems to represent a valid species which is most appropriately retained in the genus Rana (sensu DUBOIS 1992), at least until its relationships can be more satisfactorily determined on the basis of fresh material.
Largen, M.J. & Spawls, S. (2006) -
This review lists Agama smithii Boulenger 1896 as a synonym of Agama agama (Linnaeus 1758), Agama trachypleura Peters 1982 as a synonym of Acanthocercus phillipsii (Boulenger 1895) and describes for the first time Acanthocercus guentherpetersi n. sp. Without more convincing evidence, Chamaeleon ruspolii Boettger 1893 cannot be accepted as specifically distinct from Chamaeleo dilepis Leach 1819, nor Chamaeleo calcaricarens Böhme 1985 from C. africanus Laurenti 1768. Consequently, 101 species of lizard are currently recognised in Ethiopia, of which some 40% appear to be denizens of the Somali-arid zone. This significant proportion is attributable in part to the importance of the Horn of Africa as a centre for reptilian diversification and endemicity, in part to the fact that this lowland fauna was rather extensively sampled during the 1930s, but also to the conspicuous neglect of lizards in other regions of the country. Mountain and forested habitats are widespread in Ethiopia, so it seems extraordinary to record only five saurian species which are believed to be endemic in such environments. The inference that there are many more still to be discovered has important implications for conservation, because montane forest is known to be among the most threatened of Ethiopian biomes and there is clearly an urgent need for its herpetofauna to be more thoroughly researched and documented.
Largen, M.J. & Spawls, S. (2010) -
Larison, B. & Smith, T.B. & Girman, D. & Stauffer, D. & Milá, B. & Drewes, R.C. & Griswold, C.E. & Vindum, J.V. & Ubick, D. & O`Keefe, K. & Nguema, J. & Henwood, L. (1999) -
Biotic surveys and a comprehensive literature review were undertaken to improve our knowledge of the biodiversity of Bioko and mainland Equatorial Guinea. Bird and mammal surveys were conducted on the mainland, and herpetological and arthropod surveys on Bioko, providing new information on species distributions and abundance. On the mainland, five areas within the proposed preserve system for Equatorial Guinea; Reserva Natural de Rio Campo, Parque Nacional de Los Altos de Nsork, Parque Nacional de Monte Alen (including Montes Mitra), and Reserva Natural del Estuario del Muni, were examined. On Bioko, the two proposed reserve areas, Parque Nacional de Pico Basilé Reserva Científica de la Caldera de Luba, as well as some lowland areas near Luba were examined. Additionally, genetic data were gathered for birds, and combined with previous data from Cameroon, to assess patterns of genetic differentiation within and across mountains in Cameroon and Bioko. We recorded only one species of bird (Malimbus scutatus) that had not been previously reported for mainland Equatorial Guinea, and no new mammals. However, valuable new information on bird and mammal distributions within Rio Muni are presented. In addition, several species and one genus of amphibians were recorded on Bioko for the first time. Approximately a third of the arthropods, including 372 species of spiders were previously unrecorded, and many are unidentifiable from the literature and may be new species. At least three endemic species of Carabid beetles were also discovered. Conservation implications are discussed in each chapter, and in a separate section (Part V) devoted to conservation recommendations. Conservation actions we recommend include: 1) Maximize protection of regions with high numbers of endemic species (Mountains/Bioko) 2) Preserve elevational gradients whenever possible 3) Create a network of preserves representing different habitat types and climatic zones, as proposed by C.U.R.E.F. 4) Increase conservation education and develop sustainable alternatives to hunting and logging. Thirteen areas have been proposed for conservation by Proyecto Conservacion Utilizacion Racional de los Ecosystemas Forestales des Guinea Equatorial (C.U.R.E.F.). These include two on Bioko, Parque Nacional de Pico Basilé and Reserva Científica de la Caldera de Luba; Nine on the mainland, Parque Nacional de Monte Alen (including Montes Mitra), Reserva Natural del Estuario del Muni, Parque Nacional de Los Altos de Nsork, Reserva Natural de Rio Campo, Reserva Natural de Monte Timeline, Monumento Natural de Piedra Bere, Monumento Natural de Piedra Nzas, Reserva Natural de Punta Llende, Reserva Científica de Playa Nendyi; one comprised of offshore islands, Reserva Natural de Corisco y Elobeyes; and Reserva Natural de Annobon, a small oceanic island. Pico Basilé and Reserva Científica de la Caldera de Luba cover a range of habitats including lowland rainforest, montane and mossy forest, forest, high elevation shrub formation, and subalpine meadows. The island is regionally important because of its genetic uniquenes and high levels of endemism. The island`s one endemic bird, Speirops brunneus, is found only on Pico Basilé, and three species of flightless Carabid beetles discovered there are likely to be endemic. The area is threatened by hunting and selective logging. Reserva Científica de la Caldera de Luba would preserve a rainforest gradient from sea level to 2260m, rivaled only by that found on Mt. Cameroon, which is threatened byconsiderablepopulationpressure. CalderadeLubaishometosevenprimatespecies, four of which are endemic subspecies, and four of which are listed as endangered by IUCN. Primate densities in this area are among the highest recorded anywhere in Africa. However, more recent surveys indicate significant declines in primate populations due to hunting. On the mainland, a number of conservation areas are proposed that would protect a variety of habitats. Parque Nacional de Monte Alen (including Montes Mitra), would, in conjunction with Reserva Natural del Estuario del Muni preserve a potentially important forested elevational gradient for species that undergo seasonal migrations or nomadic movements. The area harbors fifteen species of primates, including several which are vulnerable or endangered. Monte Alen proper is the only area in Equatorial Guinea which has formal protection (there is no hunting or gathering allowed in the park), and is the most well studied area on the mainland. Montes Mitra is a proposed extension of Monte Alen, but logging concessions have been granted within the proposed conservation area, which, together with the bushmeat industry, represent a primary threat to the preservation of an intact elevational gradient. Reserva Natural de Rio Campo will likely be one of the more difficult areas to protect, in that it is bisected by roads, and elephant and buffalo populations have reportedly already suffered from government intervention to protect crops of the local inhabitants. Nonetheless, there are some sound reasons for pursuing some level of conservation here, and the possibility of connecting this area with Cameroon’s Rio Campo Reserve, adds to its conservation value. Parque Nacional de Los Altos de Nsork has only a sparse human population around its perimeter, and has poor access to markets. Nsork is the only area (among Nsork, Rio Campo, and Montes Mitra) where we encountered sign of all three of the large primates, Gorilla, Mandrill and Chimpanzee, and the lack of access to markets may, in part, account for this. Reserva Natural del Estuario del Muni contains the largest, best preserved expanse of mangroves in the country. The area is sparsely populated and has important fisheries. The area is rich in aquatic avifauna and contains prime habitat for the manatee. Reserva Natural de Monte Temelon, Monumento Natural de Piedra Bere, and Monumento Natural de Piedra Nzas are characterized by the presence of inselbergs surrounded by well-preserved forest. These spectacular rocky formations may host endemic arthropods and herpetofauna due to their high degree of isolation, and constitute a potential ecotourist destination. Reserva Natural de Punta Llende is part of the coastal savanna/rainforest mosaic. The savanna areas include birds species found nowhere else in the country and further surveys and research are needed. ReservaCientíficadePlayaNendyiincludesisolatedturtlenestingbeacheswith associated marine habitat. Additionally, two other offshore areas, Reserva Natural de Corisco y Elobeyes and Annobon are proposed for protection. Reserva Natural de Corisco y Elobeyes includes several offshore islands with important marine bird colonies, and associated marine habitat providing feeding grounds for marine turtles. Reserva Natural de Annobon, an oceanic with its associated marine habitat, is rich in animal and plant endemics, and coral reefs.
Larrucea, J.R. & Ballesteros, E. & Ginés Grecia, Á. & McMinn Grivé, M. & Pérez Mellado, V. (2016) -
Larsen, C.T. & Henshaw, R.E. (2000) -
The predation of the sand lizard Lacerta agilis by the domestic cat Felis catus is considered. Evidence to support the predation of the former by the latter was obtained from behavioural literature on the domestic cat; data derived from tracking radio-tagged cats and anecdotal information from questionnaires of cat owners. Radio-tagged cats were observed hunting in L. agilis colonics and potential habitat. Tracking showed that more than one cat hunts at the same L. agilis colony and that cats travelled significantly faster when moving outside colonies than within them and made more stops within colonies than outsideb them. Tagged cats also return to precise locations on their hunting routes. The degree of compactness of a L. agilis colony was considered in relation to the level of cat predation at that site, and showed that cats were more likely (p<0.05) to visit colonies with a compactness ratio of <0.675 (where 1 is a perfect circle), implying that lizards within such colonies were more susceptible to predation. Questionnaire data shows that 5.7 per cent of the cats surveyed at Hesketh are known to have caught lizards within the last year and that 67 per cent of the cats from the questionnaire were regular visitors to Hesketh golf course. There is a high proportion of cats of `suitable` hunting age per number of households that live in close proximity to a known L. agilis colony or potential habitat. Cat outdoor activity strongly correlates with L. agilis activity. There are cats in the Hesketh locality of feral background and which are un-neutered. Behavioural literature suggests that despite being fed by their owners a cat`s urge to hunt is not suppressed. Literature also suggests that cats can become specialist hunters potentially capable of depleting an entire prey population. The maps denoting the lizard colonies and the routes of the radio-tagged cats are not included for reasons of confidentiality. Management proposals are offered. A comprehensive reference list is provided for future workers.
Larue, G. (1969) -
Lasso, C.A. & Rial, A.I. & Castroviejo, J. & De la Riva, I. (2002) -
In the framework of a broad study of the vertebrate diversity at Monte Alen National Park (Río Muni, Equatorial Guinea), we identified 16 families, 47 genera, and 65 species of reptiles and seven families, 29 genera, and 56 species of amphibians. 21 species of reptiles and four species of amphibians represent new records for the Río Muni region. We present the preliminary inventory of the herpetofauna as well as some ecological comments. Monte Alén is considered one of the most diverse protected areas in central Africa from a herpetological standpoint.
Lataste, F. (1874) -
Lataste, F. (1876) -
Lataste, F. (1880) -
Lataste, F. (1881) -
Lataste, F. (1885) -
Lataste, F. (1930) -
Lataste, F. (1933) -
Laube, A. (1981) -
Laube, M. (2001) -
Laube, M. & Kuehn, R., (2006) -
Laube, M. & Leppelsack, H.-J. (2007) -
Laubmann, L. (1950) -
Laue, E. (2019) -
Report on keeping and breeding of the Green Keel-bellied Lizard (Gastropholis prasina).
Laufer, H. (1997) -
Because of the construction of a new road a habitat of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) was thoroughly disturbed. The abutment of an old bridge was completely removed. The wall lizards living there were part of a larger Population. Before the demolition of the abutment a maximum of 22 wall lizards could be observed under optimal conditions. During the demolition 37 wall lizards were registered. Out of the 10 male and 22 female animals that had been marked individually, four females returned to the abutment, one male was observed at the nearby freight depot. It had covered a maximum distance of 70 metres. Two females retumed to their former territory. They covered a distance between 60 and 130 metres, one female 110 metres in 5,5 hours. Although the bridge abutment was demolished with a 140 kg steel ball, the wall lizards did not flee from the site of demolition but hid in the nearest crack.
Laufer, H. (1998) -
Der Autor hat in den Jahren 1991, 1993 und 1994 nördlich von Offenburg verschiedene Bahndammflächen auf das Vorkommen von Mauereidechsen hin kartiert. Bis in das Jahr 1997 liegen ihm darüber hinaus weitere Einzelbeobachtungsdaten vor, die insgesamt eine gute Beschreibung der besiedelten Bereiche ermöglichen und eine erste grobe Vorstellung mehr oder weniger dicht besiedelter Bereiche vermitteln. Insgesamt konnten 1993 in den untersuchten Teilhabitaten 980 Mauerei- dechsen gezählt werden. Hochgerechnet auf die Gesamtfläche geeigneten Habitates ist von einer „relativen Populationsgröße“ von 1300 bis 1500 Tieren auszugehen. Aus dieser Angabe wiederum berechnet der Autor die „absolute Populationsgröße“ mit mehr als 5000 Tieren. Der dabei verwendete Korrekturfaktor von etwa 4 resultiert aus dem Vergleich von minimaler und maximaler Anzahl von Sichtbeobachtungen in einem begrenzten Habitatbereich, die am 29.05.1993 gewonnen wurden. Der Versuch, von den Beobachtungsdaten auf Populationsgrößen bzw. Abundanzen rück zu schließen ist wichtig, scheitert hier aber an dem üb- licherweise im Rahmen von Gutachten leistbaren. Schon ein einziges, bei der „Minimalzählung“ übersehenes Tier hätte den Korrekturfaktor auf den Wert von 5 angehoben! Inwieweit auch Doppelzählungen das Ergeb- nis beeinflussen, ist nicht abschließend zu bewerten. Immerhin führt der Autor an anderer Stelle an, nur 17 von 29 adulten Tieren sicher individu- ell zugeordnet zu haben. Unabhängig davon, wie hoch die Abundanzen nun tatsächlich sind, ist dem Autor aber beizupflichten, dass es sich bei dem von ihm kartierten Mauereidechsenvorkommen bei Offenburg um eine Population handelt, die aufgrund ihrer Größe, der alljährlichen Reproduktion und der vom Autor vermuteten Ausbreitungstendenz einzelner Tiere für den Schutz der Art eine bedeutende Funktion hat. Letztere lassen es dem Autor gera- ten erscheinen, die möglichen Gefährdungsursachen wie Baumaßnahmen, Schallschutzwände und Zugfequenzen abschließen noch kurz zu be- nennen.
Laufer, H. (1999) -
Laufer, H. (2011) -
Laufer, H. (2013) -
Laufer, H. (2014) -
Der strenge Artenschutz ist ein komplexes Thema. Nur wenn sich jemand juristisch mit § 44 Bundesnaturschutzgesetz (BNatSchG) und naturschutzfachlich mit der/den betroffenen Art(en) gut auskennt und sich in die technische Planung eindenken kann, ist er in der Lage, eine „artenschutzrechtliche Beurteilung“ korrekt zu bearbeiten. Im vorliegenden Artikel soll versucht werden, gutachterliche und gleichzeitig pragmatische Empfehlungen zur Umsetzung des Artenschutzes in Bezug auf die beiden streng geschutzten Eidechsenarten, Zaun- und Mauereidechse (Lacerta agilis und Podarcis muralis), zu geben. Fundierte Untersuchungen der Eidechsenvorkommen mussen mindestens vier Begehungen wahrend geeigneter Aktivitatszeiten umfassen. Um den Bestand zu schatzen, ist unter optimalen Kartierungsbedingungen bei der Mauereidechse ein Korrekturfaktor von mindestens vier, bei der Zauneidechse von sechs anzuwenden. Im § 44 BNatSchG werden mehrere Begriffe verwendet, die nicht eindeutig definiert wurden. Hier soll versucht werden, diese Begriffe, so weit es moglich ist, zu erlautern. Es werden auch Vorschlage erarbeitet, wie zum Beispiel die lokale Population pragmatisch abgegrenzt werden kann. Es wird aufgezeigt, wie durch Vermeidungs- und Minimierungsmasnahmen erreicht werden kann, dass die Verbotstatbestande nicht ausgelost werden. So kann durch permanente oder zeitlich befristete Tabuflachen verhindert werden, dass geschutzte Lebensraume zerstort werden. Auch eine Bauzeitenbeschrankung ist eine wichtige Vermeidungsmasnahme, was das Totungs- und Storungsverbot betrifft. Durch Vergramung (d. h. Lebensraum der Eidechsen unattraktiv gestalten) kann erreicht werden, dass Eidechsen von alleine in die Flache wandern, auf der vorgezogene Ausgleichsmasnahmen durchgefuhrt wurden. Diese Masnahmen mussen aber zum Zeitpunkt der Vergramung schon die okologische Funktion im raumlichen Zusammenhang erfullen. Die vorgezogenen Ausgleichsmasnahmen konnen die okologische Funktion nur erfullen, wenn alle Teillebensraume in ausreichendem Umfang vorhanden sind. Um dies zu erreichen, werden fur eine adulte Mauereidechse 80 m2 und fur eine adulte Zauneidechse 150 m2 Lebensraum empfohlen. Ebenso bedarf es eines Reifeprozesses fur die angelegten Masnahmen, der je nach Standort zwischen drei und zehn Jahre dauern kann. Durch ein Monitoring mit Risikomanagement ist zu belegen, dass die okologische Funktion erfullt wurde. Um das Entwicklungsziel zu erreichen bzw. zu erhalten, ist eine Pflege der vorgezogenen Ausgleichsmasnahmen unerlasslich, basierend auf einem standortbezogenen Pflege- und Entwicklungsplan. Eine naturschutzfachliche Baubegleitung hat samtliche Bauarbeiten (einschlieslich der vorgezogenen Ausgleichsmasnahmen) zu uberwachen. Pro Kontrolle ist ein naturschutzfachliches Tagebuch anzufertigen, welches an Auftraggeber und Genehmigungsbehorde zu versenden ist. Umsiedlungen sind keine Vermeidungs- oder Minimierungsmasnahmen, sie konnen daher nur im Rahmen einer Ausnahme nach § 45 Abs. 7 BNatSchG erfolgen. Umsiedlungen sollten nur im ausersten Notfall durchgefuhrt werden, wenn samtliche Vermeidungs- oder Minimierungsmasnahmen nicht moglich sind. Fur den Fall, dass Umsiedlungen dennoch erforderlich sein sollten, werden Mindestanforderungen aufgestellt. Auch hier ist ein Monitoring unerlasslich. Abschliesend wird eine Checkliste erstellt, die zur Uberprufung herangezogen werden kann, ob in einer artenschutzrechtlichen Beurteilung alle erforderlichen Punkte abgearbeitet worden sind.
Laufer, H. (2015) -
Der strenge Artenschutz ist ein komplexes Thema. Nur wenn sich jemand juristisch mit § 44 Bundesnaturschutzgesetz (BNatSchG) und naturschutzfachlich mit der/den betroffenen Art(en) gut auskennt und sich in die technische Planung eindenken kann, ist er in der Lage, eine „artenschutzrechtliche Beurteilunf“ korrekt zu bearbeiten. Im vorliegenden Artikel soll versucht werden, gutachterliche und gleichzeitiog pragmatische Empfehlungen zur Umsetzung des Artenschutzes in Bezug auf die streng geschützte Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis), zu geben. Fundierte Untersuchungen der Eidechsenvorkommen müssen mindestens vier Begehungen während geeigneter Aktivitätszeiten umfassen. Um den Bestand zu schätzen, ist unter optimalen Karrtierungsbedingungen ein Korrekturfaktor von mindestens vier anzuwenden. Im § 44 BNatSchG werden mehrere Begriffe verwendet, die nicht eindeutig definiert wurden. Hier soll versucht werden, diese Begriffe, wo weit es möglich ist, zu erläutern. Es werden auch Vorschläge erarbeitet, wie zum Beispiel die lokale Population pragmatisch abgegrenzt werden kann. Es wird aufgezeigt, wie durch vermeidungs- und Minimierungsmaßnahmen erreicht werden kann, dass die Verbotstatbestände nicht ausgelöst werden. So kann durch permanente oder zeitlich befristete Tabuflächen verhindert werden, dass geschützte Lebensräume zerstört werden. Auch eine Bauzeitenbeschränkung ist eine wichtige Vermeidungsmaßnahme, was das Tötungs- und Störungsverbot betrifft. Durch Vergrämung (d.h. Lebensraum der Eidechsen unattraktiv gestalten) kann erreicht werden, dass Eidechsen von alleine in die Fläche wandern, auf der vorgezogene Ausgleichsmaßnahmen durchgeführt wurden. Diese Maßnahmen müssen aber zum Zeitpunkt der Vergrämung schon die ökologische Funktion im räumlichen Zusammenhang erfüllen. Die vorgezogenen Ausgleichsmaßnahmen könne die ökologische Funktion nur erfüllen, wenn alle Teillebensräume in ausreichendem Umfang vorhanden sind. Um dies zu erreichen, werden für eine adulte Mauereidechse 80 m² Lebensraum empfohlen. Ebenso bedarf es eines Reifeprozesses für die angelegten Maßnahmen, der je nach Standort zwischen drei und zehn Jahre dauern kann. Durch ein Monitoring mit Risikomanagement ist zu belegen, dass die ökologische Funktion erfüllt wurde. Um das Entwicklungsziel zu erreichen bzw. zu erhalten, ist eine Plege der vorgezogenen Ausgleichsmaßnahmen unerlässlich, basierend auf einem standortbezogenen Pflege- und Entwicklungsplan. Eine naturschutzfachliche Baubegleitung hat sämtliche Bauarbeiten (einschließlich dere vorgezogenen Ausgleichsmaßnahmen) zu überwachen. Pro Kontrolle ist ein naturschutzfachliches Tagebuch anzufertigen, welches an Auftraggeber und Genehmigungsbehörde zu versenden ist.
Bei Eingriffsplanungen durch die geschützte Lebensstätten von Mauereidechsen zerstört oder beeinträchtigt werden sollen, ist es häufig erforderlich, dass vorgezogene Ausgleichsmaßnahmen (CEF-Maßnahmen) angelegt werden. Um dese rechtssicher umzusetzen, sind mehrere Punkte zu beaschten. So ist es erforderlich, dass die CEF-Flächen im räumlichen Zusammenhang mit den betroffenen Lebensstätten stehen. Zwischen Eingriff und der Fertigstellung der CEF-Maßnahmen darf es zu keiner Schwächung des Bestandes kommen. Die CEF-Maßnahmen müssen zum Zeitpunkt des Eingriffes die Ökologische Funktion erfüllen. Hierzu gehört es, dass alle erforderlichen Teillebensräume erstellt wurden und ausreichend Nahrung auf der Fläche vorhANDEN IST: Es ist darauf zu achten, dass kein Zielkonflikt auf der CEF-Fläche entsteht, oder dass es zu einer zwischenartlichen Konkurrenz kommt. Um den Flächenbedarf für die CEF-Maßnahme zu ermitteln, muss der Bestand auf den betroffenen Lebensstätten bekannt sein. Bei der Ermittlung ist der gezählte Bestand mit einem Faktor (unter optimalen Bedingungen Faktor 4) und einer mittleren Flächengröße von 80 m² pro Alttier und subadultem Individuum zu multiplizieren. Eine hohe Prognosesicherheit ist zu gewährleisten. Für all diese Punkte soll versucht werden, eine praxinahe und rechtssichere Vorgehensweise aufzuzeigen.
1847 wurden im Gasthaus Salmen in Offenburg vor insgesamt 900 Teilnehmern die „13 Forderungen des Volkes in Baden“ verabschiedet. Sie bilden heute die Grundlage unseres Grundgesetzes in Deutschland und finden sich in der europäischen Verfassung wieder. Da wir an diesem geschichtsträchtigen Ort tagten haben wir die Idee der Vorgänger aufgegriffen und zum Schutz der Mauereidechse 13 Forderungen entwickelt, in der Hoffnung, dass auch unsere Forderungen den Schutzgedanken weiterbringen. Die Referenten haben vor der Tagung mehrere „Forderungen zum Schutz der Mauereidechsen“ als Entwurd formuliert. Während der Tagung hatten alle 120 Teilnehmerinnen und Teilnehmer die Möglichkleit, über diese Forderungen abzustimmen oder sie zu ergänzen. In den Pausen konnte darüber diskutiert werden. Nach der Tagung haben wir die 13 wichtigsten Forderungen zur Mauereidechse zusammengestellt.
Die Mauereidechse ist eine überwiegend südeuropäische Art, die in Deutschland an ihre nördliche Arealgrenze stößt. Verbreitungsschwerpunkt in Baden-Württemberg sind das Oberrheingebiet, der Neckarraum, Strom- und Heuchelberg sowie der Hochrhein mit angrenzendem Schwarzwald. Die höchstgelegenen Vorkommen liegen im Südschwarzwald bei knapp über 800 m ü.NN und im Nordschwarzwald bei 750 m ü.NN. Sie besiedelt aktuell vor allem Rebgebiete und Bahnanlagen. Im 19. und Anfang des 20.Jahrhunderts war sie weiter verbreitet als heute. Rückgänge sind im Wesentlichen im Schwarzwald und an der Tauber zu verzeichnen. Dioe großen Populationen mit über 1.000 Individuen befinden sich alle AUF Bahngelände: Deutliche Bestandsrückgänge wurden im vergangenen Jahrhundert vor allem durch Flurbereinigungen entlang des Neckars und in der Vorbergzone des Schwarzwaldes festgestellt. Aktuell gibt es vor allem auf Bahngelände Bestandszunahmen. Gleichzeitig ist sie hier aber durch Baumaßnahmen gefährdet. In Kombination mit anderen Gefährdungsursachen, könnte der derzeitige positive Bestandstrend durchaus umgekehrt werden. Außerdem ist zu beachten, dass der postitive Bestandstrwend eventuell nur durch die allochthonen Individuen ausgelöst wird, und die autochthonen Bestände derzeit schon rückläufig sind.
Laufer, H. & Fritz, K. & Waitzmann, M. (2006) -
Laufer, H. & Lenz, S. & Hammerschmidt, N. (2015) -
Bahnstrecken stellen wichtige Reptilienlebensräume und auch Vernetzungskorridore dar. Durch die Anlage von Lärmschutzwänden werden diese Habitate oftmals beeinträüchtigt oder zerstört und der Bestand um bis zu 90 % reduziert. Beim Baun entstehen Konflikte, die u.a. im Töten von Eidechsen, der Zerstörung von Foirtpflanzungs- und Ruhestätten und der Reduktion von Populationen bestehen können. Lärmschutzwände können Lebensräume zerschneiden und die Längs- und Quervernetzung behindern. Gezielte Vermeidungs- und Minimierungsmaßnahmen könne diese Effekte mildern. CEF-Maßnahmen können bauzeitliche Populationsschwankungen auffangen. Die Quervernetzung kann durch den Einbau von Kleintierdurchlässen erhalten werden, die Längsvernetzung wird durch gezielte Aufwertungsmaßnahmen gefördert. Basierend auf eigenen Erfahrungswerten und Literaturrecherchen werden Empfehlungen für eine artenschutzkonforme Vorgehensweise bei der Planung und Errichtung von Lärmschutzwänden formuliert.
Laufer, H. & Schleich, S. (2020) -
Laufer, H. & Schulte, U. (2015) -
Laufer, H. & Waitzmann, M. & Sowig, P. (2007) -
Laufer, H. & Wollenzin, M. (2011) -
Laurent, R.F. (1950) -
Laurent, R.F. (1952) -
Laurent, R.F. (1956) -
Laurent, R.F. (1958) -
Laurent, R.F. (1964) -
Laurent, R.F. (1965) -
Laurent, R.F. & Gans, C. (1965) -
Laurenti, J.N,. (1768) -
Laurenti, J.N. (1768) -
Laurentino, T.G. (2015) -
Understanding speciation requires the integration of ecology, evolution and the role of history in shaping the diversification or decline of lineages. To gain understanding on how variation is generated and maintained within and between natural populations, we must understand both how variation in phenotype may affect the fitness of individuals in their local environment, and how natural selection is shaping the genome of those organisms. Next generation sequencing together with new analytical approaches have fundamentally changed the scope of studies of non-model organisms and thus, the available tools to answer long-standing questions underwent remarkable evolution. We are now, more than ever before, equipped to establishing missing links between phenotype, genotype and environment, which will provide a detailed picture of the adaptive evolutionary process. Studies of the genomics of speciation along the speciation continuum are emerging in several non-model organisms, mainly where speciation is driven by ecology and divergent selection. The present study was the first applying RAD-Seq to natural populations of Timon lepidus, which allowed the analysis of thousands of polymorphic molecular markers simultaneously, across this lizard’s genome. The objective was to assess the putative incipient process of speciation between two subspecies, and further understand how populations adaptively diverge in heterogeneous environments. The SNP data generated allowed us to address different scopes of T. lepidus evolutionary history, allowing the assessment of the population genomics of this species considering differently acting evolutionary forces. The main pattern of divergence between populations reflects local adaptation rather than the expected incipient speciation pattern accordant with taxonomy, and further evidence of local adaptation and repeated ecological evolution are provided both by genomic and environmental information of this species. Phenotype assessment proved to be inconclusive regarding the taxonomic arrangement of populations and additional research should uncover this patterns. Therefore, the current taxonomy should be reviewed in the light of the speciation continuum, taking into account the pattern of local adaptation expressed by these populations.
Lauš, B. (2010) -
Laus, B. (2016) -
During research of the amphibians and reptiles of Krapina-Zagorje County, several individuals of the Viviparous Lizard, Zootoca vivipara, were recorded at two locations on Macelj Mountain for the first time. The closest known record in Croatia is Žumberak Mountain, approximately 70 km to the southwest. The new records represent the first data about this species in the Hrvatsko Zagorje region, expanding the known distribution range towards the north. New records are important to better understand the distribution and habitat requirements of this species, since it is listed as data deficient (DD) in the Red Book of amphibians and reptiles of Croatia.
Laus, B. & Jelic, D. & Buric, I. & Kolaric, A. & Koren, T. (2012) -
Over the four year period (2007–2010), the authors conducted a field study aimed at drawing up an inventory of batrachofauna and herpetofauna of the Zrmanja river catchment area. Eight species of amphibians and twenty one species of reptiles were detected; through the available literature overview two more reptilian and one amphibian species were added to the list. Therefore, we proved the presence of thirty two species in total. High diversity of amphibians and reptiles indicates great significance of this area and imposes the need to ensure survival of these species through long-term populations monitoring and conservation measures.
Lawrence, S.W. & Leviton, A.E. (1962) -
Lawson, R. (1952) -
Lawson, R. (1962) -
Lazar, V. (2005) -
This papar presents several ways of finding out the number of lizards on a predetermined area. The study took place in a sandy biotope from the sounthern region of Dolj, on an area shaped like a square, measuring about 10000 square meters.
Lazareva, O.G. (1999) -
Lazareva, O.G. (2009) -
Lazarkevich, I. & Engibarov, S. & Mitova, S. & Vacheva, E. & Popova, S. & Stanchev, N, & Eneva, R. & Gocheva, Y. & Ilieva, Y. & Najdenski, H. (2024) -
Compared to other reptile groups in Europe, lizards have generally been neglected and understudied in terms of microbiota research. In this study, we aimed to isolate, identify and characterize the aerobic cloacal microflora of wild-dwelling lizard hosts. We examined a total of 86 individuals from five species belonging to three families: the European green lizard (Lacerta viridis), the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), the meadow lizard (Darevskia praticola) (Lacertidae), the European snake-eyed skink (Ablepharus kitaibelii) (Scincidae) and the European slow worm (Anguis fragilis) (Anguidae) which co-occur in a low-mountain region in Western Bulgaria. In general, a similar composition of the resident microbial communities in the cloaca was found, accompanied by variation in the relative abundance of some bacterial taxa between the lizard species. A variety of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria was isolated from the cloacal samples. Some of these bacteria are also known as opportunistic pathogens, both for hosts and humans. The bacterial species Hafnia alvei, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella oxytoca and representatives of Enterobacter spp., Citrobacter spp. and Enterococcus spp. were among the most prevalent.
Lazic, M. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2013) -
Vegetation coverage can have a significant effect on lizard populations, providing them with suitable refuges, making them less apparent to predators, and in turn, lowering the predation pressure. Also, increased body condition can be expected since food availability is increased in habitats rich in vegetation. Here we examined relation between increase in vegetation coverage and change in frequency of broken tails, tick load and body condition in two consecutive years in one local population of Podarcis muralis. As a control group we used neighbouring population with similar predators, habitat, climate conditions, but where vegetation coverage did not change within the same time period. Frequency of broken tails decreased considerably in first population, while in the control one it did not change significantly in males. Body condition increased in females in both populations, but in males only in first one. Tick load remained the same in both populations and years. As exposure to predators is the most important factor influencing incidence of autotomy, we can attribute observed changes to decreased susceptibility to predation attacks.
Lazic, M.M. & Carretero, M.A. & Mihailov-Krstev, T. & Lazarevic-Macanovi, M. & Krstic, N. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2012) -
Skin lesions frequently present in adult lizards may be due to a variety of causes, both physical and infectious, including excessively high humidity and environmental temperature, malnutrition, concurrent disease etc. On the other hand, skin lesions in lizards could be simple evidence of various behavioural patterns and biotic interactions. However, studies on frequencies of dermal lesions and their anatomical and environmental correlates in lacertid lizards are rare. Here, we use Podarcis muralis to analyse the relations between occurrence of ectodermal lesions and three possible indicators of environmental stress (body condition index – BCI, infestation by ticks and tail condition) by evaluating differences among local populations at uni- and multivariate level. Our results showed that BCI, together with body size and sexual size dimorphism, varied between populations but had no direct influence on the presence of lesions. Males had higher frequencies of lesions and ticks but lower frequencies of broken tails than females. All three parameters varied between sites likely due to differences in predation/parasite exposures and agonistic interactions with conspecifics between sexes and populations. Results of multivariate analyses suggested that the occurrence of lesions is decoupled from the other morphological stress indicators. Detected associations indicated that relations between presence of lesions and other analysed variables are rather complex. Directions for further research on ectodermal lesions in lacertid lizards are provided.
Lazic, M.M. & Carretero, M.A. & Crnobrnja-Isailoviv, J. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2015) -
When populations experience suboptimal conditions, the mechanisms involved in the regulation of phenotypic variation can be challenged, resulting in increased phenotypic variance. This kind of disturbance can be diagnosed by using morphometric tools to study morphological patterns at different hierarchical levels and evaluate canalization, developmental stability, integration, modularity, and allometry. We assess the effect of urbanization on phenotypic variation in the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) by using geometric morphometrics to assess disturbance to head shape development. The head shapes of urban lizards were more variable and less symmetric, suggesting that urban living is more likely to disturb development. Head shape variation was congruent within and across individuals, which indicated that canalization and developmental stability are two related phenomena in these organisms. Furthermore, urban lizards exhibited smaller mean head sizes, divergent size-shape allometries, and increased deviation from within-group allometric lines. This suggests that mechanisms regulating head shape allometry may also be disrupted. The integrated evaluation of several measures of developmental instability at different hierarchical levels, which provided in this case congruent results, can be a powerful methodological guide for future studies, as it enhances the detection of environmental disturbances on phenotypic variation and aids biological interpretation of the results.
Lazic, M.M. & Carretero, M.A. & Zivkovic, U. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2017) -
Animals living in urban areas experience additional stress compared to those inhabiting more natural habitats. This could influence their physical state and ability to cope with parasites. Here, effects of environmental disturbances on body condition and prevalence and load of blood parasites in the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) were investigated by comparing these indices between five urban and five rural populations. The physical condition index was lower in urban areas, and females were the most affected sex. This suggests significant fitness costs, as survival and reproductive output are often tightly linked to body condition. Prevalence of blood parasites was more variable in urban (2.5–100%) compared to rural (50.0–75.6%) populations, with no statistically significant differences between the two habitats. Prevalence of blood parasites increased with body size. Parasite load was significantly higher in urban lizards, suggesting strong effects of ur-banisation on host–parasite interaction. An increased concentration of blood parasites should affect fitness since various aspects of physiology are compromised in parasitised animals. Larger animals were more frequently and more severely infected, most likely due to their being longer and more frequently exposed to parasites. No differences between sexes in both prevalence and intensity were found, suggesting equal susceptibility or exposure to parasites.
Lazić, M.M. & Crnobrnja-Isailović, J. (2011) -
Abnormalities in scalation are common in lizards. Bilateral asymmetries are frequent, as are supernumerary scales. Factors possibly responsible for such developmental anomalies are inbreeding and environmental stress. Here, we report two cases of accessory femoral pores in a Podarcis muralis from Southern Serbia.
Lazic, M.M. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2012) -
Lazić, M.M. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Crnobrnja-Isailović, J. (2013) -
The increase in human activities that leads to wildlife decline and species extinction poses an urgent need for simple indicators of environmental stress in animal populations. Several studies have suggested that fluctuating asymmetry (FA) can be an easy, direct measure of developmental instability because it is associated to environmental stress and, as such, it can be a useful indicator of population disturbance. We examined three different morphological traits in urban and rural populations of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) to test whether anthropogenic disturbance causes an increase in FA. Compared to rural populations, urban ones showed higher levels of FA in all analyzed traits, thus providing evidence that FA can respond to anthropogenic disturbance. However, we also found significant differences in FA among traits, where femoral pores and subdigital lamellae, traits with a functional relevance, were more stable developmentally compared to supracilliar granules which have no evident function. Unsigned FA [abs(right-left)] exhibited significant, but weak, positive correlations among traits, indicating that developmental noise does not have a uniform effect across characters and thus questioning the view of developmental stability as an organism-wide property. The degree of signed FA (right-left) was more similar between structurally associated traits, possibly as an outcome of morphological integration. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that FA can be a reliable indicator of disturbance provided that it is analyzed on multiple traits simultaneously and examined at the population level.
Lazic, M.M. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2013) -
Fluctuating asymmetry (FA) regards to minor, random deviations from perfect bilateral symmetry being often used as a measure of developmental stability. Stress, both environmental and genomic has been demonstrated to increase the level of FA in morphological traits. It is suggested that since organisms need energy to compensate for stress, the amount of energy available for growth and maintenance of developmental precision is reduced. Compared to other indicators of stress, FA is easy and inexpensive. Here we tested whether urban populations of P. muralis, which are expected to be under higher environmental stress due to exposure to contaminants, show increased levels of FA compared to rural populations. We examined the degree of FA in three morphological traits (number of femoral pores, subdigital lamellae and supracilliary granules) in 10 populations of Podarcis muralis - five urban and five rural ones. Trait size dependence, directional asymmetry, antisymmetry and measurement error were quantified for all three traits in both sexes and in all populations. Since all traits fulfilled the FA criteria we proceeded to FA analyses. The degree of FA varied between populations, and also between traits, but not between sexes. Populations inhabiting urban areas showed higher degree of FA when compared to rural ones. Increased FA in urban areas can be a result of nutritional stress of pregnant females and/or embryos, chemical pollution and inadequate incubation temperatures.
Lazzari, M. & Franceschini, V. (2001) -
The present immunoperoxidase cytochemical study describes the distribution of glial intermediate filament molecular markers, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and vimentin, in the brain and spinal cord of the adult lizard, Podarcis sicula. GFAP immunoreactivity is abundant and the positive structures are mainly represented by fibres of different lengths which are arranged in a rather regular radial pattern throughout the CNS. They emerge from generally immunopositive radial ependymoglia and are directed from the ventricular wall towards the meningeal surface. The glial fibres give origin to endfeet which are apposed to the blood vessel walls and subpial surface where they form the continous perivascular and subpial glia envelopes, respectively. In the optic tectum and spinal cord, star-shaped astrocytes coexist with radial glia. In the spinal cord, cell bodies of immunopositive radial glia are displaced from the ependyma. While vimentin immunoreactive elements are almost completely absent in the brain except for a few diencephalic radial fibres, the spinal cord ependyma exhibits a clearly vimentin positivity and no GFAP staining. In the Podarcis CNS the immunocytochemical response of the astroglial intermediate filaments appears typical of mature astroglia cell lineage since it fundamentally expresses GFAP immunoreactivity. Moreover, this immunocytochemical study shows that the Podarcis fibre pattern with predominant radial glial cells is morphologically more immature than in avians and mammalians, a condition suggesting that reptiles represent a fundamental step in the phylogenetic evolution of vertebrate astroglial cells.
Le Henanff, M. (2011) -
Living organisms are exposed to environmental fluctuations (including temperature) at the daily, seasonal or annual scale. In ectotherms, environmental temperature directly affects body temperature and thus the physiology, locomotory performance, activity and ultimately the fitness of individuals. Embryonic development is a very sensitive step to thermal fluctuations and ectotherms have deployed a variety of means to buffer its effects. In annual multiple clutches species, reproduction spread over an extended period during which the seasonal thermal conditions vary widely. These fluctuations can profoundly constrain the activity of the individuals and affect developmental trajectories. Determinants of reproductive success thus involve the consideration of environmental constraints as well as ontogeniques trajectories. Indeed, in indeterminate growth species, the nature of allocation trade-offs should strongly depends on the size and age of the individuals. Ontogenetic changes in strategies for resource allocation are expected to optimize reproductive success. In this thesis, we examined the reproductive strategies in a species with multiple clutches, the wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in a thermally challenging context (oceanic climate, Central West of France). Using an experimental approach, we demonstrated the strong impact of thermal conditions on the quality of embryonic development and the importance of phenology (laying date) on individual trajectories. Early laying dates and incubation temperatures promote high survival of juveniles. The population monitoring initiated in 2006 has highlighted the importance of age and body size of females in the allocation trade-offs. Thus older individuals cease to allocate their resources in growth and encourage the capitalization of energy. This ontogenic shift supports a higher reproductive effort and a earlier engagement in reproduction. Energy constraints induced by reproduction have also been revealed by studying the seasonal variations in levels of corticosteroids and ectoparasites. Finally the study of multipaternity emphasizes the influence of female size and laying sequence on the reproductive strategy.
Le Henanff, M. & Meylan, S. & Lourdais, O. (2013) -
Understanding variations in individual trajectories is a crucial evolutionary issue. Terrestrial ectotherms from temperate regions typically face thermal constraints and limited activity periods. Developmental conditions (i.e. embryonic life) and reproductive timing (laying date) should induce phenotypic variations and influence subsequent ontogenetic trajectories (growth and survival). We studied these combined influences in an oviparous squamate, the wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), comprising a multiple clutch species with natural variations in laying date for the first clutch. We experimentally manipulated maternal basking opportunities during gravidity (3, 6 or 9 h per day) and incubation temperature (23 or 29 °C). Early laying date positively influenced winter survival in both incubation treatments. Survival was significantly lower in cool than warm-incubated individuals (14.8% and 73.6%, respectively) because of delayed hatching date and reduced activity period before winter. Individuals from cool incubation temperature were slightly smaller but had a higher body condition and grew faster during the first month of life. Offspring behaviour was driven by complex interactions between gravidity and incubation treatments. Under cool incubation temperature, defensive behaviour was high, independently of gravidity treatment. Warm incubated individuals showed low defensive response except when maternal basking opportunities were restricted to 3 h. Defensive behaviour at birth had a positive influence on survival in cool-incubated individuals. The results of the present study highlight the long-term influence of hatching date that integrates female reproductive timing and incubation conditions.
Le, X.-G. & Hong, H.-Z. & Wang, Y.-Y. (2009) -
Leaché, A.D. & Rödel, M.-O. & Linkem, C.W. & Diaz, R.E. & Hillers, A. & Fujita, M.K. (2006) -
Our recent surveys of the herpetological diversity of the West African Togo Hills documented a total of 65 reptile and amphibian species, making Kyabobo National Park one of the most diverse sites sur- veyed in Ghana. We provide accounts for all species recorded along with photographs to aid in identification. We recorded 26 amphibians, including six new records for Kyabobo N. P., one of which is a record for the Togo Hills. Our collection of reptile species (22 lizards, 16 snakes, and one crocodile) also provides new records and range extensions for Kyabobo N. P., such as the first observation of the dwarf crocodile, Osteolaemus tetraspis. Amphibian species still lacking from our surveys in the Togo Hills include several species that are adapted to fast running water or large closed forests, like the Togo toad, Bufo togoensis and the slippery frog, Conraua derooi. Appropriate habitat for such species still remains in Kyabobo, highlighting the need for additional survey work. We draw attention to the importance of conserving forest stream habi- tats, which will in turn help ensure the persistence of forest-restricted species. We also highlight those species that may prove most useful for evolutionary studies of West African rain forest biogeography.
Lebboroni, M. & Corti, C. (2006) -
The use of roads and the mortality by traffi c collision were assessed for three lizard species ( Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis sicula, Podarcis muralis) in a hilly area of central Italy. Roads were chosen to include two different habitats and two different traffi c levels, resulting in four categories. For both habitats, the density of lizards using roads was signifi cantly higher at lower traffi c levels; the density of road killing was signifi cantly higher on roads at low traffi c too. Among the three species, the mortality of Lacerta bilineata was higher on low traffi c roads crossing pasture with shrubs.
Lebedinskii, A.A. & Biryukov, A.A. (2021) -
Leblanc, O. (2006) -
Leblanc, O. (2009) -
LeBreton, M. (1999) -
Lecomte, J. (1992) -
The decision to disperse is likely to be influenced by numerous factors rather than caused by a single event (DOBSON & JONES 1985). In particular, the ability to disperse maybe partly determined by the behaviour of individuaKconfronted with an unknown environment. In the common lizard, Lacerta vivipara, familiarity with its environment reveals a strong interaction between the microhabitat and beha- viour, which varies with sex and age (LECOMTE et at unpublished data). When dispersing, the animals encounter with an unfamiliar environment. In this study, we tried to quantify the capacity to explore, and therefore to disperse in a new environment being empty of conspecifics. In this aim, we compared the behaviour of 47 lizards of different sex and age after their introduction into an enclosure.
Lecomte, J. (1993) -
Lecomte, J. & Boudjemadi, K. & Sarrazin, F. & Cally, K. & Clobert, J. (2004) -
1 At regional scales, dispersal is known to prevent metapopulation extinction by buffering stochastic processes. Theory predicts that connectivity, through density-dependent dispersal rates, should spatially homogenize population density and synchronize local population dynamics in the long term. However, empirical evidence for the effect of connectivity on synchrony and local population dynamics remains scarce. 2 We experimentally manipulated connectivity in order to investigate the homogenisation effect on population size. The experimental design consisted of 16 patches of common lizard populations (Lacerta vivipara), half of which were connected by dispersal. The design allowed us to identify candidates for dispersal in unconnected patches. 3 We found that population sizes became spatially more and more homogeneous with time in connected patches, whereas extinctions or demographic explosions were observed in unconnected patches. Juvenile dispersal was density-dependent in connected patches but not in unconnected ones. These results suggest that the loss of connection modifies population functioning by influencing how dispersal is determined by local conditions. 4 Finally, population explosions in unconnected patches were followed by a sharp decrease in population size. So non-extinct, unconnected populations did not stabilize. This could be due to over-compensatory density dependence. 5 Population viability analysis models suggest that environmental stochasticity and catastrophic events, in addition to the density-dependent process, are required to explain population size variation and extinction.
Lecomte, J. & Clobert, J. (1996) -
Theoretical and empirical studies of the consequences of habitat fragmentation and isolation suggest that dispersal behaviour improves the persistence of local populations and that characteristics of dispersal influence the spatial structure and dynamics of metapopulations. A better understanding of the costs and benefits of dispersal could allow one to predict how populations would respond when confronted with perturbations. In this paper, the effects of preventing dispersal on the short term behaviour of the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) are studied experimentally. Situations where two experimental populations are connected were compared to situations where two experimental populations were not connected. Preventing dispersal had a destabilizing effect since it provoked dispersal behaviour in individuals which would not otherwise have dispersed. The effects on population persistence of breaking a connection between populations could therefore be more important than predicted by demographic models which do not include interactions between individual behaviour and habitat fragmentation.
Lecomte, J. & Clobert, J. & Massot, M. (1992) -
Lecomte, J. & Clobert, J. & Massot, M. (1993) -
Dans la littérature, la réduction d`activité pendant la gestation des femelles de reptiles vivipares est la plupart du temps interprétée comme un comportement d`évitement des prédateurs. Nous avons compare le comportement journalier de Lacerta vivipara gestantes et post-parturientes et la réaction de ces deux types de femelles face a un stimulus simulant un prédateur. L`activité de thermorégulation n`est pas de même type, en fonction de la température, chez les femelles gestantes et post-parturientes. Aucune différence n`est mise en évidence pour les deux types de femelles quant à la réaction a un stimulus menaçant. Bien que seulement indicatifs, ces résultats sont difficilement explicables si on envisage seulement l`hypothèse d`un comportement anti-prédateur; ils pourraient être en partie induits par les besoins physiologiques du développement embryonnaire
Lecomte, J. & Clobert, J. & Massot, M. & Barbault, R. (1994) -
Lee, J.-N. & Hur, W.-H. (1998) -
Leeuwen, B.H. & Hoef, J.C.M. van de (1976) -
Leeuwen, J. van & Leeuwen, B. van (1981) -
Lefebvre, S. (2009) -
Lefebvre, S. & Doré, F. & Grillet, P. & Thirion, J.M. & Cheylan, M. (2009) -
Legouez, C. & Marchand, M.A. (2013) -
Legrand, D. & Guillaume, O. & Baguette, M. & Cote, J. & Troschet, A. & Calvez, O. & Zajitschek, S. & Zajitschek, F. & Lecomte, J. & Bénard, Q. & Galliard, J.F. le & Clobert, J. (2012) -
Dispersal of organisms generates gene flow between populations. Identifying factors that influence dispersal will help predict how species will cope with rapid environmental change. We developed an innovative infrastructure, the Metatron, composed of 48 interconnected patches, designed for the study of terrestrial organism movement as a model for dispersal. Corridors between patches can be flexibly open or closed. Temperature, humidity and illuminance can be independently controlled within each patch. The modularity and adaptability of the Metatron provide the opportunity for robust experimental design for the study of `meta-systems`. We describe a pilot experiment on populations of the butterfly Pieris brassicae and the lizard Zootoca vivipara in the Metatron. Both species survived and showed both disperser and resident phenotypes. The Metatron offers the opportunity to test theoretical models in spatial ecology.
Legros, B. & Puissauve, R. & Massary, J.-C. de (2015) -
Lehmann, J. (2010) -
The island of Poros in Greece — no herpetological gold clump -- Poros is a small island belonging to the Saronic Islands, located 40 kilometers from Athen. The author has visited the island three times, in August 2000, September 2001 and May 2004. Following species were observed: Ablepharus kitaibelli, Cyrtodactylus kotsihyi, Lacerta trilineta and Testudo marginata.
Lehrs, P. (1899) -
Lehrs, P. (1902) -
Lehrs, P. (1909) -
Lehrs, P. (1910) -
Lehrs, P. (1912) -
Lehrs, P. (1914) -
Lehrs, P. (1928) -
Lehrs, P. (1931) -
Leighton, G.R. (1903) -
Leiker & Leiker-de Vries (1949) -
Leine, J. (2011) -
Lemieux-Labonté, V. & Vigliotti, C. & Tadic, Z. & Wehrle, B. & Lopez, P. & Bapteste, E. & Lapointe, F.-J. & German, D.P. & Herrel, A. (2022) -
Diet has been suggested to be an important driver of variation in microbiota composition in mammals. However, whether this is a more general phenomenon and how fast changes in gut microbiota occur with changes in diet remains poorly understood. Forty-nine years ago, ten lizards of the species Podarcis siculus were taken from the island of Pod Kopište and introduced onto the island of Pod Mrˇcaru (Croatia). The introduced population underwent a significant dietary shift, and their descendants became omnivorous (consuming up to 80% plant material during summer). Variation in their gut microbiota has never been investigated. To elucidate the possible impact on the gut microbiota of this rapid change in diet, we compared the microbiota (V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene) of P. siculus from Pod Mrcaru, Pod Kopište, and the mainland. In addition, we explored other drivers of variation in gut microbiota including insularity, the population of origin, and the year of sampling. Alpha-diversity analyses showed that the microbial diversity of omnivorous lizards was higher than the microbial diversity of insectivorous lizards. Moreover, omnivorous individuals harbored significantly more Methanobrevibacter. The gut microbial diversity of insectivorous lizards was nonetheless more heterogeneous. Insectivorous lizards on the mainland had different gut microbial communities than their counterparts on the island of Pod Kopište. Bacillus and Desulfovibrio were more abundant in the gut microbiota from insular lizards compared to mainland lizards. Finally, we showed that the population of origin was also an important driver of the composition of the gut microbiota. The dietary shift that occurred in the introduced population of P. siculus has had a detectable impact on the gut microbiota, but other factors such as insularity and the population of origin also contributed to differences in the gut microbial composition of these lizards, illustrating the multifactorial nature of the drivers of variation in gut microbiota. Overall, our data show that changes in gut microbiota may take place on ecological timescales. Yet, diet is only one of many factors driving variation in gut microbiota across populations.
Lena, J.-P. (1999) -
Lena, J.-P. & Clobert, J. & Fraipont, M. de & Lecomte, J. & Guyot, G. (1998) -
We experimentally investigated the relative role of kinship and density on juvenile dispersal in the common lizard. A few days after birth, juveniles were introduced into seminatural endosures, where they experienced different social environments in the first experiment we varied the density of unrelated adults (males or females) within the enclosure (0, 1, or 2 adults), and in the second experiment, we varied the level of kinship and familiarity between juveniles and adults. Each enclosure was connected to a second enclosure by small holes which allowed only juveniles to move between enclosures. Juvenile movements were monitored during 14 days after birth, as juvenile dispersal is mainly completed within 10 days after birth under natural conditions. Most juveniles did not return to the first enclosure. Sex had no effect on juvenile dispersal. Adult densityand kinship with adults both affected dispersal. Adult female density increased juvenile dispersal whatever the level of kinship and familiarity with the females. Dispersers had better body condition than nondispersers at high female densit and this difference was significantly greater when the mother and the familiar female were present in the enclosure. Furthermore, body condition of mothers and familiar females was positively correlated with juvenile dispersal, whereas there was no such correlation in the case of unfamiliar and unrelated females. These results strongly suggest that adult female density is a major factor promoting dispersal in this species and that both intraspecific and kin competition motivate dispersal.
Lena, J.-P. & Fraipont, M. de (1998) -
The ability to recognize parents has never been reported in species in which parents do not provide care to their young; in such species, only sibling recognition has been found. However, there may be several advantages of parent recognition, even in the absence of parental care. We investigated the ability of neonates to recognize olfactory cues from both their mother and siblings in the common lizard, Lacerta vivipara, a species without parental care. Juveniles from 264 gravid females were reared for 2 days either with their mother, with another female, or separated from all other adults. Juveniles from some families were split into two or three groups so that each juvenile was unfamiliar with a subset of its siblings. After 2 days, we offered the juveniles a choice of two nocturnal shelters: one containing a lizard odor and the other without odor. The response to the odor of an unrelated and unfamiliar adult was influenced by both the sex of the adult and the sex of the juvenile. Juveniles of both sexes recognized the odor of their mother whether they were familiar with her or not (pre-natal determinism). Juveniles recognized familiar but not unfamiliar siblings (post-natal determinism). In the wild, spatial association with kin declines shortly after birth. Thus, recognition of the mother is likely to have biological relevance. Recognition of the mother may reduce competition and/or enhance juvenile establishment.
Lena, J.-P. & Fraipont, M. de & Clobert,J. (2000) -
Lendenfeld, R. v. (1894) -
Lenders, A.J.W. (1996) -
Lenders, H.J.R. (1990) -
Lenders, H.J.R. (1992) -
Lenk, P. (1989) -
Lenz, S. & Fritz, K. & Schulte, U. (2020) -
Lenz, S. & Schleich, S. (2011) -
León Lobera, A.I. (2021) -
Experimental studies about any species could not be carried out without a solid foundation about its biology and natural history. However, a great amount of time, energy and perseverance are recquired in order to collect these data, especially in long-term studies at individual level. This kind of studies monitor individually recognisable animals, which allows to get repeated measures of the studied traits. Thus, access to enough numbers of recognisable individuals with known life histories provides the possibility of asking, and answering, a wide range of novel questions that are otherwise inaccesible, allowing to conduct statistical analyses and/or experiments that isolate the effect of particular traits, impossible to perform on a sample of unknown individuals. In this thesis, we aim to know in a precise way the life-history traits of a population of Lilford’s wall lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, as well as its dynamic at individual level. To do so, a capture-recapture study spanning three years from April to September was carried out on an experimental plot. During the study period, information about several aspects of the lizards’ natural history, such as their home ranges, their coloration and seasonal variability, the traits of sexual dimorphism and their pairing patterns, was gathered. Through the use of these data the influence of such individual traits on intraespecific interactions and thus, their effect on dominance, will be stablished. General results show that the studied population of Lilford’s wall lizard moves around small-sized home ranges, to which individuals are faithful. The value given to said home ranges decides the outcome of aggresive interactions among neighbours invariably favoring the residents of the home range. Additionally, reduced aggression between neighbours is observed. However, when residency factor is nonexistent, dorsal coloration predicts the outcome of male contests, much more colourful than females. Nevertheless, both sexes manifest seasonal change in their dorsal coloration, although for different reasons. Evidences for mate guarding, as well as remarkable fidelity among observed pairs, were also found during mating season. Lastly, dominance is subject to mate choice and, in females only, mate dominance appears as the only significative factor regarding females own dominance.
Lepik, T. (2020) -
Squamates possesstwo types of reproduction strategies: viviparity and oviparity. Viviparity is a reproductivemodewhere eggs areretained in body cavity until they hatch. Oviparity is a reproductivemodewhere eggs develop and hatch in the external environment. Since viviparity is more successful reproductivemodein colderareas than oviparity, oviparous squamates have developed plenty of strategies to conquer low temperatures. In total there are 108 species of oviparous squamates across Europe, but only twoof them inhabit northern areas: the sand lizard(Lacerta agilis)and the common grass snake(Natrix natrix). The common grass snake uses piles of organic matter as nesting sites where heat is generated by decomposition.The sand lizard inhabits open sandy areas where sand retains heat,which is necessary for embryonic development. The limiting factors for oviparous squamates are temperature, vegetation, soil, food availability and climate. Thus, at high latitudesoviparous squamates are not as widely distributed as viviparous squamates.
Leptien, R. (1994) -
The ecology, behaviour and first breeding of Lacerta cyanura are described. The breeding female laid three eggs every three weeks du- ring July to November. The first hatchlings were born after 59-61 days of artificial incuba- tion at 28°C. The colour pattern of hatchlings is entirely different from that of adults. The adults are dorsally light grey-brown, with a blue throat, white belly and a turquoise tail. The young have a black back and flanks with cream-yellow longitudinal stripes, a black and yellow marbled head, a very faintly yellowish or greenish underside, and a fluorescent blue tail. In contrast, the young of the presumed close relative Lacerta jayakari have almost the same colour pattern as the adults; this sug- gests a more distant relationship between the two species than has been assumed.
Leptien, R. (1997) -
Leptien, R. (2005) -
Leptien, R. (2010) -
Leptien, R. (2016) -
Leptien, R. (2020) -
Leptien, R. & Böhme, W. (1994) -
The rare Southeast Arabian lizard Lacerta cyanura ARNOLD, 1972 has been found at two additional localities (seven being actually known: GRUBER & al. 1993), which are both situated on the Musandam Pen- insula, Oman. Two males and one female are kept in captivity. The female, associated with only one of the males, so far produced 6 clutches of 3 eggs each in intervals oj roughly 3 weeks. This reproductive pattern and the juvenile dress are discussed, also in respect to the systematic relationship of this species.
Lerch, K. (1960) -
Lescano, N.V. (2010) -
Invasive populations undergo changes in genetic diversity during colonization and range expansion, which may influence adaptive ability and ultimately invasion success. Yet, surprisingly few studies have shown evidence of genetic bottlenecks expected for an invasive species. Ten individuals of the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) from northern Italy were released in Cincinnati, Ohio during the early 1950’s and has since spread to surrounding areas, reaching densities of 1500 individuals/acre where there is suitable habitat. Though this lizard has become a well established invasive in the Cincinnati region, little work has been done to quantify changes in Podarcis muralis genetic diversity during small scale range expansion. In this study, I compared genetic variation at eight microsatellite loci in the Cincinnati population to two contemporary European populations. The results show that a significant loss in genetic diversity occurred in the Cincinnati population indicating a past genetic bottleneck. Genetic bottlenecks subsequent to the initial colonization bottleneck were also detected in all but two of the seventeen subpopulations in the study. High levels of population differentiation were also found, even at small distances, which indicate minimal levels of gene flow between subpopulations. These results show that range expansion in the Cincinnati population does not occur through simple diffusion alone. Reports from citizen scientists indicate that accidental or intentional human introductions may be more common than previously thought in Cincinnati Podarcis muralis. Despite a severe genetic bottleneck, Podarcis muralis is thriving in its introduced range possibly due to an apparent lack of selective pressures. Few native lizards are present within the urban/suburban areas where they are found, there is an abundance of suitable habitat, and Cincinnati has a similar climate to northern Italy. Podarcis muralis should be closely monitored because they have the potential to spread to areas where they may pose a threat to native herpetofauna.
Lesch, H. (2015) -
Innerhalb von Rheinland-Pfalz hat sich die Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) auch auf dem Maifeld (Kreis Mayen-Koblenz) – einem der nördlichsten Standorte – in verinselten Populationen angesiedelt. Eine Population ist entlang des Maifeldradwegs zu finden, einer ehemaligen Bahnstrecke, am Stadtrand von Polch. Diese wurde näher auf ihre Bestandgröße untersucht und geschätzt werden kann eine Population von 150 bis 200 Individuen. Ausgehend von der Fragestellung, warum die Eidechsen nicht den gesaMTEN Radweg besiedelten, wurden verschiedene Parameter des Levensraums vergleichend erhoben. Es zeigte sich, dass der ehemalige Bahndamm aufgrund seiner Strukturierung auf ganzer Länge Winterquartiere, Versteckplätze und auch Eiablagemöglichkeiten, bietet. Limitierende Faktoren für eine Besiedlung sind hier vor allem in der täglichen Dauer der Sonneneinstrahlung (erforderliche Klimagunst), der Vegetation an der Böschung und im Vorland (als Jagdhabitate) sowie dem Vorhandensein eines Windschutzes zu sehen. Die besiedelten Bereiche des Radwegs könnten als Habitat durch eine abgestimmtes Mahd- und Pflegekonzept sowie ggf. durch die Anlage von Steinriegeln deutlich aufgewertet werden. Als wichtig zum Schutz und Erhalt der Populationen wird zudem eine Information der Anwohner und Eigentümer erachtet – auch vor dem Hontergrund eines nach der Erhebung stattgefundenen Eingriffs, der einen Tellebensraum zerstörte.
Lescure, J. (2008) -
Lesson, M. (1841) -
Lessona, L. (1983) -
Letacq, A.-L. (1896) -
Letacq, A.-L. (1898) -
Letacq, A.-L. (1903) -
Letacq, A.-L. (1911) -
Letacq, A.-L. (1919) -
Letacq, A.-L. (1920) -
Letacq, A.-L. (1921) -
Letacq, A.-L. (1924) -
Leu, M. & Petrovan, S.O. (2022) -
Lev, M. & Weinstein-Evron, M. & Yeshurun, R. (2018) -
Lever, C. (2009) -
Leverkühn, P. (1890) -
Leviton, A.E. (1959) -
Leviton, A.E. & Anderson, S.C. (1967) -
Leviton, A.E. & Anderson, S.C. (1970) -
Leviton, A.E. & Anderson, S.C. (2010) -
Leviton, A.E. & Anderson, S.C. & Adler, K. & Minton, S.A. (1992) -
Leviton, A.E. & Anderson,S.C. (1967) -
Lewandowski, D. & Dubinska-Magiera, M. & Garbiec, A. & Daczewska, M. (2019) -
Our studies conducted on reptilian limb muscle development revealed, for the first time, early forelimb muscle differentiation at the morphological and molecular level. Sand lizard skeletal muscle differentiation in the early forelimb bud was investigated by light, confocal, and transmission electron microscopy as well as western blot. The early forelimb bud, filled with mesenchymal cells, is surrounded by monolayer epithelium cells. The immunocytochemical analysis revealed the presence of Pax3- and Lbx-positive cells in the vicinity of the ventro-lateral lip (VLL) of the dermomyotome, suggesting that VLL is the source of limb muscle progenitor cells. Furthermore, Pax3- and Lbx-positive cells were observed in the dorsal and ventral myogenic pools of the forelimb bud. Skeletal muscle development in the early limb bud is asynchronous, which is manifested by the presence of myogenic cells in different stages of differentiation: multinucleated myotubes with well-developed contractile apparatus, myoblasts, and mitotically active premyoblasts. The western blot analysis revealed the presence of MyoD and Myf5 proteins in all investigated developmental stages. The MyoD western blot analysis showed two bands corresponding to monomeric (mMyoD) and dimeric (dMyoD) fractions. Two separate bands were also detected in the case of Myf5. The observed bands were related to non-phosphorylated (Myf5) and phosphorylated (pMyf5) fractions of Myf5. Our investigations on sand lizard forelimb myogenesis showed that the pattern of muscle differentiation in the early forelimb bud shares many features with rodents and chicks.
Lewin, A. & Feldman, A. & Bauer, A.M. & Belmaker, J. & Broadley, D.G. & Chirio, L. & Itescu, Y. & LeBreton, M. & Maza, E. & Meirte, D. & Nagy, Z.T. & Novosolov, M. & Roll, U. & Tallowin, O. & Trape, J.-F. & Vidan, E. & Meiri, S. (2016) -
Aim To map and assess the richness patterns of reptiles (and included groups: amphisbaenians, crocodiles, lizards, snakes and turtles) in Africa, quantify the overlap in species richness of reptiles (and included groups) with the other terrestrial vertebrate classes, investigate the environmental correlates underlying these patterns, and evaluate the role of range size on richness patterns. Location Africa. Methods We assembled a data set of distributions of all African reptile species. We tested the spatial congruence of reptile richness with that of amphibians, birds and mammals. We further tested the relative importance of temperature, precipitation, elevation range and net primary productivity for species richness over two spatial scales (ecoregions and 1° grids). We arranged reptile and vertebrate groups into range-size quartiles in order to evaluate the role of range size in producing richness patterns. Results Reptile, amphibian, bird and mammal richness are largely congruent (r = 0.79–0.86) and respond similarly to environmental variables (mainly productivity and precipitation). Ecoregion size accounts for more variation in the richness of reptiles than in that of other groups. Lizard distributions are distinct with several areas of high species richness where other vertebrate groups (including snakes) are species-poor, especially in arid ecoregions. Habitat heterogeneity is the best predictor of narrow-ranging species, but remains relatively important in explaining lizard richness even for species with large range sizes. Main conclusions Reptile richness varies with similar environmental variables as the other vertebrates in Africa, reflecting the disproportionate influence of snakes on reptile richness, a result of their large ranges. Richness gradients of narrow-ranged vertebrates differ from those of widespread taxa, which may demonstrate different centres of endemism for reptile subclades in Africa. Lizard richness varies mostly with habitat heterogeneity independent of range size, which suggests that the difference in response of lizards is due to their ecological characteristics. These results, over two spatial scales and multiple range-size quartiles, allow us to reliably interpret the influence of environmental variables on patterns of reptile richness and congruency.
Lewin, J. (1992) -
Lewis, B. (1990) -
Lewis, T.R. & Ramsay, A. & Sciberras, A. & Bailey, C. (2015) -
Lewylle, I. & Poel, S. van de & Speybroeck, J. & Vandebosch, B. & Engelen, P. & Doorn, L. can & Wyns, F. & Jooris, R. & Lambrechts, J. & Moysons, P. & Vandeberghe, T. & Verbelen, D. & Damen, G. & Nijs, G. & Catthoor, G. & Haute, C. van den (2018) -
You are reading the first ecological atlas of the amphibians and reptiles of the province of Vlaams- Brabant, Flanders, Belgium. This report describes the distribution of 14 native and two exotic herpetofauna species across three periods covering a period of 30 years. Distribution maps show the current and past distribution range of the different amphibian and reptile species. In this way, a trend in distribution can be detected for different species. The density of observations is visualised for each species, presenting not only hotspots but also the regions with frequent observations and reports. The last ten years, in particular the period between 2008 and 2017, there was a strong increase in the number of observations. Thanks to the website ‘www.waarnemingen.be’, launched in 2008, almost 3.000 observations were reported every year by volunteers and professionals. In 2016 alone, 4.575 observations were centralised. This amount of data is close to the amount collected during the 20 years before the start of www.waarnemingen.be (6.533 observations between 1988 and 2007. In total, the number of observation increased fourfold since 2008. 32.260 observations of amphibians and reptiles covered 55,7% of all 1x1km UTM-squares in Vlaams-Brabant. During the period between 1988 and 2007 only 28,8% of the squares were represented by at least one observation. Despite the enormous increase in observations and accompanying knowledge about species distribution, we still see room for improvement, especially in comparison to provincial atlases in e.g. the Netherlands. Therefore, we still need structured and well-coordinated data collection to fill blank spots on the distribution maps of amphibians and reptiles. Vlaams-Brabant an important region as habitat for common species that are characterising for large forest complexes and lowland river valleys since they are relatively well-connected in this province. Furthermore, Vlaams-Brabant harbours a high percentage of the Flemish Fire salamander populations, e.g. in former Kolenwoud and Hageland. It also sustains populations of Palmate newt and Alpine newt. Landscapes characterised by meadows and hedgerows in (semi-)large river valleys in Vlaams-Brabant harbour important populations of Northern crested newt and Smooth newt. This kind of landscapes could also harbour additional, but yet undiscovered, Edible frog populations, despite the increase in observations of this hybrid during the last years. The hillier regions with forests and nutrient poor but wet grasslands in Vlaams-Brabant are important hotspots for the Viviparous lizard and Slowworm. In these areas, Common frog and Common toad are the most widespread species. As well as for Fire salamander, Vlaams-Brabant is of great importance for Common midwife toad and Barred grass snake. The province harbours an important part of their Flemish populations, independently of their small distribution ranges. The Common midwife toad benefitted in the past from extensive agriculture, abandoned lands, stone and sand quarries, and ruderal and accentuated terrains with an open vegetation structure in the hilly region of Brussels and Leuven. The Barred grass snake on the other hand established quite recently at the border with other provinces. Another newcomer is the Common wall lizard, which established two large populations in the broad region of Leuven at a very short time and presumably will expand further along railway infrastructure. The Marsh frog (sensu lato) is the main character of a similar story, but colonized garden ponds, ponds for livestock and larger artificial water bodies. We presume that this species/species group will extend his range even more in Vlaams-Brabant. The Natterjack toad and the Pool frog have a larger distribution area outside Vlaams-Brabant, nevertheless there are opportunities for these species in e.g. Averbode Bos en Heide and the Zuiderkempen-area. The persistence of the Natterjack toad is extremely critic at present in the province. Species like European tree frog, Common spadefoot toad and Smooth snake are (probably) extinct, since no observations have been made for decennia. However, this should not mean that they are lost forever in Vlaams-Brabant. In the neighbouring province of Limburg, the relatively mobile European tree frog is expanding and new populations of Smooth snakes have been discovered the past years. The latter is a very elusive species and it might still be possible that there are small populations present that have been overlooked. The Common spadefoot toad is critically endangered in Flanders, but as well a very difficult species to observe. Compared to other provinces, such as Antwerp and Limburg, Vlaams-Brabant has a lower number of observations. This can be attributed to the extensive areas of heathland with fens, the widespread marshlands and clusters of ponds which are absent in Vlaams-Brabant. These areas are home to other interesting species like Moor frog and Common viper and large populations of species that are rare in Vlaams-Brabant such as European tree frog and Pool frog. In this atlas, we assess each species (and hybrid or species complex) separately, with focus on ist habitat use in Vlaams-Brabant, the percentage of sighting in and outside nature reserves and their status of occurrence in the province. We compare this data with atlases of amphibians and reptiles from Belgium and foreign countries. Furthermore, we assess the accompanying species, current threats and conservation measures for each species. In the last paragraph, we focus on bottlenecks that are threatening the populations in Vlaams-Brabant and elsewhere. Based on success stories in the field concerning species conservation combined with common knowledge on nature conservation, we formulate concrete conservation measures for the native species. We also refer to specific reports and conservation programmes. In the last chapter, we briefly discuss species that are presumably extinct in Vlaams-Brabant as well as the status of the different exotic species reported in Vlaams-Brabant.
Leydig, F. (1872) -
LFU (Bayerisches Landesamt für Umwelt) (2018) -
Lhermitte, N. & Bain, O. & Hering-Hagenbeck, S. (2007) -
Skrjabinelazia Sypliaxov, 1930 comprises 10 species distinguished by several characters typical of the genus including, among the most important, the presence/absence of spicules, cuticle ornamentation and vesicles, head-shape, the presence/absence of a leaflet crown in the buccal cavity, female tail-shape and male cone-shape. The three samples studied are new species: S. boomkeri n. sp., a parasite of Pachydactylus turneri, Gekkonidae, from South Africa (Klaserie Reserve); S. vozae n. sp., a parasite of Lacerta vivipara, Lacertidae, from France (Cévennes), which is close to two lacertid parasites, S. taurica Sypliaxov, 1930 and L. hoffmanni Li, 1934, respectively from the Crimea and North China (Peking); and S. mawsangelae n. sp. (male unknown), a parasite of Christinus marmoratus, Gekkonidae, from Australia (Pearson Island), which is, surprisingly, distinct from Skrjabinelazia sp. of Angel & Mawson (1968) from the same host in another region (North of Adelaide) of South Australia. Two main groups are distinguished in Skrjabinelazia: the species with spicules which are parasitic in the Lacertidae, and the species with a gubernaculum only which are parasitic in the Gekkonidae. The unique species described from the Iguanidae, S. intermedia (Freitas, 1940) from Brazil (Para), also without spicules, seems to be derived from gekkonid parasites, as it also has an evolved oesophagus with a glandular region, unlike the simple oesophagus seen in the larval stages of Skrjabinelazia.
Lhermitte, N. & Bain, O. & Virga, A. (2008) -
Skrjabinelazia rizzoi n. sp. (Seuratoidea), from Podarcis sicula captured at Cammarata, Agrigento Province, Sicily, is distinct from the 13 known species of the genus, including Skrjabinelazio sp. Rizzo from Catania. It is identified with the following set of characters: in the male, short spicules and gubernaculum, thin body; in the female, buccal cavity with a crown of leaflets, body cuticle without internal ornamentation, presence of cephalic and caudal vesicles, tail with a terminal digitiform spike 42-48 microm long. The morphology of the new species supports our previous hypothesis of two Skrjabinelazia lineages, one with spicules and one without spicules, respectively linked to Lacertidae and Gekkonidae. In Palearctic lacertids, five named species are presently known, S. taurica from Crimea (Ukraine), S. hoffmanni from Beijing (China), S. pyrenaica from Pyrenees (Spain), S. vozae from Cevennes (France), S. rizzoi from Agrigento Province, Sicily (Italy), but analysis of some published works suggests a greater diversity. S. rizzoi infection, found in April-May in 1/5 lizards, was recent with young females in the host`s stomach and intestine, and males in the stomach. One female contained four membranous-shelled eggs. The two other females contained a few hatched infective larvae, membranous-shelled eggs with developing embryos and, unexpectedly at this early stage, a few thick-shelled divided eggs. As in several other Skrjabinelazia species, the progeny of S. rizzoi are adapted for intra-host suprainfection and inter-host transmission, but in this species the production of resistant eggs appears in very young females.
Li G. (2005) -
In the shrub land habitat,E.argus lives in the shrub community but P.frontalis lives mainly on the field among the shrub land. The overlap of their spatial niche was small ( 0.15) but the overlap of the trophic niche was high( 0.82, Aug.).The potential competitive ability between the two species was measured by Nelson similarity coefficient.The competitive ability of P.frontalis for space was stronger than that of E.argus,but for trophic E.argus was stronger than that of P.frontalis.Measured by several factors,the Adaptability of E.argus was superior to that of P.frontalis in the shrub land.
Li, B. (2012) -
Exotic predators such as feral cats (Felis catus), have been the driving force behind the extinction of many endemic species of island mammals, birds and reptiles. Island endemics appear to be exceptionally susceptible to invasive predators because of small population size and frequent lack of anti-predator defenses. The goal of this study was to determine the impacts of feral cats on the island populations of Aegean Wall lizards (Podarcis erhardii, Lacertidae) in relationship to the expression of anti-predator behaviors. I estimated lizard population densities in areas with low cat density sites (LCD) versus high cat density (HCD) sites by conducting 100-m transect along dry-stone walls, on the island of Naxos, as well as on surrounding islets (Cyclades, Greece). Degree of expression of antipredator behaviors was determined by measuring flight initiation distance (FID) and rates of tail autotomy both in the field and in the lab for six populations in HCD, LCD sites and four satellite islets without cat presence. I also staged controlled encounters with mounted cats decoys and quantified escaping responses from lizards from these populations. I found that feral cats had a strong negative effect on lizard population densities. Lizards adapted their antipredator behaviors in response to cat predation by extending their FIDs, increasing their capacity for tail autotomy, and by staying closer to refugia. In laboratory predation simulations, lizards from cat-free islets had significantly shorter FIDs than LCD site lizards and in particular than HCD site lizards. Furthermore, some unique islet behaviors, presumably evolved in response to lack of predators and to ameliorate chronic conditions of food shortage, appear to render islet lizards strongly susceptible to cat predation. These behaviors include rarely utilizing available refugia, and moving towards anything new, including cat decoys. Nonetheless, I found that repeated exposures over three trials led to significant increases in FIDs for all populations, indicating at least some behavioral plasticity. My results suggest that although lizards may adapt their antipredator behaviors to cope with introduced predators, this offers at best only partial protection, so that there remains strong concern about their survival in the face of expanding feral cat populations.
Li, B. & Belasen, A. & Pafilis, P. & Bednekoff, P. & Foufopoulos, J. (2014) -
Exotic predators have driven the extinction of many island species. We examined impacts of feral cats on the abundance and anti-predator behaviours of Aegean wall lizards in the Cyclades (Greece), where cats were introduced thousands of years ago.We compared populations with high and low cat density on Naxos Island and populations on surrounding islets with no cats. Cats reduced wall lizard populations by half. Lizards facing greater risk from cats stayed closer to refuges, were more likely to shed their tails in a standardized assay, and fled at greater distances when approached by either a person in the field or amounted cat decoy in the laboratory. All populations showed phenotypic plasticity in flight initiation distance, suggesting that this feature is ancient and could have helped wall lizards survive the initial introduction of cats to the region. Lizards from islets sought shelter less frequently and often initially approached the cat decoy. These differences reflect changes since islet isolation and could render islet lizards strongly susceptible to cat predation.
Li, D. & Liu, J. & Zhou, T. & Guo, X. (2015) -
In this study we observed the embryonic development processes and compared the weight of eggs with neonates to identify the form of nutritional provisioning in Eremias multiocellata. We also used light microscopy to determine the features of chorioallontoic placenta during late stages of gestation. Neonatal dry weight was approximately 10.3% smaller than egg dry weight. Chorioallantoic membrane and uterine epithelium exhibited an indirect apposition without any fusion. No specialized region, placentome, has been found for nutrition transfer between these membranes. The chorioallontoic placenta of E. multiocellata is consistent with the simplest and most common type, Weekes type I. We infer that E. multiocellata is predominately lecithotrophic, meaning that nourishment for embryonic development is primarily supplied by the yolk. This kind of embryonic nutrition confirms the pattern found in most squamates with a simple placenta. This simple placenta adds anatomical evidence to understand the weak immune interaction between matrix and fetus in E. multiocellata. Finally, we discussed the implications for interpreting the evolution of viviparity and placentation.
Li, H. & Ji, X. & Qu Y.-F. & Gao J.-F. & Zhang, L. (2006) -
Reproductive success and morphological traits are intimately linked in lizards. We collected adult multi-ocellated racerunners Eremias multiocellata from a population in Inner Mongolia (northern China) to quantify sexual dimorphism and female reproductive characteristics of this poorly studied viviparous, lacertid lizard, testing for the prediction that the evolution of sexual dimorphism is promoted by between-sex differences in reproductive success relating to adult morphological traits. Adults are sexually dimorphic in head size but not in body size, with males having longer and wider heads than do females of the same body length. Females ovulate from May to June and, under laboratory conditions, they give birth to young from late June to late July. Litter size ranges from two to four young. Litter mass is positively correlated with female SVL, but female SVL only explains a small portion (approximately 19%) of variation in litter mass. Both litter size and neonate mass are not correlated with female SVL. Neonate mass is negatively correlated with relative fecundity (litter size relative to female SVL), suggesting a trade-off between size and number of offspring in E. multiocellata. Overall, selective pressures towards large male and large females are both relatively weak in E. multiocellata, and the evolution of sexual dimorphism in head size results mainly from between-sex differences in reproductive success relating to adult head size
Li, H. & Qu, Y.-F. & Ding, G.-H. & Ji, X. (2011) -
We compared adult size, female reproductive traits, and offspring phenotypes between multiocellated racerunners (Eremias multiocellata) from two thermally different sites (populations) in Inner Mongolia (North China): the colder one in Wulatehouqi (WQ) and the warmer one in Dalateqi (DQ). Both adults and neonates were smaller in the colder site. Females from the two sites both produced a single litter of 2–5 young per season, and did not differ in allocation of energy to reproduction after accounting for differences in body size. Female neonates had more ventral scales than did males, and the WQ neonates had fewer ventral scales than did the DQ neonates. The WQ neonates were slower than the DQ neonates. When body length was normalized across populations, we found that (1) hindlimb length correlated positively with sprint speed in both WQ and DQ neonates, (2) forelimb length correlated positively with sprint speed only in the DQ neonates, and (3) tail length correlated positively with sprint speed only in the WQ neonates. Hindlimb length played a more important role in locomotion than did tail length or forelimb length. Though differing in size and morphology, neonates from the two sites did not differ in early growth and survival under identical laboratory conditions. Our data are consistent with many studies that have shown countergradient variation in physiological traits (growth rate and reproductive output) and cogradient variation in morphological traits.
Li, H. & Qu, Y.-F. & Hu, R.-B. & Ji, X. (2009) -
We used a cold-climate viviparous lacertid lizard (Eremias prezwalskii) as a model system to test the maternal manipulation hypothesis. Twenty-four gravid females collected from a population in Inner Mongolia (northern China) were maintained in the laboratory for the whole gestation length, with 12 allowed to bask for 14-h daily and the other 12 for 10-h daily. Females selected lower body temperatures but did not thermoregulate more precisely when gravid. The mean gestation length was shorter in females provided with longer basking opportunity. Neonates in the two treatments differed in tail length and the number of ventral scales but not in other examined morphological traits, with offspring born in the 14-h treatment having longer tails but fewer ventral scales. Offspring were sexually dimorphic at birth, with females being smaller in tail length, head length and fore-limb length but having more ventral scales than males of the same size. Offspring born in the 14-h treatment were not only faster runners but also grew faster than did offspring born in the 10-h treatment. Our data validate the main predictions of the maternal manipulation hypothesis that females should shift selected body temperatures during gestation to provide optimal thermal conditions for developing embryos and that phenotypic traits determined by maternal thermoregulation should enhance offspring fitness. Our study is the first to demonstrate that the maternal manipulation hypothesis applies to cold-climate viviparous reptiles.
Li, H. & Wang, Z. & Mei, W.-B. & Ji, X. (2009) -
We acclimated adult males of three Eremias lizards from different latitudes to 28 °C, 33 °C or 38 °C to examine whether temperature acclimation affects their thermal preference and tolerance and whether thermal preference and tolerance of these lizards correspond with their latitudinal distributions. Overall, selected body temperature (Tsel) and viable temperature range (VTR) were both highest in E. brenchleyi and lowest in E. multiocellata, with E. argus in between; critical thermal minimum (CTMin) was highest in E. multiocellata and lowest in E. brenchleyi, with E. argus in between; critical thermal maximum (CTMax) was lower in E. multiocellata than in other two species. Lizards acclimated to 28 °C and 38 °C overall selected lower body temperatures than those acclimated to 33 °C; lizards acclimated to high temperatures were less tolerant of low temperatures, and vice versa; lizards acclimated to 28 °C were less tolerant of high temperatures but had a wider VTR range than those acclimated to 33 °C and 38 °C. Lizards of three species acclimated to the three temperatures always differed from each other in CTMin, but not in Tsel, CTMax and VTR. Our results show that: temperature acclimation plays an important role in influencing thermal preference and tolerance in the three Eremias lizards, although the degrees to which acclimation temperature affects thermal preference and tolerance differ among species; thermal preference rather than tolerance of the three Eremias lizards corresponds with their latitudinal distributions
Li, H. & Zhou, Z.-S. & Ding, G.-H. & Ji, X. (2013) -
Studies looking for potential effects of temperature and temperature fluctuations on phenotypic traits of reptile hatchlings have shown species variation, but have not always allowed a distinction between effects of fluctuation per se and temperature extremes themselves. To examine whether incubation temperature fluctuation has a key role in influencing the phenotype of offspring, we incubated eggs of the sand lizard Lacerta agilis at one of the four temperature regimes (27℃, 27±2℃, 27±4℃ and 27±6℃). We found that: (1) hatchlings incubated under the four temperature regimes did not differ from each other in any of morphological and physiological traits examined; (2) interactions that included temperature treatment did not affect any trait examined; (3) the mean incubation length was longer in the 27±6℃ treatment than in the other three treatments; and (4) female hatchlings were shorter in head length and width but longer in SVL as well as abdomen length than males derived from the same sized egg. Our data show that both the type and the magnitude of temperature variation can affect incubation length. We found no evidence for phenotypic divergence in responses to temperature fluctuations during incubation, and therefore suggest that temperature variation does not affect the phenotype of hatchlings in L. agilis.
Li, H. & Zhou, Z.-S. & Lin, L.H. (2012) -
We isolated and characterizated 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci in the rapid racerunner Eremias velox (Squamata: Lacertidae). The loci were screened in 37 E. velox individuals. The number of alleles ranged from 6 to 16. The observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.432 to 0.919, and the expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.685 to 0.902. These microsatellite markers should prove useful for population genetic studies of E. velox and other Eremias species.
Li, J. & Chang, J. & Li, W. & Guo, B. & Li, J. & Wang, H. (2017) -
Triadimefon (TF) is a widely used chiral fungicide with one chiral centre and two enantiomers (TF1 and TF2). However, little is reported about the ecological toxicity of reptiles on an enantioselective level. TF is a potential endocrine disruptor that may interfere with sex steroid hormones, such as testosterone (T) and 17beta-estradiol (E2). In our study, the lizards Mongolia Racerunner (Eremias argus) were orally exposed to TF and its enantiomers for 21 days. Plasma sex steroid hormones and steroidogenic-related genes, including 17-beta-hydroxysteroid (hsd17β), cytochrome P450 enzymes (cyp19 and cyp17), and steroid hormone receptors (erα and Ar) were evaluated. After exposure, the plasma testosterone level in the 100 mg/kgbw group was elevated, while the oestradiol level was reduced. This phenomenon may be caused by the transformation of cyp19, which may inhibit the conversion of testosterone to oestradiol and affect sexual behaviour. In addition, the two enantiomers have different effects on hormone levels, which testified to the previously reported biotoxic dissimilarity between TF1 and TF2 in organisms. Furthermore, the cyp19 mRNA level in liver and gonad of the TF2 and TF group (100 mg/kgbw) were significantly down-regulated, while the cyp17 and hsd17β mRNA levels were up-regulated. The expression of erα and Ar mRNA levels were up-regulated in males but not in females, which may indicate that TF has sex differences on these two genes. As seen from the above results, TF and its enantiomers may have endocrine-disrupting effects on lizards (E. argus) by acting sensitively on sex steroid hormones and steroidogenic-related genes.
Li, J. & Nie, L. & Zheng, P. & Song, J. & Rui, J. (2006) -
The Sox family of genes shares a high sequence similarity with the HMG box region of the human Y chromosomal gene, SRY. We used highly degenerate primers to clone and sequence seven Eremias breuchleyi Sox genes (EbSox2, EbSox3, EbSox4, EbSox11, EbSox12, EbSox14 and EbSox21). A database search for the cloned sequences revealed the following percentage identity with the homologous human SOX genes: EbSox2 = 96%, EbSox3 = 88%, EbSox4 = 94%, EbSox11 = 99%, EbSox12 = 96%, EbSox14 = 98%, EbSox21 = 97%. Cluster analysis indicates that they seem to belong to group B and group C of Sox gene family, respectively.
Li, J. & Shin, Y. & Hong, M. & Jang, Y. & Borzée, A. (2023) -
Ornamental traits such as ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence and reflectance can provide reliable signals indicating the bearer’s condition as a potential mate. UV fluorescence is widely found in nature and used for multiple functions, such as indicating female maturity in arachnids and acting as a signal enhancer in many insects. Lizards can display a broad range of colours, but the function of some of their ornamental traits remains unclear. Here, we report the presence of UV fluorescence in female Eremias argus specimens, a small lizard inhabiting Mongolia, China and the Korean Peninsula. Based on our observation, combined with the literature on the breeding behaviour of the species, we provide two hypotheses, assigning the use of UV fluorescence to: 1) an indicator of females’ body conditions and 2) signal efficacy backup. To verify our hypotheses, we suggest a protocol with three serial trials under low light and enhanced UV light conditions.
Li, J. & Wang, Y. & Li, W. & Xu, P. & Guo, B. & Li, J. & Wang, H. (2017) -
Triadimefon (TF, S-(+)-TF, R-(-)-TF) and its metabolite triadimenol (TN, TN-A1, A2 and TN-B1, B2) are two systemic fungicides and both of them are chiral pharmaceuticals which are widely used in agricultural industry. Many researches focused on the toxicity effects of triadimefon on mammals, while the ecotoxicological data of tiradimefon on reptiles is limited. In order to understand the toxicity mechanism of triadimefon in reptiles, the current study administrated S-(+)-TF or R-(-)-TF traidimefon (50 mg/kgbw) to Chinese lizards (Eremias argus) respectively, the absorption, distribution of triadimefon and the formation of triadimenol were analysed at different sampling times. The metabolic pathways were demonstrated through relative gene expression using quantitative real-time PCR reaction. During the experiment time, triadimefon was quickly peaked to the maximum concentration within 12 h in liver, brain, kidney, and plasma, eliminated slowly. The biotransformation in kidney was the lowest and fat possessed the worst degradation ability among others. The metabolite, triadimenol was detected in blood in 2 h and reached to a plateau at about 12 h in most organs (fat excepted), while the process of metabolism is stereoselective. The mainly metabolite in R-(-)-TF treated group was TN-B1, and TN-A2 in S-(+)-TF group which showed the selective metabolism to other species caused by environmental conditions, differences in the animal models and concentration of TF. The related gene expression of cyp1a1, cyp3a1 and hsd11β mRNA level in lizards showed different metabolic pathways in the liver and brain. Both P450s enzymes and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase participated in metabolic reaction in liver, while no 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase pathway observed in brain. This diversity in liver and brain may cause different degradation rate and ecotoxicological effect in different organs.
Li, J. & Zheng, P.-P. & Song, J.-L. & Rui, J.-L. & Nie, L.-W. (2006) -
Li, Q. & Zou, T. & Tang, W. & Wang, Y. & Du, W. & Wang, X. (2022) -
Sex-determining systems show a striking diversity not only among species, but also among populations. In reptiles, sex-determination is a continuum, from temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) to genetic sex determination (GSD). The multi-ocellated racerunner (Eremias multiocellata) is reported to be a cryptic ZZ/ZW chromosomal TSD species, with male-biased sex ratios at high temperatures in two Gansu populations. However, the generality of the sex-determining pattern in different populations of this species remains unclear. To investigate the mode of sex determination in a population of E. multiocellata from the desert steppe of Inner Mongolia, we first identified sex chromosomes via comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). We then conducted a thermal manipulation experiment to determine the effect of gestation temperature on offspring sex ratios. From the CGH studies we found that lizards from the Inner Mongolia population possessed ZZ/ZW sex chromosomes. However, our thermal manipulation experiment showed that gestation temperature did not affect the sex ratio of neonates in this population. In combination, these results rule out TSD in the Inner Mongolia population of E. multiocellata, and suggest that there is widespread geographic variation in the sexdetermining system of this species.
Li, R.-D. & Chen, Q. & Liu, N-.F. (1998) -
Electrocardiograms (ECG) of Eremias multiocellata were studied at 5-35 ℃ in body temperature.Electrocardiogram wave intervals (R-R,P-R,QRS,T-P,and R-T) shortened while heart rate increased with the increasing of body temperature.The average heart rate was 14.6/min at 5 ℃,whereas it was 201/min at 35 ℃.The duration of wave intervals of ECG and the heart rate were related significantly to the body temperature (P<0.001).Among the components of a cardiac cycle the cardiac rest period (TP intervals) and the atria-ventricular conduction time (PR interval) were affected mostly by body temperature.In the other hand the ventricular depolarization and repolarization (QRS and R-T intervals) were relatively less affected by the body temperature.The increasing of heart rate with body temperature was mainly caused by the shortening of ECG wave intervals,and the T-P interval (the cardiac rest period) was shortened more noticeably than other intervals.
李仁德 陈强 刘nai发 (1998) -
采用甘肃省民勤县荒漠半荒漠环境中的卵胎生蜥蜴密点麻蜥(Eremias mutiocellata)为材料,研究其心电活动随体温变化的规律以及对环境温度的适应特点。共记录密点麻蜥125只,每只蜥蜴记录5、10、15、20、25、30、35 ℃7个温度等级,每个等级15-20只;少数蜥蜴记录的温度范围扩展到40、42、44、45和46℃。环境温度采用由电接点温度计和继电器控制的电冰箱和恒温箱来控制。体温测量采用SY-2型数字式温度计,测定时插入泄殖腔2 cm。心电描记采用LMS2B型二道生理记录仪。电极为不锈钢针形电极。实验前将蜥蜴放入待测温度环境中适应2 h。被测蜥蜴背位固定于木板上,不麻醉,将记录电极的正极插入左前肢皮下,负极插入右前肢皮下,地线插入后肢皮下,插入深度均为5 mm。电极固定后待蜥蜴的体温达到预定崐温度5 min后再开始心电记录。在实验记录纸上测量各波的电压值及各间期的时间,其中R-T间期即S-T段,表示从QRS波结束到T波结束的时间,T-P间期表示从T波结束到P波开始时的时间,P-R间期表示从P波开始到QRS波开始的时间,以t测验检验相关系数的显著性。体温为5-35 ℃时的心电图中P波和T波是正向的,且幅度很低,R波幅度高于P波和T波。P波电压值为0.027-0.0525 mV,多在5-25 ℃时出现,高体温(25 ℃以上)时大多数蜥蜴心电图上P波和T波重叠,不易分辨。Q波很小,大多不易辨认,S波在15 ℃以上时均可出现,且为负向波。体温由5 ℃上升至35 ℃时,心率由14.6次/min增加为201次/min。P-R、R-T和T-P间期的值都随之缩短。各间期值在各温度等级之间的差异都极显著(P<0.001)。在相同体温条件下,密点麻蜥的心率范围较一些作者报道的其他蜥蜴的心率都快,且差别很大。心率和体重之间有R=153 Wt[0.207]的关系(Licht,1965),密点麻蜥的体重小则心率快,但是密点麻蜥(E.Multiocellata)和荒漠沙蜥(Phrynocephalus przewalskii)的体重相似,心率却有差异,除种属差异外,也与生态环境的差异有关。 QRS/RR和RT/RR的值与体温呈正相关,而TP/RR和PR/RR的值与体温呈负相关。说明在体温升高时心动周期中各间期缩短的程度不同,即心脏的静息期(TP)和房室传导时间(PR)相对缩短,而心室开始去极化至复极化结束的时间(QRS和RT)相对延长。这一特征说明了密点麻蜥的心率随体温升高而加快的原因是静息期缩短和房室传导速度加快,而静息期缩短是最重要的因素。
Li, R.D. & Liu, N.F. (1992) -
The paper deals with the relationship between the body temperatures of Phrynocephalus przewalskii (Sthauch) and Eremias multiocellata (Guenther) and the environmental temperatures,their selections of environmental temperatures and their resistance against low and high temperatures.The body temperatures of przewalskii and Multiocellata were negatively interrelated to environmental temperatures (P<0.001).Under the same temperatures.The body temperatures of przewalskii were 3 ℃ higher than that of multiocellata.The environmental temperatures selected by the former were 38-40 ℃,whereas the latter required only 35-37 ℃.The hot and dead temperatures of przewalskii were higher than those of multiocellata.The threshhold of the hot and dead temperatures in przewalskii varied from 44 ℃ to 48 ℃ and its highest dead temperature (TL[50]) was up to 48℃,and that in multiocellata was 42-46 ℃ and its highest hot temperature (TL[50]) was 46 ℃.The ability that two species can resist against low temperatures was equal.The cold and dead temperatures varied from 0 ℃ to -3 ℃.The cold and dead temperatures (TL[50]) of przewalskii were -2.3 ℃,but those of multiocellata were -2.5 ℃.These significant differences between the two species are concerned with the characteristics of each,habitats and sizes of the bodies.
李仁德,刘nai发 (1992) -
摘要 荒漠沙蜥和密点麻蜥的体温都随环境温度的变化而变化,相关非常显著(P<0.001)。在相同环境温度条件下,荒漠沙蜥的体温约高于密点麻蜥3 ℃。荒漠沙蜥集中选择38-40 ℃的环境,密点麻蜥选择35-37 ℃的环境。荒漠沙蜥的热僵死阈值为44-48 ℃,致死温度(TL[50])为48 ℃,密点麻蜥的热僵死阈值为42-46 ℃,致死温度(TL[50])为46 ℃。两种蜥蜴对低温的耐受性基本相似,冷僵温度为0- -3 ℃,致死低温(TL[50]):荒漠沙蜥为-2.3 ℃,密点麻蜥为-2.5 ℃。两种蜥蜴的这些差异与种的特征、栖息环境及体形的大小有关。
Li, S.-L. & Gao, X. & Wang, M. & Zhao, W.-G. & Chen, H. (2008) -
Li, S.-R. & Wang, Y. & Ma, L. & Zeng, Z.-G. & Bi, J.-H. & Du, W.-G. (2017) -
How ectotherms exploit thermal resources has important implications for their habitat utilization and thermal vulnerability to climate warming. To address this issue, we investigated thermal relations of three sympatric lizard species (Eremias argus, Eremias multiocellata, and Phrynocephalus przewalskii) in the desert steppe of Inner Mongolia, China. We determined the thermoregulatory behavior, body temperature (Tb), operative temperature (Te), selected body temperature (Tsel), and critical thermal maximum (CTmax) of adult lizards. Based on these physiological parameters, we quantified the accuracy and effectiveness of thermoregulation as well as thermal-safety margin for these species. The three species were accurate and effective thermoregulators. The P. przewalskii preferred open habitats, and had a higher Tb than the two Eremias lizards, which preferred shade habitats and shuttled more frequently between the shade and sun. This indicated that the three sympatric lizards have different thermoregulatory behavior and thermal physiology, which might facilitate their coexistence in the desert steppe ecosystem. In addition, the P. przewalskii had higher Tsel and CTmax, and a wider thermal-safety margin than the two Eremias lizards, suggesting that the two Eremias lizards would be more vulnerable to climate warming than P. przewalskii.
Li, T. & Zhao, B. & Zhou, Y.K. & Hu, R. & Du, W.G. (2014) -
Recent studies have demonstrated that thermoregulatory behavior occurs not only in posthatching turtles but also in turtles prior to hatching. Does thermoregulatory behavior also occur in the embryos of other reptile and bird species? Our experiments show that such behavior is widespread but not universal in reptile and bird embryos. We recorded repositioning within the egg, in response to thermal gradients, in the embryos of three species of snakes (Xenochrophis piscator, Elaphe bimaculata, and Zaocys dhumnades), two turtles (Chelydra serpentina and Ocadia sinensis), one crocodile (Alligator sinensis), and four birds (Coturnix coturnix, Gallus gallus domesticus, Columba livia domestica, and Anas platyrhynchos domestica). However, we detected no significant thermoregulation by the embryos of two lizard species (Takydromus septentrionalis and Phrynocephalus frontalis). Overall, embryonic thermoregulatory behavior is widespread in reptile as well as bird species but may be unimportant in the small eggs laid by most lizards.
Li, W. & Du, J. & Yang, L. & Liang, Q. & Yang, M. & Zhou, X. & Du, W. (2023) -
Background Although the extreme environmental adaptation of organisms is a hot topic in evolutionary biology, genetic adaptation to high-altitude environment remains poorly characterized in ectothermic animals. Squamates are among the most diverse terrestrial vertebrates, with tremendous ecological plasticity and karyotype diversity, and are a unique model system to investigate the genetic footprints of adaptation. Results We report the first chromosome-level assembly of the Mongolian racerunner (Eremias argus) and our comparative genomics analyses found that multiple chromosome fissions/fusions events are unique to lizards. We further sequenced the genomes of 61 Mongolian racerunner individuals that were collected from altitudes ranging from ~ 80 to ~ 2600 m above sea level (m.a.s.l.). Population genomic analyses revealed many novel genomic regions under strong selective sweeps in populations endemic to high altitudes. Genes embedded in those genomic regions are mainly associated with energy metabolism and DNA damage repair pathways. Moreover, we identified and validated two substitutions of PHF14 that may enhance the lizards’ tolerance to hypoxia at high altitudes. Conclusions Our study reveals the molecular mechanism of high-altitude adaptation in ectothermic animal using lizard as a research subject and provides a high-quality lizard genomic resource for future research.
Li, X. & Wang, C. & Tang, G. & Li, S.-R. & Ma, L. & Sun, B. & Zhang, Y.-P. (2019) -
Light is essential for embryonic development in many oviparous animals including fish, amphibians, and birds. However, light may be harmful for reptile embryos developing underground where they are in complete darkness and beneath thin eggshells. Nonetheless, how embryonic light conditions affect reptile development and offspring remains largely unknown. Here we incubated eggs in dark and light conditions to determine the effects of light exposure on embryonic development and offspring visual ability, spatial cognitive ability and growth in a lacertid lizard, Eremias argus. Our experiments demonstrated that light stimulation shortened incubation duration of eggs, but did not affect hatching success, offspring size, visual ability or survival. More interestingly, light exposure during incubation decreased spatial cognitive ability and post-hatching growth of offspring. On the basis of negative effects on offspring growth rates, our study indicates that in squamate reptiles with thin eggshells, light exposure in early development has negative effects on offspring cognitive ability.
Li, X. & Wu, P. & Ma, L. & Huebner, C. & Sun, B. & Li, S. (2020) -
Low‐elevation species can migrate toward higher elevations to survive in a warming world. However, animals’ responses to hypoxia when migrating to high elevations have rarely been addressed. To identify the response of low‐elevation lizards to high‐elevation hypoxia, we collected field body temperatures (Tfb) and operative temperatures (Te) of lizards (Eremias argus) from a low‐elevation population (1036 m) and a high‐elevation population (2036 m), and then determined adult thermal physiology, embryonic development, and hatchling phenotypes after acclimating low‐elevation lizards and incubating their eggs in conditions mimicking the low‐elevation oxygen condition (18.5% O2) and high‐elevation oxygen (hypoxic) condition (16.5% O2). Our study revealed that Tfb and Te were higher for the low‐elevation population compared to the high‐elevation population. We also found adults from low elevation acclimated to hypoxia preferred lower body temperatures, but did not show changes in locomotor performance or growth. In addition, hypoxia did not affect embryonic development (hatching time and success) or hatchling phenotypes (body size and locomotor performance). These results suggest that adult lizards from low elevations can respond to hypoxia‐induced stress when migrating to high elevations by behaviorally thermoregulating to lower body temperatures in order to sustain normal functions. Similarly, low‐elevation embryos can develop normally (with unchanged hatching success and offspring phenotypes) under the high‐elevation hypoxic condition. This study highlights that low‐elevation populations of a species that inhabits a range of elevations can buffer the impact of high‐elevation hypoxic conditions to some degree and thus attain similar fitness to the source population.
Liang, T. & Ran, J.-M. & Liang, Q.-R. & Leng, L. & Du, J.-H. & Wang, J. & Shi, L. (2024) -
Caudal autotomy is a phenomenon observed in many reptile taxa, and tail loss is a pivotal functional trait for reptiles, with potentially negative implications for organism fitness due to its influence on locomotion. Some lizard species can regenerate a lost tail, which sometimes can lead to the development of more than one tail (i.e., abnormal tail regeneration) in the process. However, little is currently known about the impact of abnormal tail regeneration on locomotor performance. In this study, we document abnormal tail regeneration in Eremias yarkandensis, a reptile species native to northwestern China. Additionally, we investigated the sprint speed and endurance performance of these lizards. This study provides the first report on abnormal tail regeneration and its locomotor performance on a Chinese reptile. We suggest that the abnormal regeneration of tails may contribute to the accumulation of food reserves in the species. In light of our findings, we propose that herpetologists continue to share their sporadic observations and assess the locomotor performance of species experiencing abnormal tail regeneration, further expanding our understanding of this intriguing phenomenon.
Liang, X. & Ji, X. (2021) -
The relationship between form, function and ecology is very important for us to understand the process of phenotypic evolution and ecological evolution in biological organisms. Trait evolution between species and populations is the result of multiple factors. The Bite force of a vertebrate plays an important role in its life, mainly including eating habits, mate competition, territorial possession, defense against invaders and so on. In this study, the northern grass lizard (Takydromus septentrionalis) was used as a subject to explore the influence of living environmental factors on lizard morphology and bite force. After measuring the morphological traits of five populations, it was made a comparative analysis, on the differences in morphology and bite force between populations by studying the morphology, bite force and sexual dimorphism between different populations. The results showed that with the morphological size and bite force of the lizard increase as the average annual temperature of the land population decreases, however, the island population did not show this phenomenon. A significant positive correlation between the head size and the bite force of the lizard was found,and the obvious sexual dimorphism of head size,mouth opening and bite force of the lizard was also detected.
Liberman, S.S. & Pokrovskaja, N.V. (1943) -
Licht, P. & Hoyen, H. (1968) -
The somatotropic effects of ovine prolactin and bovine growth hormone (GH) were compared in juveniles of the lizard Lacerta sicula sicula. Both hormones stim- ulated a marked increase (up to 300%) in food consumption. This effect was asso- ciated with a pronounced increase in weight gain which involved some fattening and considerable linear growth: the relative amount of lean growth and fattening were the same with both hormones. GH was slightly more potent on a weight basis, but both were highly effective at a dose of 10 ,&day and some response was evident between 1 and 50 &g/day. Total lipid storage was the same under both hormone treatments but lipid dis- tributions in the body differed, especially with regard to the liver. GH promoted splanchnomegaly and lipid storage in the liver whereas prolactin decreased hepatic growth and lipid content. When the two hormones were given together, there was no synergism or additive effect with respect to total growth and the effects of pro- la&in on the liver were antagonized by the GH.
Licht, P. & Hoyer, H.E. & Oordt, P.G.W.J. van (1969) -
Annual testicular cycles in the lizards Lacerta sicula and L. muralis appear to be regulated by the interaction between seasonal changes in body temperature and an endogenous rhythmicity in thermal responsiveness. Photoperiodism does not appear to be an important factor; i.e. testicular activity does not appear to be regulated by daylength. Following testicular regression in July, the lizards are refractory to sexual stimulation by high temperatures (i.e. normal preferred levels) for about five months. High temperatures accelerate gonadal regression and prevent recrudescence during late summer. Reduced temperatures stimulate testicular enlargement and spermatid formation during the autumn; this recrudescence can be blocked by treatment with testosterone. Very low temperatures suppress gonadal activity during mid-winter. Maintenance of lizards at constant high temperatures (33°C) starting in July suppresses testicular recrudescence until December. Also, testicular collapse occurs in lizards transferred to high temperatures after recrudescence has started. The gonads are stimulated by exogenous gonadotropins at 33°C during the fall indicating that high temperatures reduce circulating levels of gonadotropins. The refractoriness to high temperatures is “spontaneously” terminated during midwinter (December) under a wide range of photo-thermal conditions. Low temperatures may accelerate the termination of refractoriness. Thereafter, high temperatures stimulate, and are required for the final development of the testes and accessory sexual structures. Thus, the increase in body temperature following hibernation times the onset of breeding in the spring. Temperature also has a marked influence on appetite and growth, independent of photo-period. Weight gains are greater at 33° than at 20°C. At 33° there is a tendency for abdominal fat bodies to enlarge but with little hepatic growth; whereas, the reverse occurs at 20°C.
Lichtenstein, H. (1823) -
Lichtenstein, H. & Martens, E. von (1856) -
Lieckweg, T. & Lieckweg, A. (2021) -
Liedmeier, N. (2006) -
Lieftinck, E. (1974) -
In June 1973 the Greek islands Amorgos, Thira and Milos were visited. On Amorgos numerous Lacerta erhardii amorgensis and Gymnodactylus kotschi kotschi were seen. Two Eryx jaculus turcicus were met, they are slow animals, one was picked up and stayed very quite. On Thira a lizard, probably Lacerta erhardii naxensis, was photographed. On Milos Vipera lebetina schweizeri and telescopus fallax fallax were seen, caught by a snakedealer.
Lierath, W. (1954) -
Lierath, W. (1959) -
Liesack, H. (1984) -
Liesack, H. (1988) -
Lieury, J.-B. (1866) -
Lilge, D. (1975) -
546 lizards of different geographically isolated populations of the specus Lacerta pityusensis were studied using an systematic criteria correlative and allometric changes of body proportions, coloration and pattern. Some other criteria often used in systematic studies on southern European lizards were unsuitable, since they do not differ significantly between the populations. With the exception of the Trocados (Trocardors) lizard (L. p. grueni) all adults of the populations on the seperate offshore islands increase their body size, in particular L. p. grossae on St. Eulalia (Illa de Santa Eulalia) and L. p. maluquerorum on Bleda Nebosque Island (Na Bosc). The studies on correlative and allometric changes of body proportions showed: All criteria show a marked sexual dimorphism, the males are larger and have longer pilei and hindlimbs. The allometric changes in length of pileus / width of pileus were found to be possitive in males however negativ in females in all populations except the N-Formentera lizards. The females of the geographically isolated populations differ more between each other and in comparison with Ibiza females than do males. Lizards of the island populations have more slender pilei than Ibiza lizards. The females have longer hindlimbs but in some populations the hindlimbs of the males show a more negative allometric growth. Smaller adult males of these populations have longer while larger males have shorter hindlimbs than the Ibiza lizards. The studies of coloration and pattern showed that in particular the populations of the east coast of Ibiza differ from those given in other studies. In the population of L. p. grossae on St. Eulalia (Illa de Santa Eulalia) grey green individuals without a red belly are found, in the population of L. p. canensis on Es Cana Island (Caná) are some light green lizards. The females of L. p. redonae (Redonda de Santa Eulalia) and L. p. canensis (Caná) were described the first time. The population on east coast islands show no tendency to darker coloration. The populations longest isolated display the most brightest colours. L. p. grueni inhabits the peninsula (not island) Trocados (Trocadors). This subspecies is distributed over the extreme north of Formentera and in the south of it`s range hybridisation with the subspecies L. p. formenterae occurs. The lizards of playa La Sabina, N-Formentera and some related offshore islands are with regard to all criteria intermediate to the lizards of Ibiza and the remaining Formentera. The subspecies L. p. algae (Pouet), subformenterae (Conejo de Formentera) and sabinae (Sabina), described from that region, are considered as synoyms of L. p. pityusensis as well as L. p. formenterae. Since the lizards of the Islas de Purroige (Ses Illetes de Purroig) differ hardly from the lizards of Ibiza, this subspecies (L. p. purroigensis) is considered a synonym of L. p. pityusensis. Lacerta p. zenonis from the tiny island Escui de Esparto (Escull de S`Espartar) probably does not differ from L. p. kameriana from the island of Esparto (Espartar). In future, the ecology, structure and size of the isolated lizard populations shall be studied and compared. It is suggested that the single island represent different eco-systems. An analysis shall be done on those parameters which maintain natural selection and are thus most imortant for the evolution of the lizards. It is considered that the social behaviour is of relevance to population dispersion and density and the regulation of population size.
Lima, A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2007) -
Lima, A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2008) -
Among the Iberian members of the genus Podarcis, two species are present in the North-Western region: P. bocagei and P. carbonelli. The high morphological and ecological similarity between them as well as their well-known distribution ranges, provides a special opportunity to evaluate asymmetry patterns typically displayed by wall-lizards. Levels of asymmetry expression have been correlated with several kinds of abiotic, biotic and genetic stresses. The few asymmetry studies focusing on reptiles have found that even minor morphological asymmetries could have an impact on individuals’ survival, altering their fitness for example through reduced escaping performance. Others found that asymmetry varied across the species distribution range, increasing in the peripheral populations, while others evaluated isolation effects between insular and continental populations through fluctuating asymmetry. Therefore, asymmetry may be a useful fitness index but in order to be valuable in comparative studies, the levels of variation usually displayed by natural populations must be determined first. In our study we aim to define the asymmetry patterns present in these species through the analysis of meristic and linear biometric bilateral traits. We include characters from different structures, like the head and the limbs, to capture individual asymmetric variation. Measurement error was assessed in order to quantify the between sides variation truly due to asymmetry. After this initial stage, those traits that showed fluctuating asymmetry were analyzed separately because these can be used to evaluate the levels of developmental instability displayed by different populations. The occurrence of other types of asymmetry, particularly directional asymmetry, were also detected and evaluated. The similarity between asymmetry patterns of both species was tested as well as the occurrence of sexual dimorphism in asymmetry variation. We exemplify the application of asymmetry indices to a specific situation of sympatry, as it may pose stressful conditions to populations occupying similar habitats. The results will be presented in the ecological and evolutionary framework of these species.
Lima, A. & Larbes, S. & Pinho, C. & Carretero, M.A. & Brito, J.C. & Harris, D.J. (2008) -
Recent molecular studies indicate that Podarcis occurring in the extreme South of the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa from Morocco to Algeria and Tunisia constitute a monophyletic clade composed of several forms with unsolved status. In such studies mtDNA markers revealed high levels of differentiation between the forms ranging from the Moroccan Atlas and Rif and those found in Tunisia and Jebel Sirwah (South Morocco). However, the Algerian forms, which are geographically intermediate, have not been investigated so far. Without a systematic sampling, assessing the structure and partition of the genetic variability of African Podarcis is not possible. Recent application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) has provided models with a high degree of resolution for the entire North African region. These models have enabled the prediction of probable new locations of occurrence in unsampled regions, namely in Algeria. In fact, field work addressed to these places confirmed the previously unsuspected presence of these lizards and allowed the collection of samples. In this study we determine the levels of genetic variability between Algerian populations placing them within the framework of Podarcis phylogeny. A more extensive sampling scheme was used that includes samples collected from the new localities identified by GIS models, in a total of 13 localities from Algeria. To accomplish our objective we used mtDNA molecular markers, namely partial 12S rRNA and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4 gene sequences, combining published and new data. With this approach a better resolved phylogeny for Podarcis in North Africa is established.
Lima, A. & Pinho, C. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. (2008) -
Iberian Podarcis have been the target of intensive phylogenetic research during recent years because of the previously unexpected diversity found within. At present, the former Podarcis hispanica is recognized as a species complex parafiletic to P. bocagei, P. carbonelli and P. vaucheri with the majority of lineages being strongly supported by evidence coming from mtDNA, nuclear DNA and protein electrophoretic data. In some cases, morphological studies focusing on specific lineages have also agreed with their phenotypic distinctiveness which consequently conducted to their raise to the specific rank, such as P. carbonelli and P. vaucheri. However, some of the recent identified forms (i.e. “morphotype 1”) still contain considerable genetic diversity, while the apparent relationships of other monophyletic groups change according to the kind of data analyzed. From the recently published data, one highly divergent lineage seems to deserve a deeper look: Podarcis “morphotype 2”. This lineage is the most widespread in the Iberian Peninsula, reported from across the Central and Southwestern regions. While its distribution in Portugal is well defined, its eastern distribution is less well known. Reflecting this situation, recent studies lack representative samples from its entire distribution range. However, when mtDNA markers were preliminary analyzed, considerable variation was reported but without obvious geographic partitioning. With this study we aim to evaluate the genetic diversity within this form. We conducted a more complete sampling scheme trying to cover the entire distribution range of this specific lineage. We combine new and previously published sequence data in order to perform a more complete phylogeographic analysis of the whole lineage. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of this form is now more precisely delimited.
Lima, A. & Pinho, C. & Larbes, S. & Carretero, M.A. & Brito, J.C. & Harris, D.J. (2009) -
Recent molecular studies indicate that Podarcis wall lizards occurring in the southern region of the Iberian Peninsula and in North Africa, from south Morocco to eastern Tunisia, constitute a monophyletic group composed of several highly differentiated forms that appear to be incipient species. However, Algerian populations, which are geographically intermediate, have not been investigated so far. In this study we determine the levels of genetic variability between Algerian populations and other North African populations, using a more extensive sampling scheme covering most of the distribution range in this area. Our results show that North African Podarcis present high genetic diversity, comprising at least five highly divergent lineages. Two of these lineages were only detected in Algeria, which harbours most of the genetic diversity found within Podarcis from North Africa.
Limatola, E. & Filosa, S. (1989) -
The regulation of oocyte growth and of exogenous vitellogenesis by micropinocytosis has been studied in lizard Podarcis sicula kept at 28° during the winter stasis and stimulated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Under these experimental conditions, oocyte auxocytosis as well as vitellogenesis is stimulated, while the follicular hierarchy is preserved. At the ultrastructural level, the flow of exogenous yolk precursors toward the oocyte increases and the pathway taken by them through intercellular spaces and zona pellucida is the same as that taken by peroxidase (tracer). Yolk precursor endocytosis is found only in oocytes greater than 1500 μm in diameter and takes place through the formation of several coated pits and vesicles. It is suggested that membrane receptors necessary for micropinocytosis are available only in such oocytes. Last, a different permeability of the ovarian follicle to exogenous yolk precursors during the different stages of oocyte growth and endovarian control of vitellogenesis are suggested.
Limnios, A. & Adamopoulou, C. & Carretero, M.A. & Pafilis, P. (2021) -
Though biological invasions constitute one of the biggest threats for global biodiversity, our understanding of the mechanisms that enable invasive species to outperform native species is still limited, especially, in terms of behavior. Most available studies have examined behavioral traits which favor invasive species on the later stages of invasion, however, our knowledge on earlier stages, namely, when alien species face novel environments and must exploit new resources, remains obscure. Here, we focus on one crucial behavioral trait, finding food. The Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) has been widely introduced and established viable populations in S. Europe and N. America. We examined whether P. siculus has enhanced exploratory behavior and abilities to find food compared to two native congeneric species with which it may come in contact in the near future, an insular endemic (P. milensis) and a widely distributed lizard (P. erhardii). We performed a Y-maze experiment, in which we varied arm markings in a standard way to prevent learning. Podarcis siculus was more efficient than its congenerics in finding and consuming food. This exploitative superiority was persistent, more frequent and repetitive. Interesting behavioral differences were also detected within the native species. Some P. milensis individuals showed no interest in exploring the maze, while few P. erhardii individuals remained rather indifferent to food even after detecting it. Our results suggest that the invasive P. siculus displays behavioral traits that could provide better opportunities for survival in the new environment and thus facilitate establishment even in the presence of congenerics. This provides further support to the idea that behavior plays a crucial role in animal invasions.
Lin, C.-F. & Chen, Y.-L. & Tsai, Y.-F. (2004) -
A female grass lizard Takydromus stejnegeri van Denburgh was captured after mating in the field on 24 April 2003. It was immediately brought back to the laboratory and kept under observation. It produced four clutches of eggs from10 May to 22 June. The average time interval of the successive clutches was 14.75 days, and the average clutch size was 2.75 eggs. The production of the successive clutches without mating in captivity may be due to the sperm storage in the female reproductive tract. The fertilization ratio and hatching ratio were 100% for the first three clutches, but only 33.3% and none, respectively, for the fourth clutch. The clutch order was significantly positively correlated with egg width and also with egg weight. T. stejnegeri was an intermediate egg retainer, whose gestation (egg retention) period was at an average of 25% of the total embryonic development period.
Lin, J.-W. & Chen, Y.-R. & Li, T.-W. & Shaner, P.-j.L. & Lin, S.-M. (2020) -
Based on 20,000 records representing c. 11,000 individuals from an 8-year capture-mark-recapture (CMR) study, we tested and confirmed a new case of invariant clutch size (ICS) in a sexually dichromatic lacertid lizard, Takydromus viridipunctatus. In the grassland habitat of the early succession stage, females showed strictly low and invariant clutch size, multiple clutches in a breeding season, high reproductive potential, and annual breeding cycles that correspond to the emergence of male courtship coloration. The hatchlings mature quickly, and join the adult cohort for breeding within a few months, whereas adults show low survival rates and a short lifespan, such that most die within one year. Mortality increased in both sexes during the breeding season, especially in females, indicating an unequal cost of reproduction in survival. These life history characters may be explained by two nonexclusive hypotheses of ICS—arboreal hypothesis and predation hypothesis—within the ecological context of their habitat. Our study highlights a confirmed case of ICS, which adapts well to this r-selected grassland habitat that experiences seasonal fluctuation and frequent disturbance.
Lin, J.-W. & Chen, Y.-R. & Wang, Y.-H. & Hung, K.-C. & Lin, S.-M. (2017) -
Caudal autotomy in lizards has intrigued scientists for more than 100 years. Because of the relative lack of literature under natural conditions, the complicated association among field autotomy rate, real predation pressure, the long-term cost of tail loss, and the benefit of regeneration remains equivocal. In this study, we conducted a 7-year capture–mark–recapture (CMR) programme with a wild population of a sexually dichromatic lizard, Takydromus viridipunctatus. We used autotomy indexes and a contemporary bird census mega-dataset of four predatory birds as predictors to examine the association between tail loss and predation pressure. We further estimated the survival cost of tail loss and alleviation by regeneration under natural conditions through CMR modelling. We found that large and small avian predators affect lizard survival through the following two routes: the larger-sized cattle egret causes direct mortality while the smaller shrikes and kestrels are the major causes of autotomy. Following autotomy, the survival rate of tailless individuals over the next month was significantly lower than that of tailed individuals, especially males during the breeding season, which showed a decline of greater than 30%. This sex-related difference further demonstrated the importance of reproductive costs for males in this sexually dichromatic species. However, the risk of mortality returned to baseline after the tails were fully grown. This study indicates the benefit of tail regeneration under natural conditions, which increases our understanding of the cost–benefit dynamics of caudal autotomy and further explains the maintenance of this trait as an evolutionarily beneficial adaption to long-term predator–prey interactions.
Lin, J.-Y. & Cheng, H.-Y. (1980) -
Notes on the corrected indentification and redescription of a ground lizard, Platyplacopus kuehnei, with a revised key of the family Lacertidae from Taiwan. Bull. In st. Zool. Academia Sinica 19(2): 63-65. The measurements and description of a new specimen of the Formosan ground lizard, Platyplacopus kuehnei (Van Denburgh) collected from Taipei in 1977, were given. Platyplacopus kuehnei which has been mistakenly named Takydromus kuehnei since 1909 should be rectified. A revised key is given for the family Lacertidae in Taiwan.
Lin, J.Y. & Cheng, H.Y. (1981) -
Lin, S.-M. & Wang, C.J. & Hsu, Y.C. & Lue, K.Y. & Li, S.H. (2006) -
Twelve tetra-repeated microsatellite loci were developed for the island-endemic grass lizard Takydromus formosanus (Squamata: Lacertidae). We characterized these loci by genotyping 51 individuals sampled from six localities. The number of alleles per locus ranged between 12 and 23, whereas the observed heterozygosity ranged between 0.686 and 0.941. None of these loci showed gametic disequilibrium or sex linkage. With such high polymorphism, we believe that these loci should be suitable for fine-scaled analysis of population structure, hybridizations or individual identification of grass lizards.
Lin, S.M. (2003) -
Lin, S.M. & Chen, C.A. & Lue, K.Y. (2002) -
Takydromus Daudin is a group of Lacertidae lizards with slender bodies and long tails. Half of the Takydromus spp. are endemic to islands of eastern Asia aligned along the Pacific margin of the East Asian continent. This feature offers a good opportunity to study the effects of glaciations and land connections on the speciation of East Asian fauna. We reconstructed the molecular phylogeny of Takydromus species via the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene. Phylogenetic analyses using maximum-parsimony, neighborjoining, and maximum-likelihood options do not support a two-subgenera scheme of Takydromus and Platyplacopus proposed earlier. In contrast, the phylogeny of Takydromus species on islands fits the sequential separation of island groups influenced by changes in sea level. The hypothesis in our prediction supports the process of vicariant speciation and multicolonization of grass lizards on eastern Asian islands. At least two obvious colonization events were followed by vicariance events. Because the molecular clock of the 12 rRNA gene was not rejected in our model test, it is possible to estimate times of speciation events. As the most isolated and basal species compared to other temperate and subtropical species of Takydromus, the separation period of T. smaragdinus in the central Ryukyus is the crucial point in estimating the evolutionary rate. Quaternary-origin or Tertiary-origin models are proposed and discussed
Lin, Z. & Ji, X. (1998) -
Pliable-shelled eggs of Takydromus septentrionalis increased in wet mass over the incubation due to absorbing water from the substrate.The levels of substrate moisture significantly influenced final masses of the eggs incubated at 26 and 28℃.Eggs gained more mass in wetter substrates than in drier substrates.In contrast to those at 26 and 28℃,final masses of the eggs incubated at 24℃ were independent of the level of substrate moisture.Due to the positive relationship between final and initial egg masses seen in all cases,variations in final egg mass could be partly explained by the variation in initial egg mass.Within the range from 24 to 32℃,incubation temperature significantly influenced duration of incubation,hatching success,and size,mass,and sprint speed of hatchlings,with the eggs incubated at 24 and 26℃ exhibiting higher hatching successes and producing larger,heavier,and faster-running hatchlings.Within the range from -220 to 0 kPa,incubation hydric environments had no impacts on duration of incubation,hatching success,and size,mass,and sprint speed of hatchlings.Incubation thermal and hydric environments did not determine sex in T.septentrionalis.
林植华,计翔 (1998) -
摘要 北草蜥(Takydromus septentrionali)卵从孵化基质吸收水分导致质量增加。24℃湿度对孵化卵的终末质量无显著影响;26℃和28℃时,高湿度孵化的卵终末质量较大。孵化卵终末重与初始重呈正相关,终末卵重的差异部分地由初始卵重决定。温度对孵化期、孵化成功率及孵出幼体的大小、质量和疾跑速有显著影响:孵化期随孵化温度升高而缩短24℃和26℃的孵化成功率显著高于更高温度的孵化成功率,较低温度孵出的幼体较大、较重。本研究设置的湿度对孵化期、孵化成功率及孵出幼体的大小、质量和疾跑速无显著影响。孵化温湿度与孵出幼体的性别无关。
Lin, Z. & Yu, K. & Shen, L. & Zhang, Y. & Liu, Y. & Hou, M. & Peng, Z. & Tang, X. & Vhen, Q. (2021) -
As the only viviparous reptile in China that has both temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) and genetic-dependent sex determination (GSD) mechanisms, Eremias multiocellata is considered as an ideal species for studying sex determination mechanism in viviparous lizards. However, studies on embryonic stage of viviparous lizards and morphological characteristics of each stage were limited. In the present study, the embryonic development process of E. multiocellata is divided into 15 stages (Stage 28-42) according to the morphology of embryos. Embryo`s sizes are measured and continuous dynamic variation of some key features, including limbs, genitals, eyes, pigments, and brain scales are color imaged by a stereoscopic microscope. Furthermore, based on these morphological characteristics, we compare the similarities and differences in the embryonic development of E. multiocellata with other squamates species. Our results not only identified the staging table of E. multiocellata with continuous changes of external morphological characteristics but also developed a staging scheme for an important model species that provide a necessary foundation for study of sex determination in viviparous lizard.
Lin, Z.H. & Ji, X. (2005) -
Many species of lizards use caudal autotomy as a defense strategy to avoid predation, but tail loss entails costs. These topics were studied experimentally in the northern grass lizard, Takydromus septentrionalis. We measured lipids in the three-tail segments removed from each of the 20 experimental lizards (adult females) initially having intact tails to evaluate the effect of tail loss on energy stores; we obtained data on locomotor performance (sprint speed, the maximal length traveled without stopping and the number of stops in the racetrack) for these lizards before and after the tail-removing treatments to evaluate the effect of tail loss on locomotor performance. An independent sample of 20 adult females that retained intact tails was measured for locomotor performance to serve as controls for successive measurements taken for the experimental lizards. The lipids stored in the removed tail was positively correlated with tailbase width when holding the tail length constant, indicating that thicker tails contained more lipids than did thinner tails of the same overall length. Most of the lipids stored in the tail were concentrated in the proximal portion of the tail. Locomotor performance was almost unaffected by tail loss until at least more than 71% of the tail (in length) was lost. Our data show that partial tail loss due to predatory encounters or other factors may not severely affect energy stores and locomotor performance in T. septentrionalis.
Linderhaus, T. & Malten, A. (2006) -
In Fortsetzung der Stichprobenkartierung 2005 zur Verbreitung von Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) und Schlingnatter (Coronella austriaca) in Hessen (MALTEN & LINDERHAUS 2005) wurde im Jahr 2006 auf 314 zufällig ausgewählten 1 km2 großen Probeflächen kartiert. In der Zeit vom 8. Juni bis zum 15. Oktober wurden dazu innerhalb der Probeflächen frei wählbare Transekte von 1 km Länge, bzw. 1 h Begehungsdauer nach Vorkommen dieser Reptilien abgesucht. Die Probeflächen befanden sich in den hessischen Anteilen der Naturräume D18 Thüringer Becken mit Randplatten, D36 Weser- und Weser-Leine-Bergland (Niedersächsisches Bergland), D38 Bergisches Land, Sauerland, D39 Westerwald, D40 Lahntal und Limburger Hessen, D41 Taunus, D55 Odenwald, Spessart und Südrhön. Die zufällige Auswahl der Probeflächen erfolgte für jedes Messtischblatt separat, um eine homogenere Verteilung über Hessen zu erreichen. Die Bewertung der angetroffenen Populationen, Habitate und die Beeinträchtigungen und Gefährdungen wurden anhand eines für diese Erfassung modifizierten Bewertungsrahmens durchgeführt. Die Begehungen erfolgten durch speziell geschulte Mitarbeiter des Landesbetriebes Hessen-Forst, FIV, Naturschutzdaten, der Arbeitsgemeinschaft Amphibien- und Reptilienschutz Hessen (AGAR) sowie der Arbeitsgruppe Biotopkartierung am Forschungsinstitut Senckenberg. Insgesamt wurden 912 Reptilien auf 217 Probeflächen nachgewiesen. Neben 279 Zauneidechsen und 9 Schlingnattern wurden dabei 500 Waldeidechsen (Zootoca vivipara), 93 Blindschleichen (Anguis fragilis), 19 Ringelnattern (Natrix natrix) sowie 12 nicht bestimmte Eidechsen gezählt. Damit war die Waldeidechse insgesamt die am häufigsten gefundene Art der Untersuchung.
Lindhe, B. (2010) -
Lindner, L. (2010) -
Lindner, L. (2016) -
Lindner, L. (2017) -
Während einer Reise im Juni 2016 nach Fuerteventura und eines Ausflugs auf die Insel Lobos wurde die Herpetofauna und Flora beobachtet und fotografiert. Es wurden die hier lebende Unterart der Atlantischen Eidechse, Gallotia atlantica mahoratae sowie die von teneriffa nach Esquinzo verschleppte Gallotia galloti eisentrauti gefunden. Der Purpurarienskink, Chalcides simonyi und die ebenfalls nach Fuerteventura verschleppte Gran-Canatria-Eidechse, Gallotia stehlini wurden leider nicht gefunden.
Lindner, T. & Schmid, P.L. & Fahrbach, M. & Bohle, D. & Simon, A. & Stephan, F. & Griesbaum, F. (2025) -
Lindsay, W.R. & Bererhi, B. & Ljungström, G. & Wapstra, E. & Olsson, M. (2023) -
Sexual selection on fitness-determining traits should theoretically erode genetic variance and lead to low heritability. However, many sexually selected traits maintain significant phenotypic and additive genetic variance, with explanations for this “lek paradox”including genic capture due to condition-dependence, and breaks on directional selection due to environmental sources of variance including maternal effects. Here we investigate genetic and environmental sources of variance in the intrasexually selected green badge of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis). The badge functions as a cue to male fighting ability in this species, and male–male interactions determine mate acquisition. Using animal models on a pedigree including three generations of males measured over an extensive 9-year field study, we partition phenotypic variance in both badge size and body condition into additive genetic, maternal, and permanent environmental effects experienced by an individual over its lifespan. Heritability of badge size was 0.33 with a significant estimate of underlying additive genetic variance. Body condition was strongly environmentally determined in this species and did not show either significant additive genetic variance or heritability. Neither badge size nor body condition was responsive to maternal effects. We propose that the lack of additive genetic variance and heritability of body condition makes it unlikely that genic capture mechanisms maintain additive genetic variance for badge size. That said, genic capture was originally proposed for male traits under female choice, not agonistic selection. If developmental pathways generating variance in body condition, and/or the covarying secondary sex trait, differ between inter- and intrasexual selection, or the rate at which their additive genetic variance or covariance is depleted, future work may show whether genic capture is largely restricted to intersexual selection processes.
Lindsay, W.R. & Madsen, T. & Wapstra, E. & Lillie, M. & Loeb, L. & Ujvari, B. & Olsson, M. (2020) -
Loss of genetic variation is an increasing problem in many natural populations as a result of population fragmentation, inbreeding, and genetic drift, which may lead to inbreeding depression and subsequent “extinction vortices”. In such cases, outbreeding offers a potential population saviour from extinction. Here we compare offspring viability between an experimentally founded outbred island population of sand lizards Lacerta agilis, and an inbred mainland source population on the Swedish West coast. We have studied the mainland population for over a decade during which >4000 offspring from >500 parents were monitored. We conducted an outbreeding experiment in which lizards from the mainland population with relatively low genetic variation were crossbred with lizards from distant populations that lack gene flow. The resulting 454 offspring were introduced to an otherwise uninhabited island with ideal sand lizard habitat. A survey of the island two decades later showed that offspring produced by females from the experimentally founded population had 13% higher hatching success (99.3% versus 86.4%) and elimination of the malformations occurring in 21% of clutches in the mainland source population. These results co-occur with higher genetic diversity. We conclude that outbreeding improved offspring viability in our island population ca 5–6 generations after the founding event, that is, with sustained viability effects at a time when heterotic effects are expected to have subsided.
Lindsay, W.R. & Wapstra, E. & Silverin, B. & Olsson, M. (2016) -
The mechanisms underlying honest signal expression remain elusive and may involve the integration of social and physiological costs. Corticosterone is a socially modulated metabolic hormone that mediates energy investment and behavior and may therefore function to deter dishonest signal expression. We examined the relationship between corticosterone and green badge coloration in male sand lizards (Lacerta agilis), hypothesizing that physiological and behavioral costs resulting from elevated baseline glucocorticoids function in maintenance of honest signal expression. We found that large-badged males had higher corticosterone titer, with this relationship apparent at the end of the season and absent early in the season. Large-badged males also suffered higher ectoparasite load (number of tick nymphs), despite being in better condition than small-badged males. Ectoparasite load was positively related to corticosterone titer early in the season at the time of badge formation. High-condition individuals had lower corticosterone and lower numbers of ectoparasites than low-condition individuals, suggestive of conditional variation in ability to withstand costs of corticosterone. We found an opposing negative relationship between corticosterone titer and endoparasite load. Corticosterone titer was also negatively associated with male mobility, a fitness-determining behavior in this species. Because badge size is involved in mediating agonistic social interactions in this species, our results suggest that badge-dependent variation in corticosterone is likely reflective of variation in social conditions experienced over the course of the season. Our results implicate corticosterone in maintenance of signal honesty, both early in the season through enforcement of physiological costs (ectoparasite load) and during the season through behavioral costs (male mobility). We propose that socially modulated variation in corticosterone critically functions in mediation of signal honesty without requiring a direct role for corticosterone in trait expression.
Lindtke, D. (2007) -
Lindtke, D. (2008) -
Lindtke, D. & Mayer, W. & Böhme, W. (2010) -
The European common lizard, Zootoca vivipara, is one of the very few reptile species with two reproductive modes, viz. viviparity and oviparity. Oviparity in this otherwise viviparous form has been known since 1927 for the allopatric Z. v. louislantzi. Only with the discovery of a second oviparous form, Z. v. carniolica, a parapatric occurrence of oviparous and viviparous populations became conceivable. In this study, we (1) detect a contact zone where both forms meet, (2) find evidence for natural hybridization between both reproductive strains, and (3) compare the reproductive strategies of egg-layers and live-bearers independent from environmental interference. Thirty-seven gravid females were captured in a supposed contact zone in Carinthia, Austria, and maintained in the laboratory until oviposition or parturition. Clutch size, embryonic mortality and birth weight of the neonates were compared among the reproductively differentiated samples. Hybrids were identified by intermediate reproductive characteristics. Our results provide the first proof of a contact zone between live-bearing and egg-laying Z. vivipara, and of natural hybridization among them. The study further provided evidence that hybrid females of the two strains are at least partially fertile, and that oviparous and viviparous Z. vivipara show clear differences in their reproductive strategies.
Linnaeus, C. (1758) -
Liquori, G.E. & Ferri, D. & Scillitani, G. (2000) -
The results of an ultrastructural investigation of the gastric glands of the ruin lizard are reported. In this reptile the stomach can be divided into a larger fundus and a smaller pars pilorica. Fundic glands are characterized by three main kinds of cells: mucous, endocrine, and oxynticopeptic; the latter were not observed in the pyloric glands. The morphological features of the oxynticopeptic cells change from the proximal to the distal region of the fundic mucosa. In the proximal region, numerous electron-dense secretory granules, a well-developed granular endoplasmic reticulum, an evident Golgi complex, and a reduced system of smooth-surfaced vesicles and tubules in the apical cytoplasm characterize these cells. In the distal fundic region, oxynticopeptic cells possessed numerous mitochondria and a well-developed smooth-surfaced endoplasmic reticulum, but secretory granules were rare. These data suggest the existence of a gradient in the production of proteolytic enzymes, and perhaps also of hydrochloric acid, along the oral-aboral axis of the stomach. The results are discussed with regard to the evolution of the gastric glands and of the digestive mechanism in vertebrates.
Liquori, G.E. & Ferri, D. & Labate, M. (1984) -
Lisachov, A. & Andreyushkova, D. & Davletshina, G. & Prokopov, D. & Romanenko, S. & Galkina, S, & Saifitdinova, A. & Simonov, E. & Borodin, P. & Trifonov, V. (2021) -
HeteromorphicW and Y sex chromosomes often experience gene loss and heterochromatinization, which is frequently viewed as their “degeneration”. However, the evolutionary trajectories of the heterochromosomes are in fact more complex since they may not only lose but also acquire new sequences. Previously, we found that the heterochromatic W chromosome of a lizard Eremias velox (Lacertidae) is decondensed and thus transcriptionally active during the lampbrush stage. To determine possible sources of this transcription, we sequenced DNA from a microdissected W chromosome sample and a total female DNA sample and analyzed the results of reference-based and de novo assembly. We found a new repetitive sequence, consisting of fragments of an autosomal protein-coding gene ATF7IP2, several SINE elements, and sequences of unknown origin. This repetitive element is distributed across the whole length of the W chromosome, except the centromeric region. Since it retained only 3 out of 10 original ATF7IP2 exons, it remains unclear whether it is able to produce a protein product. Subsequent studies are required to test the presence of this element in other species of Lacertidae and possible functionality. Our results provide further evidence for the view of W and Y chromosomes as not just “degraded” copies of Z and X chromosomes but independent genomic segments in which novel genetic elements may arise.
Lisachov, A.P. & Borodin, P.M. (2016) -
Most true lizards (Lacertidae) share a conservative karyotype, consisting of 18 pairs of macrochromosomes and one microchromosome pair. Homeologues of the microchromosome are present in other squamates and even in chickens. No structural autosomal microchromosome polymorphisms have been described previously in lizards. We found homozygous and heterozygous carriers of a microchromosome variant in a Siberian population of the sand lizard, Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758. The variant microchromosome was almost twice as long as the standard one. In heterozygotes at pachytene, the microchromosomes firstly pair in proximal regions and the central part of the longer axial element undergoes foldback synapsis, then its distal region pairs with the distal region of the standard partner. At metaphase-I, the heteromorphic microchromosome bivalents have a proximal chiasma. The content of the additional segment was Ag-NOR, C-like DAPI, CMA3 negative. FISH with telomere PNA probe did not detect interstitial (TTAGGG)n sequences in the heteromorphic and any other bivalents. Both homo- and heterozygous carriers were phenotypically normal. The presence of homozygotes shows that heterozygotes are fertile. Reduction in the number of microchromosomes is a clear trend in squamate evolution, as a result of microchromosomes fusing together or with macrochromosomes. Our findings indicate that gaining additional DNA may lead to a transformation of microchromosomes into small macrochromosomes without fusion.
Lisachov, A.P. & Galkina, S.A. & Saifitdinova, A.F. & Romanenko, S.A. & Andreyuhkova, D.A. & Trifonov, V.A. & Borodin, P.M. (2019) -
Reptiles are good objects for studying the evolution of sex determination, since they have different sex determination systems in different lineages. Lacertid lizards have been long-known for possessing ZZ/ ZW type sex chromosomes. However, due to morphological uniformity of lacertid chromosomes, the Z chromosome has been only putatively cytologically identified. We used lampbrush chromosome (LBC) analysis and FISH with a W-specific probe in Eremias velox (Pallas, 1771) to unequivocally identify the ZW bivalent and investigate its meiotic behavior. The heterochromatic W chromosome is decondensed at the lampbrush stage, indicating active transcription, contrast with the highly condensed condition of the lampbrush W chromosomes in birds. We identified the Z chromosome by its chiasmatic association with the W chromosome as chromosome XIII of the 19 chromosomes in the LBC karyotype. Our findings agree with previous genetic and genomic studies, which suggested that the lacertid Z chromosome should be one of the smaller macrochromosomes.
Lishchuk, A.V. & Doronin, I.V. & Kukushkin, O.V. (2024) -
Anatomical-morphological features of the postcranial skeleton of nine taxa of the rock lizards of the genus Darevskia Arribas, 1999 belonging to the Darevskia (caucasica) and Darevskia (saxicola) complexes were studied for the first time on representative samples. Specimens with the rib formula 3+1 were found in both complexes (previously, only two variants were known for the genus Darevskia 3+2 and 3+3). Differences between supraspe- cific groups and their members were described with the use of type specimens or topotypes of each taxon. The studied complexes are differentiated by the range of variability of presacral vertebrae (in the D. (caucasica) their minimum number is 26, in the D. (saxicola) – 27), the number of the posterior presacral vertebrae with ribs (the average value of this trait in the D. (caucasica) is less than 6, in D. (saxicola) – more than 6). B-type of the tail vertebrae in 5 times more common in the D. (saxicola) than in the D. (caucasica). In turn, the latter group is cha- racterized by a larger share of individuals with ossified ribs at the third cervical vertebra and a greater variability of the sternal-xiphisternal costal (rib) formula. Skeletal morphology of D. alpina indicates its greater similarity with representatives of the D. (caucasica) complex. A certain originality of D. c. vedenica was recorded. The study of D. saxicola specimens from the zone of sympatry with D. c. caucasica (Chegem Gorge) did not reveal their simi- larity with the latter, except for the presence of two variants of the sternal-xiphisternal formula. Cryptic forms within D. lindholmi differ at least in two traits: the minimum number of posterior presacral vertebrae with short ribs and the presence of individuals with caudal vertebrae of B-type.
А.В. Лищу1, И.В. Доронин & О.В. Кукушкин (2024) -
Впервые на репрезентативных выборках изучены анатомо-морфологические особенности посткра- ниального скелета девяти таксонов скальных ящериц рода Darevskia Arribas, 1999, принадлежащих к комплексам Darevskia (caucasica) и Darevskia (saxicola). В обоих комплексах найдены особи с ре- берной формулой 3+1 (ранее для рода Darevskia были известны только два варианта – 3+2 и 3+3). Описаны различия между надвидовыми комплексами и входящими в них таксонами с использова- нием типовых экземпляров или топотипов. Изученные комплексы дифференцируются по размаху изменчивости количества пресакральных позвоноков (у D. (caucasica) их минимальное число – 26, у D. (saxicola) – 27), количеству последних пресакральных позвонков с ребрами (среднее значение этого признака у D. (caucasica) меньше 6, у D. (saxicola) – больше 6). У D. (saxicola) B-тип хвостовых позвонков встречается в 5 раз чаще, чем у D. (caucasica). В свою очередь последняя группа харак- теризуется заметно большей долей особей с окостеневшими ребрами при третьем шейном позвон- ке и большей вариабельностью реберной формулы. Данные по морфологии скелета D. alpina свиде- тельствуют о ее большем сходстве с представителями комплекса D. (caucasica). Установлено опре- деленное своеобразие D. c. vedenica. Изучение особей D. saxicola из зоны симпатрии с D. c. caucasica (Чегемское ущелье) не выявило их сходства c последней, кроме наличия двух вариантов реберной формулы. Криптические формы внутри D. lindholmi различаются как минимум по двум признакам: наименьшему количеству последних пресакральных позвонков с короткими ребрами и наличию осо- бей с B-типом хвостовых позвонков.
Lishchuk, A.V. & I.V. Doronin (2025) -
Anomalies of the postcranial skeleton of nine taxa of the genus Darevskia belonging to the Darevskia (caucasica) and Darevskia (saxicola) complexes were studied for the first time on representative samples. Several groups and subgroups were identified: (1) asymmetric structure of ribs and/or transverse processes of vertebrae (anomaly of sacral vertebrae; and anomaly of the ribs in the presacral vertebra); (2) reduction of the ribs; (3) fusion of the vertebrae; and (4) anomalies of the sternum: xiphisternal rib formula. The Darevskia (caucasica) complex showed fewer anomalies than the Darevskia (saxicola) complex, in the latter we did not observe specimens with two ribs on one side of the vertebra or a reduction of the ribs on the 4th vertebra. At the same time, the highest number of anomalies was found in D. c. caucasica, the lowest in D. alpina, D. c. vedenica and D. b. myusserica. The most common anomaly is the asymmetric structure of the ribs at the level of the 21st, 22nd or 23rd presacral vertebra, the rarest are the reduction of the ribs at the level of the 4th presacral vertebra and the presence of two ribs on the left side at the level of the 16th presacral vertebra. The presence of a large number of anomalous specimens in rock lizard populations is not necessarily associated with parthenogenetic reproduction and hybridisation. Extreme environmental conditions (especially living in high mountains) are also not a necessary condition for the occurrence of anomalies in the structure of their postcranial skeleton.
Lisicic, D. & Kapelj, S. (2007) -
The Sharp-snouted Rock Lizard, Dalmatolacerta oxycephala (Dumeril & Bibron, 1839) is an endemic species of the Eastern Adriatic coast. Distribution area is very narrow, expanding through Southern Croatia, East Hercegovina and Southern Montenegro. As saxicolous species, it is distributed on almost all localities with rocks and cliffs in eumediteranean and submediterranean climate in this region, including most of large and small islands. As very narrow distributed specialist, studies involving this species are very scarce. The goal of this study was to investigate some ecological aspects of this species. Study areas were localized on Island of Vis, Croatia. During four years data on 105 specimens were collected and several ecological parameters of microhabitat were recorded during 24 hours cycles, all year round. Results on refuge selection by night, night thermoregulation and refuges and thermoregulation in winter months were obtained. Also there are some evidences of night activity of this species. Although the Sharp-snouted Rock Lizard was not main target of the research, data collected here can contribute to understand the behavioural patterns of this endemic species.
Lisicic, D. & Sabolic, I. & Mira, O. & Srut, M. & Soares, M. & Dennis, S. & Polovic, D. & Cizelj, I. & Bakaric, R. & Glogoski, M. & Stapley, J. & Herrel, A. & Stambuk, A. (2018) -
The modern synthesis defines evolution as a change in genotypic (or allelic) frequencies from one generation to the next. Evolution is usually regarded as slow process of gradual change of a species, and as such, is difficult to be tested and witnessed in shorter time span. Yet, there is growing evidence from modern scientific studies that relative quick changes in some populations emerged. Biological invasions are especially good models to study the rate and extent of evolutionary events upon encountering novel environments, especially on islands ecosystem. Here, we present one lizard species as a model for rapid evolution. Podarcis siculus is typical small lacertid lizard widely distributed through Eastern Adriatic islands. One of these populations has been subjected to experimental introductions of known date and location that have given rise to a spectacular phenotypic divergence in morphology and ecology in a relatively short time span of 35 years. The evolutionary rates observed between divergent P. siculus populations are among the highest ever recorded in natural populations, making this system as excellent model for studying rapid evolution. The main issue in such systems is to discriminate between evolution and phenotypic plasticity. There is a ongoing research project led by assist. prof. Anamaria Štambuk from Faculty of Science of University of Zagreb with aim to do so. The project combines common garden crossing experiments and population genomic to test weather observed the rapid phenotypic divergence has a genetic background indicating rapid evolution or it is result on inherited phenotypic plasticity.
Lisiecki, C.L. (2019) -
Given agriculture’s outsized proportion of global land use, food production systems must be examined for their role in conservation during this era of anthropogenic global change. Central to this objective is investigating opportunities where goals of food security and biodiversity preservation are complimentary rather than incongruent. Biological control of herbivorous pests by natural enemies is one such area of focus, where accruing evidence suggests landscape complexity fosters functional diversity of predators who offer free pest control services. Despite being widespread generalist predators, reptiles have infrequently been considered for their role in suppressing invertebrate populations. In this study, we investigated an insular population of the common Mediterranean lacertid, Podarcis erhardii (Aegean wall lizard), for its impact on invertebrate communities and herbivory damage through field enclosure experiments. We further studied P. erhardii’s functional response to known agricultural pests in a laboratory setting. Our field results revealed a significant negative interaction effect between lizard inclusion and time on the abundance of ground-dwelling arthropods sized 2-5 mm (! = -0.017, SE = 0.006, p = 0.006), and a marginally significant negative effect of lizard inclusion on arthropods > 5 mm (! = -0.303, SE = 0.153, p = 0.052), irrespective of time. We detected no effect of lizards on the abundance of airborne arthropods or prey < 2 mm. However, our functional response trials revealed lizards’ capacity to consume copious amounts of small prey when naturally aggregated, as well as large amounts of prey biomass relative to predator body size. We found no influence of lizard inclusion on herbivory damage, potentially a result of intraguild predation by lizards on large predatory arthropods and small sample size. Our study illustrates the capacity of lizards to suppress large or naturally clumped ground-dwelling prey, especially later in the growing season when resources become scarce. We argue that biocontrol services are best realized when P. erhardii is among a diverse assemblage of predators, in order to maximize control of herbivorous insects over appropriate spatiotemporal scales. Accordingly, we recommend future studies involve long-term investigation of food web level interactions, including traitmediated effects.
Lisle, H. de (2016) -
Literak, L. & Robesova, B. & Majlathova, V. & Majlath, I. & Kulich, P. & Fabian, P. & Roubalova, E. (2010) -
Papillomatous skin lesions from a green lizard (Lacerta viridis) were examined histologically, using electron microscopy and DNA was isolated from the lesions for herpes-viral DNA detection. Histology confirmed the lesions to be squamous epithelial papillomas. Using electron microscopy, no virus particles were detected. The specific sequence of herpesviral DNA-directed DNA polymerase (EC 2.7.7.7) was amplified using degenerate primers in a nested format. The 235-base-pair (bp) sequence was sequenced and compared with previously published DNA-directed DNA polymerase sequences from various reptile herpesviruses. The sequence from the green lizard showed significant similarity with sequence of fibropapilloma-associated turtle herpesviruses from sea turtles.
Lithander, L. & Nilsson, A.M. (2010) -
Litmer, A.R. & Murray, C.M. (2019) -
Understanding the evolution of thermal tolerance in ectotherms is particularly important given the current period of rapid change in the environment and thermal climate. Specifically, introduced species have the potential to evolve different thermal tolerances than native populations due to rapid evolution and novel selection pressures. Our study examined critical thermal tolerance in two introduced lizard species, the European wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in Ohio and Kentucky, and the Mediterranean gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus) from Texas through Alabama. We tested the hypotheses that critical thermal maximum, minimum, and breadth varies among introduced populations of P. muralis and H. turcicus, and that critical thermal tolerance broadens when moving away from the introduction site, because dispersal across novel environments may remove dispersers with narrow thermal tolerances. We found that among P. muralis populations, CTmin and thermal breadth were significantly different. Specifically, when moving away from the introduction site, lizards exhibited increased cold tolerance and broader thermal breadth. Variability in thermal parameters were also lowest at the site closest to the introduction point in P. muralis. In contrast, H. turcicus had no significant differences in critical thermal minimum, maximum, or breadth among sites, or with respect to distance from introduction point. However, we did find little variability in thermal maximum, compared to greater variability in overall tolerance and critical thermal minimums. Thus, this study shows that selection on thermal tolerance and dispersal characteristics occur in novel climatic environments. Understanding how thermal tolerance changes over time can aid in predicting establishment and movement of introduced species, with applications for native species during a time of global climatic change.
Litsi Mizan, V. (2015) -
The unique conditions of island environments make them particularly interesting systems to study genetic and morphological variation and to assess the evolutionary processes that determine them. Sicily is the largest island of the Mediterranean basin that, considering its complex paleogeographic history and geographic features and its heterogeneous environments, provides an excellent setting to investigate microevolutionary processes that have led to present day diversity of its endemic taxa. In this context, we investigated the diversity, both at the genetic and morphological level, of the wall lizard Podarcis wagleriana, a species strictly endemic to Sicily and its satellite islands. We used two mitochondrial markers (nd4 and cytb) to assess the genetic structure and investigate the phylogeographic patterns of the species based on samples from 24 different localities. This analysis revealed three distinct mitochondrial clades, located in the west, east and north of the range, likely originated in distinct glacial refugia during Pleistocene, thus conforming to the “refugia within refugia” model. Allopatric divergence in isolated refugia as well as demographic expansions followed by secondary contacts, probably played a major role in shaping the genetic diversity patterns of this species. To assess the morphological variation of P. wagleriana, three morphological character sets (size, pholidosis, head shape) were analyzed in individuals from 37 different localities. Our results indicated that in most cases the variation was spatially structured and could be explained as the result of phenotypic plasticity or adaptations to local environmental and ecological conditions. However, some characters (head shape) showed also concordance with genetic patterns, indicating that the long persistence in Pleistocene refugia could have also triggered natural selection on certain characters.
Litvinchuk S.N. & Aksyonov N.D. & Borkin L.J. & Doronin I.V. & Erashkin V.O. & Kidov A.A. (2024) -
The study of genome size variation in cells of vertebrates using the DNA flow cytometry makes it possible to precisely determine polyploid individuals, which is extremely important when studying the processes of reticulate speciation. In addition, in many groups of vertebrates, closely related species often differ in the nuclear DNA content. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to explore the variability of genome size and ploidy in populations of 29 species and subspecies of mountain lizards of the genus Darevskia, as well as their hybrids. As a result of the study, the range of variability in individuals of different ploidy (91% of diploid and 9% of triploid individuals) was established not to overlap. Among diploid species, no correlation was found between the nuclear DNA content and phylogenetic relationships, geographic coordinates, altitude, average annual temperatures and precipitation. Representatives of all studied species complexes (with the exception of D. adjarica) had approximately the same limits of variability. Two species (D. derjugini and D. saxicola) show significant intraspecific variability. Comparisons of the genome size of parthenogenetic and bisexual species generally revealed no noticeable differences between them. Studies of triploid hybrids have shown that their genome size as a whole roughly corresponds to the sum of the average size of the diploid genome of the maternal parthenogenetic species and the haploid genome of the paternal species. The variability of genome sizes within samples of triploid hybrids was on average slightly higher than in most parthenogenetic species, but some lower than in bisexual species. The paper discusses peculiarities of reticulate speciation in this group of animals.
С.Н. Литвинчукa, Н.Д. Аксеновa, Л.Я. Боркинc, И.В. Доронинc, В.О. Ерашкинd, А.А. Кидов (2024) -
Измерение размера генома в клетках позвоночных животных с помощью прецизионного мето- да проточной ДНК-цитометрии позволяет безошибочно определять полиплоидных особей, что крайне важно при изучении процессов гибридогенного видообразования. Кроме того, во мно- гих группах позвоночных животных близкородственные виды часто различаются по количеству ядерной ДНК. Поэтому целью нашего исследования было изучение с помощью этого метода из- менчивости размера генома и плоидности в популяциях скальных ящериц рода Darevskia, а также их гибридов. В ходе исследования 29 видов и подвидов установлено, что размах изменчивости у особей с разной плоидностью (91% диплоидных и 9% триплоидных особей) не перекрывался. Среди диплоидных видов связи между количеством ядерной ДНК и филогенетическими вза- имоотношениями, географическими координатами, высотой, среднегодовыми температурами и количеством осадков выявлено не было. Представители всех изученных комплексов видов (за исключением D. adjarica) имели примерно одинаковые пределы изменчивости. У ряда видов (D. derjugini и D. saxicola) отмечена существенная внутривидовая изменчивость. Сравнение раз- мера генома у партеногенетических и бисексуальных видов в целом не выявило заметных разли- чий между ними. Изучение триплоидных гибридов показало, что их размер генома, как правило, примерно соответствует сумме среднего диплоидного размера генома материнского партеногене- тического вида и гаплоидного генома отцовского вида. Изменчивость по размеру генома внутри выборок триплоидных гибридов в среднем была несколько выше, чем у большинства партеноге- нетических видов, но чуть ниже, чем у бисексуальных видов. В статье обсуждаются особенности гибридогенного видообразования в данной группе животных.
Litvinchuk, S.N. & Skorinov, D.V. (2018) -
A new record of D. pontica in the Kuban-Azov Lowland was described. This is the northernmost locality for the species. This population could be relic or recently introduced. To estimate the presumed relic origin of the population, we using GIS modeling estimated distributional range dynamics of the species since the Late Pleistocene. Currently and during the previous times, the locality had little suitable environmental conditions for a survival of the species. Therefore, we consider that the population more likely to be introduced.
Litvinov, N. & Ganshchuk, S. (2005) -
Litvinov, N.A. & Chetanov, N.A. & Ganschuk, S.V. & Yugov, M.V. & Galiulin, D.M. (2021) -
Litzelmann, E. (1928) -
Liu-Yu, M.-C. (1970) -
Liu, C.C. (1935) -
Liu, C.C. (1939) -
Liu, E.F. & Buchanan, C.A. & Eifler, M.A. & Eifler, D.A. (2019) -
Liu, J. & Ananjeva, N.A. & Chirikova, M.A. & Milto, K.D. & Guo, X. (2014) -
The rapid racerunner, Eremias velox, is a widely distributed lizard from the northern Caucasus across entire Central Asia eastward to China. It is increasingly common to accept E. velox as a species complex in its entire range. To date, published morphological and molecular systematic hypotheses of this complex are only partially congruent, and its taxonomic status and evolutionary history are still far from clear. The mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and 12S rRNA sequences were used to evaluate the taxonomy of this complex, with particular attention to the phylogenetic placement of populations in northwestern China. Examination of the phylogenetic analyses recovers seven distinct, biogeographically discrete, and well-supported clades, revealing genetically identifiable populations corresponding to some previously morphology-defined subspecies. Chinese E. v. roborowskii appears to have split from other Central Asian rapid racerunner lizards well before differentiation occurred among the latter taxa. Specifically, we corroborate that there are two subspecies occurring in China, i.e., E. v. velox and £. v. roborowskii. We recommend a novel subspecific status for the phenotypically and genetically distinct populations in southern Aral Sea region of Uzbekistan previously assigned to E. v. velox. Finally, each of the three independently evolving lineages from Iranian Plateau should be recognized as three species new to science under the general lineage concept.
Liu, J. & Dujsebayeva, T.N. & Chirikova, M.A. & Song, Q. & Gong, X. & Guo, X. (2021) -
The status of Eremias stummeri in China has been a matter of controversy for over two decades, although it is well acknowledged that this species occurs in Northeast Kyrgyzstan and Southeast Kazakhstan. To date, whether its occurrence extends to the adjacent Chinese region (possibly in the Ily River Valley) has not been confirmed yet. To overcome constraints on field surveys imposed by the region’s remoteness and rugged terrain, we targeted areas of further field inventories by estimating the potential distribution of the species. Ecological niche modeling (ENM) enabled us to predict a continuous distribution area from Kazakhstan to the Chinese part of the Ily River Valley in Zhaosu county for the species’ occurrence. We conducted extensive field surveys in the predicted area. In 2017, for the first time, the occurrence of E. stummeri in China was confirmed with a single find in Zhaosu county. Further morphological and multilocus phylogenetic analyses congruently supported the taxonomic status of the recently discovered population as E. stummeri. In contrast to its distribution continuity between Kazakhstan and China, the ENM indicates distribution discontinuity between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. This geographic distribution pattern of E. stummeri is supported by morphological and molecular evidence, which highlights that individuals from China and Kazakhstan are more closely related to each other than to those from Kyrgyzstan. The mismatch between mitochondrial and nuclear phylogeographic pattern implies that historical mitochondrial introgression occurred from E. stummeri individuals from Kyrgyzstan to those from Kazakhstan.
Liu, J. & Guo, X. & Chen, D. & Li, J., & Yue, B. & Zeng, X. (2018) -
Late Cenozoic stepwise aridification has transformed Central Asia into an arid environment, and the Pleistocene climatic oscillations exerted further ecological impact. Therefore, both aridification and glaciation would have considerably influenced the evolution of many midlatitude species in arid Central Asia (ACA). However, strong biotic evidence supporting this role is still lacking. Here, we test this perspective using a phylogeographic study of Eremias velox, which is an arid-adapted lizard, across ACA using sequences from mitochondrial cytochrome b and 12S rRNA genes. Phylogenetic analyses of the concatenated data, including 595 specimens from 107 localities, revealed ten geographically correlated lineages that diverged by 1.1–15.4% for the cytochrome b gene and 1.0–10.3% for the 12S rRNA gene, which were estimated to have coalesced ∼6.23 million years ago. Ancestral area estimations suggested that E. velox originated from the Iranian Plateau and then dispersed into Central Asia. The intensification of aridification across Central Asia during the Late Pliocene may have facilitated the rapid radiation of this arid-adapted lizard throughout this vast territory. Subsequently, the geological events (e.g., uplift of the Kopet-Dagh, Tianshan and Greater Caucasus Mountains) and glacial oscillations during the Pleistocene triggered the progressive diversification of E. velox. The most recent common ancestor of the Caucasus-Central Asia clade was dated to approximately 2.05 Ma. Specifically, the diversification between the Caucasus clade (VI, VII) and the Central Asia clade (VIII, IX, X), and within the Central Asia clade may have been established and partially maintained by repeated transgressions of the Caspian Sea during the Pleistocene and Holocene. In contrast to demographic and/or range contractions in response to climatic changes during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) of the populations (Clades VI and X) from the Caucasus-Central Asia clade, mitochondrial evidence and ecological niche modeling support the signature of demographic and range expansions during the LGM for the Clade V populations (E. v. roborowskii, being endemic to the Turpan Depression). The effect of Pleistocene climatic changes on the historical demography of this arid-adapted species may be lineagespecific, depending predominantly on animal physiology and geography. Finally, we discuss the taxonomic implications, such as the appearance of the Turkmenistan populations as a distinct species, and E. v. roborowskii deserving a full species status.
Liu, J.-L. & Yuan, X.-Y. & Zhou, T.-H. & Li, D.-J. & Dujsebayeva, T.N. & Gio, X.-G. (2014) -
During the survey on the amphibians and reptiles diversity in Jinhe County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in June 2013, over twenty specimens of the racerunners were captured at the town of Bujiahu. Among them, four were identified as variegated racerunner, Eremisa vermiculata Blanford, 1875, which is the first record in the north of the Tianshan Mountains in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. This discovery enriches our understanding of the distribution data of the variegated racerunner, and will facilitate the investigation of its phylogeographical pattern and testing the barrier effect of the Tianshan Mountains to gene flow.
刘金龙, 原秀云, 周天和, 李大江, Dujsebayeva, T.N. & 郭 宪 光 (2014) -
`#$’ 年 * 月! 在新疆维吾尔族自治区精河县两栖爬行动物多样性调察中! 采集到麻蜥属 `M*%?#+标本 `# 余号! 经鉴定其中 % 号为虫纹麻蜥`MK>%*?#3),+4+#! 为该种在新疆维吾尔自治区天 山以北地区的首次发现! 增加了其在国内的分布点& 此发现能为研究虫纹麻蜥的地理分布和生物地理 格局提供基础资料&
Liu, J.L. & Dujsebayeva, T.N. & Chirikova, M.A. & Gong, M.A. & Li, D.J. & Guo, X.G. (2021) -
The Eremias multiocellata-przewalskii species complex is a viviparous group in the genus Eremias, and a well-known representative of taxonomically complicated taxa. Within this complex, a new species - E. dzungarica (Orlova et al., 2017) - has been described recently from western Mongolia and eastern Kazakhstan, with an apparent distribution gap in northwestern China. In this study, we used an integrative taxonomic framework to address whether E. dzungarica indeed occurs in China. Thirty specimens previously classified as E. multiocellata were collected in eastern Kazakhstan and the adjacent Altay region in China. The cytochrome c oxidase I ( COI) barcodes were sequenced and compiled with those from Orlova et al. (2017) and analyzed with the standard and diverse barcoding techniques. We detected an absence of a barcoding gap in this complex, which indicates potential cryptic species in Eremias sp. 3 with high intraspecific diversity and multiple recently evolved species in Clade A. Both BIN and GMYC suggested an unrealistically large number of species (23 and 26, respectively), while ABGD, mPTP and BPP indicated a more conservative number of species (10, 12, and 15, respectively), largely concordant with the previously defined species-level lineages according to phylogenetic trees. Based on molecular phylogeny and morphological examination, all 30 individuals collected in this study were reliably identified as E. dzungarica - a distinct species - confirming the occurrence of this species in the Altay region, Xinjiang, China. Potentially owing to the larger sample size in this study, our morphological analyses revealed many inconsistencies with the original descriptions of E. dzungarica, which were primarily associated with sexual dimorphism and a broader range of values for various traits.
Liu, N.F. & Geng, Z.R. (1995) -
Food composition in stomaches of 209 adults and 43 juveniles of Eremiqs multiocellata in Minqin area of Gansu Province is analyzed. The results show that Eremias multiocellata is a kind of omnivorous animal which mainly feeds on beetles and Nitraria fruits. After its dormancy, this animal begins to strongly ingest, its ingesting rate being more than 83%.It has an obvious seasonal variation of feeding habit, i.e. only animals are ingested inspring, half of animal and plant in summer, and third of plant in autumn. The diversityof food and the breadth of trophic niche are increased with its increasing size growth.
Liu, P. & Liu, Z.-T. & Li, D.-W. & Zhao, W.-G. (2008) -
By the methods of instantaneous and scan sampling and of all-occurrence recording, the diurnal activity rhythm and time budget of Lacerta vivipara in Xiaoxing’an Mountains of Heilongjiang Province were studied from May to July, 2007. The results showed that basking and resting were the main activities of L. vivipara, and the remaining time was devoted to feeding, social activities, and others. The duration for feeding and other activities was shorter, while that for basking was longer in cloudy days than in fine days. Though the daily activity rhythms of male, female, and juvenile L. vivipara under different weather conditions all showed two peaks, there still existed differences in the beginning and standing time of their activities, the appearing and standing time of the activities peaks, and the values of the peaks. In fine days, the beginning time of the activities was earlier, and the duration and interval time were longer; while in cloudy days, the duration for activities was shorter, and the appearance frequency of activities peaks was higher. The males devoted more time to activities and appeared more at activities peaks than the females, while the juveniles began activities later and appeared lesser than the adults. Air temperature, ground temperature, and illumination affected the daily activity rhythm of L. vivipara, and illumination was the most important affecting factor. The lizard began to come out when the relative illumination reached to 40%. Temperature mainly affected the numbers of activities, and the activities peaks occurred when the ground temperature was 23 ℃-32 ℃ and air temperature was 21 ℃-29 ℃.
Liu, P. & Zhao, W.-G. & Liu, Z.-T. & Dong, B.-J. & Chen H. (2008) -
Lacerta vivipara is a small lacertid lizard that inhabits much of Europe and northern Asia. From the end of May to the beginning of October in 2003, these common lizards were collected from a population in Heilongjiang Province (northeast China) in order to study sexual dimorphism and female reproductive traits. Through the examination of external morphological traits, such as snout-vent length, head length, head width, head height, tail length, body weight, rows of ventral and mid-dorsals scales, ventral color, tail base and femoral pores, analyses revealed the presence of a distinct sexual dimorphism. Males possessed a bulging tail base, a salmon-pink venter and a thorn in the femoral pore. Females had significantly more rows of ventral scales and fewer mid-dorsal scales than males. Adult males were larger in head size and had a longer tail, whereas adult females were larger in body size and weight. Male juveniles and neonates were larger in head size than females of the same age and female neonates were larger in body size than male neonates. The rates at which head length, head width and head height increased with increasing SVL (snout-vent length) was allometric in females. Females produced a single clutch every breeding season, with 3–12 young per clutch. While clutch size and neonate mass were not positively correlated with maternal SVL, clutch mass was, suggesting that sexual dimorphism in this species is due (in part) to differences in reproductive investment between the sexes. The larger head of males is likely an adaptation for male-male combat while the larger relative body length of females is a result of selection for higher fecundity.
Liu, P. & Zhu, D. & Zhao, W.G. & JI, X. (2016) -
The mitochondrial genome of Zootoca vivipara (Squamata: Lacertidae) is a circular molecule of 17,046 bp in size and consists of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNAs, 2 ribosomal RNAs and a control region. The A + T content of the overall base composition of H-strand is 63.43% (T: 30.95%, C: 24.03%, A: 32.48%, G: 12.54%). Protein-coding genes begin with ATG as start codon except COII with GTG. ND1, ATP8, ATP6, ND4L, ND5 and Cyt b genes are terminated with TAA as stop codon, ND2 ends with TAG, COI and ND6 end with AGG, and the other four protein-coding genes end with an incomplete stop codon (a single stop nucleotide T).
Liu, W. & Liu, P. & Cui, L. & Meng, Y. & Tao, S. & Han, X. & Sun, B. (2022) -
1. Warming temperatures caused by climate change are predicted to vary temporally and spatially. For mid- and high-latitude reptiles, the seasonal variation in warming temperatures experienced by embryos and hatchlings may determine offspring fitness, yet this has remained largely unexplored. 2. To evaluate the independent and interactive influence of seasonal variation in warming temperatures on embryonic and hatchling development, we incubated eggs and reared hatchlings of a cold-climate oviparous ectothermic species, the Heilongjiang grass lizard (Takydromus amurensis), following a 2×2 factorial design (present climate versus warming climate for embryos × present climate versus warming climate for hatchlings). We then evaluated embryonic and hatchling development, including hatching success, incubation period, initial hatchling body size, hatchling metabolic rate, growth rate and survival in the mesocosms. 3. We found that warming temperatures shortened the incubation period and produced hatchlings with higher survival rates than those incubated under the present climate conditions. Similarly, hatchlings reared under a warming climate had similar growth rates and resting metabolic rates, but higher survival rates than those reared under the present climate. Hatchlings that experienced both warming incubation and warming growth conditions had the highest survival rates. 4. This study revealed that moderate warming temperatures (Representative Concentration Pathway, RCP 4.5, 1.1–2.6°C) experienced by embryos and hatchlings interact to benefit hatchling fitness in cold-climate oviparous ectotherms. Our study also highlighted the importance of integrating seasonal variation in warming temperatures when evaluating the responses to climate warming in multiple developmental stages in oviparous ectotherms.
Liu, W. & Liu, Y. & Liu, P. & Zhao, W. (2020) -
The Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC), as a family of highly polymorphic genes associated with immunity in the genome of the vertebrate, has become an important indicator for assessing the evolutionary potential of wildlife. In order to better protect Zootoca vivipara in the Greater Khingan Range and Lesser Khingan Range, to understand the genetic structure of Z. vivipara, and to explore the mechanism and phylogenetic relationship of the gene polymorphisms, the MHC molecular marker method was used to analyze Z. vivipara population. Forty-seven alleles were obtained from four populations. The four populations were highly polymorphic, rich in genetic information, and had significant genetic diversity. There were certain inbreeding phenomena. There was a high degree of genetic differentiation among populations, which was caused by genetic drift and natural selection. The sequence undergoes genetic duplication and recombination. The existence of trans-species polymorphism was found in the constructed phylogenetic tree. The present study provides a theoretical basis for species protection of Z. vivipara.
Liuzzi, C. & D´Agostino, V. & Nitti, N. & Mastropasqua, F. & Todisco, S. & Pelitteri-Rosa, D. (2016) -
Liuzzi, C. & Mastropasqua, F. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. (2021) -
We show the results of a field survey to evaluate the possible chromatic variety of the dorsal pattern in the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) in a population from central Apulia. The two main objectives of this study were: 1) evaluate chromatic differences of the dorsal pattern among seasons; 2) check the individual differences in dorsal coloration. During 2015, we carried out four sampling sessions, taking pictures of all the observable individuals along a transept of about 1 km inside the ZSC “Murgia dei Trulli” near Monopoli (BA). The site is characterized by an uncultivated annual vegetation, alternating with Mediterranean scrub and conifers, with a conspicuous presence of dry stone walls. Individuals were characterized by the predominant dorsal pattern coloration. Furthermore, we recognized the same individuals between different sessions thanks to the photographic marking. In the first session (III decade of March), 98% of the individuals were green (100% of the males); in the second session (I decade of June) 46% were brown; in the third session (I decade of August) 95% were brown (97% of males); in the fourth session (I decade of October) 47% were intermediate (partial overlap between brown and green). Our results highlighted how the dorsal coloration in P. siculus varies annually, probably in relation to the environmental changes according to seasons.
Liuzzi, Maggiore, G. & Moscatello, S. (2016) -
Livet, F. (1982) -
Livet, F. & J. Bons (1981) -
Liwanag, H.E.M. & Haro, D. & Callejas, B. & Labib, G. & Pauly, G.B. (2018) -
Temperature has a substantial effect on both the physiology and behavior of ectothermic animals such as lizards. Physiology and behavior can also be influenced by ontogenetic and sex differences, but these effects are largely understudied in lizards. We examined ontogenetic and sex-based differences in thermal tolerances, preferred temperature, and temperature-dependent evaporative water loss rates in Italian Wall Lizards, Podarcis siculus, collected from an introduced population near Los Angeles, California, USA that were acclimated to laboratory conditions. Podarcis siculus has been introduced to multiple localities in the USA and the Mediterranean region and has demonstrated remarkable ability to adapt to novel climatic conditions. In the California population, adults of both sexes had a higher critical thermal maximum (CTmax) than juveniles, and adult females had a lower critical thermal minimum (CTmin) than juveniles and adult males. Thus, adult females had a significantly wider thermal breadth (CTmax - CTmin) compared to adult males and juveniles. Mass-specific evaporative water loss was higher in juveniles compared to adult males at intermediate temperatures. There was no significant difference among groups for preferred temperature. This implies that thermal tolerance, a physiological characteristic, varies with age and sex for this population, whereas thermal preference, a behavioral characteristic, does not. Interestingly, CTmin for all age and sex classes was above temperatures likely experienced by some nonnative populations in winter, suggesting individuals need to find urban thermal retreats. These results add to the growing literature demonstrating that thermal tolerances and breadths can vary between sexes and across age classes in squamate species.
Lizana-Ciudad, D. & Colino-Rabanal, V.J. & Arribas, O.J. & Lizana, M. (2021) -
The Batuecan lizard Iberolacerta martinezricai is a critically endangered species due to ist significantly reduced distribution, which is restricted to the scree slopes (SS) of a few mountain peaks within the Batuecas-Sierra de Francia Natural Park (western Spain). Given its high specialisation in this type of discontinuous habitat, the long-term conservation of the species requires maintaining the connectivity between populations. This study analyses the contribution of connectivity, as well as other patch-related factors, in the distribution and density patterns of the species. With this aim, 67 SS were sampled by line transects from May to October 2018. Each SS was characterised using variables indicative of the microhabitat conditions for the lizard. Inter-SS connectivity was quantified using graph theory for seven distances. Generalised linear models (GLMs) were performed for both presence and density. Model results showed that while connectivity was a relevant factor in the presence of lizards, density only involved patch-related variables. Discrepancies probably occurred because the factors influencing presence operate on a wider scale than those of abundance. In view of the results, the best-connected SS, but also those where the lizard is most abundant and from which more dispersed individuals are likely to depart, seem to be the essential patches in any conservation strategy. The results may also be relevant to other species with habitat-specific requirements.
Lizana, M. (2009) -
Lizana, M. & Carbonero, J. (2007) -
Lizana, M. & Martín-Sánchez, R. & Morales, J. & López-González, J. & Gutiérrez, J. (1993) -
Ljubisavljević K. & Polović L. & Ivanović A. (2008) -
Sexual differences in size and shape of the Mosor rock lizard, Dinarolacerta mosorensis (Kolombatović, 1886), from Lovćen Mountain (Montenegro) were examined on the basis of the intersex variation pattern of nine morphomet- ric, eight pholidotic, and four qualitative traits. Sexual dimorphism was apparent for all morphometric characters except snout-vent length, while scalation and dorsal pattern exhibited small differences between sexes. The value of the sexual size difference (SSD) index based on snout-vent length was 1.028. The sex-specific allometric slopes for head dimensions and interlimb distance significantly diverged. Head dimensions, especially head height, showed strong positive allometry in males, while interlimb distance was the only character which showed positive allometry in females. Generally, males had significantly greater body size than females. This was true of all body measurements except interlimb distance. The influence of sexual and natural selection on the examined traits is discussed.
Ljubisavljevic, K. (2004) -
Ljubisavljevic, K. (2019) -
Ljubisavljević, K. & Arribas, O. & Džukić, G. & Carranza, S. (2007) -
A new species of lacertid lizard of the genus Dinarolacerta is described from the Prokletije Mountain Massif, Montenegro. This new species, Dinarolacerta montenegrina sp. nov., is characterized by its relatively small size, by usually having only one postnasal scale on one or on both sides of the head, a relatively lower number of temporal and postocular scales and a relatively high number of ventral scales. Osteologically, it is mainly characterized by the complete absence of the anteromedial process in the postocular bone, and more reduced supraocular osteoderms. The phylogenetic analysis using partial sequences of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene supports the specific status of D. montenegrina sp. nov. and shows that it represents an old independent lineage that separated from its sister species, D. mosorensis, in the late Miocene. The Morača river canyon may have acted as a geomorphological and climatic barrier causing the speciation between the two species of Dinarolacerta. The discovery of this new species endemic to the Balkan Peninsula highlights the importance of the Dinarides as one of the main European hotspots of biodiversity. This high level of endemicity in the Dinaric region is probably the result of both its geographic situation and its complex geological history and morphology.
Ljubisavljevic, K. & Dzukic, G. & Kalezic, M.L. (2008) -
We presented the first data on female reproductive traits of the meadow lizard Darevskia praticola from the westernmost boundary of the species range (Peridanubian Serbia). Mating occurs during April and May, oviposition period occurs in June, and hatching takes place in July. Females mature at body sizes of 49.5 mm of snout-vent length (SVL). One clutch is produced annually. The average clutch size of 5.7 eggs (range 4 – 8) represents the largest recorded for this species. Clutch size and clutch mass increased significantly with the mother’s SVL. There was no evidence of the predicted trade-off between egg size and clutch size, as well as of variation in egg size associated with maternal SVL. The relative clutch mass (RCM) was rather high (0.60) for lacertid species and was not correlated with female size.
Ljubisavljević, K. & Džukić, G. & Kalezić, M.L. (2010) -
We present data on the female reproductive traits of the Balkan wall lizard in the Deliblato Sand, a large continental sandland in the Pannonian area in the northwestern periphery of the species range. The clutch and egg characteristics of the population were investigated on the basis of clutches laid in laboratory conditions by gravid females captured in one locality. Balkan wall lizards produced at least two clutches in a breeding season. Individual females laid clutches of commonly two (range 1–4) eggs. The female body size had no effect on clutch and egg size. There was no trade-off between egg size and clutch size.
Ljubisavljević, K. & Glasnović, P. & Kalan, K. & Kryštufek, B. (2012) -
In this paper, we present data on the female reproductive traits of the Horvath’s rock lizard from Slovenia. The clutch, egg and hatchling characteristics were investigated based on clutches laid in laboratory conditions by pregnant females collected from a natural population. A female lays one clutch of eggs annually with an average number of three (range 1-5) eggs. We found a significant positive correlation between female size and egg width and volume. The mean egg length and volume in a clutch decreased significantly with clutch size independently of female size. The incubation period averaged 44 days. Significant positive correlations were found between the hatchling total length and mass, and egg mass. There was a significant negative relationship between the egg mass and incubation duration. The life-history strategy of the Horvath’s rock lizard appeared to be shaped by several factors, such as the constraints of a high-altitude environment, flattened body morphology and possibly phylogenetic background.
Ljubisavljević, K. & Jović, D. & Džukić, G. (2010) -
The variation in some of the morphometric, meristic and qualitative characters of the Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara) in five population samples from mountains of the Central Balkans was analyzed using univariate and multivariate statistics. The morphological differentiation was greater in males than in females and is more expressed in the morphometric than in the pholidosis and qualitative characters. The largest differences in morphometric traits appeared between the populations from the Šara and Stara Planina mountains. The “median” pileus pattern generally prevailed, with the appearance of other states in a certain proportion in some of the populations. Further analyses of the possible morphological and ecological distinctions of the population from Mt Tara are proposed.
Ljubisavljevic, K. & Orlova, V. & Dzukic, G. & Kalezic, M.L. (2006) -
Ljubisavljevic, K. & Polovic, L. & Ikovic, V. & Vuksanovic, S. & Vukov, T.D. (2015) -
Dinarolacerta mosorensis and D. montenegrina are allopatric and closely related rock lizards endemic to the Dinaric Mountains of the Balkan Peninsula. We analysed their habitat characteristics and relative abundances in the mountains of Montenegro. We found significant differences in structural features of the microhabitat used both between populations of D. mosorensis and the two species. Dinarolacerta mosorensis was associated with relatively more shaded and damper spots on rocks closer to vegetation and leaf litter, while D. montenegrina was found in more open, rocky situations. There were significant differences in relative abundance between the sampling sites. Generally, the studied lizards were more abundant at sites with greater percentage of leaf litter and lower percentages of bare ground and small rocks, despite the lower frequency of available refuges in these places. Our results provide basic information that could assist in the adoption of adequate management practices for protection or restoration of habitat attributes relevant to these vulnerable (D. mosorensis) and endemic species.
Ljubisavljevic, K. & Polovic, L. & Ikovic, V. & Vuksanovic, S. & Yukov, T.D. (2015) -
Ljubisavljevic, K. & Polovic, L. & Ikovic, V. & Vuksanovic, S. & Zagora, V. & Urosevic, A. & Tomovic, L. (2016) -
Ljubisavljevic, K. & Polovic, L. & Kolarov, N.T. & Dzukic, G. & Kalezic, M. (2007) -
nalysis of the female life history of the poorly studied endemic Balkan lizard species Dinarolacerta mosorensis was conducted on three population samples from Montenegro. One clutch is produced annually. Females mature at body sizes of 56-57 mm snout-vent length (SVL), attained at age 3-4 years. SVL increases with age. The average clutch size ranged from 4.3 to 5.2 eggs, and was significantly positively correlated with maternal SVL in two population samples. There were no trade-offs between egg size/offspring size and clutch size, nor between variation in egg size/offspring size and maternal SVL. The incubation period averaged 26.5 days, while hatching success in captivity was 72%. Significant positive correlations were found between the hatchling mass and egg mass and size, and also between the hatchling total length and egg width and volume. There was a significant negative relationship between the hatchling mass and incubation duration.
Ljubisavljević, K. & Polović, L. & Urošević, A. & Ivanović, A. (2011) -
We applied a geometric morphometrics approach to examine sexual size and shape dimorphisms (SSD and SShD) in dorsal and ventral skull portions and cephalic scales (pileus) in the lacertid lizard Algyroides nigropunctatus. We found significant sexual dimorphism in all three structures that are mostly attributable to allometry. Males and females share allometric trajectories for the pileus and dorsal portion of the skull, i.e. the significant differences in shape between sexes are due to differences in size. Regardless of sex, allometric shape differences between small and large individuals show negative allometry in the anterior parts and more pronounced positive allometry of the parietal region in the dorsal skull and pileus. We observed a marginally significant divergence in sex-specific allometric trajectories of the ventral skull. The similar patterns of covariation between the ventral skull and the dorsal skull portion and pileus indicate close relationships between the skull bones and cephalic scales. The stronger covariation between the ventral and dorsal skull portion in males compared to females raises the question whether sexual dimorphism in the structure of morphological variation of the lizard skull exists.
Ljubisavljevic, K. & Polovic, L. & Vuksanovic, S. & Ikovic, V. (2014) -
Ljubisavljevic, K. & Tome, S. & Dzukic, G. & Kalezic, M.L. (2005) -
Ljubisavljevic, K. & Tomovic, L. & Urosevic, A. & Gvozdenovic, S. & Ikovic, V. & Zagora, V. & Labus, N. (2018) -
Ljubisavljevic, K. & Tomovic, L. & Urpsevic, A. & Gvozdenovic, S. & Ikovic, V. & Zagora, V. & Labus, N. (2018) -
The southern part of Montenegro has been identified as an area with high diversity of herpetofauna. However, comprehensive studies of distribution and diversity patterns of reptiles on the country level are still missing. Such studies are essential in designating areas of special conservation importance and nature protection planning in a milieu of increased habitat loss and degradation due to rapid urbanization and tourism development in this small Mediterranean country. To make progress on this problem, we analyzed distribution and diversity patterns of the lizards in Montenegro using a large database consisting of literature data and our unpublished records. We found that fifteen lizard species inhabit Montenegro, and two additional species may be present. The lizards were most diverse in the Maritime biogeographic region of Montenegro, while low diversity was found predominantly along the state borders in the Mountain-valley region. The identified pattern of lizard diversity is at least partly influenced by sampling bias. The eastern mountainous subregion had a distinct species composition compared to all other parts of the country. The East-Mediterranean chorotype was the most dominant, represented by seven species. The great diversity of the lizard fauna of Montenegro can be attributed to its specific topographic position with great influence of Mediterranean climate, heterogeneity of biomes, complex geological history and diverse physiogeographic features. High lizard species richness in the Maritime region and a unique species composition in the eastern subregion of Montenegro indicate that these areas are of high conservation interest.
Ljubisavljević, K. & Urošević, A. & Aleksić, I. & Ivanović, A. (2010) -
Geometric morphometric techniques were used to examine allometric and non-allometric influences on sexual shape dimorphism (SShD) in the ventral cranium (skull base, palate and upper jaw) of four species of lacertid lizards (Podarcis muralis, Podarcis melisellensis, Dalmatolacerta oxycephala, Dinarolacerta mosorensis). These species differ in body shape, ecology and degree of phylogenetic relatedness. The structures of the ventral cranium that were studied are directly involved in the mechanics of feeding and are connected to the jaw musculature; these structures are potentially subject to both sexual and natural selection. Allometry accounted for a considerable degree of cranial shape variation between the sexes. Allometric shape changes between individuals with smaller cranium size and individuals with larger cranium size are mostly related to changes in the skull base showing pronounced negative allometry. The rostral part, however, either scaled isometrically or showed less pronounced negative allometry than the skull base. Non-allometric intersexual shape variation predominantly involved changes related to the jaw adductor muscle chamber, i.e., changes that are associated with biomechanically relevant traits of the jaw system in females and males. Both allometric and non-allometric shape changes appeared to be species-specific. Our results indicate that natural and sexual selection may be involved in the evolution of SShD.
Ljubisavljevic, K.& Andelkovic, M. & Urosevic, A. & Roitberg, E.S. (2022) -
The sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), which occupies a large part of temperate Eurasia and includes several morphologically and genetically distinct lineages, is a model species for life-history studies. Yet, for major parts of the species range, basic data on female reproductive traits are lacking. Here we present the first data on female reproductive traits of Lacerta agilis bosnica, a poorly studied lineage inhabiting montane areas of the Balkan Peninsula. Ten females caught in mid-June 2017 on Mt. Maljen (950 m a.s.l.) in western Serbia were monitored and examined in the lab, as well as their eggs and hatchlings. We additionally examined the state and number of oocytes in 31 females from scientific collections. Mean clutch size is quite high (8.0 ± 0.4 eggs) in relation to small mean snout-vent length of gravid females (74 ± 1 mm), mean relative clutch mass is relatively low (0.37 ± 0.02), and egg incubation period (51 ± 1 days at 24-26 °C) is rather long for L. agilis. While mean values of the above traits are within the variation range found across conspecific populations studied thus far, mean values for egg size (mass, 0.42 ± 0.02 g; length, 11.8 ± 0.2 mm; width, 7.7 ± 0.1 mm) and hatchling size (mass, 0.47 ± 0.03 g; SVL, 25.0 ± 0.5 mm; tail length, 30.4 ± 1.6 mm) are clearly smaller than in all previously studied populations of this species.
Ljungström, G. & Stjernstedt, M. & Wapstra, E. & Olsson, M. (2016) -
The trade-off between offspring size and number is a central component of life history theory, postulating that larger investment into offspring size inevitably decreases offspring number. This trade-off is generally discussed in terms of genetic, physiological or morphological constraints, however, as among-individual differences can mask individual trade-offs, the underlying mechanisms may be difficult to reveal. In this study we use multivariate analyses to investigate whether there is a trade-off between offspring size and number in a population of sand lizards by separating among- and within-individual patterns using a 15-year dataset collected in the wild. We also explore the ecological and evolutionary causes and consequences of this trade-off by investigating how a female`s resource- (condition) versus age-related size (snout-vent length) influences her investment into offspring size versus number (OSN), whether these traits are heritable and under selection, and whether the OSN trade-off has a genetic component. We found a negative correlation between offspring size and number within individual females and physical constraints (size of body cavity) appear to limit the number of eggs that a female can produce. This suggests that the OSN trade-off occurs due to resource constraints as a female continues to grow throughout life and, thus, produces larger clutches. In contrast to the assumptions of classic OSN theory, we did not detect selection on offspring size, however, there was directional selection for larger clutch sizes. The repeatabilities of both offspring size and number were low and we did not detect any additive genetic variance in either trait. This could be due to strong selection (past or current) on these life history traits, or to insufficient statistical power to detect significant additive genetic effects. Overall, the findings of this study are an important illustration of how analyses of within-individual patterns can reveal trade-offs and their underlying causes, with potential evolutionary and ecological consequences that are otherwise hidden by among-individual variation.
Ljungström, G. & Wapstra, E. & Olsson, M. (2015) -
Background: Present-day climate change has altered the phenology (the timing of periodic life cycle events) of many plant and animal populations worldwide. Some of these changes have been adaptive, leading to an increase in population fitness, whereas others have been associated with fitness decline. Representing short-term responses to an altered weather regime, hitherto observed changes are largely explained by phenotypic plasticity. However, to track climatically induced shifts in optimal phenotype as climate change proceeds, evolutionary capacity in key limiting climate- and fitness-related traits is likely to be crucial. In order to produce realistic predictions about the effects of climate change on species and populations, a main target for conservation biologists is thus to assess the potential of natural populations to respond by these two mechanisms. In this study we use a large 15-year dataset on an ectotherm model, the Swedish sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), to investigate how higher spring temperature is likely to affect oviposition timing in a high latitude population, a trait strongly linked to offspring fitness and survival. - Results: With an interest in both the short- and potential long-term effect of rising temperatures, we applied a random regression model, which yields estimates of population-level plasticity and among-individual variation in the average, as well as the plastic, response to temperature. Population plasticity represents capacity for short-term adjustments whereas variation among individuals in a fitness-related trait indicates an opportunity for natural selection and hence for evolutionary adaptation. The analysis revealed both population-level plasticity and individual-level variation in average laying date. In contrast, we found no evidence for variation among females in their plastic responses to spring temperature, which could demonstrate a similarity in responses amongst females, but may also be due to a lack of statistical power to detect such an effect. - Conclusion: Our findings indicate that climate warming may have positive fitness effects in this lizard population through an advancement of oviposition date. This prediction is consistent over shorter and potentially also longer time scales as the analysis revealed both population-level plasticity and individual-level variation in average laying date. However, the genetic basis for this variation would have to be examined in order to predict an evolutionary response.
Llanos Garrido, A. (2019) -
Esta tesis trata de, una vez explorados los rasgos fenotípicos que pueden interpretarse como adaptaciones locales, contestar a preguntas que tienen que ver con cómo responde el genoma a las presiones selectivas divergentes que subyacen a la diferenciación de dichos rasgos. En general, no se pretende descubrir la base genética de la adaptación a los gradientes ambientales que generan adaptación local; lo que se busca es desentrañar cómo la evolución provee la variación genética necesaria para afrontar diferentes retos ecológicos en una especie capaz de subsistir en una gran variedad de ambientes. Mediante escaneos genómicos a gran escala, conseguimos definir fracciones del genoma relacionadas con la adaptación a distintos ambientes, revelando patrones de convergencia y divergencia adaptativa gracias a procesos tanto de mantenimiento de diversidad genética ancestral como de innovación genética. Tras conseguir descifrar la huella de la selección natural en el genoma, nos preguntamos acerca de las dinámicas genéticas responsables de los umbrales adaptativos que configuran los límites de la distribución de la especie, como proceso que depende de forma directa de la adaptación local. Por último, realizamos un estudio de los efectos genéticos de la fragmentación del hábitat en una metapoblación de lagartijas, en la que el aumento de la homocigosidad en los fragmentos de menor tamaño dio lugar a una pérdida de aptitud (eficacia biológica o aptitud) en los individuos afectados. Además, nuestro trabajo nos permitió aumentar significativamente la potencia estadística de unos pocos marcadores neutrales (6 loci de microsatélites utilizados para sustentar las correlaciones entre fragmentación, homocigosis y aptitud), validándolos con una base de datos genómica con más de 73,000 variantes genéticas.
Llanos-Garrido, A. & Briega-Álvarez, A. & Pérez-Tris, J. & Diaz, J. (2020) -
During geographical expansion of a species individual colonizers have to confront different ecological challenges, and the capacity of the species to broaden its range may depend on the total amount of adaptive genetic variation supplied by evolution. Weset out to test whether the distribution of loci under selection along a contrasting environmental gradient can be turned into a model that accurately predicts a species’ range. If positive, this may shed light on the genetic source of adaptive limits that shape range boundaries. We sampled five populations of the western Mediterranean lizard Psammodromus algirus that inhabit a noticeable environmental gradient of temperature and precipitation. We used 21 SNPs putatively under selection tocorrelate the genotypes of 95 individuals with environmental variation among their populations, using 1x1 km2 grid cells assampling units. By extrapolating the resulting model to all possible combinations of alleles, we inferred the locations that were the oretically suitable for the species. The inferred distribution range overlapped to a large extent with the realized range ofthe species, including an accurate prediction of internal gaps and range borders. Our results suggest an adaptability threshold determined by the amount of genetic variation available that would be required to warrant adaptation beyond a certain limitof environmental variation. These results support the idea that the expansion of a species’ range may be ultimately linked to the arising of new variants under selection.
Llanos-Garrido, A. & Diaz, J.A. & Arriero, E. (2014) -
Llanos-Garrido, A. & Díaz, J.A. & Pérez-Rodriguez, A. & Arriero, E. (2017) -
In the context of the immunocompetence handicap hypothesis, we explored how differences in parasite load affect the way in which sexual ornaments codify information about individual quality. We studied variation in sexual signals in two Iberian populations of the lizard Psammodromus algirus, a species in which sexually active males display a red head coloration. In one population, males were free of tick nymphs, whereas in the other one all males were tick-infested (mean of 12.7 tick nymphs/individual).At the onset of the breeding season, the red-coloured surface was larger in the non-parasitized population than in the parasitized one, whereas the opposite was true for colour saturation. We experimentally simulated a bacterial infection (by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide) to examine the effects of immune activation on the expression of this sexual ornament. In the non-parasitized population, our treatment caused a reduction in the red-coloured surface of experimental males, whereas in the parasitized population it caused a decrease in colour saturation. In the parasitized population, males that displayed sexual coloration were larger, and had fewer parasites, than uncoloured ones, and inflammatory response to lipopolysaccharide injection in the palm of the hind paw was negatively correlated with colour saturation, but not with colour extension. Thus, we suggest parasites not only constrained the expression of sexual ornaments, but they also changed the signal properties that conveyed useful information about the quality of their bearers.
Llanos-Garrido, A. & Pérez-Tris, J. & Diaz, J.A. (2019) -
Local adaptation is a dynamic process by which different allele combinations are selected in different populations at different times, and whose genetic signature can be inferred by genome-wide outlier analyses. We combined gene flow estimates with two methods of outlier detection, one of them independent of population coancestry (CIOA) and the other one not (ROA), to identify genetic variants favored when ecology promotes phenotypic convergence. We analyzed genotyping-by-sequencing data from five populations of a lizard distributed over an environmentally heterogeneous range that has been changing since the split of eastern and western lineages ca. 3 mya. Overall, western lizards inhabit forest habitat and are unstriped, whereas eastern ones inhabit shrublands and are striped. However, one population (Lerma) has unstriped phenotype despite its eastern ancestry. The analysis of 73,291 SNPs confirmed the east–west division and identified nonoverlapping sets of outliers (12 identified by ROA and 9 by CIOA). ROA revealed ancestral adaptive variation in the uncovered outliers that were subject to divergent selection and differently fixed for eastern and western populations at the extremes of the environmental gradient. Interestingly, such variation was maintained in Lerma, where we found high levels of heterozygosity for ROA outliers, whereas CIOA uncovered innovative variants that were selected only there. Overall, it seems that both the maintenance of ancestral variation and asymmetric migration have counterbalanced adaptive lineage splitting in our model species. This scenario, which is likely promoted by a changing and heterogeneous environment, could hamper ecological speciation of locally adapted populations despite strong genetic structure between lineages.
Llanos-Garrido, A. & Pérez-Tris, J. & Diaz, J.A. (2021) -
Usually, adaptive phenotypic differentiation is paralleled by genetic divergence between locally adapted populations. However, adaptation can also happen in a scenario of non-significant genetic divergence due to intense gene flow and/or recent differentiation. While this phenomenon is rarely published, findings on incipient ecologically-driven divergence or isolation by adaptation are relatively common, which could confound our understanding about the frequency at which they actually occur in nature. Here, we explore genome-wide traces of divergence between two populations of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus separated by a 600 m elevational gradient. These populations seem to be differentially adapted to their environments despite showing low levels of genetic differentiation (according to previously studies of mtDNA and microsatellite data). We performed a search for outliers (i.e. loci subject to selection) trying to identify specific loci with FST statistics significantly higher than those expected on the basis of overall, genome-wide estimates of genetic divergence. We find that local phenotypic adaptation (in terms of a wide diversity of characters) was not accompanied by genome-wide differentiation, even when we maximized the chances of unveiling such differentiation at particular loci with FST-based outlier detection tests. Instead, our analyses confirmed the lack of differentiation on the basis of more than 70,000 SNPs, which is concordant with a scenario of local adaptation without any degree of isolation by environment. Our results add evidence to previous studies in which local adaptation does not lead to any kind of isolation (or early stages of ecological speciation), but maintains phenotypic divergence despite the lack of a differentiated genomic background.
Llorca, A.B. & Tortosa, F.S. & Guerrero-Casado, J. (2023) -
The Large Psammodromus (Psammodromus algirus) is a lizard that has flexible antipredator behavior, with a considerable preference for finding shelter in the leaf litter under short scrub, and which rarely uses tree trunks to escape from predators. Nevertheless, few works have studied the microhabitat uses and the antipredator behavior of this species in more simplified landscapes, such as agricultural areas. In this work, we studied the microhabitat use (where they were observed and to where they escaped) of the lizard Psammodromus algirus in two types of olive groves located in southern Spain: with herbaceous ground cover and with bare ground. We found a large number of lizards in olive trees, which were their preferred destination after fleeing behavior in both types of olive groves, although the proportion of individuals fleeing towards the trees was greater in plots with bare ground. Moreover, a large proportion of the lizards observed on the ground fled towards the olive trees, suggesting that they actively seek the trees as a place of refuge. These results suggest that the lack of suitable microhabitats proving shelter on the ground forces these terrestrial lizards to use trees, which may allow them to colonize simplified landscapes such as olive groves in which there is no alternative shelter.
Llorente Cabrera, G.A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M. A. (2005) -
Podarcis bocagei y Podarcis carbonelli son dos especies cercanas de lacértidos endémicos del oeste de la Península Ibérica, cuyas diferencias biométricas ya han sido demostradas. Sin embargo, su folidosis nunca se ha estudiado detalladamente. Hemos estudiado diversos caracteres folidóticos, habitualmente utilizados en la taxonomía de lacértidos, con el objetivo de analizar los patrones que caracterizan ambas especies y detectar aquellos que podrían emplearse para su distinción. Los resultados demuestran que ambas especies presentan diferencias significativas en varios caracteres, aunque los patrones observados varían entre los sexos. La combinación de caracteres cuantitativos y cualitativos permitió una aceptable discriminación entre P. bocagei y P. carbonelli, especialmente cuando los sexos se separaron a priori. Sin embargo, las estrechas relaciones filogenéticas entre ambas especies y su elevada variabilidad morfológica intraespecífica dificultan la selección de caracteres que podrían servir como herramientas de diagnosis en el campo.
Llorente, C. (1988) -
Llorente, G.A. & Cejudo, D. & Orrit, N. & López-Jurado, L.F. (1999) -
In the frame of the project “Recovering of the El Hierro Giant Lizard, Gallotia simonyi” (Life Program no. B4-3200/94/743)” the possibility of expanding the present range of distribution has been foreseen. The place chosen (la Dehesa) is situated in the west of El Hierro island. The vegetation is composed of Juniperus forest not much affected by human influence. Although the El Hierro Giant Lizard (Gallotia simonyi) is mainly a herbivorous species, its diet is completed by consuming preys, mainly arthropods. Monitoring throughout an annual cycle was carried out in order to evaluate in a reliable way the suitability of the area as a possible place for releasing lizards. The evolution of trophic resources (animal) was analyzed by means of monthly biocenometers. The results obtained show that the resources consumed by the natural population of El Hierro Giant Lizard are represented. Both, prey number and biomass available are scarce throughout the year but they are considered enough for fulfilling the trophic requirements of an introduced populations since they play a complementary role in its diet. On the other hand, the size classes of the arthropods present fall within the range consumed by the lacertids of such body size.
Llorente, G.A. & M.A. Carretero (2006) -
Llorente, G.A. & Montori, A. & Serra, A. (1996) -
Llorente, G.A. & Santos, X. & Carretero, M.A. & Montori, A. (1997) -
Lloyd, C. & Sainsbury, A. (2003) -
Lo Cascio, P. (2006) -
The results of a study concerning the ecology of P. raffonei at Scoglio Faraglione islet (Aeo- lian Archipelago) are given. Population density was estimated equal to 1800-3700 individuals per Ha, while the total number of lizards inhabiting the islet can estimated to be 200-400. Lizards occurring mainly on the upper part of the islet, where show a preference for the areas covered by dense vegetation, referred to the epilittoral association Senecioni bicoloris-Helichrysetum litorei. Mean body temperatures resulted 35.4 and 34.2 °C, respectively, for females and males. The pos- itive correlations found between body, air, and substrate temperatures suggest that the species is strictly influenced by environmental factors in the maintenance of own temperatures, as a typical thermoconformer. Diet is mainly based on insects, and the main bulk of prey is constituted by Coleoptera (28.2%) and Hymenoptera Formicidae (17.8%). Vegetal matter is also well repre- sented in the trophic spectrum, with a proportion of 11%. The species can be considered a troph- ic opportunist and a widely foraging predator. Predators of lizards are mainly rapresented by fal- cons, while the interactions between lizards and the Mediterranean Yellow-legged gull occurring on the islet seem to represent just a slight disturbance for this population. However, the increase of nesting gulls observed during the last years seems to be the main cause of some changes in the floristic and vegetation composition, determining the loss of the lizards’ preferred vegetation- types. In order to preserve the Aeolian Wall lizard and its habitat, Scoglio Faraglione needs urgently to be declared as actively managed and protected area, possibly with an active control of gull’s population.
Lo Cascio, P. (2008) -
Lo Cascio, P. (2010) -
Data on the field body temperatures of Chalcides ocellatus and Podarcis filfolensis from Lampione Islet (Pelagie Islands, Channel of Sicily) are presented and discussed. Both lizard species show a wide range (about 12.0 °C) between minimum and maximum. Mean body temperatures resulted rather higher in C. ocellatus (34.1 °C) than in P. filfolensis (32.8 °C), and their medians differ significantly. C. ocellatus seems to be less dependent on environmental factors and slightly more efficient than P. filfolensis as regard thermoregulation.
The Aeolian wall lizard Podarcis raffonei, strictly endemic to Aeolian Islands, where it occurs just in four relict and geographically isolated stations, has been included among the critically endangered species in the recent IUCN Red List. The abundance of its populations is estimated at 920-1380 individuals, spread over an area of approximatively 20,000 m2. Other than problems resulting from fragmentation and small size of these populations, which are reflected on their genetic structure (lack of gene flow, low genetic variability, etc.), main conservation problems include i) competition with Podarcis siculus, ii) direct or indirect human disturbance, iii) lack of legal measures to protect the species, and iv) questionable management policies concerning the protected areas and the Natura 2000 sites designated for the stations occupied by the species. After a short synthesis on the available biological and ecological information, as well as on the different level of detail concerning each population, some proposals on the conservation of the species and protection are discussed. In particular, the author highlights the need for urgent actions aimed at reintroduction of the species within its distribution range, its inclusion in the Annex to 92/43/EEC Directive, and implementation of appropriate information in the local communities regarding the conservationist and biological importance of this lizard.
Lo Cascio, P. & Biaggini, M. & Corti, C. (2014) -
The extinction of the population of Podarcis siculus from the tiny islet of Lisca Nera (Aeolian Archipelago, NE Sicily, Italy) has been generally placed between 1878 and the 1950s. However, overlooked records and an evaluation of the geographical features of the islet would indicate remarkably narrowing the time frame of the extinction, suggesting some additional hypotheses on its cause.
Lo Cascio, P. & Capula, M. (2011) -
In this paper the invertebrate fauna occurring on Scoglio Faraglione, a tiny Aeolian island (Aeolian Archipelago, NE Sicily) inhabited by a population of the critically endangered lacertid lizard Podarcis raffonei (Mertens, 1952), was censused at different seasons and the resulting data were then compared with data obtained analysing prey composition and prey abundance in the diet of the lizards occurring on the same islet. The diet of Podarcis raffonei was mainly based on insects and other arthropods. The results indicate that diet composition is not directly influenced by prey availability and temporal prey abundance, and that there is strong evidence indicating selective predation. Lizards prey upon a number of arthropod categories fewer than that recorded in field. Some invertebrate taxa (e.g. Diptera and Gastropoda) are really less attractive for lizards and are rarely preyed or not preyed at all despite their spatial and/or temporal abundance. This suggests that Podarcis raffonei is able to operate a hierarchical choice within the range of prey items constituting its prey spectrum, probably through the ability to discriminate between prey chemicals or visually oriented predation.
Lo Cascio, P. & Corti, C. (2004) -
Lo Cascio, P. & Corti, C. (2006) -
Several uninhabited islets of the Aeolian Archipelago harbour lacertid lizard populations, but only on three of these the autochtonous lizard Podarcis raffonei occurs. A detailed analysis of the relative palaeogeographical and historical features suggests that human exploitation in particular, represents on of the main causes which have influenced their present-day micro-insular distribution.
Lo Cascio, P. & Corti, C. (2008) -
Ecological investigations on the lizards of the R.N.O. and S.C.I.“Isola di Lampedusa”.The results of the investigations concerning six species of lizards occurring inthe Natural Reserve “Isola di Lampedusa” (Hemidactylus turcicus, Tarentola mauritanica, Psammodromus algirus and Chalcides ocellatus), and inother areas of the island (Podarcisfilfolensisand P. sicula) are given. T. mauritanica is the most common and widespread lizard, with population densitiesranging from 100 to 800 indi- viduals per ha on Lampedusa and 1,200 ind./ha on Isola dei Conigli. C. ocellatusoccurs mainly in fields and in the urban area(up to 600 ind./ha), while, on the main island, it results extremely rare or absent in wide areas characterized by rocky substrate. Population density was estimated around 220- 330 ind./ha for P. algirus, while the total number of lizards inhabiting the Conigli islet could be esti- mated around 600-1,200 individuals. Both introduced species, P. filfolensisand P. sicula, are still con- fined within small urban areas, where they seem to be less common than the autochthonous Sauria. Body temperature of P. algirus(mean 30.9 °C) seems to be scarcely related to environmental Saurias, while that of T. mauritanica(25.2-32.0 °C) and C. ocellatus(26.9-32.0 °C) resulted significatively relat- ed to air and soil temperatures. The diet of the studied species is mainly based on invertebrates, espe- cially insects. T. mauritanicashows a clear preference for terrestrial preys and its diet on Conigli islet includes an unusual high percentage of ants (14% of the whole preys’ spectrum). As already known for P. algirus, vegetal matter is largely consumed also by the other lizards. A partial herbivorism char- acterised the diet of T. mauritanicaon Conigli islet, as well asC. ocellatuson both islands. Despite the absence of snakes and domestic predators on the latter, the highest percentage of lizards with broken or regenerated tails was observed onConigli islet. A test on the potential predation pressure wascar- ried outusing plastiline models; the results show that the lizard-models were attackedmainlybygulls, even if this species is doubtfully considered as a effective predator of lizards.
Lo Cascio, P. & Corti, C. & Billeci, V. & Nicolini, G. (2005) -
Lo Cascio, P. & Corti, C. & Capula, M. (2011) -
Lo Cascio, P. & Corti, C. & Delaugerre, M. & Grita, F. (2010) -
Vengono forniti dati preliminari sull’ecologia di Podarcis tiliguerta dell’Isola di Lavezzu (Corsica, Francia), raccolti in giugno 2010. Il 75% e il 50% degli individui esaminati, rispettivamente di sesso maschile e femminile, presentava la coda rigenerata. La temperatura media corporea dei maschi e risultata pari a 32,2 °C, quella delle femmine pari a 31,8 °C. La dieta e risultata essere essenzialmente insettivora; le prede principali sono rappresentate da Imenotteri, Coleotteri, Isopodi e ragni; alcuni costumi alimentari tipici delle popolazioni insulari, come l’erbivorismo o la mirmecofagia, non sembrerebbero caratterizzare la dieta della popolazione studiata, almeno per quanto concerne la tarda primavera.
Lo Cascio, P. & Corti, C. & Luiselli, L. & Pérez-Mllado, V. & Capula, M. (2001) -
Lo Cascio, P. & Ficetola, G.F. (2016) -
Lo Cascio, P. & Grita, F. & Guarino, L. & Speciale, C. (2014) -
New data are given on the population size and ecology of P. raffonei occurring on La Canna stack, off Filicudi Island (Aeolian Archipelago). The estimates provided a consistency of 82.5 ± 52.5 individuals. Lizards occupy the whole surface of the stack, although they result more abundant (0.8 ind./m2) in the areas more densely covered by vegetation. The diet is based mainly on ants and other arthropods, among which marine crustaceans found in the intertidal belt, and includes a significant percentage of vegetal matter. Also, the lizards feed on the prey remains from the pellets of Eleonora’s falcon. All these traits reveal a remarkable level of adaptation to the chronic lack of resources that characterizes this micro-insular environment.
Lo Cascio, P. & Luiselli, L. & Corti, C. (2004) -
Lo Cascio, P. & Luiselli, L. & Corti, C. (2006) -
Lampione (35°33’00” N - 12°19’11” E Greenwich) is the smallest islet of the Pelagie Archipelago, with a surface of 2.10 ha and a maximum elevation of 36 m a.s.l. It is situated 17 Km off the western coast of Lampedusa Island, in the Channel of Sicily. The islet is inhabited by a population of the Maltese Wall Lizard, Podarcis filfolensis (Bedriaga 1876), which is interesting to study from an ecological point of view because of the unusual characteristics of the study area (extreme isolation and insularity, low human disturbance, etc.). This population, referred to the ssp. laurentiimuelleri (Fejérváry 1924) by Lanza & Bruzzone (1961), is characterised by an intense melanism. As expected, the population body size (SVL, mm) differed significantly among sexes and age classes, males were significantly bigger than females. Three out of five males, and one out of two females had the tail broken or regenerated. These frequencies did not differ significantly at χ2 test . A high density characterised the species on this islet, where it is syntopic with Chalcides ocellatus: 75-80 individuals of P. filfolensis per 100 m2 were counted in the upper plateau, covered by alo-nitrophilous vegetation (Salicornietea). Vegetal matters were found in 60.9% (total n = 14) of the faecal pellets examined (total n = 23), these exceeded in terms of frequency of occurrence any other food category. In particular, when we compared the frequency of occurrence of vegetal matters in specimens with known sex, it resulted that 4 out of 5 males, 2 out of 2 females, and 1 out of 2 sub- adults had eaten vegetal matters. is suggests that herbivorous habits are not exclusive of a given sex or age class, but are indeed widespread at all levels of the studied population. The rest of the dietary spectrum consists of small invertebrates (mainly Hymenoptera Formicidae, Coleoptera Tenebrionidae, and other arthropods), as usually found in the small lacertids of the Mediterranean basin.
Lo Cascio, P. & Pasta, S. (2006) -
The results of some investigations on the Podarcis wagleriana population of La Scuola Islet (Stagnone Lagoon Archipelago, W Sicily) are here presented. Adult mean SVL was 69.5 mm and 61.6 mm for males and females respectively. The analysis of faecal pellets showed that the most important prey types were Formicidae (32%), Coleoptera (15%), and other Hymenoptera (13%). The proportion of vegetal matter (occurring in 35% of the examined pellets) was higher than in Sicilian populations, suggesting that plant consumption in this micro-insular environment may play a more significant role in the diet of the species.
Lo Cascio, P. & Pasta, S. (2007) -
Lo Cascio, P. & Pasta, S. (2008) -
Lo Cascio, P. & Pasta, S. (2012) -
The papers aims at underlining the “unespected” value of Lampione’s biological heritage, as well as the fragility of its ecosystem. Despite its very little size, this islet harbours a very rich pool of plant and animal species of high biological and/or conservation interest. Special attention is paid to the biogeographic meaning of local endemics, on local extinction and turnover processes, on some ecological or biological patterns which contribute to the distinctiveness of local biota. However, further investigations are needed in order to complete the list of animals and to monitor the demographic trends of all species. In particular, it is necessary to assess if local seagull colony may represent a major threat for local diversity.
Lo Cascio, P. & Rivière, V. (2014) -
The present paper provides the results of the herpetological investigations carried out on the Kuriat Archipelago, in the Khnis Bay, and the islet of Jbel, off the harbor of Echebba. Six reptile species on the whole have been found on the studied islets. Tarentola fascicularis (Daudin, 1802), familia Phyllodactylidae, occurring on Great Kuriat, and Trachylepis vittata (Olivier, 1804), familia Scincidae, detected on all the three islets, are recorded for the first time for the islands of Tunisia.
Lo Cascio, P. & Rivière, V. (2016) -
The present paper provides the results of the herpetological investigations carried out on thesatellite islets of Djerba and the Kneiss Archipelago, and an updated list of their herpetofauna.On the whole, the faunal assemblage of the eleven visited islets includes seven species of reptiles, whose richness seems to be related to the islet size. Stenodactylus sthenodactylus (Lichtenstein, 1823) and Malpolon insignitus (Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1827) are new records, respectively, for the Djerba satellites and the Kneiss Archipelago, while new localities we rerecorded for the previously known species.
Lo Cascio, P. & Sciberras, A. (2020) -
Circum‐Sicilian and Maltese herpetofauna includes 22 species occurring with steady populations, andsome of them (Pelophylax bedriagae, Trachemys scripta, Chamaeleo chamaeleon, Hemorrhois algirus and perhapsTelescopus fallax) were introduced during the last two centuries, while for other 7 at least one introduction withinthe study islands was documented during the same span of time; furthermore, temporary occurrences were alsodetected for other 16 species (3 amphibians and 13 reptiles), some of which (Hyla sp., Graptemys pseudogeo‐graphica, Centrochelys sulcata, Pantherophis guttatus and Lampropeltis getula) have not been previously recordedfor these islands. Accidental or intentional introductions have gradually increased in recent decades and have asignificant influence in shaping these herpetofunal assemblages. On the contrary, extinction seems to be less fre‐quent and involved especially amphibians. The updated faunal inventory for 65 islands includes several new recordsand the results of the first herpetological investigations on the islets Faraglione di terra di Cala Fico, Colombaia,Vittoria Garcia (circum‐Sicilian), Pigeon Rock and Cheirolopus Rock (Maltese).
Lo Valvo, M. & Faraone, F.P. & Giacalone, G. & Lillo, F. (2018) -
Lo Valvo, M. & Faraone, F.P. & Giacalone, G. & Lillo, F. (2021) -
Atlases of fauna with distribution maps and information about biology and ecology are useful tools for the management and conservation of the species. Knowledge about distribution of the reptiles in Sicily dates back to 2006. An update of data was carried out taking also into account the systematic innovations of the last twelve years. For creating the geographic distribution maps, the UTM WGS84 cartographic system was used. At present 24 species of reptiles live and reproduce in the Sicilian territory. On the main island there are 17 species, on the minor islands the number varies from a minimum of four to a maximum of eight species. Compared to the bibliographic data, for 16 species an increase in the number of cells occupied has been recorded, with a variation between 0.3 and 81.8%, five species have not undergone variation, and for two species a decrease was recorded. The current presence of Testudo hermanni on the minor Sicilian islands is dubious or unlikely. The higher number of species compared to the previous distribution data is due to the recent confirmation of the presence of Eryx jaculus in Sicilian territory, and the presence of a new Tarentola taxon of specific rank in Lampedusa island. The decrease of Podarcis filfolensis is due to its absence from the known site in Lampedusa, while the case of Zamenis situla is due to the exclusion of data collected in some areas where there are no recent, reliable observations.
Lo Valvo, M. & Faraone, F.P. & Scifo, A. (2004) -
Lo Valvo, M. & Nicolini, G. (2001) -
Loch, G. (1907) -
Lochhaas, L. & Pogoda, P. & Kupfer, A. (2021) -
Lodewijks, J.M. (1944) -
Loehr, V. (1997) -
In both December 1992 and September 1995 I travelled through South Africa and Namibia. In the Daan Viljoen park in Windhoek Agama planiceps, Mabuya spilogaster and Pachydac- tylus bibroni were found. Pedioplanis brevi- ceps was seen in trees and bushes of the Namib Desert while in the barer valleys Pedioplanis undata undata was observed. A Chamaeleo namaquensis was seen in a small bush. Other species which were recorded were M. spilogaster and Ptenopus garrulus macula- Ius. In the Kalahari Gemsbokpark only M. spi- logaster, Agama aculeata aculeata and Pelomedusa subrufa were seen, the latter after a shower. Pedioplanis undata inomata, Mabuya sulcata, Mabuya variegata, Platysaurus capensis, Agama anchietae, Pedioplanis namaquensis, Cordylus po/yzonus and Pachydactylus bibroni were found in Fish River Canyon by the camp site. The tempera- ture can rise to 45°C over the day. The lizards seemed to go into shock when captured. In 1995 I spent a long time in Namaqualand. Here a lot of reptiles were found in a relative- ly small area. These included: Cordylus cataphractus, Cordylus polyzonus, Pediopla- nis lineocellata pulchella, Meroles suborbi- talis, Agama hispida hispida, Bitis arietans, Homopus signatus signatus and Chersina angulata. In the Mediterranean climatic zone and in the Karoo the following unusual species were recorded: Psammo- bates tentorius trimeni, Geochelone parda- lis and Pseudocordy/us capensis.
Lokasola, A.L. & Lotana, C.B. & Babangenge, G.B. & Tungaluna, C.G. (2017) -
This paper presents the composition of the lizard fauna of Maringa-Lopori-Wamba landscape in the western portion of the central Congo basin in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its weak similarity with the lizard fauna of Gaboon and Ituri faunal areas. It also fills a gap of knowledge in a region where no previous research on Sauria has been undertaken and signals the presence of Leptosiaphos hylophilus and Lygodactylus n. sp. The paper mentions the finding of a subspecies of Gastropholis echinata. These data are important since collected for the first time in a spot where no herpetological research on lizards has previously been undertaken.
Lončar, M. (2005) -
Londono, C. & Bartolome, A. & Carazo, P. & E. Font (2018) -
Environmental enrichment has proven to be a useful and effective welfare tool in order to evaluate and enhance the well‐being of captive animals, but only when it is based on detailed knowledge of each species` natural behaviour. Chemoreception is fundamental to many aspects of reptilian biology; however, sensory enrichment with chemical stimuli has rarely been applied to reptiles. In this study, we evaluate the use of chemosensory enrichment as a method to enhance the welfare of Podarcis liolepis. For seven weeks, we exposed field‐caught males to scents from donor conspecific males collected on pieces of filter paper (i.e., “enriched” group, n = 18), and compared their behaviour to that of control males provided with unscented pieces of filter paper (n = 18). We measured the occurrence of normal (e.g., locomotion) and abnormal (escape attempts) behaviours each day for three weeks. In addition, we conducted two exploration tests and a visual barrier test. Compared to controls, enriched lizards showed a consistent long‐term decrease (29%–38%) in the occurrence of escape attempts. During exploration tests, enriched lizards spent less time performing escape attempts and devoted more time to perching than controls. As expected, both control and enriched lizards showed a reduction of time in locomotion and an increase in the time spent perching between the first and second exploration test, but these changes were significantly more pronounced for enriched animals. Taken together, our results suggest improved welfare of enriched animals, as they spent less time engaging in abnormal behaviours, more time in normal behaviours, and showed signs of faster habituation to a novel environment. Chemosensory enrichment is a relatively simple enrichment strategy that could potentially be applied to improve the welfare of a wide range of captive lizards, and reptiles at large.
Long-Ying W. (2007) -
In order to get the information about the population structure of lizards,107 lizards are trapped from the outskirts of Lanzhou in Gansu province.There are 52 E.argus and 55 P.frontalis respectively.The population density of E.argus is 129/hm2 and P.frontalis is 100/hm2.Every population is divided into two classes(the submature class and the mature class).For E.argus the average of SVL is 34.2 mm of the submature class and that of the mature class is 54.5 mm.For P.frontalis the average of SVL is 35.4 of the submature class,and that for the mature class is 57.9 mm.The sex ratio(♀:♂) of the population is 1∶1.07 for E.argus and 1∶0.94 for P.frontalis,so they are close to 1∶1.The results show that the two populations can live in one and the same area.Eremias argus wakes earlier than Phrynocephalus frontalis.The body temperature of lizards is influenced by the ambient temperature of the environment and their physiology can be maintained by their behaviors.
Lönnberg, E. (1907) -
Löns, H. (1907) -
Loos, J. & Dayan, T. & Drescher, N. & Levanony, T. & Maza, E. & Shacham, B. & Talbi, R. & Assmann, T. (2011) -
The Levant Green Lizard, Lacerta media israelica (Peters, 1964), is a rare and declining lizard species that is classified as regionally vulnerable in Israel and Lebanon. We found information about historical observations of this species at 42 different locations. During field work at these and 12 additional locations between March and July 2009, we found 35 individuals at 21 different sites. Sixty-six percent of formerly inhabited places appeared not to be inhabited by the species anymore. L. media israelica inhabited heterogeneous plots, with an average of 30% herbaceous and shrub layer, moderate slope angle and a high proportion of woodland cover. Most observations occurred at the margins of anthropogenic installations and near woodland sites, such as fruit plantations, car parks, trails and traditional pasture landscape. To conserve populations of the Levant Green Lizard, it will be important to maintain landscape heterogeneity, including extensively used semi-open shrubland areas (such as local garigue or ‘batha’) for the protection of this species.
Loos, K. (1913) -
Loos, W. (2003) -
Looyen, J. van (1986) -
Lopes Pinho, C. (2021) -
Identifying species is an important task in biology, medicine, pharmacology, agriculture and biodiversity conservation. Modern taxonomy, the discipline devoted to the description and identification of species, faces a decrease in its workforce while dealing with the challenge of describing the Earth’s vanishing biodiversity. In this context, automated identification of species becomes of major importance. Automated image identification is a thriving field of machine learning, with deep learning algorithms based on convolutional neural networks revolutionizing the field in recent years. These methods are also taking their first steps in the identification of images of biological taxa in a variety of different contexts and taxonomic scopes. In this work, we took a deep learning approach to classify images of Iberian and North African wall lizards, a group of cryptic species in which identification requires expert intervention. We addressed two problems: 1) a two-class problem focusing on the distinction between two species, Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis lusitanicus and 2) a nine-class problem involving all the species currently described in the group. Three different deep learning architectures were tested in both cases. In the two-class problem, classification success was high, reaching as high as 97.1% and 95.9% for ensemble models applied to male and female lizards, respectively. Classification in the nine-class problem was not as successful, highlighting the difficulties inherent to this group of cryptic species. However, results improved when predictions from different perspectives were combined, reaching 95.3% and 89.7% for males and females, respectively. These results suggest the utility of deep learning algorithms in the identification of cryptic species, providing promising resources in the taxonomical, evolutionary and conservation research.
Lopes, S. (2014) -
Geological and paleoclimatic events are two main forces driving evolutionary processes in nature. These are poorly studied phenomena in North Africa, despite its great diversity of habitats, heterogeneous landscapes, and complex climatic and geological histories. Modern biodiversity patterns of the Sahara and the adjacent arid Sahel likely resulted from strong oscillations in climate and land-cover. Acanthodactylus scutellatus species group comprises important elements of the herpetofauna of arid ecosystems in North Africa, and well adapted to xeric conditions. Despite their remarkable diversity, the taxonomy within the complex is controversial, and with the exception of morphological data, little is known about these organisms. Observations of morphologically intermediate individuals in sympatry areas suggested hybridization between taxa. The present study aims to infer: 1) phylogenetic relationships within this group and identify major lineages; and 2) contemporary gene flow in a contact zone in Mauritania. Phylogenetic analyses were based on 466 specimens that were sequenced for both 12S and Cyt-b mitochondrial genes (756 total bp), and for the C-mos nuclear gene (513 total bp). A total of 208 individuals of the contact zone were genotyped for 15 microsatellites. Our results show that recovered major lineages do not match with current systematics, suggesting that taxonomy and systematics need revision. Genotyping analyses confirmedthe historical lineages found in thestudied contact zone and show absence of gene flow between them, with no hybrids detected despite the large sampling and broad geographic coverage. Lack of observed gene flow raises questions aboutthe putative role ofreproductive barriersandhabitatselectionin preventing admixture. Finally, the molecular tools applied allowed for insights on the species boundaries, relationships, history and diversity of this group, in addition to contributing to the knowledge about gene flow in the Sahara-Sahel.
Lopes, S. & Velo-Antón, G. & Lima, V.A. & Pereira, O. & Tamar, K. & Carranza, S. & Crochet, P.A. & Godinho, R. & Brito, J.C. (2014) -
Lopes, S.C. & Velo-Antón, G. & Pereira, P. & Lopes, S. & Godinho, R. & Crochet, P.-A. & Brito, J.C. (2015) -
Background: Spiny-footed lizards constitute a diverse but scarcely studied genus. Microsatellite markers would help increasing the knowledge about species boundaries, patterns of genetic diversity and structure, and gene flow dynamics. We developed a set of 22 polymorphic microsatellite loci for cross-species amplification in three taxa belonging to the Acanthodactylus scutellatus species group, A. aureus, A. dumerili/A. senegalensis and A. longipes, and tested the same markers in two other members of the group, A. scutellatus and A. taghitensis. Results: Ampliications in A. aureus, A. longipes and A. dumerili/A. senegalensis were successful, with markers exhibiting a number of alleles varying between 1 and 19. Expected and observed heterozygosity ranged, respectively, between 0.046–0.893 and 0.048–1.000. Moreover, 17 and 16 loci were successfully amplified in A. scutellatus and A. taghitensis, respectively. Conclusion: These markers are provided as reliable genetic tools to use in future evolutionary, behavioural and conservation studies involving species from the A. scutellatus group.
López Aizpuru, J. (2016) -
The urbanization process causes deep changes in the functioning of ecosystems, and has a negative effect on urban-wildlife’s health. Moreover, cities represent an important point of entry for exotic species, which can originate ecological problems. Reptile and amphibian populations have decreased in the last decades, and they can be used as environmental index because of their distribution along urban-natural gradients and their limited dispersal ability. In this study, an inventory of reptiles and amphibians was made in the city of Bilbao and later urban impact was determined by measuring the health status (immune response and parasite load) in 4 wall-lizard (Podarcis muralis) populations captured along an urban-natural gradient. Results showed a higher number of exotic herp species compared to native species in the city. We found that immune response increased as urbanization degree decreased. Finally, parasite load was higher in individuals from natural-deteriorated population.
López de Carrión, M. & Díaz, M. & Carbonell, R. & Bonal, R. (2006) -
López Montero, G. (2023) -
López Redondo, J. (1992) -
Lopez Seoane, V. (1885) -
López-Darias, M. & López-González, M. & Padilla, D.P. & Martin-Carbajal, J. & Piquet, J.C. (2024) -
Despite the pernicious impacts that invasive black rats Rattus rattus have on island ecosystems, little is known about their effect upon insular reptiles, which are a highly vulnerable but pivotal element of island biota. To bring to light these effects, we evaluated the threat posed by R. rattus on the critically endangered Canarian spotted lizard Gallotia intermedia by analyzing its frequency of occurrence on rat feces, estimating rat abundance and density, and correlating these parameters with previous lizard censuses. We genetically detected that 14.96% of all rat feces contained G. intermedia, with 27.27% of individual R. rattus consuming this lizard. Rat density varied from 0.740±0.474 to 2.183±1.137 rats/ha and was correlated with larger declines of G. intermedia between past censuses and those of 2019. These results confirm for the first time that R. rattus consumes and impacts this endemic and endangered lizard species. From a broader perspective, this is one of the first studies detecting rat impact on a large-sized reptile, which calls for further attention to the interaction between invasive rats and a highly vulnerable but essential component of island ecosystems.
Lopez-Darias, M. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Cornette, R. & Herrel, A. (2015) -
1. Males and females often differ from one another in phenotypic traits due to differential investment in traits relevant to the fitness of each sex. However, how differences in sexually dimorphic traits affect ecologically relevant performance traits and whether these are correlated with variation in ecology remains poorly understood. 2. Here, we test the co-evolution of head shape, bite force capacity and diet in male and female lizards (Gallotia) from the Canary Islands, known to be sexually dimorphic. We collected data on bite force and head size and shape for both sexes of all seven extant species on all seven islands of the archipelago (ten evolutionary-independent lineages). Moreover, we collected diet data for five out of the seven species (eight lineages). 3. Our results show that the evolution of head morphology is associated with the evolution of bite force in both sexes. However, only in females is the evolution of head morphology and bite force associated with the evolution of diet. In males, head morphology and bite force are decoupled from the evolution of diet. In conjunction with the male head shape characterized by a broad rostrum, this suggests that head shape and bite force may be evolving principally under sexual selection in males. 4. Our data thus suggest that head morphology and associated functional traits may evolve under different selective pressures in the two sexes.
López-Darías, M. et al. (2023) -
The California kingsnake Lampropeltis californiae was detected in Gran Canaria in 1998, time since when numerous resources have been allocated to control this invasion. In recent years, the approval of the Strategic Plan of Action in the Fight against the California kingsnake in the Canary Islands 20192022 as well as other lines of private funding, basic and applied research has been boosted, in a framework of close collaboration between researchers and competent administrations, allowing to accumulate ecological information that aims to strengthen management actions. The aim of this presentation is to summarize the scientific actions carried out and their main results. First, we describe the impact of the snake invasion on the abundance of the three endemic reptile species of the island, the subsequent trophic cascade and the evolutionary impacts detected in these saurian species. Second, we summarize the accumulated knowledge on the phenology and movement ecology of the species, their habitat selection and prey preference, and how this information can help guide management. Third, we review the most relevant results of a set of objectives addressed to directly inform the management of this invasion (eDNA use, biosecurity, trap selectivity, assessment of control method effectiveness, etc.), as well as summarize the objectives to be addressed in the medium to long term. From a more global context, we present a useful model to strengthen the science- management interface, so necessary to support and optimize invasive alien species management.
López-Dos Santos, N. & López-Jurado, L.F. & Hernández-Penate, A. & Mateo, J.A. (2013) -
López-Garcia, C. & Molowmy, A. & Pérez-Clausell, J. (1983) -
López-Jurado, L.F. (1981) -
López-Jurado, L.F. (1985) -
López-Jurado, L.F. (1989) -
López-Jurado, L.F. (1992) -
Lopez-Jurado, L.F. (1998) -
López-Jurado, L.F. (1999) -
López-Jurado, L.F. & Cano, J. & Báez, M. (1986) -
A karyological analysis on lizards of the Canary Islands Gallotia simonyi and G. atlantica ssp., resulted inboth cases ina formula of 2n = 40 (38.1 + 2 m; NF = 40); what, besides the results in Gallotia galloti, defines the genus Gallotia (Lacertidae) endemic of the Canary Islands as a monophyetic unit. Considering the ancestral characteristic demonstrated in several species of this genus by different authors such ads some morphological aspects (the hemipenis) as well as ethological aspects (copulatory ritual), it pointed out the important coincidence of the karyotype of these species and its relictual character. The similarities with Lacerta jayakari of Oman, are commended taking into consideration the botanical connections between the Canary Islands and south-eastern Arabia.
López-Jurado, L.F. & Cano, J. & Baez, M. (1996) -
López-Jurado, L.F. & Garcia-Márquez, M. & Mateo, J.A. (1999) -
Paleontological and archaeological evidences coming from 39 sites of El Hierro (Canary Islands) show that the herbivorous, bog sized and endangered G. simonyi (Lacertidae) was formerly tied to the xeric and thermophyllic ecosystems all around the island. Sadly for conservation concerns, most of this landscape has been strongly perturbed by man. 14C dating revealed that in currently well preserved habitats of this kind at La Dehesa, some populations faded out not before the 19th century. The taphonomical traits of many subfossil findings strongly suggest for feral cats (probably) introduced after the resenzi conquest) playing a role in these extinctions. Except for the occurrence of cats (which also threaten the small wild population), La Dehesa juniper scrubland/woodland appears as a priority place for the reintroduction of captive bred lizards.
López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J.A. (1992) -
The morphological and genetic differences between populations of Canarian lizards on four islands were analysed in relation to two ecological systems: the laurisilva forest and the young volcanic ecosystems or ‘malpaises’. The two ecosystems induce two different evolutionary responses by lizard populations; morphological and genetic modifications are intense in the case of a very old ecosystem like laurisilva whereas in the young volcanic ecosystems, morphological modifications are much more pronounced although the temporary nature of the ecosystem is limiting from point of view of speciation.
López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J.A. (1995) -
The Canary Island lizards constitute a monophyletic group which separated from the rest of the family shortly after the first islands of the archipelago emerged. Five living and at least one recently extinct species belong to the genus Gallotia. In addition, two of the living species, Gallotia simonyi and Gallotia stehlini have become extinct on Gomera and Tenerife, respectively. Juveniles of all species present tricuspid teeth. This character is preserved in the adults with changes to one degree or another in G. galloti, G. caesaris, G. simonyi and G. goliath. In G. atlantica there are only two cuspids and G. stehlini has 4 or more. It has been confirmed that in current species there is a direct relationship between the num,ber of cuspids in the adults and the extent to which they are herbivorous. The number and arrangement of teeth on the pterigoides also presents some differences in terms of species: only one row in G. atlantiva, G. galloiti, G. caesaris, G. stehlini, G. goliath from La Gomera and the smaller G. simonyi. Gallotia goliath on other islands and the larger G. simonyi specimens present a lot of teeth in two rows. A model is suggested according to which the phenomenon of gigantism in these lizards is related to favourable environments of recent volcanic origin, while the extinction of large species is associated with selective predation on the larger breeders by Mnan and by domestic animals.
López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J.A. (1996) -
López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J.A. (1997) -
López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J.A. (1999) -
López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J.A. & Geniez, P. (1995) -
López-Jurado, L.F. & Mateo, J.A. & Guillaume, C.P. (1997) -
Comparison of genetic variability between ten populations of Canarian lizards (Gallotia galloti complex) sampled on four islands, shows the existence of two well differentiated lineages. The first one groups the populations from the islands of Hierro and Gomera (G. caesaris) and the second those from the islands of Tenerife and La Palma (G. gallotia s. str.). The analysis of allelic frequencies, the projection of the individuals on the two princepal axes of factorial analysis of correspondences, and the very low viability of offspring support the idea of a differenciation at the specific level between the two lineages (Gallotia galloti s. str. and G. caesaris) and the validity of at least one subspecific taxon per island.
López-Orge, H. & González-Lama, Z. & Garcia-Rodriguez, T.& Pérez-Silva, J. (1980) -
Lopez, A. (1934) -
Lopez, A. & Bons, J. (1981) -
Lopez, J. & Echevarria, M. & Vasquez, J.J. (1988) -
The endocrine pancreas of the lizard Podarcis hispanica is described using light and electron microscopy. The endocrine pancreas of this reptile is located throughout the spleen side of the organ and consists of islet-like structures, small groups of two to five cells, and single scattered endocrine cells. The endocrine cells, including the islet-like structures, are not discrete units; on the contrary, they are intermingled with the endocrine component, both forming the glandular units. The endocrine islet-like structure shows a peculiar pseudoacinar pattern. The tridimensional reconstruction allows us to recognize the true structure of the glandular units. They are made up of two or three tubules closely arranged around a blood vessel, the endocrine component being disposed in the facing aspects of the tubules, around the vessel. Silver methods, Giemsa, and peroxidase-antiperoxidase techniques for light microscopy, immunogold, and routine methods for electron microscopy were used to demonstrate the regulatory peptide-producing cells present in the endocrine pancreas. Four major pancreatic endocrine cells, immunolocalized with the light and electron microscope, have been described: glucagon-containing cells (granules of 440 nm in diameter), insulin cells (400 nm), somatostatin cells (610 nm), and pancreatic polypeptide-containing cells (460 nm).
López, P. & Martin, J. (2002) -
Trade-offs between reproduction and survival are important determinants of life-history characteristics of lizards. Organisms cannot increase the allocation of limited resources to reproduction without diverting a proportional amount of energy from another trait. Locomotor performance is an ecologically relevant trait that potentially influences survival by affecting the ability to escape from predators. Most studies have used female lizards as subjects because pregnancy is known to reduce their locomotor abilities, whereas little is known on costs of reproduction in males. In this study we suggest that in males of the lizard Lacerta monticola reproductive investment in morphological traits that confer dominance (i.e. head size) might lead to a low probability of survival by decreasing investment in other traits that affect locomotor performance (i.e. limb symmetry). We staged laboratory agonistic encounters between males and measured their morphology and burst speed on a race track to examine possible relationships between morphology, social dominance and locomotor capacity. Our results indicate that social dominance was positively related to relative head height, and that escape speed was negatively related to levels of fluctuating asymmetry in femur length, but also negatively related to relative head height. Males with greater relative head height also had more asymmetrical femurs, thus dominant males suffered a decrease in locomotor performance. Males with higher heads tend to dominate male–male interactions and hence may gain access to reproductive females, thus increasing their current reproduction success. However, this might occur at the expense of future survivorship mediated by a decrease in escape speed. Therefore, in male L. monticola there might be a trade-off between current reproductive success and survival.
López, P. & Martin, J. (2005) -
Although chemoreception plays an important role in social organization of many lizards, only a few studies have examined the chemicals found in secretions used for intraspecific communication. We report the composition of the secretion of the femoral glands of males of the Spiny-footed lizard (Acanthodactylus erythrurus). On the basis of mass spectra, obtained by GC/MS, we identified 45 lipophilic compounds, including several alcohols ranging from 10 to 29 carbon atoms (mainly hexacosanol and tetracosanol), steroids (mainly cholesterol and dehydrocholesterol), n-C9 to n-C20 carboxylic acids, esters wolf carboxylic acid, and minor components such as lactones, ketones, squalene and a-tocopherol. Some of these compounds are reported for the first time in lizards. Adult and subadult males differed in the composition of secretions, with C9 to C15 carboxylic acids being more abundant in younger than in older lizards, whereas C16 to C20 carboxylic acids were more abundant in older lizards. Also older lizards had significant lower proportions of cholesterol and campesterol but higher proportions of dehydrocholesterol.
López, P. & Amo, L. & Martin, J. (2006) -
In spite of the importance of chemoreception in social organization and sexual selection of lizards, there is a lack of general knowledge on how the characteristics of chemical signals mediate these behaviors. Moreover, it is unknown which are the mechanisms that might confer honesty to the information provided by chemical signals. We analyzed here whether characteristics of the lipophilic fraction of femoral gland secretions of Lacerta monticola male lizards can be related to the morphology, physical condition, and health state of the sender. Our results indicated that some male traits, such as body size, number of blue spots, and number of femoral pores and their level of fluctuating asymmetry, were related to variability in the relative proportions of some lipophilic chemical compounds found in secretions. Thus, conspecifics could obtain reliable information on the producer of a scent mark based on chemicals alone, and this might be the basis of female choice observed in this lizard. Moreover, only males with a greater T-cell immune response had higher proportions of two steroids (ergosterol and dehydrocholesterol) in their femoral secretions, which might suggest that the signal is honest and costly to produce. We suggest that only high-quality males could divert these compounds from metabolism to secretions in order to produce an exaggerated and honest `chemical ornament.`
López, P. & Aragón, P. & Martin, J. (1998) -
López, P. & Aragón, P. & Martin, J. (2003) -
Female mate choice based on visual traits appears to be rare in lizards. Field observations suggest that females of the lizard Lacerta monticola preferred to mate with larger/older males. Although older males are usually green and larger, and younger males brown and smaller, there is some overlap in size and coloration between age classes. Thus, visual cues may not always be reliable indicators of a male`s age. We hypothesized that female mate-choice preferences may be based on males` pheromones, which might transmit information about characteristics such as age. In a laboratory experiment, we analyzed the effect of age of males on attractiveness of their scents to females. When we offered scents of two males of different age, females associated preferentially with scents of older males. This suggested that females were able to assess the age of males by chemical signals alone, and that females preferred to be in areas scent-marked by older males. Thus, females may increase their opportunities to mate with males of high quality, or may avoid harassment by sneaking young males. This result agreed with field observations on females mating with old males, and rejection of advances by young males. Our results also suggested that female preference for older males may depend on their own body size. Large females showed a strong preference for older males, whereas smaller females were not so selective. This, together with males` preference for large females, might lead to size-assortative matings. We suggest that the quality and/or quantity of male pheromones could communicate to the female heritable male genetic quality (i.e. age) and thereby serve as the basis of adaptive female choice in lizards.
López, P. & Gabriot, M. & Martin, J. (2009) -
Many animals use chemical signals in sexual selection, but it is not clear how these sexual traits might have evolved to signal honestly male condition. It is possible that there is a trade-off between maintaining the immune system and the elaboration of ornaments. We experimentally challenged the immune system of male Iberian wall lizards, Podarcis hispanica, with a bacterial antigen (lipopolysaccharide), without pathogenic effects, to explore whether the immune activation affected chemical ornaments. Immune activation resulted in decreased proportions of a major chemical in femoral secretions (cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol = provitamin D3) known to be selected in scent of males by females and which active form (vitamin D) has a variety of important effects on immune system function. This result suggests the existence of a potential trade-off between physiological regulation of the immune system and the allocation of essential nutrients (vitamins) to sexual chemical ornaments in male lizards.
Sexual signals can be evolutionarily stable if they are honest and condition dependent or costly to the signaler. One possible cost is the existence of a trade-off between maintaining the immune system and the elaboration of ornaments. We experimentally challenged the immune system of male Iberian wall lizards, Podarcis hispanica, with a bacterial antigen (lipopolysaccharide) without pathogenic effects to explore whether the immune activation affected sexually dimorphic visual ornaments. Ventrolateral coloration changed in all males, but immune activation affected some characteristics of coloration of experimental males (i.e., challenged males failed to increase brightness and medium wavelengths over time as control males did, and the proportion of yellow pigments decreased after the immune activation) but not others (i.e., proportion of blue, green and red pigments changed equally in all males). Results suggested the existence of a trade-off between physiological regulation of the immune system and the allocation of essential compounds (probably carotenoids) to sexual ornaments. We suggest that this trade-off may allow one to honestly signal individual male quality via characteristics of coloration in lizards, which may have an important role in both intra- and intersexual selection processes.
López, P. & Hawlena, D. & Polo, V. & Amo, L. & Martin, J. (2005) -
Individual animals from the same population, sex, age and reproductive status often respond differently and consistently to predators. One important dimension of this behavioural variation is the shy–bold continuum. Innate differences in boldness might explain why individuals differ in their antipredator behaviour. In a laboratory experiment, we examined the sources of individual variation in antipredator behaviour of adult male lizards Lacerta monticola. We simulated in the laboratory repeated predatory attacks of low or high risk and analysed activity levels and refuge use in both situations. Multivariate analyses suggested the existence of two consistent and independent shy–bold continua. The first described a gradient from bold lizards that spent shorter times in the refuge after predatory approaches to shy lizards with longer emergence times, whereas the other described a gradient from bold lizards with a low propensity to hide when the predator was close but risk was low to shy lizards that hid more often. We analysed whether morphological characteristics, body condition and health (estimated from their T cell immunocompetence) of individuals might account for the differences observed. Bold individuals had smaller absolute body size, but relatively larger heads, better body condition and better health. Bold individuals with a low propensity to hide when risk was low had larger absolute body sizes, whereas relative head size, and body condition and health were not important. We suggest that the position of an individual in the shy–bold continua might reflect its optimal antipredator behaviour, which would be a function of its health, general quality and ability to evade predators.
López, P. & Luque-Larena, J.J. & Martin, J. (2003) -
López, P. & Martin, J. (2001) -
he establishment of fighting rules and the ability to recognise individual conspecifics and to assess their fighting ability and/or roles may help to reduce costs of fighting. We staged encounters between males of the lizard Podarcis hispanica to examine whether lizards used fighting strategies and whether a previous agonistic experience affects the outcome and characteristics of a subsequent encounter. The results showed that simple rules such as body size differences and residence condition were used to determine the outcome of agonistic interactions as quickly as possible. Thus, larger males were dominant in most encounters. However, when size differences between opponents are smaller, they may be more difficult to estimate and, then, residence condition was more important. In addition, the intensity of interactions between males could be explained according to the ”sequential assessment game”, supporting the idea that P. hispanica males acquire information about fighting ability gradually during the progress of a fight. Our results also showed that the second fight of the same pair of males was less aggressive, even when its outcome was the opposite of the first. This result suggests that male P. hispanica can recognise individual opponents and that they use this information to reach a contest outcome more quickly, thus reducing unnecessary aggression levels in subsequent interactions. These fighting strategies and assessment mechanisms may help to stabilise the social system of this lizard.
In an agonistic interaction, the assessment of the probable outcome of future encounters with the same individuals may be the best way of decreasing costs of fighting, but this may only be accomplished if animals are able to recognize individual conspecifics. We staged encounters between male lizards, Podarcis hispanica, to examine whether odoriferous cues are involved in rival recognition during agonistic interactions. We experimentally manipulated the odour of intruding males, creating familiar males with their own odour or bearing odours of unfamiliar males, and unfamiliar males bearing unfamiliar odours or odours of familiar males. The results showed that when familiar males were impregnated with scents from unfamiliar males, they elicited an aggressive response by resident unmanipulated males similar to that observed for a new unfamiliar male with unfamiliar odour. This suggests that resident males were unable to recognize familiar males when their own scents were removed. In contrast, responding males were less aggressive towards familiar males impregnated with their own odour and towards unfamiliar males impregnated with scents of familiar males, suggesting that when two males have already interacted, their scents become familiar for both males, and that the detection in successive encounters of the familiar scent suffices to reduce the aggressive response of territorial males. Therefore, recognition mechanisms based on chemical cues during agonistic encounters may contribute to reducing the intensity and the costs of fighting in P. hispanica and may play an important role in the organization of their social system.
López, P. & Martín, J. (2005) -
In spite of the importance of chemoreception and chemical signals in the social organization of lizards, there are only a few studies examining the chemical composition of secretions of lizards used for scent marking. The secretion of the femoral glands of male Iberian rock lizards (Lacerta monticola cyreni) contains 44 lipophilic compounds, including several steroids (mainly cholesterol), and n-C6 to n-C22 carboxylic acids, and minor components such as esters of carboxylic acids, alcohols, squalene, and one lactone. These compounds were identified on the basis of mass spectra, obtained by GC-MS. Most lipids were detected in all individuals, although relative proportions of each chemical show a high interindividual variability. This variability might be related to the characteristics or physical and health condition of males and might be the basis of female choice based on chemical cues observed in this lizard species.
In spite of the importance of chemoreception in sexual selection of lizards, only a few studies have examined the composition of chemical signals, and it is unknown whether and how chemicals provide honest information. Chemical signals might be honest if there were a trade-off between sexual advertisement and the immune system. Here, we show that proportions of cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol in femoral secretions of male Iberian wall lizards (Podarcis hispanica) were related to their T-cell-mediated immune response. Thus, only males with a good immune system may allocate higher amounts of this chemical to signalling. Furthermore, females selected scents of males with higher proportions of cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol and lower proportions of cholesterol. Thus, females might base their mate choice on the males` quality as indicated by the composition of their chemical signals.
López, P. & Martín, J. (2006) -
In spite of the importance of chemoreception and chemical signals in social organization of lizards, only a few studies have examined the chemical composition of secretions that lizards use for intraspecific communication. The secretion of the femoral glands of male Schreiber`s green lizards (Lacerta schreiberi) contains 51 lipophilic compounds, including several steroids, α-tocopherol, n-C9 to n-C22 carboxylic acids and their esteres, and minor components such as alcohols between C12 and C24, two lactones, two ketones, and squalene. These compounds were identified on the basis of mass spectra, obtained by GC-MS. We compared these chemicals with those found in other lizard species, and discussed how environmental conditions could explain the differential presence of chemicals in different lizards. Particularly, the high abundance of α-tocopherol in this lizard is suggested to contribute to avoid oxidation of other lipids in secretions, increasing chemical stability of scent marks in the humid conditions of its habitat.
López, P. & Martin, J. (2006) -
López, P. & Martín, J. (2009) -
Many lizards produce chemical secretions that may be used as pheromones in reproductive behavior, but only a few studies have identified chemical compounds in secretions. By using GC–MS, we found only 20 lipophilic compounds in femoral glands secretion of male lizards, Psammodromus hispanicus. Main compounds were six steroids (mainly cholesterol and campesterol) and seven n-C9 to n-C18 carboxylic acids (especially dodecanoic acid), and minor components were six alcohols between C16 and C29 and squalene. We compared these chemicals with those previously found in secretions of the closely related sister species Psammodromus algirus and other lizard species.
Lopez, P. & Martin, J. (2011) -
Animals should adopt strategies to minimize the costs of intraspecific aggressive interactions. For example, individuals should be able to identify resource holders in advance and avoid fighting with them because residents are generally more likely than intruders escalate aggression. It has been suggested that scent marks function mainly to allow competitor assessment by conveying the costs of entering a scent-marked area. Individuals may identify territory owners by comparing the scent of substrate marks with the scent of any conspecific they encounter nearby, assessing whether these two scents match or not, a mechanism known as scent matching. Here, we examined the response of male Iberolacerta cyreni lizards to areas scent-marked by other males and the potential role of scent matching in agonistic interactions. We designed a labora- tory experiment where we allowed a male to explore the scent-marked substrate of another male, and then we immediately staged agonistic encounters in a nearby clean neutral area with either the male that had produced the scent marks (matching treatment) or with a different non- matching individual male. The higher chemosensory exploratory rates of substrate scent marks in comparison to clean substrates suggested that males detected and spent more time exploring scent marks to obtain information on the donor male. Moreover, this information was later used to decide the fighting strategy. Intruding males delayed time until the first agonistic interaction, reduced the intensity of fights and the number of aggressive interactions, and won less interactions with males which scent matched that of scent marks (because they would be considered as the territory owners) than with other non-matching individuals. Our results show that male I. cyreni lizards use scent matching as a mechanism to assess the ownership status of other males, which could contribute to modulate intrasexual aggression, reducing costs of agonistic interactions.
López, P. & Martín, J. (2012) -
Multiple sexual signals may convey information on males’ quality. However, most research focused on visual signals, ignoring chemical signals. In vertebrates, chemical signals are probably often a multicomponent mixture of several active compounds, but they are not well known. We examined the potential additive and interactive effects of 2 compounds (oleic acid and ergosterol) naturally found in femoral gland secretions of male rock lizards on chemosensory exploration behavior of females. Tongue-flick (TF) rates of females to male secretions may result from the combination of responses to multiple compounds. There may be an additive or synergetic effect because male secretions with the highest proportions of both compounds received the highest TF rates, suggesting that their scents were more intriguing. However, there might be an interactive effect too; female TF rates were higher to males’ scent with high proportions of ergosterol alone, even if proportions of oleic acid were low, than to high proportions of oleic acid but with low proportions of ergosterol. Further bioassays testing TF behavior of females to standard compounds, presented alone or combined in different concentrations confirmed these findings. Variations in female TF behavior might be explained because different compounds signal different male traits of different importance for females. Our study suggested that femoral secretion of male rock lizards may act as a multicomponent chemical signal.
López, P. & Martin, J. (2013) -
Animals should be able to adjust their behavior by tracking changes in predation risk level continuously. Many animals show a pattern of intermittent locomotion with short pauses that may increase detection and vigilance of predators. These locomotor patterns may depend on the microhabitat structure, which affect predation risk levels. We examined in detail in the laboratory the characteristics of spontaneous locomotion, scanning behavior, and the escape performance of Psammodromus algirus lizards moving in two different microhabitats (leaf litter patches and open sand areas). Results showed that in leaf litter, lizards moved at slower speed and had shorter bursts of locomotion both in distance and duration, than in sand substrates. This locomotor pattern allowed lizards to increase scanning rate and total time spent in vigilance behavior. When lizards were forced to flee, they escaped to longer distances and during more time in open sand areas, but lizards were able to attain similar escape speed in the two substrates. Lizards may be able to compensate the cost of moving between different microhabitats with different predation risk by behaviorally changing their locomotor and vigilance patterns. However, complex interactions between the visibility of lizards to predators and the ability of lizards to detect predators, together with the need of attending simultaneously to other conflicting demands, may lead to apparently non-intuitive solutions in locomotor patterns and the rate of vigilance behavior.
López, P. & Martin, J. (2014) -
López, P. & Martin, J. & Cuadrado, M. (2003) -
Males of many species of lizards show conspicuous breeding colors but, in some species, young competitively inferior males conceal their sexual identity by a female-like dull coloration that allows them to evade aggression from dominant males and to adopt an alternative satellite-sneaking mating tactic. However, large males of the lizard Psammodromus algirus reacted aggressively to young intruder males despite their female-like coloration, suggesting that they might have the ability to recognize competitor males by chemosensory cues. We experimentally manipulated the head coloration (brown vs orange) and scents (male vs female) of small young males. For staged agonistic encounters, we compared the response of resident unmanipulated large males to the different manipulated small males. When we manipulated only the color of small males, the response of resident large males was independent of the paint manipulation; brown and orange males elicited a similar aggressive response. However, when we also manipulated the scent, small males painted orange or brown, but bearing the scent of males, received a significantly higher number of aggressive responses than small males painted orange or brown, but bearing the scent of females. The results showed that, at close range, the reaction of large males to manipulated individuals was dependent on the scent, whereas color seemed to be less important. Coloration may be, however, more important in long-distance communication as shown by the outcome of the first encounters. Also, orange coloration may increase the intensity of the aggressive response. Effective sex recognition by territorial large males is important in natural situations to avoid sneak matings by young male competitors. Thus, even if small males visually conceal their sexual identity, chemosensory cues allow large males to identify them at close range.
López, P. & Martin, J. & Cuadrado, M. (2004) -
Vertebrate males often show breeding colours that may function as reliable signals of status in intrasexual competition. In many lacertid lizards, males show a conspicuous row of small but distinctive blue spots that runs along their body side on the outer margin of the belly. However, no study has examined the role of these blue spots. We first analysed in a field population of the Iberian rock lizard, Lacerta monticola, the relationships between number of blue spots and some morphological traits, which are known to be related to males’ fighting ability. The number of spots seems to be an character showing ontogenetic change as large (generally older) males showed more blue spots than small (generally younger) males. Males with a higher body condition also showed a higher number of blue spots. Thus, a higher number of blue spots may be used to signal size, age or body condition. Many contiguous blue spots would result in a visual artefact consisting of a continuous blue band, which might be a reliable size- or condition-dependent signal in some social contexts. We further examined in the laboratory whether male characteristics are related to dominance status. In males with similar body size or age, those with relatively larger heads were more dominant, whereas the number of blue spots was not important. Moreover, the number of blue spots in nature was not related to relative head size. Finally, we experimentally manipulated the presence and the number of blue spots of intruding males, and examined the aggressive response of resident males. Intruder individuals manipulated to cover all their blue spots received a lower amount of aggression. However, males with different numbers of manipulated blue spots received a similar number of aggressive responses. These results suggest that, during agonistic encounters, the presence of blue spots, but not their number, may elicit aggressiveness. Thus, blue spots may serve to identify an individual as an adult male, and to enhance body size of larger males.
López, P. & Martin, J. Cuadrado, M. (2002) -
Sex recognition is based on color signals in many species of lizards. However, olfactory stimuli are also clearly involved, and many species might rely primarily on chemoreception. We aimed to examine whether color pattern or odors, or a combination of both factors, induce the aggressive response of males of the lizard P. hispanicus. We experimentally manipulated the coloration and odor of male P. hispanicus, thereby creating groups with all combinations between coloration and odor of males or females. Using data from staged encounters, we compared the responses of resident males to the experimental groups of manipulated males and their response to unmanipulated individuals (males and females). Responding males reacted significantly more aggressively to intruders with male odors independent of their coloration, whereas intruders with female odors did not elicit aggressive responses but were preferentially courted, irrespective of their actual sex and body coloration. In addition, intruders with female odors elicited a higher number of tongue-flick explorations than male odor ones. Comparisons with unmanipulated male and female intruders agreed with these expectations. Therefore, at least at close range, odoriferous cues seem to be more important than color patterns in sex recognition and intrasexual aggression by male P. hispanicus. We suggest that this might be a pattern commoner than expected in many species of reptiles.
López, P. & Moreira, P.L. & Martin, J. (2009) -
In the lizard Iberolacerta monticola, there are 2 discrete color morphs (`blue` vs. `green`) that seem to have alternative reproductive strategies. Because scent marking of territories and chemoreception are important in social organization of these lizards, we explored whether there is also chemical polymorphism and chemosensory recognition between color morphs. Analyses by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry showed that adult males of different morphs had similar chemical compounds in femoral gland secretions, but the proportions of some shared chemicals were different; blue morph males had higher proportions of steroids and lower proportions of fatty acids than green males. Differential tongue-flick rates to scents from femoral secretions of males indicated that males were able to detect the scent of any male from a baseline odorless control (water) but did not discriminate between the scent of males of different morphs. In contrast, females detected and discriminated between scents of the 2 male morphs by chemical cues alone. We suggest that differences in males` chemical signals between morphs and the ability of females of discriminating chemically between male morphs might be required to maintain spatial behavior, social organization, and mate choice decisions and, thus, be important for the maintenance of alternative reproductive strategies and polymorphism in lizards.
López, P. & Muñoz, A. & Martin, J. (2002) -
Female preference for dominant males is widespread and it is generally assumed that success in male-male competition reflects high quality. However, male dominance is not always attractive to females. Alternatively, relatively symmetric individuals may experience fitness advantages, but it remains to be determined whether males with more symmetrical secondary sexual traits experience advantages in both intra- and intersexual selection. We analysed the factors that determine dominance status in males of the lizard Lacerta monticola, and their relationship to female mate preference, estimated by the attractiveness of males` scents to females. Sexually dimorphic traits of this lizard (head size and femoral pores) appear to be advanced by different selection pressures. Males with relatively higher heads, which give them advantage in intrasexual contests, were more dominant. However, head size was unimportant to females, which preferred to be in areas marked by relatively heavier males, but also by males more symmetric in their counts of left and right femoral pores. Chemicals arising from the femoral pores and other glands might honestly indicate quality (i.e. related to the symmetry levels) of a male to females and may result from intersexual selection. Females may use this information because the only benefit of mate choice to female lizards may be genetic quality. Chemical signals may be more reliable and have a greater importance in sexual selection processes of lizards than has previously been considered.
Loras Orti, F. & Jurado Angulo, P. (2020) -
A well-documented case of predation of an Anguis fragilis newborn by an adult male of Podarcis muralis is described in a sunny area on the side of an abandoned irrigation raft in Les Planes d’Hostoles (Catalonia, Spain). If we have paid attention to the compiled material published on the diets and predators of the two species, the case seems to be the first that is known in the Iberian Peninsula. As it is not possible to find another publication that comments on this predator-prey relationship, it is also possible that it is the first case published in the entire joint distribution of the two species.
Loras Ortí, F. & Soler Massana, J. & Martinez Silvestre, A. (2023) -
De manera natural las invasiones biológicas son un fenómeno común resultante de eventos geotectónicos, climáticos u otros eventos naturales (Lodge, 1993; Arslan, 2019). Sin embargo, como consecuencia de la globalización las invasiones biológicas ocurren con mayor frecuencia, facilitando la propagación accidental de especies exóticas y el establecimiento como invasoras (Kolar & Lodge, 2001). Los orígenes de estas nuevas invasiones son diversos: comercio de especies exóticas, transporte activo (liberación deliberada) y transporte pasivo (escape de animales domésticos, transferencia de parásitos y patógenos, y polizones) (Goh & O`Riordan, 2007; Westphal et al. 2008; Hulme, 2015; Pupins et al. 2023). Para prevenir y hacer frente a las invasiones biológicas en un clima cambiante, se necesitan conocimientos sobre la biología de la invasión, los procesos y rasgos que promueven la invasión, y las posibles respuestas de las especies exóticas a las nuevas condiciones ambientales (Courchamp et al. 2017). Los contenedores de mercancías internacionales son utilizados para el transporte de material de diversos orígenes y usos (alimentación, construcción, jardinería, etc.) a través de cargueros marítimos, tren y avión, siendo la segunda causa del establecimiento de especies invasoras (Bomford et al. 2008). Existen datos de transporte accidental de serpientes y lacértidos vivos entre la Europa continental e islas adyacentes (Carretero et al. 2014; SilvaRocha et al. 2014; Ortega et al. 2016), pero es menos habitual en especies tropicales, debido a la lejanía o el tiempo en el contenedor. En España en los últimos años destacan la captura: de la víbora Porthidium lansbergii originaria de Colombia (Martínez- Silvestre et al. 2020), de la rana Hyperolius concolor originaria de Costa de Marfil (Martínez- Silvestre et al. 2019) o la Agama lebretoni originaria de Guinea Ecuatorial (Sancho & Pauwels, 2015). A estas observaciones el presente equipo, ha recopilado seis transportes accidentales más entre 2019 y 2022: cinco en Barcelona, dos introducciones de Gallotia stehlini en contenedores de fruta originarios de Gran Canaria, la introducción de Agama agama en un contenedor de madera originario de Camerun, una introducción de Agama picticauda en un contenedor de cacao originario de Guinea Equatorial, y la introducción de Psammophilus dorsalis en un contenedor de BIGBAGS originario de la India; y una en Tarragona, una introducción de Gallotia stehlini capturada en un polígono industrial. Sesión: Invasiones Biológicas
Lorenzen, E. & Gottwald, J. (1992) -
Lorenzen, E. & Müller, K (1989) -
Lorenzen, E. & Müller, K. (1989) -
Lorenzo, M. de & Mileo, A. & Laforgia, V. & Falco, M. de & Rosati, L. (2021) -
The non-stop release and increase in the ecosystem of toxic and polluting substances such as endocrine disrupting chemicals pose a threat to the survival of wildlife. Nonylphenol and Octylphenol are well known xenobiotics, with estrogen-like properties, widely used to optimize the manufacturing of different products, and due to their hydrophobicity and low solubility, they are persistent and ubiquitous in many environmental matrices. The goal of the present study was to investigate the effects of these compounds on the testis of the lizard Podarcis siculus during the reproductive period, focusing our attention on the steroidogenesis process. The lizard P. siculus has been chosen as animal model as it is usually used as a sentinel species and because the morphology and physiology of testis between lizards and mammals do not change, allowing a fine correlation of observed effects to human health. Obtained results showed that both substances used in this study, are able to alter testis histology and localization of key steroidogenic enzymes such as 3_- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17_-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and P450 aromatase, which represents the major target of these two alkylphenols. In conclusion, Nonylphenol and Octylphenol inhibit steroidogenesis, interfering with the reproductive capacity of the lizard Podarcis siculus.
Lorenzo, M. di & Sciarrillo, R. & Rosati, L. & Sellitti, A. & Barra, T. & Luca, A. de & Laforgia, V. & Falvo, M. de (2020) -
Alkylphenols (AP) are widespread environmental compounds belonging to the large family of substances known as Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs). The present study was carried out to assess the effects of Octylphenol (OP) alone and in combination with Nonylphenol (NP) on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal gland (HPA) axis of the lizard Podarcis sicula. Lizards are good bioindicators due to their features such as wide distribution, large population and good sensitivity to contaminants. Results obtained showed a time and dose-dependent stimulation of the HPA together with a high variation of both catecholamine plasma levels and greater vascularization and hypertrophy of steroidogenic cord of adrenal gland after both OP and OP+NP treatments. Interestingly, the OP+NP mixture treatment has provoked a state of stress of the adrenal gland which in fact appeared to be characterized by the presence of a marked macrophage infiltration which can be seen especially close to the connective capsule surrounding the gland. This macrophage infiltration could be an evidence of a particularly pronounced inflammatory state to indicate, probably, an animal’s response to a non-physiological situation.
Lorenzon, E. & Gottwald, J. (1992) -
Lorenzon, P. (2000) -
Lorenzon, P. & Clobert, J. & Massot, M. (2001) -
Lorenzon, P. & Clobert, J. & Oppliger, A. & John-Alder, H. (1999) -
We investigated the effect of water constraints on yearling Lacerta vivipara, a widespread species of lizard inhabiting European peat bogs and heath land. We conducted a laboratory experiment to investigate plasticity of growth rate, activity level and preferred body temperature. We subjected individuals of two source habitats (dry vs humid) to two laboratory conditions of water supply resulting in different air relative humidity and water availability (high vs low). We observed that a low water supply induced a lower growth rate and lower activity level, suggesting that growth limitation is correlated with adaptive responses to avoid dehydration. However, individuals from the two habitats selected different body temperatures when restricted in water and showed different ratios between growth and activity. This suggests that there is population variability in phenotypic plasticity with respect to water availability in the habitat. Field observations conducted in six natural populations, classified into two groups (dry vs humid habitat) also suggest that growth rate in nature is constrained by water availability.
Lortet, L. (1883) -
Lorvelec, O. & Bailon, S. (2003) -
Losekoot, P. (2019) -
Lotiev, K. & Batkhiev, A. (2024) -
The background species of the saurofauna of the southeastern periphery of the Tersk Sands in the early 1980s were Phrynocephalus guttatus (Gmelin, 1789), Eremias velox (Pallas, 1771) and Eremias arguta (Pallas, 1773). Research conducted in 1983–1984 showed that each of them had different preferred biotopes: Phr. guttatus – blown sands, E. arguta – fixed sands, E. velox – scattered shrubbery. At the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries, Phr. guttatus completely disappeared in the study area on the southeastern periphery of the Tersk Sands, and after 2008 - E. velox. Currently, the territory is inhabited by E. arguta and the widespread Lacerta strigata Eichwald, 1831. The rapid changes in the composition of the saurofauna can be explained primarily by the strict biotopic confinement of lizards in conditions of total steppification of the Terek sands. The transformation of landscapes brought stenobiont species, in the conditions of the Eastern Pre-Caucasus psammophile species of Turanian genesis, to the brink of extinction and created favorable conditions for eurybiont and/ or steppe forms. If existing trends continue, we can expect the complete disappearance of such obligate psammophiles as Phr. mystaceus (Pallas, 1776) and Phr. guttatus in the Terek Sands. They may be followed by Trapelus sanguinolentus (Pallas, 1814) and E. velox. In this case, biotopic preferences of a species determine their current and prospective sociological status.
Лотиев К.Ю. & Батхиев А.М. (2023) -
Фоновыми видами заурофауны юго-восточной перифе- рии Терских песков в начале 1980-х гг. были: Phrynocephalus guttatus (Gmelin, 1789), Eremias velox (Pallas, 1771), Eremias arguta (Pallas, 1773). Исследования, проведенные в 1983–1984 гг., показали, что каждый из них имел различные предпочитаемые биотопы: Phr. guttatus – незакре- пленные пески, E. arguta – закрепленные пески, E. velox – разреженные кустарниковые заросли. На рубеже XX–XXI вв. в районе исследований на юго-восточной периферии Терских песков полностью исчезла Phr. guttatus, после 2008 г. – E. velox. В настоящее время территорию насе- ляют E. arguta и широко распространившаяся Lacerta strigata Eichwald, 1831. Стремительные изменения в составе заурофауны можно объяс- нить в первую очередь жесткой биотопической приуроченностью яще- риц в условиях быстрого остепнения Терских песков. Трансформация ландшафтов поставила на грань исчезновения стенобионтные виды, в условиях Восточного Предкавказья виды-псаммофилы туранского гене- зиса, и создала благоприятные условия для эврибионтных и/или степ- ных форм. При сохранении существующих тенденций можно ожидать полного исчезновения в Терских песках таких облигатных псаммофилов, как Phr. mystaceus (Pallas, 1776) и Phr. guttatus. За ними могут последо- вать Trapelus sanguinolentus (Pallas, 1814) и E. velox. Биотопические пре- ференции вида определяют в данном случае их текущий и перспектив- ный созологический статус.
Lotiev, K.J. & Doronin, I.V. (2010) -
Lotiev, L.J. & Doronin, I.V. (2011) -
Darevskia caucasica vedenica is a most poorly studied taxon of the genus Darevskia. Data and some considerations confirming the validity of D. c. vedenica are given. A new record of D. c. vedenica from the upper stream of the Fortanga River, 5 – 7 km east from the Verkhniy Alkun settlement (Ingushetia) in a mountain forest at 700 – 1000 m a.s.l. is reported. The contours of the proposed geographic range of D. c. vedenica coincide with the border of the most humid (above 800 mm per year) and cool (average annual isotherms + 4– +6 °С) zones in an altitude range of 700 – 2000 m. a.s.l. A probable scenario of the formation of D. c. vedenica is discussed.
Лотиев К.Ю., Доронин И.В. (2011) -
Darevskia caucasica vedenica (Darevsky et Roitberg, 1999) - один из самых малоизученных таксонов рода Darevskia. Наши полевые исследования и изучение коллекционного материала подтверждают валидность D. с. vedenica. Приводится новая находка D. с. vedenica из верхнего течения р. Фортанга в 5 - 7 км восточнее с. Верхний Алкун (Ингушетия), горно-лесистой местности на высотах 700 - 1000 м н.у.м. Контуры ареала D. с. vedenica совпадают с границами наиболее влажной (более 800 мм в год) и прохладной (среднегодовая изотерма +4 - +6°С) зоны в диапазоне высот от 700 до 2000 м н.у.м. Обсуждаются особенности биотопического распределения и вопрос формирования таксона.
Loughland, R.A. & Cunningham, P.L. (2002) -
Loureiro, A. & Almeida, N.F. de & Carretero, M.A. & Paulo, O.S. (2008) -
Loureiro, A. & Ferrand de Almeida, N. & Carretero, M.A. & Paulo, O.S. (2008) -
Louw, G.N. & Holm, E. (1972) -
Loveridge, A. (1920) -
Loveridge, A. (1922) -
Loveridge, A. (1929) -
Loveridge, A. (1933) -
Loveridge, A. (1936) -
Loveridge, A. (1937) -
Loveridge, A. (1941) -
Loveridge, A. (1942) -
Loveridge, A. (1951) -
Loveridge, A. (1953) -
Loveridge, A. (1955) -
Loveridge, A. (1957) -
Loveridge, A.. (1936) -
Lovrić, A.Ž. (1969) -
Lu, H.L. & Gao, J.F. & Guo, K. & Ji, X. (2022) -
We used Takydromus septentrionalis, a sexually size-monomorphic lacertid lizard, as a model system to test the hypothesis that sexual size monomorphism may evolve in lizards where reproductive performance is maximized at a similar body size for both sexes. We allowed lizards housed in laboratory enclosures to lay as many clutches (for females) as they could or to mate as many times (for males) as they could in a breeding season. Size-assortative mating was weak but evident in T. septentrionalis, as revealed by the fact that male and female snout–vent lengths (SVLs) in mating pairs were significantly and positively correlated. Mating frequency (indicative of male reproductive performance) varied from 1 to 8 per breeding season, generally increasing as SVL increased in adult males smaller than 67.4 mm SVL. Clutch frequency varied from 1 to 7 per breeding season, with female reproductive performance (determined by clutch frequency, annual fecundity, and annual reproductive output) maximized in females with a SVL of 68.0 mm. Accordingly to our hypothesis, the reproductive performance was maximized in the intermediate sized rather than the largest individuals in both sexes, and the body size maximizing reproductive performance was similar for both sexes. Future work could usefully investigate other lineages of lizards with sexually monomorphic species in a phylogenetic context to corroborate the hypothesis of this study.
Lu, H.L. & Wang, J. & Xu, D.D. & Dang, W. (2018) -
The understanding of life-history responses to increased temperature is helpful for evaluating the potential of species for tackling future climate change. Herein, adult southern grass lizards, Takydromus sexlineatus, were maintained under two thermal regimes simulating current thermal environment and a 4 °C warming scenario to determine the effects of experimental warming on female reproduction and offspring phenotypes. Experimental warming caused females to oviposit earlier and more frequently; however, it did not affect other reproductive traits, including clutch size, egg mass and clutch mass. Accelerated embryonic development and energy accumulation rate might have occurred in warmed females. Maternal warming appeared to increase early embryonic mortality, but did not shift hatchling size and locomotor performance. Embryos of oviparous lizards might be more vulnerable to climate change at early stages than at later stages. The impacts of climate change in oviparous lizards might be adverse in the longer term because of the shift in pre-ovipositional embryo viability, which possibly led to a decreased number of hatchlings.
Lu, Y. & Zhang, P. & Wang, X. & Li, P. (2000) -
年,在對山東省膠東半島最大的山脈--昆崳山進行兩棲爬行動物的普查中,采到2號活體蜥蜴標本,經鑒定為蜥蜴科草蜥屬北草蜥(Takydromus septentronalis Günther),是山東省爬行動物新記錄,現報道如下.
Lübeck, O. (1911) -
LUBW [Landesanstalt für Umwelt, Messungen und Naturschutz Baden-Württemberg] (2013) -
Luca, N. de (1989) -
External morphology of Horvath`s rock lizard (Lacerta liorvathi MEHELY 1904) was examined. Variability was established in the biornetric, meristic and qualitative characters, as well as differences between the adult and juvenile an males and females and between the samples of animals from the Slovenian and north Dinarie part of the area, New localities were stated and the known area of this species expanded.
Luca, N. de (1990) -
Luca, N. de (1992) -
Lacerta horvathi is a relatively poorly known species assigned to a taxonomi- cally problematic group of lacertid lizards - Archaeolacerta. It is present with scattered mountain populations in the Julian Alps of Slovenia, in the Ucka Moun- tain and the northern Dinarid Mountains of Croatia, in northeastern Italy, in southwestern Austria, and in southern Germany (LAPINJ & DOLCE 1983, GRIL- LITSCH & TEDEMANN 1986, DE LUCA 1989, CAPULA & LUISELLI 1990). Much of data on distribution and taxonomy of this species were presented during the past few years (e.g. the papers cited above, DE LUCA & DULIC 1988, CAPULA et al. 1989). However, the comprehensive data regarding biology and ecology of L. horvathi are still missing. In this paper some new data on daily and seasonal activity patterns, thermoregulation, reproduction and food composition, are presented.
Luca, N. de & Đulić, B. (1988) -
Karyotype analysis of 2 male horvath`s rock lizard, Lacerta (Archaeolacerta) horvathi, found 2n = 36 in both somatic and spermatogonial metaphases. All the chromosomes are acrocentric. In diakinesis, 18 bivalents are visible. Microchromosomes, characteristic of most lacertid karyotypes, are absent in this species. In a single metaphase, satellites were observed on the 8th pair of chromosomes. Male sex chromosomes have not been determined. Overall, the karyotype of Lacerta horvathi is similar to that of Lacerta vivipara.
Luca, N. de & Grbac, I. (1995) -
In this paper we present an analysis of phenetic relationship between two subspecies of Common Wall Lizard Podarcis muralis (LAURE TI, 1768) in the supposedly transition zone in the town of Rijeka and its vicinity (Croatia, orthern Adriatic Coast), A total of 96 adult specimens was investigated, using univariate methods (ANOYAand Mann-Whitney U-test) and multivariate cluster-analysis, based on 43 external morphological characters. A considerable amount of phenotypic dissimilarity was found between specimens from the town of Rijeka and specimens from the nearby area of Grobnik. The Grobnik population can be described as nominotypic, continentally adapted Podarcis muralis muralis, while Rijeka samples showed much closer phenetic similarity to Podarcis muralis maculioentris populations from the narrow coastal zone of the Istrian Peninsula. Although recognized as P. muralis maculioentris in a sense of conventional subspecies concept, substantial evidence supports the hypothesis of the hybrid character of the Rijeka population. The Rijeka population shows, for example, greater morphological variability and appearance of lIIuralis-specific color and pattern character states. Cluster analysis showed, therefore, incomplete morphological separation between Rijeka and Grobnik specimens. These two populations also differ substantially in their habitat and climatic preferences, Population differentiation may be caused by a corresponding change in environmental conditions, which are particularly evident in this region along the transect from the Adriatic Coast to the coastal mountains. New evidence for the presence of P. muralis maculiuentris on the eastern coast of the Istrian Peninsula is also discussed. This evidence seems to further support the hypothesis that P. m. mnculiventris appears in climatically favorable habitats in the narrow coastal zone of the Istrian Peninsula, while P. nt. muralis inhabits cooler habitats, mostly further away from the coast.
Luca, N. de & Grbac, I. & Lazar, B. (1998) -
We inspected the phenetic relationship among coastal and insular lizard populations of Podarcis muralis muralis and P. muralis maculiventris in the northern Adriatic region.
Luca, N. de & Kleteèki, E. & Dulic, B. (1989) -
Luca, N. de & Kovačić, D. & Đulić, B. (1990) -
Lucić, V. (2007) -
Lucić, V. & Kapelj, S. & Strišković, S. & Popić, S. & Kolarić, A. & Kovač, D.& Krstinić, P. & Čolić, L. (2008) -
Lucini, C. & Girolamo, P. de & Lamanna, C. & Vega, J.A. & Castaldo, L. (2001) -
The tyrosine kinase proteins (Trk), encoded by the trk family of proto-oncogenes, mediate, in mammals, the action of neurotrophins, a family of growth factors acting on the development and maintenance of the nervous system. Neurotrophins and their specific receptors, TrkA, TrkB and TrkC, seem to be phylogenetically well preserved but, in reptiles, data regarding the occurrence of Trk-like proteins are very scarce, especially in non-nervous organs. Western blot analysis demonstrated that the lizard gut contains TrkA- and TrkC-like, but not TrkB-like, proteins. Consistently, TrkA- and TrkC-like immunoreactivity were both observed in neurons of the anterior intestine, whereas endocrine cells of the stomach and anterior intestine only displayed TrkA-like immunoreactivity. These results demonstrate for the first time the occurrence of Trk-like proteins in non-neuronal tissues of reptilians and provide further evidence for the evolutionary preservation of the molecular mass and cell distribution of Trk neurotrophin receptor-like proteins in the gut of vertebrates.
Ludwig, M. & Grosse, W.-R. (2009) -
Ludwig, M. & Grosse, W.-R. (2014) -
From March to October in 2007 and 2008, a population of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) at the south-western edge of the Dölauer Heide (Halle/Saale) and three other populations in the area of Halle and Leipzig were examined. During this study, biometric data and tick infestation of 165 sand lizards were analyzed. From all study sites, the population at the south-western edge of the Dölauer Heide possessed the largest number of individuals. Over all populations, the biometric data pointed out, that one third of all sampled animals lost their tail at least once. While in the reference populations, the proportion of autotomized individuals between sexes did not drift so far apart, the proportion of autotomized males in the population at the south-western edge of the Dölauer Heide laid well below that of autotomized females. Both successful predation and displacement of due to autotomy disadvantaged males might have led to this phenomenon. The adult animals with the largest snout-vent length and BCI values were found at the south-western edge of the Dölauer Heide. This could be an indicator that in this population also relatively old animals can be found, taking into consideration that an age estimation of adult sand lizards on the basis of biometric factors proves to be difficult. Across all populations a relatively high tick infestation rate (Ixodes ricinus) was observed, with slightly more males parasitized than females. Furthermore, it became evident that biometric data, in particular tick infestation and body condition index, can be significantly influenced by the time of sampling during the course of the year.
Ludwigova, Y. (2001) -
Lue, K.-Y. & Lin, S.-M. (2008) -
Two new grass lizard species, previously confused with Takydromus formosanus, were identified in Taiwan using mitochondrial DNA sequences. In the present study, 40 morphological characters and their taxonomic significances were assessed using principal components analysis and discriminant analysis. The three species can be distinguished by morphology of body sizes, dorsal and caudal scales, and most importantly, by male coloration during the breeding seasons. The present study increases the total number of Takydromus to 19 species, of which 10 are insular endemics, with six only occurring in Taiwan.
Lue, K.Y. & Chen, S.-L. & Yeh, K.K.C. (1988) -
Luef, H.J. & Luef-Kászoni, E. (2006) -
Luft, A. & Erp, C. van (1989) -
Lugt, A. van der (1994) -
Herpetological observations were made over a period ofeight days in three areas ofsouthern France. The places visited included the Camargue, the area below Perpignan and the surroundings of the town of Privas. The 19 species we saw, are described in this article and are mentioned in the accompanying table.
Lugt, M. van der & Lugt, A. van der & Lugt, G. van der (2011) -
The common lizard in Blauwestad In the northeast of the Netherlands, a landscape transformation project Blauwestad, designed to give this poor and underperforming region an economic boost, has led to the creation of a 800-hectare lake. The project concerns an area in the middle of the `Island of Winschoten`, a former peninsula that push moraines, formed during the ice age, protected from flooding by the nearby sea. For hundreds of years, this area was a part of Bourtangerveen, a huge moorland that stretched from the norteast of the Netherlands to northwestern Germany. From the Middle Ages onwards, people harvested the moorland peat, thereby gradually changing the area into agricultural land. Nowadays the only remnants of the moorland are on an island left in the middle of the newly formed lake, three strips of peat together having a surface of 0.4 hectares. Along with some broadleaf woodland and grassland, they form the 25-hectare nature reserve Meerland. A small population of the Common Lizard (Zootoca vivipara) occurs in the grassland around the peat strips, probably a remnant of a large population that once lived on Bourtangerveen. Now one of the most northern of the Netherlands, this literally isolated population has an uncertain future.
Luis de la Iglesia, J.A. & Lopez-Garcia, C. (1997) -
The medial cortex of lizards is a three-layered brain region displaying cyto- and chemoarchitectonical, connectional, and ontogenetic characteristics that relate it to the hippocampal fascia dentata of mammals. Three interneuron types located in the cell layer and ten others in the inner plexiform layer (six in the juxtasomatic zone and four in the deep zone) are described in this study. The granuloid neurons, web-axon neurons, and deep-fusiform neurons lay within the cell layer. These neurons were scarce; they were probably gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-, and parvalbumin-immunoreactive and presumably participated in feed forward as well as in feed back inhibition of the principal projection cells of the lizard medial cortex. In the juxtasomatic inner plexiform layer, the smooth vertical neurons, smooth horizontal neurons, small radial neurons, large radial neurons, pyramidal-like radial neurons, and spheroidal neurons were found. They were all probably GABA-, and parvalbuminimmunoreactive and were involved in feed forward inhibition of principal medial cortex cells. In the deep inner plexiform layer lay the giant-multipolar neurons, long-spined polymorphic neurons, periventricular neurons, and alveus-horizontal neurons. These neurons were probably GABA-immunoreactive and either neuropeptide- (somatostatin-neuropeptide Y) or parvalbumin-immunoreactive. They seemed to be involved in feed back or even occasionally in feed forward inhibition phenomena.
Luis de la Iglesia, J.A. & Martinez-Guijarro, F.J. & Lopez-Garcia, C. (1994) -
The study of Golgi-impregnated lizard brains has revealed a scarce but heterogeneous neuronal population in the outer plexiform layer of the medial cortex. Some of the neuronal types detected here resemble the neurons of the dentate molecular layer of the mammalian hippocampus. According to their morphology, five intrinsic neuronal types have been clearly identified: short axon aspinous bipolar neuron (type 1, or sarmentous neuron), short axon aspinous juxtasomatic neuron (type 2, or coral neuron), short axon sparsely spinous multipolar neuron (type 3, or stellate neuron), short axon sparsely spinous juxtasomatic multipolar neuron (type 4, or deep stellate neuron), and sparsely spinous juxtasomatic horizontal neuron (type 5, or couchant neuron). Most neuronal types were identified as y-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and parvalbumin immunoreactive, and are thus probably involved in medial cortex inhibition. Moreover, a small fraction of them displayed @-endorphinim munoreactivity. The distribution of these neuronal types is not uniform in the laminae of the outer plexiform layer. Type 1 (sarmentous) and type 3 (stellate) neurons overlap the axonal field projection coming from the dorsal cortex and the thalamus, whereas types 4 (deep stellate) and 5 (couchant) neurons overlap ipsi- and contralateral dorsomedial projection fields as well as raphe serotoninergic and opioid immunoreactive axonal plexi. Thus, these neuronal types may be involved in the control of specific inputs to the medial cortex by presumably feed-forward inhibition; nevertheless, feed-back inhibition may also occur regarding type 4 (deep stellate) neurons that extend deep dendrites to the zinc-rich bouton field.
Luís, C. & Rebelo, R. & Brito, J.C. & Godinho, M.R. & Paulo, O.S. & Crespo, E.G. (2004) -
Luis, C. & Rodrigues, I. & Guerreiro, S.G. & Fernandes, R. & Soares, R. (2019) -
Regeneration is the process of regrowth of an injured/missing tissue/organ from the residual tissue. One outstanding example is the regeneration of tail in lizards in which they can completely regenerate without the formation of scaring or fibrotic tissue. This study presents an analysis of the main differences between a mature regenerated tail and the original tail of the lizard Podarcis bocagei by comparing histological biomarkers for support structures, morphology and pigmentation, vasculature and energy storage. Matured regenerated and original tails were studied with different histological staining’s and immunohistochemistry to highlight the various tissue components. We found differences in the morphological features scalation pattern and pigmentation, as well as in the support structures: muscle organization, collagen and calcification. Vasculature was remodeled. Energy storage was restored with regeneration maintaining therefore the main metabolic function. We demonstrate that the regenerated tail does not lose its main functions like locomotion and energy metabolism. The present findings may open a new window of research with implications in regenerative medicine.
Luiselli, L. & Angelici, F.M. & Vittorio, M. di & Spinnato, A. & Politano, E. (2005) -
A field survey was conducted in a highly degraded barren environment in Sicily in order to investigate herpetofaunal community composition and structure, habitat use (niche breadth and overlap) and relative abundance of a snake predator and two species of lizard prey. The site was chosen because it has a simple community structure and thus there is potentially less ecological complexity to cloud any patterns observed. We found an unexpectedly high overlap in habitat use between the two closely related lizards that might be explained either by a high competition for space or through predator-mediated co-existence i.e. the prevention of the competitive exclusion of one lizard over the other. We also found a strong positive correlation between predator density and tail damage in lizards and we suggest that tail damage is a direct consequence of snake activity (because no other natural predators occur in the area).
Luiselli, L. & Capula, M. & Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2004) -
Preliminary data on the diet of two populations of Podarcis raffonei are presented. This species is principally insectivorous and the main categories of its prey are represented by ants and other small-size Hymenoptera.The unexpected very low consumption of vegetal matter, as well as other dietary features emerged from the analysed data are discussed.
Luiselli, L. & Rugiero, L. & Celletti, S. & Papi, R. (2011) -
Luiselli, L. & Stille, B. & Stille, M. & Buttemer, W.A. & Madsen, T. (2022) -
We analysed the effects of body mass on the monthly activity patterns of six Mediterranean lacertid lizard taxa, four relatively small species, the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus), the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), the blue-throated keeled lizard (Algyroides nigropunctatus), and the Ionian wall lizard (Podarcis ionicus), and two larger species, the western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) and the Balkan green lizard (Lacerta trilineata). The highest number of observations for all six species occurred in April and May and the lowest in July and August, the latter being the hottest and driest months of the year. The two larger species were mainly active from March to July, whereas the four smaller species had an additional period of high activity from September to November. As all six species reproduce during spring, the increase in activity of the smaller species in autumn was consequently unrelated to reproductive behaviour. There was no difference in seasonal activity of the two smaller Italian species at sites with or without the larger green lizards. It is therefore unlikely that interference competition/predation by green lizards caused the increased autumnal activity of the smaller lizards. We suggest that due to their lower mass-specific metabolic rates, larger species can obtain sufficient lipid stores over a shorter annual activity to ensure successful reproduction the subsequent spring. By contrast, smaller species have greater need to replenish their lipid reserves after summer fasting and therefore resume much higher activity levels in September to November to attain this goal.
Luke, C. (1986) -
Lizard toe fringes are composed of laterally projecting elongated scales and have arisen independently at least 26 times in seven families of lizards. Four different fringe types are identified: triangular, projectional, conical and rectangular. To determine if variation in fringe morphology can be attributed to environmental differences, each independent evolution of a fringe type is identified; correlation of substrate types with evolutionarily independent fringe morphologies are thrn studied. Variation in fringe morphology shows a strong association with substrate type: triangular, projectional and conical fringes with windblown sand; and rectangular fringes with watcr. Some aspects of fringe morphology may result from differences in functional requirements, and others may have no adaptive significance. This example of convergent evolution points out difficulties inherent to comparative studies of adaptation and underscores the value of broad comparative surveys which provide an alternative to ad hor adaptive explanations of similarity.
Lukina, G.P. (1963) -
Lukina, G.P. & Kravchenko, T.F. (1982) -
Some data are presented on the ecology of two lizard species: Eremias velox and E. arguta inhabiting the so-called Ciscaucasian area of the USSR. Both species prefer sandy areas, but E. arguata being more eurytopic, is more tolerant to the anthropogenic disturbing effects in the Kalmykian region. Activity diagrams of both species have two maxima during the day. Beetles seem to be the dominant items in the diet of both species.
Lukonina, S.A. & Ermakov, O.R. (2022) -
Background. Reliable identification of animal taxa characterized by weak mor-phological differences and, at the same time, by significant genetic differentiation is essential condition for the study of biological diversity. The authors set the task of developing test systems using the PCR-RFLP method for the identification of mitochondrial lineages of the Crimean rock lizard Darevskia lindholmi (Szczerbak, 1962), an endemic of Crimea, which is distributed exclusively in the mountainous part of the peninsula. Materials and methods. Based on the analysis of the nucleotide sequences of the cytochrome b gene of the mitochondrial DNA of D. lindholmi, a search for marker nucleotide substitutions specific for each lineage and recognition sites for the HaeIII and TasI restriction endonucleases was carried out. Results. The use of the HaeIII restriction enzyme makes it possible to identify only one, the most differentiated lineage, while the TasI restriction enzyme allows an iden-tification of all three known mitochondrial lineages. Conclusions. The test system proposed by the authors is a simple and reliable method for identifying mitochondrial lineages of the Crimean rock lizard and can be successfully applied in screening studies.
Luna, S. & Font, E. (2013) -
Luna, S. & Lanuza, G.P. & Font, E. (2013) -
Lunghi, E. & Biaggini, M. & Corti, C. (2021) -
Lunn, J. (1991) -
Luo, J. & Guo G.-L. (2011) -
Luo, L. & Wu, Y. & Zhang, Z. & Xu, X. (2012) -
Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) has long attracted the attention of biologists, and life-history variation is thought to play an important role in the evolution of SSD. Here we quantified SSD and female reproductive traits to identify potential associations between SSD and female reproduction in the white-striped grass lizard Takydromus wolteri. In a population from Chuzhou, China, the largest male and female were 53.0 mm and 57.5 mm in snout-vent length (SVL), respectively. Females were larger in SVL and abdomen length, whereas males were larger in head size and tail length. Females produced up to five clutches of eggs during the breeding season, with large females producing more clutches and more eggs per clutch than small ones. As a result, large females had a higher annual fecundity and reproductive output. Egg size was positively correlated with maternal SVL in the first clutch, but not in subsequent clutches. These results suggest that T. wolteri is a species with female-biased SSD, and that fecundity selection, in which large females have higher fecundity due to their higher capacity for laying eggs, is likely correlated with the evolution of SSD in this species
Luo, L.-G. & Ding, G.-H. & Ji, X. (2010) -
We used the northern grass lizard Takydromus septentrionalis as a model animal to examine the energy allocation strategy and whether body temperature can affect maternal reproductive traits in lizards. We maintained adult females collected from the field soon after winter dormancy under three thermal conditions (24.0±1.0°C, 28.0±1.0°C and 32.0±1.0°C) throughout the subsequent reproductive season, and then recorded their energy intake, digestive efficiency, body size and mass changes, and reproductive parameters. Manipulation of body temperature in reproducing females affected energy intake and several maternal reproductive characteristics. Females allocated energy to reproduction following the fulfillment of energetic requirements for metabolism and growth. The reduced energy availability for reproduction constrained females at low or high body temperatures to produce fewer and smaller eggs per season but had no role in influencing the number of eggs produced in single reproductive bouts. Females used currently acquired energy to fuel reproduction, and this strategy did not shift seasonally from the first to subsequent clutches. Our study supports the idea that the use of currently acquired energy for reproduction may be more widespread in ectotherms than thought before, and shows for the first time that egg size is thermally plastic in T. septentrionalis, where eggs produced in single reproductive bouts are believed to be well optimized for size.
Luo, L.-G. & Qu, Y.-F. & Ji, X. (2006) -
We collected adult Eremias argus (Lacertidae) from a population in Yangquan (Shanxi, northern China) to study thermal dependence of food assimilation and sprint speed. Selected body temperature (Tsel) measured on a laboratory thermal gradient was 36.0 °C; critical thermal minimum (CTMin) and critical thermal maximum (CTMax) averaged 1.0 °C and 44.9 °C, respectively. Differences in Tsel, CTMin and CTMax were not found between-sex. Within the range of body temperatures considered, food passage time, daily food intake, daily production of feces and urates, apparent digestive coefficient (ADC) and assimilation efficiency (AE) were all affected by body temperature. Food passage time decreased with increase in body temperature within the range from 26 °C to 34 °C, and then increased at higher body temperatures. Lizards at 30, 32, 34 and 36 °C ate more food and produced more feces and urates than did those at 28 °C and 38 °C. Although ADC and AE were both higher at 34 °C and 36 °C than at other lower or higher temperatures, no clear patterns associated with temperature could be discerned for these two variables. Sprint speed increased with increase in body temperature within the range from 18 °C to 36 °C, and then decreased at 38 °C. The body temperatures maximizing sprint speed was around 36 °C, which was much close to the mean value of body temperatures selected by lizards on the thermal gradient. This result adds evidence that the range of optimal body temperatures for sprint speed is tightly coupled with Tsel in lizards [Acta Zoologica Sinica 52(2):256–262, 2006].
Luppi, M. & Gentilli, A. & Bogliani, G. (2020) -
We examined the characteristics of microhabitats selected by Western green lizards, Lacerta bilineata. Model selection was carried out with the Information-theoretic approach that focuses on the estimation of effect size and measures of its precision. Our results show that the Western green lizard selects positively sites with good shrub cover, necessary as shelter, while it avoids areas with bare soil where there are no refuges. Additionally, lizards showed a posi-tive selection of rocks (located exclusively in artificial riverbanks) that represent a suitable habitat for thermoregulation and sheltering. The results of our work, and particularly the negative effects of bare soil and the positive effects of shrub cover, confirm the need to restore the net-work of hedgerows and other linear elements in cultivated landscapes in order to create suitable areas for L. bilineata.
Lurquin, G. (2010) -
Lurquin, G. (2017) -
Gallotia stehlini (Schenkel, 1901), the Gran Canaria Giant lizard This is a large lizard species of the Lacertidae family from Gran Canaria. They can reach a total length of 80 or even 90 cm. They are endemic to Gran Canaria, although there are a few introduced populations on Fuerteventura. The genus Gallotia is endemic to the Canary Islands. Several species are large, although there used to be several even larger species (up to 1,50 meter), but these are extinct now due to predation by humans and domestic animals in historical times. Gallotia stehlini is not endangered at this moment, it is a very adaptable species. Consequently, their husbandry is not difficult and they are easy to breed. The adults feed for a large part on a vegetarian diet like fruit and vegetables, although they still need some food like insects, snails and baby-mice. The juveniles feed mostly on insects and other invertebrates, although some fruit and vegetables is accepted too. For the rest their husbandry is comparable with that of other Lacertidae, although they are less aggressive towards each other.
Lurquin, G. (2018) -
Lutz-Ostertag, Y. & Dufaure, J.-P. (1961) -
Lutz, D. & Bischoff, W. & Mayer, W. (1986) -
Chemosystematic investigations on the position of Lacerta jayakari and the genera Gallotia and Psammodromus (Sauria; Lacertidae) 13 species of the genera Lacerta, Psammodromus and Gallotia (L. erhardii, L. filfolensis, L. bedriagae, L. cappadocica, L. jayakari, L. vivipara, L. trilineata, L. agilis, P. hispanicus, P. algirus, G. atlantica, G. galloti, G. stehlin:) have been examined by means of micro complement fixation tests (albumin) as well as by proteinelectrophoresis concerning 14 genetic loci. The results and their con-sequences are the follows: 1. L. cappadocica, L. bedriagae, and L. erhardii/L. filfolensis are representatives of phylogeneticly equivalent groups (subgenera). Their isolation in the Middle Miocene corresponds with the first contacts of the landmasses of Eurasia and Africa. 2. Lacerta jayakari may be considered as a representative of a further group equivalent in this aspect; though the immunological results would not exclude a position near the green lizards (subgenus Lacerta s. str.). 3. Because of this isolated position of L. jayakari for this species (and Lacerta cyanura) the subgenus Omanosaura subgen. nov. has been established. 4. Psammodromus hispanicus and P. algirus have probably been isolated of each other since the Middle Miocene, too. 5. The radiation of the genus Gallotia corresponds closely with genesis of the Canary Isles.
Lutz, D. & Mayer, W. (1984) -
Lutz, D. & Mayer, W. (1985) -
Albumins from several species assigned to Lacerta s. 1. and Gallotia were investigated by means of the Micro-Complement fixation technique. The phylogenetic trees evaluated according to Fitch & Margoliash (1967) and Beverley & Wilson (1982) led us to infer a division, which is in accordance with protein electrophoretic results (Mayer & Tiedemann, 1982) as well as with the subgeneric division used before the studies of Böhme (1971) and Arnold (1973).
Lutzmann, N. (1998) -
This article repoß about keeping and first time breeding of Lacerta media ciliciensis. After a hibemation of two months the male and the two females were kept together in a terrarium with the size of 130 x 50 x 30 cm. Each female layed 3 clutches. The clutches contained 1 - 7 eggs. The eggs had a length of I - 2 cm and a width of 0.4 - 1 cm. They were incubated on sand at a temperaturc of 25 - 30°C. The young hatched after 61 - 93 days. The juvenile coloration and how to raise the hatchlings is described. Mating behavior which was observed between the females is briefly discussed.
Lutzmann, N. (2007) -
Lutzmann, N. & Hulbert, F. (2002) -
Luz, A.C. & Monasterio, C. & Vicente, L. (2004) -
Luz, A.C. & Monasterio, C. & Vicente, L. (2006) -
A study in comparative morphology between two different populations of Podarcis carbonelli berlengensis on the Berlenga´s Archipelago was conducted and showed significantly differences between them. The lizards foun d on the island of Farilháo Grande are larger, have relatively longer limbs and are more melanistic than the indiciduals living on the island of Berlenga Grande. Differences related to the head shape, scalation and chromatic pattern were also found. Such differences could be assigned to different selective pressures, founder effect or genetic drift.
Luznik, M. & Antonac, E. & Cimermancic, M. & Cabraja, M. & Kompare, N. & Pavliha, G. & Praprotnik, E. & Rosic, T. & Zun, E. & Kalan, K. (2013) -
Species composition and abundance of reptiles was examined in three different habitats on the island of Cres (Croatia) adjacent to the town of Osor in May 2013. The aim of our study was to examine the sensitivity of biodiversity and similarity indices in reptiles. In each habitat visual observations of reptiles were made by groups of 10 people for 1 hour along a 1 km sampling path. In the first habitat, overgrown pastures surrounded by stone walls, 5 lizard (Podarcis melisellensis, Algyroides nigropunctatus, Podarcis muralis, Lacerta viridis and Pseudopus apodus) and 2 snake species (Hierophis gemonensis and Elaphe quatuorlineata) were observed. In the second habitat, a gravel road on Osorščica hill surrounded by macchia, 3 lizard (P.melisellensis, A. nigropunctatus and L. viridis) and 2 snake species (H. gemonensis and E. quatuorlineata) were found. In the final habitat, stone buildings and walls in the town, 3 species of lizards (P. melisellensis, A. nigropunctatus and Dalmatolacerta oxycephala) were recorded. The dominant species in all three habitats was the Dalmatian Wall Lizard (P. melisellensis). Two biodiversity indices were applied to the data. Simpson’s diversity index indicated that that the second habitat (0.56) had the greatest diversity in terms of species and their abundance, while the Margalef’s index indicated that the first habitat had more diversity (1.69). In addition, Jaccard’s index of similarity indicated that the urban habitat was dissimilar to the other two, while the Bray-Curtis dissimilarity index showed a weak differentiation between the overgrown pastures and the other habitats. The discrepancy in the outputs from the indices highlights the importance of choosing an appropriate mathematical construct to examine biodiversity and habitat similarities.
Lydänge, A. (2005) -
Lydänge, A. (2006) -
Lydänge, A. & Berglind. S.-A. (2003) -
Lymberakis, P. & Isailovic, J.C. & Ajtic, R. & Vogrin, M. & Böhme, W. (2009) -
Lymberakis, P. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2003) -
Anhand der Ergebnisse einer Sammelreise des Natural History Museum of Crete (NHMC) im April 1999 werden neue Ergebnisse zur Herpetofauna Syriens vorgestellt. Wir sammelten an 30 Lokalitäten insgesamt 391 Exemplare in 43 Arten. Die Ergebnisse erweitern unser Wissen über die Verbreitung mehrerer Arten. Die systematische Stellung von vier Arten (Rana bedriagae, Ptyodactylus sp., Lacerta kultzeri, Mabuya aurata) wird im Lichte neuerer Revisionen der syrischen Herpetofauna diskutiert.
Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2008) -
The number of phylogeographic studies on Mediterranean lacertids (Lacertidae) has increased significantly during the last decade. Several cases of hidden diversity, paraphyly and polyphyly have been revealed, allowing the more accurate explanation of the contemporary distributions of these species and the proposition of biogeographic scenarios. The growth of our knowledge functioned as a means for testing, refining and consequently revising such scenarios to a clearer view of the family’s history. However, we are still far from being in position to compose a coherent reconstruction of the evolutionary history of Lacertidae. At the same time though, we consider that such an “exercise”, especially at a local scale, could be extremely useful. The rational for this is that under the light of current advances in phylogeny, contemporary species distributions raise specific questions which in turn may offer feedback hinting specific directions that phylogenetic research should focus on. Here, we attempt an approach of the history of lacertids in Greece based on recent phylogenetic and phylogeographic data. Greece appears to follow the major evolutionary events proposed for Europe. However, a series of local differentiations may be observed, as Greece has functioned as a glacial refuge for many species and its fauna has strong influences by the contact with the Asian fauna through Turkey. Several events of invasions, possible extinctions, reinvasions, isolations and consequent speciation formed the lacertid fauna inhabiting the area.
Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Valakos, E. & Mylonas, M. (2008) -
Recently, several works have focused on the lacertid lizards of the genus Podarcis, revealing cases of hidden diversity and paraphyly, and offering evidence that suggests the revision of the extant taxonomical arrangements within the genus. Hidden diversity and paraphyly have been shown to exist in the relationships betweentheBalkan species P. peloponnesiacaandP. erhardii as well. Herewecouple a molecular (mtDNA) dataset with a corresponding morphological one, consisting of morphometric and pholidotic characters, to check for concordance between the two. Phylogenetic analyses reinforced previous suggestions for paraphyly of P. erhardii with respect to P. peloponnesiaca.We found the variation of certain pholidotic characters concordant with the relationships inferred from partial mtDNA sequences, whereas morphometric characters were not. The latter is possibly due to greater influence of morphometric characters by environmental factors. To avoid the observed paraphyly we proceed with the description of the populations from Crete and the islet of Pori, until now designated as P. erhardii, as separate taxa at the species level.
Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Valakos, E. & Mylonas, M. (2003) -
We studied the phylogenetic relationships among Greek species of Podarcis (Sauria: Lacertidae) as inferred from partial mtDNA sequences. The results were applied on a molecular clock model as to calculate the time of separation among the populations studied. To tune the molecular clock we considered a geological event on which there is a consensus among geologists, namely the separation of Peloponnese from Crete. This event is considered to have occurred between 5 and 5.5 Mya. Taking in account this date we conclude that P. erhardii and P. muralis shared a common ancestor from 9.5 - 10.5 Mya respectively. Primitive P. erhardii, originating from NW Greece, descended southwards splitting in two main clades: One on the landmass which today we recognize as the Cyclades island group, and a second going further to the south. The two species we recognize today as P. peloponnesiaca in Peloponnisos and P. erhardii in Crete actually originate from this second clade. In other words P. erhardii is paraphyletic with respect to P. peloponnesiaca. Genetic distances among, as well as extant distribution of P. erhardii on Crete and satellite island populations, indicate that at least one splitting, one re – colonization and one extinction events occurred on the island.
Lymberakis, P. & Valakos, E. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Poulakakis, N. & Kassara, C. & Mylonas, M. (2004) -
Lymberakis, P. & Valakos, E.D. & Sagonas, K. & Pafilis, P. (2016) -
The ecological importance of islet endemics are in the front line of conservation efforts and thus the good knowledge of their biology is required. Podarcis levendis is a lacertid lizard, endemic to two rocky islets in the Cretan Sea, Greece, that was raised to specific level in 2008 and since then no data on its biology are available. Here we present the first ecological information on the species, focusing on population density, tail autotomy and feeding preferences. We recorded regenerated and damaged tails in the field and estimated population density with the transect method. We also dissected museum specimens and analyzed their stomach content. Regenerated tails were common and reached a considerable 71%. The latter finding could be attributed to the intense intraspecific competition due to high population density but also to the seasonal predation pressure by migratory birds. The diet of P. levendis coincides with that of other insular congenerics, including high percentages of plant material.
Lyubuschenko, S.Y. & Tabachishin, V.G. (2000) -
Contemporary researches show the green lizard to occur within the study area less fre- quently than reported earlier. The lizard distribution is limited to inundated and neighbouring lands along the Dniestr, the Southern Bug and their tributaries. In Podolye region active lizards may be observed from the 1st half of April till the middle of October. Breeding period starts soon after lizards leave their hibernation shelters, in the first half of May. Hatching takes place in June, the 1st half of July. 6 to 14 this-year-born-lizards (average -9) with body size of 39.7 to 58.6 mm appear from second half of July and in August. The eggs size before young lizards leave them is 8.4-9.5 or 12.4-14.1 mm (at n=15 the size is 8.9×0.06, 13.3×0.08). Before hiberna- tion this-year-young-lizard body reaches 69.0 mm long. Food pattern of the green lizard corre- lates with invertebrates within each biotop. The lizards food preferences are Coleptera, Diptera, Arachnoidea, Homoptera, etc. Being an important low-abundant component in the forest-steppe biocenosis at the edge of the species range and taking into account ever-growing human affect the green lizard in Vinnitsky region should be entered into the regional Red data book.
Любущенко С.Ю., Табачишин В.Г. (2000) -
Ma, L. & Guo, K. & Su, S. & Lin, L.-H. & Xia, Y. & Ji, X. (2019) -
The reproductive maturation hypothesis, the terminal investment hypothesis, and the senescence hypothesis are the most extensively evaluated hypotheses proposed to explain age‐related patterns of reproduction in iteroparous organisms. Here, we evaluated these hypotheses for the Mongolian racerunner (Eremias argus), a short‐lived lacertid lizard, by comparing reproductive traits between females that completed reproductive cycles under the same laboratory conditions in two consecutive years (2008 and 2009). Reproductive females gained linear size (snout‐vent length) not only as they got 1 year older but also during the breeding season. Larger females generally laid eggs earlier and invested more in reproduction than did smaller ones. Females switched from laying smaller eggs in the first clutch to larger eggs in the subsequent clutches but kept clutch size and postpartum body mass constant between successive clutches in a breeding season and between years. Females that laid more clutches or eggs in 2008 did not lay fewer clutches or eggs in 2009. Of the traits examined, only clutch frequency, annual fecundity, and annual reproductive output were susceptible to ageing. Specifically, the clutch frequency was reduced by 1.1 clutches, annual fecundity by 3.1 eggs and annual reproductive output by 1.0 g in 2009 compared with 2008. Our results suggest that the reproductive maturation hypothesis better explains patterns of reproduction in young or prime‐aged females of E. argus, whereas the senescence hypothesis better explains reproductive patterns in old females. The terminal investment hypothesis does not apply to any trait examined because no trait value was maximized in old females.
Ma, L. & Liu, P. & Luo, L.G. & Zhao, W.G. & Ji, X. (2019) -
We performed a common garden experiment to assess the differences in life history associated with local adaptation in Takydromus wolteri. Adults from Harbin (cold) and Chuzhou (warm) populations were maintained in common conditions, and their life-history and hatchling characteristics were compared. Harbin and Chuzhou females showed the same patterns of seasonal shifts in egg size and clutch size and produced eggs of similar size, but differed in all other reproductive characteristics. Harbin females laid larger and heavier clutches later and less frequently than Chuzhou females of the same body size. Harbin eggs hatched earlier and resulted in larger hatchlings with shorter tail, forelimb and hindlimb lengths. With respect to local adaptation of life history, we summarize our findings as follows. First, cold-climate females mature later, at a larger size, by prolonging growth and delaying reproduction because of thermal constraints on the time available for activity. Second, cold-climate females produce larger clutches in shorter time periods and invest more yolk in eggs to increase annual fecundity and reproductive output. Third, cold-climate eggs hatch earlier to compensate for a reduced growing season and earlier winter. Fourth, cold-climate hatchlings have a body shape associated with reduced heat exchange and maintenance costs, as predicted by Allen’s rule.
Ma, L. & Sun, B.-J. & Cao, P. & Li, X.-H. & Du, W.-G. (2018) -
Temperature variability is predicted to increase in the coming century due to climate change. However, the biological impact of increased temperature variability on animals remains largely unexplored. Here, we experimentally exposed gravid viviparous lizards (Eremias multiocellata) to two thermal environments [constant daily maximum (CDM) versus variable daily maximum (VDM) treatment with the same average temperature] to address maternal and offspring responses to increased variability in ambient temperature. Females from the VDM treatment delayed parturition, but produced similar litter sizes and litter masses as did CDM females. Offspring from the VDM treatment selected higher body temperatures, had higher metabolic rates and higher growth rates, and grew to a similar size as those from the CDM treatment despite having a shorter growth period prior to hibernation. Therefore, phenotypic plasticity may be critical for lizards to respond effectively to climate change, and its role in responding to increasingly variable temperatures warrants further attention.
Ma, L. & Sun, B.-J. & Li, S.-R. & Hao, X. & Bi, J.-H. & Du, W.-G. (2018) -
The vulnerability of species to climate warming varies along latitudinal and elevational clines, but how sympatric species vary in vulnerability to climate warming remains largely unknown. We experimentally simulated nest temperatures of two sympatric lizards with divergent microhabitat preferences (Phrynocephalus przewalskii and Eremias argus), under climate warming senarios, to determine the response of embryos to increased mean temperatures and heat waves. Our study demonstrated that simulated climate warming reduced hatching success and hatchling size and growth in E. argus (that prefers closed microhabitats), but had less effect in P. przewalskii (that occupies open microhabitats). The reduced growth rate of E. argus hatchlings was associated with a decrease in metabolic rate, which was more evident in hatchling E. argus than in P. przewalskii. Our results suggest lizards that prefer closed microhabitats may be more vulnerable to climate warming than those that prefer open microhabitats; further studies are needed to test this hypothesis. More generally, the divergent responses of sympatric species to climate warming highlights the importance of distinguishing the thermal sensitivity of behavior and physiology for each species of a community, in order to make predictions about the impacts of climate warming at regional scales.
Ma, T. & Du, Q. & Zhao, W. & Liu, P. (2013) -
In order to compare the geographic variation of the morphological and reproductive characteristics between different populations of Takydromus wolteri, this study was conducted between April and August, 2011 and 2012. Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) and female reproductive output of the Takydromus wolteri population from Harbin (Heilongjiang Province) were studied with the method of field capturing and laboratory feeding. Our results showed that the Harbin population of T. wolteri was in SSD and the female was significant larger than the male in snout-vent length (SVL) (F1,62=15.337, P<0.001). The mean SVL of females was 55.86 mm while the mean SVL of males was 52.13 mm. Females had larger abdomen length (F1,61=4.937, P< 0.05) and males had larger heads (head length: F1,61=103.56, P<0.001; head width: F1,61=68.524, P<0.001) as the same SVL because larger females had a higher annual fecundity (r=0.732,F1,18=20.821,P<0.01) and reproductive output (r=0.681,F1,18=15.579, P<0.01). SSD was positively geographic variation in the T. wolteri of different population, and SVL of Harbin population in the north was obviously larger than Chuzhou population in the south in both sexes, which accorded with the Bergman’s rule.
马 涛,杜青霖,赵文阁,刘 鹏 (2013) -
为比较白条草蜥不同种群形态和繁殖特征的地理变异,于2011年和2012年的4—8月,通过野外 捕捉、实验室饲养的方法,对黑龙江省哈尔滨地区的白条草蜥(Takydromus wolteri)种群的两性异形和繁 殖输出进行研究。结果表明:白条草蜥的哈尔滨种群具有明显的两性异形现象,雌性和雄性平均体长分 别为 55.86 mm 和 52.13 mm,雌性的体长显著大于雄性(F1,62=15.337,P<0.001)。去除体长的影响,雌性具 有较大的腹长(F1,61=4.937,P<0.05),雄性具有较大的头部(头长:F1,61=103.56,P<0.001;头宽:F1,61=68.524, P<0.001);较大的雌性具有较高的年生殖力(r=0.732,F1,18=20.821,P<0.01)和年繁殖输出(r=0.681,F1,18= 15.579,P<0.01)。与以往研究相比,白条草蜥的两性异形现象具有明显的地理变异,北方的哈尔滨种群 两性的体长均明显大于南方的滁州种群两性的体长,符合贝格曼定律。 关键词:白条草蜥;形态特征;地理变异;两性异形;雌体繁殖
Ma, W.-W. & Liu, H. & Zhao, W.-G. & Liu, P. (2016) -
The complete mitogenome sequence of Takydromus amurensis (Squamata: Lacertidae) is determined using long PCR for the first time in this study. It is a circular molecule of 17 333 bp in length (GenBank accession number: KU641018). Similar to the most other lizards, the complete mtDNA sequence of T. amurensis contained two rRNA genes (12S rRNA and 16S rRNA), 22 tRNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs) and a control region (D-loop). The nucleotide composition was 31.23% A, 26.06% C, 13.91% G and 28.8% T. Mitochondrial genomes analyses based on NJ method yield phylogenetic trees, including 14 reported lizards belonging to three families (Lacertidae, Gekkonidae and Agamidae). These molecular data presented here provide a useful tool for systematic analyses of genus Takydromus.
Maca-Meyer, N. & Carranza, S. & Rando, J.C. & Arnold, E.N. & Cabrera, V.M. (2003) -
Ancient mitochondrial DNA sequences (378 base pairs of cytochrome b and 368 of 12S rRNA) extracted from a mum- mified extinct giant lizard, Gallotia goliath, from eastern Tenerife, Canary Islands, were used to assess the species status and relationship of this form within the genus. G. goliath is clearly a member of the G. simonyi group of the western Canary islands (Tenerife, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Palma) and is not closely related to the giant G. stehlini of Gran Canaria. Contrary to recent opinion, it is phylogenetically distinct, within the G. simonyi group, from the extant G. simonyi of El Hierro and also from the recently discovered live G. gomerana on La Gomera and from G. intermedia in north-western Tenerife. It may be the sister taxon of either all the other members of the G. simonyi group or of G. intermedia. The phylogenetic distinctness of G. goliath makes Tenerife unique among oce- anic islands in having had one giant and two medium-sized lizard species that were probably substantially herbiv- orous, the others being G. intermedia and G. galloti. Gallotia shows great community differences on other islands in the Canaries, two having a single small species, one a single giant, and three a giant and a medium-sized form.
Macát, Z. & Machac, O. (2024) -
Macát, Z. & Veselý, M. & Jablonski, D. (2015) -
The switch to frugivory in some members of the family Lacertidae is expected to be adaptations for island life, where commonly used prey sources are limited. Herein we reported upon our observation a new case of frugivory in Podarcis siculus from Istria, Croatia. During several excursions to Veruda Island near Pula we repeatedly photographed and observed feeding of these lizards on fruit remains and fresh fruits. Lizards tried to nibble and lick juice or took and swallow fleshy pieces from the fruits. The behavior was independent on season and was observed at both the rocky coast with a sparse vegetation cover as well as in grassy habitats in the center of the island.
MacColluch, R.D. & Fu, J. & Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. & Murphy, R.W. (1995) -
Genetic diversity at 37 allozyme loci was surveyed from Lacerta valentini (4 populations), L. portschinskii and L. rudis (1 population each). The number of polymorphic loci ranged from 1 (L. valentini) to 11 (L. rudis). Mean heterozygosity (direct count) ranged from 0.003 (L. valentini) to 0.071 (L. rudis). Nei`s (1978) genetic distance ranged from 0-0.03 among populations of L. valentini, 0.127-0.163 between L. valentini and L. rudis and 0.366-0.487 between L. portschinskii and the two other taxa. Indices of genetic variability for species having disjunct distributions were lower than in species with contiguous distributions, similar to the case of insular populations, which have lower values than do mainland populations.
MacCulloch, R.D. & Darevsky, I.S. & Murphy, R.W. & Fu, J. (1997) -
Genetic diversity at 35 allozyme loci was surveyed in Lacerta deljugini (3 populations) and L. praticola (2 populations). Indices of variability were consistent with those found in other Caucasian Lacerta. There was little genetic substructuring between two populations of L. prnticola despite considerable geographic separation. Conversely, populations of L. derjugini in close proximity to one another exhibited considerable substructuring.
MacCulloch, R.D. & Fu, J. & Darevsky, I.S. & Murphy, R.W. (2000) -
Diversity at 35 allozyme loci was examined in nine populations of the taxa currently included in Darevskia saxicola. The data support the recognition of the subspecies Darevskia s. saxicola and D. s. lindholmi as species. The remaining subspecies D. s. brauneri, D. s. darevskii and D. s. szczerbaki are conspecific although they can no longer be referred to Darevskia saxicola, but must be referred to Darevskia brauneri, whose name has priority. Considerable population substructuring was observed among the subspecies of Darevskia brauneri.
MacCulloch, R.D. & Murphy, R.W. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. (1995) -
Genetic diversity at 35 allozyme loci was surveyed in seven populations of Lacerta armeniaca. Fixed heterozygotes were present at 16 loci, with homozygotes at 17 loci. Variation occurred at two loci, one in each of two populations, indicating one widespread clone, one restricted clone, and one apparently restricted clone. The low level of variation in this species suggests a recent restricted origin, involving few parental individuals.
MacCulloch, R.D. & Murphy, R.W. & Fu, J. & Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F. (1997) -
Genetic diversity at 37 allozyme loci was surveyed in Lacerta portschinskii from contiguous populations and from a disjunct population. Indices of genetic diversity (heterozygosity, number of alleles per locus, and percentage of loci polymorphic) were greater in contiguous populations than in the smaller disjunct population. In this regard, disjunct populations appear to be similar to island populations. Indices of genetic diversity in Caucasian Lacerta are less than those reported from vagile lizard taxa and more similar to those of sit-and-wait predators.
MacCulloch, R.D. & Murphy, R.W. & Kupriyanova, L.A: & Darevsky, I.S. (1997) -
Among vertebrates, true parthenogenesis (self-perpetuating all-female species) occurs only in reptiles; these species are of hybrid origin. To date, all diploid parthenogenetic reptiles examined exhibit some genetic diversity, resulting in the existence of more than one clone. The sole exception to this is the Caucasian rock lizard Lacerta rostombekovi, which appears to consist of only a single clone.
MacGregor, H.E.A. (2016) -
Reproductive characters often vary geographically within species. This has led to the suggestion that traits related to reproduction evolve rapidly and that sexual selection is an important cause of diversification. Using the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, this thesis explores the consequences of interactions between reproductive characters and sexual selection in two environmental contexts: (i) following secondary contact between lineages that differ in secondary sexual characters, and (ii) following introduction to a cooler and more seasonal nonnative environment. To address this, I adopted an integrated approach, combining information on associations between reproductive characters, social behaviour, and reproductive success in an experimental setting with extensive documentation of phenotypic variation across native and non-native populations. Common wall lizards occupy a wide geographic range, spanning from western Spain to Turkey. Their phylogeographic structure is complex and composed of several genetically and phenotypically distinct lineages. In the first part of this thesis I examined how divergence in male sexual characters between two lineages – the Italian lineage, where males have highly exaggerated sexual traits, and the Western European lineage, where sexual traits in males are less expressed – mediates sexual selection and ultimately patterns of hybridization and introgression following secondary contact. Specifically, I combined an investigation of behavioural interactions and patterns of paternity in experimentally replicated mixed-lineage populations with genetic and phenotypic data from three independent zones of secondary contact. Experimentally, I show that Italian males have a significant advantage over Western European males in competition for females, leading to overall greater courtship and mating success, and consequently, asymmetric hybridization. Patterns of genetic and phenotypic introgression following secondary contact mirrored this directionality. Nuclear microsatellite markers revealed a westwards shift in the position of the hybrid cline compared to mitochondrial markers. Furthermore, clines in male visual sexual characters were shifted even further westwards into the Western European lineage, indicative of the rapid and adaptive displacement of Western European male sexual phenotypes. Combined with a lack of evidence for negative effects on hybrid offspring survival and their reproductive characters, these results demonstrate an important role for pre-copulatory sexual selection through male-male competition in shaping the genetic and phenotypic consequences of secondary contact. I then examined the consistency of these effects across different communication channels, specifically comparing the above results for visual characters with chemical characteristics of male femoral secretions used as scent marks. Despite chemical communication being considered an important feature of lizard reproductive behaviour, I find little evidence for a role of divergence between the lineages in chemical characters in hybridization or sexually selected introgression. In contrast to the extensive introgression of the visual characteristics of the Italian lineage into the Western European lineage, patterns of introgression in chemical profiles resembled that of nuclear microsatellite markers, implying that genetic divergence in chemical characters is selectively neutral. These results highlight the potentially differing functions for visual and chemical communication channels in lizards. Chemical characters in wall lizards may function primarily as an individual-based recognition system. In the second part of this thesis I examined divergence in female and male reproductive characters in response to a different climatic selection regime. Wall lizards that have been recently introduced into England (outside of their native distribution) experience a cooler, more seasonal climate that effectively restricts offspring recruitment to the first clutch of the season. This should exert strong directional selection on the reproductive investment of both females and males. Consistent with an adaptive response to climate, I show that non-native females in England produce relatively larger and heavier first seasonal clutches and smaller and lighter second seasonal clutches compared to native females. Despite non-native male fitness also depending almost entirely on the first clutch of the season, examination of male behaviour, dominance hierarchies, and phenotypic associations with mating and fertilization success in experimental populations revealed that non-native males do not alter their sexual strategies and compete aggressively to fertilize the second clutches from non-native females. These results highlight the potential for sex-specific limitations on rapid adaptive shifts in reproductive characters when male behaviour has been shaped by sexual selection regimes in past environments. Combined, this thesis provides evidence of the potential ways in which sexual selection may shape the evolutionary and ecological trajectory of populations across different environmental contexts.
MacGregor, H.E.A. & Lewandowsky, R.A.M. & D`Ettore, P. & Leroy, C. & Davies, N.W. & While, G.M. & Uller, T. (2017) -
Divergence in communication systems should influence the likelihood that individuals from different lineages interbreed, and consequently shape the direction and rate of hybridization. Here, we studied the role of chemical communication in hybridization, and its contribution to asymmetric and sexually selected introgression between two lineages of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis). Males of the two lineages differed in the chemical composition of their femoral secretions. Chemical profiles provided information regarding male secondary sexual characters, but the associations were variable and inconsistent between lineages. In experimental contact zones, chemical composition was weakly associated with male reproductive success, and did not predict the likelihood of hybridization. Consistent with these results, introgression of chemical profiles in a natural hybrid zone resembled that of neutral nuclear genetic markers overall, but one compound in particular (tocopherol methyl ether) matched closely the introgression of visual sexual characters. These results imply that associations among male chemical profiles, sexual characters, and reproductive success largely reflect transient and environmentally driven effects, and that genetic divergence in chemical composition is largely neutral. We therefore suggest that femoral secretions in wall lizards primarily provide information about residency and individual identity rather than function as sexual signals.
MacGregor, H.E.A. & While, G.M. & Barrett, J. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carazo, P. & Michaelidis, S. & Uller, T. (2016) -
1. Divergence in sexually selected traits in allopatry should affect the degree and direction of hybridization. However, few studies have established the causes and targets of sexual selection during secondary contact. 2. Common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) from north-central Italy have highly exaggerated male sexual traits compared to populations in Western Europe. Using experimental populations, we show that this creates asymmetries in male dominance, spatial habitat use and reproductive success upon secondary contact. Hybridization occurred almost exclusively between males of the Italian lineage and females of the Western European lineage. 3. We provide evidence to suggest stronger ongoing selection on male sexual traits within the dominant Italian lineage. However, these same characters did not predict hybridization, and hybrid matings contributed little to variance in male reproductive success. Instead, most hybrid offspring were sired by Italian males displaying phenotypes associated with lower within-lineage reproductive success. 4. Thus, highly directional hybridization arises because some Italian males are out-competed within their own lineage but remain competitive relative to males of the other lineage. 5. This pattern of hybridization is consistent with the direction of introgression in natural contact zones, but our data suggest that sexual selection acting through hybridization may be weak at the leading edge of natural hybrid zones.
MacGregor, H.E.A. & While, G.M. & Uller, T. (2017) -
Non-native animals can encounter very different environments than those they are adapted to. Functional changes in morphology, physiology and life-history following introduction show that organisms can adapt both fast and efficiently. It remains unclear, however, if female reproductive characters and male sexually selected behaviour show the same adaptive potential. Furthermore, the invasion success and evolutionary trajectory of non-native species might often depend on the ability of the sexes to coordinate shifts in characters associated with reproductive strategy. The common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, has been repeatedly introduced from southern Europe to England over the past 80 years. Lizards in England experience a cool, seasonal climate that effectively restricts recruitment to the first clutch of the season, whereas in their native range up to three clutches per season recruit. As a consequence, both females and males in non-native populations should benefit from reducing or even eliminating their reproductive investment in second clutches. Using a combination of field data and experiments, we show that non-native females produce relatively larger and heavier first seasonal clutches and smaller and lighter second seasonal clutches compared to native females. In contrast, non-native and native males do not differ in their territorial and sexual behaviour later in the season. An adaptive shift in male seasonal reproductive investment may be constrained because males use breeding females as cues for sexual behaviour. If this is so, we expect a general pattern across climatic regimes whereby female reproductive investment evolves first, with responses in males lagging behind.
Mach, V. (1978) -
Machado, A. (1984) -
Machado, A. (1985) -
Während die nur fossil bekannte Lacerta (Gallotia?) goliath Mertens, 1942, bis 1,50 m Gesamtlänge erreichen konnte, werden die größten heute lebenden Kanareneidechsen Gallotia stehlini (Schnkel, 1901), 80 cm lang. Die von der Ausrottung bedrohte Hierro-Rieseneidechse, Gallotia aff. simonyi, erreicht nur etwa 50 cm. Die topotypische Population von Gallotia simonyi (Steindachner, 1889) verschwand in diesem Jahrhundert von dem von ihr bewohnten Felseiland, ebenso wie ein fossiler Verwandter von einer anderen Insel. Die von früheren Autoren geäußerten Überlegungen und Vorstellungen über das Aussterben bzw. den Rückgang dieser Gruppe von Großlacerten werden kommentiert. Es wird postuliert, daß zur Verringerung zwischenartlicher Konkurrenz die Großeidechsen eine von den sympatrischen kleineren Arten verschiedene Populationsstruktur entwickelten, charakterisiert durch eine Anhäufung von Individuen der oberen Größenklassen (durch schnelles Wachstum). Die Konzentration von Genen in größeren Individuen bedeutet eine erhöhte Gefahr der Population durch Räuber, da die großen Eidechsen einen höheren „Beuteappetenz-Index“ (Indice de Apetencia sensu José Valverde, 1967) haben ala kleinere Exemplare. Im Gegensatz zu Populationen mit einem ausgewogenen Größenklassen-Verhältnis, wo es nur einen kleinen Prozentsatz großer Individuen gibt, kann Prädation auf die Populationen der Rieseneidechsen verheerende Auswirkungen haben. Die Einbürgerung von (für diese Insellebensräume zu großen) Raubtieren, wie Hunden und Katzen, durch den Menschen, und die gleichfalls gegebene Möglichkeit der Ausbeutung der Großeidechsen-Populationen zur Ernährung der Ureinwohner werden diskutiert, wobei einige zusätzliche historische Argumente die hier vorgestellte Hypothese stützen. Biologische Interaktionen mit vom Menschen eingebürgerten Räubern sind der ursächliche Faktor für den Rückgang der großen Kanareneidechsen.
Machado, A. & L. F. López-Jurado, A. Martín (1985) -
Machado, A.A. (1859) -
Machts, A. (2024) -
Macias, D. & Shin, Y. & Borzée, A. (2021) -
The ecology of most squamates from the Republic of Korea is poorly understood: information on tolerances to environmental variables, movement patterns, home range sizes, and other aspects of their natural history and ecological requirements are lacking. In turn, this lack of knowledge presents an obstacle to effective conservation management. Currently and at the national level, two of Korea’s eleven terrestrial snake species are listed as threatened or near threatened: Elaphe schrenckii and Sibynophis chinensis, and one out of the six lizard species (Eremias argus) is listed as threatened. However, various threats including habitat loss, climate change and poaching may have already but unknowingly elevated other Korean reptiles to threatened statuses. To help resource managers in developing conservation programs, we provide a summary of the literature on threats to Korean squamates, a national recommended threat status, and species accounts focused on Korean populations. We recommend listing Hebius vibakari, E. argus, Scincella huanrenensis and Gekko japonicus under a higher threat level than the one provided by either the Korean National Institute of Biological Resources or the IUCN Red List. Our results highlight that conservation plans are urgently needed for Korean squamates, mostly because of habitat destruction, and that additional research has to be conducted on most species as there is a clear need for integrated ecological studies and active monitoring programs.
Mackey, T.L. (2010) -
Habitat choice can be an important challenge for invasive species as they disperse to a novel environment. Habitat selection is especially important to ectotherms for temperature regulation, but overwintering habitat choice has not been well studied compared to habitat choice during the breeding season. The invasive common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, was introduced to Cincinnati, Ohio in the 1950s from Italy and has since spread throughout parts of southwest Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. Previous studies suggested that they are limited to limestone walls in urbanized areas, however, P. muralis could use railroad beds as dispersal corridors. We tested the hypothesis that wall lizards prefer habitats that facilitate overwinter survival. We predicted that P. muralis would choose habitats that were more buffered against freezing temperatures, and they would favor the limestone walls where they are most commonly found. Manipulative field experiments, designed to test habitat selection between rock, wall, and log substrates, showed that the small rock piles similar to railroad beds buffer best against cold weather. P. muralis did not prefer any particular substrate, nor did they prefer warmer individual piles, but overwinter survival of lizards was positively associated with habitat piles that stayed warmer during the coldest temperatures. These findings suggest that habitat choice is not a key factor in the ability of P. muralis to survive the colder winters of their introduced range. In light of the apparent risk associated with freezing, selection for other mechanisms to tolerate freezing may be occurring. Contrary to expectations, wall lizards do not appear to be restricted to rock walls, and further spread and increased contact with native species is likely.
Madawala, M. & Surasinghe, T. & De Silva, A. & Gabadage, D. & Botejue, M. & Peabotuwage, I. & Kandambi, D. & Karunarathna, S. (2019) -
Jaffna peninsula is quite an unexplored area of Sri Lanka’s lowland dry zone. We constructed a species checklist for all herpetofauna of this area based on a short-term field survey, a comprehensive literature review, museum specimens, and observations made by field herpetologists. Based on 200 × 10 m belt transects, we surveyed herpetofauna both during day and night time, in 10 different types of habitats. The species checklist we compiled comprised 44 species of reptiles (including three nationally threatened, one globally threatened, and eight endemic species) and 15 species of amphibians (including one nationally threatened and three endemic species). Based on published literature, museum specimens, expert opinions, and current field survey, we documented 85 species of herpetofauna in this area. Of this entire list, we were unable to record the presence of 25 species through our field survey. Our field survey documented 18 species that were not previously reported from Jaffna Peninsula. Our study revealed that inland water bodies, cultivated lands, home gardens, and coastal beaches are of high impor- tance for native herpetofauna of Jaffna peninsula. Many human disturbances, such as habitat alterations, vengeful killing, consumption overexploitation, and road mortality are the key threats encountered by herpetofauna in Jaffna. Our intention of this study is to compile baseline information on diversity of amphibians and reptiles to support more detailed studies in future and assist conservation and management decisions within the region. We believe that our study will provide a basic foundation for conservation planning and future research.
Madden, I. & K.M. Brock (2018) -
Maddock, A.H. & Zaloumis, G. (1987) -
Madsen, T. & Olsson, M. & Gullberg, A. & Wittzell, A. & Tegelström, H. (2000) -
Because low genetic diversity may threaten the viability of isolated populations, conservation biologists have devoted much effort to quantify genetic variation. Two techniques routinely used involve levels of mini- and microsatellite polymorphism, with the assumption that levels of variation at these parts of the genome will be reflected in levels of variation at other loci. Our data challenge this assumption. We studied six populations of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) and five populations of adders (Vipera berus), differing considerably in size and degree of isolation. They, therefore, offer an opportunity to examine how population parameters affect genetic variation at different parts of the genome. Relative population size (based on degree of isolation and number of animals) was not correlated with either minisatellite variability or microsatellite heterozygosity. However, our measures of genetic diversity at the Mhc class I loci of both sand lizards and adders revealed a significant correlation between relative population size and Mhc polymorphism: non-isolated/larger populations exhibited higher genetic diversity than did isolated/small populations. Consequently, only the Mhc-based estimates of genetic diversity yielded results in agreement with population genetic theory.
Maesen, L.J. van de (1917) -
Mager, W. (2001) -
Maggio, T. & Faraone, F.P. & Arcuelo, M. & Lo Valvo, M. (2005) -
Maggiore, G. & Minonne, F. & Moscatello, S. (2016) -
Magnin (1936) -
Magnone, M.C. & Jacobmeier, B. & Bertolucci, C. & Foa, A & Albrecht, U. (2005) -
When exposed to the cold, the body temperature of the ruin lizard (Podarcis sicula ), an ectothermic vertebrate, comes into equilibrium with that low environmental temperature. During this time, the behavioral output of the circadian clock, locomotor activity, disappears. We tested the activity of the circadian clockwork at low temperature (6 8C) by following the expression of one of its essential components, the Period2 (Per2 ) gene. Here we show that lizard Per2 (lPer2 ) expression, which is rhythmic and paralleling the behavioral rhythm of locomotor activity at higher temperature (29 8C), becomes constantly high at low temperature. When lizards are re-exposed to high temperature, rhythmic lPer2 expression is re-established after 2 days of adaptation and coincides with onset of locomotor activity. The alteration of the lPer2 expression pattern at low temperature indicates that the activity of the molecular feedback loop is modified under these conditions.
Magomedova, R.M. & Alieva, S.Z. & Magomedova, A.M. (2021) -
Magraner, J. (1986) -
Maher, M.J. (1961) -
Mahmoud, A.D. (2003) -
Mahmoud, F.A. & Gadrel-Rab, A.G. & Saber, S.A. & ElSalkh, B.A. & Dahshan, A.A. & Gewily, D.J. (2019) -
Background The present study aimed to illustrate comparative morphological, histological, and functional variations of the hyoid apparatus of Acanthodactylus boskianus and Ptyodactylus guttatus. Result The hyoid apparatuses and musculature of the two investigated species are well-developed. The hyoid apparatuses exhibit high mobility with different articulation sites between their skeletal elements. The degree of ossification of the hyoid apparatus of gecko is more developed than that of the lacertid lizard. In P. guttatus, a well-developed synchondrosis articulation appears between the basihyoid and ceratobranchialis of the hyoid apparatus. Meanwhile, in A. boskianus, the articular ligament which appears between basihyoid and ceratobranchialis is less developed and also appears as a ligament connection between the two parts of hyoid cornua in which ligaments provide more mobility to the hyoid of lacertid lizard. Conclusion The results reflect a phylogenetically informative character about these clad and explain the different functional demands imposed on the hyoid apparatus as well as confirm the important role of hyoid apparatus in the movement of the tongue during the prey transport.
Mahony, S. & Hasan, K. & Kabir, M. & Ahmed, M. & Hossain, K. (2009) -
We present here details of a collection of herpetofauna from Bangladesh, held at the Jahangirnagar University Herpetological Group, Dhaka. This collection is comprised of at least 58 species, six are tentatively identi ed to their nearest described species which themselves are recognised to consist of more than one cryptic species. Four species could not be accurately identi ed to species level. It is likely that some of these ten “species” represent cryptic species and possibly undescribed taxa. Several of the localities presented here provide the rst con rmed localities for species previously listed as present in Bangladesh, but were not con rmed with locality or specimen data. Other species in the collection represent previously unknown localities, e.g., Euphlyctis hexadactylus, Uperodon globulosus and Cyrtodactylus sp. Eutropis multifasciata, and Hylarana cf. nigrovittata, are here recorded from Bangladesh for the rst time based on our collections and Takydromus khasiensis is also reported for the rst time from Bangladesh based on apparently unpublished specimens in the collection of the California Academy of Science.
Mahtout, D. & Meghlaoui, B. (2016) -
Mai, E. (2019) -
Maia, J.P. & Harris, D.J. & Carranza, S. & Gómez-Díaz, E. (2014) -
Identifying factors influencing infection patterns among hosts is critical for our understanding of the evolution and impact of parasitism in natural populations. However, the correct estimation of infection parameters depends on the performance of detection and quantification methods. In this study, we designed a quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay targeting the 18 S rRNA gene to estimate prevalence and intensity of Hepatozoon infection and compared its performance with microscopy and PCR. Using qPCR, we also compared various protocols that differ in the biological source and the extraction methods. Our results show that the qPCR approach on DNA extracted from blood samples, regardless of the extraction protocol, provided the most sensitive estimates of Hepatozoon infection parameters; while allowed us to differentiate between mixed infections of Adeleorinid (Hepatozoon) and Eimeriorinid (Schellackia and Lankesterella), based on the analysis of melting curves. We also show that tissue and saline methods can be used as low-cost alternatives in parasitological studies. The next step was to test our qPCR assay in a biological context, and for this purpose we investigated infection patterns between two sympatric lacertid species, which are naturally infected with apicomplexan hemoparasites, such as the genera Schellackia (Eimeriorina) and Hepatozoon (Adeleorina). From a biological standpoint, we found a positive correlation between Hepatozoon intensity of infection and host body size within each host species, being significantly higher in males, and higher in the smaller sized host species. These variations can be associated with a number of host intrinsic factors, like hormonal and immunological traits, that require further investigation. Our findings are relevant as they pinpoint the importance of accounting for methodological issues to better estimate infection in parasitological studies, and illustrate how between-host factors can influence parasite distributions in sympatric natural populations.
Maia, J.P.M.C. & Harris, D.J. & Perera, A. (2010) -
Maia, J.P.M.C. & Harris, D.J. & Perera, A. (2011) -
The prevalence of Hepatozoon parasites in 460 lizards from North Africa was studied by amplification and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene. The phylogenetic analysis of the 18S rRNA gene provides new insights into the phylogeny of these parasites with multiple genetically distinct lineages recovered. Parasite prevalence differed significantly between lacertid lizards and geckos. Our results show that there is limited host specificity and no clear relation to the geographical distribution of Hepatozoon parasites.
Maia, J.P.M.C. & Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. (2012) -
The genus Hepatozoon Miller, 1908 (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) is composed of intracellular haemogregarine parasites that are widely distributed among all tetrapod groups. The present study combines microscopic and molecular data on haemogregarine parasites from lizards in the western Mediterranean. We screened tissue samples and examined blood smears for the presence of species of Hepatozoon from four lizards, namely Algyroides marchi Valverde, endemic to Southeast Spain, Podarcis bocagei Seoane from Spain and Portugal, P hispanica Steindachner from Spain, and P lilfordi Günther from Cabrera, Balearic Islands (Spain). Our results show that prevalence and intensity of Hepatozoon parasites vary between and within lizard species from different regions. Algyroides marchi and P bocagei from Spain had the lowest values, whereas P hispanica had the highest. Phylogeny based on 18S rRNA gene sequences indicates that most of the new Hepatozoon sequences are part of a clade exclusive from North African and Iberian lizards, except for a single P bocagei isolate that is found related to another clade including isolates from other reptile host species and rodents. Interestingly, isolates from Algyroides form a distinct monophyletic subgroup, which could be a signal of strict host-specificity within this host genus.
Maier, A.R.M. & Cadar, A.M. (2021) -
Maier, A.R.M. & Cadar, A.M. & Covaciu-Marcov, S.D. (2020) -
Food composition of road-killed Lacerta viridis was studied on 41 individuals from the scientific collection of the University of Oradea, Romania. They were collected from different roads in the country between 1998-2019. All lizards had stomach contents. Although in most cases the stomach contents were partially digested, the preys could be identified at a taxonomical level comparable with the one achieved in other lizard feeding studies. The analysed L. viridis individuals had consumed 275 preys, which belong to 25 taxa, as well as inorganic elements and vegetal remains. The most important preys were Orthoptera, Araneidae and Coleoptera. The differences in lizards food composition according to geographic origin were not significant. Our results confirm that this species food composition can be studied on road killed individuals, but also proves the uniformity of its food, at least in the Balkan Peninsula.
Maier, A.R.M. & Cupsa, D. & Ferenti, S. & Cadar, A.M. (2022) -
In the summer of 2021 we identified three new distribution localities of Darevskia praticola north of the Mureș River, and one locality south of the river. The habitats populated by D. praticola (broad-leaved forest with wet areas) and the altitude (175–245 m) of the new records are typical for this species. Nevertheless, D. praticola had not been recorded in 12 other localities with similar conditions from an area previously considered suitable for this species. Thus, D. praticola may be slowly expanding from a bridgehead north of the Mureș River, occupying new favorable habitats. Probably, D. praticola recently crossed the Mureș River, possibly on a bridge, or with the timber trucks which exploit the woods from both sides of the river.
Maio, N. & Guarino, F.M. & D`Amora, G. & Picariello, O. (2000) -
Maio, N. & Guarino, F.M. & D`Amora, G. & Picariello, O. (2001) -
Maixner, M. & Porten, M. & Schmitt, T. (2012) -
Vineyards as permanent cropping systems with long rotation periods are relatively stable agro-ecosystems. Viticulture on steep slopes is characterized by particular conditions for vineyard management as well as specific meso- and microclimatic conditions and a highly structured landscape. Fauna and flora of these habitats are characterized by xerothermic species as well as species that are adapted to the intermediate degree of disturbance by the vineyard management. In spite of the importance of steep slope vineyards for both landscape and nature conservation, little is known so far about the interactions between the quality and intensity of vineyard management on steep slopes with biodiversity. A current research project focusing on this question is described.
Majláth, I. & Majlathova, V. (2009) -
The escape behavior of the green lizard (Lacerta viridis) was investigated in natural conditions of the Slovak Karst, Slovakia. The seasonal changes of approach distances and types of escape behavior were monitored for both sexes, also in relation to differences in anthropogenic influence. In our study, the escape behavior of green lizard changed significantly during the season, and differ significantly between localities and in respect to human disturbance. At the beginning of the season, females stayed in close proximity to a refuge and hid immediately after being disturbed. Among males, the distance to and from a refuge was longer and any accessible protrusions were used to hide. The approach distance was greater among males. During the mating period, approach distance for females and males was similar and both sexes hid in a refuge. However, after the mating period, the approach distance for females was decreasing, whereas that of males begun to increase.
Majláth, I. & Smajada, B. & Mester, M. & Mizura, J. & Fekiac, V. (2000) -
Majlath, I. & Smajda, B. & Kundrat, M. (1997) -
Majláth, J. & Fekiac, V. & Smajda, B. & Mester, M. & Mizura, J. (2000) -
Majláthová, V. & Majláth, I. & Derdáková, M. & Vichová, B. & Pet`ko, B. (2006) -
In Europe, spirochetes within the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex are transmitted by Ixodes ricinus ticks. Specific associations are described between reservoir hosts and individual genospecies. We focused on green lizard (Lacerta viridis) as a host for ticks and potential host for borreliae. In 2004 and 2005, a total of 146 green lizards infested by ticks were captured, and 469 I. ricinus ticks were removed. Borrelial infection was detected in 16.6% of ticks from lizards. Of 102 skin biopsy specimens collected from lizards, 18.6% tested positive. The most frequently detected genospecies was B. lusitaniae (77.9%–94.7%). More than 19% of questing I. ricinus collected in areas where lizards were sampled tested positive for borreliae. B. garinii was the dominant species, and B. lusitaniae represented 11.1%. The presence of B. lusitaniae in skin biopsy specimens and in ticks that had fed on green lizards implicates this species in the transmission cycle of B. lusitaniae.
Majláthová, V. & Majláth, I. & Haklová, B. & Hromada, M. & Ekner, A. & Antcak, M. & Tryjanowski, P. (2010) -
We investigated the occurrence of blood parasites of two lizard species: the common or viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara) and the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) in western Poland. Selected traits of lizard body morphology were studied with respect to the presence and intensity of haematozoan infection in blood samples collected from 218 adult lizards; 88 of the common lizard and 130 of the sand lizard. Haemogregarinid blood parasites were found to be the common parasite of both lizard species in studied locality with prevalence 39.8 (95% CL, 29.5–50.8) for Z. vivipara and 22.3 (95% CL, 15.5–30.4) for L. agilis. Incidence of parasitemia did not differ between sexes and was not correlated with morphological traits or presence of ectoparasites—Ixodes ricinus ticks. However, a significant difference between the two species of lizards was a greater frequency of haemogregarinid parasitism in Z. vivipara.
Majláthová, V. & Majláth, I. & Hromada, M. & Tryjanowski, P. & Bona, M. & Antczak, M. & Vichoiva, B. & Dzimko, S. & Mihalca, A. & Petko, B. (2008) -
In order to examine the role of Lacerta agilis in the transmission cycle of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, lizards were captured in three different localities in Slovakia, Poland, and Romania. Skin biopsy specimens from collar scales and ticks feeding on the lizards at the time of capture were collected. In total, 87 individuals (11 in Slovakia, 48 in Poland, 28 in Romania) of L. agilis were captured. Altogether, 245 (74, 74, 97) larvae and 191 (78, 113, 0) nymphs were removed from captured lizards. Borrelial infection was detected by PCR amplifying a fragment of the 5S–23S rDNA intergenic spacer and genotyping by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). When examining the presence of borreliae in biopsy specimens, striking differences between separate populations were observed. Whilst none of the biopsy specimens from L. agilis from Poland were positive for B. burgdorferi s.l., 45% of the sand lizards from Slovakia and 57% from Romania were positive. B. lusitaniae was confirmed in all positive biopsy specimens. The prevalence of borreliae in ticks that had fed on lizards was 6% in Poland, 21% in Slovakia, and 13% in Romania. While B. lusitaniae was the only genospecies in ticks from Slovakia (except for 2 larvae infected with B. afzelii) and Romania, it represented 64% and B. valaisiana 27% of the borrelia infections in ticks from lizards captured in Poland. The highest probability of ticks to get infected expressed as specific infectivity of lizards was recorded in Slovakia (0.102) and the lowest in Poland (0.003). Our findings underline the importance of the sand lizard in the transmission cycle of B. lusitaniae.
Makarov, A.V. & Bochkareva, E.N. & Sergazinova, Z.M. (2022) -
Spatial changes in the population density and species diversity of amphibians and reptiles are described on the basis of material collected in 1998, 2002, and 2014–2016. The spatial and typological structures of their populations were identified and analyzed, and the strength of the connection between the heterogeneity of their communities and the main structure-forming factors of the environment was assessed. Three species of amphibians have been identified on the territory of the cis-Altai Plain during the research, common toad (Bufo bufo (Linnaeus 1758)), moor frog (Rana arvalis Nilsson 1842), and lake frog (Pelophilax ridibundus (Pallas 1771)), as well as four species of reptiles, sand lizard (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus 1758), viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara Jacquin 1787), common snake (Natrix natrix (Linnaeus 1758)), and common viper (Vipera berus (Linnaeus 1758)). The moor frog absolutely predominates in the population of amphibians (93%), the share of the common toad and lake frog is significantly lower, and the sand and viviparous lizards predominate in the communities of reptiles (48 and 46%). It is shown that amphibians and reptiles are unevenly distributed over the territory, and their greatest abundance and species diversity are typical for the forest–steppe part of the cis-Altai Plain. With an increase in the area of steppe and plowed landscapes and a decrease in the proportion of forests in the central and western parts of the cis-Altai Plain, the locality of their distribution over the territory increases. The population density of amphibians, taking into account the underyearlings, reaches the highest values near the breeding water bodies and does not depend on the landscape specifics of the environment. Excluding underyearlings, the highest total abundance of amphibians is characteristic of lowland bogs, floodplain habitats, and relatively moist small-leaved forests. The majority of reptiles live in forested habitats, while the highest abundance rates are typical for small-leaved and humid birch–pine forests and significantly lower for other habitats. The spatial heterogeneity of the amphibian population is determined, first of all, by differences in the moisture content and food supply of habitats, and anthropogenic transformation of the environment in the form of grazing, which leads to trampling of the vegetation cover and compaction of the topsoil, the degree of afforestation, and the composition of forest-forming species, moisture, and food supply have a significant impact on reptiles.
Makokha, J.S. (2006) -
The present study aims to determine the phylogenetic relationships among the sand lizards, Pedioplanis. In addition, a single mitochondrial gene is used to investigate the geographic genetic structure of the widey distributed P. burchelli. With 11 species, Pedioplanis is the most speciose genus among the southern African genera of the family Lacertidae. All the species are restricted to the subcontinent with the exception of three (P. namaquensis, P. undata and P. benguellensis), which extend their range northwards into Angola. A total of 2200 nucleotide positions derived from two mitochondrial markers (ND2 and 16S rRNA) and one nuclear gene (RAG-1) are used to determine the phylogenetic relationships among ten of the eleven Pedioplanis species. The first well resolved gene tree for the genus, drawn from 100 individuals, is presented and this is largely congruent with a phylogeny derived from morphology. Contrary to some previous suggestions, Pedioplanis forms a monophyletic assemblage with Heliobolus and Nucras. The genus Pedioplanis is monophyletic with P. burchelli/P. laticeps forming a sister clade to all the remaining congeners. Two distinct geographic lineages can be identified within the widespread P. namaquensis; one occurs in Namibia, while the other occurs in South Africa. The “P. undata” species complex is monophyletic, but one of its constituent species, P. inornata, is paraphyletic. Relationships among the subspecies of P. lineoocellata are much more complex than previously documented. An isolated population previously assigned to P. l. pulchella is paraphyletic and sister to the three named subspecies. The phylogeny identifies two biogeographical groupings that probably diverged during the mid-Miocene. The development of the Benguella Current could have initiated isolation mechanisms associated with changes in habitat that could have generated barriers and played a role in the evolution of this group. At the lower taxonomic level, the mtDNA phylogeographic structure of the wide spread P. burchelli in South Africa reveal at least six distinct clades that are geographically partitioned. The first one is restricted to the eastern mountains along the Great Escarpment (GE). The next three are found along the Cape Fold Mountains (CFM): the north-west CFM, central CFM and eastern CFM. The fifth one shares samples from central CFM and GE. The last clade is restricted to the eastern central mountains of the GE. These six geographic groupings are genetically divergent from each other and they started separating in the early Pliocene period. Phylogeographic studies on other taxa in the region have found different levels of genetic structuring among or within taxa. The fact that P. burchelli is restricted to high altitude areas could have resulted in limited dispersal and consequently contributed to its geographic structure. However, the exact cause of the pattern obtained is not readily apparent. Habitat fragmentation in the past is probably one of the most influential factors shaping the genetic distribution of the species across South Africa. The inclusion of nuclear markers will shed more light on the evolutionary history of P. burchelli in South Africa.
Makokha, J.S. & Bauer, A.M. & Mayer, W. & Matthee, C.A. (2007) -
The diversity of lacertid lizards in Africa is highest in the southern African subcontinent, where over two-thirds of the species are endemic. With eleven currently recognized species, Pedioplanis is the most diverse among the southern African genera. In this study we use 2200 nucleotide positions derived from two mitochondrial markers (ND2 and 16S rRNA) and one nuclear gene (RAG-1) to (i) assess the phylogeny of Pedioplanis and (ii) estimate divergence time among lineages using the relaxed molecular clock method. Individual analyses of each gene separately supported different nodes in the phylogeny and the combined analysis yielded more well supported relationships. We present the first, well-resolved gene tree for the genus Pedioplanis and this is largely congruent with a phylogeny derived from morphology. Contrary to previous suggestions Heliobolus/Nucras are sister to Pedioplanis. The genus Pedioplanis is monophyletic, with P. burchelli/P. laticeps forming a clade that is sister to all the remaining congeners. Two distinct geographic lineages can be identified within the widespread P. namaquensis; one occurs in Namibia, while the other occurs in South Africa. The P. undata species complex is monophyletic, but one of its constituent species, P. inornata, is paraphyletic. Relationships among the subspecies of P. lineoocellata are much more complex than previously documented. An isolated population previously assigned to P. l. pulchella is paraphyletic and sister to the three named subspecies. The phylogeny identifies two biogeographical clades that probably diverged during the mid-Miocene, after the development of the Benguella Current. This probably led to habitat changes associated with climate and, in conjunction with physical barriers (Great Escarpment), contributed towards speciation within the genus Pedioplanis.
Malashichev, Y.B. (2001) -
Sacrum and pelvis structure and development in four species of Lacertidae currently assigned to different genera are studied: Lacerta agilis , L. vivipara , L. saxicola , Podarcis muralis. Size, shape, and position re- lationships between the cartilaginous elements as well as patterns and sequence of chondrification and os- sification are given. Two sacral segments are characterized by a number of markers such as the branching of iliac arteries, development of the paired lymphatic hearts, and degeneration of sacral myomeres begin- ning from the dividing sacral myoseptum. Lizard species differ one from another by the number of presacral vertebrae and the extent of ossification. Degeneration of sacral myomeres and formation of the sacral gap in myomeres play a crucial role in development of sacral ribs and in the direction of their growth. Sacral vertebrae are defined as vertebrae, which ribs or transverse processes develop at the place of the sacral gap. There are ribs vs. diapophyses in Lacertidae and most probably in other lizards. Caudal ribs are not found, but prerequisites for their development take place, so they might be expected as a rare anomaly in Lacertidae. There is a strict order of maturation of skeletal elements: vertebral centra and neu- ral arches, ilium, pubis, ischium and sacral ribs, which has its reflection in the adult phenotype. Additional elements of the pelvic girdle, namely, epipubis, epiischium, and hypoischium develop along the axial fi- brous ligament and undergo chondrification and calcification separately. A hypothesis that the overall shape of the pelvic girdle is formed under the influence of the visceral cavity is partly supported. Cause-and-effect explanations of sacrum and pelvis morphogenesis are given. Certain anomalies of sacral structure are described and discussed in developmental terms.
Malberg, C. & Schäberle, A. (2017) -
Maletzky, A. (2018) -
Maletzky, A. & Hattinger, A. & Moosbrugger, K. & Schweiger, S. (2011) -
Malherbe, A. (1854) -
Malimonov, V.V. (2007) -
Malimonov, V.V. (2010) -
The spatial distribution of viviparous lizard in the Yekaterinburg park zone is considered. Territorial dis- tinctions of the morphophysiological features and folidosis of Zootoca vivipara are shown. Possible causes of such distinctions are discussed.
Малимонов В.В. (2010) -
Рассматривается пространственное распределение живородящей ящерицы в лесопарковой зоне Екатеринбурга. Показаны территориальные различия морфофизиологических признаков и фолидоза Zootoca vivipara в пределах города. Обсуждаются причины подобных различий.
Malkmus, R, (1997) -
Die Serra de Säo Mamede mit ihrem collinen Umland (Provinz Alto Alentejo/ Portugal) ist Gegenstand einer herpetofaunistischen Studie. Das isoliert auf einer 300 m hoch liegenden Ebene aufbauende Gebirgssystem überschreitet als einziges in Portugal südlich des Rio Tejo die l 000 m-Grenze. Die klimatischen Bedingungen weichen vom Etesienklima des Umlandes durch atlantische Klimakomponenten (hohe Niederschläge und Luftfeuchte, tiefere Temperaturen) deutlich ab. Diese Voraussetzungen begünstigen das sympatrische Vorkommen mediterraner und atlantischer Floren- und Faunenelemente und dadurch eine hohe Artendiversität. Mit 15 Amphibien- bzw. 20 Reptilienarten beherbergt das Untersuchungsgebiet 82 % der Amphibien- und 74 % der Reptilienarten Kontinentalportugals und zählt somit zu den artenreichsten Regionen des Landes. Bemerkenswert sind die als glaziale Relikte interpretierten isolierten Populationen der 3 iberoatlantischen Endemiten Alytes obstetricans boscai, Rana iberica und Lacerta schreiben. Während Lacerta schreiben noch 2 weitere Montanisolate südlich des Tejo aufweist, beschränkt sich das Vorkommen von Alytes obstetricans boscai und Rana iberica auf die Serra de Säo Mamede.
Malkmus, R. (1976) -
Malkmus, R. (1979) -
Malkmus, R. (1981) -
ln der vorliegenden Arbeit wird die Herpetofauna von über 50 portugiesischen Gebirgszügen zusammengestellt: für jedes Gebirge der hõchste bisher bekannte Fundort der einzelnen Arten mit Hôhenangabe. Es ist das Ergebnis vierjiähriger Untersuchungen (1976-1980).
In the region of Oukai:meden in the High Atlas, three amphibian species reach the maximum of cheir venical discribution: Discoglossus pictus 2600 m, Hyla meridionalis 2650 m, and Bufo mauritanicus 2600 m.
Malkmus, R. (1982) -
This survey is presenting the geographical range of 17 amphibian and 29 reptile species (including the marine turtles) known to occur in Portugal, based on available data from the literature as well as ehe author`s own observations during the years 1976- 1981. It is the first attempt to map exactly the herpetofauna of a southern European country. Data are given concerning the horizontal and vertical distribution of each species, the density of distribution as well as the typical habitats, the latter being described in some detail. The rhythm of activity of most of the species depends on the different climatic conditions within this country. The few available phenological data are sum- marized.
In northeastern Portugal a specimen of Lacerta lepida was observed that escaped into a brook where it hid among submerse vegetation. There the lizard stayed for four minutes before it tried to reach the land again.
Malkmus, R. (1983) -
The results of two excursions (winter 1982/83 and spring 1983) to Portugal require the present additional note to my paper: `Contribution to the knowledge of the distribution of the Portuguese herpetofauna.` Remarkable new distributional data are provided for Chioglossa lusitanica, Alytes cisternasii, Pelobates cultripes, Tarentola mauritanica, Podarcis hispanica and Psammodromus hispanicus.
Malkmus, R. (1984) -
Nach kritischer Wertung der bisher zur Verbreitung von Acanthodactylus erythrurus in Portugal publizierten Daten werden alle 29 bekannt gewordenen Fundpunkte subsummiert. 68 % der Fundorte liegen auf sandigen Flächen, 32 % in Felszonen der „Iberischen Masse“. Die Vegetationsausstattung der Habitate ist sehr einheitlich: lichter Wald, baumfreie offene Landschaft, großflächig vegetationsfreie Zonen mit insulär stehenden Sträuchern. Das Maximum der vertikalen Verbreitung liegt in Portugal bei 690 m. Die Acanthodactylus-Populationen sind meist homotypisch; eine Vergesellschaftung ist am ehesten noch mit Psammodromus algirus zu beobachten.
Malkmus, R. (1985) -
Microsatellite repeats are one of the most widespread elements of the eukaryotic genome, but are poorly studied in species with clonal reproduction. PCR analysis and DNA sequencing were used to study the molecular structure of the allelic variants of microsatellite locus Du47D in the parthenogenetic species Darevskia unisexualis and its evolutionary ancestors, bisexual species D. raddei and D. valentini, of the genus Darevskia (Lacerta saxicola complex). Sequencing showed that the allelic variants of the D. unisexualis Du47D locus and the alleles of its D. raddei and D. valentini orthologs have a perfect microsatellite cluster structure, differ in number of ATT monomeric units, and have certain species specific combinations of nucleotide substitutions, deletions, and insertions in the microsatellite flanking DNA sequences. The Du47D alleles that the parthenogenetic species inherited from D. valentini or from D. raddei were identified.
Malkmus, R. (1986) -
Malkmus, R. (1987) -
Der hier herpetologisch untersuchte Raum schließt sich unmittelbar östlich an das gleichsmning durchforschte Areal zwischen Ericeira und Sintra (vgl. MALKMus 1979 b) an. Die vorliegende Arbeit soll als 2. Teil der ehen zitierten verstanden weIden. Da häufig auf dieses westlich liegende Gebiet bezug genommen wird, wird es aus Gründen der Platzersparnis im weiteren Text als A, bezeichnet Nachdem das Gebiet in seinem südöstlichen Teil fast die nördlichen Ausläufer der Llssaboner Vorortzeoae Loures/Guerreiros tangiert, möchte man annehmen, daß ein solches Kartierungsvorhaben nach dem Studium der Literatur auf der Basis eines reichen Datenmaterials aufbauen könnte. Mit Verwunderung m`ß man jedoch feststellen, daß nicht mehr als 2 Fundpunkte zur Verfügung stehen (CRESPO 1791, 1972). Somit smd alle nachgenannten Daten Neunachwelse für das Gebiet, die erstmals in den Kartierungsatlas (MALKMUS 1982 c) aufgenommen wurden. Verteilt auf 41 Exkursionen wurde die Untersuchungsfläche zwischen November 1977 und Juni 1981 systematisch kartiert. Der erfahrene Feldherpetologe weiß, daß dies nicht genügt, um in einem Gebiet diesen Umfanges auch Dur annähernd umfassend die oben genannte Zielsetzung zu erreichen. Der hier publizierte Aufsatz will deshalb auch mehr Anregung zur Weiterarbeit sein, als ein abgeschlossenes Forschungsvorhaben beschreiben.
Malkmus, R. (1988) -
Malkmus, R. (1989) -
Malkmus, R. (1990) -
Malkmus, R. (1995) -
In the Isle of Madeira, with its highly diverse climat zones, Podarcis dugesii (MILNE-EDWARDS, 1829) is found in almost all habitats: rubble shores and cliffs, rocky structures in agricultural land, subarid zones on the Lourenço Peninsula, the highest ridges of the central mountains, and rocks in the Launis woods; from the supralitoral up to the summit of the mountains (1861 m a.s.l.)
In the Central Spessart / Germany a female of Lacerta agilis was observed in activity (scratching, digging; little change of place) on warm evenings in June/July up to 2230 outside of the hiding place. The sandy ground was permanently some degrees higher than the air temperature.
Malkmus, R. (1996) -
The Madeiran Lizard Teira dugesii shows during basking a special `feet up` attitude that is described in detail.
Malkmus, R. (1997) -
Malkmus, R. (1999) -
Die Verbreitung der Amphibien und Reptilien Südost-Portugals — östlich der Linie Albufeira-Ourique und südlich des Rio Terges — sind Gegenstand dieser Veröffentlichung. Nach Darstellung der geologischen und klimatischen Bedingungen erfolgt eine Habitatcharakterisierung auf der Basis von Vegetationseinheiten. Ein kurzer Abriß zur Geschichte der Herpetofaunistik des Untersuchungsgebietes zeigt, daß die ersten Fundortmeldungen bis 1879 zurückzuverfolgen sind. Es wurden 12 Amphibienund 22 Reptilienarten (einschließlich 2 mariner Schildkröten) registriert - 62 % der Herpetofauna Festland-Portugals. Die Verbreitungsdarstellung der einzelnen Arten erfolgt in Form einer Punktkartierung. Habitatstruktur, geologische, hydrologische und klimatische Voraussetzungen sind in den einzelnen Landschaftsgroßräumen teilweise sehr unterschiedlich mit einer entsprechend unterschiedlichen Artenzusammensetzung der sie besiedelnden Herpetozönosen und zum Teil scharfen Verbreitungsgrenzen einzelner Arten. Die größte Artendiversität (12 Amphibien, 20 Reptilien) beherbergen die requisitenreichen zum Teil mit Eichenhainen durchsetzten Macchien, während Pinus- und Ewcs/i/pfus-Aufforstungen und Extremstandorte (Dünen, Marschwiesen) weniger als 5 Arten aufweisen. Großflächige anthropogene Eingriffe (forstliche Monokulturen, touristische Erschließung und Zersiedlung der Küstenzone, starke Verschmutzung der Fließgewässer) der letzten zehn Jahre führten regional besonders unter den Amphibienbeständen zu starken Rückgängen.
Malkmus, R. (2001) -
Malkmus, R. (2002) -
Die auf vier Reisen zwischen 1996 und 2000 in vier alpinen Gebirgsstöcken (Totes Gebirge, Rottenmaner Taueren, Kreuzeckgruppe, Rätikon) gesammelten Daten zur Verbreitung der Amphibien, Reptilien und Libellen werden zusammengestellt.
Es werden die Verbreitungsverhältnisse der Amphibien und Reptilien in der Region der Serra de Grândola zwischen Rio Sado und der Linie São−Torpes−Alvalade dargestellt sowie die geologischen und klimatischen Voraussetzungen und Habitattypen des Untersuchungsgebietes charakterisiert. Die Verbreitung der 13 Amphibien- und 20 Reptilienarten (einschließlich zweier mariner Schildkröten) erfolgt als Punktkartierung innerhalb des 10 x 10 km UTM−Gitternetzes. Das Artenspektrum setzt sich aus mediterranen Formen zusammen. Bemerkenswert ist die hohe Verbreitungsdichte von Acanthodactylus erythrurus in den Küstendünen. Zwar sind auch heute noch ca. 60 % der Gesamtfläche mit anthropogen kaum oder wenig beeinflussten Dünenheiden und Wäldern (Quercus, Pinus) bedeckt, doch erfolgten in den letzten Jahrzehnten zahlreiche nachhaltige Habitatbelastungen durch touristische Erschließungen einzelner Küstenabschnitte, durch Urbanisierung, Intensivierung der Landwirtschaft, sowie durch Zerstörung und Verschmutzung von Gewässern, was regional zu starken Beeinträchtigungen, lokal zur völligen Auslöschung von Herpetozönosen führte, besonders im Raum Sines−Santiago do Cacém.
Malkmus, R. (2003) -
Malkmus, R. (2004) -
Zwischen 1976 und 2002 wurde die Artenzusammensetzung der Herpetofauna an 90 Ruinen von Wassermühlen in Portugal untersucht. Es wurden 12 Amphibien- und 19 Reptilienarten registriert, die 69 % der in Kontinental-Portugal vorkommenden Arten repräsentieren. Die Zusammensetzung der Herpetozönosen wird durch die geografische Lage, den Habitattypus des Umfeldes und der Phase des Zerfallsprozesses der einzelnen Mühlen geprägt. Durch die anthropogene Belastung der Flüsse ist vielerorts eine deutliche Reduzierung der Individuendichte und Artenzahl der Amphibien und hydrophiler Reptilien zu verzeichnen.
In 26 Portuguese castles 5 amphibian and 11 reptile species were recorded. Most species immigrated into the castle area from the surrounded environment. In some regions the distribution of Tarentola mauritanica and Hemidactylus turcicus is restricted to castles and the adjacent village or town; it is highly probable that they were introduced there by man. The microhabitat castle is highly endangered by restaurations.
In the western part of Alentejo (Portugal) Podarcis hispanica2 was observed in a Cork Oak (Quercus suber) using passages cre- ated by boring insects as their winter quar- ters.
Malkmus, R. (2005) -
Die Arbeit befasst sich mit den Verbreitungsverhältnissen der Amphibien und Reptilien in einem atlantomediterranen Karstgebiet, Natural das Serras de Aire e Candeeiros (PNSAC). Die geologischen und klimatischen Verhältnisse, sowie das Habitatinventar und die herpetofaunistische Literatur werden vorgestellt. Es folgen Angaben zu den im Naturpark registrierten 12 Amphibien- und 17 Reptilienarten, deren Verbreitung in Form einer Punktkartierung innerhalb des 10 x 10 km UTM-Gitternetzes dargestellt wird. 85 % der Arten sind thermophile westmediterrane, die übrigen holomediterrane, west- und zentraleuropäische Faunenelemente. Unterschiede der Artenzusammensetzung des Untersuchungsgebietes im Vergleich zu jener von Karstgebieten im südlichen Portugal sowie die menschlichen Einflüsse durch den wachsenden Verkehr, die expandierende Urbanisierung, der übermäßige Einsatz an Agrochemie, der Landnutzungswandel und die häufigen Großbrände werden diskutiert.
Malkmus, R. (2006) -
Auf 8 Reisen (1999 - 2006) in 5 alpinen Gebirgsstöcken (Lechtaler Alpen, Karwendel, Rofan, Dachstein, Schladminger Tauern) wurden Daten zur Verbreitung und Biologie von Amphibien, Reptilien und Libellen gesammelt.
Malkmus, R. (2008) -
Malkmus, R. (2009) -
Malkmus, R. (2010) -
Malkmus, R. (2011) -
Within a 500 m margin along the more than 2,000 km long coastline of Continental Portugal, its coastal islands and atlantic archipelagos (Azores, Madeira, Selvagens) 21 amphibian and 40 reptile taxa (including 5 marine turtles) were recorded; three of them are insular endemisms (Tarentola bischoffi, Podarcis carbonelli berlengensis, and the polytypic Teira dugesii). The extreme maritim-atlantic component of the coastal climate plays a relevant part as biogeographic factor: parallel to the coast eurosiberian and montane species penetrate deep into the mediterranean region (Lissotriton helveticus, Alytes obstetricans, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta schreiberi, Podarcis carbonelli) and reach there the southernmost limit of their distribution area; on the other hand some thermophilous taxa (Pleurodeles waltl, Pelobates cultripes, Pelodytes sp., Podarcis hispanica) reach along the coast in the eurosiberian region their northernmost limit. In the last 30 years the coastal ecosystems were overrun by an excessive urbanisation, caused by inland immigration and tourism. Consequently in many coast sectors the herpetofauna are endangered, often extincted by urban and suburban development with fragmentation, degradation and destruction of habitats. Namely ca. 40 % of the coastal region are protected areas, but the effectiveness of this protection is threatened by many special permissions for building projects and an insufficient supervision of the nature reserves.
Malkmus, R. (2012) -
Malkmus, R. (2013) -
GARVE & PODLOUCKY (2013) described an unusual ventral side sunbasking behaviour of a juvenile Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis meridionalis). The behavior was observed on the closely related Schreiber’s Green Lizard (Lacerta schreiberi) by the author in northern Portugal, especially on semiadult specimens.
Malkmus, R. (2014) -
Malkmus, R. (2016) -
Malkmus, R. (2017) -
Die dem agonistischen Verhaltensrepertoire entlehnten Ausdrucksformen der Paarungsbalz und die Paarung selbst von Podarcis guadarramae lusitanicus im natürlichen Lebensraum (Serra de Montemuro/Nord-Portugal) werden beschrieben. Es besteht weitgehend Übereinstimmung mit dem Paarungsverlauf bei Podarcis hispanicus.
Malkmus, R. (2018) -
Portugal ist ein beliebtes Urlaubsland. Vor allem die Metropole Lissabon und die Atlantikstrände des Algarve ziehen Touristen an. Aber das Land an der Südwestspitze Europas hat noch viel mehr zu bieten. Die Serra de Montemuro ist ein lohnendes Reiseziel auch für alle, die nach Amphibien und Reptiulien Ausschau halten.
Malkmus, R. (2019) -
Malkmus, R. (2023) -
Malkmus, R. & Loureiro, A. (2007) -
Gegenstand dieser Veröffentlichung ist die Darstellung der Verbreitungsverhältnisse der Amphibien und Reptilien der östlichen Beira Baixa (östliches Mittelportugal). Einleitend werden die geologischen und klimatischen Bedingungen beschrieben, das Habitatinventar und die den Raum betreffende herpetofaunistische Literatur vorgestellt. Im Untersuchungsgebiet wurden 16 Amphibien- und 23 Reptilienarten registriert, deren Verbreitung kartografisch auf der Basis eines 1 x 1 km UTM-Gitternetzes dargestellt wird. Während auf dem südlichen und zentralen Planalto mesomediterrane Arten vorherrschen, werden diese im nördlich gelegenen höheren Bergland durch supramediterrane und eurosibirische ersetzt. Pelodytes ibericus erreicht im Untersuchungsgebiet sein küstenfern nördlichstes, Hyla meridionalis den Grenzbereich seines landesweit nördlichsten Vorkommens. Triturus marmoratus und Triturus pygmaeus erscheinen in einer teilweise über 10 km breiten Überlappungszone in Sympatrie. Abschließend wird das Gefährdungspotenzial anthropogener Einflüsse (Ausbau der Infrastruktur, Einsatz von Agrochemie, Landnutzungswandel) auf die Herpetozönosen diskutiert und die Bedeutung der im Untersuchungsgebiet liegenden beiden großen Schutzzonen (Reserva da Serra da Malcata, Parque Natural Tejo Internacional) für die Herpetofauna erläutert.
Malkmus, R. & Loureiro, A. (2012) -
Wir stellen die Verbreitungsverhältnisse der Amphibien und Reptilien der Barroso-Region (Nordportugal) vor. Einleitend werden die geologischen und klimatischen Bedingungen des Untersuchungsgebietes beschrieben, die Habitattypen und die sich auf den Kartierungsraum beziehende herpetofaunistische Literatur vorgestellt. Bisher wurden 12 Amphibien- und 19 Reptilienarten registriert. Ihre Verbreitung wird kartografisch auf der Basis eines 1 x 1 km UTM-Gitternetzes dargestellt. Charakteristisch für den gesamten Untersuchungsraum ist die Dominanz eurosibirischer Arten mit zahlreichen nordiberischen Endemiten (Chioglossa lusitanica, Rana iberica, Lacerta schreiberi, Podarcis bocagei, Vipera seoanei), unter die sich an der klimabegünstigten Südabdachung einige mediterrane Arten (Tarentola mauritanica, Blanus cinereus) mischen. Vipera seoanei erreicht im Untersuchungsgebiet das am weitesten nach Süden vorgeschobene Vorkommen ihres Gesamtareals; Psammodromus hispanicus und Chalcides bedriagai die nordwestliche Grenzzone ihrer Verbreitung in Portugal. Abschließend wird auf die Bedeutung des Einflusses der anthropogenen Landschaftsgestaltung auf die Verbreitungsmuster der einzelnen Arten hingewiesen und die aktuellen Gefährdungsursachen (Landnutzungswandel, Wiederbewaldung, Talsperrenbau) beschrieben.
Malkmus, R. & Loureiro, A. & Sillero, N. (2015) -
Gegenstand der Veröffentlichung ist die Darstellung der Verbreitungsverhältnisse der Amphibien und Reptilien des Parque Natural do Douro Internacional (PNDI) im Nordosten Portugals. Einleitend werden die geologischen und klimatischen Voraussetzungen des Untersuchungsgebietes, das Habitatinventar und die sich auf den Kartierungsraum beziehende herpetofaunistische Literatur vorgestellt. Es wurden 12 Amphibien- und 20 Reptilienarten registriert, deren Verbreitung kartografisch auf der Basis des 1 x 1 km UTM-Gitternetzes dargestellt wird. Das Untersuchungsgebiet besteht aus einem Planalto, einem westlichen Ausläufer der spanischen Meseta, und wird vom Canyon des Rio Douro und seinen Zuflüssen gegliedert. Diesem Talsystem folgend, dringen thermophile mesomediterrane Arten (z. B. Pleurodeles waltl, Alytes cisternasii, Mauremys leprosa, Tarentola mauritanica, Macroprotodon brevis) tief in die supramediterrane Zone des Planaltos ein. Sie besiedeln hier ein weit nach Nor- den vorgeschobenes Isolat. Ein Gebirgsriegel zwischen Serra da Estrela und den zentralspanischen Kordilleren blockiert eine Verbindung zu den großflächigen, Verbreitungsarealen dieser Arten in Mittel- und Südportugal. Hemorrhois hippocrepis und Macroprotodon brevis erreichen im Untersuchungsgebiet die Nordgrenze ihrer Gesamtverbreitung. Abschließend wird die Bedeutung des Einflusses der anthropogenen Landschaftsgestaltung auf die Verbreitungsmuster der einzelnen Arten erläutert und die aktuellen Gefährdungsursachen (Landnutzungswandel, Einsatz von agrochemischen Produkten, Verschmutzung der Gewässer, Einführung von Zoozoen) beschrieben.
Malkmus, R. & Loureiro, A. & Sillero, N. (2020) -
We describe the distribution of the amphibians and reptiles of the Serra de Monte-muro (northern Portugal). In the introduction the geological and climatical condi-tions of this region as well as the habitat types and the herpetofaunistic studies are described. 11 amphibian and 17 reptile species were recorded. The distribution pat-tern of each species is shown by maps using the 1 x 1 km squares of the UTM grid system. In the montane region predominate north Iberian endemits (Chioglossa lusi-tanica, Rana iberica, Lacerta schreiberi; the occurrence of Podarcis bocagei is doubtful) and ubiquists (Salamandra salamandra, Triturus marmoratus, Lissotriton boscai, Pelophy-lax perezi; Chalcides striatus, Timon lepidus, Podarcis guadarramae). Along the rivers (Rio Douro, Rio Paiva), areas with components of Mediterranean climate, thermophile species (Chalcides bedriagai, Blanus cinereus, Hemorrhois hippocrepis) penetrate into the investigated area. Within the region Podarcis carbonelli reaches the northernmost oc-currence of its total distribution range. Remarkable is the high number of individuals of some montane Hyla molleri populations. Finally, the human impact on the land-scape (change of agricultural activities, reforestation in monocultures, widespread forest fires), its influence on the distribution pattern of the amphibians and reptiles and the efforts for protect the habitats are discussed.
Malkmus, R. & Sauer, H. (2006) -
An Iberian Wall Lizard (Podarcis hispanica) from Serra do Caramulo (NW Portugal) kept in a terrarium prefered among the offered food (small earth-worms, different arthropods and their larvae) pupa and larvae of ants (Formica rufa, Lasius niger). During basking sometimes a special feet up attitude could be observed.
Mallard, F. (2018) -
Understanding the local effects of climate change on biodiversity is essential to guide environmental and management policies for natural areas. The lack of knowledge at the regional level has led to the development of a research program `Climate sentinels`. The main hypothesis of the program is that effects on biodiversity are particularly detectable in species that have low movement abilities. These `climate sentinel` species would be the first to respond to local climatic variations by adaptation or local extinction. From the territory of New Aquitaine (France), 20 biological indicators of climate change in different ecosystems (dune, dry, wet, mountain and forest) were chosen: plants communities of ecosystems, insects (butterflies, dragonflies, bumblebees), amphibians (Rana pyrenaica, Hyla molleri, H. arborea), reptiles (Iberolacerta bonnali, Timon lepidus, Zootoca vivipara, Emys orbicularis, Vipera berus) and mammals (Marmota marmota, micromammals). This paper presents the method of development of these indicators and the research hypotheses associated with climate sentinel species.
La compréhension des effets locaux du changement climatique sur la biodiversité est essentielle pour orienter les politiques environnementales et de gestion des espaces naturels. Le manque de connaissances au niveau régional a conduit au développement d’un programme de recherche « les sentinelles du climat ». L’hypothèse principale du programme est que les effets sur la biodiversité sont particulièrement détectables chez des espèces qui ont de faibles capacités de déplacements. Ces espèces « sentinelles du climat » seraient les premières à répondre aux variations climatiques locales par adaptation ou par extinction locale. À partir du territoire de la Nouvelle-Aquitaine, 20 indicateurs biologiques du changement climatique dans différents écosystèmes (dunaire, sec, humide, montagnard et forestier) ont été choisis : cortèges floristiques des écosystèmes, insectes (papillons, libellules, bourdons), amphibiens (Rana pyrenaica, Hyla molleri,H. arborea), reptiles (Iberolacerta bonnali, Timon lepidus, Zootoca vivipara, Emys orbicularis, Vipera berus) et mammifères (Marmota marmota, micromammifères). Cet article présente la méthode de développement de ces indicateurs et les hypothèses de recherche associées aux espèces sentinelles du climat.
Malonza, P.K. & Bwong, B.A. (2023) -
Malonza, P.K. & Bwong, B.A. & Muchai, V. (2011) -
Herpetologically, the remoteness of Kitobo forest in south-eastern Kenya has partly contributed to it remaining virtually un-explored until 2007. Three surveys were conducted in December 2007, December 2009 and April 2010 aimed at generating a comprehensive list of the forest amphibians and reptiles. Using largely timed-species count method, 13 species of amphibians representing eight families and 32 reptiles belonging to 11 families were recorded. Overall species diversity was highest during the 2007 sampling. The richness and abundance of amphibians was highest during the April 2010 sampling period when the amount of rainfall was also highest. The results of species accumulation curves of the three sampling periods did not plateau demonstrating that more species occur in this forest. Pressure on this forest fragment from the adjacent local people is high which in addition to the annual floods threatens its long-term survival. For example the distribution and abundance of some forest associated species such as the tree frogs Leptopelis flavomaculatus and Hyperolius puncticulatus appear to fluctuate with flood events and may decline in future. Considering the forest associated herpetofanua recorded, Kitobo forest is zoogeographically assignable to the East African coastal forest biodiversity hotspot. The documentation of high species richness and diversity in this small forest fragment strongly highlight its biodiversity importance and place it among the most important sites for the conservation of reptiles and amphibians in Kenya.
Malonza, P.K. & Mulwa, D.M. & Nyamache, J.O & Jones, G. (2017) -
The Shimba Hills ecosystem along the south coast of Kenya is a key East African biodiversity hotspot. Historically, it is biogeographically assignable to the East African coastal biome. We examined the current Shimba Hills herpetofauna and their zoogeographical affinities to the coastal forests and nearby Eastern Arc Mountains biodiversity hotspots. The key studied sites included the Shimba Hills National Reserve, forest reserves, Kaya forests, and adjacent private land. Data on herpetofaunal richness were obtained from recent field surveys, literature, and specimens held at the National Museums of Kenya, Herpetology Section Collection, Nairobi. The Makadara, Mwele, and Longo- Mwagandi forests within the Shimba Hills National Reserve hosted the highest number of unique and rare species. Generally, the forest reserves and Kaya forests were important refuges for forestassociated species. On private land, Mukurumudzi Dam riparian areas were the best amphibian habitat and were host to three IUCN (Red List) Endangered- EN amphibian species, namely, Boulengerula changamwensis, Hyperolius rubrovermiculatus, and Afrixalus sylvaticus, as well as one snake species Elapsoidea nigra. Using herpetofauna as zoogeographic indicators, the Shimba Hills were determined to be at a crossroads between the coastal forests (13 endemic species) and the Eastern Arc Mountains (seven endemic species). Most of the Eastern Arc Mountains endemic species were from recent records, and thus more are likely to be found in the future. This ‘hybrid’ species richness pattern is attributable to the hilly topography of the Shimba Hills and their proximity to the Indian Ocean. This has contributed to the Shimba Hills being the richest herpetofauna area in Kenya, with a total of 89 and 36 reptile and amphibian species, respectively. Because of its unique zoogeography, the Shimba Hills ecosystem is undoubtedly a key biodiversity area for conservation investment.
Malonza, P.K. & Wasonga, V.D. & Muchai, V. & Rotich, D. & Bwong, B.A. (2006) -
Herpetofaunal surveys of the Tana River Primate National Reserve were conducted between December 1998 and January 2002 to generate a species list. Systematic search–and–seize, visual encounter survey and pitfalls with drift fence methods were used. Additional data derived from the collection of the National Museums of Kenya and the literature were also used. A total of 40 species comprising 16 amphibians (all anurans), and 24 reptiles (14 lizards, 1 crocodile, 8 snakes, 1 tortoise) were recorded.
Malten, A. (2011) -
Malten, A. & Linderhaus, T. (2005) -
Im Rahmen einer Stichprobenkartierung wurden im Jahr 2005 auf 649 zufällig ausgewählten 1 km2 großen Probeflächen Zauneidechsen (Lacerta agilis) und Schlingnattern (Coronella austriaca) kartiert. In der Zeit vom 26.5.05-14.10.05 wurden dazu innerhalb der Probeflächen frei wählbare Transekte von 1 km Länge, bzw. 1 h Begehungsdauer nach Vorkommen dieser Reptilien abgesucht. Die Probeflächen befanden sich in den Naturräumen D46 Westhessisches Bergland, D47 Osthessisches Bergland, Vogelsberg und Rhön sowie D53 Oberrheinisches Tiefland. Die zufällige Auswahl der Probeflächen erfolgte für jedes Messtischblatt separat, um eine homogenere Verteilung über Hessen zu erreichen. Die Bewertung der angetroffenen Populationen, Habitate und die Beeinträchtigungen und Gefährdungen wurden anhand eines für diese Erfassung modifizierten Bewertungsrahmens durchgeführt. Die Begehungen erfolgten durch speziell geschulte Mitarbeiter des Landesbetriebes Hessen Forst, FIV, Naturschutzdaten, der Arbeitsgemeinschaft Amphibien- und Reptilienschutz Hessen (AGAR) sowie der Arbeitsgruppe Biotopkartierung am Forschungsinstitut Senckenberg. Insgesamt wurden 2.598 Reptilien auf 449 Probeflächen nachgewiesen. Neben 879 Zauneidechsen und 15 Schlingnattern wurden dabei 1.474 Waldeidechsen (Zootoca vivipara), 176 Blindschleichen (Anguis fragilis), 18 Ringelnattern (Natrix natrix) sowie 36 nicht bestimmte Eidechsen gezählt. Damit war die Waldeidechse insgesamt die am häufigsten gefundene Art der Untersuchung, obwohl sie im Naturraum D53 deutlich seltener gefunden wurde als die Zauneidechse. In den drei untersuchten Naturräumen wurde eine Flächen deckende, im Süden (Naturraum D53) dichtere Verbreitung der Zauneidechse auf insgesamt 213 Probeflächen festgestellt. Zwar wurden im Naturraum D47 insgesamt weniger Vor kommen der Zauneidechse registriert, als im Naturraum D53, die hier festgestellten Populationen wurden jedoch besonders häufig mit „sehr gut“ bewertet. Insgesamt muss der klimatisch begünstigte Naturraum D53 aufgrund der hohen Bewertung der Habitate und der vielen Vorkommen als der für diese Art am besten zu bewertende Naturraum in Hessen eingestuft werden. Die Schlingnatter wurde überwiegend in der nördlichen Hälfte des Naturraums D47 (10 Probeflächen) und in einer weiteren Probefläche im Süden des Naturraums D53 kartiert. Diese Daten geben nicht annähernd die tatsächliche Verbreitung wieder, zeigen aber den Schwerpunkt des Vorkommens im untersuchten Raum. Die 2005 erhobenen Daten ermöglichen eine objektivere Beurteilung der Verbreitung von Zauneidechse und Waldeidechse sowie (eingeschränkt) der Schlingnatter in Hessen als vorausgegangene Untersuchungen. Die Auswahl der Probeflächen nach dem Zufallsprinzip verhindert, dass Fundpunkte lediglich die Wohnorte der Kartierer abbilden. Es wird empfohlen die Kartierung auf die gesamte Landesfläche auszudehnen und möglichst den Stichprobenumfang zur Abdeckung aller Messtischblattquadranten auf 10 % zu erhöhen, um einen lückenlosen Überblick über Status und Verbreitung von Zauneidechse und Schlingnatter in Hessen zu bekommen.
Malten, A. & Linderhaus, T. (2006) -
In Fortsetzung der Stichprobenkartierung 2005 zur Verbreitung von Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) und Schlingnatter (Coronella austriaca) in Hessen (MALTEN & LINDERHAUS 2005) wurde im Jahr 2006 auf 314 zufällig ausgewählten 1 km2 großen Probeflächen kartiert. In der Zeit vom 8. Juni bis zum 15. Oktober wurden dazu innerhalb der Probeflächen frei wählbare Transekte von 1 km Länge, bzw. 1 h Begehungsdauer nach Vorkommen dieser Reptilien abgesucht. Die Probeflächen befanden sich in den hessischen Anteilen der Naturräume D18 Thüringer Becken mit Randplatten, D36 Weser- und Weser Leine-Bergland (Niedersächsisches Bergland), D38 Bergisches Land, Sauerland, D39 Westerwald, D40 Lahntal und Limburger Hessen, D41 Taunus, D55 Odenwald, Spessart und Südrhön. Die zufälli ge Auswahl der Probeflächen erfolgte für jedes Messtischblatt separat, um eine homogenere Vertei lung über Hessen zu erreichen. Die Bewertung der angetroffenen Populationen, Habitate und die Be einträchtigungen und Gefährdungen wurden anhand eines für diese Erfassung modifizierten Bewer tungsrahmens durchgeführt. Die Begehungen erfolgten durch speziell geschulte Mitarbeiter des Lan desbetriebes Hessen-Forst, FIV, Naturschutzdaten, der Arbeitsgemeinschaft Amphibien- und Repti lienschutz Hessen (AGAR) sowie der Arbeitsgruppe Biotopkartierung am Forschungsinstitut Sen ckenberg. Insgesamt wurden 912 Reptilien auf 217 Probeflächen nachgewiesen. Neben 279 Zauneid echsen und 9 Schlingnattern wurden dabei 500 Waldeidechsen (Zootoca vivipara), 93 Blindschleichen (Anguis fragilis), 19 Ringelnattern (Natrix natrix) sowie 12 nicht bestimmte Eidechsen gezählt. Damit war die Waldeidechse insgesamt die am häufigsten gefundene Art der Untersuchung.
Maluk, A.U. & Peskov, V.N. (2011) -
Published sources and original data of morphometric differences between males and females of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) and green lizard (L. viridis) have analyzed. There is no sex difference in length of the body for 23 populations (60.5%) of the sand lizard. As for another 7 populations (18.4%) — males are larger than females, and for 8 populations (21.1%) — females are larger than males. Found that females of both species have significantly bigger relative length of the trunk and anal plate, males have more massive body, relatively large head, long limbs and tail. Adaptive nature of sex differences is discussesed.
Maluquer-Margalef, J. (1983) -
Some aspects of the herpetofauna of an area of the exterior mountain-chain of Western Catalan Pre-Pyrenees are analized. This area is a transition from dry Mediterranean plain -influenced by continental climate- to middle Mediterranean mountain- with eurosiberian influence-. Although characteristic Mediterranean elements (ibero-mogrebian) prevail, this transition character appears also in herpetology. The most representative species of both areas are: Euproctus asper (from the Pyrenees), Anguis fragilis, Vipera aspis (of central Europe) and Pelobates cultripes, Coluber hippocrepis, Psammodromus hispanicus (of ibero-mogrebian origin). In this area 22 species have been found: 8 Amphibians and 14 or 15 Reptiles (depending on the acceptance of the presence of Podarcis muralis).
Maluquer-Margalef, J. & Romera, X. & Poch, S. (2023) -
3 cases of adaptations or little or no described behavior are reported in populations of Podarcis muralis located in areas at the limit of its distribution, either due to geographical and/or edaphoclimatic conditions, in which the more or less accentuated hygrophilia stands out, as well as the vital basking and escape strategies, some quite unusual. Finally, the vulnerability and the importance of preserving those unique environments is stated.
Maluquer, J. (1918) -
Malysheva, D.N. (2006) -
Малышева Д.Н. (2006) -
Malysheva, D.N. & Korchagin, V.I. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Ryskov, A.P. (2012) -
In the genome of unisexual (parthenogenetic) lizard Darevskia armeniaca, highly variable locus Du161 (arm) was discovered. Analysis of allelic polymorphism was carried out using locus-specific PCR of the lizard DNA specimens from 13 isolated Armenian populations (N = 138). In the sample examined, a total of 12 Du161(arm) alleles were identified, and their differences at the level of primary DNA structure were determined. Sequence analysis of the Du161(arm) alleles showed that their microsatellite clusters contained repeats of one type (GATA repeats). Allelic Du161(arm) variants differed in the number of GATA monomers in microsatellite, point mutations of transition and transversion types, located at fixed distances from micro-satellite cluster, and by single nucleotide insertions, as well as by longer insertions located within and outside of the microsatellite cluster. Moreover, point mutations formed different combinations (haplotypes), typical of certain alleles. These combinations can be used for the analysis of the origin and inheritance of these alleles in D. armeniaca, as well as for investigation of their interspecific variation in the representatives of the genus Darevskia.
Малышева Д.Н., Корчагин В.И., Токарская О.Н., Рысков А.П. (2012) -
В геноме однополых (партеногенетических) ящериц Darevskia armeniaca обнаружен высоковариабельный локус Du161(arm). Анализ аллельного полиморфизма проводили с помощью локус-специфической ПЦР образцов ДНК особей из 13 изолированных популяций Армении (N = 138). В исследованной выборке выявлено 12 аллелей локуса Du161(arm) и установлены их различия на уровне первичной структуры ДНК. Анализ нуклеотидных последовательностей аллелей Du161(arm) показал, что их микросателлитные кластеры содержат повторы одного типа (GATA-повторы). Аллельные варианты Du161(arm) различаются по количеству GATA-звеньев в микросателлите и точковыми мутациями типа транзиций и транcверсий, расположенными на фиксированных расстояниях от микросателлитного кластера, а также единичными нуклеотидными и более протяженными вставками внутри и вне микросателлитного кластера. При этом точковые мутации образуют различные сочетания гаплотипы, характерные для определенных аллелей, которые могут быть использованы при изучении происхождения и наследования этих аллелей у D. armeniaca, а также анализа их межвидовой изменчивости у представителей рода Darevskia.
Malysheva, D.N. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Sancho, V. & López-Jurado, L.F. (2003) -
Rostombekov’s lizard (Darevskia rostombekovi) is one of the seven parthenogenetic, all - female, Caucasus rock lizard species of hybrid origin (parental species D. portschinskii and D. raddei). The species consists of several isolated populations of different size from northern foothills of the Caucasus Minor, Northern Armenia, adjacent regions of north - western Azerbaijan, and a remote small highly mountainous (2000 m a.s.l.) relict ( _ 12000 years) population of the southeastern coast of the Sevan Lake. As the other parthenogenetic species from the genus Darevskia, D. rostombekovi has diploid chromosome set, high fi xed heterozygosity of allozyme loci and low variation of mtDNA. The allozyme data for 35 loci of D. rostombekovi did not show variation in population of the species. Thus in contrast to D. dahli, D. armeniaca, D. unisexualis, D. rostombekovi is considered a monoclonal species. Multilocus DNA fi ngerprinting was used to analyze genetic variation in samples of 21 animals from three isolated populations of North Armenia and in a sample of 5 animals from relict population of the Sevan Lake. The mean intrapopulation similarity index (S) was 0.995; 0.946; 0.951 and 0.946 for each of the four populations examined respectively (p _ 0.05). However intraspecifi c similarity index, calculated using a sample of 26 animals (3 populations of the North Armenia and population of southern coast of the Sevan Lake) was equal to 0.815. Comparative interpopulation analysis of S values indicated that relict population of the coast of the Sevan Lake is different from other populations of North Armenia (S = 0.536; p _ 0.001). Taking into account that D. rostombekovi is considered monoclonal on the basis of allozyme data, the problem of clonal variation is discussed with regard to the evidence on nuclear DNA markers. It is suggested that hybrid unstable karyotype of D. rostombekovi generates a series of chromosomal mutations which may lead to the appearance of a geographically isolated chromosome race (clone) in the population inhabiting the southern coast of the Sevan Lake.
Malysheva, D.N. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Danielyan, F.D. & Darevsky, I.S. & Ryskov, A.P. (2005) -
Malysheva, D.N. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Danielyan, F.D. & Darevsky, I.S. & Ryskov, A.P. (2007) -
Microsatellites, or short tandem repeats, are abundant across genomes of most organisms. It is evident that the most straightforward and conclusive way of studying mutations in microsatellite-containing loci is to use clonally transmitted genomes or DNA sequences inherited in multigeneration pedigrees. At present, little is known about the origin of genetic variation in species that lack effective genetic recombination. DNA fingerprinting in 43 families of the parthenogenetic lizard species Darevskia armeniaca (131 siblings), using (GACA)(4), (GGCA)(4), (GATA)(4), and (CAC)(5) probes, revealed mutant fingerprints in siblings that differed from their mothers in several restriction DNA fragments. In some cases, the mutant fingerprints detected in siblings were also found in population samples. The mutation rate for new restriction fragment length estimated by using multilocus probes varied from 0.8 x 10(-2) to 4.9 x 10(-2) per band/per sibling. Probably, the most variations detected as restriction fragment length polymorphism have germ-line origin, but somatic changes of (CAC)(n) fingerprints in adult lizards were also observed. These results provide new evidence of existing unstable regions in genomes of parthenogenetic vertebrate animals, which provide genetic variation in unisexual populations.
Malysheva, D.N. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Danielyan, F.D. & Ryskov, A.P. (2013) -
Malysheva, D.N. & Vergun, A.A. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Korchagin, V.I. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Ryskov, A.P. (2007) -
Malysheva, D.N. & Vergun, A.A. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Ryskov, A.P. (2008) -
Using a pair of primers selected for the loci Du215, Du281, and Du323 of Darevskia unisexualis, monolocus PCR analysis of orthologous loci was carried out in populations of the related parthenogenetic species D. armeniaca and in populations of bisexual parental species D. valentini and D. mixta. It was shown that the studied loci were polymorphic and represented in populations of D. armeniaca by several allelic variants. We cloned and sequenced PCR amplification products of the allelic variants of Du215, Du281, and Du323 loci. It was found that allelic differences in microsatellite loci were caused by variations in the number of tandem repeats in the microsatellite clusters and point mutations in the flanking regions. An interspecies comparison of the orthologous locus Du215 between parthenogenetic species D. armeniaca and parental species showed that two allelic variants of Du215 in D. armeniaca were inherited from the parental bisexual species D. mixta and D. valentini. The third allelic variant was not found in parental species and appeared due to mutation processes in genome of parthenospecies. For the first time, the information about the molecular nature of allelic polymorphism of these microsatellite loci of parthenogenetic species D. armeniaca was received in this study.
Малышева Д.Н., Вергун А.А., Мартиросян И.А., Токарская О.Н., Рысков А.П. (2008) -
C помощью монолокусной ПЦР с использованием пары праймеров, подобранных для локусов Du215, Du281 и Du323 Darevskia unisexualis, проведен анализ аллельного полимор-физма ортологичных локусов в популяциях родственного партеновида D. armenlaca, а также в популяциях двуполых ро-дительских видов D. valentini u D. mixta по локусу Du215 (arm). Установлено, что изучаемые локусы являются полиморфны-ми и представлены в популяциях несколькими аллельными вариантами. Секвенированнем полученных ПЦР-продуктов показано, что аллелыше варианты изучаемых локусов разли-чаются по размеру и составу микросатeллитного кластера, а также по точковым заменам в прилежаших к микросателлиту областях. Анализ аллельного полиморфизма локуса Du215 в популяциях двуполых родительских видов выявил, что один из аллелей изучаемого локуса у D. armenlaca перешел от ма-теринского вида D. mixta, а другой - от отцовского вида D. valentinl. Третий аллельный вариант не встречался у роди-тельских видов и возник в результате мутационных процес-сов в геноме партеновида. Таким образом в работе впервые получена информация о молекулярной природе аллельного полиморфизма 3 микросателлитных локусов у партеновида D. armenlaca.
Malysheva, D.N. & Vergun, A.A. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Sevast’yanova, O.N. & Darevsky, I.S. & Ryskov, A.P. (2007) -
Using monolocus PCR analysis with the pairs of primers designed for the Du215 locus of Darevskia unisexualis, allelic polymorphism at the orthologous locus in the populations of the related parthenospecies D. armeniaca was investigated. It was demonstrated that Du215 (arm) locus was polymorphic and in the populations of parthenospecies D. armeniaca (n = 127) represented by at least three allelic variants, differing from each other by the size and composition of microsatellite cluster, and by single nucleotide substitutions in flanking DNA. Unlike the Du215 locus, Du215 (arm) was shown contain not only GATA, but also (GACA) repeats, which were absent in D. unisexualis. Thus, in this study, the data on the molecular nature of allelic polymorphism at one of the microsatellite loci of the parthenospecies D. armeniaca were reported.
Малышева Д.Н., Вергун А.А., Токарская О.Н., Севастьянова Г.А., Даревский И.С., Рысков А.П. (2007) -
В настоящей работе с помощью монолокусного ПЦР-анализа, используя пары праймеров, подобранные для локуса Du215 Darevskia unisexualis, проводили изучение аллельного полиморфизма ортологичного локуса в популяциях родственного партеновида D. armeniaca. Установлено, что Du215 (arm) является полиморфным и в популяциях партеновида D. armeniaca (n = 127) представлен как минимум тремя аллельными вариантами, которые различаются размером и составом микросателлитного кластера, а также одиночными нуклеотидными заменами в прилежащих ДНК. Показано, что микросателлитный кластер локуса Du215 (arm), в отличие от Du215, содержит не только GATA-, но и (GACA)-повторы, которые отсутствовали у D. unisexualis. Таким образом, в работе впервые получена информация о молекулярной природе аллельного полиморфизма одного из микросателлитных локусов у партеновида D. armeniaca.
Malyuk, A.Y. (2010) -
Age variations by linear size and body proportions have been studied in population of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758). It has been established, that not only linear body size increases, but also body proportions have a lot of changes. It is shown that four stages of maturity (juvenis, subadultus, adultus, adultus-senex) are well-defined by linear size, body proportions and reproductive organs in postembryonic development of this species.
Malyuk, A.Y. (2014) -
The results of studying of the sex differences formation in the post-embryonic development of the sand lizard. The signs, which differences are valid for all age groups, starting with fingerlings. Based on these data the classification function to determine the sex of young immature sand lizard.
Malyuk, A.Y. (2016) -
Morphological differences in the four size-age groups of the sand and the green lizard are analyzed. It is shown that interspecies differences appear on some features already at the stage of the yearling. In males of sand and green lizards, age differences in scale are inferior to those of interspecies, while in young females, age differences are significantly greater than interspecific differences. The adaptive nature of interspecific differences is discussed.
Mamin, A. (2019) -
Mamin, A. (2020) -
Gallotia atlantica is a lizard endemic to the eastermost islands of the Canary Islands. However, there is also one population present on Gran Canaria. Once described as a different subspecies than the ones from Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, it is now acknowledged that this population was introduced on Gran Canaria. According to different publications, this population was attributed either to Gallotia atlantica atlantica or to Gallotia atlantica mahoratae. Here, the author gives the clarification why the population on Gran Canaria should be considered as Gallotia atlantica atlantica and not Gallotia atlantica mahoratae.
Mamin, A. & A. Le Bail (2021) -
Gallotia stehlini is an endemic lizard of Lacertidae from Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands. This lizard is omnivorous with a large range of food. As omnivorous lizards, it is commonly admitted that G. stehlini is more herbivorous than carnivorous, with very few data about active hunting on other animals than lizards and arthropods. Here we share what we think is the first record of active hunting on an adult rodent (Mus musculus) by Gallotia stehlini in the wild.
Mamin, A. & C. Rodriguez (2021) -
Gallotia is an endemic genus of Lacertidae from the Canary Islands. This genus is known to be omnivorous. It displays an opportunistic feeding behaviour and feeds on a wide variety of food with an important part made of plant matters, including stems, leaves, flowers and fruits. Its diet includes arthropods, other lizards, various animal carrions and even human leftover food too. Two species among the genus Gallotia have been reported to practice coprophagy. Here, the authors share personal observations of this behaviour in three other species of the same genus.
Mamou, R. (2011) -
In order to study the composition of the south Kabylie’s herpétofauna (Bouira’s and Bordj Bou Arreridj’s wilaya), we have chosen six different ecological areas. 19 species (1 Amphibian and 18 Reptiles) have been inventoried. They are mainly of mediterranean origin (12 species of 19) with 3 species typically North Africans (Timon pater, Chalcides chalcides and Mesalina olivieri). But in this herpétofauna we have found two saharian species (Psammophis schokari and Mesalina olivieri). The field analysis of the species distribution showed that the landscape composition played an important role. Some species such as P. algirus frequented various areas, others such as Natrix natrix and Natrix maura preferred humid areas, Acanthodactylus erythrurus localized in biotopes with sandy substratum, also Timon. pater who frequents forests, on the six community studied none presents q high diversity. The main important specific riches were observed in the low scrub (10 species). The intermediate situation that corresponds to the average of the diversity and the regularity was observed in the rocky open ground and the low scrub.
Mamou, R. (2017) -
Against environmental variations, namely: daily, seasonal and annual, organisms adopt different strategies to exploit better the resources of the environment and to breed (access to sexual partners and development of the gonads) and ultimately achieve fitness. In the case of ectotherms, the temperature of the medium affects directly the body temperature, which influences physiological processes and behavior. It is in this perspective that we have approached this thesis, examining three strategies used by the wall lizard Podarcis vaucheri in Djurdjura, namely: food, reproduction and thermoregulation. Our results show that spring is the ideal period for breeding and feeding, and during this period the lizards express a mono-modal daily activity, essentially between 10 am and 3 pm, which gives them ample time for research prey and sexual partner as well as for thermoregulation. During this period, the lizards maintain a high and constant body temperature, followed by an active thermoregulation, which allows them to perform their various functions optimally. The statistical analysis applied to the proportions of the prey categories consumed shows a significant influence of the seasonal variations on the diet of this species. These variations are attributed to changes in prey availability, changes in environmental conditions, especially temperature and specific needs. In spring, the food spectrum of P. vaucheri is more diversified; males and females clearly express their trophic preferences, which reflect a significant difference between the diets of both sexes. On the other hand, in summer, there is a reduction in the diversity of the food spectrum, due to the reduction in prey availability and to the increase in environmental temperatures, which have limited the activity of lizards. Also to compensate the lack of water, lizards consume essentially prey rich in water like Homoptera and Orthoptera. In autumn, the food spectrum of P. vaucheri becomes very poor, as in summer, the lack of food obliges males and females to converge their food preferences. However, the autumn period is characterized by a spectacular consumption of ants. This strategy is used by lizards to reduce effort and time search of prey, and as the cold season and hibernation approach, they are forced to make their reserves fairly quickly. The reproductive cycle of P. vaucheri belongs to the associated type, with intense sexual activity, in both sexes, in spring and early summer (June). The sexual cycle of females is simple, characterized by a long period of sexual rest, from July until entering into hibernation. However, the study of spermatogenesis reveals a short period of sexual rest in July, and a rapid resumption of spermatic activity in August, followed by sperm production in autumn, but these remain in the seminiferous tubules.
Mamou, R. & Marniche, F. (2016) -
Food habits of Psamodrommus algirus Linnaeus, 1758 (Reptilia: Lacertidae) in Djurdjura, northern Algeria. -- In this study, we present the first data on the diet of Psammodromus algirus of Tala Guilef sector (Djurdjura National Park). The analysis of 43 feces allowed us to identify 245 food items, spread over 15 Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs). Insects are the most consumed and, among them, the five most ingested categories of preys are: Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, Heteroptera, Homoptera, and Orthoptera. During the study period, the food spectrum is slightly diversified (BA = 0,41). Statistics analysis applied to prey categories proportions shows a significant influence of seasonal variation on the diet: x² = 42,94 p < 0,0001; ddl = 14. It presents a specialized diet in spring (BA = 0,25) concentrated essentially on Coleoptera and Hymenoptera. In summer, it became more opportunistic (BA = 0,46), but Coleoptera remain the most consumed category of preys.
Mamou, R. & Marniche, F. & Amroun, M. & Exbrayat, J.-M. & Herrel, A. (2019) -
We studied the composition and seasonal changes in diet and prey selection in the wall lizard Podarcis vaucheri of the Djurdjura Mountains throughout its activity period, from April to October 2014. The analysis of 238 faecal pellets revealed 1 206 prey items distributed in 19 prey categories. The most important prey categories were: Formicidae, Coleoptera, Aranea, Homoptera, and Orthoptera. Significant seasonal variation in the taxonomic composition of the diet and prey availability was found. A significant difference in diet composition was observed between males and females in spring. This lizard species displayed a more diverse dietary spectrum during this period, followed by a slight decrease in summer. However, a severe decrease in the food niche breadth was observed in autumn, resulting in a high consumption of ants. A comparison of diet composition and prey availability showed that lizards exhibited a clear selection of certain prey types, in contrast to what is often suggested for lacertid lizards.
Mamou, R. & Marniche, F. & Amroun, M. & Herrel, A. (2016) -
In this study, we present the first data on the diet of two sympatric lizard species Psammodromus algirus and Podarcis vaucheri of the Djurdjura Mountains. The analysis of 100 feces (43 Ps. algirus and 57 P. vaucheri) allowed us to identify 560 prey items (254 for Ps. algirus and 312 for P. vaucheri) distributed across 17 operational taxonomic units. Insects were most commonly consumed by both species, but spiders were also preferred by P. vaucheri. The five most commonly ingested categories of prey among insects were: Coleoptera, Hymenoptera, Homoptera, Heteroptera and Orthoptera. During the study period, the interspecific diet overlap was very high (CH = 0.86). But the diet of P. vaucheri (BA = 0.50) was slightly more diversified than that of Ps. algirus (BA = 0.41). The diets of both species were, however, not strongly different. A significant influence of seasonal variation on diet was detected.
Mamou, R. & Moudilou, E. & Exbrayat, J.M. & Amroun, M. (2017) -
The reproductive cycle of male wall lizard Podarcis vaucheri (Boulenger, 1905) living in Djurdjura mountain, was analyzed from April till October 2014. Its seasonal mixed-type cycle was characterized by three phases: sexual activity, quiescence and recrudescence. After the emergence of lizard from hibernation an intense sexual activity was observed in spring (April, May, and June) at which the testicular weight and seminiferous tubules diameter reached their maximal values. At this period, spermiogenesis was also maximal and the spermiation allowed the release of a large quantity of spermatozoa in both the seminiferous tubules and epididymis lumen. In July, a short sexual resting period followed, during which the testes mass and seminiferous tubules diameter decreased. Spermatogonia and some primary spermatocytes were observed against the wall of seminiferous tubules. The recrudescence period (August, September and October) was characterized by a progressive increase of the testis weight and seminiferous tubules diameter. Spermatocytogenesis began in August, and spermiogenesis occurred in September and October, before the diapause period. But the presence of spermatozoids was not signaled in the epididymis lumen. Field observations and microscopic evidence of testis showed that both sexes reproduced synchronously during spring and early summer.
Mamou, R. & Moudilou, E. &Ghoul, A. & Exbrayat, J.M. (2019) -
In this work, we present the first data on the reproductive cycle of the wall lizard females Podarcis vaucheri (Boulenger, 1905) in Djurdjura mountains. The macroscopic and histological study of the ovaries showed the existence of a discontinuous reproductive cycle, characterized by a sexual activity period (from April to June), followed by a long rest period (from July to October). Histochemical analysis was performed to clarify the nature of ovarian tissue compounds. The immunohistochemical study showed a seasonal variation of the steroid hormones, with a steroidogenic function of follicular and conjunctive theca cells. Based on previous work on males, females’ sexual activity appears to be synchronized with testes development, which has allowed us to classify the P. vaucheri reproductive cycle into the associated seasonal type.
Manaças, S. (1963) -
Manannikova, M.N. (2015) -
Specific features and reasons for the formation of morphofunctional differences between Lacerta agilis specimens from various eco-geographical zones of Orenburg region have been considered. Besides size and age differences expressed in their length and body weight, as well as in the liver weight, sexual dimorphism has been also observed in the weight of heart, kidneys, and gonads
Mancer, R. & Ousmal, T. (2016) -
Mangiacotti, M. & Baeckens, S. & Funagalli, M. & Martin, J. & Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. (2023) -
Sexual selection contributes to the diversity of chemical signals in various animal groups. Lizards are good model species to study how sexual selection shapes signal diversity, as they are a chemically oriented taxonomic group with different levels of social interactions. Many lizard species bear epidermal glands secreting a waxy mixture of lipids and proteins, which are used in intraspecific communication. Previous among-species comparative analyses failed to find a relationship between the strength of sexual selection with the composition of the lipid blend in lizards. Here, we extend the investigation to the proteinaceous fraction. By using a phylogenetically informed approach, we correlated the average electrophoretic profiles of the protein from the femoral glands of 36 lacertid lizard species with the level of sexual dimorphism in size and shape, which are proxies for the strength of sexual selection. We found that as sexual size dimorphism advances, five distinct molecular weight regions in the protein profile increased their expression. Using tandem mass spectrometry, we successfully identified one of these five proteins: a carbonic anhydrase—an enzyme catalyzing the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide. Our findings suggest that proteins may be the target of sexual selection, as an active semiochemicals or as a dynamic support to other molecules: sexual selection may act indirectly on semiochemicals (namely lipids) by modifying the matrix (namely proteins).
Chemical communication in terrestrial vertebrates is often built on complex blends, where semiochemical and structural compounds may form an integrated functional unit. In lizards, many species have specialized epidermal glands whose secretions are waxy, homogeneous blends of lipids and proteins, both active in communication. The intimate co-occurrence of such compounds allows us to hypothesize that they should undergo a certain degree of covariation, considering both their semiochemical role and the support-to-lipid function hypothesized for the protein fraction. In order to assess the occurrence and level of protein–lipid covariation, we compared the composition and complexity of the two fractions in the femoral gland secretions of 36 lizard species, combining phylogenetically-informed analysis with tandem mass spectrometry. We found the composition and complexity of the two fractions to be strongly correlated. The composition of the protein fraction was mostly influenced by the relative proportion of cholestanol, provitamin D3, stigmasterol, and tocopherol, while the complexity of the protein pattern increased with that of lipids. Additionally, two identified proteins (carbonic anhydrase and protein disulfide isomerase) increased their concentration as provitamin D3 became more abundant. Although our approach does not allow us to decrypt the functional relations between the proteinaceous and lipid components, nor under the semiochemical or structural hypothesis, the finding that the proteins involved in this association were enzymes opens up to new perspectives about protein role: They may confer dynamic properties to the blend, making it able to compensate predictable variation of the environmental conditions. This may expand the view about proteins in the support-to-lipid hypothesis, from being a passive and inert component of the secretions to become an active and dynamic one, thus providing cues for future research.
Mangiacotti, M. & Bassu, L. & Nulchis, V. & Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. & Corti, C. (2013) -
The geographic distribution of a species is the result of many factors, among which the anthropogenic habitat alteration has become more and more important. A direct evaluation of its effect may become critical for conservation policy, particularly in insular context, where resources and animal dispersal are limited. In the present study we used species distribution models (SDM) to assess the influence of habitat alteration on the Sardinian distributions of the Tyrrhenian wall lizards (Podarcis tiliguerta - endemic) and the Italian wall lizard (P. siculus - introduced in historical or protohistorical time). SDM were built using Maxent under three scenarios: the distribution is guided i) only by climate and topography (model CT); ii) only by anthropization (An); iii) by both factors (AnCT). Sensitivity and specificity of the models was computed after applying a threshold to the Maxent output, while the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) was used to identify the best model. Finally, a variation partitioning approach was used to disentangle the contribution of each factor. For both species, AnCT model showed the best performance (best AIC, best sensitivity and specificity). Anthropization weighs as much as climate and topography for the endemic wall lizard, whereas the weight is far lower for P. siculus. Climate and anthropization showed interaction in P. tiliguerta, whereas they are independent in P. siculus. Our results show that: i) the endemic lizard is more vulnerable to human impact than the non-endemic one; ii) the tolerance of P. tiliguerta towards anthropization varies with the climatic suitability, while it appears constant for P. siculus. These conclusions focus the attention on the potentially problematic situation of P. tiliguerta, situation that may be worsened by the suspected competition between the two species: where habitat alteration is increasing, competition may be exacerbated, favouring the Italian wall lizard and penalizing the Tyrrhenian wall lizard.
Mangiacotti, M. & Fumagalli, M. & Cagnone, M. & Viglio, S. & Bardino, A.M. & Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. (2019) -
Colour polymorphism occurs when two or more genetically-based colour morphs permanently coexist within an interbreeding population. Colouration is usually associated to other life-history traits (ecological, physiological, behavioural, reproductive ...) of the bearer, thus being the phenotypic marker of such set of genetic features. This visual badge may be used to inform conspecifics and to drive those decision making processes which may contribute maintaining colour polymorphism under sexual selection context. The importance of such information suggests that other communication modalities should be recruited to ensure its transfer in case visual cues were insufficient. Here, for the first time, we investigated the potential role of proteins from femoral gland secretions in signalling colour morph in a polymorphic lizard. As proteins are thought to convey identity-related information, they represent the ideal cues to build up the chemical modality used to badge colour morphs. We found strong evidence for the occurrence of morph-specific protein profiles in the three main colour-morphs of the common wall lizard, which showed both qualitative and quantitative differences in protein expression. As lizards are able to detect proteins by tongue-flicking and vomeronasal organ, this result support the hypothesis that colour polymorphic lizards may use a multimodal signal to inform about colour-morph.
Mangiacotti, M. & Fumagalli, M. & Casali, C. & BiggiogeraM. & Forneris, F. & Sacchi, R. (2023) -
The evolution of chemical signals is subject to environmental constraints. A multicomponent signal may combine semiochemical molecules with supporting compounds able to enhance communication efficacy. Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) are ubiquitous enzymes catalysing the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide, a reaction involved in a variety of physiological processes as it controls the chemical environment of the different tissues or cellular compartments, thus contributing to the overall system homeostasis. CA-IV isoform has been recently identified by mass spectrometry in the femoral gland secretions (FG) of the marine iguana, where it has been hypothesized to contribute to the chemical stability of the signal, by regulating blend pH. Lizards, indeed, use FG to communicate by delivering the waxy secretion on bare substrate, where it is exposed to environmental stressors. Therefore, we expect that some molecules in the mixture may play supporting functions, enhancing the stability of the chemical environment, or even conferring homeostatic properties to the blend. CA-IV may well represent an important candidate to this hypothesized supporting/homeostatic function, and, therefore, we can expect it to be common in FG secretions of other lizard species. To evaluate this prediction and definitely validate CA identity, we analysed FG secretions of eight species of wall lizards (genus Podarcis), combining mass spectrometry, immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy. We demonstrate CA-IV to actually occur in the FG of seven out of the eight considered species, providing an immunochemistry validation of mass-spectrometry identifications, and localizing the enzyme within the secretion mass. The predicted structure of the identified CA is compatible with the known enzymatic activity of CA-IV, supporting the hypothesis that CA play a signal homeostasis function and opening to new perspective about the role of proteins in vertebrate chemical communication.
Mangiacotti, M. & Fumagalli, M. & Scali, S: & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Cagnone, M. & Divenere, M. & Iadarola, P. & Sacchi, R. (2016) -
Mangiacotti, M. & Fumagalli, M. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Iadarola, P. & Sacchi, R. (2016) -
Femoral glands of male lacertid lizards produce waxy secretions that are involved in inter- and intraspecific chemical communication and social behaviour. The main components of these secretions are proteins (about 80%) and lipids. While the lipophilic fraction has been extensively studied and experimentally associated to male quality, the composition of the protein fraction is poorly known and its role remains hypothetical. Preliminary indications from iguanids and teiids suggest that proteins might have a communicative function, notably they could transfer information about individual identity (at the species, population, individual level). Under this scenario, the occurrence of some degree of variability in the protein patterns across populations represents a basic and necessary condition to support their communicative role. Unfortunately, data about protein variability in lacertid lizards are not available yet. We started exploring the function of proteins of femoral glands by investigating their geographic variability. Femoral secretions from 31 males of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) were collected from six different sites of peninsular and continental Italy (Lombardy, Tuscany, Marches). After lipids removal, the protein fraction was subjected to one-dimensional electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and the pairwise dissimilarity matrix among individual gel patterns was analysed by a distance-based MANOVA, with site as the grouping factor and snout-to-vent length (SVL) as a control covariate to account for lizard age. At least twelve different protein clusters were observed, with high variability within and among populations. While SVL showed no effect on the structure of the distance matrix, site was highly significant and accounted for almost 43% of the observed variation. These results agree with the hypothesis of communicative function even though experimental studies are needed to definitely address this issue.
Mangiacotti, M. & Gaggiani, S. & Coladonato, A.J. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Sacchi, R. (2019) -
Transferring identity-related information (IRI) to conspecifics may give advantage in effectively tuning intraspecific behaviour. Some lizard species use the secretions of specialized epidermal glands (femoral or cloacal) to convey IRI. Those secretions are made of lipids and proteins, the former been suggested to inform about signaller quality, the latter suspected to communicate IRI to conspecifics. Here, we tested the hypothesis that proteins broadcast IRI by analysing the movement patterns of 28 male common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) under strictly controlled experimental conditions. Lizards were videotaped in plastic terraria where the substrate scent was manipulated by filling it with a solution bearing (i) the proteins extracted from the secretions of the tested lizard (SELF); (ii) the proteins from a never-met donor from other nearby populations (NON-SELF); and (iii) the solvent alone. Lizards showed higher behavioural response to the NON-SELF treatment with respect to both CTRL and SELF ones. Further, protein concentration did not affect behavioural response, suggesting an all-or-nothing effect. Both results agree with the hypothesis that proteins may be used in chemical communication and convey IRI, demonstrating for the first time that they can be used as intraspecific signal.
Mangiacotti, M. & Gaggiani, S. & Coladonato, A.J. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Sacchi, R. (2021) -
Most lacertid lizards bear specialized epidermal glands in the cloacal region, which produce waxy secretions used in intraspecific chemical communication. These secretions are made of a variable mixture of lipids and proteins. While the former has been already proved to convey information about quality and condition of the emitter, the role of the latter has been poorly investigated. Among the hypothesized functions, proteins can carry information about individual identity, which is assumed a prerequisite for such a social communication system to work. We tested this hypothesis on Podarcis muralis using behavioural trials in a neutral arena. We extracted the protein fraction of the femoral gland secretions by solubilizing them in 1500 μL phosphate buffered saline (PBS). We prepared the substrate for the test by dropping 50 μL of the solution on each central point of a regularly gridded blotting paper sheet. After putting the sheet on the arena floor, a lizard was placed in the middle, where no drops were on, under a removable refuge. After 5 minutes of acclimatization, we removed the refuge and recorded lizard movements for 15 minutes starting from the first tongue flicking. We considered only adult males and each lizard was tested three times with three different substrates obtained using PBS solution: i) alone, i.e., without proteins inside (CTRL); ii) with proteins from the tested lizard (SELF); iii) with proteins from a never-met donor (N-SELF). The presentation order was randomized and subsequent trials were done at 24 hours distance. Lizard trajectories were automatically extracted using idTracker. Trajectory points were classified according to the sign of the residuals of the RST analysis (Residence in Time and Space analysis): negative residuals indicate a time-intensive behaviour while positive residuals indicate both time and space intensive behaviour. The proportion of positive residuals (PPR) was used as the response variable and interpreted as a restlessness proxy. We tested the substrate effect on the response by fitting a linear model with random intercept on the individual, substrate as a three level factor, and lizard body temperature and trial order as control variables, using a Bayesian estimate of model parameters. PPR showed no dependence from trial order (βtrial = -0.015 ± 0.023; Pβ<0 = 0.75), while temperature had a slight positive effect (βtemp = 0.017 ± 0.012; Pβ>0 = 0.93). PPR was increased by N-SELF treatment (βN-SELF = 0.124 ± 0.043; Pβ>0 = 1.00), while SELF showed a less probable positive effect (βSELF = 0.041± 0.044; Pβ>0 = 0.83). The probability that N-SELF PPR (0.614 ± 0.035) is higher than those of CTRL (0.490 ± 0.035) and SELF (0.531 ± 0.035) exceeds 0.95. Male common wall lizards responded differently to the protein content coming from a conspecific individual compared to a non-protein stimulus and to their own chemicals. Hence, they are able to detect proteins and they could use them to transfer identity related information.
Mangiacotti, M. & Martin, J. & López, P. & Reyes-Olivares, C.V. & Rodriguez-Ruiz, G. & Coladonato, A.J. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Sacchi, R. (2020) -
Individual recognition (IR) plays an important role in modulating social interactions of several animal species. IR may work at two fundamental levels: at class-level (CIR), if it allows group membership identification (e.g. familiar/unfamiliar), or at individual-level (true IR; TIR), if it allows uniquely recognizing conspecifics. Direct and indirect evidences suggest that many lizards are able to recognize conspecifics, notably using the secretions from femoral glands, specialized epidermal structures located in the cloacal region. Such secretions are made of a mix of lipids and proteins, the latter having been poorly studied but hypothesised to convey identity-related information. Using male Iberian Rock lizards, we set up bioassays to test the role of the protein fraction in IR, and specifically whether lizards: (1) can detect proteins from femoral glands, (2) can recognize their own proteins from those of an unfamiliar male (CIR) and (3) can distinguish between two unfamiliar protein signals (TIR). We found that femoral proteins can be actually detected, and the protein signal was enough to allow self-recognition, but not to distinguish between two unfamiliar males. These outcomes support the hypothesis that proteins from lizard femoral glands are used in intraspecific communication, at least at CIR level. The lack of TIR detection has three possible explanations: (1) finer IR abilities are actually absent in this species; (2) TIR requires a more complex and complete chemical signal or (3) a more prolonged and complete set of previous interactions among individuals is needed to lead to familiarity and TIR.
Mangiacotti, M. & Pezzi, S. & Fumagalli, M. & Coladonato, A.J. & d`Ettorre, P. & Leroy, C. & Bonnet, X. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. (2019) -
Animals modulate intraspecific signal shape and intensity, notably during reproductive periods. Signal variability typically follows a seasonal scheme, traceable through the expression of visual, acoustic, chemical and behavioral patterns. The chemical channel is particularly important in lizards, as demonstrated by well-developed epidermal glands in the cloacal region that secrete lipids and proteins recognized by conspecifics. In males, the seasonal pattern of gland activity is underpinned by variation of circulating androgens. Changes in the composition of lipid secretions convey information about the signaler’s quality (e.g., size, immunity). Presumably, individual identity is associated with a protein signature present in the femoral secretions, but this has been poorly investigated. For the first time, we assessed the seasonal variability of the protein signal in relation to plasma testosterone level (T), glandular activity and the concentration of provitamin D3 in the lipid fraction. We sampled 174 male common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) over the entire activity season. An elevation of T was observed one to two months before the secretion peak of lipids during the mating season; such expected delay between hormonal fluctuation and maximal physiological response fits well with the assumption that provitamin D3 indicates individual quality. One-dimensional electrophoretic analysis of proteins showed that gel bands were preserved over the season with an invariant region; a result in agreement with the hypothesis that proteins are stable identity signals. However, the relative intensity of bands varied markedly, synchronously with that of lipid secretion pattern. These variations of protein secretion suggest additional roles of proteins, an issue that requires further studies.
Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Bassu, L. & Nulchis, V. & Corti, C. (2013) -
Patch context is a way to describe the effect that the surroundings exert on a landscape patch. Despite anthropogenic context alteration may affect species distributions by reducing the accessibility to suitable patches, species distribution modelling have rarely accounted for its effects explicitly. We propose a general framework to statistically detect the occurrence and the extent of such a factor, by combining presence-only data, spatial distribution models and information-theoretic model selection procedures. After having established the spatial resolution of the analysis on the basis of the species characteristics, a measure of anthropogenic alteration that can be quantified at increasing distance from each patch has to be defined. Then the distribution of the species is modelled under competing hypotheses: H0 , assumes that the distribution is uninfluenced by the anthropogenic variables; H1 , assumes the effect of alteration at the species scale (resolution); and H2 , H3 … Hn add the effect of context alteration at increasing radii. Models are compared using the Akaike Information Criterion to establish the best hypothesis, and consequently the occurrence (if any) and the spatial scale of the anthropogenic effect. As a study case we analysed the distribution data of two insular lizards (one endemic and one naturalised) using four alternative hypotheses: no alteration (H0 ), alteration at the species scale (H1 ), alteration at two context scales (H2 and H3 ). H2 and H3 performed better than H0 and H1 , highlighting the importance of context alteration. H2 performed better than H3 , setting the spatial scale of the context at 1 km. The two species respond differently to context alteration, the introduced lizard being more tolerant than the endemic one. The proposed approach supplies reliably and interpretable results, uses easily available data on species distribution, and allows the assessing of the spatial scale at which human disturbance produces the heaviest effects.
Mangicotti, M. & Fumagalli, M. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Cagnone, M. & Salvini, R. & Sacchi, R. (2016) -
Femoral glands of male lizards produce waxy secretions that are involved in inter- and intraspecific chemical communication. The main components of these secretions are proteins and lipids, the latter having been extensively studied and already associated to male quality. On the opposite, the composition and role of proteins are nearly unknown, the only available information coming from few studies on iguanids. These studies got the conclusion that proteins might have a communicative function, notably they could signal individual identity. A generalization of these findings requires the extension of protein analysis to other lizard families, and the primary detection of some patterns of individual variability. Using the common wall lizard Podarcis muralis as a model species, the protein fraction of the femoral pore secretions was investigated to provide the first characterization of this component in a lacertid lizard and to explore its source of variability, as a first step to support the hypothesized communicative role. Samples of proteins from femoral secretions were collected from 6 Italian populations and subjected to 1-dimensional electrophoresis. The binary vector of the band presence/absence was used to define the individual profiles. Protein fraction is found to have a structured pattern, with both an individual and a population component. Although the former supports the potential communicative role of proteins, the latter offers a double interpretation, phylogenetic or environmental, even though the phylogenetic effect seems more likely given the climatic resemblance of the considered sites. Further studies are necessary to shed light on both these issues.
Mankhbayar, K. & Terbish, K. & Munkhbaatar, M. (1998) -
Mann, R.M. & Sánchez-Hernández, J.C. & Serra, E.A. & Soares, A.M.V.M. (2007) -
Apart from analyses for elemental contaminants in field collected specimens, very little is known about the assimilation, accumulation and toxic effects of inorganic contaminants in reptiles. This study examined the chronic accumulation of Cd in a European lacertid lizard (Podarcis carbonelli) following dietary provision of an environmentally realistic concentration of Cd for 21 weeks. Lizards were provided with Cd that had either been biologically incorporated into crickets, or as Cd(NO3)2 added superficially to crickets just prior to feeding. Among both treatment groups Cd accumulated in tissues in the following order of concentration: gut > liver > kidney > carcass. The majority of the Cd was retained within the gut, and transfer to internal organs was low. Morphological indices, brain and plasma cholinesterase activities, gut and liver metallothionein content, and standard metabolic rate were measured as biomarkers of exposure and effect; however, no differences between control lizards and Cd-treated lizards were observed.
Mann, R.M. & Serra, E.A. & Amadeu Soares, M.V.M. (2009) -
Apart from analyses for elemental contaminants in field-collected specimens, very little is known about the assimilation and accumulation of inorganic contaminants in reptiles. Recent dietary studies with reptiles (and some other vertebrates and invertebrates) have taken care to incorporate the principles of trophic transfer by pre-exposing prey items to the elemental contaminant of interest. However, there are conflicting data in the literature as to whether biologically incorporated metals are more bioavailable to consumers in a food chain than simple salts added to the diet, and this study examines this issue in a lacertid lizard. Adult individuals of Podarcis carbonelli were exposed to cadmium (Cd) in a 21-week dietary study to determine whether the form in which the Cd is provided influences assimilation efficiency for this metal. Lizards were provided with Cd that had either been biologically incorporated into crickets or as Cd(NO3)2 added superficially to crickets just prior to feeding. Radiospectrometric analysis for 109Cd in animal tissues and fecal material was used to follow Cd accumulation over the duration of exposure. The highest levels of accumulation were found within the gut. This, combined with the observation of higher rates of assimilation over the first five weeks, strongly suggests a rapid accumulation of Cd within the gut tissue followed by a slower redistribution to other tissues. No statistically different levels of Cd assimilation efficiency were detected between the two treatment groups, nor were there any statistically significant differences between the two treatment groups in relation to the proportional distribution to the gut, liver, or kidneys.
Manoj, R.R.S. & Latrofa, M.S. & Mendoza-Roldan, J.A. & Otranto, D. (2021) -
Wolbachia, a maternally transmitted Gram-negative endosymbiont of onchocercid nematodes and arthropods, has a role in the biology of their host; thus it has been exploited for the filariasis treatment in humans. To assess the presence and prevalence of this endosymbiont in reptiles and their ectoparasites, blood and tail tissue as well as ticks and mites collected from them were molecularly screened for Wolbachia DNA using two sets of primers targeting partial 16S rRNA and Wolbachia surface protein (wsp) genes. Positive samples were screened for the partial 12S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) genes for filarioids. Of the different species of lizards (Podarcis siculus, Podarcis muralis and Lacerta bilineata) and snakes (Elaphe quatuorlineata and Boa constrictor constrictor) screened from three collection sites, only P. siculus scored positive for Wolbachia 16S rRNA. Among ectoparasites collected from reptiles (Ixodes ricinus ticks and Neotrombicula autumnalis, Ophionyssus sauracum and Ophionyssus natricis mites), I. ricinus (n = 4; 2.8%; 95% CI, 0.9–7) from P. siculus, N. autumnalis (n = 2 each; 2.8%; 95% CI, 0.9–6.5) from P. siculus and P. muralis and O. natricis (n = 1; 14.3%; 95% CI, 0.7–55.4) from Boa constrictor constrictor scored positive for Wolbachia DNA. None of the positive Wolbachia samples scored positive for filarioids. This represents the first report of Wolbachia in reptilian hosts and their ectoparasites, which follows a single identification in the intestinal cells of a filarioid associated with a gecko. This data could contribute to better understand the reptile filarioid-Wolbachia association and to unveil the evolutionary pattern of Wolbachia in its filarial host.
Manolev, G.N. & Philipova, L.V. & Pulev, A.N. & Sakelarieva, L.G. (2019) -
The Bulgarian part of Hadzhidimovo Gorge (the Mesta River basin, south-western Bulgaria) was studied in March-October 2018 in order to collect data about the local herpetofauna. A preliminary checklist of the amphibians and reptiles is presented, based on bibliographic records and the field research. The list includes 25 species. The representatives of the class Amphibia are 8 (the half of them are new for the area), and the reptiles are 17 (5 of them are reported for the first time). The field records for all new species (except Pelophylax ridibundus complex) as well as for the most of the known species interesting from zoogeographic point of view are specified. It is of particular interest the discovery of Triturus ivanbureschi, Podarcis muralis, Ablepharus kitaibelii, and Platyceps najadum in the gorge.
Mantel, P. (1984) -
TERRARIUMEXPERIENCES WITH AWYROIDES NIGROPUNCTATUS. A. nigropunctatus was kept succesfully with one pair per cage, fed regularly, always an opportunity to drink, enough calcium and vitamines and kept with a shorter daylength in winter. Some of the sexual be- havior is described. Females were observed to be sexually active. Eggs were laid in clusters of four in most cases observed. Juveniles, left in the cage with their parents were not raised succesfully. Those raised separately did well on all kinds of food, even canned catfood.
Mantel, P. (1986) -
OPHISOPS ELEGANS IN THE TERRARIUM Ophisops elegans, a small species from arid regions in S.E. Europe and adjacent territories in western Asia, is kept successfully in a terrari- um. Two males and one female from Israel are kept in a 70 X 40 X 40 em vivarium. During summer the female laid three clutches of two eggs. One of the eggs produced a healthy young. The activity cycle during the year is given. A great difference between day and night tempe- rature is probably essential.
Mantel, P. (1987) -
Mantel, P. (1992) -
THE LACERTA VIRIDIS-COMPLEX Compared with the beginning of this century there has been a considerable change in taxonomy of the, mostly, green large lizards ofthe genus La- certa. Even in the last decade a lot of new facts are published on the green lizards of Turkey. A classification at the beginning of the century is given. L. agilis, L. jayakari, L. princeps, L. lepi- da, L. pater, L. schreiberi, L. pamphylica, L. stri- gata, L. media, L. trilineata and L. viridis are considered here as one group. A short discription of the species (also of the juveniles), the subspe- cies and the ranges of the species arc enumerated in this article.
Mantel, P. (1994) -
Eggs of Lacerta rudis bischoffi developed norrnally at fluctuiating, temperatures from 13,4°C to almost 40°C in an outdoor terrarium.
Mantel, P. & Mudde, P. (1987) -
NOTES ON LACERTA LAEVIS I.:acerta laevis was observed on Cyprus in the last week of March. It was found from sea-level up to 1200 m altitude. In midsummer tempera- tures on the island force the lizards afsea-level to aestivate, which might explain why L /aevis was considered erroneously to be strictly a mountain-species by some authors. The lizards show a seasonal vertical change in habitat prefe- rence: in warmer regions they live near water, or places were recently has been water. It seemes to live in colonies. In colder times, the species was found in pairs and a definite preference for water was not so clear. The lizards were obser- ved basking only in colder regions. Individuals of Lacerta laevis from Jerusalem. Israel, were kept in captivity. One part of the lizards were kept in a frost-proof greenhouse during winter and in an outdoor terrarium during the rest of the year. One female laid eight eggs, which hatched in 50 days at 29 ·c. The juveniles were born the 4th of September. Kept at 20-25 ·cat day and 10-18 ·cat night, and fed waxmoth-caterpillars and locusts, they were halfgrown at the beginning of December and fullgrown mid-Februari. In an indoor terrarium, a male and several fema- les were housed. Here they were hibernated at 10 ·c for three months. At the start of March, temperature and daylength were increased; ma- ting started mid-March, egglaying mid-April. In this terrarium many eggs were unfertilized. mannetje zodanig, dat deze zich ging Males of smaller Podarcis-species dominate those of L laevis when kept together.
Manthey, U. & Grossmann, W. (1997) -
Mantia, T. la & Lo Cascio, P. (2008) -
Manukyan, L. & Montandon, S.A. & Fofonjka, A. & Smirnov, S. & Milinkovitch, M.C. (2017) -
In vertebrates, skin colour patterns emerge from nonlinear dynamical microscopic systems of cell interactions. Here we show that in ocellated lizards a quasi-hexagonal lattice of skin scales, rather than individual chromatophore cells, establishes a green and black labyrinthine pattern of skin colour. We analysed time series of lizard scale colour dynamics over four years of their development and demonstrate that this pattern is produced by a cellular automaton (a grid of elements whose states are iterated according to a set of rules based on the states of neighbouring elements) that dynamically computes the colour states of individual mesoscopic skin scales to produce the corresponding macroscopic colour pattern. Using numerical simulations and mathematical derivation, we identify how a discrete von Neumann cellular automaton emerges from a continuous Turing reaction–diffusion system. Skin thickness variation generated by three-dimensional morphogenesis of skin scales causes the underlying reaction–diffusion dynamics to separate into microscopic and mesoscopic spatial scales, the latter generating a cellular automaton. Our study indicates that cellular automata are not merely abstract computational systems, but can directly correspond to processes generated by biological evolution.
Manzanares Palarea, A. (1980) -
Manzke, U. & Winkler, C. (1990) -
The sandlizard, Lacerta agilis, is reported from two places outside the known distribution area in Denmark and Sweden. 1. Denmark: In 1977 and 1981 three individuals could be found at the village Lildstrand in the northwest of Denmark. 2. Sweden: The observation was made in 1986 in the norrhern part of Öland-Island, 500 m norrheast of the place Nabbelund, in the dry border area of the Grankullaviken-Bay.
Manzo, C. & Capaldo, A. & Laforgia, V. & Muoio, R. & Angelini, F. & Varano, L. (2000) -
Inhibin is a glycoproteic hormone mostly produced by the gonads. Through a feedback at the pituitary level, it selectively inhibits the release of follicle-stimulating hormone. In mammals, inhibin has been found also in some extragonadal tissues such as placenta, pituitary, adrenal, spleen, kidney, brain and spinal cord. At present, no information is available about the existence of inhibin in reptiles. The aim of the present work is to localise, through immunocytochemical methods, the sites of inhibin production in male lizards during the main phases of the reproductive cycle: the culmination phase (April-June), the early regressive phase (early July), the maximal regressive phase (August) and the winter stasis (January). In the testis, immunostaining is mainly localised in the Leydig cells during the early regressive phase, while it is observed in the Sertoli cells during the maximal regressive phase. In the epididymis, the immunostaining is present only during the reproductive period at the level of secreting cells and inside its ducts. In the adrenal gland, after immunostaining, both chromaffin and steroidogenetic tissues are inhibin-positive during the whole spermatogenetic cycle, though with variable intensity throughout the year: cross-reaction appears more evident from January to April (winter stasis and culmination phase) and weaker in June. However, in captive animals, the reaction persists in chromaffin cells, but disappears in steroidogenetic cells. The functional meaning of the presence of inhibin as a factor in the local regulation of spermatogenesis is discussed.
Manzo, C. & Zerani, M. & Gobetti, A. & Di Fiore, M.M. & Angelini, F. (1994) -
Corticosterone (B) and testosterone (T) plasma levels and the effects of short (1-48 min) and long (6-192 hr) confinement stress during the various phases of the reproductive period of the male lizard, Podarcis sicula sicula, were studied; in addition, the in vitro effects of B on the T secretion by testis and adrenals were evaluated. Plasma B was highest during the mating phase and plasma T was highest during the aggressive phase. Confinement stress caused an increase of B plasma levels within 12 min of capture and a decrease in plasma T within 48 min of capture; B increase and T decrease continued for 48 hr, but, after 192 hr of confinement, the levels of these two steroids became similar to those found a few minutes after capture. The basal release of T by the testes and of B and T by adrenals mirrored the trends seen in the systemic circulation. In in vitro experiments B treatment decreased T by testis and adrenal tissue release in aggressive and mating phases. These data suggest that B could involved in the reproduction of P.s. sicula by acting on T synthesis to reduce aggressive behavior and allow breeding.
Maoret, F. & Beltrami, G. & Bertolucci, C. & Foa, A. (2014) -
The present investigation was aimed at testing whether the lizard sky polarization compass is time compensated. For this purpose, ruin lizards, Podarcis sicula, were both trained and tested for orientation inside a Morris water maze under clear skies with the sun not in view. During training, lizards showed a striking bimodal orientation along the training axis, demonstrating their capability of determining the symmetry plane of the sky polarization pattern and thus the use of polarization information in orientation. After reaching criteria, lizards were kept 7 days in a 6-h fast clock-shift treatment and then released with the sun not in view. Six-hour clock-shifted lizards showed a bimodal distribution of directional choices, which was oriented perpendicularly to the training axis, as it was expected on the basis of the clock-shift. The results show that the only celestial diurnal compass mechanism that does not need a direct vision of the sun disk (i.e., the sky polarization compass) is a time-compensated compass.
Maragou, P. (1997) -
Maragou, P. & Chondropoulos, B.P. & Valakos, E.D. (1999) -
Variation in the reproductive traits of Greek populations of Podarcis erhardii, P. peloponnesiaca, and P. taurica living in similar habitats along the same latitude was examined. Female body size, clutch size, and egg volume were determined. In all three species, clutch size was positively correlated with maternal body size. P. erhardii appears to modulate its reproductive effort by means of variation in both egg size and number. On the other hand, egg size in P. peloponnesiaca and P. taurica has probably been optimized, and an increase in reproductive effort would result in the production of a larger number of eggs.
Maragou, P. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, S. (2001) -
Maragou, P. & Valakos, E.D. & Chondropoulos, B.P. (1997) -
Maragou, P. & Valakos, E.D. & Chondropoulos, B.P. (1998) -
Maragou, P. & Valakos, E.D. & Giannopoulos, Z. & Stavropoulou, A. & Chondropoulos, B. (1996) -
The stomach contents of 108 specimens of Podarcis peloponnesiaca (BlBRON & BORY, 1833) were examined and the results of the analysis are discussed together with prey availability data. The animals were sampled during the spring months March to May when the activity of the lizards and their prey is at its peak. According to the results of the present study, P. peloponnesiaca feeds mainly on arthropods. Imaginai Cole- optera, Diptera, insect larvae, and spiders were the most frequently encountered prey in the lizard`s environment. The same taxa were found to be numerically predominant in the stomachs of P. peloponnesiaca.
Marais, J. (1981) -
Marais, J. (2006) -
Marais, J. (2008) -
Marais, J. (2009) -
Marchadour, B. (2009) -
Marchand, M.-A. (2014) -
Marchand, M.-A. (2017) -
Marchand, M.-A. & Renet, J. & Delauge, J. (2014) -
Marchand, M.A. (2007) -
Marchesi, M. & Canova, L. (2006) -
Marchi, G. de & Bombieri, G. & Boz, B. & Leandri, F. & Richard, J. (2020) -
The Horvath’s rock lizard (Iberolacerta horvathi) is a rupicolous mountain species endemic of the eastern Alps and northern Dinaric range. The species has its known western limit of the distribution in the Veneto region of Italy. It is not known whether the species is really rare in Veneto or whether the area has been insufficiently surveyed. In addition, it is not known whether the westward distribution of the species is limited by a physiographic or by a climatic barrier. During the period 2016-2018, 118 sites were surveyed in the Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige regions. Four new occurrences of Iberolacerta horvathi were discovered in Veneto that: 1) largely fill the gap between the westernmost known site and the closest site to the east; 2) extend further west the known distribution by 9 km. In addition the species was confirmed in three already known sites. A species distribution model was developed with the software MaxEnt, using 100 occurrences from Italy, Austria and Slovenia. The best model shows that the distribution is explained by the asperity of their habitat, the sedimentary bedrock, the aspect, the average temperature of the coldest quarter, the rainfall seasonality and the average summer rainfall. The last variable appears as the most likely responsible for the rarefaction of the species at its western limit. In addition, the species distribution model suggest that the Horvath’s rock lizard might be present in some additional mountain groups where it has so far not been found yet
Marchi, G. de & Boz, B. & Bombieri, G. & Richard, J. (2019) -
Marco A. & Díaz-Paniagua C. & Hidalgo-Vila J. (2004) -
Many oviparous terrestrial species deposit flexible-shelled eggs into the soil. These eggs are sensitive to the hydration level of the nest environment. Among other factors, water exchange of eggs during incubation may be affected by the soil water potential. To evaluate whether egg aggregation influences embryonic development, we incubated flexible-shelled Schreiber`s green lizard (Lacerta schreiberi) eggs under three levels of soil water potential (wet: –150 kPa; intermediate: –650 kPa; dry: –1150 kPa) and under two levels of aggregation (aggregated: in groups of six eggs with physical contact among them; isolated: groups of six eggs each 1 cm apart). The availability of water during egg incubation influenced egg mass and hatchling size. Eggs incubated in dry soils absorbed less water and produced smaller hatchlings. The selected levels of soil water potential did not influence incubation duration or hatching success. When soil was wet or dry, we did not find any effect of egg aggregation in embryonic development. However, when soil water potential was intermediate, aggregated eggs absorbed less water and their embryos hatched at smaller sizes compared with isolated eggs. Moreover, variability and range of egg water absorption and hatchling size were higher among aggregated eggs than among solitary ones when access to water was restricted. In these cases, eggs competed with different success for water, a limited resource in the nest environment.
Marco, A. (1994) -
Marco, A. (1995) -
Marco, A. (1996) -
Marco, A. (1997) -
Marco, A. (2002) -
Marco, A. (2009) -
Marco, A. (2011) -
Marco, A. (2015) -
Marco, A. (2017) -
Marco, A. & Diaz Paniagua, C. (2004) -
Marco, A. & López-Vicente, M. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2004) -
Marco, A. & López-Vicente, M.L. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2005) -
Many reptile species dig underground nests where they deposit eggs with flexible and permeable shells that have physical contact with the soil and are highly permeable to soil water and gases. Iberian rock lizard eggs (Lacerta monticola cyrenni) incubated in acidic substrates suffered significant impairment to their development. Therefore, soil pollution could be affecting embryonic development. Low pH had a negative effect on egg water exchange, hatchling size and locomotor performance. In all cases, pH had no effect on incubation duration and embryo survival. At substrate pH of 4 and 10, eggs absorbed less water and final egg size and weight was lower than at neutral pH. Hatchlings from eggs incubated in acidic substrates had lower mass (up to 28 % of weight), SVL, and tail length than controls. Running speed – a good indicator of lizard fitness – was also affected by substrate pH. Embryos incubated at pH 4 ran slower than controls. The alteration of the water absorption process that low substrate pH had on eggs during incubation partially explained the observed effects on hatchling characteristics. These sublethal effects may influence the survival or success of juveniles during or after their first wintering.
Marco, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1988) -
Marco, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1989) -
Marco, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1990) -
Marco, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1998) -
Clutch size and egg mass are not related in a mountain population of Lacerta schreiberi. This endemic Iberian lacertid lays only one clutch (7-24 eggs) per year. Synchronicity among breeding females is related to a long incubation period, which leaves a short activity period for juveniles before their first wintering. The length of the incubation period shows a strong relationship with environmental temperature. Vitellogenesis starts at the beginning of the activity season, and clutch size is related to female SVL. Clutch size corrected for maternal SVL is not correlated with egg mass and shows no variation among years. However, egg size and hatchling SVL show among-year and interindividual variation and are not related to female SVL or relative clutch mass. Egg mass is positively correlated only with the laying date. We suggest that clutch size depends only on stored lipids remaining after wintering and environmental factors could be responsible for egg size variation during vitellogenesis.
Marco, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1999) -
Schreiber`s green lizard Lacerta schreiberi showed a high degree of overlap in individual home ranges which the males did not actively defend. The number of mates and estimated mating success of males were not related to the size of male home ranges. The population sex ratio was skewed towards males and a promiscuous mating system was detected; individual males mated with 0-4 females. Mating frequency, number of mates, and mating success of males were positively correlated with snout-vent length. Moreover, there was assortative mating by size. Males guarded individual mated females for several hours, keeping in physical contact with them, and attacking approaching males. Male contest success was related to body size, but not to home range size. The winning males mated more often with more females and probably had higher reproductive success. However, males could not guard more than one female simultaneously and they rarely monopolized individual females which were polyandrous.
Marco, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2001) -
Marco, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Gil-Costa, M.J. (1994) -
The mountain population of Lacerta schreiberi studied at the Sistema Central (Spain) showed a narrow and highly synchronized reproductive period, adjusted to short periods of annual activity, that are characteristic of these Iberian areas. Adult females reached sexual maturity at a minimum age of four years. Only one clutch of eggs is laid per year. The average clutch size of 14 eggs was positively correlated with female body size. Clutch weight was high (25 to 56% of net female weight), and incubation time was long (65 to 110 days). During incubation eggs reached three times their initial weight. We found a noticeable variability in some reproductive characteristics during the three years under study and among individual females. The greatest phenotypic plasticity was in the size of the eggs, incubation time, and the size of hatchlings, while clutch size showed a higher stability in its average values.
Marco, A. & Pollo, C.P. (1993) -
Marcos-Leon, B. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2001) -
Marcuzzi, G. (1959) -
Marghoub, A. & Williams, C.J.A. & Leiote, J.V. & Kirby, A.C. & Kéver, L. & Porro, L.B. & Barrett, P.M. & Bertazzo, S. & Abzhanov, A. & Vickaryous, M. & Herrel, A. & Evans, S.E. & Moazen, M. (2022) -
Vertebrate skin is a remarkable organ that supports and protects the body. It consists of two layers, the epidermis and the underlying dermis. In some tetrapods, the dermis includes mineralised organs known as osteoderms (OD). Lizards, with over 7,000 species, show the greatest diversity in OD morphology and distribution, yet we barely understand what drives this diversity. This multiscale analysis of five species of lizards, whose lineages diverged ∼100–150 million years ago, compared the micro- and macrostructure, material properties, and bending rigidity of their ODs, and examined the underlying bones of the skull roof and jaw (including teeth when possible). Unsurprisingly, OD shape, taken alone, impacts bending rigidity, with the ODs of Corucia zebrata being most flexible and those of Timon lepidus being most rigid. Macroscopic variation is also reflected in microstructural diversity, with differences in tissue composition and arrangement. However, the properties of the core bony tissues, in both ODs and cranial bones, were found to be similar across taxa, although the hard, capping tissue on the ODs of Heloderma and Pseudopus had material properties similar to those of tooth enamel. The results offer evidence on the functional adaptations of cranial ODs, but questions remain regarding the factors driving their diversity.
Margot, A. (1946) -
Margotta, V. (2014) -
In adult terrestrial heterothermic vertebrates, spontaneous or experimentally induced plasticity of the brain is widely demonstrated. This phenomenon is more pronounced in Amphibians than in lacertilians, the most investigated among the Reptiles. In the lizard it has been observed that the summer photoperiod and temperature exert a positive influence on the proliferative activity of cerebral putative stem cells, which then differentiate into glial or neuronal cells. In the present investigation, the behaviour of proliferating neural cells has been investigated by immunocytochemistry in the brain of normal adult Podarcis sicula caught in their habitat in summer. The results, qualitatively evaluated, were compared with those on normal lizards of the same species, caught from the wild in late spring and previously analysed by the same author. The comparison showed that summer environment stimulates cell proliferation, although to a limited extent. This response seems to involve the quiescent cells which mainly populate the ependymal layer of the forebrain, the telencephalic hemispheres being the best provided with these undifferentiated cells, while no substantial differences from spring values were found in more caudal cerebral portions. The comparison between present findings and previously reported ones indicates that summer environment stimulates the proliferation of putative neuronal stem cells but only in the forebrain; this proliferation might not be sufficient to support the regeneration upon partial removal of this portion of the encephalon, and previous findings of a much higher regenerative capacity in the lizard brain upon cerebral injury might depend on factors linked to injury itself or to the studied species and their habitat.
Margry, K. & Heitmans, W.R.B. (2021) -
Marherr, E. (1928) -
Marherr, E. (1937) -
Marián, M. (1960) -
Marián, M. (1963) -
Marián, M. (1967) -
Marián, M. (1971) -
Im Rahmen des von der Ungarischen Akademie der Wissenschaften unterstützten Programms zur Erforschung der Sodagebiete des Alföld werden seit acht Jahren systematische herpetologische und ornithologische Untersuchungen der Sodateiche der südlichen Teile des Alföld durchgeführt. Im Gebiet jenseits der Theiß stammen Beobachtungen von den Teichen von Kakasszek und Fehertö (bei Kardoskut), weiterhin vom Kunfehertö und Dongertö im Donau— Theiß-Zwischenstromgebiet. Nachfolgend sollen kurz die in diesen Biotopen lebenden Amphibien-, Reptilien- und Avesarten angeführt und ihre Umwelt umrissen werden.
Marián, M. (1981) -
Marian, M. & Szabó, I. (1968) -
Mariani, A. (1933) -
Marietan, I. (1958) -
Marijnissen, J. & Vergeer, L. (1986) -
Marin, G. & Sabbadin, A. (1959) -
Maritz, B. (2012) -
Marmo, F. & Franco, E. & Balsamo, G. (1981) -
The otoliths of embryos and young animals of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula were studied by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Two types of crystal that give different X-ray diffraction patterns were found in the membranous labyrinth of Podarcis. The crystals consist of calcite or aragonite and are easily distinguished by scanning electron microscopy because of their different morphology. The two calcium carbonate crystal forms are not mixed at random but are present in the embryo from the very beginning in specific sites. The endolymphatic sac contains aragonite crystals while the saccule contains calcite crystals adjacent to the wall, in addition to a preponderance of aragonite crystals. The utricle and lagena contain only calcite crystals. The presence of two crystal forms of calcium carbonate in the membranous labyrinth are discussed in terms of differing genetic and functional significance.
Marmol Marin, G.M. del (2012) -
Marnell, F. (2002) -
Marques, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2006) -
Marques, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2007) -
Marques, M.J. & Maymone, M. & Luis, C. & Brito, J.C. & Catalano, I. & Paulo, O.S. (1996) -
Marques, M.P. & Ceríaco, L.M.P. & Blackburn, D.C. & Bauer, A.M. (2018) -
The present work constitutes an historical atlas of all known bibliographic records of amphib- ians and reptiles of Angola. It is the first attempt to compile in a single document all the records scattered through hundreds of publications, published from the first half of the nineteenth century to the present day, and provide a critical taxonomic revision of the herpetofauna of the country. An introductory text discusses the Angolan socio-political and physiographic landscape, the history of herpetological research in the country, and the diversity, distribution and endemism of Angolan her- petofauna. It also provides a summary of the conservation concerns surrounding the herpetological fauna. For each taxon noted in the literature we provide a detailed taxonomic account, including data on the original description, its IUCN assessment status, global distribution, georeferenced records for each known occurrence in Angola (accompanied by a point locality map), and taxo- nomic and distributional notes. A synoptic list of all documented Angolan amphibian and reptile species is provided as are lists of taxa previously erroneously assigned to the Angolan fauna. We recognize 117 species of frogs and 278 species of reptiles as occurring in Angola, although many of these represent species complexes or are currently recognized under names of convenience pending taxonomic evaluation. In one instance we provide a replacement name, Trachylepis monardi nom. nov., to deal with an instance of secondary homonymy. The Atlas is intended to be a working reference for both current research and conservation planning, as well as a catalyst for future work.The interest shown by specialists in the study of Angolan specimens dates back more than one hundred years. Since the nineteenth century, books and papers have been published on the topic as the result of these investigations. The first major bibliographic reference about the Angolan herpetofauna, Herpétologie d’Angola et du Congo by José Vicente Barbosa du Bocage, dates from 1895. Many researchers and publications followed, greatly enriching the scientific bibliography on the topic. However, the scattered nature of the published works, as well as the dearth of available specimens from earlier times, has made it difficult for researchers, scholars or curious amateurs to access to this information. Because of these difficulties, and to facilitate the access to available data on the Angolan herpetofauna, the Ministry of Environment, through its National Institute of Biodiversity and Conservation Areas, decided to present, in a single volume, all the available scientific records published so far on the diversity of amphibians and reptiles. Such a task, which has its basis in the National Strategy and Action Plan for Biodiversity and Conservation Areas of Angola, was dependent upon the helpful collaboration of important international partners. The present Atlas will be of inestimable assistance to the study of the Natural History of Ango- la, not only because of its standardized taxonomic and geographical accounts with distribution maps for all of the amphibians and reptiles known in Angola, but also because of its competent approach to the physiography, climate, biomes, historical herpetological research in Angola, conservation, and other topics. The thoughtful way the book is arranged, with straightforward text, clear tables and interesting figures, makes it easy for even laymen to read and understand. At 501 pages long, profusely documented and richly illustrated, this Atlas provides a grand guided tour through the diversity of the Angolan herpetofauna, from the most remote and spectac- ular places of the country. Through mountains and escarpments, plains and valleys, savannas and dense forests, rivers and streams, lakes and lagoons, this work encompasses the entire country, aking us on an enlightening tour of knowledge. The methodical labor and persistence of the specialists who produced the present work, ensure that it not only contributes to scientific history, through its compilation of research already completed, but also suggests future directions for researchers and scholars devoted to the topic. Further, this substantial volume will also inform the national authorities with respect to environ- ment protection and conservation policies. Given all this, one can see that the present work, reflecting the contributions of the men and women who created it, is destined to become a standard reference to the scientific literature of the country, especially in regard to this part of its fauna. The quality of the scientific information poured into the following pages certainly qualifies the authors of this accurate work as leading herpetologists and places them among the important researchers to have served Angola in the course of its scientific history.
Marques, M.P. & Ceríaco, L.M.P. & Heinicke, M.P. & Chehouri, R.M. & Conradie, W. & Tolley, K.A. & Bauer, A.M. (2022) -
The genus Heliobolus comprises four recognized species, all endemic to sub-Saharan Africa. Of these, only Heliobolus lugubris occurs in southern Africa, its distribution extending from Angola in the west to Mozambique in the east and reaching as far south as parts of northern South Africa. Like many of the reptile species that occur in southern Africa, Heliobolus lugubris is poorly studied, and preliminary investigation suggested that it may contain cryptic diversity. The present work focusses on the Angolan population of H. lugubris and uses an integrative taxonomic approach based on morphological, coloration and DNA sequence data. The results indicate that some of the current and historical specimens of H. lugubris from Angola do not correspond to the nominotypical form, and that differences between specimens suggest the presence of two additional species, described here as Heliobolus bivari sp. nov. from the southernmost xeric/desertic regions and plateau of Namibe Province, southwestern Angola and H. crawfordi sp. nov. from the Serra da Neve inselberg north through the sub-desert coastal regions of northern Namibe, Benguela, and Kwanza Sul provinces. Nominotypical Heliobolus lugubris is confirmed to occur in Cuando Cubango Province, southeastern Angola.
Marquès, R. & Pretus, J.L. (2001) -
Márquez-Ferrando, R. & Santos, X. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2006) -
Márquez-Ferrando, R. & Santos, X. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2007) -
Quantification of heavy metal concentrations in biota is a common technique that helps environmental managers measure the level of pollutants circulating in ecosystems. Despite interest in heavy metals as indicators of localized pollution, few studies have assessed these pollutants in reptiles. In 1998, the tailing pond of a pyrite mine near Aznalcóllar (southwestern Spain), containing mud with high heavy metal concentrations, collapsed, releasing 6 million m(3) of toxic sludge into the Guadiamar Basin. Here we analyze heavy metal concentrations in the most common reptile in the area, the large psammodromus, Psammodromus algirus, a rather small lizard. We quantified levels of several elements (Hg, Sb, Cd, Cr, Tl, Sn, Ba, Cu, Pb, Sr, Mn, Rb, As, and Zn) in lizard tail clips collected in and around the affected area during the springs of 2005 and 2006. Samples were collected from two contaminated localities, one directly affected by the spill, and another adjacent to the tailing pond, but not covered by toxic mud. We also collected samples from a nonpolluted control site in the same basin. We found higher concentrations of As, Tl, Sn, Pb, Cd, and Cu in lizards from the affected area than in lizards from the control site, indicating the continued presence of heavy metal pollutants in the terrestrial food chain 8 years after the mine accident. We did not uncover sexual or annual differences in heavy metal concentrations, although concentrations increased with lizard size. We discuss how heavy metals moved across the food chain to lizards, despite intensive restoration efforts after the accident, and suggest that reptiles to be included in biomonitoring programs of heavy metals pollution in terrestrial habitats.
Márquez-Rodriguez, J. (2014) -
Márquez, R. & Cejudo, D. (1999) -
Márquez, R. & Cejudo, D. (2000) -
We studied the occurrence of threat display as a defensive behavior at different temperatures in two large-sized (Gallotia simonyi and Gallotia stehlini) and two small-sized (Gallotia atlantica and Gallotia caesaris) lacertids from the Canary Islands. Lizards were chased on a linear track at five temperatures (24, 28, 32, 36, and 40 C). Only adult individuals of the two large-sized species sporadically adopted the threat display, and G. stehlini used the display more often than did G. simonyi. Among these, there was no clear pattern of relationship between temperature and probability of display nor differences between sexes.
Márquez, R. & Cejudo, D. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1997) -
Marquina, R. & Fagoaga, A. & Crespo, V.D. & Ruiz-Sánchez, F.J. & Bailon, S. & Hernández, C.M. & Galván, B. (2017) -
The locality of El Salt (Middle Paleolithic, Alcoy, Spain) is mainly known by having one of the youngest Neanderthals records of the southeastern Iberian Peninsula. In this work, we have analysed the herpetofaunal fossils from the upper part of stratigraphic unit Xb, dated at 52.3 } 4.6 ka (MIS 3). The faunal list is composed by three taxa of anurans (Alytes obstetricans, Bufo bufo s.l., and Epidalea calamita), one taxon of blanid (Blanus cinereus s.l.), two taxa of lizards (Chalcides bedriagai and cf. Acanthodactylus erythrurus), and one taxon of snakes (cf. Rhinechis scalaris). All of them have a broad distribution range in the Mediterranean, with wide ecological preferences range. This association of amphibians and reptiles from the Unit Xb suggests a slightly warmer and more humid climate than the current one; with an annual temperature range less accused and a similar seasonality of the rainfall than it is recorded nowadays in Alcoy. These results may correspond to a warm period (Daansgard-Oeschger event) during the MIS 3. A landscape composed by bushland and forest patched in which some open areas were present, with presence of permanent water bodies in the nearby areas, would characterize the surroundings areas of El Salt.
Marquis, O. & Massot, M. & Galliard, J.F. le (2008) -
An evaluation of the link between climate and population dynamics requires understanding of climate effects both within and across generations. In ectothermic vertebrates, demographic responses to climate changes should crucially depend on balancing needs for heat and water. Here, we studied how temperature and rainfall regimes experienced before and during adulthood influenced reproductive performances (litter size, offspring size, and survival) in a natural population of the live-bearing common lizard, Lacerta vivipara, monitored continuously from 1989 to 2004. Rainfall regime, but not temperature, had both immediate and delayed effects on these reproductive performances. Rainfall during the first month of life was positively correlated with juvenile survival. Females experiencing more rainfall during gestation produced smaller neonates that showed greater survival when controlling for the positive effect of body size on survival. Furthermore, females that experienced heavier rainfall when in utero produced fewer but longer neonates during adulthood. These demographic effects of rainfall on adult reproductive traits may come from maternal effects of climate conditions and/or from delayed effects of rainfall on the environment experienced early in life. Irrespective of the precise mechanism, however, this study provides evidence of intergenerational climate effects in natural populations of an ectothermic vertebrate.
Marrero Rodriguez, A. & Garcia Cruz, C.M. (1978) -
En el presente trabajo se describe un nuevo yacimiento de restos esqueléticos subfósiles de dos especies de vertebrados extintos del Terciario-Cuaternario de las Islas Canarias: Lacerta maxima Bravo, 1953 (Sauria: Lacertidae) y Canariomys bravoi Crus. et Pet., 1964 (Rodentia: Muridae), encontrados en una cueva de naturaleza volcánica en la zona alta de Icod de los Vinos (Tenerife).
Marrero, M.V. & Oostermeijer, G. & Nogales, M. & Hengstum, T. van & Saro, I. & Carqué, E. & Sosa, P.A. & Banares, A. (2019) -
Oceanic island ecosystems harbour many endemic plant and animal species, which are often threatened because they have only a few small populations. Many factors contribute to the biological viability of such populations, such as demography and population dynamics, breeding system and pollination ecology, seed dispersal and genetic variation. In a collaborative project, all these factors were studied in the rare endemic, predominantly monoecious shrub Bencomia exstipulata Svent. (Rosaceae), which grows exclusively in the national parks of El Teide (Tenerife) and La Caldera de Taburiente (La Palma). Demography was monitored through annual censuses of individual plants in a natural and an augmented population on Tenerife. The breeding system and reproductive success were studied through bagging and pollination experiments, and insect visitation censuses. Seed dispersal by animals was assessed using cafetaria experiments. With matrix projection models and stochastic simulations, we show that the Tenerife population was demographically stable. This was largely explainable by the high survival of adult individuals. Despite frequent germination, successful seedling recruitment was very rare. Male and female flowers occurred in separate inflorescences within individuals, although some inflorescences were mixed and some shrubs were entirely male or female. Despite frequent visits by honeybees, the species is predominantly wind pollinated. Insect-proof bags reduced seed set by 12.5%, and pollen-proof bags by 44%. Large quantities of airborne pollen were detected on unbagged sticky microscope slides, this was 56% reduced by insect-proof and 96% by pollen-proof bags. Hence, some self-pollination also seems to occur. Cafetaria experiments showed that the local lizards (Gallotia galloti Oudart) readily eat the fruits and that the seeds pass through their intestines unharmed and germinable. Since other dispersal vectors are unknown, saurochory seems the most likely mode of dispersal. Our study strongly suggests that the population of B. exstipulata on Tenerife is viable, and that there are no significant threats associated with its breeding system, pollination or seed dispersal. To alleviate the natural extinction risk typical of narrow endemics, five main conservation measures are proposed.
Marschall, C. (1980) -
The morphological organization of monoaminergic cells and fibers in the hypothalamus of the lizards Lacerta sicula and Lacerta muralis was investigated by fluorescence histochemistry. An extensive monoaminergic system emanates from the nucleus organi paraventricularis (NOP), a circumventricular organ of the medial and posterior hypothalamus containing numerous monoaminergic perikarya. Fluorescent processes extending from these cells end as intraventricular thickenings. An extensive fiber system presumably arising from the NOP innervates the accompanying nucleus ventromedialis hypothalami (NVH) as well as the nucleus periventricularis hypothalami (NPH) and the median eminence. A monoaminergic fiber path of extrahypothalamic origin enters the preoptic/anterior hypothalamus, terminating in the nucleus paraventricularis (NP). A discrete pathway of catecholaminergic fibers courses through the hypothalamus along the ventral border of the optic tract. Levels of fluorescence intensity are highest in the spring and in castrated animals and lowest in lizards during testicular regression.
Marschner, J. (1954) -
Marschner, J. (1962) -
Marshall, K.L.A. & Philpot, K.E. & Damas-Moreira, I. & Stevens, M. (2015) -
Within-species colour variation is widespread among animals. Understanding how this arises can elucidate evolutionary mechanisms, such as those underlying reproductive isolation and speciation. Here, we investigated whether five island populations of Aegean wall lizards (Podarcis erhardii) have more effective camouflage against their own (local) island substrates than against other (non-local) island substrates to avian predators, and whether this was linked to island differences in substrate appearance. We also investigated whether degree of local substrate matching varied among island populations and between sexes. In most populations, both sexes were better matched against local backgrounds than against non-local backgrounds, particularly in terms of luminance (perceived lightness), which usually occurred when local and non-local backgrounds were different in appearance. This was found even between island populations that historically had a land connection and in populations that have been isolated relatively recently, suggesting that isolation in these distinct island environments has been sufficient to cause enhanced local background matching, sometimes on a rapid evolutionary time-scale. However, as expected, there was less evidence for heightened local matching in populations with a lower risk from avian predators and a prolonged history of volcanic activity. Overall, these results show that lizard coloration is tuned to provide camouflage in local environments, either due to genetic adaptation or changes during development. However, the occurrence and extent of selection for local matching may depend on specific conditions associated with local ecology and biogeographic history. These results emphasize how anti-predator adaptations to different environments can drive divergence within a species, which may contribute to reproductive isolation among populations and lead to ecological speciation.
Marshall, K.L.A. & Philpot, K.E. & Stevens, M. (2015) -
conspicuous sexual signals, which often have conflicting effects on survival. Here, we tested whether color variation between two island populations of Aegean wall lizards (Podarcis erhardii) is due to sexual dimorphism and differential survival of individuals varying in appearance. On both islands, we measured attack rates by wild avian predators on clay models matching the coloration of real male and female P. erhardii from each island population, modeled to avian predator vision. Avian predator attack rates differed among model treatments, although only on one island. Male-colored models, which were more conspicuous against their experimental backgrounds to avian predators, were accordingly detected and attacked more frequently by birds than less conspicuous female-colored models. This suggests that female coloration has evolved primarily under selection for camouflage, whereas sexually competing males exhibit costly conspicuous coloration. Unexpectedly, there was no difference in avian attack frequency between local and non-local model types. This may have arisen if the models did not resemble lizard coloration with sufficient precision, or if real lizards behaviorally choose backgrounds that improve camouflage. Overall, these results show that sexually dimorphic coloration can affect the risk of predator attacks, indicating that color variation within a species can be caused by interactions between natural and sexual selection. However, more work is needed to determine how these findings depend on the island environment that each population inhabits.
Marshall, K.L.A. & Stevens, M. (2014) -
Visual signals are often under conflicting selection to be hidden from predators while being conspicuous to mates and rivals. Here, we investigated whether 3 different island populations of Aegean wall lizards (Podarcis erhardii) with variable coloration among diverse island habitats exhibit simultaneous camouflage and sexual signals. We examined whether signals appear better tuned to conspecific vision as opposed to that of avian predators, and whether background-matching camouflage and sexual signals are partitioned to specific body regions. This could facilitate both covert sexual signaling and camouflage according to the viewing perspectives of predators and conspecifics. We found that lizards typically appeared twice as conspicuous to conspecifics than to avian predators against the same visual background, largely due to lizards’ enhanced sensitivity to ultraviolet, suggesting that P. erhardii signals are tuned to conspecific vision to reduce detection by predators. Males were more conspicuous than females to both predators and conspecifics. In 2 populations, male backs were relatively more camouflaged to predators compared to signaling flanks, whereas in females, exposed and concealed surfaces were camouflaged to predators and generally did not differ in background matching. These findings indicate that lizard coloration evolves under the competing demands of natural and sexual selection to promote signals that are visible to conspecifics while being less perceptible to avian predators. They also elucidate how interactions between natural and sexual selection influence signal detectability and partitioning to different body regions, highlighting the importance of considering receiver vision, viewing perspectives, and signaling environments in studies of signal evolution.
Marsili, L. & Casini, S. & Mori, G. & Ancora, S. & Bianchi, N. & D`Agostini, A. & Ferraro, M. & Fossi, M.C. (2009) -
The aim of this study was to develop and to validate a methodology based on biomarker responses and residue analysis on the terrestrial lizard Podarcis sicula to assess the ecotoxicological effects associated with on-shore oil extraction. The oil treatment plant investigated is located in Val d`Agri (southern Italy). Italian wall lizards were sampled on four stations along a transect determined on the basis of prevailing winds downwind of the oil plant. Cytochrome P450 1A1 activities (EROD and BPMO), AChE activity, PAH bile metabolites and contaminant levels (PAHs and trace elements) were measured. Major results in the evaluation of toxicological impact of oil field activity in the Italian wall lizards were obtained for Cd, Hg, total and carcinogenic PAH levels, and PAH metabolites in bile. Results obtained validate, for the first time, P. sicula as a terrestrial bioindicator for the assessment of the toxicological impact of on-shore extraction activity.
Marsol, L. & Gauthier, J. (2007) -
Märtens, B. (1996) -
Märtens, B. (1999) -
In der Porphyrhügellandschaft im Nordwes- ten von Halle (Saale) wurden Demographie, Phänologie und Habitatqualität der Zauneidech- se (L. agilis) in den Jahren 1993 - 96 untersucht. An gefangenen Zauneidechsen wurden Kopf- Rumpf- und Pileus-Länge, Geschlecht, Fangda- tum, Fangort (Koordinaten), Paarungsbissmale, Sezernieren der Femoralporen, Hinweise auf die Eiablage, Ausmaß der Narben am Kopf, Kör- pertemperatur (dorsal und ventral) und Temperatur des Fangortes erhoben. Als Indika- toren für den Flächenanspruch und für Isolationseffekte dienten demographische Daten in Verbindung mit Untersuchungen zur Raum- nutzung (maximale Distanzen, Aktionsflächen als konvexes Polygon). Ferner wurden Populati- onsgröße und -struktur berechnet. Um den Einfluss der Habitatqualität hierbei berücksichti- gen zu können, wurde die Individuendichte ermittelt und folgende Habitatparameter auf 50 - 100 m2-Teilflächen erhoben: Bedeckungsgrad und Höhe der krautigen Vegetation, Beschat- tung, Bodentiefe mit sandigem Substrat, die Zusammensetzung der Korngröße des minerali- schen Oberflächensubstrates, die Exposition und die Hangneigung. Mit linearer, schrittweiser, multipler Regression und der Hauptkomponen- tenanalyse wurde ihr Einfluss auf die Individuendichte quantitativ bewertet. Um de- mographische und phänologische Schwankungen in Hinsicht auf die Habitatquali- tät und die Wetterschwankungen interpretieren zu können, wurden die Temperaturen der Luft (Meßstation), der Mikrohabitate (Data-Logger, Infrarotscanner) und der Körperoberfläche akti- ver Zauneidechsen sowie der Oberfläche der Fangstellen gemessen (Infrarotscanner). Zur Klärung der Bedeutung von Habitatqua- lität, Flächengröße und Isolation, wurden 4 Untersuchungsflächen (UF 1 - 4) verschiedener Größe ausgewählt, die entweder innerhalb von Ackerflächen lagen oder von Brache umgeben waren. Untersuchungen auf 9 Ergänzungsflächen dienten der Ermittlung der Austauschraten zwischen Populationen. Unter 1692 Fängen wurden 1009 Individuen (fotografische Wiedererkennung) identifiziert. Mit abnehmender Flächengröße werden Popula- tionsgröße und Individuendichte kleiner, wobei UF 1 & 2 von Brache und UF 3 & 4 von Acker- fläche umgeben wurden. • UF 1: 8.800 m2, Population: ca. 260 - 550 Subadulti und Adulti (2,8 - 6,3 Ind./100 m2). • UF 2: 9200 m2, Population: Schätzung mit CAPTURE nicht möglich, mindestens 74 Individuen. • UF 3: 1574 m2, Population: Schätzung mit CAPTURE nicht möglich; ca. 12 - 20 A- dulti und Subadulti (0,7 - 1,3 Ind./100 m2). • UF 4: 776 m2, Population: Schätzung mit CAPTURE nicht möglich; ca. 1 - 4 Adulti und Subadulti (0,1 – 0,5 Ind./100 m2). In Zonen gleicher Habitatqualität war die In- dividuendichte in der UF 1 (bis 21 Individuen) um ein Vielfaches höher als in der UF 3 (bis 3 Ind./100 m2) und der UF 4 (bis 2 Ind./100 m2): Habitatparameter mit einem hoch signifikanten Einfluss auf die Individuendichte waren Bede- ckungsgrad und Höhe der krautigen Vegetation, Bodentiefe, Beschattung und Exposition. Ihr gemeinsamer Einfluss von 42 bis 91 % schwankt abhängig vom Probenumfang, dem Wetterver- lauf und der Variabilität der Habitatparameter einer Fläche. Anhand von Mittelwert und Maxi- mum der Individuendichte der Teilflächen konnten Pflanzengesellschaften als Zonen ein- heitlicher Habitatqualität charakterisiert werden: ⇒ Optimale Qualität (1⁄2 Maximum bis Ma- ximum): Vegetationshöhe: 60 - > 80 cm, Bodentiefe: 60 - > 70 cm, Bedeckung: 60 - > 80 %, Beschattung: 0 - 30 %, Exposition von WSW - ESE (120 - 240°). ⇒ Normale Qualität (1⁄2 Mittelwert bis 1⁄2 Maximum): zwischen Optimal und Pessimal. ⇒ Pessimale Qualität (1 Individuum - 1⁄2 Mittelwert): Vegetationshöhe 40 - 50 cm, Bo- dentiefe: 30 - 40 cm, Bedeckung: 30 - 50 %, Beschattung: > 40 %, Exposition zwischen 260 - 100°. ⇒Lebensfeindliche Qualität (< 1 Indivi- duum): Vegetationshöhe: < 40 - 50 cm, Bedeckung: < 30 - 50 %, Bodentiefe < 30 - 40 cm, Beschattung: > 40 - 60 %, Exposition: 270 - 90°. Lebensfeindlich sind Felsgrus- und Ackerflä- chen sowie Gebüsche und Wälder. Eher pessimal sind nordexponierte Heideflächen und Löwenzahnbrachen. Normale Habitatqualität haben vornehmlich südlich exponierte Trocken- rasen, wobei die Individuenzahlen in den kurzwüchsigeren Assoziationen mit geringerer Bodentiefe (Filipendulo-Helictotrichetum) niedriger sind als in hochwüchsigeren Assoziationen mit tieferem Boden (Festucetum sulcatae). Normale bis optimale Habitatqualität haben Arrhenatheretum elatioris, Falcario-Agropyretum und Festuco- Brachypodietum. Von Ackerfläche umgebene Habitatinseln sind isoliert, da • Wanderungen zwischen Untersuchungs- und Ergänzungsflächen nicht festgestellt wurden (Distanz ≥ 50 m), • innerhalb der Untersuchungsflächen Zauneidechsen selten in einer maximalen Distanz über 23 m zwischen zwei Fangkoor- dinaten wieder gefangen wurden, unabhängig von der Zeit zwischen zwei Fängen (r2 < 0,04. n = 593). Die größte Distanz lag bei nur 91 m. Die Aktionsflächen lagen im wesentli- chen zwischen 30 - 70 m2. Größere Aktionsflächen bildeten die Ausnahme (Ma- ximum: ca. 500 m2), • lebensfeindliche Bereiche gemieden und maximal bis zu einer Distanz von 10 m über- quert wurden. Das Ausmaß der Narben am Kopf nahm bei den JJ (> 50 mm KR) mit der Körpergröße zu und dokumentiert so permanente Rivalität. Ver- mutlich können hohe Individuendichten der JJ deshalb nur in hoher Vegetation und tiefem Boden auftreten, weil sie dort besser voreinander getarnt sind. Schwankungen im Reproduktionserfolg (0,5 - 2,2 Subadulti pro K) und der Mortalitätsrate pro Altersstufe (23 - 70 %) wirkten sich in den klei- nen Populationen (UF 3 & 4) durch extreme Störungen der Populationsstruktur aus. Zauneidechsen wurden am häufigsten auf krautiger Vegetation von 80 - 100 % oder auf vegetationsfreien Stellen gefangen. Mikrohabitate in hoher Krautvegetation, bedeckungsfreien Stellen und variablem Relief boten am häufigsten Temperaturbedingungen, die den Temperaturen an der Körperoberfläche aktiver Zauneidechsen (22 - 38° C) und ihrer Substrate (21 - 35° C) entsprachen. In der Zeit der Hibernation erreich- ten die Bodentemperaturen noch in 50 - 100 cm Tiefe knapp unter 0° C. In 20 cm Tiefe lagen die Temperaturen in Kältephasen deutlich unter dem Gefrierpunkt. Mittlere Temperaturen von Mitte April bis Mai um 10° C und Sommertemperaturen um 15° C verzögerten Erscheinen, Paarungsbeginn, Eiablage, Schlupf der Juvenes und Hibernation um bis zu einem Monat und verlangsamten das Wachstum der Subadulti bis auf ein Viertel (JJ: 0,1 und KK 0,149 mm/d) im Vergleich zu Frühlingstemperaturen um 15° C und Sommer- temperaturen um 20° C (JJ: 0,38 und KK: 0,45 mm/d). Bei Frühlingstemperaturen um 15° C nahmen Subadulti nach der 1. und sonst nach der 2. Hibernation an der Reproduktion teil. Die Populationsgröße ist abhängig von der Habitatqualität und der Flächengröße. Kleine Populationen wie hier die UF 4 sind langfristig nicht überlebensfähig. Die lückenhafte Alters- struktur der Population der UF 3 deutet darauf hin, dass die Population gefährdet ist, auszuster- ben. Die erforderliche Mindestgröße für eine langfristig überlebensfähige Population kann mit den vorliegenden Erkenntnissen nicht bestimmt werden.
Märtens, B. & Grosse, W.-R. (1996) -
The white patterns of the vertebral zone of the sand lizard show characteristic, individual patterns, which are present even at the moment of hatching. Photos of these patterns allow long time individual recognition, combined with only low restricting influences to the lizards.
Märtens, B. & Henle, K. & Grosse, W.R. (1997) -
Märtens, B. & Henle, K. & Kuhn, W. & Krug, R. & Jost, K. & Grosse, W. & Wissel, C. (1996) -
Lizards are important in the biocoenoses of a wide range of habitat types and are politically accepted target species for environmental impact assessments. They play an important part in food chains and are involved in the dynamics of microhabitats (Martens et al. in press). In some states of Germany, the sand lizard became endangered (Heusinger et al. 1992). A decline of the sand lizard, which results mainly from anthropogenic habitat alterations (Blab & Novak 1989), is also reported from England (Corbett 1988), Sweden (Andren et al. 1988), and other countries (Honegger 1981). Despite a large number of descriptive studies on habitat requirements, quantitative habitat models are lacking. This study analyses the significance of habitat quality and heterogeneity for the survival of sand lizards in fragmented landscapes and presents a habitat model to link local demographic data to the landscape level for environmental planning purposes.
Märtens, B. & Stephan, T. (1997) -
Martens, E.v. (1876) -
Martens, E.v. (1892) -
Martens, H. (1996) -
Martens, H. (1997) -
A review of a recently published analysis of the zoogeography of the Syrian herpetofauna is presented. Nine taxa are deleted from the faunal list, six subspecies and species respectively are added, in three the occurrences are questionable and in two the taxonomy and systematic^ are discussed; moreover, several additional `doubtful` Syrian reptiles are listed. Critical comments are made on the numerical analysis, the ecozones of the country and the zoogeographical affinities o f its herpetofaunal elements.
Martens, J.W.G. & Spaargaren, J.J. (1988) -
n 1986 werd in de provincie Limburg een oecologisch onderzoek gedaan aan de zandhagedis Lacerta agilis. Door buiten het voortplantingsseizoen nestplaatsen af te graven tot een diepte van 20 cm. konden in totaal 1876 eischalen worden verzameld en onderzocht, hetgeen belangrijke ecologische informatie opleverde over de voortplanting van de zandhagedis. Het verslag bestaat uit drie delen: 1. Gegevens over de eieren. In dit hoofdstuk worden ei-mortaliteit, legselgrootte en netto opbrengst per legsel besproken. 2. Temperatuurbepalingen. Gedurende 5 etmalen zijn ruim 4000 metingen verricht, waardoor een duidelijk beeld is onstaan over de natuurlijke omstandigheden in hagedissen nesten. 3. Aspekten van eiafzetplaatsen en hun omgeving. Hier komen onder meer de afmetingen, het substraat, de hellings- en expositie richting en de omringende vegetatie aan de orde. Daarnaast worden aanbevelingen gedaan m.b.t. verder onderzoek en maatregelen ten behoeve van beheer van de zandhagedis.
Martijn, D. (2005) -
Martijn, D. (2006) -
During a short visit in Hyéres (South France) im Mai 2005 a pair of Podarcis sicula sicula could be observed at the garden center “Jardinerie du gros pin”. The small introduced populaion was first mentioned by BRUECKERS (2003).
Martijn, D. (2017) -
Experience with the Vaucher’s wall lizard, Podarcis vaucheri This is a not often kept wall lizard, and not much is known about its husbandry. The author received three animals (2.1) of this species from another hobbyist. These were quite small lizards and they were kept in small terrariums, one pair together and one male alone. Although not expected the couple mated on July 1 and the female produced four eggs on July 14. The eggs were incubated in vermiculite on top of one of the terrariums, where the temperatures varied from 25° to 32ºC. After one month one of the eggs started to shrink but didn’t hatch. It contained an already dead embryo. The other eggs hatched after some six weeks of incubation. The three juveniles looked lively and healthy. After some months they proved to be two males and one female. They were kept together in a small container, without any territorial problems and they seemed to thrive. After some time they were placed in a bigger terrarium of 40x30x45 cm. In this terrarium one of the males started to become dominant and to suppress its siblings. When the animals were relocated in the old container hostilities seized. They could be kept together for some months, but in the end the biggest male started to become dominant again and was relocated. Now the second male started to become dominant over the female. The female was reunited with the first male, and she was accepted without problems. But in June the next year the juvenile living apart became ill and died, as did the other male. The author never experienced this before, although he kept small wall lizards of different species for many years without problems. The female stayed healthy and thrived.. She was paired with her father, her mother was paired with the other adult male.
Martijn, D.M. (2000) -
Martijn, D.M. (2002) -
THE ITALIAN WALL LIZARD, Podarcis sicula, PART I This European lizard used to be one of the most kept reptiles in captivity in the Netherlands. This was the species a lot of hobbyists starred with. Nowadays its position is taken over by other spe- cies, for instanee Phelsuma or Anolis species. Partly this is a result of the more strict legislation for keeping European reptiles. The maximum length of this animal is 300 mm (head + body 90 mm), but in general smaller. A robust lizard with a large head, compared to other wall lizards. T h e masseteric scale is separated from the supratemporal scales. The colars are very varia- bie, aften green with longitudinal stripes, mortled with brown, black and/or dear spots. There are 48 subspecies, divided in the sicula-, the tyrrhenica- and the campestris-group. The most aften seen subspecies in captivity are R s. sicula, R s. campestris and R s. cettii. R s. sicula: very robust and bigheaded. Ground color aften green, which tends to change into brown in the summer. Several patterns are found, for instanee striped, reticulated and (almost) with- out pattern. Especially the last two patterns are typical for R s. sicula. Distribution: ltalian peninsula south of Rome, Sicily. Both ground-dweller as well as dimhing species, alrhough when coexisting with R wagleriana (ground-dweller) almast exdusi- vely living on walls, rocks and higher parts in the area. R s. campestris. compared to R s. sicu/a rnales with a shorter and more narrow head, both sexes with big- ger eyes, habitus more squar. Green with longitudi- nal stripes, no change in color during the year. Reticulated and unpatterned animals are rare. Distribution: ltalian peninsula north of Rome, the coast of farmer Yougoslavia, parts of Corsica. Strictly a ground-dweller, even when there are no coexisting dimhing species. Behavior a bit like Lacerta agilis. R s. cettii: compared to R s. sicu/a body more flatte- ned, the head is flat (platycephal) whereas R s. sicu- la has a pyramidocephal head. Brown reticulated pattem on a yellow-green to blue-green back- ground, in contrast to the reticulated R s. sicu/a aften with a vertebral zigzag stripe. Distribution: Sardinia and southern Corsica. In southern Corsica both ground-dweller as well as dimhing species, on Sardinia inhabiting the coast and the valleys, the higher parts of the island are inhabited by the climbing species Potlarcis tiliguerta.
THE ITALIAN WALL LIZARD, Potlarcis sicula, PART 11 This species is very easy ro keep in captivity. Minimum dimensions for the terrarium are 80x50x70 cm (lxwxh) for a couple, alrhough for P. s. campestris a smaller an less high terrarium can he sufficient. This can he fitred up with arrificial rocks made of polystyrene covered with cement and painted in narural designs. Hiding-places can he provided using small ceramic jars and hollow branches of the cork-oak. This makes it easy to catch or transfer the animals. The author uses anti- coccicliosis sand (that has been heated at 400°C) to cover the bottom. Shell-grit or pieces of sepia are scattered on the sand now and then. Water with some vitaminsis provided and rhe animals are fed with all kinds of insects and spiders. lt is strongly recommended not ro keep other spe- cies in the same terrarium. Even animals of the samespecies and sex can behave aggressive rowards each other. At best a male and a female can he kept rogether, but an extra terrarium should he kept in reserve. This can also be used when rhe female has laid her eggs, to let her gain strength. An hibernation or inactive period in the winter, for instanee from half November until half February, is recommended. The author uses for rhis the vege- tabie-tray of an old refrigerator. The jars and hol- low branches, with the animals inside, are moved ro the tray and covered partly with potring com- post. A small dish o f water should always he provi- ded!
Martín Alonso, A. et al. (2023) -
RedEXOS is integrated into the State Warning Network by the Decree 117/2020, of November 19. Its main objective is to prevent the establishment of new outbreaks or populations of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) or those with invasive potential in the Canary Islands. The Network is also in charge of compiling and coordinating the information on the appearance of IAS included in the Spanish Catalog of Invasive Alien Species or in the List of worrisome invasive alien species for the outermost region of the Canary Islands, or species with invasive potential in the Canary Islands that can be identified as such by the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands. This oral presentation presents two species of invasive reptiles which are included in the List of worrying invasive alien species for the outermost region of the Canary Islands in which this official network of the Government of the Canary Islands, RedEXOS, is currently involved. Anolis carolinensis is a small arboreal lizard native to the southeastern United States and Mexico, in the State of Tamaulipas. Introduced populations can be found in the Bahamas, Grand Cayman Island, Anguilla and Cuba. It is also cited as introduced species in several islands as Japan; islands of Micronesia and Guam; in the Northern Mariana Islands; and in Hawaii and California, in the United States. Is a reptile with daytime habits, it feeds on insects and is considered an invasive species due to its great reproductive and dispersal capacity. In the Canary Islands, probably introduced as a stowaway in ornamental species of flora, it reproduces successfully in the south of Tenerife and some specimens have recently been detected in the northeast of the island. Chamaeleo calyptratus is a chameleon native to Yemen and southwestern Saudi Arabia. It is found in Spain (Canary Islands) and the United States (Hawaii and Florida) as an introduced species. It is adapted to living in trees and bushes; it can live in mountainous, wooded areas, or in valleys. Although they prefer a temperature range between 24 and 35 Celsius degrees, they can tolerate wide temperate ranges. It is mostly insectivorous and has the ability to capture prey on the prowl, projecting its sticky tongue. It also uses its tongue to smell and taste. It is adapted to eating plant leaves as a source of water during dry seasons. The most common prey is small insects, mainly flies, bees, wasps, beetles, moths, caterpillars, butterflies, snails, and grasshoppers. Larger individuals can hunt small vertebrates. Due to their cryptic nature, they are difficult to locate. They are very territorial, with no tolerance between the sexes until the mating season. In the Canary Islands there is an emerging breeding population located in the north of the island of Gran Canaria, introduced because of collectors` escapes.
Martín Carrasquero, G. & Rubio Maresma, A. & Buil Clancy, H. (2020) -
Martin Hernández, A. (2015) -
Environmental niche of smut lizard was analyzed at “Malpaís de Güímar”. Three sampling plots were selected attending to differences among environmental conditions. Two types of pit-fall traps were used to capture arthropods and lizards for a four month period. Capture-mark-recapture technique was used to estimate population sizes of the smut lizard. The highest population size was estimated at clay substrate, where vegetal fleshy fruit species reach higher vegetal coverage and where a higher abundance of arthropods is determined. The number of lizards captures is positively related to temperature variation and according to lizard captures related to stages it seems there are no relation with the type of bait and seasonal period. Finally, the log-normal structure of arthropods and vegetation assemblage was showed at the clay substrate sampling plot where was registered a low diversity value and where the highest lizard population size was estimated.
Martín-Lacave, I. & Montero, C. & López-Muñoz, J.M. & López-Campos, J.L. & Galera, H. (1982) -
An ultrastructural study of the mucous cells of the intestinal epithelium of four lacertilian species (Lacerta lepida, Lacerta hispanica, Psammodromus algirus and Acanthodactylus erythrurus) is here reported. Two types of mucous cells have been found in these species: common mucous cells and granular mucous cells. Immature and mature forms of both types have been observed. The common mucous cells or typical goblet cells have the same characteristics in all four species. The granules of the granular mucous cells of the two species of Lacerta are similar but differ from those of the other two species.
Martín-Pérez, V. & García-Verdugo, J.M. (1988) -
In reptiles the septal area is located in the medial wall of the telencephalon. It can be divided into 2 subregions: the precommissural septum and the postcommissural septum. The dorsal portion of the precommissural septum (PDS) received a massive projection from the medial cerebral cortex. It can be distinguished from the other portions of the pre- and postcommissural septum by its Timm-positivity and by its positivity to acetylcholinesterase histochemistry.
Martín-Pérez, V. & García-Verdugo, J.M. & Llahi Sastre, S. (1981) -
Martin-Vallejo, J. & Garcia-Fernández, J. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Vicente-Villardón, J.L. (1995) -
Martin, A. (1985) -
Martin, A. (2009) -
Martin, A. & Rando, J.C. (2006) -
Martin, B. & Xavier, F. (1981) -
Steroid-protein interactions were studied in the lizard, Lacerta vivipara J. The detection of specific steroid-binding plasma proteins was determined by equilibrium dialysis, Sephadex filtration, sucrose gradient centrifugation, and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Two high-affinity binding systems are described: a transcortin-type protein and an SBP-type protein. A high concentration of progesterone-binding sites was found (N = 1.1 ): 1O-5 M), whereas binding activity for corticosterone was weak. The estradiol-17@-binding affinity to the lizard SBP (I& = 2 x lo9 M-l) is similar to that found in man and amphibians. Testosterone binds to both the above specific binding systems.
Martin, F. (2011) -
Martin, J. (1996) -
1. The addition of mass to an animal may reduce its locomotory capabilities and thus increase the predation risk. The effects of recent feeding on locomotor and escape performance of juvenile Psammodromus algirus lizards were examined. The consequences of a full stomach on the movement rate and locomotor patterns of lizards when walking spontaneously, and on their escape response from a simulated predator, were specifically analysed to determine whether juvenile lizards were able to compensate through modifications of behaviour for the possible locomotory difficulties derived from a full stomach. 2. The results indicated that feeding did not significantly affect the rate of spontaneous movements. However, voluntary locomotor patterns were partially affected. Thus, after feeding, individuals moved to significantly slower burst speeds, and also decreased significantly the frequency of pauses. 3. The escape performance was also significantly affected by feeding. In an individual escape run, lizards decreased their initial speed, although their burst speed did not change, and escaped over longer periods, stopping at greater distances. The endurance of the escape response in a continuous predator attack also decreased significantly after feeding, and lizards ran on less occasions and for shorter periods before becoming exhausted and hiding. 4. The possible consequences of reduced locomotory abilities on fitness are discussed. It is proposed that, by changing their behaviour, juveniles may reduce these costs. This may allow them to consume large amounts of food at a time without incurring a higher predation risk.
Martín, J. (2001) -
Prey often respond to predators by increasing their use of refuges but relatively few studies have analyzed how prey decide when to resume their behavior after a predator’s unsuccessful attack. This is important because refuge use may have some costs that should be minimized such as the loss of time available for foraging or mate searching. In addition, unfavorable conditions in refuges (e.g., suboptimal temperatures) might entail physiological costs such as hypothermia. Under these circumstances, animals should optimize the decision of when to come out from a refuge by balancing the fitness effects of the diminution of predation risk with time against the costs of loss of time available for other activities and loss of time spent at optimal body temperature. I review several experiments with lizards that support that individuals decide to come out from a refuge when the costs of hiding exceed predation risk in the exterior, and that there is an optimal emergence time. Optimization of these antipredatory behavioral strategies might help lizards to cope with changes in predation risk without incurring excessive costs.
Martin, J. (2009) -
Martín, J. (2009) -
Martin, J. (2015) -
Martin, J. & Amo, L. & López, P. (2008) -
Multiple advertising sexual traits may either advertise different characteristics of male condition or be redundant to reinforce reliability of signals. Research has focused on multiple visual traits. However, in animals that use different multiple additional sensory systems, such as chemoreception, different types of traits might have evolved to signal similar characteristics of a male quality using different sensory channels. We examined whether ventral coloration and chemicals in femoral gland secretions of male common wall lizards, Podarcis muralis, are affected by their health state (blood-parasite load and cell-mediated immune response). Our results indicated that less parasitized lizards had brighter and more yellowish ventral colorations and also femoral secretions with higher proportions of two esters of octadecenoic acid. In addition, lizards with a greater immune response had more saturated coloration and secretions with higher proportions of octadecenoic acid methyl ester. We suggest that these signals would be reliable because only healthier males seemed able to allocate more carotenoids to coloration and presumably costly chemicals to secretions. The use of multiple sensory channels may provide more opportunities to signal a male quality under different circumstances, but also may reinforce the reliability of the signal when both types of traits may be perceived simultaneously.
Martin, J. & Avery, R.A. (1997) -
Martin, J. & Avery, R.A. (1998) -
. Many lizards use caudal autotomy as a defensive strategy. However, subsequent costs related to the alteration of locomotor abilities might decrease the fitness of individuals. In this paper, the movement patterns of spontaneously moving Psammodromus algirus lizards and their escape performance running at high speed were compared before and after tail loss. A control tailed group was also studied to assess the repeatability of locomotor patterns between trials. 2. Tail loss had a significant effect on spontaneous movement patterns. Tailless individuals moved at significantly slower speeds during bursts of locomotion, and distances moved within bursts were significantly reduced. The overall time spent pausing increased, and, as a result, overall speeds decreased to an even greater extent than burst speeds. However, mean durations of individual locomotor bursts and mean pause durations did not change significantly after tail loss. 3. Loss of the tail decreased mean stride length, although the positive relation between stride length and speed was retained. 4. Escape performance was also greatly affected; loss of the tail resulted in substantially reduced attained, maximal and overall escape speeds. These changes resulted in shorter escape distances (the time of the first pause after the initiation of the escape response) because the mean duration of escape responses did not change. 5. The relevance of these alterations for the ecology of this species, and how individuals may compensate for the costs of tail loss, favouring autotomy as an escape strategy, are discussed.
Martin, J. & Civantos, E. & Amo, L. & López, P. (2007) -
Evidence for parasite-mediated sexual selection has been found in many species that use visual ornaments to attract females. However, in many animals, variation in female responses to scents of parasitized males suggests that parasitic infections might also affect information conveyed by pheromones (i.e., chemical ornaments). Thus, pheromones might also function in parasite-mediated sexual selection. We show here that female lizards Psammodromus algirus responded differently to femoral gland secretions of males according to the parasite load and health of these males. Scents of healthier males elicited more tongue flicks (a chemosensory behavior) by females, suggesting that these scents were more attractive. Chemical analyses showed that parasite load and the T-cell-mediated immune response were related to the variability in the proportions of some lipids in secretions of males. Further trials testing the chemosensory responses of females to chemical standards indicated that females actually discriminated the chemicals related to males’ health from other chemicals found in secretions. We suggest that these chemical ornaments may provide reliable information on the health and degree of parasitic infection of a male.
Martin, J. & Forsman, A. (1999) -
In the lizard Psammodromus algirus, larger and older males show orange nuptial coloration on most of the head and are dominant over smaller and younger, albeit sexually mature, males which do not show such extensive nuptial coloration. This raises the question of why young, small males delay the development of nuptial coloration until a later breeding season. We tested the hypothesis of social costs by manipulating the color of the head of small males. The results of agonistic interactions suggested that small males may pay a cost in terms of being punished by large males. Small males with heads painted orange were still recognized as small by other small males, suggesting that they would not gain in social status relative to normal, dull, small males. We also manipulated the coloration of large males. Small males showed a similar response toward all large males, independent of coloration. This suggests that in short-distance communication, males used other cues, such as body size and behavior, when judging fighting ability. In staged experiments without male competition, female acceptance of matings was influenced by male body size but not by coloration because large males were more successful in obtaining matings than were small males, and within each age/size category there was no difference in mating success between experimental and control males.
Martin, J. & Lopez, P. (1995) -
We compared the escape behaviour of juvenile and adult Psammodromus algirus lizards, by using data of escape performance in the laboratory and field observations of escape behaviour. We specifically examined whether a differential escape response is a constraint of body size, or whether juveniles behave differently in order to maximize their escape possibilities taking into account their size-related speed limitations. In the laboratory, juvenile lizards were slower than adult lizards, and escaped during less time and to shorter distances, even when removing the effect of body size. In the field, juveniles allowed closer approaches and after a short flight usually did not hide immediately, but did so after successive short runs if the attack persists. Approach distance of juveniles was not affected by habitat, but initial and total flight distances were shorter in covered microhabitats. There was no significant effect of environmental temperature on approach and initial flight distances of juveniles. However, the total flight distances were significantly correlated with air temperatures.
We examined the escape responses of a population of lizards (Psammodromus algirus) in relation to reasonal variation in the habitat caused by the presence or absence of leaves in deciduous shrubs under which the lizards seek refuge against predators, and, within a season, relative to the microhabitat occupied. Approach and flight distances of lizards were significantly longer in early spring (when most bushes were without leaves) than in summer. Within a season, approach and flight distances were also longer in microhabitats with less vegetation cover. Lizards ran to refuges (patches of leaf litter under bushes) similar in characteristics but further than the nearest one available from their initial location. This suggests that misleading the predator is also crucial to escaping successfully. Escape responses were independent of ambient temperature. Lizards showed flexibility in their antipredator behaviours that may be related to predation risk assessment.
Martin, J. & Lopez, P. (1996) -
Martin, J. & Lopez, P. (1998) -
Martin, J. & Lopez, P. (1999) -
Males of many species show conspicuous breeding colours that are important for status signalling, but that may decrease crypsis and increase predation risk. However, prey may adjust their escape response, such that the optimal distance at which an animal starts to flee (approach distance) would be the point where the costs of staying exceed the cost of fleeing. We examined in the field the escape response of Psammodromus algirus lizards, to test the hypothesis that more conspicuous old males, showing orange nuptial coloration on most of the head, which presumably have a higher probability of being detected (i.e. increased costs of staying), have longer approach distances, independent of other environmental variables. As predicted, old brightly coloured males had significantly longer approach and flight distances than young dull males, and young males had longer ones than females. In contrast, neither the distance to the nearest refuge nor the air temperature when the lizards escaped were significantly different. In addition, although male and female lizards differed in their use of microhabitats, old and young males did not differ. We also found that old males guarding a female (i.e. increased costs of fleeing) had shorter approach distances than old males that were found alone.
Martín, J. & López, P. (1999) -
Prey often respond to predator presence by increasing their use of refuges. However, unfavorable thermal conditions in refuges might entail physiological costs for an ectothermic prey. Thus, the decision of when to come out from a refuge should be optimized by considering the expected fitness effects of diminution of predation risk with time, but also by considering the cost of the loss of time spent at optimal body temperature maximizing physiological functions. The model of Ydenberg and Dill describes the trade-off between risk and cost for a prey fleeing to a refuge. We present a special case of this model to predict how emergence time from the refuge in lizards or other ectotherms should vary as a function of risk of predation and thermal costs of refuge use. The analyses of the variation in emergence time from a refuge of Lacerta monticola lizards in the field under two different predation risk levels supported the predictions of the model. As predicted, time spent in the refuge was longer when the threat of the initial attack had been higher, and therefore the subsequent diminution of risk was slower, but only when lizards emerged at the same place where they hid. When initial body temperature was high, some lizards decreased emergence time by emerging from a different place. In addition, the effects of thermal costs were more relevant in the high-risk situation. Time spent in the refuge under high risk increased when thermal conditions of the refuge were more similar to thermal conditions outside (i.e., physiological costs of refuge use were lower). We conclude that optimization of refuge-use strategies might help lizards cope with changes in predation risk without incurring excessive physiological costs.
Martin, J. & López, P. (1999) -
Martin, J. & López, P. (2000) -
Not all individual lizards in a population are simultaneously active even when thermal conditions are suitable for activity. We examined inter-individual variability in activity levels of male Iberian rock lizards (Lacerta monticola) in a seminatural enclosure during the mating season, and analyzed whether social status affects their activity levels, time budgets, and body-mass changes. Activity levels of lizards varied significantly with time of day. However, activity levels of individual males were significantly correlated with their rank in the social hierarchy. When the males were active, their status did not influence the time spent basking, resting, or moving, but males with a higher status spent more time in social activities. Higher activity levels were costly, causing males to lose more body mass, although this could have been mainly due to the costs of maintaining a higher social status. We conclude that because attaining a higher status may require a male to be more active and more involved in agonistic encounters, subordinate individuals decrease their activity in order to decrease the costs of social behavior.
Theoretical models of anti-predator escape behaviour suggest that prey may adjust their escape response such that the optimal flight distance is the point at which the costs of staying exceed the costs of fleeing. Anti-predatory decisions should be made based also on consequences for long-term expected fitness, such as the costs of refuge use. For example, in lizards, the maintenance of an optimal body temperature is essential to maximize physiological processes. However, if unfavourable thermal conditions of refuges can decrease the body temperature of lizards, their escape decision should be influenced by refuge conditions. Analyses of the variation in flight distances and emergence latency from a refuge for the lizard Lacerta monticola under two different predation risk levels, and their relationship with the thermal environment, supported these predictions. When risk increased, lizards had longer emergence latencies, and thus costs of refuge use increased (a greater loss of time and body temperature). In the low-risk situation, lizards that were farther from the refuge had longer flight distances, whereas thermal conditions were less important. When risk increased, lizards had longer flight distances when refuges were farther off, but also when the external heating rate and the refuge cooling rate were lower. The results suggest that, in addition to the risk of predation, expected long-term fitness costs of refuges can also affect escape decisions.
Martin, J. & Lopez, P. (2000) -
Theoretical models of escape behavior suggest that the optimal distance at which an animal starts to flee (approach distance) increases with distance to the refuge. However, the extent of reliance on refuges may strongly affect this relationship. The lizard Psammodromus algirus escapes a predator by fleeing into leaf litter, which is very abundant but not a safe refuge because the predator could still locate and capture a concealed lizard. We test the hypothesis that escape decisions of this lizard species are based on the conspicuousness of individuals and the type of refuge used, rather than on the distance to cover per se. A field study showed that approach distance was not significantly correlated with distance to available refuges or distance actually fled. However, the type of microhabitat and the type of refuge used influenced the approach distance. Lizards started to flee earlier in microhabitats where they were presumably more visible to potential predators. Lizards ran to refuges that were similar in quality to, but farther from, the nearest available one. A longer flight may be needed to mislead the predator. However, because fleeing may be costly, the flight distance should be optimized. Thus, lizards ran farther and faster when they fled through unsafe microhabitats. Lizards with a low body temperature have lower escape performance and their approach distances should be greater. However, although air temperature affected escape speed, it was not significantly correlated with approach distance or flight distance. The relatively low reliance on refuges by P. algirus indicated that the expected relationship between escape decision and distance to the refuge did not exist. However, the results indicate that P. algirus optimizes its escape decisions according to the costs of fleeing and the costs of remaining.
Martin, J. & López, P. (2001) -
Prey often respond to predator presence by increasing their use of refuges. However, because the use of refuges may entail several costs, the decision of when to come out from a refuge should be optimized. In some circumstances, if predators remain waiting outside the refuge and try new attacks or if predator density increases, the prey may suffer successive repeated attacks in a short time. Successive attacks may represent an increase in the risk of predation, but the costs of refuge use also may increase with time spent in the refuge. Thus, prey should make multiple related decisions on when to emerge from the refuge after each new attack. We simulated in the field repeated predatory attacks to the same individuals of the lizard Lacerta monticola and specifically examined the variation in successive times to emergence from a refuge under different thermal conditions (i.e., different costs of refuge use). The results showed that risk of predation but also thermal costs of refuge use affected the emergence decisions. Lizards increased progressively the duration of time spent in the refuge between successive emergence times when the costs of refuge use were lower, but tended to maintain or to decrease the duration of time spent in the refuge between successive emergence times when cost of refuge use increased. Additionally, lizards that entered the refuge with higher body temperatures had overall emergence times of longer duration. Optimization of refuge use and flexibility in the antipredator responses might help lizards to cope with increased predation risk without incurring excessive costs of refuge use.
Sex recognition is based on colour signals in many species of lizards. However, olfactory stimuli are also clearly involved, and many species might rely more on chemoreception. We aimed to examine whether colour pattern or odours, or both, are used in sex recognition and which cues elicit courtship of females by males of the lizard Podarcis hispanica. We experimentally manipulated the coloration and odour of female P. hispanica, thereby creating groups with all combinations between coloration and odour of males and females. Using data from staged encounters, we compared the responses of resident males to manipulated and unmanipulated individuals (males and females). Responding males reacted signi®cantly more aggressively to female intruders with male odours, independently of their coloration. Nevertheless, coloration seemed to be important in long-distance sex recognition since, in the ®rst minutes, females painted as females received a lower number of aggressive responses. Both colour and odour were important in eliciting male courtship. However, females painted as females and with female odours were preferentially courted. Comparisons with unmanipulated male and female intruders agreed with these expectations. Therefore, at close range, odoriferous cues seem to be more important than colour patterns in sex recognition, but female coloration is also useful at long range to deter the aggressive response of males and to elicit courtship in conjunction with odours.
Martin, J. & Lopez, P. (2001) -
Locomotor performance of lizards and its relationship to the ecology and morphology of the forms concerned has been well studied recently. Asymmetry of limbs might make the body unstable and make performance less effective. However, their effects on terrestrial locomotion remain almost unexplored. In this article, the escape performance of the lizard Psammodromus algirus running at high speed was related to hindlimb morphology and fluctuating asymmetry levels. Femur length was significantly shorter than crus length. However, absolute fluctuating asymmetry in femur length was significantly larger than in crus length. Asymmetry was not related to body or limb size, thus larger individuals or those with longer limbs did not have significantly greater fluctuating asymmetry. Neither body size nor the length of the limbs (femur or crus) were significantly related to any of the variables describing escape performance. However, escape performance was affected by femur-length fluctuating asymmetry, which resulted in significantly reduced overall escape speeds. In contrast, asymmetry in crus length did not affect escape performance. We discuss the possible basis of these alterations of locomotion, the relevance of reduced performance for the ecology of this species, and how individuals may compensate for the costs of asymmetry.
Males of many species show conspicuous breeding colours that are important in social contexts, whereas other species are dull coloured. Bright coloration may be selected against if it renders males more conspicuous and results in a higher susceptibility to predators. We tested this hypothesis experimentally by manipulating in the field the coloration of the heads of live common wall lizards, Podarcis muralis. Probably because of the small sample size, we did not detect a significant difference in the survivorship of control individuals (painted brown to resemble their natural dull coloration) and that of experimental individuals (painted orange to resemble nuptial coloration of related species). However, within the individuals that survived, experimental lizards suffered a significantly greater loss of relative body mass than controls. We conclude that, even if bright coloration does not increase mortality directly, it may result in increased predation risk, which would force lizards to use anti-predatory behaviours, with their increased associated costs.
Many prey signal to predators with the intention of deterring further pursuits. In the lizard Psammodromus algirus, individuals sometimes escape with noisy long runs on dry leaves, whereas on many other occasions they escape quietly and with short flights. We hypothesised that the duration of this noisy display might be considered as an auditory signal of their alertness and ability to escape directed to predators. We examined in the field the escape behaviour of the lizard P. algirus in response to a human observer acting as a predator and tested a series of predictions to analyse this hypothesis. During a noisy escape response, lizards escaped sooner and ran further and for a longer time, while passing potential refuges before hiding. Production of noise was not entirely dependent on environmental factors, such as temperature or microhabitat, and was not directed to warn conspecifics because most individuals were solitary. Lizards still made noise when concealed and in response to successive approaches, which might be interpreted as a signal of alertness to the predator approach. In addition, condition of individuals with noisy responses could be assessed from their ability to run further and for a longer time, and because, in contrast to quiet responses, speed and distance were not positively correlated with environmental temperature. Thus, they might be in a better condition or internal state because they were able to run at high speed under unfavourable conditions. We suggest that lizards with noisy escape responses might be honestly signalling their alertness and ability to escape to avoid being chased.
Martin, J. & López, P. (2002) -
Management of dehesas (i.e. oak woodland pastures) creates a patchwork of sectors that differ in their structure and composition of understorey vegetation. We analysed whether different management techniques affect the populations of several species of lizards (Podarcis hispanica, Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus hispanicus, Acanthodactylus erythrurus, and Lacerta lepida). Multivariate analyses showed that lizards preferentially used forested areas with scrub while they avoided open herbaceous areas. The abundance of lizards increased when the understorey bushy vegetation increased. In contrast, grasslands or cereal fields were scarcely occupied even if holm oak trees (Quercus ilex) were present, apparently because low shrubs were scarce here. Therefore, some of the traditional management practices of dehesas may negatively affect lizard populations. These conclusions could have wider implications for the design of wildlife reserves within dehesas, which has been previously based on the umbrella species concept (e.g. some dehesas are managed for imperial eagle Aquila adalberti conservation), without considering habitat requirements of other representative animal groups.
Martin, J. & Lopez, P. (2003) -
We hypothesized that, through persistent predatory attacks, lizards should increase progressively the magnitude of their escape response. We simulated in the field a continuous attack by a persistent predator on Acanthodactylus erythrurus lizards and examined the characteristics of successive escape responses, microhabitats used for fleeing, and the refuges used. Lizards responded to the persistent attacks by increasing the distances they fled and the degree of cover in microhabitats into which they escaped. Lizards also changed their escape strategy from the first to the successive attacks. Initially, most individuals did not hide but stopped after running and remained vigilant, whereas almost all individuals hid subsequently. In addition, after successive predatory attacks, lizards used more structurally complex refuges (i.e., larger and with more obstructive cover). These refuges were probably safer although they may lower the lizard`s capacity to observe the predator`s subsequent behavior. These data suggest that lizards interpret persistent predatory attacks as an increase in predation risk and that lizards adjusted the magnitude of their escape and antipredatory responses to predation risk level.
Martin, J. & López, P. (2003) -
In lizards, ontogenetic changes in body size affect thermal-exchange rates. This simple physical property may have consequences for thermoregulation, and also for antipredator behavior. We examined how ontogenetic changes in body mass affect rates of heating and cooling of the lizard Lacerta monticola, confirming the general result obtained for other lizards. We further analyzed the differences between juveniles and adults in approach distances to a simulated predator and in time to emerge from refuges. Juvenile lizards have a lower absolute running speed, making them more vulnerable to predation. However, in contrast to results expected from optimal-escape theory, approach distances were shorter for juveniles than for adults. Juveniles may be confident in their small size and only flee when the probability of being detected is high. On the other hand, differences in thermal properties might affect costs of refuge use. Thus, juveniles might delay fleeing because their costs of hiding are higher, as they cool faster than adults. Differences in thermal costs may also explain the juveniles` shorter times of emergence from refuges. Because of the behavioral adjustments involved in antipredator behavior, the physiological costs of reaching a low body temperature in refuges probably do not differ between age classes.
Prey often respond to predator presence by increasing their use of refuges, but because this strategy may be costly, the decision regarding when to come out from a refuge should be optimized. The loss of foraging opportunities may be one of the main costs when safer microhabitats (i.e. refuges) are also the poorest in terms of their foraging profitability. We present the results of an experimental field study to test whether emergence times from a refuge of the Iberian rock lizard, Lacerta monticola, vary as a function of expected foraging opportunities and level of satiation of the lizard. As predicted, short-term fluctuations in availability of food influenced emergence times; when a lizard had just detected some food in the recent past, emergence times decreased greatly, because the loss of opportunities for foraging increased costs of refuge use. Furthermore, the characteristics and success of the encounter with food, nutritional state of lizards, and the added possibility of capturing new food items influenced the duration of hiding times. Therefore, foraging requirements and avoidance of predators may be conflicting demands that L. monticola lizards balance by modifying the duration of time spent in refuges.
Martin, J. & López, P. (2005) -
Martin, J. & López, P. (2006) -
In spite of the importance of chemoreception in social organization of lizards, only a few studies have examined chemical composition of secretions of lizards. The secretion of the femoral glands of male lizards Psammodromus algirus contains 59 lipophilic compounds, mainly carboxylic acids between n-C9 and n-C20, and steroids (mainly campesterol, ergosterol and cholesterol), and minor components such as five alcohols, six aldehydes, squalene, α-tocopherol, ketones, and a furanone. These compounds were identified on the basis of mass spectra, obtained by GC–MS. Secretions of adult males of different age were different. Older lizards had secretions with relatively lower proportions of octadecadienoic, oleic and eicosatetraenoic acids, and higher proportions of campesterol, ergosterol, ergostenol, 4,4-dimethy-cholest-7-en-3-ol, and ergosta-5,22-dien-3-ol. These differences might allow conspecifics to get information on the age of the sender based on chemicals alone, which may have an important role in social behavior of this lizard.
Molecular studies suggest that the Iberian wall lizard, Podarcis hispanica, forms a species complex with several monophyletic types. In Central Spain two of these types are spatially not isolated and may interact. Sex pheromones are important for species recognition and, thus, differences between lizards’ types in chemicals used in intraspecific communication could lead to reproductive isolation. Analyses by GC-MS showed that the femoral gland secretions of adult males of different types were different. Males of one type had twelve exclusive compounds, and proportions of some shared compounds differed. This presumably would reflect selection for the persistency and efficiency of chemical signals in different environments; less volatile compounds and with a higher chemical stability being favoured in the type of lizards inhabiting more humid climatic conditions. Differential tongue-flick rates to scents from femoral secretions indicated that males were able to detect and discriminate between males of different types based on chemical cues alone. In contrast, females detected but did not seem able to discriminate between scents of the two types of males. Thus, multiple factors might be simultaneously acting either against or in favor of speciation, leading, on the one hand, to genetic differences between types, but, on the other hand, probably precluding an effective reproductive isolation in areas where both types of lizards may interact.
1 In spite of the fact that chemoreception plays an important part in sexual selection of many vertebrates, there is a lack of general knowledge on the role of specific chemical compounds as sexual signals, and on how the characteristics of chemical signals mediate behaviours such as mate choice. 2 We examined how female Iberian Rock Lizards use the chemical characteristics of femoral gland secretions of males to select potential mates. 3 Tongue-flick assays and choice of scent trials showed that females discriminated by chemosensory cues alone differences in chemical secretions of different males. Females showed stronger chemosensory responses and preferred the scent of males of presumably high quality (i.e. those more symmetric and with a greater immune response). 4 Chemical analyses by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry showed that these preferred males allocated relatively more cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol and ergosterol to femoral secretions, which suggested that females used these chemicals to choose between males’ scents. 5 Further experiments confirmed that females were able to discriminate cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol, ergosterol, and changes in their concentrations, from similar steroids (i.e. cholesterol) also found in secretions of males. Moreover, females were more attracted to areas that were experimentally manipulated to increase the proportion of ergosterol in natural scent marks of males. 6 We suggest that femoral secretions with higher proportions of cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol and ergosterol might be reliable advertisements of quality of a male, which females could use to select mates.
Evolutionary theory proposes that signals used in sexual selection can only be stable if they are honest and condition dependent. However, despite the fact that chemical signals are used by many animals, empirical research has mainly focused on visual and acoustic signals. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for lizards, but in some lizards its precursor (cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol=provitamin D) is found in femoral gland secretions, which males use for scent marking and intraspecific communication. By allocating provitamin D to secretions, males might need to divert vitamin D from metabolism. This might be costly and condition dependent. We tested whether diet quality affected chemical signals of male Iberian rock lizards (Lacerta monticola) and its consequences for sexual selection. After experimental supplementation of dietary vitamin D, males increased the proportion of provitamin D in femoral secretions. Further experiments showed that females detected these changes in males` signals by chemosensory cues, and discriminated provitamin D, and changes in its concentration, from similar steroids (i.e. cholesterol) found in secretions. Moreover, females preferred areas scent marked by males with more provitamin D in their secretions. This mechanism would confer honesty to chemical signals of male lizards, and, thus, females may rely on it to select high-quality males. We suggest that the allocation of vitamins and other essential nutrients to either visual (e.g. carotenoids) or chemical ornaments might be the common basis of honest sexual displays in many animals.
Question: Do chemical recognition mechanisms and sexual selection processes contribute to reproductive isolation between closely related taxa? Organism: The lacertid Iberian wall lizard (Podarcis hispanica). Background: Recent molecular studies have suggested that this lizard forms a species complex with ongoing speciation processes. Two of the monophyletic types of this lizard are mainly allopatric. However, they live close together in the Guadarrama Mountains (Central Spain) and are not geographically isolated. Methods: We measured tongue-flick rates to chemical stimuli from males and females, and staged intra-sexual agonistic encounters and inter-sexual courtships between lizards of both types. Conclusions: Males discriminated between males of different types based on chemical cues alone, and there were differences in the aggressiveness and outcome of agonistic encounters depending on the types of interacting males. However, males did not discriminate chemically between female types, and females did not discriminate between male types. Inter-sexual courtships suggested that matings may occur between lizards of the two types. Therefore, in spite of differences between male types, behaviourally mediated reproductive isolation may not be entirely effective at this moment.
In many lizards, secretions of males are used in social behaviors, but it is almost unknown which specific chemicals are relevant in mediating these behaviors. Moreover, only a few studies have examined whether lizards can actually discriminate between different chemical compounds. We tested for differential chemosensory responses of female Iberian Wall Lizards, Podarcis hispanica, to two lipids (cholesterol and cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol) found in femoral secretion of males, and which previous behavioral studies suggested may be relevant in female mate choice. The higher tongue-flick (TF) rates directed at cotton swabs containing these two lipids indicated that females detected and discriminated these chemicals from a control. There were no significant differences between responses to cholesterol and to the whole natural femoral secretion from males, probably because cholesterol is the major predominant component in secretions of males. The higher TF rates to cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol than to cholesterol indicated that females discriminated these two steroids. Moreover, females seemed able to assess changes in concentration of cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol and responded more strongly to higher concentrations. These results, together with the previous finding of female preference for areas scent marked by males with higher proportions of this steroid in their secretions, might support that cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol was a `key` chemical that might be used by females to choose potential mates.
Martin, J. & López, P. (2007) -
Intrasexual competition favours the evolution of conspicuous fighting ability badges. However, in spite of the fact that chemoreception is important in sexual selection of many animals, such as lizards, the role of chemical signals in males` contests is relatively unknown. Here, we show that proportions of cholesterol in femoral gland secretions of male Iberian rock lizards were related to their body size (which confers a competitive advantage in fights). Males discriminated chemically and responded aggressively to cholesterol stimuli presented on swabs. Moreover, we experimentally increased cholesterol in the scent of males, and staged encounters in neutral cages between two unfamiliar and size-matched males. Focal males lost more agonisitic interactions against males manipulated with cholesterol than in control tests. We suggest that differences in scent composition may reliably signal fighting ability in many lizard species, which would help to avoid the costs of fighting.
Martin, J. & López, P. (2008) -
Some mate choice theories propose that only male signals that are honest and condition-dependent can be stable, while another hypothesis states that males evolve signals that exploit the sensory system of females. However, sensory traps might evolve into honest signals if they are differentially costly for males. We tested whether a pre-existing sensory bias for food chemicals explained chemosensory preferences of female Iberian rock lizards for male scents. We manipulated hunger levels of females and found that food-deprived females had increased chemosensory responses to chemical stimuli from both invertebrate prey and femoral secretions of males, but not to control water. Further tests suggested that cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol (provitamin D3), a lipid found in both prey and males’ scent, may be one of the chemicals eliciting these responses. Moreover, hungry females spent more time on scent marks of males that had experimentally increased cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol than on scent marks of males alone, whereas for control females this effect was not significant. We suggest that preexisting sensory bias for essential nutrients (i.e., provitamin D) may be the origin of similar female responses to male chemicals. However, previous studies have suggested that the allocation of these chemicals to ornaments is costly and only high quality males can afford it. Therefore, preexisting sensory bias for essential nutrients may further allow the evolution and maintenance of honest sexual display.
Martín, J. & López, P. (2009) -
Multiple traits may either signal different characteristics of a male or be redundant. These multiple signals may convey different messages if they are intended for different receivers (e.g., male or females) that have different interests. We examined the functions of multiple colorful visual traits of male Schreiber’s green lizard (Lacerta schreiberi). Results showed that interindividual variation in the characteristics of coloration of males can be related to variation in morphology, health state, dominance status, and pairing status, but that different relationships were found for each color signal. For example, dominant males had brighter “blue” throat and with higher values of ultraviolet (UV) and bluish coloration and darker and greenish dorsal coloration than subordinate males. Health state was also reflected in coloration; males with a higher immune response had “blue” throats with lower amounts of UV coloration, but had “yellow” chests with higher amounts of UV coloration. Males found guarding females also differed in coloration from males found alone. These data suggest that characteristics of coloration of the different multiple signals may reveal different messages for different receivers, either male or female conspecifics. The development of the different signals, based on different morphological and physiological mechanisms and trade-offs, may allow signal reliability of multiple colorful traits in different social contexts.
Martin, J. & López, P. (2010) -
Martín, J. & López, P. (2010) -
The mechanisms that confer honesty to multiple sexual signals of vertebrates remain less known. We suggest that vitamin E in the scent (femoral secretions) and carotenoids in coloration of Lacerta lepida lizards might advertise quality because they are relevant in metabolism as major antioxidants and have a dietary origin. Results showed that there may be similar trade-offs between immunity and both chemical and visual signaling, as males with more vitamin E in secretions and those with more greenish, darker, and saturated carotenoid-dependent colorations had a higher immune response. This suggests that only high-quality males can divert from metabolism and allocate enough vitamin E to secretions and enough carotenoids to coloration. Therefore, information provided by visual and chemical signals is congruent. The use of multiple sensory channels may allow signaling a male quality under different circumstances or reinforce the reliability of the signal when both signals are perceived simultaneously. However, we also found that characteristics of carotenoid-dependent coloration mirror the amounts of vitamin E in secretions. This might support that carotenoids, which are not true antioxidants in the organism, would just reflect and “inform” on the actual contents of metabolic antioxidant vitamin E, which is part of the true system that prevent oxidation. We suggest that the metabolic roles of vitamins might be the actual basis of honesty of many sexual displays, and that carotenoid-based signals might be just the visible part of the whole system.
Pheromones of vertebrates are often a mixture of several chemicals with different properties and messages, and their production seems condition dependent. Thus, pheromones are a good, but little studied, example of multiple sexual signals. Femoral gland secretions of male rock lizards Iberolacerta cyreni contain steroids that may act as pheromones, but there are also many other lipids, such as oleic acid, whose allocation to secretions may be costly because it has to be diverted from body fat reserves. This suggests that oleic acid could also have some function in secretions. Chemical analyses showed that proportions of oleic acid in femoral secretions of males were positively related to body condition of males, suggesting that the oleic acid secreted may reflect the amount of body fat reserves of a male. Tongue-flick bioassays showed that females were able to detect by chemosensory cues alone differences in proportions of oleic acid in secretions of males. Scents of males with more oleic acid elicited stronger chemosensory responses by females. Further tests with chemical standards confirmed that females distinguished oleic acid, and changes in its concentration, from other chemicals that are naturally found in secretions of males. Moreover, choice trials of scent-marked substrates showed that females were more attracted to areas that were experimentally manipulated to increase the proportion of oleic acid in natural scent marks of males. We suggest that oleic acid in femoral secretions might be a reliable advertisement of a male`s body condition, which females could use to select high-quality mates in conjunction with information provided by other chemicals. Alternatively, scent marks with more oleic acid might be simply more attractive to females if chemosensory responses of females to scent of males were originated by a preexisting sensory bias for food chemicals such as the oleic acid. Nevertheless, this sensory trap might have evolved into an honest signal because the elaboration of the signal seems differentially costly for males with different body conditions.
Prey should balance cost and benefits when deciding optimal refuge use. In ectotherms, such as lizards, body temperature can decrease in cold refuges, which has negative effects on physiological and locomotor performance. Thus, refuge use of ectotherms should be influenced by the thermal environment as well as by the body size-dependent thermal inertia of each individual. We simulated predator attacks to Schreiber`s Green lizards (Lacerta schreiberi) and analyzed their refuge use. Results indicated that temperatures outside and inside a refuge had opposite effects on refuge use decisions. Thus, when initial external temperatures were higher and lizards had higher thermal inertia, lizards could spend longer times inside refuges before reaching a `critical` low body temperature. However, when refuge temperature was low lizards did not decrease refuge use. If low refuge temperatures increased risk upon emerging because lizards had lower escape performance, lizards would need to compensate by remaining in a refuge for longer to scan the surroundings before emerging to ensure that the risk of a new attack decreased. Therefore, when deciding refuge use, L. schreiberi lizards seem to consider physiological costs of being at low temperatures and also the risk of emerging with low escape performance.
Martin, J. & López, P. (2012) -
Background: Many animals produce elaborated sexual signals to attract mates, among them are common chemical sexual signals (pheromones) with an attracting function. Lizards produce chemical secretions for scent marking that may have a role in sexual selection. In the laboratory, female rock lizards (Iberolacerta cyreni) prefer the scent of males with more ergosterol in their femoral secretions. However, it is not known whether the scent-marks of male rock lizards may actually attract females to male territories in the field. Methodology/Principal Findings: In the field, we added ergosterol to rocks inside the territories of male lizards, and found that this manipulation resulted in increased relative densities of females in these territories. Furthermore, a higher number of females were observed associated to males in manipulated plots, which probably increased mating opportunities for males in these areas. Conclusions/Significance: These and previous laboratory results suggest that female rock lizards may select to settle in home ranges based on the characteristics of scent-marks from conspecific males. Therefore, male rock lizards might attract more females and obtain more matings by increasing the proportion of ergosterol when scent-marking their territories. However, previous studies suggest that the allocation of ergosterol to secretions may be costly and only high quality males could afford it, thus, allowing the evolution of scent-marks as an honest sexual display.
Martín, J. & López, P. (2013) -
Scent-marked substrates may inform conspecifics on the characteristics of territorial males. Scent-marks of male Carpetan rock lizards (Iberolacerta cyreni) affect space use of females, which by selecting an area may increase the probability of mating with the male that has scent-marked that area. However, males do not hold exclusive territories, and scent-marks of different individual males are often together. This may provide complex information from multiple sources on the social structure. Here, we examined female preference in response to scent marks of various males and combinations in a laboratory experiment. Females preferred areas scent-marked by territorial old males against those scent-marked by young satellite-sneaker males. This reflected the known preference of females for mating with old males. In a second experiment, females preferred areas scent-marked by two males to areas of similar size marked by a single male. This may increase the probability of obtaining multiple copulations with different males, which may favour sperm competition and cryptic female choice, or may be a way to avoid infertile males. Finally, when we experimentally over-marked the scent-marks of an old male with scent-marks of a young male, females did not avoid, nor prefer, the over-marked area, suggesting that the quality of the old male may override the presence of a satellite male. We suggest that, irrespective of the causes underlying why a female selects a scent-marked area, this strategy may affect her reproductive success, which may have the same evolutionary consequences that “direct” mate choice decisions of other animals.
Martín, J. & López, P. (2014) -
Many lizards have diverse glands that produce chemosignals used in intraspecific communication and that can have reproductive consequences. For example, information in chemosignals of male lizards can be used in intrasexual competition to identify and assess the fighting potential or dominance status of rival males either indirectly through territorial scent-marks or during agonistic encounters. Moreover, females of several lizard species “prefer” to establish or spend more time on areas scent-marked by males with compounds signaling a better health or body condition or a higher genetic compatibility,which can have consequences for theirmating success and inter-sexual selection processes. We review here recent studies that suggest that the information content of chemosignals of lizards may be reliable because several physiological and endocrine processes would regulate the proportions of chemical compounds available for gland secretions. Because chemosignals are produced by the organismor come fromthe diet, they should reflect physiological changes, such as different hormonal levels (e.g. testosterone or corticosterone) or different health states (e.g. parasitic infections, immune response), and reflect the quality of the diet of an individual. More importantly, some compounds thatmay function as chemosignals also have other important functions in the organism (e.g. as antioxidants or regulating the immune system), so there could be trade-offs between allocating these compounds to attending physiological needs or to produce costly sexual “chemical ornaments”. All these factors may contribute to maintain chemosignals as condition-dependent sexual signals, which can inform conspecifics on the characteristics and state of the sender and allow making behavioral decisions with reproductive consequences. To understand the evolution of chemical secretions of lizards as sexual signals and their relevance in reproduction, future studies should examine what information the signals are carrying, the physiological processes that can maintain the reliability of the message and how diverse behavioral responses to chemosignals may influence reproductive success.
Martin, J. & López, P. (2014) -
Martín, J. & López, P. & Cooper, W.E. (2003) -
Because time spent in refuge may be costly if prey lose opportunities to forage, fight, or mate, prey allow predators to approach closer before beginning to flee when opportunity costs are high. Because the same opportunity costs may apply to refuge use as to escape, prey should make similar trade-offs between risk of emerging and cost of remaining in refuge. In the Iberian rock lizard, Lacerta monticola, we studied the effects of sex, reproductive season, speed of predator approach, and potential loss of mating opportunities on time spent in refuge following simulated predatory attacks. Lizards of both sexes adjusted refuge use to the level of risk by spending more time in refuge when approached rapidly than slowly. Females remained in refuge for equal times in the mating and postreproductive seasons, but males emerged sooner during the mating season, suggesting adjustment to a cost of lost opportunity to search for mates during the mating season. When a tethered female was nearby, males emerged from refuge earlier than if no female was present, indicating a trade-off between risk and mating opportunity. Approach speed affected emergence time when females were absent, but not when a female was present. Approach speed did not affect the probability that, after emerging, a male would return to court the female. For males that courted females intensely (bit them) before entering refuge, approach speed did not affect latency to emerge, but males that courted less intensely emerged sooner if approached slowly than rapidly. These findings show that males adjust the length of time spent in refuge to both risk of predation and reproductive cost of refuge use.
Martin, J. & López, P. & Bonati, B. & Csermely, D. (2010) -
Lateralization is the function specialization between left and right brain hemispheres. It is now ascertained in ectotherms too, where bias in eye use for different tasks, i.e., visual lateralization, is widespread. The lateral eye position on the head of ectotherm animals, in fact, allows them to observe left/right stimuli independently and allows lateralized individuals to carry out left and right perceived tasks at the same time. A recent study conducted on common wall lizards, Podarcis muralis, showed that lizards predominantly monitor a predator with the left eye while escaping. However, this work was conducted in a controlled laboratory setting owing to the difficulty of carrying out lateralization experiments under natural conditions. Nevertheless, field studies could provide important information to support what was previously found in the laboratory and demonstrate that these traits occur in nature. In this study, we conducted a field study on the antipredatory behavior of P. muralis lizards. We simulated predatory attacks on lizards in their natural environment. We found no lateralization in the measure of eye used by the lizard to monitor the predator before escaping from it, but the eye used was probably determined by the relative position of the lizard and the predator just before the attack. This first eye used did not affect escape decisions; lizards chose to escape toward the nearest refuge irrespective of whether it was located to the lizard’s left or right side. However, once they had escaped to a refuge, lizards had a left eye–mediated bias to monitor the predator when first emerging from the refuge, and this bias was likely independent of other environmental variables. Hence, these field findings support a left eye–mediated observation of the predator in P. muralis lizards, which confirms previous findings in this and other species.
Martin, J. & Lopez, P. & Carrascal, L.M. & Salvador, A. (1995) -
We studied the relationships between thermoregulatory basking postures and heating rates in the Iberian rock lizard (Lacerta monticola). Heating rates were high when body size was small, the substrate temperature was high, and the angle of incidence of the sun`s rays was high (i.e., the rays were perpendicular to the lizard`s body). However, heating rates were not related to the compass orientation of lizard`s body axis to the sun (perpendicular versus in line with the sun). In the field, the slopes of the body axis of basking individuals were higher during the early morning. However, neither the cardinal orientation of a lizard`s body axis to the sun nor the frequency of flattening varied during the morning. Postural adjustments to select an adequate angle of incidence of the sun`s rays on the dorsal part of the body suggest that this behaviour might enhance absorption of solar radiation.
Martin, J. & López, P. & Gabirot, M. & Pilz, K.M. (2007) -
In some lizards, female mate choice is influenced by chemicals secreted by males, e.g., via the femoral glands. Secretions of the femoral glands are under direct androgenic control and vary seasonally with androgen production. However, whether increased testosterone (T) levels affect the concentration and chemical composition of secretions or their attractiveness to females is unknown. We manipulated T levels of male Iberian wall lizards, Podarcis hispanica, with silastic implants. Differential tongue-flick rates indicated that females detected and discriminated between femoral secretions of control and T-implanted males based on chemical cues alone. Females showed greater responses to secretions of T-males, which might suggest that T increased the concentration of chemical signals. Further analyses by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry indicated that T supplementation induced qualitative changes in lipid composition of femoral secretions. T-males had decreased relative proportions of cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol in secretions, which might be related to the negative effects of T on the immune system and on lipid metabolism. However, experiments of choice of males’ scent showed that females neither preferred nor avoided the scent marks of T-males but preferred males that maintained higher proportions of cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol in secretions, independently of the experimental manipulation. Thus, because this steroid is negatively affected by T, there might be trade-offs among increasing T levels to increase the production of chemical secretions, maintain metabolism, and attract females.
Martin, J. & López, P. & Garrido, M. & Pérez-Cembanos, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2013) -
Many lizards use femoral gland secretions in intraspecific communication. Although there is a consistent interspecific variation in chemical composition of secretions, considerable variation is also often found between populations, which may affect conspecifc recognition and lead to speciation processes. Balearic lizards (Podarcis lilfordi) are currently distributed only in several isolated islets offshore of the main islands with different environmental conditions (vegetation, diet, density of population, etc). Also, there is a high genetic variability between populations. We examined whether there was a similar variation in the composition of the femoral secretions of male lizards, and which could be the causes of such variation. By using GC–MS analyses, we found 75 lipophilic compounds in femoral gland secretions of male P. lilfordi from three representative island populations. Main compounds were steroids (94.4%), mainly cholesterol, but we also found alkanes, ketones, waxy esters, squalene, carboxylic acids and their ethyl esters, alcohols and other minor compounds. However, there were clear differences between populations with respect to the number and relative proportions of compounds. Using the patterns of presence and abundance of compounds in secretions it is possible to predict the population of origin of a lizard. We discuss how these differences could be explained considering genetic and environmental differences between populations.
Martin, J. & López, P. & Iraeta, P. & Diaz, J.A. & Salvador, A. (2016) -
Interpopulational variation in sexual signals may lead to premating reproductive isolation and eventually may result in speciation. We explored the role of chemical cues secreted by the femoral glands of male lizards Psammdoromus algirus in chemosensory recognition between two distinct genetic lineages from Central Spain. We hypothesized that if there were differences in chemical sexual signals between lineages, these may result in differential recognition and mate preferences. This might lead to reproductive isolation, which would allow the observed morphological and genetic differences between lineages. Our results showed that males of each lineage secreted a singular mixture of compounds in their femoral secretions. However, females were apparently not able to discriminate the lineage of males by chemosensory cues or, alternatively, this discrimination may not be important for females. Moreover, females did not select or reject areas scent marked by males of their own vs. the other lineage. However, previous studies suggest that females might prefer scent of males with particular chemical characteristics that show interindividual variability but do not vary between lineages. Similarly, males did not discriminate between the scents of females of the two lineages, although they had greater chemosensory responses to scents of larger females. In contrast, males clearly discriminated the lineage of other males based on their scents alone, showing chemosensory and aggressive responses that were higher to scents of males of the other lineage. If males of the opposite lineage were more prone to be detected and excluded from a male territory due to their differences in chemical signals, this may probably impede the access of males of one lineage to females of the opposite lineage. This might result in reproductive isolation between lineages. We suggest that the current genetic divergence observed between lineages of P. algirus lizards may be mediated by intrasexual relationships among males, but not by female mate preferences. Significance statement Sexual signals often vary geographically to maximize their efficiency in communication under local conditions. Such variation may, however, affect recognition between individuals of different populations, resulting in reproductive isolation and speciation. We studied two populations (lineages) of a lizard with genetic and morphological differences. We found clear inter-lineage variation in chemical profiles of sexual signals of males. However, females did not recognize these differences by chemosensory cues and did not prefer or reject areas scent-marked by males of the two lineages. In contrast, males recognized and responded more aggressively toward scent of males of the opposite lineage. This might impede access of males of one lineage to females of the other. We suggest that the observed differences between lineages may result from partial reproductive isolation, which can be mediated by agonistic interactions between males rather than by female mate preferences.
Martin, J. & López, P. & Polo, V. (2009) -
Prey experience a broad range of temporal patterns of predation risk and may face different problems when assessing risk level and deciding how to allocate costly antipredator behaviour across time. We simulated in the laboratory repeated predatory attacks of different intensity (low versus high risk) to Iberian rock lizards, Iberolacerta cyreni, with similar numbers of low- and high-risk attacks across a trial, but with different temporal patterns of presentation (i.e. a series of low-risk and then a series of high risk, or vice versa, or successive attacks where risk changed randomly). We measured activity levels, time hidden in refuges after each predatory attack, and propensity to hide in refuges when the predator is close but not actually attacking (‘false alarm’ flights). Antipredator responses were of higher intensity when risk was high, but responses also depended on temporal patterns of risk. When previous attacks were of low-risk or when risk was random, prey activity did not change between risk levels. False alarm flights in the low-risk situation were more frequent when risk was random or immediately after a series of high-risk attacks. When successive attacks were of similar risk level, lizards seemed able to predict risk level in the next attack and modified their antipredator behaviour accurately. However, when risk level was random, lizards did not seem able to predict risk level and adopted a conservative strategy, overestimating risk even though costs of the antipredator responses increased.
Martín, J. & Luque-Larena, J.J. & López, P. (2009) -
Many studies show that prey should not flee immediately from approaching predators, but should adjust their fleeing distance to minimize flight costs. We explored a new scenario where an ambush predator appears close to a relatively cryptic prey, that the predator has not yet detected. Then, instead of approaching further, the predator stops and starts looking for prey from a vantage point, while maintaining a constant distance with the still undetected prey. Probability of detection of prey will increase with time of searching. We predicted that prey should wait before escaping until the time (‘fleeing time’) when the risk of being detected, which depends on prey conspicuousness, equals fleeing costs. We tested this prediction in the field by simulating an ambush predator and examining escape decisions of rock lizards, Iberolacerta cyreni, considering two risk levels (i.e. the predator has or does not have information on the prey location) and relative conspicuousness of lizards (i.e. differences in coloration and body size). Lizards fled after some time, even if the distance between predator and prey remained constant and an attack had not been launched, probably because risk of being detected increases with time. However, to minimize fleeing costs, lizards modulated their fleeing times depending on probability of being detected (related to colour conspicuousness differences) and on size-dependent escape performance. Nevertheless, conspicuousness seemed unimportant after the predator had acquired information on the location of a prey, and/or the predator was considered as more dangerous because it had previously attacked the prey.
Martin, J. & Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Lopez, P. & Ibanez, A. & Rodriguez-Dominguez, A. & Verdaguer, I. (2015) -
Many lizards use femoral gland secretions in reliable intraspecific communication. Based on mass spectra, obtained by GCeMS, we found 57 lipophilic compounds in femoral secretions of males and females of El Hierro giant lizards, Gallotia simonyi (fam. Lacertidae). Compounds included steroids (mainly cholesterol) and fatty acids ranging between n-C16 and n-C22 (mainly hexadecanoic and octadecanoic acids), followed by aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, squalene and waxy esters. There were important intersexual differences in thepresence, abundance and number of compounds (more numerous in males). Males had higher proportions of the most odoriferous compounds (fatty acids and aldehydes), while females had higher proportions of more stable compounds (steroids, waxy alcohols, waxy esters and terpenoids). This suggests sexual differences in function of femoral secretions. In addition, some compounds could reflect the physiological state, allowing monitoring health of lizards from secretions samples, which is especially important given the critical conservation status of this lizard.
Martín, J. & Moreira, P.L. & López, P. (2007) -
1. Male competition for females often results in the evolution of conspicuous male traits that signal fighting ability or dominance status. Most studies examining mechanisms allowing these traits to function as reliable status signals (or badges) have focused on conspicuous visual or acoustic traits. However, many animals communicate chemically, and chemical traits alone may also signal male dominance status. 2. We examined whether chemicals in femoral gland secretions of male Iberian rock lizards ( Lacerta monticola monticola Boulenger 1905) may signal dominance status. 3. In staged encounters, larger males were dominant over smaller ones. While controlling for male body size, males of higher dominance status produced femoral secretions with higher proportions of hexadecanol and octadecanol. 4. Tongue-flick assays showed that males were able to (1) discriminate, by chemosensory cues alone, the different concentrations of hexadecanol from other chemicals presented in femoral secretions; (2) respond aggressively towards hexadecanol while responding neutrally towards other chemicals; and (3) show differential chemosensory and aggressive behaviours towards hexadecanol according to their own dominance status. 5. These results suggest that hexadecanol may be a reliable status badge. Moreover, because hexadecanol elicits male aggressive behaviour, subordinate males signalling high status (‘cheaters’) may end up paying high fighting costs. In addition, males that had higher dominance status, and that allocated higher proportions of hexadecanol to femoral secretions, had greater T-cell immune responses. This result suggests a possible link between quality of the immune system, dominance status, and chemical signals.
Martin, J. & Ortega, J. & López, P. (2015) -
lizards might evolve in the evolutionary time to ensure that signals are perfectly tuned to local humidity and temperature conditions affecting their volatility and therefore their persistence and transmission through the environment.We tested experimentally whether interpopulational altitudinal differences in chemical composition of femoral gland secretions of male Iberian wall lizards (Podarcis hispanicus) have evolved to maximize efficacy of chemical signals in different environmental conditions. Chemical analyses first showed that the characteristics of chemical signals of male lizards differed between two populations inhabiting environments with different climatic conditions in spite of the fact that these two populations are closely related genetically.We also examined experimentally whether the temporal attenuation of the chemical stimuli depended on simulated climatic conditions. Thus, we used tongue-flick essays to test whether female lizards were able to detect male scent marks maintained under different conditions of temperature and humidity by chemosensory cues alone. Chemosensory tests showed that chemical signals of males had a lower efficacy (i.e. detectability and persistence) when temperature and dryness increase, but that these effects were more detrimental for signals of the highest elevation population, which occupies naturally colder and more humid environments.We suggest that the abiotic environment may cause a selective pressure on the form and expression of sexual chemical signals. Therefore, interpopulational differences in chemical profiles of femoral secretions of male P. hispanicus lizards may reflect adaptation to maximize the efficacy of the chemical signal in different climates.
Many animals can recognize chemical cues of predators and show defensive responses, but antipredatory behavior can be costly and should be modulated depending on the level of risk posed by each predatory species. Recognition ability may be innate, but it is not clear whether there might also be local adaptation to predation pressure levels or some learning component. We examined the chemosensory ability of naïve and adult Iberian wall lizards, Podarcis hispanicus, to detect chemical cues of two closely related Coronella snake species in two localities within the same continuous population. Lizards in each locality are sympatric with only one of the two snake species. Our results showed an innate chemosensory discrimination of predatory snake cues, as both adult lizards and captive reared naïve hatchlings, which had not had any previous experience with the snake cues, had short latencies to the first tongue-flick, increased tongue-flick responses, and active escape behavior from the scent of either of the two snake species. Moreover, adult lizards, but not naïve hatchlings, showed differential responses to the two different snake species, with higher responses to the snake species that is sympatric in each locality. This strongly suggests that there is a learning component acquired through previous lifetime experiences that may increase accuracy of the discrimination of the sympatric snake. Therefore, through learning of local conditions, lizards may modulate their innate antipredatory responses to the risk level posed by each snake species.
Martin, J. & Salvador, A. (1992) -
We investigated experimentally the effect of tail loss on microhabitat use in a population of the Iberian rock lizard, Lacerta monticola . Significant differences in microhabitat use were not detected between tailed and tailless lizards during the reproductive season (spring), but during summer tailless lizards were more than often associated with rocks and used grassy and bare ground less than did tailed lizards. Conflicting requirements during reproductive versus non reproductive seasons may explain that tailless lizards do not modify microhabitat use during spring by means of behavioral flexibility.
Martin, J. & Salvador, A. (1993) -
The consequences of tail loss on the thermal biology of high-altitude rock lizards (Lacerta monticola) were studied by comparing field body temperatures, selected body temperatures in a gradient, and behavioural patterns of thermoregulation of tailed and tailless lizards in the field. Neither field nor selected body temperatures differed significantly between these groups. Time spent basking, mean duration of basking, and basking frequency did not differ between tailed and tailless lizards. Tailless lizards seemingly adjusted for running impairment by using rocks to a greater extent than did tailed lizards, and low morning body temperatures by increasing maximal duration of basking periods and keeping shorter distances to the nearest refuge. Tailless lizards modify thermoregulatory behaviour, but obtain the same thermoregulatory precision as tailed lizards, possibly allowing maximization of physiological processes linked to tail regeneration.
Many lizards autotomize their tail to escape when attacked by a predator. The foraging tactics of tailless lizards may be affected by changes in behavior aimed at compensating tail loss per se as well as associated costs of regeneration. We tested this hypothesis in a population of the Iberian rock-lizard (Lacerta monticola), during the reproductive season, by comparing the diet of tailed and tailless lizards with the estimated prey availability in their habitat. We also compared the feeding rates, foraging microhabitat and foraging tactics of tailed and tailless lizards. Tail loss did not affect feeding rates, nor did it alter the foraging tactics of either sex during spring. Tailless lizards used rocky microhabitats where predation was avoided, but where food availability was lower, and thus diet diversity decreased at least among tailless males. Their diet consisted primarily of Bibio flies, an apparently suboptimal prey item.
Many lizards autotomize their tails to escape when grasped by a predator. It is hypothesized that tail loss causes a reduction in social status, thereby potentially lowering their reproductive success. We experimentally induced tail loss in Lacerta monticola in a semi-natural enclosure, and show that tail loss reduced social status and mating access in males. Tailless males increased body mass more rapidly than tailed dominant males, probably due to lower aggression costs. Also, tailless females were courted less and copulated less than tailed females, supporting the hypothesis that tail loss decreases reproduction potential.
Martin, J. & Salvador, A. (1995) -
Martin, J. & Salvador, A. (1997) -
We describe microhabitat selection in the Iberian rock lizard Lacerta monticola, a species endemic to some high mountains of the Iberian peninsula. This species is potentially threatened, in particular, by changes in habitat conditions on the ski slopes and from associated buildings in resorts that proliferate precisely in areas it favours. We analyse the relationship between habitat physical structure and population densities, in order to establish a predictive habitat-population model. Lizards select large rock screes and Cytisus bushes, but scarcely use Juniperus bushes and grassy areas. Individuals have an aggregated spatial distribution. The application of this habitat model may allow predictions to be made about the response of L. monticola to artificial and natural habitat changes, and could help to manage suitable habitats for populations.
Many lizards use caudal autotomy as an antipredatory strategy. We experimentally examined the effect of tail loss on the time-budgets, movement patterns, and home range size of the Iberian rock lizard Lacerta monticola in the field during the mating season. Our results indicate that tail loss did not alter most variables in male and female time-budgets but did affect the time spent moving and movement patterns of males. Tailless males spent less time moving and, when moving, more time on rocks, with shorter movements, more pauses, and less time on bushes than did tailed ones. Home range size was smaller in tailless males but did not differ between tailed and tailless females. The results suggest that tailless males may compensate the survival cost of autotomy by modifying their use of space and time; as a result, however, they may incur lower access to females.
Martin, J. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Reguera, S. & López, P. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2017) -
Chemical signals used in intraspecific communication are expected to evolve or to show phenotipic plasticity to maximize efficacy in the climatic conditions of a given environment. Elevational environmental gradients in mountains provide a good opportunity to test this hypothesis by examining variation in characteristics of signals in species found across different elevations with different climatic conditions. We analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) the lipophilic fraction of the femoral gland secretions of male lizards Psammodromus algirus (Fam. Lacertidae) from six localities located along a 2200 m elevational gradient at Sierra Nevada Mountains (SE Spain). There was elevational clinal variation in climatic variables, number of femoral pores and in the relative proportions of some classes of compounds (i.e., ethyl esters of fatty acids, waxy esters, and aldehydes) but not others. We discuss how this variation would result in different physicochemical properties of the entire femoral secretion, which might help optimize the efficacy of chemical signals under the particular microclimatic conditions at each elevation.
Martin, J.E. (2005) -
En el presente estudio se ha llevado a cabo el análisis helmintofaunístico de 8 especies y subespecies de hospedadores pertenecientes al género Gallotia (Sauria: Lacertidae) de las Islas Canarias, en concreto: G. stehlini (Gran Canaria), G. caesaris caesaris (El Hierro), G. c. gomerae (La Gomera), G. galloti galloti (Tenerife), G. g. palmae (La Palma), G. atlantica atlantica (Lanzarote), G. a. laurae (Lanzarote) y G. a. mahoratae (Fuerteventura). En total, se han encontrado 23 especies de helmintos: 1 Digenea (Pseudoparadistomum yaizaensis), 5 Cestoda (Mesocestoides sp., Dipylidium sp., Diplopylidium acanthotetra, Oochoristica agamae y Nematotaenia tarentolae), 16 Nematoda (Thelandros filiformis, Thelandros galloti, Thelandros tinerfensis, Alaeuris numidica canariensis, Tachygonetria dentata, Tachygonetria macrolaimus, Tachygonetria conica, Tachygonetria numidica, Parapharyngodon micipsae, Parapharyngodon echinatus, Parapharyngodon bulbosus, Spauligodon atlanticus, Skrjabinelazia pyrenaica, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni, Skrjabinodon medinae y Spirurida gen. sp.), y 1 Acanthocephala (Centrorhynchus sp.). El análisis efectuado revela diferencias en la estructura y composición de las comunidades helmintianas de estos lagartos canarios, tanto entre sí, como en relación a otros lacértidos insulares y continentales. Estas diferencias están principalmente relacionadas con: (i) la existencia de especies endémicas de helmintos; (ii) la presencia de nematodos Pharyngodonidae típicos de reptiles herbívoros, en todos los hospedadores excepto en los de las islas más orientales (G. atlantica) y, en mayor medida, en los lagartos de mayor tamaño (G. stehlini); (iii) la existencia de comunidades helmintianas con tendencia hacia una elevada diversidad en términos de riqueza y abundancia de especies, principalmente en los hospedadores de mayor tamaño y en los de mayor contenido de materia vegetal en sus tractos digestivos (G. stehlini y G. galloti palmae).
Martin, J.E. & Llorente, G.A. & Roca, V. & Carretero, M.A. & Montori, A. & Santos, X. & Romeu, R. (2005) -
Diet and helminth fauna were analysed in Gallotia caesaris, a small lacertid lizard endemic to El Hierro (Canary Islands, Spain) in order to study the evolutionary and functional relationships between the two traits. This species is omnivorous but consumed a high proportion (82.13%) of plant matter including not only seeds but also leaves and other vegetative parts. Helminth fauna included many helminth species typical of herbivorous reptiles. Both herbivory and helminth presence were higher than expected for a lizard of its size. Comparison with other lacertids suggests that both traits result from an adaptation to insular conditions but that some “evolutionary time” to develop them is needed. Canarian Gallotia lizards, a separate lineage evolving for a long time in insularity, constitutes the most advanced lacertid group in this way. Nevertheless, results for G. caesaris indicate that helminth fauna also changes seasonally tracking variation in diet (and herbivory) throughout the year, which suggests a dynamic interaction between diet and helminth parasites.
Martin, J.E. & Roca, V. (2004) -
A survey of gastrointestinal helminth communities of Gallotia caesaris caesaris (Lehrs, 1914) and G. c. gomerae (Boettger and Müller, 1914), from the islands of El Hierro and La Gomera, respectively, in the Canary Archipelago, Spain, was conducted to determine the prevalence, intensity, and diversity of intestinal parasites of these lacertid lizards. Larval forms of cestodes, nematodes, and acanthocephalans were found in the body cavity of G. c. caesaris; this lizard is the intermediate or paratenic host in the life cycle of these helminths. Pharyngodonid nematodes were the most common intestinal helminths in both hosts, 4 of them being Gallotia spp. specialists. Helminth infracommunities of both hosts were depauperate and isolationist, according to the low values of helminth diversity.
Martin, M. (2013) -
Martin, M. & Le Galliard, J.F. & Meylan, S. & Low, E.R. (2015) -
Male and female Lacertid lizards often display conspicuous coloration that is involved in intraspecific communication. However, visual systems of Lacertidae have rarely been studied and the spectral sensitivity of their retinal photoreceptors remains unknown. Here, we characterise the spectral sensitivity of two Lacertid species from contrasting habitats: the wall lizard Podarcis muralis and the common lizard Zootoca vivipara. Both species possess a pure-cone retina with one spectral class of double cones and four spectral classes of single cones. The two species differ in the spectral sensitivity of the LWS cones, the relative abundance of UVS single cones (potentially more abundant in Z. vivipara) and the coloration of oil droplets. Wall lizards have pure vitamin A1-based photopigments, whereas common lizards possess mixed vitamin A1 and A2 photopigments, extending spectral sensitivity into the near infrared, which is a rare feature in terrestrial vertebrates. We found that spectral sensitivity in the UV and near infrared improves discrimination of small variations in throat coloration among Z. vivipara. Thus, retinal specialisations optimise chromatic resolution in common lizards, indicating that the visual system and visual signals might co-evolve.
Martin, M. & Meylan, S. & Gomez, D. & le Galliard, J.-F.. (2013) -
Lizards display structural and pigment-based colorations, and their visual system is sensitive to wavelengths of 300–700 nm. However, few studies in squamate reptiles have quantified interindividual colour variation that includes the structural ultraviolet (UV) component (300–400 nm). In the present study, we investigated variability of a ventral UV/yellow–red ornamentation in the common lizard Zootoca vivipara, including an analysis of spatial distribution, as well as sex and age differences. We also investigated whether the expression of coloration is related to body size and condition. Our analyses revealed two distinct patches: a gular patch with a strong UV reflectance and a belly patch with a dominant yellow–red reflectance. Males displayed a less saturated throat coloration with higher UV chroma and UV hue, and had a redder but duller belly coloration than females. Yearlings had less elaborate ornaments than adults, although they already displayed a yellow–red sexual dichromatism on the belly. UV sexual dichromatism was only apparent in adults as a result of a weaker UV reflectance in females, suggesting potential fitness costs of a bright UV coloration in that sex. Different colour traits were related to body size in both sexes, as well as to body condition in males. We discuss the potential evolutionary scenarios leading to the maintenance of this ornament in common lizards.
Martin, M. & Meylan, S. & Haussy, C. & Decancière, B. & Perret, S. & Galliard, J.F. le (2016) -
Ultraviolet (UV) colors are visual signals potentially involved in territorial conflicts. However, the role of UV signals remains unclear relative to the prior resident effect and familiarity with the opponent, and the reliability of UV signals is still controversial. Male common lizards Zootoca vivipara exhibit substantial variation in the reflectance of their throat UV color patch. We tested whether UV reflectance was correlated with indicators of individual condition. We further manipulated throat UV reflectance of resident and intruder lizards and staged repeated encounters in the laboratory during the mating season. We found no evidence of condition dependence of the UV colors expression. During the first encounter among unfamiliar males, a reduction of UV reflectance of 1 of the 2 opponents influenced agonistic behaviors and the contest outcome, such that there was a significant advantage for residents over intruders. This advantage disappeared when both opponents were UV reduced. During the subsequent encounters among familiar males, fighting was more aggressive when opponents displayed similar UV signals, but UV signals did not influence the contest outcome. These results demonstrate that UV reflectance acted as a badge of status in male common lizards whose effects on the behavioral response were modulated, but not overridden, by the prior resident effect and by the familiarity effect. Male–male interactions are therefore mediated by UV signaling and competition for mates should play a major role in the evolutionary maintenance of this ornament. We discuss putative functions and reliability of UV signals.
Martin, M. & Meylan, S. & Petter, S. & Le Galliard, J.F. (2015) -
A bright ultraviolet (UV) component in the coloration of males may signal individual quality and thus determine the outcome of male-male contests. Yet, the role of the UV component of coloration in resolving conflicts is still controversial relative to factors such as residency status and seasonality. Here, we investigated whether a reduction of UV reflectance of lateral blue spots in male wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) interacts with residency status (resident vs. intruder) to influence agonistic behaviors, the outcome of contests, and basking time (a measure of spatial dominance). We performed this experiment during one breeding and one non-breeding season. The UV manipulation did not predict the outcome of contests. During the breeding season, the agonistic behaviors and basking time depended on the residency status of males but not on their UV treatment. During the non-breeding season, experimental factors affected basking time only. For a given male, the time spent basking depended in a complex manner on its residency status, its UV treatment, and those of its rival. UV reflectance of blue spots thus influences the processes of mutual assessment and spatial dominance, but is not a critical determinant of fighting success. Altogether, these results evidence context-dependent effects of the UV reflectance of blue spots on territorial behaviors according to residency status and, potentially, season. They also suggest that UV signaling may be more important than expected for male-male interactions during the non-breeding season.
Martin, M.R. (1998) -
In der Zeit von Juli 1996 bis Juni 1997 wurden auf der Heidelberger Gemarkung zwei Populationen von Mauereidechsen (Podarcis muralis) untersucht. Die Vorkommen liegen am wärmebegünstigten Südhang des Heiligenberges entlang des Philosophenweges (ca. 100 m über der Talsohle) und am Fuße dieses Hanges, am Neckarufer (Neuenheimer Landstraße/Leinpfad). Bei den ökologisch ausgerichteten Untersuchungen wurden neben verschiedenen morphologischen Merkmalen der Mauereidechsen auch Aspekte ihres Verhaltens sowie Faktoren wie Mikroklima, Vegetation, Begleitfauna und die Reviergrößen untersucht. Die Ergebnisse beider Populationen wurden verglichen und bewertet und werden hier kurz vorgestellt.
Martín, T. & González, J.L. & Tapia, J. (2009) -
Martin, T.E. & Guillemin, M. & Nivet-Mazerolles, V. & Landsman, C. & Dubos, J. & Eudeline, R. & Stroud, J.T. (2017) -
The diverse habitats of central Uzbekistan support a rich herpetofaunal community, but distributions and relative abundances of the species comprising this community remain poorly known. Here, we present an annotated species inventory of this under-explored area, with detailed notes on distributions and population statuses. Fieldwork was concentrated in southern Navoi and western Samarkand provinces, although some records were also made in the far north of Navoi province, near the city of Uchkuduk. Data were collected between March and May/June in 2011, 2012, and 2013, with herpetofaunal records being made opportunistically throughout this period. Survey effort was concentrated in semi-desert steppe area located to the south of the city of Navoi and an expanse of unnamed steppe located to the north of Navoi. Further records were made in a range of other habitat types, notably wetlands, sand dune fields, and low rocky mountains. Total fieldwork equated to approximately 8,680 person-hours of opportunistic survey effort. In total, we detected two amphibian and 26 reptile species in our study area, including one species classified as Globally Vulnerable by the IUCN. We present distributional data supporting the first record of regional range extensions of five species from within our study area. Our results represent the most detailed data concerning reptile and amphibian diversity and distributions produced from Uzbekistan in recent years. We conclude by recommending that further, systemized survey work needs to be conducted within the area to supplement our findings with more robust estimates of species abundances supported by more detailed information on specieshabitat relationships.
Martinage, A. & Depeiges, A. & Wouters, D. & Morel, L. & Sautiere, P. (1996) -
Martinerie, G. (2013) -
Martinez Carmona, J.M. & Torrents Rodriguez, F. (0000) -
Martinez del Mármol Marin, G. (2012) -
Martinez del Mármol, G. & Harris, D.J. & Geniez, P. & Pous, P. de & Salvi, D. (2019) -
Martinez Medina, F.J. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2002) -
Martinez Rica, J.P. (1981) -
This paper presents the first data on the ecology of the Giant Hierro Lizard (Gallotia simonyi simonyi) from Canary Islands; this animal was believed to be extinct until its recent finding, in 1975. The biotope, a very steep rocky cliff, almost inaccessible in many places, is described; the climate of the area is subdesertic and the plant cover, very sparse, is xerophytic; the vertebrate fauna is poor, but insects are abundant and diverse. The colour of this lizard is almost black, with large dull grey patches at the sides in the adults, while in the youngs the colour is earthly brown with whitish dorsal stripes. The largest specimen we measured was near 70 cm from snout to tail`s end. Daily activity begins in young specimens when the sun reaches the area, while in the adult ones activity begins somewhat later, even at noon for the oldest animals. The diet consists entirely of plants, and includes lignified stems and other non-nourishing parts from several species (Kleinia neriifolia, Lavandula abrotanoides, etc.). Obviously there exists a strong intraspecific competition for food. The number of animals was very low in September 1975, about 200 specimens, half of them or more being young. This number might have been increased by now through protective measures recently adopted. Nevertheless, the status of the population is still critical and the danger of its extinction is strong. Some recent plans to modify the area, building industrial facilities nearby, may have, of course, very bad effects on this lizard.
Martinez Rica, J.P. & Laplaza, E. (1989) -
Martínez Villarejo, A.J. & López de la Cuadra, V. & García Rodríguez, J.A. (2017) -
Martinez-Garcia, F. & Amiguet, M. & Olucha, F. & Lopez-Garcia, C. (1986) -
The connections of the lateral cortex of the lizard Podarcis hispanica have been traced using horseradish peroxidase transport techniques. After injections, restricted to the lateral cortex, labelled neurons can be observed bilaterally in the main olfactory bulbs and the diagonal band, contralaterally in the lateral cortex and ipsilaterally in the nucleus of the lateral olfactory tract, the ventral amygdaloid nucleus and also in the area triangularis. An efferent has also been shown on the ipsilateral medial cortex. This pattern of connections supports the hypothesis that the reptilian lateral cortex is comparable to the entorhinal and piriform cortex of mammals.
Martinez-Garcia, F. & Amiguet, M. & Schwerdtfeger, W.K. & Olucha, F.RE. & Lorente, M.J. (1990) -
The cells-of-origin and the mode and site of termination of the interhemispheric connections passing through the anterior and posterior pallid commissures in the telencephalon of two lizards (Podarcis hispanica and Gallotia stehlinii) were investigated by studying the anterograde and retrograde transport of unilaterally injected horseradish peroxidase. The commissural projections arise mainly from pyramidal cells in the medial, dorsomedial, and dorsal cortices (medial subfield). Additionally some non-pyramidal neurons in the medial and dorsal cortices contribute to the commissural system. Medial cortex neurons project to the contralateral anterior septum through the anterior pallial commissure. The dorsomedial cortex projects contralaterally via the anterior pallid commissure to the dorsolateral septum and to the medial, dorsomedial, and dorsal cortices. The projection to the medial cortex terminates in two bands at the inner and outer border, respectively, of the cell layer; the projection to the dorsomedial and dorsal cortex ends in a zone in layer 1 which previously has been described to be Timm-negative, and in a diffuse band in the inner half of layer 3. The medial subfield of the dorsal cortex projects through the anterior pallial commissure to the dorsomedial and dorsal cortices with a similar pattern of termination to that found for the dorsomedial cortex. The posterior pallial commissure contains only the projections from the ventral cortex to ist contralateral counterpart and to the ventral part of the caudal medial cortex. The similarities found between this commissural system and the mammalian hippocampal interhemispheric connections are discussed.
Martinez-Garcia, F. & Novejarque, A. & Landete, J.M. & Moncho-Bogani, J. & Lanuza, E. (2002) -
The present work studies the distribution of calcitonin gene-related peptideimmunoreactive (CGRP-li) neurons and fibers in the brain of a reptile, the lizard Podarcis hispanica. CGRP-li perikarya were not present in the telencephalon. In the thalamus, CGRP-li perikarya were restricted to the posteromedial and posterolateral nuclei. In the hypothalamus, CGRP-li cells were found mainly in the supramammillary and mammillary nuclei. In the midbrain and brainstem, CGRP-li cells appeared in the ventral tegmental area, the parabrachial nucleus, and the motor nuclei of the III–VII, IX, X, and XII cranial nerves. Motoneurons of the ventral horn of the spinal cord were also immunoreactive for CGRP. CGRP-li fibers were seen in the telencephalic hemispheres, where a dense plexus of reactive fibers appeared in the septum and in the lateral striatoamygdaloid transition area. From the latter, CGRP-li fibers entered the posterior dorsal ventricular ridge, the cell layer and deep stratum of the ventral lateral cortex, and various amygdaloid nuclei. Parts of the striatum (nucleus accumbens) and pallidum also displayed CGRP-li innervation. In the diencephalon, CGRP-li innervation was observed in parts of the dorsal thalamus and in the periventricular and medial hypothalamus. The pretectum and deep layers of the optic tectum also showed CGRP-li fibers, and numerous CGRP-li fibers were observed in the midbrain central gray, tegmentum, and pons. Some of the sensory fibers of the trigeminal, vagal, and spinal nerves were also CGRP-li. These results show that the distribution of CGRP-li structures in the reptilian brain is similar to that described for other vertebrates and suggest that the thalamotelencephalic CGRPergic projections appear to be conserved among amniote vertebrates.
Martinez-Garcia, F. & Olucha, F.E. & Teruel, V. & Lorente, M.J. & Schwerdtfeger, W.K. (1991) -
The connections of the olfactory bulbs of Podarcis hispanica were studied by tract-tracing of injected horseradish peroxidase. Restricted injections into the main olfactory bulb (MOB) resulted in bilateral terminallike labeling in the medial part of the anterior olfactory nucleus (AON) and in the rostral septum, lateral cortex, nucleus of the lateral olfactory tract, and ventrolateral amygdaloid nucleus. Bilateral retrograde labeling was found in the rostral lateral cortex and in the medial and dorsolateral AON. Ipsilaterally the dorsal cortex, nucleus of the diagonal band, lateral preoptic area, and dorsolateral amygdala showed labeled cell bodies. Retrogradely labeled cells were also found in the midbrain raphe nucleus. Results from injections into the rostral lateral cortex and lateral olfactory tract indicate that the mitral cells are the origin of the centripetal projections of the MOB. Injections in the accessory olfactory bulb (AOB) produced ipsilateral terminallike labeling of the ventral AON, bed nucleus of the accessory olfactory tract, central and ventromedial amygdaloid nuclei, medial part of the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and nucleus sphericus. Retrograde labeling of neurons was observed ipsilaterally in the bed nucleus of the accessory olfactory tract and stria terminalis, in the central amygdaloid nucleus, dorsal cortex, and nucleus of the diagonal band. Bilateral labeling of somata was found in the ventral AON, the nucleus sphericus (hilus), and in the mesencephalic raphe nucleus and locus coeruleus. Injections into the dorsal amygdala showed that the mitral neurons are the cells of origin of the AOB centripetal projections. Reciprocal connections are present between AOB and MOB. To our knowledge, this is the first study to address the afferent connections of the olfactory bulbs in a reptile. On the basis of the available data, a discussion is provided of the similarities and differences between the reptilian and mammalian olfactory systems, as well as of the possible functional role of the main olfactory connections in reptiles.
Martinez-Guijarro, F.J. & Berbel, P.J. & Molowny, A. & López Garcia, C. (1984) -
Gold-toned bipyramidal neurons of the dorsomedial cortex of Lacerta have been studied using light and electron microscopy. The spines have been classified as stubby, mushroom-shaped or thin. Thin and mushroomshaped spines are only found on proximal and intermediate dendritic segments, whereas stubby spines are found on distal dendritic segments. A Timm`s method modification for electron microscopy (sulphide-osmium procedure) has been used. Timm-positive axonal endings usually synapse on thin and mushroomshaped spines, whereas Timm-negative axonal endings usually synapse on stubby spines. Timm-positive afferents and their post-synaptic spines on bipyramidal neurons of Lacerta`s dorsomedial cortex are compared with the corresponding elements on pyramidal neurons of the CA3 region of the hippocampus of mammals, on the basis of several histochemical and morphological studies. The possibility that these two neuronal types may be homologous is discussed.
Martinez-Medina, F.J. (2001) -
Martinez-Rica, J.-P. & Reine-Vinales, A. (1988) -
Martínez-Rica, J.P. (1967) -
Martinez-Rica, J.P. (1976) -
Martinez-Rica, J.P. (1977) -
Martinez-Rica, J.P. (1982) -
Martínez-Rica, J.P. (1986) -
Martinez-Rica, J.P. (2004) -
Martínez-Rica, J.P. & Castilla, A. M. (1987) -
Martínez-Rica, J.P. & Cirer, A.M. (1982) -
The status of the populations of Podarcis pityusensis on about 70 islets and small islands around Ibiza and Formentera (Balearic Islands) is examined, using data from our own observations, and, to a lesser amount, other publications. Lizard populations were found on 43 islets, but data are lacking for another 13. Only 10 sites (18 %) have abundant and well-maintained populations. In 13 localities (23%), there is no geographic isolation between the populations, or this isolation is very poor and incomplete. The high probability of populations mixing, or actual observation of this mixing, in 19 islands (34%) is indicated. Human pressure on lizard populations is strong in 14 cases (25 %). And finally, 18 populations (about one third) may be considered highly endangered or already extinct by elimination or genetic mixing with other populations. Among the subspecies which became extinct through mixing are P.p. miguelensis, P.p. subformenterae, P.p. algae, P.p. sabinae and P.p. grueni. The need for adequate protective measures aimed at the conservation of the remaining populations is emphasized.
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Borras, D. & Carretero, M.A. (2018) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Darias, S. & Lavin, S. & Cuenca, R. (2010) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Galán, P. (1999) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Gosá, A. & Izagirre, A. & Rebollo Fernández, B. (2023) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Lanzarot-Freudenthal, P. & Soler-Mossana, J. (2001) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & López, E.A. (2020) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Marco, I. & Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. Lavin, S. & Cuenca, R. (2005) -
The objewct of this study was to examine the erythrocytes, leukocytes and thrombocytes of the giant lizard of El Hierro (Gallotia simonyi) by light and electron (TEM) microscopy, and cytochemical staining. Smears were prepared from blood from the ventral coccygeal vein of 10 healthy adult lizards (five males and five females) from the Giant Lizard of El Hierro Reproduction and Research Centre, Canary Islands, Spain. The cytoichemical stains used were: benzidine peroxidase (BP), chloroacetate esterase (CAE), alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase (ANAE), acid phosphatase (AP), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), toluidine blue (TB) and May-Grünwald-Giemsa (MGG). Electron microscopy was also performed on all samples. Heterophils had granules that were heterogeneous in b oth size and electron density, and stained with BP, PAS and ANAE. Eosinophil granules were homogeneously electron-dense and stained for AP, CAE and ANAE. Basophils had both highly and moderately electron-dense granules, and stained with TB and ANAE. Azurophil granules were of low electron-density and stained for AP, CAE and ANAE. Azurophil cytoplasm was vacuolated on TEM. The cytoplasm of lymphocytes contained many ribosomes and was positive for AP. Monocytes had a large nucleus and a vacualated cytoplasm but did not stain by any of the cytochemical methods used. Thrombocytes had a relatively large nucleus but little cytoplasm; they did not stein cytochemically. The blood cells of the giant lizards of El Hierro differ from those of other members of the Order Squamata both morphologically and cytochemically. The variation in cytochemical responses in the blood of reptiles makes it necessary to study species individually if meaningful clinical decisions are to be made.
Martínez-Silvestre, A. & Mateo, J.A. & Jones, M. & Gallego, S. & Soler, J. (2012) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Mateo, J.A. & Silveira, L. & Bannert, B. (2001) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Mateo, J.A. & Soler, J. & Pether, J. (2001) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. Mateo, J.A. & Pastor, J. & Marco, I. & Lavin, S. & Cuenca, R. (2004) -
Blood samples were taken from the ventral coccygeal vein of 15 El Hierro giant lizards (Gallotia simonyi) (seven females and eight males), six La Gomera giant lizards (Gallotia bravoana) (four males and two females) and four Tenerife giant lizards (Gallotia intermedia) (two males and two females), and 31 blood parameters were measured. Among the haematological parameters there were significant differences between the three species in heterophils, azurophils and lymphocytes, but no significant differences in red blood cell count, white blood cell count, haemoglobin, packed-cell volume, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils. in terms of blood chemistry there were significant differences between the three species in cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, sodium, chloride, urea, uric acid, total proteins, prealbumin, albumin and gamma globulins, but no significant differences in calcium, potassium, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, creatine kinase, bile acids, alpha-i and alpha-2 globulins and beta globulins.
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Silva , J. L. & Andreu, A. & Mateo, J. A. (2001) -
Martinez-SIlvestre, A. & Silva, J.L. & Silveira, L. (2002) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Silveira, L. & Mateo, J.A. & Urioste, J. & Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. & Pether, J. (2003) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Silveira, L. & Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. Saco, M. & Usera, M.A. (2004) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Soler Massana, J. (2000) -
Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Soler Massana, J. & Silva , J. L. & Mateo, J. A. (2002) -
Martinez-Solano, I. (2001) -
Martinez-Solano, I. (2009) -
Martínez, R. & Sánchez, S. & Alonso, J.M. & Herrera-León, S. & Rey, J. & Echeita, M.A. & Morán, J.M. & García-Sánchez, A. (2011) -
The aim of this work was to study the epidemiological status of Salmonella spp. and Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in an ocellated lizard research center focusing on the risk and hygiene aspects. Fecal and environmental samples were collected and examined for Salmonella spp. and STEC. Isolates were detected using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and characterized using serotyping and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Overall, 52% of samples were positive for Salmonella spp. using RT-PCR and seven isolates were obtained from samples from ocellated lizards and their environment, whereas no samples were positive for STEC. Salmonella isolates belonged to S. enterica subsp. enterica serovar Kibusi and S. enterica subsp. salamae serovars 41:z10:z6 and 18:z10:z6, some of which have previously been isolated from human sources. Indistinguishable and closely related PFGE types were found, which supported the existence of horizontal transmission between animals due to crowding of animals and the persistence of Salmonella in the environment. The results of the current study emphasize the need for improved prevention efforts and good hygiene practices in research centers, recuperation centers, and zoos with reptiles to minimize the exposure of personnel and visitors to this pathogen.
Martini, S. & Schmitt, M. (2022) -
Martini, S. & Schmitt, M. (2024) -
During two visits to the northeastern part of the Greek island of Lefkada, one in October 2022 and another in June 2023, 14 species of herpetofauna were recorded (two amphibian species, twelve reptile species), including one previously unrecorded species, the European cat snake Telescopus fallax. In addition, live specimens of Marginated tortoise Testudo marginata were found and location data for Dahl’s whip snake Platyceps najadum has been recorded. The observation localities of four species, Testudo hermanni, Testudo marginata, Platyceps najadum and Telescopus fallax are shown in an overview map.
Martinot, J.P. (1986) -
Martins, F.R. de Pina (2007) -
In this work phylogenetic and phylogeoraphic analyses are conducted on the species Psammodromus algirus based on samples from the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco with the goal of resolving the controversy relative to this subject that exists in the literature. Four genes were used (12s, 16s, cytochrome b and NAD4) which were analysed one by one and concatenated in different combinations. The results differed from dataset to dataset if the trees were rooted; in the case of unrooted trees, the results were relatively congruent. The phylogenetic approach was thus not enough to resolve the addressed issues and reach satisfying conclusions regarding the species present biogeographic patterns. In order to address this issue a population approach was made with a larger number of samples. With the combined results from both approaches it was possible to propose an explanation for this species past migrations which is different from the ones presented in former publications. Furthermore, software was developed in the context of this thesis, which is very useful in phylogenetic/phylogeographic analyses. The program`s purpose is to make data matrix conversions (FASTA to Nexus to FASTA with several program requirements in mind) and concatenation (of up to five Nexus data files) an easy task, that anyone with minimum computer skills can easily use it. The chapter about this software is the content of a paper which is in press in at the time of writing this thesis. Finally, comments are weaved on the outcome of this thesis, and brief remarks are made on the future of the two main components of this work.
Martirosyan I.A. & Kan N.G. & Malysheva D.N. & Trofimova A.A. & Korochkin L.I. & Ryskov A.P. & Tokarskaya O.N. & Petrosyan V.G. & Danielyan F.D. & Darevskii I.S. (2003) -
Population and family samples of two morphological forms (mutant and normal with respect to dorsal color) of parthenogenetic lizard species Darevskia armeniaca were examined by means of DNA fingerprinting using M13 mini- and (GACA) n and (TCC) n microsatellite DNA markers. The morphological forms examined were characterized by clonally inherited, species-specific patterns of the DNA markers, which were different from the species-specific DNA fingerprints of the other parthenogenetic species of the genus Darevskia (D. dahli, D. unisexualis, and D. rostombekovi). The mean index of similarity (S) obtained for a sample of 36 individuals from three isolated populations using three types of DNA markers was 0.966. This was similar to those observed in D. dahli (0.962) (P > 0.05), but higher than that in D. unisexualis (0.950) (P < 0.05) and D. rostombekovi(0.875) (P < 0.01). Inheritance of M13 minisatellite and (TCC) n microsatellite DNA markers in the F1 offspring of parthenogenetic lizards was examined. It was shown that variability and clonal diversity of the fingerprint phenotypes observed in the populations and families of D. armeniaca could be at least partly explained by RFLP mutations in microsatellite repeats.
Martirosyan, I.A. & Badaeva, T.N. & Malysheva, D.N. & Korchagin, V.I. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Danielyan, F.D. & Darevsky, I.S. & Tokarskaya, O.N. (2003) -
Martirosyan, I.A. & Korchagin, V.I. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Darevsky, I.S. & Ryskov, A.P. (2006) -
The Bov-B LINE retrotransposon was first discovered in Ruminantia and was long considered to be specific for this order. Later, this mobile element was described in snakes and some lizard species. Analysis of phylogenetic relationships of Bov-B LINE elements from different ruminants, snakes, and lizard species led to the suggestion on horizontal transfer of this retrotransposon from Squamata to Ruminantia. In the Squamata group, Bov-B LINE element was found in all snakes and some lizard species examined. The element was not detected in the genomes of some species of the genera Lacerta and Podarcis. In the present study, using PCR amplification and sequencing of PCR products, Bov-B LINE element was identified in the genomes of parthenogenetic and bisexual species of the genus Darevskia (Lacertidae), as well as in such species as Lacerta agilis and Zootoca vivipara, where this retrotransposon had not been not detected before.
Мартиросян И.А., Корчагин В.И., Токарская О.Н., Даревский И.С., Рысков А.П. (2006) -
Ретротранспозон Bov-B LINE впервые был обнаружен у копытных (Ruminantia) и долгое время считался специфическим только для данной группы животных. Однако позднее этот мобильный элемент был обнаружен в геноме змей и некоторых видов ящериц. Анализ филогенетических связей между Bov-B LINE у различных видов копытных, змей и ящериц позволил предположить горизонтальный перенос этого ретроэлемента от чешуйчатых (Squamata) к копытным (Ruminantia). В группе Squamata Bov-B LINE встречается в геноме всех изученных видов змей и некоторых видов ящериц. Этот элемент не был детектирован в геноме ряда видов родов Lacerta и Podarcis. В настоящей работе с помощью ПЦР-амплификации и секвенирования продуктов ПЦР получены данные, свидетельствующие о существовании Bov-B LINE-элемента в геноме партеногенетических и бисексуальных видов рода Darevskia (Lacertidae), а также у видов Lacerta agilis и Zootoca vivipara, в геноме которых ранее этот ретротранспозон обнаружить не удалось.
Martirosyan, I.A. & Odegov, D.O. & Kafarova, I.E. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Ryskov, A.P. & Korchagin, V.I. (2023) -
The Caucasian rock lizard species Darevskia portschinskii is one of the bisexual species participating in interspecific hybridisation as the paternal ancestor with the maternal ancestors D. mixta and D. raddei resulting in the successful formation of the parthenogenetic D. dahli and D. rostombekowi, respectively. Populations of D. portschinskii have been previously divided into two subspecies, D. p. portschinskii and D. p. nigrita according to their geographical distribution and the morphological data, but they have not been characterised genetically. Here, we used ten microsatellite markers to determine the genetic structure of the D. portschinskii populations. The utility of the developed microsatellite markers for investigating the genetic variability within and among populations with a heterogeneous spatial distribution was demonstrated. Our results showed that the intra- and interspecific differentiation of the studied populations were consistent with the morphological data on the subspecies status of the D. p. portschinskii and D. p. nigrita populations. A potential applicability of the developed microsatellite markers to study genetic diversity of Darevskia species and subspecies complexes is suggested.
Martirosyan, I.A. & Ryskov, A.P. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Aslanyan, A.V. & Danielyan, F.D. & Darevsky, I.S. & Tokarskaya, O.N. (2002) -
Variation and clonal diversity in populations of the parthenogenetic rock lizard Darevskia rostombekovi was examined by means of multilocus DNA fingerprinting using mini- and microsatellite DNA markers M13, (GATA)4, and (TCC)50). The animals examined were shown to exhibit a clonally inherited, species-specific pattern of DNA markers (fingerprint profile) that is different from the species-specific patterns of parthenogenetic species D. dahli, D. armenica, and D. unisexualis. The mean intraspecific similarity indexS was 0.950 (0.003) for a sample of 19 animals from three isolated populations of North Armenia. This significantly differed from the estimate of this parameter for a sample of 21 animals including two individuals from mountainous, relict population from the vicinity of the Sevan Lake, which was equal to 0.875 (0.001). A comparison of DNA fingerprints showed differences between 21 individuals attaining 79 DNA fragments of 1801 mini- and microsatellite markers included in the analysis. The results obtained show that intraspecific variation in D. rostombekovi is higher than that in the previously studied parthenogenetic species D. dahli (S = 0.962) andD. unisexualis (S= 0.950) (P< 0.001). Taking into account that D. rostombekovi is considered monoclonal on the basis of allozyme data, the problem of clonal variability is discussed with regard to the evidence on nuclear DNA markers. It is suggested that the hybrid karyotype of D. rostombekovi, which is more unstable than that of D. dahli and D. unisexualis, generates a series of chromosomal rearrangements (mutations). This may lead to the appearance of a geographically isolated chromosomal race (clone) in the population inhabiting the southeastern coast of the Sevan Lake.
Мартиросян И.А., Рысков А.П., Петросян В.Г., Аракелян М.С., Асланян А.В., Даниелян Ф.Д., Даревский И.С., Токарская О.Н. (2002) -
Martirosyan, I.A. & Valyaeva, A.A. & Araklyan, M.S. & Ryskov, A.P. (2022) -
The analysis of polymorphism of microsatellite loci of Darevskia raddei “Yerevan” population allowed us to establish that the population of D. raddei “Yerevan” belongs to the subspecies Darevskia raddei nairensis.
Martriun Rueda, J. (1992) -
Marty, P. (1900) -
Marushchak, O.Y. & Afanasyev, S.A. & Lietytska, O.M. & Golub, O.O. (2022) -
Tis paper contains information on the records of bottom macroinvertebrates, Fish, amphibians and reptiles collected during a Field expedition to the valley of the river Tskhenistskali (in the vicinities of town of Lentekhi and village of Sasashi) in April 2018. According to the results of the study, three Fish species (Actinopterigii) of three families (Salmonidae, Cyprinidae and Nemacheilidae) inhabits three studied rivers (Kheledula, Devashi and Tskhenistskali Rivers). Seven species of reptiles (Squamata: Anguidae — 1, Colubridae — 1, Viperidae — 1, Lacertidae — 4), and ve species of amphibians (Anura: Hylidae — 1, Bufonidae — 1, Ranidae – 2; Caudata: Salamandridae — 1) were registered within the investigated area. Around Lentekhi town three species of the genus Darevskia Arribas, 1999, namely Darevskia rudis svanetica (Darevsky & Eiselt, 1980), Darevskia brauneri brauneri (Mehely, 1909) and Darevskia derjugini abchasica (Bischoff, 1982) were found to live almost sympatrically, with only river serving as a natural barrier between the species. e paper also contains descriptions of habitats characteristic of the region for the species found and the results of route surveys with D. d. abchasica and P. ridibundus being the most numerous species of herpetofauna (sensu lato) — up to 35 and 20 individuals per 100 m of route. In order to illustrate the feeding base of the registered vertebrates, the study of species composition (n = 114) of bottom macroinvertebrates, that form the main component of food source for them. The recorded invertebrates belong to 16 taxonomic groups of the higher rank (up to 98.1 % of all benthic invertebrates appeared to be insects, including Ephemeroptera — 51 %, Plecoptera — 17.4 % Сhironomidae — 14.2 %, Trichoptera — 11.5 %, Diptera — 3 %). Other groups, namely Turbellaria, Nematoda, Oligochaeta, Araneida, Acarina, Collembola, Heteroptera, Coleoptera, in total form a little less than 3 % of all recorded species. Registrations of fauna from mountain regions will help to update actual maps of natural ranges of the species within the country and tend to be a valuable addition to the data that can be potentially used in GIS-modelling of species’ distribution according to predicted climate changes.
Marx, C. & Kayser, C. (1949) -
Marx, H. (1956) -
Marx, H. (1958) -
Marx, H. (1968) -
The checklist is based primarily on extensive collections made by the United States Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3 (NAMRU-3) in Egypt. Forms listed are those that are known or expected to occur in Egypt (including Sinai), and those that have been reported from Egypt without further verification. The systematic lists contain original citations, references to major faunal works, and the most recent reviews of each particular group. From the 3.424 specimens obtained, adequate distributional data are now available for most forms in Egypt. Maps showing collecting localities for each species are also presented for use in future sympatric and ecological studies.
Marzahn, E. & Mayer, W. & Stuckas, H. & Zagar, A. & Cafuta, V. & Fritz, U. (2013) -
Green lizards are widespread in Slovenia. Until now little is known about their taxonomic allocation. First mitochondrial (cytochrome b) and nuclear (ß-fibrinogen- intron7) data show that three different lineages of green lizards occur in Slovenia. In addition to two lineages of eastern green lizards (Lacerta viridis), the existence of the so called ‘Adriatic lineage’ is confirmed. In immediate vicinity (Italy and island of Cres, Croatia), the western green lizard (L. bilineata) occurs. This raises the question of whether there is gene flow between these two species. The nuclear marker provided evidence for gene flow. These results challenge the species status of L. bilineata and L. viridis.
Marzahn, E., Mayer, W., Joger, U., Ilgaz, Ç, Jablonski, D., Kindler, C., Kumlutaş, Y., Nistri, A., Schneeweiss, N., Vamberger, M., Žagar, A. & Fritz, U. (2016) -
Based on broad, nearly rangewide sampling, we reanalysed the phylogeography of the Lacerta viridis complex using the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and the intron 7 of the nuclear b-fibrinogen gene. Using the mitochondrial marker, we identified in phylogenetic analyses 10 terminal clades clustering in four deeply divergent main lineages whose relationships are weakly resolved. These lineages correspond to Lacerta bilineata, L. viridis, the previously identified Adriatic or West Balkan lineage and a newly discovered fourth lineage from the Anatolian Black Sea coast and the south-eastern Balkan Peninsula. Except for the latter lineage, there is considerable phylogeographic structuring in each lineage, with higher diversity in the south of the distribution ranges. This pattern indicates the existence of two distinct microrefugia in the Italian Peninsula and Sicily and of up to seven microrefugia in the Balkan Peninsula, but of only one refugium along the Black Sea coast of Anatolia. We identified secondary contact zones of the main lineages and of terminal clades within these lineages. However, most of the formerly described putative contact zone of L. bilineata and L. viridis turned out to be a contact zone between the Adriatic lineage and L. viridis, but L. bilineata seems to be involved only marginally. Our nuclear marker could not unambiguously resolve whether there is gene flow in contact zones. Thus, further research is necessary to decide whether the four main lineages are conspecific or whether they represent distinct biological species. We restrict the name L. v. meridionalis to the newly identified genetic lineage from Turkey and south-eastern Europe, synonymize some previously recognized taxa and suggest a tentative nomenclature for the L. viridis complex.
Mas Tugores, M.A. (2018) -
Gallotia galloti lizards as poikilotherms organisms, depend on the external environment to regulate its body temperature. Changes in environmental temperature are reflected in the heart rate, demonstrating a direct and exponential relation established from the study of the electrocardiogram (EKG). Moreover, heart rate is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. Studies have proved this by using blockers, which effects are reflected on the heart rate variability (HRV) signal obtained from the EKG. The hypothesis of this study was to analyse the effects of increasing environmental temperature could have on heart rate by studying the HRV signal. The results obtained in the time domain analysis allows to prove an increase in heartrate and an increase in the distance between RR intervals as well as the environmental temperature increases, showing the existence of an indirect relationship between these two parameters. Nonlinear analysis results show a decrease in the complexity of the function as the environmental temperature increases. The other parameters have not shown any statistical differences, therefore no conclusions can be established of the frequency domain analysis, representing the SNA activity.
Mascia, F. (2020) -
A five-year field research carried out between January 2008 and January 2013 resulted in the compilation of the first checklist of the herpetofauna of the Santa Gilla lagoon, a protected area sited in southern Sardinia, Italy. By using the Visual Encounter Survey (VES) approach, we systematically collected presence records for 18 species, of which 4 anurans (Amphibia, Anura) and 14 reptiles (Reptilia). Our observations were reinforced and enriched by an accurate consultation of the extant bibliography. In an attempt to perform a semi-quantitative analysis joining dispersion and recurrence data about the species observed, we assigned a Commonness Score to every species observed during the study years for each sampling station in the study area. Among the observed species, Caretta caretta (Testudines, Chelonidae), Emys orbicularis (Testudines, Emydae) and Hemorrhois hippocrepis (Squamata, Colubridae) are the rarest and those of the greatest conservation concern. We recorded only three Sardinian endemics (Discoglossus sardus, Anura, Atylidae; Hyla sarda, Anura, Hylidae; Podarcis tiliguerta, Squamata, Lacertidae), while two alien species Trachemys scripta (Testudines, Testudinidae) and Pelophylax sp. (Anura, Ranidae), already known for other localities in the island, were observed for the first time at this site. Unfortunately, two species of conservation concern previously recorded in the area (Testudo graeca and T. hermanni) were never observed during the five-year study, this possibly due to local extinction. We recorded almost 60% of the currently known amphibian and reptilian species of Sardinia and the totality of the anurans, confirming the key role of Santa Gilla lagoon for the conservation of the lowland herpetofauna of Sardinia and, in a broader perspective, of the Mediterranean area, as a whole.
Masius, P. (1999) -
Firsat record of Psammodromus algirus on Mallorca island.
Masius, P. (2001) -
Maslak, R. (1995) -
A reprot on lizard species inhabiting Poland, with remarks about their distribution and habits. There are three species found there undoubtfully. These are: Lacerta agilis, Lacerta vivipara, and Anguis fragilis. The presence of the fourth species - Lacerta viridis - is uncertain. The Population discovered in 1968 has been extincted.
Maslak, R. (2005) -
Maslak, R. & Pasko, L. (1997) -
In a study on the sex ratio of a Zootoca vivipara population near Wroclaw (SW Poland), carried out from 1992 - 1995, we found that the males were dominati ng. The data, which have been corroberated statistically, are discussed in regard to possible explanations of this Sex ratio.
Maslak, R. & Pasko, L. (1999) -
Maślak, R. & Paśko, L. & Kusnierz, J. & Moska, M. (2010) -
Studies concerning, among others, the sex ratio in a selected population of Lacerta vivipara were carried out during four years in the vicinity of Wroc aw (SW Poland). The results show that adult sex ratios are male-biased. Assuming prevalence of males among juveniles and yearlings would be burdened with too great error. Reasons for this phenomenon are discussed. The most probable factors determining male-biased sex ratio in studied population seem to be intersexual competition and its impact on female survival and possibly effect of predation. The predation hypothesis is supported by the data on the proportion of males and females with regenerated tails. The proportion is as high as 45.8% in females and only 36.7% in males. This may indicate that females are really more often wounded. Our results confirm that in a lowland populations mean adult mortality is usually lower in males.
Badania dotycz ce m.in. struktury płci przeprowadzono w ci gu czterech lat na wybranej populacji jaszczurki yworodnej, Lacerta vivipara, w okolicy Wrocáawia. Wyniki wskazuj , e w populacji wyst puje przewaga samców w populacji dorosáych osobników. W przypadku máodych i jaszczurek po pierwszym zimowaniunie stwierdzono istotnych statystycznie ró nic w strukturze páci. Dyskutowane s przyczyny tego zjawiska. Najbardziej prawdopodobnym czynnikiem decy- duj cym o przewadze samców u dorosáych zwierz t jest konkurencja mi dzy samcami i jej wpáyw na prze ywalno ü samic oraz mo liwy wpáyw drapie nictwa. Hipoteza zwi zana z tym ostatnim zjawiskiem znajduje uzasadnienie w danych dotycz cych proporcji samic i samców z regenerowanymi ogonami. Takie samice stanowi 45,8%, a samce tylko 36,7. Mo e to ozna- czaü, e samice s bardziej nara one na drapie nictwo. Uzyskane rezultaty potwierdzaj , e w populacjach nizinnych rednia miertelno ü dorosáych samców jest mniejsza ni samic.
Maślak, R. & Paśko, L. & Kusnierz, J. & Moska, M. & Heulin, B. & Surget-Groba, Y. (2010) -
Eight populations of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) from Poland (allozymes and cytochrome b gene sequences) and 18 populations from Poland, Slovakia, Austria, Hungary, Croatia, Italy, France and Russia (dloop region sequence) were studied. The level of allozyme polymorphism is very low. It was only found in two loci of two enzyme systems (MOD and PGD) among the 8 loci studied and only in two populations from North-Eastern and Central-Eastern Poland. Bayesian Inference and additional phylogenetic analyses basing on cytochrome b gene and dloop region indicate clearly that haplotypes from these two populations form a separate clade. The study confirms the homogenity of sand lizard populations in Central Europe (L. agilis argus) except for populations from NE and E of Poland (L. agilis chersonensis). Dloop analysis suggests the position of sand lizard from Croatia as L. agilis bosnica.
Wykonano badania zrónicowania genetycznego osmiu populacji jaszczurki zwinki z terenu Polski (allozymy i sekwencje genu cytochromu b) oraz 18 populacji z Polski, Słowacji, Austrii, Wegier, Chorwacji, Włoch, Francji i Rosji (sekwencje fragmentu d-loop). Stwierdzony poziom polimorfizmu allozymów był bardzo niski. Spo ród o miu studiowanych loci polimorfizm znaleziono tylko w dwóch loci dwóch systemów enzymatycznych (MOD i PGD). Dotyczył on populacji z północno- i srodkowo-wschodniej Polski. Analiza bayesowska oraz inne zastosowane metody filogenetyczne oparte na sekwencjach cytochromu B oraz regionu d-loop wskazuj , e haplotypy ze wschodniej Polski tworza oddzielny klad. Badania potwierdzaj jednorodno ü gene- tyczna badanych populacji z Europy rodkowej (L. agilis argus) z wyjatkiem populacji z północ- no-wschodniej i srodkowo-wschodniej czesci Polski oraz populacji chorwackiej (L. a. bosnica).
Maslova, I.V. (2008) -
The work was conducted in Khankaiskii Nature Reserve in 2001—2006 years. It was found that Takydromus wolteri regularly occurs in the two parts of Nature Reserve: the fl oodplain of the Sungacha River (the part «Chorotovo boloto») and the floodplain of the Spassovka River (the part «Zhuravliny»). Data on new localities are presented.
Maslova, I.V. (2016) -
Data on the distribution of amphibians and reptiles in the Russian Far East in the reserves and national parks of federal importance are presented, as well as the information on the representation of these groups of animals in regional Red Data Books and the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation is provided.
Maso Ferrerons, G. (2019) -
A central theme in ecology and evolution is to understand whether and how species respond to environmental changes. The amount of studies focusing on how species might cope with climate change has been steeply growing, given the importance of the actual climate change. At present, it is widely accepted that changes in mean environmental conditions can affect individual performance, life history strategies and population dynamics. While most climate change scenarios forecast a change in average climatic conditions, they as well predict a decrease in environmental predictability. However, evidence for the effects of environmental predictability is scarce and the few existing studies were mainly theoretical or generated extreme events, which are by themselves negative. Therefore, robust evidence for the predicted negative effects is needed and experiments should test the impact of environmental predictability on life-history traits and population dynamics. For this reason, this doctoral thesis aims at providing robust evidence for the effects of environmental predictability on life-history traits, population dynamics, and species responses. We experimentally tested whether and how changes in the predictability of precipitation affected life history traits and population dynamics of the common lizard Zootoca vivipara, a highly hygrophile species. We simulated more and less predictable precipitation in 12 semi-natural populations. Populations were maintained during one year and the experiment was repeated in two subsequent years. This experimental design allows to understand the generality of the responses and it allows testing whether differences in average climatic conditions may affect differences induced by precipitation predictability. Several parameters were measured to unravel effects of environmental predictability on individual performance and to allow for complex population dynamic models. Decreased environmental predictability, let to reduced growth of yearlings and reduced body condition of female juveniles, but no effects on body condition, growth and survival of adults. This suggests that different age classes and sexes might exhibit different sensitivities to environmental predictability. Less predictable environments negatively affected ornamental coloration of adult males, which shows that less predictable environments are costly. This also suggests that ornamental coloration may act as an early signal of changes in environmental conditions. The results also show that individuals exhibit compensatory strategies to prevent detrimental effects on fitness. The observed differential investment in adult growth, body condition and male ornamental coloration may have allowed to compensate negative effects of decreased precipitation predictability, since no significant differences in reproductive parameters between environmental predictability treatments were found at the end of the experiment. Environmental predictability did not significantly affect the individual key life history traits (i.e. survival and reproduction) and suggesting that compensatory strategies may have prevented major loses in fitness and effects on population dynamics. Nevertheless, the here applied stage-structured matrix model showed that less predictable environments led to a significant decrease of the population growth rate. This suggests that in order to assess the potential effect of climate change on species persistence, complex population dynamics modelling is required. This doctoral thesis is one of the first experimental studies demonstrating whether and how species might respond to changes in environmental predictability. The obtained results underpin predictions from theoretic models, that decreased environmental predictability might negatively affect species responses. Results also suggest that decreased environmental predictability may seriously reduce population persistence and increase species extinction risk. Since species, which are highly susceptible to changes in abiotic conditions, might respond similarly to changes in environmental predictability, the forecasted decrease in environmental predictability might aggravate the actual trends of species decline and extinction. This shows that environmental predictability is a very important non-neglectable determinant of population dynamics, which highlights the necessity to consider its effects in studies forecasting the consequences of climate change.
Masó, A. & Pijoan, M. (2011) -
Masó, G. & Kaufmann, J. & Clavero, H. & Fitze, P.S. (2019) -
Whether and how differences in environmental predictability affect life-history traits is controversial and may depend on mean environmental conditions. Solid evidence for effects of environmental predictability are lacking and thus, the consequences of the currently observed and forecasted climatechange induced reduction of precipitation predictability are largely unknown. Here we experimentally tested whether and how changes in the predictability of precipitation affect growth, reproduction, and survival of common lizard Zootoca vivipara. Precipitation predictability affected all three age classes. While adults were able to compensate the treatment effects, yearlings and juvenile females were not able to compensate negative effects of less predictable precipitation on growth and body condition, respectively. Differences among the age-classes’ response reflect differences (among age-classes) in the sensitivity to environmental predictability. Moreover, effects of environmental predictability depended on mean environmental conditions. This indicates that integrating differences in environmental sensitivity, and changes in averages and the predictability of climatic variables will be key to understand whether species are able to cope with the current climatic change.
Masó, G. & Ozgul, A. & Fitze, P.S. (2020) -
Global climate change is leading to decreased climatic predictability. Theoretical work indicates that changes in the climate’s intrinsic predictability will affect population dynamics and extinction, but experimental evidence is scarce. Here, we experimentally tested whether differences in intrinsic precipitation predictability affect population dynamics of the European common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) by simulating more predictable (MP) and less predictable (LP) precipitation in 12 seminatural populations over 3 years and measuring different vital rates. A seasonal age-structured matrix model was parametrized to assess treatment effects on vital rates and asymptotic population growth (λ). There was a nonsignificant trend for survival being higher in MP than in LP precipitation, and no differences existed in reproductive rates. Small nonsignificant survival differences in adults explained changes in λ, and survival differences among age classes were in line with predictions from cohort resonance. As a result, λ was significantly higher in MP than in LP precipitation. This experimentally shows that small effects have major consequences on λ, that forecasted decreases in precipitation predictability are likely to exacerbate the current rate of population decline and extinction, and that stage-structured matrix models are required to unravel the aftermath of climate change.
Masó, G. & Vicente-Sastre, D. & Fitze, P.S. (2022) -
1. Ornamental coloration is frequently an honest signal of quality associated with sexual selection. While changes in average environmental conditions affect carotenoid- and melanin-based coloration, no evidence exists that changes in intrinsic environmental predictability affect coloration. 2. Here we experimentally manipulated the intrinsic predictability of precipitation in semi-natural populations of common lizards Zootoca vivipara and tested ist effect on ornamental coloration and reproduction of adult males. 3. Less predictable precipitation decreased hue of carotenoid-based coloration and the extent of melanin-based coloration. Hue was positively correlated and the extent of melanin-based coloration was negatively correlated with the male`s number of confirmed mate partners. 4. Treatment effects on hue were associated with reduced, and treatment effects on the extent of melanin-based coloration with increased access to females, in line with differential effects on sexual selection. 5. Neither survival nor reproductive success of adult males significantly differed among predictability treatments, suggesting that negative effects on reproduction caused by changes in carotenoid-based coloration may have been compensated by changes in melanin-based coloration. 6. The results also showed that ornamentation, rather than reproduction and survival of adult males, was affected by less favourable conditions. Together with previous results, this suggests that coloration might be more sensitive to changes in environmental conditions than direct fitness proxies.
Masoudian, F. & Hiati, V. & Shiravi, A. (2023) -
With its special ecological zones and various habitats, Iran shows a considerable variety of reptiles, among which the largest variety is related to lizards. The purpose of this study is to investigate the lizard fauna of the Dodangeh Wildlife Sanctuary in Mazandaran province. With an area of 15,673 hectares, DWR is located about 95 kilometers southeast of Sari, Mazandaran. Samples were collected and analyzed from April 2017 to the end of November 2017, and their metric and meristic traits were investigated. In this research, 54 lizard samples were collected. In total, seven lizard species from seven genera and five families, including Paralaudakia caucasia in the Agamidae, Anguis colchica, and Pseudopus apodus in the Anguidae, Tenuidactylus caspius in the Gekkonidae, Ablepharus pannonicus in the Sincidae, Darevskia caspica and Lacerta strigata in the Lacertidae family were identified. The Lacertidae had the most abundance among the families. Among the species, Darevskia caspica showed the highest frequency (24%) and Anguis colchica showed the lowest frequency (6%). Also, the images and key identification of species of the Dodangeh Wildlife Sanctuary were prepared. Considering the increasing development of human activities in the study area, the conservation value of lizards needs more attention. subspecies complexes is suggested.
Masroor, R. (2012) -
Masroor, R. & Khan, M.A. & Nadeem, M.S. & Amir, S.A. & Khisroon, M. & Jablonski, D. (2022) -
Based on newly provided morphological and previously published genetic data, we describe two new distinctive sympatric lacertid lizards of the genus Eremias (subgenus Aspidorhinus) from the arid mountains of northwestern Balochistan Province, Pakistan. The new species, Eremias killasaifullahi sp. nov. and Eremias rafiqi sp. nov. are distinguished from all other species of the subgenus Aspidorhinus (E. afghanistanica, E. fahimii, E. isfahanica, E. kopetdaghica, E. lalezharica, E. montana, E. nikolskii, E. papenfussi, E. persica, E. regeli, E. roborowskii, E. strauchi, E. suphani, and E. velox) by unique morphological characters and genetic differentiation. In the molecular phylogeny of Aspidorhinus, both new taxa are well-supported lineages differentiated from other species of this subgenus by uncorrected p distances from 8.5% to 21.6%, respectively. Both new species belong to E. persica complex where E. rafiqi sp. nov. is partly similar in dorsal color pattern to E. persica but can be distinguished from this species by unique meristic and morphometric characters. Eremias rafiqi sp. nov. is found in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and eastern Iran. Eremias killasaifullahi sp. nov. can be differentiated from E. persica by its distant distribution, dorsal color and pattern, smaller size, and less number of gulars and ventral scales. Eremias killasaifullahi sp. nov. is only known from the type locality and represents the local microendemism, along with other endemic species of reptiles reported from this part of Pakistan. We, however, expect that E. killasaifullahi sp. nov. could have a broader range in northwestern Pakistan and southeastern Afghanistan, which should be an object of following investigations. Our data show that remote areas between Hindu Kush Mountains and Indus River need attention as they most probably represent possible sources of genetic and species diversity in the region.
Masroor, R. & Khisroon, M. & Khan, M.A. & Jablonski, D. (2020) -
A new, morphologically distinctive lacertid lizard of the genus Eremias (Rhabderemias) is described from the arid mountains of northwestern Balochistan Province in Pakistan. Eremias kakari sp. nov. has an isolated distribution and can be easily distinguished from all other species of mainly desert subgenus Rhabderemias (E. andersoni, E. cholistanica, E. fasciata, E. lineolata, E. pleskei, E. scripta, E. vermiculata). Apart from other differences, E. kakari sp. nov. can be distinguished from geographically close members of the subgenus Rhabderemias (E. cholistanica, E. fasciata, and E. scripta) by having a single row of subdigital lamellae and a complete row of lateral scales and hence three scales around the penultimate phalanx of 4th toe. The new species is morphologically (dorsal pattern) very similar to E. fasciata but can be distinguished from this species for having 22–26 subdigital lamellae under 4th toe, 48–55 dorsal scales across midbody, ventrals in 11–14 oblique longitudinal series across the belly, 17–21 femoral pores and 17–21 scales in the 9th–10th annulus posterior to the postcloacal granules. The new species is currently known only from the type locality situated in the Toba Kakar Range, near to Tanishpa village. However, we expect that Eremias kakari sp. nov. would have a broader range in northwestern Pakistan and southeastern Afghanistan. An identification key for the Pakistani Eremias, together with other remarks to the new species, is presented.
Massa, B. & Palma, M.G. di (1988) -
Reptiles, Amphibians and terrestrial Birds from the circum Sicilian Islands -- The study of the number of terrestrial bird species from the circum Sicilian Islands allowed to note a mean density (species/ln of area) of 4,45. This value increase with the surface in the Mediterranean islands (12,2 for the Island of Elba and 19,5 for Sicily, Sardinia and Corsica). The computation of the linear regression between In-area and In-species gives a slope around 0,26 but the corelation is poor r = 0.51). The subdivision of the island into two large groups (Archipelago of Eolie = 7 islands; and all the others, Egadi, Ustica. Pantelleria and Pelagia = 7 islands) gives a better correlation (r = 0,9 and 0,62). This probably depends on certain variables that are taken in consideration here. The altitude is not an important variable (r = 0,39) but the isolation degree and the distance from the continent are importants (r =-0,60 and r = -0,61). but the highest correlation is obtained between the number of species and the habitat’s diversity (r = 0,80). This is confirmed by the analysis of similarities between the islands. Many islands have not yet reached species saturation as can be seen from the actual exploration confronted to that of the authors. The study of the number of species of Amphibians and Reptiles does not give any of the correlations found for the terrestrial birds. Il can thus be retained that these taxa quickly reach saturation and that, given the low number of colonizing species, the relation between area and species is hardly relevant. These are probably populations that are not in equilibrium.
Massa, G. (2013) -
Massa, R. (2021) -
Massary, J.C. de & Bour, R. & Cheylan, M. & Crochet, P.-A. & Dewynter, M. & Geniez, P. & Ineich, I. & Ohler, A. & Vidal, N. & Lescure, J. (2019) -
A new taxonomic checklist is established for the Amphibians and non-avian Sauropsids (= “Reptiles”) of France. It takes into account the most recent publications. In addition to zoological scientific names, a French scientific name is attributed to each taxon.
Massey, J. & Al Suwailem, A. (2022) -
As part of the conservation efforts in the northern Red Sea development areas, the nests of Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) have been moved, out of nesting season, to relocate them away from areas where they would be damaged or disturbed by development. During these operations, a significant association with these structures and lizard species has been identified. The implications are threefold. Primarily, the nests may provide an important refuge habitat for these species on the uninhabited islands in the Red Sea. Secondly, as Osprey nests are avoided during surveys to ensure the species is not disturbed, there is a potential under reporting of the populations of small reptile species on the islands. This in turn has implications for wider population assessments and their consideration in the environmental impact assessment process. Thirdly, the potentially high numbers of Stenodactylus doriae and Acanthodactylus sp (likely A. opheodurus) in close proximity or a potentially loose colony structure in the nests is at odds with the published and accepted behavioural norm of these usually territorial species. Records are from initial observations only and further more structured research is required. Further investigation into this association can only be recorded on an opportunistic approach, as Osprey nests (and particularly active nests) should only be disturbed where all other avoidance mitigation has been exhausted.
Massot, M. (1987) -
Massot, M. (1992) -
Most of the existing empirical studies on dispersal have shown intraspecific differences between young and adults, and between males and females. However, they concern mostly birds and mammals, and very little is known about reptiles. This paper will present some preliminary results from a study on dispersal in the common lizard. It will focus on differences in age and sex which are probably two major components of the dispersal pattern. If the common lizard is similar to most vertebrates, dispersal should involve mainly young individuals. Differences between sexes are less easy to predict as shown by the opposite trends observed in birds and mammals (GREENWOOD 1980). In birds, females are more likely to disperse, while in mammals, there is a male bias in dispersal. GREENWOOD argued that sex differences in reproduction costs and benefits due to mating system could explain this difference between birds and mammals. If males compete for resources to attract females (as in most birds), males should be philopatric, and females should disperse. If females compete for resources for reproduction (as in most mammals), they should be the philopatric sex. In the common lizard, the wider movements of males during the mating period is probablyrelated to their search for mates (HEULIN 1984): males seem to com- pete directy for females. In females, reproduction appears to be influenced by density (MASSOT et al. in press): females are likely to compete for reproductive resources. As males seem less dependent on local resources, one should expect, on the basis of competition, a male bias in dispersal.
Massot, M. (2008) -
Massot, M. & Aragón, P. (2013) -
Environmental variations are usually thought to require a nonanecdotal intensity or duration to have major effects on individuals and evolutionary outputs. However, environmental variations of weak intensity and short duration could be of major importance when they influence key targets or critical stages. Because conditions experienced early in life can be critical determinants of life history trajectories [1 and 2], especially early nutrition [3, 4 and 5], we tested this hypothesis by experimentally manipulating the first meal of life in the lizard Zootoca vivipara. The species is a live-bearing lizard without parental care, and it consumes small arthropods. Neonates face a great challenge in acquiring their first meal, as is the case in many species that develop skills through learning to capture live prey [6]. We show that this single meal had an overall and long-lasting impact. Effects on dispersal arose within 10 days, and we found effects 1–2 months later on growth, recapture probability, and juvenile survival. Interestingly, we detected effects on reproduction up to 2 years later. Such a “phenotypic resonance” reveals that the influence of small and ephemeral events should not be neglected by evolutionary biologists.
Massot, M. & Clobert, J. (1999) -
Massot, M. & Clobert, J. & Lecomte, J. & Barbault,R. (1994) -
1. Settlement in a new environment is a key phase in effective dispersal. We investigated this phase in the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara Jacquin) by an experimental introduction of known individuals. 2. Introducing lizards in an already occupied environment revealed a prior-residence advantage and some differences in the ability of individuals to face a new environment under conditions of high intraspecific competition. 3. Transplanted individuals (TI) died in larger numbers than resident ones (RI) immediately after the introduction, except for juveniles. this prior-residence advantage could arise from the difference of familiarity with the local environment or from a dominant behaviour of RI on TI. 4. TI which survived the first winter after the introduction survived better than RI afterwards. However, surviving TI females paid a cost in their reproduction. 5. Surviving TI were not a random subset of the initial sample: smaller adult males and leaner adult females were selected. These selective responses arose from the transplantation since they were not observed in non-manipulated populations. 6. A comparison of characteristics between natural transient or immigrant individuals and TI survivors revealed: (i) TI male and yearling survivors may have been transients or immigrants in their site of origin; (ii) TI adult female survivors were not transients nor immigrants in their site of origin. The latter result questions the use of introduction experiments to test dispersal ability. Strictly, introduction experiments only test settlement ability.
Massot, M. & Clobert, J. & Montes-Poloni, L. & Haussy, C. & Cubo, J. & Meylan, S. (2011) -
1. Integrative studies on ageing patterns in multiple traits of organisms are challenging and rare in free-living populations. However, developing integrative approaches could prove useful to understanding ageing patterns as causes of age variations are diverse, with conflicting or related actions. Accordingly, we investigated age variation of multiple aspects in the common lizard Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara. 2. In a wild population of common lizards, we studied five fitness components, three physiological traits (cell-mediated immunity, corticosterone level, resting metabolic rate), and controlled for individual and environmental heterogeneities. To quantify ageing patterns in fitness, we used individual-based data collected over 14 years (18 684 captures, 892 reproductive events). 3. Ageing patterns were found in multiple aspects. They provided evidence for female maturation early in adulthood (access to reproduction, litter size), followed by senescence in female reproduction (litter success) and survival. In parallel to senescence, a pattern of terminal investment enhanced offspring quality (offspring body size, offspring corpulence, litter success). Ageing patterns involved physiology with higher metabolic rate and T cell-mediated immune response in old females. 4. Several ageing patterns were dependent on environmental and individual characteristics (habitat, year, sex, body size). Interestingly, senescence occurred only in females with a high reproductive effort early in life. Rarely showed, this trade-off between early and late-life performances is expected under the antagonistic pleiotropy and disposable soma theories of senescence. 5. Overall, this study emphasizes the interest of integrative studies to investigate the multifaceted process of ageing.
Massot, M. & Legendre, S. & Fédérici, P. & Clobert, J. (2017) -
The most documented response of organisms to climate warming is a change in the average timing of seasonal activities (phenology). Although we know that these average changes can differ among species and populations, we do not know whether climate warming impacts within-population variation in phenology. Using data from five study sites collected during a 13-year survey, we found that the increase in spring temperatures is associated with a reproductive advance of 10 days in natural populations of common lizards (Zootoca vivipara). Interestingly, we show a correlated loss of variation in reproductive dates within populations. As illustrated by a model, this shortening of the reproductive period can have significant negative effects on population dynamics. Consequently, we encourage tests in other species to assess the generality of decreased variation in phenological responses to climate change.
Massot, S. & Clobert, J. & Pilorge, T. & Lecomte, J. & Barbault, R. (1992) -
Density dependence plays an important role in the regulation of most populations. Descriptive studies provide only limited evidence, while density manipulations are thought to be a more powerful tool. Here, we describe such a manipulation. We experimentally analyzed demographic responses to changes in density in common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) populations. Two neighboring sites were studied from 1986 to 1988. At the end of the first year, density was artificially decreased at one site and increased at the other. The evolution of demographic parameters over time (before and after manipulation) was compared between the two sites. We found that: (1) density in each age and sex class quickly converged to pre-experimental values at both sites; (2) survival rates (introduced individuals excluded) were unchanged, except that juvenile mortality was positively related to density; (3) emigration rates remained low and did not seem to be influenced by density, while immigration rates were negatively influenced by density; (4) the proportion of young reproductive females was negatively influenced by density; (5) body length and growth rate were negatively influenced by sensitivity only in yearlings, and at least in females, no catchup on growth is apparently possible; no difference in reserve storage was found; and (6) female reproduction was modified by the manipulation through clutch size and hatching success, which were negatively influenced by density; however, no difference was detected for hatching date, number of abortive (clear) eggs, prenatal mortality, reproductive investment, and body mass of live neonates. Rapid density readjustments were mostly explained by immigration into the site where density was decreased, and by high mortality of introduced individuals and of native juveniles where density was increased. Other parameters that were influenced by the manipulation could only have induced delayed effects on population density. Different age and sex classes showed different responses to density. These responses indicate that density dependence plays a key role in shaping the demography of this lizard species.
Masterson, G.P.R. & Koen, D. & Toit, L. du & Horn, N. (2020) -
Masterson, G.P.R. & Maritz, B. & Mackay, D. & Alexander, G.J. (2009) -
Habitat transfonnation is the primary anthropogenic threat to global biodiversity. Fragmentation of reptile populations following habitat transfonnation within a landscape can lead to the extirpation of species. We investigated the effects of land-use on the species richness and abundance of reptile assemblages in three habitat types (two natural and one modified) in the grasslands of Gauteng, South Africa. Using trap arrays, we surveyed reptiles in primary grassland with little or no rock cover, primary grassland with large quartzite outcrops and scattered rocks, and secondary grasslands that were historically ploughed and cropped. We measured vegetation height and vegetation cover at these same localities. We caught significantly fewer reptile species in the historically cultivated sites than in either of the two natural habitat types. Differences in the reptile assemblage of each habitat type were not explained by either the spatial location or the vegetation structure of our trap sites but were well explained by the sites` habitat type. Estimates of total species richness indicated that we were able to adequately sample the reptile assemblages in the three habitat types, further supporting our observation of reduced species richness in the secondary grasslands. We infer that habitat transfonnation associated with cultivation e.g., rock removal, has had a detectable, negative impact on the species richness and composition of the local reptile assemblages. We recommend that land-use planning in Gauteng emphasise the need for areas of inter-connected, untransfonned habitat in order to mitigate the negative impacts of habitat transfonnation on the local reptile diversity.
Mastropasqua, F. & Liuzzi, C. (2021) -
We present the Atlas of Amphibians and Reptiles of SCI Murgia Alta, financed by the Alta Murgia National Park Authority. Mediterranean steppe and crops on thin and rocky soils, at altitudes between about 200 m and 679 m (Monte Caccia) characterize the site, located in the central Apulia (SE Italy). For Atlas realization, Site territory has been divided in UTM 5x5 km grid; the grid thus obtained consists of 74 quadrants, 6 of them only partially (<50% of the surface) include in the Site. We analyze 2125 records, referring to the period 2010-2016, of which 1421 collected during the Atlas project referable to the 2015-16 period only. We found 21 species (6 Amphibians and 15 Reptiles), while two species reported in bibliography (Bombina pachypus and Emys orbicularis) were not detected. The most widespread species, found in more than 50% of the 5x5 km UTM squares, are Podarcis siculus, Hierophis viridiflavus, Lacerta bilineata, Pelophylax sp. and Bufotes balearicus, while the more localized Hyla intermedia, Hemidactylus turcicus, Zamenis situla, Triturus carnifex and Natrix tessellata.
Mastropasqua, F. & Liuzzi, C. & Frassanito, A.G. (2016) -
Masucci, M. & D’Aniello, B. & Lela, L. & Ciarcia, G. & Rastogi, R.K. (1992) -
The immunohistochemical presence and the distribution pattern of four different molecular forms of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) were investigated in the brain of both sexes of the lizard, Podarcis s. sicula. Animals used in this study were collected in November and April, representing two different periods of the reproductive cycle. The antisera used were those raised against synthetic mammalian GnRH, chicken GnRH-I and II, and salmon GnRH. Strong immunoreaction was obtained for salmon, chicken-I, and chicken-II GnRHs, whereas a very weak reaction was seen for the mammalian form of GnRH. The distribution of immunoreactive-GnRH perikarya and fibers did not vary with the sex, the reproductive condition of the animals, or the antiserum used. Also, the intensity of immunoreaction with any one antiserum was quite similar in both periods of the year and in all brains examined. The immunoreactive perikarya was seen as two distinct groups, one in the mesencephalon and the other in the infundibulum. Immunoreactive fiber endings were seen in the telencephalon, the optic tectum, the anterior preoptic area, the median eminence, the central grey matter, the rhombencephalon, and the cerebellum. No immunoreactive perikarya were seen in the telencephalon or the anterior preoptic area.
Matechou, E. & McCrea, R.S. & Morgan, B.J.T. & Nash, D.J. & Griffiths, R.A. (2016) -
Individuals of protected species, such as amphibians and reptiles, often need to be removed from sites before development commences. Usually, the population is considered to be closed. All individuals are assumed to i) be present and available for detection at the start of the study period and ii) remain at the site until the end of the study, unless they are detected. However, the assumption of population closure is not always valid. We present new removal models which allow for population renewal through birth and/or immigration, and population depletion through sampling as well as through death/emigration. When appropriate, productivity may be estimated and a Bayesian approach allows the estimation of the probability of total population depletion. We demonstrate the performance of the models using data on common lizards, Zootoca vivipara, and great crested newts, Triturus cristatus.
Mateo Miras, J.A. & Afonso, O.M. & Geniez, P. (2007) -
Mateo Miras, J.A. & Cheylan, M. & Nouira, S. & Joger, U. & Sa-Sousa, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2009) -
Mateo Miras, J.A. & El Mouden, E.H. & Pleguezuelos, J. & Slimani, T. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2009) -
Mateo Miras, J.A. & Pérez-Mellado, V (2005) -
Mateo, J.A. (1988) -
Mateo, J.A. (1990) -
Mateo, J.A. (1993) -
Mateo, J.A. (1997) -
Mateo, J.A. (2001) -
Mateo, J.A. (2002) -
Mateo, J.A. (2004) -
Mateo, J.A. (2006) -
Mateo, J.A. (2007) -
Mateo, J.A. (2008) -
Mateo, J.A. (2009) -
Mateo, J.A. (2011) -
Mateo, J.A. (2014) -
Mateo, J.A. (2015) -
La mayor parte de los anfibios y reptiles que conforman las comunidades de Baleares ha sido introducida. Desde que se iniciara la colonización humana del archipiélago muchas especies se han ido incorporando poco a poco, pero en los últimos 25 años el número de naturalizaciones se ha disparado. La exploración llevada a cabo en un vivero de Mallorca ha permitido hacer un rápido repaso a todas esas introducciones.
Mateo, J.A. & Afonso, Ó.M. (2009) -
Mateo, J.A. & Ayres, C. & López-Jurado, L.F. (2011) -
Mateo, J.A. & Barone, R. & Hernández-Acosta, C.N. & López-Jurado, L.F. (2020) -
Mateo, J.A. & Cano, J. (1991) -
Karyotype and NOR position of three Lacertid species (Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Lacerta schreiberi and Lacerta perspicillata), not estudied yet, are made known in this paper. In the three of them it is observed that 2n = 38 and NF = 38, with 36 acrocentric macrochromosomes and 2 microchromosomes. Neither sexual nor other type variation have been observed. In the three species the only pair of NOR is situated in telomeric position of the 6th chromosomic pair.
Mateo, J.A. & Castanet, J. (1994) -
Mateo, J.A. & Castroviejo, J. (1991) -
Mateo, J.A. & Cheylan, M. (1997) -
Mateo, J.A. & Crochet, P.-A. & Afonso, O.M. (2011) -
Mateo, J.A. & Cuadrado, M. (2001) -
Mateo, J.A. & Garcia-Márquez, M. (2002) -
Mateo, J.A. & Garcia-Marquez, M. & Hernández-Acosta, C.N. & López-Jurado, L.F. (2018) -
Mateo, J.A. & Garcia-Márquez, M. & López-Jurado, L.F. & Barahona, F. (2001) -
Mateo, J.A. & Garcia-Márquez, M. & López-Jurado, L.F. & Silva, J.L. (1999) -
Mateo, J.A. & Geniez, P. & Veiret, P. & López Jurado, L.E. (2022) -
Mateo, J.A. & López Jurado, L.F. (1992) -
The dentition of Gallotia stehlini from one extant and two subfossil populations dated as 4000 and 2000 years before present was studied. Body measurements were similar in the two subfossil populations, but much greater than the largest sizes observed today in G. stehlini. The morphology of the dental cusps in this G. stehlini differs greatly from that of other Lacertidae, including other congeneric Canarian species; this has been connected with a vegetarian diet. A decrease in heterodonty with size of the animal is also seen which contrasts strongly with the models observed in the Mediterranean lacertid lizards.
Mateo, J.A. & López Jurado, L.F. (1994) -
Mateo, J.A. & López-Jurado, L.F. (1997) -
Mateo, J.A. & López-Jurado, L.F. (1999) -
Mateo, J.A. & López-Jurado, L.F. & Cano, J. & Guillaume, C.P. (1999) -
Mateo, J.A. & López-Jurado, L.F. & Garcia-Márquez, M. (1999) -
In the recent bibliography of lizards on El Hierro, there have been hypotheses advanced as to the co-existence of three species on the island up until fairly recent times: Gallotia caesaris, G. simonyi and G. goliath. According to the bibliography, these three species have been traced thanks to their dentary morphology, on the number of teeth, the number of series of teeth in the pterigoids and the morphology of the skull. The comparative analysis of the various sub-fossil remains of lizards found in El Hierro has allowed us to come to the conclusion that although these characteristics do allow us to differentiate G. caesaris from other larger lizards, none of these parameters allow us to establish clearly the existence of the other two species proposed. The study of the correlation between age and size of the sub-fossils shows linear growth with age where the largest sized lizards (over 400 mm total length) were approximately 50 years old. This would appear to suggest that only species actually co-existed on the island of El Hierro: Gallotia caesaris and G. simonyi. The latter has undergone an acute process of dwarfing mainly due to the increased death rate of adult specimens since the arrival of Man. This fact may be the origin of the near-extinction of the species.
Mateo, J.A. & López-Jurado, L.F. & Guillaume, C.P. (1996) -
Nous avons étudié la variabilité protéinique et morphologique de lézards ocellés appartenant à différentes populations européennes et africaines de ce complexe d`espèces de la Méditerranée occidentale. Les lézards ocellés d`Europe (Lacerta lepida ssp. lepida, iberica, nevadensis) sont très variables pour la forme du corps, la pholidose, la couleur et la dentition dans l`ensemble de leur aire de distribution étendue latitudinalement, mais ils sont relativement peu différenciés par l`électrophorèse. A l`inverse, les lézards ocellés africains ne sont pas variables, quant à leur pholidose, le long de leur aire de distribution - une étroite bande entre la mer Méditerranée et le Sahara, coupée en 2 par la très aride vallée de la Moulouya -, mais l`électrophorèse révèle des distances importantes entre les populations algéro-tunisienne (Lacerta pater) et celles du Maroc (Lacerta tangitana [combinaison nouvelle]). Ces différences sont du même ordre de grandeur que celles existant entre les populations marocaines et européennes, taxons spécifiques bien différenciés. Ce type de répartition, avec des espèces séparées en péninsule Ibérique, dans les montagnes marocaines, et dans le Tell algéro-tunisien, se retrouve dans d`autres complexes et suggère l`existence d`une barrière géographique importante entre l`est et l`ouest du Maghreb à l`époque de l`ouverture du détroit de Gibraltar.
Mateo, J.A. & Mayol, J. & Oliver, J.A. (2010) -
The arrival to the Balearic Islands of new species proceeding from the Iberian Peninsula and other peri-mediterrnean regions supposes a potential threat for the survival of the two endemic lacertids. The accession and rapid expansion of Hemorrhois hippocrepis and Rhinechis scalaris in Ibiza, an island without snakes until a few years ago, might already be affecting the populations of Podarcis pytiusensis. The populations of Podarcis lilfordi on Cabrera and the other islets sur- rounding Majorca might equally in turn be affected by Podarcis siculus, another lacertid species recently introduced in Mallorca.
Mateo, J.A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2002) -
Mateo, J.A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2000) -
Mateo, J.A. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2015) -
Cannibalism is not rare among animals, and particularly in reptiles it is favored by a strong ontogenetic shift in body size and generalized carnivore habits. We looked for evidence of this behavior in a medium-sized lizard, endemic of oceanic islands (Canary Islands), with a high prevalence of a parasite transmitted by cannibalism. Conspecific predation appeared in this lizard, with a rather low incidence (0.76% of fecal pellets included conspecifics), although the analysis of a very large sample (n- 11,651 pellets) indicated ontogenetic, sexual, and seasonal patterns of such predation. Only the largest individuals were cannibal, invariably males, which only depredated immature individuals, almost exclusively during the post-hatching period (summer and autumn). Together with other natural-history traits already known for the species (e.g., high density, low breeding output, large offspring), cannibalism adds further evidence that this lizard fits the island syndrome.
Mateo, J.A. & Santana, A. & Geniez, P. (2004) -
Mateo, J.A. & Silva, J.L. & Afonso, O. (2003) -
Mateos, I. & Lizana, M. (2010) -
Matero, J.A. (2015) -
Mathieu, M.A. (1843) -
Mathon, C.-C. (1978) -
Mathon, C.C. & Roche, E. (1982) -
Matias, R. & Rebelo, R. & Granadeiro, J.P. & Catry, P. (2009) -
Reptiles are uncommon as seabird predators on islands. While conducting a study on Cory`s Shearwaters (Calonectris diomedea) on Selvagem Grande, North Atlantic, incidental observations during 2006 early hatching period indicated that some chicks were being killed by Madeiran Wall Lizards (Teira dugesii). In the same year and in 2007, the phenomenon was further examined and samples of 78 and 153 nests, respectively, were followed. Also, non-systematic visits were made to other nests. A total of 40 episodes of lizards depredating Cory`s Shearwaters hatchlings was recorded. This hitherto unknown source of predation for this shearwater accounted for the failure of four (5.1%) study nests in 2006 and eight (5.2%) study nests in 2007. All recorded predation cases took place either during or shortly after hatching. Also, non-systematic observations indicated that three other species of burrowing petrels (Bulwer`s Petrel, Bulweria bulwerii; Madeiran Storm-petrel, Oceanodroma castro, White-faced Storm-petrel, Pelagodroma marina) were preyed upon by Madeiran Wall Lizards. Predation by lizards is apparently a phenomenon of lesser concern for Cory`s Shearwaters but the potentially higher impact over the smaller petrel species is not known.
Matos, A. & Alves, P. (2001) -
Matos, A. de (1988) -
Matos, A. de (2000) -
Matos, A. de (2003) -
Matos, C. (2012) -
Matschie (1892) -
Matschie (1893) -
Matschie, G.F.P. (1891) -
Matsubara, K. & Uno, Y. & Srikulnath, K. & Matsuda, Y. & Miller, E. & Olsson, M. (2015) -
Telomeres are repeat (TTAGGG)n sequences that form terminal ends of chromosomes and have several functions, such as protecting the coding DNA from erosion at mitosis. Due to chromosomal rearrangements through evolutionary history (e.g., inversions and fusions), telomeric sequences are also found between the centromere and the terminal ends (i.e., at interstitial telomeric sites, ITSs). ITS telomere sequences have been implicated in heritable disease caused by genomic instability of ITS polymorphic variants, both with respect to copy number and sequence. In the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), we have shown that telomere length is predictive of lifetime fitness in females but not males. To assess whether this sex specific fitness effect could be traced to ITSs differences, we mapped (TTAGGG)n sequences using fluorescence in situ hybridization in fibroblast cells cultured from 4 specimens of known sex. No ITSs could be found on autosomes in either sex. However, females have heterogametic sex chromosomes in sand lizards (ZW, 2n = 38) and the female W chromosome showed degeneration and remarkable (TTAGGG)n amplification, which was absent in the Z chromosomes. This work warrants further research on sex chromosome content, in particular of the degenerate W chromosome, and links to female fitness in sand lizards.
Matteini, R. & Molino, F. (1999) -
Matthäus, L. (2015) -
Matthey, R. (1928) -
Conclusions d’ordre technique 1. Une fixation médiocre n’est pas immédiatement identifiable comme telle. 2. Un liquide fixateur donné peut agirélectivement sur les différentes catégories de cinèses, fixant très bien celles-ci, très mal celles-là. 3. Lorsque la fixation est médiocre, les chromosomes ont souvent tendance à fusionner deux par deux; cetter régularité dans l’erreur rend celle-ci difficile à reconnaître. II. Conclusions générales 1. Le cycle spermatogénétique se déroule conformément aux données classiques. Il n’y a pas de cycle saisonnier bien net, mais ralentissement pendant la mauvaise saison. 2. Les nombres chromosomiaux du Lézard sont: 38 pour le nombre diploïde, 19 pour l’haploïde. 3. A l’échelle morphologique, il n’y a pas de digamétie mâle, tous les spermatozoïdes sont identiques; la formule chromosomiale est probablement 36+2 X (36+X+Y?). 4. Dans ce cas nous devons nous attendre à trouver chez la femelle 36+X+Y. 5. On ne rencontre pas chez les Lézards de macro- et de microchromosomes. Le schéma dePainter ne s’applique pas à ces animaux; ce schéma n’est pas général pour les Reptiles.
Matthey, R. (1929) -
Matthey, R. (1934) -
Matthey, R. (1939) -
Matthiä, W. (1912) -
Mattison, C. (1977) -
Mattison, C. (1980) -
Three subspecies of P. lilfordi were observed in their natural habitats. Some fieldnotes and notes on behaviour in captivity are given. Finally it is stated that these three subspecies appear not to be endangered.
Mattison, C. (1982) -
Mattison, C. (1991) -
Matur, F. & Candan, K. & Ilgaz, C. & Tok, C.V. & Sözen, M. & Cogal, M. & Yakin, B.Y. & Caynak, E.Y. & Kumlutas, Y. (2022) -
It is possible that the origin of Podarcis siculus, which was introduced to Turkey by humans, is based on two different source populations or that the samples introduced to different geographies may differ at the subspecies level. The rapid evolutionary processes observed in island species can similarly occur in introduced and isolated populations. In this study Tissues were taken from samples obtained from Zonguldak, Istanbul and Samsun. mtDNA gene sequences were obtained and combined with Podarcis siculus samples from sequences downloaded from Genbank. Phylogenetic analyzes and species delimitation analyzes were executed. Accordingly results, the specimens obtained from Turkey were grouped into two different haplotypes, similar to their geographic isolation. It has been observed that these groups are different resource groups. Species delimination analyzes show that the differentiation of these haplotypes may be at the subspecies level.
Matuschka, F.-R. (1988) -
Matuschka, F.-R. (1992) -
Matuschka, F.-R. & Bannert, B. (1987) -
In search for the final host of Sarcocystis gallotiae, sarcocysts of naturally infected Canarian lizards, Gallotia galloti, were fed to vertebrate predators of the lizard. Repeated transmission experiments remained negative. Routine check of the feces of the wild G. galloti revealed shedding of sporocysts. The sporocysts were administered to small vertebrates, which may function as prey for G. galloti. The transmission experiments remained negative. The observation of a high intraspecific aggression of G. galloti, including cannibalism and autotomy, seemed to support the hypothesis that this behavior might be the base of a an unexpected predator-prey relationship. Sarcocysts of S. gallotiae, fed to two laboratory-bred G. galloti resulted in excretion of sporulated sporocysts measuring 9.7 (9.2–12.2)×7.7 (6.6–9.2) Μm. Oral inoculation of two laboratory-bred G. galloti with experimentally gained sporocysts, led to the development of sarcocysts of 150–200 Μm in length and 80–110 Μm in width in the musculature of the lizards 153 days p.i. The sarcocysts were identified as S. gallotiae by light and electron microscopy. In epithelial cells of the intestine of G. galloti, which had experimentally been infected with sarcocysts of S. gallotiae, stages of gamogony and sporogony were found. We suggest that the life cycle of S. gallotiae is monoxenous and not obligatorily heteroxenous. The genus Sarcocystis seems to be more flexible in its biologic adaptability to utilize autotomy and cannibalism for completing its cycle than had heretofore been assumed.
Matuschka, F.-R. & Bannert, B. (1989) -
The transmission of Sarcocystis species via cannibalism seems to be common among lizards of the genus Gallotia that are endemic to the Canary Islands. Gran Canarian giant lizards, Gallotia stehlini, were screened for the presence of sarcosporidian parasites. Sarcocysts, measuring 90-400 µm in length and 60-160 µm in width, were found in the musculature of the lizards` tails. In their feces the lizards passed sporocysts of 8.5(8.2-9.4) x 6.5(5.9-7.0) µm. A series of laboratory infections was carried out to shed light on the life cycle of Sarcocystis stehlinii n. sp., proving it to be another dihomoxenous Sarcocystis species.
Matuschka, F.-R. & Mehlhorn, H. (1984) -
Matuschka, F.R. & Fischer, P. & Heiler, M. & Richter, D. & Spielman, A. (1992) -
The abundance of spirochete-infected Ixodes ricinus ticks naturally derived from endemic rodents was compared to identify the reservoir hosts of the agent of Lyme disease at a series of enzootic sites in Central Europe. Black-striped mice appear to be the most important rodent host for the tick and infect more ticks with Borrelia burgdorferi than do other mice and voles tested. Although rodents infect about half of the ticks that feed on them, lizards infect none. These spirochete-incompetent hosts dilute the force of transmission because many nymphal ticks feed on them. Older male hosts are more heavily infested by subadult ticks than are younger or female hosts. The intensity of transmission of the agent of Lyme disease at particular Central European sites appears to correlate directly with the presence of black-striped mice and inversely with that of lizards.
Matveev, A.S. & Kukushkin, O.V. & Sokolov, L.V. (2013) -
In 2012 two local populations were discovered in the extreme south-west of Odessa Province P. muralis: in the Reni Merchant Sea Port and on the western shore of Lake Cahul. The species inhabits the industrial environments at a small distance from natural reservoires. The finds of P. muralis in more than one locality, along with a high population density and abundance of young individuals, suggests the stability of populations of the species in the north-eastern limit of its range. An occurence of P. muralis in a commercial port and its preference for anthropogenic habitats indicates the allochthonous nature of its populations. The cause of emergence of P. muralis outside it natural range could be its random delivery by Danube River with the goods from Romania — from Lower Danube Lowland or adjacent Dobrogea. The prognosis of increase of the share of alien species in the herpetofauna of the country was provided.
Матвеев, А.С. & Кукушкин, О.В. & Соколов, Л.В. (2013) -
В 2012 г. на крайнем юго -западе Одесской области выявлены 2 локальных популяции P. muralis: в морском торговом порту г. Рени и на западном берегу озера Кагул. Вид населяет индустриальные ландшафты на небольшом удалении от воды. Находка P. muralis более чем в одном локалитете, наряду с высокой плотностью населения и обилием молодых особей, позволяет предполагать устойчи- вость популяций вида на северо-восточном пределе ареала. Обитание P. muralis в торговом порту и приуроченность вида к антропогенным местообитаниям свидетельствуют об аллохтон- ной природе его популяций. Причиной появления популяций P. muralis за пределами природ- ного ареала мог быть случайный завоз с грузами из Румынии по р. Дунай — из Нижнедунай- ской низменности или Добруджи. Дан прогноз об увеличении доли видов-вселенцев в герпето- фауне страны.
Matveev, A.S. & Sokolov, L.V. & Kukushkin I.V. (2013) -
Matz, G. (1969) -
Maura, M. & Vignoli, L. & Bologna, M.A. & Rugiero, L. & Luiselli, L. (2011) -
The population density of three lacertid lizards (Podarcis sicula, Podarcis muralis, Lacerta viridis) was studied along several transects crossing agro-forest habitats in Mediterranean central Italy. Overall, seven transects, in three different wooded patches, were walked for lizards. Distance sampling (with uniform model design) was applied to the dataset in order to calculate population size, dispersion, and coefficient of variation at each site. In order to detect which factors may influence lizard density, a Generalized Linear Model (GLZ; multinomial distribution and cumulative log link function) was built, with environmental variables and density of predators variables being included in the model as covariates (scale predictor). Density of the three lizard species differed significantly among study sites, evidencing species-specific responses to local patch conditions. None of the environmental variables taken separately in the GLZ model influenced significantly the lizard densities, whereas lizards densities showed species-specific response to the considered environmental variables. The largest species (L. viridis) showed the highest density in the fragment with the most irregular shape and largest wood size, whereas the two smaller Podarcis species presented their highest population density in the site with the smallest wood patch and with a very low snake density. Density of P. sicula was negatively correlated with both the woodland area and Colubridae density, and was positively correlated with woodland shape (i.e. with circularity).
Maurer, M. & Schwartze, M. (2015) -
Maurizii, M.G. & Alibardi, L. & Taddei, C. (2000) -
The cytokeratin (CK) cytoskeleton, previously described by immunofluorescence in the ovarian follicle of Podarcis sicula, at the electron microscope results constituted by bundles of 10 nm thick intermediate filaments containing keratin. These bundles are better evident in the cytoplasm of the pyriform cell apex pointed toward the oocyte surface and mostly in the intercellular bridges connecting fully differentiated pyriform cells to the oocyte. During the differentiation of pyriform cells, the intermediate filament bundles first appear inside the intercellular bridge, when the small follicle cells progressively enlarge after their fusion with the oocyte and assume a morphology of `intermediate` cells. The present study also reports a comparative analysis by immunolabeling, SDS-PAGE, and immunoblotting with anticytokeratins CK8, CK18, and CK19 antibodies of both the ovarian follicle and the intestine of Podarcis sicula. These antibodies, specific to the keratins of monolayered intestinal cells, react also against those expressed in the oocytes of Xenopus laevis. This study shows the presence in the ovarian follicle of this reptile only of keratin forms of homologues to the CK8 and CK18 of mammals and the lack of CK19. The same analysis carried out utilizing AE1 and AE3 antibodies, which recognize most of the acidic and basic keratins in mammals, has shown additional forms of keratins specifically expressed in the ovarian follicle (50 kDa) and in both the examined tissues (49 and 60 kDa). The reported results indicate that in the ovarian follicle of this reptile, keratins have peculiar characteristics that can be explained by the unique structural function of the cytoskeleton in this system.
Maurizii, M.G. & Alibardi, L. & Taddei, C. (2004) -
During most of the previtellogenic oocyte growth, the follicular epithelium of the lizard Podarcis sicula shows a polymorphic structure, due to the presence of different follicle cells. These include small cells which divide and move from the periphery of the follicle to the oocyte surface, intermediate cells which represent an initial step in the process of cell enlargement, and large pyriform cells engaged in the transport of different materials to the oocyte through intercellular bridges. We have studied, by immunolocalization and immunoblotting, the localization of alpha-tubulin and its acetylated form in different follicle cells and in the oocyte during the main steps of ovarian follicle differentiation. Our results indicate that alpha-tubulin is present in all follicle cells at different stages of ovarian follicle differentiation, while its acetylated form is detectable exclusively in the small proliferating and migrating follicle cells. In pyriform cells, alpha-tubulin is localized around the nucleus, extends to the cell apex, and crosses the zona pellucida into the oocyte cortex. The presence of acetylated tubulin in the small follicle cells may be related to the proliferation and/or migration of these cells. The absence of acetylated tubulin form in the cytoplasm of intermediate and pyriform cells can be related to the colocalization of alpha-tubulin with the keratin cytoskeleton in these cells, as detected by confocal microscopy. We have also identified the colocalization of alpha-tubulin with keratin in the cortical region of the oocyte, in particular when the cortex is engaged in the uptake of the yolk proteins.
Maurizii, M.G. & Taddei, C. (1996) -
We report the immunolocalization of intermediate filament proteins (vimentin and cytokeratins) in the previtellogenic ovarian follicle of the lizard Podarcis sicula. Vimentin is present, in accordance with their mesenchymal origin, in all the cells of the polymorphic follicular epithelium (small, intermediate and pyriform). Cytokeratin, absent from the small follicle cells, is present in those cells (intermediate and pyriform) connected to the oocyte by an intercellular bridge. In particular, this protein surrounds the nucleus in the pyriform cells and is mainly localized at the apex adjacent to the oocyte surface; it forms a network, that crosses the zona pellucida through the intercellular bridge and appears to be continuous with a cortical ring of cytokeratin in the oocyte. The presence of a cytokeratin cytoskeleton in the pyriform cells in continuity with that of the oocyte lends support to the previously reported hypothesis that, during oogenesis in Podarcis sicula, somatic cells constitute an integral system with the germ cell and provide for its growth. Preliminary observations indicating the presence of actin and tubulin inside the cytoplasmic bridges connecting the pyriform cells to the oocyte are in agreement with an involvement of these connections in the transfer of cytoplasmic materials.
Maurizii, M.G. & Taddei, C. (2012) -
We analyzed the organization of the microtubular cytoskeleton and the distribution of centrosomes at the different stages of differentiation of the ovarian follicle of the lizard Podarcis sicula by examining immunolabeled α- and γ-tubulins using confocal microscopy. We observed that in the follicular epithelium the differentiation of the nurse pyriform cells is accompanied by a reorganization of the microtubules in the oocyte cortex, changing from a reticular to a radial pattern. Furthermore, these cortical microtubules extend in the cytoplasm of the connected follicle cells through intercellular bridges. Radially oriented microtubules were still more marked in the oocyte cortex during the final stages of oogenesis, when the yolk proteins were incorporated by endocytosis. The nucleation centres of the microtubules (centrosomes) were clearly detectable as γ-tubulin immunolabeled spots in the somatic stromal cells of the germinal bed. A diffuse cytoplasmic immunolabeling together with multiple labeled foci, resembling the desegregation of the centrosomes in early oogenesis of vertebrates and invertebrates, was revealed in the prediplotenic germ cells. In the cytoplasm of growing oocytes, a diffuse labeling of the γ-tubulin antibody was always detectable. In the growing ovarian follicles, immunolabeled spots were detected in the mono-layered follicle cells which surrounded the early oocytes. In follicles with a polymorphic follicular epithelium, only the small follicle cells showed labeled spots. A weak and diffuse labeling was observed in the pyriform cells while in the enlarging intermediate cells the centrosomes degenerated like in the early oocytes. Our observations confirm that in P. sicula most of the oocyte growth is supported by the structural and functional integration of the developing oocyte with the pyriform nurse cells and suggest that their fusion with the oocyte results in an acquirement by these somatic cells of characteristics typical of the germ cells.
Maurizii, N.G. & Cavaliere, V. & Gamberi, C. & Lasko, P. & Gargiulo, G. & Taddei, C. (2013) -
The vasa gene, first identified in Drosophila, is a key determinant for germline formation in eukaryotes. Homologs of vasa have been identified and linked to germline development, in many invertebrates and vertebrates. Here, we analyze the distribution of Vasa in early germ cells (oogonia and oocytes) and previtellogenic ovarian follicles of the lizard Podarcis sicula. During most of its previtellogenic growth, the oocyte in this lizard species is structurally and functionally integrated through intercellular bridges with special follicle cells called pyriform cells. The pyriform cells function similarly to Drosophila nurse cells, but are somatic in origin. In the oogenesis of P. sicula, Vasa is initially highly detected in the oogonia, but its levels decrease in early stage oocytes before the onset of pyriform cell differentiation. In the later stages of oogenesis, the high level of Vasa is related with the nurse function of the pyriform follicle cells. These observations suggest that cells of somatic origin are engaged in the synthesis of Vasa in the oogenesis of this lizard.
Mauruschat, I. (1988) -
Mauruschat, I. (1992) -
Mauruschat, I. & Rykena, S. & Eikhorst, W. (1990) -
We kept Lacerta mosorensis in vivaria. Each female produced one clutch per year. Within two years we got 19 eggs in 5 clutches. The eggs are yolked mainly from substance of fat body before the end of hibernation. The females retained the eggs after fertilization for about 35 days. At the time of laying the embryos are far developed. The incubation period is short, the minimum is 17 days at a temperature of 27 °C. The reproduction mode of L. mosorensis is discussed as adap- tation to a short activity period from June to October in the mountains of Durmitor in 1700 m NN. The time saving by yolk support deposition to eggs in winter can be found in L. vivipara and L. agilis too. The prolongated carrying of eggs is similar to some spanish populations of L. vivipara.
Mauscherning, I. & Neumann, H. & Winkler, C. (2010) -
Mavrović, N. (1997) -
May, H. (2006) -
May, H. (2011) -
Mayer, W. (1981) -
Mayer, W. (1986) -
Mayer, W. (1987) -
Mayer, W. (1989) -
Taxonomic changes and new findings concerning the subfamily Eremiainae in Africa are summarized to update SZCZERBAK`s (1975) catalogue of the African Sand Lizards. Furthermore, a key to the species and subspecies of the genus Pedioplanis is provided.
Mayer, W. (1993) -
Mayer, W. (1994) -
Mayer, W. (1995) -
Mayer, W. (1997) -
Mayer, W. (2004) -
Mayer, W. (2006) -
Mayer, W. (2013) -
A commented lacertids list for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, including the Arabian Peninsula and Asia is given.
Mayer, W. (2014) -
Mayer, W. (2015) -
Mayer, W. & Arribas, O. (2003) -
Parts of the mitochondrial genes coding for 12SrRNA and 16SrRNA (together about 960 bp) were sequenced for all Mediterranean species of `Mountain lizards` of the genera Archaeolacerta (sensu lato) and Iberolacerta. All subspecies of the Iberian species Iberolacerta cyreni and I. monticola were included in this study. In addition, samples of Apathya cappadocica and Darevskia rudis were analysed to elucidate the relationships of the European `Mountain lizards` to their possible relatives in the Near East. Maximum parsimony and neighbour joining analyses lead to the following major conclusions: (i) the monophyly of the genus Iberolacerta is very well supported; (ii) Archaeolacerta bedriagae (the type species of the genus) is most basal with respect to the ingroup taxa. If we accept Iberolacerta as a genus, Archaeolacerta becames paraphyletic. Therefore, we propose to restrict Archaeolacerta to the type species and to treat A. mosorensis and A. oxycephala provisionally as members of the collective genus Lacerta; (iii) within the genus Iberolacerta three groups were found: a Pyrenean group, an Iberian group and I. horvathi. The relationships among these groups remain unresolved; and (iv) the Peña de Francia lizards, described originally as a subspecies of I. cyreni, are in fact more closely related to I. monticola.
Mayer, W. & Arribas, O.J. (1996) -
Six nominal taxa (`Lacerta` monticola cantabrica, `L. ` monücola monticola, `L. ` aranica, `L. ` aurelioi, `L. ` bonnali, `L. ` cyreni) of the Iberian-Pyrenean Mountain Lizards were investigated by allozyme electropho- resis with regard to IS enzymatic loci. `L. ` horvathi was used as an outgroup for phylogenetic analysis. On the basts of our results - which are in perfect agreement with karyological data (ODIERNA & al. in press a, b) - five taxa can be distinguished (`£.`. monticola, `L`. aranica, `L`. aurelioi, `L`. bonnali, %`. cyreni) which we consider to be species.
Mayer, W. & Benyr, G. (1994) -
The albumins from 41 species of the family Lacertidae representing a substantial part of genera as well as infrageneric groups of the collective genus Lacerta s.l. were investigated by means of the MCF technique. The data allow a chronological estimation of the most important radiation events and their correlation with paleogeographical facts. Our results are in remarkable contradiction to the phylogeny presented by ARNOLD (1989a) based mainly on morphological characters. The most important phylogenetic relationships are: 1. The genera Gallona and Psammodromus are already isolated from the other taxa since the Oligocene. We assess these main branches as subfamilies Gallotiinae and Lacertinae. 2. Lacerta s.str. and Lacerta subgenus Zootoca form the sister group of the remaining Lacertinae. 3. A colonization of Africa in the Lower Miocene has led to a separation in two lines, with mainly Eurasian and African members respectively. 4. ARNOLD`S (I.e.) `Ethiopian and advanced Saharo-Eurasian clade` proved to be a paraphyletic unit, one group of genera being more closely related to European taxa. All techniques applied to the systematics of Lacertidae hitherto are critically discussed. An area-time- hypothesis concerning the phylogeny of Lacertidae is presented. Key words: Lacertidae, phylogeny of; Gallotiinae subfam. nov.; Lacertinae subfam. nov.; micro complement fixation; albumin evolution.
Mayer, W. & Berger-Dell´Mour, H. (1987) -
Mayer, W. & Berger-Dell´Mour, H. (1988) -
13 species of the genera Aporosaura, Meroles, Pedioplanis, and Heliobolus horn Namibia and additionally Pedioplanis burcheUi from the Republic of South-Africa have been investigated proteinelectrophoretically concerning 14 genetic loci. Pedioplanis and Meroles turned out to be sister groups, Heliobolus and Aporosaura are standing further apart. The su bgenera of Meroles (Meroles s. str. and Saurites) could not be parted distinctly. The morphological correspondence between Aporosaura and Saurites has been interpreted as convergent adaptions to their habitat.
Mayer, W. & Beyerlein, P. (1998) -
Mayer, W. & Beyerlein, P. (1999) -
All seven lacertid species recorded from the Peloponnese can be found in a very small area in the Arkadian highlands on the Peloponnese peninsula. Up to now only one example for such unique diversity in such a small area has been described in the Mediterranean region. This density requires the occupation of different restricted ecological and ethological niches for all seven species and therefore the habitats should be diverse. This niche segregation as well as the ecological demands and the ethological differences between the species are discussed in relation to this habitat diversity.
Mayer, W. & Beyerlein, P. (2002) -
Mayer, W. & Bischoff, W. (1991) -
All recent members of the genus Gallotia from the seven large isles of the Canary Archipelago have been investigated immunologically by means of micro-complement- fixation technique. Three species of genera living in NW-Africa were used as outgroup. Prom the evolutionary tree constructed from the results isolation times can be estimated and ways of colonization can be reconstructed. Various possibilities of insertion of the fossil species G . goliath in the evolutionary tree are discussed.
Mayer, W. & Bischoff, W. (1996) -
According to their phylogenetic relationships, the subgenera Zootoca, Omanosaura, and Timon are excluded from the genus Lacerta, and Teira is excluded from the genus Podarcis. On the basis of their morphological and karyological pecularities, they are defined as full genera.
Mayer, W. & Bischoff, W. (2001) -
Mayer, W. & Böhme, W. (2000) -
Mayer, W. & Böhme, W. & Tiedemann, F. & Bischoff, W. (2000) -
We discovered egg-laying populations of the Viviparous Lizard, Zootoca vivipara (JACQUIN, 1887) in Slovenia and Carinthia. Besides preliminary comparisons of egg membrane characteristics and embryonic stages at the time of egg deposition, we present a phylogenetic analysis of this species based on mitochondrial DNA sequences of several samples from Lower Austria, Carinthia, Slovenia, Italy (Friuli) and Spain. The results suggest an evolutionary divergence within this species comparable to that found in allopatric (semi)species. This leads us to recognise the south-eastern Central European oviparous lineage as a distinct subspecies Zootoca vivipara carniolica ssp. nov.
Mayer, W. & Lutz, D. (1989) -
Investigated the albumins from 31 species and subspecies of the genus Lacerta s.1. by means of the immunoloical techniue Micro-Complement-fixation. Dendrograms were computed by means of the ktch-MargJiash algorithm. Moreover the taxa of the Lacerta saxicola and the Lacerta danfordi comlexes were analyzed by electrophoresis concerning 14 genetic loci. The results were discussel together with karyological and genitalmorphological data so far known yielding the following relationships: Lacerta graeca shows a closer relationshi to the subgenus Podarcis as does the quite closely related species air L. dugesii and L. perspicikata. Lacerta Iaevis probabl is connected closely to Podarcis, too. Lacerta parva shows a closer relationship to the `small izards` than to the sub-genus Lacerta s. str. A clear decision concerning the position of the Lacerta danfordi complex according to chemosystematical data was not possible. It is isolated from the other species probably about as long as L. puma. Biochemical differences between its `species` are too small to confirm their taxonomical revalorisation by Eiselt and Schmidtler Within the Lacerta saxicola complex the investigated taxa show a close relationship. Lacerta praticola and L. derjugini were definitly assigned to this group.
Mayer, W. & Lutz, D. (1990) -
Mayer, W. & Moravec, J. & Pavlicev, M. (2004) -
Mayer, W. & Moravec, J. & Pavlicev, M. (2006) -
ree more or less different morphotypes of Mesalina brevirostris Blanford 1874 have been distinguished within the territory of Syria: (1) Lowland form, (2) Western (interme- diate) form and (3) Jabal al Arab form. We sequenced parts of the mitochondrial gene for cytochrome b (836 bp) of M. brevirostris samples from four Syrian and two Jordan localities and parts of the 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes of two selected Syrian samples to estimate the phylogenetic relationships among the given morphotypes. Two main clades with a divergence of about 10% in cyt-b were obtained. e first one involves the representatives of all three morphotypes and is divided further into three weakly divergent subclades: (i) Lowland form and partly also the Western form, (ii) J. al Arab form and population from northern Jordan, (iii) population from the eastern Jordan (area of Azraq). is situation indicates a high variability of haplotypes in a relatively small area. e second main clade consists of the remaining representatives of the Western form and reveals a cryptic undescribed taxon being hidden (syntopic occurrence) within the Western form (s.l.). e results suggest that the Syrian Lowland and J. al Arab forms might represent two different subspecies of M. brevirostris which evolved in a comparatively short time. e former form has been traditionally associated with the name M. b. brevirostris. e latter can be assigned to the name M. b. microlepis Angel 1936. A problem rises from the position of the holotype of microlepis, which morphologically fits rather the J. al Arab form than the other morphotypes, although according to the molecular data the today’s topotypes belong to the Lowland form. is can be explained by the changes in the distribution of the respec- tive form due to current aridisation process. A particular question concerns the taxonomic position of the Azraq population. Finally, only the cryptic undescribed taxon in western Syria may be assigned to the in- termediate western morphotype. e degree of morphological differentiation of this form is discussed.
Mayer, W. & Pavlicev, M. (2007) -
The family Lacertidae encompasses more than 250 species distributed in the Palearctis, Ethiopis and Orientalis. Lacertids have been subjected in the past to several morphological and molecular studies to establish their phylogeny. However, the problems of convergent adaptation in morphology and of excessively variable molecular markers have hampered the establishment of well supported deeper phylogenetic relationships. Particularly the adaptations to xeric environments have often been used to establish a scenario for the origin and radiation of major lineages within lacertids. Here we present a molecular phylogenetic study based on two nuclear marker genes and representatives of 37 lacertid genera and distinct species groups (as in the case of the collective genus Lacerta). Roughly 1600 bp of the nuclear rag1 and c-mos genes were sequenced and analyzed. While the results provide good support to the hitherto suggested main subfamilies of Gallotiinae (Gallotia and Psammodromus), Eremiainae and Lacertinae [Harris, D.J., Arnold, E.N., Thomas, R.H., 1998. Relationships of lacertid lizards (Reptilia: Lacertidae) estimated from mitochondrial DNA sequences and morphology. Proc. R. Soc. Lond. B 265, 1939–1948], they also suggest unexpected relationships. In particular, the oriental genus Takydromus, previously considered the sister-group to the three subfamilies, is nested within Lacertinae. Moreover, the genera within the Eremiainae are further divided into two groups, roughly corresponding to their respective geographical distributions in the Ethiopian and the Saharo-Eurasian ranges. The results support an independent origin of adaptations to xeric conditions in different subfamilies. The relationships within the subfamily Lacertinae could not be resolved with the markers used. The species groups of the collective genus Lacerta show a bush-like topology in the inferred Bayesian tree, suggesting rapid radiation. The composition of the subfamilies Eremiainae and Lacertinae as well as their phylogeography are discussed.
Mayer, W. & Podnar, M. (2002) -
Mayer, W. & Podnar, M. (2003) -
Mayer, W. & Richter, K. (1990) -
Die Wüstenrenner-Eidechsen Namibias werden derzeit in folgende vier Gattungen eingeteilt: Pedioplanis, Meroles, Aporosaura und Heliobolus. Während zweier Reisen konnten sie im Freiland studiert werden. Im Terrarium wurden sieben Arten gehalten, von denen vier Arten nachgezüchtet werden konnten. Neben Pedioplanis rubens, P. lineoocellata pulchella und P. namaquensis erweist sich vor allem Meroles cuneirostris als ein sehr gut zu haltendes, interessantes Terrarientier.
Mayer, W. & Richter, K. & Kammel, W. (1990) -
Mapping the herpetofauna of the basin of Feneos 7 species of amphibians and 21 species of reptiles were found to occur. Localities are recorded on maps for all species; some peculiarities are discussed.
Mayer, W. & Schweiger, S. (2011) -
Mayer, W. & Tiedemann, F. (1980) -
Small-lizards from the Greek islands Milos and Skiros are compared with populations from the continent of Podarcis taurica ionica, Podarcis muralis albanica and Podarcis erhardii by employing protein-electrophoretic data for 18 genloci. The gen frequencies of the polymorph loci are given and the genetic distances are calulated according to Nei. Extension of genetic distances is discussed. Podarcis milensis can be confirmed as a species. Populations of Milos and Skiros have shown to be closest related, both have to be considered as closely related to Podarcis taurica and not to Podarcis muralis.
Mayer, W. & Tiedemann, F. (1981) -
10 species (peloponnesiaca, muralis, melisellensis, graeca, oxycephala, horvathi, bedriagae, vivipara, viridis, agilis) of the genus Lacerta were examined by employing protein electrophoretic data for 16 genloci. Gene frequencies are given and genetic distances calculated according to NEI (1971, 1972). These and former attempts to subdivide the genus Lacerta are discussed. The electrophoretic results provide the possibility of a classification of the examined species into groups at the subgenus level corresponding to those valid before BÖHME (1971) and ARNOLD (1973): genus Lacerta subgenus Lacerta s. str. subgenus Podarcis subgenus Archaeolacerta subgenus Zootoca
Mayer, W. & Tiedemann, F. (1985) -
37 specimens of Lacerta trilineata and 40 of Lacerta viridis, as well as one hybrid (bred in captivity), were electrophoretically investigated at 16 Genetic loci. The only constant difference was the mobility of the heart LDH. In contrast to the often uncertain morphological differences of species, this protein can be used for the clear identification of both species and possible hybrids. To identify the species (without destroying the animals) only pieces of lizard tails soaking them in PPS and running LDH gels are necessary. The method is discussed in full.
Mayer, W. & W. Bischoff (2001) -
Mayer. W. (2001) -
Mayet, V. (1903) -
Mayo, I. & Burguete, J. & Robles Chillida, E.M. & Castano Fernandez, C. (1988) -
Se ha realizado un estudio ultraestructural sobre la pared quistica de Sarcocystis dugesii, localizado en el musculo estriado de las extremidades posteriores de Podarcis lilfordi. El quiste posee forma ovoide y su pared quistica primaria forma largas protusiones digitiformes. Debido posiblemente a la implantacion del quiste en el musculo, desorganizacion de las miofibrillas, alteracion mitocondrial y presencia de vacuolas. En algunas ocasiones se ha puesto de manifiesto la presencia de haces nerviosos de fibras mielinicas con una marcada alteracion de naturaleza degenerativa. Estos haces nerviosos se localizan cerca del paquete muscular en donde se implanta el quiste. La pared quistica secundaria no ha sido observada.
Mayol Serra, J. (1985) -
Mayol Serra, J. (2004) -
Summary of bio-invasions on the Balearic Islands. The endemic lizard from Mallorca and Minorca, Podarcis lilfordi, has been extirpated from the main islands and only survives on islets that have remained free of snakes and carnivores. In addition, the Mallorcan midwife toad, Alytes muletensis only survives in thefew karst canyons.
Mayol, J. (1997) -
Mayol, J. (2001) -
Mayol, J. (2004) -
Available data regarding conservation status of lizard populations from Balearic Islands, as well as threat factors affecting them are presented. Some populations are highly threatened, due to their intrinsic limitation of island surface occupied and, in addition, there are cases of viable artificial populations. Hence, we propose the translocation of most threatened populations to islets today unoccupied by lizards. We show the critria under which such operation could be performed.
A very small population (five lizards in 1998), product of the hybridization of P. p. maluquerorum and P. p. pityusensis, released by M. Eisentraut in 1930 survives in Dau Gran islet (Ibiza, Balearic Islands). The study of hybrids collected in 1935 and three present day specimens (two males and one female) allow to verify a tendency towards an increase in body size and a darker coloration of lizards. We consider that cannibalism is one of the principal selective factors in these extreme conditions that implie relatively quick evolutionary changes. This population can be representative of other populations also living in small islets with limited resources.
Mayol, J. (Coord). (2020) -
Mayol, J. & Viada, C. & Mateo, J.A. & Ramos, I. (2010) -
Endemic lizards from Balearic Islands, Podarcis pityusensis and P. lilfordi, are subjected to legal protection and effective conservation measures in recent decades. Since Martínez-Rica and Cirer (1982) –a paper devoted to the pityusic species, but that would be generalized-, the situation has changed considerably. In this communication, we consider the current legal situation, the habitats what are covered by protected areas (natural parks and reserves), and the factors of threat sug- gested recently. Finally, we enumerate the priorities in the future management of both species -according to the authors-, and which stocks would be those of preferential attention.
Mazanaeva, L.F. & Askenderov, A.D. (2016) -
e article presents information on the distribution of Lacerta media in Dagestan and neighboring areas of Georgia and Azerbaijan. On the basis of original data and available literature, a map of nds of lizards has been created. Previously unknown populations in Dagestan are described. Generally, La- certa media is widespread in the mountainous part of the republic. e range of inhabited altitudes is 840−2250 m above sea level. e area of the species range in Dagestan of about 521 kmІ (1.04% of the whole territory of the Republic and 1.86% of the area of its mountainous part) is represented by four small isolated territories. e lizard lives in the large semi-arid valleys of mountain rivers (Samur, Kurakh, Andiyskoye Koysu, Avarskoye Koysu). e population density is 7.5–10 to 50– 62.2 ind./ha. e maximum density of lizards was discovered in the valley of the river Samur, the minimum — Andiyskoye Koysu and Kurakh. e increased number of lizards in some locations is due to their inaccessibility to people and, therefore, poor anthropogenic development. e geobotanical characteristics of biotopes in di erent parts of the regional area is presented. e species population is stable in the region. e lizard is protected in the Kosobo-Kelebskiy reserve.
Mazanaeva, L.F. & Orlova, V.F. (2009) -
Mazanayeva, L.F. & Tuniyev, B.S. (2011) -
The paper describes the history of biogeographic views on the herpetofauna of both Dagestan and the Caucasus as a whole. The species are grouped into eight zoogeographic groups on the basis of our de- tailed chorological analysis. Mesophilous and xerophilous refuges of the Dagestan herpetofauna are de- scribed. Our herpeto-geographical subdivision of the territory is given. The territory of Dagestan is lo- cated in the Palaearctic subkingdom of Holarctic kingdom and divided between two areas, namely, the Turanian and Mediterranean ones. The boundary between the regions is the junction of the northern foot- hills and plains of the Eastern Caucasus. A possible reconstruction of the regional herpetofauna genesis is considered.
Мазанаева Л.Ф. & Туниев Б.С. (2011) -
Рассмотрены история биогеографических взглядов о герпетофауне Дагестана и Кавказа в целом. На базе детального анализа хорологии виды сгруппированы в 8 зоогеографических групп. Описа- ны мезофильные и ксерофильные рефугиумы герпетофауны Дагестана, дано герпетогеографиче- ское районирование его территории. Территория Дагестана расположена в Палеарктическом под- царстве Голарктического царства и подразделяется между двумя областями: Туранской и Среди- земноморской. Граница между областями проходит по стыку северных предгорий и равнин Вос- точного Предкавказья. Рассмотрены возможные пути исторического формирования герпетофауны региона.
Mazuch, T. (2002) -
Mazuch, T. (2003) -
Mazuch, T. (2004) -
Mazuch, T. (2013) -
Mazuch, T. & Hunacek, T. (2003) -
Mazzotti, S. (1999) -
The present study is a synthesis of data collected from 1980 to 1997 on lacertid lizards in the southern Po River Basin (Northern Italy), investigated using the data from the Herpetological Data base of the Natural History Museum of Ferrara. In this area three species of lacertid lizards were recorded: Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis siculus and Podarcus muralis. The ordination of the UTM 10x10 km squares showed that P. muralis and L. bilineata had no particular distribution whereas P. siculus was restricted to the coastal areas and the Po plain zone. P. siculus was mostly found at altitudes ranging from 0 to 200 m (70.9 %); P. muralis and L. bilineata, on the other hand, were present at high altitudes as well. The result of ANOVA on the number of altitudinal observations that revealed significance cornirmed these differences. The climatic analysis reflected the altitudinal differentiation as the three species showed quite evident differences in distribution in relation to temperature rainfall and the thermo-pluviometric index distribution. The result of ANOVA on the climatic parameters reached the level of significance. In general the frequency of all species was considerable in urban areas; P. siculus and L. bilineata were present above all in fallow fields while P. muralis preferred ruins and walls. The former species were also present in shrubs; whereas P. siculus preferred dunes and beaches, P. muralis gravel and stones.
Mazzotti, S. & Miserocchi, D. (2009) -
The collection of Amphibians and Reptiles of the Museum of Natural History of Ferrara has characteristics of historical representation, taxonomic and zoogeography that may be considered as examples of medium-sized types of collections more preva- lent in Italian museums. It consists of a historic part of the study and a donation from Guido Campadelli. The collection consists of 1739 specimens of amphibians (1734 of which held in 437 containers with ethanol and 5 taxidermized specimens) for a total of 78 amphibian species. There are 811 specimens of Reptiles (769 of which are stored in 526 containers with ethanol and 42 taxidermized specimens) representing a total of 108 species. The findings that form the collection of Amphibians come from 153 loca- lities of 15 states and 12 regions and 29 provinces of Italy. In the batrachological col- lection 62.1% of the total European species, and 94.3% of the total species in Italy, are represented. Zoogeographic regions most represented are the Palaearctic with 67% of the species of Amphibians in the collection and the Neotropical with 29%, fol- lowed by the Ethiopian (6%) and Nearctic (5%). Reptiles specimens come from 247 lo- calities of 15 states and 15 regions and 36 provinces of Italy. In the collection 46,2% of European species and 91,5% of the Italian ones are represented. The most represen- ted zoogeographic region are the Palaearctic with 89% of species in the collection, followed by the Ethiopian (14%), the Eastern (13%), Neotropical (11%) and the Nearctic (7%); australian and malagasy species do not exceed 3%. The herpetology collection was the subject of taxonomic and biogeographic analysis.
Mazzotti, S. & Stagni, G. (1993) -
McAllister, C.T. & Bursey, C.R. & Freed, P.S. (2010) -
One hundred and seven reptiles (11 families, 32 species) from the Northern and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa were examined for helminths. Twenty-three (22%) individual reptiles were found to harbor at least 1 species of nematode; 3 (7%) reptiles harbored multiple infections of 2 nematode species. Eight species within 5 families of Nematoda were found in the reptiles surveyed including 1 atractid, 1 diaphanocephalid, 1 heterakid, 3 pharyngodonids, and 2 physalopterans. Ten new host records are reported. A summary of the nematode parasites identified from South African reptiles is provided.
McAllister, C.T. & Bursey, C.R. & Freed, P.S. (2011) -
Two hundred twenty-two individual reptiles (11 families, 45 species) from 17 districts of Namibia were examined for endoparasites. Thirty-three (31 lizards, 2 snakes) individuals (15%) were found to harbor at least 1 species of helminth; 4 lizards harbored a multiple infection of 2 helminths, 1 lizard was infected with 3 species, and 1 lizard harbored a multiple infection of 5 species. One species of linstowiid cestode, 12 species of nematodes representing 6 families, and 1 species of cephalobaenid pentastomid were found in the herpetofauna surveyed. Twenty-seven new host and 8 new geographic records are documented for helminths of Namibian reptiles.
McBrayer, L.D. (2004) -
Lizards are a diverse clade in which one radiation consists entirely of sit-and-wait foragers and another consists of wide foragers. Lizards utilizing these two foraging modes are known to differ in diet, but little is known about how feeding morphology relates to diet and/or foraging mode. This study tested the hypothesis that skull morphology and biting performance are related to diet preference, and consequently, coevolve with foraging mode. Four species of lacertid lizard were studied because they vary in foraging mode, their phylogenetic relationships are known and they are well studied ecologically. Using an ‘ecomorphological’ approach, skull morphology and biting performance were quantified and mapped on to the phylogeny for the species. The results indicate that sit-and-wait species have shorter, wider skulls than the wide foraging species, and that all are significantly different in overall head shape. The sit-and-wait species had similar values for biting performance; however, clear phylogenetic patterns of covariation were not present between sit-and-wait and wide foraging species for either biting performance or skull morphology. Thus, skull morphology and performance have little influence on diet and foraging mode in these species. Instead it is likely that other factors such as seasonal prey availability and/or life history strategy shape foraging mode decisions.
McBrayer, L.D. & Wylie, J.E. (2009) -
Foraging behaviors exist along a continuum from highly sedentary, ambush foraging, to more continuous searching, or active foraging. Foraging strategies, or modes, are defined based upon locomotor behaviors (e.g. percent time moving, moves per minute). In lizards, traits correlated with ambush and active foraging have been of interest for some time; however, general patterns of correlated evolution between locomotor morphology and locomotor behavior have only recently begun to be quantified. In this study, variation in hindlimb morphology is investigated in a model group of lizard species that vary between active foraging and more sedentary (or mixed) foraging mode. Canonical variates analysis reveals that the two active foraging species occupy similar regions of the morphospace, while the two more sedentary species occupy different regions. The active foraging species have a narrow pelvis with shorter tibia and femora. The more sedentary species have a wide pelvis, long tibia and femora, and slightly longer metatarsals. Phylogenetic patterns of trait variation were examined through ancestral character state reconstruction and show morphological shifts in concert with foraging mode in these species. The observed shifts in locomotor morphology are discussed in light of published data on sprint speed and endurance in these species. Together, the data show that linking morphological variation to variation in stride length and stride frequency is critical to understanding the evolution of locomotor performance. Much more stride length and frequency data are needed among ambush, mixed, and active foraging species because these parameters, and their morphological components, are likely correlated with variation in food acquisition mode.
McElroy, E.J. & Reilly, S.M. (2009) -
Terrestrial locomotion occurs via the hierarchical links between morphology, kinematics, force, and center-of-mass mechanics. In a phylogenetically broad sample of seven lizard species, we show that morphological variation drives kinematic variation, which, in turn, drives force variation. Species with short limbs use a short stride–high frequency strategy when running at steady-speed and to change speeds. This link between morphology and kinematics results in relatively small vertical forces during the support phase of the stride cycle. Conversely, species with long limbs use a long stride–low frequency strategy, resulting in large vertical forces during the support phase. In view of these findings, we suggest that limb length may predict locomotor energetics in lizards because energetics are largely determined by vertical forces and stride frequency. Additionally, we propose an energetic trade-off with both long- and short-limbed species paying the most energy to move, whereas intermediatelimbed species move using less energy. Finally, when these traits are mapped onto a lizard phylogeny, we show that locomotor functional morphology exhibits both deep phylogenetic effects and contemporary patterns of evolutionary convergence. Overall, the present study provides a foundation for testing hypotheses regarding the integration and evolution of functional traits in lizards and animals in general.
McGinley, M. (2007) -
McGregor, D.P. (1992) -
McInerny, C.J. (2014) -
A population of reptiles on the east shore of Loch Lomond, Scotland, was monitored intensively during 2012, to understand population numbers, distribution, movements and biology through the year. Numbers of European adders Vipera berus, slow-worms Anguis fragilis and common lizards Zootoca vivipara were detected. Animals were seen first emerging from hibernation in early March and watched until late October, with breeding biology and movements observed.
McInerny, C.J. (2016) -
A population of reptiles containing European adders Vipera berus, slow-worms Anguis fragilis and common lizards Zootoca vivipara was studied over four years from 2012 to 2015 in an area adjacent to Loch Lomond, Scotland. Numbers, distribution and annual life cycles were monitored. The three species were active from mid-February to late October, with mating in April and May, and juveniles first appearing in August and September. All displayed site fidelity, with some animals using the same hibernation and sunning locations in consecutive years. The apparent co-existence of the three species in large numbers near human habitation suggests that in suitable habitat and the absence of persecution they can be present in high densities. The implications of these observations for reptile conservation are discussed.
McKeehan, A. & Sievert, L.M. (1996) -
McLennan, D. & Recknagel, H. & Elmer, K.R. & Monaghan, P. (2019) -
Different strategies of reproductive mode, either oviparity (egg‐laying) or viviparity (live‐bearing), will be associated with a range of other life‐history differences that are expected to affect patterns of ageing and longevity. It is usually difficult to compare the effects of alternative reproductive modes because of evolutionary and ecological divergence. However, the very rare exemplars of reproductive bimodality, in which different modes exist within a single species, offer an opportunity for robust and controlled comparisons. One trait of interest that could be associated with life history, ageing and longevity is the length of the telomeres, which form protective caps at the chromosome ends and are generally considered a good indicator of cellular health. The shortening of these telomeres has been linked to stressful conditions; therefore, it is possible that differing reproductive costs will influence patterns of telomere loss. This is important because a number of studies have linked a shorter telomere length to reduced survival. Here, we have studied maternal and offspring telomere dynamics in the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara). Our study has focused on a population where oviparous and viviparous individuals co‐occur in the same habitat and occasionally interbreed to form admixed individuals. While viviparity confers many advantages for offspring, it might also incur substantial costs for the mother, for example require more energy. Therefore, we predicted that viviparous mothers would have relatively shorter telomeres than oviparous mothers, with admixed mothers having intermediate telomere lengths. There is thought to be a heritable component to telomere length; therefore, we also hypothesized that offspring would follow the same pattern as the mothers. Contrary to our predictions, the viviparous mothers and offspring had the longest telomeres, and the oviparous mothers and offspring had the shortest telomeres. The differing telomere lengths may have evolved as an effect of the life‐history divergence between the reproductive modes, for example due to the increased growth rate that viviparous individuals may undergo to reach a similar size at reproduction.
McMillian, K. (2018) -
Meban, C. (1978) -
Median, F.M. (2018) -
Mediani, M. & Brito, J.C. & Fahd, S. (2015) -
Observational data collected from bibliography and during herpetological surveys in northern Morocco between 1989 and 2014 were plotted to generate updated distribution maps of amphibians and reptiles using a UTM 5 x 5 km grid system. Eleven amphibians and 53 reptiles were observed, including three amphibians and nine reptiles endemic to Morocco. In both taxonomic groups, three distinct species categories were identified in the area: widely distributed species, species restricted to particular environmental characteristics, and species with small and / or fragmented distributions. For total species richness, 10 areas of high diversity were identified. These areas were common to all taxonomic groups and correspond roughly to Mediterranean-type habitats. Amphibians constitute a relatively homogeneous group according to their habitat selection patterns while reptiles can be grouped in three assemblages: 1) generalist species with broad distributions in northern Morocco; 2) species occupying Mediterranean environments, generally abundant in the north-western region; and 3) species that occupy arid habitats, frequently found in the eastern region. The topographic complexity of northern Morocco apparently creates micro-environmental conditions for each group and is related to high levels of species diversity observed: 78% and 52% of the total number of amphibians and reptiles of Morocco, respectively. These findings strengthen the status of northern Morocco as a priority area for herpetofauna conservation at the national level
Medina, F.M. (2022) -
Medina, F.M. & Martín, A. (2010) -
We present data to confirm that the island of La Palma harbours the first established feral population of ferrets Mustela furo on the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean. It is not known when the species was introduced but individuals occasionally lost during hunting appear to have become established sometime in the previous 2 decades. Sightings of ferrets are mainly in the north of the island but they are likely to expand their range southwards, and a few have already been detected in the centre of the island. We report a total of 45 cases of wild ferrets in 28 different localities during 1998–2007. To minimize effects on native species, control measures or eradication are required. Public awareness of the problem and education campaigns, especially among hunters, are needed to reduce the threat of this alien species to the biota of the Canary Islands.
Medina, L. & Marti, E. & Artero, C. & Fasolo, A. & Puelles, L. (1992) -
The distribution of neuropeptide Y (NPY)-like immunoreactivity was studied in the brain of the lizard Gallotia galloti, in order to gain insight into the comparative topography of this peptide. Antisera against both NPY and its C-terminal flanking peptide (C-PON) were used, demonstrating a general coexistence of both peptides, as described in other vertebrates. Most NPY-like immunoreactive (NPY-LI) cell bodies were observed in the telencephalon, specifically in various olfactory structures, all cortices, septum, basal ganglia (except for the globus pallidus), the nucleus of the diagonal band of Broca, the amygdaloid complex, and the bed nucleus of the anterior commissure. NPY-LI cells were also seen in the preoptic and hypothalamic regions and the dorsal thalamus (mainly in the perirotundal belt), as well as in the mesencephalic tegmentum (in the ventral tegmental area, the substantia nigra, and the retrorubral area). NPY-LI fibers and terminals were widely distributed in the brain. All visual and auditory neuropiles were densely innervated. Specially dense plexuses were seen in the nucleus accumbens, the ventral pallidum, the suprachiasmatic and ventromedial hypothalamic nuclei, the nucleus medialis thalami, the left habenula, and the central nucleus of the torus semicircularis. Our analysis shows that the distribution of NPY-like immunoreactivity in the forebrain of Gallotia largely resembles that of other vertebrates, whereas differences are mainly observed in the brainstem. The widespread distribution of NPY in the lizard brain suggests several modulatory functional roles, either in local-circuit systems of the forebrain, or in various limbic, neuroendocrine, and sensory pathways.
Medina, L. & Puelles, L. & Smeets, W.J.A.J. (1994) -
For a better insight into general and derived traits of developmental aspects of catecholaminergic (CA) systems in amniotes, we have studied the development of these systems in the brain of a lizard, Gallotia galloti, with tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)- and dopamine (DA) immunohistochemical techniques. Two main groups of TH-immunoreactive (THi) perikarya appear very early in development: one group in the midbrain which gives rise to the future ventral tegmental area, substantia nigra and retrorubral cell groups, and another group in the tuberomammillary hypothalamus. Somewhat later in development, TH/DA-immunoreactive cells are observed in the thalamus, rostrodorsal hypothalamus and spinal cord, and, with another delay, in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, the periventricular organ, and the pretectal posterodorsal nucleus. CA cell groups that appear rather late in development include the cells in the olfactory bulb, the locus coeruleus and the caudal brainstem. As expected, the development of immunoreactive fibers stays behind that of the cell bodies, but reaches the adult-like pattern just prior to hatching. The present study revealed considerable variation in the relation between the state of cytodifferentiation and first expression of TH/DA immunoreactivity between CA cell groups. Catecholamine cells in the midbrain and tuberomammillary hypothalamus are still migrating, immature (absence of dendrites) and express only TH immunoreactivity at the time of first detection. Cells which appear at later developmental stages lie already further away from the ventricle, possess two or more dendritic processes, and generally express both TH- and DA immunoreactivity.
Medina, L. & Smeets, W.J.A.J. (1992) -
In order to study the relationship between retinal projections and immunohistochemically identified neurotransmitter systems in the primary visual centers of the brain in lizards, intraocular injections of horseradish peroxidase were combined with immunohistochemistry. Antibodies raised against six substances were applied: choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), serotonin (5-HT), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), dopamine (DA), substance P (SP), and leu-enkephalin (LENK). In the primary visual centers of the lizards Gekko gecko and Gallotia galloti, notable overlap was observed between retinofugal fibers with: 1) ChAT-immunoreactive fibers in almost all primary visual centers; 2) 5-HT-immuno-reactive fibers in the ventral lateral geniculate body and the basal optic nucleus; 3) TH-immunoreactive fibers in the nucleus ovalis and the dorsal lateral geniculate body; 4) SP- and LENK-immunoreactive fibers in the perirotundal belt; and 5) TH- and SP-immunoreactive fibers in the pretectal posterodorsal nucleus. The latter nucleus also contains dopaminergic cell bodies that lie outside the retinal target area but have dendrites extending into it. Several differences were noted in the distribution of 5-HT-, TH-, DA-, and LENK-immunoreactive fibers in the tectum of the midbrain in the two species studied. Distinct laminae of 5-HT-immunoreactive fibers (layer 9) and TH- and DA-immunoreactive fibers (layers 9 and 11) are present in G. gecko but absent or, at least, less distinct in G. galloti. On the contrary, the optic layers in the tectum of G. galloti show a rather dense plexus of LENK immunoreactive fibers, whereas the corresponding layers in G. gecko are devoid of LENK-immunoreactivity. Since only a very few ChAT immunoreactive fibers were observed in the optic nerve of G. galloti, most of the observed immunoreactive fibers in the primary visual centers are considered to have an extraretinal origin. Putative sources of the cholinergic, the monoaminergic, and the peptidergic innervation of the primary visual centers in reptiles include the isthmic nucleus, the raphe nuclei, the substantia nigra and the nucleus of the posterior commissure, as reported in other amniotes.
Medina, L. & Smeets, W.J.A.J. & Hoogland, P.V. & Puelles, L. (1993) -
The aim of the present study is to provide a complete description of the distribution of Choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) immunoreactivity (i) in the brain of the lizard Gallotia galloti, on the basis of two different primary antisera: rat anti-ChAT and rabbit anti-chicken CUT. Considering that the brain is a segmented structure, we have analysed our data with respect to transverse segmental domains (or neuromeres), which have been previously described by several authors in the brain of vertebrates. In the telencephalon, ChATi neurons are seen in the cortex, anterior dorsal ventricular ridge, basal ganglia, diagonal band, and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Further caudally, ChATi cell bodies are located in the preoptic area, hypothalamus, habenula, isthmus, and all motor efferent centers of the brainstem and spinal cord. Plexuses of ChATi fibers are observed in the areas containing cholinergic cell bodies. In addition, distinct plexuses are found in the cortex, the posterior dorsal ventricular ridge, the neuropiles of all primary visual centers of the diencephalon and mesencephalon, and several non-visual nuclei of the brainstem. The distribution of ChAT immunoreactivity in the brain of G. galloti resembles in many respects that of other vertebrates, and differences are mainly observed in the pretectum and midbrain tectum. Transverse segmental domains were identified in the brainstem and forebrain of Gallotia when the cranial nerve roots and fiber tracts were used as a reference, and most cranial motor nuclei were found to occupy the same segmental positions as have been reported in the chick.
Medina, L. & Trujillo, C.M. & Diaz, C. & Martin, A. & Puelles, L. (1990) -
In a Golgi study of the area triangularis (AT), a rostral nucleus of the ventral thalamus of Gallotiagalloti, we have identified four major neuronal types on the basis of their morphological characteristics: medium-sized fusiforms with two processes, medium-sized fusiforms with three or four processes, small bipolars, and small and medium-sized multipolars. These neurons are characterized by a simple morphology and radial arrangement. Cell size varies from small to medium, and all axons project laterally. These characteristics distinguish AT neurons from those of neighboring nuclei. In addition, we found some evidence of differential topographic distribution of each neuronal type within the nucleus. Medium-sized fusiform neurons with two processes are located in the most ventral part, where they constitute the ventral nuclear limit. Small multipolar neurons prevail in the dorsal and ventromedial parts, and in the rest of the nucleus medium-sized neurons, including both fusiform with three or four processes and multipolar types, are normally found. Finally, we discuss a putative homology of the reptilian AT with a part of the mammalian zona incerta.
Meek, R. (2009) -
Road mortalities of two lizard and four snake species were recorded in the Vendée region of western France over a period of four years. Road-kills were more frequent in the foraging snakes Hierophis (= Coluber) viridiflavus and Natrix natrix as well as the lizard Lacerta bilineata, and lower in the small lizard Podarcis muralis and the sedentary snakes Vipera aspis and Natrix maura. Road-kills were found throughout the active year, with differences in size class and monthly frequencies in H. viridiflavus, N. natrix and L. bilineata commencing in June. Pearson rank correlation coefficients revealed a significant positive association between monthly road-kill and monthly live counts of H. viridiflavus and N. natrix, suggesting regular road crossings in these species. Road traffic volume was related to the number of road deaths using regression analysis of the log-transformed data. This gave an allometric equation with an exponent of 0.75, which was not significantly different from 1, the exponent required if road-kills increase in direct proportion to increasing road traffic volume. The highest traffic volume route showed lower than expected mortalities, but fewer numbers of species living in the vicinity. Models of road-kill vulnerability in H. viridiflavus and N. natrix, derived from the integration of size frequencies of road-kill and live distributions, predict high vulnerability in small and large individuals. In lizards, particularly L. bilineata, road basking is probably the main factor determining mortality, in addition to species velocities, traffic volumes, road widths, abundance at the sides of roads, and behaviour and activity patterns.
Meek, R. (2011) -
Meek, R. (2014) -
Observations of the green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) and wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) on roads in Western France indicated that basking close to the road edge was the predominant activity in L. bilineata but P. muralis mostly foraged. Spatial locations of road mortalities in both species reflected this with the median distances from the road edge greater in P. muralis. Temporal differences in road presence, based on mortality counts and those of live lizards, indicated significantly more lizards were present on roads during late summer and autumn, especially in P. muralis. A significant correlation was found between the monthly presence of live lizards and monthly road mortalities in P. muralis (r = 0.73) but not in L. bilineata (r = 0.64). Numbers of L. bilineata found on roads bisecting low-density urban areas and roads bordered by hedgerows were higher than expected in relation to the occurrence of these habitats at roadsides. In P. muralis higher than expected numbers were found alongside low-density urban areas and roads bisecting woodland. Generally both species were less commonly seen on roads alongside agricultural areas with no hedgerow border.
Meek, R. (2020) -
Identifying population changes is a prerequisite for any conservation efforts, but to evaluate trends requires long-term data sets. In this paper, changes in population numbers in two species of European lizards, Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis, are described. The results are based on counts of mortalities and live lizard presence on roads collected over a 14 year period, which indicated wide annual fluctuations in numbers in both species, with inter-specific annual trends strongly correlated. Snout to vent lengths (SVL) in L. bilineata were generally longer when annual numbers were higher but not in P. muralis. Regression analysis of the logarithmic transforms of annual lizard numbers as dependent variables and year as the independent variable indicated that despite population fluctuations, numbers of both species were stable or increased during the period of observation. Jackknife analysis identified unusually high numbers of L. bilineata in 2012 and P. muralis in 2010, but data from these years had minimal influence on the general trends with the peudo-regression coefficients generated from the Jackknife analysis in agreement with the true regressions. The results were therefore congruent, indicating annual fluctuations in both species were underpinned by long-term population stability.
Meek, R. & Luiselli, L. (2021) -
The influence of temperature on the physiological processes in reptiles is well known, for example growth, reproduction, muscular energy are all largely temperature dependent and therefore temperature is a key aspect of reptilian ecology. However, there may be constraints on the ability of reptiles to harness thermal energy, particularly during cold seasons in the temperate zones. Substrate selection is a key aspect in thermoregulation and can enhance heat uptake. For example, wood substrates are known to increase rates of heat gain in basking reptiles enabling earlier attainment of optimum body temperatures compared to other substrate types, which enables increased time available for other activities. In this paper we describe substrate use for basking in two species of lizard, Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis in a hedgerow and suburban garden in western France compared against a null model of substrate availability. When different substrates were pooled based on their material similarities both species were recorded in greater frequency on wood based materials in comparison to their availability compared to non-wood substrates. However at a finer level, in comparison to substrate availability (fallen tree branches, tree stumps, open ground etc), P. muralis showed strong substrate selection for basking, whereas L. bilineata did not depart significantly from the null model. We speculated that intra-specific aggression in L. bilineata was a possible cause of this result due to dominant individuals limiting smaller or female lizards from accessing prime basking sites. Differences in communal basking between the two species supported this notion.
Meek, R. & Luiselli, L. (2022) -
The relationship between a reptile and its thermal environment is a key feature of habitat use, which may be impacted by, among others, the requirements for food, avoidance of competitors and predators. Juvenile lizards are subject to the same ecological pressures, but may additionally experience predation or exclusionfrom prime basking site by adults and hence their capacity to achieve preferred body temperatures. In this paper, we examined basking site selection in juvenile western green lizards, Lacerta bilineata and compared them to basking site availability. Secondly, measurements of morning substrate temperatures at different basking sites were compared to basking site selection over the same period. The results indicated that juveniles selected substrates with fast heating surfaces, for example fallen branches for basking, in greater frequency than their availability but in even greater than expected frequency on the cooler surfaces of clusters of bramble plant. This finding contrasted with basking site selection in adult L. bilineata in a previous study where wood surfaces was preferred over non-wood surfaces whilst avoiding basking on bramble. This illustrates the different ecological requirements between adults and juveniles.
The influence of temperature on the physiological processes in reptiles is well known, for example growth, repro duction and muscular energy are all temperature dependent. However, there may be constraints on the ability of a reptile to harness thermal energy, particularly during cold seasons in the temperate zones. Substrate selection is a key factor in enhancing thermoregulation since it can enhance rate of heat uptake. For example, wood substrates are known to increase rates of heat gain in basking reptiles enabling earlier attainment of optimum body tempera tures compared to other substrate types, which enables increased time available for other activities. In this paper we describe substrate use for basking in populations of Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis in a hedgerow and a population of Podarcis muralis in a suburban garden in western France. The proportions of substrate used were compared against a null model of substrate availability. When different substrates were pooled based on material similarities both species were recorded in greater frequency on wood based materials in comparison to their avail ability compared to non-wood substrates. However at a finer level, in comparison to the null model of substrate availability (fallen tree branches, tree stumps, open ground etc), P. muralis showed strong substrate selection whereas L. bilineata did not depart significantly from the null model. We speculate that intra-specific aggression in L. bilineata was one possible cause of this result due to dominant individuals limiting access to prime basking sites in smaller or female lizards. Differences in communal basking between the two species supported this notion.
Meek, R. & Luiselli, L. & Avery, R.A. (2024) -
Urbanisation impacts on both abiotic and biotic characteristics of the environment and is likely to bring new selective pressures on animal species living within these areas. The common European wall lizard Podarcis muralis adapts well to urbanisation and indeed may be described as the archetypical urban lizard. In this paper we investigated some aspects of the demography of two populations of P. muralis from western France, one living in a hedgerow system situated in an agricultural area on the edge of a village and a second in an urban garden. The active year in both populations was from February–March until October–December, the latter in the urban garden where temperatures were higher. Numbers decreased from around June then increased again during September but this varied annually and between populations. Diversity and equality indexes for both populations were high, especially in females, indicating a range of individuals and their frequency of presence. Both populations were therefore stable despite only limited numbers of lizards being present for more than one year. Male lizards with high presence were more frequently seen in the company of females than males that were seen less frequently. Hatchling lizards were seen from June after the spring mating period with a second period of hatchlings appearing during autumn. This supports the notion that females annually deposit two clutches of eggs in the area.
Meer, M.H. van der & Whiting, M.J. & Branch, W.R. (2010) -
Sandveld lizards (genus Nucras) are widespread in southern Africa, but are generally secretive and poorly known. We examined 385 preserved specimens from five species of Nucras collected over a broad time span (104 years) and a geographic area covering most of South Africa and Swaziland. We had three main objectives: to test for sexual size dimorphism, to quantify male and female reproductive cycles, and to determine diet. In addition, we examined the importance of scorpions in the diet of Nucras based on previous studies reporting an unusually high incidence of scorpions in the diet of Kalahari N. tessellata. Males of all species except N. lalandii had significantly larger heads than females of the same body size, although females had significantly greater snout–vent length than males in three of the five species examined. The general reproductive pattern was for females to contain vitellogenic eggs during late spring and early summer. No females simultaneously contained oviductal and vitellogenic eggs, which suggests that females produce only one clutch per season. Clutch size was unrelated to female body size in all species examined. Female follicle volume generally coincided with male testicular volume, indicating for the most part synchronized reproductive cycles between the sexes. Testis volume was generally highest during spring–early summer, with only N. holubi showing a second peak in autumn. We recorded 15 arthropod orders in the diet of Nucras. All species feed on invertebrates, primarily insects, and, to a lesser degree, spiders and centipedes. Termites, grasshoppers, and beetles both numerically and volumetrically dominated their diet. We found no evidence that scorpions form a major part of the diet of any of these five species of Nucras, including N. tessellata from biomes outside the Kalahari Desert.
Meerman, J.C. (1979) -
Der Verfasser besuchte Tunesien Anfang April 1978 und berichtet von den Arten, die er da vorfand. Chalcides ocellatus und Tarentola mauritanica wurden häufig beobachtet, besonders in Sousse. Ertaunliche Mengen von mMauremys caspica leprosa wurden in dem kleinen Fluss ´Oued Hamdoun`bei Sousse gesehen, sie wurden aber auch in Kairouan und Gabès anagetroffen. Natrix maura wurde in Sousse und Kairouan immer im oder beim Wasser gesehen, oft ist dieses Wasser hier brackig. Zum Schluss gibt der Verfasser einen Determinationsschlüssel zu den tunesischen Amphibien-, Eidechsen- und Schildkrötenarten mit wissenscjaftlichen, französischen, niederländischen und manchmal auch arabischen Namen.
Meester, G. de (2022) -
Meester, G. de & Damme, R. van (2018) -
Meester, G. de & Damme, R. van (2022) -
Animals exhibit considerable and consistent among-individual variation in cognitive abilities, even within a population. Recent studies have attempted to address this variation using insights from the field of animal personality. Generally, it is predicted that animals with “faster” personalities (bolder, explorative, and neophilic) should exhibit faster but less flexible learning. However, the empirical evidence for a link between cognitive style and personality is mixed. One possible reason for such conflicting results may be that personality–cognition covariance changes along ecological conditions, a hypothesis that has rarely been investigated so far. In this study, we tested the effect of habitat complexity on multiple aspects of animal personality and cognition, and how this influenced their relationship, in five populations of the Aegean wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii). Overall, lizards from both habitat types did not differ in average levels of personality or cognition, with the exception that lizards from more complex habitats performed better on a spatial learning task. Nevertheless, we found an intricate interplay between ecology, cognition, and personality, as behavioral associations were often habitat- but also year-dependent. In general, behavioral covariance was either independent of habitat, or found exclusively in the simple, open environments. Our results highlight that valuable insights may be gained by taking ecological variation into account while studying the link between personality and cognition.
Meester, G. de & Lambreghts, Y. & Briesen, B. & Smeuninx, T. & Tadic, Z. & Damme, R. van (2018) -
Foraging decisions should reflect a balance between costs and benefits of alternative strategies. Predation risk and resource availability in the environment may be crucial in deciding how cautious individuals should behave during foraging. These costs and benefits will vary in time and context, meaning that animals should be able to adjust their foraging behaviour to new or altered environments. Studying how animals do this is essential to understand their survival in these environments. In this study, we investigated the effect of both insularity and urbanization on risk‐taking and neophobia during foraging in the Dalmatian wall lizard (Podarcis melisellensis). Small islets tend to have both a lower number of predators and less resources. Therefore, islet populations were expected to show more risk‐taking behaviour and less neophobia in a foraging context. Previous studies on behaviour of urban lizards have yielded inconsistent results, but due to a lack of both predators and arthropod prey in urban habitats, we expected urban lizards to also take more risks and behave less neophobic. We sampled several inhabited and uninhabited locations on Vis (Croatia) and surrounding islets. Risk‐taking behaviour was tested by measuring the latency of lizards to feed in the presence of a predator model, and neophobia by measuring the latency to feed in the presence of a novel object. We found that islet lizards do indeed take more risks and were less vigilant, but not less neophobic. Urban and rural lizards did not differ in any of these behaviours, which is in sharp contrast with previous work on mammals and birds. The behavioural differences between islet and island lizards were novel, but not unexpected findings and are in line with the theory of “island tameness”. The effect of urbanization on the behaviour of animals seems to be more complex and might vary among taxa.
Meester, G. de & Pafilis, P. & Vasilakis, G. & Damme, R. van (2022) -
Recently, biologists have become increasingly interested in cognitive variation among individuals and how it relates to differences in fitness. However, very few studies so far have studied the long-term repeatability and heritability of cognitive performance in wild animals. This is nevertheless crucial information to fully understand the potential ecological and evolutionary impact of individual variation in cognitive performance. In 2019, we assessed exploration, problem solving and spatial and reversal learning in 66 Aegean wall lizards, Podarcis erhardii, then released them in seminatural enclosures consisting of either simple or complex habitat. One year later, we recaptured and retested the surviving lizards and their offspring to estimate the long-term repeatability and heritability of these behavioural and cognitive characteristics. We found that exploration and spatial learning were moderately repeatable, but reversal learning only marginally and learning flexibility and problem solving not at all. Reversal learning ability declined over time in lizards kept in simple habitat, but not in those kept in complex habitats – suggesting habitat-dependent cognitive plasticity. To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating (long-term) consistency in cognitive traits within a nonavian reptile. The combination of modest repeatability and low heritability does suggest that, within our study species, personality and cognitive variation among individuals and populations is mostly moulded by environmental effects.
Meester, G. de & Sfendouraki-Basakarou, A., Paflis, P. & R. van Damme (2021) -
Harsh and variable environments have been hypothesized to both drive and constrain the evolution towards higher cognitive abilities and behavioural flexibility. In this study, we compared the cognitive abilities of island and mainland Aegean wall lizards (Podarcis erhardii), which were expected to live in respectively a more variable and a more stable habitat. We used four proxies of behavioural flexibility: a neophobia assay, a problem-solving test and a spatial + reversal learning task. Surprisingly, the two populations did not differ in neophobia or problem-solving. Insular lizards, however, outperformed mainland conspecifics in an initial spatial learning task, but were less successful during the subsequent reversal learning. Our results thus seem to indicate that the effect of environmental variability on cognition is complex, as it may favour some, but not all aspects of behavioural flexibility.
Meeuwen, H.M. van (1961) -
Meeuwen, H.M. van (1964) -
Meeuwen, H.M. van (1974) -
A male specimen of Lacerta lepida pater (Lata s t e) from Tizi `n Tichka (near Marrakesj, Morocco), kept in a terrarium, displayed a form of threatening behaviour worth mentioning. The lizard, for a short time placed in a small terrarium where it could neither flee nor hide, would first threaten the author upon his aproach with an opened mouth, and then by throwing small stones into his direction, by means of scratching movements with one of the forelegs (photo). Finally it would bite, just to run away afterwards.
Meeuwen, H.M. van (1977) -
During a five day trip to Rhodos in february 1974, three species of reptiles were observed, Agama stellio stellio, Lacerta danfordi pelasgiana and Ablepharus k.kitaibelii. Their habitats are described. Few specimens of all kinds were taken home, where they all died within a year. The conclusion is, that it may profitable to catch your own animals, but that nevertheless it remains obligatory to treat the freshly caught animals against inner and outer parasites.
Meeuwen, H.M. van der (1966) -
Megia-Palma, R. & Arregui, L. & Pozo, I. & Zagar, A. & Serèn, N. & Carretero, M.A. & Merino, S. (2020) -
Anthropization of insular ecosystems may have negative impacts on native populations of lizards, which provide core ecosystem services on islands. We aimed to identify environmental factors to explain the interlocal variation in faecal glucocorticoids, parasite intensity, and body condition in populations of insular lizards. A cross-sectional design during the summer of 2017 and 2018 was used to sample 611 adult lizards, Gallotia galloti. Interlocal variation of three stress indicators was analysed in response to environmental variables across a wide environmental gradient in Tenerife (Canary Islands): (i) concentration of faecal glucocorticoids, (ii) intensities of infection by hematic parasites, and (iii) body condition. The data, with low spatial autocorrelation, were analysed using multimodel inference and model cross-validation. Bioclimatic variables associated with the extreme hot and dry climate of summer were the most informative predictors. Interlocal variation in faecal corticosterone in males was best fitted to a model that included the maximum temperature of the warmest month, although the best predictor was habitat anthropization. The thermal annual range, associated with extreme thermal events, was positively related to faecal corticosterone in females. Extreme hot temperatures were positively related to the median parasite intensities in both sexes, while the highest mean intensities of infection were found in females from the most xeric coastal localities. None of the predictors tested, including faecal glucocorticoids, explained individual or interlocal variation in body condition. Effects of human pressure and climate change on insular populations of lizards can be additive. However, the uncoupled relationship found between body condition and the faecal glucocorticoid content suggests that current negative effects may be aggravated during drought periods in summer. Given the impact of climate change on islands, our results may be of application to other archipelagos, where lizards also play key ecological roles.
Megia-Palma, R. & Barja, I. & Barrientos, R. (2021) -
Differences between air and ground temperatures are expected to narrow with the advance of the season in temperate regions (aka seasonal restriction in the availability of thermal microhabitats), which may activate behavioral and physiological responses of ectotherm species adapted to temperate climates. However, according to cost-benefit models of ectotherm thermoregulation, we hypothesize that these responses may also carry some costs. We quantified seasonal shifts in thermoregulatory precision, concentration of fecal glucocorticoid metabolites, and load of ectoparasites in a Mediterranean lizard, Psammodromus algirus. We also tested whether the proximity to a road, a putative source of chronic stress, can facilitate the glucocorticoid-mediated response of lizards to heat stress. As expected, differences between body and environmental temperatures narrowed during the reproductive season and lizards responded by increasing their thermoregulatory precision and the secretion of glucocorticoids, as indicated by metabolites in feces. Interestingly, lizards tended to have higher glucocorticoid concentration when captured far from the road. This might reflect either a putative impairment of the glucocorticoid-mediated response of the lizards to heat stress close to the road or the plastic capability of P. algirus to acclimate to sources of moderate chronic stress. In the latter direction, the increase of both glucocorticoid metabolites and thermoregulatory precision supported that this Mediterranean species responds to environmental thermal restrictions with adaptive behavioral and physiological mechanisms. However, this was also associated with an increase in its susceptibility to ectoparasites, which represents an added cost to the current cost-benefit models of ectotherm thermoregulation.
Megia-Palma, R. & Cuervo, J.J. & Fitze, P.S. & Martinez, J. & Jiménez-Robles, O. & Riva, I. de la & Reguera, S. & Moreno-Rueda, G. & Blaimont, P. & Kopena, R. & Barrientos, R. & Martin, S. & Merino, S. (2024) -
1. Female and male hosts may maximise their fitness by evolving different strategies to compensate for the costs of parasite infections. The resulting sexual dimorphism might be apparent in differential relationships between parasite load and body condition, potentially reflecting differences in energy allocation to anti-parasitic defences. For example, male lacertids with high body condition may produce many offspring while being intensely parasitised. In contrast, female lacertids may show a different outcome of the trade-offs between body condition and immunity, aiming to better protect themselves from the harm of parasites. - 2. We predicted that females would have fewer parasites than males and a lower body condition across parasitaemia levels because they would invest resources in parasite defence to mitigate the costs of infection. In contrast, the male strategy to maximise access to females would imply some level of parasite tolerance and, thus, higher parasitaemia. - 3. We analysed the relationship between the body condition of lizards and the parasitemias of Karyolysus and Schellackia, two genera of blood parasites with different phylogenetic origins, in 565 females and 899 males belonging to 10 species of the Lacertidae (Squamata). These lizards were sampled over a period of 12?years across 34 sampling sites in southwestern Europe. - 4. The results concerning the Karyolysus infections were consistent with the predictions, with males having similar body condition across parasitaemia levels even though they had higher infection intensities than females. On the other hand, females with higher levels of Karyolysus parasitaemia had lower body condition. This is consistent with the prediction that different life strategies of male and female lacertids can explain the infection patterns of Karyolysus. In contrast, the parasitaemia of Schellackia was consistently low in both male and female hosts, with no significant effect on the body condition of lizards. This suggests that lizards of both sexes maintain this parasite below a pathogenic threshold.
Megia-Palma, R. & Hernández-Agüero, J.A. & Martinez, J. & Merino, S. (2014) -
Megia-Palma, R. & Javier, M. & Santiago, M. (2016) -
Host species in populations under strong pressures from parasitic diseases may evolve ornaments to signal individual host quality to conspecifics. Colour ornaments in lizards result from the interaction of different layers in the skin. When inner layers of melanin and well-arranged iridophores are combined, UV-blue structural colouration results. On the other hand, when layers of erythrophores are densely loaded with carotenoids, a UV-yellow colouration is seen. The expression of carotenoid-based traits has been frequently studied in relation to parasite infections. However, few studies have explored the relationship between parasitic diseases and structural colouration. In this study, we investigated the expression of UV-blue and UV-yellow throat colour patches in males of Lacerta schreiberi in relation to infection by haemoparasites, ixodid ticks and intestinal nematodes. The brightness of the UV-yellow throat patch (a carotenoid-based ornament) was positively correlated with body condition and negatively correlated with the number of attached ticks, supporting Hamilton and Zuk’s hypothesis. Additionally, individuals that passed nematode eggs in the faeces had UV-yellow throat patches with higher hue values (more greenish colouration). Strikingly, the individuals infected by haemoparasites of the genus Schellackia showed UV-blue throat patches (a melanin-based ornament) with higher values of both UV-blue chroma and hue (i.e., UV-biased throats) than did uninfected individuals, suggesting a key role for melanin in the nuptial colouration of this lizard species. Thus, the combined information from both UV-blue and UV-yellow throat patches may convey integrative information about individual quality in this lacertid species.
Megia-Palma, R. & Jiménez-Robles, O. & Hernández-Agüero, J.A. & Riva, I. de la (2020) -
The plastic capability of species to cope with the new conditions created by climate change is poorly understood. This is particularly relevant for organisms restricted to high elevations because they are adapted to cold temperatures and low oxygen availability. Therefore, evaluating trait plasticity of mountain specialists is fundamental to understand their vulnerability to environmental change. We transplanted mountain lizards, Iberolacerta cyreni, 800 m downhill to evaluate the plastic response in body condition, thermoregulation traits, haemoglobin level, and haemoparasite load. Initial measurements of body mass, total haemoglobin concentration ([Hb]), hematic parasite intensities, dorsal luminance, and thermoregulatory behaviour were resampled after two and four weeks of acclimation. We also tested whether an anti-parasitic drug reduced haemoparasite intensity. After only two weeks of acclimation to a lower elevation, lizards decreased 42% in [Hb], had 17% less parasite intensities, increased body condition by 25%, and raised by ~3% their mean preferred temperatures and their voluntary thermal maximum. The anti-parasitic treatment had no significant effect on the intensity of hematic parasites, but our results suggest that negative effects of haemoparasites on [Hb] are relaxed at lower elevation. The rapid plastic changes observed in thermal preferences, body condition, [Hb], and parasite intensity of I. cyreni demonstrate a potential plastic response of a mountain specialist. This may be adaptive under the climatic extremes typical of mountain habitats. However, there is uncertainty in whether the observed plasticity can also help overcome long term environmental changes.
Megia-Palma, R. & Jorge, A. & Reguera, S. (2018) -
Melanic pigments play a key role in the coloration of animals, but the type of melanin pigment in black, brown, and blue colored scales of Squamata has not been studied. Based on research on birds and mammals, we may expect that pheomelanin is the majority pigment in brownish colorations and eumelanin is the majority pigment in black and blue colorations of Squamata. To characterize the pigments that underlie the melanin-based colorations of lizards, we analyzed the skin of nine genera of lacertids using dispersive Raman spectroscopy. Our results suggest that no prediction can be made on the type of pigmentary melanin present in the skin of the lacertids based alone on the hue of the sample. Indeed, brownish patterns in the skin of Psammodromus, Gallotia, Acanthodactylus, and Algyroides lizards presented both chemical forms of melanin: eumelanin and pheomelanin. Therefore, pheomelanogenesis might be an ancient characteristic within Lacertidae, because it was detected in genera in the Lacertini, Eremini, and Gallotini. Raman spectra of melanic-based patterns of genus Zootoca and ultraviolet (UV)-blue patches of Podarcis, Iberolacerta, Lacerta, and Timon lizards suggested that eumelanin is the majority pigment in these patches. Raman spectroscopy is a suitable nondestructive technique useful to identify melanin forms in the skin of lizards, and it demonstrated that pheomelanin is synthesized by Squamata.
Megia-Palma, R. & Martinez, J. & Cuervo, J.J. & Belliure, J. & Jiménez-Robles, O. & Gomes, V. & Cabido, C. & Pausas, J.G. & Fitze, P.S. & Martin, J. & Merino, S. (2018) -
Current and past parasite transmission may depend on the overlap of host distributions, potentially affecting parasite specificity and co-evolutionary processes. Nonetheless, parasite diversification may take place in sympatry when parasites are transmitted by vectors with low mobility. Here, we test the co-speciation hypothesis between lizard final hosts of the Family Lacertidae, and blood parasites of the genus Schellackia, which are potentially transmitted by haematophagous mites. The effects of current distributional overlap of host species on parasite specificity are also investigated. We sampled 27 localities on the Iberian Peninsula and three in northern Africa, and collected blood samples from 981 individual lizards of seven genera and 18 species. The overall prevalence of infection by parasites of the genus Schellackia was ∼35%. We detected 16 Schellackia haplotypes of the 18S rRNA gene, revealing that the genus Schellackia is more diverse than previously thought. Phylogenetic analyses showed that Schellackia haplotypes grouped into two main monophyletic clades, the first including those detected in host species endemic to the Mediterranean region and the second those detected in host genera Acanthodactylus, Zootoca and Takydromus. All but one of the Schellackia haplotypes exhibited a high degree of host specificity at the generic level and 78.5% of them exclusively infected single host species. Some host species within the genera Podarcis (six species) and Iberolacerta (two species) were infected by three non-specific haplotypes of Schellackia, suggesting that host switching might have positively influenced past diversification of the genus. However, the results supported the idea that current host switching is rare because there existed a significant positive correlation between the number of exclusive parasite haplotypes and the number of host species with current sympatric distribution. This result, together with significant support for host-parasite molecular co-speciation, suggests that parasites of the genus Schellackia co-evolved with their lizard hosts.
Megia-Palma, R. & Martinez, J. & Fitze, P.S. & Cuervo, J.J. & Belliure, J. & Jimßenez-Robles, O. & Cabido, C. & Martin, J. & Merino, S. (2023) -
The genus Karyolysus was originally proposed to accommodate blood parasites of lacertid lizards in Western Europe. However, recent phylogenetic analyses suggested an inconclusive taxonomic position of these parasites of the order Adeleorina based on the available genetic information. Inconsistencies between molecular phylogeny, morphology, and/or life cycles can reflect lack of enough genetic information of the target group. We therefore surveyed 28 localities and collected blood samples from 828 lizards of 23 species including lacertids, skinks, and geckoes in the western Mediterranean, North Africa, and Macaronesia, where species of Karyolysus and other adeleorine parasites have been described. We combined molecular and microscopic methods to analyze the samples, including those from the host type species and the type locality of Karyolysus bicapsulatus. The phylogenetic relationship of these parasites was analyzed based on the 18S rRNA gene and the co-phylogenetic relationship with their vertebrate hosts was reconstructed. We molecularly detected adeleorine parasites in 37.9% of the blood samples and found 22 new parasite haplotypes. A phylogenetic reconstruction with 132 sequences indicated that 20 of the newly detected haplotypes clustered in a well-supported clade with another 18 sequences that included Karyolysus galloti and Karyolysus lacazei. Morphological evidence also supported that K. bicapsulatus clustered in this monophyletic clade. These results supported the taxonomic validity of the genus. In addition, we found some parasite haplotypes that infected different lizard host genera with ancient diverging histories, which suggested that Karyolysus is less host-specific than other blood parasites of lizards in the region. A co-phylogenetic analysis supported this interpretation because no significant co-speciation signal was shown between Karyolysus and lizard hosts.
Megia-Palma, R. & Martinez, J. & Merino, S. (2014) -
Megia-Palma, R. & Martinez, J. & Merino, S. (2016) -
Pigment-based ornaments in vertebrates may reflect the body condition or health status of the individual in correlation with environmental stress and hormonal balance. Among the environmental factors shaping sexual colouration, parasitic infections have been stressed as an important evolutionary pressure constraining the maintenance of pigment-based ornaments. However, the honesty of structure-based ornaments in vertebrates is still under debate. Structural UV-biased ornaments in Gallotia lizards were described as a trait used by conspecifics during mate and rival assessment suggesting the reliability of these signals. We investigated the relationship between parasitaemia, body condition and a structural-based ornament present in the cheek of the sexually dichromatic Canarian lacertid Gallotia galloti in a population with an almost 100 % prevalence of haemoparasites. Using spectrophotometric techniques, we found that males with higher values of cheek UV chroma were infected with more haemoparasites. No significant relationship was found between haemoparasite load and body condition. However, males with higher cheek UV chroma showed significantly better body condition. In addition, we found that cheek hue was significantly related to body condition of individuals in both sexes. In males, cheek reflectivity biased towards the UV range was significantly related to better body condition. In females, those individuals with better body condition showed more whitish cheeks with less UV suggesting that cheek hue serves as an intersexual signal for sex recognition. We conclude that the positive relationship between cheek chroma and parasite load in male lizards is compatible with both differential density of melanin and iridophore arrangement in the dermis conveying an individual’s ability to cope with environmental stress.
Host species in populations under strong pressures from parasitic diseases may evolve ornaments to signal individual host quality to conspecifics. Colour ornaments in lizards result from the interaction of different layers in the skin. When inner layers of melanin and well-arranged iridophores are combined, UV-blue structural colouration results. On the other hand, when layers of erythrophores are densely loaded with carotenoids, a UV-yellow colouration is seen. The expression of carotenoid-based traits has been frequently studied in relation to parasite infections. However, few studies have explored the relationship between parasitic diseases and structural colouration. In this study, we investigated the expression of UV-blue and UV-yellow throat colour patches in males of Lacerta schreiberi in relation to infection by haemoparasites, ixodid ticks and intestinal nematodes. The brightness of the UV-yellow throat patch (a carotenoid-based ornament) was positively correlated with body condition and negatively correlated with the number of attached ticks, supporting Hamilton and Zuk’s hypothesis. Additionally, individuals that passed nematode eggs in the faeces had UV-yellow throat patches with higher hue values (more greenish colouration). Strikingly, the individuals infected by haemoparasites of the genus Schellackia showed UV-blue throat patches (a melanin-based ornament) with higher values of both UV-blue chroma and hue (i.e., UV-biased throats) than did uninfected individuals, suggesting a key role for melanin in the nuptial colouration of this lizard species. Thus, the combined information from both UV-blue and UV-yellow throat patches may convey integrative information about individual quality in this lacertid species. Significance statement In this study, we present evidence that the striking throat colouration in males of the endemic Iberian green lizard is related to the presence or load of different parasites. The ornament is composed of one UV-yellow patch and one UV-blue patch, which were differentially related to the presence of different parasitic diseases in the individual hosts. These results suggest that different parasitic diseases may differentially constrain the expression of these colour patches. Moreover, the combined display of the two throat patches simultaneously may convey to conspecifics integrative information about the individual quality of the Iberian green lizard.
Megia-Palma, R. & Martinez, J. & Merino, S. (2018) -
The honesty of structural-based ornaments is controversial. Sexual selection theory predicts that the honesty of a sexual signal relies on its cost of production or maintenance. Therefore, environmental factors with negative impact on individuals could generate high costs and affect the expression of these sexual signals. In this sense, parasites are a main cost for their hosts. To probe the effect of parasites on the structural-based coloration of a lacertid species Lacerta schreiberi, we have experimentally removed ticks from a group of male Iberian green lizards using an acaricide treatment (i.e., the broad-use insecticide fipronil). All individuals were radio-tracked and recaptured after 15 days to study changes in coloration in both the ultraviolet (UV)-blue (structural-based) and UV-yellow (structural and pigment-based) ornamentations after manipulation, as well as changes in endo- and ectoparasitic load and body condition. Additionally, after the experiment, we measured the skin inflammatory response to a mitogen. The fipronil treatment was effective in reducing ticks and it was associated with a significant reduction of hemoparasite load. Throughout the season, individuals treated with fipronil tended to maintain the brightness of the UV-blue throat coloration while control lizards tended to increase it. However, individuals treated with fipronil that were not infected with hemoparasites significantly reduced the brightness of the UV-blue throat coloration. Individuals with a higher initial tick load exhibited a lower UV saturation increment (UV-blue) and a higher brightness increment (UV-yellow) during the experiment. Overall these results experimentally support the idea that parasites adversely influence the expression of the structural-based coloration of male Iberian green lizards. This adds evidence to the hypothesis that sexual ornaments in lizards function as honest signals.
Megia-Palma, R. & Merino, S. & Barrientos, R. (2022) -
Ontogeny is expected to be a determinant factor affecting production of colour patches in lizards, while immune challenges or sudden weight loss may impair the maintenance of pigment-based coloration within a breeding season. We translocated males of the lizard Psammodromus algirus between two sampling plots that differed in distance to a road, vegetation structure, and predator abundance. We analysed variation in spectral reflectance of their colour patches the same and the following year. The change in the reflectance of the lizard colour patches within the first breeding season was explained by the interaction between plot and treatment, but not body condition. The maintenance of the breeding coloration was impaired only in those males translocated close to the road, probably reflecting that it is a poor-quality habitat for P. algirus. The following year, lizards that produced a more elaborate coloration were those that increased their body condition and controlled some parasitic infections, although suffered an increase of others. This study shows that colour patch production is plastic in P. algirus. Lizards increasing parasites or losing weight reduced pigmentation, although habitat quality can cushion these negative effects on pigmentation. However, not all parasites constrain the investment in coloration. In fact, some increased in those lizards that allocated more pigments to colour patches. In conclusion, longitudinal studies following experimental manipulation can contribute to understand pigment allocation rules in lizards.
Megia-Palma, R. & Palomar, G. & Martinez, J. & Antunes, B. & Dudek, K. & Zagar, A. & Serén, N. & Carretero, M.A. & Babik, W. & Merino, S. (2024) -
Host abundance might favour the maintenance of a high phylogenetic diversity of some parasites via rapid transmission rates. Blood parasites of insular lizards represent a good model to test this hypothesis because these parasites can be particularly prevalent in islands and host lizards highly abundant. We applied deep amplicon sequencing and analysed environmental predictors of blood parasite prevalence and phylogenetic diversity in the endemic lizard Gallotia galloti across 24 localities on Tenerife, an island in the Canary archipelago that has experienced increasing warming and drought in recent years. Parasite prevalence assessed by microscopy was over 94%, and a higher proportion of infected lizards was found in warmer and drier locations. A total of 33 different 18s rRNA parasite haplotypes were identified, and the phylogenetic analyses indicated that they belong to two genera of Adeleorina (Apicomplexa: Coccidia), with Karyolysus as the dominant genus. The most important predictor of betweenlocality variation in parasite phylogenetic diversity was the abundance of lizard hosts. We conclude that a combination of climatic and host demographic factors associated with an insular syndrome may be favouring a rapid transmission of blood parasites among lizards on Tenerife, which may favour the maintenance of a high phylogenetic diversity of parasites.
Megia-Palma, R.M. (2016) -
Megia, R. (2012) -
Méhely, L. (1888) -
Méhely, L. (1895) -
Méhely, L. (1896) -
Méhely, L. (1901) -
Méhely, L. (1903) -
Méhely, L. (1904) -
Méhely, L. (1905) -
Mehely, L. (1907) -
Méhely, L. (1907) -
Méhely, L. (1909) -
Mehely, L. (1910) -
Méhely, L. (1910) -
Méhely, L. von (1909) -
Meijer, R.M. (1963) -
A description of the beautiful island of Corsica and of its richness of reptiles and amphibians. The lizard which is most frequently found in the island, Lacerta muralis tiliguerta, is a splendid animal he met with everywhere. In the mountains, above 1000 meters, he found the likewise very fine lizard Lacerta bedriagae bedriagae wtth the cobalt blue lateral shields. This species is very alert and hard to get. Especially in moist regions the most individuals are to be found. Amphibians were plentiful in the neighbourhood of Calvi (N. Corsica). Tadpoles were found of Hyla arborea sarda (de B e t t a), and of Discoglossus pictus sardus T s c h u d i, together with young Buto viridis viridis Laurenti. Also near Calvi Emys orbicularis L i n n e and a lot of grass snakes were found. If anyone might go to Corsica on herpetological purposes he should visit the reservoir near Argentella, for there is a real meeting place of reptiles and amphibians.
Meijide, M.W. (1981) -
Meijide, M.W. (1985) -
Meik, J.M. & Jeoc, R.M. & Mendelson III, J.R. & Jenks, K.E. (2002) -
ush encroachment is a serious environmental and economic problem in Namibia, but little is known about impacts on native reptile diversity. Area-confined visual surveys were used to examine a diurnal lizard assemblage in central Namibian commercial ranchlands. Surveys were conducted in plots of open savanna habitat and proximal bush-encroached habitat. The following four species comprised 97.5% of all lizard observations: Pedioplanis undata, Mabuya varia, M. striata, and Lygodactylus bradfieldi. Pedioplanis undata was terrestrial, and the remaining three species were largely arboreal in our study plots. Mabuya varia was found in all savanna plots but was absent from all bush-encroached plots. Two species (P. undata and L. bradfieldi) were less abundant in bush-encroached plots. One species (M. striata) was more abundant in bush-encroached plots than in open savanna plots. Arboreal lizards demonstrated an avoidance to invasive woody plant species. Decreased diversity of habitat structure in bush-encroached habitats appears to influence native savanna lizard assemblages. Our results are consistent with accumulating evidence suggesting that bush encroachment and its associated ecological impacts are reorganizing savanna ecosystems throughout southern Africa.
Meiniel, A. (1975) -
Meiniel, A. & Collin, J.-P. (1970) -
Meiniel, A. & Collin, J.-P. & Hartwig, H.G. (1973) -
The distribution of monoamines (indole- and catecholamines) was studied in the pre- and postnatal pineal organ of the lizard Lacerta vivipara (J.) using fluorescence histochemistry. After formaldehyde treatment, a yellow (U.V.-labile) fluorescence first appears at stage 36 in the parenchyma. The distribution of this fluorescence is considered with regard to cellular differentiation. Microspectrofluorometric analysis of the yellow fluorophores shows a storage of 5-HT, and possibly 5-HTP, in secretory rudimentary photoreceptors throughout life. The fluorescence histochemistry and electron microscopy of the embryonic pineal organ indicates that the “interstitial” cells of the ependymal type play a role in the uptake of tryptophan and 5-HTP (precursors of serotonin). Dark chamber culture of embryos was used to clarify the incorporation and storage of indole compounds. The presence of enzymatic systems, involved in the metabolism of indoleamines is discussed. From stage 39 onwards a green fluorescence can be demonstrated in sympathetic nerve fibres running in the pineal capsule. Microspectrofluorometric analysis of the green fluorophores in the adult showed noradrénaline to be the normal neurotransmitter. Evidently the appearance of 5-HT during embryonic life does not depend on the adrenergic innervation of the pineal organ. In normal and experimental series, monoamines could not be demonstrated in the embryonic pariétal eye.
Meiniel, A. & Collin, J.-P. & Roux, M. (1975) -
After comparison of results obtained by different modalities of 3h-5HTP injections (involving intraallantodic, intraventricular and intraperitoneal injections), the intraperitoneal one was retaineed to study experimental cytochemcal biosynthesis of indoleamines, in the epiphysis of Lacerta vivpara J., during ontogenesis. From stage 36 of embryogenesis, the selective radioautographic labelling, significant of atritiated indoleamines storage, was located in the distal part of the epiphysis. From stage 36 to 40 (just before hatching) and 3 days after hatching, microscopic and microphotometric studies point out, in the epiphysis epithelium, a highly significant increase in tritiated infoleamines rate. In contrast, the weak nonspecific reactions, in the neighbouring brain structures (dorsal telencephalon, tectum opticum and paraphysis), stay constant. The metabolism and storage sites of indoleamines belong to sensory line cells. During ontogenesis, these sites appear successively in distal, middle and proximal epiphysis and from the basal to the upper part of the sensory line cells. The embryonic parietal eye, in spite of structural analogies, does not take up the radioactive compound.
Meinig, H. (1994) -
Observations concerning the ecology and distribution of the lacertid lizard species Acanthodactylus masirae and A. schmidti from southeastern Oman are reported along wi th new localities forA. masirae in the Wahiba Sands and in the Barr al Hikman. The herpetofauna found in the distribution areas of both species in Oman is presented.
Meinig, H. & Böhme, W. (2002) -
Despite the recently considerably increased knowledge of the distribution range of Acanthodactylus guineensis, scalation characters of all available specimens (67 specimens) of this rare lacertid lizard reveal no geographically correlated variation. A. guineensis, ranging from Mali to Cameroon, has to be regarded as monotypic. A lectotype is designated for Eremias benuensis Monard, 1949, a synonym of A. guineensis.
Meinig, H. & Rathjen, H. (1996) -
Meinig, H. & Schlüpmann, M. (1987) -
Report on two excursions to the Iberian Peninsula in 1981 and 1982: Pyrenees, Cantabrian Mountains, Galicia, Peneda-Geres (Portugal), Chaves (Northeast of Portugal), Monfragüe (Estremadura), Andalusia, East-Algarve, Toledo and Argeles sur Mer (South-France). A total of 37 species of amphibians and reptiles could be observed (urodelans 6, anurans 8, chelonians 1, lizards 14 and snakes 8). The visited areas are briefly characterized in terms of their herpetocoenosis. Information on habitat requirements, partly also on body measurements of the species recorded are given. New data on the range limits of Lacerta schreiberei, L. lepida, L. vivipara, L. monticola and Psammodromus algirus are given. A syntopic occurrence of Coronella austriaca and C. girondica in the Cantabrian Mountains was found. C. girondica is recorded for the first time in Asturia. A remarkable finding in the Cantabrian Mountains was a melanistic Aesculapian Snake (Elaphe longissima). This is the second record of this species in Spain. In these Northern Spanish highlands the breeding season of the amphibians is extended into summer. In North Portugal we observed Natrix maura eating Chioglossa lusitanica.
Meiri, S. (2008) -
Aim Body size is instrumental in influencing animal physiology, morphology, ecology and evolution, as well as extinction risk. I examine several hypotheses regarding the influence of body size on lizard evolution and extinction risk, assessing whether body size influences, or is influenced by, species richness, herbivory, island dwelling and extinction risk. Location World-wide. Methods I used literature data and measurements of museum and live specimens to estimate lizard body size distributions. Results I obtained body size data for 99% of the world`s lizard species. The body size–frequency distribution is highly modal and right skewed and similar distributions characterize most lizard families and lizard assemblages across biogeographical realms. There is a strong negative correlation between mean body size within families and species richness. Herbivorous lizards are larger than omnivorous and carnivorous ones, and aquatic lizards are larger than non-aquatic species. Diurnal activity is associated with small body size. Insular lizards tend towards both extremes of the size spectrum. Extinction risk increases with body size of species for which risk has been assessed. Main conclusions Small size seems to promote fast diversification of disparate body plans. The absence of mammalian predators allows insular lizards to attain larger body sizes by means of release from predation and allows them to evolve into the top predator niche. Island living also promotes a high frequency of herbivory, which is also associated with large size. Aquatic and nocturnal lizards probably evolve large size because of thermal constraints. The association between large size and high extinction risk, however, probably reflects a bias in the species in which risk has been studied.
Meiri, S. (2016) -
The pace of new reptile species descriptions, especially of new lizard descriptions, is rapidly increasing. The number of recognized lizard species has increased by more than 30% since the turn of the century. I examine the traits of newly-described lizard taxa, and compare them to those of species described earlier, to predict where new species will be found, what traits they have, and whether they are likely to be more extinction-prone than well-known species. I compiled data on the biogeography and ecology of newly-described lizards and examine the relationship between their traits and their date of description. New descriptions are generally of small species, predominantly with small geographical ranges. Most ‘new’ species have been described from the Oriental Realm, while few new species were described from Africa. Interestingly, rates of species description are lowest in the Mediterranean biome – <8% of the standing diversity of lizards that have the majority of their range in Mediterranean biomes the world-over was described this century. Only six lizard species were described in the Mediterranean biome within the Mediterranean basin (others were described in the Mediterranean parts of Australia, South Africa, North America and Chile). These were almost invariably the results of splitting well-known forms. There has probably been only one real new discovery of a lizard in the Mediterranean biome of the Mediterranean Basin this century (Asaccus barani). Eight Mediterranean Basin lizard species were described in the desert biome. These numbers stand in stark contrast to the accelerating species description rates in much of the rest of the world. I take this to mean that the lizard fauna of Mediterranean regions in general and that of the Mediterranean basin in particular is probably almost completely known. Future descriptions will likely be the results of eroding species recognition criteria.
Meiri, S. (2018) -
Meiri, S. & Bauer, A.M. & Chirio, L. & Colli, G.R. & Das, I. & Doan, T.M. & Feldman, A. & Herrera, F.-C. & Novosolov, M. & Pafilis, P. Pincheira-Donoso, D. & Powney, G. & Torres-Carvajal, O. & Uetz, P. & Van Damme, R. (2013) -
Aim Temperature influences most components of animal ecology and life history – but what kind of temperature? Physiologists usually examine the influence of body temperatures, while biogeographers and macroecologists tend to focus on environmental temperatures. We aim to examine the relationship between these two measures, to determine the factors that affect lizard body temperatures and to test the effect of both temperature measures on lizard life history. Location World-wide. Methods We used a large (861 species) global dataset of lizard body temperatures, and the mean annual temperatures across their geographic ranges to examine the relationships between body and mean annual temperatures.We then examined factors influencing body temperatures, and tested for the influence of both on ecological and life-history traits while accounting for the influence of shared ancestry. Results Body temperatures and mean annual temperatures are uncorrelated. However, accounting for activity time (nocturnal species have low body temperatures), use of space (fossorial and semi-aquatic species are ‘colder’), insularity (mainland species are ‘hotter’) and phylogeny, the two temperatures are positively correlated. High body temperatures are only associated with larger hatchlings and increased rates of biomass production. Annual temperatures are positively correlated with clutch frequency and annual longevity, and negatively correlated with clutch size, age at first reproduction and longevity. Main conclusions Lizards with low body temperatures do not seem to have ‘slower’ life-history attributes than species with high body temperatures. The longer seasons prevalent in warm regions, and physiological processes that operate while lizards are inactive (but warm enough), make environmental temperatures better predictors of lizard life-history variation than body temperatures. This surprisingly greater effect of environmental temperatures on lizard life histories hints that global warming may have a profound influence on lizard ecology and evolution.
Meiri, S. & Belmaker, A. & Berkowic, D. & Kazes, K. & Maza, E. & Bar-Oz, G. & Dor, R. (2019) -
Faunal lists are important tools in ecology, biogeography, and conservation planning. Such lists can identify gaps in our knowledge of the distribution and taxonomy of regional faunas, and highlight issues needing further study. We present an up to date list of all land vertebrates occurring in Israel. We identify 786 species, of which 551 are birds, 130 are mammals, 97 are reptiles and eight are amphibians. Of these 369 species breed in Israel (including reintroductions), 199 (mostly birds) are regular visitors and 182 are accidental. Fourteen other species are invasive, and 22 species are extinct. We identify issues with the taxonomy and status of several species, and note recent developments in our understanding the Israeli land vertebrate fauna.
Meiri, S. & Brown, J.H. & Sibly, R.M. (2011) -
Aim We provide a new quantitative analysis of lizard reproductive ecology. Comparative studies of lizard reproduction to date have usually considered life-history components separately. Instead, we examine the rate of production (productivity hereafter) calculated as the total mass of offspring produced in a year. We test whether productivity is influenced by proxies of adult mortality rates such as insularity and fossorial habits, by measures of temperature such as environmental and body temperatures, mode of reproduction and activity times, and by environmental productivity and diet. We further examine whether low productivity is linked to high extinction risk. Location World-wide. Methods We assembled a database containing 551 lizard species, their phylogenetic relationships and multiple life history and ecological variables from the literature. We use phylogenetically informed statistical models to estimate the factors related to lizard productivity. Results Some, but not all, predictions of metabolic and life-history theories are supported. When analysed separately, clutch size, relative clutch mass and brood frequency are poorly correlated with body mass, but their product – productivity – is well correlated with mass. The allometry of productivity scales similarly to metabolic rate, suggesting that a constant fraction of assimilated energy is allocated to production irrespective of body size. Island species were less productive than continental species.Mass-specific productivity was positively correlated with environmental temperature, but not with body temperature. Viviparous lizards were less productive than egg-laying species. Diet and primary productivity were not associated with productivity in any model. Other effects, including lower productivity of fossorial, nocturnal and active foraging species were confounded with phylogeny. Productivity was not lower in species at risk of extinction. Main conclusions Our analyses show the value of focusing on the rate of annual biomass production (productivity), and generally supported associations between productivity and environmental temperature, factors that affect mortality and the number of broods a lizard can produce in a year, but not with measures of body temperature, environmental productivity or diet.
Meiri, S., Bauer, A.M., Allison, A., et al. (2017) -
Aim: Small geographic ranges make species especially prone to extinction from an- thropogenic disturbances or natural stochastic events. We assemble and analyse a comprehensive dataset of all the world’s lizard species and identify the species with the smallest ranges—those known only from their type localities. We compare them to wide-ranging species to infer whether specific geographic regions or biological traits predispose species to have small ranges. Location: Global. Methods: We extensively surveyed museum collections, the primary literature and our own field records to identify all the species of lizards with a maximum linear geo- graphic extent of <10 km. We compared their biogeography, key biological traits and threat status to those of all other lizards. Results: One in seven lizards (927 of the 6,568 currently recognized species) are known only from their type localities. These include 213 species known only from a single specimen. Compared to more wide-ranging taxa, they mostly inhabit relatively inaccessible regions at lower, mostly tropical, latitudes. Surprisingly, we found that burrowing lifestyle is a relatively unimportant driver of small range size. Geckos are especially prone to having tiny ranges, and skinks dominate lists of such species not seen for over 50 years, as well as of species known only from their holotype. Two- thirds of these species have no IUCN assessments, and at least 20 are extinct. Main conclusions: Fourteen per cent of lizard diversity is restricted to a single location, often in inaccessible regions. These species are elusive, usually poorly known and little studied. Many face severe extinction risk, but current knowledge is inadequate to properly assess this for all of them. We recommend that such species become the focus of taxonomic, ecological and survey efforts.
Meiro, S: & Pafilis, P. (2013) -
Islands are usually species-poor and insular animal communities likewise usually harbour fewer species than equivalent mainland communities. Intraspecific competition on islands is therefore usually weaker than it is on the mainland. Predation pressure often also decreases on islands, and some in many instances some insular organisms face no predators at all. Faced with such relaxed predation and competition pressures insular animals can evolve to exploit the wider resource spectrum than they can access in more species-rich environments. An extension of this scenario, called the “niche variation hypothesis”, results in populations of depauperate communities evolving greater morphological variability. This variability is often thought to manifest itself in enhanced sexual size dimorphism, with the larger sex growing larger still, whereas individuals of the smaller sex grow smaller, so as to reduce intra-specific competition. A clear prediction of this theory is therefore that communities with more competitors or predators will be less dimorphic. We tested this by measuring the sexual size dimorphism (SSD) of two Podarcis species in two Aegean archipelagos. We measured SVLs of female and male lizards across many islands and examined it against the number of other lacertid lizards, the number all lizards, and the numbers of snake species on each island. For each species (Podarcis gaigeae, 16 islands; P. erhardii, 27 islands) we also examined whether the presence, rather than the number of lacertids, lizards, and snakes, affects the degree of SSD. Podarcis gaigeae was, on average, more dimorphic than P. erhardii (males 14% longer vs. 6%). In neither species, however, was the degree of SSD affected by either the number or the presence of snakes, lacertid lizards or lizards in general. We conclude that on small islands lacking other reptiles the resource base is likely more limited as well, and thus does not allow the sexes to diverge to specialize on different-sized prey.
Meisner, F. (1820) -
Meister, S. (2008) -
Meister, S. & Micheel, Y. & Hachtel, M. & Böhme, W. (2009) -
Ein häufig zu beobachtender Parasitismus bei der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) ist der Befall durch Zecken, der bei einzelnen Individuen massive Formen annehmen kann. In Deutschland handelt es sich zumeist um den Gemeinen Holzbock (Ixodes ricinus). Die direkte Schädigung der Wirte durch Zecken ist als gering einzustufen. Lediglich Sekundärinfektionen von durch Zecken übertragenen Viren, Protozoen oder Bakterien können einen geringen Anteil an der Gesamtsterblichkeit innerhalb von Populationen ausmachen (BLANKE 2004). Während zweier Diplomarbeiten, die in der Saison 2007 im Stadtgebiet von Bonn über die Zauneidechse erstellt wurden (MEISTER 2008, MICHEEL 2008), konnte auch die Parasitierung der Tiere untersucht und mit den Daten anderer Autoren verglichen werden. Aufgrund dessen soll eine Einstufung hinsichtlich der Intensität des Zeckenbefalls in Bonn vorgenommen werden. An 22 der 76 gefangenen Zauneidechsen konnte der gemeine Holzbock festgestellt werden. Dies entspricht einer Befallquote von fast 30 %. Die Schmarotzer wurden fast ausschließlich an der dünnhäutigen Basis der Vorderbeine vorgefunden. Lediglich eine der befallenen Eidechsen wurde zudem am Kopf parasitiert, ein Jungtier in der Körpermitte (Abb. 1).
Mejias, R. & Amengual, J. (2000) -
Mekinic, S. & Piasevoli, G. & Vladovic, D. & Zevrnja, N. & Simic, L. & Damjanovic, T. (2018) -
Melani, E. (2007) -
Melendro, J. & Gisbert, J. (1976) -
Melero, M. & Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2014) -
Meliadou, A. & Provatidou, S. & Valakos, E. (1999) -
Meliadou, A. & Troumbis, A.Y. (1997) -
In the western Palearctic, species richness decreases with increasing latitude for amphibians and reptiles. Hotspots are found in the southermost parts of tile area for reptiles, while for amphibians they are in western middle latitude parts. Rapoport`s rule predicts that species range increases with latitude and that hotspots contain many species of small range. Both prediction are upheld in the case of reptiles, but the hotspots for amphibians contain mostly widespread species. Most amphibian species of small range are found in southern areas. The seasonal climatic variation hypothesis that has been proposed as an explanation for Rapoport`s rule is not verified for the Palearctic herpetofauna.
Melkumyan, L.S. (1981) -
Melkumyan, L.S. (1983) -
The growth rate was studied in L. strigata which occurs on different heights, from semideserts to mountain steppes of Armenia. It was established that in mountains the growth rate increased two-fold. The total duration of the active life of lizards from the mountain and foothill populations is about the same. The lizards of the mountain population reproduce 4-5 times during their life and those of the foothills reproduce 2 times.
Melkumyan, L.S. (1985) -
Мелкумян, Л.С. (1985) -
Melkumyan, L.S. (1987) -
Мелкумян, Л.С. (1987) -
Melkumyan, L.S. & Torosyan, Y.G. (1988) -
Мелкумян, Л.С. & Торосян, Е.Г. (1988) -
Mell, H. & Josserand, R. & Decencière, B. & Artacho, P. & Meylan, S. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2016) -
Stable differences in physiology among individuals may facilitate the evolution of consistent individual differences in behavior. In particular, according to the pace-of-life syndrome (POLS) hypothesis, individual variation in metabolic expenditure and stress physiology should be linked with exploration, aggression, or risk-taking behaviors. Previous studies have uncovered stable individual differences in metabolic expenditure and circulating glucorticoids in common lizards (Zootoca vivipara). We tested the correlations between standard metabolic rates (SMR), glucorticoid stress response, and behavioral traits (activity, aggressiveness, risk taking, and sociability) in males. In ectotherms, the thermal dependence of SMR should be included in the POLS hypothesis; we therefore measured SMR at three temperatures from rest to preferred body temperature. Activity, aggressiveness, and risk taking, but not sociability, exhibited significant, short-term repeatability, and little correlation was found between behavioral traits. The SMR of lizards with a low metabolism at rest increased faster with body temperature. The SMR at rest was negatively correlated with behavioral variation in sociability and activity but not with risk-taking behavior. In addition, the plasma corticosterone level after an acute handling stress increased slightly but not significantly with aggressiveness. We discuss alternative interpretations for these relationships and conclude that the link between inter-individual variation in physiology and behavior is trait-dependent in the common lizard.
Mell, R. (1929) -
Mell, R. & Unterstein, W. & Ahl, E. & Hanberg, H. (1929) -
Mellado, J. & Dakki, M. (1988) -
The authors present an actualized and commented list of the amphibia and reptilia species noted in Morocco. The changes witch happened during the 16years after the last checklist established by BoNS(1972) are discussed. These are new additions (species recently discovered in Morocco and new taxa for Science, sorne of witch resulting from systematic modifications of other species or subspecies) and changes of names (new combinations) or status. Problems concerning the exact delimitation of several species are discussed, insisting particularly on the most conflictual groups (e.g. Chalcides, Aoenthodactylus). Thus we think that the number of species in the present checklist is probably surestimated. Taking in account these problems, we must consider this inventory as provisional, till clearing up the several questions still in suspense.
Mellado, J. & Martinez, F. (1974) -
Mellado, J. & Mateo, J.A. (1992) -
Mellado, J. & Olmedo, G. (1981) -
Mellado, J. & Olmedo, G. (1987) -
This note describes general patterns of winter activity in lizard populations along a latitudinal gradient with an approximate range of twelve degrees (26 to 38°N) in southern Europe and North Africa. We make use of qualitative data gathered through the last ten years in the area, as well as much more accurate quantitative data obtained from periodic censuses covering the whole year cicle in certain populations. Results allow us to impute a great importance to the activity observed in the unfavourable season. This activity seems to be an attribute at the population level and shows a great variability between and within species and populations.
Mellado, J. & Olmedo, G. (1990) -
Small samples of Acanthodactylus lizards were collected throughout the range of both A. pardalis and A. scutellatus species groups in Morocco. A selected set of external characters was analyzed in an attempt to discriminate the species currently recognized within these groups. The analysis shows that there are severe difficulties in accurately identifying different species in the A. pardalis complex, and only A. aureus and, perhaps, A. dumerili can be clearly separated in the A. scutellatus complex. Trends of changes in the character states involved sugest a pattern of irregular (non-clinal) variation at the micro and macrogeographic scales, precluding the accurate identification of most populations and obscuring the phylogenetic relationships within species groups in this area.
Mellado, J. & Olmedo, G. (1991) -
Patterns of space use in the four sand lizard (Acanthodactylus) species groups living in Morocco (A. erythrurus, A. boskianus, A. pardalis and A. scutellatus) have been analysed. The use of space has been described using 16 environmental variables recorded in 82 plots situated throughout the study area. A principal component analysis was used to report the relationships between variables and plots. Univariate and multivariate (discriminant) analyses were used to describe specific patterns of space use and interspecific differences among lizards. The species richness observed was much lower than expected from the distribution ranges on a regional scale
Mellado, J. & Olmedo, G. (1992) -
Home range features are fairly well known in iguanid lizards (Rose 1982), but not in lacertid species (see e.g., NICHOLSON & SPELLENBERG 1989). This paper shows preliminary results about home range structure in Podarcis sicula, which is perhaps the most relevant species within this widespread genus of small active foraging lizards, showing complex patterns in habitat use, activity levels, social organization and population structure (OLMEDO et al. 1984, MELLADO 1985).
Mellado, J. & Olmedo, G. & Quirós, C.F. (1981) -
Melnikov, D.A. (2011) -
The distribution of steppe-runners in the surveyed region depends on the presence of sandy substrates. Eremias arguta inhabits sandy steppes with low vegetation. The northern distribution limit of steppe- runners in the south of European Russia lies about 50 – 53°N. The morphological character of steppe- runners there shows both cline and discrete variations. The cline variations are independent in the Don and Volga basins, which supports the idea of past distribution ways of the species. A gradient of discrete characters also occurs in the Don and Volga interfluves. There are some populations in the Taman penin- sula and Daghestan which are characterized by a unique combination of characters. Some individuals from the right-side Volga-river populations are characterized by a morphology intermediate between E. a. arguta and E. a. deserti, because of the intergradation zone adjacency. Substrate «loose sand» and «im- movable sand» forms in the Middle Don-river populations were discovered.
Мельников Д.А. (2011) -
В результате проведенного исследования удалось установить, что распространение вида на территории России определяется наличием песчаных грунтов. Разноцветная ящурка населяет песчаные степи ранних стадий зарастания. Северная граница распространения вида на исследуемой территории проходит примерно на 50 - 53° с.ш. Разноцветная ящурка на территории Европейской части России имеет сложную популяционную структуру. Количественные и качественные признаки характеризуются клинальной и дискретной изменчивостью. Клинальная изменчивость выражена в бассейнах Дона и Волги независимо - в прошлом продвижение вида на север происходило по пескам речных долин. Перепад частот дискретных признаков также наблюдается в Волго-Донском междуречье. Имеются изолированные популяции вида, характеризующиеся особым сочетанием признаков на Таманском полуострове и на Червленых Бурунах. У особей некоторых популяций разноцветной ящурки с правобережья Волги имеются признаки промежуточного характера между западным и номинативным подвидами - это обусловлено близостью зоны интерградации этих подвидов. На песках Среднего Дона у разноцветной ящурки есть эдафические формы, соответствующие условиям обитания на сыпучих или закрепленных песках.
Melville, R.V. (1981) -
Mencia Rodriguez, A. (2016) -
Mencía, A. & Ortega, Z. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2016) -
Alien predators may impose a great threat to naïve preys. Podarcis pityusensis lizards live in Ibiza, a snake-free island until 2003. We studied lizards’ discrimination of scents of two invader snakes: one that predates on lizards, Hemorrhois hippocrepis, and another that does not, Rhinechis scalaris. We compared two populations of P. pityusensis: one from the main island of Ibiza, which coexists with both snakes, and another from the close snake-free islet of Sal Rossa. Lizards from Ibiza recognized the scent of H. hippocrepis and responded with clear antipredator behaviours. However, they reacted to the scent of R. scalaris similarly than to the odorless and the pungent controls. Lizards from Sal Rossa did not recognize any snake species. Thus, lizards can rapidly acquire the ability to react to a totally novel type of predator. There are two possible explanations: (1) rapid evolution of antipredator behavior, and (2) the ability of lizards to learn how to avoid new predators. There have been few generations of lizards since the introduction of snakes, so it would be very fast for evolution to fix antipredator behaviours, although not impossible. Hence, we suggest that these lizards have learnt how to recognize this novel type of predator.
Mencia, A. & Ortega, Z. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2016) -
We conducted an experiment on chemical discrimination of two saurophagous snakes (the smooth snake, Coronella austriaca and the Seoane`s viper, Vipera seoanei) as well as the aquatic Natrix maura, by the mountain lizard Iberolacerta galani. Using terraria, 24 lizards were exposed to scents by the three snakes as well as an odourless control. We quantified fourteen behavioural variables, twelve of which significantly differed among treatments. Lizards are able to recognise the scents of both predatory snakes, and react to them with intense antipredatory responses. The antipredatory behaviour found in I. galani was similar for the scents of the two different predatory snakes, despite differences in their foraging behaviour. The behaviour displayed by lizards confronted with chemical cues suggests an adaptation to minimise the likelihood of being attacked.
Mencía, A. & Ortega, Z. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2017) -
Antipredatory defenses are maintained when benefit exceeds cost. A weak predation pressure may lead insular lizards to tameness. Podarcis lilfordi exhibits a high degree of insular tameness, which may explain its extinction from the main island of Menorca when humans introduced predators. There are three species of lizards in Menorca: the native P. lilfordi, only on the surrounding islets, and two introduced lizards in the main island, Scelarcis perspicillata and Podarcis siculus. In addition, there are three species of snakes, all introduced: one non-saurophagous (Natrix maura), one potentially non-saurophagous (Rhinechis scalaris) and one saurophagous (Macroprotodon mauritani-cus). We studied the reaction to snake chemical cues in five populations: (1) P. lilfordi of Colom, (2) P. lilfordi of Aire, (3) P. lilfordi of Binicodrell, (4) S. perspicillata, and (5) P. siculus, ordered by increasing level of predation pressure. The three snakes are present in the main island, while only R. scalaris is present in Colom islet, Aire and Binicodrell being snake-free islets. We aimed to assess the relationship between predation pressure and the degree of insular tameness regarding scent recognition. We hypothesized that P. lilfordi should show the highest degree of tameness, S. perspicillata should show intermediate responses, and P. siculus should show the highest wariness. Results are clear: neither P. lilfordi nor S. perspicillata recognize any of the snakes, while P. siculus recognizes the scent of M. mauritanicus and reacts to it with typical well-defined antipredatory behaviours as tail waving and slow motion. These results rise questions about the loss of chemical recognition of predators during island tameness and its related costs and benefits for lizards of insular habitats. In addition, this highlights the necessity for strong conservation measures to avoid the introduction of alien predators.
Mendes, J. & Harris, D.J. & Carranza, S. & Salvi, D. (2016) -
Estimating the phylogeny of lacertid lizards, and particularly the tribe Lacertini has been challenging, possibly due to the fast radiation of this group resulting in a hard polytomy. However this is still an open question, as concatenated data primarily from mitochondrial markers have been used so far whereas in a recent phylogeny based on a compilation of these data within a squamate supermatrix the basal polytomy seems to be resolved. In this study, we estimate phylogenetic relationships between all Lacertini genera using for the first time DNA sequences from five fast evolving nuclear genes (acm4, mc1r, pdc, bfib and reln) and two mitochondrial genes (nd4 and 12S). We generated a total of 529 sequences from 88 species and used Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methods based on concatenated multilocus dataset as well as a coalescent-based species tree approach with the aimof (i) shedding light on the basal relationships of Lacertini (ii) assessing the monophyly of genera which were previously questioned, and (iii) discussing differences between estimates from this and previous studies based on different markers, and phylogenetic methods. Results uncovered (i) a new phylogenetic clade formed by the monotypic genera Archaeolacerta, Zootoca, Teira and Scelarcis; and (ii) support for the monophyly of the Algyroides clade, with two sister species pairs represented by western (A. marchi and A. fitzingeri) and eastern (A. nigropunctatus and A. moreoticus) lineages. In both cases the members of these groups show peculiar morphology and very different geographical distributions, suggesting that they are relictual groups that were once diverse and widespread. They probably originated about 11–13 million years ago during early events of speciation in the tribe, and the split between their members is estimated to be only slightly older. This scenario may explain why mitochondrial markers (possibly saturated at higher divergence levels) or slower nuclear markers used in previous studies (likely lacking enough phylogenetic signal) failed to recover these relationships. Finally, the phylogenetic position of most remaining genera was unresolved, corroborating the hypothesis of a hard polytomy in the Lacertini phylogeny due to a fast radiation. This is in agreement with all previous studies but in sharp contrast with a recent squamate megaphylogeny. We show that the supermatrix approach may provide high support for incorrect nodes that are not supported either by original sequence data or by new data from this study. This finding suggests caution when using megaphylogenies to integrate inter-generic relationships in comparative ecological and evolutionary studies.
Mendes, J. & Harris, D.J. & Carranza, S. & Salvi, D. (2017) -
Aim To infer the biogeographical and evolutionary history of the Western Mediterranean Psammodromus lizards with the aim of assessing the role of vicariance and dispersal on the cladogenetic events within the palaeogeological dynamics of the Strait of Gibraltar. Location North Africa and Western Europe. Methods We built a dataset including all six species of Psammodromus using mitochondrial (12S, cytb, nd4) and nuclear (acm4, mc1r, pomc) gene fragments. Species tree and concatenation methods were used to infer phylogenetic relationships and divergence times. Phylogenies were used for biogeographical inference using S-DIVA, DEC and BBM. Results Psammodromus probably originated in Iberia, with P. algirus diverging early. The ancestor of the African P. blanci and P. microdactylus dispersed to Africa through the Betic-Rif massif, c. 10 Ma. The cladogenetic events within Africa and Iberia were probably due to vicariance mediated by habitat and climatic changes at the end of the Miocene (P. blanci and P. microdactylus) and during the Pliocene (P. occidentalis, P. hispanicus and P. edwardsianus). Psammodromus algirus shows three lineages, two in Iberia and one in Africa, the latter originated following a transmarine dispersal during the Middle Pleistocene (1.5 Ma). Main conclusions Over-sea dispersal has played a major role in intercontinental exchange and divergence in Psammodromus, with two dispersal events towards Africa that occurred 10 and 1.5 Ma resulting in the African lineages. This study, combined with previous literature, provides compelling evidence that major biotic exchanges took place across the Strait of Gibraltar well before or long after the land connection during the Messinian Salinity Crisis (MSC, 5.9–5.33 Ma). These findings suggest caution in the application of the relatively short event of Atlantic flooding at the end of the MSC as cause for divergence in molecular clock calibrations, which is a popular approach in literature.
Mendes, J. & Pous, P. de & Salvi, D. & Metallinou, M. & Harris, D.J. & Salvador, A. & Carranza, S. (2014) -
A total of 2729 base pairs from three mitochondrial (12S, ND4 and CYTB) and two nuclear (C‐MOS, MC1R) genes were used to assess the molecular diversity and phylogenetic structure of the two Omanosaura lacertid lizards endemic to the Hajar Mountains in Northern Oman. Sequence data from fifteen samples of O. jayakari and five of O. cyanura were analyzed using Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference phylogenetic methods, haplotype networks, and molecular dating. Our divergence time estimates suggest that the two species diverged around 8 million years ago (Mya). Mitochondrial sequence data show that the genetic diversity within O. jayakari is very low. Phylogenetic analyses support a partition into two clades without a clear geographic association across the Hajar Mountains, their split dating back to approximately 0.31 Mya. On the other hand, O. cyanura presents three relatively deep lineages associated with three geographic regions of the mountains: lineage 1, restricted to the Musandam Peninsula in the extreme north of the mountain range; lineage 2, including only one sample located in the Western Hajars; and lineage 3, including two samples from the Jebel Akhdar, the highest part of the Mountains, situated between the Western and Eastern Hajars. According to our time estimates, lineage 1 diverged from the other two lineages around 3.95 Mya, and lineages 2 and 3 would have diverged approximately 2.44 Mya. Nuclear data confirm the genetic homogeneity of O. jayakari and the high genetic diversity within O. cyanura. More samples of O. cyanura from undersampled areas will be needed to confirm the consistency of this pattern.
Mendes, J. & Salvi, D. & Harris, D.J. & Els, J. & Carranza, S. (2018) -
An increase in studies in the Hajar Mountains from the southeastern Arabian Peninsula has revealed a high richness of endemic evolutionary lineages with many cryptic taxa. Omanosaura is the only lacertid lizard genus endemic to the Hajar Mountains, with two species O. cyanura and O. jayakari distributed throughout this mountain range. The phylogenetic relationships and genetic diversity between and within these species have been poorly studied. In this study, we collected mitochondrial (12S, cytb, and nd4) and nuclear (cmos and mc1r) sequences for 25 specimens of Omanosaura, including 15 individuals of O. jayakari and 10 of O. cyanura. We performed phylogenetic analyses based on network reconstruction, maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference to estimate the relationships and intraspecific genetic diversity of these species. We estimated the time of divergence between the two species in the Miocene, around 8.5 million years ago. Omanosaura jayakari shows little genetic diversity, while O. cyanura presents two differentiated lineages. These are reciprocally monophyletic at mitochondrial and nuclear genes and present a high genetic distance between them. These two lineages are associated with the geographic features of the Hajar Mountains, with one lineage distributed in the northernmost part of the Hajar Mountains and the other in the rest of the western Hajars, the Jebel Akhdar, and the eastern Hajars. This geographic relationship has been recovered previously in other reptile taxa and is generally associated with high levels of local genetic diversity. Our results suggest the existence of cryptic diversity within O. cyanura and support a general biogeographic pattern of high diversity and endemism in the northern Hajar Mountains that certainly deserves additional research in the future.
Méndez-Álvarez, A. (2024) -
Mendoza-Roldan, J. & Ravindran Santhakumari Manoj, R. & Latrofa, M.S. & Latta, R. & Annoscia, G. & Lovreglio, P. & Stufano, A. & Dantas-Torres, F. & Davoust, B. & Laidoudi, Y. & Mediannikov, O. & Otranto, D. (2021) -
We assessed the presence of Rickettsia spp., Coxiella burnetii and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in reptiles, their ectoparasites and in questing ticks collected in a nature preserve park in southern Italy, as well as in a peri-urban area in another region. We also investigated the exposure to these pathogens in forestry workers, farmers and livestock breeders living or working in the nature preserve park given the report of anecdotal cases of spotted fever rickettsioses. Rickettsia spp. were molecularly detected in Podarcis muralis and Podarcis siculus lizards (i.e., 3.1%), in Ixodes ricinus (up to 87.5%) and in Neotrombicula autumnalis (up to 8.3%) collected from them as well as in I. ricinus collected from the environment (up to 28.4%). Rickettsia monacensis was the most prevalent species followed by Rickettsia helvetica. An undescribed member of the family Anaplasmataceae was detected in 2.4% and 0.8% of the reptiles and ectoparasites, respectively. Sera from human subjects (n = 50) were serologically screened and antibodies to Rickettsia spp. (n = 4; 8%), C. burnetti (n = 8; 16%) and A. phagocytophilum (n = 11; 22%) were detected. Two ticks collected from two forestry workers were positive for spotted fever group (SFG) rickettsiae. Ixodes ricinus is involved in the transmission of SFG rickettsiae (R. monacensis and R. helvetica) in southern Europe and lizards could play a role in the sylvatic cycle of R. monacensis, as amplifying hosts. Meanwhile, N. autumnalis could be involved in the enzootic cycle of some SFG rickettsiae among these animals. People living or working in the southern Italian nature preserve park investigated are exposed to SFG rickettsiae, C. burnetii and A. phagocytophilum.
Mendoza-Roldan, J.A. & Colella, V. & Nguyen, V.L. & Barros-Battesti, D.M. & Iatta, R. & Dantas-Torres, F. & Otranto, D. (2019) -
Background: Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato) is a complex containing pathogenic bacteria of which some species, such as Borrelia lusitaniae, use birds, small mammals and reptiles as reservoirs. In Italy, the bacteria have been detected in reptilian and avian reservoirs in the northern and central regions. Results: Here, 211 reptiles from three orders [Squamata (Sauria with seven species in five families and Ophidia with 11 species in three families), Crocodylia (one family and two species), and Testudines (two families and two species)] were examined for ectoparasites and molecular detection of B. burgdorferi (s.l.) in three different sites of southern Italy, an area for which no information was previously available on the occurrence of borreliosis in animals and humans. Borrelia lusitaniae was molecularly detected in larvae and nymphs (11.6%) of Ixodes ricinus infesting lizards (i.e. Podarcis muralis, Podarcis siculus and Lacerta bilineata) and in 12.3% blood samples of P. siculus. Finally, B. lusitaniae and Borrelia garinii were detected in 5.1% (32/630) of questing I. ricinus. Conclusions: These results show the circulation of B. lusitaniae in southern Italy and suggest that P. siculus could play a role as a reservoir, representing a potential medical threat to humans living in or visiting these localities.
Mendoza-Roldan, J.A. & Latrofa, M.S. & Iatta, R. & Manoj, R.R.S. & Üanarese, R. & Annoscia, G. & Pombi, M. & Zatelli, A. & Beugnet, F. & Otranto, D. (2021) -
Background: Leishmania tarentolae is a protozoan isolated from geckoes (Tarentola annularis, Tarentola mauritanica), which is considered non pathogenic and is transmitted by herpetophilic Sergentomyia spp. sand flies. This species occurs in sympatry with Leishmania infantum in areas where canine leishmaniasis is endemic. In the present study, we investigated the circulation of L. tarentolae and L. infantum in sand flies, dogs and lizards in a dog shelter in southern Italy, where canine leishmaniasis by L. infantum is endemic. Methods: Sheltered dogs (n = 100) negative for Leishmania spp. (March 2020) were screened by immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) using promastigotes of both species at two time points (June 2020 and March 2021). Whole blood from dogs, tissues of Podarcis siculus lizards (n = 28) and sand flies (n = 2306) were also sampled and tested by a duplex real time PCR (dqPCR). Host blood meal was assessed in sand flies by PCR. Results: Overall, 16 dogs became positive for L. infantum and/or L. tarentolae by IFAT at one or both sampling periods. One canine blood sample was positive for L. infantum, whilst two for L. tarentolae by dqPCR. At the cytology of lizard blood, Leishmania spp. amastigote like forms were detected in erythrocytes. Twenty two tissue samples, mostly lung (21.4%), scored molecularly positive for L. tarentolae, corresponding to 10 lizards (i.e., 35.7%). Of the female Sergentomyia minuta sampled (n = 1252), 158 scored positive for L. tarentolae, four for L. infantum, and one co infected. Two Phlebotomus perniciosus (out of 29 females) were positive for L. tarentolae. Engorged S. minuta (n = 10) fed on humans, and one P. perniciosus, positive for L. tarentolae, on lagomorphs. Conclusions: Dogs and lacertid lizards (Podarcis siculus) were herein found for the first time infected by L. tarentolae. The detection of both L. tarentolae and L. infantum in S. minuta and P. perniciosus suggests their sympatric circulation, with a potential overlap in vertebrate hosts. The interactions between L. tarentolae and L. infantum should be further investigated in both vectors and vertebrate hosts to understand the potential implications for the diagnosis and control of canine leishmaniasis in endemic areas.
Mendoza-Roldan, J.A. & Latrofa, M.S. & Tarallo, V.D. & Manoj, R.R.S. & Bezerra-Santos, M.A. & Annoscia, G. & Iatta, R. & Otrant, D. (2021) -
Leishmania tarentolae is a nonpathogenic trypanosomatid species isolated from geckoes in the Mediterranean basin. In Italy, L. tarentolae and Leishmania infantum occur in sympatry in areas where canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is endemic. Here, we investigated the prevalence and distribution of L. tarentolae in reptilian hosts and the presence of L. infantum in the same animals in southern Italy. From April 2020 to April 2021, lizards and snakes were captured in urban, peri-urban sites, natural parks, and dog shelters. Blood was individually sampled and assessed for the presence of Leishmania spp. by cytology and/or molecular biology. Captured lizards were euthanized and their tissues/organs were tested by duplex real-time-PCR for the detection of L. infantum and L. tarentolae and the positive ones were amplified by conventional PCR to confirm the species identification by sequencing. Samples were also screened by real-time PCR for L. infantum kDNA minicircle. Of the 259 collected Squamata reptiles, 34 (13.1%) specimens scored positive for Leishmania spp., with a prevalence of 10% for L. tarentolae (n=26) and of 3.1% for L. infantum (n=8). Positive lizards were mostly Podarcis siculus (n=26) from dog shelters, with six specimens positive for L. infantum. In addition, L. tarentolae was detected in one Podarcis filfolensis lizard, and in five T. mauritanica geckos (with one gecko and P. filfolensis lizard showing amastigote-like forms in thrombocytes), whereas L. infantum was detected in one T. mauritanica, and one Hemidactylus turcicus. Data herein reported demostrate that saurian reptiles living in CanL endemic areas of the Mediterranean basin may be exposed to both L. tarentolae and L. infantum indicating a sympatric circulation of these species in different vertebrate hosts. Moreover, this study represents the first molecular evidence of L. infantum infection in European reptiles.
Mendyk, R.W. (2007) -
Mendyk, R.W. & Adragna, J. (2014) -
Menendez, S. (2007) -
Ménétries, E. (1832) -
Meng, D.-R. (2001) -
Menge, A. (1850) -
Menne, H.A.L. (1951) -
Menne, H.A.L. (1956) -
Mermet, N. (2003) -
Mert, A. & Kirac, A. (2017) -
Anatololacerta danfordi (Günter, 1876) is an endemic lizard species of the Lacertidae family in Turkey herpetofauna. This lizard species is spreading in the Taurus Mountains and in the appropriate habitats around it. This study was carried out with the aim of determining and mapping suitable habitats for the target species with Maximum Entropy method in Sütçüler (Isparta) region in Western Mediterranean. As a result of the field work between May-October of 2014, 33 present data of this species were obtained. Relationships between the 21 environmental variables and present data of target species, which do not correlate with each other, such as bio climate variables, vegetation indices derived from satellite data or digitized baseline maps, are modeled and mapped by MaxEnt software. According to the habitat suitability model of Anatololacerta danfordi (training data set AUC: 0.916, test data set AUC: 0.898); bedrock, stream density, slope, ruggedness, landform index, radiation index, and land cover/use classes have been the limiting factors in the distribution of Anatololacerta danfordi.
Mert, A. & Kirac, A. (2019) -
Reptiles are key components of Mediterranean ecosystems. Climate change, forest management practices, agricultural activity, land degradation and forest fragmentation represent the greatest threats to reptiles. Therefore, efficient tools are necessary for monitoring these vulnerable species. Habitat suita- bility maps have been found to be valuable tools for the monitoring of reptilian species and conservation, particularly across broad landscapes. This study was undertaken to determine the relations between two species of lizard, (Agamidae) and (Lacertidae) and environmental variables in the Isparta-Sütçüler district (Turkey). Habitat suitability maps were then produced. The re- lationship between the two species and 21 environ- mental variables were analyzed using MaxEnt and mapped with ArcGIS. The study showed that bed- rock, annual precipitation, slope, ruggedness, stream density, topographic position index, land cover/use classes and altitude are predictor variables for mod- elling . The environmental factors that create the optimum habitat suitability model for were bedrock, annual precipita- tion, slope, ruggedness, landform index, land cover/use classes and stream density. In conclusion, we found that environmental variables and geo- graphic information systems can successfully be used to generate habitat suitability maps for and .
Mertens, R. (1915) -
Mertens, R. (1916) -
Mertens, R. (1917) -
Mertens, R. (1918) -
Mertens, R. (1919) -
Mertens, R. (1920) -
Mertens, R. (1921) -
Mertens, R. (1922) -
Mertens, R. (1924) -
Mertens, R. (1925) -
Mertens, R. (1926) -
Mertens, R. (1927) -
Mertens, R. (1928) -
Mertens, R. (1929) -
Mertens, R. (1931) -
Mertens, R. (1932) -
Mertens, R. (1933) -
Mertens, R. (1934) -
Mertens, R. (1935) -
Mertens, R. (1937) -
Mertens, R. (1938) -
Mertens, R. (1942) -
Mertens, R. (1943) -
Mertens, R. (1947) -
Mertens, R. (1952) -
Lacerta princeps kurdistanica ist als Synonym von Lacerta princeps, und Vipera berus ornatus nach Untersuchungen des Typus-Stückes als ein solches von Vipera kaznakowi zu betrachten.
Mertens, R. (1954) -
Mertens, R. (1955) -
Von 13 Liparen-Inseln liegt jetzt Lacerta sicula vor; sie ist auf Alicudi, Filicudi, SaIina, Lipari, Vulcano, Panaria, Basiluzzo und Stromboli am besten zu der Nominatrasse zu stellen. Endemische Rassen hat Lacerta sicula auf Faraglione PolIara bei Salina (Lacerta sicula alvearioi n. subsp.), ferner auf Bottaro, Lisca Bianca und Strombolicchio (bei Stromboli) ausgebildet. Von diesen zeichnet sich die von Faraglione Pollara und Stromboliccbio durch eine erhebliche Verdüsterung der Färbung aus, ohne aber zum Cyanismus zu neigen, während die Bottaro- und namentlich die Lisca Bianca Eidechse eine Tendenz zur Blaufärbung erkennen lassen. Die Strombolicchio-Eidechse ist eine ausgesprochene Riesenrasse, die übrigen sind als mittelgroß bis klein zu bezeichnen. Weder nach der Beschuppung noch nach der Zeichnung kann man die Populationen der größeren Liparen als Rassen trennen; vielmehr lassen die einzelnen Merkmale von Insel zu Insel eine transgressive Variabilität aufs deutlichste erkennen, so daß auch Lacerta sicula strombolensis TADDEI als Synonym von Lacerta s. sicula zu betrachten ist. Ausschließlich auf Vulcano lebt neben Lacerta sicula noch die bisher nur von Sizilien und den Ägaden bekannte Lacerta wagleriana, die hier einer neuen, leicht zum Melanismus neigenden Rasse (antoninoi n. subsp.) angehört. Auf Vulcano bewohnt sie ein ganz bestimmtes Gebiet, dem sicula zwar nicht ganz fehlt, in dem sie aber jedenfalls erheblich zurücktritt. Diese bemerkenswerte Eidechse wirft ein neues Licht auf die Herkunft der Malta- und Linosa-Eidechsen (Lacerta filfolensis), die man bisher auf Grund der Intensivierung der Zeichnungselemente von der - auf Sizilien fehlenden - Lacerta muralis abgeleitet hat. Da aber auch die insulare Lacerta wagleriana auf Vulcano dieselbe Variationstendenz zeigt, ist die Annahme wahrscheinlich, daß Lacerta filfolensis ein Abkömmling von wagleriana ist. Da im Ganzen die Unterschiede der Liparen-Echsen von ihren Stammformen in Sizilien und Unteritalien gering sind, dürften die Lipari-Inseln mit ihrer äußerst armen Herpetofauna nur ein recht geringes geologisches Alter haben.
Mertens, R. (1956) -
Im Anschluß an die in der ersten Folge (1950) veröffentlichten Fälle von Reptilienbastarden werden weitere Bemerkungen über 33 Hybriden gemacht; davon betreffen 5 die Schildkröten und je 1 4 die Eidechsen und Schlangen. Nicht weniger als 14 sind Artbastarde, Die meisten von diesen zeigen einen intermediären Charakter. Es ist bemerkenswert, daß das „erytbronotus`-Merkmal bei Lacerta agilis sich offenbar dominant, das `concolor`-Merkmal bei Lacerta melisellensis fiumana und Lacerta s. sicula dagegen rezessiv vererbt. Eine besondere Beachtung verdient der hypothetische Bastard zwischen Lacerta a. agilis und v. viridis aus Maria Taferl in Niederösterreich sowie die gezogenen Bastarde zwischen Lacerta v. viridis und schreiberi. F1-Bastarde von Natrix n. natrix und n. persa sprechen für die Dominanz des Merkmals „gestreift`.
Mertens, R. (1957) -
Mertens, R. (1958) -
Mertens, R. (1959) -
Die beiden Arten der Gattung Lacerta auf Rhodos werden durch endemische Rassen vertreten: Lacerta trilineata durch diplodtondrodes, Lacerta dantfordi durch pelasgiana n. subsp. Von diplochondrodes wird das eigenartige zwei- bzw. vier- streifige Jugendkleid beschrieben, das bisher kaum von Lacerta trilineata und erst recht nicht von der verwandten Lacerta strigata bekannt war. Die bisher bald als dantfordi, anatolica oder oertzeri bezeichnete pelasgiana wird in die nächste Verwandtsdraft der typischen danfordi vom Cilicischen Taurus sowie von oertzeni aus Nikaria gestellt.
Mertens, R. (1961) -
Mertens, R. (1963) -
Mertens, R. (1964) -
Mertens, R. (1965) -
Mertens, R. (1966) -
Die Insel Montecristo wird nur von einer einzigen Mauereidechsen-Rasse bewohnt: Lacerta sicula calabresiae TADDEI, die auf Grund der Zeichnung und geringen Anzahl von Rückenschuppen als valid zu betrachten ist. Die älteren Angaben über das Vorkommen von Lacerta sicula campestris und Lacerta tiliguerta auf Montecristo sind hinfällig. Doch erscheint es nicht als ausgeschlossen, daß letztere im vergangenen Jahrhundert auf Montecristo neben Lacerta sicula vorkam und dann dort erloschen ist.
Mertens, R. (1967) -
Mertens, R. (1968) -
Die letzte zusammenfassende Obersicht der Malta- Reptilien durch Lanfranco (1955) ist durch Chelonia mydas und Lepidochelys (wahrscheinlich kempii) zu ergiinzen. lm Gegensatz zu seiner und der Auffassung der iilteren Autoren sind die Mauereidechsen Maltas sicherlich keine Rassen von Lacerta 11111ralis, sondern bilden einen eigenen Rassenkreis, der von der sizilianischen Lacerta 1/Nigleriana abzuleiten ist. Da die Originalbe- schreibung von L
Mertens, R. (1969) -
Mertens, R. (1970) -
Mertens, R. (1971) -
Mertens, R. & Müller, L. (1928) -
Mertens, R. & Müller, L. (1940) -
Mertens, R. & Schnurre, O. (1946) -
Die in der Mark Brandenburg an einigen isolierten Stellen noch vorkommende Lacerta viridis ist durch einen breiten und ziemlich hohen Kopf, auffallend kurze Beine, kurze Zehen und einenj ebenfalls kurzen Schwanz sowie eine ziemlich dunkle Gesamtfärbung ausgezeichnet. Trotz dieser Merkmale, die nur als Durchschnittswerte zum Ausdruck kommen, ist es nicht empfehlenswert, sie als eine besondere Rasse abzutrennen, da die Unterschiede gegenüber den benachbarten Populationen, vor allem der topotypischen aus der Wiener Gegend, wenig deutlich sind. Von rheinländischen Stücken weicht die märkische Smaragdeidechse stärker ab; aber auch diese sind ebenfalls als Lacerta viridis viridis zu betrachten. Da die Lebensstätten der märkischen Smaragdeidechse während der Hautvereisungszeiten unbewohnbar waren, handelt es sich bei ihr um einen Einwanderer aus dem Postglazial, der nach dem Oder-Gebiet vermutlich aus dem Donau-Gebiet (und nicht aus Südrussland) vorgestoßen ist. Die kurzen Gliedmaßen und der kurze Schwanz der norddeutschen Tiere können im Sinne der „ALLEN’schen Regel“ gedeutet werden, da auch in anderen Teilen des viridis-Areals eine Verkürzung der hervortretenden Körperteile bei nördlichen Tieren gegenüber den südlichen auftritt. Bei Oderberg und Lieberose in der Mark Brandenburg meidet die Smaragdeidechse die Mittagsonne und zeigt eine Vorliebe für den Aufenthalt am Rande von Landstraßen. In Lieberose ist außerdem ihre Bindung an den Wald (Kiefernheide) deutlich; sie hindert hier Lacerta agilis längs der Wege in den Wald einzudringen. Verschiebungen des Wohnareals (oder Aussterben?) kommen vor. Alle beobachteten Tiere bleiben nicht den ganzen Sommer an je einen bestimmten Schlupfwinkel gebunden, sondern hatten mehrere Verstecke, die von Zeit zu zeit gewechselt wurden. Sie brauchen nicht im Zeitraum des Jagdreviers zu liegen, das vom Versteck auf Entfernungen von 150 m und wahrscheinlich noch mehr durchstreift wird, und zwar stets in der Richtung der Landstraße und niemals tiefer als 120 m in den Wald hinein. Während der Begattungszeit lebt auch die märkischen Smaragdeidechse paarweise, wobei das Weibchen vom Männchen – oder umgekehrt – aufgesucht wird. Eine Begattung wurde am 2. V. um 18 Uhr (Sommerzeit) beobachtet. Ein e Woche später was das Paar bereits aufgelöst, und die Echsen halten sich den ganzen Sommer einzeln auf. Die ersten Jungtiere wurden am 8.IX., die meisten am 3.X. beobachtet. Die letzten erwachsenen Tiere wurden vor dem Winterschlaf am 17.IX.43 (Lieberose) und 24.IX.40 (Oderberg) gesehen.
Mertens, R. & Schnurre, O. (1949) -
Mertens, R. & Wermuth, H. (1960) -
Mertens, R. & Wermuth, H. (1964) -
Mesa-Avila, G. & Molina-Borja, M. (2007) -
The study assessed the behavior of Gallotia bravoana (La Gomera, Canary Islands, one of the world`s most threatened reptiles) to facilitate management decisions and improve welfare during initial stages of a species` recovery plan. The study analyzed--and remote-controlled video cameras filmed-the behavior of lizards housed in 3 outdoor enclosures, from May to September 2000. Daily activity showed a bimodal or unimodal pattern, all specimens basking more during June, with the largest male was the most active. Adults ate a higher percentage of vegetable items; subadults, a comparatively larger proportion of larvae and adult insects. The study analyzed individual compatibility; all interacted during 2 short periods. Aggression occurred mainly between males; because most directed high-intensity aggression toward a specific lizard, the study recommended isolating this lizard in a separate enclosure. The study recommended keeping 2 male-female pairs, who demonstrated social tolerance, as breeding pairs in separated terraria. Typical courtship behavior (head-bob sequences) occurred mainly during July, with highest frequency by the oldest male. Behavioral assessment provided data for improving the individuals` welfare in the enclosures and to select specific pairs for breeding.
Mesloub, M. & Takilt, C. (2018) -
Our work consists in the morphological study of a endemic lizard of North Africa named Psammodromus blanci, in two stations, the first, Loudha Tameqrant to the Akfadou forest massif, the second, the Chellata Pass to the massif mountainous area of Djurdjura. This study is based on the analysis of 44 morphological characters (biometric, scalameter and chromatic), taken from 49 P.blanci specimens, of which 24 are from Loudha Tameqrant and 25 from the Chellata Pass. The data obtained are analyzed by the ANOVA hypothesis test (analysis of the variance) with two factors (habitat * sex), the results are supplemented by the Newman and Keuls test and a PCA. The results do not show a difference between the two populations in terms of the characters studied, but a sexual dimorphism is marked at the level of the head, the limbs and the cloacal cleft.
Meßer, J. & Kladny, M. & Schmitz, G. (2004) -
Messina, F. (2012) -
La specie oggetto di indagine di questa tesi è il Lacertide paleartico Podarcis siculus. Nonostante l’ampiezza del suo areale di distribuzione e la sua elevata densità in molte località, le informazioni in nostro possesso su tale specie sono relativamente scarse. A oggi, è difficile disegnare un quadro esaustivo su morfologia, fisiologia, filogenesi, ecologia e comportamento di questo lacertide. La lucertola campestre presenta una elevata variabilità morfologica e cromatica all’interno dell’areale di distribuzione che si manifesta anche a livello di popolazione. Questo lavoro di tesi è indirizzato a verificare a che livello si esprime la variabilità cromatica della mascella all’interno di due popolazioni del Parco Regionale di Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli. Il lavoro intende valutare se tali differenze di colore siano in relazione al genere, all’età, ai valori morfometrici degli individui e se siano legate a un particolare periodo della vita della lucertola. Si vuole inoltre valutare se le variazioni cromatiche possano corrispondere a segnali significativi nell`ambito della comunicazione intra-sessuale e inter-sessuale e quindi se siano in grado di modulare i rapporti sociali tra gli individui all’interno della popolazione. Per l’indagine del colore si considera la squama sub-oculare che è stata estratta, attraverso un programma di fotoritocco (Adobe Photoshop CS), dalla fotografia del capo di ciascun individuo. Dalla squama viene calcolata la quantità di colore verde (in pixel), la quale viene rapportata al numero dei pixel totali della squama; il rapporto è trasformato in arco di seno e utilizzato per l’analisi statistica. Le prime indagini hanno riguardato le caratteristiche morfologiche generali del campione, i risultati confermano l’elevata variabilità dimensionale della specie nell’ambito dell’areale di distribuzione. Per quanto riguarda l’analisi del dimorfismo sessuale, i risultati, ottenuti dalla PCA, corrispondono a quanto noto in letteratura: il dimorfismo sessuale di Podarcis siculus è bene rappresentato dalla differenza nelle dimensioni della testa, maggiori nel maschio, frutto, nel corso dell’evoluzione, di selezione sessuale e naturale. Dai risultati ottenuti a partire dall’analisi cromatica è possibile affermare che il colore non è un indicatore di genere perché non è un carattere sessualmente dimorfico e perché l’elevata quantità di colore è distribuita negli individui di grosse dimensioni di entrambi i sessi. Si può affermare così che il colore è un indicatore di taglia corporea sia nel maschio che nella femmina. Questo carattere, nel maschio, può essere utile per indicare lo stato di dominanza e per ridurre l’aggressività intrasessuale mentre nella femmina potrebbe indicare la capacità e la disponibilità riproduttiva come descritto da vari autori per altre specie. Dal confronto tra le due popolazioni emerge che la popolazione di Cascine Vecchie ha la squama sub-oculare più verde rispetto ai conspecifici di Gombo. Se consideriamo le caratteristiche morfologiche si nota che la popolazione maschile di Gombo ha il capo di maggiori dimensioni. e confrontando le due popolazioni per tutti i parametri rilevati, emerge un’elevata variabilità generale sia nei maschi che nelle femmine. Questi risultati sono in linea con la tendenza della specie di variare in morfologia all’interno dell’areale di distribuzione e può essere data da una pressione selettiva, ambientale e sessuale, diversa propria dei due siti di cattura.
Messinia, F. (2012) -
Mészáros, B. & Herczeg, G. & Bajer, K. & Török, J. & Molnár, O. (2017) -
Theory of sexual selection states that males often develop showy signals, which reduce their survival but increase their reproductive success. During mate choice, these conspicuous signals can be honest indicators of individual quality conveying information about the signaler`s physiological state. Sexually selected signals are influenced by many environmental factors; however, whether signals and physiological state are affected together is rarely studied. The ultraviolet‐blue throat color of male Lacerta viridis is an intra‐ and intersexually selected signal connected to blood parasite infection and influenced by environmental factors. The aim of this study was to experimentally investigate how ecologically relevant environmental factors affect color signal intensity and key physiological traits parallel. During the mating season, we exposed 40 adult male lizards infected with blood parasites to food and basking time treatments in a full factorial design. We measured color, amount of reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs), hematocrit, immunocompetence, and blood parasite intensity before and after treatments. High basking time resulted in elevated immunocompetence coupled with increased ROMs. The high food treatment increased nuptial color brightness, but also increased ROMs and decreased immunocompetence. In summary, our study provides experimental evidence about environmentally induced parallel changes in an honest sexual signal and several quality‐indicator physiological traits. We showed that available energy and time for high metabolism have independent and sometimes opposite effects on individual state.
Mészáros, B. & Jordán, L. & Bajer, K. & Martin, J. & Török, J. & Molnár, O. (2019) -
Sexual signals serve as an honest indicator of individual quality, reflecting either developmental and/or maintenance costs. A possible underlying physiological mechanism is oxidative stress, which could mediate energy trade-offs between sexual signals and other quality traits. In ectotherms, thermal performance acts as a key indicator of individual quality and influence signal intensity. We investigated how oxidative state is reflected in visual signals of lizards from different thermal habitats. According to our hypothesis, efficient thermoregulation requires different strategies in different thermal environments. In a habitat with predictable temperature changes, animals are less exposed to suboptimal temperature ranges and selection will, therefore, be stronger on the maximum oxidative damage at optimal body temperature. Contrarily, in a habitat with rather stochastic thermal shifts, individuals are often constricted by suboptimal thermal conditions, and oxidative damage can be limiting on a wide temperature range. We used Iberolacerta cyreni and Psammodromus algirus inhabiting stochastic and predictable thermal environments respectively. We examined two aspects of oxidative stress: the level of reactive oxygen metabolites at the preferred temperature (maximal ROM) and the temperature range in which animals produce at least 80% of the maximum level of reactive oxygen metabolites (effective ROM range). In I. cyreni, we found that duller coloration was related to a wider effective ROM range, while expression of coloration in P. algirus was negatively correlated with the maximal ROM. Our results suggest that different thermal constraints affect different aspects of oxidative damage which can indicate individual quality and are, therefore, represented in sexual ornaments.
Meyer, A. (2011) -
Meyer, A. (2014) -
Meyer, A. & Fras, P. le & Mucina, L. (2010) -
Point distribution data were used to evaluate the biogeographical influence of the arid Tankwa Karoo Basin on the distribution of reptiles in the south-western districts of South Africa. Under-representation of the Tankwa Karoo in the dataset required an additional field survey of this region. Prior to the survey, available records from the Tankwa Karoo Basin represented only 13 reptile species. A total of 36 species (24 lizards, nine snakes, three chelonians) was recorded during our survey of this area. Turnover across the Basin is high, species richness is lower than in surrounding mountainous areas and there are no species endemic to the area. The Tankwa Karoo Basin acts as a dispersal barrier for many reptile species occurring in the surrounding more mesic areas. At the same time, the ranges of a number of typical northern, arid-adapted species extend southward along the Tankwa plains. A number of species range extensions in the region are reported.
Meyer, A. & Kühnis, J. & Ursenbacher, S. (2015) -
Die Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) ist in der Schweiz heute weit verbreitet. Neben den natürlichen Vorkommen am Alpensüdhang und den westlichen Landesteilen haben sich im Nordosten und Osten des Landes jedoch ausschließlich allochthone Populationen etabliert, die sich seit den 1990er Jahren weiter ausdehnen. Die anpassungsfähig Art besiedelt heute praktisch alle grösseren Schweizer Städte und kommt in Sekundärhabitaten im Siedlungsraum (z.B. auf Bahn- und Industriearealen sowie entlang von Strassen und Bachböschungen) häufig in hohen Dichten vor.Ihre Hauptvorkommen konzentrieren sich auf die Tal-und unteren Hanglagen; Tiefst- und Höchstfund liegen auf 195 m ü.M. und 2200 m ü.M.
Meyer, A. & Kühnis, J. & Ursenbacher, S. (2020) -
Meyer, F. (1993) -
Meyer, F. & Sy, T. (2016) -
Meyer, J.A. (1901) -
Meyer, J.A. (1903) -
Meyer, M. (2000) -
Meyer, S. (2005) -
Meyer, W. (1951) -
Meylan, S. (1998) -
Meylan, S. (2002) -
Meylan, S. & Belliure, J. & Clobert, J. & Fraipont, M. de (2002) -
Dispersal is a complex phenomenon affected by multiple factors. Among the factors that influence dispersal in the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara), poor maternal body condition and stress are known to decrease dispersal propensity of juveniles. But the effect of individual factors on dispersal could change when several of them act concurrently or at different developmental stages. Prenatal factors can affect clutch and/or juvenile characteristics that later affect dispersal. Postnatal influences are mainly exerted on juvenile dispersal behavior. We investigated the role of body condition and stress on dispersal at a prenatal and a postnatal stage. Stress was mimicked by experimentally increasing corticosterone levels in pregnant females and recently born juveniles. We considered (1) the influence of maternal body condition and prenatal corticosterone treatment on clutch, juvenile characteristics and on dispersal behavior and (2) the influence of juvenile body condition and postnatal corticosterone treatment on juvenile dispersal behavior. There was an interaction between maternal condition and prenatal corticosterone treatment on juvenile dispersal. Dispersal decreased with maternal corticosterone increase only in juveniles from the more corpulent females, while it increased with juvenile body condition. Good maternal body condition affected clutch and juvenile characteristics favoring dispersal, while elevation of corticosterone level (stress) exerted the opposite effect. Juvenile body condition favored dispersal, while there was no effect of postnatal corticosterone treatment on juvenile dispersal propensity.
Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. (2004) -
Offspring phenotype can be affected by maternal history before and during gestation. Offspring sensitivity to maternal conditions is believed to have evolved to favor preadaptation of offspring to environmental factors they are likely to encounter. Because the locomotor capacity of an individual is likely to have important fitness consequences, we examined the role of long-term and short-term prenatal conditions on offspring`s locomotor performance in the lizard Lacerta vivipara. To examine long-term prenatal effects, we manipulated the density of two populations, leaving two additional populations as unmanipulated. We then collected pregnant females within these four populations (Cévennes, Massif Central, France) and kept them in the laboratory until parturition. To examine short-term prenatal effects, we manipulated the corticosterone level of half the females within each population. We took two different measurements of offspring locomotion: sprint speed and endurance. As already documented, sprint speed was positively correlated with offspring body size. Although population density significantly affected female fecundity, neither the density manipulation nor the population of origin influenced offspring phenotype. Corticosterone administered during gestation decreased juvenile sprint speed but did not affect juvenile endurance. Furthermore, we observed that the motivation to run was influenced by maternal hormonal treatment. Juveniles born from corticosterone-treated mothers needed more stimuli than those born from control mothers. We conclude, therefore, that the action of corticosterone on sprint speed could be more behavioral than physiological. Offspring phenotype as measured by endurance and sprint speed appeared partly under maternal control.
Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. (2005) -
Hormones are an important interface between genome and environment, because of their ability to modify the phenotype. More particularly, glucocorticoids are known to affect both morphological, physiological and behavioral traits. Many studies suggest that prenatal stress (associated with an elevation of corticosterone) has deleterious effects on offspring, an altered physiology resulting in retardation of fetal growth and higher percentage of dead neonates. In this study, we investigate the consequences of an artificial increase of corticosterone in pregnant female Lacerta vivipara on two important fitness components: growth and survival. Do stressed females decrease or enhance offspring survival? In 2000 and 2001, we collected pregnant females from four populations of the Cévennes and kept them in the laboratory until parturition. We applied a corticosterone solution daily onto the backs of some females. A similar solution, but without corticosterone, was applied to the remaining females as a control. Immediately after birth, we measured juveniles` morphological characteristics and released them on the field. In September of the year of release and in May of the following year, we recaptured offspring to estimate growth and survival. The elevation of the corticosterone level in pregnant females L. vivipara had a profound impact on juvenile traits. The size, the body condition and the growth of juveniles were decreased by the corticosterone treatment. In contrast, in male juveniles, survival was higher for juveniles from corticosterone-treated females than from placebo females. Thus, corticosterone does not seem to have detrimental effects on offspring survival, suggesting that it may have an adaptive function.
Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. & Dufty, A.M (2004) -
Relationships between hormones and behaviour can be explored by altering endogenous hormone levels, often through implantation of silastic tubing or osmotic pumps filled with a hormone or its agonists or antagonists. However, organisms in sensitive life-history stages (such as pregnancy) may be adversely affected by the surgical procedures associated with these manipulations, necessitating use of non-invasive techniques. We demonstrate that the application of a sesame oil-corticosterone mixture to the skin of pregnant female common lizards (Lacerta vivipara) elevates plasma levels of the hormone. Pregnant female L. vivipara were captured and treated daily for 1-20 days with the sesame oil-corticosterone mixture (experimental group) or with vehicle only (control group). Blood samples were collected and analyzed for corticosterone by radioimmunoassay. Baseline plasma corticosterone levels were elevated within 1 h in the experimental group. Similar levels ( approximately 145 ng/ml) were found over the subsequent 2 days, and by day 5 had risen significantly higher ( approximately 281.9 ng/ml), where they remained for the duration of the experiment. These increases are comparable to those found in other species using related techniques. No significant changes in plasma corticosterone levels occurred in the control group. Finally, corticosterone levels also were determined for untreated females that were captured, held overnight, sampled, and released to access to the natural range of basal corticosterone levels. Basal plasma levels of corticosterone in pregnant females varied among individuals independently of female body size or corpulence.
Meylan, S. & Fraipont, M. de & Clobert, J. (2004) -
During gestation, many morphological, physiological, and behavioural traits are influenced by the maternal environment. Previous experiments on natal dispersal in Lacerta vivipara demonstrated that maternal condition during gestation affects juvenile dispersal behaviour. The mechanisms by which a female may influence her offspring, or offspring respond to changes in the mother`s internal environment, remain largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of corticosterone during pregnancy on the production of the dispersal phenotype. Ninety pregnant females were collected from a population at Cevennes (Massif Central) and kept in the laboratory until parturition. We applied a corticosterone solution daily on the back of 58 females and applied a similar solution, but without corticosterone, to the 32 others as a control. We measured dispersal propensity and morphology of the offspring of both groups. Morphology of offspring was not affected by hormonal treatment of their mothers, but dispersal of young from corticosterone-treated mothers was significantly smaller for large-sized (old) mothers and significantly greater for small-sized (young) females compared to the offspring of control females. Corticosterone might not be the only factor affecting the development of the juvenile dispersal phenotype. Maternal effects on juvenile dispersal reflect future survival prospects of the female and/or the quality of her environment; this finding strengthens our previous finding that natal dispersal in L. vivipara results from the integration of multiple factors.
Meylan, S. & Fraipont, M. de & Clobert, J. & John-Alder, H. (1999) -
Offspring natal dispersal as many other morphological, physiological or beha- vioural traits are influenced by the maternal environment during gestation. In these present study, we wanted to see if many environmental stressors result in an increase of the plasma corticosterone. An increase of this stress-related hormone in pregnant females may directly influence their offspring dispersal and behaviour. To do this, we captured many pregnant females Lacerta vivipara in one population of the Mont Lozère and kept them in individual terrarium until parturition. Two days after capture females were implanted with subcuta- neously silastic implants which contained either corticosterone or physiological water. Raising the level of circulating corticosterone has modified both the behavior of the mother during pregnancy and the behaviour of the juveniles just after birth. Hormones-implanted females increased their activity rate of escape attemps than juveniles issued from non stressed mothers. This trend was reversed when the odour of the mother was present in the terrarium. Finally, we demonstrated that juveniles of stressed mother dispersed in lower number than juveniles of placebo mother. Corticosterone appears therefore to be intimitately linked to natal dispersal in common lizard. This hormone seems to constitue the offspring cue to assess maternal condition, an indication of survival prospect. Offspring dispersal therefore appears, at least in part, to be motived by kin competition.
Meylan, S. & Lallemand, F. & Haussy, C. & Miles, D. (2016) -
Arginine vasotocin (AVT) is known to play an important role in the regulation of social behavior in a number of vertebrate species. Nevertheless, the relationship between AVT and intraspecific interactions appears complex and in some cases contradictory. Moreover, AVT influences other behaviors, which are not primarily social including exploratory behavior, locomotion and thermoregulation. Some of these behavioral effects may be side-effects from a general influence of AVT on physiology. Indeed AVT can regulate metabolism and osmoregulation. Because most studies have been conducted using mammals and birds, its role in modulating behavior in other vertebrate groups is largely unknown. In this study we examined the effect of AVT on the social behavior of male common lizards, Zootoca vivipara. Moreover, considering the variety of pathways AVT could be involved in, we investigated its consequences on thermoregulatory behavior and physiological performance. In mid-June 2010, 74 males were captured from field sites (Mont-Lozère, South-eastern France) and kept in the laboratory for three weeks to obtain behavioral (reaction to conspecific odors, thermoregulation) and physiological (endurance, testosterone level) measurements. We demonstrated that injection of AVT reduced testosterone level and affected social behavior in different ways depending on the size of an individual. Specifically, small males injected with AVT were less attracted by conspecific odors than small control males, and no effect was detected in large males. Moreover, AVT promoted thermoregulatory behavior and enhanced endurance. These results are concordant with previous results obtained in this species in studies on stress suggesting that AVT may act through its influence on corticosterone secretion.
Meylan, S. & Richard, M. & Bauer, S. & Haussy, C. & Miles, D. (2013) -
Immune defenses are of great benefit to hosts, but reducing the impact of infection by mounting an immune response also entails costs. However, the physiological mechanisms that generate the costs of an immune response remain poorly understood. Moreover, the majority of studies investigating the consequences of an immune challenge in vertebrates have been conducted on mammals and birds. The aim of this study is to investigate the physiological costs of mounting an immune response during gestation in an ectothermic species. Indeed, because ectothermic species are unable to internally regulate their body temperature, the apportionment of resources to homeostatic activities in ectothermic species can differ from that in endothermic species. We conducted this study on the common lizard Zootoca vivipara. We investigated the costs of mounting an immune response by injecting females with sheep red blood cells and quantified the consequences to reproductive performance (litter mass and success) and physiological performance (standard metabolic rate, endurance, and phytohemagglutinin response). In addition, we measured basking behavior. Our analyses revealed that mounting an immune response affected litter mass, physiological performance, and basking behavior. Moreover, we demonstrated that the modulation of an immune challenge is impacted by intrinsic factors, such as body size and condition.
Mezzasalma, M. & Capriglione, T. & Kupriyanova, L. & Odierna, G. & Pallotta, M.M. & Petraccioli, A. & Picariello, O. & Guarino, F.M. (2023) -
Transposable elements (TEs) constitute a considerable fraction of eukaryote genomes repre- senting a major source of genetic variability. We describe two DNA sequences isolated in the lizard Zootoca vivipara, here named Zv516 and Zv817. Both sequences are single-copy nuclear sequences, including a truncation of two transposable elements (TEs), SINE Squam1 in Zv516 and a Tc1/Mariner- like DNA transposon in Zv817. FISH analyses with Zv516 showed the occurrence of interspersed signals of the SINE Squam1 sequence on all chromosomes of Z. vivipara and quantitative dot blot indicated that this TE is present with about 4700 copies in the Z. vivipara genome. FISH and dot blot with Zv817 did not produce clear hybridization signals. Bioinformatic analysis showed the presence of active SINE Squam 1 copies in the genome of different lacertids, in different mRNAs, and intronic and coding regions of various genes. The Tc1/Mariner-like DNA transposon occurs in all reptiles, excluding Sphenodon and Archosauria. Zv817 includes a trait of 284 bp, representing an amniote ultra-conserved element (UCE). Using amniote UCE homologous sequences from available whole genome sequences of major amniote taxonomic groups, we performed a phylogenetic analysis which retrieved Prototheria as the sister group of Metatheria and Eutheria. Within diapsids, Testudines are the sister group to Aves + Crocodylia (Archosauria), and Sphenodon is the sister group to Squamata. Furthermore, large trait regions flanking the UCE are conserved at family level.
Mezzasalma, M. & Guarino, F.M. & Kupryianova, L. & Odierna, G. & Pallotta, M.M. & Petraccioli, A. & Picariello, O. & Capriglione, T. (2019) -
We isolated two DNA sequences, here named Zv516 and Zv817 (of 516 and 817 bp), in the common European lizard Zootoca vivipara characterizing their nucleotide content, copy number, chromosomal location and conservation in different amniote taxonomic groups. Molecular and bioinformaticanalyses showed that Zv516 and Zv817 contain truncated traits of two different repeated interspersed DNA sequences, SINE Squam1 and TC1 Mariner, belonging to class I and II Transposable Elements (TEs), respectively. Quantitative dot blot evidenced that both TEs represent about 0.03% of the genome of Z. vivipara, with about 3200-4500 copies, and comparable quantities were found in different squamate groups. Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) located both sequences on all chromosome pairs, with probes from Zv516 preferentially distributed on centromeric and telomeric regions, while probes from Zv817 were also on interstitial chromosome regions. A different trait of Zv817 (of about 300 bp) was identified as an amniote Ultra-Conserved Element (UCE) occurring in reptiles, birds and mammals (identities from 86% to 100%), while no significant identities were found in Whole-Genome Shotgun (WGS) archives of amphibians, fishes and various tested invertebrate groups. Upstream and downstream regions (of about 1000 bp) of the same UCE are also conserved in different reptile groups with high identities at family level (>96%). Phylogenetic analyses performed both with the isolated UCE and its contigs provided tree topologies which were largely consistent with accepted evolutionary relationships at different taxonomic level. Further discussion will cover aspects of the genomic evolution of the isolated TEs and UCE.
Mezzasalma, M. & Maio, N. & Guarino, F.M. (2014) -
Lepidosaurs are frequently described as having highly kinetic skulls, and different forms of cranial kinesis have been described as being characteristic of their radiation. The model of amphikinesis proposed by Frazzetta, J Morphol 1962; 111:287–319, which was long considered a synapomorphy of the large suborder Sauria, is now much debated given its uncertain distribution among the various lizard taxa and the lack of data about its morphological correlates. In this article, we analyze the anatomical correlates of different forms of cranial kinesis, with particular regard to the putative saurian amphikinesis, describing the possible diverse skull movements of several species of European gekkotans (Hemidactylus turcicus, Mediodactylus kotschyi, and Tarentola mauritanica) and lacertids (Lacerta agilis, L. bilineata, Podarcis muralis, P. siculus, and Teira dugesii). Using serial and whole-mount histology, we found clear differences between gekkotans and lacertids in the structure of several cranial joints underlining the existence of two degrees of intracranial mobility. The lacertid species possess the anatomical features for streptostyly (quadrate joints) and metakinesis (parietal-supraoccipital and parabasisphenoid-pterygoid joints) and lack the anatomical correlates for mesokinesis (mobility of frontal-parietal and palatine-pterygoid joints) and amphikinesis (coupled mesokinesis, metakinesis, and streptostyly). In contrast, geckos present all the anatomical correlates for amphikinesis as described by the traditional quadratic crank model. Finally, we present a comprehensive summary of the different forms of squamate cranial kinesis, advancing two alternative hypotheses about the evolutionary origin of amphikinesis.
Mezzasalma, M. & Visone, V. & Petraccioli, A. & Odierna, G. & Capriglione, T. (2016) -
Due to their particular phylogenetic position and biological characteristics, squamate reptiles and, in particular, snakes are becoming an increasingly important model for fields such as evolutionary biology, molecular ecology and adaptation. Recently, during a study to analyze the evolutionary history of European whip snakes, we found a LINE1 (L1)-like sequence (GenBank accession no. LM644476), herein called TRL1L, and while there are data on the abundance of L1 in snakes, their genomic and chromosome localization is still largely unexplored. We therefore performed a study to obtain information on TRL1L abundance, distribution and conservation in snake species, belonging to the Colubridae, Lamprophiidae and Viperidae families, using quantitative dot-blot and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). TRL1L showed a high identity with homologous segments of L1s of lizards the Anolis carolinensis and Lacerta agilis and the zebrafish Danio rerio. The discovered sequences are truncated L1 elements which occur with a low copy number, about 0.1% of the genome of the species studied. This evidence suggests that L1 retroposons have a similar landscape in lizard and snake genomes, probably because similar processes limited L1 distribution in their genomes. TRL1L showed a non-random chromosome distribution pattern. It was scarcely located on autosomes and on the euchromatic W chromosome of Cerastes vipera, while mostly found on the heterochromatic W chromosome of Hierophis carbonarius and Elaphe quatuorlineata. Our data support the hypothesis that a ‘purifying selection’ against the accumulation of L1 elements takes place in recombining regions and highlight the possible role of these elements in the differentiation processes of the snake heterochromatic W chromosome. Interestingly, the preferential distribution of TRL1L on the heterochromatic .W chromosomes of the studied snakes appears to be similar to that observed in mammals for L1 accumulation on differentiated Y chromosomes. This finding suggests that a convergent process may have taken place in the differentiation of vertebrate heterochromatic sex chromosomes.
Mezzena, R. & Dolce, S. (1978) -
Mhanna, J. & Al Masri, A. & Ibrahim, N. (2021) -
This study aimed to check the erythrocyte and nucleus sizes of six species of reptiles, one species of Agamidae (Laudakia stellio), one species of Testudinidae (Testudo graeca), one species of Chamaeleonidae (Chamaeleo chamaeleon recticrista), and three species of Lacertidae (Ophisops elegans, Lacerta media, Phoenicolacerta laevis) from Coastal region in Syria using blood smears stained with Wright’s stain. The longest, widest and largest erythrocytes and the widest nuclei were found in T. graeca. The shortest and narrowest erythrocytes and nuclei were found in O. elegans. The longest, largest nuclei were found in C. chameleon. The shortest and narrowest nuclei were found in P. laevis.
Michaelides, G. & Kati, V. (2009) -
The current study explores the diversity patterns of the lizard species assembly found on the Me- diterranean island of Cyprus with the broader aim of providing guidelines for the conservation management of these types of Mediterranean species communities. We sampled lizards in eight quadrats of 10 ha each, located in the Xeros Potamos protected area (SW Cyprus), and recorded 16 environmental parameters for each quadrat. We identified eight lizard species, five of which are protected under European legislation (Ablepharus budaki,Chalcides ocellatus,Laudakia stel- lio, Mediodactylus kotschyi, Ophisops elegans), and one that is listed as endangered (Acanthoda- ctylus schreiberi) based on IUCN assessments. The microhabitats used by the resident lizard com- munity in the study area were defined best by substrate, bush cover, humidity, altitude and incli- nation (RDA). Traditionally cultivated land with hedges harbored the highest lizard diversity. The typical habitat for the endangered species A. schreiberi consisted of humid sandy river banks with bush cover, a habitat currently threatened by the Xeros Potamos River channelization. Im- mediate action should involve the establishment of a control mechanism for the protection of the sandy riverbeds from illegal deposit of construction debris, the removal of embankments, and the sustainable use of water so as to maintain the natural flow regimes of the river.
Michaelides, S. & Cornish, N. & Griffiths, R. & Groombridge, J. & Zajac, N. & Walters, G.J. & Aubret, F. & Whit, G.M. & Uller, T. (2015) -
Populations at range limits are often characterized by lower genetic diversity, increased genetic isolation and differentiation relative to populations at the core of geographical ranges. Furthermore, it is increasingly recognized that populations situated at range limits might be the result of human introductions rather than natural dispersal. It is therefore important to document the origin and genetic diversity of marginal populations to establish conservation priorities. In this study, we investigate the phylogeography and genetic structure of peripheral populations of the common European wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, on Jersey (Channel Islands, UK) and in the Chausey archipelago.We sequenced a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene in 200 individuals of P. muralis to infer the phylogeography of the island populations using Bayesian approaches.We also genotyped 484 individuals from 21 populations at 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci to evaluate the genetic structure and diversity of island and mainland (Western France) populations.We detected four unique haplotypes in the island populations that formed a sub-clade within the Western France clade. There was a significant reduction in genetic diversity (HO,HE and AR) of the island populations in relation to the mainland. The small fragmented island populations at the northern range margin of the common wall lizard distribution are most likely native, with genetic differentiation reflecting isolation following sea level increase approximately 7000 BP. Genetic diversity is lower on islands than in marginal populations on the mainland, potentially as a result of early founder effects or long-term isolation. The combination of restriction to specific localities and an inability to expand their range into adjacent suitable locations might make the island populations more vulnerable to extinction.
Michaelides, S. & Hill, P. & Laakonen, H. & Uller, T. (2018) -
Michaelides, S. & While, G.M. & Bell, C. & Uller, T. (2013) -
Introduction of individuals from multiple sources could create opportunities for hybridization between previously isolated lineages, which may impact on the invasion process. Identifying the phylogeographic origin of introduced populations is therefore an important task to further test the causes and consequences of human-mediated translocations. The common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) shows a strong phylogeographic structure as a result of past isolation in glacial refugia, but it has also been commonly introduced outside of its native range. Here we analysed 655 base pairs (bp) of the cytochrome b sequence from 507 individuals from 23 introduced populations of P. muralis in England. We identified 12 unique haplotypes in the introduced populations that were nested into five native geographically distinct clades with genetic divergences ranging from 2.1 to 5.7 %. Multiple clade origin was common within populations, with a maximum of three different haplotype clades being represented within a single population. The genetic data are consistent with a scenario whereby initial establishment was a result of translocation of animals from their native range, whereas more recent establishment (i.e. since the mid-1980s) is the result of translocations of animals from previously established non-native populations. However, this requires further study. Overall, our results show that human introductions have created substantial opportunities for hybridization between genetically and phenotypically distinct lineages, which may have important consequences for the establishment success and long-term viability of introduced wall lizard populations.
Michaelides, S.N. & Wahile, G.M. & Uller, T. (2016) -
Human activities are increasingly modifying the abundance and distribution of organisms and this is evident by the occurrence of numerous species beyond their native range. The common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, has a wide distribution in Southern Europe. The species has also been repeatedly introduced in England with currently more than 25 extant populations. We used mtDNA sequences, microsatellite markers and a combination of Bayesian analytical techniques to unravel the colonisation history of P. muralis in England. There were at least nine independent introduction events from native populations in France and Italy. We found evidence of admixture and support for secondary introductions within the non-native range. We further tested how introduction history influences genetic structure. Genetic diversity was significantly lower in England and for older non- native populations. The loss of genetic variation was greater for populations originating from sources with high levels of genetic diversity. There was no further loss in secondary introductions and admixture did not have significant positive effects. Finally, we collected data on hatching success from both native and introduced populations to assess the consequences of colonisation at the individual and population level. We found increased embryonic mortality in the non-native range indicative of inbreeding depression. Hatching failure was particularly high for populations with greater loss of genetic diversity. However, there was no evidence that heterozygosity is correlated with fitness at the population or individual levels. Combined, our study represents a comprehensive example linking introduction history, genetic diversity, individual fitness and population viability in a non-native species.
Michaelides, S.N. & While, G.M. & Zajac, N. & Aubret, F. & Calsbeek, C. & Sacchi, R. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Uller, T. (2016) -
Many populations are small and isolated with limited genetic variation and high risk of mating with close relatives. Inbreeding depression is suspected to contribute to extinction of wild populations, but the historical and demographic factors that contribute to reduced population viability are often difficult to tease apart. Replicated introduction events in non-native species can offer insights into this problem because they allow us to study how genetic variation and inbreeding depression are affected by demographic events (e.g., bottlenecks), genetic admixture and the extent and duration of isolation. Using detailed knowledge about the introduction history of 21 non-native populations of the wall lizard Podarcis muralis in England we show greater loss of genetic diversity (estimated from microsatellite loci) in older populations and in populations from native regions of high diversity. Loss of genetic diversity was accompanied by higher embryonic mortality in non-native populations, suggesting that introduced populations are sufficiently inbred to jeopardize long-term viability. However, there was no statistical correlation between population-level genetic diversity and average embryonic mortality. Similarly, at the individual level, there was no correlation between female heterozygosity and clutch size, infertility, or hatching success, or between embryo heterozygosity and mortality. We discuss these results in the context of human-mediated introductions and how the history of introductions can play a fundamental role in influencing individual and population fitness in non-native species.
Michaelides, S.N. & While, G.M. & Zajac, N. & Uller, T. (2015) -
Establishing the introduction pathways of alien species is a fundamental task in invasion biology. The common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, has been widely introduced outside of its native range in both Europe and North America, primarily through escaped pets or deliberate release of animals from captive or wild populations. Here, we use Bayesian clustering, approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) methods and network analyses to reconstruct the origin and colonization history of 23 non-native populations of wall lizards in England. Our analyses show that established populations in southern England originate from at least nine separate sources of animals from native populations in France and Italy. Secondary introductions from previously established non-native populations were supported for eleven (47%) populations. In contrast to the primary introductions, secondary introductions were highly restricted geographically and appear to have occurred within a limited time frame rather than being increasingly common. Together, these data suggest that extant wall lizard populations in England are the result of isolated accidental and deliberate releases of imported animals since the 1970s, with only local translocation of animals from established non-native populations. Given that populations introduced as recently as 25 years ago show evidence of having adapted to cool climate, discouraging further translocations may be important to prevent more extensive establishment on the south coast of England.
Micheel, Y. (2008) -
Michel, S. (2000) -
Michelot, M. (1980) -
Michelot, M. (1989) -
Michelot, M. (1997) -
Michelot, M. & Guillaume, C.P. (1989) -
Michelot, M. & Martinez Rica, J.P. (1989) -
Michels, J.P. & Bauer, A.M. (2004) -
Midtgaard, R. (1989) -
Mienis, H.K. (1986) -
Mierig, M. (1937) -
Mieritz, M. (1937) -
Migiani, G. & Smout, J.L. & Recknagel, H. & Elmer, K.R. (2022) -
Here we report on an unusual green-coloured hypomelanistic male common lizard found in the Southern Alps of Italy. The individual displayed a lack of ventral spots and an olive-green dorsal background colouration, and lacked most of the typical dorsal patterning found in other individuals. The individual was in good condition relative to other male common lizards. Hypomelanistic individuals have been reported in other lizard species and locations. Due to their rarity, little is known about their relative fitness compared to the typical colour phenotypes.
Miguel, A.C. & Llorente, G.A. (1997) -
Mihaljevic, M. (2022) -
Social environment can influence different temperament traits in animals, yet little is known about its influences on boldness. In reptiles, boldness is the most often researched trait, while the social environment influences on lizard behaviour are not well studied. The aim of this study was to determine the differences in boldness of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) between individuals who have been exposed to social contact with a conspecific of the opposite sex in a period of one month and the individuals who were socially isolated. 76 lizards raised in captivity were tested using the open field test with refuges and simulated predatory attack test. Time spent in refuge and in central zone, as well as latency to hide and a boldness score expressed through simulated predatory attack reactions were compared between the tested lizard groups. While the results did not show a statistically significant difference, new future research directions are discussed.
Mihaljević, M. & Martinčić, J. (1999) -
Mikaili, P. & Shayegh, J. (2011) -
The etymology of the reptiles, especially the lizards of Iran has not been completely presented in other published works. Iran is a very active geographic area for any animals, and more especially for lizards, due to its wide range deserts and ecology. We have attempted to ascertain, as much as possible, the construction of the Latin binomials of all Iranian lizard species. We believe that a review of these names is instructive, not only in codifying many aspects of the biology of the lizards, but in presenting a historical overview of collectors and taxonomic work in Iran and Middle East region. We have listed all recorded lizards of Iran according to the order of the scientific names in the book of Anderson, The Lizards of Iran. All lizard species and types have been grouped under their proper Families, and then they have been alphabetically ordered based on their scientific binominal nomenclature. We also examined numerous published works in addition to those included in the original papers presenting each binomial.
Mikan, J.C. (1805) -
Mikátová, B. (2001) -
Mikátová, B. (2002) -
Mikonnet, A. & Bellenoue, S. (2011) -
Milá, B. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Heulin, B. & Gosa, A. & Fitze, P.S. (2013) -
The geographic distribution of evolutionary lineages and the patterns of gene flow upon secondary contact provide insight into the process of divergence and speciation. We explore the evolutionary history of the common lizard Zootoca vivipara (= Lacerta vivipara) in the Iberian Peninsula and test the role of the Pyrenees and the Cantabrian Mountains in restricting gene flow and driving lineage isolation and divergence. We also assess patterns of introgression among lineages upon secondary contact, and test for the role of high-elevation trans-mountain colonisations in explaining spatial patterns of genetic diversity. We use mtDNA sequence data and genome-wide AFLP loci to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships among lineages, and measure genetic structure
Milani, L. & Maurizii, M.G. (2014) -
Milani, L. & Maurizii, M.G. (2015) -
The vasa gene encodes a DEAD-box ATP-dependent RNA helicase that regulates the translation of multiple mRNAs involved in germ line differentiation. This protein has been deeply studied in many animals, but few data are available to date on reptiles. In this work, we sequenced a portion of Podarcis sicula vasa gene (Ps-vasa), developed a specific antibody and verified its specificity. Using anti-Ps-Vasa and confocal microscopy, we studied Vasa expression in male germ cells during the reproductive cycle of P. sicula: during full gonadal activity (spring), during regression of gonadal activity (summer) and during slow autumnal recrudescence. We also analyzed Vasa expression in young testes when the walls of the seminiferous tubules were forming. The aim was to verify if Vasa is involved in the process of male germ cell differentiation in all phases of the reproductive cycle. In adult testes, during full gonadal activity and during recrudescence, Vasa staining was detected from spermatogonia to spermatids. Vasa spots were also observed in the nucleus of germ cells supporting its function in different cellular compartments. No Vasa staining was observed in mature spermatozoa during the spring and mid-late November. The seminiferous epithelium analyzed in the summer appeared reduced with only spermatogonia, all Vasa-immunostained, some in division to replace germ cells. In immature testes, the seminiferous epithelium contained only spermatogonia and spermatocytes. The clear immunostaining in their cytoplasm revealed that Vasa is already expressed in juvenile male gonads, suggesting a role in the differentiation process since P. sicula early developmental stages.
Milani, L. & Pecci, A. & Cifaldi, C. & Maurizii, M.G. (2017) -
Among genes involved in the regulation of germ cell differentiation, those of DDX4/Vasa and the Ded1/DDX3 subfamilies encode for DEAD-box ATP-dependent RNA helicases, proteins involved in many mechanisms related to RNA processing. For the first time in reptiles, using specific antibodies at confocal microscopy, we analysed the localization pattern of a Ded1/DDX3 subfamily member in testis and ovary of Podarcis sicula (Ps-PL10) during the reproductive cycle. In testis, Ps-PL10 is expressed in the cytoplasm of spermatocytes and it is not detected in spermatogonia. Differently from Ps-VASA, in round spermatids, Ps-PL10 is not segregated in the chromatoid body but it accumulates in the cytoplasm of residual bodies, and mature spermatozoa are unstained. These observations suggest that in males, Ps-PL10 (1) is involved in spermatogenesis and (2) is then eliminated with residual bodies. In the ovary, Ps-PL10 is present with granules in the cytoplasm of early meiotic cells of the germinal bed (GB), while it is not present in oogonia and somatic cells of the GB stroma. In follicular cells of ovarian follicles, Ps-PL10 expression starts after their fusion with the oocyte. Numerous Ps-PL10 spots are visible in pyriform (nurse-like) cells concomitantly with the protein accumulation in the cytoplasm of differentiating oocyte. In pyriform cells, Ps-PL10 spots are present in the cytoplasm and nuclei, as observed for Ps-VASA, and in the nucleoli, suggesting for Ps-PL10 a role in rRNA processing and in the transport of molecules from the nucleus to cytoplasm and from nurse cells to the oocyte
Milde, J. (1866) -
Milde, J. (1870) -
Miletto Petrazzini, M.E. & Bertolucci, C. & Foà, A. (2018) -
Quantitative abilities have been reported in many animal species. Two main methods have been extensively used: spontaneous choice tests and training procedures. A recent study showed that ruin lizards are capable of spontaneously discriminating between the surface area of two food items of different size, but failed when food was presented in sets of discrete items differing in number. In the present study, we used a training procedure to further investigate quantitative abilities in ruin lizards. Subjects were presented with two sets of yellow disks differing either in number (Experiment 1) or in area (Experiment 2) and were trained on different discriminations of increasing difficulty (1 vs. 4, 2 vs. 4, and 2 vs. 3). Results showed that lizards were more accurate in discriminating sets of discrete items differing in number than the area of two individual items, in contrast to what had earlier been observed in spontaneous choice tests. Although we cannot exclude other factors that affected the performance of ruin lizards, the poor accuracy here observed in both experiments might reflect a true limit in lizards’ quantitative abilities.
Miletto Petrazzini, M.E. & Fraccaroli, I. & Gariboldi, F. & Agrillo, C. & Bisazza, A. & Bertolucci, C. & Foa, A. (2017) -
The ability to identify the largest amount of prey available is fundamental for optimizing foraging behaviour in several species. To date, this cognitive skill has been observed in all vertebrate groups except reptiles. In this study we investigated the spontaneous ability of ruin lizards to select the larger amount of food items. In Experiment 1, lizards proved able to select the larger food item when presented with two alternatives differing in size (0.25, 0.50, 0.67 and 0.75 ratio). In Experiment 2 lizards presented with two groups of food items (1 versus 4, 2 versus 4, 2 versus 3 and 3 versus 4 items) were unable to select the larger group in any contrast. The lack of discrimination in the presence of multiple items represents an exception in numerical cognition studies, raising the question as to whether reptiles’ quantitative abilities are different from those of other vertebrate groups.
Milhau, B. & Delmas, N. & Vergne, J. & Pottier, G. (2012) -
Le Lézard catalan Podarcis liolepis a fait l`objet de deux observations récentes à des altitudes élevées (1850 m et 2750 m) dans le département de l`Ariège (France). L`altitude de ces deux observations est supérieure à l`altitude maximale précédemment connue chez l`espèce en France (1651 m) et l`une d`elles s`avère même supérieure au précédent record d`altitude enregistré chez P. liolepis pour l`ensemble de la chaîne pyrénéenne (2650 m).
Miller, L.L. (2005) -
Miller, L.L. (2007) -
Milne-Edwards, M.H. (1829) -
Milto, K.D. (1996) -
Milto, K.D. (2010) -
Lacerta tristis was described as subspecies of the rock lizard and it was considered within L. saxicola species complex. Later this lizard was included in the rudis -species group as the western subspecies of Darevskia rudis tristis. Our morphological data analysis demonstrates close relationships this form to the Caucasian rock lizards D. raddei superspecies. An enlarged rough scales on the external surface of shin are typical for D. rudis and are absent in D. tristis. D. tristis differs from a species group of D. rudis by number of scales around the shin, number of scales around midbody, number of body scales row contacted with ventral scale, number of the femoral pores. D. tristis has small and elegant body in comparison with robust D. rudis. In contrast with sclerophilous D. rudis this lizard is a mesophilous species and inhabits forested areas in the Pontic Mountains. Based on the morphological and ecological characters it is suggest to consider Darevskia tristis as full species of the rock lizards.
Milto, K.D. (2017) -
New records of 20 reptile species and subspecies on the Red Sea coast of Sinai Peninsula and Eastern Desert in Egypt are given. A zoogeographical analyses of the herpetofauna and comparison of the species compositions re- sults to estimate the biodiversity for each subregion of Eastern Egypt. The faunal richness, taxonomic diversity and endemism level in hyperarid deserts of the Egypt are discussed. Mountainous South Sinai and southern part of the South Eastern Desert is suggested to consider as biodiversity hotspots in Eastern Egypt.
Milto, K.D. (2022) -
Two Acanthodactylus boskianus and three Mesalina guttulata were recorded on the surface at day time, 12 January 2022 in the South Eastern Desert, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt. The weather was clear full day, in the middle of the day the air temperature reached +240C. Lizards not only actively moved, but also demonstrated foraging behavior. This is the first doc- umented record of winter activity of lacertids in Egypt.
К. Д. Мильто (2022) -
Описывается первый документированный случай зимней активности двух видов настоящих ящериц в Египте. 12 января 2022 г. в южной части Восточной пустыни наблюдалась зимняя активность Acanthodactylus boskianus и Mesalina guttulata. Погода весь день была солнечная, в середине дня температура достигла +240C. Ящерицы не толь- ко активно перемещались, но и демонстрировали пищевое поведение.
Milto, K.D. & Ananjeva, N.B. (2022) -
The Kashgar Racerunner Eremias buechneri Bedriaga, 1907 is a member of the taxonomically most complicated group, i.e. E. multiocellata – E. przewalskii complex, together with about a dozen of other species inhabiting predominantly arid landscapes of Central Asia. Eremias buechneri is one of the poorly studied representatives of this diverse group of species. This species was described in 1907 by Jakob von Bedriaga based on the study of specimens collected in Central Asia by N.M. Przewalsky and M.W. Pewzow. This species is practically not present in the collections of museums around the world and is known from a limited number of specimens. We clarify the composition of the type series used in in the original description of this species in accordance with article 72.4.1 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature and we propose to consider as a type series the specimens mentioned by the author in his description of 1907, with catalogue numbers in the collection of the Zoological Museum (since 1931, the Zoological Institute) clarified from the results of the N.M. Przewalsky expedition reported by Bedriaga (1912) and thus to expand the type series to 59 specimens (1 lectotype and 58 paralectotypes). Of these, four paralectotypes are lost (ZISP 7264.9, 7279.6, 7089.4 and 7264.4) and four specimens are in very poor condition, almost destroyed (ZISP 8286.1–4). Thus, the actual number of specimens currently stored at the Zoological Institute is 55. The paratype E. buechneri ZISP 9131 has been genotyped. Molecular genetic identification of specimens in the type series from different parts of the range appears promising as a future avenue of research.
Milto, K.D. & Melnikov, D.A. & Nazarov, R.A. & Saber, S.A. & Nagy, A. (2018) -
Milto, K.D. & Pestov, M.V. & Bezman-Moseyko, O.S. (2010) -
Milto, K.D. & Saber, S.A. & Nagy, A.M. & Nazarov, R.A. & Melnikov, D.A. & Ananjeva, N.B. (2019) -
The herpetofauna of Wadi El Gemal National Park, Eastern Desert, Egypt currently includes 28 reptile species. Three large wadies, Wadi El Gemal, Wadi Abu Ghusoun and Wadi Sartout, were observed as a model of the spe- cies composition within the national park. Species assemblages, taxonomic and ecological diversity, and the biogeographical affinities of reptiles in the specific environment of the hyperarid desert are discussed.
Mina, D. & Sagonas, K. & Fragopoulou, A.F. & Pafilis, P. & Skoiroliakou, A. & Margaritis, L.H. & Tsitsilouis, O.E. & Valakos, E.D. (2016) -
Purpose During the last three decades, the number of devices that emit non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation (EMR) at the wireless communication spectrum has rapidly increased and possible effects on living organisms have become a major concern. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of radiofrequency EMR emitted by a widely used wireless communication device, namely the Digital Enhanced Communication Telephony (DECT) base, on the immune responses of the Aegean wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii). Materials and methods Adult male lizards were exposed 24 h/day for 8 weeks to 1880–1900 MHz DECT base radiation at average electric field intensity of 3.2 V/m. Immune reactivity was assessed using the phytohemagglutinin (PHA) skin swelling and mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) tests. Results Our results revealed a noticeable suppression (approximately 45%) of inflammatory responses in EMR-exposed lizards compared to sham-exposed animals. T cell-mediated responses were marginally affected. Conclusion Daily radiofrequency EMR exposure seems to affect, at least partially, the immunocompetence of the Aegean wall lizard.
Minery, N. & Kraft, J.-B. & Fizesan, A. (2017) -
Mingo, V. (2018) -
Reptiles belong to a taxonomic group characterized by increasing worldwide population declines. However, it has not been until comparatively recent years that public interest in these taxa has increased, and conservation measures are starting to show results. While many factors contribute to these declines, environmental pollution, especially in form of pesticides, has seen a strong increase in the last few decades, and is nowadays considered a main driver for reptile diversity loss. In light of the above, and given that reptiles are extremely underrepresented in ecotoxicological studies regarding the effects of plant protection products, this thesis aims at studying the impacts of pesticide exposure in reptiles, by using the Common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) as model species. In a first approach, I evaluated the risk of pesticide exposure for reptile species within the European Union, as a means to detect species with above average exposure probabilities and to detect especially sensitive reptile orders. While helpful to detect species at risk, a risk evaluation is only the first step towards addressing this problem. It is thus indispensable to identify effects of pesticide exposure in wildlife. For this, the use of enzymatic biomarkers has become a popular method to study sub-individual responses, and gain information regarding the mode of action of chemicals. However, current methodologies are very invasive. Thus, in a second step, I explored the use of buccal swabs as a minimally invasive method to detect changes in enzymatic biomarker activity in reptiles, as an indicator for pesticide uptake and effects at the sub-individual level. Finally, the last part of this thesis focuses on field data regarding pesticide exposure and its effects on reptile wildlife. Here, a method to determine pesticide residues in food items of the Common wall lizard was established, as a means to generate data for future dietary risk assessments. Subsequently, a field study was conducted with the aim to describe actual effects of pesticide exposure on reptile populations at different levels.
Mingo, V. & Leeb, C. & Ahl, A.K. & Lötters, S. & Brühl, C. & Wagner, N. (2019) -
The use of enzymatic biomarkers constitutes a widely used approach in ecotoxicology. However, standard sampling procedures are invasive, requiring tissue, organ or blood extraction. This leads to concerns regarding conservation practice, animal welfare and restrictions in study design. New techniques are needed to avoid these problems, but still generate reliable data. Here, we aimed at validating the use of buccal swabs as a reliable method to detect pesticide exposure in reptiles. Common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) were divided into control, dermal and oral treatment groups and exposed to different pesticide formulations. Subsequently, buccal swabs were taken and enzymatic activity was analyzed. We were able to confirm the suitability of the method to detect effects of pesticide exposure on the enzymatic level. While exposure to the formulation Roundup Ultramax® didn`t match when compared to effects previously observed in situ when compared to other glyphosate based formulations, effects could still be detected. This can be seen as a strong indicator that the active ingredient of a formulation may not always be the mian driver for ecotoxicological effectsat the enzymatic level. At the same time, exposure towards the single formulation Vivando® didn`t result in any effects. However, individuals residing in agricultural landscapes will mostly be exposed to pesticide mixes containing different formulations. Our results strongly advocate that buccal swabbing is a reliable minimal invasive method to generate samples for detecting effects of pesticide exposure in reptiles. Due to its easy handling, we believe it will provide new opportunities concerning study designs.
Mingo, V. & Lötters, S. & Wagner, N. (2016) -
Habitat loss and environmental pollution are among the main causes responsible for worldwide biodiversity loss. The resulting species and population declines affect all vertebrates including reptiles. Especially in industrialized countries, pollution by agrochemicals is of remarkable importance. Here, habitat loss has historically been associated with expansion of agriculture. Species persisting in such environments do not only need to cope with habitat loss, but more recently, also with chemical intensification, namely pesticide exposure. In this study, we examined effects of different fungicide and herbicide applications on the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in grape-growing areas. We used three enzymatic biomarkers (GST, GR, AChE) and for the first time saliva from buccal swabs as a minimal-invasive sampling method for detection. Our results demonstrate absorption of substances by lizards and effects of pesticide exposure on enzymatic activities. Our findings are in accordance with those of previous laboratory studies, although samples were retrieved from natural habitats. We conclude that buccal swabs could become a useful tool for the detection of pesticide exposure in reptiles and have the potential to replace more invasive methods, such as organ extraction or cardiac puncture. This is an important finding, as reptiles are non-target organisms of pesticide applications, and there is a strong need to integrate them into pesticide risk assessments.
Mingo, V. & Lötters, S. & Wagner, N. (2017) -
Environmental pollution and habitat loss are described as underlying causes for population declines in reptiles and especially affect species in agricultural landscapes. Studies dealing with effects of pesticide exposure on reptiles are limited, mainly addressing the orders Testudines and Crocodylia, but largely neglecting the most diverse reptile order Squamata (lizards and snakes). As a consequence, information regarding effects on their organisms, as well as exposure probability and pesticide uptake in the Reptilia has to be considered rather uncharted. We here ask how pesticide applications affect a widely distributed, synanthropic squamate species in Europe. We studied the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) with regard to enzymatic biomarkers of pesticide exposure (Glutathione-S-Transferase, Glutathione Reductase, Acetylcholinesterase) and body condition. Lizards were sampled from wild populations, along an exposure gradient (three exposed sites with differing land use intensity and one reference site). Our results suggest both dermal and oral uptake of pesticide formulations, with the former being especially relevant during the first two days after a pesticide application. Enzymatic activity slightly differed between exposure gradients, while showing overall similar patterns. Body condition of lizards decreased with increasing pesticide exposure. Furthermore, gender distribution was particularly skewed in favor to males within exposed sample sites. Although reptiles are not target organisms of pesticide applications, many species do come into contact with them, and most probably suffer from dermal and oral uptake. Thus, we believe it is indispensable for reptiles to be integrated in risk assessments in order to improve conservation practice.
Mingo, V. & Modica, C. & Hochkirch, A. & Veith, M. & Schulte, U. (2015) -
Bedingt durch negative Interaktionen wie Konkurrenz, Prädation oder Hybridisierung stellen invasive Arten (bzw. Unterarten) eine große Bedrohung für heimische Arten dar. Populationen invasiver Arten beruhen oftmals auf multiplen Einschleppungen die nicht zwangsläufig zu einem Verlust, sondern häufig zu einer Erhöhung der genetischen Diversität führen. Dies ist vorteilhaft für die Anpassungsfähigkeit der Vorkommen, da im natürlichen Areal Merkmale selektiert werden können, die eine Invasivität fördern. Während der Kolonisierung könnten Merkmale selektiert werden, die ein rasches Ausbreiten und Überleben in dem ausgesetzten Gebiet fördern. Die Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) ist eine submediterrane Art, deren Verbreitungsgebiet bis in den Südwesten Deutschlands reicht. Die vorliegende Arbeit beschäftigt sich mit der Populationsgenetik allochtgoner Populationen in Ammelshain (in der Nähe von Leipzig) und Passau. Insgesamt wurden in Ammelshain 81 Individuen und in Passau 155 Individuen an 13 Mikrosatelliten-Loci genotypisiert. Die Structure Analyse zeigt, sowohl eine Limitierung des Genflusses als auch einen regelmäßigen genetischen Austausch zwischen unterschiedlichen Subpopulationen mit einer Ausbreitungsgeschwindigkeit der Populationen von 500 m pro Jahr. Die genetische Differenzierung zwischen den Passauer Subpopulationen stieg mit größer werdender geographischer Distanz. In der Passauer Population konnte eine hohe genetische Diversität sowie geringe Inzucht festgestellt werden, während in Ammelshain das Gegenteil zu beobachten ist.
Mingo, V. & Wagner, N. (2017) -
Reptiles belong to a group of vertebrates that is globally affected by biodiversity loss. While the underlying causes are highly assorted, environmental pollution (especially in form of pesticides) and habitat loss are recognized as the leading factors for these declines, especially in agricultural landscapes. The reptile order Squamata has thus far been largely neglected whilst studying effects of pesticides on reptiles, whereas the main focus has been given to the orders Testudines and Crocodylia. Overall, reptiles are highly underrepresented in ecotoxicological studies assessing effects of pesticide exposure in vertebrates. Therefore, information regarding potential effects on their organisms, as well as exposure probability and pesticide uptake in the Reptilia has to be considered rather uncharted. Our focus lied in how pesticide applications affect a widely distributed squamate species in Europe. We studied the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) with regard to enzymatic biomarkers of pesticide exposure (Glutathione-S-Transferase, Glutathione Reductase, Acetylcholinesterase) and body condition. Lizards were sampled from wild populations, along an exposure gradient (three sites with differing land use intensity and one reference site). Our results show a clear impact of pesticide exposure on enzymatic activity of individuals. Body condition of lizards decreased with increasing exposure and gender distribution was skewed in favor to males within exposed populations. Many reptile species regularly come into contact with pesticides and can be expected to suffer from oral and dermal exposure. Thus, we see that it is indispensable for reptiles to be integrated into risk assessments in order to improve conservation practice.
Mingo, V. & Wagner, N. & Müller, C. & Bracher, F. & Lötters, S. (2016) -
Minguez, L.E. & Alfonso, O.M. & Pether, J. & Mateo, J.A. (2007) -
Ministère de l`Écologie, du et de l`Energie (2012) -
Ministerie van Economische Zaken, Landbouw en Innovatie (2011) -
Ministerie van Landbouw, Natuurbeheer en Visserij (1992) -
Ministerio dell’Ambiente della Tutela del Territorio e del Mare (2007) -
Minobe, H. (1927) -
Minucci, S. & Vitiella, I.I. & Marmorino, C. & Dimatteo, L. & Baccardi, G.G. (1995) -
Minutini, L. & Innocenti, A. & Bertolucci, C. & Foà, A. (1995) -
The effects of electrolytic lesions to the suprachiasmatic nuclei of the hypothalamus (SCN) on circadian rhythms of locomotor activity were examined in ruin lizards Podarcis sicula maintained in constant darkness and constant temperature (29°C). All lizards (N=15) in which the lesion damaged 80% or more of the SCN became behaviorally arrhythmic. On the contrary, locomotor rhythms persisted in all cases (N=11) when the SCN remained intact and lesions were confined to neighbouring regions of the preoptic area. Taken together with previous work which demonstrates that the pineal and the retinae are not essential for the persistence of circadian locomotor rhythmicity in Podarcis sicula and with recent evidence showing the homology between the SCN of lizards and those of mammals the present results strongly support the view that the SCN of Podarcis sicula contain the primary pacemaker(s) for locomotor rhythms.
Minutini, L. & Fóa, A. (1993) -
Miosga, O. & Müller, W.R. (2014) -
Die 2009 entdeckte Zauneidechsen- Population unmittelbar am und innerhalb des Geländes des Munitionszerlegebetriebs im Hünxer Wald umfasste 2014 insgesamt wahrscheinlich etwa 76 adulte/ subadulte Tiere. Sie zählt, ohne Schlüpflinge, zu den mittelgroßen Populationen. Umfangreiche Maßnahmen zur Habitat-Optimierung wie die Anlage eines 155 Meter langen Erdwalles, einer 68 Meter langen Wurzelstubbenreihe, eines 80 Quadratmeter großen Eiablageplatzes und das Auslegen von Requisiten wie Baumstammfragmente, solitäre Wurzelstubben oder Totholzhaufen sollen den Lebensraum der Zauneidechse und langfristig somit den Erhaltungszustand der FFH-Art verbessern. Hierzu tragen auch langfristig festgelegte Habitat- Pflegemaßnahmen bei. Ein zukünftiges Monitoring wird klären, ob und wie die Echsen von den umgesetzten Maßnahmen profitieren werden.
Miqueleiz, A. & Iglesias Carrasco, M. & Cabido, C. (2014) -
In some lizard species, individuals occur in discrete, stable, genetically based colour morphs (CMs) which coexist at different equilibrium levels within the same population. Theory predicts that colour polymorphism is evolutionarily stable because morphs have exactly equal fitness or a fitness advantage when rare. Different CMs reflect alternative behavioural strategies related with reproduction (e.g. territoriality), which are modulated by complex interactions among environmental pressures in constant change (e.g. social interactions and relative morph density). Thus, the differences in fitness among morphs vary over time. We hypothesize that behavioural strategies reflected by CMs may affect to individual investment in other morphological, behavioural or physiological characteristics (related or not with reproduction) and they may imply different trade‐offs or correlations between them. To explore this hypothesis, we measured the following characteristics in pure CMs of male Podarcis muralis (orange, yellow and white morphs): sexual signalling investment (number of blue ocelli and phemoral pores), head size (related to male dominance), health status (immune response and parasite load), body condition, and personality (antipredatory and exploratory behaviour). We predict that different evolutionary pressures which promote the persistence of each CM also promote morph‐specific correlations between measured male characteristics. We found that CMs differed in head width and immune response (yellow and orange CMs over white in both cases) and number of phemoral pores and blue ocelli (orange and white CMs more than yellow in both cases). Immune response was positively related with body condition in white and yellow morphs, but not in orange ones. In the latter, body condition was positively related to the number of phemoral pores. Boldness to predation risk was positively related to head width in orange males, but negatively related in yellow ones. Finally, yellow males with more ocelli were bolder. Differences detected among CMs and morph‐specific correlations support our hypothesis. Results were discussed in the context of different behavioural strategies of each CM.
Miraldo, A. (2009) -
Lacerta lepida is a lizard species that occurs throughout the Iberian Peninsula. Detailed phylogeographic analysis of the species using mitochondrial DNA and nuclear sequence data revealed a history of population fragmentation and diversification in allopatry. Diversification within the species was estimated to have started in the Miocene probably related to geological events of the region, nevertheless a strong influence of Pleistocene climatic oscillations were also detected. Several glacial refugia and demographic range expansions after diversification in allopatry were detected leading to the establishment of several secondary contact zones. Detailed analysis of two secondary contact zones within the species was carried out. One of the secondary contact zones was characterized by the existence of intraindividual mitochondrial polymorphism. The origin of the polymorphism was identified to be the result of introgression of mitochondrial DNA fragments from one lineage into the nuclear genome of the other (Numts), suggesting that hybridization between the lineages occurred. Detailed phylogeographic analysis of the identified Numts allowed the inference of lineages recent demographic events. Additionally, further analysis of the polymorphic samples detected within this contact zone revealed the existence of low levels of heteroplasmy and mitochondrial DNA recombination, which until now was rarely reported for natural populations in the literature. Gene flow dynamics was assessed in another zone of secondary contact between two very divergent mitochondrial lineages, located in south-eastern Spain. The use of mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite data allowed the detection of restricted gene flow amongst the lineages. It was postulated that the two lineages are on independent evolutionary paths, and therefore should be considered as two different species. The molecular tools used throughout this study revealed that geological events, climatic changes, hybridization, and speciation have shaped the evolutionary history of Lacerta lepida.
Miraldo, A. & Faria, C. & Hewitt, G.M. & Paulo, O.S. & Emerson, B.C. (2013) -
Measuring the diffusion of genes between diverging taxa through zones of secondary contact is an essential step to understand the extent and nature of the reproductive isolation that has been achieved. Previous studies have shown that the ocellated lizard (Lacerta lepida Daudin, 1802) has endured repeated range fragmentation associated with the climatic oscillations of the Plio-Pleistocene that promoted diversification of many different evolutionary units within the species. However, the oldest divergence within the group is estimated to have occurred much earlier, during the Miocene, around 9 Ma and corresponds to the split between the subspecies Lacerta lepida nevadensis Buchholz (1963) and Lacerta lepida lepida Daudin (1802). Although these two evolutionary units have documented genetic and morphological differentiation, most probably accumulated during periods of allopatry, little is known about patterns of gene flow between them. In this study, we performed a population genetic analysis of a putative area of secondary contact between these two taxa, using mtDNA and microsatellite data. We assessed levels of gene flow across the contact zone to clarify to what extent gene flow may be occurring. Hybridization between the subspecies was observed by the presence of genetically introgressed individuals. However, the overall coincidence of mitochondrial and multilocus nuclear clines and generally steep clines support the idea that this contact zone is acting as a barrier to gene flow. Taken together, these results suggest that L. l. lepida and L. l. nevadensis are in independent evolutionary trajectories and should be considered as two different species.
Miraldo, A. & Hewitt, G.M. & Dear, P.H. & Paulo, O.S. & Emerson, B.C. (2012) -
In northwestern Iberia, two largely allopatric Lacerta lepida mitochondrial lineages occur, L5 occurring to the south of Douro River and L3 to the north, with a zone of putative secondary contact in the region of the Douro River valley. Cytochrome b sequence chromatograms with polymorphisms at nucleotide sites diagnostic for the two lineages were detected in individuals in the region of the Douro River and further north within the range of L3. We show that these polymorphisms are caused by the presence of four different numts (I–IV) co-occurring with the L3 genome, together with low levels of heteroplasmy. Two of the numts (I and II) are similar to the mitochondrial genome of L5 but are quite divergent from the mitochondrial genome of L3 where they occur. We show that these numts are derived from the mitochondrial genome of L5 and were incorporated in L3 through hybridization at the time of secondary contact between the lineages. The additional incidence of these numts to the north of the putative contact zone is consistent with an earlier postglacial northward range expansion of L5, preceding that of L3. We show that genetic exchange between the lineages responsible for the origin of these numts in L3 after secondary contact occurred prior to, or coincident with, the northward expansion of L3. This study shows that, in the context of phylogeographic analysis, numts can provide evidence for past demographic events and can be useful tools for the reconstruction of complex evolutionary histories.
Miraldo, A. & Hewitt, G.M. & Paulo, O.S. & Emerson, B.C. (2011) -
Background The Iberian Peninsula is recognized as an important refugial area for species survival and diversification during the climatic cycles of the Quaternary. Recent phylogeographic studies have revealed Iberia as a complex of multiple refugia. However, most of these studies have focused either on species with narrow distributions within the region or species groups that, although widely distributed, generally have a genetic structure that relates to pre-Quaternary cladogenetic events. In this study we undertake a detailed phylogeographic analysis of the lizard species, Lacerta lepida, whose distribution encompasses the entire Iberian Peninsula. We attempt to identify refugial areas, recolonization routes, zones of secondary contact and date demographic events within this species. Results Results support the existence of 6 evolutionary lineages (phylogroups) with a strong association between genetic variation and geography, suggesting a history of allopatric divergence in different refugia. Diversification within phylogroups is concordant with the onset of the Pleistocene climatic oscillations. The southern regions of several phylogroups show a high incidence of ancestral alleles in contrast with high incidence of recently derived alleles in northern regions. All phylogroups show signs of recent demographic and spatial expansions. We have further identified several zones of secondary contact, with divergent mitochondrial haplotypes occurring in narrow zones of sympatry. Conclusions The concordant patterns of spatial and demographic expansions detected within phylogroups, together with the high incidence of ancestral haplotypes in southern regions of several phylogroups, suggests a pattern of contraction of populations into southern refugia during adverse climatic conditions from which subsequent northern expansions occurred. This study supports the emergent pattern of multiple refugia within Iberia but adds to it by identifying a pattern of refugia coincident with the southern distribution limits of individual evolutionary lineages. These areas are important in terms of long-term species persistence and therefore important areas for conservation.
Miralles, A. & Geniez, P. & Beddek, M. & Mendez-Aranda, D. & Brito, J.C. & Leblois, R. & Crochet, P.-A. (2020) -
We generated an extensive morphological and multilocus molecular dataset to investigate the taxonomy of Acanthodactylus erythrurus, a widespread species across the Mediterranean and semiarid habitats of the Iberian Peninsula and the Maghreb. Our integrated analyses revealed the existence of at least five basal lineages: (i) an Ibero-Moroccan clade widespread across Morocco and the Iberian Peninsula, from sea-level up to a maximal known altitude of 1,930 m, (ii) an Algero-Tunisian clade, distributed in coastal and inland areas of eastern Algeria and Tunisia, (iii) a Central Algerian clade, formed by two inland populations located in central Algeria (1,000–1,500 m a.s.l.), (iv) a western High Atlas clade including two montane populations from Jbel Siroua and Tizi n’Tichka (at 2,320 m and 2,176 m a.s.l., respectively) and (v) an eastern High Atlas clade, including at least two montane populations from Isli and Tislit (both localities around 2,275 m a.s.l.). An integrated species delimitation approach combining molecular and multivariate morphological analyses demonstrated complete reproductive isolation and hence speciation between the Ibero-Moroccan clade and the eastern High Atlas clade in their contact zone. The divergence between all five clades is broadly similar, supporting the existence of at least five species in the Acanthodactylus erythrurus complex. In the present work we describe the two well-differentiated endemic species from the Moroccan Atlas for which no name is available: Acanthodactylus lacrymae sp. nov. from Isli and Tislit and A. montanus sp. nov. from Jbel Siroua and Tizi n’Tichka. Further work will be needed to fully resolve the taxonomy of this species complex.
Miras ferrer, M. & Mompart Fabregas, J.M. (2015) -
In this contribution we report the first case of albinism in Catalonian wall lizard (Podarcis liolepis) throughout its distribution, localized in Cànoves, Vallès Oriental (Catalonia).
Miras, J.A.M. & Cheylan, M. & Nouira, M.S. & Joger, U. & SÁ-Sousa, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2005) -
Miras, J.A.M. & Cheylan, M. & Nouira, M.S. & Joger, U. & Sá-Sousa, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2006) -
Mirc, M. & Tomasevic, K.N. & Stamenkovic, S. & Yukov, T. (2019) -
Urbanization is predominantly linked with negative effects on wildlife. Indeed, numerous human-induced environmental changes (e.g. habitat fragmentation and destruction, pollution, etc.) have a devastating effect on indigenous wildlife. However, urbanization, trough creating pockets of supernatural habitats, can have a positive effect on indigenous species. In our study, we wanted to examine how urbanization level (urban, suburban and natural habitats) affects Podarcis muralis populations across the Vojvodina region, Serbia. We tested (A) lizard’s pileus: (1) size and shape, (2) fluctuating asymmetry (FA), (3) allometry, (4) modularity, and (5) phenodeviant frequencies and (B) meristic traits (supraciliar plates, sublabial plates, subdigital lamellae of 4th hind limb toes, femoral pores): (1) fluctuating asymmetry (FA). Pileus examination gave some peculiar results: unexpectedly high FA level was observed in the natural population. On the other hand, analysis of meristic traits showed high FA in urban population. Importantly, some meristic characters revealed different patterns of FA, suggesting that caution must be practiced when deciding what characters are more appropriate for FA analysis. In addition, we built an ecological niche model for the populations inhabiting the Vojvodina region (consisted predominantly of anthropogenic habitats) and compared it with the one obtained for central and southern Serbia, where lizards mainly occupy natural habitats. With this comparison, we wanted to see what the similarities between natural and anthropogenic habitats are, and which environmental factors limit/enable common wall lizard to successfully inhabit urbanized areas.
The use of fluctuating asymmetry (FA) as a measure of developmental instability and its relationship to stress and fitness is highly controversial. We examined whether the selection of different FA indices and traits influences the results of FA analysis. We chose four meristic traits and three FA indices (two single-trait and two multiple-trait indices) to assess FA levels in the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) from three different habitat types (urban, suburban and natural). Urbanization has already been linked to developmental instability in P. muralis. We therefore expected to detect different FA levels among the habitats. However, we also wanted to see whether we obtained the same patterns using different indices and traits. Our results showed that different traits can yield different FA patterns between habitats. The only statistically significant difference between habitats was detected for the FA2 index in femoral pores. The highest level of FA was detected in the urban population, while the lowest level was in the natural population. It is clear that caution must be exerted when deciding on which traits and indices are to be used for FA analysis
Mirc, M.P. (2021) -
This thesis provides description of the ecological niche space of the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) in the Vojvodina region of Serbia with a detailed presentation of its distribution in the area. Additionally, a quantification of the developmental stability of the wall lizard in Vojvodina on an urbanization gradient is given. Finally, the ecological and conservational status of the species in the Vojvodina region is described. The species’ ecological niche space was analysed using the ENFA and MaxEnt modelling approaches, with ecogeographical variables derived from bioclimatic, atmospheric water regime, orographic, and land cover habitat variables. The obtained models were compared with models for peripanonian and mountainous Serbia since we believe the current distribution of the wall lizard in Vojvodina depends on ecological signals specifically present in the Vojvodina region but are absent in the two other ecogeographical regions of Serbia. Niche models for lizards in Vojvodina were significantly different from models for the peripanonian and mountainous regions of Serbia. The differences in ecological niche space were interpreted and related to the bionomy of the species. Ecological niche models revealed a wide distribution of the wall lizard across urban habitats of the Vojvodina region and a clear association with habitats of this type. Specifically, we identified a pattern of the close association of species’ presence with edge habitats of urban and industrial sites, and a general avoidance of agricultural habitats. In the other two regions, this signal was less pronounced with different habitat and orographic variables becoming more important. Overall, bionomic signals related to habitat structure were more important than scenopoetic signals related to abiotic conditions in defining the ecological space of this species in Serbia. Since urban habitats are generally believed to be stressful environments with numerous challenges to species’ overall fitness, we analyzed developmental stability of lizards across a gradient of urbanization to provide insight into the possible coping mechanisms of this species. Developmental stability was described by analyzing fluctuating asymmetry in qualitative characters of the pholidosis, as well as fluctuating asymmetry, allometry, modularity and integration of the pileus and frequency of phenodeviants in the pileus region of the lizard. Developmental stability results showed that urban and suburban lizard populations do not develop under more stressful conditions than populations from natural habitats, while they do have a more canalized developmental response. The wide distribution and a close connection to urbanized habitats with successful adaptation to new environments lead to the conclusion that the Common Wall Lizard should be considered as an indigenous species for the Vojvodina region, contrary to proposed qualifications.
Mirkovic, M.K. (2021) -
Mirtl, J.J. & Truelock, Z.T. & Sargent, B.A. & Engbrecht, N.J. (2024) -
Mishagina, J.V. (1991) -
Mishagina, J.V. (1992) -
Mishagina, J.V. (2008) -
Mishagina, J.V.M. (2005) -
Mishagina, J.V.M. (2007) -
Diet of sand racerunner (Eremias scripta, Lacertidae) was studied in barchan sands of Eastern Kara Kum (Turkmenistan, Repetek biosphere reserve) in May – June and in August, 1989. There were discovered remains of 424 prey items in feces of 28 individuals of E. scripta. The paper analyzes food habits of racerunners by biocoenotic indexing method. Lizards’ preys were divided into nineteen elementary ecological groups and several mass categories.
Mishagina, Z.V. (1988) -
Mishustin, S. (2022) -
The dissertation presents the results of long-term studies of the dynamics of the number, spatial and age-sex structure of populations of three main species of lizards of semi-deserts of the southeastern part of the Lower Volga region: Eremias arguta deserti Gmel., 1788, Phrynocephalus mystaceus mystaceus Pall., 1776 and Phrynocephalus guttatus guttatus Gmel., 1789. In all species, a decrease in numbers was revealed up to complete extinction (Phrynocephalus mystaceus mystaceus Pall., 1776). The cause of population changes were successional processes directed towards the development of steppe phytocenosis. The succession led to a gradual increase in the projective coverage, overgrowing of ecological corridors and a change in the tiering of the plant community. It has been reliably shown that changes in phytocenosis are associated with an increase in the total amount of precipitation in this area over the past decade.
Mishustin, S.S. & Polynova, G.V. (2020) -
The tail autotomy in the population of steppe runners (Eremias arguta deserti (Gmelin, 1789)) living in semi-deserts of the southeastern part of the Lower Volga region was studied. The proportion of lizards with the signs of tail autotomy was used as an indicator of predation pressure. It was found that the number of lizard individuals with autotomized (regenerated) tails increased throughout the research period (2017–2019). The correlation between the total abundance of lizards and the number of individuals with tail autotomy exhibits a direct and statistically insignificant dependence. The data obtained suggest that predators are low abundant, both in the study area and in the surrounding territories, and, thus, they have no considerable influence on the size of the population of lizards. No autotomy as a result of intra- and interspecific contacts was recorded. In the spring field seasons, the lizard individuals with autotomized (regenerated) tails were mainly mature males and females. In the autumn periods, they were exclusively underyearlings. In the population under consideration, lizards with the signs of tail autotomy were more frequent among the migrating individuals. There were no quantitative differences in the presence of tail autotomy between males and females.
Mishustin, S.S. & Polynova, G.V. (2021) -
The investigation in the population structure of the western subspecies of the multicolored lizard (Eremias arguta deserti Gmelin, 1789) was carried out in semi-deserts of the Lower Volga region. The purpose of the study was to find out the features of the population morphometric data. The main research methods: measuring the length of the trunk and tail with an accuracy of up to a millimeter, statistical data processing using the Kolmogorov – Smirnov test in the STATISTICA 12 program. Statistical analysis showed the presence of sexual dimorphism in the population in terms of body parameters: the length of the tail of males is significantly greater than that of females. The calculation of the statistical significance of the differences be- tween the average length of the trunk and the length of the tail confirmed that males and females have longer tails than the trunk. Yet sexually mature males and females do not differ signifi- cantly from each other in terms of body size. At the same time, females have a certain variability of morphometric data, which serves as one of the main indicators of intra-population variability.
Мишустин, С.С. & Полынова, Г.В. (2021) -
В процессе изучения популяционной структуры западного подвида разноцветной ящурки (Eremias arguta deserti Gmelin, 1789) в полупустынях юго- восточной части Нижнего Поволжья получен значительный объем морфометрических данных, обработка которого позволила выявить морфологические особенности иссле- дованной популяции. Основные методы исследований: измерение длины туловища и хвоста с точностью до миллиметра, статистическая обработка данных с помощью кри- терия Колмогорова – Смирнова в программе STATISTICA 12. Статистический анализ показал наличие у популяции полового диморфизма по параметрам тела: длина хвоста самцов достоверно больше, чем самок. Расчет показателя статистической значимости различий между средней длиной туловища и длиной хвоста подтвердил, что у самцов и самок хвосты длиннее туловища. В то же время по параметру размера туловища поло- возрелые самцы и самки достоверно друг от друга не отличаются. Одновременно самки обладают определенной вариативностью морфометрических данных, что служит одним из основных показателей внутрипопуляционной изменчивости.
Mishustin, S.S. & Polynova, G.V. (2022) -
One of the aspects of studies of micropopulations of (Eremias arguta deserti Gmelin, 1789) and (Phrynocephalus guttatus guttatus Gmelin, 1789) in the conditions of the southeastern part of the Lower Volga region was the observation of inter-seasonal fluctuations in body weight of individuals. Males of Eremias arguta deserti are consistently heavier in the spring than females. In the autumn periods, the results turned out to be contradictory and do not make it possible to conclude which individuals of which sex have the greatest mass. Statistical processing of materials using the Kruskal — Walli’s criterion (H) did not reveal significant differences in Eremias arguta deserti when comparing the mass of all females and males both for all periods and separately in spring and autumn periods. Phrynocephalus g. guttatus also showed no statistical significance when comparing all males and females for the entire period. However, the results obtained when comparing between females and males during the 2018 season, as well as when comparing females of different years, were statistically significant. In addition, the body weight of fingerlings of both groups, between the autumn seasons of 2017 and 2018, revealed statistical significance. Individuals of both Phrynocephalus g. guttatus and Eremias arguta deserti steadily gain body weight, despite the slowdown or complete stop of the growth of individuals in the former and autotomy in the latter. Regeneration of the tail or its absence obviously affects the growth of the trunk of Eremias arguta deserti.
Misyura, A.N. & Bulakhov, V.L. & Gasso, V.Y. & Sukhanova, V.N. & Poloz, O.V. (1995) -
Miszkurka, A. & Pabijan, M. & Lachowska-Cierlik, D. (2020) -
Environmental factors influence the quality of chemical communication.In urban and non-urban areas, different factors act differently. 49 lizards from different locations were examined and the composition of the femoral secretions was determined using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Principal components analysis was performed for the collected data. The location (the lizard`s location) and the chemical composition of the exudate are unrelated, while the populations in urban areas differed from non-urban populations in terms of the number of components. A correlation was found between the occurrence of a certain population and the composition of secretions. Compounds such as stigmastanol, teradecanal, pentadecanal, isomer II and III of 9,12-octadecadienoic acid and sugars were not detected in the non-urban population, but were found in large amounts in lizards in urbanized areas. The observed differences are probably the result of a need to produce the stable and well-detectable compounds in various environments.
Mitov, P. (1995) -
Mitsi, K. & Adamopoulou, C. & Legakis, A. (2016) -
The Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus, with a native distribution in the Italian Peninsula, Sicily and the north Adriatic coast appears to be an efficient colonizer with several established introduced populations outside its range. In this study we report morphological and other characteristics of the recently located colony in Athens, the first known in Greece. The study was carried out using animals that were collected in three different attempts to remove the introduced species from the wild (October 2014, April and May 2015). Five meristic and seven metric characters were recorded for 32 adult males and 57 adult females. Mean body size (SVL) for males was 64.69 mm (n = 32, range: 51- 82 mm) and for females 60.58 mm (n = 57, range: 46-75 mm). There was a clear sexual dimorphism in the population; males had significantly longer, wider and taller heads than females, bigger body size and longer legs. Concerning the reproductive traits of the population we found that clutch size ranged from 4 to 11 eggs with a mean of 6 eggs. Maximum length for oviductal eggs (n = 121) was 13.1 mm and maximum width 8.3 mm. Larger females had bigger clutches, but no other significant relation was found between the parameters studied. In the diet of the population we recorded a constant presence of plant parts: 68% of the examined stomachs in the October sample, 73% in April and 90% in the May sample. As for the invertebrate prey, Hymenoptera (winged ants) predominated in the October diet (present in the 82% of the stomachs) while Isopoda (42%), Hymenoptera (42%) and Coleoptera (32%) during May. Sand was also present in 21%, 31% and 81% of the stomachs in October, April and May respectively. Our results were discussed with respect to other populations of P. siculus primarily in its native range.
Mittelholzer, A. (1953) -
Mizsei, E. & Budai, M. & Moré, A. & Rák, G. & Radovics, D. & Bancsik, B. & Wenner, B. & Marton, S. & Korsós, Z. & Vadàsz, C. (2023) -
Understanding the factors that determine the abundance of populations is of key importance in conservation biology, ecology, and biogeography. For grassland-associated species, such as the Hungarian meadow viper (Vipera ursinii rakosiensis), habitat management is particularly important. We aimed to study the effects of the three most common types of grassland management (grazing, mowing, and mowing + grazing) on the abundance of reptile species in meadow viper habitats in Kiskunság National Park, in Hungary. We surveyed grasslands repeatedly (n = 15 occasions) for reptiles in one autumn and one spring season in three 1-ha quadrates per grassland management type. We recorded all reptiles and their activity related to operative temperatures and analyzed data by n-mixture models. All reptile species known to occur in the habitats were observed during the surveys, but only the green lizard, sand lizard, and Hungarian meadow viper reached the minimum number of observations required for detailed analyses. Grazing had a strong positive effect on the abundance of Hungarian meadow vipers and sand lizards, while both mowing and mowing + grazing rotation had a negative effect. None of the grassland management types affected green lizard abundance. Our results suggest that grazing is the ideal type of grassland management for the endangered Hungarian meadow viper and the sand lizard. Mowing and mowing + grazing should be replaced by grazing to ensure the effectiveness of habitat management for conservation and to maintain healthy populations of grassland-associated reptile species.
Mizsei, E. & Jablonski, D. & Végvári, Z. & Lengyel, S. & Szabolcs, M. (2017) -
Although Albania has a rich reptile fauna, efforts to reveal its diversity have so far been limited. To fill this gap, we collected available published and unpublished (museum collections, online sources) records of reptile occurrences and conducted several expeditions to search for reptiles in areas with few or no previous records. Our georeferenced database contains 3731 records of 40 species from between 1918 and 2015. Based on this comprehensive dataset, we prepared distribution maps for each reptile species of the country. Applying spatial statistics, we revealed that overall sampling effort was clustered, with hotspots associated with easily accessible areas and natural heritage sites. The maximum number of species per cell was 26 with an average of seven. Cells harbouring large reptile diversity were located along the Adriatic and Ionian coasts, on the western slopes of south Albanian mountains, i.e. in areas generally considered as Balkans biodiversity hotspots or potential historical refugia. We found that species presence and diversity is strongly influenced by landscape features. Diversity of land cover, altitudinal variation, temperature and precipitation variation explained the observed pattern in our models. Our study presents the largest database of reptile occurrences to date and is the first to analyse reptile diversity patterns in Albania. The database and the diversity patterns can provide a basis for future macroecological studies and conservation planning.
Mizsei, E. & Uhrin, M. & Jablonski, D. & Szabolcs, M. (2016) -
The occurrence of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) in Albania is confirmed. Our findings are now the southernmost known records of the species on the eastern Adriatic coast, and officially present a new reptile species for the Albanian herpetofauna. The origin of these records is discussed; molecular investigation is needed for future evaluation of P. siculus populations in Albania and the western Balkans.
Mladenovic, A. (2013) -
The main goal of this study was to obtain an information on average fitness of observed lizard populations and to detect possible diferences in conditional index between populations. We captured and examined male lizards from two urban areas (area of Niš) and two non-urbal areas (villages Sićevo and Donji Dušnik, about 30 km further from Niš) during reproductive season. The study was conducted from april to june of year 2011. Lizards were captured using the noosing methode. Within the area of Niš fortress we examined 49 individuals, within the area of Donji Dušnik we examined 29 individuals, within the of Palilula (urban area) 42 and within the area of Sićevo 41 individuals. After capturing The data we obtained by measuring, were processed with One-way ANOVA statistical method, where the measurement variable was body condition index and the nominal variable was population. Differences in body condition index between populations were found but did not support our hypothesis. Populations showing highest (Niš fortress) and lowest (Palilula) body condition index values were both located in urban areas, while non-urban populations had similar values. We assume that the cause of the highest values of body condition index were found in the urban area is the presence of high walls in this particular area. These walls were made by men but lizards have adjusted so well to this antropogenicaly changed environment, that it does not mean a disturbance for them but the advantage, compared to the other examined populations. For more detailed conclusions on the matter, further analysis of predation pressure and food availability in these habitats are needed.
Mlynarski, M. (1956) -
Fossil remains are here described of Lacertlia collected from the bone breccia of Węże, Poland. They consist mostly of skull and mandible fragments, also of vertebrae and bone scales referable to genera Lacerta, Ophisaurus and others, not more closely identifiable. These reptiles come very near to representatives of the same genera described from the Pliocene of Hungary. Ophisaurus pannonicus Kormos occurs in both these faunal assemblages.
Mo, M. & Mo, E. (2021) -
Moazen, M. & Costantini, D. & Bruner, E. (2013) -
Cranial sutures are sites of bone growth and development but micromovements at these sites may distribute the load across the skull more evenly. Computational studies have incorporated sutures into finite element (FE) models to assess various hypotheses related to their function. However, less attention has been paid to the sensitivity of the FE results to the shape, size, and stiffness of the modeled sutures. Here, we assessed the sensitivity of the strain predictions to the aforementioned parameters in several models of fronto-parietal (FP) suture in Lacerta bilineata. For the purpose of this study, simplifications were made in relation to modeling the bone properties and the skull loading. Results highlighted that modeling the FP as either an interdigitated suture or a simplified butt suture, did not reduce the strain distribution in the FP region. Sensitivity tests showed that similar patterns of strain distribution can be obtained regardless of the size of the suture, or assigned stiffness, yet the exact magnitudes of strains are highly sensitive to these parameters. This study raises the question whether the morphogenesis of epidermic scales in the FP region in the Lacertidae is related to high strain fields in this region, because of micromovement in the FP suture.
Mobbs, A.J. (1979) -
Mochales Riano, G. (2020) -
Coevolution is the process of reciprocal evolutionary change between interacting species. This process is thought tobe a major driver of biological diversification and has been linked to speciation. Coordinatedevolution between nuclear and organelle genomes can occur by reciprocal changes in the functional constraints of interacting proteins, and even playing an important role in speciation. In this master`s thesis, we used target-capture sequencing data from 122 individuals from two different mitochondrial lineages to test the compensatory evolution hypothesis by comparing the phylogenetic trees of three diferent types of genes: mtDNA, nuclear genes interacting with mitochondrias (oxphos genes) or random nuclear genes. Our results showed the two different mitochondrial lineages. Tajima`s D test also showed mitochondria to be under strong purifying selection. However, differences were not observed between the oxphos and the nuclear genes. More studies should be carried out to confirm or not the compensatory evolution hypothesisin this lizard specieswith the data produced in this study.
Mochida, K. & Sasai, T. & Kadota, Y. & Nishikawa, M. & Itou, M.M. & Toda, M. (2018) -
Thermal reaction norms of sprint speed were examined in three lacertid lizard species (Takydromus tachydromoides, T. smaragdinus, and T. dorsalis). We found inter- and intraspecific variations in maximum sprint speed, optimal body temperature, and thermal performance breadth for the best sprints. The thermal performance breadth of T. smaragdinus was broader than that of T. tachydromoides or T. dorsalis, whereas T. dorsalis sprinted faster than the others. In T. smaragdinus, individuals with narrower performance breadths run faster within their thermal range of expertise. There were “specialist” individuals of which performance depended heavily on high temperatures, as well as “generalist” individuals that performed well over a broad range of temperatures even within a single population. We discussed that the spatiotemporal instability of habitats might favor more than one type of thermal reaction norm of sprint performance, and this phenomenon may be driven by specialist–generalist trade-offs.
Mochida, K. & Takenaka, S. & Toda, M. (2013) -
Mocquard, F. (1888) -
Mocquard, F. (1897) -
Mocquard, F. (1910) -
Modry, D. & Al-Oran, R.M. & Amr, Z.S. & Necas, P. (1999) -
Modry, D. & Koudela, B. & Slapeta, J. (1998) -
Modrý, D. & Necas, P. & Rifai, L. & Bischoff, W. & Hamidan, N. & Amr, Z. (2013) -
A new lacertid, the Wadi Ramm Rock Lizard, Phoenicolacerta kulzeri khazaliensis ssp. n. from Wadi Ramm, southern Jordan, is described. Its morphological features are discussed in comparison with other populations of P. kulzeri, all known data on its biology are presented.
Modry, D. & Rifai, L. & Abu Baker, M. & Amr, Z. (2004) -
Jordan has a very diversified morphology, which is reflected also in the diversity of its herpetofauna. A total 90 amphibian and reptilian species is known to inhabit Jordan. Of those three are amphibians, with the fourth species most probably already extinct, 47 are lizard species, 35 are snake species and five turtle species. The amphibians are represented by three different families, lizards and snakes both by seven families and turtles by four families. The distribution, ecology and systematics for most species are given.
Moellendorff, O. von (1873) -
Moeller, T. (1990) -
Moereno Rueda, G. (2014) -
Psammodromus algirus’ dorsal colouration varies along an altitudinal gradient in Sierra Nevada (Spain). An observed parallel variation in ground colour suggests this variation could be due to crypsis. To examine this possibility, we sampled the colouration of the lizards and environmental elements in populations at different elevations along the gradient. Then, we analysed the relation between lizards’ colouration and the colour of their environment as well as their relation to lizards’ biological features. Results evidenced crypsis being in play and varying along the gradient. Inter-population differences in the degree of crypsis appear to be determined by differences among populations in predation pressure or in relative importance of other selective pressures over colouration (thermoregulation and UV-protection). On the other hand, intra-population variance could be the result of the presence of mixed strategies in response to predators (crypsis or fleeing), associated to differences in behaviour and metabolic resource allocation according to the lizard condition (tail regeneration and female gravidity).
Moffat, L.A. & D´A. Bellairs (1964) -
Many studies have been made on autotomy and regeneration of the tail in lizards; for example those by Woodland (1920) and Hughes & New (1959) on geckos, by Slotopolsky (1922) on Lacerta, by Barber (1944) and Kamrin & Singer (1955) on Anolis, and by Simpson (1964) on Lygosoma. This work is concerned with the adult, and, so far as we are aware, no comparable studies on young and embryonic lizards have been made. Indeed, the application of experimental techniques to reptilian embryology is still in its infancy (see Holder & Bellairs, 1962, 1963). In 1956 Panigel found that embryos of the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) would develop, sometimes until hatching, when removed from the mother and kept under sterile moist conditions in a form of culture. Their yolk is sufficient for nourishment, and the rudimentary type of allanto-placenta which he describes seems to have no significant nutritive function.
Mohammadi, A.R. & Kami, H.G. (2011) -
The Lizards on the network to life, food chain and ecosystems are outstanding dry place. Zoology around the world to identify these animals has done many studies. The results lead to new species by mapping their geographical distribution has been. Ardabil Province, including areas in which considerable research has been done on reptiles. Therefore, this study tried to limit the power and possibilities in the province and the study adhered to the sample. This study was done in 2009. The materials of the study were collected during spring, summer, fall and late winter. This reserch were collected 21 specimens at the Darevskia Genus, and Morphologic, morphometric and meristic characteristics have shown that 4 specimens collected are Darevskia chlorogaster. Furthermore, in this study the Darevskia chlorogaster was collected from East Ardabil province for the first time, however, its distribution map wasn`t included in East Ardabil province.
Mohammed, R.G. & Rhadi, F.A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. (2017) -
There are five terrestrial biomes found in Palearctic realm of Iraq: Temperate broadleaf and mixed forests; Temperate grasslands, Savanas and shrublands; Flooded grasslands and Savannas; Mediterranean forests, woodlands and scrub; deserts and xeric shrublands. The presence of these ecozones resulted in a considerable heterogeneity of the herpetofauna of Iraq. With considering lizards fauna, we collected 400 lizard specimens that classified into 18 species, 11genera and five families, were distributed throughout central and southern Iraq and their zoogeographical affinities about: 44.44% Palearictic, 33.33% Arabian and 22.22% Saharo-Sindian.
Mohapatra, P.P. & Bhilala, A. & Jena, S.K. & Durgesh, K. (2023) -
Moigne, C. le & Jailloux, A. (2013) -
Mokracka, J. & Kryzmoinska, S. & Altunin, D. & Wasyl, D. & Koczura, R. & Dudek, K. & Dudek, M. & Chylenska, Z.A. & Ekner-Grzyk, A. (2018) -
The aim of this study was to estimate virulence potential of Salmonella enterica strains colonizing the gut of free-living sand lizards (Lacerta agilis L.). The strains belonged to three Salmonella serovars: Abony, Schleissheim, and Telhashomer. Adhesion and invasion abilities of the strains were determined in quantitative assays using the gentamicin protection method. Induction of apoptosis was assessed using HeLa cell monolayers. PCR assays were used for detection of 26 virulence genes localised within mobile elements: pathogenicity islands, virulence plasmids, and prophage sequences. In vitro studies revealed that all strains had adhesion and invasion abilities to human epithelial cells. The isolates were cytotoxic and induced apoptosis of the cells. The serovars differed in the number of virulence-associated genes: up to 18 genes were present in Salmonella Schleissheim, 17 in Salmonella Abony, whereas as few as six genes were found in Salmonella Telhashomer. Generally, Salmonella Abony and Salmonella Schleissheim did not differ much in gene content connected with the presence SPI-1 to -5. All of the strains lacked genes localised within bacteriophages and plasmids. The presence of virulence-associated genes and in vitro pathogenicity assays suggest that Salmonella sp. strains originating from autochthonous, free-living lizards can potentially infect and cause disease in humans.
Molavi, F. & Kalat, T.M. & Yazdanpanah, M. & Kiabi, B.H. & Kami, H.G. (2017) -
Markazi Province with its extended deserts and Anderson reported Eremias intermedia Strauch 1876, from Iran-Afghanistan border and Eremias nigrocellata Nikolsky 1896 from north and east of Iran. He also represented some features for recognition of these similar species. This study that lasted about one year was aimed at identifying herpetofauna of Kharturan protected area. 15 specimens of Eremias were obtained their measurements in agreement with the characters of neither Eremias intermedia nor Eremias nigrocellata that descrtibed by Anderson from Iran.
Mole, S. (2008) -
Introduced populations of Western Green Lizard (Lacerta bilineata) and Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) were discovered on Boscombe cliffs in 2002. Since then both species have been recorded as breeding successfully, but a more comprehensive investigation of their population was required. In this investigation, for the first time, a static survey path was followed over the cliff top adjacent to where they first recorded in an attempt to plot their current territory and compare their numbers against the native Viviparous Lizard (Zootoca vivipara). Fifteen surveys were undertaken between April and September 2007 and at their completion had recorded 214 non-native and 44 native Lacertids. The range covered by these species showed that the two introduced species dominated the central area of the site with the native species only found in large numbers on the periphery. When these recordings were compared to previous records held by the Herpetological Conservation Trust the number of introduced species showed a marked increase (P. muralis increased between 2002 and 2007 by 40 % and L. bilineata by 36 %; compared with Z. vivipara which dropped by 75 % over the same period). This increase was also shown when compared as a percentage against Z. vivipara sightings. A longer survey period is however required to prove any detrimental effects on the native lizard numbers. The vegetation at sites where L. bilineata was observed was surveyed and it was clear that vegetation structure rather than the species of vegetation was a larger factor on the lizard’ distribution. With this in mind it will be quite possible for both species to spread unimpeded along the cliffs. The spread of these introduced lizards may also affect a Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis) colony farther west if this site, but that will require more on-going investigation to determine the competitive impact that may occur there.
Mole, S.R.C. (2010) -
Introduced populations of Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis were discovered on Boscombe cliffs in 2002. Since then both species have been breeding successfully. This investigation plotted their territory in 2007 and compared their population trends with that of the native Zootoca vivipara. Fifteen survey visits were undertaken between April and September 2007 during which time observations were made of 214 non-native and 44 native lizards. The two introduced species dominated the central area of the site with the native species found in substantial numbers only on the periphery. Comparison with previously collected survey data show that the relative abundance of non-native species has increased; between 2002 and 2007 P. muralis increased by 40% and L. bilineata by 36%; compared with Z. vivipara which declined by 75%. Sufficient habitat favourable to the introduced species means that there is the potential for unimpeded range expansion along the cliffs, which raises concern for a sand lizard Lacerta agilis population to the west of this site. Eradication of the non-native species may be impractical because they occur on a relatively inaccessible cliff face.
Molen, S. van der (1999) -
Molenaar, F. & Sainsbury, A. (2009) -
Molenaar, F. & Sainsbury, A. (2010) -
Molenaar, F. & Sainsbury, A. & Marschang, R. (2008) -
Molina Borja, M. (1981) -
Molina Borja, M. (1985) -
s wurde das Verhalten einer Eidechsenpopulation in dem Gebiet von Buenavista (NO Teneriffa) untersucht, und zwar mit dem Ziele, raum-zeitliche Aspekte des Verhaltens zu klären. Ein Rechteck von 352 m² wurde dort abgesteckt und darauf ein Gitternetz aus Stäben in Abständen von 2 m gesetzt, um das Verhalten mit dem jeweiligen Standort in Verbindung bringen zu können. Von dem Versteck aus wurde in den Monaten April, Mai, Juni jeweils an zwei Tagen jede Woche beobachtet, und der Wandel der Verhaltensweisen sowie die Benutzung des Raumes durch die Einzelexemplare registriert. Die Aktivität begann in den Morgenstunden und trat in folgender chronologischer Reihenfolge auf: Sonnen- und Erkundungsverhalten, Aggression und Balz. Um die Mittagszeit ließ die Aktivität nach. Die Einzugsgebiete hatten eine errechnete Ausdehnung von 15 bis 89 m² bei den ♂ und 22,4 bis 77,7m² bei den ♀. In allen Fällen überlappten sich die Bereiche der einzelnen Individuen. Obgleich wahrscheinlich keine Individuenreviere vorhanden sind, wurden doch einzelne Plätze gegen Eindringlinge verteidigt.
Molina Borja, M. (1986) -
Several behaviour patterns that appear during courting of females by male lizards are described for two different Canarian subspecies: Gallotia galloti eisentrauti and G. galloti palmae. A report of copulation in G.galloti caesaris is also included. The importance of the courting behaviour as a character for studying behaviour evolution and taxonomic relationships is discussed in relation to another behavioural character previously cited by other authors.
Molina Borja, M. (1987) -
From the study of behaviour of the lizard Gallotia galloti in a natural population of the Northwest of Tenerife (Canary Islands) some behaviour patterns, which had not been previously discovered could be described in detail. The lizards were observed through binoculars from a hide during several days per week of April, May and June. The actual sequence of behaviour patterns was verbally recorded on a microcasette and those that were discovered for the first time were carefully described using the “by consequence” criterion and considering behaviour as a series of discrete events. The presently described behaviour patterns contribute to enlarge the behavioural catalogue of the studied species and some of them are cited as lacertid lizards for the first time. The possible function of the patterns is also discussed.
Molina Borja, M. (1991) -
The alimentary habits of lizard specimens are described from behavioral observations of a natural population of the species Gallotia galloti. The spatial and temporal distribution of eating behaviours in the studies specimens were also analysid for a selected area of 352 m². The results showed that the cited population had a mainly vegetable diet, principally Opuntia fruits and Launaea arborescens flowers, although it also fed on some insects. On the other hand, the temporal distribution of different eating behaviours was influenced by the weather, being more sommon in hours near middaxy. Overlapping spatial distribution of eating behaviours for the different animals was observed.
Molina Borja, M. (1994) -
Molina Borja, M. (1996) -
In order to contribute to a comparative view on lacertids, the effect of pinealectomy on the freerunning activity displayed under constant darkness and temperature (27.5°C ± 0.5) has been studied in the lizard Gallotia galloti eisentrauti. Animals showed an entrained motor activity rhythm under an initial light-dark (12:12 hours) routine and freerunning circadian periods ranging between 24.1 and 25.5 h during constant darkness (periodograms obtained by Sokolove & Bushell`s method). After pinealectomy, most animals showed no significant circadian rhythm, their locomotor activity becoming diffuse throughout the whole 24 h period. Thus, the pineal gland seems to play an important role as a main pacemaker regulating the endogenous activity rhythm under constant conditions. This result contrasts with that found in Podarcis sicula where after pinealectomy only changes in length of the freerunning period were found.
Molina Borja, M. (2002) -
Molina Borja, M. (2003) -
I examined sexual dimorphism in the lacertids Gallotia atlantica atlantica and Gallotia atlantica mahoratae from Lanzarote and Fuerteventura Islands, respectively. Mean body size was smaller in G. a. mahoratae than in G. a. atlantica. Sexual size dimorphism was greater in G. a. atlantica than in G. a. mahoratae, but relative size of several morphological traits was not different between the two populations. In both subspecies, head and body traits scaled to SVL, with head size of males having a positive allometry, indicating a disproportionate increase of this trait with the increase in body size. Relative size in hind-limb length was greater in males than in females in G. a. atlantica but not in G. a. mahoratae.
Molina Borja, M. & Bannert, B. & Bischoff, W. (2001) -
Molina Borja, M. & Barquin, E. (1986) -
Molina Borja, M. & Bischoff, W. (1998) -
Molina Borja, M. & Mesa, G. (2001) -
Molina Borja, M. & Padron-Fumero, M. & Alfonso-Martin, T. (1997) -
Within and between-population variation differences in size andcolor pattern traits are described for the lizards Gallotia galloti eisentrauti and G. g. galloti from two different habitats. For males, snout-vent length (SVL), head length (HL), cheek mark length (CML), and the number of ventral patches (NVP) were all greater in G. g. eisentrauti. The first lateral patch (FLPL) was longer in males of G. g. galloti but the number of lateral blue patches (NLBP) did not differ. Considering all traits, male CML and FLPL had the greatest coefficients of variation in both races. Snout-vent length and HL were greater in G. g. eisentrauti females than in G. g. galloti females, while the opposite occurred for NLBO and NVP. Adult male to adult female SVL ratio, a measure of body size dimorphism, was 1.19 for G. g. eisentrauti and 1.21 for G. g. galloti. For most animals. Lateral patch color was in the 5 PB (purple-blue) step of the Munsell System Chart, and value and chroma were 3-4 and 6, respectively. ANCOVA of the HL-SVL relationship showed a significant difference between male and female HL in both races; this difference may reflect differences in HL growth. The data are discussed in relation to information on male intrasexual competition.
Molina Borja, M. & Padron-Fumero, M. & Alfonso-Martin, T. (1998) -
This study describes the sequence of behaviour during aggressive encounters between male ‘tizón’ lizards (G. galloti galloti) and assesses the effect of morphological and behavioural traits on the outcome and intensity of staged aggressive encounters between males. Aggressive encounters ranged from only throat extension to escalated fights with biting and rolling over. Winners were heavier, had longer heads, and performed tongue-flicking, throat extension and biting at a higher rate than losers. The rate of aggressive behaviour increased with decreasing difference in snout-to-vent length, head length and head width of the contestants. The results are in agreement with some predictions of the sequential assessment game model in that probability of victory increased with the difference in fighting ability and that the rate of aggressive behaviour was higher in contests between animals of similar size.
Molina Borja, M. & Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. (2004) -
The aim was to study as to how biometric and life-history traits of endemic lacertids in the Canary Islands (genus Gallotia) may have evolved, and possible factors affecting the diversification process of this taxon on successively appearing islands have been deduced. To that end, comparative analyses of sexual dimorphism and scaling of different body, head and life-history traits to body size in 10 species/subspecies of Gallotia have been carried out. Both Felsenstein`s independent contrasts and Huey and Bennett`s `minimum evolution` analyses show that male and female snout-vent length (SVL) changed proportionally (sexual size dimorphism not changing with body size) throughout the evolution of these lizards and all within-sex biometric traits have changed proportionally to SVL. Life-history traits (size at sexual maturity, clutch size, hatchling SVL and mass, and life span) are highly correlated with adult female body size, the first two being the only traits with a positive allometry to female SVL. These results, together with the finding that the slope of hatchling SVL to female SVL regression was lower than that of SVL at maturity to female SVL, indicates that larger females reach maturity at a larger size, have larger clutches and, at the same time, have relatively smaller hatchlings than smaller females. There was no significant correlation between any pair of life-history traits after statistically removing the effect of body size. As most traits changed proportionally to SVL, the major evolutionary change has been that of body size (a ca. threefold change between the largest and the smallest species), that is suggested to be the effect of variable ecological conditions faced by founder lizards in each island.
Molina-Borja, M. (1980) -
Molina-Borja, M. (1986) -
Molina-Borja, M. (1987) -
The temporal and spatial distribution of various aggressive and courting behaviors of the lacertid lizardGallotia galloti was studied in Tenerife (the Canary Islands) for several days from April to June, by direct observations with binoculars from a hide situated near the study area. Aggressive behaviors were exhibited by the lizards throughout the whole recording period and were more frequently shown on sunny days or near the midday hours of cloudy days. The same occurred for courting behaviors, but these were less frequently seen in April and May. The spatial distribution of both kinds of behaviors for each lizard proved to be overlapped, thus confirming the non-territoriality of this lizard population.
Molina-Borja, M. (1991) -
Molina-Borja, M. (2003) -
Molina-Borja, M. & Bohórquez Alonso, M.L. & González Ortega, C. & Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. (2004) -
Molina-Borja, M. & Font, E. & Mesa Ávila, G. (2006) -
Sex and population differences in the ultraviolet (UV) reflectance patterns of two phenotypically divergent lacertids from Tenerife, Gallotia galloti eisentrauti and G. g. galloti, are described. Adults in both populations have rows of lateral and ventro-lateral blue patches on either side of the trunk that show a single peak of reflectance in the near UV. The lateral patches of males are more intensely reflective than those of females, but females have more chromatic and UV-shifted lateral patches than males. Most G. g. eisentrauti and some G. g. galloti also have blue cheek patches on either side of the gular area. Male cheek patches have reflectance peaks in the near UV, whereas those of females peak in the visible part of the spectrum. The lateral patches of males from the two populations differ in hue but not in intensity, those of G. g. galloti being more UV-shifted than those of G. g. eisentrauti. Female G. g. galloti have more intensely reflective lateral patches than female G. g. eisentrauti. Interindividual variation in peak wavelength and/or UV chroma is present in both sexes and populations. This is the first demonstration of sexual dichromatism in the UV reflectance of colour patches in a lacertid.
Molina-Borja, M. & Gomez-Soutullo, T. (1984) -
Molina-Borja, M. & Gonzalez-Gonzalez, J. & Gomez-Soutullo, T. & Garcia-Diaz, C. (1986) -
Activity data from two experimental lizard groups were analysed in order to search for 24 h‐entrained and ultradian periodicities. The data of a first group were obtained through motion sensitive platforms situated under the animals’ cage and continuously for up to 12 consecutive days; those from a second group were collected by manual recording of the behaviour patterns of individual animals for 2 h each day over a 10‐day period. Lizards from both groups were situated in cages inside isolated chambers in which a light‐dark cycle (12:12), a temperature of 28°C ±1° and a relative humidity of 50–60% were maintained. Periodogram analysis showed the existence of a significant period peak (p < 0.01) at 24 h. Autocorrelation functions and spectral analysis of different data‐segment lengths showed that ultradian periodicities were present in the daily motor activity, appearing as noisy though frequency‐band limited. Differences in the frequency band‐limited fluctuations were found between morning and afternoon activities: during the morning ultradian activity appears distributed in two bands (4.5–36 c/day and 63–94 c/day), the power being mainly concentrated in the second one, while during the afternoon it was in the 4.5–36 c/day band. Results from the second lizard group showed only one band (24–60 c/day) overlapped with the first one from the latter group. Although activity recording methods and some experimental conditions are discussed as possible sources of these differences, the possibility of endogenous ultradian variation within the individuals is also suggested.
Molina-Borja, M. & Mesa-Ávila, G. (2001) -
Molina-Borja, M. & Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. (1998) -
Molina-Borja, M. & Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. & Gonbzález-Ortega, C. & Bohórquez-Alonso, M.L. (2010) -
We co mpared sexual dimorphism of body and head traits from adult lizards of populations of Gallotia caesaris living in ecologically different habitats of El Hierro and La Gomera. Males had larger body sizes than females, and sexual size and shape dimorphism were greater in a population from La Gomera than in three populations from El Hierro. Multivariate analysis of variance, using linear and shape-adjusted traits, showed that the populations differed significantly in body and head traiuts, with pileus (head) width, snout-vent length (SVL), and body mass the main traits contributing to the differences. Males had larger SVL, heads, and limbs than females in all populations, but SVL relative to a shape index (calculated as the geometric mean of several body parameters) was larger in females than in males. Moreover, shapeadjusted hind-lim b lengths were significantly shorter in lizards from the more densely vegetated habitats than in those from the less vegetated ones. The magnitude of msexual dimorphism was largere for relative limb length and head depth in the population with less vegetation than in those with more vegetation. Our data suggest that morphological differences between populations reflect local adaptations to habitat structure.
Molina, C. & Tamar, K. & González de la Vega, J.P. & Burriel-Carranza, B. & Fernandez Guiberteau, D. & Carranza, S. (2020) -
The genus Psammodromus (Lacertidae) comprises six species. Three of the species are morphologically similar, phylogenetically closely related, and are distributed in the Iberian Peninsula (besides P. algirus): P. occidentalis (Western Iberia), P. hispanicus (Central Spain), and P. edwarsianus (Eastern Spain). Previous studies have shown these three species to have allopatric distributions in Iberia, though there are still many areas such as Andalucia where it is unclear which species of Psammodromus occurs. In this study we present nine new records of Psammodromus from key places in southern Spain. Since the three Iberian species are difficult to differentiate by morphology, specimens were genetically identified using mitochondrial DNA data and compared to all six species of the genus. Here we present an updated distribution map of Psammodromus specimens identified with molecular methods, increasing the ranges of all three species. We also propose wider regions of potential sympatry between P. occidentalis and P. hispanicus, and P. edwarsianus and P. hispanicus than previously recorded.
Molina, M. & Marrero, A. & Carnero, A. & Perez, F. (1980) -
Molino, R. (1976) -
Molle, F. (1923) -
Molle, F. (1950) -
Molle, F. (1952) -
Molle, F. (1953) -
Molle, F. (1954) -
Möller, S. (1996) -
Möller, S. (1997) -
Mollov, I. (2009) -
The current paper reviews the current distribution of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus) in Turkey. A new locality at Güzelyalı Belediyesi Resort, south-west of Mudanya City in the country is reported.
Mollov, I. & Boyadzhiev, P. (2021) -
We present unpublished data on the diet of three lizards (Lacerta trilineata, Lacerta agilis and Podarcis tauricus) from the Lacertidae family, collected in 1974 in few localities in Southern Bulgaria. The analyzed data showed that the insects (Insecta) are the most numerous and the most frequently met food component and among the non-insect components the spiders and isopods are slightly predominating. The largest niche breadth was recorded in Podarcis tauricus (6.135), followed by Lacerta trilineata (5.263) and Lacerta agilis (4.132). All three studied lacertid species are classified as opportunistic general feeders (polyphages), which may show slight preference towards beetles, ants or spiders, depending on the occupied habitat or the season.
Mollov, I. & Boyadzhiev, P. & Donev, A. (2012) -
The seasonal variation of the trophic spectrum of two sympatric lizards (Lacerta viridis and Podarcis tauricus) is presented as well as the species’ trophic niche breadth and niche overlap. The material for the current study was collected in 1980-1981 in surroundings of Purvomay Town in South Bulgaria. The main food sources for both lizards are insects. For P. tauricus the predominating food type is Orthoptera (44.62%), followed by Coleoptera (14.36%) and Hemiptera (7.18%) and from the diet of L. viridis predominating are again Orthoptera (34.05%), followed by Coleoptera (12.97%) and Hymenoptera (9.73%). The possible ecological aspects of interspecific competition are discussed.
Mollov, I. & Petriova, S. (2013) -
A study on the trophic spectrum of three species of lacertid lizards (Lacerta agilis, Lacerta trilineata and Podarcis muralis) was carried out, based on 20 specimens collected in the period 1967-1973 in various localities in Bulgaria. The analyzed data showed that the insects (Insecta) are the most numerous and the most frequently met among the alimentary components of the total amount of food of the studied stomachs (except for Lacerta agilis, where spiders are slightly predominating). The non-insect components consisted spiders and isopods. The largest niche breadth was recorded in Lacerta trilineata (8.25), followed by Podarcis muralis (5.20) and Lacerta agilis (3.44). The niche overlap between the three species (pair-wise comparison) showed medium values and in our opinion there should not be any serious competition for food resources at the places with sympatric distribution.
Mollov, I.A. (2005) -
The current paper reviews the species composition and distribution of 2 amphibian (Bufo viridis, Hyla arborea) and 7 reptile species (Cyrtopodion kotschyi, Lacerta viridis, Lacerta trilineata, Podarcis taurica, Podarcis muralis, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Coronella austriaca) inhabiting three protected territories in the town of Plovdiv. Some aspects of the species ’ ecology are discussed in relation to the urban environment and the recorded amphibians and reptiles are categorized in ecological groups according to their level of synanthropy. Species ’ zoogeographic characteristics, level of endemism, conservation significance and the basic conservation threats and problems in the studied protected territories are also discussed.
Mollov, I.A. (2014) -
The current study determines the level of synanthropy of the amphibians and reptiles in the city of Plovdiv, based on Nuorteva’s Index of synanthropy, with slight modification, proposed here for the first time.
Mollov, I.A. & Kirov, K.H. & Petrova, S.T. & Georgiev, D.G. & Velcheva, I.G. (2013) -
Currently the problem of the effects of the road network and traffic on the amphibians and reptiles in Bulgaria is poorly studied. During the period March 2002 - March 2004 in the Buffer Zone of Biosphere Reserve `Srebarna` (NE Bulgaria) were built two anti-fire roads from the eastern and western side of the lake in area of grasslands of semi-steppe type, typical for north-eastern Bulgaria. The aim of the constructed roads is to provide access for fire vehicles to areas in and around the reserve. The current study aims to provide data on the impact of road traffic and the newly constructed road network and another previously existing road on the amphibians and reptiles inhabiting the buffer zone of the biosphere reserve `Srebarna`. For the entire period of study in the three studied road sections a total of 15 dead specimens of amphibians belonging to 4 species (Bombina bombina, Hyla arborea, Bufo bufo, Bufo viridis) and 70 dead specimens of reptiles belonging to 8 species (Emys orbicularis, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Lacerta viridis, Podarcis tauricus, Podarcis muralis, Natrix natrix, Coronella austriaca and Dolichophis caspius) were recorded. Several “hot spots”, where most cadavers were recorded are well described and possible conservation measures are discussed.
Mollov, I.A. & Natchev, N.D. & Koynova, T.V. & Kambourov, I.Z. & Rashkov, M.H. & Dimitrov, D.A. & Todorov, O.B. & Petrova, T.D. & Vladov, K.B. & Uzunov, S.G. (2022) -
The present study is a review of the herpetofauna of the sourtheastern part of the Black Sea Coast and Strandzha Nature Park. A total of thirty nine species were recorded for both regions (12 amphinian species, 27 - reptiles), of which two newt species (Lissotriton vulgaris, Triturus ivanbureshi), ten species of anurans (Bombina bombina, B. variegata, Bufo bufo, Bufotes viridis, Pelobates syriacus, Hyla orientalis, Rana dalmatina, Pelophylax ridibundus, P. cf. esculentus, P. bedriage), eleven species of lizards (Mediodactylus daniliewskii, Angius colchicus, Pseudopus apodus, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Lacerta agilis, L. trilineata, L. viridis, Podarcis muralis, P. tauricus, P. erhardii, Darevskia praticola), four species of native turtles and tortoises (Testudo graeca, T. hermanni, Emys orbicularis, Mauremys rivulata) and twelve species of snakes (Xerotyphlops vermicularis, Platyceps najadum, P. collaris, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Dolichophis caspius, Elaphe sauromates, Zamenis longissimus, Zamenis situla, Coronella austriaca, Malpolon insignitus, Vipera ammodytes). A comparison between the species compositon of the herpetofauna between South Black Sea Coast and Strandzha NP is made and analyzed.
Mollov, I.A. & Valkanova, M.V. (2009) -
The current study analyzes the structure and some features of two urban metapopulations of the Balkan Wall Lizard (Podarcis tauricus (Pallas, 1814)) from Nature Monument (NM) “Mladezhki halm” and Nature Monument “Halm na osvoboditelite” in the city of Plovdiv (South Bulgaria). In both study sites, the Balkan Wall lizard inhabits exclusively the interior of the hills and prefers mainly open areas with rare grass and shrub vegetation. The recorded dominant plant species are not autochthonous for the hills, but gradually displaced with many decorative species, used widely in the gardening and the city parks. The population abundance from both hills is relatively low, with higher values in NM “Mladezhki halm” and generally shows a decrease pattern for the two year period. In the hills of Plovdiv, the Balkan Wall lizard shows a bimodal diurnal and seasonal activity. Both metapopulations showed a sex ratio close to 1:1 with a slight superiority of the females (1:1.29), but with no statistically significant deviation. The age structure of both metapopulations is almost identical - the highest percentage takes the adults, followed by the subadults and juveniles, with no significant deviations from the normal ratio. The possible reasons for the contemporary distribution and population structure of the Balkan Wall lizard are discussed. Historic land use change and its effect on the populations are discussed as well. The main risks for this species in the city of Plovdiv are construction and forestation (destruction of open terrains). Nevertheless, the Balkan Wall lizard seems to have successfully overcome the risks of urbanization and its population seem stable and sustainable.
Molnár, O. & Bajer, K. & Mészáros, B. & Török, J. & Herczeg, G. (2013) -
During female mate choice, conspicuous male sexual signals are used to infer male quality and choose the best sire for the offspring. The theory of parasite-mediated sexual selection (Hamilton–Zuk hypothesis) presumes that parasite infection can influence the elaboration of sexual signals: resistant individuals can invest more energy into signal expression and thus advertise their individual quality through signal intensity. By preferring these males, females can provide resistance genes for their offspring. Previous research showed that nuptial throat colour of male European green lizard, Lacerta viridis, plays a role in both inter- and intrasexual selections as a condition-dependent multiple signalling system. The aim of this study was to test the predictions of the Hamilton–Zuk hypothesis on male European green lizards. By blood sampling 30 adult males during the reproductive season, we found members of the Haemogregarinidae family in all but one individual (prevalence = 96 %). The infection intensity showed strong negative correlation with the throat and belly colour brightness in line with the predictions of the Hamilton–Zuk hypothesis. In addition, we found other correlations between infection intensity and other fitness-related traits, suggesting that parasite load has a remarkable effect on individual fitness. This study shows that throat patch colour of the European green lizards not only is a multiple signalling system but also possibly acts as an honest sexual signal of health state in accordance with the Hamilton–Zuk hypothesis
Molnar, O. & Bajer, K. & Szövenyi, G. & Török, J. & Herczeg, G. (2016) -
The conspicuous colors found in many lizards transfer information about their owner’s characteristics that are relevant to mating and social systems. Female European Green Lizards (Lacerta viridis) have been shown to prefer males with high ultraviolet (UV) throat reflectance. Additionally, components of throat patch color (such as UV chroma and brightness) have been shown to be condition-dependent and to signal relative head size and health status. In this study, we investigated whether or not different components of male nuptial color and other relevant traits were associated with characteristics of male space use during the reproductive season at two different locations. In Site 1, lizard density was two times higher, territory size was one third as large, and spatial overlap between territories was about half as large as in Site 2. Males at Site 1 showed movement patterns consistent with a mix of territorial and floater individuals, with floaters exhibiting greater throat brightness. Those males at Site 2 moved in a less predictable manner within the study plot, irrespective of their nuptial color. Among territorial males, those of larger head size occupied larger territories but maintained lower brightness and blue chroma. Our results indicate that (1) not all males are territorial; (2) being territorial might have a cost expressed in duller nuptial color; (3) components of nuptial color can signal territory size; and (4) the information content of a multiple signaling system may vary between populations according to the mating system structure present.
Molnár, O. & Bajer, K. & Török, J. & Herczeg, G. (2012) -
Nuptial traits signalling individual quality are common in numerous animal taxa, and play a significant role in sexual selection. Detecting female mate choice based on visual cues is notoriously hard in lizards. Previously, we found that female European green lizards (Lacerta viridis) preferred to associate with males with high ultraviolet (UV) throat reflectance. Here, we investigated if different components of nuptial throat colour of male European green lizards were correlated toother fitness-related traits, and thus could signal male quality. We found that (1) high UV chroma correlates positively with directional asymmetry and shows a negative trend with body condition; (2) blue chroma is not related to any individual traits; and (3) total throat brightness correlates positively with body size and relative head size, and negatively with ectoparasite load. Our results suggest that having high throat UV reflectance is costly for male European green lizards, so probably only high-quality individuals can afford it, while total brightness of the throat colour signals age, relative head size and health status. Hence, throat colour in male European green lizards is a multiple honest signal.
Molnár, O.R. (2013) -
Molnar, O.R. & Bajer, K. (2007) -
Territorial behavior is present in many species of reptiles. In these cases, morphological, colour and other attributes of the individual may carry information about the size of the territory, and thereby affect mate-choice and reproductive success. We investigated the relationship between the size of territory and individual quality in the green lizard (Lacerta viridis). Recent observations showed strong territorial behaviour. Observations were made in the breeding seasons of 2005 and 2006. In addition to territory size, we also determined the number of females to be found on each male`s territory as an estimate of the number of the male`s potential reproductive partners. Ectoparasite load, colour and morphological characters did not correlate with the size of the territory. Parasite load showed negative correlation with the number of reproductive partners, while colour, morphological variables and territory size correlated positively with the number of females. In addition we found positive correlation between the robustness of males and their asymmetry, which may suggest that, contrary to many previous findings, asymmetry may be a neutral property in this case, or a cost of robustness. However, the intensity of blue colour on the throat showed positive correlation with the above-mentioned index for robustness. According to these results, though territory size cannot be predicted by morphological and colour characteristics, individual characteristics do predict the number of the male`s potential reproductive partners.
Monard A. (1937) -
Monard, A. (1930) -
Monard, A. (1940) -
Monard, A. (1949) -
Monard, A. (1951) -
Monasterio, C. & Beukema, W. (2014) -
Monasterio, C. & Salvador, A. & Díaz, J.A. (2010) -
Interspecific competition can limit the distribution of species along altitudinal gradients. It has been suggested that Western European rock lizards (genus Iberolacerta) are restricted to mountains due to the expansion of wall lizards (Podarcis), but there is no experimental evidence to corroborate this hypothesis. This study examines if interference competition with Podarcis muralis is a plausible explanation for the alpine confinement of Iberian rock lizards Iberolacerta cyreni. In a first experiment, we used an enclosure with four types of microhabitats to investigate whether adult rock and/or wall lizards shifted microhabitat or refuge preferences in the presence of the other species, and to detect aggressive interactions between them. In a second experiment, we staged heterospecific encounters between naïve, laboratory-born juveniles to identify behavioural differences and agonistic interactions. In the enclosure, neither rock nor wall lizards changed their microhabitat preferences in the presence of the other species. Nevertheless, rock lizards increased the diversity of microhabitats and nocturnal refuges used in the single species trials, which had twice the number of conspecifics. Aggressive interactions involved mainly large rock lizard males. Juveniles did not show any interspecific agonistic behaviour, but rock lizards spent more time basking and less time moving. Thus, we found no evidence of competition between both species in terms of habitat shifts or agonistic interactions, although intraspecific interactions seemed to explain the behaviour of adult rock lizards. We conclude that other factors are currently determining the alpine confinement of rock lizards.
West European Rock Lizards within the Iberolacerta group have a restricted distribution, with small, widely separated ranges in highland areas. The aim of this study was to identify possible habitat requirements (including habitat structure, type of vegetation, and refuge availability) and topographic factors (altitude and orientation) that may determine variations in the abundance of Iberolacerta cyreni on a 300-km2 mountain range and to discuss the implications of our results for the conservation of this endangered endemism. Both a stepwise regression and a best model selection approach showed that lizard abundance was positively correlated with only two predictors: altitude and cover of large rocks. Thus, the successful exploitation of alpine habitats by I. cyreni seemed to depend on the abundance of large rocks that may provide suitable basking substrates while minimizing predation risk. The positive association between altitude and lizard abundance predicts a fragmented distribution with isolated populations in the mountain peaks.
Monasterio, C. & Salvador, A. & Iraeta, P. & Díaz, J.A. (2009) -
Aim In an effort to disentangle the ecological processes that confine ectotherms to alpine environments, we studied the thermoregulatory and microhabitat selection behaviours of the rock lizard Iberolacerta cyreni, which is endemic to some mountains of central Spain, and of the wall lizard Podarcis muralis, which is a potential competitor of rock lizards. Location We chose three areas in the Sierra de Guadarrama (central Spain) that differed in their thermal quality [mean deviation of environmental operative temperatures from the lizards’ preferred thermal range (PTR)] and refuge availability: a pine forest (1770 m a.s.l.) in which P. muralis was the only species found, and two mixed shrub and rock sites (1770 and 1900 m a.s.l.) where both species were present. Methods In the field we collected data on refuge availability, sun exposure, body temperature (Tb) and operative temperature (Te). Thus, we estimated the thermal habitat quality of the areas sampled and the thermoregulation accuracy and effectiveness of both species. Results The pine forest had the lowest thermal quality and refuge availability. The lower-elevation shrub site offered the best thermal quality, but refuges were much scarcer than at the higher-elevation site. Both species thermoregulated accurately, because mean deviations of body temperature (Tb) from PTR were considerably smaller than those of Te. Podarcis muralis had higher Tb values than did I. cyreni, which had similar Tb values at both shrub sites, whereas P. muralis had lower Tb values at higher elevation. Overall, the thermoregulatory effectiveness (extent to which Tb values are closer to the PTR than are Te values) of both species was similar, but whereas I. cyreni thermoregulated more efficiently at higher elevation, the opposite was true for P. muralis. At the lower-elevation shrub site, I. cyreni remained closer to refuges than did P. muralis. Main conclusions Our results suggest that the pine forest belt might prevent the expansion of rock lizards towards lower elevations as a result of its low thermal quality and scarcity of refuges, that the thermoregulatory effectiveness of rock lizards in alpine environments depends more on refuge availability than on thermal habitat quality, and that competition with wall lizards is unlikely to explain either the distribution or the thermoregulatory effectiveness of rock lizards.
Monasterio, C. & Seixas, V.A. & Beukema, W. & Araújo, M.B. (2014) -
Monasterio, C. & Shoo, L.P. & Salvador, A. & Iraeta, P. & Diaz, J.A. (2013) -
We investigated whether the current distribution of Lacerta schreiberi is likely to be constrained by incubation conditions. We used an incubation experiment in the laboratory to examine the effects of temperature and moisture on lizard reproductive traits, in order to clarify the ecological processes that underlie the distribution patterns of this lizard and to build more reliable mechanistic models. We then investigated to what extent range limits of L. schreiberi coincided with those predicted from incubation experiments and actual temperature variation experienced in the field. This was done by intersecting documented presence localities of the species with interpolated spatial layers of soil temperature. Reproductive success (hatching success, morphological traits and growth rates) was strongly and negatively affected by high temperature. In contrast, incubation moisture only affected neonate size and its positive effects were only realized at moderate to low temperature. Documented temperature sensitivity suggests that successful embryonic development is likely to be compromised by available thermal conditions, and that this species is unable to colonize warmer areas such as those where L. schreiberi is absent beyond its distribution range limits. An important addition is that incubation moisture does not appear to influence overall embryonic development. We would expect contemporary climate warming to cause upward elevational shifts which may be more or less critical depending on the availability of preferred habitat.
Monasterio, C. & Shoo, L.P. & Salvador, A. & Siliceo, I. & Diaz, J.A. (2011) -
Local adaptation and range restrictions in alpine environments are central topics in biogeographic research with important implications for predicting impacts of global climate change on organisms. Temperature is strongly coupled to elevation and greatly affects life history traits of oviparous reptiles in mountain environments. Thus, species may encounter barriers for expanding their ranges if they are unable to adapt to the changing thermal conditions encountered along elevational gradients. We sought to determine whether thermal requirements for embryonic development provide a plausible explanation for elevational range limits of two species of lacertid lizards that have complementary elevational ranges in a Mediterranean mountain range (Psammodromus algirus is found at elevations below 1600 m and Iberolacerta cyreni is found at elevations above 1600 m). We combined experimental incubation of eggs in the laboratory with modelled estimates of nest temperature in the field. In both species, increasing temperature accelerated development and produced earlier hatching dates. The species associated with warmer environments (P. algirus) experienced an excessive hatching delay under the lowest incubation temperature. Moreover, newborns from eggs incubated at low temperatures showed poor body condition and very slow rates of postnatal growth. In contrast, eggs of the strictly alpine species I. cyreni exhibited shorter incubation periods than P. algirus that allowed hatching before the end of the active season even under low incubation temperatures. This was countered by lower reproductive success at higher temperatures, due to lower hatching rates and higher incidence of abnormal phenotypes. Elevational range limits of both species coincided well with threshold temperatures for deleterious effects on embryonic development. We suggest that incubation temperature is a major ecophysiological factor determining the elevational range limits of these oviparous lizards with predictable consequences for mountain distributions under future warmer climates.
Monasterio, C. & Verdu-Ricoy, J. & Salvador, A. & Diaz, J.A. (2016) -
Studies on range limits clarify the factors involved in the extent of species occurrence and shed light on the limits to adaptation. We studied the effects of elevational variation on the thermal dependence of fitness-related traits (incubation time, hatching rate, and survivorship, size, and condition of hatchlings) to assess the role of incubation requirements in distribution range limits of the alpine endemic Iberolacerta cyreni. We captured gravid females from two core (summit) and two marginal (low-elevation edge) populations, we incubated their eggs at three temperatures (22, 26, and 30 °C), and we monitored phenotypic effects. Viability of eggs and hatchlings decreased, independently of elevation, as incubation temperature increased. Hatching success and embryo survivorship were lower for clutches from low-elevation areas than for those from mountain summits, showing that lizards face difficulties thriving at the low-elevation edge of their range. Such difficulties were partly counterbalanced by faster postnatal growth at lower elevations, leading to increased adult size and higher fecundity. High incubation temperature had detrimental effects also at low-elevation areas, and no elevational variation in the thermal dependence of hatchling traits was detected. We suggest that temperature effects on egg development and the lack of selective pressures strong enough to foster local adaptation at marginal areas, combined with extended egg retention, may contribute to shape the range limits of these alpine oviparous reptiles.
Monkhbayar, K. (1981) -
Monkhbayar, K. (2018) -
New record of 3 species of amphibians (Hynobius keyserlingii, Bufo viridis, Rana chensinensis) and 9 species of reptiles (Teratoscincus przewalskii, Alsophylax pipiens, Gymnodactylus elongatus, Eremias argus, Eremias arguta potanini, Eremias vermiculata, Lacerta vivipara, Ery tataricus, Coluber spinalis) in Mongolia over the last 20 years have been reported.
Monney, J.-C. (2004) -
Monney, J.C. (2001) -
Montaña, E. de la & Rey Benayas, J.M. (2002) -
Conclusión Más allá de la explicación de la distribución de las áreas relevantes de biodiversidad, donde intervienen procesos ecológicos y evolutivos, creemos que estudios como éste pueden ayudar a la identificación de zonas del territorio especialmente valiosas para la conservación de la biodiversidad. En lugares donde no existe tiempo ni recursos económicos para llevar a cabo análisis exhaustivos de la biodiversidad, sugerimos que una estrategia basada en el criterio del índice combinado puede proveer la adecuada protección para muchos grupos de organismos. La coincidencia entre áreas relevantes de diversidad de anfibios y reptiles y la red de ENPs en España peninsular y Baleares deja unos huecos que deben ser corregidos. Los mapas producidos constituyen una herramienta valiosa para el establecimiento de nuevos espacios protegidos, prevención del impacto ambiental y restauración de ecosistemas.
Montandon, S.A. (2016) -
Au cours de l’évolution, les intéguments, principalement la peau qui protège l’animal du milieu extérieur, sont devenus de plus en plus complexes et ont engendré de nombreux caractères dérivés comme les écailles, les plumes, les poils, les glandes, les griffes ou les dents. Cependant, la peau est restée essentielle pour la coloration qui est importante pour les communications intra- ou inter-espèces et qui sont les cibles de la sélection naturelle et sexuelle. Les patterns de couleur sont liés aux comportements animaliers et sont hautement adaptatifs. Leur variation peut être importante entre des espèces apparentées ou à l’intérieur d’une même espèce, mais peut aussi présenter des convergences entre des groupes d’animaux non-apparentés. Ainsi, les patterns de couleur sont d’excellents modèles pour étudier la génétique et les fondements développementaux des caractères importants pour l’évolution des espèces. Chez les vertébrés, les connaissances en matière de formation des patterns de couleur ou de morphogenèse des appendices cutanés sont principalement fondées sur des espèces modèles comme la souris de laboratoire, le poulet ou le poisson zèbre. Si l’on désire aller plus loin dans l’étude de ces caractères évolutifs, il est nécessaire d’opter pour de nouveaux organismes modèles. Dans ce travail et dans le cadre de la biologie évolutive du développement (EvoDevo), nous nous basons sur de nouveaux animaux modèles, principalement des squamates, pour étudier certains caractères dérivés présents chez les amniotes. Au cours du développement embryonnaire, les patterns de couleur se forment grâce à l’interaction des cellules pigmentaires que sont les mélanocytes, les xanthophores et les iridophores. Bien que ces mécanismes soient peu compris, le clonage positionnel effectué chez les poissons a permis d’identifier certains gènes qui sont nécessaires à la formation de ces patrons de coloration. De plus, les simulations numériques, telles que celles générées sur base du modèle de réactiondiffusion proposé par Alan Turing, permettent de créer divers patterns qui pourraient aider à une meilleure compréhension des mécanismes de formation des patterns de couleur. Dans le chapitre 2, nous profitons de certaines ‘morphs’ de coloration présents chez le serpent des blés (Pantherophis guttatus) pour déterminer la position de quatre loci impliqués dans la formation du pattern de couleur. Nous avons identifié le gène CLCN2 comme étant responsable du défaut de pattern présent chez les serpents des blés ‘motley/striped’. En outre, nous avons établi que le phénotype ‘striped’ est dû à l’insertion d’un retrotransposon dans l’intron 4 qui génère un exon supplémentaire qui contient deux codons stop. Une mutation dans une séquence de régulation du!8 gène est probablement responsable du phénotype ‘motley’ qui est associée à une diminution significative de l’expression de CLCN2. Chez certaines espèces de vertébrés, le pattern de couleur n’est pas fixé au cours du développement embryonnaire, mais évolue après la naissance ou l’éclosion. Il s’agit de changement de couleur ontogénétique lié à des modifications morphologiques des chromatophores. Dans le chapitre 3, nous utilisons le lézard ocellé (Timon lepidus) et le gecko léopard (Eublepharis macularius) pour étudier ce phénomène. Grâce à des géométries quantitatives en 3 dimensions, des textures de couleur et des analyses statistiques, nous avons extrapolé des règles de probabilité qui déterminent le changement de couleur des écailles du lézard ocellé, du vert au noir et inversement, en fonction de la couleur des écailles voisines. Au moyen de simulations numériques, nous avons démontré que l’établissement d’un pattern contrasté vert et noir, de type labyrinthique, peut être décrit par un automate cellulaire, dynamique et quasi-hexagonal avec une discrétisation du temps et d’états (i.e. couleurs). De plus, nous avons montré que l’ajustement des paramètres représentant les interactions de courtes distances entre les cellules pigmentaires, basé sur l’observation de la morphologie de la peau, est suffisant pour recréer un comportement d’automate cellulaire à modèle de réaction-diffusion. Outre les patterns de couleur, certains reptiles possèdent, en plus des écailles, des appendices cutanés comme des cornes, des crêtes ou des excroissances de peau. Pour étudier la morphogenèse des excroissances de peau, nous utilisons l’emblématique lézard à collerette (Chlamydosaurus kingii). Au chapitre 4, nous avons montré que cette collerette érectile est générée pendant l’embryogenèse par une importante croissance de l’arc branchial 2 qui, contrairement à d’autres vertébrés, ne fusionne pas complètement au cou. La collerette est supportée par les os modifiés de l’hyoïde et par un tissu conjonctif dense, riche en collagène, appelé ‘Grey’s cartilage’. Le poil est l’appendice cutané caractérisant les mammifères. Cependant sa morphologie est très variable entre les taxa et il est parfois partiellement ou totalement remplacé par des piquants. Ces derniers sont apparus plusieurs fois au cours de l’évolution et forment une convergence évolutive qui pourrait être mieux comprise grâce à l’étude de la morphogenèse de ces appendices chez des espèces non-apparentées. Au chapitre 5, nous avons choisi comme modèle la souris épineuse (Acomys dimidiatus) et avons démontré que les poils drus présents sur la partie postérieure de leur dos sont des poils ‘awl’ modifiés qui émergent de larges placodes pendant l’embryogenèse. De plus, la papille dermique, qui est responsable de la croissance du poil, a une forme de croissant qui engendre une croissance anisotropique de la matrice postérieure ainsi que de la gaine racinaire antérieure. Cette croissance asymétrique va générer un poil concave avec un large sillon.
Montes Vadillo, E.M. (2021) -
Montes-Gavilán, P. & Sánchez-Vialas, A. & Calvo-Revuelta, M. (2018) -
Montes, E. & Feriche, M. & Ruiz-Sueiro, L. & Alaminos, E. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2020) -
Knowing the causes of biological invasion success can be relevant to combat future invasive processes. The recent invasion of the horseshoe whip snake Hemorrhois hippocrepis on the island of Ibiza provides the opportunity to compare natural history traits between invasive and source populations, and to unravel what makes this snake a successful invader that is threatening the only endemic vertebrate of the island, Podarcis pityusensis. This study compares the basic reproductive traits of mainland native and invasive populations of the snake. Our results revealed that invasive populations were characterized by female maturity at a smaller size, extended reproductive period, and much lower reproduction frequency compared to the native population. In contrast, some major reproductive traits-the abdominal fat body cycle, clutch size, hatchling body size, and hatchling body condition, did not differ between the two populations. Some of these results must reflect the environmental differences in the recently invaded island with respect to the source area, and overall plasticity of reproductive traits. Plasticity is evolutionarily interesting, and may aid the successful growth of this species in their invasiveness of Mediterranean islands like Ibiza. The most significant finding is that this expression of phenotypic plasticity occurred rapidly in this invasive population, within a period of 14 years maximum. Our results on the reproduction ecology of the invasive population were not conclusive regarding the factors determining the invasiveness of the snake and pointed to alternative causes.
Montes, E. & Gallo-Barneto, R. & Cabrera-Pérez, M.Á. (2021) -
Tras 12 años de invasión de la culebra de herradura (Hemorrhois hippocrepis) en la isla de Ibiza (Baleares), debido a su transporte en grandes olivos destinados a jardinería, en 2015 aparecieron dos ejemplares de esta especie en el norte de la isla de Gran Canaria, en las inmediaciones de un vivero en el barranco de Casa Ayala, límite entre los municipios de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria y Arucas. Aunque se trata de dos casos aislados, la introducción de esta especie podría tener consecuencias nefastas para su biodiversidad, que ya está amenazada por la invasión de la culebra real de California (Lampropeltis californiae).
Montes, E. & Kraus, F. & Chergui, B. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2021) -
The invasive snake Hemorrhois hippocrepis colonized the island of Ibiza (Balearic Islands) in 2003 as stowaways inside trunks of olive trees imported for gardening. It has quickly spread since 2010, posing a threat to the island’s only remaining endemic vertebrate, the Ibiza wall lizard Podarcis pityusensis. We map the yearly expansion rate of the snake and estimate via transect surveys how severely it affects the distribution and abundance of the endemic lizard. As well, we surveyed nine of 30 small lizard populations on islets surrounding Ibiza that have been isolated since the Last Glacial Maximum. Snakes had invaded 49% of Ibiza’s land area by 2018, and censuses show a critical contrast in lizard abundance between areas with and without snakes; almost all censuses in areas without snakes show lizard presence whereas nearly all censuses in areas with H. hippocrepis lack lizard sightings. Moreover, at least one subspecies previously thriving on one of the offshore islets has become extinct, and there have been several snakes recorded swimming between Ibiza and the surrounding islets. Therefore, lizard populations have been dramatically reduced or have vanished within the range of the snake, and our results quantitatively support upgrading this species’ threat level for extinction. This study can inform to programs to manage invasive snake populations and to conservation actions to recover the endemic lizard.
Montes, E. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Kraus, F. (2021) -
Fifteen years have elapsed since the arrival of the invasive snake Hemorrhois hippocrepis to the island of Ibiza (Balearic Islands, Spain). In that time, the only endemic vertebrate, the Ibiza Wall Lizard (Podarcis pityusensis), has disappeared across half of the island, a subspecies restricted to an offshore islet has vanished, and its extinction in its native range is likely to happen in the next several years if managers do not implement conservation measures with alacrity and decisiveness. In light of these fndings, our re-assessment of the IUCN extinction risk category for this lizard shows that its risk status has increased by two levels since its last assessment in 2008, from Near Threatened to Endangered. We also classify this snake as producing a Massive (MA) impact under the Environmental Impact Classifcation for Alien Taxa. Lastly, we suggest six management measures to prevent the extinction of the majority of genetic and taxonomic diversity of this lizard on Ibiza, Formentera, and the numerous surrounding islets.
Montes, E.M. & Estarellas, J. & Ayllón, E. & Carretero, M.A. & Feriche, M. & Hernández, P.L. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2015) -
El Consell Insular d’Eivissa va iniciar a 2014 un programa pilot per avaluar la distribució, l’estat de les poblacions, conèixer aspectes sobre la seva biologia i controlar les poblacions d’ofidis a Eivissa. Les dades preliminars indiquen que dos espècies introduïdes a l’illa d’Eivissa estan naturalitzades i que són abundants a l’entorn de Santa Eulària des Riu, Sant Llorenç de Balàfia i Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera; predomina Hemorrhois hippocrepis i és més escassa Rhinechis scalaris; tanmateix, no hi ha dades de Malpolon monspessulanus des de 2010. Les dos espècies presents en l’actualitat realitzen festejos i còpules al mateix període que a les regions on són natives. Almenys H. hippocrepis realitza postes amb ous viables. La presència de nadons de les dos espècies en dates d’eclosió per la Península Ibèrica pareix constatar la reproducció efectiva. Almenys en H. hippocrepis, s’ha constatat la predació sobre Podarcis pityusensis. Des de la seua introducció en 2003, H. hippocrepis ha mostrat una resposta funcional cap al gigantisme, amb exemplars que mostraven el 213% de la biomassa màxima registrada a la seua àrea nativa de la península Ibèrica. La utilització de trampes pareix efectiva, sempre que el seu número sigui elevat. L’elecció del tipus de trampa, esquer i lloc de col·locació condiciona els resultats obtinguts. Tanmateix, la continuïtat d’aquest estudi al llarg de l’any 2015 es fa imprescindible per augmentar la mida de mostra. El proper any es pretén la utilització de nous mètodes de captura i especialment, la col·locació d’un major número de trampes tipus caixa.
Montgelard, G. & Behrooz, R. & Arnal, V. & Asadi, A. & Geniez, P. & Kaboli, M. (2020) -
Revealing cryptic diversity constitutes the backbone of the future identification and description of a new lineage. For the genus Ophisops (Lacertidae), previous studies indicated that this genus is characterized by cryptic diversity as three clades were obtained for O. elegans and O. occidentalis that do not fit the classical systematics. Notably, we were interested to delineate the distribution range of the two clades of O. elegans described in Iran. We sequenced 65 individuals of Ophisops mainly from northwestern Iran for one mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 [COI]; 686 base pairs [bp]) and three nuclear genes (R35, MC1R, and PKM2; 1,857 bp). Phylogeographic analysis from mitochondrial and nuclear genes confirmed that Iranian samples belong to two major haplogroups (divergence of 13% for COI) that are also split into several subclades (divergence of 6%–10% for COI), revealing an unsuspected diversity within Iranian Ophisops. Divergence dating and biogeographi- cal analysis indicated that most clades arose through vicariance and dispersal pro- cesses during the Mio-Pliocene (between 7.2 and 1 Myr). However, a scenario of expansion/regression is also advocated for explaining the distribution and contact between three subclades in North Iran. We propose to recognize the three major clades as three potential candidate species. Moreover, we found some correspond- ence between several phylogenetic clades or subclades identified and six of the nine subspecies described for O. elegans. Both species and subspecies delimitation and identification would deserve additional investigations (including morphology, ecol- ogy, biogeography, and behavior) to fulfill the conditions of integrative taxonomy.
Monti, D.M. & Raia, P. & Vroonen, J. & Maselli, V. & Van Damme, R. & Fulgione, D. (2012) -
Unpredictable environmental conditions and highly fluctuating population densities are believed to have produced a ‘reversed island syndrome’ (RIS) in an insular population of the Wall lizard on Licosa Islet, Italy. Several of the physiological, behavioural, and life-history changes that constitute the RIS could result from positive selection on increased activity of melanocortins. For example, increased levels of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) should lead to increased investment in reproduction and increased immunocompetence in the island population. We tested the crucial assumption of this idea that plasma levels of α-MSH in Licosa Islet lizards are elevated compared to those of the mainland relatives. We also tested for differences in reproductive effort between populations, by measuring plasma levels of 5-α-dihydrotestosterone in males and clutch mass in females. In addition, we assessed ectoparasite load as an indicator for the lizards’ resistance to environmental stress. In agreement with the RIS, we found that insular lizards exhibit higher α-MSH levels, allocate more energy to reproduction, and have a reduced ectoparasite load compared to the nearest mainland population.
Montori, A. (1997) -
Montori, A. & Franch, M. & San Sebastian, O. (2012) -
In the municipality of Gava, there is currently a total of 25 species of amphibians and reptiles (one of the order Urodela, eight of the order Anura, two of the genus Chelonia, seven of the clade Sauria and seven of the suborder Serpentes). Two of the species – Trachemys scripta and Discoglossus pictus – were introduced in recent times. Worthy of note is the presence of the last-known population of the Western Spadefoot (Pelobates cultripes) in the municipalities of the deltaic plain, and the location of the last population of the Natterjack Toad (Bufo calamita) on the same plain. The location of the Discoglossus pictus in the municipality of Gava is indicative of the expansion of this species, which was introduced in 2004 into the municipality of el Prat de Llobregat.
Montori, A. & Llorente, G.A. (2005) -
Montori, A. & Llorente, G.A. & Carretero, M.A. & López-Jurado, L.F. (1996) -
The Hierro Giant Lizard (Gallotia simonyi) is themost threatened reptilian in Europe. In the present paper we present the results obtained during the first year of action within the recovery plan of the species designed and advanced by the Spanish Herpetological Society (AHE) and the Regional Government of the Canary Islands. Believed to be extinctand rediscoveredin 1975, the Hierro Giant Lizard has at present only a small population of scarcely 150 specimens livingin the area called Fugade Gorreta in the island of EI Hierro ( Canary Islands). To avoid its extinction, reproduction of captive specimens has been achieved, and the basic studies have been performed to contemplate its reintroduction in other suitable areas. At present a number of animals born in captivity is available (130 specimens), from which new population groups maybe established to allow the species to recolonize the areas it formerly occupied in the island.
Montori, A. & Llorente, G.A. & Santos, X. & Richter-Boix, A. & Garriqa, N. (2003) -
Monzo Gimenez, J.C. (2001) -
Monzón Mayor, M. & Yanes, C. & James, J.L. & Sturrock, R.R. (1990) -
Monzon-Mayor, M. & Yanes, C. & Ghandour, M.S. & Barry, J. de & Gombos, G. (1990) -
The distribution of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)- and vimentin-containing cells was studied by immunohistochemistry in the midbrain of the lizard Gallotia galloti. At embryonic stage 32 (E32), vimentin immunoreactivity appeared first in cell bodies located in the ventricular walls, in radial fibers, and subpial end-feet and increased in these structures until E34E35. Faint GFAP immunoreactivity gradually appeared in the same structures between E34 and E37, and this increased until adulthood, whereas vimentin immunoreactivity decreased after E35, becoming limited to a few end-feet and fibers in the adult, mainly in the tegmentum. Thus, in developing Gallotia midbrain a shift from vimentin-containing to GFAP-containing intermediate filaments begins around E36 or E37. At E40, in addition to the cell bodies in the ependymal area, dispersed GFAP-positive cells, possibly immature astrocytes appeared. These cells showed the same shift. In the adult lizard, GFAP-positive radial glia are still present and coexist with GFAP-positive astrocytes, which are prefentially located in the marginal optic tract and the oculomotor nuclei, but are absent in the fasciculus longitudinalis medialis. Optic tectum, pretectum, tegmentum, and isthmic nuclei are the areas richest in GFAP-positive radial fibers: these were much less abundant in the deep mesencephalic nuclei. Thus, in this lizard, GFAP-positive astrocytes display a clear cut regional distribution: they are present in mesencephalon, whereas they are absent in telencephalon.
Monzon-Mayor, M. & Yanes, C. & Tholey, G. & Barry, J. de & Bombos, G. (1990) -
The immunohistochemical localization of glutamine synthetase, an astrocyte marker in mammals, was determined in the telencephalon and mesencephalon of the lizard Gallotia galloti during development by using an antiserum raised against chicken brain glutamine synthetase. Ependymal glial cells and their radial processes were glutamine synthetase immunoreactive, and they were present also in the adult. Immunoreactivity was also detected in two populations of scattered cell bodies, each preferentially localized in different zones: star-shaped cells morphologically similar to mammalian astrocytes, and ovoid or pear-shaped cell bodies, the processes of which were aligned with radial fibers and formed perivascular end-feet. Both populations displayed ultrastructural characteristics of astrocytes even though a comparison with our previous results (Monzon-Mayoret al., 1989; Yanes et al., 1989) indicated that many of these cells did not react with antibodies directed against the astrocyte-specificglial fibrillary acidic protein. During ontogeny, glutamine synthetase immunoreactivity appeared in radial glial processes and in ependymal glial cells of midbrain at embryonic stage 35 (E35) and of telencephalon at E37; in both regions, immunoreactivity in the radial glia increased until hatching and then decreased until adulthood, but it did not disappear. Labelled scattered cells became progressively more numerous and more immunoreactive. A comparative analysis of the distribution of these cells at different ages tends to suggest that some of the “ovoid astrocytes originate in, and migrate out from, the proliferative zone of the different sulci, whereas the star-shaped cells appear directly in situ, probably because they begin to express glutamine synthetase after they have reached their final location.
Moorleghem, C. van & Bauwens, D. & Claus, K. & Martin, J. & Damme, R. van (2020) -
In many animals, chemosensation acts as a first line of defence against snake predators. However, in spite of their obvious importance, the chemical nature of cues used by prey to detect snakes remains to be discovered. Here, we analyse which neutral lipids, extracted with n-hexane, are present in the skin of the European adder (Vipera berus) using Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry. The analyses revealed that the washes held a complex cocktail of chemical compounds, with a total of 165 different molecules, mostly steroids (82% of the total ion current) and alkanes (13%), and smaller amounts of carboxylic acids, wax esters, ketones, amides and alcohols. Using bio-assays in which we confronted individuals of a prey species (the European common lizard, Zootoca vivipara) with these washes, we were able to confirm that the kairomones can be extracted using n-hexane. In fact, lizards did not respond to chemical cues still present in adder skin after washing, indicating that the kairomones are indeed strongly n-hexane soluble. Consequently, we have set a next step in deciphering the chemical nature of the predator-prey interaction between the European adder and the European common lizard. We hope our results facilitate further investigation into the chemical ecology of snakes and their prey.
Moorleghem, C. van & Damme, R. van (2020) -
Lacertid lizards use chemical cues emitted by saurophagous snakes to evade predation. Whether these lizards can detect and respond to the chemical cues of predatory mammals has not been studied. As many mammals carry distinct body odours and/or use chemical cues for intraspecific communication, lizards can be expected to use these chemicals as early warning cues. To test this idea, we observed the behaviour of Asian grass lizards (Takydromus sexlineatus) that had been transferred to an unfamiliar test arena containing one of four scent treatments. No particular scent was applied to the arena in the control situation. Diluted aftershave served as a pungency control. In the snake treatment, scent of the Oriental whip snake (Ahaetulla prasina) was applied. We included this treatment to learn how Asian grass lizards react to predator chemical cues. Finally, in the mongoose treatment, the lizards were confronted with scent cues of several small Indian mongooses (Herpestes auropunctatus). Snake scent elicited foot shakes, startles and tail vibrations. These are behaviours that in lacertid lizards are associated with stressful situations such as predatory encounters. Surprisingly, lizards confronted with mongoose scent exhibited none of these stress‐indicating behaviours. In fact, their behaviour did not differ from that of lizards subjected to an odourless control treatment. These results raise concern. Mongooses are rapidly invading ecosystems worldwide. If lizards that have co‐evolved with mongooses are unable to detect these predators’ presence through chemical cues, it seems highly unlikely that evolutionary naïve lizards will develop this ability rapidly.
Moorleghem, C. van & Goethem, S. van & Huyghe, K. & Damme, R. van (2018) -
Moorleghem, C. van & Huyghe, K. & Damme, R. van (2016) -
Today, many ecosystems are pressurized by the introduction of new predator species. Prey populations that fail to adapt and overcome their naïveté towards these predators may go extinct. The first step in overcoming naïveté is to develop the ability to recognize the predator as a threat. To predict the effect of predator introduction on prey populations, it is therefore important to understand how the sensory systems of local populations are used to recognize risky situations, such as predator presence. In this study, we tested the ability of the Dalmatian wall lizard Podarcis melisellensis (Braun, 1877) to detect and recognize both native and introduced predators as a threat. The focus was on the chemical senses of P. melisellensis as the genus Podarcis is assumed to use these for predator detection. We compared the lizards’ behavioural responses to chemicals obtained from predator species that ranged from specialist saurophagous to generalists and opportunists. The non-native predators were introduced either 2000 years ago or as recent as 80 years ago. At least some island populations do not have the ability to recognize predators through the chemical modality. These lizards are, therefore, deprived of a sense that enables them to detect a threat when the predator is beyond hearing or viewing distance. This could imply vulnerability towards potential invasive predator species.
Moorleghem, C. van & Huyghe, K. & Damme, R. van (2020) -
Newly introduced predators constitute a major threat to prey populations worldwide. Insular prey animals in particular often do not succeed in overcoming their naivety towards alien predators, making them specifically vulnerable. Why this is the case remains incompletely understood. Here, we investigate how the ability to detect and respond to predator chemical cues varies among populations of the Dalmatian wall lizard, Podarcis melisellensis. Lizards were sampled from five locations in south-eastern Croatia (one mainland location and four islands) that varied in the composition of their predator community. We observed the lizards’ behaviour in response to chemical cues of native saurophagous snakes (the Balkan whip snake, Hierophis gemonensis, and eastern Montpellier snake, Malpolon insignitus) and an introduced mammalian predator (the small Indian mongoose, Herpestes auropunctatus – a species held responsible for the loss of numerous insular reptile populations worldwide). Mainland lizards showed elevated tongue-flick rates (indicative of scent detection) as well as behaviours associated with distress in response to scents of both native and introduced predators. In sharp contrast, island lizards did not alter their behaviour when confronted with any of the predator cues. Alarmingly, even lizards from islands with native predators (both snakes and mammals) and from an island on which mongooses were introduced during the 1920s were non-responsive. This suggests that insular populations are chemosensorily deprived. As failure at the predator-detection level is often seen as the most damaging form of naivety, these results provide further insight into the mechanisms that render insular-living animals vulnerable to invasive species.
Moors, C. & Crombaghs, B. (2001) -
Moors, C. & Frissen, D. (2004) -
During the last 25 years, numerous volunteers and organisations have contributed to research into and conservation of the Common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) at the Hoge Fronten area, the remnants of disused fortifications o n the outskirts of the town of Maastricht. The recent history of the area is briefly described, featuring its designation as a protected wildlife monument as the most important achievement. Monitoring of the population has revealed a spectacular growth in the number of individuals. Although the population now has a more natural and healthy age structure, reproduction is closely linked to weather circumstances. Nevertheless, the future for this population looks bright, provided restoration of the fortifications is effected in a lizard-friendly way. Not only will the present management approach need to be continued, but the further collaboration of many people and organisations will be required to preserve and develop the population in the future.
Moosleitner, H. (1984) -
Mooyenkind, H. & Esterik, N. (1981) -
During the period July 8th to August7th the authors observed several species of amphibians and reptiles in the Rhône-valley in Switzerland. Notes are given on their habitat and on problems concerning determination of some species; remarks are made on the status oft he amphibians and reptiles in Switzerland.
Moravec, F. (2010) -
A new nematode species, Rhabdias lacertae n. sp. (Rhabdiasidae), is described from the body-cavity of the common lizard Lacerta vivipara Jacquin (Lacertidae) from the Ridge of Malá Fatra (Sokolie Hill), north-western Slovakia. The new species differs from its congeners mainly in possessing 3 min cuticular spikes at the tail tip and some other features. This is the first species of Rhabdias Stiles & Hassall, 1905 described from lizards in Europe and the first species of this genus parasitising hosts belonging to the Lacertidae.
Moravec, J. (1993) -
Moravec, J. (1994) -
Moravec, J. (1995) -
Through the kindness of Dr. O. Kodym, the National Museum (Nat. Hist.), Prague has obtained a small collection of reptiles from Libya. The collection comprises a total of 15 specimens of eleven reptile species collected in the surroundings of the town of Agedabia (30`45` N, 20`18` E ; SW Cyrenaica). Besides rather common North African reptile species, the collection also includes one specimen of a snake of genus Lytorhynchus. The specimen corresponds to the taxon Lytorhynchus kennedyi K. SCHMIDT, 1939, reported so far only from the Near East. This paper presents a brief description of this specimen and a list of the other reptile species contained in the collection. The nomenclaturel status of L. kennedyi is discussed.
Moravec, J. (1998) -
New data on the distribution and taxonomy of four Syrian reptile species are presented. Ophisops elegans blanfordi and Eirenis barani are recorded from Syria for the first time. The presence of Mabuya aurata septemtaeniata in Syria is confirmed and the possible occurrence of Ophisops elegans centralanatoliae in Syria is discussed. The examination of the subspecific identity of the Syrian populations of Cyrtopodion kotschyi has shown that the diagnostic characters available for C. k. syriacus and C. k. orientalis do not provide a sufficient key for distinguishing between these two Levantine subspecies.
Moravec, J. (2001) -
Moravec, J. (2004) -
A study of morphometrical and meristic characters of 82 museum specimens of Mesalina brevirostris from Syria, Jordan and Iraq revealed the existence of conspicuous morphological variation of this species in Syria. Discriminant analysis carried out in six pholidotic characters confirmed an assortment of the examined material into three forms: (1) “Lowland form” distributed mainly in lower altitudes (up to 500-600 m) of the “Desert” and “Desert-steppe” regions of central and eastern Syria and probably also in higher altitudes of the same climatic zone in south- western Syria. (2) “Western form”, occurring at least in higher altitudes (600-800 m) of the western part of the country at the frontier between “Desert- steppe” and “West-Syrian steppe” climatic regions. (3) “J. Arab form”- most divergent morphotype inhabiting eastern slopes of the Jabal al Arab mountains (alt. ca. 1000 m) at south- western frontier of “Desert-steppe” climatic region. A possible effect of climatic factors on the distribution of the individual Syrian forms of M. brevirostis is discussed.
Moravec, J. (2015) -
Moravec, J. & Baha El Din, S. & Seligmann, H. & Sivan, N. & Werner, Y.L. (1999) -
Examination of 385 specimens of the Acanthodactylus pardalis group from eastern Libya, Egypt and Israel confirmed the occurrence of two allopatric species in this area: Acan-thodactylus pardalis (Lichtenstein, 1823) distributed in Egypt and eastern Libya and a hitherto undescribed species endemic to the Negev (Israel). The species differ most markedly in body size, hemipenial structure, colouration and details of sexual dichromatism. Other significant dif-ferences involve scalation and biometrics. A simple method for artefact-free use of discriminant analysis in multivariate classification is presented. Redescription of A. pardalis (Lichtenstein, 1823), description of a new species Acanthodactylus beershebensis sp.n. and corrected geo-graphical ranges of the two species are provided. Both species, each endemic to a small area, appear to be markedly endangered by habitat destruction.
Moravec, J. & Benes, B. (2000) -
Moravec, J. & Kulková, H. (2011) -
Moraza, M.L. & Irwin, N.R. & Godinho, R. & Baird, S.J.E. & Gouy de Bellocq, J. (2009) -
A new species, Ophionyssus schreibericolus Moraza sp. nov. is described, based on adult females, males and protonymphal instars. Ophionyssus schreibericolus parasitizes Lacerta schreiberi, a lizard endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, and known to have persisted in refugial populations throughout the Pleistocene. A key to adult females, males and protonymphs of the genus Ophionyssus is presented. Ophionyssus viperae Miron & Ivan 2003 is synonymised with O. natricis (new synonymy).
Moreira, P. & Almeida, A. & Brito e Abreu, F. & Paulo, O. & Rosa, H. & Crespo, E.G. (2001) -
Moreira, P.L. (1996) -
Moreira, P.L. (2002) -
Moreira, P.L. & Almeida, A.P. & Rosa, H.D. & Paulo, O.S. & Crespo, E.G. (1999) -
Moreira, P.L. & Barata, M. (2005) -
Infertile and non-viable fertile eggs within a reptile clutch may decrease the incubation success of the remaining eggs, as (1) opportunistic pathogens may use the nutrient resources provided by dead eggs to colonize the clutch and spread to and kill viable eggs; and (2) odours released by spoilt eggs may attract predators to the clutch. These hypotheses were tested on the Iberian rock lizard (Lacerta monticola) by comparing the incubation success of fertile eggs between clutches composed solely of fertile eggs and clutches containing a small number of dead eggs. In a laboratory experiment, fungi (Fusarium sp. and Gliocladium sp.) colonized both infertile eggs and fertile eggs that died during incubation and thereafter spread to and killed adjacent eggs. In addition, offspring hatched earlier from fungal infected eggs than from non-infected eggs. The former were smaller and lighter than the latter, as they hatched before using the full egg yolk content. Results from a field experiment did not corroborate the fungal pathogenic effects observed in the laboratory nor did they confirm that clutches containing dead eggs suffer higher predation. Despite the inconclusive results regarding the role of fungal pathogens in nature, the present study indicates that this subject deserves further investigation in reptiles.
Moreira, P.L. & Birkhead, T.R. (2004) -
Male Iberian rock lizards (Lacerta monticola) produce copulatory plugs that adhere firmly inside the female cloaca and occlude both oviducts. These plugs do not prevent rival male insemination, as they neither reduce female attractiveness or receptivity to rival males nor do they function as “chastity belts”. Prior to copulation, males bite various regions of the female body, including the cloacal region. A previous plug in the female cloaca is expelled only after rival male intromission. We hypothesized that: (1) such male pre-copulatory behaviours function to loosen plug adherence to the female cloaca, thereby facilitating intromission, and that (2) the hemipenis plays a role in displacing a previous plug prior to the delivery of a new plug. Neither of these hypotheses was supported. Instead, our results indicate that rival males can intromit the hemipenis past a previous plug in the female cloaca and deliver their own plug underneath it. Consequently, previous plugs are pushed away from the oviductal openings and even dislodged from the female cloaca. Copulation duration was determined both by the time used by males to deliver a plug and by the fact that males prolonged copulation beyond plug delivery. There seemed to be sexual conflict over prolonged copulation, which was resolved by the male/female headlength ratio. The adaptive value of Iberian rock lizard copulatory plugs and prolonged copulation in Iberian rock lizards is discussed in the context of sperm competition.
1. Iberian Rock Lizard ( Lacerta monticola , Boulenger 1905) males produce copulatory plugs that harden and adhere firmly inside the female cloaca immediately after copu- lation and occlude both oviductal openings. 2. To determine whether plugs reduce the chance of females being inseminated by rival males, two hypotheses were tested: (i) that plugs reduce female attractiveness and/or receptivity to rival males; and (ii) that plugs function as ‘chastity belts’. 3. There was no evidence to support either hypothesis. Neither male initiation of copulations and female termination of male copulation attempts, nor male insemina- tion success differed significantly between trials in which males were presented with females without a plug and with females with a plug deposited by a different male 1, 3 and 6 or more hours earlier, nor between females without and with a plug. 4. Several hypotheses for the function of Iberian Rock Lizard plugs are discussed. Since rival males were frequently able to displace a plug in the female cloaca, our results are consistent with a ‘sperm protection’ function of male postcopulatory mate guarding in squamate reptiles, but this remains to be tested.
Moreira, P.L. & Lopez, P. & Martin, J. (2006) -
Socially dominant males often signal their status to rival males and/or females. We tested the hypotheses that Lacerta monticola femoral gland secretions and copulatory plugs convey chemical information about male identity and dominance status. We estimated male dominance status by staging male-male agonistic encounters in a neutral arena. We then conducted two experiments to compare male tongue-flick behavior toward chemical stimuli consisting of cotton swabs bearing (1) deionized water (control), the lizard`s own femoral secretions, and the femoral secretions of another male and (2) phosphate-buffered saline solution (control), the lizard`s own plug products, and the plug products of another male. Results indicate that males discriminated their own femoral secretions and plugs from those of other males. They also discriminated morphological attributes of other males that were associated with dominance status based on chemical cues arising from femoral secretions and discriminated the dominance status of other males based on chemical cues arising from the plugs. Femoral secretions that convey information about male identity and dominance status may be hypothesized to function in the establishment of L. monticola dominance hierarchies through scent-marking of territories. We suggest that copulatory plugs and femoral secretions may allow males to scent-mark the female body and postulate that this behavior may influence male and female reproductive decisions under selective pressures of sperm competition.
Moreira, P.L. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2008) -
Faeces play a role in intraspecific chemical communication in many vertebrates, including lizards. Here, we hypothesised that juvenile Iberian rock lizards (Lacerta (=Iberolacerta) monticola) use substrate-borne conspecific faecal chemicals to assess the social environment and base their spatial decisions. To test this hypothesis, we prepared chemical stimuli by dissolving faeces in an organic solvent (dichloromethane, DCM) and conducted chemosensory trials where we quantified latency to the first tongue flick (TF) and TF rates when young captive-borne juveniles were placed in an arena compartment whose substrate was labelled by (1) a control (DCM), (2) their own faecal chemicals, (3) faecal chemicals of another juvenile, (4) faecal chemicals of an adult female or (5) faecal chemicals of an adult male. Following TF observations, we removed a partition that separated the labelled compartment from a chemically unlabelled one, and recorded for 5 min when juveniles first crossed to the unlabelled compartment and total time spent in the labelled compartment. Each juvenile was tested with all stimuli in a randomised order. In addition, juveniles belonged to different families and were unrelated to and unfamiliar with faeces donors. Taken together, TF and spatial responses toward stimuli indicate that juveniles discriminated between faecal chemicals of conspecific juveniles, adult females and males, and that they avoided remaining in substrates labelled by adult male faecal chemicals. We suggest that juveniles assess the social environment based on conspecific faecal chemicals thus avoiding aggression and cannibalistic risks undertaken from encounters with adult males.
Moreira, P.L. & Nunes, V.L. & Martín, J. & Paulo, O.S. (2007) -
Sperm competition selects for opposing male defensive and offensive reproductive traits, and its outcome may be determined by the effectiveness to which one trait has evolved to out-compete the other. We tested the effectiveness of a first male plug physical interference with a second male insemination (defence) vs the effectiveness of plug and associated sperm displacement by a second male (offence) on the outcome of sperm competition in Iberian rock lizards. We conducted a double mating experiment where we compared the proportion of eggs per clutch fertilised by the same second males (against the same first males) when they copulated with females 30 min (first male plug adhered firmly inside the female cloaca) and 4 h (first male plug loosely adhered or shed from the female cloaca) after first males. We found that second males fertilised the majority of the eggs per clutch in the 30-min treatment, whereas fertilisations were equally shared between the two males in the 4-h treatment. These results show that plugs have little defensive effectiveness, and thus, do not assure high first male fertilisation success. Instead, sperm displacement appears to be associated with plug displacement. That is, because sperm embedded in first male plugs, and displaced from competition for fertilisations by second males, is expected to increase in number with decreasing time allowed for female sperm transport, second males thus enjoy higher fertilisation success. This study shows that offensive plug displacement out-competes plug defensive role in Iberian rock lizards. Moreover, it reveals sperm displacement as a novel sperm competition mechanism in reptiles.
Moreira, P.L. & Paulo, O.S. (2008) -
Morel, F. & Courty, Y. & Dufaure, J.-P. (1988) -
The epididymis of the viviparous lizard secretes large amounts of proteins among which L-proteins are prominent components. It undergoes great morphological and physiological modifications during its testosterone-controlled annual cycle. The effects of testosterone on L-proteins synthesis and L-mRNA concentrations were studied in cultures of organs regressed after castration. Of three tested serum supplements (2% Ultroser, 10% fetal calf serum, 10% calf serum) calf serum was shown to be essential for androgen-specific control of L-proteins synthesis. The duration of castration governed the in-vitro response to testosterone principally at the level of L-proteins synthesis. The onset of synthesis was delayed in 2-month post-castration explants, compared with l-month post-castration explants, and was dissociated from appearance of the mRNA. This suggests that there is translational control of secretory proteins in the regressed epididymis. Conversely, the response to testosterone at the mRNA level was delayed in explants from animals castrated during a non-secretory state, compared with explants from animals castrated at the onset of secretion. These results, together with other data, suggest that expression of the L-proteins is under multifactorial control and that the influence of multiple controlling elements varies with the stage of differentiation.
Morel, L. & Dufaure, J.P. & Depeiges, A. (2000) -
The epididymal epithelial cells of the lizard (Lacerta vivipara) produce large amounts of specific proteins under androgenic control. Amongst them, a major protein family that binds to the head of spermatozoa, the lizard epididymal secretory protein (LESP) family, has been identified as a member of the lipocalin superfamily. LESPs are composed of 9 elements that present an identical molecular mass of 18 000 Da but have a large range of pHi (3.5 to 9). The structural analysis of this protein family was performed by the determination and comparison of both the aminoterminal sequence of each element and the complete sequence of three specific LESP cDNA clones. When not identical, LESP elements present randomly dispatched nucleotide and amino acid substitutions, indicating the existence of at least five LESP mRNA populations encoded by a multigenic family. We determined that these LESP genes are differentially expressed during the annual epididymal cycle.
Morelet, J. (1860) -
Moreno-Rueda, G. & González-Granda, L.G. & Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Melero, E. (2019) -
Predation usually selects for visual crypsis, the colour matching between an animal and its background. Geographic co-variation between animal and background colourations is well known, but how crypsis varies along elevational gradients remains unknown. We predict that dorsal colouration in the lizard Psammodromus algirus should covary with the colour of bare soil—where this lizard is mainly found—along a 2200 m elevational gradient in Sierra Nevada (SE Spain). Moreover, we predict that crypsis should decrease with elevation for two reasons: (1) Predation pressure typically decreases with elevation, and (2) at high elevation, dorsal colouration is under conflicting selection for both crypsis and thermoregulation. By means of standardised photographies of the substratum and colourimetric measurements of lizard dorsal skin, we tested the colour matching between lizard dorsum and background. We found that, along the gradient, lizard dorsal colouration covaried with the colouration of bare soil, but not with other background elements where the lizard is rarely detected. Moreover, supporting our prediction, the degree of crypsis against bare soil decreased with elevation. Hence, our findings suggest local adaptation for crypsis in this lizard along an elevational gradient, but this local adaptation would be hindered at high elevations.
Moreno-Rueda, G. & Melero, E. & Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Álvarez-Benito, I. (2017) -
Mountains imply enormous environmental variation, with alpine habitats entailing harsh environments, especially for ectotherms such as lizards. This environmental variability also may imply variation in prey availability. However, little is known about how lizard trophic ecology varies with elevation. In this study, we analyze diet, prey availability, prey selection, and trophic niche width in the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus along a 2,200-m elevational gradient in the Sierra Nevada (SE Spain). The analysis of fecal samples has shown that Orthoptera, Formicidae, Hemiptera, Coleoptera, and Araneae are the main prey, although, according to their abundance in pitfall traps, Formicidae and Coleoptera are rejected by the lizard whereas Orthoptera, Hemiptera, and Araneae are preferred. Prey abundance and diversity increase with elevation and diet subtly varies along with the elevational gradient. The consumption of Coleoptera increases with elevation probably as a consequence of the lizard foraging more in open areas while basking. The electivity for Araneae increases with elevation. Araneae are rejected in the lowlands—where they are relatively abundant—whereas, at high elevation, this lizard positively selects them, despite they being less abundant. The lizard trophic niche width expands with elevation due to concomitant greater prey diversity and hence this lizard feeds on more prey types in highlands. Although no sex difference in diet has been found, the trophic niche is broader in females than males. As a whole, alpine lizards show a trophic niche similar to that found at lower elevations, suggesting that P. algirus is well adapted to the harsh environment found in alpine areas.
Moreno-Rueda, G. & Melero, E. & Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Comas, M. (2019) -
Im mediterranen Raum sind Wald- und Buschbrände wesentliche Gestaltungselemente von Landschaften, natürlichen Abfolgen von Biozönosen und der Dynamik von arten und lebensgemeinschaften. doch haben in den letzten Jahren Zahl und ausmaß solcher Brände derart zugenommen, daß der Naturschutz besorgt auf diese Entwicklung reagiert. noch wird verbreitet angenommen, daß Reptilien von Buschbränden meist nur wenig beeinträchtigt werden oder sogar profitieren. in der vorliegenden Arbeit führten die Autoren eine vorher-nachher-Vergleichsuntersuchung durch, um die Auswirkung eines kleinräumigen Buschfeuers (16 ha) auf die Abundanz der Eidechse Psammodromus algirus (Linnaeus, 1758) zu untersuchen. die Ergebnisse legen nahe, daß die lokal be troffene Population aufgrund des Brandes zusammenbrach, obwohl Jungtiere das Brandgebiet aus der Nachbarschaft rasch wieder besiedelten. ein knappes Jahr nach dem Brand wurde erstmalig wieder ein adulter P. algirus im Brandgebiet festgestellt. Die vorliegende Untersuchung zeigt, daß selbst ein sehr kleinräumiges Buschfeuer negative Auswirkungen auf mediterrane Eidechsen haben kann.
Moreno-Rueda, G. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Pizarro, M. & Montori, A. (2012) -
It is predicted that climate change will drive extinctions of some reptiles and that the number of these extinctions will depend on whether reptiles are able to change their distribution. Whether the latitudinal distribution of reptiles may change in response to increases in temperature is unknown. We used data on reptile distributions collected during the 20th century to analyze whether changes in the distributions of reptiles in Spain are associated with increases in temperature. We controlled for biases in sampling effort and found a mean, statistically significant, northward shift of the northern extent of reptile distributions of about 15.2 km from 1940–1975 to 1991–2005. The southern extent of the distributions did not change significantly. Thus, our results suggest that the latitudinal distributions of reptiles may be changing in response to climate change.
Moreno, J.M. (1992) -
Moreno, J.S. & Jimenez Rodriguez, J.J. & Garcia-Cardenete, L. (2013) -
Morgue, M. (1924) -
Mori, A. (1990) -
Behavioral responses of the Japanese lacertid lizard,Takydromus tachydromoides, to its natural predator, the Japanese striped snake,Elaphe quadrivirgata, were examined under laboratory conditions.T. tachydromoides often thrashed its tail rapidly from side to side for short intervals (less than 0.5 s), usually just before fleeing away from an approaching snake. This tail vibration behavior appears to distract the snake away from the vulnerabl parts of the body to the tail, as tail vibration occurred more frequently when the head of the snake was closer to the lizard`s head than its tail. Distraction of snake attack by this action is suggested to be an antipredator tactic, because it was demonstrated that the vibration increased the chance of escape.
Mori, A. (1991) -
Frequencies of movement, as an index of propensity for immobility, of Takydromus tachydromoides were measured in the encounters with a potential predator Elaphe quadrivirgata (Session A) or a sympatric non-predator Eumeces latiscutatus (Session B), or in the absence of other animals (Session C). Frequency of movement in Session A was significantly lower than in Sessions B and C. In Session B, T. tachydromoides moved significantly less frequently during the first 10min than during the latter 10min. The lizards previously exposed to E. quadrivirgata reduced their movements in the subsequent Session B with significantly high frequency when compared with animals without such experience. It is suggested that immobility of T. tachydromoides is an adaptive antipredator behavior to avoid detection by a visually orienting predator.
Moritz, C. & Uzzell, T. & Spolsky, C. & Hotz, H. & Darevsky, I.S. & Kupriyanova, L. & Danielyan, F. (1992) -
Restriction enzymes were used to assay variation among mitochondrial DNAs from parthenogenetic and sexual species of Lacerta. This permitted identification of the sexual species that acted as the maternal parent of the various hybrid-parthenogenetic lineages. Lacerta mixta was the maternal parent for both L. dahli and L. armeniaca, L. valentini was the maternal parent for L. uzzelli, and L. raddei was the maternal parent of L. rostombekovi. The maternal ancestry of L. unisexualis is not as clear. The sample of L. nairensis was very similar to one from a population of L. raddei and either species could be the maternal parent of L. unisexualis. The parthenogenetic species all had very low nucleotide diversity in absolute terms and in comparison to their sexual relatives. The close similarity between mtDNAs from the parthenogenetic species and their respective sexual maternal ancestor species provides strong evidence for the recent origin of the parthenogens. The low diversity of the parthenogens indicates that few females were involved in their origins; the maternal parents of L. dahli and L. armeniaca could have come from a single population. The patterns of mtDNA variation in Lacerta are very similar to those in Cnemidophorus and Heteronotia, establishing recent and geographically restricted origins as a general feature of parthenogenetic lizards.
Moritz, S: & Schilling, N. (2013) -
The perivertebral musculature of lizards is critical for the stabilization and the mobilization of the trunk during locomotion. Some trunk muscles are also involved in ventilation. This dual function of trunk muscles in locomotion and ventilation leads to a biomechanical conflict in many lizards and constrains their ability to breathe while running (“axial constraint”) which likely is reflected by their high anaerobic scope. Furthermore, different foraging and predator-escape strategies were shown to correlate with the metabolic profile of locomotor muscles in lizards. Because knowledge of muscle`s fiber-type composition may help to reveal a muscle`s functional properties, we investigated the distribution pattern of muscle fiber types in the perivertebral musculature in two small lizard species with a generalized body shape and subjected to the axial constraint (Dipsosaurus dorsalis, Acanthodactylus maculatus) and one species that circumvents the axial constraint by means of gular pumping (Varanus exanthematicus). Additionally, these species differ in their predator-escape and foraging behaviors. Using refined enzyme-histochemical protocols, muscle fiber types were differentiated in serial cross-sections through the trunk, maintaining the anatomical relationships between the skeleton and the musculature. The fiber composition in Dipsosaurus and Acanthodactylus showed a highly glycolytic profile, consistent with their intermittent locomotor style and reliance on anaerobic metabolism during activity. Because early representatives of diapsids resemble these two species in several postcranial characters, we suggest that this glycolytic profile represents the plesiomorphic condition for diapsids. In Varanus, we found a high proportion of oxidative fibers in all muscles, which is in accordance with its high aerobic scope and capability of sustained locomotion.
Morssinkhof, R. & Noordijk, J. (2011) -
Morsy, K. & Abdel-Rahman, B. & Abdel-Ghaffar, F. & Mehlmann, H. & Al Quraishy, S., & Al-Ghamdi, A. & Koura, E. & Maher, S. (2012) -
In the present investigation, macroscopic sarcocysts of Sarcocystis acanthocolubri were observed in muscles of 42 (4.3%) out of 975 Acanthodactylus sp. lizards collected from different geographical areas in Egypt. The infection rate was 6.4% in Acanthodactylus boskianus, 2.1% in Acanthodactylus sculentus, and 5% in Acanthodactylus paradalis. The highest infection rate was recorded in the lizards captured from Baltem (10% in A. boskianus and 8% in A. paradalis). The infection rate was usually higher in females (7.4%) than in males (3.8%). Moreover, the highest infection rate was recorded in summer (7.53%), autumn (3.57%), and spring (3.11%), and the lowest was recorded in winter (0.91%). Also, old animals had higher infection rates (10.8%) than young ones (0–2.7%). Macrocysts measured 0.95×10.12 mm. Both macroscopic and microscopic sarcocysts were enclosed only by a primary cyst wall, which had many finger-like, stalkless, and nonbranched protrusions giving it a striated appearance. The primary cyst wall measured 3.9 μm. A dark granulated ground substance was found directly underneath the protrusions and is extended interiorly dividing the cyst cavity into many compartments containing the parasites (metrocytes and merozoites). Metrocytes were found directly under the ground substance and usually multiply asexually by endodyogeny producing two merozoites from each metrocyte. Both metrocytes and merozoites had the apical complex structures characteristic to the genus Sarcocystis. Transmission experiments with three snake species indicated that the snake Spalerosophis diadema is the proper final host belonging to the family Colubridae. The prepatent period was 16 days, while the patent period was 35 days. The results obtained from the present investigation revealed that this is a new species which was named Sarcocystis acanthocolubri.
Mortensen, H.C.H. (1887) -
Mortier, M. (2003) -
Mošansky, A. (1957) -
Mošansky, A. (1965) -
Mosauer, W. & Wallis, K. (1924) -
Mosconi, G. & Carnevali, O. & Polzonetti, A.M. (1991) -
Variations in ovary weight and seasonal changes in plasma androgens, 17 beta-estradiol and progesterone have been studied during the reproductive cycle of female Podarcis s. sicula Raf. Adult female Podarcis were captured in the surroundings of Naples during the years 1988 and 1989. Ten lizards were sampled monthly (except in February, August, October and December). Ovaries and oviducts were submitted to morphological examination, and in the blood samples androgens, 17 beta-estradiol and progesterone were assessed by the radioimmunoassay (RIA) method. Ovary weight, expressed as the gonadosomatic index (GSI), presented two statistically significant peak values in April and June, related to the ovulatory waves observed in this study. Several shelled oocytes were also found in the oviducts in this period. Progesterone titers mirrored the modifications of GSI and a very significant correlation (p less than 0.001) between the two parameters can be ascertained. Androgens increased in early spring, peaked in April, and low levels of androgens were found in September and during the winter months. Estradiol titers reached the peak values in March, and, after a sharp decrease in April, remained high until the winter months. The results reported here substantiate the periovulatory changes of the three major gonadal steroids during the annual ovarian cycle of Podarcis s. sicula.
Moser, J. (1998) -
Die in Oberösterreich bisher nur aus dem Donautal flußaufwärts von Steyregg und dessen unmittelbarem Umland bekannte Smaragdeidechse (Lacena viridis) konnte an einem neuen Fundort nachgewiesen werden. Bei Sarmingstein (Bezirk Perg) gelang der erster Nachweis einer Smaragdeidechse (Lacerla viridis) im oberösterreichischen Donautal östlich von Linz. Bei gezielten Nachsuchen konnten keine Hinweise auf ein zusammenhängendes Verbreitungsgebiet der Smaragdeidechse (Lacerta viridis) im oberösterreichischen Donautal östlich von Linz gefunden werden.
Moser, J. (2000) -
Moser, J. (2008) -
Mothey, R. & Rai, A. & Chettri, B. (2022) -
Motta, C.M. & Andreuccetti, P. & Filosa, S. (1991) -
In order to provide cytological evidence of amplification, Podarcis sicula oocytes were studied by cytophotometry, thymidine incorporation and in situ DNA-DNA hybridization. Our results show that DNA replication is completed during the preleptotene stage, the leptotene oocytes having the typical 4C nuclear DNA content. Between the zygotene and the mid-pachytene stages further DNA synthesis occurs with consequent increase of the ribosomal nuclear DNA content. These results and the variations in nucleolar organization observed during differentiation give clear evidence of the existence of ribosomal gene amplification in Podarcis sicula oocytes.
Motta, C.M. & Filosa, S. & Andreucetti, P. (1987) -
Motta, C.M. & Filosa, S. & Andreucetti, P. (1996) -
We investigated the reorganization of the follicular epithelium at the end of previtellogenesis in the lizard Podarcis sicula. In particular, we determined the mechanism of intermediate and pyriform cell regression and the fate of their different subcellular constituents. Morphological and biochemical analyses revealed the presence of hallmarks of apoptosis such as nuclear changes, chromatin condensation, protein scaffolds, RNA synthesis, and DNA fragmentation. It was therefore concluded that the remodelling of the follicular epithelium is associated with programmed cell death. Evidence was also obtained that during regression, the cytoplasmic constituents of intermediate and pyriform cells are transferred into the oocyte while the remnants of the nuclei are recycled by the small cells. The functional significance of these events is discussed.
Motta, C.M. & Scanderberg, M.C. & Filosa, S. & Andreuccetti, P. (1995) -
In order to clarify the role of follicle cells during growth of previtellogenic oocytes in lizards, an ultrastructural and autoradiographic investigation was carried out in Podarcis sicula. The evidence obtained clearly indicated that both intermediate and pyriform cells are actively involved in the synthesis of RNA that is then transferred to the oocyte, via intercellular bridges, apparently together with a variety of cytoplasmic organelles. At the end of the previtellogenic phase of growth, during the regression of the epithelium, the rate of synthesis of RNA in follicle cells is reduced, in particular in the nucleolus, but the flow of materials toward the oocyte continues. Thus, the intermediate and pyriform cells should be regarded as nurse cells even though they have characteristics rather different from those of the nurse cells described in other animals, such as insects.
Motta, C.M. & Simoniello, P. & Filosa, S. (2011) -
Motta, C.M. & Tammaro, S. & Lorenzo, M. di & Panzuto, R. & Verderame, M. & Migliaccio, V. & Simoniello, P. (2020) -
In the lacertid Podarcis siculus the reproductive cycle is typically biphasic, with alternate recrudescence (Spring and Fall) and resting (Summer and Winter) phases. This study aimed to shed some light on the role exerted by progesterone during the two recrudescence periods; to this purpose, exogenous progesterone was administered intraperitoneally and the effects on oogonial proliferation, oocyte recruitment, and follicle cells apoptosis were determined. The presence and distribution of progesterone receptors was also investigated by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. Results indicate that progesterone would play different roles and follow different route of action in the two recrudescence periods thus confirming the complexity of the mechanisms controlling oogenesis in this species of vertebrate.
Mou, Y.-P. (1987) -
The feeding ecology of a population of the Wall Lizard Podarcis muralis was studied in the West of France from 1982 to 1983. The consumption and the availability of prey have been compared considering taxonomie categories and size classes. The wide taxonomie spectra, the great size range of ingested prey, and the important temporal variability of the diet stressed the opportunistic feeding behaviour of this species. However, a detailed comparison between the consumption and the availability of prey, and the comparison with another population (Mou et Barbault, 1986) reveal sorne degree of prey selection, which modulates the trophic opportunism characteristic of this species
Mou, Y.P. (1987) -
Mou, Y.P. (1989) -
Mou, Y.P. & Barbault, R. (1986) -
Diet and its variations as a function of time and of lizard size were studied in a natural population of Podarcis muralis in the south-west of France during 1980 and 1981. The taxonomic diversity of the ingested food items, the wide range of prey size, the absence of a close relationship between prey and predator size, and the seasonal and interannual variation of the composition of the diet emphasize the alimentary opportunism of this lizard species. Such opportunism is supposed to be related to the ecological conditions of the studied population, which include high population density, low prey productivity within the biotope, unpredictable variability of prey abundance, and low interspecific competitive pressure.
Mou, Y.P. & Barbault, R. (1988) -
Mouane, A. (2020) -
Mouane, A. & Ayati, H. & Korichi, R. & Mesbahi, K. (2017) -
The diet of an Algerian population of Acanthodactyle was studied with the aims of exploring: the variation in diet among males and females and between the habitats in particular between the palm grove and the erg. The study of the diet of lizard Acanthodactylus scutellatus, was realized in the region of the Souf, which is located in the South East to Algeria. The analyzes of the stomach contents of the captured individuals made it possible to measure the relative abundance of the prey consumed. Indeed, the diet was composed of the hymenoptera with a percentage of 38.4%, Homoptera with 30.4%, of the Coleoptera with 12.2%, Lepidoptera with 6%, of Diptera with 5.6%, the Dermoptera and the Collembola with 0.4%, including, Arachnida and the plants. The present study revealed that males consume much of the hymenoptera than the females which prefers Homoptera. So the diet varies according to the sex (males and females) and according to the habitats (Palm grove and the erg). So, there exist relations between qualities, quantities of prey and the size of the individuals of Acanthodactylus scutellatus.
Mouane, A. & Harrouchi, A. & Ghennoum, I. & Sekour, M. (2021) -
The present study was based on the observations and captures of reptiles in the Northern Algerian Sahara (2011-2013). The studied habitats were the erg (sand dunes), palm grove, reg, Sebkha, and urban sites. We have identified 30 species (20 Saurians, 9 Ophidians and one Testudines) these species are classified into two orders (Anura and Squamata), 12 families and 22 different genera. Among the identified species, 7 protected species in Algeria and 5 species endemic to the Mediterranean. A total of 93.3% (28 species) are assessed as Least Concern and one species was considered to be Data Deficient (Scincopus fasciatus). One species is listed as near threatened (Uromastix acanthinurus). The highest species richness was noticed in the palm groves with 19 species as well as the Shannon diversity index= 3.35. The evenness is at its highest in the sebkha and the urban site with 0.9 and 0.86. The correspondence factorial analysis showed that some species were characteristic of habitats such as Tarentola neglecta and Tarentola deserti which are a specific species of the urban sites and the palm groves, while Scincus scincus was a specific species of the Erg. The generalized linear model showed that the geographic coordinate, spatiotemporal factors and human activity have significant effect on the distribution of reptiles.
Mouane, A. & Harrouchi, A. & Ghennoum, I. & Sekour, M. & Chenchouni, H. (2024) -
The spatial and seasonal variations in amphibian and reptile diversity were studied in different biotopes (lowlands, desert pavements “Reg,” Sabkhas “salt lakes,” date palm groves, wadis, and urban sites) at the Algerian Sahara Desert. No prior research has explored the connection between the distribution of reptiles and amphibians in Algeria’s Sahara and the environmental diversity of biotopes and landscapes. This study aimed to address this significant knowledge gap by investigating the relationships between Saharan habitats and landscapes and their impact on herpetofaunal presence, abundance, and diversity. The diversity of amphibians and reptiles was assessed based on quantitative data of species captures using nonparametric diversity indices, species richness accumulation curves, and similarity analysis. At the Region of Oued Righ (Northern Sahara Desert), we identified 3 amphibians, 19 lizards, and 10 ophidian species. These 32 species (approximately 30% of the Algerian herpetofauna) were classified into 2 orders (Anura and Squamata), 15 families, and 23 different genera.The study area included 8 protected species in Algeria and 9 endemic species to the Mediterranean region, including 1 amphibian and 7 species of reptiles. Acanthodactylus dumerilii was the most abundant species (20.5% of the total), whereas Chalcides ocellatus occurred in 32.9% of specimens. The highest values of species richness were recorded in palm groves with 22 species and Shannon’s diversity index (H’) was 3.5,whereas the lowest values were obtained in Sabkhas (5 species) and urban sites (7 species).The number of individuals experienced significant variations between study biotopes and seasons. Overall, species richness estimators (Chao2 and Jackknife1) revealed that the current survey achieved 90% of inventory completeness. Estimates and interpolations of species richness showed higher values in urban sites, palm groves, desert pavements, and wadis compared to Sabkhas and lowlands where completeness ranged between 90% and 100%. The analysis of similarity indicated low similarity values (<50%) between biotopes studied. The highest similarities were noted between the mesic biotopes (Sabkhas, wadis, and palm groves), the xeric and undisturbed biotopes (desert pavements and lowlands), whereas urban sites showed a distinct herpetofaunal community that was completely different of that recorded in Sabkhas, wadis, and lowlands.
Moulton, N. & Corbett, K. (1999) -
Moulton, N. & Wilkinson, J. & Davis, C. & Foster, J. & Howe, L. (2011) -
Mouret, V. & Guillaumet, A. & Cheylan, M. & Pottier, G. & Ferchaud, A.-L. & Crochet, P.-A. (2011) -
Aim The genetic impact of Quaternary climatic fluctuations on mountain endemic species has rarely been investigated. The Pyrenean rock lizard (Iberolacerta bonnali) is restricted to alpine habitats in the Pyrenees where it exhibits a highly fragmented distribution between massifs and between habitats within massifs. Using mitochondrial DNA markers, we set out: (1) to test whether several evolutionary units exist within the species; (2) to understand how the species persisted through the Last Glacial Maximum and whether the current range fragmentation originates from distribution shifts after the Last Glacial Maximum or from more ancient events; and (3) to investigate whether current mitochondrial diversity reflects past population history or current habitat fragmentation. Location The Pyrenees in south-western France and northern Spain. Methods We used variation in the hypervariable left domain of the mitochondrial control region of 146 lizards collected in 15 localities, supplemented by cytochrome b sequences downloaded from GenBank to cover most of the species’ distribution range. Measures of population genetic diversity were contrasted with population isolation inferred from topography. Classical (F-statistics) and coalescence-based methods were used to assess the level of gene flow and estimate divergence time between populations. We used coalescence-based simulations to test the congruence of our genetic data with a scenario of simultaneous divergence of current populations. Results Coalescence-based analyses suggested that these peripheral populations diverged simultaneously at the end of the last glacial episode when their habitats became isolated on mountain summits. High mitochondrial diversity was found in peripheral, isolated populations, while the populations from the core of the species’ range were genetically impoverished. Where mitochondrial diversity has been retained, populations within the same massif exhibited high levels of genetic differentiation. Main conclusions As suggested for many other mountain species, the Pyrenean rock lizard survived glacial maxima through short-distance range shifts instead of migration or contraction in distant southern refugia. Most of the main Pyrenean range has apparently been re-colonized from a single or a few source populations, resulting in a loss of genetic diversity in re-colonized areas. As a result, current levels of intra-population mitochondrial diversity are better explained by post-glacial population history than by current habitat fragmentation. Genetic population differentiation within massifs implies severe reduction in female-mediated gene flow between patches of habitats.
Mourge, M. (1908) -
Mourge, M. (1909) -
Mourge, M. (1910) -
Mourgue, M. (1908) -
Mourgue, M. (1935) -
Mousa Disi, A.M. (2009) -
Mousa Disi, A.M. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. & Sadek, R. & Sindaco, R. (2009) -
Mouton, F.N. le & Oelofsen, B.W. & Mostert, D.P. (1987) -
A survey of the lizard fauna of the south-western Cape has provided additional distributional and ecological information on four species formerly listed as threatened. The status of Phyllodactylus microlepidotus , Lacerta australis, Cordylus cataphractus and Scelotes gronovii is reconsidered in the light of the new information. The conservation status of two recently discovered species is also discussed. The authors` present knowledge of the lizard fauna of the Cape Province is considered and recommendations made for sampling methodology in future studies.
Mouton, P. le F. (1988) -
Mouton, P. le F.N. & Wyk, J.H. van (1993) -
Moya, Ó. & Mansilla, P.-L. & Madrazo, S. & Igual, J.M. & Rotger, A. & Romano, A. & Tavecchia, G. (2015) -
Unique body characteristics are increasingly used for individual recognition to avoid the effort and the potential negative effects of capture–mark–recapture technique.As a consequence there is a growing demand for computer procedures to assist users in photo-recognition of an individual. We present a new software for photo-matching developed to minimize the pre-processing time and maximize the speed of the matching procedure. In APHIS photos can be processed in batches of hundreds and users can select between two alternative matching procedures, one interactive, built as an extension of existing and freely available software, and one automatic. We assessed its performance in terms of individual recognition and time efficiency and illustrate its use with real capture-photo–recapture studies on a reptile and an amphibian species, the Balearic Lizard Podiarcis lilfordi and the Northern spectacled salamander Salamandrina perspicillata, with contrasting skin patterns.
Mozaffari, O. (2010) -
Mozaffari, O. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Parham, J. F. (2011) -
We describe a new species of Eremias lacertid from the Alborz Mountain range in northern Iran (Tehran Province). Eremias papenfussi n. sp. is part of the Eremias subgenus (or morphotype) by virtue of lacking lateral fringes on the fourth toe and color pattern. It can be further differentiated from previously described species assigned to this morphotype by the absence of distinctly keeled upper caudal scales, gular scales that do not extend to the second inframaxiallary scales, color pattern, and scale counts. Eremias papenfussi is found on rocky mountain slopes of the Alborz where it is presumed to have a much broader distribution than demonstrated by the available specimens. Of the 15 species of Eremias known from Iran, E. papenfussi is the fifth species known to inhabit rocky mountain slopes along with E. strauchi, E. lalezharica, E. montanus and E. novo.
Mozaffari, O. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Saberi-Pirooz, R. (2020) -
We describe a new species of Lacertid lizard of the genus Eremias from the border of the northeastern side of Markazi Province to the western side of Tehran Province in Iran. Eremias fahimii sp. nov. is part of the Eremias subgenus (or morphotype) by virtue of lacking lateral fringes on the fourth toe, having movable eyelids, a lower nasal shield that rests on two supralabials, and ventral plates arranged in oblique longitudinal rows. It can be further differentiated from previously described species assigned to this morphotype by the absence of distinctly keeled upper caudal scales, gular scales that do not extend to the second inframaxiallary scales, shape and relative size of frontoparietals, parietal and parietals, scale counts and absence of lateral color ocellus. In addition, the molecular phylogeny of the most common Iranian racerunnersincluding Eremias fahimii sp. nov. was studied using mitochondrial Cytochrome b (Cyt b) and 12S ribosomal RNA (12S) genes. Our results support the validation of the new species which depicts a sister group relationship to E. persica. Of the 20 species of Eremias known from Iran, E. fahimii sp. nov. is the seventh endemic species along with E. andersoni, E. isfahanica, E. lalezharica, E. kavirensis, E. montana and E. papenfussi. Despite the fact that up to now E. fahimii sp. nov.is only known from the type locality, it is highly probable that it also occurs in Tehran, Alborz, Qom, Qazvin and Zanjan Provinces due to topological characteristics and habitat similarities in these areas.
Mozaffari, O. & Mohammadi, S. & Saberi-Pirooz, R. & Ahmadzadeh, F. (2021) -
Acanthodactylus boskianus is a widespread species in Northern Africa and Western Asia. In this study, we used morphological and genetic approaches to study populations of A. boskianus from the Zagros Mountains in western Iran, the easternmost limit of the species’ distribution. Our morphological and genetic data indicate that populations of A. boskianus in Iran are distinct from other populations of A. boskianus. Therefore, we describe the Iranian populations as Acanthodactylus zagrosicus sp. nov. The new species is the third endemic species of Acanthodactylus in Iran and the ninth Acanthodactylus species distributed in Iran overall. According to our surveys, this species is distributed widely in the Zagros Mountains including Kermanshah, Lorestan, Ilam, and Khuzestan Provinces.
Mozaffari, O. & Parham, J.F. (2007) -
A new species of lacertid lizard, Eremias kavirensis sp.nov., is described from Isfahan Province in central Iran. The new species differs from all other known Iranian Eremias by having a subocoluar scale that does not reach the mouth, fringed toes, scales on flank distinctly larger than those of back, two rows of tibial scales, and its coloration. The known distribution of this distinctive new species is restricted to the Maranjaab sand dunes, Kavir Desert (Dasht-e-Kavir), Isfahan Province, Iran.
Mršić, N. (1978) -
Mršić, N. (1987) -
Mršić, N. & Nemeschkal, H.L. & Potočnik, F. & Schwammer, G. & Schwammer, H. (1989) -
Mudde, P. (1982) -
Some notes are given on Algyroides nigropunctatus, its taxonomy, distribution, appearance and behavior. Algyroides nigropunctatus has been described as Lacerta nigropunctatus, but also as Lacerta schreibersii. It has been placed in the genus Algyroides and also in Notopholis. The species is found from East-Italy to Northern Greece in coastal regions. It is very abundant on Corfu. The species varies in coloration throughout its distribution. Individuals from the Pantokrator mountain on Corfu are darker than those from nearby the shore of that island. The species seems to live in pairs, some experiments by the author however indicate that these pairs are not really ´loyal`. The daily activities are described. The author hopes to write another article on reproduction and keeping in captivity in the near future.
Mudde, P. (1991) -
A BLACK SPECIMEN OF LACERTA MONT/COLA Isolation and environmental factors can result in special colored populations of lizards on moun- taintops and islands. Near Lago Ercina in the Pi- cos d`Europa a single all black specimen ofLacer- ta monticola was found. Although this specimen could be infertile, ill or not capable of getting a suitable territorium, the author nevertheless sug- gests the possibility of the development of a black population in about ten years time.
Mudde, P. (1992) -
Mudde, P. & Kivit, R. & Mantel, P. (1994) -
On many occasions green reptiles bred in captivity are observed to develop a dull blue coloration instead of their normal bright green colour. It has been shown in green lizards that when such blue individuals are transferred to outdoor accommodations they rapidly revert to their normal colour. However, this does not occur in captive bred Basiliscus plumifrons. which tend to keep a bluish green colour. and some Chondropython viridis also do not revert to their natural green. It is suggested that the blue coloration may be due to the absence and/or the intensity of light and radiation of particular wavelengths. Readers are invited to take record of the occurrence of this phenom- enon, and to report their findings to the authors.
Mudde, Peter (1998) -
Mueller-Paul, J. & Wilkinson, A. & Hall, G. & Huber, L. (2012) -
Spatial cognition is an essential survival tool and a much studied area of cognition in mammals and birds. The radialarm maze is a commonly used spatial cognition task, which requires an animal to move to a number of different locations and avoid revisits to previously rewarded ones. Although much is known about mammalian and avian radial maze behaviour, very little research has examined reptilian abilities in this setup. To date, only red-footed tortoises (Geochelone carbonaria) have been tested and mastered this task. The present study examined whether jewelled lizards (Timon lepidus) were able to learn a complex spatial task and investigated the cognitive mechanisms underlying this ability. Of three lizards trained in an eight-arm radial maze, one readily learned to navigate. Examination of its choice behaviour revealed the use of a turn-by-one arm response stereotypy. This shows, for the first time, that a lizard can successfully learn to navigate around a complex maze task. An understanding of the ability for and mechanisms of spatial cognition in reptiles is particularly important as reptiles do not possess those brain regions which have been found to determine spatial orientation in mammals and birds.
Mugabo, M. & Galliard, J.F. le & Perret, S. & Decencière, B. & Haussy, C. & Meylan, S. (2017) -
Negative density feedbacks have been extensively described in animal species and involve both consumptive (i.e. trophic interactions) and non-consumptive (i.e. social interactions) mechanisms. Glucocorticoids are a major component of the physiological stress response and homeostasis, and therefore make a good candidate for proximate determinants of negative density feedbacks. Here, we combined laboratory and field experiments with enclosed populations to investigate the relationship between density, social stress and plasma corticosterone levels in the common lizard Zootoca vivipara . This species exhibits strong negative density feedbacks that affect females more than males, and its life history is sensitive to experimentally-induced chronic elevation of corticosterone plasma levels. We found that prolonged crowding in the laboratory can trigger a chronic secretion of corticosterone independent from food restriction. In the field experiments, corticosterone levels of females were not aff ected by population density. Corticosterone levels of males increased with population density but only during the late activity season in a first field experiment where we manipulated density. They also increased with density during the mating season but only in populations with a female-biased sex ratio in a second field experiment where we crossed manipulated density and adult sex ratio. Altogether, our results provide limited evidence for a role of basal corticosterone secretion in density feedbacks in this species. Context and density-dependent eff ects in males may arise from changes in behavior caused by competition for resources, male – male competition, and mating.
Mugabo, M. & Marquis, O. & Perret, S. & Galliard, J.F. le (2010) -
Detailed studies of the mechanisms driving life history effects of food availability are of prime importance to understand the evolution of phenotypic plasticity and the capacity of organisms to produce better adapted phenotypes. Food availability may influence life history trajectories through three nonexclusive mechanisms: (i) immediate and long-lasting effects on individual quality, and indirect delayed effects on (ii) intracohort and (iii) intercohort interactions. Using the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), we tested whether a food deprivation during the two-first months of life influence life history (growth, survival, reproduction) and performance traits (immunocompetence, locomotor performances) until adulthood. We investigated the underlyingmechanisms and their possible interactions by manipulating jointly food availability in a birth cohort and in cohorts of older conspecifics. Food deprivation had direct immediate negative effects on growth but positive longlasting effects on immunocompetence. Food deprivation had also indirect delayed effects on growth, body size, early survival and reproduction mediated by an interaction between its direct effects on individual quality and its delayed effects on the intensity of intercohort social interactions combined with density dependence on body size. These results demonstrate that interactions between direct and socially mediated effects of past environments influence life history evolution in size-structured and stage-structured populations.
Mugabo, M. & Marquis, O. & Perret, S. & Galliard, J.F. le (2011) -
Food availability is a major environmental factor that can influence life history within and across generations through direct effects on individual quality and indirect effects on the intensity of intra- and intercohort competition. Here, we investigated in yearling and adult common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) the immediate and delayed life-history effects of a prolonged food deprivation in the laboratory.We generated groups of fully fed or food-deprived yearlings and adults at the end of one breeding season. These lizards were released in 16 outdoor enclosures together with yearlings and adults from the same food treatment and with fooddeprived or fully fed juveniles, creating four types of experimental populations. Experimental populations were then monitored during 2 years, which revealed complex effects of food on life-history trajectories. Food availability had immediate direct effects on morphology and delayed direct effects on immunocompetence and female body condition at winter emergence. Also, male annual survival rate and female growth rate and body size were affected by an interaction between direct effects of food availability and indirect effects on asymmetric competition with juveniles. Reproductive outputs were insensitive to past food availability, suggesting that female common lizards do not solely rely on stored energy to fuel reproduction. Finally, food conditions had socially-mediated intergenerational effects on early growth and survival of offspring through their effects on the intensity of competition. This study highlights the importance of social interactions among cohorts for life-history trajectories and population dynamics in stagestructured populations.
Mülayim, A. & Tok, C.V. & Ayaz, D. (2001) -
In this study, 46 specimens (28 ♂♂, 18 ♀♀) collected in the vicinity of Beyşehir have been studied morphometrically in respect to colouration and pholidosis. The data were compared to the relevant literature and particular attention was paid to the characters which demonstrate sexual differences. According to the data, significant differences were present concerning the pileus length, pileus width, head+thorax length, number of scales at mid-trunk, number of femoral pores and transverse ventral plate sequence throughout the thorax. Also, it was found that Beyşehir specimens were not different taxonomically from the Lacerta parva populations distrubuted elsewhere in Anatolia and Caucasus regions.
Bu çalışmada, Beyşehir civarından toplanan 46 örnek (28 ♂♂, 18 ♀♀) renk-desen, vücut ölçüm ve oranları ile pholidosis özellikleri bakımından ayrıntılı olarak araştırılmış, elde edilen veriler literatür bilgisi ile karşılaştırılarak özellikle cinsiyet farkı gösteren karakterlerin belirlenmesine çalışılmıştır. Çalışmada elde edilen verilere göre pile-us boyu, pileus eni, baş+gövde boyu, vücut ortasındaki sırt pulu sayısı, femoral delik sayısı ve gövde boyunda enine ventral plak sırası bakımından cinsiyetler arasında istatistik olarak önemli kabul edilebilecek farklılıklar bulunmuştur. Ayrıca Beyşehir örnekleri literatür verileri ile karşılaştırılmış, Anadolu ve Kafkaslar`da dağılış gösteren Lacerta parva populasyonlarından taksonomik olarak ayrılmadığı sonucuna varılmıştır.
Mulder, J. (1995) -
Mulder, J. (1998) -
The western parts of Iran were visited twice. Beside many other interesting species both subspecies of the Zagros lizard were also found. The observations, the biotope and some of the behaviour of these animals are dealt with.
Mulder, J. (2004) -
Mulder, J. (2006) -
Mulder, J. (2007) -
Mulder, J. (2019) -
Presented is a comprehensive overview of data on the herpetological species occurring in the Ararat region of Turkey. A total of 41 species, including their first records, published historical localities, and respective sources, are recorded in this assessment of surprisingly high regional species richness.
Mulder, J. (2021) -
Harran Fringe-fingered Lizard, Acanthodactylus harranensishas been assumed to be endemic to Turkey so far. Here an ancient personal finding from Syria is presented that was recorded ten years beforethe classification of the species. The newly acquired distributional data of this endangered species is discussed, including the consequences about the survival of the species.
Müller, A. (1926) -
Müller, D. (1993) -
Müller, F. (1916) -
Müller, H. (1852) -
Müller, H. (1865) -
Müller, J. (1992) -
Müller, J. (1995) -
During a four week journey to Jordan in summer of 1994 the following five species of the lizard family Lacertidae were observed: Acanthodactylus boskianus asper, A. opheodurus, A. schmidti, Ophisops elegans ehrenbergii, and Lacerta cf. kulzeri.
Müller, J. (1996) -
During a journey to Jordan in July/August 1994, 19 species of amphibians and reptiles were recorded. Some ecological observations were made in their habitats. The find of giant tadpoles of Rana ridibunda and the problematic, unclear systematic status of Ophisops elegans ehrenbergi in Jordan are emphasized
Müller, J. (1998) -
During a journey to Tanzania in September/October 1997 Nucras boulengeri was observed in the Uluguru Mountains. Its habitat as well as its appearence, distribution and keeping in captivity are described. For the first time the courtship behaviour is documented, the male uses a neck bite during copulation. Until now no pregnancy occured. The ovary of a dead female from the same locality contained four eggs with an average size of 10,5 x 5,5 mm.
Müller, J. (1999) -
Müller, J. (2001) -
Müller, J. (2002) -
The skull of the poorly known Asia Minor lacertid lizard Parvilacerta parva is described. In comparison to other palaearctic lacertids, Parvilacerta parva displays several peculiar traits such as a large braincase, a short parietal table, closed post-temporal openings, reduced ossification, or a large lacrimal. Many features are related to the small size of Parvilacerta parva and are of apparently heterochronic nature, as they can also be found in certain ontogenetic stages of other lacertid species. Small size and heterochrony even seem to be factors involved in the less-developed sexual dimorphism of Parvilacerta parva. The described morphology is interpreted to be related to a life history strategy in r-selecting, semiarid environments.
Müller, J. & Bischoff, W. (1994) -
In July 1994, five specimens of the Lacerta-laevis-complex (sensu BISCHOFF & SCHMIDTLER 1994) were collected at Petra/Jordan. Their habitat and some ecological observations are described. The external morphological characters are discussed in relation to Lacerta l. laevis and L. kulzeri. The lizards of Petra do not belong to L. laevis, but have closer relationships to L. kulzeri frorn the Libanon mountains. It is suggested to name thern preliminarily as Lacerta cf. kulzeri. Beside this species, also Lacerta l. laevis exists in Jordan.
Müller, J. & Hipsley C.A. & Head J.J. & Kardjilov, N. & Hilger, A. & Wuttke, M. & Reisz, R.R. (2011) -
Amphisbaenia is a speciose clade of fossorial lizards characterized by a snake-like body and a strongly reinforced skull adapted for head-first burrowing1,2. The evolutionary origins of amphisbae- nians are controversial, with molecular data uniting them with lacertids3,4, a clade of Old World terrestrial lizards, whereas mor- phology supports a grouping with snakes and other limbless squa- mates5–9. Reports of fossil stem amphisbaenians10 have been falsified11, and no fossils have previously tested these competing phylogenetic hypotheses or shed light on ancestral amphisbaenian ecology. Here we report the discovery of a new lacertid-like lizard from the Eocene Messel locality of Germany that provides the first morphological evidence for lacertid–amphisbaenian monophyly on the basis of a reinforced, akinetic skull roof and braincase, sup- porting the view that body elongation and limblessness in amphis- baenians and snakes evolved independently. Morphometric analysis of body shape and ecology in squamates indicates that the postcra- nial anatomy of the new taxon is most consistent with opportunis- tically burrowing habits, which in combination with cranial reinforcement indicates that head-first burrowing evolved before body elongation and may have been a crucial first step in the evolu- tion of amphisbaenian fossoriality.
Müller, L. (1901) -
Müller, L. (1902) -
Müller, L. (1904) -
Müller, L. (1905) -
Müller, L. (1908) -
Müller, L. (1910) -
Müller, L. (1922) -
Müller, L. (1927) -
Müller, L. (1928) -
Müller, L. (1929) -
Müller, L. (1932) -
Müller, L. (1933) -
Müller, L. (1935) -
Müller, L. (1936) -
Müller, L. (1938) -
Müller, L. (1939) -
Müller, L. & Hellmich, W. (1937) -
Müller, L. & Wettstein, O. (1933) -
Müller, L. & Wettstein, O. von (1932) -
Müller, M. (2002) -
Müller, M.M. (2007) -
Die vorliegende Arbeit gilt Lacerta viridis, der Östlichen Smaragdeidechse in Mitteleuropa. Einteilung und Unterscheidung von L. viridis und L. bilineata werden angeführt, Grundbegriffe zu diesen beiden Eidechsenarten erläutert. Es folgt eine Zusammenfassung der Phänologie und Verhaltensweise von L. viridis, überblicksmäßig wird auch das Fortpflanzungsverhalten aufgezeigt. Die Schwerpunkte dieser Arbeit beziehen sich auf das Vorkommen (Verbreitung, Lebensraum, zeitliches Auftreten; auch ein lokales Populationsbeispiel wird angeführt) sowie die Gefährdung in Europa und Österreich, mit der Ergänzung möglicher bzw. notwendiger Schutzmaßnahmen, um den Fortbestand dieser Art zu sichern.
Müller, O.F. (1776) -
Müller, P. (1968) -
Müller, P. (1971) -
Measurements of 131 specimens of Lacerta viridis fejervaryi from Elba island were taken. There was no proof that relative tail length will decline in populations of higher altitudes (more that 600 m) or will change from east tO west.
Müller, S. (1975) -
Müller, W. (1971) -
Müller, W.R. (2004) -
Im nördlichen Niederrheinischen Tiefland (NRW) kommen sechs Reptilienarten vor: Blindschleiche (Anguis fragilis), Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis), Waldeidechse (Zootoca vivipara), Schlingnatter (Coronella austriaca), Ringelnatter (Natrix natrix) und Kreuzotter (Vipera berus). Erst- und Letztbeobachtungen (Extremwerte) für adulte Tiere sind für die Blindschleiche der 14.2. bzw. 30.10., für die Zauneidechse der 22.2. bzw. 30.9., für die Waldeidechse der 6.2. bzw. 7.10. und für die Kreuzotter der 6.2. bzw. 30.10. Für die Ringelnatter wird als Extremwert für die Erstbeobachtung der 31.3. und für die Schlingnatter als Letztbeobachtung der 16.10. (subadult) genannt. Darüber hinaus werden einige Daten zu Erst- und Letztbeobachtungen von Jungtieren/Subadulten sowie über das erste Auftreten frisch geschlüpfter oder neu geborener Tiere angegeben.
Mumpuni, M. (2011) -
The morphology and reproductive biology of Takydromus sexlineatus were studied in Bogor. Males are larger than females. There is sexual dimorphism on head size and tail length (larger and longer tail on males) of body size among sexually mature adults, apparently as a consequence of sexual selection. The diet of T. sexlineatus consists of variety of insects and their larvae, arachnids, decapods and snails. Most of the diet are insect (more than 70 % for adults and juveniles). There are higher prey competitions at adult skinks between males and females, adult females and juveniles, but not between adult males and juveniles. The length of adult males and females are 44.6 - 58.1 mm and 49.6 - 62.3 mm respec- tively, lay eggs throughout the year with 2 -3 clutches, per clutch consists of 1 - 3 eggs.
Münch, D. (1998) -
Münch, D. (2001) -
Münch, D. & Hallmann, G. (1997) -
Münch, H. (1959) -
Munganast, E. (1885) -
Munjpara, S. & Kamboj, R.D. & Joshi, J. & Jadeja, D. (2018) -
The Gulf of Kachchh is endowed with a variety of habitats and supports diverse groups of fauna, both invertebrates and vertebrates. The present study was carried out to study distribution of marine and coastal herpetofauna (Amphibians and Reptiles) from the Gulf of Kachchh (GoK). During the study a total of 28 species of herpetofauna were recorded from the GoK, of which, 3 were amphibians (only Anuran) and 25 were reptiles. Among the all recorded species, five species such as Green Sea Turtle, Olive Ridley, Yellow Sea Snake, Annulated Sea Snake and Gerard’s Mud Snake were obligatory marine reptiles. In addition, three other species viz., Saw-scaled Viper, Fringed-toed Lizard and Jerdon’s Snake eye were also r
Munkhbaatar, M. & Terbish, H. & Bobrov, V.V. & Erdenetushig, P. (2018) -
М.Мунхбаатар & Х.Тэрбиш & В.В.Бобров & П.Эрдэнэтушиг (2018) -
Munkhbayar, K. & Borkin, L.J. (2010) -
A new subspecies of the multi-ocellated racerunner, Eremias multiocellata tsaganbogdensis Munkhbayar et Borkin, 2010, subsp. nov. (Lacertidae) is described. Holotype: ZISP.19956.1, Department of Herpetology, Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg. Type territory: Tsagaan Bogd Uul Mountain, Bayanhongor Aymak, southern Mongolia.
Munkhbayar, K. & Borkin, L.J. (2018) -
Munkhbayar, K. & Borkin, L.Y. (1990) -
Munkhbayar, K. & Munkhbaatar, M. (2018) -
From the viewpoint of evolution, the classes of amphibians and reptiles could be considered as relicts, and because they are poikilothermic animals, it’s very difficult for these species to live under the dry and cold climatic conditions in Mongolia. Even species diversity is poor, Mongolian herpetological composition is unique, highly adopted to the country’s harsh climate and originated a long time ago. In Mongolia, 6 species of amphibians belong to four genera, four families and two orders and the recorded 21 species of reptiles belong to 13 genera in 6 families of 2 suborders.
Munnig Schmidt, R.J. (1950) -
Munoz, A.R. & Tamayo, A. (2020) -
Se reporta el primer registro conocido de depredación por parte de un ejemplar de garza imperial (Ardea purpurea) sobre ejemplares adultos de lagartija colilarga (Psammodromus algirus), en el Paraje Natural Desembocadura del río Guadalhorce (Sur de España). Además, se compara la abundancia conocida para la lagartija en diferentes hábitats forestales con la abun-dancia estimada en un hábitat costero asociado a un humedal salobre.
Munro, H.O. (1967) -
Muraro, M. & Sherpa, S. & Barzaghi, B. & Bombi, P. & Borgatti, D. & Canio, V. di & Dalpasso, A. & Falaschi, M. & Gambioli, B. & Manenti, R. & Marta, S. & Momigliano, P. & Nanni, V. & Pardo, C. & Parrino, E. lo & Scali, S. & Storniolo, F. & Vignoli, L. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Sacchi, R. & Salvi, D. & Ficetola, G.F. (2022) -
The evolution of sexual dimorphism (SD) is driven by intricate interplays between sexual and natural selection. When it comes to SD variation within populations, however, environmental factors play a major role. Sexually selected traits are expected to be strongly dependent on individual body condition, which is infuenced by the local environment that individuals experience. As a consequence, the degree of SD may also depend on resource availability. Here, we investigated the potential drivers of SD expression at two sexually dimorphic morphometric traits, body size (snout vent length) and head shape (head geometric morphometrics), in the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus). We assessed the existence of condition- and context-dependent SD across ten islands of the Aeolian archipelago (southern Italy), at within- and among-population scales. We observed strong geographical variation of SD among islands, and tested three potential SD predictors related to resource availability (individual body condition, ecosystem productivity, temperature). Body condition and ecosystem productivity were the main drivers of body size SD variation, and body condition was also the main driver for head shape SD. Our results highlight that the expression of SD in the Italian wall lizard is both condition- and context-dependent. These results are congruent at within- and among populations scales highlighting that spatial multi-scale analysis represents a useful approach to understand patterns of SD expression.
Muratet, J. (2015) -
Murphy, R.W. (1999) -
Murphy, R.W. & Darevsky, I.S: & MacCulloch, R.D. & Fu, J. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Upton, D.E. & Danielyan, F. (1997) -
Allozyme variation at 35 gene loci is investigated in 161 specimens of the uniparental Caucasian lizard Lacerta dahli from several locations in Armenia and Georgia. All individuals are heterozygotic at 12 loci, and homozygotic at 21 loci. Variation at two loci results in five uniparental clones. One clone is widespread whereas four are geographically restricted and are represented by only one or two individuals. Because successful formation of uniparental clones is rare, and because the biparental species forming them are now allopatric, the most probable explanation for the origin of the observed clonal diversity is either mutation or recombination within the common clone. The rare clones have lower levels of enzyme activity at four loci, suggesting that these organisms may be genetically deficient. Although the evidence points to change in a pre-existing clone, the possibility of multiple origins cannot be ruled out.
Murphy, R.W. & Darevsky, I.S. & MacCulloch, R.D. & Fu, J. & Kupriyanova, L.A. (1996) -
The phylogeny of 12 species of Caucasian rock lizards and ground lizards, genus Lacerta, subgenus Archacolacerta, was determined from allozyme data. Three additional species of Lacerta Sorlned the outgroup. Of the 35 loci resolved, 20 were phylogenetically informative. Permutation tail probabilities calculated using Hennig86 and RandomCladistics and g, statistics obtained in PAUP revealed significant pattern in the data. Our analysis resolved 12 most parsimonious trees; among which were three well-supported monophyletic groups: I) (Lacerta alpina, L. caucasica, L. daglzestanica) [the L. caucasica group]; 2) (L. mixta. L. saxicola. L. raddei-nairensis) [the L. saxicola group]; and 3) (L. parvlila, L. portschinskii (L. valentini, L. rudis)) [the L. ruciis group]. The second and third groups formed a clade. The ground lizards L. praticola and L. derj~cginwi ere resolved as ingroup members. but their placement in the globally most parsimonious trees was ambiguous. A preferred tree was chosen by alternately pruning L. praticola and L. devugini from the tree. In doing so, L. praticola was resolved as the sister taxon of the L. calccasica group; and L, derjligini was resolved as the sister taxon of the clade containing the L. snxicola and L. rrldis groups. Our results are somewhat congruent with the morphology-based phylogeny of Darevsky (1967).
Murphy, R.W. & Fu, J. & MacCulloch, R.D. & Darevsky, I.S. & Kupriyanova, L.A. (2000) -
A phylogeny of Caucasian rock lizards (genus Darevskia, formerly Lacerta) was reconstructed using mitochondrial DNA sequence and allozyme data. All 15 bisexual species grouped into three major clades: the caucasica, saxicola and rudis clades. Unisexual Darevskia originate from inter-clade hybridization, never from within clades. Only two clades, the caucasica clade and the rudis clade, were involved in forming unisexuals; the saxicola clade was never involved. Furthermore, the hybridization is directional in that the caucasica clade contributed only maternal parents and the rudis clade only paternal parents. The formation of unisexual species is best explained by sexually directional phylogenetic constraints. We hypothesize that the causative agents are likely to be genes linked with the sex chromosomes within the parental sexual species.
Murray, G.W. & Schramm, D. (1987) -
Murray, I. (1951) -
Murray, I.W. & Fuller, A. & Lease, H.M. & Mitchell, D. & Hetem, R.S. (2016) -
Individual lizard species may reduce competition within a habitat by diverging along one or more niche dimensions, such as spatial, temporal or dietary dimensions. We compared the morphology, activity patterns, microhabitat characteristics, thermal biology and feeding ecology of two species of diurnally active sympatric insectivorous lizards in the Namib Desert, the Husab sand lizard, Pedioplanis husabensis, and Bradfield`s Namib day gecko, Rhoptropus bradfieldi. Pedioplanis husabensis and R. bradfieldi had similar snout-vent lengths (49–52 mm), but P. husabensis (2.5–3.0 g) weighed less than R. bradfieldi (3.1–3.9 g). The actively foraging Pedioplanis husabensis specialized on a termite diet (71% of all prey, found in 91% of fecal pellets), while the sedentary sit-and-wait foraging R. bradfieldi specialized on ants (87% of all prey, found in 100% of fecal pellets). Pedioplanis husabensis also had a higher active body temperature and often was found on warmer substrates than was R. bradfieldi. Despite occurring in the same habitat, these two lizard species do not occupy the same ecological niche space.
Murray, I.W. & Fuller, A. & Lease, H.M. & Mitchell, D. & Wolf, B.O. & Heten, R.S. (2014) -
The Husab Sand Lizard (Pedioplanis husabensis Berger-Dell’Mour and Mayer, 1989) is a recently described lacertid lizard endemic to a small region in the central Namib Desert. Although this species is of conservation concern, very little is known about how this lizard functions in its environment. We used the doubly labeled water method to measure the field energetics in this lizard species and we report on its foraging behavior. Pedioplanis husabensis had summer field metabolic rates (330 ± 140 J•d−1) that were similar to those of other similarly sized sit-and-wait foraging lizards (360 J•d−1), but only 43% that of an active foraging lizard of the same mass (770 J•d−1), despite using a movement-intensive, active foraging strategy. Additionally, the mean water influx rate (0.06 ± 0.03 mL•d−1) was 67% that of a desert reptile of the same size (0.09 mL•d−1). Active body temperatures were significantly lower in summer (34.3 ± 1.7 °C) than they were in autumn (36.8 ± 1.6 °C), and daily activity of lizards increased from 2.6 ± 0.9 h•d−1 in summer to 4.3 ± 1.9 h•d−1 in autumn. Relative to other species of actively foraging desert lizards, P. husabensis has lower energy requirements.
Murray, I.W. & Lease, H.M. & Hetem, R.S. & Mitchell, D. & Fuller, A. & Woodborne, S. (2016) -
We used stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen to study the trophic niche of two species of insectivorous lizards, the Husab sand lizard Pedioplanis husabensis and Bradfield`s Namib day gecko living sympatrically in the Namib Desert. We measured the δ13C and δ15N ratios in lizard blood tissues with different turnover times (whole blood, red blood cells and plasma) to investigate lizard diet in different seasons. We also measured the δ13C and δ15N ratios in available arthropod prey and plant tissues on the site, to identify the avenues of nutrient movement between lizards and their prey. Through the use of stable isotope mixing models, we found that the two lizard species relied on a largely non-overlapping but seasonally variable array of arthropods: P. husabensis primarily fed on termites, beetles and wasps, while R. bradfieldi fed mainly on ants, wasps and hemipterans. Nutrients originating from C3 plants were proportionally higher for R. bradfieldi than for P. husabensis during autumn and late autumn/early winter, although not summer. Contrary to the few available data estimating the trophic transfer of nutrients in ectotherms in mixed C3 and C4/crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) plant landscapes, we found that our lizard species primarily acquired nutrients that originated from C4/CAM plants. This work adds an important dimension to the general lack of studies using stable isotope analyses to estimate lizard niche partitioning and resource use.
Murthy, T.S.N. (1990) -
Murthy, T.S.N. (2010) -
Murtskhvaladze, M. & Takhnishvili,l D. & Anderson, C. & Kotorashvili, A. (2020) -
Musilova, L. & Kybicova, K. & Fialova, A. & Richtrova, E. & Kulma, M. (2022) -
This study aimed to reveal whether green lizards (Lacerta viridis), common hosts of tick larvae and nymphs, might be involved in the transmission cycle of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in the Czech Republic. Green lizards were sampled in two areas at the Tiché Údolí Nature Reserve (site A: 50.1482 N, 14.3669E; site B: 50.1476 N, 14.3745 E), Central Bohemian Region, Czech Republic. The skin biopsy specimens and attached ticks (if any) were collected from 52 captured lizards. Also, questing ticks from both areas were collected by flagging. The touchdown polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis revealed Borrelia lusitaniae in three lizard tissue samples. Most lizards (19/30, 63%) had at least one Borrelia positive tick. Borrelia lusitaniae formed 92% (34/37) and 59% (17/29) of all borreliae detected in larvae and nymphs, respectively. Borrelia lusitaniae (6/10, 60%) was also the major pathogen in questing nymphs from site B. At site A, 13% (2/16) of questing nymphs were positive for B. lusitaniae. Based on our data, it can be assumed that B. lusitaniae is a common pathogen at lizard sites in the Czech Republic, and further research to prove this hypothesis is therefore highly recommended. As lizards often inhabit urban areas, the data presented may also contribute to raising awareness of the possible spread and risk of Borrelia infection.
Muskhelishvili, T.A. (1967) -
Muskhelishvili, T.A. (1969) -
Muskhelishvili, T.A. (1970) -
Muskheliswili, T.A. (1967) -
Muskheliswili, T.A. (1978) -
Muskheliswili, T.A. & Njegmjedzanov, W.A. (1978) -
Mustafaeva, G.A. & Bunyatova, S.N. & Doronin, I.V. (2019) -
Мустафаева Г.А. & Буньятова С.Н. & Доронин И.В. (2019) -
Musters, K. & Putte, F. van de & Hannewijk, A. (2019) -
Musters, R.J. (1992) -
Canary island lizards are very aggresive animals. h is impossible to keep more than one couple in a terrarium. Kept indoors the lizards arc very shy. Adult animals lose their shyness in an outdoor ter- rarium. If kept together the young animals may fight or even kill each other. My conclusion is to keep the juveniles in separate containers. The fe- males lay about seven eggs in July, and at an incu- bation temperature of 28 to 31o C the eggs hatch after 63 to 68 days.
Mutz, T. (1996) -
Mutz, T. & Donth, S. (1996) -
Mutz, T. & Mutz, M. & Obst, F.-J. (1999) -
Nacher, J. & Ramirez, C. & Molowny, A. & Lopez-Garcia, C. (1996) -
The ontogeny of somatostatin immunoreactive interneurons in the cerebral cortex of the lizard Podarcis hispanica has been studied in histological series of embryos, perinatal specimens, and adults. Somatostatin immunoreactive interneurons appear in the early stages of lizard cerebral cortex ontogeny, their number increases during embryonary development, reaches a peak in early postnatal life, and decreases in adult lizards. The first somatostatin immunoreactive somata in the lizard forebrain appeared on E36, and they were located in non cortical areas. Then, on E39 and later, somatostatin immunoreactive neurons were seen in the lizard cortex in a rostral-to-caudal spatial gradient, which parallels that of the normal histogenesis of the lizard cerebral cortex. On E39, labelled somata were seen in the medial and dorsal cortex inner plexiform layers; immunoreactive puncta and dendritic processes were detectable in the inner plexiform layer of the medial cortex. On E40, labelled neurons were observed in the inner plexiform layer of the lateral cortex; labelled processes were found in the inner plexiform layers (dorsomedial, dorsal, and lateral cortices) and the outer plexiform layers (medial and dorsomedial cortices). At hatching (P0), some somatostatin immunoreactive neurons populated the external plexiform layer of the dorsomedial cortex. On P28, groups of labelled neurons appeared in the cell layer of dorsal and lateral cortices, reaching the adult-mature pattern of somatostatin immunoreactivity in the lizard cerebral cortex, i.e., labelled somata and dendritic processes populating the inner plexiform layers in addition to an axonic labelled plexus in the outermost part of the outer plexiform layers. Immunoreactive somata and processes occupied all the cortical areas, but they were especially abundant in the dorsomedial cortex. Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) immunostaining in the same histological series revealed that the number of PCNA immunoreactive nuclei in the subjacent proliferative neuroepithelium followed an inverse-complementary evolution to somatostatin, suggesting some temporal relationship between somatostatin immunoreactive cells and neurogenesis in the lizard cerebral cortex.
Nadal, J. & Lacort, C. & Roura, M. & Balcells, M. (1979) -
Naeslund Diaz, C. & Bischoff, W. (1994) -
Roque Chico de Salmor (Canary Islands) surveys: 1. possible causes for the extinction of its Gallotia simonyi population; 2. the systematic status of its Tarentola. The vegetation of the rock (close to El Hierro) has declined strongly during the last decades, presumed due to the increasing number of herring gulls (Larus argentatus atlantis); this ecological change is seen as a possible cause for the extinction of its population of Gallotia simonyi STEINDACHNER, 1889. The geckoes of this isolated rock are clearly Tarentola boettgeri hierrensis (JOGER & BISCHOFF, 1983) and not Tarentola delalandii (as presumed anteriorly).
Naeslund Diaz, C. & Bischoff, W. (1998) -
Nafady, A.A.M. & Awadalla, E.A. (2019) -
The aim of this study was to investigate the histological and fine structure of the liver of Acanthodactylus boskianus during the hibernation period, using ten adult specimens captured from sandy areas of Aswan Governorate, Egypt. Specimens of liver were fixed for light and transmission electron microscope to study the hepatic architecture during this period. In addition to haematoxylin and eosin stain, the histochemical and special stains were used. The hepatocytes are arranged in hepatic plates. The radial arrangement of hepatic cords around the central vein is generally not apparent. The several-cell-thick plate type showed with multi-layered of hepatocytes separated by narrow tortuous capillaries networks, sinusoids that are localized in the space between hepatic plates. The hepatic cells of Acanthodactylus boskianus under light and T.E.M. are similar to those of other vertebrates (birds and mammals), except for the presence of melano- macrophages.
Nafady, A.A.M. & E.A. Awadalla (2017) -
The aim of this study was to investigate the histological and fine structure of the liver of Acanthodactylus boskianus during the hibernation period, using ten adult specimens captured from sandy areas of Aswan Governorate, Egypt. Specimens of liver were fixed for light and transmission electron microscope to study the hepatic architecture during this period. In addition to haematoxylin and eosin stain, the histochemical and special stains were used. The hepatocytes are arranged in hepatic plates. The radial arrangement of hepatic cords around the central vein is generally not apparent. The several-cell-thick plate type showed with multi-layered of hepatocytes separated by narrow tortuous capillaries networks, sinusoids that are localized in the space between hepatic plates. The hepatic cells of Acanthodactylus boskianus under light and T.E.M. are similar to those of other vertebrates (birds and mammals), except for the presence of melano-macrophages.
Nagahama, S. (1973) -
Nagai, K. & Saitoh, Y. & Saito, S. & and Tsutsumi, K. (2012) -
Animals possess systems for sensing environmental temperature using temperature-sensitive ion channels called transient receptor potential channels (TRPs). Various TRPs have been identified and characterized in mammals. However, those of ectotherms, such as reptiles, are less well studied. Here, we identify the V subfamily of TRP (TRPV) in two reptile species: Japanese grass lizard (Takydromus tachydromoides) and Japanese four-lined ratsnake (Elaphe quadrivirgata). Phylogenetic analysis of TRPVs indicated that ectothermic reptilian TRPVs are more similar to those of endothermic chicken and mammals, than to other ectotherms, such as frog and fish. Expression analysis of TRPV4 mRNA in the lizard showed that its expression in tissues and organs is specifically controlled in cold environments and hibernation. The mRNA was ubiquitously expressed in seven tissues/organs examined. Both cold-treatment and hibernation lowered TRPV4 expression, but in a tissue/organ-specific manner. Cold-treatment reduced TRPV4 expression in tongue and muscle, while in hibernation it was reduced more widely in brain, tongue, heart, lung, and muscle. Interestingly, however, levels of TRPV4 mRNA in the skin remained unaffected after entering hibernation and cold-treatment, implying that TRPV4 in the skin may act as an environmental temperature sensor throughout the reptilian life cycle, including hibernation. This is the first report, to our knowledge, to describe reptilian TRPV4 in relation to hibernation.
Nagtegaal, J. (1954) -
Nagy, K.A. & Shemanski, D.R. (2009) -
Shovel-snouted sand dune lizards, Meroles anchietae, are reported to include much seed from grasses and fig marigolds in their diets year-round. This diet is quite unusual for a reptile, and invites investigation. We had an opportunity to examine the diet and to measure seed digestibility for M. anchietae living on dunes near Gobabeb, Namibia. Stomach contents taken harmlessly via esophageal cannulation in the field revealed that the average diet included 37% (dry mass basis) immature seeds, 61% arthropods and 2% green plant leaves and flowers. Captive lizards fed measured amounts of whole mature (dehisced) grass seeds, both with and without hulls, were unable to digest and assimilate any significant dry matter from them. Microscopic examination of seeds recovered from stomachs along with seed remains found in fresh fecal pellets from free-living M. anchietae indicated that most of the “seeds” apparently were soft, moist, somewhat green and immature when eaten, and may be better termed “ovules”. This food, perhaps eaten directly from the flowers of the plant, would be much more digestible and nutritious than mature, dry, shed (dehisced) seeds. We suggest that the seed-eating behavior of M. anchietae might be better described as herbivory than as granivory.
Nagy, Z.Y. & Kusamba, C. & Collet, M. & Gvoždík, V. (2013) -
Data deficiency in tropical regions is still a major problem in herpetofaunistic research. During the last few years we conducted several field expeditions to Central Africa, including the Congo Basin. In 2012 we visited four sites in the westernmost part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These included the Mangroves National Park in the region of the Congo River estuary as well as the Mayombe region characterized by low mountains covered by rainforest, all north of the Congo River, and an additional site south of the Congo River with savannah habitats. Remarkably, no recent herpetological research was done in this part of the country. We surveyed a wide spectrum of habitats including mangroves, savannah, forests, village surroundings and agricultural sites. Approximately 22 species (or representatives of species complexes) of amphibian and 23 species of reptile have been recorded.
Naia, M. & Sowb, A.S. & Camposa, J. & El Abidine Sidatt, Z. & Brito, J.C. (2021) -
Philochortus zolii is a globally endangered lizard known only from five localities scattered across North Africa. The population is thought to be decreasing, but there are almost no data about this Sahara-Sahel endemic lizard. Recently, a sixth population was found in Mauritania, at the coastal peripheral zone of the Diawling National Park, which constitutes a remarkable opportunity to gather ecological information for the first time and to plan conservation actions. Here we assess the P. zolii regional distribution in Mauritania, estimate population abundance, analyse the species activity patterns, characterise the occupied habitats, assess local threats, evaluate the national conservation status, and define an action plan for the local conservation of the species. P. zolii is locally rare and exhibits a much-localised distribution, but additional sampling is needed in other humid areas to fill out the knowledge gap on global distribution. The activity period is very restricted, limited to the central hours of the day, with low detectability and high specialisation in habitat use. The species is evaluated as Critically Endangered at the national level and is threatened by industrial and agriculture developments. These activities have degraded the suitable available habitats and hamper any dispersal possibility. Extreme climatic events related with sea-level rise could decimate the entire Mauritanian population. Any pet trade that may be stimulated by the current discovery should be carefully supervised and monitored. The discovery of this isolated population justifies that coastal habitats should be designated as integral protection zone and included inside the Diawling National Park.
Naish, D. (2009) -
Najafov, J.A. & Hashimov, R.T. (2019) -
60 species of reptiles live in the Azerbaijan Republic. From them 17 species, or 28.3% are spread on Absheron Peninsula. These species belong to 3 orders, 13 families, 22 genera. Lizards are reptiles belonging to the order Squamata. On Absheron peninsula lizards inhabit a wide variety of biotopes, from garden habitats to sand dunes. Most species of Absheron are diurnal, but Caspian bent-toed geckos comprise a night time fauna in many habitats. Many species, can shed their tails in order to escape from predators. Lizards have many morphological adaptations that suit them to the substrates they inhabit, from specialized toe-pads in vertical rock-face dwellers to fringed-toes in loose-sand runners. Modern scientific study of lizards in Absheron began with the field natural history studies of E.P. Menetriem and E.E. Eichwald in the 19th century.
Najbar, B (2011) -
Nakamoto, M. (1993) -
Nakamura, K. (1931) -
Nakamura, K. (1935) -
Names, G. & Martin, M. & Badiane, A. & Galliard, J.F. le (2019) -
Communication via color signals is common in natural systems. Ultraviolet (UV)-blue patches located on the outer-ventral scales of some lacertid lizards are thought to be involved in male-male competition. However, the mechanisms that maintain their honesty remain unknown. Here, we use the common wall lizard Podarcis muralis to test whether the lateral UV-blue spots are conventional signals, the honesty of which is guaranteed by receiver-dependent costs, and discuss their potential role as an amplifier of body size. We first described the morphology and reflectance properties of lateral UV-blue spots in common wall lizards and investigated how they influence male-male competition. Spot size and number, UV chroma, and conspicuousness (calculated using vision models) were significantly greater in adult males relative to adult females and adult males relative to juveniles. Total spot area (and not spot number) of adult males was positively correlated with body size. We conducted staged competition encounters between focal males and smaller or larger rivals with control or manipulated spots. Spots were enlarged in small rivals and reduced in large rivals to disrupt the phenotypic correlation between spot area and body size. Aggressiveness and dominance were positively influenced by body size in control encounters. Spot manipulations resulted in greater submission and less aggressiveness in focal males. These results contradict the predictions associated with conventional signals and amplifiers, but suggest that spots contributed to opponent evaluation during short-distance encounters between competing males.
Nania, D. & Lumbierres, M. & Ficetola, G.F. & Falaschi, M. & Pacifici, M. & Rondinini, C. (2022) -
Planning conservation actions requires detailed information on species’ geographic distribution. Species distribution data are most needed in areas hosting unique or endangered biodiversity. Italy is one of the European countries with the highest levels of herpetological diversity and endemism and is home to several threatened species of amphibians and reptiles. Information on the distribution of species’ habitats can help identify sites where the species is most likely to thrive, as viable populations depend on it. Area of Habitat (AOH) maps reveal the distribution of the habitat available to the species within their geographic range. We produced high resolution, freely accessible global area of habitat maps for 60 species of reptiles and amphibians distributed in Italy, which represent 60% of all Italian amphibian and reptile species. We validated a total of 44 AOH maps through a presence-only based evaluation method, with 86% of these maps showing a performance better than expected by chance. AOH maps can be used as a reference for conservation planning, as well as to investigate macroecological patterns of Italian herpetofauna. Furthermore, AOH maps can help monitoring habitat loss, which is known to be a major threat to many reptile and amphibian species in Europe.
Naniev, V.I. (1978) -
Naranjo, J.J. & Nogales, M. & Quilis, V. (1991) -
Nardelli, A. & Iversen, D. & Tabarelli de Fatis, K. (2016) -
Nardelli, A. & Iversen, D. & Tabarelli de Fatos, K. & Bombieri, G. & Corradi, L. & Bin, S. & Pederzoli, A. & Toscano, Y. & Zotto, M. dal (2019) -
Nardelli, A. & Iversen, D. & Tabarelli de Fatos, K. & Bombieri, G. & Corradi, L. & Bin, S. & Pederzoli, A. & Toscano, Y. & Zotto, M. dal (2021) -
Alien species constitute a serious threat to biodiversity, also contributing to reduce the ecological resilience of ecosystems to global climate changes. The Italian wall lizard Podarcis siculus Rafinesque-Schmaltz, 1810 (Sauria: Lacertidae) is the only species in the genus Podarcis that can be considered as a true alien pest, since it has established reproductive populations on three different continents, seeming capable of adapting to a variety of habitats, temperature ranges and food sources, also competing with native lizard species. P. siculus, even though endemic to most of the Italian peninsula, was observed for the first time around Lake Garda (northern Italy) during 2016: in the municipality of Arco (Province of Trento), in the touristic area of Limone sul Garda (Brescia), in three garden centres in Padenghe sul Garda (Brescia), Peschiera and Castelnuovo del Garda and in Valeggio sul Mincio (Verona), inside the historical garden park “Sigurtà”. We have confirmed the presence of P. siculus after decades on Trimelone islet (Verona) as well, and in other localities in the pre alpine hilly area surrounding the southern edges of Lake Garda, which clearly affects their climate conditions. We used phylogenetic analyses to confirm the exotic origin of most of these populations, which derive from specimens imported throughout aged olive trees trading activities. Multiple separated colonization events occurred, since in at least two sites different genetic clades, imported from various localities of central and southern Italy, can be found thriving together. This brought to hybridization that has probably offset the negative consequences of low genetic diversity typically occurring in newly established animal populations. Aged olive trees perfectly host P. siculus acting as a Trojan horse for the colonization of new environments, representing an all-in-one microhabitat, where lizards can find food and basking sites, lay eggs and survive to cold climate conditions during winter. Aged olive trees are frequently sold to private citizens for ornamental purposes and, to this regard, garden centres act as stepping stones for a rapid and unpredictable lizard invasion, which could affect a large portion of northern Italy, firstly south of the 46th parallel. The presence of P. siculus exotic lineages brings forward major considerations on their impact on native P. s. campestris and P. muralis populations occurring in the same area. Extreme adaptations that we observed in the field, the role of olive trees and other allochthonous entities in favouring lizard survival, and the effect of alien P. siculus on habitat meridionalization around Lake Garda are discussed.
Nardi, G. & Spada, L. (2023) -
A case of predation on an adult Podarcis muralis by Mantis religiosa religiosa in Italy, is here recorded. Published records related to predatory activity of this mantis on saurians are summarized, and the possible cause of such an unusual behaviour is discussed.
Nardin, C. & G. Nardin (2010) -
Nascetti, G. & Capula, M. & Capanna, E. & Bullini, L. (1981) -
Nascetti, G. & Capula, M. & Lanza, B. & Bullini, L. (1983) -
Nasrabadi, R. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Khani, A. (2016) -
The reptile`s fauna of Sabzevar was investigated during 10 years (2003-2013). In total 42 species belonging to 29 genera, 13 families and two orders (Squamata and Testudines) were collected and identified. The most diverse group in the area is lizards with 23 species, followed by snakes with 18 species and the testudines with one species. The most diverse families are Colubridae, Lacertidae with 8 and Gekkonidae with 5 species respectively, followed by Agamidae with 4 species, Viperidae, Boidae and Scincidae with 3 species each, Lamrophiidae and Spherodactylidae with 2 species and 4 families Elapidae, Thyphlopidae, Varanidae and Testudonidae with only one species each.
Nasri, I. & Belliura, J. & Hammouda, A. & Hamza, F. & Selmi, S. (2016) -
Body temperature has a major influence on the biochemical, physiological and behavioural processes and the overall survival of ectotherms. When a habitat is altered as a result of natural or anthropogenic influences, the available temperatures in the habitat can change, thus affecting an animal’s ability to thermoregulate. Changes in thermal regulation in lizards as a result of pollution have never been investigated. Here, we studied thermoregulation in response to pollution in a population of Bosk’s fringe-toed lizards Acanthodactylus boskianus, a common lacertid in the coastal area of the gulf of Gabès in southern Tunisia. Our approach was based on the comparison between lizards living close to a factory complex with those living 20 km faraway. Lizards were tested in a thermal gradient under laboratory conditions to determine preferred body temperature, patch selection for basking, and heating and cooling rates. Body temperature of A. boskianus in the field was 36.6 ± 0.38 °C (mean ± SE), with no significant difference between sites. However, the preferred body temperature was higher for lizards at the polluted area compared to the ones at the non- polluted sites. Moreover, lizard living in the polluted area heated faster, and cooled slower, and they also spent significantly more time basking at the warmer patch. Overall, our results suggest that A. boskianus produces a fever as a response to contamination. The possible consequences of such a response on growth, size, reproduction, susceptibility to predation and other fitness parameters need to be investigated.
Nasri, I. & Hammouda, A. & Belliure, J. & Selmi, S. (2020) -
Metrics detailsLizards increasingly are recognized as suitable contaminant biomonitors in terrestrial ecosystems. Previously, we have shown that Bosk’s fringe-toed lizards (Acanthodactylus boskianus) living close to the Gabès-Ghannouche industrial complex for fertilizer and acid production in southern Tunisia were contaminated by heavy metals. However, the impact of this contamination on lizard health parameters has not been investigated. In this study, we used the phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) skin-swelling test to assess whether the proximity to the industrial complex was associated with notable changes in lizard cell-mediated immune response (CMI). Our results showed significantly lower CMI in lizards living close to the industrial complex compared to those occurring farther away in a similar coastal habitat. Overall, our findings are consistent with the idea of immunotoxic effects of metal contamination. They also stress the usefulness of the PHA approach as an efficient tool for the evaluation of contaminant-related immunosuppression in lizards.
Nasri, I. & Hammouda, A. & Belliure, J. & Selmi, S. (2022) -
As an indicator of physiological state of lizards, thermoregulatory behavior has been proposed as an assessment tool of environmental contamination, particularly in desert ecosystems where lizards represent a major biological component. Although pesticide contamination has been shown to induce behavioral fever in lizards, the possible pyrogenic effect of heavy metals has received less attention. The objective of this study was to provide data on this issue by using Bosk’s fringe-toed lizards (Acanthodactylus boskianus) living in a metal-contaminated industrial area in south-eastern Tunisia as a study model. Combining field observations of behavior with measures of thermoregulatory performance under laboratory conditions, we found that proximity to the industrial zone was associated to a different thermoregulatory behavior of lizards. There was a tendency of lizards living close to the contamination source to display behavioral fever, as they spent more time in the sun, preferred higher body temperatures, and warmed up faster, compared to lizards living far away. This heat-seeking behavior is likely a reaction to improve the functioning of physiological systems involved in the defense against toxic effects of heavy metals, possibly through the increase of metabolic rate, stimulation of enzymes involved in the detoxification process, and enhancement of immune defense systems. Our findings stress the need for further detailed studies into the physiological mechanisms linking metal contamination to behavioral fever. They also underline the usefulness of thermoregulatory behavior as a reliable, non-destructive, and inexpensive, individual-level biomarker in lizard ecotoxicology and biomonitoring of contaminated desert environments.
Nasri, I. & Hammouda, A. & Hamza, F. & Selmi, S. (2015) -
Investigating how patterns of sexual size dimorphism vary among local populations may be useful for understanding size evolution in lizards. We investigated patterns of sexual size dimorphism in a Tunisian population of Bosk`s fringe-toed lizards Acanthodactylus boskianus asper, in relation to a Middle-eastern population of the same subspecies. Our results showed an overall male-biased size dimorphism, consistent with general sexual size dimorphism trends in lacertids, and provide support for both the fecundity advantage hypothesis and the intra-sexual selection hypothesis. Indeed, for similarly-sized heads, females had longer trunks than males, and for similarly-sized trunks, males showed larger heads than females. Using the discriminant function approach, we investigated whether the power of discrimination between sexes varied when morphometric measures were expressed relative to head length vs. trunk length. We found that the two methods agreed in the classification of individuals as males or females, although the discrimination power was slightly higher when data were expressed relative to head length. Our results also showed that when using trunk length-adjusted data the power of discriminating the sexes was higher when the analysis was restricted to the largest individuals, which gives support to the idea that for morphological investigations small subsamples of the largest individuals should be used. Overall, the results of our work support the conclusions of a recent study on sexual size dimorphism in a Middle-eastern population of the same subspecies, suggesting that patterns of sexual size dimorphism are geographically stable in this widely distributed subspecies.
Nasri, I. & Hammouda, A. & Hamza, F. & Zrig, A. & Selmi, S. (2017) -
We investigated the accumulation of heavy metals in Bosk’s fringe-toed lizards (Acanthodactylus boskianus) living in Gabès region (southeastern Tunisia), in relation to habitat, diet, and distance from the Gabès-Ghannouche factory complex of phosphate treatment. More specifically, we compared the concentrations of cadmium, lead, and zinc in the stomach contents and samples of the liver, kidney, and tail from lizards living in four sites corresponding to different combinations of habitat (coastal dunes vs backshore) and distance from the factory complex (<500 vs 20 km). Examination of stomach contents showed that lizards living on the coastal dunes mainly feed on littoral amphipods, while those living in the backshore feed exclusively on terrestrial invertebrates. The concentrations of heavy metals in lizard tissues were overall positively correlated with those in the preys they ingested. Moreover, there was a general tendency towards increased concentrations of cadmium, lead, and zinc in the samples from lizards living on coastal dunes compared to those from the other sites, although some differences still lacked statistical significance. These results suggest that the highest contamination of lizards living on coastal dunes was probably related to the ingestion of contaminated amphipods. Thus, amphipods and Bosk’s fringe-toed lizards seem to provide an important link between the marine and terrestrial food webs, with higher concentrations appearing to accumulate from materials released into the sea rather than the terrestrial environment. With regard to metal distribution among tissues, our results were overall in agreement with previous findings in other reptiles. In particular, cadmium was most concentrated in the liver samples, stressing once more the role of the liver as a storage organ of Cd. Moreover, high concentrations of the three assessed metals were found in the kidney samples, showing the role of the kidney as an active site of heavy metal accumulation.
Nasri, I. & Hammouda, A. & Selmi, S. (2018) -
The knowledge of the diet of animals in their natural environment is a prerequisite for understanding their biology and ecology. Thus the aim of this study was to describe the diet of the Bosk’s Fringe-toed lizards Acanthodactylus boskianus, one of the most common lizards in the coastal habitats in Gabès region (southern Tunisia). In this area, this lizard species occurs in coastal dunes as well as in inland sandy habitats. So, we wished to compare the diversity of preys consumed by this lizard in both habitats: beach vs. backshore. Analysis of the stomach contents of 47 lizards showed a diet composed of various invertebrates, but that varied among habitats. In particular, we found that lizards living in sandy beaches included in their diets littoral preys, mostly Talitres (amphipods). Overall, our results confirm the alimentary opportunism of A. boskianus. They also emphasize the role of interface between the marine and terrestrial food chains played by this lizard species in the coastal ecosystems of the Gulf of Gabès. This last observation suggests that this lizard could also play a possible role in the transfer of pollutants (mainly heavy metals) discharged into the sea by the Gabès-Ghannouche industries of phosphate treatment from the sea to the terrestrial environment.
Nasri, I. & Hamza, F. & Belliure, J. & Selmi, S. (2017) -
Many lizard species show ontogenetic changes in tail colour that are coupled with changes in the antipredatory strategy. However, the ecological factors that influence the relationships between age, tail colour and antipredatory strategy remain poorly understood. In this work, we investigated how antipredatory behaviours vary according to age in Bosk’s fringe-toed lizard (Acanthodactylus boskianus), a species that shows ontogenetic changes in tail colour. First, we verified whether tail conspicuousness increases the probability of predatory attacks, by using two types of plasticine models made to mimic juveniles (red-tailed models) and adults (beige-tailed models) and distributed in a study plot where an avian predator is abundant. We found that juvenile-like red tails were more frequently attacked by predators than the less conspicuous adult-like ones. We also conducted predation simulation experiments on active lizards of different ages and compared their risk-taking and escape behaviours. Adults occurred close to potential refuges (i.e. bushes), while juveniles were more commonly observed in open microhabitats. When approached by the observer, adults rarely conducted tail displays and usually fled in a non-stop way to penetrate inside the nearest bush. However, juveniles conducted tail displays and never fled directly inside a bush. They usually stopped near the target bush and tolerated a closer approach from the observer before making the decision to take refuge inside the bush. It seems that juveniles feared the attacks of adults and avoided entering bushes occupied by adults. Repeated observations of adults acting aggressively towards juveniles provide support for this hypothesis. Overall, our findings highlight the role of tail conspicuousness in the diversion of predatory attacks from the vital parts of the body in the juveniles of Bosk’s fringe-toed lizard. They also suggest that agonistic interactions between adults and juveniles play important roles in shaping their antipredatory behaviour.
Nasri, I. & Selmi, S. (2017) -
Anthropogenic pressures have been increasing in the past decades in Gabès region, due to the installation of the Gabès-Ghannouche factory complex of phosphate treatment for fertilizer and acid production in the early 1970s. This pollution has affected wildlife at all levels of biological organization, from the molecular to the ecosystem levels.
Nassar, F. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. (2020) -
We studied the female reproductive cycle of a population of Ophisops elegans lizard from the herpetology collection of the Natural History Museum of the Lebanese University. Females collected during spring and summer showed vitellogenesis in their ovaries with oviposition occurring from May to July followed by a subsequent quiescent period. They produced up to two clutches. Mean clutch size was 3.2 ± 1, range 2-5 eggs. Clutch size was independent of female body size. The smallest female attaining sexual maturity had a snout vent length of 45 mm. Sexual maturity can be attained within one year of age. We found no significant difference in body size between female and male adult lizards. Seasonal variations in the reproductive activity of females were well synchronized with those of males.
Nassar, F. & Sadek, R. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. (2016) -
Nassar, F. & Sadek, R. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. (2017) -
We studied the male reproductive cycle in a population of Ophisops elegans from Mount Sannine, Lebanon, by histological analysis. Testicular histology showed active spermatogenesis in spring, followed by a testicular regression at the end of summer and a subsequent recrudescence in autumn. Monthly variations in the epididymis, the ductus deferens and the sexual segment of the kidney were in synchrony with the testicular cycle. They were hypertrophied as spermatogenetic activity increased and atrophied as spermatogenetic activity decreased. Males of O. elegans showed a vernal type of spermatogenesis with a close relationship between the evolution of the seminiferous tubules and the secondary sexual characters.
Nature Midi Pyreneés (2010) -
Naturschutzbund NABU (2009) -
Naturschutzbund NABU (2011) -
Naulleau, G. (1980) -
Naulleau, G. (1990) -
Naulleau, G. (1997) -
Nazarov, R. & Rajabizadeh, M. & Heidari, N. & Faizi, H. (2011) -
Nazarov, R.A. & Poyarlov, N.A. & Orlova, V.F. & Bondarenko, D.A. & Nabizadeh, H. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2021) -
Necas, P. & Modrý, D. & Zavadil, V. (1997) -
Nechaeva, M.V. & Zhdanova, N.P. & Turpaev, T.M. (2003) -
Neghme, C. & Santamaria, L. & Calvino-Cancela, M. (2017) -
The accelerating rate of vertebrate extinctions and population declines threatens to disrupt important ecological interactions, altering key ecosystem processes such as animal seed dispersal. The study of highly specialized mutualistic interactions is crucial to predict the consequences of population declines and extinctions. Islands offer unique opportunities to study highly specialized interactions, as they often have naturally depauperated faunas and are experiencing high rates of human-driven extinctions. In this study, we assess the effect of seed dispersal on seedling recruitment of Ephedra fragilis (Ephedraceae) on a Mediterranean island ecosystem. We used field data and stochastic simulation modeling to estimate seed fate and recruitment patterns of this pioneer shrub typical of arid and semiarid areas, and to estimate the dependence of recruitment on the lizard Podarcis lilfordi (Lacertidae), its only known seed disperser. Ephedra fragilis recruitment highly depended on lizards: lizards produced 3.8 times more newly-emerged seedlings than non-dispersed seeds and no seedlings from undispersed seeds survived the study period. Seed dispersal by lizards was mostly to open sites, which was key for the increased success observed, while undispersed seeds, falling under mother plants, suffered higher predation and lower seedling emergence and survival. The ability of this pioneer shrub to get established in open ground is crucial for vegetation colonization and restoration, especially on degraded lands affected by desertification, where they act as nurse plants for other species. Lizards are key in this process, which has important consequences for community structure and ecosystem functioning.
Nehring, E. (1880) -
Nekrasova, O.D: & Oskyrko, O.S. & Marushchak, O.Y. (2018) -
Nekrasova, O.D. (2018) -
We used GIS modeling (DIVA-GIS, Maxent) to simulate the potential distribution of Zootoca vivipara. For modeling, we used a database including information from our studies and literature, comprising 190 points of lizard samples (including 7 points for melanistic lizards). It can be concluded that the distribution of Z. vivipara in Ukraine depends on the following environmental variables related to solar radiation and precipitation: “Radiation of wettest quarter” (BIO24; 34.2%), “Precipitation of driest week” (BIO14; 18.1%), “Lowest weekly radiation” (BIO22; 15.7%) and “Mean diurnal temperature range” (BIO2; 12.8%). For habitats where melanistic lizards were found, “Mean moisture index of coldest quarter” (BIO35; 18.9%) was also significant in addition to BIO24 (50.4%) and BIO22 (17.3%).
Nekrasova, O.D. & Kostiushyn, V.A. (2016) -
In the autumn of 2015 current distribution of the lizards of Darevskia (saxicola) complex, introduced in 1960s in Zhytomyr administrative region of Ukraine was studied. During the period from introduction until now Darevskia (saxicola) complex has spread along the left bank of the Teteriv River on the territory about 3.7 km lengths. Beside this was found an isolated population of this species, which located about at 4 km direct distance or 8.5 km shore line distance from the main area of occurring this species. It is supposed that this secondary introduction took place occasionally or intentionally due to holidaymakers (e. g. climbers, fishermen). The publication provides description of the lizards on 15 morphological characteristics and information on the results of spatial modeling potential distribution the rock lizards.
Nekrasova, O.D. & Kuibida, V.V. & Oskyrko, O.S. & Dubyna, A.D. (2018) -
The article consideres information about spread of green lizard (Lacerta viridis) in the Dnieper ecological corridor, Ukraine. As a result of studies conducted in 2010–2016, there were collected and analyzed data on biotopic affinity, spatial distribution, number and features of the morphology of the Green lizard in Dnieper ecological corridor. Lizards are not distributed evenly, forming several local groups: 1. Kiev (Koncha-Zaspa — Ukrainka); 2. Trakhtemirov peninsula and the Kanev mountains (Trakhtemirivska and Kanivsvska); 3. Cherkasy-Svitlovodska; 4. SurskoKamyanska (Dnipropetrovsk region); 5. Nizhniodniprovska (Zaporizhzhya and Dnepropetrovsk regions particularly). It was found that L. viridis is a rare species with a pronounced tendency to decrease number and needs special protection. The most favorable habitat for the species is the locality with presence of rocky outcrops, hilly areas and shrubby forest vegetation or slopes, covered with herbaceous vegetation. We conducted a detailed analysis of variation of folidosis scutes and found that differences between males and females are expressed in body and tail length.
Nekrasova, O.D. & Oskyrko, O.S. & Marushchak, O.Y. (2018) -
The article describes the study of distribution and morphological features of diff erent morphotypes of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) of the Kyiv Region. To sum up, 5 morphotypes of L. a. chersonensis were found in the Kyiv Region: bilinear (61.9 %); intermediate form (intermediate version) (17.3 %); trilinear (3.2 %); var. erythro-(viridi-)nota (16.2 %); and the rarest var. con-(bi-)color (1.4 %). According to the morphological features’ varieties erythro-(viridi-)nota lizards differ mostly from all other morphs (Na/Lor)(2/1 — 44.4 %), in the 15–17 rows 18(14–23) scales. They are most often found in forest biotopes. The remaining bi- and trilinears are characterized by Na/Lor (1/1 — 50.9 %), in the 15–17 rows 9.5 (6–13) scales.
Nelson, B. (2003) -
Nembrini, M. & Oppliger, A. (2003) -
In natural populations the mating success of males depends on different factors. By enhancing the intensity of secondary sexual characters, testosterone can play a role in mate choice. However, paradoxically, testosterone can also decrease immunocompetence and thus potentially diminish attractiveness. To estimate the influence of testosterone on male mating success in the wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, we characterized nine polymorphic microsatellite loci. There were three to 12 alleles per locus in the five to 16 individuals screened. These microsatellites will also be useful in determining population structure in this species.
Nemenz, H. (1958) -
Nemes, S. (2001) -
Nemes, S. (2002) -
At the beginning of its yearly activity period Lacerta agilis behaves as an ambush foraging lizard. Propor- tion of attacks on prey discovered while lizards are moving (PAM), movement per minute (MPM) and percent of time spent moving (PTM) are low. A correlation was found between MPM and PTM. There are no significant differences between PTM and MPM among sexes or age categories. Prey search locomotion is rarely used and is discontinuous when it occurs. Pause duration has a positive correlation with move- ment length. Lizards counterbalance long movements with longer pauses in order to increase the probabil- ity of prey detection and capture. Contrary to other ambush foraging lizards, Lacerta agilis frequently tongue flicks, probably in order to detect and identify prey animals.
DISTRIBUTION OF COLOUR MORPHS OF THE SANDLIZARD IN ROMANIA Lncertn ngilis is a medium sized (up ro 90 mm snour-venr lengrh and 220 mm roral lengrh, 20g) oviparous, insectivorous heliorhermic lizard, which is widely spread over Europe from England in rhe west ro Russia in the cast and from Sweden in rhe norrh ro France in rhe sourh. The sand lizard,Law·tnngilisisdistribureel rhroughourmost of Romania, and ir is nor considered rhrearened (COGA LN ICEANU & VENCZEL 1993). FUHN & VANCEA (I964) described rhree sub- species, rhe nominorypic race from Transylvania, L. n chersonensis from Molciavia and Walachia, L. n. euxinicn from the sand spits of rhe Danube Delra and rhe Black Sea seashore. The sand lizard is polymorphic, exhibiring a wide range of colour morphs. FUHN (1967) and BORCEA (1975) described·four colour parrerns beside rhe rypical green (males) or brown (females) colorarion wirh dark brown - black srripes: -`eryrhronorus` colour morphs (reddish back) -`viridinorus` colour morphs (complerely green -`immaculare` colour morphs (with brownish back) -`vert±uniform` colour morphs (green back with f.1ded dark brown stripe). Data on the distribution ofcolour morphs in sand lizards were garhered in rwo years` time (1999, 2000) in 21 localities in Transylvania. The above presenred FUHN and BORCEA descriptions stand at the base of rhe present note. These colour patterns are nor equally disrriburcd, r h e a b u n d a n c e a n d t h e d i s t r i b u t i o n o f t h e d i f fe r e n t colour parrerns varying according to the geogra- phical areas (table 1). The statement of FUHN & VANCEA (1961) and BORCEA (1975), that rhe nominotypic race shows lower diversiry in colour patterns than L. rz chersonemis is confirmed by rhe present study. No `viridinotus` mutants were found in Transylvania, `irnmaculara` and `verr±uniform` muranrs appeared also rare (one respectively four individuals among 269), though `eryrhronotus` mutants were somewhat more fre- quent. Therc is a widely accepred idea rhat in Anguisfi`flgilis, rhc frequency ofblue-spotted colour patterns increascs from west to cast (TERH IVUO 1990, CA PULA et al 1997). Distribution of colou r patterns in sand lizards does nor seem to respect rhis west-easr trend. The typical colour patterns are more frequent in Molciavia than in Walachia or Transylvania. Furrhermore, VOGRIN (1999) observed rhat `eryrhronorus` mutants made up 28% ofsand li7A1rds from norrl1-easrern Slovenia, a percentage rhat is higher than in Romania. The distriburion and abundance ofdifferent colour pat- terns in sand lizards rnay vary among different geographical races. lsolarion and interbreeding may cause rhe appearance of abnormal colour pat- terns, such as a complerely black sand lizard found by STRIJBOSCH & VERHOEVEN (1997).
Nemes, S. (2003) -
The time budget of free ranging sand lizards was observed during the early spring of 2000 in the meadows of Sf. Gheorghe, Romania. Basking is the predominant behaviour of lizards, accounting for more than 90% of adults` time budget, and for more than 75% of juveniles` time budget. Comparisons drawn between adult and juvenile lizards showed no significant difference in time spent resting and moving. Adults and juveniles differed only in time spent basking, presumably due to the difference in their body sizes. Both adults and juveniles spent all of their time in the neighbourhood of bushes, shifting between sunny and shadowed microhabitats. Time spent basking showed low interindividual variation, while time spent in shadow varied considerably between specimens.
Nemes, S. & Vogrin, M. & Hartel, T. & Ollerer, K. (2006) -
Ontogenetic shifts at lizards’ microhabitat selection were studied using sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) as model organism. Field observations evidenced that sightings of hatchling lizards followed the distribution of microhabitat categories while yearlings and adults showed a more active perch selection. However, multivariate analysis evidenced active selection at all age categories. Genuine ontogenetic shifts in habitat selection were recorded with most outstanding differences between hatchlings and yearlings. Lizards’ perching sites were significantly more homogenous than randomly selected control spots. Microhabitat characteristics measured at adults and yearlings were similar and differed significantly from those measured in the case of hatchlings. Multivariate analyses offered more detailed picture about lizards habitat use and proved to be more sensitive than the traditional goodness-of-fit tests.
Nemes, V. & Serac, C. & Capony, A. & Klok, W. (2011) -
Nemitz-Kliemchen, M. & Andres, C. & Hofmann, S. & Ramirez, A.M.P. & Stoev, P. & Tzankov, N. & Schaffer, S. & Bernhard, D. & Henle, K. & Schlegel, M. (2020) -
Numerous studies showed that habitat fragmentation can affect the constitution of species by impairing living conditions, impeding gene flow and thereby reducing genetic variability. However, populations of the same species may react less sensitive to fragmentation in the core than in the periphery of its distribution range. In the core they are assumed to be more euryoecious compared to the periphery, where they are assumed to be stenoecious with lower genetic diversity and higher genetic differentiation. We tested this hypothesis by comparing the genetic variability of 215 individuals of ten populations of Lacerta viridis from fragmented habitats within its distribution center in Bulgaria using genotype data of 19 microsatellite loci. We could not detect significant alteration of genetic variation, regardless of patch size and isolation by distance, indicating that fragmentation indeed did not had a strong impact on L. viridis in the core area of its historical and recent distribution range. We cannot rule out that the time elapsed since habitat fragmentation occurred was too short to yield a genetic response. However, in a similar study on L. agilis, which is stenoecious in Bulgaria, all genetic diversity indices declined with patch size. This provides indications that fragmentation at present does not have a strong effect on the genetic variation of Bulgarian L. viridis populations.
Nering Bögel, T.L. (1982) -
Nering-Bögel, T. & Mudde, P. (1984) -
A. nigropunctatus was kept succesfully with one pair per cage, fed regularly, always an opportunity to drink, enough calcium and vitamines and kept with a shorter daylength in winter. Some of the sexual behavior is described. Females were observed to be sexually active. Eggs were laid in clusters of four in most cases observed. Juveniles, left in the cage with their parents were not raised succesfully. Those raised separately did well on all kinds of food, even cannefd catfood.
Nerutschev, W.W. & Kosyreva, O.A. & Nakarenok, E.H. (1989) -
Nessing, R. (1989) -
Nessing, R. (2011) -
Drei Vorkommen der Zauneidechse Lacerta agilis ioriensis bei Tianeti, Region Mzcheta-Mtianeti; Georgien, wurden auf ihre Habitatmerkmale, wie Vegetation, Stratifikation, Bodenbeschaffenheit, Bodensubstrat, Neigungswinkel und Exposition hin untersucht. Die größten anthropogenen Gefährdungen gehen derzeit von der Verunreinigung der Lebensräume mit Hausmüll und Bauschutt aus. Streunende Hauskatzen stellen ebenfalls eine große Gefahr für die seltene Lacerta agilis ioriensis dar. Notwendige Schutzmaßnahmen, wie Vermeidung weiterer Abfallverbringungen und Abfallbesreitigung, sowie Aufklärung und Information der heimischen Bevölkerung über die Seltenheit dieser Unteratrt werden aufgezeigt.
Nessing, R. (2016) -
Einst individuenstarke Populationen von Darevskia rudis chechenica wurden in Georgien (Mtskheta-Mtianeti) durch intensive Straßenbaumaßnahmen vernichtet.
Nessing, R. (2023) -
The infestation of an Artwin lizard of the subspecies Darevskia derjugini barani with larvae of the common woodbuck Ixodes ricinus in Georgia is documented.
Nesterov, P.W. (1912) -
Nettmann, H.-K. (1995) -
Nettmann, H.-K. (2001) -
Nettmann, H.-K. & Rykena, S. (1974) -
Hybridization between Lacerta t. trili~eata and Lacerta v. viridis in captivity is described. 16 hybrids hatched in June 1974. The difficulties of mating between the two species and the color and pattern of the hybrid specimens are described.
Nettmann, H.-K. & Dülge, R. & Hielen, B. & Rahmel, U. & Schnauder, C. (1992) -
The Herpetofauna of the Mountain ridge of Central and Southern Greece has been somewhat neglected compared to the island fauna. Especially the vertical distribution of species is scarcely documented, perhaps due to the poor accessi- bility of these parts of Greece. Only recently the Greek mountains have come in focus of herpetologists, mainly induced by questions about the distribution of vipers. Green lizards {Lacerta s. str.) are a well defined group, in which the different species need different thermal conditions for egg incubation, which results in different northern distributionboundaries (RYKENA 1987). Southern boundaries and vertical distributions have been discussed by some authors (B6HME 1978, 1989, NETTMANN & RYKENA 1984a, 1984b, RYKENA 1987, SCHMIDTLER 1986), but.detailed studies are still rare. As L. agilis was recently detected in Central Greece (NiLSON & ANDREN 1987), this region appeared to be appropriate to analyse the vertical distribution pattern of three green lizard species. The results of a preliminarystudy are presented here.
Nettmann, H.-K. & Rykena, S. (1984) -
Nettmann, H.K. (2016) -
The use of pictures from the internet as data source for more better distribution maps is demonstrated. Based on pictures within the database www.lacerta.de and using the only known field character “greenish throat colour in hatchlings” first records of Lacerta bilineata in Carintia (Austria) can be stated. And it is shown, that this character is obviously also useful to distinguish the L. bilineata of the “West Balkan clade” (W. Böhme et al. 2007) and L. viridis in the lowlands of Thessalia (Greece). These findings should motivate intensified field herping activities and in case of green lizards more pictures of hatchlings instead of large blue throated males.
Nettmann, H.K. & Elbing, K. & Bruckner, M. & Klein, B. et al. (1998) -
Neumann, C. (2011) -
Neumann, C. (2013) -
Neumann, C. (2015) -
Die Grünbrücke über die A1/A48 beim Autobahnkreuz Wittlich wurde als vorgezogene Kompensationsmaßnahme für die zu erwartende Zerschneidung und Lebensraumzerstörung durch den Bau der Bundesstraße B50 neu errichtet. Im Raghmen einer Wirksamkeitskontrolle wurde im Jahr 2011 die auf der Grünbrücke ansässige Mauereidecvhsenpopulation untersucht. Die Fragestellung dieser Untersuchung war, ob die Grünbrücke zur Habitatvernetzung oder sogar als Lebensraum der streng geschützten Masuereidechse geeignet ist. Die Grünbrücke hat sich dabei als optimales Sekundärhabitat für die Art herausgestellt. Um eine möglichst hohe Vielfalt an Mikrohabitaten auf der Grünbrücke zu schaffen, wurde der Boden der Brücke nicht, wie normalerweise üblich, eingeebnet und bietet daher den Eidechsen und anderen Kleintieren wichtige Mikrostrukturen. Die Irritationsschutzwände haben sich als beliebte Sonn-/Aufwärmplätze hrausgestellt, die den Eidechsen außerdem Schutz vor Prädatoren bieten. Der Spurstreifen aus Sand, der zum Auslesen von Wildspuren angelegt wurde, wird als Eiablageplatz genutzt. Anhand von Fang/Wiederfang wurde eine Populationsgröße von ca. 90 Mauereidechsen auf der ˜0,25 ha großen Grünbrücke errechnet. Die Hälfte der Population scheint ortsgebunden zu sein, die andere ortsungebunden. Die Ergebnisse der Wirksamkeitsuntersuchung lassen darauf schließen, dass die Grünbrücke nicht nur geeignet ist Mauereidechsenhabitate zu vernetzen, sondern die Grünbrücke selbst kann ein bevorugtes Habitat sein.
Neumann, O. (1900) -
Neumann, O. (1905) -
Neves, B. & Rund, D. & Pinho, C.J. & Vasconcelos, R. & Bustamantes, P. & Quillfeldt, P. (2022) -
The Madeiran wall lizard Teira dugesii is a relatively new species to the Azores Archipelago, where it was accidentally introduced about 150 to 200 years ago. This lacertid quickly became naturalised and now occurs in all the nine main islands of the Azores. At Praia Islet, off Graciosa Island, the Madeiran wall lizard was recently observed preying on chicks of the threatened Monteiro’s storm-petrel Hydrobates monteiroi. To characterise the lizards’ trophic niche, we conducted a study of the diet of the Madeiran wall lizard at Praia using stable isotope analysis and next-generation sequencing. Our results indicate that the Madeiran wall lizard has a varied diet, consisting of at least 23 invertebrate taxa, 17 plant species, and occasionally, birds (two species detected, including storm-petrels). Marine derived food items were present in few samples, and it is vital to monitor the trophic interactions at Praia Islet to ensure the conservation of this threatened storm-petrel.
Neves, V.C. & Nava, C. & Monteiro, E.V. & Monteiro, P.R. & Bried, J. (2017) -
Monteiro`s Storm-petrel (Hydrobates monteiroi) is a small seabird endemic to the Azores archipelago, where it is known to breed only on two mammal-free islets. Total breeding numbers are between 250 and 300 pairs. During the 2015 breeding season on Praia Islet, six Madeiran wall lizards (Lacerta dugesii) were observed depredating a Monteiro`s Storm-petrel chick about to fledge. In August 2015, a freshly killed chick without its head and four larger dead chicks were found. Eight other chicks had disappeared from their nests since our previous visit in early July. In 2016, there was further evidence of suspected lizard depredation. Three chicks were found predated and dragged out of their nests, and an additional 22 chicks disappeared from their nests before fledging. In 2016, Monteiro`s Storm-petrel breeding success was only 26.8%, the lowest ever recorded. We suspect that some of the chick deaths and nest failures may be attributed to these introduced lizards. All chicks were found dragged out of their nests, a behavior that is not consistent with kills from aerial predators. Lizards were suspected because they are the only possible predator on land. Therefore, we recommend evaluating the impact of Madeiran wall lizards on the two Monteiro`s Storm-petrel main colonies: Praia and Baixo Islets.
Nevo, E. & Gorman, G. & Soulé, M. & Suh Yung Yang & Clover, R.C. & V. Jovanović (1972) -
Competetive exclusion between Lacerta sicula and L. melisellensis characterizes the small islands of the Adriatic Sea. In 1958 and 1959 M. Radovanovié introduced Lacerta sicula or Lacerta melisellensis onto islands exclusively occupied by the other species. During the summer of 1971 follow-up observations were made on three of these islands, two of which completely lacked representatives of the introduced species. On the third island, the introduced species appears to be replacing the native form. Minor habitat differences permit coexistence, however the situation is dynamic and probably not at equilibrium. A reciprocal introduction involving the two species on the islands of Pod Kopite and Pod Mraru is announced.
Neymark, L.A. (2021) -
Ngoc, H.V. & Anh, P.V. (2019) -
As a result of recent field surveys in 2013 and 2018 we herein report the herpetofaunal list of Thai Nguyen Province, comprising 26 species of amphibians (19 genera, seven families, two order) and 72 species of reptiles (51 genera, 20 families, two order). Of which, 17 are threatened species, including eight species listed in the Governmental Decree No. 32/2006/ND-CP, 14 species listed in the Vietnam Red Data Book (2007), seven species listed in the IUCN Red List (2018), and one species listed in the Governmental Decree No. 160/2013/ND-CP. 11 of them, Megophrys major, Occidozyga lima, Odorrana cf. bacboensis, Polypedates mutus, Gehyra mutilata, Lygosoma quadrupes, Varanus salvator, Dendrelaphis pictus, Hebius boulengeri, Xenochrophis trianguligerus, and Sinomicrurus macclellandi are recorded for the first time from this province.
Ngọc, H.V. & Anh, P.V. (2019) -
Qua 12 đợt khảo sát thực địa ở các xã thuộc huyện Võ Nhai tỉnh Thái Nguyên từ tháng 8/2013 đến tháng 4/2018 trong Nghị Định 32/2006/NĐ-CP của Chính phủ, 14 loài có tên trong Sách đỏ Việt Nam (2007), 7 loài có tên trong Danh lục Đỏ IUCN (2018) và 1 loài có tên trong Nghị định 160/2013/NĐ-CP của Chính phủ. Đáng chú ý có một số loài lần đầu tiên ghi nhận vùng phân bố mới cho tỉnh này như: Megophrys major, Occidozyga lima, Odorrana cf. bacboensis, Polypedates mutus, Gehyra mutilata, Lygosoma quadrupes, Varanus salvator, Dendrelaphis pictus, Hebius boulengeri, Xenochrophis trianguligerus và Sinomicrurus macclellandi.
Nguyen, T.Q. (2017) -
Based on a new herpetological collection from Ha Giang Province, Vietnam we report seven new records of amphibians and reptiles, comprising two species of Rhacophoridae (Rhacophorus kio, R. rhodopus), one species of Agamidae (Pseudocalotes brevipes), one species of Lacertidae (Takydromus kuehnei), one species of Colubridae (Lycodon futsingensis) and two species of Viperidae (Deinagkistrodon acutus, Protobothrops maolanensis). Our findings bring the species number of amphibians and reptiles recoded from Ha Giang Province to 110.
Niazi, A.D. (1976) -
The present work reports on Lacerta viridia atrigata Eichwald and L. princeps Blanf., from Iraq along with detailed notes on their natural . history, coloration as well as their taxonomy. Characters ot taxonomic importance are pointed out and a key to the available species of the Iraqi Lacerta is provided. Important evoiut!onary tendencies of certain taxonomic features are pointed out with some evolutionary notes related to the subject. The publlcation of Hass and Werner (1969) is critically discussed in relation to the present work.
Nicholson, A. & Spellerberg, I.F. (1989) -
During a three-year period of research on the lizard Lacerta agilis , observations on activity and home range area were obtained for two seasons. It was found that L. agilis had overlapping home ranges. The home range area of L. agilis was found to be smaller than would be predicted from studies on the relationship between the size of various lizard species and home range areas.
Nicholson, A.M. (1980) -
Nickel, H. (2002) -
Nicola, M.R. di & Cavagioli, L. & Luiselli, L. & Andreone, F. (2021) -
Nicola, M.R. di & Mezzadri, S. & Bruni, G. & Ambrogio, A. & Mariacher, A. & Zabbia, T. (2021) -
Nicolai, B. (2020) -
The author reports on the food and the analysis of faecal pellets of Gallotia atlantica on Fuerteventura (Canary Islands, Spain). The results show that this lizard is omnivorous, but feeds predominantly on insects. It uses a wide range of food, especially Diptera, Coleoptera and Hymenoptera (Formicidae), and adapts quickly to natural changes in food resources. After rainfall and the emergency of new growing vegetation, insect laevae (especially caterpillars) are increasingly eaten by the lizards. Finally, in one of the faecal samples little bones and scales were found and revealed a case of cannibalism in this species.
Nicolas, J. & POeyre, O. & Benhamou, S. & Cheylan, M. (2017) -
Nicolau, G.K. & Jackson, E.A. & Jordaan, A. & Alexander, G.J. (2022) -
Nicolosi, P. & Pievani, T. & Valenti, S. & Canadelli, E. & Bernardi, M. & Lanzinger, M. & Casiraghi, M. & Galimberti, A. & Pala, R. & Tessa, G. & Andreone, F. (2019) -
“Extinction. An exhibition, a genetic data base and a survey on collections of extinct or endangered vertebrates located in Italian Natural History Museums” originated in 2014 as a joint project of the University of Padua, the Museo Regionale di Scienze Naturali of Turin (MRSN), the MUSE - Science Museum of Trento, and FEM2-Ambiente s.r.l. (University of Milan-Bicocca). The project idea was based on the collaboration between different institutions (universities, museums of local authorities, university spin-off), in order to start a catalogue of specimens and species of vertebrates under threat of extinction and housed in the collections of Italian natural history museums, with the aim of conducting genetic research on preserved specimens and enhancing its conservationist importance. This was possible thanks to the contribution of the Ministry of Education, University and Research, which allowed to: i) activate the census of the collections; ii) support the investigations on the DNA of a critically endangered species, the Aeolian lizard Podarcis raffonei; iii) carry out three ostensive activities dedicated to the extinction phenomena of vertebrates, carried out at the MUSE in Trento, at the Biodiversity Garden of Padua University and in Turin in spaces of Regione Piemonte
Nie, Y. & Wang, Z. & Yu, S. & Liu, Y. & Zhang, L. & Liu, R. & Zhou, Z. & Zhu, W. & Diao, J. (2022) -
Chemical pollution and global warming are two major threats to organisms, which can interact to affect the normal activities of living beings. In this study, to explore the effects of abamectin and high temperature on adaptability of lizard, male adult Eremias argus (a native Chinese lizard) were exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of abamectin (0.02 mg·L−1 and 2 mg·L−1) and different temperature (26 °C and 32 °C) for 30 days. The fitness-related behaviors (locomotion, predation, and thermoregulation) of lizards were evaluated. Physiological effects were addressed using biochemical biomarkers related to oxidative stress, detoxification, and neurotransmitter content. The results showed that abamectin could affect the neurotransmitter systems, cause oxidative stress, and alters lizard locomotion and predation-related behaviors of lizards, but lizards up-regulating detoxification metabolic enzymes, exhibiting higher body temperature preference to alleviate the toxicity of abamectin, and compensate the increased energy demand for detoxification and repair damage by increasing food intake. After exposure to high temperature, lizards showed adaptation to high temperature (higher body temperature preference), the thermal compensation mechanisms may involve elevated Hsp70 levels and increased food intake. At the combined effects of abamectin and high temperature, more obvious behavioral disorders and more severe oxidative stress were observed, although lizards avoided the negative effects of overheating and pollutants by seeking thermal shelter and reducing energy expenditure, this may subsequently reduce foraging opportunities and the ability to obtain energy needed for vital physiological functions (i.e., growth, maintenance, and reproduction). From a long-term perspective, these short-term adaptive strategies will be detrimental to individual long-term survival and population sustainability, and may transformed into maladaptation.
Nie, Y. & Wang, Z. & Yu, S. & Zhang, L. & Liu, R. & Liu, Y. & Zhu, W. & Zhou, Z. & Diao, J. (2023) -
Life-history theory suggests that organisms must distribute a limited share of their energetic resources among competing life-history trait demands. Therefore, the trade-off strategies individuals develop for particular life-history traits in a given environment may profoundly impact their environmental adaptability. In this study, lizards (Eremias. argus) were exposed to single and combined atrazine (4.0 mg·kg−1 and 20.0 mg·kg−1) and different temperatures (25 °C and 30 °C) for 8 weeks during the breeding season. The effects of atrazine and warming on the adaptability of lizards were explored by examining changes in trade-offs via several key life history traits (i.e., reproduction, self-maintenance, energy reserves, and locomotion). The results show that after atrazine exposure at 25 °C, both female and male lizards tended to allocate energy to self-maintenance by reducing energy allocation to reproductive process. The lower energy reserves of males are considered a “risky” life-history strategy and the observed higher mortality may be related to atrazine-induced oxidative damage. The retention of energy reserves by females not only ensured their current survival but also facilitated survival and reproduction in subsequent stages, which can be regarded as a “conservative” strategy. However, under high temperature and/or combined atrazine exposure, the “risky” strategy of males caused them to consume more energy reserves to invest in self-maintenance, which ensured their immediate survival, and profited from more rapid degradation of atrazine. In contrast, the “conservative” strategy of females could not meet their higher reproductive and self-maintenance demands under high temperatures, and the elevated reproductive oxidative and metabolic costs led to individual mortality. Gender differences in life-history trade-off strategies can directly lead to “winners” and “losers” from environmental stress within a species.
Niebergall, P. (2008) -
Niebergall, P. (2012) -
Nieden, F. (1910) -
Nieden, F. (1913) -
Niedringhaus, R. (1997) -
Im Rahmen einer Begleituntersuchung für ein Renaturierungsvorhaben wurden von 1989- 94 in einem 8 km2 großen Agrarraum in Nordwestdeutschland die 4 Amphibienarten Grasfrosch, Teichfrosch, Erdkröte und Teichmolch registriert. Die 3 erstgenannten Arten sind im Gebiet trotz des begrenzten Laichplatzangebotes und der z.T. starken Gewässereutrophierung in größeren, überlebensfähigen Populationen präsent, der Teichmolch hingegen nur noch vereinzelt. An Reptilien wurde lediglich die Waldeidechse nachgewiesen, von der an zwei Stellen kleinere Populationen existieren.
Niedrist, A. (2018) -
Niedrist, A. & Kaufmann, P. & Tribsch, A. & Berninger, U.-G. & Leeb, C. & Maletzky, A. (2020) -
While the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) is not native to the Austrian province of Salzburg, an allochthonous population became known in 2008 at a railway station in the northern lowlands of the province. Two further populations were discovered in 2014 and 2015 along the railway network in the city of Salzburg as well as at a railway station in the alpine valley area near Schwarzach. This study addresses questions on the overall distribution of the species in the province of Salzburg, the origin of intro-duced populations, habitat suitability and potential future dispersal of the species. Since all hitherto known populations of the common wall lizard have been located along the railroad network and transportation of cargo is one of the main dispersal vec-tors of this species, 38 locations along the railroad network of Salzburg have been sur-veyed. Seven of those 38 locations were occupied by wall lizards. In addition, buccal swabs were taken and sequenced from 48 individuals at seven sites. DNA-Barcoding using mitochondrial DNA was used to determine the genetic clades. With regards to potentially suitable habitat structures for wall lizards, all locations were examined in detail, while those currently unoccupied were also classified in potentially favourable and unfavourable habitats with the help of a habitat suitability scheme to predict future potential dispersal of the species. Individuals originating from four different genetic clades could be identified, suggesting introduction from several European locations. The sampled wall lizards from Schwöll, Steindorf, Elsbethen and Schwarzach refer to the Southern Alps clade (Podarcis m. maculiventris-West), while populations in the city of Salzburg additionally comprise individuals with haplotypes from the western and eastern France clades (both Podarcis m. brogniardii), as well as the central Balkans clade (Podarcis m. muralis). While some introduction pathways seem clear because of trans-portation of cargo from the geographical source regions, for the city of Salzburg the idea of a singular, secondary introduction of individuals of all four genetic clades ap-pears more likely, because this area was populated only recently. Therefore, the wall lizards, which were introduced to the province of Salzburg, might be hybrids of differ-ent genetic lineages from all over Europe. The fact that since the end of the study three further areas in the province of Salzburg have been populated by Podarcis muralis, shows how dynamic the system is at the moment.
Niehuis, M. & Sound, P. (1996) -
Niekisch, M. & Pastors J. (1983) -
Nielsen, B. (1961) -
Nielsen, B. (1962) -
The chemical regulation of respiration in various species of reptiles has earlier been studied by Siefert (1896), Babak (1914a, b), v. Saalfeld (1934), Vos (1936), Boelaert (1941,1942), Randal, Stullken & Hiestand (1944), and B. Nielsen (1961). A survey of the literature was given by Vos (1936). The present work deals with the effect of different concentrations of O2 in the inspiratory air on respiration of lizards. Further, the combined action of CO2 and different O2 percentages has been studied. Two species of lizard, Lacerta viridis and Tarentola mauretanica served as experimental animals.
Nieminen, M. & Saarikivi, J. (2008) -
Herpetofaunal (amphibians and reptiles) survey of the Olkiluoto island in western Finland was conducted in 2008. Two species of reptiles, the common lizard and the adder, and two species of amphibians, the common frog and the smooth newt, were found during the survey. All four species breed in Olkiluoto. Small mammals were trapped on 18 sites with 216 traps (144 mouse traps and 72 rat traps) in a monitoring in 2008. Totally 146 individuals of six species were captured. The most abundant species was bank vole. A hay field and several forest types harboured high numbers of individuals. Monitoring should be continued at least every second year to obtain a reliable picture of changes in population sizes.
Nienhuis jr., J. (1943) -
Niesel, J. (2008) -
Nietzke, G. (1975) -
Nieuwenhuizen, J. (2000) -
Nieves Casañas, M. & Santos, E. & Yanes, C. & Romero-Alemán, M.M. & Viñoly, R. & Alfayate, M.C. & Monzón-Mayor, M. (2011) -
Nigg, A. (1993) -
Die vorliegende Untersuchung stellt eine erste gründliche Bestandesaufnahme der liechtensteinischen Reptilienbestände dar. Von April bis September 1988 wurden durch Feldbegehungen, Befragung der Bevölkerung und Auswertung bereits vorhandener Daten möglichst umfassende Kenntnisse erworben und in den folgenden Monaten ausgewertet. Erstmals konnte im Fürstentum Liechtenstein die Mauereidechse (Podaräs muralis) nachgewiesen werden, die in Triesen ausgesetzt wurde und dort eine stabile Population begründete. Des weiteren konnten, abgestuft nach Häufigkeit, folgende Reptilienarten festgestellt werden: Zauneidechse (Lace/ta agilis), Bergeidechse (Lacerta vivipara), Blindschleiche (Anguis jragilis), Barrenringelnatter (Natrix natrix helvetica), Kreuzotter (Vipera berus) und Schlingnatter (Coronella austriaca). Zwei ältere Beobachtungen von ausgesetzten Schildkröten (Emys orbicularis und Mauremys caspica) konnten nicht bestätigt werden. Die vorliegenden Resultate liefern erste Erkenntnisse zur horizontalen und vertikalen Verbreitung, zu Exposition und Front, Neigung, Fundort und Biotop und zur Bedrohung der Arten. Aufgrund dieser Erfahrungen wurde eine Rote Liste der Arten erstellt. Von den sechs einheimischen Arten konnten lediglich die Bergeidechse (in den Berglagen) und die Blindschleiche als vorläufig nicht bedroht eingestuft werden. Die Zauneidechse, die Kreuzotter und die Barrenringelnatter gelten als gefahrdet. Stark gefahrdet ist die Schlingnatter, von der nirgends grössere Populationen festgestellt werden konnten. Die Kreuzotter ist in der Revision des Naturschutzgesetzes unter die geschützten Arten zu setzen. Abschliessend folgt eine Zusammenstellung der aus der Sicht des Reptilienschutzes wertvollen Gebiete im Fürstentum Liechtenstein mit Vorschlägen zu deren Erhaltung und Pflege.
Niimi, T. (1965) -
Two exampls of double-tailed lizards, Takydromus tachydromoides SCHLEGEL and Anolis c. carolinensis, were examined. The Takydromus possessed a normally regenerated tail laterally, and an abnormally regenerated tail ventrally. X-ray photography showed the 38th vertebra bent ventrally at an angle of 90. Both the vertebra and the core of the ventral tail stained red with Mall`s Arizalin red-S, indicating that the core was formed of cartilage, or chondrin, or cartilagious tissue. This tail is presumed to have arisen from a broken bone. The regenerated tail of the Anolis was normal, without any Vertebrae.
Niimi, T. (1969) -
A morphological study on the monstered tail of two species of Lacertilia was done with X-ray photograph and Mall`s alizalin red-S staining method. One of them, Gekko japonicus, has a forked tail, and the other one, Takydromus tachydromoides, has a triple tail. The former`s regenerated tail develops at the level of the left transverse process of the 50th vertebra. It shows normal feature in structure. The latter`s primary regenerated tail develops at the caudal part of the 33rd vertebra and the secondary re- generated tail develops at the middle part of the primary regenerated tail. It seems to be constituted with cartilage or chondrin. These specimen were collected in Aichi Prefecture.
Nijman, V. (1996) -
This report provides an overview of the results of research on the genetic variability of the sand lizard Lacerta agilis in the Netherlands. The research was conducted during the years 1993- 1995 at the Institute of Systematics and Population Biology, University of Amsterdam. Nondestructive tissue sampling was performed on a total of 83 individuals from 8 sites (6 coastal dune areas and two heather areas in the south-east of the country). Electrophorisis showed variation in 23 enzymes, the average heterozygosity per individual was between 0.041 and 0.049. This is comparable with values found within other species in the genus Lacerta, and there is no reason to assume that the sampled populations have experienced serious genetic bottlenecks in the recent past. Nei’s index of genetic similarity between populations were calculated from the allele frequencies. It ranged from 0.96 to 0.99, meaning that populations are only slightly differentiated. The calculated level of genetic exchange between populations were consistent with the small level of differentiation. However, reduction in gene flow can be a recent process and therefore it might not have had a measurable influence on the genetic population structure yet. RAPD’s (random amplified polymorphic DNA) were used in order to measure the level of variation in the genome. At the DNA level populations are more differentiated than they are at the protein level. Within the dune population there is a significant correlation between geographical distance between populations and the level of gene flow. This suggests a normal meta-population structure. A cluster analysis on the similarity indicies divides the sampled population in three groups, the partition of which is, in general, correlated with the time at which it is hypothesised that the populations were geographically separated. In conclusion, there is no reason to assume that the sampled populations have a reduced level of genetic variation. Fragmentation within the dunes has not yet resulted in a strong differentiation of the different subpopulations. A number of barriers are presumably not effective enough to reduce the level of gene flow. In general, barriers between populations are of a recent origin and have not yet resulted in measurable changes in the genetic population structure. The main recommendations for the long term survival of sand lizards in the Netherlands are a) management should be focused on a local growth of sand lizard populations by optimising the available habitat and reducing internal isolation, b) an increase in isolation of populations should be prevented and the possibility for migration between populations should be increased, and c) further research should be focused on small isolated populations to get a better insight in the effects of fragmentation and isolation.
Nikishin, V.P. & Skorobrechova, E.M. (2018) -
The purpose of the research: to study the cell response of non-natural paratenic host and encapsulation process of acanthocephalan Corynosoma strumosum in experiment for further comparison with encapsulation mechanism of this acanthocephalan in natural paratenic host. Materials and methods. Experiments were carried out on 24 lizards Lacerta agilis and one L. viridis. 17 encapsulated acanthocephalans were received from 13 of them. Acanthocephalans with capsules were prepared for electron microscopic analysis according to standard methods and examined in light (semithin sections) and under electron (in ultrathin sections) microscopes. Semithin sections were stained with methylene blue or a mixture of methylene blue and crystal violet. Ultrathin sections were stained with lead citrate. All capsules received in the experiment were investigated with the use of the light microscope; 1,5 and 10 day capsules were examined under electron microscope. Results and discussion. All acanthocephalans studied in this paper including those discovered one and half day after the start of experiment were enclosed in the thick cellular capsule with prevailing mononuclear and multinuclear macrophages. Single electron-dense inclusions of regular rounded shape surrounded by hallo of moderately dense material were found in approximately half of both types of nuclei. Nature of inclusions remained unknown. In the interpretation of results, it is necessary to take into account: (1) the presence of these inclusions in macrophage nuclei only; (2) their strictly ordinary positioning in the nucleus; (3) strictly spherical shape; (4) very high electronic density of their material, that exceeds the density of the nucleolus and chromatin; (5) presence of halo; (6) absence of visible pathological signs in nuclei and cell`s cytoplasm where these inclusions had been found. Their appearance is supposed to be connected with the overactivity of lizard macrophages caused by invasion of a parasitic worm.
Nikolaev, O.D. & Belova, D.A. & Novikov, B.A. & Simis, I.B. & Petrosyan, R.K. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Komarova, V.A. & Galoyan, E.A. (2022) -
Some aspects of thermal biology were considered in three species of the lizard genus Darevskia: the parthenogenetic Darevskia armeniaca and D. unisexualis, and their parental bisexual species Darevskia valentini. The main objective of the present research was to compare the thermal biology of these species in a mixed population. Material was captured at four localities in Armenia: Kuchak, Dilijan, Mets Sepasar, and Artavaz in summer 2007, 2013, 2016, and 2018, respectively. Their snout-vent length and cloacal body temperature, as well as air and substrate temperatures were measured. The following differences in the thermal biology of the study species were revealed: D. unisexualis had a relatively low activity temperature range (T = 22.0–32.8°C, vs. 25.6–35.6°C for D. armeniaca or 25.3–35.4°C for D. valentini). The body temperatures of different species were found to correlate differently with both the air temperature and the substrate temperature under the conditions of their coexistence at Kuchak.
Nikolajczukova, K. (2019) -
This bachelor thesis is focused on the population of the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) occuring in Strejckuv Quarry near Grygov. In Czech Republic, the species is known from only four localities. The main objectives are search of available sources, which brings morphology data of Europe populations and to carry out my own morphometric research of the population. The research took place in the locality of Strejčkův Quarry in Grygov in years 2018 – 2019. As a result, 36 individuals were captured (22 males, 9 females and 5 juveniles). The average SVL of males was 58.86mm and 56.56mm for females. The SVL of juveniles ranged 29 – 41mm.
Nikolic, B. & Josic, P. & Buric, D. & Tkalec, D. & Lisicic, D. & & Blazevic, A. & Hranilovic, D. (2019) -
In the eastern Adriatic, Podarcis siculus, an invasive species, competitively excludes the native Podarcis melisellensis. Monoamine neurotransmitters—serotonin (5HT), dopamine (DA), and noradrenaline (NA)—are implicated in social behavior, and could lie at the basis of the direct behavioral interference of P. siculus with P. melisellensis. To understand the relationship between social behavior and monoamines, as well as the differences in behavior between P. siculus and P. melisellensis, we developed a high-performance liquid chromatography (UV/VIS detection) method with which we were able to reliably measure concentrations of 5HT, DA, and NA in 32 brains of the two lizard species. We observed no statistically significant influence of species, sex, or their interaction on brain NA and 5HT concentrations. Statistically significant influence of species on dopamine levels were recorded, with P. siculus having twice as much dopamine in their brains. Taking into account that a significant aggressive relationship, with P. siculus dominating over P. melisellensis, has been previously observed, and that dopamine directly influences this behavior, the observed differences in dopamine levels could represent a trait in these species and may contribute to the competitive exclusion of P. melisellensis by P. siculus in the eastern Adriatic.
Nikolic, B. & Josic, P. & Buric, D. & Tkalec, D. & Lisicic, D. & Hranilovic, D. & Blazevic, A. (2018) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1886) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1891) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1896) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1897) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1898) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1899) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1907) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1910) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1911) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1914) -
Nikolsky, A.M. (1915) -
Nikoulouzou, E. & Pafilis, P. & Foufopoulos, J. & Tsitsiloni, R. & Valakos, E.D. (2008) -
The consequences of fragmentation may have severe effects on the survival of isolated populations. The importance of this phenomenon is of a major importance in conservation biology and has initiated new disciplines such as conservation physiology and immunoecology. Insularity provides an excellent system for the study of fragmentation. Island`s features, such as area and age, have been reported to exert a direct impact on organisms: genetic diversity is positively correlated with island area but negatively correlated with island age and exactly the same pattern stands for the efficiency of immune system, since the last is depended directly on genetic variation. We worked in a system three islands of Central Aegean that differ in age and area: Naxos, a large (430 km2) and old island (16.350 y.a.), Kopries, a small, young islet (0.3 km2, 4.200 y.a.) and Daskalio, a tiny (0.01 km2) and very young (1.500 y.a.) islet. Genetic variation in these populations is described by the following relenence: Naxos > Daskalio > Kopries. Using this study model, we tried to assess the impact of fragentation on the immune system of Aegean wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii). We expected that reduced genetic variation in small and old islands would impair immune response increasing thus the susceptibility to infections by parasites. We used exclusively adult males in order to eliminate the impact of female particularities (oviposition, gravidity). Infection was made artificially using the hemoparasite Hepatozoon sp., which is a natural parasite of P. erhardii. We have to mention that this parasite comes from another taxon (P. cretensis), that considers as sister species to P. erhardii. We quantified parasite burden through light microscopy in blood smears every 4 days for two weeks. Parasite load was considerably lower in the case of Naxos, suggesting that lizards from this population are able to resist parasite infection. The reverse results were obtained from Kopries where infection was realized easily and quickly whereas the population from Daskalio shows an intermediate response. We believe that our findings could be attributed to the restricted genetic variation of Kopries, due to the small size and the age of the island. Hence island`s features seem to shape immune efficiency as result of decreased genetic diversity.
Nilson, G. (2009) -
Nilson, G. & Ananjeva, N. & Orlov, N. & Papenfuss, T. & Bafti, S.S. & Anderson, S.C. (2009) -
Nilson, G. & Andrén, C. (1987) -
The sandlizard, Lacerta agilis, is reported from two places in Greece, north of the village Scaloti, prefecture Drama andin the somhern Pindos moumains (Lakmos mountains) in cemral Greece.
Nilson, G. & Andren, C.. (1981) -
Seventeen species of reptiles and one species of amphibians have so far been reported from the Kavir Protected Region in the Kavir desert of Iran. These are Agamura per- sica, Agama a. agilis, Phrynocephalus scutellatus, Phrynocephalus maculatus, Varanus griseus caspius, Eremias andersoni, Eremias persica, Mesalina guttulata watsonana, Eumeces schneiderii princeps, Ophiomorus nuchalis, Coluber k. karelini, Coluber rho- dorhachis ladacensis, Psammophis schokari, Spalerosophis diadema schirazianus, Echis carinatus, Pseudocerastes p. persicus and Bufo kavirensis. A species of Uromastyx, probably U. asmussi, is also registrated from the area. Agama b. blanfordi, Phryno- cephalus helioscopus persicus and Ophisops e. elegans are reported from areas south and west of the Kavir Protected Region but might as weil occur inside it. Some taxo- nomic questions are discussed and data concerning habits and distribution are presented.
Nilson, G. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Andrén, C. (2003) -
During our long-term fieldwork on the Iranian plateau in 2000 and 2002, we collected and examined a series of lacertid lizards, belonging to the genus Lacerta from various parts of the Zagros Mountains of western and southwestern Iran, from a morphological point of view. Based on the collected material, two new taxa are described: Lacerta yassujica sp.n. and Lacerta brandtii esfahanica ssp.n. Based on all the available evidence, L. yassujica is closely related to Lacerta (Apathya) cappadocica. A short account on taxonomy and biogeography of the studied taxa is given.
Ninni, A.P. (1886) -
Nisa Ramito, C. & Rodriguez-Ruiz, G. & López, P. & Silva Jr., P.I. da & Trefaut Rodrigues, M. & Martin, J. (2019) -
Chemical communication plays an essential role in several social and reproductive behaviors of many animals. In lizards, the main sources of semiochemicals are femoral or pre‐anal gland secretions and feces. In male lizards Psammodromus algirus, there are age‐related differences in the chemical composition of femoral gland secretions and in the reproductive strategies, with older males defending territories and females, while younger males adopting sneak‐mating strategies. Females flee more often from mating advances of young males than from those of old males, which are more successful in obtaining matings. This suggests that age discrimination of males may be important for females. We tested here whether females showed differential chemosensory responses to chemical cues (femoral gland secretion and feces) of males of two age classes, and whether females use information from substrate scent marks of males of different ages to select where to stay. We found that females elicited more tongue‐flicks to the secretion and feces of old males than to control or secretion and feces of young males. Also, the time spent by females on a scented paper depended on the treatment, suggesting that females tended to spend more time on scent marks made with femoral secretions of old males. Adult females seemed capable to discriminate between young and old males based on chemical cues alone and showed more interest in scents of old males. However, substrate scent marks did not seem to entirely determine site selection by females, suggesting that females might need additional cues to perform the choice. These results can be explained by the different age‐dependent reproductive strategies of males, which can affect differentially to females.
Nisi Cerioni, P. & Giovannotti, M. & Slimani, T. & S`Khifa, A. & Splendiani, A. & Fioravanti, T. & Caputo Barucchi, V. & Olmo, E. (2024) -
Lacertid and amphisbaenian lizards are two squamate reptile lineages very divergent morphologically. In fact, adaptation to burrowing deeply modified amphisbaenian worm-like body. Lacertids instead have a typical reptile morphology with a long tail and four well-developed limbs. Despite so different in appearance, they are evolutionarily very close as evidenced by molecular phylogenetic approaches. Consistently, a slow-evolving satellite DNA (IMO-TaqI) described in lacertid lizards was isolated from the genome of the amphisbaenian Trogonophis wiegmanni too. Comparison with lacertid repeats evidenced great similarity, highlighting that molecular characters appeared very suitable especially when morphology is subjected to strong selective pressures.
Niskanen, M. & Oksanen, T.A. & Mappes, T. (2006) -
Nistri, A. (2010) -
The birth and development of the herpetology collection of theMuseo di Storia Naturale of the University of Florence are described. Early specimens, mainly turtles’ shells, date from the eighteenth century and are no longer found in the museum. At present the collection includes about 26,500 amphibians and 40,000 reptiles; it mostly increased at the end of 1800, due to Enrico Hillyer Giglioli’s work, and in the second part of the twentieth century, as a result of the studies of Benedetto Lanza and his colleagues. The most important specimens of the typical material are also mentioned.
Nkosi, W.T. & Heideman, N.J.L. & Wyk, J.H. van (2004) -
Pedioplanis burchelli is a small oviparous lacertid lizard that inhabits rocky montane areas in the highveld grassland biome of South Africa. We studied its reproductive cycle by monthly monitoring of gravimetric, morphometric, and histological changes of the reproductive system of males and females throughout 1999. Reproduction took place in spring/summer, and gonadal activity of males and females was well synchronized and prenuptial. Photoperiod was the best predictor of seasonal fluctuations in testes mass and rainfall in the case of ovarian seasonality. Neither vitellogenic follicle count nor oviducal egg count were correlated with snout–vent length. Sexual size dimorphism with respect to certain body parts is explained either in terms of sexual selection, differential growth, or intraspecific food niche segregation. The absence of a significant difference in incidence in damaged tails between males and females may be indicative of similar levels of predation pressure.
NLWKN (2011) -
Noblet, J.F. (1983) -
Noblet, J.F. (1984) -
Nobre, A.P. (1930) -
Nobre, A.P. (1942) -
Nodeland, A. (2013) -
I studied the foraging strategy in a generalist raptor, the Eurasian kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), in a year with low populations of Microtus voles and bank vole (Myodes glareolus). By video filming prey delivered at the nest, and simultaneously observing the prey allocation behavior outside the nest. The most common prey types delivered at the five nests studied were the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), followed by birds, voles (Microtus and Myodes), and shrews (Soricidae). I found that the probability that the kestrel returned with items of the same prey type repeatedly differed between prey types, and also depended on weather conditions. The common lizard was more likely to be delivered repeatedly with higher ambient temperature, while shrews were more likely to be delivered repeatedly with lower temperature. For birds no weather variable had an effect, and almost all avian prey delivered repeatedly were nestlings or newly fledged young. This could indicate that a central place foraging kestrel adopts a win-stay strategy, concentrating on prey types with high availability at specific weather conditions. I found that the female was more likely to show aggression towards the male when he delivered the prey directly at the nest than when he delivered the prey to the female outside the nest. Jeg undersøkte hvordan fødesøket hos en generalist blandt rovfuglene, tårnfalken (Falco tinnunculus) var i et år med lav populasjon av Microtus og klatremus (Myodes glareolus). Dette gjorde jeg ved å videofilme byttedyr levert på redet, samtidig som jeg observerte atferden når byttet ble overlevert fra hann til hunn. Det vanligste byttedyret levert på de fem studerte reirene var nordfirfisle (Zootoca vivipara), fulgt av fugler, stumpmus (Microtus og Myodes) og spissmus (Soricidae). Jeg fant ut at sannsynligheten for at tårnfalken leverte samme type byttedyr etter hverandre var forskjellig mellom type byttedyr, og var avhengig av været. Det var mer sannsynlig at firfisle ble levert flere ganger etter hverandre hvis det var høy temperatur, og mer sannsynlig at flere spissmus ble levert etter hverandre ved lav temperatur. For fugler ga ikke værvariabler noen effekt, og fugler som ble levert flere ganger etter hverandre var som regel reirunger, eller unger som nylig hadde forlatt redet. Dette kan tyde på at en tårnfalk, som returnerer med byttet til et sentralt punkt slik som et reir, har tilpasset seg en vinn-vent strategi, og konsentrerer seg om byttedyr som er lette å få tak i, ved spesifikke værforhold. Jeg fant også ut at hunnens aggresjon var større når hannen leverte byttet direkte på reiret sammenlignet med når hannen leverte til hunnen utenfor reiret. Dette antyder at hunnen forsøker å forhindre hannen i å levere direkte til ungene, sannsynligvis for å kunne kontrollere allokeringen av hannens leveranser mellom seg selv og ungene.
Noel, V. (2008) -
Nogales Hidalgo, M. & Gonzalez Gonzalez, C. (2005) -
Nogales, M. & Hernandez, E. & Delgado, G. & Quintero, A. (1990) -
The floristic and faunistic communities of Roque Grande de Salmor off the North coast of El Hierro is described. In the highest part of the islet, a small previously unrecorded population of Gallotia galloti caesaris has been found .
Nogales, M. & Luis, R. & Alonso, M. (1989) -
In this paper, we present the first record of the presence of a young Gallotia galloti (F. Lacertidae) inside a stomach of Rana perezi (F. Ranidae).
Nogales, M. & Padilla, D.P. & Nieves, C. & Illera, J.C. & Traveset, A. (2007) -
1. Secondaryseeddispersaloccurswheneveraseedisdispersedintwoormoredifferent dispersal events, so that different dispersal agents (e.g. animal frugivores or inverte- brates) contribute to different events. Three secondary seed dispersal systems, in which lizards and predatory birds participate, are studied in Lanzarote (Canary Islands). 2. Seeds from all three plant species studied (Lycium intricatum, Rubia fruticosa and Asparagus nesiotes) were found with the remains of lizards (Gallotia atlantica) when they appeared inside shrike (Lanius meridionalis) and kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) pellets. This suggests that these two avian predators might secondarily disperse these plants by incidentally ingesting seeds when they prey upon the frugivorous lizards. 3. Lycium and Rubia seeds dispersed by Falco had significantly thinner seed coats com- pared to the other treatments (Gallotia and Lanius) and to uningested seeds. Correlated with this result, seed hardness increased from Lycium (the softest coat), to Rubia (inter- mediate values), to Asparagus. 4. Seed viability was high in all three species, although both viability and germination were significantly reduced in seeds of Lycium and Rubia dispersed by Falco. 5. The seed distribution was markedly different, Gallotia being an important disperser in the open ground microhabitats, Lanius in hillocks and Falco in hills. Because all three plant species were present in all these microhabitats, our observations suggest that the dispersal of these plants might be associated with the differential use of the habitat by the different dispersers. 6. Synthesis: Contrary to some long-distance seed dispersal (LDD) paradigms, the complex seed dispersal systems we describe are common and affect an important number of seeds that are moved each year to particular microhabitats. Finally, the simultaneous ecological factors analysed in this study support the hypotheses that diplochory by double endozoochory could have played a more important role in LDD events than is currently recognized, both in recent volcanic areas (lowlands) and also probably in the colonization of other subtropical islands.
Nogales, M. & Rando, J.C. & Valido, A. & Martin, A. (2000) -
Nogales, M. & Rando, J.C. & Valido, A. & Martin, A. (2001) -
We describe the external morphology of a new giant lizard found alive on La Gomera Island (Canarian Archipelago), which had been previously described from subfossil bones. Adult size (SVL 135-190 mm) is comparable with the two largest living species (G. simonyi and G. stehlini) of the genus. It differs from the other species of Gallotia in the low number of temporal scales (21-27), presence of one elongate interprefrontal scale (linearly depressed in center) that is very infrequent in most of its congeners (small when it is present), having two distinctive lateral lines of small blue spots, and in having a blackish-brown dorsum and ventral parts ivory white. According to subfossil data, based on tooth morphology and body size, this lizard seems to correspond to the putatively extinct subspecies (G. simonyi gomerana). This taxon is sufficiently distinct to be treated as a full species, G. gomerana. Molecular data analysis from mtDNA sequences (cytochrome b and 12S rRNA) indicate that G. gomerana is closely related to G. simonyi and G. intermedia. After prospecting 70 localities in La Gomera, we only found a very small and threatened population of this species in Valle Gran Rey, in the western part of the island and living in an area of less than 1 ha. A small population size (only six individuals are known) and a large number of feral cats in their habitat makes this lizard the most endangered vertebrate of the Canaries and Europe and one of the most threatened in all the world. The species is suspected to be on the brink of extinction, so conservation measures are urgently needed, including a captive breeding plan at Valle Gran Rey, close to the natural habitat.
Nogales, M. & Rodriguez-Luengo, L. & Marrero, P. (2006) -
Nogales, M. & Valido, A. (1999) -
In this paper we present the regression analysis between SVL and eight osteological variables in G. atlantica and G. galloti. Positive significant relationships can be observed among them, although coefficient of determination (R²) indicate better fits in the case of G. galloti than G. atlantica. Furthermore, preliminary data on the weight-length relationships are shown. The proposed models can be used in predator vertebrate alimentary studies that include lizards size selection of both mentioned species and also in paleontological surveys.
Nogales, M. & Valido, A. & Rando, J.C. & Martin, A. (1999) -
Noghanchi, E. & Javanbakht, H. (2019) -
Sexual dimorphism in digit ration is related to genetic differences between species in response to prenatal exposure to hormones. In this study, the development of tetrapod digits, preliminary the ratio between the length of digit II and IV (2D: 4D) was investigated in 34 samples of Darevskia cholorogaster in the North of Iran. The results showed no significant differences between sexes in any digit length. The digit ratio 2D: 4D was different between males and females in which the females had greater 2D: 4D in forelimb than the males. However, this difference was not significant. Sexual dimorphism in 2D: 4D, 3D: 4D and 2D: 3D ratios for the male and female showed no correlation within sex. Our results supported a genetic pattern seen in humans and most mammals, inconsistent with basic genetic pattern in reptiles. We concluded that the digits ratios observed in D. cholorogaster could be referred to microhabitat use by this species on different surfaces, besides basic genetic pattern and other ecological effects as foraging and mating.
Noguera Tomás, C. (2018) -
Body temperature is the most important physiological variable for ectotherms, because it directly affects their biological adequacy through the effect on the performance of variable behavioral and physiological variables (Huey 1982, Huey & Kingsolver 1989, Angilletta et al.2002). The behavior plays a preponderant role in the thermoregulation, allowing a quick and economic adaptation to the spatial and temporal variability of the availability of thermal resources, making it possible to increase / decrease the heat loss / gain by solar radiation, convection and / or conduction (Templeton 1970). The physiological thermoregulation is a mechanism that focuses mainly on variations in the cardiovascular system, where the rate of heat transfer between different parts of the body is modified by changes in heart rate, respiration, blood flow and redistribution (Bartholomew 1982, Seebacher 2000, Dzialowski & O´connor 2001). In this study we wanted to verify the effects produced in the Gallotia galloti by a controlled change of temperature on brain activity, heart rate, respiratory rate and, by means of a photothermal camera, the temperature difference between the head and body of the animal. The results obtained by the analysis in the time domain have been able to verify that the temperature affects the respiratory and cardiac frequency, producing a decrease in the amplitude between the RR and SS peaks. Also, by means of the photographs taken with the photothermal camera, it has been observed that these animals have a thermoregulation system by which they modify the body temperature, including a countercurrent system in the head area to regulate the cranial temperature.
Nogusa, S. (1953) -
A study of 3 spp. of the Lacertidae showed the chromosome number of Takydromus tachydromoides and T. smaragdinus as 2N = 38, each sp. having a pair of m-chromosomes of minute size; and of Lacerta vivipara as 2N = 36 with no m-chromosomes. A single specimen of T. smaragdinus possessed exceptionally large m-chromosomes, whereas they were of medium size in other specimens and extremely small in T. tachydromoides. Evidence of diminution in the size of the m-chromosomes by species and the assumption of their final disappearance may explain the numerical relation of the chromosomes found in Takydromus and L. vivipara.
Noll, F.C. (1866) -
Noll, F.C. (1883) -
Nöllert, A. (1983) -
Nöllert, A. (1987) -
Nöllert, A. (1988) -
Nöllert, A. (1989) -
Nöllert, A. (2012) -
Nöllert, A. & Nöllert, C. & Ritter, A. (1986) -
Noordwijk, C. van & Peeters, T. (2008) -
n May and June 2005, more than 15 Wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) were observed at the Bemelerberg nature reserve (in the southern part of the province of Limburg). Although it turned out that Wall lizards had been found in this area before, the presence of this species had not previously been published. At first glance it seems likely that the population has been illegally introduced to this site. However, there is some evidence suggesting that Wall lizards may have inhabited the Bemelerberg all along and form a natural population. A brief investigation has turned up several alleged sightings between 1930 and 1950, and there are some circumstances that could explain the absence of sightings between 1950 and recent years, even if the Wall lizard was present throughout this period. We have not been able to confirm or refute either of the options, i.e. natural population or illegal introduction. We hope this article can act as the starting point for further debate and we urge anyone with information on the origin of the Bemelerberg Wall lizards to come forward.
Noori, S. & Hawlitschek, O. & Oldeland, J. & Rajaei, H. & Husemann, M. & Simoes, M. (2021) -
The global struggle to conserve as many species as possible with limited resources requires an improvement of our knowledge on the distribution of biodiversity. In Iran, the state of knowledge is poor for most groups of organisms, except few vertebrate groups and vascular plants. Reptiles are one of the best known, most diverse vertebrate groups in Iran, with a high rate of endemism (ca. 29%), but distribution patterns and related environmental drivers remain poorly understood. In the present study, based on a large publicly available dataset, we use general additive modelling (GAM) to identify explanatory variables for species richness of reptiles in Iran. Results indicate heterogeneity parameters (range +entropy) as the variables with the highest explanatory values. Based on the grid cells of the predicted environmental richness, using hotspot analysis, we suggest seven hotspots of reptile diversity (HRDs) across the country. Our results corroborate the previously recognized HRDs and detect three additional ones, located alongside the major mountain ranges around the central deserts plateau, particularly in the Zagros Mountains. Four of the largest HRDs (ca. 90%) situate within the Irano-Anatolian and Caucasus global biodiversity hotspot. In addition, our results reveal a large gap between identified HRDs and the current network of protected areas (PAs) in the country. While three of the detected HRDs in this study are partially touched (ca. 18%) by the PA network, overall, these areas are only covered by less than 10%. Therefore, the effectiveness of the current PAs for the protection of the reptile diversity of Iran is questionable.
Noppe, A. (1998) -
Norcal, G. & Mao, J.-J. (2006) -
Norcal, G. & Mao, J.-J. (2008) -
Nördlinger (1885) -
Nördlinger, H. v. (1850) -
Nördlinger, H. v. (1855) -
Nordmann, A. (1840) -
Nores Quesada, C. & Garcia-Rovés González, P. (2007) -
Norguet, A. de (1871) -
Norrie, S. (1981) -
Norte, A.C. & Silva, A.A. da & Alves, J. & Silva, L.P. da & Núncio, M.S. & Escudero, R. & Anda, P. & Ramos, J.A. & Carvalho, I.L. de (2014) -
Norval, G. & Huang, S.-C. & Mao, J.-J. (2007) -
Norval, G. & Mao, J.-J. & Goldberg, S.R. (2012) -
The Kühne’s Grass Lizard (Takydromus kuehnei) is a poorly studied indigenous species in Taiwan. In this report we incorporate additional information concerning reproduction with our previous observations to provide a more comprehensive description of reproduction in T. kuehnei from southwestern Taiwan. We collected 48 T. kuehnei (18 male, 19 female) from a secondary forest in Santzepu, Sheishan District, Chiayi County, as part of a herpetofauna survey in the area. We also obtained five clutches of eggs from these lizards. The smallest reproductively active female was 49 mm snout-vent length (SVL). Oviposition took place from April to July. Clutch sizes ranged from one to two eggs with an average of 1.8. A histological examination of five museum specimens confirmed that females may produce multiple clutches in the same year. We obtained 11 eggs that had an average length, width, and mass of 10.6 mm, 6.1 mm, and 1.8 g, respectively. The average relative clutch mass was 16.7%. Five eggs successfully hatched after an average incubation period of 32.6 days. The hatchlings had an average SVL of 23.8 mm, total length of 51.4 mm, and mass of 0.3 g.
Norval, G. & Mao, J.-J. & Goldberg, S.R. & Huang, S.-C. (2016) -
Thirteen (male = 2; female = 10; juvenile = 1) Takydromus formosanus were collected on an ad hoc basis from an Areca catechu plantation in Santzepu, Sheishan District, Chiayi County, as part of a herpetofauna research in the area. The smallest reproductively active female had a snout-vent length (SVL) of 44 mm, and the smallest male with an enlarged tail base had a SVL of 41 mm. A histological examination and oviposition indicated that the female reproductive cycle commences in April and lasts until at least June. No clutch size bigger than two eggs was recorded in this study. Takydromus formosanus is a poorly studied species, and many aspects of the reproductive biology of this species merits further empirical study.
Nouira, M.S. & Joger, U. (2006) -
Nouira, S. (1951) -
Etude du régime alimentaire et de ses variations spatiotemporelles chez ces deux lézards qui sont tous deux opportunistes. Le recouvrement global des niches écologiques est élevé, en particulier en juillet. La variabilité et l`hétérogénéité des conditions de milieu pourraient favoriser alternativement chacune des deux populations de telle sorte que l`exclusion compétitive ne puisse jamais se produire
Nouira, S. (1982) -
Nouira, S. (1986) -
Nouira, S. (1987) -
Nouira, S. (1988) -
Nouira, S. (1992) -
Nouira, S. (1996) -
Nouira, S. (2001) -
Nouira, S. & Blanc, C.P. (1986) -
Twenty species of Reptiles divided into 14 genus and 7 families have been identified from 21 samples of the south of Chott El Djerid. The specific richness seems to decrease on the surroundings of the Chott. The log-normal model shows best the abundance of the distribution observed. In the relation with the pedologic caracteristics of the environment, Reptiles share out themselves between four unities.
Nouira, S. & Blanc, C.P. (1993) -
Southern tunisian herpetofauna includes 24 sampled species of Reptiles : 18 of lizards, in 12 genera and 6 families and 6 of snakes, in 5 genera and 2 families. Almost 62 percent of sampled items are related to Acanthodactylus of the southern group (A. inornatus - A. longipes). Highest biodiversities were found close to the Chotts (wetter areas) and in Louara and Dhahars regions (high substratum heterogeneity). Each species occurs only in one or two geomorphologicaly closely related environments. Aridity constraints induce a decreasing in biodiversity : most of the genera having here only one species. Major zoogeographical affinities are Saharo-sindian.
Nouira, S. & Blanc, C.P. (1999) -
Acanthodactylus mechriguensis n. sp. is described, in the A. pardalis group, from Sidi- Mechrig, terra-typica, in Tunisia. The new species is distinguished by its color pattern, globular head, large body size and mainly an advanced fragmentation of its cephalic scales. Ways of speciation are discussed.
Nouira, S. & Blanc, C.P. (2000) -
Un découpage hiérarchisé du territoire tunisien en quatre domaines zoogéographiques a été réalisé à partir de la composition spécifique en Lacertidés de 25 secteurs correspondant aux différentes régions naturelles du pays. La délimitation, les caractéristiques faunistiques, les affinités et l`origine biogéographique du peuplement en Lacertidés de ces quatre entités, sont analysées et discutées.
Nouira, S. & Blanc, C.P. (2003) -
The distribution areas of the 14 species of Lacertids in Tunisia are mapped, using our 265 field survey stations scattered all over the country and surveyed from 1974 to 1995. Biotops characteristics are reported. The respective contributions of ecological factors, such as climate, substrate, vegetation overlapping level, interactions between species (competitive exclusion or, on the reverse, syntopic coexistence) are analyzed and graded.
Nouira, S. & Blanc, C.P. (2004) -
Each of die 25 natural regions in Tunisia harbour from I to 9 Lacerlids among the 14 species surveyed in this country. The richest regions are the South-western pari of the Tunisian Central Range and the Dhahars mountains in Southern Tunisia. They are ranging between lower semi-arid and upper saharian. In the sandy, lower saharian Far-south, only one species occurs. Geographie variation of the specific diversity and structure of Lacertid communities arc related to bioelimatical affinities and zoogeographical native areas of the species. Main steps in the immigration or local differentiation of Lacertids are reported. Impacts of climatical and biological factors on Lacertid communities arc discussed.
Nouira, S. & Blanc, C.P. & Crochet, P.-A. & Frétey, T. & Geniez, P. & Ineich, I. & Massary, J.-C. de & Ohler, A. & Tlili, W. & Lescure, J. (2022) -
A new taxonomic checklist is established for the Amphibians and “Reptiles” of Tunisia. In addition to international zoological scientific names, a French scientific name is attributed to each taxon. The Tunisian herpetofauna presently contains seven species of Amphibians and 62 of “Reptiles”.
Nouira, S. & Mou, Y.P. (1982) -
The seasonal and local variations of the diet of the lizard Eremias olivieri (Lacertidae) were studied on the Kerkennah islands, off the coast of Tunisia. A total of 247 stomach was examined. The wide range of the food items ingested, and the lack of a close relationship between the size of the prey and that of the predator, emphasizes the dietary opportunism of Eremias olivieri. Such a diet is considered as adaptive to the scarcity of food resources of the semi-desertic environment of the Kerkennah islands.
Novák, V. (1954) -
Nowikoff, M. (1907) -
Noworyta, I. (2020) -
Chemoreception is one of the most important means of intraspecies communication in a lizards. Despite of number of studies dealing with means of reptiles communication, there is still lack of knowledge about chemical composition of pori femorales mucus. This thesis aims to characterise the pori femorales mucus chemical composition in Lacerta agilis.In order to identificate the compounds GC-MS technique was you. Next the principal compounds analysis was used to study the relationships between occurrence of the given compound relate to condition and the living location of the individual.Pori femorales mucus of the Lacerta agilis adult males consist of mixture of the compounds, primarily made of steroids and carboxylic acids. In this thesis I have shown that quantitative composition of the compounds is variable between individuals. Moreover, the mucus qualitative compositions is variable between individuals.
Nuland, G.J. van & Strijbosch, H. (1981) -
This article shows what method is suitable for an accurate determination of the annual rhythmics of lizard species. Such a determination can be reached with the help of, amongst others, mating scars, presence of deep skin folds and the structure of the navel scars in juveniles. This method was applied in a five year intensive poulation study on Lacerta vivipara and Lacerta agilis agilis in the south-east of the Netherlands. The data on rhythmics obtained thus are discussed.
Nunes, S.F. & Mota-Ferreira, M. & Sampaio, M. & Andrade, J. & Oliveira, N. & Rebelo, R. & Rocha, R. (2021) -
Invasive species are a major threat to island biodiversity, and their eradications have substantially contributed to the conservation of island endemics. However, the consequences of eradications on the trophic ecology of native taxa are largely unexplored. Here, we used the eradication of invasive black rats Rattus rattus and European rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus from the Berlenga Island, in the western coast of Portugal, as a whole-ecosystem experiment to investigate the effects of the eradication of invasive mammals on the trophic niche and body dimensions of the island-restricted Berlenga wall lizard Podarcis carbonelli berlengensis over a 2-year period. Our results suggest an expansion of the isotopic niche and an intensification of the sexual dimorphism of the lizard following mammal eradication. Additionally, we found considerable variability in isotopic niche across the island and detected evidence of sex-specific and season-modulated nutritional requirements of this threatened reptile. Our findings support that the eradication of 2 of the planet’s most problematic invasive vertebrates led to changes in the lizard trophic niche and sexual dimorphism in just 2 years. This suggests that the ecological pressures—for example, prey availability and habitat structure—to which lizards are exposed have substantially changed post-eradication. Our study emphasizes the scientific value of island eradications as experiments to address a wide range of ecological questions and adds to the increasing body of evidence supporting substantial conservation gains associated with these restoration interventions.
Nunes, S.F. et al. (2023) -
Island ecosystems are highly vulnerable to human-mediated biological invasions. While this impact is predominantly studied on endemic species, which are a primary focus of conservation efforts, impact on more widespread species is often neglected, despite their significant contribution to these ecosystems. Berlenga island belongs to a protected area located off the western coast of Portugal, being an important nesting site for several seabird species. The ocellated lizard Timon lepidus became isolated 9000 to 10000 years ago due to marine transgression, constituting a locally differentiated population, with unique morphological and behavioural adaptations to insularity. Lizards of this island restricted population exhibited weakened antipredatory behaviour, being slower runners and less aggressive. Furthermore, T. ledipus in Berlenga were often found in agglomerations and did not seem to exhibit accentuated territorial behaviour. Since the late 1980s, the Berlenga population of T. lepidus declined substantially, seemingly due to predation and competition with the increasing population of seagulls. Furthermore, the increased adult mortality rate, the food scarcity leading to cannibalism of juveniles, the intense destruction of postures by rat predation and by rabbit tunnels construction, along with attacks led by dog packs are likely to have caused an accentuated population decline, going from 180 individuals in 1987, to 25 individuals in 1996. All attempts to reestablish the population viability failed and the last individual was observed in 2009. Annually, between 2016 and 2019 we conducted extensive herpetological surveys in Berlenga. Multiple observers exhaustively searched for T. lepidus during multiple days each year and no individuals were detected. Furthermore, interviews to the key researchers and wildlife rangers working in the island revealed that for over 10 years no individual has been found, despite extensive fieldwork in Berlenga, associated with a 3 year long LIFE+ project devoted to the restorations of the island’s habitats. We thus believe that the Berlenga population of T. lepidus can confidently be declared extinct. Considering the success of interventions intended to control the numbers of yellowlegged gulls and the eradication of invasive black rats and European rabbits, we argue that a reintroduction of T. lepidus from another insular population should be equated.
Nunes, V.L. (2011) -
The determination of the genetic basis of adaptive traits in natural populations is fundamental to better understand how populations adaptively diverge in heterogeneous environments and eventually give rise to new species. This work describes the efforts to identify candidate loci influenced by selection in ocellated lizards (Lacerta lepida) along an environmental gradient in the Iberian Peninsula, strongly affected by climatic variables. Two subspecies are recognized at the opposite extremes of the gradient, L. l. iberica in the northwest and L. l. nevadensis in the southeast, with morphological differences that suggest their local adaptation. Candidate loci were detected through an AFLP genome scan. Detection of candidate loci with a frequentist method and with Bayesian method resulted in a similar proportion of outliers (3-4%), but only a few loci were detected by both methods, denoting differences in methods’ sensitivity. Several outliers were associated with variation in temperature, insolation or precipitation along the gradient, suggesting the importance of these variables as selective pressures for local adaptation. Seven outliers were successfully characterized, being noncoding, with internal indels or repetitive elements as causes of length polymorphism, indicating that they might act as regulatory elements or are in linkage with the actual target of selection. The analysis of Mc1r, a candidate gene for coloration, revealed a nonconserved and derived substitution (T162I) associated with the brownish colour phenotype of L. l. nevadensis, suggesting a putative partial loss of function. Another substitution (S172C) was associated with the presence of black scales in both L. l. lepida and L. l. iberica, but no mutations were associated with the higher melanization of L. l. iberica. Analysis of genetic structure showed that L. l. nevadensis divergence is well supported by both neutral and non-neutral loci, confirming that the subspecies is at the final stages of its speciation process. L. l. iberica divergence from the nominal subspecies is mostly explained by a few adaptive loci, indicating that L. l. iberica might be at the early stages of ecological speciation.
Nunes, V.L. & Beaumont, M.A. & Butlin, R.K. (2012) -
In the last few years, dozens of studies have documented the detection of loci influenced by selection from genome scans in a wide range of non-model species. Many of those studies used amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers, which became popular for being easily applicable to any organism. However, because they are anonymous markers, AFLPs impose many challenges for their isolation and identification. Most recent AFLP genome scans used capillary electrophoresis (CE), which adds even more obstacles to the isolation of bands with a specific size for sequencing. These caveats might explain the extremely low number of studies that moved from the detection of outlier AFLP markers to their actual isolation and characterization. We document our efforts to characterize a set of outlier AFLP markers from a previous genome scan with CE in ocellated lizards (Lacerta lepida). Seven outliers were successfully isolated, cloned and sequenced. Their sequences are noncoding and show internal indels or polymorphic repetitive elements (microsatellites). Three outliers were converted into codominant markers by using specific internal primers to sequence and screen population variability from undigested DNA. Amplification in closely related lizard species was also achieved, revealing remarkable interspecific conservation in outlier loci sequences. We stress the importance of following up AFLP genome scans to validate selection signatures of outlier loci, but also report the main challenges and pitfalls that may be faced during the process.
Nunes, V.L. & Beaumont, M.A. & Butlin, R.K. & Paulo, O.S. (2011) -
Identification of loci with adaptive importance is a key step to understand the speciation process in natural populations, because those loci are responsible for phenotypic variation that affects fitness in different environments. We conducted an AFLP genome scan in populations of ocellated lizards (Lacerta lepida) to search for candidate loci influenced by selection along an environmental gradient in the Iberian Peninsula. This gradient is strongly influenced by climatic variables, and two subspecies can be recognized at the opposite extremes: L. lepida iberica in the northwest and L. lepida nevadensis in the southeast. Both subspecies show substantial morphological differences that may be involved in their local adaptation to the climatic extremes. To investigate how the use of a particular outlier detection method can influence the results, a frequentist method, DFDIST, and a Bayesian method, BayeScan, were used to search for outliers influenced by selection. Additionally, the spatial analysis method was used to test for associations of AFLP marker band frequencies with 54 climatic variables by logistic regression. Results obtained with each method highlight differences in their sensitivity. DFDIST and BayeScan detected a similar proportion of outliers (3–4%), but only a few loci were simultaneously detected by both methods. Several loci detected as outliers were also associated with temperature, insolation or precipitation according to spatial analysis method. These results are in accordance with reported data in the literature about morphological and life-history variation of L. lepida subspecies along the environmental gradient.
Nunes, V.L. & Miraldo, A. & Beaumont, M.A. & Butlin, R.K. & Paulo, O.S. (2011) -
A comprehensive knowledge on the genetic basis of coloration is crucial to understand how new colour phenotypes arise and how they contribute to the emergence of new species. Variation in melanocortin-1 receptor (Mc1r), a gene that has been reported as a target for repeated evolution in a wide range of vertebrate taxa, was assessed in European ocellated lizards (Lacerta lepida) to search for associations with melanin-based colour phenotypes. Lacerta lepida subspecies’ distribution is associated with the three major bio-climatic regions in the Iberian Peninsula. A nonconserved and derived substitution (T162I) was associated with the L. l. nevadensis phenotype (prevalence of brown scales). Another substitution (S172C) was associated with the presence of black scales in both L. l. lepida and L. l. iberica, but no mutations were found to be associated with the higher proportion of black in L. l. iberica. Extensive genotyping of Mc1r along the contact zone between L. l. nevadensis and L. l. lepida revealed low gene flow (only two hybrids detected). The implications of these findings are discussed in the context of previous knowledge about the evolutionary history of ocellated lizards.
Nurtazin, S.T. & Bazarbaeva, Z.M. & Reshetova, O.A. & Naumova, L.I. & Zharkova, L.I. (2007) -
O`Shea, M. (2021) -
Oberhofer, S. (2019) -
The author reports about his observations on Podarcis muralis on dry stone walls below the castle Gutenberg in Balzers (Liechtenstein). On 13 January 2018 about 25 animals of all ages and both sexes could be observed.
The author reports on two wall lizard populations in the area Sargans / Heiligkreuz / Trübbach (Canton St. Gallen). Obviously these two populations form one big single population nowadays.
Eine kurze Notiz über eine allochthone Population von Podarcis siculus campestris, die auf dem Gelände des Bahnhofs Rapperswil im Schweizer Kanton St. Gallen lebt.
A short note on an allochthonous population of Podarcis siculus campestris living on the railway area of the train station Rapperswil in the Swiss Canton of St. Gallen.
Oberhofer, S.J. & S.J.R. Allain (2019) -
While many reptile species are predicted to be threatened by the rising temperatures caused by the ongoing climate change we’re facing in the Anthropocene, certain genera have found these conditions to be advantageous. Some of these cases are represented by the genus Podarcis, a group of small and agile lizards, mainly native to Europe and northern Africa. 25 species are recognized and some of them have found their home far outside of their native range. We would like to give a small insight at an introduced population of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) and their interesting pre-winter activity in the principality of Liechtenstein.
Obermann, H.-W. & Gruschwitz, M. (1992) -
An der Mosel wurde im Juni/Juli 1988 eine ca.100 Jahre alte Weinbergstrockenmauer auf ihre Zoozönose hin untersucht, wobei eine faunistische Bestandsanalyse und die ökologische Bewertung des Mauerkörpers und dessen Hinterfüllung in Mittelpunkt stand. Die Trockenmauer wurde Stein für Stein abgetragen, das Erdmaterial von Hand ausgelesen und anschließend aufgeschlämmt. Im Mittelpunkt der Untersuchung standen die Evertebraten, Säugetiere und Reptilien (Podarcis muralis) wurden mitberücksichtigt. Die bei der Untersuchung gewonnenen Ergebnisse führen zu praktischen Hinweisen und Vorschläge hinsichtlich des Schutzes und der Gestaltung von Trockenmauern. So wurde z. B. deutlich, daß für eine 100 Jahre alte Trockenmauer ökologisch kein vollwertiger Ersatz, z. B. durch Neubau, möglich ist.
Observatoire National de l’Environment du Maroc “O.N.E.M” (1998) -
Observatoire Naturaliste des Ecosystemes Mediterranes (2007) -
Obst, F.-J. (1990) -
Obst, F.J. (1962) -
Obst, F.J. (1963) -
Obst, F.J. (1980) -
Ochkalova, S. & Korchagin, V. & Vergun, A. & Urin, A. & Zilov, D. & Ryakhovsky, S. & Girnyk, A. & Martirosyan, I. & Zhernakova, D.V. & Arakelyan, M. & Danielyan, F. & Kliver, S. & Brukhin, V. & Komissarov, A. & Ryskov, A. (2022) -
The extant reptiles are one of the most diverse clades among terrestrial vertebrates and one of a few groups with instances of parthenogenesis. Due to the hybrid origin of parthenogenetic species, reference genomes of the parental species as well as of the parthenogenetic progeny are indispensable to explore the genetic foundations of parthenogenetic reproduction. Here, we report on the first genome assembly of rock lizard Darevskia valentini, a paternal species for several parthenogenetic lineages. The novel genome was used in the reconstruction of the comprehensive phylogeny of Squamata inferred independently from 7369 trees of single-copy orthologs and a supermatrix of 378 conserved proteins. We also investigated Hox clusters, the loci that are often regarded as playing an important role in the speciation of animal groups with drastically diverse morphology. We demonstrated that Hox clusters of D. valentini are invaded with transposons and contain the HoxC1 gene that has been considered to be lost in the amniote ancestor. This study provides confirmation for previous works and releases new genomic data that will contribute to future discoveries on the mechanisms of parthenogenesis as well as support comparative studies among reptiles.
Ochsenhofer, G. (2012) -
Ochsenhofer, G. & Margreiter, R. (2023) -
Odabas, Y. & Bülbül, U. & Eroglu, A.I. & Koc, H. & Kurnaz, M. & Kutrup, B. (2019) -
This study provides information about age and growth of Lacerta trilineata BEDRIAGA, 1886, in the population from Sergen, West Turkey, at an altitude of 420 m a.s.l. age at maturity, sexual size difference (SSd) and growth rate of the sample are presented. Cross-sections of phalangeal bones were examined based on the skeletochronology method. In the adult sample (14 males and 12 females), the age ranged from 6-13 (x = 8.77) years for both sexes collectively, the values 7-13 (x = 9.07) years in males and 6-10 (x = 8.42) years in females not differing significantly from each other. Sexual maturity was attained in the third year of life in both sexes. There was no significant correlation between the lizards’ body size (SVL) and age for both males and females. A slightly male-biased sexual size dimorphism (SSd = 0.014, not significant) was observed. The growth coefficient (k) was lower in females than males (k ± confidence interval, males: 0.96 ± 0.22; females: 0.75 ± 0.41). There was no difference in the growth rate between sexes.
Odhner, T. (1908) -
Odierna, G. & Aprea, G. & Arribas, O. & Capriglione, T. & Caputo, V. (1994) -
The karyology of two taxa represented in the mountain herpetofauna: Discoglossus Otth, 1837 and Iberian Archaeolacerta Méhely, 1909 -- Discoglossus and Iberian Archaeolacerta represent good models in studying the roles played by chromosomal variations during evolution. In Discoglossus chromosomal rearrangements appear to have essentially involved the localisation and/or composition of heterochromatin and, at a lower degreee, the chromosome morphology. Kariologic data on the Iberian Archaeolacerta showed that L. monticola is a polytypical taxon including L. monticola sensu stricto and the L. bonnali complex. In the former taxon there are 2n=36 all acrocentric chromosomes, and in the latter there are 2n=24-26 chromosomes, 10-12 of which biarmed.
Odierna, G. & Aprea, G. & Arribas, O. & Capriglione, T. & Caputo, V. & Morescalchi, A. & Olmo, E. (2001) -
Odierna, G. & Aprea, G. & Arribas, O. & Capriglione, T. & Caputo, V. & Olmo, E. (1996) -
We conducted a karyological study of Iberian rock lizards by standard and C-, AgNOR-, DAPI-, and Alu I-banding methods. The results showed that Lacerta monticola monticola and L. m. cantabrica possess 2N = 36 uniarmed chromosomes. Lacerta m. cyreni differs from the other two subspecies of L. monticola in the NOR-bearing chromosome pairs and in the presence of the heteromorphic and heterochromatic W-chromosome. The Pyrenean species L. aurelioi and L. bonnali differ from L. monticola in having a karyotype rich in biarmed elements. In fact, L. aurelioi possesses a 2N = 26 karyotype with 10 biarmed + 16 uniarmed macrochromosomes. In L. bonnali, an intraspecific variability in diploid number due to Robertsonian translocations was found: the specimens of L. b. aranica have a karyotype similar to that of L. aurelioi while the specimens from nominal subspecies (population of Monte Perdido) possess a 2N = 24 karyotype with 12 biarmed + 12 uniarmed macrochromosomes. Our results confirm that Iberian rock lizards form a heterogeneous group in which at least five taxa can be distinguished karyologically.
Odierna, G. & Aprea, G. & Arribas, O. & Capriglione, T. & Olmo, E. (1995) -
Odierna, G. & Aprea, G. & Arribas, O. & Capriglione, T. & Olmo, E. (2001) -
Odierna, G. & Aprea, G. & Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Capriglione, T. & Olmo, E. (1998) -
Odierna, G. & Aprea, G. & Capriglione, T. & Arribas, Oscar J. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Olmo, E. (1998) -
Populations of Zootoca vivipara appear karyologically well differentiated by heterochromatin distribution both in autosomes and sex-chromosomes; allopatric oviparous populations possess few elements with centromeric heterochromatin and W acrocen-tric sex-chromosomes with heterochromatin only on the centromere; Alpine, as well as central-western European viviparous populations possess conspicuous centromeric bands of heterochromatin on all of the chromosome pairs and a metacentric W chromosome with paracentromeric and telomeric heterochromatin bands; viviparous populations, living east and possibly north of the Carpathian Mountains, have many elements with interstitial and telomeric heterochromatin and an acrocentric W chromosome with telomeric and subtelomeric heterochroma. These data suggest an origin and evolution of sex-chromosomes in this species, that, interestingly, parallels the recent hypothesis (Heulin et al., 1993) on the rise and evolution of viviparity and speciation in Zootoca.
Odierna, G. & Aprea, G. & Capriglione, T. & Puky, M. (2004) -
Odierna, G. & Arribas, O. (2005) -
The results are presented of a chromosomal study performed by means standard and banding staining methods in the Mosor rock lizard, `Lacerta` mosorensis, the last European mountain lizard to be karyotyped. It had a karyotype of 2n = 38 elements, 36 telocentric macrochromosomes + 2 microchromosomes, and NORs on peritelomeric regions of a medium-small chromosome pair. C-banding staining disclosed the presence of heteromorphic Z and W sex chromosomes. The W chromosome appeared to be completely heterochromatic and smaller than the Z one, which, instead, was mostly euchromatic. The results obtained show that `L.` mosorensis is karyologically unrelated to other European mountain lizards, whose karyotypes display a different chromosome number and/or localization of NORs.
Odierna, G. & Arribas, O.J. (2008) -
Odierna, G. & Capriglione, T. & Caputo, V. & Olmo, E. (1993) -
Odierna, G. & Capriglione, T. & Olmo, E. & Cardone, A. & Rosati, C. (1990) -
Odierna, G. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Capriglione, T. (1993) -
Sex chromosomes were studied in eight species of lacertid lizards using C-banding, G-banding and restriction enzyme treatment. All of the species showed female heterogamety. The W chromosome was a microchromosome in Lacerta graeca and Ophisops elegans. Two types of W were found in Lacerta vivipara; in specimens from The Netherlands it was metacentric, whereas in specimens from Russia it was acrocentric or subtelocentric. The W chromosome was homomorphic or nearly homomorphic but completely C-banded and heterochromatic in Lacerta agilis, Podarcis hispanica, Algyroides moreoticus and A. nigropunctatus. In was only possible to find sex chromosomes using the G-banding method in Podarcis sicula. The results obtained, together with data in the literature, suggest that sex chromosomes are likely to be present in all Lacertidae and that their differentiation took place repeatedly and independently in different taxa within the family. A model for sex chromosome evolution in the family, in which the starting point was the heterochromatization of the W chromosome, is proposed.
Odierna, G. & Olmo, E. & Caputo, V. & Capriglione, T. & Bosch, H.A.J. in den (1995) -
Odierna, G. & Olmo, E. & O. Cobror (1985) -
The chromosome C-banding pattern has been studied in four lacertid species possessing the same karyotype. The results obtained show a remarkable interspecific variability both in the amount and distribution of C-banded heterochromatin. This leads us to the speculation that alleged conservativeness in their karyology is probably due to inadequate resolution by the conventional cytological techniques. Moreover, it has been hypothesized that these variations of the C-bands play an important role in the evolution of this saurian family.
Odierna, G. & Olmo, W. & Capriglione, T. & Caputo, V. (1990) -
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2009) -
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2010) -
Anhand morphologischer Merkmale wird die Verbreitungsgrenze von Podarcis hispanicus (s.str.) und Podarcis liolepis in der Provinz Alicante (Spanien) diskutiert. Die Auswertung unserer Ergebnisse stützt die These, dass es sich hier um geografisch klar abgegrenzte Arten mit nur wenigen Überlappungen handelt. Die bisher bekannte nördliche Verbreitungsgrenze von Podarcis hispanicus (s.str.) liegt bei der Stadt Elche. Nach unseren Erkenntnissen erstreckt sich das Verbreitungsgebiet jedoch 50 km weiter nach Nordosten. Die Verbreitungsgrenze korreliert außerdem mit einer klimatischen Grenze.
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2011) -
Since the description of Podarcis levendis in 2008 only a few people have visited this species in ist habitat on the island of Pori and Lagouvardos. The authors have participated in a field trip to Pori where Podarcis levendis occours in high population density.
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2012) -
The authros report on their observations on Podarcis gaigeae (Skyros Wall Lizard) on the Skyros archipelago. In Addition to the island of Skyros, two offshore islets with populations of particularly large lizards have been visited.
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2013) -
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2014) -
The authors report about their observations on coastal populations of Archaeolacerta bedriagae on Corsica, where these lizards live on coastal rocks. Furthermore, a blue-tailed colour morph is described.
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2015) -
Algyroides nigropunctatus kephallithacius wurde bisland für die Süd-Ionischen Inseln Kefalonia, Lefkada und Ithaka beschrieben. Neuere Informationen deuten darauf hin, dass diese Unterart auch auf dem angrenzenden Festland – der Region Akarnanien – vorkommt. Die Autoren berichten über ihre Beobachtungen auf Kefalonia, Lefkada und in Ätolien-Akarnanien. Es wird zudem die Frage einer Kontaktzone und möglicher Hybridisierung zwischen der Unterart kephallithacius und der Nominatform diskutiert.
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2016) -
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2018) -
Der Artikel berichtet über eine bislang unbeschriebene „gestreifte Form“ von Podarcis liolepis im Süden Spaniens und diskutiert deren taxonomischen Status. Anschließend werden Rückschlüsse auf das Verbreitungsgebiet von Podarcis liolepis in Südost-Spanien gezogen und Unterscheidungskriterien zu den benachbarten Arten beschrieben.
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2019) -
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2021) -
Oefinger, B. & Oefinger, P. (2022) -
Oefinger, P. (2017) -
Der Artikel geht auf die Schwierigkeiten bei der Abgrenzung von Podarcis vaucheri gegenüber Podarcis virescens anhand äußerer Merkmale ein und setzt sich mit der 2011 veröffentlichten Entdeckung der genetischen Linie “South Central Spain” auseinander. Anschließend wird der aktuelle Kenntnisstand zur Verbreitung von Podarcis vaucheri auf der Iberischen Halbinsel, insbesondere im Südosten Spaniens, diskutiert.
Der Artikel geht auf die verschiedenen genetischen Linien bei Podarcis hispanicus (sensu stricto) ein. Diskutiert werden der „Galera Type“ sowie der „Albacete-Murcia-Type“. Im Ergebnis werden Schlüsse auf das Verbreitungsgebiet von Podarcis hispanicus (sensu stricto) gezogen, welches sich offenbar weiter nach Nordwesten erstreckt als bislang angenommen.
Ogedov, D.O. & Korchagin, V.I. & Martirosyan, I.A. (2021) -
Ogérien, Le Frère (1863) -
Oguma, K. (1934) -
Oguz, M.A. (2022) -
Ohio Division of Wildlife (2008) -
Ohnmais (1912) -
Ohno, M. (1968) -
In 1967, the author conducted a herpetolog cal survey of the islands of Niijima, Shikinejima, and Kozushima, which belong to the Izu island chain of Japan. The harpetological fauna of thes islands is very poor, and no amphibians occur, but the author confirmed the occurrence of 4 species of reptiles belonging to 3 families, as listed below. Colubridae 1. Elaphe quadrivirgata (Boie, 1826) (Niijima, Kozushima). 2. Elaphe climacophora (Boie, 1826) (Niijima, Kozushima). Scincdae 3. Eumeces okadae Stejneger, 1907 (Niijima, Shikinejima, Kozushima). Lacertidae 4. Takydromus tachydromoides (Schlegel, 1838) (Kozushima).
Ohshima, K. & Hirai, S. & Nishida, A. & Hiramatsu, K. (1999) -
The fine structure and immunocytochemical localization of serotonin in the cells of the receptor line were studied in the parietal eye and pineal organ proper of the Japanese grass lizard, Takydromus tachydromoides. Typical photoreceptor cells (PC) were the predominant cell type in the receptor line of the parietal eye, the outer segments of which had regular stacks of numerous disks similar to those of cones. The pineal organ contained relatively few PCs, which showed less well-developed outer segments than those of the parietal eye. In contrast, rudimentary photoreceptor cells (SRPC) accounted for the majority of receptor cells in the pineal organ. These cells were structurally characterized by whorl-like lamellar outer segments and numerous dense-cored vesicles (80–280 nm in diameter). A small number of SRPC were also found in the parietal retina, which were similar to those in the pineal organ. In the parietal–pineal complex, numerous mitochondria located in the PC were larger and rounder than those in the SRPC. In the PC, basal processes prossessed only synaptic ribbons, whereas in the SRPC some of these processes contained synaptic ribbons and others contained dense-cored vesicles, rarely having both. Serotonin-immunoreactive cells were found not only in the pineal organ but also in the parietal eye, which closely resembled the cells of the receptor line in their size and shape. Furthermore, on immunoelectron microscopy for serotonin using the protein A-gold technique, gold particles indicating serotonin-immunoreactive sites were restricted in the core of dense-cored vesicles in the SRPC of the pineal organ. Regional differences in the distributions of the PC, SRPC and serotonin-immunoreactivity were found in the parietal-pineal complex.
Oka, T. (1973) -
Oka, T. (1981) -
Oka, T. (1984) -
Oka, T. (1989) -
Oka, T. & Fujawara, M. (1973) -
Okada, Y. (1933) -
Oksche, A. & Kirschstein, H. (1968) -
The parietal eye and the pineal organ (epiphysis cerebri) of the lizards, Lacerta sicula campestris, Lacerta vivipara, Lacerta agilis, Anguis fragilis and Iguana iguana, have been studied by means of electron microscopy. The ultrastructure of the parietal eye and pineal receptor cells is compared. The long outer segments of the parietal eye appear normal and show regular stacks of discs. In the pineal organ some of the short outer segments are essentially normal, but there are many disorganized and degenerated outer segment structures. Separation of discs and transformation into tubules and vesicles, whorllike structures or membrane-bounded and vesicle-filled compartments are very abundant. In addition, some rudimentary or anlage-like (renewal ?) forms of the outer segment were observed. Attention should be given to some interspecific and ontogenetic differences. Different types of dense-core vesicles were found in (1) the epithelial and pinealocyte-like parenchymal cells and (2) the unmyelinated nerve fibers of the lacertilian pineal organs. The pineal problem is discussed in view of these findings and the electrophysiological results of Dodtet al.
Öktem, N. (1963) -
Okuyama, K. & Sakuma, Y. & Sasaki, T. (2021) -
The Japanese grass lizard, Takydromus tachydromoides, is a species endemic to Japan. While several studies have investigated the reproductive ecology of T. tachydromoides, the embryogenesis of this species has not been reported in detail. In the current study, we observed the external morphological characteristics of 247 embryo specimens that developed under a constant temperature (28°C) throughout the duration from oviposition to hatching. We identified 17 consecutive developmental stages for the postovipositional developmental process of this species based on the staging criteria that have been widely used for the description of embryogenesis of lizards. The youngest embryos on the day of oviposition corresponded to stage 26, which is a relatively early period in pharyngula stages, and juveniles hatched at stage 42, approximately 30 days after oviposition. The entire developmental sequence of key morphological features was shared with other species of Lacertidae, except for the timing of the beginning of the first body pigmentation. This is the first description of the complete sequence of postovipositional developmental stages for the oviparous species of Lacertidae, providing valuable information for further evolutionary developmental studies.
Okuyama, K. & Sasaki, T. (2021) -
Squamate reptiles rely on the vomeronasal organ for chemoperception of their environment. This organ functionally associates with several structures, such as the nasolacrimal duct and choanal groove, which are morphologically diverse among species. In this study, we investigated the morphological characteristics and embryogenesis of the vomeronasal organ and its associated structures in the Japanese Grass Lizard (Takydromus tachydromoides). Separation of the complex of the nasolacrimal duct from the vomeronasal organ was observed in this species, a characteristic morphological feature among squamates. Additionally, we integrated the morphological characteristics of the vomeronasal organ and associated structures among squamates, focusing on topological relationships among the structures. The parsimony and likelihood methods for ancestral state reconstruction suggested the parallelism of several morphological characteristics during the evolutionary history of squamates: loss or reduction of the choanal groove, fusion between the nasolacrimal duct and choanal groove, and separation of the nasolacrimal duct from the vomeronasal organ.
Olesen, J.M. & Valido, A. (2003) -
Recent data demonstrate that flower-visiting and fruitconsuming lizards are strikingly more common on islands compared with the mainland, making them a true island phenomenon. We believe that different DC responses of insular animals might create this phenomenon. However, to confirm this we need more systematic data sampling from mainland and island. Some lizard -plant interactions might be excellent systems with which to study mutualism and potential coevolution between interacting plants and animals, (e.g. Phelsuma -flower mutualisms and Gallotia -fruit mutualisms). In particular, we need more experimental studies to demonstrate lizards that could cause evolutionary changes in flower and fruit traits in island plants. Many island lizard taxa are threatened by extinction or have already disappeared. The importance of mutualisms between plant-feeding lizards and flowering plants add very strong arguments to more joint conservation efforts for these groups of organisms.
Olesen, J.M. & Valido, A. (2004) -
Ecological and evolutionary interactions between island plants and animals are taken in account. Species dispersing over long distances to remote oceanic islands leave their mainland food web behind. If colonizers are able to fit into the new insular food web in their receiver habitats they become established. This new insular webs include some interactions which are uncommon on the mainland: lizards and birds act as pollinators and seed dispersers more often than was believed until a few years ago. These animals become plant mutualists through a simple series of processess: Low species density on islands leads to relaxed interspecific competition, niche widening and high abundances of some species. The wider niche of predominantly arthropod-eating lizards and birds include nectar, pollen and fruit.
Olgun, K. (1999) -
In this study, the feeding behaviours of the new hatched eggs which were laid to the terrarium by one of the 18 Lacerta laevis samples collected from Mersin (Findikpinari) were observed and the development of these eggs over 103 days period were investigated. In conclusion the number of the eggs laid by one of the lizards were six, the mean size of eggs were 8.03 x 12.25 mm. and the mean body length of the young, that were hatched after 47 days, was 77.77 mm. at the first day and was 89.14 mm. at the end of 56 th day.
Olgun, K. & Tok, C.V. (1999) -
In this study, a total of 30 specimens (15 , 15 ) collected from Ihlara Valley were examined for their taxonomic characteristics. The Ihlara population was compared with two nearby populations (Kayseri and Karaman), which are included in the distribution range of Ophisops elegans centralanatoliae. When pholidosis, coloration and pattern features were taken into consideration it was concluded that the Ihlara population can be included in the species Ophisops elegans centralanatoliae.
Oliva, O. (1950) -
Oliveira, M. & Bologna, M.A. & Mariottini, P. (1998) -
Oliveira, M. & Burke, R. & Bologna, M. & Wirz, A. & Mariottini, P. (2001) -
Abstract The wall lizard Podarcis sicula has been introduced in many locations outside its native range. Partial sequences from the 12S rDNA, that had proved diagnostic for the three main subspecies, were used to test specimens from marginal native and from intro duced American populations. The mitochondrial haplotype of a specimen from Apulia, traditionally ascribed to P. s. campestris, belongs to the P. s. sicula gene-pool. Specimens from a P. s. sicu la - P. s. campestris boundary area (southern Latium), with transi tional morphology but P. s. sicula-like ecology, show mitochondrial haplotypes clearly of the campestris type. The mitochondrial hap-lotypes of the American specimens (from Kansas and New York), that originated from captive stocks, were included in a P. s. campestris clade. A definitive assessment of the status of both na tive and introduced populations will require the use of nuclear markers.
Oliveira, N.M. & Amaral, J.P. do (2006) -
Oliverio, M. & Bologna, M.A. & Mariottini, P. (2000) -
Aim We discuss biogeographical hypotheses for the Mediterranean lizard species Podarcis and Teira within a phylogenetic framework based on partial mitochondrial DNA sequences. Methods We derived the most likely phylogenetic hypothesis from our data set (597 aligned positions from the 12S rDNA and phenyl tRNA) under parsimony, distance and maximum likelihood assumptions. Results The species usually included in Teira do not form a strongly monophyletic clade. In contrast, the monophyly of the genus Podarcis is rather well supported. Seven lineages are identified in the genus; in order of appearance within the tree, these are: the Balearic pityusensis and lilfordi pair, the sicula complex, a Tyrrhenian tiliguerta and raffonei pair, muralis, the Siculo-Maltese filfolensis and wagleriana pair, the Balkan group (erhardi, peloponnesiaca, milensis, melisellensis and taurica), and the Ibero-Maghrebian group (bocagei, atrata, hispanica and vaucheri). Conclusions The origin of the three European genera of lacertid assayed (Lacerta, Teira and Podarcis) is hypothesized to have occurred in the Oligocene. For Podarcis, a possible scenario of a Miocene diversification is derived from the sequence data, and the zoogeography of the lineages are discussed in relation to the palaeogeography of the Mediterranean. It is hypothesized that in the early history of the genus the main lineages separated by rapid, numerous and close events that produced a starting point very similar to a polytomy, hard to resolve by parsimony analysis of the data set.
Oliverio, M. & Bologna, M.A. & Mariottini, P. & Annesi, F. & Mariottini, P. (1998) -
Phylogenetic relationships within the Italian species of the lacertid genus Podarcis were examined by parsimony analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences from the genes encoding the small ribosomal RNA and the phenyl transfer RNA. Lacerta viridis was used as outgroup and Teira dugesii was also included in the ingroup. The 80 phylogenetically informative positions produced four most parsimonious trees, with the Italian Podarcis split into three groups: the first comprised P. filfolensis, P. melisellensis. P. wagleriaria, P. muralis, and P. raffonei, the second P. sicula with its various subspecies. The third lineage was that of P. tiliguerta, whose relationships were resolved as more closely related to the first clade, when weighting transversion three times transitions. Bootstrap analyses on a subset of sequences representing all species herein studied, supported the results from the larger dataset. The present results are only partly in agreement with previous hypotheses based on morphology, immunology, and allozyme variation analyses.
Olivier, A. & Smith, H. & Santos, R. & Tatin, L. & Espuno, N. & Arnal, V. & Montgelard, C. & Miaud, C. (2017) -
Olivier, E. (1896) -
Olivier, E. (1903) -
Olmedo, G. (1997) -
Olmedo, G. & Lázaro, R. & Mellado, J. (1985) -
Olmo, E. (1981) -
The evolution of genome size and base composition of DNA from various reptiles has been studied. DNA amount was measured cytophotometrically and GC concentration estimated by thermal denaturation. The Reptilia appear to be a fairly homogeneous group with respect to DNA quantity, although chelonians stand out because of their higher inter- and intrafamilial variability and DNA content. Quantitative DNA variations do not show a single evolutionary trend, but rather seem to have followed different patterns within each group. The differences in genome size between related species seem to be mainly the result of duplication or loss of DNA sequences characterized by a similar mean denaturation temperature. This agrees with observations of other authors that quantitative variations in reptiles are mainly due to differences in the amount of repetitive DNA. Several hypotheses on the significance of quantitative DNA variations in reptiles are discussed.
Olmo, E. & Aprea, G. & Arriba, O.J. & Barucca, M. & Canapa, A. & Capriglione, T. & Bosch, H. in den & Odierna, G. (2004) -
Olmo, E. & Aprea, G. & Barucca, M. & Canapa, A. & Capriglione, T. & in den Bosch, H. & G. Odierna (2001) -
Olmo, E. & Cobror, O. & Morecalchi, A. & Odierna, G. (1984) -
A new case of female heterogamety has been described in Takydromus sexlineatus. In this species the W-chromosome has the same morphology as the Z-chromosome, but differs from it in being heterochromatic and C-banding positive. This situation is similar to that found in some snakes, and is considered by some investigators as a primitive step in the differentiation of sex chromosomes. This suggests that the mechanisms involved in sex chromosomes differentiation in lizards may be the same as those suggested for snakes.
Olmo, E. & Odiena, G. & Capriglione, T. (1993) -
Olmo, E. & Odierna, G. & Capriglione, T. (1987) -
The occurrence and form of sex chromosomes were investigated with the aid of C-banding and 4′-6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining in 13 species of lacertid lizards. The results obtained show the presence in five species of a female heterogamety in which the two sex chromosomes have the same shape and size, but the W differs from the Z in being almost entirely heterochromatic. This condition is clearly similar to that found in some snakes and considered to be an early stage of differentiation of sex chromosomes by Singh et al. (1976, 1980). A more evolved condition may be that found in three other species in which the W is distinctly smaller than the Z. A third situation is that found in all Podarcis species which, even though they are considered to be among the more evolved species in the family, possess two sex chromosomes that are indistinguishable. In general, the situation in lacertids may be compatible with the hypothesis of sex chromosome evolution put forward by Singh et al. (1976, 1980). However a differentiation mechanism of this kind does not seem to be well established in lacertids, and is probably not the only mechanism that is in operation in this family.
Olmo, E. & Odierna, G. & Capriglione, T. & in den Bosch, H.A.J. (2001) -
Olmo, E. & Odierna, G. & Capriglione, T. & In den Bosch, H.A.J. & Caputo, V. (2001) -
Olmo, E. & Odierna, G. & Cobror, O. (1985) -
Chromosomal inter- and intraspecific variation in Lacertidae. The karyology of various species from the family Lacertidae (Reptilia, Sauria) has been studied with conventional and C-banding techniques. The study shows that this family is not so conservative from a karyological viewpoint as considered til! now. In fact supernumerary chromosomes have been observed in two of the species investigated. Moreover an inter- and intraspecific variability has been found in the C-banding pattern of the various species studied. The situation found in Podarcis sicula is particularly remarkable. Different Cbanding patterns have been observed in three different subspecies and in two populations of the same subspecies. The C-banding technique evidences also the existence in some of the species studied of a female sex heteromorphism, in which the W chromosomes is completely heterochromatic. These observations suggest that in lacertid lizards the evolution of the sex chromosomes follows the same steps hypothesized for snakes.
Olmo, E. & Odierna, G. & Cobror, O. (1986) -
The karyology of various species from the family Lacertidae (Reptilia, Sauria) has been studied with conventional and C-banding techniques. The study shows that this family is not so conservative from a karyological viewpoint as considered till now. In fact a higher diploid number than that generally observed in most species of Lacertidae and supernumerary chromosomes have been observed in three of the species investigated. Moreover an evident interand intraspecific variability has been found in the C-banding pattern of the various species studied. The situation found in Podarcis sicula is particularly remarkable. Different C-banding patterns have been observed in three different subspecies and in two populations of the same subspecies. These variations do not show a well defined trend and their role in the evolution of lacertid lizards is discussed. The C-banding analysis evidences also the existence in two of the species studied of a female sex heteromorphism, in which the W chromosome has the same shape and size as the Z, but differs from it in being completely heterochromatic. This situation reminds that observed in some snakes and suggests that in lacertid lizards the evolution of sex chromosomes might have followed the same steps previously hypothesized for ophidians.
Olmo, E. & Odierna, G. & Morescalchi, A. & Caputo, V. & in den Bosch, H. (2001) -
Olmo, E. & Taddei, C. (1974) -
Dallo studio comparato sul contenuto di DNA dei vari tipi di cellule follicolari dellaLacerta sicula, è emerso che il nucleo delle cellule piriformi e di quelle intermedie presenta un contenuto diploide di DNA, e che solo una parte delle cellule follicolari piccole raggiunge dei valori superiori. L`attività delle cellule piriformi, in diretta connessione con l`ovocita attraverso ponti citoplasmatici, è sotto il controllo di un genoma diploide.
Olsson, M. (1986) -
Generalizations about spacing patterns and mating systems operating in lacertids have been based on few studies, sometimes even with contradictory results. In the sand lizard for exmple, previous investigations have indicated a/ non-overlapping home ranges with occasional defence of boundaries and foraging routes i.e. territorially, /Simms, 1970/ and b/ overlapping home ranges with no defence or defence only of par- ticular sites /Smith, 1969; Terlyshnikov, 1970/. The aim of this study is to clarify the spacing pattern and mating system operating in a population of sand lizards. Fights between males are common and Bisehoff /1984/ concludes that male sand lizards are territorial and in no way hierarchical. Female fights occur but seem to be rare events /Kitzler, 1942; SjBgren, 1976/.
Olsson, M. (1988) -
Olsson, M. (1992) -
Olsson, M. (1993) -
Male sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) are polygynous and guard individual females for several hours to days after copulation. Even though the copulation itself only lasts 2–4 min, the total time that a male invests per female is considerably more and may constitute a substantial investment during a mating season. In such situations, when male copulation frequency is constrained, or when variation in female fecundity is high, mate choice by males may be adaptive. Large body size in female sand lizards is correlated with higher fecundity. In choice experiments performed in the laboratory, male sand lizards preferred to court large females rather than small females. In addition, when there was little difference in size between the females in the experiment, the males visited the two females more often before they started to court the preferred female. The results from a field study during 1984 and 1987–1990 showed that females are non-aggressive, have small neighboring home ranges (c. 100 m2) and may share burrows and sites for thermoregulation. This means that females can be found close together and thus gives males the opportunity to choose a mate. Assortative mating with respect to size was observed in a natural population, as well as a limited number of direct choices of females by males. These results support the results of the choice experiment.
The aim of my study is to test the assumption that male nuptial coloration in the sand lizard carries a cost in terms of increased risk of predation. In the sand lizard, mature males develop conspicuously bright green colours on the sides of the body during the mating season. This nuptial coloration is an important element in male display during contests, leading to sexual selection in natural populations. Sexual selection often explains the evolution of costly extravagant traits by conferring relative fitness advantages, predominantly in males. As conspicuousness increases with the size of the trait, so does predation, and at an optimal trait size the increase is expected to be halted.
Olsson, M. (1994) -
In the sexually dichromatic sand lizard the area of the nuptial green coloration in males is allometrically related to body mass, and males with higher fighting ability have more saturated nuptial colours. Experiments in the laboratory showed that the extent of the bright nuptial coloration in males affects their contest behaviour; manipulated males with more colour were more likely both to initiate contests and to win. Further, when manipulated males had badges of unequal size the contests were settled more quickly than when the badges were the same size. This predicts that superior fighters with larger badges should have higher mating success; this was confirmed by field studies of a natural population.
Individual male sand lizards meet repeatedly during mate search and engage in costly interactions. If males can recognize rivals, the number of costly fights with a predictable outcome may be reduced. In staged contests between males, second interactions are on average significantly shorter than first ones, suggesting individual recognition. When aggressive behavior differs substantially between the sexes, the more aggressive sex may be predicted to have more variation in skin traits located on the parts of the body displayed during contests; this would facilitate individual recognition. Male (aggressive) sand lizards are more variable in two of three lateral skin traits displayed during males` contests, while females (non-aggressive) are more variable in one dorsal skin trait; in four other dorsal traits there was no difference in variability between the sexes.
Sexual selection theory and game theory posit that cues to mate quality and fighting ability should be costly to be honest. Male sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) consider a rival`s nuptial coloration when making strategic decisions in contests, and in this paper I examine five mechanisms (both proximate and ultimate ones) that could constrain male nuptial coloration. Three of these mechanisms were rejected as potential constraints on male nuptial coloration: testosterone, predation, and parasites. Two mechanisms could not be rejected as constraints on male pigmentation: differential allocation of energy to reproduction versus somatic growth among males, and social costs due to high aggression from conspecific males.
Olsson, M. & Andersson, S. & Wapstra, E. (2011) -
Background: Recent work on animal signals has revealed a wide occurrence of UV signals in tetrapods, in particular birds, but also in lizards (and perhaps other Squamate reptiles). Our previous work on the Swedish sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) has verified, both in correlative selection analyses in the wild and with laboratory and field experiments, the importance of the green ‘badge’ on the body sides of adult males for securing mating opportunities, probably mostly through deterring rival males rather than attracting females. The role of UV in communication has, however, never been examined. Methodology/Principal Findings: Here we show that when measured immediately after spring skin shedding, there is also signaling in the UV. By UV-depriving the signal (reflectance) with sun block chemicals fixated with permeable, harmless spray dressing, we show that males in the control group (spray dressing only) had significantly higher success in mate acquisition than UV-deprived males. Conclusions/Significance: These results suggest that at least two colour traits in sand lizards, badge area and UV, contribute to rival deterrence and/or female choice on UV characters, which elevates success in mate acquisition in UV intact male sand lizards.
Olsson, M. & Bererhi, B. & Miller, E. & Schwartz, T. & Rollings, N. & Lindsay, W. & Wapstra, E. (2022) -
Telomeres are nucleotide-protein caps, predominantly at the ends of Metazoan linear chromosomes, showing complex dynamics with regard to their lengthening and shortening through life. Their complexity has entertained the idea that net telomere length and attrition could be valuable biomarkers of phenotypic and genetic quality of their bearer. Intuitively, those individuals could be more heterozygous and, hence, less inbred. However, some inbred taxa have longer, not shorter, telomeres. To understand the role of inbreeding in this complex scenario we need large samples across a range of genotypes with known maternity and paternity in telomere-screened organisms under natural conditions. We assessed the effects of parental and hatchling inbreeding on telomere length in >1300 offspring from >500 sires and dams in a population of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis). Maternal and paternal ID and their interactions predict hatchling telomere length at substantial effect sizes (R2 > .50). Deviation from mean maternal heterozygosity statistically predicts shorter offspring telomeres but this only when sibship is controlled for by paternal ID, and then is still limited (R2 = .06). Raw maternal heterozygosity scores, ignoring absolute deviation from the mean, explained 0.07% of the variance in hatchling telomere length. In conclusion, inbreeding is not a driver of telomere dynamics in the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) study system.
Olsson, M. & Gullberg, A. & Shine, R. & Madsen, T. & Tegelström, H. (1996) -
Olsson, M. & Gullberg, A. & Tegelstrom, H. (1994) -
Sperm competition between males will occur when more than one male successfully inseminates a single female and the viable sperm from different males compete for fertilization of that female`s egg(s). The fertilization success of males may depend on at least two factors: the viability of sperm over time, and whether males can prevent other males from fertilizing eggs in subsequent copulations. In this study on the sand lizard, sperm did not survive in the female reproductive tract between ovulations, and sterilized males did not lower the probability of paternity for males in a second copulation occurring within 24 h. Using a genetic marker trait and DNA fingerprinting, we confirmed that multiple inseminations of different fully fertile males led to multiple paternity among offspring. The results provide evidence suggesting that neither mating order nor time between copulations has any impact on the reproductive success of first or last males.
Olsson, M. & Gullberg, A. & Tegelstrom, H. (1995) -
We investigated factors that may determine mate guarding tactics in male sand lizards. In a sample of lizards from a museum collection, larger males had larger testis, but in laboratory experiments and in a natural population larger males did not sire more offspring. Males with long inter-copulatory intervals were more successful in sperm competition than males with short inter-copulatory intervals. In the wild, the operational sex ratio (OSR, No of receptive females/No of sexually active males) declined throughout the mating season. Mean duration of mate guardings was unaffected by OSR, time to ovulation, female age and mass, and clutch size. Larger males guarded females longer and were more likely to mate guard a female of similar age. Larger males had more partners but there was no correlation between male size or guarding time and the proportion of young that males sired in clutches from females mated with several partners. Males with more partners were more successful at siring offspring in clutches from females that mated with more than one partner. We suggest that fitter males are better at both mate acquisition and have more competitive sperm.
Olsson, M. & Gullberg, A. & Tegelstrom, H. (1996) -
We demonstrated that sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) are more likely to have malformed offspring when they mate with siblings. Offspring with malformations, such as deformed limbs and heads, have zero survival in a natural population. Normal-looking siblings of malformed hatchlings also had a reduced survival in the wild, compared to offspring from clutches in which all siblings appeared normal. The proportion of malformed hatchlings in the natural population was ca. 10%, in spite of differences in juvenile dispersal between males and females. Male juveniles disperse significantly further from their natal sites than do female juveniles.
Olsson, M. & Gullberg, A. & Tegelstrom, H. (1997) -
We studied determinants of breeding dispersal (the distance that an animal shifts its mean home range co-ordinate between reproductive events) in an individually marked population of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) in south west Sweden during 1987–1991. Female breeding dispersal was not determined by age, size, body condition, or number of partners, and females and males that dispersed further did not experience a higher mortality. However, females with a low reproductive output dispersed further than females that reproduced more successfully, and males that lost in bodily condition dispersed further than males that better maintained body condition. We also looked for relationships between age-differences and band-sharing similarity (DNA fingerprinting = DFP) in three categories of lizards — all females, all males, and males and females — to establish whether males would be likely to mate with close kin. Age-difference was strongly correlated with band-sharing in only one category, males and females. When males were older than females this relationship was not significant. However, when females were older than males, age-difference was strongly correlated with band-sharing. Furthermore, females that were old enough to be the mothers of the courting males shared significantly more bands with these males than did the younger females, including the females of the same age as the males. Although parental-specific DFP bands necessary for establishing paternity among our adult lizards were inaccessible to us, we suggest that our circumstantial evidence strongly suggests that some males mate with their mothers. Males that were more closely related with their neighbours also moved further when we controlled statistically for age and mating success. We suggest that by mating with many partners males not only increase their mating success, but also increase the probability of mating with females with `good genes`: mean heterozygosity of parents (as revealed by micro-satellites) were strongly correlated with offspring survival.
Olsson, M. & Loeb, L. & Lindsay, W. & Wapstra, E. & Fitzpatrick, L. & Shine, R. (2018) -
Most oviparous squamate reptiles lay their eggs when embryos have completed less than one‐third of development, with the remaining two‐thirds spent in an external nest. Even when females facultatively retain eggs in dry or cold conditions, such retention generally causes only a minor (<10%) decrease in subsequent incubation periods. In contrast, we found that female sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) from an experimentally founded field population (established ca. 20 years ago on the southwest coast of Sweden) exhibited wide variation in incubation periods even when the eggs were kept at standard (25°C) conditions. Females that retained eggs in utero for longer based on the delay between capture and oviposition produced eggs that hatched sooner. In the extreme case, eggs hatched after only 55% of the “normal” incubation period. Although the proximate mechanisms underlying this flexibility remain unclear, our results from this first full field season at the new study site show that females within a single cold‐climate population of lizards can span a substantial proportion of the continuum from “normal” oviparity to viviparity.
Olsson, M. & Madsen, T. (1995) -
Female choice on the basis of male traits has been described in an array of taxa but has rarely been demonstrated in reptiles. In the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis), and possibly in other non-territorial reptiles, a male`s contribution to a female`s fitness is restricted to his genes. In order to choose males of high genetic quality, females have to trade the fitness gain against the costs of active choice. In a Swedish population of sand lizards, long-lived males sired offspring with higher embryonic survival compared to offspring sired by short-lived males. In spite of this female sand lizards did not mate selectively with older and/or larger males. There appeared to be mo reliable cues to male longevity; age-specific male body size was highly variable. Furthermore, estimates of male nuptial coloration did not covary with ectoparasite load and, hence, females cannot use male coloration as a cue to heritable resistance to pathogenic parasite effects. When cues to male genetic quality are poor, or inaccurate, and males make no parental investment, we predict that female choice will be rare. Sand lizard females mating with many partners lay clutches with higher hatching success. Thus, females may obtain good genes for their young by multiple mating, thereby avoiding costs associated with mate choice.
Olsson, M. & Madsen, T. (1996) -
Olsson, M. & Madsen, T. (2001) -
1. Life-history theory predicts that clutch size and offspring size should evolve to an optimal offspring size vs number (OSN) equilibrium. 2. Offspring size in Swedish Sand Lizards (Lacerta agilis) decreases up to 60% during a female`s life with a concomitant increase in clutch size; why do female Sand Lizards not produce an offspring of approximately equal size through life, while adjusting clutch size in accordance with available resources? 3. Our results show that there is year-to-year variation in what factors determine female reproductive success, estimated by the number or proportion of recruits into the second year cohort. 4. In a year with relatively poor female growth rate, poor female condition and probably relatively low potential for resource acquisition, females mating with many partners did relatively better than females mating with fewer partners. 5. In the poor year, relatively larger offspring survived better than smaller ones. 6. In a year with relatively high resource levels, females producing both relatively large young and large clutches were favoured by selection. 7. Depending on environmental conditions, female `optimal tactics` may differ between episodes of selection.
Olsson, M. & Madsen, T. & Nordby, J. & Wapstra, E. & Ujvari, B. & Wittzell, H. (2003) -
n mice and man, females prefer males with a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genotype different to their own. We tested whether this phenomenon also occurs in the Swedish sand lizard (Lacerta agilis). Females in a laboratory experiment preferred to associate with odour samples obtained from more distantly related males at the MHC class 1 loci. Data on free-ranging lizards suggest that associations between males and females are nonrandom with respect to MHC genotype. However, male spatial distribution and mobility during the mating season suggest that the non-random pairing process in the wild may also be driven by corresponding genetic benefits to males pairing with less related females.
Olsson, M. & Madsen, T. & Ujvari, B. & Wapstra, E. (2004) -
AbstractWe demonstrate that extending copulation enhances probability of paternity in sand lizards and that determinants of copulation duration depend on a males` mating order (first or second). First males, with no information on presence of rivals, extend copulation when mating with a more fecund female. Second males, however, adjust copula duration in relation to a first male`s relatedness with his female, which there is reason to believe can be deduced from the MHC-related odor of the copulatory plug. Male-female relatedness negatively influences a male`s probability of paternity, and when second males are in a favored role (i.e., the first male is the one more closely related to the female), second males transfer larger ejaculates, resulting in higher probability of paternity. This result corroborates predictions from recent theoretical models on sperm expenditure theory incorporating cryptic female choice and sexual conflict. More specifically, the results conform to a `random roles` model, which depicts males as being favored by some females and disfavored by others, but not to a `constant-type` model, in which a male is either favored or disfavored uniformly by all females in a population.
Olsson, M. & Madsen, T. & Wapstra, E. & Silverin, B. & Ujvari, B. & Wittzell, H. (2005) -
`Good genes` are genetic elements that contribute to lifetime reproductive success, regardless of an individual`s additional genotype. Their existence is debated, and most work has targeted their viability benefits to the offspring of choosy females. In the present study, we analyze a case of potential good genes effects in adult male sand lizards (Lacerta agilis). We show that males with a particular RFLP (Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism) MHC genotype (O-males), as opposed to those that lack this genetic element (NO-males), have less ectoparasites under increasing physiological stress (indexed by baseline corticosterone level), and are not constrained by parasites at production of status coloration. Furthermore, O-males are more successful at mate acquisition and guard their partners longer. Ultimately, they have a higher genetic reproductive success as assigned by microsatellites.
Olsson, M. & Pauliny, A. & Wapstra, E. & Blomqvist, D. (2010) -
Telomeres are repeat sequences of non-coding DNA that cap the ends of chromosomes and contribute to their stability and the genomic integrity of cells. In evolutionary ecology, the main research target regarding these genomic structures has been their role in ageing and as a potential index of age. However, research on humans shows that a number of traits contribute to among-individual differences in telomere length, in particular traits enhancing cell division and genetic erosion, such as levels of free radicals and stress. In lizards, tail loss owing to predation attempts results in a stress-induced shift to a more cryptic lifestyle. In sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) males, telomere length was compromised by tail regrowth in a body size-related manner, so that small males, which already exhibit more cryptic mating tactics, were less affected than larger males. Tail regrowth just fell short of having a significant relationship with telomere length in females, and so did age in males. In females, there was a significant positive relationship between age and telomere length. We conclude that the proximate effect of compromisedantipredation and its associated stress seems to have a more pronounced effect in males than in females and that age-associated telomere dynamics differ between the sexes.
Olsson, M. & Pauliny, A. & Wapstra, E. & Uller, T. & Schwartz, T. & Blomqvist, D. (2011) -
Background To date, the only estimate of the heritability of telomere length in wild populations comes from humans. Thus, there is a need for analysis of natural populations with respect to how telomeres evolve. Methodology/Principal Findings Here, we show that telomere length is heritable in free-ranging sand lizards, Lacerta agilis. More importantly, heritability estimates analysed within, and contrasted between, the sexes are markedly different; son-sire heritability is much higher relative to daughter-dam heritability. We assess the effect of paternal age on Telomere Length (TL) and show that in this species, paternal age at conception is the best predictor of TL in sons. Neither paternal age per se at blood sampling for telomere screening, nor corresponding age in sons impact TL in sons. Processes maintaining telomere length are also associated with negative fitness effects, most notably by increasing the risk of cancer and show variation across different categories of individuals (e.g. males vs. females). We therefore tested whether TL influences offspring survival in their first year of life. Indeed such effects were present and independent of sex-biased offspring mortality and offspring malformations. Conclusions/Significance TL show differences in sex-specific heritability with implications for differences between the sexes with respect to ongoing telomere selection. Paternal age influences the length of telomeres in sons and longer telomeres enhance offspring survival.
Olsson, M. & Pauliny, A. & Wapstra, E. & Uller, T. & Schwartz, T. & Miller, E. & Blomqvist, D. (2011) -
Telomere length is restored primarily through the action of the reverse transcriptase telomerase, which may contribute to a prolonged lifespan in some but not all species and may result in longer telomeres in one sex than the other. To what extent this is an effect of proximate mechanisms (e.g. higher stress in males, higher oestradiol/oestrogen levels in females), or is an evolved adaptation (stronger selection for telomere length in one sex), usually remains unknown. Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) females have longer telomeres than males and better maintain telomere length through life than males do. We also show that telomere length more strongly contributes to life span and lifetime reproductive success in females than males and that telomere length is under sexually diversifying selection in the wild. Finally, we performed a selection analysis with number of recruited offspring into the adult population as a response variable with telomere length, life span and body size as predictor variables. This showed significant differences in selection pressures between the sexes with strong ongoing selection in females, with these three predictors explaining 63% of the variation in recruitment. Thus, the sexually dimorphic telomere dynamics with longer telomeres in females is a result of past and ongoing selection in sand lizards. Finally, we compared the results from our selection analyses based on Telometric-derived data to the results based on data generated by the software ImageJ. ImageJ resulted in shorter average telomere length, but this difference had virtually no qualitative effect on the patterns of ongoing selection.
Olsson, M. & Schwartz, T. & Wapstra, E. & Uller, T. & Ujvari, B. & Madsen, T. & Shine, R. (2011) -
Olsson, M. & Schwartz, T.S. & Wapstra, E. & R. Shine (2019) -
Behavioural ecologists often use data on patterns of male–female association to infer reproductive success of free-ranging animals. For example, a male seen with several females during the mating season is predicted to father more offspring than a male not seen with any females. We explored the putative correlation between this behaviour and actual paternity (as revealed by microsatellite data) from a long-term study on sand lizards (Lacerta agilis), including behavioural observations of 574 adult males and 289 adult females, and paternity assignment of more than 2500 offspring during 1998–2007. The number of males that contributed paternity to a female’s clutch was correlated with the number of males seen accompanying her in the field, but not with the number of copulation scars on her body. The number of females that a male accompanied in the field predicted the number of females with whomhe fathered offspring, and his annual reproductive success (number of progeny). Although behavioural data explained less than one-third of total variance in reproductive success, our analysis supports the utility of behavioural-ecology studies for predicting paternity in free-ranging reptiles.
Olsson, M. & Severin, B. (1997) -
Sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) have color vision which is most sensitive in the wavelengths that correspond to the male breeding coloration, and males with more green lateral breeding coloration (i.e., with larger `badges`) are more likely to win staged contests in the laboratory and have higher mating success in the wild. Olsson and Madsen demonstrated that female sand lizards do not choose males, so breeding colors are not sexually selected via female choice. Instead, males seem to use the green badge to facilitate the judgment of a rival`s fighting ability. The aim of this study was to investigate whether growth rate affects breeding coloration, independent of testosterone and body size.
We studied a population of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) near the northern edge of the species` range in coastal Sweden. We captured, marked, released and recaptured 98 adult female lizards over 5 years. Hatchlings from 146 laboratory-incubated clutches (1279 eggs) from field-caught gravid females were measured, weighed, marked and released at the study site. Female sand lizards usually laid only a single clutch of 4 to 15 eggs each year, but varied considerably in the time of year at which they laid their eggs. Oviposition dates shifted between years depending on weather (basking opportunities), but the relative timing of oviposition was consistent within a given female from year-to-year. The first females to oviposit each year were large animals in good physical condition, that had grown rapidly in previous years. `Early` clutches were larger than `later` clutches, had higher hatching success, and tended to have higher post-hatching survival rates. Offspring from early clutches were larger than `later` hatchlings, and differed in body proportions (probably because seasonal changes in maternal temperatures directly modified offspring phenotypes). Overall, our study documents several strong correlates of the timing of oviposition, and suggests that variation in this trait among females has strong fitness consequences, perhaps related to maternal `quality`. The correlations we observed between oviposition date and other traits that have been invoked as determinants of hatchling survival in reptiles (e.g., hatchling size, body shape, opportunities for multiple mating by the mother) suggest that hypotheses advocating simple causal connections between these traits and hatchling success should be viewed with caution.
Olsson, M. & Shine, R. (1996) -
Most data on determinants of reproductive success (RS) and reproductive tactics are correlational in nature, and hence cannot be used to infer causation. Consistent patterns-such as an increase in RS with age, as seen in many types of organisms-may result from diverse underlying mechanisms. Ontogenetic increases in RS in mammals and birds may be due largely to direct effects of age (via learning, etc.) but our analyses show that apparently analogous ontogenetic shifts in reproductive tactics and increases in RS in sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) are actually due to ontogenetic changes in body size. When size effects are removed, age exerts very little effect on either reproductive behaviour or RS in either sex. In many taxa, both age and body size may exert important effects on reproductive biology, and disentangling these effects should be a focus of further research.
Olsson, M. & Shine, R. (1997) -
Multiple mating affords female lizards of the species Lacerta agilis several advantages foremost among which is the protection against male infertility. Field observations and laboratory studies are conducted to determine the advantages of multiple mating to L. agilis females. Results indicate that multiple mating promotes the deposition of sperms with greater diversity thus increasing the chance of better-suited sperms to fertilize the eggs.
Olsson, M. & Shine, R. & Madsen, T. & Gullberg, A. & Tegelström, H. (1996) -
Olsson, M. & Shine, R. & Madsen, T. & Gullberg, A. & Tegelström, H. (1997) -
Olsson, M. & Ujvari, B. & Madsen, T. & Uller, T. & Wapstra, E. (2004) -
Haldane`s rule is one of the most widely applicable paradigms in evolutionary biology, stating that in species crossings, the heterogametic sex will suffer more severely in terms of sterility and inviability. We address this in a within-species outbreeding situation by assessing the risk of producing inviable offspring depending on the sex ratio of the clutch produced in between-population crossings in the laboratory. In crossings between male and female sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) from two different sampling regions, one in Sweden, one in central Europe, risk of gametic incompatibility is unaffected by outbreeding, but offspring from between-population crossings show 300% higher malformation frequency and 10% lower hatching success. The risk of having inviable offspring increases with the production of daughters, i.e. the hemizygous sex in this species (ZW). Such sex-specific genetic costs of offspring production need to be incorporated into life history ecology, e.g. sex allocation theory.
Olsson, M. & Wapstra, E. & Madsen, T. & Ujvari, B. & Rugfelt, C. (2005) -
Male sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) with a specific restriction fragment length polymorphism fragment in their major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genotype (‘O-males’) are more resistant to ectoparasites (a tick, Ixodes ricinus) than are males that lack this fragment (‘NO-males’). However, emerging evidence suggests that such adaptive immune responses are costly, here manifested by reduced body condition and a compromised defence against secondary infections by haemoprotid parasites that use the ticks as vectors. Subsequent to tick encounter, O-males suffer from a higher leucocyte–erythrocyte ratio, and higher haemoprotid parasitaemia, in particular in relation to vector encounter rate. Furthermore, O-males (i.e. successful tick defenders) with more haemoprotid parasites remaining in their blood stream were in better body condition, whereas this did not apply in NO-males, demonstrating that the adaptive immunoreaction can—in the short term—be energetically even more costly than being moderately parasitized. In agreement with Zahavian handicap theory, O-males had a (marginally) higher reproductive success than males that lacked this fragment.
Olsson, M. & Wapstra, E. & Olofsson, C. (2002) -
1. Aspects of female ‘offspring size vs number’ strategies were studied in the viviparous Common Lizard, Lacerta vivipara Jacquin, by surgical yolk extraction from ovarian follicles and ovulated eggs in the oviduct (‘allometric engineering’). 2. This method has previously been applied exclusively to oviparous lizards but here it is applied to a viviparous taxon. 3. There was a strong negative relationship between the amount of yolk removed and the size of offspring at birth, and yolk-removed young were smaller and in poorer condition at birth than their control counterparts from within the same litters. 4. In yolk-removed young physiological performance was positively correlated with body mass. 5. Maternalresourceprovisioningthusinfluencesoffspringphysiologicalperformance, which suggests ongoing selection on female optimization of the offspring size –number trade-off.
Olsson, M. & Wapstra, E. & Schwartz, T. & Madsen, T. & Ujvatri, B. & Uller, T. (2011) -
A changing climate is expected to have profound effects on many aspects of ectotherm biology. We report on a decade-long study of free-ranging sand lizards (Lacerta agilis), exposed to an increasing mean mating season temperature and with known operational sex ratios. We assessed year-to-year variation in sexual selection on body size and postcopulatory sperm competition and cryptic female choice. Higher temperature was not linked to strength of sexual selection on body mass, but operational sex ratio (more males) did increase the strength of sexual selection on body size. Elevated temperature increased mating rate and number of sires per clutch with positive effects on offspring fitness. In years when the `quality` of a female`s partners was more variable (in standard errors of a male sexual ornament), clutches showed less multiple paternity. This agrees with prior laboratory trials in which females exercised stronger cryptic female choice when male quality varied more. An increased number of sires contributing to within-clutch paternity decreased the risk of having malformed offspring. Ultimately, such variation may contribute to highly dynamic and shifting selection mosaics in the wild, with potential implications for the evolutionary ecology of mating systems and population responses to rapidly changing environmental conditions.
Olsson, M. & Wapstra, E. & Uller, T. (2005) -
In sand lizards (Lacerta agilis), males with more and brighter nuptial coloration also have more DNA fragments visualized in restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of their major histocompatibility complex class I loci (and, hence, are probably more heterozygous at these loci). Such males produce more viable offspring, with a particularly strong viability effect on daughters. This suggests that females should adjust both their reproductive investment and offspring sex ratio in relation to male coloration (i.e. differential allocation). Our results show that experimental manipulation of partner coloration in the wild results in significantly higher maternal effort and a 10% higher proportion of daughters than sons. This supports the hypothesis that females increase their maternal energetic expenditure and adjust their offspring sex ratio in response to high-quality partners. However, it also suggests that this has probably evolved through natural selection for increased offspring viability (primarily through production of daughters), rather than through increased mate attraction (e.g. sexy sons).
Olsson, M.& Wapstra, E. & Madsen, T. & Silverin, B. (2000) -
The immunocompetence-handicap hypothesis suggests that androgen-dependent male characters constitute honest signals of mate and/or rival quality because of the imposed costs through immune suppression associated with elevated testosterone levels. We demonstrate in a field experiment that male sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) exposed to elevated testosterone suffered from increased mass loss and tick load compared to control males. Although the first of these two results could be due to an elevated basal metabolic rate from increased plasma testosterone levels, the increased parasite load was statistically independent of the loss in body condition and is likely to be due to compromised immune function. Testosterone-treated males showed greater mobility than control males, and greater mobility resulted in higher mating success. Our experiment thus lends support to the immunocompetence-handicap hypothesis, suggesting that male testosterone levels have been moderated by balancing selection for reproductive success and sustained immune function.
Omelchenko, A.V. & Girnyk, A.E. & Osipov, F.A. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Vergun, A.A. & Ryskov, A.P. (2016) -
The article provides data on allelic and genotypic diversity of Ukrainian and Armenian populations of a parthenogenetic lizard of Darevskia armeniaca. The individual genotypes of studied specimens were established due to combination of alleles of three microsatellite loci. It is supposed that in the introduced Ukrainian population after the invasion two new genotypes appeared. Molecular mechanisms of the emergence of these new genotypes are suggested. Values of observed heterozygosity and genetic Fst-distances for the introduced Ukrainian population, native Armenian population and group of other Armenian populations are provided.
Омельченко, А.В. & Гирнык, А.Е. & Осипов, Ф.А. & Петросян, В.Г. & Вергун, А.А. & Рысков, А.П. (2016) -
В статье приведены данные об аллельном и генотипическом разнообразии украинских и армянских популяций партеногенетической ящерицы Darevskia armeniaca. Индивидуальные генотипы исследуемых особей были установлены по сочетанию аллельных вариантов трёх микросателлитных локусов. Предполагается, что в интродуцированной украинской популяции после переселения возникло два новых генотипа. Предложены молекулярные механизмы возникновения этих новых генотипов. Приведены значения наблюдаемой гетерозиготности и генетических расстояний Fst для интродуцированной украинской популяции, её исходной армянской популяции и группы других армянских популяций.
Omelchenko, A.V. & Girnyk, A.E. & Osipov, F.A. & Vergun, A.A. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Danielyan, F.D. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Ryskov, A.P. (2016) -
The article presents the genetic parameters of the populations of lizards of the Darevskia raddei complex (D. raddei nairensis and D. raddei raddei) and the populations of D. valentini calculated on the basis of the analysis of variability of 50 allelic variants of the three nuclear genome microsatellite_containing loci of 83 individuals. It was demonstrated that the Fst genetic distances between the populations of D. raddei nairensis and D. raddei raddei were not statistically significantly different from the Fst genetic the populations of different species, D. raddei and D. valentini. At the same time, these distances were statistically significantly higher than the Fst distances between the populations belonging to one species within the genus Darevskia. These data suggest deep divergence between the populations of D. raddei raddei and D. raddei nairensis of the D. raddei complex and there arises the question on considering them as separate species.
Омельченко А.В., Гирнык А.Е., Осипов Ф.А., Вергун А.А., Петросян В.Г., Даниелян Ф.Д., Аракелян М.С., Рысков А.П. (2016) -
В статье приводятся генетические параметры для популяций ящериц комплекса Darevskia raddei (D. raddei nairensis и D. raddei raddei) и популяций D. valentini, рассчитанные на основе анализа изменчивости 50 аллельных вариантов трех микросателлит-содержащих локусов ядерных геномов у 83 особей. Показано, что генетические расстояния Fst между популяциями D. raddei nairensis и популяциями D. raddei raddei статистически незначимо отличаются от генетических расстояний Fst между популяциями разных биологических видов D. raddei и D. valentini и статистически значимо превосходят генетические расстояния Fst между популяциями, принадлежащими к одному биологическому виду внутри рода Darevskia. Это свидетельствует о глубокой дивергенции популяций D. raddei raddei и D. raddei nairensis комплекса D. raddei и ставит вопрос о возможности отнесения их к разным биологическим видам.
Omelchenko, A.V. & Korchagin, V.I. (2009) -
Allelic polymorphism of three microsatellite loci from the genome of parthenogenetic lizard Darevskia unisexualis was characterized using analysis of free energy (Gibbs energy) of the DNA/DNA duplex formation within the stepwise mutational model. It was demonstrated that the number of microsatellite cluster monomericic units would change to decrease the mean free energy of the locus. In addition, based on the analysis of nucleotide composition, the GC content of each locus was evaluated, and belonging of the loci examined to certain isochore families was suggested.
Omelchenko, A.V. & Korchagin, V.I. & Sevast`yanova, G.A. & Ryskov, A.P. & Tokorskaya, O.N. (2009) -
In the present study, the first molecular genetic investigation of dinucleotide (GT) n microsatellite loci in parthenogenetic lizards Darevskia unisexualis was performed. New polymorphic locus, Du214, (GenBank Ac. No. EU252542) was identified and characterized in detail. It was demonstrated that allele of this locus differed in the size and structure of microsatellite locus, as well as in point mutations, the combinations of which enabled the isolation of stabile fixed double nucleotide substitutions A–A (alleles 2 and 4) and G–T (alleles 1, 3, 5, and 6). Double nucleotide substitutions described were also identified in the orthlogous loci of the parental species genomes, D. raddei (G–T) and D. valentine (A–A). Based on the analysis of allele distribution pattern at this locus in all populations of parthenospecies D. unisexualis, mathematic model was elaborated and realized. Using this model, frequencies of allelic variants for all populations of the species of interest were calculated and population genetic structure of D. unisexualis was characterized. Genetic contribution of each population to the species gene pool was determined. The data obtained demonstrated that microsatellite variation was one of the factors of clonal and genetic diversity of a parthenospecies.
Омельченко А.В., Корчагин В.И., Севастьянова Г.А., Рысков А.П., Токарская О.Н. (2009) -
В настоящей работе впервые проведено молекулярно-генетическое исследование динуклеотидных (GT)n-микросателлитных локусов у партеногенетических ящериц Darevskia unisexualis. Выявлен и детально охарактеризован полиморфный локус Du214 (GeneBank Ас. № EU252542); показано, что аллели этого локуса различаются по размеру и структуре микросателлитного кластера и точковыми мутациями, сочетания которых позволяют выделить устойчивые фиксированные двойные нуклеотидные замены AA (аллели 2 и 4) и GT (аллели 1, 3, 5 и 6). Указанные двойные нуклеотидные замены были обнаружены нами также в ортологичных локусах геномов родительских видов D. raddei (GT) и D. valentini (AA). На основе анализа закономерностей распределения аллельных вариантов данного локуса во всех популяциях партеновида D. unisexualis разработана и реализована математическая модель, с помощью которой рассчитана частота встречаемости аллельных вариантов по всем популяциям вида и генетико-популяционная структура D. unisexualis выявлен генетический вклад каждой популяции в генофонд этого вида. Полученные данные демонстрируют, что микросателлитная изменчивость является одним из факторов клонального и генетического разнообразия партеновидов.
Omelchenko, A.V. & Korchagin, V.I. & Sevast`yanova, G.A. & Tokorskaya, O.N. (2009) -
Genomic instability and variability of microsatellite loci is poorly studied in organisms with clonal inheritance. This was the first work to perform a moleculargenetic study of individual loci containing (GT) n microsatellites in clone-breeding (parthenogenetic) lizards Darevskia unisexualis. We revealed and characterized in detail the polymorphic loci and showed that alleles of this locus differ in size and structure of the microsatellite locus.
Omelkovets, Y.A. & Berezynk, M.V. (2013) -
Oosten, J. van & Siebelink, B. (1982) -
Oosthuizen, D.J. (2018) -
Oota, Y. (1971) -
Opatrný, D. (1973) -
Opatrný, E. (1992) -
Opisov, F.A. & Vergun, A.A. & Girnyk, A.E. & Kutuzova, N.M. & Ryskov, A.P. (2016) -
Assessment of genetic diversity of unisexual (parthenogenetic) species of vertebrates is among the major objectives of research in these species. Various nuclear or mitochondrial genome markers can be used for such an assessment. Microsatellite DNAs are among the most efficient genetic markers, since the mutation rate in these fragments is high. Identification and characterization of such markers are the basic stages of genetic research in parthenogenetic species. Allelic polymorphism of three microsatellite loci in populations of the parthenogenetic species Darevskia rostombekovi (n = 42) and bisexual parent species D. raddei (n = 6) and D. portschinskii (n = 6) has been assessed by locus-specific PCR for the first time. All representatives of the parthenogenetic species D. rostombekovi used in the present study turned out to be heterozygous. The number of alleles of the different loci ranged from two to five in the populations investigated. The nucleotide sequence of the allelic variants of the loci investigated has been determined. The differences between the alleles were apparently related to variation in the structure of microsatellite clusters and single-nucleotide substitutions in DNA fragments located in the vicinity of the clusters at fixed distances from the latter. Structural variants of the alleles formed allele-specific haplotype markers that were inherited from the bisexual parent species. The origin (inheritance from the maternal or paternal species) has been determined for each allele of the parthenogenetic species. The distribution, frequency of occurrence, and pattern of combination of the alleles of microsatellite loci in D. rostombekovi populations have been characterized; these features determined the identity of each population. The data obtained can be used for assessment of the clonal diversity of the parthenogenetic species D. rostombekovi and the identification of a possible scenario of the emergence of the diversity in the populations.
Осипов Ф.А., Вергун А.А., Гирнык А.Е., Кутузова Н.М., Рысков А.П. (2016) -
Одним из главных вопросов в исследовании однополых (партеногенетических) видов позвоночных является определение их генетического разнообразия. Для этого могут быть использованы различные маркеры ядерного и митохондриального генома. К наиболее эффективным генетическим маркерам относятся микросателлитные ДНК, обладающие высокой скоростью изменчивости. Разработка и характеристика таких маркеров являются необходимым этапом в генетических исследованиях партеновидов. В настоящей работе с помощью локусспецифической ПЦР впервые проведен анализ аллельного полиморфизма трех микросателлитных локусов в популяциях партеновида Darevskia rostombekovi (n = 42) и двуполых родительских видов D. raddei (n = 6) и D. portschinskii (n = 6). Все исследованные особи партеновида D. rostombekovi оказались гетерозиготами. В изученных популяциях обнаружено от 2 до 5 аллелей в зависимости от локуса. Определена нуклеотидная последовательность выявленных аллельных вариантов этих локусов. Показано, что отличия аллелей связаны с вариациями в структуре микросателлитных кластеров и с однонуклеотидными заменами на фиксированных расстояниях в прилежащих к кластеру участках ДНК. Структурные вариации аллелей формируют гаплотипические маркеры, специфические для каждого аллеля и наследуемые ими от родительских двуполых видов. Установлено, какие аллели партеновида наследуются от материнского, а какие - от отцовского вида. Получены характеристики по распределению, частоте встречаемости и сочетанию аллелей микросателлитных локусов в популяциях D. rostombekovi, определяющие отличительные особенности каждой популяции. Данные могут быть использованы в дальнейшем для определения клонального разнообразия и возможного сценария его формирования в популяциях партеновида D. rostombekovi.
Oppliger, A. & Célérier, M.L. & Clobert, J. (1996) -
The effect of haemoparasites on the physiology and behaviour traits of their hosts was examined using Haemogregarina sp., a parasite of the common lizard, Lacerta vivipara, from the south of France. Infection with haemogregarines was associated with a reduced haemoglobin concentration and an increased number of immature red blood cells. Parasitized individuals also showed a reduced oxygen consumption at rest and a lower locomotor speed. We also found that the multiplication rate of the parasite depended on the temperature at which the lizard was maintained. Between 21 and 28 °C the multiplication rate of the parasite was significantly lower than between 29 and 35 °C. This suggests that the parasites may suffer reproductive costs when hosts reduce their body temperature.
Oppliger, A. & Clobert, J. (1997) -
1. Many lizards will lose their tail through autotomy as an antipredator device even though there must be significant costs during tail regeneration. 2. Parasites are energetically costly to the host, and may reduce the rate of cell regeneration. The relation between the presence of haemogregarines (phylum Sporozoa) and the rate of tail regeneration in the Common Lizard Lacerta vivipara (Jacquin) was examined. 3. Experimentally induced autotomy in parasitized lizards resulted in a significantly reduced rate of tail regeneration compared with non-parasitized lizards. On the other hand, tail loss was not associated with an abnormal increase of parasite load, suggesting that the physiological stress (induced by tail loss) did not cause a decrease in parasite defence.
Oppliger, A. & Clobert, J. & Lecomte, J. & Lorenzon, P. & Boudjemadi, K. & John-Alder, H. (1998) -
Parasites affect the life-histories and fitness of their hosts. It has been demonstrated that the ability of the immune system to cope with parasites partly depends on environmental conditions. In particular, stressful conditions have an immunosuppressive effect and may affect disease resistance. The relationship between environmental stress and parasitism was investigated using a blood parasite of the common lizard Lacerta vivipara. In laboratory cages, density and additional stressors had a significant effect on the intensity of both natural parasitaemia and parasitaemia induced by experimental infection. Four weeks after infection, crowded lizards had three times more parasites than noncrowded lizards. After 1 month of stress treatment, naturally infected lizards had a significantly higher level of plasma corticosterone and a higher parasite load than nonstressed individuals. In seminatural enclosures, stress induced by the habitat quality affected both the natural blood parasite prevalence and the intensity of parasitaemia of the host.
Oppliger, A. & Degen, L. & Bouteiller-Reuter,C.& John-Alder, H. (2007) -
Little is known about the mating system of the common wall lizard Podarcis muralis. Behavioural and observational data have demonstrated that females frequently mate with multiple males. However, the possible occurrence of multiple paternity has never been investigated. By using microsatellite paternity analysis in a wild population, we document this species indeed mate promiscuously and these matings resulted in multiple paternity in at least 87% of the clutches examined.
Oppliger, A. & Giorgi, M.S. & Conelli, A. & Nembrini, M. & John-Alder, H.-B. (2004) -
Testosterone can benefit individual fitness by increasing ornament colour, aggressiveness, and sperm quality, but it can also impose both metabolic and immunological costs. However, evidence that testosterone causes immuno suppression in freely living populations is scant. We studied the effects of testosterone on one component of the immune system (i.e., the cell-mediated response to phytohaemagglutinin), parasite load, and metabolic rate in the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768). For analyses of immunocompetence and parasitism, male lizards were implanted at the end of the breeding season with either empty or testosterone implants and were returned to their site of capture for 5–6 weeks before recapture. For analyses of the effects of testosterone on metabolic rate, male lizards were captured and implanted before hibernation and were held in the laboratory for 1 week prior to calorimetry. Experimental treatment with testosterone decreased the cell-mediated response to the T-cell mitogen phytohemagglutinin and increased mean metabolic rate. No effects of testosterone on the number of ectoparasites, hemoparasites, and resting metabolic rate could be detected. These results are discussed in the framework of the immunocompetence handicap hypothesis and the immuno-redistribution process hypothesis.
Oppliger, A. & Vernet, R. & Baez, M. (1999) -
Biologists commonly assume that parasites are locally adapted since they have shorter generation times and higher fecundity than their hosts, and therefore evolve faster in the arms race against the host`s defences. As a result, parasites should be better able to infect hosts within their local population than hosts from other allopatric populations. However, recent mathematical modelling has demonstrated that when hosts have higher migration rates than parasites, hosts may diversify their genes faster than parasites and thus parasites may become locally maladapted. This new model was tested on the Canarian endemic lizard and its blood parasite (haemogregarine genus). In this host–parasite system, hosts migrate more than parasites since lizard offspring typically disperse from their natal site soon after hatching and without any contact with their parents who are potential carriers of the intermediate vector of the blood parasite (a mite). Results of cross-infection among three lizard populations showed that parasites were better at infecting individuals from allopatric populations than individuals from their sympatric population. This suggests that, in this host–parasite system, the parasites are locally maladapted to their host.
Oraei, H. & Khosravani, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Ghoreishi, K. (2011) -
Mesalina watsonana is one of the most widely distributed lacertid lizards of Iran. To investigate patterns of sexual dimorphism in this taxon, 206 (99 female, 107 male) adult specimens collected either from various regions of the Iranian Plateau during 2005-2008 or examined from museum collections were studied based suggest that in Mesalina watsonana, body size could be the product of sexual and natural selection modified by ecological factors. Further, in all the studied populations, head size parameter has a more pronounced effect on the degree of sexual dimorphism than the length factors.
Oraie, H. & Khosravani, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Ghoreishi, S.K. (2011) -
Mesalina watsonana is one of the most widely distributed lacertid lizards of Iran. To in- vestigate patterns of sexual dimorphism in this taxon, 206 (99 female, 107 male) adult specimens collected either from various regions of the Iranian Plateau during 2005-2008 or examined from mu- seum collections were studied based on 19 morphometric and nine meristic characters. The results suggest that in Mesalina watsonana, body size could be the product of sexual and natural selection modified by ecological factors. Further, in all the studied populations, head size parameter has a more pronounced effect on the degree of sexual dimorphism than the length factors.
Oraie, H. & Rahimian, H. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Khosravani, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2013) -
Twenty-three morphological features of 140 specimens of Ophisops elegans were analysed in order to identify sexual dimorphism in west and northwestern populations of Iran. Sexual dimorphism is significant (P<0.05) in nearly all metric features except for trunk length (TL) and length of widest part of belly (LWB), and in only two meristic characters, the number of dorsal scales around mid-body (DSN) and the number of femoral pores (FPN). Males have a relatively longer snout-vent length (SVL) than females and males have generally relatively larger heads compared to females.
Oraie, H. & Rahimian, H. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Ficetola, G.F. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Khosravani, A. (2014) -
Ophisops elegans, a common lizard with a wide distribution range in Iran, was selected to investigate the influence of environmental factors on its distribution pattern. Based on a distribution model developed with the software Maxent for O. elegans, the most important factors influencing the distribution pattern were found to be high winter precipitation, intermediate levels of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and intermediate levels of sunshine. It seems that overall plant cover and competition with Mesalina watsonana are the main factors which influence the distribution pattern of O. elegans in the central Iranian Plateau.
Oraie, H. & Rahimian, H. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Khosravani, A (2012) -
Origia, K. & Novarino, W. & Tjong, D.H. (2012) -
Research of lizards (Sauria) in the Harapan Rainforest, Jambi was conducted from February to April 2012. The research was conducted using the direct capture and survey method. The result found of 14 species of lizards belongs to five families, which are Draco sumatrana, Aphaniotis fusca, and Bronchocela cristatella (Agamidae), Varanus salvator and Varanus sp. (Varanidae), Eutropis multifasciata and Eutropis macularia (Scincidae), Takydromus sexlineatus (Lacertidae), Cyrtodactylus sp., Hemidactylus platyurus, Hemidactylus frenatus, Hemidactylus sp., Gekko smithii and Gekko monarchus (Gekkonidae).
Orlandella, V. (1967) -
Orlov, V.F. (2008) -
Orlova, M.V. & Doronin, I.V. & Doronina, M.A. & Anisimov, N.V. & Dolgova, I.G. (2023) -
Trombiculid mites are known as vectors of larvae of Ericotrombidium caucasicum Schluger, 1967, Lacertacarus latus Schluger et Vasilieva, 1977, and Schoengastia sp. chigger mites (Acariformes: Trombiculidae) were col- lected from lizards Lacerta strigata and L. agilis (Reptilia: Lacertidae) in the Caucasus and adjacent territory (Iran). Our record of Ericotrombidium caucasicum in Azerbaijan is the first finding of the species in this country. Also, results of E. caucasicum on L. strigata and Lacertacarus latus on L. agilis are new host-parasite associa- tions. Schoengastia sp. has been reported from L. strigata for the first time.
Orlova, M.V. & Doronin, I.V. & Klimov, P.B. & Anisimo, N.V. (2022) -
Rock lizards of the genus Darevskia are interesting research models due to their asexual reproduction. Ectoparasitic mites and ticks of these lizards are poorly known, despite some of these chelicerates being vector pathogens of humans and wildlife. Here we document and curate previously known data on ectoparasitic Acari of rock lizards and, based on our extensive survey, provide an annotated list of these ectoparasitic arthropods (six tick species, one macronyssid species, and seven chigger species). We also provide new host records (Ixodes ricinus on Darevskia caucasica, D. dryada, D. mixta, and D. szczerbaki; Haemaphysalis sulcata on D. rudis; Odontacarus saxicolis on D. brauneri); and new geographical records (O. saxicolis in Russia and Georgia).
Orlova, M.V. & Doronin, I.V. & Klimov, P.B. & Anisimov, N.V. (2022) -
Orlova, M.V. & Halliday, B. & Reeves, W.K. & Doronin, I.V. & Mishchenko, V.A. & Vyalykh, I.V. & Kidov, A.A. (2024) -
The mite Ophionyssus natricis (Gervais, 1844) (Macronyssidae) is a widespread ectopara- site of reptiles and a vector of some important veterinary diseases. This paper reviews the geographic distribution and host range of O. natricis and the available information about its clinical significance. Some incorrect identifications and host records are also identified. The snake mite has been collected from 144 species of reptiles, mostly snakes, as well as one amphibian and three species of mammals. It has been recorded in 36 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America, and Australia. Its geographic range has undoubtedly been extended by human activities. Our records of O. natricis on the lizards Darevskia brauneri (Méhely, 1909) and Ophisops elegans Ménétries 1832, and on the snake Telescopus fallax Fleischmann, 1831, are new host records.
Orlova, M.V. & Mischenko, V.A. & Doronin, I.V. & Zabashta, M.V. & Anisimov, N.V. & Vyalykh, I.V. (2023) -
The tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) virus has been confirmed by molecular analysis in the Caucasus region for the first time. The virus obtained from a tick Ixodes ricinus ex Caspian green lizard belongs to the Zausaev strain of the Siberian subtype (not to a strain of the European subtype highly distributed in the territories adjacent to the Caucasus). This unusual record indicates the need to study the role of lizards in the circulation of natural focal infections.
Orlova, M.V.; Doronin, I.V.; Doronina, M.A.; Anisimov, N.V. (2023) -
Based on a literature review, as well as on our own data, 14 ixodid tick species belonging to 5 genera were registered for the lizard hosts of the genus Lacerta (L. agilis, L. media, and L. strigata) in the Caucasus and the adjacent territories: Haemaphysalis sulcata, Haem. punctata, Haem. parva, Haem. caucasica, Haem. concinna, Haem. inermis, Ixodes ricinus, I. redikorzevi, Dermacentor marginatus, D. reticulatus, Hyalomma marginatum, Rhipicephalus bursa, Rh. rossicum, and Rh. turanicum. Tick species Haem. caucasica were recorded from Armenia for the first time. Our findings of Haem. punctata represent the first record of this species for Chechnya, Ingushetia (Russia), Armenia, and Azerbaijan. Most of the parasite species are associated with L. agilis (13) and L. strigata (12); L. media is a host of 6 tick species. Data on the infestation of Lacerta spp. by four tick species from our material (I. ricinus, Haem. punctata, Haem. caucasica, and Hyal. marginatum) are presented in the article. In addition, our article contains information on the range of infections associated with the above tick species. Castor bean tick I. ricinus (236 specimens), the most represented species in our collection, parasitizes all available terrestrial vertebrates including humans and can be vector of many various pathogens, so our study provides significant epidemiological information.
Orlova, V. & Nazarov, R. & Chirikova, M. (2017) -
Orlova, V.F. (1969) -
Orlova, V.F. (1971) -
Orlova, V.F. (1975) -
Orlova, V.F. (1978) -
Orlova, V.F. (1986) -
Orlova, V.F. (1989) -
Orlova, V.F. (1991) -
Orlova, V.F. (1992) -
Orlova, V.F. (1993) -
Orlova, V.F. (1995) -
Orlova, V.F. (2008) -
Orlova, V.F. & Chirikova, M.A. & Nazarov, R.A. & Poyarkov, N.A. (2016) -
Four species from the E. multiocellata-complex occur in Kyrgyzstan and southeastern Kazakhstan. e taxonomic state of the populations from Kazakhstan is ambiguous. e results of comparative morpho- logical analysis (habitus, color pattern on the dorsal side of the body, metric and meristic characters) in the E.stummeri from two localities in Kyrgyzstan (including type locality) and south-eastern Kazakh- stan are presented. Signi cant di erences were revealed in Sq., G. and L. /L. cd features. As a result, the racerunners from the southeastern Kazakhstan are morphologically identi ed as E. stummeri. Our ob- servations and the analysis of the museum collections con rm independent speci c states of three allo- patric species of E. multiocellata-complex in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakh Tien Shan.
Orlova, V.F. & Chirikova, M.A. & Pavlinov, I.Y. (2012) -
Steppe-runner Eremias arguta (Pallas 1773) is one of the most widespread species of the Asian racerunners (genus Eremias) inhabiting steppes, semi-deserts and deserts of Eastern Europe, Middle and Central Asia. Several subspecies were traditionally recognized, however, their morphological variability is so high that the delimitation and establishing of formal taxonomical status of some populations was always problematic. The metric and meristic morphological characters of E. arguta from 12 populations of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, northwestern China and southwestern Mongolia were analyzed using different multivariate statistic methods and preliminary results of molecular analysis of mtDNA cytochrome b gene. The studied populations are clustered in five groups. Based on both morphological and molecular characters, the southernmost populations from Uzbekistan and Chimkent region (Kazakhstan) form a clearly separated group E. a. uzbekistanica, quite different from all other subspecies. The populations from the Ili River valley (southeastern Kazakhstan and northwestern China) were formerly considered as transitional ones between E. a. arguta — E. a. uzbekistanica or E. a. potarcini, but in fact they represent a separate form. The easternmost samples assigned as `E. a. potanini` are deeply nested within E. a. arguta cluster and seem to be a local form with clinal variation of morphological characters.
Орлова В.Ф. & Чирикова М.А. & Павлинов И.Я. (2012) -
Разноцветная ящурка один из наиболее широко распространенных видов азиатских ящурок, населяющий степи, полупустыни и пустыни Восточной Европы, Средней и Центральной Азии. Традиционно внутри вида распознавали несколько подвидов, однако изменчивость признаков внешней морфологии так высока, что определение подвидов и придание таксономического статуса некоторым популяциям, особенно в восточной части ареала, всегда было проблематичным.
Orlova, V.F. & Dunaev, E.A. (1992) -
Orlova, V.F. & Dunayev, E.A. & Nazarov, R.A. & Terbish, K. & Erdentushig, P. (2014) -
Here we present the main results of our 2008 field research held in the south-western Mongolia by a herpetological team of the Russian – Mongolian biological expedition. 13 reptile species belonging to five families and eight genera have been recorded. Phrynocephalus versicolor was the most widespread and abundant lizard species. Eremias przewalskii and E. multiocellata were also common in semi-fixed sands subjected to considerable over-grazing (Dundgov’, Umnegov’). Several new localities for Ph.versicolor hispida and E. m. multiocellata and E. m. reticulata are reported. Cyrtopodion elongatum was found in the Nogondov (=Nogon-Dovon) valley located in 300 km northwards from the previously known occurrence of this species. This valley inhabited by Teratoscincus przewalskii, Eremias vermiculata, and Eryx tataricus can be considered as the most western part of the Trans-Altai Gobi Desert adjacent to the Mongolian Dzungaria. The actual status of the C. elongatum populations seems to be out of concern because, according to our night observations, the population density exceeds 20 ind per 500 m². The taxonomical status of Ph. v. hispida and E. m. reticulata is discussed, and the specific status of racerunners collected in the area of their sympatry in the Hovd aimag was confirmed. Some coloration features of living adults and juveniles individuals of the lizards (especially, Eremias and Phrynocephalus species) are reported.
Орлова В. Ф., Дунаев Е. А., Назаров Р. А., Тэрбиш Х., Эрдэнтушиг П. (2014) -
работе представлены основные результаты полевых исследований герпетологического отряда Российско- Монгольской биологической экспедиции в 2008 г. в юго-западной Монголии. В ходе экспедиции зарегистри- ровано 13 видов пресмыкающихся, принадлежащих 5 семействам и 8 родам. Phrynocephalus versicolor – са- мый распространенный и массовый вид ящериц. E. przewalskii и E. multiocellata также многочисленны в по- лузакрепленных песках, подверженных значительному перевыпасу скота (Дундговь, Умнеговь). Приводятся новые точки находок Ph. v. hispida, E. m. multiocellata и E. m. reticulata. Cyrtopodion elongatum найден в уро- чище Ногондов (= Ногон-Довон), в 300 км севернее известного местонахождения вида. Это ущелье, где оби- тают Teratoscincus przewalskii, Eremias vermiculata и Eryx tataricus, можно считать самым западным участком Заалтайской Гоби, граничащим с монгольской Джунгарией. Состояние популяций C. elongatum, по нашим данным, не вызывает опасений, так как плотность населения по результатам ночных учетов составляет более 20 особей на 500 м2. Уточнен таксономический статус Ph. v. hispida и E. m. reticulata, подтверждена видовая самостоятельность глазчатых ящурок из зоны симпатрии в Кобдоском аймаке. Описаны особенности при- жизненной окраски ювенильных и взрослых особей ящериц.
Orlova, V.F. & Dunayev, E.A. & Nazarov, R.A. & Terbish, Kh. & Erdentushig, P. (2014) -
Here we present the main results of our 2008 field research held in the south-western Mongolia by a herpetological team of the Russian – Mongolian biological expedition. 13 reptile species belonging to five families and eight genera have been recorded. Phrynocephalus versicolor was the most widespread and abundant lizard species. Eremias przewalskii and E. multiocellata were also common in semi-fixed sands subjected to considerable over-grazing (Dundgov’, Umnegov’). Several new localities for Ph.versicolor hispida and E. m. multiocellata and E. m. reticulata are reported. Cyrtopodion elongatum was found in the Nogondov (=Nogon-Dovon) valley located in 300 km northwards from the previously known occurrence of this species. This valley inhabited by Teratoscincus przewalskii, Eremias vermiculata, and Eryx tataricus can be considered as the most western part of the Trans-Altai Gobi Desert adjacent to the Mongolian Dzungaria. The actual status of the C. elongatum populations seems to be out of concern because, according to our night observations, the population density exceeds 20 ind per 500 m². The taxonomical status of Ph. v. hispida and E. m. reticulata is discussed, and the specific status of racerunners collected in the area of their sympatry in the Hovd aimag was confirmed. Some coloration features of living adults and juveniles individuals of the lizards (especially, Eremias and Phrynocephalus species) are reported. Key words: herpetofauna, geographic distribution, population density, habitats, body coloration, southwestern Mongolia.
Орлова В.Ф., Дунаев Е.А., Назаров Р.А., Тэрбиш Х., Эрдэнтушиг П. (2014) -
Приведены фаунистические результаты пяти экспедиций (1995, 1996, 2007, 2011 и 2012 гг.) в восточную и северо-восточную Турцию. Материал собран на хребтах Понтийском (Лазистанском), Арсиянском, Шавшетском, Чимен, Гюмушхане, в бассейне р. Чорох, бассейнах верхнего течения рек Аракс, Кура, Евфрат, Тигр, Харшит (Доганкент) и в бассейне озера Ван. В общей сложности было найдено 2 вида хвостатых амфибий, 6 видов бесхвостых амфибий, 2 вида (3 подвида) черепах, 25 видов (30 подвидов) ящериц и 21 вид змей.
Orlova, V.F. & Kozlovskii, A.I. (1996) -
Karyotypes of the common lizard, Lacerta vivipara (2n = 36 in males; 2n = 35 in females) from Moscow, Tver` and Ivanovo regions were studied using standard and differentiated staining. For the first time sex chromosomes of females were reliably identified with the help of G-staining: subtelocentric W and acrocentric Z1, Z2. Successive staining (G-NOR) demonstrated localization of the ribosomal gene clusters in the telomer zones of the 15th autosome pair. Analysis of the metaphase plates series stained by silver allowed the determination of the frequency of NOR activity in one or both homologues as well as the frequency of associations between them.
Orlova, V.F. & Kuranova, V.N. (2006) -
Orlova, V.F. & Kuranova, V.N. & Bulakhova, N.A. (2005) -
Orlova, V.F. & Poyarkov, N.A. & Chirikova, M.A. & Nazarov, R.A. & Munkhbataar, M. & Munkhbayar, K. & Terbish, K. (2017) -
We provide an integrative analysis of the diversity of the E. multiocellata—E. przewalskii species complex in Central and Middle Asia using morphological and molecular (COI DNA-barcoding) data. We report preliminary data on mtDNA variation within this group and clarify the taxonomic status and distribution of the members of the species complex. We also provide a description of a new Eremias species from Eastern Kazakhstan and western Mongolia, where it occurs in sympatry with E. multiocellata sensu stricto, from which it can be clearly differentiated using both morphological and molecular characters. The new species, described as Eremias dzungarica sp. nov., is assigned to the subgenus Pareremias on the basis of the following features: subocular not reaching mouth edge; one frontonasal; two supraoculars; the row of small granular scales between supraoculars and frontal with frontoparietals absent; distance between the femoral pore rows being wide; femoral pore rows not reaching knee-joint; coloration pattern with light colored ocelli with black edging. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners on the basis of the following morphological attributes: a mediumsized lacertid lizard, maximum snout-vent length (SVL) = 64.5 mm, tail being ca. 1.5 times longer than body length (SVL), hindlimbs relatively long (hindlimb length to SVL ratio 0.46); subocular scale not reaching mouth edge, in touch with 6–8 supralabials; males with bright coloration consisting of 2–3 dorsolateral rows of light-colored ocelli with thick black edging; the ventral row of ocelli in life is greenish to bluish; dorsal pattern consisting of black irregular blotches along the middorsal line. We also report on the high genetic and morphological diversity of E. multiocellata in Mongolia and China, synonymize E. m. bannikowi with the nominative form E. m. multiocellata, discuss variation within E. przewalskii, synonymize E. p. tuvensis with the nominative form E. przewalskii, provide new data on E. cf. reticulata and E. m. tsaganbogdensis, confirm validity and clarify distribution ranges of E. stummeri, E. szczerbaki and E. yarkandensis and discuss further progress on taxonomic studies of the E. multiocellata—E. przewalskii species complex.
Orlova, V.F. & Poyarkov, N.A. & Chirikova, M.A. & Dolotovskaya, S.I. (2007) -
Orlova, V.F. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Rajabizadeh, K. & Nabizadeh, H. & Poyarkov, N.A. & Melnikov, D.A. & Nazarov R.A. (2023) -
We provide a diversity assessment of Iranian species of the genus Eremias based on the cytochrome oxidase I mtDNA gene fragment. We analyzed 93 genetic samples from the entire distribution of the Eremias fasciata species complex in Iran and surrounding regions, along with morphological data to support the description of two new species from Central Iran. We hypothesize that the diversification of the Eremias fasciata species complex was largely influenced by the fragmentation of sand massifs in the region. This same hypothesis has been used to explain the high level of endemism among the sand-dwelling species of reptiles along the Iranian Plateau in the same area. The two new species described herein can be distinguished from other congeneric species by their phylogenetic position and a combination of morphological characters. We use these data to discuss the taxonomy of Eremias based on morphology, habitat choice, and genetic data.
Orlova, V.F. & Solovyva, E.N. & Dunayev, E.A. & Ananjeva, N.B. (2022) -
The Kokshaal racerunner, Eremias kokshaaliensis Eremchenko et Panfilov, 1999, together with other central Asian racerunner species, is included in the Eremias multiocellata complex. In the present work, for the first time, the results of the analysis of historical mitochondrial DNA (barcode) are presented and the taxonomic status and preliminary phylogenetic relationships within the complex are specified. We present, for the first time, the results of the molecular analysis using historical DNA recovered from specimens of several species of this complex (paratypes of the Kokshaal racerunner and historical collections of the Kashgar racerunner E. buechneri from Kashgaria) using DNA barcoding.
Orlova, V.F. & Terbish, Kh. (1986) -
Orlova, V.F. & Terbish, Kh. (1997) -
Orlova, V.F. & Tertyshnikov, M.F. (1979) -
Orlowa, W.F. (1975) -
Orlowa, W.F. & Bischoff, W. (1984) -
Orlowa, W.F. & Orlow, W.N. (1969) -
Orlowa, W.F. & Smirina, E.M. (1981) -
Orlowa, W.F. & Smirina, E.M. (1983) -
Orós, J. & Andrada, M. & Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Cruz, G. & Mateo, J. (2007) -
The La Gomera Giant Lizard (Gallotia bravoana) is listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List. The rediscovery of this species, presumably extinct, in the Risco de La Mérica (Valle Gran Rey, La Gomera) in 1999 drove to establish a specific recovery plan and a captive breeding programme in order to increase the number of individuals. Since then captive lizards have been monitored closely and several anatomopathological studies have been carried out in order to determine the causes of mortality and main diseases affecting this species. The most important lesions observed in the lizards necropsied during the period 2000/2005 included: multifocal granulomatous hepatitis, multifocal granulomatous poliserositis, fibrinopurulent poliserositis and fibrinopurulent pleuritis. Lesions caused by Salmonella arizonae in an outbreak during the summer of 2005 are also described and briefly discussed.
Orós, J. & Hernández, J.D. & Gallardo, J. & Lupiola, P. & Jensen, H.E. (2013) -
Reports of dermatophytosis in reptiles are rare. This report describes the microscopical and immunohistochemical findings in a case of dermatophytosis caused by Trichophyton spp. in a 2-year-old Tenerife lizard (Gallotia galloti) with ulcerative and pustular skin lesions. Microscopically, the lesions were characterized by superficial epidermal pustules containing heterophils with numerous fungal hyphae that stained by periodic acid–Schiff and Grocott`s stain. Fungal culture was not performed, but a panel of polyclonal antibodies specific for different fungal genera was applied to tissue sections. These immunohistochemical studies demonstrated reactivity of the hyphae only with antiserum specific for Trichophyton spp.
Orrit, N. & Llorente, G.A. & López-Jurado, L.F. (1999) -
In the frame of the project “Recovery of the El Hierro Giant Lizard” (Life Program B4-3200/94/743) the possibility of expanding the present range of distribution has been foreseen. One of the places chosen (La Dehesa) is situated in the west of el Hierro island. The vegetation is composed of Juniperus forest not much affected by human influence. The area was selected because of several reasons: the finding of fossil remains of giant lizards, its remote situation far from human influence, the good plant coverage and the present of potential shelters. Monitoring was carried out in order to evaluate in a reliable way the suitability of the area as a possible place for releasing lizards. The evolution of trophic resources (vegetation) was analyzed by means of monthly transects. The results allow to value this area positively as a zone for expanding the range of the lizard, since it resenz the necessary condition for supporting a lizard population. The lack of water during the dry seasons is minimized by the water contained in the vegetation. The carrying capacity of La Dehesa expressed in minimum lizard density and calculated from the plant biomass available would vary between 67.64 and 101.46 adult individuals by hectare.
Endangered and close to resenzia , the giant lizard of El Hierro (Gallotia simonyi) is the subject of a recovery plan based on captive breeding and eventual reintroduction into native habitats. This endemic species is largely herbivorous and in captivity bred resenzia o on a diet that was nutritious but not based on native foods. One goal was to change the dietary habits of a group of G. simonyi maintained in the Centro de Recuperación del Lagarto Gigante de El Hierro, so that hey could safely be reintroduced into natural habitats. Thus, a controlled period of adaptation to the natural vegetation of the reintroduction area was established. In captivity they had received water ad libitum, but in the dry natural area water is only occasionally available as condensation or rain. Our results indicate that the animals can consume and do well on the native resources available in the reintroduction area, particularly fruits of Juniperus resenzia, which are produced throughout the year. Lastly, we include dietary recommendations for lizards born in captivity which will ultimately be reintroduced into native habitats.
Orrit, N. & López Jurado, L.F. (1997) -
Orsini, J.P. (1984) -
Ortega Diago, Z. (2016) -
All aspects of the biology of ectotherms are influenced by their body temperatures, which, in turn, depend heavily on the temperature of the habitat in which they live. High mountain habitats impose severe constrains, being the short length of the daily and the annual activity periods, together with the low ambient temperatures, the most relevant to the thermal biology of animals. In this thesis, we address the thermal biology of five species of the high mountain lizard genus Iberolacerta: I. cyreni, I. galani, I. aurelioi, I. bonnali, and I. monticola. We have studied the thermal sensitivity of all of them, and the degree to which they are able to regulate their body temperatures behaviorally, assessing accuracy of thermoregulation, thermal quality of the habitat, and effectiveness of thermoregulation. To do this, we have measured body temperatures of activity, operative temperatures as null hypothesis of thermoregulation, and temperatures selected in laboratory thermal gradient. Additionally, in particular cases of study, we have evaluated: (1) the role of behavioral thermoregulation to buffer the impact of climate change in body temperatures, (2) the role of the seasonal shift of the preferred temperatures range in the effectiveness of thermoregulation, (3) the partition of thermal resources of two syntopic species, and (4) the impact of wind speed in the effectiveness of thermoregulation. General results show that Iberolacerta species are cold-specialists, as well as excellent thermoregulators. In the case of I. cyreni, we have shown that lizards are buffering the impact of climate change by means of behavioral thermoregulation. With regard to I. galani, we have found that the shift of its preferred temperatures range between spring and summer entails a more effective thermoregulation for each season. In addition, we have studied the partition of the thermal niche between I. galani and Podarcis bocagei in sympatry. Finally, we have shown that an increase in wind speed significantly affects the effectiveness in thermoregulation I. aurelioi. All results of the thesis have an added importance due to the current climate change scenario, which is particularly threatening these species of lacertids of the Iberian mountains. Therefore, we have discussed all results in the light of this unfortunate phenomenon, with the hope that contributions to the knowledge of the thermal biology of ectotherms will be useful to prevent their extinction in the medium term.
Ortega Giménez, J. (2015) -
The study of natural variation has long fascinated evolutionary biologists and attempts to account for it were major contributors to the formulations of Darwin´s idea of evolution. The main goal of this thesis is to study the factors that shape phenotypic variation in the Iberian wall lizard species complex (P. hispanicus). We specifically focused on two recently described species within this species complex, P. guadarramae and P. liolepis. We first performed a common garden experiment (Chapter I) to examine differences in reproductive investment and the underlying basis of the altitudinally divergent phenotypes of two P. guadarramae populations located along an altitudinal gradient with contrasted climatic conditions. We also performed a reciprocal transplant experiment (Chapter II) aiming to determine the influence of proximate effects of local environmental conditions on hatchling growth in lizards from the two populations commented above. We also measured food availability in both sites to determine the relationship between ecosystem productivity and growth. In Chapter III, our main goal was to disentangle the factors that shape variation in conspicuous colourful tails and dorsal pattern morphs and its relationship with escape behaviour in P. guadarramae juvenile lizards. In Chapter IV, we tested the hypothesis that selection acts differentially among P. hispanicus female morphs (reticulated-blotched vs. striped) to create alternative morph-specific phenotypic optima at different levels, by testing whether morphs differ in several fitness proxies. For this, we measured morphology, dorsal coloration, reproductive investment and immune response of adult female morphs, and morphology, growth, and dorsal coloration of their offspring. In Chapter V we examined altitudinal variation in morphology, and ventral and dorsal coloration populations in adult P. liolepis. In Chapter VI, we examined the efficacy (i.e., persistence and detectability) of sexual chemical signals of males (i.e. femoral gland secretions) at different temperatures and humidity levels to test the hypothesis that chemical signals of male lizards have evolved to maximize efficacy of chemical signals in different environmental conditions (highland vs lowland). The common garden experiment (Chapter I) shows that altitudinally divergent adult body sizes of P. hispanicus lizards are not driven by size at hatching, which is not contributed to by egg size, nor intrinsic post-hatching growth rates associated with the environmental conditions experienced in the experiment. Thus, adult phenotypic differences are the result of a plastic response which was latter confirmed by a reciprocal transplant experiment (Chapter II) where the growing environment determines growth rates, independently of population of origin. The drivers of growth rate differences are likely between-sites differences in food availability and quality. We also provide evidence for the existence of sexual and intermorph dimorphism in tail ultraviolet colour reflectance of hatchling P. hispanicus lizards (Chapter III). Hatchling reticulated-blotched females have more UV reflectance in their tails than striped females and reticulated-blotched males, while striped females have intermediate UV reflectance and males the lowest UV reflectance. In addition, we identify sex/dorsal morph, body size and brightness as predictors of different aspects of escape behaviour, and two alternative escape strategies between striped and reticulated-blotched hatchlings that are probably dependent on dorsal morph differences, independently of sex. Reticulated-blotched individuals run faster and spend less time paused than striped females, which might reflect an escape behaviour strategy based on endurance in striped females. Larger hatchlings run longer distances and tail wave less than smaller hatchlings. In addition, lowland males display tail waving as a ‘last resort’ antipredator strategy that may be related to fatigue. Moreover, hatchlings with brighter tails take fewer pauses between sprint bursts than those with duller tails, adopting a shier behaviour that may minimize predation risk during flight episodes. Hence, hatchling antipredatory behaviour is influenced by the interactions between dorsal patterns, size and tail conspicuousness. The two melanin-based dorsal morphs of female P. hispanicus have contrasted reproductive strategies (Chapter IV). Hatchlings born from reticulated-blotched females are larger and heavier than those born from striped ones, which suggest the role of maternal effects mediating offspring phenotype differences between the two morphs. Female dorsal morphs and age classes differ in terms of melanin based, and brownish dorsal coloration. Adult striped and hatchling females are darker than reticulated-blotched adult females and hatchlings, respectively. Moreover, adult female morphs have different morphology as reticulated-blotched females have deeper heads and longer femora than striped ones. Our results also suggest that this female-limited polymorphism is not maintained by selective pressures related to immune response. We also neglect the existence of a relationship between melanin-based coloration and hatchling growth and adult immune response. Finally, immune response do not differ between adult female dorsal morphs. Highland P. liolepis lizards are larger, stockier and have more femoral pores and a darker dorsal coloration than lowland ones (Chapter V). Thus, highland and lowland P. liolepis follow the same pattern of variation observed in other species within the P. hispanicus species complex. Dorsal and ventral coloration fluctuate seasonally and between populations. Brightness of ventral and dorsal coloration are higher in lowland than in highland lizards in spring whereas the reversed trend is found in summer. In addition, lizards in summer had more throat bluish reflectance than in spring and is also males had more bluish reflectance for all body regions except for the throat. We determine the existence of an anterior-posterior gradient of red ventral coloration, with the highest values in the throat. In addition, summer lizards had more brownish coloration than spring ones whereas spring lizards had more greenish coloration than summer ones. Finally, the chemical secretions of male P. hispanicus lizards differ between two populations (Chapter VI). Lower elevation males have higher proportions of cholesterol and fatty acids, but lower proportions of alcohols than higher elevation males. Moreover, chemosensory tests with female lizards show that chemical signals of males have a lower efficacy when time since deposition, temperature and dryness increase. These effects are more detrimental in the higher elevation population that occupies naturally colder and more humid environments. Therefore, interpopulational differences in chemical profiles of femoral secretions of male P. hispanicus lizards might reflect adaptation to maximize the efficacy of the chemical signal in different climates
Ortega-Rubio, A. (1989) -
During the summer of 1984, the spatial structure of a mountain lizard assemblage, located at la Sierra de La Guadarrama in Spain, was studied. The assemblage is composed of six abundant species. The habitst partitioning and microhabitat specialization of these species show that the differential use of spatial resources establishes a clear separation among most of the species. Regarding the habitat partitioning, the assemblage appears to be spatially subdivided into two categories: those species restricted to almost a single habitat, and those widely distributed along several habitat types. Among the latter subset of species, it is possible to further differentiate among the species restricted to the ground and those specializing in the use of rocks: and finally, there exists among the latter species differences in the size of the rocks used. The ecological meaning of this differential spatial use is discussed.
Ortega-Rubio, A. (1992) -
Ortega-Rubio, A. (1993) -
Ortega-Rubio, A. & Pilorge, T. & Khodadoost, M. & Arriagal, L. (1986) -
Ortega, J. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2014) -
The interplay between ecological conditions and life histories has been widely acknowledged in vertebrates, particularly in lizards. Environmental conditions may exert different selective pressures and produce divergent phenotypes even in geographically and genetically close populations. The Iberian wall lizard constitutes a perfect model organism as it is considered a species complex with a complicated evolutionary history. Here, we focus on two proximate populations in which we examined adult morphology and reproductive investment of wild-caught lizards along a 500-m altitudinal gradient with contrasting environmental conditions, where adults show marked morphological differences in spite of being closely related. Also, we performed a common garden experiment to examine embryonic and hatchling growth. We focused on reproductive investment per clutch, incubation time, egg size, morphology and growth rate of hatchlings. Results showed clutch size differences between populations that were independent of the larger body size of highland females. However, there were no egg morphological differences between populations, except for egg width, and this difference disappeared after controlling for female body size. Hatchling lizards from both populations did not differ in morphology. Moreover, we did not observe differences between populations or sexes in hatchling growth. Overall, we provide evidence that the differences in adult body size and clutch size are not driven by size at hatching which is not contributed to by egg size, nor are intrinsic hatchling growth rates associated with the environmental conditions experienced in our common garden experiment, suggesting that adult phenotypes are not the result of intrinsic differences between populations.
Predation has profound effects on the phenotypes of animal prey and, in lizards, the relationship between coloration and antipredatory behaviour has been studied in depth. However, studies that address the relationships between dorsal patterns and tail coloration with escape behaviour in polymorphic lizards are absent in the literature. We describe dorsal morphs and measured tail coloration and escape behaviour in hatchling Iberian wall lizards, Podarcis hispanicus, a species with a previously undescribed female-restricted dorsal polymorphism (reticulated-blotched males, and either striped or reticulated-blotched females) and juvenile tails with conspicuous blue coloration, which is probably used to divert predator attacks towards the autotomizable tail. Overall we provide evidence for the existence of sexual dimorphism in tail ultraviolet reflectance between reticulated females and males, with striped females being intermediate. We identified sex/dorsal morph, body size and tail brightness as predictors of different aspects of escape behaviour and suggest the existence of two alternative escape strategies between striped and reticulated-blotched females that may be dependent on dorsal morph differences, independently of sex. Reticulated-blotched females, and also males (all reticulated-blotched), ran faster and spent less time paused than striped females, which might reflect an escape behaviour strategy based on endurance in striped females. In addition, lowland males displayed tail waving as a ‘last resort’ antipredator strategy that may be related to fatigue. We concluded that hatchling antipredatory behaviour is influenced by both dorsal pattern and tail conspicuousness.
Ortega, J. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2017) -
Growth rates have complex sources and may determine adult body size in organisms with indeterminate growth. Thus, the interpretation of interpopulation differences in body size along geographical gradients requires the examination of growth and to distinguish between the proximal and ultimate causes of it. Several studies support a link between growth rates and habitat production via climatic effects. Environmental constraints, such as food abundance, may be correlated with climatic conditions and could, in turn, limit growth rate because of limited energy availability. We performed a reciprocal transplant experiment to disentangle the effects of environmental and genetic factors on body size interpopulational divergence in the lizard Podarcis guadarramae along a 500-m elevation gradient with contrasting environmental conditions. Our results showed that the growing environment determined growth rates of juvenile lizards, independently of the population of origin. Hatchlings experiencing the high-altitude growing environment, which had colder and more humid climatic conditions, grew faster than those growing in the low-altitude environment. However, mother’s site of origin did not affect growth. We conclude that the drivers of growth rate differences in P. guadarramae lizards are probably related to between-sites differences in water and food availability.
Ortega, J. & Martín, J. & Crochet, P.-A. & López, P. & Clobert, J. (2019) -
Widespread species often show extensive phenotypic variation due to the contrasting abiotic and biotic factors that shape selective pressures in different environments. In this context, the gradual and predictable patterns of variation in climatic and environmental conditions found in mountain areas offer a great opportunity to explore intraspecific phenotypic variation. For instance, temperature is negatively correlated with altitude and virtually all aspects of the behavior and physiology of ectotherms are sensitive to body temperature. In this work, we tested the hypothesis that morphology, dorsal and ventral coloration and the chemical profile of femoral secretions show interpopulational and seasonal variation in the lacertid lizard (Podarcis liolepis). We compared lizards from three populations inhabiting lowland and highland habitats in the French Pyrenees that were closely related genetically. We found that highland lizards were larger, stockier, had longer heads and more femoral pores and had a darker dorsal coloration than lowland ones. In addition, we detected interpopulational differences in both the abundance and the richness of chemical compounds in the glandular secretions, and we also found seasonal variation in the overall chemical composition. Dorsal and ventral coloration differed seasonally and between populations. Ventral and dorsal brightness were higher in lowland than in highland lizards in the reproductive season whereas the reversed trend was found in the non-reproductive season but only for dorsal brightness. In addition, all lizards had browner dorsal coloration in the non-reproductive season, and lowland lizards were greener in the reproductive season. By integrating information from both visual and chemical systems, our works offers a comprehensive view of how these lizards communicate in a multimodal context.
Ortega, J. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2015) -
Sex-specific colour polymorphisms have been extensively documented in many different taxa. When polymorphism in colour pattern is restricted to females, the condition is known as female-limited pattern polymorphism (FPP), which has been less commonly addressed in vertebrates. FPP is present in several lizard species, although most research on lizards has focused on carotenoid- and pteridine-based coloration and not on melanin-based polymorphisms. In the present study, we focus on Iberian wall lizards, Podarcis hispanicus, where two female melanin-based dorsal patterns can be clearly distinguished: striped and reticulated-blotched. We indirectly tested the hypothesis that selection acts differentially among P. hispanicus female morphs to create alternative morph-specific phenotypic optima at different levels by investigating whether morphs differ in fitness proxies. We specifically examined whether the two female dorsal pattern morphs differed in adult morphology, dorsal coloration, immune response, reproductive investment, and growth. We did not find a relationship between melanin-based coloration and hatchling growth and immune response, despite a correlation between these traits possibly being expected as a result of pleiotropy in the melanocortin system. However, our results show that female dorsal morphs in P. hispanicus differ in terms of adult morphology, dorsal coloration, and reproductive investment. Reticulated-blotched P. hispanicus females had deeper heads and longer femora, less melanin, and more brownish coloration, and also had larger and heavier hatchlings than striped females.
Ortega, M. (1993) -
Ortega, Z. & Martín‐Vallejo, F.J. (2019) -
The thermal ecology of ectotherms has been studied for almost two centuries, but additional attention is currently being paid to the issue in order to understand how organisms deal with the environment in a climate change context. However, a consensus is still far away, due to the large number of factors involved and their complex interactions. In this context, three analyses in lacertid lizards were carried out: (1) a meta‐analysis, to test for differences between body and air temperatures from 71 populations, (2) a meta‐analysis concerning correlations between body and air temperatures from 60 populations, and (3) a multimodel inference using thermoregulation effectiveness indices from 45 populations. The importance of different factors, including body size, habitat, insuraliry, altitude, climate, and season, was evaluated in all analyses in order to model the response variables. A strong seasonality effect was observed, with a consistent pattern of less effective thermoregulation in summer compared to other seasons. Altitude was the second most important factor, with a consistent higher thermoregulation effort in populations occurring at high elevations (> 1000 m asl). Other factors, such as insularity or body size, can also be important, but did not exhibit a clear pattern. Finally, thermoregulation was less affected by climate and habitat type.
Ortega, Z. & Mencia, A. & Giroux, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2019) -
Most lizards maintain quite constant body temperatures by behavioural means. Seasonal variations of environmental factors, such as temperature, sunlight exposure and wind intensity, influence lizard thermoregulatory abilities. Understanding how seasonal environmental shifts influence lizards’ thermoregulation helps us to know how they deal behaviourally with environmental changes, in general. We examined seasonal shifts (spring vs. summer) in behavioural thermoregulation in Podarcis lilfordi from Binicodrell islet (Menorca, Spain). Operative temperatures varied between microhabitats and seasons, being lower in spring than in summer, regardless of sunlight exposure. Lizard body temperatures were also lower in spring than in summer. Lizards used sunny microhabitats more frequently in spring and shaded areas in summer. Habitat thermal quality was similar during both seasons, but lizards thermoregulated less accurately in spring than in summer. Thermoregulatory effectiveness was low in spring (0.28) and moderate in summer (0.76). In comparison with previously published results, our findings showed the marked seasonal variation in the effectiveness of thermoregulation amongst island populations, which should be considered in future comparative studies.
Ortega, Z. & Mencía, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2016) -
Antipredatory defenses are maintained when benefit exceeds cost. A weak predation pressure may lead insular lizards to tameness. Podarcis lilfordi exhibits a high degree of insular tameness, which may explain its extinction from the main island of Menorca when humans introduced predators. There are three species of lizards in Menorca: the native P. lilfordi, only in the surrounding islets, and two introduced lizards in the main island, Scelarcis perspicillata and Podarcis siculus. Besides, there are three species of snakes, all introduced: one non-sauriophagous (Natrix maura), one potentially non-sauriophagous (Rhinechis scalaris) and one sauriophagous (Macroprotodon mauritanicus). We studied the reaction to chemical cues of snakes of five populations: (1) P. lilfordi of Colom, (2) P. lilfordi of Aire, (3) P. lilfordi of Binicodrell, (4) S. perspicillata, and (5) P. siculus, ordered by increasing level of predation pressure. We aimed to assess the relationship between predation pressure and the degree of insular tameness regarding scent recognition. We hypothesized that P. lilfordi should show the highest degree of tameness, S. perspicillata should show intermediate responses, and P. siculus should show the highest wariness. Results are clear: neither P. lilfordi nor S. perspicillata recognize any of the snakes, while P. siculus recognizes the scent of M. mauritanicus, reacting with typical well-defined antipredatory behaviours. In general, our results suggest that chemical discrimination might be evolutionarily lost sooner than other antipredatory adaptations, such as tail autotomy or escape behaviour.
Ortega, Z. & Mencia, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2016) -
The León rock lizard, Iberolacerta galani, lives in isolated mountains of Spain.We studied the seasonal changes in the thermal biology of I. galani between spring and summer. We calculated precision, accuracy andeffectiveness of thermoregulation and the habitat thermal quality for spring, and compared with the values of summer. In addition, we studied how the shift in the thermal preferences of lizards would contribute to achieve a higher effectiveness of thermoregulation. Thermal preferences of León rock lizards are among the lowest in lacertids, and are also very narrow, maintaining the narrowness among seasons. As for summer (27.90–29.70 °C, mean value =28.76 °C), the thermal preferences of I. galani are also low in spring (29.60–31.10 °C, mean value =30.38 °C), supporting the idea that this species is adapted to cold environments. The habitat thermal quality is lower in spring (10.99 °C) than in summer (9.36 °C), while the effectiveness of thermoregulation is higher in spring (0.92) than in summer (0.80). We found that the seasonal shift in thermal preferences contributes significantly to enhance the effectiveness of thermoregulation in both seasons, more in spring (0.45 °C) than in summer (0.16 °C). Because I. galani inhabits isolated mountains, where the activity period is reduced from April to October, we hypothesize that the observed adaptation of the thermal preferences, which enhance thermoregulation to a larger extent in spring, may evolved to maximize performance during the reproductive season.
Alpine lizards living in restricted areas might be particularly sensitive to climate change. We studied thermal biology of Iberolacerta cyreni in high mountains of central Spain. Our results suggest that I. cyreni is a cold-adapted thermal specialist and an effective thermoregulator. Among ectotherms, thermal specialists are more threatened by global warming than generalists. Alpine lizards have no chance to disperse to new suitable habitats. In addition, physiological plasticity is unlikely to keep pace with the expected rates of environmental warming. Thus, lizards might rely on their behavior in order to deal with ongoing climate warming. Plasticity of thermoregulatory behavior has been proposed to buffer the rise of environmental temperatures. Therefore, we studied the change in body and environmental temperatures, as well as their relationships, for I. cyreni between the 1980s and 2012. Air temperatures have increased more than 3.5°C and substrate temperatures have increased by 6°C in the habitat of I. cyreni over the last 25 years. However, body temperatures of lizards have increased less than 2°C in the same period, and the linear relationship between body and environmental temperatures remains similar. These results show that alpine lizards are buffering the potential impact of the increase in their environmental temperatures, most probably by means of their behavior. Body temperatures of I. cyreni are still cold enough to avoid any drop in fitness. Nonetheless, if warming continues, behavioral buffering might eventually become useless, as it would imply spending too much time in shelter, losing feeding, and mating opportunities. Eventually, if body temperature exceeds the thermal optimum in the near future, fitness would decrease abruptly.
We studied, at 2200 m altitude, the thermal biology of the Pyrenean rock lizard, Iberolacerta bonnali, in glacial cirque of Cotatuero (National Park of Ordesa, Huesca, Spain). The preferred thermal range (PTR) of I. bonnali indicates that it is a cold-adapted ectotherm with a narrow PTR (29.20-32.77 °C). However, its PTR (3.57 °C) is twice as wide as other Iberolacerta lizards, which may be explained by its broader historical distribution. The studied area is formed by a mosaic of microhabitats which offer different operative temperatures, so that lizards have, throughout their entire daily period of activity, the opportunity to choose the most thermally suitable substrates. I. bonnali achieves an effectiveness of thermoregulation of 0.95, which makes it the highest value found to date among Lacertidae, and one of the highest among lizards. Their relatively wide distribution, their wider PTR, and the excellent ability of thermoregulation, would make I. bonnali lizards less vulnerable to climate change than other species of Iberolacerta. Thanks to its difficult access, the studied area is not visited by a large number of tourists, as are other areas of the National Park. Thus, it is a key area for the conservation of the Pyrenean rock lizard. By shuttling between suitable microhabitats, lizards achieve suitable body temperatures during all day. However, such thermally suitable microhabitats should vary in other traits than thermal quality, such as prey availability or predation risk. Hence, it seems that these not-thermal traits are not constraining habitat selection and thermoregulation in this population. Therefore, future research in this population may study the causes that would lead lizards to prioritize thermoregulation to such extent in this population.
Thermal biology of lizards affects their overall physiological performance. Thus, it is crucial to study how abiotic constraints influence thermoregulation. We studied the effect of wind speed on thermoregulation in an endangered mountain lizard (Iberolacerta aurelioi). We compared two populations of lizards: one living in a sheltered rocky area and the other living in a mountain ridge, exposed to strong winds. The preferred temperature range of I. aurelioi, which reflects thermal physiology, was similar in both areas, and it was typical of a cold specialist. Although the thermal physiology of lizards and the structure of the habitat were similar, the higher wind speed in the exposed population was correlated with a significant decrease in the effectiveness thermoregulation, dropping from 0.83 to 0.74. Our results suggest that wind reduces body temperatures in two ways: via direct convective cooling of the animal and via convective cooling of the substrate, which causes conductive cooling of the animal. The detrimental effect of wind on thermoregulatory effectiveness is surprising, since lizards are expected to thermoregulate more effectively in more challenging habitats. However, wind speed would affect the costs and benefits of thermoregulation in more complex ways than just the cooling of animals and their habitats. For example, it may reduce the daily activity, increase desiccation, or complicate the hunting of prey. Finally, our results imply that wind should also be considered when developing conservation strategies for threatened ectotherms.
Mountain lizards are highly vulnerable to climate change, and the continuous warming of their habitats could be seriously threatening their survival. We aim to compare the thermal ecology and microhabitat selection of a mountain lizard, Iberolacerta galani, and a widely distributed lizard, Podarcis bocagei, in a montane area. Both species are currently in close syntopy in the study area, at 1,400 m above the sea level. We determined the precision, accuracy and effectiveness of thermoregulation, and the thermal quality of habitat for both species. We also compared the selection of thermal microhabitats between both species. Results show that I. galani is a cold-adapted thermal specialist with a preferred temperature range of 27.929.7 C, while P. bocagei would be a thermal generalist, with a broader and higher preferred temperature range (30.134.5 C). In addition, I. galani selects rocky substrates while P. bocagei selects warmer soil and leaf litter substrates. The thermal quality of the habitat is higher for P. bocagei than for I. galani. Finally, P. bocagei achieves a significantly higher effectiveness of thermoregulation (0.87) than I. galani (0.80). Therefore, these mountain habitat conditions seem currently more suitable for performance of thermophilic generalist lizards than for cold-specialist lizards.
Temperature determines all aspects of the biology of ectotherms. Although sexual differences in thermal ecology are not the rule in lizards, some species exhibit such differences.We studied the effect of sex and reproductive condition on the thermoregulation of an introduced population of Scelarcis perspicillata during the summer in Menorca (Balearic Islands, Spain). These lizards live in the wall surfaces of a limestone quarry, where the sun is scarce because of the narrowness of the quarry walls. The population is sexually dimorphic, with larger males than females. We measured body temperature (Tb) of adult males and females in the field, and air (Ta) and substrate temperature (Ts) at the capture sites, and recorded exposure to sunlight, height of the perch, and type of substrate. We also recorded operative temperatures (Te) as a null hypothesis of thermoregulation. Finally, we studied the thermal preferences of adult males and females in a laboratory thermal gradient. Thermal preferences were similar for pregnant and non-pregnant females, and sex did not affect the thermal preferences of lizards, even after controlling for the effect of body size. However, in the field, females achieved higher Tb than males, and occupied microhabitats with higher Ta and Ts and lower perch heights than males. Furthermore, females selected perches in full sun at a higher frequency than males. As a consequence, females achieved a higher accuracy and effectiveness of thermoregulation (0.89) than males (0.84). Thus, all else being equal, females would achieve a higher performance than males. The observed results are attributable to sexual differences in behaviour, probably in relation with the reproductive season.
We studied the thermal ecology of an introduced population of the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus, in Menorca (Balearic Islands, Spain). We measured field body temperatures of adult lizards, as well as air and substrate temperatures at their capture places, during spring and summer. We assessed the relations between body and air temperatures, and between body and substrate temperatures, for both seasons. We studied the preferred temperature range of P. siculus in a laboratory thermal gradient. In addition, we recorded the operative temperatures of the habitat of the Italian wall lizard during summer. Then, we calculated, the three indexes of behavioural thermoregulation for summer: thermal quality of the habitat, accuracy of thermoregulation, and effectiveness of thermoregulation. As expected, our results show that Italian wall lizards achieved significantly higher body temperatures during summer than during spring. Body temperatures were not significantly related to air temperatures in spring, but the correlation was significant in summer. In addition, body temperatures were not significantly related to substrate temperatures for any season. The preferred temperature range of the species was similar for males and females: 28.40-31.57 °C. Introduced Italian wall lizards of Menorca are effective thermoregulators, with an effectiveness of 0.82 during summer.
Ortega, Z. & Mencia, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2017) -
We studied the thermal ecology of the montane Iberian rock lizard, Iberolacerta monticola, in the western area of its distribution at the Serra da Estrela (Portugal). We calculated the precision of thermoregulation and the indices of thermal quality of the habitat, and accuracy and effectiveness of thermoregulation. To complete the study of the thermal ecology, we assessed the relationships between body and environmental temperatures, and we described the thermal and spatial heterogeneity of the habitat. Our results indicate that the Iberian rock lizard is a cold-specialist, with a preferred temperature range between 29.80 and 31.60 °C. Thus, precision of thermoregulation is 1.8 °C, which is a normal range in thermal specialists, like other species of the genus Iberolacerta. This result is important because being thermal specialists and living in mountaintops make Iberian mountain lizards particularly vulnerable to global warming. The habitat of I. monticola at the Serra da Estrela is formed of microhabitats offering different operative temperatures, which allows lizards to select the most suitable for thermoregulation at any time of the day. Iberian rock lizards achieve an effectiveness of thermoregulation of 0.86, thanks to careful thermoregulatory behaviour. Rocky microhabitats occupy more than 50% of its habitat, so is probable that lizards are selecting rocks to warm themselves faster, minimising the costs of thermoregulation. A possible thigmothermic component of this kind would be unique among the species of Iberolacerta.
Ortega, Z. & Mencía, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2017) -
Alien predators may impose a great threat to naïve prey. Ibiza wall lizards (Podarcis pityusensis) live in Ibiza, a snake-free island until 2003. We studied the lizards’ discrimination of scents of two invader snakes: one that depredates lizards, the horseshoe whip snake (Hemorrhois hippocrepis), and another that does not, the ladder snake (Rhinechis scalaris). We compared two populations of Ibiza wall lizards: one from the main island of Ibiza, which coexists with both snakes, and another from the nearby snake-free islet of Sal Rossa. Lizards from Ibiza recognized the scent of the horseshoe whip snake and responded with clear antipredatory behaviours. However, they reacted to the scent of the ladder snake similarly to that of the controls (odourless control and pungent scent). Lizards from Sal Rossa did not respond to any of the snakes or the controls. Our results show that lizards can rapidly acquire the ability to react to a novel predator. As only about ten generations of lizards have coexisted with snakes, the most plausible explanation to our results is that lizards have learned to associate the scent of the predatory snake with a threat. This is the first study reporting the rapid acquisition of lizards’ antipredatory responses to the chemical cues of novel predators. However, more research is needed in order to identify the mechanisms implicated in the response.
Ortega, Z. & Mencia, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2018) -
The ability to early detect a potential predator is essential for survival. The potential of Iberolacerta cyreni lizards to discriminate between chemical cues of their two predatory snakes Coronella austriaca (a non-venomous active-hunter saurophagous specialist) and Vipera latastei (a venomous sit-and-wait generalist) was evaluated herein. A third snake species, Natrix maura, which does not prey on lizards, was used as a pungent control. Thus, the behaviour of I. cyreni was studied regarding four treatments: (1) C. austriaca scent, (2) V. latastei scent, (3) N. maura scent and (4) odourless control. Lizards showed antipredator behaviour (such as slow-motion and tail waving) to C. austriaca and V. latastei chemicals. The antipredatory response was similar for both predators. This ability to react with an intensive behavioural pattern to the chemical cues of their predatory snakes may prevent lizards from being detected, and, if detected, dissuade the predator from beginning a pursuit.
Ortega, Z. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2012) -
Ortega, Z. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2016) -
In temperate areas, seasonal changes entail a source of environmental variation potentially important for organisms. Temperate ectotherms may be adapted to the seasonal fluctuations in environmental traits. For lizards, behavioural adaptations regarding microhabitat selection could arise to improve thermoregulation during the different seasons. However, little is still known about which traits influence microhabitat selection of lizards and their adaptation to seasonality. Here we used Podarcis guadarramae to study the role of potential intrinsic (body size, sex, age) and environmental traits (air and substrate temperatures, wind speed, and sunlight) in the seasonal changes of body temperatures and microhabitat selection of lizards. We measured body temperatures of lizards in the same habitat during the four seasons and compared the climatic variables of the microhabitats selected by lizards with the mean climatic conditions available in their habitat. Body temperatures were similar for adult males, adult females, and juveniles within each season, being significantly higher in summer than in the other seasons, and in spring than in winter. The same pattern was found regarding substrate and air temperatures of the selected microhabitats. Wind speed and air temperature did not affect body temperatures, while body length was marginally significant and substrate temperatures and season did affect the body temperatures of lizards. Our results during the whole year support the idea that the seasonality could be the most important factor affecting body temperatures of these temperate species. Regarding microhabitat selection, environmental constraints, as environmental temperatures and wind speed, affected the seasonal changes on behavioural thermoregulation of lizards. This effect was similar between sexes and age classes, and was independent of body size. In addition, importance of sunlight exposure of the selected microhabitats (full sun, filtered sun, or shade) also changed between seasons. Hence, environmental constraints were the main forces driving seasonal changes in microhabitat selection.
Ortega, Z. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2017) -
Selection of thermally suitable microhabitats plays an important role in the thermoregulation of ectotherms. We studied microhabitat preferences in two populations of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, that live on two coastal islets of Menorca (Balearic Islands, Spain: Aire and Colom). To assess the roles of different microclimatic traits driving lizards’ decisions, we employed a case/control design. We measured microclimate variables in locations used by lizards (cases) and in paired random unused locations (controls). By comparing paired cases vs controls, we prevent spatial and temporal variation of environmental conditions. In order to test if microhabitat selection depends on thermoregulation requirements, we studied lizards in three situations: (1) ‘cold’, when body temperatures (Tb) of lizards were below their preferred temperature range (PTR), (2) ‘optimal’, when Tb were within the PTR, and (3) ‘warm’, when Tb exceeded the PTR. Substrate temperature was the main abiotic trait that determined microhabitat preferences of P. lilfordi, sometimes in conjunction with air temperature, while wind speed and humidity were not significant. ‘Cold’ lizards selected warmer microhabitats than the mean, but only on Colom islet. Notably, ‘optimal’ lizards also preferred microhabitats that were warmer than their surroundings, and ‘warm’ lizards did not select cold microhabitats in order to cool themselves, but rather acted randomly regarding temperature, wind and humidity. These results for ‘optimal’ and ‘warm’ lizards were consistent for both islets. We also studied the beginning and end of lizards’ diel activity. We found that lizards on Aire were active for approximately one hour more per day than lizards on Colom, which might be related to differences in melanism. However, activity started at an air temperature of approximately 17–19°C and finished at approximately the same temperature on both islets.
Ortega, Z. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Garrido, M. & Guerra, C. & Villa-Garcia, A. & Alonso-Fernández, T. (2014) -
During spring and summer, we studied the thermal ecology of two populations of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, from two coastal islets of Menorca (Balearic Islands, Spain): Aire and Colom. We calculated the accuracy of thermoregulation, that is, thFe extent to which body temperatures are close to species` thermal optima, the thermal quality of the habitat as the proximity of operative temperatures to thermal optima and effectiveness of thermoregulation, as the extent to which accuracy is higher than thermal quality of the habitat. We found that seasonality affects thermoregulation differently, depending on the lizard population. Those effects are consistent for all thermal parameters under study. The effects of seasonality were significantly stronger in Aire than in Colom islet. Many factors may be responsible for this different effect of seasonality, from differences on physiological traits to differences in the environmental conditions of the two islets, as their resource availability, predator pressure or habitat structure. Identifying the factors that boost or inhibit those seasonal changes would be important to understand thermoregulation in lizards. Slight changes on two similar populations can lead to great differences in thermal ecology of conspecific ectotherms.
Ortiz-González, J. (2018) -
Ortlieb, F. (2016) -
Ortlieb, F. & Bednarczyk, S. & Torkler, O. (2017) -
Ortlieb, F. & Dunst, A. & Kliemt, M. & Torkler, O. & chewe, B. & Brauer, A. (2019) -
In einem Umsiedlungsprojekt für die Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) im Rahmen eines Gleiserneuerungsvorhabens im Raum Berlin konnten 1797 Zauneidechsen, sowie 1081 Kleinsäuger mithilfe von Eimerfallen an Fangzäunen abgefangen werden. Der systematische Einsatz von Ausstiegshilfen für Kleinsäuger und Laufkäfer verringerte in diesem Projekt die Fangeffektivität für die Zauneidechsen mithilfe der Fangeimer um etwa 17 % (299 Zauneidechsen). Die Beifänge der Kleinsäuger konnten signifi-kant und um ca. 76 % (825 Kleinsäuger) reduziert werden. Mithilfe eines Kantholzes als Kletterhilfe konnten im Vergleich zu einem Rundholz mehr Säugetiere geschont und mehr Zauneidechsen gefangen werden. Die Fangzaunmethode (mit und ohne Ausstiegshilfen) in Abfangprojekten für die Zauneidechse wird im Kontext der Er-fahrungen aus dem Amphibienschutz auch unter ethischen Gesichtspunkten kritisch diskutiert.
Ortner, O. (2006) -
Ortner, O. & Wallentin, G. (2022) -
Osenegg, K. (1995) -
Potential predators of the Common Lizard, Lacerta vivipara and some of the predators identified in feeding experiments are presented for four oviparous populations, situated in the French Pyrenees. The Smooth Sanke, Coronella austriaca and the Asp Viper, Vipera aspis are considered as most important potential lizard predators among vertebrates. All other potential predators among vertebrates known form the four altitudinally graduated populations am enumerated, and literature is discussed. Predators of L. vivipara`s eggs are the Mole Cricket, Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa and species of the genus Carabus. The predators’ influence on population densites is briefly discussed.
Osenegg, Kirsten (1991) -
Osenegg, Kirsten (1995) -
Osipov, F. & Vergun, A. & Ryskov, A. (2016) -
The all-female Caucasian rock lizard Darevskia rostombekowi and other parthenogenetic species of this genus reproduce normally via true parthenogenesis. Typically, diploid parthenogenetic reptiles exhibit some amount of clonal diversity. However, allozyme data from D. rostombekowi have suggested that this species consists of a single clone. In the present study, we evaluate variation at three microsatellite loci in 42 specimens of D. rostombekowi from four populations from Armenia. The analyses reveal multiclonal genetic structure in this species. All individuals are heterozygous at the loci and they yield five genotypes. The major clone occurs in 24 individuals and involves three populations. Four rare clones involve one or several individuals from one or two populations.
Osipov, F.A. & Bobrov, V.V. & Dergunova, N.N. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Petrosyan, V.G. (2021) -
Osipov, F.A. & Bobrov, V.V. & Dergunova, N.N. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Petrosyan, V.G. (2023) -
In this work, we tested the conditions for fulfilling the concept of geographic parthe- nogenesis by a comparative analysis of the breadth of the ecological niches of parental and par- thenogenetic lizards of the genus Darevskia with a various number of established hybridization events. Estimates of the breadth of ecological niches of the parthenogenetic species D. ros- tombekowi Nb = 0.6(±0.08) and parental bisexual species D. raddei raddei – Nb = 0.86(±0.9), D. portschinskii – Nb = 1.21(±0.17) showed that for this parthenogenetic species one of the most important conditions of geographic parthenogenesis is fulfilled, i.e. the niche breadth of the parthenogenetic species is smaller than its parental bisexual species. The niche breadth of another parthenogenetic species D. dahli Nb = 0.86(±0.12) is smaller than that of the «paternal» species D. portschinskii – Nb = 1.21(±0.17), but larger than that of the «maternal» species D. mixta Nb = 0.48 (±0.08), which only partially agrees with the condition of geographic par- thenogenesis. This mismatch is due to the fact that D. dahli was formed as a result of several independent hybridization events, which resulted in the formation of multiple clonal lines de- rived from different parental pairs of D. portschinskii and D. mixta.
Осипов Ф. А., Бобров В. В., Дергунова Н. Н., Аракелян М. С., Петросян В. Г. (2023) -
Проведена проверка условий выполнения концепции географического пар- теногенеза путем сравнительного анализа ширины экологических ниш родительских и партеногенетических ящериц рода Darevskia с различным количеством установленных событий гибридизации. Оценки ширины экологических ниш партеногенетического вида D. rostombekowi Nb = 0.6 (±0.08) и родительских двуполых видов D. raddei raddei – Nb = 0.86 (±0.9), D. portschinskii – Nb=1.21(±0.17) показали, что для этого партеногенетического вида выполняется одно из важнейших условий географического партеногенеза, т.е. ширина ни- ши партеновида меньше его родительских двуполых видов. Ширина ниши другого парте- ногенетического вида D. dahli Nb = 0.86 (±0.12) меньше, чем у отцовского вида D. portschin- skii – Nb = 1.21(±0.17), однако больше чем у материнского вида D. mixta Nb = 0.48 (±0.08), что лишь частично согласуется с условием географического партеногенеза. Такое нарушение связано с тем, что D. dahli была образована в результате нескольких независимых актов ги- бридизации, которые привели к образованию множественных клональных линий, произо- шедших от разных родительских пар D. portschinskii и D. mixta.
Osipov, F.A. & Vergun, A.A. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Petrosyan, R.K. & Dergunova, N.N. & Neymark, L.A. & Petrosyan, V.G. (2021) -
The results of the analysis of the genetic variability of parthenogenetic Darevskia rostombekowi (Darevsky, 1957) species using four microsatellite-containing loci are presented. Based on 118 records with geographical coordinates of the presence of this species in Transcaucasia, the maps of potential range were created. The analysis of the genetic structure of populations demonstrated that despite the established multiclonality (seven clonal lines in four populations), D. rostombekowi was formed as a result of a single act of hybridization between closely related bisexual species. The predicted distribution of D. rostombekowi using the modelling of potential range revealed new suitable habitats, where the presence of the species has not been reported previously. The results of this study and the absence of multiple acts of hybridization during the formation of these clones may indicate a regression of population size of the species. Consequently, the estimation of the conservation status of this parthenogenetic species seems to be justified.
Osipov, F.A. & Vergun, A.A. & Petrosyan, V.G. (2018) -
Oskyrko, O. & Jablonski, D. (2021) -
This study provides distribution data for 12 species of reptiles in the Southern Bug eco-corridor located within the steppe zone, Mykolaiv Oblast (province), Ukraine. We compiled 935 records from published literature (324), from public databases (68), and from 12 field surveys we made in 2016–2020 (543). All records were mapped on to a grid of 10×10 km, representing the 294 cells of the studied area. We present new distributional data for Podarcis tauricus. For all the other species, our records add new localities that fall within areas where these reptiles were previously reported. Species richness and Shannon’s H’ index show that herpetofauna diversity was higher in the areas along the Southern Bug River. The maximum number of records within a single cell was 118 (for 10 species) in this oblast. Also the high number of identified reptile chorotypes (nine) within the Mykolaiv Oblast revealed that southern Ukraine is an important zoogeographical territory in Europe. These data provide the basis for future biogeographical and ecological studies and conservation priorities.
Oskyrko, O. & Sos, T. & Vacheva, E. & Vlad, S.E. & Cogalniceanu, D. & Uller, T. & Feiner, N. & Carretero, M.A. (2022) -
The origin of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) populations in south-eastern Europe (namely in Bulgaria and Romania), representing the north-eastern range border of this species, was addressed using mitochondrial DNA. We compared cytochrome b sequences from Bulgaria and Romania with those from the contiguous range in Central Europe that are available from previous studies. We recorded five main haplogroups in Bulgaria and Romania, belonging to the Central Balkan clade. However, haplogroup III was recorded in more localities than previously found. Additionally, signs of haplotype admixture were identified in several populations along the Danube River. The presence of the Southern Alps haplotype in one population from Otopeni, Bucharest (Romania) and its close phylogenetic relationships to north Italy populations suggests human-mediated introductions of this wall lizard clade in Romania. Our results confirm that P. muralis can have non-native lineages and admixture through active human-mediated transport.
Oskyrko, O. & Sreelatha, L.B. & Hanke, G.F. & Deichsel, G. & Carretero, M.A. (2022) -
Invasive species are one of the main causes of biodiversity loss worldwide. As introduced, populations may increase in abundance and expand geographical range, so does the potential for negative impacts on native communities. As such, it is necessary to understand the processes driving range expansion, before a species becomes established in new areas. Through an investigation into capacity for population growth and range expansion of introduced populations of a non-native lizard, we aimed to demonstrate how multi-scale factors influence spatial spread, population growth, and invasion potential in introduced species. The Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus) was introduced multiple times to the United States with extant populations in California, Kansas, New Jersey, and New York. Recently, a single specimen was discovered in British Columbia, Canada, and unstudied populations are on Orcas Island and Missouri (USA). We used phylogenetic analysis of mtDNA sequences (cytb gene) of individuals sampled from these introduced populations and across the native range to identify potential source populations. Our phylogenetic analysis result with documentation of the introductions revealed that the Canadian individual is derived from the Tuscany clade (together with samples from Kansas and New York). The New Jersey population is likely from the Adriatic clade and the Californian one from Sicily. The Orcas Island and Missouri populations still require study. Consequently, humans are key drivers of the distribution of alien reptiles in North America, but the distributions are determined by a complex interplay between human activities, geographic factors and species features. Genetic evidence is essential for reliable biogeographic assessment of invasive species, particularly in systems with a long history of human influence.
Oskyrko, O. & Sreelatha, L.B. & Silva-Rocha, I. & Sos, T. & Vlad, S.E. & Cogalniceanu, D. & Iskenderov, T.M. & Doronin, I.V. & Carretero, M.A. (2021) -
Oskyrko, O. & Sreelatha, L.B. & Silva-Rocha, I. & Sos, T. & Vlad, S.E. & Cogalniceanu, D. & Stanescu, F. & Iskenderov, T.M. & Doronin, I.V. & Lisici, D. & Carretero, M.A. (2022) -
In recent decades, many reptile species have been introduced outside their native ranges, either accidentally through the transportation of goods and materials (e.g., plants, construction materials), but also intentionally through the pet trade. As a paradigmatic example, the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus, native to the Italian Peninsula, Sicily and the north Adriatic coast, has been introduced in several nearby islands since historical times (Corsica, Sardinia, Menorca). Besides these regions, scattered populations were later reported from the Iberian Peninsula, France, Switzerland, Turkey, Greece, the United Kingdom and North America. Here, we provide molecular evidence regarding the introduction and origin of P. siculus in six new populations outside its native range: Romania (Bucharest and Alba Iulia), inland Croatia (Zagreb and Karlovac), Italy (Lampedusa Island) and Azerbaijan (Baku). Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the Alba Iulia (Romania) population originated from a single clade (Tuscany), while the population from Azerbaijan is admixed including two distinct clades, one similar to those found in Sicily and the other present across the Tuscany clade. Samples from Bucharest also have admixed origins in Tuscany and the Adriatic clades. Less surprisingly, samples from Zagreb and Karlovac are included in the Adriatic clade while those from Lampedusa originated from Sicily. Overall, our results further demonstrate that P. siculus is able to establish outside of its native range even under different climatic conditions, not particularly from specific clades or source areas. Also, for the first time in this species, our results indicate that repeated human introductions promote lineage admixture and enhance their invasive potential.
Oskyrko, O.S. & Nekrasova, O.D. & Marushchak, O.Y. (2018) -
Oskyrko, S. & Laakonen, H. & Silva-Roche, I. & Jablonski, D. & Marushchak, O. & Uller, T. & Carretero, M.A. (2020) -
The phylogenetic relationships and possible origin of a putative non-native population of Podarcis muralis in Ukraine were assessed based on sequences of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Ukrainian lizards belong to two, distinct mitochondrial lineages (haplogroups), both occurring within the Central Balkan clade, which includes most of central and south-eastern European populations. From overall three detected Ukrainian haplotypes, one haplotype share same genetic signal with the hyplotype from the locality Bjala (Bulgaria), the other two are unique for Ukrainian population. Two of haplotypes correspond with haplogroup covering large geographic region of Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania. These results reinforce previous findings that the species has the ability to establish new populations out of its native range. While most introductions to Germany and Britain have been deliberate, it appears likely that human transport of goods via the Danube river of goods is responsible for the range expansion into Ukraine.
Osojnik, N. (2012) -
Osojnik, N. & Zagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Vrezec, A. (2013) -
The lizards Podarcis muralis and Iberolacerta horvathi display an overall similarity in morphology and ecology. Although they are widely sympatric in part of their distribution range of Slovenia, areas of altitudinal segregation have been observed. Ecophysiological traits such as preferred body temperatures (Tp) and rates of evaporative water loss (EWL) are some of the factors likely to be subjacent to this pattern. We expect the species that is more abundant in higher altitudes to have lower Tp and higher EWL (due to lower environmental temperatures at higher elevations) than the species that is more abundant in lowlands. We conducted lab experiments to determine whether intra- and interspecific variation in these two physiological traits exists. Contrary to expectations, the means of Tp were similar between the species, but their seasonal dynamics differed, which indicates that thermal accuracy might be more important. Species differed in seasonal (and daily) variation of Tp, rising from spring to summer more in P. muralis than in I. horvathi. Comparing instantaneous EWL, our results showed interspecific differences with higher values in P. muralis than in I. horvathi. Throughout a 12-h period, the accumulative EWL was also always higher for P. muralis than for I. horvathi, with the greatest differences occurring after 9–12 h of the experiment. Further studies should focus on investigating if these divergent physiological characteristics of both species are associated with their habitat use (in terms of thermal and water environment) and species interaction.
Osojnik, N. & Zagar, A. & Vrezec, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2010) -
Distribution of the genera Podarcis and lberolacerta in Europe have been hypothesized to derive from current and past interactions. Among the putative factors involved, thermal ecology is expected to play a determinant role. As a first step in this research, here we perform a comparative analysis of the preferred temperatures (Tp) by representatives of both genera living in sympatry. Because Tp carries substantial phylogenetic inertia, we expect derive predictions for other similar species tandems. Podarcis muralis and lberolacetfa horvathi display overall similarity in morfometry, coloration and ecology. While P. muralis is a widespread species in Europe occupying a variety of microhabitats, including urban areas, I. horvathi is endemic to Southern Alps and Dinaric Mountains living in rocky habitats but never near human settlements. Sympatry of both species has been recorded in Italy, Austria and, recently, Slovenia. Slovenian I. horvathi is more found at higher altitudes whereas I? muralis shows the opposite trend suggesting higher Tp; To test our hypothesis we have preformed experiments in laboratory thermo gradients (20 -50°C; measurements at 11 hourly intervals) with specimen form a sympatric area from the KoEevska region (SE Slovenia). Preliminary results with males indicate that, contrary to the expectations, Tp were slightly higher in I. horvathi than in P. muralis. However, such differences were only significant in the central hours of the day, hence, P. muralis being more variable daily. This pattern, suggesting more importance of thermal tolerance than thermoregulatory set point, is to be tested by further field studies.
Ostanek, E. (2017) -
The egg-laying subspecies of viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara carniolica was first described in Slovenia was thought to be the only subspecies present in the area. However, none of previous studies explored populations above 1200 m a.s.l. In this thesis we searched for the presence of viviparous subspecies Zootoca vivipara vivipara in Slovenia and for the morphological tratis that would warrant identification of subspecies in the field. We studied five regions, and confirmed the presence of the nominal subspecies Z. v. vivipara on Pohorje in NE part of Slovenia. In the same region, albeit on lower altitudes, lives also egg-laying subspecies Z. v. carniolica. We assume that the region presents a contact zone between both subspecies. We found no reliable morphological characteristics for suspsecies identification; potentially useful is the coloration of female belly, yellow, orange or pale in nominal and only pale in egg laying subspecies.
Ostenrath, F. (1973) -
Ostrovskikh S.V. (2022) -
Ota, H. (1998) -
This paper analyzes the phylogeographical patterns of amphibian and reptile lineages distributed in the Ryukyu islands south of the Tokara Gap on the basis of relevant distributional data and phylogenetic hypotheses hitherto published. Results indicate the numerical dominance of highly relict lineages in the central Ryukyus, and the occurences of a few more or less relict lineages in the Miyako Group as well. On the other hand, most species and subspecies endemic to the Yaeyama Group or to the Yaeyama and Miyako Groups are considered to be direct consequences of vicariance with adjacent regions. Three major hypotheses regarding the Cenozoic paleogeography of the central and the southern Ryukyus are examined in the light of the present results and a modified hypothesis is proposed accordingly.
Ota, H. & Honda, M. & Chen, S.-L. & Hikida, T. & Panha, S. & Oh, H.-S. & Matsui, M. (2002) -
Historical relationships were inferred for the oriental lizards of the genus Takydromus Daudin 1802 (Lacertidae) on the basis of DNA sequences. Of the 17 species currently recognized for the genus, 13 species represented by 42 specimens from 29 localities were examined. Maximum-likelihood and maximum-parsimony analyses of data for 829 aligned sites from parts of the mitochondrial 12S and 16S rRNA genes yielded relationships that, while showing no substantial discrepancy with each other, were strikingly different from a currently prevailing phylogenetic hypothesis from a parsimony analysis of morphological characters. Based on the results of these molecular analyses, supplemented by results of the morphological analysis that offered robust evidence for positions of two additional species (T. khasiensis and T. sylvaticus), the following interrelationships were hypothesized as the most preferred phylogeny: (kuehnei (sexlineatus khasiensis))(tachydromoides ((smaragdinus (sauteri (dorsalis sylvaticus))) (amurensis (((formosanus wolteri) hsuehshanensis)(toyamai (septentrionalis stejnegeri)))))). These interrelationships indicate: (1) invalidity of Platyplacopus Boulenger 1917, which was recently resurrected as a subgenus of Takydromus on the basis of the morphological analysis; (2) homoplasy in states of some morphological characters, such as green dorsal coloration, that were considered as synapomorphs of certain nodes in the morphological analysis; and (3) involvement of the genus in a series of vicariances in both the continental and insular parts of eastern Eurasia. Due to the paucity of available samples, phylogenetic status of T. intermedius and T. haughtonianus remain to be examined in future studies.
Otalora, K. & Riera, J.L. & Tavecchia, G. & Rotger, A. & Igual, J.M., Trotta, J.-R. & Baldo, L. (2024) -
Islands provide a great system to explore the processes that maintain genetic diversity and promote local adaptation. We explored the genomic diversity of the Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi, an endemic species characterized by numerous small insular popula- tions with large phenotypic diversity. Using the newly available genome for this species, we characterized more than 300,000 SNPs, merging genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) data with previously published restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-Seq) data, providing a dataset of 16 island populations (191 individuals) across the range of species distribution (Menorca, Mallorca, and Cabrera). Results indicate that each islet hosts a well-differentiated population (FST = 0.247 ± 0.09), with no recent immigration/ translocation events. Contrary to expectations, most populations harbor a considerable genetic diversity (mean nucleotide diversity, Pi = 0.144 ± 0.021), characterized by overall low inbreeding values (FIS < 0.1). While the genetic diversity significantly decreased with decreasing islet surface, maintenance of substantial genetic diversity even in tiny islets suggests variable selection or other mechanisms that buffer genetic drift. Maximum- likelihood tree based on concatenated SNP data confirmed the existence of the two major independent lineages of Menorca and Mallorca/Cabrera. Multiple lines of evi- dence, including admixture and root testing, robustly placed the origin of the species in the Mallorca Island, rather than in Menorca. Outlier analysis mainly retrieved a strong signature of genome differentiation between the two major archipelagos, especially in the sexual chromosome Z. A set of proteins were target of multiple outliers and primar- ily associated with binding and catalytic activity, providing interesting candidates for future selection studies. This study provides the framework to explore crucial aspects of the genetic basis of phenotypic divergence and insular adaptation.
Otte, R. (1983) -
This article deals with lizards who reproduce par- thenogenetically. Parthenogenesis is a fonn of re- production, in which the ovum dcvelopes to a new intact individual without being fertilized. This form of reproduction is known to exist for severdl species of lizards. Though there is no evidence for it, it is possible that some species have a special fonn of parthenogenesis, known as gynogenesis. In this special case a copulation takes place. but the ovum is not fertilized. A spenn only touches the ovum to initiatethedivisionoftheovum. . The ovum in parthenogenetic lizards is fonned by meiosis, as is the case in nonnally reproducing lizards. To maintain the right number of chromo- somes it is most likely that there is a premeiotic doubling o f the chromosomes. In general parthenogenetic lizards live in isolated places. or in places where there is a very short period fit for reproduction (or in places which are a com- bination of those). Though Lacerta mzisexua/is is kept in a terrarium succesfully (and bred with) it is assumed that. in general , it is difficult to keep parthe- nogenetic lizards in a terrarium.
Ottonello, D. & Lamagni, L. (2008) -
Ouboter, P.E. (1974) -
July 1973 five species of reptiles and one amphibian species were seen in a coastal area near Otranto (Puglia, Italy). Observations were made on the behaviour oft wo of them: Lacerta sicula campestris and Lacerta viridis fejervaryi.
Ouboter, P.E. (1975) -
Notes are given on a population of Lacerta sicula sicula Rafinesque, living on a camping site near Salerno, Italy.
In June and July, 1973, the Monacone Rock (near the Faraglione Rocks, Province of Naples, Italy) was visited, and habitat and behaviour of the endemic Lacerta sicula monaconensis E i mer, 1881, were studied.
Ouboter, P.E. (1976) -
In a crossbreed between Lacerta pityusensis kameriana Mertens 1927 and Lacerta pityusensis vedrae L. Müller 1927 the juveniles mostly resembled the female Lacerta p. vedrae.
Ouboter, P.E. (1981) -
In the summers of 1974 till 1979 microdistribution of Podarcis sicula saffti was examined. Areas without much vegetation and areas with dense vegetation have low densities. Horizontal space, predators, parasites, interspecific competition, shelter and dew appear to be non important factors in the microdistribution of P. s. safii. From 9 a. m. until 6 p. m. temperature in the sun is above PBT (preferred-body-temperature) in all zones. Shade temperature is different from one zone to another. In the most rocky zone without much vegetation, shade is provided by crevices. Shade temperature is under PBT. Food is mainly available outside crevices, in vegetation of Statice sinuatum. Food-size is small, so excursion-time will be long. Lizards are able to collect sufficient food if Statice-plants are close to crevices. The zone with vegetation of Erica arborea, on top of the island, is shaded all day. Shade temperature is under PBT. Only clearings are inhabited by lizards. All other zones have bushes and open areas. During the hot hours bushes provide shade, with shade temperature close to PBT. Food is mainly available in these bushes.
Ouboter, P.E. (1990) -
Overleg Duinhagedis (1999) -
In the Netherlands the Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis Linaeus, 1758) is also called “Dune Lizard”. It is a species ofthe coastal dunes, although it also appears in inland areas. Its biotope is characterised by geomorphological gradients and small-scale transitions between different types of vegetation. The biodiversity of this dune habitat is relatively high, therefore the Dune Lizard biotope is also ofimportance for other characteristic species. Management and planning in dune areas are important for Dune Lizard conservation. The purpose of this publication is to help the managers of dune areas in making their decisions. It describes the consequences of measures for the Dune Lizard, its biotope and organisms that inhabits this biotope. This publication describes the distribution of the Dune Lizard in the Coastal Dunes, its biotope in these areas and the influence of habitat management. For each of the described dune areas the future of the lizard is outlined based on the present management and existing plans. Important is to allow an increasing influence of natural processes and to prevent the effects of eutrophication in these naturally poor areas. Concrete measures like sod cutting and grazing can have negative effects when carried out in the Dune Lizard biotope. This publication presents guidelines for checking whether planned measures are located in or outside Dune Lizard biotope. The effects of dune management on the Dune Lizard population are monitored. The first results, after a successive monitoring period of six years, indicate that the Dune Lizard population in the coastal dunes does not decline. There are signs of an increasing population in several areas, possibly as a result of some successive warm summers. Barriers intersect the coastal dunes for Dune Lizards, making the dune population fragmented. Barriers are urban and agricultural areas, canals, roads and large areas with dense forest. This publication presents mitigating measures and indicates where ecological corridors are desired.
Owens, J.B. & Wilkinson, J.W. & Wüster, W. & Barlow, A. & Papadopulos, A. (2022) -
Oyen, W.G. van (1955) -
Özcan, S. (2012) -
Mount Madran is located within Aydın Province and contains lots of types of ecosystems. With this study, amphibian and reptile species of Madran was tried to determine. Specimens which were collected on September 2011 and April-May 2012 were investigated in terms of some morphological characteristics like number of scales and plates, color and pattern characteristics, and body measurements and ratio. Information about ecological and biological characteristics of determined species from study area were also given. In this study, totally 23 species with 3 amphibian and 20 reptiles were determined and were expected to contribute Turkish Herpetofauna.
Özcan, S. & Üzüm, N. (2014) -
This study investigates amphibian and reptile species of Madran Mountain. Specimens were collected in September 2011 and April and May 2012. A total of 23 species (3 amphibians and 20 reptiles) were determined. ese species are thought to contribute to our knowledge of the Turkish herpetofauna. In addition, a chorotype classi cation of the species determined on Madran Mountain is given.
Özdemir, A. & Baran, I. (2002) -
In this study, the amphibians and reptilians of Murat Mountain, where only mountain frogs have been investigated so far, are introduced. A total of 99 specimens from 15 different species were collected. Four of the species belong to anurans, one belongs to tortoises, six belong to lizards and four belong to the snakes group.
Ozelmas, U. & Akay, M.T. (1995) -
Özeti, N. & Cevik, I.E. & Arikan, H. (1986) -
Özeti, N. & Cevik, I.E. & Arikan, H. (1987) -
Özgül, C.N. & Güö, C. (2024) -
Bozcaada (Tenedos) Island, Türkiye, is a naturalistic biotope very important in terms of biological diversity as it has an isolated ecosystem. A total of 14 amphibian and reptile species were identified in previous studies in Bozcaada. In this study, two amphibians (Lissotriton schmidtleri, Bufotes sitibundus) and 10 reptiles (Mauremys rivulata, Testudo graeca, Hemidactylus turcicus, Mediodactylus kotschyi, Ophisops elegans, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Dolichophis caspius, Malpolon insignitus, Natrix natrix, Xerotyphlops vermicularis) species were observed. Distribution maps of amphibian and reptile species in Bozcaada were created using ArcGIS 10.8 package program according to seven different habitat types (agricultural habitat, shrubby area, settlements area, stony-hilly area, wetland habitat, dune habitat, woodland habitat). Consequently, with previous studies and current field surveys, distribution maps of amphibian and reptile species in Bozcaada according to environmental variables such as habitat, density, temperature, and elevation were created for the first time and the distribution of herpetofauna were compared between ten years ago and present. According to the data, it was determined that the distribution of amphibian and reptile species was limited in certain areas and the species preferred to live especially in the high elevation areas of the island. The dryness of seasonal puddles due to higher temperatures and climate change in Bozcaada, poses a threat especially to aquatic amphibians and reptile species on the island.
Özgül, C.N. & Kurtul, D. & Gül, C. & Tosunoglu, M. (2022) -
Amphibian and reptile species, which are ectothermic animals, spend the winter months underground depending on the seasonal change in temperate regions. The availability of nutrients is also an important reason for the hibernation of these animal species. Ectothermic animals need higher air temperature and body temperature after hibernation to be able to perform their vital activities such as reproduction, feeding, escaping from predators. With the global climate change that is taking place, unusual winter activities can be observed in amphibian and reptile species. In addition, global warming has a significant impact on amphibians and reptiles, which leads to the fact that the species leaves hibernation earlier. As part of the research, field works were carried out in Bozcaada, Çanakkale on 19 and 20 February 2022. During the field studies, sampling was carried out for the detection of amphibian and reptile species, air temperature, coordinates of the observed individuals, habitat characteristics in which they lived, and sex characteristics were recorded. The captured specimens were subsequently released. In this study, Lissotriton schmidtleri, Mauremys rivulata, Testudo graeca, Hemidactylus turcicus, Mediodactylus kotschyi, Ophisops elegans and Ablepharus kitaibelii species in February and data on unusual winter activities were reported. Among the species, winter activity was found for the first time in relation to Ablepharus kitaibelii. Determining the unusual winter activity of ectothermal animals will contribute to the literature on the biology of species and the effects of climate change.
Özkan, H. & Bülbül, U. (2021) -
A winter activity of the Danford’s lizard, Anatololacerta danfordi(Günther, 1876) has been observed during two winter seasons in Sütçüler and Aksu districts of Ispartaprovince of Turkey. There is no information in the literature about the active season of this species. Our data showed that this lizard species may be active in winter. Activations of the adult individuals of the species mainly consisted of sunbathing on the rocks and preying
Pablo, F. de (2005) -
Reptiles Sobre este grupo existe una enorme diferencia en el grado de conocimiento entre las especies. Mientras que existe mucha información sobre los lacértidos, principalmente sobre la lagartija balear (Podarcis lilfordi), centrándose en distribución, situación actual, reproducción, ecología trófica, genética, ..... e incluso se ha descubierto recientemente una nueva población de una subespecie ya conocida (Illot d`en Mel), Podarcis lilfordi balearica, hay otros grupos sobre los que se tiene un escaso conocimiento.
Pacheco, C.S. do Carmo Pereira (2008) -
Pacuta, A. & Zagar, A. & Kocikova, B. & Majlathova, V. & Mihalca, A.D. & Majlath, I. (2018) -
Locomotor performance provides one of the key pieces of information regarding whole-organism function. Experiments encompassing behavioral data commonly endeavor to measure parameters such as burst speed, latency time, distance traveled, and other aspects of locomotion. Behavioral experiments can uncover an immense range of information, from the individual, interspecific, and intraspecific levels up to correlations with ecological factors and parameters from the ecosystem. Here, we explored the locomotor behavior of two lizard species, Lacerta viridis and Lacerta agilis, in an open field test (OFT). The main aim was to reveal changes in locomotion over time. Although we observed no time-related variation in L. agilis, we discovered significant changes in locomotor behavior over the course of the experiment in Lacerta viridis. Measured behavioral traits (resting time, total distance traveled, mean speed) showed significant changes across time in L. viridis, thus indicating the importance of time as a factor when conducting behavioral experiments. Moreover, we observed that in 10-min experimental session, the individuals have undergone different stages from freezing behavior, exploration, to habituation.
Padial, J.M. (2006) -
This is the first comprehensive review of the reptiles of Mauritania. It includes distributional information and comments. Mauritania harbors 86 species of reptiles belonging to 21 families. Among these families, Colubridae and Lacertidae are the most diverse, with 14 and 13 species respectively. Other families, such as Agamidae, Gekkonidae, Scincidae or Viperidae are also well represented. Among the 80 continental species, 47.5% are Saharan, 33.8% Afrotropical, 16.2% Sahelian and 2.5% Mediterranean. The marine turtles form another important group, with six species. Eight species are excluded from the country list because of old identification errors, there is not enough evidence of their presence or due to changes in political borders. Among the species expected to occur in Mauritania, at least nine may occur in Saharan environments, 13 in the Sahel savannah and two may have been introduced.
Padilla, D.P. & Nogales, M. (2009) -
Secondary seed dispersal is a multistep system that includes 2 or more dispersal processes that can increase the distance from whichseeds arrive. This phenomenon is relatively common in some habitats of subtropical oceanic islands due to the frequent frugivore–predator interactions found in them. In this study, we describe how the Eurasian Kestrel is an effective disperser of plants in thesecondary seed dispersal process, through interaction with frugivorous lizards. Experiments using captive wild kestrels, along withfield data, showed that predation of kestrels on lizards leads to a secondary seed dispersal with 2 possible outcomes: 1) most seeds(89%) are not consumed by kestrels because they reject the lizards’ digestive tracts and so receive only the gut treatment of lizardsand 2) a small fraction of seeds (11%) appeared inside the kestrel pellets as a result of indirect ingestion by this raptor, thusundergoing double gut treatment. So, 2 different seed dispersal distances may result from this interaction: 1) when the kestrelscapture the lizard and transport it to a perch where the seed-containing guts are discarded and 2) when they indirectly ingest a fewseeds from lizards, consequently increasing the dispersal distance. Seeds from the Macaronesian plant speciesRubia fruticosaweretested, finding that those passed through kestrels had a lower germinability than those that remained inside the rejected lizards’digestive tracts, which had similar germination rates to those from control plants (uningested seeds). The kestrel can be consid-ered an important and effective long-distance seed disperser due to the high abundance of frugivorous lizards in their diet, theirstereotyped consumption behavior, and the effectiveness of their seed dispersal.
Padilla, D.P. & Nogales, M. & Marrero, P. (2007) -
Size-related selection of insular lizards by two sympatric predatory bird species (Southern Grey Shrike and Eurasian Kestrel) was studied in an arid insular environment. The endemic lizard genus Gallotia was a key resource in the diet of both predators, constituting more than 50% of the total biomass. Shrikes captured smaller lizards than kestrels during all seasons (mean snout - vent length (SVL): 7.4 ± 1.9 vs. 9.4 ± 2.1 cm respectively), presenting a sequential use of lizard sizes and avoiding potential competition. On the other hand, shrikes and kestrels showed the same seasonal variation pattern, capturing the largest lizards during their breeding periods (spring). Considering lizard availability, shrikes displayed less selective predation than kestrels in all seasons. Shrikes positively selected the medium lizard size (SVL: 5-10 cm) during the nestling period, but negatively selected the small lizard size (SVL: < 5 cm) in autumn and winter, probably due to an explosion of juvenile lizards. Lastly, kestrels appeared to be more selective, negatively choosing the small lizard size but positively selecting the largest ones all the year round (SVL: > 10 cm).
Padoa-Schioppa, E. & Polo, M. (2015) -
Padoa, E. (1933) -
Paepke, H.-J. (1970) -
Paeßler, W. (1927) -
Pafilis, P. (2003) -
Pafilis, P. (2011) -
Skyros island is well known for the famous pony, a typical case of dwarfism. At the same Archipelago though, there is an impressive case of gigantism, the endemic lizard of Skyros (Podarcis gaigeae), present only in the islet Mesa Diavates. This population is characterised by high density and cannibalism while a numerous seagull colony nests in the islet. According to the “island rule”, all these features favour gigantism. This study tried to clarify the underlying factors of gigantism and its implications to the overall biology of lizards. It failed to detect another incident of gigantism after sampling all islets of the Archipelago. This finding certifies the uniqueness of the Diavates population, though all insular lizards had larger body size than their Skyros conspecifics while an intermediate case was found at Lakonissi. High food availability is the main factor diversifying Diavates from the rest of the islets, supported by breeding seagulls that provide nutrients. Thanks to seabird contribution to the energy flow and the particular substrate of the islet, vegetation is lush and has switched to more nitrophilous species, fueling an augmented primary productivity. Minimal predation pressure has increased lizard population densities, which experience stronger intraspecific competition, expressed even as cannibalism. Under these circumstances large body size turns to be an advantage for both juveniles (since they may survive from cannibalism) and male adults (that have access to an extra food resource through cannibalism but also possess higher social status, territoriality and reproductive success). The impact of gigantism on reproductive output was strong. Contrary to classical life-history strategies that predict for clutches of either many but smaller eggs or few but larger eggs, in this case females from Diavates lay many and larger eggs. No effect was found regarding thermoregulation. The occurrence of gigantism and unusual reproductive investment in these small island populations is probably best explained by the occurrence of two underlying factors: (i.) the existence of striking cannibalistic behaviours in the form of attacks to the tail and intense intraspecific predation on juveniles, and (ii.) substantial marine subsidies by resident seabird colonies
Pafilis, P. (2018) -
Pafilis, P. & Adamopoulou, C. & Valakos, E.D. (2001) -
Pafilis, P. & Anastasiou, I. & Sagonas, K. & Valakos, E.D, (2013) -
Grazing of goats on Mediterranean islets is a common practice. Its consequences on plant communities are well documented, although not on vertebrates. We aim to shed light on the effect of livestock farming on lizards by investigating five populations of the insular lizard, Podarcis gaigeae, differing in the duration and intensity of grazing. Data on grazing regime, invertebrate abundance, tick prevalence, infestation levels, gull nests and lizard densities were collected during a period of 6 consecutive years. Grazing had a negative impact on insect populations, thus decreasing food availability for lizards. Tick prevalence and infestation levels were higher in places of continuous grazing. Goat activity disturbed gulls, which avoid nesting, so depriving the islets of marine subsidies. As a consequence of all these factors, lizard densities were higher in ungrazed and lower in grazed biotopes. Grazing effects were more severe on islets communities than on the main island populations. Our data imply that management action should be taken to conserve the highly diverse islet populations.
Pafilis, P. & Foufopoulos, J. & Lymberakis, P.& Poulakakis, N. & Simou, C. & Valakos, E.D. (2004) -
Pafilis, P. & Foufopoulos, J. & Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Valakos, D. (2007) -
Temperature sensitivity of digestive processes has important ramifications for digestive performance in ectothermic vertebrates. We conducted a comparative analysis of temperature effects on digestive processes [gut passage times (GPTs) and apparent digestive efficiencies (ADEs)] in five lacertid lizards occurring in insular (Podarcis erhardii, P. gaigeae), and mainland (P. muralis, P. peloponnesiaca, Lacerta graeca) Mediterranean environments. GPTs were negatively correlated to temperature with mainland taxa having 10–20% longer GPTs than island taxa. In contrast to previous studies that estimate ADEs using bomb calorimetry, we compare ADEs by analyzing discrete efficiencies for lipids, sugars and proteins at three temperature regimes (20, 25, and 30°C); each of these categories produces different results. ADEs for lipids and sugars showed a monotonic increase with temperature whereas ADEs for proteins decreased with temperature. Island taxa had consistently higher ADEs than their mainland counterparts for lipids and for proteins but not for sugars. They are characterized by superior energy acquisition abilities despite significantly shorter GPTs. Their increased digestive performance relative to the mainland species appears to allow them to maximize energy acquisition in unproductive island environments where food availability is spatially and seasonally clustered.
Pafilis, P. & Foufopoulos, J. & Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2009) -
The ability of an animal to shed its tail is a widespread antipredator strategy among lizards. The degree of expression of this defense is expected to be shaped by prevailing environmental conditions including local predation pressure. We test these hypotheses by comparing several aspects of caudal autotomy in 15 Mediterranean lizard taxa existing across a swath of mainland and island localities that differ in the number and identity of predator species present. Autotomic ease varied substantially among the study populations, in a pattern that is best explained by the presence of vipers. Neither insularity nor the presence of other types of predators explain the observed autotomy rates. Final concentration of accumulated tail muscle lactate and duration of movement of a shed tail, two traits that were previously thought to relate to predation pressure, are in general not shaped by either predator diversity or insularity. Under conditions of relaxed predation selection, an uncoupling of different aspects of caudal autotomy exists, with some elements (ease of autotomy) declining faster than others (duration of movement, lactate concentration). We compared rates of shed tails in the field against rates of laboratory autotomies conducted under standardized conditions and found very high correlation values (r > 0.96). This suggests that field autotomy rates, rather than being a metric of predatory attacks, merely reflect the innate predisposition of a taxon to shed its tail.
Pafilis, P. & Foufopoulos, J. & Sagonas, K. & Runemark, A. & Svensson, E. & Valakos, E.D. (2011) -
Differences in ecological conditions can result in the evolution of dramatic inter-population shifts in whole suites of traits. We studied variation in reproductive output in three lizard populations of the Skyros Wall Lizard (Podarcis gaigeae, Lacertidae) endemic to the Skyros Archipelago (Greece), which live under similar climatic conditions but differ in predation pressure and food availability. Based on the “island syndrome” hypothesis, we predicted that females from island populations would produce larger, but fewer offspring. The study populations differ conspicuously in average body size, with males from the satellite Lakonissi and Diavates islets being respectively 20% and 39% larger than males from the main Skyros Island. Lizards from these predator-free islets produced eggs of larger size than the main Skyros population; however, they also produced significantly larger clutches than the Skyros population (2.31±0.83 and 2.73±1.0 vs. 1.97±0.58 eggs). All inter-population differences in clutch size, clutch volume, and egg size were explained by corresponding differences in average body size of the dams, revealing that across all populations, reproductive effort scaled similarly with maternal body size. There was no evidence of trade-offs between egg size and clutch size as generally encountered in many reptile taxa. The occurrence of this unusual pattern of reproductive investment among islet populations of giants is probably best explained by the occurrence of two underlying drivers: first, the substantial marine subsidies by resident seabird colonies and second, the existence of intense cannibalistic behaviors in the form of attacks to the tail and severe intraspecific predation on juveniles. This suggests that subsidies-driven gigantism in island endemics may free species from such trade-offs and allow a population to maximize reproductive output in multiple, normally conflicting dimensions.
Pafilis, P. & Foufopoulos, P. & Lymberakis, P. & Pérez-Mellado, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2008) -
Caudal autotomy, the self-induced shedding of the tail, is a very common defensive strategy in lizards, among various taxa. Especially in lacertids, it is considered as the main antipredatory mechanism and applied widely. Autotomy has been always related to predation regime and, though considerable scepticism, used as an index of predation pressure. Tail shedding frequency depends on the balance between benefits and disadvantages and whenever costs exceed advantages, the performance of the ability decreases. Shed tail thrashes vigorously in order to distract predator and increase hadling time, facilitating the lizard`s escape. Post-autotomy movement is fueled by glycogen which converts anaerobically into lactic acid. The duration of tail movement is a crucial factor for the survival of the lizard and depends on final lactate concentration. Though levels of predation pressure are implicated in tail shedding performance, the impact of predator`s identity and the composition of predator`s community through time (which may be altered due to extinctions or introductions) on autotomy features have been slightly studied. In this study, working with Mediterranean insular species, we tried to detect possible deviations from the typical mainland pattern. We analysed various traits of autotomy such as tail shedding performance, lactate production, glycogen consumption and duration of tail movement. Finally we attempted to clarify if the effect of certain predators on autotomy is more significant than other`s. According to our results, the essential factor determining autotomy rates was predation regime and not just the origin of the species (mainland or island). Moreover the presence of vipers appears to shape tail shedding performance. The limited period of exposure to efficient predators could be the underlying reason for the shortest duration of tail movement in western species whereas all eastern species had the same (higher) values. Main physiological pathways supporting anaerobic metabolism seem to be conservative in all examined species.
Pafilis, P. & Herrel, A. & Kapsalas, G. & Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Fabre, A.-C. & Foufopoulos, J. & Donihue, C.M. (2019) -
Both environmental temperatures and spatial heterogeneity can profoundly affect the biology of ectotherms. In lizards, thermoregulation may show high plasticity and may respond to environmental shifts. In the context of global climate change, lizards showing plastic thermoregulatory responses may be favored. In this study, we designed an experiment to evaluate the extent to which lizard thermoregulation responds to introduction to a new environment in a snapshot of time. In 2014, we captured individuals of the Aegean Wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii) from Naxos Island (429.8 km2) and released them onto two small, lizard-free islets, Galiatsos (0.0073 km2) and Kampana (0.004 km2) (Aegean Sea, Greece). In 2017, we returned to the islets and estimated the effectiveness (E), accuracy and precision of thermoregulation measuring operative, preferred (Tpref) and body temperatures. We hypothesized that the three habitats would differ in thermal quality and investigated the extent to which lizards from Naxos demonstrate plasticity when introduced to the novel, islet habitats. Thermal parameters did not differ between Galiatsos and Naxos and this was reflected in the similar E and Tpref. However, lizards from Kampana deviated in all focal traits from Naxos, resulting in higher E and a preference for higher Tpref. In sum, Naxos lizards shifted their thermoregulatory profile due to the idiosyncratic features of their new islet habitat. Our results advocate a high plasticity in lizard thermoregulation and suggest that there is room for effective responses to environmental changes, at least for Podarcis lizards in insular habitats.
Pafilis, P. & Lymberakis, P. & Sagonas, K. & Valakos, E.D. (2016) -
Environmental temperatures considerably affect the reptilian ability for thermoregulation and harsh climatic conditions may impose a highly effective body temperature regulation to lizards. Such de- manding conditions are more common to extreme mainland habitats (e.g. deserts or mountains). To the contrary, islands have more benign climate conditions thanks to the thermal buffering effect of the surrounding sea. However, this favorable effect may be eliminated in small size islets where the scarcity of thermal shelters and exposure to high winds create challenging conditions. Here we investigate the impact of a tough islet habitat on the thermoregulation of Podarcis levendis, a lacertid lizard endemic to two rocky islets in the north Cretan Sea, Greece. To evaluate the thermoregulatory effectiveness of P. levendis we measured operative and body temperatures in the field and the preferred body temperatures in the lab. Analyses of the thermal data revealed an accurate, precise, and effective thermoregulator, achieving very high thermoregulation values (E 1⁄4 0.91, de db 1⁄4 7.6). This high effectiveness comes to compensate living in an inhospitable habitat as the operative temperatures denote (de 1⁄47.79). Our findings, together with the limited published literature, suggested the lack of a general pattern for all insular lizards and indicated a possible deviation for islet habitats.
Pafilis, P. & Maragou, P. (2013) -
Pafilis, P. & Maragou, P. & Sagonas, K. & Valakos, E. (2017) -
Species occurring in sympatry have to effectively segregate their niche in order to co-exist. In the case of ectotherms in particular, the very important parameter of thermal biology has to be taken into account. Here we investigated the thermoregulatory effectiveness (E) of two endemic Greek lizards (Hellenolacerta graeca and Podarcis peloponnesiacus) that live syntopically on a rocky cliff in the Peloponnese. We presumed that the two species would select different microhabitats, to avoid interspecific competition, and follow a similar thermoregulation pattern as they experience the same conditions. We also expected that E values for both species would differ depending on the season. Overall, we found that the two species had similar E values for each season but differentiated partial thermoregulatory attributes. Though they both occurred in the same types of microhabitat, H. graeca selected higher sites (average 99 cm above ground) than P. peloponnesiacus (average 44 cm). Also, the latter achieved higher preferred temperatures during summer and winter. Finally, the effectiveness of thermoregulation for both species varied interseasonally and received its highest values during summer, in response to the lowest thermal quality that was observed then. Similar studies stress the importance of thermal shifts for ectotherm co-existence.
Pafilis, P. & Meiri, S. & Foufopoulos, J. & Valakos, E.. (2009) -
Resource availability, competition, and predation commonly drive body size evolution. We assess the impact of high food availability and the consequent increased intraspecific competition, as expressed by tail injuries and cannibalism, on body size in Skyros wall lizards (Podarcis gaigeae). Lizard populations on islets surrounding Skyros (Aegean Sea) all have fewer predators and competitors than on Skyros but differ in the numbers of nesting seabirds. We predicted the following: (1) the presence of breeding seabirds (providing nutrients) will increase lizard population densities; (2) dense lizard populations will experience stronger intraspecific competition; and (3) such aggression, will be associated with larger average body size. We found a positive correlation between seabird and lizard densities. Cannibalism and tail injuries were considerably higher in dense populations. Increases in cannibalism and tail loss were associated with large body sizes. Adult cannibalism on juveniles may select for rapid growth, fuelled by high food abundance, setting thus the stage for the evolution of gigantism.
Pafilis, P. & Meiri, S. & Sagonas, K. & Karakasi, D. & Kourelou, E. & Valakos, E.D. (2016) -
Effective digestion is decisive for survival. In nature, where most animals feed sporadically, high digestive performance guarantees they will gain the most out of their infrequent meals. Larger body size implies higher energy requirements and digestion should function properly to provide this extra energy. Comparing Skyros wall lizards (Podarcis gaigeae) from Skyros Island to large (“giant”) lizards from a nearby islet, we tested the hypothesis that digestion in large individuals is more efficient than in small individuals. We anticipated that giant lizards would have higher gut passage time (GPT), longer gastrointestinal (GI) tracts and higher apparent digestive efficiencies (ADE) for lipids, sugars and proteins. These predictions were only partially verified. Giant lizards indeed had longer (than expected based on body length) GI tract and longer GPTs but achieved higher ADE only for proteins, while ADEs for lipids and sugars did not differ from the normal-sized lizards. We postulated that the observed deviations from the typical digestive pattern are explained by cannibalism being more prominent on the islet. Giant lizards regularly consume tail fragments of their conspecifics and even entire juveniles. To break down their hard-to-digest vertebrate prey, they need to extend GPT and thus they have developed a longer GI tract. Also, to fuel tail regeneration they have to raise ADEproteins. It seems that larger size, through the evolution of longer GI tract, enables giant lizards to take advantage of tails lost in agonistic encounters as a valuable food source.
Pafilis, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Valakos, E. (2008) -
Caudal autotomy is an effective antipredator strategy widespread among lizards. The shed tail thrashes vigorously for long periods to distract the predator and facilitate the lizard`s escape. This movement is maintained by energy supplied by the anaerobic conversion of glycogen into lactate. It has been suggested that lactate accumulation serves as an index for the vigor of tail thrashing. We made three predictions: (1) tail loss frequency should be higher under heavier predation regime, (2) the duration of postautotomy tail movement should be extended in populations under heavy predation pressure as an adaptation to the higher risk and the increased need for defense, and (3) as result, lactate in these tail tissues should be concentrated at higher levels. To eliminate the impact of phylogeny and environmental factors on the interpretation of our result, we focused exclusively on one species, the Balearic lizard (Podarcis lilfordi). We studied three populations, Colom (Illa d`en Colom), Aire (Illa de l`Aire), and Sargantana (Illa Sargantana), under different predation pressure but sharing the same climatic conditions. We found no differences among the studied populations either in postautotomy duration of tail movement or in levels of final lactate accumulation while autotomy frequency was higher where predation pressure was more intense. Tail loss effectiveness is directly influenced by the level of predation, while secondary features of the trait appear to remain independent from the impact of environment.
Pafilis, P. & Sagonas, K. & Kapsalas, G. & Foufopoulos, J. & Valakos, E.D. (2016) -
Caudal autotomy is one of the most effective and widespread defensive mechanisms among lizards. When predators grasp the tail, lizards have the ability to shed this limb from the point of the attack and further. Numerous factors have been reported to affect tail shedding performance such as temperature, age, predation pressure, intraspecific competition etc. Interestingly, the impact of sex on tail loss remains greatly understudied. This is interesting as there are theoretical reasons for why autotomic performance should vary with sex. Here we analyzed tail autotomy performance in the lab for 12 species of lacertid lizards belonging to six genera (Algyroides, Anatololacerta, Hellenolacerta, Lacerta, Ophisops, Podarcis) and the field frequencies of broken or regenerated tails of a single species (Podarcis erhardii) from a diversity of various insular populations. Our aim was to investigate whether sex affects caudal autotomy, as well as the duration of post-autotomic tail movement. Tail loss performance in the lab was assessed through a standardized predation simulation experiment. When trials resulted in autotomy, we recorded the movement of the thrashing tail with a digital timekeeper until cessation of movement. In the case of P. erhardii frequencies, the condition of the tail (intact, broken or regenerated) was recorded for each individual captured in the field. We found no effect of sex on tail loss in any of the species, either in the lab or in the field. We also failed to detect any influence of sex on the duration of tail movement. Our findings indicate that tail autotomy is a rather conservative strategy that is used in the same way and extent by both sexes. However, we have to stress out that our lab experiments took place during the non-reproductive period. It would be interesting to repeat this experiment in gravid females, as pregnancy alters most aspects of reptilian biology.
Pafilis, P. & Sagonas, K. & Kapsalas, G. & Foufopoulos, J. & Valakos, E.D. (2017) -
Caudal autotomy is one of the most effective and widespread defensive mechanisms among lizards. When predators grasp the tail, lizards are able to shed it from the point of the attack and further. Numerous factors have been reported to affect tail-shedding performance such as temperature, age, predation pressure, intraspecific competition etc. Interestingly, the impact of sex on tail loss remains greatly understudied. Here, we analyzed tail autotomy performance, simulated in the lab, in 12 species of lacertid lizards belonging to five genera (Algyroides, Anatololacerta, Hellenolacerta, Ophisops, Podarcis). Our aim was to investigate whether sex affects caudal autotomy and/or the duration of post-autotomic tail movement. We failed to detect any effect of sex on tail loss in the species examined. Also, we did not find any sexual impact on the duration of tail movement after autotomy, with a single exception. Our findings suggest that autotomy serves as a defensive tactic equally in both sexes and is used in the same extent.
Pafilis, P. & Sagonas, K. & Kapsalas, G. & Maragou, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2016) -
The ability for effective, accurate and precise thermoregulation is of paramount importance for ectotherms so as to survive even in low thermal quality habitats. In order to thermoregulate lizards employ different strategies to take advantage of their habitat including retreat into thermal shelters, shuttling between sunny and shady sites, active choice of background etc. Sympatric species have to be very cautious in habitat use to minimize interspecific competition. The decisive factor is the fine- scale choices of the appropriate microhabitat. Here we evaluated the thermoregulation effectiveness of four lacertids from the central Peloponnese, Greece (Podarcis peloponnesiacus, P. muralis, P. tauricus and Hellenolacerta graeca), that have different phylogenetic background and ecological requirements but live in the very same habitat (in a narrow area of approximately 1.000 m2 at Feneos plateau, altitude 880 m). Mainland, and particularly mountain, lizards are quite effective thermoregulators. We expected that all four species would show high thermoregulatory effectiveness besides the differences that may have in partial thermal features (e.g. preferred temperatures). We assessed thermoregulation effectiveness (E) through three standard thermal parameters: body temperatures (Tb) that animals achieve in the field, operative temperatures (Te) that non-thermoregulating animals reach under natural conditions, and preferred temperatures (Tpref) that animals achieve under laboratory conditions. In line with our hypothesis, all species thermoregulated effectively, though some differences arose among them. Tpref were similar for all species but Tb and Te differed considerably due to the different microhabitats selected, probably to avoid competition. P. tauricus achieved the highest E value (0.88) followed by P. peloponnesiacus and H. graeca (0.76 and 0.72, respectively) while P. muralis received the lowest (0.67). Tbs fell well within the Tset for all species while diel variation was limited, suggesting high precision in thermoregulation. On the other hand, thermal quality of habitat was low (important difference between Tset and Te), highlighting the imperative need for effective thermoregulation.
Pafilis, P. & Sagonas, K. & Runemark, A. & Svensson, E. & Valakos, E.D. (2008) -
Gigantism is a well known phenomenon in various taxa and has been described from many insular populations. Intraspecific competition emerges as one of the most acceptable among the various explanations that has been proposed. Though intra-species competition is considered rather uncommon among lacertids, there is strong evidence from dense insular populations supporting the opposite theory. In this paper we report another case of gigantism in a system comprised excusively of islands. Skyros wall lizard (Podarcis gaigeae) is endemic to Skyros Archipelago (western Aegean Sea). In 2 cases gigantic populations were discovered in the tiny islets Diavates and Lakonissi, close to the west coast of the main island. Both islets host dense populations (800 and 500 ind /ha respectively). In this study we assess the reproductive characteristcs of these two populations and we compare them to a population from Skyros. Tail autotomy is related traditionaly to predation regime. However predation pressure in our study system varied from relaxed (Skyros) to minimum (Diavates and Lakonissi). Hence we believe that the high proportions of regenerated tails observed in the islet populations (45-65% in comparison to 30% in the case of Skyros) could be interpreted as sign of a strong intraspecific competition. This approach is further reinforced by the high canibalism in Diavates. In our study we combined field and laboratory observations with measurements from museum speciments. In all cases females produced two or three clutches and oviposition lasted from early March until middle summer. Clutch size was bigger in the case of the gigantic populations of Diavates (2.69 eggs) and Lakonissi (2.17) in comparison to Skyros population (1.94). Egg volume, and subsequently clutch volume, followed that grade according to which the bigger eggs were born in Diavates and the smaller in Skyros. SVL of juveniles replicated once more that same pattern: females from Diavates gave birth to young giants (33 cm) while hatchlings` size in Lakonissi was smaller (30.2 cm) but still higher than in Skyros (27.8 cm). Statistical analysis revealed that clutch size corrected for maternal SVL is correlated to egg volume only in the case of Diavates giants. According to our results bigger lizards produce more and larger hatchlings. Under this light gigantism could be a solution to eliminate the body morphology constrains on the reproductive output in lizards, offering the opportunity to increase both clutch size and egg volume and consequently offspring size. It is well established that large juveniles are better survivors, a pivotal advantage when grow up under difficult conditions, as in the case of the islets under study.
Pafilis, P. & Sagonas, K. & Valakos, E.D. (2011) -
The practice of free-range goat grazing in islets is common throughout Mediterranean Sea with well-documented consequences on plant communities. In the case of lizards grazing has been reported to alter vegetation providing less cover from avian predators, increasing thus predation risk. In this study we focused on the impact of grazing on populations of the Skyros Wall lizard (Podarcis gaigeae), an endemic lacertid of Skyros Archipelago (Aegean Sea, Greece). Our aim was to detect and assess possible direct and/or indirect efects on several features of lizards’ overall biology. Five biotopes (three islets and two localities from Skyros Island) that difer in the duration and intension of grazing were included in the project. For a time-window of six years we realized monthly samplings during spring and summer (reproductive period of P. gaigeae) and recorded invertebrate population densities, lizard ectoparasites prevalence, presence and density of sea gulls and lizard population densities. As expected, grazing had a strong negative inluence on plant communities. The restriction of vegetation impoverished considerably invertebrate populations, decreasing thus food availability for lizards, which feed mainly on insects. Furthermore it resulted in a serious degradation of the biotope quality since lizards in islets use plants as shelters or thermoregulation sites. Ectoparasite loads (ticks and mites) were higher in places where goats were present in large numbers for long periods. Goat activity disturbs sea gulls that normally nest on remote islands. Islets where grazing was continuous hosted few or even none breeding pair. Since sea gulls support in terms of energy many islets of Skyros Archipelago through marine subsidies, the devastation of their breeding colonies afected negatively small insular ecosystems. Finally, population densities of lizards were higher in biotopes with no grazing (Diavates islet and the dunal ecosystem of Palamari at Skyros Island) and much lower in places with intense grazing.
Pafilis, P. & Sampson, A. & Stamatiou, P. & Gourgou, E. & Gaiitanaki, K. & Valakos, E. (2001) -
Pafilis, P. & Simou, C. (2006) -
Pafilis, P. & Valakos, D. & Foufopoulos, J. (2005) -
Tail autotomy, the self‐induced tail separation from the body, is a common and effective antipredator mechanism in lizards. In this study, we examine the muscle energetics of tail shedding in six lacertid lizard species (Podarcis erhardii, Podarcis peloponnesiaca, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis gaigeae, Podarcis milensis, and Lacerta graeca) from the northeast Mediterranean region. Very long periods of postautotomy tail movement were demonstrated for all species ( min), and differences among species were not statistically significant. Postautotomy tail movement, powered by anaerobic muscle activity, resulted in a strong increase in lactate concentrations and a concomitant depletion of muscle glycogen of exhausted tails relative to resting tails. No significant differences were found in either lactate or glycogen concentrations among the species examined. Duration of movement was negatively correlated with final lactate concentrations. The lack of differentiation in postautotomy energetic physiology in this group of species that have evolved under very different predation environments indicates that postautotomy muscle metabolism involves an overall conservative suite of characters.
Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2004) -
ABSTRACT: The effect of temperature on apparent digestive efficiency (ADE) and gut passage time (GPT) was investigated in two endemic lizard species (Lacerta graeca and Podarcis peloponnesiaca) of the Peloponnese (Greece) in a typical Mediterranean ecosystem. The two taxa have the same thermal preferenda but different thermoregulatory strategies. All animals were force- fed exclusively on mealworms (to eliminate the influence of the diet). The experiment was repeated at three different temperatures (20°C, 25°C and 30°C) in order to detect the influence of temperature. ADE was calculated separately for different nutrients of the food (lipids, sugars and proteins) using classical biochemical methods. Our results demonstrate that in both species GPT changes inversely with increasing temperature. ADE for proteins followed the same pattern. In contrast, ADE for lipids and sugars increased with temperature, but in a distinct way for each species. The performance of the digestion is lower in the case of L.graeca in comparison to P.peloponnesiaca.
Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2008) -
Tail loss is an effective antipredator strategy in many lizards. After loss the tail continues to thrash vigorously and may distract predators away from the escaping lizard. However, autotomy imposes energetic and survival costs (loss of lipid reserves, reduction of reproductive output, impairment of locomotor performance). Autotomy may have been lost when costs exceed benefits, while a substantial reduction or full loss may occur during ontogeny. The Balkan green lizard, Lacerta trilineata is a skilful sprinter despite its robust structure. Predation was simulated in a total of 83 individuals (48 juveniles and 35 adults). All juveniles shed their tail readily while none of the adults autotomized their tails. Post-autotomy duration of movement and levels of involving metabolites in shed tails were measured. No differences were found on comparison to other Greek lacertids. These findings suggest that autotomic ability is lost ontogenetically in L. trilineata while post-autotomy energetics seems to be a conservative character.
Pahor, P. (2002) -
Palacios-Garcia, S. & Cruzado-Caballero, P. & Casillas, R. & Castillo Ruiz, C. (2021) -
The genus Gallotia is an endemic lizard clade from the volcanic archipelago of the Canary Islands (Spain). This clade has five extant and extinct giant species distributed over just five islands in the archipelago: El Hierro, La Gomera, La Palma, Tenerife and Gran Canaria. On the island of El Hierro, remains of several giant species of Gallotia have been found. In this paper, we present a revision and description of the bones from El Hierro with similar osteological characteristics to the giant species from Tenerife, Gallotia goliath. The fossil remains of 24 individuals have been found in volcanic tubes of a Chibanian/upper Pleistocene-Holocene age (Quaternary). These remains confirm the presence of the species Gallotia goliath on the island of El Hierro and provide the first evidence of the possible coexistence of two giant fossil species of Gallotia on the same island. The existence of individuals of Gallotia goliath would imply on the one hand dietary specialization each giant species. On the other hand, it would suggest the transfer of non-flying species between islands raising the possibility that the great landslides of the Quaternary may have played an important role in inter-island migrations.
Palacios, F. & Ayarzaguena, J. & Escudero, I. & Escudero, J. (1974) -
In this paper the authors study Valverde´s lizard, Algyroides marchi, Valverde 1958. The first part refers to the biometry, pholidosis and coloration of a population of Riopar (Sierra de Alcaraz), province of Albacete, obtaining the following results: Biometry. – The old males weigh more and have larger heads and limbs than the females. The old females are longer as measured from the end of the snout to the vent. In both sexes the length of the tail is similar. Pholidosis. – The pholidosis is pratically the same in both sexes. The only significant differences is in the number of transverse series of ventral plates, 25,3 in the males and 27,9 in the females. Coloration. – The males generally present greater pigmentation than the females. There is an elevated proportion of females that maintain the juvenile coloration. In a later chapter a systematic revision of the species is made. Three known Iberian population are compared: Sierra de Cazorla, Riopar and Bogarra. No specimen from Riopar or Bogarra (Sierra de Alcaraz) presented the characteristics of niethammeri, subspecies described by Buchholz (1964). For that reason niethammeri is not considered valid and is asimilated to marchi. Some data on the biology of reproduction have also been included. The egg-laying takes place during the first two weeks of July and there are 1.4 eggs. The measurements of two eggs which had been completed formed varies greatly from spring to summer. During the copulation period, in April, the testicles are 3-7 times larger than in the summer. The last chapter studies the ecology of this species.It lives between 1.000 and 1.550 m above sea level, in the most humid mountain zones. Its ecological niche corresponds to the vegetal associations: Pino-Juniperion sabinae, Quercion pubescentis and Erinacetalia. The optimum is the Quercion pubescentis enclaved in very humid ravines. Lacerta hispanica ecologically replaces Algyroides marchi in the dry zones subject to strong solar exposure.
Palacios, F. & Castroviejo, J. (1975) -
Palacios, F. & Elvira, B. (1979) -
Palacios, F. & Salvador, A. (1974) -
Palacios, M.J. & Pérez, J. & Sánchez, Á. & Munoz, P. (2010) -
Palanca, Antonio & Rey, Jorge & Riobó, Antonio & Vences, Miguel (1997) -
Palaus, J. (1974) -
Palerm, J.C. (1997) -
The 5x5 km2 biogeogralic distribution 01 the herpethological biota from Eivissa island is listed and represented on a map. Also, some comments about the bibliography 01 the turtles 01 the Pityusic islands are given, together with a report about the linding 01 an individual Testudo graeca near to Corona. The data were recorded between 1992 and 1995, but some inlormation from 1996 has been added.
Pallary, P. (1928) -
Pallas, P. (1831) -
Pallas, P.S. (1771) -
Pallas, P.S. (1773) -
Pallas, P.S. (1793) -
Pallas, P.S. (1795) -
Паллас, П.С. (1795) -
Pallas, P.S. (1814) -
Palmer, K. (2005) -
Palmer, M. & Pons, G.X. & Cambefort, I. & Alcover, J.A. (1999) -
Aim We describe current interisland similarities of endemic faunas, and elucidate the significance of historical factors and environmental ones in determining the pattern found. Location The six major islands of the Balearics (Western Mediterranean). Method An extensive review of all the endemic fauna ranging from platyhelminthes to mammals is made. From 568 presumed endemic species and subspecies, 230 full species with neither taxonomic nor distributional uncertainty are chosen. Inter-island similarities are determined using such a presence-absence matrix. Finally, relationships between the matrix of faunistic similarity and a number of matrices measuring environmental and historical factors are elucidated. Results Endemic fauna similarities depend clearly on historical factors. Dependence on environmental factors is unclear. Moreover, endemic fauna reveals two clear-cut clusters of islands within the Balearics: the Gymnesic Islands, in the NE, and the Pityusic Islands in the SW. Historical factors cluster the Balearic Islands in the same way. Contrasting, environmental variables show smoothed, no significant differences among the Gymnesics and the Pityusics. Main conclusions Pre-human flora (palynology) and fauna (bird and mammal fossil record) suggest that environmental differences among the Gymnesics and the Pityusics have now been reduced in comparison to the environmental differences at the Pleistocene and Holocene boundary. This environmental homogenization is likely related with human invasion. Historical effects of prehuman differences between Gymnesic and Pityusic Islands are still recognizable on endemic fauna. In contrast, there is no historical effects on interisland similarities using currently breeding birds (as an example of organisms well-dispersed and related to vegetation type). We explain the pattern of interisland similarities of endemic fauna as the result of the independent histories among the two islands groups. Contrasting, successive colonizations and extinctions would determine interisland similarities of breeding birds.
Pambov, M. (1985) -
Pamrokova, S. (2013) -
We studied an enclosed population of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) in National Monument Horní Kamenárka, Štramberk, using the method of catching individual lizards with a fishing rod. The method of photographic identification was applied on hereby caught examples. We created a photo database of 186 lizards; each one has its unique identification code. Later we caught the lizards again and based on the identification code, we compared the first to fifth row of vertical scales and evaluated the frequency of changes of pholidosis pileus and the scale of these changes. The frequency of changes of pholidosis pileus was confirmed, but the study showed, that these changes had no effect on the identification of individual lizards during the five-year-long observation period. Results show, that the changes were cause by injuries of males, who have greater tendency to hurt themselves during patrolling, defense of territory or fights. We did not observe any changes that could be classified as autonomic disintegration. Research confirmed that thoratic scales do not succumb to any changes and are therefor a reliable feature for identification. The method of photographic identification may be assessed as reliable.
Pan, Z.C. & Ji, X. (2001) -
We incubated eggs of Takydromus wolteri at four costant temperature to assess influence of incubation temperature on size, morphology, and locomotor performance of hatchlings. All viable eggs incubated in mass over the course of incubation due to absorption of water from surroundings, the mass gain was dependent on initial egg mass and incubation temperature. The duration of incubation at 24, 27, 30, and 33℃ averaged 41.9, 30.6, 25.8, and 22.6d, respectively. Incubation temperature significantly affected hatching success and body wet mass, carcass dry mass, and residual yolk dry mass of hatchlings, but it did not affect sex ratio, total dry mass, snout-vent length, and tail length of hatchlings. Compared to those from 33℃, hatchlings from 24℃ and 27℃ were greater in wet body mass and carcass dry mass, with a smaller quantity of yolk remaining unutilized at hatching. Incubation temperature affected some norphological traits of hatchlings, with hatchlings from 24℃ and 27℃ having larger size-free head length and width than did those from 33℃, and hatchlings from 24℃ generally had smaller size-free tympanum diameter than did those from higher temperatures.
Paniagua, C.D. & Rivas, R. (1987) -
Panigel, M. (1951) -
Panigel, M. (1953) -
Panigel, M. (1956) -
Panigel, M. (1983) -
Pannach, D. (1994) -
Vom Verfasser wird eine erste Darstellung des Vorkommens von Amphibien und Reptilien aus diesem im Nordosten Sachsens liegenden Landkreis (ehem. Bezirk Cottbus) gegeben. Trotz der aufgrund fehlender zielgerichteter Feldarbeit in der Vergangenheit, noch lückenhaften Kenntnisse werden Angaben – ergänzt durch Verbreitungskarten – zu folgenden Arten gemacht: Triturus cristatus, T. vulgaris, T. alpestris (nördlichstes Vorkommen in Sachsen), Bombina bombina (z.T. noch stablie Vorkommen), Pelobates fuscus, Bufo bufo, B. viridis, B. calamita (mit den individuenreichsten Vorkommen dieser Art in Sachsen), Hyla arborea, Rana kl. esculenta, R. temporaria, R. arvalis, Emys orbicularis (möglicherweise bereits ausgestorben), Anguis fragilis, Lacerta agilis, L. vivipara, Natrix natrix, Coronella austriaca und Vipera berus.
Pannach, D. (1996) -
Es wird kurz von einer juvenilen Zauneidechse berichtet, die sich in ein am Boden aufgespannten Spinnennetz (vermutlich das einer Trichterspinne) verstrickt hatte, aus dem sich diese nicht selbständig befreien konnte. Das Tier wurde aus dem zäh haftenden Gespinst befreit. Ein „Tod im Spinnenetz“ bleibt damit zwar spekulativ, aber durchaus möglich. Eine Einschätzung der Bedeutung dieses potentiellen Mortalitätsfaktors ist nicht möglich, da hierzu augenscheinlich keine weiteren Beobachtungen publiziert sind.
Pannach, D. (2001) -
Panner, T. (2000) -
Short description of Lacerta cf. rudis and its habitat at Bolkar Dağları in the Middle Taurus Mts. (Turkey). Report on management and breeding of L. cf. rudis from the neighbouring Ala Dağları. Striking is the extremely long duration of the copula - max. 2 hours and 4 minutes. The clutch consists of up to three eggs. From one egg 1 got though deformed, but viable twins.
Panner, T. (2001) -
Panner, T. (2003) -
Panner, T. (2014) -
After a brief description of Georgia’s landscape the author reports on the lizards of the family Lacertidae that were found during a herpetological trip in May 2012. In addition, a list of the recorded herpetological taxa is presented.
Panner, T. (2023) -
The successful keeping and breeding of the Zagros Mountains Lacerta (Iranolacerta zagrosica) is reported. It is a strong rock lizard with a total length of approx. 18 cm, which is characterized by a flattened body and long limbs. The animals are kept in terrariums measuring 35 x 5o x 6o cm (length x width x height), the rear wall of which was designed as a rock wall. Steppe crickets serve as the main food, zophobas, mealworms and wax maggots are also given, which are supplemented with vitamins and minerals before feeding. In addition, the drinking water is always enriched with vitamin D3 and different multivitamin preparations. In this way, the lizards can be kept successfully without UV lighting. Due to its origin, Iranolacerta zagrosica is hibernated in tlie refrigerator for four months, from November to February.The females lay two clutches per year with up to 5 eggs, but mostly 3 to 4 eggs. At an incubation temperature of 26°C, the young hatch after about two months. The rearing of the young animals does not cause any problems.
Panner, T. & Zönnchen, F. & Auer, M. (2020) -
The authors report on a herpetological excursion from April 22 to May 7 to northwestern Iran. The route led from Tehran via Esfahan, Chelgerd, Kuhdasht, Kermanshah, Marivan, Täbriz, Zanjan and Manjil back to Tehran. The first part of the article deals with reptiles and amphibians found in the Zagros Mountains.
In the first part of our travel report, we presented our reptile and amphibian finds in the Zagros Mountains. In the second part we report on our observations in the mountains of Tabriz, Zanjan, Manjil and Teheran between May 3rd and 7th, 2016.
Pannese, E. (1963) -
Die morphologischen Veränderungen, die an den Spinalganglienzellen nach Durchtrennung ihres afferenten Axons auftreten, wurden bei Lacerta muralis untersucht. Die den Spinalganglien angehörenden Nerven wurden durch Schwanzamputation durchtrennt. Die licht- und elektronenmikroskopischen Befunde wurden systematisch verglichen. Bald nach Nervendurchtrennung kommt es an fast allen Spinalganglienzellen vorübergehend zu Schwellung des Zelleibes und — geringgradig — der Mitochondrien. Nach 7 Tagen sind zwei Nervenzellgruppen erkennbar, die eine sehr verschiedene Struktur aufweisen. Das endoplasmatische Reticulum der Neurone der ersten Gruppe, die ungefähr 12% der Nervenzellen des Ganglions ausmachen, hat ein normales Aussehen, die Neurofilamente sind zu dicken Bündeln zusammengeschlossen. Eine Deutung dieser Reaktionsweise war nicht möglich. Die Neurone der zweiten Gruppe — sie sind zahlreicher als die der Gruppe I — erscheinen unter dem Lichtmikroskop deutlich chromatolytisch. Elektronenmikroskopisch läßt sich ihr Zytoplasma folgendermaßen charakterisieren: Fehlen der parallel orientierten ergastoplasmatischen Strukturen und der Neurofilamente, Auftreten von geschlossenen Bläschen und von vorwiegend freien Ribosomen, Anhäufung von Mitochondrien um den Kern. Durch Aufschwellung und Fragmentierung der Tubuli und der Zisternen des endoplasmatischen Reticulums bilden sich die erwähnten geschlossenen Bläschen. Für eine Beteiligung des Kernkörperchens an diesem Vorgang spricht seine Volumenzunahme und seine Strukturveränderung. Während der Chromatolyse, die der Durchtrennung des Axons folgt, zeigt das Neuron eine vorübergehende Umdifferenzierung, so daß seine Struktur der des Neuroblasten weitgehend ähnelt. Nur wenige Neurone degenerieren infolge von Chromatolyse, die Mehrzahl gewinnt wiederum normale Struktur. Ihre Wiederherstellung beginnt mit der Fältelung der Kernmembran und Vergrößerung der Kernoberfläche und setzt sich mit dem Auftreten von ergastoplasmatischen Strukturen und zahlreichen Ribosomen vorerst in der Kerngegend, später auch im übrigen Teil des Zytoplasmas fort. Gleichzeitig treten die Neurofilamente wieder auf. Aufgrund der geschilderten Beobachtungen und bekannter biochemischer und histochemischer Angaben wird die Chromatolyse nicht als Ausdruck regressiver Erscheinungen aufgefaßt. Im wesentlichen handelt es sich um strukturelle Phänomene, die mit der Regeneration des Axons in Zusammenhang stehen. Wie bekannt, regenerieren bei der Eidechse nach der Schwanzamputation Haut, Muskeln und knorpeliges Skelett, während die Spinalganglien nicht regenerieren. Die letzten im Stumpf verbliebenen drei Spinalganglien-Paare innervieren den regenerierten Schwanzteil. Die Nervenzellen dieser Ganglien vermehren sich nicht, so daß sich durch die Schwanzregenerierung das Innervationsgebiet der einzelnen Zellen erheblich ausdehnt: in solchem Zustand hypertrophieren die Spinalganglienzellen. Während der Anfangsstadien der Hypertrophie beobachtet man im Zelleibe der Neurone ein stark entwickeltes Ergastoplasma und eine große, gut abgegrenzte Menge von sehr wahrscheinlich neugebildeten Neurofilamenten. Später findet eine allmähliche Vermischung der verschiedenen zytoplasmatischen Bestandteile statt. Dadurch erscheint der anfangs einheitliche, zytoplasmatische Sektor, welcher Neurofilamente enthält, in immer kleinere Zonen verteilt. Die Zahl der Mitochondrien in dem hypertrophierenden Zelleib steigt langsam und allmählich; aus der Volumenvergrößerung des Zelleibes resultiert jedoch, daß die Dichte der Mitochondrien verglichen mit der der Kontrollneurone stets geringer ist. Ist die Hypertrophie beendet, so erreichen die zytoplasmatischen Bestandteile wieder eine gleichmäßige Ausbildung und Verteilung, wie sie in den normalen Ganglienzellen vorhanden ist. Das hypertrophierte Neuron weist also am Schluß des Vorganges die gleiche Struktur wie die Normalneurone auf. In den hypertrophierenden Neuronen beobachtet man eine Vergrößerung der Kernkörperchen und eine Veränderung ihrer Struktur. Diese Veränderungen sind dieselben, die während der Axonregeneration vorkommen (vgl. vorhergehende Arbeit). Die Hypertrophie der Spinalganglienzellen bei Lacerta muralis besteht also hauptsächlich in der Vermehrung der Zellstrukturen (Neurofilamente, Zisternen des endoplasmatischen Reticulums, Mitochondrien). Durch Zunahme des peripheren Innervationsgebietes hypertrophieren vorwiegend die Spinalganglienzellen, die ein Volumen bis 4000 μ3 aufweisen, und zwar solche, die ein höheres Oberflächen/Volumen-Verhältnis besitzen und sich wahrscheinlich später differenzierten. Die Nervenzellen, welche ein Volumen von mehr als 4000 μ3 haben, hypertrophieren nicht. Im letzten Abschnitt dieser Arbeit wird die Ultrastruktur von Spinalganglienzellen verglichen, die sich in verschiedenen funktioneilen Zuständen befinden, nämlich Kontrollganglienzellen, chromatolytische Ganglienzellen, die das Axon regenerieren und keine spezifische funktioneile Tätigkeit ausüben, Ganglienzellen, die hypertrophieren und nicht spezifisch fähig sind. In den Ganglienzellen, die keine spezifische Funktion ausüben, liegen die Ribosomen überwiegend frei; das endoplasmatische Reticulum ist schwach entwickelt und äußerst einfach organisiert. Es wird von wenigen geschlossenen Bläschen gebildet. Dagegen ist das endoplasmatische Reticulum in den Ganglienzellen, welche eine spezifische funktionelle Tätigkeit ausüben, sehr entwickelt und sehr kompliziert gebaut; ergastoplasmatische Strukturen sind vorhanden. Es wird daher vermutet, daß in den freien Ribosomen des Zelleibes die zytoplasmatischen Proteine synthetisiert werden, in den ergastoplasmatischen Strukturen (Nissl-Schollen) dagegen hoch spezialisierte Proteine, die wahrscheinlich an einigen spezifischen Funktionen der Neuronen beteiligt sind.
Pannese, E. & Arcidiacono, G. & Rigamonti, L. & Procacci, P. & Ledda, M. (1982) -
Thoracic spinal ganglia and dorsal roots central to the latter from three adult lizards (Lacerta muralis) kept at 30°C for 90–95 days and from three other lizards kept at 3°C for the same length of time were examined under the electron microscope. The number, density, and distribution of microtubules were determined in cross sections of unmyelinated and myelinated axons of the dorsal roots. The relationships between the densities of microtubules and the cross-sectional areas of the axons were not found to be significantly different in the hot and cold lizards. Also the perikaryal microtubules, which however, were not quantitatively evaluated, showed no obvious differences under these conditions. The assumption that the microtubules studied in the present research are first disassembled in the cold and then reassembled before fixation has taken effect is probably incorrect because the specimens were fixed at the same temperature at which they had been previously kept, and also because neither C-shaped microtubules nor macrotubules were observed. The most likely explanation of the present results is that the microtubules here studied are cold stable.
Pannese, E. & Procacci, P. & Ledda, M. & Arcidiacono, G. & Frattola, D. & Rigamonti, L. (1986) -
The spatial relationship between microtubules and mitochondria was studied in myelinated axons of the ventral and dorsal spinal roots of the lizard Lacerta muralis by use of quantitative methods in single and serial sections. Microtubules mainly occurred in groups of 3 to 10. The mean density of microtubules was found to be significantly higher close to mitochondria than in the rest of the axoplasm. In single sections, 59–62% (according to the root region examined) of the microtubule groups were found to be ‘associated’ with mitochondria; this percentage rose to 74–76% in serial sections. The examination in serial sections of progressively longer segments of the same microtubule groups showed that the longer the segments of microtubule groups examined the higher was the percentage of microtubule groups ‘associated’ with mitochondria. The results obtained show that in the axons studied in the present research a non-accidental spatial association exists between microtubule groups and mitochondria. This evidence supports the suggestion that the microtubule groups play a role in the movement of mitochondria along the axon, even though it does not clarify the precise nature of this role.
Panuccio, M. (2003) -
Paolucci, M. (1989) -
This study shows that in the liver of the oviparous lizard, Podarcis s. sicula, the estrogen receptor (ER) level increases during the reproductive period (spring) when vitellogenesis occurs. This phenomenon interested both unfilled and filled ER present in the cytosolic and nuclear fractions. The increase in unfilled cytosolic and filled nuclear receptor was positively correlated to the plasma level of vitellogenin. The level of liver ER approximated that of mammalian liver ER and, therefore, it is higher than that reported for the liver of several nonmammalian species. At electrofocusing, liver ER distributes in two pH ranges (pH 6.5-7.5 and 8.0-8.8, respectively). The first form predominated in nuclei of reproductive females or of spayed estrogenized females and could represent the activated form of receptor. Ovariectomy was followed by a decrease in liver ER which can be induced in spayed females by estradiol administration. Pituitary growth hormone (GH) seemed to exert a synergic effect on estradiol liver estrogen receptor regulation. In lizards treated both with estradiol and GH, in fact, there was a significant increase in nuclear filled ER rather than an increase in the level of total nuclear ER.
Paolucci, M. & Fiore, M.M. di & Ciarcia, G. & Botte, V. (1992) -
In male Podarcis s. sicula plasma, a sex steroid binding protein [SSBP(s)] binds testosterone (T) and estradiol-17 beta (E2) with moderate affinity (Kd = 0.23 +/- 0.08 x 10(-8) for 3H-E2, and 0.24 +/- 0.07 x 10(-8) for 3H-T) and high capacity. The SSBP binding affinity is unchanged throughout the sexual cycle, although its capacity is higher in nonreproductive males (winter and postreproductive period). This change may be related to changes in plasma T and E2 levels, and is likely to be involved in mechanisms whereby free steroid is delivered to target organs. SSBP, under isoelectrofocusing, is distributed between pH 5.5-6.5 and pH 7.1-7.5. The concentration of these two forms varies during the annual cycle.
Paolucci, M. & Rocco, M. & Varricchio, E. (2001) -
Leptin is a 16 kDa peptide produced by adipocytes in response to increasing fat stores and signals to the brain to stop eating and increase energy expenditure. Recent studies point out that the role of leptin is much broader and includes the regulation of reproduction. The lizard, Podarcis sicula, is an oviparous species characterized, at this latitude, by a seasonal reproductive cycle. Since in Podarcis sicula the recovery of the gonadal function coincides with the recovery of metabolic activity, we have hypothesized that leptin might be involved in the regulation of the reproductive function in this species. We have identified an immunoreactive band in the plasma of the female of Podarcis sicula, which comigrated with recombinant mouse leptin and cross reacted with polyclonal antibodies against mouse leptin. A RIA method developed by Linco (St. Louis, MO) was utilized to measure leptin concentration in plasma, liver and fat bodies of Podarcis sicula throughout the reproductive cycle. The antibody used in this kit (Linco`s Multi-Species Leptin Radioimmunoassay kit) was produced in the guinea pig against human leptin but displays crossreactivity to leptin molecules of many species. The level of leptin in the plasma of Podarcis sicula was in the same range as that of mammals. Leptin levels in plasma, liver and fat bodies fluctuated during the reproductive cycle, in a way consistent with its possible role in reproduction.
Paoluccil, M. & Fiore, M.M. di (1992) -
Labelled testosterone- and oestradiol-binding molecules have been found in the cytosol and nuclei of lizard testes. DNA-cellulose affinity chromatography was used to separate putative sex-steroid-binding receptors (adhering molecules) and nonreceptor components (nonadhering molecules). A putative androgen receptor (Kd: 10(-10) mol l-1; 3-9 fmol g-1 tissue) was found mainly in the nuclei of testicular cells when actively undergoing spermatogenesis. This suggests that, as in higher vertebrates, testosterone is implicated in spermatogenetic step regulation (meiosis and spermiogenesis) in lizard testis. In the cytosol, testosterone-binding molecules (Kd: 10(-9) mol l-1; 384-784 fmol g-1 tissue) with several properties of androgen-binding proteins are present from autumn to spring. The behaviour of these molecules is consistent with the role assigned to androgen-binding proteins as androgen reservoir. A putative oestrogen receptor is present throughout the sexual cycle, except during the culmination phase (breeding). The putative oestrogen receptor may be involved in the regulation of the first spermatogenetic step (spermatogonia multiplication) and in the induction of post-reproductive refractoriness. This phase is present in temperate-zone lizards. These studies show that the evaluation of sex-steroid-binding molecules is useful in considering the relationships between sex hormones and spermatogenetic activity in the testes of lizards
Papaleo, L. & Russo, V.G. & Notomista, T. (2022) -
Papenfuß, R. (2011) -
Papenfuß, R. (2014) -
Papenfuß, R. (2015) -
Papenfuss, T.J. (1960) -
Papenfuss, T.J. (1969) -
Paray, B.A. & Al-Sadoon, M.K. (2017) -
Histology and electron microscopic studies of the dorsal skin of the Fringe-toed lizard, Acanthodactylus orientalis Angel, 1936, showed three types of dermal chromatophores: xanthophores, iridophores and melanophores. These pigment cells were observed in vertical combination, with an uppermost layer of xanthophores, an intermediate layer of iridophores and a basal layer of melanophores. The ultrastructure of the melanophore is characterized by oval nucleus and numerous pigment granules, the melanosomes of different stages that remain scattered in the cytoplasm. The chromatophores of this species contain significant information of anatomical similarity with lower as well as higher vertebrates. They can help to better understand the inter relationships between vertebrate pigment cells and their role in skin dysfunctions.
Pardeshi, M. & Kumar, V.V. & Das, S.K. (2009) -
Paredes, U. & Barrio, I.G. & Azkue, I.S. & While, G.M. & Uller, T. (2016) -
Developmental stress can have organizational effects on suites of physiological, morphological, and behavioral characteristics. In lizards, incubation temperature is perhaps the most significant environmental variable affecting embryonic development. Wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) recently introduced by humans from Italy to England experience stressfully cool incubation conditions, which we here show reduce growth and increase the incidence of scale malformations. Using a methylation-sensitive AFLP protocol optimized for vertebrates, we demonstrate that this low incubation temperature also causes hypomethylation of DNA in brain tissue. A consistent pattern across methylation-susceptible AFLP loci suggests that hypomethylation is a general response and not limited to certain CpG sites. The functional consequences of hypomethylation are unknown, but it could contribute to genome stability and regulation of gene expression. Further studies of the effects of incubation temperature on DNA methylation in ectotherm vertebrates may reveal mechanisms that explain why the embryonic thermal environment often has physiological and behavioral consequences for offspring.
Parent, G.H. (1974) -
Parent, G.H. (1978) -
Parent, G.H. (1979) -
Parent, G.H. (1981) -
ventaire exhaustif des espèces indigènes et naturalisées, présentes e n France et au Benelux : 85 taxons, relevant de 72 espèces, sont cités, mais deux autre s taxons, dont le statut reste à définir, sont mentionnés au n os 31 (Rana esculenta) et a u n° 53 (Podarcis muralis) et huit autres au n` 56 (Podarcis muralis tiliguerta) de l`inven- taire. On signale les zones à prospecter par priorité et les problèmes taxonomiques à résoudre d`urgence . Les aires sont définies par rapport aux provinces ou aux départements : des cartes d`aire provisoires, en France, sont données pour 33 taxons. En ce qui concerne la liste des taxons relatifs à la France, les modifications suivante s sont à noter : 1°) taxons admis : Triturus alpestris apuanus, Acanthodactylus erythrurus cf. erythru- rus, Lacerta agilis garzoni, Podarcis hispanica hispanica, Podarcis muralis merremia , Vipera latastei latastei, Vipera seoanei ; 2.) deux intergrades de Salamandra salamandra sont retenus : 30) taxons refusés : Rana iberica, Coronella austriaca fitzingeri, Natrix tessellata tessellata ; 4.) tombent en synonymie les deux taxons suivants : Podarcis muralis occidentalis (= P. m. muralis) et P. m. calbia (= P. m. oyensis). En outre, liste des espèces introduites, liste des espèces citées par erreur et list e des taxons à rechercher . Quelques données inédites concernent le nord de l`Espagne .
Parent, G.H. (1982) -
Pargana, J.M. & Paulo, O.S. & Crespo, E.G. (1996) -
Paris, P. (1912) -
Parisi, P. & Galliano, F. (1984) -
Park, H.-C. & Suk, H.-J. & Jeong, E.-J. & Park, D.-S. (2014) -
The Mongolian racerunner (Eremias argus) is a small lacertid lizard species, and its distribution range encompasses the Korean Peninsula, Mongolia, China and Russia. Eremias argus is widespread, but populations on the Korean Peninsula are small and declining, provoking concerns that genetic diversity is being lost. This species is currently listed under the Protection of Wild Fauna and Flora Act in South Korea. In this study, nine novel microsatellites for E. argus were developed with a biotin-enrichment method and used to understand its population genetic structure and delineate conservation units on the Korean Peninsula. Overall, low intrapopulation genetic diversity was observed (mean number of alleles per locus = 2.463; mean H E = 0.398) from 10 populations investigated (n = 110). Two populations (among five with n≥ 10) showed an excess of heterozygosity expected under HWE relative to that expected at mutation-drift equilibrium, indicating severe reduction in population sizes. With only a few exceptions, the overall genetic differentiation among populations was substantial with the high levels of pairwise-F ST (0.006-0.746) and -R ST (0.034-0.940) values. The results of Bayesian STRUCTURE analysis showed that E. argus populations on the Korean Peninsula were most likely partitioned into three genetic clusters. Taken all together, such low levels of gene flow and strong genetic structuring have critical implications for the conservation of this endangered species and its management.
Parker, H.W. (1926) -
Parker, H.W. (1932) -
Parker, H.W. (1935) -
Parker, H.W. (1936) -
Parker, H.W. (1942) -
Latastia taylori spec. nov. (fig. 4) Latastia boscai (part) Parker, 1932, Proc. Zool. Soc. London, p. 355 (specs, e-m). Holotype a male, number 1931.7.20.337, in the British Museum, from the Buran Valley, 2500 ft. (10°20`N x 49°E); collected by Capt. R. H. R. Taylor, 17.X.1929. Head flat, depressed, once and three quarters as long as broad, its depth a little less than the distance between the tip of the snout and the anterior corner of the eye, and its length contained 4.25 times in the length from snout to vent. Nostril pierced between four shields; upper nasals forming a suture half the length of the fronto-nasal which is a little broader than long and broader than the internarial space; prefrontals forming a median suture shorter than that between the nasals; frontal not grooved, a little longer than its distance from the rostral, once and two thirds as long as broad; interparietal not quite twice as long as broad, in contact with an occipital half its length; 4 supraoculars, the first divided into two, second and third large and subequal, fourth very small; a row of granules separating the supra- oculars from the 5 supraciliaries. Lower eyelid scaly, translucent. Rostral not entering the nostril ; two superposed post-nasals, the lower in contact with the first and second labials ; anterior loreal half as long as the second; five or six labials anterior to the subocular, which is much narrowed on the lip and separated by two scales from the pos- terior loreal ; lateral edge of the parietal bordered by 3 elongate, narrow scales, of which the anterior is much the longest; anterior margin of the ear bordered by 3 or 4 scales of which the uppermost is the largest. Four pairs of chin-shields, the first 3 in contact and the last the largest; 31 gular scales between the chin-shields and the collar which has about nine scales on its edge, the median very large and the laterals grading into the granules of the neck. Dorsal scales oval, or subhexagonal, flat and smooth, in 39 series across the middle of the body and in 105 series between the occipital and the base of the tail (vertically over the vent) ; twenty-two in a transverse series between the hind limbs. Ven- trals in six longitudinal series, with straight posterior borders, the two median series much narrower than the others; no group of small pec- torals; twenty-five transverse series of ventrals; one very large preanal bordering the vent, preceded by another, but much smaller, shield. A series of enlarged plates beneath the fore-arm; upper tibial scales small, imbricate, keeled; ten or eleven femoral pores on each side; sub- digital lamellae strongly bicarinate 26 beneath the fourth toe. Caudal scales in equal whorls, oblique and strongly keeled above, smooth be- neath. Tip of the fourth toe reaching to midway between the arm and the ear. Pale reddish brown above and on the tail, faintly marbled with grey anteriorly and on the head; flanks anteriorly and side of the neck with very irregular brown and greyish-white vertical marblings. Lower sur- faces uniform white. Length from snout to vent 43 mm. Fore-limb 13 mm. Hind-limb 26 mm. Tail (regenerated in part) 87 mm. The following specimens are paratypes of this species: 1931.7.20.339 9 2000 ft. 10°15`N x 49°E 13.1.1930 1931.7.20.338 9 20 ft. 11°14`N x 49°E 3.XII.1929 1931.7.20.340-342 3 & & 2000 ft. 9°40`N x 49°E [Ex. Field Mus.j 8.II.1930 19317.20.335-336 d 9 3100-3300 ft. 10°13`N x 48°46`E 8.1.1930 This series shows the following variations from the holotype: The head may be once and two thirds as long as broad, and its depth equal to the distance from the snout to the eye; supraciliaries 5 to 7; one or two scales between the posterior loreal and the subocular; 5 or 6 labials anterior to the subocular; dorsals in 36 to 41 series across the middle of the body; ventrals in 23 to 26 transverse series; gular scales 28 to 32; plates in the collar 5 to 7; femoral pores 9 to 12; subdigital lamellae beneath the fourth toes 24 to 27. The fourth toe extends to some point between the shoulder and the middle of the neck. The colour is usually olive, almost uniform, but with traces of lighter marblings anteriorly and on the sides of the neck and anterior part of the flanks, the latter having a tendency towards the formation of verti- cal bars. The subcaudal scales are smooth proximally, but keeled dis- tally and an unregenerated tail is a little more than twice as long as the distance from snout to vent. These specimens were originally believed to be all immature, but a female of 42 mm. from snout to vent is pregnant and the species ap- pears to be consistently smaller than boscai. It is closely allied to the latter but may be distinguished by its broader, natter dorsal scales, the absence of a frontal groove and different colour; it appears to be restricted to the north-eastern districts of Somaliland from the Sol Haud to the coast, an area close to that in which the strongly striped L. boscai burii also occurs (fig. 4).
Parker, W.K. (1879) -
Parlak, S. & Tok, C.V. (2013) -
In this study, age estimation by the skeletochronology method was done in Çanakkale (13 ♂♂, 10 ♀♀, 1 juv.) and Gökçeada (14 ♂♂, 11 ♀♀, 1 juv.) populations of Ophisops elegans. It was figured out that the median age of Çanakkale population is 3 (1-4) and Gökçeada population is 3 (1-6) in a total of 50 (27 ♂♂, 21 ♀♀, 2 juv.) samples which were analyzed transverse sections of femora. Among the samples, the maximum age was calculated as 6 for a male. There is not a statistically difference between populations in terms of head+body lengths, and it was figured out that the average head+body length in Çanakkale population is 45.90 mm (SD=4.06) and in Gökçeada population is 43.53 mm (4.11). The equation between age and length for all samples was calculated as head+body length= 36.78 + (2.77 x age) and as a result of linear regression analyses. It was determined that there is a weak correlation between age and length.
Bu çalışmada, Çanakkale (13 ♂♂, 10 ♀♀, 1 juv.) ve Gökçeada (14 ♂♂, 11 ♀♀, 1 juv.) Ophisops elegans populasyonlarında iskelet kronolojisi yöntemi ile yaş tayini yapılmıştır. Femur kemiklerinin enine kesiti incelenen toplam 50 (27 ♂♂, 21 ♀♀, 2 juv.) örnekte, Çanakkale populasyonunun median yaşı 3 (1-4), Gökçeada populasyonunun median yaşı 3 (1-6) olarak bulunmuştur. Örnekler arasında en büyük yaş Gökçeada populasyonundaki bir erkek bireyde 6 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Populasyonlar arasında B+G uzunlukları bakımından fark olmamakla birlikte ortalama B+G uzunluğu Çanakkale populasyonunda 45.90 mm (SD = 4.06) Gökçeada populasyonunda 43.53 mm (4.11) olarak bulunmuştur. Örneklerin tamamında yaş-boy arasındaki denklem B+G uzunluğu= 36.78 + (2.77 x yaş) olarak hesaplanmış, yapılan doğrusal regresyon analizi sonucunda yaş-boy arasında zayıf bir ilişki olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
Parlanti, C. & Lanza, B. & Poggesi, M. & Sbordoni, V. (1988) -
Parrain, N. (2010) -
Among the Lacertidae, the Catalan Lizard (Podarcis liolepis cebennensis) is rather scarce and unobtrusive. It is often goes unnoticed. The regional literature details the fact that this lizard occupies natural, sunny locations. Surveys carried out over recent years have shown, however, that it can be found in directly man-made sites such as walls. This species can be confused with the Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) and digital photography is an invaluable tool to help specialists in confirming records. The two species can be found in the same habitats, hence it is imperative to avoid misidentification in order to monitor changes in the population of these species.
Parrinha, D. & Marques, M.P. & Heinicke, M.P. & Khalid, F. & Parker, K.L. & Tolley, K.A. & Childers, J.L. & Conradie, W. & Bauer, A.M. & Ceríaco L.M.P. (2021) -
The genus Pedioplanis reaches its northernmost limit in western Angola, where it is represented by three species, Pedioplanis benguelensis, P. haackei and P. huntleyi. The taxonomic status of P. benguelensis remains problematic, mainly due to the vague original description and the loss of the original type material. Here we provide a revision of the Angolan representatives of the genus, with the description of a new species, Pedioplanis serodioi sp. nov., from the lowlands of southwestern Angola. Phylogenetic analyses using a combination of mitochondrial (16S and ND2) and nuclear (RAG-1) markers, as well as morphological data, support the recognition of the new species. For purposes of nomenclatural stability, we designate a neotype for P. benguelensis and provide motivation to correct the spelling of the specific epithet to “benguelensis”. The clarification of the status of P. benguelensis and the description of a new species contribute to a better understanding of the taxonomy and biogeography of the genus Pedioplanis, as well as the general biogeographic context of southwestern Angola, adding to the growing evidence in favor of the recognition of this region as a hotspot of lizard diversity and endemism. An updated key to the genus is also provided.
Parry, D.A.D. & Winter, D.J. (2021) -
On the basis of sequence homology with mammalian α-keratins, and on the criteria that the coiled-coil segments and central linker in the rod domain of these molecules must have conserved lengths if they are to assemble into viable intermediate filaments, a total of 28 Type I and Type II keratin intermediate filament chains (KIF) have been identified from the genome of the European common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis). Using the same criteria this number may be compared to 33 found here in the green anole lizard (Anole carolinensis) and 25 in the tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus). The Type I and Type II KIF genes in the wall lizard fall in clusters on chromosomes 13 and 2 respectively. Although some differences occur in the terminal domains in the KIF chains of the two lizards and tuatara, the similarities between key indicator residues – cysteine, glycine and proline – are significant. The terminal domains of the KIF chains in the wall lizard also contain sequence repeats commonly based on glycine and large apolar residues and would permit the fine tuning of physical properties when incorporated within the intermediate filaments. The H1 domain in the Type II chain is conserved across the lizards, tuatara and mammals, and has been related to its role in assembly at the 2-4 molecule level. A KIF-like chain (K80) with an extensive tail domain comprised of multiple tandem repeats has been identified as having a potential filament-crosslinking role.
Parshad, B. (1914) -
Parvizi, E. & Naderloo, R. & Keikhosravi, A. & Solhjouv-Fard, S. & Schubart, C.D. (2018) -
Aim Phylogeographic studies on a number of Western Palaearctic taxa imply that the southern Caspian Sea region served as a refugium during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Nevertheless, the LGM biogeography of the terrestrial and freshwater organisms in this region is poorly understood. By studying phylogeography of a species of freshwater crab, we unravel the location of probable local refugia and colonization patterns across this topographically complex landscape. Location Southern Caspian Sea region. Methods The freshwater crab Potamon ibericum. We inferred the demographic history of Potamon ibericum using 163 mtDNA Cox1 sequences from 16 localities. For a subset of specimens, we amplified mtDNA 16S and four nuclear markers (28S, Histone3, Enolase, NaK) to confirm the phylogeographic structure. We tested Pleistocene expansion–contraction dynamics, using species distribution modelling (SDM) and assessed morphological variability by geometric–morphometric methods. Results Mitochondrial markers revealed the existence of three parapatrically distributed lineages in the western, central and eastern parts of the region. The more conserved nuclear markers did not reflect this. The SDM revealed the fundamental niche expansion of P. ibericum along the southern Caspian Sea during the LGM, agreeing with results from the Cox1 data of demographic expansions. Despite strong morphological resemblance, geometric–morphometrics elucidated clinal carapace shape variation. Main Conclusions Considering the Caspian Sea level fluctuations during the late Pleistocene, we hypothesize a scenario of demographic contraction during interglacial/warmer conditions, due to the Caspian Sea transgression and latitudinal range shift within the narrow distribution of the species between the southern Caspian Sea and northern slopes of the Alborz Mountains. During the glacial periods, the sea regressed and moist and warm conditions, characterizing glacial refugia, became prevalent in the region and caused isolated populations to expand. Our study confirms the deep transverse phylogeographic break, previously identified for Darevskia lizards in the region, and adds support to the presence of several LGM refugia in the southern Caspian Sea region.
Paschtschenko, J.I. (1955) -
Passarge, H. (2019) -
Der Artikel beschreibt die griechische Insel Alonnisos als liebenswertes idyllischen Urlaubsziel für Naturfreunde abseits der großen Touristenströme. Eine Bildserie zeigt die ganze Variationsbreite der Färbung und Zeichnung von Podarcis erhardii ruthveni, und als „Bonbon“ wird noch ein Dolichophis caspius präsentiert. 80 % der beobachteten Eidechsen wiesen deutlich sichtbaren Milbenbefall auf. GUNTRAM DEICHSEL nimmt im Anhang Stellung.
This article describes Alonnisos as a lovely and idyllic holiday destination for people interested in nature away from the crowd. An extensive series of pictures shows the whole range of variations in the colouring and marking of Podarcis erhardii ruthveni, and as a highlight a Dolichophis caspius is presented. 80% of the lizards observed displayed clearly visible mite infestation. GUNTRAM DEICHSEL comments on this observation in the appendix.
This article describes Alonnisos as a lovely and idyllic holiday destination for people interested in nature away from the crowd. An extensive series of pictures shows the whole range of variations in the colouring and marking of Podarcis erhardii ruthveni, and as a highlight a Dolichophis caspius is presented. 80% of the lizards observed displayed clearly visible mite infestation. Guntram Deichsel comments on this observation in the appendix.
Passarge, H. & Deichsel, G. (2017) -
Pasteur, G. & Salvidio, S. (1985) -
Proteinloci von 36 Eidechsen der Art Gallotia galloti aus Teneriffa wurden untersucht. Der Gendiversitätsindex betrug bei einer Zufallsstichprobe von 24 Proteinloci 0.087. Unter insgesamt 36 untersuchten Loci wurde eine signifikante geographische Variation nur nei Transferrinen von Tieflandeidechsen festgestellt, während eine Stiuchprobe von Gallotia aus Gebirgsregionen oberhalb der Passatwolken ausschließlich Heterozygote auswies, scheinbar eine Anpassung an drastische circadiane Änderungen der Umweltbedingungen.
Pastorelli, C. & Laghi, P. (2008) -
Pastors, J. (2001) -
Pasuljevic, G. & Džukić, G. (1979) -
Patawang, I. & Pinthong, K. & Thongnetr, W. & Sornnok, S. & Kaewmad, P. & Tanomtong, A. (2018) -
This study determined the standardized karyotype and idiogram of Takydromus sexlineatus from Surin Province in northeastern Thailand. Mitotic metaphase chromosomes from bone marrow cells and different meiotic stage from testicular cells respectively were studied after staining with conventional Giemsa and Ag-NOR banding techniques for chromosome identification. The study was carried out with samples taken from both male and female T. sexlineatus, the sex of which was identified by external examination. The results showed that the diploid chromosome number of T. sexlineatus was 2n = 38 and the fundamental number (NF) was 38 in both male and female. Although chromosome study was done in both sexes of T. sexlineatus, this study does not identify the sex chromosomes. This is because of the limitation of the staining techniques used. Therefore, we did not conclude on the sex chromosome system in this species and all chromosomes were taken as autosomes. The types of autosomes observed were 16 large telocentric, 14 medium telocentric, and 6 small telocentric macrochromosomes and 2 microchromosomes. Our result is the new record in Thailand on this species and NOR characteristics by silver staining is the first report on NOR banding in this species. The karyotype formula of T. sexlineatus thus was found as: 2n(38) = L 16 t + M 14 t + S 6 t + 2 microchromosomes.
Patel, H. & Vyas, R. (2019) -
Patel, H. & Vyas, R. (2020) -
A new species of the lacertid genus Ophisops is described based on a single female specimen from a plateau in the Dahod district, Gujarat state, western India. The new species is diagnosable by the following suite of characters: a small-sized Ophisops (adult, snout to vent length 40.8 mm); two frontonasals; prefrontals not in contact; enlarged tympanic scale absent; 30 scales around mid-body; 19 lamellae underneath the fourth toe; five chin shields, first two in contact medially; 15 gular scales between symphysis of chin shields and ventral plates; large mental scale, extending beyond second supralabial; females with 9 femoral pores on either side interrupted by three poreless scales. The new species, Ophisops agarwali sp. nov. is the fourth endemic species of reptile described in last 12 years from the state of Gujarat and highlights the rich and unique diversity of this understudied region. The single known specimen of the new species was collected nearly two decades ago and recent surveys by the authors at the type locality and surrounding areas failed to yield a surviving population which reflects the possibility that Ophisops agarwali sp. nov. may have been lost before any understanding could be gained about its existence or identity. The study emphasises dire need for proper taxonomic documentation of animals from poorly studied regions in India.
Patharka, T. & Passel, L. van & Brock, K.M. (2022) -
Podarcis wall lizards mainly feed on coleopterans, orthopterans, arachnids, and other small invertebrates. However, Aegean wall lizards, Podarcis erhardii, are widely distributed across Aegean islands and are increasingly observed eating non-traditional food items ranging from plant material to conspecific eggs and body parts. Here, we report the first documented case of P. erhardii consuming a large centipede, Scolopendra cingulata. The predator-prey relationship between these species has appeared to go both ways and may intensify on islands.
Patier, N. & Gosselin, F. (2014) -
Patouillard, F. (2018) -
Patrakoiv, S.V. & Kuranova, V.N. (2006) -
Specimens of Lacerta agilis and Zootoca vivipara were investigated at the vicinity of Tomsk, Russia, with respect to their moulting activity. There are species-specific, age-specific, sex-specific, seasonal and annual differences in the process of moulting. Seasonal dynamics of moulting had one or two peaks per season and depended on the habitat. Because of intensive growth, immature individuals had 2 or 3 moults per season. Adult females may shed their skin after pregnancy. According to changing abiotic factors the frequency of moulting increased or decreased. Individuals usually moult non-simultaneously. Differences in moulting frequency seem to be species-specific.
Patterson, J.W. & Davies, P.M.C. (1978) -
1. Laceria vivipara were hibernated from October to March. Respiration rates were measured at various times during this period and compared with respiration rates of lizards at the same temperatures in July. 2. Rates of respiration at 10C soon after entry into hibernation and towards the end of the dormant period did not differ significantly from rates at 10C in July. 3. After several weeks in hibernation at 10C a depression of metabolism occurred which produced acclimated respiration rates significantly lowe than 10C rates measured at other times of year. This is interpreted as a probable case of negative metabolic compensation to temperature (inverse acclimation). 4. No difference in respiration rates at 5C could be detected between dormant and summer lizards. 5. Energy expenditure during winter dormancy accounts for approximately 5% of the energy assimilated annually from food. Inverse acclimation at 10C effects an energy saving amounting to about 35% of the total dormancy expenditure.
1.|Mean preferred body temperature (PBT) of thermoregulating Lacerta vivipara were measured monthly in the laboratory between April and October. 2. 2.|Mean PBT varied between 27.3°C and 32.4°C. 3. 3.|Male lizards usually had higher PBT than females. 4. 4.|In general, PBT were higher in spring and autumn than in summer, although the PBT of females was very low early in the spring.
Patterson, J.W. & Davies, P.M.C. (1984) -
Male and female Psammodromus hispanicus from southern Europe were acclimated to four seasonal conditions of photoperiod and night time temperature. During the dark period, the lizards` body temperatures fell to ambient air temperature but during the light period the lizards were allowed to thermoregulate behaviourally and at such times the lizards` mean body temperature varied from 29.0°C to 32.6°C. The resting metabolic rate of these lizards was measured in 5°C steps from 5°C to 30°C or 35°C. Sexual condition had little effect on resting metabolic rate, but at low temperatures lizards acclimated to winter or spring seasonal conditions had lower resting metabolic rates than those acclimated to summer or autumn conditions. At temperatures above 20°C seasonal acclimation had no effect on resting metabolic rate. It is considered that the reduction in low temperature metabolic rate in spring and winter is induced by low night time temperatures and serves to conserve energy during those seasons when lizards must spend long periods at low temperature without being able to feed.
Patterson, J.W. & Davies, P.M.C. (1989) -
We measured activity temperature range and resting metabolic rate in the lacertid lizards Lacerta vivipara (a cool temperate species) and Podarcis hispanica (warm temperate). Both species thermoregulate behaviorally over only a narrow range of body temperatures and have very similar activity temperature ranges. Resting metabolic rate of L. vivipara is significantly higher than that of P. hispanica over the temperature range 5-35 C. In addition, Q10 values for the resting metabolic rate of L. vivipara are lower than those for P. hispanica. We suggest these differences in the resting metabolic rate of the two species are related to the longer periods spent at low temperatures by L. vivipara.
Patterson, J.W. & Davies, P.M.C. & Veasey, D.A. & Griffiths, J.R. (1978) -
1. Quantities of glycogen in liver and muscle tissue of Lacertavivipara were determined at different times of year. 2. Glycogen content of muscle is less in summer than in spring and autumn. 3. Glycogen content of liver is low in spring and early summer but increases progressively in late summer and autumn. 4. Glycogen accounts for only 2–3% of the energy store of Lacertavivipara entering hibernation.
Pätz, S. (2025) -
Paul, E. (2006) -
Paul, J.S. (2012) -
Tierkognition ist ein Forschungsfeld, dass sich mit Lern- und Gedächtnisprozessen von einer Vielfalt von Arten beschäftigt. Obwohl der Bereich der Säuger- und Vogelkognition recht gut erforscht ist, weiß man bis heute nur wenig über die Kognition von Reptilien. Aufgrund der der evolutionären Verbindung zwischen den Klassen ist ein detailliertes Wissen über Reptilienkognition jedoch notwendig um die Evolution der Kognition vollständig verstehen zu können. Es war das Ziel dieser Dissertation zum besseren Verständnis der räumlichen Kognition von Reptilien beizutragen. Nach einen Überblick über Kognitionsforschung und räumlicher Orientierung von Reptilien in den ersten beiden Kapiteln, beschreiben Kapitel 3 und 4 Studien über das Verhalten von Köhlerschildkröten (Geochelone carbonaria) und Perleidechsen (Lacerta lepida) im Sternlabyrinth. Beide Arten zeigten eine starke Präferenz für Bewegungslernen, was darauf hinweist, dass sich Reptilien im Vergleich zu Säugern und Vögel mehr auf intrinsische Hinweise verlassen könnten. Kapitel 5 beschreibt eine Studie die zeigt, dass Köhlerschildkröten in der Lage waren den Weg um einen Zaun zum Futter zu finden wenn dies zuvor von einen Artgenossen demonstriert wurde, nicht aber ohne die Demonstration. Da Köhlerschildkröten Einzelgänger sind weist dies darauf hin, dass sie ein großes Problemlösungsrepertoire haben. Die in Kapitel 6 beschriebene Studie zeigt, dass Köhlerschildkröten Futter und Nicht-Futter Gegenstände auf Fotos unterscheiden können und somit in der Lage sind zweidimensionale Bilder zu erkennen und zu verstehen. Kapitel 7 präsentiert Ergebnisse, die die Fähigkeit von Köhlerschildkröten einen Sensorbildschirm zu bedienen belegen, eine Begabung die bislang in Reptilen noch nicht gezeigt wurde. Des Weiteren waren die Schildkröten in der Lage Wissen welches sie am Bildschirm erlernt haben in eine dreidimensionale Arena zu übertragen. In dem abschließenden Diskussionskapitel habe ich die wichtigsten Daten meiner fünf empirischen Studien zusammengefasst und schließe mit der Frage was diese für die Kognition von Reptilien bedeuten. Basierend auf der jedoch deutlichen begrenzten Datenmenge, die in Bezug auf Reptilienkognition existiert, ist anzunehmen, dass die Kognitionsprozesse von Reptilien denen von Säugern und Vögeln größtenteils ähneln. Bevor allerdings direkte Vergleiche zwischen den Klassen und beweiskräftige Schlussfolgerungen gezogen werden können muss noch viel Basisforschung betrieben werden.
Paulinoi d`Oliveira, M. (1896) -
Pauliny, A. & Miller, E. & Rollings, N. & Wapstra, E. & Blomqvist, D. & Friesen C.R. & Olsson, M. (2018) -
Standardized swim-up trials are used in in vitro fertilization clinics to select particularly motile spermatozoa in order to increase the probability of a successful fertilization. Such trials demonstrate that sperm with longer telomeres have higher motility and lower levels of DNA damage. Regardless of whether sperm motility, and successful swim-up to fertilization sites, is a direct or correlational effect of telomere length or DNA damage, covariation between telomere length and sperm performance predicts a relationship between telomere length and probability of paternity in sperm competition, a prediction that for ethical reasons cannot be tested on humans. Here, we test this prediction in sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) using experimental data from twice-mated females in a laboratory population, and telomere length in blood from the participating lizards. Female identity influenced paternity (while the mechanism was not identified), while relatively longer male telomeres predicted higher probability of paternity. We discuss potential mechanisms underpinning this result.
Paulo, O. (1988) -
Paulo, O.F. (2001) -
Paulo, O.S. (1999) -
Paulo, O.S. (2008) -
Paulo, O.S. & Dias, S. & Bruford, M.W. & Jordan, W.C. & Nichols, R.A. (2001) -
Ancient climatic fluctuations have caused changes in the demography and distribution of many species. The genetic differentiation between populations of the same species and of sister species is often attributed largely to the more recent Pleistocene fluctuations. Recent interpretations, which implicate earlier episodes, have proved controversial. We address the timing of genetic divergence in the Iberian lizard Lacerta schreiberi by studying the phylogeography of the cytochrome b sequence. The species has a remarkable morphological uniformity, yet our evidence suggests that earlier events in the Pliocene initiated the main divergence between populations. This interpretation implies that the different populations survived through the Pleistocene in separate localities. This conclusion is robust to different molecular clock calibrations. The persistence of earlier differentiation through the Pleistocene has wide implications for our understanding of Pleistocene refugia in this species and, by extension, to the biogeography of the whole region.
Paulo, O.S. & Jordan, W.C. & Bruford, M.W. & Nichols, R.A. (2002) -
The distribution of the lizard Lacerta schreiberi is likely to have been severely affected by the climatic cycles that have influenced the Iberian Peninsula. Information about the species ecology and Iberian physiogeography was used to generate specific hypotheses about episodes of colonization and subsequent population persistence. These hypotheses generated predictions about the distribution of genetic variation, which were tested using nested clade analysis (NCA) supplemented by analysis of molecular variance (amova). Two predictions were confirmed by NCA; that is those that specified multiple and allopatric refugia. However, the remaining three predictions were not corroborated by the analyses. Firstly, a simple analysis of the distribution of genetic variability failed to detect an expected difference in the pattern of colonization between the inland mountain system and the coastal region. Moreover, while NCA did detect the expected genetic pattern in southern coastal populations, it was explained in terms of long-distance migration, which seems implausible because of the extent of unsuitable habitat. A more likely cause of the pattern is population frag- mentation and a reduction in population size caused during the Holocene. Finally, NCA also failed to detect a northwestern population expansion, which is supported by other evidence. We conclude that NCA has a limited ability to detect range expansion led by individuals with more ancestral (interior) haplotypes.
Paulo, O.S. & Godinho, R. & Brito, J.C. & Crespo E.G. & Hall, H. & Nichols, R. & Bruford, M. (1998) -
Paulo, O.S. & Pinheiro, J. & Miraldo, A. & Bruford, M.W. & Jordan, W.C. & Nichols, R.A. (2008) -
The schism between North Africa and Southern Europe caused by the opening of the Strait of Gibraltar and the consequent refilling of the Mediterranean basin at the end of Messinian salinity crisis (MSC), 5.33 million years ago, has been advocated as the main event shaping biogeographical patterns in the western Mediterranean as exemplified by the distribution of species and subspecies and genetic variation within the ocellated lizard group. To reassess the role of the MSC, partial sequences of three mitochondrial DNA genes (cytochrome b, 12S and 16S ribosomal RNA) and two nuclear genes (β-fibrinogen and C-mos) from species of the ocellated lizard group were analysed. Three alternative hypotheses were tested: that divergence was initiated (i) by post-MSC vicariance as the basin filled, (ii) when separate populations established either side of the strait by pre-MSC overseas dispersal, and (iii) by post-MSC overseas dispersal. The pattern and level of divergence detected clearly refute the post-MSC vicariance hypothesis, and support a model of divergence initiated by earlier overseas dispersal. Indeed, our best estimate is that the basal Euro-African divergence predates the MSC event by several million years. The estimated divergence times among the populations in former Miocene Mediterranean islands, the current Betic and Rifian mountains, from adjacent mainland populations suggest overseas dispersal for the former and overland dispersal, or perhaps vicariance, for the latter. These results suggest that the MSC may have played a much less important role in shaping the current western Mediterranean biogeographical patterns than might have been anticipated from the dramatic nature of the episode.
Pauwels, O.S.G. (2016) -
We provide an updated, commented list of the reptiles of Gabon, with their occurrence in the country’s protected areas, national parks and reserves. This list is part of a book describing the current status of knowledge of the biodiversity of Gabon, including detailed descriptions and abundant illustrations of its ecosystems and protected areas.
Pauwels, O.S.G. & Biyogho Bi Essono II, T. & Carlino, P. & Chirio, L. & Huijbregts, B. & Leuteritz, T.E.J. & Rousseaux, D. & Tobi, E. & Vigna, C. & Van Neer, W. (2017) -
We present new Gabonese locality records, ecological data or unpublished museum material for Crocodylus niloticus (Crocodylidae), Trionyx triunguis (Trionychidae), Agama lebretoni (Agamidae), Hemidactylus fasciatus and H. mabouia (Gekkonidae), Gastropholis echinata (Lacertidae), Trachylepis albilabris (Scincidae), Afrotyphlops angolensis (Typhlopidae), Dipsadoboa viridis, Hapsidophrys smaragdinus, Toxicodryas pulverulenta (Colubridae), Naja melanoleuca (Elapidae), Lamprophis olivaceus, Psammophis cf. phillipsii (Lamprophiidae), Natriciteres fuliginoides (Natricidae), Causus lichtensteinii and C. maculatus (Viperidae). We document predation cases by Hapsidophrys smaragdinus on Hemidactylus mabouia and Trachylepis albilabris, by Naja melanoleuca on Sclerophrys regularis (Anura: Bufonidae) and by Psammophis cf. phillipsii on Phrynobatrachus auritus (Anura: Phrynobatrachidae), and consumption of Arius latiscutatus (Siluriformes: Ariidae) and Tragelaphus spekii (Cetartiodactyla: Bovidae) by Crocodylus niloticus. We add one, two and one snake species, respectively, to Estuaire, Moyen-Ogooué and Nyanga provinces’ reptile lists. We add four reptile species to the list for Wonga-Wongué Presidential Reserve. We refer all records of Agama agama in Gabon to A. picticauda.
Pauwels, O.S.G. & Burger, M. & Branch, W.R. & Tobi, E. & Yoga, J.-A. & Mikolo, E.-N. (2004) -
Pauwels, O.S.G. & Christy, P. & Honorez, A. (2006) -
A synthesis of the current state-of-knowledge of herpetofaunal diversity in the recently-created Gabonese national park system is provided. A provisional reptile list is currently available for only four of the 13 parks: Crystal Mountains, Loango, Lopé and Moukalaba-Doudou. Representation of endemic, near-endemic and legally-protected Gabonese reptiles in the parks is analyzed. Only one of the seven (near-)endemic species is recorded from a national park. Among non-park sites, Mount Iboundji and the Rabi oil field (including Lake Divangui) were shown to be of high herpetological interest, enough to constitute adequate biodiversity sanctuaries. Enforcement and revision of protection laws, especially regarding sea turtles, softshell turtles and crocodiles, is urgently needed.
Pauwels, O.S.G. & Das, S. & Camara, L.B. & Vhirio, L. & Doumbia, J. & D`Acoz, C.D. & Dufour, S. & Margarf, N. & Sonet, G. (2023) -
The lacertid Latastia ornata was known to date only by its holotype collected in 1938 in Bafatá, central Guinea-Bissau. We report new specimens and localities from Guinea-Conakry, a new country record and major range extension of 700 km SE of the type-locality. We provide an updated diagnosis of the species, including the first genetic and osteological data, and confirm that Latastia ornata is closely related to, but distinct from, L. longicaudata based on external morphology, cranial osteology, DNA data and zoogeography.
Pauwels, O.S.G. & Itam, S. (2013) -
We report a case of predation on Holaspis guentheri (Lacertidae) by the Senegal Kingfisher (Halcyon senegalensis, Alcedinidae) in Gamba, Ogooue-Maritime Province, southwestern Gabon.
Pauwels, O.S.G. & Kamdem Toham, A. & Chimsunchart, C. (2002) -
Based on our field surveys and literature records, we provide a preliminary list of the reptile fauna of the Chaillu Mountains, central-southern Gabon. The list includes 50 species: 2 crocodilians (Crocodylus cataphractus and Osteolaemus tetraspis), 2 chelonians (Pelusios castaneus and Kinixys erosa), 14 lacertilians (including a Hemidactylus new to Science) and 32 ophidians (including a Typhlopid new to Science, and the first record for Gabon of the freshwater snake Hydraethiops laevis), representing 15 families and 39 genera. The list is accompanied by local vernacular names, biological and ethnozoological data.
Pauwels, O.S.G. & Morelle, S. & Albert, J.-L. & Carlino, P. & Rahola, N. & Trape, J.-F. (2019) -
Presented is a compilation of new locality records with natural history data for 49 reptile species in Haut-Ogooué Province, southeastern Gabon, Equatorial Africa. One new snake species record is added to Gabon (Colubridae: Philothamnus hughesi), 14 new reptile species records to Haut-Ogooué Province, three new reptile records for Léconi Park, and 28 new reptile records for Lékédi Park. A predation case is reported of Naja melanoleuca preying on Dasypeltis fasciata and of Boaedon perisilvestris on a micromammal.
Pauwels, O.S.G. & Stévart, T. (2007) -
We provide the first record of Guenther`s Gliding Lizard, Holaspis guentheri (Lacertidae) from Monte Alen National Park and from Centro Sur Province, Equatorial Guinea.
Pauwels, O.S.G. & Vande Weghe, J.P. (2008) -
The book ``Reptiles du Gabon`` provides an extensive description of the reptile fauna currently recorded from Gabon. It includes 122 species, among them 13 chelonians, 3 crocodiles, 32 lacertilians, 3 amphisbaenians and 70 snakes. Photographs, morphological diagnosis, natural history data and a map are given for each species, including a so far undescribed Lygodactylus from Ivindo National Park. Several herpetologists were invited to write chapters: E. Nicholas Arnold (introduction to Lacertidae), Mark Auliya (intro. to Pythonidae), Aaron M. Bauer (intro. to Gekkonidae), Wolfgang Bohme (intro. to Chamaeleonidae and Varanidae), Roger Bour (intro. to Pelomedusidae), Bill Branch (intro. to Cordylidae, Atractaspidinae and Elapidae), Donald G. Broadley (intro. to Amphisbaenidae), Jean-Philippe Chippaux (snake bites and first aid), Patrick David (intro. to Natricidae and Viperidae), Cornelius C. de Haan (intro. to Psammophiinae), Richard Fergusson (intro. to crocodiles), Jacques Fretey (intro. to sea turtles), Dieter Gramentz (intro. to Trionychidae), Danny Meirte (identification key to Colubridae, Lamprophiidae and Natricidae), Zoltan Tamas Nagy and Nicolas Vidal (intro. to systematics of African Caenophidia), Brice P. Noonan (intro. to Boidae), Richard Oslisly (reptiles in Gabon prehistoric rock art), Jarmo Perala (intro. to Testudinidae), Michel Raynal (Mokele-mbembe Brontosaurus-like cryptid), Andreas Schmitz (intro. to Scincidae), Philipp Wagner (intro. to Agamidae) and Van Wallach (intro. to Leptotyphlopidae and Typhlopidae). An extensive bibliography of Gabonese herpetology is given.
Pavletić, J. (1964) -
Pavlicev, M. & Mayer, W. (2006) -
The analysis of a 581 bp section of the nuclear gene c-mos revealed multiple copies of putative functional sequences as well as pseudogenes in three closely related lacertid species Lacerta laevis, L. kulzeri and L. cyanisparsa. A phylogenetic analysis of c-mos in comparison with a molecular phylogeny based on the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene supports our findings. The study also provides new insights into the phylogenetic relationships of L. cyanisparsa and L. laevis. Pseudogenes of the three species share 11 single-nucleotide substitutions, a 1 bp deletion and a premature stop codon but differ by group-specific mutations. This result suggests that the c-mos gene has become duplicated and subsequently silenced already in the common ancestor of the three species. Sequence divergence suggests that the duplication and the loss of function occurred in the late Miocene/early Pliocene, i.e., about 5 million years ago. Indications of gene conversion are discussed. We suggest that future studies using c-mos for phylogenetic studies should provide evidence for the orthology of the sequences compared.
Pavlicev, M. & Mayer, W. (2009) -
Lacertinae is one of the three lacertid lizard subfamilies with a geographical distribution confined to the Palaearctic. Several past attempts to reconstruct its phylogeny resulted in unresolved bush-like topologies. We address the question of whether the lack of resolution is due to insufficient data or whether this lack reflects a rapid succession of speciation events. We analyzed four partial and one complete gene sequences from mitochondrial and nuclear genomes, totalling roughly 3600 bp. We included 29 species representing all 19 genera suggested in recent revision of Lacertinae [Arnold, E.N., Arribas, O., Carranza, S., 2007. Systematics of the palaearctic and oriental lizard tribe Lacertini (Squamata: Lacertidae: Lacertinae), with descriptions of eight new genera. Zootaxa 1430, 1–86]. The resulting phylogeny, first, corroborates monophyly at the genus level for the suggested genera, as well as the finding that Atlantolacerta andreanskyi, until recently part of Lacertinae, belongs to the subfamily Eremiadinae. Second, we find that increasing the sequence length and combining multiple nuclear and mitochondrial sequences did not resolve the polytomy, suggesting that the inferred topology indicates a multiple cladogenesis within a short geological period, rather than a methodical artefact. Divergence time estimates, based on previous estimates of several node ages, range from 13.9 to 14.9 million years for the radiation event, however with very broad confidence interval. To associate the radiation with a narrower geological time we consider palaeogeographic and palaeoclimatic data, assuming that the Lacertinae probably evolved in Central Europe andWAsia after the collision of Africa and Eurasia. We suggest that this radiation may date to the late Langhian (ca. 14–13.5 million years) when geological events caused abrupt changes in regional water–land distribution and climate, offering a window of distinct conditions.
Pavlov, P.V. (2000) -
The study concerns with the status of the reptiles in the reserve of «Privolzhskaya Le- sostep». Seven species of reptiles are registered in the territory of the reserve. Some ecological (biotopic trends, abundance, food preferences) and morphological factors (number of scales, color variability) of abundant reptiles are revealed.
Павлов П.В. (2000) -
Payeras Sabater, M.E. (2020) -
In actual society, the lifestyle that is carried out is far from everything to which we were biologically adapted. This lifestyle negatively affects the people`s health, mainly promoting stress. The objective of stress is to promote the expression of behaviors or changes in the physiology of body organs and tissues to achieve the survival of an organism that is under threat, but currently it has been seen that it is a very frequent state in adult humans . It has been shown that, in humans, stress is associated with severe disturbances of the circadian rhythm causing sleep disorders such as insomnia. This project aims to study the activity-rest rhythm (Wake-Sleep) in animals subjected to a stressful environment. For this, a group of Wistar rats (nocturnal homeothermic mammal) and a group of lizards of the species Gallotia galloti (diurnal poikilothermic reptile), both located for the first time in a nearby recording chamber, will be used. This is intended to create a stressful predator-prey environment (both species can be one or the other). If it is confirmed that stress can make circadian rhythms disappear in the rat, and / or in the lizard, it will have been shown that these rhythms have a degree of flexibility unsuspected until now.
Payne, L.G. (1938) -
Payot, V. (1864) -
Peaker, M. & Peaker, S.J. (1968) -
Now that Yugoslavia is rapidly becoming a European tourist centre, many herpetologists may be interested in the variety and abundance of forms which can be seen and collected there. This is a short account of the species seen during the last two weeks of March 1964 in an area so far little visited by British herpetologists. Rainfall was high during this period, in contrast apparently to the dry summer. It was understood from the local population that the visit was too early to see the larger lacertids and snakes.
Pearson, A.D. & Tamarind, D.L. (1973) -
Pecina, P. (1993) -
Pedro Silva, J. & Toland, J. & Jones, W. & Eldridge, J. & Hudson, J. & O`Hara, E. (2009) -
Peek, R. (2007) -
The Dalmatian Algyroides displays only two subspecies, this despite its relative large range of distribution. The subspecies Algyroides nigropunctatus nigropunctatus is found from north-east Italy through the Dalmatian coast up to northern Greece, including several islands in the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The distribution of the other subspecies, Algyroides nigropunctatus kephallithacius, is limited to the Ionian islands of Kefallonia/Ithaca, and possibly Lefkada. Information on the latter subspecies is almost absent from current literature. The author was able to locate and photograph A. nigropunctatus kephallithacius in its natural habitat of mountaineous regions of Kefallonia. The bright red/orange belly and blue throat colors typical for A. n. nigropunctatus were absent. Male A. n. kephallithacius had yellow bellies and greenish throats, while females and juveniles were uniformly yellow at the ventral side. In addition a theory is presented which may explain the process that has lead to the formation of the subspecies A. n. kephallithacius on Kefallonia.
Peek, R. (2009) -
A deviant population of green lizard of the Peloponnese (Greece) The author and several other amateur herpetologists report the presence of populations of green lizards in the west of the Peloponnese (Greece) that are deviant from the locally widespread Balkan green lizard (Lacerta trilineata trilineata). Males had green backs and lavender-blue lateral sides, while females were similar to Balkan green lizards. The habitat of these animals appeared to be restricted to the surroundings of (temporary) dry riverbeds. In view of the striking similarity to a subspecies of Levant green lizard (Lacerta media ciliciensis) speculations are made about their origin. Genetic research will be required to clarify the taxonomic status of these deviant populations of green lizards in the Peloponnese.
Morphological and behavioral abnormalities in F1 hybrids of Lacerta bilineata and Lacerta trilineata. A male L. trilineata was introduced to the enclosure of a female L. bilineata. Mating was observed and a clutch of eight eggs was produced. Three of these eggs hatched after 60 days of incubation at 26-30oC. The juveniles had characteristics of both parent species but displayed deformities at the front legs. Furthermore, they did not show any interest in prey items and subsequently died within 2 weeks. The remaining eggs contained dead, underdeveloped embryo’s with non-closed abdomens. These mechanisms may contribute to the reproductive isolation of both species in the region where their areas of distribution meet.
Peek, R. (2010) -
Observations on two endemic lizards of Greece: Peloponnese wall lizard (Podarcis peloponnesiacus) and Greek rock lizard (Hellenolacerta graeca) The Greek Peninsula the Peloponnese is extraordinarily rich in lizard species. Two of these species, the Peloponnese wall lizard (Podarcis peloponnesiaca) and the Greek rock lizard (Hellenolacerta graeca) are endemic to this part of Greece. The author describes his observations on these two species in the wild during two visits to the Peloponnese (September 2008 and June 2009). Furthermore, the behavior and reproduction of both species in captivity is discussed. The Peloponnese wall lizard was found to be an aggressive lizard that inhabits open and sunny habitats. The Greek rock lizard is more docile and prefers shady and more moist habitats in mountainous regions. Interestingly, both species appeared to be more common in the vicinity of human settlements than in the wild. In captivity they lay several clutches a year, each consisting of 4-5 eggs. The eggs hatch after about six weeks of incubation. Hatchlings of the Peloponnese wall lizard look similar to adult females while hatchlings of the Greek rock lizard already display sex differences and have brilliant blue tails. Juveniles of the latter species mature in their second year while the Peloponnese wall lizards take a year longer to become adult.
Peek, R. (2011) -
In June 2010 the author made a trip to the Sierra de Gredos (central Spain) to observe the local herpetofauna. Eight species of lizards were observed (Tarentola mauritanica, Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus hispanicus, Podarcis hispanicus, Iberolacerta cyreni, Lacerta schreiberi and Timon lepidus). On the north flank of the Sierra a large number of up to 40 individual adult Timon lepidus were observed. Interestingly, all animals were relatively small with snout-vent lengths of about 13 cm for females and 12 cm for males. The large head, characte- ristic for T. lepidus males, was not obvious in this population. The distribution and genetics of T. lepidus subspecies are discussed in relation to the deviant population of T. lepidus from the Sierra de Gredos.
Captive bred lizards in general and especially Emerald Lizards dislays aberrant pale blue/green body colors. These colors are less attractive than the bright yellow/green colors of lizards in the wild. Exoeriments were designed to solve this problem. The author subjected groups of captive bred juvenile Western Emerald Lizards (Lacerta bilineata) to different food and lighting conditions. From these experiments it became clear that artificial UV-light or unfiltered sunlight was not sufficient to induce normal body coloration. By changing the diet of the lizards from captive bred insects to wild-caught arthropods normal body coloration began to appear within one week. The feeding of artrificial pigments to induce the yellow color did not have anyeffect on body coloration, while red pigments (casrotenoids) induced red ventral coloration in male Peloponnese Wall Lizards (Podarcis peloponnesiacus) and red coloration of rostral and labial shields in Ocellated Lizards (Timon lepidus). These results show that the attractive bright body colors typical for Emerald Lizards (and several other lizard species) depend on the source of food.
The relation between body colors and food source in Western Emerald lizards (Lacerta bilineata) and several other Lacertidae. Captive bred lizards in general and especially Emerald lizards display aberrant pale blue/green body colors. These colors are less attractive than the bright yellow/green colors of lizard in the wild. Experiments were designed to solve this problem. The author subjected groups of captive bred juvenile Western Emerald lizards to different food and lighting conditions. From these experiments it became clear that artificial UV-light or unfiltered sunlight was not sufficient to induce normal body coloration. By changing the diet of the lizards from captive bred insects to wild-caught arthropods normal body coloration began to appear within one week. The feeding of artificial pigments to induce the yellow color did not have any effect on body coloration, while red pigments (carotenoids) induced red ventral coloration in male Peloponnese wall lizards (Podarcis peloponnesiaca) and red coloration of rostral and labial shields in Ocellated lizards (Timon lepidus). These results show that the attractive bright body colors typical for Emerald lizards (and several other lizard species) depend on the source of food.
Peek, R. (2012) -
The Western emerald lizard (Lacerta bilineata) in captivity. This article describes aspects that are of importance in successfully keeping and breeding the Western emerald lizard (Lacerta bilineata). The lizards are in the outdoor enclosures for most of the year but during hibernation and reproduction the animals are kept indoors. A group of adults consisting of up to five females and a single male can be housed together. Females produce up to four clutches per year each containing between 12 and 23 eggs. After an incubation of about 50 days the eggs hatch. The juveniles are housed in large groups in plastic cement buckets during spring and summer. Food consists mainly of home reared cockroaches but in summer time also wild-caught insects, spiders and snails are provided. The young lizards reach sexual maturity after approximately 10 months.
Peek, R. (2013) -
The author describes his observations on the Pamphylian green lizard (Lacerta pamphylica) in the wild and in captivity. During s short stay in Turey in the area around the cities Side and Manavgat, the specie was found mainly near streams and canals. Pamphylian green lizards were found to adapt very well to conditions in captivity. Females produced up tp three clutches per season each cotaining a maximum of 12 eggs. The young hatched after an incubation of approximately 100 days at 27° C and became sexually mature in their second spring. By counting the number of ventral scale rows, it is possible to determine the sex of Pamphylian green lizards right after hatching.
The Pamphylian emerald lizard (Lacerta pamphylica) in the wild and in captivity The author describes his observations on the Pamphylian emerald lizard (Lacerta pamphylica) in the wild and in captivity. This species is known to occur in a narrow strip of land between Antalya and the Goksu delta. During a short stay in the area around the cities Side and Manavgat the Pamphylian emerald lizard was found mainly near streams and canals. Adult males were all very similar in appearance with brilliant blue heads, green backs and orange flanks. Females were much more variable in color. The species was found to adapt very well to conditions in captivity. Females produced up to three clutches per season each containing a maximum of 12 eggs. The young hatched after an incubation of approximately 100 days at 27˚C and became sexually mature in their second spring. By counting the number of ventral scale rows it is possible to determine the sex of Pamphylian emerald lizards already at birth. Males have 28 (rarely 26 or 29) rows and females 29 or 30 rows.
Peek, R. (2015) -
Die Gattung der Gebirgseidechsen (Iberolacerta) umfasst acht Arten, deren Verbreitungsgebiete auf der Iberischen Halbinsel, in den Pyrenäen sowie im Dinarischen Gebirge liegen. Dieser Artikel befasst sich mit der Zentraliberischen Gebirgseidechse, Iberolacerta cyreni, die in den Gebirgszügen im östlichen Teil der Spanischen Zentralkordillere beheimatet ist. Beobachtungen an dieser Gebirgseidechse fanden jeweils im Juni in den Jahren 2010-2013 in der Sierra de Gredos, Spanien, statt und wurden mit Angaben aus der Literatur verglichen. Es werden Details bezüglich Verbreitung, Verhalten, Fortpflanzung und Prädatoren gegeben. Besonderes Augenmerk wurde auf die hohe Anzahl autotomierter Schwänze bei den adulten Felseidechsen gelegt.
Male courtship behavior in lizard species of the genus Lacerta usually begins by gentle biting in the female’s flanks, hind legs and tail. Eventually, the male will clamp onto the female by biting her flank followed by copulation. In Balkan Green Lizards (Lacerta trilineata) from the Peloponnese (Greece) the author observed an additional and very remarkable aspect of courtship behavior. Males repeatedly produced a clearly audible hissing sound during courtship which lasted up to 40 seconds. This suggests that sound is part of mating behavior in Balkan Green Lizards, a phenomenon that has not been described for any of the other species in the genus Lacerta.
Cyrens’s rock lizard (Iberolacerta cyreni): a tale with a tail. The genus Iberolacerta consists of eight alpine lizard species from the Iberian Peninsula, the Pyrenees and Dinaric chanins. In this article the author focuses on one species, Cyren’s (or Carpentane) rock lizard which occurs in mountain ranges of the Eastern part of the Sistema central (Spain). Observatzions on this particular rock lizard were made in June during the years 2010-2013 in the Sierra de Gredos, and compared with data from literature. Details about distribution, behavior, reproduction and predation are presented. Special attention was given to the high frequency of autotomized tails that was observed in the adult rovck lizards.
Peek, R. (2017) -
This report describes the discovery and detailed description of a new small sized morph of ocellated lizard from the northern slopes of the Sierra de Gredos (Castilla y Leon, Spain). Morphological and molecular analysis showed that this new morph is different from the common species of ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus) on the Iberian peninsula in body size, sexual size dimorphism and cytochrome b haplotype. DNA sequencing revealed a unique and highly divergent cytochrome b haplotype indicating a long-term separation from other species of ocellated lizards. Evolutionary mechanisms that may have contributed to the formation of the small sized morph are discussed. The results presented in this paper suggest that this new morph is likely to be recognized as a full species in the near future.
The blue-sided lizards of the Peloponnese (Greece) Green lizards of the Lacerta trilineata cluster form a complex taxonomic group with several species and subspecies. During herpetological oriented journeys to the Peloponnese (Greece), populations of green lizards were observed that were strikingly different from the subspecies of Balkan green lizard (Lacerta trilineata trilineata) known to be present on the peninsula, by having blue-sides and all green backs. In this article I have analysed the phylogenetic relationship of these unusually colored green lizards by DNA analysis and subsequently comparing part of the cytochrome b gene to other species within the Lacerta trilineata cluster. From these analyses it became clear that the blue-sided lizards were genetically different from all L. trilineata subspecies described so far, but most closely related to the normally colored L. trilineata trilineata from the Peloponnese. This may indicate that the blue-sided L. trilineata represents a new subspecies restricted to the West of the Peloponnese. In captivity the blue-sided lizards do remarkably well and reproduce abundantly. During courtship the male blue-sided lizards display extraordinary behavior by producing a clearly audible sound. So far I have bred these interesting lizards in captivity unto the third generation.
Peek, R. (2018) -
Seit einigen Jahren versucht der Autor, eine Lösung für das Problem der im Allgemeinen matten Körperfarben von in Menschenobhut gezüchteten großen Lacertiden wie Lacerta bilineata, L. trilineata und Timon lepidus zu finden. Frühere Untersuchungen hatten ergeben, dass bei diesen im Terrarium gezüchteten Eidechsen vor allem das gelbe Pigment fehlte, was zu unnatürlich bläulichen Körperfarben führte. Nach dem Ausschluss von (UV-)Licht als bestimmender Faktor für natürliche Körperfarben bei diesen Eidechsen wurde die Nahrung (Insekten) als Quelle des gelben Pigments identifiziert. In Gefangenschaft gezüchtete Insekten besitzen dieses Pigment nicht, während in der Natur gefangene Insekten ausreichende Mengen des gelben Pigments enthalten, um natürliche Körperfarben bei in Menschenobhut gezüchteten Eidechsen hervorzurufen. Da es vor allem in gemäßigten Klimazonen fast unmöglich ist, für eine große Zahl von Eidechsen-Nachzuchten genügend Insekten aus der freien Wildbahn zu fangen, versuchte der Autor, eine synthetische Alternative zu finden, um natürliche Körperfarben bei den Nachzuchten zu erzeugen. Im vorliegenden Artikel wurde Sauriflavin (ein synthetisch modifiziertes Carotinoid) mehreren Arten von großen Lacertiden verabreicht, und es wurde festgestellt, dass es zu einer normalen Gelbfärbung und damit zu einer normalen Grünkörperpigmentierung führt. Sauriflavin ist wasserlöslich und scheint keine toxische Wirkung auf junge oder erwachsene Eidechsen zu haben. Interessanterweise konnten Weibchen, die mit Sauriflavin gefüttert wurden, die normale Körperpigmentierung über die Eier auf ihre Nachkommen übertragen.
Das Verbreitungsgebiet der Pamphylischen Smaragdeidechse (Lacerta pamphylica) beschränkt sich auf die südliche Küstenregion der Türkei. Die Art galt lange Zeit als Unteratrt der Riesensmaragdeidechse (Lacerta trilineata), wurde jedoch 1986 als eigenständige Art beschrieben. Trotz ihrer attraktiven Farben und Verhaltensweisen sind die Erfahrungen über die Haltung der Pamphylischen Smarageidechse im Terrarium spärlich. In diesem Artikel werden Angaben zur Inkubationszeit von 9 Gelegen von fünf Weibchen dieser Art gemacht. Die Inkubationszeit der Gelege bis zum Schlupf des jeweils ersten Eies variierte dabei erheblich von 74 bis 124 Tagen. Auch die Zeitspanne zwischen den Schlüpfen des ersten und letzten Eies innerhalb eines Geleges war extrem unterschiedlich und reichte von 13 bis 29 Tagen. Dies deutet darauf hin, dass die Fortpflanzungsbiologie der Pamphylischen Smaragdeidechse einige Besonderheiten aufweist, die bei anderen großen Arten aus der Gruppe der Smaragdeidechsen bisher noch nicht beobachtet wurden. Der Vorteil dieser einzigartigen Fortpflanzungsstrategie ist nicht direkt ersichtlich. Angesichts der trockenen Klimabedingungen im Sommer im Lebensraum dieser Art in der Südtürkei könnten diese erheblichen Unterschiede der Inkubationszeit sicherstellen, dass zumindest einige der Jungtiere in Zeiten günstiger Wetterbedingungen schlüpfen, was ihre Überlebenschancen erhöhen könnte.
Peek, R. (2019) -
The discovery of a new variant of the Ocellated lizard in Central Spain This report describes the discovery and detailed description of a new morph of Ocellated lizard from the Northern slopes of the Sierra de Gredos (Castilla y Leon, Spain). Morphological and molecular analysis showed that this new morph is different from the common species of ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus) on the Iberian peninsula in body size, sexual size dimorphism and cytochrome b haplotype. DNA sequencing revealed a unique and highly divergent cytochrome B haplotype indicating a long-term separation from other species of ocellated lizards. In view of its remarkable small stature I have chosen minor (“minor” meaning smaller) as an appropriate name for this new morph. Evolutionary mechanisms that may have contributed to the formation of T. lepidus “minor” are discussed. The results presented in this paper suggest that this new morph is likely to be recognized as a full species in the near future.
Extreme variation in incubation time between clutches, and between eggs of the same clutch in the Pamphylian green lizard (Lacerta pamphylica) The Pamphylian green lizard (Lacerta pamphylica) is endemic to the Southern coastal region of Turkey. The species has long been considered a subspecies of the Balkan green lizard (Lacerta trilineata), but was described as a separate species in 1975. Despite its attractive colors and behavior, experiences with the Pamphylian green lizard in captivity are scarce. In this article the author has investigated the incubation time of nine clutches from five females of this species, which resulted in some remarkable observations. Incubation time of clutches varied from 74 to 124 days before the first egg hatched. Also, the time between hatching of the first and last egg of the same clutch was extremely variable and ranged from 13 to 29 days. These observations indicate that the reproductive biology of the Pamphylian green lizard displays some features not observed in other species of large green lizards. The evolutionary advantage of these unique reproductive features is not directly clear. In view of the arid climate conditions in summer in Southern Turkey, the large variation in incubation time between clutches and between eggs of the same clutch may ensure that at least some of the juveniles are born during periods of favorable weather conditions. This might increase their chances of survival.
Peek, R. & Leenders, W. (2015) -
Smaragdeidechsen der Lacerta-trilineata-Gruppe bilden eine komplexe taxonomische Gruppe aus mehreren Arten und Unterarten. Während herpetologisch ausgerichteter Reisen auf die Peloponnes konnten Smaragdeidechsen-Populationen beobachtet werden, deren Tiere sich durch ihre blauen Flanken und einen vollständig grünen Rücken auffallend von der auf der Peloponnes-Halbinsel verbreiteten Riesensmaragdeidechse (Lacerta trilineata trilineata) unterscheiden. In diesem Bericht möchten wir die Ergebnisse unserer DNA-Untersuchungen und die phylogenetischen Verwandtschaftsbeziehungen dieser ungewöhnlich gefärbten Smaragdeidechsen zu anderen Arten der Lacerta-trilineata-Gruppe vorstellen.
Peek, R. & Soest, J. van (2013) -
Since the first report by KEYMAR (1986): very little information has been published on Algyroides nigropunctatus kephallithacius. In this article we present our observations on this subspecies of the Dalmatian Algyroides on the Ionian islands Kefallonia (in September 2007) and Lefkas (in May 2011).
Peeters, H.T.M. & Dijk, W.J. van & Janssen, A.J.C. (1976) -
Pegoraro, F. & Fioretto, M. (2000) -
Pekar, S. & Gajski, D. & Mifkova, T. & Smolinsky, R. & Gojak, T. & Martisova, M. (2023) -
An analysis of the diets of reptiles is essential for understanding the role of reptiles in the ecosystem and the employment of successful conservation management plans. For this purpose, noninvasive and invasive methods to identify consumed prey have been used. Here, we investigated the diet of male and female European Green Lizards (Lacerta viridis) by sampling fecal pellets across 2 yr in the spring and late summer at a single site. We used the following two methods for identifying prey remnants from fecal samples: the classical macroscopic approach that requires competent expert knowledge and the molecular approach based on the dietary metabarcoding of nondegraded prey remnant DNA. According to both methods, lizards consumed mainly insects belonging to 13 orders, with Coleoptera as the dominant prey. The number of prey taxa was similar between the sexes, but the prey composition at the genus level was significantly different, with males capturing some coleopterans more than females. The diets also differed significantly between season. In the spring, lizards consumed many more prey types and many more coleopteran specimens than in late summer. The proportion of identified prey taxa was significantly different between the identification methods. From the total of identified prey, macroscopic identification yielded only about 50% of taxa, whereas molecular identification yielded more than 80% of taxa. Our results show that molecular identification can recover a much higher number of prey than the macroscopic method, yet not all prey. Thus, the integration of both methods best described the natural diet and complex trophic interactions of European Green Lizards.
Pellegrin, J. (1910) -
Pellegrin, J. (1926) -
Pellegrin, J. (1927) -
Pellegrini, M. & Tizio, L. di (2004) -
Pellerin, F. & Bestion, E. & Winandy, L. & Gesu, L. di & Richard, M. & Aguilée, R. & Cote, J. (2022) -
1. Contemporary climate change affects population dynamics, but its influence varies with landscape structure. It is still unclear whether landscape fragmentation buffers or amplifies the effects of climate on population size and the age and body size of individuals composing these populations. 2. This study aims to investigate the impacts of warm climates on lizard life-history traits and population dynamics in habitats that vary in their connectivity. 3. We monitored common lizard Zootoca vivipara populations for 3 years in an experimental system in which both climatic conditions and connectivity among habitats were simultaneously manipulated. We considered two climatic treatments (i.e. present-day climate and warm climate [+1.4°C than present-day climate]) and two connectivity treatments (i.e. a connected treatment in which individuals could move from one climate to the other and an isolated treatment in which movement between climates was not possible). We monitored survival, reproduction, growth, dispersal, age and body size of each individual in the system as well as population density through time. 4. We found that the influence of warm climates on life-history traits and population dynamics depended on connectivity among thermal habitats. Populations in warm climates were (i) composed of younger individuals only when isolated; (ii) larger in population size only in connected habitats and (iii) composed of larger age-specific individuals independently of the landscape configuration. The connectivity among habitats altered population responses to climate warming likely through asymmetries in the flow and phenotype of dispersers between thermal habitats. 5. Our results demonstrate that landscape fragmentation can drastically change the dynamics and persistence of populations facing climate change.
Pellitteri-Rosa, D. (2010) -
Color polymorphism is widespread in animals, but mechanisms underlying morph evolution and maintenance are not yet completely understood. Among Reptiles, color polymorphism is quite common, particularly in Saurians, where it has often a genetic basis and is frequently associated with the evolution of alternative behavioural strategies (competitive and/or reproductive) related to social context. Both sexes of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) show three pure and three intermediate color morphs on ventral scales. In this study, I looked for associations between physiological traits, female reproductive strategies and colour morphs by analysing haematological profiles and primary reproductive efforts in P. muralis females.
Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Bellati, A. & Cocca, W. & Gazzola, A. & Martín, J. & Fasola, M. (2017) -
Prey–predator interactions are plastic behaviours shown by both players, which constantly modify their decisions depending on physiological conditions and ecological context. We investigated whether the behavioural response to repeated simulated predatory attacks varied between adult males of the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, inhabiting environments characterized by different degrees of human presence. Our aim was to detect possible effects of urbanization on antipredator responses, in terms of activity, time spent hidden in refuges and habituation. Moreover, since this lizard species exhibits intrapopulation colour polymorphism, we looked for the occurrence of possible correlations between antipredator strategy and individual ventral coloration. We found that urban lizards spent less time in their refuge after predatory attacks and decreased successive hiding times faster than rural lizards, suggesting different wariness towards a potential predator. Irrespective of population, yellow lizards gradually spent less time in the refuge before appearing and emerging outside than the other two morphs. Conversely, red lizards showed progressively longer appearance and emergence times after successive tests, suggesting a growing sensitization to the potential threat of a predatory attack. In conclusion, our study showed the occurrence of different levels of behavioural plasticity in common wall lizard`s antipredator response: the population level, depending on ecological context, here different degrees of exposure to human disturbance, and the individual level, which suggests the occurrence of morph-specific antipredator strategies. Thus, using a lizard species as a model, we shed light on two key points of evolutionary ecology concerning both the antipredator response and the factors driving the maintenance of intraspecific polymorphism.
Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Gazzola, A. (2022) -
Integral Natural Reserve is located in the municipalities of Zerbolò and Torre d’Isola and extends along the Ticino river, about fifteen kilometers from the city of Pavia. The Reserve is home to a small surviving strip of plain Po Valley forest, a mixed broad-leaved forest, characterized by the total suspension of management activities from many decades. Being an integral reserve, it is not intended for visits by the public, but for the conservation of forest vegetation and fauna. The only activities are those related to dedicated scientific research. This study presents the results of a monitoring survey of amphibians and reptiles conducted in the period 2020-2021 using Visual Encounter Surveys (VES) and artificial shelters.
Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Liuzzi, C. & Bellati, A. (2015) -
Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Martin, J. & López, P. & Bellati, A. & Sacchi, R. & Fasola, M. & Galeotti, P. (2013) -
Colour polymorphism has been described in many animal taxa, with two or more different morphs coexisting within the same population and often associated to different life history and behavioural traits such as alternative reproductive or social strategies. Reptiles offer an excellent model to investigate the evolution and maintenance of colour polymorphism since it’s quite common and is frequently associated in both sexes with the evolution of alternative behavioural strategies (competitive and/or reproductive) related to social context. The presence of alternative colour morphs has also been observed in the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), in which both sexes show three main distinct colour morphs in the throat and ventral region. Chemical senses have an important role in intraspecific communication and social organization of lizards, which use chemical cues for different purposes, such as advertising residence or informing on dominance status or male’s characteristics, which females may use to select mates or take residence in a male’s territory. In this study, we used gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to explore whether there is chemical polymorphism in the lipophilic fraction of femoral gland secretions between male colour morphs. All compounds were shared by most males but there were differences in proportion of compounds between morphs. Pairwise comparisons showed that white morph lizards had significantly different chemical profiles than both yellow and red ones, but differences between yellow and red morphs did not reach significance. A CAP analysis classified on average 67.2 % of the chemical profiles into the correct morph (white: 85.0 %, red: 60.9 %, yellow: 57.1 %). Finally, there were significant differences between morphs with respect to the proportions of tocopherols and furanones, but morphs did not differ significantly in proportions of other classes of compounds.
Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Martin, J. & López, P. & Bellati, A. & Sacchi, R. & Fasola, M. & Galeotti, P. (2014) -
Previous studies showed that common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) are polymorphic in colour, both sexes showing three main ventral morphs (white, yellow and red) within the same population and that the three morphs correlate with many life-history traits, including a positive assortative mating according to colour. Chemical communication plays a key role in intra-specific recognition and in social organization of lizards; thus chemical cues might be involved in morph recognition and mate choice. We used gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to investigate possible differences in the lipophilic fraction of femoral gland secretions between size/age classes and to explore whether chemical secretions match male colour morphs. As expected, most males shared the same compounds, but smaller males showed significantly higher proportions of aldehydes, alcohols and ketones and significantly lower proportions of tocopherols than larger males. Interestingly, inter-morph differences in the proportion of some compounds (especially tocopherols and furanones) matched ventral colour polymorphism. Pairwise comparisons showed that white lizards had significantly different chemical profiles than both the yellow and red ones, whereas differences between yellow and red males were only marginal. A further canonical analysis of principal coordinates correctly classified 67.2 % on average of the chemical profiles according to colour morph (white 85.0 %, red 60.9 %, yellow 57.1 %). We hypothesized that chemical differences associated with colour polymorphism may play a central role in intra-specific communication and even in sexual selection, allowing individuals to choose their partners according to their age, and more interestingly according to their colour morph, in a non-random mating population system.
Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Sacchi, R. & Paoli, A. di & Ghitti, M. & Bellato, A. & Fasola, M. & Galeotti, P. (2010) -
Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Sacchi, R. & Puppin, F. & Bellati, A. & Cocca, W. & Gentilli, A. & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2012) -
Female common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) typically reproduce annually and lay more than one clutch per season. In this study, we tested whether females store sperm between clutches and between years by manipulating mating opportunities of females through appropriate experiments. Our results revealed that females are definitely unable to store sperm for medium or long-term, suggesting they necessary need to repeatedly mate with males to fertilize their eggs. Finally, by comparing our results to other similar multi-clutched species, we conclude that sperm storage probably does not constitute a selective advantage for species with a promiscuous reproductive system based on multiple mating in populations with high densities.
Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Sindaco, R. & Rossi, R. & Donelli, O. & Delle Monache, D. & Bellati, A. & Pedrotti, L. (2016) -
Pelt, J. van (1964) -
Penalver-Alcaraz, M. & Aragón, P. (2016) -
Modeling species` habitat requirements are crucial to assess impacts of global change, for conservation efforts and to test mechanisms driving species presence. While the influence of abiotic factors has been widely examined, the importance of biotic factors and biotic interactions, and the potential implications of local processes are not well understood. Testing their importance requires additional knowledge and analyses at local habitat scale. Here, we recorded the locations of species presence at the microhabitat scale and measured abiotic and biotic parameters in three different common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) populations using a standardized sampling protocol. Thereafter, space use models and cross-evaluations among populations were run to infer local processes and estimate the importance of biotic parameters, biotic interactions, sex, and age. Biotic parameters explained more variation than abiotic parameters, and intraspecific interactions significantly predicted the spatial distribution. Significant differences among populations in the relationship between abiotic parameters and lizard distribution, and the greater model transferability within populations than between populations are in line with effects predicted by local adaptation and/or phenotypic plasticity. These results underline the importance of including biotic parameters and biotic interactions in space use models at the population level. There were significant differences in space use between sexes, and between adults and yearlings, the latter showing no association with the measured parameters. Consequently, predictive habitat models at the population level taking into account different sexes and age classes are required to understand a specie`s ecological requirements and to allow for precise conservation strategies. Our study therefore stresses that future predictive habitat models at the population level and their transferability should take these parameters into account.
Penalver-Alcaraz, M. & Romero-Diaz, C. & Fitze, P.S. (2015) -
Penloup, A. (1993) -
Pentland, G.H. (1906) -
Peracca, M.G. (1894) -
Peracca, M.G. (1903) -
Peracca, M.G. (1905) -
Peracca, M.G. (1917) -
Percsy, C. (2000) -
Pereira, A. & Perera, A. & Jorge, F. & Harris, D.J. (2014) -
Pereira, A. & Xavier, R. & Perera, A. & Salvi, D. & Harris, D.J. (2019) -
DNA metabarcoding is a fast and simple alternative to traditional microscopy methods, which have been the main tool for identification of prey in dietary studies of lizards. In this study, we applied a metabarcoding approach based on COI and 16S rRNA amplicons to assess diet partitioning and feeding strategies in three syntopic lizards from Taza, Morocco: Scelarcis perspicillata chabanaudi, Scelarcis perspicillata pellegrini and Podarcis vaucheri. In order to avoid competition, these lizards are expected to consume different prey species because they occupy distinct trophic niches, use different foraging strategies and express different dorsal pigmentation patterns. Given the spotted pattern of S. p. chabanaudi, we hypothesize a sit-and-wait foraging strategy with a less diverse diet and a higher consumption of mobile prey relative to the striped S. p. pellegrini and P. vaucheri which, as potential active foragers, are expected to have a higher diet diversity. Previous diet assessments using microscopy on faecal remains seem to contradict these expectations. Our results show that, as expected, the diet of S. p. chabanaudi is less diverse than the diet of S. p. pellegrini. Regarding P. vaucheri, our dietary data are consistent with the hypothesis that this species behaves as an active forager, owing to its high niche overlap with S. p. pellegrini. Advantages and limitations of molecular barcoding compared with the microscopy approach to the analysis of lizard diets are discussed.
Pereira, A.C.V. (2022) -
Quantifying the biodiversity requires integration of various branches of biology, from evolution to the ecology and conservation of endangered species. The definition of species continues to be the subject of great controversy – using only morphological characters means that “cryptic species” will be over- looked, but an overemphasis on molecular distinction may lead to an overestimation of species numbers. In an attempt to address this, the idea of complementing molecular analyses with morphological observations and ecological modelling is beginning to be accepted in an “integrative taxonomy” approach. Mountain systems are rich in biodiversity and endemism, often with little gene flowdue to their isolation by intermediate habitats whose characteristics differ significantly such that they may be unsuitable for montane species. North Africa, despite being an extremely rich region not only in biodiversity, but also in geological history, is a poorly studied region when compared to Southern Europe, despite both being part of the Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot. Therefore, the main objective of the present work was to contribute to an increase in the knowledge of these two genera within North Africa. Fieldwork in North Africa was carried out to increase understanding of the distribution of these montane forms. An emphasis was made regarding Quedenfeldtia, and in the field morphological assessments were made, while in the laboratory additional DNA sequence data was collected and combined with previously published works. Environmental variables were compared to known distributions to better assess the potential factors which limit the species ranges. For Atlantolacerta, new localities were reported, and a new genetic lineage was identified highlighting the need for further fieldwork to fully understand the number of potential species within this complex. Regarding Quedenfeldtia, the situation in one species Quedenfeldtia moerens is now relatively clear: there are distinct forms in the northern and southern parts of the range, which are highly distinct with mitochondrial DNA markers, and which show strong differences also with the 4 nuclear DNA markers employed. While these genetically distinct lineages are morphologically very similar, some diagnostic characters can be identified so that these should be considered distinct species with non-overlapping ranges. The situation in the other species, Quedenfeldtia trachyblepharus, remains more complex. While 4 lineages can be identified using mitochondrial markers, these are less distinct with the nuclear markers, and diagnostic characters were not evident from the morphological analyses. The range of one of these lineages was greatly extended through the additional fieldwork carried out during this thesis. While it seems possible that 4 species could be recognized within the Quedenfeldtia trachyblepharus complex, more fieldwork is still needed to better delimit the ranges, and possibly new molecular approaches using for example next generation sequencing methods may be needed to confirm how distinct the known lineages are to decide what taxonomic changes are needed.
Pereira, C. & Couto, A. & Luis, C. & Costa, D. & Mourao, S. & Pinho, C. (2013) -
Background: Wall lizards of genus Podarcis are abundant and conspicuous reptiles inhabiting Europe and North Africa. In recent years, they have become a popular lizard model for phylogeographical and evolutionary ecology studies. However a lack of suitable nuclear markers currently presents a limitation on analyses of molecular evolution within this genus. We address this limitation by developing twenty-one new primer pairs for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and sequencing of anonymous sequence markers in Podarcis vaucheri and performed an assay of their cross-amplification and polymorphism levels in two closely- (P. bocagei and P. liolepis) and two distantly-related (P. muralis and P. tiliguerta) congeners. Findings: Cross-amplification and sequencing was straightforward among members of the Iberian and North-African group within genus Podarcis (which includes P. vaucheri), and somewhat less successful in species belonging to other groups (one and four loci out of 21 failed to amplify in P. muralis and P. tiliguerta, respectively, and overall success rates were lower). Nucleotide diversity for the five species examined ranged from 0.35% to 3.5%, with an average of 1.5% across all loci. Insertion and deletion polymorphisms were found in all but three loci. Conclusions: Given the high cross-amplification rates, these markers constitute a valuable addition to set of genomic resources available for Podarcis, especially in studies dealing with phylogenetics, species delimitation, population genetics and phylogeography.
Pereira, R. (2005) -
Pereleshin, S.D. & Terentjev, P.V. (1963) -
Perera, A. (1999) -
Perera, A. (2002) -
Perera, A. (2005) -
Perera, A. (2009) -
Perera, A. (2015) -
Perera, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2004) -
Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. (2008) -
Comparative phylogeography in Europe has historically focused on the role of southern regions, especially the Iberian Peninsula, Italy and the Balkans, as “refugia” for biodiversity during the last glacial periods. Recent assessments of the Iberian Peninsula have highlighted two new important aspects - the existence of “refugia within refugia” and the porous nature of geological barriers such as the Strait of Gibraltar- that can help to explain the distribution patterns of some species. We analyze the phylogeographic patterns of the ocellated lizards (Lacerta/Timon) from the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa, using both new and published data, and we compare it to recently observed patterns in other lacertids such as Acanthodactylus or Podarcis. The patterns obtained will be compared to other reptiles from the region. High levels of cryptic diversity exist in almost all species. Some tentative biogeographic patterns for North Africa will be postulated, although more data from other species will be needed to support these hypotheses.
Perera, A. & Harris, D.J. (2010) -
The ocellated lizards in the Timon lepidus/tangitanus/pater complex include the largest lacertids living in continental Europe and North Africa. Long considered a single species (T. pater), the division of the North African ocellated lizards into two species, T. pater in Tunisia and Algeria, and T. tangitanus in Morocco, is now accepted. In this study we investigated the patterns of genetic diversity in T. tangitanus and T. pater across North Africa. We analysed 12s rRNA and 16s r RNA mtDNA fragments of 26 new samples plus 19 sequences from previous studies, using parsimony, likelihood and Bayesian approaches. Our results confirm the two North African species as well-defined entities. Within T. tangitanus from Morocco, three genetically divergent lineages with geographic congruence were uncovered; one in the north, another widely spread across Central Morocco and one in the High Atlas and farther south. A high level of divergence among the Moroccan lineages suggests the split occurred just after the divergence between T. tangitanus and T. pater. Similar patterns have been found in other species, although more studies are needed to understand the biogeographical events shaping the complex diversity in this region.
Perera, A. & Maia, J.P.M.C. & Jorge, F. & Harris, D.J. (2012) -
The development of molecular methods is becoming a promising field in the analysis of parasite fauna in wildlife species. This is especially useful in the case of parasite species where developmental larval stages are difficult to assess using standard methods. In this study we screened for the presence of parasitic nematodes infecting lacertid lizards from the Iberian Peninsula and Balearic islands using nematode-specific 18S ribosomal RNA gene primers on host tissue samples. Sequencing of positive samples revealed the presence of different genera of nematodes. The detection of Strongyloides, a monoxenous genus reported for the first time in Podarcis lilfordi is probably the result of the amplification of larval stages present in the host circulatory system. Two spirurid nematodes, Synhimantus and a new unidentified clade, were also found, suggesting that reptiles might be paratenic hosts of several spirurid species. This study demonstrates the benefits of using specific molecular markers on tissue samples to identify infecting larval stages of nematodes, otherwise difficult to assess using traditional screening methods.
Perera, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2002) -
The ecological characteristics of three coastal islets of Menorca (Balearic Islands) were compared, as well as reproductive variables of their Balearic Lizard populations. Islets under analysis, Aire (Illa de l`Aire), Rey (Illa del Rei) and Colom (Illa d`en Colom), showed differences in trophic availability, human and predator presence, surface and geological age. Population density and female body size were different in the three populations. Howeevr, even under different selective pressures, populations didn`t show differences in clutch size, eggs size and mass, or reproductive effort. Wefound a lengthy reproductive period (May to July) and multiple cutches (2 annual clutches). Three islets had a mean clutch size of 2.12 ± 0.13 eggs (ranging between one and four eggs per clutch). We did not detect a relation between clutch size and female body size. We saw a elationship between length or mass, and the clutch size.
Perera, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2004) -
Perera, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2006) -
Perera, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2007) -
Perera, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. (2006) -
We examined the diet of Lacerta perspicillata in populations from different localities, thus providing the first quantiative data on the diet of this species. Five continental populations in Morocco located at different altitudes and an introduced insular population were analysed during April. Our results confirm that L. perspicillata is an insectivorous species and those found at medium altitudes with comparable ecological conditions in Morocco have a similar diet. In Taza, however, both sympatric L. perspicillata forms have different diets. The most varied diets were observed at high altitude and in insular populations. Local diet variability is probably more related to different ecological conditions and, consequently, changing trophic availability than to lizard body size or other morphological or behavioural constraints. Further studies, including studies on trophic availability and seasonal variation, could confirm our preliminary results on local differences in the dietary habits of this species and the potential role of insularity.
Perera, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Cortázar, G. (2001) -
Perera, A. & Vasconcelos, R. & Harris, D.J. & Brown, R.P. & Carretero, M.A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2007) -
Lacerta perspicillata is a north-west African lacertid lizard that shows considerable intraspecific variation, with three subspecies described on the basis of colour pattern and body size. Recent observations of a population containing two morphological forms and more than one deep genetic lineage, as well as an apparent lack of concordance between forms and genetic lineages, suggest that the complexity is greater than previously thought. To analyse and quantify this variation, we studied the variability within this species at two levels: (1) external morphology (multivariate analysis of scalation, body dimensions, and colour pattern) and (2) mtDNA (sequencing and singlestrand confirmation polymorphism analysis). Fifty-two individuals were studied at Taza, northern Morocco. Two morphological groupings (ostensibly representing two previously described subspecies) and two deep mtDNA lineages were detected at this site, with complete correspondence between the two. This, together with an apparent lack of hybrids, would normally support respective full species recognition. However, analysis of 98 individuals from other populations demonstrated that the situation is highly complex with the same genetic lineages having reversed morphotypes in other areas, making such a designation difficult. Across the other studied populations, we found no support for any of the currently recognized subspecies. The lack of congruence between mtDNA lineages and morphometric patterns (in some cases) and the morphological similarity among lizards from different lineages suggest ecophenotypic convergence or multiple introgressive hybridization. The study highlights the tremendous complexity that may exist within a taxon and the inadequacy of older alpha-taxonomy based designations in describing it.
Perez de Ana, J.M. (2014) -
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. (2014) -
Lacertid lizards exhibit striking and highly variable ornamental colourations that have long attracted the attention of biologists, but recent studies have tended to downplay their potential role as communicative signals. The first aim of this thesis has been to study colour perception in lacertid lizards, including the possibility that they may be able to perceive the near ultraviolet portion of the electromagnetic spectrum (UVA). Based on this information, I conducted an in–depth study of lacertid colouration patterns, their evolution, and their role in relation to crypsis and communication. Results indicate that lacertids have a tetrachromatic colour vision system, with a cone receptor that is sensitive to UVA light. Colour perception in lacertids therefore extends over the 300–700 nm range of wavelengths. Using objective techniques for colour determination and analysis, I found that lacertid colourations are more variable and complex than the human eye reveals. Based on a phylogeny of lacertids, I used methods of character reconstruction for tracing the evolution of the main lacertid colour characters and I have proposed what was the colour pattern of the ancestral lacertid (which was formed by brown dorsal colouration, white ventral colouration and ultraviolet eyespots). Throughout their evolution, some linages of Lacertidae acquired new chromatic characters (especially in the Euroasiatic clade Lacertini), while other linages lost or simplified some of their colour patches (especially in the African clade Eremiadini). Spectrophotometric results on present species and historical analyses force us to rethink and reanalyse many of the conclusions arrived at in previous studies of lacertid colouration. Conspicuous colourations of lacertids seem to fit assumptions about the design of animal signals. Namely, they contain information about individual quality and their location in the lizards’ ventral and ventrolateral surfaces makes them especially detectable for their primary receivers.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Bellati, A. & Pellitteri-Roa, D. & Font, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2019) -
Colour polymorphic animals offer useful models to study the evolution of polymorphisms and studies with colour polymorphic lizards have contributed many advances in this field. Unfortunately, few studies address basic questions such as how observers (e.g. conspecifics) perceive the polymorphism or whether there is chromatic variability among evolutionary lineages or distant geographic areas within a species’ range. The common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) shows a striking colour polymorphism in its ventral surface, presenting up to five alternative colour morphs, that is white, yellow and orange/red (depending on the lineage), and two intermediate mosaic morphs: white-orange and yellow-orange. Here we compare this polymorphism in two geographically distant areas, the Po valley (Northern Italy) and the Eastern Pyrenees (Iberian Peninsula), corresponding to separate phylogeographic lineages. Using objective techniques of colour measurement and lizard vision models, we examine the chromatic differences between these two polymorphic lineages. We also search for chromatic differences in other colour traits present in P. muralis: the cryptic dorsal coloration and the ultraviolet-blue spots of the outer ventral scales (UV-blue OVS) used for intraspecific communication. Although we detected significant differences among lineages in colour variables, the main variation was found between the alternative ventral colour morphs. The most striking inter-lineage divergence was between the orange Pyrenean morph and the red Italian morph, mainly caused by achromatic (but not chromatic) differences. In addition, although the UV-blue OVS show strong chromatic and achromatic variation between lineages, the dorsal coloration shows the smallest degree of variation, and mainly between localities rather than lineages. Overall, the ventral colour pattern of P. muralis is shared by at least two geographically and phylogenetically distant lineages. Nevertheless, body coloration also shows signs of historical divergence (Pyrenean orange vs. Italian red) and local adaptation (mainly in the dorsal pattern).
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Bellati, A. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Carretero, M.A. & Fasola, M. (2014) -
Population polychromatism is particularly common in lizards, and much effort has been devoted to study the evolution of this phenomenon. Recently, some lacertid species, which often show population polymorphic ventral colorations, have attracted much attention. Podarcis muralis show a long‐wavelength based ventral coloration, resulting in several alternative colour morphs: white, yellow and orange, as well as the white‐orange and yellow‐orange rare intermediate morphs. Here we performed an objective spectrophotometrical analysis with the aim to compare an Iberian (i.e. Eastern Pyrenees) and an Italian (i.e. Po Plain) polychromatic populations. Although the appearance of P. muralis coloration is similar in both populations, surprisingly we found a wide level of chromatic differences in the ventral colour morphs, as well as in the ultraviolet (UV) spots located on the outer ventral scales and the brown dorsal coloration. Assuming that different colour surfaces evolve under different selective regimes, we discuss some hypotheses which may account for these spectral differences. Thus, as the variation in the dorsal coloration is mainly explained by crypsis (i.e. background colour matching), the observed variation may be caused by chromatic differences in the natural backgrounds. Differences in chromatic properties of UV spots may be caused by different intensities of intrasexual selection. Finally, population chromatic differences within ventral morphs may be caused by ecological differences between populations, different intersexual selective intensities, different evolutionary histories, or more probably a combination of some of these factors.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carazo, P. & Font, E. (2014) -
Chromatic signals result from the differential absorption of light by chemical compounds (pigment-based colours) and/or from differential scattering of light by integument nanostructures (structural colours). Both structural and pigment-based colours can be costly to produce, maintain and display, and have been shown to convey information about a variety of individual quality traits. Male wall lizards, Podarcis muralis, display conspicuously coloured ventral and lateral patches during ritualized inter- and intrasexual displays: ventral colours (perceived as orange, yellow or white by humans) are pigment based, while the ultraviolet (UV)-blue of the outer ventral scales (OVS), located along the flanks, is structurally produced. We used spectrophotometric data from 372 adult males to examine, considering the entire visual spectrum of lizards, whether ventral and OVS colour variables can predict male quality. Results indicate that the hue and UV chroma of OVS are good predictors of fighting ability (size-independent bite force) and body condition, respectively. This suggests that structural colour patches are condition dependent and function as complex multicomponent signals in this species. In contrast, ventral coloration apparently does not function as a male quality indicator. We suggest that ventral and lateral colour patches may be social signals with different information content, possibly aimed at different receivers.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carmen, M. del & Custodio, G. & Sancho Pérez, V. & Garcia Ruiz, I. & Ábalos Álvarez, J. & Font, E. (2014) -
Evolution in islands and islets often leads to changes in chromatic characters of animals. In many cases, the result of these changes is an extravagant pattern, the loss of some chromatic character and/or the loss of its function, or the fixation of rare phenotypes. These changes are often explained by historical events as well as by several selective processes. The coloration of Podarcis lizards provides many examples of insularity driving changes in coloration. Podarcis liolepis atrata, an insular clade that inhabits the Columbretes archipelago, (a group of small volcanic islets Mediterranean coast) shows some differences respect to the general pattern found in continental P. liolepis populations. However, no study has addressed these differences objectively (i.e. using reflectance spectrophotometry techniques). Here, we compare the coloration of P. liolepis atrata with those shown by a continental population of P. liolepis liolepis (Penyagolosa massif; Iberian System), focusing on male coloration. Although data from other populations may be necessary for understanding the evolution of P. liolepis coloration, our spectral analyses reveal chromatic differences in most lizard body surfaces: the dorsal cryptic coloration, the longwavelength based belly and throat, and the ultraviolet (UV) patches found on the outer ventral scales (OVS). Overall, P. liolepis atrata (mainly dorsal and ventral surfaces) are darker than P. liolepis liolepis. This is probably due to a general increase in melanin deposition, a common phenomenon in insular evolution. Also dorsal and ventral coloration are more chromatically pure and short‐wavelength biased in P. liolepis liolepis than in P. liolepis atrata. The colour of throat and belly varies in the same way between populations. Although the UV patches found in OVS are the less variable colour character in this species (probably because they evolve under a strong social selection), we found a highly significant difference in hue, the OVS of male P. liolepis liolepis being more short‐wavelength biased than those of P. liolepis atrata. The available evidence suggests that the hue of UV patches is related to individual quality signalling. Thus, differences in this variable may indicate differences in the intrasexual selection strength.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carretero, M.A. (2018) -
The study of polymorphic organisms in which sexual selection strongly drives the maintenance of the polymorphism often ignores the environmental context. However, natural selection is also crucial, often interacting with sexual selection. While most evidence suggests that sexual selection underlies the maintenance of the colour polymorphism shown by the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, involving up to five sympatric morphs (white -W-, yellow -Y-, orange -O-, white-orange -WO- and yellow-orange -YO), recent results using realised niche models suggest morph distribution at a geographical scale is constrained by climate. The Y and YO morphs occupy a narrow space within the niche of the other morphs, and local frequencies of W, WO and O morphs are environmentally dependent, with O and WO showing higher local frequencies in the most humid habitats. We hypothesised that morphs may behaviourally compensate for these differences at a microhabitat scale. Here, we tested this hypothesis collecting field microhabitat data from representative natural populations. Results highlighted that O lizards are partially segregated in microhabitat relative to the other morphs, tending to occupy more humid (vegetated, close to water) sites, and suggesting a physiological constraint. In contrast, the other morphs do not differ in microhabitat use, suggesting that the ecological restriction of Y and YO morphs derives from an indirect relationship between climate and population parameters (sex ratio, density) crucial for social selection, eventually involving alternative behavioural strategies.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carretero, M.A. & Font, E. (2014) -
The conspicuousness of animal coloration is a relative parameter, which depends on the visual system of the receiver and the environmental context in where they are viewed. The general prediction is that colour signals must evolve to show those chromatic properties that maximize their conspicuousness to primary receivers in their own visual ecosystem. In the ventrally polychromatic (i.e. orange, yellow and white) lacertid Podarcis muralis, the use of visual modelling techniques has demonstrated that the different morphs combined with the ultraviolet (UV) ventrolateral spots differ in their conspicuousness; being males sorted in order of conspicuousness as orange, yellow and white. Although these dissimilarities suggest different signal efficacy for each morph (i.e. detectability, discriminability and/or memorability of the ventral coloration and the UV spots), they may be compensated or altered behaviourally. We quantified the degree of exposure of the lizard ventrolateral and ventral coloration in the field with the aim to confirm that the differences in chromatic contrast may actually result in differences in conspicuousness. We used an exposure classification based on four lizard postures, from a posture in which the ventral surface is completely hidden (posture 1; e.g. when lizards thermoregulate) to a posture in which the exhibition of the conspicuous colour patches is maximized (posture 4; when lizards extend their forelegs and elevate the head, showing the ventrolateral and ventral patches). Controlling for sex, age (categorically assigned by size, body proportions and colour pattern development), colour morph and substrate (because conspicuousness also depend on the chromatic properties of the background in which a colour pattern is displayed), results did not reveal differences in the exhibition of ventral coloration among morphs. Therefore, the different degrees of conspicuousness caused by chromatic contrasts are not attenuated (nor increased) behaviourally in any morph, validating our hypothesis and confirming that the alternative colour morphs incur in different costs and benefits due their detectability by primary receivers of colour signals and other unintended observers (i.e. competitors, predators, prey).
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carretero, M.A. & Font, E. (2016) -
Selection for signal efficacy (detectability) is an important factor driving the evolution of chromatic signals. Communication theory predicts that colour signals should evolve to show those properties that maximize their conspicuousness to receivers in their own visual environment. In the ventrally polymorphic lizard Podarcis muralis, visual modelling has shown morph-specific differences in chromatic conspicuousness (orange > yellow > white). Although this suggests that morphs may incur different detectability costs, the differences in conspicuousness could be compensated behaviourally if individuals of the more conspicuous morphs adopted postures that made their colour patches less visible. We quantified the degree of exposure of the lizard ventral and ventrolateral coloration in the field to investigate the relationship between body posture and colour morph. We used a classification based on four lizard postures, from ventral surface completely hidden to full exposure of the ventral and ventrolateral colour patches (when lizards extend their forelegs and raise the head). As these postures may have consequences for thermoregulation, we also recorded substrate and lizard body temperatures using a thermographic camera. Results did not reveal differences among morphs in the frequency with which they adopt postures that expose their colour patches. In contrast, we found a strong relationship between body temperature and lizard posture. Overall, our results support the view that, regardless of colour morph, perching wall lizards adopt the elevated postures that maximize exposure of their ventral colour patches only when their body temperature is high enough to allow for an efficient predator avoidance response.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Carretero, M.A. & Font, E. (2017) -
Sexual selection is one of the main processes involved in the emergence and maintenance of heritable colour polymorphisms in a variety of taxa. Here we test whether the intensity of sexual selection, estimated from population sex ratio, predicts morph diversity in Podarcis muralis, a colour polymorphic lizard with discrete white, yellow, orange, white-orange, and yellow-orange male and female phenotypes (i.e. morphs). In a sample of 116 Pyrenean populations and 5421 lizards, sex ratios (m/f) vary from 0.29 to 2.5, with the number of morphs for each sex ranging from 2 to 5. Male-biased sex ratios are associated with increased morph diversity as measured with Shannon`s diversity index. The main factor accounting for this relationship is male morph richness (i.e. the number of morphs). In contrast, female morph diversity is not related to sex ratio. These results suggest a relationship between the intensity of male intrasexual competition and male morph diversity. While other selective forces may interact with sexual selection in maintaining the colour polymorphisms in P. muralis, this evidence suggests a complex evolutionary scenario possibly involving frequency-dependent selection of alternative reproductive tactics and/or complex balancing selection.
Pérez i de lanuza, G. & Domènech-Garcia, M. & Carretero, M.A. & Font, E. (2016) -
Lacertids show three types of conspicuous lateral colour patches (i.e. ultraviolet-blue, ultraviolet- green, and ultraviolet-yellow), that appear repeatedly as alternative phenotypes across the phylogeny of this lizard family. Theory predicts that chromatic signals have evolved to be more conspicuous in their own visual ecosystem. Thus, there should be a relationship between a species’ habitat and the type of conspicuous coloration it shows, considering all observers that might exploit these conspicuous colour patches (i.e. conspecifics, predators). In this work we tested if three sympatric species, Psammodromus algirus, P. edwardsianus, and Acanthodactylus erythrurus (which show the three alternative phenotypes), (1) present differences in conspicuousness, and (2) are segregated by habitat (i.e. light spectral quality, openness, and available refuges). We hypothesized a relationship between the degree of conspicuousness and microhabitat selection, with the most conspicuous species occupying the most vegetated and refuge-rich habitats, and the less conspicuous species occupying more open habitats with less refuges. Our results confirmed our initial hypothesis, and suggest that lizards with the most conspicuous colorations select those microhabitats in which they are less vulnerable to visual predators. These results agree with the idea of a direct relationship between habitat and colour signal design.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. (2006) -
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. (2007) -
The evolutionary significance of lacertid colourations is relatively unexplored. However, several studies have demonstrated signalling by means of bright green colouration in Swedish Lacerta agilis males during the breeding season. Unfortunately, most of these studies have been based on human colour perception that differs in several ways from that of lizard. An important difference between human and lizard colour vision is the presence of an ultraviolet (UV) sensitive cone in lizards. The available evidence suggests that male sand lizards colorations do not reflect UV wavelengths, at least in Swedish populations. However, this study, based on objective (spectrophotometric) measures of Pyrenean L. agilis, revealed a secondary reflectance peak in the UV in male green colouration. This secondary peak increases sexual dichromatism and male conspicuousness. Moreover, it could have a social signalling function as do similar UV reflecting patches in other lizard species.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. (2010) -
Understanding the evolution of conspicuous colour patterns has been a major challenge in evolutionary biology since darwin’s formulation of naztural and sexual selection 150 years ago. A striking case of conspicuous colouration is the structural blue colour found in lizards belonging to several families, including lacertids (Lacertidae). Blue colouration can be restricted to discrete patches, as those found in the flanks or head of many lacertids, or can extend over large areas of the integument as in several insular populations of Lacertini. Recent research has shown that the blue flank and head patches of many lavcertids have their peak of reflectance in the ultravolet (UV) range. It has been suggestes that these UV-blue patches may be part of a private (i.e. available only to receptors with UV vision) communication system. In contrast, nothing is known about the spectral characteristics of those species in which all or large portions of the body surface are blue. Using objective methods of colour measurement and analysis, we studies the spectral characteristics of blue colouration in Podarcis lilfordi kuligae and compared them with those from other blue lacertids. The ventral surface and flank patches of P. lilfordi kuligae are both UV-blue, but their spectral shape is strikingly different, possibly reflecting different underlying selewctive pressures and colour production mechanisms. To our knowledge, this is the first recorded case of polychromatism in the UV part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Our results show that a wide range of spectrally different colouration belie human-perceived blues in lacertids. We analyse visual interactions among lacertid colours and habitat natural backgrounds and propose some hypothesis for the evolution of lizard blue and UV-blue colouration.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. (2014) -
Ultraviolet (UV) vision and UV colour patches have been reported in a wide range of taxa and are increasingly appreciated as an integral part of vertebrate visual perception and communication systems. Previous studies with Lacertidae, a lizard family with diverse and complex coloration, have revealed the existence of UV-reflecting patches that may function as social signals. However, confirmation of the signalling role of UV coloration requires demonstrating that the lizards are capable of vision in the UV waveband. Here we use a multidisciplinary approach to characterize the visual sensitivity of a diverse sample of lacertid species. Spectral transmission measurements of the ocular media show that wavelengths down to 300 nm are transmitted in all the species sampled. Four retinal oil droplet types can be identified in the lacertid retina. Two types are pigmented and two are colourless. Fluorescence microscopy reveals that a type of colourless droplet is UV-transmitting and may thus be associated with UV-sensitive cones. DNA sequencing shows that lacertids have a functional SWS1 opsin, very similar at 13 critical sites to that in the presumed ancestral vertebrate (which was UV-sensitive) and other UV-sensitive lizards. Finally, males of Podarcis muralis are capable of discriminating between two views of the same stimulus that differ only in the presence/absence of UV radiance. Taken together, these results provide convergent evidence of UV vision in lacertids, very likely by means of an independent photopigment. Moreover, the presence of four oil droplet types suggests that lacertids have a four-cone colour vision system.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. (2015) -
In polychromatic species, differences in conspicuousness among alternative color morphs may affect the costs and benefits relating to signal detectability by primary receivers and unintended observers. Using visual modeling, we studied the conspicuousness of the body coloration in a ventrally polychromatic population of common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis). This species shows a complex color pattern that combines brown dorsal coloration, long-wavelength–biased ventral coloration, and ventrolateral ultraviolet (UV)-blue patches that are used to signal male quality. Considering simultaneously the visual system of P. muralis and lizard predators, we quantified the chromatic and achromatic (intensity) contrasts of each body region viewed against natural backgrounds. We also quantified the internal contrast generated by pairs of adjacent color patches on the lizards’ body surface. We found that, in some cases, color patches used for signaling are better tuned to conspecifics than to predators, and are more conspicuous in males than in females. The UV-blue patches viewed against the long-wavelength–biased ventral coloration provide the most conspicuous color combination, suggesting that ventral colors may act as an amplifier and highlighting the relevance of color pattern complexity. In contrast, the dorsal coloration is the most cryptic coloration. The color morphs differ in conspicuousness, probably resulting in differences in signal efficacy as well as in costs caused by predator detection. The orange morph is the most chromatically conspicuous to conspecifics and predators, whereas the white morph shows the least chromatic conspicuousness, suggesting that the trade-off between detection by primary receivers and predators may be morph-dependent.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. (2016) -
Iridescence is a visual property of those surfaces that change in colour with viewing angle. Iridescence has been rarely reported in reptiles, but some snakes and lizards show this type of coloration. Here we study the effect of different angles of light incidence and observation on the spectrophotometrically assessed reflectance of dorsal coloration in the lizard Podarcis muralis. The results demonstrate clear angle dependence of several colour parameters. In particular, different angles of light incidence and observation result in changes in hue of more than 30 nm. This suggests that lizard dorsal coloration may be perceived, depending on viewing geometry, as being of different colours by a wide range of potential observers. Functional implications of iridescence in dorsal coloration are discussed.
Many animals display complex colour patterns that comprise several adjacent, often contrasting colour patches. Combining patches of complementary colours increases the overall conspicuousness of the complex pattern, enhancing signal detection. Therefore, selection for conspicuousness may act not only on the design of single colour patches, but also on their combination. Contrasting long- and short-wavelength colour patches are located on the ventral and lateral surfaces of many lacertid lizards. As the combination of long- and short-wavelength-based colours generates local chromatic contrast, we hypothesized that selection may favour the co-occurrence of lateral and ventral contrasting patches, resulting in complex colour patterns that maximize the overall conspicuousness of the signal. To test this hypothesis we performed a comparative phylogenetic study using a categorical colour classification based on spectral data and descriptive information on lacertid coloration collected from the literature. Our results demonstrate that conspicuous ventral (long wavelength-based) and lateral (short wavelength-based) colour patches co-occur throughout the lacertid phylogeny more often than expected by chance, especially in the subfamily Lacertini. These results suggest that selection promotes the evolution of the complex pattern rather than the acquisition of a single conspicuous colour patch, possibly due to the increased conspicuousness caused by the combination of colours with contrasting spectral properties.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. & Carazo, P. (2013) -
Color polymorphisms are common in lizards, which provide an excellent model system to study their evolution and adaptive function. The lacertid genus Podarcis is particularly interesting because it comprises several polymorphic species. Previous studies with lacertid lizards have tried to explain the maintenance of color polymorphisms by correlational selection between color morphs and several phenotypic traits. Particular attention has been paid to their putative role as signals reflecting alternative reproductive strategies under frequency-dependent selection, but the relationship between mating patterns and color polymorphism has not been previously considered. In this study, we use longitudinal behavioral data obtained during six consecutive breeding seasons (2006–2011) in a free-ranging polymorphic population of Podarcis muralis lizards to examine the hypothesis that lizards mate assortatively by color. We provide spectrophotometric data that confirm the existence of discrete color morphs and show that morphs are ontogenetically stable once they develop fully in sexually mature individuals. We also present data on the year-to-year variation of relative morph frequencies. Finally, we provide evidence that, over a 6-year period, homomorphic male–female pairs in the wild were significantly more common than heteromorphic pairs. Taken together, our results suggest that color assortative mating may be involved in the maintenance of discrete color morphs in this and other lacertid species.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2013) -
Natural and sexual selection interact in the design of animal colourations. Lizards often show their conspicuous colourations in relatively concealed body surfaces, such as the throat, belly or ventrolateral surfaces, while dorsally colours are less striking and less sexually dichromatic. In lacertids, the design of dorsal colourations has traditionally been explained by its cryptic function. If this interpretation is correct, we should expect to find differences in the dorsal colouration of lizards inhabiting ecosystems with substrates of different colours. To test this hypothesis, we used spectrophotometric techniques to obtain objective measurements of dorsal colouration from eight populations of Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) and their respective natural backgrounds (i.e. rocks). We then performed correlative analyses of the three independent variables that describe colour (i.e. brightness, chroma, and hue). Results show that, although there is little variation in the spectral parameters of dorsal colourations, there is a significant positive correlation between lizard and rock colouration in hue (r = 0.852, P = 0.007), but not in chroma (r = 0.068, P = 0,873), while the correlation involving brightness is only marginally significant (r = 0.667, P = 0.071). When we control for body size, the correlation involving hue remains strongly significant (r = 0.967, P = 0.002). These results support the general hypothesis that lacertid dorsal colouration has been selected for a cryptic function, and suggest that it is a locally adapted trait, at least in hue.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2016) -
Previous work with a colour polymorphic population of Podarcis muralis revealed that lizards pair by ventral colour, favouring same colour (i.e. homomorphic) male-female pairs. Such assortative pairing, which probably results in colour assortative mating, can have consequences for the genetic structure of the population and potentially promote speciation. The population previously studied, located in the Pyrenees, encompasses white, yellow and orange animals, as well as intermediate white-orange and yellow-orange morphs. However, other Pyrenean populations of P. muralis have less ventral colour morphs. We tested the generality of assortative colour pairing, extending our previous analyses to populations with different morph compositions and frequencies, including pentamorphic and trimorphic (i.e. white, orange and white-orange) populations. The results show that the assortative pattern of pairing is similar in all the populations analysed, and, hence, independent of morph composition and not restricted to pentamorphic populations. This suggests that assortative mating by colour is a general phenomenon for colour polymorphic populations of P. muralis, at least in the Eastern Pyrenean linage.
According to theory, intrasexual competition may drive morph diversity in species with population polymorphisms. Eastern, central and western lineages of Podarcis muralis often show population colour polymorphisms, encompassing white, orange and mixed white-orange morphs. Moreover, in many western populations, yellow and yellow-orange animals may also occur. Thus, populations differ according to morph composition, and morph frequencies. In a sample including 110 populations from the Eastern Pyrenees, we tested for a relationship exists between population morph diversity (estimated using Shannon’s diversity index) and adult sex ratio. Results show that this relationship is not significant when both sexes are pooled to estimate morph frequencies (Spearman correlation: rs = 0.13, P = 0.18). However, this relationship is significant and positive when only males are considered (rs = 0.26, P = 0.005), but not for females (rs = -0,06, P = 0.56). These results agree with the hypothesis that morph diversity is driven in part by male-male competition. Although the evidence for alternative morph-specific male reproductive strategies in P. muralis is inconclusive, our results highlight the relevance of population social and sexual selection for population colour morph composition.
Previous work with a colour polymorphic population of Podarcis muralis (Lacertidae) revealed that lizards pair by ventral colour, favouring the same colour (i.e. homomorphic) pairs. Such assortative pairing, which probably results in colour assortative mating, can have consequences for the genetic structure of the population and potentially promote speciation. The population previously studied, located in the Pyrenees, encompasses white, yellow and orange animals, as well as intermediate white–orange and yellow–orange morphs. However, other Pyrenean populations of P. muralis have less ventral colour morphs. Our aim in this study is to test the generality of the assortative colour pairing system, extending our previous analyses to populations with different morph compositions and frequencies. The results show that the assortative pattern of pairing is similar in all the populations analysed and, hence, independent of morph composition and not restricted to pentamorphic populations. This suggests that assortative pairing by colour is a general phenomenon for colour polymorphic populations of P. muralis.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. & Carretero, M.A., (2013) -
Many animal conspicuous colourations are involved in signalling processes. Contrasting colour patches often increase the conspicuousness of a colour pattern and enhance signal detection. Recent results suggest that the ventrolateral ultraviolet (UV) patches of Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) convey information about male individual quality. In contrast, the ventral long-wavelength colourations (i.e. orange, yellow and white) are not related with male quality, but may act as amplifiers of UV patches strongly increasing their detectability. As these two types of colourations are frequent among lacertids, we predict that, if the entire conspicuous colour pattern (ventrolateral or lateral UV + ventral long/medium-wavelength) is selected for signalling, these two colourations should covary throughout lacertid evolution. We performed a comparative phylogenetic study involving 141 species to test whether lateral and ventrolateral colourations (e.g. UV-blue eyespots) are correlated with ventral colourations (e.g. orange, yellow). We used descriptive information about lacertid colourations collected from the literature. However, as colour classifications based on the human visual system are intrinsically biased and may lead to incorrect conclusions, our colour classification was based on a subsample of 43 species for which spectrophotometric data were available. Our results demonstrate that the two conspicuous colourations of lacertids are related throughout their phylogeny (Pagel analysis: difference in log likelihoods = 7.34, P = 0.01). These results suggest that selection promotes the evolution of the entire complex pattern rather than the acquisition of a single conspicuous colourations), possibly due to the increased conspicuousness caused by the combination of colours with different spectral properties.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Garacia Custodio, M. del & Font, E. (2014) -
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Luna, S. & Lozano, J. (2012) -
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Sillero, N. & Carretero, M.A. (2018) -
Aim The maintenance of polymorphisms is often explained by sexual selection. However, natural selection may also constrain morphs to particular locations, causing geographical variation in morph diversity. In many well‐known polymorphic organisms in which the relevance of sexual selection on the maintenance of polymorphisms is widely supported, the role of environmental factors has been poorly studied. Here, we adopted a population‐level approach to assess the extent to which geographical variation in climate explains morph composition in a colour polymorphic lizard. We predict that rare morphs are more environmentally constrained than common morphs. Location Eastern Pyrenees, Western Europe. Taxon Podarcis muralis (Lacertidae). The species shows up to five discrete colour morphs: white (W), orange (O), white‐orange (WO), yellow (Y) and yellow‐orange (YO). Populations strongly vary in morph composition. Methods We modelled the realised niche of each morph and the whole species with Maxent, Bioclim, and Domain, considering 110 localities over a relatively small but environmentally heterogeneous area. Morph ranges were compared to identify differences among their realised niches and local morph frequencies were interpolated to detect intra‐morph geographical variations beyond the mere presence of morphs. Results Differences between morph distributions were mainly associated to temperature seasonality and annual precipitation. While W, O, and WO morphs were found along the whole environmental range of the species, Y and YO morphs were restricted to a subset of the environmental conditions suitable for the species, namely high temperature seasonality and relatively high precipitation. Local frequencies of common morphs also differ among localities, the W morph being more frequent at lower altitudes than the O and WO morphs, which are more locally abundant at higher altitudes. Main conclusions We found a remarkable geographical relationship between climate and local morph composition that suggests environmentally dependent selection acting in a different way on common and rare morphs, most likely in interaction with sexual selection.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. &Ábalos, J. & Bartolomé, A. & Font, E. (2018) -
Colour polymorphisms are thought to be maintained by complex evolutionary processes some of which require that the colours of the alternative morphs function as chromatic signals to conspecifics. Unfortunately, a key aspect of this hypothesis has rarely been studied: whether the study species perceives its own colour variation as discrete rather than continuous. The European common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) presents a striking colour polymorphism: the ventral surface of adults of both sexes may be coloured orange, white, yellow, or with a mosaic of scales combining two colours (orange-white, orange-yellow). Here we use a discrimination learning paradigm to test if P. muralis is capable of discriminating colour stimuli designed to match the ventral colours of conspecifics. We trained 20 lizards to eat from colour-coded wells bored in wooden blocks. Blocks had four colour-coded wells (orange, white, yellow, and an achromatic control), but only one contained food (mealworm larvae). After six trials, the lizards performed significantly better than expected by chance, showing a decrease in both the number of wells explored and the latency to finding the food. Using visual modelling techniques we found that, based on their spectral properties and the lizards’ cone sensitivities, the ventral colours of P. muralis correspond to discrete rather than continuous colour categories, and that colour discriminability (i.e. distance in perceptual space) varies depending on the morphs compared, which may have implications for signal detection and discrimination. These results suggest that P. muralis can discriminate hue differences matching their own ventral colour variation.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G., Font, E. & J.L. Monterde (2013) -
Sexual selection has been invoked as a major force in the evolution of secondary sexual traits, including sexually dimorphic colorations. For example, previous studies have shown that display complexity and elaborate ornamentation in lizards are associated with variables that reflect the intensity of intrasexual selection. However, these studies have relied on techniques of colour analysis based on human – rather than lizard – visual perception. Here, we use reflectance spectrophotometry and visual modelling to quantify sexual dichromatism considering the overall colour patterns of lacertids, a lizard clade in which visual signalling has traditionally been underrated. These objective methods of colour analysis reveal a large, previously unreported, degree of sexual dichromatism in lacertids. Using a comparative phylogenetic approach, we further demonstrate that sexual dichromatism is positively associated with body size dimorphism (an index of intrasexual selection), suggesting that conspicuous coloration in male lacertids has evolved to improve opponent assessment under conditions of intense male–male competition. Our findings provide the first evidence for the covariation of sexual dichromatism and sexual size dimorphism in lacertids and suggest that the prevalent role of intrasexual selection in the evolution of ornamental coloration is not restricted to the iguanian lineage, but rather may be a general trend common to many diurnal lizards.
Pérez-Cembranos, A. & León, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2016) -
Through 17 years and from a sample of 7,790 faecal pellets and 26,346 prey items, we studied the diet of the Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi in Aire Island (Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain). We analysed the diet in terms of prey frequencies, as well as by their volume and biomass contributions. The diet of the Balearic lizard was extremely variable through the years, months and areas under study. The dominance of small clumped prey, particularly ants, was confirmed. However, the main contribution by volume corresponded to beetles, with a relevant role for Diplopoda and terrestrial Isopoda during some months and at particular areas of the island. Several prey items were probably captured at the base of shrubs, under stones or inside rock crevices. Therefore, our estimations of electivity would only be reliable for epigeal and flying prey. The capacity of the Balearic lizard to include marine subsidies in its diet, such as coastal crustaceans, is noteworthy. Also, its consumption of carrion from carcasses of gulls and rabbits and leftovers from human visitors is remarkable. Juvenile conspecifics can also be a sporadic food resource, especially during the second half of summer, whereas the consumption of vegetal matter is constant for each whole year. The shifts of vegetal exploitation among areas of the island and months take place according to availability of different plant species at each area or during a given period. Thus, lizards are able to conduct a thorough monitoring of plant phenology, exploiting a large variety of plant species. Omnivory does not imply the indiscriminate inclusion of any edible food in its diet. Rather, the inclusion of several food items means the adoption of a wide range of foraging behaviours adapted to the exploitation of each food resource.
Perez-Cembranos, A. & Perez-Mellado, V. (2010) -
A more generalized diet, as well as higher plant consumption by lizards in islands with poor trophic resources, has been widely documented. From some years ago, it has been ob- served individuals of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi (Lacertidae), climbing to Carlina corym- bosa (Asteraceae) in Aire Island (Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain) and foraging on their owers during the blooming period, from early July to late August. Through focal observations, we have studied the foraging behaviour of P. lilfordi on C. corymbosa. We obtained fourteen variables, from which we de ned three groups according to the information they provide: movements and foraging strategy, use of C. corymbosa as a trophic resource and foraging behaviour of P. lilfordi on that plant species. The analysis of these variables shows that P. lilfordi is a widely forager that employs a mixed strategy of licking and pulling up Carlina owers. This behaviour is probably due to a low production and/or a dif cult availability of nectar. Some behavioural traits are similar to those observed while foraging on carcasses. We also studied, during the same period, the diet of P. lilfordi through the analysis of faecal samples. We observed that the consumption of plant ele- ments is important during July and August, and that C. corymbosa is an important resource in the areas of the island where it is present.
Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2015) -
During the blooming period of the thistle Carlina corymbosa L. (Asteraceae) on Aire Island (Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain), the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, climbs the plant and forages on its inflorescences. We studied this foraging behaviour by means of observation. We collected data on fourteen variables belonging to three groups: movements and foraging strategy, use of C. corymbosa as a trophic resource, and foraging behaviour of P. lilfordi on this plant species. Analysis of these variables shows that P. lilfordi employs a mixed strategy of licking and plucking C. corymbosa flowers, probably due to a low nectar production and/or its difficulty of access. Interestingly, some behavioural traits are similar to those observed while foraging on carcasses. We also studied the diet of P. lilfordi through analysis of faecal samples. We found that C. corymbosa is a key food resource during summer. Foraging on C. corymbosa led to consumption not only of plant elements, but also of different proportions of flying and terrestrial prey by lizards living in areas of the island with or without C. corymbosa. In this manner, the consumption of a plant species during a short period of annual activity has an unexpected influence on the overall diet of these lizards.
Even in solitary foragers, conspecifics can provide reliable information about food location. The insular lizard Podarcis lilfordi is a solitary species with high population densities that sometimes aggregate around rich food patches. Its diet includes novel and unpredictable resources, such as carcasses or plants, whose exploitation quickly became widespread among the population. We tested the use of social information by lizards through some field experiments in which they had to choose one of the two pieces of fruit. Probably due to local enhancement, lizards preferred to feed on the piece of fruit where conspecifics or lizard-shaped models were already present. Conspecifics’ behaviour, but also their mere presence, seems to be a valuable source of information to decide where to feed. Lizards also showed a strong attraction to conspecifics, even in the absence of food. Maybe the presence of a group is interpreted as an indirect cue for the presence of food. The group size was not important to females, but males had a significantly higher attraction towards groups with three conspecifics. We discuss some characteristics of P. lilfordi at Aire Island that can explain the development of the observed social foraging, as well as their possible consequences.
Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2016) -
Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2020) -
Foraging diurnal lizards are well known for their use of visual and chemical cues to detect prey. We already showed that the Balearic lizard is able to detect prey using visual and chemical cues, even from airborne odors. In this study we carried out a field experiment to test if lizards can detect prey using acoustic cues. Our results show that Podarcis lilfordi is able to detect flies trapped inside opaque cups, only using acoustic cues. To ourknowledge, this is the first known case of phonotaxis of a diurnal lizard. Thus, P. lilfordi can detect, from far away, current pollinators trapped inside floral chambers of the dead horse arum, Helicodiceros muscivorus. This is another behavioral trait displayed by the Balearic lizard during its complex interaction with the dead horse arum.
Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Alemany, I. & Bassitta, M. & Terrasa, B. & Picornell, A. & Castro, J.A. & Brown, R.P. & Ramon, C. (2020) -
Aims: To characterize the genetic and morphological diversification of the endan- gered Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi and to assess the relevance of this diversity, and how it is described, to conservation measures. Location: This study covers all the populations of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, present in its range of distribution at coastal islets of Menorca, Mallorca and Cabrera Archipelago. Methods: We analysed genetic and morphological variation across the 43 known extant populations of the Balearic lizard, using mitochondrial and nuclear markers. We examined morphometric and scalation characters using, in some cases, phyloge- netically independent contrasts. We also incorporated the study of dorsal coloration and dorsal colour pattern including the analysis of melanism in several populations. Results: We detected clear genetic divergence between Menorcan populations and populations from Mallorca and Cabrera, in both nuclear and mtDNA markers, but genetic divergence is relatively low among different insular populations within these groups. In contrast, morphological divergence was substantial both between Menorcan and remaining populations and within these groups. Morphological traits, such as dorsal coloration, body size and the number and size of scales, seemed to be linked with differences in climatic conditions between populations. In addition, some traits, as melanism, showed a strong phylogenetic signal. Main conclusions: The morphological and genetic diversity of the Balearic lizard is incongruent with the subspecies described in the classical taxonomic literature. Moreover, current populations differ not only in some genetic and morphological features, but also in several ecological and ethological characteristics, in many cases unique to one population. Based on our results, we propose abandoning the use of subspecies to describe the extraordinary morphological diversity of the Balearic liz- ard and its replacement with the concept of evolutionary significant units (ESUs). ESUs are particularly suitable to describe and recognize such diversity and, especially, to ensure the continuity of the evolutionary process.
Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Pérez-Mellado.V. (2023) -
During the last 24 years, the mutualistic interaction between the dead horse arum, Helicodiceros muscivorus, and the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, was studied on Aire Island (Balearic Islands, Spain). From a small population of a hundred plants, the dead horse arum expanded extraordinarily throughout the island, reaching the highest known densities of the species and occupying areas of the island where it was not previously present. The current abundance of plants is a direct effect of the frugivorous activity of the Balearic lizard, which is the main, if not the only, effective seed disperser of the plant on Aire Island. However, abiotic factors predominated over biotic factors in driving abundance of plants. Over the years, plant densities varied significantly depending on the aridity of the island, with higher densities recorded in drier years. Lizards’ frugivorous activity and dispersal intensity was inversely correlated with annual rainfall. We found higher dispersal intensity in years with lower rainfall. We propose that the years of lower rainfall are those in which there is a lower prey availability. In such years, lizards compensate the shortage of other trophic resources with a more intense consumption of dead horse arum fruits. The mutualistic interaction is therefore asymmetric, since there is a greater influence of the frugivorous activity of the lizards on the plants than of the plants on lizards. It is, in short, a system chronically out of balance.
Pérez-Cembranus, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Cooper, W.E. (2013) -
Cost-benefit models of escape behaviour predict how close a prey allows a predator to approach [flight initiation distance (FID)] based on cost of not fleeing (predation risk) and cost of fleeing (loss of opportunities). Models for FID have been used with some success to predict distance fled (DF). We studied effects of foraging opportunity cost of fleeing and examined differences between age-sex groups in the omnivorous Balearic Lizard, Podarcis lilfordi. Balearic lizards forage on the ground for invertebrate prey and climb the thistle Carlina corymbosa to forage on its inflorescences. We studied escape behaviour in three experimental groups, with human beings as simulated predators: lizard foraging above ground on C. corymbosa, foraging on the ground away from thistles and on the ground with cut inflorescences. Flight initiation distance was shorter for lizards with cut inflorescences than for (1) lizards above ground due to the greater risk above ground due to conspicuousness of black lizards on yellow flowers; and (2) lizards on ground away from flowers due to the cost of leaving while feeding. The only age-sex difference was slightly greater FID for adult males than subadults, presumably because larger adult males are more likely to be attacked by predators. Other potential factors affecting this difference are discussed. Experimental group and age-sex group did not interact for FID or DF. Because lizards foraging on inflorescences above ground fled to the base of the plants to refuge provided by spiny thistle leaves, their DF was shorter than in the other groups, which fled across the ground, usually without entering refuge. DF did not differ between groups on the ground or among age-sex groups. The predicted shorter DF for lizards with cut inflorescences than on ground without inflorescences did not occur. We hypothesize that the opportunity cost was small due to the abundance of blooming thistles and that DF may be less sensitive to opportunity cost than FID.
Pérez-Mellado, V. (1980) -
P. bocagei is considered a valid species, and several criteria are used for distinguish it in sympatry of P. hispanica, a closely related species. A detailed distribution map is provided for this lizard, which occurs in Galicia, León, Orense, Zamora, western slopes of the Sistema Central, and probably, the north of Portugal. P. hispanica males and females in the Sistema Central are significant larger than males and females of P. bocagei. Significant differences in size, scalation and ecology are apparent between the Sistema Central and northern populations of P. bocagei, but no taxonomic decisions are made, pending a more detailed study. The examination of the masseteric shield revealed its large size in P. bocagei and its absence in most of the P. hispanica studied. P. bocagei has a relatively robust, deep skull, probably related to his terrestriral habits, unlike P. hispanica, which has a flattened skull and, at least in the Sistema Central, is a saxicolous species. P. bocagei is very common in Galicia and is found there at altitudes between 0 and 1500 meters, but in the Sistema Central is restricted to Quercus pyrenaica forests, between 800 and 1200 meters.
Pérez-Mellado, V. (1981) -
The taconomic status of Podarcis bocagei in the Iberian Peninsula is reviewed. Since no Holotype is known, a Lectotype from the species is given. P. bocagei carbonelli ssp. n. is also described; it inhabits the western area of the Sistema Central, in particular the `Sierras` of Francia and Gata, both in Spain and the Serra da Estrela in Portugal. Finally, new localities for both subspecies are described, that together with those reported in the previous paper sum a total of 76 localities known up to date.
Pérez-Mellado, V. (1982) -
A study on taxocenosis of Lacertidae with 8 species: Lacerta lepida, Lacerta schreiberi, Lacerta montícola, Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus hispanicus, Podareis hispanica and Podareis bocagei in the western part of the Sistema Central (Iberian Península) has been carried out. Most of these behave as feeding generalists but A. erythrurus seems to specialize in mymecophagy whereas L. montícola turns out to be a «forced» sthenophage. The overlap valúes in each niche dimensión suggest that the spatial dimensión and habitat preference are the most important factors. However, segregation is produced jointly due to the interaction of the three dimensions considered which act interdependently.
Peréz-Mellado, V. (1983) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (1983) -
Perez-Mellado, V. (1983) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (1984) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (1986) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (1989) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (1992) -
Some basic aspects of the ecology of five lacertid lizards inhabiting the desert area of Tafilalet, in south-eastern Morocco, are considered: Mesalina guttulata, occupying almost exclusively the hammada habitat; Mesalina olivieri, Acanthodactylus boskianus and Acanthodactylus scutellatus found on sand and bare-ground reg; and Acanthodactylus longipes, inhabiting the sand-dune habitat, the erg. Acanthodactylus scutellatus, A. boskianus, A. longipes and M. olivieri had a bimodal diel activity pattern; in M. guttulata daily activity was centred on the morning hours. All species exhibit fairly precise thermoregulation with a strong relation between body and substratum temperature, particularly for species occupying softer substrata. Mesalina guttulata had a diverse diet during both seasons observed, while in the remaining species termites and ants formed the bulk of the food. The foraging behaviour, diet and ecological characteristics of Lacertidae from the Tafilalet, especially the genus Acanthodactylus, seem to be optimal for the challenging environmental conditions of this desert area. The implications of the foraging strategy of Tafilalet`s Acanthodactylus for other species of the genus are discussed.
Pérez-Mellado, V. (1997) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (1998) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (2001) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (2002) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (2004) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (2005) -
From 1999 to 2005 we studied the population of the dead horse arum, Dracunculus muscivorus (Araceae) and its relationship with the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi (Lacertidae, Squamata).
Pérez-Mellado, V. (2006) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (2008) -
Under the name of islands rather different areas are included. From very small portions of land, with only few plant species and scarce or almost absent terrestrial fauna, to extensions of thousands of square kilometres with plant and animal communities of similar complexity than those from continents. Even as it is, the limited contacts with other terrestrial areas, the random character of colonization and the isolated development of their biotic assemblages confer to islands a particular character. Island conservation poses unique challenges. Insular floras and faunas are particularly vulnerable and face several threats, some of them in common with continental areas and other peculiar to islands. In addition, islands harbour a disproportionate amount of global biodiversity, higher than the biodiversity of continental areas of similar surface and conditions. Even if islands inspired the bulk of theoretical principles of Biogeography and Conservation Biology, these disciplines frequently lack appropriate tools to approach the conservation problems of insular floras and faunas. A similar situation can be detected in relation to legal instruments. The application of conservation criteria developed for continental species is not always satisfactory. Perhaps it is the time to design particular criteria to assess the conservation status of insular biota.
Pérez-Mellado, V. (2009) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. (2013) -
The Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, is one of the key species of Menorca Biosphere Reserve. This is the only endemic terrestrial vertebrate Plio-Pleistocene, the last representative of vertebrate fauna previous to the arrival of humans. Over the past two decades since the establishment of the Biosphere Reserve, have accumulated a significant amount of knowledge on this species, both on its molecular evolution, as their demographics, characteristics of natural history, ecology, behavior and state conservation of populations Menorcan. However, some fundamental aspects of the situation of current populations are unknown and others provide amazing results from the point of view of Conservation Biology. While some traditional threats affecting the Balearic lizard seem to have disappeared or have been attenuated, new ones have emerged in recent years and old problems, which appeared to be over, have resurfaced. Human pressure on fragile populations of the Balearic lizard is manifested in many different ways and forms, as now, the main factor of uncertainty about the future of this unique species. In this paper, we review summarizes the current state of knowledge on this endemic Lacertidae, try to identify the main factors still act as threats surviving populations in coastal islets and propose some actions that would ensure the future maintenance of P. lilfordi within the Biosphere Reserve.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Alonzo Fernandez, T. & Garrido Escudero, M. & Guerra Rodriguez, C. & Ortega Diago, Z. & Villa Garcia, A. (2013) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Arano, B. & Astudillo, G. & Cejudo, D. & Garcia-Márquez, M. & Llorente, G.A. & Márquez, R. & Mateo, J.A. & Orrit, N. & Romero-Beviá, M. & López-Ju (1997) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Barbadillo, L.J. & Barahona, F. & Brown, R.P. & Corti, C. & Guerrero, F. & Lanza, B. (1993) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Bauwens, D. & Gil, M. & Guerrero, F. & Lizana, M. & Ciudad,M.J. (1991) -
We studied diet composition and prey selection in the lizard Lacerta monticola throughout its activity season. The most important prey groups in terms of numbers were Coleoptera, Diptera, Formicidae, and Araneae. Comparison of diet composition in the adult lizards with estimates of prey availability indicated that lizards exhibited precisely defined patterns of prey selection. Electivities were negative for prey < 3 mm in length and generally positive for larger prey, despite the higher relative abundance of the former group in the environment. Electivity scores for individual prey taxa were positively correlated with their length, and lizards preferentially consumed larger individuals belonging to the taxa containing smaller animals. Relative availability of the four major prey taxa fluctuated considerably throughout the year. In spite of these changes, monthly rates of consumption of Araneae and Diptera remained almost constant. Variations in monthly electivity scores were negatively correlated with relative availability of three (Coleoptera, Diptera, and Araneae) of the four major prey taxa. These results fit the predictions of prey-selection models based on nutrient constraints.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Casas, J.L. (1997) -
Here we show the role of the Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi fenni in the pollination of the sea fern Crithmum maritinum on the islet of Nitge.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Cheylan, M. & Geniez, P. & Nettmann, H.-K. & Schmidt, B. & Podloucky, R. & Sindaco, R. & Romano, A. (2009) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Cheylan, M. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2009) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Cortázar, G. & López-Vicente, M. & Perera, A. & Sillero, N. (2000) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Cortázar, G. & Perera, A. & Corti, C. (2002) -
New information on the geographical location of the population of the Balearic lizard described as Podarcis lilfordi carbonerae Pérez-Mellado & Salvador, 1988 is given. The records of the herpetological collection of the Alexander Koenig Museum of Bonn, the capture dates of specimens and three recent surveys to coastal islets of Menorca (Balearic Islands) showed that the capture locality so-called Isla Carbonera (Na Corberana) corresponds to En Carbó islet (Illot d`en Carbó), off northern Minorcan coast. New colour, design and morphometric data of lizards from En Carbó confirm the validity of the subspecies P. lilfordi carbonerae. The present day situation and conservation status of the lizard population from En Carbó are discussed.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Corti, C. (1993) -
We examined the diets of several species of Podarcis from different western Mediterranean islands. We tested the prediction of more generalized diets in lizards from poor environments. We also examined the extert and mode of herbivory in relation to arthropod diversity in the diet. Lizards from the Tuscan Archipelago, P. sicula from Menorca, and P. tiliguerta from Corsica all show a rather generalized diet. In contrast, P. lilfordi and P. pilyusensis from the Balearic Islands and, to a lesser extent, P. hispanica from Benidorm Island, appear much more stenophagous, including a high proportion of clumped prey in their diets. Plant matter is a common food item in most of the population studied, specially in Balearic lizards. A marked seasonal shift in the degree of herbivory was observed in these species where high-energy plant parts are frequently consumed during summer. In one of the Balearic Islands (Nitge), the bulk of the summer diet was formed by pollen and nectar of one particular plant species. Herbivory, consumption of clumped prey and other dietary peculiarities of insular populations of Mediterranean lizards indicate a very flexible feeding behaviour compared to mainland congenerics. This could result from a lack of predation pressure allowing high population densities to be reached in islets with poor trophic resources. Differences found in dietary characteristics among island populations can be interpreted as a consequence of different current ecological conditions, as well as historical and biogeographical differences among the islands.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. (1997) -
Tail autotomy is one of the main anti-predator mechanisms of lacertid lizards, but it has been predicted that it is only retained in its full capacity when its benefits exceed its costs (Arnold, 1988). To test this hypothesis, ease of tail shedding was examined in a number of continental and insular lacertid lizard populations, each of which showed a different shedding capacity. Tails are shed more easily in those continental and insular populations where there is a greater probability of predation. In insular populations not subjected to strong predation, the tail tends to be retained. The relationship of these findings to insular Mediterranean lizard populations and to the extinction of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi are discussed.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Corti, C. & Lo Cascio, P. & Ortega, Z. & Kletecki, E. & Tvrtkovic, N. (2008) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Corti, C. & Vidal, J.M. (2008) -
Knowledge of Balearic amphibians and reptiles is closely linked to the development of European herpetology itself. The first herpetological study of the Balearic Islands was made at the end of the 18th century and during the first decades of the 19th century. We divide herpetological explorations of the Balearic Islands into three periods: first, a general approach by local naturalists and travellers; second, scientific exploration of the archipelago by professional collectors and herpetologists from the most important European museums and universities, with studies mainly focused on systematics and taxonomy; and third, scientific description of evolutionary processes observed on islands and their relationship to emergent disciplines such as island biogeography and insular ecology. In this work, we review these most important steps in the development of herpetological knowledge of the Balearic Islands from two different and complementary approaches: the origin, personality and objectives of researchers, and the discoveries they made during more than two centuries.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Dominguez-Azabal, A. & Lluch, P. & Navarro, P. & Hernández-Estévez, J.A. & Garcia-Diez, T. & Garrido, M. (2008) -
Blood parasites can have negative effects on lizard hosts, such as testicular reduction, low levels of haemoglobine, an increase of immature erythrocytes, low levels of oxygen consumption and a significant reduction of sprint speed. Thus, blood parasites are able to produce a measurable decrease in individual fitness. Factors as host density, abundance of invertebrate vectors and the sex or body condition of hosts can affect parasitic prevalence and intensity of infestation. In this piece of work we explore the extent of prevalence and intensity of haemogregarines intraerythrocytic parasites in several populations of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi. 491 lizards from 37 different populations were studied. In average, less than 1% of erythrocytes were infected by haemogregarines, showing significant differences on the intensity of infection amongst populations under study. More than 90% of individual lizards were infected. These also showed significant differences amongst populations. In Menorca and Cabrera coastal islets, we found a significantly higher proportion of infected males than females. In Mallorca islets, bigger adult males were more prone to load blood parasites, while this effect was not detected in females. In the three groups of studied populations, Menorca, Mallorca and Cabrera, we found a significantly higher body condition of adult males than females. But body condition had no detectable effect in the intensity and prevalence of blood parasites. The prevalence, unlike the intensity, was significantly associated with lizard density. We compare our results with those of studies made with
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Galindo Villardón, M.P. (1989) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Galindo Villardón, P. (1986) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Galindo, M.P. (1986) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Garcia-Diez, T. & Herandez Estévez, J.A. & Herrero Ayuso, C. & Riere, N.R. & Catalán Barrio, I. (2013) -
The use of space of the balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi. Causal factors at Aire Island. -- during April, June and July 2004 the use of space on a study plot of 2500 m2 at the central area of Aire Island (Menorca, balearic Islands, Spain) have been studied. This area is characterized by a dense shrub cover, mainly composed by Suaeda vera, as well as large areas of rocks and a very high density of the dead horse arum, Dracunculus muscivorus. 3324 captures and recaptures from 766 lizards were obtained. The average home range size was around 138 m2 for those lizards with four or more recaptures. We did not detect significant differences in home range size between adult males and females, nor among the three months under study. The home range size of the balearic lizard is similar to those recorded for other small lacertid lizards of the Mediterranean basin. We did not find any significant correlation between body size and home range size, with only marginally significant results for adult females. Anyway, in all partial analyses on each studied month the correlation was negative, perhaps indicating the occupation of smaller but better, from the viewpoint of available resources, home ranges by larger lizards. The extent of home range overlap is a clear indication of the absence of territorial behaviour in the balearic lizard, both in males and females. While during April, we observed lower home range overlap between adult females. on the other hand, adult males showed a higher home range overlap from June, in spite of a lower number of males present at the study plot during this month. This result could indicate a higher tolerance between males after disappearance of flowering dead horse arums. the monopolizing of open inflorescences during April did not lead in a different spatial distribution of males and females in relation to plants and both sexes exhibited similar distances to dead horse arums. however, during June, within the peak of the ripening period, distances to plants were significantly shorter in adult males. We discuss the significance of a not lasting resource as the dead horse arum for space use of the balearic lizard, contrasting with patterns observed at continental populations of small lacertid lizards, where refuges and other structural elements of the habitat are more relevant to explain the spatial distribution of lizards. We propose the hypothesis that these differences are only possible because of particular conditions of microinsular environments of the Mediterranean, characterized by poor trophic resources and a low predation pressure.
Perez-Mellado, V. & Garcia-Diez, T. & Hernandez-Estevez, J.A. & Tavecchia G. (2010) -
Temporal changes in the observed adult sex-ratio might be due to differences in sur- vival or dispersal probabilities. However, in natural populations, it might also be due to an unequal detection probability due to sex-speci c behaviour. To separate these hypotheses, observations should be analysed using an analytical framework that includes the probability of detection, or re- capture, of males and females. We analysed data from an intense capture-mark-recapture study conducted during the spring 2004 at the isle of Aire (Balearic Archipelago) and investigated the demographic mechanisms underlying the observed spring sex-ratio. We used capture-recapture models to simultaneously estimate survival (/f/), proportion of transients (/p) /and the probability of recapture (/p/). We then estimated population size using open population models for individually- based data and compared these with the observed values to validate model estimates. Results indicated that males had a higher probability of recapture than females, but this was not suf cient to generate the observed sex-ratio. The proportion of transient was decreasing during the spring which suggested that sex-dependent movements, most likely linked to the availability of ephem- eral resources, were responsible for the observed difference in the number of males and females. Potential and limitations of the capture-recapture analysis and the in uence of individual hetero- geneity will be discussed.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Garcia-Diez, T. & Hernández-Estévez, J.A. & Tavecchia, G. (2015) -
Temporal changes in adult sex ratio of animal populations might be due to differences in movements, survival or detection probabilities. We used data from an intensive capture–mark–recapture study of 720 lizards at the islet of Aire (Balearic Islands, Spain) to investigate the demographic mechanisms underlying the spring uneven sex ratio. We simultaneously estimated survival (f), the proportion of transient animals (p) and the probability of recapture (p) of lizards at the study plot. We then estimated population size using open population models for individually based data and compared these with the observed values. Results indicated that males had a higher probability of recapture than females, but this was not sufficient to generate the observed male-biased sex ratio. The proportion of transient males decreased at the end of spring in parallel with the end of the blooming period of the dead horse arum, Helicodiceros muscivorus, a short-lasting food and thermoregulation resource for lizards during spring. Changes in the proportion of transients suggested that sex-dependent movements, most likely linked to a monopolising behaviour of this plant resource, were responsible for the observed difference in the number of males and females. Our results reveal how the interplay of behavioural and ecological factors explains short-term changes in population dynamics and shapes the movement patterns within the island.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Garrido, M. & Ortega, Z. & Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Mencia, A. (2014) -
Lizards and gulls cohabit in several Mediterranean islands. The yellow-legged gull, Larus michahellis, was found to prey several vertebrate species. However, precise information about the interaction between gulls and other vertebrates, particularly with lizards is still scarce. The Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, shares several coastal islets with the yellow-legged gull. Using two different sources of information, we studied the interaction of both species in Colom Island (Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain). We studied the diet of the yellow-legged gull and learnt that the Balearic lizard is not a common prey of the yellow-legged gull. On the other hand, we studied the potential predation pressure of gulls on lizards, using plasticine models of lizards. We did two different experiments from which we can conclude that yellow-legged gulls rarely attack lizards and, consequently, cannot be considered a major threat for this endemic lizard species, at least in the population under study. Finally, we obtained evidence that plasticine models can only be employed with caution to assess predation pressure of opportunistic scavengers, much as gulls are. The majority of marks on models were not the consequence of true attacks by gulls, but the result of ground exploratory behaviour of gulls in search of any edible matter. Therefore, contrary to popular belief, in the case of the yellow-legged gull, the proportion of marked models would be an indication of ground-based wandering activity, rather than a result of its predation pressure on lizards.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Gil, M.J. & Guerrero, F. & Pollo, C. & Rodriguez, E. & Marco,A. & Liana, M. (1988) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Hernández-Estévez,J.A. & Garcia-Diaz, T. & Terrasa, B. & Ramón, M.M. & Castro, J. & Picornell, A. & Martin-Vallejo, J. & Brown, R. (2008) -
he Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, is present in 43 insular populations in the Cabrera archipelago and around the coasts of Mallorca and Menorca islands (Spain). We studied lizard densities over the entire range of distribution, analyzing observed differences of density in relation to island area, habitat diversity, availability of resources, presence of predators, competitors and human disturbances. The density of the Balearic lizard varies from less than 35 to almost 8000 lizards ha-1, with an average of around 1500 lizards ha-1. In some very small islets we detected no more than 10 individuals. Using a subsample of nine coastal islets (Menorca) we did not find any significant correlation between ground arthropod biomass and lizard density. The combination of island area and its maximal altitude, its so-called biotic capacity, was also uncorrelated with lizard density. In addition, neither degree of island accessibility nor presence/absence of seagull breeding colonies, were able to explain lizard densities. Islands without ship rats (Rattus rattus) showed a significantly higher lizard density, but islands in which rat eradication programs were launched during the study period, showed lower densities than those with rats but no eradication actions. Genetic variability was significantly higher on bigger lizard populations, lacking a correlation with lizard densities. No single independent variable can explain density differences among populations under study. Our results are discussed in the light of available hypotheses on factors affecting population densities.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Marquez, R. & Martinez-Solani, I. (2008) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Marquez, R. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2009) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2009) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Ortega, F. & Martin-Garcia, S. & Perera, A. & Cortazar, G. (2000) -
An analysis of pollen grains loaded and transported by the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, at three coastal islets of Menorca (Balearic Islands, Spain) was performed. We studied 228 individual lizards from spring and summer, 1998, recording 323,986 pollen grains belonging to 35 different plant species. As a consequence of its foraging behavior, the Balearic lizard is able to load large quantities of pollen. In Aire Island pollen load was higher in adult females than males. P. lilfordi is an important pollen loader of some plant species such as Pistacia lentiscus, Crithmum maritimum, Allium ampeloprasum, Carlina corymbosa, and Pancratium maritimum. The role of P. lilfordi as the main pollinator has been previously demonstrated only for the sea fern, C. maritimum. However, results reported here indicate that the Balearic lizard can play an important role in the reproductive success of other plant species on coastal islets off the main island of Menorca.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Ortega, Z. & Alonso, T. & Guerra, C. & Villa, A. & Garrido, M. (2008) -
Coastal islets of Balearic Islands share several ecological conditions, such as the scarcity of food resources and the lack of a strong predation pressure. During spring and summer 2006, we studied the thermal ecology of two populations of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, from two different coastal islets of Menorca (Balearic Islands, Spain): Aire and Colom. In both islets and seasons, we found that P. lilfordi regulates its body temperature rather accurately, showing effectiveness values ranging between 0,8 and 1. During spring at Aire islet, the vast majority of operative temperatures (Te) were out of the optimum range (Tsel). But, nevertheless, the Balearic lizard performed an effective thermoregulation. Lizards remained active in both islets for as long as they were able to, and were only inactive in the late afternoon of summer days. We found significant differences in Te from different habitats, showing a high heterogeneity of the thermal conditions in both islets under study. This habitat heterogeneity allows an effective shuttling heliothermic behavior of lizards. Differences found between islets are notable. There is a dramatic increase of thermoregulation accuracy between seasons in Aire, markedly less pronounced in Colom. Based on our study, we foreview that wind would produce a cooling effect, that would be stronger in Aire than Colom. Hence, in Aire islet, there was a more effective thermoregulation in summer than spring. Further research needs doing in order to check the potential role of melanism and other factors in such thermoregulation differences amongst populations of the same species.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Perera, A. & Cortázar, G. (2000) -
En este trabajo presentamos el estado actual de las poblaciones de Lagartija balear, Podarcis lilfordi , en la illa den Colom. Se describen algunos rasgos de su morfolog a, se al ndose la existencia de un neto dimorfismo sexual, con machos de mayor tama o corporal que las hembras. La densidad de poblaci n es variable en distintas zonas de la isla, con densidades bajas o medias en la zona central y m s altas en las zonas costeras. El ciclo reproductor comienza hacia el mes de febrero, observ ndose una conducta de vigilancia de pareja. El tama o de puesta es notablemente reducido, con una media de dos huevos por puesta. Sin embargo, se ha observado la existencia de m s de una puesta anual. La dieta es mixta, con la inclusi n de presas animales de peque o tama o y de numerosas especies vegetales. Se discute el papel de P. lilford i como dispersor de las semillas de algunas plantas, como el endemismo menorquin Daphne rodriguezii. Las Lagartijas baleares de la illa den Colom tienen un estado de conservacion adecuado. Se discuten algunas amenazas potenciales derivadas de los usos actuales de la isla.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Perera, A. & Cortázar, G. (2003) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Pérez-Cembranos, A. (2012) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Calvo, J. & Garrido, M. (2014) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Garrido, M. & Luiselli, L. & Corti, C. (2011) -
While the use of faecal pellets is widely accepted as a primary methodological source of data for dietary studies, a recent paper advocated for the use of gut contents. This was due to the fact that faecal samples would give biased results of the diet of arthropod predators, due to a lower representation of soft-bodied prey in faecal pellets. To test this assumption, we compared the spring diet of several populations of two insular lizards from the Balearic Islands (Spain), Podarcis lilfordi and Podarcis pityusensis, using both faecal pellets and gut contents. Our results do not support the supposed bias of dietary analyses based on faecal pellets. Indeed, soft-bodied prey and particularly insect larvae are often equally represented in faecal pellets and gut contents. Alternatively, soft bodied prey are represented in different proportions in gut contents and faecal pellets, but in some cases with higher proportions being observed in the gut contents, and in other cases with higher proportions in faecal samples. We conclude that faecal pellets can be a reliable source of information for dietary studies.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Pérez-Cembranos, A. & Rodríguez, V. & Buadxes, J.M. & Brown, R.P. & Böhme, W. & Terrasa, B. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, C. (2017) -
The Ibizan wall lizard, Podarcis pityusensis, was the subject of several documented translocations by the German vertebrate zoologist Martin Eisentraut, in 1930. He aimed to initiate long-term experiments into the evolution of melanism and other morphological traits and accordingly he designed introductions into five islets that (he believed) contained no lizards. In this study, we analyzed the genetic and morphological characteristics of individuals we found there. We found no lizards on two of the islets, namely Escull de Tramuntana and Galera, but for the first time, detected a large population on a third islet, Es Vaixell. Eisentraut founded the Es Vaixell population with nonmelanistic Ibizan specimens, but the present day population of Es Vaixell was found to be fully melanistic. Genetic markers support a strong similarity between Es Vaixell and its neighbour islet, Na Gorra, and indicate that, in all likelihood, the individuals introduced by Eisentraut have left no descendants. It is likely that Es Vaixell already contained lizards prior to this introduction. Analyses of microsatellite DNA placed individuals from a fourth islet, Dau Gran, with those of one of its source islet, Escull Vermell. They are also morphologically close to individuals from Escull Vermell. This suggests that selection pressures could have favoured the Escull Vermell phenotype following introduction. For reasons we discuss, the translocations have revealed less than Eisentraut would have originally hoped for. Although evolutionary processes are normally time-consuming, these translocations do provide some potential insights into the rapid evolution of lizard morphology following colonization.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Riera, N. (2002) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Riera, N. (2004) -
The ecological conditions of Mediterranean islands favour the consumption of vascular plants by lizards and, consequently, the raise of several interactions, including plant pollination and seed dispersal. However, some interactions can be more complicated, with variable benefits or detrimental effects for lizards and plants. In this talk we describe the striking case of the Dead Horse Arum and the Balearic Lizard in Aire (Illa de l`Aire), a coastal islet of Menorca.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Riera, N. & Hernández-Estévez, J.A. & Piccolo, V. & Potter, C. (2006) -
In this work we describe the interaction of the dead horse arum and the Balearic lizard in Aire (Balearic Islands, Spain). In Aire Island (Illa de l`Aire), the dead horse arum, Dracunculus muscivorus, is particularly abundant. From 1999 to 2005 we studied the population of this plant species and its relationship with the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi. During blooming period, several lizards exhibited an intense foraging behaviour focused on open inflorescences. Lizards were able to capture flies attracted by the plants and those trapped in tubules as pollinators. The exploitation of pollinators was principally made by largest males of the population that actively excluded females and smaller males from plants, skewing lizard sex-ratio in areas of maximum plant density. Lizards consumed fruits following the progressive fruit maturation. In two germination experiments, we detected an enhanced germination of seeds from lizards’ faeces, in comparison with those directly taken from ripening fruits. Thus, the Balearic lizard is the main legitimate disperser of the dead horse arum. From 1999 to 2005, the density of the dead horse arum increased from 4800 ind./ha to more than 25.000 ind./ha in some optimal areas of the islet, indicating a very positive balance of the interaction between plants and lizards.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Riera, N. & Perera, A. (2004) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Riera, N. & Perera, A. & Martin-Garcia, S. (2005) -
In this study we examine the consumption and seed dispersal of the vascular plant, Phillyrea media by this lizard in the coastal islet of Rey , Port of Mahón (Menorca, Balearic Islands) and the consequences of this foraging behaviour in the natural regeneration of native vegetation of this islet.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Riera, N. & Piccolo, V. & Potter, C. (2006) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Romero-Bevia, M. (1999) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Romero-Bevia, M. & Ortega, F. & Martin-Garcia, S. & Perera, A. & López-Vivente, M. & Galache, C. (1999) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Romero-Beviá, M. & Torre, A. de la & Vicedo, M. & Garcia-Sirvent, J. (1999) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Sa-Sousa, P. & Marquez, R. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2009) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Salvador, A. (1981) -
The behavioral thermoregulation of P. pityusensis was studied for a period of one week during August, 1980. The cloacal temperatures and the ground and air temperatures were recorded by means of thermistors. P. pityusensis behaves like a heliotermic species with a temperature range between 28.5 and 41.5 ° C. Very significant correlations were found to exist between the Tc (Body temperatures) and the Ta (Air temperatures) or between the Tc and the Ts (Ground temperatures) in all ofthe specimens analyzed. There are also significant statistical differences between te mean Tc in individuals during thermoregulation and the Tc of individuals active on the ground or inactive underneath stones. The daily pattern of activity is bimodal; the variations in body temperatures, being as a whole relatively independent of the fluctuations in the ambient temperature, adjust themselves to this pattern. P. pityusensis, roughly speaking, manifest several characteristics of the behavioral thermoregulation and pattern of activity similar to those described for other lizards such as Psammodromos algirus, inhabitants of the mediterranean region which is characterized by its hot, dry summers.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Salvador, A. (1988) -
A studie was carried out on 17 populations of Podarcis lilfordi inhabiting the islets off the coast of Menorca (Balearic Islands). Pattern and colouring together with the statistical analysis performed suggested that the menorcan rassenkreis comprises a total of 9 subspecies. The evolutionary processes involved appear to be fundamentally governed by the age of the islets, their distance from the coast and by their ecological conditions. Though in certain cases it may be postulated that genetic drift may have acted as a differentiating mechanism in populations which were initially small. However, interpretation of the microevolutionary processin Menorca is more difficult thnin the case of other rassenkreis of the Balearic Islands due to extinction of the `mother` population on the main island.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Traveset, A. (1998) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Traveset, A. (1999) -
Different kinds of interactions between lizards and plants in the Mediterranean basin have been described. Lizards have shown to `use` plants as a refuge against predators, as a foraging site, as a thermal microhabitat or as a food resource. In the last case, they can either act as herbivores (+/- interaction, consuming vegetative and/or reproductive parts, and damaging the plant to a higher or lower degree) or as mutualists (+/+ interaction, by behaving as legitimate pollinators and/or seed dispersers). The importance of plants as a food resource for Mediterranean lizards has been found to be high in insular habitats, espescially in small islands, where the paucity of arthropod prey availability redirects the foraging activity of lizards towards other nutrient resources. In such small islands, plants may play a major role in the trophic ecology of lacertid lizards, as suggested by recent studies. Likewise, lizards may be important both as efficient pollen transporters and seed dispersersfor a variety of plants. Some of these lizard-plant interactions are unique. The effect lizards have on the reproductive and dispersal succes of some species may be very relevant for plant preserveation, and in turn, the preserveation of prticular behavioral and ecological traits of the particular lizard populations depends, at least partly, on the plants they interact with.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Valakos, E.D. & Gil, M.J. & Guerrero, F. Lulch, J. & Navarro, P. & Maragou, P. (1999) -
Although the herpetofauna of Greece is well known (see for example, Werner, 1938; Wettstein, 1953, 1957; Ondrias, 1968; Chondropoulos, 1986, 1989), several distributional questions still remain unclear, mainly for the mainland but also for islands. ` In this paper we present some chorological information from a field trip of one month (April 1990) to mainland and insular Greece.
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Valakos, E.D. & Guerrero, F. & Gil-Costa, M.J. (1993) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Verbruggen, J.L. & Romero-Beviá, M. & Martinez-Fitor, A. (1994) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. & Villardón, M.P.G. (1986) -
Pérez-Mellado, V. et al (2003) -
In this work the status of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, from Colom island (Illa d`en Colom) is presented. We describe some morphological traits, as the sexual dimorphism with larger males. Population density is quite variable between different areas of the island. We found lower densities at core areas and higher densities at coastal zones, close to sand beaches. The repoductive cycle starts very early, at least during the month of february. Clutch size is reduced to two eggs per clutch. However, in several females we found more than one clutch per year. The diet is a mixture of clumped prey types of small size and several plant species. The role of P. lilfordi as legittimate seed disperser of some plant species, as the Menorcan endemism Daphne rodriguezii, is discussed. At present, the Balearic lizards of Colom island have an adequate conservation state. The existence of some potential threats, derived from the present day use of the islands is also discussed.
Pérez-Mellado, Valentin & Galindo Villardón, P. (1986) -
Pérez-Méndez, N. & Jordano, P. & Valido, A. (2018) -
1. Defaunation of large-bodied frugivores could be causing severe losses of crucial ecosystem functions such as seed dispersal. The immediate ecological consequences may include alteration or even collapse of seed-mediated gene flow affecting plant population connectivity, with impacts on the regional scale distribution of genetic variation. Yet these far-reaching consequences of defaunation remain understudied. 2. Here we tested whether human-induced defaunation of the Canarian frugivorous lizards (Gallotia, Lacertidae) altered within-island population connectivity and the amount and large-scale distribution of genetic variation of Neochamaelea pulverulenta (Rutaceae), which relies exclusively on these lizards for seed dispersal. Our study system defines a lizard downsizing gradient with three contrasted ecological scenarios (islands) with relatively optimal (Gran Canaria; large-sized lizards), sub-optimal (Tenerife; medium) and collapsed seed dispersal processes (La Gomera; small). We extensively sampled individual plant genotypes from 80 populations spanning the full geographic range of the plant to examine their genetic diversity, population-genetic network topologies, and the patterns of isolation both by distance (IBD) and resistance (IBR) across these three ecological scenarios. 3. Plant genetic diversity appeared unaffected by defaunation-mediated downsizing of frugivorous lizards. However, we found a reduced overall plant population connectivity together with an increased isolation by distance within the most defaunated islands (La Gomera and, to a lesser extent, Tenerife) when compared with the scenario preserving the functionality of lizard-mediated seed dispersal (Gran Canaria). The results, with a significant effect of lizard downsizing, were robust when controlling for biotic/abiotic differences among the three islands by means of isolation by resistance models (IBR). 4. Synthesis. Our results provide valuable insights into the far-reaching consequences of the deterioration of mutualisms on plant population dynamics over very large spatial scales. Conservation of large-bodied frugivores is thus essential because their irreplaceable mutualistic dispersal services maintain an extensive movement of seeds across the landscape, crucial for maintaining the genetic cohesiveness of metapopulations and the adaptive potential of plant species across their entire geographic range.
Pérez-Méndez, N. & Rodriguez, A. & Nogales, M. (2018) -
The loss of largest-bodied individuals within species of frugivorous animals is one of the major consequences of defaunation. The gradual disappearance of large-bodied frugivores is expected to entail a parallel deterioration in seed dispersal functionality if the remaining smaller-sized individuals are not so effective as seed dispersers. While the multiple impacts of the extinction of large bodied species have been relatively well studied, the impact of intraspecific downsizing (i.e. the extinction of large individuals within species) on seed dispersal has rarely been evaluated. Here we experimentally assessed the impact of body-size reduction in the frugivorous lizard Gallotia galloti (Lacertidae), an endemic species of the Canary Islands, on the seed germination patterns of two fleshy-fruited plant species (Rubia fruticosa and Withania aristata). Seed germination curves and the proportions of germinated seeds were compared for both plant species after being defecated by large-sized individuals and small-sized individuals. The data show that seeds of W. aristata defecated by larger-sized lizards germinated faster and in a higher percentage than those defecated by small-sized lizards, while no differences were found for R. fruticosa seeds. Our results suggest that disappearance of the largest individuals of frugivorous species may impair recruitment of some plant species by worsening seed germination. They also warn us of a potential cryptic loss of seed dispersal functionality on defaunated ecosystems, even when frugivorous species remain abundant.
Pérez-Quintero, J.C. (1995) -
Pérez-Quintero, J.C. (1996) -
We report on the reproductive cycle and reproductive characteristics of three oviparous lizard species: Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus hispanicus and Acanthodactylus erythrurus from a sandy coastal area in SW-Spain. Maximum testicle activity in P. algirus is research between March-May. Oviposition occurs along the activity cycle until September, clutch size average 4.8 eggs (2-10) and larger females tend to produce larger clutches. In P. hoispanicus testicle reaches maximal volume during February-May. Oviposition occurs throughout April-September, and two clutches, averaging 3.6 egg (2-5), are produced annually. In A. erythrurus mean testicle colume reaches its maximum in March, oviposition occurs in two cycles: spring and summer, clutch size averages 4.4 eggs (3-6) and increases with female snout-vent length.
Pérez-Quintero, J.C. (2001) -
Studies on thermoregulation and temporal distribution of Psammodromus algirus and Psammodromus hispanicus have been carried out in a coastal area of SW-Spain (Huelva province). The annual activity cycle of Psammodromus algirus is continue: from January to December; maximum activity level of adults and subadults is reached in May (air temperature between 25-30°C) and minimum during summer and winter months. Daily cycle displays two annual evolution models in relation to air temperature: 1) Unimodal pattern, with maximum during the midday (October and April); and 2) Bimodal pattern (display in U) with depressed activity during the warmer summer months at the midday (May-September). Such seasonal shifts in time of activity facilitate thermoregulation, body temperature (BT) of active Psammodromus algirus during the annual cycle averages 30.9°C (19.0-40.1, SD= 5.66, N= 188); relations between BT, air (AT) and substratum (ST) Temperature are significant (p<0.01): r= 0.6325 and r= 0.8262, respectively. Psammodromus hispanicus decrease its activity rhythm during nwinter; maximum activity level is reached in May, daily activity pattern is associated with air temperatures lower than 26.0°C, over these temperatures the number of observations decrease until reach the minimum at 17.00 (Mean European Time). Body temperature of active Psammodromus hispanicus during the annual cycle averages 32.6°C (28.8-36.6, SD= 2.34, N= 63); relations between BT, AT and ST are significant (p<0.01): r= 0.6056 and r= 0.4748, respectively.
Pérez-Quintero, J.C. & Rubio-Garcia, J.C. (1997) -
Perez-Sanchez, F. & Molowny, A. & Garcia-Verdugo, J.M. & Lopez-Garcia, C. (1989) -
Autoradiography was used to demonstrate the genesis and migration of cells in the nucleus sphericus of perinatal, juvenile and adult lizards, Podarcis hispanica (Sauria, Lacertidae). Following intraperitoneal injections of [3H]thymidine (5 μCi/g b. w.) and survival times of 1, 7, 18 and 28 days, labelled cells were found in the ependyma, marginal layer and mural layer of the nucleus sphericus in specimens of all ages. After short survival times, most labelled cells were located in the ependymal layer. Longer survival times resulted in labelling of cells mainly in the mural layer. At intermediate survival times, a substantial number of labelled cells was also found in the marginal layer. The time course of labelling suggests that neuronal proliferation takes place in the ependyma surrounding the ventricle. Subsequently, the newly formed neurons migrate centripetally and are recruited into the mural layer.
Perez-Santana, L. & Martinez-de-la-Torre, M. & Loro, J.F. & Puelles, L. (1996) -
The retinotectal projection of reptiles is largely crossed. The intertectal commissure is an important pathway that interconnects directly the two sides of the optic tectum. The rostrocaudal topography of intertectal commissural fibers at the dorsal midplane was examined by means of the in vitro horseradish peroxidase (HRP) labelling technique in the lizard Gallotia stehlini. Unilateral large deposits of tracer in the optic tectum as well as smaller deposits restricted to one quadrant were used to map the intertectal fibers anterogradely. Most commissural axons reached the contralateral side grouped into a dense bundle at the transition between two structurally distinct parts of the midbrain dorsal midline. The smaller rostral zone relates laterally to the griseum tectale, whereas the larger caudal zone relates to the tectum. The intertectal fibers seem to converge on the rostralmost part of the latter midline region, even though they originate throughout the optic tectum. A rough rostrocaudal tectotopic order was detected at the midline. Retrogradely labelled neurons were best obtained by depositing HRP directly within the compact commissure at the midline. These belong to pyriform cells in the periventricular layers 3 and 5. Axons labelled from the tectum did not enter the posterior commissure nor the intervening commissural region related to the griseum tectale.
Pérez-Tris, J. & Llanos-Garrido, A. & Bloor, P. & Carbonell, R. & Telleria, J.L. & Santos, T. & Diaz, J.A. (2019) -
Isolation owing to anthropogenic habitat fragmentation is expected to increase the homozygosity of individuals, which might reduce their fitness as a result of inbreeding depression. Using samples from a fragmented population of the lizard Psammodromus algirus, for which we had data about two correlates of fitness, we genotyped individuals for six microsatellite loci that correctly capture genome-wide individual homozygosity of these lizards (as validated with an independent sample of lizards genotyped for both these microsatellites and > 70 000 single nucleotide polymorphisms). Our data revealed genetic structure at a very small geographical scale, which was compatible with restricted gene flow among populations disconnected in a matrix of inhospitable habitat. Lizards from the same fragment were genetically more related to one another than expected by chance, and individual homozygosity was greater in small than in large fragments. Within fragments, individual homozygosity was negatively associated with adult body size and clutch mass, revealing a link among reduced gene flow, increased homozygosity and lowered fitness that might reduce population viability deterministically. Our results contribute to mounting evidence of the impact of the loss of genetic diversity on fragmented wild populations.
Pérez‐Cembranos, A. & Pérez‐Mellado, V. (2022) -
Background: In lacertid lizards from Mediterranean islands, frugivory is common, particularly under prey scarcity, a characteristic of small islands. In several populations, the diet of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, is extremely variable and includes fleshy fruits. However, frugivory is sporadic and there are very few examples of dominant fruit consumption. Results: We describe the existence of an extraordinary fruit consumption of a single plant species, the juniper, Juniperus phoenicea, by the Balearic lizard, P. lilfordi. In addition, for the first time in Lacertidae, we describe the exist‐ ence of scat piling in the population of these lizards inhabiting Cabrera Island (Balearic Islands, Spain). Scat piling was detected in an isolated location with hundreds of scats deposited by several individuals at a particular place. Conclusions: The high population density of lizards at the island of Cabrera and the great versatility of foraging behavior of this species allows us to hypothesize that scat piles could act as an attractor for numerous individuals, that is, as inadvertent social information. If that hypothesis is correct, it would result in the concentration of several indi‐ viduals foraging on a single or a few ripening plants. We cannot, however, rule out that individuals concentrated due to the scarcity of ripening plants in other areas, without any influence of the presence of several lizards, as attractors to the site. Our findings modify previous descriptions of the diet of the Balearic lizard in Cabrera made with smaller samples. In some places and periods of the year, frugivory on a single plant species can be extremely intense and only large sample sizes of scats allow to find these particular trends in the foraging ecology of insular lizards.
Pérez‐Cembranos, A. & Pérez‐Mellado, V. & Cooper, W.E. (2018) -
Deceptive flowers from several plant species emit odors that mimic oviposition cues and attract female insects seeking for a laying site. Helicodiceros muscivorus is a species that emits an odor mimicking the foul smell of rotting meat and thereby attracts blowflies that usually oviposit on carcasses but are deceived into pollinating the plant. Thus, H. muscivorus is a striking case of pollination by brood‐site deception. The Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, exhibits remarkable interactions with dead horse arum. Balearic lizards, which sometimes forage on carcasses, are attracted to blooming dead horse arum. We showed experimentally that P. lilfordi can detect chemical cues from carcasses on cotton swabs and exhibits elevated tongue‐flick rates to carcass chemical cues compared to control stimuli. Lizards also detected and located hidden carcasses using only airborne chemical cues. The responses of lizards to chemical cues from the spadix of blooming dead horse arum were qualitatively and quantitatively similar to those to carcass odors. Therefore, the decay‐like odor that attracts blowflies for the plant`s benefit also attracts lizards. This attraction may initially have been somewhat favorable for lizards that eat blowflies, but slightly unfavorable for plants because the lizards ate some pollinators. We suggest that lizards attracted by odor may have learned later to use the plant for thermoregulation and then consume its fruits, making the association more positive for lizards and benefitted arum by seed dispersal.
Perkins, C.M. (1988) -
Perkins, C.M. & Avery, R.A. (1989) -
Pernat, A. & Sellier, Y. & Préau, C. & Beaune, D. (2017) -
The western green lizard populations (Lacerta bilineata Daudin, 1802 ; Squamata: Lacertidae) are locally threatened by habitat loss. What ecological management measures promote the presence of this reptile linked to semi-open environments? The species is recorded at the Pinail where grazing, mowing, no-intervention and fire are implemented to maintain biological mosaic with associated species. The mean number of observations or occurrence probability of L. bilineata was compared among four mesophilic moorland with simultaneous inspections of basking plates during the same season (N = 24/site. Sites are: annually grazed, 12-year old burnt moorland, 10-year old burnt moorland, burnt moorland five years). There is 15 times more probability of green lizard occurrence in the pasture than on the moorland sites (p < 0.01).
Perret, J.L. & Mertens, R. (1957) -
Perrimond, M. & Nicoletti, M. & Bernini, P. (2018) -
Il est aujourd`hui tres important de comprendre les phenomenes de disparition d`especes pour y faire face via des plans de conservation. Et cela notamment en milieu insulaire ou l`effet des interactions interspecifiques est duplique et accelere par la proximite des habitats, les flux d`organismes et la biodiversite qui en est limitee. Les especes envahissantes sont une des causes principales du declin d`especes, et elles touchent notamment les reptiles. Le lezard Podarcis raffonei endemique des iles eoliennes est en voie d`extinction. Parallelement, l`espece Podarcis siculus exotique a l`archipel connait une extension la qualifiant d`invasive. Cette etude constitue une approche descriptive de l`etat general de la population de Podarcis siculus sur l`ile de Filicudi, dans le but de comprendre son developpement invasif et negatif pour Podarcis raffonei. Pour cela l’environnement thermique, la morphologie du corps et la prevalence de l’espece invasive ont ete compares a la litterature. Les mesures ont mis en evidence une dominance demographique de Podarcis siculus, une bonne capacite de thermoregulation de l’espece ainsi que le lien avec la temperature du substrat sur lequel elle evolue. La temperature de la roche influence egalement l`exposition des femelles et la probabilite qu`elles soient attaquees. Les mesures morphologiques ont montre une inferiorite en taille de Podarcis siculus par rapport a Podarcis raffonei et une plus grande probabilite d`attaque chez les grands lezards.
Perry, C. (2022) -
Perry, C. & Sarraude, T. & Billet, M. & Minot, E. & Escribano, P.C. & Berroneau, M. & Pottider, G. & Loutfi, E. & Aubret, F. (2022) -
Perry, G. (1990) -
Perry, G. (2007) -
Perry, G. & Dmi`el, R. (1994) -
Perry, G. & Dmi`el, R. (1995) -
Considerable attention has been given lately to the effects of habitat fragmentation and destruction on wildlife. Here, we summarize their effects on animal abundance and plant cover during a three-year study period ( 1987- 90) of the sand dunes of the coastal plain of Israel. Populations of the gray monitor Varanus griseus, the spur-thighed tortoise Testudo graeca, and the mountain gazelle Gazella gazella in the study area declined markedly and plant cover increased significantly. Habitat destruction and fragmentation, introduced animals (especially dogs and carrion crows), a continuing change in the native herbivore fauna, and blockage of wind-borne sand are all believed to be responsible for the observed changes. We recommend that small areas, unsuitable for full protection, be declared `city reserves,` to be used for educational and recreational purposes. Nature reserves need to be managed in order to maintain the existing fauna and flora.
Perry, G. & Dmi´el, R. (1994) -
The reproductive ecology of Acanthodactylus scutellatus was studied in Israel. This species inhabits shifting sand dunes, with plant cover typically <10%. Juveniles emerge from June to September, go through a period of reduced activity in winter and return to full activity next spring. Large individuals (>50 mm) begin to reproduce immediately upon emergence. Smaller animals reach sexual maturity later. Average number of eggs per clutch is 2·6 (range 1-4). In captivity, females deposit one to four clutches (average 2·3) between May and June. Maximum life expectancy of A. scutellatus in the wild is 1 year only.
Perry, G. & Garland Jr., T. (2002) -
The area traversed by an animal during food gathering, mating, and other routine activities is termed the home range (HR), and its size is believed to reflect behavioral and physiological requirements (e.g., access to mates and food). We evaluated both biological and methodological factors that may affect estimated HR sizes of lizards. We compiled a database of nearly 500 published sex 3 population data sets. These yielded usable data for 108 populations from 60 species, all with both sexes represented. Initial analyses indicated pervasive sex differences, so sexes were analyzed separately with both conventional and phylogenetically based statistical methods. First, we conducted conventional analyses of covariance, which treat each data point as statistically independent. Second, we repeated these analyses while comparing members of two major clades represented in our database, Iguania and Autarchoglossa. Third, we repeated the analyses after designating smaller clades, nested within major clades. Fourth, we performed a fully phylogenetic analysis via independent contrasts and a composite phylogeny assembled from published studies. All analyses showed highly significant effects of both biological (body size, diet, habitat type) and most methodological (calculation method and minimum number of sightings per individual, but not study duration) factors and covariates tested. The conventional analysis comparing Iguania and Autarchoglossa en toto indicated a significant difference, as has been suggested in the literature. The analysis with nested minor clades, however, revealed differences among these but not between the two major clades. The analysis with phylogenetically independent contrasts indicated no statistically significant differences either among minor clades or between major clades. We also used our database to compare the scaling of HR area to body mass, using recently published allometric equations for field metabolic rates of lizards. The similarity of allometric slopes suggests that, interspecifically, HR size scales directly with energetic requirements. Intraspecifically, however, we found that males in both Autarchoglossa and Iguania consistently had larger HRs than did females. This difference, presumably related to the need to maximize access to females, may impose a ‘‘cost of reproduction’’ on males.
Perry, G. & Lampl, I. & Lerner, A. & Rothenstein, D. & Shani, E. & Sivan, N. & Werner, Y.L. (1990) -
Foraging strategy was observed in five species of Israeli lacertid lizards in the field. Acanthodactylus scutellatus is a sit-and-wait strategist, whereas A. boskianus, A. schreiberi, Lacerta laevis and Mesalina guttulata forage widely. However, the actual values differed from those reported by Huey and Pianka (1981) for Kalahari lacertids, possibly indicating the existence of a continuum of foraging modes. Foraging intensity (proportion of time spent moving or frequency of moves) is positively correlated to relative tail length, and negatively correlated to relative clutch mass. Additional possible correlates are discussed, and some cautionary remarks added.
Peschel, R. & Hacks, M. & Gruss, H. & Klemann, C. (2013) -
Peskov, V. & Maljuk, A. & Matveev, A. (2013) -
The variability of morphometric characters, morphological and biological diversity of individuals in the population of L. a. chersonensis inhabiting Zhebriyanskuyu ridge (Vilkovo, Odessa region, Ukraine) examined by the methods of multivariate analysis. The high level of consistency in the variability of 24 morphometric characters, as well as lizards differentiation by age and gender determined according to the results of factor analysis. Аllocated 8 age-and gender groups of individuals who differ in their linear dimensions and proportions of the body. It is shown that sex differences in sand lizard manifested in the growth rate (males grow faster than females), and in morphology (adult males — the most morphologically unique group of animals).
Песков, В.Н. & Малюк, А.Ю. & Матвеев, А.С. (2013) -
Методами многомерного анализа изучены изменчивость морфометрических признаков, морфологическое и биологическое разнообразие особей в популяции L. a. сherso- nensis, населяющей Жебриянскую гряду в окр. г. Вилково Одесской обл. Украины. По результа- там факторного анализа установлен высокий уровень согласованности в изменчивости 24 мор- фометрических признаков, а также дифференциация ящериц по возрасту и полу. Выделено 8 поло-возрастных групп особей, которые различаются по линейным размерам и пропорциям тела. Показано, что половые различия у прыткой ящерицы проявляются как в темпах роста (самцы растут быстрее самок), так и в морфологии (взрослые самцы — морфологически наибо- лее уникальная группа животных).
Peskov, V. & Sviridenko, E. & Maliuk, A. & Kotenko, T. (2010) -
Presented data characterise the peculiarity of manifestation of sexual dimorphism by meristic features of pholidosis of the sand lizard (L. agilis from the territory of Ukraine) at specific and subspecific (four subspecies) levels of analysis. It is shown that the lizards of all four subspecies differ both in degree and character of manifestation of sexual dimorphism by pholidosis features. Diagnostic pholidosis features are revealed. Definitive functions for identification of males and females of the sand lizard at specific and subspecific levels are proposed.
Peskov, V. & Sviridenko, E. & Maliuk, A. & Kotenko, T. (2011) -
The data on geographical variation and intraspecific taxonomic structure of the Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758 from Ukraine, resulted from study of 20 geographic populations by 12 meristic folidosis features. Four levels of morphological differentiation of the sand lizard, reflecting the main features of the geographical and taxonomic variability of this species in Ukraine are recognized. The basis of intraspecific taxonomic structure of L. agilis in this part of the species range are shown to be consisting of four subspecies: L. a. exigua, L. a. shersonensis, L. a. tauridica and L. agilis ssp. (Carpathians), and their levels of genetic and morphological divergence largely coincide (RS = 0,96). The results of study of morphological divergence confirm validity of classifying L. a. shersonensis to the western group of subspecies.
Peskov, V.M. & Syniavska, I.O. (2016) -
Based on results obtained by investigation of morphological differentiation of individuals of different age and sex, a highly correlated variation of 33 morphometric traits has been revealed in Lindholm’s rock lizard, Darevskia lindholmi (Szczerbak, 1962). It has been proved that the increase of linear body dimensions reflects the basic (ontogenetic) trend of variation of traits during late ontogenesis of D. lindholmi. It has been shown that sexual differences of some traits in D. lindholmi are almost absent, while by the linear body dimensions (the value of the first canonical root) males are larger than females. The age-related morphological differentiation of this lizards significantly exceeds sexual differences among adult individuals.
Peskov, V.N. & Brovko, A.U. (2007) -
Peskov, V.N. & Brovko, A.Y. (2005) -
The variation of 38 meristic traits of pholidose L. agilis is studied. The morphological diversification of 11 populations of the sand lizard from the territory of Ukraine is investigated. The problems of the geographical variability and intraspecific systematization of L. agilis are considered.
Peskov, V.N. & Maliuk, A.Y. & Petrenko, N.A. (2013) -
Peskov, V.N. & Maliuk, A.Y. & Petrenko, N.A. (2018) -
As it was shown on the example of the common frog Rana temporaria Linnaeus, 1758 and the green lizard Lacerta viridis Laurenti, 1768, the expressivity of sexual differences by morphological traits increases with age in the late ontogenesis of amphibians and reptiles, as well as the orientation and structure of these characters may change. Sexual differences are poorly expressed (green lizard) or not expressed at all (common frog) in juvenile animals. In the size-age groups of subadultus and adultus, the mean values of many morphological characters are significantly larger in males than in females at the same linear body size. The direction of sexual differences by separate characters can vary with the age of the animals. The sexual differences in amphibians and reptiles have an adaptive nature.
Peter, K. (1904) -
Peters, G. (1958) -
Peters, G. (1959) -
Peters, G. (1960) -
Peters, G. (1961) -
Peters, G. (1962) -
Peters, G. (1963) -
Peters, G. (1964) -
Peters, G. (1970) -
Peters, G. (2018) -
Peters, G. & Muskheliswili, T.A. (1968) -
a) Aus dem Tal des oberen Iori in Nord-Grusinien (Südabdachung des Großen Kaukasus, rund 50 km nordnordöstlich Tbilissi) wird an Hand eines Materials von 50 Exemplaren eine neue Subspecies der Zauneidechse unter dem Namen Lacerta agilis ioriensis ssp. n. beschrieben. b) Lacerta agilis ioriensis hat, obwohl transkaukasisch verbreitet, keine engeren Beziehungen zu den übrigen transkaukasischen Formen der Zauneidechse (L. a. grusinica, L. a. brevicaudata), sondern steht in einem sehr nahen Verhältnis zur nordkaukasischen L. a. boemica, von der sie durch die hohe Kammlinie des Großen Kaukasus im Bereich des Kasbek-Massivs isoliert ist. c) Der Charakter der morphologischen Übereinstimmungen und Unterschiede zwischen L. a. ioriensis und boemica lassen zwingend vermuten, daß beide aus einer Ausgangsform entstanden sind. Ihre Trennung erfolgte durch die Hebung der Kammlinie des zentralen Kaukasus über 2000 m. Spätestens im Frühpleistozän dürfte L. a. ioriensis isoliert worden sein. d) Infolge geographisch-klimatischer und ökologischer Umstände ist L. a. ioriensis eine inselartig isolierte Subspecies, deren Verbreitungsgebiet sehr viel kleiner ist als das aller anderen Unterarten von Lacerta agilis.
Peters, W. (1869) -
Peters, W. (1874) -
Peters, W.C.H. (1854) -
Peters, W.C.H. (1855) -
Peters, W.C.H. (1869) -
Peters, W.C.H. (1874) -
Peters, W.C.H. (1880) -
Peters, W.C.H. (1881) -
Peters, W.C.H. (1882) -
Peters, W.C.H. & Doria, G. (1882) -
Petersen, F. (2016) -
Pétez-Mellado, V. (2009) -
Petford, M. (2019) -
Across the globe, reptile species are threatened by anthropogenic activities, including habitat destruction, habitat degradation, expanding human settlements and climate change. Those with restricted ranges are often the most vulnerable due to their limited dispersal capabilities, narrow thermal tolerances and specific habitat requirements. Many of these restricted species are also poorly understood, with a lack of knowledge concerning their ecological and physiological requirements. In order to design effective conservation strategies for these restricted species, these knowledge gaps need to be filled. The aim of this thesis was to gain a deeper understanding on the biology of some of the endemic and restricted reptiles in the Soutpansberg Mountains. This mountain range is located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa and is a unique study area due to its sub-tropical location, habitat heterogeneity and the fact that it is located in the replacement transition zones of three biogeographic subregions. This has led to the mountains supporting extremely high faunal and floral biodiversity and endemism, reptiles being no exception. However, to date there have been few ecological studies into the reptile fauna of the area and the ecological requirements of many of these species are unknown. There are several threats that species from the mountains currently face including habitat destruction, agriculture, silviculture, mining and climate change. This thesis is made up of four main parts: firstly, I investigated the broad scale distribution patterns, climatic requirements and potential interspecific interactions of five of the rupicolous, endemics using ecological niche modelling (Afroedura pienaari; Lygodactylus incognitus: L. soutpansbergensis; Platysaurus relictus and Vhembelacerta rupicola). Results indicated that most species were limited by climatic factors, with the average temperature of the coolest three months having the most influence on the majority of the species, suggesting that they may be negatively affected by climate change in the future. Interspecific interactions between these species are not likely to affect broad-scale distribution patterns. Secondly, I examined the microhabitat requirements and potential niche separation of two, endemic Lygodactylus geckos: L. incognitus and L. soutpansbergensis by recording fine- and broad-scale habitat variables. Results indicated that the two species showed differences in their microhabitat selection, but that interspecific aggression was unlikely to be the factor causing these differences. Instead, their morphology and physiology were likely driving microhabitat selection. This study revealed microhabitat requirements of the two species, knowledge of which is important for future conservation efforts in the area. Next, I investigated the daily activity patterns of the two Lygodactylus geckos by conducting scan surveys along transects in the mountains. Results showed that L. incognitus was more active in cooler temperatures whilst L. soutpansbergensis was more active in warmer conditions. These results suggest that L. incognitus may be more vulnerable than L. soutpansbergensis to the effects of climate change and that physiological studies are required to investigate adaptive capability. Finally, I explored the potential effects climate change will have on the distribution of eleven rupicolous reptiles using ecological niche modelling. These species are likely to have limited dispersal abilities and thus are unlikely to be able to track suitable conditions in the face of climate change; therefore, I also identified potential climatic refugia. Results indicated that four species in particular are likely to be extremely vulnerable to the effects of climate change with large reductions in suitable habitat between current and future projections. The western Soutpansberg may act as a climatic refugia in the future. I recommended that detailed investigations into the physiological requirements of these vulnerable species be performed in order to develop models that are more accurate. Long-term monitoring projects in the mountain should also be executed in order to track these potential range reductions. Ultimately, this thesis resulted in the gain of valuable ecological information on several restricted reptiles of South Africa for which there was previously few data. This information is vital for ongoing conservation assessments and planning in the region. One of the main findings of this thesis is that ongoing anthropogenic pressures will likely have negative effects for the majority of the species studied here.
Petford, M.A. & Alexander, G.J. (2021) -
Climate change is causing the geographical ranges of some species to track suitable conditions. Habitat specialists, range-restricted species and species with limited dispersal abilities may be unable to track changing conditions, increasing their extinction risk. In response to changing conditions and speciesmovement patterns, there is a need to account for the effects of climate change when designing protected areas and identifying potential climate refugia.We used ecological niche models projected into future climates to identify potential impacts of climate change on the distribution of 11 rupicolous reptile species in the Soutpansberg Mountains, South Africa. Lygodactylus incognitus, Lygodactylus soutpansbergensis, Platysaurus relictus and Vhembelacerta rupicola were identified as being vulnerable to climate change due to substantial reductions in suitable habitat and low spatial overlap between current and future niche envelopes. We identified areas of high conservation importance for the persistence of these species under present-day and projected future conditions. The western Soutpansberg was identified as an area of high conservation priority as it is a potential refuge under future projections. Projecting distributions of vulnerable species into future climate predictions can guide future research and identify potential refugia that will best conserve species with restricted ranges in a world with climate change.
Petitpierre, E. & Arranz, M.J. & Terrasa, B. & Ramón, M. (1987) -
Petko, M. & Ihionvien, M. (1989) -
The distribution of substance P (SP), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) and serotonin (5-HT) containing structures in the central nervous system of the lizard, Lacerta agilis, were investigated with the aid of the peroxidase-antiperoxidase immunohistochemical method. SP and 5-HT nerve fibers are found almost all over the brain, whereas VIP fibers are mainly observed in the limbic area, in the periventricular gray matter of the diencephalon and in the brain stem. The cells of origin are located in the telencephalon for the SP, in the mesencephalic tegmentum for the VIP, and in the midline and the basis of the brain stem for the 5-HT. In addition to the known paraventricular organ in the diencephalon VIP and 5-HT immunoreactive cells are found in the ependymal layer of the rostral part of the lateral ventricle.
Petraccioli, A. & Guarino, F.M. & Kupriyanova, L. & Mezzasalma, M. & Odierna, G. & Picariello, P. & Capriglione, T. (2019) -
The common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) displays characteristic cytogenetic, reproductive, molecular, and biogeographic variability. This species comprises oviparous and viviparous populations with disjunct distribution and sex chromosome polymorphisms, from simple ZZ/ZW to complex Z1Z1Z2Z2/Z1Z2W systems with different morphologies of the W chromosome. In this study, we used the primers SINE A and SINE B and a newly designed primer pair to (1) obtain information on the presence and distribution of transposable elements (TEs) in 8 squamate families and (2) assess the chromosomal location of SINE Squam elements in Z. vivipara. PCR amplification with SINE A and SINE B produced single or multiple products in different Z. vivipara populations, subsequently used to design the SINE-Zv primers. Using the newly designed SINE-Zv primers, we identified 2 sequences of about 700 and 300 bp (SINE-Zv 700 and SINE-Zv 300) in all the investigated populations of Z. vivipara. Fluorescence in situ hybridizations showed a preferential localization of SINE-Zv sequences in the peritelomeric regions of almost all chromosomes, with the exception of the W. Both sequences contained a distinct segment of SINE Squam2. SINE-Zv 700 appeared to be restricted to Z. vivipara, while SINE-Zv 300 contained a partial Gypsy sequence that is highly conserved among Squamata and showed high identity values (72-93%) with several transcripts from different species. Using the same primers, we also highlighted the presence of another highly conserved Gypsy-like fragment in snakes which displayed significant similarity with the stomatin-like protein 2 of colubrids. Our results suggest that SINEs and the Gypsy-like elements are widely distributed among squamates and may have played an active role in their genomic evolution and differentiation.
Petraccioli, A. & Guarino, F.M. & Mezzasalma, M. & Odierna, G. & Pallotta, M.M. & Picariello, O. & Capriglione, T. (2021) -
A molecular study using specifically designed primers for Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA sequencing (RAPDs) highlighted differentially expressed bands in male and female specimens of Zootoca vivipara. After cloning and sequencing, searches in Repbase and BLAST N evidenced, in the male, a sequence containing distinct segments showing high identity values with a fragment of the Squam 1 SINE family of Podarcis muralis, a region of the intron 7 of the beta-fibrinogen (FGB) gene from Lacerta viridis and a microsatellite sequence of Podarcis melisellensis, respectively. A sequence of 817 bp isolated in the female had three regions of interest showing high identity values with: a) a TC1 Mariner DNA transposon of Petromyzon marinus; b) the intron 7 of the betafibrinogen (FGB) gene of wall lizards of the genus Podarcis; c) a region of an ultra-conserved element present in the genome of birds and mammals, suggesting its conservation during the diversification of this group of vertebrates. Analyses with quantitative dot blot and FISH showed that the sequences isolated were interspersed on autosomes and sex chromosomes of Z. vivipara, each representing about the 0.03% of the genome.
Petrosyan, R. & Arakelyan, M. (2013) -
In order to decide a disputed taxonomic rank of two close forms of rock lizards of genus Darevskia we compared form “nairensis” from the city of Yerevan in the gorge of Razdan river (1006 m above sea level) and “raddei” from a vicinity of the Geghard monastery in the gorge of Azat river (1940 m) approximately at distance of 24-25 km from each other. Morphological researches have shown their similarity: “nairensis” and “raddei” significantly differ only by number of dorsal scales (P<0.01 for both sexes) and scales between the masseteric shield and the supratemporal (P<0.01 for males and P<0.001 for females), where the number of scales of “raddei” exceed that of “nairensis”. Despite the close morphological similarity, earlier was suggested that two close forms of lizards may be reproductive isolated. Our researches have shown that terms of breeding of males and females of “nairensis” were on 7-10 days earlier than “raddei”, however this may result of different climate conditions in concerning with elevation. Our parasitological observation of blood smears have shown that two forms of lizards contain different forms of blood parasites, where “nairensis” were infected mostly by parasites identified according to their morphology as specimens of genus Karyolysus, while “raddei” were mostly infected by parasites of genus Hepatazoon, which also may result of different habitats rather than species rank differences.
Petrosyan, R. & Arakelyan, M. (2017) -
We presented data on reproductive traits of the rare parthenogenetic species Darevskia rostombekowi from the surroundings of the city in Dilijan and on the southern shore of the lake Sevan. Comparison of two populations showed that the length of the body of adult lizards from the Sevan population was significantly higher (p <0.01) than from the Dilijan population (51.75 ± 0.75). Lizards of the two populations do not differ in the number of eggs, they laid eggs in the laboratory in the 20-26 June, 2017, and hatching takes place in the period 08 -10 August 2017, the development of eggs was 45-47 days. Newbornlizardshadabodylengthof 26-27 mm.
Petrosyan, R. & Sargsyan, R. & Arakelyan, M. (2016) -
The parthenogenetic species Darevskia rostombekowi is listed in the Red Book of Armenia and the IUCN Red List as ‘Endangered’. Among the noted threats to this species is competition with syntopic species. Therefore, our main goal was to compare the coexistence patterns among syntopic species. Census was conducted along five different transects (about 1 km long each) during May – September 2015, in two isolated populations. The numbers of counted parthenogenetic lizards of D. rostombekowi (40-46%, 23 individuals/ha) and D. unisexualis (60-54%, 35 individuals/ha) were not different between among (P= 0.87) in Sevan Lake population, but differed (P< 0.001) among the three parthenogenetic species [D. rostombekowi (30-34%, 6 individuals/ha), D. dahli (60-54%, 11 individuals/ha), and D. armeniaca (10-12%, 2 individuals/ha)] in the area of coexistence, in the vicinity of Dilijan city. Population density of D. rostombekowi from Sevan Lake was significantly higher (t-value = 6.50, P< 0.0001) than that in the Dilijan population. Herein, we analyze the temporal and spatial niches of lizards living synoptically to assess the degree of niche differentiation among them. No differences in vegetation density in the microhabitats used by syntopic species have been revealed for both populations. The comparison of daily activities have shown similar bimodal patterns for D. rostombekowi and D. dahli in Dilijan populations while in Sevan D. unisexualis shows a bimodal pattern of daily activity while D. rostombekowi a unimodal one. Moreover, it was noted that D. unisexualis appeared on the surface before D. rostombekowi in the morning and remained active longer. However, the number of D. rostombekowi individuals in May, just after hibernation, and in September, before hibernation, was higher than D. unisexualis. The lower density of D. rostombekowi in Dilijan population may have allowed synchronous activity cycles due to the lack of competition between species, in contrast to Sevan Lake populations.
Petrosyan, R.K. (2018) -
The daily activities of two isolated populations of endangered species of rock lizards Darevkia rostombekowi were studied. The main aim of our study was the show the competition among syntopic species of rock lizards. Our results have shown the similarity of patterns of daily activities for lizards belonging to different species and sharing the same territories and differences in peak of their activities, which allow them to avoid the competition.
Petrosyan, V. & Arakelyan, M. & Osipov, F. & Bobrov, V. & Nazaarenko, E. & Dergunova, N. & Danielyan, F. (2018) -
Petrosyan, V.G. & Osipov, F. & Bobrov, V. & Dergunova, N. & Omelchenko, A. & Danielyan, F. & Arakelyan, M. (2020) -
An integrated approach for constructing maps of suitable habitats and ecological niches of parthenogenetic and their parental species of the genus Darevskiain the Caucasus is presented. It is shown that this approach is a powerful tool for analyzing species-specific requirements of lizards for the habitat and differentiating their niches in the multidimensional space of predictor variables.
Petrosyan, V.G. & Osipov, F. & Bobrov, V. & Dergunova, N. & Omelchenko, A. & Vashavskiy, A. & Danielyan, F. & Arakelyan, M. (2020) -
Petrosyan, V.G. & Osipov, F.A. & Bobrov, V.V. & Dergunoiva, N.N. & Danielyan, F.D. & Arakelyan, M.S. (2019) -
During field survey in 2018, we recorded in Armenia the occurrences of the parthenogenetic lizard Darevskia arme¬niaca and its “paternal” bisexual species D. valentini. Based on our new data and records taken from publications and museums, we update the distribution maps of these species. The new records expand the geographical boundaries of sympatric habitats of these species and provide additional data for understanding the mechanisms of reticulate evolution and hybrid speciation.
Petrosyan, V.G. & Osipov, F.A. & Bobrov, V.V. & Dergunova, N.N. & Kropachev, I.I. & Danielyan, F.D. & Arakelyan, M.S. (2020) -
Caucasian rock lizards of the genus Darevskia are unique taxa, including both bisexual and parthenogenetic species. The parthenogenetic species have originated as a result of natural hybridisation between females and males of different bisexual species. The species involved in interspecific hybridisation are called parental. However, sympatric zones (SZ) of unisexual and bisexual rock lizards of the Caucasus are still poorly studied, although they are very important for understanding the role of hybrid individuals of different origin in reticulate evolution. This paper presents the location of the SZs of parthenogenetic and their parental bisexual rock lizards of the genus Darevskia in Armenia and adjacent territories of Georgia and Nagorno-Karabakh. We summarised the locations of the SZs identified from 1957 to the present, based on our field survey data gathered in 2018-2019 and records from publications and museum collections. This dataset includes 39 SZs of three types: SZ of parental bisexual species, SZ of parental species with unisexual species and SZ of the parthenogenetic species. For each zone, species composition, geographical and altitudinal distribution are presented. New records expand our knowledge of the geographical and altitudinal distribution of SZs in these species and provide additional data for understanding the mechanisms of reticulate evolution and hybridogeneous speciation in the past, present and future.
Petrosyan, V.G. & Osipov, F.A. & Bobrov, V.V. & Dergunova, N.N. & Nazarenko, E. & Omelchenko, A. & Danielyan, F.D: & Arakelyan, M.S. (2019) -
Studies of geographical distribution of parthenogenetic Darevskia armeniaca and its parental species D. mixta and D. valentini can extend our knowledge in terms of their biology and prediction of expansion of their ranges owing to increasing anthropogenic impact and global climate change. We studied the rock lizards of the genus Darevskia because their ecology, biology and potential ranges have not been well studied. Our objectives were: (1) to create maps of the potential geographical distribution of the lizard species; (2) to identify bioclimatic, topographic and landscape variables that determine their potential ranges; (3) to establish similarities and differences in ecological conditions of lizard localities between the parthenogenetic lizard and its parental species. We extended the available published data set with our own field survey records to assess effects of environmental factors on ecological niches of the lizards and their distribution in Transcaucasia and Asia Minor using methods of ordination and species distribution models (SDMs). Our results show that the main drivers regulating the distribution of Darevskia spp. are climatic, topographic and land cover/use. High SDM performance estimated as a Boyce index ~0.917 proved that we had incorporated the most important predictor variables for describing ecological niches of the lizard species. We used an ordination method to compare niches in terms of their overlap, similarity, and niche shifts of the parthenogenetic species relative to its parental species. Habitat preference of D. mixta was determined by altitude, vegetation type, high precipitation during the warmest season, low humidity variation, and low insolation. Habitats of D. valentini were predicted to be located at the highest altitude in the zone of subalpine meadows, low temperature during the dry months, low precipitation during the warm months, an average coefficient of seasonal variation in humidity, high insolation, and a short distance to roads. We suggest that the centroid of the niche of the “daughter” species, D. armeniaca, occupies an intermediate position along environmental gradients relative to that of its parental species with only one exclusion. The coefficient of humidity variation in D. armeniaca differed from that of its parental species. In general, we predicted that ecological niches of parthenogenetic and parental species overlapped by 36%, however, the ecological niche of D. armeniaca was similar to that of its “paternal” species D. valentini. We demonstrate that the parthenogenetic D. armeniaca prefers mountain forest, meadow, steppe and human-disturbed habitats, while the “maternal” species D. mixta inhabits mainly forest habitats and the “paternal” species D. valentini commonly occurs in mountain meadow and mountain steppe habitats in the subalpine zone. These results can be used by environment conservation organizations to preserve the most important habitats of these lizards.
Petrosyan, V.G. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Malysheva, D.N. & Ryskov, A.P. (2003) -
Methods of estimating within- and between-population gene diversity in parthenogenetic species using mini- and microsatellite DNA markers and modified Wright`s F ST statistic are presented with special reference to model populations of lizards of the genus Darevskia(D. dahli, D. armeniaca, D. unisexualis). We used DNA fingerprinting data for several populations of these species examined earlier. The effects of variation in M13 minisatellite, (GACA) n - and (TCC) n -microsatellite loci on the formation of within-population gene diversity in parthenogenetic species D. dahli and D. armeniaca were shown to be different. The equality of the realized gene diversity Hand its maximum possible value H max in two populations of D. dahli (H max = 0.032, H = 0.031, P 0.0431; H max = 0.024, H = 0.027, P = 0.09) and D. armeniaca (H max = 0.05, H = 0.053, P = 0.03; H max= 0.054, H = 0.055, P= 0.02) suggests that variation in (GACA) n loci substantially contributes to the maintenance of within-population genetic diversity. Analysis of between-population genetic diversity using loci M13, (GACA) n , and (TCC) n showed differentiation of D. dahli populations from northeastern and northwestern Armenia (F ST = 0.0272, P = 3 × 10–13) and genetic homogeneity of the Armenian and introduced to the Ukraine populations of D. armeniaca characteristic of one clone (F ST = 0, P = 1).
Петросян В.Г., Токарская О.Н., Малышева Д.Н., Рысков А.П. (2003) -
Представлены методы оценки внутрипопуляционного и межпопуляционного генного разнообразия для партеногенетических видов на примере модельных популяций ящериц рода Darevskia (D. dahli, D. armeniaca, D. unisexualis) на основе минисателлитных и микросателлитных маркеров ДНК и модифицированной ^ 8Х-статистики Райта. Использованы ДНК-фингерпринтные данные для нескольких ранее изученных популяций. Показана различная степень влияния изменчивости М13-миниса-теллитных, (GACA) n- и (ХСС) п-микросателлитных локусов на формирование внутрипопуляционного генного разнообразия у партеновидов D. dahli и D. armeniaca. Так, равенство реализованного генного разнообразия H и максимально возможного его значения H max для двух популяций D. dahli (H max = 0.032, H=0.031; P < 0.0431; H max = 0.024, H = 0.027; P = 0.09) и D. armeniaca (H max = 0.05, H = 0.053; P = 0.03; H max = 0.054, H = 0.055; P = 0.02) указывает на значительный вклад изменчивости (GACA) n локусов в поддержание внутрипопуляционного генного разнообразия. Анализ межпопуляционного генного разнообразия на основе изменчивости М13, (GACA) n и (TCC) n локусов указывает на дифференциацию популяций D. dahli северо-западной и северо-восточной Армении (F ST = 0.0272; P = = 3 х 10 -13) и генетическую однородность армянской и интродуцированной на Украину популяций D. armeniaca, характерную для одного клона (F ST = 0, P = 1).
Petrov, B.P. (2006) -
Petrov, B.P. (2007) -
The geographical position, mild climate, mountainous landscape, and habitat heterogeneity determine Bulgaria’s rich diversity of herpetofauna. Currently, 17 species of amphibians (20 subspecies) and 36 species of reptiles (45 subspecies) are known from Bulgaria. Due to its transitional position, Bulgaria lies at the southern or northern distribution limits of many species of amphibians and reptiles. Vertical distribution is presented for all species found in Bulgaria. The richest in terms of diversity and abundance are the areas below 400 m, where nearly 95 % of taxa occur. The geographical ranges of almost all amphibians and reptiles in Bulgaria are well-known, although on a local scale the information is often limited. Zoogeographical analysis demonstrates that amphibian species belong to nine chorotypes, of which the Eastern Mediterranean and the European chorotypes are represented with three species each. Out of the ten chorotypes recognized for the reptiles, 51.4 % of the species belong to the Eastern Mediterranean (25.7 %) and Turanian–Mediterranean (25.7 %) chorotypes. Only two subspecies are Bulgarian endemics (Salamandra salamandra beschkovi and Mediodactylus kotschyi rumelicus). Due to the high diversity and mosaic distribution of habitats in Bulgaria, the herpetofauna has a rather continuous occurrence and high relative abundance. Although 80 % of the Bulgarian herpetofauna is legally protected by the Biodiversity Protection Act (2002) and other conventions, some species are threatened through collection for trade or habitat changes due to construction. Several sites in the southern part of Bulgaria are very rich in herpetofauna (nine to ten species of amphibians and 19 to 21 species of reptiles).
Petrov, B.P. & Tzankov, N. & Strijbosch, H. & Popgeorgiev, G. & Beshkov, V. (2006) -
The Western Rhodopes (8732 km2) encompass vast forested areas and transborder mountain ridges up to 2191 m a.s.l between Bulgaria and Greece. The paper outlines all published herpetofaunal data for Bulgarian and Greek Western Rhodopes and supplements many original records. The herpetological diversity is remarkably high: 12 species of amphibians (4 tailed and 8 anurans) and 27 species of reptiles (2 tortoises, 2 terrapins, 12 lizards and 11 snakes). Altogether 34 species were found in the Bulgarian part, 32 were proved for the Greek part of the mountain. Two species of snakes, Typhlops vermicularis and Zamenis situla are considered extinct for the studied region. The most common and abundant amphibians are Salamandra salamandra, Rana temporaria, Rana graeca and Bufo bufo. The most widespread reptiles are Podarcis muralis, Lacerta viridis, Anguis fragilis, Natrix natrix and Coronella austriaca. Brief zoogeographical analysis and distribution maps for the majority of the species are provided. Herpetological conservation issues and threats are also discussed.
Petrovan, S.O. (2023) -
Arboreality can provide lizards with refuge from predators and a resource-rich environment, yet this behaviour is rarely observed in European lacertid species. The Madeiran Wall Lizard Teira dugesii is an adaptable species in its native and introduced range, reported to sometimes climb trees and bushes, but this remains largely anecdotal and insufficiently quantified. To better understand such arboreal behaviour, opportunistic and targeted repeated surveys were used to collect data on vegetation climbing by T. dugesii in Madeira and were then supplemented and compared with citizen science data extracted for this species across its range. As an additional comparison, the Guadarrama Wall Lizard Podarcis guadarramae, which has relatively similar ecology and is also known to sometimes climb trees, was also included with a similar number of citizen science records from the Iberian Peninsula. During field surveys in summer 2022, a total 10% (31 observations) out of the total 312 T. dugesii recorded were of individuals climbing trees and flowering shrubs in multiple locations, especially urban parks, but also in natural habitats. Contrary to previous literature reports, many arboreal observations were at substantial heights, of over 10 m in trees, yet the exact reasons for this behaviour and its ecological implications remain unclear. Community science data were abundant (T. dugesii 1161 records; P. guadarramae 1333 records) and included apparently arboreal records but these were difficult to interpret as height information was missing. Overall, T. dugesii appears significantly more arboreal than previously reported or compared to P. guadarramae, yet this behaviour remains mostly ignored. Future work could test the drivers and implications for this behaviour in different habitat types and populations.
Petzold, H.-G. (1960) -
Petzold, H.-G. (1966) -
Petzold, H.-G. (1972) -
Report is given on a totally-melanotic sand lizard (Lacerta a. agilis), captured in 1972 in a suburb of Berlin, with a brief account on the very few specimens of this rare muta- tion reported from central Europe up to--day.
Petzold, H.-G. (1973) -
Petzold, H.-G. (1976) -
Petzold, H.-G. (1977) -
Petzold, H.-G. (1978) -
Report is given on two findings of melanotic female Lacerta vivipara near the city of Berlin. One female gave birth to six young, five of them being melanotic like the mother, but the sixth of normal colouring.
Petzold, H.-G. (1981) -
Petzold, H.-G. (1982) -
Petzold, H.-G. & Wehner, W. (1965) -
Peveling, R. & Demba, S.A. (2003) -
Reptiles in arid and semiarid zones are frequently exposed to insecticides sprayed to control locusts and grasshoppers. We evaluated the toxicity and pathogenicity of new biological and chemical control agents to the fringe-toed lizard Acanthodactylus dumerili in Mauritania, West Africa. A mycoinsecticide based on spores of the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae var. acridum (isolate IMI 330189, Green Muscle®) was tested at high challenge concentrations, using three exposure routes. Thirty-minute inhalation exposure to 3.9 × 108 viable conidia/L had no adverse effect. Locomotor activity, feeding activity, food consumption, body weight, and liver-to-body weight ratio were similar among treatments. Gross necropsy revealed no pulmonary lesions, hyphal mats, clumps of spores, or other abnormalities associated with fungal infections. Oral exposure to an oil-miscible flowable concentrate administered at approximately 107 viable conidia/g body weight had no effect on locomotor activity, food consumption, and body weight of survivors. However, two of the treated lizards died within one week of exposure. Feeding activity (sexes pooled) and relative liver mass of female survivors were significantly reduced. This was also observed in lizards treated with deactivated (nonviable) conidia, indicating an inherent toxicity of the formulation. Limited necropsy examination at four weeks posttreatment revealed that one lizard treated with viable spores had developed a pulmonary mycetoma that contained a clump of viable spores and fungal mycelium. The toxicity of mycotoxins was tested by feeding mycosed nymphs of desert locust Schistocerca gregaria to lizards. An average consumption of 231 mg (females) or 260 mg (males) nymphs/g body weight showed no adverse effect for any of the endpoints. No risk due to the pathogen is anticipated at recommended field application rates. The second agent tested was fipronil (Adonis®), a phenylpyrazole insecticide. A single dose of 30 μg fipronil/g body weight was administered via contaminated prey or stomach instillation. The percentage of dead or moribund lizards at four weeks posttreatment was 62.5% in animals fed contaminated prey and 42.0% in gavaged animals. In both tests, survivors showed significantly reduced feeding activity, food consumption, body weight, and organ-to-body-weight ratios (liver and/or fat body). The high toxicity of fipronil to lizards was not previously known, suggesting that follow-up studies (e.g., subacute dietary tests) are needed to provide adequate data for risk assessment.
Pezin, M. (2017) -
Pfaff, J.R. (1943) -
Pfletschinger, H. (1967) -
Pfletschinger, H. (1980) -
Pham, A.V. & Pham, C.T. & Hoang, N.V. & Ziegler, T. & Nguyen, T.Q. (2017) -
Phelps, T. (1971) -
Phelps, T. (2000) -
Phelps, T. (2001) -
Pianka, E.R. (1971) -
From 12 to 18 species of desert lizards occur in ecologic sympatry on 10 study areas in the Kalahari desert of southern Africa. The number of species of diurnal lizards is similar to the number in the North American deserts, while the nocturnal component of the saurofauna is more comparable to that occurring in the Australian deserts. The between-habitat component of species density is similar in the American and the Kalahari deserts, but is markedly greater in the Australian desert. A variety of climatic and vegetational statistics are examined for the 10 areas, and correlations with lizard species density are discussed.
Pianka, E.R. (1986) -
Pianka, E.R. (1993) -
Piazzon, M. & Larrinaga, A.R. & Rodriguez-Pérez, J. & Latorre, L. & Navarro, L. & Santamaria, L. (2012) -
Aim We estimated the patterns of seed deposition provided by the eyed lizard, Timon lepidus, and valuated whether these patterns can be generalized across plant species with different traits (fruit and seed size) and spatial distributions. Location Monteagudo Island, Atlantic Islands National Park (north-western Spain). Methods We radio-tracked seven lizards for 14 days and estimated their home ranges using fixed kernels. We also geo-referenced all fruit-bearing individuals of four plant species dispersed by eyed lizards in the study area (Corema album, Osyris alba, Rubus ulmifolius and Tamus communis), measured the passage time of their seeds through the lizard gut, and estimated seed predation in four habitats (bare sand, grassland, shrub and gorse). Seed dispersal kernels were estimated using a combination of these data and were combined with seed predation probability maps to incorporate post-dispersal seed fate (‘seed survival kernels’). Results Median seed gut-passage times were around 52–98 h, with maximum values up to 250 h. Lizards achieved maximum displacement in their home ranges within 24–48 h. Seed predation was high (80–100% of seeds in 2 months), particularly under Corema shrub and gorse. Seed dispersal kernels showed a common pattern, with two areas of preferential seed deposition, but the importance of these varied among plant species. Interspecific differences among dispersal kernels were strongly reduced by post-dispersal seed predation; hence, seed survival kernels of the different plant species showed high auto- and pairwise-correlations at small distances (< 50 m). As a result, survival to post-dispersal seed predation increased with dispersal distance for O. alba and T. communis, but not for C. album. Main conclusions Seed dispersal by lizards was determined primarily by the interaction between the dispersers’ home ranges and the position of the fruit-bearing plants. As a result, seed rain shared a common template, but showed considerable variation among species, determined by their specific spatial context. Seed predation increased the spatial coherence of the seed rain of the different species, but also resulted in contrasting relationships between seed survival and dispersal distance, which may be of importance for the demogrfaphic and evolutionary processes of the plants.
Pica, A. & Della Corte, F. & Grimaldi, M.C. & D`Ippolito, S. (1986) -
The AA. have studied the morphocytochemistry of the blood cells and the hemopoiesis, on smears of circulating blood and bone marrow and on imprints of spleen of the common lizard [Podarcis s. sicula Raf.). The results are: in circulating blood, lymphocytes, plasmocytes, monocytes, neutrophilic granulotypes 1 and 2, eosinophilic granulocytes and thrombocytes are present; they show each its own morphological and cytochemical characteristics and do no present intermediate stages. Erythropoiesis occurs in bone marrow (but erythroblasts pass into circulating blood). From the cytophotometrical measures of DNA amount, performed on red cells, resulted that the percentage of duplicating cells decrease with the decreasing of the size of erythroblasts and therefore according to their maturation. In two specimens in which tail was cut to stimulate hemopoiesis, anaemia and increase of erythroblasts, both in peripheral blood and in bone marrow, were observed after 9-15 days since the tail cut. Granulocytopoiesis occurs in bone marrow through the stages of myeloblasts, promyelocytes and myelocytes. Lymphocytopoiesis occurs in spleen through the same stages of the other Vertebrates. Highest values of Hb, Ht, number of blood cells and hemopoiesis were observed in spring, while the lowest ones were observed in autumn and winter.
Piccoli, A.P. & Lorenzis, A. de & Luchenti, I. & Canestrari, L. (2019) -
The purpose of this study is to describe, for the LIPU Castel di Guido Oasis, within the Castel di Guido Farm, on the Roman coast, the different spatial distribution of the different species of reptiles that coexist in the area. The work also defines correlations between the presence of animals and the various environmental and vegetation types present. In the study area, Testudo hermanni is a species that has the feeding areas, as well as the deposition areas, in the prairies adjacent the plant formation of the Mediterranean maquis(within 5 meters). Hemidactylus turcicus and Tarentola mauritanica seem to have a localization exclusively in the context of anthropic structures. Chalcides chalcides and Podarcis siculus appear to be confined to prairie areas, while Podarcis muralis is associated with the presence of trees of high-trunk plant associations. For Lacerta bilineata, a correspondence is outlined for the areas with arboreal shrubby vegetation, especially close to more humid habitats. Among the snakes Hierophis viridiflavus appears to be an ubiquitous species, with the frequentation of different habitats in the same percentage; more localized appear Vipera aspis and Elaphe quatuorlineata, the first more linked to wooded areas with the presence of bushy and shrubby vegetal coverings, the second is often associated with the simultaneous presence of forests and water collections. In general it is confirmed, as regards the snake community, the importance of ecotonal and transitional zones. The work also highlights how the study area is important for the conservation of reptile populations in the Roman area.
Picó, G. et al. (2023) -
The horseshoe whip snake (Hemorrhois hippocrepis) is considered a species of recent introduction in the island of Mallorca (Balearic Islands), in contrast with Ibiza or Formentera where is catalogued as an invasive species. Since 2018, Servicio de Sanidad y Control de Fauna del Consorcio para la Recuperación de Fauna de las Islas Baleares in collaboration with Servicio de Protección de Especies of Conselleria de Medi Ambient i Territori, is carrying out the control of the horseshoe whip snake in Mallorca in areas of biological importance. These zones include areas of the Natura 2000 Network and/or areas where there is a presence of protected and/or endemic species. The aim of these campaigns is to control the density of the horseshoe whip snake to minimize its impact on wild species. During the 2022 campaign, a shed snakeskin was reported on the Illa dels Conills (the smallest islet of the Malgrats Islands), in the municipality of Calvià. After confirming this finding, we proceeded to prospect and place traps for the capture of snakes on the islet. The Illa dels Conils is located less than 200m from the coast, with an aera of about 10,000m2 and a maximum altitude of 30m. It is inhabited by endemic and catalogued species such as the Lilford’s wall lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) and the European storm petrel (Hydrobates pelagicus). Between May and November, a total of 10 traps were placed on the ground, with a the result of 1330 days of trapping and the capture of 6 horseshoe whip snakes. In addition, during this campaign two important findings were confirmed: (1) the absence of observations of the Lilford’s wall lizard on the islet, and (2) the predation of the horseshoe whip snake on the European storm petrel. Island ecosystems are one of the most fragile and threatened territories, usually hosting a greater biodiversity, as well as a greater number of endemic species. Therefore, they require special protection. Currently in Mallorca the number of introduced and invasive species is a growing concern, and highlights the need of implementing prevention measures and the necessary resources to be able to manage them properly.
Picornell Rico, A. & Ocón, J.A.C. & Terrasa, B. & Carrero, P.G. (2006) -
Picornell Rigo, A. & Castro Ocón, J.A. & Terrasa, B. & Carrero, P.G. (2006) -
Pieh, A. (2006) -
During a five weeks stay in Morocco in spring 1999 it was possible to find lizards at several different localities, and to document the animals by photography. The circumstances of the findings, and the localities where the findings of the Taxa Tarentola mauritanica, T. mauritanica juliae, Plyodactylus oudrii, Geckonia chazaliae, Saurodactylus mauritanicus, S. brosseti, Chamaeleo chamaeleon, Agama impalearis, Teira perspicillata chabanaudi, Podarcis (hispanica) vaucheri, Psammodromus algirus, Acanthodactylus lineomaculatus, A. maculatus, A. aureus, Chalcides occellatus subtypicus, C. mionecton trifasciatus, Eumeces algeriensis, E. algeriensis meridionalis, Blanus mettetali, Trogonophis wiegmanni took place, are mentioned.
Pieh, A. (2017) -
Pieh, A. & Klotz, M. & Plasinger, I. & Braitmayer, N. (2021) -
Die Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis LINNAEUS, 1758) ist unter den Eidechsen eine der am weitesten verbreiteten Arten Europas (Bischoff 1988). Auffällig in diesem Zusammenhang ist ihr nur lokales Auftreten in Italien (siehe Lapini et al. 1989, Corti & Lo Cascio 2002, Lapini & Dall’Asta, 2004 Sindaco et al. 2009). und das Fehlen der Art im Küstenbereich des Mittelmeers (z.b. Corti & Lo Cascio 2002, vgl. Karte in Bischoff 1988, Verbreitungskarte Lacerta agilis auf lacerta.de). Der Literatur sind aus drei, weit voneinander entfernt liegenden Provinzen Italiens entlang der Alpen Meldungen von Zauneidechsen zu entnehmen. Wobei die Frage ist, ob die Zauneidechse, wie von Rahmel (1991) angenommen, rezent in Südtirol (Alto Adige (Italien)) vorkommt oder historisch vorkam. Anhand einer Literaturrecherche, einer Recherche an Museumsmaterial, Auswertungen von Datenbanken und feldherpetologischer Begehungen wurde dieser Frage nachgegangen. Weiter wird der Frage nachgegangen, warum sich die Zauneidechse südlich des Alpenbogens nicht oder nur bedingt etablieren konnte. Der Mauereidechse Podarcis muralis (LAURENTI, 1768) wird in diesem Zusammenhang Bedeutung zugemessen.
Pieper, H. (1970) -
Pietersen, D.W. (2014) -
The herpetofauna of Mozambique remains poorly documented despite several recent surveys. This paper presents additional distribution records for a number of species from Mozambique, based on recent field excursions and older material at the Ditsong National Museum of Natural History. The new records suggest that a number of taxa are more widely distributed in southern Mozambique than is currently known while the additional material suggests that the taxonomy of some species requires further research.
Pietersen, D.W. & Pietersen, E.W. & Haacke, W.D. (2013) -
The herpetofauna of Mozambique remains poorly documented despite recent surveys. We present here the first report on the herpetofauna occurring in Parque Nacional de Banhine in Gaza Province. Four chelonian, 13 snake, one amphisbaenid, 16 lizard and 15 frog species were recorded in the park, while an additional six snake, five lizard and two frog taxa have been recorded in close proximity and probably also occur in the park. Numerous range extensions are recorded, and these are discussed in the light of our present knowledge of the distribution of herpetofauna in Mozambique.
Pieu, C. (1968) -
Pikalik, M. & Pipová, N. & Majláthová, V. & Majláth, I. (2021) -
Lateralization is one of the specific characteristics of animals, occurring in both invertebrates and vertebrates. Lateralization exists at two levels, individual level and population level. This research is focused on the individual- and population-level lateralization of the European green lizard (Lacerta viridis) under laboratory conditions. Lateralization was observed experimentally in a modified T-maze without the possibility of visual control by lizards. Lizards were stimulated by a piston from the caudal side to simulate a predator attack from behind. The numbers of left and right choices were evaluated. Statistical analysis confirmed no statistically significant difference in lateralization at both the individual and population levels. The absence or presence of autotomy suggests that non-biased lizards have a better chance of escape from a predator than left- or right-biased individuals. In the population of L. viridis studied by us, it seems that to be non-biased could be the best strategy to survive predator attacks.
Pikalik, M. & Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Majlathova, V. & Majlath, I. (2020) -
Habitat changes under the influence of natural or anthropogenic processes can significantly affect the survival of organisms. In general, natural changes are mostly stochastic in nature with less impact on the affected area, while human interventions are much more frequent and generally irreversible alternation of habitats. The Western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) is a medium-sized lizard that is less tolerant to environmental changes. Studying habitat use is essential for the future conservation of this species. Our research was conducted in the northern part of Italy in Parco Belgiardino, which is part of the southern Adda Park. The study area was selected because of its diversity of habitats and the strong population of L. bilineata. Habitats were codified as follows: isolated trees, anthropic area, forest, river coast, ecotone, shrubs, meadows, meadows with bushes. Observations were made using the Visual Encounter Survey method. The position of 146 individuals were recorded in total. Geographic analyses were performed using GIS. Data were analysed by logistic regression composition analysis. Logistic regression showed significant differences in selection among available habitats. The compositional analysis indicates a significant difference in habitat utilisation and a non-random habitat selection. Both statistical methods confirmed that ecotone is the preferred habitat of L. bilineata, probably because it includes various microhabitats, most importantly sunny regions for thermoregulation, and a greater variety of food sources.
Pikulik, M.M. & Baharev, V.A. & Kosov, S.V. (1988) -
Pillet, J.-M. (2007) -
Pillet, J.M. (1996) -
Die Herpetofauna der Follatères und des Rosel Dorénaz, Fully und Martigny, VS. -- Die Follatères im weiteren Sinn sind unter Wissenschaftlern wie Naturlieberhabern bekannt für ihren Artenreichtum. War die Flora dank den Arbeiten von Garns (1927bereits zu Jahrhundertbeginn Gegenstand detaillierter Studien, so wurde die Fauna bis heute nur teilweise erfasst. Neuere Untersuchungen von Zoologen haben diese Lücke nun teilweise geschlossen. Die Amphibien und Reptilien - oft unter der Bezeichnung Herpetofauna zusammengefasst - Wurden in dieser Region noch nicht umfassend bearbeitet. Zwar war das Vorkommen einiger Arten bekannt, ihre genaue Verbreitung und ökologischen Ansprüche blieben jedoch mangelhaft untersucht. Das Untersuchungsgebiet beherbergt 12 der 15 in der Schweiz heimischen Reptilienarten - ein für unser Land einzigartiger Artenreichtum. Die Amphibien sind mit 5 Arten vertreten. Die aufgrund dieser Studie vorgeschlagenen Schutzmassnahmen befinden sich in der Umsetzung. Sie wurden im Rahmen eines 1996 in Kraft getretenen Bewirtschaftungsplans festgelegt.
Pilorge, T. (1981) -
Pilorge, T. (1982) -
The diets of Lacerta vivipara and Rana temporaria were determined from the analysis of the stomach contents of individuals caught at the same time in the same place (Puy-de-Dôme, France). The diet of the common frog is more diversified, according to taxonomy as well as to the size of prey items. Besides, average length of prey captured by the frog (7.9 mm) is greater than that of the lizard (4.6 mm). Nevertheless the diet overlap index is much greater according to the later criterium than to taxonomic classification. Contrary to what has been shown in several cases where prey size is the main factor, trophic behaviour, hunting stratum and daily activity cycle- between others - play a great part in the separation of the trophic niches of the two studied populations. Finally, to evaluate the intensity of competition between the two species requires the determination of the availability of trophic resources as compared with the needs of predators.
The diet of Lacerta vivipara was estimated in the laboratory by determining the relationship between fecal production and food intake. Transposed to free-living individuals, this relationship between the daily consumption C in milligrams of dry weight and the total fresh weight of lizards in grams becomes C = 20.4 W0,85. By knowing the number of days during which lizards can eat, the assimilation rate, the weight increase, the mean weight of the tail, the rate of autotomy, and the weight of a brood, the individual energy budget has been established for each sex according to age. The proportion of the assimilated biomass used for growth reaches a peak in young lizards, then decreases regularly to a negligible degree in older animals. The energy used for reproduction is low at first in primiparous females but becomes three times as great in older females.
Pilorge, T. (1983) -
Pilorge, T. (1986) -
Since the recent discovery /V alverde, 1958/ of this Iberian endemic, with an area of distribution in the Alcaraz and Cazorla Mountains /provinces of Albacete and Jaen, respectively, Spain/, the few communications on the species have been dedicated main- ly to biometric and systematic aspects /Klemmer, 1960; Mertens and Wermuth, 1960; Bucholz, 1964/. Palacios et al. /1974/ contributed the first data on the reproduction of this lizard. The existence of a single egg-laying period /in the first half of July/, postulated in this paper on the basis of partial data of the activity period, was contra- dicted by the findings of Eikhorst et al. /1979/, who found young specimens of small size in the month of August and have suggested a different repro- ductive cycle. In the present communication, the variation of the genital tract throughout the acti- vity period was studied, data on egglaying were obtained and the age of the youngest spe- cimens was determined by the skeletochronologieal method to establish the species reproductive cycle and clarify the controversy` existing until now in the bibliography.
Pilorge, T. (1987) -
This paper presents data on demographic and reproductive characteristics of three very near montane populations of the European common lizard, all situated on the Mont Lozère (France) within a range of 15 km. Densities reach very high levels (400-1000 individuals per hectare) in comparison to other populations of the same species. Average snout-vent length of one population is noticeably greater than in the other two, especially in females (59.0 mm vs. 54.0 and 53.3 mm, respectively, in June 1984). The same population also exhibits a larger average litter size than the other two (7.6 young/female vs. 5.1 and 4.6, respectively), and females produce lighter neonates (168 mg vs. 179 and 181 mg). Important fluctuations in density are observed in one of the populations, with a biased sex ratio of about 2:1 in favor of females in the last one. The available data on physical constraints and trophic resources of the three biotopes suggest that density is mainly limited by the former factors, whereas reproductive tactics seem to be influenced by a more complex set of ecological factors. Among the latter are prey abundance and the degree of saturation of the physical environment, but climatic fluctuations also seem to play an important part through the limitation of the activity of lizards and consequently of the amount of energy they can ingest.
Pilorge, T. (1988) -
Pilorge, T. (1993) -
Pilorge, T. & Barbault, R. (1981) -
Pilorge, T. & Castanet, J. (1981) -
Pilorge, T. & Clobert, J. & Massot, M. (1987) -
Pilorge, T. & Xavier, F. & Barbault, R. (1983) -
We studied the relationships between litter size, litter weight, newborn weight, relative clutch mass and the female snout-vent length in some Lacerta vivipara populations over a period of three years. Litter size and litter weight were positively correlated with female snout-vent length in all the populations for all the years, as in most other lizard species. Relative clutch mass generally increased with female size, though correlations appear not to be very tight. Considering the two best studied populations suggests that montane females invest less in reproduction than lowland ones. The main reproductive traits of the species appeared highly variable between as well as within the different populations hitherto studied. We argue that current theory about lizard reproductive strategy requires, first to work out a good estimate of reproductive effort, and second to get more information about the relations between the species and their environmental, biotic and abiotic conditions.
Pilorge, Thierry & Xavier, F. (1981) -
Pinho, C. (2001) -
Iberian and North African Podarcis wall lizards constitute a cryptic species complex for which different morphological studies have produced largely conflicting results regarding the number, taxonomic rank and distribution of evolutionary entities. Recently, the assessment of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) diversity demonstrated the existence of highly differentiated and geographically consistent clusters, some of which corresponded neatly to partitions previously suggested by morphological analyses. As a result of this concordance, systematic reevaluations were carried out, and at present five different species are recognised: P. bocagei, P. carbonelli, P. vaucheri, P. hispanica and P. atrata, although the latter has been shown to be closely related to one of the various phylogroups that constitute the polytypic (and, from a mitochondrial DNA perspective, paraphyletic) P. hispanica. Given this framework, the first goal of this thesis was to characterize in more detail the dynamics of genetic differentiation among forms of this species complex. Previous descriptions of genetic variability within the complex relied on a single marker – mitochondrial DNA –, and biogeographical inferences were heavily dependent upon poorly supported estimates of relationships. On one hand, we aimed at obtaining a more robust mtDNA-based phylogenetic tree in order to validate previous hypotheses regarding the biogeographical processes governing variability within the clade. On the other hand, we sought to complement these data with information from the nuclear genome, in order to independently assess the distinctiveness of the various clades previously described. Additionally, by examining patterns of nuclear-mitochondrial concordance and analysing in detail the dynamics of a contact zone between two species, we were expecting to evaluate levels of reproductive isolation among forms of the species complex. The reevaluation of mitochondrial phylogenetic relationships was accomplished by selecting a few individuals from each lineage and extending the amount of included sequence data. In addition to the two mtDNA gene regions already published, we sequenced three other fragments, yielding a total of 2425bp. A robust phylogenetic tree was recovered, with a significant proportion of nodes receiving bootstrap support close to 100%. This rigorous assessment of mtDNA relationships between lineages confirmed some of the results obtained in previous studies, such as the paraphyly of P. hispanica. However, other aspects of the phylogeny differ, offering alternative scenarios for the timing and polarity of the colonization of North Africa by wall lizards. In particular, we suggest that the opening of the Strait of Gibraltar might have caused vicariant isolation of Iberian from North African forms, and that a subsequent transmarine colonization could have occurred from North Africa to Iberia. An additional important contribution of this study was the detection of a previously undescribed lineage inhabiting southern Spain, which further exemplifies the evolutionary complexity within this group. Two major lines of research were pursued regarding the description of nuclear gene variation: allozyme electrophoresis and sequencing of nuclear introns. The study of allozyme variation in 30 populations representing all known mtDNA lineages documented a high degree of genetic divergence between most of them, with groups within P. hispanica generally presenting similar levels of differentiation to those observed between fully recognised species. Although this constitutes evidence corroborating the validity of mtDNA lineages as evolutionary distinct units, the application of recent model-based clustering approaches revealed some important discordant patterns with respect to the mtDNA, which may be indicative of the occurrence of gene flow between forms. In this context, two hybrid individuals between the broadly sympatric P. bocagei and P. hispanica type 1 were detected. Summary viii Conversely, the study of two nuclear gene genealogies (β-fibint7 and 6-Pgdint7), demonstrated that, in general, species and mtDNA lineages are strikingly nonmonophyletic, which was unexpected given the high levels of differentiation detected by the use of other markers. An important issue that required clarification was, then, if this pattern emerged as the result of incomplete lineage sorting of ancestral polymorphism (motivated by the four-times higher effective population size of nuclear genes when compared to the mtDNA) or if it resulted from high levels of gene flow. In order to disentangle between these two non- mutually exclusive hypotheses, we estimated levels of gene flow between all pairs of lineages using recent methods of analyses based on coalescent theory that allow the study of the dynamics of admixture and divergence in the same framework. In contrast to the information obtained using classic, F-statistic-based estimators of gene flow, this approach revealed that only a few pairs of lineages have exchanged genes since their divergence, and even fewer show important levels of gene flow, suggesting that in general the various lineages are overall differentiated. Therefore, although gene flow has certainly played an important role in the evolution of the species complex (and as a result some mtDNA lineages may have even lost their nuclear identity), the polyphyletic pattern observed in nuclear genealogies is especially influenced by the persistence of ancestral polymorphism. These studies addressed the subject of gene flow among forms superficially, mostly based on the patterns of mitochondrial/nuclear discordance. In order to characterize in more detail the dynamics of gene flow, a battery of nuclear and mitochondrial markers was studied along a transect crossing the contact zone between P. bocagei and P. carbonelli. This information was complemented with analyses of morphology and fertility. Applying model-based individual multilocus genotype clustering approaches, we document abundance of individuals showing signs of admixture in the locality where the two species meet. However, strong Hardy-Weinberg and linkage disequilibria were observed. This clear bimodality suggests the existence of strong barriers to gene flow, the nature of which still remain obscure. For example, our data suggests neither obvious reductions in hybrid fertility nor the verification of Haldane’s rule. However, divergent natural selection acting on morphology is suggested by the fact that genetically admixed individuals are clearly assigned to one species or the other based on morphological characters. Bimodality within a hybrid zone is usually suggestive of a nearly complete process of speciation; while these results cannot be promptly generalized to other contact zones, they are in accordance with previous suggestions that, although Podarcis lineages are not fully reproductive isolated, levels of gene flow among them do not seem to challenge the ongoing process of differentiation. A second major goal of this thesis was to describe the phylogeographic structure within selected forms of the species complex using multiple molecular markers. In particular, we attempted to evaluate the response of the species to the Pleistocene climatic oscillations, comparing the patterns detected with phylogeographic scenarios described for other species occupying the same regions, and interpreting contrasting signatures left by the Ice Ages on distinct species of Podarcis. The study of mtDNA variation in P. bocagei, P. carbonelli and P. vaucheri, three species with parapatric distributions that replace each other along a latitudinal gradient, allowed us to test two predictions relative to the differential influence of Quaternary climatic oscillations on distinct latitudes: i) northerly distributed species are expected to bear lower levels of genetic subdivision and diversity than species distributed in the south because they were able to survive in fewer, smaller and less stable patches of favourable habitat during glaciations; ii) species distributed in the south should retain signs of long-term effective population size stability, while northern species, because they were more Summary ix confined during glacial stages, should have experienced a rapid demographic growth concomitant with a post-glacial colonization of newly available habitats. Our results show that P. bocagei presents remarkably low levels of diversity and subdivision, a shallow coalescent history (the estimated coalescence time was ~100,000-~70,000 years) and a strong signature of demographic growth. P. vaucheri, on the other hand, presents large levels of genetic diversity even at small geographic scales, strong geographic subdivision, no evidence of demographic growth and an ancient coalescence time, probably dating back to the initial stages of the Pleistocene. The intermediately distributed P. carbonelli presents average values of all studied variables. Taken together, these results entirely fit to our main predictions and demonstrate that different effects of the Ice Ages can be detected at small geographic scales. The analyses of nuclear markers (allozymes and a set of microsatellite loci specifically developed during this study) in populations of P. bocagei and P. carbonelli confirmed, on one hand, the low levels of population subdivision observed in both species from the study of mitochondrial DNA. Moreover, levels of differentiation are higher among populations of P. carbonelli than among populations of P. bocagei, which is also in accordance with higher levels of persistence and a consequent longer time for differentiation in the former inferred from mtDNA. In P. bocagei, we report a progressive loss of genetic diversity in a northwards fashion, consistent with a recent geographic expansion from a reduced source as suspected from mtDNA-based evidence of a rapid demographic growth. Moreover, based on a spatial interpolation of genetic data and on a Bayesian model-based multilocus genotype clustering algorithm, we were able to identify probable expansion routes and to pinpoint with some degree of certainty the area that has probably functioned as a glacial refugium for the species during the last glaciations. Applying the same methodology in P. carbonelli we document some degree of association between genetic clusters and geography, but with only partial correspondence to inferences based on mtDNA; to explain these discordant patterns, we hypothesise that recent fragmentations in the species’ distribution might have led to a loss of the genetic signatures that are typically found in co-distributed species, and that the patterns that are presently observed are more a byproduct of recent genetic drift than of Pleistocene climatic oscillations. Globally, these results constitute a major improvement regarding previous knowledge on evolutionary relationships, stages of differentiation, levels of gene flow and patterns of intraspecific subdivision in Iberian and North African Podarcis. At a more general level, the large-scale study of nuclear gene variation on these lizards, documenting polyphyly and gene flow among mtDNA lineages, illustrates that these correspond to very incipient species with permeable boundaries, highlighting the need for the assessment of multiple genetic markers prior to any taxonomic reevaluations. Moreover, the results have a double importance for the understanding of the Iberian and North African Quaternary biogeography: on one hand, by helping to confirm the transversality of patterns that appear in response to climatic fluctuations, such as glacial fragmentation and post-glacial expansion; on the other hand, by documenting how species-specific such patterns may be even among closely-related species.
Pinho, C. (2002) -
Pinho, C. (2007) -
Iberian and North African Podarcis wall lizards constitute a cryptic species complex for which different morphological studies have produced largely conflicting results regarding the number, taxonomic rank and distribution of evolutionary entities. Recently, the assessment of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) diversity demonstrated the existence of highly differentiated and geographically consistent clusters, some of which corresponded neatly to partitions previously suggested by morphological analyses. As a result of this concordance, systematic reevaluations were carried out, and at present five different species are recognised: P. bocagei, P. carbonelli, P. vaucheri, P. hispanica and P. atrata, although the latter has been shown to be closely related to one of the various phylogroups that constitute the polytypic (and, from a mitochondrial DNA perspective, paraphyletic) P. hispanica. Given this framework, the first goal of this thesis was to characterize in more detail the dynamics of genetic differentiation among forms of this species complex. Previous descriptions of genetic variability within the complex relied on a single marker – mitochondrial DNA –, and biogeographical inferences were heavily dependent upon poorly supported estimates of relationships. On one hand, we aimed at obtaining a more robust mtDNA-based phylogenetic tree in order to validate previous hypotheses regarding the biogeographical processes governing variability within the clade. On the other hand, we sought to complement these data with information from the nuclear genome, in order to independently assess the distinctiveness of the various clades previously described. Additionally, by examining patterns of nuclear-mitochondrial concordance and analysing in detail the dynamics of a contact zone between two species, we were expecting to evaluate levels of reproductive isolation among forms of the species complex. The reevaluation of mitochondrial phylogenetic relationships was accomplished by selecting a few individuals from each lineage and extending the amount of included sequence data. In addition to the two mtDNA gene regions already published, we sequenced three other fragments, yielding a total of 2425bp. A robust phylogenetic tree was recovered, with a significant proportion of nodes receiving bootstrap support close to 100%. This rigorous assessment of mtDNA relationships between lineages confirmed some of the results obtained in previous studies, such as the paraphyly of P. hispanica. However, other aspects of the phylogeny differ, offering alternative scenarios for the timing and polarity of the colonization of North Africa by wall lizards. In particular, we suggest that the opening of the Strait of Gibraltar might have caused vicariant isolation of Iberian from North African forms, and that a subsequent transmarine colonization could have occurred from North Africa to Iberia. An additional important contribution of this study was the detection of a previously undescribed lineage inhabiting southern Spain, which further exemplifies the evolutionary complexity within this group. Two major lines of research were pursued regarding the description of nuclear gene variation: allozyme electrophoresis and sequencing of nuclear introns. The study of allozyme variation in 30 populations representing all known mtDNA lineages documented a high degree of genetic divergence between most of them, with groups within P. hispanica generally presenting similar levels of differentiation to those observed between fully recognised species. Although this constitutes evidence corroborating the validity of mtDNA lineages as evolutionary distinct units, the application of recent model-based clustering approaches revealed some important discordant patterns with respect to the mtDNA, which may be indicative of the occurrence of gene flow between forms. In this context, two hybrid individuals between the broadly sympatric P. bocagei and P. hispanica type 1 were detected. Conversely, the study of two nuclear gene genealogies (β-fibint7 and 6-Pgdint7), demonstrated that, in general, species and mtDNA lineages are strikingly non- monophyletic, which was unexpected given the high levels of differentiation detected by the use of other markers. An important issue that required clarification was, then, if this pattern emerged as the result of incomplete lineage sorting of ancestral polymorphism (motivated by the four-times higher effective population size of nuclear genes when compared to the mtDNA) or if it resulted from high levels of gene flow. In order to disentangle between these two non- mutually exclusive hypotheses, we estimated levels of gene flow between all pairs of lineages using recent methods of analyses based on coalescent theory that allow the study of the dynamics of admixture and divergence in the same framework. In contrast to the information obtained using classic, F-statistic-based estimators of gene flow, this approach revealed that only a few pairs of lineages have exchanged genes since their divergence, and even fewer show important levels of gene flow, suggesting that in general the various lineages are overall differentiated. Therefore, although gene flow has certainly played an important role in the evolution of the species complex (and as a result some mtDNA lineages may have even lost their nuclear identity), the polyphyletic pattern observed in nuclear genealogies is especially influenced by the persistence of ancestral polymorphism. These studies addressed the subject of gene flow among forms superficially, mostly based on the patterns of mitochondrial/nuclear discordance. In order to characterize in more detail the dynamics of gene flow, a battery of nuclear and mitochondrial markers was studied along a transect crossing the contact zone between P. bocagei and P. carbonelli. This information was complemented with analyses of morphology and fertility. Applying model-based individual multilocus genotype clustering approaches, we document abundance of individuals showing signs of admixture in the locality where the two species meet. However, strong Hardy-Weinberg and linkage disequilibria were observed. This clear bimodality suggests the existence of strong barriers to gene flow, the nature of which still remain obscure. For example, our data suggests neither obvious reductions in hybrid fertility nor the verification of Haldane’s rule. However, divergent natural selection acting on morphology is suggested by the fact that genetically admixed individuals are clearly assigned to one species or the other based on morphological characters. Bimodality within a hybrid zone is usually suggestive of a nearly complete process of speciation; while these results cannot be promptly generalized to other contact zones, they are in accordance with previous suggestions that, although Podarcis lineages are not fully reproductive isolated, levels of gene flow among them do not seem to challenge the ongoing process of differentiation. A second major goal of this thesis was to describe the phylogeographic structure within selected forms of the species complex using multiple molecular markers. In particular, we attempted to evaluate the response of the species to the Pleistocene climatic oscillations, comparing the patterns detected with phylogeographic scenarios described for other species occupying the same regions, and interpreting contrasting signatures left by the Ice Ages on distinct species of Podarcis. The study of mtDNA variation in P. bocagei, P. carbonelli and P. vaucheri, three species with parapatric distributions that replace each other along a latitudinal gradient, allowed us to test two predictions relative to the differential influence of Quaternary climatic oscillations on distinct latitudes: i) northerly distributed species are expected to bear lower levels of genetic subdivision and diversity than species distributed in the south because they were able to survive in fewer, smaller and less stable patches of favourable habitat during glaciations; ii) species distributed in the south should retain signs of long-term effective population size stability, while northern species, because they were more confined during glacial stages, should have experienced a rapid demographic growth concomitant with a post-glacial colonization of newly available habitats. Our results show that P. bocagei presents remarkably low levels of diversity and subdivision, a shallow coalescent history (the estimated coalescence time was ~100,000-~70,000 years) and a strong signature of demographic growth. P. vaucheri, on the other hand, presents large levels of genetic diversity even at small geographic scales, strong geographic subdivision, no evidence of demographic growth and an ancient coalescence time, probably dating back to the initial stages of the Pleistocene. The intermediately distributed P. carbonelli presents average values of all studied variables. Taken together, these results entirely fit to our main predictions and demonstrate that different effects of the Ice Ages can be detected at small geographic scales. The analyses of nuclear markers (allozymes and a set of microsatellite loci specifically developed during this study) in populations of P. bocagei and P. carbonelli confirmed, on one hand, the low levels of population subdivision observed in both species from the study of mitochondrial DNA. Moreover, levels of differentiation are higher among populations of P. carbonelli than among populations of P. bocagei, which is also in accordance with higher levels of persistence and a consequent longer time for differentiation in the former inferred from mtDNA. In P. bocagei, we report a progressive loss of genetic diversity in a northwards fashion, consistent with a recent geographic expansion from a reduced source as suspected from mtDNA-based evidence of a rapid demographic growth. Moreover, based on a spatial interpolation of genetic data and on a Bayesian model-based multilocus genotype clustering algorithm, we were able to identify probable expansion routes and to pinpoint with some degree of certainty the area that has probably functioned as a glacial refugium for the species during the last glaciations. Applying the same methodology in P. carbonelli we document some degree of association between genetic clusters and geography, but with only partial correspondence to inferences based on mtDNA; to explain these discordant patterns, we hypothesise that recent fragmentations in the species’ distribution might have led to a loss of the genetic signatures that are typically found in co-distributed species, and that the patterns that are presently observed are more a by- product of recent genetic drift than of Pleistocene climatic oscillations. Globally, these results constitute a major improvement regarding previous knowledge on evolutionary relationships, stages of differentiation, levels of gene flow and patterns of intraspecific subdivision in Iberian and North African Podarcis. At a more general level, the large-scale study of nuclear gene variation on these lizards, documenting polyphyly and gene flow among mtDNA lineages, illustrates that these correspond to very incipient species with permeable boundaries, highlighting the need for the assessment of multiple genetic markers prior to any taxonomic reevaluations. Moreover, the results have a double importance for the understanding of the Iberian and North African Quaternary biogeography: on one hand, by helping to confirm the transversality of patterns that appear in response to climatic fluctuations, such as glacial fragmentation and post-glacial expansion; on the other hand, by documenting how species-specific such patterns may be even among closely-related species.
Pinho, C. (2008) -
Pinho, C. & Corti, C. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. (2004) -
Pinho, C. & Ferrand, N. (2001) -
Pinho, C. & Ferrand, N. & Harris, D.J. (2004) -
Recent studies based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence data suggest that Podarcis hispanica is a species complex, with several genetically distinct lineages identified. Where morphological data is available these genetic lineages are congruent with small but significant morphological differences. However for many populations the only data available has been from mtDNA sequences. This can be misleading due to a variety of reasons, for example incomplete lineage sorting or occurrence of introgression. It is therefore important to corroborate the mtDNA evidence with data from the nuclear genome. We have recently shown that genetic polymorphism of 11 allozyme loci is concordant with the identified lineages from mtDNA. Here we extend this analysis by including additional populations. Our results confirm that P. (hispanica) vaucheri also occurs in the Iberian Peninsula, and is highly differentiated from Podarcis in Tunisia. We further identify two distinct clades within P. hispanica “morphotype 1”, indicating that even within morphologically identified lineages there may be further cryptic species.
Pinho, C. & Ferrand, N. & Harris, D.J. (2006) -
Pinho, C. & Harris, D.J. & Ferrand, N. (2001) -
In the study of recently diverged species, analyses of mitochondrial DNA variation have shown to be useful in identifying major lineages and establishing evolutionary hypotheses. However, it has been widely demonstrated that such single locus perspectives may be erroneous or provide an over-simplified realization of the processes underlying species divergence. Iberian and North African wall lizards (Podarcis) constitute a cryptic species complex for which previous assessments of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and allozyme variation have been published. Albeit concordant in describing the existence of several highly differentiated evolutionary units, some of which are currently accepted as different species, previous studies on mitochondrial and nuclear gene variation showed some important differences that suggested that gene flow may have occurred among these forms. To further understand the level of differentiation, evolutionary relationships and overall evolutionary dynamics among Podarcis species, we studied sequence variation at two nuclear introns, β-fibint7 and 6- Pgdint7, from individuals representing all known mtDNA lineages. Both nuclear gene genealogies reveal a striking absence of monophyly of mtDNA-defined species and a general lack of branching patterns presenting signs of concordance with those suggested by mtDNA. Because a mere lack of resolution due to the absence of variation cannot be invoked to explain discordant evolutionary relationships portrayed by different markers, only two non-mutually exclusive scenarios could account for the species polyphyly: persistence of ancestral polymorphism and high levels of gene flow among forms. To discriminate between the effects of these factors, we estimated migration rates among mtDNA-defined lineages using both classic estimators of gene flow, which do not take into account the possibility of ancestral polymorphism sharing, and a coalescent-based multilocus approach that simulates a model of divergence with gene flow. Both classes of estimates suggested very different levels of gene flow: overall non-zero introgression in the case of classic estimators and virtually zero gene flow between most (but not all) species pairs in the case of coalescent estimates. This suggests that although gene flow among forms may have occurred, the main cause for species polyphyly is incomplete lineage sorting of ancestral polymorphism, thus suggesting that most forms have not exchanged genes since their divergence. This is therefore in accordance with previous reports of strong isolation based on mtDNA and allozyme data. Nevertheless, a few cases of confirmed gene flow between species were detected, of which only two, previously reported in other studies, indicate important amounts of admixture between species. Taken together, these results constitute further evidence validating most forms of Iberian and North African Podarcis as differentiated, although incipient, species.
Podarcis bocagei and P. carbonelli are two Iberian-endemic wall lizard species for which a detailed phylogeographic study based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation has been accomplished, showing that the two species responded differently to climatic oscillations during the Quaternary. In this study, our main goal was to assess whether nuclear markers reveal similar evolutionary patterns to those inferred from the study of mtDNA variation. We studied a battery of allozyme and microsatellite loci in populations from both species. For each species we evaluated overall levels of differentiation, the patterns of variation in genetic variability, genetic relationships among populations, changes in allele frequencies across the species’ distribution area and applied model-based individual multilocus genotype clustering approaches to detect hidden population structure. Our results for Podarcis bocagei are highly concordant with the phylogeographic scenario inferred from mtDNA variation: not only we find very low levels of population differentiation, consistent with survival in a single glacial refugium, but we detect signatures of a rapid demographic and geographic expansion, as suggested from mtDNA analyses. The analyses of nuclear markers furthermore helped in the identification of the probable refugial area, as well of expansion routes. Also with similarity to observations based on mtDNA variation, a low level of population differentiation was observed in P. carbonelli. In concordance with mitochondrial DNA, differentiation levels were slightly higher in P. carbonelli than those observed in P. bocagei. However, the geographic basis for differentiation in P. carbonelli is highly inconsistent between mtDNA and nuclear markers, suggesting a complex, albeit recent, history of isolation. Furthermore, a recent reduction on the species distribution has probably erased the signatures of glacial isolation and postglacial expansion that are normally found in other Iberian species, suggesting that the currently observed pattern of genetic differentiation in this species was shaped more by recent genetic drift than by the Pleistocene climatic oscillations.
Pinho, C. & Harris, D.J. & Ferrand, N. (2003) -
The taxonomy of Iberian and North African wall lizards (Podarcis sp.) has been controversial. Recently, morphological and mtDNA sequence data have provided new information on differentiation within these lacertids. To compare these results to those provided by nuclear markers, we investigated variation at 11 polymorphic protein loci using conventional electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing in 11 populations belonging to seven different mtDNA lineages. A total of 62 alleles were found. Populations belonging to the same mtDNA type presented high genetic similarity, whereas strong differentiation was observed between groups. These results are consistent with those previously obtained from morphological and mtDNA analysis and support the idea that Iberian and North African Podarcis are composed of several well-differentiated entities, some of which are already recognized as species, whereas others (belonging to the P. hispanica complex) clearly need taxonomic revision.
Pinho, C. & Harris, D.J. & Ferrand, N. (2007) -
The systematics of Iberian and North African wall lizards (Podarcis) has been a long-standing matter of debate due to complex variation in morphological patterns. These lizards have been recently suggested to be a species complex by mtDNA phylogenetic analyses. In this study, we increased mtDNA sequencing up to 2425bp in order to obtain more accurate estimates of phylogenetic relationships and compared this to nuclear variation, analysed by protein electrophoresis (10 polymorphic loci) and sequencing of two introns. Despite the broad agreement of allozyme data with mtDNA in defining evolutionary units, variation in nuclear introns is characterised by incomplete lineage sorting of ancestral polymorphism, probably coupled with present gene flow, suggesting that the various forms of Podarcis are only incipient species and reproductive isolation may have not been completely achieved. In order to test this hypothesis we selected as case-study a contact zone between two parapatric forms to evaluate the magnitude of gene flow. The study of mtDNA and a battery of 15 nuclear loci, analysed through recent model-based individual clustering methods, revealed that although there are unequivocal evidences of hybridization, this is a clearly bimodal hybrid zone, suggesting the existence of barriers against gene flow and an incipient stage of reproductive isolation.
The aim of this study was to test simple biogeographic predictions related to the differential influence of the Ice Ages according to the latitude: (i) northerly distributed species should have experienced a greater loss of suitable habitat, resulting in higher lineage extinction, than species distributed in southern latitudes. This would be reflected in lower diversity and number of differentiated lineages in northern areas. (ii) a signature of demographic expansion following the climate amelioration should be obvious in northern species, contrasting to evidence of long-term effective population size stability in the south. We used as models for this study three species of wall lizards (Podarcis bocagei, P. carbonelli and P. vaucheri) which replace each other along a latitudinal gradient. Our results based on mitochondrial DNA variation show that P. bocagei presents remarkably low levels of diversity and subdivision, a shallow coalescent history and a strong signature of demographic growth. P. vaucheri, on the other hand, presents large levels of genetic diversity, strong geographic subdivision, no evidence of demographic growth and an ancient coalescence time, probably dating back to the initial stages of the Pleistocene. The intermediately distributed P. carbonelli presents average values of all studied variables. Taken together, these results entirely fit to our main predictions and demonstrate that the effects of the Ice Ages were indeed different according to the latitude. Additionally we analysed a battery of nuclear markers in P. bocagei and P. carbonelli in order to study in more detail these species’ evolutionary history and validate phylogeographic hypotheses suggested by the study of mtDNA.
Pleistocene climatic oscillations were a major force shaping genetic variability in many taxa. We analyse the relative effects of the ice ages across a latitudinal gradient in the Western Mediterranean region, testing two main predictions: (i) species with historical distributions in northern latitudes should have experienced greater loss of suitable habitat, resulting in higher extinction of historical lineages than species distributed in southern latitudes, where the effects of the ice ages were not as drastic. This would be reflected in the observation of lower diversity and number of differentiated lineages in northern areas. (ii) a signature of demographic expansion following the climate amelioration should be obvious in northern species, whereas in the south evidence of long-term effective population size stability should be observed. We used as models three species of wall lizards (Podarcis bocagei, Podarcis carbonelli and Podarcis vaucheri) that replace each other along the study area. We investigated the patterns of mitochondrial DNA diversity and subdivision and obtained demographic parameter estimates for each species. Our results suggest that P. bocagei, the northernmost species, bears low genetic diversity, a shallow coalescent history and marks of a demographic expansion. In contrast, P. vaucheri, the species with a southernmost distribution, shows deeper coalescence events, complex geographical substructure and no evidence for population growth. The species with an intermediate distribution, P. carbonelli, shows average levels of diversity, substructure and population growth. Taken together, these results conform to our main predictions and are explained by a differential influence of the ice ages on distinct latitudes.
Combining different sources of information is essential for a complete understanding of the process of genetic dif- ferentiation between species. The Iberian and North African wall lizard ( Podarcis ) species complex has been the object of several studies regarding morphological and mitochondrial DNA variation but, so far, no large-scale survey of nuclear variation within this group has been accomplished. In this study, ten polymorphic allozyme loci were stud- ied in 569 individuals collected across the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa. The obtained data were analysed using both conventional population genetic tools and recent Bayesian model-based clustering methods. Our results show that there are several well-differentiated entities corroborating the major splits observed in mtDNA analyses. These groups correspond not only to the fully recognized species Podarcis bocagei , Podarcis carbonelli , and Podarcis vaucheri but also to multiple forms within the polytypic Podarcis hispanica , all of which have a similar level of dif- ferentiation to that observed between the acknowledged species. However, relationships between forms are weakly supported both by population and individual clustering methods, suggesting a scenario of a rapid diversification that contrasts to the clear bifurcating model assumed from previous mtDNA analyses. Individual multilocus analyses report few individuals misassigned or apparently admixed, some of which are most likely explained by the persis- tence of high levels of ancestral polymorphism. Other admixed individuals, however, are probably the result of lim- ited levels of gene flow between forms.
Pinho, C. & Harris, D.J. & Ferrand, N. (2008) -
Background: The study of recently-diverged species offers significant challenges both in the definition of evolutionary entities and in the estimation of gene flow among them. Iberian and North African wall lizards (Podarcis) constitute a cryptic species complex for which previous assessments of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and allozyme variation are concordant in describing the existence of several highly differentiated evolutionary units. However, these studies report important differences suggesting the occurrence of gene flow among forms. Here we study sequence variation in two nuclear introns, β-fibint7 and 6-Pgdint7, to further investigate overall evolutionary dynamics and test hypotheses related to species delimitation within this complex. Results: Both nuclear gene genealogies fail to define species as monophyletic. To discriminate between the effects of incomplete lineage sorting and gene flow in setting this pattern, we estimated migration rates among species using both FST-based estimators of gene flow, which assume migration-drift equilibrium, and a coalescent approach based on a model of divergence with gene flow. Equilibrium estimates of gene flow suggest widespread introgression between species, but coalescent estimates describe virtually zero admixture between most (but not all) species pairs. This suggests that although gene flow among forms may have occurred the main cause for species polyphyly is incomplete lineage sorting, implying that most forms have been isolated since their divergence. This observation is therefore in accordance with previous reports of strong differentiation based on mtDNA and allozyme data. Conclusion: These results corroborate most forms of Iberian and North African Podarcis as differentiated, although incipient, species, supporting a gradual view of speciation, according to which species may persist as distinct despite some permeability to genetic exchange and without having clearly definable genetic boundaries. Additionally, this study constitutes a warning against the misuse of equilibrium estimates of migration among recently-diverged groups.
Pinho, C. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. & Ferrand, N. (2009) -
When recently diverged taxa come into contact, the extent of introgression between them is related to the degree of differentiation that they have achieved. Studying contact zones is therefore essential to understand if differentiated taxa are reproductively isolated and, ultimately, if they are likely to remain distinct. Recent work on Iberian and North African wall lizards (Podarcis) has documented the existence of multiple evolutionary units, diagnosable both by genetic markers and morphology, but suggests that gene flow between distinct forms has occurred. Therefore, we were interested in evaluating how species boundaries are maintained in the areas where they meet. In this work, we study the contact zone between Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis carbonelli. We sampled a transect including the only locality where these two lizards are known to occur in syntopy and analysed a battery of 15 unlinked nuclear genetic markers and mitochondrial DNA. We also conducted a preliminary analysis of morphology and fertility. Using model-based clustering approaches, we show that the two species hybridize in the population where they have direct contact, but evidences of introgression are low for nearby populations. Although a significant number of individuals show evidence of admixture, this hybrid zone is clearly bimodal, suggesting strong barriers to gene flow, of which the putative nature are discussed. Interestingly, morphological analyses do not support the existence of intermediate forms among individuals that are admixed genetically. Taken together, these results constitute further evidence validating P. bocagei and P. carbonelli as distinct species.
Pinho, C. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Harruis, D.J. & Ferrand, N. (2001) -
When recently diverged taxa come into contact, the extent of introgression between them is directly related to the stage of differentiation that they have achieved. The study of contact zones is therefore essential to understand if differentiated taxa are reproductively isolated and, ultimately, to assess if they are likely to remain distinct. Recent work on differentiation within Iberian and North African wall lizards (Podarcis) has shown that multiple evolutionary units exist, diagnosable both by genetic markers and morphology, some of which have been recognised as full species. These studies also suggest that gene flow between distinct forms may occur. Therefore, we were interested in evaluating how species boundaries are maintained in the areas where they meet. In this work, we present data relative to the contact zone between P. bocagei and P. carbonelli. We studied a transect including the only known locality where these two lizards are known to occur in syntopy and analysed a battery of 15 unlinked nuclear genetic markers (11 allozymes, three microsatellites and one nuclear intron), mitochondrial DNA and morphology. We also conducted a preliminary analysis of fertility. Using model-based clustering approaches we show that the two species hybridize in the population where they contact, but evidences of introgression are low for nearby populations. Although a significant number of individuals show evidence of admixture, this hybrid zone is clearly bimodal, suggesting strong barriers to gene flow, which putative nature are discussed. Interestingly, morphological analyses revealed a complete lack of intermediate forms, even among individuals that are admixed genetically. Taken together, these results constitute further evidence validating the species status of P. bocagei and P. carbonelli.
Pinho, C. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Ferreira, C.A. & Gama, J. (2022) -
Automated image classification is a thriving field of machine learning, and various successful applications dealing with biological images have recently emerged. In this work, we address the ability of these methods to identify species that are difficult to tell apart by humans due to their morphological similarity. We focus on distinguishing species of wall lizards, namely those belonging to the Podarcis hispanicus species complex, which constitutes a well-known example of cryptic morphological variation. We address two classification experiments: (1) assignment of images of the morphologically relatively distinct P. bocagei and P. lusitanicus; and (2) distinction between the overall more cryptic nine taxa that compose this complex. We used four datasets (two image perspectives and individuals of the two sexes) and three deep-learning models to address each problem. Our results suggest a high ability of the models to identify the correct species, especially when combining predictions from different perspectives and models (accuracy of 95.9% and 97.1% for females and males, respectively, in the two-class case; and of 91.2% to 93.5% for females and males, respectively, in the nine-class case). Overall, these results establish deep-learning models as an important tool for field identification and monitoring of cryptic species complexes, alleviating the burden of expert or genetic identification.
Pinho, C. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Harris, D.J. & Ferrand, N. (2011) -
Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis carbonelli are two species of wall lizards endemic to the western Iberian Peninsula. A detailed phylogeographical study based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation has shown that they responded differently to the Quaternary climatic oscillations. These differences have been attributed to their distribution patterns: P. bocagei is distributed in the north of the Peninsula and in a continuous fashion, whereas P. carbonelli has a more southern and fragmented distribution. In this study, we assessed whether nuclear markers reveal similar evolutionary patterns to those inferred from mtDNA variation. We studied a battery of allozyme and microsatellite loci in a geographically representative set of individuals from both species. For each species we evaluated overall levels of differentiation, patterns of geographical variation in genetic diversity, genetic relationships amongst localities, and applied model-based individual multilocus genotype clustering approaches to detect hidden population structure. Our results for P. bocagei are highly concordant with the phylogeographical scenario inferred from mtDNA variation: we found very low levels of population differentiation, consistent with survival in a single glacial refugium, and detected signatures of a rapid demographic and geographical expansion. The analyses of nuclear markers furthermore helped to identify a probable refugial area, as well as expansion routes. Additionally, in concordance with observations based on mtDNA variation, a low level of population differentiation was observed in P. carbonelli, but this was significantly higher than in P. bocagei. However, the geographical basis for differentiation in P. carbonelli is highly inconsistent between mtDNA and nuclear markers, suggesting a complex, albeit recent, history of fragmentation. A recent reduction of this species’ distribution has probably erased the signatures of glacial isolation and post-glacial expansion that are normally found in other Iberian species, suggesting that the currently observed pattern of genetic differentiation in this species was shaped more by recent genetic drift than by the Pleistocene climatic oscillations.
Pinho, C. & Pereira, C. & Luis, C. & Couto, A. & Costa, D. & Pinto, C. & Lopes, S. & Salvi, D. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. & Rocha, S. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2013) -
Wall lizards (Podarcis spp.) from the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa have long been acknowledged as a case of doubtful taxonomy. The application of genetics to study evolutionary dynamics in this group of organisms showed that it is formed by several divergent lineages, a finding which set the basis for the on-going taxonomic re-evaluation of the group. In this talk I will review over a decade of studies on the evolutionary genetics of these organisms, with particular emphasis on species delimitation and speciation dynamics. I will also address recent findings regarding the nature of gene flow between species of this group and the multilocus phylogeny of the clade. Overall the results show that the taxa that compose this clade are closely-related yet welldefined species and that gene flow has repeatedly played a major role in shaping the evolutionary patterns of this clade, although with different impacts of different species pairs. I will finish by describing current and future research avenues, which will hopefully set Podarcis as one of the most important reptilian models for the study of speciation.
Pinho, C. & Rocha, S. & Carvalho, B.M. & Lopes, S. & Mourao, S. & Vallinoto, M. & Brunes, T.O. & Haddad, C.F.B. & Goncalves, H. & Sequeira, F. & Ferrand, N. (2010) -
We report new primers for the amplification and sequencing of 11 nuclear markers in squamate reptiles and anuran amphibians (five in squamates, six in anurans). Ten out of the 11 loci are introns (three of which are linked) that were amplified using an exon-primed, intron-crossing (EPIC) PCR strategy, whereas an eleventh locus spans part of a protein-coding gene. Squamate and anuran primers were initially developed for Lacerta schreiberi (Squamata: Lacertidae) and Pelodytes spp. (Anura: Pelodytidae), respectively. Cross-species amplification of the squamate markers was evaluated in four genera representing two additional families, whereas for anurans three genera corresponding to three additional families were tested. Three out of the five loci were successfully sequenced in all squamate taxa tested. Cross-amplification of the six anuran markers had lower, but still significant, success. We predict these markers will be of great utility for both population genetics and phylogenetic studies.
Pinho, C. & Sequeira, F. & Godinho, R. & Harris, D.H. & Ferrand, N. (2004) -
Nine dinucleotide microsatellite loci were developed through an enrichment protocol for Bocage’s wall lizard, Podarcis bocagei Seoane 1884, a lacertid endemic to the Iberian Peninsula. Nineteen primer pairs were designed and tested. From these, nine loci yielded satisfactory results and were screened on 15–19 individuals. These loci revealed a high level of polymorphism (8–15 alleles) and heterozygosity (0.611–0.947) and will certainly be useful in the study of population structure and evolutionary history of this species.
Pinho, C.J. & Darwish, M. & Smid, J. & Carranza, S. & Vasconcelos, R. (2023) -
DNA metabarcoding is widely used for diet characterization and is becoming increasingly important for biodiversity conservation, allowing the understanding of trophic networks and community assemblies. However, to our knowledge, few studies have used this approach to investigate trophic interactions for whole communities and none for reptiles. In particular, few studies have examined the diet composition of Saudi Arabian reptiles, and all have used classical methods only. Therefore, in this work, a non-invasive approach using DNA metabarcoding of faecal pellets was implemented to investigate the diet composition of the reptile community of Wadi Ashar, in AlUla County, north-western Saudi Arabia Kingdom. In the overall diet composition of the community, arthropods were present in 90% of the samples, and plants were present in 63%, revealing the unforeseen importance of plants to this community as a secondary, but also a primary dietary item. For some species, this is the first time that plants have been reported in their diet. A significant effect of reptile body size on diet composition was also demonstrated, indicating its strong influence on prey selection and resource partitioning in the community. This study highlights the importance of community assessments and the power of combining these with non-invasive DNA metabarcoding to accurately assess biodiversity and feeding habits, revealing unknown ecological interactions of often neglected groups. This revolutionary tool for conservation and management provided rapid and holistic information at relatively low costs, allowing to inform local authorities about which elements are central to the sustainable management of the Wadi Ashar community.
Pinho, R. & Izquierdo, E. & Rodriguez, J.L. & Foronda, P. (2021) -
Pintaric, I. (2019) -
For the study purposes, in 1971., five pairs of Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus, were transfered from their native island Pod Kopište onto Pod Mrčara island. After 36 years scientists discovered that translocated lizard species wiped out the indigenous lizard species (Podarcis melisellensis) and rapid adaptive evolution occured. They found differences in morphology, anatomy, physiology and bihavioural changes between individuals on this two islands. Our aim was to determine differences in aggression between populations and between gender within and between this two island populations. The research was carried out on 42 individuals of P. siculus from Pod Mrčara and 50 individuals from Pod Kopište. Prior to the experimental procedure, individuals passed the three-day habituation period followed by open field testing in which we investigated three main behavioral categories related to interacting with another lizars (tolerance, aggression and retreat) and time spent in the central arena zone as an indicator of dominance. The research have shown that both males and females from Pod Kopište are more aggressive then both males and females from Pod Mrčara, and that in general the population from Pod Kopište is more aggressive and dominant. Furthermore, the results have shown that aggression and retreat are related, so the more aggressive population from Pod Kopište is retreating more.
Pinto, F. & Bombi, P. & Bologna, M.A. (2006) -
Effets des feux et de la restauration forestière sur deux espèces sympatriques de Lacertidés (Reptiles) dans un écosystème méditerranéen de l`Italie centrale. - Les effets d`un incendie et de la restauration forestière qui a suivi ont été étudiés sur deux espèces de lézards du genre Podarcis dans une pinède côtière de l`Italie centrale. Trois stations très proches ont été échantillonnées: deux brûlées, dont une ayant ensuite fait l`objet de travaux de restauration, et une autre qui n`a pas été atteinte par le feu. Cinq sessions d`échantillonnage sur la démographie des lézards et leur choix du microhabitat ont été effectuées entre mars 2003 et mars 2004. P. sicula, espèce pionnière, a été récolté tant dans les stations brûlées que dans celles qui ne l`ont pas été, tandis que P. muralis n`a été trouvé que dans la forêt intacte. L`abondance de P. sicula est plus grande dans les zones brûlées. Dans des conditions naturelles, ces espèces sont différenciées par leur niche spatiale, puisqu`elles utilisent différents niveaux de la végétation, plus élevés pour P. muralis. L`absence de cette dernière espèce après l`incendie a facilité l`élargissement da le niche spatiale de P. sicula.
Pinto, T. & Moreira, B. & Freitas, H. & Santos, X. (2018) -
Fire is a critical component of terrestrial ecosystems and essential to understand the composition and diversity of communities in fire-prone regions. Nevertheless, fire does not act alone, and other factors such as land-use type and vegetation structure can also operate at different scales, prompting the response to fire of ectotherm communities such as reptiles. We have evaluated the influence of environmental factors on the abundance, diversity, and richness of reptile communities in Serra da Estrela Natural Park (northern Portugal), at both the landscape and micro-habitat scales. In spring 2014 and 2015, 20 transects were surveyed eight times, the vegetation structure and composition were measured, and the extent of land-use types around each transect calculated in this Mediterranean community. At the landscape scale, reptile abundance was higher in natural woodlands and more complex habitats (higher vegetation heterogeneity and plant richness), and reptile evenness was affected by vegetation heterogeneity and time since fire. By contrast, species richness was not related to any environmental factor measured in this study. Only two lizard species were common in the park, Psammodromus algirus and Podarcis guadarramae. Their relative abundances increased with contrasting habitat variables as the former is a ground-dwelling lizard specialist that prefers heterogeneous (unburnt) habitats and the second is a rock lizard that selects open (burnt) stands. At the micro-habitat scale, the probability of reptile presence, reptile abundance, and reptile richness increased with plant richness and decreased with tree cover. This study highlights the importance of several environmental factors, that operate from micro-habitat to landscape scales to understand the response of reptiles to fire.
Pinya Fernández, S. et al. (2023) -
In order to establish the basic management guidelines for the most threatened amphibian and reptile species in the Balearic Islands, the Plan for the recovery and conservation of amphibians and reptiles in the Balearic Islands, known as Plan Boscà, has been developed and is pending its final approval. It is a group plan that includes two species of amphibians and three reptiles including: i) the populations of the Balearic toad Bufotes balearicus in Ibiza and the populations of the Ferreret Alytes muletensis in Mallorca, ii) the populations of the Moorish tortoise Testudo graeca on the island of Majorca, iii) the populations of the Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi from Majorca and Menorca and iv) the populations of the Pitiusan lizard Podarcis pityusensis from Ibiza and Formentera. In the plan they develop a set of management actions, which are divided between generic actions for the entire group of species contained in the plan and those specific to each species. The generic actions common to all species include: i) promoting research and training to improve knowledge, ii) dissemination and citizen participation, and iii) administrative coordination. The actions for the Balearic toad include i) knowledge of the current status of the species, ii) habitat management, with the review and updating of potential localities and the creation of new ones to favor connectivity and iii) monitoring of the species . The actions for the black tortoise include i) improving knowledge of the current distribution, ii) monitoring populations and creating and strengthening them, iii) improving connectivity between populations and iv) captive breeding. . The actions for the Balearic and Pitiusan lizard include i) updating knowledge and in-depth evaluation of its conservation status, ii) monitoring populations, iii) managing introduced species such as invasive snakes, iv) quality control of the habitat and v) the revision of the protection category in the Balearic Catalog of Threatened Species, as well as the revision in the official forms of the spaces integrated in the Natura 2000 Network.
Pinya, S. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Here, we update the current list of amphibian and reptile fauna present in the Balearic Islands, probably the most outstanding case in the Mediterranean and of the most in the world where massive species introduction is in conflict with the survivorship of highly restricted endemic taxa. Resulting of a long term evolution in insularity, endemic herpetofauna was already decimated during the Pleistocene but, after the human colonisation of the archipelago, the introduction of alien species, passive or deliberate, has been provoking new extinctions and range retractions in the native herpetofauna. Such process is not interrupted but has even intensified during the last years. The current species list is composed by five amphibians (one native) and 21 reptiles (2 native). A critical review of the evidence on extinctions and introductions is provided together with the conservation implications. Compared to the last review (Mayol, 1985) six new reptile species are now naturalised or are in process of naturalization, colubrid snakes constituting the most conflicting element due to their predator role.
Pinya, S. & Viada, C. (2020) -
Piorno, V. & Fernández, J.A. & Velo-Antòn, G. (2016) -
El lagarto ocelado (Timon lepidus) mantiene poblaciones de gran interés en varias islas, tanto por su estatus de conservación como por las particulares interacciones ecológicas que en ellas se desarrollan. En el caso del Parque Nacional de las Islas Atlánticas de Galicia, esta especie convive con una importante colonia de cría de gaviota patiamarilla (Larus michahellis). Desde el ano 2009 hasta 2015 hemos detectado en este Parque Nacional siete casos de consumo de T. lepidus por L. michahellis. Se trata de una conducta nunca antes documentada y de reciente aparición, que podría estar relacionada con los efectos que el cierre de vertederos y la reducción de los descartes pesqueros están teniendo en esta especie de gaviota. El carácter ocasional de esta depredación no hace esperar efectos apreciables en estas poblaciones insulares de lagarto ocelado.
Piquet, J.C. & López-Darias, M. (2021) -
Invasive snakes represent a serious threat to island biodiversity, being responsible for far-reaching impacts that are noticeably understudied, particularly regarding native reptiles. We analysed the impact of the invasive California kingsnake, Lampropeltis californiae—recently introduced in the Canary Islands—on the abundance of all endemic herpetofauna of the island of Gran Canaria. We quantified the density in invaded and uninvaded sites for the Gran Canaria giant lizard, Gallotia stehlini, the Gran Canaria skink, Chalcides sexlineatus, and Boettger’s wall gecko, Tarentola boettgeri. We used spatially explicit capture-recapture and distance-sampling methods for G. stehlini and active searches under rocks for the abundance of the other two reptiles. The abundance of all species was lower in invaded sites, with a reduction in the number of individuals greater than 90% for G. stehlini, greater than 80% for C. sexlineatus and greater than 50% for T. boettgeri in invaded sites. Our results illustrate the severe impact of L. californiae on the endemic herpetofauna of Gran Canaria and highlight the need for strengthened measures to manage this invasion. We also provide further evidence of the negative consequences of invasive snakes on island reptiles and emphasize the need for further research on this matter on islands worldwide.
Piquet, J.C. et al. (2023) -
Invasive snakes are a serious challenge for the conservation of global biodiversity. Besides causing irreversible damages to recipient ecosystems, their management faces substantial difficulties due to their cryptic behavior and reduced capture probability. Management programs often rely on traps, artificial cover objects (ACOs) and active surveys. However, the efficiency of snake capture methods has been scarcely assessed, limiting our capacity to identify and implement adequate methods to deal with invasive snakes. In this context, we performed a study to evaluate the efficiency of traps, ACOs and active surveys in the California kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae) in Gran Canaria. We designated three sampling zones, distributed over 17 ha, and deployed 18 traps and 15 ACOs (separated 20 m from each other) in each of them. From May 11th to July 11th 2022, a team of 23 people checked all traps and ACOs, while performing line transects or visual encounter surveys—respectively sampling the entire area following parallel transects or sampling separate sector within the area by following random routes—and compared the efficiency of these methods by calculating the number of captures per unit of effort (CPUE). Both visual encounter surveys and line transects had similar CPUE (4.10 ± 10.38 y 3.55 ± 10.13 capture/100 observers- hours, respectively), which was notoriously higher than that for traps (0.02 ± 0.05 captures/100 traphours) and ACOs (which produced no captures). Our results indicate that active surveys are much more efficient for L. californiae than traps, even though this is a fossorial species that remains concealed underground most of the time and shows sporadic activity on the surface. This underlines the need to properly evaluate the efficiency of the control methods available to capture snakes in order to design effective management strategies to deal with this damaging invaders.
Piras, P. & Salvi, D. & Ferrara, G. & Maiorino, L. & Delfino, M. & Pedde, L. & Kotsakis, T. (2011) -
Understanding the role of the developmental pathways in shaping phenotypic diversity allows appreciating in full the processes influencing and constraining morphological change. Podarcis lizards demonstrate extraordinary morphological variability that likely originated in short evolutionary time. Using geometric morphometrics and a broad suite of statistical tests, we explored the role of developmental mechanisms such as growth rate change, ontogenetic divergence/convergence/parallelism as well as morphological expression of heterochronic processes in mediating the formation of their phenotypic diversity during the post-natal ontogeny. We identified hypermorphosis – the prolongation of growth along the same trajectory – as the process responsible for both intersexual and interspecific morphological differentiation. Albeit the common allometric pattern observed in both sexes of any species constrains and canalizes their cephalic scales variation in a fixed portion of the phenotypic space, the extended growth experienced by males and some species allows them to achieve peramorphic morphologies. Conversely, the intrasexual phenotypic diversity is accounted for by non-allometric processes that drive the extensive morphological dispersion throughout their ontogenetic trajectories. This study suggests a model of how simple heterochronic perturbations can produce phenotypic variation, and thus potential for further evolutionary change, even within a strictly constrained developmental pathway.
Pisani, D. & Bulla, S. (2000) -
Pistotnik, M. (2001) -
Pizzigalli, C. (2019) -
Mesalina is a genus of small xeric lizards currently comprising 19 species distributed from West Africa throughout the Saharo-Sindian deserts to the Indo-Iranian plateau. Previous phylogenetic studies highlighted the presence of cryptic diversity within the genus and described new Mesalina species from its eastern lineages. In this study, we investigated the taxonomy and systematics within the Mesalina olivieri species complex, focusing on the Atlantic Sahara (from Morocco to Mauritania). The species complex is currently represented by three recognised species, all of them present in this region: M. olivieri, M. pasteuri and M. simoni. Using an integrative taxonomy approach based on morphological (pholidotic, coloration and pattern) and molecular (one mtDNA and four nuDNA markers) datasets, we provide robust evidences for the existence of additional taxa within the M. olivieri complex is provided, including an undescribed species in Mauritania. Mesalina sp. nov. . All M. olivieri that cluster together with M. simoni were proposed to be included as subspecies of the latter (M. simoni ssp. nov.). The clade including Mesalina sp. nov. and M. simoni diverged from M. olivieri and M. pasteuri around 9.5 Mya whereas these two latter species separated 1 or 2 Mya later in the end of the Miocene. The combined analyses supported a new classification of the Mesalina olivieri species complex into four extant species. The new species is sympatric with M. pasteuri in Mauritania but it is phylogenetically and morphologically divergent from it. Species distribution modelling suggests that the new taxon occurs exclusively in the rocky areas of the Adrar Atar plateau and neighbouring regions. The relatively wide but fragmented distribution of Mesalina sp. nov. suggests that its conservation status is Least Concern (LC).
Pizzigalli, C. & Crochet, P.-A. & Geniez, P. & Martínez-Freiría, F. & Velo-Antón, G. & Brito, J.C. (2021) -
Numerous molecular studies emphasized how past climatic oscillations in the Sahara-Sahel have left strong imprints on current biodiversity patterns and identified the Atlantic coast and the Northwest African Mountains as refugia and speciation hotspots. Yet, the biodiversity inventory in the region is still far from complete. We use an integrative taxonomy framework to revise the systematics of the Mesalina olivieri species complex; integrating molecular, morphological, and environmental data, we evaluated levels of genetic and phenotypic differentiation among species/lineages and revised the species distribution limits of the M. olivieri complex, refining the distribution of Mesalina simoni, and Mesalina pasteuri. Our study confirmed one previously unidentified speciation event, leading to the description of Mesalina adrarensis sp. nov. Together with this new species, we also describe the south-western Moroccan populations of M. olivieri as Mesalina simoni saharae ssp. nov. Mesalina adrarensis sp. nov. is sympatric with M. pasteuri and parapatric with M. simoni saharae ssp. nov. in Mauritania and southern Morocco. Based on our revised taxonomy, M. simoni now includes most populations of the M. olivieri complex in Morocco, M. olivieri being restricted in Morocco to the east and southeast of the country. We also build on these results to provide further insight on the biogeography of North Africa. Our results point to a diversification of the complex during the late Miocene, that led to the formation of the four species M. simoni, M. olivieri, M. pasteuri, and M. adrarensis sp. nov. After these four speciation events, high intraspecific diversification processes occurred since the beginning of the Plio-Pleistocene transition, in parallel with the beginning of the humid and arid cycles. Through our phylogenetic analysis, we highlight the existence of high levels of undescribed intraspecific diversity in M. olivieri and M. pasteuri that will need to be addressed in future studies. Moreover, we uncover instances of cytonuclear discordances, stressing the need of considering both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA for integrative taxonomic studies to explore biodiversity.
Pizzuti Piccoli, A. (2016) -
Pizzuti Piccoli, A. & Lorenzis, A. de & Fortuna, F. (2017) -
Plag, N. & Braun, U. (2004) -
Planinc, G. (2000) -
Planinc, G. (2002) -
Plasinger, I. & Cerbo, A.R. di & Barbacetto, S. (2016) -
Plass, J. (2007) -
Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Fahd, S. & Carranza, S. (2008) -
Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Galán, P. & Fernández-Cardenete, J.R. (2004) -
Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Honrubia, S. & Mateo, J.A. (1999) -
Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Moreno, M. (1990) -
Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Sá-Sousa, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Marquez, R. & Cheylan, M. & Corti, C. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2009) -
Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Sá-Sousa, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Marquez, R. & Cheylan, M. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2012) -
Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Tapia, M. & Jerez, D. (2008) -
Plessis I.J. du & Mouton, P. le F.N. (2012) -
Four lacertid lizards, Pedioplanis laticeps, P. lineo-ocellata, Meroles knoxii and Nucras tessellata, occur sympatrically on the arid plains of the Tankwa Karoo Basin in South Africa. The aim of this study was to evaluate the significance of foraging strategy in resource partitioning among the four species, allowing them to co-occur in a structurally simple system with a limited number of potential niches. Previous workers already identified P. lineo-ocellata and M. knoxii as sit-and-wait foragers and N. tessellata as an active forager. We recorded data on three foraging variables: movements per minute, proportion of time spent moving, and proportion of attacks on prey whilst moving, for juveniles and adults of P. laticeps. By comparing the foraging data obtained for P. laticeps to those for other lacertid species, we were able to demonstrate that adult P. laticeps are ambush foragers. We also noted a significant ontogenetic shift in foraging behaviour in P. laticeps, and, due to a significantly higher frequency of short brief movements, we classified juveniles as mixed foragers. The sharing of an ambush foraging strategy by at least three of the four lacertid species co-occurring on the Tankwa plains, suggests considerable overlap along the trophic dimension of ecological space. This overlap presumably promotes occupation of separate microhabitats by the three ambush foragers in the Tankwa Karoo Basin.
Plessis, G. du & Combe, J. (1868) -
Plessis, I.J. du & Mouton, P. le F.N. (2011) -
Four lacertid lizards, Pedioplanis laticeps, P. lineo-ocellata, Meroles knoxii and Nucras tessellata, occur sympatrically on the arid plains of the Tankwa Karoo Basin in South Africa. The aim of this study was to determine whether the four species are spatially separated in terms of the microhabitat each species occupies, allowing them to occur in sympatry in this structurally simple system with a limited number of potential niches. The habitat preferences of the four species were investigated on the farm Gansfontein in the southwestern parts of the Tankwa Karoo Basin. The area was surveyed by walking transects through different habitat types and recording all active lizards. For each lizard observed, the species was identified and a photograph was taken of its microhabitat. At the end of the sampling period the microhabitats in which lizards were found were sorted into distinct types on the basis of substrate composition. During the survey, only one individual of N. tessellata was recorded, but sample sizes for the other three species were sufficiently large to provide a clear perspective of habitat segregation among the three species. The results showed that the three species are spatially separated at the study site, with P. lineo-ocellata being restricted to rocky areas, P. laticeps preferring gravel substrates and M. knoxii frequenting sandy areas. Although only anecdotal information is available, all indications are that the observed spatial separation of the three species is mainly the result of historical adaptation to the different substrate types.
Pleticha, P. (1968) -
Pletzer, A. (2014) -
Die in Österreich nur in Tirol vorkommende Unterart der Mauereidechse Podarcis muralis maculiventris wurde in diesem Gebiet bisher kaum untersucht. Von März bis Oktober 2011 habe ich daher an einer freilebenden Population im Gelände des Alpenzoo Innsbruck (auf einer Fläche von 4 ha) eine exemplarische Untersuchung über den lokalen Mauereidechsenbestand, über Muster der Dichte und Raumnutzung, sowie über das Verhalten und die Morphologie durchgeführt. Die Daten habe ich unter Einsatz verschiedener Methoden gesammelt: Bestände, Raumdichten und die Raumverteilung habe ich während der gesamten Untersuchungsperiode über 89 standardisierte Rundgänge zu verschiedenen Tageszeiten erfasst. Mit Hilfe genormter Protokolle habe ich an Antreffpunkten einzelner Tiere verschiedene Habitatparameter erfasst, um Habitatpräferenzen zu ermitteln. Das Verhalten und tageszeitliche Muster der Aktivität und Substratnutzung wurde nach der Methode des focal animal samplings aufgenommen. Zusätzlich habe ich 69 Tiere gefangen, vermessen und markiert. Maximal wurden 98 Tiere während eines Rundganges gezählt, jedoch ergibt sich aus der Summe von kleinflächigen Maximalzählungen ein Schätzwert des Bestandes von 177 Eidechsen. Die Anzahl der gesichteten adulten Tiere nahm im Laufe des Jahres konstant ab. Der Jungtieranteil betrug 2011 insgesamt ein Drittel des Gesamtbestandes, wobei dieser vom ersten Auftreten bis in den Herbst hin größer wurde. Insgesamt konnte ich eine Dichte von ca. 5 Ind./100m² für das untersuchte Areal ermitteln. Die Nutzung des Zooareals war nicht gleichmäßig. So wurden im Hochsommer in 96% der Kleinflächen adulte Mauereidechsen angetroffen, während es im Oktober nur mehr 42% waren. Bereiche in denen besonders oft und viele Tiere angetroffen wurden zeichneten sich durch viel Fels, genügend Versteckmöglichkeiten, einen hohen Anteil an niederer Vegetation und ein stark strukturiertes Relief aus. Fels und Stein waren mit Abstand die beliebtesten Strukturen auf denen sich Mauereidechsen aufhielten. Die Antreffhäufigkeit von Mauereidechsen war stark von der Substrattemperatur abhängig. Bis zu einer Temperatur von 40 °C bestand eine positive Korrelation zwischen Temperatur und Anzahl angetroffener Individuen. Einen starken positiven Einfluss hatte die Substrattemperatur auf die Bewegungsaktivität der Tiere. Bei schwacher bis fehlender Bewölkung wurden bei niedrigen Temperaturen mehr Eidechsen gesehen, während sie bei starker Bewölkung und bedecktem Himmel höhere Temperaturen bevorzugten. Die Mauereidechsen im Alpenzoo Innsbruck hatten eine grau/braune bis grünliche Grundfärbung. Auf der Unterseite waren Farbtöne von weiß bis zu einem dunklen Orangeton dabei und oftmals wiesen Individuen ein blaues Seitenband auf. Im Durchschnitt konnte bei den untersuchten Individuen eine Gesamtlänge von 16 cm (Kopf-Rumpflänge: Ø 6,6 cm, Schwanzlänge: Ø 9,5 cm) und ein Gewicht von 5,9 g festgestellt werden. Eindeutige Geschlechtsunterschiede waren bei dieser Population nicht zu erkennen.
Pletzer, A. & Böhm, C. & Landmann, A. (2021) -
Plötner, J. (1983) -
Plötner, J. (2024) -
Allochthone (gebietsfremde) Formen werden häufig als potenzielle Bedrohung für endemische Lebensgemeinschaften angesehen. Im Gegensalz zu ökologischen und epidemiologischen Effekten, die mit der Etablierung und Ausbreitung allochthoner Formen einhergehen können, sind die Auswirkungen introgressiver Hybridisierung oft nicht direkt sichtbar und nur durch zeit- und kostenintensive Labor- und Freilanduntersuchungen nachweisbar. Darüber hinaus herrscht unter Artenschützern Uneinigkeit in der Frage, ob die genetische Authentizität autochthoner Formen zu erhalten ist oder ob versucht werden sollte, den Genpool isolierter, genetisch verarmter Populationen durch Einkreuzung allochthoner Individuen zu stabilisieren. Inzwischen mehren sich die Stimmen, die die positiven Effekte introgressiver Hybridisierung insbesondere für die Fitness und Dynamik isolierter, genetisch verarmter Populationen hervorheben. Bevor eine ,,genetische Rettung` mittels allochthoner Formen in Erwägung gezogen wird, sind umfangreiche Untersuchungen erforderlich, die auch die Durchführung von Genomanalysen und Kreuzungsexperimenten einschließen sollten. Nach heutigem Kenntnisstand kann die gezielte Einbringung von allochthonen Genomen zwar zu einer vorübergehenden Stabilisierung genetisch verarmter Populationen führen, der effektivste Weg zur Erhaltung der genetischen Vielfalt ist und bleibt jedoch die Vernetzung strukturreicher, naturnaher und großflächiger Lebensräume, in denen ein kontinuierlicher Individuenaustausch zwischen den einzelnen Populationen und damit ein ungehinderter Genfluss stattfinden kann.
Plötner, M. & Stöcklein, A. & Tews, K. & Plötner, J. (2025) -
Umsetzungen und Umsiedlungen von Populationen, die im Rahmen von Bauvorhaben oder anderen Eingriffen in natürliche Lebensräume erfolgen, gelten im Artenschutz als ultima ratio. Da die jährlich in Deutschland durchgeführten Umsetzungen und Umsiedlungen von Amphibien und Reptilien nicht zentral erfasst werden, können keine Aussagen über die Erfolgsquote solcher Projekte getroffen werden. In vielen Fällen dürften diese daran scheitern, dass die Ersatzlebensräume nicht den Umweltansprüchen der betroffenen Arten genügen. Wir stellen hier die Ergebnisse einer Umsetzung von Zauneidechsen und Schlingnattern in Dresden vor und diskutieren Faktoren und Aspekte, die bei der Planung, Gestaltung und Entwicklung von Ersatzlebensräumen berücksichtigt werden sollten.
Plowman, M.L. (2007) -
Plumptre, A.J., Ayebare, S., Behangana, M. et al. (2019) -
Uganda is one of the most species rich countries in Africa because of the presenceof several major biomes. However, it is also a country that has lost much of its nat-ural habitat to agriculture. Uganda is a country that has been better surveyed for itsbiodiversity than many African countries, but despite this, there has not been acomprehensive analysis of the critical sites that contribute to biodiversity conserva-tion at a global, as well as at a national level. We here present such an assessmentusing mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and plants as surrogate taxa. We iden-tified 36 terrestrial sites that are of sufficient global importance to qualify as KeyBiodiversity Areas (KBAs), using the Global Standard for the Identification ofKBAs, which complement an additional nine freshwater sites. National red listingof species and ecosystems was used to identify sites of national importance for con-servation. We employ a conservation planning approach using Marxan to identifythe minimum set of sites needed to conserve all the globally and nationally threat-ened species and nationally threatened habitats in Uganda. The findings show thatmost of the remaining natural habitat in Uganda is important for the conservationof globally and nationally threatened species and threatened habitat. Large areas ofirreplaceable habitat occur outside protected areas, although more extensive surveys of these areas would likely reduce the area that is irreplaceable.
Plutzar, C. (1996) -
Poblete, A.G.H. (2002) -
Podloucky, R. (1988) -
Podloucky, R. (2006) -
Podloucky, R. (2011) -
Podloucky, R. & Fischer, C. (2013) -
Podloucky, R. & Pielok, N. & Finch, O.-D. (2011) -
Podnar Lesic, M. (2005) -
Podnar, M. (2001) -
Podnar, M. & Grbac, I. & Tvrtkovic, N. & Bruvo Madaric, B. & Mayer, W. (2015) -
Podnar, M. & Haring, E. & Pinsker, W. & Mayer, W. (2007) -
Two distinct cytochrome b-like sequences were discovered in the genome of Podarcis sicula. One of them represents a nuclear copy of a mitochondrial sequence (numt-sic) differing by 14.3% from the authentic mitochondrial (mt) sequence obtained from the same individual. This numt, however, differs by only 2.7% from the mt sequence found in one population of Podarcis muralis, a related species in which no corresponding numt was detected. The numt-sic sequence extends over at least 7637 bp and is homologous to a section of the mt genome spanning from the tRNA-Lys to the tRNA-Pro gene. Premature mt stop codons were detected in two of the nine protein coding genes of numt-sic. The distribution of substitutions among the three codon positions and the transition/transversion ratio of the numt-sic sequence resemble, with few exceptions, those of functional mt genes, indicating a rather recent transfer to the nucleus. Phylogenetic analyses performed on the data set including P. sicula numt-cytb sequences as well as mt-cytb sequences from the same individuals and mt sequences of various P. muralis populations suggest that numt-sic originated in P. muralis. In a geographic survey, P. sicula populations belonging to different mt lineages, covering most of the distribution area, were screened for the presence of numt-sic and for a 15-bp duplication polymorphism in the numt-nd5 sequence. Our results suggest that numt-sic has spread rapidly through the species range via sexual transmission, thereby being transferred to populations belonging to well-separated mt lineages that diverged 1–3 Mya.
Podnar, M. & Madaric, B.B. & Mayer, W. (2013) -
The Balkan Peninsula is a hot spot for European herpetofaunal biodiversity and endemism. The rock climbing lizards Dalmatolacerta oxycephala and Dinarolacerta mosorensis and the ground-dwelling Dalmatian wall lizard Podarcis melisellensis are endemic to the Western Balkans, and their ranges largely overlap. Here, we present a comparative phylogeographical study of these three species in the area of their codistribution in order to determine the level of concordance in their evolutionary patterns. Phylogenetic analyses were performed based on two mitochondrial genes (cytochrome b and 16S rRNA), and a molecular clock approach was used to date the most important events in their evolutionary histories. We also tested for correlations regarding genetic differentiation among populations and their geographical distances. For all three species, a significant correlation between genetic and geographical distances was found. Within D. oxycephala, two deeply separated clades (‘island’ and ‘mainland clade’), with further subdivision of the ‘mainland clade’ into two subclades (‘south-eastern’ and ‘north-western’), were found. High sequence divergences were observed between these groups. From our data, the time of separation of the two main clades of D. oxycephala can be estimated at about 5 mya and at about 0.8 mya for the two subclades of the mainland clade. Within D. mosorensis, coalescence time may be dated at about 1 mya, while D. mosorensis and D. montenegrina separated around 5 mya. The results imply the existence of complex palaeo-biogeographical and geological factors that probably influenced the observed phylogeographical patterns in these lacertid species, and point to the presence of numerous glacial/interglacial refugia. Furthermore, the observed cryptic genetic diversity within the presently monotypic species D. oxycephala prompts for a revision of its taxonomic and conservation status.
Podnar, M. & Mayer, W. (2005) -
920 bp of the 12SrRNA mitochondrial gene was sequenced from several samples of the Podarcis species from the central Mediterranean region. These sequences were compared with these published before. For two species, P. wagleriana and P. tiliguerta, intraspecific divergences were found as usual for well separated species.
Podnar, M. & Mayer, W. (2006) -
Algyroides nigropunctatus is a lacertid species from the western border of the Balkan peninsula. Morphologically the species is highly uniform throughout its distribution range, which extends from notheastern-most Italy to western Greece. In order to assess the mitochondrial DNA variability of the species parts of the mitochondrial 12S (about 470 bp) and 16S rRNA (about 500 bp) genes were sequenced from 8 samples collected at different localities distributed across the species range. Three distinct clades were found representing mitochondrial lineages separated probably during the middle Pleistocene. The phylogeographic structure of the species is characterised by a lack of variability in the northern and middle part of its area, and clear phylogenetic structuring of the populations from Greece.
Podnar, M. & Mayer, W. (2013) -
At the western side of Dinarides-Hellenides mountain chain 12 species of lacertid lizards occur. All hitherto investigated species appeared to be phylogeographically highly structured. Their present phylogeographic patterns are the result of the complex topography and the geotectonic history of the region, multiple events of range retractions and subsequent expansions during Pleistocene climatic oscillations but also distinct ecological preferences of the species, interspecific competition, overwater dispersals and unintentional anthropogenic introductions. The phylogeography of Podarcis siculus, P. melisellensis, P. tauricus, Algyroides nigropunctatus, Dalmatolacerta oxycephala and Dinarolacerta mosorensis will be discussed in details.
Podnar, M. & Mayer, W. & Tvrftkovic, N. (2004) -
A 903 bp section of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene was sequenced from 73 specimens of Podarcis melisellensis collected at 52 localities distributed over the major part of the species´ range. In addition, parts of the 12S (about 470 bp) and 16S rRNA (about 500 bp) genes were analysed for 11 representative samples leading to a congruent phylogeny. Our study includes representatives of all 20 subspecies recognized today. The phylogenetic analysis of the sequence data revealed three main clades: mainland with nearby islands, Vis archipelago, and Lastovo archipelago. The degree of mitochondrial DNA divergence among these clades suggests a separation of the respective population groups during the earliest Pleistocene. The phylogenetic pattern observed within the species is in sharp contrast to the actual taxonomic division into subspecies. A correlation between genetic diversity of P. melisellensis populations and paleogeography of the regions they inhabit is discussed.
Podnar, M. & Mayer, W. & Tvrtkovic, N. (2005) -
In a phylogeographical survey of the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis sicula , DNA sequence variation along an 887-bp segment of the cytochrome b gene was examined in 96 specimens from 86 localities covering the distribution range of the species. In addition, parts of the 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes from 12 selected specimens as representatives of more divergent cytochrome b haploclades were sequenced (together about 950 bp). Six phylogeographical main groups were found, three representing samples of the nominate subspecies Podarcis sicula sicula and closely related subspecies and the other three comprising Podarcis sicula campestris as well as all subspecies described from northern and eastern Adriatic islands. In southern Italy a population group with morphological characters of P. s. sicula but with the mitochondrial DNA features of P. s. campestris was detected indicating a probably recent hybridization zone. The present distribution patterns were interpreted as the consequence of natural events like retreats to glacial refuges and postglacial area expansions, but also as the results of multiple introductions by man.
Podnar, M. & Pinsker, W. & Mayer, W. (2009) -
Complete mitochondrial (mt) genomes were sequenced from representatives of three lacertid lizards: Podarcis siculus, Podarcis muralis and Phoenicolacerta kulzeri. In all three genomes the arrangement of the 22 tRNAs, the two rRNAs and the 13 protein-coding genes conforms to the common vertebrate arrangement. The phylogenetic position of Lacertidae within the order Squamata was determined through sequence analyses based on large sections of complete mt genomes. The number of nucleotide sites used for tree construction was 9234 when outgroup taxa were included, and 10 499 when only Squamata were compared. The phylogenetic analyses confirmed the sister group relationship between Lacertidae and Amphisbaenia as previously proposed on the basis of molecular data. Additionally, Bayesian analysis revealed a well supported clade comprising (Gekkonidae (Lacertidae + Amphisbaenia)), which is not in accordance with the traditional morphological view and most of the previous molecular studies. It confirms, however, the close relationship between Gekkonidae and Amphisbaenia as revealed in a recent study based on complete mt genomes from a smaller number of taxa. Intra- and intergeneric sequence comparisons of six commonly used marker genes showed rather high levels of divergence within the Lacertidae. In the intrageneric comparison the control region proved to be considerably more conserved than the protein coding genes.
Podnar, M. & Ugarkovic, D. & Plohl, M. & Tvrtkovic, N. (1998) -
Podolsky, A.V. (2021) -
The paper presents data on the ecology of two common species of reptiles in the Tambov Region: the sand lizard, Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758, and the common grass snake, Natrix natrix (Linnaeus, 1758). The material was collected in the Michurinsky, Pervomaysky, Tambovsky and Inzhavinsky (on the territory of the Voroninsky State Nature Reserve) Districts of the Tambov Region during the 2019 field season. Field observations and accounting for the numbers of animals on the routes were carried out in the most typical biotopes for the study sites: in pine forest, deciduous forest, in steppe areas affected to varying degrees by anthropogenic transformation, in floodplains of rivers and along the shores of lakes and artificial reservoirs. Information on the following aspects of the ecology of these reptile species in the region is presented and discussed: habitat distribution and numbers, seasonal and diurnal activity, phenology of reproduction and development and the influence of anthropogenic factors. All materials obtained as a result of our own research are compared with the data of the literature sources cited in the paper. On the basis of wide distribution in the region, relatively high numbers and trends to synanthropy it is stated that the state of the populations of the sand lizard and common grass snake in the region in the present conditions is safe and special measures for their protection are not required.
Poel, P. van der & Poel, L. van der (2010) -
Poel, P. van der & van der Poel-van `t Hoff, L. (2013) -
Effect Great Grey Shrike on lizardpopulation On the dry heathland where the authors have a plot for monitoring reptiles, they also study the Great Grey Shrike (Lanius excubitor). The shrike usually arrives in its winter territory from about 1st October, leaving at the beginning of April. It has a habit of storing any prey that it does not eat immediately, such as lizards, in larders. The Viviparous Lizard (Zootoca vivipara) is the only species of lizard present. All 72 lizards found in larders during the winter of 2011 – 2012 were adult males. Female lizards appear later after the shrike has left. From two time-budget studies, it appeared that the Great Grey Shrike may eat 18 lizards a day. It is estimated that during its whole stay, a shrike may catch at least 250 lizards. In order to obtain an impression of the influence of a shrike on the population of Viviparous Lizard, an extra count was carried out. About one half of the monitoring route ran through the main hunting area of the shrike. The co-ordinates of the lizards were recorded with GPS. In Figure 6, the route is shown as a blue line and the main hunting area by the broken red line. The locations of the lizards counted are represented by yellow thumbnails. The lizards found in larders in 2011 – 2012 are represented by thumbnails, green for the shrike that was present till 27th March and blue for one that arrived on 26th March. Only 4 out of 28 lizards counted were present within the core hunting area of the shrikes, showing that the Great Grey Shrike has a considerable effect on the number of lizards, in particular the males.
Poggiani, L. & Dionisi, V. (2020) -
Pogoda, P. (2021) -
Pogoda, P. & Hammerschmidt, N. & Kupfer, A. (2020) -
Pohlmann, K. (1992) -
Poitou-Charentes Nature (2002) -
Pokorná, M. & Kratochvil, L. & Kejnovský, E. (2011) -
Background: The accumulation of repetitive sequences such as microsatellites during the differentiation of sex chromosomes has not been studied in most squamate reptiles (lizards, amphisbaenians and snakes), a group which has a large diversity of sex determining systems. It is known that the Bkm repeats containing tandem arrays of GATA tetranucleotides are highly accumulated on the degenerated W chromosomes in advanced snakes. Similar, potentially homologous, repetitive sequences were found on sex chromosomes in other vertebrates. Using FISH with probes containing all possible mono-, di-, and tri-nucleotide sequences and GATA, we studied the genome distribution of microsatellite repeats on sex chromosomes in two lizard species (the gecko Coleonyx elegans and the lacertid Eremias velox) with independently evolved sex chromosomes. The gecko possesses heteromorphic euchromatic sex chromosomes, while sex chromosomes in the lacertid are homomorphic and the W chromosome is highly heterochromatic. Our aim was to test whether microsatellite distribution on sex chromosomes corresponds to the stage of their heteromorphism or heterochromatinization. Moreover, because the lizards lie phylogenetically between snakes and other vertebrates with the Bkm-related repeats on sex chromosomes, the knowledge of their repetitive sequence is informative for the determination of conserved versus convergently evolved repetitive sequences across vertebrate lineages. Results: Heteromorphic sex chromosomes of C. elegans do not show any sign of microsatellite accumulation. On the other hand, in E. velox, certain microsatellite sequences are extensively accumulated over the whole length or parts of the W chromosome, while others, including GATA, are absent on this heterochromatinized sex chromosome. Conclusion: The accumulation of microsatellite repeats corresponds to the stage of heterochromatinization of sex chromosomes rather than to their heteromorphism. The lack of GATA repeats on the sex chromosomes of both lizards suggests that the Bkm-related repeats on sex chromosomes in snakes and other vertebrates evolved convergently. The comparison of microsatellite sequences accumulated on sex chromosomes in E. velox and in other eukaryotic organisms suggests that historical contingency, not characteristics of particular sequences, plays a major role in the determination of which microsatellite sequence is accumulated on the sex chromosomes in a particular lineage.
Pola, L. & Koleska, D. (2017) -
Podarcis muralis (LAURENTI, 1768) or the Common wall lizard is a species of a lizard family Lacertidae. It is widely distributed lizard in most of Europe. It ranges from northern Spain, through France, southern Belgium, Luxembourg, west-central Germany, south-eastern Czech Republic, central Slovakia, central Hungary, most of the Balkans and northwestern Anatolia, Turkey. It occurs also on Jersey, Channel Islands (United Kingdom). It has been introduced to the United States. It is found from sea level up to 2500 m a. s. l. Herein, we report another record among Lacertidae and the first record of tail bifurcation in Podarcis muralis from Liguria region, Italy.
Polat, F. & Durgun, A.M. & Olacam, A. & İnci̇, G.S. & Doğan, M.B. (2019) -
Lizards, commonly found in the Umuttepe Campus of Kocaeli University, were caught and tissue samples were taken from their tail region for species identification through molecular analysis. After that, DNA isolation, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) by using universal primers for the mitochondrial COI and 16S rRNA, and DNA sequence analysis were performed. Electropherograms were evaluated and the results obtained were compared with the species recorded in the NCBI databases. In this study using molecular phylogenetic analysis for species identification, the lizards distributed in the Umuttepe Campus of Kocaeli University were determined to belong to Podarcis siculus (Istanbul lizard).
Kocaeli Üniversitesi Umuttepe Yerleşkesi’nde sıklıkla rastlanan kertenkeleler, moleküler düzeyde tür teşhisi yapılmak üzere yakalanıp, kuyruk bölgelerinden doku örnekleri alındı. Ardından DNA izolasyonu, evrensel mitokondrial COI ve 16S rRNA primerleri kullanılarak Polimeraz Zincir Reaksiyonu (PZR) ve DNA dizi analizleri yapıldı. Elektroferogramları değerlendirildi ve elde edilen sonuçlar NCBI veri tabanında kayıtlı kertenkele türleri ile karşılaştırıldı. Tür bazında moleküler filogenetik analiz yapılan bu çalışmada Kocaeli Üniversitesi’nde yayılış gösteren kertenkelelerin Podarcis siculus türüne (İstanbul Kertenkelesi) ait oldukları tespit edildi.
Polat, F. & Durgun, A.M. & Olacam, A. & Inci, G.S. & Doğan, M.B. & Uzun, E.D. & Işic, E. (2019) -
Polidori, E. & Caratti, G. (1992) -
Dans le bassin supérieur de la Tinée, la découverte du lézard des souches (Lacerta Agilis L.), espèce nouvelle pour le Parc national du Mercantour et le département des Alpes-Maritimes, a soulevé de nombreuses questions. Un protocole d`étude fut proposé par les auteurs pour répondre à quelques unes d`entre elles. Des données originales ont été obtenues dans 7 stations dans la vallée de la Haute-Tinée, 8 stations dans les Alpes de Haute Provence et une station sur le versant italien du Massif de l`Enchastraye. Ces résultats montrent aussi que les populations très discrètes et très localisées sont liées à un biotope caractéristique : la prairie d`altitude où domine, en général, la fetuque spadicée (Festuca spadicea l.).
Polini, N. & Marconi, M. (2000) -
Polivka, R. & Dienstbier, L.-K. & Lapp, M. & Bornholdt, G. & Hill, T. (2011) -
Im Rahmen des Bundesstichprobenmonitorings der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) in Hessen wurden 5 Gebiete mit Zauneidechsen - Vorkommen per Zufall ausgewählt und im Jahr 2011 untersucht. Im Gelände wurden Parameter zu den Hauptkriterien Zustand der Population, Habitatqualität und Beeinträchtigungen erhoben und in eigens dafür entwickelten Erfassungsbögen festgehalten. Die Einzelparameter wurden zu einer Wertstufe des Hauptkriteriums aggregiert, aus den Hauptkriterien wurde die Gesamtbewertung des Vorkommens abgeleitet. Die Ergebnisse der Bestandsaufnahme und Bewertung von jedem Einzelvorkommen werden dargestellt und diskutiert, soweit möglich werden Entwicklungstendenzen abgeleitet. Drei Vorkommen weisen einen guten (Wertstufe B) und zwei einen schlechten Erhaltungszustand (Wertstufe C) auf. In zwei Gebieten konnten keine Zauneidechsen nachgewiesen werden. Erfassungs- und Bewertungsmethode werden diskutiert und kritisch hinterfragt.
Polivka, R. & Lapp, M. & Heuck, C. & Hill, T. (2015) -
Polivka, R. & Lapp, M. & Hill, T. (2014) -
Im Rahmen des Bundesstichprobenmonitorings der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) in Hessen wurden 5 Gebiete mit Zauneidechsen - Vorkommen per Zufall ausgewählt und im Jahr 2011 zum ersten Mal untersucht (vgl. BIOPLAN 2012). Diese Untersuchung wurde in 2014 mit den gleichen Methoden wiederholt. In drei Fällen blieben die Untersuchungsflächen die gleichen, in zwei Fällen (Eichenau, Weilbach) wurde die Abgrenzung verändert (vgl. Karten im Anhang). Vier kleine Vorkommen werden mit Wertstufe C (mittel-schlecht) bewertet, das Vorkommen bei Weilbach mit Wertstufe B (gut).
Pollo, C.J. & Perez-Mellado, V. (1991) -
In this study we examine the structure of a Mediterranean lizard assemblage from the west of the Iberian peninsula. Four lizard species inhabit the area: Lacerta lepida, Psammodromus algirus, Psammodromus hispanicus and Acanthodactylus erythrurus . Activity patterns, microhabitat use and diet composition were studied in the latter three species. Activity patterns and microhabitat were found to be similar among species. However, unlike the results of studies on other Iberian lizard assemblages, we found an interspecific segregation along the trophic dimension. A tendency for myrmecophagy within the genus Acanthodactylus indicates that the trophic segregation of A. erythrurus is due to phylogenetic constraints. The diet of Psammodromus hispanicus , however, appears to be influenced by its small body size.
Polo, M.S. & Coladonato, A.J. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Sacchi, R. (2021) -
Polo, V. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2005) -
When prey take refuge to reduce predation risk, they forfeit time for other activities. They may also pay a physiological cost. In particular, optimal regulation of body temperature is essential for ectotherms. Qualitative models predict that lizards have to balance anti-predatory decisions in relation to thermal conditions of the refuge and predation risk when deciding when to resume activity. However, these models are not general and empirical tests of their assumptions are scarce. We modified previous models to include the case of a high and maintained level of predation risk. The predictions of the model were further investigated in a laboratory experiment using male Iberian rock lizards. The same level of predation risk was displayed in two treatments in which temperature inside the refuge was high or low, and in the mating or the post-reproductive season. As predicted, lizards increased successive emergence times - an increase that was not linear but accelerating - and they had shorter emergence times when thermal costs of refuge use were higher. Nevertheless, body size of lizards and the season of the experiment had no effect on these decision rules. Our results are in line with an economical balance between costs and benefits in the decision rules controlling active versus inactive periods
Polo, V. & López, P. & Martín, J. (2011) -
Resources invested by prey to acquire information on predator behavior from inside the refuge are crucial to minimize the risk of suffering a future fatal attack. However, most studies have only analyzed situations where information on the predator behavior is unavailable for hiding preys. Also, temporal patterns of risk may affect antipredatory behavior allocation. We simulated in outdoor terraria series of 2 types of predatory attacks (low vs. high risks) with different sequences of risks (predictable series vs. attacks where risk level changed randomly) to Iberian rock lizards. We measured time spent entirely hidden in refuges until appearing near the exit of the refuge (appearance time) and time spent leaning out of the refuge while monitoring the predator (monitoring time) after each predatory interaction. Monitoring time, irrespectively of the temporal pattern of risk, was higher after a single low-risk approach of the predator than after a direct unsuccessful attack. In addition, after multiple repeated interactions with the predator, there was a significant decrease in monitoring time with the sequence order of interactions but only when lizards fled to the refuge after low-risk approaches. Lizards spent more time monitoring the predator from inside the refuge after a low-risk approach, which may be explained because, if there has not been a clear attack, uncertainty on immediate future risk would be greater, and prey may need more time before leaving the refuge to ensure that a predator has not detected the lizard and that it is not ambushing near the refuge. Our study suggests that acquisition of information during and after an attack is important in determining refuge use as an antipredation response.
Polović, L. (2011) -
This paper presents the data on specimens of genera Algyroides, Dalmatolacerta and Dinarolacerta (Lacertidae) stored in the Herpetological Collection of the Natural History Museum of Montenegro. This part of Herpetological Collection includes 185 specimens belonging to 3 species: Algyroides nigropunctatus (40 specimens), Dalmatolacerta oxycephala (17 specimens) and Dinarolacerta mosorensis (128 specimens). All specimens were collected in Montenegro. The paper provides all relevant data on collected specimens.
Polović, L. & Cadenović, N. (2013) -
In Krnovo area we recorded 3 species of amphibians (Mesotriton alpestris, Bombina variegata, Bufo bufo) and 9 species of reptiles (Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Podarcis muralis, Dinarolacerta mosorensis, Natrix natrix, Natrix tessellata, Coronella austriaca, Zamenis longissimus, Vipera ammodytes) in 8 localities.
Polovic, L. & Cadenovic, N. (2014) -
Polović, L. & Cadenović, N. (2014) -
In this paper, we present the results of a study conducted in the Great Ulcinj Beach area, including its hinterland and Ada Island. In the study area, we recorded 10 species of amphibians (Lissotriton vulgaris, Bombina variegata, Bufo bufo, Pseudepidalea viridis, Hyla arborea, Pelophylax ridibundus, Pelophylax lessonae, Pelophylax shqipericus, Rana dalmatina, and Rana temporaria) and 20 species of reptiles (Testudo hermanni, Emys orbicularis, Mauremys rivulata, Caretta caretta, Hemidactylus turcicus, Lacerta viridis, Lacerta trilineata, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis melisellensis, Anguis fragilis, Pseudopus apodus, Natrix natrix, Natrix tessellata, Hierophis gemonensis, Dolichophis caspius, Zamenis longissimus, Elaphe quatuorlineata, Malpolon insignitus, Telescopus fallax, and Vipera ammodytes). Mauremys rivulata and Telescopus fallax were recorded for the rst time in this area.
Polović, L. & Ljubisavljević, K. (2007) -
External morphological traits of the Mosor rock lizard, Dinarolacerta mosorensis (Kolombatovic, 1886) from Lovcen mountain (Montenegro) were examined. The results of Descriptive statistics for 14 morphometric, 21 meristic and percentages of states for eight qualitative traits were presented. Results are discussed in comparison with the literature data for other populations.
Polović, L. & Ljubisavljević, K. (2011) -
Here we present data on the external morphology of an insular population of the lacertid lizard Dalmatian Algyroides (Algyroides nigropunctatus) from the island of Bisage in Lake Skadar in Montenegro. Morphological characteristics were examined on the basis of descriptive statistics for 14 morphometric, 16 meristic and percentages of states for 10 qualitative traits. We tested the diagnostic characters used to describe two subspecies of this species and confirmed that the studied population from the island of Bisage belong to nominal subspecies A. nigropunctatus nigropunctatus.
Polovic, L. & Pesic, V. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Cadenovic, N. (2013) -
We present basic data on the female reproductive traits and diet of the lacertid lizard Algyroides nigropunctatus from Bisage island in Lake Skadar (Montenegro) in late spring. Individual females commonly laid clutches of three (range 2 - 5) eggs with an average mass of 0.40 g. At least two clutches were produced in a breeding season. The female body size had no effect on clutch and egg size. There was no evidence of the predicted trade-off between egg size and clutch size. The diet was composed of various types of invertebrates, basically small arthropods, and also small amounts of plant material. Araneae and Coleoptera were the most common and the most important food items.
Polozichina, W.F. & Chalanskij, A.S. (1964) -
Polynova, G.V. & Misgustin, S.S. (2020) -
Materials on the spatial structure of the lizard Eremias arguta deserti (Gmelin, 1789) were collected in the sandy semi-deserts of the Astrakhan region during the 2017-2019 field seasons. Three-year studies at the level of intra-population grouping show a gradual reduction in the population size from season to season. During the mating season, the spatial structure of the grouping is first transformed from a system of overlapping individual plots of males and females (2017) into a system of isolated territories of sexual partners (2018), and then into a small grouping of isolated home ranges of females (2019). This is due to the fact that lizards are dispersed in the area of decreasing inherent open biotopes. The decrease is also typical for the nomadic part of the grouping, which confirms the general decline in the population in the surrounding area. The group is gradually ceasing to reproduce, as evidenced by the absence of immature individuals in all spring seasons and a decrease in the number of current year’s young at the end of summer 2018 compared to the same period in 2017. The main reason for the described process of population degradation is a change in the biotope characteristic of the species – the overgrowth of sand massifs, which has been observed in recent years in many areas of desert and semi-desert ecosystems. Observations show that the negative consequences of biotope overgrowth are the deterioration of conditions for movement and communication. The measurement of the projective cover and plant species diversity of phytocenosis, carried out on sample geobotanical plots in 2011, 2014 and 2017, indicates that the territory is being transformed into steppe. The main reason for steppification is the increase in total precipitation over the past decade from 2010 to 2019. The latter is confirmed by a positive correlation between the increase in the projective cover and the total amount of precipitation over this period.
Polynova, G.V. & Mishustin, S.S. & Polynova, O.E. (2020) -
Studies on the sex-age structure in a population of the multi-colored lizard (Eremias arguta deserti Gmelin1788) was carried out at the level of the elementary intra population group. Research area: sandy semi-desertsnear the village Dosang, Astrakhan Region. The groups’ definition was based on observations of the behavior,the published information about the species’ sex-age structure, confirmed by autopsy, and a statistical anal-ysis. The data obtained show the presence of five sex-age groups in the Spring population: immature individ-uals, half-adult males and females, and 2-year old mature males and females. In addition, according to theirsize, there were animals possibly older than 2 years, but they were singular. The September population of themulti-colored lizard was likewise divided into five age groups: juveniles, half-adult individuals of both sexes,and a small number of 1-year old mature individuals of both sexes. The Autumn intra-population group wasnot numerous, because by that time most of the adult animals had gone for hibernation. In Spring, the groupof semi-adult lizards was 7.2 times smaller than that of adults. In Autumn, the number of juveniles was2.1 times higher than in adults. In Spring, the sex ratio among the adult animals was close to 1 : 1, amongsemi-adults the females predominated numerically, while both in Spring and Autumn the females prevailedamongst the half-adults.
Polynova, G.V. & Polynova, O.E. (2023) -
The sandy massif Sarykum, whose age is about 100 thousand years, is an island habi- tat for psammophilic species of terrestrial vertebrates. The paper presents new morphometric data on the populations of two species of psammophilous lizards living in this area. These are the nominative subspecies of the Secret Toadheaded Agama (Phrynocephalus mystaceus mys- taceus Pallas, 1776) and the Caucasian Central Asian Racerunner (Eremias velox caucasica Lantz, 1928). Body length of sexually mature males of the Secret Toadheaded Agama averages 76.5±3.7 mm (n = 30), and adult females – 68.9±4.2 mm (n = 29). Comparison of the obtained materials with similar parameters of the Kazakhstan population of the subspecies shows that mature individuals of the Sarykum population are significantly smaller: for males td = 1.33 ≥ tst with a confidence level α = 0.80, and for females td = 2.07 ≥ tst with α = 0.95. It is known from the literature that all the pre-Caucasian populations of this species are isolated. Perhaps the small size of mature individuals in them also serve as an example of the manifestation of Fos- ter`s rule. The data of the presented study indicate a similar feature of the Sarykum population of the Caucasian Central Asian Racerunner. The body length of mature males at Sarykum is 63.6±2.9 mm (n = 9), and that of females is 58.4±3.0 mm (n = 17). The calculation of the relia- bility of differences by the Student coefficient shows that the length of the trunk of males (td = 2) and females (td = 0.61) of the Sarykum population does not statistically differ from the averaged materials for the region. At the same time, mature individuals of the Sarykum popula- tion are significantly smaller than the nominative subspecies from Kazakhstan: for males td = 1.40 ≥ tst with a confidence probability α = 0.80, and for females td = 2.20 ≥ tst with α = 0.95. It is obvious that Foster`s rule does not manifest itself in the subspecies population li- ving on the Sarykum sandy massif, and the conspicuous small size of mature individuals is de- termined by comparison with the size of the nominative subspecies. An interesting fact is that immature foot-and-mouth of both species do not differ in size from individuals of the same age of other populations. Probably, at this stage of ontogenesis, the overall physiologically optimal size for the species is preserved.
Полынова Г. В., Полынова О. Е. (2023) -
я. Песчаный массив Сарыкум, возраст которого насчитывает около 100 тыс. лет, представляет собой островное местообитание для псаммофильных видов наземных поз- воночных. В работе представлены новые морфометрические данные по популяциям двух видов псаммофильных ящериц, обитающих на данной территории. Это номинативный подвид ушастой круглоголовки (Phrynocephalus mystaceus mystaceus Pallas, 1776) и кав- казская быстрая ящурка (Eremias velox caucasica Lantz, 1928). Длина туловища полово- зрелых самцов ушастой круглоголовки составляет в среднем 76.5±3.7 мм (n = 30), а взрос- лых самок – 68.9±4.2 мм (n = 29). Сравнение полученных материалов с аналогичными па- раметрами казахстанской популяции подвида показывает, что половозрелые особи сары- кумской популяции достоверно мельче: для самцов td = 1.33 ≥ tst при доверительной веро- ятности α = 0.80, а для самок td = 2.07 ≥ tst при α = 0.95. Из литературы известно, что все предкавказские популяции этого вида являются изолированными. Возможно, маленькие размеры половозрелых особей у них также служат примером проявления правила Фос- тера. Данные представленного исследования проверили возможность существования ана- логичной особенности размеров и сарыкумской популяции кавказской быстрой ящурки. Длина туловища половозрелых самцов на Сарыкуме составляет 63.6±2.9 мм (n = 9), самок – 58.4±3.0 мм (n = 17). Расчет достоверности различий по коэффициенту Стьюдента пока- зывает, что длина туловища самцов (td = 2) и самок (td = 0.61) сарыкумской популяции ста- тистически не отличается от усредненных материалов по региону. При этом половозрелые особи сарыкумской популяции достоверно мельче номинативного подвида из Казахстана: для самцов td = 1.40 ≥ tst при доверительной вероятности α = 0.80, а для самок td = 2.20 ≥ tst при α = 0.95. Очевидно, что правило Фостера не проявляется в обитающей на песчаном массиве Сарыкум популяции подвида, а бросающиеся в глаза небольшие размеры поло- возрелых особей определяются сравнением с размерами номинативного подвида. Инте- ресен тот факт, что неполовозрелые ящерицы обоих видов не отличаются по размеру от особей того же возраста других популяций. Вероятно, на данном этапе онтогенеза сохра- няется общий физиологически оптимальный для вида размер.
Polynova, G.V. & Polynova, O.E. & Leonova, A.A. (2024) -
The article is based on materials on age-related changes in the color of the lower sur- face of the tail and back of the thighs in the population of the Rapid racerunner (Eremias velox velox Pallas, 1771), living on the Sarykum sandy massif. The material was collected in the first ten days of May 2023. A total of 110 individuals were caught and described: 44 males, 36 fe- males and 30 immature individuals. The size characteristics of sex and age groups are given. It is known that in immature individuals the lower surface of the tail and the back of the thighs are blood-red to orange in color, while in adult animals the entire lower surface of the body and tail is white. The research materials clarify the course of these age-related changes. In Sarykum males, the change from juvenile to adult coloration occurs with the onset of sexual maturity. In females, this process is extended and most lizards across a wide range of sizes retain the colora- tion of the young, with some lightening options. In immature individuals, the coloration in the orange-red range is characteristic of all animals, but in 16.7% of lizards the process of its light- ening begins. It can be assumed that the latter will turn out to be males in the future. For the de- scription, the RGB color code table is used according to two color codes: HTML/CSS color name and decimal code (RGB).
Г.В. Полынова, О.Е. Полынова & А.А. Леонова (2024) -
В основе статьи лежат материалы по возрастным изменениям окраски ниж- ней поверхности хвоста и бедер в популяции быстрой ящурки, Eremias velox velox (Pallas, 1771), обитающей на песчаном массиве Сарыкум. Материал собран в первую декаду мая 2023 г. Всего прижизненно было изучено 110 особей: 44 самца, 36 самок и 30 неполо- возрелых особей. Приведены размерные характеристики половозрастных групп. Извест- но, что у неполовозрелых особей нижняя поверхность хвоста и задние части бедер имеют окраску от кроваво-красного до оранжевого цвета, а у взрослых животных вся нижняя поверхность тела и хвоста белого цвета. Материалы исследования уточняют ход этих воз- растных изменений. У самцов смена ювенильной окраски на взрослую происходит с нас- туплением половозрелости. У самок этот процесс растягивается, и большинство ящериц в широком диапазоне размеров сохраняют окраску молодняка с некоторыми вариантами осветления. У неполовозрелых особей окраска в оранжево-красном диапазоне характерна для всех животных, но у 16.7% ящериц начинается процесс её осветления. Можно предпо- ложить, что последние в будущем окажутся самцами. Для описания использована Таблица цветовых кодов RGB по двум цветовым кодам: имя цвета HTML / CSS и десятичный код (RGB).
Pons, F.S. & Pérez Soler, P. (2012) -
Pons, G. & Palmer, M. (1996) -
Ponti, R. & Carreteri, M.A. & Sannolo, M. (2018) -
Poole, J.R. & Smith, J. & Hesselberg, T. & Pafilis, P. (2025) -
The Aegean Islands are a known hotspot for herpetofauna and have been extensively studied in this area. However, there are still numerous islands that lack this research. This includes the uninhabited islet of Despotiko found in the Paros Archipelago, Cyclades. It is known for its importance in archaeology, which, in turn, attracts tourism. However, there is not yet a complete understanding of the presence of herpetofauna there, with the last published records written in 1977. In an effort to address this, a combination of past ad-hoc sightings and visual surveys was carried out during the summer of 2024. These yielded two new records of reptile species, Eryx jaculus and Lacerta citrovittata. Furthermore, the enclosed archaeological site had greater reptile diversity and rich ness than outside the site. This highlights the potential importance of the archaeological site as a key reptile habitat. Our findings help to improve our understanding of reptilian diversity in the archipelago, providing avenues for further research into the potential interactions between archaeological sites and reptile diversity.
Pope, C. (1928) -
Pope, C. (1929) -
Pope, C.H. (1935) -
Popgeorgiev, G.S. & Kornilev, V.V. (2009) -
The numerous fires during the past decade in the Eastern Rhodopes (southeastern Bulgaria) resulted in extensive loss of habitat for multiple species. In this study on the reptilian fauna found near Kolets village (Haskovo District, Bulgaria) we compared two adjacent territories during 2004–2006, a control and a recently burned. We found no effect on the Shannon-Wiener index of biological diversity (mean for the three years: Hburned = 0.488, Hcontrol = 0.498). However, fire led to decrease of abundance (Ab, individuals / 1000 m), best detected for the following species: Testudo hermanni (Abburned = 1.8, Abcontrol = 5.6; p = 0.003316), T. graeca (Abburned = 1.1, Abcontrol = 3.2; p = 0.071786), Lacerta viridis (Abburned = 16.8, Abcontrol = 40.6; p = 0.000263), and L. trilineata (Abburned = 6.8, Abcontrol = 19.2; p = 0.000879), where values for Ab are combined for 2004–2006.
Popgeorgiev, G.S. & Kornilev, Y.V. (2009) -
Popgeorgiev, G.S. & Mollov, I.A. (2005) -
Popgeorgiev, G.S. & Tzankov, N.D: & Kornilev, V.V. & Naumov, B.Y. & Stoyanov, A.Y. (2014) -
We present the first comprehensive review of the diversity of the herpetofauna of the Natura 2000 site Ponor Special Protection Area. We compiled data from 22 publications covering 20 species and carried out multiple field visits between 1998–2012, recording 375 locations confirming all previously reported species and reporting four new species. These are Hyla arborea complex, Bufotes viridis complex, Coronella austriaca and Zamenis longissimus; we exclude Anguis fragilis complex due to recent taxonomic changes in this group. The presence of three additional potential species (Emys orbicularis, Testudo hermanni and Darevskia praticola) remains to be confirmed. All collected localities fall within 60 of 113 2×2 UTM squares, providing > 53% coverage. The elevation ranges for the species generally conform with their expected distributions in Bulgaria. Nine habitat types are of particular importance for the herpetofauna in Ponor Special Protection Area (Shannon diversity index H’ ≥ 2.00), containing 77% of the locations for the observed species and 100% of the species. Four are either open habitats with high level of naturalness or small-scale extensive agricultural lands and four are natural broad-leaf forests. The currently obtained herpetological data can be used in the development of future management plans for this protection area and should be included in the update of the Natura 2000 Standard Data Form. Ponor Special Protection Area is demonstrated as a site of substantial local importance for the conservation of amphibian and reptile communities.
Popova, S. & Vacheva, E. & Naumov, B. (2023) -
Thermal ecology is critical for the study of the biology of every living species. Accordingly, body temperature affects the performance and fitness of animals. In the particular case of ectotherms, this effect is further reinforced since they rely on environmental conditions for heat adjustment. Current air and substrate temperatures are among the crucial sources of regulation for their body heat. In the case of lizards, various behavioral techniques are employed to insure their thermoregulation and therefore survival. The aim of the present study is to identify the basic thermal preferences of Lacerta agilis bosnica, including possible age and sex related variations. This lacertid subspecies is endemic to the high mountains across the Balkan Peninsula and limited between 1100 and 2200 m above sea level. Our results revealed highest body temperature of 35.9°C and lowest – of 19.5°C both measured in adult females. We calculated the average thermoadaptation index (Ti) of 1.27 for all individuals. Furthermore, the positive correlations of lizard body temperature (Tb) compared to air (Ta) and to substrate (Ts) temperatures were highest in immature males, while lowest - in adult males. We found statistically significant differences between the age/sex groups within Tb and Ta. Regarding Ts and Ti, the tests did not show significant differences between the groups. We concluded that L. agilis bosnica is a taxon adapted to low ambient temperatures. With this discovery we contributed to the exploration of the understudied subspecies Lacerta agilis bosnica.
Popova, S. & Vacheva, E. & Tzankov, N. (2019) -
Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) among species from the Lacertidae family is expressed mainly in body and head size, with males being larger than females, having larger heads but shorter trunks in relation to body size. Most lacertid species display male-biased SSD, but in few species, such as Lacerta agilis, females display larger size. The sand lizard Lacerta agilis is one of the most widespread lizard species in Eurasia and inhabits an area from central Greece and south Armenia to south Sweden in the North, and from Great Britain to the lake Baikal in the East. At least nine subspecies are currently recognized and two of them occur in Bulgaria. In the present study we analysed SSD in the poorly known subspecies Lacerta agilis bosnica, which inhabits the mountain areas on the Balkan Peninsula. We examined 9 somatometric traits, which were transformed into 10 indices, describing body proportions. All of the measurements were taken in live animals captured in mountains in Western Bulgaria (the mountains of Vitosha, Osogovo, Stara Planina, and Plana). We established statistically significant differences between the sexes in 9 of the indices. The differences could be described as follows: males have longer tails, longer legs (fore and hind legs), and larger heads (both in length and width). The similarities and differences in regards to SSD in other taxa from the genus Lacerta (for which similar research was done in Bulgaria) are further discussed.
Popova, S. & Vacheva, E. & Zlatanova, D. & Tzankov, N. (2020) -
Habitat selection is an important mechanism for alleviation and reduction of inter- and intraspecific competition in lizards. We examined the poorly studied Balkan subspecies of the sand lizard – Lacerta agilis bosnica, as a target taxon to define the importance of grass height and density, which are key microhabitat features that shape sand lizard’s distribution. The study was conducted in three mountains in western Bulgaria during 2014–2019. A total of 350 (190 adults and 160 immatures) lizards were examined. We established a diverse microhabitat use in different age classes as well as some differences between sexes. Adult males were attached to the most suitable and secure microhabitats, those with higher vegetation, while adult females and both immature groups occupied less optimal microhabitats. The importance of vegetation height and density should be taken into account during planning and application of conservation measures for L. agilis bosnica.
Popp, B. (1934) -
Porkert, J. & Grosseova, M. (1984) -
Porkert, J. & Grosseová, M. (1986) -
Porte, A. & Zahnd, J.P. & Batzenschlager, A. (1964) -
Portevin, G. (1942) -
Portik, D.M. & Jongsma, G.F.M. & Kouete, M.T. & Scheinberg, L.A. & Freiermuth, B. & Tapondjou, W.P. & Blackburn, D.C. (2016) -
We performed surveys at several lower elevation sites surrounding Mt. Kupe, a mountain at the southern edge of the Cameroonian Highlands. This work resulted in the sampling of 48 species, including 38 amphibian and 10 reptile species. By combining our data with prior survey results from higher elevation zones, we produce a checklist of 108 species for the greater Mt. Kupe region including 72 frog species, 21 lizard species, and 15 species of snakes. Our work adds 30 species of frogs at lower elevations, many of which are associated with breeding in pools or ponds that are absent from the slopes of Mt. Kupe. We provide taxonomic accounts, including museum specimen data and associated molecular data, for all species encountered. Finally, we compare the levels of biodiversity of Mt. Kupe to other regions, discuss biogeographic ties to other montane systems, and note current conservation threats.
Portniagina, E.Y. & Maslova, I.V. & Han, S.-H. (2019) -
The paper discusses biotopical and altitudinal distribution of Takydromus amurensis Peters, 1881 and Takydromus wolteri Fischer, 1885 inhabiting the north-eastern Asia. These species demonstrate in this area the changes of biotopical preference. T. amurensis prefers to occupy the forest zone less actively than in the southern part of range, 46 vs. 91%, respectively. T. wolteri avoids open spaces and partially enters the forest zone (7%). Both T. amurensis and T. wolteri actively inhabit the light forest zone (15 and 17%, respectively) and anthropogenic region (39 and 76%, respectively), the zone being optimal for their inhabitancy. In the southern part of natural habitat (Republic of Korea), the light forest zone plays an important role in their biotopical distribution (9% T. amurensis and 36% T. wolteri), though it is less preferred when compared to north-eastern part of the range. Two sites in the forest zone with weakly anthropogenic disruption (one in Russia and the other in Republic of Korea) were revealed, where species symbiotopy was observed. In both cases, T. wolteri was a predominant species. For the first time the altitudinal distribution data for lizards of genus Takydromus has been presented, in particular, for Russia. T. amurensis was found in the range of 11 – 633 m a.s.l. and T. wolteri — 14 – 321 m a.s.l. Maximal amplitude of altitudinal distribution of studied species has been indicated for the light forest zone. On the territory of Korea, T. wolteri has been found to have wider range of vertical distribution 4 – 424 m a.s.l.
Posillico, M. & Brugnola, L. & Cameli, A. & D´Amico, M. & Ferri, V. & Pellegrini, M. & Pinchera, F. (2016) -
Positano-Spada, D. (1892) -
Posselt, H. (1933) -
Post, J. (1957) -
Potrykus, W. & Strätz, C. (2000) -
Pottier, G. (2001) -
Pottier, G. (2005) -
Pottier, G. (2007) -
Découvert en 1922 dans les Hautes-Pyrénées, le Lézard pyrénéen de Bonnal (Iberolacerta bonnali) est une espèce endémique de la ceinture alpine des Pyrénées centrales, inscrite à l’annexe 2 de la directive européenne Habitats – Faune –Flore. En France, son aire de répartition est presque entièrement située sur le territoire du Parc National des Pyrénées, et en grande partie intégrée aux sites Natura 2000 qui s’y trouvent. Souhaitant optimiserla conservation de cette espèce à forte valeur patrimoniale envers laquelle sa responsabilité est très élevée, le P.N.P. a commandé une étude visant à mieux connaître le Lézard pyrénéen de Bonnal, et comprenant les volets suivants: répartition spatiale et altitudinale, sélection d’habitat, structuration génétique des populations à différentes échelles spatiales, dynamique des populations, biométrie et relation avec les lacertidés sympatriques et syntopiques, notamment le Lézard des murailles Podarcis muralis. Après avoir présenté les caractéristiques du Lézard pyrénéen de Bonnal et du Parc National des Pyrénées, nous livrons les résultats de cette étude: ayant découvert de nombreuses localités nouvelles de l’espèce distribuées sur l’ensemble des massifs du P.N.P., nous avons pu établir que l’espèce occupe la quasi-totalité de son aire de répartition potentielle (étage alpin) sur la zone d’étude. Cependant, la structuration génétique des populations révèle un faible taux (voire une absence) de connexion, y compris entre localités proches, ce fait étant à mettre en relation avec la distribution de l’habitat favorable et la faible mobilité de l’espèce. Enfin, le Lézard des murailles apparaît comme un compétiteur. Ainsi, bien qu’occupant des zones de moyenne et haute montagne relativement reculées où l’impact des nuisances écologiques d’origine humaine apparaît a priori négligeable, le Lézard pyrénéen de Bonnal se présente comme une espèce vulnérable du fait de la fragmentation de ses populations et de la possibilité d’une compétition accrue avec le Lézard des murailles en raison du réchauffement climatique.
Pottier, G. (2008) -
Pottier, G. (2012) -
Pottier, G. (2015) -
Pottier, G. (2016) -
The wet Atlantic heaths vs. industrialization: Chronicle of the extinction of the Common Lizard in the plain south of Tarbes (Hautes-Pyrénées ). The common lizard Zootoca vivipara has a very fragmented distribution in the lowlands of the Hautes-Pyrénées, where it only survives west of Tarbes, in some residual humid heaths. The species is nowadays unknown in the cultivated lowlands south of Tarbes, but the testimony of the naturalist Pierre Beck proves it used to occupy one Atlantic heath in the village of Odos during the 1940’s, that have disappeared during the 1970’s. The chronology and context of the extinction of this natural habitat and of the common lizard are developed and discussed.
Les Reptiles des Pyrénées traite en détail les 32 espèces protégées présentes sur l’ensemble de la chaîne (France, Espagne et Andorre). Cette faune herpétologique est le résultat d’une entreprise naturaliste combinant enquête bibliographique et reportage photographique. Elle propose une vaste synthèse de données relatives à plusieurs champs disciplinaires – systématique, taxinomie, biogéographie, écologie, biologie… – jusque-là dispersées dans plusieurs centaines d’articles et ouvrages. Les variations phénotypiques et les particularités écologiques des serpents, lézards et tortues occupant l’espace pyrénéen y sont illustrées par de très nombreuses photographies exclusivement réalisées in situ, de 2 m à 3 143 m d’altitude. Des cartes de répartition précises (mailles UTM 10 km × 10 km), basées sur des sources scientifiques, complètent et éclairent le propos biogéographique. Les espèces et sous-espèces endémiques ou subendémiques de la chaîne, de même que celles qui y ont un statut particulier (très localisées, vulnérables…), ont fait l’objet d’une attention particulière et les menaces qui pèsent sur les reptiles des Pyrénées sont largement exposées. Cet ouvrage sera précieux pour les pyrénéistes, naturalistes et gestionnaires d’espaces naturels de la chaîne (parc national, réserves, sites Natura 2000, parcs naturels régionaux…), qui disposeront là d’une mine d’informations sur le sujet.
Pottier, G. (2018) -
Pottier, G. & Arthur, C.-P. & Weber, L. & Cheylan, M. (2013) -
Les trois lézards endémiques des Pyrénées: Iberolacerta aranica, Iberolacerta aurelioi et Iberolacerta bonnali, ont fait l`objet de plusieurs travaux de terrain sur le versant français de la chaîne depuis 1999. Ces travaux ont permis d`acquérir d`importantes données chorologiques sur ces trois espèces, en particuliers de nombreuses localités nouvelles qui modifient parfois sensiblement le patron de leur aire de répartition connue (tant horizontalement que verticalement). Ces données, en majorité inédites, sont ici compilées et commentées. Elles démontrent que, contrairement à ce qui était précédemment supposé, une part importante de l`effectif mondial de ces trois espèces (plus de la moitié dans le cas d`I. aranica) se situe sur le territoire français. La responsabilité de la France vis-à-vis de ces trois espèces s`en trouve sensiblement accrue. Le présent article, dernier d`une série de trois, est consacré au Lézard de Bonnal, Iberolacerta bonnali.
Pottier, G. & Barthe, L. & Cochard, P.-O. & Cheylan, M. & Geniez, P. & Rau, P.D. du (2017) -
Pottier, G. & Calvez, O. & Deso, G. (2007) -
Garzón`s Sand lizard Lacerta agilis garzoni is a subalpine subspecies, endemic of the eastern part of Pyrenees, completely isolated from the rest of the species` range. It is only known with certainty from the Mediterranean catchment basin of the mountain range, within an area with a particular climatic influence - i.e. continental peri-mediterranean. Although a documented observation from a non precise locality on the Atlantic catchment basin (upper Ariége valley) was cited at the beginning of the 20th century in Ariége, no reliable data has been collected from that area since. Indeed, the rare later sightings from that `département` and in other parts of the Atlantic catchment basin are not documented, refer to abnormally low localities and could not be validated. They therefore very likely result of confusions with the lined form of the Western Green Lizard Lacerta bilineata, widely distributed in Ariége up to high altitudes. A recent Held work campaign to clarify the status and distribution of L. a. garzoni in Ariége enabled to find two localities close to that mentioned at the beginning of the 20th century, that appear to correspond to a small overflow of the population of Upper Cerdagne (département des Pyrénées-Orientales) onto the Atlantic catchment basin via the Puymorens Pass. The status and distribution of L. a. garzoni in Ariége are discussed, and orientation are given for future prospecting.
Pottier, G. & Cochard, O.-O. & Barthe, L. & Cheylan, M. & Geniez, P. & Defos du Rau, P. (2017) -
Distribution and status of the Ocellated lizard Timon lepidus (Daudin, 1802) (Squamata, Sauria, Lacertidae) in western “Occitanie” (ancient “Midi-Pyrénées” region in the Southwest of France). The current knowledge of the Ocellated lizard Timon lepidus’s distribution and status in the former “Midi-Pyrénées” region is exposed. This lizard is at present known of six French departments (“Tarn-et-Garonne”, “Lot”, “Aveyron”, “Tarn”, “Ariège” and “Haute-Garonne”) where it is very unevenly distributed, the “Lot” and the “Aveyron” being the most widely occupied. The low detectability of the species is discussed too.
Pottier, G. & Delmas, C. & Duquesne, A. & Garric, J. & Paumier, J.-M. & Sfreddo, G. & Tessier, M. & Verge, J. (2010) -
Several field studies have focussed on the three Pyrenean endemic lizards (Iberolacerta aranica, Iberolacerta aurelioi and Iberolacerta bonnali) on the French side of the Pyrenees mountain range from 1999 to 2009. The studies allowed acquisition of important distributional data, all three species having been discovered in many new localities, sometimes considerably increasing their known distribution range (spatial and altitudinal). These data, mostly unpublished, have been compiled and are presented here. This improved knowledge demonstrates that, contrary to prior belief, a large part of the worldwide populations of these three species (a major part in the case of I. aranica) are actually located in France. This noticeably increases the conservation duty of France for these three species. The current article, first of a series of three, is devoted to Aran’s Rock Lizard, Iberolacerta aranica.
Pottier, G. & Garric, J. (2006) -
Trois localités du Lézard pyrénéen du Val d’Aran I b e ro l a c e rta aranica sont signalées en France dans le massif du Mont Valier (département de l’Ariège), situées au-delà de la limite orientale connue de l’aire de répartition de l’espèce (zone du port d’Orle et du pic de Barlonguère). La présence avérée d’I. aranica dans ce massif augmente sensiblement la surface de l’aire de répartition connue de l’espèce, et accroît le degré de responsabilité conservatoire de la France vis-à-vis de ce taxon très localisé, endémique de l’étage alpin des Pyrénées centrales.
Pottier, G. & Rapin, J.L. & Talhoet, S. (2014) -
The ocellated lizard Timon lepidus was sighted for the first time in the Truyère valley, a right bank tributary of the Lot river. It is, according to current knowledge, the most internal sightings in the Cantal mountains. This new localities also rep- resents the most northern known points for this species in the Aveyron Département (Midi-Pyrenees region).
Pough, F.H. & Busack, S.D. (1978) -
1. 1.In the field, adult fringe-toed lizards (Acanthodactylus erythrusus) had a mean body temperature of 38.8 ± 0.2 (S.E.) °C while subadults maintained a significantly lowr temperature ( ). 2. 2.Laboratory measurements of oxygen consumption, ventilation frequency, and heart rate indicate that temperatures above 38°C are stressful to subadults. 3. 3.Activity periods of subadults are curtailed by high temperatures for 3 months in summer while the activity of the more thermophilic adults is curtailed only during July and August. 4. 4.Some lizards maintained a high metabolic rate by achieving a low Q10 ( ) between 13 and 25°C. 5. 5.Because these lizards initiate activity at black body temperatures of 13°C in their natural habitat, the ability to sustain high rates of aerobic metabolism at low temperatures is probably valuable.
Poulakakis, N. (2005) -
The complex geological history of the Balkan Peninsula and especially of the Hellenic area (multiple geological events of land connections) during the late Tertiary have likely contributed to the diversification and distribution of many terrestrial animals. Located at the margin of the Eurasian and African plates, this area has experienced tremendous geological alterations since the late Tertiary. Connections offered the opportunities for biological dispersal, while submergence of land bridges brought about distributive isolation among related taxa. If this was a major element influencing the formation of the rich fauna of the Hellenic area, then the phylogenetic relationships of terrestrial taxa should reflect these paleogeographic events. Compared with what is known for the geological history of this region, the impact of those geological events on the historical biogeography of terrestrial animals is less well understood. The reconstruction of phylogenies is of primary importance in the understating of the dynamic patterns of evolution, i.e. the biogeography of a group and the bases of its biological diversity at any level. Although the phylogeny of the genus Podarcis has been the subject of much discussion the relationships among the species are still unclear. Because morphology is so uniform, it provides few characters for phylogenetic analysis, and these tend to be conflicting. Various karyological, immunological and protein electrophoretic studies have been made, but these usually involve only a minority of species, and results from different species combinations are equivocal. Wall lizards of the genus Podarcis (Sauria, Lacertidae) comprises 17-18 currently recognized species in southern Europe, where they are the predominant reptile group. The taxonomy of Podarcis is complex and unstable. Based on DNA sequence data the species of Podarcis falls into four main groups that have substantial geographic coherence (Western Island group, South western group, Italian group and Balkan group). The Balkan species are divided in two subgroups: the subgroup of P. taurica (P. taurica, P. milensis, P. gaigeae and perhaps P. melisellensis), and the subgroup of P. erhardii (P. erhardii and P. peloponnesiaca). We addressed the question of phylogenetic relations among the species of Podarcis encountered in Balkan Peninsula, as they can be inferred from partial mtDNA (cyt b and 16S) and nuclear (c-mos) sequences. Our data support the monophyly of Podarcis and suggest that there are three phylogenetic clades: the clade of P. taurica (P. taurica, P. gaigeae, P. milensis, and P. melisellensis); the clade of P. erhardii (P. erhardii and P. peloponnesiaca) and the clade of P. muralis (P. muralis and P. sicula). The phylogenetic affiliations produced from the molecular data do not agree with the species and especially subspecies groupings predicted from the morphological classification of the populations sampled. By examining intraspecific variability we have found that extant populations of P. erhardii are paraphyletic. The high level of genetic differentiation observed in the mtDNA data between the P. erhardii populations from the Crete and Pori islands and the rest of P. erhardii samples from Cyclades and continental Greece and its phylogenetic position raises questions regarding the inclusion of those populations (Crete and Pori) within P. erhardii. Since, based on morphology, P. peloponnesiaca is a well defined species found in sympatry with P. e. livadhiaca and accepted today as such, then Podarcis from Crete and Pori would also need to be raised to specific rank to avoid the paraphyly of P. erhardii. However, although the differentiation of populations from Crete and Pori islands is clear, we suggest the use of PhyloCode in order to avoid taxonomic confusion at least until further research mainly on morphology becomes available. Thus, for the time being, we refer to wall lizards of Crete and Pori P. erhardii*. With regard to morphological subspecies of P. taurica, P. gaigeae and P. erhardii, it is clear that they do not represent monophyletic units and should be re-evaluated in the light of new evidence. The topology of the phylogenetic trees produced and the genetic distances among the clades of the Podarcis may describe a biogeographic hypothesis for these species in the Balkan area. The pattern of the distribution of the proposed taxa is congruent with existing paleogeographic evidence, as inferred by the application of a molecular clock, which supports the view that DNA sequences may be a useful tool for the study of paleogeography. The data analyzed, stress the need for a reconsideration of the evolutionary history of Balkan Podarcis species and help overcome difficulties that classical taxonomy has encountered at both the species and subspecies level. As a whole, the examination of mtDNA lineages in the lizards of genus Podarcis may contribute substantially to the refining of its taxonomic status. Phylogenetic information can now be added to the knowledge of their morphology and distribution, producing a more accurate taxonomy for this group. Our results also confirm that the molecular information in conjunction with geological data can be used to resolve questions about the paleogeography of a region or on the phylogeography of a species.
Poulakakis, N. & Goulielmos, G. & Antoniou, A. & Zouros, E. & Mylonas, M. (2005) -
Five polymorphic microsatellite loci (containing di- and penta-nucleotide repeats) were developed for the Erhard`s wall lizard, Podarcis erhardii, an endemic species of southern Balkan Peninsula. The number of alleles ranged from five to 17. Observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.28 to 0.92 and 0.57 to 0.91, respectively. These markers will provide a valuable tool for population genetics analyses and can contribute to the evaluation of conservation programs.
Poulakakis, N. & Kapli, P. & Kardamaki, A. & Skourtanioti, E. & Göcmen, B. & Ilgaz, Ç. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Avci, A. & Lymberakis, P. (2013) -
The colonization patterns of oceanic islands are often interpreted through transmarine dispersal. However, in islands with intense human activities and unclear geological history, this inference may be inappropriate. Cyprus is such an island, whose geotectonic evolution has not been clarified yet to the desired level for biogeographical reconstructions, leaving the questions of ‘how the Cypriote biota arrived’ and ‘does the dispersal have the formative role in patterns of its diversification’ unanswered. Here, we address these issues through a reconstruction of the evolutionary history of six herptiles (Ablepharus budaki, Ophisops elegans, Acanthodactylus schreiberi, Telescopus fallax, Pelophylax cf. bedriagae, and Hyla savignyi) by means of mitochondrial DNA (cytochrome b and 16S rRNA), applying a Bayesian phylogenetic, biogeographical, and chronophylogenetic analyses. The phylogeographical analyses show that the colonization history of those species in Cyprus started in the late Miocene and extended into the Pliocene and Pleistocene, with geodispersal, transmarine dispersal, and human-mediated dispersal having their share in shaping the diversification of Cypriote herptiles. The revealed patterns could be divided into three biogeographical categories: old colonizers that arrived in Cyprus during the late Miocene or early Pliocene either by a land bridge (geodispersal) which connected Cyprus with the mainland or by transmarine dispersal, younger colonizers that reached the island through transmarine dispersal from the Middle East, and new settlers that arrived through human-induced (voluntary or not) introductions. This work advances our knowledge of the biogeography of Cyprus and highlights the need to consider both geo- and transmarine dispersal when dealing with islands whose associations do not have a straightforward interpretation.
Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Antoniou, A. & Chalkia, D. & Zouros, E. & Mylanos, M. & Valakos, E. (2003) -
Erhard’s wall lizard, Podarcis erhardii (Sauria: Lacertidae), is highly diversified in Greece and especially in the southern Aegean region. Out of the 28 recognized subspecies, 27 are found in Greece from the North Sporades island-complex in the North Aegean (grossly south of the 39th parallel) to the island of Crete in the South. The species exhibits great morphological and ecological plasticity and inhabits many different habitats from rocky islets and sandy shores to mountaintops as high as 2000 m. By examining intraspecific variability at a segment of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b we have found that that extant populations of P. erhardii are paraphyletic. Furthermore, we have found that subspecies previously defined on the basis of morphological characteristics do not correspond to different molecular phylogenetic clades, so that their status should be reconsidered. The DNA based biogeographical and phylogenetic history of Podarcis in Southern Greece is congruent with available paleogeographic data of the region, which supports the view that DNA sequences may be a useful tool for the study of palaeogeography.
Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Valakos, E. & Pafilis, P. & Zouros, E. & Mylonas, M. (2006) -
Wall lizards of the genus Podarcis (Sauria, Lacertidae) comprises 17 currently recognized species in southern Europe, where they are the predominant reptile group. The taxonomy of Podarcis is complex and unstable. Based on DNA sequence data the species of Podarcis fall into four main groups that they have substantial geographic conherence (Western Island group, Southwestern group, Italian group and Balkan group). The Balkan species, is divided in two subgroups, the subgroup of P. taurica, P. milensis, P. gaigeae, P. melisellensis and the subgroup of P. erhardi and P. peloponnesiaca, which are highly diversified and present great morphological and ecological plasticity, inhabiting many different ecotypes. We address the question of phylogenetic relations among the species of the Podarcis taurica subgroup encountered in Greece, as they can be inferred from partial mtDNA (cyt b and 16S) and nuclear (c-mos) sequences. Our data suggest that P. gaigeae is closely related to P. milensis and both P. gaigae and P. milensis to P. taurica. However the specimens of P. taurica are subdivided in two different groups. The first includes the specimens from Russia and Northeastern Greece and the other the specimens from the rest of continental Greece and Ionian Islands. This result suggests that the evolutionary history of P. taurica in Greece is more complex than a single evolutionary invasion. The data analyzed stress the need for a reconsideration of the evolutionary history of Greek Podarcis species and help overcome difficulties that classical taxonomy has encountered at both the specific but mostly the sub- specific level of this genus.
Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Valakos, E. & Pafilis, P.& Zouros, S. & Mylonas, M. (2004) -
Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Valakos, E. & Zouros, E. & Mylonas, M. (2005) -
Wall lizards of the genus Podarcis (Sauria, Lacertidae) comprise 17 currently recognized species in southern Europe, where they are the predominant nonavian reptile group. The taxonomy of Podarcis is complex and unstable. Based on DNA sequence data, the species of Podarcis falls into four main groups that have substantial geographic coherence (Western island group, southwestern group, Italian group, and Balkan Peninsula group). The Balkan Peninsula species are divided into two subgroups: the subgroup of P.taurica (P. taurica, P. milensis, P. gaigeae, and perhaps P. melisellensis), and the subgroup of P. erhardii (P. erhardii and P. pelo- ponnesiaca). In the present study, the question of phylogenetic relationships among the species of Podarcis encountered in the Balkan Peninsula was addressed using partial mtDNA sequences for cytochrome b (cyt b) and 16S rRNA (16S). The data support the mono- phyly of Podarcis and suggest that there are three phylogenetic clades: the clade A (P. taurica, P. gaigeae, P. milensis, and P. melisell- ensis); the clade B (P. erhardii and P. peloponnesiaca), and the clade C (P. muralis and P. sicula). By examining intraspeciWc relationships it was found that extant populations of P. erhardii are paraphyletic. Furthermore, subspecies previously deWned on the basis of morphological characteristics do not correspond to diVerent molecular phylogenetic clades, suggesting that their status should be reconsidered. The distinct geographic distribution of the major clades of the phylogenetic tree and its topology suggest a spatial and temporal sequence of phylogenetic separations that coincide with some major paleogeographic separations during the geological history of the Aegean Sea. The results stress the need for a reconsideration of the evolutionary history of Balkan Podarcis species and help overcome diYculties that classical taxonomy has encountered at both the species and subspecies level.
Wall lizards of the genus Podarcis (Sauria, Lacertidae) comprise 17 currently recognized species in southern Europe, where they are the predominant reptile group. The taxonomy of Podarcis is complex and unstable. Based on DNA sequence data the species of Podarcis falls into four main groups that have substantial geographical conherence (western island group, southwestern group, Italian group and Balkan group). The Balkan species are divided in two subgroups: the subgroup of Podarcis taurica ( P. taurica, P. milensis, P. gaigeae and perhaps P. melisellensis ), and the subgroup of Podarcis erhardii ( P. erhardii and P. pelopon- nesiaca ). We addressed the question of phylogenetic relations among the species of the P. taurica subgroup encountered in Greece, as they can be inferred from partial mtDNA (cyt b and 16S) sequences. Our data support the monophyly of P. taurica subgroup and suggest that P. gaigeae, P. milensis and P. melisellensis form a clade, which thereinafter connects to P. taurica . Within the previous clade, P. gaigeae is more closely related to P. milensis than to P. melisellensis . However, the specimens of P. taurica were subdivided in two different groups. The first one includes the specimens from northeastern Greece, and the other group includes the specimens from the rest of continental Greece and Ionian islands. Because the molecular clock of the cyt b and 16 rRNA genes was not rejected in our model test, it is possible to estimate times of speciation events. Based on the splitting of the island of Crete from Peloponnisos [ c. 5 million years ago (Ma)], the evolutionary rate for the cyt b is 1.55% per million years (Myr) and for the 16S rRNA is 0.46% per Myr. These results suggest that the evolutionary history of P. taurica in Greece is more complex than a single evolutionary invasion. The data analysed, stress the need for a reconsideration of the evolutionary his- tory of Greek Podarcis species and help overcome difficulties that classical taxonomy has encountered at both the species level.
Pour, F.E. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Ghorbani, B. (2016) -
Pous, P. de & Speybroeck, J. & Bogaerts, S. & Pasmans, F. & Beukema, W. (2012) -
Here we report on the combined observations of 10 years of opportunistic field work conducted during short visits to Sardinia, from 1999 to 2012. A total amount of 433 distribution records of 27 species were collected from 187 different localities covering 52 unique UTM squares. We report species presence in 157 new UTM squares and additionally reconfirm previous reported presence in 150 UTM squares. Overall, we produce a remarkable increase in the knowledge of the Sardinian herpetofauna. Notes and observations on ecology, taxonomy and conservation are provided.
Pous, P.de & Beukema, W. & Weterings, M. & Dümmer, I. & Geniez, P. (2011) -
The integration of spatial area prioritization algorithms and species distribution modelling has shown great promise in conservation planning in recent years. However, despite the fact that reptiles and amphibians have the highest threat status of all terrestrial vertebrates, these species are often under-represented in conservation planning. The Kingdom of Morocco possesses the richest and most varied herpetofauna in the Maghreb and the western Mediterranean, and is characterized by high species richness, endemism and number of European relict species. Despite the fact that Moroccan reptiles and amphibians have been the subject of numerous studies by a large number of international herpetologists since the beginning of the 20th century, few or none of these concerned their conservation. This study had three main objectives: (1) to identify those areas that harbour the highest species richness; (2) to evaluate the existing and proposed future ‘important biological and ecological sites’ (SIBES) conservation area network (CAN) with respect to their ability to protect the herpetofauna adequately; and (3) to identify priority areas into which the existing protected areas can be augmented. We used maximum-entropy species distribution modelling to run distribution models for 11 amphibian and 86 reptile species (27.6% endemics and 12.4% threatened) for which we had 2,170 single geographic records. A total of 97 models were used to create a richness map of the Moroccan her- petofauna and thereby detect both areas of high species richness and the distribution patterns of individual species. This map was subsequently used as a basis for performance evaluation of the CAN and area prioritization using the ConsNet conservation planning software initialized by ‘‘Rarity’’ first, while using representation targets of 5% and 10%. Additionally, the proposed future Moroccan CAN (SIBES) was evaluated in terms of its overlay and proximity with ConsNet solutions using visual interpretation and distance measurements in a GIS. Our results show that Moroccan herpetofauna is poorly protected under the existing and future CAN. Prioritization of areas shows that a major increase in conservation area is required to guarantee the persistence of individual herpetofauna species even with a global minimum representation target of only 10%. An increase of the existing CAN is especially needed along parts of the Atlantic coast, in the north-western Mediterranean region, on the north-eastern Moroccan coast, as well as in several areas in the Sahara, notably vast proportions of the Valle ́e du Haut and Bas Draˆa.
Powell, T.P.S. & Kruger, L. (1960) -
Powers, A.K. (2017) -
Poyarkov Jr., N.A. & Orlova, V.F. & Chirikova, M.A. (2014) -
Steppe racerunner, Eremias (Eremias) arguta, is one of the most widespread species of the Asian racerunners (genus Er-emias). Several subspecies were traditionally recognized however, morphological variability is so high that delimitation of these subspecies was always problematic. Here we present a phylogenetic hypothesis for this species based on cyto-chrome b sequences (55 samples from 35 populations, 900 bp partial sequences), infer it biogeography and the revise its subspecific structure. Six major phylogenetic lineages were revealed. The southernmost populations (E. a. uzbekistanica) from Uzbekistan form a clade together with the Issyk-Kul Lake subspecies (E. a. darevskii) based on both molecular and morphological evidence. Within more northern populations, there is a split between populations from Northern Caucasus, Europe and Western Kazakhstan (E. a. deserti) and Central and Eastern Kazakhstan populations (E. a. arguta). Transcau-casian (E. a. transcaucasica) steppe racerunners are grouped with Middle Asian populations. Finally, the easternmost samples, assigned to “E. a. potanini” are nested within the E. a. arguta clade. Populations from the Ili River Valley form a separate lineage sister to the clade joining all other E. arguta lineages and might represent a yet undescribed taxon. Spe-cies distribution in relation to historical biogeography of Middle Asia is discussed.
Poynton, J.C. & Broadley, D.G. (1978) -
The herpetofauna of southern Africa is currently receiving an increased amount of attention. The Zoological Society of Southern Africa held a symposium on herpetology and ichthyology in 1975, the proceedings of which have been published in Zoologica Africana, and no less than 17 papers dealt specifically with research carried out recently on southern African amphibians and reptiles. Our aim in this chapter, therefore, can be no more than to sketch the present state of knowledge and thinking in a rapidly changing field.
Poyntz, S.V. & Bellairs, A. d`A. (1965) -
Pozzi, A. (1966) -
Pracht, A. (1987) -
Pracht, A. (1989) -
Prasetyo, C.Y. & Iqbal, M. (2022) -
Pratt, C.W.M. (1946) -
Precigout, L. (2001) -
Pretus, J.L. & Massana, M. (2012) -
We have assessed the isotopic signatures of C, N and S from sprouts, flowers and fruits of the dominant plants of the Mel islet, of their most abundant arthropods and of the endemic lizard Podarcis lilfordi, to produce a diagram of proximities between taxa allowing some inferences on the trophic dependence of this latter species. Despite the difficulties arisen from the spatial heterogeneity of the isotopic basal values, the close proximity of the lizard to certain arthropods suggests a selective animal diet and, in general, a reduced degree of omnivory, and do not support any suspicion of a lowered trophic level from insectivorous to vegetarian style due to restrictions of island life.
Pretus, J.L. & Marquès, R. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2004) -
A 684 bp fragment from cytochrome-b allowed a coherent arrangement of several Podarcis populations from the Balearic archipelago, in a study focused on the phylogeography of the 15 Minorcan populations of Podarcis lilfordi. A reference site with Podarcis lilfordi from Mallorca clusters with the Minorcan population, although it shares a few variations with Podarcis pityusensis that are not present in the Minorcan clade. Concerning the Minorcan islets, a two steps model is drawn accounting for the observed molecular pattern. An ancient and a derived stock of populations can be discerned, seperated by a population event replacing the former populations by the modernones on the shallowest protoislets, placing it around 7000 to 5000 BP, based on bathymetric information and Holocene sea level data. Autapomorphies are present in several sites and could be indicative of seperated demes prevailing on penninsular areas of the island, as in Cavalleria, Mola de Fornells, or even on larger regions as in the southeast Menorca. Within the framework of a vicariant model, we suggest that islet`s inhabitantshave thus retained some of the history of the now extinct mainland population.
Pretus, J.L. & Obrador, B. & Marqués, R. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2001) -
Priarone, E. & Salvidio, S. & Lattes, A. (2000) -
Prick, R. (1989) -
Prick, R. (1991) -
A new survey is given concerning the Wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in the `Hoge Fronten` in Maastricht. Ecological data were collected during 7 years between 1978- 1989 by several investigators. Fig. 1 shows the variation in numbers within the study orea during the yeors of investigation (some numbers ore adjusted). The decline be- tween 1978-1980 is most probably due to restorative activities. This serious setback is counteracted only very slowly due to low fecundity (varying from 0.13 to 1.82 juveni- les per 9 per year). These low figures ore ecologically determined since reproduction success as well as the timing of the various phases in the reproduction cycle strongly depend on weather conditions (figs. 2&3). Also the restoration of old walls hod a seri- ous impact on the distribution of the species over the study area. This is illustrated in fig. 4, in which four cate- gories con be distinguished (see e.g. 1983): the lower two stacked bars refer ro resp. old and restored wolls which were (re)coloni- zed, whereos the upper two refer to resp. old and restored walls which were no longer colonized. It is obvious that the number of restored wolls which were no longer colonized increased as the restoration procee- ded. Once the restoration was finished (in 1983), however, successful (re)colonization proceeded rather quickly. This was mainly due to the appearance of crevice systems between and behind the soft chalkstone bricks a result of wheathering. Also a few conservation measures were token to maintain small ports of such systems.
Prick, R. & Kruyntjens, B. (1991) -
Prick, R. & Kruyntjens, B. (1992) -
The northernmost habitat of the Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) is to be found in the city of Maastricht (the Netherlands, 50° 51` N. lot.). In 1 989, lizards were found at the so- called `Hoge Fronten` and `Loge Fron- ten`, and ore probably divided into two populations, subdivided into 1 0 and 7 co- lonies respectively, between which no ex- change could be demonstrated. The popu- lation at the Hoge consisted of 46 adults, 10 subodults and 23 juveniles, at the Loge Fronten of 24 adults and 8 juveniles. The overrepresentation of the older age classes (Table I) may be characteristic of the Maastricht populations. Sex ratios did not differ significantly from 1.0. Fertility was very low: 1.3 and 0.9 juveniles per 9 in the Hoge and Lage Fronten respectively. The ventral sides of all oo` (except one) sho- wed on orange discoloration throughout the season. Frequencies of regenerated or recently broken toils were high in adults: 53.8% and 61 . 1%. respectively, in the Ho- ge and Loge Fronten (Table III). These figu- res, however, problably do not reflect high prédation pressures, since outotomisation was seen in only 10 (Hoge Fronten) and 1 (Loge Fronten) adults during 1989. Instead, the figures may indicate longevity. The length of the active season could only be determined for the Hoge Fronten populati- on: aCTwereactiveforabout10months, subodults for about 9 months and 9 9 for about 8 months (but probably also 9 months). This period is somewhat longer then In other years: the lizards emerged from hibernation ven/ eariy, probably be- cause of the ven/ mild winter. Couple forma- tion, fighting CTCT, courtship behaviour and copulation were observed between late March and early May; oviposition may hove occurred from the middle of May until the middle of September; the first ju- veniles were seen on August 4. This means that the reproductive period was cleorly ad- vanced compared to 1978 by STRIJBOSCH etal. (1980c). This shift, as well as the good reproductive success, is probably the result of the very worm weather in 1989, which was in fact one of the warmest years of the century in the Netherlands. In addition, we were able to confirm previ- ous findings by others of a small population of Wall Lizards living on the Belgian port of the `Sint Pietersberg` hill (co. 7 km south of Maastricht).
It is common knowledge among conservati- onists thot old wolls do not only have great historical and architectural value, but are of- ten also o f great natural importance. Many plant and animal species, including mony rare ones, find o suitable habitat on such walls. The only large predator in our country which is entirely limited to this habitat is the W a ll Lizard (Podarcis muralis (LAURENTI 1768)). Demolition and restoration o f o ld fortifications in Maastricht — the only place In the Netherlands with confirmed reports of the presence of this reptile - hove meant that many of the habitat sites have been lost in the course of the years. The restorers usu- ally hod no idea of the ecological importan- ceofsuchwalls,andeveniftheyhod- as with the restoration of the `Hoge Fronten` in 1979-83 — many biotopes were still destroyed. The cause is mainly the alarming lack of ecological insight on the part of the restorers. Shortly, some further fortifications at the Ho- ge Fronten will be restored or consolidated, within the context of a management plan drawn up after the area was designoted a protected nature reserve. This means that the restorations will have to be carried out in 0 `lizard-friendly` way. A number of suc- cessful projects in Germany hove shown that restoration and the protection of the W a ll Lizards and their habitat con go hand in hand. This article formulates guidelines for the ecological repair of old walls, using suc- cessful as well OS poorly executed restorati- ons asexamples.
Pricker, J. (1956) -
Prieto Espineira, X. & Cabana, M. (2020) -
Prieto-Ramirez, A.M. (2022) -
Habitat loss is the main threat to biodiversity. Modified landscapes resulting from habitat loss are characterized by a reduced amount and patchy distribution of habitat, and by changes in landscape composition and landscape configuration (spatial relations between landscape elements). Populations inhabiting such landscapes face reduced connectivity and gene flow, population decline, higher vulnerability to stochastic processes, and eventually, extinction. Ecological specialization is one of the main traits predicting vulnerability of species to habitat loss. It has been mainly studied at the species level, with insights at the intraspecific level being barely addressed in the habitat loss literature. The Kühnelt principle of regional stenoecy states that the range of colonizable habitats and suitable conditions is wider at the core of the distribution range of species compared to the periphery. Then, populations living at the core are habitat generalist, and those in the periphery habitat specialist. This implies that peripheral populations would have a higher sensibility to habitat loss compared to populations at the core, and also that different conservation measures are necessary to protect the species in each region. The study of occupancy patterns of habitat patches across modified landscapes is one of the most useful tools to study effects of habitat loss on the persistence of populations, and can be applied to test differential sensitivity to habitat loss among populations of the same species in different regions. On the other hand, because this approach depends on the extinction of populations to find patterns and effects, in order to identify vulnerable population before they irreversibly decline, morphological and physiological parameters representative of the status of individuals have also been proposed to be used as early warning indicators of populations’ stress. In this project I combined extensive fieldwork with advanced methods in landscape ecology and statistics to study populations of the eastern green lizard Lacerta viridis located at the core (Bulgaria) and at the northern periphery of its distribution range (Germany, Czech Republic). L. viridis is protected under the EU Habitats Directive and is threatened to extinction in Germany and Czech Republic. The objectives of this research are to test the Kühnelt principle, evaluate if predictions of specialization at the species level regarding effects of habitat loss on occupancy patterns are also met at the intraspecific level, and evaluate the suitability of morphological and physiological parameters as early indicators of populations stress. My results show that peripheral populations of L. viridis are specialist in comparison to core ones, have a smaller niche size and select microhabitats based on different environmental parameters regions (Chapter 3). Specialization predictions of vulnerability to habitat loss were also met at the intraspecific level. In the periphery, in comparison to the core, populations depended more on habitat quality, the effects of individual landscape composition predictors were stronger and overall habitat loss had an impact at smaller scales. Moreover, regions differed in the parameters of landscape structure that affected occupancy patterns the most (Chapter 4). Finally, I identified two parameters of individual status -body condition and fluctuating asymmetry- that are suitable to be used as early indicators of stress for populations of L. viridis inhabiting modified landscapes (Chapter 5). This dissertation is a contribution to the knowledge of the ecology of L. viridis and to the improvement of conservation measures to protect the species across its range. This work also broadens the knowledge about intraspecific regional differences in ecological traits of species and the application of traits at the intraspecific level to predict geographically-dependent populations’ sensibility to habitat loss.
Prieto-Ramirez, A.M. (2023) -
A better understanding of the impact of habitat loss on population density can be achieved by evaluating effects of both parameters within remnant habitat patches and parameters of the landscape surrounding those patches. The integration of predictors at the patch and landscape level is scarce in animal ecological studies, especially for reptiles. In this study, a patch–landscape approach was applied to evaluate the combined effects of within-patch habitat quality, patch geometry and landscape configuration and composition on the density of remnant populations of the eastern green lizard, Lacerta viridis, in a highly modified landscape in Bulgaria. Landscape composition variables (proportion of different land covers) were measured at different spatial scales surrounding patches. Single-scale models were built to evaluate combined effects of all predictors on density, when including all landscape composition variables at a specific spatial scale. Multi-scale models were applied to analyze combined effects when including landscape composition variables at the scale of their strongest effect (scale of effect, SoE). Results showed that the SoE of proportion of cropland and urban areas was small (50?m), while for proportion of habitat was large (1.5?km). The overall effect of habitat loss was better explained by the multi-scale model. Population density increased with patch area and decreased with patch shape irregularity and with the proportion of three land cover types surrounding patches— cropland, urban areas, and habitat. Combining patch and landscape parameters is important to identify ecological processes that occur simultaneously at different spatial levels and landscape scales, which would imply the application of multi-scale approaches for the protection of wild animal populations. Results are contrasted with what is known about occupancy patterns of the species in the same region and approaches to integrate both occupancy and density, in the field design of animal ecological studies are suggested.
Prieto-Ramirez, A.M. & Pe`er, G. & Rödder, D. & Henle, K. (2018) -
The available range of habitats and suitable abiotic conditions like temperature and radiation tends to be narrower toward the periphery of the distribution range of species. Peripheral populations of generalist species could then be more specialized and have a smaller and differentiated realized niche (habitat niche in our study) compared to populations at the core. Likewise, patterns of microhabitat selection can differ between periphery and core. In our study, we compared niche size and microhabitat selection among core (Bulgaria) and northern peripheral (Germany, Czech Republic) populations of Lacerta viridis and estimated niche differentiation among regions. We collected data on vegetation structure and abiotic parameters at the microhabitat scale in each region. In order to compare niche size among regions and estimate niche differentiation, we built multidimensional niche hypervolumes. We applied generalized linear mixed models and model averaging, accounting for spatial autocorrelation when necessary, to analyze microhabitat differences among regions and microhabitat selection in each region. Peripheral populations were more specialized, having a smaller niche than core ones, and their niche differed from that in the core (Sørensen overlap in all comparisons <0.3). Microhabitats at the periphery had lower radiation and soil compaction and less structured vegetation. Microhabitat selection at the core depended solely on abiotic parameters, while at the periphery it was defined by only vegetation structure (Czech Republic) or a combination of both, vegetation structure, and abiotic factors (Germany). Thus, peripheral populations seem to compensate for overall harsher climatic conditions by responding to different parameters of the microhabitat compared to core populations. We suggest specific conservation measures for L. virids in each studied region and point out the general implications of a higher specialization degree of peripheral populations in relation to climate change and habitat fragmentation.
Prieto-Ramirez, A.M. & Rödder, D. & Henle, K. (2022) -
Habitat loss can increase the susceptibility of individuals to parasitic infections, and hence, parasite load can serve as an early warning indicator of stress before the persistence of a population becomes threatened. In this study, we tested the effects of patch characteristics, isolation and landscape composition resulting from habitat loss on the tick load of individuals from central populations of the Eastern Green Lizard Lacerta viridis. We identified the spatial scale at which each landscape composition parameter has the strongest effect and evaluated its effects at this scale. Additionally, we tested the relationships between tick load and population density and body condition (BC) to understand possible mechanisms that determine tick loads in populations. We found that tick load was not affected by host population density. BC was not found to be affected by tick load, but BC did have a negative effect on lizards’ tick loads. The proportion of habitat and cropland in the landscape and patch size had positive effects on tick loads, whereas the proportion of urbanized areas, isolation and perimeter/area ratio had negative effects. We discuss our finding in the context of how the landscape can affect tick populations and other potential hosts. We conclude that tick load can be a suitable early warning indicator of negative effects of habitat loss, reflecting the susceptibility of lizards to infestation. We suggest that this indicator be included in monitoring programs aiming at evaluating the status of populations of L. viridis in modified landscapes, and recommend that conservation measures be focused on the protection of habitat at broader scales to compensate negative effects of cropland and urbanized areas occurring at small scales.
Prieto-Ramirez, A.M. & Röhler, L. & Cord, A.F. & Pe`er, G. & Rödder, D. & Henle, K. (2020) -
The effects of habitat loss on the distribution of populations are often linked with species specialization degree. Specialist species can be more affected by changes in landscape structure and local patch characteristics compared to generalist species. Moreover, the spatial scale at which different land covers (eg. habitat, cropland, urban areas) affect specialist species can be smaller. Specialization is usually assumed as a constant trait along the distribution range of species. However, for several taxa, there is evidence of higher specialization degree in peripheral populations compared with populations in the core. Hence, peripheral populations should have a higher sensitivity to habitat loss, and strongest effects should be found at a smaller spatial scale. To test these expectations, we implemented a patch-landscape approach at different spatial scales, and compared effects of landscape structure and patch characteristics on occupancy probability among northern peripheral, more specialized populations (Czech Republic) and core populations (Bulgaria) of the eastern green lizard Lacerta viridis. We found that landscape structure and patch characteristics affect differently the occupancy probability of Lacerta viridis in each region. Strongest effects of habitat loss were found at a spatial scale of 150m around patches in the periphery, but at a scale of 500m in the core. In the periphery occupancy probability of populations was principally affected by landscape composition, and the effect of habitat quality was stronger compared to core populations. In the core, persistence of populations was mainly explained by characteristics of the spatial configuration of habitat patches. We discuss possible ecological mechanisms behind the relationship between sensitivity to habitat loss, populations’ specialization degree and position in the distribution range, and suggest conservation measures for L. viridis.
Prieto, X. & Arzua, M. (2007) -
Procter, J.B. (1921) -
Proess, R. (2020) -
Prokoph, U. (2003) -
Auf der Mole des Winterhafens von Meißen an der Elbe lebte eine relativ individuenstarke Population von Lacerta agilis. Während der Flutkatastrophe im August 2002 wurde die Mole zum größten Teil überflutet. Der Verfasser beobachtete, wie sich die Zauneidechsen auf in der Elbe schwimmendes Treibgut retteten. Etwas 20 Tiere wurden aus ihrer misslichen Lage befreit und in einem nahegelegenen Weinberg ausgesetzt.
Prokopov, K.P. (1978) -
Prokopov, K.P. (1996) -
Prokopov, K.P. (2002) -
Prondzynska, K.M. (2023) -
Prondzynska, K.M. (2025) -
Provencal, P. (2005) -
Fieldherpetological observations in Lebanon in December 2003 and June 2004 -- During December 2003 and June 2004 the author made herpetological observations in Lebanon, mainly in Deir al-Qarnar (altitude approx. 900 m) just southeast of Beirut. In December 2003 a few Lacerta laevis were observed in Deir al Qarnar and Beirut. In June 2004 it was the most abundant reptile spe cies in Deir al-Qamar. In this urban environment it inhabited wails, open ground, vegetation and sometimes even climbing trees. One male which was readily recognised by its regenerated tail, was observed on the terrace of a house, having a territory of 100-150 m2. On 11 June two males were seen fighting. One Ophisops elegans and one Mabuya vittata were recorded in Deir al-Qamar on 11 June. Laudakia stellio was only found during the summer visit. It proved abundant in Anjar but more scattered in ruins in Ba’albek. In the morning specimens were usually dark coloured, enabling them to ab sorb additional heat (fig. 5). Hyla savignyi was seen daily in the house where the author lived in Deir al-Qamnar, however, only during the summer visit. There was a population in the garden pond and 1-4 adults were always noticed on the papyrus plants during the day (fig. 6). They were active at night. One adult Salamandra infraimmaculata at approx. 20-21 cm total length was found dead on the road at Deir al-Qamar on 6 December (fig. 7). It had probably been killed by a predator.
Psenner, H. (1931) -
Psonis, N. & Antoniou, A. & Karameta, E. & Darriba, D. & Stamatakis, A. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2021) -
Wall lizards of the genus Podarcis (Sauria, Lacertidae) are the predominant reptile group in southern Europe, including 24 recognized species. Mitochondrial DNA data have shown that, with the exception of P. muralis, the Podarcis species distributed in the Balkan peninsula form a species group that is further sub-divided into two subgroups: the one of “P. tauricus” consisting of P. tauricus, P. milensis, P. gaigeae, and P. melisellensis, and the other of “P. erhardii” comprising P. erhardii, P. levendis, P. cretensis, and P. peloponnesiacus. In an attempt to explore the Balkan Podarcis phylogenomic relationships, assess the levels of genetic structure and to re-evaluate the number of extant species, we employed phylogenomic and admixture approaches on ddRADseq (double digested Restriction site Associated DNA sequencing) genomic data. With this efficient Next Generation Sequencing approach, we were able to obtain a large number of genomic loci randomly distributed throughout the genome and use them to resolve the previously obscure phylogenetic relationships among the different Podarcis species distributed in the Balkans. The obtained phylogenomic relationships support the monophyly of both aforementioned subgroups and revealed several divergent lineages within each subgroup, stressing the need for taxonomic re-evaluation of Podarcis’ species in Balkans. The phylogenomic trees and the species delimitation analyses confirmed all recently recognized species (P. levendis, P. cretensis, and P. ionicus) and showed the presence of at least two more species, one in P. erhardii and the other in P. peloponnesiacus.
Psonis, N. & Antoniou, A. & Karameta, E. & Leaché, A.D. & Kotsakiozi, P. & Darriba, D. & Kozlov, A. & Stamatakis, A. & Poursanidis, D. & Kukushkin, O. & Jablonski, D. & Crnobrnja–Isailović, J. & Gherghel, I. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2018) -
The Balkan Peninsula constitutes a biodiversity hotspot with high levels of species richness and endemism. The complex geological history of the Balkans in conjunction with the climate evolution are hypothesized as the main drivers generating this biodiversity. We investigated the phylogeography, historical demography, and popula- tion structure of closely related wall-lizard species from the Balkan Peninsula and southeastern Europe to better understand diversification processes of species with limited dispersal ability, from Late Miocene to the Holocene. We used several analytical methods integrating genome-wide SNPs (ddRADseq), microsatellites, mitochondrial and nuclear DNA data, as well as species distribution modelling. Phylogenomic analysis resulted in a completely resolved species level phylogeny, population level analyses confirmed the existence of at least two cryptic evolutionary lineages and extensive within species genetic structuring. Divergence time estimations indicated that the Messinian Salinity Crisis played a key role in shaping patterns of species divergence, whereas in- traspecific genetic structuring was mainly driven by Pliocene tectonic events and Quaternary climatic oscillations. The present work highlights the effectiveness of utilizing multiple methods and data types coupled with extensive geographic sampling to uncover the evolutionary processes that shaped the species over space and time.
Psonis, N. & Antoniou, A. & Kukushkin, O. & Jablonski, D. & Petrov, B. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Sotiropoulos, K. & Gherghel, I. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2017) -
The monophyletic species subgroup of Podarcis tauricus is distributed in the western and southern parts of the Balkans, and includes four species with unresolved and unstudied inter- and intra-specific phylogenetic relationships. Using sequence data from two mitochondrial and three nuclear genes and applying several phylogenetic methods and species delimitation approaches to an extensive dataset, we have reconstructed the phylogeny of the Podarcis wall lizards in the Balkans, and re-investigated the taxonomic status of the P. tauricus species subgroup. Multilocus analyses revealed that the aforementioned subgroup consists of five major clades, with P. melisellensis as its most basal taxon. Monophyly of P. tauricus sensu stricto is not supported, with one of the subspecies (P. t. ionicus) displaying great genetic diversity (hidden diversity or cryptic species). It comprises five, geographically distinct, subclades with genetic distances on the species level. Species delimitation approaches revealed nine species within the P. tauricus species subgroup (P. melisellensis, P. gaigeae, P. milensis, and six in the P. tauricus complex), underlining the necessity of taxonomic re-evaluation. We thus synonymize some previously recognized subspecies in this subgroup, elevate P. t. tauricus and P. g. gaigeae to the species level and suggest a distinct Albanian-Greek clade, provisionally named as the P. ionicus species complex. The latter clade comprises five unconfirmed candidate species that call for comprehensive studies in the future.
Psonis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Poursanidis, D. & Poulakakis, N. (2016) -
The Acanthodactylus boskianus species group includes three species (A. boskianus, A. nilsoni, and A. schreiberi) of unclear phylogeny and phylogeographic history. By sequencing fragments of two mtDNA genes and performing phylogenetic, demographic, and chronophylogenetic analyses, we aimed at identifying their phylogenetic relationships while unravelling their biogeographic history. The analyses indicated that A. boskianus is a species complex, while A. s. schreiberi and A. s. ataturi show, both, low intraspecific genetic diversity. From a biogeographic point of view, the ancestor of A. s. schreiberi colonized Cyprus from the Middle East through overseas dispersal during the Pleistocene, whereas A. s. ataturi is considered to be a relict of a previously wider distribution.
Pudnte Espasandin, I. (2016) -
Samplings carried out in the municipality of A Coruña, one of the smaller surface area of Galicia, showed the presence of 8 species of amphibians and 9 species of reptiles. Eight of them (4 amphibians and 4 reptiles) were relatively frequent and very sparse the rest. Some of these species can survive even in disturbed areas. However, alterations of the natural environment, such as eucalyptus plantations, abandonment of farmland and the presence of residues, can seriously affect the survival of these species.
Puerta, M. & Abelenda, M. & Salvador, A. & Martin, J. & López, P. & Veiga, P. (1996) -
This study deals with a general description of haematology and plasma chemistry of free-living males of the lacertid lizards Psammodromus algirus subjected to an experiment of testosterone supplementation. In control lizards the number of red blood cells — 1700000 cells/µl — was smaller than those published for birds and mammals. Haematocrit and haemoglobin content were 33% and 8.4 g/dl. However, they were greater than those reported for other lizards. Testosterone treatment reduced the number of red blood cells and haemoglobin content but did not affect red cell indexes. White blood cell number was 27 000 cells/µl, a value higher than those previously published for other lizards. Lymphocytes, heterophils and azurophils counts were 22300, 3700 and 2000 cells/µl. Monocytes, eosinophils and basophils showed proportions lower than 500 cell/µl. Testosterone treatment reduced the total number of leucocytes (17000 cells/µl) and the number of lymphocytes (10000 cell/µl). Glucose plasma level was in the range published for birds — 250 mg/dl — in both control and treated lizards. Plasma proteins (3.6 g/dl), uric acid and urea (4.5 and 5.4 mg/dl, respectively) were similar to previously published values in lizards. Testosterone treatment increased only protein levels (8.2 g/dl).
Pueyo, S. & He, F. & Zillio, T. (2007) -
Why does the neutral theory, which is based on unrealistic assumptions, predict diversity patterns so accurately? Answering questions like this requires a radical change in the way we tackle them. The large number of degrees of freedom of ecosystems pose a fundamental obstacle to mechanistic modelling. However, there are tools of statistical physics, such as the maximum entropy formalism (MaxEnt), that allow transcending particular models to simultaneously work with immense families of models with different rules and parameters, sharing only well-established features. We applied MaxEnt allowing species to be ecologically idiosyncratic, instead of constraining them to be equivalent as the neutral theory does. The answer we found is that neutral models are just a subset of the majority of plausible models that lead to the same patterns. Small variations in these patterns naturally lead to the main classical species abundance distributions, which are thus unified in a single framework.
Puky, M. & Ádám, H. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Heulin, B. & Odierna, G. (2004) -
The distribution, reproductive mode, karyological structure and mtDNA characteristics of Hungarian Zootoca vivipara populations were studied in 2000–2002. Their presence was proved in all regions, where they had previously been known, but several populations disappeared. Populations with altogether four different genotypes were found in the country. The genetic structure of the isolated populations in the middle of the Great Hungarian Plain had never been recorded elsewhere. They are viviparous, both sexes have 36 chromosomes (2n = 36) like the oviparous carniolica subspecies, but their mtDNA resembles that of the Eastern viviparous group. Besides its importance in the development of the hypothesis on viviparity, it also has an international conservation importance as legal and practical measures are to be taken to safeguard the long-term survival of these unique, geographically isolated populations with low individual numbers and very limited distribution.
Összefoglaló: Az elevenszülő gyík magyarországi elterjedésének, szaporodásmódjának, ro- konsági viszonyainak és természetvédelmi helyzetének vizsgálata 2000-ben kezdődött. A faj hazai előfordulását az 1. ábra mutatja. A populációk egyedsűrűsége alacsony, egyes korábban ismert populációi kipusztultak. A román határ közelében a keleti, sachalensis, a Tiszától északra a nyugati, vivipara alfaj él. A Hanságban egy korábban csak Ausztriából leírt geneti- kai szerkezetű klád él. Az ócsai populáció jellegzetességei valamennyi korábban ismert állo- mánytól különböznek, mert elevenszülő, kromoszómaszám és szerkezet alapján a tojásrakó carniolica, mtDNS-ük szerkezete alapján viszont az elevenszülő sachalensis alfajhoz hasonló egyedek alkotják. Mindennek az elevenszülés kialakulásával kapcsolatos elméletek fejlődése mellett természetvédelmi szempontból is nagy jelentősége van. A genetikai sokféleség meg- őrzése miatt az elevenszülő gyík ócsai állományának fokozott hazai védelme jogszabályi és gyakorlati szinten egyaránt indokolt, nemzetközileg is fontos feladat.
Puky, M. & Faggyas, S.Z. & Mester, B. & Biró, P. & Ács, É. (2014) -
An article concerned with tail’s morphological anomaly that was ounded between L. agilis from different regions of Hungary. No anomalies in Z. Vivipara sampled were found.
Puky, M. & Tóth, V. & Lakatos, F. & Tóth, M. & Mester, B. & Biró, P. & Ács, E. & Velekei, B. (2012) -
Pupins, M. & Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Arribas, O. & Ceirans, A. & Kirjusina, M. (2023) -
Expanding the trade of tropical fruits in an increasingly globalized world increases the likelihood of unintentional importation of viable herpetofauna and their parasites from other countries and even continents, since the conditions for growing and transportation of fruits (humidity, temperature) can often be tolerated by exotic amphibians and reptiles. Here we describe our findings of two reptiles, Podarcis siculus campestris and P. ionicus (formerly P. tauricus ionicus), and an amphibian, Scinax ruber, in boxes of tropical fruits in Daugavpils city, Latvia, European Union. In our parasitological survey of S. ruber, we found two groups of endoparasites: nematoda (Physaloptera sp.) and trematoda (Travtrema aff. stenocotyle mtc.). In P. ionicus intestine we found acanthocephalan Centrorhynchus sp. larvae. All these parasites were detected in Latvia for the first time. The estimated minimal direct distance of the trans-oceanic relocation of S. ruber and its parasites from its natural distribution centre in Suriname to its finding place in Latvia exceeds 10 600 km
Purger, J.J. & Bocz, R. (2023) -
For estimation of predation plasticine models of prey animals are often used, because the soft material preserves imprints left by predators. We assumed that melanic common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) disappear by selective predation faster than cryptic individuals and habitat features have important role in this process. We studied the survival probabilities of cryptic and melanic colored plasticine common wall lizard models in habitats with different background coloration on selected places near the city of Pécs (south Hungary), where melanic common wall lizards had been observed earlier. Contrary to our expectations the daily survival rates of melanic plasticine common wall lizards were somewhat higher in all three locations (sandstone quarry, stone wall, coal pit) than those of the cryptic ones, but these differences were not significant. Predators were mostly mammals, which left more marks on plasticine models than birds, but we could not show a preference of the body parts of prey. We concluded that rare occurrence of melanic common wall lizards in habitats near the city of Pécs is not due to predation pressure.
Purger, J.J. & Bocz, R. & Mérö, T.O. (2022) -
Purger, J.J. & Lanszki, Z. & Szép, D. & Bocz, R. (2017) -
The potential influence of predators on lacertid lizards has been studied by using models made of plasticine which shows the attack marks of predators and as such allows their identification and estimation of predation pressure. The general aim was to study predation on plasticine models of lizards and to improve methods, since the results depend on the number of plasticine models used, their spatial pattern and the duration of experiments. We estimated the density of the common wall lizard Podarcis muralis population on stone walls of a vineyard in the city of Pécs (Hungary) in August 2015 in order to imitate the real density in our experiment with plasticine models. The density of common wall lizards was 8.2 ind. /100 m2 and accordingly we placed 25 scentless plasticine lizards on the stone walls on the first transect with 10 m distance between them, which imitates the real pattern. In the second transect 25 lizard models were placed more sparsely, the distance between them being 20 m. During four weeks the predation rate was 24% in densely spaced plasticine lizards and 40% in sparsely spaced plasticine lizards, but the difference was not significant. The daily survival rate of densely spaced lizards was 0.99 (=99.1%) and that of sparsely spaced lizard models was 0.98 (=98.25%), but this difference was not significant either. On the basis of marks left on plasticine lizards, mammal predators (e.g. beech marten) dominated, while the impact of bird predators was smaller than expected. Predators attacked the head of plasticine lizards more frequently than their trunk, tail or limbs, but a significant preference of body parts was not detected. From our experience it is important to study the distribution and density of real animals, to imitate their real pattern, instead of an arbitrarily designed experiment with models. The typical scent of plasticine also could influence the results, which can be avoided by using scentless plasticine models coated with liquid rubber. We suggest the calculation of daily survival rates in order to produce results that allow the comparison of different studies.
Püschel, F. (1962) -
Puschnig, R. (1934) -
Puschnig, R. (1935) -
Putman, B.J. & Pauly, G.B. & Blumstein, D.T. (2020) -
Biological invasions threaten biodiversity worldwide, and therefore, understanding the traits of successful invaders could mitigate their spread. Many commonly invasive species do well in disturbed habitats, such as urban environments, and their abilities to effectively respond to disturbances could contribute to their invasiveness. Yet, there are noninvasive species that also do well in disturbed habitats. The question remains whether urban invaders behave differently in urban environments than noninvaders, which could suggest an “urban-exploiting” phenotype. In Southern California, the co-occurrence of invasive Italian wall lizards Podarcis siculus, brown anoles Anolis sagrei, and green anoles A. carolinensis, and native western fence lizards Sceloporus occidentalis offers an opportunity to test whether invasives exhibit consistent differences in risk-taking within human-altered habitats compared with a native species. We predicted that invasive lizards would exhibit more bold behavior by having shorter flight-initiation distances (FIDs) and by being found farther from a refuge (behaviors that would presumably maximize foraging in low-risk environments). Invasive populations had similar or longer FIDs, but were consistently found at distances closer to a refuge. Collectively, invasive lizards in urban habitats were not bolder than a native species. Reliance on nearby refuges might help species successfully invade urban habitats, and if a general pattern, may pose an added challenge in detecting or eliminating them.
Putti, R. & Maglio, M. & Della Rossa, A. & Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. (1993) -
Putti, R. & Varano, L. & Cavagnuolo, A. & Laforgia, V. (1991) -
The endocrine pancreas of Podarcis s. sicula Raf. was investigated at light and electron microscopic levels using immunocytochemical methods. It was constituted by endocrine islets, which were concentrated more in the splenic than in the duodenal region, and never formed large clusters. At the light and electron microscope, with the peroxidase-antiperoxidase reaction (PAP) and the colloidal gold technique, four cell types were identified: glucagon-positive A-cells, insulin-positive B-cells, somatostatin-positive D-cells and pancreatic polypeptide-positive F- or PP-cells. F- or PP-cells showed a different regional distribution, being absent or very rare in the splenic lobe of the pancreas and numerous in the duodenal lobe, where they were seldom found in the islets, but were scattered in the exocrine parenchyma. The functional meaning of F-cells is discussed. The E.M. observations were carried out at the CIRUB (Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca sulle Ultrastrutture Biologiche) of the University of Naples.
Putti, R. & Varricchio, E. & GAY, F. & Coccia, E. & Paolucci, M. (2009) -
In this study we assessed the effect of leptin treatment on testicular morphology, spermatogenesis, Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor (PPAR) a, 17b-hydroxysteroide dehydrogenase, 17b-estradiol and testosterone levels in the testis and blood of the lizard Podarcis sicula at the beginning of summer regression before entering the refractory period, when lizards no longer respond to hormonal and environmental stimuli. Lizards treated with five injections of leptin showed seminiferous tubules with germinal cells at all stages and wider lumina with respect to the controls. After 10 injections, the diameter of the lumina increased compared to the controls and 5 injection-group. After 10 injections plus 20 days before the sacrifice, the seminiferous tubules with open lumina and germinal cells were less abundant than in the 5 and 10 injection-groups. In all groups, the epididymis epithelium was higher than in the controls, with mitosis and binucleated cells. In both the control and treated animals secondary spermatocytes and spermatids were immunoreactive to leptin receptor and PPARa. In treated animals the interstitial cells and peritubular fibrocytes were also leptin receptor immunoreactive, while PPARa immunoreactivity translocated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. 17b-HSD immunoreactivity was present in the spermatids and interstitial cells of control lizards and in secondary spermatocytes and spermatids of treated lizards. Leptin treatment had no statistically significant effect on testicular and circulating 17b-estradiol and testosterone levels. These observations indicate that leptin brings about a delay in testis summer regression in Podarcis sicula, playing a regulatory role in reproduction in this species as already hypothesized for mammals.
Qi-Lei, H., Hong-Xia, L., Xiang, J. (2006) -
We used the Mongolian racerunner Eremias argus as a model animal to evaluate the effects of constant versus fluctuating incubation temperatures on hatching success and hatchling phenotypes. Eggs were incubated under four constant [24, 27, 30 and 33 (±0.3) °C] and one fluctuating temperature regimes. Hatching success did not differ among treatments, and incubation temperature did not affect the sexual phenotype of hatchlings. Incubation length decreased exponentially as incubation temperature increased, and eggs incubated at fluctuating temperatures took a longer time to complete development than did those incubated at constant temperatures with the same mean. Of the hatchling phenotypes examined, body dry mass, carcass dry mass, residual yolk dry mass and locomotor performance of hatchlings were more likely to be affected by incubation temperature. Overall, locomotor performance was best in the low temperature treatments (24 °C and 27 °C) and worst in the high temperature treatment (33 °C), with the moderate temperature treatments (30 °C and fluctuating temperatures) in between. Our data show that: (1) daily exposure of eggs to extreme temperatures that are potentially lethal to embryos for brief periods does not have detectable adverse effects on hatching success and morphological phenotypes in E. argus; and (2) thermal fluctuations exert no positive effects on locomotor performance of hatchlings but influence incubation length differently than constant temperatures with the same mean [Acta Zoologica Sinica 52(6):1049 – 1057, 2006].
Qiang, C. (1995) -
The resting metabolic rates (RMR) of two species of lizards Eremias argus and Phrynocephalus frontalis were measured in April and May 1990. The results showed a positive correlation between RMR and temperature and an inversely exponential relationship of RMR with body weight. Laboratory acclimation indicated that the rates of bodyweight losting in both species of lizard were more sensitive to temperature in the range of 10~15℃ and 20~25℃. The circadian ryhthm of RMR of both species were also noted. The difference of RMR between two species was not significant.
Qin, P.S. & Tao, C.R. & Yin, S. & Li, H.M. & Zeng, D.L. & Qin, X.M. (2014) -
The complete mitochondrial genome sequence of Lacerta agilis was determined in the present paper. The genome was 17,090 bp in length and contained 13 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes and 1 control region (CR). The gene composition and order of which was similar to most other Squamate reptiles. The overall base composition of the genome in descending order was 31.29% A, 26. 39% C, 29.01% T and 13.29% G, with a slight AT bias of 60.30%. CR is located between the tRNA-Pro and tRNA-Phe genes and is 1688 bp in length, some tandem repeat sequences and conserved elements (CSB1-3) were found in the control region.
Qin, P.S. & Zeng, D.L. & Hou, L.X. & Yang, X.W. & Qin, X.M. (2015) -
The complete sequence mitochondrial genome of Takydromus sexlineatus was determined using long PCR and conserved primers walking approaches. The genome was 18,943 bp in length and contained 13 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes and 1 control region (CR). The gene composition and order of T. sexlineatus were similar to most other squamate reptiles. All protein-coding genes begin with ATG as initiation codon except COI using GTG. Seven genes (ATP8. ND4L. ND5. Cytb. ND1. COI and ND6) ended with TAA, TAG, AGGA and AGA stop codon, the remaining 6 genes had incomplete stop codons T/TA. The overall base composition of the genome in descending order was 31.48% A, 24.67% C, 30.79% T and 13.05% G, with a slight A + T bias of 62.27%. CR is located between the tRNA-Pro and tRNA-Phe genes and is 3562 bp in length, some tandem repeat sequences, conserved elements (CSB1-3) and termination associated sequences (TAS1-3) were found in the control region.
Qin, S.-M. & Zhao, W.-G. (2009) -
The karyotypes of Takydromus amurensis and T. wolteri from Heilongjiang Province were examined using medulla cells and the colchicine-hypotonic air-dry technique. The results showed that the number of diploid chromosomes in the two species was 38 and were composed of 18 pairs of euchromosomes and a pair of sex chromosome, including 17 pairs of telocentric chromosomes and a pair of spot chromosomes. The sex chromosome was of the type ZW. According to karyotypic characteristics, they are all primitive species within Lacertiformes.
Quaile, A. & Noble, A. (2000) -
Quattrini, D. (1952) -
Quattrini, D. (1953) -
Quattrini, D. (1954) -
Quayle, A. (1983) -
Quirantes, R.D. & Garcia, R. & Álvarez, S. (2001) -
Qumsiyeh, M. (2016) -
A survey on the vertebrates of Wadi Al-Quff Protected Area (WAQPA) was conducted as part of a management plan preparation. Nineteen mammal species were recorded and all but one (Marbled Polecat, Vormela peregusna listed as vulnerable species) are of “least concern” by the IUCN. The pipistelle bat Pipistrellus pipistrellus was a notable finding as its most southern range of distribution so far in Palestine. Three amphibians were recorded. Among 21 reptile species recorded, three species of geckos were noted including Kotschy`s Gecko, Mediodactylys (Cyrtodactylus) kotschyi, representing the southern-most record for this species. Other reptiles recorded include the starred agama Stellagama stellio (most common reptile in WAQPA), seven species of lizards, and seven species of snakes. The Spur-thighed Tortoise (Tesudo graeca) and Gunther’s Skink (Chalcides guntheri) are considered vulnerable species according to the IUCN Red List.
Ra, N.-Y. & Lee, J.-K. & Lee, J.-H. & Kim, J.-K. & Kim, D.-I. & Kim, B.-N. & Kim, I.-H. & Park, D. (2011) -
Although lizards are important hosts for hard ticks (Ixodidae), very few studies have been conducted in South Korea. To determine whether or not hard ticks can infest lizards endemic to South Korea, we examined 77 lizards of four species (Eremias argus, Sincella vandenburghi, Takydromus amurensis, and Takydromus wolteri) that were collected at 22 different sites between April and October 2010. We confirmed that all four lizard species can be infested by Ixodes nipponensis larvae or nymphs. Of the 62 E. argus examined, we found an average of 12.5 larvae on two lizards and an average of one nymph on one lizard. We found seven nymphs on one S. vandenburghi. We found an average of two nymphs on two of the five T. amurensis and an average of one nymph on four of the nine T. wolteri. Ixodes nipponensis larvae and nymphs were found most frequently on the foreleg axillae (87.8%), followed by the forelegs (7.3%), the eyelids (2.4%), and the ears (2.4%) of the lizards. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of I. nipponensis infestations of lizards endemic to South Korea.
Rabaud, E. (1926) -
Rach, B. (2000) -
Radde, G. (1899) -
Radocaj, M. & Jelic, D. & Karaica, D. & Kapelj, S. (2011) -
Today, lizards of the genus Podarcis are one of the most important representatives of Mediterranean herpetofauna, primarily because of their great variability in islands. We studied a population of Podarcis siculus (REPTILIA: LACERTIDAE) from Krk Island (Northern Adriatic) and compared the results to other lacertid species of the Mediterranean Basin. The study was carried out using live lizards that were maintained in terrariums under natural conditions of light and temperature, where they produced egg clutches which were incubated until hatching. The eggs were incubated for average of 31 days and hatching took place from late July to mid of August. The average adult female body size (SVL) was 61,88 mm. Out of 10 females, 9 produced egg clutches with average of 5.3 and the maximum of 7 eggs. The knowledge of reproductive potentials and life traits of this species is significant for further monitoring plans of this invasive species in these areas.
Radovanović, M. (1937) -
Radovanović, M. (1941) -
Radovanović, M. (1951) -
Radovanović, M. (1953) -
Radovanović, M. (1954) -
Radovanović, M. (1955) -
Radovanović, M. (1956) -
Radovanovic, M. (1956) -
Radovanović, M. (1958) -
Radovanovic, M. (1959) -
Radovanovic, M. (1960) -
Radovanović, M. (1960) -
Radovanovic, M. (1964) -
Radovanović, M. (1970) -
Rafinesque-Schmaltz, C.S. (1810) -
Ragione, F. della & Comitato, R. & Angelini, F. & D`Esposito, M. & Cardone, A. (2005) -
hypothalamus, and also in peripheral tissues. Reproduction is a peripheral activity that is strongly influenced by a circadian clock in many organisms. Most mammals that exhibit a seasonal cycle are able to decode the daily changes in light across the year and to translate these in hormonal signals that regulate reproductive cycles. Expression of many clock genes has been revealed in mouse testis, although transcription of these genes seems to be constitutive in 24 h, suggesting that these genes may play in the testis a different role with regard to the central clockwork function. The seasonal breeding lizard Podarcis sicula represents an attractive model for studying some developmental and differentiation phenomena, such as gonadal maturation, since in the adult male the testis shows a spring full activity and a complete summer regression. Experimental data seem to suggest that in lizard the environmental factors, as photoperiod and temperature, affect the endogenous elements, although the interaction mechanisms are unknown. It is known that temperature signals have a direct influence on clock processes such as transcription, translation, protein phosphorylation and degradation. In addition, most data show that the expression of circadian clock genes, such as period2, is affected by length of photoperiod. In this way, the core clockwork may also decode seasonal information. Here we report the cloning, sequencing and bioinformatic analysis of period2 gene, isolated from the testis of lizard P. sicula, and its expression both in the testis and in other tissues during the different phases of the seasonal cycle. RT-PCR assays enlighten the presence of transcript in testis, brain, heart, liver and kidney in all the phases analysed. Moreover, real time quantitative PCR assays detect a peak of per2 testicular expression during gonadal regression. Our preliminary results cannot clearly demonstrate the involvement of per2 gene in seasonal reproductive cycle of male lizard P. sicula, but ist presence in the testis may suggest a role of this gene during spermatogenesis. Besides, our work can provide numerous starting points to clarify the role of per2 during seasonal reproductive cycle.
Rahbar, A. & Karami, M. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Mohammadi, A. (2011) -
Eremias montanus belonging to the family Lacertidae and is an endemic lizard of Iran. Endemic species because only certain geographical areas there are many values are for academic studies. In this study to find these regions to make a lot of Hamedan province were studied, but observed only in Alvand Mountain in 18 km Hamedan province. The research was performed from early April until late November in 2009; while this species spend hibernation and samples were collected by line transect method. In total 13 samples were collected the 10 specimens were mature and 3 specimens were immature and morphological, ecological and ethological studies were conducted on them. In this study, for the first time this species was detected in Hamedan province, whereas reported only in previous studies of Siah dareh Village in Kermanshah province.
Rahemo, Z.I.F. & Mohamad, S.I. (2014) -
Arid region in Iraq are extensive, as such lizards have been adapted to different substrates. Certain Iraqi lizards are adopted for life in or on eolian sand dunes, or at least on sandy soils and more or less restricted to such zones. Among the abundant species are species of Acanthodactylus, Scincus, Phrynocephaluss. Members of genus Scincus and to lesser extent species of Phrynocephalus, are adapted both for burrowing in soft sand and for sand running. Furthermore, the species of Laudakia, such as L. nupta appear to be restricted to areas such as limestone outcrops and rocky cliff faces where both basking surfaces and deep crevices even in mountains of Kurdistan for retreat are provided. Species of Trapelus, such as T. agilis, T. persicus, T. ruderatus occur on plains, valleys, and alluvial fans, on sandy, loam, clay, and gravel soils. These lizards are usually found in the vicinity of small rock piles, such as those erected by local inhabitants to mark the boundaries of grain fields in a dried region of Mosul city (near Syrian boundies). They retreat into these piles for shelter. Species of Phrynocephalus show distinct preference for particular soil types some species prefer open clay and gravel plains, while others usually found on sandy plains and steppes. Species which are rock-inhibiting able to negotiate the rough vertical surfaces of rock outcrops and montane habitats. These include species of Laudakia and several species of Lacerta. These lizards utilize the many angles and shadows of this environment for temperature regulation by asking and make use of the many crevices for retreat from predators and temperature extremes. The gecko, Cyrtopodion usually are found on rocky slopes and cliff faces, in crevices and caverns, and in about human habitation particularly C. scrabum. Moreover, Asaccus elisae is found in caverns in gypsum deposits and limestone. Species of Uromastix are confined in their local distribution to well-drained alluvial soils wherein they are able to excavate their burrows, for instance U. lorcatus prefers silty-clay soils. As regards, Varanus spp. inhabiting the most continuously distributed substrate. From above biodiversity of lizard habitat. It can be conclude that the evolution of lizards may be correlated with this specific affinity for substrate type.
Rahimi, E. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Karamiani, R. (2020) -
The Arsanjan county has various habitat types (grasslands, mountains, rocky and shrubbery areas) that is located northeast of Fars Province, Iran. The herpetofauna of Arsanjan county is unclear and there is no biosystematic study so far. The aim of the present study is to investigate the lizard’s fauna of Arsanjan. The study area is located between the coordinates as follow: 29°38` _ 30°00` N and 53°07` _ 53°43` E. All the specimens were collected in different regions of Arsanjan county during this survey from 2018 to 2020. Specimens were identified according to the valuable resources. The collected specimens represented ten species, nine genera and four families including: Large scaled rock agama (Laudakia nupta), Brilliant ground agama (Trapelus agilis) and Horny scaled agama (Trapelus ruderatus) (Agamidae); Keeled rock gecko (Cytopodion scabrum) (Gekkonidae); Snake-eyed Lizard (Ophisops elegans), Persian long tailed lizard (Mesalina watsonana), Persian racerunner (Eremias persica) and Zagrosian lizard (Timon princeps) (Lacertidae); Schneider Skink (Eumeces schneiderii) and southern grass skink (Heremites septemtaeniatus) (Scincidae). Among the identified species Timon princeps is a new record from the area.
Rahmel, U. (1988) -
Rahmel, U. (1989) -
Rahmel, U. (1991) -
Lacerta agilis agilis is described from three new localities in northern ltaly. Two of them, the western- and also the eastern locality are in connection with weil known populations from France respectively Austria and Jugoslavia. The third record is from the central part of the Alps near Bozen. Only from Brenner- or Reschenpass a colonization of this area is possible.
Rahmel, U. (1993) -
Asymmetrie scalation was examined in 3 340 Lacerta agilis (LrNNAEUS, 1758) from Euro- pe (Northern, western Central, eastern Central, and South-East). Test of the data according to regions and age groups yielded no correlation, thus rejecting above hypothesis.
Rahmel, U. (1997) -
Rahmel, U. & Meyer, S. (1987) -
In June 1986 we caught and released nearly 100 sand lizard (Lacerta agilisargus) of apopulation living in a sand pitch in Lower Austria. Metric characters, age structure, population density, and ectoparasites are recorded and discussed.
Rahmel, U. & Meyer, S. (1988) -
Rahmel, U. & Rykena, S. (1990) -
Rahmel, U. & Rykena, S. (1996) -
Pholidosis is a complex sei of characters that can be used for interspecific as well as infraspecific subdivisions of reptiles. Eggs of field and laboratory populations of Lacerta agilis agilis and L. a. grusinica were incubated at different temperatures to lest the influence of incubation temperature on three head scale characters (submaxillaries, sublabials, temporals) and three body scale characters (dorsals, subdigital lamellae, femoral pores). Field populations of L. a. agilis and L. a. grusinica differ in all characters but sublabials. Characters within populations of each subspecies developed differently following identical incubation temperatures. Only the number of submaxillaries and the number of femorals are sensitive to incubation temperature but only in one subspecies and not in the other one. lt is hypothesized that these results reflect underlying genetic differences between subspecies. lt is evident that the modifying influence of incubation temperature in climatically different regions will be important for the understanding of characters of systematic importance.
Rai, A. & Mothey, R. & Chettri, B. (2023) -
Sexual dimorphism is widespread among lizards and may cause variation in morphology or color between sexes. These variations are determined by ecological, environmental, and genetic factors. In this study, we examined sexual dimorphism in Sikkim Grass Lizards (Takydromus sikkimensis) of Sikkim-Darjeeling Himalaya, India. We investigated whether differences exist in morphology and colors between sexes, and we also explored the breeding biology of this lizard in both captivity and under natural conditions. We observed female-biased sexual dimorphism in size and shape with females having greater snout vent length (SVL), forelimb length (FLL), hindlimb length (HLL), length of fourth finger (LFF), and snout to arm length (SAL) than males. Males had larger head length (HL) and head width (HW) compared to females. Our findings showed female-biased sexual dimorphism to fecundity selection, where larger females have higher fecundity than smaller females. Additionally, male-biased sexual dichromatism was observed during the breeding season. The primary habitat of Sikkim Grass Lizard in the study region is agro-ecosystems mostly below 1,000 m elevation. These ecosystems are undergoing rapid changes due to developmental projects, which could jeopardize the long-term survival of this species. Therefore, conservation efforts are needed and should focus on preserving a mosaic of agro-ecosystems, especially in the lower middle hills in Sikkim-Darjeeling region of the Eastern Himalaya.
Raia, P. & Ferranti, L. & Castiglione, S. & Melchionna, M. & Saggese, F. & Raimondi, R. & Serio, C. & Carotenuto, F. & Passaro, GF. & Antoniolo, F. (2017) -
Rates of biological evolution on islands are often presumed to exceed rates on the mainland. We tested this postulation by computing the evolutionary rate of head shape in Italian wall lizard Podarcis siculus, occurring on four islands off the coast of Southern Italy. We calculated the evolutionary rate using a phylogenetic tree whose node ages were derived from Lambeck et al. predicted ages of geographic isolation of the islands. Such ages are based on a relative sea-level change model for the late Pleistocene–Holocene. Through a likelihood optimization procedure, our method allows computing, besides the evolutionary rate, biological estimates of the ages of insular populations, with this indirectly testing Lambeck et al.’s model estimates. We found that the rate of evolution in Podarcis head shapes on islands is not statistically different from the mainland rate, although insular lizards have distinctive head shapes. Overall, the insular phenotype took 1–4000 years to arise (differing among islands). The estimated ages of insular populations are lower than Lambeck et al.’s estimates and fall in the 5- to 6-ka interval.
Raia, P. & Guarino, F.M. & Turano, M. & Polese, G. & Rippa, D. & Carotenuto, F. & Monti, D.M. & Cardi, M. & Fulgione, D. (2010) -
Background: Many small vertebrates on islands grow larger, mature later, lay smaller clutches/litters, and are less sexually dimorphic and aggressive than their mainland relatives. This set of observations is referred to as the ‘Island Syndrome’. The syndrome is linked to high population density on islands. We predicted that when population density is low and/or fluctuating insular vertebrates may evolve correlated trait shifts running opposite to the Island Syndrome, which we collectively refer to as the ‘reversed island syndrome’ (RIS) hypothesis. On the proximate level, we hypothesized that RIS is caused by increased activity levels in melanocortin receptors. Melanocortins are postranslational products of the proopiomelanocortin gene, which controls pleiotropically pigmentation, aggressiveness, sexual activity, and food intake in vertebrates. Results: We tested the RIS hypothesis performing a number of behavioral, genetic, and ontogenetic tests on a blue colored insular variant of the Italian Wall lizard Podarcis sicula, living on a small island off the Southern Italian coast. The population density of this blue-colored variant was generally low and highly fluctuating from one year to the next. In keeping with our predictions, insular lizards were more aggressive and sexually dimorphic than their mainland relatives. Insular males had wide, peramorphic heads. The growth rate of insular females was slower than growth rates of mainland individuals of both sexes, and of insular males. Consequently, size and shape dimorphism are higher on the Island. As predicted, melanocortin receptors were much more active in individuals of the insular population. Insular lizards have a higher food intake rate than mainland individuals, which is consistent with the increased activity of melanocortin receptors. This may be adaptive in an unpredictable environment such as Licosa Island. Insular lizards of both sexes spent less time basking than their mainland relatives. We suspect this is a by-product (spandrel) of the positive selection for increased activity of melanocortins receptors. Conclusions: We contend that when population density is either low or fluctuating annually as a result of environmental unpredictability, it may be advantageous to individuals to behave more aggressively, to raise their rate of food intake, and allocate more energy into reproduction.
Rais, M. & Ahmed, J. & Naveed, A. & Batool, A. & Shahzad, A. & Bibi, R. & Sajjad, A. (2021) -
This study was conducted to see whether herpetofaunal assemblage differed amongst hiking trails, undisturbed forest and urban areas within the Margalla Hills National Park, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan. Circular plot area-constrained searches (45 plots in each habitat, each plot with an area of 25 m2) were used from March 2018 to July 2019. We recorded seven amphibian species, nine lizard species and six snake species. The species richness of amphibians and lizards was the same in the studied strata, while the detection and encounter rate of snakes was lower in the undisturbed forest and urban areas. The encounter rate of amphibians differed significantly between urban areas and hiking trails/undisturbed forest. The encounter rate and population density of lizards differed significantly between undisturbed forest and urban areas. The most frequently encountered amphibian species along the hiking trail and urban areas was Duttaphrynus stomaticus, with Hoplobatrachus tigerinus in undisturbed forest. The most common and frequently encountered lizard species along the hiking trail and urban areas was Hemidactylus brookii, while the Ophisops jerdonii was the most frequently seen in undisturbed forest. The most common and frequently encountered snake species along the hiking trail and undisturbed forest was the Indotyphlops braminus, while Ptyas mucosa was the most common in urban areas. The subsequent bio-assessment, based on herpetofauna, of the Park revealed good to excellent biotic integrity The Park faces threats including livestock grazing, alien invasive vegetation and human disturbance due to settlements, restaurants and tourism-related activities. While several of these threats have been mitigated since the establishment of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board, the Park still requires improved management, especially regarding regulating tourism.
Rajabizadeh, M. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Khosravani, A. & Barani-Beiranvand, H. & Faizi, H. & Oraei, H. (2010) -
This report presents a new record of Iranolacerta brandtii brandtii from 30 km south of Tekab City, West Azarbaijan Province and 130 km south of the previously known distribution range of the subspecies; a new record of Iranolacerta zagrosica in Kaljonun mountain peak, Lorestan Province, about 70 km northwest of the type locality; a new record of Apathya cappadocica urmiana in the Manesht protected area in Ilam Province, which is the southernmost known locality of the subspecies; and a new record of Apathya yassujica in Pire Ghar, south of Farsan city in Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari Province, about 200 km northwest of the type locality.
Ramadan, N.F. & Saoud, M.F.A. & Mohammed, S.H. & Fawzi, S.M. (1996) -
Ramadanovic, D. & Zimic, A. (2019) -
Ramón, M. & Castro, J.A. (1988) -
The Balearic lizard P. lilfordi inhabits the Gymnesies Islands and have sexual dimorphism. By means of biometric studies and analyses such as the discriminant analysis, it has been determined the morphometric characters that determine this sexual dimorphism. The characters chosen by the analysis were: body length, pileus width, number of gular scales, length of the four finger of the posterior leg. The differential measures of these characters makes the males to have a burlness and robustness greater than the females of the same population. Nevertheless, it cannot be said that in all P. lilfordi populations, the males will be aways the most burliness and robustness,but this will depend upon th population of P. lilfordi we take into consideration.
Ramon, M. & Terrasa, B. & Arranz, M.J. & Petitpierre, E. (1986) -
Ramón, M.M. & Castro, J.A. (1989) -
Comparisons among eight populations of Podarcis lilfordi, seven of Podarcis pityusensis (representative lizards of the Balearic Archipielago), and one of Podarcis hispanica atrata fro the Columbretes Islands, have been made from a morphological point of view, measuring 15 morphometric characters of the lizards. Cluster and discriminant analyses were obtained for males and females to show the relationships among the different populations and species. These analyses gave three groups: one of them with the most P. lilfordi populations, other with the most P. pityusensis populations, and a well seperated group with the P. hispanica atrata species. Some populations connect the groups of P. lilfordi and P. pityusensis. The possibility that P. lilfordi and P. pityusensis be two pattern of variation inside the same species instead of two well differentiated species is considered, altrough further studies are necessary.
Ramon, M.M. & Castro, J.A. & Arranz, M.J. (1991) -
Ramos, J.J. & Díaz-Portero, M.A. (2008) -
Rams, I. (2020) -
The gonads are specific organs since the testes and ovaries, as organs with totally different structure, develop from common, undifferentiated anlages termed genital ridges. Cells sharing the same origin commit various fate, and form different structures, depending on sex determination. The testes and ovaries are therefore a valuable object of research on cell differentiation and mechanisms of organ structure patterning. The development of gonads in reptiles has been studied in few species and many aspects of gonadogenesis in this group of vertebrates have remained unclear. Comparative descriptions showing similarities and differences in gonad development between lizard species have been scarce. The aim of the study was to investigate changes in the structure of developing gonads occurring at the early stages of development in selected species of lizards. The study was carried out on six species of lizards: Correlophus ciliatus, Lepidodactylus lugubris, Eublepharis macularius, Takydromus sexlineatus, Anolis carolinensis and Chamaeleo calyptratus. Gonads were subjected to trichromatic staining specifically revealing connective tissue and basement membranes, which enabled to image the internal structure of the organ. In differentiating testes, the cortex reduces to a thin epithelium, and the germ cells disappear in the reducing cortex, while in the medulla the epithalial cells differentiate and testis cords, containing the germ cells, form. In differentiating ovaries, the cortex grows, which is accompanied by an increase in the number of germ cells in this part of the gonad; the ovarian cortex surrounds the entire medulla or forms only a cluster of cells at the distal gonad pole as in geckos; in the ovarian medulla, cells can eventually differentiate in epithelial structures, and in the leopard gecko even form well-organized cords. The main interspecific differences in the structure of developing gonads concerned a shape of the gonads, their cortex and medulla, and the tendency of ovarian medulla cells to form epithelial structures and cords. The veiled chameleon turned out to be a unique species, in which gonadal development rate is accelerated in relation to soma development. Despite describing significant diversity in the structure of developing lizard gonads, this study reveals the existence of a common model of sexual differentiation of gonads independent of the genetic or temperature sex determination.
Rancilhac, L. & Miralles, A. & Geniez, P. & Mendez-Aranda, D. & Beddek, M. & Brito, J.C. & Leblois, R. & Crochet, P.-A. (2023) -
Aim: Discontinuity in the distribution of genetic diversity (often based on mtDNA) is usually interpreted as evidence for phylogeographic breaks, underlying vicariant units. However, a misleading signal of phylogeographic break can arise in the absence of barrier to gene flow, under mechanisms of isolation by distance (IBD). How and under which conditions phylogeographic breaks can be reliably differentiated from populations evolving under IBD remain unclear. Here, we use multi-locus sequence data from a widely distributed lizard species to address these questions in an empirical setting. - Location: Morocco. - Taxon: Spiny-footed lizard (Acanthodactylus erythrurus), Squamata: Lacertidae. - Methods: Using 325 samples from 40 localities, we identified genetic discontinuities within A. erythrurus based on a mitochondrial fragment and nine nuclear markers independently. Using the nuclear markers, we then applied linear regression models to investigate whether genetic divergence could be explained by geographical distances alone, or barriers to gene flow (real phylogeographic breaks). - Results: A. erythrurus is characterized by an important mitochondrial diversity, with 11 strongly supported phylogeographic lineages with a crown age of 6 Mya. Nuclear markers, however, yielded weak phylogenetic support for these lineages. Using clustering methods based on genotypes at nine nuclear loci, we identified phylogeographic clusters that were partly discordant with the mtDNA lineages. Tests of IBD delimited at least four groups of populations separated by barriers to gene flow, but unambiguous separation of vicariance from IBD remained challenging in several cases. - Main conclusions: The genetic diversity of A. erythrurus originates from a mix of IBD and vicariance, which were difficult to distinguish, and resulted in similar levels of mitochondrial differentiation. These results highlight that phylogeographic breaks inferred from mitochondrial data should be further investigated using multilocus data and explicit testing to rule out alternative processes generating discontinuities in mitochondrial diversity, including IBD. We identified four groups of populations within A. erythrurus, separated by barriers to gene flow, but even using nine independent nuclear makers the power of our approach was limited, and further investigation using genome-wide data will be required to resolve the phylogeographic history of this species.
Rando, J.C. (2002) -
Rando, J.C. & Betoret, A. & Martin, A, & Barone, R. (2004) -
Rando, J.C. & Hernández, E. & López, M. & González, A.M. (1997) -
Comment on: Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution, 6 (1): 63-71.
Rando, J.C. & López, M. (2001) -
Rando, J.C. & Valido, A. (2000) -
Rando, J.C. & Valido, A. & Nogales, M. & Martin, A. (2000) -
Randow, H. (1927) -
Rashid, M.R. (2007) -
Habitat change is one of the prime causes of decline in biodiversity. Both human induced and natural causes are responsible for habitat change. Sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) is an endangered species in northwest Europe. The study was aimed at monitoring habitat change and finding out whether there was any relation between habitat change and sand lizard population dynamics. The study was based on Terschelling and Vlieland, two northern islands of the Netherlands. The study area is characterized by sand dunes along the coast. 288 SPOT Vegetation 10 days composite NDVI images from April 1998 to March 2006 were used in the study. SPOT NDVI images of the study area were classified in five classes using ISODATA clustering algorithm. Mean NDVI of those classes over 288 decades (10 days) were used to monitor habitat change. Vegetation, sandy open patches and south or south west aspect are three important environmental parameters of sand lizard habitat. Among these parameters vegetation is most susceptible to change. Extensive grass or bush encroachment in dunes can result in decline in sandy open patches thus having negative impact on sand lizard habitat. Terschelling and Vlieland are inhabited by a very small size of sand lizard population. Particularly sand lizard population in Terschelling is alarmingly low. Unlike Terschelling sand lizard population in Vlieland has increased in recent years. It appeared from NDVI time series analysis that there was no significant change in vegetation in Terschelling and Vlieland during 1998 to 2005. The analysis did not indicate extensive grass or shrub encroachment in dunes which could cause habitat degradation. It was found that habitat change had no or very little influence on sand lizard population in the area.
Rassati, G. (2009) -
Contribution to the knowledge of the distribution of Horvath’s rock lizard Iberolacerta horvathi and Common wall lizard Podarcis muralis in the Friuli Venezia Giulia and in the Veneto regions (North-eastern Italy) – Data collected between 2002 and 2008, during an investigation aimed to fi nd unknown populations of Iberolacerta horvathi and at extending the knowledge about the distribution of Podarcis muralis in Northern Friuli Venezia Giulia and Veneto, are given. Iberolacerta horvathi has been found in 22 new localities, increasing of about 45% of those previously known in Italy, between 520 and 1825 metres a.s.l.. Podarcis muralis has been found in 103 localities, most of them in UTM squares (10X10 Km) not covered by the national atlas. In Friuli Venezia Giulia the species has been found regularly over 900 metres a.s.l. where suitable habitats are present, and locally it reaches 1800 metres a.s.l.. The two species have been found in syntopy in eight localities between 520 and 1800 metres a.s.l.. The Mount Dimon represents the highest locality where in Friuli Venezia Giulia Podarcis muralis has been found and the two lizards in Italy are in syntopy. Finally it has to be pointed out that the works for construction, maintenance and extension of walls, roads etcetera might drastically reduce the suitable habitat of the two species.
Rassati, G. (2019) -
In the last 20 years or so, Horvath’s Rock Lizard Iberolacerta horvathi has been found at over 40 new sites, allowing us to describe a more realistic distribution pattern of the species and to provide novel elements for its understanding. In Italy, the species is distributed only in the north-eastern extremity in 37 UTM squares. Records in the Carnic Prealps and in Veneto have greatly increased. The first quantitative data on the species in Italy, coming from two areas (one in the Carnic Alps, the other in the Julian Alps), show high variability among the months in which it was censused. Although impacts and threats are generally considered to be not very serious, there are factors that can affect (in some cases having done so already) even populations living in apparently safe sites, e.g. interventions in environments deriving from human activity, construction works and meteorological events caused by climate change.
Rassati, G. (2020) -
In 2019, a survey was conducted on the omnivory of the Common wall lizard Podarcis muralis in Tolmezzo (Carnia). Consumption of the following foods/species was recorded: Podarcis muralis, apple, pear, banana, melon, wa termelon, pineapple, plum, tomato, Arum italicum, Fragaria vesca, chicken egg, Chaenomeles japonica. Use of the carcass of a conspecifi c and consumption of a dry leaf are also reported. A review of the available literature failed to fi nd reports of these foods. This use occurred with relative regularity and was performed in 57.14% of cases by males and in 25% by females.
Rassati, G. (2021) -
In 2019 and 2020, monthly censuses were carried out along pre-established transect lines in an area in the Carnic Alps and an area in the Julian Alps. The monthly kilometric abundance index (No. ind./km) varied from 0 to 32 in one area and from 0 to 21 in the other. The abundance values showed high variability among months. This variability and its difference between the two areas were influenced by the climate and its diverse effects due to the site differences. Variation in the phenology of the species was verified, with individuals active throughout the year at high altitudes.
Rassati, H. (2020) -
The observation on 14-9-2019 of an individual of Horvath’s rock lizard Iberolacerta horvathi on a retaining wall of the Raccolana Valley road is the fi rst record of tail bifurcation in the genus Iberolacerta.
Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2009) -
The rapid fringe-toed lizard, Eremias velox, is widely distributed in the Iranian plateau and Central Asia. Several local morphotypes have so far been reported from different parts of its range, representing this taxon as a species complex. In an attempt to reveal phylogenetic relationships among various populations of this complex group, 37 specimens from 13 geographically distant localities in Iran and central Asia, covering most parts of its range, were sampled. Using Inter Simple Sequence Repeat amplification (ISSR-PCR) as a molecular marker, whole the nuclear genome of all specimens was screened. Phylogenetic analysis of the prepared data set successfully recovered seven major clades within the E. velox complex. Relationships among the major clades were highly resolved with remarkable statistical supports and well correspond to the geographic distribution of the populations. The reconstructed phylogeny implies that the clade as a whole has been originated in the Iranian plateau and expanded into central Asia before uplifting the Kopet-Dagh Mountains. It has then undergone a rapid cladogenesis in the latter area and produced several morphotypes. Within the Iranian clades two main groups could be defined, the foothill and highland dwellers and the open plane and desert dweller populations. The phylogenetic tree together with the estimated amounts of genetic distances among the independent lineages, provide good grounds for a fundamental revision of the taxonomic status of the Eremias velox complex.
Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Avci, A. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Ilgaz, Ç & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. (2013) -
Iran is located in an area that is bordered by several mountains and contains herpetofaunal constituents from adjacent countries such as Pakistan, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Turkey. We surveyed several border provinces of Iran to more completely understand the Iranian herpetofauna. During one survey in the northwestern part of Iran we found a species of the genus Eremias that can be added to Iran’s herpetofauna. Previously, the distribution of Eremias suphani was limited to the Van Lake in Turkey (type locality). We compared Iranian samples with E. suphani from Turkey using a molecular marker (Cytochrome b) and confirmed that this species is also present in Iran. The new record of this species is located on the road from Firoragh to Chaldoran in the west of the province of Azarbaijan, Iran.
Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Wink, M. (2015) -
Strauch`s Racerunner, Eremias strauchi, is represented by two subspecies, Eremias strauchi strauchi Kessler, 1878 and Eremias strauchi kopetdaghica Szczerbak, 1972, occurring in opposite margins on the northern Iranian Plateau. We sequenced 3926 base pairs of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA from 16 samples of Eremias strauchi, Eremias lalezharica and Eremias velox collected from northeastern, northwestern and southern Iran. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that Eremias lalezharica is sister to Eremias strauchi kopetdaghica and caused the currently recognised species Eremias strauchi to be paraphyletic. According to the estimated genetic distances in the mitochondrial fragments among the lineages, E. s. strauchi diverged from E. s. kopetdaghica and E. lalezharica with a mean genetic distance of 14.0% and 13.9% respectively. Our data indicate enough molecular divergence between the two currently recognised subspecies of E. strauchi and justify upgrading them to full species level as Eremias strauchi (for the north-western clade) and Eremias kopetdaghica (for the north-eastern clade).
Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Arab, M. (2013) -
Based on extensive field work in various regions of Golestan Province, northeastern Iran, the Steiner, s lacertid lizard, Darevskia steineri (Eiselt, 1995) is re-discovered. After Eiselt, s record and description (based on museum material), this is for the first time that Darevskia steineri is observed and reported from Iran.
Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Rastegar-Pouyani, R. & Kazemi Noureini, S. & Joger, U. & Wink, M. (2010) -
The Persian racerunner Eremias persica Blanford, 1875 is confined to the Iranian plateau, and forms one of the most widespread but rarely studied species of the family Lacertidae. With many local populations inhabiting a variety of habitats, and exhibiting considerable morphological, genetic, and ecological variations, it represents a species complex. We analysed sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome b and 12S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes derived from 13 geographically distant populations belonging to the E. persica complex. Using our knowledge of palaeogeographical events, a molecular clock was calibrated to assess the major events in fragmentation, radiation, and intraspecific variation. The sequence data strongly support a basal separation of the highland populations of western Iran from those of the open steppes and deserts, occurring in the east. The subsequent radiation, fragmentation, and evolution of these major assemblages have led to several discernable geographical lineages across the wide area of the Iranian plateau. The results indicate a middle-Miocene origin for the clade as a whole. The first split, isolating the western and eastern clades, appears to have occurred 11–10 Mya. Further fragmentations and divergence within the major clades began about 8 Mya, with an evolutionary rate of 1.6% sequence divergence per million years among the lineages in the genes studied (combined data set). Molecular and morphological data strongly support a taxonomic revision of this species complex. At least four of the discovered clades should be raised to species, and two to subspecies, rank.
Rastegar-Pouyani, E., S. Hosseinian, S. Rafiee, H.G. Kami, M. Rajabizadeh & M. Wink (2016) -
A new species of the lacertid genus Eremias Fitzinger, 1834 is described from northwest of Isfahan province, Central Iran. Two mitochondrial genes (cyt b and 12S DNA) were sequenced and analyzed as reliable molecular markers for the separation of this newly discovered species from closely related species within the genus Eremias: E. velox, E. persica, E. papenfussi, E. lalezharica, E. montana, E. strauchi, E. kopetdaghica and E. suphani. Genetic distances (K2-p) between any of these species with the newly described species are relatively high (27.5–32.8% for cyt b and 5.2–10.4% for 12S DNA). Phylogenetic analyses (MP, ML and BI) generated trees with very similar topologies. According to molecular and morphological data, Eremias isfahanica sp. nov. belongs to the subgenus Aspidorhinus, and is closely related to E. papenfussi. Because several new Eremias species have recently been described from the Iranian Plateau, we additionally provide an updated identification key.
Rastegar-Pouyani, E.R. & Noureini, S.K. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N.R. & Joger, U. & Wink, M. (2012) -
The Central Asian racerunner, Eremias velox, is a widely distributed lizard of the Eurasian lacertid genus Eremias. Nucleotide sequences of mitochondrial genes, cyt b and 12S rDNA from 13 geographically distant localities in Iran and Central Asia, were analysed. Phylogenetic analyses of the sequence data unambiguously recovered five major clades within the E. velox complex with a high level of genetic divergence, indicating long periods of isolation. The basal position of the Iranian clades in the phylogenetic trees suggests that the E. velox clade originated on the Iranian plateau in the Middle Miocene. According to our calibrations, the northern Iranian clade diverged first some 10–11 Ma and that the Central Asian lineages split from the northeastern Iranian lineage approximately 6 Ma, most likely as a result of uplifting of the Kopet-Dagh Mountains in the northern margin of the Iranian plateau. Topology of the phylogenetic trees, combined with the degree of the genetic distances among the independent lineages recovered in this study, provide a solid foundation for a fundamental revision of the taxonomic status of the major clades within this species complex.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (1998) -
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (1999) -
The first record of the lacertid lizard Acanthodactylus boskianus for Iran is presented based on material collected by the author in 1995 and 1996 from 2 km west of Harsin, Kermanshah province, western Iran, on the Astragalus -covered sandy hills at about 1420 m elevation. Systematics and distribution of this lizard are discussed and its conventional known subspecies are questioned.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2006) -
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2007) -
The lacertid lizards of the genus Lacerta Linnaeus, 1758 occur in Iran with at least 13 documented species. Of these, the recently described and endemic species, Lacerta zagrosica Rastegar-Pouyani &Nilson 1998, was originally recorded in a very restricted locality in the rocky areas of the central Zagros Mountains, Isfahan Province, westcentral Iran at about 2500 m elevation. During a long-term study and field work in the Zagros Mountains, some new and remote localities were found for this species in the high mountainous regions of the central Zagros Mountains at the elevation of more than 3000 m. The area is covered by snow for at least eight months within a year. So, the hibernation period is extraordinarily long for this species in the studied area. These new and mountainous localities are located in Isfahan and Kohguiluyeh-va-Buyer Ahmad Provinces, west-central Iran. Based on this study, a certain degree of geographic variation exists between the original, topotypic population of Lacerta zagrosica and the newly recorded, above-mentioned, populations. Systematics and relationships of Lacerta zagrosica are shortly discussed and ist distribution map is given.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Afroosheh, M. (2011) -
In spite of numerous studies done on the morphometric characters of lizards, information about the detailed characters of their skeletons remains insufficient. In this study, the skulls of two different species of lizards, cleared and double-stained, have been examined and compared: Laudakia caucasia Eichwald, 1831 and Lacerta media Lantz and Cyrén, 1920. The aim of this paper is to study the characteristics and peculiarities of the skulls of the two above-mentioned species of lizards in order to facilitate diagnosis and identification of the living species and subfossil remains and to evaluate changes in skull morphology in a phylogenetic context. For doing this, characters of the skull and mandibular elements were studied. The existence of differences between these two genera and families Laudakia caucasia (Agamidae) and Lacerta media (Lacertidae), according to the bone and skull characters, have been explained. The obvious differences that show off are: dimension of the supratemporal fossae, thickness of the individual bones, and head length/width ratio. Other obvious differences are the type of dentition, differences in form, size and special manner of joining bones like existence of differences in lower jaw and braincase architecture, and reviewing some differences in the skulls of two different phylogenetic lines.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Amini, A. & Torki, F. (2009) -
As a model for study of spermatogenesis durability in lizards, 75 specimens of the snakeeyed lizard, Ophisops elegans, were collected from western Iranian Plateau. The testes of each specimen were removed, during four years from March to October. Based on histological and statistical analyses, three phases were observed in Ophisops elegans as follows: (I) active phase that occurs from March to May, (II) transitional phase that occurs from June to July and finally (III) resting phase that occurs from August to October. Based on this study, spermatogenesis durability in O. elegans is less than five months. Spermatogenesis durability of O. elegans occurred in post-hibernation period and stopped in pre-hibernation.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Faizi, H. & Oraei, H. & Khosravani, A. & Fathinia, B. & Heidari., N. & Karamiani, R. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2011) -
In this paper, we present a brief history of herpetology in Iran, discuss its current status, and review some important works carried out by Iranian and non-Iranian herpetologists. Current problems, information, and challenges associated with herpetology in Iran are presented. Finally, current herpetological studies in Iran are introduced and potential biodiversity hotspots of herpetofauna in Iran are identified. These potential hotspots are strongly recommended by experts in the country to be considered for studies at the graduate level.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Gholamifard, A. & Karamiani, R. & Bahmani, X. & Mobaraki, A. & Abtin, E. & Faizi, H. & Heidari, N. & Takesh, M. & Sayyadi, F. & Ahsani, N. & Browne, R.K. (2015) -
The global initiative toward sustainability includes the long term protection of biodiversity. Northern and western Iran are part of the Irano-Anatolian biodiversity hot spot that has many centers of endemism as a biogeographical center for the origin of many amphibian and reptile taxa. A high diversity of habitat types coupled with climatologically diverse environments result in the 13 different physiographic regions that support this biodiversity. The known herpetofauna of Iran comprises approximately 232 reptile and 22 amphibian species belonging to about 100 genera, 31 families, five orders and three suborders. The Squamata with 199 species in 78 genera and 18 families is the most specious reptilian order in Iran and account for approximately 85 percent of the herpetofauna. Fifty five endemic species in 11 families and 22 genera are considered here. At present, numerous factors, including habitat destruction through increased agriculture, as well as vegetation burning and climate change along with increasing risks of desertification have made a major impact on various ecosystems. Further, threats come from exotic species, the use of reptile products in traditional medicine and food, and pollution. There are ten Vulnerable, four Endangered, and seven Critically Endangered herpetofaunal elements in Iran. The establishment of protected areas, participation of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in herpetological conservation, and more research of taxonomy, species range and habitats, threats and their mitigation are required for the sustainable management of Iranian herpetofauna. A concerted Iranian and international program for the sustainable management of Iranian herpetofauna is required because of Iran’s biogeographic status, its high level of herpetological diversity and endemicity, and its importance as a global biodiversity hot spot.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Heidari, N. & Faizi, H. (2011) -
In this paper an analysis of geographic variation was carried out in 68 specimens of Acanthodactylus blanfordi belonging to four populations from southern and southeastern Iran using ten metric and seven meristic characters. Inter-population differences in some characters were analyzed by Post-hoc ANOVA pair-wise (LSD-Test), ANCOVA as well as multivariate analyses including Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA) across all the studied groups. Separate analyses for males and females individuals across all four populations revealed significant differences in tail length for males and females in all populations. Results of ANCOVA show significant differences among populations in head length, head width and length of arm for females and length of leg and eye-ear distance for males. Results of multivariate analyses show little differences and separation among the four studied populations.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Kami, H.G. & Rajabizadeh, M. & Shafiei, S. & Anderson, S.C. (2008) -
An updated checklist of the herpetofauna of Iran is presented based on records of amphibian and reptile species whose presence has been confirmed in Iran as a result of extensive field expeditions, examination of herpetological collections, literature review, and personal communications from researchers. The herpetofauna of Iran consists of 13 species and five subspecies of frogs and toads belonging to five genera and four families, eight species of salamanders belonging to four genera and two families, nine species and six subspecies of turtles, terrapins and tortoises belonging to nine genera and six families, one species of crocodile, one species of amphisbaenian, more than 125 species of lizards belonging to 36 genera and eight families as well as 79 species of snakes belonging to 37 genera and six families
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Karamiani, R. & Oraei, H. & Khosrawani, A. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2011) -
Based on extensive field work in the northern Zagros Mountains, a new subspecies of Darevskia raddei (Boettger, 1892) from the west Azerbaijan Province, northwestern Iran is described. The new subspecies is distinguishable from all the other three subspecies of D. raddei based on the combination of several distinguishing characters, such as dorsal body with 50−55 oval to round, smooth, or very weakly keeled, scales, 25−31 scales across the gular region, 18−20 femoral pores on each side of body (reaching the knee), 29−31 tuberculate lamellae under the fourth toe, 11−12 supraciliaries, 9−11 collars and a specific color pattern. The new subspecies meets all the morphological characters described by Eiselt et al. (1993) for an undefined and intermediate form between D. raddei raddei in the east of and D. r. vanensis in the west of the distribution range of the species.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Karamiani, R. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2011) -
So far, seven species of the genus Darevskia Arribas, 1997 have been documented from Iran: Darevskia chlorogaster (Boulenger, 1909), Darevskia deilippii (Camerano, 1877), Darevskia mostouii (Baloutch, 1976), Darevskia praticola (Eversmann, 1834), Darevskia steineri (Eiselt, 1995), Darevskia valentini (Boettger, 1892) and Darevskia raddei (Boettger, 1892). Based on extensive and long-lasting ield work in various regions of the Iranian Plateau, taxonomy and distribution of the lacertid lizards of the genus Darevskia Arribas, 1997 are discussed. Some new records and a new taxonomic entity within this genus are reported. The distribution maps of all the studied species are given and a key to the Iranian species of Darevskia is provided.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Khosravani, A. (2008) -
The genus Mesalina Gray 1838 is a holophyletic genus within the Lacertidae, mostly occurring in the Saharo-Sindian region as well as North Africa. This genus encompasses 13-14 species, 2-3 of which occurring in Iran. The Iranian species of Mesalina are as follows: Mesalina watsonana, M. brevirostris and, most likely, M. gutulatta. Of these, M. watsonana is widely distributed, occurring in most parts of the Iranian Plateau. Based on extensive study and research, systematics and distribution of the Iranian Plateau species of Mesalina are discussed and their distribution maps are given.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Nilson, G. (1997) -
A new species of the lacertid genus and subgenus Eremias is described based on material collected by the senior author from 150 km northeast of Shiraz, Fars province, south-central Iran at about 1800 m elevation. It differs from all other Iranian species of the typical subgenus (E. persica, E strauchi, E velox and E. lalezharica) in that it has a very distinctive and unique color pattern, unmistakable in this character the wide dorsolateral stripe is uniformly black without light spots and there is no ocelli on the upper surface of limbs; the third pair of submaxillary shields are separated by 4 granular scales; and the tympanic shield is rudimentary and almost absent. The new species is sympatric with Eremias persica and apparently restricted in distribution to the steppes and open plains in the northern regions of Fars province south-central Iran.
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Nilson, G. (1998) -
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2001) -
Rastegar-Pouyani, N. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. (2006) -
A new and distinctive form belonging to the genus and subgenus Eremias Fitzinger, 1834 is reported from the highlands of Alvand Mountains, Hamedan Province, western Iran at about 2700 m elevation. It is easily distinguished from all the other species of the typical subgenus (E. velox, E. persica, E. strauchi, E. nigrolateralis E. lalezharica E. afghanistanica, E. regeli, E. suphani, and E. nikolskit) by having a variable number of postmentals (4-5 pairs); smaller size, and a distinctive color pattern. Furthermore, it can be distinguished by having a combination of characters against any of the species in the typical subgenus. Further work, using both morphological arid molecular techniques, is now being carried out on this new form in order to determine its exact taxonomic and phylogenetic status. Systematics of the genus Eremias is shortly discussed.
Rathbauer, F. (2002) -
Ratini, A. & Filosa, S. (1972) -
Rato, C. & Dellinger, T. & Carretero, M.A. (2022) -
Living on islands entails numerous challenges for animals, among which population density approaching the carrying capacity of trophic resources stands out. To overcome this limitation, many insular lizards can supplement their insectivorous diet with increasing portions of plant material. The Madeira wall lizard, Teira dugesii, is a medium-sized lacertid, endemic to the Madeira and Selvagens archipelagos. As common in this family, adults are sexually dimorphic with males being bigger than females. Previous dietary studies on morphological scatology identified a higher proportion of plant over animal prey items, changing according to the location and sex. Here, we used DNA metabarcoding to examine the diet of this lizard species quantifying it at a higher taxonomical resolution and enhancing the detection of soft-body prey that often go undetected in morphologybased studies. In a sample of 151 faecal samples from eight populations including different habitats and altitudes in Madeira, we identified 289 prey items belonging to eight animal and three plant Classes, encompassing 58 distinct orders and 140 families. Of these, 63 were identified up to the species level. The results support a strong trend towards herbivory in this species with plants representing almost 74% of the diet occurrences in contrast to the 26% of animal prey. Remarkably, the plant fraction of the diet remained stable across localities but varied with size and mass in males. As males grew bigger and heavier, they significantly increased their plant matter intake. Likely, larger bodies and abdomens allowed allocating longer and more complex digestive tracts harbouring intestinal flora to better decompose plant organic compounds. This allowed heavier animals to have a richer diet regime. However, diet richness and composition were not affected by either sex or size, while the locality had a significant effect on both diet components likely in response to local variation in prey availability. By including an increasing plant fraction into a primarily insectivorous diet, this insular lizard has not only enlarged its trophic niche but is also able to exploit more efficiently the highly variable resources provided by insular environments.
Rato, C. & Dellinger, T. & Carretero, M.A. (2023) -
Living on islands entails numerous challenges for animals, among which population density approaching the carrying capacity of trophic resources stands out. To overcome this limitation, many insular lizards can supplement their insectivorous diet with increasing portions of plant material. The Madeira wall lizard, Teira dugesii, is a mediumsized lacertid, endemic to the Madeira and Selvagens archipelagos. As common in this family, adults are sexually dimorphic with males being bigger than females. Previous dietary studies on morphological scatology identified a higher proportion of plant over animal prey items, changing according to the location and sex. Here, we used DNA metabarcoding to examine the diet of this lizard species quantifying it at a higher taxonomical resolution and enhancing the detection of softbody prey that often go undetected in morphology based studies. In a sample of 151 faecal samples from eight populations including different habitats and altitudes in Madeira, we identified 289 prey items belonging to eight animal and three plant Classes, encompassing 58 distinct orders and 140 families. Of these, 63 were identified up to the species level. The results support a strong trend towards herbivory in this species with plants representing almost 74% of the diet occurrences in contrast to the 26% of animal prey. Remarkably, the plant fraction of the diet remained stable across localities but varied with size and mass in males. As males grew bigger and heavier, they significantly increased their plant matter intake. Likely, larger bodies and abdomens allowed allocating longer and more complex digestive tracts harbouring intestinal flora to better decompose plant organic compounds. This allowed heavier animals to have a richer diet regime. However, diet richness and composition were not affected by either sex or size, while the locality had a significant effect on both diet components likely in response to local variation in prey availability. By including an increasing plant fraction into a primarily insectivorous diet, this insular lizard has not only enlarged its trophic niche but is also able to exploit more efficiently the highly variable resources provided by insular environments.
Rato, C. & Marques, V. & Paracuellos, M. & Tortolero, J. & Nevado, J.C. & Carretero, M.A. (2021) -
Alborán is a small volcanic island located in the center of the Alborán Sea, W Mediterranean, 85 km from the Iberian Peninsula (Europe) and 55.5 km from the NW African coast line. Despite its small size (605 × 265 m), four distinct exotic lizard species have already been reported there, one of them presumably extinct (Saurodactylus mauritanicus). Throughout history, the island has maintained an intermittent human presence, being now permanently occupied by a military detachment connected to the Iberian Peninsula mainly by means of cargo shipments. Hence, this communication between the island and the continent has fuelled human-mediated species introductions. Populations of the geckos Tarentola mauritanica and Hemidactylus turcicus and the most recently reported wall lizard Podarcis vaucheri still remain in the island. Here, we used molecular tools to assess species identity and putative invasion pathways. As expected, results confirm the initial species assignement and indicate southern Iberia as the source area. However, surprisingly, two clades of T. mauritanica were found, the European clade commonly introduced elsewhere, and the Iberian clade, reported here for the first time outside its native distribution. Moreover, the reported southern Iberian lineage of P. vaucheri in Alborán, represents the third case of introduction of this species. This amazing concentration of alien species in such a reduced territory highlights how prone small islands are to be sucessfully invaded, and that these should not be neglected in invasion biology. The effects of these alien reptile species over native taxa are yet unknown, although an impact over several endemic invertebrates cannot be ruled out. As such, regular monitoring should be implemented to prevent they act as hubs for future new introductions.
Rato, C. & Sillero, N. & Ceacero, F. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2021) -
The Iberian Algyroides (Algyroides marchi) is a lacertid lizard with one of the narrow est distribution ranges in continental Europe, restricted to a minute area in the Subbaetic mountains in SE Spain. Due to specifc habitat requirements, this species is considered threatened by climate change and habitat degradation. Here, an improved and time-cali brated multilocus phylogenetic analysis, combining two mitochondrial, three nuclear mark ers as well as a battery of 12 microsatellite loci, was performed. Moreover, ancestral changes in efective population size were determined under Approximate Bayesian Com putation (ABC) analysis. In parallel, past, present and future habitat suitability was inferred using Ecological Niche Models (ENMs). The diversifcation of A. marchi in the Iberian Peninsula began during the Upper-Pleistocene around 0.10 Mya. However, during the Last Interglacial the species had much larger suitable habitats along NE Iberia and/or the Can tabrian region. Indeed, ABC analysis indicates that not the Last Interglacial, but instead the Last Glacial Maximum led to a population bottleneck followed by a recovery/expan sion. The footprint of this complex evolutionary history is refected today in six mono phyletic lineages, with little genetic diferentiation and geographic coherency. This pat tern most likely arises from the climatic oscillations during the Pleistocene, leading to a complete range shift and secondary contact, with very divergent haplogroups in sympatry and exchanging genes. Finally, the ENMs predict a considerable future retraction and shift in the area suitable for the species, which should be taken into account for conservation policies.
Rato, C. & Stratakis, M. & Sousa-Guedes, D. & Sillero, N. & Corti, C. & Freitas, S. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. (2020) -
Anatolia is characterized by a complex topological structure and a wide diversity of climatic regions. This geological context has been crucial during the evolution of the rock lizard genus Darevskia, promoting the origin of several species within this group of lizards. Our study focuses on the evolutionary history of the rudis species complex, comprised by Darevskia rudis, D. valentini and D. portschinskii, distributed across Anatolia and the Caucasus, with overlapping ranges. Previous studies have suggested the existence of ancient gene flow between these taxa, which, allied with poor sampling, led to weakly resolved phylogenies and mismatching topologies. Here, we employ two mitochondrial (cytb and ND4) and two nuclear (MC1R and C‐mos) DNA fragments, coupled with ecological niche modelling and a significant representation of the species’ wide distribution range to further assess relationships. The specimens identified either as Darevskia rudis or as D. valentini appear as paraphyletic and substructured into four clades, which started to differentiate during the lower Pleistocene (around 1.3 Mya). We also differentiate genetically the recently described Darevskia bithynica and identify the Kizil River valley as a strong vicariant candidate to explain the origin of this species by allopatric speciation. Moreover, the eastern Black Sea Mountains seem to have played an important role as glacial refugium for several populations of D. rudis. Overall, the present study confirms the circum‐Black Sea as a potential Pleistocene refuge and supports the refugia‐within‐refugia hypothesis with the finding of several geographically coherent evolutionary units in the region.
Rato, C. & Yildiz, M.Z. & Igci, N. & Olgun, K. & Ilgar, C. & Avci, A. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Carretero, M.A. (2015) -
The Persian Lizard, Iranolacerta brandtii, was until recently considered to be restricted to north-western Iran (Azerbaijan and Esfahan provinces). However, two recent studies have revealed the existence of populations in Eastern Anatolia, extending the range of this species for about 230 km westwards. The fragmented distribution of this species has been considered to be a consequence of the climatic oscillations during the Pleistocene and Holocene, which created events of alternating contact and isolation of populations in distinct glacial refugia. According to our obtained genealogy derived from three mitochondrial fragments (12S rRNA, 16S rRNA and cytb), the Turkish specimens cluster together but form an independent clade, sister to the individuals from Tabriz in Iran. The separation of these two clades is concurrent with the cladogenesis between the Esfahan and Ardabil clades, estimated to have taken place during the late Holocene.
Raucci, F. & D’Aniello, S. & Di Flore, M.M. (2005) -
In the lizard Podarcis s. sicula, a substantial amount of -aspartate (-Asp) is endogenous to the testis and shows cyclic changes of activity connected with sex hormone profiles during the annual reproductive phases. Testicular -Asp content shows a direct correlation with testosterone titres and a reverse correlation with 17-estradiol titres. In vivo experiments, consisting of i.p. injections of 2·0 μmol/g body weight of -Asp or other amino acids, in lizards collected during the three main phases of the reproductive cycle (pre-reproductive, reproductive and post-reproductive period), revealed that the testis can specifically take up and accumulate -Asp alone. Moreover, this amino acid influences the synthesis of testosterone and 17-estradiol in all phases of the cycle. This phenomenon is particularly evident during the pre- and post-reproductive period, when endogenous testosterone levels observed in both testis and plasma were the lowest and 17-estradiol concentrations were the highest. -Asp rapidly induces a fall in 17-estradiol and a rise in testosterone at 3 h post-injection in the testis and at 6 h post-injection in the blood. In vitro experiments show that testicular tissue converted -Asp into -Asp through an aspartate racemase. -Asp synthesis was measured in all phases of the cycle, but was significantly higher during the reproductive period with a peak at pH 6·0. The exogenous -Asp also induces a significant increase in the mitotic activity of the testis at 3 h (P<0·05) and at 6 h (P<0·01). Induction of spermatogenesis by -Asp is recognized by an intense immunoreactivity of the germinal epithelium (spermatogonia and spermatids) for proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). The effects of -Asp on the testis appear to be specific since they were not seen in lizards injected with other - or -forms of amino acids with known excitatory effects on neurosecretion. Our results suggest a regulatory role for -Asp in the steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis of the testis of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula.
Raucci, F. & Di Flore, M.M. (2010) -
We performed an immunohistochemical study to determine the immunolocalization of c-kit and stem cell factor (SCF) in ovarian follicles during the reproductive cycle of the lizard, Podarcis s. sicula. Follicles were serially cut and used for histological and histochemical characterization and also for immunohistochemical detection of both c-kit and SCF. C-kit and SCF were localized in the follicles with a differing pattern with regard to the stage of sexual cycle or the cell type forming the follicular epithelium (granulosa). In pre-reproductive follicles, where the granulosa consists of three main different cytotypes, the c-kit receptor was prevalently localized on the plasmalemma of small cells, although some pyriform and intermediate cells also appeared positive. C-kit was also localized in the theca. In pre-reproductive follicles, SCF was markedly observed in the cytoplasm of some pyriform cells. Small cells and theca also stained moderately positive, whereas the intermediate cells were mostly negative. In reproductive follicles, where granulosa cells are morphologically rearranged, c-kit was observed in small cells and in some thecal elements, while SCF was weakly immunostained. At the site of follicular layer invaginations evident c-kit/SCF immunostaining was observed in the granulosa epithelium and in the theca. These observations suggest that the expression of c-kit and SCF changes as a function of follicular development and may reflect the involvement of this system in the maturation of the oocyte.
We investigated whether the maturation of oocyte follicular epithelium of lizard is affected by D-aspartic acid (D-Asp). Our results demonstrated that D-Asp is endogenously present in the oocytes, and its distribution varies during the reproductive cycle and following intraperitoneal administration. At previtellogenesis, it is observed in the cytoplasm and nucleus of pyriform cells, in intermediate cells, in some small cells of the granulosa, in the ooplasm, and in some thecal elements. At vitellogenesis, D-Asp is localized in the proximity of the zona pellucida, in the theca, and in the ooplasm. Injected D-Asp is mainly captured by pyriform cells and ooplasm of previtellogenic oocytes, but a moderate accumulation is evident in the cytoplasm of some small granulosa cells and in the theca. D-Asp also increases the ovarian and plasmatic levels of 17β-estradiol and decreases those of testosterone. As a direct and/or indirect consequence of D-Asp, previtellogenic oocytes grow up and mature, resulting in a higher accumulation of carbohydrates in the granulosa, zona pellucida, and ooplasm, but also a reduction in the thickness of the granulosa layer and an increase of the theca stratum. Taken together, our results show that D-Asp may be related to the synchrony of reproduction, either enhancing the growth and maturation of follicular epithelium or influencing its endocrine functions.
Rauel, V. (2004) -
Rault, P.-A. (2011) -
Rauscher, K.L. (1992) -
Die hier beschriebenen plio-pleistozänen Echsenfragmente stammen aus den Höhlen- und Spaltenfüllungen von Bad Deutsch-Altenburg an der Donau in Niederösterreich. Für die systematische Bearbeitung des vorhandenen fossilen Materials wurde ausgesuchtes, vergleichbares rezentes Material herangezogen. Die wichtigsten rezenten Knochenelemente wurden isoliert meist in zwei verschiedenen Ansichten gezeichnet und ihre charakteristischen Merkmale herausgearbeitet. Durch diesen Vergleich konnte die fossile Fauna von Bad Deutsch-Altenburg um insgesamt neun Arten erweitert werden. Zwei neue Taxa wurden aufgestellt und beschrieben. Das Vorkommen von Ophisaurus pannonicus KORMOS, 1911 war durch die Arbeit von BACHMAYER k MLYNARSKI (1977) bereits bekannt. Auch die ökologischen Ansprüche dieser neu bestimmten Arten wurden berücksichtigt. Die sehr große Ähnlichkeit zwischen den meisten untersuchten rezenten Arten und dem fossilen Material (abgesehen von Podarcis praemuralis n. sp. und Lacerta altenburgensis n. sp.) läßt den Schluß zu, daß die Echsen im Laufe des Plio-Pleistozäns keine nennenswerte Evolution im Bereich des Schädel- beziehungsweise Unterkieferskelettes durchgemacht haben.
Rauscher, K.L. (2004) -
The find of two lower jaw ossicles in Potoöka zijalka cave is related to Lacerta agilis L. (Sand Lizard).
Rautenberg, S. (2007) -
Tiefblaue Verfärbungen der Kadaver von Zauneidechsen (Lacerta agilis) werden besonders bei überfahrenen Tieren immer wieder festgestellt. Zur Entstehung dieses Phänomens gab es bislang jedoch nur Spekula- tionen. In vorliegender Arbeit wurde der Verlauf des Farbumschlages der ventralen Hautbereiche von einem blassen Hellgrün nach Schwarzblau an einer frisch tot aufgefundenen männlichen Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) beobachtet und fotografisch dokumentiert. Dabei sind sowohl Zeitverlauf als auch klimatische Verhältnisse erfasst und in die Diskussion einbezogen worden. Die Ergebnisse sprechen dafür, dass es sich bei der Ursache dieser Verfärbung und Verdunklung in erster Linie um einen physikalischen Prozess handelt, welcher aufgrund von Dehydration des Inte- gumentes Änderungen im Reflexionsspektrum der Iridophoren hervorruft. Durch die Inkubation eines Hautstückes in hypotonischem Milieu (Aqua dest.) wurde zwar hinsichtlich der Helligkeit eine weitgehende Reversibilität des Vorganges festgestellt, während der blaue Farbton jedoch bestehen blieb. Für den Verlust des Grüntones scheinen physiologische und/oder chemische Modifikationen der Lipochrome bzw. Lipophoren ausschlaggebend und so in das Gesamtgeschehen involviert zu sein. Die in Frage kommenden Effekte und Vorgänge wurden anhand verschiedener Quellen ermittelt und ausführlich diskutiert.
Ravelo, A.J.F. & Reyes, J.C.R. (2021) -
Cats have accompanied humans since they were domesticated, spreading and settling in a large number of islands where they modify environments and prey on native species. In the Canary Islands, several studies have shown that cat’s prey on native species, including Critically Endangered species such as the giant lizards of Tenerife (Gallotia intermedia), La Gomera (G. bravoana) and El Hierro (G. simonyi). This study focuses on the trophic ecology of the cat in Montaña de Guaza, where a population of the giant lizard of Tenerife is located. The current results show important changes in the diet of this alien species at this area in relation to the obtained by others author in 2004. The main changes detected are the low level of consumption of mammals and the high levels of birds and lizards. These changes seem to be a direct consequence of a low density of rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), the main prey at the different habitats of Canary Islands, probably due to the rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) incidence. The high consumption of reptiles detected in this study could explain the reduction of both distribution area and number of giant lizards at this locality.
Ravkin, Y.S. & Bogomolova, I.N. & Chesnokova, S.V. (2010) -
Distributions of amphibian and reptile faunas were separately delimited on a 1:20 000 000 vegetation map of Northern Eurasia divided into 245 10-degree-longitudinal segments of native subzone within the USSR borders as of 1990. All reptile and amphibian species recorded in every segment were listed, and the Jaccard indices were calculated, and the similarity matrix was studied with cluster analysis. Hierarchic classifications were made: the amphibian one consisting of 3 faunistic regions, divided into 4 subregions, 7 biologic provinces, and 23 districts. The reptile classification includes 4 faunistic regions, 7 subregions, 18 provinces, and 14 districts. The reptile classification has 1.5 times more provincial and district subdivisions than amphibian one. Environmental factors correlating with faunistic nonuniformity were revealed. Our amphibian and reptile schemes are 1.9 and 3.5 times more informative than those proposed earlier and account for 75 and 91% of variance in the faunal similarity coefficient of specific areas, respectively (multiple correlation coefficients 0.87 and 0.95). Environmental factors can explain 84 and 93% of faunistic nonuniformity (correlation coefficients 0.95 and 0.96).
Ravkin, Y.S. & Tsybulin, S.M. & Kuranova, V.N. & Borisovich, O.B. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Shamgynova, R.R. (2006) -
Ravn, P. (1997) -
Ray, J. (1843) -
Raynaud, A. (1989) -
Cytosine arabinofuranoside, a potent inhibitor of D N A synthesis, administered into the egg of Lacerta viridis at different stages of its development induced various limb reductions, particularly digital reductions. At stages of 9 to 11 days of incubation, this agent inhibits the formation or arrests the growth of certain digital rays in the autopod of the limb. Similarities between the pattern of experimentally induced and that of the naturally realized digital reductions in serpentiform reptiles are brought to light, as well as the similarities between the early stages of the ontogenesis of the limb ithe two cases. This comparative study leads to the suggestion that after the retrogression of the apical ridge, a transitory arrest of the D N A synthesis in the mesoblastic cells of the limb bud, at definite stages of the embryonic development might play a role in the terminal stages of the evolutionary regression of the limb, in serpentiform reptiles.
Raynaud, A. (1994) -
Raynaud, A. & Adrian, M. (1975) -
Raynaud, A. & Adrian, M. & Kouprach, S. (1974) -
Raynaud, A. & Adrian,M. (1976) -
Raynaud, A. & Bonnet, L. & Clergue-Gazeau, M. (1992) -
Raynaud, A. & Chandola, A. (1969) -
Raynaud, A. & Clairambault, P. (1978) -
Raynaud, A. & Gasc, J.-P. & Renous, S. & Pieau, C. (1975) -
Raynaud, A. & Okuzumi, H. & Kouprach, S. (1974) -
Raynaud, A. & Pieau, C. (1972) -
Raynaud, A. & Raynaud, J. (1966) -
Raynaud, A. & Raynaud, J. & Collenot, G. & Collenot, A. (1967) -
Raynaud, A. & Raynaud, J.-L. (1999) -
Raynaud, A. & Renous, S. & Gasc, J.-P. & Clergue-Gazeau, M. (1990) -
L`étude du squelette d`embryons à terme et de nouveau-nés d`orvet (Anguis fiagilis, L.) et de lézard vert (Lacerta viridis, Laur.) montre une constance dans les rapports entre la scapula et un segment vertébral précis. Ceci conduit à admettre que la 3e vertèbre cervicale de l`orvet est homologue à la 5e vertèbre cervicale du lézard vert. La région cervicale de l`orvet comporterait donc 6 vertèbres et celle du lézard vert, 8. L`étude histologique de jeunes embryons de ces deux espèces suggère que 2 somites supplémentaires prennent part, chez l`orvet, à la formation de la plaque parachordale. Ceci expliquerait la différence de 2 vertèbres trouvée au niveau de la région cervicale. Chez l`orvet, comme chez le lézard vert, le nerf hypoglosse est formé par les 5 racines ventrales des premiers nerfs occipitaux. Chez Lacerta viridis, le premier nerf spinal, qui peut ici être considéré comme un premier nerf cervical, rejoint pour partie l`hypoglosse; par contre, chez Anguis fragilis, ce nerf est incorporé à la région occipitale et gagne seulement la région de l`ébauche du membre antérieur.
Raynaud, A. & Vasse, J. (1970) -
Raynauf, A. & Pieau, C. (1969) -
Raynaus, A. (2012) -
This article details the captive conditions and the methods of reproduction for a lizard scarcely bred in captivity. (Sauria : Lacertidae) : Acanthodactylus boscianus (DAUDIN, 1802).
Raynor, R.G. (1989) -
Razzetti, E & Bonini, L. & Andreone, F. (2001) -
Common Italian names of the amphibians and reptiles present in the geographic Italy are proposed. We analysed a large set of bibliography in order to assess a list of Italian common names used and we proposed the utilization of a single name, also in view of the forthcoming publication of the distribution atlas of the Italian herpetofauna. The criteria used to assign such names follow in general the current use, the possibility to clearly distinguish similar species, geographic and linguistic parameters.
Razzetti, E. & Msuya, C.A. (2002) -
Reading, C.J. & Jofré, G.M. (2016) -
Cattle grazing is being used increasingly by landowners and statutory conservation bodies to manage heathlands in parts of mainland Europe and in the UK, where it is called `conservation grazing`. Between 2010 and 2013, cattle were excluded from six hectares of lowland heath, in southern England, that had been subject to annual summer cattle grazing between May 1997 and autumn 2009. Changes in grass snake Natrix natrix, common lizard Zootoca vivipara, slow worm Anguis fragilis and sand lizard Lacerta agilis numbers were recorded annually in the ungrazed area and in a four hectare area of heathland adjacent to it that continued to be grazed. The number of grass snake, common lizard and slow worm sightings were significantly higher in the ungrazed heath than the grazed heath and were associated with increased habitat structure, resulting principally from increased height and cover of grasses, particularly Molinia caerulea. Conversely, there was no significant difference in the number of adult sand lizard sightings between the grazed and ungrazed heath though sighting frequency was inversely correlated with both grass and grass litter cover. Our results suggest that the use of cattle grazing as a management tool on lowland heath is detrimental to grass snake, slow worm and common lizard populations but may be less so to adult sand lizards. Although newborn slow worms and common lizards were observed throughout the study area, significantly fewer were found in the grazed areas than the ungrazed areas. The absence of newborn grass snakes and sand lizards in the grazed areas suggests that successful breeding had not occurred in these areas.
Real, R. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Fahd, S. (1997) -
A biogeographical classification of reptiles in the Riff region (northern Morocco, Africa) was carried out to look for shared distribution patterns, here termed chorotypes. Baroni-Urbani & Buser’s similarity index was applied to the presence/absence data of reptiles in 10
Reboredo-Fernández, A. & Ares-Mazás, E. & Galán, P. & Caccio, S.M. & Gómez-Couso (2017) -
Giardia duodenalis is a zoonotic parasite that infects the gut of a wide range of vertebrates, including numerous wildlife species. However, little is known about this protozoan parasite in reptiles. Fecal samples from 31 wild lizards were collected in Galicia (northwest Spain) and screened for the presence of Giardia by PCR amplification and sequencing of the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region in the ribosomal unit. This allowed detection of the parasite in 5 samples (16.1%), and enabled identification of G. duodenalis assemblage A2 in two samples of Iberian rock lizard (Iberolacerta monticola), G. duodenalis assemblage B in other two samples of I. monticola, and G. duodenalis assemblage E in one sample of Bocage`s wall lizard (Podarcis bocagei). The results obtained after PCR amplification and sequencing of the SSU-rDNA gene confirmed the presence of G. duodenalis assemblage A in two samples of I. monticola. This is the first report of G. duodenalis in free-living lizards, although further studies are needed to distinguish between actual infection and mechanical dissemination of cysts. The detection of zoonotic and livestock-specific assemblages of G. duodenalis demonstrates the wide environmental contamination by this parasite, possibly due to human activities.
Recio, P. & Rodriguez-Ruiz, G. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2021) -
Animals often face situations that require quantity discrimination for decision-making. Differentiating between more and less amounts might be adaptative in different contexts such as in social relationships, navigation, or foraging. However, feeding close to conspecifics might change foraging behavior decisions due to hanges in predation risk perception and competition for resources. Here, we tested the quantity judgment abilities of foraging rock lizards (Iberolacerta cyreni) in a spontaneous choice test between 5 and 10 cricket prey. Lizards tested had been previously housed alone or in a group to examine how social experience affected foraging decisions. Our results showed that “grouped” lizards had greater foraging activity than “solitary” lizards. Furthermore, all lizards demonstrated some ability to discriminate between the two amounts of prey. These results reveal the capability of quantity judgments in rock lizards and also that foraging decisions may be modulated by the previous social experience.
Recio, P. & Rodriguez-Ruiz, G. & Martin, J. (2020) -
An essential part of foraging ecology is to understand the processes of detection, recognition and discriminationof prey, as well as the sensorial modalities involved. Often, predators do not rely on a single sensory system but on multipleinteracting senses. Specifically, lizards mainly use vision and vomerolfaction for prey pursuit. Here, we used an experimentalapproach to study how the Carpetan rock lizard,Iberolacerta cyreni, responds to different types of stimuli (chemical, visual,or both combined) from two prey species. The number of individuals approaching the prey and the number of attacks differedbetween treatments, however, we did not find differences in latency time, number of individuals attacking the prey or numberof tongue flicks. Our results suggested that visual cues combined with chemical stimuli enhanced detection of both preyspecies and that prey discrimination occurred posteriorly and independently of using any or both types of stimuli.
Recio, P. & Rodriguez, G. & Ruiz, F. & Martin, J. (2018) -
Recknagel, H. & Carruthers, M. & Yurchenko, A.A. & Nokhbatolfoghahai, M. & Kmenos, N.A. & Bain, M.M. & Elmer, K.R. (2021) -
All amniotes reproduce either by egg-laying (oviparity), which is ancestral to vertebrates or by live-bearing (viviparity), which has evolved many times independently. However, the genetic basis of these parity modes has never been resolved and, consequently, its convergence across evolutionary scales is currently unknown. Here, we leveraged natural hybridizations between oviparous and viviparous common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) to describe the functional genes and genetic architecture of parity mode and its key traits, eggshell and gestation length, and compared our findings across vertebrates. In these lizards, parity trait genes were associated with progesterone-binding functions and enriched for tissue remodelling and immune system pathways. Viviparity involved more genes and complex gene networks than did oviparity. Angiogenesis, vascular endothelial growth and adrenoreceptor pathways were enriched in the viviparous female reproductive tissue, while pathways for transforming growth factor were enriched in the oviparous. Natural selection on these parity mode genes was evident genome-wide. Our comparison to seven independent origins of viviparity in mammals, squamates and fish showed that genes active in pregnancy were related to immunity, tissue remodelling and blood vessel generation. Therefore, our results suggest that pre-established regulatory networks are repeatedly recruited for viviparity and that these are shared at deep evolutionary scales.
Recknagel, H. & Elmer, K.R. (2019) -
Live-bearing reproduction (viviparity) has evolved from egg-laying (oviparity) independently many times and most abundantly in squamate reptiles. Studying life-history trade-offs between the two reproductive modes is an inherently difficult task, as most transitions to viviparity are evolutionarily old and/or are confounded by environmental effects. The common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) is one of very few known reproductively bimodal species, in which some populations are oviparous and others viviparous. Oviparous and viviparous populations can occur in sympatry in the same environment, making this a unique system for investigating alternative life-history trade-offs between oviparous and viviparous reproduction. We find that viviparous females exhibit larger body size, smaller clutch sizes, a larger reproductive investment, and a higher hatching success rate than oviparous females. We find that offspring size and weight from viviparous females was lower compared to offspring from oviparous females, which may reflect space constraints during pregnancy. We suggest that viviparity in common lizards is associated with increased reproductive burden for viviparous females and speculate that this promoted the evolution of larger body size to create more physical space for developing embryos. In the context of life-history trade-offs in the evolution of viviparity, we suggest that the extent of correlation between reproductive traits, or differences between reproductive modes, may also depend on the time since the transition occurred.
Recknagel, H. & Harvey, W.T. & Layton, M. & Elmer, K.R. (2023) -
Background: Animals select and interact with their environment in various ways, including to ensure their physiology is at its optimal capacity, access to prey is possible, and predators can be avoided. Often conflicting, the balance of choices made may vary depending on an individual’s life-history and condition. The common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) has egg-laying and live-bearing lineages and displays a variety of dorsal patterns and colouration. How colouration and reproductive mode affect habitat selection decisions on the landscape is not known. In this study, we first tested if co-occurring male and female viviparous and oviparous common lizards differ in their microhabitat selection. Second, we tested if the dorsal colouration of an individual lizard matched its basking site choice within the microhabitat where it was encountered, which could be related to camouflage and crypsis. -- Results: We found that site use differed from the habitat otherwise available, suggesting lizards actively choose the composition and structure of their microhabitat. Females were found in areas with more wood and less bare ground compared to males; we speculate that this may be for better camouflage and reducing predation risk during pregnancy, when females are less mobile. Microhabitat use also differed by parity mode: viviparous lizards were found in areas with more density of flowering plants, while oviparous lizards were found in areas that were wetter and had more moss. This may relate to differing habitat preferences of viviparous vs. oviparous for clutch lay sites. We found that an individual’s dorsal colouration matched that of the substrate of its basking site. This could indicate that individuals may choose their basking site to optimise camouflage within microhabitat. Further, all individuals were found basking in areas close to cover, which we expect could be used to escape predation. -- Conclusions: Our study suggests that common lizards may actively choose their microhabitat and basking site, balancing physiological requirements, escape response and camouflage as a tactic for predator avoidance. This varies for parity modes, sexes, and dorsal colourations, suggesting that individual optimisation strategies are influenced by inter-individual variation within populations as well as determined by evolutionary differences associated with life history.
Recknagel, H. & Jacobs, A. & Herzyk, P. & Elmer, K.R. (2015) -
Research in evolutionary biology involving nonmodel organisms is rapidly shifting from using traditional molecular markers such as mtDNA and microsatellites to higher throughput SNP genotyping methodologies to address questions in population genetics, phylogenetics and genetic mapping. Restriction site associated DNA sequencing (RAD sequencing or RADseq) has become an established method for SNP genotyping on Illumina sequencing platforms. Here, we developed a protocol and adapters for double-digest RAD sequencing for Ion Torrent (Life Technologies; Ion Proton, Ion PGM) semiconductor sequencing. We sequenced thirteen genomic libraries of three different nonmodel vertebrate species on Ion Proton with PI chips: Arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus, European whitefish Coregonus lavaretus and common lizard Zootoca vivipara. This resulted in ~962 million single-end reads overall and a mean of ~74 million reads per library. We filtered the genomic data using Stacks, a bioinformatic tool to process RAD sequencing data. On average, we obtained ~11 000 polymorphic loci per library of 6–30 individuals. We validate our new method by technical and biological replication, by reconstructing phylogenetic relationships, and using a hybrid genetic cross to track genomic variants. Finally, we discuss the differences between using the different sequencing platforms in the context of RAD sequencing, assessing possible advantages and disadvantages. We show that our protocol can be used for Ion semiconductor sequencing platforms for the rapid and cost-effective generation of variable and reproducible genetic markers.
Recknagel, H. & Kamenos, N.A. & Elmer, K.R. (2018) -
Dollo’s law of irreversibility states that once a complex trait has been lost in evolution, it cannot be regained. It is thought that complex epistatic interactions and developmental constraints impede the re-emergence of such a trait. Oviparous reproduction (egg-laying) requires the formation of an eggshell and represents an example of such a complex trait. In reptiles, viviparity (live-bearing) has evolved repeatedly but it is highly disputed if oviparity can re-evolve. Here, using up to 194,358 SNP loci and 1,334,760 bp of sequence, we reconstruct the phylogeny of viviparous and oviparous lineages of common lizards and infer the evolutionary history of parity modes. Our phylogeny supports six main common lizard lineages that have been previously identified. We find strong statistical support for a topological arrangement that suggests a reversal to oviparity from viviparity. Our topology is consistent with highly differentiated chromosomal configurations between lineages, but disagrees with previous phylogenetic studies in some nodes. While we find high support for a reversal to oviparity, more genomic and developmental data are needed to robustly test this and assess the mechanism by which a reversal might have occurred.
Recknagel, H. & Layton, M. & Carey, R. & Leitao, H. & Sutherland, M. & Elmer, K.R. (2018) -
The presence of a dark-coloured body colouration polymorphism (melanism) is a pervasive phenomenon in the animal kingdom, particularly in reptiles. We provide the first reporting of melanic individuals in a subspecies of common lizards, Zootoca vivipara carniolica or the Eastern oviparous lineage. Two melanic females were found out of 194 individuals collected. Melanic females did not differ in size or weight from non-melanic females. No melanic individuals were found (N = 134) in the nearby viviparous population. Melanism has been reported in related lineages of Z. vivipara, so the discovery in this sister to all other lineages suggests that it is an ancestral polymorphism. The frequency of melanism varies but other studies also find it is usually very rare (<3%) and may be sex-biased. The processes mediating advantages and disadvantages of melanism in Z. vivipara are unclear and require more research.
Redaktion Die Eidechse (1997) -
Reed, C.A. & Marx, H. (1959) -
Regamey, J. (1935) -
Regamez, J. (1932) -
Regamez, J. (1934) -
Regnér, A. (2017) -
In the outskirts of Malmö, Sweden a small population of sand lizard Lacerta agilis resides in a disused shooting range close to the recreation area known as Husie mosse. This species is listed in the national swedish red list as vulnerable and is declining throughout most of northwestern Europe. It is therefore included in The Habitats Directive, a European Union directive which aims to protect threatened species and habitats. During 2014 and 2016 the habitat in Husie has been subject to a number of conservational measures in order to improve the population’s long-term survival chances. The aim of this study is to examine in which parts of the habitat sand lizards occur and thus gaining more knowledge about which parts of the habitat are the most important from a nature conservation perspective and to create a basis for future surveys. The habitat was divided into 7 areas with varying characteristics and 11 surveys was conducted during spring and early summer of 2016. Throughout the surveys 31 sightings where made, but only in 2 of the 7 areas. The results indicate a strong dominance for particularly one of the areas in the habitat, but future surveys might show a wider distribution throughout the habitat as a result of the conservation measures that was carried out during the spring of 2016. Furthermore, suitable measures for conserving sand lizard populations in habitats adjacent to urban areas are discussed and evaluated.
Reguera Panizo, S. (2015) -
Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Comas, M. & Melero, E. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2014) -
Among all the signals and resources that animals can use in communication, coloration is one of the things that generate more interest. Signals based on coloration can inform about different qualities of the bearer, and to different receptors. Large Psammodromus (Psammodromus algirus) from southeastern Spain shows different chromatic patches in ventral and lateral sides: orange in the commissures, yellow in the gular region, and blue blotches in the flanks. In this work we studied as a whole and in a quantitative way the ventral coloration and pigmentary patches. Moreover, we related these colour characteristics with information about quality and status of the individuals. All the study was done in the framework of an elevational gradient of 2200m a.s.l. The results pointed to ventral coloration and colour badges of P. algirus as social and/or honest signals of the individual’s quality. Colourful ornaments appeared especially during breeding season. Moreover, whereas colour of the commissures and number of ocelli were distinguishing of the sex, the presence of yellow pigmentary patches was likely indicative of age, reproductive maturity, and probably social status. In addition, the pigmentary patches are larger in better condition individuals, and probably signalling fertility (in females), and bit strength (in males). However, being more attractive implies a higher risk of predation. Finally, pigmentary patches were more frequent and bright at highlands. Our results suggest that while some visual signals are under sexual selection (commissures colour, or number of ocelli), others works during agonistic or intrasexual encounters (pigmentary patches area). In conclusion, different badges inform about different individual characteristics, and they are combined to increase the intensity and quality of the information.
Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Melero, E. & Garcia-Mesa, S. & Trenzado, C.E. & Cabrerizo, M.J. & Sanz, A. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2014) -
Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Melero, E. & Garcia-Mesa, S. & Trenzado, C.E. & Cabrerizo, M.J. & Sanz, A. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2015) -
Lizards, as ectotherms, spend much time basking for thermoregulating exposed to solar radiation. Consequently, they are subjected to ultraviolet radiation (UVR), which is the most harmful component of solar radiation spectrum. UVR can provoke damages, from the molecular to tissue level, even cause death. Photooxidation triggered by UVR produces reactive oxidative species (ROS). When antioxidant machinery cannot combat the ROS concentration, oxidative stress occurs in the organisms. Given that UVR increases with elevation, we hypothesised that lizards from high elevations should be better adapted against UVR than lizards from lower elevations. In this work, we test this hypothesis in Psammodromus algirus along an elevation gradient (three elevational belts, from 300 to 2500 m above sea level). We ran an experiment in which lizards from each elevation belt were exposed to 5-hour doses of UVR (UV-light bulb, experimental group) or photosynthetically active radiation (white-light bulb, control group) and, 24 h after the exposure, we took tissue samples from the tail. We measured oxidative damage (lipid and protein peroxidation) and antioxidant capacity as oxidative-stress biomarkers. We found no differences in oxidative stress between treatments. However, consistent with a previous work, less oxidative damage appeared in lizards from the highlands. We conclude that UVR is not a stressor agent for P. algirus; however, our findings suggest that the lowland environment is more oxidative for lizards. Therefore, P. algirus is well adapted to inhabit a large elevation range, and this would favour the lizard in case it ascends in response to global climate change.
Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2014) -
Altitudinal gradients offer a good opportunity to study organisms` adaptations to clinal environmental variables. Regarding altitude, the most influential variables on organisms are temperature and ultraviolet (UV) solar radiation, the first decreasing and the second increasing with altitude. Both variables affect ectotherms` biology, as ectotherms depend on environmental temperature for thermoregulation, frequently being heliotherms. Here, we studied dorsal coloration in the lizard Psammodromus algirus (Linnaeus, 1758) along a wide altitudinal gradient (2200 m) in Sierra Nevada (south-east Spain). We hypothesize that the skin will be darker with altitude, i.e. in environments with lower temperatures and higher UV radiation intensity. Results show that individual dorsal colorations became darker at high altitude. We propose two non-mutually exclusive explanations for this result: (1) darker dorsal surface would favour faster warming at high altitudes, where temperature is lower, and (2) darker dorsal surface would protect against UV radiation, stronger at high altitudes. We found significant relationships between both temperature and UV radiation and population dorsal darkness, giving mixed support for the two explanations. Moreover, dorsal hue was positively correlated with substrate hue, suggesting that hue evolved to maximize crypsis. Our study therefore suggests that geographical variation in dorsal coloration in this lizard is adaptive, and darkness coloration might have evolved in response to adverse conditions (low temperature and high UV radiation) at high altitudes.
Reguera, S. & Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Trenzado, C.E. & Sanz, A. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2014) -
Oxidative stress is considered one of the main ecological and evolutionary forces. Several environmental stressors vary geographically and thus organisms inhabiting different sites face different oxidant environments. Nevertheless, there is scarce information about how oxidative damage and antioxidant defences vary geographically in animals. Here we study how oxidative stress varies from lowlands (300–700 m asl) to highlands (2200–2500 m asl) in the lizard Psammodromus algirus. To accomplish this, antioxidant enzymatic activity (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione transferase, DT-diaphorase) and lipid peroxidation were assayed in tissue samples from the lizards` tail. Lipid peroxidation was higher in individuals from lowlands than from highlands, indicating higher oxidative stress in lowland lizards. These results suggest that environmental conditions are less oxidant at high elevations with respect to low ones. Therefore, our study shows that oxidative stress varies geographically, which should have important consequences for our understanding of geographic variation in physiology and life-history of organisms
Regulez Fernández, O. (1988) -
Rehák, I. (2015) -
The grounds of Prague Zoo are home to an important population of the European Green lizard Lacerta viridis, which is one of the most threatened species in the Czech Republic. Although generally thought of as common across some of its range, the Green lizard is recorded as critically endangered by legislative regulations in the Czech Republic and is on local Red Data Lists in Germany, although the species is thought to be extinct in other parts of its range. Conservation management is necessary to guarantee the survival of the Green lizard population at Prague Zoo and to coordinate conservation measures with the development of the Zoo site. A detailed conservation-research study was carried out on a model population at the ‘Tiché údolí’ site to obtain the necessary knowledge to establish an appropriate management programme for the Green lizard population at the Zoo. A comprehensive action plan for European Green lizard conservation will be launched at Prague Zoo in 2015.
Rehak, I. & Fischer, D. & Kratochvil, L. & Rovatsos, M. (2022) -
The northernmost population of the Balkan wall lizards, Podarcis tauricus (Pallas, 1814) was recently discovered in the Czech Republic. We studied genetic variability in a mitochondrial marker cytochrome b to shed light on the origin of this remote population. We detected three unique haplotypes, close to those occurring in the populations of Podarcis tauricus from central/north Balkans and Hungary. Our data exclude the hypothesis of a single founder (a randomly or intentionally introduced pregnant female or her progeny) of the Czech population and indicate a native, autochthonous origin of the population or recent introduction/range expansion.
Rehak, I. & Osborne, D.J. (1988) -
Records on distribution of 34 species of Reptiles and of 2 species of Amphibians are given on recent distribution of Egyptian herpetofauna. If compared with faunistical records given by Marx (1968) and Werner (1983) the total of 24 species is recorded from areas given also by these authors. For 12 species records from other areas are given, especially for the Red Sea area, Upper Egypt and Nubia. The records include data on the species very rarely referred in the literature from the Egypt, e. g. Dermochelys coriacea, Eremias mucronata, Dasypeltis scabra, Walterinnesia aegyptia; on the endangered forms, e. g. Crocodylus niloticus, Chelonia mydas, Eretmochelys imbricata, Varanus griseus, Varanus niloticus, Uromastyx aegyptius, Eryx colubrinus, Eryx jaculus; and the data giving the evidence of the wider distribution of several species if compared with literature data, e. g. Coluber rogersi, Psammophis aegyptius, Echis coloratus. Data on the distribution of Egyptian herpetofauna are relatively richer in Lower Egypt, and very scanty for Upper Egypt and Nubia. In the latter of interest is the situation in Nubian lake area, where for instance after construction of the High Dam large unsettled areas occur, and a situation-remains convenient for existence of such great forms as Nile Crocodiles.
Rehman, H. & Ahmed, S.I. & Fakhri, S. (2002) -
Hawks bay area is an important breeding ground of Fringe-Toad sand lizard (Acanthodactylus cantoris cantons). This work was intended to study the habitat, home range and growth of the species. The study was based on 48 visits. During the whole study period 240 specimens of Acanthodactylus cantoris cantoris were captured to find its home range and growth rate. The recaptured specimens were also examined from time to time.
Rehmann, D. (2011) -
Reichelt, Julius (1898) -
Reichenbach (1837) -
Reichenow, E. (1913) -
Reichholf, J.H. (2005) -
Reichling, H.J. (1995) -
Reichling, H.J. (1996) -
Reider, J.E. von & Hahn, C.W. (1832) -
Reijnders - van de Reijdt, A.G.M. (1979) -
Reijst, A.T. van (1954) -
Reina, V. & Spadola, F. & Morici, M. & Sgroi, P. & Marcianò, A. (2017) -
In this short note are described some reports of a complete melanism in four Italian Wall Lizards (Podarcis siculus), recorded in Southern Italy and in Sicily Island. Moreover is shortly described the literature of the countless sightings of melanism in the genus Podarcis.
Reinhardt, K. & Möller, S. (1996) -
In einer Literaturübersicht wurden elf Eidechsenarten der Familien Lacertidae, Agamidae, Scincidae, Gekkonidae und Iguanidae als Räuber adulter Libellen gefunden. Adulte Libellen repäsentieren gewöhnlich weniger als 1 % der Beutetiere, können aber in bis zu 5 % der Proben Vorkommen.
Reisinger, E. (1960) -
Reiss, G. (1961) -
Rekum, M. van (1954) -
Rekum, M. van (1963) -
Remacle, A. (2018) -
First results of an operation to safeguarda railway population of sand lizard(Lacerta agilisL., 1758)in Wallonia (Belgium) –In the framework of an important modernisation work, a conservation operation focusing on the Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis) was carried out on a 4 km segment of the Namur-Arlon railway line, at Arlon. In 2015, 194 individuals were caught using different methods and translocated into three enclosures adjacent to the railway line. In 2016 and 2017, about 271 lizards were either released at their original site (155) or spontaneously freed after opening of the enclosures (± 116 in 2017).The difficulties and problems encountered are precised. The global assessment of the operation, the first carried out in Wallonia for this species, can be evaluated only after a monitoring over at least five years.
Remacle, A. & Jacob, J.-P. (2009) -
Remacle, G. (1935) -
Remón, N. & Galán, P. & Naveira, H. (2012) -
The fragmentation and destruction of natural habitats by human intervention is producing a continuous and inexorable reduction of the size of populations in multitude of species all over the world. Small and isolated populations face higher extinction risks, due to demographic and environmental stochasticity, and also because of several genetic threats, among which inbreeding is considered the most important one. For many of these species, the extinction of a population is an irreversible event, so that determining the immediate importance of these risk factors and understanding their interactions is crucial for conservation plans. Iberolacerta monticola is a small lacertid endemic to the northwestern Iberian Peninsula, distributed mainly across moderate/high altitude mountainous regions. Some populations are found nearly at sea-level, though, in fluvial valleys with relict Atlantic forests, in the severely fragmented western part of its range. One of them has been dramatically reduced over the last 30 years, and presently is on the brink of extinction. Using microsatellite nuclear markers, we obtained different measures of genetic variation at this site, together with demographic and breeding data. Both the level of heterozygosity and the number of alleles per locus indicate that the level of variation in this population is comparatively high, and the average inbreeding coefficient is very low. Individuals appear healthy and long-lived, and are related by a few different lines of descent. These findings are discussed in the context of current theories and experimental evidence of associative overdominance and purging of the genetic load of populations, with special emphasis on the evolutionary potential of recovery of small evolutionary units.
Remón, N. & Galán, P. & Vila, M. & Arribas, O. & Naveira, H. (2013) -
Aim The study of the factors that influence population connectivity and spatial distribution of genetic variation is crucial for understanding speciation and for predicting the effects of landscape modification and habitat fragmentation, which are considered severe threats to global biodiversity. This dual perspective is obtained from analyses of subalpine mountain species, whose present distribution may have been shaped both by cyclical climate changes over ice ages and anthropogenic perturbations of their habitats. Here, we examine the phylogeography, population structure and genetic diversity of the lacertid lizard Iberolacerta monticola, an endemism considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in several populations. Location Northwestern quadrant of the Iberian Peninsula. Methods We analyzed the mtDNA variation at the control region (454 bp) and the cytochrome b (598 bp) loci, as well as at 10 nuclear microsatellite loci from 17 populations throughout the distribution range of the species. Results According to nuclear markers, most sampling sites are defined as distinct, genetically differentiated populations, and many of them show traces of recent bottlenecks. Mitochondrial data identify a relatively old, geographically restricted lineage, and four to six younger geographically vicariant sister clades, whose origin may be traced back to the mid-Pleistocene revolution, with several subclades possibly associated to the mid-Bruhnes transition. Geographic range fragmentation of one of these clades, which includes lowland sites, is very recent, and most likely due to the accelerated loss of Atlantic forests by human intervention. Main Conclusion Altogether, the data fit a “refugia within refugia” model, some lack of pattern uniformity notwithstanding, and suggest that these mountains might be the cradles of new species of Iberolacerta. However, the changes operated during the Holocene severely compromise the long-term survival of those genetic lineages more exposed to the anthropogenic perturbations of their habitats.
Remón, N. & Vila, M. & Galán, P. & Naveira, H. (2008) -
Fourteen polymorphic microsatellite loci are described for the Iberian rock lizard, Iberol- acerta monticola. Genetic variation in a sample of 20 individuals from Piornedo (north- western Spain) was quantified both by the number of alleles per locus, which ranged from six to 13, and by the expected frequency of heterozygotes under random mating (heterozy- gosity), which ranged from 0.761 to 0.902. Single locus and global exclusion probabilities were also computed, and indicate a high power of these markers for paternity assignments and mating system studies of I. monticola. All the analysed loci were also polymorphic in Iberolacerta galani, but only seven in Zootoca vivipara.
Renan, S. & Bouskila, A. (2009) -
Renan, S. & Bouskila, A. (2010) -
Rendahl, H. (1933) -
Renet, J. (2013) -
Two cases of bifurcated tail are reported in the Ocellated Lizard Timon lepidus lepidus in the Crau plain (Bouches-du-Rhône).
Renet, J. & Deso, G. & Gerriet, O. & Diebolt, S. & Marchand, M.-A. & Tatin, L. (2018) -
Dans le contexte actuel de changements globaux, la distribution des espèces et l’image que nous en avons représentent un enjeu majeur en écologie. Il arrive pourtant que cette image soit déformée par des postulats et une distribution des prospections (ou des jeux de données) non standardisées et ne prenant pas en compte la détection des espèces. Au sein de l’herpétofaune française, le Lézard ocellé Timon lepidus (Daudin, 1802) est un lacertidé considéré dans la littérature comme n’occupant que très sporadiquement les habitats au-delà de 600-700 m d’altitude. Une investigation des données naturalistes historiques présentes dans la base de données Silene-PACA (SINP PACA) et la compilation de celles collectées plus récemment en altitude dans le sud-est des Alpes françaises (départements des Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence et Alpes-Maritimes) exposent une situation plus contrastée. En effet, 37,5 % des données «fortuites» récoltées jusqu’en 2005 vont au-delà de 750 m (11,1 % au-delà de 1000 m d’altitude) et 35,2 % des données postérieures à 2005 vont au-delà de 750 m (10,6 % au-delà de 1000 m d’altitude). À partir de 2009, les prospections « ciblées » sur l’espèce en altitude attestent d’un taux de visite positive de 63,6 % de 750 à 999 m et 62,5 % à partir de 1000 m. Il semble donc nécessaire d’investir plus intensément les habitats ouverts d’altitude et d’intégrer ces données dans les divers documents d’objectifs. L’occurrence du Lézard ocellé dans les secteurs mon- tagneux implique également de prendre en compte l’impact des menaces spécifiques sur ces zones, comme la recolonisation forestière.
Renet, J. & Deso, G. & Marchand, M.-A. (2018) -
Renet, J. & Dokhelar, T. & Thirion, F. & Tatin, L. & Pernollet, C.A. & Bourgault, L. (2022) -
The knowledge of a species’ spatial ecology is essential for its conservation as it helps to implement targeted protection measures to suitable habitats. In 2011 and 2013, two French populations of ocellated lizards Timon lepidus were monitored through very high frequency (VHF) radio telemetry in two distinct Mediterranean habitats: a 77 ha scrubland (n = 8) and a 1590 ha semi-arid steppe (n = 11) corresponding to a heterogeneous and homogeneous habitat respectively. The variability in spatial estimates for the seasonal habitat use of the ocellated lizard was compared within the two sites using the Autocorrelated Kernel Density Estimation (AKDE). Recursive movement patterns and spatial repartition of shelters were further assessed to study the habitat influence on the species’ space use. No significant differences between sexes or sites were identified in the computed AKDE ranges. This inter-site approach demonstrated higher shelter revisits in core-areas than in the rest of estimated home ranges for both sites. A higher shelter density was observed in the core areas of the lizards than in the rest of their home-ranges for the Mediterranean scrubland but not for the semi-arid steppe. Such findings might attest to the species’ adaptive capabilities within two distinct Mediterranean ecosystems.
Renet, J. & Dokhelar, T. & Tortosa, T. & Monnet, C. (2024) -
Home range and spatiotemporal activity are often lacking for small vertebrates that are difficult to mark individually and to monitor over sufficiently long-time scales to collect reliable information. This is particularly the case for the Edward’s Sand Racer Psammodromus edwarsianus, a small Mediterranean lizard that is almost threatened with extinction in France. In order to fill these gaps, we conducted a four-year mark-recapture survey (2019-2022) carried out on a 0.5ha quadrat composed of two distinct habitats of equivalent surface area (open rocky area and Aleppo pine forest). We estimated the 95% and 50% (core area) spring home ranges for 10 adult individuals (5 males and 5 females) using the Autocorrelated Kernel Density Estimation method. We assessed daily activity patterns of P. edwardsianus and tested whether these differed between the two habitat types using a Generalized Linear Mixed Model. The surface of spring home range varied greatly between individuals (for females, 95% AKDE range from 733m2 to 3340m2 and 50% AKDE range from 158m2 to 546m2. For males, 95% AKDE range from 4556m2to 7434m2and 50% AKDE range from 779m2 to 1658m2), and reached up to 290 times the value formerly reported in the literature with significantly larger spring home ranges for males than females. The activity of P. edwardsianus did not vary significantly between the two habitats, and regardless of habitat type, activity was highest in the morning and late afternoon. The data collected have enabled us to gain a better understanding of the displacement potential and the spatiotemporal activity patterns of P. edwardsianus. This study also provide methodological elements and advice for optimizing the monitoring of this species.
Renet, J. & Tatin, L. (2010) -
Rennack, M. (2021) -
Rennack, M. (2024) -
Rennack, M. & Hänel, K. & Menke, N. & Zucchi, H. (2025) -
Ein möglichst umfangreiches Verständnis der Mikrohabitatnutzung ist eine der wesentlichen Grundlagen, auf der ein zielgerichtetes Habitatmanagement fußt. Dabei bedarf es insbesondere bei weitverbreiteten Arten wie der Zauneidechse einer lebensund naturräumlich differenzierten Betrachtung. Da über die Mikrohabitatnutzvng verschiedener Altersklassen der Zauneidechse vergleichsweise wenig bekannt ist, war es das Ziel festzustellen, ob und inwiefern Unterschiede zwischen adulten, subadulten und juvenilen Tieren auftreten. 2022 und 2023 wurde die Mikrohabitatnutzung einer individuenstarken Zauneidechsen-Population in der Mtinsteraner Emsaue analysiert. Dazu wurden 216 Mikrohabitate kartiert und mithilfe verschiedener statistischer Verfahren (NMDS, Shannon-Diversiy-Index, Kruskal-Wallis- und Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney- Tests) ausgewertet. Die Analysen offenbarten, dass sich die Mikrohabitatnutzung verschiedener Altersklassen insbesondere in Bezugauf die Krautschicht, die Streu und das Totholz unterschied. Zauneidechsen nutzten mit zunehmendem Alter Bereiche mit höherer Krautschicht, größeren Totholz- und geringeren Streudeckungen. Zudem wiesen die genutzten Mikrohabitate im Vergleich zu Kontrollmikrohabitaten eine geringere Krautschicht- sowie größere Streu-, Totholz- und Offenbodendeckungen auf. Es konnte festgestellt werden, dass Zauneidechsen Mikrohabitate nutzten, die signifikant heterogener als ihr durchschnittliches Umfeld waren. Die Ergebnisse legen nahe, dass das Management von Zauneidechsen-Habitaten auf die Entwicklung heterogener Mosaike diverser Strukturen abzielen sollte, die den Tieren in sämtlichen Lebensphasen geeignete Bedingungen bieten.
Renoult, J. (2006) -
Renoult, J. (2009) -
Cytoplasmic markers are often used alone to reconstruct phylogenetic and phylogeographic patterns. Evolutionary, demographic and ecological processes that cause these patterns are most often investigated using nuclear markers. However, some mechanisms, like introgressive hybridization, may result in gene histories differing from species histories. Further, genetic consequences of introgressive hybridization may be particularly marked for cytoplasmic markers comparatively to nuclear markers. This is why the reliability of cytoplasmic markers as a tool for pattern reconstruction is currently debated. To evaluate the value of cytoplasmic markers for pattern reconstructions and process studies, we compared, within the species complex of Iberian Wall Lizards Podarcis hispanicus, the evolutionary history inferred from a mitochondrial marker with the history inferred from nuclear markers, and in fig species of section Galoglychia, the history inferred from chloroplast markers with the history inferred from nuclear markers. In both cases, we evidenced several cases of cyto-nuclear discordances caused by ancient events of introgressive hybridization. In the lizard example, discordance was caused by the complete replacement of the mitochondrial lineage of one species, in a large part of its distribution range, by a mitochondrial lineage belonging to another species currently extinct or not described yet. In the Ficus example, congruence between plant chloroplast phylogeny and pollinator phylogeny supports the hypothesis that host shifts are responsible of both cyto-nuclear discordance in plant phylogenies and pollinator-plant phylogenetic incongruence. Both cases demonstrate that, because of introgressive hybridization, cytoplasmic markers are of limited interest to precisely describe phylogenetic and phylogeographic patterns. However, these introgressive hybridization events make cytoplasmic markers useful to investigate processes.
Renoult, J.P. & Geniez, P. & Bacquet, P. & Benoit, L. & Crochet, P.A. (2009) -
Mitochondrial markers are still often used alone to identify evolutionary units, despite widespread evidence for processes such as incomplete lineage sorting or introgressive hybridization that may blur past population history. The combination of mitochondrial DNA data with other sources of information (morphology, nuclear genes) is a powerful tool to reveal when and why mitochondrial markers are potentially misleading. In this study, we evaluate the performance of mtDNA markers to unravel the evolutionary history of Spanish lizards from the Podarcis hispanicus species complex. We first uncover several cases of discordance between morphological and mitochondrial data in delimitation of taxa. To assess the origin of these discordances, we analysed the same populations using several independent nuclear loci. Both morphological and nuclear markers identified the same three evolutionary units in the region, while mitochondrial data revealed four deeply divergent lineages. We suggest here that the most likely scenario to explain this discordance is ancient mitochondrial introgression originating from a fourth evolutionary unit presently absent from the study area. Notably, this resulted in a complete replacement of the original lineage in a large part of the distribution of one of the taxa investigated. We discuss the potential evolutionary scenarios leading to this complete mitochondrial replacement and suggest why the previous studies have failed to recover the correct history of this species complex.
Renoult, J.P. & Geniez, P. & Bacquet, P. & Guillaume, C.P. & Crochet, P.A. (2010) -
Recent genetic works have suggested that the Iberian wall lizard Podarcis hispanicus (Steindachner, 1870) sensu lato is in fact a species complex. Several forms have already been elevated to species rank, including the north-eastern Spanish form alternatively named Podarcis atratus (Boscá, 1916) or P. liolepis (Boulenger, 1905) in different works. However, a recent study has demonstrated that the province of Valencia, where most individuals of the type series of Lacerta muralisvar. liolepis Boulenger, 1905 originate from, is inhabited by populations that are conspecific with the north-eastern Spanish form. Consequently the nomen liolepis has precedence over atratus to designate the north-eastern species of the P. hispanicus complex which should thus bear the name Podarcis liolepis.
Renoult, J.P. & Geniez, P. & Beddek, M. & Crochet, P.-A. (2010) -
In this study, we investigate the identity and origin of a population of Iberian Wall Lizards (Podarcis hispanicus complex) that we recently discovered inside the distribution range of the nominotypical form P. hispanicus. In the field, these animals were clearly identified as different from this species but their identity remained problematic. Using morphological and mitochondrial DNA analyses, we here identify this population as P. vaucheri, which constitutes a significant range extension for this species. Molecular results suggest a North African origin to this population. However, according to morphological results, these individuals are closer to the Spanish morphotype than to the North African morphotypes of P. vaucheri. Taken together, these results suggest a human-mediated introduction as the origin of this population, with local adaptation or phenotypic plasticity responsible of phenotypic convergence.
Reppa, A. & Agori, A.F. & Santikou, P. & Parmakelis, A. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. & Sagonas, K. (2023) -
Ectotherms are vastly affected by climatic conditions as they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature, and changes in their habitat thermal quality could seriously affect their overall biology. To overcome the problems of a thermally unfavorable habitat, lizards need to either adjust their thermoregulatory behavior or respond to directional selection and shift their preferred body temperatures. To assess the impact of habitat thermal quality on the thermoregulatory profile, we studied multiple islet and ‘mainland’ populations of the Skyros wall lizard Podarcis gaigeae, an endemic lacertid to Skyros Archipelago, Greece. We evaluated the effectiveness of thermoregulation (E) using the three main thermal parameters: body (Tb), operative (Te), and preferred (Tpref) temperatures. We first hypothesized that the spatial homogeneity, the scarcity of thermal shelters, and the exposure to higher winds on islets would result in more demanding climate conditions. Second, we anticipated that islet lizards would achieve higher E in response to the lower thermal quality therein. As hypothesized, thermal parameters differed between populations but not in the expected manner. Skyros ‘mainland’ habitats reached higher temperatures, had more intense fluctuations, and were of lower thermal quality. As a result, lizards showed higher accuracy, precision, and effectiveness of thermoregulation. Noteworthy, we found that lizards from different populations have shifted their thermal profile and preferred body temperatures to cope with the particular conditions prevailing in their habitats. The latter supports the labile view on the evolution of thermoregulation.
Rétief, A. (2001) -
Retter, J. (1996) -
Reuss, A. (1834) -
Rey Benayas, J.M. et al (2006) -
A major task related to conservation is to predict if planned infrastructure projects are likely to threaten biodiversity. In this study we investigated the potential impact of planned infrastructure in Spain on amphibian and reptile species, two highly vulnerable groups given their limited dispersal and current situation of population decline. We used distribution data of both groups to identify areas of high herpetofauna diversity, and compared the locations of these areas with the locations of the planned road, high-speed train railway and water reservoir network. Four criteria were used for this identification: species richness, rarity, vulnerability, and a combined index of the three criteria. From a total of 1441 cells of 20!20 km, areas of high diversity were defined as those cells whose ranked values for the different criteria included either all species or all threatened species. The combined index provided the smallest number of cells needed to retain all threatened species (1.7 and 2.6% of the cells for amphibian and reptile species, respectively). Coincidences between these high diversity areas and cells including planned infrastructures - denominated - alert planning units - were 35.4% for amphibians and 31.2% for reptiles. Mitigation of the potential impacts would include actions such as barriers to animal access to roads and railways and ecoducts under these constructions. Our approach provides conservation authorities information that can be used to make decisions on habitat protection. A technique that identifies threats to herpetofauna before they occur is also likely to improve the chance of herpetofauna being protected.
Reyes-Puig, C. & Enriquez-Urzelai, U. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2021) -
Reynvaan, H. (1946) -
Reyst, A.T. (1947) -
Reyst, A.T. (1950) -
Rezazadeh, E. & Hassanzadeh Kiabi, B. & Ahmadzadeh, F. (2010) -
According to recent revision of Lacertidae family by Arnold et al. (2007), two species of Iranolacerta genus are found in Iran: Iranolacerta brandtii and Iranolacerta zagrosica. Both species have limited range of distribution and unknown biological and ecological status. Therefore, in this study a total of 25 Iranolacerta brandtii specimens (10 males, 13 females, and 2 juveniles) were collected from northwest of Iran. First, based on the morphological features including coloration pattern, morphometric measurements and pholidosis characters the species was studied. Then, habitat features and new distribution localities were documented. For the first time, some reproductive aspects, such as clutch size, follicles number, testis length and color are reported. Feeding ecology of this species was investigated through analysis of stomach contents.
Reznitschek, K.P. & Wischniewski, A. & Wischniewski, W.M. (1977) -
Rhimi, W. & Mendoza-Roldan, J. & Aneke, C.I. & Mosca, A. & Otranto, D. & Alastruey-Izquierdo, A. & Cafarchia, C. (2022) -
Reptiles have become popular exotic pets and in some parts of the world, they are used as important source of food, medicines, and materials. Synanthropic lizards are recognized as reservoirs of viruses, bacteria, and parasites but their role in dissemination of zoonotic pathogenic yeasts in the environment was never investigated. Therefore, fecal samples (n=177) from Podarcis siculus (Italian wall lizard), Chalcides ocellatus (Ocellated skink) and Tarentola mauritanica (Moorish gecko) were collected and yeasts were isolated and identified biochemically and molecularly by sequencing the rDNA internal transcribed spacer region (ITS). The phylogenetical relationship of isolated yeast species and their antifungal susceptibility profiles to ten antifungal agents were also assessed. Sixty samples (n=60/177; 33.9%) scored positive for yeasts, with the highest occurrence in C. ocellatus (n=11/17; 64.7%) and the highest variety of species in P. siculus (n=11/12; 91.6%). A total of 364 isolates belonging to Candida, Trichosporon, Saccharomyces and Geotrichum genera were molecularly identified. In particular, Candida albicans (n=160; 44%) followed by Trichosporon coremiiforme (n=44; 12.1%), Pichia kudriavzevii (n=32; 8.8%) and Trichosporon asahii (n=28; 7.7%) were the most frequently isolated species. The phylogenetic tree grouped all representative sequence types within the clade including Candida spp. strains from different geographical areas and from animal species, including human. All tested strains showed high susceptibility to the assayed antifungal drugs. This study suggests the role of lizards as reservoirs and spreaders of zoonotic pathogenic yeasts in the environment. The absence of resistance phenomena in the isolated yeasts might reflect an environment free of azole antifungal pollution or chemicals, suggesting the usefulness of these animals as bio indicators of environment quality.
Ribeiro, M. & Lopes, S. & Dias, G. & Sá-Pinto, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Pinho, C. (2014) -
Ribeiro, R. & Barbosa, D. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. & Carretero, M.A. (2006) -
Ribeiro, R. & Sá-Sousa, P. (2018) -
Exotic animal invasions constitute a major threat to biodiversity worldwide. Our assessment determined the core range occupied by the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) in the urban area of Parque das Nações (Lisbon, Portugal), where it was accidentally introduced two decades ago. Despite the apparent current scenario of non-expansion, the alien species interferes with the local distribution pattern of the native P. virescens, with both lizard species shown to use the available microhabitats differently. The native P. virescens population displays an overall heterogeneous distribution in the urban matrix. On the other hand, the occupancy of the exotic species clusters within the original area of introduction (garden in front of the Lisbon Oceanarium), as well as in adjacent gardens. There, P. siculus replaced the native P. virescens as the only lizard species present. Apparently, there is no known reason there that prevents the alien lizard from colonizing more available geographic area and expanding.
Ribeiro, R.A.V. (2017) -
First assessment on the introduction of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) in Parque das Nações (Lisbon) Currently, animal biological invasions are one of the main threats to biodiversity worldwide and, consequently, one of the biggest problems in nature conservation. Known the introduction of the Italian wall lizard Podarcis siculus in the area of Parque das Nações, Lisbon, were evaluated both the current territorial extent of the introduced individuals and the degree of spatial segregation exerted by the invasive population upon the native species, Podarcis virescens. The obtained results suggest a scenario of non-expansion of the Italian wall lizard beyond the area of known occurrence. However, this interferes with the local distribution pattern of P. virescens. The microhabitats used by both species were also compared in an urban environment with great human density and influence.
Riboulet, N. (2002) -
Ricci, M. (1999) -
Hemoparasites were harvested from 993 individuals belonging to 15 reptilian and 1 amphibian species, from various Italian localities. Hemogregarins were found in 10 reptilian species while a flagellate and microfilariae were found only in Tarentola mauritanica from Lampedusa. For each host species and place of origin the frequencies of hemogregarins are reported and discussed. Longitudinal studies with periodical thin smears were carried out on 5 Tarentola mauritanica, 4 Lacerta viridis, 26 Podarcis filfolensis, 10 Podarcis muralis, 38 Podarcis sicula, 8 Chalcides ocellatus. This material, whose study has not yet been completed, is made available by the author who strongly encourages further investigations on this subject.
Richard, J. & Lapini, L. (1993) -
Richard, J. & Semenzato, M. (1992) -
Richard, J. & Sindaco, R. & Lapini, L. (2006) -
Richard, M. & Losdat, S. & Lecomte, J. & Fraipont, M. de & Clobert, J. (2009) -
Mate choice with regard to genetic similarity has been rarely considered as a dynamic process. We examined this possibility in breeding populations of the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) kept for several years in semi-natural conditions. We investigated whether they displayed a pattern of mate choice according to the genetic similarity and whether it was context-dependent. Mate choice depended on genetic similarity with the partner and also on age and condition. There was no systematic avoidance of inbreeding. Females of intermediate ages, more monogamous, did not mate with genetically similar partners, whereas younger and older females, more polyandrous, did but highest clutch proportions were associated with intermediate values of pair-relatedness. These results indicate dynamic mate choice, suggesting that individuals of different phenotypes select their partners in different ways according to their genetic similarity. We consider our results in the light of diverse and apparently contradictory theories concerning genetic compatibility, and particularly, optimal inbreeding and inclusive fitness.
Richard, M. & Stevens, V.M. & Hénanff, M.L. & Coulon, A. & Öourdais, O. & Clobert, J. (2012) -
Richard, M. & Thorpe, R.S. (2000) -
Richard, M. & Thorpe, R.S. (2001) -
Population phylogeographic studies are generally based solely on mtDNA without corroboration, from an independent segregating unit (i.e., nuclear genes), that the mtDNA gene tree represents the organismal phylogeny. This paper attempts to evaluate the utility of microsatellites for this process by use of the Western Canary Island lacertid (Gallotia galloti) as a model. The geological times of island eruptions are known, and well-supported mtDNA phylogenies exist (corroborated as the organismal phylogeny rather than just a gene tree by nuclear random amplified polymorphic DNAs (RAPDs)). The allelic variation in 12 populations from four islands (representing five haplotype lineages) was investigated in five unlinked microsatellite loci. Analysis of molecular variance showed this data to be highly structured. A series of genetic distances among populations was computed based on both the variance in allele frequency (i.e., Fst related) and the variance in repeat numbers (i.e., Rst related). The genetic distances based on the former were more highly correlated with the mtDNA genetic distances than those based on the latter. All trees based on both models supported the primary division shown by mtDNA and RAPDs, which is dated at ca. 2.8 to 5.6 mybp (depending on calibration of the mtDNA clock) and which could, under the evolutionary species concept, be regarded separate species. This was achieved despite theoretical problems posed by the use of few loci, suspected bottlenecks, and large population sizes. The finer details were less consistently represented. Nevertheless, this study demonstrates that even a small number of microsatellites can be useful in corroborating the deeper divisions of a population phylogeny
Richter, A. (1975) -
Field and intracellular potentials were recorded in the vestibular nuclei of the lizard following stimulation of the ipsi- and contralateral vestibular nerves. The field potentials induced by ipsilateral VIIIth nerve stimulation consisted of an early negative or positive-negative wave (presynaptic component) followed by a slow negativity (transsynaptic component). The spatial distribution of the field potential complex closely paralleled the extension of the vestibular nuclei. Mono- and polysynaptic EPSPs were recorded from vestibular neurons after ipsilateral u nerve stimulation. In some neurons early depolarizations preceded the EPSPs. These potentials may be elicited by electrical transmission. Often spike- like partial responses were superimposed on the EPSPs. I t is assumed that these potentials represent dendritic spikes. Contralateral VIIIth nerve stimulation generated disynaptic and polysynaptic IPSPs in some neurons and EPSPs in others. The possible role of commissural inhibition in phylogeny is discussed. In a group of vestibular neurons stimulation of the ipsilateral VIIIth nerve evoked full action potentials with latencies ranging from 0.25--1.1 msec. These potentials are caused by antidromie activation of neurons which send their axons to the labyrinth.
Richter, D. & Matuschka, F.-R. (2006) -
To determine whether the Lyme disease spirochete Borrelia lusitaniae is associated with lizards, we compared the prevalence and genospecies of spirochetes present in rodent- and lizard-associated ticks at a site where this spirochete frequently infects questing ticks. Whereas questing nymphal Ixodes ricinus ticks were infected mainly by Borrelia afzelii, one-half of the infected adult ticks harbored B. lusitaniae at our study site. Lyme disease spirochetes were more prevalent in sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) and common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) than in small rodents. Although subadult ticks feeding on rodents acquired mainly B. afzelii, subadult ticks feeding on lizards became infected by B. lusitaniae. Genetic analysis confirmed that the spirochetes isolated from ticks feeding on lizards are members of the B. lusitaniae genospecies and resemble type strain PotiB2. At our central European study site, lizards, which were previously considered zooprophylactic for the agent of Lyme disease, appear to perpetuate B. lusitaniae.
Richter, D. & Schneeweiß, N. & Deichsel, G. & Schulte, U. & Matuschka, F.-R. (2025) -
Um die Verbreitung und Infektionsrate (Prävalenz) der Arthropoden-übertragenen Haemoparasiten Karyolysus sp. und Hepatzoorn sp. in Eidechsen-Populationen in Deutschland zu untersuchen, wurde diese in verschiedenen Eidechsenarten (Lacerta agilis, L. viridis, L. trilineata, Podarcis muralis und Zootoca vivipara) in drei Regionen bestimmt. An Eidechsen saugende Zecken wurden auf diese beiden Erreger molekularbiologisch getestet. Insgesamt haben wir 1772 Ixodes ricinus-Zecken von 386 Eidechsen aus 45 Populationen auf das Vorhandensein von Haemoparasiten-DNA untersucht. 21 Populationen (47 %) waren von diesen Haemoparasiten betroffen. Anhand der an Eidechsen parasitierenden Zecken ließ sich ermitteln, dass ein Drittel der untersuchten Eidechsen von Karyolysus lacazei parasitiert wurde und dass etwa jede 30. Eidechse sowohl von K. lacaneii als auch von einer Hepatozoon-Art befallen war. Die Infektionsraten der beiden Haemoparasiten in den Zecken unterschieden sich je nach Eidechsenart, und das Vorkommen der beiden Haemoparasiten variierte regional. Während im Nordosten mit Hepatozoon infizierte Eidechsen rar waren, waren in den von Haemoparasiten betroffenen Populationen ein Drittel der Eidechsen im Südwesten und fast die Hälfte der Eidechsen im Westen mit diesem Erreger infiziert. Sofern die Pathogenität der in dieser Studie nachgewiesenen Haemoparasiten für Eidechsen nicht ausgeschlossen werden kann, sollten potenzielle nachteilige Konsequenzen für die Eidechsen-Populationen bei jeglichen Manipulationen und insbesondere bei Translokationen berücksichtigt werden, um eine Ausbreitung und Verschleppung der Erreger in bisher nicht betroffene Populationen zu vermeiden.
Richter, D. & Schröder, B. & Hartmann, N.K. & Matuschka, F.-R. (2012) -
To determine whether the genospecies composition of Lyme disease spirochetes is spatially stratified, we collected questing Ixodes ricinus ticks in neighboring plots where rodents, birds, and lizards were present as reservoir host and compared the prevalence of various genospecies. The overall prevalence of spirochetes in questing ticks varied across the study site. Borrelia lusitaniae appeared to infect adult ticks in one plot at the same frequency as did Borrelia afzelii in the other plots. The relative density of questing nymphal and adult ticks varied profoundly. Where lizards were exceedingly abundant, these vertebrates seemed to constitute the dominant host for nymphal ticks, contributing the majority of infected adult ticks. Because lizards support solely B. lusitaniae and appear to exclude other genospecies, their narrow genospecies association results in predominance of B. lusitaniae in sites where lizards are abundant, while limiting its spread to the host’s habitat range. To the extent that Central European B. lusitaniae strains are nonpathogenic, the presence of numerous lizards should locally decrease risk of infection for people. Evaluation of regional risk of infection by Lyme disease spirochetes should take the spatial effect of hosts into consideration, which stratify the distribution of specifically infected ticks on a small scale.
Richter, G. & Richter, K. (1991) -
Richter, H. (2013) -
It is reported about the keeping and breeding of Lacerta agilis brevicaudata. Due to strong intraspecific fights between the adult males, it was impossible to keep two males together in the same terrarium. From April until September the lizards are being kept pairwise in an outdoor enclosure. Comparisons between Lacerta agilis brevicaudata and the local subspecies Lacerta agilis argus are made.
Richter, H. (2014) -
The author reports on the construction of an outdoor enclosure for breeding lizards.A constant safety and a good stability of this system, a good accessiblity as well as visual aspects were important factors that were taken into account during planning and building.
Richter, K. (1979) -
Richter, K. (1986) -
Richter, K. (1988) -
Richter, K. (1992) -
Richter, K. (1994) -
First report on a population of Podarcis muralis which was discovered in 1992 in a quarry situated ca. 15 km southeast of Leipzig. In this locality the species occurs sympatrically with Lacerta agilis. The origin of the anirnals is unknown.
Richter, K. (1995) -
Richter, K. (1996) -
Some observations in keeping the scarcley noticed Adolfus jacksoni are described. Showing only few remarkable specialities, breeding of the species was successful afte keeping it in an outdoor terrarium during summer. Some weeks old clutches that were found in November (soil temperature 5°C!) developed well. Growing of the hatchlings was without any problems.
Richter, K. (1998) -
Richter, K. & Ahrens, J. (2018) -
Richter, K. & Mayer, W. (1990) -
New records and ecological observations are given for some greek reptiles: Coluber caspius was found in Kefallinia and Podarcis muralis in Evvia; the occurrence of Tarentola mauriianica is confirmed for Kefallinia. Ecological data are presented concerning Algyroides nigropunctatus from Kefallinia.
Richter, W. von (1973) -
Rico, J. & Berg, E. van den (2000) -
Riddell, A. (1996) -
Rieck, B.-O. (2009) -
Bahnstadt: 1.500 Zaun- und Mauereidechsen vor Beginn der Bauarbeiten umgesiedelt.
Rieck, D. (2011) -
Riedel, K. (1949) -
Riegler, C. & Bader, T. & Kopeczky, R. (2012) -
Riegler, C. & Bader, T. & Kopeczky, R. (2016) -
Der Nordosten Irans, ein faszinierendes Gebiet, einerseits durch die immense Ausdehnung arider (Hoch-) Ebenen und Hügelländer, andererseits durch die überraschende landschaftliche Vielfalt unmittelbar südlich des Kaspischen Meeres. So kontrastieren die beeindruckend dichten Hyrcanischen Wälder und das über 5000 m hohe Elburs-Gebirge die endlosen, staubtrockenen Weiten im Landesinneren. Dementsprechend groß ist auch die dortige Artenvielfalt: Knapp 60 Reptilien- und Amphibienarten konnten im Zuge der 14-tägigen Exkursion auf der 4000 km langen Rundtour beobachtet werden.
Rieppel, O. (1976) -
An analysis of the ontogenesis of the chondrocran¡um gives the following homologies in the skull of Lacerta and Chelydra: Chelydra Lacerta Pila metoptica subiculum infundibuli cartilago hypochiasmatica Pila antotica pila antotica pila accessoriaDorsal border of planum supraseptale part of the taenia marginalis closing the fenestra epioptica dorsally Caudal process of the pila antotica dorsal to the incisura prootica part of the taenia marginalis running from the pila antotica to the ear capsule It is shown that the extracranial position of the cavum epiptericum in Lacerta corresponds to the stage of maximal development of the chondrocranium in Chelydra. But further development brings about a dermal sidewall in the orbitotemporal region, built up by descending parietal flanges which incorporate the epipterygoid. This not only allows the pila antotica to degenerate but also incorporates the cavum in the cranial cavity.
Rieppel, O. (1977) -
Rieppel, O. (1980) -
Phylogenetic homology cannot be stated inductively. The operational criteria of homology do not indicate whether similarities are due to common ancestry or to convergence (homoplasy). Rather the operational criteria determine topographic homology (JARDINE 1969), indicating characters which may be compared and evaluated in phylogenetic research. Different sets of characters frequently support different conjectures of phylogenetic relationships. Only the acceptance of one among several phylogenetic hypotheses on the basis of parsimony indicates which characters are homologous (due to common ancestry) and which have evolved convergently.
Rieppel, O. (1987) -
The ontogenetic development of the jaw adductor musculature in Podarcis sicula (Raftnesque) is described in detail and related to patterns of ossification in associated skull elements. It was found that the coronoid bone ossifies in continuity with the developing bodenaponeurosis, whereas the elements of the upper temporal arcade ossify prior to (and seemingly independently of) the realization of an attachment of the developing jaw adductors. Various aspects of the development of the jaw adductors are discussed in the light of theoretical claims concerning conflicting models of ontogeny, as is the role of ontogenetic studies in the determination of character polarity. It is concluded that the present study supports the model of epigenetic development, and that ontogeny alone is insufficient for the assessment of character polarity. Instead, ontogeny must be interpreted in the context of phylogenetic hypotheses.
Rieppel, O. (1992) -
Rieppel, O. (1994) -
Pattern and sequence of ossification throughout the skeleton of Lacerta agilis exigua Eichwald are described in detail and compared with those of Lacerta vivipara Jacquin. Comparison of timing of ossification allows the identification of skeletal compartments which may shift the timing of onset of ossification relative to each other while preserving the sequence of ossification within each compartment. Pattern (shape and location of appearance) and sequence of ossification may be developmentally correlated with underlying structures such as brain growth and differentiation of the jaw adductor muscle system. The delayed ossification of the dermal skull roof in lepidosaurs is identified as a paedomorphic trait of that group which may have allowed the evolution of mesokinesis in non-fossorial lizards.
Rieppel, O. (2009) -
Riera, N. (2001) -
Riera, N. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2006) -
Riera, N. & Traveset, A. & García, O. (2002) -
Aim: In this study we tested the hypothesis that the dispersal success (estimated here as fruit removal rate) of a native shrub species living in the Balearic Archipelago, Cneorum tricoccon L. (Cneoraceae), has decreased significantly in those islands where endemic lizards of the genus Podarcis have disappeared. These lizards acted as the main seed dispersers of the plant and became extinct after the introduction of carnivores. At least one of these carnivores, the pine marten (Martes martes L.), is also an important frugivore, consuming the fruits and dispersing the seeds of C. tricoccon and thus allowing the comparison of fruit removal rates between the two groups of vertebrates (lizards and mammals). We further tested the possibility that lizards (in particular, Podarcis pityusensis Bosca) could be exerting selection on seed size. Methods: In seven populations from four islands, we monitored fruit removal by either lizards or mammals. The fruits of C. tricoccon do not drop after ripening, remaining attached to the branches for long periods if not removed. In order to test whether lizards might be exerting selection on seed size, we compared seed diameter and weight between defecated and uningested (collected directly from plants) seeds for each of the populations. Results: Fruits were removed in significantly greater proportions in those populations where lizards are still present. Data showed that in two of the examined populations in the Pityusic islands, defecated seeds were lighter and smaller than controls suggesting that lizards selected fruits of smaller size than the average of the population. Main conclusions: The introduction of carnivores in the Balearics has led to important changes in the population dynamics of many native species. In the larger islands (Mallorca and Menorca), carnivores seemed to have caused the extinction of endemic lizards who acted as the only dispersers of some plants such as C. tricoccon. Pine martens, in particular, are in turn frugivorous and thus can `replace` to some extent the `lost` seed dispersers. We hypothesize that besides having decreased fruit removal rates in this shrub, these `new` dispersers have modified considerably the distribution of the plant on Mallorca island, as the fossil record shows that lizards lived at low altitudes (<500 m a.s.l.) and the plant can be currently found up to 1000 m a.s.l. Furthermore, preliminary data suggest that lizards might be exerting a selective pressure on seed size. If this is true, this pressure might have been released - or counteracted if carnivores select for fruit size as well - after the extinction of lizards from some islands, which would have important ecological consequences for the plant.
Riexinger, W.-D. (2011) -
Riexinger, W.-D. (2015) -
Die Mauereidechse besiedelt im Stadtkreis Heilbronn eine ungewöhnliche hohe Anzahl unterschiedlichster Biotopstrukturen der Kulturlandschaft, wie zum Beispiel Trockenmauern, künstliche Felsaufschlüsse, Waldränder oder auch Bahnflächen beziehungsweise angrenzende Brachflächen. Als Kukturfolger ist die Mauereidechse deshalb zum Überleben auf den Erhalt dieser vom Menschen geschaffenen Biotopstrukturen bzw. auf die entsprechenden Nutzungen angewiesen. Obwohl die Mauereidechse in der Vergangenheit in Heilbronn deutliche Biotopverluste hat hinnehmen müssen, sind teils noch individuenstarke Populationen vorhanden. Diese sind aber oft nicht miteinander vernetzt. Die regelmäßige Umsetzung von Biotopmanagementmaßnahmen trägt zum Erhalt der Art im Stadtkreis Heilbronn bei.
Rifai, L. & Modrý, D. & Necas, P. & Amr, Z.S. (2003) -
Acanthodactylus hardyi Haas, 1957 has traditionally been treated as a subspecies of the widely distributed A. scutellatus, but was recently elevated to specific rank. The occurrence of A. hardyi in Jordan was discovered very recently. Four specimens collected from Batn al Ghul and Al Hazim have the diagnostic features of A. hardyi and are therefore assigned to this taxon. This finding is considered as further proof of the validity of the taxon and of its recognition at the specific level. Ecological requirements and niche partitioning are discussed in the light of the co- occurrence of A. hardyi with A. schmidti and/or A. opheodurus.
Riggio, M. & Sudiero, R. & Lee, J., Thiele, D.J. & Parisi, E. & Filosa, S. (2004) -
Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (2014) -
Rijsewijk, A. van (2004) -
Rimpp, K. (1980) -
Riney, T. (1953) -
Rioux, J.A. & Verdier, P. & Quezel, P. (1950) -
Ripa, C. & Senczuk, G. & Ralph, T. & Milana, V. & Havenstein, K. & Castiglia, R. (2017) -
Rismiller, P.D. (1987) -
Rismiller, P.D. & Heldmaier, G. (1982) -
Voluntary body temperature selection of unrestrained Lacerta viridis revealed consistant photoperiod entrained diel patterns. Each daily cycle was characterized by an elevation in body temperature (T b) to a high level plateau which declined at the onset of scotophase to a low level; both of which were maintained within narrow ranges. Under natural photoperiod in fall, lizards responded to shorter days by sinking low level T b`s and expanding the duration of these low levels until no rhythmicity was shown. Subsequent exposure to long day, LD 16:8, induced self-arousal and a slightly altered diel T b selection with significantly higher T b`s being chosen at both the elevated and lower daily levels. Changes in the relations of diel T b selection due to shift in photoperiod, suggest that photoperiod acts as a seasonal indicator for thermal adaptation.
Rismiller, P.D. & Heldmaier, G. (1985) -
The European green lizard Lacerta viridis heats more rapidly than it cools when tested during the activity portion of its daily cycle. In contrast, slower rates of cooling relative to heating are not typical when lizards are tested during their normal scotophase rest period. Furthermore, L. viridis cools at a slower rate than do other lizards of equal size. Simultaneously measured oxygen consumption displayed an inverse pattern during daytime heating and cooling with significantly higher metabolic rates during 75% of the entire cooling process, whereas nighttime metabolic responses were practically identical during both heating and cooling. Responses to acute heating and cooling varied according to the time of day tested, coinciding with the activity and rest phases.
Rismiller, P.D. & Heldmaier, G. (1986) -
Lacerta viridis, a primarily heliothermic lizard, demonstrates augmented rates of heating and diminished rates of cooling when tested during their activity portion of tBe day in May /Rismiller and Heldmaier, 1985/. This lizard also displays a strong circa- dian rhythm in body temperature selection, whereby both level and amplitude shift with the seasonally changing photoperiod. Although decades of studies havedocumented hys- teresis between heating and cooling rates of both large /Bartholomew and Tucker, 1963/ and small lizards /Classen and Art, 1981/, seasonal changes in physiological control of thermoregulation have not been considered. Since the voluntary shift in Tj, preference shown by L. viridis most likely involves modification of other physiological parameters, we decided to compare spring rates of heating and cooling with those found in the fall.
Rismiller, P.D. & Heldmaier, G. (1987) -
1. 1. Body temperature Tb of Lacerta viridis was monitored telemetrically under natural photoperiod. 2. 2. At the end of August (LD 14:10) one group of lizards was placed in a short day photoperiod (LD 8:16) and one group received melatonin implants and was maintained at the prevailing long photoperiod. 3. 3. After 3 weeks both groups showed a modified Tb selection pattern similar to that seen under natural photoperiod in fall. 4. 4. Since melatonin mimicked the effect of short photoperiod on Tb selection, it is surmised that this hormone is involved in mediating photoperiodic information which may influence seasonal cueing of thermoregulatory responses.
Rismiller, P.D. & Heldmaier, G. (1988) -
European green lizards, Lacerta viridis, show a distinct annual cycle in their day and nighttime selected body temperature (T b) levels when monitored under natural photoperiod. The amplitude between daily photophase and scotophase temperatures varies throughout the year. Highest body temperatures with smallest day/night variation are selected from May through July. Throughout fall, the difference between day and nighttime selected T b levels increases. Lizards inevitably enter a state of winter dormancy which terminates daily rhythmicity patterns. Under natural photoperiodic conditions, cessation of dormancy occurs spontaneously by mid-March, regardless whether high temperatures are available or not. Lacerta viridis respond to an artificial long photoperiod (16 h light, 8 h dark) at all times of the year with modifications in both diel patterns and levels of selected T b to summer-like conditions. When, however, the natural photoperiod at different phases in the annual cycle is held constant for six to eight weeks, T b selection of Lacerta viridis also remains stable at the level corresponding to the prevailing photoperiod. These results implicate that the photoperiod is a more prominent Zeitgeber for seasonal cueing of temperature selection than has been surmised in the past. Further, we suggest that the large variations recorded in daily T b cycles do not imply that this lizard is an imprecise thermoregulator, but rather indicates an important integral process necessary for seasonal acclimatization.
Rismiller, P.D. & Heldmaier, G. (1991) -
Lacerta viridis maintained under natural photoperiodic conditions show daily and seasonal changes in metabolic rates and body temperature (Tb) as well as seasonal differences in sensitivity to temperature change. At all times of the year lizards have a daily fluctuation in oxygen consumption, with higher metabolic rates during the light phase of the day when tested at a constant ambient temperature (Ta) of 30°C. Rhythmicity of metabolic rate persists under constant darkness, but there is a decrease in the amplitude of the rhythm. Oxygen consumption measured at various Tas shows significant seasonal differences at Tas above 20°C. Expressed as the Arrhenius activation energy, metabolic sensitivity of Lacerta viridis shows temperature dependence in autumn, which changes to metabolic temperature independence in spring at Tas above 20°C. The results indicate a synergic relationship between changing photoperiod and body temperature selection, resulting in seasonal metabolic adjustment and seasonal adaptation.
Risso, A. (1826) -
Ritschmann, A. & Miles, D.B. & Clobert, J. & Richard, M. (2016) -
Life-history traits involved in trade-offs are known to vary with environmental conditions. Here, we evaluate the response of the trade-off between ‘offspring number’ versus ‘energy invested per offspring’ to ambient temperature in 11 natural populations of the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara. We provide evidence at both the intra- and interpopulation levels that the trade-off is reduced with an increase in air temperature. If this effect enhances current individual fitness, it may lead to an accelerated pace of life in warmer environments and could ultimately increase adult mortality. In the context of global warming, our results advocate the need for more studies in natural populations to explore interactions between life-history traits` trade-offs and environmental conditions.
Ritt, R. & Aßmann, O. (2017) -
Ritter, A. & Nöllert, A. (2020) -
In the example of two sand lizard males from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania the development of the breeding time coloration between the end of the hibernation period and the first sloughing of the actual year is documented photographically.
Ritter, M. (1992) -
Riva de la Viña, I. de la (1987) -
Riva, I. de la (1985) -
Rivas Morales, R. & Lopez-Jurado, L.F. & Ribed, P.S. (1985) -
Rivera, X. (2011) -
We present some observations of arboreal behavior in the Italian lizard Podarcis sicula (Rafinesque, 1810) at several locations in Menorca and Sardinia. We highlight the case of an observation at 8 meters high, on a Pinus pinea.
Rivera, X. & Arribas, O. & Carranza, S. & Maluquer-Margalef, J. (2011) -
Several specimens of Italian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) were found in a garden center in Sant Celoni (Vallès Oriental, Barcelona). The specimens can be confidently assigned to the Italian meridional morphotype (“sicula” type, reticulated and present in Sicily, Sardinia, southern Italy, Menorca and Dubrovnik). A short sequence of the 12S rRNA mitochondrial gene from one specimen supports this hypothesis. The lizards arrived inside old olive trees imported from Calabria. In the same garden several specimens of Timon lepidus and Tarentola mauritanica of uncertain origin have been found in olive trees imported from Extremadura (South eastern Spain).
Rivera, X. & Arribas, O. & Maluquer-Margalef, J. (2018) -
Data collected from a population of the Common Wall Lizard Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768), located at a low altitude in a gallery forest at La Muga river in Sant Llorenç de la Muga (Alt Empordà; Catalonia) is given. This location is added to other isolated locations at low altitude, already known in the counties of La Selva and the Vallès Oriental, located in similar humid environments.
Rivera, X. & Arribas, O. & Martí, F. (2001) -
Rivera, X. & Simón, J.G. & Arribas, O. (2009) -
The finding of an Andalusian Wall Lizard Podarcis vaucheri (Boulenger, 1905) population in the city of Almeria in 1989 is described. Specimens were located specially in the crevices of the “Rambla” walls, with a degraded and ruderal vegetation associated to an anthropic environment. Status of the population is unknown, specially after changes due to the urbanization of the area.
Rivero Suárez, C. & Rodríguez-Domínguez, M.A. & Molina-Borja, M. (2016) -
Lizards of the genus Gallotia, endemic to the Canary Islands, show morphological and colouration varieties that are related to within island variation in orographic and climatic characteristics. This study examines sexual size dimorphism (SSD) within and between population variation in morphological traits, and scaling relationships in G. sthelini from a southwestern locality (Tasartico) and from another (Gáldar) in the northwest of Gran Canaria. Both sites differ in climate and vegetation traits, and we hypothesised that SSD should be manifested by males having relatively larger body traits than females and that hind limb lengths should be relatively larger in individuals from the more open habitat. Results showed that one-third of the largest lizards from both populations did not differ significantly either in snout-to-vent length (SVL) nor in trunk length (TRL), but overall males had significantly larger SVL and TRL than females. Multivariate analysis showed that head width (HW) and hind limb length (HLL) were significantly larger in individuals from Tasartico than in those of Gáldar. Hind limb length was the trait that contributed most to differentiate between populations and head parameters between males and females. In both populations head and body traits scaled to TRL, head width (HW) and head depth (HD) of males having a positive allometry, and fore limb length (FLL) and hind limb length (HLL) a negative one. In relation to head length (HL), females had significantly larger TRL and smaller head depths than males; lizards from Gáldar had significantly larger trunk length (TRL), but smaller HW and HLL than those of Tasartico. We outline the multiple factors that could affect the evolution of morphometric traits of each sex, taking into account the ecological features of the two zones.
Rivière, V. (2013) -
The herpetofauna of Saint Honorat island is relatively poor and consists of common species. The Leaf-toed gecko, Euleptes europaea, is still missing yet. However, the island remains original from herpetological terms, as it represents the only population of French Mediterranean coast of western green lizard, Lacerta b. bilineata. Only two stations of the species have been observed on the island during surveys. We suspect a negative interaction with the Common Pheasant, Phasianus colchidus, occurring here in high abundance.
Rizk, K. & Nassar, F. (2015) -
The reproduction cycle of male Kulzer`s Rock Lizard, Phoenicolacerta kulzeri, was studied in a mountain population living at 2000 m a.s.l. on Mount Sannine, Lebanon. Males showed active spermiogenesis in spring, following the renewal of the post hibernation activity, and in autumn, from September until they enter into hibernation in November. About 40% of males exhibited a short testicular regression period during the hottest months, in July and August. Relative testicular volume was correlated with male body size and varied seasonally. Males of P. kulzeri showed a more distinct reproductive pattern than the common reproductive pattern of most lacertid lizards in the Mediterranean region.
Robert, J.C. & Guyétant, R. & Hérold, J.P. & Nicolet, M. (1965) -
Le Lézard vert, Lacerta viridis Laur . est un beau reptile commu n dans le Midi, mais que l`on rencontre jusque dans la Forêt de Fontai- nebleau, qui représente vraisemblablement en France sa limite septen- trionale où A.E. BREHM (2) le signalait déjà en 1885. Il ne persiste cependant dans notre région qu`à la faveur de reliefs d`orientation favo- rable qui constituent des refuges d`étendue souvent très réduite .
Robertson, I.A.D. & Chapman, B.M. & Chapman, N.F. (1963) -
Robertson, J.E. (2023) -
Determining whether a phenotypic change is the result of microevolution or plasticity can be challenging. Bestion et al. investigate the contributions of plasticity (both intragenerational and intergenerational) and selection to phenotypic changes in common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) in response to a warmer climate that mirrors projections for 2080. Their results suggest that plasticity plays a more important role than selection in governing many of the phenotypic responses to temperature change.
Robinson, M.D. (1990) -
A male expends 824 joules per day, more than twice the energy used by the smaller female (382 J day -1). Differences in field metabolism are due to mass, not sex. Most individuals of both sexes lost body mass and were in negative water balance during the summer experimental period. Feeding experiments demonstrated that seed-eating and fasting lizards lose weight at similar rates. The Assimilation Efficiency is lowest for seeds (0.52) and higher for beetle larvae (0.87). The energetic advantages of small female body size are discussed in relation to the Namib dune environment and the reproductive biology.
Robinson, M.D. & Barrows, C.W. (2012) -
Although similar in physical characteristics, dune ecosystems of the Namibian and North American Deserts have distinctive geological ages, regional climates and microenvironments. Specialist sand-diving lizards have evolved in each system albeit at different tempos and modes of speciation. Meroles anchietae (Lacertidae), and Gerrhosaurus skoogi (Gerrhosauridae) of the Namib Desert, and six taxa of Uma (Phrynosomatidae) inhabiting isolated dune systems across the North American Deserts have separately evolved convergent external morphologies, but differ in body mass, reproductive cycles, number and size of progeny, metabolic physiology and behavior. All are omnivores consuming variable proportions of vegetation including seeds along with insects that are part of detritus-based food webs. Populations of M. anchietae and Uma undergo dramatic density changes depending on annual surpluses or deficits of energy and water, mediated through unpredictable rainfall and prey availability. Unlike Namib lizards, which inhabit large contiguous dune landscapes, several species of Uma are seriously threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation from development and recreational activities. Harsh conditions common to all desert dune environments present similar challenges to species that live there, but differences in their age, climate and geographic extent offer exceptional opportunities for understanding evolution and ecosystem structure and function.
Robles, O.J. & Riva, I. de la & Araújo, M.B. (2014) -
Roca, V. (1985) -
Roca, V. (1993) -
A Survey about helminthfauna of the Saurians living in Cabrera archipelago, Tarentola mauritanica, Hemidactylus turcicus and Podarcis lilfordi, has been made. Sixteen species of helminths have been found from these hosts: 1 trematode (Paradistomum mutabile), 5 cestodes (Oochoristica gallica, Nematotaenia tarentolae, Diplopylidium acanthotetra larvae, Diplopylidium nolleri larvae, Joyeuxiella pasqualei larvae), 9 nematodes (Skrjabinodon medinae, Skrjabinodon mascomai, Spauligodon paratectipenis, Spauligodon sp., Spauligodon cabrerae, Parapharyngodon bulbosus, Parapharyngodon micipsae, Acuaria sp. larvae, Spirurida gen. sp. larvae) and 1 acanthocephalan (Centrorhynchus sp. larvae). The taxonomy and autoecology of the helminths is studied and the structures of helminth communities are analized. This analysis shows that helminth communities of the Saurians of Cabrera are depauperate, tipically isolationist and conditioned by several biotic characteristics of the hosts.
Roca, V. (1995) -
Seven lizard species of the genus Podarcis living in several islands of the Mediterranean Basin, have been helminthologically searched. Nineteen helminth species have been found: 2 trematodes, 4 cestodes, 12 nematodes and 1 acanthocephalan. The structure of the helminth infracommunities of the hosts has been analysed. There are a few component species mainly the Pharyngodonidae nematodes and the trematode Paradistomum mutabile. Also the larval forms of cestodes, nematodes and acanthocephalans are qualitatively important in the helminth faunas of Mediterranean lizards. Their presence indicate that these saurians are intermediate hosts when thet are taken as prey by small carnivorous or birds of prey. The diversity parameters such a species richness, abundance and Brillouin`s index, indicate that the helminth infracommunities of these lizards are depauperate and isolationist as it occurs in most saurians.
Roca, V. (1996) -
The effect of several abiotic and biotic factors (island area, distance from a potential colonizing source, sex, age and diet of the host) on helminth diversity of the endemic balearic lizards Podarcis pityusensis and Podarcis lilfordi caught on small islets of the Balearic islands, has been studied.
Roca, V. (1999) -
The endemic lacertid lizards of the Balearic Islands, Podarcis pityusensis and Podarcis lilfordi, are carnivorous saurians although vegetable matter is important for them in som islands and peculiar environmental conditions. Nevertheless the analysis of their helminth faunas, showed that the herbivorism of these lacertid lizards is a secondary adaptation.
Roca, V. (2001) -
Roca, V. (2002) -
Roca, V. (2003) -
A helminthological investigation was carried out on the lacertid lizard, Gallotia atlantica (Peters and Doria, 1882) (Reptilia: Lacertidae) from Lanzarote, Canary Islands (Spain). One hundred and three digenean trematodes were found in the small intestine. Based on morphological and morphometric analysis of 35 specimens, it is concluded to be a new species which is here named Pseudoparadistomum yaizaensis gen. et sp. nov. referring to the locality where the hosts were caught. Pseudoparadistomum n.g. most closely resembles members of Paradistomum and Paradistomoidella, but is characterized by a V-shaped excretory vesicle, a spined tegument, and the position of the ovary relative to the testes.
Roca, V. (2004) -
Analysis on the component communities of four populations of Podarcis pityusensis (Lacertidae) have been carried out. Two of the host populations were isolated one another, both living in separated islets, and two were non isolated populations both living in the same island. We tested the Poulin´s hypothesis concerning the structure of helminth component communities in isolated and non-isolated host populations. Three of the host populations show helminth communities that agree Poulin´s predictions. But in one of them that predictions are failed probably due to antropic actions.
Roca, V. (2012) -
Roca, V. (2013) -
Roca, V. (2015) -
Host parasite specificity is related to several factors including the type of life cycle of the parasite, the habitat occupied by both parasites and hosts, and the food habits of the hosts. In this work, gastrointestinal helminths in two congeneric lacertid lizards, Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis carbonelli living in sintopy, have been analysed. Out of four helminth species found, three of them, the trematode Brachylaima sp., the cestode Oochoristica gallica and the nematode Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni, have indirect life cycles while the nematode Spauligodon carbonelli has a direct life cycle. Heteroxenous helminths showed low host specificity whereas S. carbonelli may be placed at an intermediate position in a continuum of the degree of specificity.
Roca, V. (2016) -
Roca, V. (2017) -
A survey of the helminth communities of a population of Iberolacerta cyreni (MÜller et Hellmich, 1937), a small lizard endemic to Sistema Central (Iberian Peninsula), was conducted to determine the prevalence, abundance and species diversity of parasites of these reptiles. Four species of helminths were found, one trematode, Plagiorchis molini Lent et Freitas, 1940, one cestode, Nematotaenia tarentolae López-Neyra, 1944, and two nematodes, Skrjabinelazia sp. and Spauligodon carbonelli Roca & García-Adell, 1988. Helminth infracommunities of I. cireny showed very low values of abundance and species richness and diversity, being similar to other European lizards. The parasites found seem to have no influence on the conservation status of the host species in its natural habitat.
Roca, V. & Belliure, J. & Santos, X. & Pausus, J. (2020) -
Parasitic helminths are an almost universal feature of vertebrate animals, but reptiles are among the hosts with the mostdepauperate parasite communities. Biological traits of reptiles are considered to be among the key reasons that explain low helminthdiversity; therefore, insights from a wide range of reptile hosts are helpful to understanding the ecology of parasitic helminths. Weanalyzed helminth fauna in two lacertids,Psammodromus algirusandPsammodromus edwarsianus(Squamata: Lacertidae), and oneskink,Chalcides bedriagai(Squamata: Scincidae), three common species of Mediterranean woodlands that differ in their ecologicalconditions and in lifestyles that are linked to habitat use. We examined a total of 102P. algirus,27P. edwarsianus, and 23C. bedriagaifrom mountain landscapes in eastern Iberia. We found three helminth species, the nematodesParapharyngodon echinatusandSpauligodonsp., and the cestodeMesocestoidessp. We report new reptile hosts for two helminth species: the skinkC. bedriagaifor thenematodeP. echinatusand the lizardPsammodromus algirusfor the nematodeSpauligodonsp. We also provide the second record of thelarval forms of the cestodeMesocestoidessp. in the lizardP. edwarsianusfrom the Iberian Peninsula. Interestingly, prevalence ofinfection was much higher in the skink than it was in the two lacertid lizards. Therefore, a subterranean skink lifestyle may determinethe incidence of helminth parasites when compared to the ground-dwelling lizard species. Similar to other reptile hosts, the helminthfauna of our focal lizard species was poor and mainly composed by Pharyngodonidae nematodes that are often detected in insectivorousreptiles.
Roca, V. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. & Montori, A. & Martin, J.E. (2005) -
A parasitological survey has been carried out to determine the relationships between host diet and parasite fauna. Diet, and infracommunities and component communities of two subspecies of lacertid lizards, Gallotia galloti galloti (Oudart, 1839) and G. g. palmae (Boettger et Müller, 1914) from Tenerife and La Palma islands (Canary Islands, Spain), have been analysed. High values of parasite infection parameters were found in both subspecies, which were only infected by nematodes of the family Pharyngodonidae. Plant matter was mainly consumed by both lizard subspecies and relevant amounts of mineral matter were also found in both hosts. Diet of these lacertid lizards was correlated with their parasite fauna formed by monoxenous nematodes parasitising herbivorous reptiles, as in tortoises and iguanid lizards. Abundance and richness of parasites increased with consumption of plant matter in G. g. galloti. Helminthological data support the idea of a tendency of both hosts towards herbivory, probably related to their own phylogeny linked to insularity.
Roca, V. & Carretero, M.A. & Marques, A. & Barbosa, D. & Galdón, M.A. (2006) -
A parasitological survey was carried out to determine the relationships between helminth fauna and some biological traits of two host species of lacertid lizards. Size, sex, diet, and season of collection, as well as infracommunities and component communities of Podarcis bocagei and P. carbonelli from Douro litoral (northwest Portugal), have been analysed. In both host species, we found low values of parasite infection parameters and diversity. These findings were in accordance with their feeding habits, eating only animal prey and no plant matter. Evidences suggest a relationship between the presence of Brachylaima sp (Trematoda: Brachylaimidae) and the ingestion of snails by both lizard species. Spauligodon carbonelli (Nematoda, Pharyngodonidae), a specialist in Podarcis hosts, was the most important parasite, affecting mainly adult males with a prevalence of infection showing seasonal variation.
Roca, V. & Ferragut, M.V. (1989) -
Roca, V. & Ferragut, M.V. & Hornero, M.J. (1990) -
Roca, V. & Foufopoulos, J. & Valakos, E. & Fafilis, P. (2008) -
The Aegean wall lizard Podarcis erhardii, is widely distributed across the islands of the Aegean Sea and has emerged as an important model for studying the evolution of life histories under a diversity of ecological and isolation conditions. While we have a relatively good understanding of the ecology and life history of the species, the parasite communities of the taxon remain almost completely unknown. Quantifying the composition of these communities in P. erhardii is not only important for autoecological reasons, but also because inter-island comparisons of the parasite communities of this host can shed light on the factors that structure parasite diversity in general. Here we investigate the gastrointestinal parasite communities of P.erhardii ruthveni populations occurring on 17 islands of the Sporades group in the NW Aegean Sea. We dissected the GI tracts of 118 lizards and all helminths encountered were identified and recorded. In all, 8 species of helminthes were found, 1 Trematode (Paradistomum mutabile), 1 Cestode (Oochoristica sp.) and 6 Nematodes (Parapharyngodon micipsae, Parapharyngodon bulbosus, Parapharyngodon echinatus, Spauligodon sp., Abbreviata sp., and Skrjabinelazia sp.). The prevalence, mean intensity, and mean abundance of infection were respectively 61%; 5.74 (± 11.43; range 1-90); and 3.5 (± 9.3; range 0-90). The Brillouin’s index of diversity was 0.048 (± 0.13; range 0-0.6). These values were lower than those obtained for P. erhardii from Cyclad Islands, and suggest that the investigated populations (i) harbour only impoverished helminth communities relative to other mainland and insular lacertid populations; (ii) persist on the non-herbivorous diet. These features can probably be best attributed to the insular conditions related to the trophic availability and the long periods of isolation of these island lizard populations.
Roca, V. & Foufopoulos, J. & Valakos, E. & Pafilis, P. (2009) -
The Aegean wall lizard Podarcis erhardii, is widely distributed across the islands of the Aegean Sea (Greece). While there exists a relatively substantial body of knowledge on the ecology and life history of the species, the parasite communities of the taxon remain almost completely unknown. Quantifying the composition of these communities in P. erhardii is not only important for autoecological reasons, but also because inter-island comparisons of this lizard`s parasite communities can shed light on the factors that structure parasite diversity in general. Here we investigate the gastrointestinal parasite communities of P. erhardii populations occurring on 16 landbridge islands of the Sporades group in the NW Aegean Sea by examining the gastrointestinal tracts of 113 lizards. In all, 8 species of helminths were found: 1 Trematode (Paradistomum mutabile), 1 Cestode (Oochoristica sp.) and 6 Nematodes (Parapharyngodon micipsae, Parapharyngodon bulbosus, Parapharyngodon echinatus, Spauligodon sp., Abbreviata sp., and Skrjabinelazia sp.). The prevalence, mean intensity, and mean abundance of infection were respectively 63.71%; 6.01 (±11.71; range 1-90); and 3.57 (±9.5; range 0-90). Brillouin`s index of diversity for the Sporades was 0.048 (±0.13; range 0-0.142). These values were lower than for most other mainland and insular lacertid populations, and suggest that the investigated island populations harbor very depauperate helminth communities. The severe impoverishment of the parasite communities and the differential persistence of generalist parasite species with simple life cycles is most likely the result of a combination of insular environmental conditions (spatial and temporal isolation, arid climate, small host population sizes) and host life history characteristics (diet, simple gastrointestinal tract architecture). The paucity of parasites in these relictual island populations suggests that small reptile populations fragmented by anthropogenic activities may not be able to sustain their native parasite communities over the long term.
Roca, V. & Galdón, M.A. (2008) -
The presence of Haemogregarines (sensu lato) in the blood of many species of reptiles is not at all unusual. In Iberian and Canarian lacertid lizards, Haemogregarines have been recorded infecting erythrocytes. Most of the records were the mature gametocytes, and this fact always has disabled the accurate identification of these infecting forms because their morphology do not give enough information to identify them even at generic level. We have analyzed blood smears from 75 specimens of Podacis bocagei (Seoane, 1884) and 33 specimens of Podarcis carbonelli (Pérez- Mellado, 1981) from several localities of North-East Portugal. We found Haemogregarines (sensu lato) for 74.7% of P. bocagei and 69.7% of P. carbonelli. In order to progress in the identification of these Haemogregarines, we studied some characteristics other than the morphology of the mature gametocytes. Thus, we observed immature gametocytes (considered merozoytes by some authors) oval in form, and with a big central nucleus. Furthermore, we analyzed histologically the liver of 4 of the searched hosts (2 P. bocagei, 2 P. carbonelli). We detected the presence of latent cysts with sporozoytes. Both characteristics, the presence of merozoytes in the blood and the presence of cysts in the liver, have been recorded by several authors as typical of the genus Hepatozoon. Although more histological analysis are necessary to assert that the hole of the sample is infected by Hepatozoon, we suspect that not only P. bocagei and P. carbonelli from Portugal, but many species of Iberian (and probably Balearic and Canary) lacertid lizards (on which we are now developing some investigations) could be infected by species of this genus.
Roca, V. & Galdón, M.A. (2010) -
In Iberian and Canarian lizards, haemogregarines have been recorded infecting erythrocytes, but most of the records correspond to mature gametocytes. We analysed blood smears from 75 specimens of Podarcis bocagei (Seoane) and 33 specimens of P. carbonelli (Pérez-Mellado) from localities of north-western Portugal. We found haemogregarines in 74.7% of P. bocagei and 69.7% of P. carbonelli. Our observations show characteristics of the haemogregarines other than the morphology of the mature gametocytes. In histological sections of the liver of four hosts latent cysts with sporozoites and meronts with merozoites were detected. Both traits have been described as typical of the genera Hepatozoon Miller, 1908 and Hemolivia Petit, Landau, Baccam & Lainson, 1990. We suggest that not only P. bocagei and P. carbonelli from Portugal but other species of Iberian and Canarian lacertids might also be infected by species belonging to one or both genera.
Roca, V. & Garcia-Adell, G. & Lopez, E. & Zapatero-Ramos, L.M. (1987) -
Roca, V. & Hornero, M.J. (1990) -
Roca, V. & Hornero, M.J. (1991) -
Roca, V. & Hornero, M.J. (1992) -
The knowledge of the helminth communities of reptiles and their ecological relationships with their hosts are until the present not well known. Some general researches have been made only on American herps (AHO 1990). Recently, ROCA & HORNERO (1991a, 1991b) attempted similar kind of researches from Mediter- ranean insularlizards.
The parasitic female of the nematode Strongyloides ophiusensis sp. n.. fund in the intestine of lizard Podarcis pityusensis (Bosca, 1883) from Balearic Islands (West Mediterranean), is described. This species differs from other similar Strongyloides species in the body size, the morphology of the stoma, the structure of the ovaries and in the stage of development of the eggs, and also in some ecological and chorological characters.
Roca, V. & Hornero, M.J. (1994) -
A survey of the helminth communities of Podarcis pityusensis (Bosca, 1883) and Podarcis lilfordi (Gunther, 1874) (Sauria: Lacertidae) from the Pityusic and Gimnesic islands, respectively, in the Balearic Islands, Spain, was conducted. Both host species harbour similar though not identical helminth infracommunities. An analysis of the patterns of diversity for all helminths revealed that both lizards have depauperate isolationist infracommunities, possibly as a result of factors such as host ectothermy, the simplicity of their digestive canal, low vagility, and generalist feeding.
Roca, V. & Hornero, M.J. (1995) -
Roca, V. & Jorge, F. & Carretero, M.A. (2012) -
Roca, V. & Jorge, F. & Ilgar, C. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Durmus, S.H. & Carretero, M.A. (2013) -
Caucasian rock lizards genus Darevskia (Arribas, 1977) are small lacertids inhabiting saxicolous environments from Western Asia and Southeastern Europe. Unlike other lacertid genera, Darevskia includes both bisexual and parthenogenetic forms, which are now object of an integrated study to elucidate the patterns of reticular evolution and coexistence within this group. From the helminthological point of view, data available for the most are partial and scarce, mainly focused on taxonomy and faunistics. Recently, voucher contents of the gastrointestinal helminth fauna were available ten Darevskia species from Northern and Eastern Anatolia. Hosts were dissected, and their digestive tracts were sent to the Laboratory of Parasitology (University of Valencia) for analysis. Of all the hosts analysed, eight helminth species were found, one cestode, Nematotaenia tarentolae López-Neyra, 1944, and seven nematodes, Skrjabinodon sp., Spauligodon saxicolae Sharpilo, 1961, Pharyngodonidae gen sp1, Pharyngodonidae gen sp2, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni Li, 1934, Strongyloides sp. and Oswaldocruzia sp. Both Pharyngodonidae (only females found) showed characteristics of the genera Spauligodon or Skrjabinodon. Values of global prevalence and mean intensity and abundance were low. Comparison with the deeply analyses previously conducted for the lacertids of Iberian Peninsula showed that Darevskia spp. are less infected by gastrointestinal helminths than Podarcis spp. Only P. bocagei (Seoane, 1884) and P. carbonelli Pérez-Mellado, 1981 from Northwestern (Portugal) displayed similarly low infection prevalences than searched Darevskia spp. As in Podarcis spp., Pharyngodonidae nematodes found in Darevskia spp. belong to the evolutionary lineage of carnivorous reptiles, in accordance to the carnivorous diet reported for Darevskia spp. From a geographical point of view, it seems that helminthfauna of species of this genus, is mainly composed by Eurasiatic species, together with oriental and endemic elements, and lacking of typical Mediterranean and north African helminth elements.
Darevskia uzzelli (Darevsky et Danielyan, 1977) is a parthenogenetic lacertid lizard endemic to a restricted range in the vicinity of Horasan and Selim, NE Anatolia. Twenty specimens were captured from two different populations and analyzed for gastrointestinal helminthes. Only one male and one female of the nematode Skrjabinodon sp. (Pharyngodonidae) were found in two of the searched hosts. In consequence, the infection and diversity parameters were extremely low ant suggest a depauperate helminth community for this parthenogentic lacertid lizard. In fact, the infection and diversity values fall among the lowest within the Palaearctic saurians. Comparison of our results with those known for the parthenogenetic teiid species of the New World genus Aspidoscelis Fitzinger, 1843 (former Cnemidophorus), suggests some features that may characterize the helminth faunas of unisexual lizards: (i) very poor helminth communities; (ii) they share parasites with most other congeners; (iii) Pharyngodonidae nematodes are the most important parasites in these depauperate helminth communities. Some hypothesis on the evolution on sex suggest that identical clonal lineages should be more vulnerable to parasitism over time than genetically diverse sexual lineages. If so, parthenogenetic lizards should harbour more parasites than their recent unisexual parental ancestors. Nevertheless, some other studies do not corroborate that hypothesis. Although we have not compared the helminth communities of D. uzzelli with those of D. valentini (Boettger, 1892) and D. raddei (Boettger, 1892) (parental lineages), present results also deviate from the above mentioned hypothesis. An alternative possible reason for this extremely poor helminthfauna found in D. uzzelli may be the decreasing of opportunities for interchanging helminthes with direct life cycles, since less intra- and interespecific contacts are expected among unisexual lizards than among bisexual ones.
Roca, V. & Jorge, F. & Ilgaz, Ç. & Kumlutaş, Y. (2016) -
Populations of the lizard Darevskia rudis (Bedriaga, 1886) from northern Anatolia were examined for intestinal parasites in adult specimens. One cestode, Nematotaenia tarentolae López-Neyra, 1944 and four nematode species, Spauligodon saxicolae Sharpilo, 1962, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni Li, 1934, Oswaldocruzia filiformis (Goeze, 1782) and Strongyloides darevskyi Sharpilo, 1976, were found. Three of these nematodes, S. saxicolae, S. hoffmanni and S. darevskyi are suggested to be part of a module in the network of Darevskia spp. and their parasites. Only one, S. darevskyi, was identified as a Darevskia spp. specialist. The very low infection and diversity parameters are indicative of the depauperate helminth communities found in this lacertid lizard, falling among the lowest within the Palaearctic saurians. Nevertheless these values are higher than those found in parthenogenetic Darevskia spp. Interpopulation variation in the intensity of S. saxicolae and N. tarentolae is attributable to local changes in ecological conditions. On the other hand, parasite abundance and richness increased in the warmer localities, while the effect of lizard sex and size on infection was negligible. The structure of these helminth communities in D. rudis are compared with those observed in other European lacertid lizards.
Roca, V. & Jorge, F. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Durmus, S.H. & Carretero, M.A. (2015) -
Specimens of three species of parthenogenetic lizards (Darevskia uzzelli, D. bendimahiensis, and D. sapphirina) from northeastern Turkey were examined for gastrointestinal parasites. Only one species, the nematode Spauligodon saxicolae (Pharyngodonidae), was found. The extremely low infection and diversity parameters, falling among the lowest within the Palaearctic saurians, support depauperate helminth communities for these parthenogenetic lacertid lizards. Our results suggest that parthenogenetic Darevskia follow a pattern of parasitism similar to other unisexual lizards (i.e. Aspidocelis). The low rates of infection and diversity may be explained by the decreasing opportunities for interchanging helminths rather than factors of susceptibility of unisexual hosts.
Roca, V. & Jorge, F. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutas, Y. & Durmus, S.H. & Carretero, M.A. (2016) -
Four bisexual and two unisexual species of the lizard genus Darevskia from northeastern Anatolia were searched for intestinal parasites in adult specimens. One cestode, Nematotaenia tarentolae, and two nematode species, Spauligodon saxicolae and Strongyloides darevskyi, were found, the latest identified as a Darevskia specialist. No major differences between host species were recorded. The very low infection rates and diversity result in depauperate helminth communities for all these lacertid lizards being the lowest among the Palaearctic saurians. Patterns of these helminth communities are compared with those observed in other lacertid lizards from Anatolia and Europe.
Roca, V. & Llorente, G.A. & Carretero, M.A. & Galán, P. & Mateo, J.A. & Garcia-Márquez, M. & Rodriguez-Luengo, J.L. (2002) -
Roca, V. & Lluch, J. (1988) -
Roca, V. & Lluch, J. & Navarro, P. (1986) -
Roca, V. & Lo Cascio, P. & Martin, J. (2006) -
Se ha llevado a cabo un estudio helmintológico de muestras fecales de tres especies de saurios (Podarcis filfolensis, Podarcis raffonei y Chalcides ocellatus) en islas del Norte y Sur de Sicilia (Mediterráneo Central). Se detectaron cuatro especies de nematodos, Parapharyngodon micipsae, Parapharyngodon sp., Pharyngodon sp. y Skrjabinelazia sp. Los resultados obtenidos sugieren, para los tres hospedadores, pobreza de sus comunidades helmintianas y hábitos alimenticios esencialmente carnívoros.
Roca, V. & López-Balaguer, E. & Hornero, M.J. (1989) -
Roca, V. & López-Balaguer, E. & Hornero, M.J. & Ferragut, M.V. (1990) -
Roca, V. & Navarro, P. (1983) -
Roca, V. & Orrit, N. & Llorente, G.A. (1999) -
Roca, V. & Pérez Mellado V. (1998) -
Roca, V. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2006) -
Roček, Z. (1980) -
Rocha, I. & Salvi, D. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
The species introductions already constitute one of the major threats to biodiversity worldwide. Determining the origin of such aliens is the irst step to develop successful strategies of prevention and minimisation. The Italian wall lizard, Podarcis sicula, is a lacertid predominantly present in the central Mediterranean region, also inhabiting Sardinia, Sicily and Corsica as well as on many Adriatic islands. It frequently occurs in humanized areas, but is really fast and shy compared to other lacertids. Several scatered populations have been reported across the Mediterranean basin, namely Toulon in France, Istanbul and Marmara Islands in Turkey, Tunis and Tripoli in North Africa, and Menorca in Spain where is the dominant lizard. Experimental evidence has demonstrated behavioural interference and competitive exclusion of congeneric species and instances of hybridisation between introduced populations and other local Podarcis are also known. This suggests that the introduction of this species may be highly harmful for the local biota. In the Iberian Peninsula, populations of undetermined origin are currently known from three coastal populations with very contrasting climatic conditions. Namely, those in Almeria city (SE Spain) and Noja beach (Santander, N Spain) are suspected to be old (40-50 years ago) whereas that in Lisbon (SW Portugal) is a more recent (end of 90’s). Here we assess the origin of all three populations using the cytochrome b gene by putting sequences generated together with those published for the species both in its autochthonous range and in other introduces populations. Results are discussed in the context of the phylogeography of the species and its invasive character.
Rocha, R. & Paixão, M. & Gouveia, R. (2010) -
Here we present the first photographic evidence of opportunistic predation of a small passerine, the Berthelot’s pipitAnthus berthelotii madeirensis, on the Madeiran endemic lizard Teira dugesii mauli. The behaviour was observed in Deserta Grande, Madeira, and represents the second record of lizard predation by A. berthelotii and the first time this species is observed preying upon T. dugesii.
Rödder, D. & Nekum, S. & Cord, A.F. & Engler, J.O. (2016) -
Climate change and anthropogenic habitat fragmentation are considered major threats for global biodiversity. As a direct consequence, connectivity is increasingly disrupted in many species, which might have serious consequences that could ultimately lead to the extinction of populations. Although a large number of reserves and conservation sites are designated and protected by law, potential habitats acting as inter-population connectivity corridors are, however, mostly ignored in the common practice of environmental planning. In most cases, this is mainly caused by a lack of quantitative measures of functional connectivity available for the planning process. In this study, we highlight the use of fine-scale potential connectivity models (PCMs) derived from multispectral satellite data for the quantification of spatially explicit habitat corridors for matrix-sensitive species of conservation concern. This framework couples a species distribution model with a connectivity model in a two-step framework, where suitability maps from step 1 are transformed into maps of landscape resistance in step 2 filtered by fragmentation thresholds. We illustrate the approach using the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis L.) in the metropolitan area of Cologne, Germany, as a case study. Our model proved to be well suited to identify connected as well as completely isolated populations within the study area. Furthermore, due to its fine resolution, the PCM was also able to detect small linear structures known to be important for sand lizards’ inter-population connectivity such as railroad embankments. We discuss the applicability and possible implementation of PCMs to overcome shortcomings in the common practice of environmental impact assessments.
Rödder, D. & Schulte, U. (2010) -
though future anthropogenic climate change is recognized as one of the major threats to European species, its implementation during reserve planning has only been started recently. We here describe climate change impacts on the Iberian endemic lizard Lacerta schreiberi expecting serious declines and range reductions due to a loss of suitable climate space in the next future. We apply species distribution models to assess possible future changes in the lizard’s range, identify areas with high extinction risk meriting conservation efforts and analyze whether the Natura 2000 network in its current stage will offer a sufficient protection for the genetically most valuable lineages. Despite a very good coverage and connectivity of the most valuable populations of L. schreiberi with the existing protected sites network, our results predict a strong loss of genetic variability by 2080. Also, two main patterns become evident: While the genetically less diverse north-western populations may be less affected by climate change, the climate change effects on the southern isolates and the genetically most diverse populations within the Central System may be devastating. To improve a successful prospective conservation of L. schreiberi the management of protected sites needs to consider the processes that threaten this species. Furthermore, our study highlights the urgent need to consider climate change effects on evolutionary significant units within the Natura 2000 framework.
There is growing concern that anthropogenic climate change may particularly affect ectotherm groups such as amphibians and reptiles. Effects of anthropogenic climate change were already observed on different levels, ranging from changes in the phenology of individuals to changes in entire populations, their demography and geographic ranges with losses and range gains. Especially the latter is exacerbated by interactions of climate change with existing risk factors such as the spread of patho- gens and invasive species. In extreme cases, species are threatened by extinction, which is most likely in endemic species occupying restricted ranges. In this review, possible future climate change scenarios as well as previous observations and general expectations of climate change induced changes in phenology, demography and bio- geography of amphibian and reptile species are presented. Individual case studies on climate change induced changes in demography of the common lizard as well as possible range shifts in the alpine newt are highlighted, with applied methods being discussed regarding different elements of uncertainty.
Rode, E. (1878) -
Rode, E. (1950) -
Rödel, M.-O. (1996) -
In July 1995 one specimen of Gastropholis echinata was collected near Fresco in southern Ivory Coast. The habitat consists of Oil Palm Farms. This is unusual because Gastropholis echinata is normaly dedicated to the canopy fauna of rain forests.
Rödel, M.-O. & Glos, J. (2019) -
In March and April 2018 we surveyed amphibians and reptiles in two Proposed Protected Areas (PPAs) in Liberia. In the Krahn-Bassa Proposed Protected Area (KBPPA) in eastern Liberia 36 species of amphibians and 13 species of reptiles were recorded. In the Foya Proposed Protected Area (FPPA) in western Liberia 39 species of amphibians and 10 species of reptiles were recorded. The encountered herpetological communities in both sites were typical for West African rainforests. However, some species indicated disturbances, in particular at the edges of the study areas, the surrounding villages and plantations, and old artisanal gold mining sites within forests. Of particular conservation interest was the discovery of a high percentage of typical rainforest specialists with ranges restricted to the western part of the Upper Guinea rainforest biodiversity hotspot. Outstanding discoveries in KBPPA were two new species of puddle frogs, and the first country record for the arboreal, parachuting lizard Holaspis guentheri. Remarkable records in FPPA comprise a new species of stiletto snake, a new puddle frog and records of various frog species typically breeding in undisturbed rainforest streams, such as Odontobatrachus natator and Conraua alleni. Both study areas comprise an important proportion of the remaining rainforests in the Upper Guinea forest zone. The new discoveries indicate that within this biogeographic area, southeastern and western Liberian rainforest may still hold various undiscovered species and species of conservation concern. Further surveys in KBPPA and FPPA and nearby forests should clarify the distribution and conservation status of the new taxa. This study also emphasizes that the western part of the Liberian forests comprise at least partly a herpetofauna which differs from that of the East of the country. The recorded threatened amphibian species are all specialized on relatively undisturbed rainforests and they all have only small geographic ranges. The remaining parts of undisturbed or little disturbed forests thus have high importance for the long-term survival of these species. In conclusion the study areas have a high conservation potential and should be urgently protected from any further forest loss degradation and uncontrolled hunting.
Rödel, M.-O. & Grabow, K. & Hallermann, J. Böckheler, C. (1997) -
We report on the faunistics of lizards and additional biological observations in Comoé National Park, north-eastern Ivory Coast/West Africa. In an area of 60 km2 in the southern edge of the Park (bush-tree savanna, gallery forests, and island forests), we found 18 lizard species in the course of four years. Four species are newly recorded for the Ivory Coast (Lygodactylus gutturalis, Tarentola ephippiata, Agama sankaranica, and Heliobolus nitida). The lizard community of Comoe-National Park is compared with that of Lamto in the south of Ivory Coast.
Rödel, M.-O. & Kaupp, A. (1995) -
Rodinger, I. (2013) -
Rodrigo, M.P. & Javier, M. & Santiago, M. (2016) -
Rodrigues Sousa, T.J. (2018) -
Over the last few centuries, forestry management assumed different functions, since forest optimization, necessary for exclusive wood production, up to Nature resources’ management to biodiversity conservation, but also to promote nature recreation activities. Thereby, and supported by those last factors, this survey had as main objective the evaluation of biodiversity significance, in concrete case the avifauna, for the development of a summarized characterization of some local natural values, for future marks on the most interesting places to watch different species. This study was made in Valpaços municipality, located in Vila Real district, on summer season, and it was defined a path with nine different points (Lilela, Miradeses, Gorgoço, Cachão, Ponte do Arquinho, Parque de Campismo, Foz da Ribeira do Piago, Agordela, Tinhela), between Rabaçal and Calvo rivers, and according to a possible greenway construction project. For this process were used MacKinnon’s List and Point Count as study’s methods, with the main of helping evaluate species’ richness and abundance in different places. As a first approach to results it was possible to count a total of 72 bird species, corresponding to 79% of the already identified species in the region. Regarding the place, it was detected a larger number of species in Foz da Ribeira do Piago, a Calvo’s river affluent, and in Cachão. Lilela was the place with a smaller number of species’ observations. According to the results, it was possible to conclude that the creation of a local greenway can be an economic, cultural and a biodiversity conservation asset.
Rodriguez Delgado, V. (2014) -
Rodriguez Diaz, T. (2012) -
Rodriguez Diaz, T. (2014) -
Rodriguez Dominguez (2000) -
Rodriguez Dominguez, M. & Trujillo González, D. & Bohórquez Alonso, M.L. & Molina Borja, M. (2014) -
At a meeting with various specialists, the current situation as well as the future prospects for the reintroduction of the giant lizard of El Hierro (Gallotia simonyi) in the natural habitat were discussed. A survey of the two habitats, La Dehesa and El Julan, where captive bred Gallotia simonyi had been reintroduced, revealed disappointing results as only very few specimens were found again. However, the population size of the reintroduced lizards on the Roque Chico de Salmor is satisfactory. In addition the factors for a successful reintroduction are listed.
Rodriguez Dominguez, M. A. (1997) -
Rodriguez Dominguez, M. A. (1999) -
Rodriguez Dominguez, M. A. (2002) -
Rodriguez Dominguez, M. A. (2007) -
Rodriguez Dominguez, M.A. (2000) -
Rodriguez Dominguez, M.A. (2006) -
Rodriguez Dominguez, M.A. & Plasencia Rodriguez, S. (2014) -
Es wird über die Bestandentwicklung der vergangenen zehn Jahre der 1999 auf La Gomera wiederentdeckten Gallotia bravoana berichtet. Aus Zählungen am Gebirgsstock La Merica im Jahr 2009 errechnete sich eine erfreulich hohe Populationsgröße von 570 Exemplaren. Dagegen entsprach das Projekt zur Nachzucht in Menschenobhut zunächst nicht den Erwartungen. Nachdem die Haltungsbedingungen vor allem für die Zuchtweibchen verändert wurden, konnte die Anzahl der erzielten Schlüpflinge jedoch deutlich gesteigert werden. Zurzeit werden drei Gebiete auf La Gomera auf ihre Eignung für die Wiedereinbürgerung von Rieseneidechsen geprüft.
Rodriguez Izquierdo, R. (2019) -
In island environments, lizards tend to include plant materials into their diet at a higher proportion than in the mainland surroundings. They are considered as key elements for plant dynamics in many islands communities, where they consume a great amount of fruits. In the Canary Islands, it has been evidenced that Gallotia lizards are among the most important seed dispersers of fleshy-fruited plant species. However, if lizards’ effectiveness as seed dispersers changes or not throughout their ontogeny is still unknown. Hence, this study compares the “seed dispersal effectiveness” (SDE) provided by large and small-sized individuals of the common Canary lizard Gallotia galloti (Oudart 1839) to a group of plant species representative of the thermo-sclerophyllous shrubland, one of the most threatened habitats in the macaronesian islands. The results of this study show that large male lizards disperse a greater wealth of plants species than juveniles and female lizards. In addition, considering the quantity and quality of dispersal, large-sized lizards provide a higher SDE to plants than small-sized lizards. These results might have important consequences for the conservation of the thermos-sclerophyllous shrubland from Tenerife within a context of global change, where invasive alien predators, although without driving native species to extinction, can lead to their body size reduction.
Rodriguez Pérez, J. (2009) -
Rodríguez Ruiz, F.J. (1976) -
Rodriguez-Diaz, T. & Brana, F. (2011) -
Pregnant female Zootoca vivipara select lower body temperatures than males or nonpregnant females, and this shift in the thermal preferendum is believed to be related to optimising the conditions for embryogenesis. Thus, subjecting embryos to the higher temperature selected by males and non-gravid females might have detrimental effects on embryonic development and on hatchling fitness, according to predictions of the ‘‘maternal manipulation’’ hypothesis on the evolution of viviparity. To test the role of gestation environment on embryonic development in oviparous Z. vivipara, we kept a number of gravid females at the temperature selected by non-gravid females in a laboratory thermal gradient, whereas control females were allowed to regulate their body temperature without restrictions. Developmental stage at oviposition was more advanced for embryos of the experimental clutches, which were heavier than those of the control group. Forced gestation temperature also affected hatching success (58.62% in the experimental treatment vs. 97.37% in the control group). In addition, hatchlings from females subjected to high temperatures during pregnancy were smaller, had shorter head length and performed worse in running trials. Our results fulfil the prediction of the ‘‘maternal manipulation’’ hypothesis, and suggest that the shift in female body temperature during pregnancy optimizes embryogenesis and hatchling phenotype by avoiding the negative effects of the high incubation temperatures preferred by non-gravid females.
Rodríguez-Díaz, T. & Braña, F. (2011) -
The transition between oviparity and viviparity in reptiles is generally accepted to be a gradual process, the result of selection for increasingly prolonged egg retention within the oviduct. We examined egg retention plasticity in an oviparous strain of the lacertid lizard Zootoca vivipara, a species having both oviparous and viviparous populations. We forced a group of female Z. vivipara to retain their clutch in utero by keeping them in dry substrata, and assessed the effect on embryonic development and hatching success, along with offspring phenotype and locomotor performance. Forced egg retention for one additional week affected the developmental stage of embryos at oviposition, as well as hatchling robustness and locomotor performance. However, embryos from forced clutch retention treatment reached one stage unit more than control embryos at oviposition time. Embryos from control eggs were more developed than embryos from experimental eggs after approximately the same period of external incubation, showing that embryonic development is retarded during the period of extended egg retention, despite the high temperature inside the mother`s body. Significant differences in external incubation time were only found in one of the two years of study. Hatching success was much lower in the experimental group with forced egg retention (21.1%) than in the control group (95.4%). Therefore, we conclude that there are limitations that hinder the advance of intrauterine embryonic development beyond the normal time of oviposition, and that extended egg retention does not represent clear advantages in this population of Z. vivipara. Nevertheless, the fact that some eggs are successful after forced egg retention could be advantageous for the females that are able to retain their clutch under unfavourable climatic conditions.
Rodriguez-Diaz, T. & Brana, F. (2012) -
The evolution of reptilian viviparity is favoured, according to the coldclimate hypothesis, at high latitudes or altitudes, where egg retention would entail thermal benefits for embryogenesis because of maternal thermoregulation. According to this hypothesis, and considering that viviparity would have evolved through a gradual increase in the extent of intrauterine egg retention, highland oviparous populations are expected to exhibit more advanced embryo development at oviposition than lowland populations. We tested for possible differences in the level of egg retention, embryo development time and thermal biology of oviparous Zootoca vivipara near the extreme altitudinal limits of the species distribution in the north of Spain (mean altitude for lowland populations, 235 m asl.; for highland populations, 1895 m asl.). Altitude influenced neither temperature of active lizards in the field nor temperature selected by lizards in a laboratory thermal gradient, and pregnant females selected lower temperatures in the thermal gradient than did males and nonpregnant females across altitudinal levels. Eggs from highland populations contained embryos more developed at the time of oviposition (Dufaure and Hubert’s stages 33–35) than eggs of highland populations (stages 30–34) and partly because of this difference incubation time was shorter for highland embryos. When analysed for clutches from both altitudinal extremes at the same embryonic stage at oviposition (stage 33), again incubation time was shorter for highland populations, indicating genuine countergradient variation in developmental rate. Our results indicate that temperature is an environmental factor affecting the geographical distribution of different levels of egg retention in Z. vivipara, as predicted by the cold-climate hypothesis on the evolution of viviparity.
Rodriguez-Diaz, T. & Gonzalez, F. & Ji, X. & Brana, F. (2010) -
Females of several lizard species modify their body temperature during pregnancy, probably in connection with the optimisation of hatchling phenotypes. We studied variations in the temperature selected by gravid females compared with those selected by males and non-gravid females in an oviparous population of Zootoca vivipara (Jacquin, 1797) (Squamata: Lacertidae) of Northern Spain and examined the effects of incubation temperature on the phenotypic variation of hatchlings. Cloacal temperatures of gravid females active in the field were lower than those of males and non-gravid females, as well as the temperatures selected in a thermal gradient created in the laboratory (mean±s.d.: 32.33±1.27 °C for gravid females; 34.05±1.07 °C for males and non-gravid females). Effects of temperature were assessed by incubating eggs at five constant temperatures (21, 25, 29, 32 and 34 °C). Incubation time decreased as temperature increased, following a negative exponential function. Incubation temperatures also affected the hatchlings’ morphology: hatchlings incubated at 34 °C had shorter heads than those from other temperatures. Survival at 34 °C (58%) was significantly lower than at the other temperatures (mean 93%). Pregnant females select lower body temperature, approaching the temperatures that optimise hatchling phenotypes, according to predictions of the maternal manipulation hypothesis on the evolution of viviparity. The shift in preferred temperature by pregnant females would result in only a very short delay, if any, of hatching time and, because the temperature selected by pregnant females is much higher than average temperatures recorded in natural nests of Z. vivipara, egg retention considerably shortens incubation time, according to predictions of the cold-climate hypothesis. Our experimental results indicate that the two main hypotheses on the evolution of viviparity are compatible in our study model.
Rodríguez-Díaz, T. & González, F. & Ji, X. & Braña, F. (2010) -
Rodriguez-Dominguez, M. A. & Molina-Borja, M. (1998) -
Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. (1999) -
Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. (2006) -
Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. & Castillo, C. & Coello, J.J. & Molina-Borja, M. (1998) -
Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. & Coello, J.J. & Castillo, C. (1998) -
Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. & González Ortega, C. & Bohórquez Alonso, M.L. & M. Molina-Borja (2007) -
Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. & Ruiz-Caballero, M. (1998) -
Rodriguez-Dominguez, M.A. & Santos, A. de los & Cantarella, F. (1994) -
Rodriguez-Luengo, J. & Romero, P. (2000) -
Rodriguez-Pereira, A. & Garcia-Diaz, P. & Lizana, M. (2012) -
Rodríguez-Pérez, J. & Wiegand, T. & Santamaria, L. (2012) -
The spatial distribution of plants (and other primarily sessile organisms) depends on the interplay between their ecological requirements and the spatial template set before, during, and after the dispersal process. In the case of animal-dispersed plants, the spatial characteristics of animal behaviour during the seed dispersal process are likely to leave a lasting imprint on plant distribution. Here, we hypothesize that the activity patterns of the frugivorous lizard Podarcis lilfordi directly influence the spatial distribution of the fleshy-fruited shrub Daphne rodriguezii. To evaluate this hypothesis, we first analysed lizard activity, following radio-tracked lizards during the plant`s fruiting period, and identified its main determinants at several spatial scales of habitat aggregation (from 12.5 to 150 m). We hypothesised that lizard activity depends on differential habitat features explaining its territory use plus habitat preferences associated with each movement bout. In a second step, the most important determinants of lizard activity plus the variables describing habitat structure were used to predict the presence of adult and juvenile plants. Predictability of lizard activity (based on AUC and Pearson regression coefficients) was higher at broad spatial-scales of habitat aggregation (75 m). The two best predictors of lizard activity were the habitat features of and the distance to the core area (defined as the area enclosing the 0.50 cumulative probability of lizard locations). Plant presence was best predicted by models based on a combination of lizard activity and habitat features at local spatial scales (1.5 m). Best models included habitat features and lizard activity for adult plants, and local-scale habitat features, the proximity of adult plants and lizard activity for juveniles. In both cases, most plants (50–60%) were located at ‘optimal sites’ (both favourable for lizards and with adequate habitat features), whereas a small fraction of them (3–10%) were located at dispersal-limited sites (i.e. with adequate habitat features but suboptimal for lizards). Our results thus suggest that the interplay between lizard activity and local habitat features determines the spatial patterns of juvenile-plant presence and leaves a lasting signature on adult-plant distribution.
Rodríguez-Pérez, J. & Wiegand, T. & Traveset, A. (2012) -
Seed dispersers play a key role in shaping the spatial patterns of plant populations. After their disappearance, we expect a substantial increase in plant aggregation, which can ultimately cascade into high plant competition. We used data of fully mapped distribution of four populations of the shrub Daphne rodriguezii from Menorca Island (Balearic Islands, W Mediterranean Sea), one in which D. rodriguezii coexists with its only disperser, the lizard Podarcis lilfordi, and three populations where this lizard went extinct long ago. We used spatial point-pattern analysis to better understand the lizard`s role on the spatial distribution of D. rodriguezii. To this end, we used specific point-process models that represented our main hypotheses on the impact of (i) habitat suitability, (ii) disperser activity, (iii) proximity of adults on the distribution of juvenile and adult shrubs and (iv) the impact of adult proximity on juvenile survival. Plants were aggregated in all populations, and aggregation at short distances was stronger in populations without lizards. The observed spatial pattern of juveniles was better explained by a combination of hypotheses (ii) and (iii). The density of juveniles below adults was similar in all populations, but density far from adults was higher in the population with dispersers. In populations without dispersers, juveniles suffered higher mortality below adults. Overall, our results suggest that the effects of lizard extinction were subtle. In the absence of lizards` dispersal, plants self-replace in favourable locations, but a decline in density, is evidenced near adults attributed to higher competition. Lizards, which often defecate under fruiting plants, create also a tight juvenile–adult association, but allow juveniles to escape from the immediate proximity of adults attributed to longer-distance movements. Our study shows how the analysis of the spatial pattern of plants can leads to detailed hypotheses on the underlying mechanisms structuring plant populations.
Rodríguez-Pérez, J. & Larrinaga, A.R. & Santamaría, L. (2012) -
Seed rain mediated by frugivores is influenced by (1) the seed-deposition distances following fruit ingestion, (2) the disperser activity, as determined by its behaviour and habitat preferences, and (3) the structure of the habitat within the landscape. Here, we evaluated such components using the fleshy-fruited shrub Ephedra fragilis and the frugivorous Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi. We estimated seed-deposition patterns based on the displacements and habitat preferences of lizards, derived from visual surveys and telemetry data. The influence of variables potentially determining lizard habitat preference (i.e., height, slope, four measures of habitat abundance and four measures of habitat fragmentation) was evaluated at three spatial scales: ‘home-range’ (c. 2.5–10*103 m2; telemetry data), ‘within home-range’ (c. 100 m2; telemetry data) and ‘microhabitat’ (<100 m2; visual survey). Cumulative lizard displacement (from each telemetric location to the initial capture point) saturated before the peak of seed defecation (seed-retention time), indicating that lizard home-range size and habitat preferences were the main determinants of the spread and shape of seed shadows. Shrub cover was positively correlated with habitat preference at the three scales of analysis, whereas slope was negatively correlated at the home-range scale. Model scenarios indicated that spatially-aggregated seed rain emerged when we incorporated the joint effect of habitat preference at the two largest (home-range and within home-range) scales. We conclude that, in order to predict seed rain in animal dispersed plants, it is important to consider the multi-scale effects of habitat preference by frugivores.
Rodríguez-Pérez, J. & Riera, N. & Traveset, A. (2005) -
The ingestion of fruits by vertebrate frugivores produces great variation on seed germination responses which depend on (1) the frugivorous species; (2) several factors intrinsic to the plant species; and (3) the conditions under which germination tests are conducted. Most studies on this topic have used only one or a few disperser species, and have been performed under controlled conditions. The main goals of this study were to determine (1) the effect that birds (blackbird, Turdus merula) and lizards (Podarcis pityusensis) have on seed emergence patterns of a group of common Mediterranean plants (e.g., Crataegus monogyna, Ephedra fragilis, Juniperus phoenicea, Osyris alba, Pistacia lentiscus, Rhamnus alaternus, Rhamnus ludovici-salvatorus, Rubia peregrina, Rubus ulmifolius [Rubus inermis], Smilax aspera, Solanum luteum and Solanum nigrum); and (2) whether such patterns differ between field and common garden conditions. Over 2 years we compared seed emergence times with those of controls (pulp-removed seeds). Emergence patterns were inconsistent for most plant species when comparing field (scrubland) vs. common-garden conditions. In some cases results were even contradictory: for instance lizards accelerated the emergence time of Rubus seeds in the field, but delayed it in the experimental garden; likewise Rubia seeds ingested by blackbirds emerged more slowly than controls in the field, but faster than those in the garden. The two frugivorous species had also inconsistent effects on the same plant species. Significant changes in seed weight after passage through the animals` digestive tracts were observed in most species. However, seed weight did not explain differences in seed emergence patterns between ingested and non-ingested seeds. This study demonstrates the great heterogeneity in seed emergence responses of the different plant species to ingestion by different types of frugivore, and to the different experimental conditions. Thus, caution is needed when making generalizations from studies that aim to evaluate the influence of frugivores on seed dispersal quality.
Rodríguez-Pérez, J. & Traveset, A. (2010) -
Mutualistic disruptions, such as those promoted by the loss of seed dispersers, can have negative effects on the plant regeneration of those species that strongly depend upon them. In order to adequately assess how plant communities are affected by such disruptions, we need to know the importance of the dispersal phase, both in its quantitative and qualitative components. We examined this in the narrow interaction between the shrub Daphne rodriguezii and its (only) disperser, the lizard Podarcis lilfordi. We quantified fruit removal and the effect of fruit/seed-size selection, seed treatment in the disperser’s guts and seed deposition patterns on seedling emergence and survival. In the only locality in which lizards persist, they removed most fruits and showed preference for larger ones in one of the two study years. Seed treatment in lizard’s guts had no effect on germination, although it tended to reduce the effect of seed size on germination (differences between large vs. small seeds in seed germination were higher for non-ingested seeds). Probability of seedling emergence, but not survival, was higher in the locality with lizards. Dispersed seeds under heterospecific shrubs showed higher seedling survival than those under conspecifics in all localities, especially the year with higher rainfall. Our findings support that the movement of seeds to nurse shrubs by lizards is the most important component of the seed dispersal process in the only remaining locality where both species coexist.
Rodríguez-Pérez, J. & Traveset, A. (2011) -
Seed dispersal links the end of a plant`s reproductive cycle with the establishment of new recruits. Dispersal over short distances may lead to the local aggregation of individuals, slower population growth and, ultimately, to lower population densities. In this study, we analyse the demographic consequences for the shrub Daphne rodriguezii after the loss of its only seed disperser in an island ecosystem (Menorca Island, western Mediterranean). During a period of 8–10 years, we collected demographic data from five populations, four where the disperser is extinct (disrupted) and the only one in which it still persists (undisrupted). We calculated basic deterministic variables, analysed life table response experiments (LTRE) and their covariation among demographic traits, and simulated future population vulnerability. Population growth rate (λ) was either stable or negative and independent of whether the population was disrupted or not. Current and past population dynamics were similar in the two largest populations (one being the undisrupted), which suggests that the environmental conditions allow them to be stable regardless of seed disperser presence. Variation in λ was dependent on rainfall variability and was highly influenced by stasis and growth. There also existed tradeoffs between the former life traits and fecundity, which indicate strong competition when resources are limiting (e.g. high plant aggregation due to limited seed dispersal or low rainfall), and that could ultimately affect high-elasticity demographic traits. Our study suggests that the population dynamic of D. rodriguezii is stable under the current conditions, and that where dispersal is limiting, important environmental changes (e.g. in habitat suitability and/or rainfall regime) might lead to local extinctions.
Rodriguez-Prieto, A. & Giovine, G. & Laddaga, L. (2017) -
Improving the knowledge about the distribution of threatened species is a fundamental step forward for implementing effective measures for species conservation. Distribution maps of herpetological species are often inferred from morphological identification but, in some cases, morphology alone is not reliable for assessing the distribution of look-alike species. The common lizard Zootoca vivipara includes several lineages which, to date, cannot be distinguished by any conventional morphological traits. Therefore, a reliable taxonomic identification for the main Zootoca lineages is only feasible with genetic data. In this study, we identify a morphological trait that can be used to distinguish individuals of the parapatric Z. v. vivipara and Z. carniolica, without the support of molecular analyses. This method may provide a cost-effective tool to better depict the distribution of the threatened Z. carniolica and therefore prioritize the conservation of the locations where the oviparous Alpine lineage is found.
Rodriguez-Prieto, I. & Martin, J. & Fernández-Juricic, E. (2010) -
Habituation to nonlethal predation stimuli may provide benefits for animals living in areas with frequent encounters with low-risk predators. On the other hand, individuals can be very consistent in their antipredator responses, with shy individuals showing greater degree of responsiveness than bold individuals. However, the link between habituation or boldness and individual benefits has not been thoroughly investigated. We established whether and how two behavioral components associated with antipredator responses (habituation and boldness, and their interaction) would influence body condition, which is a parameter related to fitness. We conducted an outdoor seminatural experiment with Iberian wall lizards (Podarcis hispanica). Individual boldness was consistent across contexts, but we did not find any effect of boldness or the interaction between boldness and habituation on body condition. However, those individuals that habituated more readily to a frequent predatory stimulus were able to increase their body condition more relative to lizards that habituated less. This finding highlights the importance of individual differences in behavioral plasticity, which could influence traits related to fitness. Habituation can provide benefits for individuals exposed to low-risk predators; however, individuals more prone to habituation could also experience mortality costs by wrongly habituating to a dangerous predator.
Rodríguez-Prieto, I. & Martín, J. & Fernández-Juricic, E. (2010) -
Little is known about the factors causing variation in behavioural plasticity and the interplay between personality and plasticity. Habituation to predators is a special case of behavioural plasticity. We investigated the direct and indirect effects of boldness, exploration and sociability traits on the habituation ability of Iberian wall lizards, considering exposure and sex effects. Individual boldness was consistent across several non-habituation contexts, but it did not significantly affect habituation. Exploration had a strong direct effect on habituation, with more exploratory individuals being able to habituate faster than less exploratory ones, probably because of their ability to assess risk better. Individual variation in habituation was also affected by sociability, but this was an indirect effect mediated by exposure to the predator. Less social individuals avoided refuges with conspecific cues, increasing exposure to the predator and eventually habituation. Finally, the direct effects of sex (females habituated faster than males) were opposite to its indirect effects through exposure. We conclude that risk assessment, instead of the proactivity–reactivity gradient usually considered in the literature, can affect behavioural plasticity through complex interactions between direct and indirect effects, including exploratory behaviour, degree of exposure to the predator and sex, which represent novel mechanisms generating inter-individual variation in plasticity.
Rodriguez-Ruiz, G. (2018) -
Rodriguez-Ruiz, G. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2019) -
Female Carpetan rock lizards (Iberolacerta cyreni) might assess the quality of males from their chemical signals. Females select areas scent marked by males with secretions containing high proportions of provitamin D to ensure mating with high-quality males. However, an alternative explanation might be that females are not choosing a mate, but that females have a pre-sensory bias for chemical cues of vitamin D in the food and are, in fact, assessing habitat quality to obtain direct benefits of increasing the intake of vitamin D. We evaluated experimentally the possible benefits of a nutritional supplement of provitamin D or vitamin D in pregnant females for their clutches and offspring. However, we did not find large differences between treatments, except in the lower body condition of juveniles of mothers supplemented with provitamin D. We also tested the chemosensory interest of females in the scent of males to study the existence of a sensory bias; this response decreased when the amount of dietary vitamin D exceeded their needs. The results suggest that there are no reproductive benefits in the intake of additional vitamin D and that the potential sensory bias to scents of males could be related to the physiological needs of the females.
Rodriguez-Ruiz, G. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2020) -
One way that maternal effects may benefit the offspring is by informing them about the characteristics of the environment. Through gestation, environmentally induced maternal effects might promote in the offspring-specific behavioral responses like dispersal or residence according to their new habitat characteristics. Females of the Carpetan rock lizard (Iberolacerta cyreni) seem to choose their home ranges using the smell of provitamin D3 in scent marks produced by males. Here, we supplemented gravid females of I. cyreni with dietary provitamin D3 or vitamin D3 to examine whether these food resources, also associated with the scent of males, affect the motivation to disperse and the locomotor performance of their offspring. Our results suggest that the supplementary availability of the resource (vitamin D3) to mothers may provoke condition-transfer maternal effects that motivate the residence or the dispersal of the offspring in their postnatal habitat. Thus, hatchlings of supplemented females had a lower dispersal trend in spite of having a greater climbing ability than hatchlings from nonsupplemented females. This suggests that the levels of provitamin D3 and vitamin D3 inside the body of the mother could act as an informative compound of the habitat quality for the offspring.
Rodriguez-Ruiz, G. & Ortega, J. & Cuervo, J.J. & López, P. & Salvador, A. & Martin, J. (2020) -
Sexual signals can be evolutionarily stable if they are condition dependent or costly to the signaler. One of these costs may be the trade-off between maintaining the immune system and the elaboration of ornaments. Experimental immune challenges in captivity show a reduction in the expression of sexual signals, but it is not clear whether these detrimental effects are important in nature and, more importantly, whether they have reproductive consequences. We designed a field experiment to challenge the immune system of wild male Carpetan rock lizards, Iberolacerta cyreni, with a bacterial antigen (lipopolysaccharide). The immune challenge decreased relative reflectance of ultraviolet structural and melanin-dependent sexual coloration in the throat and the lateral ocelli, whereas the carotenoid-dependent dorsal green coloration was not affected. Immune activation also decreased proportions of ergosterol and cholesta-5,7-dien-3-ol in femoral secretions. These results support a trade-off between the immune system and both visual and chemical sexual ornaments. Moreover, the reproductive success of males, estimated with DNA microsatellites, depended on the expression of some color and chemical traits. However, the immune challenge did not cause overall differences in reproductive success, although it increased with body size/age in control but not in challenged males. This suggests the use of alternative reproductive strategies (e.g., forced matings) in challenged males, particularly in smaller ones. These males might consider that their survival probabilities are low and increase reproductive effort as a form of terminal investment in spite of their “low-quality” sexual signals and potential survival costs.
Rodriguez-Ruiz, G. & Recio, P. & Lopez, P. & Martin, J. (2021) -
Foraging strategies aim to maximize the amount of food obtained while minimizing searching costs. To reduce these costs, animals use different strategies based on the use of personal or social information to exploit food patches. At the same time, the social attraction for food resources could increase competition intensity for them. Prior experiences of animals regarding social risk and the foreknowledge of the competitors might drive the foraging strategies. In this paper, we examined experimentally whether rock lizards used behavioural strategies to reduce the risks of foraging in presence of potential competitors. We measured the foraging behaviour of a lizard resident to a territory (i.e. terrarium), in the presence of both familiar and unfamiliar conspecifics (po tential competitors). We considered whether foraging choices between two food sources of different value (i.e. quantity) are influenced by familiarity with the intruder and the evaluation of its competitive ability based on body size differences between lizards. We found differences in the number of attacks performed to the best food source, with more attacks when the intruder was unfamiliar. The results suggest evidence of both dear enemy recognition and current rival assessment modulate the foraging choices depending on the identity and the social relationship with the intruder.
Rodriguez-Santana, R. (2009) -
Rodriguez, A. & Nogales, M. & Rumeu, B. & Rodriguez, B. (2008) -
We analyzed 621 lizard fecal pellets to assess the diet of the endemic lizard Gallotia galloti (Lacertidae) throughout one year in the thermophilous scrubland, the most threatened habitat in the Canary Islands. Indicating the importance of frugivory, 98.1% of pellets contained seeds from fleshy-fruited plant species (8,028 seeds in total), and the fruit volume reached 47.5%. The Canarian endemic plants Rhamnus crenulata and Canarina canariensis were most important in frequency of occurrence and number of seeds found in pellets, respectively. Lizards were more frugivorous during the summer (63.0% of volume), and seasonal variation was associated with temporal changes in availability of ripe fleshy fruits. We detected microspatial differences in the consumption of fruits and plant material. Significant correlations were found between plant cover of each species and their respective consumption by lizards. Lizards consumed invertebrates throughout the year; Formicidae, Hemiptera, Coleoptera, and Hymenoptera were the most frequently consumed prey (76.5% of the animal prey items). Our results indicate that G. galloti is one of the most frugivorous lacertids studied. The high number of undamaged seeds removed by these lizards also implies an important role in the seed dispersal processes of many fleshy-fruited plant species from this threatened habitat.
Rodriguez, A. & Rodriguez, B. & Montelongo, T. (2007) -
Rodríguez, J. & Traveset, A. (2006) -
Rodriguez, M.A. & Castillo, C. & Sánchez, S. & Coello, J.J. (2000) -
Rodriguez, N. (2014) -
Rodríguez, V. & Bloor, P. & Terrasa, B. & Brown, R.P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2010) -
The endangered (CITES II listed) lizard species Podarcis lilfordi Günther, 1874 is en- demic to the Balearic Islands. It is biogeographically unique, in that natural populations are absent from the main islands of Mallorca and Menorca, but present at generally very high densities on many of the tiny coastal rocks, islets and islands that surround them. Analyses using mtDNA sequences have identi ed considerable ne-scale geographical struc- turing (Terrasa et al. 2009), a complete understanding of the signi cance of current subspeci c designations, the occurrence of cross-islet introductions, and the evolutionary history of the dif- ferent forms have been hampered by the relatively slow xation rates of this marker in relation to recency of population vicariance. Markers with many alleles, such as microsatellite loci, have unprecedented ability to detect and describe genetic differences between populations at much smaller geographical scales and time intervals than has traditionally been possible using mtDNA. A panel of fteen microsatellite loci was described for the lizard Podarcis lilfordi, by using enriched genomic libraries for AAAG and ACAG repeat sequence. Characterization of these loci, in 26 individuals within one population (Dragonera’s islet) showed to be highly polymorphic with 6–19 alleles, the observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.46 to 0.92 and 0.78 to 0.95, respectively, and did not deviate from Hardy–Weinberg expectations. These loci were successfully cross-ampli ed in the closely related species P. pityusensis, so these markers will be used to study population differentiation in these species as well as the evolutionary history of different morphological forms.
Rodriguez, V. & Brown, R.P. & Terrasa, B. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2013) -
Two monophyletic sister species of wall lizards inhabit the two main groups of Balearic Islands: Podarcis lilfordi from islets and small islands around Mallorca and Menorca and Podarcis pityusensis from Ibiza, Formentera and associated islets. Genetic diversity within the endangered P. lilfordi has been well characterized, but P. pityusensis has not been studied in depth. Here, 2430 bp of mtDNA and 15 microsatellite loci were analysed from P. pityusensis populations from across its natural range. Two main genetic groupings were identified, although geographical structuring differed slightly between the mtDNA and the nuclear loci. In general, individuals from islets/islands adjacent to the main island of Ibiza were genetically distinct from those from Formentera and the associated Freus islands for both mtDNA and the nuclear loci. However, most individuals from the island of Ibiza were grouped with neighbouring islets/islands for nuclear loci, but with Formentera and Freus islands for the mitochondrial locus. A time-calibrated Bayesian tree was constructed for the principal mitochondrial lineages within the Balearics, using the multispecies coalescent model, and provided statistical support for divergence of the two main P. pityusensis lineages 0.111–0.295 Ma. This suggests a mid-late Pleistocene intraspecific divergence, compared with an early Pleistocene divergence in P. lilfordi, and postdates some major increases in sea level between 0.4 and 0.6 Ma, which may have flooded Formentera. The program IMa2 provided a posterior divergence time of 0.089–0.221 Ma, which was similar to the multispecies coalescent tree estimate. More significantly, it indicated low but asymmetric effective gene copy migration rates, with higher migration from Formentera to Ibiza populations. Our findings suggest that much of the present-day diversity may have originated from a late Pleistocene colonization of one island group from the other, followed by allopatric divergence of these populations. Subsequent gene flow between these insular groups seems likely to be explained by recent human introductions. Two evolutionary significant units can be defined for P. pityusensis but these units would need to exclude the populations that have been the subjects of recent admixture.
Rodriguez, V. & Brown, R.P. & Terrasa, B. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Picornell, A. & Castro, J.A. & Ramon, C. (2013) -
Podarcis filfolensis is an endemic lizard from the Maltese archipelago. There is evidence of human-mediated decline and even extirpation of some insular populations of this species. However, information about the intraspecific genetic diversity and phylogeographic patterns of this species is limited. Here we analyze genetic markers from a multi-locus dataset (mtDNA, 2,533 bp; nuclear c-mos gene, 353 bp; 11 microsatellites) for individuals from extant populations of P. filfolensis. Despite generally low genetic variability, two main mitochondrial groupings were clearly identified. In general, individuals from the main island of Malta were genetically distinct from those from Gozo, Comino, Cominotto and Small Blue Lagoon Rock, and also from Linosa and Lampione individuals. Three genetic clusters were detected based on microsatellite data: one was found at higher frequency on Malta, while the other two included samples from the remaining islands, showing some concordance with the mtDNA pattern. A time-calibrated Bayesian tree for the principal mitochondrial lineages indicated strong statistical support for two P. filfolensis lineages that originated in the Pleistocene (105.4–869 Ka). We show that these lineages largely meet the criteria for recognition as evolutionary significant units despite some recent admixture (possibly due to recent translocations between islands). Human disturbance, low genetic variability, evidence of bottlenecks and extirpation on one island indicate that a thorough review of the current conservation status of P. filfolensis would be timely.
Rodríguez, V. & Buades, J.M. & Brown, R.P. & Terrasa, B. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Corti, C. & Delaugerre, M. & Castro, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2017) -
Background: Podarcis tiliguerta is a wall lizard endemic to the Mediterranean islands of Corsica and Sardinia. Previous findings of high mtDNA and morphological diversity have led to the suggestion that it may represent a species complex. Here, we analysed mitochondrial and nuclear markers (mtDNA, 3110 bp; 6 nDNA loci, 3961 bp) in P. tiliguerta sampled from thirty-two localities across Corsica and Sardinia. Results: We find much greater intraspecific genetic divergence than between sister species of other Mediterranean island Podarcis, i.e., between P. lilfordi and P. pityusensis. We detected three mtDNA clusters in Corsica (North, South-East and South-West) and either two or three in Sardinia (North vs. South) depending on the clustering method. Only one or two nDNA groups were identified within each main island (again, depending on the method). A Bayesian time- calibrated multispecies coalescent tree was obtained from mtDNA and provided statistical support for a Miocene origin of the species (13.87 Ma, 95% HPD: 18.30–10.77 Ma). The posterior mean divergence time for the Corsican and Sardinian lineages was 12.75 Ma ago (95% HPD: 16.94–9.04 Ma). Conclusion: The results support the evolutionary distinctiveness of Corsican and Sardinian populations and also indicate a lack of post-divergence migration despite periods of contact being possible. Further to this, species delimitation analyses of Corsican and Sardinian lineages provided statistical support for their recognition as distinct (sister) taxa. Our results provide new insights into the biogeography of the Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot, and contribute important findings relevant to the systematics and evolution of this speciose lizard genus.
Roelke, C.E. & Smith, E.N. (2010) -
Herein is presented a list of the reptiles and anurans from the Parc National des Volcans (PNV) (01°43’ S, 29°52’ W), an area in the west and north provinces of the Republic of Rwanda in the Albertine Rift region of Africa. Fieldwork was conducted between two and six days per week from June through August 2007 and 2008. We also conducted literature searches of all historical expeditions within the park for species records. Seventeen species of reptiles and anurans are recorded from the PNV. Nine of the species were anurans, distributed in five families: Arthroleptidae (3), Bufonidae (1), Hyperoliidae (3), Phrynobatrachidae (1), and Pipidae (1). Eight species of reptiles were recorded from five families: Chamaeleonidae (1), Lacertidae (2), Scincidae (2), Colubridae (2), and Viperidae (1). Eight of the seventeen species found in the PNV are endemic to the Albertine Rift.
Rofo Oróns, V. (2015) -
Reptiles, with their great diversity of sex-determining systems, have long been regarded as a model group for studying the evolution of sex determination and sex chromosomes. They also hold a key phylogenetic position to elucidate the organization and evolution of amniote genomes. This PhD thesis aims to contribute to this understanding by investigating sex chromosomes and karyotype evolution in lacertid lizards, with a focus on rock lizard species (genus Iberolacerta) endemic of the Iberian Peninsula. Firstly, we applied classical and molecular cytogenetic methods to identify and characterize previously unknown ZW sex chromosomes in the species I. monticola. Secondly, we developed whole-chromosome paints from I. monticola to detect chromosomal rearragements and test the homology of sex chromosomes among closely related lacertid species. These results revealed a high degree of karyotype conservation, but a rapid and independent differentiation of sex chromosomes, and even a putative cryptic event of sex chromosome turnover. Finally, we explored the mode of evolution of two satellite DNA families shared by all eight Iberolacerta species. Both satellite DNAs showed complex and disparate evolutionary patterns, and a highly dynamic behaviour which may be correlated with chromosomal rearragements and karyotype diversification in this genus.
Rogenhofer, A.F. (1908) -
Rogeon, G. & Sordello, R. (2012) -
Rogner, M. (1981) -
Rogner, M. (1987) -
Rogner, M. (2001) -
Rogner, M. & Philippen, H.D. (1985) -
Rogovin, K.A. & Semenov, D.V. & Shenbrot, G.I. (2001) -
Rohde, W. (1925) -
Rohdich, W. (1974) -
Rohdich, W. (2005) -
Roig Fernández, J.M. (2009) -
Roig, J.M. (1998) -
Roig, J.M. & Amat, F. (2009) -
Roig, J.M. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (1998) -
Roig, J.M. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (1999) -
Roig, J.M. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (2000) -
High altitude reptiles inhabit adverse environments that condition their reproductive biology. The reproductive and fat body cycles of a high altitude oviparous population of the Common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) in the central Pyrenees were analysed and compared with data on other oviparous and viviparous populations from lower altitudes found in the literature. The studied population shows an extremely short reproductive period. Males show a mixed-type spermatogenesis with very short, vernal spermiogenesis. They emerge from their winter burrows earlier than females and remain unfertile until females start activity and the breeding season begins. Large males release more sperm in copulations than small ones. Females synchronically lay a single clutch per year whereas other oviparous populations living at lower altitudes are iteroparous. Females invest more fat reserves from different compartments (liver, tail) than males, but later in the reproductive season. This major energetic stress seems to be due to the long period of oviductal egg retention. The main effect of altitude on oviparous Zootoca vivipara is the shortening of the reproductive period, which precludes the laying of a second clutch. However, no substantial differences (other than reproductive modality) have been detected between this high mountain oviparous population and viviparous ones. This suggests that not only viviparity but also oviparity is a suitable strategy in such environmental conditions.
Roig, J.M. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. (2001) -
Roig, J.M. & Montori, M. & Carretero, M.A. & Llorente, G.A. & Santos, X. (2000) -
Roitberg, E.S. (1982) -
Roitberg, E.S. (1987) -
Roitberg, E.S. (1991) -
n 2920 specimens of Lacerta agilis boemica and L. strigata from Daghestan the individual variation of the head scutes pattern was studied. About 150 different deviations from the normal pattern were revealed. These deviations include: absence of individual normal shields or fissures, separating adjacent shields (A); presence of additional shields or fissures (B); alterations of shields’ arrangement (C). In both species the next three properties of the variation were shown and discussed: 1) variants of group (B) are much more diversified and frequent than those of group (A); 2) the extent of the variation as well as its diversity is strictly limited; 3) deviations of groups A and B are discrete in their morphological expression. These properties are supposed to be determined by morphogenetic mechanisms, shaped in the course of evolution of head scutellation in the direction of oligomerization and formation of a regular and stable pattern.
Roitberg, E.S. (1994) -
Using methods of statistical analysis, the extent of morphological inter- and intra-population variation in two sympatric lizard species (Lacerta agilis boemica and L. strigata) from the North Caucasus (Daghestan) was compared. 1042 specimens from 7 localities of lowland and foothill Daghestan were scored for 8 pholidotic features and 22 characters of head scutellation. The occurrence of evident differences in the extent of the interpopulation variation was revealed: the latter is higher in L. agilis as compared with L. strigata from the same localities. Two factors are proposed to be responsible for this difference: a) gene flow among populations which seems to be more intense in L. strigata and b) developmental homeostasis which seems to be higher in L. strigata if compared with L. agilis.
About 170 specimens of L. c. caucasica and L. c. daghestanica from two localities where they had been found to coexist sympatrically, were studied for color pattern and 7 meristic scale characters. In Khorachoi (south-eastern Chechnya) the specimens of the two forms differ clearly by their dorsal pattern and form two sharply discrete classes along PCI in the principal component analyses of scalation; a distinct hiatus between the two taxa was revealed for the superciliary granulae number. In Khvarshi (western Daghestan), the morphological separation between the two forms is somewhat weaker than in Khorachoi for both scalation and color pattern. Some reproductive isolation between L. c. caucasica and L. c. daghestanica in the studied sections of their contact zone is proposed.
Roitberg, E.S. (1998) -
Roitberg, E.S. (1999) -
Based on 270 specimens from 7 populations of Lacerta alpina, L. caucasica, L. daghestanica and L. praticola, morphological relationships between the four species were studied for 7 meristic characters and 5 morphometric characters, using canonical variate analysis. In both scalation and morphometry, the contours and centroids of the studied populations form a trend: L. praticola – L. caucasica – L. daghestanica, which represents the main direction of phenetic differentiation between the studied taxa (60–80% of the total among-group variation). Possible factors, determining this trend, as well as the problem of evolutionary polarity in the morphological series of the three species are discussed.
Five sympatric populations of Lacerta caucasica (s. st.) and L. daghestanica from the eastern North Caucasus were examined for color pattern (qualitatively) and seven scalation and five morphometric characters by using multivariate and univariate biometrical procedures. In all five localities, daghestanica form differs from caucasica one in having more scales in different meristic rows (scales around midbody, ventrals, femoral pores, superciliary granules, temporals, but not circumanalia), relatively long, narrow and flattened head and longer hindlegs. The degree of phenetic separation between these: two sympatric forms was found to vary from a distinct specific level in the South-East of Chechen Republic to a slight intergradation in southwestern Daghestan. These differences in the level of morphological separation manifest themselves both in scalation and morphomerty, but the latter set of characteristic was less discriminative. Taking into account some features of geographic relations between daghestanica and caucasica forms, it was suggested that different portions of their contact zone had fixed different stages of evolutionary divergence.
Roitberg, E.S. (2001) -
Roitberg, E.S. (2005) -
Roitberg, E.S. (2007) -
This chapter presents an analysis of geographic variation in sexual size dimorphism (SSD) within a widespread Eurasian lizard species, Lacerta agilis. Comparisons of snout-vent lengths from fifty-two samples reveal that the difference between female-larger L. a. agilis in West Europe and the predominantly male-larger L. a. boemica in the southeastern North Caucasus is caused primarily by divergence in male size (Rensch`s rule). Five other subspecies occupy intermediate positions along the SSD axis. Both latitudinal and altitudinal clines occur within subspecies, with more male-biased SSD occurring in warmer climates. Data on age-specific SVLs and age compositions show that sex differences in body growth are the major proximate determinant of adult SSD, sex-biased adult survival being of minor importance. Selective and proximate-level factors are proposed as possible determinants of these patterns, but future studies will be required to adequately test these hypotheses.
Roitberg, E.S. (2015) -
Most live-bearing squamates exhibit a primitive (lecitotrophic) viviparity which can be described as a pronounced retention of eggs in the oviducts with accompanying shifts in some other quantitative traits. Viviparity of this kind may thus be viewed as an endpoint along an oviparity-viviparity continuum (OVC). Theory predicts that a transition from oviparity to viviparity is associated with evolutionary shifts in multiple life-history traits. These predictions have mostly been tested via broad comparisons of viviparous vs. oviparous species, whereas life-history consequences of smaller shifts along the OVC, which occur within the egg-laying reproductive mode, remain poorly studied. Lizards of the West Palaearctic tribe Lacertini present a promising model for studying initial stages towards viviparity. They show a marked variation along the OVC among and within species. My talk will confront the patterns of intraspecific life-history divergence in two widespread lacertid lizards, Zootoca vivipara (which includes both oviparous and viviparous lineages) and Lacerta agilis (Roitberg et al., 2013, 2015, see www.eroit.allrital.de for details), with the patterns of interspecific variation (Braña et al., 1991; Braña, 1996). A pronounced parallelism of life-history variation along the OVC within and among species was found. The most consistent pattern is a decrease in mean offspring size in species or intraspecific lineages with longer vs. shorter egg retention. This trend is apparently accompanied with increasing the total clutch mass relative to female mass, and increasing female body size relative to male body size. The revealed patterns will be discussed in the context of several models of life-history evolution, such as Darwin`s fecundity-advantage hypothesis and the Winkler & Wallin model.
Roitberg, E.S. & Amat, F. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Carretero, M.A. & Kuranova, V.N. & Zinenko, O.I. & Yakovlev, V.A. (2007) -
Roitberg, E.S. & Eplanova, G.V. & Kotenko, T.I. & Amat, F. & Carretero, M.A. & Kuranova, V.N. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Zinenko, O.I. & Yakovlev, V.A. (2015) -
The fecundity-advantage hypothesis (FAH) explains larger female size relative to male size as a correlated response to fecundity selection. We explored FAH by investigating geographic variation in female reproductive output and its relation to sexual size dimorphism (SSD) in Lacerta agilis, an oviparous lizard occupying a major part of temperate Eurasia. We analysed how sex-specific body size and SSD are associated with two putative indicators of fecundity selection intensity (clutch size and the slope of the clutch size–female size relationship) and with two climatic variables throughout the species range and across two widespread evolutionary lineages. Variation within the lineages provides no support for FAH. In contrast, the divergence between the lineages is in line with FAH: the lineage with consistently female-biased SSD (L. a. agilis) exhibits higher clutch size and steeper fecundity slope than the lineage with an inconsistent and variable SSD (L. a. exigua). L. a. agilis shows lower offspring size (egg mass, hatchling mass) and higher clutch mass relative to female mass than L. a. exigua, that is both possible ways to enhance offspring number are exerted. As the SSD difference is due to male size (smaller males in L. a. agilis), fecundity selection favouring larger females, together with viability selection for smaller size in both sexes, would explain the female-biased SSD and reproductive characteristics of L. a. agilis. The pattern of intraspecific life-history divergence in L. agilis is strikingly similar to that between oviparous and viviparous populations of a related species Zootoca vivipara. Evolutionary implications of this parallelism are discussed.
Roitberg, E.S. & Kuranova, V.N. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Orlova, V.F. & Eplanova, G.V. & Shamgunova, R.R. & Hofmann, S. & Zinenko, O.I. & Yakovlev, V.A. (2012) -
Using original and published data on female body length (SVL), clutch size, offspring mass, and other related traits collected in 43 populations from a larger part of Northern Eurasia we documented patterns of geographic variation of these traits and investigated the possible effects of reproductive mode, phylogeny, and climate. Oviparous popu- lations tend to have higher newborn mass than viviparous populations but these two groups do not differ for clutch size adjusted for female SVL. The latter parameter tends to increase in sites with warmer summer. Across study samples, SVL of gravid females tends to decrease in milder climates but several populations deviate strongly from this trend.
Roitberg, E.S. & Kuranova, V.N. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Orlova, V.F. & Eplanova, G.V. & Zonenko, O.I. & Shamgunova, R.R. & Hofmann, S. & Yakolev, V.A. (2013) -
The European common lizard, Zootoca vivipara, is the most widespread terrestrial reptile in the world. It occupies almost the entire Northern Eurasia and includes four viviparous and two oviparous lineages. We analysed how female snout-vent length (SVL), clutch size (CS), hatchling mass (HM), and relative clutch mass (RCM) is associated with the reproductive mode and climate throughout the species range and across the evolutionary lineages within Z. vivipara. The studied variables were scored for 1,280 females and over 3,000 hatchlings from 44 geographically distinct study samples. Across the species range, SVL of reproductive females tends to decrease in less continental climates, whereas CS corrected for female SVL and RCM tend to decrease in climates with cool summer. Both relationships are likely to indicate direct phenotypic responses to climate. For viviparous lineages, the pattern of co-variation between female SVL, CS and HM among populations is similar to that between individual females within populations. Consistent with the hypothesis that female reproductive output is constrained by her body volume, the oviparous clade with shortest retention of eggs in utero showed highest HM, the oviparous clade with longer egg retention showed lower HM, and clades with the longest egg retention (viviparous forms) had lowestHM. Viviparous populations exhibited distinctly lower HM than the other European lacertids of similar female SVL, many of them also displaying unusually high RCM. This pattern is consistent with Winkler and Wallin’s model predicting a negative evolutionary link between the total reproductive investment and allocation to individual offspring.
Roitberg, E.S. & Lotiev, K.Y. (1992) -
Roitberg, E.S. & Mazanaeva, L.F. & Ilyina, E. & Orlova, V.F. (2000) -
Die Echsenfauna Dagestans (südöstlicher Nordkaukasus, Russland) umfaßt 17 Arten, welche neun Gattungen in fünf Familien angehören (Gekkonidae - l, Agamidae - 4, Anguidae - 2, Scincidae – l und Lacertidae - 9 Arten). Für jede Art wurden detaillierte Verbreitungskarten mit Katastern in Dagestan (50 300 km2) erstellt. Einige Angaben zu den Habitaten, zur Häufigkeit sowie über die lokale Arealdynamik werden ebenfalls mitgeteilt.
Roitberg, E.S. & Orlova, V.F. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Kuranova, V.N. & Eplanova, G.V. & Zinenko, O.I. & Arribas, O. & Kratochvil, L. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Starikov, V.P. & Hofmann, S. & Böhme, W. (2021) -
Roitberg, E.S. & Orlova, V.F. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Kuranova, V.N. & Eplanova, G.V. & Zinenko, O.I. & Arribas, O. & Kratovil, L. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Starikov, V.P. & Strijbosch, H. & Hofmann, S. & Leontyeval, O.A. & Böhme, W. (2020) -
Reproductive mode, ancestry, and climate are hypothesized to determine body size variation in reptiles but their effects have rarely been estimated simultaneously, especially at the intraspecific level. The common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) occupies almost the entire Northern Eurasia and includes viviparous and oviparous lineages, thus representing an excellent model for such studies. Using body length data for >10,000 individuals from 72 geographically distinct populations over the species` range, we analyzed how sex-specific adult body size and sexual size dimorphism (SSD) is associated with reproductive mode, lineage identity, and several climatic variables. Variation in male size was low and poorly explained by our predictors. In contrast, female size and SSD varied considerably, demonstrating significant effects of reproductive mode and particularly seasonality. Populations of the western oviparous lineage (northern Spain, south-western France) exhibited a smaller female size and less female-biased SSD than those of the western viviparous (France to Eastern Europe) and the eastern viviparous (Eastern Europe to Far East) lineages; this pattern persisted even after controlling for climatic effects. The phenotypic response to seasonality was complex: across the lineages, as well as within the eastern viviparous lineage, female size and SSD increase with increasing seasonality, whereas the western viviparous lineage followed the opposing trends. Altogether, viviparous populations seem to follow a saw-tooth geographic cline, which might reflect the nonmonotonic relationship of body size at maturity in females with the length of activity season. This relationship is predicted to arise in perennial ectotherms as a response to environmental constraints caused by seasonality of growth and reproduction. The SSD allometry followed the converse of Rensch`s rule, a rare pattern for amniotes. Our results provide the first evidence of opposing body size—climate relationships in intraspecific units.
Roitberg, E.S. & Orlova, V.F. & Kuranova, V.N. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Zinenko, O.I. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Shamgunova, R.R. & Carretero, M.A. & Clasen, A. & Fokt, M. & Böhme, W. (2011) -
The snout-vent length (SVL), a conventional measure of overall body size in lizards and snakes, is used in a wide variety of ecological, evolutionary, and taxonomical studies. Trends in SVL variation are often analysed using data from several researchers (observers), but possible confounding effects due to inter-observer differences in measurement protocols have never been appropriately examined. This study reports inter-observer biases between eleven herpetologists who measured the same specimens of the Eurasian common lizards (21 adult specimens were examined by eight observers and additional 192 specimens by two observers). Intra-observer bias over time (1.5-15 months between measuring sessions) was also estimated. In the vast majority of comparisons, mean difference between the first author and another observer varied from −1.0 to +0.8 mm, or from −1.9 to +1.6% if expressed as a percent of the specimen’s SVL value. Some non-regular effects of sex and study sample on the studied bias were revealed, and their possible reasons are discussed. We are advising the researchers who intensively collect SVL and other morphometric data to consider testing intra-observer and inter-observer biases and to establish etalon samples available for re-examinations.
Roitberg, E.S. & Orlova, V.F. & Kuranova, V.N. & Clasen, A. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Böhme, W. (2006) -
Roitberg, E.S. & Recknagel, H. & Elmer, K.R. & Brana, F. & Rodriguez Diaz, T. & Zagar, A. & Kuranova, V.N. & Epova, L.A. & Nauwens, D. & Giovine, G. & Orlova, V.F. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Eplanova, G.V. & Arribas, O.J. (2024) -
1. Squamate reptiles are central for studying phenotypic correlates of evolutionary transitions from oviparity to viviparity because these transitions are numerous, with many of them being recent. Several models of life-history theory predict thatviviparity is associated with increased female size, and thus more female-biased sexual size dimorphism
Roitberg, E.S. & Rostova, N.S. (1999) -
Roitberg, E.S. & Smirina, E.M. (1995) -
Roitberg, E.S. & Smirina, E.M. (2005) -
Roitberg, E.S. & Smirina, E.M. (2006) -
Lacerta agilis boemica occupies a wide range of altitudes in the eastern North Caucasus (Russia). Snout-vent length (SVL) of 713 individuals of L. A. boemica from 9 localities was studied for inter-annual and microgeographic variation in adult body size and sexual size dimorphism (SSD). Means and 80th percentiles of SVL distributions were used in our comparisons and showed strongly correlated patterns of interlocality variation. The largest differences between samples from different years within populations were comparable in magnitude with those among localities. Among localities, adult SVL of males and females exhibited no increase with altitude. Moreover, males from the lowland localities reach a larger body length than those from the other sites. SSD was strongly associated with altitude, with the SSD index ov Lovich & Gibbons (1992) varying from -0.07/-0.09 in the lowland sites to -0.03/0.02 in the mountains. Higher growth costs of reproduction in females and a stronger intrasexual selection in males in the lowland sites relative to their counterparts from higher elevations were proposed to explain the altitudinal variation in SSD in L. a. boemica.
Age and growth in Lacerta agilis (ssp. L. a. boemica) and a closely related sympatric species L. strigata from the eastern North Caucasus, Russia were assessed by skeletochronology and back-calculation methods. We examined 320 specimens from one lowland, two submontane (both species), and two mountain (L. agilis) localities. Age structure, back-calculated snout-vent length (SVL) at hatching and subsequent hibernations, and asymptotic SVL were studied for sexual dimorphism, altitudinal variation and interspecific differences. Pattern of resorption of growth layers in bone and its possible effects on growth inferences from skeletochronological data were also considered. The back-calculated SVLs showed a good conformity to comparable field data. Mean and maximum SVL at the first hibernation clearly decreased with altitude. Within the same localities, these parameters were consistently higher in L. agilis than in L. strigata. Between the 1st and 2nd hibernations (the period of the highest increment in SVL in all study populations), L. strigata grew faster than the syntopic L. agilis. In the lowland locality, females of both species tended to grow slower than males between the 1st and 2nd hibernations, while at higher elevations they exhibited lower SVL increments than the males between the 2nd and 3d hibernations. This pattern, along with occurrence of gravid yearlings in the lowland locality (but not in the other sites), suggests an earlier onset of reproduction in the lowland populations compared to those from higher elevations. Asymptotic SVLs in the study populations tended to be larger in males than in females. In L. agilis these sexual size differences (SSD) varied among populations, being quite strong in the lowland site and negligible at the highest locality. The mountain populations (960 and 1900 m a.s.l.) of L. a. boemica exhibited higher mean age and longevity than the lowland and submontane populations (20-600 m a.s.l.) of both species; however, no clear altitudinal trend was found for adult SVL. Much of the variation revealed in this study, including the interlocality differences in SSD, can be related to the length of activity season, in line with recently published theoretical models and experimental studies stressing the role of proximate factors.
Roitberg, E.S. & Yu, L.K. (1992) -
Roitberg, E.S.& Smirina, E. (2004) -
Rojko, I. & Mesaric, M. & Sabolek, I. (2018) -
This paper gives an overview of the previously recorded reindeer species in the area of Međimurje County. Literature data for the period from 1884 to present has been presented. Literature data confirm the occurrence of 8 autochthonous reptiles: turtles (Emys orbicularis), Angius fragilis, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Coronella austriaca, Natrix natrix, Natrix natrix tessellata) and beech (Zamenis longissimus). There is also an aloft type of turtle (Trachemys scripta). In the future, research should focus on less well-researched and potentially present species such as reindeer (Vipera berus) and wall lice (Podarcis muralis), but also to research species of rare species such as green beans and beetles. The influence of foreign invasive reptiles on autochthon is also insufficiently researched, especially as there is an alohton type Pseudemys concin on the border of Slovenia and Croatia and it is possible to come to the Croatian side of the Mura River.
Radom se daje pregled dosad zabilježenih vrsta gmazova na području Međimurske županije. Predstavljeni su literaturni podaci za razdoblje od 1884. godine do danas. Literaturni podaci potvrđuju pojavnost 8 autohtonih vrsta gmazova: barske kornjače (Emys orbicularis), sljepića (Angius fragilis), livadne gušterice (Lacerta agilis), zelembaća (Lacerta viridis), smukulje (Coronella austriaca), bjelouške (Natrix natrix), ribarice (Natrix tessellata) i bjelice (Zamenis longissimus). Prisutna je i alohtona vrsta kornjače (Trachemys scripta). U budućnosti je istraživanja potrebno usmjeriti na slabije istražene, a potencijalno prisutne vrste kao što je riđovka (Vipera berus) i zidna gušterica (Podarcis muralis), ali i istražiti vrste čiji nalazi su rijetki, poput zelembaća i bjelice. Utjecaj stranih invazivnih vrsta gmazova na autohtone također je nedovoljno istražen, posebno jer je na granici Slovenije i Hrvatske zabilježena alohtona vrsta Pseudemys concinna te je moguće da dolazi i na hrvatskoj strani rijeke Mure.
Rojo, V. & Giovannotti, M. & Caputo, V. & González-Tizón, A.M. & Naveira, H. & Nisi Cerioni, P. & Galán, P. & Olmo, E. & Martinez-Lage, A. (2012) -
Rojo, V. & Giovannotti, M. & Naveira, H. & Nisi Cerioni, P.& González-Tizón, A.M. & Caputo Barucchi, V. & Galán, P. & Olmo, E. & Martinez-Lage, A. (2013) -
Rock lizards of the genus Iberolacerta constitute a promising model to examine the process of sex chromosome evolution, as these closely related taxa exhibit remarkable diversity in the degree of sex chromosome differentiation with no clear phylogenetic segregation, ranging from cryptic to highly heteromorphic ZW chromosomes and even multiple chromosome systems (Z1Z1Z2Z2/Z1Z2W). To gain a deeper insight into the patterns of karyotype and sex chromosome evolution, we performed a cytogenetic analysis based on conventional staining, banding techniques and fluorescence in situ hybridization in the species I. monticola, for which previous cytogenetic investigations did not detect differentiated sex chromosomes. The karyotype is composed of 2n = 36 acrocentric chromosomes. NORs and the major ribosomal genes were located in the subtelomeric region of chromosome pair 6. Hybridization signals of the telomeric sequences (TTAGGG)n were visualized at the telomeres of all chromosomes and interstitially in 5 chromosome pairs. C-banding showed constitutive heterochromatin at the centromeres of all chromosomes, as well as clear pericentromeric and light telomeric C-bands in several chromosome pairs. These results highlight some chromosomal markers which can be useful to identify species-specific diagnostic characters, although they may not accurately reflect the phylogenetic relationships among the taxa. In addition, C-banding revealed the presence of a heteromorphic ZW sex chromosome pair, where W is smaller than Z and almost completely heterochromatic. This finding sheds light on sex chromosome evolution in the genus Iberolacerta and suggests that further comparative cytogenetic analyses are needed to understand the processes underlying the origin, differentiation and plasticity of sex chromosome systems in lacertid lizards.
Rojo, V. & Martinez-Lage, A. & Giovannotti, M. & González-Tizón, A.M. & Ceroni, P.N. & Caputo Barucchi, V. & Galán, P. & Olmo, E. & Naveira, H. (2015) -
Satellite DNAs compose a large portion of all higher eukaryotic genomes. The turnover of these highly repetitive sequences is an important element in genome organization and evolution. However, information about the structure and dynamics of reptilian satellite DNA is still scarce. Two satellite DNA families, HindIII and TaqI, have been previously characterized in four species of the genus Iberolacerta. These families showed different chromosomal locations, abundances, and evolutionary rates. Here, we extend the study of both satellite DNAs (satDNAs) to the remaining Iberolacerta species, with the aim to investigate the patterns of variability and factors influencing the evolution of these repetitive sequences. Our results revealed disparate patterns but also common traits in the evolutionary histories of these satellite families: (i) each satellite DNA is made up of a library of monomer variants or subfamilies shared by related species; (ii) species-specific profiles of satellite repeats are shaped by expansions and/or contractions of different variants from the library; (iii) different turnover rates, even among closely related species, result in great differences in overall sequence homogeneity and in concerted or non-concerted evolution patterns, which may not reflect the phylogenetic relationships among taxa. Contrasting turnover rates are possibly related to genomic constraints such as karyotype architecture and the interspersed organization of diverging repeat variants in satellite arrays. Moreover, rapid changes in copy number, especially in the centromeric HindIII satDNA, may have been associated with chromosomal rearrangements and even contributed to speciation within Iberolacerta.
Roll, U. & Feldmann, A. & Grenyer, R. & Novosolov, M. & Allison, A. & Bauer, A.M. & Bernard, R. & Böhm, M. & Castro-Herrera, F. & Chirio, L. & Collen, B. & Colli, G.R. & Dabool, L. & Das, I. & Doan, T.M. & Glaw, F. & Grismer, L.L. & Hoogmoed, M. & Itescu, Y. & Kraus, F. & Breton, M. le & Lewin, A. & Martins, M. & Maza, E. & Meirte, D. & Nagy, Z.T. & Nogeira, C. de & Olive, P. & Orme, C.D.L. & Pauw (2018) -
Rollinat, R. (1895) -
Rollinat, R. (1897) -
Rollinat, R. (1900) -
Rollinat, R. (1901) -
Rollinat, R. (1904) -
Rollinat, R. (1905) -
Rollinat, R. (1934) -
Román, J. & Ruiz, G. & Delibes, M. & Revilla, E. (2006) -
Environmental factors determining the presence of the Carbonell lizard Podarcis carbonelli (Pérez–Mellado, 1981) in the Doñana area.— The Carbonell lizard (Podarcis carbonelli) is an Iberian endemism. The region of Doñana is its southernmost and more isolated stronghold. We used logistic regressions to investigate the factors conditioning the presence of this lizard in Doñana. All selected models retained the distance to the coast as the main variable. This variable is related with less humidity and more continental climatic conditions, including more extreme temperatures, when further from the coast. This climatic factor was observed both spatially and temporarily, with adult lizards drastically reducing their activity both in winter and in summer. We observed juveniles from June to January, with a maximum in September. Scrubland management was another important environmental factor affecting the presence of lizards. The probability of finding this species was higher where the scrubland was partially cleared, and lower in areas with a high plant cover (hygrophytic scrubland) or in areas with sparse vegetation (dune scrubland), probably due to a lower amount of incident light and less protection when moving between refuges, respectively.
Environmental factors determining the presence of the Carboneli lizard Podarcis carbonelli (Perez-Mellado, 1981) in the Donana area.-- The Carbonell lizard (Podarcis carbonelli) is an Iberian endemism. The region of Donana is its southernmost and more isolated stronghold. We used logistic regressions to investigate the factors conditioning the presence of this lizard in Donana. All selected models retained the distance to the coast as the main variable. This variable is related with less humidity and more continental climatic conditions, including more extreme temperatures, when further from the coast. This climatic factor was observed both spatially and temporarily, with adult lizards drastically reducing their activity both in winter and in summer. We observed juveniles from June to January, with a maximum in September. Scrubland management was another important environmental factor affecting the presence of lizards. The probability of finding this species was higher where the scrubland was partially cleared, and lower in areas with a high plant cover (hygrophytic scrubland) or in areas with sparse vegetation (dune scrubland), probably due to a lower amount of incident light and less protection when moving between refuges, respectively.
Romanini, M.G. (1953) -
Romano, A. & Bartolomei, R. & Conte, A.L. (2016) -
Romano, A. & Rosa, G. & Novaga, R. & Costa, A. (2022) -
Context Disentangling the effect of environment and biological interaction on community composition with observational data, within the environmental filtering framework, is challenging because the two processes produce non independent results. Objectives Adopting community N-mixture models with symmetric interactions, we aimed at estimating differential effects of landscape structure and biotic interactions on the local abundance of a Mediterranean reptile community including four lizards (Lacerta bilineata; Podarcis siculus; P. muralis; Chalcides chalcides) and two snakes (Hierophis viridiflavus; Natrix Helvetica). Methods We sampled reptiles for three consecutive years (2019–2021; 4 surveys/year) on 52 linear transects on a Mediterranean coastal landscape. We analyzed count data by means of a multi-species N-mixture model with symmetric interactions. Interactions within pair of species were estimated from the residual correlation of their realized abundances, after accounting for four landscape features: landscape heterogeneity calculated from land cover data, edge density of woody vegetation patches, tree cover density, net primary productivity. Results Most species displayed very low detection probability (p ~ 0.10). All species responded with different intensity and sensitivity to landscape predictors. Two biological interactions resulted significant: L. bilineata and P. siculus showed a positive interaction, while P. muralis and C. chalcides displayed a negative interaction. Conclusions Using community N-mixture models we demonstrated that, also with observational data obtained from a realized community, partitioning the filtering process of the landscape from the one of biotic interactions is possible.
Romano, M. & Limatola, E. (2000) -
In the ovary of the lizard Podarcis sicula, the micropinocytotic uptake of the yolk exogenous precursor (i.e., vitellogenin; VTG) occurs only in the reproductive period and involves the plasma membrane of ≥2000-μm oocytes. This paper analyzes the intrinsic proteins extracted from the plasma membrane of growing oocytes to identify the vitellogenin binding protein during the different stages of the annual ovarian cycle of this species. Despite the well-known ultrastructural changes of the oocyte plasma membrane, SDS–PAGE failed to show marked variation in the total number of membrane proteins during the most significant stages of oocyte auxocytosis. Nevertheless, ligand blotting, using homologous VTG and anti-VTG, revealed that an 115-kDa protein of the oocyte plasma membrane bound plasma vitellogenin only in the reproductive period (spring–summer) in both vitellogenic and nonvitellogenic oocytes. During the nonreproductive period, this molecule was never observed. However, it could be induced in the coldest months (winter) by hypophyseal gonadotropins.
Romer, A.S. (1942) -
Romero Aleman, M.M. & Monzon Major, M. & Plaza Perez, M.L. & Yanes, C. (1995) -
Some variants of the Golgi techniques have been used to study the possible origin and developmental sequence of astroglial cells in the lizard Gallotia galloti. the developmental sequence consists of progressive transformations of astroglial cells originating either from radial glia or from glioblasts. The so-called displaced radial glia, an intermediate cellular type between radial glia and astrocytes, indicate the radial glia/astrocytes transformation. Apparently, glioblasts also evolve into astroblasts that, in turn could develop into immature protoplasmic or fibrous astrocytes, precursors of mature protoplasmic and fibrous astrocytes, respectively. The present study confirms our previous ultrastructural and immunohistochemical studies on the same animal.
Romero Aleman, M.M. & Monzon Major, M. & Plaza Perez, M.L. & Yanes, C. (2010) -
Spontaneous regrowth of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons occurs after optic nerve (ON) transection in the lizard Gallotia galloti. To gain more insight into this event we performed an immunohistochemical study on selected neuron and glial markers, which proved useful for analyzing the axonal regrowth process in different regeneration models. In the control lizards, RGCs were beta‐III tubulin‐ (Tuj1) and HuCD‐positive. The vesicular glutamate transporter‐1 (VGLUT1) preferentially stained RGCs and glial somata rather than synaptic layers. In contrast, SV2 and vesicular GABA/glycine transporter (VGAT) labeling was restricted to both plexiform layers. Strikingly, the strong expression of glutamine synthetase (GS) in both Müller glia processes and macroglial somata revealed a high glutamate metabolism along the visual system. Upregulation of Tuj1 and HuCD in the surviving RGCs was observed at all the timepoints studied (1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postlesion). The significant rise of Tuj1 in the optic nerve head and optic tract (OTr) by 1 and 6 months postlesion, respectively, suggests an increase of the beta‐III tubulin transport and incorporation into newly formed axons. Persistent Tuj1+ and SV2+ puncta and swellings were abnormally observed in putative degenerating/dystrophic fibers. Unexpectedly, neuron‐like cells of obscure significance were identified in the control and regenerating ON‐OTr. We conclude that: 1) the persistent upregulation of Tuj1 and HuCD favors the long‐lasting axonal regrowth process; 2) the latter succeeded despite the ectopia and dystrophy of some regrowing fibers; and 3) maintenance of the glutamate‐glutamine cycle contributes to the homeostasis and plasticity of the system.
Romero Diaz, C. (2017) -
Romero M. (1997) -
Romero M. (1998) -
Romero-Alemán, M. & Monzón-Mayor, M. & Santos, E. & Yanes, C.M. (2013) -
We analysed the astroglia response that is concurrent with spontaneous axonal regrowth after optic nerve (ON) transection in the lizard Gallotia galloti. At different post-lesional time points (0.5, 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months) we used conventional electron microscopy and specific markers for astrocytes [glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), vimentin (Vim), sex-determining region Y-box-9 (Sox9), paired box-2 (Pax2)¸ cluster differentiation-44 (CD44)] and for proliferating cells (PCNA). The experimental retina showed a limited glial response since the increase of gliofilaments was not significant when compared with controls, and proliferating cells were undetectable. Conversely, PCNA+ cells populated the regenerating ON, optic tract (OTr) and ventricular wall of both the hypothalamus and optic tectum (OT). Subpopulations of these PCNA+ cells were identified as GFAP+ and Vim+ reactive astrocytes and radial glia. Reactive astrocytes up-regulated Vim at 1 month post-lesion, and both Vim and GFAP at 12 months post-lesion in the ON-OTr, indicating long-term astrogliosis. They also expressed Pax2, Sox9 and CD44 in the ON, and Sox9 in the OTr. Concomitantly, persistent tissue cavities and disorganised regrowing fibre bundles reaching the OT were observed. Our ultrastructural data confirm abundant gliofilaments in reactive astrocytes joined by desmosomes. Remarkably, they also accumulated myelin debris and lipid droplets until late stages, indicating their participation in myelin removal. These data suggest that persistent mammalian-like astrogliosis in the adult lizard ON contributes to a permissive structural scaffold for long-term axonal regeneration and provides a useful model to study the molecular mechanisms involved in these beneficial neuron–glia interactions.
Romero-Aleman, M. & Monzón-Mayor, M. & Yanes, C. & Arbelo-Galván, J.F. & Lang, D. & Renau-Piqueras, J. & Negrin-Martinez, C. (2003) -
Romero-Aleman, M. & Monzón-Mayor, M. & Yanes, C. & Lang, D. (2004) -
Reptiles are the only amniotic vertebrates known to be capable of spontaneous regeneration of the central nervous system (CNS). In this study, we analyzed the reactive changes of glial cells in response to a unilateral physical lesion in the cerebral cortex of the lizard Gallotia galloti, at 1, 3, 15, 30, 120, and 240 days postlesion. The glial cell markers glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), glutamine synthetase (GS), S100 protein, and tomato lectin, as well as proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were used to evaluate glial changes occurring because of cortical lesions. A transitory and unilateral upregulation of GFAP and GS in reactive radial glial cells were observed from 15 to 120 days postlesion. In addition, reactive lectin-positive macrophage/microglia were observed from 1 to 120 days postlesion, whereas the expression of S100 protein remained unchanged throughout the examined postlesion period. The matricial zones closest to the lesion site, the sulcus lateralis (SL) and the sulcus septomedialis (SSM), showed significantly increased numbers of dividing cells at 30 days postlesion. At 240 days postlesion, the staining pattern for PCNA, GFAP, GS, and tomato lectin in the lesion site became similar to that observed in unlesioned controls. In addition, ultrastructural data of the lesioned cortex at 240 days postlesion indicated a structural repair process. We conclude that restoration of the glial framework and generation of new neurons and glial cells in the ventricular wall play a key role in the successful structural repair of the cerebral cortex of the adult lizard.
Romero-Bevia, M. & Mateo, J.A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1999) -
The structure of the free-living population of the Giant lizard of El Hierro (Canary Islands, Spain) has been studied. The population seems to be composed of 83 juveniles, 45 females and 22 males, that gives an effective population size of N = 59.10. But, if females reach sexual maturity at larger body sizes, corresponding to an age of six years, as it seems the case in captivity individuals, the effective population size would drop to N = 29.33. We also observe a sex-ratio bias towards females, as well as a lower proportion of juveniles than expected. The possible causes of this population structure are discussed. Gallotia simonyi shows a clear sexual dimorphism in body size, as well as a significantly slower growth rate than other lacertid lizards of similar body size. We did not observe significant differences in the condition state of individuals from lower and higher altitudinal parts of the distribution area.
Romero-Diaz, C. & Breedveld, M.C. & Fitze, P.S. (2017) -
Climatic change is expected to affect individual life histories and population dynamics, potentially increasing vulnerability to extinction. The importance of genetic diversity has been highlighted for adaptation and population persistence. However, whether responses of life-history traits to a given environmental condition depend on the genetic characteristics of a population remains elusive. Here we tested this hypothesis in the lizard Zootoca vivipara by simultaneously manipulating habitat humidity, a major climatic predictor of Zootoca’s distribution, and adult male color morph frequency, a trait with genome-wide linkage. Interactive effects of humidity and morph frequency had immediate effects on growth and body condition of juveniles and yearlings, as well as on adult survival, and delayed effects on offspring size. In yearlings, higher humidity led to larger female body size and lower humidity led to higher male compared to female survival. In juveniles and yearlings, some treatment effects were compensated over time. The results show that individual responses to environmental conditions depend on the population’s color morph frequency, age class, and sex and that these affect intra– and inter–age class competition. Moreover, humidity affected the competitive environment rather than imposing trait-based selection on specific color morphs. This indicates that species’ responses to changing environments (e.g., to climate change) are highly complex and difficult to accurately reconstruct and predict without information on the genetic characteristics and demographic structure of populations.
Romero-Diaz, C. & Gonzalez-Jimena. V. & Fitze, P.S. (2014) -
Romero-Diaz, C. & Gonzalez-Jimena. V. & Fitze, P.S. (2019) -
The study of stress-related hormones as mediators of sexual selection has traditionally focused on the effect of glucocorticoids on male quality and competing ability. However, environmental stressors are expected to affect both males and females, and the strength of sexual selection might be affected by changes in female mating decisions, a hypothesis that has rarely been tested. Here, we investigated whether female common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) mating behaviour and mating preferences are affected by different levels of administered corticosterone and conditioned by the familiarity of their partners, which is known to influence Z. vivipara social behaviour. To this end, two females, one corticosterone-treated and one control female, were simultaneously presented with an unfamiliar male and the following day with either a familiar or an unfamiliar male. Females treated with corticosterone (Cort) were more aggressive towards males and mated less. Furthermore, copulation probability in Cort females, but not in control females, increased with body size. On the second day, Cort females only mated with familiar partners. In contrast, male behaviour towards females was not affected by treatment and only bigger males successfully copulated with Cort females. This shows that corticosterone directly affected female mating behaviour and mating preferences, while male mating behaviour was unaffected by the female`s level of corticosterone. Environmental and social stressors may affect reproductive strategies of females, the strength of sexual selection, and sexual conflict through their effects on female glucocorticoid levels, potentially in a wide range of species.
Romero, J.M.L. (2012) -
Romero, J.M.L. (2022) -
Romero, J.M.L. (2024) -
Romero, J.M.L. (2025) -
Romero, M. & Lutzmann, N. & Hartmann, M. (1998) -
Rönn, G. von (1986) -
Roobas, B., & Feulner, G.R. (2013) -
A localised population of Acanthodactylusboskianus lizards (n 50 ± 10) has been identifiedalong a wadi in the foothills of the Hajar Mountainsof the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Photographs of adult male, adult female, juvenile and adolescent individuals are presented for reference. This constitutes only the second report of A. boskianus from within the UAE and expands the habitat for that species from what has been described on the basis of most earlier records from the UAE and neighbouring northern Oman. The newly recognised A. boskianus population is associated with abandoned and eroded fields bordering a gentle wadi. Observation of foraging and foraging behaviour suggests that ants constitute the principal prey of this population, although termites were actively dug for and eaten and other, larger prey is probably taken opportunistically. The lizards are active primarily in the morning but some, particularly adolescents, also forage in late afternoon. Population evidence indicates that the reproductive season is extended but may be centered in fall and winter. Winter dormancy is possible but not confirmed. Our successful effort to find A. boskianus at a second, similar location leads us to suggest that the species has heretofore probably been overlooked and under-recorded, being more common than was previously thought. Ironically, however, its foothills wadi habitat is today under severe threat throughout the UAE.
Roobas, B., Feulner, G.R. & Y. Thakur (2015) -
Follow-up observation of a UAE study population of Acanthodactylus boskianus in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains has confirmed that this species does not hibernate in the UAE and that it breeds over an extended period, but possibly not during the UAE summer. We have also observed prey capture by lizards leaping into low shrubs and from rocks, predation on a large grasshopper and a medium-sized wasp, intra-specific aggression among males and females (including a dramatic and vicious encounter between two females), and burrowing by a gravid female. Video footage greatly enhanced our ability to observe and understand many of these behaviours. We also recorded, unexpectedly, a number of additional reptile species within the study area, including Spiny-Tailed Agamas (Uromastyx aegyptia leptieni) and the rarely observed Diadem Snake (Spalerosophis diadema cliffordii), a likely predator on A. boskianus.
Rooij, N. de (1915) -
Röösli, T. & Meyer, A. (0000) -
Rooy, P.T.J.C. van & Stumpel, A.H.P. (2003) -
The link between ecology and economies is manifest over the world as a result of long-term processes. But because these processes are long term, it is hard to prove the link. On Sardinia serious economic development was late to arrive, having occurred only over the last few decades. As a case study, research was carried out for 10 years on the state of nature as well as the economic growth in one of the least developed areas abutting the Gulf of Orosei on the east coast. Based on research and lasting attention to political affairs concerning the project, we formulate general recommendations for the area. In 1995, the Italian Government will be asked by the European Government to undertake serious steps to save endemics (especially herpetofauna) of Europe`s last pristine areas.
Rooy, P.T.J.C. van & Stumpel, A.H.P. (1995) -
The link between ecology and economies is manifest over the umrld as a result of long-term processes. But because these processes are long term, it is bard to prove the link. On Sardinia serious economic development was late to arrive, having occurred only over the last few decades. As a case study, research was carried out for 10 years on the state of nature as well as the economic growth in one of the least developed areas abutting the Gulf of Orosei on the east coast Based on research and lasting attention to political affairs concerning the projecg we formulate general recommendations for the area In 1995, the Italian Government will he asked by the European Government to undertake serious steps to save endemics (especially herpetofauna) of Europe`s last pristine areas.
Rosa, G. & Salvidio, S. & Trombini, E. & Costa, A. (2022) -
Reptile populations are relevant components of biodiversity in both temperate and tropical forests. However, in forest habitats reptiles are secretive and the complex structure of the environment makes it difficult to assess with confidence their abundance and density. In general, capture-mark-recapture (CMR) or distance sampling (DS) are used to estimate demographic parameters of reptiles in these complex habitats. CMR may be expensive in terms of time, materials and sampling effort, while DS is strongly biased when animals lying on the transect line are overlooked. In this study, we applied a combination of CMR and hierarchical distance sampling (HDS) to estimate the density of the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis), a widespread Mediterranean terrestrial reptile. We randomly placed linear transects in a deciduous woodland (i.e. Castanea sativa), in a coniferous plantation forest (Pinus nigra) and in a dry prairie habitat, and we applied a hierarchical mark-recapture distance sampling (HMRDS) protocol. Density estimates were similar between the deciduous woodland (47 individuals/ha) and the dry prairie habitat (44 individuals/ha), while markedly lower in the coniferous plantation forest (13 individuals/ha). HMRDS data, analyzed in a Bayesian framework, showed the importance of correcting for the assumption of complete detection on the transect line, in all the three habitat types. Therefore, our approach should be useful when assessing the density of small and cryptic terrestrial animals, not only in forest but also in habitat with an apparently less complex vegetation structure.
Rosa, H.D. (1999) -
Rosales, B. & Campos, F. & Hodar, J.A. & Camacho, I. (1992) -
Rosati, I. & Prisco, M. & Coraggio, F. & Valiante, S. & Scudiero, R. & Laforgia, V. & Andreuccetti, P.& Agnese, M. (2014) -
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide involved in multiple functions, including vertebrate reproduction. Recently, we reported the presence of PACAP in the testis of Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula during reproductive period (May–June). Herein we investigated the PACAP mRNA expression and the localization of PACAP/PACAP receptor system, in the other periods of the Podarcis reproductive cycle, namely in summer stasis, early autumnal resumption, mid-autumnal resumption, winter stasis, and spring resumption. Using biomolecular and immunohistochemical investigations, we demonstrated that PACAP mRNA was widely expressed in all germ and somatic cells; in summer stasis (July–August) and early autumnal resumption (September) in particular, the mRNA was always found in Sertoli cells while was transiently expressed in germ and in Leydig cells. Differently from the mRNA, the protein was always present in germ and somatic cells independently from the reproductive cycle phase. As PACAP, the PAC1 receptor was always present in the testis, except for the summer stasis (July–August) and the early autumnal resumption (September), when PACAP was lacking in germ and somatic cells (Leydig and Sertoli cells). The present results strongly suggest that PACAP/PAC1 receptor system is widely represented during the reproductive cycle of male lizard. The possible involvement of PACAP/PACAP receptor system in the control of spermatogenesis is discussed.
Rosati, I. & Prisco, M. & Lorenzo, M. de & Falco, M. de & andreuccetti, P. (2020) -
The goal of this study was to evaluate P450 aromatase localization in the epididymis of two different vertebrates: the lizard Podarcis sicula, a seasonal breeder, and Rattus rattus, a continuous breeder. P450 aromatase is a key enzyme involved in the local control of spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis and we proved for the first time that this enzyme is represented in the epididymis of both P. sicula and R. rattus. In details, P450 aromatase was well represented in epithelial and myoid cells and in the connective tissue of P. sicula epididymis during the reproductive period; instead, during autumnal resumption this enzyme was absent in the connective tissue. During the non-reproductive period, P450 aromatase was localized only in myoid cells of P. sicula epididymis, whereas in R. rattus it was localized both in myoid cells and connective tissue. Our findings, the first on the epididymis aromatase localization in the vertebrates, suggest a possible role of P450 aromatase in the control of male genital tract function, particularly in sperm maturation.
Rosati, L. (2013) -
Spermatogenesis is a process that takes place in the testis and is regulated by the hypothalamus-pituitary axis through the release of the pituitary gonadotropins FSH and LH. However, this process can be regulated also by local factors through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms. Among the molecules that act in the testis, there are PACAP (Pituitary Adenylate Cylcase-Activating Polypeptide), whose testicular concentration exceeds that of any other peptide, and VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide) (Li and Arimura, 2003), two neuropeptides belonging to the superfamily PACAP/glucagon/secretin, which includes also glucagon, GLP-1 (glucagon-Like-Peptide-1), GLP-2, GIP (Glucose-Dependent-insulinotropic polypeptide), GHRH (GH-Releasing Hormone), PHM (Peptide Histidine-Methionine) and secretin; they share the structure, distribution, functions and common receptors (Sherwood et al., 2000). PACAP is the member of the superfamily discovered by Miyata and his staff in 1989 from ovine hypothalamic extracts based on its ability to stimulate the cAMP formation in rat anterior pituitary cells; this neuropeptide exists in two different forms, PACAP27 and PACAP38, of 27 and 38 amino acids, respectively. Within this superfamily, the PACAP is of particular interest because its nucleotide and amino acid sequences are highly conserved in vertebrates, thus suggesting that its functions are essential for survival. Indeed, this neuropeptide is involved in multiple functions, such as the release of neurotransmitters, vasodilation, intestinal motility, secretion of insulin and histamine, proliferation and/or cell differentiation, induction and/or protection from apoptosis and reproduction (Vaudry et al., 2009; Vaudry et al., 2000). In the gonads, in particular in the testis, PACAP levels are higher than those of whole brain (Arimura et al., 1991), thus suggesting that PACAP is a molecule involved in the spermatogenesis control. VIP, that is the first member of the PACAP/glucagon/secretin superfamily to be isolated (Said and Mutt, 1970a, b), is a 28 ammino acid peptide; as PACAP, it has a sequence highly conserved during evolution; it is involved in different functions, as it acts as a neuromodulator, it is involved in the nervous control of cardiovascular, respiratory and gastro-intestinal functions, and in the release of PRL, LH and GH - 5 - from the pituitary. Moreover, VIP, as PACAP, is well represented within the gonads (Sherwood et al ., 2000; Csaba et al ., 1997). The role of both neuropeptides in the spermatogenesis control has to be clarified; anyway, the informations are available especially in mammals (Heindel et., 1992; Shioda et al., 1994; Romanelli et al., 1997; El- Gehani et al., 1998a, b, c; El- Gehani et al., 2000; Tanii et al., 2011; Nakamure et al., 2013). In non-mammalian vertebrates the investigations are still limited to a few species including the amphibian Triturus carnifex (Gobbetti and Zerani, 2002), the cartilaginous fish Torpedo marmorata (Agnese et al., 2013; Agnese et al., 2012) and the lizard Podarcis sicula; in such a species, Agnese et al. (2010) have shown that during the reproductive period PACAP and PAC1 receptor are widely distributed in both germ and somatic cells, thus suggesting a possible role of PACAP in the control of Podarcis sicula spermatogenesis. The aim of this PhD thesis is to determine the role of PACAP and VIP in the spermatogenesis of Podarcis sicula, the most common Italian reptile; the male of Podarcis sicula is a seasonal breeder, in which the various stages of spermatogenesis (mitotic, meiotic and differentiative phases) are naturally separated (Angelini and Botte, 1992). The investigation was carried out following two research lines: the first one evaluates the testicular expression/distribution of PACAP, VIP and their receptors in the different periods of the reproductive cyle; the second line studies the effects on spermatogenesis induced by PACAP, VIP and their receptors antagonists. I demonstrated that both neuropeptides are widely distributed in testis in all periods of reproductive Podarcis sicula cycle, and that they are involved in the control of testosterone and 17β-estradiol synthesis.
Rosati, L. & Agnese, M. & Fiore, M.M. di & Andreuccewtti, P. & Prisco, M. (2016) -
P450 aromatase is a key enzyme in steroidogenesis involved in the conversion of testosterone into 17β-estradiol. We investigated the localization and the expression of P450 aromatase in Podarcis sicula testes during the different phases of the reproductive cycle: summer stasis (July–August), early autumnal resumption (September), middle autumnal resumption (October–November), winter stasis (December–February), spring resumption (March–April) and the reproductive period (May–June). Using immunohistochemistry, we demonstrated that the P450 aromatase is always present in somatic and germ cells of P. sicula testis, particularly in spermatids and spermatozoa, except in early autumnal resumption, when P450 aromatase is evident only within Leydig cells. Using real-time PCR and semi-quantitative blot investigations, we also demonstrated that both mRNA and protein were expressed in all phases, with two peaks of expression occurring in summer and in winter stasis. These highest levels of P450 aromatase are in line with the increase of 17β-estradiol, responsible for the spermatogenesis block typical of this species. Differently, in autumnal resumption, the level of P450 aromatase dramatically decreased, along with 17β-estradiol levels, and testosterone titres increased, responsible for the subsequent renewal of spermatogenesis not followed by spermiation. In spring resumption and in the reproductive period we found intermediate P450 aromatase amounts, low levels of 17β-estradiol and the highest testosterone levels determining the resumption of spermatogenesis needed for reproduction. Our results, the first collected in a non-mammalian vertebrate, indicate a role of P450 aromatase in the control of steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis, particularly in spermiogenesis.
Rosati, L. & Agnese, M. & Lorenzo, M. di & Barra, T. & Valiante, S. & Prisco, M. (2020) -
Spermatogenesis is an extraordinarily complex process, regulated by several factors, which leads to the differentiation of spermatogonia into spermatozoa. Among vertebrates, several reports have been focused on the lizard Podarcis sicula, a seasonal breeder and a good model for the study of reproductive processes. The goal of this review is to resume all the available data about systemic and above all local control factors involved in the control of P. sicula testicular activity. During the seasonal reproductive cycle, the variation of the expression levels of these factors determines significant variations that induce the activation or blocking of spermatogenesis. The data supplied in this review, in addition to analyze the current literature regarding the main actors of Podarcis sicula spermatogenesis, will hopefully provide a basic model that can be used for further studies on the intratesticular interaction between molecular factors that control spermatogenesis.
Rosati, L. & Andreuccetti, P. & Prisco, M. (2017) -
VIP and its receptors (VPACRs) are largely investigated in vertebrate testis, as well as their functions in the control of spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. By contrast, a few data are available about the presence and role of VIP in the epididymis. The aim of the present paper was to investigate the localization of VIP and its receptors in the epididymis of two vertebrates: Podarcis sicula, a seasonal reproducer, and Rattus rattus, a continuous reproducer. By immunohystochemical investigation, we demonstrated for the first time that VIP and its receptors are widely represented in the epididymis of Podarcis sand Rattus; in particular in Podarcis, we showed that during the reproductive period, as well as in Rattus, VIP and its receptors are well represented in all the epithelial cells and the connective tissue of the epididymis; by contrast, during the non-reproductive period, VIP and its receptors are represented only in the connective tissue. The possible role of the VIP/VPACR system in the control of reproduction is discussed.
Rosati, L. & Prisco, M. & Fiore, M.M. & Santillo, A. & Sciarrillo, R. & Valiante, S: & Laforgia, V. & Coraggio, F. & Andreuccetti, P. & Agnese, M. (2015) -
Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a pleiotropic neuropeptide involved in different functions, including testosterone synthesis. Recently, we reported the presence of VIP in the testis of Podarcis sicula, throughout the reproductive cycle. Now, we investigated the effects of the VIP on steroidogenesis in significant periods of the Podarcis reproductive cycle: winter stasis, reproductive period, and summer stasis. Using VIP treatments in testis culture in absence or presence of receptors antagonists, we demonstrated for the first time that in P. sicula, VIP is involved not only in testosterone synthesis, as in mammals, but in 17β-estradiol synthesis too.
Rosati, L. & Prisco, M. & Fiore, M.M. di & Santillo, A. & Valiante, S. & Andreuccetti, P. & Agnese, M. (2016) -
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide that in mammalian testis is involved in the control of testosterone and 17β-estradiol synthesis. A similar involvement was recently postulated in the testis of a nonmammalian vertebrate, the wall lizard Podarcis sicula. Indeed, we reported the presence of PACAP and its receptors throughout the reproductive cycle within both germ and somatic cells. Now, we investigated the effects of PACAP on steroidogenesis in significant periods of Podarcis reproductive cycle: winter stasis, reproductive period and summer stasis. Using different in vitro treatments, in the absence or presence of receptor antagonists, we demonstrated that in P. sicula testis PACAP is involved in the control of testosterone and 17β-estradiol production. In particular we demonstrated that treatment with PACAP induced a testosterone increase only in stasis periods (winter and summer stasis); differently they induced a 17β-estradiol production in all periods analyzed (summer stasis, winter stasis and reproductive period).
Rosati, L. & Santillo, A. & Fiore, M.M. di & Andreuccetti, P. & Prisco, M. (2017) -
Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory protein (StAR), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), 5α-Reductase (5α-Red), P450 aromatase are key enzymes involved in steroidogenesis. Recently, we showed the expression and the localization of P450 aromatase in Podarcis sicula testis during the different phases of the reproductive cycle, showing its involvement in the control of steroidogenesis, particularly in 17β-estradiol synthesis. Now, we have investigated the presence and distribution of the other enzymes involved in steroidogenesis, i.e. StAR, 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD and 5α-Red, during three significant periods of the reproductive cycle: summer stasis (July–August), autumnal resumption (November) and reproductive period (May–June). We demonstrated for the first time that all these enzymes are always present in somatic cells (Leydig and Sertoli) and germ cells (spermatogonia, spermatocytes I and II, spermatids and spermatozoa) of Podarcis testis, mainly in spermatids and spermatozoa. The present results strongly suggest that in Podarcis testis both somatic and germ cells could be involved in local sex hormone synthesis and that 5α-Red and P450 could carry out a pivot role.
Rösch, J. (1913) -
Rosilici, D. & Fraticelli, F. (2001) -
The general sequence of the reproductive cycle and time intervals of different phases are described together with courting and mating behaviour patterns. Courtship includes head-body contacts and little headers, made by the male on the female; female is almost completely passive during the nuptial parade. Sexual activity, including copulation, begins soon after the winter latency and goes on for about two months. Clutches were laid from this interval of time. Mean clutch size was 9.75 (range 7-16 eggs).
Ross, N. (1997) -
A number of the subspecies were studied over several visits to Formentera and Ibiza. Podarcis pityusensis pityusensis is found on Ibiza. However, several animals of different colours were found not all of which conformed to the for that island described subspecies. Furthermore, on Formentera different forms of Podarcis pityusensis formenterae were observed. Three hybrids resulting from a cross between a male Podarcis lilfordi giglioli (Sa Dragonera) and a female Podarcis pityusensis formenterae were born under terrarium conditions. These hybrids proved to be fertile, after mating with Podarcis lilfordi lilfordi (Illa de l`Aire) males these three females laid 12 eggs. Due to a number of circumstances only one egg hatched but a normal young was produced. The various forms of Podarcis pityusensis are found not only on small islets but also on the main islands. Their presence seems to be dependent on the substrate. The hybrids and the various forms of Podarcis pityusensis on the main islands makes it questionable whether the classification of these animals into a great number of subspecies, or even into two species, is justified.
Ross, W. (1988) -
Ross, W. (1989) -
Field observations on Acanthodactylus schmidti, A. gongrorhynchatus and A. haasi are recorded. Areas of sympatry occur between A. schmidti and A. gongrorhynchatus; A. gongrorhynchatus is sympatric with A. haasi and all three species occur in sympatry in eastern Saudi Arabia. Behaviour and ecology have been observed where all the three species are sympatric. Known distribution is recorded for the three species with a map for A. gongrorhynchatus and A. haasi.
Rossi, R. & Sindaco, R. (2021) -
The herpetofauna of six Natura 2000 Sites of the Valle d`Aosta was investigated during the two-year period 2016-2017 on behalf to the Regione Autonoma Valle d`Aosta. The present paper describes the essential features of such monitoring, which updated the knowledge on the herpetofauna of the study areas. The results achieved constitutes the reference point for future monitoring under the Article 17 of the Habitats Directive for species of European concern. Methods for reptiles monitoring were: counts along standardized transects, visual encounter surveys (especially at natural refuges), the use of artificial shelters, and finding snake exuviae. Methods for monitoring amphibians were: searching for eggs, larvae and metamorphosed individuals, and calling surveys. Among the most important results, we highlight the occurrence of the only known intra-alpine population of Podarcis siculus and a new site record of Coronella girondica, a Western Mediterranean snake with a few isolated populations in the Alps; we confirmed in a single site the occurrence of water frogs Pelophylax lessonae/kl. esculentus, once widespread along the Dora Baltea valley but currently almost disappeared. Pelophylax lessonae/kl. esculentus have probably become extinct in a Natura 2000 Site.
Rössler, E. (1904) -
Rössler, E. (1919) -
Rössler, E. (1920) -
Rößler, R. (1991) -
This is a short report about a method which could help to save life of reptiles suffering by dystocia. The author describes how he pressed out an egg from a Jeweled Lacerta and a Common Chameleon with only his fingers.
Rößler, R. (1992) -
Rößler, R. (1993) -
Im Jahre 1987 erhielt ich aus Kasachstan sechs Eremias arguta. Diese Art ist neben Eremias velox die einzige ihrer Gattung, deren Verbreitungsgebiet auch den europäischen Kontinent erreicht. Das Vorkommen erstreckt sich vom Nordosten Rumäniens über den Süden der europäischen Sowjetunion, das sowjetische Zentralasien bis nach NW-China und die SW-Mongolei. Im Süden werden Transkaukasien und der nördlichste Iran erreicht. In der Türkei und in NO-China kommt die Art nicht vor.
Röstel, G.S. (1987) -
This is a short report about a method which could help to save life of reptiles suffering by dystocia. The author describes how he pressed out an egg from aJeweled Lacerta and a Common Chameleon with only his fingers.
Rotger Vallespir, A. (2016) -
Rotger, A. & Igual, J.M. & Genovart, M. & Rodriguez, V. & Ramon, C. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Bibiloni, G. & Rita, J. & Tavecchia, G. (2021) -
Recently isolated populations offer a good biological model to infer the evolutionary forces responsible for the current divergences across populations. We coupled genetic, morphometric, ecological, and demographic analyses from three island populations of the endemic Balearic Wall Lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, (Balearic archipelago, Spain) to infer the mechanisms underlying the observed differences in body size. For each population, we described plant community structure, derived a biotic capacity index, and used individual-based data on 1369 lizards captured and released during 6 yr (2009–2015) to estimate population density and body growth patterns. We used genetic data collected on 80 individuals (∼27 for each population) to infer genetic divergences across islets and population history. Body size divergences cannot be explained by the ecological or population characteristics. Individual growth was slower in the smallest island, where lizards reached the largest average body size. In addition to having the highest density, results suggested that resource availability does not constrain asymptotic body size, but the speed at which individuals reach it does. The Approximate Bayesian Computation used to infer population history from genetic data supported the occurrence of two bottlenecks in the islet with the highest anthropogenic footprint. We emphasize the need to integrate ecological and genetic data and the importance of considering the effects of past human disturbance as an additional force in being able to model present island fauna.
Rotger, A. & Igual, J.M. & Smith, J.J. & Tavecchia, G. (2016) -
The body growth rate in small reptiles is modulated by per-capita food resources and recent evidences suggested that this constraint is the mechanism underlying differences between cohorts. Per-capita food resources depend on population size and climatic factors but their relative role in explaining the variations in growth rate is unclear. We used morphological data collected over six years to model the body growth of an insular lizard (Podarcis lilfordi Günter, 1874). We used non-linear equations to describe the appropriate length-at-age relationship. For each sex, seasonal growth was observed and the oscillatory Von Bertalanffy curve was fitted to the data. Three age classes were recognized, and we investigated the relative role of density, spring rainfall and temperature in explaining the variation of the growth rate in each sex-by-age class. Results showed that the relative role of density and climatic factors varied according to the age considered. While population size and temperature had a negative effect in the growth rate of juveniles, rainfall had a positive influence for the growth of sub-adults. Adult growth was near zero and constant over time. The different role of density-dependent and climatic factors in explaining age-dependent growth rate provides an important insight in understanding lizard population dynamics and life-history tactics.
Rotger, A. & Igual, J.M. & Tavecchia, G. (2020) -
In many species with continuous growth, body size is an important driver of life-history tactics andits relative importance is thought to reflect the spatio-temporal variability of selective pressures.We developed a deterministic size-dependent integral projection model for 3 insular neighboringlizard populations with contrasting adult body sizes to investigate how size-related selective pres-sures can influence lizard life-history tactics. For each population, we broke down differences inpopulation growth rates into contributions from size-dependent body growth, survival, and fecund-ity. A life table response experiment (LTRE) was used to compare the population dynamics of the 3populations and quantify the contributions of intrinsic demographic coefficients of each populationto the population growth rate (k). Perturbation analyses revealed that the largest adults contributedthe most to the population growth rate, but this was not true in the population with the smallestadults and size-independent fertility. Although we were not able to identify a single factor respon-sible for this difference, the combination of the demographic model on a continuous trait coupledwith an LTRE analysis revealed how individuals from sister populations of the same species followdifferent life strategies and showed different compensatory mechanisms among survival, individ-ual body growth, and fertility. Our results indicate that body size can play a contrasting role even inclosely-related and closely-spaced populations.
Rotger, A. et al. (2023) -
Insular animals undergo a serie of behavioural and morphological changes promoted by the isolated character of the populations that are commonly listed under what is known as the ‘island syndrome’. Among these changes there is an increased survival, a lower growth rate and a lower fecundity compared with their mainland counterparts. The ‘island syndrome’ has been proved in mammals and birds, however whether lizards undergo a similar set of changes is a matter of debate. We used individual-based data collected using photoidentification techniques over ten years in two island populations of an endemic lizard inhabiting the Balearic archipelago, and estimate size dependent survival and the somatic their growth parameters. However, a measure of fertility cannot be obtained directly in the field. We used part of the data to estimate sizedependent functions and another part of the data to build a vector of lizard counts. These two set of data were used to couple an Integral Projection Matrix (IPM) with an Integrated Population Model (IPM) into an Integrated Integral Projection Model (IPM2), to estimate fertility as a latent parameter in each population. In the smallest island, population counts fluctuate little (population growth rate near stability: lambda~0.97) and the average annual survival was high. In agreement with the island syndrome, the model delivered a low estimate of fertility. In the second island, however, the population was characterized by large fluctuations with a population growth rate between 1.7 and 0.5). Contrary to the expectations the survival probability was lower and the percapita fertility higher. The population distribution was dominated by hatchlings and subadults while in the first population it was mainly made by adults. We took advantage of the integral and integrated modelling to estimate percapita fertility and showed that individuals in isolated population might exhibit very different strategies.
Rotllan-Puig, X. & Traveset, A. (2016) -
Biodiversity loss, including the decrease of diversity of ecological interactions, is known to reduce the capacity of ecosystems to cope with the effects of global change. Here we assessed whether the distribution and survival of two declining relict plant species, Daphne rodriguezii and Cneorum tricoccon, were affected by the mutualism disruption with their only seed-disperser and by climatic and habitat conditions. Due to the lack of data on demographic rates, we used an indirect approach to test these hypotheses. We used presence–absence data as response variables and took two distinct sets of predictors (i.e. habitat and topoclimatic conditions), which were hypothesized to be the main determinants of the demographic rates under question. With these two datasets we fitted species distribution models by means of MaxEnt. Such models were later used to build Combined Species Distributions Models (CM). For each plant species, these CM allowed evaluating the role of both climatic and non-climatic factors, such as the mutualism disruption. Results showed that both climate and habitat conditions determined the current distribution of the two species at a landscape scale. Additionally, the mutualism disruption between C. tricoccon and its native seed-disperser affected plant distribution, moving it to areas where a new alien disperser was present. This alien disperser modified the pattern of habitat selection by plants in terms of habitat quality, reducing their presence in suboptimal areas, which might be the determinant for their survival. Our findings highlight the need of a better understanding of the role of mutualisms within natural communities in order to undertake appropriate conservation actions on threatened plant populations. Furthermore, acting on key factors affecting plant–disperser disruptions (e.g. controlling invasive species) might help to mitigate the effects of global change on declining relict plants.
Rouag Rachid, M. (2012) -
Rouag, R. & Berrahma, I. & Luiselli, L. (2006) -
The large-sized lizard Timon pater (Lacertidae) has been recently recognised as a distinct species from the European ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus), and is endemic to Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. The ecology of this lizard is entirely unknown, and in this study detailed data on the diet composition and on the daily activity patterns, in spring and summer, are presented. The field study was carried out at the Parc National d`El Kala, northeastern Algeria. Food data were recovered by faecal pellet analysis, and daily activity patterns by standardised surveys along 1000-m-long line transects. In total, 164 T. pater pellets were collected and analysed, and 428 prey items were identified. The mean volume of the pellets collected in July and August was significantly less than that of the pellets collected in all the other months. The diet of Algerian T. pater was dominated by three prey categories (Coleoptera, Gastropoda, and Formicidae); Coleoptera and Formicidae were the most important prey types through the whole study period, whereas other prey types were important only in some periods (i.e. Gastropoda in August and Orthoptera in September). The diet composition did not change noticeably between spring and summer, and the same was true for the daily activity patterns. Overall, T. pater appeared remarkably similar to the European T. lepidus populations as far as dietary habits and daily activity patterns are concerned.
Rouag, R. & Djilali, H. & Gueraiche, H. & Luiselli, L. (2007) -
Food habits and daily activity patterns were studied in sympatric populations of the lizards Psammodromus algirus and Acanthodactylus erythrurus (Lacertidae) from the Parc National d’El Kala, north-eastern Algeria. In this area, these two species inhabited nearly the same microhabitats and were similar in terms of body length and weight. Both species were insectivorous, and fed primarily upon Coleoptera, Formicidae, and Diptera. The interspecific diet overlap was very high in terms of both the total number of prey items and the per cent of lizards containing a given food type. Null model analysis by Monte Carlo simulations (using the RA2 and RA3 algorithms) revealed that the high diet overlap values were not produced by chance. Daily activity patterns differed intraspecifically depending on the season, and interspecifically during both spring and summer. It is possible that the interspecific differences in daily activity patterns may help facilitating coexistence of the two study species. The high diet overlap may depend on the convergent eco-physiological needs of these two species in the arid environment, which forces them to apply a similar foraging strategy, i.e. preying on a few abundant and easily found prey sources.
Rouag, R. & Ziane, N. & Benyacoub, S. (2018) -
Habitat preferences were studied in sympatric populations of two Lacertids, Psammodromus algirus and Acanthodactylus erythrurus (Lacertidae) from the National Park of El Kala (north-eastern Algeria). Th e relationship between habitat physical structure and population densities was studied in order to establish eventual segregation between the two lizards. A difference exists between the two species in their distributions. Acanthodactylus erythrurus is a strictly terrestrial species, usually found on sandy and more open grounds than Psammodromus algirus which can penetrate dense vegetation and look for sunny locations by climbing on shrubs; a behavior which A. erythrurus does not control. Our results confi rm spatial segregation on a microhabitat scale, supporting the conclusions that microhabitat selection is an important factor in lizards community organization and contributing to reduce potential competition.
Rouag, R. & Ziane, N. & Sousa, M. de (2024) -
Algeria is situated at the crossroads between Europe and Africa. The northern part of the country is listed as an area of high biodiversity. Currently, the ecosystems (rivers, lakes, deserts, forests etc.) and the species are under more pressure than ever. The impact of humans is significant and many factors constitute a strong threat to this fauna, especially reptiles, which are the most vulnerable because of their low mobility. Thus, pollution, the drying up of wetlands and their conversion to agriculture have clearly affected the existence of many species. The herpetofauna of Algeria is one of the most diversified in the Mediterranean Basin, consisting of 104 species of which 16.98% are endemic. We suppose that the present list of reptilian fauna provided in this paper is not exhaustive and it is expected to include more species given the lack of research on reptiles in Algeria and its large area. Our dataset contains information on reptile occurrences in Algeria. The dataset is based on original research by the staff of the Laboratory of Environmental Sciences and Agroecology of Chadli Bendjedid University in Algeria. The conservation status of all recorded species is given.
Roudykh, I.A. & Grechko, V.V. & Ciobanu, D.G. & Kramerov, D.A. & Darevsky, I.S. (2002) -
The distribution of restriction sites in satellite DNA of 17 Caucasian rock lizard species of the genus Lacerta (Darevskia gen. nov., (Squamata, Lacertidae) was analyzed. The distribution patterns were shown to reflect the degree of satellite DNA evolutionary divergence, which could be revealed by taxonprint method, i.e., through the analysis of genomic DNA with a set of restriction endonucleases and subsequent computer-aided analysis. Thus, the taxonprint method offers an opportunity to examine the satellite DNA divergence in closely related species and infer the phylogeny of the species studied without reserting to costly and labor-consuming procedures. This is the advantage of using this technique at the early stages phylogenetic analysis of genomic DNA for rapid and effective estimation of relationships between closely related species as well as in the cases when DNA cloning and sequencing are too expensive or not feasible.
Roudykh, I.A. & Grechko, V.V. & Kramerov, D.A. & Darevsky, I.S. (1999) -
Roulet, F.C. (1959) -
Roussos, S.A. (2016) -
Roux, J. (1907) -
Roux, J. (1941) -
Rovatsos, M. & Kratochvíl, L. (2017) -
While the stability of sex chromosomes is widely accepted in viviparous mammals and birds, ectothermic vertebrates are still largely viewed as having frequent turnovers in sex determining systems. Frequent changes in sex determining systems in ectotherms could be problematic for field ecological studies as well as for breeding programs, as molecular sexing across a phylogenetically widespread spectrum of ectothermic vertebrates would not be possible. However, we recently documented that sex determining systems in three important reptile lineages (caenophidian snakes, iguanas, and lacertid lizards) are in fact highly conserved. 2.We applied a new molecular procedure to identify sex within each of these three lineages (encompassing altogether around 4,000 species, i.e. nearly 50% of the recent species of reptiles). This technique uses quantitative PCR (qPCR) to compare copy numbers of genes specific for their respective Z (in caenophidian snakes and lacertids) and X (in iguanas) chromosomes between male and female genomes. The DNA samples required can be collected relatively non-invasively. Unlike molecular sexing based on repetitive elements, this technique can be easily applied to previously unstudied species of these lineages, as the number of copies of protein coding genes linked to the differentiated sex chromosomes is evolutionary highly conserved in each. 3.We suggest that qPCR-based molecular sexing using the comparison of gene copy number is a practical choice for non-model species of caenophidian snakes, iguanas and lacertids. Morever, it should also soon be available for other reptile lineages with differentiated sex chromosomes.
Rovatsos, M. & Kratochvíl, L. & Altmanová, M. & Johnson Pokorná, M. (2015) -
Telomeres are nucleoprotein complexes protecting the physical ends of linear eukaryotic chromosomes and therefore helping to ensure their stability and integrity. Additionally, telomeric sequences can be localized in non-terminal regions of chromosomes, forming so-called interstitial telomeric sequences (ITSs). ITSs are traditionally considered to be relics of chromosomal rearrangements and thus very informative in the reconstruction of the evolutionary history of karyotype formation. We examined the distribution of the telomeric motifs (TTAGGG)n using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in 30 species, representing 17 families of squamate reptiles, and compared them with the collected data from another 38 species from literature. Out of the 68 squamate species analyzed, 35 possess ITSs in pericentromeric regions, centromeric regions and/or within chromosome arms. We conclude that the occurrence of ITSs is rather common in squamates, despite their generally conserved karyotypes, suggesting frequent and independent cryptic chromosomal rearrangements in this vertebrate group.
Rovatsos, M. & Vukic, J. & Altmanová, M. & Johnson Pokorná, M. & Moravec, J. & Kratochvíl, L. (2016) -
Sex chromosomes are believed to be stable in endotherms, but young and evolutionary unstable in most ectothermic vertebrates. Within lacertids, the widely radiated lizard group, sex chromosomes have been reported to vary in morphology and heterochroma- tinization, which may suggest turnovers during the evolution of the group. We compared the partial gene content of the Z-specific part of sex chromosomes across major lineages of lacertids and discovered a strong evolutionary stability of sex chromosomes. We can conclude that the common ancestor of lacertids, living around 70million years ago (Mya), already had the same highly differentiated sex chromosomes. Molecular data demonstrating an evolutionary conservation of sex chro- mosomes have also been documented for iguanas and caenophidian snakes. It seems that differences in the evolutionary conservation of sex chromosomes in vertebrates do not reflect the distinction between endotherms and ectotherms, but rather between amniotes and anamniotes, or generally, the differences in the life history of particular lineages.
Rovatsos, M. & Vukic, J. & Kratochvil, L. (2016) -
Among amniotes, squamate reptiles are especially variable in their mechanisms of sex determination; however, based largely on cytogenetic data, some lineages possess highly evolutionary stable sex chromosomes. The still very limited knowledge of the genetic content of squamate sex chromosomes precludes a reliable reconstruction of the evolutionary history of sex determination in this group and consequently in all amniotes. Female heterogamety with a degenerated W chromosome typifies the lizards of the family Lacertidae, the widely distributed Old World clade including several hundreds of species. From the liver transcriptome of the lacertid Takydromus sexlineatus female, we selected candidates for Z-specific genes as the loci lacking single-nucleotide polymorphisms. We validated the candidate genes through the comparison of the copy numbers in the female and male genomes of T. sexlineatus and another lacertid species, Lacerta agilis, by quantitative PCR that also proved to be a reliable technique for the molecular sexing of the studied species. We suggest that this novel approach is effective for the detection of Z-specific and X-specific genes in lineages with degenerated W, respectively Y chromosomes. The analyzed gene content of the Z chromosome revealed that lacertid sex chromosomes are not homologous with those of other reptiles including birds, but instead the genes have orthologs in the X-conserved region shared by viviparous mammals. It is possible that this part of the vertebrate genome was independently co-opted for the function of sex chromosomes in viviparous mammals and lacertids because of its content of genes involved in gonad differentiation.
Rozen-Rechels, D. & Agostini, S. & Badiane, A. & Meylan, S. & Le Galliard, J.-f. (2020) -
Behavioral fight responses to desiccation risk are important to predict the vulnerability of terrestrial animals to climate change and yet, they have received little attention so far. In terrestrial ectotherms, behavioral regulation of the water balance (i.e., hydroregulation) is likely to be plastic and may trade-off with thermoregulation behavior because water loss rates are generally higher in warmer environments and body temperatures. When low water availability and heat stress cause physiological dehydration, we expect to highlight a shift to behavioral water-conservation strategies including changes in activity patterns, microhabitat selection and thermoregulation strategies. Here, we compared the behavior of adult common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) in indoor arenas that either had a permanent access to water or underwent a one-week long experimental water restriction. Water-restricted lizards reduced their behavioral activity, selected more often cooler and wetter refuges during daytime, and performed less accurate thermoregulation than control lizards. The activity of water-restricted gravid females shifted towards the cooler and wetter early hours of the day. In addition, they had lower body temperatures and preferred lower body temperatures at the end of the experiment (i.e., thermal depression). Water-restricted lizards suffered from a mild physiological dehydration, water-restricted females had lower mass change compared to control ones, and water-restricted males lost weight. Heat stress was simulated every second day, which led to a range of heat avoidance and water conservation strategies independent from water restriction. 5. Altogether, these results confirm that chronic water restriction and dehydration induce responses towards water conservation that conflict with thermoregulation accuracy.
Rozen-Rechels, D. & Dupoué, A. & Meylan, S. & Decencière, B. & Guingand, S. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2018) -
Behavioral plasticity induced by maternal effects is crucial in adjusting offspring phenotype to match the environment. In particular, changes in water availability during development may initiate a range of behavioral responses, such as natal dispersal, but the contribution of maternal effects from water stress in explaining behavioral variation has been overlooked so far. In this study, we examined behavioral plasticity of juvenile common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) in response to changes in pre-natal and post-natal hydric conditions. We exposed pregnant mothers either to a moderate water restriction or to ad libitum access to water. We used neutral arena tests to measure repeatedly activity and space use behaviors of their offspring, either in dry or wet soil conditions, at two distinct life stages (juveniles and yearlings) in order to quantify behavioral flexibility, age differences, and personalities (consistent inter-individual differences). Juveniles and yearlings had greater exploration scores in dry than wet conditions regardless of the pre-natal conditions. Pre-natal water restriction and dry post-natal conditions enhanced thigmotaxis (i.e., a behavior related to anxiety) in juveniles. Maternal environment did not influence behavioral flexibility nor the behavior of yearlings. Behaviors were barely repeatable in juveniles and inconsistent through early life. Assuming that dry conditions may initiate flight responses, these results suggest complex relationships between the developmental timing of water stress, exploration and anxiety behaviors, and dispersal syndromes.
Rozen-Rechels, D. & Farigoule, P. & Agostini, S. & Badiane, A. & Meylan, S. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2020) -
1. Mechanistic models of terrestrial ectotherms predict that climate warming will induce activity restriction due to heat stress and loss of shade, leading to the extinction of numerous populations. Such models rely on the assumption that activity patterns are dictated by simple temperature thresholds independent of changes in water availability. However, changes in water availability may further influence thermoregulation behaviour of ectotherms through dehydration risk perception, changes in water balance or changes in microclimatic conditions. 2. Here, we experimentally assess the interactive effects of thermal conditions and water availability on activity patterns, shade selection and thermoregulation efficiency in a model ectothermic species. 3. Thermoregulation behaviour of adult common lizards Zootoca vivipara was monitored in outdoor mesocosms as we manipulated water availability, providing water as mist in the morning and free‐standing water during the daytime. We recorded operative temperatures and micro‐meteorological conditions to infer thermal constraints and dehydration risk. 4. Activity and shade selection were better predicted by continuous changes in thermal conditions and dehydration risk, respectively, than by threshold functions. In addition, water supplementation increased activity in males and reduced shade selection in both sexes, most probably as a behavioural response to the perception of a stronger dehydration risk. Water supplementation also influenced the thermal quality of the environment, which in turn altered daily activity patterns and thermoregulation statistics. 5. This demonstrates that dual effects of heat and water stress on activity patterns may lead to stronger activity restriction as a result of climate change than currently predicted.
Rozen-Rechels, D. & Rutschmann, A, & Dupoué, A. & Blaimont, P. & Chauveau, V. & Miles, D.B. & Guillon, M. & Richard, M. & Badiane, A. & meylan, S. & Clobert, J. & Galliard, J.F. le (2020) -
Behavioral thermoregulation is an efficient mechanism to buffer the physiological effects of climate change. Thermal ecology studies have traditionally tested how thermal constraints shape thermoregulatory behaviors without accounting for the potential major effects of landscape structure and water availability. Thus, we lack a general understanding of the multifactorial determinants of thermoregulatory behaviors in natural populations. In this study, we quantified the relative contribution of elevation, thermal gradient, moisture gradient, and landscape structure in explaining geographic variation in thermoregulation strategies of a terrestrial ectotherm species. We measured field‐active body temperature, thermal preferences, and operative environmental temperatures to calculate thermoregulation indices, including thermal quality of the habitat and thermoregulation efficiency for a very large sample of common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) from 21 populations over 3 yr across the Massif Central mountain range in France. We used an information‐theoretic approach to compare eight a priori thermo‐hydroregulation hypotheses predicting how behavioral thermoregulation should respond to environmental conditions. Environmental characteristics exerted little influence on thermal preference with the exception that females from habitats with permanent access to water had lower thermal preferences. Field body temperatures and accuracy of thermoregulation were best predicted by the interaction between air temperature and a moisture index. In mesic environments, field body temperature and thermoregulation accuracy increased with air temperature, but they decreased in drier habitats. Thermoregulation efficiency (difference between thermoregulation inaccuracy and the thermal quality of the habitat) was maximized in cooler and more humid environments and was mostly influenced by the thermal quality of the habitat. Our study highlights complex patterns of variation in thermoregulation strategies, which are mostly explained by the interaction between temperature and water availability, independent of the elevation gradient or thermal heterogeneity. Although changes in landscape structure were expected to be the main driver of extinction rate of temperate zone ectotherms with ongoing global change, we conclude that changes in water availability coupled with rising temperatures might have a drastic impact on the population dynamics of some ectotherm species.
Rúa, M. & Galán, P. (2003) -
We studied the reproductive ecology of a population of the lacertid lizard Lacerta monticola at a lowland location in A Coruña (NW Spain) from 1997 to 2002. The timing of the reproductive cycle was examined based on mark-recapture records of individual lizards in the eld. The characteristics of the eggs and hatchlings were obtained from clutches laid in the laboratory by pregnant females that were temporarily removed from the study area. Our results indicate that mating took place between late March and July. The smallest female with signs of sexualmaturity had a snoutvent length (SVL) of 52.4 mm and the smallest male was 50.7 mm. Sexual maturity was attained at the age of 2 years by 41% of the individuals, while the remaining 59% of the lizards matured at the age of 3 years. The laying period occurred between June and the beginning of August considering all years. About 61% of the reproductive females produced a single clutch annually, while 39% of the females produced two clutches per year. Females that produced two clutches were generally larger (average SVL D 70.9 mm) than those that laid a single annual clutch (average SVL D 62.6 mm). The mean clutch size was 6.4 eggs (range 4-9). Both clutch size and clutch mass increased signi cantly with female SVL. The mean egg mass in a clutch decreased signi cantly with clutch size. Hatching occurred between August and September. Hatching success in the laboratory was 71.7%. The mean SVL was higher in female hatchlings than in males.
Rubino Hispán, M.V. (2012) -
Rubio de Lucas, J.L. (2023) -
I report a cannibalism event in an urban population of Podarcid virescens (Lacertidae). The species is the only lacertid lizard in the site: an artificial wall in Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, where the lizard bask in winter sunny days; mostly adults). Within an ongoing study on the trophic ecology of the species, I found a piece of tail in a fecal pellet (29 scale whorls). The sample was dropped in february2023. The detailed examination of the piece (scales morphology and diameters of the piece of tail) allows to identify it as a distal part of the tail of a young individual. The possibility of the scant provenance from Tarentola mauritanica (Phyllodactylidae), scarcely present in the site, was discarded by morphochemical study of the fecal pellet (work in prep.) The current available data: frequency of the predation event (relatively high at the moment), age/SVL of the victim, and season of occurrence, might preliminarily support the predominant hypothesis on lizards’ cannibalism: young individuals as victims, coincident with low prey availability and when individuals must face winter environmental conditions. If so, cannibalism in this Podarcis virescens population (not necessarily in other species) might be important on population structure (agespatial segregation), and population dynamics.
Rubio, J.L. (1996) -
Rubio, J.L. (1997) -
Rubio, J.L. (2002) -
Rubio, J.L. (2014) -
Rubio, J.L. (2018) -
Rubio, J.L. & Alonso-Alumbreros, A. (2021) -
Cannibalism is a widespread behavior, although relatively less reported in reptiles than other taxa. Many studies indicate its importance in population regulation and life history of the species concerned, while others regard it as an opportunistic behavior. We present the first report of cannibalism in the Spanish Algyroides (Algyroides hidalgoi), a small and stenotopic lacertid lizard that occupies rocky shaded and humid localities in a reduced distribution area in the southeastern mountains of the Iberian Peninsula. Within an ongoing study of the species trophic ecology, we found tail-scales of this lizard within a fecal pellet. By studying the morphology and microornamentation of the scales, we identified the victim as an adult conspecific, and we discuss the implications of the event within the framework of the particularities of the species. While cannibalism by lizards has been associated mainly with high lizard population densities and unproductive and predator-scarce environments (mainly islands), the Spanish Algyroides shows nearly the opposite characteristics. The scales found represent a very small proportion of the studied ingested prey. Cannibalism seems not to have important demographic implications in this species. The case adds to other cannibalism reports that do not find adaptive value of this behavior in lizards, and contributes to the discussion found in the literature (opportunism vs adaptation) stressing the need of further research.
Rubio, J.L. & Carrascal, L.M. (1992) -
Rubio, J.L. & Carrascal, L.M. (1994) -
We study the habitat selection of Algyroides marchi, a small lizard endemic to the southeastern mountains of the Iberian Peninsula whose populations are concentrated in a few small localities. Three spatial scales of study were used to analyse the different factors affecting the species distribution patterns: regional scale, local scale and within-habitat use of different substrates. The results obtained at these different spatial scales showed a high consistency, suggesting that the same ecological pressures probably acted at different scales. Localities occupied by A. marchi were characterized by high altitude, high geomorphological complexity, northern aspect, high cover of large rocks, and presence of water. Density of A. marchi in a favourable locality was 213 adult-subadult lizards/ ha. Abundance and use of space of A. marchi (at local and individual levels) were directly associated with extent of water (streams and small pools) and the presence of large rocks, and inversely with hours of direct solar radiation and cover of small stones and vegetation. Considering the habitat selection of A. marchi and the management practices within its geographical range, potential risks for the conservation of the species are identified.
Rubio, J.L. & Martin, V. (2017) -
Peripheral populations are considered vulnerable but important for conservation. The Spanish algyroides is a small and endangered lacertid lizard, endemic to a small area in the southeastern mountains of the Iberian Peninsula. It is a stenotopic species that will typically inhabit shaded and humid microhabitats in enclosed rocky situations. These habi¬tat preferences relate to a very low thermal inertia and high evaporative water loss consistent with its small body size. Its patchy distribution is delimited by dryer and warmer lowlands. Newly detected localities seemed to expand its known dis¬tribution range, providing a contact zone with core populations. We studied the habitat selection and conservation status of populations living in the border zone, produced a species distribution model of the new area, and compared border ver¬sus core structural and environmental variables. The results confirmed the predicted occurrence, showing no differences in border vs. core selected habitat characteristics. From the perspective of habitat selection alone, edge effects and local adaptation seem insignificant. This could be related to the ‘hard-type edge’ and ‘two-patch system’ of the small distribu¬tion of this species. Detected alterations of the habitat in this border area were mainly road and forest track construction, urbanisation, and livestock grazing. In the longer term, aridification of the area due to the global climate change could po¬tentially gain importance, considering the dependency of the species on humid habitats, and the proximity of the edge of its distribution to the uninhabitable lowlands that determine its range limits. It is of great importance to identify the shape of the whole edge of this species’ range, effect in-depth evaluations, and monitor its conservation status.
Rubio, J.L. & Palacios, F. (1986) -
Since the recent discovery of this Iberian endemic, with an area of distribution in the Alcaraz and Cazorla Mountains (provinces of Albacete and Aen, respectively, Spain), the few communications on the species have been dedicated mainly to biometric and systematic aspects contributed the first data on the reproduction of this lizard. The existence of a single egg-laying period (in the first half of July), postulated in this paper on the basis of paretial data of the activity period, was contradicted by the findings of Eickhorst et al. (1979), who found young specimens of small size in the month of August and have suggested a different reproductive cycle. In the present communication, the variation of the genital tract throughout the activity period was studies, data on egglaying were obtained and the age of the youngest specimens was determined by the skeletochronological method until now in the bibliography.
Rubio, J.L. & Palacios, F. (1998) -
Rubio, J.L. & Ruiz, J.P. (1986) -
After the study of the reproductive cycle of Algyroides marchi Valverde, 1858 in the Alcaraz Mountains, we considered the multivariate analysis of a series of morphologic and sexual features throughout the reproductive cycle to be of interest. The objective was to be detect possible relations between variables presumably associated with the sexual cycle and direct indicators of this cycle.
Rubio, X. (2009) -
Rüblinger, B. (2006) -
Rubo, V. et al. (2023) -
In the last two decades, different species of Ophidia from the Iberian Peninsula have arrived in the Balearic Islands. In Mallorca, due to the ancient introduction of the false smooth snake (Macroprotodon mauritanicus) and the viperine water snake (Natrix maura), snakes are not listed as invasive species. Currently, three species of snakes have been recently introduced in Mallorca: the horseshoe snake (Hemorrhois hippocrepis), the ladder snake (Zamenis scalaris) and the Montpellier snake (Malpolon monspessulanus). Even though the latter has a reduced distribution, it generates greater social alarm due to its large size, its appearance and behaviour. In 2018, Servicio de Sanidad y Control de Fauna del Consorcio para la Recuperación de Fauna de las islas Baleares in collaboration with Servicio de Protección de Especies of Conselleria de Medi Ambient i Territori started the first campaign to control introduced Ophidia in Mallorca. In the case of the Montpellier snake, there were only some sighting data and some unusual captures by Centro de Recuperación de Fauna Silvestre of COFIB. With these data, the first campaign was initiated in the municipality of Alcudia, where the highest number of warnings and captures coincided. The aim of this campaign was: (1) to confirm its establishment, (2) in case its presence was confirmed, to assess the need to control. 35 traps were distributed and 29 specimens were captured in 6067 days of trapping. So, not only was its presence confirmed in this area, but the need for control was shown. In the following campaigns, 41, 33, 18 and 38 specimens have been captured during the years 20192022, respectively. These data confirm the presence of a stable population of Montpellier snake in this area of Mallorca. During these years the campaigns have focused on: (1) reducing the density of snakes, (2) improving the knowledge of the distribution area, (3) to manage all the notified sightings of this species. Thanks to this last point, the presence of the Montpellier snake has been confirmed in other municipalities of Mallorca, and in some cases, this is correlated with the movement and importation of ornamental trees. A better knowledge of the Montpellier snake’s distribution and interaction with the environment is essential to adjust the management tools used in the forthcoming years.
Ruchin, A.B. & Maysova, A.N. & Ryzhov, M.K. (2009) -
The items of information on a biology of a lizard Lacerta agilis in Mordovia (Volga basin) are resulted. This species is eurysynusic on terrain of republic and is marked in 136 recording stations. Meets basically on the open places (in rarefied dry forests, on margins, on shoulders of roads, on declines of ravine, girders and banks). The activity diphasic with spikes in 10 and 18 hours. The basis of a ration is made Orhthoptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera larvae, Hymenoptera and Diptera. The majority of them are phytophagans. Maximum number of objects of a feed the lizard consumes in June and July.
Ручин, А.Б. & Майсова, А.Н. & Рыжов, М.К. (2009) -
Приводятся сведения о биологии прыткой ящерицы Lacerta agilis в Мордовии (бассейн Волги). Этот вид широко распространен по территории республики и отмечен в 136 пунктах наблюдения. Обитает в основном на открытых местах (в разреженных сухих лесах, на опушках, на обочинах дорог, на склонах оврагов, балок и насыпей). Активность двухфазная с пиками в 10 и 18 ч. Основу рациона составляют прямокрылые, жуки, личинки бабочек, перепончатокрылые и двукрылые. Большинство из них являются фитофагами. Максимальное число объектов питания ящерица потребляет в июне и июле.
Ruchin, A.B. & Ryzhov, M.K. (2006) -
Ручин, А.Б. & Рыжов, М.К. (2006) -
Ruchin, A.B. & Ryzhov, M.K. (2008) -
Ручин, А.Б. & Рыжов, М.К. (2008) -
Ruchin, A.B. & Vechkanov, V.S. & Ryzhov, M.K. (2009) -
In article data about the biotopes a sand lizard within of two rivers Moksha and Sura basin are resulted. The relative estimation of number of a species in various habitats is given.
А.Б. Ручин, В.С. Вечканов, М.К. Рыжов (2009) -
статье приведены сведения о биотопах прыткой ящерицы в пределах бассейнов двух рек Мокши и Суры. Дается относительная оценка численно- сти вида в различных местах обитания.
Rucner, D. & Rucner, R. (1971) -
Rudik, A.M. (1986) -
Several species of the green lizard group of the Caucasus (Lacerta tritineata, L. strigata and L. agilis) occur sympatrically. However, the reproductive isolating mechanisms prevent the hybridization. Various kinds of possible mechanisms, both premating (habitat isolation, differences in the breeding period, mating behaviour, including visual, sound, tactile and chemical communications, sizes) and postmating (low amounts of fertilized eggs, hybrid inviability) are discussed. The author provides new data on artificial hybridization of the three species (table 3).
Rueda Núnez, A. (2014) -
In order to collect information about the popular beliefs regarding amphibians and reptiles, some people from different villages in all the regions of Albacete (Castilla-La Mancha) were interviewed. Subsequently, several hypotheses have been put forward in order to explain in some way these beliefs, those of which are in their majority due to religious superstitions, mistakes of perception, or the credibility given to oral tradition so long ago.
Ruffle, W.G. (1949) -
Rugiero, L. (1993) -
Rugiero, L. (1994) -
Composition of the prey in Ruin Lizards, Podarcis sicula (RAFINESQUE-SCHMALTZ, 1810), from a coastal dune in Central Italy was studied. Analysis of the fecal pellets of 31 lizards (7 females, 24 males) captured in February and March revealed: number of prey items per lizard (x = 3,13 + 2,71 SD); trophic niche breadth according to SIMPSON (3,15); proportional number of prey items (Gastropoda 8%, Arachnida 9%, Isopoda 48%, Insecta 23%, others 12%; 90% of them all being flightless forms).
Rugiero, L. (1995) -
Above-ground activity of wall lizard (P. muralis) was studied in an urban habitat during wintertime. The winter above-ground activity of lizards was rather regular, though not intense as in the rest of the year. Active lizards were found in all of the sampling dates. The main behavior was thermoregulation, but other activities such as hunting and fighting were also recorded. Differences in the intensity of winter activity in relation to sampling date, lizard age and sex were also studied.
Rugiero, L. (1997) -
In some lizard species tail loss can involve a shift in defensive strategy, resulting in decrease of the escape dis- tance. In this study I examined whether tail loss influences escape behaviour of the Common Wall Lizard, Podarcis muralis LAURENTI, 1768. Data were obtained from a population inhabiting a forested area situated about 17 km east of Rome (Latium, Central Italy). A total of 77 observations was collected. Results of this study seem to show that tail loss does not influence escape distance in P. muralis since defensive behaviour of specimens with intact tail was simi- lar to that of specimens which had lost their tail. Escape distance was not affected by sex and body size, but was by vegetation coverage level.
Rugiero, L. & Capula, M. & Dendi, D. & Petrozzi, F. & Fa, J.E. & Funk, S.M. & Burke, R.L. & Luiselli, L. (2021) -
A body plan (bauplan) is a suite of morphological characters shared by phylogenetically related animals at some point during their development. Despite its value, the bauplan concept is still rarely employed to characterize functional groups in community ecology. Here, we examine habitat use and spatio-temporal activity correlates of an entire seven species community of lizards with different bauplans. The study was carried out in three locations in central Italy, encom passing a complex landscape with a patchy mosaic of a wide variety of habitats and microclimates. We tested four hypotheses regarding niche breadth, habitat use, and activity patterns. The first hypothesis, niche complementarity, in which species with similar body shapes should non-randomly partition available habitats, was not supported. By contrast, the hypotheses that larger bodied species should have a wider niche breadth, that slower species should inhabit habitat types of higher cover, and species inhabiting open sunny habitats should exhibit more seasonally variable activity patterns, were all supported by the data. Sympatric lizard communities in our study area were clearly organized by autecological constraints and eco-physiological attributes.
Rugiero, L. & Capula, M. & Vittorio, M. di & Dendi, D. & Meek, R. & Luiselli, L. (2021) -
Habitat modification is a major factor in the decline of reptile populations. The degree of the decline has been shown to be directly related to the intensity of habitat modification. Farming practices and urbanization are just two of the factors involved indicating that the development of practices that minimize or cancel anthropogenic impacts is urgently needed to prevent further declines. This requires knowledge of population ecology of reptiles in both disturbed and pristine habitats. In this paper, we describe aspects of green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) population ecology in a forest–pasture relatively pristine mosaic habitat in central Italy and a fragmented habitat in western France. In Italy, habitat niche overlap was very high between males and females but very low between males and juveniles. For male and female abundances, general linear models showed that the adult abundances increased with the increase of Rubus bushes, whereas juvenile abundance increased with the increase of Spartium bushes. Contingency table analysis showed that juveniles were also much more frequently observed in grasslands than adults of either sexes. The observed ontogenetic structural niche pattern was likely due to intraspecific competition avoidance, competi tion interference, and cannibalism. The persistence of the same patterns across years demonstrates a temporal stability of the ontogenetic structural niche pattern. Over the length of the study period, population densities were stable in the Italian population, but densities were much higher by around five times in the hedgerow in the fragmented habitat in France. In the hedgerow, monthly lizard presence was uneven, with the greatest number of sightings in June and July. Overall, our study provided no support for the notion that lizard abundance/density should be lower in modified compared to unmodified habitats, and clearly revealed that a careful management of the hedgerows is crucial for the conservation of this lizard species in agro-forest ecosystems.
Rugiero, L. & Luiselli, L. (2006) -
Rugiero, L. & Luiselli, L. (2007) -
Rui, J. & Wang, Y. & Nie, L. (2009) -
Squamata is the most diversified reptilian order that has been traditionally classified into three suborders - Lacertilia, Serpentes and Amphisbaenia in which Lacertilia have about 16-19 families. But the phylogenetic relationships among major groups of Lacertilia remain controversial. In this paper, the complete mitochondrial DNA sequence of Eremias brenchleyi was determined by using long-and-accurate PCR (LA-PCR). The mtDNA sequence is 19 542 bp, making it the longest mitochondrial genome in squamates species reported so far. It shows the typical vertebrate arrangement of genes. The control region of E. brenchleyi was characterized by two conspicuous 65 bp and 56 bp tandem repeats at its 5′ and 3′ terminus respectively. In order to study the higher level relationships of squamates, the phylogenetic study including all currently available squamates mitochondrial sequences was carried out. We obtained a relationship of 16 families of lizards (Lacertidae, Scincidae, Iguanidae, Chameleonidae, Agamidae, Trogonophidae, Bipedidae, Shinisauridae, Helodermatidae, Amphisbaenidae, Gekkonidae, Varanidae, Anguidae, Xantusiidae, Rhineuridae, Cordylidae) and 8 families of Serpentes. The internal relationships within this group yielded high bootstrap support and were more congruent with morphological analyses.
Ruiter, M. de (1996) -
Ruiz de Infante Anton, J. & Rotger, A. & Igual, J.M. & Tavecchia, G. (2013) -
Animal density, despite being conceptually simple, it is one of the most difficult parameter to measure in the field. We compared density estimates of a lizard, Podarcis lilfordi derived by line transects with those from a simultaneous capture–recapture study in three islands of the Balearic archipelago (Spain). The two methods delivered similar results but have different pitfalls and advantages. Line-transects provided a fast and economic method, but density estimates changed over space and time. On the other hand capture-recapture techniques were time consuming, but estimates were similar over the sampling days and showed lower variances.
Ruiz Minano, M. & While, G.M. & Yang, W. & Burridge, C.P. & Sacchi, R. & Zuffi, M. & Scali, S. & Salvi, D. & Uller, T. (2021) -
Climate can exert an effect on the strength of sexual selection, but empirical evidence is limited. Here, we tested whether climate predicts the geographic distribution and introgressive spread of sexually selected male color ornamentation across 114 populations of the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis. Coloration was highly structured across the landscape and did not reflect genetic differentiation. Instead, color ornamentation was consistently exaggerated in hot and dry environments, suggesting that climate-driven selection maintains geographic variation in spite of gene flow. Introgression of color ornamentation into a distantly related lineage appears to be ongoing and was particularly pronounced in warm climates with wet winters and dry summers. Combined, these results suggest that sexual ornamentation is consistently favored in climates that allow a prolonged reproductive season and high and reliable opportunities for lizard activity. This pattern corroborates theoretical predictions that such climatic conditions reduce the temporal clustering of receptive females and increase male-male competition, resulting in strong sexual selection. In summary, we provide compelling evidence for the importance of climate for the evolution of color ornamentation, and we demonstrate that geographic variation in the strength of sexual selection influences introgression of this phenotype.
Ruiz Minano, M. & While, G.M. & Yang, W. & Burridge, C.P. & Salvi, D. & Uller, T. (2022) -
Species distributed across climatic gradients will typically experience spatial variation in selection, but gene flow can prevent such selection from causing population genetic differentiation and local adaptation. Here, we studied genomic variation of 415 individuals across 34 populations of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in central Italy. This species is highly abundant throughout this region and populations belong to a single genetic lineage, yet there is extensive phenotypic variation across climatic regimes. We used redundancy analysis to, first, quantify the effect of climate and geography on population genomic variation in this region and, second, to test if climate consistently sorts specific alleles across the landscape. Climate explained 5% of the population genomic variation across the landscape, about half of which was collinear with geography. Linear models and redundancy analyses identified loci that were significantly differentiated across climatic regimes. These loci were distributed across the genome and physically associated with genes putatively involved in thermal tolerance, regulation of temperature-dependent metabolism and reproductive activity, and body colouration. Together, these findings suggest that climate can exercise sufficient selection in lizards to promote genetic differentiation across the landscape in spite of high gene flow.
Ruiz Sanchez, S.L. (1996) -
Ruiz-Altaba, C. & Ponsell, L. (2000) -
Rund, D. & Neves, V. & Quillfeldt, P. (2019) -
Hemogregarine parasites are found in many vertebrates, being most prevalent in reptiles, with lizards being the second most common hosts after snakes. Hepatozoon is the most widespread of the four genera that parasitize reptiles by infecting red blood cells. The Hepatozoon lifecycle requires blood–sucking invertebrates as vectors, and vector abundance can determine the parasite prevalence. To compare parasite prevalence between a large island and an islet without standing water, we analysed blood samples of the Madeiran wall lizard, Teira dugesii, at Praia Islet and Gra¬ciosa Island in the Azores, Portugal. We found a comparatively low prevalence of Hepatozoon, belonging to a new genetic line. The prevalence of this new parasite on the larger Graciosa Island was eight times higher than that for Praia Islet, which has no standing water sources. Our results are in line with a generally higher prevalence of blood parasites in sites with higher vector abundance.
Runemark, A. & Brydegaard, M. & Svensson, E.I. (2014) -
The evolution of striking phenotypes on islands is a well-known phenomenon, and there has been a long-standing debate on the patterns of body size evolution on islands. The ecological causes driving divergence in insular populations are, however, poorly understood. Reduced predator fauna is expected to lower escape propensity, increase body size and relax selection for crypsis in small-bodied, insular prey species. Here, we investigated whether escape behaviour, body size and dorsal coloration have diverged as predicted under predation release in spatially replicated islet and mainland populations of the lizard species Podarcis gaigeae. We show that islet lizards escape approaching observers at shorter distances and are larger than mainland lizards. Additionally, we found evidence for larger between-population variation in body size among the islet populations than mainland populations. Moreover, islet populations are significantly more divergent in dorsal coloration and match their respective habitats poorer than mainland lizards. These results strongly suggest that predation release on islets has driven population divergence in phenotypic and behavioural traits and that selective release has affected both trait means and variances. Relaxed predation pressure is therefore likely to be one of the major ecological factors driving body size divergence on these islands.
Runemark, A. & Gabirot, M. & Bensch, S. & Svenson, E.I. & Martin, J. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. & Hansson, B. (2008) -
We tested 27 microsatellite loci for cross-species amplification in the lacertids Podarcis gaigeae and Podarcis hispanica. We detected 11 and 15 polymorphic loci in the former and the latter species, respectively. In a larger sample of individuals from a single population of each species, the number of alleles ranged from five to 23 in 10 of the polymorphic loci in P. gaigeae, and between four and 13 in nine of polymorphic loci in P. hispanica. Two locus deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in P. hispanica. Between 11 and 16 of the 27 loci also amplified successfully in three other Podarcis species.
Runemark, A. & Gabirot, M. & Svensson, E. (2011) -
When sexually selected traits diverge because of different local selective environments, premating isolation might arise as a correlated response. However, sexually selected traits might also diverge by stochastic forces. Here, we show that odour-based mate preferences and scent composition have diverged between islet- and mainland populations of Skyros wall lizard, Podarcis gaigeae. We quantified the degree of scent-mediated premating isolation between populations. Islet lizards preferred scent from islet lizards, whereas the mainland populations were less discriminatory. The pheromone compositions differed more between islets than between islet- and mainland populations and did not differ significantly between mainland populations. There was a tendency for population divergence in pheromones to be positively correlated with neutral genetic divergence. This might indicate a role for genetic drift in evolutionary change in these signals and partial decoupling between signals and preferences. Our results suggest that chemical signals and associated mate preferences can diverge through stochastic and selective forces and influence premating isolation.
Runemark, A. & Hansson, B. & Ljungqvist, M. & Brydegaard, M. & Svensson, E.I. (2013) -
Sexually selected traits are often condition-dependent and are expected to be affected by genome-wide distributed deleterious mutations and inbreeding. However, sexual selection is a powerful selective force that can counteract inbreeding through purging of deleterious mutations. Inbreeding and purging of the inbreeding load for sexually selected traits has rarely been studied across natural populations with different degrees of inbreeding. Here we investigate inbreeding effects (measured as marker-based heterozygosity) on condition-dependent sexually selected signalling trait and other morphological traits across islet- and mainland populations (n = 15) of an endemic lizard species (Podarcis gaigeae). Our data suggest inbreeding depression on a condition-dependent sexually selected signalling character among mainland subpopulations with low or intermediate levels of inbreeding, but no sign of inbreeding depression among small and isolated islet populations despite their higher overall inbreeding levels. In contrast, there was no such pattern among ten other morphological traits which are primarily naturally selected and presumably not involved in sexual signalling. These results are in line with purging of recessive deleterious alleles, or purging in combination with stochastic fixation of alleles by genetic drift, for a sexual signalling character in the islet environment, which is characterized by low population sizes and strong sexual selection. Higher clutch sizes in islet populations also raise interesting questions regarding the possibility of antagonistic pleiotropy. Purging and other non-exclusive explanations of our results are discussed.
Runemark, A. & Hansson, B. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. Svensson, E.I. (2010) -
Background: Patterns of spatial variation in discrete phenotypic traits can be used to draw inferences about the adaptive significance of traits and evolutionary processes, especially when compared to patterns of neutral genetic variation. Population divergence in adaptive traits such as color morphs can be influenced by both local ecology and stochastic factors such as genetic drift or founder events. Here, we use quantitative color measurements of males and females of Skyros wall lizard, Podarcis gaigeae, to demonstrate that this species is polymorphic with respect to throat color, and the morphs form discrete phenotypic clusters with limited overlap between categories. We use divergence in throat color morph frequencies and compare that to neutral genetic variation to infer the evolutionary processes acting on islet- and mainland populations. Results: Geographically close islet- and mainland populations of the Skyros wall lizard exhibit strong divergence in throat color morph frequencies. Population variation in throat color morph frequencies between islets was higher than that between mainland populations, and the effective population sizes on the islets were small (Ne:s < 100). Population divergence (FST) for throat color morph frequencies fell within the neutral FST-distribution estimated from microsatellite markers, and genetic drift could thus not be rejected as an explanation for the pattern. Moreover, for both comparisons among mainland-mainland population pairs and between mainland-islet population pairs, morph frequency divergence was significantly correlated with neutral divergence, further pointing to some role for genetic drift in divergence also at the phenotypic level of throat color morphs. Conclusions: Genetic drift could not be rejected as an explanation for the pattern of population divergence in morph frequencies. In spite of an expected stabilising selection, throat color frequencies diverged in the islet populations. These results suggest that there is an interaction between selection and genetic drift causing divergence even at a phenotypic level in these small, subdivided populations.
Runemark, A. & Hey, J. & Hansson, B. & Svensson, E.I. (2012) -
Allopatry and allopatric speciation can arise through two different mechanisms: vicariance or colonization through dispersal. Distinguishing between these different allopatric mechanisms is difficult and one of the major challenges in biogeographical research. Here, we address whether allopatric isolation in an endemic island lizard is the result of vicariance or dispersal. We estimated the amount and direction of gene flow during the divergence of isolated islet populations and subspecies of the endemic Skyros wall lizard Podarcis gaigeae, a phenotypically variable species that inhabits a major island and small islets in the Greek archipelago. We applied isolation-with-migration models to estimate population divergence times, population sizes and gene flow between islet-mainland population pairs. Divergence times were significantly correlated with independently estimated geological divergence times. This correlation strongly supports a vicariance scenario where islet populations have sequentially become isolated from the major island. We did not find evidence for significant gene flow within P. g. gaigeae. However, gene-flow estimates from the islet to the mainland populations were positively affected by islet area and negatively by distance between the islet and mainland. We also found evidence for gene flow from one subspecies (P. g. weigandi) into another (P. g. gaigeae), but not in the other direction. Ongoing gene flow between the subspecies suggests that even in this geographically allopatric scenario with the sea posing a strong barrier to dispersal, divergence with some gene flow is still feasible.
Runemark, A. & Sagonas, K. & Svensson, E.I. (2015) -
Although rapid evolution of body size on islands has long been known, the ecological mechanisms behind this island phenomenon remain poorly understood. Diet is an important selective pressure for morphological divergence. Here we investigate if selection for novel diets has contributed to the multiple independent cases of island gigantism in the Skyros wall lizard (Podarcis gaigeae) and if diet, predation, or both factors best explain island gigantism. We combined data on body size, shape, bite force, and realized and available diets to address this. Several lines of evidence suggest that diet has contributed to the island gigantism. The larger islet lizards have relatively wider heads and higher bite performance in relation to mainland lizards than would be expected from size differences alone. The proportions of consumed and available hard prey are higher on islets than mainland localities, and lizard body size is significantly correlated with the proportion of hard prey. Furthermore, the main axis of divergence in head shape is significantly correlated with dietary divergence. Finally, a model with only diet and one including diet and predation regime explain body size divergence equally well. Our results suggest that diet is an important ecological factor behind insular body size divergence, but could be consistent with an additional role for predation.
Runemark, A. & Svensson, E.I. (2008) -
We will present data on pre-mating isolation between island populations and mainland populations of Skyros wall lizard, Podarcis gaigeae, using interest in chemical cues from the other sex as a proxy for mate preferences. Skyros wall lizard exhibit substantial morphological divergence in island populations within only a few hundred meters from the mainland source populations. Island gigantism has evolved at least twice, indicating that parallel ecological selection pressures are causing phenotypic divergence. This makes Skyros wall lizard an interesting model system for studying population divergence and speciation mechanisms. We have also detetected pronounced between-population differences in feeding structure from geometric morphometrics study of the skull. Differences in feeding structure are likely to be correlated with local diets, since a higher, shorter head-shape in lizards correspond to an increase in bite-force. Molecular genetic data from 10 microsatellite loci revealed that the island populations are much more diverged from each other and from the mainland populations, than the mainland populations are from each other. Reduction in gene flow could presumably have facilitated local adaptation in morphology and behavior on the islets.
Runemark, A. & Svensson, E.I. (2012) -
Sexual selection is often viewed as a promoter of population divergence, but some forms of sexual selection could rather hamper divergence. Here, we investigate if sexual selection promotes divergence in sexually selected traits. We studied population variation in sexual selection in relation to colour morph and body size in islet and mainland populations of the Skyros wall lizard (Podarcis gaigeae). Females were most likely to mate with orange-throated males with small body sizes, and male body size and colouration were therefore subject to correlational sexual selection. In contrast, male mating probabilities were not affected by any female phenotypic character. We also found variation in a female resistance trait (escape propensity), with females being more prone to escape when exposed to males from other habitats. Sexual selection could potentially affect the frequencies of throat colour morphs in this species by favouring orange throated males of small body size, but there was no evidence of sexual selection for local mates or rare phenotypes. Our results do thus not support a role for sexual selection as a promoter of population divergence in this species.
Rupik, W. & Kowalska, M. & Swadzba, E. & Maslak, R. (2016) -
Rupik, W. & Swadzba, E. & Dubinska-Magiera, M. & Jedrzejowska, I. & Daczewska, M. (2012) -
Reptilian myotomal myogenesis is poorly understood. This paper reports on structural, ultrastructural and immunocytochemical studies of muscle differentiation in sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) embryos. During somitogenesis, the somites are composed of epithelial vesicles with a centrally located somitocoel. At later developmental stages the ventral portion of the somite cortex disaggregates into the sclerotome mesenchyme, while the dorsal wall of the somite differentiates into dermomyotome. At these developmental stages, mononucleated cells of the dermomyotome are Pax3-positive. The dermomyotome layer forms the dorsomedial and ventromedial lips. The myotome is first composed of mono- and then of multinucleated myotubes and small mononucleated cells that occur in the vicinity of the myotubes. These mononucleated cells exhibit low proliferative potential as revealed by the use of PCNA antibody. At subsequent stages of myogenesis the mononucleated cells express Pax7 protein, a marker of satellite cells, and assume ultrastructural features characteristic of satellite cells. Some of the mononucleated cells contribute to muscle growth, being involved in fusion with differentiating muscle fibers. This study revealed similarities of myotomal myogenesis in reptiles to that of other vertebrates.
Rupik, W. & Swadzba, E. & Kowalska, M. & Jackowiak, H. & Maslak, R. (2014) -
Rupik, W. & Swadzba, E. & Kowalska, M. & Maslak, R. (2016) -
Russell, A.P. & Bergmann, P.J. & Barbadillo, L.J. (2001) -
n recent years, the pattern of maximal caudal autotomy in lizards has come under consideration, with attention being focused on how nonsegmental muscles in the tail base, specifically the m. caudofemoralis longus and the m. retractor penis magnus, may limit autotomy where they cross autotomy planes or, alternatively, how they may be ruptured if maximal autotomy is practiced. In this paper, we demonstrate that in the lacertid lizard Podarcis hispanica a number of autotomic vertebrae are spanned by the m. caudofemoralis longus, that maximal caudal autotomy does occur, and that the caudofemoralis muscle dissociates from its vertebral attachments but is not torn in the process. Anatomical and histological data reveal that this muscle has a specialized structure and relationship with surrounding muscles, skeletal elements, and connective tissues that result in minimal damage upon maximal autotomy. Furthermore, upon caudal regeneration, the m. caudofemoralis longus reestablishes contact with the newly formed cartilaginous axial skeleton of the tail.
Russell, L. (2013) -
Lacerta agilis is a widespread lizard which reaches the western edge of its range in Britain where it is restricted to three geographically separated areas. Recent habitat loss and fragmentation have resulted in a significant decline and it is now a UK conservation priority. Sand lizards from across the Britain were genotyped at 15 microsatellite loci and the resulting dataset used to address questions regarding the conservation genetics, phylogeography and influence of landscape on patterns of genetic diversity. Genetic diversity of Dorset populatins compared favourably to European examples. However, diversity was significantly lower in Surrey and Merseyside. Significant genetic structuring occurred across small geographical distances even in relatively unfragmented landscapes. Lacerta agilis colonised Britain via a land bridge across the North Sea and reached the limits of its current distribution approximately 5,000 years BP. Subsequent climate cooling has resulted in a range contraction to areas where the habitat is suitable for the successful incubation of eggs. A resistance surface was used to investigate the effect of landscape configuration on patterns of genetic diversity at multiple scales in Dorset. At a local scale, habitat type and rivers were the best predictors of genetic diversity. At a regional scale, rivers were most important, whereas habitat type and artificial barriers were less important. Artificial barriers may be more significant than the results suggest as their true effect has not yet been realised due to a genetic time-lag. Male lizards from Merseyside exhibited significant differences in colour and pattern to the Dorset and Surrey populations. However, despite difference in colour, all populations were equally green, which is in keeping with the importance of ‘greenness’ as a sexual signal. The implications of these findings for the conservation of L. agilis are discussed in the context of current challenges and predicted future global climate change.
Russell, L. & Beebee, T.J.C. (2011) -
The sand lizard Lacerta agilis reaches the western edge of its range in the where it is restricted to habitats on sandy soils and consequently has a limited and patchy distribution. This has left the sand lizard particularly vulnerable to the efects of habitat loss and fragmentation and the species has sufered signiicant declines. Sand lizards were sampled from a number of sites within the species’ UK stronghold of Dorset and genotyped at 15 microsatellite loci. Individual populations were identiied using Bayesian assignment methods. Populations exhibited relatively high levels of genetic diferentiation over small geographical distances and diferentiation patterns could not be explained by isolation by distance. The efect of the landscape on genetic population structure was investigated at a ine scale in two scenarios: across a series of isolated/fragmented sites separated by natural and artiicial barriers to dispersal; and, within a large area of forestry plantation where small patches of suitable habitat are present among larger areas of less suitable habitat. Remotely sensed habitat data was used to create a resistance surface and least-cost path analysis was used to explain genetic population structure within both scenarios.
The sand lizard Lacerta agilis reaches the western edge of its range in the where it is restricted to habitats on sandy soils and consequently has a limited and patchy distribution. This hasleft the sand lizard particularly vulnerable to the efects of habitat loss and fragmentation and the species has sufered signiicant declines. Sand lizards were sampled from a number of sites within the species’ UK stronghold of Dorset and genotyped at 15 microsatellite loci. Individual populations were identiied using Bayesian assignment methods. Populations exhibited relatively high levels of genetic diferentiation over small geographical distances and diferentiation patterns could not be explained by isolation by distance. The efect of the landscape on genetic population structure was investigated at a ine scale in two scenarios: across a series of isolated/fragmented sites separated by natural and artiicial barriers to dispersal; and, within a large area of forestry plantation where small patches of suitable habitat are present among larger areas of less suitable habitat. Remotely sensed habitat data was used to create a resistance surface and least-cost path analysis was used to explain genetic population structure within both scenarios.
Russell, L. & Burke, R.L. & Mercurio, R.J. (2002) -
Rust, H.T. (1943) -
Rustamova, A.K. & Shammakov, S.M. (1982) -
Fifty-three species of reptiles occur in Turkmenistan, of which 25 inhabit lowlands and 28 occur in plains and mountains. The species composition of reptiles in seven natural regions of Turkmenistan is discussed; the fauna of the sandy and clay desert is the richest. Seven species of reptiles`-occur in high density (from 10 to 71 per hectare), 30 species are frequent (1 to 10 per ha.) and 16 species are rare (0.2 to 1 per ha.). The fauna i3 subjected to a zoogeographical analysis.
Rutschke, J. (1989) -
Rutschke, J. & Koepe, D. & Deichsel, G. (2003) -
Rutschmann, A. & Dupouié, A. & Miles, D.B. & Megia-Palma, R. & Lauden, C. & Richard, M. & Badiana, A. & Rozen-Rechels, D. & Brevet, M. & Blaimont, P. & Meylan, S. & Clobert, J. & Galliard, J.-F. le (2021) -
1. In the past decades, nocturnal temperatures have been playing a disproportionate role in the global warming of the planet. Yet, they remain a neglected factor in studies assessing the impact of global warming on natural populations. 2. Here, we question whether an intense augmentation of nocturnal temperatures is beneficial or deleterious to ectotherms. Physiological performance is influenced by thermal conditions in ectotherms and an increase in temperature by only 2°C is sufficient to induce a disproportionate increase in metabolic expenditure. Warmer nights may expand ectotherms` species thermal niche and open new opportunities for prolonged activities and improve foraging efficiency. However, increased activity may also have deleterious effects on energy balance if exposure to warmer nights reduces resting periods and elevates resting metabolic rate. 3. We assessed whether warmer nights affected an individual`s growth, dorsal skin colouration, thermoregulation behaviour, oxidative stress status and parasite load by exposing yearling common lizards (Zootoca vivipara) from four populations to either ambient or high nocturnal temperatures for approximately 5weeks. 4. Warmer nocturnal temperatures increased the prevalence of ectoparasitic infestation and altered allocation of resources towards structural growth rather than storage. We found no change in markers for oxidative stress. The thermal treatment did not influence thermal preferences, but influenced dorsal skin brightness and luminance, in line with a predicted acclimation response in colder environments to enhance heat gain from solar radiation. 5. Altogether, our results highlight the importance of considering nocturnal warming as an independent factor affecting ectotherms` life history in the context of global climate change.
Rutschmann, A. & Miles, D.B. & Galliard, J.-F. le & Richard, M. & Moulherat, S. & Sinervo, B. & Clobert, J. (2016) -
1. Substantial plastic variation in phenology in response to environmental heterogeneity through time in the same population has been uncovered in many species. However, our understanding of differences in reaction norms of phenology among populations from a given species remains limited. 2. As the plasticity of phenological traits is often influenced by local thermal conditions, we expect local temperature to generate variation in the reaction norms between populations. 3. Here, we explored temporal variation in parturition date across 11 populations of the com mon lizard (Zootoca vivipara) from four mountain chains as a function of air temperatures during mid-gestation. We characterized among-population variation to assess how local weather conditions (mean and variance of ambient temperatures during mid-gestation) and habitat openness (an index of anthropogenic disturbance) influence the thermal reaction norms of the parturition date. 4. Our results provide evidence of interactive effects of anthropogenic disturbance and ther mal conditions, with earlier parturition dates in warmer years on average especially in closed habitats. 5. Variation in the reaction norms for parturition date was correlated with mean local thermal conditions at a broad geographical scale. However, populations exposed to variable thermal conditions had flatter thermal reaction norms. 6. Assessing whether environmental heterogeneity drives differentiation among reaction norms is crucial to estimate the capacity of different populations to contend with projected climatic and anthropogenic challenges.
Rutschmann, A. & Rozen-Rechels, D. & Dupoué, A. & Blaimont, P. & Villemereuil, P. de & Miles, D.B. & Richard, M. & Clobert, J. (2020) -
Regulation of body temperature is crucial for optimizing physiological performance in ectotherms but imposes constraints in time and energy. Time and energy spent thermoregulating can be reduced through behavioral (e.g., basking adjustments) or biophysical (e.g., heating rate physiology) means. In a heterogeneous environment, we expect thermoregulation costs to vary according to local, climatic conditions and therefore to drive the evolution of both behavioral and biophysical thermoregulation. To date, there are limited data showing that thermal physiological adjustments have a direct relationship to climatic conditions. In this study, we explored the effect of environmental conditions on heating rates in the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara). We sampled lizards from 10 populations in the Massif Central Mountain range of France and measured whether differences in heating rates of individuals correlated with phenotypic traits (i.e., body condition and dorsal darkness) or abiotic factors (temperature and rainfall). Our results show that heat gain is faster for lizards with a higher body condition, but also for individuals from habitats with higher amount of precipitation. Altogether, they demonstrate that environmentally induced constraints can shape biophysical aspects of thermoregulation.
Rutskina, I.M. (2008) -
Heartbeat rates in the southern and northern populations of Lacerta agilis show very similar reactions to warming and cooling, and no signifi cant changes of cardiac activity with temperature is observed among the species of these populations. Both populations apparently employ similar physiological mechanisms of thermal regulation regardless of their climatic conditions.
Руцкина, И.М. (2008) -
Ryabinin, D.M. & Grechko, V.V. & Darevsky, Ilya S. & Ryskov, A.P. & Semenova, S.K. (1996) -
As was shown earlier with reference to several animal taxa, characterization of highly repetitive DNA sequences by their susceptibility to restriction endonucleases (DNA taxoprinting) does not exhibit any differences between species populations. This method was used in our study on the populations and subspecies of some lacertid lizards: Lacerta raddei, L. saxicola, L. rudis, and L. agilis. These features were shown to be practically indistinguishable in two Armenian populations (Gosh and Khosrov) of L. raddei; the third population (Egegnadzor) demonstrates some differences. Two subspecies of Caucasian L. rudis and five subspecies of L. agilis inhabiting distant parts of the extensive range have minimal dissimilarities in the taxoprints studied. Comparison of L. saxicola subspecies, three of which inhabit the Caucasus and one the Crimea (L. s. lindholmi) presented no significant differences in any of the taxoprints of Caucasian subspecies studied up to now, while Crimean subspecies is significantly dissimilar, not less than other species are dissimilar from each other. It was suggested that L. s. lindholmi may be considered as an individual species. The molecular characteristics of genomic DNA used seem to be useful in animal taxonomy.
Ryabinina, N.L. & Bannikova, A.A. & Kosushkin , S.A. & Ciobanu, D.G. & Milto, D.A. & Tuniyev, B.S. Orlova, V.F. & Grechko, V.V. & Darevsky, I.S. (2002) -
The taxonomic categories such as population and subspecies were studied on the example of three Caucasian lizard species of genus Darevskia - D. praticola, D. derjugini, and D. rudis by comparing the morphological data and results inferred from nuclear DNA markers. RAPD and new inter-MIR-PCR (IM-PCR) methods were used. The IM-PCR was used to characterize the lacertid DNA fragments located between dispersed SINE type repeats which occurred to be ortologous to mammalian repeats of the same type. It was shown that separation of the Northern population of D. derjugini (subspecies silvatica) is supported by the comparison with two Southern populations (derjugini and barani). The latter ones, in their turn, are very similar and hardly can be considered as good subspecies by the genetic distance. The subspecific division of D. praticola (praticola and pontica) also requires more specification. For example, several populations from North Caucasus (ssp. praticola) occurred to be heterogeneous. The level of differences between ssp. praticola and pontica is of the same order as in some of the praticola populations. Low level of molecular differences between two subspecies of D. rudis (obscura and bischoffi) does not confirm their validity as a full subspecies.
Ryabinina, N.L. & Grechko, V.V. & Darevskii, I.S. (1998) -
Genomic DNA polymorphism in lizards was analyzed by means of PCR-based random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD-PCR). Several species, subspecies, and populations of the species complex Lacerta saxicola from the Caucasus were tested. Intrapopulation RAPD polymorphism was not detected in parthenogenetic species and was insignificant in bisexual species. RAPD patterns of Caucasian allopatric L. saxicola populations were almost identical and corresponded to the level of intrapopulation polymorphism. However, they differed from the RAPD patterns of the Crimean population of the same species, which separated earlier. A possibility of using RAPD markers to distinguish between taxonomic concepts of population and subspecies is discussed.
Ryabinina, N.L. & Grechko, V.V. & Semenova, S.K. & Darevsky, I.S. (1999) -
The hypothesis of hybridogenous origin of lacertid parthenogenetic species was verified by RAPD method with several arbitrary primers. The hypothesis appeared to be correct as both parthenogenetic lizard DNAs contain only the RAPD loci of putative parental bisexual species and practically no ones specific for parthenospecies. The most probable parentals are L. mixta and L. portschinskii for L. dahli, and some of the populations of L. raddei/nairensis complex and L. portschinskii, too, for L. rostombekovi.
Ryakhovsky, S.S. & Dikaya, V.A. & Korchagin, V.I. & Vergun, A.A. & Danilov, L.G. & Ochkalova, S.D. & Girnyk, A.E. & Zhernakova, D.V. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Brukhin, V.B. & Komissariv, A.S. & Ryskov, A.P: (2021) -
Darevskia rock lizards include 29 sexual and seven parthenogenetic species of hybrid origin distributed in the Caucasus. All seven parthenogenetic species of the genus Darevskia were formed as a result of interspecific hybridization of only four sexual species. It remains unknown what are the main advantages of interspecific hybridization along with switching on parthenogenetic reproduction in evolution of reptiles. Data on whole transcriptome sequencing of parthenogens and their parental ancestors can provide value impact in solving this problem. Here we have sequenced ovary tissue transcriptomes from unisexual parthenogenetic lizard D. unisexualis and its parental bisexual ancestors to facilitate the subsequent annotation and to obtain the collinear characteristics for comparison with other lizard species. Here we report generated RNAseq data from total mRNA of ovary tissues of D. unisexualis, D. valentini and D. raddei with 58932755, 51634041 and 62788216 reads. Obtained RNA reads were assembled by Trinity assembler and 95141, 62123, 61836 contigs were identified with N50 values of 2409, 2801 and 2827 respectively. For further analysis top Gene Ontology terms were annotated for all species and transcript number was calculated. The raw data were deposited in the NCBI SRA database (BioProject PRJNA773939). The assemblies are available in Mendeley Data and can be accessed via doi:10.17632/rtd8cx7zc3.1.
Ryakhovsky, S.S. & Zhernakova, D.V. & Korchagin, V.I. & Vergun, A.A. & Girnyk, A.E. & Dikaya, V.A. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Komissarov, A.S. & Ryskov, A.P. (2022) -
Objectives This study is performed in the frame of a bigger study dedicated to genomics and transcriptomics of parthenogenesis in vertebrates. Among vertebrates, obligate parthenogenesis was first described in the lizards of the genus Darevskia. In this genus, all found parthenogenetic species originated via interspecific hybridization. It remains unknown which genetic or genomic factors play a key role in the generation of parthenogenetic organisms. Comparative genomic and transcriptomic analysis of parthenogens and their parental species may elucidate this problem. Darevskia valentini is a paternal species for four (of seven) parthenogens of this genus, which we promote as a particularly important species for the generation of parthenogenetic forms. Data description Total cellular RNA was isolated from kidney and liver tissues using the standard Trizol Tissue RNA Extraction protocol. Sequencing of transcriptome libraries prepared by random fragmentation of cDNA samples was performed on an Illumina HiSeq2500. Obtained raw sequences contained 117,6 million reads with the GC content of 47%. After preprocessing, raw data was assembled by Trinity and produced 491,482 contigs. Keywords Caucasian rock lizards, genus Darevskia, interspecific hybridization, parthenogenesis, Darevskia valentini, transcriptome assembly.
Ryberg, K. & Olsson, M. & Wapstra, E. & Madsen, T. & Anderholm, S. & Ujvari, B. (2004) -
We report on a field study in which determinants of female breeding dispersal (i.e. the shift in the mean home range coordinates between successive breeding events) was investigated. Offspring were released in full sib groups (or half sib ones if there was within-clutch multiple paternity) at a separation distance from the females that varied between `families`. This allowed for analysis of `offspring nearness` effects on maternal dispersal. When a female`s offspring were released more closely to her, she responded with greater dispersal. Furthermore, when the data set was truncated at 100 m maternal–offspring separation distance at offspring release (because perception at longer distances is likely to be unrealistic), maternal dispersal resulted in greater separation distance between female and offspring in the following year. A corresponding analysis for juveniles revealed no effect of maternal nearness on offspring dispersal but identified a significant effect of clutch size, to our surprise with dispersal declining with increasing clutch size. We discuss this result in a context of the `public information hypothesis` (reinterpreted for juveniles in a nonsocial foraging species), suggesting that conspecific abundance perhaps acts as an indicator of local habitat quality. Thus, our analysis suggests a microgeographic structuring of the adult female population driven by genetic factors, either through inbreeding avoidance, or from simply avoiding individuals with a similar genotype regardless of their pedigree relatedness, while a nongenetic factor seems more important in their offspring.
Rykena, S: & Nettmann, H.K. & Mayer, W. (1998) -
Rykena, S. (1976) -
Rykena, S. (1987) -
Rykena, S. (1988) -
Rykena, S. (1990) -
Rykena, S. (1991) -
Hybridization experiments between the five commonly recognized species L. agilis, L. viridis, L. schreiberi, L. strigata, L. trilineata reveal increased rates of malformation and reduced fertility up to sterility as postzygotic isolating mechanisms. Depending on the combination, 30% up to 100% of hybrid females are sterile while only two sterile males were observed among hundreds. In backcrosses and in the rare cases of F2 generations, a drastic decrease of reproductive success was observed, if fertile offspring occurred. Clear species boundaries between the five species are demonstrated, although different degrees of postzygotic isolation indicate different genetic distances between them. Results from crosses within the taxon L. viridis s. 1. justify the distinction of two polytypic semispecies, L. bilineata in the western part of the range and L. viridis in the eastern part.
Rykena, S. (1992) -
Rykena, S. (1996) -
Rykena, S. (2002) -
Rykena, S. & Bischoff, W. (1992) -
In 1929 Lacerta andreanskyi was discovered and described by WERNER from the Djebel Toubkal of the High Atlas Mountains, Morocco. Since then all publica- tions concerning this species refer to animals from the Toubkal region (WERNER 1929, 1931, 1935, SAINT GIRONS 1953, PASTEUR & BONS 1960, KLEMMER 1969, STEMMLER 1972, BUSACK 1987, JOGER & BISCHOFF 1989). Only KLEMMER (1969) mentions these lizards also from the volcano Siroua. Based on preserved specimens at the museums of Basel and Paris the distribution area will be enlarged immensely by two further places. Two unequivocal L. andreanskyi (NMB 13469 and MNHP 1939-156) were collected from Djebel Tarkedit (about 250 km east of Toubkal). Three further lizards (NMB 13468 and MNHP 1939-155) (ZFMK 49736, JOGER & BISCHOFF 1989) from Djebel Ayachi might be distinct from L. andreanskyi on subspecific or specific level. The basis of this research is one pair of L. andreanskyi and their offspring. The parents were caught in the region of the Djebel Toubkal. L. andreanskyi was found at an altitude of 2300 m and higher, living solitary in spiny shrubs (Alyssum spinosum, Bupleurum spinosum, Cytisus balansae), which partially overgrow the rocks, thus forming a typical `hedgehog zone` (WERNER 1931, 1935, SAINT Gi- RONS 1953, STEMMLER 1972). Podarcis hispanica vaucheri, which is very abundant below 2200 m, is absent in this area. Two other species, Quedenfeldtia trachyblepha- rus and Vipera monticola, also endemicto the High AtlasMountains, livesympatri- cally with L. andreanskyi (SAINT GIRONS 1953, KLEMMER 1969, STEMMLER 1972, BEERLI et al. 1986). The majority of the publications concerningL. andreanskyi is restricted to descriptions of its morphologyand its habitat. BUSACK (1987) is the first to men- tion biological data. This work presents results on the reproductive biology of this lizard species.
Rykena, S. & Bischoff, W. (1997) -
Rykena, S. & Henke, L. (1978) -
Two female hybrids hatched from a crossbreed of Lacerta viridis male X Lacerta agilis female. One of them is in colour and pattern very similar to L. agilis, while the other one with its green back and its faint pattern looks somewhat intermediate between the two species. Correlated with these two types of dorsal pattern is the size of scales on the middle back, forming a band of narrowed scales in the agilis-Iike specimen, but differing only very litt!e from the other backscales in the green-backed specimen. Both hybrids are with 11,1 cm snout-vent-length !arger than any L. agilis, so com- parable to L. viridis. But having a short blunt head, short legs and a short tail they show proportions of L. agilis. One of the hybrids laid unfertilized eggs at several times.
Rykena, S. & Nettmann, H.-K. (1978) -
Rykena, S. & Nettmann, H.-K. (1986) -
Rykena, S. & Nettmann, H.-K. (1987) -
Rykena, S. & Nettmann, H.-K. & Bings, W. (1977) -
Field observations show the Zagrosian lizard Lacerta princeps kurdistanica in SE Turkey (Mardin hills) as an inhabitant of the shrubby oak forests covering the slopes of the valleys. Within these forests the lizard prefers the oak-shrubs. Other reptiles which may be food competitors of L. princeps are living in different habitats. For example, Agama stellio is found on or between rocks, while Lacerta trili- neata media lives only in relativly moist regions near water. Population density of L. princeps appears to be low in the Mardin hills. Colour and flight-behaviour of L. princeps seems to be an antipredator adaption against the short- toed eagle Circaetus gallicus which was often seen in that region. 6 d` and 1 S? of L. princeps kurdistanica were caught and are now living in terraria. The males are aggressive, so that they are kept in different cages, some of them together with other Lacerta species. No aggression was seen against a male of L. v . viridis or from this animal against the L. princeps male. In the expressive behaviour of L. princeps males we found a `nodding` very similar to that seen in males of Canarian lizards. No behavioural character is corresponding exclusively with the behaviour of the Lacerta s. str. group (L. viridis, L. agilis, L. schrei- beri, L. trilineata, L. strigata). There is no reason to extend the weil defined Lacerta s. str. group by adding the Zagrosian lizard. A group consisting of the Canarian lizards, Lacerta lepida, Lacerta princeps, and Lacerta jayakari is based on plesiomorphic characters and thus it is not a monophyletic group in HENNIG`s (1950) sense.
Rykena, S. & Nettmann, H.-K. & Mayer, W. (2002) -
From the Dirfis mountains at the island of Evvia (Euboea) the new subspecies, Lacerta viridis guentherpetersi ssp. nov., is described. It is a large growing, robust, Green Lizard, lacking any bright blue colour but with green coloration at the throat and headsides in both sexes. It can be distinguished from the L. v. meridionalis by its coloration and proportions and by the lack of a marked massetericum and from the nominate subspecies by the head coloration. Differences based on molecular characters and on hybridisation results have been published already (AMANN et al. 1997, MAYER & BEYERLEIN 2001), while the nominal description is presented here. Two different morphs of subadults pattern are described, which may also occur in other populations. This Green Lizard lives at about 1000 m above sea level in open places around forest. Similar Green Lizard populations occur in mountains of mainland Greece (Olympus, Pilion, Ossa), which presumably will belong also to this new subspecies, but further studies are necessary to analyse the Variation pattern of different character levels and the evolutionary history of Green Lizards of mainland Greece.
Rykena, S. & Nettmann, H.K. & Günther, R. (1996) -
Ryskov, A.P. & Kan, N.G. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Tokarskaya, O.N. (2000) -
In four isolated populations of parthenogenetic Caucasian rock lizard Lacerta unisexualis, variability of(TCC)(n) loci was examined using multilocus DNA fingerprinting. Unexpectedly high variability of(TCC)(n) microsatellites was found in all four populations. The mean similarity index was 0.825, which is higher than similarity estimates obtained for other mini- and microsatellite loci in L. unisexualis and parthenogenetic species L, dahli and L, armeniaca studied earlier. The high variation level of(TCC)(n) loci was shown to be at least partially associated with the presence of a diverged (TCC)(n) sequence fraction in the L. unisexualis genome. Mutations at some other genetically unstable (TCC)(n) loci may cause their structural diversity in populations of L, unisexualis.
Ryskov, A.P. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Badaeva, T.N. & Korchagin, V.I. & Danielyan, F.D. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Darevsky, I.S. & Tokarskaya, O.N. (2003) -
Using multilocus DNA fingerprinting, we have examined variability of (TCT) n microsatellite and M13 minisatellite DNA repeats in populations, families, and tissues of parthenogenetic Caucasian rock lizards Darevskia unisexualis (Lacertidae). It has been shown for the first time that population and family DNA samples of D. unisexualis (75 samples in total) have individually specific DNA fingerprinting patterns of (TCT) n fragments. Analysis of inheritance of (TCT) n microsatellites in 46 first-generation progeny in 17 parthenogenetic D. unisexualis families revealed their extremely high instability. Mutant TCT fingerprint phenotypes were found in virtually each animal of the progeny. Moreover, varying fragments in the progeny and their original variants in the mothers were shown to simultaneously contain (TCT) n and (TCC) n polypyrimidine clusters. At the same time, no variability of (TCT) n fragments has been detected in the tissues and organs of mature parthenogenetic lizards and in the analogous tissues of the two-week-old progeny of this year. This suggests the absence of somatic mosaicism and methylation of the corresponding loci in the samples. Along with the hyperinstability of (TCT/TCC) n polypyrimidine clusters, we have shown that the population and family DNA fingerprinting patterns of M13 minisatellites were invariable and monomorphic in the same DNA samples of D. unisexualis.Our results indicate that mutations at loci containing polypyrimidine microsatellites significantly contribute to the total genomic variability of parthenogenetic lizards D. unisexualis.
Рысков А.П., Мартиросян И.А., Бадаева Т.Н., Корчагин В.И., Даниелян Ф.Д., Петросян В.Г., Даревский И.С., Токарская О.Н. (2003) -
С помощью мультилокусного ДНК-фингерпринтинга изучена изменчивость (TCT) n микросателлитных и М13 минисателлитных повторов ДНК в популяциях, семьях и тканях партеногенетических скальных ящериц Кавказа Darevskia unisexualis (сем. Lacertidae). Впервые показано, что популяционные и семейные образцы ДНК D. unisexualis (всего 75 образцов) обладают индивидуально-специфическими ДНК-фингерпринтными спектрами распределения (ТСТ) n-фрагментов. Анализ наследования (ТСТ) n-микросателлитов у 46 потомков первого поколения в 17 партеногенетических семьях D. unisexualis выявил чрезвычайно высокую их нестабильность. Мутантные ТСТ-фингерпринтные фенотипы были обнаружены практически у каждого потомка. Более того, показано, что варьирующие фрагменты у потомков и их исходные варианты у матери содержат одновременно (ТСТ) n- и (ТСС) n-полипиримидиновые кластеры. В то же время в тканях и органах взрослых партеногенетических ящериц и в аналогичных тканях двухнедельных сеголеток не наблюдалось вариабельности (ТСТ) я-фрагментов, что указывает на отсутствие в исследованных образцах соматического мозаициз-ма и метилирования соответствующих локусов. Наряду с обнаруженной супернестабильностью (ТСТ/ТСС) n-полипиримидиновых кластеров показана инвариабельность и мономорфность картины популяционных и семейных ДНК-фингерпринтных спектров по М13 минисателлитам в тех же образцах ДНК D. unisexualis. Полученные данные указывают на то, что мутации в локусах, содержащие полипиримидиновые микросателлиты, вносят значительный вклад в общий уровень геномной вариабельности партеногенетических ящериц D. unisexualis.
Ryskov, A.P. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Vergun, A.A. & Malysheva, D.N. & Badaeva, T.N. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Vassetzky, N.S. & Korchagin, V.I. (2009) -
Experimental data on the molecular structure and variability of microsatellite loci in unisexual and bisexual lizard species of the genus Darevskia were analyzed. The allelic variants of Du281 and Du47 were found to differ in the number of monomers, the structure of microsatellite clusters, and point mutations in these clusters and flanking DNA. Interspecific comparison of alleles of these loci revealed both variable regions in the microsatellite clusters and allele-specific evolutionarily conserved nucleotide groups. In general, the results of comparative structural analysis of allelic variants testify to a high genetic similarity of the unisexual and bisexual lizard species studied and reveals the characteristic features of their interspecies variability.
Ryskov, A.P. & Osipov, F.A. & Omelchenko, A.V. & Semyenova, S.K. & Girnyk, A.E. & Kochagin, V.I. & Vergun, A.A. & Murphy, R.W. (2017) -
The all-female Caucasian rock lizard Darevskia rostombekowi and other unisexual species of this genus reproduce normally via true parthenogenesis. Typically, diploid parthenogenetic reptiles exhibit some amount of clonal diversity. However, allozyme data from D. rostombekowi have suggested that this species consists of a single clone. Herein, we test this hypothesis by evaluating variation at three variable microsatellite loci for 42 specimens of D. rostombekowi from four populations in Armenia. Analyses based on single nucleotide polymorphisms of each locus reveal five genotypes or presumptive clones in this species. All individuals are heterozygous at the loci. The major clone occurs in 24 individuals and involves three populations. Four rare clones involve one or several individuals from one or two populations. Most variation owes to parent-specific single nucleotide polymorphisms, which occur as heterozygotes. This result fails to reject the hypothesis of a single hybridization founder event that resulted in the initial formation of one major clone. The other clones appear to have originated via post-formation microsatellite mutations of the major clone.
Ryskov, A.P. & Vergun, A.A. (2017) -
Microsatellites, comprising tandemly repeated short nucleotide sequences, are ubiquitous in eukaryotic ge-nomes. Mutations within microsatellites are frequent, altering their overall length by insertion or deletion of a small number of repeat units. Mutation rates at micros¬atellite sites can be several orders higher in comparison with low rates for genomic nucleotide substitutions. De¬spite their high mutability, stable allele frequency distribu¬tions are typically observed for microsatellites in humans as well as other primates, although the mechanism main¬taining these stable distributions remains unclear. Genetic variation at many microsatellite loci is characterized by high heterozygosity and the presence of multiple alleles. Therefore, microsatellites have been the most widely used markers in genetic studies. Here we briefly provide general information concerning microsatellites, ‒ their definition, genomic distribution, genetic variation, some applications in genetic analysis. New approach for microsatellite geno¬typing of unisexual lizard species is described in more de¬tail. The approach reveals parent-specific markers consist¬ing of microsatellites and single nucleotides located out of microsatellite cluster for each allele of each locus. The single nucleotide variable markers yield direct informa¬tion about interspecific hybridization founder events, and microsatellite variability provides additional information concerning possible mutations in the initial hybrid clones that give rise to new genotypes.
S`khifa, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. & Slimani, T. (2021) -
Recent studies have reported declines in lizard populations associated with local warming trends and alteration of thermal niches. These studies suggest that there are some key physiological and behavioural parameters that determine the sensitivity of each species to the local context of global warming. The Atlas Dwarf Lizard, Atlantolacerta andreanskyi, is a small lacertid lizard endemic to the High Atlas Mountains (2200–3500 m a.s.l.) of Morocco. Its populations display a disjointed distribution across 440 km, consisting of phylogenetic lineages separated since the Miocene, suggesting a mor- phologically cryptic species complex. To establish whether this deeply rooted evolutionary divergence has promoted shifts in fundamental niche occupancy, but also whether there is any ecophysiological plasticity, preferred body temperatures (Tpref) and evaporative water loss (EWL) were examined in populations of the central and western High Atlas. Our results revealed no differences in Tpref across populations, but lower thermal preferences in (gravid) females. In contrast, EWL varied between populations, but not between sexes. In both cases, sexual patterns remained similar between populations, and differences were not evident between body sizes. Importantly, Tpref and EWL traded off, even if with a common trend across populations. These results suggest that ecophysiology remains mostly conservative within this species complex and that hydric ecology, which is more closely associated with body size, is more flexible than thermal ecology. The increase of lizard body size with altitude, in agreement with life history trends with seasonality observed in other Mountain Lizards, cannot be interpreted in terms of ecophysiological adaptation since the low-altitude populations of small lizards are the ones most exposed to dehydration. Rather, local environment and possibly aspects of evolutionary history could be in- volved. Overall, the ecophysiological conservativeness of this endemic species confirms its vulnerability to climate change, and indicates that hydric ecology needs to be incorporated into general models regarding how behavioural plasticity may mediate resilience to such changes. In this context, the low-altitude populations are the most vulnerable ones, and local management measures should focus on the conservation of vegetation and water bodies.
S`khifa, A. & Koziel, G. & Vences, M. & Carretero, M.A. & Slimani, T. (2020) -
Lizard species may differ in their ecophysiology due to adaptation, plasticity and/or phylogeny. In restrictive environments, ecophysiological differences of species living in sympatry are expected to reveal long-term evolutionary responses to the abiotic environment while competitive interactions should be limited. These influences can be disentangled by combining field monitoring with experimental tests. Here, three lacertid lizard species, Atlantolacerta andreanskyi, Scelarcis perspicillata and Podarcis vaucheri sharing high mountain habitats in Oukaimeden (High Atlas, Morocco), were studied. In the field, spatiotemporal variation of the thermal and hydric environment used by the lizards was monitored using data-loggers. In the lab, thermal and hydric ecophysiology was estimated through assessments of preferred temperatures (Tp) and water loss (WL) rates. Species differed in microhabitat use and, hence, in their exposure to variations in temperature and humidity. However, they only differed in their WL (A. andreanskyi>S. perspicillata>P. vaucheri) while their Tp were similar. Such partial differences of species in in the fundamental niche, likely derived from their long-term independent phylogenetic trajectories, can be used to predict their responses to climate and habitat shifts in this and other parts of their respective ranges. Results also confirm previous suggestions that, together with thermal physiology, hydric physiology plays a prominent role in the organisation of lizard communities in the temperate region.
S`Khifa, A. & Pereira, A. & Samlali, M.A. & Slimani, T. & Harris, D.J. & Xavier, R. (2023) -
Determining the dietary niche is an essential part of any conservation strategy, and for modeling the community responses to climate change. DNA metabarcoding methods are revolutionizing such approaches, allowing higher taxonomic resolution than typically possible using microscopy. However, few studies have compared directly the approaches to evaluate the differences in methodology. Here we assess the dietary niches of two genetically diverse populations of Atlantolacerta andreanskyi, a lizard endemic to the Atlas Mountains, Morocco, using DNA metabarcoding of faecal samples, and for one of these we compared the results to two previously published assessments of diets obtained using microscopy of pellets and stomach contents respectively. While results at the Order level were similar, the higher taxonomic resolution obtained in this study provided new insights into the dietary niche of this species. Comparisons between the two populations further highlighted how ecologically distinct these are.
S`khifa, B. & Samlali, M.A. & Harris, D.J. & Slimani, T. (2020) -
Sá-Sousa, P. (1995) -
Sá-Sousa, P. (1998) -
Sá-Sousa, P. (1999) -
The author reports on new locality records of the montane subspecies of Bocage`s Wall Lizard, Podarcis bocagei carbonelli PÉREZ-MELLADO, 1981 from Portugal, where the lizard was found in some highland areas (Montemuro, Leomil and Lapa mountains) situated north of its known range in the Estrela mountains. In the new places, the lizards were found in deforested areas colonized by broom and heather that had replaced the Pyrenean oak (Quercus pyrenaica).
Sá-Sousa, P. (2000) -
The geographic distributions of two forms of the Iberian wall lizard (Podarcis hispanicus) in Portugal were determined through extensive field surveys. Predictive models of probability of occurrence were developed for both forms of P. hispanicus, based on multivariate logistic regression of environmental variables. On a coarse scale, the best-fit models suggested that the distribution of the north-western form of P. hispanicus can be largely explained by environmental variables such as altitude, mean annual temperature and number of frost days per year. The distribution of the south-western form of P. hispanicus is also explained by altitude and temperature, but the type of climate also appears important. Predicted probabilities of occurrence broadly match the known distributions range ofthe two forms. Where predicted distributions are not confirmed by field surveys, historical and/or interspecific factors may be more important than environmental variables in influencing the distribution of the lizard.
Sá-Sousa, P. (2001) -
The geographic distributions of the Bocage’s wall lizard, Podarcis bocagei and the Carbonell’s wall lizard, P. carbonellaein Portugal were determined through extensive field surveys. The river Douro constitutes the main geographical barrier where both lizard species show nearby a zone of contact. Predictive models of probability of occurrence were developed for both species in Portugal, based on the Logistic Multiple Regres- sion (LMR) and the Overlap Analysis (OA). On a coarse scale, the best-fit model suggested that the distribution of P. bocagei in Portugal might be largely explained by macroenvironmental variables such as radiation, eva- potranspiration or type of climate. The balance between the number of frost days per year and a coefficient of aridity (Kdr = 100 × temperature/precipitation) seems important to explain the range of P. carbonellae. Howe- ver, the large overlap found between predictive areas strongly suggest that historical events (e.g. Pliocene spe- ciation, Pleistocene glacial refugia) might have been preponderant, acting the macroenvironmental factors as ultimate determinants of the present-day distribution of both species. The distribution of P. bocagei is signi- ficantly congruent with that of Chioglossa lusitanica, partially with Vipera seoaneiand with Rana ibericaand Lacerta schreiberinorthwards the river Douro. Conversely, the contractive distribution ofP. carbonellaedid not share any significant pattern of congruence with the latter taxa.
Sá-Sousa, P. (2004) -
Sá-Sousa, P. (2008) -
Sá-Sousa, P. (2009) -
Sá-Sousa, P. & Almeida, A.P. & Rosa, H. & Vicente, L. & Crespo, E.G. (2000) -
Six biometric characters and 15 electrophoretic loci of three known subspecies of Podarcis bocagei were studied. Contrary to biometric indications, Podarcis bocagei berlengensis showed a closer genetic relationship with Podarcis bocagei carbonelli than with the nominal subspecies. The biometric results were confounded by the relative large size of P. b. berlengensis. Post-glacial colonization from two different areas might explain the greater genetic differentiation between the P. b. bocagei and P. b. carbonelli populations (Nei`s D - 0.158 - near the species threshold). It might also explain the known colonization of these two lizards through the islands off the west coast of the Iberian penninsula and their present distributions to the north of (Galicia; Northern Portugal) and to the south of the valley of river Douro (central Portugal, western and Sistema Central), respectively.
Sá-Sousa, P. & González de la Vega, J.P. & Barnestein, J.A.M. (2001) -
Sá-Sousa, P. & Harris, D.J. (2002) -
Podarcis carbonelli is considered a full species on the basis of its morphological and genetic divergence from P. bocagei and P. hispanica. Podarcis carbonelli differs from P. bocagei in all twelve biometric variables compared and also in chromatic patterns. Podarcis carbonelli diverges from P.bocagei by more than 13% between cytochrome b sequences (mitochondrial DNA), a value typically reported between congeneric reptile species. Biogeographical criteria also support this hypothesis, as both lizard forms have different distribution ranges with a limited parapatric zone of contact without morphological intermediates.
Sa-Sousa, P. & Marquezm R. & Perez-Mellado, V. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2009) -
Sá-Sousa, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2002) -
Sá-Sousa, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Martinez-Solano, I. (2008) -
Sá-Sousa, P. & Vicente, L. & Crespo, E.G. (2002) -
A total of 35 morphological characters (biometry, scalation, chromatic pattern) were studied through multivariate analyses on 10 populations sampled across the range of the Iberian wall lizard (Podarcis hispanica) in Portugal. Biometry clearly splits the samples into two different types. Differences in scalation between the two types were not clear, but multiple correspondence analyses showed that different chromatic patterns t each of the types: one presented dark dorsal patterns (e.g. reticulated, eyeled, striped) and whitish-pearly belly, while the other showed green or yellow-brown patterns and yellow-orange belly. These two morphotypes constitute different molecular lineages and have different ranges of distribution.
Sabelli, R. (2022) -
On September 2018 a fire occured on the Monte Pisano, burning more than 11 km2 of woods and crops, involving part of three municipal territories: Calci, Buti and Vicopisano. From literature it is known that fire strongly influences the ecological structure of habitats and the structures of animal and plant communities. The study of fire and its ecological role (fire ecology) is a matter of study for botanists and zoologists. While the effects that fire has on some taxa are well known, very limited data have been published on its influence on reptile populations. Unfortunately, no data are available on pre-fire lacertid populations of the Monte Pisano and the aim of this work is therefore to verify the possible impacts of fire on lacertid populations on this area comparing areas affected by fire with areas not affected by fire. We assumed that in a pre-fire situation the two areas (burnt and unburnt) did not present significant differences in total abundance of individual lizards and in body size. The present work focuses on monitoring study of two very common and easily recordable species: Podarcis muralis and Podarcis siculus. From individuals captured by pitfall trap in a burnt area (called San Bernardo - used for an insect study project), I extrapolated data on population structure using data on biometric measures and class (juveniles, adults) frequencies. The biometric data were compared with other data, available at the Museum of Natural History of University of Pisa, from unburned areas, where individuals were captured by noosing. Using pitfall trap, 113 individuals of Podarcis were captured. The individuals were counted and then the biometric parameters (snout to vent length (SVL), head length, head width, head height) of the adult individuals were taken. The sample from the burnt area was composed by more than 60% juveniles, indicating a good capacity for recovery and population growth (at least in the pitfall trap area). In the pitfall trap area, 80% of the sample consisted of P. muralis. Biometric analyses were carried out only on male P. muralis, due to the limited sample size of the other sex and other speciessex. Analyses showed that individuals from the burnt area were smaller than those from the unburnt areas. I also performed the visual count method, a monitoring system, based on repeated counts along transects, noting position, sex and age on GPS. This method was used to estimate the abundance and a to give a descriptive analysis of the distribution of the two species along transects. Four transects were chosen, two located in an area crossed by fire and two located in an area not crossed by fire. Each transect has a length of 500 m, as suggested by the `ISPRA 2016` manual. The data collected along the transects show that the distribution of the two species is greatly influenced by the type of habitat (open and sunny areas vs. cool and shady areas). Analyses show an abundance difference between the populations in burnt and unburnt areas. In burnt areas, the abundance of lacertids is lower than in unburnt areas and the sizes are smaller. Limitations due to sample size and possible bias in the trapping methods are discussed in the final chapter.
Saber, S.A. & El Salkh, B.A. & Gadel-Rab, A.G. & Mahmoud, F.A. & El Dahshan, A.A. & Gewily, D.I. (2018) -
Aim of the work: the present study aimed to illustrate the structure and function of the integumentary system of two reptile`s species (Bosc’s fringe toed-lizard (Acanthodactylus boskianus, A. boskianus) and spotted fan-fingered gecko (Ptyodactylus guttatus , P. guttatus) and discussed the influence of different behaviors on their structure (keratinzation and pigmentation, claws, adhesion pads and sensory hairlets). Material and methods: the present study used light and scanning electron microscopy to investigate the structure of skin layers of A. boskianus and P. guttatus. Results: the thin epidermal layer of Acanthodactylus boskianus was covered by hard keratinized horny epidermal scales, while the epidermal layer of Ptyodactylus guttatus was well distinguished and covered by soft keratinized layer. Moreover, in P. guttatus the scales were non-overlapping along the whole length of the body with dome-like shaped on head region, while in A. boskianus the scales were overlapping and articulating with each other by thin hinge. In the present study the dermis of A. boskianus, was the deeper layer of collagenous connective tissue with a rich supply of blood vessels and nerves, while, the dermis of P. guttatus was formed of both collagenous and adipose tissues. Three types of chromatophores (melanophores, iridophores and xanthophores) were distinguished in the skin of both studied species. In A. boskianus, the melanophores were black, large and have dendrites invaginates in the stratum basale of epidermis. The iridophores (reflecting pigments) were scattered in the dermis with large number in the ventral skin than the dorsal one. In P. guttatus, melanphores they were larger, blackish brown and scattered within dermis beneath the iridophores with less number in P. guttatus than that of A. boskianus. Xanthophores (absorbing pigment) were more prominent in P. guttatus than that of A. boskianus. Conclusion: examination of the skin of the two studied reptile species revealed great variations in distribution of chromatophores through the whole body reflecting the adaptation of each animal to different modes of life.
Saber, S.A. & Masood, M.F. (2011) -
This study was carried out in El Omayed Protected Area at the Western Coastal Desert of Egypt. The present survey of the herpetofauna comprise 30 species (one amphibian species and 29 reptilian species) belonging to 25 genera and 11 families. Bufo viridis viridis was the only recorded amphibian species. From reptiles, 18 species of lizards, 9 species of snakes, and 2 species of Testudines were recorded. No endemic species were found in the study area. About half of the recorded species (43%) are threatened by different degrees and in argent need of special management; Threats to the populations of herpetofauna of the study area and conservatory recommendations were listed.
Saberi-Pirooz, R. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Ataei, S. & Taati, M. & Qashqaei, A.T. & Carretero, M.A. (2018) -
The meadow lizard Darevskia praticola (Eversmann, 1834) displays a wide distribution range from the Western Balkans and Caucasus to the Hyrcanian forest in Iran. Based on previous studies, four subspecies have been described (D. p. pra-ticola, D. p. pontica, D. p. hyrcanica and D. p. loriensis), but molecular evidence suggests two main phylogenetic lineages, Balkan and Caucasus. In this study we incorporated geographic records and analysed new samples from Alborz Mountains (Gilan Province, Iran), exploring their phylogenetic affinities using two mitochondrial markers (Cyt b and ND4). For the first time, Iranian samples are included in a molecular phylogeny. Our results meet the previous suggestions regarding the presence of a nuclear mitochondrial DNA fragment (numt) in Cyt b, causing misleading phylogenetic inferences since it renders the species paraphyletic. In contrast, the ND4 genealogy groups the species into a monophyletic clade, as expect-ed. Samples attributed to D. p. hyrcanica (Azerbaijan and Iran) and D. p. loriensis (Armenia) are settled in a single clade with minute genetic distance, suggesting synonymisation.
Saberi-Pirooz, R. & Rajabi-Maham, H. & Ahmadzadeh, F. & Kiabi, B.H. & Javidkar, M. & Carretero, M.A. (2021) -
Green lizards of the genus Lacerta have served as excellent models for studying the impact of Pleistocene climatic oscillations on genetic structures. The Caspian green lizard, Lacerta strigata, occupies various habitats across the Caucasus and the South Caspian Sea, with the Hyrcanian Forests and north of the Alborz Mountains forming the core of the range. This study aimed to re-examine the phylogenetic relation ships of L. strigata with other congeneric members and to assess the genetic structure and historical demography of the species. Furthermore, Species Distribution Models (SDMs) were performed to infer the species` potential habitat suitability and were then projected on climate scenarios reflecting current and past (6 ky and 21 ky before present) conditions. A total of 39 individuals collected from most of the distribu tion range, together with additional lacertid species sequences from the GenBank database, were examined using mtDNA (Cyt b and 12S ribosomal RNA) and nuclear (C-mos and β-fibrinogen) sequence data. Based on the phylogenetic analyses, L. stri gata was found to be a sister taxon to all other members of the genus. The species included two main clades (regional western and eastern) that diverged in a period between the Early and Middle Pleistocene. Based on the BBM and S-Diva analyses, both dispersal and vicariance events explained the phylogeographic structure of the species in the Hyrcanian Forests. The historical demographic analyses using Bayesian skyline plots showed a mild increase in the effective population size from about 120 Kya for the western regional clade. According to phylogeographic structures and SDMs evidence, as in other species within the region, it appears that the south of the Caspian Sea (Hyrcanian Forests), and the Alborz Mountains acted as multiple refu gia during cold periods and promoted expansion outwards amid the warm periods. Overall, the results provided evidence that the genetic structure of the species has been influenced by the Pleistocene climatic fluctuations.
Sabolic, I. (2021) -
Within a competitive exclusion experiment conducted in 1971, five pairs of Podarcis siculus lizards were transferred from islet Pod Kopište to a nearby islet of Pod Mrĉaru in the Adriatic Sea. In only 35 years the newly established population exhibited significant morphological and ecological changes. This study combines experimental common garden approach with population genomics tools to discriminate between plastic and genomic response in Pod Mrĉaru population. Crossing experiment in common garden pointed towards medium to high heritability of diverged phenotypic traits related to head shape, indicating they hold enough additive genetic variance to evolve under selection. Genotyping by sequencing elucidated genome-wide divergence between Pod Mrĉaru and Pod Kopište populations. 18 loci putatively under selection were found to be associated with divergent phenotypic traits in source and newly established population, and/or differences in ecological variables among multiple P. siculus populations, suggesting rapid genomic adaptation on the islet of Pod Mrĉaru.
Sabolic, I. & Mira, O. & Brandt, D.Y.C. & Lisicic, D. & Stapley, J. & Novosolov, M. & Bakaric, R. & Cizelj, I. & Glogoski, M. & Hudina, T. & Taverne, M. & Allentoft, M.E. & Nielsen, R. & Herrel, A. & Stambuk, A. (2023) -
Understanding how phenotypic divergence arises among natural populations remains one of the major goals in evolutionary biology. As part of competitive exclusion experiment conducted in 1971, 10 individuals of Italian wall lizard {Podarcis siculus (Rafinesque-Schmaltz, 1810)) were transplanted from Pod Kopiste Island to the nearby island of Pod Mrcaru (Adriatic Sea). Merely 35years after the introduction, the newly established population on Pod Mrcaru Island had shifted their diet from predominantly insectivorous towards omnivorous and changed significantly in a range of morphological, behavioural, physiological and ecological characteristics. Here, we combine genomic and quantitative genetic approaches to determine the relative roles of genetic adaptation and phenotypic plasticity in driving this rapid phenotypic shift. Our results show genome-wide genetic differentiation between ancestral and transplanted population, with weak genetic erosion on Pod Mrcaru Island. Adaptive processes following the founder event are indicated by highly differentiated genomic loci associating with ecologically relevant phenotypic traits, and/or having a putatively adaptive role across multiple lizard populations. Diverged traits related to head size and shape or bite force showed moderate heritability in a crossing experiment, but between-population differences in these traits did not persist in a common garden environment. Our results confirm the existence of sufficient additive genetic variance for traits to evolve under selection while also demonstrating that phenotypic plasticity and/or genotype by environment interactions are the main drivers of population differentiation at this early evolutionary stage.
Sacchi, C. (1961) -
Sacchi, R. & Capelli, E. & Scali, S. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Ghitti, M. & Acerbi, E. & Pingitore, W. (2014) -
Ecological immunology attempts to explain the variability of immune response among individuals by invoking costs and trade-offs, which may optimize the immune defence against pathogens. In ectotherms body temperature is correlated to that of the surrounding environment, so that their entire physiology, including immune functions, is influenced by the environmental temperature. We used in vitro phytohaemoagglutinin (PHA) stimulation in order to assess the effects of temperature on cell mediated adaptive response in male and female Common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis). Cell cultures were prepared from blood samples, inoculated with PHA and incubated at 22°C, 25°C, 32°C, and 38°C for three days. PHA stimulation caused proliferation of T-lymphocytes, but the effect depended on the incubation temperature. Lymphocyte proliferation was significantly impaired at both 22°C and 38°C compared to 32°C, which represented the highest levels of activation. Furthermore, lymphocyte activation was more variable in males while females were less immune suppressed than males at low temperatures. Differences between sexes suggest a possible influence of steroid hormones.
Sacchi, R. & Coladonato, A. & Ghitti, M. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Bovo, M. & Zuffi, M. (2017) -
Colour polymorphism often is associated with alternative reproductive strategies and may reflect different adaptive optima that coexist within populations. The equilibrium among morph frequencies is maintained by the occurrence of opposite selective pressures (disruptive vs stabilizing), which promote polymorphism while preserving gene flow. Sexual selection may contribute on both sides, particularly when morphs do not mate randomly. Reptiles offer a good model, notably lizards. Nevertheless, previous studies on mate choice in polymorphic lizards have generated contrasting results, with some studies suggesting that female morphs might tune their preference depending on environmental/social conditions such as crowding. We experimentally manipulated the number of individuals a female common wall lizard Podarcis muralis perceives around her, to test if females of different morphs (white or yellow) tune their choice for white and yellow males in order to maximize the probability that hatchlings follow the strategy best adapted to the population density. Results showed that crowding experienced by females did not affect mate choice, arguing against a flexible choice strategy by females. However, white females significantly associated with white males, whereas yellow females did not significantly associate with yellow males. Thus, sexual selection could contribute to the maintenance of colour polymorphism in this species by a mix of assortative and non-assortative mating strategies, which could maintain the equilibrium between gene divergence and gene flow among morphs.
Sacchi, R. & Coladonato, A.J. & Battaiola, M. & Pasquariello, C. & Buratti, S. & Matellini, C. Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2021) -
Game theory models predict the outcome of a dyadic contest to depend on opponents’ asymmetries in three main traits: resource-holding potential (RHP), resource value (RV) and aggressiveness. Using male common wall lizards Podarcis muralis, a polymorphic species showing three discrete morphs (white, yellow, and red), we investigated how the aggressive behavior varies according to a change in subjective RV and color morphs, while controlling for the asymmetry in RHP (using mirrors). By comparing the aggression of the same individual towards its mirror image in two different arenas (familiar = high subjective RV; novel = low subjective RV), we showed that lizard aggressive behavior was more intense and prolonged in the familiar arena than in the new one, thus supporting the occurrence of a direct relationship between motivation and aggression in this species. We also found the overall aggressiveness to differ from individual to individual, supporting the general hypothesis that aggressiveness is a trait associated with personality. By contrast, no effect of morphs was detected, ruling out the occurrence of morph specific variation in the aggressiveness. Our results highlight that an individual’s motivation and personality might be as important as RHP and RV in the resolution of animal contests.
Sacchi, R. & Coladonato, A.J. & Scali, S. & Mangiacotti, M. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2022) -
Monitoring population changes and trends is a central task in conservation. However, obtaining detailed information for wide and low accessible areas, such as remote islands, is challenging, and cannot be achieved with conventional approaches, such as capture–mark–recapture protocols (CMR). In this paper, we show that combining N-mixture models with ecological niche modeling allows assessing reliable estimates of population size over large target areas on short time intervals. We used it to estimate the population size of a subspecies of the Italian wall lizards (Podarcis siculus calabresiae) endemic to the Island of Montecristo (10.39 km 2 in surface). During a single week, we first generated a niche model of the species based on satellite images sampled few days before sampling. Then, we estimated lizard abundance through Bayesian N-mixture models on repeated counts (n = 3) along transects (n = 6), settled in different areas of habitat suitability defined on the basis of the niche model. Finally, we estimated in approximately 20.000 the total number of lizards living in the Island by extrapolating the values computed on transects to the areas of the islands with the same suitability estimated by the niche model. The procedure can be easily repeated allowing monitoring the status of conservation of the species in the island of Montecristo. More in general, this procedure has the potential to be applied to monitor any other species of conservation interest in remote areas whenever detailed satellite images are available.
Sacchi, R. & Cominetti, D. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Mangiacotti, M. (2024) -
The variability in behavioural syndromes at different scale levels (e.g., within population or among species) is relevant in ecological and evolutionary patterns. It provides the basis on which natural selection can act to promote evolutionary processes. Additionally, behavioural syndromes can be seen as a form of pre-adaptation, favouring a species’ ability to cope with novel selective pressures, establish in new habitats, enhancing population stability, and dealing with deseases and parasites. We assessed repeatability (two replicates for individual) for five behavioural traits (activity, boldness including components of exploration and escape, sociability, and foraging activity) and tested the occurrence of behavioural syndromes in both sexes of three taxa of lacertid lizards: two clades of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis maculiventris and P. m. nigriventris), and the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus). All behavioural traits except sociability were repeatable in all the three taxa. Our findings clearly reveal the occurrence of a behavioural syndrome related to the propensity to move through and explore new enviroments, escape from predation risk, and successfully capture prey. We also provide empirical evidence for higher repeatability of behaviours in males compared to females, as well as differences in behavioural syndromes at the taxon-level. These results support the occurrence of personality in both common and Italian wall lizards, highlighting marked variability in personality across different scales. This variability could ultimately reflect the interaction between the specific needs inherent in both sexes within each species, and the environmental/competitive context in which these needs are fulfilled.
Sacchi, R. & Ghitti, M. & Scali, S. & Mangiacotti, M. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Sannolo, M. & Coladonato, A.J. & Pasqueti, G. & Bovo, M. & Pelitteri-Rosa, D. (2015) -
Identifying the processes that lead to the evolution and maintenance of links between colour morphs and behavioural strategies has implications for the evolution of reproductive isolation and sympatric speciation. Sexual selection may play a significant role in the evolution of colour pattern complexity in reptiles, particularly when there are fitness consequences associated with mating with males of different colour morphs. In this article, we explored if common wall lizard females (Podarcis muralis) actively select males according to their morph in a colour-assortative pattern using a multiple-choice experiment with both visual and chemical cues. We failed to identify female active mate choice, as females did not choose males based on male colouration or femoral pore secretions. Indeed, females equally entered the three preference compartments and spent nearly the same amount of time within them, irrespective of both colour and odour of males. Consequently, our results do not support the hypothesis that colour polymorphism in this species may be driven by colour-assortative mating promoted by females. However, we cannot exclude the possibility that females may choose males according to their colour following a flexible choice strategy, nor the possibility that females actively discriminate among males according to qualities that are not directly related to morph-specific strategies.
Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Coladonato, A.J. & Falaschi, M. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2020) -
The leukocyte profile has the potential to be a reliable method to measure health conditions and stress in wild animals, but limitations occur because current knowledge on reference intervals is largely incomplete, especially because data come from studies on captive animals involving few individuals from single populations. Here we propose a general framework for achieving reliable leukocyte reference intervals, encompassing a set of internal and external factors, potentially affecting the leukogram. To do so, we present a systematic survey of the hematology of the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, involving 794 lizards from 54 populations over the whole geographic range of the species in Italy. Reference intervals for white blood cell (WBC) and leukocyte differential count were obtained by using linear mixed models in a Bayesian framework. The application of the procedure clearly showed that both internal (sex and size) and external (latitude and season) factors are a source of variation of leukocyte profile. Furthermore, the leukogram of common wall lizard has a strong variability among populations, which accounts for more than 50% of the whole variation. Consequently, some common assumptions used in studies on captive individuals are no longer supported in wild populations, namely, i) any group of individuals is a representative sample, ii) any population is representative of all others, iii) geographic clines do not occur over the species range, and iv) seasonal variation has limited effects. We encourage researchers aimed at the definition of leukocyte reference intervals for wild populations of reptiles to involve a large number of populations over a wide geographic range in ad hoc statistical models to disentangle local and geographic effects on leukocyte profile variation.
Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Donati, E. & Coladonato, A.J. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2022) -
attracting interest since it reflects morph local adaptation. A recent study in the Pyrenees associated the pattern of geographic variation in morph frequency of the common wall lizard with the divergence in climatic niches, supporting the hypothesis that morphs represent alternative local climatic adaptations. However, the Pyrenees represent only a small portion of the species range. Aims: We modelled the ecological niches of Italian morphs using the same procedure adopted for the Pyrenees to check whether the effects detected at local scales (i.e. the Pyrenees) were repeatable at regional scales (i.e. Italy). This generalisation is needed to investigate how natural selection maintains locally adapted polymorphisms. Methods: We classified each locality (120 populations) according to the presence/absence of morphs, and independent Ecological Niche Models (ENMs) against the same background were fitted. Receiver Operating Curves accounting for sampling biases, equivalency and similarity tests were used to check and compare models accounting for spatial distribution of data. Key results: Morph-specific ENMs did not reproduce any of the patterns detected in the Pyrenees. Any difference among morphs disappeared after controlling for morph spatial distribution. Since occurrence points of the rarest morphs were a subsample of the occurrence points of the most common morph, it is not possible to separate the effects of true ecological differences among morphs from the effects of the spatial distribution patterns of morph occurrence. Conclusions: Using presence data not specifically collected for ENM comparisons does not allow reliable assessments of morph niche segregation. Our analysis points out the need to be very cautious in ecological interpretations of ENMs built on presence/background or presence-only data when occurrences are spatially nested. Implications: When dealing with data not specifically collected according to a targeted design, it is not legitimate to compare ENMs with completely nested occurrence points, because this approach can not exclude the possibility that ENM differences were the result of a spatial subsampling. This type of bias is probably largely underestimated, and it may lead to serious misinterpretations as shown in this study.
Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Ghitti, M. & Bindolini, B. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2016) -
Head shape in lizards correlates with a wide range of environmental pressures, supporting the hypothesis that patterns of phenotypic change represent adaptive responses to selective processes. However, natural selection promotes evolutionary adaptation only if the trait under selection has enough heritable variation. In this study we used geometric morphometrics and quantitative genetics to assess the heritability patterns of the head shape and size of common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis). Genetic and phenotypic components were estimated using animal models, which showed that more than half of the variation in head morphology is inheritable. Furthermore, at least five independent patterns of genetically determined phenotypic change were detected. These outcomes confirm that morphological differentiation in common wall lizards may reliably be regarded as the result of adaptive processes driven by natural selection.
Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Ghitti, M. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2016) -
Colour polymorphism is the coexistence in one interbreeding population of two or more distinct and genetically determined colour forms, the least abundant of which is present in numbers too great to be due solely to recurrent mutation. The persistence of different morphs in a species is generally associated with the coexistence of alternative reproductive strategies, which involve specific trade- offs among behavioural, morphological, physiological, and other life history characteristics. However, most of evidence supporting this hypothesis is still correlative, and only few studies have checked it experimentally. The common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) is a small-sized lacertid, showing highly polymorphic coloration in belly and throat, with three main phenotypes (i.e., white, yellow and red). All these morphs can occur in both sexes and within the same population, and are characterized by different phenotypic traits (i.e., body size, immuno-competence and stamina, homing behaviour, diet, and stress responses). Here, we experimentally tested the hypothesis that morphs represent alternative physiological optima for immune response with respect to body temperature. We used in vitro phytohaemoagglutinin (PHA) stimulation of T-lymphocytes performed at two opposite thermal conditions, i.e. low (22°C) and high temperature (32°C). Cell cultures were prepared from blood samples, inoculated with PHA and incubated for three days. Lymphocyte proliferation was lower in females than in males, particularly at 32°C. Irrespective of temperature, yellow males were immunosuppressed with respect to other males, confirming previous results obtained by in-vivo experiments. More interestingly, lymphocyte proliferation in white and red females sensibly decreased from 22°C to 32°C, while yellow females resumed the immunosuppressive effects of both morph and temperature thus showing the lowest immune response at both temperatures. Overall, these results confirm that the immune response of males and females depend on temperature and this relationship is morph specific, thus supporting the hypothesis that colour morph in the common wall lizard represent different physiological optima.
Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Ghitti, M. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2017) -
Colour polymorphism in reptiles is generally associated with the coexistence of alternative reproductive strategies that involve specific trade-offs among different life history traits. Notably, body temperature trades off with immunocompetence: temperature has relevant effects on immune-response, but maintaining the optimal temperature increases both energetic costs and predatory risk. This trade-off gains complexity by sex, since males and females could optimize fitness by different strategies. Given that there is no single solution for trade-offs, different links among alternative evolutionary stable solutions and morphs might evolve independently in each sex. We tested this hypothesis in the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) by means of in vitro cultures of blood cells in order to examine the response of the immune-system to phytohemoagglutinin stimulation in male and female morphs at two different temperatures (i.e. 22 and 32 °C), corresponding to the thermal optima of the two sexes. We found (i) morphspecific immunity in both sexes, i.e. yellow lizards suffer immunosuppression with respect to the other morphs, and (ii) sex-specific immunity under hot conditions, i.e. females of all morphs were immunosuppressed with respect to males. Results support the hypothesis that morphs might differently invest in immunocompetence, according to different set-up for the trade-offs between immunity and other life-history traits, resulting in alternative strategies with different fitness optima.
Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Sannolo, M. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Bellati, A. & Galeoti, P. & Fasola, M. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2013) -
Sexual dimorphism is a widespread phenomenon among animals and is generally interpreted as the result of both natural and sexual selection. When sexual dimorphism evolves through sexual selection, theory predicts the exaggeration of male ornaments and/or armaments, and only males in better condition or with high genetic quality can sustain the costs for their expression. Sexual selection on male traits is expected to result in a condition-dependent sexual dimorphism (CDSD) if the variability of environmental factors affects the quantity and quality of metabolic resources that can be actually allocated to secondary sexual characters by males. Most evidence supporting CDSD came from insects, and few studies have been performed on vertebrates, mainly because of troubles in carrying out experiments under captivity. In this scenario, islands offer a unique opportunity to compare how the environment affects the expression of sexual dimorphism, since they represent a “natural experiment” in which different populations of the same species experience environmental constraints differing for both quality and intensity. We investigated the occurrence of CDSD in head shape of common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) inhabiting the Tuscan Archipelago using a geometric morphometric approach. Our sample included 209 lizards (125 males and 84 females) from seven islands and two paleo-islands. Data consists of x and y coordinates of 32 landmarks located at the intersections of the head scales and four semi-landmarks. Shape variables were obtained through generalized procrustes superimposition, and seven alternative models were formulated accounting for as many alternative hypotheses. H0, assumes that the sexual dimorphism is uninfluenced by islands, H1, assumes the effect of only phylogeny, H2 and H3 account for the phylogeography of the Tuscan archipelago, H4 and H5 combine phylogeny and phylogeography, while H6 assumes island specific effects on sexual dimorphism. Models were compared using Akaike informative criterion adjusted for multivariate analyses. All hypotheses performed better than H0, suggesting that sexual dimorphism in common wall lizards is actually affected by phylogeny, phylogeography and local environmental conditions. However, H6 largely outperformed all other alternative hypotheses, indicating that local environmental conditions are the most relevant factor affecting the variability of sexual dimorphism of head shape. A variance partitioning analysis confirmed that sexual dimorphism actually differs among island. In conclusion our results support the hypothesis of the occurrence of CDSD in common wall lizards.
Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Sannolo, M. & Zuffi, M.L. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Bellati, A. Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2015) -
The condition-dependent sexual dimorphism model explains the evolution and maintenance of sexual dimorphism in traits targeted by sexual selection, and predicts that the magnitude of sexual dimorphism depends on the variability of individual condition, male traits being more variable than female corresponding traits. Most convincing examples concern insects, while studies among vertebrates are scanty because manipulating condition often is not possible, and the time to reach sexual maturity may be too long. Islands offer a unique opportunity to compare how the environment affects the expression of sexual dimorphism, since they represent ‘natural experimental sets’ in which different populations of the same species may experience alternative environmental constraints. We investigated the occurrence of context-dependent expression in sexual dimorphism of head shape in insular populations of the common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) inhabiting the Tuscan Archipelago (Tyrrhenian Sea). Alternative models were formulated: H0 assumes that the sexual dimorphism is uninfluenced by islands, H1 assumes the only effect of phylogeny, H2A and H2B account for the biogeography of the archipelago (island size and distance from the mainland), while H3 assumes island-specific effects on sexual dimorphism. Models were compared using Akaike’s information criterion adjusted for multivariate analyses. All hypotheses performed better than H0, but H3 largely outperformed all other alternative hypotheses, indicating that environmental features of islands play an additive effect to ontogenetic, biogeographic and genetic factors in defining variation in head shape sexual dimorphism. Our results support the hypothesis of a context-dependent sexual dimorphism in common wall lizards.
Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Storniolo, F. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2023) -
The evolution of sexual dimorphism (SD) results from intricate interactions between sexual and natural selections. Sexually selected traits are expected to depend on individual condition, while natural selected traits should not be. Islands offer an ideal context to test how these drivers interact with one another, as the size is a reliable proxy for resource availability. Here, we analysed SD in body size (snout-vent length) and head shape (assessed by geometric morphometric) in two species of lizards (Podarcis muralis and P. siculus) inhabiting the Tuscan archipelago (Central Italy). We found a strong SD variation among islands in both species. Furthermore, in P. muralis emerged some significant correlations between SD and island size, supporting the occurrence of possible effects of individual condition on SD. By contrast, SD in P. siculus followed opposite trajectories than in P. muralis, suggesting that in this species, natural selection could play a major role as a driver of SD. Our findings show that natural and sexual selection can interact in complex ways, and the responses are species-specific. Therefore, spatial patterns of variation in SD may strongly differ among species, even when they settle in the same geographic contes.
Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M. & Riccia, M. & Colodonato, A.J. & Storniolo, F. (2022) -
The signals animals use in intraspecific communication are usually extremely conspicuous because they serve to convey honest information about their quality in order to maximize their mating success. Precisely because they are flashy, communication signals tend to increase the possibility of being detected by predators, leading to a reduction of individual fitness. There are different evolutionary solutions to solve this trade-off between the opposing requirements of camouflage and communication, including multi-channel signal systems, in which information is encoded in more than one type of signal. In the March-October 2019 period we characterized the dorsal colouration and the structure of the proteins of the femoral secretions in a sample of 228 male Italian wall lizards captured at the Certosa di Calci (Pi). The results of the analyses support the hypothesis that color and secretions may be part of a multi-channel communication system.
Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2016) -
Sacchi, R. & Marchesi, M. & Gentilli, A. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Scali, S. & Borelli, A. (2011) -
The conservation status of the Western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) in Italy is probably not favourable. In the Po plain the species is rapidly declining outside of the protected areas, mainly because of the loss of hedges and natural vegetation in general. In this paper, we analysed the preference by Western green lizard on the ecotone features in a large population settled in Northern Italy, in order to detect the habitat characteristics of the ecotones that could explain the occurrence of the species. We monitored a Western green lizard population by using the line-transect method from May to September 2006-2007 in a regional park (24.000 ha) located along the Adda river, and we investigated species habitat requirements by comparing presence/absence plots through compositional analysis and multi-model inference. Out of the 25 variables considered, the only two differing between used and not used ecotones were related to soil type (litter soils were preferred) and wood layer (autochthonous natural woods were preferred), suggesting that Western green lizard used the ecotonal zones of the park irrespective of their structure and composition. This result has important implication on management and conservation of the species in Northern Italy, as the occurrence of the species appears to be favoured by the presence of ecotones itself rather than by their quality.
Sacchi, R. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Bellati, A. & Di Paolo, A. & Ghitti, M. & Scali, S. & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2013) -
Intra-specific colour variation may either reflect a discrete polymorphism, potentially related to lifehistory strategies; a continuous signal, which may be related to individual quality; or a combination of both. Understanding the true nature of this colour variation may thus help to identify the possible selective mechanism producing it. The common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) exhibits polymorphic colouration, both sexes showing three pure morphs differing in throat and belly colouration (white, yellow and red) and three intermediate morphs (white-yellow, white-red, and yellow-red). In this study we used digital photography and image analysis (RGB system) to investigate colour variation among morphs, sexes and populations. We found that colouration of the six phenotypes results from the combination of three discrete colour tinges (white, red and yellow): pure morphs express a single colour, and no continuous variation exists among them. Similarly, ventral parts of the intermediate white-red and yellow-red morphs present a mixture of two discrete colours resulting from the concurrent expression in different scales of the same colours showed by the corresponding pure morphs. Finally, the white-yellow intermediates show the same colour tinge than pure yellow morph, but with a lower intensity. The finding that white-yellow lizards are smaller than all other ones suggests that they might be subadults not yet expressing the full yellow colouration. Morph colouration significantly varied among sexes, suggesting a possible role for hormone plasma levels in controlling colour expression. It is noteworthy that RGB values varied among sites, indicating that colour expression in this species holds some level of environmental plasticity. Therefore, our results confirmed the presence of discrete colour morphs, which may be genetically based in both sexes of common wall lizards. However, our findings also showed intra-individual variation in colour expression within a morph that is associated with habitat occupancy, which suggests phenotypic plasticity in morphs.
Sacchi, R. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Bellati, A. & Scali, S. & Tronconi, D. & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2012) -
Bei der Mauereidechse Podarcis muralis (LAURENTI, 1768) treten mehrere Farbmuster-Typen der Rückenzeichnung auf: (I) eine mehr oder weniger durchgehende Rückenmittellinie auf einem hellen Rückenband ohne weitere Musterung. (II) ein dunkles Netzmuster ohne Vertebrallinie und (III) eine Zwischenform, bei der das dunkle Netzmuster eine mehr oder wenioger durchgehende Rückenmittellinie bildet. Diese Farbmuster-Typen repräsentieren unterschiedliche Melaninverteilungen auf dem Rücken un d könnten Thermoregulation, Mimese und Sexualverhalten beeinflussen. Die Autoren untersuchten die Häufigkeitsverteilung dieser Farbmuster-Typen im Hinblick auf Geschlecht, Kopf-Rumpf-Löänge und Fundorthöhe (submongtan und planar). Eine Rückenmittellinie war bei der submontanen Mauereidechsen-Population häufiger als in der Population der Ebene, und bei den Weibchen häufiger als bei den Männchen ausgebildet. Darüber hinaus trat sie in der submontanen Population bei großen Tieren häufiger auf als bei kleinen, während für die Tieflandpopulation das Gegenteil festgestellt wurde. Die in Bezug auf Geschlecht, Körpergröße und vertikale Verfbreitung beobachteten Unterschiede in der Häufigkeit der Farbmuster-Morphen könnten mit unterschiedlicher Temperatur- und Mikrohabitatwahl in Zusammenhang stehen.
Sacchi, R. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Capelli, A. & Ghitti, M. & Di Paoli, A. & Bellati, A. & Scali, S. & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2012) -
Ultrasound imaging is a promising technique for studying the reproductive biology of reptiles, but it has yet to be validated for small lizards in field research. This study aimed both at assessing the reliability of ultrasound imaging in field research and the measurement of the breeding effort and timing of reproduction in the northern Italian female population of the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis. To this end, we kept 22 gravid females in captivity in April and June 2010 and used ultrasonography to predict the number of eggs they laid. The following year, we applied the same technique to monitor the breeding performance of females in their natural habitat. We collected 119 females between March and June 2011 and used ultrasonography to evaluate clutch size and egg developmental stage. Our results showed that 20 out of 22 females (91%) laid the exact number of eggs predicted. The field research showed that the percentage of gravid females varied over the season, showing a clear bimodal pattern with two peaks in late April and late May. These peaks corresponded to the first and second clutch depositions, respectively. Furthermore, female common wall lizards reach sexual maturity at a body size of 50–51 mm snout–vent length, at around 2 years of age. Mean clutch size in our population ranged from 2 to 5.5 eggs, with an average of 3.6 eggs. There was a strong positive relationship between clutch and female size, which was only statistically significant in the first deposition. The female lizards in our study were smaller than those in French and central European populations, they reached maturity at 50.9 mm and they laid few eggs. In this paper, we discuss some potential explanations for such differences.
Sacchi, R. & Polo, M.F. & Coladonato, A.J. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2018) -
Developing trustworthy biomarkers is of primary importance in monitoring impacts of environmental stressors on biological systems. Recently, fluctuating asymmetry in morphological traits of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) has been proposed as useful tools for assessing environmental disturbance in urban habitats. However, the experimental design used in previous studies lacked both site replication (only one urban area was sampled) and independent assessment of the physiological conditions of lizards. Hence, we replicated the analysis involving three large cities in Northern Italy and measured lizards’ health conditions as assessed by blood sampling analyses. We found a weak statistical association between fluctuating asymmetry and urban habitat. No significant differences occurred for white blood cell concentration and heterophils-to-lymphocytes ratio, whereas parasite load was significantly lower in urban than natural populations. Finally, somewhat of the variability in fluctuating asymmetry correlated with one or more latent variables not directly observed, but still not related to the habitat. Contrary to previous studies, we concluded that fluctuating asymmetry cannot be regarded as a reliable measure of urban environmental stresses. Despite this, fluctuating asymmetry in the morphology of common wall lizards has a real potential for working as biomarkers, but we need to clarify first the developmental mechanisms, the true effectors of the stress, their interactions and their effects on individual fitness in order to solve the inconsistencies occurring among different studies.
Sacchi, R. & Pupin, F. & Gentilli, A. & Rubolini, D. & Sali, S. & Fasola, M. & Galeotti, P. (2009) -
Theoretical models predict that the outcome of dyadic agonistic encounters between males is influenced by resource-holding potential, resource value, and intrinsic aggressiveness of contestants. Moreover, in territorial disputes residents enjoy a further obvious competitive advantage from the residency itself, owing to the intimate familiarity with their territory. Costs of physical combats are, however, dramatically high in many instances. Thus, signals reliably reflecting fighting ability of the opponents could easily evolve in order to reduce these costs. For example, variation in color morph in polymorphic species has been associated with dominance in several case studies. In this study, we staged asymmetric resident-intruder encounters in males of the common wall lizard Podarcis muralis, a species showing three discrete morphs (white, yellow, and red) to investigate the effects of asymmetries in color morph, residency, and size between contestants on the outcome of territorial contests. We collected aggression data by presenting each resident male with three intruders of different color morph, in three consecutive tests conducted in different days, and videotaping their interactions. The results showed that simple rules such as residency and body size differences could determine the outcome of agonistic interactions: residents were more aggressive than intruders, and larger males were competitively superior to smaller males. However, we did not find any effect of color on male aggression or fighting success, suggesting that color polymorphism in this species is not a signal of status or fighting ability in intermale conflicts.
Sacchi, R. & Pupin, F. & Gentilli, A. & Rubolini, D. & Scali, S. & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2007) -
Common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) exhibit a syntopic colour polymorphism in both sexes, with three main morphs differing for the throat and belly colourations (white, yellow and red). In this study, we investigated whether territorial behaviour of males could be predicted by colour morph. Thirty three sexually mature males – 11 for each morph – were collected, kept in outdoor individual plastic cages, and fed for at least three weeks before starting the experiment. Then, each male was paired in its own cage with three males – one for each morph – in three consecutive trials at one day interval. By this procedure, we simulated the natural situation where one resident male finds a conspecific intruder in its own home range. All trials were video recorded to count the number of the aggressive (e.g. bites and running away) and submissive displays used by each contestant. Aggressive response of resident male in the first trial was predicted only by size asymmetries (stepdown ANCOVA: b=1.51 ± 0.51, t=2.97, P=0.006), but when all trials were considered, only the prior experience (i.e., the outcome in the previous encounter) had a significant effect (stepdown mixed model ANOVA: b=0.38 ± 0.10, t=3.63, P=0.0014). The effects of colour morphs of the two contestants were always negligible. These results suggest that short-term prior experience may override size asymmetries in territorial contests in this species, and colour polymorphism does not seem to reflect different territorial strategies as it occurs in other polymorphic lizards.
Sacchi, R. & Rubolini, D. & Gentilli, A. & Pupin, F. & Razzetti, E. & Scali, S. & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2006) -
Sacchi, R. & Rubolini, D. & Gentilli, A. & Pupin, J. & Razzetti, E. & Scali, S. & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2007) -
Permanent colour polymorphism in lizards is maintained by complex interactions between environmental pressures and physiological traits (such as immune responsiveness) that differ among morphs. In this study we investigated whether T-cell mediated immune response vary among male colour morphs in the trimorphic (white, yellow and red) common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis. We found that yellow males showed a lower immune response compared to both red and white males, whose responses were similar. Thus, immune responsiveness is morph-specific in male common wall lizards, suggesting that this physiological trait could play an important role in maintaining colour polymorphism in this species. Moreover, immune responsiveness significantly increased with increasing male size, irrespective of colour morph, indicating that it could be regarded as a condition-dependent trait.
Sacchi, R. & Scali, R. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Pupin, F. & Gentilli, A. & Tettamanti, S. & Cavigioli, L. & Maiocchi, V. & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2010) -
Photographic identification is a promising marking technique alternative to the toe-clipping, since it is completely harmless, cheap, and it allows long time identification of individuals. Its application to ecological studies is mainly limited by the time consuming to compare pictures within large datasets and the huge variation of ornamentation patterns among different species, which prevent the possibility that a single algorithm can effectively work for more than few species. Scales of Reptiles offer an effective alternative to ornamentations for computer aided identification procedures, since both shape and size of scales are unique to each individual, thus acting as a fingerprint like ornamentation patterns do. We used the Interactive Individual Identification System (I3S) software to assess whether different individuals of two species of European lizards (Podarcis muralis and Lacerta bilineata) can be reliably photographically identified using the pattern of the intersections among pectoral scales as fingerprints. We found that I3S was able to identify different individuals among two samples of 21 individuals for each species independently from the error associated to the ability of the operators in collecting pictures and in digitizing the pattern of intersections among pectoral scales. In a database of 1043 images of P. muralis collected between 2007 and 2008, the software recognized 98% of recaptures within each year, and 99% of the recaptures between years. In addition, 99% and 96% of matches were ranked among the top five, and no more than 5 minutes were needed for digitizing and processing each image. The lepidosis of reptiles is a reliable alternative to ornamentation patterns in photographic identification of reptiles, which can be effectively analysed using the I3S software. This result represents a significant improvement in photographic identification of reptiles since (i) this procedure can be easily extended to most other species of reptiles, (ii) all kind of individuals within a species can be marked (i.e., young, subadults and adults) despite the differences in ornamentation patterns, and (iii) it is the only technique for species, like the western green lizard, which lack a clear ornamentation pattern.
Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. (2016) -
Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. & Cavirani, V. & Pupin, F. & Pelitteri-Rosa, D. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2011) -
The present study reports the morphology of leukocytes of 12 European lacertid lizards (Podarcis sicula, P. tiliguerta, P. melisellensis, P. bocagei, P. muralis, Algyroides nigropunctatus, Lacerta viridis, L. bilineata, L. trilineata, L. oxycephala, Timon lepidus, and Zootoca vivipara) stained using May–Grünwald/Giemsa method. The morphology of white blood cells was very similar among species, suggesting a relative morphological uniformity within the lacertid lizards. For six species (i.e. P. sicula, P. tiliguerta, P. melisellensis, P. bocagei, P. muralis, and A. nigropunctatus), we determined the leukocyte differential counts, which may be considered representative of the normal values of the corresponding populations. These results may be useful either in clinical investigation to detect pathologies in wild individuals, as in management and conservation projects to assess the general health conditions of natural wild lizard populations.
Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. & Fasola, M. & Galeotti, P. (2007) -
Photographic identification is a promising marking technique alternative to the toe-clipping, but is time consuming, particularly when a large number of individuals is involved. Fot this reason several authors had frequently preferred the toe-clipping. In this study we analysed the black spot pattern of ventral scales of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) and we showed that photographic identification is an effective method for recognizing individuals, and the error of this technique is much less than that of the toe-clipping arising from natural toe loss. Moreover, the numerically encoding of the black spot pattern may radically reduce the time needed to compare of pictures of large samples of individuals, solving one of the more important obstacle against the use of photographic identification.
Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. & Mangiacotti, M. & Coladonato, A.J. & Pitoni, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Falaschi, M. (2021) -
Characterizing the physiological responses of wild animals to stressors, including humaninduced landscape changes, is an important question with deep implications for both animal conservation and theoretical issues. Quantifying the levels of adrenal glucocorticoid hormones in plasma are one of the most popular procedure for assessing physiological stress in animals. However, hormone assays are expensive and may be difficult in field situations. For example, the assessment of stress through measurement of plasma corticosterone requires a quantification of the baseline value that must occur within a few minutes of capture (usually 2-3 minutes), even if in most species the exact time has not been defined accurately. The leukocyte formula has the potential to be a reliable method for measuring stress in vertebrates in an alternative way to hormone dosage. For example, neutrophils (heterophils in birds and reptiles) and lymphocytes respond in opposite ways to stress, so that their relationship is generally positively correlated to circulating glucocorticoids and to the magnitude of the stress factor. Also the increase in the total number of leukocytes (leukocytosis) or the increase in the number of eosinophils (eosinocytosis) have been used as a proxy of stress, but with conflicting results. Compared to hormonal analysis, leukocytes has two major advantages: 1) the count of white blood cells starting from blood smears is simpler and cheaper, 2) the initial response of leukocytes begins within a few hours (or days), making it easier to evaluate a baseline. However, the interpretation of the leukocyte formula remains difficult because the leukocyte profile does not always provide information on the ability of individuals to trigger an immune response. A serious problem for the interpretation of differential leukocyte counts is the almost complete lack of information on the reference intervals (mean and variation intervals) for `normal` individuals, especially for wild populations. Without a definition of the baseline levels it is practically impossible to establish whether the counts observed in a given individual are high or low compared to the leukocyte profile of healthy conspecifics. This study focuses on the definition of the reference values for the Common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) throughout the Italian range and on the evaluation of how these values change in relation to sex, season and geographical cline. The analysis was conducted between March and September 2010- 2016 in 54 sites, on a sample of 794 individuals (498 males and 296 females). The data collected allowed to define with precision (CV = 13%) the basal values of the species and to identify sexual differences, seasonal oscillations and variations in relation to the latitude.
Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. & Mangiacotti, M. & Ruffo, D. (2021) -
The research on animal colouration has always been of great interest for biologists but since the last decades it has grown exponentially thanks to multidisciplinary approaches. Animals have found several ways to deal with the camouflage/com- munication trade-off in colouration, leading to the evolution of alternative patterns of variation of colourations at different levels including signal partitioning and spatial resolution of colouration. In this paper we analyse the variability of dorsal and ventral colouration in males and females of Maltese wall lizards in three populations on Linosa. We collected high- resolution digital images of dorsal, ventral and throat colouration from 61 lizards (32 males and 29 females). We showed that the colouration differs among sexes and body regions within the same individual. Colourations are also variable among individuals within population, as well as among different populations across the Island. Finally, we detected a lizard’s col- ouration shifts with increasing body size. Those result supports the hypothesis that colouration in this species evolved under the competing pressures of natural and sexual selection to promote signals that are visible to conspecifics while being less perceptible to avian predators.
Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. & Mangiacotti, M. & Sannolo, M. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Pupin, F. & Gentilli, A. & Bonnet, X. (2014) -
Identifying the processes on the basis of the evolution and maintenance of colour polymorphisms is one of the major goals in evolutionary biology. The occurrence in the same population of different morphs implies the occurrence of alternative strategies, which represent alternative, locally adapted, optima within a single species. Podarcis muralis is a small-sized lacertid that shows a marked territorial behaviour as males fight to defend their territories from males. The species expresses a highly polymorphic coloration in ventral and throat scales, with three main morphs (i.e. white, yellow and red). In last decades, the colour polymorphism of this species has been the subject of several studies, which found so me phenotypic differences associated with each morph. For example, divergence among morphs emerged in body size, immunecompetence in captivity, homing behaviour and reaction to stress. Levels of circulating sex hormones can play an important role, either through organizational or activational effects, in triggering the expression of these alternative reproductive morphs. We carried out a capture-recapture study in order to compare the testosterone levels of male morphs during the breeding season. Overall, we captured 463 males, but only the 76 individuals that were captured at least in two sessions were included into the analyses. Colour morphs did not differ in absolute testosterone T plasma levels, but showed a different seasonal pattern. In particular, yellow males (n = 29) had higher testosterone concentration at the beginning of the season (April) with respect to the white and red morphs (n = 35 and n = 12, respectively). This pattern was completely reversed in July, when both red and yellow males had higher hormone concentration. These results have relevant implications on the mechanisms maintaining colour polymorphism in Common wall lizards.
Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. & Mangiacotti, M. & Sannolo, M. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Pupin, F. & Gentilli, A. & Bonnet, X. (2017) -
Sexual steroids influence reproductive behaviours and promote secondary sexual traits. In male lizards, increasing levels of testosterone (T) bolster conspicuous colouration, stimulate territoriality, and trigger antagonistic interactions among rivals. Moreover, in colour polymorphic species, reproductive strategy, aggressiveness and T levels can differ between morphs. Therefore, T level is considered as an important mechanism that regulates the expression of colour polymorphism and sexual behaviours of males. But in the polymorphic territorial wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), a lack of relationship between morphs and aggressiveness challenges the notion that T plays such a role. To examine this issue, we compared adult T levels among three colour morphs (white, yellow and red) through repeated sampling during the mating season. High T levels were observed at the onset of the mating season followed by a significant decrease, a pattern documented in other lizard species. Mean T levels did not differ among morphs. However, yellow males maintained significantly higher T levels over time and displayed a stronger subsequent decline. Overall, in this species, seasonal T patterns differ among morphs, not mean values. Previous studies revealed that T suppresses the immune response; suggesting that a strong initial investment promoted by high T levels may trade-off against immunity (maintenance). Further experimental investigations are required to clarify the relationship between T and reproductive effort in polymorphic species that exhibit complex temporal pattern of T levels.
Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. & Pelitteri-Rose, D. & Bellati, A. & Ghitti, M. & Cocca, W. & Gentilli, A. & Pupin, F. & Rubolini, D. & Paoli, A. di & Mangiotti, M. & Capelli, A. & Maiocchi, V. & Cavigioli, L. & Tettamanti, . & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2013) -
Colour polymorphism in common wall lizards, Podarcis muralis: causes and consequences. Il polimorfismo cromatico è definito come la coesistenza all`interno della stessa popolazione di due o più morfi di colore distinti e geneticamente determinati. La lucertola muraiola (Podarcis muralis) presenta un complesso polimorfismo nella colorazione ventrale, con tre morfi monocromatici (bianco, rosso, giallo) e tre morfi con colorazione intermedia (bianco-rosso, giallo-rosso, bianco giallo). Dal 2004 è in corso uno studio a lungo termine sui meccanismi ecologici, fisiologici, genetici e comportamentali che mantengono il polimorfismo in questa specie. I risultati finora raggiunti permettono di ipotizzare che i morfi di colore della lucertola muraiola siano associati a differenti strategie comportamentali che coesistono all`interno della stessa specie.
Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. & Pellitteri-Rosa, D. & Pupin, F. & Gentili, A. & Tettamenti, S. & Caviglioli, L. & Racina, L. & Maiocchi, V. & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2010) -
Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. & Pupin, F. & Gentilli, A. & Galeotti, P. & Fasola, M. (2007) -
Kehle und Bauch der Mauereidechse Podarcis muralis zeigen drei verschiedene polymorphe Farbvarianten (weiß, gelb und rot). Diese bleiben dauerhaft fixiert und ändern sich im Gegensatz zu anderen Eidechsen-Arten jahreszeitlich nicht. Es werden die Verteilung dieser Varianten in 11 Populationen des nördlichen Italiens untersucht und neben morphometrischen Details beschrieben. Am häufigsten tritt die weiße (56,6 %) dann die gelbe (28,7%) und die rote (14,7 %) Morphe auf. Daneben tritt die rote Farbvariante im häufiger bei Männchen, die weiße bei Weibchen auf. Die Anteile der Varianten in den jeweiligen Populationen variiert kleinräumig erheblich. Dabei ist keine signifikante Beziehung der morphometrischen Abmessungen zu den Farbvarianten bei Männchen festzustelln. Demgegenüber zeigen Weibchen mit größeren Kopfabmessungen einen höheren Anteil von gelben und roten (die größten Weibchen). Mögliche Funktionen der Färbungsvarianten werden diskutiert.
Sacha, M. (2017) -
Sachs, W.B. (1927) -
Sadek, R. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. (2016) -
The two endangered Lebanese lacertid lizards Phoencilacerta kulzeri and Parvilacerta fraasii are sympatric with the skink Trachylepis vittata in regions of high altitude, between 1900 and 2100m. Field studies were conducted on their habitat use, microhabitat preferences and diet. The results show habitat differences between the three species in terms of physical structure and types of vegetation associated with these habitats. P. kulzeri is mostly scansorial in rocky habitats while T. vittata and P. fraasi are mostly ground-dwelling. The habitats of P. kulzeri is more fragmented than that of the other two species. Trachylepis vittata, which is slightly larger than the two lacertids, tends to eat larger prey but the diet of P. kulzeri is the least diverse. The lacertids continue to be active as long as the weather permits, sometimes until late November but T. vittata virtually disappears as of early October.
Sadek, R.A. (1981) -
The gut contents of about 1700 lizards from the Madeiran Archipelago and die Salvage Islands were examined. The diet, which shows habitat and geographical variation, consists of a variety of invertebrates and a good amount of plant matter. The degree of herbivory is correlated widi lizard sex and size and widi tail autotomy. The amount of food and specialization in the diet were also correlated. Comparisons are made between die sex-size classes widiin die populations.
Sadek, R.A. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. & Sabeh, M. (1997) -
Sadek, R.A. & Knio, K. & Baydoun, E. & Hraoui-Bloquet, S. & Zreik, K. (1999) -
Sadek, R.A. & Said, H. (1997) -
Sáez, E. (1994) -
Sáez, E. & Traveset, A. (1995) -
Safaei-Mahroo, B. & Ghaffari, H. (2021) -
Safaei-Mahroo, B. & Ghaffari, H. & Fahimi, H. & Broomand, S. & Yazdanian, M. & Najafi Majd, E. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Rezadeh, E. & Hosseinzadeh, M.S. & Nasrabadi, R. & Rajabizadeh, M. & Mas (2015) -
We present an annotated checklist for a total 241 reptiles and 22 amphibians including 5 frogs, 9 toads, 7 newts and salamanders, 1 crocodile, 1 worm lizard, 148 lizards, 79 snakes and 12 turtles and tortoises, includes the most scientific literature up to August 2014 and also based on several field surveys conducted in different Provinces of Iran from 2009 to 2014. We present an up-to-dated checklist of reptiles and amphibians in Iran. We provide a comprehensive listing of taxonomy, names, distribution and conservation status of all amphibians and reptiles of Iran. This checklist includes all recognized named taxa, English names for classes, orders, families, species, subspecies along with Persian names for species, including indication of native and introduced species. For the first time we report two non-native introduced reptiles from natural habitats of Iran. Of the total 22 species of amphibians in Iran, 6 (27.2%) are endemic and of the total 241 species of reptiles, 55 (22.8%) are endemic. Of the 22 amphibians species in Iran, 3 (13%) are Critically Endangered, 2 (9%) are Vulnerable and of the 241 reptile species 3 (1.2%) are Critically Endangered, 4 (1.6%) are Endangered and 10 (4.1%) are Vulnerable. Accordingly, this paper combines significant aspects of taxonomy, common names, conservation status and distribution of the Iranian herpetofauna.
Safronova, L.D. & Kupriyanova, L.A. (2016) -
Somatic mitotic and meiotic chromosomes at the pachytene and at the metaphase I of the males of the viviparous lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823), from northwestern Russia, belonging to the Russian form of Z. v. vivipara, are examined. The spreading of synaptonemal complexes (SC) of their chromosomes are obtained and analyzed for the first time. Eighteen SC are observed, including SC of the Z1Z1 (pairs 5 or 6) and the Z2Z2 (pair 13) sex chromosomes. Characteristics of SC are compared with the number and the shape of bivalents and with those of the karyotype structure. In the studied Russian form of Z. v. vivipara, the length ratios of bivalents correlate with that of mitotic chromosomes (2n = 36); however, some specificity in the morphology of SC of the Z1Z1 sex chromosomes is reported in this article.
Сафронова Л.Д., Куприянова Л.А. (2016) -
У самцов живородящей ящерицы Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823) (семейство Lacertidae) из Северо-Запада России с кариотипом 2n = 36 исследованы хромосомы на стадиях пахитены и метафазы первого мейотического деления. Впервые получены и изучены тотальные препараты распластанных синаптонемных комплексов (СК). В ядрах сперматоцитов 1-го порядка обнаружены 18 СК, среди них СК половых хромосом Z1 Z1 – 5–6-я пары и Z2Z2 – 13-я пара. Характеристики СК сопоставлены с числом и формой бивалентов и со структурой кариотипа. Соотношение длин бивалентов в СК-кариотипе у изученной нами формы Z. vivipara соответствует пропорции аутосом и половых хромосом в митотическом кариотипе.
Sagarra, I. de (1915) -
Sagarra, L. (1933) -
Sagin, M.K. & Kuyucu, A.C. (2021) -
Sympatric lizard species differing in morphology present convenient models for studying the differentiation in thermal behavior and the role of morphological differences in thermal biology. Here we studied the thermal biology of two sympatric lizard species which occur together sympatrically in western Anatolia, Frig Valley. These two species differ in body size, with the larger Lacerta diplochondrodes and smaller Parvilacerta parva. Field body temperatures of the individuals belonging to both species were recorded in the activity period. Additionally, several environmental parameters including solar radiation, substrate temperature, air temperature and wind speed were also monitored to investigate the relative effect of these abiotic parameters on thermal biology of the two species. The field body temperature and temperature excess (difference between body and substrate temperature) of two species while being relatively close to each other, showed seasonal differences. Solar radiation, substrate temperature and air temperature were the main effective factors on thermal biology in the field. Additionally, although body size did not have a direct significant effect on body temperature or temperature excess, the interaction between body size and wind were effective on temperature excess. In conclusion, our study partially supports the conservation of thermal biology of related lizard species.
Sagonas, K. (2014) -
The structural and functional features that animals develop in order to survive and thrive in their environment have long drawn the attention of the scientific community. Regarding insular ecosystems, the unique physical-natural conditions prevailing on them, the strictly defined by the seas boundaries and the more simplified systems induce the diversification and evolution of island biotas with a number of ways. The main aim of the present research was first, to investigate the effect of natural selection on the ecology, physiology and general biology of ectothermic animals, such as lizards and second, to examine how natural selection can shape morphological, functional and behavioral traits. To this aim, we studied insular and mainland populations of the lizard species Lacerta trilineata (Sauria: Lacertidae). The green lizards of the genus Lacerta comprises nine allopatric species, four of which occur in Greece, while only L. trilineata is distributed in both continental and insular Greek region. The latter feature makes L. trilineata an ideal organism to study the phenotypic plasticity of physiological and morphological traits. How and with what adaptations was its current distribution formed? How did insular and mainland populations have diversified to the different environmental conditions? Are there historical or ecological causes that led to this diversification? These are some of the subjects that this PhD Thesis was dealt with. Through a comparative framework, that contained several L. trilineata populations we tried to address these issues. The resolved phylogeny revealed that the first branch-off of the Greek green lizards occurred during the middle Miocene (13.91 Mya) and led to the separation of the L. viridis/bilineata group from the species L. agilis and L. trilineata. The next major cladogenetic event took place at late Miocene (11.65 Mya) and led to the separation of the latter two species. Regarding the clade of L. trilineata our results support the existence of six distinct lineages. The high intraspecific genetic divergences between these lineages, which are comparable to that recorded among lacertid species, raises questions regarding its taxonomic status and whether or not it is a single species. L. trilineata seems to originate and diverge in western Anatolia. Given the phylogeny of L. trilineata in the Aegean and the geological history of the Greek area, we assume that the ancestral form of this species invaded the Greek area from Anatolia before the complete formation of the MAT (~9 Mya). The forming of this barrier gave the two groups of L. trilineata lineages (west and east of the trench). Within each group, some other vicariant and dispersal events as well as the raise of the Mediterranean Sea at the end of the last glacial period during Holocene have resulted in the present distribution of the six evolutionary lineages of L. trilineata. In order to approach the thermal biology of this species, we studied two mainland and two island populations and determined three different thermal values for each population: lizard`s temperature under normal conditions in the field (body temperature), the temperature that a lizard may achieve in a special designed thermal gradient in the lab (selective temperature) and the potential temperatures that an animal could reach in its biotope (operative temperatures). From the correlation of these three values we tried to describe the strategy of thermoregulation that each population has adopted. The comparison between mainland and island populations revealed that both populations have adapted to their thermal environment, supporting the `labile` view on the evolution of thermal physiology for this species. In particular, insular lizards thermoregulate less effectively because of the more benign, in terms of thermal quality, environment and have lower thermal preferenda. Mainland lizards on the other hand, showed higher effectiveness as a result of the more demanding environment. However, predation regime seems to restrict the ability of the latter to achieve body temperatures close to their set-point range. To investigate the trophic ecology of the Balkan green lizard, we removed the digestive track of preserved specimens as well as collected the fecal material from live lizards, and we correlated the trophic data with morphological and functional traits. Our findings support that L. trilineata is a widely foraging predator, feeding on numerous invertebrate taxa, while Coleoptera and Orthoptera represent the predominant prey group. Ontogeny, sex, season and habitat affect the feeding ecology of this species. The seasonal variation in the diet of L. trilineata corroborate that the species is an opportunistic predator. However, juveniles followed a discrete feeding pattern, which indicates an ontogenetic shift. During their growth, lacertids undergo significant changes in the size, shape and performance of their feeding apparatus. A complementary underlying reason should be sought in the way adults exploit their environment and the areas that usually occupy. Finally, regarding the observed differences in diet composition between sexes as well as island and mainland populations, these probably reflect adaptations through sexual and natural selection. The more robust heads of male lizards allows them to develop a greater bite force and consequently to feed on harder prey items. In addition, the food scarcity prevailing in the Mediterranean islands offers little choice to insular lizards. Thus islanders have to take advantage of every available food resource in order to survive even plant material, which they achieved by increasing the head depth and width as well as bite force, compared to their mainland counterparts. Differences on feeding ecology usually affect several aspects of the digestive system such as physiology and morphology. In the study of the digestive procedure we tried to obtain a qualitative approach of the digestion of the main organic compounds (lipids, sugars and proteins). Islanders deviated from their mainland peers increasing the digestive tract length and the frequency of cecal valves in the hindgut. However, an increase in the digestive tract length and the frequency of cecal valves might cause an increase of gut passage time and, thus, food retention times. In other words, enzymes could have more time to act, which maximize the rate of energy intake and the digestive efficiency. We believe that these changes on the digestive procedure could be interpreted as adaptations for the limited food availability prevailing on islands. Finally, given that the ability of an animal to successfully colonize new habitats is mainly determined by its ability to cope with pathogens of the environment, we studied the immune response in association with the genetic diversity of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I. For the study of cell-mediated response we used two methodological approaches: (a) the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) and (b) the phytohemagglutinin-induced skin swelling test (PHA). Our finding revealed that the genetic boundaries of islands and the food scarcity prevailing on them caused decline in the genetic divergence at the MHC genes and in parasite tolerance. Nonetheless, the significant importance of balancing selection against genetic drift, in shaping MHC polymorphism, has lead to an increase on the nucleotide diversity of the remaining MHC alleles. As a result and besides the reduce parasite tolerance of islanders, the latter demonstrated high cell mediated response, which is comparable to their mainland peers. To sum up, it appears that island populations of L. trilineata have adapted to the different biotic and abiotic environmental conditions of islands, which have lead to the development of unique morphological, physiological and behavioral traits.
ΣΑΓΩΝΑΣ, Κ. (2014) -
Sagonas, K. & Deimezis-Tsikoutas, A. & Reppa, A. & Domenikou, I. & Papafoto, M. & Synevrioti, K. & Polydouri, I. & Voutsela, A. & Bletsa, A. & Karambotsi, N. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2021) -
Tissue regeneration is a fundamental evolutionary adaptation, which is well known in lizards that can regenerate their entire tail. However, numerous parameters of this process remain poorly understood. Lizard tail serves many functions. Thus, tail autotomy comes with many disadvantages and the need for quick regeneration is imperative. To provide the required energy and materials for caudal tissue building, lizards are expected to undergo a number of physiological and biochemical adjustments. Previous research showed that tail regeneration induces changes in the digestive process. Here, we investigated if and how tail regeneration affects the digestive performance in five wall lizard species deriving from mainland and island sites and questioned whether the association of tail regeneration and digestion is affected by species relationships or environmental features, including predation pressure. We expected that lizards from high predation environments would regenerate their tail faster and modify accordingly their digestive efficiency, prioritizing the digestion of proteins; the main building blocks for tissue repair. Second, we anticipated that the general food shortage on islands would inhibit the process. Our findings showed that all species shifted their digestive efficiency, as predicted. Elongation rate was higher in sites with stronger predation regime and this was also applied to the rate with which protein digestion raised. Gut passage time increases during regeneration so as to improve the nutrient absorbance, but among the islanders, the pace was more intense. The deviations between species should be attributed to the different ecological conditions prevailing on islands rather than to their phylogenetic relationships.
Sagonas, K. & Kapsalas, G. & Valakos, E. & Pafilis, R. (2017) -
The ability for effective, accurate and precise thermoregulation is of paramount importance for ectotherms. Sympatric lizards often partition their niche and select different microhabitats. These microhabitats, however, usually differ in their thermal conditions and lizards have to adapt their thermoregulation behavior accordingly. Here, we evaluated the impact of habitat partitioning on the thermal biology of three syntopic, congeneric lacertids (Podarcis peloponnesiacus, P. tauricus and P. muralis) from central Peloponnese, Greece. We assessed thermoregulation effectiveness (E) using the three standard thermal parameters: body (Tb), operative (Te) and preferred (Tpref) temperatures. We hypothesized that the microhabitats used by each species would differ in thermal quality. We also predicted that all species would effectively thermoregulate, as they inhabit a thermally challenging mountain habitat. As expected, the partition of the habitat had an effect on the thermoregulation of lizards since microhabitats had different thermal qualities. All three species were effective and accurate thermoregulators but one of them achieved smaller E values as a result of the lower Tb in the field. This discrepancy could be attributed to the cooler (but more benign) thermal microhabitats that this species occupies.
Sagonas, K. & Mairi, S. & Valakos, E.D. & Pafilis, P. (2013) -
Body size shapes the overall biology of organisms. We assessed the impact of size on temperature regulation in populations of normal-sized and large-bodied insular Mediterranean lizards (Podarcis gaigeae, Lacertidae). We hypothesized that large lizards would achieve higher body temperatures and thermoregulate more effectively than their smaller kin. Large- and small-bodied lizards share the same thermoregulation pattern, achieving similar body temperatures in the field. Large lizards, however, prefer higher set-point temperatures. Lizards in both populations thermoregulate effectively, but large lizards thermoregulated less effectively than normal-sized lizards. The particular conditions at the islet that harbors the large-bodied population (harsh intraspecific competition) seem to account for this pattern.
Sagonas, K. & Pafilis, P. & Lymberakis, P. & Donihue, C.M. & Herrel, A. & Valakos, E.D. (2014) -
Island environments differ with regard to numerous features from the mainland and may induce large-scale changes in most aspects of the biology of an organism. In this study, we explore the effect of insularity on the morphology and performance of the feeding apparatus, a system crucial for the survival of organisms. To this end, we examined the head morphology and feeding ecology of island and mainland populations of the Balkan green lizard, Lacerta trilineata. We predicted that head morphology, performance and diet composition would differ between sexes and habitats as a result of varying sexual and natural selection pressures. We employed geometric morphometrics to test for differences in head morphology, measured bite forces and analysed the diet of 154 adult lizards. Morphological analyses revealed significant differences between sexes and also between mainland and island populations. Relative to females, males had larger heads, a stronger bite and consumed harder prey than females. Moreover, island lizards differed in head shape, but not in head size, and, in the case of males, demonstrated a higher bite force. Islanders had a wider food niche breadth and included more plant material in their diet. Our findings suggest that insularity influences feeding ecology and, through selection on bite force, head morphology
Sagonas, K. & Pafilis, P. & Lymberakis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2013) -
Head morphology and head size in lizards have been traditionally associated with ecological and behavioral features such as feeding, mate success and aggressive performance. The relation between head size and bite performance is adequately direct, and individuals with larger head exert higher maximal bite force. On the other hand, bite force is a valuable indicator of prey choice and feeding strategies of animals. In the present study we examined the head morphology and feeding ecology between island and mainland Greek populations of the Balkan Green Lizard, Lacerta trilineata. We investigated how natural and sexual selection can affect head traits. We applied geometric morphometrics for a total of 154 adult L. trilineata individuals (20 females and 48 males from the islands and 30 females and 56 males from the mainland). For each individual, stomach content was also analysed. Apart from taxonomic classification, preys were also classified based on hardness measurements obtained from previous prey-crushing studies. All the examined animals were deposited to the Herpetological Collection of the Natural History Museum of Crete. Analyses of morphology indicated significant morphological differences both between sexes and between mainland and island populations. Males had, in general, larger heads than females. Moreover, insular and mainland lizards of the same sex differed in head size but not in body size. The analysis of stomach content revealed a significant difference on the diet between sexes and between mainland and island populations. Our findings suggest that the observed differences in head traits may partly reflect the trophic ecology of different L. trilineata populations.
Sagonas, K. & Pafilis, P. & Lymberakis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2015) -
The Balkan green lizard (Lacerta trilineata) is the most widespread lizard in the Balkans, ranging from Croatia to Crete and from Ionian to Black Sea. Surprisingly, its feeding ecology remains largely understudied. In this study we describe the diet of the species using 288 specimens from museum collections that derived from 8 island and 4 mainland populations from Greece. Besides yielding basic information on the trophic preferences of the species, our aim was also to unravel the effect of sex, age, season and habitat on the feeding patterns. The diet of L. trilineata consisted mainly of insects, with Coleoptera (51%) and Orthoptera (11%) being the predominant prey groups. Though we failed to detect any sexual variation, we found that ontogeny, season and habitat seem to affect the feeding ecology of the species. Juveniles had higher niche breadth and fed on softer preys. Lacerta trilineata changes its feeding preferences throughout the year. Island populations adopted a higher niche breadth during summer; mainland lizards – during spring. Islanders showed also a clear proneness to herbivory, most probably due to the food scarcity of the islands. Lacerta trilineata is an opportunistic predator that shifts its diet according to season and habitat.
Sagonas, K. & Pafilis, P. & Lymberakis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2019) -
Studies on life history characters are of pivotal importance to understand population dynamics and demography and, if required, to propose effective conservation measures. The Balkan green lizard (Lacerta trilineata) is the most widespread lizard species in the Balkans but, interestingly, there are no studies on its reproductive biology. Herein, we focused on life history traits of L. trilineata, examining 369 museum specimens deriving from 12 island and 5 mainland populations from Greece. We measured the testicle size and the length of the epididymis in males, and the presence, number and size of oviductal eggs and vitellogenic follicles in females during activity seasons (from March to September). Our results suggest that the annual reproductive cycle in both sexes starts in mid-April and ends in July, though insular lizards seem to slightly prolong their reproductive season. Both sexes reached sexual maturity at a minimum body size of approximately 80 mm. Clutch size varied greatly depending on maternal body size. Clutch size and mean egg volume differed between mainland and island populations: in a striking deviation from the island syndrome, insular females carried more (13) but smaller eggs compared to their mainland conspecifics (nine but larger eggs). Mean egg volume was negatively correlated with clutch size.
Sagonas, K. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2015) -
Living on islands entails numerous challenges for animals, among which resource scarcity stands out. In order to survive, animals have to optimize energy acquisition. We examined the impact of insularity on digestion comparing a series of physiological and morphological traits of adult males between insular and mainland populations of the Balkan green lizard. Island lizards had longer gastrointestinal tracts and gut passage times and higher digestive efficiencies. The dissection of the hindgut revealed an unexpected finding, the presence of cecal valves that were more frequent in island lizards. Thanks to all above islanders retain food for longer periods and thus maximize energy income and increase the amount of the extracted nutrients. That way, they secure energy income from the limited, in time and quantity, food resources of the islands.
Sagonas, K. & Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Parmakelis, A. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2014) -
The green lizards of the genus Lacerta (Sauria, Lacertidae) comprise nine recognized species, which in Europe are mainly restricted to the southern peninsulas. Four of them (L. trilineata, L. viridis, L. bilineata and L. agilis) occur in Greece. The uncertainty of morphological diversification renders the taxonomic assignment into species and subspecies problematic. In this study sequence data derived from two mito- chondrial (cytochrome b and 16S rRNA) genes and one nuclear (NKTR) gene were used to (a) evaluate the taxonomic status of the genus Lacerta in Greece with emphasis on L. trilineata group and (b) investigate the evolutionary history of the genus through the application of phylogenetic and phylogeographic anal- yses, using Gallotia and Timon as outgroups. The phylogenetic analyses revealed the existence of four major clades. The first clade corresponds to L. trilineata group, the second to L. media, the third to L. agilis and the fourth to a complex of L. viridis and L. bilineata. However, the produced phylogenetic relationships are not congruent with the current taxonomy, especially in the first clade in which L. trilineata appeared to be paraphyletic in regard to L. pamphylica. Six distinct lineages were inferred within L. trilineata, despite the current recognition of nine morphological subspecies, the genetic differentiation of which exceeds that of other Lacerta species, imposing a thorough taxonomic revision of the species. Our results suggested a rapid diversification of L. trilineata group during the late Miocene. We believe that the pres- ent distribution of the genus in Greece is the result of several dispersal and vicariant events that took place during the late Miocene and early Pliocene.
Sagonas, K. & Rota, I.A. & Tsitsilonis, O.E. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2016) -
The ability of vertebrates to evolve different defence strategies in response to varying parasitism regimes remains poorly understood. Hosts may adopt two different strategies to defend themselves against parasites: tolerance (hosts alleviate the negative fitness consequences of parasite infection) and resistance (hosts strengthen their immune response as parasite burden increases). Both strategies are effective, but fitness has been reported to decline faster in less-tolerant individuals. Here, we assessed the number of splenocytes and the cell-mediated response (proxies for resistance) and body condition (a proxy for tolerance) in four populations of a Greek endemic lizard (Podarcis gaigeae), each exposed to different infection risks (defined as the cumulative effect of parasite burden and duration of exposure). We anticipated that populations with heavy parasite burden would enhance the efficacy of their immune response (resistance) compared to lizards deriving from parasite-poor habitats. We also predicted that populations with longer exposure to parasites would be adopted and be more tolerant. Each factor (duration of exposure and parasite burden) had a distinct effect on the immune response, and thus, our results were rather complicated. Lizards with heavy parasite burden and aperiodic exposure demonstrated resistance, whereas lizards with heavy parasite burden and chronic exposure were more tolerant. Populations with low parasite burden and minimal exposure were more resistant. Our results suggest that the development of some immunological strategies may be differentiated under different infection risks, even within the same species.
Sagonas, K. & Runemark, A. & Antoniou, A. & Lymbwerakis, P. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. & Poulakakis, N. & Hansson, B. (2018) -
The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) has long served as a model for the evolution of adaptive genetic diversity in wild populations. Pathogen-mediated selection is thought to be a main driver of MHC diversity, but it remains elusive to what degree selection shapes MHC diversity in complex biogeographical scenarios where other evolutionary processes (e.g. genetic drift and introgression) may also be acting. Here we focus on two closely related green lizard species, Lacerta trilineata and L. viridis, to address the evolutionary forces acting on MHC diversity in populations with different biogeographic structure. We characterized MHC class I exon 2 and exon 3, and neutral diversity (microsatellites), to study the relative importance of selection, drift, and introgression in shaping MHC diversity. As expected, positive selection was a significant force shaping the high diversity of MHC genes in both species. Moreover, introgression significantly increased MHC diversity in mainland populations, with a primary direction of gene flow from L. viridis to L. trilineata. Finally, we found significantly fewer MHC alleles in island populations, but maintained MHC sequence and functional diversity, suggesting that positive selection counteracted the effect of drift. Overall, our data support that different evolutionary processes govern MHC diversity in different biogeographical scenarios: positive selection occurs broadly while introgression acts in sympatry and drift when the population sizes decrease.
Sagonas, K. & Valakos, E.D. & Lymberakis, P. & Pafilis, P. (2018) -
Die Autoren machen Angaben zur Nahrungsökologie und Reproduktion der Östlichen Smaragdeidecse, Lacerta viridis (LAURENTI 1768) des griechischen Festlandes, dem Südrand ihres Verbreitungsareals. Insgesamt wurden 86 Exemplare aus der herpetologischen Sammlung des Naturkundemuseums von Kreta untersucht. Die aufgenommene Nahrung wurde zu der Jahreszeit ihrer Aufnahme sowie dem Geschlecht und Alter der Smaragdeidechsen in Bezug gesetzt. Die Östliche Smaragdeidechse erwies sich als ein Nahrungsgeneralist, bei dem Coleoptera (Käfer) und Orthoptera (Springschrecken) mehr als 50 % des Mageninhalts ausmachten. Während sich die Jahreszeit nicht auf die Art der ausgenommenen Nahrung auswirkte, bestanden diesbezüglich Unterschiede zwischen den Geschlechtern und Altersklassen. Im Laufe der Ontogenese veränderte sich die Nahrungspräferenz in Richtung zu größerer und härterer Beute hin. Zudem waren Männchen vielseitiger in der Wahl der Beute und bevorzugten deutlich härtere Beute als Weibchen. Geschlechtsreife erlangten beide Geschlechter nicht unter einer Kopf-Rumpf-Länge von 70 mm. Die Fortpflanzungsaktivität beider Geschlechter erstreckte sich vom Frühling bis zu Mitte des Sommers. Die Gelegegröße variierte starke und korrelierte negative mit dem mittleren Eivolumen des Geleges.
Sagonas, K. & Valakos, E.D. & Pafilis, P. (2013) -
The overall biology of ectotherms is strongly affected by the thermal quality of the environment. The particular conditions prevailing on islands have a strong effect on numerous features of animal life. In this study we compared mainland and island populations of the lizard Lacerta trilineata and hypothesized that insularity would affect the thermoregulatory strategy. Continental habitats were of lower thermal quality, experiencing more intense fluctuations and had higher values of operative temperatures. Nevertheless mainland lizards selected for higher body temperatures in the lab and showed more effective thermoregulation during summer than their island peers. Lizards achieved similar body temperatures in the field in both types of habitat, underlining the importance of predation as a potential factor to mainland lizards that failed to reach their higher thermal preferences. Both island and mainland populations of L. trilineata have been adapted to their thermal environment, supporting the labile view on the evolution of thermal physiology for this species.
Sagons, K. & Karambotsi, N. & Bletsa, A. & Reppa, A. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2017) -
In caudal autotomy, lizards shed their tail to escape from an attacking predator. Since the tail serves multiple functions, caudal regeneration is of pivotal importance. However, it is a demanding procedure that requires substantial energy and nutrients. Therefore, lizards have to increase energy income to fuel the extraordinary requirements of the regenerating tail. We presumed that autotomized lizards would adjust their digestion to acquire this additional energy. To clarify the effects of tail regeneration on digestion, we compared the digestive performance before autotomy, during regeneration, and after its completion. Tail regeneration indeed increased gut passage time but did not affect digestive performance in a uniform pattern: though protein income was maximized, lipid and sugar acquisition remained stable. This divergence in proteins may be attributed to their particular role in tail reconstruction, as they are the main building blocks for tissue formation.
Sahin, M.K. (2019) -
In this study, morphological and phylogenetic relationships between the populations of the dwarf lizard (Parvilacerta parva), whose distribution area is large Anatolian Peninsula, were investigated. In addition, how the climatic factors affect the distribution of the species today and in the past (at the last glacial maximum) has been demonstrated, and species distribution model maps of have been drawn and possible refigiums have been determined. The modeling results showed that especially climatic factors are effective in colonizing Anatolian populations of dwarf lizard. Lizards, which were in refugias among Western Anatolia and Van region in the past, are currently spreading to steppe habitats of Anatolia. Statistical analysis on morphological characters have shown that there is a macro-regional colonization as a result of past climate-based mobility rather than today`s geography and landscapes in accordance with the distribution dynamics of the species. In this context, gradual changes and significant correlations were detected between the Eastern, Central and Western Anatolian macro-regions. Phylogenetic analyzes were performed on mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (862 bp). The sequences of this gene were tested with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference. Although the bootstrap values of some branches cannot have very high scores due to it is just a within species study, it is observed that the Eastern Anatolian populations are in a separate clad compare to Central and Western Anatolian populations and the Western populations are labelled as the youngest populations by using Bayesian inference analysis. Divergence time analyzes have also shown that the seperations in the colonization of the species are climate-based rather than geographical barriers. Because of the optimal mild climatic conditions, the species is dispersed from the refugiums. As a result, every significant branching in the phylogenetic tree was found to coincide with the interglacial periods, especially in the Pleistocene age. It was also calculated that the species might be separated from the Fraas lizard (Parvilacerta fraasi), another member of the genus Parvilacerta, in the period when the effects of Messinian salinity crisis were observed.
Sahin, M.K. (2021) -
Ectothermic organisms, like terrestrial reptiles have very strong physiological tendency to maintain a stable internal environment with buffering the effects of outer conditions. However, they mostly tend to regulate their homeostasis in winter season via hibernation strategy. The members of family Lacertidae are hibernating reptiles, which have relatively rare winter activities. Although winter basking activity might serve a variety of biotic regulations in different species, the Anatolian lizards, Apathya cappadocica has not been documented for its winter activity so far. In this study, it is presented that the mating behavior of A. cappadocica in warming period in February 2019 from Siirt, Turkey. Any mating observation in this period has not been reported in literature in the Anatolian Peninsula up to date. The climatic oscillation with consequent extraordinarily warm days in winter might cause fluctuations in species phenology traits. However, this situation might also possess several risks in many aspects (i.e. early embryonic development, foraging, escaping from the predators) for the offsprings.
Sahin, M.K. (2024) -
The Clarks’ Lizard, Darevskia clarkorum is endemic to the Caucasian biodiversity hotspot, remarkable in terms of biogeography and evolutionary history in the Palearctic Realm. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the current distribution pattern of this species as well as its possible changes under various future climate scenarios. Fieldwork was conducted in Northeastern Anatolia and the Caucasus between 2019 and 2022, and 64 occurrence records and five bioclimatic variables were analysed using Ecological Niche Modeling (ENM) software. The annual temperature range is the most important variable influencing the distribution of this lizard species. The results showed that potential habitats for the Clarks’ Lizard are wider than its present distribution. It is predicted that under current climate change scenarios, this species’ range will be much more restricted than it is now. With rising greenhouse gas levels and solar radiation rates, the range of this species is expected to shift from northern Anatolia to the Caucasus mountainous areas, and would likely shrink in future. The remaining habitats of this lizard species may be significantly impacted by climate change and humaninduced habitat modification.
Sahin, M.K. & Afsar, M. (2018) -
The present study investigated the reptilian fauna in Amasya Province, Turkey. Reptile species were identified from collections made during field studies or recorded in literature, with some new locality records obtained. Field studies were undertaken over two consecutive years (2016 and 2017). Two lacertid species, one skink species, two colubrid species and one viper species were officially recorded for the first time or their information was updated. In addition to species locality records, chorotypical and habitat selection were also assessed and the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species criteria included. Data on the distribution and locality information for each taxon is also provided. Our findings demonstrate that Amasya might be an ecotone zone between the Mediterranean, Caucasian, and European ecosystems. Although there are some concerns for the sustainable dynamics of reptilian fauna, relatively rich and different European nature information system habitat types provide basic survival conditions for reptilian fauna in the province.
Sahin, M.K. & Candan, K. & Karakasi, D. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Kumlutas, Y. & Yildirim, E. & Ilgaz, C. (2022) -
The genus Anatololacerta is distributed in the eastern Mediterranean region including Asia Minor and some east Aegean islands. Recent phylogenetic studies suggested that this genus displayed cryptic diversity and was divided into five species: A. anatolica, A. pelasgiana, A. ibrahimi, A. finikensis and A. danfordi. The ecological niche differentiations of these species have not been studied so far. Our aims for this study were to predict the potential suitable habitats for the species nested in genus Anatololacerta, and to examine the niche overlaps and differentiations via identity and background tests. The occurrence data were obtained from literature and our own field surveys. Occurrence records were rarefied and assessed in a 30 arc-second resolution layer, compatible with several bioclimatic and topographic variables. Species distribution analyses were performed using maximum entropy approach and pairwise niche comparisons were evaluated by identity and background tests. Our results demonstrated that the species delimitation among this genus was not only affected by geographic isolation but also that precipitation and temperature influenced the habitat suitability for these species. Predicted suitability usually well matched the actual species distributions. Moreover, the niche overlap (identity test) analyses verified that allopatric Anatololacerta species show clear ecological differentiations. However, a niche overlap between parapatric species A. pelasgiana and A. finikensis, was confirmed by identity and background tests. It has been suggested that these parapatric species could be more affected by microclimatological parameters than the others. The results of our study are in agreement with the latest phylogenetic study within this genus.
Sahin, M.K. & Kumlutas, Y. & Ilgaz, C. (2020) -
Detailed investigations carried out on Darevskia rudis (Bedriaga, 1886) populations from Northeastern Anatolia, Turkey to identify sexual dimorphism. 11 morphometric and 30 meristic features of 317 specimens were analyzed. Seven meristic (Ventral width, Dorsals attached ventrals at mid-trunk, Femoral pores, Subdigital lamellae left, Tibial scales, Dorsalia). and four metric (Pileus length, Pileus width, Head length, Head width) characters were significant in sexual dimorphism pattern (p<0.05). Males have relatively longer head sizes, and related to this snout-vent length than females. Furthermore, it was found that the number of femoral pores are also higher in males than females because signaling compounds might be released in breeding seasons.
Sahin, M.K. & Kumlutas, Y. & Yanchukov, A. & Cetintas, O. & Candan, K. & Ilgaz, C. & Ayas, Z. (2022) -
The dwarf lizard, Parvilacerta parva, is a characteristic member of the steppe biome in Irano - Anatolian biological hotspot. While this lizard has been included in local faunistic surveys and its morphological variation was addressed, no targeted study has been performed on the ecology and distribution of the species. Here we investigate the range dynamics of dwarf lizard during recent glacial and interglacial periods. We looked at the effects of climatic oscillations on species distribution at Present, Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), and Last Interglacial (LIG) periods using ecological niche modelling (ENM), based on our own fieldwork and literature data. The model results suggest that the range of dwarf lizards contracted during the LIG and expanded during the LGM, opposite to the pattern observed in many other temperate reptiles. During the LIG, distribution of the dwarf lizards had been restricted to the mountainous steppe habitats in Northeastern Anatolia, but during the LGM it expanded to the west by including the new steppe habitats in Sultan, Emir and Murat mountains and adjacent areas. Climatic factors had a strong influence on shaping the spatiotemporal habitat. The Anatolian Biogeographic Region overlaps with Irano - Anatolian biodiversity hotspot, reflecting remarkable species richness in this area. However, faunal elements of the hotspots are under threat due to not only global climate change, but also anthropogenic pressures, such as habitat loss and overgrazing. Our results suggest that the dwarf lizards have a potential as indicators for tracking the local effects of global climate change as well as human induced degradation of the steppe habitat.
Sahlberg, J. (1876) -
Saidi, A. & Oubrou, W. (2022) -
In addition to direct classical methods for assessing diet in wildlife, non-invasive techniques are a suitable alternative, especially in the case of endangered species. As in forensic investigations, a faecal parasitological examination could be a useful approach for a diet assessment in threatened wild birds, such as the Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita). Seven faecal samples were collected from birds from the remaining wild population of Bald Ibis in the Souss Massa region (southwest Morocco). The samples were microscopically analysed, and two of them showed the presence of Pharyngodon spp. eggs, which is a ubiquitous intestinal parasite of saurian reptiles. By compiling our findings and the local bibliographic data, we were able to confirm that small endemic Moroccan lizards, especially of the Acanthodactylus pardalis group, are among the elements that compose the diet of the Northern Bald Ibis.
Sainsbury, T. (2012) -
Saint Girons, H. & Bradshaw, S.D. (1989) -
Saint Girons, H. & Castanet, J. & Bradshaw, D.S. & Baron, J.-P. (1989) -
Etude de la structure des populations de L.v. ainsi que la croissance staturo-pondérale dans deux stations soumises à des climats différents: une au centre Nord de la Loire Atlantique, l`autre en Vendée
Saint Girons, H. & Duguy, R. (1970) -
Saint Girons, M.-C. (1977) -
The activity cycle, social dominance and their interela- tionships in captive populations of Lacerta viridis kept in open- air enclosures have been studied for four consecutive years in South Brittany. Green lizards are very sedentary, seldom moving very far from their shelters. However adult males and dominant females move more frequently than submissive females. Throughout their yearly period of activity, green lizards of all sexes, ages and ranks spent much time basking in the sun to increase their internal temperature, especially during prolonged periods of cool weather. In such conditions submissive females tend to « sun bath » for a shorter time than dominant ones ; they also climb bushes more often. Yearly egg production is also greater in dominant females.
Saint-Girons, H. & Joly, J. (1974) -
Saito, S. & Oikawa, T. & Taniguchi, K. (2010) -
The squamates are composed of many taxa, among which there is morphological variation in the vomeronasal organ (VNO). To elucidate the evolution of chemoreception in squamate reptiles, morphological data from the VNO from a variety of squamate species is required. In this study, the morphology of the VNO of the grass lizard Takydromus tachydromoides was examined using light and electron microscopy. The VNO consists of a pair of dome-shaped structures, which communicate with the oral cavity. There are no associated glandular structures. Microvilli are present on the apical surfaces of receptor cells in its sensory epithelium, as well as on supporting cells, and there are centrioles and ciliary precursor bodies on the dendrites. In addition to ciliated cells and basal cells in the non-sensory epithelium, there is a novel type of non-ciliated cell in T. tachydromoides. They have constricted apical cytoplasm and microvilli instead of cilia, and are sparsely distributed in the epithelium. Based on these results, the variation in the morphology of the VNO in scincomorpha, a representative squamate taxon, is discussed.
Sakowski, I. (2017) -
Sakran, T. & Fayed, H. & El-Toukhy, A. & Abdel-Gawad, A. (1994) -
Sakran, T.H. & Ahmed, R. (2000) -
Šalamon, D. & Sterijovki, B. & Šilić, T. (2005) -
Salas, A.C. (2016) -
Salazar, F.G. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. (2007) -
Homing behavior in the spiny-footed lizard (Acanthodactylus erythrurus). –The term homing, as it is usually understood, indicates the ability of several animal species to return to their home range after a natural or artificial displacement from it. In this paper we use mark-displacement-relocation techniques to study homing behavior in a population of spiny-footed lizards (Acanthodactylus erythrurus) living in a coastal sandy area at La Albufera Natural Park (Valencia, Spain). To this end, 20 lizards of both sexes were displaced 100 m from the geometric center of their respective home ranges. Five of them were relocated inside their home ranges between 3 and 13 days after displacement. Displaced animals did not show a preferred orientation after release, which suggests that initial orientation is not a good predictor of homing success in this species. This is the first time that a homing capacity has been documented for A. erythrurus. Results also suggest that homing in this species is based on true navigation.
Saleh, M.A. (1997) -
Salgado, I. & Hernández, M.A. (2013) -
Salman, N.A. (2019) -
The present review discussed the species diversity of herpetofauna in southern Iraq due to their scientific and national interests. The review includes a historical record for the herpetofaunal studies in Iraq since the earlier investigations of the 1920s and 1950s along with the more recent taxonomic trials in the following years. It appeared that, little is known about Iraqi herpetofauna, and no comprehensive checklist has been done for these species. So far, 96 species of reptiles and amphibians have been recorded from Iraq, but only a relatively small proportion of them occur in the southern marshes. The marshes act as key habitat for globally endangered species and as a potential for as yet unexplored amphibian and reptile diversity. Despite the lack of precise localities, the tree frog Hyla savignyi, the marsh frog Pelophylax ridibunda and the green toad Bufo viridis are found in the marshes. Common reptiles in the marshes include the Caspian terrapin (Clemmys caspia), the soft-shell turtle (Trionyx euphraticus), the Euphrates softshell turtle (Rafetus euphraticus), geckos of the genus Hemidactylus, two species of skinks (Trachylepis aurata and Mabuya vittata) and a variety of snakes of the genus Coluber, the spotted sand boa (Eryx jaculus), tessellated water snake (Natrix tessellata) and Gray`s desert racer (Coluber ventromaculatus). More recently, a new record for the keeled gecko, Cyrtopodion scabrum and the saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus sochureki) was reported. The IUCN Red List includes six terrestrial and six aquatic amphibian species. It includes also 23 terrestrial and one aquatic reptile species. The list of herpetofauna of southern Iraq of the present review consists of six amphibian species belonging to one order (Anura) which includes three families as well as 32 reptilian species belonging to two orders (Squmata and Testudines) which include 15 families.
Salvador, A. (1971) -
Salvador, A. (1974) -
Salvador, A. (1976) -
Salvador, A. (1978) -
Salvador, A. (1979) -
Salvador, A. (1980) -
Salvador, A. (1981) -
Diagnose, Beschreibung (Maße, Äußere Merkmale, Schädel, Postcranialskelett, Karyotyp), Verbreitung, Merkmalsvariation (Geschlechtsdimorphismus, Altersbedingte Variationen, Jahreszeitlicher Wandel, Ökologisch bedingter Wandel, Unterartgliederung), Ökologie (Biotop, Nahrung, Fortpflanzung, Populationsdynamik), Jugendentwicklung, Verhalten (Aktivität, Fortpflanzungsverhalten, Kommunikation), Literatur.
Salvador, A. (1982) -
Die vorliegende Revision betrifft die Gattung Acanthodactylus (Damilie Lacertidae), die die Trocken- und Wüstengebiete des nördlichen Afrika und des südwestlichen Asiens bewohnt, mit Randpopulationen auf der Iberischen Halbinsel und auf Zypern. Mehr als 6000 Exemplare der Gattung, aus den bedeutendsten europäischen und amerikanischen Sammlungen, wurden untersucht. Zusätzlich wurden über 450 Röntgenaufnahmen für osteologische Untersuchungen ausgewertet. Die historische Übersicht behandelt in chronologischer Reihenfolge alle Arbeiten, die sich mit der Gattung Acanthodactylus beschäftigen, mit besonderer Berücksichtigung taxonomischer Studien. Ein beigegebener Bestimmungsschlüssel ermöglicht die Determination aller Arten der Gattung. Eine Reihe äußerer (Größe und Proportionen, Pholidose, Färbung und Zeichnung) und innerer (d.h. osteologischer) Merkmale wurde im Hinblick auf ihre Variabilität untersucht. Dann wurde ein Land ausgesucht, z.B. Ägypten, aus dem eine gute Materialbasis zur Verfügung stand. Für einen bestimmten Fundort in diesem Lande wurden sodann einige Kombinationen von Merkmalszuständen ermittelt, die sich aus dem Auftreten verschiedener Arten ergaben. Derselbe Vorgang wurde sodann auf den Rest Ägyptens übertragen, und die Merkmalskombinationen stellten sich als übereinstimmend heraus; sie erlaubten dadurch eine sichere Zuordnung von Tieren zu folgen Arten: A. boskianus, A. scutellatus und A. pardalis. Durch die Ausdehnung der Untersuchung nach Westen und Osten kamen weitere Taxa hinzu. Besonderer Aufmerksamkeit wurde diesen Merkmalskombinationen im Hinblick auf sympatrisches oder allopatrisches Auftreten der betroffenen Arten gezollt, mit dem Ergebnis, daß es in einigen Fällen möglich war, abzusichern, daß es sich um Populationen derselben Art handelt. Die Gattung Acanthodactylus wurde in mehrere Artengruppen gegliedert, die sich durch engere Beziehungen ihrer Arten untereinander auszeichnen. Die erste ist die micropholis-Gruppe mit der einzigen Art A. micropholis. Sie wird als die ursprünglichste der gesamten Gattung angesehen. Eine weitere Gruppe ist die boskianus-Gruppe, mit den Arten A. boskianus und A. schreiberi. Erstere wird ausführlich analysiert im Hinblick auf ihre außerordentlich große geographische Variabilität. Die yemenicus-Gruppe besiedelt die Arabische Halbinsel und besteht aus A. yemenicus sp.n., A. masirae, A. opheodurus und A. felicis. Eine weitere Gruppe ist die tristrami-Gruppe mit den Arten A. tristrami und A. robustus. Für erstere wird die Validität der Unterart orientalis verneint, die für iracensis dagegen bejaht. In die grandis-Gruppe wird hier nur A. grandis gestellt, während A. fraseri als dessen Synonym aufgefaßt wird. Die erythrurus-Gruppe enthält A. erythrurus, A. savignyi, A. blanci, A. boueti und A. guineensis. Letzterer rangierte bislang in der Gattung Eremias, gehört aber nach den hier vorgelegten Befunden in die erythrurus-Gruppe von Acanthodactylus. In der pardalis-Gruppe sind enthalten: A. pardalis, A. bedriagai, A. maculatus, A. spinicauda und A. busacki sp.n. aus Marokko. Die scutellatus-Gruppe besteht aus A. scutellatus, A. aureus, A. dumerili und A. longipes. Die letzte Gruppe ist die cantoris-Gruppe mit den Arten A. cantoris, A. arabicus, A. schmidti, A. blanfordi, A. gongrorhynchatus und A. haasi. Eine Bibliographie über die Gattung beschließt die Arbeit. Für jede Art werden Diagnosen, Verbreitungskarten, Synonymien, Beschreibungen und Materiallisten der untersuchten Tiere sowie auch Strichzeichnungen gegeben.
Salvador, A. (1984) -
Salvador, A. (1985) -
Salvador, A. (1986) -
Salvador, A. (1987) -
Patterns of activity were studied in two populations of Lacerta schreiberi at Camposagrado (León) from April to September 1984. Population estimates were used to compute the proportion of males, females, subadults and youngs observed during censuses. Males were more active during spring (reproductive season) than in summer. Female activity did not vary between seasons. High activity levels were observed in subadults and activity was very low in youngs during all months.
Salvador, A. (1988) -
Microhabitat use of Lacerta schreiberi was studied at one locality in the Cantabrian mountains of León province, Spain. Lizards do not use the microhabitat categories in proportion to their availability. Ontogenetic shifts in microhabitat selection have been observed. Juveniles are found in grass and rush areas, while adults prefer bushes. Subadults were present in both microhabitat types. Lizards perch on plants, mainly bushes, between 10 and 80 cm height. Microhabitat selection changes seasonally only in subadults.
Study of home range size in juvenile and subadult Lacerta schreiberi in northern Spain.
Salvador, A. (1993) -
Salvador, A. (2006) -
Salvador, A. (2007) -
Salvador, A. (2009) -
Salvador, A. (2010) -
Salvador, A. (2011) -
Salvador, A. (2015) -
Salvador, A. & Argüello, J.A. (1987) -
Salvador, A. & Busack, S.D. (2009) -
Salvador, A. & Diaz, J.A. & Veiga, J.P. & Bloor, P. & Brown, R.P. (2008) -
We followed a field population of the alpine lizard Iberolacerta cyreni over 2 consecutive breeding seasons and assigned paternity to the offpring using 8 microsatellite markers. Paternity data, combined with observations of the behavior, morphology, and spacing patterns of lizards, allowed us to document the extent of polygamy, the phenotypic correlates of the number of offspring sired, and the correlation between male reproductive success (RS) and probability of recapture the second year of our study. Multiple paternity was observed in nearly 50% of clutches, and the mating system was highly polygynandrous. In the first year of our study, male RS increased with body size, activity, tail length, and color saturation of the dorsum. In the second year, male RS increased with activity and body condition. Overall, increased male activity, a trait that is expected to decrease survivorship, was the explanatory variable that had the greatest effect on RS. However, the residents of our first study year that were recaptured in the second year had longer tails, were more active, and sired more offspring than their conspecifics that were not recaptured. Thus, contrary to expectations, no negative correlation between present reproduction and future survival was found, which suggests that male investment in reproduction is condition dependent and positively correlated with the ability to pay the underlying costs of increased activity.
Salvador, A. & Garcia-Paris, M. (2015) -
Salvador, A. & López, P. & Martin, J. (2014) -
Salvador, A. & Martin, J. & Lopez, P. (1995) -
Numerous lizard species use caudal autotomy as an antipredator device even though there must be significant costs during the period of tail regeneration. Strategies used by tailless individuals to enhance survival in natural populations are still poorly understood. We experimentally examine tail loss in large, dominant males of Psammodromus algirus in the middle of the breeding season in the field. We report data showing home range reduction of large dominant males after autotomy, reduction in the number of females in the home ranges of manipulated males, and a potential increase in mating opportunities of small subordinate males with complete tails. We conclude that changes in home range use because of desertion of areas with less cover can result in decreased predation risk at the cost of decreased access to females.
Salvador, A. & Martin, J. & Lopez, P. & Veiga, J.P. (1996) -
Salvador et al. (In press) showed in a field experiment that males of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus decreased the size of their home range an average of 64% after tail loss and had access to fewer females. In that experiment, only the short-term effects of tail loss were examined because tail manipulation and home-range reduction occurred during the same reproductive season (April-May). Here, we present data that show long-term effects of tail loss on home-range size and potential access to females in P. algirus males. We conducted fieldwork during spring 1994 in a deciduous oak-forest (Quercus pyrenaica) near Navacerrada (40 degree 44`N, 4 degree 00`W), central Spain, where we established a 1.5-ha plot with markers every 10 m.
Salvador, A. & Palacios, F. (1981) -
Salvador, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (1984) -
Salvador, A. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2002) -
Salvador, A. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Reques, R. (2021) -
Salvador, A. & Veiga, J.P. (2000) -
Elevation of circulating testosterone levels during the breeding season stimulates the development of breeding coloration and favors traits that maximize reproductive success, but it may have several costs. Retardation of growth by testosterone has been proposed as one of these costs to males of long-lived species. We examine the results of a field experiment on the short-term (within the breeding season) and long-term (1 year) effects of heightening levels of testosterone on the growth of males of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus. Testosterone did not affect the mass gain of males during the reproductive period or between years. The between-years increase in snout-vent length in testosterone-supplemented males tended to be less than in control individuals. Within-season individual mass gain was mainly determined by body mass at emergence: the lower the body mass the higher the mass gain. Our results do not support the idea that the production of ornamental traits limits growth, as the negative correlation between degree of head coloration and mass gain disappeared when body mass was controlled for.
Salvador, A. & Veiga, J.P. (2001) -
Previous studies of lizard mating systems have provided morphological and ecological hypotheses that may explain variation in male reproductive success. We present the results of a field study of factors associated with pairing success in males and females of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus. Operational sex ratio was male biased and varied during the mating season. Early in the season, large females frequently paired sequentially with two males. However, late in the season, small females tended to pair with only one male. This suggests that male-male competition was stronger for larger females at the beginning of the mating season or there were fewer fertile females available. Pairs were observed together for 1-4 days, suggesting pre- or postcopulatory mate guarding behavior. Male pairing success was primarily influenced by morphological traits; males with larger heads, larger snout-vent lengths, and more ornamentation paired with more females. Male home range size and number of females overlaped did not affect male pairing success. More active males, which may have selectively moved within home ranges of paired females, had higher pairing success than less active males. The temporal distribution of receptive females seemed to favor polygyny. However, only the largest males were successful in competition for females throughout the mating season.
Salvador, A. & Veiga, J.P. (2005) -
Salvador, A. & Veiga, J.P. (2008) -
Many species of lizards have colour spots on the flanks that may function as ornaments. We investigate the between-years stability of the blue patch colour saturation and the relationships between colour saturation, mating success, and survival in males of the lizard Psammodromus algirus. Saturation values of the anterior blue patch of males were significantly repeatable across years. Survivors had more saturated patches than non-survivors among paired males but not among non-paired males. The positive relationship between blue patch saturation and survival suggests that this morphological trait acts as a reliable signal of male quality measured as adult survival.
Salvador, A. & Veiga, J.P. & Civantos, E. (1999) -
Many species of lizards have skin invaginations that contain ectoparasites. These structures could concentrate ectoparasites and reduce their harmful effects, but experimental evidence supporting this hypothesis is largely lacking. Mie report here the first experimental test of this hypothesis which we conducted with the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus, a species that has a nuchal pocket on each side of die neck and is a regular intermediate host of the tick Ixodes ricinus. We manipulated circulating testosterone levels of males to increase tick infestation and blocked pockets to prevent tick attachment. When ticks had free access to pockets, ticks were attached mainly in pockets when tick load was low, but they were present in similar proportions in ears, pockets, and axillae in heavily parasited males. When tick pockets were blocked, infestation rates were comparable to those of unblocked lizards, but ticks were concentrated on the ears and in the axillae. The experimental group, with blocked pockets, was seen over a shorter period and in a smaller patch of habitat. This suggests that survival and horne range were reduced. These data indicate that concentration of ticks in pockets may be beneficial for P. algirus and support the functional value of these structures.
Salvador, A. & Veiga, J.P. & Esteban, M. (2004) -
The home ranges of radio-collared eyed lizards (Lacerta lepida) were studied in the mountains of central Spain. The home range of females and males varied from 2800-5844 m2 and 1424-22106 m2 respectively. Two measures of core area and home range covaried significantly with mass. Home range and 75% core area were significantly larger in males than in females, while 50% core area did not differ between sexes. Age has no significant effect on home-range size. Each male`s home range overlapped with the home ranges of 2-6 males and 2-6 females. Males used 11-17 different rocks 0.5-5 m diameter as shelters during 17-25 nights. The extensive home range areas of large males may be related to maximizing access to the few reproductive females available, but costs may be high, as indicated by the mortality data.
Salvador, A. & Veiga, J.P. & Martín, J. & López, P. (1997) -
According to the immunocompetence hypothesis, testosterone stimulates the expression of male sexually selected traits while decreasing immunocompetence. This proposed trade-off was studied by experimental supplementation of testosterone to small, subordinate, dull-colored male lizards, Psammodromus algirus. Experimental males showed a tendency to overlap their home range with fewer small males than did control males and tended to be more aggressive. However, control males were observed more frequently attending females than experimental males. The area of patches of breeding coloration, the number of ticks, and the frequency of recoveries of testosterone-supplemented and control males did not differ significantly. The results suggest that small adult males with high levels of testosterone behave more aggressively, which may be advantageous to securing a breeding territory in the next season. However, the hormone did not apparently affect ornamentation or parasite load. We argue that, whatever the mechanisms involved, blocking effects of testosterone may be adaptive because being cryptic facilitates a sneaking strategy, and low ectoparasite load may improve survival.
Salvador, A. & Veiga, J.P. & Martin, J. & López, P. & Abelanda, M. & Puerta, M. (1996) -
According to current evolutionary theory, advertising traits that honestly indicate an organism`s genetic quality might be costly to produce or maintain, though the kind of costs involved in this process are controversial. Recently the immunocompetence hypothesis has proposed that testosterone (T) stimulates the expression of male sexually selected traits while decreasing immunocompetence. Even though some recent studies have shown an effect of T on ectoparasite load, the dual effect of the hormone has not been addressed in free-living populations. Here we report results of an experiment in a free-living population of the lizard Psammodromus algirus during the mating season. Males implanted with T had larger patches of breeding color and behaved more aggressively than control males. In T-implanted males, the increase in number of ticks during the mating season was significantly higher than in control males and this negatively affected several hematological parameters. T-males suffered significantly higher mortality than control males during the experiment The results from the manipulation of T are consistent with the dual effect of this hormone.
Salvador, L. (1897) -
Salvador. A. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Reques, R. (2021) -
Salvi, D. (2023) -
Simple Summary: Information about the status and trends of endangered species populations are vital for conservation actions, yet these data are often limited for those inhabiting remote and difficult-to-access areas. With the technical support of an alpine guide, I climbed on La Canna sea stack, a columnar volcanic pinnacle 70 m high, to gather information on the size, morphology, and genetic variability of the tiniest population of the critically endangered Aeolian wall lizard Podarcis raffonei. Results indicate a current population size of about a hundred individuals, a body size of lizards significantly larger than previously known, and a complete lack of genetic diversity. Cephalic malformations observed on all captured individuals indicate the detrimental effect of inbreeding depression and represent a severe threat to the persistence of this population. - Abstract: Among the extant populations of the critically endangered Aeolian wall lizard, the most vulnerable is the one surviving on La Canna, a columnar volcanic stack off the Filicudi Island. Here, I report the results of the first climbing expedition by a biologist on La Canna, that contributed direct observations and updated information on the size, morphology, and genetic variability of this population. Lizard density at the sampling site (a small terrace at 50 m of altitude) was 1.7 m?2, twice of a previous estimate. Standard methods for estimating population size are unsuitable for La Canna. An educated guess of about a hundred individuals can be drawn, considering the extent of habitat available on the stack and the number of observed lizards. Lizards on La Canna were not fearless, despite what was reported by alpinists, possibly because of aggressive intraspecific interactions or high environmental temperatures during sampling. Biometric data significantly extends the body size of La Canna’s lizards and indicates that it is not smaller than other P. raffonei populations. A complete lack of genetic diversity was found at the mitochondrial nd4 gene, in line with previous allozyme data and with estimates on other microinsular Podarcis populations. The small size of the La Canna population implies severe genetic drift and an extremely high level of inbreeding, as supported by low heterozygosity found across the genome. Detrimental effects of inbreeding depression are evident as cephalic malformations observed in all captured lizards of La Canna and might represent the more immediate threat to the persistence of this population.
Salvi, D. & Bombi, P. (2010) -
Sardinia shows a clear lack of herpetological data due to an evident paucity of herpetological surveys. This gap of knowledge is worthy of attention, since Sardinia hosts a rich herpetofauna with a large proportion of endemic species, and distribution data are crucial for targeting conservation efforts. In this paper we provide new distribution data for Sardinian reptiles, with the aim of updating our knowledge on their specific distribution. Data were opportunistically recorded during ten years of field research in Sardinia, carried out in more than twenty campaigns from April 1999 to June 2009. All the eighteen reptile species belonging to the Sardinian fauna were recorded. A total amount of 293 faunistic data were collected from 178 different localities covering the entire study area. Within this dataset, 137 faunistic data fall outside known species’ ranges as reported in the Atlas of Italian amphibians and reptiles. In conclusion, data presented here produced a remarkable increase of knowledge on Sardinian reptiles distribution compare to that reported in the last available syntheses. Nevertheless, it should be evidenced that, notwithstanding the present updating, the knowledge of Sardinian reptiles’ distribution is probably still far from being exhaustive. Thus, further investigations are strongly required for obtaining a complete picture and identifying conservation priorities in terms of isolated species/populations and areas of high diversity and endemicity.
Salvi, D. & Bombi, P. & Corti, C. & Bologna, M.A. (2008) -
Salvi, D. & Bombi, P. & Sindaco, R. (2016) -
Salvi, D. & Bombi, P. & Vignoli, L. (2011) -
The southern rock lizard Australolacerta australis is a rock-dwelling lizard endemic to South Africa. The phylogenetic relationships of this species with other lacertid lizards are still not clear and have never been assessed in any phylogeny of Lacertidae using DNA sequence data. In this study we employed 3 044 base pairs from mitochondrial cytochrome b, 12S and 16S rRNA genes to investigate the phylogenetic position and the evolutionary history of A. australis. We performed phylogenetic analyses under the assumptions of Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian inference and estimated the timing of the cladogenic events related to A. australis by using a relaxed molecular clock method. Our phylogenetic reconstruction clearly placed A. australis within the southern African branch of the tribe Eremiadini including genera Tropidosaura, Meroles, and Pedioplanis. The former genus constitutes with A. australis a clade endemic to southernmost mountains of Africa. The radiation of this southern African clade is estimated to have occurred during the Mid Miocene (14.7
Salvi, D. & Capula, M. & Bombi, P. & Bologna, M. (2008) -
Archaeolacerta bedriagae (Camerano, 1885) is a rock lizard endemic to Corsica and Sardinia. Based on weak morphological traits four subspecies have been described to date. The nominal subspecies (A. b. bedriagae) occurs on Corsica. The three following subspecies inhabit different geographic areas of Sardinia: A. b. sardoa (Gennargentu Massif), A. b. paessleri (Limbara Mountains), A. b. ferrerae (coastal Gallura). Allozyme variation in A. bedriagae was previously investigated by Guillame and Lanza (1982). These authors compared three populations only (one from Corsica and two from Sardinia) and obtained very high values of Nei’s genetic distance, ranging from 0.172 to 0.309. However, the values of genetic distance indicated by those authors were completely wrong because of miscalculation. On a subsequent paper Guillame (1987) proposed a different genetic scenario, indicating corrected values of Nei’s genetic distance among the three A. bedriagae populations, ranging from 0.133 to 0.186. These values, although being much lower than those estimated by Guillame and Lanza, are in fact very high, falling into the range obtained from comparisons between well recognized biological species of the genera Lacerta and Podarcis. In spite of this, Guillaume (1987) proposed to synonymised two subspecies (A. b. paessleri and A. b. ferrerae), and Lanza (1983) questioned the systematic validity of the Sardinian subspecies. On the other hand, based on the genetic data reported by Guillame and Lanza, Arribas (1999) hypothesized the occurrence of unrecognized species of the genus Archaeolacerta within the Corso-Sardinian area. In addition, in a paper devoted to the systematics of the tribe Lacertini, Arnold et al. (2007) found considerable mitochondrial DNA variation among three Corsican individuals of A. bedriagae, and hypothesized the occurrence of more than one species. In this paper allozyme variation of A. bedriagae was studied, and the results were compared with those obtained in previous studies. A total of 55 individuals from 5 Corsican (Roccapina) and Sardinian (Punta Falcone, Limbara Mountains, Gennargentu Massif, Mount Settefratelli) localities were used. All recognized subspecies were included in the analysis, plus one sample from southern Sardinia (Mount Settefratelli) for which the recognition of the subspecific status was suggested. For interspecific comparison, 11 individuals of Iberolacerta cyreni (Müller & Hellmich 1937) from Central Spain (Sierra de Guadarrama) were also analyzed. Approximately 2 cm of the tail tip of each lizard was taken off, in order to avoid killing animals, and stored below -70°C until electrophoretic analysis. Standard horizontal starch gel electrophoresis was performed on muscle tissue homogenates using buffer systems and procedures described by Capula. Gene products for the following 20 presumptive gene loci were analaysed,: αGpd, Ldh-1, Ldh-2, Mdh-1, Mdh-2, Me-1, Me-2, Idh-1, Idh-2, 6Pgd, Sod-1, Ak, Pgm-1, Pgm-2, Ck, Mpi, Gpi, Est-1, Gp-1, Gp-2. Genotype and allele frequencies were determined by direct count from allozyme phenotypes. The genetic relationships among the populations studied were evaluated using Nei’s standard genetic distance (D). The phenetic relationships among populations were estimated by means of the UPGMA method. Eleven out of 20 loci were found to be monomorphic, i.e. fixed for the same allele, in all populations (αGpd, Ldh-2, Mdh-1, Mdh-2, Idh-2, Sod-1, Ak, Pgm-1, Pgm-2, Gp-1, Gp-2). Three out of nine polymorphic loci were weakly polymorphic (Ldh-1, Me-2, Mpi). Lizards from Corsica were characterized by two unique alleles, i.e. Mpi102 and 6Pgd95. Four unique alleles were found in the Sardinian populations: Est-1102 in all populations, Me-295 in the population from the Limbara Mountains, 6Pgd105 and Ldh-195 in the populations from the Mount Settefratelli. Low levels of genetic differentiation were found in A. bedriagae, Nei’s D ranging from 0.013 to 0.042, with an average genetic distance of 0.026 (SD = 0.010). A similar value of Nei’s D was found between Corsican and Sardinian populations (D = 0.025; SD = 0.008). The sample from the Mount Settefratelli (southern Sardinia) was considerably differentiated from the other ones (average D = 0.032; SD = 0.011). Low Nei’s genetic distance values were found comparing the four recognized subspecies (average D = 0.023; SD = 0.007). Our results are not in accordance neither with those reported by Guillame and Lanza, nor with those by Guillame (1987), clearly indicating low levels of genetic differentiation among populations. Genetic differentiation among the recognized subspecies resulted to be much lower than the one estimated by Guillame and Lanza (1982). Our results are in agreement with the mitochondrial DNA analyses, the nuclear markers analyses and the morphometric analyses. This would indicate that the supposed occurrence of a unrecognized Archaeolacerta species within the Corso-Sardinian Plate is not supported by genetic data.
Salvi, D. & Capula, M. & Bombi, P. & Bologna, M.A. (2009) -
Archaeolacerta bedriagae is a rock lizard endemic to Corsica and Sardinia. Four subspecies have been recozied to date on the basis of morphological traits. Previous allozyme investigations revealed high genetic differentiation among populations of the species. Based on these results some authors hypothesized that more than one species of Archaeolacerta may occur on Corsica and Sardinia. In this paper we investigated allozyme variation at 19 gene loci in 5 populations belonging to all subspecies of A. bedriagae in order to study genetic differentiation among populations from Corsica and Sardinia, and to compare our results with those obtained in previous studies carried out on allozyme variation and taxonomy of the species. Low levels of genetic differentiation (average Nei`s D = 0.026) and heterogeneity (mean FST = 0.147) were found comparing the A. bedriagae populations, and there was no evidence of interruption or restriction of gene flow. This is in agreement with the available molecular and morphometric data, while it is not in accordance with allozyme data reported in the previous studies. Our data do not support the hypothesis of an unrecognized criptic species of Archaeolacerta in Corsica and Sardinia, and indicate that the definitive assessment of the taxonomic status of the A. bedriagae populations requires further investigation.
The peculiar bioclimatic and geographic features of Corso–Sardinian islands may provide an ideal scenario for investigating microevolutionary processes, given their large heterogeneity of environments, which could affect dispersal and gene flow among populations, as well as processes of local adaptation. The genetic variation and differentiation among populations of the endemic lizard Archaeolacerta bedriagae were studied by allozyme electrophoresis at 20 presumptive loci. The genetic structure of this species is characterized by relatively high levels of polymorphism and low differentiation among populations. The pattern of genetic differentiation cannot be explained by genetic drift as a function of geographic distance. Genetic distance data show that genetic variation is distributed into three geographically coherent population groups and suggest a recent (Late Pleistocene) origin for the observed geographic fragmentation. The analysis of environmental correlates of allozymic variation indicates a strong correlation of the Idh-1 locus with climatic variables. The frequency of the Idh-1106 allele is negatively correlated with annual temperature, and positively correlated with annual precipitation. In addition, the observed heterozygosity at this locus decreases towards more arid climatic regimes. The results obtained support the assumption of differential selection acting on Idh-1 allozymes under diverse climates. An association between Idh-1 allozymes and local bioclimatic regimes was also observed for the sympatric lizard Podarcis tiliguerta, suggesting a key role for such selective agents on Idh-1 polymorphism in these two Corso–Sardinian lacertids.
Salvi, D. & Carretero, M.A. & Bologna, M.A. & Harris, D.J. (2010) -
Corsica and Sardinia are important hotspots of diversity and endemism. Surprisingly, only a few studies are available on geographic variation and evolutionary history of Corsican-Sardinian species. In this study we investigate biogeographic and evolutionary patterns of three lacertid lizards endemic to Corsica and Sardinia under a comparative phylogeographic framework. We analysed mitochondrial gene genealogies in Archaeolacerta bedriagae, Podarcis tiliguerta, and Algyroides fitzingeri including populations from the entire species’ distribution range. Preliminary results show a complete lack of phylogeographical concordance among significant genealogical partitions across the studied species. Each species shows an idiosyncratic pattern of geographical distribution of genetic diversity and a different degree of differentiation among the main lineages with P. tiliguerta likely representing a species-complex, A. bedriagae showing two main (well differentiated) lineages and A. fitzingeri showing a very low differentiation among populations. Based on these preliminary results, the absence of common phylogeographic patterns in these three co-distributed species would reflect a complex of historical, evolutionary and biogeographical processes within the Corso-Sardinian biota. Further investigations with the inclusion of nuclear markers are needed for a better understanding of the complexity of the processes underlying the origin and the patterns of diversity in endemic reptiles from Corsica and Sardinia.
Salvi, D. & Harris, D. J. & Perera, A. & Bologna, M.A. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Algyroides fitzingeri is a Corso-Sardinian endemic lizard belonging to a relictual genus within the Lacertini radiation. In recent phylogeographic studies of Corso-Sardinian endemic lizards incongruent patterns are emerging. We investigated the mitochondrial genetic variation of A. fitzingeri across Corsica and Sardinia to obtain a preliminary portrait of its phylogeographic history. This species showed some polymorphism, but with low genetic differentiation between populations, that probably originated during the Pleistocene. Corsican populations are closely related to those from North Sardinia and are likely to have originated from them, given the higher diversity and deeper phylogeographic structure observed in Sardinia than in Corsica. While the phylogeographic structure of A. fitzingeri in Corsica is surprisingly shallow when compared with other co-distributed lizards, in Sardinia a common pattern apparently emerges. Further research is needed to confirm the hypotheses here presented and to provide a conclusive assessment of the phylogeography of this species.
Salvi, D. & Harris, D.J. & Bombi, P. & Carretero, M.A. & Bologna, M.A. (2010) -
Archaeolacerta bedriagae is a rock-dwelling lizard endemic to the Corso-Sardinian insular system. We investigated the phylogeography of the species by using the mitochondrial ND4 and flanking tRNAs genes from 94 specimens belonging to 19 populations. Phylogenetic, Barrier, and SAMOVA analyses revealed a highly structured pattern characterized by two levels of discontinuities in the geographical distribution of mtDNA diversity: (i) a deep phylogeographic break in Northern Corsica between Lineage A, restricted to northernmost Corsica, and Lineage B widespread all over the remaining range of the species, and (ii) some minor phylogeographic discontinuities within lineage B, which is sub-structured into six closely related haplotype clades with remarkable concordance with geography. The first evolutionary event concerning the split between the two main lineages from an ancestral population occurred in the Upper Pliocene (5.87–3.68 mya), while the divergence within lineage B would have started from the Upper Pleistocene (2.5–1.6 mya), between Corsican and Sardinian populations. Somewhat later (1.7–1.1 mya), the Sardinian ancestral population underwent fragmentation into population groups inhabiting North, Central, and South Sardinia. As inferred from previous allozyme surveys, the divergence among population groups would be driven by allopatric fragmentation, while the discrepancy concerning the major partition into two lineages inferred from mtDNA but not apparent in analysis of allozymes needs further investigation.
Salvi, D. & Harris, D.J. & Bombi, P. & Carretero, M.A. & Bologna, M.A. (2007) -
Archaeolacerta bedriagae is a rock lizard endemic to Corsica and Sardinia. Four subspecies have been described based on weak morphological traits: the nominal one spread in Corsica and the remaining three in Sardinia (sardoa, paessleri and ferrerae, respectively in the Gennargentu Massif, Limbara mountains and coastal Gallura). Recent analyses of both allozyme and morphological variability did not support this subspecific arrangement (Salvi et al., unpubl.). Phylogeographic structure and relationships of 13 populations, representing the whole range of A. bedriagae, were analysed using mitochondrial sequences of nad4 and tRNA His genes. Genomic DANN was extracted from tail tips of 64 specimens and a fragment of 850 bp was amplified by PCR using ND4 and Leu primers. Sequences (from GenBank) of four species belonging to the genera Podarcis and Lacerta were employed as outgroups. Phylogenetic analyses were performed under the assumptions of both maximum parsimony (MP) and distance (NJ). We also analysed the genealogical relationships among the 19 haplotypes found by a statistical parsimony network. Both phylogenetic and haplotype network analyses showed the same geographical structure of genetic variability. The northern Corsica population appeared deeply differentiated from the remaining ones, whereas the southern Corsica population represented the sister group of the Sardinian populations. In Sardinia we identified three major groups distributed from North to South, being the Southernmost fairly differentiated from the others. The most parsimonious biogeographical hypothesis indicates an ancient colonization from southern Corsica to Sardinia, where considerable fragmentation into population groups subsequently occurred.
Salvi, D. & Harris, D.J. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Pinho, C. (2013) -
Background: Pleistocene climatic oscillations have played a major role in structuring present-day biodiversity. The southern Mediterranean peninsulas have long been recognized as major glacial refugia, from where Northern Europe was post-glacially colonized. However, recent studies have unravelled numerous additional refugia also in northern regions. We investigated the phylogeographic pattern of the widespread Western Palaearctic lizard Podarcis muralis, using a range-wide multilocus approach, to evaluate whether it is concordant with a recent expansion from southern glacial refugia or alternatively from a combination of Mediterranean and northern refugia. Results: We analyzed DNA sequences of two mitochondrial (cytb and nd4) and three nuclear (acm4, mc1r, and pdc) gene fragments in individuals from 52 localities across the species range, using phylogenetic and phylogeographic methods. The complex phylogeographic pattern observed, with 23 reciprocally monophyletic allo- parapatric lineages having a Pleistocene divergence, suggests a scenario of long-term isolation in multiple ice-age refugia across the species distribution range. Multiple lineages were identified within the three Mediterranean peninsulas – Iberia, Italy and the Balkans - where the highest genetic diversity was observed. Such an unprecedented phylogeographic pattern - here called “refugia within all refugia” – compasses the classical scenario of multiple southern refugia. However, unlike the southern refugia model, various distinct lineages were also found in northern regions, suggesting that additional refugia in France, Northern Italy, Eastern Alps and Central Balkans allowed the long-term persistence of this species throughout Pleistocene glaciations. Conclusions: The phylogeography of Podarcis muralis provides a paradigm of temperate species survival in Mediterranean and extra-Mediterranean glacial refugia. Such refugia acted as independent biogeographic compartments for the long-term persistence of this species, for the differentiation of its genetic lineages, and for the short-distance post-glacial re-colonization of neighbouring areas. This finding echoes previous findings from recent phylogeographic studies on species from temperate ecoregions, thus suggesting the need for a reappraisal of the role of northern refugia for glacial persistence and post-glacial assembly of Holarctic biota.
We investigated the phylogeographic pattern of the widespread Western Palaearctic lizard Podarcis muralis, using a range-wide multilocus approach, to evaluate whether it is concordant with a recent expansion from southern glacial refugia or alternatively from a combination of Mediterranean and northern refugia. We analyzed DNA sequences of two mitochondrial (cytb and nd4) and three nuclear (acm4, mc1r, and pdc) gene fragments in individuals from 52 localities across the species range using phylogenetic and phylogeographic methods. The complex phylogeographic pattern observed, with multiple reciprocally monophyletic allo- parapatric lineages having a Pleistocene divergence, suggests a scenario of long-term isolation in multiple ice-age refugia across the species distribution range. Multiple lineages were identified within the three Mediterranean peninsulas but also outside southern peninsulas, suggesting that additional refugia in France, Northern Italy, Eastern Alps and Central Balkans allowed the long-term persistence of this species throughout the Pleistocene glaciations. This finding provides a paradigm of temperate species survival in Mediterranean and extra-Mediterranean glacial refugia, suggesting the need for a reappraisal of the role of northern refugia for glacial persistence and postglacial assembly of temperate ecoregions.
Salvi, D. & Pinho, C. & Harris, D.J. (2017) -
Background: Mediterranean islands host a disproportionately high level of biodiversity and endemisms. Growing phylogeographic evidence on island endemics has unveiled unexpectedly complex patterns of intra-island diversification, which originated at diverse spatial and temporal scales. We investigated multilocus genetic variation of the Corsican-Sardinian endemic lizard Podarcis tiliguerta with the aim of shedding more light on the evolutionary processes underlying the origin of Mediterranean island biodiversity. -- Results: We analysed DNA sequences of mitochondrial (12S and nd4) and nuclear (acm4 and mc1r) gene fragments in 174 individuals of P. tiliguerta from 81 localities across the full range of the species in a geographic and genealogical framework. We found surprisingly high genetic diversity both at mitochondrial and nuclear loci. Seventeen reciprocally monophyletic allopatric mitochondrial haplogroups were sharply divided into four main mitochondrial lineages (two in Corsica and two in Sardinia) of Miocene origin. In contrast, shallow divergence and shared diversity within and between islands was observed at the nuclear loci. We evaluated alternative biogeographic and evolutionary scenarios to explain such profound discordance in spatial and phylogenetic patterning between mitochondrial and nuclear genomes. While neutral models provided unparsimonious explanations for the observed pattern, the hypothesis of environmental selection driving mitochondrial divergence in the presence of nuclear gene flow is favoured. -- Conclusions: Our study on the genetic variation of P. tiliguerta reveals surprising levels of diversity underlining a complex phylogeographic pattern with a striking example of mito-nuclear discordance. These findings have profound implications, not only for the taxonomy and conservation of P. tiliguerta. Growing evidence on deep mitochondrial breaks in absence of geographic barriers and of climatic factors associated to genetic variation of Corsican-Sardinian endemics warrants additional investigation on the potential role of environmental selection driving the evolution of diversity hotspots within Mediterranean islands.
Salvi, D. & Pinho, C. & Mendes, J. & Harris, D.J. (2021) -
Podarcis wall lizards are endemic to the Mediterranean Basin where they represent the predominant reptile group. Despite being extensively used as model organisms in evolutionary and ecological studies their phylogeny and historical biogeography are still incompletely resolved. Moreover, molecular clock calibrations used in wall lizard phylogeography are based on the assumption of vicariant speciation triggered by the abrupt Mediterranean Sea level rise at the end of the Messinian salinity crisis (MSC). However, the validity of this biogeographic calibration remains untested. In this study we inferred a robust time tree based on multilocus data and fossil calibrations using both gene concatenation and species-tree approaches and including models with gene-flow. We found five deeply divergent, geographically coherent, and well-supported clades comprising species from i) Iberian Peninsula and North Africa; ii) Western Mediterranean islands, iii) Sicilian and Maltese islands; and iv-v) Balkan region and Aegean islands. The mitochondrial tree shows some inconsistencies with the species tree that warrant future investigation. Diversification of main clades is estimated in a short time frame during the Middle Miocene and might have been associated with a period of global climate cooling with the establishment of a marked climatic zonation in Europe. Cladogenetic events within the main clades are scattered throughout the time tree, from the Late Miocene to the Early Pleistocene, suggesting that speciation events in wall lizards reflect a complex interplay between regional topography, climate and geological history rather than a shared major climatic or paleogeographic event. Our absolute time estimates, as well as a relative dating approach, demonstrate that the assumption of a causal link between sea-level rise at the end of the MSC and the diversification of many island endemics is not justified. This study reinforces the notion that multiple dispersal and vicariant events, at different time frames, are required to explain current allopatric distributions and to account for the historical assembly of Mediterranean biota, and cautions against the use of biogeographic calibrations based on the assumption of vicariance.
Salvi, D. & Schembri, P. & Sciberras, A. & Harris, D.J. (2014) -
The Expansion-Contraction (EC) model predicts demographic and range contraction of temperate species during Pleistocene glaciations as a consequence of climate-related habitat changes, and provides a paradigm for explaining the high intraspecific diversity found in refugia in terms of long-term demographic stability. However, recent evidence has revealed a weak predictive power of this model for terrestrial species in insular and coastal settings. We investigated the Pleistocene EC dynamics and their evolutionary consequences on temperate species using the Maltese archipelago and its endemic lizard Podarcis filfolensis as a model system. The evolutionary and demographic history of P. filfolensis as inferred from mitochondrial and nuclear sequences data does not conform to the EC model predictions, supporting (i) demographic and spatial stability or expansion, rather than contraction, of the northern and southern lineages during the last glacial period, and (ii) a major role for allopatric differentiation primed by sea-level dynamics, rather than prolonged demographic stability, in the formation of the observed genetic diversity. When combined with evidence from other Mediterranean refugia, this study shows how the incorporation of Pleistocene sea-level variations in the EC model accounts for a reverse demographic and range response of insular and coastal temperate biotas relative to continental ones. Furthermore, this cross-archipelago pattern in which allopatric diversity is formed and shaped by EC cycles resembles that seen between isolated populations within mainland refugia and suggests that the EC model, originally developed to explain population fluctuations into and out-of refugia, may be appropriate for describing the demographic and evolutionary dynamics driving the high genetic diversity observed in these areas.
Salvi, D. & Schembri, P.& Sciberras, A. & Harris, D.J. (2013) -
We investigated the phylogeography and historical demography of the Maltese wall lizard Podarcis filfolensis using both mitochondrial and nuclear genetic markers. We included samples from all the main islands of the Maltese and Pelagian archipelagos and from every islet and offshore rock where this species occurs. The phylogenetic analyses show two main mitochondrial phylogroups, one occurring in the island of Malta and the islet of Filfla (Maltese lineage) and the other one mainly distributed on Gozo and Comino islands and their surrounding islets, and on the Pelagian islands (Gozitan lineage). We discuss what demographic dynamics and microevolutionary processes have been involved in shaping the pattern of genetic diversity and distribution of P. filfolensis within the general framework of Pleistocene biogeography of temperate biota in coastal areas.
Salvidio, S. (1994) -
Salvidio, S. & Bologna, M.A. & Cheylan, M. (2011) -
Salvidio, S. & Calvi, G. & Lamagni, L. & Gardini, G. (2006) -
La lucertola ocellata Timon lepidus (Daudin, 1802) è diffuso nella penisola iberica, nel sud della Francia e nella Liguria occidentale e centrale (Mateo e Cheylan, 1997), regione che costituisce il limite orientale della sua distribuzione (Camerano, 1885; Bruno, 1982; Ferri et al., 1991). In Italia, l’areale della specie è frammentato (doria e Salvidio, 1994) con popolazioni isolate, spesso minacciate dalla continua alterazione degli habitat idonei e in particolare dagli incendi e dalla continua edificazione delle aree costiere (Salvidio et al., 2004). L’interesse biogeografico e conservazionistico di queste popolazioni al limite di areale è pertanto evidente, ma i dati sulla biologia di questo lacertide in Italia sono ancora scarsi e le informazioni riportate da Corti e Lo Cascio (1999) si riferiscono solo alle popolazioni spagnole e francesi.
Salvidio, S. & Lamagni, L. & Bombi, P. & Bologna, M.A. (2004) -
The ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus), which reaches its eastern range limit in Italy, is distributed along the coastal areas of Liguria. A field survey from 1999 to 2002, verified the status of the Italian populations. The observation of this species is very difficult in Liguria because of the scattered populations and their scarce density. Some new localities were discovered both in the Imperia and Savona provinces, and others were confirmed. An analysis of previous known records was also carried out. T. lepidus is distributed in this area from sea level to about 670 m a.s.l. in several primary or derived Mediterranean habitats such as maquis, pine open woodland and olive groves. The species has a wide phenology, and sightings have been recorded from January to November, though it is particularly active from April to September. The conservation status of the sites and their ecological suitability for the species were evaluated, and a general conservation strategy proposed.
Salvidio, S. & Pasteur, G. & Heulin, B. & Böhme, W. & Kupriyanova, L.A. & Guillaume, C. (1990) -
The gene coding for mannose phosphate isomerase (MPI) has been found to be sex-linked in Common Lizard (Lacerta vivipara) samples from Russia to France. Both sex chromosomes can express one or two codominant alleles. The results are in agreement with the Z1Z2W heteromorphic karyotype described in L. vivipara populations from central France. Allozyme frequencies can strongly vary between regions; in the Austrian population sampled, an allele that is rare or absent elsewhere has been fixed on chromosome W. The possibility is raised that habitat selection involving MPI allozymes will be demonstrated with suitable sampling, while the existence of endocyclic selection has been substantiated. The data suggest that the Z1Z2W sex determination system is older than implied by the literature and possibly fixed in the whole species, but it is concluded that another sex-linked gene than MPI has been instrumental in fixing the translocation involved.
Salvidio, S. & Sindaco, R. & Emanueli, L. & Doria, G. (1996) -
Salzer, B (1962) -
Sämann, J. (2006) -
Es werden Reiseeindrücke von einem Besuch der Rieseneidechsen (Gallotia intermedia) bei Guaza im Süden von Teneriffa, der in La Laguna gehaltenen Rieseneidechsen (Gallotia intermedia) aus dem Teno-Gebirge und der Hierro-Rieseneidechsen (Gallotia simonyi) auf der Insel El Hierro nebst einigen Anmerkungen und Informationen vom April 2006 geschildert.
Sämann, J. (2007) -
Sämann, J. (2010) -
Sämann, J. (2012) -
Uncommon appearance of hatchlings of the Three-lined Lizard (Lacerta media media LANTZ & CYRÉBN, 1920) in an outdoor enclosure in March 2012.
Sämann, J. (2013) -
Unusual appearance of six hatchlings of ther Three-lined Lizard (Lacerta media media LANTZ & CYRÉN, 1920) in an outdoor enclosure in April 2013.
Sämann, J. & Schuster, P. & Pfau, B. (2008) -
In diesem Bericht wir die aktuelle Situation der Rieseneidechsen auf den Kanaren-Inseln La Gomera und El Hierro dargestellt. Mit der dringend notwendigen Einzäunung der Wiederansiedlungsgebiete auf La Gomera wird noch 2008 begonnen werden, sodass, wie geplant, 2009 die ersten nachgezüchteten Rieseneidechsen ausgewildert werden können. Das Eidechsen-Zuchtzentrum auf El Hierro war im Januar 2007 von einem Erdrutsch getroffen und schwer beschädigt worden. Dennoch wird dort so gut wie möglich weiter gearbeitet und auch geforscht, und die Planungen für ein neues, etwas abseits gelegenes Zuchtzentrum sind schon weit fortgeschritten und sollen hier kurz vorgestellt werden.
Sämann, J. & Zauner, J. (2010) -
During two short trips to the island Cres in the Kvarner bay in May 2009 and June 2010 the authors observed an introduced population of the Sharp-snouted Rock Lizard (Dalmatolacerta oxycephala) at a wall near the habor of Osor.
Sampaio, L. & Jesus, J. & Crespo, E. (1998) -
Sampedro Sigalat, C. (2015) -
Sampedro, C. & Font, E. & Desfilis, E. (2008) -
Many lizards rely on chemoreception for crucial aspects of their biology, including exploration, prey and predator detection, and intraspecific communication. Here we investigate sex and seasonal variation in size and proliferative activity in chemosensory areas of the lizard brain. We captured adult Iberian wall lizards (Podarcis hispanica) of either sex in the breeding (April) and non-breeding (November) season, injected them with 5-bromo-2`-deoxyuridine (BrdU) and killed them 3 weeks later. We removed the brains, measured the length of the olfactory bulbs, and counted BrdU-labelled cells in the main and accessory olfactory bulbs (MOB, AOB), lateral cortex (LC) and nucleus sphericus (NS). Our results show that, relative to body size, males have larger MOBs and AOBs than females; however, relative to brain size, males have larger AOBs, but not larger MOBs than females. Additionally, males produce more new cells than females in the olfactory bulbs, LC and NS. We failed to detect significant seasonal changes or sex x season interaction in size or proliferative activity in these areas. Sex differences in the addition of newly generated cells--mainly neurons--may be partly responsible for the size differences in chemosensory brain areas. The presence of sexual dimorphism in AOB is expected given the available behavioural evidence, which suggests that males of P. hispanica are more responsive than females to socially relevant chemical stimuli. This is the first demonstration of sexual dimorphism in size and proliferative activity in chemosensory areas of a non-mammalian species.
Sampere i Pujol, X. (2002) -
San José García, L.M. (2013) -
San Jose Garcia, L.M. & González Jimena, V. & Zardoya, R. & Fitze, P.S. (2010) -
San José, J.L. (2012) -
San José, L.M. & Fitze, P.S. (2013) -
Ornamental colours usually evolve as honest signals of quality, which is supported by the fact that they frequently depend on individual condition. It has generally been suggested that some, but not all types of ornamental colours are condition dependent, indicating that different evolutionary mechanisms underlie the evolution of multiple types of ornamental colours even when these are exhibited by the same species. Stress hormones, which negatively affect condition, have been shown to affect colour traits based on different pigments and structures, suggesting that they mediate condition dependence of multiple ornament types both among and within individuals. However, studies investigating effects of stress hormones on different ornament types within individuals are lacking, and thus, evidence for this hypothesis is scant. Here, we investigated whether corticosterone mediates condition dependence of multiple ornaments by manipulating corticosterone levels and body condition (via food availability) using a two-factorial design and by assessing their effect on multiple colour traits in male common lizards. Corticosterone negatively affected ventral melanin- and carotenoid-based coloration, whereas food availability did not affect coloration, despite its significant effect on body condition. The corticosterone effect on melanin- and carotenoid-based coloration demonstrates the condition dependence of both ornaments. Moreover, corticosterone affected ventral coloration and had no effect on the nonsexually selected dorsal coloration, showing specific effects of corticosterone on ornamental ventral colours. This suggests that corticosterone simultaneously mediates condition dependence of multiple colour traits and that it therefore accounts for covariation among them, which may influence their evolution via correlational selection.
San-Jose, L.M. & Gonzales-Jimena, V. & Fitze, P.S. (2008) -
San-Jose, L.M. & Gonzales-Jimena, V. & Fitze, P.S. (2012) -
The Spanish sand racer (Psammodromus hispanicus) has been recently split into three distinct species: P. hispanicus, P. edwardsianus, and P. occidentalis. Some morphological differences have been reported but there is as yet no description allowing unambiguous identification of the three species. Here, we describe differentiation in body measurements, scalation traits, and colour traits as well as in the degree of sexual dimorphism. Our results show that P. edwardsianus can be easily distinguished by the presence of a supralabial scale below the subocular scale, which is absent in the other two species. Psammodromus hispanicus and P. occidentalis can be distinguished by the number of femoral pores, throat scales and ocelli, and the relative width of the anal scale. The degree of sexual size dimorphism and sexual colour dimorphism substantially differs among species, suggesting that different scenarios of sexual and natural selection may exist for each species. Moreover, sexually selected traits (nuptial colouration, ocelli, and femoral pores) significantly differ among species, suggesting that visual and chemical communication may also differ among species. Such differences could prevent reproduction and gene flow at secondary contact zones, potentially reinforcing isolation and speciation within this group of lizards.
San-Jose, L.M. & Granado-Lorencio, F. & Fitze, P.S. (2012) -
Vitamin E, vitamin A, and carotenoids are essential micronutrients for animals because of their antioxidant and immunostimulant functions and their implications for growth, development, and reproduction. In contrast to mammals and birds, information about their occurrence and distribution is generally lacking in reptiles, constraining our understanding of the use of these micronutrients. Using highperformance liquid chromatography, we determined the concentrations of vitamin E, vitamin A, and carotenoids in plasma, storage sites (liver and abdominal fat bodies), and in the colored ventral skin of male Common Lizards, Lacerta vivipara. All tissues shared a similar micronutrient profile, except the liver, which also showed traces of vitamin A1. The main vitamin E compound present was a-tocopherol followed by lower concentrations of c-(b-)tocopherol. Vitamin A2 was the main vitamin A compound and it showed the highest concentration in the liver, where vitamin A2 esters and traces of vitamin A1 were found. Lutein was the main carotenoid, and it formed esters in the liver and the ventral skin. Zeaxanthin and low concentrations of bcarotene were also present. The liver was the main storage site for carotenoid and vitamin A, whereas hepatic vitamin E concentrations resembled those present in abdominal fat bodies. Compared with abdominal fat bodies, the ventral skin contained lower concentrations of vitamin A and vitamin E, but similar concentrations of carotenoids. These results suggest that important differences exist in micronutrient presence, concentration, and distribution among tissues of lizards and other taxa such as birds and mammals.
San-Jose, L.M. & Granado-Lorencio, F. & Sinervo, B. & Fitze, P.S. (2013) -
Carotenoids typically need reflective background components to shine. Such components, iridophores, leucophores, and keratin- and collagen-derived structures, are generally assumed to show no or little environmental variability. Here, we investigate the origin of environmentally induced variation in the carotenoid-based ventral coloration of male common lizards (Lacerta vivipara) by investigating the effects of dietary carotenoids and corticosterone on both carotenoid- and background-related reflectance. We observed a general negative chromatic change that was prevented by β-carotene supplementation. However, chromatic changes did not result from changes in carotenoid-related reflectance or skin carotenoid content but from changes in background-related reflectance that may have been mediated by vitamin A1. An in vitro experiment showed that the encountered chromatic changes most likely resulted from changes in iridophore reflectance. Our findings demonstrate that chromatic variation in carotenoid-based ornaments may not exclusively reflect differences in integumentary carotenoid content and, hence, in qualities linked to carotenoid deposition (e.g., foraging ability, immune response, or antioxidant capacity). Moreover, skin carotenoid content and carotenoid-related reflectance were related to male color polymorphism, suggesting that carotenoid-based coloration of male common lizards is a multicomponent signal, with iridophores reflecting environmental conditions and carotenoids reflecting genetically based color morphs.
San-Jose, L.M. & Huyghe, K. & Schuerch, J. & Fitze, P.S. (2017) -
Although the signalling role of melanin-based coloration has been largely debated, an increasing number of studies support its relationship to different fitness-related traits. However, whether melanin-based coloration could also function as an indicator of performance has been barely explored despite the influence that performance has on fitness. We investigated the relationship between melanin-based coloration and bite force and sprint speed in male common lizards, Zootoca vivipara. Melanin-based coloration predicted performance, being positively and negatively related to bite force and sprint speed. The association between melanin-based coloration and bite force is mediated by positive associations between coloration and head and body size. We did not find an association between coloration and any morphological traits determining sprint speed and the driver of the encountered negative association remains unknown. The observed opposite relationships between coloration and performance traits suggests the existence of costs (e.g. darker males may have higher predation because of lower sprint speeds) and/or alternative performance strategies, which is congruent with disruptive selection on sprint speed in juvenile common lizards. Our findings suggest that melanin-based coloration could indicate performance capacity, a hypothesis that deserves further attention considering that, as shown here, more intense coloration may not necessarily reflect a better overall performance.
San-Jose, L.M. & Penalver-Alcaraz, M. & Huyghe, K. & Breedveld, M.C. & Fitze, P.S. (2016) -
Ecological and evolutionary processes in natural populations are largely influenced by the population’s stage-structure. Commonly, different classes have different competitive abilities, e.g., due to differences in body size, suggesting that inter-class competition may be important and largely asymmetric. However, experimental evidence states that inter-class competition, which is important, is rare and restricted to marine fish. Here, we manipulated the adult density in six semi-natural populations of the European common lizard, Zootoca vivipara, while holding juvenile density constant. Adult density affected juveniles, but not adults, in line with inter-class competition. High adult density led to lower juvenile survival and growth before hibernation. In contrast, juvenile survival after hibernation was higher in populations with high adult density, pointing to relaxed inter-class competition. As a result, annual survival was not affected by adult density, showing that differences in pre- and post-hibernation survival balanced each other out. The intensity of inter-class competition affected reproduction, performance, and body size in juveniles. Path analyses unravelled direct treatment effects on early growth (pre-hibernation) and no direct treatment effects on the parameters measured after hibernation. This points to allometry of treatment-induced differences in early growth, and it suggests that inter-class competition mainly affects the early growth of the competitively inferior class and thereby their future performance and reproduction. These results are in contrast with previous findings and, together with results in marine fish, suggest that the strength and direction of density dependence may depend on the degree of inter-class competition, and thus on the availability of resources used by the competing classes.
San-Jose, L.M. & Penalver-Alcázar, M. & Milá, B. & Gonzalez-Jimena, V. & Fitze, P.S. (2014) -
Rock-paper-scissors (RPS) dynamics, which maintain genetic polymorphisms over time through negative frequency-dependent (FD) selection, can evolve in short-lived species with no generational overlap, where they produce rapid morph frequency cycles. However, most species have overlapping generations and thus, rapid RPS dynamics are thought to require stronger FD selection, the existence of which yet needs to be proved. Here, we experimentally demonstrate that two cumulative selective episodes, FD sexual selection reinforced by FD selection on offspring survival, generate sufficiently strong selection to generate rapid morph frequency cycles in the European common lizard Zootoca vivipara, a multi-annual species with major generational overlap. These findings show that the conditions required for the evolution of RPS games are fulfilled by almost all species exhibiting genetic polymorphisms and suggest that RPS games may be responsible for the maintenance of genetic diversity in a wide range of species.
Sánchez Gumiel, N. (1991) -
En el presente trabajo se realiza un estudio completo de la parasitofauna del lacertido Podarcis dugesii del Archipielago de Madeira (Madeira, Porto Santo y Deserta Grande). Los principales objetivos desarrollados son: I. Revision bibliografica del hospedador asi como de los grupos de protozoos, trematodos, nematodos y acantocefalos parasitos de reptiles y actualizacion de sus claves taxanomicas; II. Aislamiento, identificacion y descripcion de las especies parasitas encontradas; III. Estudio de las relaciones filogeneticas y zoogeograficas existentes entre los hospedadores de areas geograficas proximas, con argumentos parasitarios. Con esta finalidad, se recogieron y examinaron 955 ejemplares de P. dugesii identificandose en ellos 10 especies de protozos, 2 de trematodos, 4 de nematodos (entre ellas una nueva especie) y un acantocefalo, ..
Sánchez-Hernández, J.C. & Carbonell, R. & Henriquez Perez, A. & Montealegre, M. & Gómez, L. (2004) -
A field study was performed to evaluate the effect of exposure to organophosphorus (OP) and carbamate (CB) pesticides on the lizard Gallotia galloti palmae. Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) activity was measured in the plasma of 420 lizards collected from agricultural and reference areas on the Island of La Palma (Canary Islands, Spain) in two sampling periods. Exposure to cholinesteraseinhibiting pesticides was evaluated by a statistical criterion based on a threshold value (two standard deviations below the mean enzyme activity) calculated for the reference group, and a chemical criterion based on the in vitro reactivation of BChE activity using pyridine- 2-aldoxime methochloride (2-PAM) or after water dilution of the sample. Mean (GSD) BChE activity for lizards from agricultural areas was significantly lower (Fuencaliente site=2.00G0.98 mmol min_1 ml_1, Tazacorte site=2.88G1.08) than that for lizards from the reference areas (Los Llanos site=3.06G1.17 mmol min_1 ml_1, Tigalate site=3.96G1.62). According to the statistical criterion, the number of lizards with BChE depressed was higher at Fuencaliente (22% of males and 25.4% of females) than that sampled at Tazacorte (7.8% of males and 6.2% of females). According to the chemical criterion, Fuencaliente also yielded a higher number of individuals (112 males and 47 females) with BChE activity inhibited by both OP and CB pesticides. CBs appeared to be the pesticides most responsible for BChE inhibition because most of the samples showed reactivation of BChE activity after water treatment (63.3% from Fuencaliente and 29% from Tazacorte). We concluded that the use of reactivation techniques on plasma BChE activity is a better and more accurate method for assessing field exposure to OP/CB pesticides in this lizard species than making direct comparisons of enzyme activity levels between sampling areas.
Sánchez-Vialas, A. & Calvo-Revuelta, M. (2018) -
A catalogue of the amphibians and reptiles from Morocco held at the Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales de Madrid (MNCN-CSIC) is presented. We highlight the valuable contributions of two historical expeditions in Morocco. In both expeditions a total of 31 species were collected, mainly from Essaouira, Tánger, Ketama and surroundings. The presence of the specimens which represented the first records of Cerastes vipera and Scincus albifasciatus for Morocco is confirmed. Also, the MNCN collection held the type series of Rana ridibunda riodeoroi, Psammodromus algirus ketamensis and Salamandra algira tingitana. Historical collected specimens held in scientific collections could provide valuable information for identify changes in biological communities and planning biodiversity conservation measures.
Sánchez-Vialas, A. & Calvo-Revuelta, M. (2021) -
Sánchez-Vialas, A. & Calvo-Revuelta, M. & Rubio, J.L. & Palacios, F. & Garcia-Paris, M. (2019) -
The taxonomy and nomenclature of Iberian Algyroides are problematic. The first taxon described, A. hidalgoi Boscá, 1916, was based on a single specimen that was subsequently lost. The description of the second taxon, A. marchi Valverde, 1958, was based on the comparison of a newly discovered population with the original description of A. hidalgoi. However, A. hidalgoi specimens have never been recorded since for any locality. Therefore, three questions need to be addressed: Is A. hidalgoi Boscá, 1916 a morphologically diagnosable taxon different from all non-Iberian species of Algyroides? are A. hidalgoi and A. marchi conspecific? And if so, which is the correct name for the species? To clarify the taxonomic status of the Iberian Algyroides we (1) compare Boscá’s A. hidalgoi original description against the descriptions of all other species of Algyroides, (2) test the accuracy of Boscá’s A. hidalgoi by comparing it against 204 Iberian museum specimens, and (3) designate a neotype of A. hidalgoi that fits the head pholidosis described in the original description. We show that none of the diagnostic characters used by Valverde to differentiate between A. hidalgoi and A. marchi are actually diagnostic, as we found high levels of variability on those characters in the studied specimens. Our results validate Boscá’s description of A. hidalgoi, which fits within the morphological variability observed for southern Iberian Algyroides. As a result, we propose the strict synonymy of A. marchi Valverde, 1958 with A. hidalgoi Boscá, 1916.
Sanchez, J.C. & Fossi, M.C. & Focardi, S. (1997) -
Sánchez, R.R. (2015) -
Sleep-wake cycle is the most studied circadian rhythms and sleep is a particular field in which neuroscience has deepened. Nevertheless, sleep evolution at mammalian level is still unclear. The last hypothesis is based on the fact that the dream of mammals comes from the vigil of reptiles, and to conduct these investigations electrophysiological criteria are used. This methodology includes registering the electroencephalogram (EEG), which indicates the brain`s electrical activity and which is the main indicator of sleep. To deepen the principles of sleep, this study is presented with reptils Gallotia galloti. Considering that tricyclic antidepressants (ADT) produce a total reduction of REM sleep in mammals, it ADT would eliminate some phase of reptiles vigil, this state could be understood as the phylogenetic predecessor of REM sleep. This work has shown that imipramine (ADT) produced on the EEG of Gallotia galloti the suppressing of the startle response after an acoustic stimulus, a fact that brings further evidence of the homology between reptiles waking and mammals sleep.
Sanchis, V. & Roig, J.M. & Carretero, M.A. & Roca, V. & Llorente, G.A. (2000) -
The helminths infesting the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Jacquin, 1787), were studied with spezial attention to the relations between the number of nematodes, Oswaldocruzia filiformis (Goeze, 1782), and the size, sex and age class of the host. The possible seasonality of the parasite intensity and the relationship with the feeding habits of the host were also tested. Helminth infracommunities of Z. vivipara were depauperate with lizards harbouring only two species, the trematode Plagiorchis molini (Lent et Freitas, 1940) and the nematode O. filiformis. A positive correlation between host size and the number of O. filiformis was found for female Z. vivipara. However, no correlation was detected between intensity and sex or age class. The feeding habits of Z. vivipara, the isolation of the population studies and the low level of interaction with other reptilian or amphibian species are suggested as the causes of the depauperate helminth infracommunities found in this lacertid lizard.
Sancho, V. & Mateo, J.A. (2020) -
Sanchooli, N. (2017) -
Climate condition is an important key affecting species presence, especially for reptiles. Precipitation and temperature are especially important environmental factors to consider. In the present study, I collected as many presence records as possible for seven lizard species from the Sistan region and analyzed them in relation to environmental variables using the maximum entropy algorithm. According to the analysis, temperature seasonality affected the distributions of three species (Eremias fasciata, Ophiomorus tridactylus, Teratoscincus bedriagai) and precipitation affected the presence of four species (Ablepharus pannonicus, Bunopus tuberculatus, Cyrtopodion scabrum, Trapelus agilis). The most important variable affecting E. fasciata and O.tridactylus (23% of contribution) is isothermality. For T. bedriagai, temperature seasonality was more important (32% contribution). Annual precipitation was the most highly contributed variable for A. pannonicus. Precipitation of the wettest month has a high contribution for the other species, representing 49, 48, and 54% for B. tuberculatus, C. scabrum and T. agilis, respectively.
Sandera, M. (2013) -
Sane, R. (2009) -
Sannolo, M. (2019) -
Reptiles have been considered “cold-blooded” for centuries, and even Linnaeus in his Systema Naturae placed them together with amphibians. However, from the ’40 of the previous century, a few researchers started to measure reptiles body temperature in the field. They soon discovered that reptiles can maintain their body temperature warmer than air temperature and to keep it constant over a considerable amount of time mainly by behavioural thermoregulation. In the following decades, thousands of articles investigated reptile thermal ecology. In recent years, along with the worldwide raising interest in the potential adverse effect of climate change on biodiversity, studies on reptile thermal ecology are gaining increasing scientific value, for example by showing that up to one-fifth of all reptile populations may go extinct by the end of the century. By contrast, water balance in reptiles has received comparatively less attention. Indeed, water has been often considered an amphibian’s issue, and temperature a reptile’s one. However, in recent years, several works are exploring the potential adverse effects of water shortage, dehydration, and rainfall regimes on reptile biodiversity, distribution and activity. Furthermore, climate change is predicted to increase the frequency of droughts and heatwaves, especially in some areas like the Mediterranean basin. Thus, the time has come for research on reptile thermal ecology to intertwine as much as possible with other aspects of their ecology, physiology and life-history. Indeed, only a more comprehensive research framework may allow us to gain deeper insight on reptile biology, and to develop more powerful predictive and managing tools to understand if and how this group of animals will react to the future climatic and environmental challenges they face. In the present work, I describe and discuss the results of six investigations aimed at reinforcing our understanding of reptile thermal ecology, water balance, and the potential interactions between these two fundamental aspects of reptilian biology. The body temperature of reptiles can be collected in many ways. One of the most common methods is to use a thermocouple to measure the cloacal temperature. Nowadays new tools, like portable infrared cameras, are significantly improving several sectors, from industry and defence to diagnostic medicine. Research on reptiles may benefit from incorporating infrared data, that allows for new and alternative ways to study thermal ecology. A first big challenge is to prove that new tools are reliable and comparable with the most common and widespread ones. Here, the first step has been to demonstrate the robust relationship between cloacal and infrared readings. The investigation then moved in the field to investigate, using infrared imaging, a poorly studied aspect of antipredator behavior of lizards. Indeed, when lizards hide from a predator, it is likely that their body temperature decreases with time. Such a decrease in body temperature may represent a cost in terms of fitness if lizards are forced to waste time thermoregulating after each predation attempt, losing the opportunity to feed or mate. In this work, it has been quantified for the first time the decrease in body temperature that lizards suffer while hiding from the predator. Another line of investigation in this project focused on the thermal ecology, water balance and performance of closely related species that coexist. Research on several groups of organisms indicates that coexisting closely related species reduce potential competition by segregating in time or space or by changing enough (character displacement) to reduce niche overlap. In thermal ecology studies, depending on the case, closely related species both show conservativeness or variability in thermal preferences. Here little differences in thermal preferences were found comparing two sister species, P. bocagei and P. guadarramae collected in the same area. Similarly, they do not differ in running performance. However, these species showed more variability in their resistance to water balance. Finally, the last two studies focused on the potential interaction between thermal ecology and water balance, as well as on their inherent variability among populations. In the first experience, dehydration impaired thermoregulation in four lizard species. Indeed, dehydrated lizards reduced their body temperature and retreated more often inside the refuges. In the second study, on the lizard Psammodromus algirus, the field survey found little variation in body temperature across populations. However, lizard body temperatures showed daily and seasonal flexibility. On the contrary, resistance to water loss increased with altitude but showed no seasonal variability. In summary, the investigations presented in this thesis allowed to (1) validated the use of Infrared cameras in thermal ecology studies on lizards, by demonstrating the robust relationship between surface and core temperature; (2) investigated lizard hiding behavior in the field and quantified for the first time the decrease in body temperature that follows after a predation attempt; (3) quantified the difference in preferred body temperature and resistance to water loss in closely related species living in sympatry; (4) compare the running performance of such closely related species and assess their thermal sensitivity; (5) understand how and to what extent dehydration impairs thermoregulation and space use in small lizards and (6) evaluate if thermal preferences and resistance to dehydration may show variation among populations across an altitudinal gradient. The contribution of the presented works may have, potentially, methodological and ecological implications. New technologies and tools, like infrared imaging, will allow answering physiological and behavioural questions that cannot be tackled with more traditional methods. The lizard hiding behavior provides an example, investigated here. Similarly, the fact that closely related species may coexist despite little physiological and whole-organisms differentiation calls for more studies on this subject. Finally, several studies, including the last two presented here, are pointing out the potential adverse interaction between thermoregulation and water balance in several lizard species. In the following years, it will be necessary to investigate further such an interplay, especially in the light of the climatic and environmental pressures that humankind is posing worldwide on lizards.
Sannolo, M. & Barroso, F.M. & Carretero, M.A. (2016) -
Podarcis bocagei and P. guadarramae are sister taxa overlapping geographically in north-western Spain and northern Portugal. These two species are often found in syntopy, although they differ in morphology and habitat use. In particular, P. guadarramae is characterized by a flat body, possibly associated with more saxicolous habits with respect to P. bocagei, a ground-dwelling species. From a physical point of view, it can be hypothesized that P. guadarramae will lose more water than P. bocagei, given the higher surface to volume ratio of its body. Alternatively, since P. bocagei is restricted to Atlantic climate while P. guadarramae may also occupy Mediterranean areas, it can be hypothesized that the second might be more resistant to water loss and prefer higher body temperature. During summer, we collected adult male lizards in Moledo, northern Portugal, where the two species are syntopic. Lizards were tested in thermal gradients and water loss was assessed using incubators with three temperature treatments (27, 32 and 37 °C). Results suggested that the two species only slightly differ in thermal preferences. However, when exposed to different thermal regimes, they lost water at different rate. In particular, while at 27 °C the two species are similar, P. guadarramae is more resistant to water loss at higher temperatures. Our experiments did not support a purely physical hypothesis. The results corroborate the hypothesis that in these two species there has been physiological divergence in resistance to water loss. In comparison with P. bocagei, P. guadarramae might live in more arid habitats and be associated with bigger rocks and more exposed surfaces when in syntopy. Ecological differences between these two species are at least partly associated with physiological resistance in water loss. In contrast, the absence of a neat difference in thermal preferences might suggest that preferred temperature is a conservative trait in these sister taxa.
Sannolo, M. & Barroso, F.M. & Carretero, M.A. (2017) -
Sister species living in sympatry offer the opportunity to study the degree of divergence in their ecological, physiological and life-history traits. It has been hypothesized that closely related species with overlapping distribution should differ in their niche to reduce competition for resources. Furthermore, the investigation of sympatric species may shed light on how they may coexist without outcompeting each other. In the present study, we assess the degree of physiological divergence in two sympatric lacertid lizards, Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis guadarramae lusitanicus. These species share a Pliocenic ancestry and overlap at a both geographical and ecological scale. We assessed their thermal preferences and water loss rates, two physiological traits considered stable across congeneric species. We found that the two species differ in both traits, with P. bocagei selecting higher temperature than P. g. lusitanicus and losing more water than the latter at and above its preferred temperature. The results also showed that for both species body size has a relevant impact on thermal and hydric traits, with bigger individuals losing proportionally less water and selecting higher temperatures. These results, combined with previous evidence, suggest that physiological mechanisms, ecological preferences and morphology probably allow these two species to overlap in their distribution while selecting different microhabitats and thus decreasing possible competition between them.
Sannolo, M. & Carretero, M.A. (2018) -
Sannolo, M. & Carretero, M.A. (2019) -
Climate change is negatively affecting many species. The increase in mean air temperature is often associated with shifts in distribution, changes in phenology, and local extinctions. Other factors that only partially correlate with air temperature, like water shortage, may also contribute to the negative consequences of climate change. Although the effect of temperature on lizards’ ecophysiology is highly studied, many lizards are also at risks of increased water loss and dehydration, which are predicted to increase under climate change. Here we aimed for the first time to explore if lacertid lizards exposed to dehydration thermoregulate less precisely than hydrated lizards and if dehydrated lizards are less active, change the daily pattern of thermoregulation and balance water balance against thermoregulation. We exposed four lizard species with differences in the thermal preference to thermal gradients with or without a source of water. We measured preferred body temperatures, daily pattern of thermoregulation, and the use of space. Dehydration negatively affected thermoregulation in all investigated species. Dehydrated lizards reduced their preferred body temperature and showed a species-specific pattern of hourly change in thermal preference. Furthermore, they more frequently used the colder parts of the gradients and spent more time hidden. Lizards experiencing dehydration may suffer a reduction in survival and fitness because of poor thermoregulation. Similarly, they may spend more time hidden, waiting for more favourable weather conditions. Such inactivity may carry ecological costs especially in those regions that undergo either short or prolonged periods of droughts.
Sannolo, M. & Civantos, E. & Martin, J. & Carretero, M.A. (2020) -
The maintenance of optimal body temperatures has profound consequences on all aspects of ectotherms life history, like fitness and performance, and has been the subject of research for decades. In contrast, for reptiles, comparatively less is known on the potential effects of water balance on physiology, ecology and behaviour. In recent years, several recent studies are pointing out the importance of studying thermoregulation and water balance within the same framework. Here, we used a Mediterranean lizard, Psammodromus algirus, to investigate how field body temperature and water loss rates may vary among populations, between sexes and along an altitudinal gradient. We found little variation in field body temperatures among populations, while within each population, field body temperature may change daily, seasonally and differ between sexes. On the contrary, water loss rates decreased with elevation and showed no seasonal trend or difference between sexes. Microclimatic data indicated that highland lizards experienced more fluctuating conditions, a factor that may explain their lower water loss rates. Other factors, like inter-population differences in ectoparasite intensity, might also contribute in explaining the observed patterns. We present here the first data for a lacertid lizard on the inter-population variability and sexual difference in water loss rates and point out that water balance may play a fundamental role in regulating lizard activity during the hottest and driest period of the year.
Sannolo, M. & Civantos, E. & Martin, J. & Carretero, M.A. (2021) -
In recent years a great deal of effort has been devoted in studying the negative consequences of climate change in reptiles. It has been shown that lizards may be particularly at risk given the current rate of temperature increase. The rise in air temperature is often associated with droughts and extreme heatwaves. Unfortunately, so far little attention has been devoted in understanding the possible consequences of water shortage on the viability of lizard natural populations. On the other hand, little is known on the response of lizards to such episodes, namely, whether variability across populations in resistance to dehydration exists is virtually unknown. Here, we focused on a generalist Mediterranean lizard, Psammodromus algirus, to study if resistance to evaporative water loss (EWL) varies across populations and if it correlates with biometric, ecological and environmental variables. The studied populations belong to the same phylogenetic lineage. We sampled, measured and tested adult individuals for EWL in standard laboratory conditions along an altitudinal gradient between Madrid city (650 m a.s.l.) and the Guadarrama mountain system (1250 m a.s.l.). Our preliminary results suggest that EWL negatively correlates with altitude, with individuals living in higher areas being the ones more resistant to dehydration. Body dimension do not increase along the altitudinal gradient. Thus, the observed variation in EWL is not explained by an increase in the volume/surface ratio. Hence, it is possible that local conditions of temperature and humidity induce patterns of local acclimation/adaptation.
Sannolo, M. & Mangiacotti, M. & Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. (2013) -
Evidences of head-body temperature differences are known for many species of lizards and snakes, but not for Italians lizards. In this study, the authors experimentally heated several specimens of the lacertid lizard Podarcis muralis, in order to investigate their ability to generate and maintain local temperature differences between the head and the body. The authors put lizards into polystyrene boxes and heated the cages with incandescent lamp. Body temperatures were measured every twenty minutes for two hours with two different tools: an infrared thermometer and an infrared camera. The authors observed a statistically significant temperature gradient from the tip of the nose, the cooler part of the body, to the trunk, the hottest area of the body; head temperature is intermediate between them. Podarcis muralis shows a polymorphic dorsal colouration and is sexually dimorphic, but neither sex nor dorsal pattern are associated to temperature differences between specimens. Stationary body temperatures were reached within forty minutes, which means that this species potentially can thermoregulate very fast in optimal temperature condition. This study shows for the first time that the lacertid lizard Podarcis muralis can generates and maintains temperature difference between the head and the body. Ecological hypotheses and implications for head-body temperature difference are discussed.
Sannolo, M. & Mangiacotti, M. & Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. (2014) -
Evidence of head–body temperature differences are known for many species of medium- to large-sized reptiles, but are scanty for small lacertid lizards. In this study, we heated 48 individuals of Podarcis muralis (19 males and 29 females) in order to investigate their ability to achieve and maintain local temperature differences between body parts. Lizards were put into polystyrene boxes and heated with incandescent lamps. Temperatures were measured with both an infrared thermometer and an infrared camera at four different body points every 20 min for 2 h. We found a statistically significant thermal gradient from the tip of the nose, the coolest part of the body, to the trunk, the warmest area, whereas the head achieved an intermediate temperature. We therefore hypothesize that P. muralis is able to physiologically regulate the heat distribution across its body. Podarcis muralis is sexually dimorphic, but neither sex nor body size are associated with temperature differences between individuals. The two measurement devices used responded differently to insulating material and to living animals, possibly indicating that infrared camera is able to detect dermal heat, while infrared thermometer detects mainly epidermal heat. This study shows for the first time that P. muralis can achieve and maintain temperature differences between the head and the body.
Sannolo, M. & Ponti, R. & Carretero, M.A. (2019) -
Most animals face predators in their daily life and have evolved antipredator strategies that promote survival while minimizing escaping costs. For example, many animals often hide into refuges when chased. Ectotherms rely on external sources of heat to raise their body temperature, and thermoregulate to keep their body temperature close to the optimal for performance. For many ectotherms living in temperate areas, it can be expectedthat they pay a cost in terms of heat loss while staying hidden. Indeed, refuges are often more thermally unsuitable than the external environment. Hence, the aim of this study was to assess if and to what extent hiding may result in a decrease of body temperature in a temperate lizard. We used infrared technology to measure the body temperature of a large-sized lizard (Timon lepidus) before individuals escaped from a simulated predation attempt to hide inside a refuge, and after they emerged back from the refuge. We quantified the change of body temperature that lizards experienced while hiding. Results show that while the decrease in body temperature covaried with the time spent hidden, it was also affected by the initial body temperature. Our key finding is that the time spent hidden depends mostly on the temperature inside the refuge. Indeed, lizards hiding in warmer refuges spent more time hidden, likely benefitting from a reduced cooling rate. This suggests that lizards perceive and evaluate the thermal quality of their refuges and integrate this information to react to predation attempts and minimize the potential thermal consequences of hiding.
Sansault, E. (2020) -
Sansault, E. (2021) -
Sansqueuc, J.P. (1989) -
Sant, S. & Gerriet, O. (2010) -
Santamaría, L. & Rodríguez-Pérez, J. & Larrinaga, A.R. & Pias, B. (2007) -
For plants dispersed by frugivores, spatial patterns of recruitment are primarily influenced by the spatial arrangement and characteristics of parent plants, the digestive characteristics, feeding behaviour and movement patterns of animal dispersers, and the structure of the habitat matrix. We used an individual-based, spatially-explicit framework to characterize seed dispersal and seedling fate in an endangered, insular plant-disperser system: the endemic shrub Daphne rodriguezii and its exclusive disperser, the endemic lizard Podarcis lilfordi. Plant recruitment kernels were chiefly determined by the disperser`s patterns of space utilization (i.e. the lizard`s displacement kernels), the position of the various plant individuals in relation to them, and habitat structure (vegetation cover vs. bare soil). In contrast to our expectations, seed gut-passage rate and its effects on germination, and lizard speed-of-movement, habitat choice and activity rhythm were of minor importance. Predicted plant recruitment kernels were strongly anisotropic and fine-grained, preventing their description using one-dimensional, frequencydistance curves. We found a general trade-off between recruitment probability and dispersal distance; however, optimal recruitment sites were not necessarily associated to sites ofmaximal adult-plant density. Conservation efforts aimed at enhancing the regeneration of endangered plant-disperser systemsmay gain in efficacy by manipulating the spatial distribution of dispersers (e.g. through the creation of refuges and feeding sites) to create areas favourable to plant recruitment.
Santamaría, L. et al (2006) -
Spatial ecology as a crossroad for animal and plant ecology. An example using spatially explicit models of endozoochorous seed dispersal. In this article, we use seed-dispersal systems to exemplify the importance of spatial ecology for the study of plant-animal interactions. The study of seed-dispersal systems has been traditionally biased towards their plant component, with a relative disregard for the role of animal behavior and physiology. It also focused on one-dimensional dispersal kernels, which involved assumptions that are generally violated in real-world systems - such as the isometry of dispersal kernels and the lack of spatial heterogeneity within them. Most of these problems can be overcome through an explicit consideration of the spatial component of seed-dispersal systems, and the use of two- and threedimensional dispersal kernels. We provide two examples of the potential benefits of this approach, spanning an extreme range of disperser size and mobility: the dispersal of Ephedra seeds by lizards (Podarcis lilfordii) at Sa Dragonera islet (Majorca, Spain) and the dual role of Asian elephants (Oliphas maximus) as dispersers of both native and invasive species in the dry tropical forests of Southern Sri Lanka.
Santamaria, S. & Enoksen, C.A. & Olesen, J.M. & Tavecchia, G. & Rotger, A. & Igual, J.M. & Traveset, A. (2019) -
Despite it is widely accepted that intrapopulation variation is fundamental to ecological and evolutionary processes, this level of information has only recently been included into network analysis of species/population interactions. When done, it has revealed non-random patterns in the distribution of trophic resources. Nestedness in resource use among individuals is the most recurrent observed pattern, often accompanied by an absence of modularity, but no previous studies examine bipartite modularity. We use network analysis to describe the diet composition of the Balearic endemic lizard Podarcis lilfordi in 2 islets at population and individual levels, based on the occurrence of food items in fecal samples. Our objectives are to 1) compare niche structure at both levels, 2) characterize niche partition using nestedness and modularity, and 3) assess how size, sex, season, and spatial location influence niche structure. At population-level niche width was wide, but narrow at the level of the individual. Both islet networks were nested, indicating similar ranking of the food preferences among individuals, but also modular, which was partially explained by seasonality. Sex and body size did not notably affect diet composition. Large niche overlap and therefore possibly relaxed competition were observed among females in one of the islets and during spring on both islets. Likewise, higher modularity in autumn suggests that higher competition could lead to specialization in both populations, because resources are usually scarce in this season. The absence of spatial location influence on niche might respond to fine-grained spatio-temporally distribution of food resources. Behavioral traits, not included in this study, could also influence resource partitioning.
Santarém, F. & Pereira, P. & Saarinen, J. & Brito, J.C. (2019) -
Evaluating flagship species and their potential for biological preservation and ecotourism development is a key issue for many audiences within the conservation and social fields. Despite several methods available to identify flagships, their application is often constrained in remote, poorly studied regions. Developments are needed in statistical and spatially-explicit approaches to assess species` traits influencing flagship appealing, to identify flagship fleets, and to map the location of flagship hotspots. Here, we developed a new method to identify flagship species in regions with knowledge gaps, using a two-stage statistical approach (ordination and clus- tering algorithms) to assess variable`s contribution to appealing and to group species sharing similar char- acteristics into flagship fleets. We then mapped areas concentrating the highest richness of flagships. Unique morphologies and behaviours, conservation status, endemicity, body size and weight, and feeding habits were the traits contributing the most to the flagship appealing. Nine flagship fleets were identified, from which two were the most suitable for conservation marketing and ecotourism promotion campaigns in Sahara-Sahel: Fleet A comprising 36 large-bodied species (18 mammals, 18 reptiles) and Fleet B including 70 small-bodied species (10 birds, six mammals, 54 reptiles). A total of 19 and 16 hotspots were identified for large-bodied and small-bodied flagships, respectively. The methodology was suitable to identify flagship species for conservation marketing and for developing ecotourism operations in the Sahara-Sahel, to independently assess which species` traits are re- levant for flagship appealing, and to organise fleets for multispecies-based marketing campaigns. The framework is scalable and replicable worldwide.
Santillo, A. & Monteforte, R. & Raucci, R. & D`Aniello, A. & Chieffi Baccari, G. (2006) -
High concentrations of free D-aspartate (D-Asp), an amino acid well known for its neuroexcitatory activity, are endogeneously present in the Harderian gland (HG) of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula. This orbital gland consists of two different parts: the medial part, which is prevalently a mucous acinar gland, and the lateral part, which is a serous tubulo-acinar gland. To determine the physiological effect of D-Asp on exocrine secretion in HG, D-Asp (2.0 micromol/g b.w.) was injected intraperitoneally into lizards. We found that highest accumulations of exogenous D-Asp in HGs occurred 15 hr after the injection. Specifically, exogenous D-Asp prevalently stimulated serous secretion from the lateral portion of the gland, where immunohistochemical analysis revealed a major accumulation. Similarly, in the medial part of the gland, highly sulfated mucosubstances were observed after D-Asp injection. Further, in both parts of the HG, the electron microscope revealed euchromatic nuclei, a prominent rough endoplasmic reticulum, as well as numerous secretory granules within the acinar cells. Thus, following D-Asp injection, a 60% increase in HG total protein was detected. In addition, exogenous D-Asp induced changes in the electrophoretic pattern of HG. In conclusion, although further investigations are still needed to clarify the molecular pathway induced by D-Asp in exocrine secretion, this study does indicate that free D-Asp plays a significant role in the secretory activity of this gland.
Santillo, A. & Rosati, L. & Prisco, M. & Chieffi, G. & Andreuccetti, P. & Falvo, S. & Fiore, M.M. di (2019) -
The purpose of the present study is to highlight the role of aromatase in the neuroendocrine control of the reproductive cycle of the male lizard Podarcis sicula during the three significant phases, i.e. the pre-reproductive, reproductive, and post-reproductive stages. Using immunohistochemical, biochemical, and hormonal tools, we have determined the localization and the activity of P450 aromatase (P450 aro) in the lizard`s brain together with the determination of hormonal profile of sex steroids, i.e. testosterone and 17β-estradiol. The present data demonstrated that the localization of P450 is shown in brain regions involved in the regulation of the reproductive behavior (medial septum, preoptic area, and hypothalamus). Its activity, as well as the intensity of the signal, is modified according to the period of reproduction, resulting in functional dynamic changes. P450 aro activity and signal intensity decrease in the pre-reproductive period and progressively increase during the reproductive stage until it reaches the maximum peak level at the post-reproductive phase. P450 aro determines a local estrogen synthesis, balancing the testosterone and estradiol levels, and therefore its role is crucial, since it plays an important role in the neuroendocrine/behavioral regulation of the reproductive processes in the male lizard P. sicula.
Santonastaso, T. & Lighten, J. & Oosterhout, C. van & Jones, K.L. & Foufopoulos, J. & Anthony, N.M. (2017) -
The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) plays a key role in disease resistance and is the most polymorphic gene region in vertebrates. Although habitat fragmentation is predicted to lead to a loss in MHC variation through drift, the impact of other evolutionary forces may counter this effect. Here we assess the impact of selection, drift, migration, and recombination on MHC class II and microsatellite variability in 14 island populations of the Aegean wall lizard Podarcis erhardii. Lizards were sampled from islands within the Cyclades (Greece) formed by rising sea levels as the last glacial maximum approximately 20,000 before present. Bathymetric data were used to determine the area and age of each island, allowing us to infer the corresponding magnitude and timing of genetic bottlenecks associated with island formation. Both MHC and microsatellite variation were positively associated with island area, supporting the hypothesis that drift governs neutral and adaptive variation in this system. However, MHC but not microsatellite variability declined significantly with island age. This discrepancy is likely due to the fact that microsatellites attain mutation-drift equilibrium more rapidly than MHC. Although we detected signals of balancing selection, recombination and migration, the effects of these evolutionary processes appeared negligible relative to drift. This study demonstrates how land bridge islands can provide novel insights into the impact of historical fragmentation on genetic diversity as well as help disentangle the effects of different evolutionary forces on neutral and adaptive diversity.
Santos, A. De Los & Nicolás, J.P. De (2008) -
Relationships among environmental patterns and population size of the smut lizard Gallotia galloti galloti Oudart, 1839 (Sauria Lacertidae) were examined in the context of longer time-scale variability on a sandy beach and adjacent environments of Southeastern Tenerife. Seasonal and yearly patterns in the population size were likewise analyzed in relation to climatic and anthropic variables. Six sampling plots (coastal, sweet tabaiba, tuff, lava, sandy lava and crater) were selected following a perpendicular transect to the sandy fringe that extends from the beach toward the volcanic interior. Pitfall trapping was conducted from 1984 to 2005, and capture–mark–recapture technique and the Jolly–Seber method were used to estimate population sizes. The highest population size estimates were shown on the sandy lava plot and the neighboring lava plot, reaching values of about 3500 individuals ha−1 during the spring. The population was active almost the whole year, with seasonal patterns of activity from March to October. Seasonal temperature and population size patterns were correlated but the ‘calima’ episodes produced some disturbance. Gallotia galloti galloti was one of the most abundant lizards of all the species studied and its population size has not remained stable over the study period, probably because of the absence of predation and competition, and because of human interference and environmental instability.
Santos, E. & Monzon-Mayor, M. & Romero-Aleman, M.M. & Yanes, C. (2008) -
We have previously described the spontaneous regeneration of retinal ganglion cell axons after optic nerve (ON) transection in the adult Gallotia galloti. As neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) is involved in neuronal differentiation, survival and synaptic plasticity, we performed a comparative immunohistochemical study of NT-3 during the ontogeny and regeneration (after 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postlesion) of the lizard visual system to reveal its distribution and changes during these events. For characterization of NT-3(+) cells, we performed double labelings using the neuronal markers HuC-D, Pax6 and parvalbumin (Parv), the microglial marker tomato lectin or Lycopersicon esculentum agglutinin (LEA), and the astroglial markers vimentin (Vim) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Subpopulations of retinal and tectal neurons were NT-3(+) from early embryonic stages to adulthood. Nerve fibers within the retinal nerve fiber layer, both plexiform layers and the retinorecipient layers in the optic tectum (OT) were also stained. In addition, NT-3(+)/GFAP(+) and NT-3(+)/Vim(+) astrocytes were detected in the ON, chiasm and optic tract in postnatal and adult lizards. At 1 month postlesion, abundant NT-3(+)/GFAP(+) astrocytes and NT-3(-)/LEA(+) microglia/macrophages were stained in the lesioned ON, whereas NT-3 became downregulated in the experimental retina and OT. Interestingly, at 9 and 12 months postlesion, the staining in the experimental retina resembled that in control animals, whereas bundles of putative regrown fibers showed a disorganized staining pattern in the OT. Altogether, we demonstrate that NT-3 is widely distributed in the lizard visual system and its changes after ON transection might be permissive for the successful axonal regrowth.
Santos, E. & Romero-Alemán, M.M. & Monzón-Mayor, M. & Yanes, C. (2013) -
The lizard Gallotia galloti shows spontaneous and slow axon regrowth through a permissive glial scar after optic nerve axotomy. Although much of the expression pattern of glial, neuronal and extracellular matrix markers have been analyzed by our group, an estimation of the cell loss in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) and the degree of visual function recovery remained unresolved. Thus, we performed a series of tests indicative of effective visual function (pupillary light reflex, accommodation, visually elicited behavior) in 18 lizards at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months post-axotomy which were then processed for immunohistochemistry for the neuronal markers SMI-31 (neurofilaments), Tuj1 (beta-III tubulin) and SV2 (synaptic vesicles) at the last timepoint. Separately, cell loss in the GCL was estimated by comparative quantitation of DAPI+ nuclei in control and 12 months experimental lizards. Additionally, 15 lizards were processed for electron microscopy to monitor relevant ultrastructural changes in the GCL, optic nerve and optic tract throughout regeneration. Hypertrophy of RGCs was persistent, morphology of the regenerated nerves varied from narrow to neuroma-like features and larger regenerated axons underwent remyelination by 9 months. The estimated cell loss in the GCL was 27% and two-third of the animals recovered the pupillary light reflex which involves the pretectum. Strikingly, visually elicited behavior involving the tectum was only restored in two specimens, presumably due to the higher complexity of this pathway. These preliminary results indicate that limited functional regeneration occurs spontaneously in the severely injured visual system of the lacertid G. galloti.
Santos, J.L. & Zagar, A. & Drasler, K. & Rato, C. & Ayres, C. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. & Salvi, D. (2019) -
The common wall lizard has been widely introduced across Europe and overseas. We investigated the origin of putatively introduced Podarcis muralis populations from two southern Europe localities: (i) Ljubljana (Slovenia), where uncommon phenotypes were observed near the railway tracks and (ii) the port of Vigo (Spain), where the species was recently found 150 km far from its previously known range. We compared cytochrome-b mtDNA sequences of lizards from these populations with published sequences across the native range. Our results support the allochthonous status and multiple, long-distance origins in both populations. In Ljubljana, results support two different origins, Serbia and Italy. In Vigo, at least two separate origins are inferred, from western and eastern France. Such results confirm that human-mediated transport is promoting biological invasion and lineage admixture in this species. Solid knowledge of the origin and invasion pathways, as well as population monitoring, is crucial for management strategies to be successful.
Santos, R. & Teodoro, A.C. & Carretero, M.A. & Sillero, N. (2016) -
Although the spatial context is expected to be a major influence in the interactions among organisms and their environment, it is commonly ignored in ecological studies. This study is part of an investigation on home ranges and their influence in the escape behaviour of Iberian lizards. Fieldwork was conducted inside a 400 m2 mesocosm, using three acclimatized adult male individuals. In order to perform analyses at this local scale, tools with high spatial accuracy are needed. A total of 3016 GPS points were recorded and processed into a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), with a pixel resolution of 2 cm. Then, 1156 aerial photos were taken and processed to create an orthophoto. A refuge map, containing possible locations for retreats was generated with supervised image classification algorithms, obtaining four classes (refuges, vegetation, bare soil and organic soil). Furthermore, 50 data-loggers were randomly placed, recording evenly through the area temperature and humidity every 15’. After a month of recording, all environmental variables were interpolated using Kriging. The study area presented an irregular elevation. The humidity varied according to the topography and the temperature presented a West-East pattern. Both variables are of paramount importance for lizard activity and performance. In a predation risk scenario, a lizard located in a temperature close to its thermal optimum will be able to escape more efficiently. Integration of such ecologically relevant elements in a spatial context exemplifies how remote sensing tools can contribute to improve inference in behavioural ecology.
Santos, R. dos (2016) -
Lizards use flight as main anti-predator behaviour, frequently escaping to a refuge. This response is well studied in terms of morphology, physiology and reproductive biology, though the spatial context is frequently ignored. The home range influence or the spatial factors of refuge selection are not completely understood. This study aims to determine the influence of Podarcis bocagei home range on its escape behaviour and how is it established when facing a new area. This study was conducted inside a 400m2 mesocosmos using 38 acclimatized adult individuals. Remote sense techniques were used in order to map the mesocosm, which resulted in an orthophoto, temperature and humidity map and refuge map. The individuals were approached with a constant pace and manually marked three georeferenced points in the orthophoto (predator location, starting and final escape locations). We estimated home-ranges using a 90% Characteristic Hull Polygon. This study revealed the home range is gradually established. At first, the individuals roam randomly through the mesocosm in an exploratory phase and then established a home range that decreased with the time. About the escape outside the home range, 25% of the escapes ended outside the home-range, although keeping short distance (about 50 cm). Lizards may temporally flee outside home range limits, but keeping a short distance allowing them to easily return, and hence, ensuring the mid-term persistence of their home ranges.
Santos, T. & Diaz, J.A. & Perés-Tris, J. & Corboell, R. & Telleria, J.L. (2008) -
Organisms often face a higher risk of local extinction in fragmented than in continuous habitat. However, whether populations are affected by reduced size and connectivity of the habitat or by changes in habitat quality in fragmented landscapes remains poorly investigated. We studied the regional distribution and microhabitat selection of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus in a fragmented landscape where the existence of deciduous and evergreen woodlands brought about variation in habitat quality. Lizards never occupied any fragment smaller than 0.5 ha. However, above that limit fragment size no longer predicted lizard occurrence, which was explained by woodland type instead, with lizards being more frequently found in deciduous than in evergreen woodlands. Lizards selected microhabitats that had structural features favouring thermoregulation, foraging and predator avoidance, and we identified better conditions for thermoregulation and food acquisition in deciduous than in evergreen woodlands. Our results support the idea that variation in habitat quality can sometimes override the effect of habitat fragmentation on animal populations. We consider the implications of our study for the conservation of Mediterranean lizards, discussing our results in a broader context framed by previous studies conducted in nearby areas.
Santos, T. & Pérez-Tris, J. & Carbonelli, R. & Telleria, J.L. & Diaz, J.A. (2009) -
Ex situ conservation of animal populations may benefit from captive-breeding programmes, but these are criticised because they are assumed to be difficult, time-consuming and expensive, while they do not guarantee success. However, such assumptions remain untested in most organisms; for example, introductions could be very useful for recovering populations of small-sized species with short generation time, no learned behaviours, and ease to rear in captivity. Here, we document an easy, cheap and successful reintroduction programme of the lacertid lizard Psammodromus algirus. Two captive-bred cohorts (178 juveniles in 2001 and 187 in 2002) were released in four woodland fragments (0.9–5.2 ha) at two localities (B and V); B housed a stable lizard population whereas V apparently lacked a viable population of lizards. We monitored introduced and native lizards during 2002 and 2003, and carried out a corroborative searching in 2006 which confirmed the existence of a lizard population at site V. Introduced lizards had higher activity and dispersed more frequently among woodland fragments than native ones. Survivorship and growth rates were similar for both groups, but introduced juveniles were about 25% larger than native ones, due to both early hatching and better rearing conditions. The whole procedure was easily implemented in our Faculty facilities (mean hatching and hatchling survival rates of 0.90 and 0.87), and cost less than 20,000 € (excluding salaries). Therefore, similar programmes may be of wide application in small animals and of practical importance for species with a meta-population structure living in fragmented landscapes.
Santos, X. & Badiane, A. & Matos, C. (2015) -
Changes in habitat structure constitute a major factor explaining responses of reptiles to fire. However, few studies have examined habitat factors that covary with fire-history variables to explain reptile responses. We hypothesise that more complex habitats should support richer reptile communities, and that species-specific relative abundance should be related to particular habitat features. From spring 2012–2014, twenty-five transects were surveyed in the Albera Region (north-east Iberia). The vegetation structure was measured and the extent of habitat types in a 1000-m buffer around each transect calculated. Reptile-community metrics (species richness and reptile abundance) were related to fire history, vegetation structure, and habitat types, using generalized additive models. These metrics correlated with habitat-structure variables but not with fire history. The number of species increased with more complex habitats but decreased with pine-plantation abundance in the 1000-m buffer. We found contrasting responses among reptiles in terms of time since fire and those responses differed according to vegetation variables and habitat types. An unplanned fire in August 2012 provided the opportunity to compare reptile abundance values between pre-fire and the short term (1–2 years) after the fire. Most species exhibited a negative short-term response to the 2012 fire except Tarentola mauritanica, a gecko that inhabits large rocks, as opposed to other ground-dwelling species. In the reptiles studied, contrasting responses to time since fire are consistent with the habitat–accommodation model of succession. These differences are linked to specific microhabitat preferences and suggest that functional traits can be used to predict speciesspecific responses to fire.
Santos, X. & Belliura, J. & Goncalves, J. & Pausas, J.G. (2021) -
Extreme climate events, together with anthropogenic land use changes, have led to the rise of megafires (i.e., fires at the top of the frequency size distribution) in many world regions. Megafires imply that the centre of the burned area is far from the unburnt; thus, recolonization may be critical for species with low dispersal abilities such as reptiles. We aimed to evaluate the effect of megafires on a reptile community, exploring to what extent reptile responses are spatially shaped by the distance to the unburned area. We examined the short-term spatiotemporal response of a Mediterranean reptile community after two megafires (>20.000 hectares) occurred in summer 2012 at eastern Spain. Reptiles were sampled during four years after the fire in burnt plots located at different distances from the fire perimeter (edge, middle, and centre), and in adjacent unburnt plots. Reptile responses were modelled with fire history, as well as climate and remotely sensed environmental variables. In total we recorded 522 reptiles from 12 species (11 species in the burnt plots and 9 in the unburnt plots). Reptile abundance decreased in burnt compared to unburnt plots. The community composition and species richness did not vary either spatially (unburnt and burnt plots) or temporally (along the four years). The persistence of reptiles in the burnt area supports their resilience to megafires. The most common lizard species was Psammodromus algirus; both adults and juveniles were found in all unburnt and burnt plots. This species showed lower abundances in burnt areas compared to the unburnt and a slow short-term abundance recovery. The lizard P. edwarsianus was much less abundant and showed a tendency to increase its abundance at burnt plots compared to unburnt plots. Within the megafire area, P. algirus and P. edwarsianus abundances correlated with the thermal-moisture environment and vegetation recovery regardless of the distance from the fire edge. These results indicate the absence of a short-term reptile recolonization from the unburnt zone, demonstrating that reptiles are resilient (in-situ persistence) to megafires when environmental conditions are favourable.
Santos, X. & Carretero, M.A. (2015) -
Santos, X. & Cheylan, M. (2013) -
Wildfires are common disturbances that have a major impact on ecosystems. Recent decades have seen an increase in fire frequency and extension due to the combined effects of climate change and land-use history. We studied the taxonomic and functional response of a reptile assemblage to repeated fires in southern France to understand shifts in dominant species and diversity, as well as the mechanisms that underlie responses according to functional traits of species. In the spring of 2010, we sampled reptiles in areas with three types of fire regime: unburned, burned once (2003) and burned 4–5 times (last fire in 2003) along a fire history of 51-years period. With this field sampling design, we examined the intermediate disturbance hypothesis and the habitat accommodation model of succession as methods to predict reptile responses to natural fire regimes. We also compared habitat structure at the study area between 1944 and 2006 to certify that repeated-fire regimes have modified the habitat for reptiles. The comparison of the habitat structure between both periods demonstrated that repeated-fire regimes modified the landscape from a homogeneous sparse forest to a contrasted heterogeneous mixture of scrubland and dense forest. We found a loss of reptile diversity after one and multiple fires, a result that contradicts the intermediate disturbance hypothesis. Reptile composition differed among the three fire regimes: there was a shift in dominant species and a reduction of beta diversity related to an increase in the number of fires. We also observed a functional response to repeated fires, with an increased frequency of insectivorous reptiles, which live in open areas, are specialists in their ecological niche, and have a short lifespan. These results suggest that reptile replacement according to fire regime accounts for a habitat accommodation model following particular traits of species. Our study indicated that areas subjected to repeated fires have a more strictly Mediterranean reptile assemblage than unburned areas, due to the ability of Mediterranean species to survive thermal environments in open (burned) areas. At a regional scale, changes in dominant species between unburned and repeatedly burned areas might be an argument for maintaining a patchwork of areas burned at variable intervals. However, the increase in fire frequency and extension suggests a future scenario of extinction for species negatively impacted by fire, such as the endangered Hermann’s tortoise Testudo hermanni, for which the study area is home to one of the last native populations in the western Mediterranean.
Santos, X. & Poquet, M. (2010) -
Wildfires are recognized as natural disturbances that have shaped landscape structure and ecosystem composition in many regions of the world. As ectotherms, many Mediterranean reptiles are expected to benefit from the thermal quality of open areas created by fires. However, not all the reptile species respond positively to this pattern. We have explored the response to fire of a Mediterranean reptile community in a protected area of the northeastern Iberian Peninsula. We visually searched for reptiles at 102 sites, including unburnt, recently burnt (2003), and old burnt (1985-1986) localities. The number of reptiles and species richness was higher at burnt sites, and both were related to several variables of the habitat structure. Accordingly, between the two most common species in recently burnt sites, Podarcis hispanica declined in old fire habitats whereas Psammodromus algirus did not. Snakes did not differ between burnt and unburnt areas, although the ambush predator viper Vipera latastei was found more frequently in unburnt habitats. Our results imply that there are different succession trajectories for Mediterranean reptile species according to their habitat preferences, life history traits, and dietary specialization. The study area has been drastically human-altered in the last 100 years by agriculture, pine reforestation, agricultural abandonment, and wildfires. These land use changes drastically alter the vegetation cover, favoring some reptiles and damaging others, and finally can promote local extinctions of sensitive species to habitat shifts.
Sanuy Castells, D. (2008) -
Vertebrate fauna of the protected semiarid zones in the south west of Catalonia.— This work describes fauna and habitats within the semiarid zones in the south west of Catalonia, bordering with Monegros. The fauna in the Peins area is studied and an approximation of the vertebrate species therein is given. As parts of the area surveyed are legally protected, their future is considered stable. The eight areas studied include steppe zones, chalky mountain ranges bordering the pre-Pyrenean region, Pinus halepensis forest and a dam.
Sanuy Castells, D. (2009) -
Under the so-called PEIN (Natural Interest Sites Plan, declared by the catalan government) a in the south of the of Lleida demarcation (NE Iberian Peninsula) the herpetological species observed in recent years are shown. There are a total of 8 protected areas sampled, all belonging to the semi-arid continental scrubland region, below the first slopes of the pre-Pyrenees. In one of these areas there is a wetland with a reservoir. For all the areas sampled the data of localization, in UTM 10x10 sq. Km, and date of observation of the different species is given. A total of 23 species have been found in the different habitats visited.
Sanz-Azkue, I. (2009) -
Sanz-Azkue, I. & Garcia-Etxebarria, K. & Gosá, A. & Rubio, X. & Jugo, B.M. (2006) -
Sanz-Azkue, I. & Garcia-Extebarria, K. & Gosá, A. & Rubio, X. & Jugo, B.M. (2006) -
Sanz-Azkue, I. & Gosá, A. & Garcia-Etxebarria, K. (2005) -
Sanz-Azkue, I. & Gosá, A. & Martinez-Silvestre, A. (2021) -
Sanz-Azkue, KI. & Etxeberria-Aranaz, I. & Tellechea-Iraola, S. (2021) -
Sanz, J. & Ruiz, E. & Fernandez, J.L. & Blesa, E. & Sanz, I. & Pinzolas, J.A. & Ibanez, M. (2001) -
Sanz, T. & Arriola, J.A. (2012) -
Sanz, T. & Novo, M. (2012) -
Saoudi, M. & Nacer, A. & Bouam, I. & Khelfaoui, F. & Saadi, O. (2017) -
Although Timon pater is among the largest species of lacertids found throughout North Africa, mainly in Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia, studies examining the ecology of this lizard remain rare. In this paper we describe the daily activity patterns, biometry and diet of T. pater in a mountain area during its period of maximum activity. We carried out the field study in the southern slope of Mount Chélia in the middle of the Aurès Massif, north-eastern Algeria. In order to analyse the daily activity patterns we performed surveys along 4 000 m long random transects. To obtain biometrical measurements we captured and measured 20 adults with a digital calliper. We obtained diet data by analysing 17 extracted stomach contents. The daily activity patterns of T. pater were similar during the summer periods (early and late summer), and no variation in activity was detected. Adult males were slightly larger and heavier than adult females and their heads were longer, larger and thicker than females’ heads. T. pater primarily consumed Coleopterans, but diet composition was noticeably different between the two summer periods. There were no sexual differences in dietary preferences.
Sapovaliv, P. (1980) -
Sapovaliv, P. (1987) -
A local population of Green Lizard, Lacerta v. viridis, from Middle Bohemia (Czechoslovakia) has been investigated both morphometrically and morphologically. Comparing this population with data on lizards from northwestern Europe, some minor differences have been found which, however, do not deviate from the variation range of character of the nominale subspecies. In addition to obtained results, many imperfections and arrors in so far published comparative papers have been evidenced. Further, comparing two isolated subpopulations of the population in question with published data, the presence of genetic drift has been found. This fact, i.e. the possibility of the occurrence of genetic drift in local subpopulations should always be considered in the conservation practice by introducing new individuals and by founding new populations of reptiles.
Šapovaliv, P. (1988) -
Šapovaliv, P. (1995) -
Šapovaliv, P. (1996) -
Sardin, J.-P. (2002) -
Sargsyan, A. & Simonyan, A. & Hovhannisyan, G. & Arakelyan, M. & Aroutiouni, R. (2018) -
Widely distributed in Armenia bisexual and parthenogenetic species of Darevskia rock lizards have the potential to be considered as bioindicators of the effects of environmental pollutants. Juvenile and adult bisexual D. raddei and parthenogenetic D. armeniaca lizards were sampled from four locations with different levels of soil contamination. The comet assay, micronucleus (MN) test and global DNA methylation detection were applied in peripheral blood erythrocytes to assess genotoxic and epigenetic effects of pollutants. The concentrations of heavy metals were analyzed in the corresponding soil samples. In polluted areas levels of DNA damage were significantly higher and levels of global DNA methylation were significantly lower in both species than in reference sites. The levels of comets and global DNA methylation decreased with age but did not depend on sex. MN test did not show significant differences among localities or between sexes and age groups. The positive correlation between DNA damage and contents of Cr, Cu, As and Mo and negative correlation between global DNA methylation and contents of Cr, Cu, Zn, Mo and Pb were shown for D. raddei. The positive correlations between DNA damage and contents of Cr, Zn and Pb and negative correlations between global DNA methylation and contents of Cr, Zn, Mo, Cd and Pb were revealed for D. armeniaca. The correlation results for some metals are different in juveniles and adults. D. armeniaca showed higher sensitivity toward environmental pollution than D. raddei in their common habitat. Genetic homogeneity of parthenogenetic lizards permits to evaluate the effects of environmental pollutants independently from inter-individual genetic variation. In conclusion, the current study suggests that DNA damage and global DNA methylation may be applied to Darevskia lizards as a sentinel organism for assessing the effects of environmental pollutants.
Sargsyan, N.H. & Danielyan, F.D. & Vardanyan, L.K. (2014) -
Sargsyan, N.H. & Harutyunyan, T.K. (2012) -
Parasitological studies of 6 species of parthenogenetic and bisexual rock lizards of Armenia were carried out. The Helminthic and blood-parasite infections of these lizards were compared.
Սարգսյան, Ն.Հ. & Հարությունյան, Թ.Կ. (2012) -
Կատարվել են Հայաստանի կուսածին և երկսեռ 6 տեսակի ժայռային մողեսների մակաբուծաբանական ուսումնասիրություններ: Համեմատվել են ուսումնասիրված մողեսների վարակվածությունը հելմինթներով և արյան մակաբույծներով: Проводились паразитологические исследования 6 видов партеногенетических и бисексуальных скальных ящериц Армении. Сравнивалась зараженность исследованных рептилий гельминтами и кровепаразитами.
Sargsyan, N.H. & Vardanyan, L.K. (2011) -
Endoparasites of 10 reptiles species were studied. Two classes of helminths (Nematoda and Cestoda) were found. Extensity and intensity of infection were investigated.
Սարգսյան, Ն.Հ. & Վարդանյան, Լ.Կ. (2011) -
Ուսումնասիրվել են 10 տեսակի սողունների ներքին մակաբույծները: Հայտնաբերվել են 2 դասի պատկանող հելմինթներ` կլոր (Nematoda) և ժապավենաձև (Cestoda) որդեր: Հետազոտվել է վարակվածության էքստենսիվությունը և ինտենսիվությունը: Исследованы эндопаразиты десяти видов рептилий. Обнаруженные гельминты принадлежат к двум классам: круглые (Nematoda) и ленточные (Cestoda) черви. Изучалась также степень зараженности этими гельминтами (экстенсивность) и частота их встречаемости (интенсивность).
Sarhan, M. & Saber, I. & El-Shehaby, M. & Saber, S. (2015) -
Acanthodactylus is a genus of lacertid lizard, commonly referred to as fringe-fingered lizards or fringe-toed lizards. The systematics of the genus Acanthodactylus was classically based on external morphological traits, osteological characters and morphology of the hemipenes. In this study, partial sequences of 18S rRNA gene were used to estimate the relationships among three lacertide species from Egypt: Acanthodactylus boskianus, Acanthodactylus scutellatus and Acanthodactylus longipes. These data were used together with morphological information, to evaluate the relationships among these three species. DNA was extracted from the collected specimens, 988 bp fragment of 18S rRNA was amplified using universal primers and sequenced. The obtained sequences were analyzed and a phylogenetic tree was constructed. Results of analysis revealed that A. scutellatus and A. longipes form a very well supported clade with 86% bootstrap. A. boskianus was found to constitute a separate clade. The resultant tree based on DNA sequence data was similar to that produced from a differentially weighted data set of morphological characters. In conclusion, the 18S rRNA gene sequence seems to be a good marker for phylogenetic analysis of Acanthodactylus species.
Sarikaya, B. & Yildiz, M.Z. & Sezen, G. (2017) -
In this study, it is aimed to determine the amphibians and reptiles species of Adana province. This study was conducted in September and October 2013 and February, March, May, April, and June 2014. As a results of the study, 4 anuran species belonging to three families, 2 urodelian species belonging to one family, 6 tortoise species belonging to five families, 16 lizards species belonging to 6 families, one worm lizard, 19 snakes species belonging to 4 families, with a total of 48 different species of amphibians and reptiles, showing distribution in Adana, were identified. However, the species of Neurergus strauchii, Pelobates syriacus, Anatololacerta pelasgiana, Darevskia valentini, Eirenis decemlineatus, E. eiselti, E. lineomaculatus, Rhynchocalamus melanocephalus, which were recorded in the literature previously, could not be found. With the field survey and literature records, 56 amphibian and reptile species belonging to 21 families were determined in Adana province. In addition, chorotype information of the species and distribution localities in Adana were given in detail.
Sas-Kovács, E.H. & Sas-Kovács, I. (2020) -
On September 2020 we encountered a male of Lacerta viridisthat upon grabbing had displayed caudal movements typicalto a shed tail, but without actually detaching the tail from its body. Tail loss is a common escape behaviour in lizards, applied when benefits exceed costs.We do not know if tail loss mimicking was a type of antipredator behaviour adopted by the lizard or an unsuccessful try to shed itstail, thus further studies are recommended in this sense.
Underground hiding places are important shelters for many species. After surveying 427 burrows made by wolf spiders Geolycosa vultuosa in Carei Plain in north-western Romania, in 10 of them we identified individuals of Podarcis tauricus. Lizards use the lycosid burrows as retreat sites, but they seem to be limited to those already abandoned by spiders. Nevertheless, these might represent valuable alternative refuges from harsh environmental conditions or predators.
Sas-Kovacs, I. & Sas-Kovacs, E.-H. (2014) -
In this paper we present the identification of an introduced population of Podarcis muralis, located outside of its distribution area in Romania, in the Crişul Repede (Sebes-Körös) Plain, in north-western Romania. In total, based on the individual colour, we identified 58 common wall lizard adults. We also captured 23 juveniles. The area occupied by the individuals of Podarcis muralis was estimated to be approximately 950 square meters. The identified common wall lizard population can be considered as a selfsustaining population rather than a sink population, with probability of dispersion.
Sas, I. & Covaciu-Marcov, S. & Cicort-Lucaciu, A. & Kovács, E.-H. & Peter, V. (2004) -
We studied 237 samples of Zootoca vivipara from two region of Occidental Carpathians (64 samples from Semenic Mounrtains and 173 samples from Bihor Mountains). We analyzed characteristics of the pholydosys, chromatic and biometric characteristics. After we calculated the ratio of each investigated character and the variation quotient. Besides the existences of a special inter- population variability, we noticed the existence of a large intra-population variability. According to almost all the investigated characteristics in the analyzed Zootoca vivipara populations are heterogeneous or little heterogeneous.
Sattorov, T. & Ergashev, U. & Najmudinov, T. (2023) -
Sau, S. & Smolinsky, R. & Martinkova, N. (2023) -
Species color and color pattern vary geographically contributing to environmental tolerance of the species to the fluctuating climate. In a constantly changing environment, the population remains polymorphic, when individuals that are not acclimated to the current environment can survive adverse time periods. Factors influencing color morph frequencies in populations affect spatial variation through local adaptation, which is in turn linked to large-scale environmental gradients. The influence of environmental factors has not been adequately studied in many polymorphic organisms where the influence of sexual selection on the persistence of polymorphisms is widely recognized. We hypothesized that different color morphs of sand lizard are distributed throughout the Palearctic depending on different environmental conditions. The goal of this study was to examine if the range of morph composition in a color polymorphic lizard can be explained by geographic and climatic variation in the Palearctic. We used publicly available data on sand lizard occurrence from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility and environmental variables from WorldClim and SEDAC databases. We categorized sand lizards’ photos to 10 discrete color morphs based on color and color pattern variation. We predicted the color morph distribution using maximum entropy models. We found that variations in morph distributions were mostly related to temperature seasonality, precipitation, elevation, and anthropogenic activities. Our findings support the relationship between environmental conditions and color morph distribution, implying that environmental selection acts differently on color morphs, most likely in conjunction with sexual selection.
Sauer, F. (1989) -
Sauerzopf, F. (1956) -
Sauvage, H.-E. (1884) -
Säve-Söderbergh, G. (1946) -
Saveliev, S.S. & Bulakhova, N.A. & Kuranova, V.N. (2006) -
From 2001 to 2005 the main reproductive characteristics of 180 specimens of Lacerta agilis and 282 specimens of Zootoca vivipara were studied using common zoological, histological, cytological and immunohystochemical methods. The maximum duration of the activity period of both species is about 4.5 months per year. Emergency from hibernation depends on the course of spring, biotope, age and sex of the lizards. Males of both species emerge from hibernation 10-15 days earlier than females. The emergency from hibernation of the fi rst breeding males and females of L. agilis and Z. vivipara occur simultaneous with the older individuals of the same sex. However, spermatogenesis, vitellogenesis, laying of eggs in L. agilis or birth of young in Z. vivipara occur in 1-3 weeks later than at older specimens. In both species, the reproductively active part of the populations mainly included specimens after their third time of overwintering, whereas only a small portion reproduced after a second time of hibernation. Spermatogenesis in both species could be observed from beginning of May until mid of June. Testicles of both species reach maximal sizes at the moment of the appearance of the spermatozoa (beginning of May) and have minimum size in mid of summer. In both species, all mature females of a population took part in reproduction. Fecundity of females is correlated with snout-vent length. The phenomenon of long-term spermatozoid deposition in female oviducts is confi rmed.
Savona-Ventura, C. (1974) -
Savona-Ventura, C. (1983) -
Savona-Ventura, C. (2001) -
The Maltese-Pelagian area is characterised by an endemic species of Wall Lizard - Podarcis filfolensis. This has differentiated into various subspecies on the various islands and rocks of the region including ssp. filfolensis on Filfola, laurentiimuelleri of Lampione and Linosa, generalensis of Fungus Rock, kieselbachi of St. Paul`s Islands, maltensis of Malta and Gozo and possibly Comino, and an unnamed form from Cominotto. The taxonomical status of the species and its possible origins from Podarcis sicula are reviewed in the light of the geological movements which occurred in the Central Mediterranean during the Pleistocene. The colour differences between the various subspecies are reviewed and four degrees of melanism are proposed.
Savvides, P. & Georgiou, E. & Pafilis, P. & Sfenthourakis, S. (2019) -
Environmental factors may affect animal performance in diverse ways, even among different populations of a single species. Here, we assess the impact of substrate type on the sprint performance (maximum speed and acceleration) of Schreiber’s fringe-fingered lizard (Acanthodactylus schreiberi). This species is a skillful runner that also bears micro spike-like protruding scales on its toepads (toe fringes), an adaptation for locomotion on sand. We worked with three populations living in habitats that differ in substrate type (sand, soil and rock). We measured sprint performance using a race-track with custom substrate platforms replicating the different substrate types. We formulated two hypotheses: first, we anticipated that the three populations would differ in their sprint performance due to the differences in substrate type; second, we expected that each population would perform better on its home substrate. Our results generally refuted the hypothesis that sprint performance would differ on different substrate types. Our results suggest that there is a restricted effect of substrate type on locomotion and indicate a multifactor interplay among alternative underlying parameters.
Savvides, P. & Poliviou, V. & Stavrou, M. & Sfenthourakis, S. & Pafilis, P. (2018) -
Various factors may alter anti-predatory responses among conspecifics. Here we assess some of these factors using three populations of a Mediterranean lizard (Acanthodactylus schreiberi) in Cyprus that differ in their habitat type, predator diversity and population density. We expected that predation would affect flight initiation distance (FID; the approach distance allowed to an observer before the lizard flees), escape distance (ED; the distance covered by the lizard from the point an escape attempt starts to the first place the lizard stops) and tail autotomy (autotomy rates, economy of autotomy, post-autotomy tail movement). We also predicted that juveniles, being more exposed to predators, would be more effective in their defensive responses. Our findings suggest that predation and population density appear to be associated with most autotomy traits but were not associated with FID and ED, which are better explained by refuge availability. The only ontogenetic difference was detected in the economy of autotomy: juveniles are more prone to autotomise, possibly because they do not experience such high costs as tailless adult individuals. Our results suggest that anti-predatory responses are influenced by a variety of factors. Unravelling the compound effects of all the factors involved should be the focus of future research.
Savvides, P. & Polyviou, V. & Sfenthourrakis, S. & Pafilis, P. (2018) -
Savvides, P. & Stavrou, M. & Pafilis, P. & Sfenthourakis, S. (2017) -
Running is essential in all terrestrial animals mainly for finding food and mates and escaping from predators. Lizards employ running in all their everyday functions, among which defense stands out. Besides flight, tail autotomy is another very common antipredatory strategy within most lizard families. The impact of tail loss to sprint performance seems to be species dependent. In some lizard species, tail shedding reduces sprint speed, in other species, increases it, and, in a few species, speed is not affected at all. Here, we aimed to clarify the effect of tail autotomy on the sprint performance of a cursorial lizard with particular adaptations for running, such as bipedalism and spike-like protruding scales (fringes) on the toepads that allow high speed on sandy substrates. We hypothesized that individuals that performed bipedalism, and have more and larger fringes, would achieve higher sprint performance. We also anticipated that tail shedding would affect sprint speed (though we were not able to define in what way because of the unpredictable effects that tail loss has on different species). According to our results, individuals that ran bipedally were faster; limb length and fringe size had limited effects on sprint performance whereas tail autotomy affected quadrupedal running only in females. Nonetheless, tail loss significantly affected bipedalism: the ability for running on hindlimbs was completely lost in all adult individuals and in 72.3% of juveniles.
Sayer, P. (1953) -
Scalera, R. & Capula, M. & Fornasari, L. & Zava, B. & Bombi, P. & Mariottini, P. & Bologna, M.A. (2004) -
Podarcis filfolensis is a lacertid lizard endemie to the Maltese and Pelagian archipelagos (Channel of Sicily). In Italy, this species occurs on Linosa and Lampione islands only, where the populations are referred to the endemic ssp. laurentiimuelleri. The Linosa population was studied using capture/recapture methods during two sampling seasons (1993, 2001), in order to analyse various ecological parameters and to assess habitat distribution and overall conservation status. A clear preference to xeric Mediterranean habitats dominated by Pistacia lentiscus was seen. The lizard density of the whole Linosa population, estimated by various methods, is extremely high. Molecular analyses (partial sequencing of mitochondria! tRNAphe and 12S rDNA genes) and electrophoretic analysis of 26 presumptive gene loci were also carried out on samples representing the three P. filfolensis populations from Malta, Filfola and Linosa islands. Both molecular and allozyme data indicate that the populations of the Maltese Archipelago (Malta and Filfola) are closely related to each other, and that these populations are genetically relatively differentiated from the Linosa population. High levels of genetic variability characterise the latter population. Recent observations of the species on Lampione Islet indicate that it is locally widespread and abundant Even though P. filfolensis does not seem to be threatened on either Linosa or Lampione, the populations occurring on these islands need to be regularly monitored as island populations are known to be more susceptible to change and extinction than mainland ones.
Scali, S. & Manfredi, M. & Guidali, F. (2001) -
A survey on the importance of Lacerta bilineata as host of Ixodes ricinus was conducted in Northern Italy over a three-year period. A total of 202 western green lizards were captured and a total of 2349 ticks were collected. All ticks were identified as I. ricinus; 53.2% and 46.7% were at the larval and nymphal stages, respectively. Tick number and prevalence were higher in males than in females, especially from April to June during the host breeding period. The level of tick infestation increased with lizard age and size. The number of ticks collected on adult lizards peaked in June and in August. Infestation levels appear to be related to lizard activity patterns and behaviour. Tick number and prevalence also varied in relation to host habitat, infestation being higher in lizards from areas with hard vegetation cover.
Scali, S. & Mangiacotti, M. & Sacchi, R. & Coladonato, A.J. & Falaschi, M. & Saviano, L. & Rampoldi, M.G. & Crozi, M. & Perotti, C. & Zucca, F. & Gozzo, E. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2020) -
Close encounters of the three morphs: the role of color on aggression in a polymorphic lizard. -- Color polymorphism is a common phenomenon under genetic control, and the generation and maintenance of morphs can affect speciation/extinction rates. Colours are used in intraspecific communication to give information about alternative strategies and can avoid or decrease unwanted fighting among morphs. This way, competition and aggression among colour morphs could contribute to polymorphism maintenance. This could cause an uneven spatial distribution of individuals of different morphs in a population because the frequency of each morph establishes the intensity of the competition and the fitness of each male. We studied the polymorphic lacertid Podarcis muralis to assess if aggression varies among morphs under two contrasting hypotheses: a heteromorphic vs. a homomorphic aggression. We manipulated ventral colours and used laboratory mirror tests to measure aggression, then we verified the consistency of results analysing the spatial distribution of all morphs in a wild population. Both the experiments confirmed that aggressive behaviours are more common between homomorphic individuals than between heteromorphic ones. We believe that alternative behavioural strategies could minimize risks and costs of fighting and could facilitate the stable coexistence of the different phenotypes reducing competition. A bias in aggression gives an advantage to the rarer morph, which would suffer less harassment by common morphs, thus obtaining a fitness advantage. This process would be negativelyfrequency-dependent and would stabilize polymorphism, possibly contributing to sympatric speciation.
Color polymorphism is genetically controlled and the process generating and maintaining morphs can affect speciation and/or extinction rates. Competition and aggression among morphs can contribute to polymorphism maintenance and color badges are useful signals in intraspecific communication, because they convey information about alternative strategies and avoid unnecessary conflicts. This could lead to an uneven spatial distribution of morphs in a population, because the local frequency of each morph establishes the intensity of the competition in that neighborhood, and then the fitness of each male. We used a polymorphic lizard, Podarcis muralis, to assess if aggression varies among morphs under two contrasting hypotheses: a heteromorphic vs. a homomorphic aggression. We used laboratory mirror tests after lizard color manipulation and we verified the results consistency with the analysis of the spatial distribution of morphs in a wild population. Both the experiments confirmed that aggression is morph-specific and notably homomorphic. The adoption of behavioral alternative strategies that minimize risks and costs of unwanted conflicts could facilitate the stable coexistence of the phenotypes and reduce the resource competition. A bias in aggression to like-coloured males would advantage rarer morph, which would suffer less harassment by common morphs and obtain a fitness advantage. This process would be negatively-frequency-dependent and would stabilize polymorphism in the populations, possibly leading to sympatric speciation.
Scali, S. & Mangiacotti, M. & Sannolo, M. & Zucchi, C. & Pavesi, M. & Gentilli, A. / Sacchi, R. (2014) -
Feeding habits of lacertids have been often studied, but researches about diet correlation with chromatic polymorphism are still scanty. Furthermore, information about trophic differences among contrasting habitats is lacking. the aim of our research is the comparative analysis of the diet of seven populations of Podarcis muralis from northern Italy, each inhabiting areas with different anthropic pressures (five farms, one urban site and one natural site) and expressing a different degree of chromatic polymorphism. We analyzed 322 fecal pellets including 1656 prey items. Hymenoptera were the most common prey in the overall sample, followed by Hemiptera, Coleoptera and Arachnida, but the relative preference order changed when sites were analyzed separately. the site with the lower diversity was the urban one but, surprisingly, the most diverse seem to be some farms. the among sites niche overlap index was very variable, but it was not correlated with their geographic distance. No difference between males and females was observed. On the other hand, diet composition is correlated with morphs frequencies, highlighting different feeding habits based on ventral color. this result was confirmed by the compositional analysis performed separately for each morph, which demonstrated a different use of prey categories by white, yellow and red individuals. the minimum sample size to obtain reliable diet estimations was calculated separately for each site using the rarefaction analysis and ranged from 8, for one farm, to 24, for the most natural site. this study confirmed the trophic plasticity of the common wall lizard, and has demonstrated for the first time the occurrence of ecological differences among morphs not correlated with reproductive strategies.
Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Azzusi, M. & Daverio, S. & Oppedisano, T. & Mangiacotti, M. (2011) -
Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Azzusi, M. & Daverio, S. & Oppedisano, T. & Mangiacotti, M. (2013) -
Colour polymorphism is a widespread phenomenon among reptiles and is often associated with alternative physiological and behavioural strategies, including dispersal and movement patterns. To test the homing ability of Podarcis muralis and look for morph-specific responses, we conducted a translocation experiment in two areas of Northern Italy during 2009 and 2010. The first study area was a wall surrounding a city park with a linear and simplified habitat structure; the second one was an archaeological park in a natural area, including stone walls remains, grasses and woods. Lizards of both sexes (203 and 288 for site, respectively) were translocated at 50–200 m distances using cloth bags to block lizard sight. Podarcis muralis were able to return home as 56.7% of translocated individuals in the first site and 35.1% of translocated individuals in the second site successfully returned to their home range. The homing ability decreased with increasing distances, whereas body size positively affected homing behaviour, probably depending on the territoriality of adult lizards. More interestingly, homing performance differed among colour morphs, as yellow lizards of both sexes had significantly better homing skill than other morphs.
Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Falaschi, M. & Coladonato, A.J. & Pozzi, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Mangiacotti, M. (2019) -
Disentangling the effects of single releasers in animal communication is a demanding task because a releaser often consists of a combination of different key stimuli. Territorial communication in reptiles usually depends on visual, chemical, and acoustic stimuli, but the role of each of them depends on phylogeny. Lacertids are modern lizards that rely mainly on chemical cues for their communication, but they also use aggressive displays based on visual recognition. We experimentally tested the visual stimuli that release an aggressive response in the males of a typical lacertid, the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), testing the effects of silicone models and mirrored images in captivity. The response to models and control (a blank sheet) was not significantly different and these stimuli did not release any aggressive behaviour. On the contrary, the reflected image in a mirror caused overt aggression (i.e., bites against it) in 63% of tested individuals. The results clearly demonstrate the role of visual stimuli in territorial communication, but only as a combined effect of shape and motion, differently from other lizard families for which shape is enough to stimulate aggressive responses. Mirrors can be useful tools to investigate aggression related to physiological and morphological aspects in lacertid lizards.
Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Falaschi, M. & Coladonato, A.J. & Pozzi, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Mangiacotti, M. (2021) -
Isolating the effects of single releasers in animal communication is difficult because a releaser is often made by a combination of different key stimuli. Territorial communication in reptiles depends on visual, chemical and acoustic stimuli, but their role depends on phylogeny. Lacertids are modern lizards that rely mainly on chemical cues for their communication, even if they also use aggressive displays based on visual recognition. We experimentally tested the visual stimuli that release an aggressive response in males of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), testing the effects of silicone models and mirrored images in captivity. The response to models and control (a blank sheet) was not significantly different and these stimuli did not release any aggressive behaviour, whereas the reflected image in a mirror caused an overt aggression in 63% of tested individuals. The results clearly demonstrate the fundamental role of visual stimuli in territorial communication, but only as a combined effect of shape and motion, differently from other lizard families for which shape is sufficient to stimulate aggressive responses. Mirrors can be useful tools to investigate aggression related to physiological and morphological aspects in lacertid lizards.
Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Gozzo, E. & Chiesa, S. & Coladonato, A.J. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Mangiacotti, M. (2023) -
Animal communication depends on signals conveying information to a receiver who must perceive and decode them. Signals involved in territoriality are usually complex stimuli that should be correctly interpreted to avoid unnecessary conflicts. Lacertids use both visual and chemical stimuli in modulating their aggressive response against conspecifics and the rival’s size is one of the most important information, affecting the success probability in combat. To assess the actual ability of decoding information about a rival’s size based on its chemical stimulus alone, 60 males of Podarcis muralis were tested for three consecutive days in an arena bearing a mirror (to simulate an equal-sized intruder), and the chemical cues (femoral secretions) from an unknown individual of different size. Significant differences were observed in tongue-flicks number, which grew as the size difference between the focal lizard and the secretion donor decreased. This can be interpreted as the need for the lizard to better evaluate the potential competitor’s characteristics. The size difference also affected the number of bites against the mirror. They increased when the size of the focal lizard was larger than the donor triggering the aggressive response with a higher probability of winning the contest. This confirms that the focal lizard had correctly decoded the information about the opponent’s size by chemical stimulus. Although previous studies have shown that some components of the chemical signals are potentially informative about the signaler’s size, this is the first demonstration that male P. muralis is actually able to decode and use such information.
Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Ghitti, M. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Bindolini, B. (2016) -
Head shape in lizards correlates with a wide range of environmental pressures, supporting the hypothesis that patterns of phenotypic change represent adaptive responses to selective processes. However, natural selection promotes evolutionary adaptation only if the trait under selection has enough heritable variation. The trait heritability (h2) measures the fraction of the variability in a trait that can be inherited by offspring, and is used to assess if natural selection may drive evolution of that trait. We used geometric morphometrics and quantitative genetics to assess heritability of head shape and size in Podarcis muralis. A total of 139 newborns from 35 clutches derived from 35 females that were collected by noose and transferred to the laboratory were analysed. Eggs were incubated individually and all newborns and females were returned to the original sites. The heads of newborns and mothers were photographed and 13 homologous landmarks were recorded on each specimen. Genetic and environmental components of head shape and size variation were estimated using animal models, which use linear mixed models to estimate the additive genetic variance component after controlling for the pedigree of the population. Head size h2 was 0.53 and offspring were very similar in size within a clutch. The animal model for shape variables provides a partition of the phenotypic covariance matrix P in the additive genetic G, environmental M, and residual R covariance matrices, and the eigenvalues of the matrix GP-1 were used as the multivariate analogue of heritability. The first five eigenvalues ranged between 0.69-0.95, suggesting that a considerable proportion of head shape variation was genetically inherited. The corresponding five axes accounted for different patterns of shape variation that represent different directions on which natural selection could act. The outcome of our study confirms that morphological differentiation may be regarded as the result of adaptive processes driven by natural selection.
Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Mangiacotti, M. & Pupin, F. & Gentilli, A. & Zucchi, C. & Sannolo, M. & Pavesi, M. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2015) -
Lizards are ideal for studying colour polymorphism, because some species are polymorphic and the morphs often have different ecological or reproductive strategies. We studied the feeding habits of six polymorphic populations of Podarcis muralis to test whether morphs differed in their diet. Some taxa were selected in a similar way by all morphs, but selection on other taxa varied and was characteristic of each morph. Diet was most different for the red and yellow morphs. Two hypotheses could explain these differences: active segregation in the trophic niche or active segregation in space dependent on spatial heterogeneity in prey availability. The former is improbable because P. muralis is considered an opportunistic feeder, whereas the latter could occur if the morphs adopted alternative territorial strategies with consequent spatial segregation.
Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Vassalli, S. & Mangiacotti, M. (2016) -
Scali, S. & Spadola, F. & Di Toro, F. & Gentili, A. & Mangiacotti, M. & Tettamanti, S. & Cavigioli, L (2008) -
Scali, S. & Zuffi, M. (1994) -
In 1988 and 1989 we investigated the ecology of a reptile community inhabiting a suburban area altered by human activity. Recent changes in and partial destruction of diversified habitats have been directly involved in the faunistic paucity of all the area, where only three lizard and three snake species have been found, but only four of which are really common. The known thermal preference of every species has been confirmed, and some differences among taxa have been observed in lizard sex-ratio and snake biometry. Available and suitable habitats are discontinuous in the area, which probably explains the different observed distribution of the reptile community.
Schaarschmidt, T. & Bast, H.D. & Franke, E. & Gebhardt, J. & Laar, B. von & Lill, D. & Okrent, A. & Warmbie, K. & Warmbie, N. (2012) -
Schäberle, A. (2018) -
Schäberle, A. (2020) -
Schäberle, A. (2024) -
Schäberle, A. & Schäberle, C. (2025) -
Schäberle, C. & Schäberle, A. (2018) -
Schäberle, C. & Schäberle, A. (2019) -
Die Kanareneidechsen der Gattung Gallotia gehören zu den chasrismatischten Vertretern der Lacertidae. Durch ihr Vorkommen auf den beliebten Urlaubsinseln, ihre Größe und ihr teils massenhaftes Auftreten sind sire auch bei Laien recht bekannt, während die packenden bis dramatischen Geschichten rund um die beinahe ausgestorbenen Rieseneidechsen die Fachleute elektrisieren. Im seltsamen Mißverhältnis dazu steht, dass diese kräftigen, teils farbenfrohen Echsen in der letzten Zeit in der Terraristik nur noch wenig beachtet worden sind. Zeit für eine Ehrenrettung!
Bizarre Felsstrukturen, exotische Pflanzen und gierige Eidechsen lassen sich in einem Wort zusammenfassen: Teneriffa. Die größte Insel der Kanaren ist geprägt vom Pico del Teide, Spaniensn höchsten Berg mit 3.718 m ü. NN. Dadurch bietet sie die verschiedensten Klimazonen auf engstem Raum – und eine Heimat für Kanareneidechsen mehrerer Taxa.
Die Pracht-Kanareneidechse ist eine besonders farbenfrohe Vertreterin ijhrer Gattung. Obwohl d9ie Tiere auf Teneriffa in großer Zahl vorkommen und regelrechte Wegelagerer-Qualitäten entwickeln, verhalten sie sich im Terrarium häufig sehr scheu. Aber auch hier kann die Eingewöhnung gelingen - und selbst mit der berüchtigten Aggressivität der Tiere untereinander kann man fertig werden.
In Baden-Württemberg the only autochthonous populations of Lacerta bilineata are found at the Kaiserstuhl area and the south of Tuniberg. There are at least two introduced populations of this species in Baden-Württemberg in a vineyard near Stuttgart and another one also at a vineyard at a hillside near Tübingen.
Schäberle, C. & Schäberle, A. (2020) -
Schäberle, C. & Schäberle, A. (2022) -
Observation of introduced lizard species on the Canary Islands of Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura. Teira dugesii from Madeira has been observed on Gran Canaria, Gallotia stehlini, originally from Gran Canaria, on the island of Fuerteventura. Also on Fuerteventura, the evidence of Gallotia galloti eisentrauti, introduced from Tenerife, was confirmed.
Schäberle, C. & Schäberle, A. (2023) -
In addition to species of the North Spanish herpetofauna the allochthonous and wellestablished populations of the Ibiza wall lizard Podarcis pityusensis and the Italian wall lizard Podarcis siculus were observed at Spain`s Atlantic coast.
Report on a visit to two introduced populations of Podarcis pityusensis on the Spanish Atlantic coast on the island of San Juan Gaztelugatxe and at Monte Ugull in San Sebastian.
Podarcis muralis brongniardii is native to southwest Germany. Two color forms of the species are presented in this article.
Schäberle, C. & Schäberle, A. (2024) -
Schader, H. (2007) -
Schaeberle, C. & A. Schaeberle (2020) -
Schaeberle, C. & Schaeberle, A. (2020) -
Schaefer, F. (1902) -
Schäfer, A.M. (2017) -
Schäfers, H. (2011) -
Es wird über ein allochthones Vorkommen der Mauereidechse im Erin-Park in Castrop-Rauxel berichtet.
Schammakov, S. & Ataev, C. & Rustamov, E.A. (1993) -
The herpetological map presented in this paper shows the distribution and abundance of the reptiles in Turkmenistan. The country is divided into 17 complexes and the 84 species and subspecies found in Turmkmeistan are listed as occurring in mountains, plains, or both.
Schaper, B. (1992) -
Scharff, R.F. (1917) -
Scharon, J. (2009) -
Scharon, J. (2012) -
Schätti, B. (1989) -
Schätti, B. (2001) -
The type material of Latastia l. longicaudata (REUSS, 1834) most probably originates from the vicinity of Mitsiwa in Eritrea. The distribution limit of L. longicaudata in north-eastern Africa is discussed. So far, this lizard has not been recorded from north of Jabal Elba in extreme south-eastern Egypt.
Schätti, B. & Gasperetti, J. (1994) -
Schätti, B. & Sigg, H. (1989) -
Schausten, H. & Sound, P. & Twelbeck, R. (1993) -
Schedl, H. (2001) -
Schedl, H. & Klepsch, R. (1999) -
Schedl, H. & Klepsch, R. (2002) -
Scheers, H & Van Damme, R (2002) -
We studied the thermal ecology of the lacertid lizards Lacerta oxycephala and Podarcis melisellensis on the Adriatic island of Vis (Croatia) during summer. These species obviously differ in microhabitat use: L. oxycephala climbs on rocks and stone walls, whereas P. melisellensis is mainly ground-dwelling in vegetation. Since theoretical considerations predict a difference in thermal quality between the species` microhabitats, this system seems to present a good opportunity to test the influence of thermal microhabitat quality on body temperature, thermoregulatory behaviour and evolution of thermal characteristics. Data on thermoregulatory behaviour, body temperatures (T sub(b)) and habitat quality were collected in the field and selected temperatures (T sub(sel)) were estimated in a laboratory thermogradient. Accuracy and effectiveness of thermoregulation were quantified. Thermoregulatory behaviour consisted of timing of activity, selection of places in full sun and near sun-shade transitions, and basking. As predicted, L. oxycephala occupied the microhabitat with the lower thermal quality and had on average a lower T sub(b). However, L. oxycephala also selected lower temperatures in the experimental thermogradient. Thus, if T sub(sel) can be regarded as the thermoregulatory target, both species proved to be accurate and effective thermoregulators. These results corroborate the `labile view` on the evolution of thermal physiology: both L. oxcephala and P. melisellensis appear to be adapted to their respective thermal microhabitat. This is a surprising conclusion, since earlier studies have found the thermal characteristics of Lacertidae to be evolutionarily rigid.
Scheidt, U. (1992) -
Der Autor stellt anhand von 5 subadulten und adulten Zauneidechsen (Beifänge, Barberfallen) den Parasitierungsgrad durch Larven und Nymphen des “Gemeinen Holzbockes“ aus einer Untersuchung in Thüringen dar. Die individuellen Befallswerte betragen 10 bis 72 Zecken pro Eidechse und es werden erwartungsgemäß vor allem die Vorder- und Hinterbeinregion befallen. Im Vergleich mit Literaturdaten zeigt der Autor, dass die ermittelten Befallswerte als sehr hoch einzuschätzen sind, wenngleich nach Einschätzung des Rezensenten ein Vergleich mit Mittelwerten anderer Autoren aufgrund der geringen Stichprobe unzulässig ist. Vielmehr ist nach Einschätzung des Rezensenten u.U. nicht von einer zufälligen Stichprobe auszugehen, sondern es wäre denkbar dass die starkbefallenen Individuen durch den relativ hohen Blutverlust versucht haben könnten, den körpereigenen Flüssigkeitsverlust in den Barberfallen gezielt auszugleichen. In der Arbeit wird des weiteren diskutiert, welche Habitatbedingungen die hohe Parasitierung begünstigen. Hierbei wird deutlich, dass sich aut- und synökologische Faktoren bedingen. Ein wesentlicher Aspekt bei der Betrachtung von Befallswerten muß nach Einschätzung des Rezensenten immer die Jahreszeit sein, da das Auftreten des Holzbockes zweigipflig ist, wobei die höchsten Abundanzen im Frühsommer erreicht werden.
Scheifler, H. (1983) -
Scheldeman, S. (1961) -
Scheler, B. (2023) -
Schembri, P.J. (1986) -
Schenkel, E. (1901) -
Schepina N.A. (2009) -
Short essays on distribution and ecology of 3 species of lizards, inhabiting Baykal`skiy region: Eremias argus, Lacerta agilis, Zootoca vivipara are given.
Schepina N.A. & Khenzykhenova, F.I. & Namzalova O. D.-Ts. (2016) -
Th e article presents new data on amphibians (Anura, Amphibia) and reptiles (Sauria, Reptilia) as components of the Baikal region fauna of Late Pleistocene and Holocene. For the fi rst time the bone remains of the Mongolian toad, Strauchbufo raddei, from the Kharyaska-2, Chernoyarovo, Desyatnikovo, Pesterevo, Oshurkovo localities have been identifi ed. Remains of Lacertidae: Mongolian lizard, Eremias cf. argus, in Transbaikalia and a lizard, Lacerta sp., in Fore-Baikal area are described. Based on these materials a reconstruction of the Baikal region paleolandscapes in Late Pleistocene and Holocene are presented. Environmental confi nedness of species is defi ned in accordance of that of the recent fauna.
Schepp, U. (1996) -
During a two weeks stay in the west of Crete (25. 09. - 09. 10. 1996) the following species were observed: Lacerta trilineata polylepidota, Podarcis erhardii, Hemidactylus turcicus, Coluber gemonensis, Mauremys caspica rivulata, Trachemys scripta elegans and Bufo Viridis.
Schepp, U. (2022) -
The sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) finds its southern range limit in the Alpine region and, according to current knowledge, does not penetrate southwards over the Brenner or Reschen Passes into the area of Vinschgau or the Eisack Valley (Valle Isarco) in South Tyrol, although presumably suitable habitats for this species would be available there (see SCHMIDTLER & SCHMIDTLER 2004, SCHMIDTLER et al. 2006, PIEH et al. 2021). An analysis of the physiogeographical and climatological conditions of the South Tyrolean area, considering the auto-ecological characteristics of the Sand Lizard, shows the obstacles for a permanent colonisation of at least some sub-areas. The application of KÜHNELT’S principle of regional stenoecia (1943), but at the subspecies level in the sense of BÖHME (1978, 1989) is suitable for resolving this ecological-biogeographical issue.
Scherer, J. (1902) -
Scherer, J. (1903) -
Scherer, J. (1904) -
Scherer, J. (1905) -
Scherer, J. (1906) -
Scherer, J. (1908) -
Scherfler, M. (1940) -
Schermer, E. (1934) -
Schetty, P. (1950) -
Schiavo, R.M. (1998) -
I have studied the green lizard in the Po Plain since 1987. The begin of the activity changes from the end of February and the first days of March and depends on several complementary variables. Durìng this first activity period I have observed the sanie number of males and juveniles and fewfemales and subadults. From half April to May there are the matings and from the end of May to the half of June I have seen loaded females. I have found the first newborn the 17 of August, but the observation of a newborn at the 1° ofMarch shows the possibility of birth till the begin of the winter latence. In September the females would have longer activity than males.
Schiavo, R.M. & Scaravelli, D. (2004) -
Schiavo, R.M. & Venchi, A. (2006) -
Schielzeth, S. (1991) -
Schiemenz, H. & Günther, R. (1994) -
Schifter, H. (1965) -
Schimmenti, G. & Fabris, V. (2000) -
Schindarow, I. (1965) -
Schinz, H.R. (1833) -
Schinz, H.R. (1837) -
Schinz, K.R. (1833) -
Schiöttz, A. (1892) -
Schiotz, A. (2019) -
Schiotz, A. & Volsoe, H. (1959) -
Schiøtz, A. (1960) -
Schiøtz, A. & Volsøe, H. (1959) -
Schlegel, H. (1838) -
Schleich, H.H. (1987) -
Herpetological surveys were carried out by RESETAR (1981) between September 25, 1981 and December 12, 1981 and by myself from April 1, 1983 to August 30, 1983. In this final report all species of amphibians and reptiles collected in Kouf National Park and its adjacent areas are mentioned and the data, descriptions and wildlife observations, together with the distributional maps of the herptiles of the park area, are compiled. - In the proposed 100,000 ha park area 2 amphibian, 3 turtle, 10 lizard and 7 snake species were found and described. For the adjacent areas, surrounding the region of the watershed, 1 further turtle species (Testudo [P.] kleinmanni), 2 further lizard species (Stenodactylus sthenodactylus sthenodactylus, Eumeces schneideri algeriensis) und 2 further snake species (Spalerosophis diadema, Cerastes sp.) could be added. General descriptions and information on the park are given, and ecological data summarize the information on the biology of the species mentioned.
Schleich, H.H. & Kästle, W. & Kabisch, K. (1996) -
Schleich, S. & Lenz, S. (2015) -
Rheinland-Pfalz liegt im zentrum des deutschen Verbreitungsgebiets der Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis). Sie kommt landesweit in allen Naturräumen bis auf das Bergisch-Sauerländische Gebirge vor, allerdings stark begrenzt auf günstige Habitatstrukturen. Größere Verbreitungslücken finden sich in Rheinhessen und in der pfälzischen Oberrheinebene. Der Schwerpunt und die individuenreichsten Populationen liegen in den großen Flusstälern von Rhein, Mosel, Nahe, Ahr, Lahn und Saar. Hier werden neben Schotterflächen, Felsformationen, Burgen, Ruinen, Abbauflächen, Schiefer- und Blockschutthalden hauptsächlich die Weinbauflächen mit und ohne Trockenmauern als Habitat genutzt. Gefährdungsfaktoren stellen überwiegend die Aufgabe der traditionellen Weinbergsbewirtschaftung sowie die Flurbereinigung, unsachgemäßte Sanierung von Trockenmauern, Burgen und Ruinben, Hangsicherungsmaßnahmen, die Erschließung von Brachflächen sowie die natürliche Sukzession dar. Ein spezielles Artenschutzprogramm existiert in Rheinland-Pfalz nicht. Die Mauereidechse profitiert jedoch oftmals von verschiedensten Freistellungsmaßnahmen. Die Bestandssituation lässt sich aufgrund der vorliegenden Datengrundlage als stabil bezeichnen, auch wenn in einzelnen Bereichen Rückgänge anzunehmen sind. Handlungsbedarf besteht u.a. in der populationsgenetischen Charakterisierung der vorkommenden Unterarten in Rheinland-Pfalz.
Schliewen, U. (1988) -
Schlindwein, X. & Yaryhin, O. & Werneburg, I. (2022) -
Embryogenesis is the first step in the ontogenetic life journey of any individual, and is thus a starting point for natural selection to cause evolutionary change. There are slight variations in the timing of embryonic development, known as heterochrony, which may eventually lead to major differences in adult anatomy. To test this hypothesis, the embryonic development of three closely related lizard species, Darevskia armeniaca, Lacerta agilis, and L. viridis, which are adapted to different habitats, was compared by analyzing discrete timing characters. Both intra- and interspecific variation was detected. The latter may be interpreted as embryonic pre-adaptions to later adult lifestyles, demonstrating that developmental penetrance manifests within a few million years. Traits with large intraspecific temporal variation, such as limb-related features, were susceptible to natural selection. In particular, the mountain-dwelling, climbing species D. armeniaca showed embryonic preadaptions by an early developing limb anlagen. This observation demonstrated interspecific variation, which was elusive in a previous comparative study based on purely metric data of developing limb lengths, and highlighted the importance of multiple data sources to draw robust conclusions about evolutionary change. Timing differences indicated unexplored ecological adaptations of the poorly understood lifestyle of these lizards. Thus, embryonic research provides a platform to explore superficially hidden evolutionary adaptations of all organisms on Earth.
Schlüpmann, M. (1996) -
Schlüpmann, M. (2005) -
Schlüpmann, M. (2018) -
Systematische Untersuchungen zur Herpetofauna der Stadt Essen sind zuletzt in den 1980er Jahren durchgeführt worden. Die Ergebnisse wurden seinerzeit auch publiziert, liegen hinsichtlich der Fundorte aber nur auf Basis von Quadratkilometer-Rasterflächen vor. Seit 1990 hat es keine flächendeckenden Kartierungen mehr gegeben. Auch im Rahmen der landesweiten Neukartierung (1993-2010) wurden fast keine neuen Funde mehr für Essen gemeldet. Einige wenige ältere Nachweise konnten nachträglich lokalisiert werden. Erst im Rahmen der Online-Erfassungen seit 2012 sind wieder einige konkrete Fundpunkte erfasst worden. Anhand der Datenbanken des Arbeitskreises Amphibien und Reptilien NRW, der BSWR und veröffentlichter Daten wurden 303 Datensätze generiert, von denen 82 lokalisierbare Fundpunkte für Essen sind. Die allermeisten Funde konzentrieren sich auf den Essener Süden. Die mit Abstand häufigste Art ist die Blindschleiche, gefolgt von Ringelnatter und Zauneidechse. Die Waldeidechse ist in Essen dagegen extrem selten. Neu für Essen ist das Vorkommen der Mauereidechse am Rhein-Herne-Kanal. Wasserschildkröten kommen stellenweise ausgesetzt vor, reproduzieren sich aber nicht. Ein mögliches ehemaliges Vorkommen von Schlingnatter und Kreuzotter wird diskutiert. Ob alle Ringelnattern zur Barren-Ringelnatter Natrix (n.) helvetica gezählt werden können ist nicht klar. Veränderungen der relativen Häufigkeit von Arten deuten auf tatsächliche Veränderungen in der Reptilienfauna hin. Blindschleichen sind demnach eventuell seltener geworden, Ringelnattern und ausgesetzte Schildkröten haben dagegen zugenommen.
Schlüpmann, M. (2021) -
Wall lizards have been expanding their areal more and more in Central Europe for more than 35 years, and have succesfully established many populations north of the known area boundary. The expansion has assumed rapid development in large parts, especially in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. There are also quite a few documented releases of lizards, but in many cases it is much more likely that the lizards being carried away by ship, train and truck. Pallet cages and euro-pallets, actually used for the transport and storage of natural stones, are populated quickly by lizards. In particular they are the transport vehicles for the wall lizards. When they arrive in locations that are favourable to them, the population increase rapidly and the lizards use railway lines, structures along the shipping canals, walls, industrial plants and fallow land, mining heaps, quarries and other anthropogenic structures to expand further. This expansion has not been dependent on active human exposure for at least twenty years. The animals spread by themselves. In this respect, the expansion throughout Central Europe, apart from climate change, has to a large extent long been a quasi-natural process that is only accelerated anthropogenic by passive desplacements.
Schlüpmann, M. & Geiger, A. (1999) -
Schlüter, U. (1996) -
Schlüter, U. (1997) -
Schlüter, U. (1999) -
Schlüter, U. (2000) -
Schlüter, U. (2002) -
Acanthodactylus aureus, Acanthodactylus bedriagai, Acanthodactylus beershebensis, Acanthodactylus blanci, Acanthodactylus boskianus, Acanthodactylus busacki, Acanthodactylus dumerilii, Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Acanthodactylus erythrurus atlanticus, Acanthodactylus erythrurus belli, Acanthodactylus lineomaculatus, Acanthodactylus longipes, Acanthodactylus maculatus, Acanthodactylus pardalis, Acanthodactylus savignyi, Acanthodactylus schreiberi, Acanthodactylus scutellatus, Acanthodactylus scutellatus scutellatus, Acanthodactylus scutellatus hardyi, Acanthodactylus spinicaudus, Acanthodactylus taghitensis.
Acanthodactylus busacki ist ein relativ unbekannter Fransenfinger aus der Acanthodactylus-pardalis-Gruppe. Während mehrerer Aufenthalte in Marokko konnte ich diese stellenweise recht häufige Art beobachten.
Schlüter, U. (2003) -
he upper Reraia valley and Toubkal massif of the High Atlas/Morocco was visited several times in April/May. A survey of the landscape, climate and Vegetation is given. Observations on five of the six species of lacertid lizards occurring are reported. Their habitats and altitudinal distribution in relation to the Vegetation zones are described.
Observations on three species of lacertid lizards in the Ain Draham region in the Kroumir mountains of northern Tunisia are reported. Timon pater lives on big branches of cork oak trees and boulders. Podarcis (hispanica) vaucheri on tree trunks, walls and rock faces and Psammodromus algirus mainly on the ground in open situations (pathes, clearings) in the forest.
Schlüter, U. (2004) -
Schlüter, U. (2005) -
Two species of Walllizards are occuring in the Dobruja of Romania and Bulgaria: the Balkan walllizard (Podarcis muralis albanica) and the Taurican or Crimean lizard (Podarcis taurica taurica). A short description of these species is followed by information on distribution, ecology, threats and conservation.
Beschreibung / Verbreitung / Klimaansprüche von Eremias argus / Lebensraum und Lebensweise / Terrarienhaltung.
A general portrait of the Maltese Wall Lizard (Podarcis filfolensis) is given including description, subspecies, distribution, ecology and reproduction. In particular the distribution and habitats of P. f. maltensis on Malta and Gozo are compared. While the Maltese wall lizard is abundant on Gozo it is rare or missing in many parts of the main island Malta. Reasons for this unexpected scattered distribution on Malta are discussed.
Schlüter, U. (2006) -
In der Dobrudscha von Rumänien und Bulgarien kommen zwei Arten von Mauereidechsen vor: Die Balkan-Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis albanica) und die Taurische oder Krim-Eidechse (Podarcis taurica taurica). Nach einer Kurzbeschreibung werden Informationen zu Verbreitung, Ökologie, Gefährdung und Schutz dieser Arten mitgeteilt.
Schlüter, U. (2007) -
Two species of Arabian desert racer (Mesalina) are known from Tunisia: Mesalina guttulata and Mesalina olivieri. A short description of the species is followed by information on distribution, ecology, behaviour and reproduction.
Charakteristische Merkmale der Fransenfinger / Verbreitung und Lebensräume / Wichtige Anpassungen an das Substrat / Aktivität und Thermoregulation / Jagdstrategien und Nahrungsspektrum / Innerartliche Verhaltensweisen / Fressfeinde und Antiprädationsverhalten.
Schlüter, U. (2008) -
Schlüter, U. (2009) -
Schlüter, U. (2010) -
Schlüter, U. (2011) -
Andorra was visited two times in August. A survey of landscape, vegetation, and climate of Andorra is given. Six species of lacertid lizards (Lacerta agilis garzoni, Podarcis liolepis, Podarcis muralis brongniardii, Psammodromus algirus, Timon lepidus lepidus, Zootoca vivipata louislantzi) could be found. Mainly information on distribution and habitat observations are reported.
Schlüter, U. (2012) -
Nach einer Beschreibung des Pakistanischen Fransenfingers (Acanthodactylus cantoris) werden Informationen zu Verbreitung, Habitat, Verhalten und Fortpflanzung in der Natur gegeben. Anschließend werden Pflege und Nachzucht im Terrarium beschrieben. Die Eidechsen wurden paarweise in einem Terrarium mit den Maßen 80 x 40 x 40 cm gehalten. Die Weibchen setzten Gelege mit 2 bis 4 Eiern ab, aus denen bei Inkubationstemperaturen von 31 bis 32° C nach 45 bis 51 Tagen die Jungen mit einer Kopf-Rumpf-Länge von 29 bis 32 mm schlüpften.
The Middle Atlas of Morocco was visited several times in May/June. A survey of the landscape, climate and vegetation is given: Five species of lacertid lizards (Acanthodactylus erythrurus atlanticus, Podarcis vaucheri, Psammodromus algirus, Scelarcis perspicillata, Timon tangitanus) could be found. Mainly information on distribution and ecology of these species is communicated. Additional information on Psammodromus microdactylus is given. Threats affecting species and conservation measures are discussed.
Schlüter, U. (2013) -
Schmedes, A. (2001) -
Schmeer, W. (1960) -
Schmersow, I. (2017) -
Schmersow, I. & Pohlmann, P. (2020) -
Schmid, A. (2013) -
Schmid, A. (2015) -
Schmid, A. (2018) -
Schmid, A. (2019) -
Lefkada ist eine recht kleine Insel, die südlich der bekannten Urlaubsinsel Korfu liegt und sogar mit einer „Damm-Brücke“ gut per Auto zu erreichen ist. Die Insel liegt im Ionischen Meer und sollte durch die Nähe zum Festland die für diese Gegend typische Herpetofauna beherbergen. Seltamerweise liegen aber nur sehr wenige herpetologische Beobachtungen vor, da sie anscheinend nur selten von herpetologisch interessierten Personen besucht wird. Ein Grund mehr, hier einmal seinen Frühjahrsurlaub zu verbringen. Und weil einmal keinmal ist, werden hier gleich die Beobachtungen von zwei „herpetologischen Strandurlauben“ berichtet.
Schmid, B. & Schmidt, D. (2012) -
Schmid, M. (2014) -
Die Rote Liste der gefährdeten Reptilien in der Schweiz aus dem Jahr 2005 stellte fest, dass die Bestandesgrösse der Zauneidechse in der Schweiz seit der letzten Er- hebung um 11.2% zurückgegangen ist. Die Zauneidechsenbestände wurden darauf- hin als `Verletzlich` eingestuft. In Deutschland wurden Beobachtungen veröffentlicht, die zeigten, dass Mauereidechsen sich in ursprünglichen Zauneidechsen-Gebieten ausbreiteten und letztere scheinbar erfolgreich verdrängten. Auch im Kanton Thur- gau gibt es Gebiete mit eingeschleppten, nicht-heimischen Mauereidechsen in typi- schen Zauneidechsen-Gebieten. Diese Arbeit beschäftigt sich mit Populationsänderungen in allopatrischen Habitaten der Zauneidechse und der Mauereidechse sowie in Habitaten mit sympatrischem Vorkommen der beiden Arten. Während drei Aktivitätszyklen wurden durch Feldbe- gehungen die Populationsstandorte und –grenzen festgestellt sowie Daten zur präfe- rierten Substratwahl gesammelt. An zwei der drei Forschungsstandorten konnte während der Untersuchungsperiode eine Vergrösserung des Vorkommensgebiets der Mauereidechse festgestellt werden. Eine sichere Abnahme der Zauneidechsenbestände konnte nicht verzeichnet wer- den, jedoch ergaben sich Hinweise darauf, dass Zauneidechsen durch die Art und Weise der Bewirtschaftung der Lebensräume direkt und indirekt gefährdet sind. Die Untersuchung zeigte zudem, dass sich die erfolgte Bewirtschaftung der Bahnbö- schungen günstig auf die Ausbreitung der Mauereidechsen auswirkt. Abschliessende Aussagen über eine Verdrängung der Zauneidechse durch al- lochthone Mauereidechsen konnten in der vorliegenden Arbeit nicht gemacht wer- den, da die Untersuchungsperiode hierfür zu kurz war. Allerdings wurde festgestellt, dass Mauereidechsen im Kanton Thurgau in zuvor allopatrische Zauneidechsen- Gebiete eindrangen, was zu einer Sympatrie der beiden Arten führte.
Schmidt-Loske, K. (1994) -
In the Ahr valley near Dernau (federal state of Rheinland-Pfalz) a case of cannibalism in Podarcis muralis was recorded. An adult male of this species swallowed a juvenile. The habitat is described and reasons for cannibalism are discussed.
Schmidt-Loske, K. (1995) -
In a vineyard near Marienthal in the Ahr valley (Rhineland-Palatinate) a female of Podarcis muralis was observed, digging a cave in the ground for about two hours around noon. Scratching and digging as well as carrying stones is documented by figures in the text.
Schmidt-Loske, K. (1996) -
The photographic identification and recognition of Podarcis muralis was tested in a small population in the field during 1995. A possible application in adult lizards is recommended, in subadults further research is needed because of possibly changing patterns until maturity. Under further improvement this method seems to get an alternative to toe-clipping.
Activity of wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) from the Northern Calcareous Alps between the rivers Isar and Inn and north of the Alps was studied during wintertime or reported from literature. Above-ground winter activity can be observed even in the most northern populations (near Bonn, Germany, and Maastricht, Netherlands). Temperature conditions, when winter activity of P. muralis occurs, are presented. Behaviour during these interruptions of hibernation is discussed.
Schmidt-Loske, K. (1997) -
Above-ground activity of the wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) during wintertime is obviously quite common in Mediterranean populations with peaks in December and February. In populations north of the Alps with less favourable climate conditions a similar behaviour was observed, although less frequent. Potential reasons for winter-thermoregulation are discussed. It is concluded, that thermoregulation during winter might create an advantage in competing for scarce resources (territories) in early spring and thus increase the reproduction success.
Schmidt-Loske, K. (1998) -
Schmidt-Loske, K. (2001) -
Schmidt, A. (1997) -
Schmidt, A. (2001) -
Jchnotropis squamulosa is a terrestial lizard of arid and semiarid savannas in Africa. The species is characterized by a remarkable short life period of eight to nine months. Studies on biometrical aspects, growth, reproduction biology, annual rhythms and behaviour of this lizard were carried out within the framework of a population field study in the Northem Province of South Africa. Data on body length and body mass development suggest, that 1. squamulosa is a rather quickly growing species. The growing rate was constant during the whole investigation time and was not influenced by the periods of sexually mature, mating and egg production. Annual patterns of life like hatching, ontogenesis or egg development are well adapted to the optimal periods of climatic conditions and food supply during the year. The sexes of 1. squamulosa differ in their rate of caudal autotomy and in some biometrical data. The species mating behaviour is described for the first time. The results of the field study are discussed in detail under aspects of adaption strategies to the remarkable short life cycle of 1. squamulosa.
Schmidt, A.D. (1995) -
Schmidt, A.D. (1996) -
Schmidt, A.D. (1997) -
An updated distribution map of Heliobolus lugubris is presented, based on an analysis of different museum collections and of recently published data. The distribution area includes southern Angola northwards to the 11th degree of latitude as weil as the whole coastal region of Namibia up to Swakopmund and the Namib desert. Changes in the known distribution area occur furthermore in southern Namibia and RSA. Within this area, Heliobolus lugubris inhabits different vegetations zones, from dry savannas to desert regions. A detailed description of the habitat structure is given for two localities in the northern Cape Province and in northern Transvaal. Field observations of territorial and social behaviour suggest a strong pair-bonding, being maintained also outside the mating season. This long period of pair-bonding seems to be also important for the sucessful maintenance of Heliobolus lugubris in captivity, as the lizards proved to be unsociable in the terrarium regardless of sex. Field data of diurnal and annual activity are given and discussed in relation to microclimatic preferences (temperature and moisture) evaluated in the laboratory. Adults and juveniles clearly differ in temperature preferences. Hatchlings are characterised by a jet black ground colour. Advantages and disadvantages of this body colouration are discussed in relation to their preferred temperature, habitat, and diurnal activity. Finally, the paper describes the foraging strategies and diet of H. lugubris in comparison with the related and sympatric lizard Pedioplanis lineoocellata.
Schmidt, A.D. (2000) -
Schmidt, A.D. (2004) -
Schmidt, A.D. (2005) -
Schmidt, A.D. (2006) -
Schmidt, B. & Kranzelic, D. & Majetic, D. & Laus, B. & Stih, A. & Koren, T. (2020) -
The first overview of the amphibians and reptiles of Dugi Otok Island, Northern Dalmatia, is presented, based on the published data and new records collected during the last twenty years. A total of 15 species are present on the island, of which only one was not recorded on our surveys. In comparison to other islands of Northern Dalmatia, Dugi Otok is the second most diverse island in terms of herpetofauna, just after Pag Island. The main threats to the amphibians and reptiles on the island are the disappearance and degradation of aquatic habitats, the abandonment and succession of traditional agricultural fields and olive groves and the increasing presence of several invasive species.
Schmidt, B. & Schmidt, D. (2023) -
A brief description of a trip to the northernmost autochthonus population of the wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in the city of Maastricht (province of Limburg) in the Netherlands, that took place on 20. September 2020. Besides the description of the habitat some remarks on the population of the midwife toad (Alytes obstetricans), living in the same biotope, are made.
Schmidt, D. (1981) -
Schmidt, D. (1987) -
Schmidt, D. (1989) -
Schmidt, D. (2010) -
Schmidt, D. (2013) -
Zusammenfassung eines Votrags, der am 06. April 2013 auf der Jahrestagung der AG Lacertiden in Gersfeld (Rhön) gehalten wurde.
Schmidt, J. (1981) -
Schmidt, J. (1985) -
Vorliegende Arbeit stellt die Ergebnisse der Kartierung der Herpetofauna im Stadtgebiet Saarbrückens vor. 16 Amphibien - und 6 Reptilienarten sind in Saarbrücken nachgewiesen . Aus den computerkartographisch erstellten Verbreitungskarten für jede einzelne Art erhält man eine flächen deckende Gesamtübersicht über die herpetologisch besonders schützenswerten Bereiche im sehr heterogenen Untersuchungsgebiet. ( * ) Schließlich werden Bioindikator- Qualität einzelner Arten diskutiert und Maßnahmen zu ihrer Erhaltung vorgeschlagen.
Schmidt, J. (1988) -
Schmidt, K.-P. (1968) -
Schmidt, K.P. (1925) -
The Chinese collections of The American Museum of Natural Historycontainfournewformsoffrogsandtoads. Inthecourseofthe preparation of more extended reports on the Chinese amphibians and reptiles of the Third Asiatic Expedition(now ready for the press),seven additional new reptiles have been brought to light. Diagnosis of these new forms supplement the series described in American Museum Novitates No. 157, bringing the total number of new forms, in the collections reported upon,to twenty-six.
Schmidt, K.P. (1926) -
Schmidt, K.P. (1930) -
Schmidt, K.P. (1933) -
Schmidt, K.P. (1939) -
Schmidt, K.P. (1941) -
Schmidt, K.P. (1953) -
Schmidt, K.P. & Land, H. & Chapin, J.P. (1923) -
Schmidt, K.P. & Lang, H. & Chapin, J.P. (1919) -
Includes bibliographical references and index. Introduction. List of localities. New genus. List of new species and type localities. Preliminary note on the distribution of African lizards. Note on the distribution of African turtles -- Testudinata. Testudinae. Kinixys Bell. Pelomedusidae. Pelusios Wagler. Pelomedusa Wagler -- Loricata (Crocodilia). Crocodylidae. Crocodylus Laurenti. Osteoblepharon, new genus. Ecological notes on Congo crocodiles -- Squamata. Lacertilia. Geckonidae. Gonatodes Fitzinger. Hemidactylus Cuvier. Lygodactylus Gray. Agamidae. Agama Daudin. Varanidae. Varanus Merrem. Lacertidae. Lacerta Linnaeus. Bedriagaia Boulenger. Algiroides Fitzinger. Ichnotropis Peters. Eremias Wiegmann. Holaspis Gray. Gerrhosauridae. Gerrhosaurus Wiegmann. Scincidae. Mabuya Fitzinger. Lygosoma Gray. Ablepharus Fitzinger. Anelytropidae. Feylinia Gray. Chamaeleontidae. Chamaeleon Gronovius. Rhampholeon Günther -- Appendix A: Lists of the turtles, crocodiles, lizards, and chameleons of the rain forest and of the Sudanese subprovince -- Appendix B: Notes on the types of Hallowell`s West African species in the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia.
Schmidt, K.P. & Marx, H. (1956) -
Schmidt, K.P. & Marx, H. (1957) -
Schmidt, L. (1911) -
Schmidt, P. (1906) -
Schmidt, P. (1912) -
Schmidt, P. & Groddeck, J. (2006) -
Schmidtler, J.F. (1975) -
Schmidtler, J.F. (1977) -
Schmidtler, J.F. (1986) -
In Green lizards (Lacerta s. str.) two kinds of numerical variation appear in temporals, supraciliars, supraciliargranules, dorsals, gulars, femoral pores and subdigital lamellae: The first being correlated with climate, the second non-correlated. In the first kind of variation the mean values increase from forms living in moderate-continental regions to forms living in more warm-oceanic regions. This kind of variation is clearly visible even in closely related forms (mostly `minor subspecies`) and shows an almost parallel gradation in all the seven scale characteristics (see Abb. 2). Within the climatically extreme ranges of a form the pattern of scutellation seems to be generally rather uniform and to correspond to its climatic centre. The second kind of variation of these scales - non-correlated and non-parallel - has a greater importance only when comparing more distantly related forms (subspecies-groupings; Abb. 2). These results produce a number of difficult questions concerning the first kind of vari- ation and being mostly insolvable at present: Inherited or non-inherited (modificatory) character of variation? Influence of inherited climatic requests to non-inherited scutella- tion-patterns? Clinal changes of scutellation-patterns correlated with climate, as the expression of an ecological cline? Predictions of climatic adaptation basable on (modifica- tory) scutellation data? Importance of this kind of variation for taxonomy of lacertids?
Numerical and cladistic methods are applied to pholidosis in Green Lizards. As a result of this first publication treating the nearly related L. viridis and L. strigata, the specific rank of L. strigata, a fully allopatric and probably polytypic taxon, becomes questionable. L. vi- ridis living along the Southern coast of the Black Sea is now subdivided into three, partly intergrading subspecies: L. viridis meridionalis CYREN 1933 (Marmara-Region), L. v. paph- lagonica n. ssp. (West Pontus-Subregion), L. v. inftapunctata n. ssp. (East Pontus-Subre- gion). The lauer comprises also specimens having been assigned to Lacerta agilis grusinica by PETERS (1962 a).
1. A revision of Anatolian L. trilineata reveals its subdivision into three species: The western L. trilineata BEDRIAGA, 1886 (comprising in Anatolia the two subspecies- groupings cariensis and diplochondrodes), the eastern L. media LANTZ & CYREN, 1920 (comprising the subspecies L. m. (m.) media - probably subdivided into further „minor subspecies` - L. m. (i.) isaurica, L. m. (i.) ciliciensis, L. m. (w.) wolterstorffi, L. m. (w.) israelica) and L. pamphylica SCHMIDTLER, 1975; the latter being endemic and allopatric in Southern Central Anatolia. Probably these three species are equally related with each other, with the L. viridis-strigata-complex and possibly also with L. agilis. In Green Lizards generally the degree of specific differentiation is weil indicated by the degree of pholidotic differentiation. 2. In the intrapontic transversal valleys of Arav and Gök-rivers (West Pontus-Subregion) three species of Green Lizards prove to be ecological indicator-species of the three main vegetation-zones and herpetocoenoses: - Mediterranean-intrapontic vegetation-zone (Pinus halepensis; 300-600 m): L. m. me- dia and the reptiles Ophisops elegans, Coluber caspius, Mauremys caspica, Testudo graeca; the amphibians Bufo viridis, Hyla arborea, Rana ridibunda. - Supramediterranean-prepontic vegetation-zone (Pinus nigra; 600-1000 m): L. triline- ata galatiensis and the reptiles Lacerta parva, Podarcis muralis, Emys orbicularis, Testudo graeca and, additionally to the above mentioned amphibians: Rana macrocnemis. - Moderate-euxinic vegetation-zone (Pinus silvestris; 1000-1500 m): L. viridis paphla- gonica and the reptiles Lacerta cf. rudis, Podarcis muralis, Coronella austriaca; the amphibi- ans Triturus vittatus, Bufo bufo, Hyla arborea, Rana ridibunda and R. macrocnemis.
Schmidtler, J.F. (1992) -
Schmidtler, J.F. (1993) -
Schmidtler, J.F. (1994) -
A preliminary report on more than a hundred localities of Lacerta agilis (widely distributed up to 900-1000 m), L. vivipara (extending above 1200 m) and Podarcis muralis (isolated in the Inn-valley and some affluents) in the Alps between the rivers Isar and Inn (Bavaria / Tyrol).
Schmidtler, J.F. (1997) -
Notes on distribution, systematics, habitats of Lacerta c. cappadocica, L. danfordi bileki (with addifional data on the mating behaviour), L. d. ibrahimi, L. parva, L. cf. rudis, L. trilineata galatiensis, L. m. media, L. m. isaurica, L. pamphylica, Ophisops elegans macrodactylus, O. e. centralanatoliae, O. e. basoglui in southern central Anatolia and adjacent parts of the Mediterranean region are given.
Schmidtler, J.F. (1998) -
Schmidtler, J.F. (1999) -
During nine stays on Mount Biokovo (1762 m) / Central Dalmatia (Croatia), and the adjacent parts of the Cetina valley in the years 1979–1990, 16 reptile species were observed. Together with previous data from literature the list now comprises 21 species. New or more detailed data are given, particularly on the following lizard species: Lacerta trilineata, L. viridis, L. mosorensis, L. oxycephala, Podarcis muralis and P. sicula.
Schmidtler, J.F. (2002) -
Schmidtler, J.F. (2004) -
Schmidtler, J.F. (2010) -
The taxonomic history of the Linnean genus Lacerta illustrates the general taxonomic history in herpetology and can be visualized by the history of beek illustration. There is a cohesive pattern in lumping Lacerta (Linnaeus, 1758; comprising lizards, crocodiles and salamanders; expanding to almost 100 species in Shaw, 1802) and splitting (Laurenti, 1768; comprising among others his new genus Seps, a part of Linnaeus’ Lacerta), since the creation of binominal nomenclature by Linnaeus, and proceeding above all the controversy of Boulenger and Méhely after 1900. These wavelike advances through the centuries are also characterized by a slow consolidation of the higher systematic categories (class-oder-fa,ily-subfamily, etc.) and by a gradual reduction of the term Lacerta to almost the species level. This development ended now in an enormous generic and specific splitting wihtin the family Lacertidae (Arnold et al. 2007), mainly based upon mitochondrial DNA research. The remaining “true” Lacerta comprises at present only half a dozen species, all of them close relatives of the type species, Lacerta agilis. There is an historical interdepency between verbal descriptions and illustrations in the taxonomic advances of the genus Lacerta. The first illustrations of lizards (in the 16th century) are in equal measure characterized by the lack of systematic insight and the lack of technical options. Copper engravings (handcoloured) were used a lattle later. Since the end of the 18th century, new techniques accompanied and immensely facilitated a better recognisability of taxa: wood engravings –lithographs – chromolithographs – photos – modern digital colour photographs. The better understanding of the diagnostic scale structures called for their schematic depiction, and a schema of the dorsal drawing pattern was established. Diagrams for midentification keys and/or of the phylogenetic relationships have become and indispensable part of modern taxonomic work. On the contrary, the genetic revolution of the last 20 years caused a great loss in importance of morphological characters, whereas top-quality digitalized coloured photos have shifted importance mainly to popular publications on ecology, ethology, field herpetology and terraristic studies.
Schmidtler, J.F. (2022) -
Die umfangreichen naturwissenschaftlichen, wirtschaftlichen und kulturellen Forschungen nördlich des Schwarzen Meeres und in Sibirien gegen Ende des 18. Jh. waren Effekt der russischen Expansion des Imperiums durch Zarin Katharina II. Die entsprechenden Publikationen sollten insbesondere die Neuerwerbungen festigen. Einer der Forscher in diesem Kontext war Johann Gottlieb Georgi (1729–1802). Seine Beschreibung der Taurischen Eidechse, damals Lacerta taurica, von der Halbinsel Krim im Werk Geographisch-physikalische und Naturhistorische Beschreibung des Rusischen Reiches gehörte zu den Ergebnissen der damaligen zoologischen Forschung. „Georgi, 1801“ muss als der „korrekte“ Autor von Lacerta taurica, heute Podarcis tauricus, mit der Terra typica „Balaklawa“ (südliche Krim-Halbinsel) angesehen werden. Die spätere Beschreibung und identische Benennung durch Peter Simon Pallas (1814) erfolgte vermutlich in Kenntnis von Georgis Beschreibung und bezieht sich auf dieselbe Art. Da nach den Nomenklaturregeln der Name des Autors nicht Bestandteil des Namens der Art ist, können auch die Regeln wie für ein „nomen oblitum“ nicht gelten. Lacerta taurica Georgi, 1801, wurde von Nikolsky (1915) als „nomen nudum“ bezeichnet, was vermutlich auf einem Versehen dieses Autors beruht. Der mehrfache kryptische Hinweis am Rande von Georgis Beschreibung auf einen „Habl.“ oder „Hablz.“ bezieht sich auf die Beschreibung einer „Lacerta agilis varietas“ vom selben Fundort (Balaklawa) durch Carl Ludwig Hablizl (1785: 195 bzw. 1789: 350). Dieser Hinweis bezieht sich allein auf die Herkunft der Information, begründet jedoch keine Autorschaft oder Mitautorschaft.
Schmidtler, J.F. (2023) -
Observations on the occurrence, ecology, and protection of the two native lizards Zootoca vivipara and Lacerta agilis, as well as of the allochthonous Podarcis muralis in the west and north of the city of Munich, especially in the years 2017-2023. While the viviparous lizard is currently only known from a near-natural moor biotope in the west of Munich, the sand lizard is widespread from humid to rather dry locations. The invasive wall lizard shows a clear expansive tendency, especially along railway lines that are often extremely dry and unnatural; it also benefits from the now numerous protective measures in favor of the sand lizard. Observations of other reptiles are shortly added.
Schmidtler, J.F. & Bischoff, W (1995) -
A study of the pholidosis in 4 series of Lacerta cappadocica from Amanus- und southern/northern Taurus-Mountains revealad a pattern of variation in seven scale counts that parallels climatic parameters. The mean values are higher in populations living in a warmoceanic rather than in a moderately warm continental climate. Corresponding results are known from Turkish Green lizards (SCHMIDTLER 1986). L. cappadocica (group wolteri-muhtari-schmidtlerorum) shows a clear relationship between the types of rock habitats and the colour pattern of the dorsum: populations in limestone areas are light-striped, whereas the populations in three investigated volcanic areas are light-spotted. The specimens in a transition area between the two geological formations show all intermediate stages between the striped and spotted phases.
Schmidtler, J.F. & Bischoff, W. (1999) -
Revision of the Levantine Lacerta laevis / kulzeri complex: 1. The saxicolous lizard Lacerta cyanisparsa sp.n. The probably allopatric new species belongs to the Levantine Lacerta laevis/kulzeri complex. Morphologically, it has an intermediate position. The Syrian and Turkish populations can be distinguished by pholidosis. Like L . kulzeri s.l., it is a saxicolous lizard. It lives in the northern parts of the Inner Levant , i.e. east of the Syrian rift valley in NW Syria and adjacent Turkey. Its habitats and ecological affinities with the syntopic L . cappadocica wolteri, are described. Data on courtship behaviour are given.
Schmidtler, J.F. & Bischoff, W. (2016) -
Schmidtler, J.F. & Böhme, W. (2006) -
Schmidtler, J.F. & Böhme, W. (2011) -
We carefully reread and translated the Latin account by J.F. von Jacquin (1787) on his description of a viviparous lizard (“Lacerta vivipara”) in the Austrian Alps near Vienna. It turned out that – in contrast to common usage – this acount cannot regarded as the original description and scientific denomination ofd the taxon Zootoca (formerly Lacerta) vivipara. It is apparent that v. Jacquin did not at all intend to describe a new species, but just wanted to point on his extraordinary observation that the lizard observed by him gave birth to young instead of laying eggs (Latin: Lacerta vivipara = viviparous lizard). For securing nomenclatural stability of this well-known and widely distributed species, we had to search for the next, subsequent author using v. Jacquin’s name in the sense of a taxonomic denomination. According to our extensive literature review, it was Lichtenstein (1823) who first used “Lacerta vivipara” as a species name (although he thought it to be a synonym of Lacerta muralis). In accordance with and to meet the standards of Article 11 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN 1999), the common lizard has now to be named Lacerta vivipara Lichtenstein, 1823, or, according to current concepts, Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823). Cocteau (1832) was the only earlier author who recognized that von Jacquin had no intention of describing a new species. He therefore named his lizard from Schneeberg / Austria “Lacerta de Jacquin” which has to be regarded as a replacement name (at least with respect to Lacerta vivipara Lichtenstein). Subsequently, Duméril & Bibron (1839) discussed the biological details of “Lacerta vivipara” given by Cocteau (1832), but omitted his nomenclatural findings completely, like all subsequent authors. Since then the common lizard was usually named “Lacerta vivipara de Jacquin, 1787”, whereupon some older names before Lichtenstein’s (1823) action were relegatede into its synonymy. The viviparous lizard was for a long time the hidden member of a voluminous collective species since early Linnean times (named Lacerta agilis by Linneaus, 1758, or Lacertus cinereus by Lacepède, 1788 – and comprising at least additionally Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1768, Lacerta viridis Laurenti, 1768, and Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768), in their current sense. On the other hand Wolf in Sturm (1805) and Mikan in Sturm (1805) had split the present-day Zootoca vivipara into three species later on. The discrepancy between several simultaneous lumping and splitting trends immensely by complicated the development of nomenclature and systematics – not only in Zootoca vivipara (see Schmidtler, 2010) – up to the middle of the 19th century. In this paper, we provide a detailed list of the names erected and described in connection with the common lizard and discuss and evaluate their nomenclatural availability. Some of the old nomina were rediscovered here and are rather curious examples from early post-Linnean times.
Schmidtler, J.F. & Bour, R. & Bischoff, W. (2016) -
Nach der Publikation der Geckos (Rösler & Schmidtler 2014) und der Schildkröten (Bour & Schmidtler 2014) sind nun OPPELS Aquarelle der Krokodile (11 Tafeln) und der Eidechsen (Lacertidae und Teiidae; 17 Tafeln) an der Reihe. Im Rahmen eines vorbereitenden Vortrags bei der Jahrestagung der AG LGHT in München im März 2016 wurden jeweils die historischen, systematischen und künstlerischen Besonderheiten und Zusammenhänge angesprochen.
Schmidtler, J.F. & Eiselt, J. & Darevsky, I.S. (1994) -
Lacerta sapphirina n. sp. and Lacerta bendimahiensis n. sp. from the northern Lake Van region in eastern Turkey, as weil as the neighbouring L. unisexualis and L. uzzelli, seem to have originated in different localities from the parental (bisexual) species L. valentini and L. raddei (s. 1.) by hybridization. L. sapphirina is the sole species at the only known locality (2 .000 m), whereas L. bendimahiensis occurs sympatrically with L. raddei vanensis at its type locality (1.850 m), and together with L. valentini ssp. at another locality (2.300 m) . A t the type locality, a sterile and probably triploid intersex (L. raddei vanensis x L. bendimahiensis) was found. Both taxa are distinguishable in the field from each other and from L. unisexualis and L. uzzelli. Noteworthy in L. bendimahiensis and L. sapphirina are the number of ven- trals and the presence of blue lateral spots - usually male features in rock lizards. Taxono- mie implications in Transcaucasian unisexual lizards are discussed.
Schmidtler, J.F. & Heckes, U. & Bischoff, W. & Franzen, M. (2002) -
External characters of 75 specimens of the nominal taxa Darevskia clarkorum (DAREVSKY & VEDMEDERJA, 1977) and Darevskia dryada (DAREVSKY & TUNIYEV, 1997) from between westernmost Georgia and the Turkish province of Giresun and from elevations between 250 m and 1750 m a. s. 1. were investigated by univariate and multivariate analysis. The pholidosis displays mainly two groups corresponding to samples from lower (colline) and higher (mon- tane) elevations. Samples from intermediate elevations show a somewhat intermediate pho- lidosis, but are apparently closer to higher elevation samples. In general, these observations correspond with the results of DAREVSKY & TUNIYEV (1997). Based on this variation DAREVSKY & TUNIYEV (1997) separate two species, D. dryada from the colline zone, which they newly describe, and D. clarkorum, which they suppose to inhabit montane areas. However, the pholidosis of our lowland D. dryada completely falls within the variation of a large series of topotypical D. clarkorum from Cankurtaran pass (700 m). Con- sequently, we regard D. dryada to be a junior synonym of D. clarkorum. Populations from warmer lowland localities tend to a finer pholidosis with relatively higher sca- le counts than populations from the cooler high elevation localities. This kind of variation re- minds of the principle of `numerical variation of pholidosis correlated with climate` described by SCHMIDTLER (1986) from similar data-sets in green lizard species of the genus Lacerta (sensu stricto). Therefore most of the variation is supposed to be modificatory and taxonomic con- sequences are rejected at present. The rock lizard D. clarkorum occurs within the Euxinic zone with more than 1200 mm annual precipitation, from thermophilic coastal Colchian broad-leaved forest up to montane conifer forest. D. clarkorum may be associated with D. derjugini barani, D. parvula adjarica, D. rudis ssp., and Darevskia sp. The habitat spectrum of D. clarkorum seems to be narrow, if the spe- cies lives sympatrically with other rock-dwelling lizards. In such cases D. clarkorum is restric- ted to mostly shaded, moist-cool microhabitats. Without competition, however, the habitat spectrum becomes considerably broader, including even dry and rather exposed structures.
Schmidtler, J.F. & Mayer, W. & Schmidtler, H. (2011) -
The first records of Zootoca vivipara carniolica in South Tyrol (the Italian autonomous province of Bolzano, Antholzer Tal, affluent to the river Rienz in the Pustertal) and the northeastern most finding of Podarcis muralis maculiventris in South Tyrol (from above Olang-water reservoir in the Pustertal, an important Alpine geological cross-drain separating the central- and southern Alps) are reported.
Schmidtler, J.F. & Pieh, A. & Schmidtler, H. (2004) -
Im Untersuchungsgebiet, dem Inntal (Österreich/Tirol) und dem oberen Eisacktal (Italien/Südtirol [Alto Adige]), sind vier Eidechsenarten bekannt. Am Brennerpass (1371 über NN) selbst lebt rezent als einzige Eidechsenart die kühl adaptierte und weitgehend montan verbreitete Zootoca vivipara vivipara. Die anderen Arten kommen nur in mehr oder minder tiefer gelegenen Regionen vor. Podarcis muralis ssp. hat, von Süden her kommend, den Brennerpass in einer postglazialen Wärmeperiode überwunden und im nordalpinen Inntal bis jetzt ein großräumiges Gebiet besiedelt. Ob ein vergleichbarer Besiedelungsvorgang auch bei der klimatisch etwas anspruchsvolleren Lacerta bilineata bilineata stattgefunden hat, ist aufgrund des heute fragwürdigen Vorkommens im Inntal unklar. Ebenso ist umgekehrt ein postglaziales Vordringen der Lacerta agilis agilis vom nördlich gelegenen Inntal her bis nach Südtirol fraglich.
Schmitt, G. (1957) -
Schmitt, G. (2010) -
Die Arbeit stellt mehrjährige Beobachtungen aus einer frei lebenden Garten-Population der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) in Darmstadt (Rhein-Main-Gebiet) vor. Der Bestand auf der ca. 600 m2 großen Beobachtungsfläche (Garten und angrenzende Bereiche) schwankte in vier Untersuchungsjahren zwischen 65 und 152 Tieren (12–23 Männchen, 11–26 Weibchen), wobei der Jungtieranteil 53–67 % betrug. Die Fortpflanzung beginnt in der Regel nach der zweiten Überwinterung. Häufig finden die ersten Eiablagen schon in der ersten Maihälfte statt. Sowohl bei den älteren Weibchen als auch bei den knapp zweijährigen Weibchen sind Zweitgelege keine Seltenheit. Diese können schon einen Monat (im Ausnahmefall sogar 3 Wochen) nach der ersten Eiablage erfolgen. In vier Untersuchungsjahren wurden die ersten Schlüpflinge schon in der ersten Julihälfte registriert. In Ausnahmefällen kommt es sowohl bei Männchen als auch bei Weibchen nach nur einer Überwinterung zu Paarungsaktivitäten. Bei einem Jungmännchen wurde vom Mitte Mai bis Ende Juli 2009 das typische Paarungsverhalten (Verfolgung, Flankenbiss, Biss in die Schwanzwurzel, Paarungsversuch) beobachtet. Im Juni 2008 wurden bei einem knapp einjährigen Weibchen alle Merkmale von Trächtigkeit und Eiablage dokumentiert, in 2009 und 2010 bei weiteren einjährigen Weibchen.
Schmitt, G. (2012) -
Schmitt, G. (2017) -
Schmitt, G. (2020) -
Schmitt, G. (2022) -
Schmitt, G. & Bayle, P. & Bouvier, M. (1988) -
Schmitt, G. & Weddeling, K. (2024) -
Im Rahmen der Studie wird über einen Zeitraum von 17 Jahren der Zusammenhang zwischen Niederschlag im Sommer und Schlüpflingszahlen bei der Zauneidechse untersucht. Das Vorkommen liegt in Darmstadt Kranichstein am Rande einer Wohnsiedlung in einem wärmegetönten Naturraum. Die Schlüpflingszahlen je Weibchen schwanken jährlich stark (0,7-72,3 Jungtiere/Weibchen), etwa um den Faktor 10, ohne erkennbaren Trend über den Gesamtzeitraum. Die Niederschläge im Juli korrelieren signifikant positiv mit der Zahl der Schlüpflinge je Weibchen, d.h. in sehr trockenen Jahren ist der Reproduktionserfolg deutlich geringer als in feuchten Sommern. Die Daten legen nahe, dass sich die Effekte des Klimawandels mit stärker schwankenden Niederschlägen und steigenden Temperaturen auch negativ auf eine wärmeliebende Art wie die Zauneidechse auswirken können.
Schmitz, A. & Euskirchen, O. & Böhme, W. (2000) -
Schmitz, G. & Böhme, W. (1997) -
Schmitz, L.M. & Clement, V.F. & Ginal, P. & Rödder, D. (2022) -
The distribution and occurrence of a species in its habitat are inevitably linked to its ecology. To successfully monitor and protect species, it is important to investigate which species-specific factors influence its interactions with the environment. In this study, we focus on patterns in habitat use of the Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis). Differences in seasonal as well as sex and size class-dependent habitat use have been reported from the edges of this species’ range. To verify such trends in the core area of its distribution, we analyzed the habitat factors weather, microclimate, microhabitat structures, and time dependence, which may have an impact on the use of space of the Sand Lizard. Using generalized linear models, hypervolumes, density estimations, and Chi-squared tests, we found that the movement patterns of individuals can neither be described by time differences, climatic conditions, or habitat composition, nor do they show habitat- or weather-related differences of movement between sexes or size. Here we demonstrate that in the case of a population from the core of this species’ distribution area in the Dellbrücker Heide (Germany), habitat use is solely influenced to a low degree by differ ences related to the ontogeny of Sand Lizards and does not depend on any of the other evaluated factors. These results are in enormous contrast to findings in populations from the periphery of their distribution, i.e., the United Kingdom, Latvia, Romania, Bulgaria, and the Pyrenees. This implies that seasonal habitat shifts are more extreme at the edges of the range of L. agilis, serving to compensate deteriorating habitat conditions in the periphery.
Schmitz, W. (1902) -
Schnabel, R. (1954) -
Schneeweiss, N. (2002) -
Schneeweiß, N. (2012) -
Schneeweiß, N. (2014) -
Im Rahmen einer Feldstudie wurden in Südost-Brandenburg Smaragdeidechsen (Lacerta viridis) gefangen. Auf 1,2 näher untersuchten Echsen hielten sich Zecken (Ixodes ricinus) verschiedener Entwicklungsstadien auf. Darüber hinaus wurden auf 1,1 Echsen ektoparasitische Milben (Ophionyssus saurarum) gefunden. Es handelt sich hierbei möglicherweise um den Erstnachweis dieser Milbenart für Deutschland. Die Milben hafteten unter den Kehlschuppen und in den Hautfalten entlang der Trommelfelle. Auf die besondere Bedeutung ektoparasitischer Milben als Vektoren von Krankheitserregern wird verwiesen.
Schneeweiß, N. & Aßmann, O. & Elbing, K. (2020) -
Schneeweiss, N. & Blanke, I. & Kluge, E. & Hastedt, U. & Baier, R. (2014) -
Die Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) gehört zu den in Deutschland besonders und streng geschützten Reptilienarten. Trotz rückläufiger Tendenzen ist sie in Brandenburg noch weit verbreitet und besiedelt offene und halboffene Habitate z. B. entlang von Bahnlinien, auf Konversionsfl ächen und auf Flugplätzen. Bei Baumaßnahmen innerhalb von Zauneidechsen-Lebensräumen müssen Vorhabensträger, zuständige Behörden und beteiligte Naturschutzverbände die rechtlichen Bestimmungen des besonderen Artenschutzes (§§ 44 und 45 BNatSchG) beachten. Die bisherige Vollzugspraxis hat gezeigt, dass einerseits die rechtlichen Anforderungen sehr unterschiedlich ausgelegt werden und andererseits das erforderliche ökologische/biologische Fachwissen bzw. Know-how oft fehlt. Auf einem Workshop in Potsdam wurden Erfahrungen ausgetauscht und sowohl rechtliche als auch fachliche Anforderungen diskutiert. Hierbei trat zu Tage, dass die Anwendung so genannter vorgezogener Ausgleichsmaßnahmen (CEF) zum Erhalt der ökologischen Funktion der Lebensstätte in vielen Fällen zu unkritisch und im Widerspruch zur Rechtslage erfolgt.
Schneeweiß, N. & Böhme, M. & Stein, M. & Zavadil, V. & Kautman, J. (2004) -
Schneeweiß, N. & Krone, A. & Baier, R. (2004) -
Die aktuelle Liste der in Brandenburg einheimischen Lurche und Kriechtiere umfasst 15 Amphibien- und 8 Reptilienarten. Mit dem Springfrosch konnte eine für Brandenburg „neue“ Amphibienart in die Liste aufgenommen werden. Bei den Amphibien sind 10 Arten einer Gefährdungskategorie der Roten Liste zugeordnet, 3 Arten sind stark gefährdet, 6 Arten gefährdet und eine Art ist extrem selten. Bei den Reptilien umfasst die Rote Liste insgesamt 7 Arten, 3 Arten sind vom Aussterben bedroht, eine Art ist stark gefährdet und 2 Arten sind gefährdet. Bei einer Art ist eine Gefährdung anzunehmen. Der Erhaltungszustand der Reliktpopulationen der Europäischen Sumpfschildkröte und der Smaragdeidechse konnte durch intensive Schutzmaßnahmen verbessert werden. Beide Arten sind aber weiterhin vom Aussterben bedroht. Brandenburg trägt für diese Populationen aufgrund ihrer Vorpostensituation eine besondere Verantwortung. Gegenüber den Roten Listen von 1992 haben sich bei der Gefährdungseinschätzung umfangreiche Änderungen ergeben. Insgesamt 10 Amphibienarten und 5 Reptilienarten wurden in ihrer Gefährdung zurückgestuft bzw. konnten aus der Roten Liste entlassen werden. Diese Veränderungen bei der Einstufung der Gefährdung sind überwiegend in der Neuformulierung der Kategorien der Roten Listen durch die IUCN begründet, die erstmalig konsequent angewendet wurden. Für alle Arten werden die Bestandssituation und die Gefährdung kurz dargestellt. Eine Liste der aktuell wirksamen Gefährdungsursachen ergänzt die Darstellung. Als Hauptgefährdungsursachen sind die Vernichtung von Lebensräumen infolge von Eingriffen, die intensive Flächennutzung insbesondere in der Landwirtschaft, der Straßenverkehr sowie die weiterhin intensive Entwässerung der Feuchtgebiete zu nennen.
Schneeweiß. N. & Fanke, J. (2017) -
Schneider, B. (1968) -
Schneider, B. (1969) -
Schneider, B. (1972) -
On the basis of contradictory data from TADDEI (1952) and MERTENS & WERMUTH (1960), specimens of Algyroides fitzingeri from different areas were compared with one another. lt is shown, that the status of a separ,ate North-Sardinian subspecies could not be maintained and that the subspecies logudorensis and fitzingeri are to be regarded as synonymous with Algyroides fitzingeri. The area of the species Algyroides fitzingeri and the area of the genus Algyroides were interpreted zoogeographically.
The Corsican population of Lacerta sicula campestris is compared with the populations of Elba and Toscana. The restriction of variability of the Corsican population could be caused by a passive spreading. The agreement of the population of Elba and the Toscana is interpreted zoogeographically.
Schneider, B. (1973) -
Schneider, B. (1981) -
Schneider, B. (1983) -
In addition to the known species (Agama stellio, Ophisops elegans ), one amphibian (Bufo viridis ) and eight reptilian species (Cyrtodactylus kotschyi, Hemidactylus turcicus, Eryx turcicus, Coluber najadum, Coluber ravergieri , Eirenis modestus, Telescopus fallax, Vipera xanthina ) are recorded on the island of Kalymnos for the first time. The composition of the species and the slow degree of differentiation are interpreted zoogeographically. Agama stellio and Ophisops elegans are recorded on the island of Telenots for the first time.
Schneider, B. (1984) -
Schneider, B. (1986) -
or the island of Limnos Emys orbicularis and Eryx jaculus are recorded as additions to its known herpetofauna of now 13 species. All occur in other parts of Greece and in Turkey.
Schneider, H. (1969) -
Schneider, J. & Heydel, T. & Klasen, L. & Pees, M. & Schrödl, W. & Schmidt, V. (2018) -
Fungal infections in captive as well as in free-living reptiles caused by emerging obligate pathogenic fungi appear with increasing frequency and give occasion to establish new and fast methods for routine diagnostics. The so-called yellow fungus disease is one of the most important and common fungal dermatomycoses in central bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) and green iguanas (Iguana iguana) and is caused by Nannizziopsis guarroi. The aim of this study was to prove reliability in identification of N. guarroi with Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flightmass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) in comparison to molecular biological analysis of ribosomal DNA genes. In seven lizards from three different species, including central bearded dragons, green iguanas, and a European green lizard (Lacerta viridis), dermatomycoses caused by N. guarroi were diagnosed by isolation of the fungal pathogen as well as histopathological confirmation of the granulomatous inflammatory reaction in deep skin biopsies. With this survey, we proved that MALDI-TOF MS is a diagnostic tool for accurate identification of N. guarroi. Besides small subunit 18S rDNA (SSU) and internal transcribed spacer (ITS)1-5.8S rDNA, a large fragment of the large subunit of the 28S rDNA (LSU), including the domain (D)1 and D2 have been sequenced, for phylogenetical analysis. Large fragment of the LSU from N. guarroi has been sequenced for the first time. Yellow fungus disease in a European lizard species is described for the first time to our knowledge as well, which could be of importance for free-ranging populations of European lizards.
Schneider, M.F. & Buramuge, V.A. & Aliasse, L. & Serfontein, F. (2005) -
Schneider, R. (2020) -
Schneidewind, F. & Brennig, S. (1988) -
Schneppat, U. & Schmocker, H. (1983) -
Schnieper, C. & Meier, M. (1988) -
Schnürer, K. & Gerstberger, P. & Völkl, W. (2010) -
Im Jahr 2009 wurden im Naturschutzgebiet Oschenberg bei Bayreuth (Bayern) Untersuchungen zum Vorkommen der Zauneidechse in Abhängigkeit von unterschiedlichen Lebensraumstrukturen durchgeführt. Das Untersuchungsgebiet ist durch einen hohen Anteil an Magerrasen, Gebüschen und Hecken gekennzeichnet. Die höchsten Dichten an Zauneidechsen wurden sowohl im Frühjahr (Erfassung adulter und subadulter Tiere) als auch im Herbst (Erfassung der Jungtiere als Bestätigung für eine erfolgreiche Reproduktion) für Lebensräume ermittelt, die durch einen engen räumlichen Gradienten zwischen Rohboden, schütterer, niedriger und hoher grasiger/krautiger Vegetation und Gebüschen/Hecken charakterisiert waren. Dies waren vor allem Wegränder, aber auch Übergänge zum Ackerland. Dagegen waren die Zauneidechsendichten im Übergang von Gebüschen zu Mähwiesen, aber auch zu Halbtrockenrasen deutlich geringer. Neben der Häufigkeit von Kleinstrukturen (Steinhaufen, Ameisenhügel, Erdanrisse, Altgras) spielt vor allem die Dichte von Grenzlinien (Ökotonen) eine wichtige Rolle für die Eignung als Habitat.
Schnurrenberger, H. (1962) -
Schober (1987) -
Scholz, A. & Zahn, A. (2021) -
Scholz, S. & Radspieler, C. & Siegenthaler, F. (2012) -
Scholze & Pötzschke (1913) -
Scholze & Pötzschke (1930) -
Scholze & Pötzschke (1932) -
Schonert, B. (2009) -
Straßenböschungen und Bahnflächen haben eine große Bedeutung als Sekundärlebensraum für Zauneidechsen (Lacerta agilis). Da die Zauneidechse im Anhang IV der europäischen FFH-Richtlinie geführt wird und damit in Deutschland zu den streng geschützten Arten zählt, sind bei Baumaßnahmen an Straßen und Gleisabschnitten, sogenannten Streckenertüchtigungen (d. h. Ausbau der Strecken zur Zulassung von höheren Geschwindigkeiten), besondere Auflagen zum Schutz der Art zu erfüllen. Bei zeitlich und örtlich begrenzten Baugeschehen besteht die Möglichkeit, dass die ursprünglichen Lebensräume nach Beendigung der Arbeiten weitestgehend bestehen bleiben oder wieder hergerichtet werden können. Folglich können die Eidechsen wieder an ihre ursprünglichen Lebensorte zurück gebracht werden. Während der aktiven Bauphase werden die vorher abgefangenen Zauneidechsen in einem Freilandterrarium zwischengehältert. Um solche Artenschutzmaßnahmen durchführen zu können, bedarf es einer Reihe von Vorarbeiten und Erfolgskontrollen. Auf dem Gelände der Naturschutzstation Berlin-Malchow wurde ein Freilandterrarium errichtet. Über die Erfahrungen bei insgesamt drei Zwischenhälterungsprojekten wird berichtet. Nach zwei- oder dreijähriger Zwischenhälterung konnte eine mindestens ebenso große Anzahl Tiere ausgesetzt werden, wie vor dem Baubeginn der Projekte abgefangen wurden. Die als juvenil gefangenen Eidechsen wuchsen im Freilandterrarium gut heran, im Terrarium reproduzierter Nachwuchs konnte ebenfalls ausgesetzt werden. So wurden bei dem Straßenbauprojekt Karow Nord (KN) 1999 insgesamt 48 Tiere (12 adulte und 36 juvenile) abgefangen. Nach Baubeendigung in 2001 wurden 51 Tiere (38 adulte und 13 juvenile) wieder dort ausgesetzt. Bei dem Gleisbauprojekt Neulöwenberg (NL) wurden 2006 22 Zauneidechsen (10 adulte und 12 juvenile) ab-gefangen und nach zweijähriger Bauphaseebenfalls 22 Zauneidechsen (15 adulte und 7 juvenile) wiederausgesetzt. Auf elf Konfliktpunkten an der Gleisstrecke zwischen Dannenwalde und Fürstenberg wurden 87 Zauneidechsen (44 adulte und 43 juvenile) abgefangen. Für den Bauabschnitt steht die Wiederaussetzung für 2010 noch aus. Bei allen Projekten waren unzureichende oder fehlende Bestandsschätzungen der vorhandenen Eidechsen-Populationen ein kritischer Punkt. Dieser Umstand führte zu ungenügenden Abfangzeiten, was folglich nur zu bruchteilhaften Fangerfolgen führen konnte. Des Weiteren fehlen Erfolgskontrollen über die durchgeführten Artenschutzmaßnahmen. Als Konsequenz muss bei zukünftigen ähnlichen Bauprojekten kritisch abgewogen werden, ob die Zwischenhälterung als Artenschutzmaßnahme für Zauneidechsen angebracht ist. Die aufgetretenen Diskrepanzen zwischen geforderten Artenschutzmaßnahmen und ihrer praktischen Umsetzung werden im vorliegenden Beitrag angesprochen.
Schöppler, H. (1912) -
Schouten, S. (2016) -
In 1998, Holman published the first Pleistocene herpetofauna list for The Netherlands.This article is an expan- sion of that list and contains both the Pleistocene and Holocene herpetofaunae that have been described from The Netherlands. Such a complete list of the herpetofauna has never been published before in The Nether- lands.This inventory is based on fossils that have been found in quarries, archaeological excavations and along the Dutch coast.The beach fossils originate from dredged sediments that have been used to supplement the beaches. Sand source areas are the North Sea, the Eurogeul area and off the shores of the province of Zeeland. By looking at all the different recovery sites, the age of the fossils differs from the Early Pleistocene to the Holo- cene era.
Schramm, U. (2013) -
Schreiber, E. (1891) -
Schreiber, E. (1912) -
Schreiber, E. (1913) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1909) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1913) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1914) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1917) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1919) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1920) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1923) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1924) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1925) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1927) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1928) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1929) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1930) -
Schreitmüller, W. (1936) -
Schreitmüller, W. & W. Wolterstorff (1923) -
Schrenck, M. (2005) -
Schrenk, M. (2005) -
Schrey, A. (2012) -
Schröder, J.H. (1969) -
Schröter, G. (1973) -
Schtschepotjew, N.W. (1952) -
Schubert, T. (2012) -
Schüller, L. (1958) -
Schulote, U. & Idelberger, I. & Lenz, S. & Schleich, S. (2014) -
Schulte, U (2011) -
Schulte, U- & Lenz, S. & Schleich, S. & Idelberger, S. (2021) -
Schulte, U. (2007) -
Schulte, U. (2008) -
During a short visit to the Balearic Island Mallorca in August 2008 field observations on the nutrition of the endemic subspecies of the Balearic Lizard on Dragonera (Sa Dragonera) as well as the introduced population of the Ibiza Wall Lizard in Palma de Mallorca were made. These observations are briefly described considering literature relevant to mutualistic interactions between the lizards and fructiferous plants.
Schulte, U. (2009) -
In der Vergangenheit wurde bereits mehrfach über die auf Aussetzung beruhende Mauereidechsen-Population (P. muralis muralis) in Ammelshain berichtet. Nachfolgend wir die deutliche Ausbreitung der Nominatform innerhalb des Naturschutzgebietes beschrieben und hinsichtlich einer möglichen Verdrängung der ehemals häufigen Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) diskutiert.
Due to limited data on oviposition site choice and clutch-size variation of introduced and native P. muralis in Germany, field observations on six clutches (range: 5-9, mean: 6,8) of introduced wall lizards (P. m. maculiventris-West) in a quartzite quarry near Bramsche are briefly reported.
Schulte, U. (2012) -
SUMMARY Increasing human population, international commerce and mobility are accelerating the introduction of biota to a formerly unknown extent. Consequently, intended and unintended introductions of non-native species are recognized as a severe problem in nature conservation. The Common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), a species with a sub-Mediterranean native distribution, has established more than 150 non-native populations in Central Europe. This species represents an ideal model system to examine the role of the source region on establishment success, to assess the genetic consequences of biological invasions, and to study the consequences of intraspecific hybridization on native wall lizard lineages. I performed a ‘top-down approach’, aiming to identify the prerequisites first, and subsequently narrowing the perspective towards potential causal mechanisms and evolutionary processes. The adaptive capabilities and wide distribution of many species implicate that the quality and breadth of ecological niches vary across time, space and therefore among populations and evolutionary lineages. To test this hypothesis, I analysed for the first time whether climatic niches differ at the intraspecific level in invasive species (Chapter I). I assigned 77 introduced populations in Central Europe to eight geographically distinct evolutionary lineages using DNA barcoding. The resulting dataset was used in combination with species distribution models (SDMs) based on climatic information from native and invasive ranges to test for intraspecific niche divergence. The analysed lineages had rather similar realised niches in their native and invasive ranges, whereas inter-lineage niche differentiation was comparatively strong. However, I found only a weak correlation between geographic origin (i.e. mtDNA-lineage) and invasive occurrence. Lineages with narrow realised niches still became successful invaders far outside their native range, most probably due to broader fundamental niches. The results indicate that the observed niche differentiation among evolutionary lineages is mainly driven by niche realisation and not by differences in the fundamental niches. Furthermore, the findings suggest that cryptic niche conservatism may in general explain the invasion success of species in areas with apparently unsuitable climate. The wide applicability of genetic tools in conservation biology requires the development of minimalinvasive or non-invasive DNA sampling techniques. To adequately address questions of population genetics in this thesis ca. 800 individuals had to be genotyped. Since tail-clipping harms the locomotory performance and energy reserves of wall lizards, I compared the quantity and quality of the isolated DNA collected from buccal swabs and tail tips in Chapter II. These results show that buccal swabs are a simple and efficient non-invasive sampling method for DNA analysis in adult lacertid lizards. In Chapter III, I determined the geographic origin of the northernmost introduced population of the Italian wall lizard Podarcis siculus in Rapperswill, Switzerland. This population originated from a region between the Po plain (Italy) and the northern Adriatic region (Croatia). Chapter IV comprises the first record of P. liolepis introduced in Germany within a syntopic population of its congener P. muralis. The founder individuals presumably stem from a region in the eastern Pyrenees, where sympatric populations are known. In concordance with behavioural observations, no evidence for gene flow between the two species was found. Compared to the analysed native populations, high levels of genetic diversity have been retained in the introduced population of both species. Erklärungen 148 Chapter V provides the first evidence for intraspecific hybridisation between native and introduced wall lizard lineages along the Upper Rhine Rift. As a devastating consequence of introductions, a rapid genetic assimilation of native wall lizard populations caused by strong introgression from introduced Italian lineages could be demonstrated. The genetic diversity of hybrid populations was substantially higher than in introduced and native populations belonging to a single lineage but, in contrast to previous studies, the relationship between genetic diversity and admixture level was non-linear and rapidly reached a plateau of high genetic diversity at an admixture level of two. However, even introduced populations with low founder sizes and from one source population retained moderate levels of genetic diversity and no evidence for a genetic bottleneck was found. The extent of introgression and the dominance of alien haplotypes in mixed populations indicate that introductions of non-native lineages represent a significant threat for the genetic integrity of native populations due to the rapid creation of hybrid swarms. Fine scale genetic analyses of evolutionary processes acting at the invasion front of expanding populations have rarely been performed at a local scale. I analysed spatial patterns of genetic variation within an expanding introduced wall lizard population in Passau (Chapter VI). The results demonstrate that significant genetic population structure can emerge rapidly at a small spatial scale. The genetic differentiation tended to increase, while the genetic diversity declined from the centre of introduction towards the expanding range margin. I assume that the pronounced territoriality of P. muralis, which results in ’high rates‘ of noncontiguous and stratified dispersal from longer established sites, is sufficient to maintain genetic diversity despite founder events at the invasion front. The final Chapter VII summarises most of the important findings of this thesis in order to provide information for field herpetologists and conservationists. Furthermore, I address the difficult phenotypic assignment of populations to evolutionary lineages and discuss the problem of how to deal with invasive populations in the light of the current conservation legislation.
Schulte, U. (2013) -
Tail autotomy and tick infestation of 642 common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) were examined within seven introduced and one native population in Germany. In total, autotomy frequency and therefore predominantly predation pressure was rather high and ranged from 39 to 66% within populations. Considering only adult lizards up to 80.4% of individuals had regenerated tails without significant sex-specific differences. Tick infestation (Ixodes ricinus) within populations varied greatly (0–93% of hosts infested) and was strongly influenced by habitat, especially humidity and vegetation cover. Tick infestation was extraordinary high within a quarry in Bramsche and rather low to absent in dry habitats with less vegetation cover such as railways.
Schulte, U. (2020) -
Schulte, U. & Alfermann, D. & Böhme, W. & Joger, U. & Sound, P. & Veith, M. & Wagner, N. & Heym, A. (2016) -
To assess the connectivity of the Western Green Lizard along the lower reaches of the Moselle river and to evaluate the origin of popu- lations in Hesse, we used a combination of maternally inherited markers (mtDNA: cytb) and Mendelian markers (microsatellites). Our results demonstrate that the westernmost populations along the Moselle are connected and compose a management unit of high value. In contrast the gene flow towards populations at the estuary is interrupted. Estimated effective population sizes document that these remaining populations are small and highly endangered. The genetic analysis of populations in Hesse suggests that they stem from sys- tematic introductions of L. bilineata from the Kaiserstuhl or the offspring of such introductions. Furthermore, individuals of the Eastern Green Lizard (L. viridis) have been introduced within a L. bilineata population at the Kaiserstuhl without indication of hybridisation. Likewise we found introductions of L. bilineata from Brittany at the Kaiserstuhl. Our results thus emphasise the high relevance of genetic assignments of populations for nature conservation and legislation.
Schulte, U. & Alfermann, D. & Wagner, N. & Joger, U. & Veith, M. (2013) -
Schulte, U. & Beninde, J. (2013) -
Ventral colour polymorphism of 415 adult common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) were examined within five introduced and one native population in Germany. All five examined evolutionary lineages of the species show a distinct ventral colour polymorphism. Ventral colours were lacking in both sexes of the Venetian lineage (P. m. maculiventris-Ost), which exhibited a marbled white pattern. Orange colours in combination with a black mottling can be found frequently in the Central Balkans lineage (P. m. muralis). Contrary, all other lineages (Eastern France, Western France and Southern Alps) feature three different colour morphs (white, yellow and orange) in different frequencies. Yellow to ochre bellies are typical for the Southern Alps lineage (P. m. maculiventris-West), whereas whitish morphs are most common in the Eastern France (P. m. brongniardii) and Western France lineages. We discuss different approaches that might explain ventral colour polymorphism in this species.
Schulte, U. & Bidinger, K. & Deichsel, G. & Hochkirch, A. & Thiesmeier, B. & Veith, M. (2011) -
Three years ago, a first attempt was undertaken to present an overview on introduced wall lizard populations in Germany. This present compilation is an update of the list with new results. Besides data on the distribution and habitat of 82 populations, we provide information on presumed or known sources, ages, as well as on the estimated population sizes. The results of a genetic analysis of the geographic origin of the German populations have already been published and are summarised here with some additional new results. Furthermore, information on hybridisation with native wall lizards as well as information on the sympatry with sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) is presented. An approach for the phenotypic assignment of populations to evolutionary lineages is given and the problem, how to deal with invasive populations is discussed in the light of the current conservation legislation.
Schulte, U. & Deichsel, G. (2015) -
Vor vier Jahren wurde die letzte Übersicht über allochthone Mauereidechsen-Vorkommen in Deutschland gegeben. Die vorliegende Zusammenstellung ist eine Aktualisierung der Liste mit neuen Ergebnissen. Neben Angaben zur Verbreitung und zum Lebensraum von 104 Populationen, präsentieren wir Informationen zum vermuteten oder recherchierten Ursprung, zum Alter sowie zu geschätzten Bestandsgrößen. Die bereits publizierten Ergebnisse einer bundesweit durchgeführten genetischen Herkunftsanalyse der Populationen werden zusammengefasst, ergänzt um weitere aktuelle Ergebnisse. Darüber hinaus werden Angaben zur Hybridisierung mit heimischen Mauereidechsen sowie zur Sympatrie mit Zauneidechsen (Lacerta agilis) gemacht. Ein Ansatz zum naturschutzfachlichen Umgang mit eingeschleppten Vorkommen wird präsentiert und die naturschutzrechtlichen Konsequenzen einer innerartlichen Verschleppung werden diskutiert.
Schulte, U. & Deichsel, G. & Heym, A. (2015) -
In Deutschland sind zahlreiche Einschleppungen von Mauereidechsen (Podarcis muralis) in Lebenswäume der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) bekannt. Um dem europarechtlich strengem Schutzsystem der Zauneidechse gerecht zu werden, ist es notwendig, eine mögliche Verdrängung von Zauneidechsen durch die Konkurrenz zu Mauereidechsen zu evaluieren.In dieser Studie untersuchten wir erstmalig den Einfluss eingeschleppter Mauereidechsen auf syntop vorkommende heimische Zauneidechsen. Wir verglichen die räumliche Verteilung, Mikrohabitatwahl, Thermoregulation, Aktivitätsmuster und Interaktionen von L. agilis unter An-und Abwesenheit eingeschleppter Mauereidechsen aus Norditalien exemplarisch an einer Modellpopulation in Nürtingen, Baden-Württemberg, Deutschland. Unsere Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die räumliche Verteilung beider Arten sehr stark überlappt. Die Überlappung in der Substratwahl zwischen beiden Arten war signifikant größer als erwartet (86 %), mit der größten Nischenüberlappung zwischen den Männchen beider Arten. Innerhalb der syntopen Population wurde die Populationsgröße von L. agilis über Fang-Wiederfang auf 69 ± 7 Individuen geschätzt, wohingegen die Populationsgröße von P.muralis über eine Hochrechnung gsichteter Individuen auf etwa 192 Individuen geschätzt wurde. Die Rückentemperaturen der Mauereidechsen waren durchschnittlich 2° C höher als die Umgebungstemperatur (ein Indiz für sehr effektive Thermoregulation), wohingegen die Rückentemperaturen der Zauneidechsen in beiden Populationen den Temperaturen der Umgebung entsprachen. Während P. muralis häufiger innerartliche Interaktionen zeigt, waren direkte zwischenartliche Interaktionen selten und bestanden hauptsächlich aus einem Sonnen mit Abstand. Ein Mikrohabitatwechsel oder eine veränderte Thermoregulation der Zauneidechse unter Anwesenheit eingeschleppter Mauereidechsen konnte nicht festgestellt werden. Dennoich empfiehlt die hohe Nischenüberlappung beider Arten bei syntopem Vorkommen weitere Studien zur zwischenartlichen Konkurrenz, sowohl in situ (z.B. im Frühjahr) und experimentell.
Schulte, U. & Franzen, M. (2019) -
Schulte, U. & Gassert, F. & Geniez & P., Veith, M. & Hochkirch, A. (2012) -
The Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) has been introduced within large parts of Central Europe, the UK and parts of North America. In an introduced population of this species in Lower Saxony, Germany, we found in addition to mtDNA haplotypes of P. muralis also haplotypes of its congener Podarcis liolepis, a species that hitherto has never been recorded outside its native range. We therefore, (1) wanted to identify the geographic origin of the founder individuals of both non-native populations, (2) test for hybridization between introduced individuals of both species in Germany and (3) compare levels of genetic diversity between native and introduced populations.We sequenced a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and genotyped individuals of the introduced as well as native populations of both species at eleven microsatellite loci. Our results suggest that the founders presumably stem from a region in the eastern Pyrenees, where sympatric populations of P. muralis and P. liolepis are known. No evidence for gene flow between the two species was found in the introduced population. These results are consistent with behavioural observations indicating agonistic interactions of P. muralis towards P. liolepis rather than cross-species attraction. Compared to the native populations, high levels of genetic diversity have been retained in the introduced population of both species and no evidence for a genetic bottleneck was found. The effective population size was high in P. muralis, but substantially smaller in P. liolepis.
Schulte, U. & Gebhard, F. & Heinz, L. & Veith, M. & Hochkirch, A. (2011) -
We tested the performance of buccal swabs for microsatellite analysis in an introduced population of the Common Wall Lizard (P. muralis) in Germany. The quantity and quality of the isolated DNA collected by buccal swabbing and by screwing a tail tip of the same individuals was compared. Although the DNA yield from buccal swabs was much lower than from tissue, it was sufficient for a successful amplification. We genotyped the individuals at two microsatellite loci. Buccal swabs generated genotypes just as well as tissue samples. We could not find a lower threshold of DNA quantity that increased genotyping errors. In contrast, very high DNA yields (>10 ng/ml), as found in some tissue samples, produced a higher number of unspecific peaks. These results show that buccal swabs are a simple and efficient non-invasive sampling method for DNA analysis in adult lacertid lizards. Carefully applied, the technique does not harm the specimens in their locomotor performance and energy reserves. An additional advantage of buccal swabbing is the time-saving DNA extraction, since there is no need to remove scales, chop up the tissue, nor for a long digestion step.
Schulte, U. & Gebhart, J. (2010) -
Schulte, U. & Gebhart, J. (2011) -
Schulte, U. & Hochkirch, A. & Lötters, S. & Rödder, D. & Schweiger, S. & Weimann, T. & Veith, M. (2010) -
Schulte, U. & Hochkirch, A. & Lötters, S. & Rödder, D. & Schweiger, S. & Weimann, T. & Veith, M. (2012) -
Aim There is increasing evidence that the quality and breadth of ecological niches vary among individuals, populations, evolutionary lineages and therefore also across the range of a species. Sufficient knowledge about niche divergence among clades might thus be crucial for predicting the invasion potential of species. We tested for the first time whether evolutionary lineages of an invasive species vary in their climate niches and invasive potential. Furthermore, we tested whether lineage-specific models show a better performance than combined models. Location Europe. Methods We used species distribution models (SDMs) based on climatic information at native and invasive ranges to test for intra-specific niche divergence among mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) clades of the invasive wall lizard Podarcis muralis. Using DNA barcoding, we assigned 77 invasive populations in Central Europe to eight geographically distinct evolutionary lineages. Niche similarity among lineages was assessed and the predictive power of a combination of clade-specific SDMs was compared with a combined SDM using the pooled records of all lineages. Results We recorded eight different invasive mtDNA clades in Central Europe. The analysed clades had rather similar realized niches in their native and invasive ranges, whereas inter-clade niche differentiation was comparatively strong. However, we found only a weak correlation between geographic origin (i.e. mtDNA clade) and invasive occurrences. Clades with narrow realized niches still became successful invaders far outside their native range, most probably due to broader fundamental niches. The combined model using data for all invasive lineages achieved a much better prediction of the invasive potential. Conclusions Our results indicate that the observed niche differentiation among evolutionary lineages is mainly driven by niche realization and not by differences in the fundamental niches. Such cryptic niche conservatism might hamper the success of clade-specific niche modelling. Cryptic niche conservatism may in general explain the invasion success of species in areas with apparently unsuitable climate.
Schulte, U. & Hochkirch, A. & Mayer, W. & Schweiger, S. & Veith, M. (2010) -
Schulte, U. & Hochkirch, A. & Mingo, V. & Modica, C. & Veith, M. (2011) -
Schulte, U. & Hochkirch, A. & Mingo, V. & Modica, C. & Veith, M. (2013) -
Biological invasions represent ideal systems for the study of evolutionary processes associated with colonization events. It has been hypothesized that the genetic diversity is generally decreasing from the centre of the range to the margins due to multiple founder events. Invasive populations offer the opportunity to test this hypothesis at a fine spatial and temporal scale. We analysed the genetic structure of a large expanding non-native population of the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) in Passau (Germany) using thirteen microsatellite loci. We analyzed the genetic structure and levels of admixture across a transect reflecting the expansion process and tested for a loss of genetic diversity and an increase of genetic differentiation from the centre to the invasion front. Our results demonstrate that significant genetic population structure can emerge rapidly at a small spatial scale. We found a trend for an increase in genetic differentiation and a decrease in genetic diversity from the invasion centre to the expanding range margin, suggesting that genetic drift is the major factor causing this pattern. The correlation between genetic diversity and average genetic differentiation was significant among sites. We hypothesize that the territoriality of P. muralis generates sufficient rates of noncontiguous and stratified dispersal from longer established sites to maintain significant genetic diversity at the invasion front. Simultaneously, territoriality might restrict the colonization success of migrants at established sites, so that in combination with founder events a strong differentiation arises.
Schulte, U. & Hochkirch, A. & Veith, M. (2011) -
The Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) represents one of the few reptile species that have successfully colonized regions in north-western Europe far outside their Mediterranean native range. DNA barcoding revealed that 85 introduced populations stem from eight geographically distinct invasive evolutionary lineages. Although the high phenotypic variability in colour pattern of wall lizards at both the intra-speciic and intra-population level might lead to a delayed recognition of introductions and little awareness of the problem of introgression in conservation management, there is increasing evidence of introductions at the native range margin of the species in south-western Germany. In order to infer the level of potential hybridizations in contact zones of alien and native lineages, we analysed a combination of maternally (mtDNA; cytochrome b) and bi-parentally inherited molecular markers (13 microsatellite loci). A total of 316 wall lizards from ive mixed populations as well as one native and one pure introduced reference population were analysed. Based upon model-based clustering methods our results suggest a rapid genetic assimilation of native populations through strong introgression of introduced Italian lineages. We also found a positive relationship between genetic diversity and the number of source populations. This high genetic diversity might be caused by the introduction of founders from diferent native populations from the Apennine Peninsula, which is a hotspot of the species’ genetic diversity. High levels of intraspeciic admixture may have promoted the invasion success of mixed populations. Nevertheless, introduced pure-bred populations with a low number of founders also retained rather high levels of genetic diversity like native populations and no evidence for a genetic bottleneck was found. The extent of introgression within artiicial hybrid populations suggests that introductions of non-native lineages are threatening the genetic integrity of native populations at the northern range margin through a rapid creation of hybrid swarms.
Schulte, U. & Hochkirch, A. & Veith, M. (2015) -
Die Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) hat mehr als 150 gebietsfremde Populationen in Zentraleuropa ausgebildet, die acht geographisch abgrenzbaren evolutionären Linien zuzuordnen sind. Während der Großteil dieser eingeschleppten Populationen außerhalb des natürlichen Areals siedelt, existierem manche der Populationen am nördlichen Arealrand der Art in Südwest-Deutschland. Um a) das Ausmaß an Hybridisierung innerhalb der Kontaktzonen von gebietsfremden und heimischen Linien abzuschätzen und b) die genetische Diversität zwischen „rein“ eingeschleppten, heimischen und Hybrid-Populationen zu vergleichen, nutzten wir eine Kombination aus maternal (mtDNA: cytb) und biparental vererbten Markern (Mikrosatelliten). Unsere Ergebnisse zeigen eine schnelle und gründliche genetische Assimilation natürlicher Populationen durch eine dominante Introgression eingeschleppter italienischer Linien auf. Diskordante Muster der mtDNA und nDNA Variation innerhalb der Hybrid-Populationen könnten auf einer gerichteten Partnerwahl der Weibchen zugunsten gebietsfremder Männchen beruhen. Gegenüber bisherigen Untersuchungen Fanden wir einen nicht-linearen Zusammenhang zwischen genetischer Diversität und Vermischungsgrad. Die genetische Diversität der Hybrid-Populationen war deutlich höher als die innerhalb von Populationen (eingeschleppt und heimisch), die auf eine Linie zurückgehen, erreichte jedoch schnell ein Plateau hoher genetischer Diversität bei einem Vermischungsgrad von zwei Linien. Dennoch konnten eingeschleppte Populationen, die auf nur wenige Gründerindividuen einer Ursprungspopulation zurückgehen, eine moderate genetische Diversität ohne Anzeichen eines genetischen Flaschenhalses bewahren. Das Ausmaß an Introgression und die Dominanz gebietsfremder Haplotypen in den gemischten Populationen demonstriert, dass Einschleppungen gebietsfremder Linien durch die Bildung von Hybridschwärmen die genetische Integrität der heimischen Linie am Oberrheingraben gefährden.
Schulte, U. & Kolling, M. (2014) -
Schulte, U. & Kwet, A. & Nöllert, A. (2011) -
Schulte, U. & Laufer, H. (2020) -
Schulte, U. & Laufer, H. & Mayer, W. & Meyer, A. (2010) -
Schulte, U. & Mingo, V. & Modica, C. & Veith, M. & Hochkirch, A. (2011) -
Since the 1930’s introductions of wall lizards took place in Passau, Bavaria, Germany. 80 years later this population has to be considered as the world’s largest introduced wall lizard population. It has extended its range about 30 km along a railway, now trespassing the Austrian border. Using DNA barcoding, we assigned the population to a geographically distinct evolutionary lineage which can be found in southern-most Slovenia, north-western Croatia, and the eastern part of the Po Plain (so-called Venetian Clade). Morphology suggests that, in concordance with mtDNA data, the source population stems from the Bologna-Modena area. To reconstruct the invasion history of the population a total of 165 individuals were genotyped at 13 microsatellite loci. In order to investigate routes of expansion wall lizards were sampled every 5 km along a transect, covering the whole invasive range of this population. First results indicate a rapid expansion of the population.
Schulte, U. & Nöllert, A. (2011) -
Schulte, U. & Reiner, J. (2014) -
Within the last ten years gabions are increasingly used in horticulture and urban development. Furthermore, gabion baskets get more frequently used as conservation measures (continuous ecological functionality, CEF-measures) especially for lacertid lizards as low-cost alternatives to dry stone walls. However, gabions are widely used without any knowledge on whether they could fulfil the intended ecological function according to § 44 of the federal law on nature protection (BNatSchG). In this work we tested the suitability of 20 different gabions as habitats for the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) within urban areas in the region of Trier. Our aim was to identify variables, which characterize the construction, micro-climate and the surrounding of gabions and to test their influence on colonisation versus non-colonisation. In total, we recorded wall lizards on 15 of the 20 gabions. Our results demonstrate, that the three variables: 1) type of construction, 2) volume and 3) distance to the nearest population have the strongest influence on colonisation. Furthermore, the suitability of gabions as reptile habitats is influenced by the parameters: grain size, packing material, maximum temperature, surrounding and vegetation cover as well as grade of moistness. Those variables, that best explain colonisation were discussed with regard to their significance for species conservation.
Schulte, U. & S. Teufert (2022) -
Schulte, U. & Thiesmeier, B. & Mayer, W. & Schweiger, S. (2008) -
Overall we present data of 72 introduced populations of Podarcis muralis in Germany. Genetic analyses of individuals from 24 localities reveal that they belong to five different subspecies. This review contains information about localities, habitats, presumptive origin, population size, reproduction as well as source populations for most of all known sites. The reproduction (confirmed to 86,1 % of the populations) and expansion of several populations far outside their natural range highlights the great adaptability of this species. Up to now 19 populations with 738 generations have been established in a period of 25134 years. Besides factors promoting a successful establishment a potential competition situation of wall lizards that occur under syntopy with sand lizards and common lizards is discussed.
Schulte, U. & Veith, M. (2014) -
Since several years, translocations of reptiles are increasingly, but in most cases also uncritically, applied in nature conservation as compensation for habitat interferences. However, there is great uncertainty regarding their prospects of success. We here highlight the problems associated with translocations from a population biological point of view using the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) and the smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) as examples of species that are most often affected in Germany. We provide a species- and case-specific decision guide. Furthermore, we illustrate deficits in objectively evaluating prospects of the translocation success. Due to the multiple lack of knowledge dealing with the issue „Translocations of reptiles“, we should increasingly prioritize the preservation of populations within their original habitat. If a translocation is inevitable, a long-term monitoring for at least two generations should be mandatory. Its results should be supplied to a nationwide database in order to accumulate knowledge that in the future will provide a more reliable basis for the evaluation of the potential success of reptile translocations.
Schulte, U. & Veith, M. & Hochkirch, A. (2012) -
Abstract The Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) has established more than 150 non-native populations in Central Europe, stemming from eight geographically distinct evolutionary lineages. While the majority of these introduced populations are found outside the native range, some of these populations also exist at the northern range margin in southwestern Germany. To (i) infer the level of hybridization in contact zones of alien and native lineages; and (ii) compare the genetic diversity among purebred introduced, native and hybrid populations, we used a combination of maternally inherited markers (mtDNA: cytb) and Mendelian markers (microsatellites). Our results suggest a rapid genetic assimilation of native populations by strong introgression from introduced lineages. Discordant patterns of mtDNA and nDNA variation within hybrid populations may be explained by directed mate choice of females towards males of alien lineages. In contrast to previous studies, we found a nonlinear relationship between genetic diversity and admixture level. The genetic diversity of hybrid populations was substantially higher than in introduced and native populations belonging to a single lineage, but rapidly reaching a plateau of high genetic diversity at an admixture level of two. However, even introduced populations with low founder sizes and from one source population retained moderate levels of genetic diversity and no evidence for a genetic bottleneck was found. The extent of introgression and the dominance of alien haplotypes in mixed populations indicate that introductions of non-native lineages represent a serious threat to the genetic integrity of native populations due to the rapid creation of hybrid swarms.
Schulte, U. & Veith, M. & Mingo, V. & Modica, C. & Hochkirch, A. (2013) -
Schultschik, G. & Steinfartz, S. (1996) -
Im March and April 1995, the author visited the type localities of Neurergus kaiseri K. P. SCHMIDT, 1952, Batrachuperus persicus ElSELT & STEINER, 1970 and habitats of N. microspilotus (NESTEROV, 1917) and Salamandra salamandra semenovi NESTEROV, 1916 in Iran. The habitats of three species (except Batrachuperus persicus) observed and collected on this occasion are described. Hitherto unsuccessful attempts to find metamorphs of Batrachuperus persicus are explained by their possibly subterranean (troglobiotic) habits.
Schulz, E. (1969) -
Schulz, E. (1972) -
Schulz, J. (2012) -
Schulz, K-D. & Philippen, H-D. (1987) -
The first description of a female, melanistic specimen of Algyroides nigropunctatus is reported. Location (Rovinji, Jugoslavia) as weil as notes on parallel observations on Lacer- tidae are given.
Schulz, P. (1938) -
Schulze Niehoff, A. (2011) -
Schulze Niehoff, A. (2015) -
In 2010 wurde auf einem alten Güterbahngelände in Koblenz, Rheinland-Pfalz, eine Mauereidechsenpopulation hinasichtlich Ökologie, Morphometrie und Populationsbiologie untersucht. Aktivitätsdichten, Bestandsgröße, -struktur und –verteilung wurden ermittelt, es erfolgte die Messung und Wägung einzelner Tiere. Es wird von einer Populationsgröße von über 800 adulten Tieren ausgegangen, die Geschlechterverteilung im UG ist in etwa ausgeglichen. Das durchschnittliche Körpergewicht lag an der onberen Grenze des üblichen Wertebereiches. Die durchschnittlichen KRL-Werte sind relativ hoch, die Maximale KRL liegt über den aus der Literatur bekannten Werten. Als Nahrung gelten im UG unter anderem verschiedene Insekten, Bodenarthropoden, Würmer und vermutlich auch Brombeeren. Im Untersuchungsgebiet (UG) besteht regelmäßig Reproduktion, es wurden Paarungen und Jungtiere beobachtet. Extoparasiten wurden an keinem der Tiere nachgewiesen. In direkter Nähe des UG findet Winteraktivität statt.
Schulze Niehoff, P. (2014) -
Ein ausdrücklich nicht herpetologisch ausgerichteter Familienurlaub auf der spanischen Baleareninsel Mallorca sollte zumindest einige wenige Beobachtungen der regionalen Herpetofauna ermöglichen. Insbesondere bestand der Wunsch, den Algerischen Sandläufer, Psammodromus algirus, der küstennahe Lebensräume im Südosten der Insel besiedelt, zu finden.
Schumacher, R. (1982) -
Schurig, W. & Gebhart, J. (2009) -
Schuster, A. (2004) -
1991 wurden Beobachtungen zu Vorkommen und Biologie der Pannonischen Waldeidechse Zootoca vivipara pannonica (LÁC & KLUCH, 1968) im Hanság, einem entwässerten Moorgebiet östlich des Neusiedler Sees (Burgenland, Österreich) durchgeführt. Es konnten vier, teilweise voneinander isolierte Vorkommen in Grünlandlebensräumen entlang von Entwässerungsgräben und in Feuchtwiesen festgestellt werden. An zumindest drei dieser Fundstellen fanden sich im Hoch- oder Spätsommer diesjährige Jungtiere. Eine der Fundstellen liegt an einem im Rahmen ornithologischer Untersuchungen zwischen Mitte April und Mitte September 29-mal begangenen Transekt. Hier ergab sich eine Tendenz der Abhängigkeit des Auftretens der Bergeidechse von der Lufttemperatur, wobei die Tiere bevorzugt in Temperaturbereichen zwischen 17 und 20°C beim Sonnen auf erhöhten Strukturen in der Vegetation beobachtet werden konnten. Die Lage der Vorkommensgebiete und die Anwesenheit von Jungtieren spricht für relativ günstige Voraussetzungen für ein Überleben dieses Vorkommens im Hanság, wenn rechtzeitig geeignete Maßnahmen gesetzt werden. Eine aktuelle Kartierung der Art im gesamten Hanság wird daher als Basis für zukünftige Schutzmaßnahmen empfohlen.
Schuster, P. (2004) -
The report gives a short survey of the history of discovery of the giant lizards on Tenerife and La Gomera. The new breeding station on the latter island as well as some serious problems the free living lizards in the habitat are confronted with are described.
Schuster, P. (2005) -
Schütz, P. & Wittig, R. (1994) -
1988 und 1989 wurden Amphibien und Reptilien in der Stadt Stolberg und dem angrenzenden Umfeld systematisch kartiert. 1990 erfolgte eine Stichprobenhafte Nachkartierung. Insgesamt wurden elf Amphibien- und fünf Reptilienarten nachgewiesen. Davon wurden vier Amphibien- und zwei Reptilienarten ausschließlich im nicht bebauten Außenbereich der Stadt gefunden. Im Untersuchungsgebiet weisen Geburtshelferkröte, Gelbbauchunke und Kreuzkröte deutliche Nachweisschwerpunkte in Abgrabungen und auf Halden auf. Ihre besondere Gefährdung durch den schubweisen Strukturwandel im Bergbau des Stoiberger Raumes wird erörtert, Hinweise zur Weiterbehandlung von Halden während und nach der Rekultivierung werden daraus abgeleitet. F-ntomologische und vegetationskundliche Aspekte bei der Bracherekultivierung werden zu herpetologischen Belangen in Beziehung gebracht. Die Notwendigkeit ökologisch orientierter Fachbeiträge zur Bauleitplanung wird angesprochen.
Schütze, H. (1927) -
Schwacha, B. (1997) -
As new details on the reproduction of Pedioplanis undata inornata and P. husabensis, the laying of single eggs and a very short incubation time are reported.
Schwammer, H. & Baurecht, D. (1988) -
The lizard Podarcis melisellensis is reported to be the prey of the spider Latrodectus mactans from the Island of Krk, Yugoslavia.
Schwartz, T.S. & Olsson, M. (2008) -
Populations of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) are declining throughout its north-western range. Here we characterize fifteen new microsatellite markers developed specifically for parentage analysis in a small Swedish population of sand lizards. These loci were screened in the Asketunnan population and a much larger and genetically diverse Hungarian population, with heterozygosities ranging from (0.217–0.875) and (0.400–0.974), respectively. All loci were in Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium in the Swedish population but eight loci had significant heterozygote deficiencies in the Hungarian population. Two loci were significantly linked in both populations. These microsatellite loci are likely to be applicable in research on other sand lizard populations throughout Europe.
Schwartze, M. (2008) -
Schwartze, M. (2010) -
Schwartze, M. & Notz, E. & Maurer, M. & Kelling, M. & Scherber, C. & Bartsch, L. & Schmitz, R. (2017) -
Schwarz, R. & Stark, G. & Meiri, S. (2018) -
Schwarzer, U. & Epperlein, C. & Kühnel, K.-D. (1982) -
Beschrieben wird die Reptilienfauna der Toskana (Italien). Zwei Schildkröten-, acht Echsen- und acht Schlangenarten kommen dort vor. Die Verfasser konnten einige von ihnen auf einer Exkursion im Frühjahr 1982 beobachten. Lebensräume und Verbreitung der Arten werden beschrieben.
Schweiger, M. (1992) -
Six localities within a radius of about 35 km around Ouarzazate (Central Morocco) were visited by the author five times between 1977 and 1989 to investigate their herpetofauna. 4 anuran and 20 reptile species were observed which raises the total number of herp species known from the area to 5 and 26 respectively. The threats to the local herpetofauna are discussed.
Schweiger, M. (1994) -
Remarks on the lizards of the coastal areas of Tuscany, Italy. Seven species were observed (Hemidactylus turcicus, Tarentola mawitanica, Lacerta viridis Podarcis muralis, P. sicula and Chalcides chalcides). The eighth species (Phyllodactyllus europaeus) known from this area was not found.
Schweiger, M. (1995) -
The Pyrenees, Sierra Nevada, Sierra de Peña de Francia and the Cantabrian Mountains were visited during the second half of May, 1994. In northern Spain Podarcis hispanica and P. muralis are living in syntopy. On all sites Lacerta lepida was common. North of Murcia the only typical L. lepida nevadensis have been seen. In the Sierra Nevada this subspecies had a large amount of green colouration. South of Madrid Acanthodactylus erythrurus and Psammodromus algirus were found in nearly every habitat. In the vicinity of Béjar Podarcis bocagei and Lacerta schreiberi were seen. In the Sierra Covadonga a large population of L. schreiberi was found in a very dry mountain slope.
Schweiger, M. (2003) -
Schweiger, M. (2005) -
Schweiger, M. (2008) -
Schweiger, M. (2011) -
Schweiger, M. (2012) -
Schweiger, M. (2013) -
After a short overview to the discovery, description and systematic changes of Acanthodactylus aureus within the decades, the species itself, its distribution, habitats and its behaviour are described from literature data as well as by own observations. The paper is completed by short remarks on herpeto culture for the species.
Schweiger, M. (2018) -
Schweiger, M. (2020) -
Schweiger, M. & Müller, H. (2017) -
Schweiger, M. & Nerz, J. (2016) -
Schweiger, S. (2021) -
Schweiger, S. & Deichsel, G. (2003) -
Schweiger, S. & Grillitsch, H. & Hill, J. & Mayer, W. (2015) -
Die Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) ist in Österreich in drei Teilarealen anzutreffen. Die drei Populationsgruppen lassen sich anhand genetischer Merkmale klar differenzieren und stellen das Ergebnis postglazialer Einwanderung dar. Eine Haplotypengruppe besiedelt das Nordtiroler Inntal (flussabwärts bis ins grenznahe Oberaudorf in Bayern) und einige seiner Seitentäler. Ein weiteres, viel ausgedehnteres Vorkommen liegt im Bereich des südlichen und östlichen Alpenrandes (Kärnten, mittlere und südliche Steiermark, Mittel- und Südburgenland sowie östliches Niederösterreich). Eine dritte, deutlich isolierte Population lebt in den niederösterreichischen Nordalpen im Gebiet der Flüsse Traisen und Erlauf. Die letzteren beiden Populationsgruppen sollten zur Nominatform gezählt werden, während die Tiere des Inntals P. m. maculiventris-West angehören. Autochthone Nachweise sind aus Seehöhen zwischen 210 m und 1.700 m ü.M. dokumentiert, Meldungshäufungen treten in den Bereichen zwischen 300 und 700 m ü.M. auf. Allochthone Vorkommen sind aus den Bundesländern Wien, Niederösterreich, Oberösterreich, Salzburg und Voralberg bekannt und unterschiedlichen Kladen zuzuordnen. Unter den heimischen Reptilienarten kommen am häufigsten Lacerta viridis, Zamenis longissimus und Coronella austriaca syntop mit P. muralis vor. Abgesehen von einzelnen jahreszeitlich sehr frühen (Anfang Jänner, Februar) bzw. späten (Ende Dezember) Beobachtungen, setzen regelmäßige Beobachtungen Ende Februar ein und enden im November. Am häufigsten erfolgten Beobachtungen an Stellen, wo als dominante Bewuchsform Laub-Nadel-Mischwald, Nadelwald, Laubwald, Grünland oder Ruderalflur angegeben war sowie auf vegetationsfreien Flächen. Waldränder/Lichtungen, Felsen und Gemäuer/Legesteinhaufen sind häufig genutzte Strukturen. Alle Vorkommen der Mauereidechse und ihre Lebensräume sind in Österreich geschützt.
Schweiger, S. & Mayer, W. (2011) -
Schweighofer, W. (1998) -
Schweighofer, W. (2006) -
Schweizer, H (1935) -
Schweizer, H. (1925) -
Schweizerbarth, E. von (1902) -
Schweizerbarth, E. von (1908) -
Sciarrillo, R. & Capaldo, A. & Valiante, S. & Gay, F. & Sellitti, A. & Laforgia, F. & Falco, M. de (2010) -
The thyroid has been shown to be a target organ of environmental chemicals, specifically endocrine disrupting contaminants. Reptiles are particularly suitable as contaminant biomonitors, due to their persistence in a variety of habitats, wide geographic distribution, longevity, and, in many cases, site fidelity. Nonylphenol, an estrogenic-like compound, can induce vitellogenin synthesis in males and immature reptilian species, but little is known about its effects on thyroid hormones balance. The present study evaluated the potential effects of an acute exposure to nonylphenol (i.p. injected) on the thyroid of the lizard Podarcis sicula. Nonylphenol induced a significant decrease of T4 and T3 plasma levels, in agreement with the decrease of the epithelial cell height; the nuclei of the thyroid cells were small and elongated, with dense chromatin and a greatly reduced cytoplasm. The colloid was retracted with few reabsorption vacuoles. Moreover, nonylphenol administration significantly inhibited plasma thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, thereby altering the thyroid function. This study highlights how the structural and functional disruption of the thyroid gland in non-target organisms as the lizard might also have an environmental aetiology. In conclusion, nonylphenol was suspected to inhibit the thyroid hormones balance, suggesting the thyroid should be included among the other endocrine glands, susceptible to endocrine disruption.
Sciarrillo, R. & Capaldo, A. & Valiante, S. & Laforgia, V. & De Flaco, M. (2009) -
Galanin (GAL) is a 29-amino acid residue neuropeptide, which was initially isolated from porcine intestine extracts and since then, widely found in a variety of vertebrate organs, in correlation with multiple neuro-hormonal actions exerted and so receiving a constantly growing attention. Moreover, although the studies undertaken so far suggest a local intrathyroidal peptidergic regulatory action, the exact role of GAL on thyroid gland remains to be established. The aim of this study was to determine in the lizard, Podarcis sicula, (1) the presence of GAL immunoreactivity in the thyroid gland and (2) the short- and long-term effects of in vivo GAL administration by intraperitoneal injection on thyroid gland physiology. First of all, the presence of GAL in the thyroid gland of P. sicula was demonstrated by immunohistochemical technique (avidin–biotin–peroxidase complex—ABC method). Second, the role of GAL in the control of thyroid gland activity was studied in vivo using light microscopy (LM) technique coupled to a specific radioimmunoassay for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones (T4 and T3). Prolonged GAL administration [(0.4 mg/100 g body wt)/day] increased T4 and T3 release, but decreased the plasma concentration of TSH. In addition, using LM clear signs of stimulation of the thyroid gland were observed. These findings suggest that systemic administration of GAL was able to stimulate the thyroid gland of the lizard both at morphological and physiological level.
Sciarrillo, R. & Falco, M. de & Virgilio, F. & Laforgia, V. & Capaldo, A. & Gay, F. & Valiante, S. & Varano, L. (2008) -
The thyroid has been shown to be a target organ for environmental chemicals, specifically endocrinedisrupting contaminants. Reptiles are particularly suitable as contaminant biomonitors due to their persistence in a variety of habitats, wide geographic distribution, longevity, and, in many cases, site fidelity. Methyl thiophanate is a systemic broad-spectrum fungicide used to prevent and control plant diseases caused by various fungi. The aim of this study was to develop an integrated biological model for monitoring the ecotoxic effects of thiophanate-methyl fungicide on the thyroid of the lizard Podarcis sicula. The results of this study indicate that both structural and functional differences in the thyroid gland of the lizard exist in the animals exposed to methyl thiophanate. Structurally, animals exposed to methyl thiophanate showed decreased epithelial cell height; the nuclei of the thyroid cells were small and elongated with dense chromatin and a greatly reduced cytoplasm. The colloid was retracted with few reabsorption vacuoles. Functionally, the same animals exhibited decreased T4 and T3 plasma levels compared to control animals. Methyl thiophanate administration produced statistically significant inhibition on serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels and this is the mechanism for altering thyroid function. This study highlights how thyroid gland disruption, both structural and functional, in lizard and other nontarget organisms might also have an environmental aetiology.
Sciarrillo, R. & Falzarano, A. & Gallicchio, V. & Mileo, A. & Falco, M. de (2022) -
Skin exposure is considered a potentially significant but little-studied pathway for PolyChlo-rinated Biphenyls uptake in terrestrial reptiles. In this study, a native Italian lizard, Podarcis siculus, was exposed to PCBs-contaminated soil for 120 days. Tissues distribution of PCBs, thyroid hormone levels, and thyroid histo-physiopathology were examined. The accumulation of PCBs in skin, plasma, liver, kidney, and brain were highest at 120 days. The alteration of triiodothyronine (T3) and thy-roxine (T4) levels after different concentrations and times to exposure of PCBs was accompanied by the changes in the hormones involved in the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, namely Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH) and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). Moreover, hepatic levels of deiodinase II (5′ORDII) and content of T3 were positively correlated to exposure to PCBs. These results indicated that in lizards, PCBs exposure through the skin has the potential to disrupt the thyroid endocrine system. Overall, the observed results indicate that PCBs could be associated with changes in thyroid homeostasis in these reptiles, through direct interactions with the metabolism of T4 and T3 through the HPT axis or indirect interactions with peripheral deiodination.
Sciarrillo, R. & Laforgia, F. & Cavagnuolo, A. & Varano, L. & Virgilio, F. (2000) -
Sciarrillo, R. & Virgilio, F. & De Falco, M. & Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. Paolucci, M. (2005) -
Leptin, the product of the ob gene, is a hormone secreted by adipocytes that regulates food intake and energy expenditure. The hypothalamus–pituitary–thyroid axis is markedly influenced by the metabolism status, being suppressed during food deprivation. The present study was designed to ascertain whether (1) lizard thyroid gland expresses the long form of leptin receptor (Ob-Rb) and (2) the leptin administration affects the thyroid gland activity in this species (and to verify whether leptin plays a similar role in reptiles as observed in the other vertebrates). The presence of leptin receptor in the thyroid gland of Podarcis sicula was demonstrated by immunohistochemical technique (avidin–biotin–peroxidase complex—ABC method). The role of leptin in the control of thyroid gland activity was studied in vivo using light microscopy (LM) technique coupled to a specific radioimmunoassay for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones (T4 and T3). Leptin (0.1 mg/100 g body wt)/day increased T4 and T3 release for 3 days but decreased the plasma concentration of TSH; using LM clear signs of stimulation in the thyroid gland were observed. These findings suggest that systemic administration of leptin stimulates the morphophysiology of the thyroid gland in the lizard through a direct mechanism involving Ob-Rb.
Sciberras, A. (2004) -
Sciberras, A. (2005) -
The Maltese Wall Lizard, Podarcis filfolensis, exists in a number of isolated populations, some of which have been given formal scientific names as subspecies. Special attention was given to the population of P.filfolensis kieselbachi, which is endemic to Selmunett Island due to the fact of its rapid decrease. The prime suspect for this matter is Rattus sp. Through the literature read it was noted that between the late 80`s to early 90`s, the population of P.filfolensis kieselbachi was very dense all over the island. Since the present author started visiting the island in late 1997, there was still quite a good stable population that scarcely could be found in all over the island. During these studies since 1999 the author divided the island in several sections in order to organise my observations. Today, lizards inhabit approximately only 1/10 of the island and they are all located in one particular section of the smaller islet that the author have designated as Area C. Here the maximum population is of the order of 30 to 35 lizards. This very small population is a matter of concern and some kind of action has to be taken to reverse this decline.
Sciberras, A. (2006) -
Sciberras, A. (2007) -
The Mediterranean chameleon Chamaleo chamaleon is one of nine terrestrial reptile species that occur in the Maltese islands. Because it is an introduced species very few studies have been conducted inMalta and much of the available knowledge is derived from research made abroad in a different environment. This study tackles some of data in circulation and the discovery of this reptile on the islet of Cominotto, and endeavours to investigate its potential impact on the local population of Podarcis filfolensis.
Sciberras, A. (2009) -
Reported in this short note are some observations on the introduced avifauna of Comino Island and observed interactions with local herpetofauna.
Sciberras, A. (2010) -
Sciberras, A. (2014) -
Caudal autotomy, the ability to shed the tail, is common in a number of lizard species as a response to attempted predation and is a well studied subject. In this short work, attention to the species Podarcis filfolensis (Bedriaga 1876) is given based on several years of field observations.
Sciberras, A. (2025) -
The Maltese Wall Lizard Podarcis filfolensis has long fascinated biologists due to its remarkable phenotypic plasticity and island-specific traits. Historically, the species was divided into multiple subspecies based on morphology, a framework that persisted unchallenged for most of the 20th century. However, contemporary genetic studies undermine the subspecies model, instead revealing two major clades across the Maltese and Pelagian Islands. This paper reviews historical and modern taxonomic interpretations, presents detailed morphological field observations, and critiques the persistent misuse of outdated subspecies nomenclature in both academic and public discourse. We advocate for the recognition of island morphs within a single species model and call for institutional leadership in taxonomic modernization.
Sciberras, A. & Lalov, S.V. (2007) -
Recently the presence of the black rat Rattus rattus was reported from the island of Fungus Rock which houses a remarkable flora and fauna and has been a protected site for over 250 years. A preliminary account of the rat’s impact on some Fungus Rock species is given and threats to the island’s ecosystem are discussed.
Sciberras, A. & Schembri, E. (2005) -
Sciberras, A. & Schembri, P.J. (2008) -
The population of the endemic Maltese wall lizard, Podarcis filfolensis, on the small island of Selmunett (10.9 ha), off the northeast coast of the island of Malta, has been described as a distinct subspecies P. f. kieselbachi. Selmunett is a protected site and its lizard is a protected species. Reports of a pronounced decline in the Selmunett lizard population were investigated by systematic visual estimates of lizard population density started in 1999. Since August 1999, population counts declined from a high of 18 individuals observed per hour to zero by August 2005. The rate of decline was greatest for juveniles and females. Numerous cases of predation of the lizards by rats were observed and such predation seemed to be the cause of the decline in lizard populations; visual counts of daytime-active rats, also started in 1999, showed a large rat popuation on Selmunett. In turn, the rat population appeared to have increased as a result of organic waste left by human visitors to the islet. A rat eradication programme implemented in 2006 2007 exterminated rats from Selmunett by the summer of 2007, when a few lizards captured in 2004 and kept in captivity since were released back to the islet to augment what remained of the population there (some lizards were spotted by casujal observers, even if none were recorded during the actual counts). It remains to be seen if this attempt at saving the Selmunett wall-lizard population has been successful.
Sciberras, A. & Sciberras, J. (2024) -
The islet’s recent discovery by the authors hold quite a rich biota compared to its size. In this work topography is re- described adding one species of flora to the already known six (SCIBERRAS & SCIBERRAS 2010, SCIBERRAS et al. 2012) and 32 new species of fauna to the two recorded (LO CASCIO & SCIBERRAS 2020, AGUIS & SCIBERRAS 2022) with a complete description of the endemic lacertid, Podarcis filfolensis, in situ.
Sciberras, A. & Sciberras, J. & Pisani, L. (2012) -
Sciberras, J. & Sciberras, A. (2012) -
Sciberras, J. & Sciberras, A. (2013) -
Sciberras, J. & Sciberras, A. (2014) -
Different behavior in populations of Podarcis filflolensis on the Maltese and Pelagian islands are described and discussed.
Sclater, W.L. (1898) -
Scoccianti, C. (2006) -
Scortecci, G. (1929) -
Scortecci, G. (1930) -
Scortecci, G. (1934) -
Scortecci, G. (1935) -
Scortecci, G. (1946) -
Scriba, D. (2000) -
Scudiero, R. & Esposito, M.G. & Simoniello, P. (2014) -
Scudiero, R. & Filosa, S. & Motta, C.M. & Simoniello, P. & Trinchella, F. (2011) -
Cadmium is a persistent contaminant accumulated in the environment from both anthropogenic and natural sources. Every year, large quantities of this metal are released in the different environmental compartments and may pose a significant threat to the biota exposed. Intracellular damage caused by cadmium exposure includes protein denaturation, lipid peroxidation, generation of reactive oxygen species and DNA strand breaks. Many studies have also demonstrated that this ion has a teratogenic or lethal effect on embryos, related to the dose and exposure time. In spite of the wide number of studies carried out in laboratory mammals, data on cadmium effects on fertility, reproduction and embryonic development of wild terrestrial vertebrates are still limited. In particular, information on the consequences of environmental cadmium exposure on reptiles survival and biodiversity are particularly scanty. Reptiles are presently considered highly susceptible to a number of environmental pollutants and this has contributed to the global decline of several wild populations of turtles, crocodilians and lizards. As regarding cadmium effects on offspring survival, reptiles eggs for a long time have been considered well protect from the external environment and the presence of environmental contaminants in eggs or developing embryos has been attributed to a maternal transference during vitellogenesis and oviductal egg retention. More recently, it has been demonstrate that metal ions and organic contaminants present in soil may cross the flexible parchment-like shell of reptilian eggs. In consideration of the few data currently available we decided to investigate cadmium effects on biological processes such as reproduction and development in the reptile Podarcis sicula, a lizard species inhabiting both pristine and urbanized areas. The results summarized in this chapter clearly demonstrate that cadmium can interfere with the welfare and the reproductive fitness of adults, and with the development and survival of embryos. In turn, these detrimental effects on offspring production may dramatically modify the survival of wild populations inhabiting contaminated areas significantly endangering the local biodiversity and the ecological equilibrium.
Scudiero, R. & Motta, C.M. & Simoniello, P. (2021) -
The cleidoic eggs of oviparous reptiles are protected from the external environment by membranes and a parchment shell permeable to water and dissolved molecules. As a consequence, not only physical but also chemical insults can reach the developing embryos, interfering with gene expression. This review provides information on the impact of the exposure to cadmium contamination or thermal stress on gene expression during the development of Italian wall lizards of the genus Podarcis. The results obtained by transcriptomic analysis, although not exhaustive, allowed to identify some stress-reactive genes and, consequently, the molecular pathways in which these genes are involved. Cadmium-responsive genes encode proteins involved in cellular protection, metabolism and proliferation, membrane trafficking, protein interactions, neuronal transmission and plasticity, immune response, and transcription regulatory factors. Cold stress changes the expression of genes involved in transcriptional/translational regulation and chromatin remodeling and inhibits the transcription of a histone methyltransferase with the probable consequence of modifying the epigenetic control of DNA. These findings provide transcriptome-level evidence of how terrestrial vertebrate embryos cope with stress, giving a key to use in population survival and environmental change studies. A better understanding of the genes contributing to stress tolerance in vertebrates would facilitate methodologies and applications aimed at improving resistance to unfavourable environments.
Scudiero, R. & Verderame, M. & Motta, C.M. & Migliaccio, V. & Simoniello, P. (2019) -
The Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) are a superfamily of molecular chaperones that maintain cellular homeostasis under stress. HSP70 represents the major stress-inducible family member, often activated in response to changes in thermal ranges of organisms, and therefore playing an important role enhancing thermal tolerance limits in ectothermic animals. The present study aimed to investigate the presence and the localization of HSP70 through the development of Podarcis siculus, an oviparous lizard inhabiting temperate Mediterranean regions, showing a limited potential to tolerate thermal changes during embryogenesis. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that HSP70 protein is constitutively present in early embryonic stages, abundantly distributed in eye, in encephalic domains (predominantly in ventricular areas and in grey matter), in grey matter of spinal cord, in lung, gut mucosa, hepatic cords and kidney tubules. Interestingly, a severe drop in incubation temperature (5 °C for 3 days) does not induce enhancements in HSP70 levels nor changes in tissues localization. These results suggest that the HSP70 found in P. siculus embryos represents a non-inducible, constitutive molecular chaperone that should be better called Heat Shock Cognate 70 (HSC70); the presence of stress-induced members of the HSP family in P. siculus has yet to be proven
Scudiero, R. & Verderame, M. & Motta, C.M. & Simoniello, P. (2017) -
Metallothioneins (MTs) are an evolutionary conserved multigene family of proteins whose role was initially identified in binding essential metals. The physiological role of MT, however, has been revealed to be more complex than expected, since not only are MTs able to bind to toxic heavy metals, but many isoforms have shown specialized and alternative functions. Within this uncertainty, the information available on MTs in non-mammalian vertebrates, particularly in neglected tetrapods such as the reptiles, is even more scant. In this review, we provide a summary of the current understanding on metallothionein presence and function in the oviparous lizard Podarcis sicula, highlighting the results obtained by studying MT gene expression in most representative adult and embryonic tissues. The results demonstrate that in adults, cadmium induces MT transcription in a dose- and tissue-specific manner. Thus, the MT mRNAs appear, at least in some cases, to be an unsuitable tool for detecting environmental ion contamination. In early embryos, maternal RNAs sustain developmental needs for MT protein until organogenesis is well on its way. At this time, transcription starts, but again in a tissue- and organ-specific manner, suggesting an involvement in alternative roles. In conclusion, the spatiotemporal distribution of transcripts in adults and embryos definitively confirms that MT has deserved the title of elusive protein.
Sedalishchev, V.T. & Belimov, G.T. (1978) -
Sedine, S.E. & El Bouhissi, M. (2021) -
An adult female of the buthid scorpion Androctonus amoreuxi (Audouin, 1826) was observed feeding on a juvenile lizard, Acanthodactylus Wiegmann, 1834 (Squamata, Lacertidae) in western Algeria. Predation of Acanthodactylus by a scorpion has not been previously reported.
Seeger, E. (1908) -
Seehofer, H. (1995) -
Sefeke, S. (1973) -
Segoli, M. & Cohen, B.L. & Werner, Y.L. (2002) -
Sehnal, P. (1999) -
Sehnal, P. & Schuster, A. (1999) -
Sehnal, P. & Tiedemann, F. (1990) -
Auf der Grundlage einer ausführlichen Situationsbcschrcibung wird die rückläufige Bestandsentwicklung der Lurch- und Kriechtierfauna im Wiener Prater diskutiert. Die Präsenz der einzelnen Arten wird graphisch dargestellt. Geeignete Maßnahmen zur Krhaltung bzw. Verbesserung der gegenwärtigen Situation werden vorgeschlagen.
Seidel, J. (2009) -
Seifan, M. & Gilad, A. & Klass, K. & Werner, Y.L. (2009) -
Recent arguments in the literature prompted us to compare methods for assessing sexual dimorphism in body proportions of lacertid lizards, using Acanthodactylus boskianus. Although expressing body-part measurements as proportional to head length was the most effective method, we recommend using trunk length for the baseline as a general method for lizards. We also argue that, when aiming to assess sexual dimorphism in body proportions of lizards, if the context is ecological, all available adults should be included. However, for morphology and taxonomy, small sub-samples of the largest individuals that maximally express their genetic morphological potential should be used. In A. boskianus, the sexual dimorphism of mensural characters in adults was typical: males were larger, with relatively larger head and appendages. However, the ontogeny of this dimorphism was unusual in that the differences existed already in youth and thereafter persisted isometrically. The sexual dimorphism of meristic characters was male-biased in numbers of femoral pores and of caudal vertebrae, and female-biased in numbers of ventral plates along the trunk and of precaudal vertebrae. Size dimorphism may conceivably play a role in sex recognition because two potential visual cues (i.e. size dimorphism and dichromatism) appear to complement each other.
Seipp, R. (1998) -
Seitz, D. (2018) -
Seligmann, H. (1997) -
Seligmann, H. (2000) -
In this paper, the evolution and ecology of directional asymmetry (DA) during the developmental trajectory (DT) is compared with that of its product, morphological DA (MDA). DT and MDA are calculated for two bilateral morphological scale characters of lizards, the number of subdigital lamellae beneath the fourth toe in 10 agamid and 28 lacertid taxa, and the number of rows of ventral scales in 12 lacertid taxa. MDA, the subtraction between left and right sides (classical measure of DA), is functional in adult animals. Results confirm the hypodiesis that, in DT, the regression parameters a (constant) and b (regression slope) of counts on the right side with those on the left describe a developmental process. No phylogenetic or environmental effects were observed on a and b, but analyses considering both a and b together show non-random phyletic patterns. Independent analyses deduced the same ancestral DT in Agamidae and Lacertidae. In Lacertidae, distance between pairs of taxa in a + b (standardized values) correlates positively with die phylogenetic distance between taxa. Phyletic trends in MDA are indirect, and due to the link of MDA with a + b. The MDA of species is more dissimilar in sympatry than in allopatry. The phyletic trends suggest evolution of DT, while die association of MDA witii sympatry suggests that ecological pressures shape MDA in adult animals. Evolution of DT is independent from tiiat of its product, MDA–adaptive determinism defines the result of, but not the mechanistic process of, development. Deterministic environmental processes define MDA, and deterministic evolutionary processes define the interactive result of a and b, but not each separately. According to circumstances, different DTs produce similar or different MDA, and a particular DT can produce different MDAs.
Seligmann, H. & Paz, S. & Salvador, A. (1997) -
Conclusion: It seems that morphological radiation on islets is due to adaptations to minute microclimate variations among islets, rather than to the history of migrations among islands or random genetic drift.
Semegen, S. & Foufopoulos, J. (2018) -
Semegen, S.L. (2018) -
Endemic wildlife species confined to islands are both ecologically unique and tend to be severely endangered. More than 60% of the species known to have gone extinct to date used to occur on islands (Spatz et al. 2017). While there are several reasons why island taxa tend to be threatened, susceptibility to exotic species, such as invasive predators, is an important contributor. Earlier research has suggested that loss of antipredator defenses in island species is at least partially responsible for this. Locomotor abilities, including sprint speed and stamina, are traits that are essential to escape predation. Here we tested the hypothesis that island species that have evolved in predator-poor environments have lost their ability to run fast – a key trait for escaping invasive predators. We examined maximal sprint speed and maximal stamina in the Aegean wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii). The species is widespread throughout the Aegean archipelago (Greece, Mediterranean Basin) and is found on islands with varying levels of predation pressure making it an ideal study organism. We show that on islands with predators, lizards run at higher speeds relative to lizards on predator-free islands. Not all predator categories however are of equal importance: presence of mammalian - but not other - predators was significantly associated with higher sprint speeds in island lizards. In contrast to sprint speed, stamina was not related to predation environment suggesting that this is not a trait that is under selection by predators. Stamina may therefore be less useful for predicting endangerment by introduced predators. Differences in locomotor performance were not attributable to differences in limb lengths. The results of this study suggest that conservation funding may be best allocated to protect the most susceptible wildlife populations that live explicitly on low-predation islands as well as on islands isolated for long periods of time. Key Words: Antipredator defenses, locomotor performance, sprint speed, predation, islands.
Semenov, D.V. (2006) -
Semenov, D.V. (2009) -
Analysis of different aspects of the modern herpetology with the common lizard, Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara, as a model species, shoes that the species could be considered as an effective integrative model object of biological researches.
Semenov, D.V. (2011) -
A population of common lizard, Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara, at the species area edge in Northern Mongolia was surveyed in the summer of 2008. A set of harmless methods was employed. Materials on the ecology and external characters are given.
Семенов, Д.В. (2011) -
В 2008 г. проведены наблюдения за популяцией живородящей ящерицы, Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara, на севере Монголии. С помощью комплекса щадящих методов собраны данные по экологии и внешнеморфологиче- ским особенностям этой краевой популяции.
Semenov, D.V. & Ivanova, S.A. (1995) -
Some reproductive features of common lizard Lacerta vivipara in radioactive environment were studied on the territory of the East Ural radioactive track in comparison with a control. On the polluted area a hermaphrodite specimen was found and 20.5% of embryos had obvious abnormalities.
Senczuk, G. & Castiglia, R. & Böhme, W. & Corti, C. (2019) -
In recent years, great attention has been paid to many Podarcis species for which the observed intra-specific variability often revealed species complexes still characterized by an unresolved relationship. When compared to other species, P. siculus underwent fewer revisions and the number of species hidden within this taxon may have been, therefore, underestimated. However, recent studies based on genetic and morphological data highlighted a marked differentiation of the populations inhabiting the western Pontine Archipelago. In the present work we used published genetic data (three mitochondrial and three nuclear gene fragments) from 25 Podarcis species to provide a multilocus phylogeny of the genus in order to understand the degree of differentiation of the western Pontine populations. In addition, we analyzed new morphometric traits (scale counts) of 151 specimens from the main islands of the Pontine Archipelago. The phylogenetic analysis revealed five principal Podarcis groups with biogeographic consistency. The genetic distinctiveness of the Podarcis populations of the western Pontine Islands is similar or even more ancient than those observed in numerous other pairs of Podarcis sister species. In the light of these evidences we raise the western Pontine lizards to specific rank; thus they should be referred to as Podarcis latastei.
Senczuk, G. & Castiglia, R. & Colangelo, P. & Delaugerre, M. & Corti, C. (2019) -
Sea level oscillations occurred during the Pleistocene have strongly affected islands’ physiography by changing area, elevation, and even the number of islands rising above the sea level. Such changes had direct consequences on island genetic diversity by promoting genetic admixture during glacial marine regressions while fragmentation or even extinctions occurred because of marine transgressions. Here we investigated the effect of islands’ physiographic changes on the mitochondrial diversity of 84 individuals of the Tyrrhenian wall lizard (Podarcis tiliguerta) from different islands and island groups surrounding Corsica and Sardinia. The La Maddalena Archipelago that is the more complex of the studied island groups, showed the highest genetic diversity, while we detected decreasing genetic diversity in island groups with lower number of islands and elevation. The genetic imprint we found seems to have been shaped by eustatic changes occurred in the Mediterranean basin during Mid-Pleistocene times. Indeed, a relevant component of ancient lineages was found on those island groups among which elevation of at least one island allowed populations to survive during the Mid-Pleistocene marine transgressions. In contrast, we found evidence of recent gene flow between populations inhabiting islands or island groups characterized by low elevation. Our results suggest that many features such as number of islands and their elevation, may provide predictive information to identify those islands or “archipelagos” that deserve special attention in terms of conservation priority.
Senczuk, G. & Colangelo, P. & Avramo, V. & Castiglia, R. & Böhme, W. & Corti, C. (2018) -
During the first decades of the last century, an enigmatic extinction was documented to have occurred on the small Mediterranean island of Santo Stefano in the Pontine Archipelago. Although islands are fascinating systems for studying microevolutionary processes, they may nevertheless host unstable communities that make their populations particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic effects and, ultimately, extinction. Here, we investigated the variation of head morphology of 374 individuals of Podarcis siculus from mainland Italy, Sicily and the Pontine Archipelago, using geometric morphometrics. We also included in the analysis samples of the extinct population of Santo Stefano Island, aiming to shed light on the extinction and provide additional information on the historical biogeography of the Archipelago. We found a strong relationship between morphological differences and phylogeographical structure based on previously published genetic data, indicating that the western Pontine populations seem to be a case of incipient speciation. In addition, the extinct population of Santo Stefano Island clustered in all analyses with the western Pontine populations. The results not only provide information on the evolutionary history of P. siculus, but also lead to broader considerations of taxonomy and conservation.
Senczuk, G. & Colangelo, P. & De Simone, E. & Aloise, G. & Castiglia, R. (2017) -
Background The current distribution of genetic diversity is the result of a vast array of microevolutionary processes, including short-term demographic and ecological mechanisms and long-term allopatric isolation in response to Quaternary climatic fluctuations. We investigated past processes that drove the population differentiation and spatial genetic distribution of the Italian wall lizard Podarcis siculus by means of sequences of mitochondrial cytb (n = 277 from 115 localities) and nuclear mc1r and β-fibint7genes (n = 262 and n = 91, respectively) from all its distribution range. The pattern emerging from the genetic data was compared with current and past (last glacial maximum) species distribution modeling (SDM). Results We identified seven deeply divergent parapatric clades which presumably remained isolated in different refugia scattered mainly throughout the Tyrrhenian coast. Conversely, the Adriatic coast showed only two haplogroups with low genetic variability. These results appear to agree with the SDM prediction at the last glacial maximum (LGM) indicating a narrow area of habitat suitability along the Tyrrhenian coast and much lower suitability along the Adriatic one. However, the considerable land exposure of the Adriatic coastline favored a glacial colonization of the Balkan Peninsula. Conclusions Our population-level historical demography showed a common trend consistent with glacial expansions and regional persistence during the last glacial maximum. This complex genetic signature appears to be inconsistent with the expectation of the expansion-contraction model and post-LGM (re)colonizations from southern refugia. Hence it is one of an increasing number of cases in which these assumptions are not met, indicating that long-term fragmentation and pre-LGM events such as glacial persistence were more prominent in shaping genetic variation in this temperate species.
Senczuk, G. & Colangelo, P. & Simone, E. de & Aloise, G. & Castiglia, R. (2016) -
The current genetic distribution of species inhabiting the Mediterranean basin is the result of a vast array of microevolutionary processes, including short-term demographic and ecological mechanisms and long-term allopatric isolation in response to Quaternary climatic fluctuation. The Italian peninsula is considered an important hotspot of intraspecific diversity, having played as refugial area during Pleistocene glacial phases. Here, we investigated past processes that drove the population differentiation and spatial genetic distribution of the Italian wall lizard Podarcis siculus by means of sequences of mitochondrial (cytb, n = 277) and nuclear (mc1r, n = 262) genes from all its distribution range. The pattern emerging from the genetic data was corroborated by current and past (last glacial maximum) species distribution modeling (SDM). The observed mtDNA genetic diversity is, to the best of our knowledge, among the highest ever observed in any vertebrate species from the area. We identified seven parapatric clades which presumably remained isolated in different refugia scattered mainly throughout the Tyrrhenian coast. Conversely, the Adriatic coast showed only two haplogroups with low genetic variability. These results appear to agree with the SDM prediction indicating a narrow area of habitat suitability along the Tyrrhenian coast and much lower suitability along the Adriatic one. However, the considerable land exposure of the Adriatic coastline favored a glacial colonization of the Balkan Peninsula. Our population-level historical demography showed a common trend consistent with glacial expansions and regional persistence during the last glacial maximum (LGM). This complex genetic signature appears to be distant from the expectation of the expansion- contraction model and post-LGM (re)colonizations from southern refugia. Hence it is one of an increasing number of cases in which these assumptions are not met, indicating that long-term fragmentation and pre-LGM events such as glacial persistence were more prominent in shaping genetic variation in this temperate species.
Senczuk, G. & Harris, D.J. & Castiglia, R. & Mizan, V.L. & Colangelo, P. & Canestrelli, D. & Salvi, D. (2019) -
Aim Emergence of coastal lowlands during Pleistocene ice ages might have provided conditions for glacial expansions (demographic and spatial), rather than contraction, of coastal populations of temperate species. Here, we tested these predictions in the insular endemic Sicilian wall lizard Podarcis wagleriana. Location Sicily and neighbouring islands. Methods We sampled 179 individuals from 45 localities across the whole range of P. wagleriana. We investigated demographic and spatial variations through time using Bayesian coalescent models (Bayesian phylogeographic reconstruction, Extended Bayesian Skyline plots, Isolation‐with‐migration models) based on multilocus DNA sequence data. We used species distribution modelling to reconstruct present and past habitat suitability. Results We found two main lineages distributed in the east and west portions of the current species range and a third lineage restricted to a small area in the north of Sicily. Multiple lines of evidence from palaeogeographic (shorelines), palaeoclimatic (species distribution models), and multilocus genetic data (demographic and spatial Bayesian reconstructions) indicate that these lineages originated in distinct refugia, located in the north‐western and south‐eastern coastal lowlands, during Middle Pleistocene interglacial phases, and came into secondary contact following demographic and spatial expansions during the last glacial phase. Main conclusions This scenario of interglacial contraction and glacial expansion is in sharp contrast with patterns commonly observed in temperate species on the continent but parallels recent findings on other Mediterranean island endemics. Such a reverse expansion–contraction (EC) dynamic has been likely associated with glacial increases of climatically suitable coastal lowlands, suggesting this might be a general pattern in Mediterranean island species and also in other coastal regions strongly affected by glacial marine regressions during glacial episodes. This study provides explicit predictions and some methodological recommendations for testing the reverse EC model in other region and taxa.
Senczuk, G. & Havenstein, K. & Milana, V. & Ripa, C. & Simone, E. de & Tiedemann, R. & Castiglia, R. (2018) -
Groups of proximate continental islands may conceal more tangled phylogeographic patterns than oceanic archipelagos as a consequence of repeated sea level changes, which allow populations to experience gene flow during periods of low sea level stands and isolation by vicariant mechanisms during periods of high sea level stands. Here, we describe for the first time an ancient and diverging lineage of the Italian wall lizard Podarcis siculus from the western Pontine Islands. We used nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences of 156 individuals with the aim of unraveling their phylogenetic position, while microsatellite loci were used to compare several a priori insular biogeographic models of migration with empirical data. Our results suggest that the western Pontine populations colonized the islands early during their Pliocene volcanic formation, while populations from the eastern Pontine Islands seem to have been introduced recently. The inter-island genetic makeup suggests an important role of historical migration, probably due to glacial land bridges connecting islands followed by a recent vicariant mechanism of isolation. Moreover, the most supported migration model predicted higher gene flow among islands sharing a longitudinal arrangement. Considering the threatened status of small insular endemic populations, we suggest this new evolutionarily independent unit be given priority in conservation efforts.
Sende, E.N. (2011) -
Sengoku, S. (1973) -
Senn, D.G. (1968) -
Senn, D.G. (1970) -
Senn, D.G. & Farner, H.-P. (1977) -
A comparative study on the ontogenesis of the vertebrate central nervous system elucidates a unique situation in caudate amphibians: their fully differentiated structure is a pattern that is a transitory early embryonic phase in other vertebrates.
Seoane, V.L. (1877) -
Serén, N. & Megia-Palma, E. & Simcic, T. & Krofel, M. & Guarino, F.M. & Pinho, C. & Zagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2023) -
Aim: Physiological and metabolic performance are key mediators of the functional response of species to environmental change. Few environments offer such a multi-faceted array of stressors as high-altitude habitats, which differ markedly in temperature, water availability, UV radiation and oxygen pressure compared to low-altitude habitats. Species that inhabit large altitudinal gradients are thus excellent models to study how organisms respond to environmental variation. -- Location: Tenerife island, Canary Islands archipelago (Spain). -- Taxon: Tenerife lizard [Gallotia galloti, Lacertidae). -- Methods: We integrated data on age structure, thermal and hydric regulatory behaviour and four metabolic and stress-related biomarkers for an insular lizard that inhabits an extreme altitudinal range (sea level to 3700ma.s.l.), to understand how an ectotherms` age, ecophysiology and metabolism can be affected by extreme environmental variation. -- Results: We found marked differences in metabolic stress markers associated with altitude (particularly in the abundance of carbonyl metabolites and relative telomere length), but without a linear pattern along the altitudinal dine. Contrary to expectations, longer telomeres and lower carbonyl content were detected at the highest altitude, suggesting reduced stress in these populations. Evaporative water loss differed between populations but did not follow a linear altitudinal gradient. Lizard age structure or thermal physiological performance did not markedly change across different altitudes. Mixed signals in life-history and thermal ecology across populations and altitude suggest complex responses to variable conditions across altitude in this species. -- Main Conclusions: Our integrative study of multiple functional traits demonstrated that adaptation to highly divergent environmental conditions in this lizard is potentially linked to an interplay between plasticity and local adaptation variably associated with different functional traits.
Serrano-Eizaguerri, F.J. (2000) -
Serrano, F. & Diaz-Ricaurte, J.C. (2019) -
Serrano, F.J. (2012) -
Serre Collet (2018) -
Serre Collet, F. (2018) -
Serres, M. de (1822) -
Seva, E. (1984) -
The resource partitioning between two abundant psammophile lizard species: Acanthodactylus erythrurus and Psammodromus algirus, was studied in a coastal sand area of Eastern Spain. We have studied the resource partitioning on the three fundamental niche dimensions, space, food and time, to which we have added the thermic dimension. In two different seasons, 1980 and 1982, significative trophic differences in A. erythrurus are found, and it can atribute to precipitation differences. The intraspecific variation, by size classes, of the trophic dimension in A. erythrurus is apparent, and it is deffined as a myrmecophagic species in juvenile stages. In Ps. algirus there is not such variation. Temporal niche breadth, by hours, in the five months, differs clearly from one species to another. Trophically, Ps. algirus behaves like the more euriphagic species. Both species are fundamentally separated by the food type and food size, further, the horary regime of activity. Other dimensions (space, cloacal temperatures and seasonal time), show very high overlap.
Seva, E. (1988) -
Seva, E. & Escarré i Esteve, A. (1980) -
he spatial and temporal distribution by sex and size classes of the fringe-toed lizard (Acanthodactylus erythrurus, Schinz) are described here. This paper is a study of a reptile population in the sand dune ecosystem at El Saladar beach (Alicante, Spain). Three factors have been considered in the spatial distribution: slope, cover and different kinds of vegetation. As for the time factor in our observations, we have noted daily and seasonal changes. The species prefers low slope spots, covered in 10% and more, and places with types I and III for vegetation. Females (more adults than juveniles) reject medium and great slope zones. As for cover, male juveniles and adult females select zones covered in 30%. Type I vegetation is occupied by adult females preferably, because of the trophic and reproductive requirements. Type III is prefered by juvenile females and adult males. Type IV is neutral and type II is always depreciated. In activity pattern, juvenile individuals begin the daily activity before adult ones, except in April and July. In summer months, the activity curve appears bimodal because of the thermoregulation exigences, with a first peak greater than the second. In spring and fall months, the curve is unimodal. In winter months the activity continues in a few juveniles when the air temperature is highest in the day Sex ratio varies progressively between April and July.
Seva, E. & Ferrandis, E. & Escarré, A. (1982) -
The theoretical numbers of individual permanence for a long term, contrast with the random distribution numbers, and such differences, point at the species trend for concrete kinds of substrate, vegetation types, slope, vegetation cover and so on. The same analysis, applied to goings between the 4 types of vegetation in the plot, show no difference between the theoretical last distribution and the actual one, being constant the population density.
Sevianu, E. & Petrisor, M. & Malos, C.-V. & Hartel, T. (2022) -
Anthropic induced changes in land use modify the habitat and microhabitat conditions for many species. Afforestation and grazing abandonment in steppe-like grasslands alters the characteristics of open natural areas. We aim to understand the habitat preferences of the European Green lizard in a nature reserve affected by both processes, using CORINE land cover and data recorded in the field. The results show that the species prefers sparsely shrubbed areas and edge habitat but avoids the interior of the pine plantation and totally open grassland. On microhabitat scale, most preferred structures were shrubs and logs. CORINE Landover data yields statistically less robust information than the microhabitat features recorded in the field Management measures should aim to increase habitat heterogeneity and to decrease compact afforested areas.
Sevinç, M. & Ugurtas, I.H. (2001) -
Sevinc, M. & Ugurtas, I.H. (2008) -
General morphology and size of erythrocytes of the some lacertid lizards, Lacerta trilineata, L. viridis, L. taurica and L. sicula (Lacertidae), living in Turkey was studied using Wright`s technique. The longest erythrocytes were found in L. sicula and the shortest ones in L. trilineata.
Sevinc, M. & Ugurtas, I.H. & Akkaya, A. (2009) -
General morphology and size of erythrocytes of some lacertid lizards. Ophisops elegans, Lacerta cappodocica, Anatololacerta danfordi and Podarcis muralis, living in Turkey was studied using technique. The longest erythrocytes and nuclei were measured in O. elegans and the shortest ones in L cappodocica. The widest erythrocytes were recorded ill P. muralis and the narrowest ones in L. cappodocica, The widest nuclei were found in O. elegans mid the narrowest ones in L cappodocica.
Sevinc, M. & Ugurtas, I.H. & Yildirimhan, H,.S, (2000) -
In this study, which was carried out in July 1998, erythrocyte sizes of Lacerta rudis were examined. The L. rudis specimens were collected from Zigana Pass (Trabzon) at an altitude of 1820 m. Blood smears were prepared at Zigana Pass. Mature erythrocytes (entire cell) and their nuclei lengths and widths were measured by means of an ocular micrometer at a total magnification of 1600x
Sey, O. (1964) -
Shacham, B. & Federman, R. & Lahav-Ginott, S. & Werner, Y. (2016) -
The geographical distribution of reptiles is known to be climate dependent. Our analysis of literature data from the Palearctic confirmed that snakes, as a group (186 species), tend to extend further to the north, into cooler climate, than lizards (460 species). This has also been reported for the Nearctic. On a smaller scale, as a model, we investigated the expansion of reptiles from the warm southern desert of Israel northwards along the Jordan valley into cooler climate, based on 587 locality records of 17 species. It transpired that the snakes significantly extend further to the north than the lizards, paralleling and exemplifying the global scale. The ability of snakes to inhabit relatively cooler climates appears to accord with three physiological traits of snakes: lower optimal body temperatures, absence of temperature-dependent sex determination, and ability to thrive on infrequent meals.
Shacham, B. & Shamoon, H. & Sorek, M. & Dan, H. & (2018) -
Shadbolt, T. & Sainsbury, T. (2021) -
Shamgunova, R.R. & Starikov, V.P. (2008) -
Shammakov, S. (1981) -
Шаммаков С. (1981) -
Shammokov, S. (1969) -
Shamsi, H. & Karinzadegan, H. (2017) -
Background and Objective: Environmental factors affecting the species are one of the most important topics in the science of ecology and understanding the influences of environmental variables can help the protection of species especially endangered species. The purpose of this study was to identify habitat factors influencing the presence of lizard habitat in Alvand protected area. Method: Alvand protected area; with 8618 hectares survey is located in central province and Khomein city. In this paper, the studied area, in terms of geomorphology is divided to three types including, plain, hillside and mountainous area. Then all three type of habitats divided to cells with 5050 size in Arc GIs 9.3, and ultimately 10 percent of these cells are selected randomly and will be considered and analyzed Findings: The results of GGE biplot software for three groups of habitat plains, foothills, and mountainside showed that the most presence in plains habitat is dependent to Ophisops elegans species that variables which influence the presence of these species are: the richness of vegetation, soil content, and the density of the vegetation and grit is the worst parameter for the presence of this species. In mountainside habitat, the most presence is dependent to the species Ophisops elegans and Paraloudakia Caucasia. And the most important parameter for Paraloudakia Caucasia is height and the percent of grift. Also for mountainside habitat species like Ophisops elegans, Paraloudakia Caucasia and Loudakia nupta had the most presence. Discussion and Conclusion: Results obtained from this study illustrated that especially Ophisops elegans and Paraloudakia Caucasia species with percent of rock and Loudakia nupta with vegitation enrichment, the density of vegetation, the percent of grit, and height, respectively showed presence.
Shaner, P.J.L. & Chen, Y.R. & Lin, J.W. & Kolbe, J.J. & Lin, S.M. (2013) -
Heterozygosity-fitness correlations (HFCs) provide insights into the genetic bases of individual fitness variation in natural populations. However, despite decades of study, the biological significance of HFCs is still under debate. In this study, we investigated HFCs in a large population of the sexually dimorphic lizard Takydromus viridipunctatus (Lacertidae). Because of the high prevalence of parasitism from trombiculid mites in this lizard, we expect individual fitness (i.e., survival) to decrease with increasing parasite load. Furthermore, because morphological asymmetry is likely to influence individuals` mobility (i.e., limb asymmetry) and male biting ability during copulation (i.e., head asymmetry) in this species, we also hypothesize that individual fitness should decrease with increasing morphological asymmetry. Although we did not formally test the relationship between morphological asymmetry and fitness in this lizard, we demonstrated that survival decreased with increasing parasite load using a capture-mark-recapture data set. We used a separate sample of 140 lizards to test the correlations between individual heterozygosity (i.e., standardized mean d2 and HL based on 10 microsatellite loci) and the two fitness traits (i.e., parasite load and morphological asymmetry). We also evaluated and excluded the possibility that single-locus effects produced spurious HFCs. Our results suggest male-only, negative correlations between individual heterozygosity and parasite load and between individual heterozygosity and asymmetry, suggesting sex-specific, positive HFCs. Male T. viridipunctatus with higher heterozygosity tend to have lower parasite loads (i.e., higher survival) and lower asymmetry, providing a rare example of HFC in reptiles.
Shani, E. (1986) -
Shannon, F.A. (1956) -
Sharifi, M. & Papenfuss, T. (2009) -
Sharifi, M. & Papenfuss, T. & Anderson, S. & Bafti, S.S. (2009) -
Sharma, R.C. (2002) -
Sharpilo, V.P. (1961) -
Sharpilo, V.P. & Biserkov, V.V. & Kostadinova, A. & Behnke, J.M. & Kuzmin, Y.I. (2001) -
We studied variation in the structure of component communities of helminths in sand lizards, Lacerta agilis, from 30 localities in the Ukraine and Bulgaria. Thirty-five separate samples of lizards, with a total of 661 completely censused infracommunities, yielded 30 helminth species (4 cestodes, 10 trematodes, 3 acanthocephalans and 13 nematodes). In its range within the Ukraine, L. agilis serves as the final host for 13 species of which only 3 (S. lacertae, S. hoffmanni and P. molini) can be considered as lizard specialists. A characteristic feature of these helminth component communities was the large proportion of heteroxeneous helminth species for which L. agilis serves as paratenic host. Sand lizards in the meadow steppeland zone were primarily parasitized by larval helminths that represented a major proportion of the total number of all worms recovered while those sampled in the grassland/forest transition zone were characterized by substantially higher proportions of adult helminths using lizards as final hosts. However, L. agilis was parasitized by a much higher proportion of lizard specialists in the ‘typical` habitats of the meadow steppeland zone as opposed to those located in ‘marginal` habitats in the grassland/forest transition zone, where helminths were shared to a greater extent with amphibian hosts.
Shchepotev, N.V. (1948) -
Shchepotev, N.V. (1952) -
Shechenko, N.N. & Barabashova, V.N. (1958) -
Shelkovnikov, A.B (1911) -
Shen, Q. & Li, J. & Xu, P. & Li, W. & Zhuang, G. & Wang, Y. (2017) -
Chinese lizards (Eremias argus) were exposed to separated R-(-)-triadimefon, S-(+)-triadimefon and racemic triadimefon to evaluate enantioselective accumulation of triadimefon. After single oral administration of R-(-)-triadimefon, S-(+)-triadimefon and racemic triadimefon, the time-concentration curves in different tissues were found to be different. Triadimefon enantiomers crossed the blood-brain barrier and brain is a main target organ. The residues of triadimefon enantiomers in fat were highest after 24 h indicating that fat was the main tissue of accumulation. In racemic triadimefon exposure group, the enantiomer fractions of R-(-)-triadimefon in different tissues showed that the differences between R-(-)-triadimefon and S-(+)-triadimefon were significant in absorption and metabolism, but the differences became smaller in exclusion and accumulation. From the results of mathematical models, S-(+)-triadimefon was absorbed and eliminated faster than R-(-)-triadimefon, and R-(-)-triadimefon was easily distributed in the tissues and more easily converted into its metabolites. Furthermore, among the four enantiomers of triadimenol, SR-(-)-triadimenol produced by S-(+)-triadimefon may have the highest fungicidal activity and the strongest biological toxicity, RR-(+)-triadimenol produced by R-(-)-triadimefon was most likely to bioaccumulate in lizard. Identifying toxicological effects and dose-response relationship of SR-(-)-triadimenol and RR-(+)-triadimenol will help fully assess the risk of TF enantiomers use in the future. The results enrich and supplement the knowledge of the environmental fate of triadimefon enantiomers.
Shenbrot, G.I. & Kulikova, G.S. (1985) -
Shepilo, V. (1998) -
Sheppard, L. & Bellairs, A. D´A. (1972) -
Sheppard, R. (1804) -
Sherpa, S. & Paris, J.R. & Silva-Rocha, I. & Canio, V. di & Carretero, M.A. & Ficetola, G.F. & Salvi, D. (2023) -
Experimental introductions of species have provided some of the most tractable examples of rapid phenotypic changes, which may reflect plasticity, the impact of stochastic processes, or the action of natural selection. Yet to date, very few studies have investigated the neutral and potentially adaptive genetic impacts of experimental introductions. We dissect the role of these processes in shaping the population differentiation of wall lizards in three Croatian islands (Susac, Pod Kopiste, and Pod Mrcaru), including the islet of Pod Mrcaru, where experimentally introduced lizards underwent rapid (~30 generations) phenotypic changes associated with a shift from an insectivorous to a plant-based diet. Using a genomic approach (~82,000 ddRAD loci), we confirmed a founder effect during introduction and very low neutral genetic differentiation between the introduced population and its source. However, genetic depletion did not prevent rapid population growth, as the introduced lizards exhibited population genetic signals of expansion and are known to have reached a high density. Our genome-scan analysis identified just a handful of loci showing large allelic shifts between ecologically divergent populations. This low overall signal of selection suggests that the extreme phenotypic differences observed among populations are determined by a small number of large-effect loci and/or that phenotypic plasticity plays a major role in phenotypic changes. Nonetheless, functional annotation of the outlier loci revealed some candidate genes relevant to diet-induced adaptation, in agreement with the hypothesis of directional selection. Our study provides important insights on the evolutionary potential of bottlenecked populations in response to new selective pressures on short ecological timescales.
Sherpa, S. & Salvi, D. & Silva-Rocha, I. & Capblanco, T. & Paris, J.R. & Carretero, M.A. & Ficetola, G.F. (2023) -
Aim: The Mediterranean Basin is a global biodiversity hotspot and has one of the longest histories of human–biota interactions. Islands host a large fraction of Mediterranean diversity and endemism, but the relative importance of natural versus human-mediated colonisation processes in shaping the distribution and genetic structure of Mediterranean island fauna remains poorly understood. Here, we combine population genomics, demographic models and palaeoshoreline reconstructions to establish the island-colonisation dynamics of wall lizards in Mediterranean archipelagos. Location: Four Mediterranean archipelagos in Italy and Croatia. Taxon: The wall lizard Podarcis siculus. Methods: We used ddRAD sequencing to genotype 140 lizards from 23 island and mainland populations. Analyses of admixture and site frequency spectra were used to reconstruct population structure, demographic history and variation of gene flow through time. Genomic results were integrated with palaeogeographical reconstructions and were compared to archaeological evidence of human presence on these islands. Results: Although many island populations of this species are assumed to be non-native, we find that many islands were colonised long before any known human settlements (230,000–12,000 years ago). This natural colonisation most likely occurred through land bridges during glacial marine regression or by over-sea rafting. On the other hand, islands distant from the continent were often colonised recently, and some of the estimated island colonisation times match historical records of human arrival. We also determine that long-established island populations generally show lower genetic diversity compared to proximate mainland populations, contrary to recently colonised islands that must have experienced higher rates of post-colonisation gene flow. Main Conclusion: Our integrated approach provides us with the power to accurately quantify the origin, timing and mode of island colonisation. This framework helps to clarify the biogeographical and evolutionary history of island populations, with important implications for conservation and management of island biodiversity.
Shestopal, A.A. & Rustamov, E.A. (2018) -
The latest changes in the taxonomy of amphibians and reptiles are analyzed in the work, among them, in particular, toads, frogs, tortoises, geckoes, agamas, lacertids, boas and colubrids. A new list is published, which provides information for 100 species and subspecies: 6 species of amphibians and 94 species of reptiles (6 turtles, 58 lizards, 30 snakes). The conservation status of reptiles in Turkmenistan was revised according to the IUCN assessments.
А.А. Шестопал & Э.А. Рустамов (2018) -
Проанализированы результаты современных таксономических ревизий амфи- бий и рептилий, в частности, жаб и лягушек, черепах, агамовых, гекконовых, круглопалых, сицнковых и настоящих ящериц, а также ложноногих и ужеобраз- ных змей. Публикуется новых список видов, включающий в себя информацию о 100 видах и подвидах: 6 видов амфибий и 94 вида рептилий (6 видов черепах, 58 видов ящериц и 30 видов змей). Пересмотрен и установлен природоохранный статус пресмыкающихся Туркменистана в соответствии с критериями МСОП.
The work provides new information on the distribution and abundance of reptiles in some landscapes of Turkmenistan. The results of the study are following: the registration of new records to clarify the distribution; the discovery of the Afghan awl-headed snake (Lythorhynchus ridgewyi) on the Kaplankyr chink, which moves the boundary of the species distribution from the previously known nearest places (in the vicinity of the village of Kukurtli (former Sulfur Plant) and from the solonchak hollows of Unguz (Shestopal, Akgaev, 2013) to 220 km to the north-west; sunwatcher living in the north of Turkmenistan is identified as nominate subspecies — Phrynocephalus helioscopus helioscopus. Data on the number of reptiles are provided, the most interesting of them are observations in the southern part of the Sarykamysh depression. The density of desert species such as Trapelus sanguinolentus aralensis) and (Eremias intermedia) is twice higher and for Eremias lineolata is 20-times higher in comparison with adjoining territories.
A.A. Shestopal & E.A. Rustamov (2018) -
В статье приводится новая информация о распространении и численности земноводных и пресмыкающихся в различных ландшафтах Туркмениста- на. Получены следующие результаты: зарегистрированы новые находки, уточняющие распространение рептилий; новая важная находка афганского литоринха Lythorhynchus ridgewayi на чинке Капланкыр отодвигает грани- цу распространения вида от ранее известных ближайших мест его встреч в окрестностях села Кукуртли (бывший Серный завод) и от солончаковых впадин Унгуза на 220 км к северо-западу; подвид такырной круглоголовки, обитающей на севере Туркменистана, идентифицирован как номинатив- ный — Phrynocephalus helioscopus helioscopus. Получены сведения по чис- ленности рептилий, из которых наиболее интересные наблюдались нами при увеличении водной поверхности озера в южной части Сарыкамышской впадины, где в прибрежной полосе до 300 м плотность ряда пустынных видов, таких как степная агама Trapelus sanguinolentus aralensis и средняя ящурка Eremias intermedia увеличена почти двукратно, а линейчатой ящур- ки Eremias lineolata — 20-кратно.
Shi, L. & Yang, J. & Hou, M.-Z. & Zhao, H. & Dong, B.-J. & Xiong, J.-L. & Wang, X.-J. & Wang, X.H (2007) -
Shibata, Y. (1966) -
Shimansky, A.M. (1969) -
Shimono, T. & Kennedy, D.T. & Kitai, S.T. (1970) -
Shine, R. & Wapstra, E. & Olsson, M. (2018) -
Squamate embryos require weeks of high temperature to complete development, with the result that cool climatic areas are dominated by viviparous taxa (in which gravid females can sun-bask to keep embryos warm) rather than oviparous taxa (which rely on warm soil to incubate their eggs). How, then, can some oviparous taxa reproduce successfully in cool climates – especially late in summer, when soil temperatures are falling? Near the northern limit of their distribution (in Sweden), sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) shift tactics seasonally, such that the eggs in late clutches complete development more quickly (when incubated at a standard temperature) than do those of early clutches. That acceleration is achieved by a reduction in egg size and by an increase in the duration of uterine retention of eggs (especially, after cool weather). Our results clarify the ability of oviparous reptiles to reproduce successfully in cool climates and suggest a novel advantage to reptilian viviparity in such conditions: by maintaining high body temperatures, viviparous females may escape the need to reduce offspring size in late-season litters.
Shlyakhtin, G.V. & Tabachishin, V.G. & Yermokhin, M.V. (2019) -
The feeding of Lacerta agilis was studied by means of the content analysis of lizards` stomachs conducted in the vicinity of Saratov City from April till September 1983, 2003 and 2007. The maximum daily diet was characteristic in July and reached 2.5–2.7 g/day, while the minimum one was in April and September (1.1–1.2 g/day). The highest and lowest numbers of food objects were recorded in May and September, respectively. Insects are the basic food objects of L. agilis, their occurrence frequency being 100% during the whole active-life period. Coleoptera representatives predominated in the diet (25.4–40.5% by number, 43.5–70.9% by weight). The fractions of Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera, etc. were somewhat lower. Well-flying and quickly-moving insects predominated in the food spectrum of L. agilis. Rather many invertebrates with cryptic colour, poisonous, stinging and badly smelt ones were frequently met among the nutrition objects. Moreover, vegetable remains (seeds, leaves, flower fragments etc.) and various small stones to act probably as gastrolytes were found in many stomachs.
Shlyakhtin, G.V. & Tabachishin, V.G. & Zavialov, E.V. (2006) -
The nutrition of Lacerta agilis was studied by means of stomach content analysis per- formed in the vicinity of Saratov from April till September, 1981 – 1984 and 2002 – 2003. Insects are the main food (a 100% occurrence during the whole active-life pe- riod). Of them, representatives of Coleoptera predominated (25.4 – 40.5% by number, 43.5 – 70.9% by weight). Representatives of Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera, Ho- moptera, Hemiptera и Orthoptera are subdominants in the reptile diet in a number of months. Well-flying and quickly-running animals predominate over sedentary ones in the nutrition range. There were rather many invertebrates with cryptic color, venomous, stinging and strongly-smelling ones among the nutrition objects. Moreover, vegetable remains (seeds, leaves, flower fragments etc.) and various small stones (possibly acting as gastrolytes) were met in many stomachs.
Ручин А.Б., Лапшин А.С., Рыжов М.К. (2006) -
Фауна змей Среднего Поволжья включает 9 видов (Бакиев, Маленев, 1996). Республика Мордовия (РМ), несмотря на небольшие размеры ее территории (протяженность с запада на восток около 280 км, с севера на юг - от 80 до 140 км), характеризуется значительным ландшафтным разнообразием (География Мордовской АССР, 1983). По характеру рельефа территория республики разделяется на две части, между которыми нет резких переходов: западная - низменная (с водной системой р. Мокша) и восточная - холмистая (система р. Сура). Наименее изученной группой позвоночных, обитающих на территории Мордовии, являются пресмыкающиеся. По данным разных авторов, в Мордовии обитает от 6 до 8 видов рептилий (Лапшин и др., 1996; Каменев и др., 2000; Кузнецов и др., 2000). Целью нашей работы являлось уточнение видового состава змей и составление карт их распространения в Мордовии.
Shlyakhtin, G.V. & Tabachishin, V.G. & Zavyalov, E.V. (1997) -
Shnitnikov, V.N. (1928) -
Showler, D.A. (1996) -
Showler, D.A. & Aldus, N. & Parmenter, J. (2005) -
Showler, D.S. (2018) -
Taxonomy dependent, four amphibian (three toads and a frog) and 57 reptile species (a tortoise, 36 lizards and 20 snakes) appear confirmed as occurring within the Republic of Uzbekistan. One of these species, Szczerbak’s even-fingered gecko Alsophylax szczerbaki, has perhaps been extirpated. The presence of a further two taxa, i.e., long-legged bent-toed gecko Tenuidactylus longipes and multi-ocellated racerunner Eremias multiocellata is unclear (but both probably absent), whilst the standing of Turkestan salamander Hynobius turkestanicus remains an enigma. Species distributions in Uzbekistan are summarised based on a literature review supplemented by recent field observations.
Shu-lan, L., Xin, G., Miao, W., Wen-ge, Z., Hui, C. (2008) -
Objective To study the localization and morphology of 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT),somatostatin(SS),gastrin(Gas),glucagon(Glu),substance P(SP),pancreatic polypeptide(PP) endocrine cells in the digestive tract of Eremias argus.Methods The ABC(avidin-biotin compex method) immunohistochemical method was used. Results 5-HT cells distributed more widely than the other five kinds of endocrine cells in the digestive tract,and they were observed throughout the digestive tract,from the esophagus to the rectum.In addition,the density of 5-HT cells was the highest in the jejunum.SS cells were not found in the esophagus or the rectum.The distributive density of SS cells was the highest in the stomach.Gas cells and PP cells distributed in the pyloricus and the small intestine with the highest density in the duodenum.Glu cells distributed mainly in the pyloricus,duodenum and jejunum,the distributive density in the pyloricus was higher than other part obviously.We did not find any SP cell in the digestive tract of Eremias argus.Conclusion The five kinds of endocrine cells which we studied in this paper were mainly round and shuttled-shape,which widely lied between epithelial cells,between glandular epithelial cells and at the bottom of epithelia.The distributive density of endocrine cells was related to its feeding habit and living environment.
Shufeldt, R.W. (1900) -
Shugurov, A.M. (1912) -
Sicilia, A. & Violani, C. & Zava, B. (2001) -
Predation on juveniles of Discoglossus pictus by Podarcis sicula has been recorded for the first time in Sicily with photographic report.
Sideris, G. & Duperault, A. (2003) -
Sideris, G. & Jasper, K. (2004) -
Siebenrock, F. (1994) -
Siebold, M. (2007) -
Siedler, T. (2002) -
Siegel, A.R. (1963) -
Siliceo, I. & Díaz, J.A. (2010) -
Whereas the range size of endangered species is undoubtfuly useful to predict risk of extinction, the role of their life-history characteristics is much less clear, and their effects may depend on the nature of the threatening factors. Such factors, for instance, are known to be different on islands and on the mainland. We used phylogenetically based statistical analyses to study the relationships among conservation status, insularity, range size, and life-history traits in a clade of Western Palaearctic lacertids including insular and continental species. These lizards are ecologically similar, but they show wide variation in life-history traits and vulnerability to extinction. Insular species of a given size had smaller clutches than mainland ones. Degree of threat was best predicted by a logistic regression including range size, insularity, clutch size, and the insularity × clutch size interaction. On the mainland, but not on islands, threatened species had smaller clutches than non-threatened ones. On islands, small clutch size is probably an adaptive trait, and it might predispose certain species to extinction, but the intrinsic characteristics of such species remain unclear. However, small clutch size was a good predictor of extinction risk on the mainland, having evolved most frequently in late maturing species from montane habitats in which climatic conditions limit their reproductive output and increase their vulnerability to stochastic hazards or habitat fragmentation.
Silledro, N. & Biaggini, M. & Corti, C. (2018) -
We analysed the species–area relationship and structural connectivity among islands of La Maddalena Archipelago (Italy), a numerous group of small islands very close to Sardinia. We related species richness (amphibians and reptiles) to several environmental factors (area; number of unique habitats; topographical variables; and distances of each island to Sardinia, to the nearest island and to the nearest large island) using generalized additive models and connectivity analysis by graph theory and the software Conefor 2.6. Using each method, we performed several comparisons: considering all species; excluding species with a high exchange rate (‘in transit’); including only autochthonous species; and including species present on large islands. We also excluded, in turn, all amphibians; all Scincidae; all Gekkonidae; all Lacertidae; all Colubridae; and one species in turn. Except in the case of species present on large islands, all models selected the same variables: ruggedness standard deviation, area, number of unique habitats, and mean and maximal elevation. When excluding Sardinia, the highest connectivity value corresponded to the largest islands. Species richness is related to island complexity (habitat diversity and topographical complexity) and not simply to area. Network connectivity is dominated by the internal connectivity of the largest islands, but small islands are essential to maintain the network connectivity and endemicity.
Sillero, N. (2010) -
Three reptile species were found in Pessegueiro Island (west coast of Portugal): Chalcides bedriagai, Podarcis carbonelli and Blanus cinereus. The first two are confirmations of species already known, but the discovery of B. cinereus is the first record of an insular population in Portugal. The species richness of the island is higher than the expected by its extension. The conservation status of vegetation on the island is poor but the island is nevertheless included in the Natural Park Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina.
Sillero, N. & Argana, E. & Freitas, S. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Arakelyan, M. & Corti, C. & Carretero, M.A. (2018) -
Factors driving the spatial patterns of communities of sedentary organisms are still poorly understood. In this context parthenogenetic animals are useful to test the contribution of sexual and interspecific interactions on spatial patterns. As such, mixed communities of asexual and sexual species are expected to be spatially organized as a single sexual species, with sexes randomly distributed and mutually independent. During the reproductive period, we determined the instantaneous spatial structure in a community of Darevskia rock lizards from Armenia composed of one sexual species (D. valentini), two asexual species (D. armeniaca, D. unisexualis), and their hybrids. We also analysed the specific composition of clusters and the species segregation by habitat. We used the Ripley’s K distance function to measure clustering spatial patterns, and the Delaunay’s triangulation to identify the clusters and their specific composition. We estimated the spatial segregation among species by calculating the overlap between species pairs, by comparing pairwise distances from males to other males and from males to females, and by comparing the frequencies of both sexes and reproduction modes (asexual and sexual) in plant cover and height using log-linear models. Species displayed a clustered spatial structure, with parthenogens (mainly D. armeniaca) or their hybrids in all clusters. Females and males were concentrated in areas with medium plant cover. D. armeniaca and D. valentini were the species with the highest overlap. Males were closer to males than to females. This community displays an instantaneous spatial pattern resembling a population of a single sexual species. Spatial statistics offer new insights to analyse the spatial structure of species communities.
Sillero, N. & Argana, E. & Matos, C. & Correira, E. & Carbeiro, C. & Gomes, V. (2012) -
Sillero, N. & Argana, E. & Matos, C. & Franch, M. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2020) -
Species can occupy different realised niches when sharing the space with other congeneric species or when living in allopatry. Ecological niche models are powerful tools to analyse species niches and their changes over time and space. Analysing how species’ realised niches shift is paramount in ecology. Here, we examine the ecological realised niche of three species of wall lizards in six study areas: three areas where each species occurs alone; and three areas where they occur together in pairs. We compared the species’ realised niches and how they vary depending on species’ coexistence, by quantifying niche overlap between pairs of species or populations with the R package ecospat. For this, we considered three environmental variables (temperature, humidity, and wind speed) recorded at each lizard re-sighting location. Realised niches were very similar when comparing syntopic species occurring in the same study area. However, realised niches differed when comparing conspecific populations across areas. In each of the three areas of syntopy, the less abundant species shift its realised niche. Our study demonstrates that sympatry may shift species’ realised niche.
Sillero, N. & Carretero, M.A. (2010) -
Sillero, N. & Carretero, M.A. (2012) -
While glaciations constituted the major recent paleoclimatic event, inducing multiple oscillations on species’ ranges, future and rapid shifts are expected if global warming predictions are confirmed. Investi-gating the whole temporal spectrum of range shifts is of conservation importance since species suffering contractions during the interglacial periods may continue contracting in a warming scenario; lizards provide excellent models for such analysis. We investigated the historical biogeography of Podarcis car-bonelli, a lacertid lizard endemic to the Western Iberian Peninsula with a fragmented distribution, likely resulting from an important reduction during the Pleistocene and Holocene. We modelled with Maxent its current distribution and projected it to past (Last Interglacial—LIG and Last Glacial Maximum—LGM) and future (2020, 2050 and 2080) scenarios. The consensus models predicted a larger suitable area than the currently occupied, in areas with a high humidity and low maximum temperatures. The LIG model indicated a reduced range restricted to the northern Portuguese coast, and the LGM model, a suitable area larger than the current. After the LGM, areas with suitable climate started regression till present, which is predicted to continue in future, with a northward range shift and a loss of suitable climate from inland zones towards the coast. The range of P. carbonelli may have been oscillating from the northern Portuguese coast to the south and to inland during the Pleistocene. The Portuguese West Atlantic coast, harbouring a substantial part of the species’ genetic diversity, with suitable climate during the LIG and LGM and forecasted to remain in the future, is not currently protected but deserves conservation priority.
Sillero, N. & Carretero, M.A. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Caecero, F. & Rubio, J.L. (2010) -
Sillero, N. & Carretero, M.A. & Garcia-Munoz, E. & Ceacero, F. & Rubio, J.L. (2010) -
The lberian lizard Algyroides marchi is endemic to a small range in the Prebetic Mountains (SE Spain). Current, past and future biogeographic patterns were identified by 1) updating distribution knowledge; 2) calculating models of current potential distribution; and 3) extrapolating these models to past and future climatic scenarios. Climatic variables obtained from the Worldclim series were derived to develop an average model of the species realized niche, from an iterative process with 10 replicates, using the presence-only ecological niche modelling software Maxent. Models were projected to three future scenarios of climatic change (HADCM3, CSIRO, and CCCMA), using two possible economical situations (a2a and b2a) for three years (2020, 2050 and 2080); and two past scenarios (last interglacial and last glacial maximum, the latter with two models). Current distribution models indicate that the species depends on low temperatures and high precipitation. Past models suggest that the species` refuge during the interglacial period was located in the lberian System, the same area where the species is predicted to be distributed in the future. In contrast the distribution during the last glacial maximum was inferred to be spread in the eastern half of the lberian Peninsula. In a non-dispersal scenario, the species will be almost extinct in this century due to clime change.
Sillero, N. & Carretero, M.A. & Goncalves, J.A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Marcal, A. (2010) -
Sillero, N. & Corti, C. & Carretero, M.A. (2016) -
We analysed the home ranges of a community of Darevskia rock lizards composed of a bisexual species (D. valentini), two parthenogens (D. armeniaca and D. unisexualis), and two backcross forms between bisexual and unisexual forms. We estimated home range areas of ink-marked, GPS-located lizards using Minimum Convex Polygon (MCP) and 95% of the locations for those individuals with five or more sightings. The bisexual D. valentini was the species with the largest home ranges, distances travelled, and the most intersections. No differences between unisexual species and backcrosses were recorded for any comparison. In males, home range size and perimeter were related to morphological characteristics. Contrary to what has been described in allopatry, unisexual species showed smaller home ranges and fewer overlaps than sympatric bisexual species. We tentatively suggest that the presence of potential bisexual partners might increase sexual competition among parthenogenetic females while differences in habitat use should also be considered.
Sillero, N. & Gomes, V. & Zagar, A. (2014) -
Sillero, N. & Gonçalves-Seco, L. (2014) -
The analysis of the spatial structure of animal communities requires spatial data to determine the distribution of individuals and their limiting factors. New technologies like very precise GPS as well as satellite imagery and aerial photographs of very high spatial resolution are now available. Data from airborne LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors can provide digital models of ground and vegetation surfaces with pixel sizes of less than 1 m. We present the first study in terrestrial herpetology using LiDAR data. We aim to identify the spatial patterns of a community of four species of lizards (Lacerta schreiberi, Timon lepidus, Podarcis bocagei, and P. hispanica), and to determine how the habitat is influencing the distribution of the species spatially. The study area is located in Northern Portugal. The position of each lizard was recorded during 16 surveys of 1 h with a very precise GPS (error < 1 m). LiDAR data provided digital models of surface, terrain, and normalised height. From these data, we derived slope, ruggedness, orientation, and hill-shading variables. We applied spatial statistics to determine the spatial structure of the community. We computed Maxent ecological niche models to determine the importance of environmental variables. The community and its species presented a clustered distribution. We identified 14 clusters, composed of 1–3 species. Species records showed two distribution patterns, with clusters associated with steep and flat areas. Cluster outliers had the same patterns. Juveniles and subadults were associated with areas of low quality, while sexes used space in similar ways. Maxent models identified suitable habitats across the study area for two species and in the flat areas for the other two species. LiDAR allowed us to understand the local distributions of a lizard community. Remotely sensed data and LiDAR are giving new insights into the study of species ecology. Images of higher spatial resolutions are necessary to map important factors such as refuges.
Sillero, N. & Leerschool, T. & Hollanders, M. & Beukema, W. (2014) -
Sillero, N. & Santos, R. dos & Teodoro, A. & Carretero, M. (2018) -
Home ranges in animals can be estimated by different methods like minimum convexpolygons, characteristic hulls or kernels while correlative ecological niche models(ENMs) are commonly employed for forecasting species’ranges. However, ENMscan also model the distribution of individuals if environmental very high spatial reso-lution data are available. Indeed, remote sensing (RS) can provide images with pixelsizes of few centimetres. Here, we modelled the distribution of individual lizards(Podarcis bocagei) combining aerial-like photographs recorded with a compact cam-era and a matrix of temperature/humidity data-loggers to obtain several environmen-tal layers with very high spatial resolution. We recorded lizards’positions in a20920 m mesocosm with a high precision GPS device (~10 cm of error), multipletimes per day throughout the whole period of daily activity. We built an orthophotomap (pixels of 20 cm2) from camera pictures, a digital surface model, and a land-cover supervised classification map. We recreated climate-like variables by combin-ing data-logger data. For each individual, we calculated the distance to males andfemales, excluding the focal lizard. We computed individual realized niche modelswith Bioclim, GAM, GLM, Maxent and random forest. Models attained a very highevaluation score in most cases. The most contributing variables were related tomicroclimate (isothermality, minimum temperature and humidity) and distance toconspecifics. Our very high spatial resolution models provided robust information onhow space is used by each lizard. Correlative models can identify the most suitableareas inside the home range, similar to core areas estimated from kernel algorithms,but allowed better statistical inference. Overall, RS tools generated high-quality envi-ronmental data, and when combined with ENMs, improved the robustness of the pre-dictions on spatial patterns of small terrestrial animals.
Silva e Vascancelos, D. (2021) -
There is an increasing amount of evidence pointing towards the importance of bacteria and parasites in the ecology and dynamics of host populations. Complex microorganism communities living in intestinal tracts of the animals are known as the gut microbiome. These bacterial communities can impact the host’s fitness, immune system and behavior, whereas microbiome composition and diversity can be influenced by countless factors such as the host’s taxonomy, habitat, diet and social interactions with other individuals. In turn, blood parasites have a fundamental role in the ecosystem, weakening host fitness and reproductive ability, and thereby influencing population dynamics. Five lacertid lizard species were used for the present work, three endemic and two introduced: in Parque das Nações, Lisbon, the invasive Podarcis siculus (n=20) and the native Podarcis virescens (n=22); another introduced species, Teira dugesii (n=20), was captured from a distinct area of Lisbon (9 kilometres from the Parque das Naçoes); and in Moledo, Northern Portugal, two endemic and syntopic species were studied – Podarcis bocagei (n=33) and Podarcis lusitanicus (n=8). This thesis comprises two investigations. A first study was conducted in order to better understand the role and influence of environmental factors and the host in the gut microbiome composition and diversity of these five species. The second study had the objective of evaluating the effect of blood parasites on host behavior (using a mirror for the behavioral test), with the two syntopic species found in Moledo as models. This project allowed me to characterize the gut microbiome of these five species for the first time. Habitat/locality were the main factors driving gut microbiome differences between these species, and there was a greater microbiome diversity in species captured in Lisbon, the most urbanized studied site. I was able to verify a positive correlation between bacterial diversity and size in P. siculus, which indicates that it accumulates more bacteria, likely because bigger lizards explore more diverse environments. Additionally, I estimated bacteria transmission between sympatric lizards at Moledo and Parque das Nações. High transmission was verified for both populations. Results from the Lisbon population indicate that the invasive species, P. siculus might have acquired a higher proportion of local microbiota through the native species, P. virescens than vice versa. The second study highlighted the infection prevalence differences between P. bocagei and P. lusitanicus, with a larger number of infected individuals in the former. However, P. lusitanicus registered a higher average parasite intensity. The species that interacted with the mirror the most, and was therefore considered bolder, was P. lusitanicus. Contrary to what was expected, the individuals that interacted with the mirror the most, were more parasitized. This thesis aids in understanding the behavior and broadening the sphere of knowledge of microorganisms (bacteria and microparasites) and their interactions with the host. Such work is fundamentally important, and increased investment in these areas of knowledge is essential for species conservation.
Silva Mendes, J. da (2018) -
The order Squamata is a species-rich group of reptiles including the groups Sauria, Serpentes and Amphisbaenia. Several members of these groups have been extensively used as model organisms for a great variety of studies of different fields including ecology, behaviour and medicine. Such studies require a well-established phylogenetic framework to trace the evolution and diversity of the studied traits in the squamate tree of life. However, the accuracy of phylogenetic inference in Squamata is unbalanced: while the position of the main squamate groups and high level relationships have been successfully and consistently estimated across phylogenetic studies, the phylogenetic relationships of some groups have provided inconsistent results over the years. The accurate estimation of relationships between these groups might have been hindered by methodological artefacts of the phylogenetic inference due to limited data and analytical tools. For the last couple of decades, and even presently, phylogenetic inference has relied heavily on mitochondrial DNA as the main molecular marker as a result of its advantages, such as the lack of recombination, easy amplification and high evolutionary rate. While its use is based on sound reasons, some drawbacks and limitations have been highlighted, such as the overall small size, and the fact that all genes are linked thus it represents a single locus. To overcome this, the addition of nuclear DNA complements the use of mitochondrial DNA in phylogenetic inference. Within the nuclear DNA, some markers may present so little variation that it is insufficient to recover phylogenetic relationships, yet slow-evolving nuclear genes have been the most widely used markers in phylogenetic studies. On the other hand, it has been shown that the use of highly informative fast evolving nuclear genes, in combination with mitochondrial DNA, can provide resolution at different parts and depths of the evolutionary history of the species. Phylogenetic analyses of multiple loci have historically been based on the concatenation approach, .i.e. the combination of the sequences into a single alignment that is then analysed to represent the species tree. This method, however, relies on the assumption that the most commonly occurring gene tree is equivalent to the true species tree of any taxa, which may not be true in all cases. Another limitation of the concatenation approach is the elevated percentage of missing data that it sometimes entails, especially in large taxon sets, meaning that the sequence representation is The order Squamata is a species-rich group of reptiles including the groups Sauria, Serpentes and Amphisbaenia. Several members of these groups have been extensively used as model organisms for a great variety of studies of different fields including ecology, behaviour and medicine. Such studies require a well-established phylogenetic framework to trace the evolution and diversity of the studied traits in the squamate tree of life. However, the accuracy of phylogenetic inference in Squamata is unbalanced: while the position of the main squamate groups and high level relationships have been successfully and consistently estimated across phylogenetic studies, the phylogenetic relationships of some groups have provided inconsistent results over the years. The accurate estimation of relationships between these groups might have been hindered by methodological artefacts of the phylogenetic inference due to limited data and analytical tools. For the last couple of decades, and even presently, phylogenetic inference has relied heavily on mitochondrial DNA as the main molecular marker as a result of its advantages, such as the lack of recombination, easy amplification and high evolutionary rate. While its use is based on sound reasons, some drawbacks and limitations have been highlighted, such as the overall small size, and the fact that all genes are linked thus it represents a single locus. To overcome this, the addition of nuclear DNA complements the use of mitochondrial DNA in phylogenetic inference. Within the nuclear DNA, some markers may present so little variation that it is insufficient to recover phylogenetic relationships, yet slow-evolving nuclear genes have been the most widely used markers in phylogenetic studies. On the other hand, it has been shown that the use of highly informative fast evolving nuclear genes, in combination with mitochondrial DNA, can provide resolution at different parts and depths of the evolutionary history of the species. Phylogenetic analyses of multiple loci have historically been based on the concatenation approach, .i.e. the combination of the sequences into a single alignment that is then analysed to represent the species tree. This method, however, relies on the assumption that the most commonly occurring gene tree is equivalent to the true species tree of any taxa, which may not be true in all cases. Another limitation of the concatenation approach is the elevated percentage of missing data that it sometimes entails, especially in large taxon sets, meaning that the sequence representation is Miocene and supported a scenario of east-to-west diversification. The little morphological and phylogenetic evidence for the distinctiveness between Rhinechis and Zamenis supports a classification lumping which better reflects their evolutionary history and, based on the priority rule, R. scalaris is moved into the genus Zamenis and designated as Zamenis scalaris comb. nov. Within the Gallotiinae subfamily, the combined use of fast nuclear markers and the species tree was fruitful for the inference of a robust phylogeny of the genus Psammodromus, distributed in the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa. In this study we analysed for the first time the six Psammodromus species to infer the association between the main cladogenetic events within this genus and the complex biogeographic dynamics across the Strait of Gibraltar. The inferred phylogeographical history suggests that Psammodromus probably originated in Iberia. The African species and the African lineage of P. algirus were a result of two over-sea dispersal events towards Africa that occurred 10 Ma and 1.5 Ma, while continental vicariance events might have shaped the diversification of the species within Iberia and Africa. These results, combined with previous literature, provide compelling evidence that major biotic exchanges occurred across the Strait of Gibraltar well before or long after the land connection during the Messinian Salinity Crisis (5.9 – 5.33 Ma). These findings suggest caution in the application of the relatively short event of the opening of the Strait of Gibraltar at the end of the Messinian Salinity Crisis as a cause for divergence in molecular clock calibrations, which is a common approach in literature. At the species level, the use of fast evolving nuclear markers proved to be fruitful to understand the geographical pattern of phyletic diversification within the Omanosaura lizards belonging to the Eremiadini tribe, endemic to the Hajar Mountains in the Arabian Peninsula. Multilocus phylogenetic analyses recovered two highly divergent lineages within O. cyanura which are geographically associated to the northernmost and to the south and eastern regions of the Hajar Mountains. These lineages are reciprocally monophyletic at both mitochondrial and nuclear loci suggesting a long history of independent evolution and the need of a comprehensive taxonomic assessment. Omanosaura cyanura represents an additional case of cryptic diversity in the north Hajar Mountains, an area that has been demonstrated to hide high levels of genetic diversity in other reptile groups. Overall, the work developed in this dissertation has demonstrated that the inclusion of fast evolving nuclear genes and the coalescent species tree approach was relevant for resolving challenging phylogenetic questions on selected squamate groups. This approach allowed the recovery of new clades and provided support for old and recent relationships. These methods have further allowed the comparison between contrasting phylogenetic hypotheses on the Lacertini and Colubrinae, demonstrating that the inference based on the supermatrix approach used by many recent studies may provide high support for incorrect nodes. Future research directions include (i) the application of the phylogenomic approach based on Next Generation Sequence data to further resolve basal polytomy within the Lacertini and Colubrinae radiations; (ii) a taxonomical assessment of Omanosaura; (iii) a re-evaluation of molecular clock calibrations based on the end of the Messinian Salinity Crisis as general cause for divergence, in order to account for biotic exchanges by over-sea dispersal across the Mediterranean well before or long after the land connection during this period, as suggested by emerging literature and the study case on Psammodromus.
Silva-Armas, J.L. & Santana, M. & Silva, J.A. & Arechavaleta, M. & Farina, B. & Fox, E. & Afonso, Ó. (2003) -
Silva-Rocha, I. & Montes, E. & Salvi, D. & Sillero, N. Mateo, J.A. & Ayllón, E. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. & Carretero, M.A. (2018) -
Balearic herpetofauna represents a paradigmatic case of multiple biological invasions within the Mediterranean Basin, with a much higher number of alien amphibians (i.e. frogs and toads) and reptiles (i.e. lizards, snakes and turtles/tortoises) than native. The paleogeography of the Balearic Islands, located on Western Mediterranean between Spain and Sardinia, is complex, comprehending an ancient split from the continent during the late Miocene and Pleistocene climatic fluctuations connecting and disconnecting islands from one another (but not them to the continent) that eventually re-shaped the archipelago’s biota. The archipelago has been also influenced by humans since the Neolithic, being a cross-road for alien biota between North Africa and Southern Europe, which caused range regressions and extinctions in the native herpetofauna, nowadays restricted to one amphibian and two reptiles. During the last century, tourism development, the pet trade, and cargo transport of ornamental plants have produced a new wave of biological invasions. Recently introduced snakes are of particular concern, since the effect of predation may seriously threaten the remaining native reptiles in the main islands and endemic subspecies in surrounding islets. Balearic people have a negative social perception of such snakes, mainly due to the lack of familiarity with snakes among islanders but also to the herpetophobic attitude of many Mediterranean cultures. Here we review the herpetological invasions in the Balearic Archipelago and their impacts. We further discuss the on-going management actions on alien reptiles in this archipelago, namely the control of invasive snakes in Ibiza involving monitoring, trapping, environmental education and promotion of social participation.
Silva-Rocha, I. & Sá-Sousa, P. & Fariña, B. & Carretero, M.A. (2016) -
Silva-Rocha, I. & Salvi, D. & Carretero, M.A. (2012) -
Biological invasions have become a major cause of biodiversity loss. Tracing the origin of the populations of alien species is essential to infer the dispersal pathway and finally to set conservation policies aimed at preventing new introductions. The Italian wall lizard, Podarcis sicula, is one of the reptile species most widely introduced, with allochthonous populations occurring from the United States to Turkey. For some of them, instances of geographic expansion and competition/hybridization with autochthonous Podarcis sp. have been indicated. In the Iberian Peninsula, four introduced populations are known: Lisbon (W Portugal), Noja, Cantabria (N Spain), La Rioja (N Spain) and Almería (S Spain) while the species now widely ranges Menorca Island in the Balearics. Here we assess the origin of all five populations by comparing in a phylogenetic framework the cytochrome b gene sequences of specimens from the introduced and native populations. The results from this study provide evidence for distinct sources, pathways, and timing of introduction in Iberian Peninsula and Balearics by P. sicula from Tuscany, Calabria, Sicily, and Sardinia. This finding underpins the fact that P. sicula holds considerable potential invasiveness and advises for conservation strategies based on a global and preventive plan for avoiding new introductions as well as on eradication and control measures when prevention fails.
Silva-Rocha, I. & Salvi, D. & Carretero, M.A. (2014) -
Silva-Rocha, I. & Salvi, D. & Harris, D.J. & Freitas, S. & Davis, C. & Foster, J. & Deichsel, G. & Adamopoulou, C. & Carretero, M.A. (2014) -
Biological invasions are a challenge to conservation and constitute a threat to biodiversity worldwide. The Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula has been widely introduced, and seems capable of adapting to most of the regions where it is established and to impact on native biota. Here we construct a phylogenetic framework to assess the origin of the introduced populations in the United Kingdom, Greece and Turkey comparing cytochrome-b gene sequences of lizards from five locations to published sequences from the native range and other non-native locations. The results support an origin from central Italy for the United Kingdom population, from the Adriatic region for the Greek population and from Calabria for the population from Turkey. These results emphasise the multiple-source pattern of introduction of this species identified in previous studies. The improvement in the knowledge of the origin and pathways by which invaders arrive in new areas, as well as the monitoring of their populations, are crucial for successful strategies to deal with exotic species.
Silva-Rocha, I. & Salvi, D. & Sillero, N. & Mateo, J.A. & Carretero, M.A. (2015) -
Biological invasions are a major conservation threat for biodiversity worldwide. Islands are particularly vulnerable to invasive species, especially Mediterranean islands which have suffered human pressure since ancient times. In the Balearic archipelago, reptiles represent an outstanding case with more alien than native species. Moreover, in the last decade a new wave of alien snakes landed in the main islands of the archipelago, some of which were originally snake-free. The identification of the origin and colonization pathways of alien species, as well as the prediction of their expansion, is crucial to develop effective conservation strategies. In this study, we used molecular markers to assess the allochthonous status and the putative origin of the four introduced snake species (Hemorrhois hippocrepis, Malpolon monspessulanus, Macroprotodon mauritanicus and Rhinechis scalaris) as well as ecological niche models to infer their patterns of invasion and expansion based on current and future habitat suitability. For most species, DNA sequence data suggested the Iberian Peninsula as the potential origin of the allochthonous populations, although the shallow phylogeographic structure of these species prevented the identification of a restricted source-area. For all of them, the ecological niche models showed a current low habitat suitability in the Balearic, which is however predicted to increase significantly in the next few decades under climate change scenarios. Evidence from direct observations and spatial distribution of the first-occurrence records of alien snakes (but also lizards and worm lizards) suggest the nursery trade, and in particular olive tree importation from Iberian Peninsula, as the main pathway of introduction of alien reptiles in the Balearic islands. This trend has been reported also for recent invasions in NE Spain, thus showing that olive trees transplantation may be an effective vector for bioinvasion across the Mediterranean. The combination of molecular and ecological tools used in this study reveals a promising approach for the understanding of the complex invasion process, hence guiding conservation management actions.
Silva-Rocha, I.& Montes, E. & Salvi, D. & Sillero, N. & Mateo, J.A. & Ayllón, E. & Pleguezuelo0s, J.M. & Carretero, M.A. (2018) -
Balearic herpetofauna represents a paradigmatic case of multiple bio- logical invasions within the Mediterranean Basin, with a much higher number of alien amphibians (i.e. frogs and toads) and reptiles (i.e. lizards, snakes and turtles/ tortoises) than native. The paleogeography of the Balearic Islands, located on Western Mediterranean between Spain and Sardinia, is complex, comprehending an ancient split from the continent during the late Miocene and Pleistocene climatic fluctuations connecting and disconnecting islands from one another (but not them to the continent) that eventually re-shaped the archipelago’s biota. The archipelago has been also influenced by humans since the Neolithic, being a cross-road for alien biota between North Africa and Southern Europe, which caused range regressions and extinctions in the native herpetofauna, nowadays restricted to one amphibian and two reptiles. During the last century, tourism development, the pet trade, and cargo transport of ornamental plants have produced a new wave of biological invasions. Recently introduced snakes are of particular concern, since the effect of predation may seriously threaten the remaining native reptiles in the main islands and endemic subspecies in surrounding islets. Balearic people have a negative social perception of such snakes, mainly due to the lack of familiarity with snakes among islanders but also to the herpetophobic attitude of many Mediterranean cultures. Here we review the herpetological invasions in the Balearic Archipelago and their impacts. We further discuss the on-going management actions on alien reptiles in this archipelago, namely the control of invasive snakes in Ibiza involving monitoring, trapping, environmental education and promotion of social participation.
Silva‐Rocha, I.R. & Salvi, D. & Carretero, M.A. & Ficetola, G.F. (2019) -
Aim: The Mediterranean basin has a long history of interactions between humans and biota, with multiple ancient and recent introductions of alien species. Such a multitude of introductions makes it difficult to distinguish between alien and native species but provides an excellent opportunity to investigate factors related to intro ‐ductions and long‐term persistence of alien species. In this study, we combined ge ‐netic and distribution data to identify the factors promoting the presence of alien reptiles on islands, considering human‐related, geographic and species features. Furthermore, we assessed whether the use of genetic evidence to identify alien spe ‐cies improves inference of the factors determining their distribution.Location: Mediterranean islands.Methods: We combined genetic data and distribution databases to obtain informa‐tion on biological traits and on the native/alien status of reptiles on >900 Mediterranean islands, and we gathered data on geographic and human features of islands. We then used spatially explicit generalized additive mixed models to identify the factors associated with the establishment of alien reptiles.Results: Alien reptile populations are more frequent on islands far from the native range and with large human population. Alien populations of reptiles that are able to feed on plants are particularly frequent. Traditional data sources underestimate the frequency of alien reptiles on Mediterranean islands, and using genetic evidence to assess the status of populations provided a more complete picture of the factors as ‐sociated with the presence of alien populations.Main conclusions: Humans are key drivers of the distribution of alien reptiles on Mediterranean islands, but the distributions are determined by a complex interplay between human activities, geographic factors and species features. Genetic data are essential for obtaining reliable biogeographic assessments of invasive species, par ‐ticularly in systems with a long history of human influence.
Silva, A. de & Austin, C.C. & Bauer, A. & Goonewardene, S. & Hawke, Z. & Vanneck, V. & Drion, A. & Goonasekera, M.M. (2004) -
Silva, J.L. & Santana Rivero, M. (2003) -
Silva, J.P. & Toland, J. & Jones, W. & Eldridge, J. & Hudson, T. & O`Hara, E. (2009) -
Simbotwe, M.P. (1979) -
Simbotwe, M.P. (1984) -
The spatial distribution of a woodland lizard community was studied in April and July 1980, and January 1981. This study showed that various species of reptiles were microhabitat-substrate-specific, hence confirming earlier work on reptiles. Microhabitat niche overlap values and niche diversity were generally low, and a discussion on factors that determine ecological structure and the role of spatial organization in reptile community ecology is given.
Simbotwe, M.P. & Garber, S.D. (1979) -
The food type and foraging habits of African lizards of the genera Mabuya, Agama, Ichnotropis and Lygodactylus from Dambwa Forest Reserve, Livingstone, Zambia, are documented. The bulk of the diet of these lizards consists of termites and ants. Since these lizards feed mainly on small colonial insects, the added advantage to the community of having lizards of different ages and sizes, within and between species, feeding on different size prey, an aspect that reduces competition for food in many other lizards, does not exist. Thus in the absence of this phenomenon, lizards in this community were found to co-exist and avoid competitive exclusion by foraging in different micro-habitats and exhibiting behavioral differences with respect to procuring food.
Simbula, G. & Luiselli, L. & Vignoli, L. (2018) -
The study of animal communities is mainly concerned with how the groupings of species are distributed in nature and the ways in which the members of these communities assemble and interact with each other. Pianka suggested that animals partition environmental resources in three basic ways: temporally, spatially, and trophically. Such differences in activities separate the niches, reduce competition, and presumably allow the coexistence of a variety of species in the communities. The present work compares the spatial, trophic and temporal niches of four reptile species, two geckos (Tarentola mauritanica and Hemidactylus turcicus) and two lizards (Podarcis muralis and Podarcis siculus) living in a same roman-age archeological park situated area inside Rome metropolitan area (central Italy), and sharing the same two-dimensional habitat (the roman aqueduct walls). The results showed an overall overlap among species higher than expected by chance for all considered ecological dimensions except for the spatial resource related to the vertical position on the wall. Surprisingly, despite living in a two-dimension habitat would expect an increase of interspecific interaction rate, no partition was observed between species with the most convergent ecological requirements. Although our hypotheses about lizard communities structuring and interactions in the urban habitat require further investigation, we think that our lizard community is based more on the ecological needs of each species rather than on species’ interactions. The observed spatial segregation between diurnal geckos and lizards would not support alone the interaction hypothesis. We speculated that the coexistence of ecologically overlapping species at the study area is allowed by a non-limiting availability of resources (above all food) that would result in the reduction of heterospecific competitive interactions and an overall wide overlap of resource use.
Simbula, G. & Macale, D. & Gomes, V. & Vignoli, L. & Carretero, M.A. (2021) -
In oviparous species, pesticides may affect embryo survival via maternal transfer or contaminant absorption from the soil, thus representing an important cause of population decline. Maternal transfer is a source of contamination during vitellogenesis and oviductal egg retention. Currently, there is still limited evidence of the potential risk of embryonic exposure routes in reptiles. We investigated whether different agricultural treatments affect embryo, egg, and hatchling development and survival in the Italian wall lizard. We kept gravid females from conventional and control fields in captivity until oviposition and, after eggs being incubated in a pesticide-free environment, offspring morphology and performance (running speed) were assessed. Our results showed that the size of the mother positively influences the number of the eggs and offspring, as well as hatching body condition. Bigger females from conventional treatments tended to lay more eggs. Moreover, at equal female body conditions, eggs and hatchlings from conventional treatments had worse quality (i.e., smaller size and lower body condition) than those from control areas. No effect of treatment was observed on hatchling locomotor performance. In conclusion, our study provided new insights of the direct and indirect effects of field management (i.e., pesticide exposure) on females` reproductive success through the alteration of female`s behaviour, which in turn may affect offspring development and health.
Simbula, G. & Moltedo, G. & Catalano, B. & Martuccio, G. & Sebbio, C. & Onorati, F. & Stellati, L. & Bissattini, A.M. & Vignoli, L. (2021) -
The release of contaminants as herbicides, fungicides and insecticides into the environment has been listed as one of the six major contributors to the global decline of reptiles. Although reptiles may face severe risk from contaminants due to their ecology and physiology, they are currently less studied than other vertebrate groups. In the present work, we investigated if and how different types of field treatment (conventional and organic) affected the health status of Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) individuals in central Italy. We chose a multi-biomarker approach that evaluated the biological responses of lizards to the treatment by means of AChE activity in the nervous system, biotransformation enzymes activities and oxidative stress in the liver, micronuclei frequency measured in the erythrocytes, and rate of intestinal parasitic infection. Our findings showed evidence of effects of treatment in conventional areas and between sexes with significant oxidative stress due to hydroxyl radicals, that caused DNA damage. No difference of intestinal parasite infections was found among treatments. Podarcis siculus seems to be a good bioindicator in ecotoxicological studies and potentially in risk assessment of pesticides, although further analyses in laboratory and in the field are needed to achieve more accurate quantification of specific pesticide effects in relation to known exposure history and to understand if other mechanisms were involved in the toxicity and detoxification process of pesticides for this species.
Simbula, G. & Vignoli, L. (2021) -
Simbula, G. & Vignoli, L. & Carretero, M.A. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2021) -
The extensive use of pesticides in agricultural environments produces drastic effects on wildlife, hence the need for less invasive indicators of environmental stress to monitoring the impact of agriculture treatments on bio logical systems. Fluctuating asymmetry (FA), as measure of developmental instability, has recently been pro posed as reliable biomarker of populations stress due to environmental disturbance. We investigate femoral pores (FP) and dorsal head shape (HS) traits in populations of the Italian wall lizard inhabiting agricultural environ ments to examine whether different pesticide exposures (conventional, organic and control) can cause distinctive degree of FA. High-resolution photographs of FP and HS were taken in the field with a digital camera. The number of FP were counted twice on both sides and HS was analysed using geometric morphometrics with 25 landmarks and 12 semilandmarks. Individuals under conventional management showed higher levels of FA compared to control ones, and females exhibited higher FA levels than males for the FP. However, no significant difference was found for the HS trait. Our study provided evidence that FA may have a real potential as biomarker of population stress in wall lizards, highlighting the importance in the choice of the experimental design and the traits adopted for estimating DI.
Simmat, U. (2023) -
Im Gegensatz zu den meisten publizierten Angaben können Zauneidechsen auch in Feuchtgebieten beobachtet werden. In einem mit Schilfröhricht bestandenen Niedermoor bei Storkow (Landkreis Oder-Spree, Brandenburg) wurden im Zeitraum vom 18.4.2020 bis 74.6.2020 in elf Exkursioneng2 Mal Zauneidechsen nachgewiesen. Dabei wurden sowohl adulte als auch juvenile Tiere erfasst. Im unmittelbaren Umfeld der Fläche existieren keine typischen Zauneidechsenhabitate, die größere Spender-Populationen beherbergen könnten. Es entstand der Eindruck einer vitalen Zauneidechsen-Population. Zufallsbeobachtungen an anderer Stelle bestätigen, dass Zauneidechsen auch anderorts in Feuchtgebiete eindringen. Selbst Schlüpflinge können in solchen Habitaten gefunden werden. Ob sie hier geschlüpft oder eingewandert sind, muss offen bleiben. Es ist vorstellbar, dass die vergangenen trocken-heißen Sommer die Einwanderung in Feuchtgebiete möglich gemacht haben. Diese Gebiete sind ausgesprochen deckungsreich und verfügen vermutlich über ein hohes Angebot an Nahrung.
Simms, C. (1964) -
Simms, C. (1965) -
Simms, C. (1968) -
Simms, C. (1969) -
Investigations of the distribution, population density and breeding success of viviparous Lizards on a four-acre strip of sandy lowland heath were started in 1965. Late in the season about two acres, including the areas most favoured by the lizards, were severely burnt for over eighteen hours and subsequent search indicated that most of the population had perished. Recovery of the flora, mainly grasses (Graminae), Heather (Calluna), and a shrub element of Gorse (Ulex) and Blackberry (Rubus), restored ground cover by the end of the 1966 season. Lizard recolonisation was from the unburnt area, where a minority of the 1965 population had been found. The recovery and re-distribution of the lizard population was followed by plotting the movements of marked individuals from re-capture data. From 1966 to 1968 locutions favoured for breeding sites and hibernacula. as well as the `territories` (sensu lato) of individual lizards, increasingly approximated to those used in 1965. Population increase, based on estimates only, indicates that three breeding seasons were required to reach a level comparable to that of 1965, and there are clear signs that most of the recovery was brought about by young lizards in their first breeding seasons. Similar stations were taken up by the newcomers to those used by the 1965 population for basking, deposition of the young, and for hibernation, despite a changed flora in some of these situations. This suggests that functions of aspect and of micro-geomorphology might be of critical significance. The author has been unable to find reference to any previous observations on this subject.
Simms, C. (1970) -
Simms, C. (1976) -
Simó-Riudalbas, K. & Tamar, K. & Smid, J. & Mitsi, P. & Sindaco, R. & Chirio, L. & Carranza, S. (2019) -
The lacertid lizards of the genus Mesalina inhabit the arid regions of the Old World, from North Africa to NW India. Of the 19 recognized species within the genus, eleven occur in Arabia. In this study, we explore the genetic variability and phylogeographic patterns of the less studied M. adramitana group from southern Arabia and the Socotra Archipelago within the phylogenetic and biogeographic context of the entire genus. Our unprecedented sampling extends the distribution ranges of most Mesalina species and, for the first time, sequences of M. ayunensis are included in a phylogenetic analysis. We perform analyses of concatenated multilocus datasets and species trees, conduct species delimitation analyses, and estimate divergence times within a biogeographic framework. Additionally, we inferred the environmental suitability and identified dispersal corridors through which gene flow is enabled within M. adramitana. Our results show that the Socotra Archipelago was colonized approximately 7 Mya by a single oversea colonization from mainland Arabia. Then, an intra-archipelago dispersal event that occurred approximately 5 Mya resulted in the speciation between M. balfouri, endemic to Socotra, Samha and Darsa Islands, and M. kuri, endemic to Abd al Kuri Island. Similar to previous studies, we uncovered high levels of genetic diversity within the M. adramitana species-group, with two highly divergent lineages of M. adramitana living in allopatry and adapted to locally specific climatic conditions that necessitate further investigation.
Simone, E. de & Senczuk, G. & Castiglia, R. (2016) -
Insular systems have always been considered as excellent natural laboratory to study microevolutionary processes driving genetic diversification and lately speciation. In the present study we carried out a phylogeographic analysis on the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) including 46 peninsular populations (n = 82) and four island populations (n = 61) from the Northern Pontine Archipelago. The genetic variability level of the insular populations of Ponza, Gavi, and Zannone was analysed for the first time in this study using two mitochondrial fragments of cytb and nd4 (n=143 specimens) and the nuclear mc1r (n=126 specimens). In the northern Pontine Archipelago the mtDNA showed the presence of an ancient and monophyletic clade highly divergent from the continental clades. Our estimate of the TMRCA placed an early separation dated at about 2.6 Mya suggesting a unique colonization event of the archipelago. The statistical parsimony network allowed us to detect a certain level of structure among islands with Zannone showing the highest level of isolation and differentiation, Ponza and Gavi showed a shared haplotype while Palmarola population experienced multiple colonizations from Ponza. Conversely, the nuDNA on the whole dataset, did not show the same mtDNA structure. However, the Pontine clade exhibits a certain level of differentiation from the mainland with the presence of unique haplotypes. The nuDNA geographic distribution within the Pontine Islands suggest a possible existence of a pre-LGM gene flow when the island were connected. Definitely our data clearly deny the hypothesis of a possible recent human mediated introduction from central Italy to these islands as mentioned by previous studies. Instead, the Pontine clade showed an ancient phylogenetic divergence, a limited and isolated distribution and genetic structure among the islands. Therefore these populations should be considered as ESU / Evolutionary Significant Unit, deserving a conservation attention of its internal diversity.
Simoniello, P. & Esposito, M.G. & Trinchella, F. & Motta, C.M. & Scudiero, R. (2016) -
The teratogenic effects of thermal stress were studied in the oviparous Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula. To this purpose, the eggs were exposed to continuous or temporary cold (15 °C) or warm (30 °C) stresses and the effects were analysed at the cytological and molecular levels. The results demonstrated the lethality of the continuous regimes and of the warm temporary regime, no matter if given at early (5 days) or late (15 days) stages of development. Temporary cold stress also resulted in lethality, but only if given in the early stage; later, in fact, it resulted in an abnormal development, with marked alterations in the encephalic vesicles, in the eyes and the trunk organs. By in situ hybridization, it was demonstrated that these alterations were often correlated with changes in HSP70 expression. In conclusion, our data indicate that Podarcis embryos have a limited potential to tolerate thermal changes, especially warm ones. The average predicted temperature increase of 2–4 °C in the next few decades could therefore represent a real threat for lizard populations living in temperate areas.
Simoniello, P. & Filosa, S. & Riggio, M. & Scudiero, R. & Tammaro, S. & Trinchella, F. & Motta, C.M. (2010) -
This study examined the cytological and molecular effects of cadmium, a toxic heavy metal, in the liver of the Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula. Cadmium was administered in single dose, by diet, to induce a concentration comparable with that measured in animals living in contaminated sites. For comparison, cadmium was also administered in multiple doses by food (chronic) or in a single dose intraperitoneally (i.p.); the effects were followed at regular time intervals up to 30 days post treatments. Atomic absorption spectrometry analysis demonstrated cadmium ion uptake and accumulation in the parenchyma with an estimated half-life of approximately 8 days. Cytological analyses revealed that the metal induced oedema, activated metallothionein expression in Kupffer cells and extracellular matrix production in fat storing cells. It also caused swelling and alteration in lipid and sugar metabolism in hepatocytes. In conclusion, in the wall lizard cadmium is toxic to the liver even at very low concentrations, the response is not strictly dose and time dependent and almost no recovery occurs in short (30 days) time periods.
Simoniello, P. & Filosa, S. & Scudiero, R. & Trinchella, F. & Motta, C.M. (2013) -
The exposure to environmental toxicants such cadmium (Cd) is an important research area in wildlife protection. In this study, the effect of Cd oral administration on the ovarian structure and function and on reproductive performance of the Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula was studied. In vivo, adult female lizards were randomly assigned to three groups. Cd was given with food in single dose and in multiple doses 3 days/week for 4 weeks at dose of 1.0 μg/g body weight. Following euthanasia, the ovaries were removed and analyzed for morpho-functional changes. Results demonstrated that Cd increases prefollicular germ cells number; the evaluation of the number of follicles detects significantly higher number of atretic growing follicles, whereas primary follicles remain unchanged with respect to controls. After Cd treatments, follicles are deformed by the presence of large protrusions and a general dysregulation in the follicle organization is observed. The zona pellucida is also affected. Cd causes alteration in sugar metabolism and in metallothionein gene expression. Finally, Cd administration significantly reduces clutch size and dramatically increases embryo mortality. In conclusion, data here described show that Cd induces morpho-functional alterations in lizard follicles and indicates that these are responsible for a significant impairment of oogenesis. The effects of the dose are time independent, persisting essentially unchanged regardless of single or multiple administration, so it can be concluded that even occasional, sublethal Cd contamination may significantly impair reproductive performance in these animals.
Simoniello, P. & Motta, C.M. & Scudiero, R. & Trinchella, F. & Filosa, S. (2010) -
Lizard embryos are nutritionally independent from their environment. During the early phases of oogenesis, the egg prepares for development by storing reserve organelles, proteins, and RNAs sufficient to allow the zygote to transform into a juvenile. This preparation also includes the storage of metallothionein (MT) transcripts. This study investigated the localization of these transcripts by in situ hybridization throughout Podarcis sicula developmental stages. Our data show that MT expression undergoes shifts in both regional and cellular localization. MT transcripts were detected early in the central nervous system, later in tissues implicated in metabolic processes. Results are discussed highlighting differences in lizard embryonic spatial and temporal MT expression compared with piscine, amphibian, and mammalian embryos. We hypothesize that, under natural conditions, the nutritionally closed system represented by the lizard egg protects the developing embryo from an unwanted excess of metals. This mechanism would make MT expression and accumulation in detoxifying organs in developing animals unnecessary until hatching and food intake begins. Conversely, the presence of MT transcripts during brain development may ensure the correct final architecture of this organ.
Simoniello, P. & Motta, C.M. & Scudiero, R. & Trinchella, F. & Filosa, S. (2011) -
Cadmium teratogenic effects and metallothionein expression were studied in tissues of lizard embryos at different stages of development. Incubation of eggs in cadmium contaminated soil had no effect on embryo survival, but strongly affected cranial morphogenesis. Cytological analyses demonstrated abnormalities in the development of proencephalic vesicles, mesencephalon and eyes. No defects were observed in somite or limb development. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that MT expression was much stronger in embryos developed in cadmium contaminated soil. In situ hybridization showed an early induction of MT gene expression in developing liver and gut, whereas in brain and eyes the spatial and temporal localization of MT transcripts did not change. A possible correlation between inability to induce MT expression and abnormalities observed in the head region of lizard developing embryos is suggested.
Simoniello, P. & Tammaro, S. & Motta, C.M. & Frezza, V. & Filosa, S. (2006) -
Simoniello, P. & Trinchella, F. & Borrelli, L. & Stasio, R. de & Motta, C.M. & Filosa, S. & Scudiero, R. (2009) -
Simoniello, P. & Trinchella, F. & Scudiero, R. & Filosa, S. & Motta, C.M. (2010) -
Cadmium is a highly polluting heavy metal known to have undesirable effects on health in both animals and humans, targeting the kidneys, the liver and the vascular system. A wide spectrum of deleterious effects has been reported also on the reproductive organs and the developing embryo. Cadmium in fact is a strong endocrine disruptor that interferes with functioning of endogenous receptors and hormones causing detrimental effects on offspring production and survival. In spite of the wide number of studies carried out in laboratory mammals, data on cadmium effects on gonadic tissues, fertility and reproduction of wild terrestrial vertebrates are still limited. In particular, information on the consequences of environmental cadmium exposure on reptiles survival and biodiversity is particularly scanty. Reptiles are presently considered highly susceptible to a number of environmental pollutants and this has contributed to the global decline of several wild populations of turtles, crocodilians and lizards. In addition, several reptile species have been identified as good bioindicators of pollution in their environments due to their persistence in a variety of habitats, wide geographic distribution, longevity and site fidelity. In consideration of the few data currently available we decided to investigate cadmium effects on oogonial proliferation and oocyte recruitment in a species of lizard and to verify whether this metal acts as an endocrine disruptor. For this purpose, we treated adult females with cadmium or, alternatively, with estradiol, progesterone or follicle stimulating hormone. Results indicate that cadmium stimulates oogonial proliferation and oocyte recruitment by mimicking the effects exerted by gonadotropins. Treatment, in fact, increases preleptotene and zygotene-pachytene oocytes numbers that reach values comparable to those observed after FSH treatment. These values are significantly different, either lower or higher, from those observed after estradiol or progesterone administration. Results also indicate that the supernumerary oocytes produced after cadmium treatment are destined to degenerate and that fecundity is reduced by a significant increase in follicular atresia.
Simonov, E.P. (2008) -
The appearance of sexual dimorphism in Lacerta agilis exigua populations in the forest-steppe and steppe native zones (south of the West Siberia) is analyzed. Sexual differences in coloration, pattern, moiphometric and meristic characters were revealed in both populations. The sexual dimorphism in the L. agilis populations is shown to be more expressed in less favorable conditions of the steppe zone.
Симонов Е.П. (2008) -
Анализируется проявление полового диморфизма в популяциях восточной прыткой ящерицы (Lacerta agilis exigua) из степной и лесостепной зоны юга Западной Сибири. В обеих популяциях были выявлены половые различия в окраске, рисунке, морфометрических и мери-стических признаках. Показано, что в менее оптимальных условиях степной зоны половой диморфизм в популяциях L. agilis выражен сильнее, чем у популяций из лесостепи.
Simonov, E.P. (2009) -
The intra- and interpopulations differences in coloration, pattern, pholidosis and fluc- tuate asymmetry of forest-steppe’s and steppe’s sand lizard’s populations from Novosi- birsk region are considered. It is shown, that coloration and pattern are more various at Lacerta agilis from steppe’s population, whereas in forest-steppe’s population solitary variations prevail. Significant interpopulations’ differences are detection for 13 features. Here exist two groups of features, which demonstrate opposite trend in variability con- cerning pholidosis polymerization (separation on elements). The level of fluctuate asym- metry significantly higher in steppe’s population. It is supporting opinion that forest- steppe native zone is most optimal for sand lizard in West Siberia.
Симонов, Е.П. (2009) -
Рассматриваются внутри- и межпопуляционные отличия окраски, рисун- ка, щиткования и флуктуирующей асимметрии лесостепной и степной попу- ляций прытких ящериц из Новосибирской области. Показано, что окраска и рисунок более разнообразны у прытких ящериц из степной популяции, тогда как в лесостепной популяции преобладают отдельные вариации. Достовер- ные межпопуляционные отличия выявлены по 13 признакам, при этом су- ществует две группы признаков демонстрирующих противоположную на- правленность изменений в отношении полимерности (расчлененности на элементы) фолидоза. Уровень флуктуирующей асимметрии достоверно вы- ше в степной популяции, что подтверждает представление о том, что на тер- ритории Западной Сибири наиболее оптимальной для обитания вида являет- ся лесостепная зона.
Simonyan, A. & Hovhannisyan, G. & Sargsyan, A. & Arakelyan, M. & Minasyan, S. & Aroutiounian, R. (2018) -
Natural species are widely used as indicator organisms to estimate of the impact of environmental pollution. Here we present the results of first study of a reliability of parthenogenetic Darevskia аrmeniaca and bisexual Darevskia raddei rock lizards as sentinels for monitoring of environmental genotoxicity. The comet assay and micronucleus test were applied to the lizards sampled in six areas in Armenia and Artsakh with different levels of soil contamination. The results obtained showed a clear relationship between the pollution level of lizards’ habitats and the frequency of DNA damage in the comet assay. Low baseline frequency of micronuclei in D. аrmeniaca and D. raddei, however, makes this parameter ineffective for environmental genotoxicity evaluation. The parthenogenetic lizards D. аrmeniaca showed higher sensitivity toward genotoxic pollutions compared with bisexual D. raddei living in the same environment. The correlations between soil content of heavy metals Cr, Cu, Zn, Mo, Pb and DNA damage in D. аrmeniaca and between Cu, As, Mo, Pb and DNA damage in D. raddei were revealed. Overall, the lizards D. raddei and D. аrmeniaca appeared to be sensitive species in detecting soil pollution in natural environment. The application of the comet assay in Darevskia lizard species can be considered as a more appropriate method than a micronucleus test. The use of parthenogenetic lizards D. аrmeniaca as bioindicator will permit to assess the environmental genotoxicity independent of the genetic polymorphism of bisexual species.
Simonyan, A.E. & Georkyan, A.L. & Minacyan, S.G. & Sargsyan, A.A. & Arakelyan, M.S. (2015) -
The levels of DNA damage in erythrocytes of rock lizards Darevskia raddei from reserve Shikahogh and Kajaran (Republic of Armenia) and Zuar (Nagorno-Karabakh Republic), were assessed using the comet assay. Female lizards were more sensitive to environmental pollutants than males. Significant positive correlation was found between DNA damage in female lizards and content of Cu, Mo, Pb, Cd, V and As in soil.
Симонян, A.Э. & Геворкян, А.Л. & Минасян, С.Г. & Саргсян, А.А. & Аракелян, М.C. (2015) -
Уровень повреждений ДНК в эритроцитах скальных ящериц Darevskia raddei из за- поведника Шикаох и Каджарана (Республика Армения) и Зуара (Нагорно-Карабахская Рес- публика) оценивали методом ДНК-комет. Самки ящериц оказались более чувствительны к загрязнителям среды, чем самцы. Показана достоверная положительная корреляция между уровнем повреждений ДНК у самок и содержанием Cu, Mo, Pb, Cd, V и As в почве. ԴՆԹ-ի վնասվածքների մակարդակը գնահատվել է Շիկահողի արգելոցում, Քաջարանում (Հայաստանի Հանրապետություն) եւ Զուարում (Լեռնային Ղարաբաղի Հանրապետություն) բնակվող Darevskia raddei ժայռային մողեսների էրիթրոցիտներում՝ ԴՆԹ-կոմետ մեթոդով։ Ցույց է տրվել, որ Էգ մողեսները ավելի զգայուն են շրջակա միջավայրի աղտոտիչների նկատմամբ, քան արուները։ Հավաստի դրական կորելյացիա է հայտնաբերվել էգ մողեսների ԴՆԹ-ի վնաս- վածքների եւ հողում Cu, Mo, Pb, Cd, V ու As պարունակության միջեւ։
Simou, C. & Pafilis, P. & Skella, A. & Kourkouli, A. & Valakos, E.D. (2004) -
Caudal autotomy is a widespread antipredator mechanism among lizards. Thrashing the tail distracts the predator’s attention, facilitating the lizard’s escape. Regeneration occurs rapidly, but the regenerated tail differs from the original in many ways. In the present study, we examine probable physiological differences between, and the performance of, regenerated and original tails in Aegean Wall Lizard from Aegean islets. Autotomy was induced artificially. There was no difference in duration of tail movement. Moreover, we failed to detect any differences in lactate and glycogen concentrations. Differences in LDH activity and protein levels were not significant. However, lipid levels were higher in regenerated tails. Finally, regenerated tails show higher autotomy percentages when predation was simulated. We failed to detect large-scale physiological differences in regenerated tails (with the exception of lipids) in these particular populations.
Simou, C. & Pafilis, P. & Skella, A. & Kourkouli, A. & Valakos, E.D. (2008) -
Simovic, A. & Markovic, A. (2013) -
Sindaco, R. (1999) -
Sindaco, R. (2006) -
Sindaco, R. (2011) -
Sindaco, R. & Biggi, E. & Boano, G. & Delmastro, G.B. (2002) -
Sindaco, R. & Bombi, P. & Salvi, D. & Corti, C. (2011) -
Sindaco, R. & Corti, C. (2011) -
Sindaco, R. & Corti, C. & Delaugerre, M. (2011) -
Sindaco, R. & Corti, C. & Paggetti, E. (2011) -
Sindaco, R. & Dall`Asta, A. (2016) -
Sindaco, R. & Jeremčenko, V.K. (2008) -
This book shows a comprehensive picture of the reptiles, excluding snakes, living in Europe, North Africa, Middle and Near East and Central Asia. The bulk of the book is an annotated checklist and a distributional atlas of approx 500 species of lizards, crocodiles, turtles and terrapins, and amphisbaenians, living in the Western Palearctic. Information on distribution, subspecies, chorotype and main references are provided for each species, as well as 226 colour maps showing the global distribution of the species on a grid of one degree. For each species map the bibliographic and original sources (more than 850 sources are listed) are indicated. A further 83 maps show the distribution of all genera and main species groups of Palearctic reptiles. Beside the checklist and the atlas, in some additional chapters the following arguments are treated: Materials and methods; status of knowledge on the Palearctic fauna; composition of the Western Palearctic reptile fauna (including a statement on biodiversity and species richness); descriptive biogeography (including a discussion on the Palearctic region boundaries based on reptile distribution and the herpeto-geographic sectors of the Western Palearctic); conservation status. A list of more than 730 references quoted in the text and high quality colour plates including photos of the most of the supraspecific taxa living in the study area completes the book.
Sindaco, R. & Luiselli, L. (2011) -
Sindaco, R. & Paggetti, E. (2011) -
Sindaco, R. & Razzetti, E. (2021) -
This paper represents an update of the list of Italian amphibians and reptiles published 15 years ago by Razzetti et al. (2006) and of the checklist published in 1993 by the late Benedetto Lanza. At present, the Italian herpetofauna includes 100 species (41 amphibians and 59 reptiles) and an amphibian taxon of hybrid origin. Seven species and one subspecies are allochthonous and became naturalized within the last century. Since the last published list, a new species has been described (Vipera walser), five taxa have been raised to species rank (Salamandrina perspicillata, Speleomantes sarrabusensis, Zootoca carniolica, Malpolon insignitus and Natrix helvetica) while three taxa have been downgraded to subspecies. All the relevant taxonomic changes based upon new research have been discussed, including tentative revisions and controversial taxa. Nine species reported or listed dubitatively in Lanza’s 1993 list are excluded here.
Sindaco, R. & Restivo, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2016) -
Sindaco, R. & Rossi, R. (2020) -
The island of Lefkada is a popular and easily accessible tourist destination; nevertheless, there is no comprehensive checklist of its interesting herpetofauna. Indeed, most records are old, scattered in different papers, and lacking precise locality data. In order to summarize the knowledge on the herpetofauna of the island, we critically reviewed literature, we looked for reliable records in the web and we carried out a field survey in May 2019. The herpetofauna of Lefkada amounts to 28 species (six amphibians and 22 reptiles). The occurrence of Testudo graeca on the island is considered unlikely, while an additional species, Testudo marginata, is here reported based on web sources. Among the species recorded on the island, 25 have been recently confirmed, two of them (Rana dalmatina and Anguis graeca) over a century. For three species (Lissotriton graecus, Chelonia mydas, and Podarcis tauricus) the last records date back to over 30 years ago.
Sindaco, R. & Serra, G. & Menegon, M. (2006) -
Sindaco, R. & Simó-Riudalbas, M. & Sacchi, R. & Carranza, S. (2018) -
Mesalina are small diurnal lacertid lizards inhabiting arid areas from North Africa to northwestern India. Previous phylo- genetic studies have shown the existence of several species complexes within the genus, some of them with high levels of undiscovered diversity. In the present study, we carry out an integrative systematic revision of the Mesalina guttulata spe- cies complex using both molecular and morphological data from across its entire distribution range in North Africa, the Middle East and Arabia. The results of the genetic analyses indicate that M. guttulata and M. bahaeldini are two allopatric sister taxa separated by the Suez Canal and that the species complex includes a further three unnamed deep phylogenetic lineages, two of them restricted to southern and southwestern Arabia and described herein as Mesalina austroarabica sp. nov. and Mesalina arnoldi sp. nov., respectively. As a result of the lack of enough material, the third deep lineage, distrib- uted across Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Jordan, is provisionally left undescribed. The two newly described species are char- acterized by their size, scale counts and tail coloration, as well as differences at the three mitochondrial and one nuclear gene analyzed in the present study.
Sindaco, R. & Venchi, A. & Carpaneto, G.M. & Bologna, M.A. (2000) -
Sindaco, R. & Venchi, A. & Corti, C. & Paggetti, E. (2011) -
Sindaco, R. & Venchi, A. & Grieco, C. (2011) -
Sinel, J. (1907) -
Sinervo, B. & Heulin, B. & Surget-Groba, Y. & Clobert, L. & Miles, D.B. & Corl, A. & Chaine, A. & Davis, A. (2007) -
We describe new ESS models of density regulation driven by genic selection to explain the cyclical dynamics of a social system that exhibits a rock-paper-scissors (RPS) set of three alternative strategies. We tracked changes in morph frequency and fitness of Lacerta vivipara and found conspicuous RPS cycles. Morphs of Uta and Lacerta exhibited parallel survival-performance trade-offs. Frequency cycles in both species of lizards are driven by genic selection. In Lacerta, frequency of each allele in adult cohorts had significant impacts on juvenile recruitment, similar to mutualistic, altruistic, and antagonistic relations of RPS alleles in Uta. We constructed evolutionarily stable strategy (ESS) models in which adults impact juvenile recruitment as a function of self versus nonself color recognition. ESS models suggest that the rapid 4-year RPS cycles exhibited by Lacerta are not possible unless three factors are present: behaviors evolve that discriminate self versus nonself morphs at higher rates than random, self- versus non-self-recognition contributes to density regulation, and context-dependent mate choice evolves in females, which choose sire genotypes to enhance progeny survival. We suggest genic selection coupled to density regulation is widespread and thus fundamental to theories of social system evolution as well as theories of population regulation in diverse animal taxa.
Sinety, A.A.M.E. Compte de (1855) -
Singh, S. & Singh, P. (1972) -
Sinke, R.C.J. (1973) -
Three couples Lacerta trilineata were caught in Yougoslavia. After 3.5 years only one couple was still alive. Temperature was kept high in winter.
Sion, G. & Flyer, E. & Werner, Y.L. (2018) -
Siracusa, A.M. & Larosa, V. & Petralia, E. (2012) -
The black rat Rattus rattus (Linnaeus, 1758) in insular environments represents a threat for many species of vertebrates, invertebrates and plants, especially in equatorial islands. In the Mediterranean Basin as regards the herpetofauna, and lizards of the genus Podarcis in particular, the information available are still few. Since 2006, a study was initiated to verify the possible impact of the black rat on the micro-insular population of Podarcis sicula (Rafinesque, 1810) living in Lachea island, a natural reserve. During 2011 were collected and analyzed 2873 excrements of rats and in no case were found remains attributable to Podarcis sicula. The density of lizards, observed with the technique of the transept, was 0.3 ind./10 m2. During the period 2006-2011 were analyzed (also by molecular type investigation) a total of 4696 excrements of rat, with no confirmation of predation against Podarcis sicula. However the rat predation on insects may cause an indirect effect like competition and have negative effects on populations of invertebrates and therefore also on Podarcis sicula. Moreover the Lachea island is affected by a moderate tourism. The lizards, in those very frequented areas, show lower values of the body condition index and a decrease of cells responsible for immune response. Although is not documented any form of predation by the black rat, that species is a potential source of threat and a combined action of the factors mentioned with accidental events, makes this small micro-insular population of Podarcis sicula as vulnerable to suddendecreases in numbers.
Siracusa, A.M. & Messina, A. & Monaco, I. & Petralia, A. & Petralia, E. & Rappazzo, G. (2010) -
A research on food habits of a microinsular population of Black rat (Rattus rattus) was carried out in Integral Natural Reserve of `Isola Lachea e Faraglioni dei Ciclopi`, by analyzing 716 scatts collected during the months of April, May, June, July, August, October and December 2007 and January, February, March, April of 2008 in 4 different stations. To verify the presence of Podarcis sicula ciclopica in the scatts, 33 of them were subjected to DNA analysis. Rats diet consists predominantly in vegetal matter; was also detected the presence of insects and birds, although in much lower percentages. Predation on the insects is greater than that on the birds, in a statistically significance. The most quntity of insects was found during the month of August, while the highest presence of birds in the month of June. Predation of insects is statistically higher in station. 2, in comparison to station 1 and 3. The niche width was similar in the different sample stations, with lower values during winter months and higher during summer. No remains of Podarcis sicula ciclopica was found in examined scats and no DNA amplification was produced in that samples tested. Based on current data there is no demostration on direct negative factors endangering the conservation of this small population of Lacertide. However the possible negative effects of predation on insects and plants, primarily on rare species, in not to be excluded.
Sivan, N. & Y.L. Werner (1992) -
Sivereo, F. & Rodriguez-Rodriguez (2011) -
Siverio, F. & Felipe, P. (2009) -
Siverio, F. & Barone, R. & Delgado, G. (2008) -
Siverio, F. & Rodríguez-Rodríguez, M.C. (2011) -
Siverio, F. & Rodríguez-Rodríguez, M.C. (2012) -
Skawinski, T. (2015) -
Skawiński, T. & Borczyk, B. & Turniak, E. (2015) -
Skawinski, T. & Borczyk, B. & Turniak, E. (2017) -
Palatal dentition in lizards is incompletely known, especially data on its variability are scarce. We studied variation in the number of pterygoid teeth in three species of Podarcis, a species-rich genus of lacertid lizards: terrestrial, P. siculus and saxicolous, P. erhardii and P. cretensis. In contrast to some previous studies, we found no sexual dimorphism in the number of palatal teeth in any of these species. The number of teeth was not correlated to lizard size. In our sample, P. cretensis on average had more teeth than did P. erhardii but fewer than did P. siculus. In addition, some specimens of P. cretensis and P. siculus showed asymmetry in the number of pterygoid teeth, which may be a result of anthropogenic pressure. The observed variability in the occurrence of palatal dentition illustrates the importance of scoring this character in phylogenetic analyses only on the basis of a sufficient sample.
Skawinski, T. & Kolenda, K. & Zajac, B. & Kaczmarski, N. (2019) -
The occurrence of the European green lizard Lacerta viridis in Poland has been a controversial topic for many years. Currently, the species has regionally extinct or probably extinct status in Poland (EXP – Polish Red Book of Animals. Vertebrata). Occasionally, there are unconfirmed reports about ist presence in Poland. However, there are no data that unambiguously indicate natural occurrence of this species within Polish borders. In this article, we review historical and contemporary data on the occurrence of green lizard in Poland and discuss its conservation status.
Skorobrekhova, E. & Nikishin, V. (2016) -
This study presents the structure of the capsule around the acanthocephalan Sphaerirostris picae (Rudolphi, 1819) Golvan, 1956, in its natural paratenic host, Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758. The capsule was composed of 2 layers: a thin, dense inner layer and a loose, thick outer layer. The inner layer was formed by macrophages and multinucleated cells. The outer layer consisted mainly of flattened fibroblasts, which included a small number of macrophages, granulocytes, plasma cells and pigment cells; the extensive intercellular spaces between these cells were filled with collagen fibers. The acanthocephalans are thought to have particular defense mechanisms that diminish phagocytic activity of immune system cells in the host.
Skrijelj, R. & Lelo, S. & Dreskovic, N. & Sofradzija, A. & Trozic-Borovac, S. & Korjenic, E. (2013) -
Skrobánek, M. (2021) -
The main deal of this bachelor thesis is the colour variability and change of coloration from the perspective of the predation of the Sand lizard. I am examining the meaning of this changes on the specific localities and in the specific populations. Groundwork of my bachelor thesis, is collections of data, in form of Sand lizards (Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758) photos and their further processing. Based on the morphometry of the particular body parts, (especially the one about the tail regeneration), I determine potential level of the predation. Using the data from lizard populations from two localities in Opava region, I want to explore and possibly verify the function of the colour variability with respect to predation. For better understanding and optional generalisation over the species, my results are supplemented with data from other localities in Czech Republic and Slovakia. This broader dataset is included in the results and discussion to help to corroborate conclusions of my thesis. This bachelor thesis consist from two parts, the theoretical and the practical part. Theoretical part of my thesis is about colour variability of sand lizard in general. Gradually the topic is going deeper in the terms of the colour variability and tail regenerates, focusing on the level of the predation, implementing also the different levels of human impact in localities. Practical part of my thesis include my descriptione of the the population of the sand lizard on the chosen localities in the Opava region. With help of the morphometric analysis and the evaluation of the colour variability between individual lizards, I am comparing contrasting these populations and pattern within them. The important part of this comparing is profound characteristic of chosen localities from the view of anthropogenic impact to environment and predator structure. Thanks to the fact that this thesis is part of wide study of the sand lizard coloration, I can embed my results within the wider dataset from other parts of the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Skrypka, M.V. & Panikar, I.I. & Kyrychko, B.P. & Tul, O.I. (2020) -
The features of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) digestive tube morphology are presented in the article. It has been found that the sand lizard gastrointestinal tract includes oral cavity, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine and cloaca. The mucous membrane of the oral cavity is lined with non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium. The esophagus is represented by an extensible canal; the distinction between the esophagus and the stomach is not expressed. The availability of a large number of ventricular fossae have stipulated a large area of the gastric mucosa and its cellular structure. The stomach is separated from the duodenum by a well-developed annular fold (pylorus). Villi of the duodenal mucosa are narrow, of different heights, covered with a single layer of columnar epithelium. The jejunum villi are of a more elongated shape, with more goblet cells and fewer crypts, the ileum villi are short. Small clumps of lymphoid cells are observed in the mucous membrane of the small intestine. The mucous membrane of the large intestine is lined with ordinary columnar epithelium containing goblet cells. Lymphoid aggregates are found in the wall of the large intestine. The cecum, as a distinct morphological section of the large intestine, is not presented.
Škvarč, A. (1999) -
Škvarč, A. (2000) -
Slavchev, M.L. & Popgeorgiev, G.S. & Tzankov, N.D. (2019) -
Pastrina Protected Area, a medium-sized Natura 2000 protected area in NW Bulgaria, was chosen as a model site for studying the species diversity of amphibians and reptiles in relation to habitat diversity. The analyses encompass field data for a five-year period. The territory of the survey was divided into a 1 x 1 km grid. The number of species and the number of habitats were recorded for each grid cell. For open and agricultural habitats data were taken from a map with physical blocks. For forested territories, the national forest database was used. The grid cells with missing data were filled in using CORINE Land Cover. A list of threats was prepared in order to estimate their impact. A strong correlation between habitat and species diversity was found: the latter was clearly determined by the presence of certain habitats known to maintain high species diversity. Habitats such as the thermophilous deciduous forests and their surrounding territories were the most important habitats, with higher species diversity and a higher percentage of species of conservation priority, e.g. Triturus cristatus, Bombina bombina, B. variegata and Testudo hermanni. These species were found from only 11.7% of the territory of the protected area, that makes those species vulnerable, with an uncertain future status.
Slavenko, A. & Maza, E. & Itescu, Y. (2018) -
Small islets in the Mediterranean Sea are often home to reptiles, typically representing an impoverished sample of the continental fauna, yet with high population densities and signs of rapid morphological and behavioral evolution. In this paper, we present the first herpetofaunal survey of several small islet clusters in close proximity to the Mediterranean coast of Israel, only recently geologically separated from the mainland. We performed surveys of five islets during March of 2017 – 2018 and recorded the presence of five different species of reptiles on four of the surveyed islets. Species richness varied between 1 and 4 species, and appeared to be correlated with island area, with a distinct nested structure. Reptile species may have colonized the islets by natural dispersal from nearby coastal populations, or by hitch-hiking on fishing boats and similar methods of human-assisted dispersal. Alternatively, the recorded reptiles may represent relictual populations from earlier geologic periods, when lower sea-levels supported continuous land-bridges between the islets and the mainland. These insular reptile populations require further study to establish the exact means of colonization and describe if and how they differ from mainland populations. We stress the importance of such small Mediterranean islets such as these as centers of unique biodiversity and encourage future study and conservation action aimed at them and similar islets.
Sleijpen, F. (1996) -
Experience with Podarcis dugesii. In the Dutch language terrarium literature there is almost no information available about the Madeira wall lizard, except notes that it is an aggressive species and data on egg incubation. Podarcis dugesii is a very variable lizard with dorsal coloration varying from yellow-brown to black with yellow of greenish speckles. A line of light speckles on a dark background cover the flanks. Three subspecies have been described. In the wild their diet consists of both insect and plant material. In the terrarium they exhibit a clear preference for insects. As regards choice of biotope Podarcis dugesii is not very selective but the animals are usually found in proximity to water. In a large terrarium it is sometimes possible to combine them with other Podarcis species. In the case discussed this occurred with Podarcis sicula campestris. The terrarium holding the animals had a dry/warm and a damper/cooler area. Hibernation lasted 75-110 days at a temperature of 0-8 °C. The eggs, which were not removed from the terrarium, hatched successfully. The young animals were reared away from the parents. The greatest problem with this species is to find new homes for the young produced.
Slimani, T. & Mateo Miras, J.A. & Geniez, P. & Joger, U. (2006) -
Slimani, T. & Roux, P. (1994) -
Šloser, L. (1870) -
Slotopolsky, B. (1922) -
Smajda, B. & Majláth (1999) -
Šmek, P. (2007) -
Smet, W.H.O. de (1981) -
Šmíd, J. (2009) -
Šmíd, J. & Frynta, D. (2012) -
The lacertid lizard Mesalina watsonana is widely distributed on the Iranian plateau where it is one of the most common lizards. However, the intraspecific variability and the phylogenetic position of this species within the genus still remain unknown. We sequenced a 715bp long fragment of the mtDNA cytochrome b gene from lizards sampled in 10 localities covering the Iranian distribution range of the species. We identified four distinct and geographically isolated clades with an average genetic divergence between them ranging from 9.8 to 13.1% (p-distance) which is comparable to the values of genetic distance commonly reported between Lacertidae species. Analyses combining data from recently published phylogeny of the genus Mesalina with our dataset confirmed the monophyly of M. watsonana. The isolation of this species from the rest of the genus points out the important role of the Zagros Mountains uplift during the Miocene. It is possible that this geological event participated on the isolation of the ancestor of M. watsonana from the rest of the Mesalina lizards and together with the upheaval of the whole Iranian plateau provided suitable environmental conditions for rapid diversification of this species.
Šmíd, J. & Moravec, J. & Gvoždík, V. & Štundl, J. & Frynta, D. & Lymberakis, P. & Kapli, P. & Wilms, T. & Schmitz, A. & Shobrak, M. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S. & Rastegar-Pouyani, E. & Castilla, A.M. & Els, J. & Mayer, W. (2017) -
Mesalina are small lacertid lizards occurring in the Saharo-Sindian deserts from North Africa to the east of the Iranian plateau. Earlier phylogenetic studies indicated that there are several species complexes within the genus and that thorough taxonomic revisions are needed. In this study, we aim at resolving the phylogeny and taxonomy of the M. brevirostris species complex distributed from the Middle East to the Arabian/Persian Gulf region and Pakistan. We sequenced three mitochondrial and three nuclear gene fragments, and in combination with species delimitation and species-tree estimation, we infer a time-calibrated phylogeny of the complex. The results of the genetic analyses support the presence of four clearly delimited species in the complex that diverged approximately between the middle Pliocene and the Pliocene/Pleistocene boundary. Species distribution models of the four species show that the areas of suitable habitat are geographically well delineated and nearly allopatric, and that most of the species have rather divergent environmental niches. Morphological characters also confirm the differences between the species, although sometimes minute. As a result of all these lines of evidence, we revise the taxonomy of the Mesalina brevirostris species complex. We designate a lectotype for Mesalina brevirostris Blanford, 1874; resurrect the available name Eremias bernoullii Schenkel, 1901 from the synonymy of M. brevirostris; elevate M. brevirostris microlepis (Angel, 1936) to species status; and describe Mesalina saudiarabica, a new species from Saudi Arabia.
Šmíd, J. & Moravec, J. & Kodym, P. & Kratochvil, L. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. & Frynta, D. (2014) -
We present a comprehensive summary of the distribution of the lizards of Iran accompanied by an annotated checklist. The updated maps of distribution of all 146 species of 41 genera of 11 families are based on all available bibliographic records, catalogues of museum collections and our own field observations. The final dataset used for the distribution maps contains 8525 georeferenced records and cover 41% of the country when plotted on a grid of 0.25° × 0.25° resolution. The dataset is publicly accessible through GBIF portal (http://www.gbif.org/dataset/7db4f705-61ae-4c6e-9de2-06674e7d46b2). Following the latest biogeographic division of the country, ~53% of the species (76 species) inhabit the Iranian Province, ~41% (60 species) the Western Asian mountain transition zone, ~9% (13 species) the Turanian Province, and ~18% (27 species) the Arabian Province. In addition, ~2% (3 species) reach Iran from the Indo-Malay biogeographic region and ~2% (3 species) are believed to have been introduced to Iran by humans. Endemic species (46) represent ~32% of the known species diversity. The most species-rich family of lizards in Iran is Lacertidae with 47 species, followed by Gekkonidae (41), Agamidae (18), Scincidae (15), Phyllodactylidae (10), Sphaerodactylidae (4), Eublepharidae and Uromastycidae (3), Anguidae and Varanidae (2), and Trogonophidae with one representative.
Smid, J. & Sindaco, R. & Shobrak, N. & Busais, S. & Tarnar, K. & Aghová, T. & Simó-Riudalbas, M. & Tarroso, P. & Geniez, P. & Crochet, P.A. & Els, J. & Burriel-Carranza, B. & Tejero-Cicuéndez, H. & Carranza, S. (2021) -
Aim: Deserts are generally perceived as areas of low diversity, and hence receive little attention from researchers and conservationists. Squamates are the dominant group of vertebrates in arid regions, and as such represent an ideal model to study biodiversity patterns in these areas. We examine spatial patterns of diversity, evolutionary history and endemism of terrestrial squamates of the Arabian Peninsula and test hypotheses on the role of topography and history of isolation so as to identify possible environmental drivers of diversification. Location: The Arabian Peninsula. Taxon: Squamate reptiles (Squamata; lizards and snakes). Methods: We generated distribution maps for all Arabian squamate species (including yet undescribed) and reconstructed their phylogenetic relationships using existing and newly produced genetic data for nearly all the species. We assessed patterns of the distribution of species richness, phylogenetic diversity and phylogenetic en demism across the peninsula to identify areas that could be considered evolutionary or endemicity hotspots for squamates. We evaluated community turnover across the peninsula and assessed the possible environmental drivers affecting the diversity of Arabian squamates in a regression framework. Results: The main hotspots of Arabian squamate diversity are mostly along the mountains that rim the peninsula while the most arid, central regions support a low diversity of species. The distribution of the phylogenetic diversity mirrors that of the species richness. Phylogenetic endemism is also highest in the mountains, especially when only endemic species are analysed. The deserts of northern Arabia are poor in terms of species richness and they show low connectivity to the peninsular communities. Topographic heterogeneity is the strongest predictor for Arabian squamates, followed by elevation. There is no correlation between richness and temperature. Main conclusions: The mountains of Arabia support rich and unique squamate communities that are dominated by local radiations of closely related and narrow-ranging species. In particular, the Asir Mountains of SW Arabia, Dhofar Province of Oman and the Hajar Mountains of northern Oman and UAE show unprecedented levels of squamate endemism and phylogenetic endemism. While many generalist species range across Arabia, a low number of species is shared between the peninsula and mainland Asia, indicating an effective isolation of the Arabian fauna. Squamate richness is highest in heterogeneous, topographically complex habitats.
Šmíd, J. et al. (2025) -
Background The lacertid genus Mesalina has been the subject of several phylogenetic and biogeographic studies as well as taxonomic revisions within the last decade. The genus is partitioned into seven main clades, some of which represent species complexes of morphologically very similar species. The Mesalina guttulata species complex is one such case. This complex currently comprises four described species that occur through Arabia and northern Africa, however, the presence of a cryptic species in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Jordan was pointed out recently. For this study, we collected new material of the various species of the M. guttulata complex, including the undescribed lineage from across Saudi Arabia. We carried out multilocus phylogenetic analyses using three mitochondrial and three nuclear markers and analysis of morphological data to verify whether the undescribed lineage deserves a species rank. Results The results show that the lineage is clearly genetically separated from the other species of the complex and shows morphological differentiation from the other species. Therefore, we describe it herein as a new species, Mesalina cryptica sp. nov. Conclusions We contribute to the taxonomy of Arabian lacertid lizards by describing a new species distributed in central Saudi Arabia, with isolated populations occurring in Kuwait and Jordan. Despite its large range, the species is genetically and morphologically homogeneous. The gap in its distribution between the Jordan and Saudi Arabia populations is ascribable to the paucity of sampling along the Saudi/Iraqi border. Keywords Lizards, Mesopotamia, Middle East, Sauria, Squamates, Reptiles, Taxonomy
Smirina, E.M. & Makarov, A.N. & Orlova, V.F. (1984) -
Smirina, E.M. & Roitberg, E.S. (2012) -
Principal trends and methods of investigating the postnatal growth in reptiles are discussed. Particular attention is paid to the development of the method of skeletochronology, which enables age determination of individuals, back-calculation of their body length in years before the capture, and reconstruction of growth curves based on such data.
Смирина Э.М. & Ройтберг Е.С. (2012) -
Обсуждаются основные направления и методики исследования постнатального роста рептилий. Главное внимание уделено развитию метода скелетохронологии, благодаря которому стало возможно определение индивидуального возраста особей, обратное расчисление размеров тела за годы, прожитые животным до поимки, и построение кривых роста.
Smit, G.F.J. (2001) -
Smith, A. (1838) -
Smith, A. (1845) -
Smith, A. (1849) -
Smith, M.A. (1935) -
Smole-Wiener, A.K. (2020) -
Smolinsky, R. (2016) -
Smolinský, T. & Hiadlovská, Z. & Martinková, N. (2021) -
Sexual reproduction imposes risks on participating adults through increased probability of injury, predation pressure, or parasite exposure. Evolutionary theory predicts that animals will tolerate parasite infection during reproduction at the expense of increased parasite load, resulting in individual trade-offs between the temporary costs of current reproduction against the long-term evolutionary benefits in the form of life-long production of viable offspring. We tested this hypothesis, predicting that participation in sexual reproduction increases parasite exposure by investigating ectoparasite load on sand lizards (Lacerta agilis). Using generalized additive models to correct for bimodal seasonal dynamics of ectoparasite activity, site and year, we found that ectoparasite load is higher in adults (animals that overwintered at least twice) than in subadults that overwintered once only. Between sexes of adult sand lizards, males had a higher number of blood-sucking ectoparasites than females. Our results indicate that both sexually-motivated extensive locomotion associated with territory defence and mate search in males, and increased energy uptake during gestation in females, contribute to elevated ectoparasite exposure. Increased host mobility associated with increased ectoparasite exposure leads to collateral burden of reproduction on sand lizard populations.
Snell, C. (1983) -
Snell, C. (1984) -
Snell, F.H. (1867) -
Snowden, D.T. (1987) -
Sobolenko, L.Y. & Nekrasova, O.D. & Sorokina, S.I. & Moroz, L.M. (2018) -
The results of the research of the current state of reptiles in Western Podillia were presented. Morphometric traits were described; habitat, spread and number of 9 reptile species belonging to 2 lines and 5 families were studied. The regional extinction of Elaphe longissima, which was at the edge of the habitat, was identified. It has been established that the borders of habitats are in the territory of Western Podillia: for Natrix tessellata and Lacerta.viridis – the northern one, for Lacerta vivipara – the southern one. The survey of the found species was made. It was shown that Lacerta agilis appeared to be the most numerous species among reptiles, although its number decreased due to human transformed natural habitats. Such species as Emys orbicularis, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta viridis, Lacerta vivipara, Coronella austriaca and Vipera berus are in a dangerous situation. These species are found sporadically, and there are all reasons to consider them as those which have decreased their number considerably. Natrix natrix and Natrix tessellata are common species. The analysis of reptile occurrence within the region of research has shown that, as to their number, species gravitate to the east and south-east of the region, covering the areas along the left bank of the Dniester River (“Dnistrovskyi canyon”) in Western Podillia Prydnistrovia (administrative territories of Zalishchyky, Bucha, Borshchiv districts of Ternopil region). In Tovtry ridge, they mostly concentrate in the territories of Zbarazh, Pidvolochysk, Husiatyn districts of Ternopil region and Kamianets-Podilsk and Chemerov districts of Khmenlnytskyi region. It is worth mentioning that the area with the highest reptile occurrence coincides with that of reserve “Medobory” and to a lesser degree with the territory of NNP “Podilski Tovtry”. To a great extent the area of reptile concentration coincides with the territory of natural park “Dnistrovskyi canyon”, in particular, closer to the hills of the Dniester River on a tract Beramiany – Ustechko, Zalishchyky – Kasperivtsi (Obizhev and Kasperivskyi reserves) and the outskirts of Dzvenyhorod village, Borshchiv district. In general, the state of reptiles in the region tends to the reduction of the number and diversity of these representatives.
Sobolevsky, N I. (1930) -
Description of Lacerta viridis magnifica.
Sobolevsky, N.I. (1930) -
Sochurek, E. (1955) -
Sochurek, E. (1956) -
Lacerta sicula kurtklari, eine none Rasse von der Insel Krk (Veglia). Typus: Ein Parchen adult (abgcbildet) in meiner Privatsammlung. Wird spater dem Natur-Museum Berlin ubcrgeben. Terra lypjca: Steinmauern am Strand von Malinska aul der Insel Krk (Veglia), Jugoslavien. Untersuchtes Material: 40 erwachsene Exemplare. Diagnose: Unterscheidet sich von der am benach- barten Festland lebenden Lacerta sicula campestris durch bedeutendcre Grdsse und Starke, die Rot- bauchigkeit der Mannchen und durch die schr deul- liche Aufhelluny von Farbung und Zeichnung. Beschreibung: Lacerta sicula kurtklari ist eine grosse, stark aufgehellto Rasse, bei der die alten Mannchen fast ausnahmslos rotbauchig sind, was bet fcstliindischen Rasscn von Lacerta sicula nur ausserst selten vorkommt. Die am benachbarten Festland lokal vorkommende Lacerta sicula campestris ist viol krafti- ger gefarbt und gezeichnet und von schwacherer Gestalt. Der Kopf von Lacerta sicula kurtklari ist sehr helltarbig, ohne jede dunkle Zeichnung — mil Aus- nahnu; einigcr hellbraunlicher Spritzer — und der sonst so kriiftigblaue AchsolNeck ist blass hiinmelblau und oft nur schwach angedeutet. Die hellen Riicken* und Seitenstreifen fehlen vollkommen odor sind nur kurz angedeutet. Die dunkle Zeichnung auf der Ruckcn- mitte beschriinkt sich nur auf das vordere Drittel und besteht aus einigen nicht zusammenhangondeu dunklen Flecken. Die seitliche Netzzeichnung ist grol>er als bei Lacerta sicula campestris jedoch sehr verb lass t. Das Griin auf dem Riicken ist sehr hell und weich und die Schwanzzeichnung nicht sehr kraftig.
Sochurek, E. (1957) -
Sochurek, E. (1958) -
Das von H. G. Walter gemeldete Vorkommen des Feuersalamanders im Leithagebirge ist neu, bedarf jedoch einer Überprüfung. Vielleicht liegt eine Verwechslung mit dem Donaukammolch vor, einem im Leithagebirge stellenweise nicht seltenen Schwanzlurch. Die von Walter als „Bergunken` bezeichnenden Unken aus dem Leithagebirge sind einwandfreie Tieflandunken, mit vielleicht etwas blasser gefärbten Bäuchen. Die von H. G. Walter erwähnten Fundorte von Smaragdeidechse, Äskulapnatter, Würfelnatter und Wiesenotter sind auch E. Sochurek gut bekannt, wurden aber aus bereits erwähnten Gründen nicht einzeln aufgezählt.
Sochurek, E. (1978) -
Sochurek, E. (1982) -
Sochurek, E. (1985) -
Sochurek, E. (1986) -
Sociedade Galega de Historia Natural (2019) -
Societat Catalana D‘Herpetologia (2001) -
Sociéte Herpétologique de France (2017) -
Soffel, E. (1914) -
Sogaard, B. & Andrados, L.C. (2014) -
Sokolov, L.V. (2019) -
Novel data on the distribution, habitats and population density of the Crimean (Balkan) wall lizard, Podarcis tauricus (Pallas, 1814) in the Odessa Province of the Ukraine are given. For the majority of the localities known from the literature data in the Pre-Danube Region, the current dwelling of the species was confirmed, and its population density over limited areas remains quite high, namely: from 5–10 to 70–100 specimens/1000 sq. m. The northernmost point of the P. tauricus geographical range in the Odessa Province was revealed on the territory of Tatarbunarsky district (N 45.7791, E 29.4843). At the same time, the Crimean wall lizard was not found by us in the area between the Dniester River and the Tiligulskyi Liman, although this species had been known there from few records during the 20th century. This allows one to assume that the P. tauricus range in the North-Western Black Sea Region has de- creased. The tendency of using some types of anthropogenic habitats in the Steppe zone of Ukraine by the Crimean wall lizard, as well as cases of its syntopy with other Lacertidae species, are discussed.
Соколов, Л.В. (2019) -
Приводятся данные о распространении, биотопах и плотности популяций крымской ящерицы, Podarcis tauricus (Pallas, 1814), в Одесской области Украины. Обитание вида подтверждено для большинства известных по литературным данным локалитетов в Придунавье, причем плотность популяций локально остается достаточно высокой: от 5 – 10 до 70 – 100 особей в пересчете на 1000 м2. Наиболее северный пункт ареала P. tauricus в Одес- ской области (N 45.7791, E 29.4843) выявлен на территории Татарбунарского района. В то же время на участке между р. Днестр и Тилигульским лиманом, откуда крымская ящерица известна по немногочисленным находкам в XX в., она нами не обнаружена, что позволяет предполагать сокращение ареала P. tauricus в Северо-Западном Причерноморье. Обсуждается тенденция к использованию крымской ящерицей в степной зоне Украины неко- торых типов антропогенных биотопов, а также случаи ее синтопии с другими видами Lacertidae.
Sokolov, L.V. (2021) -
Соколов Л.В. (2021) -
Somaweera, R. & Lilley, R. & Putra, A. & Ganz, P. & Govendan, P.N. & McKay, J.L. & Milenkaya, O. (2018) -
Somaweera, R. & Somaweera, N. (2009) -
Somlai, T. (2020) -
Sommani, E. (1948) -
Sommer, H. (2017) -
Sommer, R. & Zoller, H. & Kock, D. & Böhme, W. & Griesau, A. (2005) -
In the abandoned quarry of San Carlos (Ibiza, Balearics) prey remains of the barn owl were collected. A total of 6,977 identifiable bone remains from 2,767 individuals of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians was found. The spectrum of mammals clearly shows two main prey groups: mice (Mus domesticus, M. spretus: 39.4 %) and shrews (Crocidura russula, C. suaveolens: 38.4 %). Voles, which in continental Europe are the owl ≈s most numerous prey, are absent on Ibiza; these were replaced by mice and shrews. The record of the Pityusic wall lizard Podarcis pityusensis in the prey remains (0.5%) is remarkable. Obviously, the periods of activity of lizard and barn owl do not ordinarily overlap. One possible explanation might be that due to low prey density, Tyto alba probably starts hunting earlier during summer with its shorter nights. A skull of the European free-tailed bat (Tadarida teniotis) was recorded from the sediment, definitely confirming this species for the first time on Ibiza.
Song, J.-Y. (2007) -
In order to characterize the current status and distribution of reptiles currently inhabiting the Republic of Korea, the results of survey data were analyzed in this study. The results of this analysis showed that the reptiles were distributed into two orders, seven families, and 21 species, with the exception of six marine reptiles, including Dermochelys coriacea schlegelii, Chelonia mydas japonica, Caretta caretta, Hydrophis melanocephalus, Hydrophis cyanocinctus, and Pelamis platrrus. Also, the taxonomic revisions of several species were suggested, although this would be ill-advised before further studies can be conducted regarding the current status of marine reptiles in the region.
송재영 (2007) -
Song, J.Y. & Chang, M.H. & Koo, K.S. (2014) -
To determine the size of an Eremias argus population at Baramarae beach in Taeanhaean National Park, we used Peterson’s index and Schnabel’s index. In addition, we provided physical characteristics of male and female E. argus. During our study period, we captured total 152 lizards and among them, 23 individuals were recaptured. The 152 lizards consisted of 54 adult males, 79 adult females, and 19 subadults, respectively. Physical characteristics such as snout-vent length (SVL), tail length (TL), and body mass (BM) were not different between males and females. We recaptured total 23 individuals which consisted of six males and seventeen females. More females (21.5%) tended to be recaptured than males (11.1%), with total average recapture rate of 15.1%. The size of the E. argus population at Baramarae beach was estimated as 438 individuals (Min.-Max.: 226-650) by the Peterson’s method and 470 individuals (Min.-Max.: 334-796) by the Schnabel’s method.
Song, J.Y. & Koo, K.S. & Chang, M.H. (2010) -
In order to investigate the movement and home range of the Mongolian racerunner, Eremias argus in Taeanhaean National Park, we conducted a capture-recapture study between May 2008 to June 2009. We captured 164 individuals and recaptured 28 individuals. The moved distance of E. argus during the study period was 20.9 ± 52.1 m (male 44.8 ± 110.2 m, female 14.1 ± 12.3 m), and the home range of four lizards were estimated as 4 m2, 7 m2, 34 m2 and 84m2 (31.5 ± 37.8 m2), respectively.
송재영, 구교성, 장민호 (2010) -
Song, M.T. (1987) -
Song, Q.-R. & Yang, C. & Liu, P. & Zhao, W.-G. (2015) -
The molting behavior of common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) was observed directly in the laboratory from May to August, 2014. These lizards were transported to our laboratory in Harbin and were housed in the communal cage with moist soil, grasses and pieces of clay tile provided as shelter sites. Food including mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor) and house crickets (Achetus domestica) with multivitamins and minerals and water were provided daily. Hatchlings were collected, weighed and measured. These measurements were repeated every 15 days for both new hatchlings and adults. Molting behavior, molting process duration and cycle of the lizards were record at 8:00, 10:00, 14:00 and 16:00 every day during this study, respectively. All statistical analyses were performed with the SPSS 13.0. We used linear regression analysis, correlation analysis, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and LSD test to analyze the corresponding data. In the paper, values are presented as Mean ± SE, and the significance level is set at α = 0.05. The molting of adult common lizards ranged from 0 to 3 in their breeding period (from June to July) with no any significant difference between gender, and no positively correlated with body length and body weight (Table 1). Most adult lizards was usually completed moltling process within one day (Fig. 1). The duration of molting was not difference significantly between males and females (Fig. 2). The shortest molting cycle of the adult lizard was 8 days with variation. Four moltings were observed on new hatchings during the study period with intervals 10.62 d, 8.38 d, and 8.39 d (n = 42), respecetively. The molting behavior of the neonate lizard was correlated to its allometry and the lasting time of molting was negatively correled with the molting times (Fig. 4). The molting behaviors in the common lizard may be associated with the artificial feeding condition, or with the original living environment as well as their behavior strategy and other relevant factors.
Song, Z. & Li, T. (1985) -
Song, Z. & Zhao, K. (1983) -
Soofi, M. & Sharma, S. & Safaei-Mahroo, B. & Sohrabi, M. & Organli, M.G. & Waltert, M. (2022) -
Camouflage is a fitness-relevant trait that supports survival and fosters evolutionary adaptation by which animals match their body pattern to a background setting. Lichens are among the most common of these backgrounds that several animal species use for camouflage. Lichens are omnipresent and grow in wide arrays of colorations and compositions. Their composition and phenotypic diversity might facilitate cryptic coloration and habitat matching by various animal species. Here, we describe the role of lichens in providing camouflage to various animal species in central Asian and Caucasus mountain ecoregions, which are categorized as global biodiversity hotspots. Despite multiple ecological studies, no information is available on the role of this regions‘ lichen diversity in providing animal camouflage. Casual field observations of lichen camouflage are reported for four (one mammal and three reptile) species: the Persian Leopard’s Panthera pardus saxicolor body coat seems to closely match the colors and patterns of saxicolous lichens (Acarospora sp. and Circinaria sp.) in their habitat. A similar background matching pattern was observed in both morphs of the Caucasian Rock Agama Paralaudakia caucasia upon crustose lichens: Caloplaca spp., Circinaria spp., and the Radde’s Rock Lizard Darevskia raddei to the crustose lichens Acarospora sp. and Caloplaca sp. Likewise, the Horny-scaled Agama’s Trapelus ruderatus grey matches with the color of multiple lichens (Lecanora spp., Circinaria spp., Protoparmeliopsis spp., Rinodina spp., and Anaptychia spp.). Our observations preliminarily suggest that lichens play an important role for species of different trophic levels, ensuring adaptation and survival through camouflage. We call for more field- based empirical and experimental studies in various terrestrial ecosystems in other parts of the world to test the role of lichens in local adaption and evolutionary plasticity of regional species.
Soorae, P.S. (2004) -
Five species of geckos (Bunopus tuberculatus, Crytodacylus scaber, Hemidactylus flavivirdis, H. turcicus, and Pristurus rupestris), one lizard species (Mesalina brevirostris) and three snake species (Eryx jayakari, Coluber ventromaculatus and Psammophis schokari) were recorded on a total of 13 islands during a herpetological survey conducted in 2003-2004 in the Arabian Gulf, Abu Dhabi Emirate. The distribution and abundance of these species is also described in detail. Bunopus tuberculatus and Mesalina brevirostris are more commonly distributed on the islands and the remaining gecko species are limited only to certain islands, whilst the three snake species were recorded only on one island.
Soorae, P.S. & Al Quarqaz, M. & Gardner, A.S. (2010) -
This paper provides an updated checklist of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) native and alien herpetofauna. The UAE, while largely a desert country with a hyper-arid climate, also has a range of more mesic habitats such as islands, mountains, and wadis. As such it has a diverse native herpetofauna of at least 72 species as follows: two amphibian species (Bufonidae), five marine turtle species (Cheloniidae [four] and Dermochelyidae [one]), 42 lizard species (Agamidae [six], Gekkonidae [19], Lacertidae [10], Scincidae [six], and Varanidae [one]), a single amphisbaenian, and 22 snake species (Leptotyphlopidae [one], Boidae [one], Colubridae [seven], Hydrophiidae [nine], and Viperidae [four]). Additionally, we recorded at least eight alien species, although only the Brahminy Blind Snake (Ramphotyplops braminus) appears to have become naturalized. We also list legislation and international conventions pertinent to the herpetofauna.
Sopilko, N.G., Galoyan, E.A. (2021) -
Sorci, G. (1992) -
Sorci, G. (1995) -
I investigated longitudinal measures of haemogregarine load in the host lizard Lacerta vivipara over 2 yr (1992-1993). Lizards with heavy parasite infections in 1992 were still suffering from heavy parasite infections in 1993. Such data show that lizards have limited ability to recover from high levels of haemogregarine infection. Modifications of host behavior and of life-history traits may represent a more effective and less costly response to haemogregarine infection in this species.
Sorci, G. (1996) -
Patterns of haemogregarine load, aggregation, and prevalence as a function of host age in the lizard Lacerta vivipara were investigated. These parameters may provide evidence for the potential effect of parasites on host survival. The predictions of theoretical models concerning the shape of parasite load, parasite aggregation, and parasite prevalence across host age were used to test if parasites are a significant source of host mortality. Both age-intensity and age-aggregation curves were found to be peaked, whereas the age-prevalence curve increased with host age, reaching high levels (>80% of infected hosts). These findings of humped age-aggregation and age-intensity curves are in good agreement with the predictions of the Anderson and Gordon (1982) model and suggest that haemogregarines may influence age-dependent host mortality in this population of L. vivipara.
Sorci, G. & Clobert, J. (1995) -
Sorci, G. & Clobert, J. (1997) -
Environmental (i.e. non-genetic) maternal effects have the potential to associate the environmental conditions faced by mothers during gestation or before egg laying with the phenotype of their offspring. For this reason, maternal effects may play a major role in determining offspring phenotype independently of the genotype of the individuals, and can thus be considered a mechanistic basis of phenotypic plasticity. Despite the ecological and evolutionary implications of environmental maternal effects, few studies have experimentally investigated this phenomenon in reptiles. Here we report the results of an experimental laboratory study on the effects of maternal feeding rate and density on offspring locomotor performance in the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara). Lacerta vivipara is a viviparous lizard, and viviparity enhances the probability of a maternal influence on offspring phenotype. We focused on a particular phenotypic trait, maximal sprint running speed, because this trait is thought to be selectively important in squamates. Sprint speed was a repeatable trait, and it varied significantly among families. Maternal feeding rate significantly affected sprint speed, whereas density had no effect on this trait. The effect of maternal feeding rate differed according to the sex of the offspring and their body size, resulting in significant two-way and three-way interactions among these factors. In other words, the maternal feeding rate changed the shape of the allometric relationship between-speed and size, but differently for males and females. The complexity of such effects makes it extremely difficult to offer an adaptive interpretation, but emphasizes the role played by the environment in shaping phenotypes among generations.
Sorci, G. & Clobert, J. (1999) -
Differences in life-history traits among populations living in different environments can arise as adaptations to different selective regimes present in these environments. In this study, we investigated patterns of natural selection on body size (snout-vent length and tail length) and mass in hatchlings of the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) raised in two different environments, where the local populations of L. vivipara have different life-history traits. To investigate patterns of natural selection, we raised hatchlings from one high-altitude population in outdoor enclosures located at high and low altitude and we recaptured them before they entered hibernation. We found significant directional selection for higher hatchling body mass and tail length at both sites, whereas hatchling snout-vent length was not correlated with survival. Stabilizing selection gradients were not significant for any of the traits considered at both sites. Differential hatchling mortality may directly affect maternal investment in litter size. In this case, the proper focus of selection might be on mothers. We checked this issue by estimating: (1) the trade-off between litter size and hatchling size and mass; and (2) the correlation between litter size and the proportion of living offspring per litter. Although litter size was negatively associated with hatchling size and mass, we did not find any correlation between fecundity and offspring survival. In conclusion, we found no differences in the patterns of selection between the two environments. These findings are in agreement with previous results showing that differences in life-history traits between these high- and low-altitude populations may arise from plastic responses to proximate cues, rather than genetic adaptation to different selection pressures.
Sorci, G. & Clobert, J. & Belichon, S. (1996) -
1. In this study we investigated sources of variation in growth rate and survival in the common lizard Lacerta vivipara. 2. We conducted two experiments to identify factors that explain the pattern of geographic variation of life-history traits in this species. In the first experiment, we raised hatchlings from two French populations of L. vivipara, located at low (150m) and high (1400m) altitudes, under identical laboratory conditions. The hatchlings grew at the same rate when experiencing the same environmental conditions irrespective of their origin. This finding suggests that the observed differences in growth rate between these two populations of L. vivipara are driven by environmental factors (e.g. thermal environment) rather than genetic divergence. Although we did not find any genetic difference between populations, we found some evidence of within-population variation in growth rate. 3. In a second experiment, we raised hatchlings from the high altitude population in outdoor enclosures located at low and high altitudes. The site where hatchlings were raised had a large impact on both growth and survival. Lizards located in the low altitude site grew faster and had a higher mortality rate than lizards located in the high altitude site. These findings are consistent with the observed differences in growth and survival between the natural populations inhabiting the two localities. 4. In spite of the low statistical power of the models used to detect the family X environment interactions, we found a marginally significant interaction for survival (P = 0.054), which suggests that phenotypic plasticity of this trait may have some degree of genetic variance. 5. Finally, we did not find any evidence for a genetic correlation between growth and survival in the high altitude population. This suggests that the observed phenotypic trade-off between the two traits may arise from environmental constraints (e.g. more active lizards have higher growth rates but also have higher risks of predation). 6. Overall, our findings emphasize that environmental factors may play a major role in shaping patterns of life-history association in L. vivipara, and in explaining geographic variation of life histories.
Sorci, G. & Clobert, J. & Michalakis, Y. (1996) -
Parasites may play a complex role in shaping patterns of host reproductive effort and therefore in determining costs of reproduction in their hosts. Parasites may cause a more or less large reduction in the amount of energy an individual host may use for reproduction and maintenance. Irrespective of the parasite-induced reduction in energy intake, infected hosts may either show the same allocation pattern than uninfected hosts, or respond to parasitism by changing the proportion of energy allocated to each trait (e.g. increased investment in current reproduction at the expense of survival). Moreover, hosts may differ in their susceptibility to parasites (e.g. hosts with high reproductive effort may show higher vulnerability to parasite infection). Each of these hypotheses leads to a pattern of correlation between parasite load, host survival and reproduction. In this paper we compared the predicted patterns of correlation between parasite load, host survival and reproduction with those observed for the Lacerta vivipara - haematozoa association. We found that: (1) haematozoa load was positively correlated with lizard reproductive effort; (2) haema- tozoa load was not correlated with host survival; (3) lizards with high reproductive investment suffered higher mortality rate than lizards with low reproductive invest- ment. These findings suggest that parasites do not significantly reduce host energy intake, and are in agreement with a shift of the allocation rule of parasitized hosts toward reproduction. However, our correlative study does not allow us to attribute this shift to an adaptive host response to parasites rather than a by-product of a differential susceptibility to parasite infection
Sorci, G. & Fraipont, M. de & Clobert, J. (1997) -
Increased transmission of parasites and diseases is generally considered as a major cost of social life. In this study we tested the hypothesis regarding ectoparasites as a cost of living in crowded habitats in the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara). We used two approaches to explore this question. First, we tested if ectoparasite load and prevalence are positively correlated with host density in the field. Second, we experimentally tested if lizards avoid parasitized conspecifics. Contrary to expectation, we found that (1) ectoparasite load is negatively correlated with lizard density; (2) prevalence does not significantly increase with density; (3) unparasitized lizards do not avoid parasitized conspecifics but are attracted by them whatever their parasite load. These findings suggest that ectoparasites cannot be considered as a cost of living at high density in the common lizard, in spite of the potential negative impact mites may have on lizard fitness.
Sorci, G. & Massot, M. & Clobert, J. (1994) -
Sorci, G. & Swallow, J. & Garland, T. & Clobert, J. (1995) -
We used quantitative genetic analyses to test the hypothesis of a trade-of between locomotor speed and endurance in a population of the European lizard Lacerta vivipara, which is the subject of long-term demographic studies. We estimated the heritability of maximal sprint speed, treadmill endurance, and tail length, a morphometric trait that may afect locomotor performance, as well asphenotypic, genetic, and environmental correlations between these traits. Gravid females were captured in the field and held in the laboratory under standardized conditions until giving birth; traits were then measured on their ofspring. Prior to genetic analyses, we used multiple regressions to remove the efects of such covariates as body size (mass and snout-vent length), dam age, and length of time dams were held in captivity prior toparturition. When we examined the residual characters, heritability was low and statistically nonsignficant for speed but relatively high for both endurance (0.46) and tail length (0.51). None of the phenotypic, genetic, or environmental correlations between traits was statistically significant. Thus, we found no evidence for a trade-off between speed and endurance; these results are consistent with those reported in two previous studies of squamate reptiles (the garter snake Thamnophis sirtalis and the fence lizard Sceloporus occidentalis). The lack of a negative genetic correlation between speed and endurance suggests that these aspects of locomotor abilities are relatively free to evolve independently, such that natural selection could increase both speed and endurance. However, the species studied to date have low to moderate capacities for speed and endurance, as compared with other squamates. Physiologically based trade-offs-for example, those caused by the composition ofmuscle fiber types-should be more likely to exist in species that have high capacities for speed and/or endurance.
Sordelli, F. (1886) -
Sordello, R. (2012) -
Sorg, U.M. (2017) -
Sorlin, M.V. & Gangloff, E.J. & Kouyoumdjian, L. & Cordero, G.A. & Darnet, E. & Aubret, F. (2019) -
Sos, T. (2007) -
In the northern area of Braşov County, the herpetofauna appears to be characteristic for a hilly and low-mountain zone and includes the following species: Salamandra salamandra, Triturus cristatus, Lissotriton vulgaris, Bombina variegata, Pelobates fuscus, Bufo bufo, Pseudepidalea viridis, Hyla arborea, Pelophylax ridibundus, Pelophylax kl. esculentus, Rana dalmatina, Rana temporaria, Rana arvalis, Emys orbicularis, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Podarcis muralis, Anguis fragilis colchicus, Coronella austriaca and Natrix natrix. The presence of other three species (Zootoca vivipara, Zamenis longissimus and Vipera berus) in this area is also listed in the scientific literature. The status of amphibians and reptiles in the vicinity of human localities is vulnerable and uncertain, being threatened by intensive agricultural and mining activity, overgrazing, deforestation, waste deposition and aggressive human behavior. The further existence of several small populations of R. arvalis, P. muralis and L. viridis is unstable. Undisturbed habitats still exist near the Olt River and in central part of the Northern Perşani Mountains. The next steps concerning active protection of herpetofauna would be delimitation and protection of habitats, excavation of new breeding sites for amphibian populations and starting herpetological education in this area.
Sos, T. (2008) -
The list of recent taxonomic and nomenclatural changes concerning Romanian amphibian and reptile species is presented in the light of new phylogenetic results. The status and distribution of some subspecies which inhabit Romania is discussed. The goals of contemporary conservation are revised. Also a list of used Romanian material in recent phylogeny studies is provided.
Sos, T. & Kecskés, A. & Hegyeli, Z. & Marosi, B. (2012) -
The distribution of the meadow lizard, Darevskia pontica, in Romania is still inadequately documented. In the light of new distribution data reported here and gleaned from the literature, the species is more widely distributed in the country. The distribution seems to be continuous in southern Romania, even if fragmented and associated with extant woodland patches. The present distribution pattern could be the result of extensive deforestation process in the area, which isolated this forest lizard to remnant patches, as already indicated in the literature.
Soto, E. (2010) -
Soto, I. & Cuthbert, R.N. & Kouba, A. et al. (2022) -
Biological invasions by amphibian and reptile species (i.e. herpetofauna) are numerous and widespread, having caused severe impacts on ecosystems, the economy and human health. However, there remains no synthesised assessment of the economic costs of these invasions. Therefore, using the most comprehensive database on the economic costs of invasive alien species worldwide (InvaCost), we analyse the costs caused by invasive alien herpetofauna according to taxonomic, geographic, sectoral and temporal dimensions, as well as the types of these costs. The cost of invasive herpetofauna totaled at 17.0 billion US$ between 1986 and 2020, divided split into 6.3 billion US$ for amphibians, 10.4 billion US$ for reptiles and 334 million US$ for mixed classes. However, these costs were associated predominantly with only two species (brown tree snake Boiga irregularis and American bullfrog Lithobates catesbeianus), with 10.3 and 6.0 billion US$ in costs, respectively. Costs for the remaining 19 reported species were relatively minor (< 0.6 billion US$), and they were entirely unavailable for over 94% of known invasive herpetofauna worldwide. Also, costs were positively correlated with research effort, suggesting research biases towards well-known taxa. So far, costs have been dominated by predictions and extrapolations (79%), and thus empirical observations for impact were relatively scarce. The activity sector most affected by amphibians was authoritiesstakeholders through management (> 99%), while for reptiles, impacts were reported mostly through damages to mixed sectors (65%). Geographically, Oceania and Pacific Islands recorded 63% of total costs, followed by Europe (35%) and North America (2%). Cost reports have generally increased over time but peaked between 2011 and 2015 for amphibians and 2006 to 2010 for reptiles. A greater effort in studying the costs of invasive herpetofauna is necessary for a more complete understanding of invasion impacts of these species. We emphasise the need for greater control and prevention policies concerning the spread of current and future invasive herpetofauna.
Souad, L. & Ghenima, S. (2019) -
This study focuses on the spring diet and biometric variability in Podarcis vaucheriduring May and July in the Tazaregion in 2019.We present the first data on the diet of this species in Taza National Park. The analysis of 28 stomach contents allowed us to identify 161 prey, divided into 15 food categories, one of which includes unidentified taxa. During the study period, Podarcis vaucherishowed a generalist diet based on arthropods. The five most ingested prey are: Hymenoptera, Larvae, Spiders, Ants and Beetles. The comparison of the morphology of the two sexes shows a significant difference of a few biometric characters that are in favour of males. This morphological heterogeneity reveals an apparent sexual dimorphism in Podarcis vaucheriof the Oued Taza gorges
Soualah-Alila, H. & Bouslama, Z. & Amr, Z. & Hani, R.B. (2015) -
Parasitism of Ixodes ricinus on three species of lizards (Psammodromus algirus, Podarcis vaucheri and Timon pater) in northeastern Algeria was studied. Psammodromus algirus was the most preferred host, T. pater was least preferred. Nymphs of I. ricinus were found attached to lizards from March to August in various numbers. Most nymphs were collected during March, April and June for P. algirus, and most larvae from April until August. Larval stages were found to be mostly associated with P. vaucheri during the study period, with the highest number of recovered larvae in June.
Sound, P. (1994) -
Sound, P. (1997) -
Sound, P. (1999) -
A male Western Green Lizard {Lacerta bilineata DAUDIN, 1802) was observed when catching and swallowing a juvenile (20 cm) Smooth Snake {Coronella austriaca LAURENTI, 1768). The whole procedure took more than 30 minutes. This is the first record of L. bilineata preying on C. austriaca. In syntopy, both species are mutual predators on young individals of the other species. Due to the rich prey spectrum composed of Wall Lizards, and Sand Lizards, Slow Worms, and crickets in the observation area (vineyards near the city of Boppard, Middle Rhine valley, Germany), this record should be seen as an exceptional event.
Sound, P. (2002) -
Sound, P. (2005) -
Sound, P. (2017) -
In this study the distribution of Lacerta bilineata in dependence on the potential insolation was analyzed in a model area in the slopes of the Bopparder Hamm in the middle Rhine valley. The results indicate that the species is connected significantly to areas of high insolation in spring and autumn. Between May and July no connection is observable. Thus, the result indicate a differentiated importance of the area. The differentiation of the area in core and summer habitat is being discussed.
Sound, P. & Schausten, H. (1997) -
Sound, P. & Veith, M. (2000) -
Daily activity patterns of male western green lizards, Lacerta bilineata (Daudin, 1802), at the edge of their northern distribution range in western Germany after the breeding season from June to October were recorded using implanted radio transmitters. Different activity indices discriminating between stimulation, duration, and length of movement were correlated with actual weather conditions (d0) and with weather conditions on the 2 previous days (d-1 and d-2). The lizards` dependence on weather showed two different phases throughout the study period. During the first period and in the period preceding a drastic change of weather in midsummer, weather had no significant influence on movement parameters. After that event, temperatures dropped and a strong dependence on weather of all movement parameters except those indicating displacements became apparent. Thresholds for 50% activity during this second phase were a maximum temperature of 17°C and a minimum humidity of 35%. Two days after periods of bad weather, the influence of weather conditions increased again. This can be explained by physiological deficits that require compensation during the period of marginal weather conditions prior to hibernation. Displacement movements were significantly longer than home-range movements and were neither triggered nor modulated by the weather. They must therefore represent activities such as patrolling territory boundaries.
Sound, Peter & Seitz, Alfred & Veith, Michael (2002) -
Sound, Peter & Veith, Michael (2002) -
Souri, A.M. & Rastegar-Pouyani, N. (2018) -
In the wild, animals living at different altitude environment face different stressors, accordingly generating clines for several traits and biochemical changes with altitude. The current study was conducted to examine various morphological traits and biochemical biomarkers in field population of Ophisops elegans at three different altitudes. Biomarkers included antioxidant enzymatic activity of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) in bran, liver and tail tissue samples. Results show that lizards from highlands are larger than those from lowland. Lipid peroxidation in lowland lizards was significantly increased in all three brain, liver and tail tissues. Total antioxidant capacity in the liver and glutathione peroxidase activity in tail were much higher in lowland than those in highland. However, the activity of superoxide dismutase was similar among three elevations. We observed significant negative correlation between snout-vent length and lipid peroxidation in the brain and tail. Total antioxidant capacity in liver and glutathione peroxidase in tail also recorded a negative correlation with snout-vent length. By contrast, total antioxidant capacity in liver was positively correlated with lipid peroxidation. These results clearly suggest that oxidative stress and antioxidant defenses in Ophisops elegans varies in response to elevation.
Sousa, R. de & Lopes de Carvalho, I. .& Santos, A.S. & Bernardes, C. & Milhano, N. & Jesus, J. & Menezes, D. & Núncio, M.S. (2012) -
PCR screening of ticks and tissue samples collected from 151 Teira dugesii lizards seems to indicate a potential role of this lizard species in the maintenance and transmission cycle of some Ixodes ricinus tick-borne agents, such as Rickettsia monacensis, Rickettsia helvetica, and Borrelia lusitaniae, that are circulating on Madeira Island.
Southoff, M.G. de (1914) -
Sow, A.S. & Gonçalves, D.V. & Sousa, F.V. & Martínez-Freiría, F. & Santarém, F. & Velo-Antón, G. & Dieng, H. & Campos, J.C. & Diagne, S.K. & Brito, J.C. (2017) -
This study provides the first atlas of the distribution of amphibians and reptiles in the Diawling National Park (DNP), Mauritania. Unpublished fieldwork observations collected between 2010 and 2017 were combined with published records and museum data in a geographical information system to produce maps with the distribution of individual species and species richness. The taxo-nomic list includes 32 species, six amphibians and 26 reptiles, grouped in 17 families. Ten species are new records for the area. Species form distinct groups according to their distribution patterns and preliminary habitat selection trends: 1) species distributed in inland dunes, some extending their range to coastal dunes; 2) species distributed in inland dunes and floodplains; and 3) species associated with habitats that are permanently or seasonally flooded or that inhabit riparian forests. Three areas accumulating most of the species found are located in sand habitats of DNP and pe-ripheral zones. Specific counts of Crocodylus suchus suggest strong seasonal fluctuations in popu-lation size inside DNP, which are likely a consequence of the human-mediated dynamics of water availability in the area.
Sow, A.S. & Martínez-Freiría, F. & Crochet, P.-A. & Geniez, P. & Ineich, I. & Dieng, H. & Fahd, S. & Brito, J.C. (2014) -
This study provides the first atlas of the distribution of reptiles in the Parc National du Banc d’Arguin, Mauritania. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Nature Reserve. Unpublished fieldwork observations collected between 2008 and 2011 were combined with published records and museum data in a Geographical Information System to produce maps with the distribution of individual species and species richness. The taxonomic list of repti- les includes 21 species grouped in eight families. Three species (Stenodactylus mauritanicus, Mesalina pasteuri and Psammophis sibilans) were detected for the first time in the area. Reptiles form distinct groups according to their dis- tribution patterns and preliminary habitat selection trends: 1) species selecting bare areas present throughout the park; 2) species selecting rocky habitats present mostly in the northern areas; and 3) species selecting sandy habitats present mostly in the southern areas. A total of eight areas were identified as of high species richness (N > 8 species), usually presenting species typical of rocky or dune habitats and also species present in open bare areas.
Spadola, F. & Insacco, G. (2009) -
The author describes a very rare case of dicephalism in a Podarcis sicula found in Ragusa (Italy). This is the first account in the world of a malformation of this sort in Podarcis spp.
Spadola, F. & Toro, F. (2007) -
The authors describe a case of complete albinism in a Podarcis muralis newborn, from Chieti (Abruzzo, central Italy) in September 2004. This ist he first complete albinism case in a Podarcis spp. In the world.
Spaneli, V. & Valakos, E.D. & Pafilis, P. & Lymberakis, P. (2008) -
Thermal conditions change dramatically with altitude. Ectothermic animals suffer largely form these alterations to their thermal environments and undergo various adaptations. Thus some lizards show lower body temperatures at high elevations while others adopt behavioural adjustments to compensate for the cooler environment and the climate’s seasonal extremes in these regions. Podarcis cretensis is a recently redescribed species of the genus, endemic to the island of Crete, where it may be found from sea level to 2000m, and satellite islands. The aim of this study was to compare the thermoregulatory strategy of three populations of P. cretensis along an altitudinal gradient (0, 500 and 1000 m). Study sites, all in western Crete, were covered with phrygana and visited during summer 2007. Body temperatures were estimated by taking cloacal temparature from lizards that were captured in the field. In order to assess operative temperatures we used copper models simulating the thermophysical capacities of this species. The set-point range (Tset) was determined in a laboratory thermogradient. Using the values of the aforementioned parameters we estimated the comparative thermoregulatory indexes (db, de, E, variance of Tb). Our results suggest that in all populations lizards are active thermoregulators. The efficiency (E) of thermoregulation ranged from 0.81 to 0.93, with lowland population having the lowest value. Moreover, both accuracy and precision of thermoregulation increased with the altitude.
Ectotherms thermoregulate mainly by behavioural means. Though they are capable of behaviourally regulating their body temperatures, their natural environments eventually limit the extent of thermoregulatory accuracy. Thermoregulation is also influenced by the presence of competitors and predators as well as by the availability and location of food and retreat sites. In some cases a single species may exhibit different thermoregulatory behaviours in different habitats. Moreover, it is well known that both the thermal environment and the thermoregulatory behaviour of lizards show seasonal variation. Podarcis cretensis is a recently redescribed species of the genus, endemic to the island of Crete and satellite islands where in may be found from sea level to 2000m. The aim of this study was to compare the thermoregulatory strategy of 3 populations of Podarcis cretensis occupying different habitat types, during two seasons: spring and summer 2007. All study sites are in Western Crete, sea level. Ballos is a sandy site in the north coasts of Crete with very low ground coverage by small bushes (phrygana). Elaphonisi is in the south, the ground is a combination of sand and soil and has a high percentage covered by rocks and small bushes. Finally, Lissos gorge is in the south and it is soily with steep edges and high ground coverage by rocks, tall bushes (maquis) and trees. We collected data on the main thermoregulatory parameters (Tb, Te) at the study sites and determined the set-point range (Tset) in a laboratory thermogradient. Thermoregulatory indexes (db, de, E, variance of Tb) were estimated. The efficiency (E) of thermoregulation ranged from 0.47 to 0.83, during spring and from 0.59 to 0.86 during summer, with the population occupying the open (low coverage) phryganic habitat having the lowest value in both seasons (partially thermoconformer during spring). The same population seems to be the less accurate thermoregulator in both seasons, showing that the risk of predation along with the lack of thermal variation within a habitat may be limiting factors to a lizard’s thermoregulation. The effectiveness, the accuracy and the precision of thermoregulation increased during summer in all populations.
Spaneli, V. & Verissimo, C. & Koutsoupakis, S. & Pafilis, P. & Simou, C. & Valakos, E. & Lymberakis, P. (2007) -
P. cretensis is a recently redescribed species of the genus, endemic to the island of Crete and satellite islands. Its distribution on the island is very particular: On Crete it is found only on the ¼ western part of the island and not on the major satellite islands whereas in eastern Crete it is present only on satellite islands. The scope of this work was to study ecological parameters of 6 populations from western Crete, under the light of the recent phylogenetic findings. The 6 populations belong to 3 of the formerly described subspecies. They are distributed in various biotopes: from sandy to rocky, from the north and south part of the island and from sea level to 1000m a.s.l. The ecological parameters we studied are: thermoregulatory strategy (selected, body and operative temperatures), presence of ecto- and endoparasites, population density and aspects of predation pressure. Results are compared to the phylogenetic relationships of the populations as inferred from Cytochrome b sequences.
Spangenberg, V. & Arakelyan, M. & Bello Cioffi, M. de & Liehr, T. & Al-Rikabi, A. & Martynova, E. & Danielyan, F. & Stepanyan, I. & Galoyan, E. & Kolomiets, O. (2020) -
Darevskia rock lizards is a unique complex taxa, including more than thirty species, seven of which are parthenogenetic. in mixed populations of Darevskia lizards, tri- and tetraploid forms can be found. the most important issues in the theory of reticulate evolution of Darevskia lizards are the origin of parthenogenetic species and their taxonomic position. However, there is little data on how meiosis proceeds in these species. The present work reports the complex results of cytogenetics in a diploid parthenogenetic species – D. unisexualis. Here we detail the meiotic prophase I progression and the specific features оf mitotic chromosomes organization. The stages of meiosis prophase I were investigated by immunocytochemical analysis of preparations obtained from isolated primary oocytes of D. unisexualis in comparison with maternal species D. raddei nairensis. It has been shown that in D. unisexualis at the leptotene-zygotene stages the axial elements and the synaptonemal complex (SC) form typical “bouquets”. At the pachytene-diplotene stage, 18 autosomal SC-bivalents and thickened asynapted sex Z and w univalents were observed. The presence of SYCP1 protein between the lateral elements of autosomal chromosomes proved the formation of assembled Scs. comparative genomic hybridization (cGH) on the mitotic metaphase chromosomes of D. unisexualis was carried out using the genomic DnA isolated from the parental species D. raddei nairensis and D. valentini. in the pericentromeric regions of half of the mitotic chromosomes of D. unisexualis, specific regions inherited from maternal species have been found. Following our results, we suggest a model for diploid germ cells formation from diploid oocytes without premeiotic duplication of chromosomes in the oogenesis of diploid parthenogenetic lizards D. unisexualis. Taken as a whole, our findings confirm the hybrid nature of D. unisexualis and shed light on heterozygosity and automixis in diploid parthenogenetic forms.
Spangenberg, V. & Arakelyan, M. & Galoyan, E. & Martirosyan, I. & Bogomazova, A. & Martynova, E. & Bello Cioffi, M. de & Liehr, T. & Al-Rikabi, A. & Osipov, F. & Petrosyan, V. & Kolomiets, O. (2021) -
Parthenogenetic species of Caucasian rock lizards of the genus Darevksia are important evidence for reticulate evolution and speciation by hybridization in vertebrates. Female‐only lineages formed through interspecific hybridization have been discovered in many groups. Nevertheless, critical mechanisms of oogenesis and specifics of meiosis that provide long‐term stability of parthenogenetic species are still unknown. Here we report cytogenetic characteristics of somatic karyotypes and meiotic prophase I nuclei in the diploid parthenogenetic species Darevskia unisexualis from the new population “Keti” in Armenia which contains an odd number of chromosomes 2n = 37, instead of the usual 2n = 38. We revealed 36 acrocentric chromosomes and a single metacentric autosomal chromosome, resulting from Robertsonian translocation. Comparative genomic hybridization revealed that chromosome fusion occurred between two chromosomes inherited from the maternal species, similar to another parthenogenetic species D. rostombekowi. To trace the chromosome behaviour in meiosis, we performed an immunocytochemical study of primary oocytes` spread nuclei and studied chromosome synapsis during meiotic prophase I in D. unisexualis based on analysis of synaptonemal complexes (SCs). We found meiotic SC‐trivalent composed of one metacentric and two acrocentric chromosomes. We confirmed that the SC was assembled between homeologous chromosomes inherited from two parental species. Immunostaining of the pachytene and diplotene nuclei revealed a mismatch repair protein MLH1 loaded to all autosomal SC bivalents. Possible mechanisms of meiotic recombination between homeologous chromosomes are discussed.
Spangenberg, V. & Arakelyan, M. & Galoyan, E. & Matveevsky, S. & Petrosyan, R. & Bogdanov, Y. & Danielyan, F. & Kolomiets, O. (2017) -
Knowing whether triploid hybrids resulting from natural hybridization of parthenogenetic and bisexual species are fertile is crucial for understanding the mechanisms of reticulate evolution in rock lizards. Here, using males of the bisexual diploid rock lizard species Darevskia raddei nairensis and Darevskia valentini and a triploid hybrid male Darevskia unisexualis × Darevskia valentini, we performed karyotyping and comparative immunocytochemistry of chromosome synapsis and investigated the distribution of RAD51 and MLH1 foci in spread spermatocyte nuclei in meiotic prophase I. Three chromosome sets were found to occur in cell nuclei in the D. unisexualis × D. valentini hybrid, two originating from a parthenogenetic D. unisexualis female and one from the D. valentini male. Despite this distorted chromosome synapsis and incomplete double-strand breaks repair in meiotic prophase I, the number of mismatch repair foci in the triploid hybrid was enough to pass through both meiotic divisions. The defects in synapsis and repair did not arrest meiosis or spermatogenesis. Numerous abnormal mature spermatids were observed in the testes of the studied hybrid.
Spangenberg, V. & Arakelyan, M. & Galoyan, E. & Pankin, M. & Petrosyan, R. & Stepanyan, I. & Grishaeva, T. & Danielyan, F. & Kolomiets, O. (2018) -
According to the synthesis of 30 years of multidisciplinary studies parthenogenetic species of rock lizards of genus Darevskia were formed as a result of different combination patterns of interspecific hybridization of the four bisexual parental species: D. raddei, D. mixta, D. valentini, and D. portschinskii. In particular D. portschinskii and D. raddei are considered as the parental species for the parthenogenetic species D. rostombekowi. Here for the first time we present the result of comparative immunocytochemical study of primary spermatocyte nuclei spreads from the leptotene to diplotene stages of meiotic prophase I in two species: D. portschinskii and D. raddei. We observed similar chromosome lengths for both synaptonemal complex (SC) karyotypes as well as similar number of crossing over sites. However, unexpected differences in the number and distribution of anti-centromere antibody (ACA) foci were detected in the SC structure of bivalents of the two species. In all examined D. portschinskii spermatocyte nuclei, one immunostained centromere focus was detected per SC bivalent. In contrast, in almost every studied D. raddei nuclei we identified three – nine SCs with additional immunostained ACA foci per SC bivalent. Thus, the obtained results allow us to identify species-specific karyotype features, previously not been detected using conventional mitotic chromosome analysis. Presumably the additional centromere foci are result of epigenetic chromatin modifications. We assume that this characteristic of the D. raddei karyotype could represent useful marker for the future studies of parthenogenetic species hybrid karyotypes related to D. raddei.
Spangenberg, V. & Kolomiets, O. & Stepanyan, I. & Galoyan, E. & Bello Cioffi, M. de & Martynova, E. & Martirosyan, I. & Grishaeva, T. & Danielyan, F. & Al-Rikabi, A. & Liehr, T. & Arakelyan, M. (2020) -
Darevskia rostombekowi, the most outstanding of the seven known parthenogenetic species in the genus Darevskia, is the result of an ancestral cross between two bisexual species Darevskia raddei and Darevskia portschinskii. The chromosomal set of this species includes a unique submetacentric autosomal chromosome; the origin of this chromosome was unresolved as only acrocentric chromosomes are described in the karyotypes of Darevskia genus normally. Here, we applied a suite of molecular cytogenetic techniques, including the mapping of telomeric (TTAGGG) n repeats using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), and whole-chromosome painting (WCP) in both D. rostombekowi and parental (D. portschinskii and D. raddei) species. The obtained results in total suggest that a de novo chromosomal rearrangement via Robertsonian translocation (centric fusion) between two maternal (D. raddei) acrocentric chromosomes of different size was involved in the formation of this unique submetacentric chromosome present in the parthenogenetic species D. rostombekowi. Our findings provide new data in specific and rapid evolutional processes of a unisexual reptile species karyotype.
Spangenberg, V.E & Arakelyan, M.S. & Galoyan, E.A. & Danielyan, F.D. & Kolomiets, O.L. (2018) -
Spangenberg, V.E. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Galoyan, E.A. & Matveevsky, S.N. & Petrosyan, R.K. & Danielyan, F.D. & Kolomiets, O.L. (2016) -
Spanoghe, B. (2015) -
Personal experiences concerning the husbandry and breeding of the Ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus lepidus). The author keeps and breeds several big green lizard species. But his favourite one is Europe’s biggest, the Ocellated lizard, also called Eyed lizard and in Dutch Pearl lizard (Timon epidus lepidus). He describes the species briefly and explains how he keeps them in captivity, having vetry good results with hygienic artificial grass on the bottom of the terrarium. Feeding, including vitamin UV-B, is explained in detail. Reproduction, including hibernation, mating, laying an incubation of eggs is discussed. Attention is given to the two main health-problems i.e. parasitic blood-mites and injuries. Finally he recommends this beautiful and attractove lizard, for both the room terrarium as well as the garden/outdoor terrarium, to any serious, motivated hobbyist.
Spanoghe, B. (2019) -
Spanoghe, B. (2021) -
Spanoghe, B. (2024) -
The article informs about the occurrence of bark ulcers / skin tumours in lacertids, which are fatal for the affected animals during the course of the disease. Against this background, the author calls for information or photos of affected animals. The aim is to analyze the disease in detail on a broader information basis and ideally a therapy can be developed.
Sparreboom, M. & Arntzen, J.W. (1975) -
During the second half of June 1974 population of amphibians were observed in the Seewinkel, east of the Neusiedler See in Burgenland, Austria. Habitats are described.
Spawls, D. & Howell, K. & Drewes, R. & Ashe, J. (2002) -
Spawls, S. & Howell, K. & Drewes, R.C. & Ashe, J. (2002) -
Spawls, S. & Malonza, P. & Wagner, P. & Branch, W.R. (2014) -
Spawls, S. & Rotich, D. (1997) -
This checklist records the 99 species of lizards known at present from Kenya, and which are divided amongst eight families: Gekkonidae 33 species, Agamidae seven, Chamaeleonidae 17, Scincidae 22, Lacertidae 12, Cordylidae five, Varanidae two, Amphisbaenidae one. Brief data on the distribution of all species is given, with some localities, details of habitat and (in some cases) status of subspecies. Some taxonomic notes on certain problematic species/genera are included, plus a brief discussion of the zoogeography of Kenya`s lizards, and a gazetteer of localities.
Spears, S. & Pettit, C. & Gangloff, E. (2020) -
Ectothermic organisms depend entirely on the surrounding environment in order to maintain thermal balance. If the environment has low thermal quality, or if they are not in range of their thermal optimum, they must adjust their behavior to compensate. To uncover the mechanisms and driving forces behind lizard thermoregulation, we must first understand how environmental temperatures affect lizards, and how they accordingly respond. In this project, we address questions about the role of humidity and moisture levels in lizard thermoregulation and the impact of the surrounding environment on lizard activity levels. Further, we investigate how regional heterothermy (maintaining different temperatures in different regions of the body) fluctuates in a changing environment. To answer these questions, we will conduct research on the lizard species Podarcis muralis, the Common Wall Lizard. This species is an active diurnal thermoregulator native to Europe, but found in abundance here in southern Ohio. This makes it an ideal organism to conduct experiments studying how ectotherms compensate for environmental changes that impact thermoregulation. We will conduct field transects of natural populations and use 3D printed model lizards to measure operative temperatures in the field. The environment (temperature, humidity, light levels, etc.) and subject (body and cloacal temperature, activity levels, etc.) will be quantified to test hypotheses that will give us insight on understanding how ectothermic organisms respond and adapt to shifts in the environment. As climate change impacts the Earth, many organisms, especially ectotherms, will need to adjust their thermal interactions with the surrounding environment.
Speer, E. O. (1994) -
On EI Hierro, Canary Isiands, the endemic Iizard Gallotia galloti caesaris was observed visiting the flowers of the likewise endemic Euphorbia broussonetii in search of nectar. For such piants visited and quite likely pollinated by Iizards, the collective term Saurophilae is proposed. Poiyphilous and monophilous biossoms are distinguished .
Spellerberg, I.F. (1988) -
Spellerberg, I.F. (1989) -
Britain has a species-poor reptile fauna of six species. Although they occur in association with various types of plant communities, most species seem to be associated with heathlands. The lizard Lacerta agilis is particularly associated with heathlands but data presented here suggests that the vegetation structure of typical, undisturbed, lowland heathlands is less suitable for this species than disturbed heathland with more structural diversity.
Spellerberg, I.F. & House, S.M. (1980) -
Spellerberg, I.F. & House, S.M. (1982) -
During August 1976, 30 sand lizards (L. agilis ) were removed from a heathland National Nature Reserve. A few days before this most of the Reserve had been destroyed by a fire and about 800 lizards were killed. A specially designed vivarium was later constructed on an unburnt part of the Reserve and lizards were released in the vivarium during 1978. The objective was to return the lizards to the Reserve, using a controlled method, and assist the natural recolonization process. Three years later (in 1981) the vivarium had a small breeding population of sand lizards.
Spencer, W.B. (1886) -
Sperone, E. & Bonacci, A. & Tripepi, S. (2004) -
Speybroeck, J. (2004) -
Speybroeck, J. (2005) -
Speybroeck, J. (2006) -
Speybroeck, J. (2007) -
Speybroeck, J. (2008) -
Speybroeck, J. (2009) -
Speybroeck, J. (2010) -
Speybroeck, J. (2012) -
Speybroeck, J. (2014) -
Speybroeck, J. & Beukema, W. & Crochet, P.-A. (2010) -
Research on the taxonomy of European amphibians and reptiles has increased noticeably over the last few decades, indicating the need for recognition of new species and the cancellation of others. This paper provides a critical review of recent changes and draws up a tentative species list.
Speybroeck, J. & Beukema, W. & Dufresnes, C. & Fritz, U. & Jablonski, D. & Lymberakis, P. & Martinez-Solano, I. & Razzettis, E. & Vamberger, M. & Vences, M. & Vörös, J. & Crochet, P.-A. (2020) -
The last species list of the European herpetofauna was published by Speybroeck, Beukema and Crochet (2010). In the meantime, ongoing research led to numerous taxonomic changes, including the discovery of new species-level lineages as well as reclassifications at genus level, requiring significant changes to this list. As of 2019, a new Taxonomic Committee was established as an official entity within the European Herpetological Society, Societas Europaea Herpetologica (SEH). Twelve members from nine European countries reviewed, discussed and voted on recent taxonomic research on a case-by-case basis. Accepted changes led to critical compilation of a new species list, which is hereby presented and discussed. According to our list, 301 species (95 amphibians, 15 chelonians, including six species of sea turtles, and 191 squamates) occur within our expanded geographical definition of Europe. The list includes 14 non-native species (three amphibians, one chelonian, and ten squamates).
Speybroeck, J. & Bohle, D. & Razzetti, E. & Dimaki, M. & Kirchner, M.K. & Beukema, W. (2014) -
A collection of 1580 recent data records (1993-2012) of amphibians and reptiles from the Greek island of Samos was compiled. All records were mapped onto a grid of 1 km by 1 km, with 261 of the total 648 cells (40 %) of the island holding at least one observation. Subsequently, the distribution patterns and ecological observa- tions were compared with data from other islands in the Aegean Basin. The discovery of the Coin-marked Snake Hemorrhois nummifer (reuSS, 1834), published herein after, constitutes a new island record, setting the herpeto- fauna list to 28 confirmed species (4 amphibians, 24 reptiles).
Speybroeck, J. & Crochet, P.-A. (2007) -
The naming of species and of all systematic entities of living things are dynamic con- cepts. Through scientific research, changes in the systematics and names of amphibi- ans and reptiles are constantly being pro- posed, much to the chagrin of many profes- sional and amateur herpetologists. Yet most changes are necessary if taxonomy and systematics are to reflect evolutionary his- tory and phylogeny, rather than letting user–friendliness and conservatism prevail. The European herpetofauna and its taxo- nomy have received increasing attention through molecular (e.g. DNA) studies. Once most animal groups have been studied in this way, stability may be established. In the following pages, a concise overview of changes in the taxonomy of European amphibians and reptiles is presented. We have restricted ourselves to the geographi- cal boundaries of Europe, albeit excluding former Soviet states. Thus, politically Euro- pean areas in Asia (e.g. Cyprus and Greek islands in front of the Aegean Turkish coast) and Africa (e.g. Canary Islands and Ma- deira) have not been included. For a time frame we have used the species and names as presented in the well–known European field guide by ARNOLD (2002), although numerous changes were proposed and published prior to 2002. We refer to the cited literature for more comprehensive explanations. Only species or higher level changes concerning European taxa are listed. Subspecific changes and intraspeci- fic variability are noted only when contra- dicting long–established monotypy of a species, or when subspecies are being rejected. Vernacular names are mostly adopted from ARNOLD (2002). Some exo- genous species that are well–established and are reproducing on European soil, are included and are listed separately. Species believed to have been introduced to Europe over 100 years ago and persisting until today, have been included in the list of endogenous species. Many other non– native species have, however, been en- countered in the wild in Europe. Final content changes were made on De- cember 1, 2007. This type of update and the proposed species list will most likely be outdated at its date of publication. Further updating by means of a consecutive series of similar papers seems desirable.
Speybroek, J. (2010) -
Spikmans, F. (2015) -
Spikmans, F. & Bosman, W. (2007) -
Spikmans, F. & Bosman, W. (2008) -
Spikmans, F. & Bosman, W. (2009) -
Spikmans, F. & Bosman, W. (2010) -
Spikmans, F. & Bosman, W. (2011) -
Spikmans, F. & Bosman, W. (2013) -
Maastricht herbergt ’s lands enige natuurlijke populatie muurhagedissen. Kernpopulaties van de soort zijn aanwezig in de Hoge en Lage Fronten (vestingwerken) en op een spoorlijn en emplacement. Tevens zijn de hazelworm en levendbarende hagedis in het Belvédèregebied (Maastricht Noord) aanwezig. In het gebied staan diverse stedelijke en infrastructurele ontwikkelingen op stapel, welke in veel gevallen zullen leiden tot vernietiging, versnippering en/of verstoring van reptielenleefgebied. De aanwezige reptielsoorten en hun leefgebieden zijn streng beschermd en aantasting van de populaties is zonder ontheffing op de Flora en faunawet niet toegestaan. In overleg met het ministerie van EL&I, de initiatiefnemers van de plannen en RAVON is besloten te zoeken naar een integrale oplossing voor de diverse projecten. Het doel dat hierbij is gesteld, is de instandhouding van duurzame en robuuste metapopulaties van de aanwezige reptielen. Door het creëren van een „robuust raamwerk” wordt de bescherming van de reptielen in Maastricht Noord geborgd, waarbij ook de genoemde ruimtelijke ontwikkelingen doorgang kunnen vinden. In het voorliggende rapport wordt de actuele verspreiding van reptielen in het gebied, de huidige kwaliteit van de leefgebieden en de mogelijke maatregelen voor realisering van duurzame metapopulaties reptielen beschreven. Uit het veldonderzoek naar reptielen blijkt dat de muurhagedis voorkomt in de Hoge Fronten, Lage Fronten, emplacement Boschpoort, spoorlijn Maastricht – Lanaken, Maasoever en het bedrijventerrein Bosscherveld. Aanvullende waarnemingen op de bekende verspreiding zijn gedaan op diverse bedrijventerreinen in het Bosscherveld. Door de beperkte populatieomvang (<500 adulte dieren) en de versnippering van leefgebieden wordt de staat van instandhouding van de populatie muurhagedissen niet duurzaam geacht. De hazelworm komt in grote delen van het Belvédèregebied in hoge dichtheid voor en de populatie wordt in de huidige staat duurzaam geacht. De levendbarende hagedis is uitsluitend aanwezig op een klein stuk van de spoorlijn aan de Belgische grens. De populatie is klein, kwetsbaar en niet in een duurzame staat. Voor de drie reptielsoorten wordt het raamwerk beschreven voor robuuste metapopulaties. Een duurzame metapopulatie bestaat uit minimaal 500 adulte dieren, verspreid over meerdere kernpopulaties in primaire leefgebieden die met elkaar in contact staan door (satellietpopulaties in) verbindingszones. Voor de realisering van een robuuste metapopulatie van de muurhagedis is de ontwikkeling van nieuw leefgebied noodzakelijk (Fort Willem, uitbreiding Frontenpark en Belvédèreberg). Diverse verbindingszones dienen nog gerealiseerd te worden door aanpassing van inrichting en beheer en de aanleg van passages. Per leefgebied en verbindingszone worden in het voorliggende rapport de noodzakelijke maatregelen beschreven en wordt een prioritering aangebracht hierin. Door realisering van de voorgesteld maatregelen kan de populatie muurhagedis groeien tot 500 – 900 adulte exemplaren. Nieuw leefgebied voor met name de muurhagedis kan gerealiseerd worden door het aanbrengen van stenige en houtige structuren (stapelmuren, steenkorven, steenhopen, steenbedden en houtstapels). Hergebruik van materialen uit het gebied (zoals sloopafval) voor de bouw van deze voorzieningen is goed mogelijk Reptielvriendelijk vegetatiebeheer is van cruciaal belang om leefgebieden geschikt te houden. De wijze waarop wegen passeerbaar gemaakt kunnen worden voor reptielen, middels robuuste voorzieningen, wordt beschreven. De wijze waarop de deelprojecten in het gebied uitgevoerd worden dient vastgelegd te worden in een uitvoeringsplan, met aandacht voor werkwijze, materiaalkeuze, tijdstip van uitvoering en een goed afstemming in tijd van deelprojecten. Ook is ecologische begeleiding van de werkzaamheden van groot belang. De bestaande plannen in het gebied, zoals de vestingvisie, bestemmingsplan Noorderbrug en de voorbereidingsbesluiten Bosscherveld Noord en RMP Noord, bieden naast bedreigingen zeker ook kansen voor de aanwezige reptielen. Met name de vestingvisie heeft een hoge ecologische ambitie. Binnen de stedelijke ontwikkelingsplannen zijn er voldoende mogelijkheden om verlies en verstoring van leefgebied te compenseren. De realisering van robuuste metapopulaties biedt voor met name de muurhagedis goed uitzicht op duurzaam voortbestaan. Een netwerk van met elkaar verbonden deelpopulaties functioneert echter alleen wanneer alle onderdelen gerealiseerd worden.
Spikmans, F. & Bosman, W. (2014) -
Spikmans, F. & Bosman, W. (2015) -
In den Niederlanden ist die Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) eine seltene und streng geschützte Art. Die Stadt Maastricht beherbergt das einzige natürliche niederländische Vorkommen, welches historische Stadtmauern sowie unterschiedliche urbane Lebensräume wie verlassene Gleisanlagen besiedelt. Im Zuge einer Revitalisierung einer Bahnstrecke mussten Naturschutzmaßnahmen ergriffen werden, um den Erhaltungszustand der Population nicht zu verschlechtern. Der geplante Eingriff umfasste eine Ausbesserung des Gleisbettes, eine Restaurierung von Brücken und eine Beseitigung von Vegetation in den Jahren 2007-2008, wie auch die zukünftige Nutzung der Strecke durch Güterzüge. All diese Aktivitäten führten zu einer Zerstörung sowie zu starken Beeinträchtigungen des Reptilien-Lebensraums. Zur Eingriffskompensation wurden neue Lebensräume und reptilien-freundliche Pflegemaßnahmen entwickelt. Die Schaffung neuen Lebensraums umfasste die Schichtung von Mauern und Totholzanhäufungen. Insgesamt wurden 25 Schichtmauern auf einer Länge von 1100 Meter und daneben 37 Totholzanhäufungen alle 50 Meter errichtet. Die Maßnahmen wurden von einem Monitoring der Populationsgröße, des Reproduktionserfolges und der Verteilung der Mauereidechsen-Population begleitet. Die Baumaßnahmen und die Umsiedlung hatten einen großen negativen Einfluss auf die Populationsgröße des Vorkommens in den ersten Jahren nach der Umsiedlung. Nichtsdestotrotz zeigt die Population einen großen Zuwachs und eine erfolgreiche jährliche Reproduktion im neuen Lebensraum. Der durchschnittliche jährliche Individuenzuwachs im Zeitraum 2008-2011 beträgt 60 %. Die Erfahrungen in diesem Projekt zeigen, dass neue Lebensräume wenigstens fünf Jahre vor der Zerstörung des angestammten Lebensraums geschaffen werden sollten. Da die Bahnstrecke bisher nicht genutzt wird, ist über den Einfluss des Güterverkehrs kein e Aussage möglich.
In the Netherlands, the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) is a rare and protected species. The city of Maastricht harbours the only natural Dutch population, where it lives on historic city walls and a diversity of urban habitats, such as an abandoned railroad. Measures had to be taken to safeguard the population on the abandoned railway when plans were presented for revitalising the railway. Plans included renewal of the gravel bed and sleep- ers, restoration of bridges and the removal of vegetation in the years 2007-2008, as well and the usage of the track by freight trains in the future. These activities lead to the destruction and severe disturbance of reptile habitat. To compensate for this, new habitat was created and reptile friendly management of the vegetation is introduced. New habitat was created by building piled walls and wood piles. Twenty-five piled walls were built with a total length of 1100 meter and 37 wood piles were put alongside the track every 50 meter. Common Wall Lizard population size, re- production success and dispersion were monitored. Reconstruction and translocation proved to have a great impact on the population size in the first year after translocation. However, the population shows both a significant, strong increase since then and annual successful reproduction in the new habitat. The average annual growth of the popu- lation over the period 2008-2011 is 60%. Based on the experiences in this project it is advised to develop new habitat five years prior to the destruction of the original habitat. As the railway is not in use yet, the impact of passing trains on the population is unknown.
Spikmans, F. & Bosman, W. (2016) -
The Wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) reaches the northernmost part of its distribution range in the Netherlands. The only native population is located in the city of Maastricht. In the 1980s the species was on the verge of extinction, which was prevented by designing and implementing conservation measures. At present several urban development projects are posing a new threat to the Wall lizard population. At the same time, however, these projects also offer opportunities to create new habitats and corridors. This article describes the population size trends for the five known subpopulations. Data on the distribution, population size and reproductive success are available for the 1977–2014 period. The total population size has increased steadily between 1994 and 2014 and comprises 601 to 887 individuals, including adults, sub-adults and juveniles. This growth resulted in the colonisation of new habitats around the original relict populations from 2002 onwards. Since 1997, reproductive success has been evident for one of the main subpopulations (Hoge Fronten), with more juveniles than adults being recorded. The reproductive success of the other main subpopulation (Lage Fronten), however, appears to have been impeded. Unlike the Hoge Fronten subpopulation, the Lage Fronten subpopulation exhibited a sex ratio that deviated from 1:1. Furthermore, the data showed a high survival rate of both juveniles and sub-adults in the Hoge Fronten population, whereas at the Lage Fronten a proportion of the sub-adults have disappeared from the monitoring radar, possibly due to a higher mortality rate. Current status and projections indicate that the Wall lizard population is not sustainable, and conservation measures are needed to ensure population sustainability and to guarantee its long-term survival. Several urban development projects have been planned for the near future, within and around the Wall lizard habitats. The species is protected under national law and any loss or degradation of habitat has to be compensated for. An integrated management plan, involving several other protected species, has been drawn up. This plan aims to construct a network of populations, connected by corridors, which will form a viable metapopulation. For the Wall lizard this means improved habitat quality within the present populations, as well as the creation of wholly new habitats and the construction of reptile-friendly passages underneath roads. Finally, the vegetation management will be carried out in a reptilefriendly fashion. With the above-mentioned measures in place, it is believed population sustainability can be achieved for the Wall lizard in the future.
Spikmans, F. & Ouborg, J. (2015) -
De muurhagedis (Podarcis muralis) is Nederlands meest zeldzame reptielsoort, met slechts één autochtone populatie in Maastricht. Hier leeft de soort aan de uiterste noordelijk grens van zijn areaal, geïsoleerd van populaties in de regio. Om de soort duurzaam te behouden zijn ontsnipperingsmaatregelen gepland. De belangrijkste daarvan is de realisering van een verbinding tussen de Hoge en Lage Fronten. Om later vast te kunnen stellen of deze verbinding daadwerkelijk bijdraagt aan een betere uitwisseling van individuen tussen deze twee leefgebieden, is in dit onderzoek een nulsituatie vastgelegd. Er is hierbij gekeken naar de genetische structuur en vitaliteit van de beide populaties, met behulp van acht microsatellietenmarkers. Deze genetische vitaliteit wordt vergeleken met gegevens van enkele Duitse populaties. Op basis van de genetische structuur kan worden vastgesteld of er individuen uitwisselen tussen de populaties in Hoge en Lage Fronten. De resultaten laten zien dat er nauwelijks uitwisseling plaatsvindt. Slechts één van de 75 onderzochte muurhagedissen is waarschijnlijk vanuit de hoge Fronten naar de Lage Fronten gemigreerd Er is echter geen sprake van een sterke genetische differentiatie tussen de beide populaties (P-distance = 0,053). De tussenliggende Cabergerweg kan gezien worden als een belangrijke barrière tussen de populaties. In beide populaties zijn aanwijzingen voor het optreden van inteelt. In vergelijking met Duitse populaties is de inteeltcoëfficiënt hoog. Ook de genetische differentiatie is ten opzichte van de Duitse populaties hoger dan de onderlinge genetische differentiatie. De effectieve populatiegrootte van de populaties in de Hoge Fronten en Lage Fronten is lager dan bij de Duitse populaties. De aanwezigheid van exotische muurhagedissen vormt een bedreiging voor de populatie inheemse muurhagedissen. De risico’s bestaan met name uit hybridisatie en verdringing van inheemse muurhagedissen. De Maastrichtse populatie beschikt waarschijnlijk over adaptaties aan het voorkomen aan de noordelijke grens van het areaal van de soort. Deze unieke kenmerken kunnen door hybridisatie verloren gaan. Om dit risico beter in beeld te brengen is onderzocht wat de herkomst is van geïntroduceerde muurhagedissen, welke introductieroutes er zijn en of er in Maastricht autochtone muurhagedissen aanwezig zijn. Bij het fylogenetische onderzoek is het haplotype van individuen bepaald door te kijken naar de sequenties van het cytochroom b gen. Deze worden onderling vergeleken en tevens met een uitgebreide Europese databank van sequenties uit het hele verspreidingsgebeid van de muurhagedis. Er bestaan momenteel 14 zichzelf instandhoudende geïntroduceerde muurhagedispopulaties in Nederland. In de tien onderzochte populaties zijn muurhagedissen uit zes verschillende clades aanwezig. In meer dan de helft van de gevallen zijn er haplotypes uit meerdere clades aanwezig, wat duidt op meervoudige introducties. Muurhagedissen uit de Oost Franse clade, waartoe ook de populatie in Maastricht behoort, zijn het vaakst aangetroffen. In Maastricht is een aantal muurhagedissen aanwezig met een afwijkende genetische structuur, wat duidt op de aanwezigheid van exotische muurhagedissen. Analyse van het mitochondriaal DNA laat zien dat er drie individuen in de Hoge Fronten aanwezig zijn met een West Frans haplotype en in de Lage Fronten een muurhagedis met een Toscaans haplotype. Analyse van nucleair DNA (microsatellieten) laat echter geen verschil zien tussen deze individuen en de rest van de populatie. Geconcludeerd wordt dat de introductie en aanwezigheid van exotische muurhagedissen een reële bedreiging vormen voor de populatie in Maastricht, maar dat er op dit moment geen is. Het aantal locaties met geïntroduceerde muurhagedissen is sinds 1999 sterk gestegen. Opzettelijke uitzetting en toevallige uitzetting door handelsactiviteiten zijn de belangrijkste wijzen waarop deze introducties nu plaatsvinden. De resultaten van het onderzoek onderstrepen het belang van het nemen van maatregelen. De maatregelen dienen in Maastricht gericht te zijn op de verbinding en vergroting van leefgebieden. Hiermee kan voorkomen worden dat de genetische erosie zich doorzet. Maatregelen om het risico van exotische muurhagedissen te beperken kunnen bestaan uit het voeren van een uitsterfbeleid bij de bestaande populaties, beperking van het risico op nieuwe uitzettingen door handelsactiviteiten, monitoring van exotische muurhagedissen (earlywarning) en voorlichting van het publiek over de risico’s van de introductie van exotische muurhagedissen.
Spilani, L. & Bougiouri, K. & Antoniou, A. & Lymberakis, P. & Psonis, N. & Poulakakis, N. (2016) -
In recent years, there have been numerous studies focusing on the systematics of the wall lizards of the genus Podarcis, uncovering several cases of cryptic diversity, such as the cases of the Cretan (southern Aegean) and Pori (islet between Crete and Peloponnisos) wall-lizards that were recently recognized as distinct species (P. cretensis and P. levendis, respectively). In this study, nucleotide sequences from five genes (two mitochondrial – 16S rRNA & cytb and three nuclear – MC1R, pod15b & pod55) were used to infer intra- and inter- phylogenetic relationships of P. cretensis, P. levendis, and P. peloponnesiacus through Bayesian Inference and Maximum Likelihood approaches using P. erhardii as outgroup. Moreover, the boundaries of the putative species were evaluated by employing several species delimitation methods, aiming to ‘determine’ the exact number of species and their phylogenetic status. The phylogenetic analyses revealed that all the examined species are monophyletic. Among them P. levendis, although without statistical support, appear to be more closely related to P. peloponnesiacus. The Cretan species is further subdivided into three major groups of lineages with distinct geographic distributions whereas P. peloponnesiacus into two. The above results combined with the analyses of species delimitation stress the need for a taxonomic reconsideration of the studied taxa both at the species and subspecies level.
Spilani, L. & Bougiouri, K. & Antoniou, A. & Psonis, N. & Poursanidis, D. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2020) -
Spilani, L. & Bougiouri, K. & Antoniou, A. Psonis, N. & Poursanidis, D. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2019) -
The evolutionary history of taxa with limited overseas dispersal abilities is considered to be majorly infl;uenced by vicariant events constituting them as model organisms for the interpretation of evolutionary processes. An excellent candidate are the wall lizards of the genus Podarcis exhibiting an impressive level of genetic and morphological diversification and harboring several cases of recently discovered cryptic diversity. In this study, we investigated the effect of palaeogeographic events on the wall lizards’ biodiversity patterns in the Aegean (Greece) as well as the evolutionary processes that acted both in space and time. To accomplish that we studied a group of three endemic Podarcis species (i.e., P. cretensis, P. levendis, and P. peloponnesiacus) both at the intra and interspecific levels employing mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequence data as well as microsatellites. Furthermore, presence information coupled with bioclimatic data (i.e., species distribution modeling, and niche similarity analyses) shed light on the necessary ecological factors for the species’ occurrence. These approaches revealed yet another case of cryptic diversity for this group of lizards, with the existence of two slightly overlapping lineages within P. peloponnesiacus and highly structured populations within P. cretensis. Species diversification occurred during the Pliocene with P. peloponnesiacus divergence into the two lineages dating back to 1.86 Mya. Furthermore, temperature and precipitation related environmental parameters were the most important ones regarding the current distribution of the studied species. Based on the results, we propose a more detailed phylogeographic scenario where both the paleogeography of the area and several environmental parameters have shaped the genetic diversity and the current distribution pattern of this species group.
Spilani, L. & Strachinis, I. & Lampropoulos, A. & Tsigar, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Pafilis, P. (2018) -
In this study we aimed to clarify the identity of a wall lizard population that deviates phenotypically from the other Podarcis lizards that occur in the broader area (Athens, Greece). To this end we used molecular techniques.Most surprisingly, we identified the focal population as Podarcis vaucheri, a species far away from its natural range. Molecular results suggest an Iberian origin of this population. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of P. vaucheri outside its original range. The new population should be attributed to human-mediated introduction. The future interaction of this introduced species with native lizards, many of which are endemic to Greece, is of critical importance.
Spillner, W. (1955) -
Spitz, F. (1971) -
In a tidal marsh along the Vendee coast, a programme of rodent trapping enabled the study of a Lizard community compri sing two species : Lacerta viridis and L. agilis. Individuals were weighed, marked and released. The two species were active from April to August. They shared, without apparent competition, a common hunting area ; this seems referable to a slight difference in activity hours and preferential activity zones. A narrow barrier beach, always above sea-level, is used as a wintering area and, at least by L. viridis, for night resting places during summer. There is a tendency among recaptured individuals to use a res tricted (20-30 m diameter) activity range. Some individuals of the two species have been recaptured in two successive summers.
Spitzen - van der Sluijs, A.M. & Willink, G.W., Creemers, R. & Ottburg, F.G.W.A. & Boer, R.J. de & Pfaff, P.M.L. & Wild, W.W. de & Stronks, D.J. & Schroder, R.J.H. & Vos, M.T. de & Soes, D.M. & Struijk, R.P.J.H. (2007) -
Spitzen, A. & Delft, J. van & Vogels, J. (2018) -
Sportelli, L. (1969) -
Sprünken, M. & Rutschke, J. (1992) -
Spurrell, H.G.F. (1900) -
Spychala, J. & Marszalek, J. (1986) -
Sreelatha, L.B. & Boratynski, Z. & Carretero, M.A. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Klomp, D.A. & Gomes, V. & Andrade, P. & Oskyrko, O. (2021) -
Sreelatha, L.B. & Carretero, M.A. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Klomp, D.A. & Boratynski, Z. (2021) -
Colour morphs sometimes have different behavioural strategies which may be maintained by frequency or density dependence mechanisms. We investigated temporal changes in behavioural reaction to a novel environment among colour morphs (yellow, orange, white) of the European wall lizard (Podarcis muralis). Adult males were given two 15 min experimental trials, and their locomotion was highly consistent between the two trials. Boldness, freezing and escape behaviour were less repeatable. Colour morphs differed in their locomotion and freezing behaviour. Boldness was similar among the morphs, whereas escape behaviour was lowest in yellow morph. Consequently, yellow morph males tended to explore novel environments quickly and thus were more likely to move to potentially safe areas. Orange and white males showed more fear when exposed to a novel environment. Whether such alternative behavioural strategies can contribute to the maintenance of variable fitness optima among the morphs and ultimately to the maintenance of polymorphism remains open to further investigation.
Sreelathe, L.B. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Oskyrko, O. & Gomes, V. & Andrade, P. & Boratynski, Z. & Carretero, M.A. (2023) -
Color polymorphisms are common across reptile species and are frequently correlated with variation in behavior and other functional traits. Here, we tested whether the ventral color morphs (yellow, orange and white pure morphs, as well as yellow-orange and white-orange mosaic morphs) of Common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) exhibit differential temporal changes in their reaction to exposure to a novel environment. We conducted 15 min long trials of a novel environment test (open field test) in a set of populations from the eastern Pyrenees. Locomotion, boldness and freezing behavior changed over time, in agreement with a previous study carried out in central Pyrenees, but without highlighting a clear behavioral difference among color morphs. Only yellow-orange lizards showed a distinct correlation pattern between locomotion and body size compared to the other morphs. Carefully standardized studies involving more populations are needed to unravel the complex interactions between morphological and behavioral traits among lizard color morphs.
Srien, A. van & Zuiderwijk, A. & Daemen, B. Janssen, I. & Straver, M. (2007) -
Declining Adder and Viviparous lizard popula- tions due to fragmentation and water draw-down Heathland is the most important reptile habitat intheNetherlandsassixoutofsevennative species can be found there. The once vast heathlands have vanished during the 20th cen- tury.Nowadaysmainlyfragmentedanddegene- rated patches of heathland remain. This study focuses on the Viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipa- ra) and the Adder (Vipera berus), both typical species of Dutch (moist) heathland that are affected by the negative impact of fragmentati- on. The effect of fragmentation, water draw- down and other factors on their populations have been quantified through a causal-analytical study with data from the Dutch Reptile Monito- ring Network. Species numbers were found to decline when the effective habitat area is smal- ler than 250 ha (Adder) or 100 ha (Viviparous lizard). Also the water draw-down of the habitat is adversely affecting both species, whereas the trend of the Viviparous lizard also was negatively influenced by encroachment of trees. The study shows clearly how results from a monitoring network can be used in causal- analytical studies.
Srikulnath, K. & Matsubara, K. & Uno, Y. & Nishida, C. & Olsson, M. & Matsuda, Y. (2014) -
The sand lizard (Lacerta agilis, Lacertidae) has a chromosome number of 2n = 38, with 17 pairs of acrocentric chromosomes, one pair of microchromosomes, a large acrocentric Z chromosome, and a micro-W chromosome. To investigate the process of karyotype evolution in L. agilis, we performed chromosome banding and fluorescent in situ hybridization for gene mapping and constructed a cytogenetic map with 86 functional genes. Chromosome banding revealed that the Z chromosome is the fifth largest chromosome. The cytogenetic map revealed homology of the L. agilis Z chromosome with chicken chromosomes 6 and 9. Comparison of the L. agilis cytogenetic map with those of four Toxicofera species with many microchromosomes (Elaphe quadrivirgata, Varanus salvator macromaculatus, Leiolepis reevesii rubritaeniata, and Anolis carolinensis) showed highly conserved linkage homology of L. agilis chromosomes (LAG) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5(Z), 7, 8, 9, and 10 with macrochromosomes and/or macrochromosome segments of the four Toxicofera species. Most of the genes located on the microchromosomes of Toxicofera were localized to LAG6, small acrocentric chromosomes (LAG11–18), and a microchromosome (LAG19) in L. agilis. These results suggest that the L. agilis karyotype resulted from frequent fusions of microchromosomes, which occurred in the ancestral karyotype of Toxicofera and led to the disappearance of microchromosomes and the appearance of many small macrochromosomes.
Srinivasulu, C. & Das, I. (2008) -
We present an inventory of the herpetofauna of the Nallamala Hills, Eastern Ghats, south-eastern India. The fauna, as currently known, includes 20 species of amphibians belonging to 14 genera in six families and 64 species of reptiles belonging to 42 genera in 15 families. Divided in habitat types, the herpetofauna can be classified into species tolerant of disturbed habitats; exclusively scrub species (and for reptiles, from rocky biotopes); scrub and bordering agricultural fields; and exclusively mesic forest species. For one species, lack of ecological information precludes its allocation to a specific habitat category. Significant diversity of squamates (including gekkonids, scincids, and colubrids) are known from these ranges, several of which endemic or largely restricted to scrub forests of Peninsular India. Mesic forests remain poorly explored, and support hitherto undescribed species among the herpetofauna. Adaptations seen amongst the herpetofauna of the Nallamala Hills include a diversity of dietary and habitat types, including, among amphibians, ant specialists; predators of small vertebrates; folivores; fossorial; terrestrial; aquatic or aquatic-margin; and arboreal forms. Amongst reptiles, adaptive types includes ant- and worm-eaters; predator of crop pests; predator of small or medium-sized vertebrate prey; egg-predators; fish-eaters; frog- and toadeaters; and one near-exclusive snake-eater. In terms of habitat usage, reptiles exceed amphibians in species richness, on account of their greater capacity of surviving in relatively arid regions. The Eastern Ghats contributes significantly to both species richness and endemicity of the Indian region, including representatives of endemic genera and species. Nonetheless, these hills continue to receive less attention for conservation compared to the relatively better-known Western Ghats.
Stadler, M. & Philipp, H. (2008) -
In den Jahren 2005 bis 2007 fanden im Becken von Feneos (Peloponnes, Griechenland) umfangreiche Untersuchungen zur Avifauna und Herpetofauna statt. Bei der erstmaligen Erfassung der Vogelwelt im Bergtal konnten 98 Vogelarten nachgewiesen werden, davon 81 Brutvögel, 14 Durchzügler und drei Nahrungsgäste. Für die Herpetofauna gelang der Nachweis von sieben Amphibien- und 26 Reptilienarten.
Stadler, S.R. (2021) -
Biologists have noted since the days of Darwin and Wallace how islandpopulations of vertebrates differ in body size from their mainland relatives. While much progress has been made in understanding global patterns in body size evolution across different species of wildlife (Benítez-López et al., 2021) scientists still don’t have a goodunderstanding of the ecological and environmental processes that generate these patterns. While many studies concerning vertebrate body size evolution have been performed, a hypothesis-driven approach that concerns life history differences in females and males is lacking, and it is not even known whether any putative factors influence female and male body size in the same way. We examined 36 populations of Aegean wall lizards (Podarcis erhardii, Lacertidae), a species widely distributed across the Balkan mainland and hundreds of Aegean islands. The species is unusual in that it not only occurs in a broad range of ecological conditions, but also that it varies substantially in body size (Males: 37%; Females: 33.9%) and that it occurs in numerous, clearly isolated and well-characterized island populations. It therefore constitutes an excellent model for determining the drivers of island body size across varying island environments. Here we evaluate multiple hypotheses ranging from predation pressure (predator species richness), resource availability (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), seabird density, island area), and competition for mates (lizard density) as possible factors affecting lizard body size. We found that the factors affecting both female and male lizard body size depend on the presence of nesting seabird colonies on an island. Female body size on seabird islands was most strongly associated with seabird colony density, while male body size on seabird islands was only associated with conspecific lizard population density, suggesting a role for seabird subsidies and increased food resources for the evolution of female body size and intraspecific competition in the evolution of male body size. On non-seabird islands, female body size was positively correlated with island size, while male body size was not significantly associated with any of the factors we measured. This suggests that different factors were associated with female and male body size evolution in island populations of P. erhardii, and we propose that a general pattern like the island rule is subject not only to selective forces that are sex-specific, but also that there will important differences dictated by island ecology.
Stadler, S.R. & Brock, K.M. & Bednekoff, P.A. & Foufopoulos, J. (2022) -
While global patterns in body size evolution in island vertebrates have been described extensively, the ecological processes that generate these patterns are not well understood. Here we used variation among lizard populations occupying an archipelago to test hypotheses about body size evolution. We examined 35 populations of Aegean wall lizards (Podarcis erhardii, Lacertidae), a species widely distributed across the Balkan mainland and hundreds of Aegean islands. We evaluated measures of resource availability (island area and seabird density), intraspecific competition (lizard abundance) and predation risk (presence of rats, carnivorous mammals, vipers, and birds of prey) as possible factors affecting lizard body size. Lizard body size increased with island size overall, as well as with seabird colony density, suggesting a role for increased food resources and especially seabird subsidies in the evolution of body size. Lizards were larger where lizard population density was higher, suggesting a possible role for intraspecific competition in the evolution of body size. In our sample, rats, carnivorous mammals, and vipers did not have obvious effects on lizard body size, and lizards were smaller on islands with resident birds of prey. Males were larger than females on average, yet sexual dimorphism did not vary consistently with measures of resource availability and competition. Overall, our results suggest that local resource levels predict population density and body size in these lizards, and that nesting seabirds in particular can substantially affect lizard body size.
Stahmeyer, T.W. (2019) -
The feeding of a sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) captured by a buzzard (Buteo buteo) to its chicks is described and documented by a photo.
Stakmakova, V.A. & Rzhepakovsky, V.T. (1981) -
Stambuk, A. & Sabolic, I. & Bakaric, R. & Mira, Ó. & Lisicic, D. & Brandt, D.Y.C. & Baltazar-Soares, M. & Dennis, S. & Novosolov, M. & Allentoft, M. & Stapley, J. & Nielsen, R. & Herrel, A. (2018) -
Understanding the microevolutionary processes underlying rapid adaptive evolution and the way selection shapes phenotypic divergence in natural populations remains one of the major goals of evolutionary biology. In a transplant experiment in 1971, five pairs of Italian wall lizards Podarcis siculus from the islet of Pod Kopište were introduced on the nearby islet Pod Mrčaru (Adriatic Sea). Follow up study on these populations has revealed that in only 35 years distinctive changes in ecology and morphology have occurred in the transplanted population, probably linked to dietary change towards omnivory. However, the relative the role of genetic changes vs. Plasticity in this rapid phenotypic evolution remains unknown. To address this question, we will combine estimates of heritability from crossing experiments with genotype-environment-phenotype associations using two experimental and 18 native populations of P. siculus and P. melisellensis. Here, we present the results on genomic differentiation among these 20 populations inhabiting islands along environmental gradient in the region. We genotyped 374 individuals using a genotype-by-sequencing approach. Population genomic analyses allows us to estimate genomewide and loci-specific genomic divergence among populations distributed along the ecological gradient and to quantify the amount of variation in genotype that is explained by geographic and environmental variables.
Stamenkovic, S. (1992) -
Stamenkovic, S.Z. (2013) -
Stamenković, S.Ž. & Matić, R. (2013) -
The correlation between trophic utilization and morphology was studied for two lizard species (Podarcis melisellensis and P. siculus) from two mainland localities in the eastern Adriatic area; this is the first report of trophic and morphometric data for P. melisellensis from mainland populations. Variance partitioning showed that most of the variation in morphological traits for the analyzed lizards was the result of differences between species, and to a lesser extent between sexes. Locality did not have a strong effect on the variation of morphological traits. Prey weight is the only characteristic of prey that generally exhibits correlations with morphological characteristics rather than prey size. The pattern of correlations is generally weaker for P. melisellensis than for P. siculus. Optimal foraging theory predictions were generally confirmed: P. siculus is more constrained by trophic resource availability, with a premium on larger and heavier prey consumed in the less productive locality (SM), which can be relaxed in more productive regions (KL). P. melisellensis shows such constraints only for males in the less productive region (SM). Females of both species consume heavier prey.
Stankevitch, S. (2016) -
Beginning from the year of 2000, cutaneous papillomatous lesions have been noticed in Lacerta agilis grusinica, which inhabits the Georgian Black Sea coastal region. Affected lizards rapidly die in captivity, most likely, from the consequences of an emerging disease associated with cutaneous papillomatous lesions. Similar lesions have been previously reported for green lizards, Lacerta viridis. According to recent publications, electron microscopy has revealed presence of the reoviral and papovaviral particles in the papillomatous lesions of green lizards (Cooper et al., 1982; Ugurtas et al., 2008). In the other study reptile Herpesvirus was diagnosed in green lizards affected by papilloma using PCR (Literak et al., 2010). Both, Reovirus and Herpesvirus can be associated with clinical symptoms in lizards, while papillomaviruses (Papovaviridae family) cause tissue-restricted benign tumors (Marschang, 2011). Lethal infections as well as skin lesions in Lacerta spp. could be caused by viruses from the family Iridoviridae (de Matos et al., 2011). In our study we intended to find out the causes of the disease in the sand lizards affected by papilloma from Anaklia, Georgian Black Sea Coast, using histology and diagnostic PCR tests. Histological images revealed benign nature of the papillomatous lesions and absence of metastasis in the internal organs. However, brain edema, inflammation and necrosis were detected in the liver of one of the affected by papilloma lizards. Also similar inflammation and necrosis were detected in the liver and kidney of a lizard from the same population, which was not affected by papilloma. Infiltration of the affected organs by lymphocytes signified the presence of a viral infection in the lizards. We suggest that due to the same type of the histological picture in the affected organs, both lizards, with and without papilloma, suffered from the same viral infection. We were not able to obtain positive controls for the PCR tests on Reovirus, Herpesvirus and Papillomavirus, and cannot rely on our results associated with these viruses. However, we obtained the PCR products in the tests on Invertebrate Iridoviruses and Ranavirus. For the final diagnosis the sequencing of the PCR products should be performed.
Stark, G. & Tamar, K. & Itescu, Y. & Meiri, S. (2018) -
Starkov, V.G. & Orlova, V.F. (2007) -
For the first time at Azov seashore of Taman’ peninsula (settlement Golubitskaya and west of Peresyp’ village) there were found populations of meadow lizard Darevskia praticola pontica (Lantz et Cyren, 1919). The lizards live in the lower parts of a high shore slope with a phryganoid vegetation. The density of their population can reach 1 individual per square meter (1 individual per 1 m2), and in the places of their concentration — 5 and more individuals per 1 m2. In second place, in the upper parts of the shore slope near village Peresyp’ the glass lizard, Pseudopus apodus (Pallas, 1775) was also found. New records of these species are separated for 30 km to the east and 70 km to the south correspondingly from previously known localities. The runner, Elaphe sauromates Pallas, 1814, which has not been found earlier in the Eastern Azov area, is not rare in the Akhtanizov estuary region.
Stasiak, A.K. (2022) -
The viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara) is a species of the Squamata order from the family of lizards (Lacertidae) covering the wide range – from Western Europe, including British islands and Ireland to the far reaches of Asia with limit of occurrence on the Japanese island of Hokkaido. The population of the viviparous lizard is not regularly monitored and does not have specific monitoring rules. Currently, numerous publications in the press and media inform about the progressive intensification of agriculture, intensity of tourist traffic or the increasingly progressive urbanization of the environment, which contributes to the migration of viviparous lizards from these areas. It has been suggested that because of human interference with the environment, viviparous lizards retreat to intact natural habitats. This is related to decrease in the area of occurrence of these reptiles and less frequent observations than before. The work presents a proposed methodology of viviparous lizard monitoring based on the evaluation of population status indicator – relative abundance and habitat condition indicators such as availability of breeding places and availability of hiding places. The aim of the article is to present indicators of the population status and habitat condition indicators, additionally to establish terms and frequency of surveys within the framework of the possibility to conduct monitoring studies of viviparous lizard populations.
Stavrou, M. & Savvides, P. & Pafilis, P. & Sfenthourakis, S. (2016) -
Tail shedding is a costly, yet very common anti-predatory strategy used by many lizard species. The loss of the tail has energetic costs and can affect the social status and locomotor performance of individuals. However, autotomy is an effective strategy against predators and the ease of autotomy, together with post-autotomic tail movement, can reflect different strategies at the inter- and intra- specific level. In our study we used Acanthodactylus schreiberi, a fast moving lizard with tail coloration that varies among age and sex groups, to investigate such differences. We found that male individuals were significantly less willing to shed their tail than females and juveniles, but post- autotomic tail movement differed significantly only between females and juveniles, with the latter exhibiting the highest overall movement duration. Our findings suggest that different strategies are taken by intra-specific groups and that tail autotomy is physiologically more efficient in juveniles, probably reflecting a different cost / benefit ratio among age groups. The brightly red colored tail, coupled with a more risky behavior of juveniles, supports an increased dependence on tail autotomy, partially explaining their more efficient tail autotomy.
Stawikowski, R. & Virgo, J. (2024) -
Stawikowski, R. & Virgo, J. (2025) -
Stawiński, T. (2015) -
Podarcis is a genus of lacertid lizards. It contains over twenty species and represents one of the largest radiations of reptiles in Europe. Podarcis lizards show high molecular diversity but are relatively similar morphologically. Here, I describe cranial osteology of P. muralis, P. siculus, P. hispanicus*, P. melisellensis, P. erhardii, P. peloponnesiacus and P. cretensis. P. erhardii and P. cretensis – until recently regarded as conspecific and considered very similar morphologically – differ in several cranial characters. The studied population of P. cretensis, coming from Elafonisos island, shows some apparently heterochronic traits, such as tripartite occipital condyle, low ascending process of the supraoccipital, open parietal fossa and less well pronounced sexual dimorphism. Heterochrony could also play role in the evolution of P. hispanicus*. This is supported by the absence of median crest of the parietal. Morphometric analyses confirm sexual dimorphism in Podarcis lizards – males have relatively longer and higher skull which results in a higher bite force. This allows them to eat harder prey, enhances their chances in combats and helps maintain a secure grip during copulation.
Podarcis to rodzaj jaszczurek z grupy Lacertidae. Obejmuje ponad dwadzieścia gatunków i jest przykładem jednej z największych radiacji gadów na kontynencie europejskim. Jaszczurki Podarcis są silnie zróżnicowane molekularnie, jednak stosunkowo jednorodne morfologicznie. W tej pracy opisuję osteologię czaszki gatunków P. muralis, P. siculus, P. hispanicus*, P. melisellensis, P. erhardii, P. peloponnesiacus i P. cretensis. Gatunki P. erhardii i P. cretensis, do niedawna klasyfikowane w obrębie jednego gatunku i uznawane za bardzo słabo zróżnicowane morfologicznie, różnią się kilkoma cechami czaszki. Badana populacja P.cretensis, pochodząca z wyspy Elafonisos u wybrzeża Krety, wykazuje pewne cechy heterochroniczne, takie jak trójdzielna budowa kłykcia potylicznego, niski wyrostek wstępujący kości nadpotylicznej, otwarty dół ciemieniowy czy słabiej zaznaczony dymorfizm płciowy. Heterochronia mogła odegrać rolę również w ewolucji P. hispanicus*, na co wskazuje m.in. brak grzebienia pośrodkowego na brzusznej stronie kości ciemieniowej. Analizy morfometryczne potwierdzają występowanie dymorfizmu płciowego u tych jaszczurek – samce cechują się stosunkowo dłuższą i wyższą czaszką niż samice, dzięki czemu mogą zaciskać szczęki z większą siłą. Pozwala im to zjadać twardszy pokarm, zwiększa szanse w walkach z innymi osobnikami i zapewnia pewniejszy uchwyt samicy podczas kopulacji.
Steen, R. & Løw, L.M. & Sonerud, G.A. (2011) -
Recent development in video monitoring has allowed collecting of data on prey deliveries at raptor nests, and this offers an opportunity to relate prey selection to short-term changes in environmental factors on a scale of hours. Whereas raptors may specialize on ectothermic prey at southern latitudes, only some generalist raptors may include such prey in their diet at northern latitudes. In particular, at northern latitudes the activity pattern of ectothermic reptiles is strongly dependent on the prevailing weather conditions. To test whether this dependence affects the exposure of reptiles to raptors, we used video recording of prey deliveries at nests of the Eurasian Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus L., 1758) at 618N in Norway, where the Common Lizard (Zootoca (Lacerta) vivipara (Jacquin, 1787)) is the only lizard available to kestrels. The probability that a prey item delivered at a kestrel nest was a lizard increased towards midday and also increased independently with increasing ambient temperature, which on average, was 20.2 8C when lizards were delivered compared with 15.7 8C when other types of prey were delivered. Thus, the delivery of lizards by kestrels in our study may be regarded as a functional response, where the abundance of lizards is determined by solar height and ambient temperature.
Stehle (1932) -
Stehle (1957) -
Steindachner, F. (1891) -
Steindachner, F. (1869) -
Steindachner, F. (1870) -
Steindachner, F. (1882) -
Steindachner, F. (1889) -
Steindachner, F. (1892) -
Steindachner, F. (1901) -
Steindachner, F. (1903) -
Steindachner, F. (1905) -
Steinecke, W. (1978) -
Steinicke, H. (2000) -
Steinicke, H. (2001) -
Steinicke, H. & Henle, K. & Gruttke, H. (2002) -
Steinicke, H. Ulbrich, K. Henle, K. & Grosse, W.-R. (2000) -
A new method for the individual identification of Central European lacertid lizards is described. The method uses the fingerprint-like patterns of the ehest and anterior belly. This pattem does not show any ontogentic change and thus allows individual identification of new borns as weil. The method was tested for five species (Lacerta agilis, L. bilineata, L. viridis, and Podarcis muralis, and Zootoca vivipara) and probably is applicable to most (all) lacertids. As a reliable non-invasive method, it can replace all invasive methods like toe clipping.
Steiof, C. (1981) -
Stejneger, L. (1893) -
Stejneger, L. (1904) -
Stejneger, L. (1907) -
Stejneger, L. (1911) -
Stejneger, L. (1924) -
Stekolnikov, A.A. & Pfliegler, W.P. & Sciberras, A. (2014) -
A new species of chigger mite, Lacertacarus sardiniensis sp. nov., is described from a lizard Podarcis tiliguerta (Gmelin) collected in Sardinia. One species, Ericotrombidium caucasicum (Schluger, 1967), previously known from Southern Russia and Southern Ukraine, is recorded for the first time on the lizards Podarcis filfolensis (Bedriaga) and Podarcis siculus (Rafinesque-Schmaltz), and on Malta, Lipari Island and Alicudi Island (Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy).
Stellfeldt, H. (1929) -
Stemmler-Morath, C. (1937) -
Stemmler-Morath, S. (1954) -
Stemmler, C. (1939) -
Stemmler, O. (1962) -
Stemmler, O. (1968) -
Stemmler, O. (1971) -
Stemmler, O. (1972) -
Stemmler, O. (1979) -
Stemmler, O. (1982) -
Stemmler, Othmar (1957) -
Stender, E. (1902) -
Stender, E. (1912) -
Štepanek, O (1936) -
Stepanek, O. (1934) -
Stepanyan, I.E. & Arakelyan, M. & Danielyan, F. (2007) -
The first tetraploid hybrid in the group of Caucasian rock lizards of genus Darevskia was discovered in 2004 in a population near the village Kuchak (central part of Armenia). The majority of hybrid individuals, which are formed in a sympatric zone of parthenogenetic and bisexual species of Caucasian rock lizards, are triploid sterile females (3n = 57). However, karyological study among hybrids D. valentini x D. unisexualis revealed the tetraploid set of chromosomes for one specimen. This hybrid had two fully developed testes (2.4 x 3.2 mm), well organized hemipeneses and obvious visible femoral pores. The Giemsa-stained smears of testes have shown diakinetic stages of meiosis and middle, late spermatides (60%). The karyotype (4n=76, NF=76) was represented by 71 acrocentric chromosomes and 5 microchromosomes. So, this was a tetraploid male with sex chromosomes of wZZZ type.
Stepanyuk, Y.V. & Yaryhin, O.M. & Tityuk, O.V. (2015) -
In view of the transition to true terrestrial mode of existence in the olfactory organ of modern reptiles a clear differentiation between respiratory and olfactory parts took place, concha and nasopharyngeal canal appeared. The objective of this work is to show the particularities of morphogenesis of the external nostrils and choanae at successive stages of the development Sand lizard. Stages of ontogenesis were determined according to the tables of normal development for Lacerta vivipara. On the whole 12 embryos from 28th to 37th stage of Lacerta agilis were studied (Linnaeus, 1758). Dehydration, paraffin embedding, cutting of the material into 5-7 μm and 10-12 μm in frontal and transverse plane were carried out according to standard histological techniques. Preparations were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and by Steedman’s method. Photos of histological sections were obtained using a microscope Zeiss Axio Imager M1. Due to the dorsal invagination of placodes at the 28th stage of development the olfactory pits are shaping. At the 29th stage the olfactory pits turn into olfactory sacs that open inwards stomodeum. 32nd stage is characterized by the fact that two separate openings develop into a rostral one (primordium of external nostrils) as well as into a caudal one (primordium of internal nostrils, or choanae). Olfactory sacs are transformed into the nasal cavity. At the 33d stage external nostrils diminish, get a slit-like shape and shift rostrally from choanae. At the 34th stage external nostrils open on the lateral surface of the head. Rostral part of the olfactory organ forms the vestibulum. At the stage of 35-37 external nostrils shift more laterally, increase in size and at the 37th stage they get the definitive topography. Choanae stretch and become slit-like. Our research has shown that the olfactory organ undergoes a series of successive stages of development of: olfactory placodes – olfactory pits – olfactory sacs – nasal cavity. Owing to the shaping of the outgrowth at the 32nd stage the opening of olfactory sac bifurcates into the external nostrils and choanae that are next to each other. Slabý O. in his research also points out these morphological rearrangements. Differences in the development of reptiles’ structures may be associated with morphological reorganizations in the olfactory organ which are related to separation of vomeronasal organ and to shaping its own canal opening in the mouth. Thus, the shaping of external nostrils and choanae in L. agilis takes place through the formation of the septum in the opening of olfactory sacs. These morphological changes lead to the formation of functionally formed nasal cavity. After their formation the external nostrils shift rostrolaterally and get narrow. By contrast, choanae increase and become slit-like.
Степанюк, Я. В. & Яригін, O.M. & Титюк, О.В. (2015) -
У зв’язку з переходом до справжнього наземного способу існування у нюховому органі сучасних рептилій вперше відбулася чітка диференціація на респіраторну та нюхову частини, з’явились раковина та носоглотковий канал. Метою роботи є показати особливості морфогенезу зовнішніх ніздрів та хоан у послідовних стадіях розвитку ящірки прудкої. Стадії онтогенезу визначали за таблицями нормального розвитку для Lacerta vivipara. Усього досліджено 12 ембріонів з 28 по 37 стадію розвитку Lacerta agilis (Linnaeus, 1758). Дегідратацію, заливку в парафін, різку матеріалу у фронтальній та поперечній площині товщиною проводили відповідно до стандартних гістологічних методик. Препарати фарбували гематоксилін-еозином та за методом Стідмена. Фотографії гістологічних зрізів були отримані за допомогою мікроскопа Zeiss Axio Imager M1. На 28 стадії в результаті дорсальної інвагінації нюхових плакод формуються нюхові ямки. На 29 стадії нюхові ямки перетворюються на нюхові мішки, які відкриваються в стомодеум. 32 стадія характеризується тим, що формуються два окремих отвори – ростральний (зачаток зовнішніх ніздрів) та каудальний – (зачаток внутрішніх ніздрів, або хоан). Нюхові мішки трансформуються в носову порожнину. На 33 стадії зовнішні ніздрі зменшуються і мають щілиноподібну форму та зміщуються рострально від хоан. На 34 стадії зовнішні ніздрі відкриваються на латеральній поверхні голови. Ростральна частина нюхового органа формує присінок (вестибулюм). На стадії 35-37 зовнішні ніздрі зміщуються ще більш латерально, збільшуються в розмірах і на 37 стадії набувають дефінітивної топографії. Хоани витягуються і набувають щілиноподібної форми. Наші дослідження показали, що орган нюху проходить ряд послідовних стадій розвитку – нюхових плакод, нюхових ямок, нюхових мішків та носової порожнини. На 32 стадії розвитку внаслідок формування виросту отвір нюхового мішка розділяється на два – зовнішні ніздрі і хоани, які знаходяться поруч один біля одного. На такі морфологічні перебудови вказують і дослідження О. Шлабі. Відмінності у розвитку структур рептилій, можливо, пов’язані з морфологічними перебудовами в нюховому органі, які пов’язані з відокремленням вомероназального органа та формуванням власного каналу що відкривається в ротову порожнину. Отже, утворення зовнішніх ніздрів та хоан у L. agilis відбувається шляхом формування в отворі нюхових мішків перегородки. Такі морфологічні зміни призводять до утворення функціонально зрілої носової порожнини. Після утворення зовнішні ніздрі зміщуються ростролатерально і сильно звужуються, а хоани, навпаки, збільшуються та набувають щілиноподібного вигляду.
Stepien, J. (2016) -
Sterijovski, B. (2014) -
This study represents a contribution to our knowledge of amphibian and reptile fauna of the Bosilegrad region. The distribution of amphibians and reptiles in the area surrounding Bosilegrad is almost unknown; there are only a few published reports for this region. Over a period of four consecutive years, basic faunistic research was conducted on wide area of the region: 12 species of amphibians and 11 species of reptiles were recorded.
Sterijovski, B. & Tomovic, L. & Ajtic, R. (2014) -
Although reptile fauna of FYR of Macedonia (FYROM) was the matter of interest since more than a century, detailed distributions of most of the species are still missing. According to published data, 32 reptile species inhabit FYROM. In this paper, detailed distribution data of reptile species in FYROM are presented. Research of herpetofauna of FYROM was conducted from 1999 until 2012 and included 393 localities. For 32 recorded reptile species, exact localities and altitudes, as well as published records are given. Analyses of the reptile diversity of the FYROM showed that the regions with the highest species diversity are: the Prespa and Ohrid Lake Region, Skopje region, Veles region and the Dojran Lake Region, with 18-21 reptile species per UTM 10 x 10 squares. These regions should be considered for the future designation of important herpetological areas at national level. Results of comparative analysis of reptile faunas from all Balkan countries showed that Macedonian fauna is the most similar with Albanian (92.537) and Bulgarian (90.909) reptile faunas. Zoogeographic analysis showed that reptile fauna of FYROM consists of eight chorotypes in total, the most dominant chorotype being the Eastern-Mediterranean with 13 species, followed by the Turano-Mediterranean with six and Southern-European with five species. Detailed distribution data of this study could be basis for future action plans, protection and conservation measures of reptiles in FYROM, and should be implemented in the national legislation and acts. In addition, this data are imperative for the Red Data Book of reptilians and designation of the Important Herpetological Areas in the country.
Sternfeld, R. (1911) -
Sternfeld, R. (1912) -
Sternfeld, R. (1916) -
Stetzuhn, H. (2011) -
Steuer, A. (1897) -
Steward, J.W. (1965) -
Stewart, J.R. & Ecay, T.W. & Heulin, B. (2009) -
Stewart, J.R. & Ecay, T.W. & Heulin, B. & Fregoso, S.P. & Linville, B.J. (2011) -
The eggshell of oviparous lizards is a significant source of calcium for embryos, whereas the eggshell of viviparous lizards, when present, contains little calcium. In view of the potential cost to embryonic nutrition occasioned by the loss of eggshell calcium, the large number of independent origins of viviparity among lizards is surprising. Concomitant evolution of viviparity and calcium placentotrophy would ameliorate the loss of eggshell calcium, but a mechanism linking these events has yet to be discovered. Zootoca vivipara, a lizard with geographic variation in its mode of parity, is an excellent model for studying mechanisms of calcium transport to oviparous and viviparous embryos because each is highly dependent on calcium secreted by the uterus (eggshell or placenta) and ontogenetic patterns of embryonic calcium mobilization are similar. We compared developmental expression of the calcium transport protein calbindin-D28K in yolk splanchnopleure and chorioallantoic membranes of oviparous and viviparous embryos to test the hypothesis that the mechanism of calcium transport does not differ between modes of parity. We found that the ontogenetic pattern of protein expression is similar between reproductive modes and is correlated with calcium uptake from yolk and either eggshell or placenta. Calbindin-D28K is localized in the chorionic epithelium of embryos of both reproductive modes. These findings suggest that the embryonic calcium transport machinery is conserved in the transition between reproductive modes and that an adaptation of oviparous embryos for calcium uptake from eggshells functions similarly to transport calcium directly from uterine secretions.
Stewart, J.R. & Heulin, B. & Surget-Groba, Y. (2004) -
Reproductive mode has been remarkably labile among squamate reptiles and the evolutionary transition from oviparity to viviparity commonly has been accompanied by a shift in the pattern of embryonic nutrition. Structural specializations for placental transfer of nutrients during intrauterine gestation are highly diverse and many features of the extraembryonic membranes of viviparous species differ markedly from those of oviparous species. However, because of a high degree of evolutionary divergence between the species used for comparisons it is likely that the observed differences arose secondarily to the evolution of viviparity. We studied development of the extraembryonic membranes and placentation in the reproductively bimodal lizard Lacerta vivipara because the influence of reproductive mode on the structural/functional relationship between mothers and embryos can best be understood by studying the most recent evolutionary events. Lecithotrophic viviparity has evolved recently within this species and, although populations with different reproductive modes are allopatric, oviparous and viviparous forms interbreed in the laboratory and share many life history characteristics. In contrast to prior comparisons between oviparous and viviparous species, we found no differences in ontogeny or structure of the extraembryonic membranes between populations with different reproductive modes within L. vivipara. However, we did confirm conclusions from previous studies that the tertiary envelope of the egg, the eggshell, is much reduced in the viviparous population. These conclusions support a widely accepted model for the evolution of squamate placentation. We also found support for work published nearly 80 years ago that the pattern of development of the yolk sac of L. vivipara is unusual and that a function of a unique structure of squamate development, the yolk cleft, is hematopoiesis. The structure of the yolk sac splanchnopleure of L. vivipara is inconsistent with a commonly accepted model for amniote yolk sac function and we suggest that a long standing hypothesis that cells from the yolk cleft participate in yolk digestion requires further study.
Sticco, M. (2012) -
Stichting Herpetologische Studiegroepen (1988) -
Stichting Herpetologische Studiegroepen (1989) -
Stichting Herpetologische Studiegroepen, Herpetogeografische Dienst NVHT Lacerta en landelijke Herpetofauna Inventarisatie (1990) -
Stickler, F. (1951) -
Stiegler, B. (1969) -
Stiegler, B. (1973) -
Stille, B. & Stille, M. (2017) -
Stille, B. & Stille, M. (2917) -
Stöcker, J. (2012) -
Stoev, P. (2000) -
Stojanov, A. & Tzankov, N. & Naumov, B. (2011) -
Stoliczka, F. (1872) -
Stolk, A. (1958) -
Stolk, A. (1959) -
Stolk, A. (1962) -
Stolk, R. (1953) -
Stone, W. (1899) -
Stork, J. (1838) -
Storniolo, F. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Coladonato, A.J. & Mangiacotti, M. & Scali, S. & Sacchi, R. (2022) -
Parasites can significantly influence the ecology, behaviour and physiology of their hosts sometimes with remarkable effects on their survivorship. However, endemic parasites or those not associated with obvious clinical disease have been partly neglected in the past dec-ades comparatively to the most pathogenic ones. Apicomplexa are an important example of blood parasites that have been broadly investigated, although it can be difficult to determine the effects of infections at the population level, especially in widespread species. Such is the case of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis). We investigated 61 populations across Italy between 2008 and 2017 and recorded snout–vent length, latitude, date of collection and took blood samples for parasite count. We modelled parasite prevalence and load in a Bayesian framework. Parasites were present in all populations but 1 and in 13 of them all individuals were parasitized. We recorded almost identical responses for probability of infection and parasite load in both sexes, directly proportional to body size and inversely proportional to latitude, with a peak in cooler months. Therefore, haemosporidians can be very common in P. muralis, although their presence can vary significantly. Moreover, such a high prevalence makes it necessary to investigate to what extent haemosporidians affect hosts’ survivorship, taking into consideration abiotic and biotic factors such as temperature, hormone levels and immune response.
The common wall lizard Podarcis muralis is widespread in the Italian territory and, for this reason, it was studied extensively in the last decades. However, some aspects of its biology are still unclear and require specific research. This is the case of the parasite-host interaction with ubiquitous blood parasites of terrestrial vertebrates such Apicomplexa. Given the broad distribution of the common wall lizard in the territory and the frequent presence of haemoparasites in wild populations of reptiles, it is worth investigating how the two counterparts interact and the possible factors affecting presence and abundance of such parasites in lizard populations. In this study we have investigated 61 populations of the Italian peninsula from 2008 to 2017, analyzing frequency and intensity of the presence of Haemoproteus spp. in blood samples in relation to lizard size, latitude and checking for any effect of seasonality. The analyses showed that females are generally parasitized more frequently and intensely than males; moreover, in both sexes size has a positive effect on parasite presence as larger individuals are parasitized more frequently and intensely; on the other hand, latitude has a negative effect on as northern populations show lower parasite presence and load in both sexes. Eventually in terms of seasonality, we recorded a slight though significant effect in both sexes on both parasite presence and intensity. In conclusion, our study highlights that many different factors can influence such parasite-host interaction, although seasonality appears to play a marginal role in comparison to life-history traits or geographic factors.
Stosik, J. (2014) -
Stoue, W.K. (1983) -
Strachinis, I. (2022) -
Ammouliani is a small inhabited island of an area about 6.9 km2, located in the Gulf of Agion Oros, Chalkidiki, Greece. Hitherto, there have been no herpetological surveys on the island and thus its herpetofaunal composition is still unknown. In the current short note, records of amphibians and reptiles from Ammouliani Island are presented for the first time. A two-day expedition in Spring 2022 resulted in one amphibian and nine reptile species records, all found to occurin relatively low densities. The small number of species of the island and the low densities are discussed.
Strachinis, I. (2023) -
Peri-urban forests have both a protective and aesthetic role in cities, contributing to the health and well-being of their residents. Seich Sou is the peri-urban forest of Thessaloniki City, Greece, with an area of about 3000 ha. It offers protection from erosion and pollution, a place for recreation and it can also provide a wildlife refuge. To date, no thorough report on the Seich Sou’s herpetofauna exists in the literature, which is the aim of the present work. The presence of 32 herpetofauna species (seven amphibians and 25 reptiles) has been confirmed in the peri-urban forest, after numerous herpetological surveys that have been conducted within a 17-year time period. Amongst them, eight are listed in the Appendix II of the Council Directive 92/43/EC, three are characterized as Near Threatened and one as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Strachinis, I. & Artavanis, D. (2017) -
Strachinis, I. & Karagianni, K.M. & Stanchev, M. & Stanchev, N. (2019) -
Zootoca vivipara (Viviparous Lizard) is the terrestrial reptile with the largest and the highest latitudinal range in the world, ranging from West Europe to East Asia. It presents both viviparous and oviparous populations that are genetically distinct and several lineages have been recognized within its wide distribution. To date, the southernmost point of its range ever recorded was on Sovatya mountain (Perelik) in the western Rhodopes, Bulgaria, and despite the several herpetological surveys in the wider area, the species had never been recorded in Greek territory. In this document we present a new discovered population of Z. vivipara in the Greek (Southern) Rhodopes. This is the first record of the Viviparous Lizard in Greek land and therefore, a new reptile species for the Greek herpetofauna.
Strachinis, I. & Patroniis, P. & Karaikou, N. & Poulakakis, N. & Jablonski, D. & Tianafylliis, A. (2015) -
The lizards of the genus Algyroides belong to the family of Lacertidae and currently comprise four morphological species. Two of them (Algyroides nigropunctatus and A. moreoticus) are distributed in Greece, whereas the second one is a Greek endemic. Algyroides nigropunctatus interestingly presents two different location-specific color phenotypes. Hitherto, there hasn’t been any assiduous molecular study on the phylogenetic relationships between the different insular and continental populations of the two species, which is the aim of the present work. Fresh tissue samples, as well as voucher samples from the Natural History Museums of Crete and Bonn, were obtained in order to represent the two species’ range sufficiently. Both mitochondrial and nuclear genes were sequenced in order to reveal the intra- and inter-specific genetic differentiation. Mitochondrial data reveal the presence of several clades of A. nigropunctatus with distinct geographic distribution in southwestern Greece. Combining molecular data and field observations it seems that there is reproductive isolation between the two color morphotypes, which are genetically distinct, despite the absence of any geographic barrier in western mainland Greece. No significant divergence was revealed within A. moreoticus. Current data indicate a possible need for a thorough morphological survey that may contribute to a reevaluation of A. nigropunctatus taxonomy.
Strachinis, I. & Poulalakis, N. & Karaiskou, N. & Patronidis, P. & Patramanis, I. & Pousanidis, D. & Jablonski, D. & Triantafyllidis, A. (2020) -
The area of the south-western Balkans hosts a remarkably high species richness and has been considered a biodiversity hotspot. The significance of the Balkan Peninsula as a biodiversity refugium during the Quaternary climatic fluctuations has been repeatedly pointed out in literature, yet the area remains quite understudied in terms of phylogeography. Contributing to the biogeography and phylogeography of the Balkan area, we herein present the phylogeographic relationships within the lizards of the genus Algyroides, focusing on the two species that occur in the Balkans (namely, A. nigropunctatus and A. moreoticus), including representatives of Dinarolacerta and Lacerta lizards as outgroups. We combined phylogenetic, phylogeographic and species distribution modelling analyses, using both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA data, in order to uncover the phylogeographic history of the genus and evaluate the validity of the extant taxonomy. Our results reveal three major clades within Algyroides in southern Balkans; one corresponds to A. moreoticus, having sister group relationships with the genus Dinarolacerta, and the other two to A. nigropunctatus, each corresponding to one of the morphological subspecies, which seem to be monophyletic, allopatric and reproductively isolated. These results expose an unprecedented phylogeographic pattern in the area of western Greece where the two major clades of A. nigropunctatus meet, and can contribute to a taxonomic re-evaluation of the species. Moreover, questions are raised on the validity of Dinarolacerta as a genus due to it clustering within the genus Algyroides.
Strahl, H. (1883) -
Strahl, H. (1884) -
Strahl, H. (1892) -
Strahtemann, U (1986) -
Strauch, A. (1867) -
Strauch, A. (1868) -
Strauch, A. (1876) -
Strauch, A.A. (1876) -
Strauss, P. (2016) -
Climate change is considered to be one of the greatest threats to species and ecosystems globally and is likely to contribute to the rapidly increasing number of species extinction. In South Africa, these climatic changes have been noted and are thought to persist. Lizards, as ectotherms, are exceptionally vulnerable to changes in their thermal environments and could face even greater extinction risk if they lack the capacity to behaviourally mediate or rapidly adapt to changing thermal environments. Species distribution models have only recently started incorporating genetic and physiological mechanistic variables to more accurately predict species responses to climate change. This study investigates genetic and physiological traits in order to elucidate genetic patterns and thermal traits that could aid in more accurately predicting the climate change responses of a southern African lacertid lizard. In Chapter 2, I investigated the phylogeographic occurrence of Meroles knoxii along the west coastal margin of southern Africa, with special focus on the southern mesic extent of the distribution range. Phylogeographic and population genetic analyses consistently retrieved three distinct genetic clades (north, central and south) that occur allopatrically on a north-south axis along the coastline. Body size differences occur between the northern and southern clades with the northern xeric clade displaying significantly larger body sizes than the southern mesic clade, suggesting local adaptation to these environments in conjunction with the genetic differentiation observed. The southern clade exhibited no genetic differentiation at a small spatial scale and is thus considered a single population. In Chapter 3, the thermal sensitivity of several traits of M. knoxii was investigated comparing two sites within the southern clade to determine whether and which traits are variable or conserved at a small spatial scale. Selected body temperatures differed significantly between sites. However, these differences are not considered biologically relevant in this study. Critical thermal limits, resting metabolic rate and total evaporative water loss did not differ significantly between sites and is considered a conserved thermal trait at this small spatial scale. In addition, the potential trade-off of thermal performance traits (sprint speed and stamina) was investigated for this ambush predator at one site, Zandvlei Nature Reserve. As expected, M. knoxii displayed optimal sprint speed capacity at high test temperatures and optimal stamina at lower test temperatures. This study aims to illustrate the importance of incorporating ecologically relevant mechanistic variables into species distribution models to more accurately predict species potential responses to future climate change.
Street, D.J. (1976) -
Strejček, J. (1958) -
Striberny, W. (2013) -
Striberny, W. (2021) -
Strien, A. & Zuiderwijk, A. & Groenveld, A. (2001) -
Strijbosch, H. (1978) -
Strijbosch, H. (1986) -
In some parts of the Netherlands there is much resemblance in the distribution of the lizard species Lacerta agilis and L. vivipara. In most of these places there are sym- patric populations. At one such place we studied a mixed population during 7 successive years /1976-1982/. It was a heathland area in the southern part of the Netherlands, situated on inland dunes along the river Maas, called `de Hamert`. In the population studied the density (expressed as number/ha) is: L. agilis 95 and,L. vivipara 130. These are averages of the 7 years of study. The densities showed fluctuations in the different years of study but these fluctuations did not have mutual connections, so there are no signs of exclusion of one of the species by the other. At the same time as the Hamert study we studied an allopatric L. vivipara population, 50 km further to the north. Also this population occurred on inland dunes along the Maas, but these dunes are situated more isolated in the river plain and they are never reached by L. agilis. Furthermore we made a study into diel time use in three big out- door vivaria, one with only L. agilis, one with only L. vivipara and one with a mixed population. Niche segregation in lizards is a well studied topic /Toft, 1985/, but from Europe there are only a few examples /e.g. Glandt, 1977; Korsos, 1982, 1984/. For this lecture I selected those data of our investigation, which can throw some light on the niche dif- ferences in these two species. Following Pianka /1973/I have distinguished 3 dimensions within the niche of a species, that is the spatial, temporal and trophic dimension. As in Schoener /1974/ these can be subdivided into the following six categories: macrohabi- tat and microhabitat, seasonal time and diel time, food type and food size. To measure niche breadth, when possible, I used the diversity index of Simpson, standardized in such a way that the values obtained varied between 0 and 1 /following Levins, 1968/. For computing niche overlap I used Pianka`s index of overlap /Pianka, 1973/, so these values also range between 0 and 1.
Strijbosch, H. (1987) -
Strijbosch, H. (1988) -
The habitat selection of Lacerta vivipara was studied in an area of inland dunes by comparing the relative occurrence of individuals with the relative presence of a number of potential habitats. Habitats with a strong spatial heterogeneity were clearly preferred, no matter whether they were humid or dry. The microhabitat of this lizard was always there where good possibilities for thermoregulatory behaviour were present within a very limited area. No differences in habitat selection were found for the age classes and sexes.
Strijbosch, H. (1993) -
Strijbosch, H. (1994) -
A BLUE COLOURED LACERTA AGILIS A description is given of a blue coloured, male Sand Lizard which was found in a small isolated population in the south-east of the Netherlands. One explanation of this abnormal colour is the absence of the lipophil layer due to a mutation. Another possibility is that the animal originated from an indoor terrarium; it is known that normally green animals held in the absence of sunlight are often blue in colour. In this case the animal must have been recently released as captive-bred specimens return rapidly to their natural green colour after exposure to the sun.
Strijbosch, H. (1995) -
Strijbosch, H. (1998) -
Strijbosch, H. (1999) -
In pristine conditions, Mediterranean Europe was covered by dense forests during all Pleistocene and in more recent warm periods. Combined with its rather northern position this means that at that time, apart from in coastal environments, lizard habitats would have been present only where open places were formed by the action of storms, natural fires and the erosive forces of rivers. The latter will have been the most reliable and also the most important force, especially combined with the influence of large grazing and browsing animals. Variations in habitat quality in the resulting open spaces are determined by longitudinal gradients in temperature, humidity, steepness and trophic conditions. Present day ecological differentiation and some special characteristics of the lizards will be discussed in the light of these hypotheses.
Nach einer kurzen Beschreibung der inneren Schwanzmorphologie der Eidechsen, mit besonderer Betonung der Autotomie-Fähigkeit und des normalen Regenerationsprozesses, wird der Ursprung der seltenen doppelten oder dreifachen Regenerate gezeigt. Innerhalb der europäischen Eidechsen fand der Autor gegabelte Schwänze bei 8 verschiedenen Arten (Lacerta agilis, L. viridis, L. bilineata, Podarcis muralis, P. taurica, P. tiliguerta, Psammodromus algirus und Zootoca vivipara), wobei die mittlere Häufigkeit des Phänomens bei 1 : 1400 Tieren lag.
Strijbosch, H. (2002) -
Strijbosch, H. (2004) -
Strijbosch, H. (2006) -
Strijbosch, H. (2008) -
Detectability plays a major role in estimating lizard popu- lations. Here a new method is presented, with which estimations can be made on the numbers of common lizards and sand lizards. It is based on the numbers seen per man hour in a certain type of terrain, at a certain hour of the day in a certain period of the year and of course in a certain type of weather. With this method repeatable figures can be obtained when carried out in certain hours in the months of April, May and early June and in a part of September, for the sand lizard even in some hours of July and August.
Strijbosch, H. (2009) -
Strijbosch, H. & Bonnemayer, J.J.A.M. & Dietvorst, P.J.M. (1980) -
In a one year study we collected ecological data of the northernmost population of P. muralis in Maastricht (50° 51` N. Lat. in the Netherlands). This population consisted of about 100 adult lizards. It was probably definitely divided in two subpopulations situated close to each other which were subdivided into 5 and 2 colonies respectively, between which there was no or hardly any exchange. Sex ratio did not significantly differ from 1.0. Compared with the wall lizards of more southern populations they were found to be rather small and to grow more slowly. The age structure of the population was out of balance on account of the small numbers of some younger year classes. Only good, i.e. warmer years are likely to enable a reasonable reproduction success. The total period of activity does not differ from that in more southern regions but the reproduction period is clearly retarded and the incubation period of eggs is distinctly longer. The frequent partial reproduction failure is probably compensated by a rather high longevity, which, however, renders the population very sensitive to each factor that increases mortality. The animals have home ranges of 15-25 m2 (no significant differences between sexes) and they have a considerable home range overlap. These home range sizes do not differ from those in more southern regions but the overlaps are much more frequent and therefore it can be concluded that there is a strong concentration on ecologically suitable and spatially very restricted spots. From a list of prey species based on faeces analysis P. muralis appears to be a non-selective feeder. On two adult specimens we found the acarine ectoparasite Ophionyssus lacertinus.
Strijbosch, H. & Creemers, R.C.M. (1988) -
A mark-recapture study was carried out in sympatric populations of Lacerta agilis and Lacerta vivipara in the Netherlands from 1976 to 1982. In most years the age structure of both populations was pyramidal. For both species life expectation of females was higher and on average they did live longer. Hence the sex ratio for adults deviated significantly from 1.0 in favour of females. Maximum age for Lacerta vivipara was 8 years (female) and for Lacerta agilis 12 years (male). The density of both species fluctuated around 100/ha. The biomass of Lacerta agilis was twice that of Lacerta vivipara. In Lacerta vivipara the 3rd and 4th calendar year class supplied 78% of total net reproduction; in Lacerta agilis the 4th, 5th, and 6th calendar year classes supplied 68%. In both populations the population replacement rate was 2. Population turnover time was 4.83 years for Lacerta agilis and 2.81 for Lacerta vivipara. The life history strategy of the Lacerta vivipara population is compared with six other European Lacertavivipara populations.
Strijbosch, H. & Creemers, R.C.M. & Lamberts, J. & Martens, J.G.W. & Mulder, J. & Muster, J.C.M. & Rijst J. & Spaargaren, J.J. van der & Zollinger, R. (1986) -
Strijbosch, H. & Gelder, J.J. van (1996) -
Lacerta agilis and Lacerta vivipara females deposit their eggs on carefully selected nest sites and for a part show aggressive behaviour as a respons to nest disturbances shortly after egg deposition. Both species repair the damaged nest sites. Comparable behaviours are described for some other lacertids. Long lasting direct care for eggs or defence of juveniles has never been observed among members of this family.
Strijbosch, H. & Helmer, W. & Scholte, P.T. (1989) -
During a field study in 1983-1984 in a 200 km 2 study area in the south of Evros province (Greece) the presence of 11 lizard species was established. For every species a distribution map within the area is supplied. In different parts of the area thc lizards formed different species combinations. Ophisops elegans appeared to vicariate in certain terrains with both Podarcis erhardii and P. taurica. By studying habitat selection and activity patterns of all species data on spatial and temporal niche segregation could be obtained. The activity patterns of all species were strongly influenced by exposition and altitude. In some species a strong altitude influence was also measured on growth and some other life history data. Some pairs of morphologically or ecologically related species are compared in more detail. Some species occurred in very high densities (Lacerta viridis up to 500, Ablepharus kitaibelii up to 1100 ind./ha). Tail loss frequencies of all species are given. For many birds of prey they formed an essential food source.
Strijbosch, H. & Martens, G.J. & Spaargaren, J.J. (1990) -
Strijbosch, H. & Pouwels, W.Th.G. & Bellink, P.J. & Bugter, R.J.F. & Creemers, R.C.M. & Erftemeyer, P.L.A. & Foppen, R.P.B. & Hagemeyer, E.J.M. & Laan, R.M. & Marijnissen, J.W.N. & Moonen, M.P.H.M. & Peeters, S.A.M. & Schelwald, R.A. & Swaay, C.A.M. & Teunis, H. van & Vergeer, L.H.T. & Verouden, F.H. & Wynhoff, I. (1985) -
Strijbosch, H. & Rooy, P.T.J.C. van & Voesenek, L.A.C.J. (1983) -
Displacements over distances of 70-150 m were carried out with 48 L. agilis and 34 L. vivipara in order to determine their ability to return to their original home range. Return rates for 70 m displacements averaged 81.5 % for L. agilis and 50 % for L. vivipara; for 100 m displacements these figures were 66.7 % and 28.6 % respectively; 150 m displacements never resulted in homing. Most returns occurred within a few days. Probably both species are familiar with a far greater area than is suggested by their home range size.
Strijbosch, H. & Verhoeven, J. (1997) -
A BLACK LACERTA AGILIS: VICTIM OF ISOLATION ? A description is given of a completely black, adult, male Lacerta agilis which was found in the same, small, isolated population of the southeastern Netherlands, in which a blue spe- cimen was found two years previously. Isolation and inbreeding are suggested as the possible causes of these abnormalities.
Strijbosch, H. & Winden, J. van der (1999) -
In the westernmost parts of its distribution area Ophisops elegans has to share its potential habitat with a number of other lacertid species, which are absent for the greater part in the more central parts of its distribution area. This higher biotic stress is added to stronger physiological constraints posed by lower temperatures. These factors restrict its possibilities adn probably eventually cause the distribution limit.
Strijbosch, M. (2020) -
This article is about keeping and breeding the Caspian Green Lizard (Lacerta strigata). The author describes his experiences with various couples he kept, and the somewhat successful breeding of the third couple. In five clutches 29 eggs were laid, some of them infertile, some of them containing young animals hat never hatched. From these eggs a total of only nine healthy young were born, possibly due to the relatively young age of the female. There is also a short discussion about the aggressiveness of the species. One couple could not be housed together, due to the aggressive nature of the male, and five young from one clutch were so intolerant towards each other that three of them lost their tails. The animals seem to be more aggressive in indoor vivariums than outdoors, though the author concludes it’s too early to pinpoint an exact cause.
Strödicke, M. (1995) -
So far, the Green Lizard, Lacerta viridis (LAURENTI, 1768), was observed at several places in the Czech Republic. Some of these places and one such place in Brandenburg (Germany) form the northern boun- dary of the distribution area that is not any longer closed in this region. A lot of information about the existence of the Green Lizard in the Czech Republic is comparatively old, and some of it dates back to the 19th century. Therefore it became necessary to evaluate the current state of the Green Lizard distribution in this area. In August 1990 and in the following years the presence of an isolated population of the Green Lizard was confirmed in a climatically favourable area along the river Ohfe (Eger) after a long period.
Strugariu, A. & Gherghel, I. & Nicoara, A. & Hutuleac-Volosciu, M.-V. & Moraru, V. & Mizerus, A. (2009) -
The present paper represents a contribution to the knowledge regarding the current composition and distribution of the herpetological fauna from a poorly surveyed Romanian region (Vaslui County, Eastern Romania). We confirm the presence of most of the recently recorded amphibian and reptile species from the region (Lissotriton vulgaris, Triturus cristatus, Bombina bombina, Pelobates fuscus, Bufo viridis, Hyla arborea, Pelophylax ridibundus, P. kl. esculentus, Rana dalmatina, Emys orbicularis, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis and Natrix natrix), give the first recent records for two species (Coronella austriaca and Vipera berus) which have not been recorded in the county since the 1960’s and also give the first ever record for the slow-worm (Anguis fragilis) in Vaslui County.
Strugariu, A. & Gherghel, I. & Puscasu, C.M. & Sahlean, T.C. (2007) -
Strugariu, A. & Gherghel, I. & Zamfirescu, S.R. (2008) -
Strugariu, A. & Sos, T. & Gherghel, I. & Ghira, I. & Sahlean, T.C. & Puscasu, C.M. & Hutuleac-Volosciuc, M.V. (2008) -
The present paper presents the results of a study focused on one of the most important herpetofaunal areas from Romania, the Macin Mountains. Twelve amphibian (Triturus dobrogicus, Lissotriton vulgaris, Bombina bombina, Pelobates fuscus, Pelobates syriacus balcanicus, Hyla arborea, Bufo viridis, Bufo bufo, Pelophylax lessonae, Pelophylax ridibundus, Pelophylax kl. esculentus, Rana dalmatina) and thirteen reptile (Emys orbicularis, Testudo graeca ibera, Ablepharus kitaibelli stepaneki, Podarcis tauricus, Lacerta viridis, Lacerta trilineata dobrogica, Natrix natrix, Natrix tessellata, Dolichophis caspius, Zamenis longissimus, Elaphe sauromates, Coronella austriaca, Vipera ammodytes montandoni) species or subspecies have been identified in the research area. Pelobates syriacus, Pelobates fuscus, Pelophylax lessonae and Pelophylax kl. esculentus have been recorded for the first time in the region. Precise distribution maps were made for all the identified species/subspecies and the local status and endangering factors of the species is discussed.
Struijk, P.J.H. (2009) -
The importance of drift-sand areas for reptiles is often underestimated. In The Netherlands the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) is the most common reptile inhabiting this particular landscape. Although completely bare driftsand seems inhospitable for reptiles in general, common lizards were found on isolated vegetated islands within in this habitat. It is known that some individuals crossed bare drift-sand of at least 80 meter. In this article the importance of four habitats within the Hulshorsterzand (NW) Veluwe) is discussed: drift-sands, lichen vegetation, wavy hair-grass (Deschampsia flexuosa) vegetation and heather (Calluna vulgaris) vegetation. Recently, land managers devote much attention to the restoration of drift-sands. Along with this restoration, reptile habitat is often destroyed and therefore it is whise to compensate this loss in the immediate area. Often, this is possible by clearing parts of the surrounding (pine) forest.
Struijk, P.J.H. & Bogaerts, S. & Delft, J.C.W. van (2014) -
Struijk, R.P.J.H. & Demirkapu, B. & Visser M. de & Wielstra, B. (2021) -
Niet veel mensen weten van het voorkomen van smaragdhagedissen in Scheveningen. Op een geïsoleerd duin midden in een recreatieve hotspot leeft al zeker enkele decennia een kleine populatie. Naast de succesvolle vestiging van de exotische ondersoorten van de inheemse muurhagedis (Podarcis muralis) is dit de eerste nieuwe hagedissensoort die zich in Nederland heeft weten te vestigen. Vanwege de voorgenomen aanleg van een parkeergarage, waarvoor het gehele duin moet worden ontgraven, is het einde voor deze populatie echter nabij. Op de valreep, in 2019 en 2020, is er toch nog beperkt onderzoek uitgevoerd.
Struijk, R.P.J.H. & Demirkapu, B. & Visser, M. de & Wielstra, B.M. (2022) -
Smaragdhagedissen hebben een wijde verspreiding in Zuid- en Centraal-Europa en Klein-Azië. De meest noordelijke populaties bevinden zich in het oosten en westen van Duitsland. Dit zijn geïsoleerde relictpopulaties van respectievelijk de oostelijke smaragdhagedis (Lacerta viridis) en de westelijke smaragdhagedis (L. bilineata). Enkele losse waarnemingen uit Nederland zijn bekend, maar de aanwezigheid van een populatie westelijke smaragdhagedissen zal menigeen waarschijnlijk niet voor mogelijk houden.
Struijk, R.P.J.H. & Jansen, S: & Veer, O.D. van de (2014) -
Die Zerschneidung von Lebensräumen wird maßgeblich durch Straßen verursacht. Zur Abschwächung von Isolationseffekten werden häufig Durchlässe eingesetzt. Da Amphibien und Reptilien besonders empfindlich auf die negativen Effekte von Habitatfragmentierung reagieren, sind funktionale Überquerungsstrukturen von großer Bedeutung. Dennoch ist sehr wenig über die Nutzung etwaiger Strukturen durch Reptilien bekannt und relativ häufig werden ineffektive Anlagen installiert. Wir entwarfen einen neuen Typ eines Durchlasses, ein Herpetodukt, um Heidelebensräume der Elspeetscher Heide, Provinz Gelderland, zu vernetzen, die durch die Landstraße N310 und einen Fahrradweg zerschnitten werden. Dabei konzentrierten wir uns darauf, innerhalb der Anlage ein für Reptilien geeignetes Mikroklima zu schaffen und für ein Leitungssystem zu und durch die Anlage zu sorgen. Ein Charakteristikum ist der offene mittlere Streifen, der die beiden Fahrspuren der Straße und den Fahrradweg voneinander trennt. Bei insgesamt 25 Begehungen in 2012, 2013 und 2014 konnten Zootoca vivipara (N = 16), Lacerta agilis (N = 4), Anguis fragilis (N = 1), Vipera berus (N = 2), Rana arvalis (N = 1), Bufo bufo (N = 1) und Ichthyosaura alpestris (N = 1) in dem Durchlass nachgewiesen werden. 47,8 % aller Reptilienbeobachtungen in dem Durchlass bestanden aus nahrungssuchendem Verhalten, wohingegen das Verhalten in dem offenen mittleren Durchlassbereich zu 69,6 % der Thermoregulation diente. In drei Fällen konnten wir ein gradliniges Durchqueren des Durchlasses feststellen. Zudem wurde die Geburt von mindestens fünf Zootoca vivipara in dem Durchlass dokumentiert. Unsere Ergebnisse zeigen, dass der neue Durchlasstyp gut funktioniert und neue Erkenntnisse zu dem Thema liefert.
Stuart-Fox, D. & Godinho, R. & Irwin, N. & Goüy de Bellocq, J. & Brito, J.C. & Mouissalli, A. & Hugall, A.F. & Baird, J.E. (2009) -
Divergence in female mate preferences can strongly influence the structure and dynamics of hybrid zones. We examined the potential role of female mate preferences in maintaining an abrupt west-east mtDNA cline between two deeply divergent genetic lineages of Lacerta schreiberi, a lizard endemic to the Iberian Peninsula. The lineages are largely morphologically cryptic but with respect to the mtDNA cline, western males tend to be less parasitized, in better body condition and more intensely coloured than eastern males, a pattern that cannot be explained by environmental variation alone. The lineages may also differ in unmeasured aspects such as physiology, behaviour and olfactory signals, which may influence mate choice. As female mate attraction has been found to vary with olfactory cues in lacertid lizards, we experimentally tested whether females were differentially attracted to femoral pore secretions of males from the two genetic backgrounds. Females did not prefer scents of `higher quality` western males, nor did they prefer the scents of males belonging to their own genetic background. This suggests the abrupt mtDNA cline is unlikely to be explained by assortative mating of matrilineages that distinguish male genetic background based on scent.
Stuart, B.L & Emmett, D.A. (2006) -
We describe a collection of 78 species of amphibians and reptiles from the Cardamom Mountains, southwestern Cambodia. One frog (Calluella guttulata), six lizards (Draco taeniopterus, Dasia olivacea, Lygosoma bowringii, Scincella melanosticta, Sphenomorphus stellatum, and Ptychozoon lionotum), and four snakes (Boiga dendrophila, B. multomaculata, Rhabdophis nigrocinctus, and Xenochrophis trianguligerus) are reported from Cambodia for the first time. Anthopogenically modified environments contain mostly species having broad geographic ranges in Southeast Asia. However, the frog and lizard faunas of intact environments in the Cardamom Mountains are largely distinct from those in the mountainous areas of eastern Cambodia.
Stuart, B.L & Sok, K. & Neang, T. (2006) -
The first amphibian and reptile collection is reported from hilly eastern Cambodia since Henri Mouhot’s work in 1859. The collection contains 30 species of amphibians and 42 species of reptiles. Leptobrachium mouhoti, new species, and Ophryophryne synoria, new species, are described. Of the remaining collection, 11 species of amphibians (39.3%) and seven species of snakes (33.3%) are reported from Cambodia for the first time. Comparisons of the frogs show strong faunal overlap with that of mountainous central Vietnam, but little faunal overlap with the Cardamom Mountains of southwestern Cambodia.
Stuart, C.T. (1980) -
Stückler, S. (2019) -
Stugren, B. (1961) -
Stugren, B. (1968) -
Stugren, B. (1984) -
Stugren, B. (1986) -
Stugren, B. & Popovici (1962) -
Stugren, B. & Vancea, S. (1961) -
Stumpel, A.H.P. (1988) -
Stumpel, A.H.P. (1989) -
Stumpel, A.H.P. (1990) -
Stumpel, A.H.P. (2004) -
This thesis deals with the nature conservation of reptiles and amphibians in the Netherlands, the present practices and what should be done to improve them. Most of the species of the herpetofauna, as these groups together are known, are in a state of continuing decline. Obviously something is wrong; apart from the role played in this decline by loss of habitat, measures in the field are not effective for the sustainable survival of these species. This thesis has been written to rectify this; based on current knowledge of the ecology of these protected animals and on own experiences with nature management, it is meant to provide a guide and practical tool when carrying out the appropriate measures in the field. The introduction describes work that has been done internationally, especially at European level, to protect the herpetofauna. Further, how this has influenced policy plans and legislation in the Netherlands. It also points out the shortcomings, both in the approach of the policymakers, as well as in the current training of nature managers, and how these are reflected by the measures taken in the field. This information provides a background for chapter 7, the last chapter of this thesis, where the practice of management is discussed. The remaining chapters include five articles on ecological research; they also show how much time is needed to improve our knowledge on the ecology of these animals. Also, not understanding it can unwittingly create marginal conditions for a species, as was the case for the Slow-worm and Sand Lizard with the forest management on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug in the 1980s; this is described in the first two articles. That long-term surveys of population dynamics are more than necessary, is shown by the great fluctuations in the presence and activity of the European tree frog over the six years it was studied in the southwest of the Netherlands. Methodology is also discussed in this third article, and a practical formula given for estimating population size. Pond characteristics form the subject of the next article, wherein statistical analysis illustrates how they can indicate the possible presence and therefore the suitability of a pond for amphibians. Practical indications are given, useful when constructing new ponds as part of the Pond Action Plans. The last article has implications for the reintroduction of species into new or former habitats. That there is phenotypic variation within species of amphibians occurring within 200 kilometres of each other, shows that, to avoid failure, this should be taken into account in the selection both of the source population and the location of the habitat into which the animals are to be introduced. All these aspects are brought together in the final chapter where the practice of the conservation of both groups is discussed in turn. The habitats are the point of departure, and it is shown how conservation measures with plants or landscapes in mind can bring about deterioration or loss of habitat for a particular species of reptile or amphibian. The integration of management goals should be the approach for as far as is possible, but legal obligations may force us to take species specific measures into account for herpetofauna. Heathlands are of utmost importance for reptiles and the most relevant features of the management for this type of habitat are highlighted. For their part, amphibians find their major aquatic habitat in ponds. Details are given of the management for various amphibian species, both in ponds, and as far as we know it, in their habitat on land. The extensive literature on these subjects, found at the end of Chapters 1 and 7, as well as that of the articles, provides opportunity for going further into depth. The recommendations from Chapter 7, dealing with the structure of the vegetation to a considerable extent, should improve the situation of the herpetofauna in the Netherlands.
Stumpel, A.H.P.& Werf, D.C. van der (2012) -
A two-year reptile survey was conducted in a heathland in the north of the Netherlands, using artificial refuges placed in different habitats. The studied habitats differed in their botanical composition and physical structure. Five reptile species were recorded: slow worm (Anguis fragilis), viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara), smooth snake (Coronella austriaca), grass snake (Natrix natrix) and adder (Vipera berus). Randomization tests were applied to assess the relationship between the presence of reptile species and habitat. Highest numbers of reptiles were found in habitats with a combination of common heather and purple moor grass, whereas habitats with common rush scored the lowest. The slow-worm preferred habitats consisting of common heather or crowberry, or a combination of these plants with purple moor grass. The viviparous lizard preferred habitats with common heather and purple moor grass. The impact of current nature management on the maintenance and development of these habitats is discussed, and recommendations are given for reptile faunal management.
Stumpel, T. & Kats, R. van & Jong, T. de (2020) -
Op het militaire oefenterrein Leusderheide leven veel zandhagedissen. Waar zitten ze precies, hoeveel zijn er, waar leggen ze eieren, en wat is de invloed van het terreingebruik op de populatie? De gevonden aantallen konden worden omgerekend naar dichtheden en werden gerelateerd aan de structuur van de vegetatie. Het militaire gebruik had een positieve invloed door de grote variatie in intensiteit en plaats van uitvoering in samenhang met de grote oppervlakte van het gebied.
Su, X. & Liu, J. & Chen, D. & Guoi, X. (2019) -
The viviparous Multiocellated Racerunner, Eremias multiocellata, is widespread in North China, Mongolia, and the Tuva Republic of Russia. A nearly complete mitochondrial genome of one individual from the suburb of Jingyuan County in Northwest China was determined by next-generation sequencing. The mitogenome is 17,333 bp in size, comprising 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), and one control region. The gene arrangement and composition is similar to the typical mitochondrial DNA of vertebrates. With exception to the control region, all of the 37 genes were completely recovered. The concatenated PCGs were used to conduct Bayesian phylogenetic analyses together with several related lizards with mitogenome data in GenBank. The resulting phylogenetic tree confirmed the monophyly of both genus Eremias and its viviparous group. The mitogenome sequence will provide fundamental data for resolving phylogenetic and genetic problems related to Eremias viviparity.
Suárez González, M. (2020) -
The expansion of urban areas and the correspondinganthropic actions have caused species to change their morphology and behavior compared with the individuals of the same species that live in rural areas. These changes have been shown to occur in several species and are considered to be the result ofbehavioral plasticity or micro-evolutionary changes. The initialobjective of this study was to analyze if there were differences in morphology and behavior between two different populations of Gallotia galloti, living respectivelyin urban and rural areas of Tenerife. Morphological and behavioral characteristics could only be taken from individuals of a rural population (3 males and 6 females). The statistical analysis of data obtained showed significative differences between sexes in: Snout-vent length, (SVL),pileus width (PW), head height (HH), and length of the two forelimbs. However, there were non-significant differences between sexes in the selected behavioral parameters. In order to obtain a wider understanding of this subject, Ialso performed abibliographic review in lizards of several species. This revision revealed specific changes in morphological and behavioral parameters between individuals living in urbanized areas in comparison with those of natural habitats, as well as some potential explanation for them.
Suárez, N.M. & Betancor, E. & Pestano, J. (2010) -
The Gallotia bravoana lizard, is an endangered species endemic to the Canary Island, entirely restricted to a very small area (*1 Ha) in La Gomera. Here we report the isolation and characterization of fifteen microsatellite loci following an enrichment protocol. Although five loci were monomorphic, an average of 2.1 alleles per locus and an average observed heterozygosity of 0.423 were found (n = 33) for the remaining loci. The loci were tested for their ability to cross amplify in all Gallotia species. These microsatellites will be used to manage a captive breeding programme for this endangered species.
Sucea, F.-N. (2019) -
Darevskia praticola was encountered for the second time in the Jiu Gorge National Park, Romania. The species was observed in August 2018, in a compact beech forest, at 562 m altitude. This record indicates that the forests in the Jiu Gorge National Park could shelter species whose distribution is, even nowadays, insufficiently known.
Suchov, G.F. (1926) -
Suchow, G.F. (1927) -
Сухов Г.Ф. (1927) -
Suchow, G.F. (1928) -
Сухов Г.Ф. (1928) -
Suchow, G.F. (1929) -
Suchow, G.F. (1936) -
Suchow, G.F. (1948) -
Сухов Г.Ф. (1948) -
Sudendey, F. (2008) -
Suh, J.-H. & Kim, H.-C. & Yun, S.-M. & Lim, J.-W. & Kim, J.-H. & Chong, S.-T. & Kim, D.-H. & Kim, H.-T. & Kim, H. & Klein, T.A. & Johnson, J.L. & W.-J. Lee (2016) -
A survey of reptile-associated ticks and their infection status with severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) virus was conducted to determine the relative abundance and distribution among lizards, skinks, and snakes in the Republic of Korea (ROK). In total, 132 reptiles, including 49 lizards (two species), 15 skinks (one species), and 68 snakes (eight species) were collected. In total, 84 ixodid ticks belonging to two genera (Ixodes and Amblyomma) were collected from 28/132 (21.2%) lizards, skinks, and snakes. Ixodes nipponensis Kitaoka & Saito was only collected from lizards and skinks, while Amblyomma testudinarium Koch was only collected from snakes. Takydromus wolteri had the highest tick index (0.7; total number ticks/total number collected hosts) among lizards and skinks, while Rhabdophis tigrinus had the highest tick index (2.2) among the snakes. Ixodes nipponensis larvae and nymphs accounted for 11.1% and 88.9%, respectively, of all ticks collected from lizards and skinks, while only A. testudinarium nymphs were collected from snakes. Nymphs of both species of ticks were collected from lizards and skinks from April to October, while I. nipponensis larvae were collected only from September to October. Ixodes nipponensis larvae and nymphs were preferentially attached to the lateral trunk (83.3%) and the foreleg axillae (16.7%) of lizards and skinks. SFTS virus was detected in both I. nipponensis and A. testudinarium collected from lizards and snakes. Phylogenetic analysis of SFTS viruses of ticks collected from two lizards and one snake demonstrated close relationships with SFTS virus strains observed from humans and ticks in the ROK, China, and Japan. These results implicate lizards and snakes as potential hosts of SFTS virus.
Sührig, A. & Kubisch, P. (2013) -
Sümer, N. & Yildirimhan, H.S. & Bursey, C.R. & Birlik, S. & Kumlutas, Y. & Ilgaz, C. & Candan, K. & Caynak, E.Y. (2023) -
Thirty-eight individuals of Anatololacerta anatolica (Werner, 1902) (17 males, 20 females, and 1 juvenile) were collected by hand from western Provinces of Türkiye and the following helminth species were found: 1 species of Digenea Plagiorchis elegans (Rudolphi, 1802) Braun, 1902, 1 species of Cestoda Mesocestoides sp. (tetrathyridia), and 4 species of Nematoda Skrjabinodon medinae, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni Li, 1934, Skrjabinelazia taurica, and Spauligodon aloisei. Anatololacerta anatolica represents a new host record for P. elegans, S. taurica and S. aloisei.
Sun, B. & Williams, C.M. & Li, T. & Speakman, J.R. & Jin, Z. & Lu, H. & Luo, L. & Du, W. (2021) -
Patterns in functional diversity of organisms at large spatial scales can provide insight into possible responses to future climate change, but it remains a challenge to link large-scale patterns at the population or species level to their underlying physiological mechanisms at the individual level. The climate variability hypothesis predicts that temperate ectotherms will be less vulnerable to climate warming than tropical ectotherms, due to their superior acclimatization capacity. However, metabolic acclimatization occurs over multiple levels, from the enzyme and cellular level, through organ systems, to whole-organism metabolic rate (hereafter biological hierarchy). Previous studies have focused on one or a few levels of the biological hierarchy, leaving us without a general understanding of how metabolic acclimatization might differ between tropical and temperate species. Here, we investigate thermal acclimation of three species of Takydromus lizards distributed along a broad latitudinal gradient in China, by studying metabolic modifications at the level of the whole organism, organ, mitochondria, metabolome, and proteome. As predicted by the climate variability hypothesis, the two temperate species T. septentrionalis and T. wolteri had an enhanced acclimation response at the whole organism level compared to the tropical species T. sexlineatus, as measured by respiratory gas exchange rates. However, the mechanisms by which whole organism performance was modified was strikingly different in the two temperate species: widespread T. septentrionalis modified organ sizes, while the narrowly distributed T. wolteri relied on mitochondrial, proteomic and metabolomic regulation. We suggest that these two mechanisms of thermal acclimatization may represent general strategies used by ectotherms, with distinct ecological costs and benefits. Lacking either of these mechanisms of thermal acclimatization capacity, the tropical species is likely to have increased vulnerability to climate change.
Sun, B.J. & Li, S.R. & Xu, X.F. & Zhao, W.G. & Luo, L.G. & Ji, X. & Du, W.G. (2012) -
Life history traits may vary within and among species. Rarely, however, are both variations examined concurrently to identify the life history adaptation. We found that female body size, offspring number and size, and incubation period showed convergent evolution in two lacertid lizards (Takydromus wolteri and Eremias argus) that occur sympatrically in high-latitude and low-latitude localities. Females from the high-latitude population were larger and produced larger clutches than those from the low-latitude population. In both species, the incubation period was shorter for the high-latitude population than for the low-latitude population. However, the physiological mechanism underlying the shorter incubation period differed between the species. These results suggest that: (1) sympatric lizards may adopt similar reproductive strategies in response to their common environments, and (2) embryonic development of the two species follows different pathways for adaptation to low temperatures. This study highlights the importance of understanding the adaptive evolution of life history in response to environmental changes at the embryonic life stages.
Sun, B.J. & Wang, Y. & Wang, Y. & Lu, H.L. & Du, W.G. (2018) -
Parental effects may produce adaptive or maladaptive plasticity that either facilitates persistence or increases the extinction risk of species and populations in a changing climate. However, empirical evidence of transgenerational adaptive plastic responses to climate change is still scarce. Here we conducted thermal manipulation experiments with a factorial design in a Chinese lacertid lizard ( Takydromus septentrionalis) to identify the fitness consequences of parental effects in response to climate warming. Compared to present climate conditions, a simulated warming climate significantly advanced the timing of oviposition, depressed the immune capability of post-partum females, and decreased the hatching success of embryos, but did not affect female reproductive output (clutch size and egg mass). These results indicate that maternal warming negatively affects female health, and embryonic hatchability. More interestingly, we found that offspring from parents exposed to warming environments survived well under a simulated warming climate, but not under a present climate scenario. Accordingly, our study demonstrates anticipatory parental effects in response to a warming climate in an ectothermic vertebrate. However, the fitness consequences of this parental effect will depend on future climate change scenarios.
Sun, T. & Bi, J. & Zhang, R. (2019) -
The selection and utilization of nest sites of Eremias Argus was studied in Ganmao beach,gacha,Siziwang banner,Ulanqab city,Inner Mongolia autonomous region,which belong to a transitional zone between typical steppe and desert steppe,from May to August,2018.43 sites of egg nests were found by tracking the pregnant bird on foot and going into any possible caves.To find out the characteristic of vegetation surrounding of the nest sites cave within 1 m~2 were investigated including plant species composition, average height,coverage and other ecological factors by statistical analysis.Compared with the ecological factor in the absence of nests nearby,we found that most of the nesting habitats of the Eremias argus were sparse vegetation,relatively high topography,more ground cover but less vegetation.
孙涛 毕俊怀 张瑞东 (2019) -
于2018年5-8月,在内蒙古乌兰察布市四子王旗查干补力格苏木山滩嘎查,对该地区分布的丽斑麻蜥(Eremias argus)产卵巢址进行了研究.野外研究采用徒步追踪丽斑麻蜥怀卵母体及全方位查找可疑洞穴的方法,产卵巢以是否找到卵或卵壳来确定,共找到产卵巢址43个.对产卵巢址洞穴周边1 m~2范围内植被的种类组成、平均高度和盖度等生态因子作统计分析,同时统计了产卵巢洞口周边半径5 m范围内鼠洞的数量.取对照样方的生态因子作分析比较,研究自然环境中影响丽斑麻蜥产卵巢址选择的主要因素.结果表明丽斑麻蜥产卵巢址生境多为植被稀疏、地势相对偏高、地表覆盖物较多且较少植被的区域.
Sunje, E. & Bird, D.R. & Jelić, D. (2014) -
The sharp snouted rock lizard, Dalmatolacerta oxycephala, is an endemic lizard of the Balkan Peninsula with 70% of its range found in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H). The herpetological literature surprisingly yields scarce localized data. In this paper we summarize most, if not all, records found in literature, data from museum collections, our own field surveys and records of field researchers with reliable knowledge of D. oxycephala. All literature and new data are plotted and an updated distribution map for Croatia and B&H is given. The sharp snouted rock lizard occurs continuously over the southern areas of the region with new records increasing the known distribution towards the north and into the high mountainous regions. The species occupies a very wide set of habitats, from rocky shrubs at sea level (on islands) up to rocky mountain cliffs and gorges at 1400 m a.s.l. Overall seasonal activity was highest from April to June with strong affiliation to warm and dry habitats. The species has a large range, it is still very abundant and there is no direct evidence of population decline, therefore its IUCN regional status for Croatia should remain least concerned (LC) and near threatened (NT) for B&H.
Sura, P. (1981) -
Suranjan Karunarathna, D.M S. & Thasun Amarasinghe, A.A. (2011) -
Nilgala Conservation Forest Area (NCFA) is an intermediate zone forest situated in the south east of Sri Lanka. During our four-year study we recorded 70 species of reptiles, which represents about 33% of the total Sri Lankan reptile fauna. This number includes eighteen species that are recorded from the NCFA for the first time and ten nationally threatened species. Ten unidentified species were also recorded during the survey period. The results of this study indicate that the Nilgala forest area supports a rich reptile faunal diversity. Unfortunately, this important forest is threatened by fire, illegal logging, chena cultivation, rubber plantation, granite rock blasting, gem mining and road kills. It should be considered an area of high conservation priority.
Surcouf, J. (1919) -
Surget-Groba, Y. (2002) -
Surget-Groba, Y. & Guillaume, C-P. & Thorpe, R.S. & Kupriyanova, L. & Vogrin, N. & Maslak, R. & Mazzotti, S. & Venczel, M. & Ghira, I. & Odierna, G. & Leontyeva, O. & Monney, J.C. & Smith, N. (2001) -
Surget-Groba, Y. & Heulin, B. & Ghielmi, S. & Guillaume, G-P., & Vogrin, N. (2002) -
The lizard Zootoca vivipara has both oviparous and viviparous populations which belong to distinct clades. This study aims to elucidate the geographic distribution, phylogeography and conservation priority of the oviparous subspecies, Zootoca vivipara carniolica, that has recently been identified in Slovenia. We studied seven Slovenian populations, two northeastern Italian populations and five northwestern Italian populations. The seven cytochrome b haplotypes that we identified from the Slovenian and Italian oviparous populations form a monophyletic basal clade. The high homogeneity of the Slovenian and northeastern Italian populations (nucleotide diversity =0.06%) is a striking contrast with the pattern observed in northwest Italy where each of the five populations studied presents a private haplotype (=1.03%). The results obtained suggest that all the extant lineages of Z. v. carniolica have originated in an Italian refuge. The reproductive and phylogenetic distinctiveness of Z. v. carniolica clearly justifies conservation of its populations, especially in Italy where the highest genetic diversity and the most ancestral haplotype were observed.
Surget-Groba, Y. & Heulin, B. & Guillaume, C.P. & Puky, M. & Semenov, D. & Orlova, V. & Kupriyanova, L. & Ghira, I. & Smajda, B. (2006) -
The evolution of viviparity in squamates has been the focus of much scientific attention in previous years. In par- ticular, the possibility of the transition from viviparity back to oviparity has been the subject of a vigorous debate. Some studies have suggested this reversal is more frequent than previously thought. However, none of them provide conclusive evidence. We investigated this problem by studying the phylogenetic relationships between oviparous and viviparous lineages of the reproductively bimodal lizard species Zootoca vivipara . Our results show that viviparous populations are not monophyletic, and that several evolutionary transitions in parity mode have occurred. The most parsimonious scenario involves a single origin of viviparity followed by a reversal back to oviparity. This is the first study with a strongly supported phylogenetic framework supporting a transition from viviparity to oviparity.
Suttkus, M. (1980) -
Suttkus, M. (1991) -
Suttner, R. (1988) -
Sveegaard, B. & Hansen, I.-L. (1976) -
Sviridenko, E.Y. & Kukushkin, O.V. (2005) -
The new data on the Sand Lizard number and distribution in the Mountainous Crimea are given, inclading data on the south-western portion of the Kerch Peninsula. L. agilis may be numerous even on the high jayla, s (reaches to 20-50 specimen/ 100 m of route) but spatial structure of jayla, s populations has specific peculiarity, aggregation character. South-western and south-eastern limits of L. agilis range in the Mountainous Crimea are specified. On the west this species reaches of the eastern border of Sebastopol, territory, and in the east it reaches neighbourhood of cape Chauda as minimum. L. agilis supposed to be autochtonus element of herpetocomplex in the south-western portion of the Kerch Peninsula.
Sviridenko, Y.Y. & Popov, V.N. (2007) -
Svoboda, B. (1969) -
Swadzba, E. & Khannoon, E.R. & Maslak, R. & Rupik, W. (2016) -
Swadzba, E. & Kowalska, M. & Rupik, W. (2014) -
Swain, R. (1968) -
Information on the pineal blood system of lizards is very limited. In view of a number of recent suggestions that the pineal complex may function in the secretion and/or storage of hormonal material it was considered necessary to obtain further information on the vascular pathways associated with it. A description is provided here of the pineal circulation in Lacerta muralis. This circulation is extensive and provides both an efficient supply to, and drainage from, all parts of the pineal complex. In particular there is an extensive capillary system draining the habenular, posterior, and subcommissural regions. The differences observed between the pineal venous systems of Lacerta muralis, Lacerta viridis, Chalcides tridactylus, Agama cyanogaster, and Varanus niloticus are also recorded. Such differences are restricted to the` drainage systems associated with the dorsal sac and anterior wall of the epiphysis. It is concluded that the abundant pineal vascular system would provide a suitable pathway for removing secretory material from the pineal complex.
Swallow, J.G. & Castilla, A.M. (1996) -
Swiezawska, K. (1949) -
Synenka, K. & Dykyy, I. (2015) -
It was found color variability sand lizard on research during 2013–2014 years on the territory of Ukrainian Roztochia (Lviv region.). The studies were conducted in areas with different habitats. Color variability manifested in the types of color and pattern. It was found individuals of subspecies belonging of the territory. Show the characteristic patterns for L. a. chersonensis and L. a. argus. Also found zone intergradation between subspecies L. a. chersonensis and L. a. exigua. We found two types of aberrations pattern maculata and erythronota. The dependence of L. agilis coloration of environmental conditions, expressed in lizards from different habitats on the territory of research.
Syromyatnikova, E.V. & Doronin, I.V. & Baryshnikov, G.F. (2013) -
е.в. Cыромятникова, и.в. Доронин, г.Ф. барышников (2013) -
Syromyatnikova, E.V. & Doronin, I.V. & Baryshnikov, G.F. (2017) -
Сыромятникова Е.В., Доронин И.В., Барышников Г.Ф. (2017) -
Syromyatnikova, E.V. & Tarasova, M.S. (2024) -
A nearly complete frontal bone of a racerunner lizard (Lacertidae: Eremias) is described from the Lower Pleistocene deposits of the Taurida cave – a famous site of fossil vertebrate fauna in Crimea, north Black Sea region. A comparative study of the frontals in the genus Eremias by micro-CT highlighted a few diagnostic features and suggested that the Eremias from the Taurida cave cannot be attributed to any modern species, including Eremias arguta, which inhabited Crimea currently. The specimen from the Taurida cave represents the first Early Pleistocene record of the genus and the oldest European record of the genus to date. Our data suggests that Eremias dispersed into Crimea already in the Early Pleistocene, not in the Holocene as was suggested earlier. The past range of Eremias in Crimea was wider than today and included midland areas. This record extends the distribution range of Eremias during the Pleistocene.
Sytnik, O.I. (2013) -
The types of structure and abundance of the green lizard settlements are established on the basis of long-term monitoring (15 years) of the populations in the Kanivsky Naturе Reserve. The typology of ecotopes and stations of the species in the Dnieper area of the Central Forest-steppe of Ukraine (the Kiev plateau) is proposed. The anthropogenic transformation of territories and climate change possibly influence the ecological characteristics of the populations.
Szczerbak, M.M. (1960) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1962) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1966) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1969) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1970) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1971) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1972) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1973) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1974) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1975) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1981) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (1982) -
Elements of the herpetofauna are in the author`s opinion of great importance for the zoogeographical division of the Palaearctic region. It is suggested that this region be divided into the following four subregions: 1/ arctic, 2/ boreal Euro-Siberian, 3/ bo- real Himalayan-Manchurian and 4/ Mediterranean-Central-Asiatic.
Szczerbak, N.N. (1989) -
The present paper of N. N. SZCZERBAK was originally published in Russian as `Katalog afrikanskih Jascurok` by the Academy of Sciences, Institute of Zoology, Museum of Zoology, USSR, Kiev (83 pp., 30 maps) in 1975. Lists of synonyms, bibliography, maps and table of contents - all being parts of the original paper - have not been included in this translation which was carried out with the consent of the author by R. GÜNTHER (Berlin) and H. GRILLITSCH (Vienna). The English summary was taken over as provided in the original version. As a SHORT NOTE in this issue of HERPETOZOA subsequent to the translation comments and updated addenda by W. MAYER are provided indicated by [aa* bb* etc.] in the text.
Szczerbak, N.N. (2003) -
Szczerbak, N.N. (2018) -
Szczerbak, N.N. & Neruchev, V.V. & Okulova, N.M. & Orlova V.F. (1993) -
Szczerbak, N.N. & Szczerban, M.I. (1980) -
Szczerbak, N.N. & Vashetko, E.V. (1973) -
Székely, G. & Matesz, C (2004) -
Cobaltic-lysine complex compound was used to label cranial nerves of the ventrolateral (branchiomotor) and dorsomedial (somatomotor) nuclear columns in the sand lizard, Lacerta agilis. The dendritic arborizations and axonal trajectories of neurons of the respective nuclei were reconstructed from serial sections. A fairly uniform neuronal morphology was found in the nuclei of the ventrolateral column: a spindle-shaped perikaryon gave rise to dorsomedial and ventrolateral dendritic trees, the latter arborizing in a characteristic broomlike manner within a narrow region in the lateral white matter. Axons of ail neurons converged upon the medial longitudinal fasciculus and after making a hairpin turn formed the corresponding motor roots. A group of small neurons constituted a separate subnucleus within the V motor nucleus. The VII and IX nuclei were fused into a single nuclear complex. The nucleus ambiguus was found dorsal to the XII nucleus and lateral to the dorsal vagal nucleus. The latter nucleus extended rostrally to the caudal pole of the VI nucleus, and its neurons sent axons to the VII, IX, and X nerves. The term dorsal visceromotor column designates the extended dorsal vagal nucleus. A number of small polygonal neurons lying scattered in the lateral part of the medulla were labeled via the VII, IX, and X nerves. This loose aggregate of labeled neurons was termed the lateral visceromotor area. On the basis of nuclear topography and cellular morphology, the existence of a bulbar XI nucleus was excluded. Three different types of neurons could be distinguished in the dorsomedial nuclear column. Neurons with oval or spherical perikarya and radially oriented dendrites constituted the nuclei innervating external eye muscles. Except for the IV nucleus, axons followed a ventral trajectory. The accessory VI nucleus was composed of a second type of neuron with elongated soma and dorsoventral dendrite orientation; the dorsally directed axon turned ventrally at the VI nucleus. The XII nucleus contains a third type of neuron with strongly decussating dendrites. The distinct differences in the neuronal morphology did not support the classical assumption that all of the nuclei of the dorsomedial motor column supply muscles derived from somitic mesoderm. Sensory fibers of the trigeminal nerve formed the familiar spinal tract, which partially decussated in the medullospinal transition zone and could be followed as far as the lumbar segments on the ipsilateral side of the spinal cord. Neurons of the mesencephalic root of the trigeminal nerve were localized in the optic tectum; their descending fibers joined the medial aspect of the spinal tract. A number of sites, including the V motor nucleus, received terminating collaterals. The solitary tract received primary afferent fibers from the VII, IX, and X nerves. All three components could be followed to the commissura infima. At the level of the VII nucleus, a number of fiber bundles form the tractus solitarius projected to the spinal trigeminal nucleus. Conversely, the nucleus of the solitary tract received a large contingent of fibers from the spinal trigeminal tract.
Szirovicza, L. & López, P. & Kopena, R. & Benkö, M. & Martin, J. & Penzes, J.J. (2016) -
Here, we report the results of a large-scale PCR survey on the prevalence and diversity of adenoviruses (AdVs) in samples collected randomly from free-living reptiles. On the territories of the Guadarrama Mountains National Park in Central Spain and of the Chafarinas Islands in North Africa, cloacal swabs were taken from 318 specimens of eight native species representing five squamate reptilian families. The healthy-looking animals had been captured temporarily for physiological and ethological examinations, after which they were released. We found 22 AdV-positive samples in representatives of three species, all from Central Spain. Sequence analysis of the PCR products revealed the existence of three hitherto unknown AdVs in 11 Carpetane rock lizards (Iberolacerta cyreni), nine Iberian worm lizards (Blanus cinereus), and two Iberian green lizards (Lacerta schreiberi), respectively. Phylogeny inference showed every novel putative virus to be a member of the genus Atadenovirus. This is the very first description of the occurrence of AdVs in amphisbaenian and lacertid hosts. Unlike all squamate atadenoviruses examined previously, two of the novel putative AdVs had A+T rich DNA, a feature generally deemed to mirror previous host switch events. Our results shed new light on the diversity and evolution of atadenoviruses.
Szücs, B. & Horváth, G.F. & Purger, J.J. (2022) -
The lowland populations of the viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara in the Carpathian Basin occur in cold, marshy relict habitats. In one of the largest wetlands in Hungary, Kis-Balaton, in 2016 its presence was confirmed by catching an individual with a small mammal live-trap. This new record is significant, since the nearest known sites of occurrence are at great distance and it is situated between the lowland viviparous populations of the north-northeast and the oviparous populations of the south (in Croatia).
Szyndlar, Z. (1980) -
The Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis, Fig. 6) is common and occurs mainly in grassland and river-valleys in the lowest parts of the Bieszczady Mts. However, it is also found higher, on south mountain-sides, well exposed to the sun, up to a high of 1000 m above sea level. The Viviparous Lizard (Lacerta vivipara, Fig. 7) is very common in the Bieszczady Mts,, where it inhabits mainly mountain meadows and, moreover, lower situated areas, for example roadsides or grounds adjoining a forest. It occurs most numerously in the mountain meadows reaching a considerable density in some places.
Szyndlar, Z. (1984) -
Tabachishin, V.G. (2003) -
Tabachishin, V.G. (2014) -
Tabachishin, V.G. & Kaybeleva, E.I. & Zavialov, E.V. (2009) -
The results of our chromosome studies on Eremias arguta from the Samara and Saratov regions are presented. The diploid set of E. arguta from the Volga populations surveyed has been found to include 38 chromosomes: 2n = 38, NF = 38. The female and male karyotype structures are 2n = 35M + 3m and 2n = 36M + 2m, respectively. The karyotype of E. arguta from the Saratov and Samara regions is shown to be similar to the earlier described chromosome sets of the subspecies E. a. deserti. At the same time, the Saratov E. a. deserti differ from E. arguta from the Samara region by the number of pairs of NO-carrying chromosomes, which in the Saratov E. arguta are found on the 2nd, 4th, and 7th chromosome pairs, and in the Samara ones – on the 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 9th pairs.
Tabachishin, V.G. & Savialov, E.V. (1998) -
Tabachishin, V.G. & Shlyakhtin, G.V. & Zavialov, E.V. (1996) -
Tabachishin, V.G. & Yermokhin, M.V. (2020) -
On the territory of the Saratov region, the populations of viviparous lizards mainly inhabit the river val- leys of the Don basin. Most populations were found along the sides of lake basins. In the conditions of the drying up of floodplain lakes, some populations have degraded while the others have moved to river-bed biotopes. The reduction in the number of local populations has led to their increased disconnection. The disconnection of populations in the marginal areas of the habitat determines the need to preserve the pro- tected status of the species in the Red Data book of the Saratov region.
Табачишин, В.Г. & Ермохин, М.В. (2020) -
На территории Саратовской области популяции ящерицы живородящей населяют в основном долины рек бассейна Дона. Большинство популяций обнаружено по бортам озёрных котловин. В условиях пересыхания пойменных озёр часть популяций деградирована, а другие сместились в прирусловые биотопы рек. Сокращение числа локальных популяций привело к увеличению их разобщенности. Разрозненность популяций в окраинных участках ареала определяет необходимость сохранения охранного статуса вида в «Красной книге Саратовской области».
Tabachishin, V.G. & Yermokhin, M.V. (2022) -
An analysis was made of the influence of the biotope temperature regime on the body temperature of Lacerta agilis in local populations of the floodplain of the middle reaches of the Khoper river (Saratov region). The rectal body temperature in active L. agilis out-side their shelters was shown to be 18.3–35.1°С and 18.2–34.8°С for males and females, respectively. The rectal temperature of L. agilis males and females in the spring period does not differ significantly. The optimal body temperature of L. agilis, which the activity of individuals is observed at, should be considered as 24.2–33.0°C.
Tabachishin, V.G. & Zavialov, E.V. & Shlyakhtin, G.V. (2000) -
Tabachishin, V.G. & Zavialov, E.V. & Tabachishina, I. (2006) -
Tabachishin, V.G. & Zavialov, E.V. & Tabachishina, I.E. (2006) -
The modern distribution of Eremias arguta is considered. The species is shown to be represented by stable populations on a vast territory of the Volga region (Saratov and Samara regions) at present, its habitat there is mosaic and the abundance is comparable with that at the central part of the whole habitat. In view of the gradual average annual temperature elevation trend within the territory under study and some stabilization of moisture indices, a decrease in abundance and a shift south of the northern habitat boundary should be expected. Since the peripheral settlements of E. arguta in the Volga region are of separate nature, the species is recommended to enter the Red Books of the Saratov and Samara regions.
Стальмакова В.А. (2006) -
Альбинос степной черепахи (Agrionemys horsfleldi (Gray, 1844)) был найден автором 17 апреля 1975 г. в предгорьях хребта Ренин-Тау, в 20 км к юго-востоку от г. Душанбе на высоте около 1200 м над уровнем моря. До этого автор с 1957 г. участвовал в полевых работах по изучению мелких наземных позвоночных, в том числе и черепах, в районах, где численность этого вида весьма велика, но среди многих тысяч просмотренных особей ни одного альбиноса не встретилось. Не было альбиносов и среди 40000 черепах, отловленных в Юго-Западном Таджикистане заготовителями для отправки их за границу. В публикациях, посвященых среднеазиатской черепахе, и в работах об альбиносах у позвоночных животных (Hensley, 1959; Arnoldt, 1980; Bechtel, 1995;) найти сообщений об альбиносах этого вида нам не удалось. По-видимому, это первая находка альбиноса среднеазиатской черепахи.
Tabachishin, V.G. & Zavialov, E.V. & Zhdokova, M.K. (2008) -
The modern distribution of Eremias velox (Pallas, 1771) is considered. E. velox is shown to be represented now by rather stable populations witrhin a vast territory of the Lower-Volga region and adjacent territories within Republic Kalmykia and the Astrakhan region, its habitat being of a mosaic character. In view of isolation of the peripheral settlements of E. velox in the territory under survey, the species should be entered in the regional Red Books.
Табачишин В.Г., Завьялов Е.В., Ждокова М.К. (2008) -
Рассматривается современное распространение быстрой ящурки. Показано, что на обширной территории нижневолжского региона и сопредельных территориях в пределах Республики Калмыкия и Астраханской области ящурка представлена в настоящее время относительно стабильными популяциями, её ареал здесь носит мозаичный характер. Учитывая разрозненность окраинных поселений быстрой ящурки на исследуемой территории, рекомендуется внесение вида в региональные Красные книги
Tabachisin, E.V. & Zavialov, E.V. & Karmyshev, Yu.V. (2005) -
The spatial distribution, daily activity and some aspects of breeding of Podarcis taurica in the conditions of the Big Crimean Canyon are considered. The biggest eggs of an elongated shape are characteristic of four-egg layings; they are apparently laid by females of an optimal reproductive age.
Tabatschischin, W.G. & Sawjalow, E.W. & Tabatschischina, I.E. (2006) -
Tabatschischin, W.G. & Tabatsachisachina, I.E. & Sawjalow, E.W. (2003) -
Taddei, A. (1949) -
Auctor scrutatur- 1273 lacertas e paeninsula et insulis Italiciis (praetermissis insulis Etruscis, de quarum lacertis iam antea disseruerat), in quibus undecim subspecies ante ignotas invenit; de nonnullarum distributione disputat; et singulas species et subspecies accurate describit, rationem quamdam dicotomicam etiam tradens, qua facilius recognosci possint.
Taddei, A. (1950) -
Taddei, A. (1951) -
Taddei, A. (1952) -
Taddei, A. (1953) -
Taddei, C. (1972) -
Taddei, C. & Barsacchi Pilone, G. & De Miranda, C. & Della Maggesa, F. (1972) -
Tadevosyan, T.L. (2003) -
Tadevosyan, T.L. (2007) -
Composition and density of vegetation are important habitat quality indicators for reptiles. The goal of this note was to determine dominant plant species, optimal size and density in habitats of syntopic lizards in the Goravan Sands Sanctuary. The role of vegetation variables was considered in relation to differences in thermoregulation of syntopic Phrynocephalus persicus, Eremias pleskei, and Eremias strauchi.Microhabitats of P. persicus differed from that of E. pleskei and of E. strauchi by a relatively frequent encounter of the plant Achillea tenuifolia, which is considered as potential habitat quality indicator. Phrynocephalus persicus generally used microhabitats with sparser vegetation. It is supposed that the excessive growth of shading vegetation can have a more negative impact on P. persicus than on E. pleskei.
Taggart, T.W. (2004) -
Takeda, N. & Ota, H. (1996) -
A new grass lizard, Takydromus toyamai, is described from the Miyako Island Group, Ryukyu Archipelago. The Miyako population has been considered to be conspecific with T. smaragdinus from the Okinawa, Amami, and Tokara Groups of the archipelago, but it is differentiated from populations of these three island groups by having a greater number of ventral rows (eight) and distinctly keeled temporal scales, and in lacking a white ventrolateral line on head and body. The definition of T. smaragdinus is revised accordingly and a lectotype is designated. A dichotomous key is provided for the Japanese and Taiwanese species of the genus Takydromus.
Takehana, Y. & Matsuda, Y. & Ikuta, J. & Kryukov, A.P. & Sakaizumi, M. (2016) -
We investigated the genetic population structure of the Japanese grass lizard, Takydromus tachydromoides, based on polymerase chain reaction—restriction fragment length polymorphisms (PCR-RFLPs) and DNA sequence analyses of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. The PCR-RFLP analysis of 163 specimens collected from the main islands of Japan and the adjacent islands identified a total of 25 mitochondrial haplotypes (mitotypes). The phylogeny of the mitotypes revealed that Osumi and Tokara Island populations were remarkably diverged from all other populations on the main islands of Japan. Furthermore, several regional groups were also recognized at the western part of Japan, namely mitotype groups in Kyushu, those in the western Honshu, and those in the central Honshu and Shikoku. In contrast, little genetic diversity was observed throughout eastern Japan. The regional genetic differentiation and recent range expansion of this species are considered to be associated with past geological events and climate changes.
Takeishi, M. (1987) -
Growth of Takydromus tachydromoides was studied at Fukuoka in southwestern Japan. From the data of growth in SVL, the lizards were classified into three age classes. The growth rate of SVL did not differ between sexes. The mean body weight of adult lizards differed significantly between sexes, but SVL did not.
Takeishi, M. & Ono, Y. (1986) -
The home range of Takydromus tachydromoides was studied in a grassland area from April 1977 to November 1978. The mean size of home range did not differ markedly between sexes; 136.5 m2 for males and 130.8 m2 for females. Home ranges of adults overlapped greatly in each sex, and the lizard was considered to be non-territorial. Individuals showed return movement to a definite area (sleeping site) within the home range, and the home range did not shift within a year or between years. Characteristics of the home range of this grassland-inhabiting lizard were discussed in relation to resource abundance and predation pressure.
Takenaka, S. (1978) -
Takenaka, S. (1979) -
Takenaka, S. (1980) -
A field study of the Japanese grass lizard Takydromus tachydromoides was carried out at Mito in central Japan. The mean growth rate of yearling females was highest during late spring. They grew little during the reproductive season (mid-summer), but resumed growth somewhat in late summer. Most energy is apparently directed to body growth in yearling females before the first reproduction. Thereafter most energy is allocated to reproduction.
Takenaka, S. (1981) -
Reproduction in females of the kanahebi lizard, Takydromus tachydromoides, was studied in Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture. Yearling females larger than 40mm SVL and not reproductive early in the reproductive season (April-May) might be judged to be mature because their largest unyolked follicles were the same size as those of reproductive females (1.3mm or larger). Most yearlings bred once or twice late in the reproductive season (June-July), and they had a mean clutch size of 3.0. Older females reproduced from April through July, and they had a mean clutch size of 4.2 for the first clutch and of 4.0 for the second and third. In this population the mean dry weight of oviducal eggs was 84mg, and the mean ratio of clutch weight to body weight was 0.729.
Takenaka, S. (1986) -
Takenaka, S. (1989) -
Takenaka, S. (1991) -
A female of Lacerta vivipara from Hokkaido laid five baby lizards enclosed in transparent membranes on 8 July 1989. The mean snout-vent length of the hatchlings was 22mm, and the mean mass was 0.20g. This was the first confirmation of the viviparity of L. vivipara from Hokkaido, Japan.
Takenaka, S. (2006) -
竹中 践 (2006) -
Takeuchi, H. & Takeuchi, M. & Hikida, T. (2013) -
Genetic diversity in the Japanese population of Zootoca vivipara was investigated using partial sequences of mitochondrial cytochrome b (706 bp) gene for 24 individuals from three sites. The phylogenetic status of the Japanese population was also examined using data from the current and previous studies. Only one haplotype was recognized in the Japanese population, which was different by only one nucleotide from the Russian and Belarusian populations. Individuals from disparate regions (>7000 km apart) quite rarely share such closely related haplotypes. From the results of the current and previous studies, members of the continental population seem to have invaded Hokkaido via the land bridge during the latest Pleistocene glaciation.
Talbi, R. (2007) -
Talbi, R. & Izhaki, I. (2016) -
Mediterranean habitats in the southern Levant have been exposed to various anthropogenic activities since the beginning on the Holocene. Past traditional human activities such as grazing, cutting and fire have shaped the landscape and modified the ecology of plant and animal species. These activities have changed in recent decades due to modernization processes and management policies. Mediterranean landscapes in northern Israel demonstrate well the modifications within the vegetation structure of habitats, usually from open to close vegetation shape. These processes may help us in understanding the indirect effects of habitat structure on fauna diversity, and to promote prescribed management towards species conservation. Here, we examined the ecology of a specialist and locally endangered green lizard (Lacerta media israelica) that became either extremely rare or extinct throughout most of its historically known distribution in the mountainous woodlands of the country. Field surveys of the green lizard and habitat structure analysis were performed in various sites in the Carmel, Galilee and Golan mountains since 2003 until 2015. Over 800 observations were recorded, mostly in the Upper Galilee and the Golan Heights, in addition to remnant sub-populations in the Carmel and Lower Galilee mountains. Lizards significantly preferred sites with heterogeneous vegetation structure, composed of woods, shrubs and meadows (maquis-garrigue). Such habitats are result of anthropogenic activity that controls the woody vegetation (grazing, cutting, agriculture and recreation sites). Traditional activity has dominated Mediterranean landscapes in the past thus increasing the complexity of habitats and perhaps influencing on the typical high species diversity. Our results suggest that recent modifications in habitat structure due to modern management have critically reduced the historical distribution of the studied species. The significant relationship between habitat heterogeneity in disturbed sites and the presence of green lizards emphasizes the need for suitable management in relatively undisturbed Mediterranean environments.
Talbi, R. & Izhaki, I. & Bar-Massada, A. (2018) -
Talvi, T. (1992) -
Tamar, K. & Carranza, S. & Bosch, H. in den & Sindaco, R. & Moravec, J. & Meiri, S. (2015) -
The Levant region witnessed dramatic tectonic events and climatic fluctuations that changed the historical landscape of the area and consequently influenced the cladogenesis and distribution of the local biota. In this study we use information from two mitochondrial and two nuclear genes and species delimitation methods in order to obtain the first robust time-calibrated molecular phylogeny of the Levantine rock lizards of the genus Phoenicolacerta.We sampled from across its distributional range with the aim to clarify its systematics, biogeography and evolution. Our results suggest that the genus includes two well-supported clades, one comprising solely the montane species Phoenicolacerta kulzeri, and the other including the three remaining species, the relatively widespread, P. laevis, the Syrian-Turkish P. cyanisparsa and the Cypriot endemic P. troodica. We found that both P. laevis and P. cyanisparsa are not monophyletic, as the Turkish populations of P. laevis branch within P. cyanisparsa. We found high levels of undescribed diversity within P. laevis which necessitate a thorough revision. We suggest that Phoenicolacerta started radiating during the mid-late Miocene, and that both vicariance and dispersal events shaped the diversification and distribution of the genus concomitantly with the formation of major geological structures and climatic fluctuations in the Levant. These results highlight the region as an important center of speciation, contributing to the species diversity of the eastern Mediterranean.
Tamar, K. & Carranza, S. & Moravec, J. & Sindaco, R. & Trape, S. & Meiri, S. (2013) -
The Old World fringe-fingered lizards of the genus Acanthodactylus is the most species rich genus in the Lacertidae currently constituting 41 recognized species. Acanthodactylus are ground dwelling, small to medium sized lizards which usually occur in a wide variety of dry habitats. They range from the Iberian Peninsula, through the Sahara and the Sahel, the Middle East, Arabian Peninsula and Cyprus to NW India. The genus is morphologically divided into 8-10 species groups; however, because of great morphological variability among species, the taxonomic status and position of some species is unclear, and the phylogeny of this group is far from resolved. We examined the phylogenetic relationships of the genus based on sequences from 290 individuals representing 36 species from all known species groups. We sequenced 2,423 bp from two mitochondrial (12S rRNA, Cytb) and three nuclear (MC1R, ACM4, c-mos) genes. Our results suggest that the genus is divided into three well-supported clades: Clade A includes 14 species as representatives of the micropholis, grandis, blanfordi, cantoris, opheodurus and boskianus species groups. Clade B includes 14 species of the tristrami, erythrurus and pardalis species groups, and clade C includes the eight species of the scutellatus species group. The phylogenetic analyses support much of the previous studies on the genus and reveal new relationships that require further examination.
Tamar, K. & Carranza, S. & Sindaco, R. & Moravec, J. & Meiri, S: (2014) -
Acanthodactylus is a widespread lacertid genus occurring from the Iberian Peninsula and western North Africa to western India including the Middle East, Cyprus, and the Arabian Peninsula. The genus is in dire need of a taxonomic revision, and the phylogenetic relationships amongst and within its species remain unclear. In particular, the taxonomy and relationship of the allopatric, narrow-ranged Acanthodactylus schreiberi and its close relative, the widespread Acanthodactylus boskianus asper, are poorly understood. We estimated the phylogenetic and phylogeographical structure of A. schreiberi across its distribution range, and evaluated its relationships to A. b. asper, using mitochondrial and nuclear data. The phylogenetic results indicate that both species are paraphyletic, with A. schreiberi nested within A. b. asper, and the subspecies A. schreiberi syriacus nested within a distinct lineage of A. b. asper. We suggest that the group is in need of a taxonomic revision because the identified lineages and genetic diversity are incongruent with the currently recognized taxonomy. We tentatively conclude that A. schreiberi is restricted to Cyprus and Turkey, reduced to a single form, and that the populations in Lebanon and Israel belong to A. b. asper.
Tamar, K. & Carranza, S. & Sindaco, R. & Moravec, J. & Trape, J.-F. & Meiri, S. (2016) -
Acanthodactylus lizards are among the most diverse and widespread diurnal reptiles in the arid regions spanning from North Africa across to western India. Acanthodactylus constitutes the most species-rich genus in the family Lacertidae, with over 40 recognized species inhabiting a wide variety of dry habitats. The genus has seldom undergone taxonomic revisions, and although there are a number of described species and species-groups, their boundaries as well as their interspecific relationships are largely unresolved. We constructed a multilocus phylogeny, combining data from two mitochondrial (12S, cytb) and three nuclear (MC1R, ACM4, c-mos) markers for 302 individuals belonging to 36 known species, providing the first large-scale time-calibrated molecular phylogeny of the genus. We evaluated phylogenetic relationships between and within species-groups, and assessed Acanthodactylus biogeography across its known range. Acanthodactylus cladogenesis is estimated to have originated in Africa due to vicariance and dispersal events from the Oligocene onwards. Radiation started with the separation into three clades: the Western and scutellatus clades largely distributed in North Africa, and the Eastern clade occurring mostly from Arabia to south-west Asia. Most Acanthodactylus species diverged during the Miocene, possibly as a result of regional geological instability and climatic changes. We support most of the current taxonomic classifications and phylogenetic relationships, and provide genetic validity for most species. We reveal a new distinct blanfordii species-group, suggest new phylogenetic positions (A. hardyi, A. masirae), and synonymize several species and subspecies (A. lineomaculatus, A. boskianus khattensis and A. b. nigeriensis) with their phylogenetically closely-related species. We recommend a thorough systematic revision of taxa exhibiting high levels of intraspecific variability as well as clear evidence of phylogenetic complexity such as A. guineensis, A. grandis, A. dumerilii, and A. senegalensis and the pardalis and erythrurus species-groups.
Tamar, K. & Geniez, P. & Brito, J.P. & Crochet, P-A. (2017) -
Recent molecular phylogenies of the Acanthodactylus pardalis species-group have revealed a deep genetic divergence within the nominal species A. busacki from north-west Africa. The species is phylogenetically separated into northern and southern lineages, which correspond to a previously observed morphological differentiation between the northern and southern populations of this species. Based on morphological comparisons of the type material and location of the type locality, the nomen Acanthodactylus busacki SALVADOR, 1982 is assigned here to the southern lineage, known from the northern Saharan Atlantic coastal desert. The northern lineage, described here as Acanthodactylus margaritae sp. nov., is prominently characterized by weakly keeled dorsal scales and a characteristic colour pattern. The new species is endemic to Morocco and confined to arid and semi-arid bioclimatic areas between the High Atlas and Anti-Atlas Mountains, from around Tamri in the north to Tiznit in the south and the Souss valley in the east.
Tamar, K. & Maza, E. & Meiri, S. (2013) -
Tamarind, D.L. (1975) -
Tamás, S. (2009) -
During the research period we analysed 114 samples, collected from 41 locality in Satu Mare County between 1998 and 2004 (6 years of research). The collecting sites were the same in every year of the re seach. From the processed – dissected 7253 pellets were identified 28927 prey items belonging to 63 species and representing 43 genus. Small mammals were the main prey in the barn owl`s diet, belonging to following families: microtidae, muridae and soricidae. These taxons represent the major part of barn owl`s diet both in the total number of captured prey items and the prey biomass. M. arvalis was an important prey item in the barn owl`s diet and it seems to be an important regulating factor in the proportional representations of prey items. The mosaic-like, heterogeneous habitats and the low level of dietary specialization may explain probably the high diversity of barn owl`s diet composition in Satu Mare Cou nty. Beside the dominant prey species M. arvalis other important were: Apodemus agrarius, Apodemus sylvaticus, Mus musculus, Sorex araneus, Sorex minutus, Crocidura leucodon, Crocidura suaveolens. Bats were present fequently with low number in the diet of barn owl. Birds were al ways consumed in low number by barn owl, representing an important alternative food so urces especially during winter season. The most frequent prey species was the sparrow, Passer domesticus. The number of amphibians were extremly low in the barn owl`s diet and just one reptile species was present in the pellets, Lacerta agilis . Mammal species like Rattus sp., Arvicola terrestris or Talpa europea were present in the barn owl`s diet in winter season when food source is scarce or because the captured preys were sick or too weak to fight.
Tamez, V. (2016) -
As ecological conditions are transformed by a changing global climate, it is becoming increasingly essential to understand the vulnerability and response of organisms to these altered environmental circumstances. Whereas some strides have been made in understanding the effects of global climate change on endotherms, woefully little is known about ectotherms, which constitute the bulk of the diversity of species in natural ecosystems. Though ectothermic organisms can compensate for fluctuations in the thermal environment by modifying their behavior and physiology, these adjustments likely represent a tradeoff between maintaining an optimal body temperature and allocating energy to other important life history processes (i.e. foraging, anti-predator behaviors and mate-finding). While global climate change is likely to affect many aspects of a species’ life history and ecology (e.g. susceptibility to disease, food availability, etc.) some of the most direct impacts are likely to come from a possible mismatch between newly prevailing thermal conditions and the species’ thermal preferences. We investigated the thermal biology of four ecologically important reptile species in the Central Aegean Sea (Greece): Podarcis erhardii (Linnaeus 1756, Lacertidae), Laudakia stellio (Linnaeus 1758, Agamidae), Mediodactylus kotschyi (Steindachner 1870, Gekkonidae), and Hemidactylus turcicus (Linnaeus 1758, Gekkonidae). We determined the preferred body temperature for each species using a controlled thermal gradient in the lab. Combining these average thermal preferences with morphological measurements, field body temperatures, and microhabitat characteristics, our work sheds light on the thermal ecology of each species.
Tammaro, S. & Simionello, P. & Ristoratore, F. & Coppola, U. & Scudiero, R. & Motta, C.M. (2016) -
In this study, our aim was to determine whether caspase 3 plays a role, during previtellogenesis, in the ovarian follicular epithelium of the lizard Podarcis sicula. We investigated the presence and localization of proform and active caspase 3 by enzyme assay, Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. In parallel, a fragment of caspase 3 was cloned for the first time in this species, sequenced and used for in situ hybridization to localize messengers and analysed by a phylogenetic survey to shed light on its homology with reptilian caspases. Results demonstrated that: (1) the follicle cells expressed a caspase of the 3/7 group and the mRNA for caspase 3 was transcribed in the stem phase and was completely translated during cell differentiation; (2) the proform protein was stored during the differentiated (nurse) stage and activated at the end of previtellogenesis provoking the degeneration of cells; (3) the predicted protein sequence, although partial, had a strong similarity with the known reptilian caspases 3. The epithelial cells of the ovarian follicle, therefore, do not employ caspase 3 during the nurse stage but, instead, prepare for apoptosis long before the process actually begins. The relevance of this strategy is discussed.
Tammaro, S. & Simoniello, P. & Filosa, S. & Motta, C.M. (2007) -
Pyriforms are ovarian follicle nurse cells that undergo apoptosis at the end of previtellogenesis and are completely eliminated by the epithelium. This event is accompanied by the active transfer of organelles and macromolecules to the oocyte via an intercellular bridge. Since it would be a nonsense for damaged mitochondria to reach the oocyte, we have postulated that pyriform cells have adapted their apoptotic machinery to prevent mitochondrial degradation. To verify this hypothesis, we have studied mitochondrial morphology and functionality during follicle cell regression. Cytological and biochemical evidence indicates that mitochondria in pyriforms maintain their size, organization and membrane potential. This clearly indicates that they are not involved in apoptosis signalling/progression. This block would favour both the oocyte, by increasing the pool of organelles available from follicle cells, and also the regressing pyriforms, by maintaining the energy resources required for completion of their nurse function. The block is probably attributable to an over-expression of Bcl-2 and might be carried out by sequestering cytochrome c inside the organelles. As demonstrated by in vitro experiments, the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway can be activated by stress induction, such as serum deprivation, but not following physiological pro-apoptotic signalling, such as treatment with gonadotrophin-releasing hormone.
Tammaro, S. & Simoniello, P. & Filosa, S. & Motta, C.M. (2008) -
We have investigated whether gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is involved in triggering the apoptotic death of pyriforms, the nurse cells that cooperate in oocyte growth during mid- to late previtellogenesis in the lizard Podarcis sicula. Our immunocytochemical analyses demonstrate that pyriforms express GnRH receptors and that, in late previtellogenesis, they are up-regulated by cGnRH II. The hormone however does not trigger receptor synthesis and activation, events that therefore must be under the control of other regulatory factors. Our results also indicate that in vitro treatment of pyriforms with cGnRH II induces DNAse I activation and DNA laddering, clear cytological evidence of apoptosis, but not Fas/Fas-L synthesis or caspase activation. We conclude that cGnRH II is pro-apoptotic to pyriform cells and that it exerts its effects by activating an alternative cell death pathway, probably involving calcium as first messenger and DNase I as first executioner.
Tammaro, S. & Simoniello, P. & Ristoratore, F. & Coppola, U. & Scudiero, R. & Motta, C.M. (2017) -
Tang, X. & Yue, F. & He, J,. & Wang, N. & Ma, M. & Mo, J. & Chen, Q. (2013) -
A viviparous lizard, Eremias multiocellata, was used to investigate the possible sexual and ontogeneticeffects on selected body temperature, thermal tolerance range and the thermal dependence of locomotorperformance. We show that adults are sexually dimorphic and males have larger bodies and heads thanfemales. Adults selected higher body temperatures (34.5 vs. 32.4◦C) and could tolerate a broader rangeof body temperatures (8.1–46.8 vs. 9.1–43.1◦C) than juveniles. The sprint speed and maximum sprintdistance increased with temperature from 21◦C to 33◦C, but decreased at 36◦C and 39◦C in both juvenilesand adults. Adults ran faster and longer than juveniles at each tested temperature. Adult locomotor performance was not correlated with snout–vent length (SVL) or sex, and sprint speed was positivelycorrelated with hindlimb length. Juvenile locomotor performance was positively correlated with bothSVL and hindlimb length. The ontogenetic variation in selected body temperature, thermal toleranceand locomotor performance in E. multiocellata suggests that the effects of morphology on temperatureselection and locomotor performance vary at different ontogenetic stages.
Tang, X.-L. & Yue, F. & Yan, X.-F. & Zhang, D.-J. & Xin, Y. & Wang, C. & Chen, Q. (2012) -
Temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD) is well studied in many species of reptiles, but little is known on how geographic distribution and altitude affect the sex ratio. In the present study, we focused on a population of a viviparous lizard with TSD (Eremias multiocellata) that lives at high altitudes (≈2900 m) in Tianzhu, Gansu province, China. Gestation temperature had a notable effect on the offspring sex ratio, gestation period, and the mother`s body mass. The mothers produced female biased offspring at 25 °C but male biased offspring at 35 °C. All female lizards lost weight during pregnancy, and the least loss of the body mass was observed at 31 °C. The gestation period increased in a non-linear fashion as ambient temperature was reduced. Average litter size was elevated with an increase of gestation temperatures, reached a maximum at 31 °C, and then declined at 35 °C. Compared with a previous study on a Minqin population which lives at a lower altitude (≈1400 m) and warmer climate, the present study obtained a less skewed sex ratio of offspring in the Tianzhu population. Geographic variations also affected offspring morphology between the two populations; females collected from Tianzhu produced larger litters but with a smaller body weight of offspring. These differences may be caused by the adaptive response to the cool climatic and high-altitude environmental conditions.
Tang, X.-S. & Lu, S.-Q. & Chou, W.-H. (2007) -
The Chung-an ground lizard, Takydromus sylvaticus, long known only from five females collected in Fujian Province of China, was recently found in Anhui Province of the country. The newly collected specimens included the first male specimens (n=7), in which the tail bases were stouter than in conspecific females. Ventral scales in these males were invariably keeled, whereas in females those forming the four median rows were smooth. Females had more dorsal scales (47–48) than males (42–43) in the median longitudinal row between axilla and groin. Takydromus sylvaticus differed from the closely related T. dorsalis in having more dorsal scales in the median longitudinal row between axilla and groin (42–48 versus 32–40, respectively), more rows of large dorsal scales between the hind legs (10 versus 7–8, respectively), shorter hind legs, two distinct white longitudinal stripes on each side of the body, and no black stripe in the preocular and postocular regions. The number of transverse rows of ventral scales between collar and femoral pores in T. sylvaticus(26–28) was larger, but with a slight overlap, than that in T. dorsalis (22–26). Ecological observations on T. sylvaticus were also documented.
Tang, X.-S. & Nie, L.-W. (2009) -
Tang, X.L. & Yue, F. & Zhang, D.J. & Yan, X.F. & Yin, Y. & Wang, C. & Chen, Q. (2012) -
Tang, X.S. & Chen, J.M. & Huang, S. (2014) -
The Chung-an ground lizard Takydromus sylvaticus is an endemic and long-lost reptile species in China. In this study, its mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) sequence was firstly determined by long PCR and primer walking methods. The genome is 17,838 bp long and contains 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes and 2 main noncoding regions (the control region and the putative L-strand replication origin). The gene order and contents in the T. sylvaticus mitogenome is identical to that found in typical vertebrates, suggesting that it represents an ancestral arrangement. Within the control region, typical conserved domains and distinct repeat regions were identified.
Tanis, K. (2009) -
Tao, S. B. & Cheng, K. & Li, X. & Han, X. & Wang, J. & Zheng, R. & Sun, (2021) -
Climate change poses different threats to animals across latitudes. Tropical species have been proposed to be more vulnerable to climate change. However, the responses of animals from tropical mountains to thermal variation and climate change have been scarcely studied. Here, we investigated the thermal biology traits of a tropical lizard (Takydromus kuehnei) distributed at high elevations (>950 m) and evaluated the vulnerabilities of T. kuehnei by thermal biology traits, thermal safety margin, and thermoregulatory effectiveness. The average active body temperatures of T. kuehnei in the field were 26.28_C and 30.65_C in April and June, respectively. The selected body temperature was 33.23_C, and the optimal temperature for locomotion was 30.60_C. The critical thermal minimum and critical thermal maximum temperatures were 4.79_C and 43.37_C, respectively. Accordingly, the thermal safety margin (1.23_C) and thermoregulatory effectiveness (1.23_C) predicted that T. kuehnei distributed in tropical mountains were not significantly depressed by environmental temperatures. This study implies that high-elevation species in tropical regions may not be severely threatened by ongoing climate change and highlights the importance of thermal biology traits in evaluating the vulnerability of species to climate change.
Tappe, W. (1868) -
Tarassovskaja, N.E. & Zhumabekova, B.K. (2013) -
Tarkhnishvili, A. & Gavashelishvili, A. & Avaliani, A. & Murtskhvaladze, M. & Mumladze, L. (2010) -
We compared the distributions, abundances and ecological requirements of parthenogenetic lizard Darevskia ‘dahli’ and its bisexual progenitors, D. portschinskii and D. mixta, in Georgia. We developed a regression model relating the species abundances with the distribution of climates. Darevskia portschinskii lives in warmer and drier climates than D. mixta; D. ‘dahli’ has the intermediate requirements. Temperature is more important than humidity for D. portschinskii, humidity is more important for D. mixta and both temperature and humidity are important for D. ‘dahli’. Suitable habitats of all three species overlap broadly; however, the observed ranges partly overlap only for D. ‘dahli’ and D. portschinskii. The observed abundance of each species, related to its predicted abundance, is lower at the sites with potential competitors. Darevskia ‘dahli’ occupies a higher proportion of the suitable habitats and has higher abundances than the progenitor species. Competition with D. ‘dahli’ is an important factor determining current distribution pattern of D. portschinskii and D. mixta. The parthenogen is a stronger competitor than the bisexual breeders and potential advantages of the bisexual reproduction remain unrealized in the given temporal and spatial scale. To explain domination of bisexually breeding lizards on the global scale, considering climate changes in geological timescale is necessary.
Tarkhnishvili, D. (2021) -
Tarkhnishvili, D. & Barateli, N. & Murtskhvaladze, M. & Iankoshvili, G. (2020) -
The difference between phenotypic and genotypic differentiation of conspecific populations is commonly used for detecting natural selection. However, phenotypic variation integrates both genetic and nongenetic components, and this may lead researchers to false conclusions. To avoid bias, the analysis of the heritability of individual phenotypic characters is important, but the means are labor-intensive and require controlled crosses. In this paper, we tried to get around these difficulties by working with natural system comprised of the coexisting sexually reproducing lizard Darevskia portschinskii, and its daughter parthenogenetic form, Darevskia dahli. The excess of individual and between-population variation in the sexual form relative to the parthenogen was used as a measure of heritability of each of 21 scalation traits and principal components extracted from their analysis. We compared these data with microsatellite genotypes based on the analysis of five variable loci. We showed that D. portschinskii had higher individual and between-population phenotypic diversity than D. dahli. Phenotypic differences between populations of D. portschinskii (but not D. dahli) correlate with both the geographic distances and pairwise fixation indices based on the analysis of the genetic markers. This correlation substantially increased when, instead of the original phenotypic distances, the corrected Qst values are used to assess the heritability of the characters. A similar analysis pattern is recommended for various natural systems with coexisting sexually and asexually reproducing organisms.
Tarkhnishvili, D. & Gabelaia, M. & Adriaens, D. (2020) -
Phenotypic evolution can cause either divergent or convergent phenotypic patterns. Even adaptation to the same environment may result in divergence of some elements of phenotype, whereas for other morphological traits it could cause phenotypic convergence. We hypothesize that at least some phenotypic characters diverge monotonically, hence they evolve irreversibly even in very closely related species, and this happens in spite of multiple convergent adaptive patterns. We studied the evolution of phenotype in 13 closely related Caucasian rock lizards (Darevskia), whose phylogenetic relationships are well known. We used head shape and the outlines of three important scales, using geometric morphometrics. We studied the association of the overall head shape, individual principal components of head shape and scale outlines with four predictors: phylogeny, habitat, sex and size. The overall head shape was not correlated with any of these predictors, whereas some principal components were correlated with habitat or phylogeny. Habitat type explained the highest fraction of variation in head shape and anal scale area. The relatedness inferred from the components of phenotype not correlated with habitat was congruent with the phylogenetic tree inferred from molecular data. Although adaptation to local environments may obscure the phylogenetic signal present in phenotype, there are components of phenotype whose evolution is irreversible
Tarkhnishvili, D. & Gabelaia, M. & Kandauriv, A. & Bukhnikashvili, A. & Iankoshvili, G. (2017) -
The Lebanon Lizard (Phoenicolacerta laevis) occurs on the Levantine coast and scattered populations are found in isolated coastal habitats along the southern and south-western coast of Turkey. We found an isolated but dense population of this species at and around the castle of Anaklia on Georgia’s Black Sea Coast, near the mouth of the river Enguri. The analysis of mitochondrial cytochrome b sequence suggests closeness of this population to the populations in the provinces of Kahramanmaraş, Adana and Içel in southern Turkey, rather than to those in Lebanon and Israel. It is thought that the species was introduced from a Turkish region to Anaklia, which was an important trade location at the eastern Black Sea coast until the late 18th century. This is the first established location of this species outside the eastern Mediterranean area. Climate and competition with rock lizards of the genus Darevskia are the most likely reasons preventing expansion of the species into the neighboring areas of Western Georgia.
Tarkhnishvili, D. & Gabelaia, M. & Mumladze, L. & Murtskhvaladze, M. (2016) -
The rock lizards of the Darevskia saxicola complex are found exclusively in the west of the Greater Caucasus and in southern Crimea. The earliest split within this group occurred between D. saxicola from the northern and D. brauneri from the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, followed by the split between D. brauneri and the Crimean D. lindholmi, and the expansion of D. saxicola to the westernmost slopes of the Greater Caucasus. We collected nominal D. brauneri from the two easternmost populations of the species range: the valleys of the Tekhuri and Enguri rivers in Georgia. Analysis of mitochondrial DNA showed that the lizards from both valleys are deeply differentiated from each other and from previously characterised D. brauneri . Lizards from Tekhuri keep a basal position within the clade D. saxicola (excluding D. praticola), and lizards from Enguri are closer matrilineally to the northern Caucasian D. saxicola than to either of the populations of nominal D. brauneri. Tekhuri lizards have broader heads and more small scales between the inner and outer rows of supraoculars than the other populations of the group. We suggest that the taxonomy of the group requires revision, considering the multiple deeply divergent mitochondrial lineages and introgressive gene flow between the continental populations of nominal D. saxicola and D. brauneri. The D. saxicola complex in the Caucasus resembles a `ring species` arrangement as described for other taxa and mountain regions.
Tarkhnishvili, D. & Kandaurov, A. & Bukhnikashvili, A. (2002) -
Tarkhnishvili, D. & Murtskhvaladze, M. & Anderson, C.L. (2017) -
The parthenogenetic lizards Darevskia armeniaca and Darevskia dahli are widespread throughout the Lesser Caucasus, although they occupy different habitats. While these forms differ in size, colour and scalation, both D. armeniaca and D. dahli have a hybrid origin and a common maternal progenitor species. Current evidence about the patrilineal origin is inconclusive, and the exact number of ancestral lineages remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the distribution of mitochondrial haplotypes and alleles at five microsatellite loci in both the parthenogenetic forms and their presumed ancestors, in order to infer the number of ancestral hybridization events. Mitochondrial DNA analysis confirmed that both forms descend matrilineally from D. mixta from a limited geographic area in Central Georgia. Simultaneously, the majority of both D. armeniaca and D. dahli shared the same genotypes at two microsatellite loci, but differed at the other three. This observation and overall study of the distribution of the microsatellite genotypes suggests that (1) both D. armeniaca and D. dahli descend from very few, possibly single original hybridization event, most likely D. mixta and D. portschinskii, hence the hypothesis of different paternal species for these two forms is rejected; (2) expansion of the original parthenogenetic hybrid form into the range of D. valentini, followed by backcrosses of D. valentini males with the parthenogens, triggered development of a new parthenogenetic form, D. armeniaca; (3) backcrosses and mutation are more likely reasons of genetic diversity both between and within the parthenogenetic forms than their multiclonal origin.
Tarkhnishvili, D. & Murtskhvaladze, M. & Gavashelishvili, A. (2013) -
Given sufficient time and limited gene flow, evolutionary lineages tend to transform into separate species. Mechanisms preventing assimilation during repeated gene-flow events include divergent adaptations and the development of pre- or postzygotic isolation. We analysed the morphological and genetic boundaries of three species of the rock lizard clade Darevskia ‘rudis’ (Darevskia rudis, Darevskia valentini, and Darevskia portschinskii) in relation to the environment, and tried to reconstruct evolutionary pathways underlying the observed separation among the species. We studied the geographic distribution of the scalation traits, microsatellite genotypes, and mitochondrial haplotypes. Our analyses showed consistent morphological and genetic patterns at the centre of the ranges for each species, but asymmetric distribution of alleles and scalation characters within the current contact zones among the species. The genetic and morphological diversification of the clade has been shaped during glacial isolation in an area of Southern Caucasus, away from the Black Sea Coast. The ancestral lineage of D. portschinskii separated from the common D. rudis–D. valentini lineage in the middle Pleistocene, and the two latter lineages separated in relatively recent geological time. Neither of the lineages attained complete lineage sorting; moreover, isolation and migration modelling have helped to detect recombinant gene flow from D. rudis to D. portschinskii (but not to D. valentini). This is most likely linked with climatically more similar suitable habitats between D. rudis and D. portschinskii than between D. valentini and the other two species. In itself, the isolation period was insufficient for the development of intrinsic isolation mechanisms in the system studied. Thus, differential landscape-dependent selection within the contact zones is likely to have triggered the rapid development of isolation mechanisms.
Tarkhnishvili, D.N. (2012) -
Tarkhnishvilii, D. & Yanchukov, A. & Sahin, M.K. & Gabelaia, M. & Murtskhvaladze, M. & Candan, K. & Galoyan, E. & Arakelyan, M. & Iankoshvilii, G. & Kumlutas, Y. & Ilgaz, C. & Matur, F. & Colak, F. & Erdolu, M. & Kurdadze, S. & Barateli, N. & Anderson, C.L. (2020) -
Background: The majority of parthenogenetic vertebrates derive from hybridization between sexually reproducing species, but the exact number of hybridization events ancestral to currently extant clonal lineages is difficult to determine. Usually, we do not know whether the parental species are able to contribute their genes to the parthenogenetic vertebrate lineages after the initial hybridization. In this paper, we address the hypothesis, whether some genotypes of seven phenotypically distinct parthenogenetic rock lizards (genus Darevskia) could have resulted from back-crosses of parthenogens with their presumed parental species. We also tried to identify, as precise as possible, the ancestral populations of all seven parthenogens. Results: We analysed partial mtDNA sequences and microsatellite genotypes of all seven parthenogens and their presumed ansectral species, sampled across the entire geographic range of parthenogenesis in this group. Our results confirm the previous designation of the parental species, but further specify the maternal populations that are likely ancestral to different parthenogenetic lineages. Contrary to the expectation of independent hybrid origins of the unisexual taxa, we found that genotypes at multiple loci were shared frequently between different parthenogenetic species. The highest proportions of shared genotypes were detected between (i) D. sapphirina and D. bendimahiensis and (ii) D. dahli and D. armeniaca, and less often between other parthenogens. In case (ii), genotypes at the remaining loci were notably distinct. Conclusions: We suggest that both observations (i-ii) can be explained by two parthenogenetic forms tracing their origin to a single initial hybridization event. In case (ii), however, occasional gene exchange between the unisexual and the parental bisexual species could have taken place after the onset of parthenogenetic reproduction. Indeed, backcrossed polyploid hybrids are relatively frequent in Darevskia, although no direct evidence of recent gene flow has been previously documented. Our results further suggest that parthenogens are losing heterozygosity as a result of allelic conversion, hence their fitness is expected to decline over time as genetic diversity declines. Backcrosses with the parental species could be a rescue mechanism which might prevent this decline, and therefore increase the persistance of unisexual forms.
Tarknishvili, D. & Gavashelishvili, A. & Mumladze, L. (2012) -
Spatial and temporal constraints on dispersal explain the absence of species from areas with potentially suitable conditions. Previous studies have shown that post-glacial recolonization has shaped the current ranges of many species, yet it is not completely clear to what extent interspecific differences in range size depend on different dispersal rates. The inferred boundaries of glacial refugia are difficult to validate, and may bias spatial distribution models (SDMs) that consider post-glacial dispersal constraints. We predicted the current distribution of 12 Caucasian forest plants and animals, factoring in the effective geographical distance from inferred glacial refugia as an additional predictor. To infer glacial refugia, we tested the transferability of the current SDMs based on the distribution of climatic variables, and projected the most transferable ones onto two climate scenarios simulated for the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). We then calculated least-cost distances from the inferred refugia, using elevation as a friction surface, and recalculated the current SDMs incorporating the distances as an additional variable. We compared the predictive powers of the initial with the final SDMs. The palaeoclimatic simulation that best matched the distribution of species was assumed to represent the closest fit to the true palaeoclimate. SDMs incorporating refugial distance performed significantly better for all but one studied species, and the Model for Interdisciplinary Research on Climate (MIROC) climatic simulation provided a more convincing pattern of the LGM climate than the Community Climate System Model (CCSM) simulation. Our results suggest that the projection of suitable habitat models onto past climatic conditions may yield realistic boundaries of glacial refugia, and that the current distribution of forest species in the study region is strongly associated with locations of former refugia. We inferred six major forest refugia throughout western Asia: (1) Colchis; (2) western Anatolia; (3) western Taurus; (4) the upper reaches of the Tigris River; (5) the Levant; and (6) the southern Caspian basin. The boundaries of the modelled refugia were substantially broader than the refugia boundaries inferred solely from pollen records. Thus, our method could be used to: (1) improve models of current species distributions by considering the dispersal histories of the species; and (2) validate alternative reconstructions of palaeoclimate with current distribution data.
Tatin, L. & Chabanier, O. & Renet, J. & Becker, E. & Besnard, A. (2011) -
Tatin, L. & Chapelin-Viscardi, J.D. & Renet, J. & Becker, E. & Ponel, P. (2013) -
The diet of Ocellated Lizard, a reptile considered as vulnerable in Europe, was studied in a protected area containing one of the most important French populations of the species. It aims to describe diet composition and its temporal variation but also to identify differences between age classes. A sample of 221 scats was collected from May to September 2010 in seven different sites of the studied area (Crau plain, France). From the 4029 items analysed, 156 taxa were identified. The diet is composed by Coleoptera (26.7 %), Orthoptera (23 %), Hymenoptera (19.3 %) and fruits (17.1 %). Dung beetles represent only 2.1 % of Coleoptera prey, which is surprising for such a heavily grazed area. The diet composition is different from one month to another (χ2 = 943.173, df = 20, p < 0.001) and differences between age classes exist (V = 572, p < 0.001). Adult lizards eat more fruits than juveniles in August (χ2 = 80.349, df = 1, p < 0.001). The prey richness is not different between adults and juveniles (Z = 1.839, p > 0.05). Finally, diet characteristics in the Crau plain are discussed and compared to other Iberian and French Ocellated Lizard populations.
Tatin, L. & Renet, J. (2010) -
Tatin, L. & Renet, J. (2011) -
Tatin, L. & Renet, J. (2016) -
Artificial burrows are widely used for the survey or conservation of reptile populations. Nevertheless, few ecological restoration programs include such management practices into the global project. Two sites in restoration, located into the Crau plain, were implemented with artificial burrows aiming recolonization of the ocellated Lizard. A first feedback of this experience is given regarding the distribution and design of burrows. As several authors showed, such restoration actions are favorable for lizards as they rapidly used artificial burrows. Distance to closest population and burrows distribution seems to be important. Temperatures collected in artificial burrows and original ones are not different. Advices are proposed in order to improve survey and quality of artificial burrows in restoration ecology experiments.
Tatin, L. & Renet, J. & Besnard, A. (2012) -
Population size estimation is crucial when conservation actions are planned, and might allow to identifiy the causes of observed changes. Capture-Recapture (CR) methods are generally used because they are precise. By comparing ocellated lizard population sizes between 1992-93 and 2009 in the Crau National Reserve, authors expose the main hypothesis regarding the drastic decrease observed (73% of adults), and point out the difficulty to implement CR on large protected areas. Implications for Crau National Reserve are presented.
Tatin, L. & Renet, J. & Besnard, A. (2013) -
Tatin, L. & Renet, J. & Wolff, A. & Marchand, M.-A. & Besnard, A. (2016) -
Current conservation assessments and actions are often based upon anecdote or expert knowledge rather than upon evidence resulting from ecological data analysis. Expert knowledge could alert about a decline or a threat but have to be confronted with standardized data collection. The Crau steppe is believed to host one of the largest populations of ocellated lizard in France that suffers a drastic decline. We review local scientific information based on ecological data available on the species and its habitat, and discuss what they teach about population trends and threats. The Crau seems to be more attractive for the species since Second World War thanks to artificial shelters enrichment resulting from human activities. Population trends over the Crau grasslands are too uncertain to infer any hint of drastic decline. Threats are not well identified but shelter availability appears to be an interesting topic. We conclude that rather than attempting to define a reference population based on expert knowledge it would be more effective to aim a population size that allows species to adapt to environmental changes.
Tauchert, J. & Thiele, J. (2010) -
Taverne, M. & Decamps, T. & Mira, O. & Sabolic, I. & Silva, J.D. da & Glogoski, M. & Lisicic, D. & Stambuk, A. & Herrel, A. (2022) -
The kinematics of lizard feeding are the result of complex interactions between the craniocervical, the hyolingual, and the locomotor systems. The coordinated movement of these elements is driven by sensory feedback from the tongue and jaws during intraoral transport. The kinematics of jaw movements have been suggested to be correlated with the functional characteristics of the prey consumed, such as prey mobility and hardness. However, whether and how dietary breadth correlates with the flexibility in the behavioral response has rarely been tested, especially at the intraspecific level. Here we tested whether an increase in dietary breadth was associated with a greater behavioral flexibility by comparing two recently diverged populations of insular Podarcis lizards differing in dietary breadth. To do so, we used a stereoscopic high-speed camera set-up to analyze the jaw kinematics while offering them different prey types. Our results show that prey type impacts kinematics, especially maximum gape, and maximum opening and closing speed. Furthermore, the behavioral flexibility was greater in the population with the greater dietary breadth, suggesting that populations which naturally encounter and feed on more diverse prey items show a greater ability to modulate their movements to deal with variation in functionally relevant prey properties. Finally, the more generalist population showed more stereotyped move- ments suggesting a finer motor control.
Taverne, M. & Dutel, H. & Fagan, M. & Stambuk, A. & Lisicic, D. & Tadic, Z. & Fabre, A.-C. & Herrel, A. (2021) -
Phenotypictraits have been shown to evolve in response to variation in the environment. However, the evolutionary processes underlying the emergence of phenotypic diversity can typically only be understood at the population level. Consequently, how subtlephenotypic differences at the intraspecific level can give rise to larger-scale changes in performance and ecology remains poorlyunderstood. We here tested for the covariation between ecology, bite force, jaw muscle architecture, and the three-dimensional shape of the cranium and mandible in 16 insular populations of the lizards Podarcis melisellensis and P. sicula. We then compared the patterns observed at the among-population level with those observed at the interspecific level. We found that three-dimensional head shape as well as jaw musculature evolve similarly under similar ecological circumstances. Depending on the type of food consumed or on the level of sexual competition, different muscle groups were more developed and appeared to underlie changes in cranium and mandible shape. Our findings show that the local selective regimes are primary drivers of phenotypic variation resulting in predictable patterns of form and function. Moreover, intraspecific patterns of variation were generally consistent with those at the interspecific level, suggesting that microevolutionary variation may translate into macroevolutionary patterns of ecomorphological diversity.
Taverne, M. & Fabra, A.-C. & King‐Gillies, N. & Krajnović, M. & Lisičić, D. & Martin, L. & Michal, L. & Petricioli, D. & Štambuk, A. & Tadić, Z. & Vigliotti, C. & Werle, B.A. & Herrel, A. (2019) -
Scientifique, Paris, France 2Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London, UK 3Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia 4D.I.I.V. Ltd. for Marine, Freshwater and Subterranean Ecology, Sali, Croatia 5Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA Correspondence Maxime Taverne, UMR 7179, Département Adaptations du Vivant, Muséum National d`Histoire Naturelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France. Email: maxime.taverne@mnhn.fr Funding information National Geographic Committee for Research and Exploration Abstract Access to resources is a dynamic and multicausal process that determines the suc- cess and survival of a population. It is therefore often challenging to disentangle the factors affecting ecological traits like diet. Insular habitats provide a good opportu- nity to study how variation in diet originates, in particular in populations of meso- predators such as lizards. Indeed, high levels of population density associated with low food abundance and low predation are selection pressures typically observed on islands. In the present study, the diet of eighteen insular populations of two closely related species of lacertid lizards (Podarcis sicula and Podarcis melisellensis) was as- sessed. Our results reveal that despite dietary variability among populations, diet taxonomic diversity is not impacted by island area. In contrast, however, diet dispar- ity metrics, based on the variability in the physical (hardness) and behavioral (eva- siveness) properties of ingested food items, are correlated with island size. These findings suggest that an increase in intraspecific competition for access to resources may induce shifts in functional components of the diet. Additionally, the two species differed in the relation between diet disparity and island area suggesting that differ- ent strategies exist to deal with low food abundance in these two species. Finally, sexual dimorphism in diet and head dimensions is not greater on smaller islands, in contrast to our predictions.
Taverne, M. & King-Gillies, N. & Krajnovic, M. & Lisicic, D. & Mira, Ó. & Petricioli, D. & Sabolic, I. & Stambuk, A. & Tadic, Z. & Vigliotti, C. Wehrle, B. & Herrel, A. (2020) -
Bite force is a key performance trait in lizards because biting is involved in many ecologically relevant tasks, including foraging, fighting and mating. Several factors have been suggested to impact bite force in lizards, such as head morphology (proximate factors), or diet, intraspecific competition and habitat characteristics (ultimate factors). However, these have been generally investigated separately and mostly at the interspecific level. Here we tested which factors drive variation in bite force at the population level and to what extent. Our study includes 20 populations of two closely related lacertid species, Podarcis melisellensis and Podarcis sicula, which inhabit islands in the Adriatic. We found that lizards with more forceful bites have relatively wider and taller heads, and consume more hard prey and plant material. Island isolation correlates with bite force, probably by driving resource availability. Bite force is only poorly explained by proxies of intraspecific competition. The linear distance from a large island and the proportion of difficult-to-reduce food items consumed are the ultimate factors that explain most of the variation in bite force. Our findings suggest that the way in which morphological variation affects bite force is species-specific, probably reflecting the different selective pressures operating on the two species.
Taverne, M. & Watson, P.J. & Dutel, H. & Boistel, R. & Lisicic, D. & Tadic, Z. & Fabre, A. & Fagan, M.J. & Herrel, A. (2023) -
Macroevolutionary changes such as variation in habitat use or diet are often associated with convergent, adaptive changes in morphology. However, it is still unclear how small-scale morphological variation at the population level can drive shifts in ecology such as observed at a macroevolutionary scale. Here, we address this question by investigating how variation in cranial form and feeding mechanics relate to rapid changes in diet in an insular lizard (Podarcis siculus) after experimental introduction into a new environment. We first quantified differences in the skull shape and jaw muscle architecture between the source and introduced population using three-dimensional geometric morphometrics and dissections. Next, we tested the impact of the observed variation in morphology on the mechanical performance of the masticatory system using computer-based biomechanical simulation techniques. Our results show that small differences in shape, combined with variation in muscle architecture, can result in significant differences in performance allowing access to novel trophic resources. The confrontation of these data with the already described macroevolutionary relationships between cranial form and function in these insular lizards provides insights into how selection can, over relatively short time scales, drive major changes in ecology through its impact on mechanical performance.
Tay, A. (2016) -
Tayan, Y. & Cicek, K. & Ayaz, D. & Tok, C.V. (2011) -
During our field work in the Tepeler Village (Ardahan, Turkey) on 27th of August, 2010, we observed hatchlings of Darevsika valentini. The mean body length of was found as 28.06±1.14 (25.3 - 30.4) and the total length as 70.81±3.92 (61.9 - 81.0). Juveniles were generally observed under stones and those portions of the roots of annual herbaceous plants which remain under stone are also used as shelters for juveniles. Neonates on the southern slopes of the hills could be individually seen and mostly, individuals aggregated [median number of individuals, 6 (1-15)] and lived in groups.
Tayhan, Y. & Yakin, B.Y. & Tok, C.V. (2016) -
Ophisops elegans is a widely distributed lizard species. Like other lacertids, O. elegans has characteristic head plates. In this paper, the variation of the head plate morphology between sexes was studied in the subspecies Ophisops elegans centralanatoliae. According to our results, both size and shape of the head plates show sexual dimorphism. The most remarkable shape difference between sexes is observed in the parietal region. In addition, the ontogentic allometry of the head plate shapes was investigated.
Tayler, N. (1918) -
Taylor, D. (2012) -
Taylor, D. & Winder, L. (1997) -
Taylor, E.H. (1963) -
Taylor, E.H. & Weyer, D. (1958) -
Tedaldi, G. (2003) -
Tedaldi, G. (2009) -
Tedaldi, G. & Laghi, P. & Mazzotti, S. (1997) -
Tedder, A. & Pyles, R. & Stewart, J.R. (2018) -
Among vertebrates, oviparous animals lay eggs with a calcified eggshell and eggs are laid in an external environment, while viviparous animals retain eggs in oviduct until they give birth to live young. Viviparity has evolved in the lineage of snakes and lizards (squamates) over 100 times, more than all other vertebrate groups. Embryos of oviparous squamates obtain calcium from both yolk and eggshell while their viviparous counterparts lack a calcified eggshell and must obtain their calcium solely from yolk, or from yolk plus placental transfer. During embryonic development, squamates rely on calcium to build the skeleton before hatching. The extent of skeletal ossification at hatching or birth varies considerably among vertebrates. This study aims to determine if skeletal development/ossification varies in association with reduced eggshell calcium in embryos of viviparous squamate species. We studied the amount of ossification and overall size of embryos and hatchlings from an oviparous and a viviparous population of the reproductively bimodal lizard Zootoca vivipara. Previous studies suggested that limb development is delayed, and that overall size is reduced in viviparous squamates. We tested the hypothesis that viviparous embryos and hatchlings are more skeletally immature and smaller in size than oviparous embryos and hatchlings in squamates. To achieve this, specimens from both populations, spanning multiple stages of embryonic development including hatchlings, were cleared & stained to reveal skeletal cartilage and bone. Lengths of total body, humerus, femur, skull and Meckel’s cartilage were measured from photographs of cleared & stained specimens taken with a Cannon EOS 70D camera on a Motic, Leica MZ9 Compound Microscope, with a measurement reference in each picture. Photos were calibrated to the measurement reference and total length measurements were obtained using iSolutionLite® software. In addition to total measurements, the lengths of ossified portions on the humerus and femur were also measured. Preliminary results revealed that total length of the skull and body are reduced in embryos and hatchlings of viviparous specimens. Total length of the limbs and of Meckel’s cartilage are not significantly different between populations. However, it appears that the amount of ossification in the limbs is reduced in oviparous specimens. These preliminary findings do not support our hypothesis and indicate that reduction in eggshell calcium in embryos of viviparous populations does not negatively impact ossification during development but does influence overall size.
Teichmann, L. (1978) -
Tejado, C. & Potes, M.E. (2008) -
Tejero-Cicuéndez, H. & Patton, A.H. & Caetano, D.S. & Smid, J. & Harmon, L.J. & Carranza, S. (2022) -
The geographic distribution of biodiversity is central to understanding evolutionary biology. Paleogeographic and paleoclimatic histories often help to explain how biogeographic patterns unfold through time. However, such patterns are also influenced by a variety of other factors, such as lineage diversification, that may affect the probability of certain types of biogeographic events. The complex and well-known geologic and climatic history of Afro-Arabia, together with the extensive research on reptile systematics in the region, makes Afro-Arabian squamate communities an ideal system to investigate biogeographic patterns and their drivers. Here, we reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships and the ancestral geographic distributions of several Afro-Arabian reptile clades (totaling 430 species) to estimate the number of dispersal, vicariance and range contraction events. We then compare the observed biogeographic history to a distribution of simulated biogeographic events based on the empirical phylogeny and the best-fit model. This allows us to identify periods in the past where the observed biogeographic history was likely shaped by forces beyond the ones included in the model. We find an increase in vicariance following the Oligocene, most likely caused by the fragmentation of the Afro-Arabian plate. In contrast, we did not find differences between observed and expected dispersal and range contraction levels. This is consistent with diversification enhanced by environmental processes and with the establishment of a dispersal corridor connecting Africa, Arabia and Eurasia since the middle Miocene. Finally, here we show that our novel approach is useful to pinpoint events in the evolutionary history of lineages that might reflect external forces not predicted by the underlying biogeographic model.
Telea, A. & Balasuio. D. & Timofte, C. & Cogalniceanu, D. (2018) -
Telemeco, R.S. & Gangloff, E.J. & Corcero, G.A. & Rodgers, E.M. & Aubret, F. (2022) -
1. Accurately predicting the responses of organisms to novel or changing environments requires the development of ecologically-appropriate experimental methodology and process-based models. 2. For ectotherms, thermal performance curves (TPCs) have provided a useful framework to describe how organismal performance is dependent on temperature. However, this approach often lacks a mechanistic underpinning, which limits our ability to use TPCs predictively. Furthermore, thermal dependence varies across traits, and performance is also limited by additional abiotic factors, such as oxygen availability. 3. We test a central prediction of our recent Hierarchical Mechanisms of Thermal Limitation (HMTL) Hypothesis which proposes that natural hypoxia exposure will reduce maximal performance and cause the TPC for whole-organism performance to become more symmetrical. 4. We quantified TPCs for two traits often used as fitness proxies, sprint speed and aerobic scope, in lizards under conditions of normoxia and high-elevation hypoxia. 5. In line with the predictions of HMTL, anaerobically fuelled sprint speed was unaffected by acute hypoxia while the TPC for aerobic scope became shorter and more symmetrical. This change in TPC shape resulted from both the maximum aerobic scope and the optimal temperature for aerobic scope being reduced in hypoxia as predicted. 6. Following these results, we present a mathematical framework, which we call Temperature–Oxygen Performance Surfaces, to quantify the interactive effects of temperature and oxygen on whole-organism performance in line with the HMTL hypothesis. This framework is transferrable across traits and levels of organization to allow predictions for how ectotherms will respond to novel combinations of temperature and other abiotic factors, providing a useful tool in a time of rapidly changing environmental conditions.
Telford Jr., S.R. (1986) -
The African flying lizard Holaspis guentheri (Lacertidae) from the Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania was found infected by an undescribed malarial parasite, Plasmodium holaspi n. sp. Gametocytes were elongate, approximately twice the size of host cell nuclei, and showed prominent, irregular pigment granules. Schizonts were oblong or formed as rosettes, approximated the host cell nucleus in size, and produced 8-18 merozoites. Maturing gametocytes contained large masses or blocks of chromatin which can obscure sexual differentiation by staining reaction, while young gametocytes and asexual stages almost always occupy marginal positions in host cells. These characteristics distinguish P. holaspi from all other saurian Plasmodium species. This is the first malarial parasite described from African lacertid species.
Telford Jr., S.R. (1992) -
Eimeria takydromi n. sp., a coccidian infecting the gall-bladder epithelium and bile-ducts, was found to parasitise three Takydromus species: T. tachydromoides of Honshu, Japan; T. smaragdinus of Amami Oshima, Ryukyu Islands, Japan; and T. sexlineatus of Thailand. Although differences were found in the mean oöcyst and sporocyst indices among the different hosts, the considerable overlap in morphometric characters demonstrated conspecificity. Eimeria takydromi is an addition to the symbiotic complex associated with Takydromus spp. in eastern and southeastern Asia that includes Plasmodium sasai, Trypanosoma takydromi, Schellackia sp. and Lizard Erythrocytic Virus. These host-symbiote associations may have persisted since a lacertid ancestral to the modern species of Takydromus dispersed throughout the region from the late Pliocene.
Telford, S.R. (1969) -
A three year study of a population of Takydromus tachydromoides in central Honshu, Japan revealed that yolk deposition in follicles of juvenile lizards begins in the late spring following their first hibernation, at a body length exceeding 41 mm. Adult females emerge from hibernation with yolked follicles. Oviposition of first year lizards begins in early June, reaches a maximum in July and ends before mid-August. Older females begin oviposition in early May, reach their peak in the first half of June, and cease laying in late July. In experimental lizards corpora lutea regressed from an average of 2.1 mm on the day of oviposition to 1.0 mm five days postoviposition. These persist as corpora albicantia apparently for the life of the lizard. Estimates of age groupings by counts of corpora albicantia suggests that first year females contain none in spring and 4-13 in fall; second year lizards, 1-12 in spring and 14-26 in fall; third year females, 14-23 in spring and 26-39 in fall; and fourth year females, 31-40 in spring and 51-69 in fall. The incidence of corpora albicantia in adult lizards collected from 15 August until hibernation is 97%. Clutch size of first year lizards ranges from 1 to 4 for all clutches, with means of 2.6 for the first clutch and 2.4 for the second and third. Clutches of second year females range from 1 to 6, with means of 4.0 for the first and second, and 3.4 for the third clutch. Third year females lay clutches of 1-7 ova, with means of 4.4 and 5.1 for first and second clutches, respectively; third clutches approximate 3.5 eggs. Fourth year females apparently deposit 4-6 ova or more per clutch. Mean clutch number calculated by dividing average clutch size into the mean number of corpora albicantia in fall lizards is 2.9. A mean clutch number of 2.7 was obtained by dividing the length of the reproductive season by the time required to produce the first clutch. The reproductive season varied from 76 to 86 days for first year females, and from 112 to 127 days for older females. Reproductive potentials estimated by counts of yolked follicles, corpora lutea and oviductal eggs were 7.4, 11.4, and 12.8, for first, second and third year females, respectively. Estimated from the mean difference between counts of corpora albicantia in spring and fall lizards, they were 9.3, 12.9 and 11.6, in respective order. The latter method suggests a mean reproductive potential for fourth year females of 20.4. There is no difference in average clutch size between small and large females of the same age group, but second year females produce first clutches nearly twice as large as those of first year lizards. Average weights of individual eggs and total clutches increase as females age. Total clutch weight ranges from 30 to 50% of the females postovipositional weight. The sex ratio in all age groups in each season is 1:1. Of the total female sample, 62.5% had survived their first breeding season, 25.0% their second, 9.8% their third, and 2.7% their fourth season.
Telford, S.R. (1970) -
easonal fluctuations in liver and fat body weights were studied in a population of Takydromus tachydromoides (Lacertidae) during two annual cycles. Liver and fat body weights are at minimum levels in late summer and rise rapidly in September and early October prior to hibernation. Livers of adult females and juveniles of both sexes show no apparent weight loss, but livers of adult males decrease in weight during hibernation, and continue to decline throughout spring and early summer. Livers of juvenile males and all females increase in weight during spring; those of adult females decrease during formation of clutches two and three in June and early July. Fat bodies of each age group of both sexes decrease in weight by approximately 50% during hibernation. Fat bodies of males continue to decline until July, although those of juvenile males increase immediately following hibernation. Adult and juvenile females increase fat reserves until vitellinogenesis for the first clutch increases sharply in the last half of April by adults and in late May by juveniles. Later clutches then exhaust remaining fat reserves. Fat bodies of adult females decreased in weight by 83 and 74% during formation of clutch one in 1966 and 1967. Age differences exist in proportionate organ weights of each sex during much of the season. During formation of clutch one, second year females had available approximately three times as much fat as did first year females.
Telford, S.R. (1997) -
Tellería, J.L. & Díaz, J.A. & Pérez-Tris, J. & De Juana, E. & De la Hera, I. & Iraeta, P. & Salvador, A. & Santos, T. (2011) -
Barrier effects on vertebrate distribution caused by a motorway crossing through fragmented forest landscape.— We analysed the effects of a 25–year–old motorway on the distribution of five vertebrates inhabiting a fragmented forest landscape and differing in their ability to move across linear infrastructures. We found clear evidence of barrier effects on the distribution of the forest lizard Psammodromus algirus. The roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) was also unequally distributed on both sides of the motorway, but this could also be due, at least in part, to fragmentation. The eyed lizard (Timon lepidus), that can move through open fields, showed no evidence of barrier effects. The distribution of two small birds (Erithacus rubecula and Phylloscopus bonelli) was unaffected by the motorway. Our results show that a motorway may severely restrict the distribution of species which can withstand high levels of forest fragmentation but show limited dispersal ability, highlighting the role of linear infrastructures in shaping species’ ranges at regional scales.
Tello Marquina, J.C. (1975) -
Tempére, G. (1937) -
Tenen, S. & Rotger Vallespir, A. & Igual, J.M. & Moya, Ó. & Royle, J.A. & Tavecchia, G. (2013) -
Estimating population size and understanding its variation is a fundamental, yet complicated, aim of many ecological studies. We considered the problem of estimating spring and autumn population abundance, size-dependent population structure and sex-ratio of the endemic Balearic Lizard, Podarcis lilfordi from a three occasions capture-recapture study. We used a Bayesian formulation of individual covariate models to incorporate individual sex, size and trap-response. We first considered a set of simulated data with a medium-to-low probability of recapture and individual recapture heterogeneity to evaluate potential problems in model fitting and selection. Results from simulated data indicated a low performance in parameter estimation and model selection when probability of detection was low (0.15-0.30). We found a negative permanent trap response and a positive effect of size on detection probability in the spring survey but not in the autumn one. The estimated mean densities varied from about 800 to 1000 lizards ha(-1), a high value when comparing with mainland lizard populations. The observed increase in abundance was probably due to a drop in territorial behaviour and the immigration of females into the area sampled. As a consequence, sex-ratio changed from nearly even in June (mean posterior, 95%CRI; 0.928, 0.676-1.167) to a female-skewed population in October (0.612, 0.478-0.772).
Tenenbaum, S (1915) -
Wahrend meines Aufenthaltes auf den Balearen im Sommer 1913 habe ich ein ziemlich umfangreiches herpetologi- sches Material gesammelt, das ich gemeinsam mit Herrn Otto Cyren bearbeitet habe.
Terbish, Kh. & Munkhbayar, Kh. & Clark, E.L. & Munkhbat, J. & Monks, E.M. (2006) -
Terentjev, P.V. (1923) -
Terentjev, P.V. & Chernov, S.A. (1949) -
Терентьев, П.В. & Чернов, С.А. (1949) -
Terhivuo, J. (1981) -
Up-to-date provisional dot maps of the amphibian and reptile species of Finland have been drawn. The records, totalling 11831, are located in the 10 × 10 km squares of the uniform grid (27°E) system and the species recorded comprise the great crested newt (Triturus cristatus), smooth newt (T. vulgaris), common toad (Bufo bufo), common frog (Rana temporaria), moor frog (R. arvalis), marsh frog (R. ridibunda), common lizard (Lacerta vivipara), slow-worm (Anguis fragilis), grass snake (Natrix natrix), smooth snake (Coronella austriaca), and adder (Vipera berus). The data indicate the disappearance of the marsh frog from the Finnish herpetofauna in the 1960s, and the slow-worm was no longer found in the main-land of Åland despite having been recorded there about fifty to sixty years ago. The adder and the smooth newt were reported from further north than earlier and the great crested newt was collected both in the Åland archipelago, southwestern Finland, and near the southeastern border of Finland. Old, probably dubious records of the grass snake and the slow-worm near or north of the Arctic Circle, inland records of the smooth snake and records of the great crested newt from the southern and southwestern coastal area of the Finnish mainland could not be verified and they should be excluded from the herpetological literature referring to the up-to-date ranges of the species in northern Europe. Moreover, a great number of supplementary records of the moor frog were received from different parts of Finland. Maps indicating the provisional abundances of eight Finnish amphibian and reptile species were prepared on the basis of 2677 reports with estimations of the state of local populations in the 1960s and `70s. Many local populations, especially those of the adder and the common toad, were reported as having been declining during the past ten to twenty years. Possible reasons for the trend are discussed. Data concerning the amphibians and reptiles killed by traffic in southern Finland are presented. The northern European ranges of the Finnish amphibian and reptile species are reviewed in relation to the geographical, historical and climatic factors of that area.
Terhivuo, J. (1993) -
Based on 30239 records from several questionnaires and field censuses in 1980—1992 distribution maps were drawn for the amphibian and reptile species of Finland. Populations of the great crested newt (Triturus cristatus), smooth newt (T. vulgaris), slow worm (Anguis fragilis) and smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) were found outside the ranges where they were recorded in a corresponding survey of 1960—79. These recoveries were attributed to a more accurate recording of the species in the field and not to recent dispersal jumps. No considerable changes in the ranges of the common frog (Rana temporaria), moor frog (R. arvalis), common toad (Bufo bufo), common lizard (Lacerta vivipara), slow worm (Anguis fragilis), grass snake (Natrix natrix) and adder (Vipera berus) were observed in comparison with the ranges they occupied in 1960—79. The marsh frog (Rana ridibunda), recorded in Finland for the last time in 1960, was not found during the period of 1980—1992, either. The mean abundances of V. berus, N. natrix and A. fragilis were lower now in 50% or more of the biological provinces monitored in 1960—79. In the other species, the mean abundances were the same as in the preceeding monitoring survey. The trends reported for local herptile populations in 1980—92 imply that V. berus, N. natrix, A. fragilis and T. vulgaris have decreased more often than the other species. For none of the species did the reports indicating a population increase exceed 30% of all the reports with trends for the same species.
Terhivuo, J. (1995) -
Terrasa Pont, B. (2009) -
Podarcis lilfordi, juntament amb Podarcis pityusensis, són les dues espècies endèmiques de sargantanes que habiten les illes Balears. A partir de cinc fragments de DNA mitocondrial (cytb-1, cytb2, rRNA12S, regió control i NADH) i un fragment de DNA nuclear (C-mos) s`han establert les relacions filogenètiques i els esdeveniments cladogenètics que han configurat l`estructura genètica actual de podarcis lilfordi i la relació amb P. pityusensis. Hem situat la separació de les dues espècies al final de la Crisi Messiniana, ocorreguda a la Mar Mediterrània al final de Miocè (fa 5,33 Ma). S`ha detectat una estructura genètica coherent amb la distribució geogràfica en quatre grans grups de P. lilfordi. El primer grup està format per totes les poblacions de Menorca; el segon agrupa les poblacions de les illes de l`oest de Mallorca (Dragonera, Malgrats i Toro); el tercer grup està format per les poblacions dels illots del Freu de Cabrera amb presència d`alguns illots de Mallorca (es Colomer i sa Porrassa); i el quart està format per les poblacions dels illots que enrevolten Cabrera gran i els illots del sud d`aquest arxipèlag. S`ha aconseguit datar amb exactitud els grans nodes de la filogènia de P. lilfordi. Tots aquest processos cladogenètics s`han produït a partir del Pliocè superior i durant tot el Plistocè. El primer event cladogenètic, corresponent a la separació de Menorca, se situa al final del del Pliocè (fa 2,6-2,8 Ma). El segon procés de cladogènisi correspon a la separació de les illes de l`Oest, datat de fa 2,0-2,3 Ma. El node que separa el grup de les illes del Freu (grup tres) de les del sud de Cabrera (grup quatre) està datat en 1,2 Ma. Els mecanismes de diferenciació que hem detectat a cada un d`aquest quatre grans llinatges han estat: expansió demogràfica al grup de Menorca, fragmentació alopàtrica al grup d`illes de l`Oest i als Estells del sud de Cabrera, colonització a llarga distància a les illes des Sud de Mallorca, i fragmentació de l`hàbitat en el cas del Colomer. No es pot descartar algunes dispersions antropogèniques tant en períodes històrics com fins i tot a l`actualitat.
Terrasa, B. & Brown, R.P. & Castro, J.A. & Gimenez, P. & Koskison, P. & Perez-Mellado, V. & Hernandez-Estevez, J.A. & Picornell, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2005) -
Terrasa, B. & Capó, M.C. & Picornell, A. & Castro, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2001) -
Terrasa, B. & Capó, M.C. & Picornell, A. & Castro, J.A. & Ramon, M.M. (2001) -
Terrasa, B. & Capó, M.C. & Picornell, A. & Castro, J.A. & Ramon, M.M. (2004) -
Two endemic species of Podarcis inhabit the Balearic archipelago: Podarcis lilfordi in the Gymnesies islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Cabrera and associated islets) and Podarcis pityusensis in the Pityuses islands (Ibiza, Formentera and surrounding islets). Predation by introduced weasels, hedgekogs, feral cats, rats and snakes probably eliminated these species from the main island of Menorca and Mallorca. A high number of subspecies have been described by means of morphological data, but they have not been confirmed by molecular data. We have studied mtDNA sequence from part of the cytochrome b gene from specimens from different islands and islets. A clear separation between both species is found, although the genetic distance is lower than those between mainland species of Podarcis, indicating a shorter divergence time. These results were positively correlated with those obtained by means of enzymatic polymorphisms. A FST mean value (0.868) was found for all samples indicating strong structuring of the populations, higher than values obtained in other populations of lizards. The differentiation between P. lilfordi samples, estimated by FST and genetic distances, does not confirm the monophyly of the two presently accepted subspecies. A high migration rate detected among P. pityusensis samples does not support the numerous subspecies described in Ibiza and Formentera area, confirming the systematic pattern proposed by Salvador (1984). The divergence time estimated are in accordance with geological data, and suggest a similar rate of divergence, i.e., 2% per my, postulated for this gene region by other studies.
Terrasa, B. & Capó, M.C. & Picornell, A. & Castro, J.A. & Ramón, M.M. (2004) -
Terrasa, B. & Giménez, P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Picornell, A. & Brown, R.P. & Castro, J.A. & Ramon, M.M. (2005) -
Terrasa, B. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Brown, R.P. & Picornell, A. & Castro, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2009) -
Aim To describe and analyse phylogeographical patterns in the endangered endemic lizard Podarcis lilfordi from across its remaining range and thereby establish baseline information on genetic diversity that will help determine conservation priorities and assist future reintroduction programs. Location Balearic Islands, Spain. Methods We analysed mitochondrial DNA (2382 bp sequence from eight genes) from 118 individuals and characterized the relationships among haplotypes using parsimony networks, as well as phylogenetic inference. Analyses of historical gene flow and population growth were used to provide further insights into population histories. Results Four unconnected parsimony networks were obtained that mirrored the main clades in the phylogenetic tree: (I) all Menorcan populations, (II) Dragonera, Malgrats and Toro islands (Western Mallorca) (III and IV) and the remaining populations from Cabrera and Mallorca. Two major haplotype groups were detected in Menorca (I) and these provided signatures of a demographic expansion and asymmetrical historical gene flow, respectively, concordant with the expected direction of colonization from south to north of the island. Populations from western Mallorca (II) showed evidence of historical allopatric fragmentation events following isolation around the start of the Pleistocene. In networks III and IV, Cabreran populations appear to have become isolated from north and south Mallorca quite recently, with asymmetric gene flow indicating a northwards dispersal direction. Main conclusions P. lilfordi is a genetically diverse species that shows substantial mtDNA structuring both between regions and, at a finer scale, between some islet populations within regions. The precarious state of some islet populations shown here to be quite divergent (e.g. Toro island in western Mallorca) means that conservation of this intraspecific biodiversity requires urgent action.
Terrasa, B. & Picornell, A. & Castro, J.A. & Ramon, M.M. (2004) -
Sequences of the cytochrome b gene were analysed for 47 samples of two species of Podarcis from the Balearic Islands (P. pityusensis from Pityuses and P. lilfordi, from Gymnesies archipelago). The average uncorrected distance between the two species studied was 9.7%. The sampled individuals from each species form reciprocally monophyletic units. Assuming an overall rate of change for cytochrome b of 2% per million years the nucleotide divergence of 9.7 ± 1.9% between P. lilfordi and P. pityusensis, could correspond to a divergence time of 4.95 ± 0.95 million years. The separation time between Gymnesies and Pityuses archipelagos according to geological hypotheses is around 5 million years, thus our results suggest the ancestors of the two present forms became isolated during this event. The most parsimonious networks suggest that currently accepted subspecies do not form monophyletic groups, and so should be reassessed. Despite our limited sampling the level of variability is much higher in P. lilfordi than P. pityusensis. Since they are sister taxa the relative age of each species is equal, therefore the differences might be due to historical population structure differences. However it seems that the forms on the islands are not genetically distinct units, implying that morphological differences are recent adaptations to their environments.
Terrasa, B. & Rodriguez, V. & Brown, R.P. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Picornell, A. & Castro, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2008) -
Two endemic species of Podarcis inhabit the Balearic archipelago, Podarcis lilfordi in Gymnesic islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Cabrera and associated islets) and Podarcis pityusensis in Pityusic islands (Ibiza, Formentera and surrounding islets). The morphological variation within both these species is considerable, and has lead to 28 and 23 subspecies in P. lilfordi and P. pityusensis, respectively, being generally accepted. Many are restricted to extremely small islets. A preliminary genetic study indicated high genetic diversity among P. lilfordi while diversity was lower within P. pityusensis, indicating less population substructure. The structuring within P. lilfordi has since been described in detail, but the pattern within P. pityusensis is still poorly-known. We have now sampled 15 insular populations of Podarcis pityusensis from Ibiza and Formentera and one introduced population, Murada, in Palma de Mallorca. A total 61 individuals were analyzed (n=2-5 for each locality). We sequenced five fragments of the mitochondrial DNA: 12S rRNA, cytochrome b (two regions obtained separately), control region and an 800 bp (ND) fragment that included part of the ND1 gene, three tRNA genes, tRNAIle, tRNAGln, and tRNA Met and part of the ND2 gene. The total length of mitochondrial sequence analyzed for each animal was 2382 bp. We obtained the following measures of genetic diversity: Haplotype (gene) diversity and its sampling variance, Nucleotide diversity, Pi (p), the average number of nucleotide differences per site between two sequences and its sampling variance, Theta (per site) that for mitochondrial DNA is 2Nm, where N is the effective population size of females. We have also calculated, for each fragment, a haplotype network using the probability under parsimony criterion. The results indicate much lower levels of mtDNA structuring diversity among P. pityusensis populations compared with P. lilfordi. The networks obtained for each gene in P. pityusensis show no evidence of missing internal nodes, in contrast with P. lilfordi, which is suggestive of very recent separation of populations. The differing levels of diversity between the two species could be explained by the differences in area of Ibiza and Formentera. They are smaller, more ecologically uniform, and will have been subject to fewer historical periods of island separation due to lowering of sea-levels than in Mallorca, Menorca and Cabrera.
Terrasa, B. & Rodríguez, V. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Brown, R. & Picornell, A. & Castro, J.A. & Ramon, M.M. (2009) -
A les illes Balears hi ha representades dues espècies endèmiques de sargantanes: Podarcis lilfordi (illes Gimnèsies) i Podarcis pityusensis (illes Pitiüses). A cada illa o illot s’ha produït diferenciació, i la més fàcil d’observar és la morfològica. Són espècies molt valuoses per a l’estudi de l’evolució, ja que, juntament amb el ferreret, són els únics representants vius de la fauna prehumana a les Illes; la resta de vertebrats actuals han estat introduïts a partir de l’arribada dels humans a les illes Balears. Les tècniques de seqüenciació de DNA han permès mesurar la divergència genètica entre les poblacions de P. lilfordi i determinar les relacions filogenètiques en aquesta espècie.
Terrasa, B. & Rodriguez, V. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Picornell, A. & Brown, R.P. & Castro, A. & Ramon, M.M. (2008) -
Two endemic species of Podarcis inhabit the Balearic archipelago in the Mediterranean: Podarcis lilfordi in the Gymnesic island group (Mallorca, Menorca, Cabrera and associated islets) and Podarcis pityusensis in the Pityusic group (Ibiza, Formentera and surrounding islets). They originated from range fragmentation of their common ancestor during the reflooding of the Mediterranean after the opening of the Strait of Gibraltar some 5.33 Ma years ago. Subsequent major changes in sea level have occurred, particularly during glacial periods of the Pleistocene, but these have not been sufficient to unite the two main island groups again. The last major ice ages, the Riss (200.000 years ago) and the Würm (25.000 years ago) were the most intense. Here we address interspecific evolution within the former species. Podarcis lilfordi is found on islands and islets off the coast of Mallorca and Menorca (including the Cabrera archipelago). It became extinct on these main islands during the past few thousand years. However 43 different insular populations of the endangered P. lilfordi still survive: 11 from islets around Mallorca, 16 from Menorcan islets and 16 from the Cabrera archipelago. A total of 118 individuals were analyzed, two or three from each locality. We sequenced five fragments of mitochondrial DNA: 12S rRNA, cytochrome b (two regions obtained separately), control region and an 800 bp (ND) fragment that included part of the ND1 gene, three tRNA genes, tRNAIle, tRNAGln, and tRNA Met and part of the ND2 gene. The total length of mitochondrial sequence analyzed for each animal was 2382 bp. We analyzed the spatial component of the genetic diversity using Nested Clade Phylogeographic Analysis (NCPA) and examined dispersal patterns using coalescent-based analyses of historical migration to investigate the processes that may have lead to the current phylogeographic patterns. Four unconnected parsimony networks were obtained: (I) all Menorcan populations, (II) Dragonera, Malgrats and Toro islands (Western Mallorca), (III and IV) the remaining populations from Cabrera and Mallorca. Within network I, contiguous range expansion was inferred for both main clades. Populations from western Mallorca (II) have undergone historical allopatric fragmentation events following isolation around the start of the Pleistocene. Populations from Cabrera appear to have become isolated from north and south Mallorca more recently. Clades within networks III and IV showed some allopatric fragmentation and restricted gene flow (isolation by distance) among islands from Cabrera, as well as long distance dispersal between the Cabrera archipelago and southern Mallorca. The genetic effects of bottlenecks cannot be discarded in most of the smaller populations, some of these with a reduced population size. Historical gene flow was estimated using MIGRATE. We have only obtained clear evidence of asymmetrical gene flow between networks III and IV. In Network I, we observed a South-North gene flow between the two clades (3-1 and 3-2) with haplotypes from Menorca. Between the two clades (4-1 and 4-2) belong to network IV gene flow was virtually symmetrical.
Terrasa, B. & Rodriguez, V. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Picornell, A. & Brown, R.P. & Castro, J.A. & Ramon, M.M. (2008) -
Podarcis lilfordi is an endemic lizard found on islands and islets off the coast of Mallorca and Menorca (including the Cabrera archipelago) in the Balearic Islands, which is extinct on the two main islands themselves. Analyses of mtDNA revealed four unconnected parsimony networks. These represented (I) all Menorcan populations, (II) Dragonera, Malgrats and Toro islands (Western Mallorca), (III and IV) the remaining populations from Cabrera and Mallorca. We applied NCPA to evaluate its utility in understanding the genetic sub-structure. Within network I, contiguous range expansion was inferred for both main clades. Populations from western Mallorca (II) have undergone historical allopatric fragmentation events following isolation around the start of the Pleistocene. Clades within networks III and IV showed some allopatric fragmentation and restricted gene flow (isolation by distance) among islands from Cabrera, as well as long distance dispersal between the Cabrera archipelago and southern Mallorca. The NCPA strongly supports the importance of allopatric fragmentation, with some additional support for range expansion. The primary advantage of the NCPA approach was to provide statistical support for these inferences.
Terry, H. (1922) -
Presence and impacts of pathogen infections in wildlife are known to be determined by a hierarchical set of factors including host, habitat, and general environment characteristics. While an increased number of studies have been documenting host-parasite interactions in natural systems, little is known about these impacts in island ecosystems. To elucidate the impacts of infection in island populations, we investigate the effects of Hepatazoon (and apicomplexan hemoparasite) wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii) populations, on 17 Cycladic islands (Aegean Sea, Greece). Specifically, we evaluated the effects of infection on multiple aspects of lizard life history from lizards from these islands. We found significant declines of condition in infected populations, though only in male lizards, suggesting a sex-specific response to infection. Mixed model analyses also suggest that some island level characteristics can affect the health and locomotion of lizards. These results indicate variability in the impacts of malarial infection across populations of P. erhardii.
Tersa, E. & Pether, J. & Mateo, J.A. (2010) -
Tertyshnikov, M.F. (1970) -
Tertyshnikov, M.F. (1978) -
Tertyshnikov, M.F. & Gorovaya, V.I. (1998) -
Tertyshnikov, M.F. & Vysotin, A.G. (1987) -
Тертышников М.Ф., Высотин А.Г. (1987) -
Teskik, I. (1984) -
This study describes the ultrastructure of the tracheal epithelium in the European Common lizard (Lacerta agilis L.) and in the Sand lizard (Lacerta vivipara Jacq .). The main attention is paid to the granular cells of secret-producing type, which form the substantial part of this epithelium and which were observed for the first time in the house gekko . Contrary to the findings in house gekko , in the representatives of the genus Lacerta 2 types of electrondense granules were observed. One type is homogeneous and lighter in colour, the other is darker with lamellar pattern. Among other elements, the ciliated cells as well as basal and plasmatic cells were found. In both species we also succeeded in proving the presence of isolated neurosecret -producing cells.
Teufert, S. (1994) -
Mit dieser Schrift wird die erste, wenn auch knapp gefasste, geschlossene Herpetofauna für den ostsächsischen Raum vorgelegt, die die Ergebnisse von Feldbeobachtungen seit Mitte der 70er Jahre zusammenfasst und in Verbreitungskarten (km²-Raster) dokumentiert sowie die Bestands- und Gefährdungssituation beschreibt und Hinweise zum Arten- und Biotopschutz in dieser Region gibt. Folgende Arten sind präsent: Triturus alpestris, T. cristatus, T. vulgaris, Bufo bufo, B. viridis, B. calamita, Bombina bombina, Hyla arborea, Pelobates fuscus, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta agilis, L. vivipara, Natrix natrix, Coronella austriaca und Vipera berus.
Teufert, S. (2011) -
Teufert, S. (2015) -
Teufert, S. & Werner, M. (2006) -
Tewksbury, J.J. & Huey, R.B. & Deutsch, C.A. (2008) -
Teyssier, A. & Bestion, E. & Richard, M. & Cote, J. (2014) -
Mate choice is known as an important behavior allowing females to choose the best mate to increase their reproductive success. To estimate male quality, females can use multiple traits. Among those, recent studies have shown that male personality traits could play an important role in mate choice as they are often linked to major life-history traits and can be heritable. However, because the relationships between life-history traits and personality traits are context dependent, females are expected to choose male personality types according to the mating context. In this study on common lizards (Zootoca vivipara), we examined the role of personality traits in female mate choice and mating behavior after experimentally manipulating the predation risk experienced by females prior to mating. We showed that females not exposed to predator cues preferred males with high-activity level, a heritable behavior. When females are exposed to predator cues prior to mating, this preference was reversed. High-activity levels generally increase competitive abilities and survival but could be detrimental when predators are present. Our results suggest that female common lizards choose males based on their personality types and can modify their preferences according to their environmental context in order to produce offspring that are better adapted to their environment.
Thanou, E. & Kornilios, P. (2019) -
Theodorides, J. (1949) -
Thieme, U. (1985) -
Thieme, U. & , K.-h. Wittwer (2005) -
Thienpont, S. (2020) -
Thiesmeier, B. (2009) -
Thiesmeier, B. (2010) -
Thiesmeier, B. (2013) -
Thiesmeier, B. (2022) -
Seit mehr als 20 Jahren breiten sich allochthone Mauereidechsen verstärkt in Deutschland aus, über beabsichtigte Aussetzungen, unbeabsichtigte Verschleppungen oder Weiterverbreitungen aus etablierten Populationen. In den letzten Jahren häufen sich Stimmen, die allochthone Mauereidechsen als Gefahr und Bedrohung ansehen, z. B. durch Hybridisierung mit der einheimischen Unterart, durch Verdrängung der Zauneidechse oder durch Schädigung der Biozönose, in der sie leben. In dem vorliegenden Beitrag werden vor allem die ökologischen Argumente gegen allochthone Mauereidechsen diskutiert und auf ihre Stichhaltigkeit überprüft, weiterhin werden wichtige rechtliche Standpunkte vorgestellt. Die ökologischen Argumente haben wenig Substanz und sind nicht geeignet, die Tiere als invasiv zu bezeichnen. Eingebettet in den Diskussionsbeitrag finden sich zahlreiche Gesichtspunkte und Gedanken, warum wir die allochthonen Mauereidechsen auch als Bereicherung und nicht nur als Bedrohung ansehen können.
Thiesmeier, B. & Aßmann, O. & Bohle, D. & Gramentz, D. & Gremlica, B. & Kugel, V. & Otte, N. & Schmitt, G. & Schneeweiß, N. & Schulte, U. & Schwartze, M. & Wartlick, M. (2020) -
Thiesmeier, B. & Kordges, T. (1990) -
Auf der grundlage einer aktuellen Amphibien- und Reptilienkartierung auf der Basis von km²-Rastern im mittleren und östlichen Ruhrgebiet (Essen, Bochum, Dortmund, Hattingen und Herne) wird eine Korrelation zwischen der Tierverbreitung und vier definierten Freiuflächenkategorien der 848 untersuchten Raster hergestellt. Ein urbanisationsindex (Quotient aus den beiden niedrigsten und der höchsten Freiflächenkategorie) wird zur ökologischen Klassifizierung der vorkommenden Arten herangezogen. Eine kritische Diskussion der Begriffe Synanthropie und Hemerophilie führt zur Unterscheidung und Charakterisierung zweier ökologischer Gruppen: 1. Stadtfolger (urbanophile Arten). Der Urbanisationsindex ist größer als 1: Bufo calamita. 2. Stadtflüchter (urbanoohobe Arten). Der Urbanisationsindex ist kleiner als 1: Triturus vulgaris, Triturus alpestris, Rana kl. esculenta-Komplex, Bufo bufo, Rana temporaria, Alytes obstetricans, Lacerta vivipara, Anguis fragilis, Triturus cristatus, Salamandra salamandra, Triturus helveticus, Natrix natrix, Lacerta agilis.
Thiriet, J. (2010) -
Thiriet, J. (2015) -
Die Vorkommen der Smaragdeidechse werden alljährlich im Rahmen der von ODONAT koordinierten Untersuchungen zur Artenvielfalt im Elsass an 17 Standorten untersucht. Die Ergebnisse von 2005 bis 2014 lassen sich wie folgt zusammenfassen: Die Zahl der gefundenen Individuen schwankte zwischen 114 und 259. Trotz dieser erheblichen Schwankungen wird der Bestand insgesamt als stabil betrachtet, wobei eine leichte Abnahme möglich erscheint. Die Entwicklung an einzelnen Standorten war uneinheitlich, es gab signifikante Abnahmen, aber auch Zunahmen. Ursachen für die Abnahmen waren Lebensraumverlust, Intensivierung der Landwirtschaft und zunehmender Einsatz von Pflanzenschutzmitteln.
Thirion, J.-M. & Grillet, P. & Cheylan, M. (2009) -
The diet of the Ocellated Lizard was studied by analysis of scats collected during an annual activity cycie in tne population of Oleron island (Charente-Maritime, France). Scats were collected after ten days from April to October 2002. The study was carried out on a sample of 110 scats. We identified 927 prey items which consisted for more than 60 % of insects, 20 % fruit and 11 % molluscs. Temporal variations consisted in 3 main periods : one at the beginning of spring (April) dominated by the consumption of Coleoptera and arachnids, the second in the middle of summer (July and August) characterized by the consumption of Ephedra fruit and Hymenoptera, and a third (May, June, September and October) which is characterized by the consumption of Coleoptera, Hymenoptera and molluscs. The alimentary intake diversity was highest in two periods of the year (April and August-September) and low in the beginning (March), the middle (June-July) and end (October) of the activity period. Not very mobile prey such as molluscs, Coleoptera and spiders, were preferred. Diet composition is compared to a series of analyses carried out through the species distribution range. This comparison shows that insular populations have a tendency to develop a vegetarian diet, the same as in other lizard species.
Thirion, J.M. & Doré, F. & Adamczyk, A. & Grillet, P. & Cheylan, M. (2008) -
Thirion, J.M. & F. Dore (2011) -
Thirion, J.M. & Vollette, J. & Doré, F. & Grillet, P. & Cheylan, M. (2017) -
Thirion, J.M. & Vollette, J. & Plisson, C. & André, C. & Lafitte, J. & Sourp, E. (2018) -
Monitoring of the population of the Pyrenean rock lizard Iberolacerta bonnali (Lantz, 1927) in the “Val d’Arrious” (Ossau Valley). A monitoring of the population of the Pyrenean rock lizard Iberolacerta bonnali in the Val d’Arrious (Ossau Valley) was established in the Pyrenees National Park. This monitoring allowed mapping the distribution of the Pyrenean rock lizard’s as well as the contact zone with the common wall lizard Podarcis muralis, from the altitude of 2.010 m a.s.l upwards. The habitat of the Pyrenean rock lizard is restricted to the most thermophilous exposures, including Festuca eskia meadows, screes areas, siliceous slabs, and outcrops along with damp boulders and screes where the snow remains, along the stream of Arrious. A capture-mark-recapture study estimated the population size of the Pyrenean Rock Lizard’s population size at 69 individuals (54 - 99 individuals at 95 %), for 2.458 m², i.e. a density of 281 lizards per hectare. The study of the Pyrenean rock lizard of Arrious allowed to make a first inventory of this species and to validate a monitoring method. Other sites will be studied following this protocol to establish a network of sites for long-term monitoring.
Thoen, C. Bauwens, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1986) -
Behavioural cues were used to assay the capacity of common lizards to detect chemical deposits of snakes. The lizards were observed in cages that had been previously inhabited either by one of two species of snake that feed on lizards (the viper Vipera berus and the smooth snake Coronella austriaca), or the grass snake (Natrix natrix), which does not feed on lizards. As a control, the lizards were tested both in a clean cage and in one sprayed with a pungent odorant. The lizards responded to the snakes` chemicals by increased tongue-flick rates, with the highest rates being given in response to the deposits of their predators. The chemosensory examination of the snakes` odours induced a shift in general behaviour in response to the predator, but not to the non-predator chemical cues. This behavioural response consisted mainly of a disruption of the locomotor patterns. Our findings strongly suggest that lizards detected and distinguished between the chemicals deposited by three species of snake. Behavioural performances were highly variable among individual lizards in all trials, but the relative scores of individuals tended to be similar in response to different stimuli.
Thomas, J. (2022) -
The Madeiran wall lizard, Teira dugesii (Milne-Edwards, 1829) is an endemic lizard of the Madeiran archipelago and is widely dispersed throughout different environments. The previous reports of morphological variation of T. dugesii within Madeira have not provided clear patterns but prompted this research into sexual and environment-related differences in morphology. For this study, geometric morphometrics (GMM) techniques combined with phenotypic trajectory analysis were applied to investigate the dorsal and lateral head shape morphology of T. dugesii. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were conducted to assess sexual dimorphism within the species and identify if ecological adaptations towards intertidal and terrestrial habitats occurred in the T. dugesii populations across four different localities within Madeira. Sexual dimorphism accounted for the largest proportion of size and shape variation in head morphology. Males exhibited a larger and more robust head shape compared to that of females which displayed relatively more petite and slender head shapes. Intertidal/terrestrial habitats were associated with head shape variation between sexes. Specimens from terrestrial environments also consistently had larger heads compared to intertidal specimens from the same locality. Additionally, phenotypic trajectory analysis revealed habitat differences in head morphology, again supporting parallel phenotypic divergence across localities between lizards from terrestrial and intertidal habitats.
Thomas, P. (2024) -
Thompson, A. & Kapsanaki, V. & Liwanag, H.E.M. & Pafilis, P. & Wang, J.J. & Brock, K.M. (2023) -
Temperature rules the lives of ectotherms. To perform basic biological functions, ectotherms must make behavioral adjustments to keep their body temperatures near a preferred temperature (Tpref). Many color polymorphic lizards are active thermoregulators and exhibit morph differences in traits related to thermoregulation, such as color, body size, and microhabitat use. The Aegean wall lizard, Podarcis erhardii, is a heliothermic lizard with orange, white, and yellow color morphs that differ in size, behavior, and microhabitat use. Here, we tested whether P. erhardii color morphs from the same population from Naxos island, Greece, differ in Tpref. We hypothesized that orange morphs would prefer lower temperatures than white and yellow morphs because orange morphs are often found on cooler substrates and in microhabitats with more vegetation cover. We obtained Tpref for 95 individuals using laboratory thermal gradient experiments of wild-caught lizards and found that orange morphs do, indeed, prefer cooler temperatures. Average orange morph Tpref was 2.85 C lower than average white and yellow morph Tpref. Our results add support to the idea that P. erhardii color morphs have multivariate alternative phenotypes and present the possibility that thermally heterogeneous environments play a role in the maintenance of color polymorphism in this species.
Thorn, R. (1964) -
Thorpe, R. S. McGregor, D.P. & Cumming, A.M. (1993) -
Restriction fragment length polymorphisms of 6 base pair recognising endonucleases are used to reconstruct the phylogeny of the endemic Canary Island lacertid, Gallotia. The division into conventional species is upheld by this molecular analysis and the western Canary Island lizard (G. galloti) and eastern Canary Island lizard (G. atlantica) are hypothesized to be sister species. A more comprehensive study of the intraspecific relationships of G. galloti, based on nineteen restriction enzymes, indicates that there are distinct southern and northern lineages within this species. The phylogenetic analysis does not uphold the conventional subspecies, but suggests an alternative arrangements with one northern (La Palma, Tenerife) and one southern (Gomera, Hierro) subspecies. The inferred timing of molecular divergence of populations of G. galloti, based on RFLP analysis, is compatible with the geological timing for island origin and fossil data. Mantel tests show that mitochondrial RFLP divergence is correlated with mitochondrial 12s rRNA and cytochrome oxidase I senquence divergence and highly correlated with mitochondrial cytochrome b sequence divergence.
Thorpe, R.S. (1980) -
The grass snake Natrix natrix and the wall lizards Podarcis sicula and P. melisellensis are used as examples to compare the procedure and achievements of the conventional approach to naming subspecies with the use of multivariate morphometries to investigate racial differentiation. The conventional procedure, which has changed little over the last 50 years, fails to take into account the appropriate evolutionary facts or refer to any abstracted levels of divergence necessary for subspecific recognition. Consequently, the patterns of population differentiation are obscured by the recognition of a large number of rather meaningless subspecies. There is a tendency to section clines into artificial categories and arbitrarily delimit subspecies by physiographic features. On the other hand, the use of multivariate morphometries reveals the patterns of population differentiation which can be related to geological events and patterns of differentiation in other species and species groups. The nature of `hybrid` zones and population differentiation enables the relative importance of evolutionary forces such as gene flow, selection and genetic drift to be discussed and provides evidence concerning speciation mechanisms. These techniques also contribute to the discussion regarding the nature of species and provide abstracted and operational criteria for taxonomic decisions. The difference between the results of multivariate analysis and the conventional approach cannot be explained solely on the basis of choice of characters. Some of the advantages and disadvantages of using multivariate morphometries, as opposed to other modern techniques, for investigating racial affinities are discussed.
Thorpe, R.S. (1985) -
berücksichtigt sie nicht die kleinen Inselchen, die von G. galloti bewohnt werden. Auch die bei anderen Eidechsen beobachtete positive Korrelation zwischen Inselgröße und populationsinterner Variabilität existiert nicht bei Gallotia. Dagegen besteht eine sehr eine Beziehung (r ≥ 0.94) zwischen Körpergröße und Variabilität bei allen Populationen von Gallotia, die für beide Geschlechter und verschiedene Merkmalstypen bemerkenswert durchgängig ist. Die Variabilität des Phänotyps wird durch ontogenetische Homoeostase-Mechanismen in der Weise beeinflußt, daß eine starke Tendenz zur Homoeostasis nur eine geringe Variation in der phänotypischen Ausprägung der Gene erlaubt. Umgekehrt gilt infolgedessen, daß die hohe potentielle Wachstumsrate großer Eidechsen einer weniger strengen Kontrolle unterliegt. Hierdurch dürfte zu erklären sein, warum großwüchsige Eidechsenarten eine stärkere phänotypische Variabilität zeigen.
Bisher sind für Gallotia atlantica keine Unterarten beschrieben, während G. galloti mehrere aufweist.Die Streuung von 23 Beschuppungsmerkmalen und 24 Körperproportionen wurde bei G. atlantica mit Hilfe des verallgemeinerten Abstands (Mahalanobis D²) untersucht. Die Unterschiede zwischen atlantica-Populationen von verschiedenen Inseln sind im Durchschnitt geringer als bei solchen von galloti. Die Kanonische Analyse von Beschuppung und Körperproportionen ergibt kein einheitliches Bild von Unterschieden in beiden Merkmalskomplexen. Männchen und Weibchen von Lanzarote sind jedoch größer als solche von anderen Inseln und weichen von diesen auch in einigen Körperproportionen ab.
Thorpe, R.S. (1996) -
Even though, from Darwin onwards, interisland evolution has been a cornerstone of evolutionary theory it has not been possible to determine to what extent this geographic variation reflects the phylogeny (e.g., pattern of island colonization) or ecogenetic adaptation to different ecological conditions on each island. Using the morphology of western Canary Island lacertids (Gallotia galloti) as an example, a procedure is explored that gives a preliminary answer to this problem when there are a limited number of islands. The phylogenetic component (represented by patristic distances derived from 1005 mitochondrial DNA [mtDNA] base pairs) can be separated from two potential ecogenetic factors (environmental richness and climate) by partial Mantel tests. This reveals that, although these components interact, some characters are correlated primarily to biodiversity/paucity (e.g., size), others are correlated to wet and lush environments (e.g., dorsal pattern), and others are correlated primarily to the phylogeny (e.g., sexual leg markings). The former two correlations may be due to ecogenetic adaptation to current ecological conditions, wheras the latter reflects historical processes.
Thorpe, R.S. & Baez, M. (1987) -
Microgeographic variation of the vegetarian lizard Gallotia galloti within the island of Tenerife is described using univariate analysis, correlation, multiple group principal component analysis, canonical analysis, transects, and contours. The size varies locally in a mosaic pattern while head shape shows a WNW–ESE cline in the south. The scalation (scale and femoral pore counts) has two facets to its geographic variation, both of which are incongruent with the primary variation in the size and shape. The scalation shows categorical variation (stepped cline) between northern and southern populations and also a strong clinal relationship with altitude. The possible causes of this variation are considered and adaptation to current ecological conditions appears to be implicated for at least the altitudinal variation, although the pertinent factors are not obvious. It is apparent that vertebrate populations distributed across small islands do not necessarily offer the advantage of a discrete homogeneous unit for evolutionary studies but can offer the opportunity for studying microgeographic variation.
Thorpe, R.S. & Baez, M. (1993) -
The lacertid lizard (Gallotia stehlini), an endemic of Gran Canaria, shows no visually obvious geographic variation, yet all seven scalation characters that were examined exhibit significant geographic variation. The number of collar scales, scales along the ventral trunk and femoral pores are correlated with habitat type, while the number of femoral pores is correlated negatively with altitude. Mantel tests were used to compare simultaneously an observed pattern with three hypothesized patterns (habitat type, altitude and proximity). They indicate that, while several individual characters are significantly associated with the putative causal factors of habitat type and altitude, there is no association between an overall scalation distance matrix and habitat type, or altitude when the effect of proximity is removed. Consequently, one should consider the individual characters as well as the multivariate generalized distances. Some of the observed patterns of geographic variation in scalation are very similar to those of the small scincid lizard Chalcides sexlineatus on Gran Canaria and also parallel the altitudinal and latitudinal variation in the scalation of the Tenerife lacertid (Galotia galloti). The low level of congruence in patterns of geographic variation in individual characters (i.e. some vary with latitude, some with altitude and one varies with longitude) is consistent with the hypothesis that ecogenetically caused geographic variation may result in lower inter-character congruence than phylogenetically caused geographic variation.
Thorpe, R.S. & Black, H. & Malhotra, A. (1996) -
Previous studies using partial regression Mantel tests of matrix correspondence on within-island geographic variation in the color pattern of the Tenerife (Canary Islands) lacertid lizard (Gallotia galloti) support natural selection for different north-south climatically determined biotopes but do not support any historical cause. However, tests on the DNA phylogeny based primarily on population data from 57 localities on Tenerife support the hypothesis that there were populations on two putative precursor islands that have come into secondary contact and introgressed after these islands were joined to form Tenerife by the eruption of the Canadas edifice. Subsequent partial Mantel tests continue to support the hypothesis that color pattern is adapted to the climatic biotopes even when this phylogenetic information is taken into account by (1) testing for color pattern adaptation separately within each lineage and (2) testing for color pattern adaptation across the entire island and simultaneously considering the molecular phylogenetic relationships as representing an alternative explanation. Selection has largely expunged any trace of the geological history from current morphological variation, and the introgression of these island populations after an estimated 0.7 million years of separation gives an insight into the relationships between allopatric divergence and reproductive isolation.
Thorpe, R.S. & Brown, R.P. (1988) -
Within the island of Tenerife the lizard Gallotia galloti shows geographic variation in a range of features, most notably the colour pattern of breeding males. Numerous (7) specific causal hypotheses, both phylogenetic and ecogenetic, are proposed or plausible for this geographic variation and these are simultaneously tested against the observed multivariate pattern. The hypotheses based on the divergence in allopatry (e.g. the secondary contact of populations from the precursor islands of Anaga and Teno and the separation of high- and low-altitude populations by encircling cloud) are rejected. The hypothesis that the pattern is caused by topographically determined climatic differences within the island is not rejected. The climate may influence the balance between selection for signalling colouration for sexual/territorial purposes and natural selection for crypsis.
Thorpe, R.S. & Brown, R.P. (1989) -
This study of the microgeographic variation in the colour pattern of the lizard, Gallotia galloti, within Tenerife has three facets. One, an analysis of the population distribution and density in relation to physical conditions; two, univariate and multivariate descriptions of the pattern of geographic variation; and three, formal testing of a range of causal hypotheses for these geographic patterns. The range is not divided into separate allotheses high- and low-altitude populations by a inaptitude ring of ground-level cloud although there is a drop in population-density in the middle altitudes. Multiple regression indicates that, or the factors measured, this is primarily due to a decrease in insolation. The pattern of geographic variation in the six independent colour pattern characters is portrayed by contouring the 67 locality means. There is generally good congruence among these patterns and a canonical analysis indicates that the generalized pattern of geographic variation is largely unidimensional and can therefore be represented adequately by (and portrayed by contouring) the first canonical variate. Seven causal hypotheses, from a range of possible and previously suggested causes, are considered. The procedure for testing these hypotheses should depend on their dimensionality and that of the observed pattern. Since all the observed and hypothesized patterns are basically unidimensional the seven hypothesized patterns were simultaneously tested against each observed pattern (individual characters and canonical variate) by partial correlation. All the previously suggested ‘phylogenetic’ hypotheses based on divergence in allopatry are rejected. The hypotheses that the geographic variation in the colour pattern is caused by the topographically determined climate cannot be rejected. The character state changes can be explained by a balance between sexual selection for ‘attractive’ colouration and natural selection, via predation, for cryptic colouration.
Thorpe, R.S. & Brown, R.P. (1991) -
Thorpe, R.S. & Malhotra, A. (1996) -
Although explicit rules can be used to hypothesise an inter-island colonization sequence from a molecular phylogeny, and statistical methods can be used to assist in partitioning historical factors from current selective factors, this latter process has limited efficacy where there are a limited number of islands. Studying numerous populations within small, but heterogenous, islands allows a better understanding of the factors causing geographic variation. Three main approaches have been used to study within-island geographic variation using lizards on Canarian and Lesser Antillean archipelagos: (i) matrix correspondence tests and their partial regression/correlation extensions on morphological and molecular data; (ii) identification of within island patterns of morphological geographic variation paralleled on independent islands; and (iii) large scale field experiments on selection. These studies reveal that, even on small islands, ‘island populations’ may not be homogeneous in morphology, or molecular phylogeny, and that natural selection for current ecological conditions appears to be a primary force influencing morphological population differentiation, irrespective of phylogenetic history.
Thorpe, R.S. & Malhotra, A. (1998) -
Thorpe, R.S. & Malhotra, A. & Black, H. & Daltry, J.C. & Wüster, W. (1995) -
Observed patterns of within-species geographic variation may reflect phylogenetic history or ecogenetic adaptation, and it is frequently desirable to evaluate their relative contributions. Phylogenetic information can be recovered from relatively neutrally evolving molecular markers, but to what extent are they useful in understanding the causes of observed geographic patterns within species? In the lacertid lizard Gallotia galloti (Western Canary islands), it allows the colonization sequence to be hypothesized, giving a new perspective on the causes of morphological differentiation between island populations. In South-East Asian pit-viperes, venom evolution can be evaluated in relation to beogeographic processes and current ecology. At a finer geographic scale, alternative historical and geological hypotheses can be tested to explain within-island microgeographic variation in G. galloti in Tenerife. Similar work on Anolis oculatus within the island of Dominica, however, raises questions concerning some of the assumptions behind a molecular phylogenetic approach.
Thorpe, R.S. & McGregor, D.P. & Cumming, A.M. & Jordan, W.C. (1994) -
A novel source of nuclear DNA information from random amplified polymorphisms (RAPD) and a wide‐range mitochondrial DNA information (cytochrome b, cytochrome oxidase, and 12s rRNA sequence, RFLP from 4‐base and 6‐base recognition endonucleases) are used to reconstruct the population phylogeny of the western Canary Island lizard, Gallotia galloti, which, for geological reasons, has been subject to dispersal but not vicariance. Interpretation of DNA phylogenies in terms of colonization sequence indicates that G. galloti arose in Tenerife and dispersed westward in two independent pathways: north from north Tenerife to La Palma, and south from south Tenerife to Gomera to Hierro. The direction and timing of colonization by DNA divergence is entirely compatible with geological time and sequence of island origin.
Thorpe, R.S. & Watt, K. & Báez, M. (1985) -
Die Verbreitung und Inkonsistenz einiger konventioneller diagnostischer Merkmale bei zwei rezenten Formen von Gallotia (galloti und atlantica) sind Anlaß zu einer Untersuchung, ob es sich bei diesen um eigenständige Arten handelt. Phylogenetische und multivariate Analysen einer großen Anzahl von Merkmalen der Beschuppung und von Körperproportionen zeigen, daß die Unterschiede zwischen galloti und atlantica durchgehend größer sind als zwischen Populationen beider Formen; sie sind also “gute” Arten. Es gibt einige, allerdings nicht eindeutige Hinweise darauf, daß es sich bei galloti und stehlini um Sachesternarten handelt, während atlantica mit beiden weniger nah verwandt ist.
Thunhorst, T. (1999) -
Ti, X. & Lu, W. (1984) -
Tian, L. & Guo, X. (2022) -
Comparative studies on mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) as well as the structure and evolution of the mitochondrial control region are few in the Lacertidae family. Here, the complete mitogenomes of five individuals of Eremias scripta (2 individuals), Eremias nikolskii, Eremias szczerbaki, and Eremias yarkandensis were determined using next-generation sequencing and were compared with other lacertids available in GenBank. The circular mitogenomes comprised the standard set of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes and a long non-coding control region (CR). The extent of purifying selection was less pronounced for the COIII and ND2 genes in comparison with the rest of the PCGs. The codons encoding Leucine (CUN), Threonine, and Isolecucine were the three most frequently present. The secondary structure of rRNA of Lacertidae (herein, E. scripta KZL15 as an example) comprised four domains and 28 helices for 12S rRNA, with six domains and 50 helices for 16S rRNA. Five types and twenty-one subtypes of CR in Lacertidae were described by following the criteria of the presence and position of tandem repeats (TR), termination-associated sequence 1 (TAS1), termination-associated sequence 2 (TAS2), conserved sequence block 1 (CBS1), conserved sequence block 2 (CSB2), and conserved sequence block 3 (CSB3). The compositions of conserved structural elements in four genera, Acanthodactylus, Darevskia, Eremias, and Takydromus, were further explored in detail. The base composition of TAS2 – TATACATTAT in Lacertidae was updated. In addition, the motif “TAGCGGCTTTTTTG” of tandem repeats in Eremias and the motif ”GCGGCTT” in Takydromus were presented. Nucleotide lengths between CSB2 and CSB3 remained 35 bp in Eremias and Darevskia. The phylogenetic analyses of Lacertidae recovered the higher-level relationships among the three subfamilies and corroborated a hard polytomy in the Lacertinae phylogeny. The phylogenetic position of E. nikolskii challenged the monophyly of the subgenus Pareremias within Eremias. Some mismatches between the types of CR and their phylogeny demonstrated the complicated evolutionary signals of CR such as convergent evolution. These findings will promote research on the structure and evolution of the CR and highlight the need for more mitogenomes in Lacertidae.
Tiedemann, F. (1985) -
Tiedemann, F. (1987) -
Tiedemann, F. (1989) -
Tiedemann, F. (1990) -
Tiedemann, F. (1991) -
Das Vorkommen von Acanthodactylus opheodurus ARNOLD, 1980 und von Coluber ventromaculatus GRAY, 1834 wird erstmals aus dem Emirat Abudhabi und damit auch aus den Vereinigten Arabnischen Emiraten gemeldet. A. opheodurus konnte am Fuße des Jebel Hafit, südlich von Al Ain, nachgewiesen werden. Das nächstgelegene bekannte Vorkommen befindet sich ungheähr 500 km westlich davon in Saudi Arabien. Weiters erwies sich eine Natter von der Insel Sir Bani Yas als C. ventromaculatus. Dieser Fund erweitert das bisher bekannte Verbreitungsgebiet dieser Schlange auf der Arabische Halbinsel um etwa 280 km in Richtung Südosten.
Tiedemann, F. (1992) -
The story of discovery of Austrian populations of Horvath`s Rock Lizard (Lacerta horvathi MÉHELY, 1904) is briefly outlined. A chart of all locality records hitherto known in Austria (Cannthia) is provided, including first records from the Karawanken Mts. The fruitless attempts to confirm Bavarian records of this species and to ascertain its presence in the Tyrol are reported.
Tiedemann, F. (1997) -
Tiedemann, F. & Cabela, A. & Grillitsch, H. (2001) -
Tiedemann, F. & Grillitsch, H. (1999) -
The authors submit a supplement to the 1994 catalogues of type specimens of the herpetological collection at the Natural History Museum, Vienna (Austria). Additions comprise amphibian and reptile type specimens designated after January 1st, 1994 as well as specimens which were not recognized as types earlier.
Tiedemann, F. & Häupl, M. (1994) -
Tiedemann, F. & Häupl, M. & Grillitsch, H. (1994) -
Tiedemann, F. & Henle, K. (1986) -
Tiedemann, F. & Mayer,W. (1980) -
Tiemann, G. (1970) -
Tiergarten Schönbrunn (2015) -
Tiesler, W. (1903) -
Tijsse-Klasen, E. & Fonville, M. & Reimerink, J.H.J. & Spitzen, A. & van der Sluijs, H.S. (2010) -
Background: Lizards are considered zooprophylactic for almost all Borrelia burgdorferi species, and act as dilution hosts in parts of North America. Whether European lizards significantly reduce the ability of B. burgdorferi to maintain itself in enzootic cycles, and consequently decrease the infection rate of Ixodes ricinus ticks for B. burgdorferi and other tickborne pathogens in Western Europe is not clear. Results: Ticks were collected from sand lizards, their habitat (heath) and from the adjacent forest. DNA of tick-borne pathogens was detected by PCR followed by reverse line blotting. Tick densities were measured at all four locations by blanket dragging. Nymphs and adult ticks collected from lizards had a significantly lower (1.4%) prevalence of B. burgdorferi sensu lato, compared to questing ticks in heath (24%) or forest (19%). The prevalence of Rickettsia helvetica was significantly higher in ticks from lizards (19%) than those from woodland (10%) whereas neither was significantly different from the prevalence in ticks from heather (15%). The prevalence of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia spp in heather (12%) and forest (14%) were comparable, but significantly lower in ticks from sand lizards (5.4%). The prevalence of Babesia spp in ticks varied between 0 and 5.3%. Tick load of lizards ranged from 1 - 16. Tick densities were ~ 5-fold lower in the heather areas than in woodlands at all four sites. Conclusions: Despite their apparent low reservoir competence, the presence of sand lizards had insignificant impact on the B. burgdorferi s.l. infection rate of questing ticks. In contrast, sand lizards might act as reservoir hosts for R. helvetica. Remarkably, the public health risk from tick-borne diseases is approximately five times lower in heather than in woodland, due to the low tick densities in heather.
Tikader, B.K. & Sharma, R.C. (1992) -
Tilmans R.A.M. (2003) -
Tilmans, R.A.M. (1998) -
De Levendbarende hagedis (Locerto vivípara, JACQUIN, 1787 ) is één van de vier soorten hagedissen die Limburg rijk is. Volgens de Rode Lijst van Reptielen en Amfibieën in Nederland (CREEMERS, 1996) is de soort `thans niet bedreigd`. In dit artikel wordt het belang geschetst van weidepalen als biotoop voor deze hagedis en als inventarisatie-object voor de herpetoloog. Dan zal ook duidelijk worden dat nog lang niet alle voorkomens van de Levendbarende hagedis in Limburg bekend zijn.
Tilmans, R.A.M. (2001) -
An invenrory made in Augusr 2000 shows rhar rhe rarely used railway embankmenr berween Wijlre and Eys is an inreresring habirar for rhe Viviparous lizard and rhe Slow worm. Orher disused railway embank- menrs near Maasrrichr, Winrerswijk, Roermond and in Belgium and Germany rurn our ro be favourire places for repriles such as Grass snake, Smoorh snake, Adder, Common wall lizard, Sand lizard, Viviparous lizard and Slow worm. Especially rhe wooden sleepers are an imporranr habirar for repri- les. The conservarion of popularions leans rherefore for a grear parr upon rhe conservarion of wooden sleepers. Alrhough railway embankmenrs are usually free of shadow, making rhem suirable habirars for repriles, rhe use of herbicides and rhe frequenr high-speed rrain rraffic mighr presenr serious rhrears ro repriles. On rhe orher hand, disused or rarely used railway lines are more likely ro become overgrown by high vegerarion, which can lead ro popularions becoming isolared. Ir is clear rhar fine-runed managemenr can give railway lines an imporranr role as ecological highways for several species of repriles.
Tilmans, R.A.M. (2009) -
Timberlake, J.R. (1998) -
The Regional Office for Southern Africa of IUCN (IUCN-ROSA), in conjunction with the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), initiated the Zambezi Basin Wetlands Conservation and Resource Utilisation Project (ZBWCRUP) in 1996. This project is aimed at ensuring wise use of natural resources of the wetlands of the Zambezi Basin, focussing in particular on four project sites (the Barotse floodplains in western Zambia, the floodplains and swamps of the Chobe/Caprivi region of Namibia and Botswana, the wetlands of the Lower Shire in southern Malawi and Mozambique, and the Zambezi Delta in Mozambique). One of the project activities is to assess the importance of biodiversity from a conservation perspective, both for the four wetland areas and for the wetlands of the Zambezi Basin as a whole. The Zambezi Society and the Biodiversity Foundation for Africa were invited to carry out this component as Phase 1 of larger project. This volume, the resulting report, consists of a compilation, evaluation and assessment of existing published technical information on the biodiversity of these wetlands. An annotated bibliography containing 979 references on organismal and ecological biodiversity was compiled, and an edited version of 942 references (excluding those not strictly concerning biodiversity) is presented in an electronic database format. A series of 59 keywords, covering geographical area, biological group and subject area, has been used to facilitate search and retrieval. Coverage in the literature is very uneven, both for geographical area and biological group. The best documented areas are the Kafue Flats, the Chobe/Caprivi area and Lake Kariba. Barotseland and the Zambezi Delta are particularly poorly documented given their size. The best covered groups are plants, large mammals, birds and fish. Information on small mammals and most invertebrate groups is very limited. Knowledge on taxonomy of the various groups is generally good, with the exception of many invertebrate groups where even a rough indication of numbers of species present is not available. Checklists have been prepared for some groups and for some wetland areas, but there are gaps which preclude, at this stage, a detailed comparison of biodiversity between wetlands and across the basin. Literature on the ecological role, function and productivity of wetland organisms is very scant for the area. Although there are a number of species restricted to the wetlands of the Zambezi Basin in a number of different groups, detailed listings are not yet available except for large mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. The lechwe antelope (with three subspecies endemic to the floodplains of the proto-Upper Zambezi) and the Wattled Crane (seasonally with 90% of the world population in the wetlands of the Zambezi Basin) are possibly the best “flagship species” for conservation of the wetlands, encompassing most of the major concerns and issues. The clear division of the Zambezi Basin into three physical and biogeographical sections ! Upper, Middle and Lower ! is described. Biological composition differs greatly between the Upper and Middle/Lower sections, and is thought to be a result of comparatively recent river capture of the proto-Upper Zambezi (which originally included the Bangweulu swamps, Kafue, Kavango and Okavango) by the more recent Middle Zambezi. The instability and biological youth of many of the Zambezi wetlands, particularly the swamps, is discussed. This is shown to be a major factor in their relatively homogeneous composition across the basin. The floodplains of the proto-Upper Zambezi are seen as having been more stable over recent evolutionary time. They appear to be more species-rich and hold a greater number of species of limited distribution than the swamps. Although perhaps less heavily modified than many river basins in Africa, the Zambezi has been greatly changed in its middle section by large impoundments at Kariba and Cabora Bassa, as well as on the Kafue at Itezhi-Tezhi and on the upper reaches of tributaries in Zimbabwe. Biodiversity composition has been greatly modified in both obvious and indirect ways through the creation of new habitats, facilitation of distribution of species, and through reduced flooding. The effects of flood control in the Zambezi Delta have given rise to conservation concerns, but documentation is hampered by lack of baseline information. However, on the Upper Zambezi any changes in hydrology, extent of wetlands and biodiversity are principally a result of climatic cycles rather than the effects of human activities. Expertise in organismal biodiversity, both regional and international, was compiled into a database with 135 persons cited. This database, by no means exhaustive, is also presented in an electronic format with keywords to enable rapid searching. The major groups covered are plants and birds, and most of the expertise cited is based in Zimbabwe or South Africa. Expertise in many invertebrate and microscopic groups is dangerously limited. The important role of amateur naturalists is pointed out, particularly for birds, large mammals and butterflies. Twenty four recommendations are given. Some are general and apply equally to the whole basin, whilst some cover research topics. It is suggested that a basin-wide perspective is required for conservation, and to achieve this a series of vegetation maps with a common legend are required, more attention needs to be paid to old floodplains and dambos, and detailed reviews of selected biological groups should be carried out. Sites of particular conservation interest need to be identified, as do those wetland species in need of active conservation measures. A series of monitoring sites should ideally be set up across the basin which can be used to detect change due to human impact. The final general recommendation is to make biodiversity information more accessible through appropriate publications and media releases. On the research side, investigation is required into wetland ecological processes and resilience, the effects of river impoundment on the wetlands of the Zambezi Basin, and the potential for use of aquatic organisms as indicator species. Specific recommendations, some of which could be addressed by ZWCRUP, are a revision and publication of the annotated bibliography incorporating a more concise review, and a series of activities related to the four sub-project sites. These include biodiversity inventory of selected groups, production of compatible vegetation maps, identification of sites of conservation interest, and an assessment of the effects of land use change on biodiversity. The site-specific activities are spelled out in detail.
Timon-David, J. & Timon-David, P. (1967) -
Timoshina, A.L. & Matushkina, K.A. & Kidov, A.A. & Kovalev, A.V. & Kovrina, E.G. (2013) -
Timovic, L. & Timotijevioc, M. & Ajtic, R. & Krizmanic, I. & Labus, N. (2018) -
Kosovo and Metohija have already been recognized as regions with the highest diversity of reptiles in Serbia, where 92% (22 of 24) of existing reptile species can be found (Tomović et al., 2015a). First comprehensive contribution to herpetofauna of Kosovo and Metohija was provided by late Professor Gojko Pasuljević. In this study we present a complete dataset of distribution records for 13 most common reptile species in Kosovo and Metohija, including published and new distribution data compiled, and provide standardized 10 x 10 km UTM maps for these data. Results of this study include 1013 distribution records (278 new and 735 published data) for the following reptiles: Testudo hermanni, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta viridis, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis tauricus, Coronella austriaca, Dolichophis caspius, Natrix natrix, Natrix tessellata, Zamenis longissimus and Vipera ammodytes. The most widely distributed species, which occupy more than 50 UTM 10 x 10 km squares are: Podarcis muralis and Vipera ammodytes. Species with limited distribution which occupy less than 20 UTM 10 x 10 km are: Dolichophis caspius and Lacerta agilis. The largest numbers of new or confirmed literature data are recorded for: Anguis fragilis, Testudo hermanni and Vipera ammodytes. Having in mind that after 50 years, this is the first comprehensive study of the distribution of reptiles in Kosovo and Metohija exclusively, the presented faunistic data are far from being complete. Further systematic studies should provide a more complete insight into the distribution of herpetofauna of this province of Serbia.
Tishakova, K.V. & Lisachov, A.P. & Galkina, S.A. & Saifidinova, A.F. & Romanenko, S.A. & Adreyushkova, D.A. & Davletshina, G.I. & Trifonov, V.A. (2019) -
Titlbach, M. (1967) -
The islets of Langerhans in two species of lizards — Lacerta agilis and Lacerta viridis — were studied light- and electron microscopically. 2. The islets prefer in their distribution the middle part of the gland, the endocrine cells are arranged as a epithelial layer around capillaries. 3. By light microscopy two different cell types — A- and B-cells — could be distinguished according to their staining reactions. A-cells are elongated elements; one pole extends to the capillary. The B-cells are cuboidal and less frequent. Islet cells are easy to differentiate from acinar cells by the size of their nucleolus. In lizards no combination of smaller ducts with the islets like in other reptiles was observed. 4. With the electron microscope 3 different cell types were detected according to the size, form and electron density of their granules. A cells contain the smallest granules with highest electron density, their mean diameter is 193±37 nm. The osmiophilic content of the β-granules appears as a starlike complex of small fibers, the diameter of the β-granules is 250±56 nm. The cytoplasma of B-cells contains frequently small quantities of glycogen. The appearance of the third cell type — the D-cells — varies considerably with the fixation method applied: osmium-tetroxid preserves only the membrane of the granules, which appear as empty vacuoles. Glutaraldehydfixation reveals a faintly osmiophilic content in the granules, which is less electron dense than that of the α-granules. δ-granules are the largest of all 3 cell types (mean diameter 277±53 nm), their cytoplasm contains small amounts of glycogen.
1. Das licht- und elektronenmikroskopisohe Bild der Langerhansschen Inseln von Lacerta agilis und Lacerta viridis stimmt überein. 2. Die Langerhansschen Inseln liegen vorwiegend in mittleren Abschnitten des Pankreas. Die Achse der Insel bildet eine Kapillare, um welche die endokrinen Zellen radiär angeordnet sind. 3. Lichtmikroskopisch unterscheidet man mit Sicherheit aufgrund der Färbbarkeit der Zellen bzw. ihrer Granula A- und B-Zellen. Die A-Zellen pflegen zumeist höher zu sein; am Kapillarpol sind sie oftmals verschmälert. Zwischen die A-Zellen sind niedrigere und breitere B-Zellen eingefügt. Im Gesamtbild herrschen Zellen mit färberischen Eigenschaften der A-Zellen vor. Die Inselzellen unterscheiden sich eindeutig von den zymogenen Zellen durch die Größe der Nukleolen. In den Inseln fanden wir weder kleine Ausführungsgänge noch andere Lumina. 4. Elektronenmikroskopisch fanden wir drei Zelltypen, die sich in ihrem Aussehen und in der Größe der Granula unterscheiden. Zum Teil hängt die Struktur der Zellen von der Art der Fixation ab. Die A-Zellen enthalten die kleinsten und dichtesten Granula (Durchmesser der -Granula 193±37 nm, der -Granula 250±56 nm). Nach OsO4Fixation wird die osmiophile Substanz der -Granula durch einen sternförmigen Komplex von zarten Fäserchen repräsentiert. Regelmäßig enthält das Cytoplasma der B-Zellen eine kleine Menge von Glykogen. Die Fixation beeinflußt am stärksten das Bild der D-Zellen. Während nach OsO4 Fixierung von den meisten Granula nur die Hüllmembranen erhalten bleiben, sind die Körnchen nach Glutaraldehyd-OsO4-Fixation gut erhalten. Die Granula der D-Zellen sind am größten (Durchmesser 277±53 nm), weniger dicht und unregelmäßiger geformt als die der A-Zellen. Das Cytoplasma der D-Zellen enthält ebenfalls eine geringe Menge von Glykogen.
Titone, V. & Marsiglia, F. & Mangiacotti, M. & Sacchgi, R. & Scali, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2017) -
Territoriality evolves when the benefits gained from exclusive access to limited resources exceed the costs of defence. Sometimes animals evolve distinct morphs, that may reflect different capability, and in some territorial species of lizards the polymorphism is associated to alternative strategies, both for reproductive efficiency and territorial dominance. It is known that normally larger males are more aggressive and are able to defend a larger area and for longer than small males; in fact this dynamic is widespread in many animal species including the genus Podarcis. The aim of our study was to test which factors determine the outcome of fighting in the strongly territorial Italian ruin lizard, Podarcis siculus, using two types of contests: (1) resident versus intruder and (2) in a neutral arena. Furthermore, because these lizards are characterized by strong ventral colour variability, usually restricted to jaws and throat, we wanted to investigate if coloured lizards have higher chances at winning than white lizards. The results showed that the fight`s result was significantly influenced by the state of residence, while the colour had no effect; instead, the snout to vent length difference between opponents had significant influence on the outcome in the neutral arena. Our results suggest that, in this lizard, both the size and the state of residency, no matter of colour, play an important role to determine the outcome of a fight, however, highly depending on the contest. We think that P. siculus should be object of future studies, focusing on behavioural and ecological aspects, even considering the occurrence of different colours within and among populations.
Tofohr, O. (1898) -
Tofohr, O. (1899) -
Tofohr, O. (1900) -
Tofohr, O. (1901) -
Tofohr, O. (1902) -
Tofohr, O. (1903) -
Tofohr, O. (1904) -
Tofohr, O. (1905) -
Tofohr, O. (1907) -
Tofohr, O. (1908) -
Tofohr, O. (1909) -
Tofohr, O. (1910) -
Tofohr, Otto (1902) -
Tok, C.V. (1992) -
Tok, C.V. (1993) -
Tok, C.V. (1999) -
Eleven species from six families of lizards have been found in the Resadiye (Datça) Peninsula between the years 1990-1993. In this survey the morphological characteristics such as pholodosis, color-pattern and body measurement and ratios have been investigated. Systematic positions the species of which we have a sufficient number of samples were more accurate in terms of morphological characteristics. Besides, the biological and ecological information on the species were also given.
Özet: 1990-1993 yılları arasında Reşadiye (Datça) Yarımadası’nda 6 familyaya dahil 11 kertenkele türü bulunmuştur. Çalışmada bu türlerin morfolojik karakterleri (Pholidosis, renk-desen özellikleri, vücut ölçüm ve oranları) incelenmiştir. Yeterli sayıda örnek temin edilen türlerin taksonomik durumlarına açıklık getirilmeye çalışılmıştır. Ayrıca türlere ait biyolojik ve eklolojik özellikler verilmiştir.
Tok, C.V. & Afsar, M. & Yakin, B.Y. & Ayez, D. & Çiçek, K. (2017) -
This study describes a new subspecies of Ophisops elegans from vicinity of Mut, Mersin, Turkey and named Ophisops elegans budakibarani n. subsp. The new subspecies is distinguished from geographically the closest subspecies O. elegans basoglui, found in the south of its distribution, by having higher number of the longitudinal row of scales+plates at mid-trunk (SPM) and a characteristic venter coloration (whitish coloration instead of lemon yellow color in venter of both sexes during the breeding season) and from O. elegans centralanatoliae, found in the north of its distribution, by having lower number of SPM and a characteristic dorsum color-pattern (less distinct tile reddish-brown coloration in the temporal band, missing large blackish spots in the vertebral and paravertebral area).
Tok, C.V. & Çevic, I.E. & Sayman, A. (1997) -
This survey contains a detailed morphological review of Ophisops elegans population from Hatay, and furthermore, a comparison of Ankara (O.e.centralanatoliae), Van (O.e.elegans) and Hatay populations, which are quite similar in colour feature. Comparisons are based on the number of dorsal scales+ventral plates at mid-trunk Ñthe important character used to recognize the subspecies of O.elegansÑ and the number of temporals, which carry less significance. No discrimination among the subspecies is possible based on the number of temporals, which show wide variation. The Ankara and Van populations are distinct from one another in accordance with the main characteristic (the number of dorsal scales+ventral plates at mid-trunk), as pointed out by Bodenheimer (1) and Öktem (2). The Hatay population, however, shows more similarity to the Van population based on this characteristic. O.e.ehrenbergi is not recorded in the districts of Hatay, and according to the literature, O.e.ehrenbergi is found in the regions of Turkey neighboring Syria. The existence of O.e.ehrenbergi in Turkey is doubtful and we believe that this conclusion should be supported by new material collected from the regions bordering Syria. In this study, the Ophisops elegans population from Hatay was attributed to the nominate subspecies O.e.elegans.
Tok, C.V. & Cicek, K. (2014) -
This study presents distribution maps of the amphibians and reptiles in the Province of Çanakkale (Marmara Region, Turkey), based on information from field studies conducted at intervals between 2002 and 2013, and the existing literature records. The herpetological inventory comprises 43 species, nine amphibians (three urodelans and six anurans) and 34 reptiles (five turtles, 14 lizards and 15 snakes). The species belong to 15 chorotypes according to the classification by vIGnA TAGlIAnTI et al. (1999). Podarcis siculus (RAFIneSque-SChMAlTZ, 1810) and Elaphe sauromates (PAllAS, 1811) represent first records from the Peninsulas of Biga and Gelibolu. environmental factors that constitute threats to the herpetological species in the Province of Çanakkale are briefly addressed.
Tok, C.V. & Cicek, K. & Hayretdag, S. & Tayhan, Y. & Yakin, B.Y. (2015) -
A record of the Italian Wall Lizard, Podarcis siculus (Rafinesque-Schmaltz, 1810) from Atakum (Samsun, the Central Black Sea Region) was provided in this study. In addition, 5 specimens (3 ♂♂and 2♀♀) from Atakum (Samsun) and 14 specimens (7♂♂ and 7♀♀) from Gelibolu (Çanakkale, Thrace), with the record provided recently, were evaluated in terms of measurements, pholidosis, and colour-pattern. With the record from Samsun, its distributional range was extended about 360 km eastwards. The specimens examined from both localities were determined to resemble P.s.hieroglyphicus (Berthold, 1840), distributed in Thrace and Anatolia. Moreover, some information on the breeding biology of the specimens was provided.
Tok, C.V. & Günay, U.K. & Yakin, B.Y. & Kaplan, Ç. (2018) -
In this study, herpetofauna and avifauna of the Araplar Gorge where is located in Ezine/Çanakkale, and its vicinity were examined. The Araplar Gorge is an important area because of its location as one of the secondary migration pathway of birds in Çanakkale. In the study area; all data were evaluated from the field studies and researches between 2003 and 2016; as a result five amphibian, 24 reptile and 147 bird species were identified. According to IUCN Red List; all of the observed amphibian specimens were in DD and LC. Two of the reptile specimens were listed as VU [Testudo graeca, Malpolon insignitus] and one specimen was listed as NT (Emys orbicularis). All other reptile specimens were listed as LC. In avifauna; three specimens were listed as VU (Streptopelia turtur, Clanga clanga, Aquila heliaca), one specimen was listed as NT (Vanellus vanellus) and all other bird species were listed as LC. The biodiversity importance and necessity of the protection of the area were emphasized.
Bu çalışmada, Çanakkale, Ezine ilçesine bağlı Araplar Boğazı civarı herpetofauna ve avifauna açısından araştırılmıştır. Araplar Boğazı; Çanakkale’de bulunan tali kuş göç yollarından biri olması sebebiyle çalışma alanı önem taşımaktadır. Bu alanda 2003-2016 yılları arasında yapılan tüm çalışmalardan elde edilen veriler değerlendirilmiş; beş amfibi, 24 sürüngen ve 147 kuş türü tespit edilmiştir. IUCN Kırmızı Listesi verilerine göre alanda rastlanan amfibi türleri DD ve LC kategorilerine dahildir. Sürüngen türlerinden ise; iki tür [Testudo graeca (Tosbağa), Malpolon insignitus (Çukurbaşlı yılan)] VU; bir tür [Emys orbicularis (Benekli kaplumbağa)] NT kategorisindendir. Diğer türler LC kategorisine dahildir. Avifaunadan ise; üç tür [Streptopelia turtur (Üveyik), Clanga clanga (Büyük orman kartalı), Aquila heliaca (Şah kartal)] VU (Hassas), bir tür [Vanellus vanellus (Kızkuşu)] NT (Tehdide Yakın) kategorisinde olup, diğer türler ise LC (Düşük Tehdit) statüsünde değerlendirilmektedir. Söz konusu alanın biyoçeşitlilik açısından önemi ve korunması gerekliliği vurgulanmıştır.
Tok, C.V. & Gürkan, M. & Yakin, B.Y. & Hayretdag, S. (2013) -
In this study, age determination was performed with the method of skeletochronology in 23 (13 ♂♂, 10 ♀♀) Ophisops elegans specimens collected from Çanakkale in the west of Turkey and 20 (10 ♂♂, 10 ♀♀) Ophisops elegans specimens collected from the vicinity of AkĢehir-Eber in the Central Anatolia Region. The mean ages of the specimens whose femur cross sections had been examined were determined to be 2.9±0.99 (1-4) in females and 2.85±0.68 (2-4) in males of the Çanakkale population and 3.9±1.19 (3-6) in females and 4.6±1.17 (3-6) in males of the AkĢehir-Eber population. The oldest age among the specimens was found to be six in two female and three male individuals of the AkĢehir-Eber population. When all specimens were evaluated altogether, the correlation between snoutvent length and age was computed as (r=0.572, p=0.008) in females and as (r=0.642, p=0.001) in males.
Tok, C.V. & Gürkan, M. & Yakin, B.Y. & Hayretdağ, Y.S. (2013) -
Tok, C.V. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Türkozan, O. (1997) -
Tok, C.V. & Parlak, S. & Cicek, K. (2016) -
The study presents data on the food composition of the snake-eyed lizard (Ophisops elegans), from Gökçeada (Imbros), Çanakkale, Turkey. A total of 94 preys were determined in the digestive systems of 20 individuals (10 males, 10 females) examined in the study. Insects (67%) constitute most of its food composition. Major prey groups in the food composition are included in Aranea (13%), Lepidoptera (13%), Coleoptera (19%), and Homoptera (20%) in numeric proportion. No significant difference was observed between sexes considering food composition.
Tok, C.V. & Parlak, S. & Çiçek, K. (2016) -
Tok, C.V. & Ugurtas, I.H. & Sevinc, M. & Böhme, W. & Crochet, P. & Turiyev, B. & Kaya, U. (2008) -
Tok, V. & Ugurtas, I. & Sevinc, M. & Böhme, W. & Crochet, P.-A. & Tuniyev, B. & Kaja, U. (2009) -
Tok, V. & Ugurtas, I. &Sevinc, M. & Crochet, P.-A. & Kaska, Y. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Avci, A. (2009) -
Tok, V. & Ugurtas, I.H. & Sevinc, M. & Böhme, W. & Crochet, P.-A. & Mousa Disi, A.M. & Anderson, S. & Kaya, U. (2009) -
Tokarskaya, O.N. & Darevsky, I.S. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Badaeva, T.N. & Korochkin, L.I. & Danielyan, F.D. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Ryskov, A.P. (2003) -
Tokarskaya, O.N. & Kan, N.G. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Martirosyan I.A. & Grechko, V.V. & Danielyan, F.D. & Darevsky, I.S. & Ryskov. A.P. (2001) -
Multilocus DNA fingerprinting has been used to study the variability of some mini- and microsatellite sequences in parthenogenetic species of Caucasian rock lizards of the genus Lacerta (L. dahli, L. armeniaca and L. unisexualis). We demonstrate that these clonally reproducing lizards possess species-specific DNA fingerprints with a low degree of intra- and interpopulation variation. Mean indices of similarity obtained using M13 DNA, (GACA)4 and (TCC)50 as probes were 0.962 and 0.966 in L. dahli and L. armeniaca, respectively. The mean index of similarity obtained using M 13 and GATA probes in L. unisexualis was estimated to be 0.95. However, despite the high degree of band-sharing, variable DNA fragments were revealed in all populations with the microsatellite probes. An particularly high level of variability was observed for (TCC)n microsatellites in populations of L. unisexualis. In fact TCC-derived DNA fingerprints were close to being individual-specific, with a mean index of similarity of 0.824. Fingerprint analysis of parthenogenetic families of L. armeniaca showed that all maternal fragments were inherited together by the progeny, and no differences in fingerprint patterns were observed. On the other hand, while identical DNA fingerprints were obtained from L. unisexualis families with M13 and (GATA)4 probes, use of the (TCC)50 probe revealed remarkable intrafamily variation in this species. It is assumed that the genetic heterogeneity observed in parthenogenetic populations may be explained, at least in part, by the existence of genetically unstable microsatellite loci. Our data serve to illustrate processes of spontaneous mutagenesis and the initial stages of clonal differentiation in natural populations of the lizard species studied.
Tokarskaya, O.N. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Badaeva, T.N. & Malysheva, D.N. & Korchagin, V.I. & Darevsky, I.S. & Danielyan, F.D. & Ryskov, A.P. (2004) -
Mini- and microsatellites, comprising tandemly repeated short nucleotide sequences, are abundant dispersed repetitive elements that are ubiquitous in eukaryotic genomes. In humans and other bisexual species hypervariable mini- and microsatellite loci provide highly informative systems for monitoring of germline and somatic instability. However, little is known about the mechanisms by which these loci mutate in species that lack effective genetic recombination. Here, multilocus DNA fingerprinting was used to study M13 minisatellite and (GATA) n microsatellite instability in the parthenogenetic Caucasian rock lizard Darevskia unisexualis (Lacertidae). DNA fingerprinting of 25 parthenogenetic families, from six isolated populations in Armenia (comprising a total of 84 siblings), using the oligonucleotide (GATA)4 as a hybridization probe, revealed mutant fingerprinting phenotypes in 13 siblings that differed from their mothers in several restriction DNA fragments. In three families (8 siblings), the mutations were present in the germline. Moreover, the mutant fingerprint phenotypes detected in siblings were also present in population DNA samples. No intrafamily variations in DNA fingerprint patterns were observed with the M13 minisatellite probe. Estimates of the mutation rate for (GATA) n microsatellite loci in D. unisexualis showed that it was as high as that seen in some bisexual species, reaching 15% per sibling or 0.95% per microsatellite band. Furthermore, in one case, a somatic (GATA) n microsatellite mutation was observed in an adult lizard. These findings directly demonstrate that mutations in (GATA) n microsatellite loci comprise an important source of genetic variation in parthenogenetic populations of D. unisexualis.
Tölg, F. (1905) -
Tolley, K.A. & Daniels, R.J. & Feldheim, K.A. (2014) -
Population genetic methods can be useful for understanding spatial genetic patterns, gene flow and diversity. While genetic markers such as gene sequences are useful for understanding broad scale phylogeographic patterns, microsatellite markers allow for inferences within species and on smaller spatial scales. Such data can then be used to glean information on biological processes at the landscape level. Because portions of southern Africa are predicted to be heavily impacted by climatic changes forecast for the next century, a better understanding of the biota at the species level would be beneficial for advancing knowledge on the southern African system. Therefore, we characterised 11 microsatellite markers for an arid adapted lacertid lizard, Pedioplanis lineoocellata, in order to obtain a microsatellite library for future studies. Five of 11 loci were out of Hardy-Weinberg (H-W) equilibrium, showing a homozygote excess. Frequency-based analysis suggested this is due to the presence of null alleles. We further investigated this using a model-based Bayesian approach to simultaneously estimate inbreeding, null alleles and random amplification failures. In contrast to the frequency-based approach, this method indicated that both inbreeding and random amplification failures, not null alleles, are the most significant components of the model for nine of 11 loci. Overall, the inbreeding coefficient was low, but not zero, suggesting that low levels of inbreeding contribute to H-W deviations. Finally, we examined whether population bottlenecks could be a factor in deviations from H-W using multiple methods, but found no evidence to suggest that bottlenecks have played a role.
Tomasini, O. (1905) -
Tomasini, O. (1906) -
Tomasini, O. (1907) -
Tomassone, L. & Ceballos, L.A. & Ragagli, C. & Martello, E. & Sousa, R. de & Stella, M.C. & Mannelli, A. (2017) -
During the investigations on ticks and tick-borne pathogens (TBP) range expansion in the Northern Apennines, we captured 107 Podarcis muralis lizards. Sixty-eight animals were infested by immature Ixodes ricinus, Haemaphysalis sulcata and H. punctata. Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. was detected in 3.7% of I. ricinus larvae and 8.0% of nymphs. Together with the species-specific B. lusitaniae, we identified B. garinii, B. afzelii and B. valaisiana. Rickettsia spp. (18.1% larvae, 12.0% nymphs), namely R. monacensis, R. helvetica and R. hoogstraalii, were also found in I. ricinus. R. hoogstraalii was detected in H. sulcata nymphs as well, while the two H. punctata did not harbour any bacteria. One out of 16 lizard tail tissues was positive to R. helvetica. Our results support the hypothesis that lizards are involved in the epidemiological cycles of TBP. The heterogeneity of B. burgdorferi genospecies mirrors previous findings in questing ticks in the area, and their finding in attached I. ricinus larvae suggests that lizards may contribute to the maintenance of different genospecies. The rickettsiae are new findings in the study area, and R. helvetica infection in a tail tissue indicates a systemic infection. R. hoogstraalii is reported for the first time in I. ricinus ticks. Lizards seem to favour the bacterial exchange among different tick species, with possible public health consequences.
Tomé, B. & Harris, D.J. & Perera, A. & Damas-Moreira, I. (2021) -
Invasive species can carry parasites to introduced locations, which may be key to understand the success or failure of species establishment and the invasive potential of introduced species. We compared the prevalence and infection levels of haemogregarine blood parasites between two sympatric congeneric species in Lisbon, Portugal: the invasive Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) and the native green Iberian wall lizard (Podarcis virescens). The two species had significant differences in their infection levels: while P. virescens had high prevalence of infection (69.0%), only one individual of P. siculus was infected (3.7%), and while P. virescens exhibited an average intensity of 1.36%, the infected P. siculus individual had an infection rate of only 0.04%. Genetic analyses of 18S rRNA identified two different haemogregarine haplotypes in P. virescens. Due to the low levels of infection, we were not able to amplify parasite DNA from the infected P. siculus indi vidual, although it was morphologically similar to those found in P. virescens. Since other studies also reported low levels of parasites in P. siculus, we hypothesize that this general lack of parasites could be one of the factors contributing to its competitive advantage over native lizard species and introduction success.
Tomé, B. & Pereira, A. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. (2019) -
Oceanic islands are hotspots of biodiversity due to their high levels of endemism, with the Canary Islands being a notable example. A previous molecular study on the biogeography and host associations of haemogregarines (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) infecting lizards from this archipelago detected seven parasite haplogroups. These haplogroups exhibited high host-specificity and geographical structure, suggesting that they might correspond to distinct biological identities. In this study, along with sequencing a longer fragment of the 18S rRNA, we further explore the distinctiveness of these parasites by analysing their morphology, effects on host erythrocytes and parasitaemia levels. These lines of evidence together with their genetics, host associations, frequency of occurrence and geographical distribution support them as different biological entities. As such, we describe seven new species: Karyolysus canariensis sp. nov., Karyolysus galloti sp. nov., Karyolysus stehlini sp. nov., Karyolysus gomerensis sp. nov., Karyolysus atlanticus sp. nov., Karyolysus tinerfensis sp. nov. and Karyolysus makariogeckonis sp. nov. These new taxa are further examples of endemic diversity in the Canarian archipelago. They also contribute to clarify the taxonomy within the Apicomplexa, a phylum estimated to have one of the lowest percentages of described species.
Tomé, B. & Pereira, A. & Jorge, F. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. & Perera, A. (2018) -
Background: Host-parasite relationships are expected to be strongly shaped by host specificity, a crucial factor in parasite adaptability and diversification. Because whole host communities have to be considered to assess host specificity, oceanic islands are ideal study systems given their simplified biotic assemblages. Previous studies on insular parasites suggest host range broadening during colonization. Here, we investigate the association between one parasite group (haemogregarines) and multiple sympatric hosts (of three lizard genera: Gallotia, Chalcides and Tarentola) in the Canary Islands. Given haemogregarine characteristics and insular conditions, we hypothesized low host specificity and/or occurrence of host-switching events. Methods: A total of 825 samples were collected from the three host taxa inhabiting the seven main islands of the Canarian Archipelago, including locations where the different lizards occurred in sympatry. Blood slides were screened to assess prevalence and parasitaemia, while parasite genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships were inferred from 18S rRNA gene sequences. Results: Infection levels and diversity of haplotypes varied geographically and across host groups. Infections were found in all species of Gallotia across the seven islands, in Tarentola from Tenerife, La Gomera and La Palma, and in Chalcides from Tenerife, La Gomera and El Hierro. Gallotia lizards presented the highest parasite prevalence, parasitaemia and diversity (seven haplotypes), while the other two host groups (Chalcides and Tarentola) harbored one haplotype each, with low prevalence and parasitaemia levels, and very restricted geographical ranges. Host-sharing of the same haemogregarine haplotype was only detected twice, but these rare instances likely represent occasional cross-infections. Conclusions: Our results suggest that: (i) Canarian haemogregarine haplotypes are highly host-specific, which might have restricted parasite host expansion; (ii) haemogregarines most probably reached the Canary Islands in three colonization events with each host genus; and (iii) the high number of parasite haplotypes infecting Gallotia hosts and their restricted geographical distribution suggest co-diversification. These findings contrast with our expectations derived from results on other insular parasites, highlighting how host specificity depends on parasite characteristics and evolutionary history.
Tome, S. (1997) -
During our visit to the island Porer (W. Istria, Croatia), we noticed that the endemic subspecies Podarcis sicula hadzii that lived only on this small island, is extinct. Possible causes are as follow s: changes of the genetic variability of the population and microclimatic changes on the island.
Tome, S. (1998) -
Tome, S. (2001) -
Differences in morphology between adult females and males exist in most reptiles. In Italian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) males are bigger than females, they have more dor- sal scales, less ventral scales and less femoral pores than females (Henle in Klaver, 1986). The extend of dimorphism varies within species, but these patterns and their causes have not been investigated. The aim of my work was to investigate the extend of sexual dimorphism in different populations of Italian wall lizard and to compare it with island environmental features.
Tomov, V. (1990) -
Tomović, L. & Ajtić, A. & Đoković, D. & Čitaković D. (2000) -
Sharp-snouted rock lizard (Lacerta oxycephala, Dumeril & Bibron, 1839) is a stenoendemic species of former Yugoslavia and the Balkan Peninsula (Crnobrnja-Isailović & Džukić, 1997a). It is distributed along the southeastern region of Adriatic coast, including some islands, from Krka River in Dalmacia, to Lake Skadar Region in Montenegro (Radovanović, 1951 Anrold & Burton, 1978; Džukić, 1991; Crnobrnja-Isailović & Džukić, 1997a,b). In FR Yugoslavia, this species is distributed at the Mediterranean and Submediterranean Montenegro (Brelih & Džukić, 1974; Džukić, 1991, 1995 Crnobrnja-Isailović & Džukić, 1997b).
Tomovic, L. & Ajtic, R. & Crnobrnja-Issailovic, J. (2004) -
We present results of three consecutive years of research of batrachofauna and herpetofauna of Bjelasica Mountain and “Biogradska Gora” National Park, in north-eastern part of Montenegro. We found 9 amphibian and 9 reptile species inhabiting area in concern, that represent 56.3% of batracho and 26.5% of herpetofauna in Montenegro. We discuss conservation status of some species and suggest future perspectives for research and protection.
Tomovic, L. & Ajtic, R. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Urosevic, A. & Jovic, D. & Krizmanic, I. & Labus, N. & Dordevic, S. & Kalezic, M.L. & Vukov, T. & Dzukic, G. (2014) -
In this paper we present confirmed and potential distribution ranges of all native Serbian reptile species. The information provided herein presents the combination of the newly collected faunistic data and previously published records. The centres of reptilian diversity in Serbia were evaluated, in order to focus future conservation efforts on the regions of particular importance for the protection of this understudied group of animals. We found four main centres of species richness: three in Metohija and one in Šumadija, with 17–21 species per 50 × 50 km square. Analysis of the similarity of species composition in different regions of Serbia showed that South-eastern Serbia is the most distinct from other regions of Serbia, due to high number of Mediterranean species, with two being found exclusively in that region (E. quatuorlineata and P. najadum). Metohija is also very distinct, due to the highest number of species and significant number of specific (Mediterranean) faunal elements. The remaining geographic regions are grouped into three clusters, with Kosovo-Southern Serbia cluster being especially distinct in the terms of species richness and the presence of Mediterranean species. We also compared Serbian herpetofauna with those in other Balkan countries, considering species’ numbers and zoogeographic herpetofaunistic elements. Serbian herpetofauna is closest to the Romanian. Zoogeographic analysis showed that reptilian fauna of Serbia consists of eight chorotypes, with the Eastern-Mediterranean (nine species) and Southern-European (five species) as the most dominant ones.
Tomovic, L. & Vucic, T. & Andelkovic, M. & Urosevic, A. & Bjelica, V. & Maricic, M. & Lakusic, M. & Danon, G. & Ivanovic, A. (2022) -
We present the updated distribution of batracho- and herpetofauna in southern and south-eastern Serbia, based on literature and new field records for 16 amphibian and 22 reptile species. In these two biogeographic regions, already recognized as biodiversity hotspots, we discovered two new amphibian species with limited distribution: Hyla orientalis and Pelobates balcanicus. Also, one species (Triturus ivanbureshi) has restricted distribution, while one (Bombina bombina) is rare. Four reptile species have limited distributions and six are rare in these regions. The presence of hybrid zones and the influence of the Mediterranean climate make southern and south-eastern Serbia areas of great importance and the target for future ecological and conservation studies in Serbia.
Tong, Q.L. & Yao, Y.T. & Lin, L.H. & Ji, X. (2016) -
In this paper, we report the complete mitochondrial genome of Eremias vermiculata (Squamata: Lacertidae), which is a circular molecule of 19,914 bp in size and consists of 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNAs, 22 transfer RNAs, and 1 putative control region. The A + T content of overall base of the composition of H-strand is 59.8% (T: 28.9%, C: 27.2%, A: 30.9%, G: 13.0%). All of the results provide powerful data to further study of the molecular systematics, species identification and conservation genetics.
In this paper, the complete mitochondrial genome of Eremias multiocellata (Squamata: Lacertidae) is reported, which is a circular molecule of 19,385 bp in size. The nucleotides composition are 31.2% A, 28.9% T, 27.1% C and 13.4% G. The genome consists of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNAs, 2 ribosomal RNA genes and 1 putative control region.
Tonge, S. (1986) -
Tonkes, M. (1991) -
Topin, F. (2012) -
Torki, F. (2007) -
Reproduction was studied in male and female Snake-eyed Lizards Ophisops elegans MÉNÉTRIÉS, 1832 from the Zagros Mountains in western Iran. For this purpose testis, epididymis and oviduct were subject to metric and histological analyses. The results show that the testicular cycle can be subdivided into three phases: active, transitional and resting phase. The female reproduction cycle allows for distinction between three phases as well: preactive, active and inactive phase. In the active phases, spermatogenesis occurred and spermatozoa were found in both testis and epididymis, while shell glands were active in the oviduct Typical for temperate climate zones with their pronounced seasons, the reproductive cycle of O. elegans is of the seasonal type, and strongly correlates with the time of the year.
Torki, F. & Gharzi. A. (2008) -
During biological activity, specimens of Ophisops eleganswere collected in western Iran, from March to November. Testis were removed and H&E techniques were used for histological study. The results show three phases in spermatogenesis timing as follows: (a) active phase, spermatogenesis in all specimens is active, (b) transitional phase, spermatogenesis in many specimens are active an in other is inactive, and finally (c) inactive phase, spermato- genesis in all specimens is inactive.
Tornier, G. (1900) -
Tornier, G. (1902) -
Tornier, G. (1905) -
Tornier, G. (1908) -
Török, U. (2002) -
Török, Z. (1998) -
Török, Z. (1999) -
În perioada 20.08.1994 - 25.07.1999 autorul a realizat investigaţii herpetologice în 150 de zone ale Dobrogei (Delta Dunării, sistemul lagunar Razim-Sinoie şi platoul continental). Rezultatele cercetărilor arată că şopârla de câmp (Lacerta agilis) există în prezent numai pe grindurile din Delta Dunării şi sistemul lagunar. Deosebit de dense sunt populaţiile în zone unde suprafaţa este acoperită de vegetaţie (în special Juncus maritimus) în proporţie de 60 - 80 %. Deşi în literatura de specialitate există semnalări ale speciei şi în zonele continentale ale Dobrogei (Atmagea, Beştepe, Casimcea, Rasova, Tulcea), presupunem că în aceste cazuri este vorba de determinări eronate, femele de guşter (Lacerta viridis) fiind probabil confundate cu exemplare de şopârlă de câmp (Lacerta agilis).
Török, Z. (2008) -
In August 2007 the author recorded the Eremias arguta specimens occurrring on the first row of high dunes from the coastal area of the central part of grindul Chituc. On the respective transact of about 3,2 km length there were present 371 individuals of Eremias arguta, representing an average of one lizard at every 8,5 m (roughly). On the respective, stripelike and very narrow habitat type (having a total surface of about 12,650 m2) the average density of the Eremias arguta was 293.3 specimens / ha.
Török, Z. (2009) -
Based on the results of field investigations carried out in 1994 – 2008 period, the author established the general distributional patterns in the northern part of the Dobrogean mainland of three lizard species. The Sand Lizards (Lacerta agilis) populates habitats with linear shape, the species being present along river valleys and some roads. The Balkan Green Lizards (L. trilineata) and the Green Lizards (L. viridis) were recorded mostly nearby or inside the forests (or plantations). In case of L. trilineata and L. viridis there is quite obvious the spatial segregation: in areas where the two species were present, the Balkan Green Lizard (L. trilineata) occurs mostly at lower altitudes, meanwhile the Green Lizard (L. viridis) was more frequently present at higher altitudes.
Török, Z. (2010) -
The present paper shows details on the structure of the GIS-based data-base created in order to carry out accurate analyzes of the spatial distribution on national level of the species belonging to the Lacertidae family. The results of the data processing shows that there are 1015 records (on a total number of 613 local administrative territories) of Sand Lizards (Lacerta agilis), 775 records (on a total number of 446 local administrative territories) of Green Lizards (L. viridis), 65 records (on a total number of 30 local administrative territories) of Balkan Green Lizards (L. trilineata), 66 records (on a total number of 38 local administrative territories) of Meadow Lizards (L. praticola), 440 records (on a total number of 226 local administrative territories) of Viviparous Lizards (L. vivipara), 328 records (on a total number of 202 local administrative territories) of Wall Lizards (Podarcis muralis), 288 records (on a total number of 126 local administrative territories) of Balkan Wall Lizards (P. taurica) and 34 records (on a total number of 12 local administrative territories) of Steppe Runners (Eremias arguta) made in Romania up to the year 2007.
Török, Z. (2015) -
Parameters influencing the habitat use of four collared lizard species, live-born lizard (Zootoca vivipara), brisk lizard (Lacerta agilis), green lizard (Lacerta viridis) and sand lizard (Podarcis taurica) were investigated. The species (and age) and the species. I searched for the relationships between the time of day, the season and different habitat parameters (habitat moisture, distance from bush, sedge presence, open habitat location, habitat category). According to my results, the presence of the live-born lizard is positively correlated with the presence of the sedge and is most closely related to the wet spots. The sand lizard is the least associated with wet spots, with the vast majority of its observations occurring in open sand grasslands. Unlike this, the agile or lame. the Green Lizard proved to be a generalist, their perception data distributed more evenly across habitat patches. Depending on the age group, juveniles were higher (drier spots) in all species. According to the distance from the bush, the sightings of the sand lizard were significantly different from those of the other three species, in that they were located much longer (~ 25m) from the bushes. The average distance of lizards from the bush increased throughout the year, and at daybreak the alert and lively lizard sighted closer to the bush in the morning and the green and sand lizards in the afternoon. Depending on the age group and distance from the bush, I found that, except for the sand lizard, the juveniles were closer to the bushes. Overall, juvenile lizards showed a more chaotic image than adults.
Négy nyakörvösgyík faj, az elevenszülő gyík (Zootoca vivipara), fürge gyík (Lacerta agilis), zöld gyík (Lacerta viridis) és a homoki gyík (Podarcis taurica) élőhelyhasználatát befolyásoló paramétereket vizsgáltam. A fajok (és koruk), ill. a napszak, évszak és különböző élőhely paraméterek (élőhelyfolt nedvessége, bokortól való távolság, sás jelenléte, nyílt élőhelyfolt jelenléte, élőhelykategória) közötti összefüggéseket kerestem. Eredményeim szerint az elevenszülő gyík jelenléte pozitív korrelációt mutat a sás jelenlétével és leginkább kötődik a nedves foltokhoz. Legkevésbé a homoki gyík kötődik a nedves foltokhoz, észleléseinek túlnyomó többsége nyílt homokpusztagyepekben történt. Ettől eltérően a fürge, ill. a zöld gyík generalistának bizonyult, észlelési adataik sokkal egyenletesebben oszlottak el az élőhelyfoltok között. Korcsoport függvényében a juvenilisek az összes faj esetében magasabban (a szárazabb foltokban) helyezkedtek el. A bokortól való távolság szerint a homoki gyík észlelései szignifikánsan különböztek a másik három fajétól, mégpedig oly módon, hogy a bokroktól jóval nagyobb távolságra (~25m) helyezkedtek el. A gyíkok bokortól való átlagos távolsága az év folyamán nőtt, napszak szerint pedig délelőtt a fürge és elevenszülő gyík észlelések voltak közelebb a bokorhoz, délután pedig a zöld és homoki gyíkoké. Korcsoport és bokortól való távolság függvényében azt kaptam, hogy a homoki gyík kivételével a juvenilisek közelebb voltak a bokrokhoz. Összességében a juvenilis gyíkok a felnőttekénél kaotikusabb képet mutattak.
Torres, J.M. (2020) -
Torres, N.V. & Sánchez, L.D. & Pérez, J.A. & Meléndez-Hevia, E. (1984) -
Tortonese, E. (1941) -
Tosini, G. & Avery, R.A. (1993) -
The mean temperatures at which lizards in an experimental arena ceased basking beneath a tungsten bulb (t-move) had a lower variance than mean temperatures when they returned (T-bask). 2. Mean T-move and overall mean surface temperatures of active lizards were significantly higher in the melanic subspecies Podarcis muralis marcuccii from Argenterola Islet in the Tyrrhenian Sea than in the normally-coloured subspecies P. m. brueggemanni from Florence, mainland ltaly. 3. Heating rates of similarly-sized individuals of the two subspecies did not differ.
Tosini, G. & Avery, R.A. (1994) -
Thermoregulatory set points-i.e., the body temperatures at which heat-seeking or cooling behavior are initiated-of the lacertid lizard Podarcis muralis were measured by infrared thermography before and after covering the parietal eye with light filters with different cutoff points. The results show that shielding the parietal eye results in a transient alteration of thermoregulatory set points; this effect is wavelength-dependent. Mean heating rates, bask and forage durations were not affected by the shielding of the parietal eye with any of the filters used.
Tosini, G. & Avery, R.A. (1996) -
There is evidence that dermal photic responsiveness can be found in a wide range of animals. Behavioral responses to dermal stimulation by light have been observed in pigeons quabs and new-born rats, and more recently in a sea snake. Here we report that painting the dorsal surface of the lizard (Podarcis muralis) with opaque black paint impairs the animal`s ability to position itself beneath a light source containing negligible heat. Experiments using light of different spectra and intensitiess how that the effect is due to light of wavelengths shorter than 600 nm and of intensity higher than 2.5 mW cm-2. These experiments demonstrate for the first time that overt behavior in a terrestrial vertebrate can be mediated by a dermal light sense.
1. Thermoregulatory set points — i.e. the body temperatures at which heat-seeking or cooling behaviour are initiated — of the lacertid lizard Podarcis muralis were measured by infra-red thermography in animals exposed to light of different spectral compositions. 2. Exposing intact lizards to light from which wavelength < 540 or < 600 nm had been filtered out resulted in persistent but reversible decreases in the values of both thermoregulatory set points. Mean heating rates and bask durations were also affected. 3. Light from which wavelengths < 480 nm had been removed had no effect on any of these variables.
Tosini, G. & Foá, A. & Avery, R.A. (1992) -
Body temperatures (Tbs) of adult ruin lizards, Podarcis sicula, captured near Pisa (Italy) between February and November ranged from 22.4-38.5°C. There were no significant differences between sexes. Mean body temperatures in February-April and November were significantly lower than those recorded from May-October (29.0 and 32.7°C respectively). The overall relationship between Tb and soil temperature at the point of capture (Ts) showed two components. At Ts<28°C there was a highly significant association and 98% of individuals were recorded with Tb>Ts. At Ts> 28°C the association was less clear and Tb
Tosini, G. & Foá, A. & Avery, R.A. (1993) -
Tosini, G. & Foá, A. & Avery, R.A. (1996) -
Tosini, G. & Jones, S. & Avery, R.A. (1994) -
Feeding resulted in immediate upward shifts of between 0.62 and 3.00 K in the mean set points at wich basking started and creased (Tbask and Tmove) in P. muralis allowed top thermoregulate beneath tungsten bulbs giving three different levels of radiant heat, except for Tmove in lizards at the highest level (70 m W cm² measured in the range 8000 – 14000 mm). Mean bask durations decreased following feeding, but mean forage durations also decreased and the overall times spent basking increased. Values for all four variables declined gradually, returning to pre-feeding levels after 30-50 min. Feeding had no effect on mean heating rates. Feeding in Lacerta vivipara also resulted in increases in set point temperatures, but mean bask durations increased following feeding in this species.
Tosini, G. & Lanza, B. & Bacci, M. (1991) -
Tosini, G. & Lanza, B. & Bacci, M. (1992) -
Podards muralis is a small to medium-sized European lacertid showing a re- markable chromatic polymorphism with a number of more or less darkened micro- insular populations (or subspecies). Given that dark skin should increase the heating rate in such heliothermic lizards as P. muralis, some authors (MERTENS 1963, CARLQUIST 1965, LANZA 1979) have stressed the thermoregulatory significance of darkening in a microinsu- lar environment. As the Mediterranean rocky islets and rocks are generally poor in food, the higher heating rate of dark specimens would allow them to be active earlier and thus able to forage sooner than the lighter specimens (LANZA 1979): A better feeding regime would increase the fitness, and therefore favour the spread of dark mutants within the population. The skin reflectance of melanic wall lizards was seen to be 2% higher than that of non-melanic ones in a short wavelength range 0.38-0.80 u (LANZA et al. 1986, TOSINI et al. 1991). To further determine the effect of skin darkening on the thermoregulation of P. muralis it was decided to measure the skin reflectance and energy input in a wider wavelength range.
Tosini, J. & Jones, S. & Avery, R. (1995) -
1. Set point temperatures at which Podarcis muralis and Lacerta vivipara ceased basking (T-move; upper set point) and commenced basking (T-bask; lower set point) increased incrementally with increasing i.r. irradiance; values for all set point temperatures were higher in the former species. 2. Changing the i.r. irradiance during a bask resulted in a shift in the upper set point temperature to a level intermediate between the values expected at constant previous and new irradiances (experiment with L. vivipara only). 3. The changes in set-point temperatures following changes in i.r. irradiance were not due to changes in light intensity. 4. The ability to respond to immediate changes in i.r. irradiance is adaptive for lizards in areas in which rapid changes in amounts of sunshine are a feature of the climate.
Tosonoglu, M. & Dincaslan, Y.E. & Uysal, I. (2010) -
Toss, K. (2008) -
Im Duisburger Innenhafen existiert eine große, bisher nicht bekannte Population von Mauereidechsen. Diese konnte sich offenbar unbemerkt in den vergangenen (mindestens) 20 Jahren entwickeln. Erste Hinweise auf die Besiedlung des Innenhafens liegen aus dem Jahr 1987 vor, aus einer Zeit also als das Gebiet noch nicht städtebaulich zu einem Areal mit zahlreichen Gaststätten, Bürogebäuden und einem angrenzenden Wohnquartier entwickelt worden war. Ein weiteres Vorkommen wurde in Hochfeld an der Brücke der Solidarität entdeckt. Damit sind insgesamt vier Populationen der Mauereidechse in Duisburg bekannt.
Toss, K. (2015) -
Die Bergehalde Lohmannsheide in Duisburg-Baerl ist ein bedeutender Lebensraum für die streng geschützten Arten Zauneidechse, Kammmolch und Kreuzkröte. Die Zukunft dieser Populationen ist gefährdet, da auf dem Gelände der Halde eine Deponie für mäßig belastete Stoffe entstehen soll. Im Anschluss soll das Gelände zu einem Freizeitareal entwickelt werden. Sollten die Pläne des Haldenbetreibers RAG Montan Immobilien nicht realisiert werden, droht den Populationen dennoch durch Rekultivierungsmaßnahmen der Bergehalde das Aus.
Tosunoğlu, M. & Göçmen, B. & Atatür, M.K. & Cevik, I.E. (2001) -
A total of 51 specimens of Lacerta laevis (25 ♂, 26 ♀) from the area of Mersin and Hatay (southern Anatolia) were investigated morphologically, and of these 24 specimens (12 ♂, 12 ♀) were analyzed from the viewpoint of their blood-serum proteins. The populations were found to show great intra- and interpopulation variation in their pattern and colour characteristics and in their serological analyses, while their morphometric characteristics were found to be similar. It is thus concluded that, for the present, it is not possible to separate them into different subspecies.
Tosunoğlu, M. & Göçmen, B. & Taskavcek, E. & Budak, A. (1999) -
The present study compares the blood serum proteins of populations of the Lacerta laevis complex from northern Cyprus and southern Turkey (Adana) by polyacrylamide-disc electrophoresis. There are discernible differences between the electropherograms of blood serum proteins of the two populations. In the light of these differences, it would be appropriate to accept the northern Cyprus population as a distinct species, Lacerta troodica, as suggested previously by BUDAK & GÖÇMEN (1995).
Tóth, T. & Csaba, G. & Endre, S. & Halpern, B. & Molnár, Z. (2009) -
Tóth, T. & Farkas, B. & Csaba, G. & Endre, S. & Halpern, B. & Molnár, Z. (2009) -
Tóth, T. & Grillitsch, H. & Farkas, B. & Gál, J. & Susic, G. (2006) -
The present detailed account of the amphibian and reptile distribution in the North Adriatic Island of Cres (Croatia) is chiefly based on literature data supplemented by new observations kindly provided by a number of correspondents or made by the authors during various trips to the island. Dot maps of the species’ distribution on Cres Island are presented. The overview is completed by information on the herpetofauna of 25 neighboring islands in the Kvarner Bay. Lacerta oxycephala DUMÉRIL & BIBRON, 1839 is reported for the first time from Cres Island.
Tóth, T. & Heltai, M. & Keszi, A. & Susic, G. & Moharos, L. & Farkas, B. & Géczy, C. & Torda, O. & Gál, J. (2017) -
the present review of the herpetofauna of the small islands of the Cres–lošinj Archipelago (Croatia) is based on literature data and observations made by the authors in 2011 to 2014. the 16 islets and islands ranging in size between 0.05 km2 (Zabodaski) and 16.92 km2 (unije) are all inhabited by at least one species of wall lizard of the genus Podarcis. the islands Koludarc, unije and veli Osir harbor Podarcis melisellensis fiumana (WeRneR, 1891), while Kormat, male Srakane, mali Plavnik, Oruda, Palacol, unije, vele Srakane, visoki and Zabodaski hold populations of Podarcis siculus campestris (RAFineSque-SChmAltZ, 1810). Both taxa are present on Plavnik, Susak and Zeča. Caretta caretta (linnAeuS, 1758), is reported for the first time from the islands of Oruda and unije, and Hierophis viridiflavus carbonarius (BOnAPARte, 1833) from Susak and unije.
Tóth, T. & Krecsák, L. & Madsen, T. & Újvári, B. (2002) -
Since MERTENS’ (1961a) comprehensive study on the herpetofauna of the Island of Corfu, no other publications have appeared that fully cover this subject. The present study compiles the herpetological record localities on Corfu Island mentioned by name in the literature as well as unpublished observations of the authors. The record localities of 8 amphibian and 26 reptile species occurring on the island are presented on separate maps each.
Tóth, T. & Varga, N. & Gál, J. & Kocsis, B. (2023) -
In 2005, a new lizard species, the sharp-snouted rock lizard (Dalmatolacerta oxycephala) appeared on the island of Cres, probably due to anthropogenic transfer. Before that, only the Dalmatian wall lizard (Podarcis melisellensis) had inhabited the town of Osor, where the new species was discovered. In areas where the two species live sympatrically, P. melisellensis is competitively superior to D. oxycephala; however, in Osor, D. oxycephala appeared in parts of the town where P. melisellensis had been present before. Since 2005, there has been no systematic survey to assess how the distribution of the two species has changed in Osor and, the aim of this study is to investigate how far D. oxycephala has spread and what happened to the distribution of the native P. melisellensis after the new species appeared. Here we show that in 16 years, the native Dalmatian wall lizard was outcompeted by the sharp-snouted rock lizard, and there was no observation of the two species together at the same locations. Despite the new species preferring high stone walls, specimens were also found on shorter stone walls alongside the road towards Lošinj. According to our findings, the further spread of the sharp-snouted rock lizard cannot be excluded in the upcoming years in Cres, which could negatively affect the native Dalmatian wall lizard, but further research is needed to reveal the causes of our observations and to monitor the changes in the distribution of the two species.
Tovornik, D. & Brelih, S. (1980) -
The authors report on the infestation of lizards with ticks [(Acarina: Ixodidae) in some parts of Yugoslavia. The lizards concerned come from Slovenia, Serbia incl. Vojvodina, Macedonia, Montenegro, but the majority, however, from the Adriatic West—Istrian, Quarner and Dalmatia islands. The tick survival in dry Karst regions, poor with vegetation during the hot summer period has been discussed. It has been established that on the very small Adriatic islands and sea crags the blood source for unadult Haemaphysalis sulcata CANESTRINI et FANZAGO are two lizard species, Lacerta melisellensis BRAUN and Lacerta sicula RAFINESQUE, which are often also the only vertebrate inhabitants of these habitats.
Trakimas, G. (2005) -
During the reptile survey in Lithuania, a total of 116 localities of Lacerta agilis and 155 localities of Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara were mapped. Frequency of occurrence was 40.6% and 54.2%, respectively. Values of Zielinskis index were considerably higher (53.2% and 69% respectively) if compared with the direct frequency of occurrence. These differences between the species, evident even after the evaluation of the survey effort degree, lead to the suggestion that in Lithuania L. vivipara is more common than L. agilis. However, a more detailed analysis showed that both species have the same status south of approximately 55°17`N, while to the north of this line L. agilis is less common, and its distribution is patchy. This latitudinal gradient in the distribution is probably caused by different tolerance of the species to the same environmental conditions.
Tramm, B. (1993) -
Trapanese, M. (2017) -
The selective pressures acting on insular populations are often different from those on the mainland, therefore diversifying insular animals. Such variations have been amply described for many animals and plants, and they can be grouped in at least three syndromes or rules. The Island Rule describes the gigantism in smaller mammals and dwarfism in larger species. The Island Syndrome (IS) predicts reduced aggressiveness, gigantism, reduced litter size and delayed sexual maturity. Finally, the Reversed Island Syndrome (RIS) described only for the Italian wall lizard, focuses on adaptations that are useful to ensure the early reproduction. In this way insular lizards optimize reproduction to guarantee the transfer of genetic information to the next generation in a shorter time (Raia et al., 2010). Unpredictable environments and lower life expectancy seems to be the necessary conditions so that there is the RIS. In this research we tried to reveal the genetic basis of RIS and the temporal implications that are necessary for the development of phenotypic adaptations (Monti et al., 2013). The study was conducted on three populations: one population of lizards from mainland (Punta Campanella), represented the wild-type condition, one population from an island without syndrome (lizards from Capri) and finally one population from an island most probably under syndrome (lizards from Scopolo, also known as external sea stack). Head width, skin melanization and aggressive behavior were assayed to identify which of the examined populations were under the syndrome. Furthermore, for each of the three environments hosting the three populations, we estimated the selective pressures such as predatory pressure and ectoparasite load of the skin. Lizards from Scopolo island had a larger head and they were more aggressive. Another typical feature was the strong melanization of the skin. The efficiency of these markers made this experimental approach a future instrument of RIS investigation in the case of other island populations. The selective pressures (predation and ectoparasite load) were stronger on Scopolo island than in the other two study areas. These extreme ecological conditions most likely represent some of the driving forces at the base of RIS adaptations. The Melanocortin 1 receptor gene (MC1R), involved in melanization of insular lizards (Fulgione et al., 2015), was differently expressed in the three populations. In particular, its mRNA level was higher in lizards from Scopolo. The mitochondrial genome was assembled to investigate variations among these populations, analyzing the types and modes of mutations. For this marker, lizards from Scopolo (population under syndrome) showed rare and neutral mutations in the coding regions. All these tests suggested that the variations shown by lizards under-syndrome may depend on a set of differently expressed genes rather than gene mutations. To investigate the veracity of this hypothesis, we conducted a transcriptome analysis using two tissues mainly implicated in the phenotypic characters linked to syndrome, testis and brain. We assembled a de novo multi-organ transcriptome, for mainland (Punta Campanella) and island populations (Scopolo). The transcriptome analysis showed that insular lizards had a lower rate of SNPs in the coding regions of the genes but higher expression of the genes linked to RIS. This confirms that regulative mode could be at the base of the observed variations. A significant difference in phenotypic variations related to the regulation of gene expression/methylation of DNA rather than mutations in the genomecoding regions, is the time necessary to induce these changes. Insular lizards exposed to strong selective pressures can respond in a short time and with specific adaptations regulating their gene expression. Therefore, we decided to estimate the divergence times for these three populations and particularly for the population from Scopolo, the island under syndrome. Using the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) as molecular clock, it was evident that the amount of mutations occurred in mtDNA of lizards from Capri, was commensurate to the time of geological separation of Capri from mainland. On the contrary, the amount of mutations occurred in mtDNA of lizards from Scopolo was significantly lower than expected in relation to the time of geological separation of Scopolo from its mainland, Capri island. These data have confirmed the hypothesis that the genome of lizards from Scopolo didn’t suffer structural changes despite great phenotypic changes. The latter could be the result of a gene regulation that could be due to diverse transcriptional factors or DNA methylation. On the one hand, this research provides information about the mode and time of evolution of our case study. On the other hand, it has opened many opportunities of investigation concerning the genetic mechanisms underlying regulative strategies.
Trapanese, M. & Buglione, M. & Petrelli, S. & Aceto, S. & Fulgione, D. (2017) -
Some insular lizards show a high degree of differentiation from their conspecific mainland populations, like Licosa island lizards, which are described as affected by Reversed Island Syndrome (RIS). In previous works, we demonstrated that some traits of RIS, as melanization, depend on a differential expression of gene encoding melanocortin receptors. To better understand the basis of syndrome, and providing raw data for future investigations, we generate the first de novo transcriptome of the Italian wall lizard. Comparing mainland and island transcriptomes, we link differences in life-traits to differential gene expression. Our results, taking together testis and brain sequences, generated 275,310 and 269,885 transcripts, 18,434 and 21,606 proteins in Gene Ontology annotation, for mainland and island respectively. Variant calling analysis identified about the same number of SNPs in island and mainland population. Instead, through a differential gene expression analysis we found some putative genes involved in syndrome more expressed in insular samples like Major Histocompatibility Complex class I, Immunoglobulins, Melanocortin 4 receptor, Neuropeptide Y and Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen.
Trape, J.-F. & Chirio, L. & Geniez, P. (2012) -
Trape, J.-F. & Trape, S. (2012) -
Trapé, J.-F. & Trapé, S. & Chirio, L. (2012) -
Trapp, B. (2001) -
Trapp, B. (2003) -
Trapp, B. (2005) -
Trapp, B. (2007) -
Benny Trapp, Fotograf, Griechenlandkenner und Leiter des Schutzprojektes `Afrikanisches Chamäleon` auf dem Peloponnes, stellt in diesem Buch alle 62 Reptilien- und Amphibienarten des griechischen Festlandes in faszinierenden Bildern vor. Die Informationen zu Beschreibung, Verbreitung, Lebensraum, Fortpflanzung und Verhalten jeder Art werden durch praktische Tipps zu Beobachtungsmöglichkeiten der oftmals scheuen und heimlich lebenden Tiere ergänzt. Neben Informationen über Land und Leute sowie Naturschutz in Griechenland erfährt man Nützliches über Giftschlangen und zur Naturfotografie. Mit seinen bestechenden, zahlreichen Fotos sicherlich eines der prächtigsten Bücher über europäische Amphibien und Reptilien.
Trapp, B. (2011) -
Trapp, B. (2012) -
Trapp, B. (2020) -
Trapp, B. (2021) -
Trautmann, T. (1922) -
Trautner, J. (2011) -
Trautner, J. (2015) -
Am Dätzberg nahe Heilbronn (Deutschland, Baden-Württemberg) wurde Ende der 1980er Jahre eine Rebflurbereinigung durchgeführt, wobei der Südhang weitgehend umgestaltet wurde. Rund 20 Jahr später hat sich dort wieder ein Individuen reicher Mauereidechsenbestand (Podarcis muralis) regionaler Bedeutung etabliert. Dieser ist in der Größe demjenigen vor der Rebflurbereinigung ähnlich, allerdings bei ungünstigerer Habitatsituation aufgrund der geringeren Mauerlänge sowie der Gehölzsukzssion an der Weinbergoberkante. Verteilung und Entwicklung des Bestands in den ersten Untersuchungsjahren nach der Rebflurbereinigung lassen den Schluss zu, dass in waldnahen Randbereichen einzelne Tiere die Planie überstanden, von denen im Weiteren die Wiederentwicklung des Bestandes ausging. Gezielte Bergung und Umsetzung von Individuen erfolgten im Rahmen des Vorhabens nicht. Nachweise weiterer Reptilienarten sowie die „Funktion“ der Mauereidechse als Leitart von Weinberggebieten im Kontext der Ergebnisse zu anderen Tierartengruppen werden kurz angesprochen.
Traveset, A. (1995) -
The seed dispersal system of Cneorum tricoccon, a shrub with a distribution restricted to the western Mediterranean area, was examined in the Balearic Islands. The endemic lizards, Podarcis lilfordi and Podarcis pityusensis (Lacertidae), consume important quantities of fruit of the plant, acting as a legitimate dispersers on the islands where they are present.
Traveset, A. (1997) -
This study examines the posl- dispersal seed predation levels 01 Phi/lyrea spp. in the island 01 Cabrera (Balearic Islands). The two kind 01 habitals where Ihese planls live (Iorest and scrubland) are compared and the effect 01 microhabitat (under shrubs/trees and in clears 01 vegetation) on seed survival is evaluated. Results show that the probabilily Ihat seeds are preyed upon (by granivorous birds, mice or ants) is the same in pine lorest than in scrubland and thal, at least in the lorest, there seems lo be a tendency lar a higher seed survival under the shrubs/trees than in the clears. The type 01 Ieees (Iizards` or birds`) where the seeds 01 Phillyrea were conlained did not appear to affect Ihe probability 01 predalion. Nonelheless, it is reasonable lo think that birds are more important than lizards as seeddispersers 01 these planls as birds disperse a greater number 01 seeds, at lower densities, and generally, to longer distances Irom the parent plant (and probably to a greater number 01 microhabitats as well) than lizards.
Traveset, A. (1998) -
En canvi, tant Podarcis lilfordi a les Gimnèsies com P. pityusensis a Eivissa i Formentera consumeixen importants quantitats d`aquests fruits, actuant com a legítims dispersors, és a dir, defecant llavors completament intactes i capaces de germinar.
Traveset, A. (1999) -
The mutualistic interactions among species have received relatively little attention in the field of conservation biology. It is especially in insular ecosystems where it has been found that this type of interactions, particularly plant-animal interactions, can be very important for the maintenance of biodiversity. Islands, with relatively high values of biodiversity, are especially vulnerable to habitat modifications of any kind, and the loss of a species can cause a dramatic reduction -or even the extinction- of other species which depend on the former. In this paper I present some examples of islands where plant-animal mutualisms are presumably important for the plant community structure and for biodiversity in general. The current major threats to animal mutualists (pollinators and seed dispersers, in particular) are enumerated as well as the factors that need to be considered when predicting the extinction risk of a plant devoid of these mutualists. Finally, some documented cases of plant-animal mutualism disruption and its consequences are given. Conservation programs are certainly incomplete if they do not incorporate the study of both evolutionary and ecological mutualistic interactions among species.
Traveset, A. (2002) -
The alteration of a habitat such as that caused by the introduction of exotic animal species that displace the native ones, reducing their populations or leading them to extinction, can result in the disruption of species interactions which may have evolved during millions of years. The insular ecosystems are especially vulnerable to such disturbances, as they are usually less complex and have a lower number of species than the continental ones. In the present work I document the consequences of the disruption of plant-disperser interactions, caused by the introduction of carnivorous mammals in the Balearic Islands, for the populations of two shrub species: Cneorum tricoccon L., with a distribution restricted to the western Mediterranean, and Daphne rodriguezii Texidor, endemic from Menorca island. Whereas carnivores have replaced ⁄ the native dispersers (lizards) of the former, notably modifying its distribution -especially in Mallorca-, the plant-lizard mutualism disruption seems to have been dramatic for the second species, drastically reducing its populations except in an islet where lizards still persist.
Traveset, A. & Escribano-Avila, G. & Gómez, J.M. & Valido, A. (2019) -
The disappearance of native seed dispersers due to anthropogenic activities is often accompanied by the introduction of alien species, which may to some extent replace the ecological service provided by the extinct ones. Yet, little empirical evidence exists demonstrating the evolutionary consequences of such alien “replacement.” Here, we document the conflicting selection exerted on seed size by two native lizards (Podarcis lilfordi and P. pityusensis) and an alien mammal species (Martes martes), all acting as legitimate seed dispersers of the Mediterranean relict Cneorum tricoccon. While lizards mostly exerted a negative directional selection on seed diameter, especially P. pityusensis, the much larger pine marten exerted positive selection on seed size. Our findings suggest that this among‐disperser variation in the selection regimes, together with the occurrence of spatial variation in the presence of each seed disperser, help to create the geographical variation observed for seed size of C. tricoccon. To our knowledge, this is the first empirical evidence showing opposing selective pressures between native and alien species in the seed dispersal process in an invaded ecosystem.
Traveset, A. & González-Varo, J.P & Valido, A. (2012) -
The loss or decline of vertebrate frugivores can limit the regeneration of plants that depend on them. However, empirical evidence is showing that this is still very scarce, as functionally equivalent species may contribute to maintain the mutualistic interaction. Here, we investigated the long-term consequences of the extinction of frugivorous lizards on the population persistence of a Mediterranean relict shrub Cneorum tricoccon (Cneoraceae). We examined the demographic parameters among 26 insular and mainland populations, which encompass the entire plant distributional range, comparing populations with lizards with those in which these are extinct, but in which alien mammals currently act as seed dispersers. Plant recruitment was found to be higher on island populations with lizards than on those with mammals, and the long-term effects of the native disperser`s loss were found in all vital phases of plant regeneration. The study thus gives evidence of the cascading effects of human-induced changes in ecosystems, showing how the disruption of native ecological processes can lead to species regression and, in the long term, even to local extinctions.
Traveset, A. & Richardson, D.M. (2006) -
Invasive alien species affect the composition and functioning of invaded ecosystems in many ways, altering ecological interactions that have arisen over evolutionary timescales. Specifically, disruptions to pollination and seed-dispersal mutualistic interactions are often documented, although the profound implications of such impacts are not widely recognized. Such disruptions can occur via the introduction of alien pollinators, seed dispersers, herbivores, predators or plants, and we define here the many potential outcomes of each situation. The frequency and circumstances under which each category of mechanisms operates are also poorly known. Most evidence is from populationlevel studies, and the implications for global biodiversity are difficult to predict. Further insights are needed on the degree of resilience in interaction networks, but the preliminary picture suggests that invasive species frequently cause profound disruptions to plant reproductive mutualisms.
Traveset, A. & Riera, N. (2001) -
Traveset, A. & Riera, N. (2005) -
The introduction of exotic species to an island can have significant effects on the population density and distribution of native species and on the ecological and evolutionary interactions among them (e.g., plant-animal mutualisms). The disruption of these interactions can be dramatic, significantly reducing the reproductive success of the species and even leading to their extinction. On Menorca Island (Balearic Islands, western Mediterranean), we examined the consequences of the disruption of the mutualism between two endemic species: a perennial shrub, (Daphne rodriguezii [Texidor]) and a frugivorous lizard (Podarcis lilfordi [Günther]). The lizard became extinct from this island (as well as from Mallorca) as a result of the introduction of carnivorous mammals, which has continued since Roman times. The relict mutualism between D. rodriguezii and the lizard currently persists only in an islet (60 ha) (Illa d`en Colom) where P. lilfordi is still abundant. We hypothesized that the absence of this lizard from most Menorcan populations is the factor causing the regression of this plant, currently considered at risk of extinction. Through observation and experimentation in the field and laboratory, we found strong evidence that a lack of seed dispersal in Menorca is the main cause of the low seedling recruitment. First, the population with greatest seedling recruitment was that in the islet where lizards were abundant. Second, lizards appeared to be the only dispersers of D. rodriguezii. Lizards consumed large amounts of fruits, without affecting either germination or seedling growth, and moved seeds to sites suitable for plant establishment. Seedlings in Menorca, in contrast, recruited almost exclusively under the parent plants. Third, the effect of other factors that may influence plant population growth (a low fruit set and a high postdispersal seed predation) was similar between the islet and the Menorcan populations. To our knowledge, our results are the first that quantitatively show that a biological invasion can cause a disruption of a specialized plant-vertebrate mutualism that sets the plant partner on the road to extinction.
Traveset, A. & Sáez, E. (1997) -
The patterns of flower visitation by lizards (Podarcis lilfordi, Lacertidae) and insects (mainly flies, bees and wasps) on the shrub Euphorbia dendroides, were studied in the island of Cabrera (Balearic Islands) during the flowering seasons of 1995 and 1996. Lizards act as true pollinators of the plant, moving large quantities of pollen within and among shrubs. To our knowledge, this is the first time that pollination by lizards has been empirically demonstrated. Variation in the quantitative component of pollination (frequency of visits x flower visitation rate) by the two groups of pollinators (lizards and insects) is documented at both spatial (within a plant population) and temporal scales (throughout the flowering season and between seasons). Variation in lizard density on a small spatial scale (within c. 200 m), presumably due to differences in vegetation cover, strongly affected their frequency of flower visitation. Insects were rather scarce, mainly because the plant flowers at a time (mid-March) when temperatures are still low. At the site where lizards were abundant, their frequency of flower visits was more than 3 times that of insects, they stayed on the shrubs about 3 times longer and visited about 8 times more cyathia per minute than did insects. Fruit and seed set were greater at this site, and this is attributed to the different frequency of flower visits by lizards, as shrubs are similar in size and produce similar amounts of cyathia in the two sites compared. Both, lizards and insects went more frequently to plants with large flower crops. However, flower crop was not associated with seed viability. We found no evidence for pollinator-mediated selection on plant traits related to fitness.
Trávnicek, J. (1990) -
Treer, D. & Jelić, D. & Lončar, M. & Čulina, A. (2006) -
Treffler, J. & Feiertag, C. & Zahn, A. & Moning, C. (2024) -
Der fortschreitende Landnutzungswandel mit einer Vereinheitlichung der Landschaft gefährdet Zauneidechsen-Populationen in Deutschland. Ein zielgerichtetes Habitatmanagement ist notwendig, um die verbliebenen Populationen zu sichern. Dazu müssen bestehende wie auch neuangelegte Habitate optimiert, gepflegt und aufgewertet sowie durch Trittsteinbiotope mit anderen Lebensräumen verknüpft werden. In der Praxis hat sich in strukturarmen Lebensräumen die Anlage von Kleinstrukturen bewährt. Daztzählen unter anderem`Reisighaufen. Vorstudien zeigten, dass Zauneidechsen diese signifikant bevorzugen. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt die Ergebnisse einer Studie vor, welche an einer individuenstarken Zauneidechsen- Population in der BUND-Naturschutz Kiesgrube Heldenstein (Lkr. Mühldorl Oberbayern) deren Raumnutzung untersuchte und erneut die Präferenz der Reisighaufen feststellen konnte. Der Artikel stellt heraus, wie Reisighaufen und das umgebende Habitat ausgestaltet sein müssen, um von Zauneidechsen bevorzugt angenommen zu werden. Im Untersuchungsgebiet war ein möglichst heterogenes Habitatmosaik aus verschiedenen Vegetationshöhen, offener Extensivweideflächen und Rohböden mit grabbarem Substrat im Umfeld der Kleinstrukturen entscheidend. Kleinstrukturen wurden durch die Population vor allem in Cruppen angenommen/ welche innerhalb kurzer Wanderdistanzen erreicht werden konnten und von einem ausreichend hohen Anteil an Altgras (Weiderest) und niedrigen Sträuchern umgeben waren. Klimatisch besonders exponierte, trockene und heiße Standorte wurden innerhalb des Lebensraumes im Verlauf der Aktivitätsperiode zunehmend gemieden, während gerade im Sommer Kleinstrukturen über lehmigem Substrat mit kontinuierlicher Bodenfeuchte aufgesucht wurden. Dies unterstützt die Hypothese, dass sich die Habitatansprüche durch den Klimawandel verschieben und besonders trockene Bodenverhältnisse häufiger gemieden werden. Die Erkenntnisse für ein zukünftiges Habitatmanagement fiür Zauneidechsen werden abschließend zusammengefasst und ergänzen bestehende Praxisleitfäden über die Anlage von Kleinstrukturen in Reptilienhabitaten. Die Anlage von Kleinstrukturen dient hier jedoch lediglich der Optimierung von Lebensräumen und stellt keinesfalls einen Ersatz fi.ir flächenbezogene Ausgleichsmaßnahmen dar.
Tremeau de Rohebrune, A. (1843) -
Trepte, M. (1992) -
Treweek, J.R. & Hankard, P. & Roy, D.B. & Arnold, H. & Thompson, S. (1998) -
Environmental impact assessment (EIA) has a potential role in sustainable development. However, its commonest application has been at the project level, where it fails to ensure adequate consideration of potentially serious trans-boundary, widespread, indirect, cumulative and synergistic ecological effects. The fact that ecological effects cannot be predicted or evaluated effectively if EIA is confined to single development actions and contrained by artificial boundaries is an important justification for moves towards the strategic application of EIA. The need for a more strategic approach to ecological assessment can be illustrated by reference to road development in the UK, where project-level EIA has failed to quantify the overall impact of new road development on biodiversity. Some form of strategic ecological assessment (SEcA) is required to ensure that proposed new road development is compatible with international obligations to conserve protected habitats and their associated species. In common with all forms of EIA, the effectiveness of SEcA depends on the ability to define the proposed action or set of actions and to characterize the receiving environment (baseline conditions). The ability to quantify potential impacts and to estimate their risk of occurrence is strongly dependent on the availability, accuracy, reliability and resolution of national data on the distributions of habitats, species and development proposals. This paper summarizes the results of a SEcA carried out to determine whether currently proposed road developments, when considered collectively, would be compatible with the safeguard of an internationally important and protected wildlife habitat (lowland heathland) and associated protected species. The study was carried out using a version of the Countryside Information System developed for the UK Department of the Environment by the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology. Areas of lowland heathland are identified together with «hot spots» where two protected lowland heathland species (sand lizard,Lacerta agilisand the Dartford warbler,Sylvia undataalso occur. Possible risks attributable to proposed new road development are quantified for 1 km squares and evaluated on a county basis.
Triay, R. (1998) -
Trigt, H. van (1917) -
Trinchella, F. & Cannetiello, M. & Simoniello, P. & Filosa, S. & Scudiero, R. (2010) -
Screening for differentially expressed genes is a straightforward approach to study the molecular basis of contaminant toxicity. In this paper, the mRNA differential display technique was applied to analyze transcriptional regulation in response to cadmium exposure in the lizard embryos. Lizard eggs may be particularly susceptible to soil contamination and in ovo exposure may interfere or disrupt normal physiological function in the developing embryo, including regulation of gene expression. Fertilized eggs of the lizard Podarcis sicula were incubated in cadmium-contaminated soil at 25 °C for 20 days. Gene expression profiling showed 5 down- and 9 up-regulated genes. Four cDNAs had no homology to known gene sequences, thus suggesting that may either encode not yet identified proteins, or correspond to untranslated regions of mRNA molecules. Four fragments exhibited significant sequence similarity with genes encoding novel proteins or ESTs derived from other vertebrates. The remaining genes are mainly involved in molecular pathways associated with processes such as membrane trafficking, signal transduction, cytoskeletal organization, cell proliferation and differentiation. Cadmium also affected the expression of factors actively involved in the regulation of the transcription machinery. Down-regulated genes are mainly associated with cellular metabolism and cell-cycle regulation and apoptosis. All of these differentially expressed genes may represent candidates that function in cadmium responses. The present study leads to an increased understanding of genes and/or the biochemical pathways involved in perturbation of embryo development following cadmium exposure.
Tristram, H.B. (1884) -
Trobisch, D. (1993) -
Trobisch, D. (1995) -
Beobachtungen des Paarungsverhaltens und zum Gelege von Algyroides fitzingeri werden mitgeteilt.
Trobisch, D. (2009) -
Trobisch, D. & Gläßer-Trobisch, A. (1997) -
Within our breeding stock of Podarcis siculus, there occurred among normally coloured hatchlings also some individuals lacking normal pigmentation.
Trobisch, D. & Glässer-Trobisch, A. (2005) -
Trobisch, D. & Glässer-Trobisch, A. (2008) -
A population of Takydromus sexlineatus sexlineatus was observed near Bogor (West Java). A total of 70 lizards were caught after they went to sleep shortly before sunset. Measurements taken revealed no sex-specific proportions but distinctly smaller TL:SVL ratios in juveniles as compared to adults. Nearly all males were found to have ocelli.
Trochet, A. & Dupouéa, A. & Soucheta, J. & Bertranda, R. & Deluena, M. & Murarasua, S. & Calveza, O. & Martinez-Silvestre, A. & Verdaguetr-Fozd, I. & Darneta, E. & Chevaliera, H. le Mossoll-Torres, M. & Guillaumea, O. & Aubret, F. (2018) -
Temperature affects the physiological functions of ectotherms. To maintain optimal body temperature and ensure physiological performance, these organisms can use behavioral adjustments to keep the body temperature in their specific temperature range, so-called preferred temperature (Tpref). It is therefore crucial to describe and understand how Tpref vary within and amongst populations to predict the effects of climate change of altitudinal range shifts in organisms. We aimed at determining the altitudinal variations in Tpref in three ectothermic species (the Pyrenean brook salamander – a semi-aquatic and thigmothermic amphibian – the European common lizard and the wall lizard – both heliothermic species). Using an experimental approach where Tpref were measured along a temperature gradient in laboratory conditions, we used a cross-sectional approach to compare the variation of Tpref measured in populations sampled along the altitudinal gradient in the Pyrenees. We hypothesized a complex and highly variable intra-specific response of Tpref along geographical clines, with a positive relationship between Tpref and altitude (as predicted by the countergradient variation), the reverse pattern (referring to the adaptation of local optima hypothesis), or no relationship at all. Our results corroborated partially the countergradient hypothesis in the salamander (middle to high elevation part). At high altitude level, individuals may compensate for lower opportunities of favorable conditions by choosing a high temperature which maximizes their activities. However, populations from low elevation level hence better supported the adaptation of local optima hypothesis, such as both lizard species, for which Tpref tended instead to decrease with altitude. Lizards from cold climates may be physiologically adapted to low temperature, with the ability to reach optimal functioning at lower temperature than individuals from low altitude. Our findings suggest that predicting future niche models should therefore take into account the variability of Tpref, where species might be differently affected by global warming.
Trochet, A. & Richard, M. & Sorlin, M.V. & Guillon, M. & Teulieres-Quillet, J. & Vallé, C. & Rault, C. & Berroneau, & M. Berroneau, M. & Lourdais, O. et al. (2021) -
Aim: Determining whether altitudinal shifts in species distributions leave molecular footprints on wild populations along their range margins from rear to leading edge. Location: South-west France. Methods: We compared the demographic and genetic variation in 42 wild populations of the Western oviparous subclade B2 of a cold adapted lizard (Zootoca vivipara louislantzi). These populations can be divided into four ecological units across altitudinal clines in South-west France (rear edge: <100 m, admixture zone: 100-500 m, continuous range: 500-1300 m and leading edge: >1300 m above sea level). Results: Within the rear edge were found the highest levels of inbreeding, genetic differentiation and evidence of interrupted gene flow compared to central or colonising areas. Within the leading edge, altitudinal range expansion occurred over the last centuries and populations showed relatively low genetic diversity. These demographic and genetic trends were better explained by inhospitable (warm and dry) climate conditions and forest cover. Main conclusions: This empirical evidence illustrates that molecular footprints of climate conditions and habitat quality on wild population trends can be perceived after recent events, which should be of particular importance to accurately understand and anticipate human-induced global change on wild species and ecosystems.
Trócsanyi, B. & Korsós, Z. (2004) -
The occurrence of melanic individuals of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) is reported for the first time in Hungary, with photographic evidence. The population, repeatedly producing totally black individuals in Mecsek Hills, Southern Hungary, was studied in 1998, with morphometric data of captured individuals and lizard counts being the subject of analysis. Data are presented on a total of three melanic specimens which appeared to be phenotypically different from each other, based on their pileal shield patterns. An assessment of the population in a semiurban habitat revealed high abundance in the surveyed plots, and an extremely low occurrence rate for melanic individuals.
Trócsányi, B. & Schäffer, D. & Korsós, Z. (2007) -
Summary The presence of 13 amphibian and 10 reptile species is accepted or proved in the revision of the herpetofauna of Mecsek Mountains, South-Hungary. If the red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) introduced from North America is excluded from the list, the remaining species (18 amphibian and 15 reptiles) represent 72,22% and 60%, respectively, of the Hungarian herpetofauna. Based on a thorough revision of literature and observation data, it can be concluded that among amphibians, the fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra), the alpine newt (Triturus alpestris) and the grass frog (Rana temporaria) are absent from Mecsek Mountains. The status of crested newts (Triturus spp.) present in the target area should be established using molecular taxonomic methods but it is most likely that the species occurring here is T. dobrogicus. The yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata), being a mountain-dwelling species distributed in the Balkans, appears to be the most peculiar species in comparison with surrounding areas. Among Hungarian reptile species, the Pannonian snake-eyed skink (Ablepharus kitaibelii fitzingeri), the Balkan wall lizard (Podarcis taurica), the viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara), the common adder (Vipera berus) and endemic Hungarian meadow viper (Vipera ursinii rakosiensis) are definitely absent. With all reports and possible habitats double-checked, the presence of the large whipsnake (Hierophis caspius) is also rejected. New field data are presented to prove the occurrence of the European pond terrapin (Emys orbicularis) and the dice snake (Natrix tessellata) in Mecsek Mountains. Becoming unwanted as house pets, red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans), are often released and are thus observed in increasing numbers. As an offensive introduced species, they can pose serious threat to native populations of the pond terrapin.
Trócsányi, B., Schäffer, A.D. (2008) -
Trofimov, A.G. & Tzvelych, A.N. (1997) -
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2000) -
Report on a terrarium kept wild caught couple of Lacerta strigata. Remarkable is the hight breeding rate after a `winter rest` of only three weeks at room temperatures.
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2001) -
Gallotia stehlini wurden bei Maspalomas, im Palmitos-Park und bei Soria auf Gran Canaria gezielt mit Rosinen angelockt, um die Tiere zu fotografieren. Dabei konnten die Verfasser deutliche Hierarchien zwischen den Tieren beobachten, in denen stets ein besonders großes, altes Männchen dominierte. Im Palmitos-Park duldete das dominante Männchen ein Weibchen in seiner unmittelbaren Nähe.
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2002) -
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2003) -
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2004) -
Während unseres Aufenthaltes auf der Insel La Gomera konnten wir die Kleine Kanareneidechse (Gallotia caesaris gomerae), den Kanarenskink (Chalcides viridanus coeruleopunctatus) und den Gomera-Gecko (Tarentola gomerensis) meist im selben Lebensraum antreffen. Gelegentlich trafen wir diese sehr unterschiedlichen Reptilien gemeinsam beim Sonnenbaden an, wobei der Abstand der Tiere zueinander oftmals nur wenige Zentimeter betrug. Besonders zahlreich kommen diese Reptilien in Gegenden mit landwirtschaftlicher Nutzung vor. Bei einem Ausflug ins Valle Gran Rey besuchten wir auch die neu errichtete Zuchtstation der Gomera-Rieseneidechsen (Gallotia simonyi bravoana). Im Bereich der an der Nordostküste gelegenen Ortschaft Agulo fanden wir neben den zahlreichen Eidechsen auch außergewöhnlich viele Geckos und Skinke.
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2005) -
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2006) -
Illustrated by specimens of Gallotia galloti palmae from the south and northwest of the Canary Island La Palma the noticeable colour adaptation to their habitat is documented. We assume that these colourations are the result of selective pressure.
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2007) -
During a two week stay to the Cyclade island Tinos in May 2006 we were able to observe the Balkan Gieen Lizard in is natural habitat and take some photographs as well. Lacerta trilineata citrovittata in some cases showed a high flight distance of up to 5o m.
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2009) -
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2010) -
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2011) -
Troidl, A. & Troidl, S. (2012) -
Troidl, S. (1997) -
Troidl, S. (1998) -
Troidl, S. (1999) -
Troidl, S. (2024) -
Troidl, S. & A. Troidl (2020) -
During a stay in Las Palmas (capital of the island of Gran Canaria) in January 2020, we took the opportunity to search for the introduced population of the Madeira wall lizards (Teira dugesii). After initial difficulties, we were able to take some photographs of these shy animals. Furthermore, we give insights into the very limited and extraordinary habitat of these lizards in the middle of this big city.
During our vacation on the Greek islands Paros and Antiparos in May 2019 (10.5-20.5. on Paros and 21.5.-25.5. on Antiparos) we were able to photograph the Aegean Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardii) at several places of which some of them are new records for this lizard. Our photographs illustrate the high variability of the subspecies Podarcis erhardii naxensis, which is widespread on these islands. Despite intense search we were unfortunately not able to find any Cyclades Giant Green Lizard (Lacerta citrovittata). Surprisingly, we found a population of the Yellow bellied Toad (Bombina variegata) near Lefkes. This is the first record for Paros.
Troidl, S. & A. Troidl (2021) -
With this photo documentation we give a herpetological insight into three vacation trips to the Greek islands of Paros and Antiparos in the years 2019, 2020 and 2021. The focus of our interest was the search for further occurrences of the Aegean wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii naxensis) and the scarce and very shy Cycladic Green Lizard (Lacerta citrovittata). During our excursions, we always had an eye for the accompanying herpetofauna and nature in general, which allows us to introduce some more interesting species in this article.
Troidl, S. & Troidl, A. (2008) -
Während eines zweiwöchigen Aufenthaltes in Side und Manavgat (türkische Südküste) konnte Phoenicolacerta laevis an drei Fundorten nachgewiesen werden. Wir fanden diese Art etwa 3 km westlich von Side sowie südlich der Stadt Manavgat und am Ostufer des Titreyen-Göl, einem kleinen See im Mündungsbereich des Manavgat Çay.
Troidl, S. & Troidl, A. (2011) -
During a holiday trip in March 2011 we found the Lebanon Lizard (Phoenicolacerta laevis) along the Lycian Coast between Tekirova and Beldibi. These lizards as well as those from the regions of Side and Manavgat prefer habitats in close proximity to human settlements, hotel complexes and agricultural areas.
Troidl, S. & Troidl, A. (2014) -
areas in different landscapes and climatic zones. Our special interest was the herpetofauna of this island that is poor in species numbers but nonetheless very interesting. One focus was the search for the Tenerife Speckled Lizard (Gallotia intermedia) in the South and Southwest of the island.
Troidl, S. & Troidl, A. (2016) -
From 20.4.-26.4.2015 as well as from 14.4.-26.4.2016 we visited the Canary Island of El Hierro. Our particular interest was directed towards the El Hierro giant lizard (Gallotia simonyi) and Boettger’s lizard (Gallotia caesaris caesaris). With our pictures of the Mediterranean Tree Frog (Hyla meridionalis) from the plateau near Tiñor, we are finally able to give proof of its existence on El Hierro.
Troidl, S. & Troidl, A. (2017) -
During two holiday stays (27.9.–11.10.2016 and 05.03.–12.03.2017) on the Canary Island of La Palma we undertook some herpetological photo excursions. The high variability of the lizard Gallotia galloti palmae was particularly impressive. With the following selection of photographs, which also includes pictures from the south of La Palma made in 2005, we would like to present the interesting herpetofauna as well as the landscape of the island that is full of contrast.
Troidl, S. & Troidl, A. (2019) -
During our vacation on the Greek islands Paros and Antiparos in May 2019 (10.5-20.5. on Paros and 21.5.-25.5. on Antiparos) we were able to photograph the Aegean Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardii) at several places of which some of them are new records for this lizard. Our photographs illustrate the high variability of the subspecies Podarcis erhardii naxensis, which is widespread on these islands. Despite intense search we were unfortunately not able to find any Balkan Green Lizards of the subspecies Lacerta trilineata citrovittata. Surprisingly, we found a population of the Yellow-bellied Toad (Bombina variegata) near Lefkes. This is the first record for Paros.
Troidl, S. & Troidl, A. (2020) -
Troidl, S. & Troidl, A. (2023) -
During a stay on the Cyclades island of Andros, in addition to the ubiquitous Erhard’s Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardii mykonensis), some specimens of the magnificent Cyclades Giant Green Lizard (Lacerta citrovittata) could also be photographed. The exceptionally high variability of coloring and markings in the Erhard’s Wall Lizards is remarkably. Photographs of the accompanying herpetofauna, habitats and landscapes offer further interesting insights into the impressive nature of this island.
Troidl, S. & Troidl, A. & Hahnemann, S. (2022) -
In July, September and October 2022, the authors independently visited populations of introduced wall lizards in Berlin. Wall lizards were found in the districts of Reinickendorf and Lichterfelde. The large morphological differences of the wall lizards in these two districts are remarkable and are impressively documented with photos. We provide maps with an overview of the previously known distribution of two introduced populations in the district of Lichterfelde. Afterwards we collected further interesting information on the Berlin wall lizards and sand lizards.
Troidl, S. & Troidl, A. & Hahnemann, S. (2023) -
Tromp, W.I. & Avery, R.A. (1977) -
The relationship of VO2 to temperature in juvenile Lacerta vivipara from a cool temperature climate showed a shift between 15 and 20°C, resulting in the elevation of the lower portion of the curve in a semi-logarithmic plot.
Trost, F. (1922) -
Truck Jr., R.G. (1974) -
Trujillo González, D. (2008) -
Trujillo, B.F. & Arechavaleta Hernández, M. (2014) -
Trujillo, B.F. et al. (2023) -
RedEXOS is the Early Warning Network of the Canary Islands for the detection and intervention of invasive alien species. It is integrated into the State Warning Network by the Decree 117/2020, of November 19, and its main objective is to prevent the establishment of new outbreaks or populations of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) or those with invasive potential in the Canary Islands. The Network is also in charge of compiling and coordinating the information on the appearance of IAS included in the Spanish Catalog of Invasive Alien Species or in the List of worrisome invasive alien species for the outermost region of the Canary Islands, or species with invasive potential in the Canary Islands that can be identified as such by the Autonomous Community of the Canary Islands. Biological invasions are one of the main causes of biodiversity loss on islands, so early detection is very important both to achieve greater success in eradication, and to reduce costs, the complexity of the intervention and the impacts on biodiversity. This oral presentation presents two species of invasive reptiles which are included in the List of worrying invasive alien species for the outermost region of the Canary Islands in which this official network of the Government of the Canary Islands, RedEXOS, is currently involved. RedEXOS has been working, since 2017, on the early detection of invasive species or potentially invasive before they become an ecological problem in the archipelago. For this, it has a platform, which includes a mobile app and a website, developed to encourage citizen participation and to unify information on the appearance and management of IAS in the Canarian territory. The poster presented includes the balance of sightings and interventions recorded on the RedEXOS platform. Although flora requires a greater number of interventions, is the fauna the one that needs urgent interventions. Among the interventions with invasive reptiles, data of two species that are included in the List of worrisome invasive alien species for the outermost region of the Canary Islands are presented. They are Anolis carolinensis, on the island of Tenerife, and Chamaeleo calyptratus on Gran Canaria. This official network of the Government of the Canary Islands is currently working on them, doing monitoring and control tasks. Furthermore, the problem of translocated native species is presented. An example is explained with the populations of the giant lizard of Gran Canaria (Gallotia stehlini) located on other islands of the Canary archipelago.
Trujillo, C.M. & Alonso, A. & Damas, C. (2004) -
We have studied the organization of the midbrain radial glia in embryos of Gallotia galloti using the fluorescent lipophilic dye 1,1_-dioctadecyl-3,3,3_,3_-tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate (DiI) and the antibodies H5 and RC2. Our goal was to verify if the radial glia takes part in the midbrain boundaries formation and if it defines different zones. Our exam reveals two clear limits, anterior or mesencephalic–diencephalic (m/d) and posterior or mesencephalic–rhombencephalic (m/r), that can be defined as the borders where the midbrain radial glia processes end. Moreover, fasciculate radial glia processes characterize these limits totally or partially. They coincide with gene expression limits and with cytoarchitectonic limits defined by other criteria. Six different subdivisions, five alar and one basal, can be defined according to radial glia distribution, fasciculation, and immunohistochemical features. The ventral part of the alar region is defined by an RC2-positive bundle of radial glial cells. This bundle supposes a trustworthy landmark to point out the tectal/ tegmental boundary. We hypothesize that this pattern of midbrain radial glia represents a basic model in amniota.
Trujillo, C.M. & Yanes, C.M. & Marrero, A. & Perez, M.A. & Martin, J.M. (1987) -
In the striatum, thalamus and cerebellum of a Lacertid reptile, we have found three types of cellular death during embryonic development, both at the light and electron microscopic level. The first affects the undifferentiated neuro-epithelial cells and is commonest during the early stages (E. 32-E. 36). The second corresponds to the type of `nuclear` death described in the bibliography and reaches a maximum in the middle embryonic period (E. 37-E. 39); nevertheless important variations were observed in different zones. The third is the same as the `cytoplasmic` death type and appears in the perinatal stages. Phagocytosis involved in the elimination of dead cells is of two types. One is associated with early death and is carried out by undifferentiated neuro-epithelial cells. The other is carried out by microglial cells which appear around Stage 37. Much cellular debris was observed in the intermediate zone and this was associated with the second type of phagocytosis. In both cases lipid production was associated with the degenerative process. Comparison of the temporal cellular death pattern with synaptogenesis, gliogenesis and maturation of neuronal processes is consistent with the view that the various types of cellular death found by us had different causes.
Trutnau, L. (1986) -
Truweller, K.A. Makarov, A.N. & Orlova, V.F. (1993) -
Truweller, K.A. Makarov, A.N. & Orlova, V.F. (1994) -
Tsaruk, O.J. (1986) -
Tsasi, G. & Pafilis, P. & Simou, C. & Valakos, E.D. (2009) -
Caudal autotomy, the self-induced tail shedding from the body, is a common defensive strategy in lizards. Tail loss is followed rapidly by regeneration, revealing the importance of a fully functional tail. Predation pressure has been traditionally correlated with autotomy performance. However there is a lack of evidence regarding the impact of predation regime on tail regeneration. Another important factor that has been neglected is the population density. Though it is well established that crowding alters various life-history traits, the impact of density on caudal regeneration remains understudied. In this paper we compared three island populations of the Aegean Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardii) that have evolved under different levels of predation pressure: whereas the Naxos population is exposed to numerous predators the Kopries and Daskalio islet populations experience low predation pressure. To evaluate the effect of density-induced stress on caudal regeneration, lizards were treated under two conditions of housing, in single and crowded (six individuals) terraria. Tail sheding occurred prior to this treatment following a standardised method. The length of regenerated tail was recorded weekly. Regeneration rate was higher in single terraria when compared to crowded, reflecting the negative impact of crowding. However we failed to detect any statistically significant difference between single and crowded terraria in the case of Naxos. We believe that the underlying reason must be the heavy predation pressure under which rapid tail regeneration, even under unfavourable conditions, is crucial for survival. It seems that the imperious need for regeneration counteracts density-induced stress.
Tsasi, G. & Simou, C. & Pafilis, P. & Foufopoulos, J. & Bitchava, D. & Valakos, E. (2007) -
Tail autotomy is one of the most efficient antipredator mechanisms in lizards. Tail condition is crucial to the overall fitness of a lizard and has important impacts on many seminal life history functions (energy storage, locomotion, social status). Regrowth of an autotomised tail is a complex and energy-consuming mechanism that deprives resources from other substantial processes such as reproduction or immune response. It has been established that regeneration rate and effectiveness may be influenced by many different factors. In the present study we tried to assess the impact of haemoparasites (Hepatozoon sp.) and intraspecific competition on regeneration performance. We conducted this study on the Aegean wall lizard deriving from Naxos complex biotopes (main island and surrounding islets) where population densities vary significantly and parasite loads may be different (Haemophysalis sp. ticks introduced on some islands by goats). In order to simulate these diverse densities lizards were housed in individual and group (8 animals per each) terraria. The length of the tail was measured weekly, Hepatozoon parasitemia was quantified by examining thin blood smears under the microscope whereas corticosterone levels, the main stress hormone, were recorded in all cases. We failed to detect any difference regarding parasite load in the regeneration rate among studied populations. In contrast, regeneration rate was lower in the case of lizards that were housed in group terraria. This suggests that though infection status has a minor impact on tail regrowth, population density affects thoroughly the feature under study.
Tsasi, G. & Simou, C. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2008) -
Autotomy consists in the voluntary shedding of an expendable body part under conditions of defense. The broad phylogenetic expression of this trait represents the evolutionary success of this strategy. Caudal autotomy in lizards is followed rapidly by regeneration, revealing the importance of a fully functional tail. Predation pressure has been traditionally correlated with the tail autotomy performance. However there is a lack of evidence regarding the impact of predation regime on tail regeneration. Another important factor that has been neglected is the population density. Though it is well established that intraspecific competition in dense (usually insular) populations increase tail shedding performance, the impact of density on caudal regeneration remains understudied. In this paper we worked with three populations of the Aegean wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii) experiencing different predation pressure: while Naxos island (the biggest in Cyclades group) hosts numerous predators, including snakes (and one species of viper), Kopries and Daskalio islets are snake-free biotopes. In order to evaluate the effect of density-induced stress on caudal regeneration, lizards were treated under two conditions of grouping, in one- individual and in six-idnividual terraria, and always in respect to their origin forming hence 6 different groups. Tail sheding occurred prior to this treatment following a standardised method. The length of the regenerated tail was recorder weekly. We used exclusively adult males in order to eliminate the impact of female particularities (oviposition, gravidity). Regeneration rate was higher in the case of one-individual terraria for both islets. We believe that this finding could be attributed to the stress conditions exerted in the “crowded” terraria. Nonetheless no significant difference was found in the rates between one- and six-individual terraria in Naxos Island. We believe that the underlying reason must be the heavy predation regime under which fast tail regeneration is of a crucial importance, even under unfavourably overcrowded conditions.
Tschechne, J. & Hallermann, J. (2020) -
Tschopp, E. (2016) -
Vertebral laminae are bony ridges or sheets that connect important morphological landmarks on the vertebrae, like diapophyses or zygapophyses. They usually exhibit some serial variation throughout the column. A consistent terminology facilitates the morphological description of this variation, and the recognition of patterns that could be taxonomically significant and could serve as phylogenetic characters. Such a terminology was designed for saurischian dinosaurs, and has also been applied to other members of Archosauri- formes. Herein, this terminology is applied for the first time to lizards (Squamata). Probably due to their generally smaller size compared to saurischian dinosaurs, lizards have less developed vertebral laminae. Some laminae could not be recognized in this group and oth- ers require new names to account for differences in basic vertebral morphology. For instance, the fusion of diapophysis and parapophysis in lacertids into a structure called synapophysis necessitates the creation of the new term synapophyseal laminae for both diapophyseal and parapophyseal laminae. An assessment of occurrence and serial varia- tion in a number of lacertid species shows that some laminae develop throughout ontogeny or only occur in large-sized species, whereas the distribution of other laminae might prove to be taxonomically significant in future.
Tschopp, E. & Ferro, L. & Camaiti, M. & Fanelli, M. & Giovanardi, S. & Villa, A. & Delfino, M. (2016) -
Tschopp, E. & Villa, A. & Camaiti, M. & Ferro, L. & Tuveri, C. & Rook, L. & Arca, M. & Delfino, M. (2018) -
Tschudi, J.J. (1836) -
Tschudi, J.J. (1837) -
Tsellarius A.Yu. & Tsellarius E.Yu. & Galoyan E.A. (2016) -
When a female goes over to the settled way of life, the territory of a male with a high frequency of affilia- tive behavior (A-behavior) with respect to this female always becomes the formation centre of the female’s permanent home range. As the frequency of the male’s A-behavior becomes stably high (or low) in the first days of existence of a dyad and does not depend on the female’s behavior, it can be concluded that the choice of the male, rather than that of the female, underlies any long-term male – female connection, and it is just social choice rather than sexual one. The male’s sexual and affiliative activities in re- sponse to his female do not correlate with each other. The affiliativity and sexual activity of the male to- wards several females are unequal, and the attitudes of several males to the same female are usually un- equal as well. Therefore, the probability of a female becoming a permanent sexual partner of the male is determined by two circumstances simultaneously: this female must be both socially attractive (which pro- vides her stable residence) and sexually attractive. In other words, any female must pass a «double filter» to become a permanent sexual partner of a male.
Целлариус А.Ю., Целлариус Е.Ю., Галоян Э.А. (2016) -
При переходе самки к устойчивой оседлости ядром формирования ее постоянного участка обитания всегда становилась территория самца с высокой частотой аффилиативного поведения в отношении этой самки. Поскольку частота А-поведения самца формируется в первые дни существования диады и не зависит от поведения самки, следует заключить, что в основе многолетней связи лежит выбор самца, а не самки, причем выбор социальный, а не сексуальный. Уровень аффилиативности и сексуальная активность самца по отношению к самке не коррелируют друг с другом. Аффилиативность и сексуальная активность самца по отношению к разным самкам различны, так же как различно отношение разных самцов к одной и той же самке. Таким образом, вероятность того, что самка станет постоянной сексуальной партнершей данного самца, определяется одновременно двумя условиями: самка должна быть как социально привлекательной (что обеспечивает устойчивую оседлость самки), так и сексуально привлекательной. Иными словами, самка, чтобы стать постоянной сексуальной партнершей самца, должна пройти «двойной фильтр».
Tsellarius, A.Y. & Cherlin, V.A. (1981) -
Tsellarius, A.Y. & Tesellarius, E.Y. (2001) -
Tsellarius, A.Y. & Tsellarius, E.Y. (2001) -
The lizard Lacerta saxicola inhabits all oak forests on valley slopes in the investigated area. It occurs permanently in beam-beech forests on valley bottoms only in gaps forming as a result of falling trees. The lizard population in the gaps amounted to about 8% of the total one in the forests. The population density in gaps is several times as high as on slopes. The gap populations are stable closed settlements of territorial adults. The juveniles are forced out of the gaps to valley slopes. The abundance of food and shelters on valley bottoms is much higher than on its slopes. In forests, the conditions for lizards are unfavorable due to lower temperature. They can bask only in gaps. The lizards from slopes visit periodically valley bottoms, but in gaps they do not leave their settlements. In hot periods lizards migrate from slopes to valley bottoms. This situation is repeated every year. In the period of mass miggration in gaps lizard populations remain closed and permanent by their composition. Settled males from gaps mate with local settled females as well as with those from slopes coming to gaps. Males from slopes have then opportunity to mate only with females from the same biotope.
Целлариус Е.Ю., Целлариус А.Ю. (2001) -
Tsellarius, A.Y. & Tsellarius, E.Y. (2005) -
Changes of the space use pattern by males and females of the rock lizard (Lacerta saxi- cola) and the process of establishing socio-sexual interrelations are described. The or- dered pattern of space use enables the development of a complicated system of interre- lations between males and females but it does not completely determine the structure of this system. Our long-term observations make it clear that, contrary to the generally ac- cepted conceptions, the system of intersexual relations does not directly refer to repro- ductive success. Whereas females, keeping in touch with males, obtain the possibility to use the habitat resources in the best way and the possibility to choose their sexual part- ners, males do not obtain this. Aggressive males, defending their territories, obtain the possibility of communicating with females, which is much more attractive than copula- tion itself.
Целлариус Е.Ю., Целлариус А.Ю. (2005) -
В современной литературе принято рассматривать системы социосексуальных отношений (mating system) с точки зрения максимизации репродуктивного успеха особей (Emlen, Oring, 1977). Поскольку самцы продуцируют только сперму, репродуктивный успех самок зависит от доступности не столько самцов, сколько ресурсов. Для самцов наоборот, репродуктивный успех определяется количеством оплодотворенных самок. Следовательно, распределение самок в пространстве определяется ресурсами, а распределение самцов - размещением самок (Davies, 1992). Если участки самок невелики и близко расположены, самцы полигамны. При этом чем больше территория самца, тем выше его репродуктивный успех. Моногамия в форме охраны полового партнера самцом может возникать у нетерриториальных видов ящериц, когда самки занимают большие индивидуальные участки (Stamps, 1983; Davies, 1992). Действительно, такие примеры найдены среди представителей Scincidae (Bull, 1994; Olsson, Shine, 1998), но гипотеза охраны полового партнера не может объяснить большой продолжительности парных связей до спаривания и инциденты воссоединения пар по инициативе самок (How, Bull, 2002).
Tsellarius, A.Y. & Tsellarius, E.Y. (2006) -
The territory of male was formed around centers of the activity of settled females. A young male obtained an access to these centers only in the case when the territorial male died and new centers had been formed within his home range. A direct aggression towards other males appeared when the male obtained an access to regular contacts with females. This access might be unlimited when all or the majority of the centers of female activity were within the male territory (α-males). The access might be partly limited when the territory contained only one or few such centers (β-males). In α-males, the obligatory aggression of high intensity was provoked by the behavior of an intruder, which as improper for its status, or by the attempts to rape any female. The intruder`s courting to female provoked aggression only in 80% of instances. The most intense aggression of β-male was caused by the intruders` attempts to court the female that was preferable for him or by his invasion into the her activity center. The territories of males with different status proved to differ in both the motivation of their behavior and their position in a system of social relationships and use of resources.
Целлариус А.Ю., Целлариус Е.Ю. (2006) -
Tsellarius, A.Y. & Tsellarius, E.Y. (2009) -
Rock lizards were caught and marked in a beech-hombeam forest in the Navagir Mountains between the cities of Anapa and Novorossiisk in 1997-2006. The age of lizards was determined by the skeletochronological method using the 2nd and 3rd phalanges of amputated fingers. The age may be correctly determined only in 5-year-old lizards, since after 5 years, the growth of phalanges sharply slows down. The observations were conducted up to the end of the summer of 2006. The mean longevity in mature settled lizards was not less than 9 ± 2.7 years (n = 20). 50% of the settled individuals reached the age of 10 years. The maximal age recorded in the lizards was 13 years. All three individuals at this age were alive at the end of the observations. The death on hibernation is the main mortality factor.
Tsellarius, A.Y. & Tsellarius, E.Y. & Galoyan, E.A. (2016) -
There exist long-term intersexual friendly relationships between males and females of Brauner’s lizard that are characterized by high levels of spatial association and affiliative behavior of partners (see report 1). In this article, alternations in the frequency of affiliative behavior in males (Am) and females (Af) after the first appearance of a female on the male’s territory are considered, as well as conditions for the transition of the lizard to a stable residency (SR). Am becomes stable during a few-day initial period and does not change later. This suggests that criteria of the male’s choice are some peculiarities of the female’s exterior. In the initial period, Af is always low, but if Am is high, it gradually rises up to the level of Am. The main condition of the female’s SR is high Am of the owner of the territory in which the female’s comfort areas come to be. Thus, social partner choice in the female is based on the male’s behavior, and a high Am is a trigger which starts up the formation of friendly interrelations. A significant correlation between social and sexual interrelations is absent. As we can judge by the female’s reactions to sexual behavior of the male, its sexual activity is rather a factor of social disintegration. Social strategies are well interpreted in terms of the optimal foraging theory.
Целлариус А.Ю., ЦеллариусЕ.Ю., Галоян Э.А. (2016) -
Между самцами и самками ящерицы Браунера существуют многолетние интерсексуальные друже- ственные связи, характеризующиеся высоким уровнем пространственной ассоциации и высокой частотой аффилиативного поведения партнеров (сообщение 1). В сообщении 2 рассматриваются изменения частоты аффилиативного поведения самцов (Am) и самок (Af) с момента появления сам- ки на территории самца, а также условия перехода ящериц к устойчивой оседлости. Am стабилизи- руется в первые дни после возникновения диады и далее, как правило, сохраняется неизменной, что заставляет предполагать, что критерием выбора социального партнера у самца в большинстве слу- чаев являются некие особенности внешности самки. Af на начальном этапе всегда низка, затем по- степенно “подтягивается” до уровня Am. Главным условием устойчивой оседлости самки является вы- сокая Am самца, на территории которого оказываются ее зоны комфорта. Т.о. критерием выбора со- циального партнера у самки является поведение самца; высокий уровень Am является триггером, запускающим формирование дружественных отношений. Достоверная связь между социальными и сексуальными взаимоотношениями отсутствует. Судя по реакциям самки на сексуальное поведение самца, его сексуальная активность является скорее фактором социальной дезинтеграции. Структу- ра затрат на поиск социального партнера у самцов и самок различна, и с этими различиями хорошо согласуются различия в стратегии выбора партнера. Социальные стратегии хорошо интерпретиру- ются в терминах теории оптимального кормодобывания.
Tsellarius, A.Y. & Tsellarius, E.Y. & Galoyan, E.A. (2008) -
Both adult males and females react to juveniles like their reaction to females. The pre- vailing reaction of adult females are threat or attack, indifference was rarely observed, and orientation approaching was recorded extremely rare. Circumduction, as a common display stopping the aggression of territorial males (t-males), does not stop female`s ag- gression. The prevailing response of non-territorial males (p-males) has distinct features of sexual aggression. The prevailing response of t-males to juveniles` routine behavior is indifference or orientation approaching, it was a threat in rare cases. The main re- sponse to circumduction is orientation approaching, no aggression has been observed. In t-males, unlike females and p-males, such a type of aggression as attacking has been never observed as well. Juveniles, however, avoid all the adults equally. In habitats densely populated with adults, the abundance of juveniles is lower and the level of their nomadism is higher than in sparsely populated habitats. In densely populated habitats, the juveniles are being displaced from the plots favorable for adults. The main role in this displacement is played by adult females. It is doubtful, however, that this displace- ment has any influence on the survival of juveniles, since they are able to successfully use a much broader spectrum of ecological conditions than adults, especially insolation and refuges which are the limiting conditions in the area under survey. Key words: Lacertidae, behavioral ecology, social interrelations, social behavior.
Целлариус А.Ю., Целлариус Е.Ю., Галоян Э.А. (2008) -
Как самцы, так и самки скальной ящерицы реагируют на ювенильных особей аналогично реагированию на самок. Преобладающей реакцией взрослых самок является угроза или нападение, безразличие наблюдалось реже, ориентировочное сближение - крайне редко. Циркумдукция, типичная для ювенусов демонстрация, останавливающая агрессию территориальных самцов (т-самцов), не останавливает агрессию самок. У нетерриториальных самцов (б-самцы) преобладающая реакция несет отчетливые черты сексуальной агрессии. У т-самцов преобладающей реакцией на рутинное поведение ювенусов является безразличие или ориентировочное сближение, угроза наблюдалась редко. Основная реакция на циркумдукцию - ориентировочное сближение, агрессия не наблюдалась никогда. У т-самцов также, в отличие от самок и б-самцов, никогда не наблюдался такой тип агрессивного поведения, как нападение. Ювенусы, тем не менее, одинаково избегают всех взрослых особей. В биотопах с высокой плотностью населения взрослых ящериц численность ювенусов и уровень их оседлости ниже, чем в биотопах с разреженным населением. В плотно заселенных биотопах ювенусы вытесняются с участков, благоприятных для половозрелых особей. Основная роль в вытеснении ювенусов из благоприятных местообитаний принадлежит самкам. Однако маловероятно, что данное вытеснение существенно влияет на выживаемость ювенильных особей, поскольку ювенусы способны успешно использовать гораздо более широкий спектр условий, по сравнению со взрослыми. Особенно это касается мест баскинга и убежищ - лимитирующих условий в районе исследований.
A natural settlement of rock lizard was observed on the Navagir Ridge (Krasnodar Territory) in 1997–2006. In different years, the settlement included from 18 to 28 adult individuals. The frequency of affiliative behavior in the course of intersexual contacts and the frequency of attendance of comfort female areas by male allowed us to reveal three types of intersexual dyad relationships. They are as follows: (1) the friendly, or A-interrelations (maximal values of both indices; maximal duration of interrelation; and the only reason for the termination of interrelations – death of one of the partners); (2) the R-interrelations (minimal values of all the indices and the main reason for the termination of interrelations – female resettlement); and (3) the Ninterrelations (intermediate values of indices and the main reason for the termination of interrelations – transition to another type of interrelation). Both males and females could simultaneously have several R- and Ninterrelations. In males, the A-attitude towards only single female was always observed. In females, the A-attitude may be formed simultaneously towards two males. Approximately one third of the friendly connected groups were polyandrous triads (female and two males), the rest were monogamous (male and female). Apparently, in this species there is a general tendency towards social polyandry, which is restrained by certain social and/or environmental factors.
В течение 1997–2006 гг. на южном макросклоне хребта Навагир (Краснодарский край) мы вели на- блюдения за естественным поселением ящериц Браунера. Поселение включало в разные годы от 18 до 28 взрослых особей. Анализ двух показателей – частоты аффилиативного поведения в ходе ин- терсексуальных контактов и частоты посещения самцом зон комфорта самки – позволил вы- явить три типа диадных взаимоотношений: дружественные, или А-отношения (максимальная ве- личина обоих показателей, наибольшая продолжительность существования отношений, един- ственная причина прекращения взаимоотношений – гибель одного из партнеров); R-отношения (минимальные значения, непродолжительное существование, преобладающая причина прекра- щения – откочевка самки); N-отношения (промежуточные значения, преобладающая причина прекращения – переход к другому типу отношений). У самцов и самок R- и N-отношения были множественными, А-отношения у самца складывались всегда только с одной самкой, у самки могли складываться одновременно с двумя самцами. Около трети групп, связанных дружествен- ными интерсексуальными отношениями, являются полиандрическими триадами (самка и два самца), остальные группы моногамные (самец и самка). По-видимому, у данного вида существу- ет общая тенденция к социальной полиандрии, которая сдерживается некими социальными и/или экологическими факторами.
Tsellarius, A.Y. & Tsellarius, E.Y. & Galoyan, E.A. (2017) -
Long-termed intersexual friendly relationships between males and females of the Brauner’s lizard are characterized by high levels of spatial association and high frequency of affiliative behavior between partners (see report 1). In present article we consider changes in the frequency of affiliative behavior in males (Am) and females (Af) after the first appearance of female on the male’s territory and conditions for the transition of lizard to stable residency (SR). Generally, Am becomes stable during the first days of initial period and does not change later. This fact suggests that in most instances male’s choice criteria are some peculiarities of the female’s exterior. In the initial period, Af is always low, however, gradually rises to the level of Am if Am is high. The main condition of female’s SR is high Am of the owner of the territory where female establishes her comfort areas. Hence, social partner choice in female is based on male’s behavior, and high Am triggers the formation of friendly interrelations. Significant correlation between social and sexual interrelations is absent. As can be judged by female’s reactions to male’s sexual behavior, his sexual activity is rather a factor of social disintegration. Structure of costs for social partner search is different in males and females, and these differences well harmonize with differences in gender strategies of partner choice. The social strategies are well interpreted in terms of the optimal foraging theory.
Tsellarius, A.Y. &Tsellarius, E.Y. & Galoyan, E.A. (2017) -
Friendly intersexual relationships in Brauneri lizard are characterized by high levels of spatial association (frequency of male attendance female’s comfort areas, ZA) and by high frequency of affiliative behaviour both male (Am) and female (Af). Territory of each male is used by several females simultaneously. If a male has Apartner, Am and ZA do not increase on relation to any other female up to death of A-partner. Among main causes of male monogyny are monopolisation by females their comfort areas and A-female’s moderation of affiliative behaviour of male and “females-claimants”, i.e., monogyny is a result of competition between females to a considerable extent. Initiation of A-interrelation is possible in only conditions of high population density, small home ranges and long-continued stay of females in open sites. Thus, social relationships are also determined with ecological conditions.
Целлариус, А.Ю. &Целлариус, Е.Ю. & Галоян, Э.А. (2017) -
Дружественные интерсексуальные связи (А-отношения) у ящерицы Браунера характеризуются вы- соким уровнем пространственной ассоциации (частота посещения самцом зон комфорта самки) и высокой частотой встречаемости аффилиативного поведения как самца, так и самки. Территория каждого самца используется несколькими самками. Если у самца есть А-партнерша, повышение его аффилиативности и посещаемости зон комфорта по отношению к любой другой самке до гибели А-партнерши как правило не происходит. Одним из сдерживающих факторов является конкурен- ция между самками, которая выражается в монополизации зон комфорта и влиянии А-партнерши на поведение как самца, так и “самки-претендентки”. Формирование А-отношений возможно только в условиях высокой плотности населения, небольших размеров индивидуальных участков и продолжительного пребывания самок на открытом пространстве и, таким образом, социальные от- ношения определяются также экологическими условиями.
Tsellarius, A.Yu. (2024) -
Main observations were made in a sample plot (by 10 km2) during 1999–2023. In 1999 about 40% of the sample plot was arable lands. In 2000–2003 the ploughing had been stopped. In sandy patches, former arables began to be replaced by heathlands with xerophytic grass and sparse sprouts of pine. In 1999–2005 Z. vivipara inhabited the outer edges of flood- plain forest with high density; L. agilis distribution was restricted to small patch (about 25 ha) of drained peatland located 4 km away from floodplain forest. Since 2006 L. agilis began to in- habit arising heathlands, and by 2019 its population has reached high density there. Z. vivipara was pushed out of the forest edges into the floodplain. In 2000–2023, the duration of period with favorable for lizards activity temperature conditions was for 15–17 days longer than in 1978–1999. There is a desire to suggest that spatial redistribution of lizards is dependent on temperature conditions. However, comparison of lizard’s distribution in sample plot with the same in adjacent areas, where agricultural lands were absent and heathlands were widely repre- sented, indicates that main factors of lizard’s habitat re-distribution are a decrease of anthropo- genic pressure, natural succession of vegetation communities and interspecific competition in the lizards. Climate change could be the cause of increase in the growth rate of population on newly settled areas, but it not be a trigger of a spread.
А.Ю. Целлариус (2024) -
Основные данные получены на пробной площади (около 10 км2) в Костром- ской области в 1999 – 2023 гг. В 1999 г. около 40% пробной площади занимали пахотные земли. В 2000 – 2003 гг. распашка большей части земель прекратилась, и на песчаных участ- ках бывших пашен начали формироваться пустоши. В 1999 – 2005 гг. Z. vivipara с высокой плотностью заселяла опушки припойменного леса, а распространение L. agilis ограничи- валось небольшим участком торфяников (около 25 га). С 2006 г. L. agilis начала рассе- ляться по возникающим пустошам и к 2019 г. заселила пустоши с высокой плотностью, вытеснив Z. vivipara с опушек припойменного леса в пойму. Сравнение размещения яще- риц на пробной площади с таковым на других участках показывает, что главной причиной изменений численности и пространственного размещения ящериц в данном случае явля- ются снижение антропогенного пресса на территорию, естественные сукцессионные про- цессы и межвидовая конкуренция. Климатические изменения могли способствовать уве- личению скорости роста численности на вновь заселяемых участках, но триггером рассе- ления как такового не являются.
Tsellarius, A.Yu. & Tsellarius, E.Yu. & Galoyan, E.A. (2018) -
In previous papers we have ascertained the existence of many-year social monogamy in Brauner`s lizard (A-relations). The data presented in this communication show that the territorial male’s aggression against the female, including sexual aggression, manifests itself during, or immediately after, a territorial skirmish between the male and the intruder. During an hour after this assault, an increased frequency of rejections of social contacts with the male remained in the assaulted female. In dyads with stable long-term Arelations, a male’s aggressiveness against his female and the frequency of the female’s rejections from contacts were significantly higher in the periods with the high tension of territorial relations of the male with his neighbors. The formation of A-relations demands frequent male-female amicable contacts throughout more than a year as a rule. Thus, the high tension of territorial relations in a settlement may hamper the formation of social monogamy and the corresponding stable sexual relation.
Целлариус А. Ю. & Целлариус Е. Ю. & Галоян Э. А. (2018) -
Ранее (Целлариус и др. 2016 ) нами было установлено существование у ящерицы Браунера многолетних отно- шений социальной моногамии ( -отношений). Данные, приведенные в настоящей статье, показывают, что агрессия территориального самца в адрес самки, в том числе сексуальная агрессия, проявляются преимущест- венно во время или непосредственно после территориального конфликта самца с вторгшимся на его территорию соседом. В течение часа у самки, подвергшейся агрессии, сохраняется повышенная частота отказов от социаль- ных контактов с самцом. В диаде с устойчивыми многолетними -отношениями, в периоды с высокой напря- женностью территориальных отношений самца с соседями агрессивность самца по отношению к самке и час- тота отказов самки от контактов были достоверно выше, чем в периоды с низкой напряженностью террито- риальных отношений. Формирование -отношений требует регулярных контактов самца с самкой и продол- жается, как правило, более одного года. Таким образом, высокая напряженность территориальных отношений самцов в поселении может препятствовать формированию социальной моногамии и связанной с ней устойчи- вой сексуальной связи.
Tsellarius, E.Y. (2005) -
Tsellarius, E.Y. & Tesellarius, A.Y. (2001) -
Tsellarius, E.Y. & Tesellarius, A.Y. (2002) -
A group of marked lizards was observed for three years in natural conditions. In every marked individual, the last phalanx was amputated, and its age was determined by the bone layers. All males come to maturity in the 3d year of life independently of their coloration. Different males become green in the 3d, 4t h, 5t h or 6t h year of life. All green males were settled and displayed a territorial behavior. The territorial behavior in brown males was never recorded. The mails, which gained green coloration in the 3d year, had small and regular increment. The males gained green color in the 4`1 year or later had a greater increment in the 1s t eyar of life and small growth in the future. The absence of green coloration does not prevent brown males from aggression of green individuals. The size and quality of home range and the degree of pressure of conspecifics are not related to the brightness of coloration of possessor of home ranges. However, females in encounters with bright-green males take initiative in contacts much more frequently, than in those with light-green ones. In contacts with brown, ales, the initiative of females was never ovserved. In home ranges of bright-green males, the density of females` population was 4 times as high as in home ranges of light-green males.
Tsellarius, E.Y. & Tsellarius, A.Y. (2005) -
Tsellarius, E.Y. & Tsellarius, A.Y. (2008) -
It is discovered that green colour of the back of adult male is determined with the time of exposing to sun. In beech-hornbeam forest (shady habitat), not all the males have green coloration and coloration of a male is an unambiguous sign of his territorial status. Coloration is one of the main communicative signals, which regulate lizards behaviour during both male-female and male-male interactions. The result of this regulation is the stable long-term system of interrelations, which provides: a) different access to habitat resources and mate in the males of different statuses; b) free mate choice in females; c) reduction of frequency and intensity of aggressive confl icts between the members of society. In oak forest (sunlight habitat), all adult males have green coloration which has only one meaning — it serves for identifi cation of conspecifi c sex. An access of males of different status to resources and mate is weakly differentiated and in great extent depends on a chance. Frequency and intensity of aggressive confl icts are great. These interactions are very important for formation of social structure there.
Целлариус Е.Ю. & Целлариус А.Ю. (2008) -
Tseng, S.P. & Li, S.H. Hsieh, C.H. & Wang, H.Y. & Lin, S.M. (2014) -
Dating the time of divergence and understanding speciation processes are central to the study of the evolutionary history of organisms but are notoriously difficult. The difficulty is largely rooted in variations in the ancestral population size or in the genealogy variation across loci. To depict the speciation processes and divergence histories of three monophyletic Takydromus species endemic to Taiwan, we sequenced 20 nuclear loci and combined with one mitochondrial locus published in GenBank. They were analyzed by a multispecies coalescent approach within a Bayesian framework. Divergence dating based on the gene tree approach showed high variation among loci, and the divergence was estimated at an earlier date than when derived by the species tree approach. To test whether variations in the ancestral population size accounted for the majority of this variation, we conducted computer inferences using isolation-with-migration (IM) and approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) frameworks. The results revealed that gene flow during the early stage of speciation was strongly favored over the isolation model, and the initiation of the speciation process was far earlier than the dates estimated by gene- and species-based divergence dating. Due to their limited dispersal ability, it is suggested that geographic isolation may have played a major role in the divergence of these Takydromus species. Nevertheless, the current study reveals a more complex situation and demonstrates that gene flow during the speciation process cannot be overlooked and may have a great impact on divergence dating. By using multilocus data and incorporating Bayesian coalescence approaches, we provide a more biologically realistic framework for delineating the divergence history of Takydromus.
Tseng, W.-H. & Lin, J.-W. & Lou, C.-H. & Lee, K.-H. & Wu, L.-S. & Wang, T.-Y. & Wang, F.-Y. & Irschick, D.J. & Lin, S.-M. (2018) -
Expression of nuptial color is usually energetically costly, and is therefore regarded as an ‘honest signal’ to reflect mate quality. In order to choose a mate with high quality, both sexes may benefit from the ability to precisely evaluate their mates through optimizing visual systems which is in turn partially regulated by opsin gene modification. However, how terrestrial vertebrates regulate their color vision sensitivity is poorly studied. The green-spotted grass lizard Takydromus viridipunctatus is a sexually dimorphic lizard in which males exhibit prominent green lateral colors in the breeding season. In order to clarify relationships among male coloration, female preference, and chromatic visual sensitivity, we conducted testosterone manipulation with mate choice experiments, and evaluated the change of opsin gene expression from different testosterone treatments and different seasons. The results indicated that males with testosterone supplementation showed a significant increase in nuptial color coverage, and were preferred by females in mate choice experiments. By using quantitative PCR (qPCR), we also found that higher levels of testosterone may lead to an increase in rhodopsin-like 2 (rh2) and a decrease in long-wavelength sensitive (lws) gene expression in males, a pattern which was also observed in wild males undergoing maturation as they approached the breeding season. In contrast, females showed the opposite pattern, with increased lws and decreased rh2 expression in the breeding season. We suggest this alteration may facilitate the ability of male lizards to more effectively evaluate color cues, and also may provide females with the ability to more effectively evaluate the brightness of potential mates. Our findings suggest that both sexes of this chromatically dimorphic lizard regulate their opsin expression seasonally, which might play an important role in the evolution of nuptial coloration.
Tubbs, P.K. (1987) -
Tuck Jr., R.G. (1971) -
Tuck, R.G. (1979) -
One species of amphibian, the green toad (Bufo viridis oblongus), and 20 species of reptiles, Comprising the Afghan tortoise (Agricnemys horsfieldi), 4 agamid lizards (Agama agilis, A. n. nupta (?), Phrynocephalus mystaceus galli, Ph. scutellatus), 4 gekkonid lizards (Agamura persica, Cyrtodactylus caspius, Teratoscincus bedriagai , T. scincus) , 4 lacertid lizards (Eremias fasciata (?), E. persica, E. v. velox, Meislina guttulata watsonana) , 1 varanid lizard (Varanus griseus caspius), 1 boiid snake (Eryx tataricus), 4 colubrid snakes (Coluber karelini , C. rhodorhachis ladacensis, Psammophis lineolatus, Spalerosophis diadema schiraziana) , and a single viperid snake (Pseudocerastes p. persicus), are documented from the Turan Biosphere Reserve. Collecting data, ecological information, measurements, and relevant observations are given for those forms within the Reserve, and a tentative zoogeographic analysis of the Turan herpetofauna is attempted.
Tucker, B.J. (1998) -
Tudor, M. & Cozma, A. (2011) -
The isolated populations of common wall lizard Podarcis muralis from Dobrogea are strictly located in a few rocky habitats situated in the southern area of this geographical province. The sizes of these populations are small, compared to the populations from the rest of the area occupied by the species. This aspect, together with their strict location, makes them suitable for complex population studies. The work hypothesis was that the common wall lizard populations in Dobrogea are not connected to those from the Carpathians, the Danube and the Romanian Plain being bio-geographical barriers. In light of this hypothesis, the colonization of Dobrogea by the common wall lizard occurred from the south with individuals coming from populations located in the Balkan Peninsula.
Tunc, M.R. & Yavuz, M. (2016) -
In this study the terrestrial Herpetological fauna of the Ancient City of Phaselis and in its Territorium were evaluated. Also in this study the general properties of some of the species observed in the field are given together with a photograph. In consequence of the field studies conducted during 2014‐2015: 36 species of amphibians and reptiles were identified. Considering the conservation status of these species; the IUCN status for the herpetofauna: 1 species located in category CR, 1 species located in category EN, 3 species located in category NT, 1 species located in category VU, 29 located in category LC and 1 species is in an undefined category, the Bern Convention status for the herptils: 25 species located in Appendix II (Strictly Protected Fauna Species) category, 9 Species located in Appendix III (Protected Fauna Species) category. The current situation recorded during the course of this study, the number of the species and some features of the fauna, will vary through the wider range of future studies examining the fauna and their environmental situation.
Tuniyev, B. (1990) -
Tuniyev, B. & Ananjeva, N. & Agasyan, A. & Orlov, N. & Tuniyev, S. (2009) -
Tuniyev, B. & Ananjeva, N. & Agasyan, A. & Orlov, N. & Tuniyev, S. & Anderson, S.C. (2008) -
Tuniyev, B. & Ananjeva, N. & Agasyan, A. & Orlov, N. & Tuniyev, S. & Anderson, S.C. (2009) -
Tuniyev, B. & Atayev, C. & Shammakov, S. (1998) -
First report on herpetofauna of Turkmenian Eastern Kopet Dag is present.
Tuniyev, B. & Dusej, G. & Flärdh, B. (1999) -
This article gives a complete overview about the reptiles of western Turkmenistan and their zoogeographical relation. The data were obtained by several expeditions during the last years and completed by compilation of the specific herpetological literature about this area. Ten general landscape units are described along a profile from the Central Karakum desert throughout the Malyi Balkhan chains, the Kyurendag Corridor, the Western Kopetdagh to the state border of Iran. The mountain and plain reptile fauna is analyzed. After discussing the faunal element composition of various landscapes, the Western Kopetdagh was included into the South-West Asian province while the Turanian plain and the Malyi Balkhan were included into the Turanian province of the Palearctic.
Tuniyev, B.S. (1995) -
The Caucasian Isthmus has common origin within the areas of Ancient Mediterranean and it inherited the united type of mountain belts with Mediterranean mountain systems. On the basing of paleo-areas and recent chorology of Caucasian amphibians and reptiles the analysis was given, including the historical changing of the main characteristic of Mediterranean species-complex, its composition and connection with corresponding phyto-landscapes. The recent refugia of Mediterranean species in the Caucasus are described and made conjecture about stages of colonization the Caucasian Isthmus by these species. The possible ways of preservation of these refugia till now are discussed.
Tuniyev, B.S. & Doronin, I.V. (2021) -
Tuniyev, B.S. & Doronin, I.V. (2022) -
Tuniyev, B.S. & Hunanian. Y.S. (1986) -
The species composition and daily activity of herpetofauna of Khosrov Reserve, where 21 species are noted, have been discussed. According to the character of dally activity three groups of reptiles have been separated: I — species, which are active in course of hot period of the day (Iranian group), 11—species with double-peak activity in the morning and in the evening (Mediterranean group). III -species, which are active In the evening (Autochthonal group). Analysis of dalily activity has shown that within the borders of general time and temperature are included species, characterised by the community of geographical origin and development.
Tuniyev, B.S. & Koval, A.G. & Vargovitsh, R.S. (2021) -
The present study is the first review of the recent herpetofauna of the Greater Caucasian caves. Also, it is worth noting some phossylous material on amphibians and reptiles (mainly Pleistocene remains) from the caves in this area. The goal of the study is to fill knowledge gaps and to present long-term data on the cave herpetofauna of the Greater Caucasus. In 1992–2019, amphibians and reptiles were found in 61 Greater Caucasian caves located in an altitude range from 55 m a.s.l. to 1300 m a.s.l. in Russia, Abkhazia, and Georgia. A total of 272 specimens representing ten species have been found. The most frequently observed species were Rana macrocnemis (39.0% of all recorded specimens), Pelodytes caucasicus (17.3%), Bufo verrucosissimus (11.0%), Darevskia brauneri (8.8%), Hyla orientalis (8.1%). The total proportion of the remaining five species (Ommatotriton ophryticus, Hyla savignyi, Pelophylax ridibundus, Anguis colchica, and Darevskia derjugini) was 15.8%. As a rule, representatives of the herpetofauna in the Greater Caucasian caves are quite rare and only single or few individuals are usually found. Exceptions were Fyodorovskaya Cave (Black Sea Region near the city of Sochi), Akshasha Cave, Abshdza Cave and Marshania Verkhnyaya Cave (last three in Abkhazia) where 141 specimens of amphibians and reptiles were observed, i.e. more than half (51.8%) of the totally recorded specimens. They belong to eight species (80.0% of all species found). The caves of the Greater Caucasus foothills, where the vast majority of amphibians and reptiles were observed, are usually characterised by a rich faunal diversity of invertebrate animals – their potential food. Amphibians were recorded from both twilight and deep parts of the caves, whereas lizards were found mainly close to the entrances, where the light penetrates and a relatively high air temperature is observed in the warm period of the year. Probably, some of the Greater Caucasian amphibians and reptiles enter the caves purposefully for wintering, and/or for feeding. The other animals occur accidentally in the caves (especially on the bottom of vertical pits), becoming «prisoners of circumstances». Judging by the length of time spent in the caves and, as a consequence, the change in body pigmentation (lighting of the main colouration tone) and good external condition of many individuals, these amphibians can be considered subtroglophiles. Rana macrocnemis, capable of laying eggs in caves, shows a tendency for eutroglophily.
Tuniyev, B.S. & Kukushkin, O.V. (2021) -
Б.С. Туниев, О.В. Кукушкин. (2021) -
Tuniyev, B.S. & Petrova, T.V. (2019) -
A new species of rock lizards of the genus Darevskia ARRIBAS, 1997 – Darevskia aghasyani sp. nov. is described from Urts Ridge in Southern Armenia. This species is characterized by a combination of the following characters: small size L – 49–54 mm, L. cd – 107, Sq – 52–56, Ventr – 26–27, G – 24, P. g. – 32–34, P. fm. – 18–20; it is painted in brownish-beige tones from above; the belly is whitish in both sexes, males in the anal area have yellow with ochre femoral pores; bluish spots appear on the edge of the outer ventral shields at the middle of trunk through one shield; on the sides of the trunk (chest area) there are two blue spots in males and one in females; rostral is separated from frontonasal by nasal shields and it does not touch the nostril; upper postocular is twice wider than upper temporal shield; posterior temporal shields are not pronounced, or slightly pronounced; in front of central temporal (Massetericum), there is one enlarged temporal shield; along the throat from ear to ear fold there are 32–34 scales; two large preanal shields present in front of the anal shield. A comparison of Darevskia aghasyani sp. nov. with other species of the genus from Armenia and representatives of “raddei” complex from neighboring regions of Turkey and Iran (Darevskia dahli (DAREVSKY, 1957), D. unisexualis (DAREVSKY, 1966), D. raddei (BOETTGER, 1892), D. raddei vanensis (EISELT et al., 1993), D. nairensis (DAREVSKY, 1967), and D. defilippii (CAMERANO, 1877)) is given. Conservation status of taxa assessed as CR B2ac(iv) “CRITICALLY ENDANGERED”.
Туниев, Б.C. & Петрова, Т.В. (2019) -
Описывается новый вид скальной ящерицы рода Darevskia Arribas, 1997 с Урцского хребта в Южной Армении – Darevskia aghasyani sp. nov. Мелких размеров ящерица, характеризующаяся следующими признаками: L – 49–54 мм, L. cd – 107, Sq – 5256, Ventr – 26–27, G – 24, P. g. – 32–34, P. fm. – 18–20; свер ху окрашена в коричневатобежевые тона. Брюхо у представителей обоих полов беловатое; у самцов в анальной области – желтое, с охристыми бедренными порами; голубоватые пятна проступают на краевых брюшных щитках середины туловища через один щиток; по бокам туловища в грудной области у самцов по 2, у самок по 1 голубому пятну; межчелюстной щиток отделен от лобоносового носовыми щитками, не касается ноздри; верхний заглазничный щиток в два раза шире верхневисочного; задневисочные щитки не выражены, или слабо выражены; перед центральновисочным слева и справа имеется увеличенный височный щиток; вдоль горловой складки от уха до уха 32–34 чешуйки; перед анальным – 2 увеличенных преанальных. Приведено сравнение Darevskia aghasyani sp. nov. с другими видами рода из Армении и представителями комплекса “raddei” из сопредельных регионов Турции и Ирана (Darevskia dahli (Darevsky, 1957), D. unisexualis (Darevsky, 1966), D. raddei (Boettger, 1892), D. raddei vanensis (Eiselt et al., 1993), D. nairensis (Darevsky, 1967), D. defilippii (Camerano, 1877)). Природоохранный статус таксона оценен нами, как CR B2ac(iv)
Tuniyev, B.S. & Petrova, T.V. & Lotiev, K.Yu. (2023) -
A new species of rock lizards of the genus Darevskia Arribas, 1999 — Darevskia arribasi sp. nov. is described from vicinity of Ertso Lake in South Ossetia. In comparison of Darevskia arribasi sp. nov. with other species of the “saxicola-brauneri” complex [D. lindholmi (Szczerbak, 1962), D. saxicola (Eversmann, 1834), D. brauneri (Mehely, 1909) (including D. b. brauneri, D. b. myusserica Doronin, 2011, D. b. darevskyi (Szczerbak, 1962), and D. szczerbaki (Lukina, 1963)], the new species is characterized by the smallest body size among all representa- tives of this complex Lxx — 55 – 62 mm; }} — 58 – 63 mm. The number of scales around the middle of the body (Sq.) in D. arribasi sp. nov. (52 – 58, more often 54 – 56) also significantly less than for D. saxicola sensu lato in generally. Along the throat from ear to ear fold there are 36 – 42 scales, less than in D. saxicola sensu lato. Two large preanal shields present in front of the anal shield in half of the individuals examined; in a quarter of in- dividuals on both sides of the small central preanal there are by one enlarged lateral preanal shield, in another quarter all preanal shields are of the same size. Central temporal (Massetericum) always developed; always six pair of mandibulars, three in contact; collar straight, extremely rarely slightly serrated; ribs on the caudal scales are expressed to some extent; rostral usually separated from frontonasal by nasal shields. The coloration of adult males is olive-lettuce, or olive-brown from above; adult females are grey-brown; juvenile coloration coffee-brown with the blue and black spots on the edge of the outer ventral shields at the middle of trunk. Taxonomical status of new species is well supported with result of analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome b data.
Tuniyev, B.S. & Shagarov, L.M. & Arribas, O.J. (2020) -
Podarcis siculus (Rafinesque-Schmaltz, 1810) or Italian wall lizard is one of the most invasive reptile-species. Recently, this lacertid lizard has been introduced to Mediterranean areas of southern Europe, South-West Asia (Turkey) and North America (USA). An abundant population of P. siculus was discovered on one of the sites of the Natural Ornithological Park in the Imeretinskaya Lowland, on an area of over 0.22 km2 (Sochi, Russia). The data were collected in the May of 2020. in a strip survey method in the Imeretinskaya Lowland. To identify the colonization area of the invader, we examined all 8 sections of the Natural Ornithological Park in the Imeretinskaya Lowland and adjacent urbanized areas. More than 150 animals were observed. These Italian wall lizards, undoubtedly, belong to the northern-central Italian morphotype (presumably P. s. campestris). This is the first record of this species in the former USSR area and, also, this is the species’ north-easternmost locality. The population inhabits secondary natural biotopes and urban area. Among them are the banks of artificial water bodies, areas with cultivated trees and shrubs, as well as parks, and house lawns in the urban area. Population density was estimated from eight to 40 specimens per 100 m of the transect. A moderate proportion of young specimens (more than a 40%) would indicate a healthy and continued growth of the emerging population. To determine the possible period of the species introduction, space images of the Imeretinskaya Lowland were analyzed beginning from the transformation of its landscape for the Winter Olympic Games of Sochi 2014 until the May of 2020. The introduction of the species presumably occurred with the delivery of large-sized ornamental trees and shrubs from Italy in 2012–2013. Podarcis siculus should be included in the list of herpetofauna of Russia and particularly of the Caucasus. This is an alien species with a proven ability to become an invasive species, what will lead to a greater undesirable and unavoidable contact with native small lizards of the genus Darevskia Arribas, 1997. On the other hand, as it is often observed with new invaders, a sudden rise in population abundance could be followed by a sharp decline. A continuous monitoring of the area in question and of the number of local Italian wall lizards is necessary to confirm or refute the assumed scenarios of further invasion of P. siculus on the Black Sea Coast of the Caucasus. Further action plans for this population should be developed depending on supposed future trends.
Tuniyev, B.S. & Shagarov, L.M. & Olkhovsky, D.A. (2023) -
For the first time, a record of Italian Wall Lizard Podarcis siculus (Rafinesque-Schmaltz, 1810) in Krasnodar is noted. The origin of this lizard, presumably, is associated with the importation of large-sized planting material. In addition, for the first time, reproduction of Red-eared Slider, Trachemys scripta elegans (Wied-Neuwied, 1839), in the nature was revealed near Sochi; the data from the moment of oviposition to the emergence of newborns from nesting chambers were collected. The size and color characteristics of T. scripta found in Sochi are described. Active resettlement allowed T. scripta to occupy the entire Imeretinskaya Lowland and the valley of the lower reaches of the Psou River. Monitoring of Podarcis siculus in the environs of Sochi indicates an increase in the range by almost eight times, with a modern habitat area of 200.6 ha. The high population density and a large number of young individuals clearly show the transition of the species from alien to invasive status. A new find in November 2021 of Mediterranean House Gecko, Hemidactylus turcicus (Linnaeus, 1758) indicates the strengthening of this exotic animal in the resort and a slight expansion of the range, about 1 km east of the initial record in Sochi. All of the listed species are, to varying degrees, synanthropic, what also contributes to their active distribution in the region.
Tuniyev, B.S. & Tuniyev, S.B. (2012) -
The distribution ranges of Darevskia brauneri and D. szczerbaki are discussed. It is noted the independent speciation of stenotop hemixerophylous maritime-rocks species — Darevskia szczerbaki in the conditions of Black Sea refugia of the East-Mediterranean Province and mezophylous arboreal-rocks and ground dwellers forms of D. b. brauneri and D. b. darevskii in broadleaf mezophyl forests of Western Caucasus.
Tuniyev, B.S. & Tuniyev, S.B. & Avcı, A. & Ilgaz, Ç. (2014) -
The results of five expeditions (1995, 1996, 2007, 2011, and 2012) to the north-eastern and eastern Turkey are presented. These data were collected from the Pontic (Lazistan) Ridge, Choroch River basin, and the upper flow basins of the Aras River, Kura River, Euphrates River, Tiger River, Dogankent (Kharshit) River, and the Van Lake basin. In total, 2 Caudata, 6 Anura, 2 Testudines (3 subspecies), 25 Sauria (30 subspecies) and 21 Serpentes species were found.
Туниев Б.С., Туниев С.Б., Авджи А., Ильгаз Ч. (2014) -
Tuniyev, S.B. & Doronin, I.A. & Kidov, A.A. & Tuniyev, B.S. (2011) -
The compicated history of the intraspecific taxonomy of meadow lizard, Darevskia praticola sensu lato is considered and the species’ geographical variability in Caucasian Isthmus is analyzed. It was confirmed the species status of Darevskia praticola sensu stricto and Darevskia pontica. Lectotype of Darevskia pontica was assigned and de- scribed; the known paralectotypes of D. pontica are noted. Description of the new subspecies Darevskia praticola hyrcanica ssp. nov. is given from the Talysh foothills and Elbrus range (Azerbaijan, Iran). The possible patters of speciation and distribution of closely related species Darevskia praticola sensu stricto and Darevskia pontica within the Caucasus and the Balkans are discussed.
Tuniyev, S.B. & Doronin, I.V. & Tuniyev, B.S. & Aghasyan, A.L. & Kidov, A.A. & Aghasyan, L.A. (2013) -
Geographical variability of Darevskia praticola in the Caucasian Isthmus is analyzed. Description of the new subspecies Darevskia praticola loriensis ssp. nov. is given from the Lori Province of Northern Armenia. Possible ways of speciation and radiation of subspecies of Darevskia praticola within the North Caucasus and Transcaucasia are discussed.
Tuniyev, S.B. & Ostrovskikh, S.V. (2006) -
Distribution patterns and geographical variations of Darevskia derjugini (Nikolsky, 1898) are discussed. D. derjugini has been found to have a continuous habitat within the Russian Federation and Abkhazia and a clinal variation of its morphological charac-teristics. Specimens from the more ancient southern foothill populations have much more pholidosis characters than lizards from the northern and high-mountain popula-tions formed after the Glacier period (Pleistocene). On the basis of our data D. derjugini should be considered as a monotypic species with the subspecies D. d. silvatica, D. d. boehmei and D. d. abchasica being junior synonyms of D. d. derjugini.
Туниев С.Б., Островских С.В. (2006) -
Ящерица артвинская, или Дерюгина (Darevskia derjugini (Nikolsky, 1898)) … узкоареальный эндемик западной части Кавказа, распространенный на юго-востоке Краснодарского края, Черноморском побережье Кавказа, в Западной и Северо-Восточной Грузии и крайнем северо-западе Азербайджана (рис. 1) (Никольский, 1905, 1913, 1915; Даревский, 1967; Орлова, 1978; Ананьева и др., 1998, 2004; Baran, 1977). В Грузии вид отмечен в Колхидской низменности и на обращенных к морю склонах Большого Кавказского хребта на северо-востоке, на склонах Лихского, Месхетского и Шавшетского хребтов на юго-востоке (Негмедзянов, Бакрадзе, 1973). На Малом Кавказе он обитает в долине р. Куры в окрестностях г. Тбилиси, на Сурамском, Триалетском и Аджаро-Имеретинском хребтах (Орлова, 1978). За пределами Кавказа вид встречается на крайнем северо-востоке Турции, где отмечен в окр. городов Арсина, Борчхи, Ардагана (Clark R., Clark E., 1973) и в Артвине (Нестеров, 1911). Исследования последних лет показали, что произошло сокращение кружева ареала артвинской ящерицы в России не менее чем на 200000 га (Туниев Б., 2003; Туниев С., 2004).
Tuniyev, S.B. & Tuniyev, B.S. (2008) -
Intraspecific variation of sand lizard in the Western Caucasus is discussed with description of a new high-mountain subspecies Lacerta agilis mzymtensis ssp. nov. from upper basing of Mzymta River (vicinity of Sochi, Russia).
Tur, C.A. (2022) -
Tur, C.A. (2024) -
Tur, J. (1903) -
Tur, J. (1912) -
Tur, J. (1913) -
Tur, J. (1925) -
Turbanov, I.S. & Kukushkin, O.V. & Vargovitsh, R.S. (2019) -
The current paper summarizes old and recent herptiles records in the karst cavities of the Crimean Mountains, highlighting also the means of entry of poikilothermic vertebrates into the karst. It was found that the underground habitats are on purpose utilized by some amphibians and reptiles, characterized by mostly crepuscular and/or night activity as well as by the pronounced ability to move on the vertical surfaces and, in many cases, by the synanthropization tendency. One of the prerequisites for the animals’ entry to the karst might be their habitat’s conditions such as arid climate, absence of the forest, harsh winters at the upper distribution limit.
Turgut, M. & Kaplan, S. & Metin, K. & Koca, Y. B. & Soylu, E. & Şahin, B. & Ateşlier, Z.B.B. & Başaloğlu, H.K. (2006) -
A better understanding of regenerative growth is very important for the development of new potential strategies. Recently, the pineal secretory product melatonin was shown to stimulate the regeneration process. In this study, we carried out an experimental investigation of tail regeneration in young adult lizards, Ophisops elegans macrodactylus Berthold, 1842, addressing the role of melatonin on the regeneration process. Lizards were divided into three groups: constant light-exposed control group (n = 13), constant dark-exposed group (n = 15) and parachlorophenylalanine (p-CPA) treatment group exposed to constant light (n = 15). Using a tail autotomy procedure, the effects of p-CPA treatment on connective tissue together with neural tissue and vascular tissue in regenerating tail in lizards were investigated. p-CPA (400 μg/kg body mass) was injected from day 0 to 30 days after autotomy. p-CPA treatment produced a significant increase in the length of the regenerated tail compared with light-exposed control and dark-exposed lizards. Total collagen content was found to be higher in p-CPA-treated animals in comparison with other groups. Histologically, a higher percentage of connective tissue and vascular tissue and a lower percentage of neural tissue were found in the regenerated tails of the p-CPA-treated lizards. Importantly, the percentage of neural tissue in lizards in the dark-exposed animals was higher than that in animals of both light-exposed and p-CPA treatment groups. Thus, it is clear that p-CPA has a stimulatory influence on fibroblast collagen production and vascularization of the regenerated tail in the lizards. Furthermore, it seems that the neural regeneration process was markedly enhanced in lizards exposed to continuous darkness. Based on the results of our study, it is suggested that melatonin may be an active factor that speeds up the rate of tail regeneration in lacertilians.
Turillazzi, S. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Titone, V. (2015) -
La lucertola campeste, P. siculus, costituisce un endemismo zoogeografico italiano; è caratterizzata da un` elevata variabilità morfologica e di colorazione. Rapprensenta un ottimo modello di studio per le dinamiche evolutive e la selezione naturale; nelle popolazioni insulari infatti si registrano cambiamenti morfologici in tempi evolutivi brevi (allocromatismo, dieta erbivora, valvole ciecali, riduzione autotomia). Dal punto di vista fenotipico è stata descritta sommariamente e non relativamente a fenomeni ascrivibili a polimorfismo cromatico o policromatismo, noto in altri Lacertidae. Solo in ambito congressuale, sono emerse indicazioni sulla forte variabilità morfologica e cromatica del ventre, della gola e del collo, relativi a popolazioni della costa della Toscana settentrionale (area di studio oggetto di questa tesi). È stata quindi fatta l`ipotesi che Podarcis siculus campestris sia una sottospecie caratterizzata da polimorfismo cromatico o che costituisca un esempio di policromatismo, espresso a livello di mandibole, mascelle e gola. È stato verificato che la presenza di morfi diversi (bianco, verde, verde-giallo, verde-arancione, verdeazzurro e verde-bianco) è costante nelle popolazioni, con un` occorrenza maggiore del valore di riferimento del 2% (definizione di polimorfismo). Sono state analizzate le differenze biometriche tra popolazioni, inter e intra sessuali, ed è stato valutato se individui con morfi diversi esprimessero comportamenti differenti, in contesti agonistici, allestendo combattimenti tra maschi di P. siculus. Sono state effettuate analisi preliminari della composizione del secreto dei pori femorali di maschi di colorazione diversa a supporto dell`ipotesi iniziale; che hanno permesso di evidenziare la presenza di almeno tre diverse proteine. Dai risultati si evince che P. siculus è caratterizzata o da polimorfismo / policromatismo, variabile (incipiente o in fase di decremento) nelle aree geografiche in cui entra in competizione con specie non polimorfiche (P. muralis in alcune aree); oppure potrebbe essere completamente polimorfica nelle zone in cui compete con altre specie caratterizzate da marcato polimorfismo cromatico (P. meliselleninsis). Il colore inoltre non è influenzato dalla taglia/età, in entrambi i sessi. È emerso che l`esito del combattimento è influenzato in modo significativo dallo stato di residenza, mentre il colore non ha alcun effetto. Da analisi relative alla morfologia e al dimorfismo sessuale si evince che i maschi hanno lunghezza e peso corporeo maggiori rispetto alla femmine in tutte le località oggetto dei campionamenti e che sussistono differenze morfologiche statisticamente significative, tra le diverse località. Ulteriori indagini sarebbero utili per comprendere in modo più approfondito la frequenza dei diversi morfi all`interno delle popolazioni, le differenze tra queste e se P. siculus sia caratterizzata da polimorfismo cromatico e chimico oppure da policromatismo.
Turitina, L.V. (1977) -
Turk, N. (1997) -
Türkoğlu, P. (2023) -
The Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) originated throughout Italian mainland and later introduced to some other countries including Turkey. New localities were recorded from Bolu province and from Balıkesir province as southernmost records for Podarcis siculus known to date in Turkey. The specimen in Bolu province was photographed directly by the author, while the other specimen’s observation in Balıkesir was taken from the iNaturalist database. These two new records significantly extend the distribution area of the species in Turkey southwards. It is presumed that the Filyos River surroundings are suitable for the distribution of the species. The distribution of Podarcis siculus is significantly wider than currently known.
In this brief paper, we give some photographs and observations on the slug hunting of Podarcis siculus (RAFINESQUE-SCHMALTZ, 1810), a member of the Lacertidae, from Zonguldak, a province in western Turkey near the Black Sea.
Turner, A.A. (2009) -
Turner, A.A. (2010) -
Turner, A.A. (2014) -
Turner, A.A. (2017) -
Turner, A.A. & Villiers, A.L. de & Baards, E.H.W. (2007) -
Turrisi, F. (1989) -
Turrisi, F. (1990) -
Turrisi, G.F. (1996) -
Turrisi, G.F. & Vaccaro, A. (2001) -
Turrisi, G.F. & Vaccaro, A. (2003) -
Türüt, S. & Yildirim Caynak, E. & Candan, K. & Kumlutas, Y. (2022) -
Lizards comprise 7176 described species all over the world. Of these, 362 species belong to the family Lacertidae. Herein, the cranial skeletal differences and similarities of Anatololacerta anatolica (Werner, 1900) and Anatololacerta pelasgiana (Mertens 1959) species, which are distributed in the south and north of the Büyük Menderes River in Turkey and are included in the family Lacertidae, were investigated. Osteological characters are important for biological information. In the crrent study, the cranial osteology of A. anatolica and A. pelasgiana are described based on cleared and double-stained specimens. We used 15 museum samples, which stored in the Fauna Flora Research and Applied Centre (Dokuz Eylül University), for each species in the current study. Our result suggests that at least the skull roof, nasal and palatal regions of skull of A. anatolica can be distinguished from those of specimens of A. pelasgiana. These differences are caused by the nasal process of the premaxilla, the posterior process of the nasal, the junction of the anterolateral and anteromedial process of the frontal, the posterolateral margin of the frontal and the numbers of teeth that are on the premaxilla, maxilla, dentary, and pterygoid bones. Despite the large number of lacertid lizards, information about the detailed descriptions of their cranial osteology is scarce. In this study, comparative detailed cranial osteology of these two allopatric species separated by the Büyük Menderes River as a geographic barrier was performed. In this way, it is aimed to provide important data for future comparative morphological studies.
Tvrtković, N. (1984) -
Tvrtković, N. (1994) -
Tvrtković, N. & Kletečki, E. (1993) -
Tvrtković, N. & Kletečki, E. (1998) -
Tvrtkovic, N. & Lazar, B. & Tome, S. & Grbac, I. (1998) -
Through a review of egg incubation times and the colour patterns of hatchlings of green lizards from the left side of the So~a (Isonzo) River, and the island of Cres, it has been found that they belong to a recently established species, Lacerta (viridis) bilineata Daudin 1802. It is from now on a member of the list of the herpetofauna of Slovenia and Croatia. At the same time L. viridis (Laurenti 1768) has been confirmed on the sand dunes around ur|evac (Croatia). On the basis of the known distribution of green lizards and types of habitat in the case of the finds to date, the possible contact areas between the two taxa are considered.
Tvrtković, N. & Veen, P. (2006) -
Twelbeck, R. (2011) -
Tybjerg, C. & Brandt, A. (2000) -
Die Autoren fanden in Jütland eine juvenile Waldeidechse (Gesamtlänge 70 mm) in einem Spinnennetz der Kreuzspinne Araneus diadematus. Die noch lebende Eidechse hing kopfunter in einem Wacholderbusch etwa 20 cm über dem Boden. Die Beine waren eng an den Körper geschnürt, so dass die Eidechse wehrlos war. Die Spinne (13 mm Cephalothorax bis Hinterleibsspitze0) saß auf dem Bauch der Eidechse und injizierte ihr Venom. Einige Minuten später war die Eidechse tot. Die Beobachtung erfolgte an einem kühlen Morgen. Die Autorten vermuten, dass die Eidechse zum Sonnen auf den Busch kletterte und sich bei einer Fluchtreaktion im Netz verfing. Bei der Untersuchung im Labor zeigten sich mehrere Marken, die auf das Injizieren des Venoms zurück zu führen waren. Es wird auf eine deutsche Beobachtung der Prädation einer jungen Zauneidechse durch eine Spinne hingewiesen.
Tytov, O.A. & Peskov, V.N. & Brovko, A.U. (2005) -
Tzankov, A. (2011) -
Tzankov, N. (2011) -
Tzankov, N. & Naumov, B. & Grozdanov, A. & Peshev, D. & Vasilev, A. (2009) -
We are present a brief review of the herpetofauna of the northeastern part of the Black sea coast. A total twenty seven species was recorded. Of which two newt species (Lissotriton vulgaris, Triturus karelinii), nine species of tailless amphibians (Bombina bombina, Pelobates fuscus, P. syriacus, Bufo bufo, Epidalea viridis, Hyla arborea, Rana dalmatina, Pelophylax ridibundus, P. esculentus), ten species of lizards (Mediodactylus kotschyi, Angius fragilis, Pseudopus apodus, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Lacerta agilis, L. trilineata, L. viridis, Podarcis muralis, P. tauricus) and seven species of snakes (Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Dolichophis caspius, Elaphe sauromates, Zamenis longissimus, Coronella austriaca, Vipera ammodytes). Their conservation status was stated and their presence in the protected areas in the study area was analyzed. A map of the herpetologically important areas was draw.
Tzankov, N.D. (2007) -
The common wall lizard Podarcis muralis is a small-sized lacertid largely distributed throughout middle and southern Europe including nearly almost all the territory of Bulgaria. In despite of here wide distribution in this country there is no information about the intraspecific morphological variation of this species. Former recognised subspecies from this region do not give an explanation of the observed morphological polymorphism. In order to draw a preliminary picture of the morphological variability, 27 morphological characters (13 meristic and 14 morphometric, later transformed into 13 indices) were analysed in 416 preserved specimens. Univariate (ANOVA) and multivariate (PCA and DFA) analyses were used to describe the geographic variability. Specimens were grouped according to their geographical locations, later reduced to 4 main groups. Results from both uni- and multivariate statistics suggest strong morphological differentiation among them, well expressed in males. Only specimens from group 1 are attributed to the nominal subspecies. They are distributed in central, northern and north-western Bulgaria. Those from group 2 inhabit southern Bulgaria. Group 3 inhabit north-eastern and group 4 south-eastern part of the country. Morphotype 1 meets in a contact zone with morphotypes 2 in south-western and south-central and with morphotype 3 in northeastern Bulgaria. After the present results we may conclude that four morphotypes occur in the country. To clarify the relationships among them future genetic analysis should be carried out.
Tzankov, N.D. & Popgeorgiev, G.S. & Naumov, B.Y. & Stoyanov, A.Y. & Kornilev, Y.V. & Petrov, B.P. & Dyugmedzhiev, A.V. & Vergilov, V.S. & Draganova, R.D. & Lukanov, S.P. & Westerström, A.E. (2012) -
Tzankov, N.D. & Popgeorgiev, G.S. & Naumov, B.Y. & Stoyanov, A.Y. & Kornilev, Y.V. & Petrov, B.P. & Dyugmedzhiev, A.V. & Vergilov, V.S. & Draganova, R.D. & Lukanov, S.P. & Westerström, A.E. (2014) -
Tzellarius, A.Y. (1977) -
Tzoras, E. (2019) -
Podarcis species are well known for their polymorphism and in some cases a concolor morphs hads been observed in many species. This note presents a concolor morph of the endemic P. peloponnesiacus from the Peloponnese Peninsula in Lake Doxa, Corinthia, Greece.
Uchelen, E. van (1982) -
Ucüncu, S. & Tosunoglu, M. & Isisag, S. (2004) -
Blood-serum proteins of the Anatolian populations of Lacerta trilineata, L. media and L. pamphylica were studied comparatively by polyacrylamide disc electrophoresis. In order to obtain useful biochemical data for classification, differences between the electrophoreograms of the samples collected from dif- ferent regions were distinguished qualitatively and quantitatively. These com- parisons indicate that the Anatolian populations of L. trilineata should be subdivided into three species.
Ugarte-Zabaleta, I. & Novoa, I. & Alkorta, E. & Izagirre, A. & Montes, A. & Sanz-Azkue, I. (2018) -
The first four individuals of Timon Lepidus (Daudin, 1802) have been observed in the province of Gipuzkoa where this species had not been recorded previously.
Ugurtas, I.H. & Ozyigit, M.O. & Akkoc, A. & Dorrestein, G.M. & Akkaya, A. (2008) -
In this case, a green lizard (Lacerta viridis LAURENTI 1768) caught in Uludag, Bursa, north-western Turkey, was diagnosed as reovirus by electron microscopy. In the macroscopical examination, wart-like growths were seen on the dorsum of the animal on the skin between the forearms and on the back close to the pelvic region. In the microscopical examination of hematoxylin and eosin stained sections, hyperkeratosis, ballooning degeneration and eosinophilic inclusions in the cytoplasm were observed. There was no positive reaction for papillomavirus in immunohistochemistry. Electron microscopic study of these growths revealed the presence of viral particles belonging, from the morphological aspect, to the family Reoviridae.
Ugurtas, I.H. & Yildirhan, H.S. (2000) -
In this study, Herpetofauna of the eastern region of t he Amanos mountains in Turkey was investigated. A total of 319 samples were collected and 27 species from 17 amphibian and reptile families were described. Two of these species are urodeles, three are anurans, two are turtles, eleven are lizards and eight are snakes.
Ugurtas, I.H. & Yildirimhan, H.S. (2000) -
In this study, we describe 13 Lacerta sicula hieroglyphica collected from the centre of Bursa and Çak›rca, a village about 10 km west of Iznik. The specimens, including their habitat characteristics and distribution, are described. This subspecies is known to live on islands in the Marmara Sea and in Istanbul. This is the first report of L. s. hieroglyphica from Bursa and Çak›rca village and therefore its distributional range is being extended to the south of the Marmara Sea.
Uhrin, M. (2018) -
Records on Podarcis muralis and Zootoca vivipara from Slovakia found in documentary patrimony of Ján Gulicka -- Ján Gulicka (1925–2009) was an important Slovak specialist on myriapods and cave and soil fauna with marginal interest on some vertebrate taxa (amphibians, reptiles, bats and some carnivores). I present here records on Podarcis muralis and Zootoca vivipara found in his written patrimony.
Uiterdijk, G. (1944) -
Uiterdijk, G. (1951) -
Ulfstrand, S. (1961) -
Uliano, R. & Ricchiari, L. & Prisco, M. & Andreuccetti, P. (2002) -
The investigation performed in two squamate reptiles, Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis, demonstrates that the differentiation of pyriform cells, which are connected to the oocyte by an intercellular bridge, is characterized by the progressive appearance on the cell surface of specific glycoproteins. Using a lectin panel we demonstrated that, during previtellogenesis, the pattern of distribution of a-N-GalNAc containing glycoproteins significantly changes and that these modifications are probably related to the differentiation of pyriforms, that starts from small stem cells via intermediate cells.
Ullenbruch, K. & Grell, O. & Böhme, W. (2010) -
We report on a collection of reptiles made in southern Benin, mostly in the vicinity of Lama Forest, a relict rain forest surrounded by savannah habitats within the the so-called Dahomey gap. 48 species (3 chelonian, 20 saurian and 25 ophidian species were encountered) are listed with the respective voucher material and commented in respect to taxonomic or ecological information. Five lizard species (Agamasylvanus, Hemidactylusansorgei, H. lamaensisn. sp., Holaspisguentheri, Varanusornatus) and two snake species (Natriciteresvariegata, Amblyodipsasunicolur) are new for the fauna of Benin, the second Hemidactylusspecies being even new to science. Some other species are reported from Benin for only the second time. This commented list of species collected from southern Benin is followed by a general country-wide checklist, which is based on literature data and also some unpublished records from northern Benin, among them the remarkable rediscovery of Agamagracilimembris, 9 decades after its original description from this country.
Uller, T. (2016) -
Geographic patterns of genetic and phenotypic variation demonstrate that hybridization is common in animals. But rarely do we understand how those patterns come about. Our work on common wall lizards addresses this in detail, connecting individual behavior to evolutionary processes. In this talk, I will focus on (i) how phenotypic divergence in allopatry shapes individual interactions following secondary contact, (ii) what this means for the patterns of hybridization, and (iii) the implications of hybridization for genetic and phenotypic diversity in native and non-native populations of wall lizards. The results demonstrate an important role for sexual selection and suggest rapid displacement of phenotypes following secondary contact.
Uller, T. (2019) -
Evolutionary biologists aim to understand how novel characters arise an why they spread through populations. Here I will review our ongoing research on the evolution of a striking suite of exaggerated traits – morphology, coloration and behaviour – in common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis). Genomic analyses reveal that the suite of traits, traditionally associated with the ‘nigriventris’ phenotype, originated recently close to modern Rome. The phenotype has since spread and eventually introgressed into a distantly related lineage in western Italy. I will explain why the traits are favoured, what limits their spread, and how this creates a mosaic of phenotypic and genetic variation of the species in Italy.
Uller, T. & Laakkonen, H. & Michaelides, S. & While, G.M. & Coulon, A. & Aubret, F. (2019) -
Small-bodied vertebrates sometimes evolve gigantism on islands, but there is a lack of consistent association with ecological factors or island characteristics. One possible reason is that, even if the ecological conditions are right, body size might fail to diverge on islands that were isolated recently or if there is gene flow between islands and the mainland. We studied body size, ventral colour polymorphism and genetic structure across nine islands and adjacent mainland populations of common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) off the western coast of France. Population genetic data suggested that island populations might have maintained gene flow after their geographical isolation from the mainland. Island lizards were larger and heavier than mainland lizards on average, but the extent of gigantism varied substantially between islands. Island size and distance from the mainland were poor predictors of body size, but lizards from populations that were highly genetically differentiated from the mainland were larger than lizards from less differentiated populations. Colour morphs that were rare on the mainland tended to be more common on islands. We propose that genetic isolation or bottlenecks promote body size evolution in island lizards, which makes it challenging to identify ecological causes of island gigantism without complementary genetic information.
Uller, T. & Massot, M. & Richard, M. & Lecomte, J. & Clobert, J. (2004) -
Maternal effects and early environmental conditions are important in shaping offspring developmental trajectories. For example, in laboratory mammals, the sex ratio during gestation has been shown to influence fitness- related traits via hormonal interaction between fetuses. Such effects have the potential to shape, or constrain, many important aspects of the organism’s life, but their generality and importance in natural populations remain unknown. Using long-term data in a viviparous lizard, Lacerta vivipara, we investigated the relationship between prenatal sex ratio and offspring growth, survival, and reproductive traits as adults. Our results show that females from male-biased clutches grow faster, mature earlier, but have lower fecundity than females from female-biased clutches. Furthermore, male reproduction was also affected by the sex ratio during embryonic development, with males from male-biased clutches being more likely to successfully reproduce at age one than males from female-biased clutches. Thus, the sex ratio experienced during gestation can have profound and long-lasting effects on fitness in natural populations of viviparous animals, with important implications for life-history evolution and sex allocation.
Uller, T. & Olsson, M. (2003) -
High levels of testosterone can benefit individual fitness, for example by increasing growth rate or ornament size, which may result in increased reproductive success. However, testosterone induces costs, such as a suppressed immune system, thereby generating trade–offs between growth or mate acquisition, and immunity. In birds and reptiles, females allocate steroids to their eggs, which may be a mechanism whereby females can influence the phenotype of their offspring. To our knowledge, only the benefits of early androgen exposure have been experimentally investigated to date. However, to understand this phenomenon, the costs also need to be evaluated. We manipulated testosterone levels in eggs of the viviparous common lizard and monitored growth, endurance and post–parturient responses to ectoparasites of the offspring. Testosterone–treated individuals had significantly higher growth rates than controls, but suffered a significant decrease in growth rate when exposed to ticks, whereas the corresponding difference for controls was non–significant. There was no difference in observed parasite load or leucocyte count between manipulated and control offspring. Thus, our results suggest that high testosterone levels during embryonic development have detrimental effects on immune function resulting in reduced growth rate, and that this must be taken into consideration when evaluating the potential adaptive value of maternal androgen allocation to eggs.
The prenatal environment influences offspring traits in a variety of ways and in a wide range of taxa. For example, maternal allocation of steroids to the eggs influences offspring traits in birds, and in some mammals the intrauterine position influences morphological, behavioural, and physiological traits due to sex-related steroid transfer between sibling fetuses. We show that similar phenomena occur in the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara), a viviparous reptile. Females developing in male-biased clutches had a more masculine allometry (relatively larger heads) at parturition than females developing in female-biased clutches. Males were correspondingly feminized in female-biased clutches. The effects could either be due to diffusion of steroids produced by the offspring or by a general tendency for females to allocate steroids according to the sex ratio of her clutch. Subsequent to parturition, the sexes differed in their growth trajectories depending on sex ratio environment. In males, the difference in allometry between sex ratio environments remained over time, whereas in females the corresponding effect disappeared.
Uller, T. & Olsson, M. (2005) -
Females of many species mate multiply to obtain material or genetic benefits. However, because of problems associated with estimating number of copulations, our understanding of female mating patterns in natural populations is very limited. We studied correlates of multiple mating over three years in populations of the viviparous common lizard, Lacerta vivipara, a species in which the number of copulations can be reliably inferred from the number of mating scars. Our results show that females with a high number of copulations had lower clutch size, but heavier offspring (controlled for a potential relationship between the two), than females with fewer copulations. This pattern could be driven by sexual selection, ecological, and environmental factors. More promiscuous females had lower proportion of infertile eggs, controlling for clutch size. Thus, one of the primary reasons for multiple copulations in natural populations of L. vivipara could be sperm limitation, or to avoid infertile males.
Limited resources will inevitably lead to trade-offs between traits. However, trade-offs are not always observed, for a variety of reasons. For example, failure to take into account covariates, and high variation in resource acquisition relative to variation in resource allocation, can obscure the underlying trade-off. In the present paper, the trade-off between offspring size and number was examined in the common lizard Lacerta vivipara. Size–number tradeoffs can arise for two different reasons, limited food resources or space constraints. There was no significant trade-off between size and number of young under natural conditions, whereas females captured before ovulation and provided with excess food under laboratory conditions showed a negative correlation between clutch size and offspring size. Food supplementation did not significantly increase reproductive output compared to natural conditions and, thus, the presence of a trade-off under ad libitum conditions was not the result of space limitation in the female reproductive tract. The variance ratio between allocation to investment, however, was twice as high for females ovulating in the laboratory, suggesting that the existence of a trade-off under ad libitum conditions could be a result of less variation among females in resource allocation.
Uller, T. & While, G.M. & Michaelides, S. (2013) -
The common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) has been introduced outside of its native range on many occasions. There are about 30 populations in England, spanning an introduction history of about 100 years. These populations provide oppoftunities to assess how introduction history and founder events shape pat- terns of genetic and phenotypic diversity, and the consequences thereof for population viability. We have identified the geographic and taxonomic origin of the wall lizard populations in England, which falls into five major native lin- eages. The data suggest a moderate loss of genetic diversity compared to native populations, but there is no evidence that this loss of genetic variation causes inbreeding depression in introduced populations. Multiple origins are common in introduced populations and the patterns of genetic variation suggest a complex history of establishment using different native and introduced sources. These data helps to assess the importance of genetic variation and mixing of animals from different origins for establishment success in non-native lizards.
Ünal, N. & Katilmis, Y. & Karaca, M. & Tepe, M. & Kizilkaya, E. & Urhan, R. (2012) -
Unidad de Vida Silvestre (1984) -
There is a census of groups of lizards in some of the small islands of the Balearics, obtained by method of simplified successive suppression. The results are coherent with the observations in 50% of the cases. The minimum known group is of 6 ex. in the small islet of Fornol (Cabrera). The highest density corresponds to Escull Vermell in the group of Ses Bledes in Ibiza with 50 ex. in 350 m2 (1428 ex/Ha).
Universitat de Barcelona (2007) -
Unsicker, K. (1973) -
In the tortoise Testudo graeca, the lizards Lacerta dugesi and Lacerta pityusensis, and the snake Natrix natrix, the innervation of the testicular interstitial tissue was studied by light and electron microscopy, the acetylcholinesterase (ache) technique, the Falck-Hillarp method for the detection of catecholamines, and the application of 6-hydroxydopamine. The intertubular spaces of the reptilian testes studied contain adrenergic nerve fibers the amount and distribution of which varies considerably both in various species and in various stages of the reproduction cycle. Nerve fibers do not enter the seminiferous epithelium. Fluorescence microscopy of the lizard testis reveals catecholaminergic varicosities which are mainly arranged around blood vessels, but do not show obvious connexions to Leydig cells. Ache-positive fibers are equally distributed in lizard testes surrounding each seminiferous tubule. In Natrix natrix ache-positive fibers are irregularly spread among groups of tubules, without showing a definite relation to Leydig cells either. By electron microscopy bundles of unmyelinated axons and axon terminals can be more easily detected in the testes of immature animals than in adult. Terminals of nerve fibers containing small (400–500 Å in diameter) and large (800–1400 Å) dense-cored vesicles and sometimes small clear vesicles establish contacts with Leydig cells. Three types of contact are described. 1. “Contacts” par distance at a distance of about 2000 Å and basal lamina interposed; 2. membranous contacts having a 200 Å gap only between axolemma and Leydig cell plasmalemma; 3. invaginations of terminals into Leydig cell perikarya. The latter may exhibit surface specialisations, which strongly resemble postsynaptic membrane thickenings. Experiments using 6-hydroxydopamine underline the adrenergic character of testicular nerve fibers, which can be regarded as another example of non-cholinergic, ache-positive neurons. In the testis of the immature tortoise profiles of axons occur which probably represent purinergic, ache-positive neurons.
Unsicker, K. (1974) -
The presence of cholinergic nerve terminals was demonstrated in the interrenal gland of the lizards Lacerta dugesi and Lacerta pityusensis. Terminals were more numerous in the subcapsular than in the central zone.
Unsicker, K. (1976) -
Chromaffin, small granule-containing (SGC)-cells, neurons and the innervation of these cells was studied in the adrenal gland of three species of reptiles (Testudo graeca, Lacerta dugesi, Natrix natrix). 1. After fixation with glutaraldehyde and osmium-tetroxide adrenaline (A)- and noradrenaline (NA)-storing cells can be distinguished by means of the different electron density of their granules: A-granules are moderately electron-dense, while NA-granules show a core of high electron density. The unusually high electron density of a few A-granules in Testudo occasionally required viewing of unstained sections which facilitated the discrimination of the two cell types in this species. In all species studied NA-granules display a remarkable polymorphism which is most pronounced in the tortoise. In this species A-granules are polymorphic, too. Both types of granules show wide variations in size, which are particularly great in the tortoise. This species also exhibits the largest average sizes for A-granules (285 nm), and NA-granules (354 nm). The corresponding parameters for Lacerta and Natrix, are 255 and 179 nm for A- and 323 and 304 nm for NA-granules, respectively. The rough ER in A- cells of the tortoise regularly occurs in the form of circular dilations (‘ergastosomes’, Kanerva and Hervonen, 1973). Mitochondria sometimes contain longitudinal cristae with a crystalloid internal pattern. Large dense bodies which incorporate granules are abundant in NA-cells. Smaller dense bodies containing a few dense patches and membranes are present in both A- and NA-cells. Intermediate stages between dense bodies and what appear to be A- or NA-granules (if the latter have lost some of their amine-content) are frequently observed. 2. Small granule containing (SGC)-cells are regularly found in the adrenal of reptiles. Their granules have an average size of 146 nm in Testudo (188 and 107 nm in Lacerta and Natrix, respectively). The cells exhibit a high nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio and an electron-lucent cytoplasm. 3. Various types of nerve cell are present in the reptilian adrenal. Small “light” neurons are similar to SGC-cells, but have only few granules, if any. Large “principal” neurons resemble ganglion cells in various autonomic ganglia. According to the morphology of their nuclei and the amounts and distribution of their ER, they may be divided into “light” and “dark” principal neurons. 4. Chromaffin, SGC- and nerve cells are innervated by cholinergic nerve terminals containing small, clear (500–600 Å in diameter) and large, densecored vesicles measuring 730–1340 Å (Testudo). Synapses are usually found on the cell bodies. A-cells in the tortoise which form long processes have their synapses mostly along these processes. A-cell processes are occasionally found in the media of arterioles. Pre- and postsynaptic membrane specialisations are extremely rare on SGC-cells. 5. Adrenergic nerve profiles, which are processes of neither chromaffin nor SGC-cells, may be identified after application of 5- and 6-hydroxydopamine in close proximity of chromaffin cells.
Unsicker, K. & Burnstock, G. (1975) -
The arrangement and fine structure of peritubular myoid cells was studied in the testes of three species of reptiles (Lacerta dugesi, Testudo graeca and Natrix natrix) during two short periods of the seasonal cycle (European spring and autumn) and correlated with some ultrastructural properties of Leydig cells. The lamina propria consists of myoid cells, fibroblasts and non-cellular components comprising collageneous and non-striated microfibrils. Both components are arranged in alternating layers surrounding seminiferous tubules. In spring the lamina propria of lacertilian testis shows 1–5 layers of myoid cells which are rich in 50–70 Å filaments and exhibit plasmalemmal and intracellular dense patches, smooth vesicles along the cell membrane and a concentration of organelles in a juxtanuclear position. Leydig cells are rich in smooth ER profiles and have few lipid droplets. In autumn most myoid cells are replaced by fibroblast-like elements. Leydig cells display large numbers of lipid droplets and dense bodies, but only small amounts of agranular ER. Similar changes are noted in Leydig cells of Testudo and Natrix. However, in these species the boundary tissue of seminiferous tubules fails to show significant alterations comparing spring and autumn animals. In both species the lamina propria exhibits a few fibroblast-like cells interspersed among myoid cells.
Unterhofer, A. & Kastl, V. & Vitti, S. & Stuppner, H. & Luggin, R. (2015) -
Unwin, P.N.T. & Taddei, C. (1977) -
Urban, P. & Kopecký, O. & Veselý, M. (2006) -
Urbani, J. & Bels, V. (1995) -
This paper deals with a description of feeding phases in the scleroglossan lizard Zonosaurus laticaudatus by using high-speed cinematography. Capture modes are compared with Lacerta viridis. Z. laticaudatus uses the tongue for capturing small prey while both species use jaw prehension for large prey. L. viridis always uses jaw prehension for small prey.
Urošević, A. (2014) -
In this short note, the author presents a record of a melanistic juvenile Dalmatian Algyroides (Algyroides nigropunctatus) in the village of Dassia on the Greek island of Corfu, with the in situ voucher photos. According to the existing literature, melanistic specimens of the Dalmatian Algyroides were recorded only in the north of the species’ range – on the island of Krk (Croatia) and in the village of Dragonja (Slovenia). This is one of the rare reported cases of melanism in Dalmatian Algyroides, and the first record of melanism in the southern part of this species’ distribution range.
Urosevic, A. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Vukov, T. & Andelkovic, M. & Ivanovic, A. & Golubovic, A. & Vucic, T. & Tomovic, L. (2023) -
In this paper, the updated checklist of Serbian amphibians and reptiles is presented. The updated checklist of Serbian amphibians and reptiles was compiled from the literature on distribution, taxonomy and phylogeny. The checklist contains 48 autochthonous and two introduced species. Five species underwent taxonomic revisions (Triturus ivanbureschi, T. macedonicus, Pelobates balcanicus, Bufotes viridis and Mediodactylus kotschyi). Two species were added after recent taxonomic splits of species’ complexes (Hyla orientalis and Anguis colchica). Presence of new (Lacerta trilineata) and introduced species (Hemidactylus turcicus) was confirmed during recent fieldwork. There are at least eight more species that can potentially be present in Serbia. The national protection legislative should be updated according to the current checklist.
Urosevic, A. & Cvijanovic, M. & Vukov, T. & Jankovic, S. & Nikolic, D. & Slijepcevic, M. & Andelkovic, M. & Tomasevic-Kolarov, N. (2016) -
We estimated the effects of chronic mercury exposure on cranium morphology and post-natal development in the Common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768). We collected 45 specimens from the Šuplja stena mercury mine tailings and abandoned mine area. As a control group, we collected 39 specimens from the nearby rock quarry in Ripanj (less than 2 km away), in order to eliminate the possible effects of geographical variation. Both sampling localities are situated on the fringe of Avala mountain near Belgrade, Serbia. Patterns of shape of dorsal and ventral cranium were analysed using geometric morphometrics. Analysis of the sample liver tissues showed that mercury was present in both groups, but the concentration of mercury was significantly greater in population from the Šuplja stena mines. However, apparently high levels of mercury in the population from Šuplja stena had very little to no effect on cranial morphology. Juveniles and females from both localities had practically the same size and shape of the dorsal and ventral cranium. Only the ventral cranium shape of males showed slight differences between the localities, reflected in slightly longer maxillae and wider crania in males from Šuplja Stena. Sexual dimorphism pattern also remained constant in both localities. Although both populations were morphologically uniform, lizards from the Šulja stena mine had higher level of overall shape variance for both dorsal and ventral cranium. Both static and ontogenetic allometry were significant in both groups, and allometric trajectories did not differ between the localities. Cranial morphology and patterns of allometry are apparently well conserved in studied lizard populations, and remain stable regardless of the level of exposure to pollution. Further analyses should focus on subtler patterns of shape variation, including fluctuating asymmetry, and include populations exposed to various pollutants (lead, pesticides, etc.).
Urosevic, A. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Ivanovic, A. (2013) -
We explored the ontogenetic dynamics of the morphological and allometric disparity in the cranium shapes of twelve lacertid lizard species. The analysed species (Darevskia praticola, Dinarolacerta mosorensis, Iberolacerta horvathi, Lacerta agilis, L. trilineata, L. viridis, Podarcis erhardii, P. melisellensis, P. muralis, P. sicula, P. taurica and Zootoca vivipara) can be classified into different ecomorphs: terrestrial lizards that inhabit vegetated habitats (habitats with lush or sparse vegetation), saxicolous and shrub-climbing lizards. We observed that there was an overall increase in the morphological disparity (MD) during the ontogeny of the lacertid lizards. The ventral cranium, which is involved in the mechanics of jaw movement and feeding, showed higher levels of MD, an ontogenetic shift in the morphospace planes and more variable allometric patterns than more conserved dorsal crania. With respect to ecology, the allometric trajectories of the shrub-climbing species tended to cluster together, whereas the allometric trajectories of the saxicolous species were highly dispersed. Our results indicate that the ontogenetic patterns of morphological and allometric disparity in the lacertid lizards are modified by ecology and functional constraints and that the identical mechanisms that lead to intraspecific morphological variation also produce morphological divergence at higher taxonomic levels.
We used Procrustes-based geometric morphometrics to explore morphological variability in dorsal and ventral cranium shape of twelve lacertid lizard species from the Balkan Peninsula (), at the juvenile (neonatal) and at the adult stage (females and males separately). These species differed in phylogenetic relatedness, overall size and habitat preference (terrestrial in overgrown habitats, terrestrial in sparsely vegetated habitats, saxicolous and semiarboreal). General pattern of shape variation appeared to be preserved throughout ontogeny, especially for the dorsal cranium - adult female and male morphospaces corresponded to the neonate morphospace. The inspection of morphospaces showed that the general pattern of shape variability was along the gradient from the smaller to the species with larger body size. Along this gradient, species clustered according to habitat preference. The main difference between neonates and adults was the position of semiarboreal species, which completely separated from the rest of the species at the adult stage. The overall morphological disparity (MD) increased during the course of ontogeny (from neonates to adult females and males). Ventral cranium, with its structures involved in mechanics of jaw movement and feeding, showed greater increase in MD, as well as the shift in the morphospace hyperplanes. On the generic level, Lacerta spp. showed significantly higher MD than Podarcis spp. In contrast to other ecological groups (terrestrial and semiarboreal) saxicolous lizards showed a tendency of decreasing shape disparity during ontogeny. The species from saxicolous group were phylogenetically heterogeneous but morphologically convergent due to the specific habitat constraints, and their distinctive MD pattern could be achieved by different allometric paths. The patterns of shape variation and MD were modified by ecology, functional constraints and different ontogenetic trajectories. Further studies on the ecomorphology, allometric diversity and morphological integration, as well as the reassessment of the problematic lacertid phylogeny are needed in order to shed more light on the complex relationships among morphology, ecology and phylogeny in lacertid lizards.
Urosevic, A. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Ivanovic, A. (2014) -
We analysed patterns of skull size and shape variation among populations of the Common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in the Central Balkans, particularly the effecs of insularity and the presence of the ecologically similar lacertid lizard species P. melisellensis. Two components of shape variation were ana-lysed – size dependent (allometric) and size independent shape changes. The observed shape differentiation relating to insularity was greatly size-dependent and concordant to allometric shape changes which explained over 20% of variation in the skull shape in the analysed sample. The explorative analysis of size-independent shape changes revealed that populations of P. muralis which share habitat with P. melisellensis diverge from populations which do not share habitat with potentially competing species. These changes related to the general shortening and widening of the skull and increase of the jaw adductor muscle chambers were more pronounced in males. We suppose that the observed pattern of shape changes is driven by competition among species (character displacement) and, possibly, is further modified by heterospecific aggression and trophic shift.
Urosevic, A. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Ivanovic, A. (2015) -
We explored individual variation and asymmetry in the skull shape of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis Laurenti, 1768) across four populations representing different habitats, by employing geometric morphometrics. We found directional and fluctuating asymmetry across the analysed populations, without differences in fluctuating asymmetry among populations. Patterns of individual variation and fluctuating asymmetry were highly correlated within and among populations. Asymmetric skull shape variation was similar in all populations, and was mostly related to the jaw adductor muscle chamber. Our results imply that the uniform pattern of skull fluctuating asymmetry results from a high level of canalisation. Directional asymmetry can be related to anatomical and behavioural lateralisation.
Urosevic, A. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Ivanovic, A. (2018) -
Different factors and processes that produce phenotypic variation at the individual, population, or interspecific level can influence or alter the covariance structure among morphological traits. Therefore, studies of the patterns of integration and modularity at multiple levels—static, ontogenetic, and evolutionary, can provide invaluable data on underlying factors and processes that structured morphological variation, directed, or constrained evolutionary changes. Our dataset, consisting of cranium shape data for 14 lizard species from the family Lacertidae, with substantial samples of hatchlings and adults along with their inferred evolutionary relationships, enabled us to assess modularity and morphological integration at all three levels. Five, not mutually exclusive modularity hypotheses of lizard cranium, were tested, and the effects of allometry on intensity and the pattern of integration and modularity were estimated. We used geometric morphometrics to extract symmetric and asymmetric, as well as allometric and nonallometric, components of shape variation. At the static level, firm confirmation of cranial modularity was found for hypotheses which separate anterior and posterior functional compartments of the skull. At the ontogenetic level, two alternative hypotheses (the “anteroposterior” and “neurodermatocranial” hypotheses) of ventral cranial modularity were confirmed. At the evolutionary level, the “neurodermatocranial” hypothesis was confirmed for the ventral cranium, which is in accordance with the pattern observed at the ontogenetic level. The observed pattern of static modularity could be driven by functional demands and can be regarded as adaptive. Ontogenetic modularity and evolutionary modularity show the same developmental origin, indicating conservatism of modularity patterns driven by developmental constraints.
Urosevic, A. & Ljubisavljevic, K. & Tomovic, L. & Krizmanic, I. & Ajtic, R. & Simovic, A. & Labus, N. & Jovic, D. & Colubovic, A. & Andelkovic, M. & Dzukic, G. (2015) -
In this study, we present updated distributional data for all Serbian lacertids, having taken into account the available previously published information, and the so far unpublished authors’ field records and evidence from other sources. According to our current knowledge, eight lacertid species inhabit Serbia. Analysis of lacertid diversity within the country showed that biogeographic regions with highest species diversity are Metohija (eight species) and Kosovo (seven species). Regions in Serbia are mutually similar concerning lacertid faunas (average Bray-Curtis dissimilarity index is 0.82). Comparative analysis of lacertid faunas among all Balkan countries showed that Serbian lacertid fauna is the most similar to those of Albania and the FYR of Macedonia, and then to faunas of Romania and Bulgaria. Zoogeographic analysis showed that Serbian lacertids belong to three distinct chorotypes, with the East-Mediterranean being the richest (four species). Generally, diversity of lacertids in Serbia is most strongly determined by topographic diversity, habitat heterogeneity, and climatic peculiarities, with the inflow of the sub-Mediterranean climate along several river valleys in the south being especially important. This paper is intended to serve as a basis for further research, since data on distribution of lacertid species in Serbia are far from complete, with large distributional gaps of recorded species and with unconfirmed presence of two species.
Urosevic, A. & Paunovic, G. (2024) -
In this paper, we present the recapitulation of the research of amphibian and reptile fauna in the Smederevo municipality. For Serbia, three amphibian species were for the first time detected in Smederevo - (Triturus dobrogicus, Pelobates balcanicus and Pelophylax lessonae). In the literature, occurrence of Vipera berus was also mentioned. Since Smederevo is an important industrial centre, many amphibian and reptile habitats were lost due to urbanization, degradation and pollution, and surface waters were especially affected. Habitat degradation probably led to the local extinction of population of the Adder. Still, increased field effort and inclusion of citizen science led to the first discoveries of Pelobates fuscus and Coronella austriaca in Smederevo, and re-confirmation of the historical entries of Salamandra salamandra and Triturus dobrogicus. The remaining species were mapped to a greater extent, and some species which were previously known from only a few records (Lissotriton vulgaris, Emys orbicularis and Zamenis longissimus) are now mapped in much wider area. The presence of human introduced reptile species such as Trachemys scripta ssp., Mediodactylus kotschyi and Pogona vitticeps is also recorded, with Kotschy`s gecko probably being naturalized. Future research should focus on re-confirmation of the remaining historical records (Pelobates balcanicus) and identifying more habitats of the rare and vulnerable species and protecting them.
Uroševića, A. &Ljubisavljevića, K. & Jelićb, D. & Ivanović, A. (2012) -
We used geometric morphometrics to explore the influence of phylogenetic and allometric constraints as well as ecology on variation in cranium shape in five species of monophyletic, morphologically similar Podarcis lizards (Podarcis erhardii, Podarcis melisellensis, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis sicula and Podarcis taurica). These species belong to different clades, they differ in their habitat preferences and can be classified into two distinct morphotypes: saxicolous and terrestrial. We found (i) no phylogenetic signal in cranium shape, (ii) diverging allometric slopes among species, and (iii) a significant effect of habitat on cranium shape. The saxicolous species (P. erhardii and P. muralis) had crania with elongated parietals, elongated cranium bases, shortened anterior parts of the dorsal cranium, reduced chambers of the jaw adductor muscles and larger subocular foramina. These cranial features are adaptations that compensate for a flattened cranium, dwelling on vertical surfaces and seeking refuge in crevices. The crania of the terrestrial species (P. melisellensis, P. sicula and P. taurica) tended to be more elongate and robust, with enlarged chambers of the jaw adductor muscle, reduced skull bases and shortened parietals. Terrestrial species exhibited more variation in cranium shape than saxicolous species. Our study suggests that shape variation in Podarcis sp. lizards is largely influenced by ecology, which likely affects species-specific patterns of static allometry.
URSENBACHER, S. & Meyer, A. (2023) -
Of the sixteen reptile species indigenous to Switzerland, more than 80 % are classified on the red list according to the criteria defined by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The populations of most species have been in steady decline for several decades, which means that the threat status of most species is stable compared to the previous Red List (Monney and Meyer, 2005). This evolution is more pronounced for the Grass snake and the Smooth snake, species requiring aquatic and dry environments, as well as a network of small structures.
Ushakov, B.P. & Darevsky, I.S. (1959) -
Üstel, S. (2010) -
Uthleb, H. (2025) -
Uthleb, H. & Böhm, K. (2025) -
Üzüm, N. & Ilgaz, Ç. & Avci, A. & Candan, K. & Güler, H. & Kumlutas, Y. (2018) -
In this study, comparison of a life history traits (e.g. body size, age at maturity, longevity) of two populations of Phoenicolacerta laevis from different altitudes is being carried out (Anamur, 22 m a.s.l.; Andirin, 1.083 m a.s.l.) for the first time. We applied phalangeal skeletochrono¬ogy to obtain the age of juveniles and adults. Age was determined by counting the lines of arrested growth (LAGs) in cross¬sections. Males in both populations were the larger of the two sexes and a male biased sexual dimorphism was determined for both populations. Body size (SVL) was similar in both sexes and populations. Age of maturity was calculated to be 3 years of age for males and females in both populations. The average age of males and females was calculated as 6.62 ± 0.37 (Mean±SE) and 6.11 ± 0.26 years in Anamur, and 6.15 ± 0.51 and 5.26 ± 0.24 years in Andirin. There was statistically significant variation between sexes, but no significant difference in populations was found in relation to age. For both populations, a significant positive correlation was found between age and SVL in males and females.
Üzüm, N. & Avci, A. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Beser, N. & Ilgaz, C. (2015) -
The age structure of Eremias suphani was studied from a high-altitude (2180 m a.s.l.) locality in eastern Turkey. A total of 24 preserved (16 males, 7 females, and 1 juvenile) specimens were used in this study. According to the skeletochronological analysis, ages ranged from 6 to 9 years (mean: 7.38 ± 0.22 years) in males and from 6 to 10 years (mean: 7.86 ± 0.51 years) in females. Age at maturity was estimated to be 5–6 years for both males and females. The mean snout–vent length was calculated as 60.88 ± 2.61 mm in males and 58.85 ± 2.44 in females. The sexual dimorphism index was calculated as –0.03. The difference between the sexes for both age and size was not statistically significant.
Üzüm, N. & Ilgaz, C. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Gümüs, C. & Avci, A. (2014) -
The age structure of a breeding population portion of Acanthodactylus boskianus (Daudin, 1802) from south-east of Turkey was studied by using skeletochronology for the first time. Totally 21 preserved (9♂♂, 8♀♀ and 4 juveniles) specimens were used in this study. According to the analysis of the age structure based on counting lines of arrested growth (LAGs), ages ranged from 6 to 9 years (mean = 7.44±0.34 years) in males and from 5 to 7 years (mean = 6.13±0.30 years) in females. Juveniles were from 3 to 4 years old. Age at maturity was estimated to be 4-5 years and the adult survival rates were estimated to be 0.62 for males and 0.56 for females. The mean snout–vent length was calculated as 79.09 ± 1.16 mm in males, 65.90 ± 2.02 in females and 43.55 ± 2.02 mm in juveniles. The sexual dimorphism index (SDI) calculated as - 0.20. The difference between the sexes in age and size was statistically significant.
Uzzell, T. & Darevsky, I.S. (1973) -
Lacerta portschinskii and L. raddei co-occur at two localities north of Lake Sevan in the Armenian S. S. R. Electrophoretic patterns of hemoglobin, mannosephosphate isomerase, glucosephosphate isomerase, lactate dehydrogenase, and peptidases specific for leucyl-tyrosine and leucyl-glycyl-glycine distinguish these taxa and reveal no evidence of hybridization where the taxa are sympatric. The two taxa thus are not conspecific, although both are usually considered races of Lacerta saxicola.
Uzzell, T. & Darevsky, I.S. (1974) -
Uzzell, T. & Darevsky, I.S. (1975) -
Five proteins (mannosephosphate isomerase, glucosephosphate isomerase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, hemoglobin) were examined for six bisexual Transcaucasian taxa related to Lacerta saxicola (Lacerta valentini, L. portschinskii, L. raddei raddei, L. r. nairensis, L. mixta, L. parvula) and four unisexual taxa (Lacerta armeniaca, L. dahli, L. rostombekovi, L. unisexualis). Heterozygosity in the bisexual taxa was very limited for this sample of proteins. All individuals examined of each unisexual were heterozygous at loci specifying at least two of these proteins (L. armeniaca: mannosephosphate isomerase and creatine kinase; L. dahli, mannosephosphate isomerase and hemoglobin; L. rostombekovi, glucosephosphate isomerase, mannosephosphate isomerase and hemoglobin; L. unisexualis, glucosephosphate isomerase, mannosephosphate isomerase and creatine kinase). High levels of heterozygosity in unisexuals appears to result from the hybrid origin of the unisexuals. The exact combinations of alleles present in unisexuals would readily result from certain crosses among the bisexuals, and from no others. The first point supports the hypothesis that hybridization accounts for the observed heterozygosity, the second identifies, biochemically at least, the probable parents. On these biochemical grounds, L. armeniaca arose by hybridization of L. valentini and L. mixta; L. unisexualis from L. valentini and L. r. nairensis; L. rostombekovi from L. r. raddei and L. portschinskii; and L. dahli from L. portschinskii and L. mixta. With regard to altitudinal distribution, vegetational associations and geographic distribution, each unisexual species appears to be intermediate between its putative parental species. L. armeniaca, L. unisexualis and L. rostombekovi all live in drier situations than either parental species. L. dahli is an exception since it occupies slightly more moist habitats than L. portschinskii. Biogeographical considerations appear to place the age of L. unisexualis and L. rostombekovi at greater than 5000 years. It is possible that their occupancy of more extreme habitats than their parental species represents a relic ecology, reflecting the adaptations of the parental bisexual species when the unisexual species arose, rather than a weed habitat into which they moved to escape from competition with their parental species. The fixed heterozygosity of the unisexual species of Lacerta indicates that the restitution of somatic diploidy results either from a premeiotic endoduplication without cytokinesis, or from fusion of the female pronucleus with one of the second division meiotic products of the first polar nucleus. The first mechanism is inconsistent with the number of bivalents reported, the second is otherwise unknown in organisms in which the first polar nucleus becomes a polar body. The bisexual taxa are treated as several distinct species, four pairs of which are partly sympatric with little or no hybridization. Morphological and ecological differences between the other taxa are so great that there seems little question about specific distinctness. The degree of biochemical and morphological difference between these non-sympatric taxa is as great as that between those that do occur sympatrically without fusing. The formation of parthenogenetic species as a result of past hybridization between some pairs indicates a great selective disadvantage to these pairs of hybridizing, and is thus compelling evidence that the two members of each pair are not conspecific.
Uzzell,T. (1972) -
Vacher, J.-P. (1999) -
Altitudinal record for the Iberian wall lizard Podarcis hispanica (Steindachner, 1870) (Squamata, Lacertidae) in France. The highest altitude is recorded for Podarcis hisplnica in France. A male was found at height of more than 1600 min the eastern part of the Pyrenees-Orientales department (66). The observation opens up a new perspective on the species` biogeography on the French slopes of the Pyrenees.
Vacher, J.-P. (2010) -
Vacher, J.-P. & Cochard, P.-O. (2012) -
Vacher, J.-P. & Geniez, M. (2010) -
Vacher, J.-P. & Thiriet, J. & Michel, V. (2015) -
Die Mauereidechse ist eine häufige und weit verbreitete Art im Elsass. Ihr Hauptverbreitungsschwerpunkt liegt an den Ausläufern der Vogesen. Sie besiedelt felsige, steinige Habitate wie Steinbrüche, Felsabbrüche. Trockenmauern, Straßen- und Bahnböschungen, alte gebäude und Ruinen. Obwohl die Art in Frankreich geschützt ist, existieren keine spezifischen Schutzmaßnahmen für die Mauereidechse im Elsass. Um den Kenntnisstand über ihre tatsächliche Verbreitung in der Region zu verbessern, sind Kartierungen in Lebensräumen oberhalb 400 m ü.M. notwendig.
Vacher, J.-P. & Wendling, T. (2019) -
Vacher, J.P. & Thiriet, J. (2011) -
Vacheva, E. (2018) -
The Viviparous lizard is the reptile species with the widest distribution in Eurasia (from Ireland to Japan and from South Europe to north of the Arctic Circle). In the southern parts of its distribution range such as in Bulgaria, this species is a glacial relict, restricted to mountainous areas. In Bulgaria, Zootoca vivipara is known from isolated populations in the mountains of Stara Planina, Vitosha, Rila, Pirin, Osogovo and Western Rhodopes, where it inhabits open humid areas from 1200 to 2900 m a.s.l. In spite of its wide distribution, there is still lack of knowledge on its dietary habits, especially from the southern part of the range. The study area embaraced three sites in Bulgaria (Vitosha Mt, Rila Mt and Stara Planina Mt.). There were visited in 2016 and 2017 during the active season (May–September) and 343 Viviparous lizards were captured by hand. To investigate the food preferences faecal samples were used. A total of 166 faecal samples were collect that could be inidivually attached to specimen, age, sex and ocupied habitat. In adition, to investigate the use of food resources, invertebrates were colected from the field using pit-ful traps. The most preferred invertebrates groups were Auchenorrhyncha, Araneae and Coleoptera, followed by Fomicidae, Opiliones, Orthoptera and Heteroptera. In spring (May and June) the diet were dominated by beetles and spiders, while the sumer diet were more diverse and dominated by cicadas, spiders, ants, opiliones and grasshoppers.
Vacheva, E. (2024) -
Los escorpiones constituyen una de las presas más difícilmente consumibles por lagartos de pequeño tamaño, pudiendo calificarse como presas peligrosas por su comportamiento defensivo cuando son atacados. Aquí se presenta casos de alimentación de escorpiones por dos especies de lacértidos y una de escíncido de Bulgaria, basados en el análisis de muestras fecales. La alimentación de escorpiones rara vez se observa en lagartos europeos, especialmente en poblaciones continentales, y en opinión de la autora estos son los primeros casos documentados en Bulgaria. A partir de estos resultados se sugiere que el uso de presas potencialmente peligrosas podría deberse a una posible competencia inter e intraespecífica, lo que podría ser más evidente en verano cuando los recursos tróficos son escasos.
Vacheva, E. & Naumov, B. (2019) -
The Viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823) is widespread across Eurasia, but in Bulgaria it is considered a glacial relict, restricted to the high mountains. In spite of its wide distribution, there is still lack of knowledge on its dietary habits, especially from the southern part of the range. In order to shed light on its diet, we conducted а study in three mountain sites in Bulgaria (Vitosha, Rila and Stara Planina Mtns.). They were visited in 2016 and 2017 during the lizard`s active season (May–September); 343 Viviparous lizards were captured by hand and measured and weighed. To investigate the food preferences, we adopted a noninvasive method, obtaining faecal samples, which were then analysed under a stereoscopic microscope. A total of 290 faecal samples that could be assigned to individual specimens with determined age and sex were collected. We calculated the relative abundance and occurrence of each prey category. Data were compared by sex and age classes (immatures vs. adults) as a whole and for each of the three sites. A total of 19 prey categories were detected and the number of categories per study site varied between 16 and 18. The most common invertebrates were Araneae and Auchenorrhyncha. Statistically significant differences between immatures and adults were found as adults showed more diverse diet. No such differences between sexes were detected.
Vacheva, E. & Naumov, B. (2021) -
Vacheva, E. & Naumov, B. (2022) -
The Meadow lizard (Darevskia praticola s.l.) is one of the more poorly-studied lizard species in Europe, and no detailed data on its diet is available. We investigated a total of 180 faecal samples of D. praticola s.l. from two locations in Bulgaria, and conducted a comparison between sex and age groups (adult males, adult females, and immatures). In addition, the correlations between the consumed prey and the available resources were also analysed. Food selectivity was analysed by comparing the faecal samples with pit-fall trap samples on the basis of abundance of prey items from particular operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Results indicate that the diet of the Meadow lizard contains mainly arthropods (insects and spiders) and the most abundant prey items belong to Araneae, Auchenorrhyncha, and Coleoptera. According to the used electivity indices none of the OTUs are highly preferred by D. praticola s.l., but Formicidae are the most avoided OTU for all sex/age groups. Differences in food preferences can be found between adults and immatures, while differences among males and females seem to be insignificant. The lack of clear differentiation between males and females could be a result of their similar size and locomotor ability. In conclusion, our results reveal that Darevskia praticola s.l. is a generalist and it shows no food specialization due to its narrow spatial niche.
Vacheva, E. & Naumov, B. (2024) -
The eastern green lizard (Lacerta viridis) is a mostly insectivorous species, based on multiple studies from across its range. However, for Bulgaria the published data of such kind are limited to five publications. We investigated faecal samples from a total of 60 individuals of free-ranging L. viridis obtained from two localities in western Bulgaria. Our aim was to clarify the diet regarding its taxonomic composition, as well as some physical characteristics of the prey like hardness and evasiveness. For one of the study sites we compared the realised trophic niche (prey items from the faecal pellets) with the fundamental niche (invertebrates collected via pit-fall traps exposure). In our results, two invertebrate taxa had the largest share (both in frequency and abundance) in the food spectrum of L. viridis: Araneae and Coleoptera), respectively 21.2% and 17.6%. Regarding specific prey selectivity, analysis showed that Lepidoptera are most preferred (E* = 0.68), and Formicidae – most avoided prey items (E* = -0.79). We registered several cases of saurophagy (in four samples) and keratophagy (in two samples), two types of dietary items, which have not been reported for L. viridis so far.
The Common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) has the largest range among the genus Podarcis. Although there are a number of studies on its diet, data on regional level remains insufficient, particularly from a purely ecological perspective. We investigated 194 individual faecal samples of P. muralis obtained from two localities in western Bulgaria with the aim of clarifying the composition of the trophic spectrum of the species, as well as the intra-population characteristics in terms of age and sex. In one study site, we compared the realized trophic niche (prey items from the faecal pellets) with the fundamental (invertebrates collected via pit-fall traps exposure). We confirmed that P. muralis is an opportunist in terms of feeding and has a very wide trophic spectrum including several taxa, which have not been reported until now as a part of the species’ diet. We revealed differences in feeding behavior between subadults and adults, as well as between males and females. Adults have higher diversity in the food spectrum compared to subadults. According to sexes, females have more varied diet. We also report for the first time for the species six cases of keratophagy. Also, we identified a relatively frequent occurrence of saurophagy (n = 16), including in females and subadults, for which this phenomenon has not been recorded so far.
The Balkan wall lizard (Podarcis tauricus) is a small-sized ground-dwelling species distributed in southeastern Europe and northwestern Anatolia. Although some insights into its diet and food preferences were published, there is still a lack of knowledge of its feeding ecology in parts of its range, especially in Bulgaria. Our results showed that the trophic spectrum of P. tauricus in NW Bulgaria consists of insects and arachnids. At a lower taxonomic level, two orders - Hymenoptera (incl. Formicidae) (24.63%) and Heteroptera (23.19%) have almost equal participation and together represent nearly 50% of the diet, while among other groups, only Orthoptera (13.04%) and Araneae (11.59%) have a significant presence.
Vacheva, E. & Sedefchev, H. & Stanev, N. & Tsevtkov, M. & Lazarkevich, I. (2022) -
Vacheva, E.D. & Naumov, B.Y. & Tzankov, N.D. (2020) -
The spatial niches and habitat preferences of six sympatric lizard species were studied in two model ter-ritories in western Bulgaria. The highest level of species diversity (based on two indices, Simpson and Shannon) was reported in the ecotone between oak forests and meadows. The spatial niche breadth was wider in the wall lizard Podarcis muralis and the eastern green lizard Lacerta viridis, while other species showed more restricted preferences to a particular habitat type. To our knowledge, this is the first purpose-ful research on the habitat preferences of lizard species of the Balkans, based on quantitative data. The results in the present work could be used in further and more detailed analyses.
Václav, R. & Prokop, P. & Fekiač, V. (2007) -
According to the hypothesis of parasite-mediated sexual selection, for a communication system to work reliably, parasites should reduce the showiness of sexual signals of their host. In this study, we examined whether the expression of breeding coloration in free-ranging adult European Green Lizards (Lacerta viridis (Laurenti, 1768)) is linked with infestation by their common ectoparasite Ixodes ricinus (L., 1758) (Acari: Ixodidae). We found that tick infestation was higher in males than in females. Males showing relatively heavier body for their tail length (predominantly males with regenerated tails) and relatively thinner tail base experienced higher infestation rates. In turn, relatively heavier females for their snout-vent length were less tick infested. Although some components of throat and chest coloration varied significantly with relative tail length, tail-base thickness, body mass, and head size, a measure of male throat and female chest color saturation seemed independent of lizard morphology. After correcting for the effects of morphology on skin coloration and tick load, the saturation of blue throat color in male lizards decreased with increasing level of tick infestation. In contrast, yellow chest color saturation increased with residual tick numbers in females. Considering presumably different signaling functions of male and female lizard coloration, our work suggests that tick infestation might represent a handicap for Green Lizards.
Vaillant, L. (1882) -
Vaillant, L. (1884) -
Vainer, M. (1999) -
Vaissi, S. (2022) -
This study explores the relationships between recent Iranian lizard species distributions and the observed climate, as well as potential future distributions of species. For this purpose, an ensemble of seven algorithms was used to forecast the distributions of 30 species for the recent and future (2070) based on the averages of 14 global climate models under optimistic (RCP2.6) and pessimistic (RCP8.5) scenarios. Annual precipitation (n= 16) and annual mean temperature (n= 7) were identifed as the most important variables in determining the distribution of 76.66% (23 out of 30) of the species. The consensus model predicts that the ranges of 83.33% of species (n= 25) have the potential to expand poleward at higher latitudes while preserving the majority of their recent distributions (except for four species). Furthermore, the ranges of the remaining species (n= 5) will be preserved at higher latitudes. However, they (n= 22) may contract slightly (n= 13) or excessively (n= 9) in the south of their distribution range at lower latitudes. These results indicate that species (N= 19) situated in mountainous areas such as the Zagros, Alborz, and Kopet Dagh may move or maintain their range at higher elevations as a result of future climate change. Finally, this study suggests that 30% of species (n= 9) may be threatened by future climate change and that they should be prioritized in conservation eforts.
Vaissi, S. & Fathipour, F. & Salamat, M.A. & Parto, P. & Sharifi, M. (2013) -
The aim of this study was to determine the erythrocyte and nucleus sizes of two species of Agamidae (Laudakia nupta and Trapelus lessonae), one species of Scincidae (Mabuya aurata) and one species of Lacertidae (Ophisops elegans) from Iran by means of blood smears stained with Giemsa. The sizes of erythrocytes and their nuclei were measured using an ocular micrometer at a magnification of 6300x. The longest, widest and largest erythrocytes were found in Laudakia nupta. The shortest and narrowest erythrocytes and nuclei were found in Trapelus lessonae. The longest, widest and largest nuclei were found in Mabuya aurata. The study revealed significant variation between Iranian species and others indicating the significant affect of environmental conditions.
Valakos, E.D. (1986) -
Valakos, E.D. (1990) -
Valakos, E.D. & Adamopoulou, C. & Maragou, P. & Mylonas, M. (1997) -
Valakos, E.D. & Böhme, W. & Pérez-Mellado, V. & Maragou, P. (1993) -
Valakos, E.D. & Kourkouli, A. & Skopeliti, M. & Pafilis, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Voutsas, I.F. & Lymberakis, P.L.& Simou, C. & Voelter, W. & Tsitsilonis, O.E. (2007) -
Most recent molecular studies revealed the phylogeny of Greek Podarcis species, which for years remained elusive, due to discordant data produced from various chromosomal, complement fixation and protein studies. In this report, we analyzed cellular immune responses of spleen- derived lymphocytes from six allopatric Podarcis species encountered in Greece, by assessing two-way mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR)- induced proliferation. On the basis of stimulation indices (S.I.) as determined from cultures set up from xenogeneic splenocytes coincubated in pairs, we generated a phylogenetic tree, fully consistent with the phylogenetic relationships of Podarcis as determined by parallel analyses based on partial mitochondrial (mt) DNA sequences. Although the exact mechanisms triggering lymphocyte responses in lizard two-way xenogeneic MLR are not fully understood, our results show the potential use of cell-mediated immune responses as an additional approach to mtDNA analysis, for species delimitation within specific lizard taxa.
Valakos, E.D. & Maragou, P. & Mylonas, M. (1995) -
Valakos, E.D. & Maragou, P. & Mylonas, M. (1999) -
Valakos, E.D. & Mylonas, M. (1992) -
The unknown herpetofauna of the Strofadhes Islands is presented and discussed. Its composition places Strofadhes Islands into the same biogeographical subunit as Peloponnesos and Zakynthos Island. The preferred habitats, densities, activities and thermal requirements for the most abundant species are given. The occurrence of gigantism in male individuals of Podarcis taurica in the smaller island (Arpya) is discussed.
Valakos, E.D. & Pafilis, P. (2005) -
Valakos, E.D. & Pafilis, P. & Germanou, A. (1998) -
Valakos, E.D. & Pafilis, P. & Sotiropoulos, K. & Lymberakis, P. & Maragou, P. & Foufopoulos, J. (2008) -
Valdeón, A. & Gosà, A. (2021) -
From 2012 to 2021, a total of 435 observations of reptiles were collected in the Special Area of Conservation of the Bardenas Reales (Navarre) and its surrounding area, corresponding to 15 autochthonous species. The observations were mapped on 5 x 5 km UTM grids, which allowed the distribution of these species in the area to be updated. Their pattern of presence can be summarised in three types of spatial occupation: ubiquitous species, species with a specific distribution in selective environments and species concentrated in restricted and specific areas. The Mediterranean scrub is the habitat with the highest number of observations (63 % of the records). The most widely represented lizard species was Psammodromus algirus (Linnaeus, 1758) (73.81 % of the squares), and the snake species, Natrix maura (Linnaeus, 1758) (38.10 %). Emys orbicularis (Linnaeus, 1758), favoured by a population monitoring and habitat improvement programme, was located in 16.67 % of the squares. The rarest species were Chalcides bedriagai (Boscá, 1880) (2.38 %) and Vipera latastei Boscá, 1878 (9. 52 %).
Valdeón, A. & Perera, A. & Costa, S. & Sampaio, F. & Carretero, M.A. (2010) -
Valenciuc, N. & Varvara, M. & Brinza, V. (1988) -
Valente Baptista, N.R. & Cuna Sá-Sousa, P.A. da (2006) -
Valenzuela, A. & Alcover, J.A. (2012) -
We present radiocarbon evidence for the presence of the weasel (Mustela nivalis) on Mallorca prior to the Roman colonization of the Balearics. Bone collagen from a single specimen recovered at Cova del Ninot, Mallorca rendered two radiocarbon ages, independently obtained at two laboratories (2σ interval: 386–206 cal BC). These dates indicate that the translocation of the weasel to Mallorca occurred in Late Prehistory. The inhabitants of Mallorca at that time were the Talaiotic people (Iron Age settlers of the Balearics). The weasel appears to have been introduced by Talaiotic mercenaries returning to the island on Carthaginian ships. This is the first documented case of the translocation of a wild carnivorous mammal to the Gymnesic Islands (i.e., Mallorca and Menorca) in prehistoric times. Some ecological consequences of this invasion are outlined.
Valiante, S. & Prisco, M. & De Falco, M. & Virgilio, F. & Sciarrillo, R. & Andreuccetti, P. & Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. (2005) -
The distribution of endothelin-converting enzyme (ECE) in the lizard Podarcis sicula was investigated immunohistochemically using antibodies against endothelin-converting enzyme ECE-1 and endothelin-converting enzyme ECE-2 homologues. In all the tissues examined, immunoreactivity for both antibodies was found, although the distribution and degree of expression varied. Strong immunoreactivity was found in the endothelial cells and chromaffin tissue for both enzymes, whereas other tissues such as nervous tissue, renal tissue and hepatocytes display distinct patterns. Current knowledge does not allow correlation of these distribution patterns to specific functions but the data suggest that, in reptiles as in mammals, ECE is probably involved in physiological functions such as paracrine activity through endothelins and/or other substrates.
Valiante, S. & Prisco, M. & Sciarrillo, R. & Falco, M. de & Capaldo, A. & Gay, F. & Andreuccetti, P. & Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. (2008) -
Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) are regulatory neuropeptides of the hypothalamus-hypophyseal-adrenal axis, acting via the common receptors VPAC(1) and VPAC(2) and the selective PACAP receptor PAC(1). In the adrenal glands of the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis sicula, the presence of VIP in chromaffin cells, and the VIP-stimulated release of catecholamine and aldosterone in vivo, was previously shown. To examine the localization of both peptides and receptors and their mRNAs in the adrenal gland of P. sicula, immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization were performed: PACAP and its mRNA were detected in chromaffin cells, VPAC(1) was found associated with steroidogenic tissue, VPAC(2) and PAC(1) with chromaffin tissue. Using `far western blot` technique, we showed the presence of specific binding sites for VIP/PACAP in the adrenal glands of the lizard. The effects of both VIP and PACAP on the adrenal cells of the lizard were examined in vitro in adrenal cell co-cultures: both VIP and PACAP enhanced catecholamine, corticosterone and aldosterone release from adrenal cell co-culture in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The catecholamine release was inhibited by PAC(1) antagonist and in VPAC(2) immunoneutralized adrenal cells. The effects of VIP and PACAP on aldosterone secretion were counteracted by VPAC(1) antagonist administration in vitro. Corticosterone secretion elicited by VIP was not blocked by VPAC(1) antagonist, while the PACAP-induced release of corticosterone was blocked by the antagonist. Overall, our investigations indicate that these neuropeptides of the secretin superfamily can act not only as neurotransmitters but also as autocrine and paracrine regulators on chromaffin and cortical cells, being important mediators of the non-cholinergic system in the lizard adrenal gland.
Valicek, L. (2018) -
Die Zauneidechse Lacerta agilis Linnaeus 1758 besitzt das zweitgrößte Verbreitungsgebiet aller europäischer Eidechsenarten und zählt somit zu den am weitesten verbreiteten mittel- und osteuropäischen Reptilienarten. Durch die anthropogenen Landschaftsveränderungen wurde die Zauneidechse zum Kulturfolger des Menschen und anthropogen geprägte Flächen wurden zu beliebten Lebensräumen der Art. Allerdings zeigt der langfristige Bestandstrend der Zauneidechse mittlerweile einen starken Rückgang. In der Steiermark gibt es nur wenige Studien über die derzeitige Verbreitung und Bestandssituation der Zauneidechse. Ziel dieser Studie war die Erhebung der aktuellen Verbreitung der Zauneidechse im Grazer Stadtgebiet, sowie die Ermittlung des aktuellen Erhaltungszustandes bezogen auf die jeweiligen untersuchten Lebensräume bzw. Lokalpopulationen, sowie die Abschätzung gegenwärtiger und möglicher zukünftiger Beeinträchtigungen. Von April bis September 2015 und 2016, wurden mittels Transektzählung Zauneidechsen in Graz kartiert. Zudem wurde mit speziell erarbeiteten Kriterien zur Bewertung des Lebensraumes und der darin lebenden Population, Daten über die Verbreitung, die Populationsgröße und -struktur, die Qualität des Habitats (Häufigkeit von Strukturelementen, Exposition, Anteil wärmebegünstigter Teilflächen, Eiablageplätze, Vernetzung etc.) sowie über Beeinträchtigungs- und Störungsfaktoren der Zauneidechse in der Stadt Graz gesammelt. In Summe wurden 150 Flächen untersucht. Aktuell konnten nur mehr auf acht Flächen Zauneidechsen nachgewiesen werden. Diese Bestände lassen sich zu fünf bis sechs Populationen zusammenfassen. Im Vergleich zu den historisch vorliegenden Daten über das ehemalige Verbreitungsgebiet der Zauneidechse in der Stadt Graz, konnte eine deutliche Reduzierung des Verbreitungsgebietes auf wenige, isolierte Standorte festgestellt werden. Die meisten Flächen befinden sich aktuell in einem „mittel bis schlechten“ Erhaltungszustand. Während die Qualität der Lebensräume auf den meisten Flächen mit „sehr gut“ bewertet wurde, kam es durch die fehlende Vernetzung und aufgrund weiterer aktueller Gefährdungsursachen zu einer Herabstufung des Gesamtwertes. Zu diesen Gefährdungsursachen zählen neben dem Verlust der Lebensräume und der Verschlechterung der Habitatqualität, vor allem die Isolierung der Populationen und die Gefährdung durch Verkehr und Prädatoren (z.B. Haustiere). Des Weiteren wird eine Verdrängung durch die sympatrisch lebende Mauereidechse Podarcis muralis angenommen. Durch die Planung und Durchführung von Schutzmaßnahmen könnte in Graz ein „günstiger“ Erhaltungszustand der Zauneidechse erhalten bzw. wiederhergestellt werden. Werden keine Maßnahmen gesetzt, ist ein lokales Aussterben der Zauneidechse in Graz im nächsten Jahrzehnt zu erwarten.
Valido, A. (1999) -
Valido, A. & Nogales, M. (1994) -
The relationship between an endemic lizard (Gallotia galloti) and plants with fleshy fruits was examined in a xeric habitat on the island of Tenerife, Canary Islands. An analysis of 441 droppings collected in May 1991, showed that fruits are an important item in the diet of this omnivorous lizard; 92% and 56% of droppings contained fruits from two different areas. Fruits of seven plant species were found in the droppings: Rubia fruticosa, Neochamaelea pulverulenta, Withania aristata, Lycium intricatum, Atriplex semibaccata, Opuntia dillenii and Scilla cf. haemorrhoidalis. The number of fruit species consumed at each area by G. galloti was related to their availability. Seed Viability did not differ between control seeds and seeds from the droppings, except for N. pulverulenta and L. intricatum, where viability was higher in control seeds. The gut passage of seeds significantly reduced the germination of R. fruticosa and N. pulverulenta, increased that of W aristata while no differences were found for the rest. Gallotia galloti preferred rocky and grassy sites with,less open ground and more shrub cover >50 cm in height). This should produce a non-random seed shadow in the habitats, potentially affecting the distribution of species with fleshy fruits. Omnivorous lizards on islands can act as important seed dispersers over short distances for plant species with fleshy fruits, actively influencing both their relative abundance and vegetation structure in xeric habitats.
Valido, A. & Nogales, M. (2003) -
Omnivorous endemic Canarian lacertids (Gallotia atlantica and G. galloti) do not present any specific digestive and physiological adaptations to herbivorous diet, compared to species and populations with a different degree of herbivory in the Canarian archipelago. The only characteristics that could be related to the type of diet were the number of cusps per tooth (between species) and the number of small stones contained in droppings (between species and populations). The rest of measured traits were correlated with lizard size and for this reason G. galloti has longer intestines, heavier stomachs and livers, more teeth and cusps, and longer gut passage. These data suggest that body size is a major determinant of the reliance on plant food (mainly fleshy fruits) in these lizards and facilitates mutualistic interactions with fleshy-fruited plant species.
Valido, A. & Nogales, M. & Medina, F.M. (2003) -
We analyzed the frugivorous diet of the lizard Gallotia galloti, a Canary Island endemic, in relation to season and fruit availability in a xeric habitat from Tenerife. Gallotia galloti was omnivorous throughout the year (including >59% of plant material by volume in fecal pellets); only in the winter months (December and January) did invertebrates dominate the diet (>73% in volume). The most remarkable aspect of the diet was the high level of consumption of fleshy fruits, showing pronounced seasonal variation (from 30% in January to 95% in April in frequency of occurrence). Variation in fleshy fruit consumption was associated with seasonal patterns of fruits availability. A total of 4710 seeds were found in 1120 droppings analyzed during the entire year corresponding the majority to Rubia fruticosa and Plocama pendula (Rubiaceae). The extensive consumption of fleshy fruits during seven months of the year (>50% by volume) suggests G. galloti is an important seed disperser in the Canary Islands. These results contrast with the majority of continental lacertids that are insectivorous.
Valido, A. & Rando, J.C. & Nogales, M. & Martin, A. (2000) -
Valladolid, M. & González-Fernández, J.E. (2001) -
Vallarino, M. (1984) -
The distribution of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) was studied in the brain of the lizard Lacerta muralis by means of immunocytochemical staining methods. α-MSH-like containing cells were found in the ventro-lateral preoptic area and the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei. Some scattered cells staining for α-MSH were also detected in the mesencephalo-diencephalic boundary region, while numerous α-MSH-like nerve fibres were localized in the medial eminence. No reaction was observed after the use of antiserum preabsorbed with synthetic antigen. These findings suggest that an α-MSH-like peptidergic system could possibly be involved in the hypothalamo-hypophysial regulation and/or play a role as neurotransmitter in this animal.
Vallarino, M. & Feuilloley, M. & D`Aniello, B. & Rastogi, R.K. & Vaudry, H. (1994) -
The distribution of FMRFamide-like immunoreactive peptides was investigated in the brain of the lizard, Podarcis sicula, using the indirect immunofluorescence technique. The main populations of FMRFamide-immunoreactive cell bodies were located in the forebrain. In the telencephalon, FMRFamide-containing neurons were found both in the pallium and subpallium, namely in the medial cortex, the anterior olfactory nucleus, the nucleus accumbens, the septal nuclei, the nucleus of the medial forebrain bundle, and the nucleus of the diagonal band of Broca. In the diencephalon, a dense accumulation of FMRFamide-immunoreactive neurons was observed in the area preoptica lateralis, the nucleus suprachiasmaticus, the nucleus periventricularis hypothalami, the area lateralis hypothalami, and the dorsal region of the nucleus geniculatus lateralis. In the midbrain, sparse immunoreactive perikarya were found in the tegmentum of the mesencephalon. FMRFamide-immunoreactive fibers were visualized in all regions containing positive cell bodies. In particular, dense bundles of immunoreactive processes were seen in the area preoptica lateralis, in the hypothalamus, and in the median eminence. The tectum and the basal mesencephalon were also densely innervated. Conversely, the caudal brain stem only exhibited scarce immunoreactive processes. The distribution pattern of FMRFamide-immunoreactive neurons in the brain of Podarcis sicula exhibits a number of similarities with that reported in mammals, but significantly differs from that reported in amphibians and fish, suggesting that the neuromodulatory functions of FMRFamide may have diverged during the emergence of terrestrial life.
Valverde, J.A. (1958) -
Valyaeva, A.A. & Martirosyan, I.A. (2021) -
Van Bree, H. & Plantaz, R. & Zuiderwijk, A. (2006) -
In 2000, an isolated population of sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) was discovered on an island in the Netherlands. The population-size was estimated at 57 adult individuals. Subsequently, the area has been improved to make the habitat more suitable for sand lizards. After 5 years of monitoring the population-size was estimated again. There are no indications for major population-size changes, for the population-size is estimated at 59 adult individuals. There is no significant difference in the population structure, although males were more abundant in 2005 than in 2001. Males outnumbered females in both years. The newly made dunes are populated by males, females and sub-adults. Gulls do not seem to conduct a predator stress, as there were no lizards seen there with autotomy. Nevertheless, gulls are believed to negatively influence habitat quality for the lizards. On the short term, cats seem to be the biggest threat to the sand lizards as there are strong indications that they have killed 10 % of the whole population within six weeks.
Van Damme, R. (1989) -
Van Damme, R. (1999) -
I tested the putative correlation between insularity and herbivory in lacertid lizards (including Podarcis lilfordi and Podarcis pityusensis). Analysis of literature data on 97 populations of 52 species shows that lizards populations on islands more often include plant material in their diet than do mainland populations. To investigate whether this finding reflects adaptation due to recent selection or is merely a product of the phylogenetic history of the populations, I reconstructed the ancestral status for diets and insularity and incorporated them in the analysis. Changes in habitat (island - mainland or mainland - island) often went with changes in diet (herbivore - insectivore or insectivore - omnivore). Inectivorous lizards that find themselves on islands more often turn towards herbivory than do lizards living in mainland situations. Lizards that allready have plants in their diet when living on the mainland seem more succesfull in colonizing islands. Herbivorous populations of lacertids tend to be larger than insectivorous populations, but there is considerable overlap. No difference in mean snout-vent length was found between island and mainland populations.
Van Damme, R. (2001) -
Van Damme, R. & Aerts, P. & Vanhooydonck, B. (1997) -
Biomechanical reflections suggest that lizards that have specialized in running should differ in parts of their morphological design from lizards that have specialized in climbing. Moreover, adaptation in one direction may conflict with performance in the other. We tested this assumed trade-off by measuring climbing and running performance in two subspecies of the Mediterranean lizard Podarcis hispanica. One subspecies, P. h. atrata, inhabits a number of small islets near the Spanish coast. It is mainly ground dwelling. The other subspecies, P. h. hispanica, was sampled on the mainland of Spain. It frequently occupies vertical elements within its habitat. Our data do not support the notion of a trade-off between both types of locomotion. Individuals of P. h. hispanica both run and climb faster than those of P. h. atrata. There is no difference between subspecies in ability to cling onto tilted substrates. Predictions on the morphology of both subspecies, inspired by biomechanical arguments, are not supported by our measurements.
Van Damme, R. & Aerts, P. & Vanhooydonck, B. (1998) -
Locomotor behaviour varies between two subspecies of the Spanish wall lizard Podarcis hispanica. One subspecies inhabits the Columbretes islands, the other lives on the Spanish mainland. Size standardized voluntary speeds (as measured in unrestrained laboratory conditions) are lower in the island population (P. h. atrata) than in the mainland population (P. h. hispanica). Maximal running performance (when chased) is much higher in the mainland population than in the island population. High speed video recordings show that subspecies differ in gait characteristics: individuals from the mainland modulate running velocity primarily by modifying stride length, individuals from the island primarily by altering stride frequency. P. h. hispanica’s strategy for modulating speed probably allows this mainland subspecies to attain higher maximal speeds than the island subspecies P. h. atrata. Theoretical considerations suggest that at high speeds, P. h. hispanica’s running style is energetically more favourable, but this hypothesis awaits experimental verification. We suggest that the differencesin locomotion efficiency between the subspecies result from differences in predation pressure between the mainland and the island. The mainland study site has a higher predator diversity and offers less hiding opportunities to the lizards.
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Braña, F. & Verheyen, R.F. (1992) -
Effects of incubation temperature on embryo survival, incubation duration, hatchling size, post-hatching growth, and sprint speed were studied in the lizard Podarcis muralis. Embryos incubated at 32 C and 35 C hatched about 10 days before those of 28 C and over 5 wk before those of 24 C. Hatching success was high at 24 C and 28 C but much lower at higher temperatures (32 C and 35 C). Neonates incubated at low temperatures had larger snout-vent lengths and body masses (effects of egg mass removed), grew faster, and had higher sprint speeds (size effects removed) than hatchlings incubated at higher temperatures. Hence, incubation temperatures that accelerate embryo development (32-35 C) did not maximize embryo survival and hatchling characteristics. In this study, an incubation temperature of 28 C provided the best balance between developmental rate, hatching success, and posthatch performances.
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Castilla, A.M. & Verheyen, R.F. (1987) -
Seasonal patterns of body temperatures and thermoregulatory behavior were studied in the temperate zone lizard Lacerta vivipara. Monthly mean body temperatures of free-ranging lizards varied seasonally. Body temperatures were positively correlated with corresponding mean air temperatures but were most elevated above ambient temperatures during the cool early spring months. In early spring, body temperatures recorded in the field were considerably lower than those that the animals maintained in a laboratory thermal gradient (selected temperatures). During the colder months, the time of activity was restricted, and lizards increased basking frequency and actively sought warmer microhabitats. A biophysical model was used to calculate equilibrium temperatures that a lizard could achieve by maximizing, respectively minimizing, its heat gain under the prevailing environmental conditions. Estimates of the `maximal operative temperature` demonstrate that environmental conditions often forced lizards from their selected temperatures during the cooler months. Calculated `minimal operative temperatures` seldom approached selected temperatures. Lizards regulated body temperatures near selected levels, or if these could not be achieved for physical reasons, they regulated near maximal operative temperatures. During the coolest periods, activity was highest in adult males. We suggest that a main benefit of thermoregulation under these suboptimal conditions may be the maximization of mating success, through an increase of the rate of sperm development.
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Castilla, A.M. & Verheyen, R.F. (1989) -
We studied, in the field and laboratory, aspects of the thermal biology in two populations of the lizard Podarcis tiliguerta along a 1450 m altitudinal gradient. Body temperatures (Tb) at high altitudes average lower, are more variable, but are more elevated above environmental temperatures than at sea level. Lizards partially reduced the impact of altitudinal changes in thermal loads through presumable subtle behavioural adjustments. A comparison of the thermal preferences in the laboratory, the maximal operative temperatures predicted from a biophysical model, and the activity Tb`s at both sites, indicates that the main response to changing environmental conditions is an active shift in thermoregulatory set points. Integration of field Tb`s and laboratory data on temperature specific sprint speeds, predicts that the mountainous lizards experience reduced running abilities that are especially acute in the early morning. Despite this impairment of running performance, the thermal sensitivity of running speed has not evolved to match the Tb`s experienced by both populations. This result supports the view that the thermal physiology of this lizard is evolutionarily conservative, but the lack of information on the relation between running performance and fitness components impedes rejection of alternative hypotheses.
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Castilla, A.M. & Verheyen, R.F. (1990) -
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Vanderstighelen, D. & Thoen, C. & Verheyen, R.F. (1995) -
The ability to recognize chemical cues from predatory snakes is congenital in the common lizard Lacerta vivipara. This conclusion follows from a series of experiments in which we observed the behavior of naive lab-born lizards in terraria that had previously been inhabited by predatory snakes. Chemicals from both the viper Vipera berus (a sympatric predator) and the smooth snake Coronella austriaca (an allopatric saurophagic snake) elicited a sharp increase in tongue-flick rates. The lizards, when confronted with snake chemicals, exhibited an increased number of foot shakes, tail vibrations and starts, and moved about in a strange, jerky way. In these aspects, the behavioral response of juvenile lizards resembled that of adults. The only quantitative age-related difference concerned thermoregularoty behavior: whereas juveniles refrained almost completely from basking in the presence of snake chemicals, adult lizards basked equally long in snake and control experiments.
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Vanderstighelen, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1990) -
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1986) -
1.|Selected body temperatures (SBT) of adult male, female and subadult Lacerta vivipara from a Belgian population, were measured monthly in a laboratory thermogradient. 2.|Monthly mean SBTs varied between 29.9 and 34.0°C and differed significantly among months in all three lizard groups, and among lizard groups in 4 out of 6 months. 3.|Evidence for a positive relationship between monthly SBT and air temperature was found in the subadults, but not in the adult lizards. 4.|Monthly mean SBTs measured in this study were consistently higher (mean difference = 2.0°C) than those obtained by Patterson and Davies (1978) in a similar study on Lacerta vivipara from southern England.
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1987) -
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1989) -
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1990) -
Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. & Verheyen, R.F. (1991) -
Although the effects of temperature on ectotherm physiology have been generally recognized, consequences for animal performance in the field have seldom been assessed. We experimentally investigated the thermal dependence within the body temperature range 20-35⚬C, of distinct behavioural and physiological functions related to feeding (sprint speed, prey-catching rate, prey-handling rate, gut-passage rate, voluntary food intake, mass change) in the lizard Lacerta vivipara Jacquin. All functions examined were strongly dependent on body temperature (Tb); their rate generally increased rapidly within the range 20-30⚬C and then levelled. Exceptions were gut-passage rate and the amount of weight change, which exhibited a decline at 35⚬C. Some small but consistent differences in thermal sensitivities between performance functions were evident. Gut-passage rate and weight change were maximal at Tb ≈ 30⚬C, which is slightly lower than the optimal temperature of the other functions (32-34⚬C). Passage rate had the widest, whereas prey-catching rate and weight change had the narrowest 80% thermal performance breadth. These results indicate that no single Tb maximizes all behavioural and physiological processes and therefore supports the `multiple optima` hypothesis. We predicted performance levels in the field by integrating results of the thermal sensitivity experiments with data on Tbs of field-active L. vivipara. Lizards seem to be able to achieve >80% of their maximum capacity for most of the time, at least during sunny weather. Under cloudy/variable conditions, when lizards suffer impaired possibilities to thermoregulate, performance levels were reduced. This depression is less accentuated for gut-throughput rate and weight change. We discuss our results in the context of the overall thermal biology of this cool-climate lizard.
Van Damme, R. & Castilla, A.M. (1996) -
We compared the behavior of two subspecies ofPodarcis hispanica lizards in cages that had been chemically marked by a saurophagous snake, the viperVipera latastei. One of the subspecies (P.h. atrata) has experienced a relaxation from predation pressure by this viper, as snakes were eradicated from the island it inhabits over 100 years ago. Nevertheless, individuals fromP.h. atrata responded to the snake`s chemicals similarly to individuals from a population ofP.h. hispanica, currently sympatric withV. latastei. Lizards exhibited more stress-indicating behaviors (foot shakes, tail vibrations, sudden starts), became less mobile, and tongue-flicked more while moving in a snake-inhabited terrarium than when in a clean, unfamiliar terrarium.
Van Damme, R. & Quick, K. (2001) -
Three species of lacertid lizards (Lacerta bedriagae, Podarcis tiliguerta, and Podarcis sicula) are able to detect the former presence of the saurophagous snake Coluber viridiflavus by tongue flicking. Lizards tongue flicked more in cages previously inhabited by the predatory snake than in clean cages or in cages treated with eau-de-cologne. They also exhibited behavioral acts typically associated with stressful situations (foot shakes, tail vibrations, starts) more frequently when predator chemicals are present. Individuals from the two Podarcis species that came from populations syntopic with C. viridifiavus were also able to distinguish between chemical cues from this saurophagous predator and a nonsaurophagous snake (Natrix maura). In these lizards, the former presence of N. maura did not elicit higher tongue-flick rates or stress-indicating behaviors. In contrast, individuals of Lacerta bedriagae collected from a snake-free area increased tongue-flick rate and frequency of stress-related behavior in response to chemicals of both snakes, suggesting that prior contact is not required for chemosensory recognition of snakes in this species but may facilitate the distinction between different species of snakes. The presence of predator (C. viridiflavus) chemical cues induces a shift in the microhabitat use of the lizard species studied. In a large terrarium containing various substrates, lizards chose different types of microhabitats when chemical cues of C. viridiflavus were present than when absent and avoided the side of the terrarium labeled with the chemicals.
Van Damme, R. & Vanderstighelen, D. & Verheyen, R. (1987) -
Van Damme, R. & Vanhooydonck, B. (2002) -
We tested the hypothesis that the number of presacral vertebrae in lacertid lizards has evolved to meet requirements set by the structural habitat. The idea was that lizards from cluttered habitats (densely vegetated areas, stony walls and hills, rocks) would be aided by a flexible backbone with many vertebrate, ensuring manoeuvrability, whereas lizards from open habitats would require stiffer vertebrate columns, with relatively few vertebrae, favouring speed and acceleration capacity. In contrast to earlier endings in fishes and snakes, evolution of vertebral number and body size was uncorrelated in lacertid lizards. Body size also did not differ between structural habitat types (open areas, densely vegetated areas, vertical elements). Traditional analysis of variance suggests strong differences in vertebral counts between species from open areas and cluttered areas, the latter having higher numbers of presacral vertebrae. When adequate phylogenetic analyses are used, differences remain significant although the level of significance is considerably lower. Tests of the mechanistic relationships between vertebral number, bending ability, and manoeuvrability, and assessment of the relative importance of manoeuvrability and speed in habitats with varying degrees of impediment are needed to reveal the evolutionary path that has led to the differences in vertebral number.
Van Damme, R. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Hoek, M. & Aerts, A. (1998) -
Van Damme, R. & Verheyen, R. (1987) -
Van Damme, R. & Wijnrocx, K. & Boeye, J. & Huyghe, K. & Van Dongen, S. (2015) -
Digit length ratio (primarily 2D:4D) has become increasingly popular as a possible biomarker of intrauterine steroid exposure in the human medical, social and psychological literature. Human males tend to have lower digit ratios than females, and individuals with low ratios tend to excel in physical performance, especially in endurance-related sports. Because early limb development is evolutionarily conservative, it has been speculated that these trends should also be visible in other tetrapod vertebrates. However, studies on non-human vertebrates are scant, and their results suggest that sexual dimorphism in digit ratios and the associations with physical performance are much more intricate and taxon-specific than presumed. In this study, we compared digit ratios of two Podarcis lizards among sexes, colour morphs and species. We also tested for associations with three performance characteristics that are of ecological relevance. Both species examined exhibit male-larger sexual dimorphism in digit ratio. 2D:4D, 3D:4D and 2D:3D ratios are tightly correlated within the manus and the pes, but less so between manus and pes. In the colour polymorphic species P. melisellensis, the yellow morph exhibits higher dimorphism than the orange and white morphs. Digit ratios did not correlate with individual performance for sprint speed or endurance, but within males of P. melisellensis, individuals with higher digit ratios correlated positively with head size and bite force. We conclude that digit ratios in lizards deserve attention, because they exhibit sexual dimorphism and correlate with ecologically relevant morphological and performance variables. As lizard species differ widely in mating systems, reproductive mode, habitat use and locomotor behaviour, they seem excellent model animals for studying patterns in digit length ratios.
van der Vliet, F. (1994) -
Van der Vliet, F. (1994) -
van Erve, F. (2008) -
Vancea, S. (1958) -
Vancea, S. & Fuhn, J.E. (1959) -
Vandevelde, F. (1955) -
Vanhooydonck, B. (2001) -
Vanhooydonck, B. (2010) -
The staggering phenotypic variation among organisms and the striking fit between an organism`s morphology and its environment have fascinated naturalists for centuries. Darwin`s publication of `On the origin of species` was the first to offer an explanation for the apparently perfect form-function relationship. During the past century overly enthousiastic evolutionary biologists interpreted any direct link between an organism`s morphology and ecology as evidence for the theory of evolution by natural selection. However, for morphological variation to be considered adaptive it is necessary to explicitly test how this variation translates into the variation in ecologically relevant performance traits, which in turn translates into ecological (and fitness) variation. Nowadays, performance- based ecomorphological approaches are typically used to test the adaptive nature of phenotypic variation in order to provide a better understanding of the selective pressures operating on organisms. Using an ecomorphological approach, lacertid lizards have been used extensively to test whether and how they are adapted to their environment. The majority of these studies have mainly included European species, leaving African species underrepresented. This is suprising from an evolutionary viewpoint. Compared to European lacertids, African lacertid lizard clades are older and more speciose. Also, lacertid lizard communities on the African continent are more complex than the ones in Europe (i.e. comprising 7-8 species versus 2-3 species). In this talk, we will focus on the phenotypic divergence among African clades and the link with the variation in performance and ecology, and explicitly compare these results to results on European lacertids.
Vanhooydonck, B. & Herrel, A. & Van Damme, R. (2007) -
Vanhooydonck, B. & James, R.S. & Tallis, J. & Aerts, P. & Tadic, Z. & Tolley, K.A. & Measey, G.J. & Herrel, A. (2014) -
Trade-offs arise when two functional traits impose conflicting demands on the same design trait. Consequently, excellence in one comes at the cost of performance in the other. One of the most widely studied performance trade-offs is the one between sprint speed and endurance.Although biochemical, physiological and (bio)mechanical correlates of either locomotor trait conflict with each other, results at the whole-organism level are mixed. Here, we test whether burst (speed, acceleration) and sustained locomotion (stamina) trade off at both the isolated muscle and whole-organism level among 17 species of lacertid lizards. In addition,we test for a mechanical link between the organismal and muscular (power output, fatigue resistance) performance traits. We find weak evidence for a trade-off between burst and sustained locomotion at the whole-organism level; however, there is a significant trade-off between muscle power output and fatigue resistance in the isolated muscle level. Variation in whole-animal sprint speed can be convincingly explained by variation in muscular power output. The variation in locomotor stamina at the whole-organism level does not relate to the variation in muscle fatigue resistance, suggesting that whole-organism stamina depends not only on muscle contractile performance but probably also on the performance of the circulatory and respiratory systems.
Vanhooydonck, B. & Measey, J. & Edwards, S. & Makhubo, B. & Tolley, K.A. & Herrel, A. (2015) -
Locomotion is important to animals because it has direct implications for fitness through its role in predator escape, prey capture, and territory defence. Despite significant advances in our understanding of animal locomotion, studies exploring how substrate properties affect locomotor performance remain scant. In the present study, we explore how variation in substrate (sand, slate, cork) affects locomotor performance in lacertid lizards that differ in morphology. Moreover, we explore whether substrate effects are the same for different types of locomotor performance (speed, acceleration, and stamina). Our results show that the substrate affected most types of locomotor performance studied but not always in the same way. Although substrate effects were species-dependent for the maximal speed over 50 cm and the distance run to exhaustion, this was not the case for acceleration capacity. These results suggest that substrate texture differentially affects burst performance vs. longer duration measures of locomotor performance. Finally, straightforward relationships between habitat use and the substrate on which performance was maximized were not observed. This suggests that the evolution of locomotor capacity is complex and that animals may show compromise phenotypes allowing them to deal with a variety of substrates in their natural environment.
Vanhooydonck, B. & Meulepas, G. & Herrel, A. & Aerts, P. (2008) -
Although the capacity to glide has evolved independently several times within lizards, only one lacertid lizard, Holaspis guentheri, has been observed using this type of locomotion to move from tree to tree. Here, we first test whether H. guentheri can be regarded a true glider/parachuter. We do so by quantifying gliding performance (i.e. velocity, glide distance and duration) and compare it to the performance of a typical gliding gecko, Ptychozoon kuhli, and a non-gliding lacertid, Podarcis muralis. Second, we investigate how H. guentheri glides by quantifying several biomechanical factors (i.e. angle of attack, lift and drag coefficient). Although H. guentheri is as able to parachute as P. kuhli, it uses a different strategy to do so. Whereas the lacertid lizard generates more drag, the gecko generates more lift. In addition, the drag-based parachuting in H. guentheri results in a reduction of the velocity at landing; by using a lift-based strategy P. kuhli is able to cover greater distances.
Vanhooydonck, B. & Meulepas, G. & Herrel, A. & Boistel, R. & Tafforeau, P. & Fernandez, V. & Aerts, P. (2009) -
Controlled aerial descent has evolved at least 30 times independently in different vertebrate and invertebrate lineages. A whole suite of morphological modifications, such as patagia, lateral skin folds and webbed feet, have been suggested to enhance descending ability. In this study, we compare aerial performance (i.e. vertical and horizontal velocity, horizontal distance covered, duration of descent) and morphology (body mass, body width, inter limb distance, surface area and wing loading) among three species of lizards, representing a range of aerial descenders present within the clade. Our performance measurements show that the lacertid Holaspis guentheri performs intermediately to the specialized gekkonid Ptychozoon kuhli and the rock-dwelling lizard Podarcis muralis. The small relative body mass of H. guentheri results in a low wing loading similar to that of P. kuhli thus enhancing its aerial performance. Whereas the latter generates great lift forces and is able to cover great horizontal distances, H. guentheri’s low wing loading seems to be responsible for a slow descent and low impact forces upon landing. Our results show that very small morphological changes may result in noticeable and ecologically relevant changes in performance.
Vanhooydonck, B. & Van Damme, R. (2001) -
We tested the hypothesis that an evolutionary trade-off exists between the capacity to run on level terrain and the ability to climb inclined structures in lacertid lizards. Biomechanical and physiological models of lizard locomotor performance suggest that the morphological design requirements of a ground-dwelling vs. scansorial life style are difficult to reconcile. This conflict is thought to preclude simultaneous evolution of maximal locomotor performance on level and inclined terrain. This notion has been corroborated by comparative studies on lizard species from other groups (Anolis, Chamaeleo, Sceloporus), but is not supported by our data on 13 species from the family Lacertidae. We found no indication of a negative association between maximal sprint speed of lizards over a level racetrack (indicative of ground-dwelling locomotor performance), on an inclined stony surface (indicative of climbing performance over rock faces) and inclined mesh surface (indicative of clambering performance among vegetation). Moreover, morphological characteristics associated with fast sprinting capacities (e.g. long hind limbs) apparently enhance, rather than hinder climbing and clambering performance. We conclude that in our sample of lacertid lizards, the evolution of fast sprinting capacity on level terrain has not inflicted major restrictions on climbing and clambering performance.
Vanhooydonck, B. & van Damme, R. (1999) -
The aim of this study was to determine if divergence in habitat use among lacertid lizards is paralleled by morphological differentiation. For 35 lacertid species, we measured body, head and limb dimensions. Habitat use was inferred from the literature: ground-dwelling on open terrain, ground-dwelling in vegetated areas, shrub-climbing, tree-climbing, saxicolous (i.e. rock-climbing). Traditional (i.e. non-phylogenetic) statistical analyses suggest morphological differences among species groups with different habitat use. Ground-dwelling species from open habitats tend to have longer femurs, tibiae and humeri (relative to body length) than other groups. Cursorial (i.e. level-running) species have relatively high heads and trunks compared to climbing species. These differences follow biomechanical predictions and it is tempting to consider tham as adaptations to habitat use. However, phylogenetic analyses of the data fail to establish a clear relationship between habitat use and morphology in the data set considered. There is a weak indication that the differences in head and trunk height have evolved as an adaptation to different habitat use, but the differences in relative limb dimensions among species groups with different habitat use vanish. Either adaptation of limb dimensions to habitat use has not occurred in lacertid lizards, or our methods are unable to demonstrate such an adaptation. We show that uncertainties in the topology of the phylogenetic tree used are unlikely to influence the outcome of our study. We also address the fact that habitat use is often similar in different branches of the phylogenetic tree, and the consequences this may have for the power of our statistical analyses.
Vanhooydonck, B. & Van Damme, R. (2003) -
Microhabitat use and antipredator behaviour (i.e. behavioural response to a bird model and refuge microhabitat) was measured in an experimental set-up for 11 lacertid lizard species. Additionally, locomotor performance (sprint speed, climbing and clambering speed, manoeuvrability and endurance) of the same species was quantified. The results showed considerable interspecific variation in microhabitat use, behavioural response and choice of refuge microhabitat. Part of that variation could be linked to differences in locomotor capacity. Species that frequently made use of open microhabitats tended to be fast sprinters, but had limited endurance. The behavioural data suggest these species will not start running before the predator is close at hand, and thus having high sprint capacities might be more beneficial than great endurance. Species that spent most of their time on vertical elements appeared to be fast climbers. As such microhabitats tend to be quite exposed, lizards living there are conspicuous to predators and being able to escape fast seems relevant. Contrary to our expectations, species mostly observed in the vegetated microhabitats did not excel in clambering capacity or manoeuvrability. Possibly, dense vegetation constitutes a safe harbour and species may no longer be under selection for locomotor speed. Behavioural response when confronted with an aerial predator was context-dependent in most species: most lizards fled more when in open or vertical microhabitats than when in densely vegetated ones. Moreover, when fleeing most species sought refuge in the vegetation. These findings support our idea that vegetated patches may constitute a safe harbour for lacertids.
Vanhooydonck, B. & Van Damme, R. & Aerts, P. (2000) -
1. Morphological features (i.e. snout–vent length, SVL, mass and limb parameters), locomotor performance (sprint speed, climbing speed, manoeuvrability and endurance) and microhabitat use were measured in three lacertid lizard species. Additionally, microhabitat preference was tested in the laboratory with species kept apart and in combination with each other to assess mutual interference. 2. It was predicted that each species possesses morphological adaptations that allow it to excel in those performance measures relevant in its particular microhabitat. 3. The three species differed in microhabitat use. Lacerta bedriagae was mostly seen on boulders, while Podarcis sicula occurred among vegetation. Podarcis tiliguerta seemed more general in its microhabitat use. The results from the microhabitat preference in the laboratory corresponded well to these field observations. 4. Besides differing in SVL, the three species differed in limb length and diameter, and body mass (all relative to SVL). L. bedriagae has long forelimbs, short hindlimbs and a high body mass, while P. sicula has short forelimbs, long hindlimbs and a low body mass. P. tiliguerta is morphologically intermediate. 5. The differences found in morphology translated partially into performance differences. Only climbing speed and endurance differed among species. L. bedriagae excelled in both cases. Considering its microhabitat use, this seemed adaptive. 6. Unexpectedly, the interference experiments suggested that L. bedriagae is the least competitive of the three species.
Vanhooydonck, B. & Van Damme, R. & Aerts, P. (2001) -
Morphological and physiological considerations suggest that sprinting ability and endurance capacity put conflicting demands on the design of an animal`s locomotor apparatus and therefore cannot be maximized simultaneously. To test this hypothesis, we correlated size-corrected maximal sprint speed and stamina of 12 species of lacertid lizards. Phylogenetically independent contrasts of sprint speed and stamina showed a significant negative relationship, giving support to the idea of an evolutionary trade-off between the two performance measures. To test the hypothesis that the trade-off is mediated by a conflict in morphological requirements, we correlated both performance traits with snout-vent length, size-corrected estimates of body mass and limb length, and relative hindlimb length (the residuals of the relationship between hind- and forelimb length). Fast-running species had hindlimbs that were long compared to their forelimbs. None of the other size or shape variables showed a significant relationship with speed or endurance. We conclude that the evolution of sprint capacity may be constrained by the need for endurance capacity and vice versa, but the design conflict underlying this trade-off has yet to be identified.
Vanhooydonck, B. & Van Damme, R. & Aerts, P. & Verheyen, R.F. (1998) -
Vanhooydonck, B. & Van Damme, R. & Dooren, T.J. van & Bauwens, A.D. (2001) -
To understand the evolution of biological traits, information on the degree and origins of intraspecific variation is essential. Because adaptation can take place only if the trait shows heritable variation, it is important to know whether (at least) part of the trait variation is genetically based. We describe intra- and interindividual variation in three performance measures (sprint speed, climbing, and clambering speed) in juvenile Gallotia galloti lizards from three populations and examine how genetic, environmental (incubation temperature), and ontogenetic (age, size) effects interact to cause performance variation. Moreover, we test whether the three performance traits are intercorrelated phenotypically and genetically. Sprint speed is highest in juveniles incubated at the lowest temperature (26 degrees C) irrespective of population. Climbing speed differs among populations, and the differences persist at least until the lizards are 30 wk old. This suggests that the three populations experience different selective pressures. Moreover, mass, snout-vent length, and hindlimb length seem to affect climbing performance differently in the three populations. The variation in sprinting and climbing ability appears to be genetically based. Moreover, the two performance traits are intercorrelated and thus will not evolve independently from each other. Clambering speed (i.e., capacity to climb up an inclined mesh) varies among individuals, but the origin of this variation remains obscure.
Vanlaue, L. (2017) -
Many heathlands in Europe nowadays are degraded and need management to be restored to their former glory. One of the management options applied a lot on heathlands is grazing by large herbivores like sheep, cattle or horses, to avoid natural succession into forest. Grazing will not only stop the encroachment of grasses, it will rejuvenate the heather and keep the heathland open. Next to effecting the vegetation, it impacts the fauna of the heathland on many different ways. Light grazing increases habitat diversity of which many species can benefit. Grazing might impact fauna both in a direct and indirect way. Loss of structure in the vegetation and a changed microclimate will impact fauna directly, as does disturbance and trampling by large herbivores. Prey availability might be reduced because of excessive grazing and this will impact their predators indirectly. Species respond differently to grazing depending on their ecology and particular adaptations. For reptiles both positive and negative responses have been recorded. In this internship I participated in the monitoring of the Common lizard (Zootoca vivipara) in the nature reserve Grenspark De Zoom – Kalmthoutse Heide. Lizards were counted along different transect lines spread out over the area. The different transects were placed in sites with different grazing regimes, ranging from no grazing at all to very intensive grazing. The resulting data was then used to calculate the density of the lizard populations in each of the sites. In the short period of this internship only 15 lizards were encountered. This data was not enough to make reliable density estimates but could uncover some trends. Most individuals were found in the control sites and least in the sites with intensive grazing which might suggest some deleterious effect of grazing. The common lizard shows a decreasing trend both in the Netherlands as in Belgium, though the reasons for this decline are still uncertain. Precautionary principle would advise a review of the management plan of this large heathland area to minimise the impact grazing has on this particular species. The Common lizard and certain other heathland species will benefit more from extensive and low intensity grazing.
Vanni, S. (2001) -
Vanni, S. & Lanza, B. (1982) -
Salamandra salamandra gigliolii Eiselt & Lanza, 1956 is reported with certainty for the first time in Central Tuscany (Chianti Mountains, Florence and Castelnuovo di Val de Cecina, Pisa). Triturus alpestris apuanus (Bonaparte, 1839), previously reported by Lanza (1977) in Lucolena (Greve in Chianti, Florence), is confirmed in this and two other localities of Chianti Mountains (vicinity of Lamole, Flornce and of Badia di Coltibuono, Siena). It also inhabits the small lake at Eremo di Camaldoli (Arezzo; 43°48´23”N – 11°49´11”E), making this the southernmost record of this species for the Apennine main chain. The three southernmost localities for Triturus vulgaris meridionalis (Boulenger, 1882) are Lago d´Averno (40°50´ N – 14!04´ E), Lageo di Patria (40°56´ N – 14°02´ E) [Bruno (1973b)] and Cicciano (40°58´ N – 14°32` E), 35 km NE of Naples. Rana catesbeiana Shaw, 1802 has surely acclimatized in the plain between Florence and Pistoia, as proved by the recent discovery of tadpoles and juveniles. Rana latastei Boulenger, 1879, cited by Capula (1980) as new to the Emilian plain, had been reported by Del Prato (1899) in the Emilian localities of Borgo Val di Taro and San Vitale de Baganza (Parma). While the species from Borgo Val di Taro could instead be Rana graeca Boulenger, 1891, the same is not true for this from San Vitale di Baganza, which is also mentioned by Pozzi (1980). Phyllodactylus europaeus Gené, 1839 occurs at «Multaragna», on the SW slope of Monte Limbara (Sardinia; about 980 m a.s.l.), the highest confirmed locality for this species, which is also reported for the first time in Ruia Island, N of Cape Comino (SE Sardinia). Also given are additions and corrections to the data reported on this geckonid by Vanni & Lanza (1978). Both Podarcis sicula caporiaccoi (Taddei, 1949) from Capraia Island (Tuscan Archipelago) and Podarcis sicula cettii (Cara, 1872) from Tavolara Island (SE Sardinia) exhibit a rare definite presence of the phenotype “concolor”. A description is given of Podarcis sicula (Rafinesque, 1810) from La Praiola Islet, located directly W of Capraia Island (Tuscan Archipelago), it can be referred to Podarcis sicula caporiaccoi (Taddei, 1949) despite the fact that it differs slightly from the population of the type locality. Coronella girondica Daudin, 1803 is reported for the first time in Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Chialina, near Ovaro, in the province of Udine), making this the easternmost record of this species in continental Italy. Vipera aspis heinzdischeki Sochurek, 1879 (type locality: Monte del Papa, near Lagonegro, in Basilicata) is considered as synonymous of Vipera aspis hugyi Schinz, 1833.
Vanni, S. & Nistri, A. (1998) -
Vanni, S. & Nistri, A. & Cianfanelli, S. (2022) -
A case of cannibalism in the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) (Reptilia Squamata Lacertidae). A presumed case of cannibalism in Common wall lizard Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) is reported; the case was observed in the SSW outskirts of Florence (Central Italy) in October 2019.
Varano, L. & Della Corte, F. & Galgano, M. (1969) -
Varano, L. & Della Corte, F. & Galgano, M. (1973) -
Varano, L. & Laforgia, V. (1976) -
Varano, L. & Laforgia, V. & D`Uva, V. & Ciarcia, G. & Ciarletta, A. (1978) -
In order to study the possible functional relationship between the adrenal gland and the subcommissural organ (SCO) in the lizard Lacerta s. sicula Raf., ACTH was administered to some specimens of this species in January when both the adrenal gland and the subcommissural organ have a very low activity. In comparison to untreated controls, the adrenals of animals treated with ACTH showed clear signs of stimulation, presenting enlarged blood vessels, very few lipid droplets, numerous polymorphic mitochondria and abundant tubular smooth endoplasmic reticulum. In addition, a distinct increase in secretory material was observed in the subcommissural cells of specimens treated with ACTH. These cells showed large cisternae of the rough endoplasmic reticulum filled with granular material in the basal region, numerous secretory granules of two types in the apical region and a reduced number of microvilli on the free cell surface. These findings, together with the results of preceding studies, lead the authors to the consideration that steroid hormones might play a role in the regulation of the secretory activity of the SCO.
Varano, L. & Laforgia, V. & Putti, R. & Cavagnuolo, A. & Capaldo, A.R. (1984) -
Varma, M.G.R & Burgess, M. (1966) -
Vasconcelos, D.S. & Harris, D.J. & Damas-Moreira, I. & Pereira, A. & Xavier, R. (2022) -
Host-gut microbiota interactions are complex and can have a profound impact on the ecology and evolution of both counterparts. Several host traits such as systematics, diet and social behavior, and external factors such as prey availability and local environment are known to influence the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota. In this study, we investigate the influence of systematics, sex, host size, and locality/habitat on gut microbiota diversity in five lizard species from two different sites in Portugal: Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis lusitanicus, living in syntopy in a rural area in northern Portugal (Moledo); the invasive Podarcis siculus and the native Podarcis virescens, living in sympatry in urbanized environment (Lisbon); and the invasive Teira dugesii also living in an urban area (Lisbon). We also infer the potential microbial transmission occurring between species living in sympatry and syntopy. To accomplish these goals, we use a metabarcoding approach to characterize the bacterial communities from the cloaca of lizards, sequencing the V4 region of the 16S rRNA. Habitat/locality was an important factor explaining differences in gut bacterial composition and structure, with species from urbanized environments having higher bacterial diversity. Host systematics (i.e. species) influenced gut bacterial community structure only in lizards from the urbanized environment. We also detected a significant positive correlation between lizard size and gut bacterial alpha-diversity in the invasive species P. siculus, which could be due to its higher exploratory behavior. Moreover, estimates of bacterial transmission indicate that P. siculus may have acquired a high proportion of local microbiota after its introduction. These findings confirm that a diverse array of host and environmental factors can influence lizards gut microbiota.
Host-gut microbiota interactions are complex and can have a profound impact on the ecology and evolution of both counterparts. Several host traits such as taxonomy, diet and social behavior, and external factors such as prey availability and local environment are known to influence the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota. In this study, we investigated the influence of taxonomy, sex, host size, locality/habitat on gut microbiota diversity in five lizard species from two different sites in Portugal. We also analyzed the potential levels of microbial transmission between species that live in sympatry and syntopy. We studied Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis lusitanicus from northern Portugal (Moledo); and two invasive species, Podarcis siculus and Teira dugesii, and the native Podarcis virescens from Lisbon. We used a metabarcoding approach to characterize the bacterial communities from the cloaca of lizards, sequencing the V4 region of the 16S rRNA. Habitat/locality was found to be the main driver of the differences in composition and structure of gut bacterial communities of the studied lizards, with host effects more evident at finer taxonomic scales. Additionally, lizards from urbanized environments had higher microbiome diversity than lizards from rural areas. We detected a significant positive correlation between size and gut bacterial alpha-diversity in the invasive species P. siculus, which could be due to higher exploratory behaviours. Moreover, estimates of bacterial transmission indicate that P. siculus may have acquired a high proportion of local microbiota. These findings indicate that a diverse array of host and environmental factors can influence lizards gut microbiota.
Vasconcelos, R. & Harris, D.J. & Carretero, M.A. & Pinho, C. & Corti, C. & Capula, M. & Bassu, L. & Spano, G. & Delauguerre, M. (2006) -
Podarcis tiliguerta, a Wall Lizard endemic to Corsica and Sardinia, has recently been shown to harbour highly genetically distinct mitochondrial lineages, that may indicater it is in fact a species complex. Here we combine 12S rRNA mtDNA sequences from previous studies with 17 newly generated sequences to better understand genetic diversity within this group. In particular we include samüples from the Cerbicale islands, which were quite distinct in an earlier assessment of protein electrophoretic variation. Results confirm that distinct lineages exist on Corsica and Sardinia. The Cerbicale islands appear as part of the Corsican group. A third lineage exists, although at present it is known only from a single specimen from Sardinia. Further morphological and molecular data is needed to revise the taxonomy of this apparent species complex.
Podarcis tiliguerta, a Wall Lizard endemic to Corsica and Sardinia, has recently been shown to harbour highly genetically distinct mitochondrial lineages, that may indicate it is in fact a species complex. Here we combine 12S rRNA mtDNA sequences from previous studies with 17 newly gener- ated sequences to better understand genetic diversity within this group. In particular we include samples from the Cerbicale islands, which were quite distinct in an earlier assessment of protein electrophoretic variation. Results confirm that distinct lineages exist on Corsica and Sardinia. The Cerbicale islands appear as part of the Corsican group. A third lineage exists, although at present it is known only from a single specimen from Sardinia. Further morphological and molecular data is needed to revise the taxonomy of this apparent species complex.
Vasconcelos, R. & Larbes, S. & Rebelo, H. & Carretero, M.A. & Harris, D.J. & Brito, J.C. (2006) -
Vasconcelos, R. & Montero-Mendieta, S. & Simó-Riudalbas, M. & Sindaco, R. & Santos, X. & Fasola, M. & Llorente, G. & Razzetti, E. & Carranza, S. (2016) -
Few DNA barcoding studies of squamate reptiles have been conducted. Due to the significance of the Socotra Archipelago (a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site and a biodiversity hotspot) and the conservation interest of its reptile fauna (94% endemics), we performed the most comprehensive DNA barcoding study on an island group to date to test its applicability to specimen identification and species discovery. Reptiles constitute Socotra`s most important vertebrate fauna, yet their taxonomy remains under-studied. We successfully DNA-barcoded 380 individuals of all 31 presently recognized species. The specimen identification success rate is moderate to high, and almost all species presented local barcoding gaps. The unexpected high levels of intra-specific variability found within some species suggest cryptic diversity. Species richness may be under-estimated by 13.8-54.4%. This has implications in the species` ranges and conservation status that should be considered for conservation planning. Other phylogenetic studies using mitochondrial and nuclear markers are congruent with our results. We conclude that, despite its reduced length (663 base pairs), cytochrome c oxidase 1, COI, is very useful for specimen identification and for detecting intra-specific diversity, and has a good phylogenetic signal. We recommend DNA barcoding to be applied to other biodiversity hotspots for quickly and cost-efficiently flagging species discovery, preferentially incorporated into an integrative taxonomic framework.
Vashetko, E.V. (1972) -
Vashetko, E.V. & Chikin, Yu.A. & Khodzhaev, A.F. & Nuridzhanov, A.S. (2003) -
An analysis of literature, reports, collections and the authors` data on the distri- bution of amphibians and reptiles in the Western Tian Shan (Uzbekistan) has been made. The list consists of nineteen reptile and two amphibian species. Distribution maps of the records are presented. Inhabiting in this territory of some more species is expected.
Вашетко Э.В., Чикин Ю.А., Ходжаев А.Ф., Нуриджанов А.С. (2003) -
Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Donihue, C.M. & Herrel, A. & Pafilis, P. & Bongers, A. & Goyens, J. & Damme, R. vn & Aerts, P. (2018) -
Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Goyens, J. & Baeckens, S. & Damme, R. van & Aerts, P. (2019) -
The vestibular system is crucial for movement control during locomotion. As the dimensions of the vestibular system determine the fluid dynamics of the endolymph and, as such, the system`s function, we investigate the interaction between vestibular system size, head size and microhabitat use in lizards. We grouped 24 lacertid species in three microhabitat types, we acquired three‐dimensional models of the bony vestibular systems using micro‐computer tomography scanning, and we performed linear and surface measurements. All vestibular measurements scale with a negative allometry with head size, suggesting that smaller heads house disproportionally large ears. As the sensitivity of the vestibular system is positively related to size, a sufficiently large vestibular system in small‐headed animals may meet the sensitivity demands during challenged locomotion. We also found that the microhabitat affects the locomotor dynamics: lizards inhabiting open microhabitats run at higher dimensionless speeds. On the other hand, no statistical relationship exists between dimensionless speed and the vestibular system dimensions. Hence, if the vestibular size would differ between microhabitats, this would be a direct effect (i.e. imposed, for instance, by requirements for manoeuvring, balance control, etc.), rather than depending on the lizards’ intrinsic running speed. However, we found no effect of the microhabitat on the allometric relationship between head and vestibular system size. The finding that microhabitat is not reflected in the vestibular system size (hence sensitivity) of the lacertids in this study is possibly due to spatial constraints of the skull.
Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Goyens, J. & Damme, R. van & Aerts, P. (2019) -
Shape variation in the vestibular system is often linked to microhabitat structure and locomotor performance. Highly circular and orthogonal semicircular canal pairs are linked to higher motion sensitivity. Here, we use 3D geometric morphometrics to investigate shape variation in the vestibular system within lacertid lizards and its relationship to balance control. We found that lacertids living in complex microhabitats possess narrow but longer vestibular systems, an S-shaped anterior canal, a straightened lateral canal and a short common crus. However, lacertids specialized for simple microhabitats (open areas) possess wider but shorter vestibular systems, more circular anterior and lateral canals, and a longer common crus. Contrary to our expectations, species living in simple microhabitats possess more anatomical adaptations that enhance the sensitivity of their vestibular system. This suggests that species inhabiting open areas may benefit from increased sensitivity given that they are potentially more visibile to predators and have lower shelter availability. Finally, the wider shape of the vestibular system of the open area species may be linked to a wider and potentially flattened skull, which may be related to sand-diving or prey hardness.
Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Goyens, J. & Van Damme, R. & Baeckens, S. & Aerts, P. (2017) -
Vasilyan, D. & Zazhigin, V.S. & Böhme, M. (2017) -
Background: The present-day amphibian and reptile fauna of Western Siberia are the least diverse of the Palaearctic Realm, as a consequence of the unfavourable climatic conditions that predominate in this region. The origin and emergence of these herpetofaunal groups are poorly understood. Aside from the better-explored European Neogene localities yielding amphibian and reptile fossil remains, the Neogene herpetofauna of Western Asia is understudied. The few available data need critical reviews and new interpretations, taking into account the more recent records of the European herpetofauna. The comparison of this previous data with that of European fossil records would provide data on palaeobiogeographic affiliations of the region as well as on the origin and emergence of the present-day fauna of Western Siberia. An overview of the earliest occurrences of certain amphibian lineages is still needed. In addition, studies that address such knowledge gaps can be useful for molecular biologists in their calibration of molecular clocks. Methods and Results: In this study, we considered critically reviewed available data from amphibian and reptile fauna from over 40 Western Siberian, Russian and Northeastern Kazakhstan localities, ranging from the Middle Miocene to Early Pleistocene. Herein, we provided new interpretations that arose from our assessment of the previously published and new data. More than 50 amphibians and reptile taxa were identified belonging to families Hynobiidae, Cryptobranchidae, Salamandridae, Palaeobatrachidae, Bombinatoridae, Pelobatidae, Hylidae, Bufonidae, Ranidae, Gekkonidae, Lacertidae, and Emydidae. Palaeobiogeographic analyses were performed for these groups and palaeoprecipitation values were estimated for 12 localities, using the bioclimatic analysis of herpetofaunal assemblages. Conclusion: The Neogene assemblage ofWestern Siberia was found to be dominated by groups of European affinities, such as Palaeobatrachidae, Bombina, Hyla, Bufo bufo, and a small part of this assemblage included Eastern Palaearctic taxa (e.g. Salamandrella, Tylototriton, Bufotes viridis). For several taxa (e.g. Mioproteus, Hyla, Bombina, Rana temporaria), the Western Siberian occurrences represented their most eastern Eurasian records. The most diverse collection of fossil remains was found in the Middle Miocene. Less diversity has been registered towards the Early Pleistocene, potentially due to the progressive cooling of the climate in the Northern Hemisphere. The results of our study showed higher-amplitude changes of precipitation development in Western Siberia from the Early Miocene to the Pliocene, than previously assumed.
Vassallo, R. (2010) -
Vassilakakis, M. & Soller, J.T. & Magulski, T. (1998) -
Vassilieva, A.B. & Galoyan, E.A. & Poyarkov, N.A. & Geissler, P. (2016) -
Vasvári, M. (1926) -
Vater, G. (2017) -
Vaughn, P.L. & McQueen, W. & Gangloff, E.J. (2021) -
Understanding how morphology affects performance in novel environments and how populations shift their morphology in response to environmental selective pressures is necessary to understand how invaders can be successful. We tested these relationships in a global colonizer, the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), translocated to Cincinnati, OH, USA 70 years ago. We investigated how morphology shifts in this population inhabiting a novel environment, how these morphological shifts influence locomotor performance and how performance changes in novel conditions. We compared the morphology of museum specimens and current lizards to see which aspects of morphology have shifted over time. Although overall body size did not change, most body dimensions reduced in size. We measured sprint speed with a full-factorial design of substrate type, incline angle and obstacles. We identified a pattern of negative correlation in sprint performance between conditions with and without obstacles. The locomotor advantage of larger body size was diminished when obstacles were present. Finally, there was no relationship between individual variation in contemporary morphology and sprint performance, providing no support to the hypothesis that these shifts are attributable to selective pressures on locomotor performance in the conditions tested.
Vaughn, P.L. & McQueen, W.L. & Gangloff, E.J. (2020) -
Multiple factors influence an organism’s performance in a given environment, including morphology and physiology. These factors have been well studied on their own, but it is not clear how they interact to influence performance. In this project, we will examine morphological and physiological factors and determine their influence on performance. We have constructed a racetrack to test individual lizards’ spring speed (a common indicator of performance) in a variety of conditions. We will be researching these morphological and physiological aspects in lizards from across an elevational gradient in their native range in France as well as invasive populations within southern Ohio. Data from both invasive and native populations will be compared to see if there are significant changes in morphology and physiology that can be attributed to the environment.
Vedmederya, V. & Zinenko, O. & Barabanov, A. (2009) -
This publication provides a critical review of the amphibian and reptilian type specimens presented in the collec- tion of the Museum of Nature at V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University (Kharkiv, Ukraine), as of May 2008. The collection contains type specimens of twenty taxa. Eleven of them are valid species or subspecies. Lecto- types of Hyla arborea schelkownikowi, Rana dentex, Eryx miliaris nogaiorum, Coluber schmidti, and Ancistro- don halys caucasicus are designated. Information about lost type materials is provided.
Veen, C. van (1957) -
Vegni-Talluri, M. & Bigliardi, E. (1983) -
Veiga, J.P. & Salvador, A. (2001) -
The optimal emergence time for temperate hibernating male lizards may represent a balance between the costs and benefits of emerging at a particular time. Emerging earliest could have a great impact on mating success, but only males with good body condition may cope with the costs of early emergence. Thus, it should be expected that emergence date is highly subjected to environmental variation, so that it may be presumed that this trait will show low between-years consistency. We examined the relationships between emergence date, body condition, and pairing success in free-ranging male lizards, Psammodromus algirus. Emergence date and body condition were negatively correlated. However, a multiple regression analysis showed that the number of females associated with a male was explained by effects of emergence date and snout-vent length but not by body condition. Contrary to expected, emergence date of males breeding over two consecutive seasons were correlated, even when the confounding effects of body size and condition were controlled.
Veiga, J.P. & Salvador, A. & Blazquez, C. & Galina, P. (2000) -
Veiga, P. & Salvador, A. & Merino, S. & Puerta, M. (1998) -
Life-history theory predicts that there is a trade-off between reproductive effort and several traits that determine fitness. Infectious disease has gained acceptance as a crucial factor linking both variables. In most instances phenotypic manipulation is necessary to convincingly demonstrate a causal relationship of reproductive effort on parasitism. However, experimental studies that manipulate reproductive effort or parasite load have been rarely conducted in reptiles. In this study, we manipulated reproductive effort of male lizards (Psammodromus algirus) through testosterone implants, and measured the associated response in some haematological variables and parasite load. Testosterone-supplemented males had lower scores than control males in factor 1 of a PCA for different blood parameters. This factor is correlated with the number of white blood cells, especially lymphocytes, and with plasma glucose levels. Experimental males also had higher scores in factor 3 that is mainly related to protein catabolism. Scores of males in component 1 tended to be correlated negatively with tick load, while scores in component 3 were correlated positively with the number of haemogregarines in the blood. These results suggest that higher investment in reproduction decreases the immune defences, and conduces to the use of structural resources, which may render individuals more susceptible to some haemoparasites. This is consistent with the idea that an increase in reproductive effort mediated by testosterone has a negative effect on the ability to counteract parasite infections.
Veith, G. (1991) -
Veith, M. & Bahl, A. & Seitz, A. (1999) -
Velasco Rodriguez, A. (2022) -
Currently, we are living an environmental crisis due to the sixth mass species extinction and habitats loss that is being caused by human action. The ex-situ biodiversity monitoring is an alternative tool to conventional methods based on more static and less profitable processes. Therefore, more effective and informative tools are needed that must be supporting the decisive politics. In this work a cost-effective and more efficient methodology is used by combining the ecological niche models (based on the habitat suitability index – HSI) with satellite remote sensing time series data. The work main purpose is to estimate the habitat trends of threatened and emblematic species of different taxonomic groups in Andalusia in the last two decades (2001 – 2019 period). To the calibration of the habitat models, several remote sensing products from MODIS sensor at 5x5km of pixel resolution were used. In general, the models showed a high performance (AUC values between 0.75 and 1), predicting the 60% of the negative trends of the habitat suitability for the total species, showing a habitat regression in the last decades. Among the most affected species, Alytes dickhilleni (amphibian) and Podarcis carbonelli (reptile) stand out, both Ibero-Andalusian endemism whose natural habitat is clearly in decline. The predictor variables that contributed the most were related to the composition and structure vegetation (LC) and with climate and energy balance (ET and LST), marching in mostly of the cases with the species ecology. This methodology represents a promising early warning tool to support management and conservation protocols for threatened species, and thus helps to anticipate the decision-making processes.
Velasco, A. & Navas, P. & Biueno, C. & Lopez-Campos, J.L. (1982) -
Veldkamp, H. (1990) -
Two males and three females are kept together in a small desert terrarium. One male is dominant. In summer the animals mate at temperatures bet- ween 28 and 33 °C. In wintertime they are less ac- tive. A female can produce up to four clutches of four to five eggs each season. They hatch in ap- prox. 55 days. The young reach maturity in about one year. Breeding results were improved largely by administering extra calcium, phosphorus and vitam in D3.
Velekei, B. & Lakatos, F. & Biró, P. & Ács, E. & Puky, M. (2014) -
The Eurasian common lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823) has seven haplogroups. A northsouth corridor of the VB haplogroup across eastern Hungary and western Romania has recently been suggested. We tested this hypothesis by sequencing a fragment (appr. 400 bp) of the protein encoding cytochrome b gene of the mtDNA. All four previously known haplogroups were detected in the country but along the eastern border with Romania only the VU haplogroup was found. As such, either the proposed corridor is narrower and lies further to the east, in Romania, or the haplogroup distribution area is discontinuous between eastern Slovakia - western Ukraine and the Balkan.
Velekei, B. & Lakatos, F. & Covaciumarcov, S.D. & Sas-Kovács, I. & Puky, M. (2015) -
Until 2014, seven haplogroups of the Eurasian common lizard, Zootoca vivipara (Lichtenstein, 1823), belonging to six clades were described. During the systematic survey of 18 populations from the eastern part of the Carpathian Basin we sequenced two mtDNA regions for haplotype determination. Here we present the results from partially sequencing (appr. 400 bp) the protein encoding cytochrome b. All populations except two belonged to different haplotypes of the VU haplogroup. The populations studied in the Făgăraş Mountains and Bucegi Mountains, however, were characterised as new, previously undescribed presumably ancient haplotypes.
Velekei, B. & Tóth, V. & Lakatos, F. & Biró, P. & Ács, E. & Puky, M. (2012) -
Velekei, B.A. (2015) -
Velekei, B.A. (2016) -
Velo-Antón, G. (2012) -
Los ecosistemas insulares ofrecen numerosos ejemplos de adaptación y conductas que son menos frecuentes en poblaciones continentales. En esta nota se documenta la obser-vación de varios adultos de Podarcis hispanica alimentándose de diferentes especies de insectosatraídos por cadáveres en descomposición de rata negra (Rattus rattus). Esta especie es invaso-ra y cuenta con poblaciones muy numerosas en cada una de las islas que forman el archipiéla-go de Cíes, y sus cadáveres pueden servir de forma indirecta como recurso trófico para laspoblaciones insulares de P. hispanica
Velo-Antón, G. (2019) -
Velo-Anton, G. & Martinez-Freiria, F. & Pereira, P. & Crochet, P.-A. & Brito, J.C. (2018) -
Aim: Climatic fluctuations in northern Africa substantially changed the extent of the Sahara desert and Saharan species’ ranges. Yet, the region contained areas of climatic stability. We test the hypothesis that the Atlantic Sahara was a stable corridor, connecting ecoregions, for the spiny-footed lizard Acanthodactylus aureus. - Location: Africa, Saharan Atlantic coastal desert. - Methods: We combined ecological modelling and phylogeographic and population genetic analyses. Ecological models for past and current conditions were used to predict climatically stable areas for the species over time. Genetic analysis, including for three mitochondrial fragments (12S, Cytb and COI), one nuclear gene (C-mos) and 18 microsatellite markers, were used to unveil patterns of genetic structure and diversity, and gene flow dynamics within A. aureus. - Results: Three mtDNA allopatric lineages diversified during the Pliocene-Pleistocene along the Atlantic Sahara. Two main areas of high climatic stability largely fit the regions with highest mtDNA diversity. Mito-nuclear discordances along some coastal regions indicate evidence of gene flow between lineages, which are likely mediated by population expansions and male-biased dispersal. Several geographical barriers to gene flow were also identified. - Main conclusion: This study highlights the role of the Atlantic Sahara ecoregion both as a centre of lineage diversification and as a occasional suitable corridor within the Sahara desert. Population retractions and expansions resulting from climatic oscillations during the Pleistocene, facilitated allopatric diversification and genetic introgression processes along this region, whereas stable geographical barriers limited gene flow dynamics.
Vences, M. & Rey, J. & Puente, M. & Miramontes, C. & Dominguez, M. (1998) -
Vences, M. & Thiesmeier, B. & Glaw, F. (1992) -
Venchi, A. & Bologna, M.A. (1996) -
Venchi, A. & Cerbo, A.R. & Schiavo, R.M. (2011) -
Venchi, A. & Cerbo, A.R. di (2011) -
Venchi, A. & Sindaco, R. (2011) -
Venchi, A. & Vignoli, L. & Luiselli, L. (2011) -
Venne, C. (2006) -
Venne, C. (2017) -
Venter, J.A. & Conradie, W. (2015) -
We surveyed six protected areas along the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, to determine general herpetofaunal diversity as well as the representation of species of special conservation concern. Visual encounter survey methods and standard Y-shape trap arrays were used to conduct surveys from 2011 to 2013. A total of 59 species (22 amphibians and 37 reptiles) were recorded. A number of previously unknown populations of threatened species and one potential novel species were discovered in these protected areas, and the known ranges of several other species were extended. A total of 243 quarter-degree grid-cell unit records were documented, of which 90 (23% amphibians and 50% reptiles) represented the first records for the area. Amphibian and reptile diversity increased along the coast and a number of species of conservation concern were well represented in current protected areas. Our study provides a comprehensive amphibian and reptile checklist for an under-sampled region and highlights the importance of baseline data for improving conservation management. Conservation implications: Small protected areas play an important role in conserving a number of threatened herpetofaunal species along the Wild Coast. The region is currently under significant and increasing pressure from anthropogenic-induced environmental degradation, which affects biodiversity and subsequently the local inhabitants. The information presented here represents an important baseline for future conservation management.
Vento, D. & Pérez, C. (2011) -
Venugopal, P.D. (2010) -
Over the past two decades many checklists of reptiles of India and adjacent countries have been published. These publications have furthered the growth of knowledge on systematics, distribution and biogeography of Indian reptiles, and the field of herpetology in India in general. However, the reporting format of most such checklists of Indian reptiles does not provide a basis for direct verification of the information presented. As a result, mistakes in the inclusion and omission of species have been perpetuated and the exact number of reptile species reported from India still remains unclear. A verification of the current listings based on distributional records and review of published checklists revealed that 199 species of lizards (Reptilia: Sauria) are currently validly reported on the basis of distributional records within the boundaries of India. Seventeen other lizard species have erroneously been included in earlier checklists of Indian reptiles. Omissions of species by these checklists have been even more numerous than erroneous inclusions. In this paper, I present a plea to report species lists as annotated checklists which corroborate the inclusion and omission of species by providing valid source references or notes.
Venus, V. & Ferri-Yánez, F. & Toxopeus, B. (2007) -
Vera Porcell, L. de & Gonzalez Gonzalez, J. (1986) -
Vera Porcell, L. de & Gonzalez, J.G. (1986) -
Vera, L. de & González, J. (1999) -
The role of the sympathetic limb of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) in the mediation of oscillations in consecutive beat-to-beat RR interval (RRI) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) values of lizards, Gallotia galloti, was investigated using spectral analysis and measuring effects of autonomic blockers. a-Adrenergic blockade decreased the power spectral density (PSD) of both RRI and SBP very low frequency (VLF: 0.007–0.055 Hz) and low frequency (LF: 0.055– 0.150 Hz) bands, whereas b-adrenergic blockade increased the PSD of both RRI- and SBP-VLF and RRI- and SBP-LF bands. These findings suggest that in lizards 1) the VLF and LF peaks of RRI and SBP power spectra are a-adrenergic mediated, and that 2) the b-adrenergic activity of the sympathetic system may act buffering all RRI and SBP oscillations below 0.150 Hz. These results, when analyzed jointly with the ones obtained from a previous study (De Vera and González. 1997. Comp Biochem Physiol 85A:389–394) on the effects of parasympathetic blockade on lizards’ RRI and SBP oscillations, demonstrate that these reptiles, like mammals, exhibit spontaneous short-term oscillations in their HR and SBP which are mediated by the ANS. However, unlike mammals, the RRI and ABP low-frequency oscillations in Gallotia seem to be similarly affected by the ANS and appear to be powered by a-adrenergic and parasympathetic activities and buffered by b-adrenergic activity.
Vera, L. de & Hayes, J. (1995) -
Vera, L. de & Pereda, E. (2000) -
ECG and EEG signals were simultaneously recorded in lizards, Gallotia galloti, both in control conditions and under autonomic nervous system (ANS) blockade, in order to evaluate possible relationships between the ANS control of heart rate and the integrated central nervous system activity in reptiles. The ANS blockers used were prazosin, propranolol, and atropine. Time-domain summary statistics were derived from the series of consecutive R-R intervals (RRI) of the ECG to measure beat-to-beat heart rate variability (HRV), and spectral analysis techniques were applied to the EEG activity to assess its frequency content. Both prazosin and atropine did not alter the power spectral density (PSD) of the EEG low frequency (LF: 0.5–7.5 Hz) and high frequency (HF: 7.6–30 Hz) bands, whereas propranolol decreased the PSD in these bands. These findings suggest that central b-adrenergic receptor mechanisms could mediate the reptilian waking EEG activity without taking part any a1-adrenergic and/or cholinergic receptor systems. In 55% of the lizards in control conditions, and in ~43% of the lizards under prazosin and atropine, a negative correlation between the coefficient of variation of the series of RRI value (CVRRI) and the mean power frequency (MPF) of the EEG spectra was found, but not under propranolol. Consequently, the lizards’ HRV-EEG–activity relationship appears to be independent of a1-adrenergic and cholinergic receptor systems and mediated by b-adrenergic receptor mechanisms.
Vera, L. de & Pereda, E. & Santana, A. & González, J.J. (2005) -
Electroencephalograms of medial cortex and electromyograms of intercostal muscles (EMG-icm) were simultaneously recorded in the lizard, Gallotia galloti, during two daily time periods (at daytime, DTP: 1200–1600 h; by night, NTP: 0000–0400 h), to investigate whether a relationship exists between the respiratory and cortical electrical activity of reptiles, and, if so, how this relationship changes during the night rest period. Testing was carried out by studying interdependence between cortical electrical and respiratory activities, by means of linear and nonlinear signal analysis techniques. Both physiological activities were evaluated through simultaneous power signals, derived from the power of the low-frequency band of the electroencephalogram (pEEG-LF), and from the power of the EMG-icm (pEMG-icm), respectively. During both DTP and NTP, there was a significant coherence between both signals in the main frequency band of pEMG-icm. During both DTP and NTP, the nonlinear index N measured significant linear asymmetric interdependence between pEEG-LF and pEMG-icm. The N value obtained between pEEG-LF vs. pEMG-icm was greater than the one between pEMG-icm vs. pEEG-LF. This means that the system that generates the pEEG-LF is more complex than the one that generates the pEMG-icm, and suggests that the temporal variability of power in the low-frequency cortical electrical activity is driven by the power of the respiratory activity.
Vera, L. de & Rial, R.V. & Pereda, E. & González, J.J. (2012) -
Autonomic nervous system (ANS) involvement in the mediation of the synchronization between beat-to-beat RR interval variability (RRIV) and systolic blood pressure variability (SBPV) signals of the lizard Gallotia galloti (Oudart, 1839) was investigated through linear and nonlinear time series analysis methods in a pharmacological blockade context. The ANS blockers used were atropine, prazosin, and propranolol. The interdependence between the signals was quantified by means of the magnitude-squared coherence (MSC), which measures amplitude and phase linear synchronization; the phase lag index (PLI), which evaluates the phase synchronization; and the index L, which quantifies the generalized linear and nonlinear synchronization. Atropine decreased the PLI in the low-frequency (LF: 0.01–0.05 Hz) range; prazosin decreased the MSC in the medium-frequency (MF: 0.06–0.15 Hz) range; and propranolol did not alter any of the interdependence measures. It is suggested that (i) the cholinoceptor activity mediates the phase cardiovascular synchronization in the LF range; (ii) the α1-adrenoceptor activity mediates the amplitude and phase linear cardiovascular synchronization in the MF range; and (iii) the β-adrenoceptor activity plays no role in mediating any dynamics of cardiovascular synchronization in the studied frequency range. When comparing these results with those in mammals, a lesser overall autonomic involvement in the mediation of the studied cardiovascular interdependences is seen in reptiles.
Vera, L. de & Santana, A. & Gonzalez, J.J. (2008) -
Both nonlinear and fractal properties of beat-to-beat R-R interval variability signal (RRV) of freely moving lizards (Gallotia galloti) were studied in baseline and under autonomic nervous system blockade. Nonlinear techniques allowed us to study the complexity, chaotic behavior, nonlinearity, stationarity, and regularity over time of RRV. Scaling behavior of RRV was studied by means of fractal techniques. The autonomic nervous system blockers used were atropine, propranolol, prazosin, and yohimbine. The nature of RRV was linear in baseline and under ß-, a1- and a2-adrenoceptor blockades. Atropine changed the linear nature of RRV to nonlinear and increased its stationarity, regularity and fractality. Propranolol increased the complexity and chaotic behavior, and decreased the stationarity, regularity, and fractality of RRV. Both prazosin and yohimbine did not change any of the nonlinear and fractal properties of RRV. It is suggested that 1) the use of both nonlinear and fractal analysis is an appropriate approach for studying cardiac period variability in reptiles; 2) the cholinergic activity, which seems to make the a1-, a2- and ß-adrenergic activity interaction unnecessary, determines the linear behavior in basal RRV; 3) fractality, as well as both RRV regularity and stationarity over time, may result from the balance between cholinergic and ß-adrenergic activities opposing actions; 4) ß-adrenergic activity may buffer both the complexity and chaotic behavior of RRV, and 5) neither the a1- nor the a2-adrenergic activity seem to be involved in the mediation of either nonlinear or fractal components of RRV.
Vera, L. de & Santana, A. & Pereda, E. & Gonzalez, J.J. (2008) -
Multivariate nonlinear analysis methods were applied to variability time series extracted from electrocardiographic, electrocorticographic and respiratory activities of Gallotia galloti lizards, to study interdependences between cardio-cortical activity time variations, and between cardio- respiratory activity time variations. Autonomic nervous system involvement in the mediation of such interdependences was investigated through pharmacological blockade. Cardiac variability was evaluated from the R–R intervals of the electrocardiogram (RRIv). Cortical (CORTv) and respiratory (RESPv) activity time variations were evaluated from power-data signals derived from both electrocorticogram and respiratory signal segments obtained within each R–R interval, respectively. A nonlinear index N to measure interdependence between the signals, and a surrogate data test to measure the significance and nature of the interdependences were used. A nonlinear dependence of RRIv vs. CORTv and of RRIv vs. RESPv was found. Both dependences seem to be unconnected with the functioning of both α1-adrenoceptor and cholinoceptor systems, but appear to be mediated by β-adrenoceptor mechanisms. A linear dependence of CORTv vs. RRIv and of RESPv vs. RRIv was also found. Both dependences seem to be unconnected with the operation of α1 -adrenoceptor, β-adrenoceptor and cholinoceptor systems. It is suggested that both the cardiocortical and cardiorespiratory synchronizations studied seem to be mediated by β-adrenoceptor mechanisms.
Verbeek, B. (1972) -
Lacerta hispanica from southern France has been observed and bred in captivity. The conditions for successful breeding of this lizard are described.
Verbeek, P. & Schepers, F. (1994) -
Verberne, H. (1936) -
Vercken, E. (2003) -
Vercken, E. (2007) -
Vercken, E. & Clobert, J. (2008) -
Colour variation in females is expected to play a role in intra-specific communication by signalling for traits that are socially relevant. However, in some cases, the information carried by colour signals is not sufficient and other cues may be used by conspecifics, such as chemosensory cues. In the common lizard, ventral coloration of females can be classified as yellow, orange or mixed. These ventral colours have been shown to predict the outcome of dyad encounters in an experimental context. However, there was no evidence that females really used the colour signal to assess the competitive ability and the social strategy of their opponent. In lacertids, chemical signals are often implicated in intraspecific communication, and could be used by females to acquire information useful for social interactions. We performed dyad encounters in which the ventral colour of the opponent was either visible or not, and studied the response of the focal female. We found that females used the colour of their opponent as a signal to adjust their own behaviour, but they also seem to be able to use other complementary cues, most probably behavioural cues. Females of different colours also differed in their ability to respond to a novel situation, which suggests colour-based differences in the plasticity of social behaviour.
In the common lizard, female competition for resources is likely to be a strong selective pressure that has enhanced the evolution of conspicuous traits. Female common lizards display a polymorphism in ventral colour correlated with differences in reproduction, dispersal, and susceptibility to resource competition. We tested the hypothesis that this polymorphism is correlated with differences in behaviour in a social context. We studied the agonistic behaviour (aggression and avoidance) and social stress of females of different colours during laboratory-staged encounters with a limiting resource. We found that the behaviour of females was affected by their own colour, or the colour of their opponent, or both. Such alternative behavioural patterns might reflect differences in competitive ability. Orange females were the least aggressive and the most likely to avoid social interactions, and thus could be a weaker competitor. Yellow females were rarely exposed to aggression and often made their opponents flee, and thus might have higher resource-holding potential. Mixed females were aggressive but were also often exposed to aggression, and displayed the highest stress level, which could be characteristic of an intermediate or condition-dependent resource-holding potential. The possibility that ventral colour is used in social interactions to signal resource-holding potential is discussed.
Vercken, E. & Clobert, J. & Sinervo, B. (2010) -
Alternative strategies are characterised by context-dependent Wtness payoVs, which means that their Wtness depends on the frequency and the nature of their interactions with one or more strategies. The analysis of the variation of the Wtness of each strategy in diVerent social environments can elucidate the evolutionary dynamics played by the strategies. In the common lizard, three female colour types (yellow, orange and mixed) are associated with alternative reaction norms in reproduction and social behaviour that signal alternative strategies. To clarify the nature of colour-speciWc interactions and their inXuence on female Wtness, we analysed the response of female repro- ductive success to an experimental manipulation of colour frequencies in natural populations. We found that juvenile body condition at birth for all colour types was negatively aVected by the local frequency of yellow females. In addition, we found that mixed females had higher clutch hatching success in the populations where orange females were frequent. These results prove that female reproduction is sensitive to the social environment, and are consistent with a scenario of a hawk–dove–bully game, in which yellow females are aggressive hawks, orange females non- aggressive doves, and mixed females have a context- dependent bully strategy. In this system, the plastic bully strategy would confer a reproductive advantage to putative heterozygotes in some social environments, which could allow the maintenance of the system through context- dependent overdominance effects.
Vercken, E. & Fraipont, M. de & Dufty Jr., A.M. & Clobert, J. (2007) -
Although multiple condition dependence in dispersal is common, the proximate mechanisms that integrate information from multiple sources remain largely unknown. In the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara), earlier studies have shown that maternal plasma corticosterone level interacts with maternal phenotype to affect offspring phenotype and dispersal strategy, and may reflect the mother`s external and/or internal environment. However, the mechanism by which these two types of environmental information are integrated has not been identified. We explored the possibility that the timing and duration of the corticosterone signal are the key factors by which the message is modulated. We found that the timing of corticosterone exposure affects the juvenile phenotype: an exposure to corticosterone early in development has negative effects on juvenile size, weight, and body condition, that can nevertheless be restored in the case of a prolonged exposure. The duration of corticosterone exposure affects the dispersal strategy, although the precise effect depends on the sex ratio of the clutch. That is, in female-biased clutches, a prolonged exposure during gestation promotes philopatry of juveniles, while a short exposure enhances their dispersal, a result that is consistent with kin competition theory. Therefore, our results demonstrate that while corticosterone titer may signal a mother`s external and/or internal environment to her developing young, differences in the timing and duration of this endocrine signal produce offspring with specialized phenotypes that exhibit different dispersal strategies.
Vercken, E. & Massot, M. & Sinervo, B. & Clobert, J. (2007) -
Within-sex colour variation is a widespread phenomenon in animals that often plays a role in social selection. In males, colour variation is typically associated with the existence of alternative reproductive strategies. Despite ecological conditions theoretically favourable to the emergence of such alternative strategies in females, the social significance of colour variation in females has less commonly been addressed, relative to the attention given to male strategies. In a population of the common lizard, females display three classes of ventral colouration: pale yellow, orange and mixed. These ventral colours are stable through individual`s life and maternally heritable. Females of different ventral colourations displayed different responses of clutch size, clutch hatching success and clutch sex-ratio to several individual and environmental parameters. Such reaction patterns might reflect alternative reproductive strategies in females. Spatial heterogeneity and presence of density- and frequency-dependent feedbacks in the environment could allow for the emergence of such alternative strategies in this population and the maintenance of colour variation in females.
Vercken, E. & Sinervo, B. & Clobert, J. (2008) -
Female common lizards display variation in their ventral colour, ranging from pale yellow to bright orange. In a previous study, we proposed a discrete classification of this variation into three colour classes: yellow, orange and mixed. However, a recent study reported on continuity of reflectance spectra and plastic change in spectrum components in female common lizards, which made the authors question the validity of a discrete classification of colour patterns in this species. Here, we discuss the relevance of discrete, eye-based colour classification for understanding the ecological processes that shape the social structure of common lizard female populations. First, as the mixed colour class is characterized by heterogeneous distribution of colour, we explain that it cannot be reliably described by localized spectrophotometer measurements. On the contrary, the classification of colour into three discrete classes is consistent with the description of three alternative strategies in female common lizards. Then, although we support the ecological importance of colour plasticity in this species, we refute the hypothesis of a condition-dependent signal, which is not supported by experimental data. At last, we explain that colour plasticity, and in particular hormone-mediated plasticity is compatible with genetic inheritance of colour and the evolution of alternative strategies. Indeed, the genetic background and the environment, especially the social environment, are expected to interact adaptively to modulate the expression of colour signals and alternative strategies. The degree to which colour variation in nature is genetically vs. environmentally determined (e.g. by plasticity) is the key to understanding the evolutionary stability of any alternative reproductive strategies associated with colour (Sinervo, 2001). Recently, Cote et al. (2008) reported on plastic changes in colour in the European common lizard, Lacerta vivipara, and claimed that their study refuted the discrete nature of colour morphs that we previously reported (Vercken et al., 2007a). Their argumentation relied on two major points: (1) the analysis of female reflectance spectra did not reveal consistent clusters of individuals based on spectrum components; (2) spectrum components were significantly affected by an experimental manipulation of the social environment. Here, we propose alternative interpretation for their results, consistent with our previous findings that supported the hypothesis of discrete colour morphs reflecting the existence of alternative reproductive strategies in females of this species.
Vercken, E. & Sinervo, B. & Clobert, J. (2012) -
Within a population, dispersers are likely to differ in their motivation and adaptations to disperse; yet individual heterogeneity in dispersal decisions is still poorly documented. In the common lizard, females can be classified into 3 types of ventral color (yellow, orange, and mixed) that signal alternative strategies in reproduction and behavior. The reproductive success of these alternative strategies depends on the frequency of each color type in their local environment. Therefore, we predicted that adaptive emigration and settlement decisions should differ between color types and respond to the social composition of the environment. To test this prediction, we analyzed juvenile local dispersal decisions in response to an experimental manipulation of the local color type frequencies. Offspring from orange or mixed females showed decreased dispersal rate in populations where the frequency of yellow females was increased, and those who dispersed chose to settle in environments with lower female density but higher frequency of yellow females. Our results demonstrate that the composition of the social environment is used as a direct cue for dispersal decisions that provides information on resource competition and environment quality. The frequency of female color types is thus a key parameter of the social environment that influences habitat choice decisions. However, the pattern of spatial autocorrelation of adult females was not consistent with these color-related dispersal patterns, which suggest that other processes also participate in shaping the distribution of individuals at the population scale.
Verderame, M. (2009) -
Verderame, M. (2014) -
(ERs).Thedistributionof the androgen receptor (AR) iswell documented in the testis and in the reproductive tissues of mammals but the findings about the AR in nonmammalian vertebrates and in particular in reptiles are very scarce. Here by means of in situ hybridization (ISH) we investigated the AR expression along the epididymal channel (efferent ductules, corpus, and cauda) of Podarcis sicula during the mating and nonmating period. The results show that in this seasonal breeding species the AR expression pattern is always constant throughout the epididymis.The administration of estradiol-17
Verderame, M. (2016) -
In manure, the endocrine disruptors may have a dual source: as natural metabolites of the steroidal hormones present in the manure deposed by farm animals or of synthetic origin as the alkylphenols used for a variety of applications and consumer products. In particular, the EDC with estrogen-like activity cause a number of issues mainly related to the male fertility. This study aims to ascertain if an estrogenic environment is able to induce male gonad of the lizard Podarcis sicula to the synthesize Vitellogenin (VTG), the main biomarker of estrogenic exposure. From our investigations of in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry emerges that VTG gene is transcribed and translated in the testis of lizards collected in organic farming where the manure is the unique fertilizer used and in the samples fed with food experimentally polluted by an estrogen-like substance i.e. nonylphenol. The same findings are recorded after the injection of estradiol-17β.
Verderame, M. & Angelini, F. & Limatola, E. (2012) -
The epididymis in the male reproductive tract allows the survival, viability, and storage of spermatozoa from the testis. In the lizard Podarcis sicula, the epididymis can be regionalized to an initial segment called the caput that comprises the efferent ductules, followed by the middle and terminal segments, respectively termed the corpus and cauda. By means of in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry, we analyzed the expression of the estrogen receptors of the alpha and beta type (ERα and ERβ) in Podarcis to test the responsiveness of the epididymal regions to estrogen in the annual reproductive cycle of this seasonal breeder. The results show that the efferent ductules and the cauda always express both ERα and ERβ throughout the year. In the corpus, the expression of ERα takes place only at the end of the mating period and continues in the non-reproductive season whereas ERβ is expressed in all phases of the cycle. During the mating season, the cells of the corpus are engaged in massive secretory activity and do not express ERα. Experimental administration of E2 during this season does not change the expression of ERβ, nor does it affect the efferent ductules and cauda; instead, it inhibits the secretory activity in the corpus and induces the expression of ERα. Taken together, our findings suggest that in the epididymis of Podarcis, the expression of ERα may act as a switch for the secretory activity of the epididymal corpus. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 79:107–117, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Verderame, M. & Angelini, F. & Limatola, E. (2014) -
Verderame, M. & Chianese, T. & Rosati, L. & Scudiero, R. (2022) -
The expansion of agriculture produces a steady increase in habitat fragmentation and degradation due to the increased use of pesticides and herbicides. Habitat loss and alteration associated with crop production play an important role in reptile decline, among which lizards are particularly endangered. In this study, we evaluated testicular structure, steroidogenesis, and estrogen receptor expression/localization after three weeks of oral exposure to glyphosate at 0.05 and 0.5 μg/kg body weight every other day in the field lizard Podarcis siculus. Our results show that glyphosate affected testicular morphology, reduced spermatogenesis, altered gap junctions and changed the localization of estrogen receptors in germ cells, increasing their expression; the effects were mostly dose-dependent. The result also demonstrates that glyphosate, at least at these concentrations, did not influence steroidogenesis. Overall, the data indicate that this herbicide can disturb the morphophysiology of the male lizard’s reproductive system, with obviously detrimental effects on their reproductive fitness. The effects of glyphosate must be considered biologically relevant and could endanger the reproductive capacity not only of lizards but also of other vertebrates, including humans; a more controlled and less intensive use of glyphosate in areas devoted to crop production would therefore be advisable.
Verderame, M. & Limatola, E. (2010) -
In non-mammalian vertebrates yolk deposition in the oocytes is a hormone-dependent, gender-specific process. Produced by the ovary under gonadotropin stimulation, Estradiol 17-β (E2) plays a key role in the liver synthesis of vitellogenin (VTG) which in turn is taken up by vitellogenic oocytes in the ovary. In many species a negative role in liver synthesis of VTG in females is also played by progesterone. Experimental administration of E2 induces the expression of the VTG silent gene also in the liver of males of all the species studied. However, the role of the two isoforms of estrogen receptors, ERα and β, in this process is still unclear. In order to elucidate what kind of ER is involved in the liver synthesis of VTG in the lizard Podarcis sicula, we obtained by means of RT-PCR two fragments of 430 bp and 130 bp from total ovarian mRNA, encoding respectively for ERα and ERβ. Expression analysis of these two specific isoforms of ERs in the liver showed that in non-breeding females, and in wildlife untreated males only ERβ is expressed. In breeding vitellogenic females and in E2-treated males both α and β receptors are expressed. Furthermore, in females experimentally treated with progesterone during the breeding period, expression of ERα disappears. Conversely, treatment of females with E2 in the non-breeding period induces expression of ERα. Immunohistochemical analysis and Western blotting showed that the presence of irVTG in liver and plasma is always parallel to hepatic expression of ERα in all the different experimental conditions. Our data strongly suggest that expression of ERα may be necessary for VTG synthesis in Podarcis. The possible modulatory role of ERβ is also discussed.
Verderame, M. & Limatóla, E. (2015) -
Nonylphenol (NP) is classified among the endocrine disruptor chemicals with estrogen-like properties. It is widely used in many industries and to dilute pesticides in agriculture, and is known to affect the reproductive system of many aquatic and semi-aquatic organisms. This study aimed to verify how NP, administered via food and water, may interfere with the reproductive cycle of a terrestrial vertebrate. Our model was the male Italian wall lizard Podarcis sicula, a seasonal breeding species that may be naturally exposed to environmental pollution. From our findings it emerges that an NP-polluted diet administered during the mating period causes in this lizard a slowdown of spermatogenesis and affects the testicular and epididymal structure, making it similar to that of the non-reproductive period. The distribution in the testis and epididymis of mRNA for steroid hormone receptors, i.e., estrogen α and β and androgen receptors, was also investigated. NP treatment inhibits the expression of AR, ERα, and ERβ-mRNA in spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes and causes a switch-off of the secretory activity of the epididymal corpus by inducing the expression of ERα.
Verderame, M. & Limatola, E. & Scudiero, R. (2016) -
In oviparous vertebrates, vitellogenin (VTG) is the major yolk precursor synthesized in the liver of sexually mature females during the reproductive period. In males, the VTG gene is silent, but it may be activated by estradiol-17β (E2) or estrogen-like substances. Until now, extra-hepatic expression and synthesis of VTG after estrogen exposure has been reported only for aquatic vertebrates. This study demonstrates the ability of testis and epididymis of the terrestrial oviparous lacertid Podarcis sicula to synthesize VTG following E2 exposure. The results of in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry analysis show the presence of both VTG mRNA and protein in these districts besides the known induction in the liver. The possible contemporaneous uptake of the E2-induced hepatic VTG by means of the specific vitellogenin receptor has been also evaluated. Finally, histological analysis shows that the E2-treatment during the mating season impairs spermatogenesis.
In the last years, worldwide organic farming has grown exponentially; as a consequence, the use of animal manure as a soil fertility source has become the principal agricultural choice. However, the use of manure as fertilizer can increase the amount of steroid hormone metabolites in the soil. In southern Italy, lacertidae lizards are the most abundant vertebrate group in agroecosystems and have been identified as potential model species for ecotoxicological studies. The aim of this study was to understand if the manure applied in organic farming has estrogen-like effects in the lizard Podarcis sicula. Adult male lizards were captured in two organic agricultural fields (manure-treated sites) and in an uncultivated field (control site). Lizards from the two organic farms displayed hepatic biosynthetic alterations typical of an estrogenic contamination; hepatocytes contained both vitellogenin and estrogen receptor alpha transcripts and proteins, detected by in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry. The same cells did not show cadmium, lead and metallothionein accumulation, indicative of the lack of inorganic contamination. These findings suggest that exogenous estrogens, arising from the use of manure, could affect the welfare of wild animals and animal breeding, leading to bioaccumulation of estrogens in food chain, with possible risk for human consumers. For this reason, organic farming should implement the use of sustainable practices such as crop rotation to preserve the soil biological activity, rather than organic manure as fertilizer.
Given their strong site fidelity and low mobility, lizards have been identified as potential model species for terrestrial vertebrate ecotoxicology since they can provide useful information about land-based pollution. Lizards can be directly exposed to fertilizers, pesticides and other chemical substances used in agriculture and livestock breeding through various routes: ingestion of soil and contaminated food, dermal exposure, inhalation, maternal transfer to eggs, and absorption by eggs of contaminants from environments. The advantage of using Podarcis sicula as a bioindicator of estrogen pollution is that its reproductive cycle is well known, both in males and females. Males, in particular, are excellent sentinels since they are able to synthesize vitellogenin (VTG) when exposed to an estrogenic environment; hence, VTG is commonly used as a biomarker of pollution from estrogenic compounds, mainly in aquatic or semi-aquatic species. In this chapter, we present data collected using P. sicula as an experimental model for monitoring soil health status in both intensive and organic farming, as well as for the study of damage caused at tissutal and cellular levels following environmental contamination by estrogenic compounds.
Verderame, M. & Limatola, E. & Scudiero, R. (2017) -
Metallothionein (MT) is the main protein involved in the homeostasis of metallic micronutrients and in cellular defence against heavy metals and reactive oxygen species. Found in almost all vertebrate tissues, MT presence and localization in the testis has been controversial. In the present study, by using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemical analysis we assessed the localization of both MT transcript and protein in Podarcis sicula testes during two different phases of the reproductive cycle: the autumnal resumption and the spring-early summer mating period. In addition, with the same methodological approach, we verified the effect of estradiol-17ß and nonylphenol, a potent xenoestrogen, on MT expression and synthesis. These results, the first collected in a non-mammalian oviparous vertebrate, demonstrated that the expression profile of MT mRNA and protein changes during the reproductive cycle. In the fall resumption, MT transcripts are absent in spermatogonia and present in all the other cells of tubules, including spermatozoa; vice versa, the MT protein is evident only in spermatozoa and somatic cells. In the mating period, both MT transcripts and proteins are present in spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids, whereas in the spermatozoa only the proteins are detected, thus suggesting that the MTs translated in the earlier germinal stages are stored up to spermatozoa. Results also demonstrated that in lizard testis the expression of MT gene undergoes a cell-specific regulation after estrogenic exposure; the possible role and the mechanism by which this regulation occurs have been discussed.
Verderame, M. & Prisco, M. & Andreuccetti, P. & Aniello, F. & Limatola, E. (2011) -
Abstract Endocrine Disruptor Chemicals (EDCs) with estrogen-like properties i.e nonylphenol (NP) induce vitellogenin (VTG) synthesis in males of aquatic and semi-aquatic specie. In the oviparous species VTG is a female-specific oestrogen dependent protein. Males are unable to synthesize VTG except after E2 treatment. This study aimed to verify if NP, administered via food and water, is able to induce the expression of VTG even in males of vertebrates with a terrestrial habitat such as the lizard Podarcis. By means of ICC, ISH, W/B and ELISA we demonstrated that NP induces the presence of VTG in the plasma and its expression in the liver. VTG, undetectable in untreated males, reaches the value of 4.34 μg/μl in the experimental ones. Expression analysis and ISH in the liver showed that an NP-polluted diet also elicits the expression of ERα in the liver which is known to be related to VTG synthesis in Podarcis.
Verderame, M. & Scudiero, R. (2017) -
In the last years, the hormonal balance is threatened by the interferences of substances with hormone-like action (endocrine disruptor chemicals, EDCs) that may harm animal reproduction. Most EDCs are resistant to environmental degradation and are considered ubiquitous contaminants. EDCs may have synthetic or natural origins. Pesticides used in intensive agriculture contain large amounts of chemicals with estrogenic properties, such as the alkylphenol nonylphenol (NP). Besides, animal feeding operations are important sources of natural estrogen metabolites introduced into the environment through manure application in organic farming. In both cases, EDCs can reach animals, including humans particularly at risk due to their position in the food chain. This is the reason for which it is important to use terrestrial vertebrates as sentinels in soil biomonitoring programmes. Today, the most validated biomarker of estrogenic exposure is the expression in male liver of the vitellogenin (VTG), an estrogen-dependent glycolipophosphoprotein naturally expressed only in the liver of oviparous females during the reproductive season. This report summarizes the data available on the EDC-dependent expression and the synthesis of VTG in male vertebrates, highlighting our latest studies that demonstrate the ability of testis and epididymis of the lacertid Podarcis sicula to synthesize VTG following estrogenic exposure. These findings provide, for the first time, evidence on an extrahepatic expression and synthesis of VTG in a terrestrial vertebrate and lay the groundwork for a new value of the VTG as a biomarker of environmental contamination. In addition, the results open a new scenario on the role of VTG in cells other than oocytes.
Verderame, M. & Scudiero, R. (2019) -
The terrestrial lizard Podarcis siculus is the most abundant reptile in Italy, where is considered a ubiquitous species. This lizard is widely distributed from the islands to the Apennines, from cultivated fields to anthropized areas such as gardens and city parks. For this reason, these animals are exposed to extensive physical and chemical stresses, as well as to the possibility of coming into contact with industrial pollutants and substances used in agricultural practices. Here, we review the health status of lizard specimens inhabiting natural non-anthropized areas and fields devoted to organic farming, considering the condition of (1) liver, representing the main detoxifying organ, directly influenced by feeding, and (2) gonads, essential for reproduction and, therefore, for the survival of the species. The morphological and biomolecular condition of these organs was then compared with those obtained from lizard specimens experimentally treated with nonylphenol, a co-formulant of many insecticides and plant protection products widely used in conventional farming, known to have harmful estrogenic effects. Taken together, data demonstrate that lizards inhabiting manured soil are in good health status and show a regular morphology of liver, testis, and ovary. Animals are found to be less exposed to the toxic heavy metals cadmium and lead if compared with specimens collected in areas not devoted to agriculture, but probably more exposed to vehicular traffic. However, manure, as well as nonylphenol, exerts a xeno-estrogenic effect, particularly evident in male specimens, more sensitive to estrogenic contamination.
The potential toxicity of glyphosate, a widely used broad-spectrum herbicide, is currently a great matter of debate. As vertebrate insectivores, lizards protect plants from herbivorous insects increasing plant biomass via the trophic cascade and represent an important link between invertebrates and higher predators. A negative effect of glyphosate on lizards’ survival could have major impacts at the ecological levels. In this study, we investigated the effects of the exposure to low doses of glyphosate on the liver of the wall lizard Podarcis siculus, a suitable bioindicator of soil pollution. Two different doses of pure glyphosate (0.05 and 0.5 μg/kg body weight) were orally administered every other day for 3 weeks to sexually mature males and females. The results demonstrated that both doses, despite being very low, are toxic for the liver that showed clear signs of suffering, regardless of sex. The histological analysis provided a scenario of severe hepatic condition, which degenerated until the appearance of fibrotic formations. The morphological observations were consistent with a loss of liver physiological functions. Immunocytochemical investigations allowed us to detect an involvement of antioxidant/cytoprotective proteins, such as superoxide dismutase 1 (Cu/Zn SOD, known as SOD1), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1), metallothionein (MT), and tumor suppressor protein 53, (p53) suggesting that the liver was trying to react against stress signals and damage induced by glyphosate. Finally, in situ hybridization and Real-Time PCR analysis showed the upregulation of estrogen receptor α and vitellogenin gene expression, thus demonstrating the xenoestrogenic action of glyphosate. The imbalance of the hormonal homeostasis could threaten the lizards’ reproductive fitness and survival, altering the trophic cascade.
Verderame, M. & Scudiero, R. & Limatola, E. (2017) -
Spermatogenesis is a fascinating biological process aiming to generate haploid spermatozoa from diploid spermatogonia through a specific hormonal network between gonadotropins and steroids. Increasing evidence suggests that the primary female sex hormone estrogen plays an active role in this process. This research points out on the role of estrogen during lizard spermatogenesis by using three experimental approaches: (1) exposure to an analogue of nonsteroidal estrogen as Clomiphene citrate that acts both as estrogen agonist and antagonist; (2) exposure to the gonadotropin FSH; and (3) exposures to FSH followed by Clomiphene. Histological and immunohistochemical results demonstrate that in the lizard Podarcis sicula during the mating period, Clomiphene as well as FSH determines the breakdown of spermatogenesis and the epididymal regression, presumably through estrogens input as indirectly demonstrated by the appearance of ERα and vitellogenin in the liver. The ability of Clomiphene to restore the gonadal natural condition after FSH treatment is also demonstrated. Finally, data indicate that lizard testis and epididymis control their morphophysiology regulating the intracellular presence of ERα.
Verdu Castro, J. & Zaldivar Ezquerro, C. & Fuente Villar, M. Encarnacion & Irastorza Aldasoro, M.T. (1986) -
Verdú Ricoy, J. (2014) -
Verdú-Ricoy, J. & Carranza, S. & Salvador, A. & Busack, S.D. & Diaz, J.A. (2010) -
Relationships among Psammodromus algirus populations from the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa, including recently described P. jeanneae and P. manuelae, were estimated from mitochondrial DNA gene sequences. This enlarged data set confirmed the presence of two divergent eastern and western mitochondrial DNA lineages on the Iberian Peninsula, the distributions for which are separated by a narrow zone of contact across the centre of the Peninsula. Paratypes of P. jeanneae and topotypes of P. manuelae represent southern and northern clades of the western lineage, respectively, making P. algirus paraphyletic. This, together with the low level of allozymic and mitochondrial DNA substructuring within western populations, is not sufficient to retain P. jeanneae and P. manuelae as valid species, and we relegate them to the status of junior synonyms of P. algirus.
Verdú-Ricoy, J. & Carranza, S. & Salvador, A. & Busack, S.D. & Díaz, J.A. (2010) -
Verdú-Ricoy, J. & Iraeta, P. & Salvador, A. & Diaz, J.A. (2014) -
We experimentally studied the effects of genetic legacy (eastern vs. western phylogeographic lineage) and population of origin (lowland vs. highland) on the sensitivity of lizard embryos and juveniles to incubation temperature and moisture among four populations of the lacertid Psammodromus algirus. Incubation time was longer at lower temperature, increased slightly at higher moisture, and shorter for highland than for lowland females. Eggs incubated at 24°C produced larger, heavier and shorter tailed hatchlings than those incubated at 32°C. Western juveniles survived better during their first month of life than eastern ones, and juveniles incubated at 32°C survived better than those incubated at 24°C; survivorship was lowest for 24°C hatchlings from the eastern, lowland population. Because juveniles incubated at 32°C grew more rapidly, after 1 month they had compensated their initial size disadvantage. Juveniles incubated at 80% moisture were larger and/or heavier than those incubated at 10% moisture both at hatching and after 1 month. Our results show that although incubation temperature was the main source of phenotypic variation, not all its effects were evident at hatching. Because western juveniles were more tolerant to incubation at low temperature than eastern ones, we suggest that such differences may have limited the westward expansion of the eastern lineage.
Verdu-Ricoy, J. &Carranza, S. & Salvador, A. & Busack, S.D. & Diaz, J.A. (2010) -
Verducci, D. (2020) -
The Versiliana Park hosts a varied plant and animal biodiversity. The herpetofauna of the Versiliana Park is represented by 3 Amphibian and 8 Reptile species: 3 Anurans (Bufo bufo, Hyla intermedia, Pelophylax esculentus complex), 1 allochtonous Chelonian (Trachemys scripta) and 7 Squamates (5 lizards, Tarentola mauritanica, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis siculus, Anguis veronensis and 2 Snakes, Hierophis viridiflavus, Natrix helvetica). The presence of two further species, reported in the past (Lissotron vulgaris, Rana dalmatina), is to be confirmed.
Verducci, D. (2021) -
This work summarizes the published and unpublished news about the presence in the Italian geographical and political territory of the species of amphibians and reptiles that are not indicated as such in the most recent publications on the subject (Sindaco et al., 2006; Lanza et al., 2007; Lanza et al., 2009; Corti et al., 2010) or which, for editorial reasons, have been summarized (Di Nicola et al., 2019).
Verducci, D. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2015) -
The area called “Padule di Bientina” (Bientina marshy area) is a semi natural area, originated as a large lake at the end of XI century (Bientina Lake), later drainaged and reduced in surface for agricultural purposes. The whole area, the Bientina plain, is characterized by human settlements, some rectilinear artificial canals and some small remains of the original marshy and wooded area. A few of them are under protection, like the “Oasi del Bottaccio”, one of the WWF Italian Oases and Bosco di Tanali, a provincial protected area. The herpetofauna of the Bientina marshy area is represented by seven Amphibian and 10 Reptile species: two Urodeles (Lissotriton vulgaris, Triturus carnifex), five Anurans (Bufo bufo, Bufotes viridis, Hyla intermedia, Rana dalmatina, Pelophylax bergeri), one allochtonous Chelonian (Trachemys scripta) and nine Squamates (six lizards, Tarentola mauritanica, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis siculus, Anguis veronensis, Chalcides chalcides, and three snakes, Hierophis viridiflavus, Natrix natrix, Zamenis longissimus). Despite the small surface of preserved natural habitats, the Bientina marshy area hosts all the species considered typical of hygrophilous and mesophylous woods and of ecotonal areas associated to such a prevailing habitat. On the whole, comparing recorded data with regional herpetological atlas, the “Padule di Bientina” herpetofauna represents about 100% of Amphibians and 62% of the Reptiles of the northernTuscany plain species and the 37% of Amphibians and the 55% of Reptiles of all the known species of Tuscany, once more underlining the fundamental role of protected natural areas, especially in highly anthropized regions.
Vergeer, L. & Marijnissen, J. (1986) -
Vergner, I. (1991) -
Vergun, A.A. & Girnyk, A.E. & Korchagin, V.I. & Semyenova, S.K. & Arakelyan, M.S. & Danielyan, F.D. & Murphy, R.W. & Ryskov, A.P. (2020) -
Background: The hybridization of female D. raddei and male D. valentini gave rise to the parthenogenetic Caucasian rock lizard Darevskia unisexualis. A previously identified genetic polymorphism in the species consisted of one common and two allozyme clones. Analysis of microsatellites and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from the three species yields estimates of clonal diversity and tests the hypothesis of a single origin for D. unisexualis. Results: Genotyping and sequencing of four microsatellite-containing loci for 109 specimens of D. unisexualis, 17 D. valentini, and 45 D. raddei nairensis identified 12 presumptive clones, including one widespread and 11 rare clones. Most individuals in some localities had a rare clone. Clone-specific alleles in D. unisexualis were compared with those of the parental species. The results inferred a single hybridization event. Post-formation mutations best explain the less common clones. Conclusions: Interspecific analyses identify alleles inherited by D. unisexualis from its bisexual ancestors. SNP analyses fail to reject the hypothesis of a single interspecific origin of D. unisexualis, followed by microsatellite mutations in this initial clone. Microsatellites detect higher clonal diversity in D. unisexualis compared to allozymes and identify the likely origins of clones. Our approach may be applicable to other unisexual species whose origins involve interspecific hybridization.
Vergun, A.A. & Markelova, E.S. & Martirosyan, I.A. (2007) -
Vergun, A.A. & Martirosyan, I.A. & Semyenova, S.K. & Omelchenko, A.V. & Petrosyan, V.G. & Lazebny, O.E. & Tokarskaya, O.N. & Korchagin, V.I. & Ryskov, A.P. (2014) -
The all-female Caucasian rock lizard species Darevskia dahli and other parthenogenetic species of this genus reproduce normally via true parthenogenesis. Previously, the genetic diversity of this species was analyzed using allozymes, mitochondrial DNA, and DNA fingerprint markers. In the present study, variation at three microsatellite loci was studied in 111 specimens of D. dahli from five populations from Armenia, and new information regarding clonal diversity and clone formation in D. dahli was obtained that suggests a multiple hybridization origin. All individuals but one were heterozygous at the loci studied. Based on specific allele combinations, 11 genotypes were identified among the individuals studied. Individuals with the same genotypes formed distinct clonal lineages: one major clone was represented by 72 individuals, an intermediate clone was represented by 21 individuals, and nine other clones were rare and represented by one or several individuals. A new approach based on the detection and comparison of genotype-specific markers formed by combinations of parental-specific markers was developed and used to identify at least three hybridization founder events that resulted in the initial formation of one major and two rare clones. All other clones, including the intermediate and seven rare clones, probably arose through postformation microsatellite mutations of the major clone. This approach can be used to identify hybridization founder events and to study clone formation in other unisexual taxa.
Verissimio, C. & Spaneli, V. & Koutsoupakis, S. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Lymberakis, P. (2007) -
Podarcis cretensis is a recently redescribed species of the genus, endemic to the island of Crete and satellite islands. Its distribution on the island is very particular: On Crete it is found only on the ¼ western part of the island and not on the major satellite islands whereas in eastern Crete it is present only on satellite islands. As in other Podarcis species, it exhibits high diversity and great morphological plasticity, which have led to the description of 7 subspecies of the taxon (formerly P. erhardii) in Crete. Here we study the morphological relationships of 6 populations from western Crete under the light of the new phylogenetic relationships. The 6 populations belong to 3 of the formerly described subspecies. They are distributed in various biotopes: from sandy to rocky, from the north and south part of the island and from sea level to 1000m a.s.l. We compared 18 morphological characters (11 metric and 7 pholidotic) of these populations in accordance with indications from the relevant literature. Multivariate analyses techniques were conducted to detect the characters that most differentiate sexes and populations. We compare the results to the formerly recognized subspecies. Moreover we compare the results with the current phylogenetic data as to see if the groupings of populations according to molecular analyses are corroborated by morphological data.
Verissimo, C. & Carretero, M.A. (2007) -
The intraspecific variation of preferred body temperatures (Tp) was analysed in the lacertid Podarcis vaucheri which in Morocco is restricted to the Mediterranean and mountain areas. Adult males and females lizards were collected during spring 2006 in Ketama, Rif Massif (34º54’N, 4º34’W; 1549 m). Lizards were kept in individual terraria for less than two weeks (to prevent acclimation) with food and water provided ad libitum and under a natural regime of light and temperature. Each lizard was measured (SVL) and individually exposed to a photothermal gradient at ten time intervals. Tp varied with lizard condition (non-pregnant females ≥ males ≥ pregnant females) and time of the day. Individual females tended to increase their Tp after egg-laying. Tp seems to reflect a dependence on the reproductive condition as supported by previous studies on other lacertids.
Veríssimo, C.V. & Carretero, M.A. (2009) -
Preferred body temperatures (Tp) were analysed in the lacertid Podarcis vaucheri, from S. Iberia and N. Africa which has been recently revalidated as a full species within the P. hispanica complex. Adult lizards from a Moroccan population were exposed to a thermal gradient and Tp was measured at ten time intervals. Intraspecific Tp variation due to sex and reproductive condition (Tp: non-pregnant females
Vernet, R. & Castanet, J. & Báez, M. (1993) -
Vernet, R. & Castanet, J. & Baez, M. (1995) -
Water fluxes and daily energy expenditure (DEE) of Gallotia galloti, G. stehlini and G. atlantica, were estimated over a three-year period using the doubly-labelled water (DLW) method. Water influx varied little between seasons and between sexual categories. Juveniles tended to have higher water fluxes in spring in all three species; after a dry period the water turnover tended to decrease for all sexes in G. galloti and G. stehlini, whereas little variation was observed for G. atlantica. The average water influx, combined for all periods, was 46.27, 50.97 and 38.20 ml H²O.kg-¹ d-¹ for the three species respectively; only the last value differs significantly from the remaining two. The mean DEE, for all periods combined, were 189.7, 179.4 and 146.5 H g-¹ d-¹ for the three species respectively. As for water turnover, only the value for G. atlantica differed significantly. These data suggest that: G. atlantica may be better adaptated to maintain homeostasis during dry periods and that differences in interspecific DEE can also explained by others factors than differences in habitat, climatic conditions, daily profiles of activity or body temperatures. We suspect that the incident of intraspecific competition has more importance in G. atlantica than in the two other species.
Vershinin, V.L. (2007) -
Vershinin, V.L. & Korbut, D.E. (2013) -
The analysis of morphological features of viviparous lizard populations in the Ural region has not revealed the presence of clines in variability of femoral pores number or sexual dimorphism increase. The comparison of head pholidosis parameters has shown that the similarity of spectra is characteristic for the populations which are distant from each other, whereas for geographically close populations the similarity of spectra is less than 50%. It was found that there were differences of spectra only at comparison of the qualitative characteristics. It is supposed that morphological divergence in Z. vivipara mostly depends on a genetic specific of populations and local habitat conditions and not so much on the geographical remoteness.
Вершинин, В.Л. & Корбут, Д.Е. (2013) -
Анализ морфологических особенностей ряда популяций живородящей ящерицы Уральского региона не выявил наличия клинальной изменчивости по таким признакам, как число бедренных пор и усиление полового димор- физма. Сравнение признаков фолидоза головы показало, что сходство спектров часто характерно для удален- ных друг от друга популяций, в то время как в географически близких популяциях оно составляет менее 50%. Дистанцированность по рассматриваемым признакам отмечена только при сравнении качественных характери- стик спектров изменчивости. Предполагается, что морфологическая дивергенция Z. vivipara, в большей мере зависит от генетического своеобразия популяций и локальных условий местообитаний, чем от географической удаленности.
Vervust, B. (2011) -
Vervust, B. & Damme, R. van (2009) -
Vervust, B. & Dongen, S. van & Grbac, I. & Damme, R. van (2008) -
The use of fluctuating asymmetry (FA) as a measure of developmental instability, and its relationship to stress and fitness, is highly controversial. Here, we present results from a preliminary study comparing levels of asymmetry in various characteristics between two island populations of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis sicula), one of which was recently founded. We relate individual asymmetry to several measures of physiological performance. Levels of FA varied clearly among the traits studied. Repeatability of FA estimates was high for meristic traits but low for metric traits. Levels of FA were on average higher in the newly founded population. We found a significant decrease in exertion (time until exhaustion by continuously chasing) with increasing levels of fluctuating asymmetry (i.e., more symmetric individuals had a higher exertion). Speed of locomotion showed a positive trend with increasing FA. No relationship was found between individual levels of FA and bite force. These results suggest that FA estimates, based on the accurate measurement of several traits, may be useful in explaining differences in developmental stability and physiological performance at the individual and population level.
Vervust, B. & Dongen, S. van & Grbac, I. & Damme, R. van (2009) -
1. Ecological interactions that involve aggressive confrontations between animals are important in shaping the evolution of morphology, behaviour and life history. However, as such confronta- tions are rarely witnessed, direct quantification of the intensity of these processes in natural pop- ulations is notoriously difficult. While the utilization of the frequency of non-lethal injuries is fraught with difficulties, it may provide information concerning different types of interaction, such as predation, intraspecific aggression and interspecific interference competition. 2. In this paper, we report on an exceptionally large difference in toe loss incidence between two populations of Podarcis sicula lizards living on small, neighbouring islands in the Adriatic Sea. We caught 900 lizards and recorded the number and location of missing toes. Subsequently, we investigated five non-mutually exclusive hypotheses concerning differences in bite force capacity, bone strength, predation intensity, average age and intraspecific aggression that may provide proximate explanations for the observed differences in injury frequencies. 3. Bite force differences differed considerably between the populations, but bone strength was found to be stronger in the populations with a higher frequency of natural scars. Predation pres- sure clearly differed between the populations, but we found higher injury rates under predation relaxation. 4. Our results indicate that density and consequently an increased intraspecific competition is the most likely explanation for the observed high frequencies of injuries. We suggest that the inten- sity of toe amputation between lizard populations may be a useable indirect indication for the intensity of intraspecific competition. 5. This study shows how a combination of morphological, physiological, behavioural and eco- logical measurements can be used to test assumptions implicit to alternative explanations of an observed phenomenon. Such tests can reveal how likely each of these explanations is, even if the processes leading to the phenomenon are difficult to observe directly.
Vervust, B. & Grbac, I. & Brečko, J. Tvrtković, N. & Van Damme, R. (2009) -
In this paper we examine the distribution of amphibians and reptiles over the islands of the newly founded Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park (Lastovsko oto~je), Croatia. On several field trips between 1996 and 2008, we encountered five species of lizards (Podarcis sicula, P. melisellensis, Dalmatolacerta oxycephala, Hemidactylus turcicus and Pseudopus apodus), one species of snake (Dolichophis caspius), one species of sea turtle (Caretta caretta) and one species of toad (Bufo viridis). We confirm literature data on the presence of some of these species on different islands of the archipelago, and add distributional records for several other islands and islets. Logistic regression analyses show that the variables predicting presence/absence from different islands vary among species. Within species, populations from different islands noticeably vary in body size and shape, scalation, dorsal and ventral coloration, behaviour and density. This observation adds to the value of the study area as a »natural laboratory« for future research into the ecology and evolution of island populations. Although most species seem to be doing well presently, we list a number of possible hazards and concerns.
Vervust, B. & Grbac, I. & Van Damme, R. (2007) -
We investigated the possible role of variation in predation pressure in the phenotypic divergence of two island populations of the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis sicula . In 1971, ten adult specimens from the island of Pod Kopis ˇte (Adriatic Sea, Croatia) were transported to the island of Pod Mrcˇaru, 3.5 km east, where they founded a new population. Although the two islands resemble each other in general physiognomy (size, elevation, microclimate) and in the absence of terrestrial predators, lizards from the newly established population are now on average larger and have shorter hind limbs. They also exhibit lower maximal sprint speed as measured on a racetrack, and fatigue faster when chased in a torus track. In the field, lizards from the original population of Pod Kopis ˇte respond to a simulated predatory attack by fleeing at larger approach distances and by running further from the predator than lizards from Pod Mrcˇaru. These changes in morphology, behaviour and performance may result from the relaxed predation intensity on the latter island. Our analysis of the structural features of the microhabitats suggests that the vegetation on Pod Mrcˇaru offers more protection to lizards. Also, plasticine models of lizards, laid out on the islands, less often exhibited signs of being attacked by birds on Pod Mrcˇaru than on Pod Kopis ˇte. Our findings provide an example of how changes in (possibly a single) environmental factor may simultaneously produce responses in behaviour, morphology and whole-animal physiology, and this on a surprisingly small spatial and temporal scale.
Vervust, B. & Lailvaux, S.P. & Grbac, I. & Van Damme, R. (2008) -
Biologists have developed a number of simple metrics to assess the health and energetic status of individual organisms and populations. While these condition indices have been widely used to address questions in evolutionary ecology and conservation biology, the ability of such indices to predict ecologically relevant locomotor performance abilities remains unknown. We show here that the functional links between six commonly used morphological condition indices and locomotor performance in two populations of Adriatic lizards (Podarcis sicula) are weak at best. Indeed, no indices consistently predict either maximum sprint speed or maximum exertion across sexes, seasons or populations. These results cast doubt on the ecological relevance of morphological condition indices in terms of locomotor performance, measured in laboratory conditions, at least in this species. We urge caution in using condition indices as proxies for individual physiological or phenotypic quality in ecological and evolutionary studies.
Vervust, B. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. & Van Damme, R. (2010) -
Dietary shifts have played a major role in the evolution of many vertebrates. The idea that the evolution of herbivory is physiologically constrained in squamates is challenged by a number of observations that suggest that at least some lizards can overcome the putative physiological difficulties of herbivory on evolutionary and even ecological timescales. We compared a number of morphological and physiological traits purportedly associated with plant consumption between two island populations of the lacertid lizard Podarcis sicula. Previous studies revealed considerable differences in the amount of plant material consumed between those populations. We continued the investigation of this study system and explored the degree of divergence in morphology (dentition, gut morphology), digestive performance (gut passage time, digestive efficiency), and ecology (endosymbiont density). In addition, we also performed a preliminary analysis of the plasticity of some of these modifications. Our results confirm and expand earlier findings concerning divergence in the morphology of feeding structures between two island populations of P. sicula lizards. In addition to the differences in skull dimensions and the prevalence of cecal valves previously reported, these two recently diverged populations also differ in aspects of their dentition (teeth width) and the lengths of the stomach and small intestine. The plasticity experiment suggests that at least some of the changes associated with a dietary shift toward a higher proportion of plant material may be plastic. Our results also show that these morphological changes effectively translate into differences in digestive performance: the population with the longer digestive tract exhibits longer gut passage time and improved digestive efficiency.
Vervust, B. & Van Loy, H. & Van Damme, R. (2011) -
Counter-adaptations of predators towards their prey are a far less investigated phenomenon in predator-prey interactions. Caudal autotomy is generally considered an effective last-resort mechanism for evading predators. However, in victim-exploiter relationships, the efficacy of a strategy will obviously depend on the antagonist’s ability to counter it. In the logic of the predator-prey arms race, one would expect predators to develop attack strategies that minimize the chance of autotomy of the prey and damage on the predator. We tested whether avian predators preferred grasping lizards by their head. We constructed plasticine models of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) and placed them in natural habitat of the species. Judging from counts of beak marks on the models, birds preferentially attack the head and might also avoid the tail and limb regions. While a preference for the head might not necessarily demonstrate tail and limb avoidance, this topic needs further exploration because it suggests that even unspecialised avian predators may see through the lizard’s trick-of-the-tail. This result may have implications for our understanding of the evolution of this peculiar defensive system and the loss or decreased tendency to shed the tail on island systems with the absence of terrestrial predators.
Verwaijen, D. & Van Damme, R. (2007) -
1.We investigated the association between field body temperatures (T b ), field air temperatures (T a ), and their differences (Δ) with measurements of foraging activity (percentage of time moving (PTM), number of movements per minute (MPM) and proportion of prey attacked while moving (PAM)) for 25 species of lacertid lizards.2.Lizards active at relatively high field body temperatures tended to have higher PTM and PAM values. We found no association between temperatures and MPM. The difference Δ did not co-vary with PTM and MPM, but showed a positive trend with PAM.3.Our results seem robust with regard to the assumptions of different models of evolution and to the phylogenetic trees used.
Evolutionary changes in foraging style are often believed to require concurrent changes in a complex suite of morphological, physiological, behavioural and life-history traits. In lizards, species from families with a predominantly sit-and-wait foraging style tend to be more stocky and robust, with larger heads and mouths than species belonging to actively foraging families. Here, we test whether morphology and foraging behaviour show similar patterns of association within the family Lacertidae. We also examine the association of bite force abilities with morphology and foraging behaviour. Lacertid lizards exhibit considerable interspecific variation in foraging indices, and we found some evidence for a covariation between foraging style and body shape. However, the observed relationships are not always in line with the predictions. Also, the significance of the relationships varies with the evolutionary model used. Our results challenge the idea that foraging style is evolutionarily conservative and invariably associated with particular morphologies. It appears that the flexibility of foraging mode and its morphological correlates varies among lizard taxa.
We assess associations between chemosensory capacity and foraging mode within lacertid lizards. Species of Lacertidae differ considerably in indices of foraging mode, and therefore seem well suited to test the adaptive nature of a coupling between foraging and sensory ecology. We observed tongue-flick (TF) rates of members from eight species in the field and in experimental conditions with no prey stimuli, with chemical stimuli, with visual stimuli and with both chemical and visual stimuli. All species increased TF rates in response to both purely visual and purely chemical prey cues, and the increase was most pronounced when both types of stimuli were offered simultaneously. Absolute TF rates in experimental conditions differed considerably among species, and species means obtained in experimental situations correlated closely with those observed in the field. Species that spend a relatively large amount of their time budget actively searching for food tend to use their vomeronasal system more frequently. Although all species in our study retained the capacity of recognizing prey chemicals, our data corroborate the idea of a functional link between an active foraging style and the usage of chemical information.
Verwaijen, D. & Van Damme, R. (2008) -
Space usage by animals may be influenced by a range of factors. In this study we investigate whether foraging behaviour affects the home range size of lizards. Two distinct tactics of foraging have been recognized in predators: sit-and-wait foraging (SW) and active foraging (AF). Foraging activity level of a data set of lizard species, mainly compiled from literature, is compared with their home range sizes. Two opposite predictions can be made about foraging in connection with home range area: on the one hand, SW species may exhibit larger home ranges due to their mating system; on the other hand, AF species have higher metabolic energy and thus food requirements and can be expected to have larger home ranges that have to yield this food. This study shows that percentage of the time moving (as an index of foraging mode) correlates positively with home range, even after correcting for body mass, and these patterns remain when phylogenetic relationships are taken into account. We thus conclude that home range areas parallel activity levels in lizards.
Foraging strategy is often considered to play a central role in moulding diverse aspects of an animal`s general biology. Active foragers should have greater locomotor endurance, allowing high movement activity rates, while sit-and-waiting foragers may be better adapted to sprinting, allowing catching prey by a quick attack from an ambush site, and going with specific predator escape tactics. In this study we investigate these predicted patterns in a set of lacertid lizard species. There is considerable variation in foraging activity within Lacertidae, which allows the close investigation of the co-evolution of the traits considered. We found a tendency of positive correlation of foraging measures (PTM, percentage of time moving; MPM, number of movements per minute) with laboratory measured endurance capacity. However, the relationship of foraging measures with maximal sprint speed remains less clear. MPM correlates negatively with maximal sprint speed, but PTM does not. When sprint speed was corrected for body size, no correlations were found at all.
Apart from certain species of the African clade, the lizard family Lacertidae has generally been described as consisting of active foragers. We made quantitative field observations of 14 species of lacertid lizards, mainly belonging to the more basal Eurasian clade. Our data show that sit-and-wait foraging is much more widespread in Lacertidae than previously alleged. We also investigated the influence of weather and times of day on foraging activity levels and conclude that for comparative purposes observations should be restricted to circumstances that are optimal for activity. We did not find sex differences in foraging behavior.
Verwaijen, D. & Van Damme, R. & Herrel, A. (2002) -
1. Relationships between morphology, bite force capacity, prey handling efficiency and trophic niche were explored in two sympatric species of lacertid lizards, Podarcis melisellensis (Braun 1877) and Lacerta oxycephala Duméril & Bibron 1839. 2. Head shape showed little variation, but head size (absolute and relative to snoutvent length, SVL) differed between species and sexes. Males have larger heads than females, both absolute and relative to their SVL. In absolute terms, male P. melisellensis have larger heads than male L. oxycephala, but the reverse case was true for the females. Relative to SVL, L. oxycephala have larger heads than P. melisellensis. 3. Bite force capacity was estimated by having the lizards bite on two metal plates, connected to a piezoelectric force transducer. Differences in maximal bite force between species and sexes paralleled differences in absolute head size. Differences in body size and head size explain the higher bite force of males (compared with females), but not the higher bite force of P. melisellensis (compared with L. oxycephala). Among individual lizards, bite force correlated with body size and head size. 4. Prey handling efficiency, estimated by the time and number of bites needed to subdue a cricket in experimental conditions, also showed intersexual and interspecific variation. This variation corresponded to the differences in maximal bite capacity, suggesting that bite force is a determining factor in prey handling. Among individual lizards, both estimates of handling efficiency correlated with maximal bite force capacity. 5. Faecal pellet analyses suggested that in field conditions, males of both sexes select larger and harder prey than females. There was no difference between the species. The proportion of hard-bodied and large-sized prey items found in a lizard`s faeces correlated positively with its bite force capacity. 6. It is concluded that differences in head and body size, through their effect on bite force capacity, may affect prey selection, either directly, or via handling efficiency.
Veselý, M. & Jablonski, D. (2018) -
Když jsme na počátku milénia začínali studovat parazitofaunu, morfologické charakteristiky a početnost ještěrky zední (Podarcis muralis) v opuštěných lomech Horní a Dolní Kamenárka ve Štramberku na Novojičínsku (viz také Živa 2006, 6: 269–271), v pozadí všech prováděných výzkumů stála otázka, zda je tato populace na Moravě původní, nebo vysazená. Odpověď na to, zda ještěrka zední patří k biogeograficky původním, nebo nepůvodním druhům na území České republiky, je podstatná, protože může hrát roli při stanovení ochranářských priorit, pohledu na historické šíření druhu nebo celkové biogeografické významnosti našeho území pro jiné teplomilné druhy fauny.
Vetere, A. (2020) -
Vez Garzón, M. et al. (2023) -
Biological invasions are one of the main causes of vertebrate extinction in insular systems. Many of the species found in these environments are endemic and key species for the ecosystems, and have a very important ecological and cultural function, which could be threatened by the introduction of invasive species. This is the case on the island of Ibiza. Currently, the Ibiza wall lizard (Podarcis pityusensis) is being seriously threatened by the introduction of the horseshoe whip snake (Hemorrhois hippocrepis) from the mainland. Due to the predation pressure that the expansion of this invasive snake exerts on the Ibiza wall lizard, many lizard populations have started to become locally extinct in areas where they were once very common. Despite this situation, there could be a solution for these lizards in places commonly negatively associated with biodiversity: urban areas. In this study, we aim to analyse the function of urban areas as possible urban refuges for the Ibiza wall lizard populations. Through the sampling of urban and periurban areas of 18 localities distributed along the island of Ibiza, we have studied the effects of the level of urbanisation and the presence of snakes on the abundance of the Ibiza wall lizards. Our results indicate that urban areas act as refuges for this endemic lizard species in areas where the invasive snake thrives. Outside these urban refuges, the abundance of lizards is severely affected by the presence of the horseshoe whip snake. The abundance of Ibiza wall lizards not only seems to benefit from urban areas in snakeinvaded zones, but also seems to have a positive effect in places where lizard populations still persist in noninvaded periurban environments. The conservation and urban ecology implications of these results could be of great interest, both for the island system of Ibiza and for other systems subject to biological invasions, which are expected to become increasingly common over the years due to globalisation.
Viada Sauleda, C. (2002) -
Viada Sauleda, C. (2021) -
Viada, C. (2006) -
Vianden, J. (1952) -
Vianden, J. (1953) -
Vicens, P. (2005) -
The present note must as objetive document diverse appoint- ments of the smalllizard of long tail, Psammodromus algirus, basicaly of the East coast of Majorca, from the observations of the author and of the trustworthy and concrete news of other observers. The provisional conclusion is the existence of at least one population naturalized in the zone that goes of Porto Colom until the coves of Manacor and that can penetrate up to 3 km to the interior of island. They also contribute to data of other small population of lizard of long tail detected to Pollen9a until does about 10 years.
Vicente Liz, A. & Rödder, D. & Vasconcelos Goncalves, D. & Velo-Antón, G. & Fonseca, M.M. & Geniez, P. & Crochet, P.-A. & Brito, J.C. (2021) -
The biogeographic history of the Sahara-Sahel desert is tightly linked to its extreme and fluctuating palaeoclimate and diverse topography. For the mesic species inhabiting the region, coastal areas and the Nile Valley are perceived as the main pathways to disperse through desert habitats, but past connections may have also occurred throughout currently isolated mountain regions. Herein, we test the trans-Sahara mountain corridor hypothesis (i.e., mesic connectivity across Central Sahara highlands) and its role in the diversification of a small terrestrial vertebrate.
Vicente Liz, A. & Rödder, D. & Vasconcelos Goncalves, D. & Velo-Antón, G. & Tarroso, P. & Geniez, P. & Crochet, P.-A. & Carvalho, S.B. & Brito, J.C. (2022) -
Aim: Hyper-arid sandy and rocky fields rank among the least biologically diverse habitats of the desert biome, yet knowledge of local biodiversity patterns is also ex tremely poor. In the Sahara Desert, palaeoclimate oscillations affected the extent of hyper-arid habitats, but it is unclear how these dynamics determined the evolution and distribution of local specialists. Herein, we assessed cryptic diversity, diversification patterns and spatial connectivity within a Sahara-widespread group of dryland adapted lizards. Location: Sahara-Sahel ecoregions. Taxon: Acanthodactylus scutellatus species group. Methods: Inter- and intraspecific phylogenetic structure, divergence times, spatial genetic patterns and cryptic diversity were assessed using nuclear and mitochondrial loci. The effects of topography and land cover on phylogeographic structure and diversity were tested with generalized linear models. Interspecific hybridization was evaluated using 11 microsatellites across the group`s major sympatry zone, predicted based on ecological niche models. Results: Species of Acanthodactylus scutellatus group exhibit Late Miocene origins, followed by extensive intraspecific divergence throughout the Pliocene. The northern Sahara worked as a major diversification hotspot, harbouring a patchwork of small ranged, divergent lineages. These lineages are parapatric or sympatric and present concordant nuclear and mitochondrial differentiation, suggesting species status. Genetic connectivity increases in southern latitudes, with wide-ranging lineages spanning from the Red Sea to the Atlantic coast. Within these potential corridors, mountain outskirts and sand fields in the Sahara interior seemingly acted as origins for recent population expansions. Genetic diversity and connectivity are favoured by terrain roughness and soft-sand cover respectively. Three species inhabit the Atlantic Sahara sympatry zone without evidence of gene flow. Main conclusions: Overlooked species-level diversity within a major specialist group of Sahara drylands exposes the recurrent knowledge shortfalls present in hyper-arid desert environments. Humidity and sandy habitat shifts triggered potential successions of population isolation and re-connectivity, which favoured cladogenesis in northern desert regions and population expansions across southern east–west corridors.
Vicente Liz, A. & Rödder, D. & Vasconcelos Goncalves, D.V. & Velo-Antón, G. & Geniez, P. & Crochet, P.A. & Brito, J.C. (2021) -
Vicente, L. (2001) -
In this paper a discussion of the systematics of the Iberian small lizards assigned to the genus Podarcis is presented. The existence of a common ancestor close to Podarcis murals is suggested, being supported the Klemmer`s model of glacial refuge (1957). It is pled that the Würm`s glaciation was the major determinant of the selective pressures that led to the appearance of all the local forms. The constraints imposed by the last glaciation would have cused the geographival isolation of some populational nulei. These, by means of the founder effect and in the face of different selective pressures, would have originated different genetic units. Amosaic distribution conditioned by a group of selective pressures as the nature of the substratum, altitude, temperature and salinity is suggested for the species of the genus Podarcis. Behaviour is presented as a determinant of these lizards very high morphological variability. Finnally, some approaches, which are believed to contribute to clarify this problem, are suggested.
Vicente, L. & Barbault, R. (2001) -
This study explores the dynamics of a lacertid population in an island environment. The research was conducted on the island of Berlenga, off the Portuguese West Coast. The data collected were compared to previously existing data obtained from mainland areas. The study is interesting for two reasons: first: because it allows observation of Podarcis bocagei berlengensis, an endemic form subjewcted to insular constraints and, second, because the study shows that the knowledge of population dynamics is crucial to the formation of scientifically rooted conservation strategies. Comparison of the population characteristics of Podarcis bocagei berlengensis with those of the mainland species, Podarcis muralis supports the idea that species that are subjected to insular constraints are likely “K-strategist” traits: greater life expectancy, lower rates of population renewal, and very high population densities. The recruitment rate for Podarcis bocagei berlengensis was found to be lower than that of Podarcis muralis, the density of the Podarcis bocagei berlengensis population was higher than the densities of the Podarcis muralis populations, the mortality of eggs was significantyl lower for the island population, and the mortality of adult Podarcis bocagei berlengensis was consistently lower and more constant than the mortality of adult Podarcis muralis. All of these population characteristics indicate that, since its introduction to the island, the population has evoilved to develop some traits of the “K-strategy”. The data also acts as an alarm, providing humans with a way to determine if the population dynamics of Podarcis bocagei berlengensis are being dangerously affected by external factors. It has been noted that the large density decreases seen between 1985 ans 1987 are most likely related to the correlated increases in the yellow-legged-gull populations during the same period. This observation suggests that there is a serious conservation problem that must be addressed on the island of Berlenga. The future of the Podarcis bocagei berlengensis population is unsure unless effective control of the yellow-legged-gull breeding population is achieved.
Vicente, L. & Crespo, E.G. (2001) -
Vicente, L. & Ferreira, M. & Perraud, B. & Antunes, P. & Barbault, R. (2001) -
Vicente, L.A. (1985) -
Vicente, L.A. (1987) -
Vicente, L.A. (1989) -
Vicente, L.A. (1992) -
Vicente, L.A. (1999) -
This paper is divided into two parts: classic knowledge on theory of island biogeography (I) and the evolution of behaviour and morphology under insular constraints (II). The main subjects dealt with are: the problem of small populations (1); the biological definition of an island and the importance of biological studies on islands (2); the species-area effect and its consequences for a nature conservation strategy (3); the equilibrium theory and the weaknesses of this model (4); the founder principle (5); some features of insular populations, such as clutch size, niche enlargement and changes in body size (6); the natural history of colonisation and the success and failure of colonisation (7); the morphological paradigm of island faunas (8) and the evolution of social behaviour under insular constraints – territoriality, altruism, social structure and its relationships with body shape (9).
Vicente, L.A. & Araujo, P.R. & Barbault, R. (1995) -
De nombreux travaux ont été publiés sur le régime alimentaire de lézards insectivores. Très peu cependant font explicitement référence au spectre des proies disponibles, ce qui limite singulièrement leur portée écologique. On étudie ici l`écologie trophique de deux populations de Lacertidés insulaires, Podarcis bocagei berlengensis et Lacerta lepida, en reliant les spectres de proies consommées aux ressources effectivement disponibles. Il apparaît que les deux espèces sont caractérisées par un opportunisme alimentaire marqué, bien qu`il existe une certaine sélection des proies fonction de la facilité de capture. Leur importante différence de taille permet de réduire le chevauchement des niches alimentaires et favorise la coexistence de ces deux espèces dont l`abondance est probablement réglée par une forte compétition intraspécifique.
Vicente, L.A. & Vieira-de-Castro, C. & Paulo, O. (1978) -
Vidal, E. & Medail, F. & Tatoni, T. (1998) -
In the Mediterranean basin, the yellow-legged gull Larus cachinnans has undergone a widespread demographic increase for the past 30 years. Owing to its high ecological adaptability, its aggressive behaviour and its abundance, this gull is often considered to be a pest. The authors review and analyse the impacts of the expansion of the yellow-legged gull on fauna and flora in the Mediterranean area. Despite the relatively limited number of both intensive and general studies, it clearly appears that the population explosion has had a very diverse and severe effect on the ecosystem as a whole (flora, vertebrates, interspecific competition, extinction-colonization processes). The most serious damage has occurred around the largest breeding colonies to the detriment of fragile, rare or very restricted plant and animal species. Thus, from the point of view of fauna and flora conservation, the yellow-legged gull can, for the moment, be considered to be locally superabundant. Control measures are often very onerous and necessitate heavy manpower and material resources. Additional extensive investigations will be necessary to assess the future development of yellow-legged gull populations and their impact on natural environments.
Viegas, A.M. & Vicente, L.A. & Oliveira, M.E. & Crespo, E.G. (1984) -
Viets, B.E. & Ewert, M.A. & Talent, L.G. & Nelson, C.E. (1994) -
Two modes of sex determination occur in squamates: genotypic sex determination (GSD) and temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD). Within each of these two major modes, there are many different variants, or mechanisms. Male heterogamety, female heterogamety, multiple sex chromosome systems, and homomorphic sex chromosome systems are all types of GSD found in squamates. Two patterns of TSD have been reported. Only three snakes have been investigated for their sex-determining mechanisms, each having GSD, although incubation temperature does cause differential mortality and affects post-hatching physiology. Less than 50 lizard species have been investigated, but there is considerable diversity in the sex-determining mechanisms reported thus far. Apparently, TSD (and/or GSD) has evolved multiple times within a given taxon. Presently, both GSD and TSD are found in the Agamidae, Eublepharidae, and Gekkonidae, and possibly in the Iguanidae, Lacertidae, and Varanidae as well. Only GSD has been reported for the Scincidae and Teiidae. Correlations within the Eublepharidae suggest an adaptive explanation for the evolution of sexdetermining mechanisms; a shift from male-larger dimorphism to female-larger (or no sexual size dimorphism) is accompanied by a shift in sex-determining mode. These shifts are in agreement with similar correlations observed in turtles.
Vigh-Teichmann, I. & Vigh, B. & Aros, B. (1976) -
The magnocellular paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei and the parvocellular preoptic and periventricular nuclei have been studied by light and electron microscopy in Emys orbicularis, Lacerta agilis and Elaphe longissima. The ultrastructure of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-contacting neurons was described in the preoptic and periventricular nuclei of Emys and Lacerta species. Single 9×2+0 cilia similar to those of the CSF-contacting dendritic terminals were found on perikarya of non CSF-contacting nerve cells, in all four investigated nuclei. The cilia project from funnel-like invaginations of the perikarya into the intercellular space. In the neurons of the nuclei studied, granular vesicles were found, their size being mainly 1,600 Å in the paraventricular nucleus, about 1,800 Å in the supraoptic nucleus, 1,100 Å in the periventricular nucleus and 800 Å, or up to 1,250 Å in the preoptic nucleus. In general, the neurons possess synapses of the axo-somatic, axo-somatic spine, axo-dendritic and axo-dendritic spine types. In the supraoptic nucleus, multiple interdigitated synapses were observed. Presynaptically, either synaptic vesicles only, or synaptic vesicles and dense core vesicles of different sizes (600 to 800 Å, about 1,100 Å, 1250 Å, and up to 2,000 Å) were found. It is discussed whether the above described 9×2+0 cilia may represent some kind of hypothalamic sensory structure that earlier physiological studies postulated to exist. The ciliated hypothalamic perikarya are considered by the authors to be a more differentiated form of the CSF-contacting neurons. The different types of synapses indicate multilateral connections of the nerve cells of the nuclei studied.
Vigh, B. & Debreceni, K. & Fejér, Z. & Vígh-Teichmann, I. (1997) -
The fine structure of the organ and the localization of the excitatory amino acids glutamate and aspartate were studied in the parietal eye of lizards by postembedding immunoelectron microscopy. The parietal eye contains cone photoreceptor cells, secondary neurons, and ependymal and lens cells. The photoreceptors form long inner and outer segments, some of them being paired as ”twin-photoreceptors” by zonulae adherentes. Perikarya of neurons bear sensory cilia (containing 9×2+0 pairs of tubules) extending into the intercellular space. No neurohormonal terminals are present in the parietal eye. A higher immunoreactivity to glutamate than to aspartate is found in the photoreceptors and in the secondary neurons of the parietal eye. Glutamate immunogold labeling is more intense in the axonal processes of photoreceptors and neurons and in most of the nerve fibers of the parietal nerve running to the brain stem. Weak aspartate and glutamate immunoreactivity can be detected in the ependymal and lens cells. A similar distribution of immunoreactive amino acids is found in the photoreceptors, secondary neurons, and ependymal glial elements of the pineal organ, and retina of the lateral eye of the same animals. Immunoreactive glutamate accumulates in the axons of photoreceptors and secondary neurons of the parietal eye suggesting that this excitatory amino acid acts as a synaptic mediator in the neural efferentation of the organ. Thus, the efferent light-conducting pathway of the parietal organ is similar to that of the pineal organ and lateral eye retina. As the Mullerian cells of the retina, the ependymal and lens cells of the parietal eye and the ependymal-glial cells of the pineal organ may play a role in the metabolism and/or elimination of excitatory amino acids released by photoreceptors.
Vigh, B. & Vígh-Teichmann, I. & Aros, B. (1975) -
The pinealocytes of fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals have been compared with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) contacting neurons. We found that the intraventricular dendrite terminal of the latter resembles the pinealocytic inner segment and that the atypical cilium (9x2+0 tubules) of the CSF contacting neurons is analogous with the outer segment of the pinealocytes, even though the outer segment bears photoreceptor lamellae in lower vertebrates. Regular, but small-sized photoreceptor outer segments were also found on pinealocytes of the chicken. In mammals, too, primitive outer segments are present in the form of 9x2+0 cilia similar to those of CSF contacting dendritic terminals. In the Golgi areas of the perikarya of both cell types there are granulated vesicles which may contain transmitter substances and/or neurohormones. The synaptic junctions of the pinealocytes differ from those of the CSF contacting neurons. Many synapses occur on the latter, but they appear only rarely on pinealocytes. The axons of the CSF contacting neurons form synaptic connections with other cells, or terminate as neurohormonal synaptic hemidesmosomes on the basal lamina of the brain surface. The pinealocyte axons give rise to terminals containing synaptic ribbons. Such ribbons do not occur in CSF contacting neurons. In Lacertilians, we found pinealocytic terminals without ribbons on dendrite-like profiles. On the basis of the ultrastructural comparisons, we consider the CSF contacting neurons and pinealocytes to be very similar, but not to represent precisely the same cell type.
Vigh, B. & Vígh-Teichmann, I. & Koritsánszky, S. & Aros, B. (1970) -
In the spinal cord of reptiles, nerve cells are situated between and below the ependymal cells of the central canal. These neurons are bipolar; their dendrites protrude into the cerebrospinal fluid of the central canal where they build up characteristic nerve endings. These terminals ramify into long, finger-like processes containing oriented filaments. In the terminals, filaments, too, can be found besides of multivesicular and basal bodies, the latter giving rise to long rootlet fibres and cilia. The dendrite of the neurons is connected with the apical part of the neighbouring ependymal cells by desmosome-like structures, and it contains numerous mitochondria and Golgi areas. In the perikarya, enlarged Golgi areas, rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, multivesicular bodies and dense-core vesicles (diameter about 870 Å) are found. The neurite of the nerve cells that passes ependymofugally, contains long mitochondria and neurotubules. On the dendrite, the basis of the distal cell process and the perikarya of the neurons, synapses can be observed; their presynaptic cytoplasm contains synaptic vesicles, mitochondria and some dense-core vesicles (diameter about 800 Å). In one section, 5 to 6 nerve terminals protrude into the central canal in about equal distance from each other. Below these liquor contacting neurons situated intraependymally and described above, there is another type of nerve cells which cytoplasm is more electron lucent and contains larger (diameter about 1,250 Å) granules resembling neurosecretory granules. The ependymal cells of the central canal possess numerous microvilli. The liquor contacting nerve terminals may sometimes contact the Reissner`s fibre directly. It is suggested that the spinal liquor contacting neurons — similarly to those of the liquor contacting territories described up to now — are receptors. In their function, also the Reissner`s fibre may play a role.
Vigle, G.O. (1977) -
Vigliotti, C. (2017) -
Nous avons collecté et comparé les microbiotes et les microbiomes intestinaux de plusieurs dizaines de lézards de l’espèce Podarcis sicula, vivant dans des populations continentales et insulaires croates. L’une de ces populations présentait la particularité d’avoir subi un changement de régime alimentaire récent, une transition d’un régime insectivore vers un régime omnivore (à 80% herbivores) sur une période de 46 ans. Les analyses de diversité menées sur la région V4 de l’ARN ribosomique 16S de ces communautés microbiennes ont révélé que la diversité spécifique (diversité alpha) des microbiotes de lézards omnivores (enrichis en archées méthanogènes) excède celle des microbiotes de lézards insectivores. Les communautés microbiennes des lézards apparaissent en outre faiblement structurées : 5 entérotypes peuvent être identifiés au niveau du phylum, et 3 phyla majoraires (les Bactéroidètes, les Firmicutes et les Protéobactéries) sont présents dans cette espèce. Cependant, ni le régime alimentaire, l’origine spatiale ou temporelle, et le sexe des lézards ne se traduisent par des différences significatives et majeures dans les microbiotes. Des analyses linéaires discriminantes avec effet de la taille des OTUs et des reads des microbiomes fonctionnellement annotés indiquent plutôt que le changement de régime alimentaire de Podarcis sicula est associé à des changements ciblés dans l’abondance de certains composants du microbiote et du microbiome de ces lézards, nous conduisant à formuler l’hypothèse de changements ciblés des communautés microbiennes dans cet holobionte non-modèle, par opposition à des transformations plus radicales. Sur un plan plus théorique, cette thèse propose également des modèles de réseaux (réseaux de similarité de reads et graphes bipartis) susceptibles d’aider à approfondir les analyses des microbiomes.
Vignoli, L. & Cinquegranelli, A. & Lucidi, G. & Luiselli, L. & Salvi, D. (2017) -
Circeo National Park (CNP) is one of the oldest protected areas in Italy. Knowledge of the herpetofauna of CNP is relatively scarce, with the most recent records dating from the 1970s. This gap of knowledge needs to be addressed, considering that this area is one of the last pristine fragments of coastal Mediterranean forest in the Italian Peninsula and potentially hosts high reptile diversity. In this study, we assessed reptile diversity and distribution at the landscape scale, covering all habitats within the park boundary. We performed eld surveys during two sampling sessions in 2004–2005 and in 2009–2010, using 127 cells of 1 km2. We collected 1,471 distribution data points on 16 reptile species. While natural land use categories supported the whole reptile community, urban and agricultural environments hosted about half of the species detected. Reptile distribution was uneven among the natural land categories with 80% of species and all snake species inhabiting the broad-leaved forest category and con rming the expectation of a high herpetological diversity hosted by this last fragment of coastal Mediterranean Forest ecosystem. We discuss the pattern of species distributions in terms of conservation prioritization.
Vignoli, L. & Vuerich, V. & Bologna, M.A. (2012) -
Movement behaviour and dispersal are key processes in biology because they represent a basic phase of the individual life-cycle with spin-offs for population dynamics, genetics and biogeography. Experimental studies have shown that the dispersal rate increases with density for a variety of taxa. Here we investigate the ecological aspects of animal movement and dispersal in a wall lizard species (Podarcis sicula), evaluating the short-term effects of increasing population density and individual conditions. The individual attitude on movement is assessed by comparing immigration between two alternative scenarios of augmentation (moderate starting density) and colonisation (high starting density) by using a connected semi-natural enclosure system. The main result of our study was that the patch density influenced the dispersal activity in the study species. Moreover, the movement rate between patches was sex-biased (higher in males), influenced by tail status, but not dependent upon body size and condition. The patch density drove the movement activity in the studied lizards (augmentation design), but there were also factors at individual level influencing the propensity to move (sex and tail status). In the studied lizard, individual decisions to leave a patch and settle in a new one are both condition-dependent – which means that individuals rely on a set of external cues to adjust their dispersal tactics – and phenotype-dependent – which means that dispersal propensity correlates with a suite of phenotypic traits.
Vignoli, L. & Vuerich, V. & Bologna, M.A. (2015) -
ecological aspects of the dispersal behavior of Common Wall lizards, Podarcis muralis (laurenTi, 1768), were studied under the short-term effects of population density and individual body condition. The individual dis- persal attitude was assessed by comparing emigration rates between two alternative scenarios of (i) moderate start- ing density (augmentation design) and (ii) high starting density (colonization design). The study system consisted of two interconnected seminatural enclosures simulating two habitat patches linked by corridors. The study revealed that the dispersal activity in the study species was influenced by the starting lizard den- sity in the enclosures. The study species showed no dispersal behavior in the augmentation design and a density- dependent pattern in the colonization design. Moreover, males moved more frequently between enclosures than females, whereas neither sex nor body condition influenced the dispersal rate. Podarcis muralis showed behav- ioral similarity with P. siculus (raFinesque-sCHMalTZ, 1810), although for this latter species dispersion rate was found to be higher and movements between enclosures to start at lower population densities. unlike P. siculus, P. muralis exhibited different dispersal behavior at opposite density conditions: the lizards moved away from enclo- sures both highly crowded and unpopulated by conspecifics, i.e., avoided to stay longer in initially empty than in occupied enclosures.
Vigo, G. & Geniez, Ü. & Trape, J.-F. (2016) -
Nous rapportons l`observation de Latastia longicaudata (Lacertidae) et de Trachylepis quinquetaeniata (Scincidae) dans les montagnes de l`Ennedi central (Tchad). Nos données étendent vers le nord les limites de répartition connues pour ces deux espèces au Tchad.
Vilaj, I. & Dvorski, P. (2014) -
Vilella, J.F. (1979) -
In this first note, we have carried out a herpetological study in Vidra (Gerona) where we record 8 amphibians: Euproctus asper, Salamandra salamandra, Bufo bufo, Bufo calamita, Alytes obstetricans, Hyla meridionalis, Rana ridibunda and Rana temporaria, and 11 reptilians: Anguis fragilis, Lacerta agilis, Lacerta lepida, Podarcis muralis, Lacerta viridis, Coronella austriaca, Coronella girondica, Malpolon monspessulanus, Natrix maura, Natrix natrix and Vipera aspis. We also give the most actual material record on Euproctus asper located in Vidra and Santa Maria de Besora.
Villa, A. & Bon, M. & Delfino, M. (2018) -
The Roman well US 100, located in the Tenuta Zuccarello near Venice, has yielded a large number of different animals remains, dated back to 2000 ± 40 years BP. Amphibians and reptiles are represented by at least 11 taxa: two caudates (Lissotriton gr. L. vulgaris, Triturus gr. T. cristatus), three anurans (Bombina sp., Bufo bufo, Rana dalmatina vel R. latastei), one turtle (Emys orbicularis), at least two lizards (Anguis gr. A. fragilis, Lacerta gr. L. viridis), and three snakes (Natrix natrix, cf. Coronella sp., Hierophis viridiflavus). Based on this assemblage, an ecotonal environment with water bodies, open and humid areas, as well as dry and sunny areas, is here suggested for the surroundings of the well when the sediments deposited. Most of the identified taxa were found in other Venetian sites since the Pleistocene, suggesting a certain continuity in the amphibians and reptiles population in Veneto during the Quaternary. The only taxon that is absent from the Venetian Lagoon today is Bombina. Its presence in a 2000-years-old archaeological site proves that the disappearance of suitable environments for the genus is a recent phenomenon near the Lagoon. This may support future reintroduction projects in suitable areas, following a conservation palaeobiology perspective.
Villa, A. & Delfino, M. (2019) -
The fossil record provides evidence of a long evolutionary history of European lizards. Since fossil lizards are regularly represented by bone remains, the knowledge of the origins of extant taxa and their distribution in time and space is hindered by the fact that their comparative osteology is not yet completely and adequately known. In spite of a rising interest in this topic since the end of the 20th century, a gap in our knowledge is still evident. We here report the first broad-scale comparative osteological analysis of the skulls of extant European lizards, highlighting significant differences that can be used in identification. This comparative study, including as many European species as possible, leads to the creation of a detailed diagnostic key for each single bone. Also, our data significantly improve the recognizability of extant European non-snake squamates, with 54% of the current diversity to be recognized based on the new results contra the previously estimated 31%. This recognizability is expected to further increase in the future, with new studies focusing on species that are either missing or poorly represented here, or applying promising advanced methodologies.
Villa, A. & Tschopp, E. & Georgalis, G.L. & Delfino, M. (2017) -
The capability of palaeontologists to identify fossil remains of a particular group of vertebrates strongly depends on the knowledge they have of its comparative osteology and on the actual presence of diagnostic differences among the considered taxa. This could have a relevant influence on the study of palaeodiversity, since a low recognisability causes a loss of data when trying to reconstruct the history of taxa that lived on Earth in the past. Currently, more than 6000 extant species of lizards and worm lizards are known, and new ones continue to be discovered, mainly based on molecular data. But are we able to recognise this high diversity using osteology? As far as European taxa are concerned, the osteological recognisability of non-snake squamates is very low: only 31% of the extant European taxa can be identified based on their skeletal morphology. This is balanced partially by the fact that most recognisable taxa have been actually recognised in the fossil record, suggesting that the lost data are mainly due to the scarce knowledge of the comparative osteology of these reptiles and less influenced by other biases, such as taphonomic or collection biases. In this context, specimen-level phylogenetic analysis has proved to be a useful tool to identify diagnostic combinations of osteological features, at least for lacertid species, as evidenced by a case study focused on the genus Lacerta.
Villiers, A.L. de & Baard, E. & Branch, W.R. (1983) -
Villinger, S. (2007) -
Vincent Castello, P. et al. (2023) -
Body shape, which refers to the relative proportions of the head, tail, and limbs, plays an essential role in the way organisms interact and survive in their environment. Additionally, the performance of organisms in their habitats can produce restrictions that lead to different body shape outcomes, as has been well documented in the Anolis lizard radiation. In this event, several ecomorphs with different body shapes have evolved due to selection on locomotion in different habitats. In this study, we use lizards from the family Lacertidae as a model system. First, we divided our species set into two main groups based on their habitat use. The first group is referred to as `terrestrial` for species that spend most of their time on the ground and move horizontally. The second group is called `climbers` for species that exploit the vertical axis, including both vegetation and rocky structures. We test whether locomotor mode results in body shape adaptations at the macroscale across 188 lacertid species. We compare rates and patterns of evolution for seven linear biometric variables. As expected, our results showed discrepant evolutionary patterns for some morphological traits depending on locomotor mode. In the shape of the head (head height and width) a clear pattern of directional evolution (multipeak Ornstein-Uhlenbeck evolutionary model) is observed depending on the way species use the habitat, however, we find different evolutionary models for limbs length (Brownian Motion and singlerate Ornstein – Uhlenbeck). Consistent with historical expectations at the microscale, head height and width are influenced by habitat use; hence climbers exhibit flatter, narrower heads than ground dwelling species. However, even it has been demonstrated the benefit of longer hindlimbs for terrestrial species, we failed in finding similar patterns for limbs and trunk proportions. Additional research will be conducted to determine the relationship between the evolutionary differences discovered among climbers and ground dwelling species and the species` performance capabilities.
Vinciguerra, D. (1931) -
Virgilio, F. & Sciarrillo, R. & De Flaco, M. & Comitato, R. & Laforgia, V. & Varano, L. & Cardone, A. (2004) -
The effects of thyroid hormones on metabolism and development are mediated by thyroid hormone receptors (TRs). To gain a better understanding of the potential role of thyroid hormone receptors in the liver of the lizard Podarcis sicula, we have evaluated the expression of TRs during the more critical periods of the annual variations of thyroid activity. The results obtained have indicated that in the liver of the lizard P. sicula there are three transcripts: mRNA of 5.0 kb for TRα1, mRNA of 2.6 kb for TRα2, and 6.0 kb band, which represent unprocessed heteronuclear RNA, encoding unspliced primary transcripts of RNA prior to their processing into the mature TRα1 and TRα2. By means of slot-blot, we are able to determine that there is a change in the expression of TRs that occurs in the liver during the annual cycle of thyroid activity. A major expression registers in May, when the lizard thyroid gland shows the maximal activity. The combination of molecular biology with immunohistochemistry revealed that hepatic cells were also TRα IR positive. Particularly intense immunostaining was present in the cell nuclei of animals sacrified in May. These observations suggest that in lizard P. sicula the thyroid hormone (T3) might regulate hepatic activity, modulating TR mRNA levels.
Virgilio, F. & Sciarrillo, R. & Laforgia, V. & Cavagnuolo, A. & Falco, M. de & Varano, L. (2001) -
Visser, S. (2001) -
Vitacek, Z. (1993) -
Die Verbreitung der Herpetofauna im Kreis Leská Lipa Nordböhmen) ab dem Jahre 1983 wird dargestellt. Folgende Amphibien- und Reptilienarten wurden festgestellt: Salamandra salamandra, Triturus vulgaris, Triturus cristatus, Triturus alpestris, Bombina bombina, Pelobates fuscus, Hyla arborea, Bufo bufo, Bufo calamita, Rana temporaria, Rana dalmatina, Rana arvalis, Rana ridibunda, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta vivipara, Lacerta agilis, Coronella austriaca, Natrix natrix, Natrix tessellata, Vipera berus. Unter den Reptilienarten kommen Lacerta vivipara und Vipera berus nur auf den geeigneten Stellen vor, Natrix tessellata und Coronella austriaca nur vereinzelt; die anderen Reptilienarten sind relativ häufig in der Region des Kreises Ceská Lipa. Für jede Art werden die konkreten Fundorte angeführt.
Vitt L.J. & Cooper Jr., W.E. & Perera, A. & Pérez-Mellado, V. (2002) -
Escape behavior of the Mediterranean lizard Lacerta perspicillata was studied experimentally in a limestone quarry at Lithica on the island of Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain. These lizards are exposed to avian predators while active on vertical rock faces. Simulated kestrel attacks using a cardboard model elicited escape responses from nearly all lizards approached. Methods of escape included entering a crevice, retreating over or around an edge, running behind a shrub growing against the rock surface, running behind a shrub and dropping to the ground (`bush to ground`), and retreating under or behind a rock isolated from a rock face. Most lizards fled directly to the closest available refuge or to alternative refuges only slightly farther away. Nevertheless, lizards that initially perched near crevices more frequently fled to other types of refuge than lizards that were initially near other refuges. The latter usually fled to the closest refuge. Lizards predominantly fled parallel to the ground or directly toward it (down) into a refuge regardless of the direction of attack (above, below, straight on). Direction of attack affected the type of refuge used. Lizards approached from above were more likely to flee to bush-ground or crevices than those approached from below or the same height. Straight-line retreat directly to a refuge appears to be the most viable escape strategy for these lizards when faced with attacks by avian predators, but the direction of attack may influence decisions based on risk.
Vitt, L.J. (2001) -
Vitt, L.J. & Pianka, E.R. (2004) -
Lacertid, teiid, and gymnophthalmid lizards share much of their evolutionary history. We explore ecological traits of these lizards in an attempt to identify similarities that may have a historical origin as well as differences that may reflect the effects of differing ecological settings on the portion of their histories that is independent. Within Teioidea, major divergence in body size occurred producing Gymnophthalmidae (small size) and Teiidae (larger size). Small body size in gymnophthalmids affected their ecology differently than larger body size did in teiids, particularly in respect to thermal ecology. Teiids maintain higher body temperatures and are more successful in open, hot habitats than are gymnophthhalmids. Body size varies from small to relatively large in lacertids. A striking difference between lacertids and their sister clade, Teioidea, is the inclusion of many ants in the diets of some species. Differences in data collection make direct comparisons between lacertids, gymnophthalmids, and teiids difficult. We demonstrate, with data on three lizard species, how interpretations based on numerical versus volumetric dietary data varies depending on how specialized a particular lizard species is. We recommend standardization of data collection such that future comparisons can be more meaningful.
Vivek, S. & Rakesh, K.K. & Sharma, K.K. (2015) -
Vives-Balmaña, M.V. (1982) -
Vives-Balmaña, M.V. (1987) -
Vlachantonis, E. & Schauerte, N. (2010) -
Vlad, S.E. & Klomp, D.A. & Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Boratynski, Z. & Carretero, M.A. (2021) -
Vlǎdescǔ, C. & Baltac, M. & Trandaburu, T. (1970) -
Vlcek, P. & Zavadil, V. (2019) -
A reproducing population of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) is reported from the Czech Silesia (Czech Republic) for the first time. The lizards live in the ruins of the castle Šelenburk which is located on the Cvilín Hill near the town Krnov. This finding extends the known range of P. muralis from the nearest known Moravian locality cca 60 km to the North-West.
Vleeschauer, T. de (1951) -
Vleeschauwer, T. de (1955) -
Vlha, J. (2021) -
Genetic information is one of the many things parents give to their offsprings to help guide them through life. Among the aforementioned genetic information are microsatellites, short tandem repetitions or STRs for short, which can be used to identify a specific individual thanks to their high mutation rate. High mutation rate means that every individual has their own, unique set of STRs. Resulting from this uniqueness is the use of STRs as genetic markers. They can be used to research the social structure of a population, mating behaviour or, alternatively, reproductive fitness. An analysis was conducted using five loci of the sand lizard, Lacerta agilis, to determine relatedness coefficients between individuals. Samples from individuals were collected on three separate locations and among the sampled individuals four different colour forms were recognized. Using the individuals` relatedness coefficients, potential parent-offspring relations were determined. On the same note, the most reproductively successful individuals were found, and their distribution based on colour forms was compared to the colour form distribution of the whole sampled population.
Vliet, B. van & Mooijenkind, H. & Esterik, N. van (1983) -
In June 1981 the authors visited Rumania. During that period they observed several species of amphibians and reptiles in Carpathian Mountains, Danube Delta and Dobrogea. Notes are given on distribution and habitat of the species, mentioned in the list above. In addition, remarks are made about problems concerning the determination of some species.
Vlis, C.C. van der (1917) -
Vogel, P. (1976) -
Vogel, W. (1972) -
Vogel, Z. (1980) -
Voggenreiter, V. (1985) -
Vogrin, M. (2005) -
Morphometric characters (snout-vent length, tail length, head length, head width, and number of ventrals and gulars) were analysed in 58 male and 44 female Italian Wall Lizards, Podarcis sicula campestris, from the Adriatic coast of Slovenia. The Italian Wall Lizard is significantly dimorphic in most characters analysed. Males were significantly larger than females. No differences between sexes were found in the number of gulars, whereas the number of transversal rows of ventrals was significantly higher in females (27-30) than in males (24-27).
Vogrin, M. & Böhme, W. & Crochet, P.-A. & Nettmann, H.K. & Sindaco, R. & Romano, A. (2009) -
Vogrin, M. & Vogrin, N. (1999) -
In this note we describe a predation of the wall lizard Podarcis muralis by the great grey shrike Lanius excubiror during the winter (February 8th) in central Slovenia. We found three subadults and one adult wall lizard stored on spikes of a Robinia pseudoacacia. One subadult was also decapitated, whereas the others were fixed on thc spikes by their necks. Publisheel information about great grey shrikes preying on lizards during the winter is scarce and, surprisingly, limited to nonhem Europe.
Vogrin, N. (1997) -
Thirteen reptilian and two amphibian species were observed at Lake Vrana and the adjacent Adriatic coastal area (Dalmacia, Croatia). Lacerta oxycephala was found in Drage, about 30 km north of the known range of the spe- cies.
Vogrin, N. (1998) -
In der Arbeit werden demographische Untersuchungen an einer Popu- lation der Mauereidechse, Podarcis muralis muralis (LAURENTI, 1768), von den Ruinen von Žovnek (unteres Savinja-Tal, Mittelslowenien) be- schrieben. P. muralis kommt dort syntop mit fünf weiteren Reptilienarten vor. Die Populationsgröße von P. muralis wurde durch Markierung und Wiederfang nach Chapmans Modifikation der Petersen Schätzung sowie nach dem kumulativen Verfahren und der Jolly-Seber Methode ermittelt. Die Abschätzung ergab für die Populationsgröße Werte zwischen 75 (Jolly-Seber) and 120 (Petersen) Individuen, für die Mortalitätsrate 17 %, für die Populationsdichte bis zu 6 Individuen auf 100 m2 und für das Geschlechterverhältnis ungefähr 1:1. Die angewandte Markierungstech- nik (Amputation von Endphalangen) hatte keinen signifikanten Einfluß auf die Wiederfangrate.
Vogrin, N. (1999) -
The aim of this preliminary study is to evaluate some differences between two populations of Podarcis muralis muralis and Podarcis muralis maculiventris living in Slovenia using some biometric and meristic characters. Forty-eight specimens from @ovnek (Central Slovenia, 46°16` N, 15°10` E) and 24 specimens from Lucija (Slovenian Istria, 45°30` N, 13°36` E) were included in a statistical analysis. The values of body dimensions of both sexes differ significantly between the two locali- ties. Specimens from Lucija are bigger with a longer pileus. According to the results of this prelimi- nary study on some characters of the external morphology, the classification of Slovenian popula- tions of wall lizard into two subspecies seems justified.
Vohra, A. & Duda, P.L. (1980) -
Voigt, F.S. (1832) -
Voipio, P. (1961) -
Voipio, P. (1968) -
Voipio, P. (1969) -
The variation of the postfrontal pileus in Lacerta vivipara Jacq. is described on the basis of a material of 216 adults or juveniles and 151 embryos from Finland. The frequencies of the different anomalies are presented, and the relations between environmental conditions and the occurrence of the different head-shield patterns are discussed.
Voipio, P. (1991) -
The anterior and posterior pileus in 367 specimens of the common lizard Lacerta vivipara, collected mainly in southern Finland, show different types of variation: geographical in the anterior and largely stochastic in the posterior. This variation was studied in terms of phenodeviants indicatory of disturbances caused by environmental or genetic stresses during ontogeny, with the following results: 1) the differences in the anterior pileus pattern are probably hereditary, 2) the viabilities of the pileus types vary in different environmental conditions, 3) the postfrontal anomalies are much more common among individuals with a particular pattern called `rectangular` than among the other types, the former thus possibly being connected with some specific system of disturbance particularly susceptible to anomalies, and 4) it seems evident that there are genetically determined interrelations between the anterior and posterior part of the pileus through the mediatory role of the rectangular pattern. The problem is treated in terms of phenodeviants indicating disturbances caused by environmental or genetic stresses during ontogeny.
Voituron, Y. & Grenot, C. (1999) -
Voituron, Y. & Herold, J.-P. & Grenot, C. (2000) -
The European common lizard Lacerta vivipara, a reptile of cold‐temperate climates, provides us an interesting model of low‐temperature adaptation. Indeed its unique cold‐hardiness strategy, which employs both freeze tolerance and freeze avoidance, may be seen as the primary reason for its large distribution, which extends from Spain to beyond the Arctic circle. To study the metabolism supporting this capacity, we used three techniques: two techniques of calorimetry (oxygen consumption and thermogenesis) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. These techniques were used to examine the metabolic balance and the different molecular pathways used between three different periods through the year (September, January, and May). The results show a significant 20% augmentation of winter anaerobic metabolism compared to other periods of the year. This is mainly because of an activation of the lactic fermentation pathway leading to an increase of lactate concentration (>34% in winter). Furthermore, glucose, which increases some 245% in winter, is used as antifreeze and metabolic substrate. Furthermore, this study provides evidence that the physiological adaptations of the common lizard differ from those of other ectotherms such as Rana sylvatica. Concentrations of alanine and glycerol, commonly used as antifreeze by many overwintering ectotherms, do not increase during winter.
Voituron, Y. & Heulin, B. & Surget-Groba, Y. (2004) -
The lizard Lacerta vivipara has allopatric oviparous and viviparous populations. The cold hardiness strategy of L. vivipara has previously been studied in viviparous populations, but never in oviparous ones. The present study reveals that both the oviparous and viviparous individuals of this species are able to survive in a supercooled state at _31C for at least one week when kept on dry substrates. The mean crystallisation temperatures of the body, around _41C on dry substrata and _21C on wet substrata, do not differ between oviparous and viviparous individuals. All the individuals are able to tolerate up to 48–50% of their body fluid converted into ice, but only viviparous individuals were able to stabilize their body ice content at 48%, and hence were able to survive even when frozen at _31C for times of up 24 hours. Ice contents higher than 51% have been constantly found lethal for oviparous individuals. This suggests that, in L. vivipara, the evolution towards a higher degree of freezing tolerance could parallel the evolution of the viviparous reproductive mode, a feature believed to be strongly selected under cold climatic conditions. This is the first report, among reptiles, of an intraspecific variation regarding the freeze tolerance capacities.
Voituron, Y. & Josserand, R. & Galliard, J.F. le & Haussy, C. & Roussel, D. & Romestaing, C. & Meylan, S. (2017) -
Stress hormones, such as corticosterone, play a crucial role in orchestrating physiological reaction patterns shaping adapted responses to stressful environments. Concepts aiming at predicting individual and population responses to environmental stress typically consider that stress hormones and their effects on metabolic rate provide appropriate proxies for the energy budget. However, uncoupling between the biochemical processes of respiration, ATP production, and free-radical production in mitochondria may play a fundamental role in the stress response and associated life histories. In this study, we aim at dissecting sub-cellular mechanisms that link these three processes by investigating both whole-organism metabolism, liver mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation processes (O2 consumption and ATP production) and ROS emission in Zootoca vivipara individuals exposed 21 days to corticosterone relative to a placebo. Corticosterone enhancement had no effect on mitochondrial activity and efficiency. In parallel, the corticosterone treatment increased liver mass and mitochondrial protein content suggesting a higher liver ATP production. We also found a negative correlation between mitochondrial ROS emission and plasma corticosterone level. These results provide a proximal explanation for enhanced survival after chronic exposure to corticosterone in this species. Importantly, none of these modifications affected resting whole-body metabolic rate. Oxygen consumption, ATP, and ROS emission were thus independently affected in responses to corticosterone increase suggesting that concepts and models aiming at linking environmental stress and individual responses may misestimate energy allocation possibilities.
Voituron, Y. & Servais, S. & Romestaing, C. & Douki, T. & Barré, H. (2006) -
The Europeancommonlizard (Lacertavivipara) tolerates long periods at sub-zero temperatures, either in the supercooled or the frozen state. Both physiological conditions limit oxygen availability to tissues, compelling lizards to cope with potential oxidative stress during the transition from ischemic/anoxic conditions to reperfusion with aerated blood during recovery. To determine whether antioxidantdefenses are implicated in the survival of lizards when facing sub-zero temperatures, we monitored the activities of antioxidant enzymes and oxidative stress either during supercooling or during freezing exposures (20 h at −2.5 °C) and 24 h after thawing in two organs of lizards—muscle and liver. Supercooling induced a significant increase in the total SOD and GPx activity in muscle (by 67 and 157%, respectively), but freezing had almost no effect on enzyme activity, either in muscle or in liver. By contrast, thawed lizards exhibited higher GPx activity in both organs (a 133% increase in muscle and 59% increase in liver) and a significant decrease in liver catalase activity (a 47% difference between control and thawed lizards). These data show that supercooling (but not freezing) triggers activation of the antioxidant system and this may be in anticipation of the overgeneration of oxyradicals when the temperature increases (while thawing or at the end of supercooling). Oxidative stress was assessed from the content of 8-oxodGuo and the different DNA adducts resulting from lipid peroxidation, but it was unaltered whatever the physiological state of the lizards, thus demonstrating the efficiency of the antioxidant system that has been developed by this species. Overall, antioxidantdefenses appear to be part of the adaptive machinery for reptilian tolerance to sub-zero temperatures.
Voituron, Y. & Storey, J.M. & Grenot, C. & Storey, K.B. (2002) -
To investigate the freeze tolerance of the Eu- ropean common lizard, Lacerta vivipara, we froze 17 individuals to body temperatures as low as ±4 °C under controlled laboratory conditions. The data show that this species tolerates the freezing of 50% of total body water and can survive freezing exposures of at least 24-h duration. Currently, this represents the best known de- velopment of freeze tolerance among squamate reptiles. Freezing stimulated a signi®cant increase in blood glu- cose levels
Voituron, Y. & Verdier, B. & Grenot, C. (2002) -
We investigated the respiratory metabolism of the overwintering lizard Lacerta vivipara while in either supercooled or frozen states. With a variable pressure and volume microrespirometer and a chromatograph, we show that the oxygen consumption of the supercooled animals showed a nonlinear relationship with temperature and an aerobic metabolism demand between 0.5 and 1.5°C. A significant increase in the respiratory quotient (RQ) values indicated an increasing contribution by the anaerobic pathways with decreasing temperature. In the frozen state, two phases are easily detectable and are probably linked to the ice formation within the body. During the first 5-6 h, the animals showed an oxygen consumption of 3.52 ± 0.28 µl · g1 · h1 and a RQ value of 0.52 ± 0.09. In contrast, after ice equilibrium, oxygen consumption decreased sharply (0.55 ± 0.09 µl · g1 · h1) and the RQ values increased (2.49 ± 0.65). The present study confirms the fact that supercooled invertebrates and vertebrates respond differently to subzero temperatures, in terms of aerobic metabolism, and it shows that aerobic metabolism persists under freezing conditions.
Volaki, Z. & Skopeliti, M. & Tsitsilonis, O. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E.D. (2004) -
Völkl, W. (2006) -
Völkl, W. (2011) -
Völkl, W. & Gees, K. & Beran, H. (2013) -
104 old records of the sand lizard in Bayreuth-county (59 records) and Bayreuth-city (45 records) were controlled during the vegetation period 2011 for recent popula tions. 96 records originated from surveys before 1995, eight records in sand pits re sulted from 2003. With a similar method (two controls of each old record), only 41% of the old records could be confirmed. At 29% of the controlled sites, an occurrence of the sand lizard might be possible, but at 30% of the sites, the sand lizard populations were definitely extinct. The decline was much more distinct in Bayreuth-city (29% confirmed populations) than in Bayreuth-county (51% confirmed populations). The dramatic decline in the urban area is a result of building activities on formerly fallow land and of a loss of habitats along former railways. In the rural areas, an intensive agriculture destroyed many habitats. Individual-rich populations were found only in sand pits, in calcareous grassland and on railroad embankments.
Völkl, W. & Hansbauer, G. (2010) -
Die Waldeidechse ist in Ostbayern in den Mittelgebirgen derzeit noch weit verbreitet. Allerdings nahmen die Vorkommen vor allem im Bereich der Kulturlandschaft deutlich ab. Untersuchungen aus dem Fichtelgebirge zeigen, dass die Waldeidechse in den letzten 20 Jahren aus mehr als der Hälfte ihrer Lebensräume im Waldrand- und Heckenbereich verschwunden ist. Der Grund hierfür ist der drastische Verlust an extensiv genutzten breiten Waldrändern und an strukturreichen Randflächen entlang der verbliebenen Hecken. Eine vergleichende Untersuchung an nährstoffreichen und nährstoffarmen Randstrukturen zeigte, dass in extensiv genutzten Bereichen nicht nur die Waldeidechsendichte höher war, sondern auch der Anteil an Jungtieren. In den Waldlebensräumen gab es einen lokalen Arealverlust durch die Aufforstung von Waldwiesen und durch Änderung in der Waldbewirtschaftung. Allerdings werden diese Habitatverluste durch das Entstehen großflächiger Lichtungen nach Naturereignissen (Sturmwurf, Schneebruch, Borkenkäferkalamitäten) weitgehend kompensiert.
Volobouev, V. & Pasteur, G. & Bons, J. & Guillaume, C.P. & Dutrillaux, B. (1990) -
Even if the common lizard Lacerta vivipara and endemic Lacerta andreanskyi from Moroccan Grand Atlas have the same mother species, the two species are definitely not closely related in present-day nature, whereL. vivipara stands at variance from all other lacertids in terms of cytogenetics. The use of replication banding, C-bands and R-bands has allowed for the identification of all chromosome pairs and two sex chromosomes inL. andreanskyi. Its karyotype is typical of Lacertidae. The W chromosome, characterized by late replication, is nevertheless of a type previously unknown in the family. The comparison of Z and W chromosomes by different methods of chromosome banding indicates little homology between them, if any. The replication study has shown that there is no dosage compensation for the Z chromosome in (homogametic) males. That genetic inactivation precedes chromosomal mutations in non-vivipara lacertid evolution of the odd sex chromosome is suggested.
Volynchik, S. (2014) -
A close relationship between habitat and external morphology is widespread among many animals, including reptiles. Here, I studied the relationship between abiotic environmental conditions and body size of four lacertid species (Phoenicolacerta laevis, Ophisops elegans, Acanthodactylus boskianus, and Mesalina guttulata) occurring in Israel. I examined the effect of average annual temperature and average annual precipitation on body and limb dimensions, using linear statistical models. Temperatureand precipitation-related geographic clines in body size showed the same trend among all species. Females displayed stronger phenotypic response to temperature gradient than conspecific males, suggesting a sex-specific effect of natural selection. Snoutvent length (SVL) was negatively correlated with temperature, supporting Bergmann’s rule in O. elegans and in female P. laevis and A. boskianus, butnot inM. guttulata. Precipitationwas positively related to SVL in O. elegans and M. guttulata, andinfemale P. laevis and A. boskianus. The relative extremity lengths, especially hind limb segments, generally increase towards hot and dry locations, following Allen’s rule. Among the Mediterranean region species (P. laevis, O. elegans) the morphological-environmental link with temperature was stronger than in desert dwellers (A. boskianus, M. guttulata), for which precipitation was the major determinant of spatial variation.
Vonesh, J. (2001) -
This study lists the amphibian and reptile species of Kibale National Park, Uganda, and discusses the natural history and biogeography of this unique herpetofauna. This herpetofaunal inventory was compiled based upon literature records and collections made during 17 mo fieldwork between 1995 and 1997, and includes 28 anuran, 15 lizard, and 32 snake species. Faunal comparisons with seven other tropical African forests show a high degree similarity between the Kibale herpetofauna and those of central and West Africa.
Vonesh, J.R. (1998) -
The amphibians and reptiles of Kibale National Park in western Uganda were inventoried over an 18-mo period in 1995 and 1996-97. A total of 75 species, including 28 amphibians and 47 reptiles, were collected or observed. Comparison with other equatorial African herpetofaunas confirms that the Kibale fauna is most similar to those of southwest Uganda and eastern Congo-Zaire, both hypothesized Pleistocene forest refugia. Comparison with a West Africa fauna also shows a fair degree of overlap, while almost no overlap was observed between Kibale and the forests of coastal East Africa. This confirms that the Kibale herpetofauna is an extension of the Guinea-Congolean forest faunas. Randomly placed 5 x 5 m plots were used to sample the herpetofauna of the forest leaflitter layer in unlogged forest, logged forest, and a neighboring exotic pine plantation. A total of 18 amphibian and reptile species were captured in the litter, a number similar to that observed in mid-elevation tropical forests in Central America and Southeast Asia. Density at Kibale was much lower than most previous studies. Analysis of the feeding ecology of the most abundant litter species showed that most diurnal litter frogs are active foragers of hard-bodied prey such as ants; sit-and-wait predators of larger soft-bodied prey are curiously absent. Plots sampled under fruiting Ficus natalensis trees showed significantly higher prey densities, but litter amphibians and reptiles did not seem to respond to this increase. Of the physical and biotic factors measured in each plot, seasonal changes in soil moisture were most closely correlated with the patterns of herpetofauna abundance observed in the forest. This is consistent with the fact that Kibale receives less rain than any site where the ecology of the litter herpetofauna has been studied, and that most of the species present in Kibale are believed to have evolved in the wetter forests of eastern Congo-Zaire.
Vonesh, J.R. (2001) -
I compared species richness and habitat correlates of leaf-litter herpetofaunal abundance in undisturbed and selectively logged forests, and an abandoned pine plantation in Kibale National Park, Uganda. I sampled 50 randomly located 25 m2 litter plots in each area during the wet and dry seasons in 1997. Ten anuran, five lizard, and three snake species were captured in plots over the study. Assemblage composition was most similar at logged and unlogged sites. The logged forest herpetofauna had higher species richness and abundance than the unlogged forest, but diversity was greater in the unlogged forest due to greater evenness. In contrast, the pine plantation site had the highest richness, abundance, and evenness of the three study sites, but species composition was distinct from the other areas. Herpe- tofaunal densities were significantly lower in all three areas during the dry season than in the wet season. During the dry season, soil moisture, litter mass, topography, shrub cover, and number of fallen logs were significant positive predictors of herpetofaunal presence in litter plots, but only soil moisture was significant in the wet season. The interaction of moisture and topography appears to be important in determining seasonal patterns of litter herpetofaunal distribution. Comparison of litter herpetofaunal studies across the tropics have shown that mid-elevation faunas generally support fewer species than lowland faunas. Compared with other tropical mid-elevation litter faunas, Kibale supports an intermediate number of species, but at lower densities than observed at any other mid-elevation site reported in the literature.
Vongrej, V. & Smolinsky, R. & Bulánková, E. & Jandzik, D. (2008) -
Voort, J. van der (2004) -
The author joined a herpetological journey ro Extremadura in Spain. The group consisred of eigllteen per- sons and was travelling vith two vans. The area is more or less as large as the Nerherlands, but Jess popula- ted. The largestpart ofthis region is occupied by `dehesa`, an open mediterrenean wood1311dscenery with catrle-breeding. Moreover there is steppe coumry, mounrains in the north (Sierra de Gredos) and finally hilly cotumy (Sierra de Guadalupe a11d Monfragüe). Day by day the areas that were visited a11d rhe reptiles and 3lnphibians that were seen are described. In total twelve species of a111phibians and twenty species of reptiles are found.
The autor describes au ecological journey to the Danube Delta in Romania. Three areas in this region were visited, the DanubeDelta, Dobrogea (Dealul Mare, Muntii Macin, Babadag forest) and the southern lagunes (Lake Istria/Lake Nuntasi, Grindul Chituc). Part of the region was explored by bus and part by boat. The group was accompanied by a herpetoiogist of the Instirure for the Study and Proteetion of the Danube Delta and by tl1e Conservation Officer of the Royal Society for the proteetion of Birds. In all 24 species ofreptiles and amphibians were spotted in this rather short period.
Voronov, A.S. & Voronova, G.A. & Kupriyanova, N.S. & Ryskov, A.P. (2005) -
Vozenilek, P. (1994) -
Der Auto geht von der Arbeit von Hromádka et al. (Fauna Bohem. Septentr. 7: 65-121) aus und ergänzt sie um neuere Feststellungen, sowie auch um die von Hromádka et al. Nicht bearbeiteten Literaturangaben. Bei einzelnen Taxonomen ist die Verbreitung auf MTB-Karten aufgenommen und es werden auch die Funorte genannt. Die heutige Verbreitung jeder Art wurde mit der vor Jahre 1960 (ursprüngliches Areal) verglichen. Es handelt sich um folgende Amphibien- und Reptilienarten: Salamandra salamandra (43-46,8% - 67.5%, dass bedeutet: in 43 Quadraten notiert = 46,8 der Bezirksfläche, das heutige Areal stell 67,5% vom ursprünglichen dar), Triturusd alpestris (45-48,4& - 66,7%), T. cristatus (24-26,9% - 68,0%), T. vulgaris (44-47,3% - 81,8%), Bombina bombina (22-23,7% - 67,9%), B. variegata, pelobates fuscus (25-26,9% - 47,9%), Bufo bufo (59-63,4% - 94,9 %), B. calamita (15-16,1% - 53,4%), B. viridis (22-23,7% - 63,4%), Hyla arborea (21-22,6% - 33,3%), Rana kl. esculenta (19-20,4% - 35,8%), Rana ridibunda (33-34,5% - 56,2%), R. arvalis (19-20,4% - 57,8%), R. dalmatina (18-19,3% - 72,5%), R. temporaria (59-63,4% - 86,4%), Lacerta agilis (53-57,0% - 79,2%), L. viridis (5-5,4% - 60%), L. vivipara (41-44,1% - 87,7%), Anguis fragilis (58-62,4% - 79,3%), Natrix natrix (50-53,8% - 76,0%), N. tessellata (8-8,6% - 50,0%), Coronealla austriaca (31-33,3% - 51,6%), Elaphe longissima (2-2,1% - 100%), Vipera berus (52-57,0% - 83,0%).
Vozniychuk, O.P. & Kuranova, V.N. (2008) -
The distribution, biotopical and vertical allocation, and abundance of the amphibians and reptiles of Katun nature reserve and its adjacent territories (the Central Altai) are discussed. Two species of amphibians (Bufo bufo and Rana arvalis) and three ones of reptiles (Lacerta agilis, Zootoca vivipara, and Vipera berus) are shown to inhabit Katun nature reserve and its adjacent territories, the distribution of these species being ex- tremely irregular. The highest specific diversity and abundance of amphibians are typi- cal for the forest-steppe zone. Single findings of R. arvalis were recorded in the sub- Alpine zone while no amphibians are present in the Alpine zone. Reptiles occur in the reserve everywhere and occupy all the four mountain belts, but prefer sub-Alpine zone sparse growths of trees with meadow motley grass. The abundance of reptiles decreases in the Alpine and forest-steppe zones because of heat deficiency and humidity decrease, respectively.
Вознийчук О.П., Куранова В.Н. (2008) -
Рассмотрены распространение, биотопическое и вертикальное распределение, обилие земноводных и пресмыкающихся заповедника «Катунский» и сопредельной территории (Центральный Алтай). Показано, что в Катунском заповеднике и прилежащей к нему территории обитает 2 вида земноводных (серая жаба и остромордая лягушка) и 3 вида пресмыкающихся (прыткая и живородящая ящерицы, обыкновенная гадюка), которые распределены крайне неравномерно. Наибольшее видовое разнообразие и обилие земноводных характерно для лесостепного пояса. Единичные находки остромордой лягушки зарегистрированы в подгольцовом поясе, а в гольцовом - земноводные отсутствуют. Пресмыкающиеся встречаются в заповеднике повсеместно и заселяют все четыре вертикальных пояса, однако предпочитают подгольцовые редколесья с луговым разнотравьем. Обилие пресмыкающихся сокращается в гольцах из-за дефицита тепла, а в лесостепи - с уменьшением влажности.
Vozzo, L. de & Montesanto, G. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Manganelli, G. (2021) -
Feeding spectrum of Lacertids has been widely studied in different geographical areas, continental, insular and microinsular. Data are particularly informative and show a trophic spectrum mainly characterized by arthropods (mainly insercts), but also by other taxa. Even if lesser represented, terrestrial Isopods (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) have been recorded. Armadillo officinalis has a stridulatory apparatus and it is able to produce micro-vibrations, whose meaning and/or the biological functions are still not understood (decrease of predation?). Other species of the group do not produce vibrations. In Podarcis muralis and Podarcis siculus diet Isopods remains have been recorded, despite the taxonomic identity has not yet been determined. We considered two lizards samples, to check average size of the two species. As expected Podarcis muralis is smaller in size than Podarcis siculus (tSVL = -4.096; 51 df; P < 0.0001; tbmass = -4.194; 44 df; P < 0.0001). We offered, randomly, three prey types, i) Tenebrio molitor larvae, or ii) Armadillidium granulatum adults or iii) Armadillo officinalis adults. Each individual lizard has been tested once only. Tenebrio has been preyed 14/14 times; A. granulatum 10/14, A. officinalis 2/14 (χ2 = 22.615; 2 df; P < 0.0001). General Linear Model analyses show no predation effect due to the lizard species (P = 0.084), no size effect (svl-body mass) (P = 0.329) nor in the Podarcis species×Podarcis size interaction. On the contrary, there is a strong effect of the prey type×lizard size interaction (P < 0.0001), where the vibrating Isopod is on average discarded. However, we should verify in the future if the exclusion of the vibrating species is actually a simple effect of the larger size of A. officinalis with respect to A. granulatum, or a direct consequence of the vibrating feature of the Crustacean.
Vozzo, L. di & Montesanto, G. & Zuffi, M.A.L. (2022) -
The feeding spectrum of Lacertids has been widely studied in different geographical areas, continental, insular and microinsular. Data are particularly informative and show a trophic spectrum mainly characterized by arthropods, mainly insects, but also by other taxa. Even if lesser represented, terrestrial Isopods, (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) have been recorded. Armadillo officinalis has a stridulatory apparatus and it is able to produce micro-vibrations, whose meaning and/or the biological functions are still not understood (decrease of predation?). Other species of terrestrial isopods do not produce vibrations. In Podarcis species diet Isopods remains have been recorded, although the taxonomic identity has not yet been determined. We considered two lizards species, Podarcis muralis and P. siculus, as potential predators. We randomly offered three prey types, i) Tenebrio molitor larvae, or ii) Armadillidium granulatum adults or iii) Armadillo officinalis adults. Soft and smaller preys were mainly predated while hard and large preys were mainly discarded. From our results, it is not still possible to infer that vibration per se has evolved to limit or avoid predation.
Vrabec, V. (2019) -
Observation of herpetofauna in Madeira 2015–2016 -- Article report the results of herpetological survey of Portugal islands: Madeira, Porto Santo, Ilhas Desertas and Ilhas Selvagens. The original fauna is represented mainly by sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea, Caretta caretta, Eretmochelys imbricata, Chelonia mydas, Lepidochelys kempii, Lepidochelys olivacea), one endemic lizard species Teira dugesii and the gecko Tarentola bischoffi from Ilhas Selvagens. At least four other species have been introduced into the wild and survive freely (Hemidactylus mabouia, Pelophylax perezi, Ramphotyphlops braminus, Tarentola mauritanica), several other species have been introduced unsuccessfully or are reported only from isolated seizures (Agama agama, Hyla meridonalis, Chamaeleo chamaeleon, Pantherophis guttatus, Zamenis scalaris) and the remaining species data are considered to be erroneous (Gallotia galloti,Chalcides viridanus). Several species, including those at higher risk of invasive distribution, are kept in captivity on the islands (Graptemys pseudogeographica, Trachemys scripta, Centrochelys sulcata.
Vrankovic, M. (1998) -
Vrhovac, B. & Zimic, A. & Sunde, E. (2015) -
Vroonen, J. & Vervust, B. & Van Damme, R. (2013) -
In many animals, aspects of colouration are hypothesized to convey information on the body condition or quality of individuals. This idea has been tested primarily for the carotenoid-based component of body colouration. The significance of other pigments in this context has received far less attention. In the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara, the degree of black patterning on the ventrum and throats is sexually dimorphic and varies considerably among individuals. In this study, we examine whether this melanin-based component of body colouration may reflect individual differences in quality (SVL, condition, immune response).We find that males (but not females) with a higher degree of ventral patterning mount a stronger phytohemagglutinin-induced immune response. The amount of black patterning does not correlate with body size, body condition, aspects of dorsal colouration or parasite load. We conclude that in male Zootoca vivipara, melanin-based ventral colouration may signal an aspect of immune capacity to sexual rivals or potential partners.
Vukasin Corovic, J. & Crnobrnja-Isailovic, J. (2013) -
This study was conducted to determine the variation range of daily and seasonal activity in a local population of a meadow lizard (Darevskia praticola) at the north-western edge of species area, compared to the variation of certain environmental parameters - soil temperature (Ts) and air temperatures (T5, T60), humidity (Hu), atmospheric pressure, cloudiness and wind speed. In the adult animals a moderately positive correlation between daily activity (LAI) and ambient temperatures was observed (LAI-Ts = 0.35; LAI-T5 = 0.30; LAI-T60 = 0.34), and a low correlation with the change of humidity (LAI-Hu = - 0.14). For the subadult individuals activity was negatively correlated with ambient temperatures (LAI-Ts = - 0.29; LAI-T5 = - 0.45; LAI-T60 = - 0.33), so that activity decreased with increasing temperature, and increasing humidity also reduced the activity (LAI-Hu = -0.54). Results suggest that meadow lizard requires rather special combination of environmental factors. Activity of lizards, recorded via linear transects, changed during the analysed period, from March to June 2012. The lowest total activity was in March (N - the average number of lizards seen per day - was 12 individuals), and the highest in April (N = 19 individuals). In this population of D. praticola the activity pattern had no distinct regularity. It occurred in the form of unimodal and bimodal, and during some days neither of the two forms was expressed, since the activity was moderate during the day. Differences in activity patterns of adult and subadult individuals were also observed. The established difference in the period of maximum activity between subadult and adult individuals is likely an example of a divergence in the temporal component of the ecological niche.
Vukov, T. & Mirc, M. & Tomasevic Kolariov, N. & Stamenkovic, S. (2019) -
Numerous studies of urban environment impact on wildlife imply urbanization can have both negative and positive effects. Phenotypic variation of pileus in the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) was analysed to determine whether urbanization levels can be associated with developmental instability induced by environmental stress. Pileus developmental pathways and instability in natural, suburban and urban populations were quantified by patterns of size and shape, fluctuating asymmetry (FA), modular organization and integration, allometric trajectories and frequency of phenodeviants. Our results show high asymmetry and modular structure of pileus with the high frequency of phenodeviants for natural, suburban and urban populations indicating elevated developmental instability in all three habitat types. However, some peculiarities were observed comparing habitats – the lowest level of FA and integration in urban populations and unexpectedly high level of FA and frequency of phenodeviants in the natural population. In addition, significant correlations between symmetric and asymmetric shape patterns, and presence of modular organization for all three habitat types suggest that genetic/environmental and developmental parcellation are somewhat aligned. Our results indicate that pileus morphology varies in a complex manner and future studies that link physiological, behavioural and morphological parameters to demographic parameters and fitness are necessary to fully understand how environmental stress affects developmental instability.
Vyas, R. (2000) -
Vyas, R. (2003) -
Waal, S.W.P. de (1978) -
Wagler, J.G. (1830) -
Wagner, N. & Feldmeier, S. & Backes, L. & Dierking, S. & Heiglauer, A.A. & Jacob, J. & Junk, L. & Klemmer, C. & Merten, F.B. & Raibuch, G. & Reinhardt, N. & Richter, N. & Römer, M. & Segschneider, A. & Seibert, M. & Sterk, M. & Thiel, N. & Zoller, J. & Schulte, U. (2018) -
Mit Hilfe einer Präsenz-Absenz-Kartierung (drei Erfassungen zwischen Mai und Juli 2017) wurden im Stadtgebiet Trier alle sowie im Landkreis Trier-Saarburg der Großteil der gemeldeten Vorkommen der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) überprüft. Es konnten im Stadtgebiet von Trier nur noch drei von elf ehemaligen Vorkommen (27,3%) bestätigt werden. Im Landkreis Trier-Saarburg wurden Zauneidechsen sicher nur noch an sechs von insgesamt 28 überprüften Standorten (21,4%) nachgewiesen. Des Weiteren wurde ein Vorkommen bestätigt, welches direkt an den Landkreis angrenzt und über Dritte wurden sechs weitere Vorkommen im Kreis bekannt. Der starke Rückgang der Art in siedlungsnahen Bereichen wie auch in den ländlichen Gebieten des Kreises Trier-Saarburg wird vor allem auf eine zunehmende Bebauung und Strukturarmut in der Normallandschaft durch eine landwirtschaftliche Nutzungsintensivierung sowie fortgeschrittene Sukzession v.a. in ehemaligen Abbaugebieten zurückgeführt. Der Schutzstatus der Art als nach europäischem und nationalem Recht streng geschützte Art in Kombination mit der Bestandsentwicklung verpflichtet zu einer sorgsameren Betrachtung sowie der Umsetzung und Schutz- und Pflegemaßnahmen in den verbliebenen Vorkommen und zu einer Meldung bislang unbekannter Vorkommen.
Wagner, N. & Mingo, V. & Schulte, U. & Lötters, S. (2015) -
Environmental contamination is supposed to be a reason for population declines in reptiles. Especially intensification and expansion of agriculture are leading to increased pesticide exposure risks for wildlife. In the European Union, Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) have been established for the conservation of taxa listed in Annex II of the Habitats Directive. In the SACs, agricultural land use is legal. Therefore, we conducted a risk evaluation of pesticide exposure for Annex II reptiles by calculating proportions of land use with regular pesticide applications within SACs. Using three evaluation factors (occurrence probability, physiology, life-history aspects), a species-specific risk index was created. Nearly half of the species at above-average risk by pesticide use are globally threatened with extinction (IUCN Red List of Threatened Species). About 30% of their SACs are agriculturally used and one priority subspecies of the Habitats Directive is at highest risk (Vipera ursinii rakosiensis). Also, all evaluated fresh-water and land-dwelling turtle species are at high risk. National variation in agricultural land use in the SACs was observed. Species at above-average risk are mainly distributed in the Mediterranean and Pannonian/Continental biogeographical regions of Europe. Conservation status according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as well as national differences among the member states argue for the inclusion of pesticide risk assessments in site-specific management plans for SACs to avoid regional loss of reptilian biodiversity.
Wagner, N. & Schulte, U. & Beninde, J. (2015) -
Die Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) und die Schlingnatter (Coronella austriaca) gehören zu den europarechtlich und damit auch national streng geschützten Arten. Diese beiden Reptilienarten sind im Raum Trier eng an das Vorhandensein alter Trockenmauern gebunden. Trockenmauern werden besonders häufig im Rahmen von Flurbereinigungsverfahren in Weinbergen beseitigt und sind in den vergangenen Jahrzehnten immer mehr aus dem Landschaftsbild der Weinberge verschwunden. Noch sind Schlingnatter und besonders Mauereidechse Charakterarten der Weinbaugebiete Triers. Damit sich dies nicht grundlegend ändert, wird empfohlen, alte Trockenmauern, welche bedeutende Habitate für beide Arten darstellen, als „geschützte Landschaftsbestandteile“, ferner als „Naturdenkmal“ oder „Biotop“, im Sinne des Bundesnaturschutzgesetzes auszuweisen und spezielle Pflegemaßnahmen (regelmäßige Freistellungen von Mauern und Umland) zu veranlassen. So könnten die lokalen Bestände von Mauereidechse und Schlingnatter in den bewirtschafteten Weinbergen als auch Weinbergsbrachen Triers langfristig gesichert werden.
Wagner, P. (2013) -
Wagner, P. & Köhler, J. & Schmitz, A. & Böhme, W. (2008) -
Aim The Kakamega Forest, western Kenya, has been biogeographically assigned to both lowland and montane forest biomes, or has even been considered to be unique. Most frequently it has been linked with the Guineo-Congolian rain forest block. The present paper aims to test six alternative hypotheses of the zoogeographical relationships between this forest remnant and other African forests using reptiles as a model group. Reptiles are relatively slow dispersers, compared with flying organisms (Aves and Odonata) on which former hypotheses have been based, and may thus result in a more conservative biogeographical analysis. Location Kakamega Forest, Kenya, Sub-Saharan Africa. Methods The reptile diversity of Kakamega Forest was evaluated by field surveys and data from literature resources. Faunal comparisons of Kakamega Forest with 16 other African forests were conducted by the use of the ‘coefficient of biogeographic resemblance’ using the reptile communities as zoogeographic indicators. Parsimony Analysis of Endemism and Neighbour Joining Analysis of Endemism were used to generate relationship trees based on an occurrence matrix with paup*. Results The analysis clearly supports the hypothesis that the Kakamega Forest is the easternmost fragment of the Guineo-Congolian rain forest belt, and thus more closely related to the forests of that Central–West African complex than to any forest further east, such as the Kenyan coastal forests. Many Kenyan reptile species occur exclusively in the Kakamega Forest and its associated forest fragments. Main conclusions The Kakamega Forest is the only remnant of the Guineo- Congolian rain forest in the general area. We assume that the low degree of resemblance identified for the Guineo-Congolian forest and the East African coastal forest reflect the long history of isolation of the two forest types from each other. Kenyan coastal forests may have been historically connected through forest ‘bridges’ of the southern highlands with the Congo forest belt, allowing reptile species to migrate between them. The probability of a second ‘bridge’ located in the region of southern Tanzanian inselbergs is discussed. Although not particularly rich in reptile species, the area should be considered of high national priority for conservation measures.
Wagner, P. & Bauer, A.M. & Leviton, A.E. & Wilms, T.M. & Böhme, W. (2016) -
The composition and distribution of the vertebrate fauna of Afghanistan remain poorly documented and in recent decades little new data have become available due to a series of wars and the resulting unstable security conditions. As Afghanistan returns to some semblance of normalcy, baseline faunistic data will be particularly important for establishing national conservation priorities as well as for placing Afghan taxa into their broader phylogenetic and zoogeographic contexts. We here provide an updated checklist of the herpetofauna of Afghanistan based in part upon biodiversity archives of specimen records from several museum and private collec- tions as well as literature references and field research. The herpetofauna of Afghanistan consists of 118 species and subspecies belonging to 58 genera and 21 families. Seven species are endemic to the country, whereas 18 taxa have to be delet- ed from previous lists of the Afghan herpetofauna. Afghanistan’s primary zoogeo- graphic relationship to the Palearctic Region is reaffirmed but with secondary influ- ence from the Oriental Region. Immediately following the checklist, two sections provide information about species probably occurring in Afghanistan and previous- ly mentioned species that are now recognized as absent.
Wagner, P. & Böhme, W. (2007) -
We present an annotated checklist of the herpetofauna of Kakamega Forest with comments on the biology and systematics of the taxa. Twenty-five amphibian, one turtle, 22 lizard and 36 snake species are recorded from within the forest and its immediate environment. We discuss the generalized zoogeography of the forest and distribution pattern of the taxa comment on the protection of the forest. Analysis of the reptile species composition shows Kakamega Forest to be similar to the Guinea-Congolian rainforest and is considered the easternmost remnant of this forest block. Kakamega forest has a high diversity value for Kenya and represents a diversity hotspot on a national scale. Two species, Lrgodac- t}`lus gutturalis and Psammophis phillipsi. are recorded in Kenya for the first time. Several other first records and the description of a new species (Agamidae: Agama finchi) were published already separately.
Wagner, P. & Greenbaum, E. & Malonza, P. & Branch, B. (2014) -
The genus Adolfus Sternfeld, 1912 currently contains three species from Equatorial Africa. Two of these occur in widespread, low- to mid-elevation habitats, but Adolfus alleni is only known from four montane peaks (Aberdares, Mt. Kenya, Cherangani Hills, Mt. Elgon) in Kenya and Uganda. An integrative approach using 58 morphological characters and genetic analyses of mitochondrial (16S and cyt b) and nuclear (c-mos and RAG1) DNA sequence data revealed differences between these populations, and indicated that A. alleni is a complex of at least two cryptic species. Herein, we describe the populations from the Aberdares and Mount Elgon as a new species, and restrict A. alleni to Mount Kenya. This action underscores the importance of conservation strategies to protect these montane peaks, which may harbour additional, unique evolutionary lineages.
Wagner, P. & Rödder, D. (2008) -
Wagner, P. & Wilms, T. & Niagate, B. & Böhme, W. & Baha el Din, S. (2013) -
Wagner, P.R. (2002) -
Im August letzten Jahres führte mich eine wissenschaftliche Exkursion zusammen mit Herrn Prof. PUTZER, Duisburg auf den Selvagens Archipel. Zweck der Reise waren Untersuchungen der Bioakkumulation gammastrahlender Radionuklide an marinen und terrestrischen Organismen und herpetologische Untersuchungen an den dort endemischen Teira dugesii selvagensis und Tarentola bischoffi. Da bisher kaum bekannt, sollten den Lesern der „elaphe“ hier die Inseln und ihre Echsen näher vorgestellt werden.
Wagner, P.R. (2004) -
Freilandbeobachtungen an Teira dugesii selvagensis während zweier Forschungsreisen auf den Ilhas Selvagens in den Jahren 2001 und 2002 werden vorgestellt und mit allgemeinen Informationen über Teira dugesii auf die Inseln ergänzt.
Wagner, S.C. & Senger, D. & Callenius, H. & Katzer, N. & Thoma, L. & Barnert, J. & Brückner, M. & Müller, J. (2018) -
Wahlbäck, K. (2019) -
Open sand habitats in Sweden has been declining for the past century and this is mirrored by the increasing fragmentation and attenuation of species bound to these habitats. Many threatened species coexist in the same habitats as sand lizards, habitats best described as warm sites with a long continuity. Often with a sand-based substrate and a mosaic landscape of heather Calluna vulgaris , herbs, and patches of grass. Generally, areas with open sand are one of the keys for species bound to these habitats considering many of the species use south-facing sand slopes as nesting sites since it holds a warmer microhabitat that is beneficial for incubation of eggs and thus is essential for the whole lifecycle. This study investigates four current sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) localities in the county of Skåne and compares them to four empty localities in Southern Halland with similar character. The data collected from the study sites were analyzed to see if there were any significant differences between the populated and empty localities and thus could give information if key structures in the habitat are missing . The result from the analysis clearly shows that both the study sites Vapnö and Långenäsudden have the key structures that are essential for the sand lizard and could be considered as suitable habitats for potential new sand lizard populations. Information about both recreational pressure and predator abundance in these study sites would be an essential step in the final evaluation of the adequacy of the habitat as a whole.
Wahungu, G.M. & Mumia, E.N. & Nzau, V.N. (2004) -
Waitzbauer, W. & Ortel, J. & Schuster, A., Zolda, P. & Sehnal, P. (1999) -
Waitzmann, M. (1991) -
Im Untersuchungsgebiet des Neckartales, des südlichen Odenwaldes und der angrenzenden Bergstraße treten insgesamt 7 Reptilienarten auf. Für die drei Schlangenarten Elaphe longissima. Coronella austriaca und Natrix natrix und für die Blindschleiche Anguis fragilis werden anhand äußerer morphologischer Merkmale (Längenmaße, Gewichte und Pholidosemerkmale) Geschlechtsunterschiede und Altersstrukturen dargestellt. Während sowohl für die Äskulapnatter als auch für die Ringelnatter signifikante Geschlechtsunterschiede in den Längen- und Gewichtsdaten ermittelt wurden, konnten für die Schlingnatter hinsichtlich der Längenmaße keine Unterschiede zwischen den männlichen und weiblichen Tieren statistische erfaßt werden. Da in die Auswertungen aber auch trächtige Weibchen einbezogen wurden, treten signifikante Unterschiede in den Gewichtsdaten auch bei der Schlingnatter auf. Für alle drei Schlangenarten kann die Anzahl der Subcaudalschildpaare als sicherstes Unterscheidungsmerkmal zwischen den Geschlechtern gelten, wobei stets die männlichen Exemplare die größere Anzahl von Subcaudalia aufweisen. Die Anzahl der Ventralia wurde ausschließlich bei der Äskulapnatter ermittelt, in bezug auf dieses Merkmal weisen die weiblichen Tiere signifikant größere Werte auf. Signifikante Unterschiede in den Längen- und Gewichtsmaßen wurden auch für die Blindschleiche statistische belegt.
Waitzmann, M. & Sandmaier, P. (1990) -
Along south exposed hillsides a continuous distribution throughout the study area (Danube Valley between Passau and Linz) up to the urban district of Passau in the west was observed in both the thermophilic Aesculapian Snake, Elaphe longissima, and the Green Lizard, Lacerta viridis. Other reptiles, including the Smooth Snake, Coronella austriaca. Grass Snake, Natrix natrix. Wall Lizard, Podarcis murali`: (not indigenous), Sand Lizard, Lacerta agilis, and Slow Worm, Anguis fragilis, also occur in the Danube Valley region. The Green Lizard is exclusively restricted to warm and dry habitats. However, the Aesculapian Snake, by nature a member of the Mediterranean fauna, also was found in the humid valleys of the tributories and on the right Danube riverside, which is climatically unfavorable. Both reptiles preferentially live on boulder dumps and cliffs which represent their natural habitats, as well as in unclaimed walls. In these places populations reach maximum densities. The total length of the snakes was used to describe the age distribution of the samples. Variability of sex specific metrical data and scalation in the snakes is described.
Walker, M. (2009) -
Walker, Z. & Deichsel, G. (2005) -
Wallace, A.R. (1878) -
Wallaschek, M. (1996) -
Walley, H.D. (1958) -
Walley, H.D. (1962) -
Walley, H.D. (1993) -
Wallgren, M. & Berglind, S.-A. (2002) -
Wallis, K. (1929) -
Walter, G. & Wolters, D. (1997) -
Im Gebiet des NSG Sager Meer und des nördlich angrenzenden Heumoores (Landkreis Oldenburg) wurden fünf Reptilienarten nachgewiesen: Blindschleiche (Anguis fragilis), Waldeidechse (Zootoca vivipara), Schlingnatter (Coronella austriaca), Ringelnatter (Natrix natrix) und Kreuzotter (Vipera berus). Der Einsatz von Reptilienblechen erwies sich nur bei der Erfassung der Blindschleiche als effektiv. Die Waldeidechse war zwar auch unter den Blechen zu finden, konnte aber leichter durch Absuchen geeigneter Strukturen nachgewiesen werden. Schlingnatter und Kreuzotter wurden nicht unter den Reptilienblechen nachgewiesen. Ob Reptilienbleche für die Erfassung der Ringelnatter sinnvoll gewesen wären, kann aus methodischen Gründen nicht entschieden werden. Eine Auswertung der Literatur läßt vermuten, daß unsere Ergebnisse mindestens im Hinblick auf die Erfassung der Schlingnatter nur regionale Bedeutung besitzen. In Regionen mit anderen Habitatbedingungen können die Reptilienbleche auch bei der Erfassung der Schlingnatter hilfreich sein.
Walter, H. (1967) -
Walters, G. (1996) -
Walters, G.J. (1981) -
Two introductions carried out during the 1960`s in southeast England are described; one of green lizards and one of edible frogs. The subsequent fate of each introduction is given, and some factors affecting reproductive potential of these and other species at their northern limits of distribution are discussed.
Walters, G.J. & Ineich, I. (2006) -
Walther, F.W. (1833) -
Wan, H.-F. & Guo, X.-G. & Wang, Y.-Z. (2012) -
The karyotype of Eremias przewalskii from Minqin county,Gansu province was examined using medulla cells and the colchicines-hypotonic air dry technique.Result showed that the karyotype formula of E.przewalskii is 2n=38=36I+2m with NF=38,belonging to type of Eremias argus,consistent with the karyotypes of genus Eremias and family Lacertidae. On the basis of reviewing the reported karyological data of Eremias, the evolution of karyotypes in this genus is discussed.
万宏富 (2012) -
采用常规骨髓细胞制片法
Wan, L.-X. (2006) -
Wan, L.-X. & Sun, S.-H. & Jin, Y.-T. & Yan, Y.-F. & Liu, N.-F. (2007) -
In the present study, relationships among all Chinese species of lacertids in the genus Eremias, E. velox, E. grammica, E. vermiculata, E. przewalskii, E. multiocellata, E. arguta, E. brenchleyi, and E. argus, were assessed using 574 aligned base positions of 16S rRNA mitochondrial DNA sequences from 103 individuals collected from 28 populations. Three kinds of phylogenetic tree (MP, ME, and NJ) were reconstructed and were found to be concordant. All eight species well form a monophyletic group. The resulting genetic distance between E. przewalskii and E. multiocellata is surprisingly low, only 0.008. The result could be due to introgression of the mtDNA molecule. All Eastern-Asia lacertids except E. vermiculata grouped together and formed a monophyletic clade. E. vermiculata are closely related to E. arguta, a Central-Asia species. E. brenchleyi and E. argus formed a monophyletic clade as the sister group of E. multiocellata. The Central-Asia species (E. arguta, E. grammica and E. velox) originated from Central-Asia and Eastern-Asia species (the rest) from China. The phylogenetic relationships among E. grammica, E. velox, E. arguta-vermiculata, E. argus-brenchleyi, and E. multiocellata-przewalskii are unclear in the study, which needs more comprehensive taxonomic sampling from Western Asia and Europe, and additional genetic evidence to resolve it.
Wang, C. & Hsu, J.-Y. & Huang, W.-S. (2014) -
Wang, C. & Tang, X. & Yin, Y. & Yue, F. & Yan, X. & Liu, B. & An, B. & Wang, X. & Chen, Q. (2015) -
Eremias multiocellata is a viviparous lizard that is known to exhibit temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD). Conventional Giemsa staining under light microscope examination has iden-tified the karyotype of this species to be 2 n = 36 I + 2 m, with no detectable heteromorphic sex chromosomes. However, a highly differentiated female-specific chromosome, W, which is homo-morphic with the Z chromosome, is found in the present study by the high-resolution cytogenetic method of comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). The results show that E. multiocellata is a viviparous lizard with both TSD and ZW heterogametic sex chromosomes. Despite the fact that a different sex ratio of male offspring was found in two populations (separated by an altitude of 1400 m) in previous incubation experiments, we demonstrate, using genomic in situ hybridization (GISH), that there is no significant chromosomal loss or acquisition between the two populations. This suggests that temperature may play a more important role in lowland populations. These results most likely indicate that E. multiocellata is transitioning between the evolutionary processes of TSD and genotypic sex determination (GSD) systems, and also give clues to the effect of TSD versus GSD in this process.
Wang, H. & Xie, Y. & Jiao, M. & Hu, X. & Li, J. & Xu, P. & Zhang, Y. (2018) -
The metabolic process of diflubenzuron in rat or fish has been well studied, but little is known about its elimination pathway in lizard. The current study predicted the metabolic route of diflubenzuron in lizard feces and compared the toxicity of diflubenzuron and 4-chloroaniline on lizard thyroid system. The amido bond cleavage was the major route for diflubenzuron elimination in lizard feces. 4-Chloroaniline as the most toxic diflubenzuron metabolite was also abundant in feces. According to liver slices, 4-chloroaniline exposure induced significant changes of nuclear shape, while diflubenzuron exposure caused significant hepatocytes clustering. On the basis of thyroid hormone and thyroid-related gene levels, triiodothyronine (T3) level in lizard liver was regulated by thyroid hormone receptors, while thyroxine (T4) concentration was modulated by dio2 and udp genes after diflubenzuron or 4-chloroaniline exposure. These results showed that both diflubenzuron and 4-chloroaniline could disrupt lizard thyroid system, which could provide evidence for lizard population decline.
Wang, J. & Lyu, Z.-T. & Yang, C.-Y. & Li, Y.-L. & Wang, Y.-Y. (2019) -
A new species, Takydromus yunkaiensis J. Wang, Lyu, & Y.Y. Wang, sp. nov. is described based on a series of specimens collected from the Yunkaishan Nature Reserve located in the southern Yunkai Mountains, western Guangdong Province, China. The new species is a sister taxon to T. intermedius with a genetic divergence of 8.0–8.5% in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene, and differs from all known congeners by a combination of the following morphological characters: (1) body size moderate, SVL 37.8–56.0 mm in males, 42.6–60.8 mm in females; (2) dorsal ground color brown; ventral surface green to yellow-green, but light blue-green on chin and throat, posteriorly green in adult males; (3) dorsolateral lines paired, strikingly yellowish-white bordered by black above and below, invisible or indistinct in juveniles and adult females; (4) flanks of body blackish brown with light brown marks in adult males; (5) presence of four pairs of chin-shields; (6) four supraoculars on each side; (7) presence of a row of supracilary granules that separate supracilaries from supraoculars; (8) two postnasals; (9) enlarged dorsal scales in six longitudinal rows on trunk of body, with strong keel; (10) enlarged ventral scales in six longitudinal rows, strongly keeled in males, smooth but outermost rows weakly keeled in females; (11) enlarged and keeled lateral scales in a row above ventrals; (12) femoral pores 2–3 on each side; (13) subdigital lamellae 20–23 under the fourth finger, 23–30 under the fourth toe; and (14) the first 2–3 subdigital lamellae under the fourth toe divided. The discovery of Takydromus yunkaiensis sp. nov. brings the total number of species of this genus to 24, of which nine occur in mainland China.
Wang, K. & Ren,J. & Chen, H. & Lyu, Z. & Guo, X. & Jiang, K. & Chen, J. & Li, J. & Guo, P. & Wang, Y. & Che, J. (2020) -
We updated the checklists of extant, native amphibians and reptiles of China based on the previously published checklist of reptiles in 2015, the online checklist of amphibians on the database AmphibiaChina, newly published data as of December 2019, and previously uncollected literature prior to 2015. In total, the amphibian fauna of China consists of 515 species in 62 genera, 13 families, and three orders (Anura: 431 species in 47 genera and nine families; Caudata: 82 species in 14 genera and four families; Gymnophiona: one species in one genus and one family), while the reptilian fauna of China consists of 511 species in 135 genera, 35 families, and three orders (Crocodylia: one species in one genus and one family; Testudines: 34 species in 18 genera and six families; Squamata 466 species in 116 genera and 28 families [Serpentes: 256 species in 73 genera, 18 families; Lacertilia: 211 species in 43 genera and 10 families]). Specifically, for amphibians between 2015 and 2019, one family was recorded from China for the first time, two new genera were described, a genus was resurrected, a genus was recorded from China for the first time, 74 new, valid species were either described or resurrected, 18 recognized species were recorded from China for the first time, and six genera and eight species were considered as junior synonyms. For reptiles between 2015 and 2019, five subfamilies were elevated to the full family status, one new subfamily and a new genus were described, three genera were resurrected, three recognized genera were recorded from China for the first time, 35 new species were described, two species were resurrected from synonyms, six subspecies were elevated to the full species status, 10 recognized species were recorded from China for the first time, four genera and four species were considered as junior synonyms, and distribution records of one genus and four recognized species were removed from China. Furthermore, by reviewing literature before 2015, we make additional changes on the previous reptile checklist, including adding new records of three genera, elevating three subspecies to full species status, adding new records of three recognized species, synonymizing three genera and two species as junior synonyms, and removing the distribution record of a single recognized species from China. Lastly, we revise the Chinese common names of some reptilian groups with recomandations to maintain the stability of the Chinese common names. The number of new species and new national records for amphibians and reptiles between 2015 and 2019 in China accounts for 17.1% and 10.2% of the total number of species in each group, respectively. Because new species are described at considerable speed and given the constant changes in the taxonomy of China’s herpetofuna, it is crucial to update the checklists regularly and discuss the existing taxonomic problems, so that such information reflects the most current state of knowledge and are available for taxonomic researchers and conservation biologists alike.
王 剀 任金龙 陈宏满 吕植桐 郭宪光 蒋 珂 陈进民 李家堂 郭 鹏 王英永 车 静 (2020) -
本文在2015年发表的爬行动物名录及同年《中国两栖类信息系统》发布的两栖动物名录的基础上, 通过整 理新发表的分类学研究及先前名录遗漏的部分早期文献, 更新了截至2019年底中国现生本土两栖、爬行动物物种 名录。2015–2019年间, 中国两栖动物新记录1科, 新描述2属, 恢复1属有效性, 新记录1属, 新描述或恢复有效种74 种, 新增国家纪录18种; 另6属、8种的有效性未得到近年研究证据支持(在此视为次定同物异名而未做收录, 后 同)。同期, 中国爬行动物新恢复5科, 新描述1亚科, 新描述1属, 恢复3属有效性, 新记录3属, 新描述、恢复或提 升有效种43个, 新增国家纪录10种; 另有5属、4种的有效性未得到近年研究证据支持, 并移除1属、4种在我国的分 布纪录。此外, 通过整理2015年前文献, 爬行动物增补3属, 提升3亚种至种级地位, 增补国家新纪录3种, 另有3属、 2种的有效性未得到近年研究证据支持, 同时移除1种在我国的分布纪录。综上, 截至2019年底, 我国共记录现生本 土两栖动物3目13科62属515种(蚓螈目1科1属1种, 有尾目3科14属82种, 无尾目9科47属431种), 爬行动物3目35科 135属511种(鳄形目1科1属1种, 龟鳖目6科18属34种, 有鳞目蛇亚目18科73属265种、蜥蜴亚目10科43属211种)。此 外, 本文还对先前名录中部分爬行动物的中文名提出了修改建议, 建议恢复部分物种的惯用中文名。2015–2019年, 新物种及新纪录已知物种数量占现两栖、爬行动物物种总数的17.1%和10.2%。近年来, 我国发表的两栖、爬行动 物新物种和已知物种的新纪录数量持续增加, 分类体系也在研究中不断完善, 建议今后及时地进行阶段性总结, 同时对存在的问题提出讨论, 以推动中国两栖、爬行动物分类学研究工作的进一步开展。
Wang, L. & Ren, Y. & Liu, C. & Li, S. (2009) -
Wang, P. & Ji, X. & Ma, W. (1989) -
Wang, P.-C. & Ji, X. (1997) -
Wang, S. & Liu, J. & Zhang, B. & Guo, X. (2021) -
The complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of Eremias dzungarica from the Junggar Basin in Northwest China was determined for the first time by next generation sequencing. The total length is 19,899bp, containing13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNA genes, 22 transfer RNA genes and one control region. This gene arrangement is similar to the typical mtDNA of vertebrates. The 13 concatenated PCGs were used to perform Bayesian phylogenetic analyses together with several congeners as well as ten representative lacertids with mitogenome data available in GenBank. The resulting phylogenetic tree supports the monophyly of viviparous species in Eremias, with E. dzungarica being more closely related to E. przewalskii than to E. multiocellata. The mitogenome of E. dzungarica will provide fundamental data for the exploration of the mitogenome evolution in lacertids.
Wang, X. & Li, S. & Li, L. & Zhang, F. & Han, X. & Bi, J. & Sun, B. (2019) -
Sympatric reptiles are the ideal system for investigating temperature-driven coexistence. Understanding thermally physiological responses of sympatric lizards is necessary to reveal the physiological mechanisms that underpin the sympatric occurrence of reptiles. In this study, we used three lizard species, Eremias argus, E. multiocellata, and Phrynocephalus przewalskii, which are sympatric in the Inner Mongolia desert steppe, as a study system. By comparing their resting metabolic rates (RMR) and locomotion at different body temperatures, we aimed to better understand their physiological responses to thermal environments, which may explain the sympatric occurrence of these lizards. Our results showed that E. argus had significantly higher RMR and sprint speed than E. multiocellata, and higher RMR than P. przewalskii. In addition, the optimal temperature that maximized metabolic rates and locomotion for E. argus and E. multiocellata was 36°C, whereas for P. przewalskii it was 39°C. Our study revealed the physiological responses to temperatures that justify the sympatric occurrence of these lizards with different thermal and microhabitat preferences and active body temperatures. Eremias argus and E. multiocellata, which have lower body temperatures than P. przewalskii, depend on higher RMR and locomotion to compensate for their lower body temperatures in field conditions. Our study also highlights the importance of using an integrative approach, combining behavior and physiology, to explore the basis of sympatric occurrence in ectothermic species.
Wang, Y. & Guo, B. & Gao, Y. & Xu, P. & Zhang, Y. & Li, J. & Wang, H. (2013) -
Benalaxyl as a xylem-systemic fungicide is usually direct sprayed on the soil surface, which is potential harm to the animals lived in the soil. However, the stereoselectivity of benalaxyl in reptiles have rarely been studied. In this study, Chinese lizards (Eremias argus) were firstly used to evaluate the stereoselectivity in biodegradation and toxicity of racemate and individual enantiomers of benalaxyl. A method for determining residues of the two enantiomers of benalaxyl in lizard blood and liver by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) was developed. The degradation followed pseudo first-order kinetics and the degradation of the (S)-(+)-benalaxyl was faster than its antipode in blood and liver (Half-time t1/2 of (R)-(−)-benalaxyl and (S)-(+)-benalaxyl were 5.08 h and 3.75 h in blood, 6.21 h and 4.45 h in liver, separately). Moreover, antioxidant defenses consisting of activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and lipid peroxide malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined in 24 h acute exposure. Enantioselectivity of acute toxicity depended on the concentration and form of benalaxyl. In addition, cellular degeneration, decrease of cell number, clustering phenomena of cell nuclei and preliminary liver fibrosis were observed in pathological detection at the termination of 21-d subchronic exposure (20 mg/kg−bw of racemate and individual enantiomers of benalaxyl). The enantiomer fractions (EFs) in racemate and individual enantiomer groups were approached both in blood and liver caused by the chiral conversion. The chiral conversion from (R)-(−)-benalaxyl to (S)-(+)-benalaxyl and (S)-(+)-benalaxyl to (R)-(−)-benalaxyl were the primary cause for no remarkable differences in toxicity between the enantiomers of benalaxyl.
Wang, Y. & Han, Y. & Xie, Y. & Xu, P. & Li, W. (2018) -
The Chinese lizards (Eremias argus) were used to evaluate the metabolism, distribution and effect of dinotefuran following oral exposed. The HPLC equipped with Q Exactive focus was used for metabolite identification and concentration analysis. After single oral administration, the time-concentration curves of dinotefuran and its metabolites were tissue-dependent. The liver and kidney were the major metabolic organs. Percutaneous and urinary excretions were the main ways for lizards to eliminate dinotefuran, and the urine output was the limiting factor. Nitro-reduction was an important process of the metabolism of dinotefuran that was dominated by aldehyde oxidase, and P450 enzymes were involved. The CYP3A4 and CYP2C19 played a crucial role in the other metabolic pathways of dinotefuran. The mRNA expressions of GST family were severely inhibited in liver, which showed dinotefuran might pose a risk of damaging the oxidative stress system in liver. Prolonged residuals of dinotefuran and its demethylation metabolite might enhance the risk of dinotefuran to brain. The results enrich and supplement the knowledge of the environmental fate of dinotefuran in reptiles.
WANG, Y. & Han, Y. & Xu, P. & Guo, B. & Li, W. & WANG, X. (2018) -
Systematically evaluation of the metabolism, distribution and effect of imidacloprid in Chinese lizards (Eremias argus) were carried out following oral exposure. Imidacloprid-olefin-guanidine was prone to accumulate in the brain and caused potential neurotoxicity. Percutaneous and excretory excretions were the primary ways for the elimination of imidacloprid and its metabolites. Liver was the main site for hydroxy reduction and nitro-reduction metabolism of imidacloprid. The metabolism of imidacloprid was a complex process in which many metabolic enzymes participated. Aldehyde oxidase and CYP2C9 were the key enzymes in nitro-reduction process. CYP3A4 dominated the process of hydroxylation and desaturation. The increase in Glutathione S-transferase expression may be related to the removal of imidacloprid, but also related to the oxidative stress reaction that imidacloprid may cause in tissues, especially in the kidney. The findings enrich and supplement the knowledge of the environmental fate of imidacloprid in reptiles.
Wang, Y. & Keller, A. (1994) -
Wang, Y. & Li, S.-R. & Pei, M.-Y. & Wu, D.-Y. & Du, W.-G. (2021) -
While the effects of incubation environment on embryonic development and offspring traits have been extensively studied in oviparous vertebrates, studies into how genetic inheritance (population origin), maternal effects, and incubation environment interact to produce varying phenotypes, are rare. To elucidate the interactive role of those three factors during incubation in shaping offspring phenotypes through hydric conditions, we conducted a fully factorial experiment [arid and semiarid populations × maternal dry and wet treatments (MDT and MWT) × embryonic dry and wet treatments (EDT and EWT)] with a desert-dwelling lacertid lizard (Eremias argus). Female lizards in dry conditions produced larger clutch sizes but smaller eggs. The incubation period and hatching success were significantly affected by embryonic but not by maternal moisture treatments. Eggs in the EDT hatched later than those in the EWT in both arid and semiarid populations. Hatching success was lower in EDT than in EWT in the semiarid population, but not in the arid population. Hatchlings from the EDT had a slower post-hatch increase in body mass than those from the EWT. EDT would decrease the survival rates of hatchlings in the semiarid population only. In addition, structural equation models revealed that population had a stronger effect on embryonic and offspring survival than maternal and embryonic moisture. Our study demonstrates locally adaptive strategies of drought resistance at multiple life-history stages in lizard populations from diverse hydric habitats and highlights the importance of genetic factors in determining embryonic drought resistance in oviparous lizards.
Wang, Y. & Li, S.-R. & Zeng, Z.-G. & Liang, L. & Du, W.-G. (2017) -
1. Whether maternal effects are adaptive or not has been a long-standing topic of discussion in evolutionary ecology. The effects of maternal diet on offspring have been addressed by several studies on diverse organisms, but results are typically conflicting or inconclusive. 2. In this study, we conducted food manipulation experiments with a factorial design (high and low maternal food conditions × high and low offspring food conditions) in a viviparous lacertid lizard (Eremias multiocellata) to test four competing hypotheses on the evolutionary significance of maternal effects: environmental matching hypothesis, low-food compensation hypothesis, low-food pathology hypothesis and no-compensation hypothesis. 3. We found that offspring under the maternal low-food treatment had higher growth and survival rates than those under the maternal high-food treatment, supporting the low-food compensation hypothesis rather than the environmental matching hypothesis, which has been widely accepted as an explanation for the adaptive significance of maternal effects. 4. Our study highlights the importance of testing multiple competing hypotheses that involve both adaptive and non-adaptive explanations when studying the evolutionary significance of phenotypic plasticity.
Wang, Y. & Yu, D. & Xu, P. & Guo, B. & Zhang, Y. & Li, J. & Wang, H. (2014) -
In this research, Chinese lizards (Eremias argus) were chosen as laboratory animal to evaluate the stereoselectivity in the processes of metabolism, distribution, and bioaccumulation of triadimefon. A validated chiral high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadruple mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS) method was developed for determining enantiomers’ residues of parent compound triadimefon and its metabolite triadimenol in lizard blood and tissues. Pharmacokinetic results of single-does exposure suggested that S-(+)-triadimefon was metabolized easier than R-(−)-triadimefon, and RR-(+)-triadimenol was the main metabolic product of triadimefon. During the continuous exposure of two dose (40 mg/kgbw•d and 200 mg/kgbw•d), enantiomers of triadimefon and triadimenol were detected in all body compartments, with the highest triadimefon concentrations in brain. However, the triadimenol concentrations were not significantly different among the compartments. The concentrations of RS-(+)-triadimenol were negative correlated with concentrations of RR-(+)-triadimenol both in blood (r=−0.775, p=0.024) and liver (r=−0.834, p=0.02) in 200 mg/kgbw•d group, which indicates that chiral conversion between enantiomers of triadimenol might exist in the metabolic process of triadimefon. In all the processes, the enantiomer fractions (EFs) of R-(−)-triadimefon and RR-(+)-triadimenol were significantly different from their natural ratios, 0.5 and 0.1, respectively, which proved that metabolism, bioaccumulation, and distribution of triadimefon and triadimenol in lizards were enantioselective. These results help enrich and supplement the knowledge of the stereoselective behaviour of triadimefon and triadimenol in reptile.
Wang, Y. & Zeng, Z.-G. & Li, S.-R. & Bi, J.-H. & Du, W.-G. (2016) -
Extreme high temperatures are occurring more frequently with ongoing anthropogenic climate warming, but the experimental tests of the effects of high temperatures on terrestrial vertebrates in natural conditions are rare. In this study, we investigated the effects of extreme high temperatures on female reproduction and offspring traits of multi-ocellated racerunners (Eremias multiocellata) kept in field enclosures in the desert steppe of Inner Mongolia. Our studies indicate that high temperatures significantly affect the gestation period and reproductive output of females and the offspring sex ratio, but have little impact on offspring body size and mass. More interestingly, we found that the effect of extreme high temperatures on female reproductive output was not consistent between two consecutive years that differed in precipitation. Low precipitation may aggravate the impact of climate warming on lizards and negatively affect the survival of lizards in the desert steppe. Our results provide evidence that temperature interacts with precipitation to determine the life history of lizards, and they suggest that a drier and hotter environment, such as the future climate in arid mid-latitude areas, will likely impose severe pressure on lizard populations, which are an important component of the food web in desert areas around the world.
Wang, Y. & Zeng, Z.-G. & Ma, L. & Li, S.-R. & Du, W.-G. (2017) -
Food availability significantly affects an animal`s energy metabolism, and thus its phenotype, survival, and reproduction. Maternal and offspring responses to food conditions are critical for understanding population dynamics and life-history evolution of a species. In this study, we conducted food manipulation experiments in field enclosures to identify the effect of food restriction on female reproductive traits and postpartum body condition, as well as on hatchling phenotypes, in a lacertid viviparous lizard from the Inner Mongolian desert steppe of China. Females under low-food availability treatment (LFT) had poorer immune function and body condition compared with those under high-food availability treatment (HFT). The food availability treatments significantly affected the litter size and litter mass of the females, but not their gestation period in captivity or brood success, or the body size, sprint speed, and sex ratio of the neonates. Females from the LFT group had smaller litter sizes and, therefore, lower litter mass than those from the HFT group. These results suggest that female racerunners facing food restriction lay fewer offspring with unchanged body size and locomotor performance, and incur a cost in the form of poor postpartum body condition and immune function. The flexibility of maternal responses to variable food availability represents an important life strategy that could enhance the resistance of lizards to unpredictable environmental change.
汪洋 曾治高 马亮 李树然 杜卫国 (2017) -
食物可得性作用于动物的能量代谢,进而显著影响其表型特征、生存和繁殖。因此,母体和后代对食物变化的响应对于了解一个物种的种群动态和生活史进化至关重要。本研究在中国内蒙古荒漠草原野外围栏条件下,探讨食物限制对胎生密点麻蜥的繁殖、产后身体状态以及后代表型的影响。发现低食物条件下母体的身体状况和免疫功能较高食物母体差。食物可得性显著影响窝仔数和窝仔重,但并不影响怀仔期、繁殖成功率、幼体体重、疾跑速度和性别比例。低食物母体的窝仔数较小、窝仔重较轻。这些结果表明,面对食物限制的密点麻蜥会减少后代数量,但维持后代大小和运动功能表现不变。该繁殖对策的代价是母体产后的身体状态和免疫能力显著下降。母体对食物可得性变化的灵活响应是重要的生活史对策,有助于蜥蜴应对不可预测的环境变化。
Wang, Y. & Zhang, J. & Feeley, K.J. & Jiang, P. & Ding, P. (2009) -
Following habitat fragmentation, the remnant faunal community will undergo a period of species loss or ‘relaxation.’ Theory predicts that species with particular life-history traits, such as a small population size, small geographical range, low fecundity and large body size, should be more vulnerable to fragmentation. In this study, we investigated the relationships between the above life-history traits and the fragmentation vulnerability index (the number of islands occupied) of five lizard species inhabiting recently isolated land-bridge islands in the Thousand Island Lake, China. Data on life-history traits were collected from field surveys (population density) and from the literature (body size, clutch size and geographical range size). The species–area relationships for lizards sampled from the mainland versus on the islands differed significantly (i.e. the number of species inhabiting islands was decreased relative to similar-sized areas on the mainland), indicating that species extinction has occurred on all of the study islands following isolation. For the fragmentation vulnerability index, model selection based on Akaike’s information criterion identified natural density at mainland sites as the best correlate of vulnerability to fragmentation, supporting the hypothesis that rare species are most vulnerable to local extinction and will be lost first from fragmented landscapes. In contrast, there was little evidence for an effect of lizards’ snout–vent length, clutch size or geographical range size on fragmentation vulnerability. Identification of species traits that render some species more vulnerable to fragmentation than others has important implications for conservation and can be used to aid direct management efforts.
Wang, Y. & Zhang, Y. & Li, W. & Han, Y. & Guo, B. (2019) -
The neurotoxicity of dinotefuran, thiamethoxam and imidacloprid against Chinese lizards (Eremias argus) were evaluated in acute oral exposure and 28d subchronic exposure. Dinotefuran was not easily metabolized and showed strong persistence in the lizard brain. Thiamethoxam and imidacloprid were rapidly absorbed and excreted in lizards, and were not easily enriched in the lizard brain. Dinotefuran and thiamethoxam could directly increase the concentrations of acetylcholine in the brain and blood by up-regulating the expression of the ach gene, which in turn enhanced the binding of acetylcholine and acetylcholinesterase receptors, eventually causing the release of dopamine. The effect of dinotefuran was more pronounced than thiamethoxam. Clothianidin was a major metabolite of thiamethoxam in the brain and aggravated the neurotoxic effects of thiamethoxam. Imidacloprid desnitro olefin was the only metabolite of imidacloprid that enriched in the brain. The protonation effect of imidacloprid desnitro olefin was stronger than that of the parent imidacloprid, which increased its binding ability to lizard acetylcholinesterase receptors. Competitive inhibition of imidacloprid desnitro olefin and acetylcholine led to the down-regulation of ach gene expression. Although neonicotinoids caused the opening of ligand-gated ion channel through the activation of acetylcholinesterase receptors, the body would alleviate these effects by the inhibition of voltage-dependent channel activity for compensatory mechanisms. This study provided a new perspective on the neotoxic effects of neonicotinoids.
Wang, Y. & Zhang, Y. & Li, W. & Yang, L. & Guo, B. (2019) -
The potential endocrine disruption of neonicotinoids poses a significant threat to the survival of small farmland lizards. We systematically evaluated the distribution, metabolism, and toxicity of three neonicotinoids (dinotefuran, thiamethoxam, and imidacloprid) in the Eremias argus during a 35-day oral administration exposure. Lizards could quickly transfer and store neonicotinoids into the scale and eliminated through molting. Dinotefuran was most prone to accumulation in lizard tissues, followed by thiamethoxam, and imidacloprid was generally present in the form of its terminal metabolite 6-chloropyridinyl acid. Exposure to dinotefuran resulted in hepatic oxidative stress damage, decreased plasma growth hormone concentration, and down-regulation of ghr, igf1 and igfbp2 gene expression. These indicated that dinotefuran might have potential growth inhibition toxicity to lizards. Although imidacloprid caused severe liver oxidative stress damage, the effect of imidacloprid on GH/IGF axis was not obvious. Compared to dinotefuran and imidacloprid, thiamethoxam had the least damage to liver and minimal impact on GH/IGF axis. This study verified the possible damage of neonicotinoids to lizard liver and the interference of GH/IGF axis for the first time.
Wang, Y. & Zhang, Y. & Xu, P. & Guo, B. & Li, W. (2018) -
Systematic evaluation of the metabolism, distribution, and effect of thiamethoxam in Mongolian racerunner (Eremias argus) was carried out after oral exposure. HPLC equipped with Q Exactive focus was used for identification and concentration analysis of thiamethoxam and its metabolites. Percutaneous and urine excretions were the primary ways for the elimination of thiamethoxam and its metabolites, and the limiting factor was urine output. Demethylated thiamethoxam and clothianidin were the main metabolites of thiamethoxam in lizards. CYP3A4, CYP3A7, and CYP2C9 played a crucial role in the metabolism process. Aldehyde oxidase only dominated the nitro-reduction process of demethylated thiamethoxam and clothianidin. Glutathione S-transferase might be related to the clearance process of thiamethoxam and its metabolites. The findings indicated that thiamethoxam might pose potential carcinogenic and hepatic injury risk to lizards. The results enrich and supplement the knowledge of the environmental fate of thiamethoxam in reptiles.
Wang, Y. & Zhang, Y. & Zeng, T. Li, W. & Yang, L. & Guo, B. (2017) -
The endocrine disrupting effect of pesticides is considered to be an important factor in the decline of reptile populations. The large-scale application of neonicotinoids in the environment poses a potential threat to small farmland lizards Eremias argus. In this study, we evaluated the disruption effects of thiamethoxam and its metabolite clothianidin on the endocrine disruption of Eremias argus during 28 d exposure. Thiamethoxam and clothianidin could accumulate in the testis and ovary. Adequate blood exchange was the main cause of thiamethoxam and clothianidin accumulation in the gonads. The production of clothianidin aggravated the effect of endocrine disruption to lizards. Thiamethoxam/clothianidin exhibited two distinct ways of interfering with the endocrine disruption of the male and female lizards. Thiamethoxam/clothianidin significantly up-regulated the expression of cyp17 and cyp19 genes in the testis, which ultimately led to a significant decrease in testosterone levels and a significant increase in the 17-estradiol concentrations in plasma. The expression of the estrogen receptor gene in the liver was also significantly increased in male lizards. The significant declines in testosterone and prostaglandin D2 levels in the plasma indicated that thiamethoxam and clothianidin could cause androgen deficiency in male lizards. Meanwhile, in female lizards, thiamethoxam/clothianidin increased the expression of hsd17β gene in the ovary, causing an increase in testosterone levels in the plasma and an up-regulation of androgen receptor expression in the liver. The effects of thiamethoxam and clothianidin on male lizards were more pronounced. This study verified the possible endocrine disrupting effects of neonicotinoids and provided a new perspective for the study of global recession of reptiles.
Wang, Y. & Zhou, L. & Shi, L. (2014) -
Wang, Y.-Y. & Gong, S.-P. & Liu, P. & Wang, X. (2017) -
Many early descriptions of species of the genus Takydromus were based on limited diagnostic characteristics. This has caused considerable challenges in accurate species identification, meaning that a number of cryptic species have been erroneously identified as known species, resulting in substantially underestimated species diversity. We have integrated evidence from morphology and DNA sequence data to describe a new species of the Asian Grass Lizard, Takydromus albomaculosus sp. nov., based on two specimens from Tianjingshan Forestry Station, Ruyuan County, Guangdong Province, China. The new species can be distinguished from other known Takydromus species by distinctive morphological differences and significant genetic divergence in the mitochondrial COI gene. Morphologically, the new species differs from the known 22 congeners in the following combination of characters: relatively large body size, SVL 70.9 mm in female, 65.5 mm in male; presence of three or four pairs of femoral pores and four pairs of chin-shields; supraoculars three, rarely four, the posterior loreal either in contact with the anteriormost supraocular or not; the presence of supraciliary granules; the presence of six rows of ventral scales, strongly keeled in the male, and smooth but with the outermost row keeled in the female; the presence of enlarged and keeled lateral scales in a row above the ventrals, but shorter than the ventrals; subdigital lamellae 23–24 under the fourth finger and 29–30 under the fourth toe; dorsal surface brown, ventral surface green, flank dark brown or brown black with several prominent white round spots; the presence of a pair of white longitudinal dorsolateral stripes and a pair of white longitudinal ventrolateral stripes. Takydromus albomaculosus sp. nov. represents the twenty-third species of this genus, of which six species occur in northern Guangdong, where the biodiversity level of Takydromus is the second highest in the world, just below that of Taiwan.
Wang, Z. & Chen, L. & Zhang, L. & Zhang, W. & Deng, Y. & Liu, R. & Qin, R. & Zhou, Z. & Diao, J. (2020) -
Effects of temperature on metabolism/biotransformation and toxicokinetics to lizards are significant, but frequently ignored in toxicology studies. Beta-cyfluthrin (BC) is a pyrethroid insecticide and has been widely used globally. The study aimed to understand the diverse adverse effects of BC to the lizard (Eremias argus) at different temperature regimes. We carried out a single oral BC treatment (20 mg/kg bw) for toxicokinetic study and a 7-day BC (10 mg/kg bw) gavage to look at toxicology by monitoring changes in the biomarkers HSP70, SOD, MDA, CarE, UDPGT, GST, cyp genes, and other metabolic responses. Results showed that BC was lethal to lizards, showing oxidative damages in the liver at ambient temperature (25 °C). Heat stress (35 °C) could exacerbate the oxidative damage (MDA increased) caused by BC, due to the disorder of the antioxidant defense system. The result of tissue distribution and toxicokinetic study also showed that temperature affected the BC biotransformation in lizards. The biotransformation of BC maybe relates to the activation of CarE and UDGPT by heat stress. However, the cyp system and GST didn`t increase under BC or/and heat treatments. 1H-NMR metabolomics analysis showed that BC or/and heat stress interfered with energy and amino acid metabolism of the liver. Unlike acute lethal toxicity, the occurrence of the BC and heat stresses has detrimental effects on lizard individuals and populations on sub-lethal levels. Our results indicate that pollution and global warming (or some other extremely weather) may generate significant and harmful effects on lizards.
Wang, Z. & Liu, R. & Zhang, L. & Yu, S. & Nie, Y. & Deng, Y. & Liu, R. & Zhu, W. & Zhou, Z. & Diao, J. (2021) -
Risk assessments of the ecotoxicological effects insecticides impose on ectotherms have increasingly considered temperature. However, the changes toxicants induce in thermoregulatory behavioral traits may lead to a divergence of thermal selection and temperature-dependent changes of contaminant toxicity. This study demonstrated the interaction of behavioral thermoregulation and temperature-dependent toxicity of beta-cyfluthrin (BC) in the lizard Eremias argus. Based on the negative relationship between temperature and BC toxicity, seeking a warming environment was assumed to represent a self-rescue behavior (and vice versa). The results showed that BC-treated lizards (0–20 μg/g body weight (bw)) showed such self-rescue behavior, while lizards exposed to an extremely high BC dose (200 μg/g bw) sought a cooler environment. Biochemical assays showed that BC affected neurotransmitter systems, caused oxidative stress, and interfered with ion-transport in the central nervous system. Biomarkers of the cholinergic and glutamatergic system, ion-transport function, and oxidative stress were identified as potential biochemical variables related to thermoregulatory behavior. Apparently, seeking a warmer environment is a survival strategy with the aim to neutralize BC toxicity, while seeking a cooler environment aims to attenuate the harmful effects of metabolic and oxidative stress, and to decelerate internal BC diffusion. This phenomenon could be also explained by the concept of the “cooling trap”, i.e., a behavior where cooler temperatures are sought. This impairs survival after exposure to BC at it has a negative temperature coefficient, derived from a dysfunction of the central nervous system regarding thermoregulation caused by the high dosage of neurotoxicant and resulting temperature maladaptation. Implications of the interaction between thermoregulatory behavior and temperature-dependent toxicity are presented, which may aid further temperature-dependent risk assessments.
Wang, Z. & Nie, Y. & Yu, S. & Chen, L. & Zhang, L. & Zhu, W. & Zhou, Z. & Diao, J. (2023) -
In this study, the temperature-dependent chemical toxicity of three insecticides and the resulting thermoregulatory (TR) behavior of the lizard Eremias argus have been consolidated into the current risk assessment framework. According to acute dermal toxicity assays, an increase of ambient temperature from 15 °C to 35 °C decreased the acute dermal toxicity of beta-cyfluthrin (BC) but increased the toxicity of chlorpyrifos (CPF). The toxicity of avermectin (AVM) did not show significant temperature-dependent responses. Based on thermal preference trials, lizards changed their body temperature via TR behavior to adaptively reduce toxicity under sub-lethal doses, which can be understood as a “self-rescue” behavior attenuating lethal effects. However, the risk quotient indicated that the effectiveness of this “self-rescue” behavior is limited. Metabolomics analysis showed that six different metabolites (i.e., creatine, glutamate, succinate, N-acetylaspartate, acetylcholine, and lactate) contributed to TR behavior changes. Biochemical assays and insecticide residue results demonstrated that the temperature-dependent toxicity of BC, CPF, and AVM affected lizards in the three aspects of biotransformation, oxidative stress, and neurometabolic interference. This work clarifies the ecotoxicological impacts of representative insecticides on reptiles from toxicological understanding to risk relevance. This knowledge may improve ecological predictions of agrochemical applications in the context of global climate change.
Wang, Z. & Tian, Z. & Chen, L. & Zhang, W. & Zhang, L. & Lie, Y. & Diao, J. & Zhou, Z. (2020) -
Reptiles are an important part of vertebrates and are the primitive terrestrial vertebrates. However, lots of reptile species are endangered or susceptible to extinction. It is no doubt that contaminants are one of the important reasons for the decline of the lizard population. In this study, the selective metabolism of triadimenol (TN) in the male Eremias argus lizards and the toxic effects of TN on lizards were studied. TN chiral isomers were separated and detected by HPLC-MS/MS system with Lux Cellulose-1 column. Tissue distribution experiments showed the existence of stereoselectivity biotransformation of TN enantiomers among organs in lizards, and RR-TN preferentially emerged over the other enantiomers. The antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GST) activities and MDA content assays demonstrated that TN induced oxidative stress in most organs, especially in the liver, and the histopathology analysis showed the severe liver and testis damage caused by 14-day continuous TN gavage. The reproductive effects of TN-induced reflected in the increased sex hormone testosterone. This research confirms that TN could induce hepatic and reproductive toxicity of E. argus lizard.
Wang, Z. & Xia, Y. & Ji, X. (2009) -
Wang, Z. & Xia, Y. & Ji, X. (2011) -
Abstract Background: Studies of lizards have shown that offspring size cannot be altered by manipulating clutch size in species with a high clutch frequency. This raises a question of whether clutch frequency has a key role in influencing the offspring size- number trade-off in lizards. Methodology/Principal Findings: To test the hypothesis that females reproducing more frequently are less likely to tradeoff offspring size against offspring number, we applied the follicle ablation technique to female Eremias argus (Lacertidae) from Handan (HD) and Gonghe (GH), the two populations that differ in clutch frequency. Follicle ablation resulted in enlargement of egg size in GH females, but not in HD females. GH females switched from producing a larger number of smaller eggs in the first clutch to a smaller number of larger eggs in the second clutch; HD females showed a similar pattern of seasonal shifts in egg size, but kept clutch size constant between the first two clutches. Thus, the egg size- number trade-off was evident in GH females, but not in HD females. Conclusions/Significance: As HD females (mean = 3.1 clutches per year) reproduce more frequently than do GH females (mean = 1.6 clutches per year), our data therefore validate the hypothesis tested. Our data also provide an inference that maximization of maternal fitness could be achieved in females by diverting a large enough, rather than a higher-than-usual, fraction of the available energy to individual offspring in a given reproductive episode.
Wang, Z. & Zhu, W. & Xu, Y. & Yu, S. & Zhang, L. & Zhou, Z. & Diao, J. (2021) -
The residue of simazine herbicide in the environment is known as one of pollutant stress for lizards by crippling its fitness on direct toxic effects and indirect food shortage via the food chain effects. Both stressors were considered in our experiment in the simazine exposure and food availability to lizards (Eremias argus). The results revealed that starvation significantly reduced the lizard’s energy reserve and native immune function, while the accumulation of simazine in the liver was significantly increased. Simazine caused oxidative stress in the liver of lizards, but oxidative damage only occurred in the starved lizards. Simazine also changed the energy reserves, native immune function and detoxification of well-fed lizards, while the starved lizards showed different sensitivity to simazine. Simazine or starvation treatment independently activated the lizard HPA axis, but co-treatment caused the HPA axis inhibition. Besides, according to the variations on amino acid neurotransmitters, corticosterone hormone and thermoregulatory behavior, we inferred that lizards in threatens take the appropriate strategy on energy investment and allocation through neural, endocrine and behavioral pathways to maximize benefits in dilemma. Energy allocation was necessary, while suppression on any physiological process comes at a cost that is detrimental to long-term individual fitness.
Wanrooy, V.v. (1987) -
Wapstra, E. & Olsson, M. (2014) -
Warnecke, R. (1998) -
Warnecke, R. (2000) -
This article presents first results for breeding Lacerta agilis boemica, a subspecies of the sand lizard from the northern and northeastern Caucasus region. Short remarks are made to the knowledge of these lizards. Results are given for incubation time, size of clutches, eggs and hatchlings and relative clutch weight. Some of these data are also shown graphically in comparison with those of three other already examined subspecies to demonstrate further intraspecific variability of reproduction parameters in L. agilis.
Warnecke, R. & Bosch, H.A.J. in den & Bischoff, W. (2002) -
Warner, J.K. & Combrink, X. (2007) -
Wartenberg, H. & Baumgarten, H.G. (1969) -
Using 5-hydroxydopamine and5-hydroxydopa as false sympathetic transmitters the authors identified noradrenergic nerves inside the pineal organ of the lizard. These nerves are part of sympathetic autonomic neurones; their unmyelinated processes are identified by a large number of dense core vesicles the electron dense content of which has increased significantly following pretreatment with the catechol-analogues. There are three parts of the pineal organ where noradrenergic nerves have been found electron microscopically: 1) Close to the blood vessels in the perivascular connective tissue compartment, 2) between cells and their processes inside the epithelium of the pineal organ, 3) free in the lumen of the pineal gland. In some cases club shaped terminations contact parts of sensory cells especially their outer segments. No synaptic contacts to secretory cells have been detected so far.
Wartlick, M. & Brandt, T. (2018) -
The nature reserves Steimbker Kuhlen and Rodewalder Lichtenheide are located in the district of Nienburg, Lower Saxony. In 2017 the reptile fauna of 11 sample plots, in which several measures of heath management had been applied, was mapped. All six reptile species indigenous to Lower Saxony and currently reproducing in the wild were found: slow worm, sand lizard, viviparous lizard, smooth snake, grass snake and adder. Thus, the study area can be seen as a priority area for reptile protection in Lower Saxony. Reptiles were found in open and half-open habitats with well-structured or degenerated heathland as well as in marginal strips along areas with little vegetation, such as waysides and the fringes of plots in which machines have been used in the course of heath management. Heathland plots in which the vegetation was drastically reduced by mowing or completely removed by sod plugging (to establish open soil) were generally avoided by reptiles even years after accomplishment, but were populated in the marginal structures. Consequently, measures meant to conserve heathland and to support and establish reptile populations at the same time should be applied with spatial and temporal zoning in order to increase structural diversity and create suitable habitats. This means, that large plots should be split into several small plots and measures should be applied s maintaining enough areas with older vegetation. Key habitats of reptiles as well as those of other threatened animal and plant species should be spared or treated manually.
Washington, O. (2020) -
This newspaper article reports on the longterm consequences of a deliberate release of alien Common Wall Lizards (Podarcis muralis maculiventris, Venetian lineage) on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada in the year 1970.
Wasiolka, B. (2007) -
Wasiolka, B. & Blaum, N. & Jeltsch, F. & Henschel, J. (2009) -
We studied the effects of overgrazing on the foraging behaviour of the lizard Pedioplanis l. lineoocellata (Spotted Sand Lizard), a sit-and-wait forager, in habitats of differing vegetation states to determine the effects of habitat degradation on this species. At high grazing intensity where vegetation cover and diversity is low, the lizard P. lineoocellata moves more frequently, spends more time moving and covers larger distances than in habitats where vegetation cover and diversity is high. These behavioural changes in movement patterns can be explained by less abundant prey in habitats with low vegetation cover and diversity. Although morphology, phylogeny and physiology of P. lineoocellata should constrain the change in foraging behaviour, the species has modified its foraging strategy from sit-and-wait to actively foraging. We assume that this behavioural flexibility of P. lineoocellata is a buffer mechanism enabling the species to use and survive in degraded (unfavourable) habitats.
Wasiolka, B. & Jeltsch, F. & Henschel, J. & Blaum, N. (2010) -
Although the effects of grazing-induced savannah degradation on animal diversity are well documented, knowledge of how they affect space use or responding behaviour remains poor. In this study, we analysed space use of the spotted sand lizard (Pedioplanis l. lineoocellata) in degraded versus nondegraded habitats of southern Kalahari savannah habitats. Lizards were radio tracked, daily movement distances recorded and home range sizes calculated. In degraded Kalahari savannah habitats where plant diversity and perennial grass cover are low but shrub cover high, P. lineoocellata moves larger distances (40.88 ± 6.42 m versus 27.43 ± 5.08 m) and occupies larger home ranges (646.64 ± 244.84 m2 versus 209.15 ± 109.84 m2) than in nondegraded habitats (high plant diversity, high perennial grass cover and low shrub cover). We assume that this increase in daily movement distances and home range sizes is a behavioural plasticity to limited food resources in degraded savannah habitats. Although P. lineoocellata is able to adjust to resource-poor savannah habitats, the increase in the lizard’s movement activities is likely to result in a higher predation risk. This is supported by the lower availability of protective vegetation i.e. perennial grass cover. Hence, we conclude that despite behavioural plasticity of P. lineoocellata, overgrazing has a severe negative impact on the space use of P. lineoocellata.
Watanabe, H. & Yano, E. (2010) -
Three mantid species, Tenodera aridifolia (Stoll), Hierodura patellifera (Serville), and Statilia maculata Thunberg, of varying body size and habitats, exhibited defensive reactions when faced with a natural enemy, the Japanese skink, Takydromus tachydromoides (Schlegel). Defensive reactions were analyzed as primary or secondary defenses for all stages. Of the primary defenses, the cryptic reaction was the main defensive reaction: mantids lowered the prothorax and simultaneously stretched the prothoracic legs, the antennae were arranged forward, and the abdomen was sometimes extended posteriorly. The frequency of the subcryptic reaction as a primary defense tended to increase with more advanced developmental stage. The primary defensive strategy switched at specific developmental stage and also depended on the distance between the prey mantid and the natural enemy. In some instars, T. aridifolia and H. patellifera displayed the cryptic reaction when the mantid—foe distance was long, whereas they displayed the subcryptic reaction when the mantid—foe distance was short. However, S. maculata did not switch defense strategies based on the mantid—foe distance. The secondary defenses of young instar nymphs of T. aridifolia and H. patellifera were primarily defensive reactions, whereas the frequency of aggressive reactions tended to increase with developmental stage. S. maculata did not display aggressive reactions during any stage. We concluded that the primary and secondary defenses used by mantids depend on the developmental stage and mantid—foe distance. Moreover, three mantid species that vary in both body size and habitat showed different defensive reactions when faced with a natural enemy.
Watkins-Colwell, G.J. & Dornburg, A. & Hawlena, D. & Moore, J.A. (2010) -
The Yale University Prehistoric Expedition to Nubia collected zoological specimens and archeological artifacts from Egypt and the surrounding region from 1962 to 1965. A total of 2486 herpetological specimens were collected during this time, representing 51 species and 13 families. Among the herpetological specimens is a series of 1232 Chalcides ocellatus and a recently described species of spitting cobra (Naja nubiae). Because most of the collection sites are now under Lake Nasser, most specimens represent extirpated populations. Some specimens are of taxa now considered endangered species in Egypt. Although the primary purpose of the YUPEN expedition was to preserve the rich anthropological history south of Aswan, the herpetological specimens that were preserved provide a valuable temporal snapshot into the historical ecosystems that were present in Lower Egypt.
Watkins, S. & Tamez, V. & Gizicki, Z. & Pafilis, P. & Foufopoulos, J. (2016) -
The Aegean Wall lizard (Podarcis erhardii) has a wide distribution across the islands of the Aegean Sea. The seemingly unexplained absence of the species from Paros (Central Cyclades), as well as from most (but importantly not all) of the surrounding archipelago, has been noted for over a century and has remained one of the most tantalizing mysteries in Aegean herpetology. Over the last 10 years we visited Paros and all of the surrounding islands mapping out the distribution of the species and quantifying the local ecological conditions. Based on field observations, laboratory measurements and analysis of historical records and utilizing a tree regression approach we offer for the first time an explanation for the likely processes that produced the unusual distributional pattern of P. erhardii.
Watson, C.M. & Roelke, C.E. & Pasichnyk, P.N. & Cox, C.L. (2012) -
Numerous vertebrates employ one or more autotomous body parts as an anti-predation mechanism. Many lizards possess an autotomous tail that is brightly colored blue, which has been suggested to either serve as a decoy mechanism to divert predator attention to the autotomous body part, as an interspecific signal, or as an aposematic signal to predators that it is distasteful or dangerous. While theoretical studies suggest that a conspicuous autotomous body part that increases the probability of escape while not increasing the rate of detection will be favorable over a completely cryptic form, there is little empirical evidence supporting the adaptive benefit of an autotomous blue tail. We used in situ clay models of a scincid lizard to test the fitness consequences of blue coloration. Lizard models with a dark base color and blue decoy coloration experienced no measurable difference in avian predation relative to an all-dark model, which suggests that blue coloration neither serves as an aposematic signal nor increases the conspicuousness of the lizard model. Despite statistically similar attack rates, avian attacks on models with blue coloration were indeed focused on body sections that were colored blue. Our results suggest that the blue tail in lizards serves as an effective decoy, and that avian predation has possibly played a role in the evolution of the blue tail.
Weatherford, H.L. (1932) -
Weber, A. (1877) -
Weber, H. (1957) -
1. Wenn Eidechsen sich beim Sonnenbad annähernd rechtwinklig zur Strahlung hinlegen, richten sie sich allein nach den Wärmestrahlen, nicht nach dem Licht. 2. Isoliert aufgezogene Smaragdeidechsen gingen schon vom Schlüpfen an, wenn man sie in die Enge trieb, in Notwehrstellung. Auch das Drohverhalten ist angeboren, jedoch bei Jungen und Alten ein wenig verschieden; artfremde Eidechsen bedrohen sich ebenso wie artgleiche Rivalen. Im ersten Lebensjahr zeigten die Jungen keinerlei Kampfverhalten, und die Demutgebärde fehlte den isoliert Aufgezogenen noch im Alter von 18 Monaten. Als Erbkoordinationen konnten an ihnen auch die Putzbewegungen, der Beutefang und das „Weglaufen mit Beute“ nachgewiesen werden 3. Im Smaragdeidechsen-Gehege kämpft der Tyrann zur Fortpflanzungszeit stärker gegen ranghohe als gegen wesentlich schwächere ♂♂. Ranghohe Rivalen zeigten vor ihm nicht die ausgesprochene Demutgebärde, die schwächeren ♂♂ Schutz verlieh und dem Abwehrverhalten umworbener, nicht paarungswilliger ♀♀ auffallend ähnlich war. Das stärkste ♂ balzte und verpaarte sich wesentlich öfter als die schwächeren, die es oft vertrieb. Daß die Paare oder ein ♂ mit mehreren ♀♀ in Freiheit längere Zeit in einem Revier beisammen bleiben, ist nach Gehege-Beobachtungen nicht wahrscheinlich. 4. Obwohl die „muralis-Gruppe“ morphologisch gut gegen die Zaun-, Smaragd- und Perleidechsen abgegrenzt ist, steht unsere Mauereidechse der Smaragdeidechse im Verhalten näher als den grünen Mauereidechsen L. melisellensis und L. sicula. Das L. muralis-♂ nähert sich dem Weibchen in Drohbalz und hört, wenn dieses es abweist, sogleich zu werben auf. Dagegen ist im Rivalenkampf die Demutsgebärde unwirksam. In der Freiheit kämpfen Mauereidechsen sehr selten, und das ♂ lebt mit einem oder mehreren ♀♀ in einem Revier. Eindringlinge fliehen meist schon beim Anblick des Revierinhabers, der sie nicht über die Grenze hinaus verfolgt. 5. Im Gehege lebende Perleidechsen drohen breitseits wie die Zauneidechse, was der bei beiden Arten auffälligen Kontrastfärbung längs der ganzen Flanke entspricht. Wahrscheinlich haben Perleidechsen einen Kommentkampf (Kopfbiß). Sie balzen nur sehr schwach, und der Paarungsmarsach fehlte. Sobald die Paarungsbereitschaft des ♀ abgeklungen war, versuchte kein ♂ mehr, es anzubalzen. Wahrscheinlich haftet dem brünstigen ♀ ein besonderer Duft an. Die Demutgebärde der Perleidechse ist unter Wegfall von Bewegungsanteilen imVergleich zu den kleineren Lacerta-Arten am stärksten ritualisiert. 6. Die soziale Demutgebärde stimmte bei allen drei Arten weitgehend bis völlig mit dem Abwehrverhalten umworbener ♀♀ überein. Immer waren diese dadurch besser geschützt als die ♂♂, bei der Mauereidechsen sogar nur die ♀, die ♂ nie. Daher ist anzunehmen, daß die soziale Demutgebärde vom weiblichen Abwehrverhalten abstammt.
Weber, H. (1959) -
Weber, L. (1904) -
Webster, J. (1983) -
Weddeling, K. & Sachteleben, J. & Behrens, M. & Neukirchen, M. (2009) -
In Art. 11 verpflichtet die FFH-Richtlinie die EU-Mitgliedsstaaten zum Aufbau eines systematischen Monitoringsystems der in der Richtlinie genannten Arten, um ihren alle 6 Jahre zu bilanzierenden Erhaltungszustand auf einer soliden Datenbasis zu bewerten. Nachdem in Deutschland die Bewertung zum Erhaltungszustand der Schutzgüter im letzten nationalen Bericht 2007 (für die Berichtsperiode 2001.2006) noch größtenteils auf Expertenvoten der Länder basierten, entwickelten Bund und Länder in einem mehrjährigen Prozess Vorschläge für ein abgestimmtes länderübergreifendes Monitoring, das ab 2008 greifen soll. Am Beispiel der betroffenen Amphibien- und Reptilienarten der FFH-Anhänge werden die EU-Vorgaben und die Eckpunkte des deutschen Konzeptes vorgestellt. In Deutschland werden aufgrund bestimmter statistischer Überlegungen und Randbedingungen Arten mit mehr als 63 Vorkommen in einer biogeografischen Region mit einer randomisierten Stichprobe von 63 Vorkommen untersucht, alle selteneren Arten komplett erfasst (»Totalzensus«). Dabei werden Vorkommen einmal räumlich festgelegt und dann immer wieder bearbeitet (verbundenes Design), solange eine Art dort noch vorkommt. Grundlage der Felderfassungen und Bewertungen an den einzelnen Vorkommen sind artspezifische Bewertungsschemata, die Erfassungsmethoden und Bewertungsschwellen definieren. Für die Anhangsarten der Herpetofauna kommen gängige (semi-) quantitative Methoden (z.B. Rufer- oder Laichballenzählungen, Transektzählungen, Reusenfänge) zum Einsatz, allerdings überwiegend ohne aufwändigere Fang- Wiederfangmethoden. Das bundesweite FFH-Monitoring ist eine Überblicksüberwachung mit Fokus auf die Bundesebene und die Berichtspflicht und für die meisten Schutzgüter nicht hinreichend zur Beantwortung von Fragen des Gebietsmanagements oder der Verträglichkeitsprüfungen. Hierfür sind vertiefende Erhebungen in den Ländern notwendig.
Weddeling, K. & Schulte, U. (2017) -
Wedel L. von (1923) -
Wehrle, B.A. & Herrel, A. & Nguyen-Phuc, B.-Q. & Maldonado, S. & Dang, R.K. & Agnihotri, R. & Tadic, Z. & German, D.P. (2020) -
Wehrle, B.A. &Traverne, M. & Herrel, A. & Krajnovic, M. & Tadic, Z. & German, D.P. (2018) -
Weicherding, F.J. (2005) -
Weinreich, H. & Reer, P. (2009) -
Weipert, J. (2016) -
Weissinger, H. (1987) -
Weissinger, H. (1989) -
Observations on the habitat selection and vertical distribution of Lacerta graeca from coastal areas of the southern Peloponnesos (Greece) reveal a more extended ecological flexibility of the species than hitherto known.
Weissmair, W. (2002) -
Weixler, R. (1996) -
Welch, K. (1982) -
Welch, K.R.G. & Cooke, P.S. & Wright, A.S. (1990) -
Welcker, H. (1866) -
Welcxh, R.J. (1922) -
Weldon, W.F.R. (1883) -
Wellenreuther, M. & Runemark, A. & Svenson, E.I. & Hansson, B. (2009) -
Fifteen polymorphic markers were developed from a microsatellite-enriched library for the lizard Podarcis gaigeae. The loci were checked for variability in 68 individuals from a population on the island of Skyros, Greece. The number of alleles ranged from 3 to 23 per locus and expected heterozygosity from 0.29 and 0.94. Most markers were also polymorphic in three closely related Podarcis species, namely P. erhardi, P. taurica and P. milensis. The markers will be used to examine gene flow and differentiation of island and mainland populations of P. gaigeae.
Wendelin, K. (2011) -
Weng, S. & Chen, X. (2020) -
Survey of natural resources is fundamental for biodiversity conservation, and is critical for monitoring species population and distribution to inform effective management. In this study, we conducted a preliminary survey on reptiles and amphibians in Hui-Sun Forest Recreation Area, and checked the existence of Amphiesma miyajimae, an endangered species that was recorded 20 years ago in the recreation area. Amphibians and reptiles were surveyed from July to August of 2019 by transect survey (including visual encounter method and audio strip transects), funnel traps, and survey of road-killed animals at four transects. Efficiency of different survey methods was compared and Chi-square test was used to test whether capturing efficiency of amphibians and reptiles was affected by funnel trap types (including single-ended funnel traps and double-ended funnel traps) and trap locations. We recorded 301 amphibians (4 family, 9 species) and 34 reptiles (10 family, 14 species). However, we did not find any sign of Amphiesma miyajimae. The most prominent survey method was visual encounter method, followed by audio strip transects. Trapping efficiency of single-end funnel traps and double-end funnel traps were not significantly different. Trapping locations did not affect trapping efficiency. Because the number of species caught by traps was low, the results may need further validation.
Went, A.E.J. (1944) -
Werber, I. (1906) -
Werff, J. van der (1944) -
Werff, J.P. van der (1946) -
Wergan, R. (2023) -
Wermuth, H. (1955) -
Wermuth, H. (1958) -
Werner, F. (1891) -
Werner, F. (1893) -
Werner, F. (1894) -
Werner, F. (1895) -
Werner, F. (1897) -
Werner, F. (1898) -
Werner, F. (1899) -
Werner, F. (1900) -
Werner, F. (1902) -
Werner, F. (1903) -
Werner, F. (1904) -
Werner, F. (1905) -
Werner, F. (1906) -
Werner, F. (1908) -
Werner, F. (1910) -
Werner, F. (1912) -
Werner, F. (1913) -
Werner, F. (1917) -
Werner, F. (1919) -
Werner, F. (1920) -
Werner, F. (1925) -
Werner, F. (1926) -
Werner, F. (1929) -
Werner, F. (1930) -
Werner, F. (1931) -
Werner, F. (1933) -
Werner, F. (1934) -
Werner, F. (1935) -
Werner, F. (1936) -
Werner, F. (1938) -
Werner, Y. (1952) -
Werner, Y. & Disi, M. & Mousa Disi, A.M. (2006) -
Werner, Y.L. (1971) -
Werner, Y.L. (1986) -
Werner, Y.L. (1987) -
Werner, Y.L. (1991) -
From material in the Hebrew University, Cyrtodactylus scaber (Gekkonidae) is reported for the first time from Jordan, and the occurrence there of Bunopus blanfordii (Gekkonidae) and Acanthodactylus pardalis (Lacertidae) is confirmed. Coluber elegantissimus (Colubridae) is re-instated in Jordan’s herpetofaunal list.
Werner, Y.L. (2004) -
A new species of the Acanthodactylus pardalis group, A. ahmaddisii sp.n., is described from Jordan, from a single specimen which differs from A. pardalis (Lichtenstein, 1823) of east- ern Libya and Egypt, and A. beershebensis Moravec et al., 1999 from Israel. Compared to the lat- ter two populations, A. ahmaddisii is larger with smaller head and shorter appendages and fewer (larger) dorsals. It also differs in qualitative pholidotic characters, especially by having tricarinate subdigitals, and in colour pattern.
Werner, Y.L. (2016) -
Werner, Y.L. & Ashkenazi, S. (2010) -
hese notes on some Egyptian lacertid lizards contribute to faunal data for the planning of biodiversity conservation. Mesalina bahaeldini curatorumn. subsp. is described from Suez, characterized by coloration and larger (fewer) body scales. Range extensions are documented for Acanthodactylus aegyptius, Mesalina olivieri, and M. rubropunctata. The previously reported occurrence of A. opheodurusin Sinai is doubted. The fact that the M. b. curatorum types were collected in the 1820s demonstrates the importance of museum collections.
Werner, Y.L. & Gajst, O. & Talbi, R. & Bouskila, A. (2012) -
The distribution of the Arabian desert lizard Acanthodactylus opheodurus Arnold, 1980 in the Levant is re-examined. West of Jordan it is almost limited to the ‘Arava Valley, absent from most of the Negev and from Sinai. This correction of an earlier report derives from re-identification of specimens, relying on the colour pattern difference from the syntopic sibling A. boskianus asper (Audouin, 1829). The vertebral dark stripe is simple in A. opheodurus but forked in A. boskianus. The vertebral stripe is forked but light-colored in two geographically adjacent related taxa, A. b. boskianus (Daudin, 1802) of northern Egypt and A. schreiberi syriacus Boettger, 1878 of coastal Israel.
Werner, Y.L. & Ibrahim, A.A: (2012) -
Die Unterscheidung zwischen Acanthodactylus boskianus asper (AUDOUIN, 1827) und A. b. boskianus (DAUDIN, 1802) war wegen der Variabilität innerhalb der ersteren Form immer wieder Diskussionsgegenstand. Wir beschreiben ein bis jetzt übersehenes qualitatives Pholidose-Merkmal, das zwar bei A. b. boskianus aber weder bei A. b. asper noch bei mehreren anderen Taxa der Gattung vorkommt, und zwar einen vertebralen Streifen von kleineren Rückenschuppen. Die Klärung der systematischen Bedeutung benötigt weitere Untersuchungen.
Werning, H. (2009) -
Werning, H. (2012) -
Werning, H. (2016) -
Werning, H. (2021) -
Werning, H. (2022) -
Westbroek, R. van (2001) -
Westbroek, R. van (2002) -
CHRISTMAS CHILOREN. PART 2 This arricle is a sequel ro a recenr arricle of rhe aurhor (van WESTBROEK, 200I}, in which rhe reproduceion of some smal! species of European lizards (Podarcis melisellemis, Lncerttt oxycep/;n/n en Alg;lfoides nigropunctntis) is discussed. In rhis parr special arrenrion is given ro rhe incubarion of rhe eggs and rhe rearing of rhe young animals. Differenr subsrrares can be used for rhe incubarion of rhe eggs, bur rhe aurhor prefers porring composr for succulenrs. This has a good airy srrucrure and has good moisr-regularing qualiries. W hen using nor roo high incubarion-remperarures, for insrance 24,5°C, rhe harchlings are somewhar larger, wirh a bigger porrion offemalcs, compared ro when using higher incubarion-remperarures. The juveniles are reared in smal! conrainers, dimensions 45x25x25 cm (lxwxh), wirhour a lid and wirh a smal! spot- light (incandescenr 40 W or halogen 50 W wirhour rhe glass UV-prorecrion). Using plastic terrariums wirhout seams keeps rhe crickers inside. Ar firsr rhe juveniles are fed smal! crickers, unril rhey reach a lengrh ar which rhey can ear buffalo-worms. C rickers and buffi1lo-worms can be fed ground per- food for dogs. In rhe drinking-warer Calcium Iae- tare is dissolved, one reaspoon in a beer-glass. Warer-soluble viramins are added in a concenrra- rion of I mi per lirre water. The vitamin-supple- ment comains 50.000 I.E. vitamin A and I0.000 I.E. vitamin 03 per mi. Ir is viral rhar rhe li7..ards as wel! as rhe insecrs are fed properly and rhar rhe drinking-warer is rene- wed every day. lf you are a bir slack wirh rhis, the resulrs of rearing rhe young lizards wil! decline.
Westbroek, R. van (2004) -
Westbroek, R. van & Smit, G. (2006) -
Westermann, A. (2004) -
Westrin, L. (1985) -
Wettstein-Westersheimb, O. (1956) -
Wettstein-Westersheimb, O. (1960) -
Wettstein-Westersheimb, O. von (1968) -
Wettstein, O. (1926) -
Wettstein, O. (1928) -
Wettstein, O. (1931) -
Wettstein, O. (1940) -
Wettstein, O. (1949) -
Wettstein, O. (1952) -
Wettstein, O. (1953) -
Wettstein, O. (1957) -
Wettstein, O. von (1937) -
Wettstein, O. von (1938) -
Wettstein, O. von (1951) -
Wettstein, O. von (1964) -
Wettstein, O. von (1965) -
Wettstein, O. von (1967) -
Wever, E.G. (1968) -
Wevers Jr., A. (1909) -
Weyrauch, G. (1979) -
Weyrauch, G. (1985) -
Weyrauch, G. (1993) -
Weyrauch, G. (1999) -
Weyrauch, G. (2005) -
Weyrauch, G. (2007) -
Weyrauch, G. (2008) -
Weyrauch, G. (2022) -
Von 12 überwiegend aus Südwestdeutschland stammenden Zauneidechsen (Lacerta agilis), die mindestens 5 und maximal 21, Jahre im Freilandterrarium lebten, wurden die Häutungsdaten registriert. Zwei langjährig gehaltene Eidechsen unterschiedlichen Geschlechts häuteten sich im ersten Jahr nach dem Schlupf 6x, im zweiten Jahr 5x und später durchschnittlich 4x im Jahr. Bei den 6 Männchen war die mittlere jährliche Häutungsrate 4,7, bei den Weibchen 3,8. Die individuellen Unterschiede in der Häutungsfrequenz waren bei den 6 Weibchen klein (alle bei 4x), bei den 6 Männchen dagegen erheblich (zwischen 4 und 5,5x). Im jahreszeitlichen Ablauf liegen die Häutungsdaten der Weibchen deutlich später als die der Männchen. Das erste Häutungsintervall ist bei den Weibchen viel länger, was mit der Eiablage zusammenhängt. Im Fall einer zweiten Eiablage im Jahr wird auch das zweite Intervall deutlich verlängert. Die erste Häutung im Jahr, die von den Wetterbedingungen abhängig ist, beeinflusst die folgenden Häutungsdaten, weil es einen allgemeinen Häutungsrhythmus gibt. Artgenossen des gleichen Geschlechts haben im selben Jahr meistens ähnliche Häutungsdaten. Die Intervalle zwischen den Häutungen sind von der Temperatur abhängig.
Weyrauch, G. (2025) -
Wezel, H. van & Nuijten, K. (1984) -
Wezeman, B. (1960) -
Wherle, B.A. & Herrel, A. & Tadic, A. & German, D.P. (2014) -
Few studies of diet incorporate analyses of what an animal is actually digesting. Knowing what an animal digests (as opposed to only what it ingests) allows us to understand if its physiology and morphology are optimized for its nutritional source. According to the Adaptive Modulation Hypothesis, dietary specialization should lead to gut specialization. We investigated potential digestive specializations in a lizard species that has shown rapid evolution of feeding and digestive tract morphology. A population of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis sicula) in Croatia has become primarily herbivorous and morphologically distinct from its insectivorous source population in <30 generations. Though some morphological changes have been documented, it is unknown if gut function has shifted with this diet change. We compared the gross morphology of the intestines of both groups of lizards, compared their diets, and measured performances using digestive enzyme activities and concentrations of fermentation end products (short chain fatty acids, SCFAs). In a common garden experiment, we measured digestive efficiency of lizards from the herbivorous and source populations on different diets. Experiments are in progress, but we expected that the plant−eating population would have more plant material in their guts and a hindgut chamber in their distal intestines. Moreover, we expected to find differences in enzymatic activities among the populations, with the herbivores showing elevated carbohydrase activities. We also anticipated that the plant−eating population will have slower food transit times, increased microbial fermentation, and increased digestibility of a plant diet than the insectivorous population. Overall, this study will test whether rapidly evolving morphological features can translate into changes in animal performance.
While, G. & Uller, T. & Heathcote, R. (2013) -
Recent research suggests that multiple introductions of distinct lineages are common in invasive species. Despite this, the impact of admixture on the fitness of introduced populations, and consequently its contribution to their evolutionary potential, has received little attention. Sexual selection should be of particular importance for understanding colonisation dynamics as it is fundamental to the maintenance of genetic variation, reproductive output, and hence population growth. Furthermore, sexual selection is predicted to be highly context-dependent. For example, variance in genetic diversity resulting from admixture should strongly influence the mating strategies employed by males and females, and thus, regulate both population dynamics and accelerate (or impede) the introgression of genotypes. We have shown that human introductions of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) into the UK have brought into contact several genetically and phenotypically distinct lineages. This has significant implications for mating behaviours employed by individuals. Here we show that females do not discriminate behaviourally between males of different origins despite large differences in male morphology, pheromone profiles, and behavioural dominance between clades. Nevertheless, paternity in mixed-origin semi-natural populations was highly assortative. This could be due to male mate choice or male-male competition that results in assortative paternity in the absence of male choice per se. We discuss how these results could influence the evolutionary consequences of secondary contact in the context of formation of hybrid swarms versus reinforcement and completion of speciation.
While, G.M. & Michaelides, S. & Heathcote, R.J.P. & MacGregor, H.E.A. & Zajac, N. & Beninde, J. & Carazo, P. & Perez i de Lanuza, G. & Sacchi, R. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Horvathov, T. & Fresnillo, B. & Schu (2015) -
Hybridisation is increasingly recognised as an important cause of diversification and adaptation. Here, we show how divergence in male secondary sexual characters between two lineages of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) gives rise to strong asymmetries in male competitive ability and mating success, resulting in asymmetric hybridisation upon secondary contact. Combined with no negative effects of hybridisation on survival or reproductive characters in F1-hybrids, these results suggest that introgression should be asymmetric, resulting in the displacement of sexual characters of the sub-dominant lineage. This prediction was confirmed in two types of secondary contact, across a natural contact zone and in two introduced populations. Our study illustrates how divergence in sexually selected traits via male competition can determine the direction and extent of introgression, contributing to geographic patterns of genetic and phenotypic diversity.
While, G.M. & Uller, T. (2017) -
The likelihood that females will breed or how much they invest in reproduction can depend on the characters of their male partners. Such differential allocation may enhance or limit gene flow between hybridizing lineages, in particular when the lineages have diverged in sexually selected characters. Populations of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) in some regions of Italy exhibit striking exaggeration of coloration, morphology and behaviour compared to populations in France. The two forms hybridize in north-western Italy. Gene flow is directional and in concordance with the prediction that the exaggerated sexual characters of lizards of Italian origin give them a mating advantage. To evaluate if differential allocation contributes to asymmetric introgression, we tested experimentally if female reproductive investment is affected by male origin and male secondary sexual characters. Despite the large genetic and phenotypic divergence between males of Italian and French origin, females did not invest more when paired with males of the same origin, nor when paired with males with highly expressed sexual characters. Combined, these results suggest that female responses to male phenotypes in wall lizards are unimportant for explaining the directional pattern of gene flow in regions of secondary contact.
While, G.M. & Williamson, J. & Presco, G. & Horváthova, T. & Fresnillo, B. & Beeton, N.J. & Halliwell, B. & Michaelides, S. & Uller, T. (2015) -
Successful establishment and range expansion of non-native species often require rapid accommodation of novel environments. Here, we use common-garden experiments to demonstrate parallel adaptive evolutionary response to a cool climate in populations of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) introduced from southern Europe into England. Low soil temperatures in the introduced range delay hatching, which generates directional selection for a shorter incubation period. Non-native lizards from two separate lineages have responded to this selection by retaining their embryos for longer before oviposition—hence reducing the time needed to complete embryogenesis in the nest—and by an increased developmental rate at low temperatures. This divergence mirrors local adaptation across latitudes and altitudes within widely distributed species and suggests that evolutionary responses to climate can be very rapid. When extrapolated to soil temperatures encountered in nests within the introduced range, embryo retention and faster developmental rate result in one to several weeks earlier emergence compared with the ancestral state. We show that this difference translates into substantial survival benefits for offspring. This should promote short- and long-term persistence of non-native populations, and ultimately enable expansion into areas that would be unattainable with incubation duration representative of the native range.
White, J. & Richard, M. & Massot, M. & Meylan, S. (2011) -
Sexually transmitted diseases have often been suggested as a potential cost of multiple mating and as playing a major role in the evolution of mating systems. Yet there is little empirical data relating mating strategies to sexually transmitted microorganisms in wild populations. We investigated whether mating behaviour influences the diversity and composition of cloacal assemblages by comparing bacterial communities in the cloaca of monandrous and polyandrous female common lizards Zootoca vivipara sampled after the mating period. We found that polyandrous females harboured more diverse communities and differed more in community composition than did monandrous females. Furthermore, cloacal diversity and variability were found to decrease with age in polyandrous females. Our results suggest that the higher bacterial diversity found in polyandrous females is due to the sexual transmission of bacteria by multiple mates. The impact of mating behaviour on the cloacal microbiota may have fitness consequences for females and may comprise a selective pressure shaping the evolution of mating systems.
White, L. (2012) -
White, M.E. (1957) -
Whitehead, P.F. (2010) -
Whiting, M.J. (1996) -
Whittington, C.M. (2021) -
Whittington, C.M. & Dyke, J.U. van & Liang, S.Q.T. & Edwards, S.V. & Shine, R. & Thompson, M.B. & Grueber, C.E. (2022) -
How innovations such as vision, flight and pregnancy evolve is a central question in evolutionary biology. Examination of transitional (intermediate) forms of these traits can help address this question, but these intermediate phenotypes are very rare in extant species. Here we explore the biology and evolution of transitional forms of pregnancy that are midway between the ancestral state of oviparity (egg-laying) and the derived state, viviparity (live birth). Transitional forms of pregnancy occur in only three vertebrates, all of which are lizard species that also display intraspecific variation in repro- ductive phenotype. In these lizards (Lerista bougainvillii, Saiphos equalis, and Zootoca vivipara), geographic variation of three reproductive forms occurs within a single species: oviparity, viviparity, and a transitional form of pregnancy. This phenomenon offers the valuable prospect of watching ‘evolution in action’. In these species, it is possible to conduct comparative research using different reproductive forms that are not confounded by speciation, and are of relatively recent origin. We identify major proximate and ultimate questions that can be addressed in these species, and the genetic and genomic tools that can help us understand how transitional forms of pregnancy are produced, despite predicted fitness costs. We argue that these taxa represent an excellent prospect for understanding the major evolutionary shift between egg-laying and live birth, which is a fundamental innovation in the history of animals.
Wieczorek, M. & Najbar, B. (2020) -
Background. The sand lizard Lacerta agilis (Linnaeus, 1758) is widespread throughout Eurasia. So far, several of its subspecies have been described, but only ten of them have been officially recognized. There are two subspecies in Poland: L. agilis agilis and L. agilis argus, but their exact range has not been determined yet. One of the main features that is officially considered an acceptable taxonomic index is the triangu¬lar arrangement (1/2) of two postnasal scales (scuta postnasalia) and one loreal scale (scuta frenale). However, in many L. agilis populations, significant deviations from the typical pattern of these scales were found. Methods. 607 sand lizards were caught. 170 in Żary, 150 in Zielona Góra, and 287 in Nowa Sól. The lizards were caught by hand. Their age, sex (adult female, adult male, or juvenile specimens) and the number of sc. postnasalia and sc. frenale were deter¬mined. Detailed photographic documentation of each individual was also made. Results. A typical arrangement of postnasal scales and a loreal scale was observed in 83 % of the lizards from Żary, 78.6 % lizards from Zielona Góra and 77 % lizards from Nowa Sól. The most common deviations from the pattern 1/2 occurred in the lizards from Nowa Sól. Their biggest variations related to as many as 9 deviations (1/0, 1/1, 1/3, 2/0, 2/1, 2/2, 2/3, 2/7 and 3/2). 25 % of changes in the arrangement of the scales were de¬tected in males, 27 % of changes were observed in females, and 16 % in juveniles. The 2/2 arrangement was the most common. The lizards from Zielona Góra had the smallest variation of deviations as they occurred only in two patterns, namely 1/1, 1/2 with equal frequency. The scale arrangements that have been described occurred in 25 % of males, 27 % of females and 14 % of juveniles. In lizards from Żary, the changes related to four patterns of deviations. Specifically, the 1/1, 2/1, 2/2 and 3/2, and 2/2 pattern was the most common. Various scale arrangements were observed within the same population in 20 % of males, 15 % of females and 17 % of juveniles. No differences in the occur¬rence of deviations among the populations (χ2 = 10.83, df = 10, P = 0.37) and between females and males (χ2 = 9.97, df = 1, P = 0.99) were observed, however, considerable differences between adults and juveniles (χ2 = 4.60, df = 1, P = 0.032) were noticed. Conclusion. The results confirmed the observations of other scientists who pointed to a considerable variation in the morphology of sc. postnasalia and sc. frenale in the sand lizards. It was stated that the number and the arrangement of the aforemen¬tioned scales is not a reliable and consistent feature that can always be applied in order to consistently identify L. agilis in western Poland.
Wieczorek, M. & Najbar, B. (2022) -
Background. Over 700 species of ticks are characterised by moderate to high host specificity, and a handful by very high host specificity, parasitizing upon a single host species. The rest are not host specific. One of them is the castor bean tick, which parasitizes all available terrestrial vertebrates including humans. Poland lacks tick species that are reptile-specific, since, as reported by K. Siuda (1993), these ectoparasites generally prefer endotherms, namely birds and mammals. However, the literature reports that the prevalence of castor bean tick infestation of local sand lizard populations is as high as 13.2 % – 40.4 %. Observations of different authors also indicate that outside the period of regular tick appearance on lizards, individual lizards can have very high tick loads, varying between several to over 100. Materials and Methods. The research was conducted in three separate study areas in western Poland: Żary, Zielona Góra and Nowa Sól. 606 specimens of sand lizards were captured, analysed and photographed. 222 (36.6 %) of them were infested with ticks. With each capture ticks were checked and removed. The lizards were caught by hand. Inter-group two-way and three-way ANOVA and Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated with the use of IBM SPSS Statistics 23 software. Threshold of statistical significance was set to α = 0.05. Results. In total 1339 ticks were obtained from lizards, all of which were castor bean ticks (Ixodes ricinus). 914 (68.2 %) were larvae, 424 (31.7 %) were nymphs and 1 (0.1 %) was an adult female. The highest number of ticks (778) was collected from lizards at Żary site. The most infested male from Żary was parasitized upon by 55 ticks, from Zielona Góra – by 46 and from Nowa Sól – by 15. In regard to females these numbers were 36, 34 and 15, respectively. The average infestation (defined as number of ticks) was higher for lizards from Żary than for those from Zielona Góra (p < 0.001) and Nowa Sól (p < 0.001), which also differed from each other in a statistically sig nificant way (p = 0.001). Main effect of sex/age group turned out to be statistically significant, F(2.796) = 67.75; p < 0.001; η2 = 0.15. Hence post-hoc analysis was carried out and showed that males carried higher number of ticks than females and juveniles (p < 0.001). Females, on the other hand, carried more ticks than juveniles (p < 0.001). Conclusion. The research confirmed a significant role of sand lizards in propagation of Ixodes ricinus. It was shown that lizards were affected mainly by early developmental stages of ticks. The prevalence of tick infestation was 36.6 % – 58.1 % for Żary, 28.1 % for Zielona Góra and 13.8 % for Nowa Sól. The average tick load on sand lizards was 2.5 individuals. The highest number of them was collected from 58.5 % of males, 36.4 % of females and 5.1 % of juveniles. High tick infestation of males can be explained by their higher mobility, especially during mating season.
Wieczorek, M. & Rektor, R. & Najbar, B. & Morelli, F. (2020) -
The sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) is a common species in Europe that inhabits a wide range of habitats, including anthropogenic environments. It is a frequent carrier of common ticks (Ixodes ricinus), which poses a severe threat to the lizards’ health. We determined the living space used by lizards in a rapidly changing environment and ascertained the number of parasitic ticks found throughout the reptile’s active season. We conducted telemetry research on a dynamically developing housing estate located on the outskirts of the city of Zielona Góra (western Poland) in 2016-2017. We obtained data from 16 adult lizards, from which we collected 2529 ticks. Using generalized linear models (GLMs), we determined the relationships among the number of transmitted parasites, size of occupied areas (minimum convex polygon, MCP), the weight of lizards, and sex of lizards. Results indicated that the number of ticks was negatively correlated with lizard body mass, but positively correlated with home range. Sex was not significantly associated with the number of ticks. Additionally, the parasite load was lower during the lizard’s non-breeding season than during the breeding season and was lower for males than for females during the non-breeding season. Males have larger home ranges than females.
Wiedemann, M (1910) -
Wiedemann, M. (1909) -
Wiegmann, A.F.A. (1834) -
Wiegmann, A.F.A. (1835) -
Wiegmann, A.F.A. (1837) -
Wiens, J.J., (2016) -
In this lecture, I will briefly present recent research from my lab addressing three main questions: (1) what are the relationships among lizard families? (i.e. where do lacertids fit relative to other families?); (2) what explains differences in species richness among lizard clades? and (3) how will climate change impact the future of lizard diversity? For the first part, I will describe our recent analyses of squamate phylogeny using data from multiple nuclear genes, morphology, and fossils. I will also describe our analyses combining phylogenomic and supermatrix approaches for squamates, and our analyses of squamate phylogeny using phylogenomic data from thousands of nuclear loci from ultraconserved elements. For the second part, I will discuss our analyses of patterns of diversification and species richness among lizard families, with special emphasis on the relative importance of microhabitat and large-scale climate in explaining these patterns. For the third part, I will discuss our analyses of the potential impacts of climate change on lizard diversity. I will discuss our analyses of rates of climatic niche evolution, rates of climate change, and local extinction. I also hope to include our most recent analyses incorporating introduced species, and our analyses of the impacts of climate change on the Sky Island lizards of southeast Arizona.
Wierz, F. (2016) -
Wijffels, L. (1954) -
Wijffels, L. (1956) -
Wijk, D.P. van (1956) -
Wilén, M. (2011) -
Although the core temperature of lizards can vary with, for example, species, age, size, gender and season, they, in fact, maintain core temperature within an effective and safe range for biochemical and CNS processes. Desert dwelling lizards have evolved behaviors that minimize contact with dangerously hot sand, and to regulate the heat flow between the environment and their bodies. Shuttling between sun and shade, and digging are effective, but in certain situations it is disadvantageous to move, and instead, modification of posture in situ is employed. The postures include thermoprotective thermoregulation, as when a lizard lifts feet and/or legs and tail off the surface to avoid getting feet burnt, and thermoregulation when it stands on all legs with the torso lifted high off the substrate to minimize heat flow from the substrate. These behaviors can at times conflict, as when it needs to support itself on the hot sand, while lifting the body to defend core temperature. Resolution of this conflict often is with a “thermal dance”. To analyze this “thermal dance” of the Wedge-snouted lizard we experimentally investigated the core temperature at which the transition from thermoprotection to thermoregulation occurred. To quantitatively assess the behaviors, numerical score systems were developed for thermoprotection, P0-4 and thermoregulation, R1-3. During the southern hemisphere summer of 2011, two female lizards, weighing 4 g and 9 g, were captured and implanted with temperature transponders. Computerized control of the substrate temperature and simultaneous records of core temperature and videos of behavior were accomplished using an inexpensive solar-powered portable field laboratory. The system enabled arbitrary and rapid changes in substrate temperature, which allowed us to separate time from core temperature as the controlling variable of the behavior. Our preliminary results show that there was a specific core temperature at which either of the lizards adopted thermoregulatory posture R3, >39.5°C and >41.5°C for the lizard with the higher and lower weight, respectively. The slopes of core temperature rise during the test program were similar for both lizards, thus the size difference did not affect the independent variable. Preconditioning with a higher initial substrate temperature effectively shifted the distribution of core temperatures during test. The simultaneous recording of core temperature and behavior without manually manipulating the lizard provides many opportunities for exploring behavioral thermoregulation. This compact and inexpensive laboratory setup that was developed is appropriate for student work in places with limited resources.
Wilhelma Zoologisch-Botanischer Garten Stuttgart (1992) -
Will, L. (1896) -
Wille, K.-D. (1969) -
The feces of two European lizards have been analysed chemically. It could be shown that insect prey caught by the lizards in the wild resulted in a far higher amount of nitrogen in these feces than does mealworms as food.
Williams, D.L. (2016) -
Transection or damage to the mammalian optic nerve generally results in loss of retinal ganglion cells by apoptosis. This cell death is seen less in fish or amphibians where retinal ganglion cell survival and axon regeneration leads to recovery of sight. Reptiles lie somewhere in the middle of this spectrum of nerve regeneration, and different species have been reported to have a significant variation in their retinal ganglion cell regenerative capacity. The ornate dragon lizard Ctenophoris ornatus exhibits a profound capacity for regeneration, whereas the Tenerife wall lizard Gallotia galloti has a more variable response to optic nerve damage. Some individuals regain visual activity such as the pupillomotor responses, whereas in others axons fail to regenerate sufficiently. Even in Ctenophoris, although the retinal ganglion cell axons regenerate adequately enough to synapse in the tectum, they do not make long-term topographic connections allowing recovery of complex visually motivated behaviour. The question then centres on where these intraspecies differences originate. Is it variation in the innate ability of retinal ganglion cells from different species to regenerate with functional validity? Or is it variances between different species in the substrate within which the nerves regenerate, the extracellular environment of the damaged nerve or the supporting cells surrounding the regenerating axons? Investigations of retinal ganglion cell regeneration between different species of lower vertebrates in vivo may shed light on these questions. Or perhaps more interesting are in vitro studies comparing axon regeneration of retinal ganglion cells from various species placed on differing substrates.
Williams, R. & Dunn, A. & Mendes da Costa, L. & Hassall, C. (2020) -
Aim Invasive species are one of the main causes of biodiversity loss world-wide. As introduced populations increasein abundance and geographical range, so does the potential for negative impacts on native communities. As such, there is aneed to better understand the processes driving range expansion as species become established in recipient landscapes. Weinvestigated the potential for population growth and range expansion of introduced populations of a non-native lizard (Podarcismuralis), considering multi-scale factors influencing growth and spatial spread. Location England, UK Methods We collatedrecords ofP. muralispresence through field surveys and a citizen science campaign. We used presence-only models to predictclimate suitability at a national scale (5km resolution), and fine-scale habitat suitability at the local scale (2m resolution). Wethen integrated local models into an individual-based modelling platform to simulate population dynamics and forecast rangeexpansion for 10 populations in heterogeneous landscapes. Results National-scale models indicated climate suitability restrictedto the southern parts of the UK, limited by a latitudinal cline in overwintering conditions. Patterns of population growthand range expansion were related to differences in local landscape configuration and heterogeneity. Growth curves suggestpopulations could be in the early stages of exponential growth. However, annual rates of range expansion are predicted to below (5-16 m). Conclusions We conclude that extensive nationwide range expansion through secondary introduction is likely to berestricted by currently unsuitable climate beyond southern regions of the UK. However, exponential growth of local populationsin habitats providing transport pathways is likely to increase opportunities for regional expansion. The broad habitat niche of P. muralis, coupled with configuration of habitat patches in the landscape, allows populations to increase locally with minimal dispersal.
Williams, R.J. (2019) -
Key to the management of biological invasions is the assessment of an invading species’ potential for progression from introduction to establishment to invasion. Heterogeneity within the introduced range as well as variation in the nature of the introductions (timing, source, propagule pressure) create spatial and temporal variation in invasion dynamics, while population lags can mask the true potential for invasion success and subsequent impacts, and should be a consideration when making management decisions. I studied several measures of individual fitness, namely body condition, hemoparasite prevalence, and tail damage, in 12 established populations of the common wall lizards, Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768), introduced to southern England and Vancouver Island, British Columbia. As introduction history, habitat occupied, and native origins differ between populations, I hypothesised that aspects of morphology and fitness may therefore also vary between populations, thus influencing invasive potential. Capture-mark-recapture (CMR) methods used to estimate population sizes indicated densities generally lower than those reported for native and introduced populations in the literature. Lineage was a significant factor for variation in body size, with male and female lizards of Italian origin being 4.5% and 4% larger than counterparts of French lineage, respectively. Differences in body condition were site specific, with little effect of habitat type or lineage. Tail damage was more prevalent in lizards inhabiting urban sites than those from more rural habitats. I found hemogregarine infection in only one of nine populations screened (prevalence 54%). Intensity of infection was low compared to data in the literature with no detectable effect on body condition. Estimates of low wall lizard density compared to densities elsewhere suggest UK populations, although established for >40 years in some cases, may be exhibiting a lag phase in population growth post-introduction. Furthermore, significant variation in aspects of individual fitness between populations may influence the dynamics of their invasion potential making some populations more ‘high risk’ than others for transition to invasion. These findings, in addition to the effectiveness of capture methods and high levels of recapture during CMR, provide the first indication that targeted eradication/control may be feasible at some UK sites and that decisions to initiate such efforts need to consider the possibility of acting prior to a potentially abrupt breakthrough in apparent lag phase.
Williams, R.J. & Dunn, A.M. & Hanke, G. & Dixon, J.W. & Hasalla, C. (2020) -
The human-assisted movement of species beyond their native range facilitates novel interactions be-tween invaders and native species that can determine whether an introduced species becomes invasiveand the nature of any consequences for native communities. Avoiding costly interactions throughrecognition and avoidance can be compromised by the naïvety of native species to novel invaders andvice versa. We tested this hypothesis using the common wall lizard,Podarcis muralis, and the native lizardspecies with which it may now interact in Britain (common lizard, Zootoca vivipara, sand lizard, Lacerta agilis) and on Vancouver Island (northern alligator lizard, Elgaria coerulea) by exploring species` re-sponses (tongueflicks, avoidance behaviour) to heterospecific scent cues in controlled experiments. Thetongueflick response of P. muralis depended on the different species’scent, with significantly moretongueflicks directed to E. coerulea scent than the other species and the control. This recognition did notresult in any other behavioural response in P. muralis (i.e. attraction, aggression, avoidance).Lacerta agilis showed a strong recognition response to P. muralis scent, with more tongueflicks occurring close to the treatment stimuli than the control and aggressive behaviour directed towards the scent source. Conversely, Z. vivipara spent less time near P. muralis scent cues than the control but its tongueflick rate was higher towards this scent in this reduced time, consistent with an avoidance response. There was no evidence of E. coerulea recognition of P. muralis scent in terms of tongueflicks or time spent near the stimuli, although the native species did show a preference for P. muralis-scented refuges. Our results suggest a variable response of native species to the scent of P. muralis, from an avoidance response by Z. vivipara that mirrors patterns of exclusion observed in the field to direct aggression observed in L. agilis and an ambiguous reaction from E. coerulea which may reflect a diminished response to a cue with a low associated cost. These results have significant implications for the invasive success and potential impacts of introduced P. muralis populations on native lizards.
Willigalla, C. & Hachtel, M. & Kordges, T. & Schwarze, M. (2011) -
Wilms, T. & Hulbert, F. (2003) -
Wilson, M. (2008) -
Wilson, M. (2010) -
Winden, J. van der & Bogaerts, S. & Strijbosch, H. (1997) -
Thirty-four species of amphibians and reptiles were found in the Göksu Delta and adjacent mountains, Turkey in 1991 (4 amphibians, 6 turtles, 14 lizards, and 10 snakes). The mountains were richer in species composition, but in the delta, high densities occurred, and three rare turtle species were found; Caretta caretta, Chelonia mydas and Trionyx triunguis. Apart from the latter, two more vulnerable species were present in the study area: Chamaeleo chamaeleon and Coluber rubriceps. The hills adjacent to the delta, the dunes, and the partially open agricultural delta landscape contained the highest diversity and densities. In species composition, the Göksu Delta is one of the most important deltas in Turkey, Conservation of the herpetofauna of the Göksu Delta and adjacent mountains will guarantee the survival of an important part of all species occurring in the southeastern Turkish Mediterranean region
Wingarz, J. (1936) -
Winkler, C. & Hussel, B. (2013) -
Winkler, C. & Krütgen, J. & Brehm, K. (2016) -
Bei einer Auswertung der Daten des Arten- und Fundpunktkatasters Schleswig-Holstein und einer ergänzenden Literaturrecherche wurden 35 Angaben zum Vorkommen der Zauneidechse auf der Insel Sylt recherciert, die aus dem Zeitraum von 1700 bis 2015 stammen. Als gesichert werden Fundortangaben aus insgesamt zehn Gebieten eingestuft. Diese befinden sich auf den Nehrungshaken und auch der Geest. Aus dem Zeitraum von 2000 bis 2015 liegen nur noch vier Nachweise aus zwei Gebieten vor, sodass sich ein massiver Bestandsrückgang der Art abzeichnet. Von den als gesichert angesehenen Nachweisen lassen 27 Angaben grobe Rückschlüsse auf die besiedelten Lebensräume zu. Demnach entfallen 21 Angaben auf Dünenlebensräume der Nehrungshaken und sechs auf Geestheiden und –kliffs. Auf der Insel besiedelt die Zauneidechse offenbar bevorzugt Weißdünen und Strandhaferbewuchs.
Winter, F. (1935) -
Wirga, M. & Majtyka, T. (2013) -
Two isolated populations of the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768), were discovered in southwestern Poland in 2011 and 2013. Both populations inhabit quarries.
Wirga, M. & Majtyka, T. (2015) -
Climate seems likely to play the key role in determining the northern range limits of reptiles in mid-latitude Europe, as these ectothermic animals are dependent on external conditions. We tested this hypothesis for the example of common wall lizard Podarcis muralis (Laur.), and showed that it tolerates a wide range of different climatic factors, therefore could be potentially distributed more to the north from the northern limit of its native range. However, the main factor limiting the occurrence of the lizard in its northern range is the presence of suitable habitats, particularly rocky areas. Human economic activity in mid-latitude Europe resulted in the development of such suitable habitats in areas of advantageous climatic conditions. In this way, human created niches suitable for the species as well as provided routes of access to these areas, what resulted in the increase the range of this lizard to the north.
Wirth, M. (2013) -
Wirtz, P. (1991) -
Wirtz, P. (1994) -
Wirtz, P. (1998) -
Witalinski, W. (1974) -
Witte, G.-F. (1966) -
Witte, G.-F. de (1933) -
Witte, G.-F. de (1942) -
Witte, G.-F. de (1953) -
Lacertidae from page 84.
Witte, G.-F. de & Laurent, R.F. (1942) -
Witte, G.F. de (1948) -
Wittig, W. (1976) -
Wittig, W. (1986) -
Wittig, W. (1987) -
Wockenfuß, H. (1955) -
Wolf, J. (1799) -
Wolf, J. (1805) -
Wolfensberger, M. & Forssmann, W.G. & Reinecke, M. (1995) -
Antisera specific for mammalian atrial natriuretic peptied (ANP) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) were applied to examine, in immunofluorescence, the occurrence of cells immunoreactive to ANP and NPY in the adrenal organs of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and bony fish. Catecholamine-containing cells were identified using antisera against tyrosine-hydroxylase, dopamine-β-hydroxylase, and phenylethanolamine-N-methyl-transferase. In all vertebrates studied, immunoreactivities to ANP and NPY occurred in adrenal chromaffin cells but were absent from the cortex or its homolog, the interrenal. The majority of immunoreactivities to ANP and NPY was confined to the adrenaline cells. In mammals, the number of ANP-immuno-reactive cells (60%–80% of the total cell population) exceeded that of the NPY-immunoreactive cells (35%–45%). In birds, reptiles, and Amphibia, the numbers of ANP-immunoreactive (35%–40%) and NPY-immunoreactive (30%–35%) cells were in a similar range. The bony fish showed a density of both ANP-immunoreactive (80%–90%) and NPY-immunoreactive (35%–40%) cells. In all species studied, immunoreactivities to ANP and NPY partially coexisted. Generally, 30%–55% of the ANP-immunoreactive cells also contained NPY-immunoreactivity. In rat, coexistence amounted to almost 100% and in quail to 95%. Except for the rat, three subpopulations of chromaffin cells seemed to occur: ANP-immunoreactive non-NPY-immunoreactive, ANP-immunoreactive+NPY-immunoreactive and NPY-immunoreactive non-ANP-immunoreactive cells. Thus, adrenal ANP and NPY share a conservative history and coexist as early as at the level of bony fish. The endocrine actions of ANP and NPY derived from medullary cells on cortical cells as found in mammals might be based on an ancestoral paracrine system. In submammalians, ANP and NPY may not only act as endocrine hormones, but also influence steroid-producing interrenal cells in a paracrine manner, and act as modulators on chromaffin cells.
Wolff, A. (2011) -
Wollenberg, K.-H. (1981) -
Wollenberg, K.-H. (2004) -
Wollesen, R. (2005) -
Wollesen, R. & Wrangel, R. (2002) -
Wollesen, R. & Wrangel, R. (2005) -
Wollmann, K. & Hüvelmeier, T. (2021) -
Wolterman, R. (2002) -
TERRARIUM-GARDEN OR GARDEN-TERRARIUM The aurhor gives a descriprion of his garden, in which several lizards and amphibians are living. A garden like rhis should preferably be oriented to rhe sourh or sourheasr. His lizards are acrive from the moment the sun reaches his garden in rhe mor- ning. The garden is surrounded by a fence of con- crere and wood, 2 m high and 1 m in rhe ground. As aresult rhe garden is somewhat shelrered and a bit warmer rhan outside the garden. At rhe upper part of rhe fence a strip of wired glass of 20 cm is arrached. Al these measures are sufficienr to keep rhe animals inside rhe garden, as long as no bran- ches or climbing-planrs form a bridge to rhe outer world. If rhe garden is suired for thc lizards and there is no surplus population there is no rendency ro escape at all. The right condirions cncompass places to bask and to hide, places to hibernare (underground, well proteered from freezing), enough food (native plants and a pile of compost attract many insecrs and other animals) and a place to lay their eggs. The animals prefer to hibernate ar rhe spot where in the spring rhe sun shines first and longest. When rhe winter is severe, part of rhis spot can be covered with dry leafs and/or plastic. The eggs are deposited in a place rhat is exposed to the sun rhe whole day, thar is slighrly moisr and in which the animals can dig easily. Only occasional- ly extra food (meal-worms) is offered, for instanee after the females have laid rheir eggs and prior to hibernation. Some precamions have to be taken to proteet the animals from predators. Birds (crows, magpies) occasionally enter the garden, but the lizards are very aware of them and will hide imme- diately. A bigger problem is cats. To prevent them from entering the garden electric fence is fitred on top of the wooden fence. This is enough to scare them off. For maintenance it is sufficient to check rhe fence for overgrowing branches. For easy access a small path along the fence is recommended. All orher parts of the garden should have easy access too. Animals that are suited for this kind ofgarden should be capable of hibernating. Suitable animals are for instanee Green Lizards (Lacerta viridislbili- neata) from rhe northern part of rheir range or Poelarcis sicula. This kind of animals will disappear in the end of September or rhe beginning of October, but nor jusr in November. There are some disadvantages in keeping animals rhis way. The choice of species is limired, eggs can be less easily found, hibernation can be more risky, predators can pose a problem, you have to sray alert for opportunities to escape and counting rhe ani- mals can be difficulr. O f course the advanrages are more considerable. Direer sunlight, so no need to give vitamin D3, availability of a variery of food (in combination wirh physical exercise), no ecroparasi- tes (probably due to rhe ants in rhe garden), more outstanding colors, combination of different spe- cies of reptiles and amphibians is possible, during vacations you only have ro ask rhe neighbors ro check for overgrowing branches, and most impor- tant rhe return of namral behavior. Ir is suggesred ro exchange experiences with other inrerested people, for which rhe aurhor can be cal- led upon or mailed.
Wolterman, R. (2018) -
Wolterstorff, W. (1924) -
Wolterstorff, W. (1939) -
Wolterstorff, W. (1940) -
Wong, S.-W. & Chen, H.-L. (2020) -
Wood, J. & Webb, A. & Neuman-Lee, L.A. & French, S.S. (2016) -
To better understand how an animal’s physiological regulation of the immune system can shift in response to a physical stressor, we investigated changes in immune function and circulating plasma testosterone in response to a cutaneous wound in male grass lizards (Takydromus viridipunctatus).
Woodfine, T. & Wilkie, M. & Gardner, R. & Edgar, P. & Moulton, N. & Riordan, P. (2017) -
Despite occurring widely across Europe and Asia, the Sand lizard Lacerta agilis is threatened in the north-western part of its range and had disappeared from much of its former habitat in England and Wales prior to concerted conservation action. A breeding population established at Marwell Zoo, UK, contributed to the re-establishment of 26 populations of Sand lizards at heathland and coastal dune sites across southern England as part of a wider multi-stakeholder response to reverse the decline of the species. Knowledge about the biology of Sand lizards was accrued during the process, which helped to refine the management of the breeding population that was maintained in a naturalistic setting within the indigenous range of the species. These successes were underpinned by coordinated collaborative actions and long-term institutional commitments against a backdrop of considerable change in the statutory framework governing Sand lizard conservation. The management of this project was not without cost or risk, including protection of valuable founder stock, incomplete knowledge about the health and disease status of Sand lizards, intrinsic constraints of limited founder representation, and the challenges of monitoring this elusive species post release.
Wöpke, K. (1930) -
World Conservation Monitoring Centre (1996) -
Worley, R.T.S. & Jurd, R.D. (1979) -
Lacerta viridis received skin auto- and allografts. In laboratory conditions the allograft rejection response was very slow (220 - 320 days) or absent. In a more natural outdoor environment allograft rejection occurred in all lizards, grafts being rejected much faster (32 - 64 days).
Wöss, G. (2010) -
Wöss, G. (2021) -
Woude, H. van der (1991) -
In the rock garden of the University Botanic Gardens in Utrecht the Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) was introduced. In I978 six animals orginating from Lake Garda in Italy, and in 1981 17 animals from the small Italian island Palestrina were setted. In 1984 the population was estimated at 30 to 35 individuals. In the spring of 1985 most of the animals were caught away by unknown people, still the present population has increased to about 20 lizards.
Wouters, B. & Nijssen, M. & Geerling, G. & Kleef, H. van & Remke, E. & Verberk, W. (2012) -
Encroachment of tall grasses and shrubs in coastal dunes has resulted in loss of vegetation heterogeneity. This is expected to have negative effects on animal diversity. To counteract encroachment and develop structural heterogeneity grazing is a widely used management practice. Here, we aim to functionally interpret changes in vegetation composition and configuration following grazing management on habitat suitability for sand lizards. Aerial photographs taken over a period of 16 years were used to quantify changes in vegetation composition. A GIS-based method was developed to calculate habitat suitability for sand lizards in a spatially explicit manner, encompassing differences in vegetation structure and patch size. From 1987 to 2003 dune vegetation shifted from small patches of moss and sand to larger patches covered by shrubs and grasses. Grazing management did not have any significant effect on the overall level of heterogeneity, measured as habitat suitability for sand lizards. However, on a more local scale highly suitable patches in 1987 were deteriorating whereas unsuitable patches became more suitable in 2003. This inversion results from a broad shift with shrubs being a limiting habitat element in 1987 to sandy patches being the limiting element in 2003. Future changes are believed to negatively impact sand lizards. The habitat suitability model has proven to be a useful tool to functionally interpret changes in coastal dune vegetation heterogeneity from an animal’s perspective. Further research should aim to include multiple species operating on different scale levels to fully capture the natural landscape dynamics.
Wrangel, R. (1995) -
Wrangel, R. (2006) -
Es wird über den Fund einer Waldeidechse (Zootoca vivipara) mit auffälliger Färbung im Kreis Stormarn (Schleswig-Holstein) berichtet. Die Dorsalseite war zeichnungsarm blaugrau gefärbt, die Ventralseite zeigte ein Graublau. Die übrigen in dieser Population gefundenen Tiere waren normal gefärbt.
Wrangel, R. & Wollesen, R. (2005) -
Wu Y.-L. & Xu X.-F. (2007) -
Influences of thermal and hydric environments on incubation eggs, embryonic use of energy and hatchling phenotypes were studied in the white-striped grass lizard Takydromus wolteri, which were collected at Langyashan Mountain, Chuzhou, Anhui, Eastern China. The eggs were incubated at three constant (27, 30, and 33℃) and one fluctuating temperatures on substrates with water potentials of 0 and –220kPa using a 4×2 factorial design. Eggs were incubated in plastic containers that were covered with a perforated plastic membrane. Eggs were 1/3-buried in the substrate, with the surface near the embryo exposed to air inside the container. We weighed containers daily and, if necessary, water were added to the vermiculite to compensate for small evaporative losses and absorbed by eggs. Eggs were weighed at 5-day intervals. Upon emergence, each hatchling was measured, weighed, examined for locomotor performance , and then killed by freezing to -15℃ for later studies. Each hatchling was separated into carcass, fat bodies, and residual yolk. The three components were dried in an oven at 65℃ to constant mass, and then weighed. We extracted non-polar lipids from dried samples in a Soxhlet apparatus for a minimum of 5.5 h using absolute ether as solvent. We determined energy density of dried samples using an adiabatic bomb calorimeter. We determined ash content in each sample using a muffle furnace at 700 1C for a minimum of 12 h and weighing the remaining ash. All viable eggs increased in mass over the course of incubation due to absorption of water, and mass gain during incubation was dependent on initial egg mass and substrate water potential. There were no differences of the incubation length, hatching success, sex ratio, and hatchlings size in the two examined substrate moisture. Incubation length decreased as incubation temperature increased. The average duration of incubation at 27, 30, and 33℃ was 32.5, 24.9, and 23.0d, respectively; the duration of incubation at fluctuating temperatures average 31.1d. Incubation temperature did not influence hatching success and sex ratio of hatchlings, but profoundly affected embryonic use of nutrients, hatchlings size and hatchlings body mass, and carcass mass. Eggs at 33℃ produced hatchlings with less developed carcass, greater amount of unutilized yolk and worse sprint speed. 27℃ and fluctuating temperature treatments produced well-developed hatchlings, and the measured phenotype traits were nearly the same. Taken together, our results showed that 27–30℃ and fluctuating temperature are suit for egg incubation in T. wolteri
Wu, H. & Li, S.L. & Liu, Z.S. & Diao, W.G. (2012) -
To clarify the morphological features and region distribution of the endocrine cells in the digestive tract of the Lacerta vivipara. The localization and morphology of endocrine cells in the digestive tract of Lacerta vivipara were studied with gastrin (Gas), Glucagon (Glu), pancreatic polypeptide (PP) and substance P-(SP) four kinds of specific antisera. Immunohistochemical ABC method (avidin-biotin compex method) was used to reveal the law and characters of endocrine cells in the digestive tract. The results showed that Gas cells located in the cardia, pylorus and small intestine, with the highest density in the duodenum, followed by the cardia. Glu cells were mainly in the pylorus and the anterior small intestine, the back of the small intestine occasionally, and the pylorus’s distribution of density was significantly higher than any other parts. PP cells were detected in the pylorus, duodenum and ileum, with the largest distribution in the duodenum. SP cells were only found in the pylorus. The four kinds of endocrine cells were mainly in the shape of round and cone-shaped, which widely lay between epithelial cells, between glandular epithelial cells and at the bottom of epithelia. The characters of the distribution of the endocrine cells might be related to the feeding habits, the food composition and the living environment.
吴昊,李淑兰,刘志涛,刘鹏,赵文阁 (2012) -
:为了探索胎生蜥蜴消化道内分泌细胞的形态与分布规律。应用胃泌素(Gas)、胰高血糖素(Glu)、 胰多肽(PP)和P-物质(SP) 4 种特异性抗血清,对胎生蜥蜴(Lacerta vivipara)消化道内分泌细胞进行了免 疫组织化学定位研究和形态学观察。用免疫组织化学ABC法(avidin-biotin compex method)以揭示其消 化道内分泌细胞的分布规律及特点。结果表明:Gas 细胞分布在贲门、幽门和小肠,其中以十二指肠处 分布密度最高,贲门次之。Glu 细胞主要分布在幽门和小肠前段,小肠后段偶见,并且幽门处的分布密 度明显高于其他部位。在幽门、十二指肠和回肠都检测到了PP 细胞,并且在十二指肠分布最多。仅在 幽门部检测到了少量的SP细胞。4 种内分泌细胞以圆形和锥体形为主,它们广泛分布于上皮细胞之间、 腺泡上皮细胞之间及上皮细胞基部。上述内分泌细胞的分布特点可能与其食性、食物组成和生活环境 有关。
Wu, L.X. & Luob, K.N. & Ding, G.H. (2022) -
We sequenced and annotated the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of Takydromus kuehnei Van Denburgh, 1909 (Squamata: Takydromus). This mitogenome was 17,224 bp long and encoded 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, one non-coding regions of an L-strand replication origin and a displacement loop region. The overall nucleotide composition was 32.8% of A, 13.8% of G, 24.8% of T, and 30.5% of C. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood method validated the taxonomic status of T. kuehnei, exhibiting the close relationship with the species from the genus Takydromus.
Wu, Q. & Miles, D.B. & Richard, M. & Rutschmann, A. & Clobert, J. (2021) -
Climate-modulated parasitism is driven by a range of factors, yet the spatial and temporal variability of this relationship has received scant attention in wild vertebrate hosts. Moreover, most prior studies overlooked the intraspecific differences across host morphotypes, which impedes a full understanding of the climate–parasitism relationship. In the common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), females exhibit three colour morphs: yellow (Y-females), orange (O-females) and mixed (mixture of yellow and orange, M-females). Zootoca vivipara i s a lso i nfested w ith a n e ctoparasite (Ophionyssus mites). We therefore used this model system to examine the intraspecific response of hosts to parasitism under climate change. We found infestation probability to differ across colour morphs at both spatial (10 sites) and temporal (20 years) scales: M-females had lower parasite infestations than Y-and O-females at lower temperatures, but became more susceptible to parasites as temperature increased. The advantage of M-females at low temperatures was counterbalanced by their higher mortality rates thereafter, which suggests a morph-dependent trade-off between resistance to parasites and host survival. Furthermore, significant interactions between colour morphs and temperature indicate that the relationship between parasite infestations and climate warming was contingent on host morphotypes. Parasite infestations increased with temperature for most morphs, but displayed morph-specific rates. Finally, infested M-females had higher reductions in survival rates than infested Y-or O-females, which implies a potential loss of intraspecific diversity within populations as parasitism and temperatures rise. Overall, we found parasitism increases with warming temperatures, but this relationship is modulated by host morphotypes and an interaction with temperature. We suggest that epidemiological models incorporate intraspecific diversity within species for better understanding the dynamics of wildlife diseases under climate warming.
Wu, Q. & Richard, M. & Rutschmann, A. & Miles, D.B. & Clobert, J. (2019) -
Background:Hosts and their parasites are under reciprocal selection, leading to coevolution. However, parasites depend not only on a host, but also on the host’s environment. In addition, a single host species is rarely infested by a single species of parasite and often supports multiple species (i.e., multi-infestation). Although the arms race between a parasite and its host has been well studied, few data are available on how environmental conditions may influence the process leading to multiple infestations. In this study, we examine whether: (1) environmental factors including altitude, temperature, vegetation cover, human disturbance, and grazing by livestock affect the prevalence of two types of ectoparasites, mites and ticks, on their host (the common lizard, Zootoca vivipara) and (2) competition is evident between mites and ticks.Results:We found the probability of mite infestation increased with altitude and vegetation cover, but decreased with human disturbance and presence of livestock. In contrast, the probability of tick infestation was inversely associated with the same factors. Individuals with low body condition and males had higher mite loads. However, this pattern was not evident for tick loads. The results from a structural equation model revealed that mites and ticks indirectly and negatively affected each other’s infestation probability through an interaction involving the environ-mental context. We detected a direct negative association between mites and ticks only when considering estimates of parasite load. This suggests that both mites and ticks could attach to the same host, but once they start to accumu-late, only one of them takes advantage.Conclusion:The environment of hosts has a strong effect on infestation probabilities and parasite loads of mites and ticks. Autecological differences between mites and ticks, as indicated by their opposing patterns along environ-mental gradients, may explain the pattern of weak contemporary interspecific competition. Our findings emphasize the importance of including environmental factors and the natural history of each parasite species in studies of host–parasite coevolution.
Wu, Y-L. & Xu, X.-F. (2006) -
The present paper deals with the recovery growth experiment in Juvenile Grass Lizards, Takydromus septentrionalis, following short periods of fasting. Lizards were collected in April and May 2005 from a population in Chuzhou (Anhui, eastern China). The captured lizards were transported to our laboratory at Chuzhnu University, where they were maintained to in each 600 mm×450 mm×300 mm (length×width×height )glass terrarium, of which the bottom was filled with moist soil, grasses and debris. Lizards were kept starved at the nature temperature for 3d prior to feeding to insure post-absorptive conditions. 39 lizards were divided into 4 experimental groups, which were deprived of food for 0 (control), 3, 6 and 9 days, respectively. The experiment lasted for 24 days for each test group. Then each group was fed with larvae of Tenebrio molitor for the rest of the experimental period. During the recovery growth, wet mass in each test group increased with the lapsed time. Food intake in S3 and S9 were higher than in C. Apparent digestive coefficient (ADC) and assimilation efficiency (AE) in each group by starvation were similar than those in C. ADC and AE in S3 were higher than those in S6 and S9. It is suggested that: (1) T. septentrionalis starvation pretreatment for 3, 6, 9 days show significantly compensatory effect in the recovery growth; (2) the compensatory growth result from significant increase in feeding intensity in the recovery growth.
吴义莲 ; 许雪峰 (2006) -
2005年4~5月,对幼体北草蜥(Takydromus septentrionalis)进行了不同短期禁食的饥饿处理后再供食的恢复生长实验。研究用蜥蝎于2005年4月捕自安徽滁州琅琊山,蜥蝎带回实验室禁食至无尿、粪排出后,随机选取状态较好的39条蜥蝎分为禁食0d (C组)、3d (S3组)、6d (S6组)、9d (S9组)4个组。禁食结束的各实验组蜥蝎用面包虫饱足饲喂至第24d。恢复生长期间,各实验组蜥蝎的体重随饲喂时间延长而增加。饥饿组消化率和同化效率与C组无显著差异,S3组的消化率显著高于S9组、同化效率显著高于S6和S9组。S3组和S9组的摄食量显著高于C组。本研究结果表明,经各短期禁食处理的幼体北草蜥在恢复生长过程中产生了明显的补偿效应;该补偿现象主要因摄食水平显著增加所致。
Wu, Y.-L. & hang, Z.-Y. (2011) -
Wu, Y.-L. & XU, X.-F. (2009) -
Wu, Y.-L. & Xu, X.-F. & Wu, L.-S. & Zhang, J.-L. (2006) -
We studied the embryonic use of material and energy during incubation and hatchling traits in the lacertid lizards Eremias argus, which were collected from a mountain population in Langyashan, Chuzhou, eastern China in April, 2005. We randomly selected one egg from eleven clutches, opened and separated them into shell and contents, the other eggs were incubated at naturally fluctuating temperature (varying from 14.0 to 37.0℃) using wet vermiculite as the incubation substrate, of which the moisture was kept at -12 kPa water potential. The incubation length of first clutches and second clutches averaged 37.5 d and 33.0 d, respectively. The wet mass of eggs increased for absorbing moisture while incubating, but no significant difference of the final wet mass was founded between first clutches and second clutches. Fluctuating temperature significantly affected Fat body dry mass, but it did not affect hatching success, sex ratio, snout-vent length, tail length, body wet mass, body dry mass, carcass dry mass and residual yolk dry mass of hatchlings. Fat body dry mass from higher fluctuating temperature was greater than did that from lower fluctuating temperature. Incubation temperature affected some norphological traits of hatchlings, with hatchlings from higher temperature having larger hindleg length and tympanum length than did those from lower temperature. Embryo from higher temperature used much calcium than did that from lower temperature. During incubation, approximately 57.5% of dry material, 27.8% of non-polar lipids and 47.4% of energy in the yolk of freshly laid egg was transferred to the hatchling. There was not significant clutch variation of embryonic use of material and energy and hatchling traits in Eremias argus.
Wulms, T. & Banowski, N. (2024) -
In early June 2024, heavy rainfall events led to the flooding of a meadow habitat in Bavaria, which is inhabited by several reptile species. The article describes observations on the reptiles’ reactions to the flooding. Apparently, the two lizard species present, Lacerta agilis and Zootoca vivipara, coped better with the temporary flooding than the slow worms (Anguis fragilis) that also occur there. The two snake species present in the habitat, Natrix natrix and Vipera berus, on the other hand, were not sighted during the flooding.
Wun, J.-H. & Norval, G. & Mao, J.-J. (2009) -
On the 1st of November, 2008, a domestic cat (Felis catus) was observed pouncing on, and consuming a Stejneger’s grass lizard (Takydromus stejnegeri). Takydromus stejnegeri is one of the few grass lizard species in Taiwan that seems to be fairly tolerant to human disturbances, and can be human-commensal. So, our observations are not only what seems to be the first report of F. catus predation on T. stejnegeri, but it also adds T. stejnegeri to the already extensive list of species that may only be able to live in human-commensal situations in the absence of F. catus.
Wyatt, K.M. (2013) -
The evolutionary dynamics of invasion and range expansion are of considerable interest to biologists. Novel environments place selection pressures on invaders, and response to such pressures may determine the success of invasive species. Theory suggests the process of range expansion may facilitate evolution and adaptation, but empirical evidence for this is limited. We investigated the extent of morphological and genetic variation among introduced subpopulations of the common wall lizard Podarcis muralis in Cincinnati, Ohio. A single introduction in 1951 of a very small number of founders gave rise to several subpopulations that show pronounced genetic structure. We found evidence of significant variation among subpopulations for several morphological traits, including hind foot length, ventral coloration, ventral mottling, cephalic scale shape, and centroid size. We confirmed previous reports of significant differences in the genetic structure of subpopulations. No relationships between genetic structure, geographic distribution, and morphological variation were identified. The morphological differences have developed over very small spatial scales (< 10 km) and over short time periods of time (< 63 years). Based on their population history, we suspect that genetic drift due to serial founder effects is the most likely cause of the observed morphological divergence, although we have not ruled out developmental causes. Studies of invasive species during range expansion may reveal evidence of rapid evolutionary processes that in turn could facilitate adaptation to a novel environment. Future research should seek to identify the factors driving variation among the Greater Cincinnati subpopulations of Podarcis muralis.
Wyk, J.H. van (1984) -
Xang, W. & Feiner, N. & Salvi, D. & Laakonen, H. & Jablonski, D. & Pinho, C. & Carretero, M.A. & Sacchi, R. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Scali, S. & Plavos, K. & Paflis, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Jandzik, D. & Schulte, U. & Aubret, F. & Badiane, A. & Perez i de Lanuza, G. & Abalos, J. & While, G.M. & Uller, T. (2021) -
The Mediterranean Basin has experienced extensive change in geology and climate over the past six million years. Yet, the relative importance of key geological events for the distribution and genetic structure of the Mediterranean fauna remains poorly understood. Here, we use population genomic and phylogenomic analyses to establish the evolutionary history and genetic structure of common wall lizards (Podarcismuralis). This species is particularly informative because, in contrast to other Mediterranean lizards, itis widespread across the Iberian, Italian, and Balkan peninsulas, andin extra-Mediterranean regions. We found strong support for six major lineages within P. muralis, which were largely discordant with the phylogenetic relationship ofmitochondrial DNA. The most recent common ancestor of extant P. muraliswas likely distributed in the Italian Peninsula, and experienced an “Out-of-Italy” expansion followingthe Messinian salinity crisis (~5 Mya), resulting inthe differentiation into theextant lineages on the Iberian, Italian and Balkan peninsulas. Introgression analysis revealed that both inter-and intraspecific gene flow have been pervasive throughout the evolutionary history of P. muralis. For example, the Southern Italy lineagehas a hybrid origin, formed through admixture betweentheCentral Italylineage and anancientlineagethatwas the sister to allotherP. muralis. More recent genetic differentiation isassociated with the onset of the Quaternary glaciations, which influenced population dynamics and genetic diversity of contemporary lineages. These results demonstrate the pervasive role of Mediterranean geology and climate for the evolutionary history and population genetic structure of extant species.
Xavier, F. (1982) -
In vitro incubations of ovarian tissue from Lacerta vivipara with labeled pregnenolone indicated that progesterone biosynthesis and metabolism occurs throughout the reproductive cycle. Progesterone, the main metabolite synthetized during gestation, is further metabolized to 5 α/β-reduced compounds during the remaining cycle. Plasma progesterone concentrations are low during hibernation, increase during the vitellogenic phase, peak during the luteal phase, remain elevated until parturition, and fall abruptly thereafter to basal levels. The large amount of plasma transcortin-type protein, which has a high affinity for progesterone and saturable binding sites, might be commensurate with the elevated levels of plasma progesterone. Correlated variations of plasma steroid binding protein and progesterone concentrations were analyzed during the annual cycle.
Xavier, F. (1983) -
Xia, Y.G. & Zhao, W.G. & Liu, P. (2009) -
The habitat character of Lacerta vivipara was studied in the mountain areas of Sunwu Country, Heilongjiang Province (China) in May- June 2005 and May 2006 using line-transect method. Fifteen environmental factors were analysed. The most suitable habitat of L. vivipara was the forests dominated by Quercus mongolica-Betula davurica at the middle and lower positions in the gentle slope with half-shaded and half-exposed to light conditions in spring. L. vivipara was usually found in habitats heavily covered by fallen leaves with moderate humidity and sunshine, soft soil, less natural enemies and human disturbance. In spring, L. vivipara generally selects habitat that can provide rich food resources, good cover and sufficient heat. The habitat selection by L. vivipara was its adaptation strategy to the environment at high latitude.
夏玉国,赵文阁,刘鹏 (2009) -
分别于2005年5~7月和2006年5月在黑龙江省孙吴县境内方圆15km的范围内采用样线法对胎生蜥蜴(Lacerta vivipara)春季的栖息生境进行了初步研究。通过对胎生蜥蜴栖息生境中的15个生境因子进行的频次百分比分析可以看出,在小兴安岭北部胎生蜥蜴春季的最适栖息生境是处于山体半阴半阳坡的中、下坡位,且坡度平缓的蒙古栎(Quercus mongolica)-黑桦(Betula davurica)林中,林间落叶层较厚,具有适中的湿度和光照强度,且土质疏松,人为和天敌的干扰小。结果表明,胎生蜥蜴在春季一般选择具有良好的食物与隐蔽条件,以及能够提供充足热量的栖息生境,这是该物种对高纬度低温环境的一种适应.
Xian, J. & Wenhui, Z. & Guobiao, H. & Huiqing, G. (1993) -
Xiang, J. & Zhou, W. & Zhang, X. & Gu, H. (1998) -
Sexual dimorphism and reproduction in a population of Takydromus septentrionalis on Xiushan Island of Zhoushan Islands group were investigated during the breeding seasons of 1989 – 1992. Most males and females, approximately two years after hatchling, reached sexual maturity at 54 and 57 mm SVL, respectively. Adult male and female T. septentrionalis were similar in SVL but quite different in the head size characteristics, males having larger heads than females of similar SVL except near the size of sexual maturity. Mating success in males was apparently not related to increased SVL. Males can copulate with females in several hours before or after oviposition. The duration of intromission averaged 227 min. Females can lay 1 – 3 clutches with 2 – 6 eggs each per season. Clutch size or clutch mass was significantly correlated with SVL and was not correlated with the clutch size. Relative clutch weight (RCW) averaged 0.149. Oviposition frequency averaged 16.7 days.
Xie, Y. & Chang, J. & Pan, Y. & Hao, W. & Li, J. (2021) -
Prothioconazole (PTC) is a high effective systemic fungicide, and one of its major metabolites is prothioconazole-desthio (PTC-d). Because of its wildly use in the farmland of China, the local eco-toxicological effects of PTC as well as PTC-d are needed to be concerned. This study investigated hepatoxicity of Chinese lizards (Eremias argus), a local non-target organism, after single dose oral treated (100 mg kg−1 BW) through pathological, enzyme activity and gene expression analysis. PTC treatment caused ballooning and PTC-d treatment led to macrovesicular steatosis of hepatocyte. The elevation of serum indexes, including the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), further confirmed the hepatic injury. PTC and PTC-d treatments altered oxidative status reflected by the inhibition of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, meanwhile, the stimulation of catalase (CAT) activity, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. The mRNA expression changes of apoptosis-related factors and cytokines genes, including Bax, Bcl-2, TNF-α, NF-κB, Caspase-3 and Nrf2, deeply uncovered the potential mechanism of hepatotoxicity caused by PTC and PTC-d. In brief, the results indicated that both of these two compounds altered oxidative status, then were likely to trigger caspase-3 by affecting the ratio of pro- and anti-apoptotic factors which belong to intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Specifically, more serious impacts were induced by PTC-d than its parent compound. This study is the first to provide specific insight into potential hepatotoxicity resulted from PTC and PTC-d in male Chinese lizards.
Xie, Y. & Jiang, H. & Chang, J. & Wang, Y. & Li, J. & Wang, H. (2019) -
Prothioconazole (PTC) is a widely used triazole fungicide with low toxicity, and its desulfurization metabolite, prothioconazole-desthio (PTC-d), is reported to have higher reproductive toxicity to mammals. However, little is known about the reproductive toxicity, much less endocrine disrupting effect, of these two chemicals on reptiles. In this study, we investigated the effects of single dose of PTC/PTC-d (100 mg kg−1 body weight) exposure on the pathomorphism of testes and epididymides, serum sex steroid hormones (testosterone and 17β-estradiol) and transcription of steroidogenic-related genes (STARD, cyp11A, cyp17, cyp19A, 17β-HSD, 3β-HSD, AR and ER-α) in gonads of male lizards (Eremias argus). Although structural disorder existed in PTC-d exposure group, severe gonadal disruption, especially suppression of spermatogenesis was only observed in testis after PTC treatment, which consequently led to the lack of spermatozoa in epididymal ducts. Consistent with this result, T/E2 value in PTC exposure was elevated to a significant higher level compared with control and continually increased over time, while T/E2 value in the PTC-d exposure group slightly increased only at 12 h. These results demonstrated a more serious disruption of PTC on male lizard gonads than PTC-d. In addition, the expression of cyp17 gene was inhibited at 6 h, however, was induced at 12 h, and exhibited negative correlations with STARD, cyp11A and 3β-HSD after PTC exposure at each timepoint. In PTC-d group, the expression of STARD and 3β-HSD were significantly down-regulated, in contrast, cyp11A and cyp17 were up-regulated, and each gene showed consistent changes over time. For 17β-HSD, no significance was observed in both treated groups. This study was the first to compare the gonadal disruption of PTC and PTC-d in male lizards and elucidated that these two chemicals influenced the physiological function of male gonads through differential transcriptional modulation.
Xie, Y. & Li, L.Y.Z. & Hao, W. & Chang, J. & Xu, P. & Guo, B. & Li, J. & Wang, H. (2019) -
Prothioconazole (PTC) is a widely used triazolinthione fungicide with low toxicity and short residual period. However, its desulfurization metabolite, prothioconazole-desthio (PTC-d), is more persistent and has higher toxicity in terrestrial animals. In this study, the toxicokinetics (TK) and tissue distribution of PTC and PTC-d in Chinese lizards (Eremias argus) were measured following single oral dose (100 mg kg−1 body weight) treatments. TK parameters indicated that PTC was more rapidly absorbed than PTC-d, as indicated by its shorter time to reach peak concentrations in most tissues. Furthermore, the relative bioavailability of PTC in lizards was lower than that of PTC-d. Compared with PTC, PTC-d preferentially accumulated in lizards, as reflected by longer half-life of PTC-d. During the distribution process, PTC-d generated in vivo was transported from other tissues and was deposited in the skin and tail, where PTC-d may be excreted by exuviation or tail detachment. Preferential enrichment of S-enantiomer of both PTC and PTC-d were observed in all tissues. Hepatic cytochrome P450 gene expression measurement revealed that cyp1a5 and cyp3a28 exhibited the strongest responses in both treatment groups. In addition, the opposite responses of cyp2k4 in different treatment groups may indicate that this enzyme caused differences in the rates of metabolism of the two chemicals. This study compared the TK profile of PTC and its desulfurization metabolite PTC-d in lizards and demonstrated that the desulfurization of PTC could increase its ecological risk due to the higher bioavailability and persistence of PTC-d.
Xin, Y. & Tang, X. & Yue, F. & Zhang, D. & Yan, X. & Wang, C. & Chen, Q. (2012) -
The Sox (SRY-related high-mobility-group box) family of genes shares a conserved HMG box and is involved in a diverse range of developmental processes and sex determination in vertebrates. Twenty Sox genes are present in the genomes of humans and mice, but far less is known about the Sox gene family in reptiles. Using two pairs of highly degenerate primers designed from a multiple alignment of Sox amino acid sequences in several species, different positive clones were obtained from male and female Eremias multiocellata, a viviparous lizard which is subject to TSD (temperature-dependent sex determination). These clones were sequenced and identified. They are members of the SoxB (Sox2, Sox14), SoxC (Sox11, Sox12) and SoxE (Sox9a, Sox9b, Sox10) groups. No sex-specific differences were observed. Based on the amino acid sequence similarities, the phylogenetic analysis was carried out and these genes clustered with their orthologues. In addition, we found the gene duplication in E. multiocellata, it may be a mechanism to produce new functional genes.
Xu, D.-D. & Li, F.-M. & Ye, Z.-Q. & Li, Y.-M. & Yuan, Z.S. (2007) -
This paper deals with habits and characteristics of ecology of Takydromus sexlineatus in the Beiling Mountain in Zhaoqing.The results are as follows(in aresage):The adult body length is 245.104 mm.The tail is 3.9 times as long as the body.The regenerate speed of severed tail is strong.Hibetnation is from December to next February,and below 14℃ they fall asleep completely,while above 20℃ they awake in succession.The most active period is from March to May.Sexual mature females lay multiple clutches of pliable-shelled eggs with clutch sizes of 2~4,and weight of 0.1773 g/egg,long diameter of 8.855 mm and short diameter of 6.157 mm.The incubation needs about 40 days,and the eggs will be hatched in May.
Xu, J. (1996) -
Xu, X. & Wu, Y. (2002) -
An experiment on compensatory growth in lacertid lizards from a population in Suzhou, Anhui, eastern China, after different periods of starvation, was conducted from May to June and September to October 2001. All lizards used in this study were adult males. The experiment lasted for 24 days for each test group. Group C, S3, S6, S9 were deprived of food for 0 (control), 3, 6 and 9 days, respectively. Then each group was fed for the rest of the experimental period. There were significant differences in food intake and mass change among the experimental groups during the course of weight recovery. S9 had higher food intake and mass change than S3 and group C. There were no obvious differences in the apparent digestive coefficient (ADC) or assimilation efficiency (AE) among experimental groups. The results indicate that there was a compensatory effect in weight recovery following starvation, and that the compensatory effect mainly resulted from significant increase in feeding intensity during weight recovery.
Xu, X.-F. & Ji, X. (2006) -
We used Eremias brenchleyi as a model animal to examine differences in thermal tolerance, selected body temperature, and the thermal dependence of food assimilation and locomotor performance between juvenile and adult lizards. Adults selected higher body temperatures (33.5 vs. 31.7 °C) and were able to tolerate a wider range of body temperatures (3.4–43.6 vs. 5.1–40.8 °C) than juveniles. Within the body temperature range of 26–38 °C, adults overall ate more than juveniles, and food passage rate was faster in adults than juveniles. Apparent digestive coefficient (ADC) and assimilation efficiency (AE) varied among temperature treatments but no clear temperature associated patterns could be discerned for these two variables. At each test temperature ADC and AE were both higher in adults than in juveniles. Sprint speed increased with increase in body temperature at lower body temperatures, but decreased at higher body temperatures. At each test temperature adults ran faster than did juveniles, and the range of body temperatures where lizards maintained 90% of maximum speed differed between adults (27–34 °C) and juveniles (29–37 °C). Optimal temperatures and thermal sensitivities differed between food assimilation and sprint speed. Our results not only show strong patterns of ontogenetic variation in thermal tolerance, selected body temperature and thermal dependence of food assimilation and locomotor performance in E. brenchleyi, but also add support for the multiple optima hypothesis for the thermal dependence of behavioral and physiological variables in reptiles. Keywords: Lacertidae; Eremias brenchleyi; Selected body temperature; Thermal tolerance; Food assimilation; Sprint speed.
Xu, X.-F. & Wu, Y.-L. (2003) -
Lacertid lizards,Eremias brenchleyi were captured from field,and reared artificially.Laid eggs were incubated at 30 ℃ and -12 kPa (humidity).Whole eggs,eggshells,yolks,and embryos were weighed,and energy of certain components was determined at a series of time points.Data on the development of embryos and the transition of material and energy in eggs incubation were processed,resulting in:1)The duration of incubation averaged 35 days,and the egg in wet mass increased for absorbing moisture while incubating.2)The embryos employed about 10%,30% and 20% of the total egg energy in the periods of 0-20,20-30,and 30-35 days of incubation,respectively.3)The embryos grew slowly during the first 20 days,then grew rapidly.4)Approximately 63.4% dry material,32.7% non-polar lipids and 59.6% energy in the contents of fresh eggs were transferred to the hatchlings.5)Inorganic material in both yolk and eggshell was used by the embryos in development.The transition ratios of dry material and non-polar lipids as main energy-substance,and the proportion of residual yolk in hatchlings are lower than those reported for snakes.The lower ratios maybe related to the longer slow-phase of embryonic development in this species.
许雪峰 吴义莲 (2003) -
野生成年山地麻蜥捕获后在人工环境中产卵,卵在30℃、-12 kPa的条件下孵化;在不同时段称重(整体、卵壳、卵黄、胚胎等)并测定一些成分的能量。胚胎发育以及卵物质和能量转化数据处理结果如下:①卵孵化期为35.0 d,孵化时能从外界吸收水分使卵重增加;②在卵孵化0-20、20-30和30-35 d,胚胎分别利用新生卵能量的10%、30%和20%;③胚胎在孵化的20 d内生长缓慢,此后生长迅速;④卵孵化过程中,干重、非极性脂肪和能量的转化率分别为67.3%、32.7%和59.6%;⑤胚胎发育所需的无机物来自卵黄和卵壳。该种卵内干物质和非极性脂肪(作为主要能量物质)的转化率、幼体内剩余卵黄比例均较有鳞类低;这种转化率差异可能与山地麻蜥胚胎发育缓慢期较长有关。
Annual variation of water content and energy value of the major energ y reserves were studied in adult lizard, Eremias brenchleyi , from a populati on in Suzhou, Anhui, eastern China. Monthly samples of the adult lizards were c olle cted during September to November 2001 and March to August 2002. The lizards wer e brought to our laboratory in Chuzhou Normal College. The lizards were killed b y freezing to -15℃, and then separated into carcasses (including tails), liver s and abdominal fat bodies. The three components were oven dried to constant mas s at 65℃, weighed and preserved frozen for later determination of composition. We extracted non polar lipids from dried samples (except abdominal fat bodies) in a Soxhlet apparatus for a minimum of 5 5 h using absolute ether as solvent. Th e amount of lipids in a simple was determined by subtracting the lipid free dry mass from total sample dry mass. We determined energy value of dried samples inc luding carcasses, livers, abdominal fat bodies and non polar lipids using an ad i abatic bomb calorimeter. Males and females differed in water contents of carcass and liver. Water contents of carcass and liver were all higher in males than in females. There were significant monthly changes in water contents and energy va lues of carcass (including lean carcass) and liver in both males and females. Si gnificant monthly changes in energy value s of abdominal fat bodies were also found in both sexes. Energy values of carcas s (including lean carcass) and liver were higher in males than in females, but t hose of liver lower in males than in females. Our results indicated that annual variations in the major energy reserves were correlated with the reproduction an d winter hibernation. Proper energy storage in breeding season of male would be help for to strengthen the ability of quick movement, while, that of female woul d be increase reproductive output and improve survival and fitness.
Xu, X.-F. & Wu, Y.-L. & Ou, Y.-Y. (2002) -
The variation of water and energy contents in the Major Energy Reserves were studied in adult grass lizards (Takydromus septentrionalis) from March to September,2000,which collected month by month from Langyashan Mountain,Chuzhou,Anhui,Eastern China.Males and females differed in water contents of tail-free carcass and liver.There were significant monthly changes in water contents and energy contents of tail-free carcass,tail and liver in both males and females.Significant monthly changes in energy contents of fat bodies were also found in both sexes.Energy contents of tail-free carcass (including lean tail-free carcass),tail (including lean tail) were all higher in males than in females,but those of liver lower in males than in females.The results indicated that seasonal variation in the major energy reserves were correlated with the reproduction and winter hibernation.
许雪峰 ,吴义莲 ,欧永跃 (2002) -
研究丁安徽滁州北草蜥 (Takydromus septentrionalis)成体在 2000年 3~9月份主要贮能部位水分含量 和能值 的变化 :1 躯干 、肝脏水分含量 两性差异显著 .尾部 水分 含量两性差异不显 著;躯干 、尾 、肝脏水分含 量月间差异 显著。2雄性成体的躯 干、脱脂躯干 、尾和脱脂尾能值显著高于雌性 成体 ,肝 脏能值 显著低于雌性 成体 :躯干 、尾 、肝脏 、腹脂肪体能 值月问差异显著。结 果分析表明 ,北 草蜥躯 干、尾 、肝脏及腹脂肪体能值 的季节 变化与繁殖和冬 眠密切相关。
Xu, X.-F. & Wu, Y.-L. & Ou, Y.-Y. & Wu, L.-S. (2008) -
We incubated Takydromus wolteri eggs at 30℃ using wet vermiculite as the incubation substrate of which the moisture was kept at -12kPa, we paid particular attention to the embryonic growth and embryonic use of material and energy during incubation. Eggs were weighed at 5-day intervals to test for temporal changes in egg mass. From the tenth, fifteenth, twentieth day of incubation, we randomly selected 15,15,12 eggs from different clutches respectively, opened and separated them into shell, embryo and yolk. The three egg components were oven dried to constant mass at 65℃, weighed and preserved frozen for later determination of composition. Upon emergence, size and mass were measured on each hatchling. Hatchlings (n= 29) were then killed by freezing to -15℃ for later study. Upon thawing, we separated each hatchling into weighed and preserved frozen for later determination of composition. We extracted non-polar lipids from dried carcass, residual yolk and fat bodies. The three hatchling components were oven dried to constant mass at 65℃,samples in a Soxhlet apparatus for a minimum of 5.5 h using absolute ether as solvent. The amount of lipids in a sample was determined by subtracting the lipid-free dry mass from the total sample dry mass. The total lipid in each hatchling was calculated as the sum of the lipids in its carcass, residual yolk and fat bodies. We determined energy content of dried samples using an adiabatic bomb calorimeter and ash content in each sample using a muffle furnace at 700℃ for a minimum of 8 h and then weighing the remaining ash. The duration of incubation averaged 24.7 days in this study. Eggs increased in wet mass during incubation due to the absorption of water from the substrate. At the stage of 0-15, 15-20, 20-24.7 days of incubation, the developing embryos mobilized approximately 11%, 14% and 75% of the total egg energy in the yolk of the freshly laid egg, respectively. Embryos grew slowly during the first 20 days, the maximal embryonic growth occurred at the stage of 20-24.7 days of incubation. During incubation, approximately 50.3%dry material, 24.9%non-polar lipids and 51.9%energy in egg contents of the freshly laid egg were transferred to the hatchling. Of all energy in the newly emerged hatchling, 95.2%was in the carcass, 2.2%in fat bodies and 2.6 %in the residual yolk. Embryos used both yolk and eggshell as the sources of inorganic material for development. Our data show that the lower conversion efficiencies of energy and material from egg to hatchling in T. wolteri can be mainly attributed to their greater energetic costs of embryonic development and lower residual yolk sizes.
许雪峰, 吴义莲, 欧永跃, 吴霖生 (2008) -
研究白条草蜥卵在温、湿度分别为30℃、-12kPa的条件下,孵化过程中胚胎生长以及对物质和能量的动用。孵化过程中,每隔5d测定卵重。孵化第10、15、20天,分别解剖来自不同窝的卵15、15、12枚,分离为胚胎、卵黄和卵壳。初生幼体测量、称重后冰冻处死,随后解剖分离为躯干、剩余卵黄和腹脂肪体。所有材料65℃恒温干燥,用索氏脂肪提取仪测定脂肪含量,氧弹式热量计测定能量含量,马福炉测定无机物含量。白条草蜥卵的平均孵化期为24.7d。卵孵化时从基质中吸水导致重量增加。卵孵化0~15d、15~20d、20~24.7d,胚胎分别利用新生卵能量的11%、14%和75%。0~20d,胚胎生长缓慢;20d后生长迅速。卵孵化过程中,干重、非极性脂肪和能量的转化率分别为50.3%、24.9%和51.9%。初生幼体的能量组分为:躯干952%,脂肪2.2%,剩余卵黄2.6%。胚胎发育所需要的无机物来自卵黄和卵壳。结果显示,白条草蜥从卵到孵出幼体物质和能量较低的转化率主要与较高胚胎发育投资和较小的剩余卵黄有关。
Xu, X.-F. & Wu, Y.-L. & Zhang, J.-L. (2005) -
Influence of thermal and hydric environments on incubation eggs,embryonic use of energy and hatchling traits were studied in the lacertid lizards,Eremias brenchleyi,which were collected in Qianshan,Suzhou,Anhui,Eastern China.The eggs were incubated at temperatures of 27,30,and 33 ℃ on substrates with water potentials of 0 and -220 kPa using a 3×2 factorial design. Laid eggs were collected in one hour.Eggs were weighed at five-days intervals till hatchlings from eggs incubated.Each hatchling was thawed and separated into carcass,residual yolks,and fat bodies after measured and weighed.The components were preserved frozen for later determination of composition.All viable eggs increased in mass throughout the course of incubation due to absorption of water,and both thermal and hydric environments affected water exchanges between eggs and their surroundings.Final eggs incubated in wetter substrates (0 kPa) gained more mass than did eggs in drier substrates (-220 kPa) but at the same temperature;final eggs incubated at 27 and 30 ℃ gained more mass than did eggs at 33 ℃ but at the same substrate water potential.Incubation temperature significantly affected duration of incubation,and which decreased as incubation temperature increased,but substrate moisture and its interaction with temperature did not.Both incubation and substrate moisture did not affected hatching success.Substrate moisture and its interaction with temperature were unaffected almost all hatchling traits examined except residual yolk.However,Incubation temperature profoundly affected embryonic use of nutrients and size,mass,and residual yolk mass of hatchlings.33 ℃ was not a suitable incubation temperature for E.brenchleyi eggs,because eggs incubated at 33 ℃ produced smaller hatchlings that contained larger residual yolks than did eggs incubated at 27 ℃ and 30 ℃.Given that eggs incubated at 27 ℃ and 30 ℃ both produced well-developed hatchlings of which all measured variables were nearly the same,we conclude that 30 ℃ is better than 27 ℃ for incubation of E.brenchleyi eggs because of the shortened duration of incubation at 30 ℃.
许雪峰 吴义莲 张建龙 (2005) -
用6种温湿度条件孵化安徽宿州乾山山地麻蜥(Eremias brenchleyi)卵,观测孵化卵质量变化、胚胎利用卵内物质和能量以及孵出幼体特征。卵在产出后1 h内收集,共设置3×2种温湿度处理(温度分别为27、30和33 ℃;湿度分别为-220、0 kPa)。每隔5 d称卵重,直至幼体孵出。幼体经测量、称重后,解剖、分离为躯干、剩余卵黄和脂肪体三组分,用于成分测试。卵从环境中吸水导致质量增加,孵化温、湿度及其相互作用显著影响孵化卵的质量变化:同一温度下,高湿度(0 kPa)孵化卵的终末质量大于低湿度(-220 kPa)孵化卵;同一湿度下,低温(27和30 ℃)孵化卵的终末质量大于高温(33 ℃)孵化卵。温度显著影响孵化期,随温度的升高孵化期缩短;湿度及其与温度的相互作用对孵化期无显著影响。孵化温湿度对孵化成功率无显著影响。温度显著影响胚胎对卵内物质的动用、幼体大小、质量以及剩余卵黄质量;除剩余卵黄外,湿度及其与温度的相互作用不影响山地麻蜥孵出幼体几乎所有的被检测特征。33 ℃孵出幼体的大小和质量均显著小于27和30 ℃,并特征性地具有较大的剩余卵黄。因此,33 ℃不适宜孵化山地麻蜥卵。27 ℃和30 ℃中孵出幼体躯干发育良好,各项被测定的特征指标极其相似。
Xu, X.-X. & Sun, Q.-L. & Liu, P. Zhao, W.-G. (2017) -
We used Heilongjiang grass lizards (Takydromus amurensis), which were collected from Changbai Mountain, as model animals. These lizards were housed to breed in the laboratory from April to June, 2014. In early October, adult and juvenile lizards were placed in the constant temperature incubator for measurement of body temperature. The effects of different temperature conditions (constant temperature and rapid warming) on body temperature and thermoregulation ability of T. amurensis were studied. The measuring time had significant impacts on the body tem⁃ perature of T. amurensis from 11 to 39 °C , and the lowest body temperature appeared at 07:00 a. m. The body temperature was significantly higher in juveniles than in adults from 11 to 19 °C. There was no difference in the body temperature between juveniles and adults at 21 °C ; the body temperature was significantly lower in juveniles than in adults from 23 to 39 °C . The body temper⁃ ature of T. amurensis was linearly positively correlated with ambient temperature. The linear re⁃ gression equations were as follows: y = 0.72366x+7.1778 for the adults, and y = 0.6508x+8.8039 for the juveniles, whose intersection point temperatures with isothermal line (y=x) were 25.97 and 25.21 °C, respectively. The body temperature of T. amurensis increased in a short time with the ambient temperature increased rapidly from 10 to 30 °C , but the heating rate gradually decreased. We concluded that the ambient temperature had a significant impact on body temperature of T. amurensis, and the thermoregulation ability of different aged lizards was different. Juvenile lizards had stronger thermoregulation ability, thus they could keep their body temperature stable more easily than adults.
Xu, X.F. & Chen, X.J. & Ji, X. (2001) -
Selected body temperature (Tsel),critical thermal maximum (Tcmax),critical thermal minimum (Tcmin),and influence of temperature on food assimilation and locomotor performance were studied in adult male lacertid lizards,Eremias brenchleyi,from a population in Suzhou,Anhui,eastern China.Tsel,Tcmax and Tcmin were 33.7,43.6 and 3.3℃,respectively.Temperature significantly affected food passage time,food intake,apparent digestive coefficient (ADC),assimilation efficiency (AE) and locomotor performance of lizards.The food passage time decreased with increase in temperature from 26 to 30℃ and increased at higher temperatures.Food intake,ADC and AE were lower at 26 and 28℃ than at higher temperatures.The sprint speed increased with increase in body temperature from 19 to 34℃,and then decreased dramatically at higher temperatures.The length of continuous locomotion was apparently greater at 31 and 34℃ than at other lower or higher temperatures,and decreased dramatically at the body temperatures higher than 36℃.The average number of stops in the racetrack was significantly greater in lizards with body temperatures higher than 34℃ than in those with body temperatures from 19 to 34℃.Our results suggest that the optimal body temperatures for locomotion are 31-34℃,and the body temperature has pervasive effects on food assimilation and locomotion performance in lizards Eremias brenchleyi.
许雪峰 睬雪君 计 翔 (2001) -
摘要 研究了捕自安徽宿州的成年雄性山地麻蜥(Eremias brenchleyi)选择体温、热耐受性、温度对食物同化和运动表现的影响。结果显示:①选择体温、临界高温和临界低温的平均值分别为.7、43.6和3.3℃。②环境温度在26—38℃时,对山地麻蜥食物通过时间、摄食量、表观消化系数(ADC)、同化效率(AE)和运动表现有显著的影响;在26—30℃时食物通过时间随温度升高而缩短,超过30℃则随温度升高而延长;26和28℃时,摄食量、ADC和AE均小于更高温度的对应值。体温在19—34℃,蜥蜴的疾跑速随体温上升而加快,31和34℃时最快,超过34℃后随体温升高而减慢;31和34℃时的持续运动距离最长,超过36℃后随体温升高而显著缩短,但体温1936℃蜥蜴的持续运动距离无显著差异;19—34℃蜥蜴的跑道顿次数较少,无显著差异,超过34℃后显著增加。
Xu, X.F. & Ji, X. (2000) -
Xu, X.F. & Ji, X. (2003) -
Studies on the ontogenetic shifts in sexual dimorphism in head size (head length and width) and food habits of Eremias brenchleyi were studied. The results showed that adult E. brenchleyi had no obvious sexual dimorphism in body size (SVL). Both sexes differed in head size since hatching, with males having larger heads than females. This sexual dimorphism was much more pronounced between adults than between juveniles (including hatchlings), largely because the increase velocity of head size of males with SVL was faster than that of females. Hatchlings had relatively larger heads to SVL than juveniles and adults, presumably because E. brenchleyi embryos allocated relatively more resources for early survival and growth of hatchlings. Head size of both sexes overall showed an allometric growth pattern with SVL increase ontogeny.Lizards of different sizes and sexes differed, in certain degrees,in food niche breadth and niche overlap. However, no direct evidence showed a noticeable contribution of the divergence in head size to the segregation of food niche between males and females, thereby mitigating the competition between both sexes.
Xu, X.F. & Ji. X. (2006) -
We used Eremias brenchleyi as a model animal to examine differences in thermal tolerance, selected body temperature, and the thermal dependence of food assimilation and locomotor performance between juvenile and adult lizards. Adults selected higher body temperatures (33.5 vs. 31.7 degrees C) and were able to tolerate a wider range of body temperatures (3.4-43.6 vs. 5.1-40.8 degrees C) than juveniles. Within the body temperature range of 26-38 degrees C, adults overall ate more than juveniles, and food passage rate was faster in adults than juveniles. Apparent digestive coefficient (ADC) and assimilation efficiency (AE) varied among temperature treatments but no clear temperature associated patterns could be discerned for these two variables. At each test temperature ADC and AE were both higher in adults than in juveniles. Sprint speed increased with increase in body temperature at lower body temperatures, but decreased at higher body temperatures. At each test temperature adults ran faster than did juveniles, and the range of body temperatures where lizards maintained 90% of maximum speed differed between adults (27-34 degrees C) and juveniles (29-37 degrees C). Optimal temperatures and thermal sensitivities differed between food assimilation and sprint speed. Our results not only show strong patterns of ontogenetic variation in thermal tolerance, selected body temperature and thermal dependence of food assimilation and locomotor performance in E. brenchleyi, but also add support for the multiple optima hypothesis for the thermal dependence of behavioral and physiological variables in reptiles.
Yablokov, A.V. (1976) -
Collective. the monograph is devoted to describing various aspects of the biology of the most common species of reptiles of the fauna of the USSR - the sand lizard: distribution features, systematics, morphology, lifestyle features, the place of the species in biogeocenoses and food chains, abundance, and practical value. Many issues related to the study of reptiles and vertebrates are raised.
Яблоков, А.В. (1976) -
Коллективная. монография посвящена описанию различных сторон биологии самого распространенного вида рептилий фауны СССР — прыткой ящерицы: особенностям распространения, систематике, морфологии, особенностям образа жизни, месту вида в биогеоценозах и цепях питания, численности, практическому значению. Затрагиваются многие вопросы, связанные с исследованием рептилий и позвоночных животных.
Yablokov, A.V. & Baranov, A.S. (1971) -
Яблоков, А.В. & Баранов, А.С. (1971) -
Yablokov, A.V. & Baranov, A.S. & Rozanov, A.S. (1980) -
Yablokov, A.V. & Baranov, A.S. & Rozanov, A.S. (1981) -
Yadollahvandmiandoab, R. & Savasari, R.B. & Bashirichelkasari, N. & Mesquita, D.O. (2022) -
Yakin, B.Y. & Cicek, K. & Afsar, M. & Tok, C.V. (2019) -
Here, we present a case of nocturnal activity of a diurnal Pelasgian Rock Lizard,Anatololacerta pelasgiana (Mertens, 1959) in Çığlıkara Nature Reserve. During our fieldwork in August 2016, we detected the nocturnal behavior individuals on the walls of the fire tower/cabin in the cedar forest. Besides, there is this is the first case of a nocturnal behavior without any artificial light.
Yakin, B.Y. & Gürkan, M. & Hayretdağ, S. & Tok, C.V. (2012) -
In this study, age determination was done by using the skeletochronology method on Akşehir, Konya (Turkey), 14 (5♂♂; 9♀♀) Parvilacerta parva specimens. Cross-sections of femurs were examined in total 14 individuals, the lowest number of LAGs was seen in one female and one male individuals as 4, the highest number of LAGs were seen in two female individuals as 8. Average SVL was found 50.8 mm (SD=2.27) in male individuals, and 53.1 mm (SD = 3.27) in females. For all the samples, the age-length equation was calculated as SVL (mm) = 37.82 + (2.47 * age). As a result of Pearson correlation analysis, a significant positive correlation (r=0.93, P˂0.01) between age and SVL. Pileus length does not increase constantly with age (r=0.007, P=0.98), while pileus width increases normally together with age (r=0.212, P=0.46).
Yakin, B.Y. & Tok, C.V. (2015) -
In this study, age estimation using skeletochronology was done in 43 individuals 20 (6 ♂♂, 29 ♀♀, 8 juv.) Anatololacerta anatolica specimens living in the vicinity of 21 Çanakkale. When the cross sections taken from phalanges are examined, median age for 22 Çanakkale population is counted as 4. The maximum age was calculated as 10 year for 23 female individuals, and the snout-vent length (SVL) of female individuals was 24 measured 74.18 mm. The mean SVL was 57.39 (SD= 4.6) mm for males and 63.62 25 (SD= 8.62) mm for females. The age of sexual maturity was determined as 3 years for 26 both sexes of this species. As a result of correlation analysis, a strong correlation was 27 found between both males (r: 0.845) and females (r: 0.886) in terms of age and SVL. 28 These specimens were also examined for morphological properties and pholidosis 29 characters.
Yakovleva, I.D. (1964) -
Yalçinkaya, D. & Göçmen, B. (2012) -
A new subspecies the Acanthodactylus schreiberi, A. s. ataturi n. ssp., is being described from Anatolia which differs from the nominate subspecies A. s. schreiberi Boulenger, 1879 of Cyprus island and A. s. syriacus Böttger, 1878 from Lebanon and Israel. Compared to the later two populations, A. s. ataturi n. spp. is different in having ‘half-domes’ (protuberant) above the eyes (71.4%), one or two additional small plates between the prefrontals in the majority of examined specimens (73.6%). It is also differs in having no distinctly keeled dorsal and temporal scales, and also the presence of small-sized dorsal maculations (based on the average numbers of scales within dorsal maculations) from A. s. syriacus and A. s. schreiberi, respectively. The obtained electropherograms of the examined blood-serum protein samples showed important qualitative differences between the Cypriot and Anatolian populations; in the Cypriot samples the total protein fraction number was 13-14, while in Anatolian samples the number between 14 and 16, indicating the difference. It is also stressed that the only known biotope of the subspecies in Anatolia is now under grave habitat destruction, which should cease immediately to safeguard the future of the subspecies.
Yalcinkaya, D. & Yildiz, M.Z. & Sami, E. & Bozkurt, M.A. & Üces, F. & Ozcan, A.F. (1922) -
In this study, it was aimed to determine the amphibian and reptile species distributed in Kahramanmaraş province. Between the years 2016-2018, a total of 52 species (6 amphibians, 4 turtles, 21 lizards and 21 snakes species) belonging to 20 families were determined in Kahramanmaraş province during field surveys conducted at 451 localities. The records and their locations are presented in a map and a table. However, Bufo bufo (Linnaeus, 1758), Darevskia valentini (Boettger, 1892), Ablepharus chernovi Darevsky, 1953, Chamaeleo chamaeleon (Linnaeus, 1758), Parvilacerta parva (Boulenger, 1887), Anatololacerta pelasgiana (Mertens, 1959), Elaphe sauromates (Pallas, 1811) and Rhynchocalamus satunini (Nikolsky, 1899) were recorded for the first time from Kahramanmaraş.
Yamao, Y. & Watanabe, H. (1940) -
Yan, X.-F. & Tang, X.-L. & Yue, F. & Zhang, D.-J. & Xin, Y. Wang, C. & Chen, Q. (2011) -
To assess the potential gestational effects on post-hatching morphology, locomotor performance, and early growth rate, we maintained gravid Eremias multiocellata under four constant treatment temperatures (25, 29, 31, and 35 °C). Ambient temperature had significant effects on some morphometric traits of offspring, including tail length, head size, forelimb length and hindlimb length, but not on body mass or snout-vent length. The data of females` body temperature indirectly support the maternal manipulation hypothesis. Juvenile E. multiocellata had better locomotor performance and faster early growth rate at 29 °C than at the other three treatment temperatures (25, 31, and 35 °C). Our results suggest that gestation temperature may be optimized at 29 °C for E. multiocellata from Tianzhu, Gansu Province, China.
Yan, Y. & Liu, X. & Liu, Y. (1997) -
Yanchukov, A. & Tarkhnishvili, D. & Erdolu, M. & Şahin, M.K. & Candan, K. & Murtskhvaladze, M. & Gabelaia, M. & Iankoshvili, G. & Barateli, N. & Ilgaz, Ç. & Kumlutaş, Y. & Matur, F. & Çolak, F. & Arakelyan, M. & Galoyan, E. (2022) -
We genotyped multiple populations of all seven parthenogenetic species of rock lizards, genus Darevskia, as well as their putative sexual parental populations, using double digest RAD sequencing genomic markers. Taking advantage of the conserved homology of the ZW/ZZ sex chromosomes among lacertid lizards, we aligned our short sequence reads to a reference Z chromosome assembly of the common wall lizard Podarcis muralis. This provided unique insight into the origin of all-female hybrid populations, which inherited their single Z chromosome exclusively from a paternal ancestor. The mapped Z-linked loci were used to construct a robust time-calibrated phylogeny. In each parent–offspring species pair, the geographically nearest population of the paternal species was identified as the most likely ancestor of the respective parthenogen, mirroring the trend observed previously on the maternal side in mitochondrial DNA. The estimated splits between the sampled paternal sexual ancestors and their daughter species occurred much earlier than suggested previously and during two narrow time periods: (1) the parthenogenetic Darevskia armeniaca, D. dahli, D. uzzelli and D. rostombekowi dated back to ~0.5 or ~0.9 Mya, depending on the calibration point used, while (2) D. bendimahiensis, D. sapphirina and D. unisexualis appear to have diverged ~1 or ~2 Mya.
Yanenko, V.O. & Kovalchuk, O.M. & Smirnov, N.A. (2018) -
The paper deals with the study of the comparative osteological collection of extant amphibians and reptiles deposited in the Department of Palaeontology of the National Museum of Natural History, NAS of Ukraine. The collection has been recently catalogued and here is described for the first time. It consists of 407 storage units represented by complete or fragmented dry skeletons, skulls, and isolated bones belonging to 104 species of 65 genera, 23 families, and five orders (Caudata, Anura, Crocodilia, Testudines, Squamata). The collection also includes bones of 12 species currently listed in the Red Data Book of Ukraine: Salamandra salanandra, Lissotriton montandonti, Bombina (bombina) variegata, Rana dalmatina, Pseudopus apodus, Mediodactylus kotschyi, Lacerta viridis, Coronella austriaca, Elaphe dione, Zamenis situla, Zamenis longissimus, and Vipera renardi. Collection materials were collected at different times (from the last third of the 19th century until the present day) in 16 countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa. In terms of further enrichment, the collection can be used in batrachological and herpetological studies, and will be of interest for palaeontologists, archaeozoologists, and morphologists who work with osteological materials.
Yanes Mendez, C. & Martin Trujillo, J.M. & Pérez Batista, M.A. & Monzón Mayor, M. & Marrero, A. (1988) -
Yanes-Marichal, N.R. & Francisco-Sánchez, A.F. & Molina-Borja, M. (2017) -
Lizards from the Canary Islands may act as pests of several cultivated plants. As a case in point, vineyard farmers often complain about the lizards’ impact on grapes. Though no specific pesticide is used for lizards, several pesticides are used in vineyards to control for insects, fungi, etc. We therefore tested whether lizards (Gallotia galloti palmae) could detect and discriminate pesticide-treated from untreated grapes. To answer this question, we performed experiments with adults of both sexes obtained from three localities in La Palma Island. Two of them were a vineyard and a banana plantation that had been treated with pesticides and the other one was in a natural (untreated) site. In the laboratory, lizards were offered simultaneously one untreated (water sprayed) and one treated (with Folithion 50 LE, diluted to 0.1%) grape placed on small plates. The behaviour of the lizards towards the fruits was filmed and subsequently quantified by means of their tongue-flick, licks or bite rates to each of the grapes. Results showed that only lizards from the natural (untreated) site clearly differentiated the two types of grapes, performing significantly more tongue-flicks, licks and bites to the untreated than to the pesticide-treated grapes. Lizards captured at the other two sites (cultivated fields with pesticide treatment), did not show a signifi-cantly different response to the two types of grapes. These results suggest that lizards living in or near cultivated fields may be habituated to pesticide-treated food and, therefore, do not clearly discriminate treated from untreated food items. However, another possibility is that natural selec-tion (or maybe resistance) could be responsible by these individuals in the populations showing this kind of pesticide insensitiveness.
Yanes, C. & Monzon-Mayor, M. & Barry, J. de & Gombos, G. (1992) -
Yanes, C. & Monzon-Mayor, M. & Chandour, M.S. & Barry, J. de & Gombos, G. (1990) -
The development of radial glia and astrocytes in the telencephalon of the lizard Gallotia galloti was studied by immunohistochemistry with anti-vimentin and anti-GFAP antibodies. Vimentin appears at embryonic stage 32 (E32) in the proliferative zone of the lateral ventricle and subpial end-feet in the marginal zone. At E34-35 the staining intensity for vimentin in all radial glia is maximal. It then decreases and disappears in most structures in adult animals. GFAP appears at E35 in the end-feet in the marginal zone and its intensity increases until adult hood, particularly in radial and sinuous fibers and in fibers that originate from the sulci and invade the ventral striatum and the septum. In contrast, the reaction is weak in the cortex, in the anterior dorso-ventricular ridge, and in the amygdala nuclei. Radial glia is still present in the adult, and the composition of its intermediate filaments changes during development from vimentin to GFAP. No GFA-positive cell bodies except those of ependymal glia were detected in telencephalon.
Yanes, C. & Monzon-Mayor, M. & Gombos, G. & Renau Piqueras, J. & Sturrock, R.R. (1997) -
A study was made of the maturation of glial precursors in the subpallial nuclei during the development of the central nervous system of the lizard Gallotia galloti. At the ultrastructural level these cells resemble developing glial cells previously described in mammals. Early glioblasts, light and dark glioblasts, astroblasts, oligodendroblasts, and active oligodendrocytes predominate during the prenatal period. Immature and satellite astrocytes as well as light and medium oligodendrocytes are the main cells observed between hatching and the early postnatal period. The early postnatal period is characterized by the presence of medium and satellite oligodendrocytes, most of which become dark oligodendrocytes in the adult. The thickness of myelin sheaths increases between hatching and adult age. Gliofilament-rich mature astrocytes similar to those seen in the midbrain of these animals were never found, not even in adults. The paucity of gliofilaments in immature astrocytes explains why we could not detect perikarya containing glial fibrillary acidic protein in the telencephalon of Gallotia galloti (Yanes et al., [1990] J. Comp. Neurol. 295:559–568). The presence of glioblasts and immature astrocytes in the subpallial nuclei of lizards suggests that these animals could serve as particularly valuable models in studies of glial regeneration in the central nervous system.
Yanes, C. & Perez-Batista, M.A. & Martin-Trujillo, J.M. & Monzon, M. & Rodriguez, A. (1989) -
The ventral striatum nucleus (VS) begins development at Stage 31 (E. 31) from the neuroblasts which proceed from the cellular proliferation of both the ventral and terminal sulci. The ultrastructural features of the neuroblasts of VS between E. 31 and E. 34 have the aspect of immature cells, but as from E. 38 neuronal maturity is gradual until hatching. At E. 34 cellular death occurs. The first degenerated cells belong to Type I (nuclear degeneration) of the pycnotic cells; as from E. 40 cytoplasmic degeneration appears. Vascularisation starts at E. 35 and from E. 38 the first synaptic contacts are observed, especially those of the axodendritic type.
Yang J., Sun Y.Y., An H. & Ji X. (2008) -
We acclimated adults of Takydromus septentrionalis (northern grass lizard) from four localities (populations) under identical thermal conditions to examine whether local thermal conditions have a fixed influence on thermal preference and thermal tolerance in the species. Selected body temperature (Tsel), critical thermal minimum (CTMin), and critical thermal maximum (CTMax) did not differ between sexes and among localities in lizards kept under identical laboratory conditions for approximately 5 months, and the interaction effects between sex and locality on these measures were not significant. Lizards acclimated to the three constant temperatures (20, 25, and 35 degrees C) differed in Tsel, CTMin, and CTMax. Tsel, CTMin, and CTMax all shifted upward as acclimation temperature increased, with Tsel shifting from 32.0 to 34.1 degrees C, CTMin from 4.9 to 8.0 degrees C, and CTMax from 42.0 to 44.5 degrees C at the change-over of acclimation temperature from 20 to 35 degrees C. Lizards acclimated to the three constant temperatures also differed in the range of viable body temperatures; the range was widest in the 25 degrees C treatment (38.1 degrees C) and narrowest in the 35 degrees C treatment (36.5 degrees C), with the 20 degrees C treatment in between (37.2 degrees C). The results of this study show that local thermal conditions do not have a fixed influence on thermal preference and thermal tolerance in T. septentrionalis.
Yang, J. & Sun, Y.-Y. & An, H. & Ji, X. (2008) -
Yang, J.-H. & Wang, Y.-Y. (2010) -
The Chung-an ground lizard, Takydromus sylvaticus is a poorly known species that is restricted to a few localities in South China. Here we report the fourth recorded locality of T. sylvaticus based on voucher specimens collected from Ren-hua County, Guangdong Province, China. Morphological comparisons between our voucher specimens and previous collections allow us to provide information on scale variations, age-dependent color differentiation, and sexual dimorphism for this poorly known species.
Yang, L. & Shen, Q. & Zeng, T. & Li, J. & Li, W. & Wang, Y. (2019) -
Soil contaminants can cause direct harm to lizards due to their regular swallowing of soil particles. As the world’s fastest growing insecticide with long half-life in soil, the endocrine disrupting effect of neonicotinoids on lizards deserves more attention. In this report, we assessed the endocrine disrupting effect of imidacloprid on Eremias argus during 28 days of continuous exposure. Among the imidacloprid and its metabolites, only the metabolite 6-chloropyridic acid had a significant accumulation in the gonads and was positively correlated with its blood concentration. Imidacloprid might cause endocrine disrupting effects on lizards in two ways. First, the desnitro metabolites of imidacloprid could accumulate in the brain, inhibited the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, and ultimately affected the feedback regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal related hormones. Secondly, imidacloprid severely inhibited the gene expression of the corresponding enzymes in the gonadal anti-oxidative stress system, causing histological damage to the gonads and ultimately affecting gonadal function. Specifically, exposure to imidacloprid resulted in abnormal arrangement of spermatogenic epithelial epithelium, hyperplasia of epididymal wall, and oligospermia of male lizard. Meanwhile, gene expressions of cyp17, cyp19, and hsd17β were severely inhibited in the imidacloprid exposure group, consistent with decreased levels of testosterone and estradiol in plasma. Imidacloprid exposure could cause insufficient androgen secretion and less spermatogenesis in male lizards. The risk of imidacloprid exposure to female lizards was not as severe as that of male lizards, but it still inhibited the expression of cyp19 in the ovaries and led to a decrease in the synthesis of estradiol. This study firstly reported the endocrine disruption of imidacloprid to lizards, providing new data for limiting the use of neonicotinoids.
Yang, W. & Feiner, N. & Pinho, C. & While, G.M. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. & Harris, D.J. & Salvi, D. & Uller, T. (2021) -
The Mediterranean basin is a hotspot of biodiversity, fuelled by climatic oscillation and geological change over the past 20 million years. Wall lizards of the genus Podarcis are among the most abundant, diverse, and conspicuous Mediterranean fauna. Here, we unravel the remarkably entangled evolutionary history of wall lizards by sequencing genomes of 34 major lineages covering 26 species. We demonstrate an early (>11 MYA) separation into two clades centred on the Iberian and Balkan Peninsulas, and two clades of Mediterranean island endemics. Diversification within these clades was pronounced between 6.5–4.0 MYA, a period spanning the Messinian Salinity Crisis, during which the Mediterranean Sea nearly dried up before rapidly refilling. However, genetic exchange between lineages has been a pervasive feature throughout the entire history of wall lizards. This has resulted in a highly reticulated pattern of evolution across the group, characterised by mosaic genomes with major contributions from two or more parental taxa. These hybrid lineages gave rise to several of the extant species that are endemic to Mediterranean islands. The mosaic gen- omes of island endemics may have promoted their extraordinary adaptability and striking diversity in body size, shape and colouration, which have puzzled biologists for centuries.
Yang, W. & Feiner, N.ö & Laakonen, H. & Sacchi, R. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Scali, S. & While, G.M. & Uller, T. (2020) -
Hybrid zones provide insights into the evolution of reproductive isolation. Sexual selection can contribute to the evolution ofreproductive barriers, but it remains poorly understood how sexual traits impact gene flow in secondary contact. Here, we showthat a recently evolved suite of sexual traits that function in male-male competition mediates gene flow between two lineages ofwall lizards (Podarcis muralis). Gene flow was relatively low and asymmetric in the presence of exaggerated male morphology andcoloration compared to when the lineages share the ancestral phenotype. Putative barrier loci were enriched in genomic regionsthat were highly differentiated between the two lineages and showed low concordance between the transects. The exceptionwas a consistently low genetic exchange aroundATXN1, a gene that modulates social behavior. We suggest that this gene maycontribute to the male mate preferences that are known to cause lineage-assortative mating in this species. Although female choicemodulates the degree of reproductive isolation in a variety of taxa, wall lizards demonstrate that both male-male competition and male mate choice can contribute to the extent of gene flow between lineages.
Yang, W. & While, G.M. & Laakkonen, H. & Sacchi, R. & Zuffi, M.A.L. & Scali, S. & Salvi, D. & Uller, T. (2018) -
Strongly selected characters can be transferred from one lineage to another with limited genetic exchange, resulting in asymmetric introgression and a mosaic genome in the receiving population. However, systems are rarely sufficiently well studied to link the pattern of introgression to its underlying process. Male common wall lizards in western Italy exhibit exaggeration of a suite of sexually selected characters that make them outcompete males from a distantly related lineage that lack these characters. This results in asymmetric hybridization and adaptive introgression of the suite of characters following secondary contact. We developed genomewide markers to infer the demographic history of gene flow between different genetic lineages, identify the spread of the sexually selected syndrome, and test the prediction that introgression should be asymmetric and heterogeneous across the genome. Our results show that secondary contact was accompanied by gene flow in both directions across most of the genome, but with approximately 3% of the genome showing highly asymmetric introgression in the predicted direction. Demographic simulations reveal that this asymmetric gene flow is more recent than the initial secondary contact, and the data suggest that the exaggerated male sexual characters originated within the Italian lineage and subsequently spread throughout this lineage before eventually reaching the contact zone. These results demonstrate that sexual selection can cause a suite of characters to spread throughout both closely and distantly related lineages with limited gene flow across the genome at large.
Yang, W. et al. (2022) -
The Mediterranean Basin has experienced extensive change in geology and climate over the past six million years. Yet, the relative importance of key geological events for the distribution and genetic structure of the Mediterranean fauna remains poorly understood. Here, we use population genomic and phylogenomic analyses to establish the evolutionary history and genetic structure of common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis). This species is particularly informative because, in contrast to other Mediterranean lizards, it is widespread across the Iberian, Italian, and Balkan Peninsulas, and in extra-Mediterranean regions. We found strong support for six major lineages within P. muralis, which were largely discordant with the phylogenetic relationship of mitochondrial DNA. The most recent common ancestor of extant P. muralis was likely distributed in the Italian Peninsula, and experienced an “Out-of-Italy” expansion following the Messinian salinity crisis (∼5 Mya), resulting in the differentiation into the extant lineages on the Iberian, Italian, and Balkan Peninsulas. Introgression analysis revealed that both inter- and intraspecific gene flows have been pervasive throughout the evolutionary history of P. muralis. For example, the Southern Italy lineage has a hybrid origin, formed through admixture between the Central Italy lineage and an ancient lineage that was the sister to all other P. muralis. More recent genetic differentiation is associated with the onset of the Quaternary glaciations, which influenced population dynamics and genetic diversity of contemporary lineages. These results demonstrate the pervasive role of Mediterranean geology and climate for the evolutionary history and population genetic structure of extant species.
Yang, Y. & Gao, Z. & Zhao, E. (1989) -
Yao, C. (1983) -
Yao, C.-Y. & Chang, S.-Z. (1981) -
Yari, A. & Gharzi, A, (2013) -
Yartsev, V.V. & Kuranova, V.N. & Absalyamova, E.N. (2019) -
Widely distributed reptile species are characterized by reproductive plasticity, which may also appear as variations of the reproductive cycles. To understand the specificity of the male reproductive cycle of Zootoca vivipara in the Asian part of its range, males from the Tomsk population (the southeast of the Western Siberia) caught from April till July 2017 were studied (n = 27). The dynamics of gonadosomatic index (GSI), body fat index (BFI), germinal epithelium area (GEA), testosterone concentration (TC) in the serum, ratio of spermatogenic cell count, and the presence of spermatozoa in epididymis were analyzed. Also, the age of males was evaluated via skeletochronology. Many spermatocytes were found in males after their emerging from winter burrows (late April) in the testes. Since this time till early May, GSI, FBI, GEA, and TC increased. At this time, the greatest pull of spermatids occurred in the testes. During the breeding period (May – early June), GSI, FBI, GEA, and TC sharply decreased, and spermatozoa occurred in both testes and epididymis. In mid-June, a new spermatogenic cycle began (spermatogonial proliferation). Since this time till July, GSI, FBI, and GEA increased again along with the increased number of spermatocytes. The total spermatogenic cycle in the studied population was 12 months, but it was characterized by a short mating period and the related spermatogenic processes in comparison with the European populations
В.В. Ярцев ; В.Н. Куранова ; Е.Н. Абсалямова (2019) -
Широко распространенные виды пресмыкающихся характеризуются репродуктивной пластичностью, которая проявляется также в вариабельности репродуктивных циклов. Для понимания специфики репродуктивного цик- ла самцов Zootoca vivipara в азиатской части ареала исследованы самцы томской популяции вида (окрестности г.Томска,юго-востокЗападнойСибири),отловленныесапреляпоиюль2017г.(n =27).Проанализированади- намика гонадосоматического индекса (ГСИ), относительной массы жировых тел (ОМЖТ), площади семенного эпителия (ПСЭ), уровня тестостерона в сыворотке крови (УТ), соотношение числа сперматогенных клеток в се- менниках и наличие сперматозоидов в придатках семенника, а также определен возраст методом скелетохро- нологии. У самцов после выхода из зимовки (конец апреля) в семенниках зарегистрировано большое количество сперматоцитов. К началу мая отмечено увеличение ГСИ, ОМЖТ, ПСЭ, УТ, а также формирование максималь- ного пула сперматид. В ходе размножения (май – начало июня) ГСИ, ОМЖТ, ПСЭ, УТ резко уменьшаются, при этом сперматозоиды появляются как в семенниках, так и в их придатках. В середине июня отмечено начало ново- го цикла сперматогенеза (пролиферация сперматогониев). С этого периода до июля ГСИ, ОМЖТ, ПСЭ увеличи- ваются вместе с ростом числа сперматоцитов. Общая длительность сперматогенного цикла в исследованной по- пуляции составляет около 12 месяцев, но он характеризуется сжатыми сроками спаривания и связанными с этим процессами сперматогенеза в сравнении с европейскими популяциями вида.
Yarygin, A.M. (2010) -
Serial sections of 15 L. agilis embryos on the successive developmental stages, stained with hematoxylin-eosin or alcian blue and hematoxylin-eosin, were examined. It was found that cartilaginous pterygoquadrate complex of L. agilis consists of four parts: quadrate cartilage, pterygoquadrate cartilage, pterygoid process, and processus ascendens. Pterygoquadrate cartilage and pterygoid process are reduced in prenatal ontogenesis, but not earlier than underlying pterygoid bone is developed. The processus ascendens becomes the first cartilaginous parts of this complex, and then the other elements undergo chondrification. Basipterigoid process is formed by two independent parts: aboral part of cranial trabeculas and basipterigoid cartilage. Meniscus pterygoideus is an independent structure, but not a rudiment of the pterygoid process. A previously unrecorded cartilage was revealed and a name basipterigoid cartilage is proposed for it.
Yarygin, A.N. (2009) -
Formation of chondrocranium of Lacerta agilis Linnaeus, 1758 in early embryogenesis is described. Particular attention is given to both the primary anlagen of the neurocranium, and participation of the acrochordal cartilage in formation of the crista sellaris. The attention is paid to debatable questions. Morphological descriptions are based on hematoxylin and counterstained with eosin serially-sectioned embryos. The results show that mesenchymatous rudiments of parachordals, acrochordal cartilage and trabecula cranii are the first to appear in the chondrocranium of Lacerta agilis. The parachordals are the first to chondrify following by chondrification of the acrochordal cartilage and the trabecula cranii.
Yaryhin, O. & Klembara, J. (2013) -
Yaryhin, O. & Klembara, J. (2015) -
The basipterygoid (or basitrabecular) process in lizards arises in ontogeny as an outgrowth from the posterior portion of the trabecle. The separate origin of the basipterygoid process has been currently recorded only in one lizard, the chamaeleonid Bradypodion pumilum. Herein, we describe the ontogeny of the basipterygoid process in two species of Lacerta. Although the basipterygoid process in L. viridis develops as in most other lizards, the L. agilis basipterygoid process arises as an independent nodule of cartilage and it fuses with the trabecle only later in ontogeny.
Yaryhin, O. & Werneburg, I. (2018) -
The sand lizard, Lacerta agilis, is a classical model species in herpetology. Its adult skull anatomy and its embryonic development are well known. The description of its fully formed primordial skull by Ernst Gaupp, in 1900, was a key publication in vertebrate morphology and influenced many comparative embryologists. Based on recent methodological considerations, we restudied the early cranial development of this species starting as early as the formation of mesenchymal condensations up to the fully formed chondrocranium. We traced the formation of the complex chondrocranial architecture in detail, clarified specific homologies for the first time, and uncovered major differences to old textbook descriptions. Comparison with other lacertid lizards revealed a very similar genesis of the primordial skull. However, we detected shifts in the developmental timing of particular cartilaginous elements, mainly in the nasal region, which may correlate to specific ecological adaptation in the adults. Late timing of nasal elements might be an important innovation for the successful wide range distribution of the well‐known sand lizard.
Yasar, C. & Cicek, L. & Mulder, J. & Tok, C.V. (2021) -
Knowledge on the spatial distribution of taxa is crucial for the decision-making processes in conservation and management of biodiversity that rely on precise distribution data. We present an annotated list for a total of 37 amphibian (20 caudatans and 17 anurans) and 141 reptile species (11 chelonians, 70 lizards, 3 amphisbaenians and 57 snakes) in Turkey, using both available scientific literature up to December 2020 and our own fieldwork data from 1987 to 2020. We provide a comprehensive listing of taxonomy, names, distribution and conservation status of Turkish amphibians and reptiles. The herpetofauna list will be particularly useful for establishing national conservation priorities as well as for placing Turkish fauna into phylogenetic and biogeographic contexts. We compiled information published in books, journals and various web sources and added our personal data. We projected the data in the WGS84 coordinate system and created an overlay grid with cells of 50x50 km2. The database comprises more than 500 grid cells and 11,913 records. As a result, the distribution of Turkish amphibians and reptiles has been extensively mapped with geographical information systems and a database has been created. The obtained data will be useful in planning future studies on taxonomy, ecology and conservation of Turkish amphibians and reptiles.
Yavuz, M. & Tunc, R.M. (2015) -
In this study the terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna around the Ancient City of Phaselis and in its Vicinity were evaluated. The project over the course of 5 years that began in 2012, surveyed the terrestrial fauna which could be found during 2012‐2013 and the list of the literature recording this vertebrate fauna present in the area is provided in this report. Also in this study the general properties of some of the species observed in the field are given with a photograph. In this context, field studies conducted during 2012‐2013, from the results of these field studies: 35 species of amphibians and reptiles, 26 species of mammals and 122 species of birds were identified. Considering the conservation status of these species; undefined IUCN status for one of the species in the reptile and amphibian group, 1 species in CR, 1 EN, 3 NT, 1 VU, 28 LC located in this category; for birds: 2 species NT, 2 VU and 118 species LC located in this category; for the mammals: 2 species NT, 3 types VU, 20 LC located in category and 1 species is in an undefined category. The current situation during this study and the number of the species and some features of the fauna will change through the wider range of future studies to examine the fauna and their environmental situation).
Yazaki, H. & Kishimura, M. & Tsubuki, M. & Hayashi, F. (2019) -
The final-instar larvae of Pryeria sinica Moore, 1877 (Zygaenidae) are conspicuously colored yellow-green with black stripes and are known to escape from attacks after predators learn of the cyanogenic fluids secreted on their body surface. Ivela auripes (Butler, 1877) (Lymantriidae) is often found in the same habitat during the same season as P. sinica, and its pupa (not larva) is similar to larval P. sinica in shape and color. Mature larvae of P. sinica search for pupation sites during the daytime and pupate in cryptic, pale-brown cocoons. On the other hand, I. auripes pupates without cocoons on substrates near and above the ground, where they appear to be exposed to predators. In this study, it was observed that Japanese tits, Parus minor Temminck & Schlegel, 1848, ate I. auripes pupae attached to a wall, but no tit individual ever attacked them repeatedly. When fed pupae or larvae in the laboratory, Japanese grass lizards, Takydromus tachydromoides (Schlegel, 1838), rarely ate larval P. sinica or pupal I. auripes or regurgitated them soon after eating them, suggesting their unpalatability. If discrimination of pupal I. auripes from larval P. sinica is not precise for these potential predators, their similar warning colors might constitute a rare case of Müllerian mimicry between different developmental stages of unrelated moth species.
Yeadon, R.B. (1991) -
Yeremchenko, V.K. & Shukurov, E.F. & Szczerbak, N.N. (1985) -
Yeryomchenko, V.K. & Chirikova, M.S. (2008) -
Yi-Lian, W., Xue-Feng, X., Lin-Sheng, W., Jian-Long, Z. (2006) -
We studied the embryonic use of material and energy during incubation and hatchling traits in the lacertid lizards Eremias argus, which were collected from a mountain population in Langyashan, Chuzhou, eastern China in April, 2005. We randomly selected one egg from eleven clutches, opened and separated them into shell and contents, the other eggs were incubated at naturally fluctuating temperature (varying from 14.0 to 37.0 ℃) using wet vermiculite as the incubation substrate, of which the moisture was kept at -12 kPa water potential. The incubation length of first clutches and second clutches averaged 37.5d and 33.0d, respectively. The wet mass of eggs increased for absorbing moisture while incubating, but no significant difference of the final wet mass was founded between first clutches and second clutches. Fluctuating temperature significantly affected Fat body dry mass, but it did not affect hatching success, sex ratio, snout-vent length, tail length, body wet mass, body dry mass, carcass dry mass and residual yolk dry mass of hatchlings. Fat body dry mass from higher fluctuating temperature was greater than did that from lower fluctuating temperature. Incubation temperature affected some norphological traits of hatchlings, with hatchlings from higher temperature having larger hindleg length and tympanum length than did those from lower temperature. Embryo from higher temperature used much calcium than did that from lower temperature. During incubation, approximately 57.5% of dry material, 27.8% of non-polar lipids and 47.4% of energy in the yolk of freshly laid egg was transferred to the hatchling. There was not significant clutch variation of embryonic use of material and energy and hatchling traits in Eremias argus [Acta Zoologica Sinica 52(6): 1169 – 1173, 2006].
Yi, C. (2004) -
Yildez, M.Z. & Igci, N. & Akman, B. & Göcmen, B. (2018) -
Turkey türkei As a result of a literature survey and field studies covering all regions of the Turkish Province of Agri, the authors found the area inhabited by three anuran, two chelonian, 16 lizard and 14 snake species. The records and their locations are presented in a map, a table and an Appendix. In the field studies the present paper is based upon Mauremys caspica, Ablepharus bivittatus, Parvilacerta parva, Eremias pleskei, Xerotyphlops vermicularis, Natrix natrix, Coronella austriaca, Eirenis eiselti, Dolichophis jugularis, Dolichophis schmidti, Platyceps najadum and Montivipera wagneri were recorded for the first time in the Province of Agri.
Yildirim Caynak, E. & Ilhaz, C. & Kumlutas, Y. & Gül. S. (2021) -
Age structure, body size and growth rate of Darevskia valentini inhabiting from different three localities were studied by skeletochronology. Age was determined by counting the lines of arrested growth (LAGs) in phalangeal cross-sections. A total of 73 museum specimens (24 specimens from Kayseri, 20 specimens from Van and 29 specimens from Sivas) were used for this study. The mean age of males in three populations was older than those of females. The mean age of males was found to be 4.33 0.28 years in Van population, 5 0.28 years in Kayseri population and 5.18 0.35 years for Sivas population. The maximum lifespan in Sivas population was 7 years for both sexes whereas it was 6 years in Kayseri population and 5 years in Van population. In the three populations, ages at sexual maturity of females and males were 3 and 2 years, respectively. The sexual size dimorphism was female-biased in the three populations. The mean snout-vent length (SVL) for males was calculated as 64.30 1.15 mm in Van population, 68.48 1.43 mm in Sivas population and 66.96 1.19 mm in Kayseri populations. The mean SVL for females was determined as 60.36 1.04 mm in Van population, 64.50 1.73 mm in Sivas population and 68.24 0.85 mm in Kayseri population.
Yildirim, E. (2020) -
The adult skeletons of lacertid lizards Phoenicolacerta laevis and P. cyanisparsa are described based on cleared-and-stained specimens. In comparison with each lacertid species, there are remarkable differences in both cranial and postcranial bones. These are the shape of some cranial bones such as the premaxilla, nasal, quadrate, squamosal, jugal and dentary and the shape of the ischium and ischio-pubis opening and the number of the last presacral vertebrae with small ribs for the postcranial skeletal elements. These detailed descriptions provide as a model to compare lacertid lizards and contribute to understand squamate osteology for further studies.
Yildirim, E. & Arribas, O. & Kumlutas, Y. & Ilgaz, C. (2019) -
A detailed description of cranial and postcranial osteology of Darevskia parvula and D. adjarica is provided osteological data for further comparative studies of other lizards. The descriptions and comparisons are based on 12 specimens, of which 10 adult and 2 juveniles for each species. Darevskia parvula and D. adjarica are highly conservative species and they have similar osteological features. The differences in the current study are the number of teeth for the cranial skeleton and the number of vertebrae for the postcranial. Darevskia parvula has a lower number of teeth than D. adjarica.
Yildirim, E. & Kumlutas, Y. & Candan, K. & Ilgaz, C. (2019) -
The life-history traits of the parthenogenetic lizard Darevskia bendimahiensis were studied by skeletochronology in a population inhabiting highlands in Çaldiran, Van, Turkey. Endosteal resorption was observed in 18 specimens (55%). The mean age was 4.91 ± 0.19 SD years. The mean snout-vent length (SVL) was 51.11 ± 1.15 SD mm. The age at sexual maturity was estimated as 3 years. Longevity was 7 years. Snout-vent length and age were positively correlated (Spearman’s correlation; r = 0.797, P = 0.000). The aim of this study is to contribute to the future conservation activities for this endangered species.
Yildirimhan, H.S. & Bursey, C.R. & Altunel, F.N. (2011) -
Thirty-eight Balkan green lizards, Lacerta trilineata, from Turkey were examined for helminths. Three species of Digenea, Plagiorchis elegans, Pleurogenoides medians, Brachylaemus sp. (metacercaria); 2 species of Cestoda, Oochoristica tuberculata and Mesocestoides sp. (tetrathyridium); and 6 species of Nematoda, Abbreviata abbreviata, Ascarops strongylina (larva in cysts), Falcaustra armenica, Oswaldocruzia filiformis, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni, Skrjabinodon medinae, were found. Lacerta trilineata represents a new host record for each of the parasite species; Plagiorchis elegans, Brachylaemus sp., Oochoristica tuberculata, Mesocestoides sp., Abbreviata abbreviata, Ascarops strongylina (larva), Falcaustra armenica Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni, and Skrjabinodon medinae are reported from Turkey for the first time.
Yildirimhan, H.S. & Karaman, D. & Bursey, C.R. (2020) -
Eighty-two green lizards, Lacerta viridis (Laurenti, 1768), from different locations of Bursa, Turkey, were examined for helminths. Two species of Cestoda, Mesocestoides sp. (as tetrathyridium) and Oochoristica tuberculata, and 4 species of Nematoda, Oswaldocruzia filiformis, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni, Skrjabinelazia taurica, and Skrjabinodon medinae, were found. Lacerta viridis is parasitized by generalist helminths that also infect other lizards. Parasite lists for other Turkish lacertid lizards are given.
Yildirimhan, H.S. & Sümer, N. (2019) -
A total of 80 specimens of three species of lacertid Podarcis muralis (39), Podarcis siculus (18) and Ophisops elegans (23) from Bursa were examined for helminths. One species of Digenea, Plagiorchis elegans, 1 species of Cestoda, Mesocestoides sp. (tetrathyridium); and 3 species of Nematoda, Skrjabinodon medinae, Spauligodon saxicolae and Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni were found. The helminths reported in this study are generalist helminths that infect a number of lizards.
Yildirimhan, H.S. & Sümer, N. & Bursey, C.R. (2020) -
Totally, 106 lacertid lizards of two species, Anatololacerta anatolica (n=63) and Darevskia rudis (n=43), from Bursa Province, Turkey, were examined for helminth parasites. In Anatololacerta anatolica, one species of Cestoda, Mesocestoides sp. (tetrathyridium), four species of Nematoda, Skrjabinodon medinae, Spauligodon saxicolae, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni and Ascarops strongylina (larva in cysts), and one species of Acanthocephala, Plagiorhynchus sp. (cystacanth), were found. In Darevskia rudis, two nematode species, Skrjabinodon medinae and Spauligodon saxicolae, were recorded. The helminth species reported in this study are generalists infecting more than one host species.
Yildiz, M.Z. & Akman, B. & Göçmen, B. (2012) -
We report 18 specimens of Ophisops elegans from Kastamonu and Sinop provinces in the western Black Sea region of Anatolia. Previously, the northernmost known locality for O. elegans in Anatolia was Sinop Province. These new records extend the known distribution area of the species and fill the gaps in the distribution range of the species in the Black Sea region. The specimens were compared with the geographically closest subspecies, O. e. centralanatoliae from Ulukisla, Nigde. On the basis of pholidosis, coloration, and pattern, the new specimens can be included in the subspecies O. e. centralanatoliae.
Yildiz, M.Z. & Igci, N. (2015) -
This is the first report of the occurrence of Iranolacerta brandtii in Eastern Anatolia. The distribution of I. brandtii is extended approximately 230 km eastwards into Van province, Turkey, showing that this species is not endemic to Iran as previously stated in the literature. Seven specimens were collected from four different localities between May and September 2014. Specimens were evaluated with respect to their morphological characters and some ecological features and their taxonomical status is also discussed.
Yildiz, M.Z. & Igci, N. & Akman, B. & Göcmen, B. (2018) -
As a result of a literature survey and field studies covering all regions of the Turkish Province of Agri, the authors found the area inhabited by three anuran, two chelonian, 16 lizard and 14 snake species. The records and their locations are presented in a map, a table and an Appendix. In the field studies the present paper is based upon Mauremys caspica, Ablepharus bivittatus, Parvilacerta parva, Eremias pleskei, Xerotyphlops vermicularis, Natrix natrix, Coronella austriaca, Eirenis eiselti, Dolichophis jugularis, Dolichophis schmidti, Platyceps najadum and Montivipera wagneri were recorded for the first time in the Province of Agri.
In this study, it is aimed to determine Amphibian and Reptilian species of Ararat Mountain and near Environment, threats to species and precautions to be taken against these factors. For these purposes, total of 18 days herpetological trips carried out in Ararat Mountain between 2011-2017. As a result of the trips and literature searches, 4 Anuran (Bufotes variabilis, Pelophylax ridibundus, Hyla savignyi, Pelobates syriacus), 2 Chelonian species (Mauremys caspica, Testudo graeca) 10 lizard species (Paralaudakia caucasia, Phrynocephalus horvathi, Heremites auratus, Eumeces schneiderii, Eremias strauchi, Eremias pleskei, Darevskia valentini, Lacerta strigata, Ophisops elegans, Pseudopus apodus) and 13 snake species (Xertoyphlops vermicularis, Dolichophis schmidti, Eirenis collaris, Hemorrhois ravergieri, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Platyceps najadum, Zamenis hohenackeri, Z. longissimus, Eryx jaculus, Malpolon insignitus, Macrovipera lebetina, Montivipera raddei) a total of 4 amphibians and 25 reptilian species belonging to 14 families were determined in Ararat Mountain.
Yiliz, M.Z. & Sarikaya, B. & Bozkurt, M.A. (2019) -
In this research, it is intended to determine amphibian and reptile species distributed in Hatay province (East Mediterranean region, Turkey). For this aim, it is realized herpetological trip to al region of the province of Hatay in March, April, May, July, September and October in 2016 and in March and May in 2017. As a result of this study, it is recorded five anuran, two urodela species belong to five families, six chelonian belong to 5 families, and 17 lizard belong to seven families and 22 snake species belong to four families in the province Hatay (7 amphibians and 45 reptiles in total). As a result of this project; Trapelus lessonae (De filippi, 1865), and Eirenis barani Schmidtler, 1988 were recorded for in the province of Hatay in first. We report the most updated information regarding the herpetofauna of Hatay province.
Bu çalışmanın amacı Hatay’da yaşayan amfibi ve reptil türlerinin belirlenmesidir. Bu amaçla; 2016 yılının Mart, Nisan, Mayıs, Temmuz, Eylül ve Ekim ve 2017 yılının Mart ve Mayıs aylarında, Hatay ilinin tüm bölgelerini kapsayacak şekilde arazi çalışmaları düzenlenmiştir. Bu çalışmalar sonucunda Hatay ilinde dağılış gösteren dört familyaya ait beş kuyruksuz kurbağa türü bir familyaya ait iki kuyruklu kurbağa türü, beş familyaya ait altı kaplumbağa türü, yedi familyaya ait 17 kertenkele türü ve dört familyaya ait 22 yılan türü olmak üzere toplam 52 amfibi ve reptil türü belirlenmiştir. Bu çalışma ile Trapelus lessonae (De filippi, 1865) ve Eirenis barani Schmidtler, 1988 türleri Hatay ili için ilk kez tespit edilmiştir. Hatay ili ve civarının herpetofaunası ile ilgili güncel bilgiler sunulmuştur.
Yilmaz, A.B. & Kilic, Ö.O. & Adizel, Ö. & Bulum, E. & Yüksek, N. (2018) -
This study aims to identify the ticks living on reptiles of Small Nemrut Mountain as ectoparasites. Field work was carried out between May and November 2016. The mountain which attracts a lot of visitors is an extinct volcano. There are settlements close to the mountain. Furthermore, the area is the upland for the local fauna. 12 reptile species live on the mountain. In the scans on reptiles living in the area, the Hyalomma aegyptium type tick is identified on Testudo graeca (Common Tortoise) and Darevskia valentini (Valentin’s Lizard) species. The infestation rate was found to be 66.66% on tortoises and 28.57% on lizards. In the resources, it was reported that Borellia turcica, Theileria spp, Borellia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which are microorganisms with high pathogenicity in humans and animals, are isolated from H. aegyptium collected from tortoises. In addition, it was reported in various studies that Hyalomma aegyptium is a reservoir host for Hemoliva mauritanica which is a blood parasite that has been identified to intensively cause diseases in tortoises.
Yoshikawa, T. & Okano, T. & Kokame, K. & Hisatomi, O. & Tokunaga, F. & Oishi & Fukada, Y. (2001) -
Extraretinal photoreceptor cells have been found in the pineal complex and deep brain of a variety of non-mammalian vertebrates. Light signals received by these photoreceptor cells seem to be a potent regulator of diverse physiological responses. Here, the pineal complex and deep brain of the Japanese grass lizard, Takydromus tachydromoides, were immunohistochemically analyzed to localize the photoreceptive molecule (opsin) and the light signal-transducing G-protein (transducin). In addition to the pineal organ and parietal eye constituting the pineal complex, we unexpectedly found a parapineal organ, which is located just below the parietal eye and is morphologically similar to the pineal organ. Both organs had photoreceptor-like cells with outer segments immunostained by anti-rhodopsin and anti-pinopsin antibodies. Neither opsin- nor transducin-like immunoreactivities were detected in the parietal eye with all the antibodies tested in this study, although its morphology resembles that of the lateral eyes. In the deep brain region, rhodopsin-like immunoreactivities were observed in the posterior pallial commissure and median eminence. The cerebrospinal fluid-contacting neurons in the paraventricular organ were immunoreactive to an antibody against α-subunit of cone transducin. In lizards, this is the first report showing (1) rhodopsin- and pinopsinlike immunoreactivities in the parapineal organ, (2) rhodopsin-like immunoreactivity in the deep brain, and (3) putative photoreceptive areas in the hypothalamus.
Yoshikura, M. (1938) -
Yousefi, M. & Ataei, F. & Kafash, A. &Rezaei, H.R. (2017) -
Alborz province, an area as big as almost 5833 km2, is located in the west of Tehran province. In a long term study of the lizards in this province which lasted 2 years (2015-2016), 13 species of lizards namely Paralaudakia caucasia, Trapelus agilis, Phrynocephalus persicus, Darevskia defilippi, Lacerta strigata, Eremias persica, Eremias fasciata, Eremias papenfussi, Ophisops elegans, Mesalina watsonana, Bunopus crassicaudus, Ablepharus bivittatus and Eumeces schneideri, belonging to four families, were collected, identified and reported from the area. Thirteen distribution maps for lizards of the Alborz province were also made. Two new distribution records for lizards of Iran in the area were reported. Also, an isolated population of Lacerta strigata in the north of the province was observed which extends altitudinal distribution of the species more than 900 m in Iran. An isolated population of Eremias faciata in the south of the province was observed which is the westernmost record for this species in Iran and extends the known distributional range of the species about 200 km westward.
مسعود یوسفي، فرهاد عطایي، انوشه کفاش، حمیدرضا رضایي (6931) -
استان البرز با وسعتی برابر با 5233 کیلومتر مربع در غرب استان تهران واقع شده است. اطلاعات اندکی درباره خزندگان و توزیع آنها در استان البرز در دسترس است. در مطالعه حاضرکه در سال های 1334-35 در استان البرز صورت گرفته، فون سوسماران این استان مورد شناسایی قرار گرفت و نقشه توزیع سوسماران شناسایی شده، تهیه شد. نتایج حاصـل از ایـن مطالعه نشان داد که 13 گونه سوسمار متعلق به خانوادههای آگـامیـده، لاسرتیـده، جکونیده و سنسیده به قرار زیر Trapelus ،Paralaudakia caucasia Darevskia ،Phrynocephalus persicus ،agilis ،Eremias persica ،Lacerta strigata ،defilippi Ophisops ،Eremias papenfussi ،Eremias fasciata Bunopus ،Mesalina watsonana ،elegans Eumeces و Ablepharus bivittatus ،crassicaudus schneideri در این استان زیست میکنند. در مطالعه حاضر، دو رکورد جدید از توزیع سوسماران ثبت شد. گونه Lacerta strigata در ارتفاعی 399 متر بالاتر از ارتفاع ثبت شده قبلی در شمال استان یافت شد. همچنین غربیترین رکورد توزیع Eremias fasciata در این استان ثبت شد که از رکورد قبلی آن در مرکز ایران تا 299 کیلومتر فاصله دارد.
Yousefi, M. & Khani, A. & Eslahi, H. & Hosseinian Yousefkhani, S.S. (2013) -
During field survey on September 2009 in the northern part of Khorasan Razavi province, inside the Qarchaqe Protected Area, near Bajgiran city, one adult specimen of Darevskia defilippii was found and recorded as easternmost record. (for Iran and globally).
Yu, D.-N. & Ji, X. (2013) -
The mitochondrial genome of Takydromus wolteri (Squamata: Lacertidae) is a circular molecule of 18,236 bp in length, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNAs, 22 transfer RNAs, and a control region. The A+T content of the overall base composition of H-strand is 62% (T: 30.7%, C: 24.5%, A: 31.3%, G: 13.5%). All of the 13 protein-coding genes begin with ATG as start codon. ND1, ATP8, ATP6, ND3, ND4L, ND5, and Cyt b genes are terminated with TAA as stop codon, COI ends with AGG, ND2 ends with TAG, ND6 ends with AGA, and the other four protein-coding genes end with an incomplete stop codon (a single stop nucleotide T). Three distinct repeat regions are found in 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and the control region.
Yu, D.L. & Kuang, Y.L. (1988) -
Yu, H. & Day, T.T. (1984) -
Yu, S. & Nie, Y. & Wang, Z. & Zhang, L. & Liu, R. & Zhang, H. & Zhu, W. & Zheng, M. & Diao, J. (2023) -
The impacts of global climate change and its associated stressors on biodiversity are of mounting concern. Glyphosate have attracted worldwide attention due to their ubiquitous occurrence, yet their impact on reptiles remains unknown. Glyphosate-based herbicide (GBH) exposure in reptiles is currently hampering efforts to predict how individual reptiles can buffer climate change. We designed a simulated environmental exposure experiment over 60 days on the lizard (Eremias argus). Preferred body temperature and active body temperature data were collected to calculate the accuracy of thermoregulation, while liver detoxification metabolic enzymes, oxidative stress system function, and the non-targeted metabolome of the brain tissue were assessed. Warmer-treated lizards adjusted their physiological levels and behavioral strategies in response to increased ambient temperatures and maintained body temperature homeostasis at moderate thermal perturbations. GBH-treated lizards suffered from oxidative damage to the brain tissue and abnormal histidine metabolism, thus their thermoregulatory accuracy reduced. Interestingly, at elevated ambient temperatures, GBH treatment did not affect on their thermoregulatory, possibly through several temperature-dependent detoxification mechanisms. Importantly, this data suggested that the subtle toxicological effects of GBH may threaten increasingly thermoregulation behavior of E. argus with species-wide repercussions, as climate change and exposure time extension.
Yu, S. & Wang, Z. & Zhang, L. & Nie, Y. & Deng, Y. & Liu, R. & Diao, J. & Zhou, Z. (2022) -
Hibernation is a short-term survival strategy for ectotherms to cope with cold weather and food shortages. The energy sources stored before hibernation are used not only in the winter, but also in preparation for reproduction. Reproductive physiology and behavior are primarily regulated by the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis. In this study, we examined endocrine hormone changes in the HPG axis of female lizards (Eremias argus) after chlorantraniliprole insecticide (CAP) exposure during hibernation. The levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and progesterone were significantly decreased and the level of testosterone (T) was significantly increased after 135d experiment. This study verified the possible endocrine disrupting effects of CAP. More energy material consumption was observed in CAP treated group. Female E. argus preferred to invest energy to present survival when exposed to CAP, rather than to reserve material for following reproductive activity.
Yuan, X. & Liu, J. & Zeng, X. & Guo, X. (2014) -
The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes have been well characterized in mammals, birds, amphibians and fishes, but little is known about their organization in reptiles, despite the fact that reptiles occupy an important phylogenetic position for understanding the evolutionary history of vertebrates MHC genes. In this study we used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to amplify the genomic exon 3 and exon 4 fragments of MHC class I genes in three racerunner lizards, including viviparous Multiocellated Racerunner (Eremias multiocellata), viviparous Gobi Racerunner (Eremias przewalskii), and oviparous Ordos Racerunner (Eremias brenchleyi). We also presented the molecular characterization of class I sequences for racerunner lacertids. Gene duplication was detected in the three Eremias species, at least four MHC class I loci in Multiocellated Racerunners and Ordos Racerunners, and at least five in Gobi Racerunners. A putative class I pseudogene was inferred in Ordos Racerunner for a premature stop codon in a segment of so-called exon 3. The peptide binding region, β2-microglobulin interaction sites and a conserved cysteine residue were recognized in α2 domain encoded by exon 3. The β2-microglobulin interaction sites, CD8 molecule interaction sites and a conserved cysteine residue were recognized in α3 domain encoded by exon 4. Putative classical class I genes were expressed in the uterus of both oviparous and viviparous racerunners during pregnancy, along with some alleles unexpressed in uterine. In addition, phylogenetic reconstruction suggested the existence of trans-species polymorphism in MHC class I genes in Eremias. These findings provide clues for further investigations of co-evolution of viviparity and maternal immune system, as well as evolution of squamate MHC.
原秀云 刘金龙 曾晓茂 郭宪光 (2014) -
主要组织相容性复合体(Major histocompatibility complex,MHC)是有颌脊椎动物基因组中的一个高度多态性的基因家族,与免疫系统密切相关,MHC基因特征在哺乳类、鸟类、两栖类和鱼类中已被较好地描述. 为了解爬行动物MHC基因的序列特征,通过PCR技术从胎生种密点麻蜥(Eremias multiocellata)、荒漠麻蜥(Eremias przewalskii)及卵生种山地麻蜥(Eremias brenchleyi)的肝脏中克隆了MHC I类基因外显子3和4的DNA片段,采用RT-PCR(逆转录-PCR)从这3种麻蜥的妊娠期子宫组织克隆了这两个外显子的cDNA片段. 结果表明,3种麻蜥MHC I类基因均发生基因重复,密点麻蜥和山地麻蜥至少有4个基因座位,荒漠麻蜥至少有5个基因座位. 在山地麻蜥获得的其中一条DNA片段中编码氨基酸的密码子突变为终止密码子,推测其为MHC I类基因的假基因. 在外显子3编码的α2结构域中检测到多个多肽结合位点和β-2微球蛋白结合位点以及一个保守的半胱氨酸位点. 在外显子4编码的α3结构域中检测到多个β-2微球蛋白结合位点和CD8分子结合位点以及一个保守的半胱氨酸位点. 基于氨基酸的系统发育分析提示3种麻蜥的子宫均表达经典的MHC I类基因,可能有一些MHC基因座位未在子宫中表达. DNA系统发育重建揭示3种麻蜥MHC I类基因谱系没有表现出物种特异性进化,而表现出跨种多态性. 上述结果为进一步研究胎生繁殖方式与母体免疫系统的协同进化及有鳞目MHC的演化奠定了基础.
Yue, F. & Tang, X.L. & Zhang, D.J. & Yan, X.F. & Xin, Y. & Chen, Q. (2012) -
The body temperature (Tb) and standard metabolic rate (SMR) of female Eremias multiocellata Günther, 1872, a viviparous lizard, were measured at 25, 30, and 35 C during pregnancy and after parturition to assess energy requirement of reproduction. The results showed that the Tbs of female lizards were slightly higher than actual ambient temperature in the 25 and 30 C groups, while they were slightly lower than ambient temperature in the 35 C group. Ambient temperature significantly affected SMR and gestation period of females. Energy requirement was constant in nonpregnant females, whereas it was increased in pregnant females. The maximal estimates of maintenance costs of pregnancy (MCP) were 4.219, 4.220, and 4.448 mg CO2•min–1, which accounted for 19.40%, 14.15%, and 12.32% of the total metabolic rate in the 25, 30, and 35 C group, respectively. The results indicated the MCP was an important component of total energy cost for the lizard E. multiocellata and the MCP in this lizard incurs a relative fixed energetic cost irrespective of ambient temperature.
Yumashev. I.Y. (1999) -
During summer 1997 we carried out the counting of amphibians and reptiles in two points in the south of the Pur region in a sub zone of northern taiga.
Yurchenko, A.A. & Recknagel, H. & Elmer, K.R. (2019) -
Squamate reptiles exhibit high variation in their traits and geographical distribution and are therefore fascinating taxa for evolutionary and ecological research. However, high-quality genomic recourses are very limited for this group of species, which inhibits some research efforts. To address this gap, we assembled a high-quality genome of the common lizard Zootoca vivipara (Lacertidae) using a combination of high coverage Illumina (shotgun and mate-pair) and PacBio sequence data, with RNAseq data and genetic linkage maps. The 1.46 Gbp genome assembly has scaffold N50 of 11.52 Mbp with N50 contig size of 220.4 Kbp and only 2.96% gaps. A BUSCO analysis indicates that 97.7% of the single-copy Tetrapoda orthologs were recovered in the assembly. In total 19,829 gene models were annotated in the genome using a combination of three ab initio and homology-based methods. To improve the chromosome-level assembly, we generated a high-density linkage map from wild-caught families and developed a novel analytical pipeline to accommodate multiple paternity and unknown father genotypes. We successfully anchored and oriented almost 90% of the genome on 19 linkage groups. This annotated and oriented chromosome-level reference genome represents a valuable resource to facilitate evolutionary studies in squamate reptiles.
Zaady, A. & Bouskila, A. (2002) -
We study the relationship between the successional stages of biological soil crusts and the distribution of lizards in the ‘Arava Valley (eastern Negev Desert). In the dry sandy habitat, four stages of the biological soil crust succession can be characterized by the degree of soil surface compaction. Both the geckos (Stenodactylus doriae) and the diurnal lizards (Acanthodactylus spp.) strongly preferred the fragile crust, where they dug 80% and 94% of their burrows, respectively. Land conservationists and managers should take these results into consideration when management plans for natural habitats and nature reserves are evaluated.
Zabalaga, N.A. (2008) -
One of the main concerns in ecology has been identifying and understanding the factors that regulate variation in species distribution. The distribution of Podarcis erhardii (Squamanta: Lacertidae) in Crete is limited to the western part of the islands and some islets in the East. The predicted potential distribution of P. erhardii was modelled by Herkt, who identified that the most important explanatory variable was the multi-temporal Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) of the SPOT 4 Vegetation Instrument. The present study’s aim was to identify how much of the variation in the spatial distribution of P. erhardii could be explained by different environmental variables, and if the spatial structure contributed to the observed patterns in highest populated NDVI classes. Seven vegetation types in the selected NDVI classes were classified with TWINSPAN, and their spatial structure was assessed by partitioning the variation in four fractions: pure environmental, environmental and spatial, pure spatial and undetermined using the Borcard’s method. The spatial pattern of the vegetation types assessed by environmental variables and the geographic coordinates was mostly unpredictable. Partitioning the variation of the probability of occurrence of P. erhardii into environmental (vegetation types) and spatial (geographic coordinates) components explained 75.2% of the overall variation. The inclusion of additional environmental variables increased the explained variation to 82.5%, and suggested that the spatial structure of P. erhardii and the environmental variables have a similar spatial structuring: a humidity gradient identified by actual evapotranspiration. This study identified a possible natural barrier related to a climate gradient that may be constraining P. erhardii’s distribution to the Western Crete. Further research should study the effect of this gradient in the locations where P. erhardii was observed.
Zadhoush, B. & Mousavi, S. & Mousavi, S.J. & Rajabizadeh, M. (2022) -
Kuh-e Bafq Protected Area and Darreh-Anjir Wildlife Refuge are located in Yazd Province, Central Iran. Although reptiles are relatively diverse in this area, little is known regarding their diversity, distribution, and habitat preferences. The present study was carried out from March 2012 to late June 2013. A total of 55 specimens were collected (or observed) and identified, belonging to six families, 14 genera, and 16 species.
Zagar, A. (2008) -
Zagar, A. (2010) -
Zagar, A. (2013) -
Human activities have triggered unprecedented changes in Earth’s climate, generating many concerns about the future of biodiversity. Although temperate regions are warming more rapidly than tropical ones, the heightened sensitivity of tropical species could make them more vulnerable to climate change. Indeed, recent analyses indicated that temperate and subtropical lizards, such as those throughout the Mediterranean region face little risk of extinction in the coming decades. Yet, these analyses involve simplifying assumptions that are patently false for lizards. Relaxing those assumptions leads to a more complex view: the risk of extinction should vary among species within regions, given the capacity for behavioral thermoregulation and physiological acclimation. Detailed models of population dynamics in predicted thermal landscapes can help to identify which species face the greatest risks. I will illustrate this approach using data for a North America species of lizards, Sceloporus undulatus.
Zagar, A. (2014) -
Zagar, A. (2016) -
The understanding of mechanisms of interspecific competition between ecologically similar sympatric species is often lacking from studies predicting the impact of future climate changes. However biotic interactions are known to be key factors influencing the community structure. We studied interspecific competitive mechanisms in two species: the Horvath`s rock lizard (Iberolacerta horvathi [Méhely, 1904]) and the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis [Laurenti, 1768]). At first we examined the potential for competition between studied species by comparing their realised niches in the sympatric area and their morphological, physiological and ecological traits (species` fundamental ecological niches). Altitude contributed the most to the segregation pattern in their distribution. Both species have similar general habitat use and were morphologically similar, except for the head height, which might have reprecursions in segregation in the use of refuge sites. Species were similar in the mean of preferred body temperatures and metabolic rates, but differed in the precision of thermoregulation and the potential metabolic activity. Thus, I. horvathi might have eco-physiological competitive advantages over P. muralis in thermally restrictive (cold) environments. Furthermore, species were found to compete for limited resource (sun-exposed areas) via direct agonistic interactions, indicating an asymmetric interspecific interaction (P. muralis showed to be in adavnatge over I. horvathi). We have also assesed the role of common predators as mediators on the interaction between lizards as prey species. We suggest that “a more cautious” anti-predator behavioural response of I. horvathi might provide direct benefits (higher survival rates) but only in populations where predation pressure was high, otherwise it carries substantial time and thermoregulatory costs. Overall results of the dissertation improved our understanding of interspecific competition between studied sympatric species. Such information may also be used for improving results of modelling predictions of the effect of future climate changes on the distribution of these protected species.
The study reports on the distribution and habitat use of two lizard species in the Kočevsko region: Horvath’s rock lizard and common wall lizard. Extensive sampling across an altitudinal span of 200 to 1,100 m a.s.l. in the study area revealed 62 localities with populations of both or either species. At 11 of these localities (18%) species occurred in syntopy, at 42 locations (68%) only common wall lizards were found, while at 9 locations (14%) only Horvath’s rock lizards were recorded. Both species occurred across the entire altitudinal span but exhibited an opposite pattern of relative abundances and frequencies, which increased with increasing altitude in Horvath’s rock lizard and with decreasing altitude in common wall lizard. The habitat use of common wall lizard was more general (it was found in seven habitat types) than Horvath’s rock lizard that was registered only in three habitat types with rocks.
Zagar, A. & Bitenc, K. & Vrezec, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2015) -
Prey response to different predators is complex and can include diverse antipredatory strategies. In syntopic populations of competing species common predators can play a mediator role thus influence the interaction out-come of prey-species in an indirect way. We studied differences in antipredator response in two competing lizards in syntopy in a multipredator environment. Studied prey species, Iberolacerta horvathi and Podarcis muralis, are likely to compete in syntopic populations limited in size and have similar morphology and ecology but exhibit fine-scale ecophysiological differences. Taking into account interspecific differences in ecophysiology we expected that I. horvathi as a more precise thermoregulator would be less prone to use refuges that represent a thermal cost (are colder than outside). The pattern we found was the opposite of our expectations; I. horvathi escaped at greater distances and remained in the refuge for longer before re-emerging than P. muralis. Second part of the study revealed that both species were able to recognize chemical cues of predator snakes (represented as higher tongue flick rates in the presence of scents of predator snakes in comparison to control). Behavioral responses, which are linked with stressful situations connected to saurophagous snakes, were more frequent and variable in I. horvathi. Overall, antipredator responses seem to be more pronounced in /. horvathi than in P. muralis. While this `more cautious` attitude of I. horvathi should provide higher short-term benefits (higher survival rates), this would hold true only in populations where predation pressure is high. Otherwise it carries substantial time and thermoregulatory costs. For I. horvathi, costs of refuge use should be even higher due to narrower dimensions of their ecophysiological fundamental niche. Such divergences in antipredator behavior are expected to shape the relationships between both species in syntopic populations modulated by common predation pressure and habitat structure.
Zagar, A. & Cafuta, V. & Drasler, K. & Jagar, T. & Krofel, M. & Luznik, M. & Ostanek, E. & Petkovska, V. & Planinc, G. & Sopotnik, M. & Vamberger, M. (2013) -
In this paper we present distributional data for reptiles from different localities in the Western Balkans. During an 11 year period (2002-2012) we collected new data in the frame of spring student research camps organized by the Biology Students’ Society (DŠB). Surveys were conducted by members of the herpetological groups that were mostly biology students. Surveys were located on five islands Dugi otok, Brač, Korčula, Mljet, and Pag, one peninsula Pelješac (Croatia), in the continental area around Kamenovo and Lake Skadar (Montenegro), Dojran Lake (Macedonia), at lower Neretva Delta (Croatia) and around Niš (Serbia). Altogether 34 different reptile species were recorded in the surveys. The species lists comprised of 7-22 different species per single locality. The highest reptile biodiversity was recorded around Dojran Lake in Macedonia.
Zagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2012) -
Zagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2014) -
Zagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Krofel, M. & Luznik, M. & Podnar, M. & Tvrtkovic, N. (2014) -
The article presents results from a reptile survey conducted between 14 and 16 June 2013 in a montane and subalpine belt of the western part of Dinara Mountain in Croatia. The most interesting result is the southernmost finding of Horvath’s Rock lizard (Iberolacerta horvathi). In the survey area we also recorded eight other reptile species: Anguis fragilis, Lacerta agilis, L. viridis sensu lato, Podarcis muralis, P. melissellensis, Coronella austriaca, Zamenis longissimus, and Vipera ammodytes.
Zagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Osojnik, N. & Sillero, N. & Vrezec, A. (2015) -
Solar radiation is in theory an unlimited resource on Earth, but can be locally limited. Heliothermic organisms use solar radiation to elevate their body temperatures, leading them to compete for sun-exposed areas, where interference for limited resource can occur. In coexisting lizard species, interference for basking sites could promote and direct interspecific interactions, which can be related to broader geographic species distribution patterns. We compared two competing lizard species (Podarcis muralis and Iberolacerta horvathi) that occupy sun-exposed gaps in a forested landscape in the Northern Dinaric Mountains (southern Europe). Both species exhibit an altitudinal segregation pattern with a high zone of overlap at middle altitudes. Using experimental thermal gradients, we tested for existence of interference competition. We used adult male lizards in three social contexts, alone as a measure of preferred body temperature (T p) and in conspecific or heterospecific pairs as a measure of realized body temperature (T r). I. horvathi achieved lower T r compared to its T p (alone), while T r of P. muralis did not vary between social contexts. The evidence for interference found in I. horvathi could not be explained by a change in their general movement pattern in a thermal gradient. Our results suggest that interference was a result of direct agonistic interactions, assessed by the frequency of approaches and touches. I. horvathi showed higher interference-susceptibility than P. muralis indicating an asymmetric interaction between the two species. Sunlight (as a resource) is an important factor influencing distribution patterns in assemblages of heliothermic ectotherms where sun-exposed basking sites are limited.
Zagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Vrezec, A. (2013) -
Lacertids are preyed upon by different predators with different foraging strategies, namely, avian predators attack from above, while terrestrial predators use either approaching on open ground or active searching for prey in their hiding places. When active, lacertids are expected to employ different antipredatory behaviours, either crypsis or early predator detection (visually or chemically) followed by escape to the shelter. Syntopic populations of overall similar lacertid species are likely to share predators. However, their predator avoidance tactics might differ. Using standard techniques, we conducted a field test of the escape-recovery tactics for two morphologically and ecologically similar species: Iberolacerta horvathi and Podarcis muralis, occurring in syntopy in the Northern Dinaric region. Adults of both species intrinsically differed in their escape tactics when approached by the researcher simulating a ground predator attack. Specifically, I. horvathi tended to escape at greater distances and spent more time in the shelter before emerging (longer recovery time) regardless the air, surface or refuge temperatures and habitat type. These divergent antipredator strategies involving different predation risks are expected to affect coexistence of these two lizard species.
Žagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Vrezec, A. & Drasler, K. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2016) -
Functional performance linked with individual fitness has a major impact on population survival. In sympatric species where the potential for competition is high due to ecological resemblance, variation in performance may play an important role in facilitating species co-existence. Sexual selection also influences morphology. We aimed to examine the potential role of functional morphology and whole-organism performance in species co-existence patterns. We investigated functional traits of two sympatric species, Iberolacerta horvathi and Podarcis muralis. They exhibited a partial segregation pattern, but were found to co-exist in 18% of all populations in the study area. We captured between 24 and 28 females and males of both species to quantify morphological traits and performance (bite-force and speed). Observed variation in functional traits suggests four major mechanisms probably enhancing co-existence: (i) Head shape in connection with bite-force may determine trophic segregation and (ii) may influence success in agonistic social encounters. Males had higher bite forces than females, and P. muralis exerted higher bite forces than I. horvathi of the same sex. Relatively higher but narrower heads were associated with increased biting performance in P. muralis. (iii) Difference in head height may allow spatial segregation in the use of crevices that is potentially linked with different prey, egg-laying sites and predator avoidance. Iberolacerta horvathi had a flatter head than P. muralis. (iv) Size of female trunk-length may promote the relative size of a clutch and positively influence reproductive effort by clutch. Since higher climbing speed was associated to longer limbs and shorter trunks, females (especially I. horvathi) were the slowest climbers. In conclusion, head dimensions and bite force were observed to be ecomorphological traits potentially involved in promoting co-existence between species. We also found a connection between trunk length and climbing performance. However, its implication for species interactions is more difficult to understand, possibly because strong selection pressures for reproduction are involved.
Zagar, A. & Carretero, M.A. & Vrezec, A. & Drasler, K. & Kaliontzopoulou, A. (2017) -
1. We examined intra- and interspecific variation in functional morphology and whole-organism performance in a sympatric lizard species pair, Iberolacerta horvathi and Podarcis muralis, in the area with a high potential for competition. 2. The biggest variation between species was found in two functional traits, bite force and climbing speed, linked with corresponding morphological traits. 3. The species with larger and taller heads, P. muralis, exhibited correspondingly stronger bite forces. The other species exhibited smaller and flatter head. Both traits may potentially promote segregation between species in trophic niche (stronger bites relate to harder prey) and in refuge use (flatter heads allow using narrower crevices, hence, influencing escaping from common predators). Stronger bites and larger heads also provide one species with a dominant position in interspecific agonistic interactions. 4. Females had longer trunks that impacted negatively on climbing speed, which may lower anti-predator escape abilities of the more trunk-dimorphic species, but positively influence reproductive effort. 5. Our results exemplify how the joint examination of morphological and functional traits of ecologically similar and sympatric species can provide a mechanistic background for understanding their coexistence, namely syntopic populations that are frequent in the study area. 6. The identified roles of functional morphology in this system of sympatric rock lizards support the contribution of functional diversification for the complexity of community structure via coexistence.
Zagar, A. & Dajcman, U. & Megia-Palma, R. (2021) -
Zagar, A. & Gomes, V. & Sillero, N. (2021) -
Zagar, A. & Kos, I. & Vrezec, A. (2013) -
We have surveyed sympatric reptiles in a diverse and preserved montane environment in the Northern Dinaric region (Southern Slovenia) to determine the assemblage structure and assess the patterns of habitat segregation. Altitude and habitat type contributed the most to segregations between the most abundant species. The most similar were species pairs of L. viridis/bilineata and P. muralis, and I. horvathi and V. ammodytes. In snakes, significant segregation patterns have been observed between all species. Among lizards, we have found strong altitudinal segregation between two morphologically and ecologically most similar species; P. muralis was most abundant at low and I. horvathi at higher elevations. This result indicated a potential competitive interaction between these species
Zagar, A. & Krofel, M. & Carretero, M.A. (2016) -
Žagar, A. & Osojnik, N. & Carretero, M.A. & Vrezec, A. (2012) -
Podarcis muralis and Iberolacerta horvathi are sympatric, frequently syntopic, lacertids through the entire range of I. horvathi and very similar in their general body size and shape, as well as in most ecological traits. We morphologically compared adults from the area of sympatry using biometric measurements and performed analyses to investigate their sexual size and shape dimorphism. A total of 34 males and 24 females of I. horvathi, and 25 males and 23 females of P. muralis, all adult individuals, were measured. Both species showed sexual size dimorphism with females being longer (snout-vent length, SVL) than males. After SVL correction (ANCOVA), head width, length and height and mass showed to be sexually dimorphic in both species. Males carry relatively wider, longer and higher heads and were heavier than conspecific females. I. horvathi heads were more flattened than those of P. muralis and P. muralis were heavier than I. horvathi. Both species displayed the same pattern of sexual dimorphism regarding body size, head size and shape not only in direction but also in magnitude. All results confirm that both species are very similar in studied biometric characters and, together with their ecological similarities, these suggest in absence of other factors they are likely to interact when living together.
Zagar, A. & Osojnik, N. & Vrezec, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Species interactions are complex processes derived from a combination of organisms’ physiological predispositions and their behavioural and ecological traits combined with their spatial and temporal distribution. Understanding interspeciic interactions between two lacertid species should include a multi-level approach. The focus of individual studies should interfere with each other, but the irst step should be done separately. Podarcis muralis and Iberolacerta horvathi are sympatric in almost whole range of I. horvathi’s distribution (endemic to Southern Alps in NE Italy, S Austria and NW Slovenia and Dinaric Mountains in Slovenia and Croatia) and display overall similarity in morphometric, coloration and ecological characteristics. I. horvathi is more abundant at higher altitudes whereas P. muralis shows the opposite trend, suggesting competitive exclusion pattern. One way to understand biological processes of lacertid species on a mechanistic level is to preform experiments investigating preferred body temperatures (Tp), since the use of best basking sites could be source of competition in ectothermic reptiles. For two consecutive years we performed a comparative analysis of Tp with experiments in laboratory thermo gradients (20 -50°C; measurements at 11 hourly intervals) with specimens of both sympatric species to compare interspeciic variation. I. horvathi selected higher Tps than P. muralis but mainly in spring and in the afternoon, in summer and early morning being more similar. P. muralis had a broader range of Tp than I. horvathi, suggesting it to be more eurythermic. Secondly, we investigated if the presence of conspeciic or heterospeciic male inluences the males’ Tp of both species to ind out if inference interactions inluence Tp. Preliminary results show that the inluence of presence of con- or hetero-speciic males on Tp was only evident in I. horvathi, but not in P. muralis.
Zagar, A. & Planinc, G. & Krofel, M. (2007) -
A detailed survey of the publications and main Slovenian collections showed that only limited information on the distribution of Carcharodus lavatherae, Pyrgus carthami, and Pyrgus serratulae is available. Within the framework of the Slovenian butterfly atlas survey, several additional records have been gathered during the past two decades. C. lavatherae was found in four separate areas, but the knowledge about its threat status and habitat preference is still insufficient due to the scarcity of the encounters. The distribution of Pyrgus carthami in Slovenia is much more limited than considered by previous authors. All confirmed records are confined to southwest Slovenia, where the main strongholds are the south facing slopes north of the Vipava valley and western part of the Kras plateau. The large number of unpublished records is somewhat masking the actual decline of the species in Slovenia. P. serratulae is the most enigmatic of the three species with numerous published records but no vouchers that could verify its presence in Slovenia. The discovery of the species in the Poček military area is the first confirmed observation in Slovenia, putting this species right to the top of the conservation priorities in butterflies.
Žagar, A. & Plsnic, G. & Krofel, M. (2008) -
Horvath`s Rock Lizard is a relict endemic species of Dinaric-East Alpine mountain range. It occurs in western Croatia, western Slovenia, north-eastern Italy, western Austria and southern Germany. It is one of the least known species of lacertids in Slovenia. Previously it had been assumed that its distribution is limited to high mountainous regions of Julian Alps, Trnovski gozd and Mt. Snežnik above 650 m a.s.l. Only in the recent years specimens have been found also outside this range in the Dinaric Mountains. New finds were made in three regions of Slovenia, all located in Dinaric range in southern Slovenia. All individual lacertids were captured or approached to a close distance and determined by the position of supranasal, frontonasal and rostral scales, according to determination keys. In July 2006 a survey on the distribution of reptiles was made in Notranjsko podolje region, where we registered 23 individuals of Horvath’s Rock Lizard at 6 localities. We found them on rocky ground in karstic terrain, on walls of ruins and in a dry riverbed. The altitude of the localities ranged from 458 to 640 m. During a reptile survey in Kočevje region from April to August 2007, new finds of I. horvathi were discovered at 17 localities, where we found 18 individuals. They were located on rocky cliffs in karstic terrain and rocky road banks in a mixed Dinaric forest (Omphalodo-Fagetum). The altitude of the localities ranged from 462 to 1066 m. Since 2006 there have been several observations of Horvath’s Rock lizards also at one locality in Iški Vintgar at 370 m on rocky walls in a gorge. At more than one location we captured both Horvath’s Rock Lizard and Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) on the same wall or rocky ground. This confirms the fact that both species can occur syntopic at the same localities. Due to similarities in coloration and habitat preferences of I. horvathi and P. muralis, it is usually necessary to catch an individual to determine the species. As it was thought in the past that in Slovenia Horvath’s Rock Lizard is limited to high regions of the Alps and Dinaric Mts., this species was often not considered an option, when determining lizards in the lower regions of Dinaric range. Therefore some of the finds recorded in the past as P. muralis might actually be I. horvathi. We recommend that additional care should be taken, when determining the small lacertids and to inspect the position of snout scales whenever possible. New data presented here suggest that Horvath’s Rock Lizard is much more widespread throughout the Dinaric range in Slovenia than previously believed. Additional surveys are needed to get a better picture on the distribution of this endemic species and to determine its population status in Slovenia.
Zagar, A. & Simcic, T. & Carretero, M.A. & Dajcman, U. & Megia-Palma, R. (2022) -
Studies which quantify the influence of abiotic factors on physiological variation are paramount to comprehend organismal responses to diverse environments. We studied three physiological aspects of metabolism in two sympatric and ecologically similar European lizard species, Podarcis muralis and Iberolacerta horvathi, across an 830-m elevational gradient. We collected blood samples and tail tips from adult lizards, which were analyzed for parasitemia, hemoglobin concentration, potential metabolic activity and catalase activity. Hemoglobin concentration was higher in males than females and it increased across elevation in one of the studied species – P. muralis. Parasitemia was not an important predictor of the variation in hemoglobin concentration, which suggests that blood parasites do not constraint the aerobic capacity of the lizards. On the other hand, catalase activity reflected increased antioxidant activity in the presence of higher parasitemia, possibly acting as an adaptive mechanism to reduce oxidative stress during immune activation. Potential metabolic activity, as a proxy for maximum respiratory enzymatic capacity, did not differ between species or sexes nor was it affected by elevation or levels of parasitemia. The results provide insight into the relationships between physiological, biotic, and environmental traits in sympatric lizards.
Žagar, A. & Simčič, T. & Carretero, M.A. & Vrezec, A. (2015) -
Sympatric species from the same ecological guild, that exhibit partial altitudinal segregation, can potentially interact in areas of syntopic occurrence. Besides general species` ecology, physiology can provide important answers about species interactions reflected in altitudinal patterns. Lizards Podarcis muralis and Iberolacerta horvathi exhibit partial altitudinal segregation, while they strongly resemble in overall morphology and ecology (diet, daily and seasonal activity pattern), but show certain degree of physiological dissimilarity. They have similar mean preferred body temperatures and patterns of seasonal and daily variations but differ in the magnitude of seasonal variation. Since an ectotherm metabolism is highly dependent on body temperature, thermoregulation is expected to directly affect their metabolism. We compared metabolic rates of adult males from an area of sympatry, measured under two temperature regimes (20 °C and 28 °C). Both species increased metabolic rates with temperature in a similar pattern. We also compared electron transport activity from tail tissues which provide values of species` potential metabolic activity (enzymatic capacity). Species clearly differed in potential metabolic activity; I. horvathi attained higher values than P. muralis. No difference was detected in how species exploited this potential (calculated from the ratio of electron transport activity and metabolic rates). However, we observed higher potential metabolic activity I. horvathi which together with the ability to thermoregulate more precisely could represent a higher competitive advantage over P. muralis in thermally more restrictive environments such as higher altitudes. Understanding of metabolism seems to provide valuable information for understanding recent distributional patterns as well as species interactions.
Žagar, A. & Trilar, T. & Carretero, M.A. (2011) -
Zagar, A. & Vrezec, A. & Carretero, M.A. (2017) -
Zahn, A. (2014) -
Zahn, A. (2017) -
Stones or branches are often piled up in connection with the creation of habitats for sand lizards (Lacerta agilis), namely as places for the reptiles to bask in the sun. The study at hand, based on data gathered in 2016, emphasizes that sand lizards favour piles of branches over stone ones, presumably because the protruding branches provide them better cover. Creating piles of branches at multiple locations is an inexpensive way of fostering sand lizards.
Zahn, A. & Hansbauer, G. (2019) -
Zahn, A. & Späth, J. (2021) -
Aktuelle Beobachtungen zeigen, dass Zauneidechsen Mähguthaufen sowie Mähgut-Auftrags bereiche als Aufenthaltsort nutzen. Selbiges gilt für Schnittguthaufen und Stämme. Durch den Abtransport der Haufen werden die Tiere gefährdet. Das Risiko, dass Tiere getötet und der Jungtierbestand reduziert wird, ist artenschutzrechtlich relevant. Achten Sie daher bitte auf geeignete Lagerplätze und auf die passende Jahres- und Tageszeit sowie Witterung, wenn Sie das Material abtransportieren.
Zahn, A. & Späth, J. & Seitz, D. & Pellkofer, B. (2022) -
Durch Beweidung, selbst durch Extensivbeweidung zur Landschaftspflege, können die Habitate von Reptilien wie der Zauneidechse (Lacerta agilis) erheblich geschädigt werden. Bei Berücksichtigung der Ansprüche der Zauneidechse, lassen sich Extensivweiden jedoch zu wertvollen Eidechsenlebensräumen entwickeln. Am Beispiel dreier Extensivweiden in Südbayern wird aufgezeigt, unter welchen Bedingungen eine Beweidung für Zauneidechsen-Populationen günstig ist und welchen Einfluss weitere Faktoren, wie die Geländeoberfläche, die Vegetation und die Bodenfeuchte haben. Vorteilhaft für Zauneidechsen sind extensive Standweiden mit vielen Strukturen wie Reptilienhaufen aus Ästen und Steinen. Dabei muss die Besatzdichte der Weidetiere so an die Wüchsigkeit der jeweiligen Vegetation angepasst werden, dass am Ende der Weidesaison im Umfeld dieser Reptilienhaufen noch ausgedehnte Bereiche mit halbhohen, nicht oder wenig abgefressenen Gräsern und Hochstauden vorhanden sind. Unebenes Gelände begünstigt Ausbildung und Erhalt eines für Zauneidechsen günstigen Strukturmosaiks. Die Untersuchungsergebnisse zur Nutzung verschiedener Lebensraumstrukturen durch Zauneidechsen werden auch hinsichtlich der Gestaltung und Pflege von Ausgleichsflächen diskutiert.
Zajitschek, S.R.K. & Zajitschek, F. & Clobert, J. (2012) -
Background: Movement behaviour can be influenced by a multitude of biotic and abiotic factors. Here, we investigate the speed of movement in relation to environmental and individual phenotypic properties in subadult common lizards (Lacerta vivipara). We aim to disentangle the importance of substrate, cover, humidity, basking opportunity and individual phenotype on moving tendencies in 12 treatment combinations, at which each lizard was tested. Results: We find that movement behaviour depends on the starting conditions, the physical properties of the dispersal corridor, and on the individuals’ phenotype. Specifically, the presence of cover and substrate providing suitable traction in the corridor had positive effects on individual movement decisions. Additionally, we find high phenotypic variation in the propensity to move dependent on the presence of cover. Individual back patterns also strongly affected movement decisions in interaction with the physical properties of the dispersal corridor. Conclusions: Our results highlight the importance of understanding the habitat resistance for movement patterns, with humid habitats with covering vegetation providing the best conditions to initiate movement in the common lizard. In addition, population effects, differences in back pattern phenotype and movement behaviour.
Zajitschek, S.R.K. & Zajitschek, F. & Miles, D.B. & Clobert, J. (2012) -
Phenotypic coloration in animals is often expected to have a signalling function, but it may also evolve as a correlated trait that reflects life-history strategy, social strategy, or ecological divergence. Wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) exhibit substantial colour variation, with both males and females being red, white, yellow, or a mixture of these colours. However, the biological significance of these colour morphs remains unknown. Here we investigate the relationship between coloration and temperature-dependent locomotor performance in an attempt to identify the adaptive significance of colour variation in this species. We investigate the maximum sprint speed of males and females of each of these colour morphs across seven different temperatures, using general additive mixed models (GAMMs). We predicted that the different sexes and colour phenotypes would exhibit differences in sprint speed performance, potentially indicating a correlation between coloration and adaptation into different ecological niches. We found no difference in performance of the discrete colour morphs, but amongst individuals that exhibited red coloration, those with a greater percentage of red were slower than those with less red coloration. This suggests a trade-off between red coloration and high sprint performance in this species. Furthermore, larger animals performed better, independent of colour and sex. Finally, we found no relative or absolute difference between males and females in their sprint performance. Taken together, our results suggest that there is no sex-specific or colour morph-specific differentiation in the use of microhabitats in this species
Zakany, S. & Smirnov, S. & Milinkovitch, M.C. (2022) -
The ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus) exhibits an intricate skin color pattern made of monoc-hromatic black and green skin scales, whose dynamics of color flipping are known to be well modeled by a stochastic cellular automaton. We show that the late-time probability distribution of the pattern corresponds to the canonical probability distribution of the antiferromagnetic Ising model and can be generated by dynamics different from the commonly-used Glauber. We comment on skin scale patterns generated by the Ising model on the triangular lattice in the low-temperature limit.
Zakharov, V.M. (1981) -
Zakharov, V.M. & Baranov, A.S. & Valetsky, A.V. (1982) -
Zakharov, V.M. & Zhdanova, N.P. & Trofimov, I.E. (2022) -
Variation of the meristic characteristics of pholidosis in the sand lizard, Lacerta agilis, was studied both in laboratory experiments and in natural populations. The total phenotypic variability was assessed by the variation of the sum of the number of scales on the left and on the right sides of the body (l + r), while the measure of developmental stability, providing insight into the degree of fluctuating asymmetry, or developmental variability, was assessed by the variation of the difference in the character values on the left and on the right (l − r). Experimental incubation of eggs at different temperatures demonstrates that the minimal level of both kinds of variability corresponds to a certain temperature, which can be characterized as an optimal one, increasing both with an increase and with a decrease in the temperature from this regime. The data demonstrate the crucial role of the temperature impact for the phenotypic variation under study. An increase in the level of developmental variability to the north and to the south from the center part of the species range, in the absence of an obvious trend in geographic variation of the level of total phenotypic variability, assumes an increase in the role of developmental variability in the observed phenotypic diversity at the periphery of the species range. The results obtained indicate the importance of a population phenogenetic approach, based on the developmental stability study in natural populations, to provide certain information supposing the possible nature of phenotypic diversity in a species range
Zakkak, S. & Halley, J.M. & Akriotis, T. & Kati, V. (2015) -
Agricultural land abandonment is recognized as one of the main environmental drivers in Southern Europe, affecting ecological communities. Lizards, as ectothermic species with low dispersal capacity, are particularly prone to the threats associated with land use changes. We investigated the effect of land abandonment on lizards in a remote mountainous area in Greece, using line transect sampling, in 20 randomly selected sites [1 km × 1 km], along a four grade abandonment gradient in terms of forest encroachment. We recorded four species: Algyroides nigropunctatus, Lacerta viridis/ trilineata, Podarcis tauricus and Podarcis muralis, the latter being the most abundant. Our results did not provide evidence for a significant effect of forest encroachment or grazing on lizard diversity, given the dominance of P. muralis, the availability of all microhabitat types along the gradient and the low grazing intensity in the study area. Environmental parameters at the macrohabitat scale did not prove determinant for habitat variance, but microhabitat analysis showed a clear preference of P. muralis to bare ground. Despite the non-significant effects of land abandonment on lizard diversity, the dominance of P. muralis tends to indicate a lizard community shift towards species inhabiting forested habitats. The preservation of open microhabitats, such as bare land, is considered of great importance for promoting high levels of lizard diversity, as their loss would affect even species currently widespread in forested ecosystems. Low intensity grazing, as well as the enhancement of wild ungulate populations in abandoned areas, can contribute to halting forest encroachment and maintaining the required habitat heterogeneity.
Zaldívar Ezquerro, C. (1991) -
Zaldivar Ezquerro, C. (2006) -
Zaldivar, C. & Verdú, J. & Irastorza, M.T. (1989) -
Záleský, M. (1935) -
Zamfirescu, S. & Strugariu, A. & Dincá, P.C. & Gherghel, I. (2016) -
Amphibians and reptiles are among the most threatened animal species in Europe. Because of their legal conservation status, amphibians and reptiles may act as umbrella and flagship species in certain areas. The Rarău-Giumalău Natura 2000 site (ROSCI 0212) is such an area that, despite ist conservation status, is still exposed to human activities alterations. In addition, the standard data form of the site mentions only three amphibian species, which is notably below the herpetofauna diversity of the region. Therefore, the aim of this study is to update the existing knowledge on the local herpetofauna. To this end, herpetological field surveys were conducted in the area between May– September, 2015, ten species being identified, as follows: six amphibians (Salamandra salamandra, Lissotriton montandoni, Ichthyosaura alpestris, Bombina variegata, Bufo bufo and Rana temporaria) and four reptiles (Anguis colchica, Lacerta agilis, Zootoca vivipara and Vipera berus). Species distribution is influenced by human activities, among which grazing seems to be the most important. The diversity of herpetofauna is not evenly distributed between the perimeters of the site. The Giumalău perimeter has only six species probably because of a lower habitat diversity compared to the Rarău perimeter. Nine of the identified species are protected by European and national regulations, whereas the standard data form of the site lists only two of them, and one not confirmed by our study. Therefore, the standard data form, a tool for protective management, does not reflect the real situation of the herpetofauna of the site and for this reason, it should be updated.
Zamora Salmerón, J.F. (1997) -
Zamora-Camacho, F.J. (2015) -
This thesis studies the effect of elevation on thermoregulation, sprint speed, immune system, and their relationships, in the large Psammodromus, Psammodromus algirus, in six populations uniformly distributed from 300 to 2500 meters above the sea level in Sierra Nevada (SE Spain). We found that lizard phenology was similar along the gradient, by using standardized transects throughout the whole activity period. However, contrasting with mid and low elevation populations, activity in high populations peaked at the beginning of the activity period, probably due to limitations in the window of time for reproduction. Studies on field and thermal-gradient selected body temperatures showed that this lizard was thermally conservative in this system. Despite differences in environmental temperature, lizards could thermoregulate effectively selecting different microhabitats at different times of the day. Nonetheless, selected body temperature was always higher than field body temperature, which suggests that other factors could be constraining lizard thermoregulation ability. In fact, field body temperature was limited by environmental temperature in the highest populations. Postpartum females selected higher temperatures, which probably allows them to improve their body condition after the reproductive investment. A study on variation in body size and thermal exchange rates showed that high-elevation lizards were larger, according to Bergmman’s clines, which predict larger body size in cold habitats, diminishing heat loss by a decrease in the body surface/volume ratio. Moreover, highland lizards, the largest, showed higher thermal inertia. On the other hand, an immune challenge only diminished selected body temperature in lizards from mid and low populations, which probably allows them to save energy, but did not affect high-elevation lizards, possibly because the cost of no-thermoregulation in a thermally-limiting habitat outweigh those of thermoregulation. Also, sprint speed was positively correlated with limb length, and negatively with body mass, so fat accumulation seems to be traded-off with the ability of fleeing from predators. However, gravid females were not slower than non-gravid females. Nevertheless, males, more conspicuous to predators, were faster than females. Elevation had no effect on sprint speed. As for the effect of an immune challenge on sprint speed, only males were affected, diminishing their speed, probably because they invest more energy than females in sprint speed. Finally, sprint speed was faster at optimal than at suboptimal body temperatures for lizards from all elevations, suggesting that thermal preferences and thermal dependence of sprint performance are coadapted. On the other hand, gravid females, which were not slower than non-gravid females at optimal body temperatures, were indeed at suboptimal body temperatures. These results confirm that sprint speed is highly conservative in elevation.
Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Reguera, S. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2014) -
Bergmann’s Rule predicts larger body sizes in colder habitats, increasing organisms’ ability to conserve heat. Originally formulated for endotherms, it is controversial whether Bergmann’s Rule may be applicable to ectotherms, given that larger ectotherms show diminished capacity for heating up. We predict that Bergmann’s Rule will be applicable to ectotherms when the benefits of a higher conservation of heat due to a larger body size overcompensate for decreased capacity to heating up. We test this hypothesis in the lizard Psammodromus algirus, which shows increased body size with elevation in Sierra Nevada (SE Spain). We measured heating and cooling rates of lizards from different elevations (from 300 to 2500 m above sea level) under controlled conditions. We found no significant differences in the heating rate along an elevational gradient. However, the cooling rate diminished with elevation and body size: highland lizards, with larger masses, have a higher thermal inertia for cooling, which allows them to maintain heat for more time and keep a high body temperature despite the lower thermal availability. Consequently, the net gaining of heat increased with elevation and body size. This study highlights that the heat conservation mechanism for explaining Bergmann’s Rule works and is applicable to ectotherms, depending on the thermal benefits and costs associated with larger body sizes.
Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Reguera, S. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2015) -
Tail autotomy is an antipredatory defense that allows lizards to escape predator attacks by shedding their tails. While the benefits of preserving life are indisputable, tail loss implies a number of physiological, social, reproductive and even metabolic costs derived from tail regeneration and reduced motility. In addition, predation risk is increased in lizards with autotomized tails. Metabolic rates increase with body temperature, which in ectotherms depends on external heat sources. Ectotherm thermoregulation is costly in terms of time consumption and exposure to predators, this cost depending on habitat thermal quality. In this work, we seek to disentangle the effects of tail autotomy on field and selected body temperature of an accurately thermoregulating lizard Psammodromus algirus in different thermal environments along a 2200-m elevational gradient. We test two non-mutually exclusive hypotheses. According to a physiological hypothesis, we expect lizards with autotomized tails to show higher body temperatures that allow them to regenerate lost tissues faster, at least when the thermal environment is not limiting (at mid and low elevations). By contrast, according to an ethological hypothesis, we expect lizards with autotomized tails to avoid exposure to predators by reducing thermoregulation time, thus showing lower temperatures than lizards with non-autotomized tails. However, we found that the tail state did not significantly affect lizard field or selected body temperatures. On the one hand, a warmer thermal optimum could imply greater exposure to predators during basking, making motility-impaired lizards with autotomized tails more vulnerable, which could explain why the physiological hypothesis of autotomy thermal effect does not apply. On the other hand, lower body temperatures could be physiologically costly for lizards, which, together with the other costs resulting from tail autotomy, could jeopardize lizard fitness. Therefore, both hypotheses were not supported.
Achieving optimal body temperature maximizes animal fitness. Since ambient temperature may limit ectotherm thermal performance, it can be constrained in too cold or hot environments. In this sense, elevational gradients encompass contrasting thermal environments. In thermally pauperized elevations, ectotherms may either show adaptations or suboptimal body temperatures. Also, reproductive condition may affect thermal needs. Herein, we examined different thermal ecology and physiology capabilities of the lizard Psammodromus algirus along a 2200-m elevational gradient. We measured field (Tb) and laboratory-preferred (Tpref) body temperatures of lizards with different reproductive conditions, as well as ambient (Ta) and copper-model operative temperature (Te), which we used to determine thermal quality of the habitat (de), accuracy (db), and effectiveness of thermoregulation (de–db) indexes. We detected no Tb trend in elevation, while Ta constrained Tb only at high elevations. Moreover, while Ta decreased more than 7 °C with elevation, Tpref dropped only 0.6 °C, although significantly. Notably, low-elevation lizards faced excess temperature (Te > Tpref). Notably, de was best at middle elevations, followed by high elevations, and poorest at low elevations. Nonetheless, regarding microhabitat, high-elevation de was more suitable in sun-exposed microhabitats, which may increase exposition to predators, and at midday, which may limit daily activity. As for gender, db and de–db were better in females than in males. In conclusion, P. algirus seems capable to face a wide thermal range, which probably contributes to its extensive corology and makes it adaptable to climate changes.
Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Reguera, S. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2016) -
Immunocompetence benefits animal fitness by combating pathogens, but also entails some costs. One of its main components is fever, which in ectotherms involves two main types of costs: energy expenditure and predation risk. Whenever those costs of fever outweigh its benefits, ectotherms are expected not to develop fever, or even to show hypothermia, reducing costs of thermoregulation and diverting the energy saved to other components of the immune system. Environmental thermal quality, and therefore the thermoregulation cost/benefit balance, varies geographically. Hence, we hypothesize that, in alpine habitats, immune-challenged ectotherms should show no thermal response, given that (1) hypothermia would be very costly, as the temporal window for reproduction is extremely small, and (2) fever would have a prohibitive cost, as heat acquisition is limited in such habitat. However, in temperate habitats, immune-challenged ectotherms might show a febrile response, due to lower cost/benefit balance as a consequence of a more suitable thermal environment. We tested this hypothesis in Psammodromus algirus lizards from Sierra Nevada (SE Spain), by testing body temperature preferred by alpine and non-alpine lizards, before and after activating their immune system with a typical innocuous pyrogen. Surprisingly, non-alpine lizards responded to immune challenge by decreasing preferential body-temperature, presumably allowing them to save energy and reduce exposure to predators. On the contrary, as predicted, immune-challenged alpine lizards maintained their body-temperature preferences. These results match with increased costs of no thermoregulation with elevation, due to the reduced window of time for reproduction in alpine environment.
Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Reguera, S. & Moreno-Rueda, G. & Pleguezuelos, J.M. (2013) -
Ectothermy in reptiles involves strong environmental temperature dependence to maintain body temperature. High mountains are extreme habitats which, because of their marked temperature decrease with altitude, impose difficulties for reptile thermoregulation, as the number of optimum-temperature days diminish in altitude. We studied the activity patterns of the lizard Psammodromus algirus, which has a wide altitudinal distribution, at six sampling stations that spanned an altitudinal range from 300 to 2500 m asl in Sierra Nevada (SE Iberian Peninsula). We performed censuses of the species during the seasonal and daily activity period, and measured lizard body temperature and environmental temperature in the six sampling plots along the altitude gradient. The body temperature of the lizards remained closely the same even though environmental temperature decreased around 9°C along that gradient. Seasonal activity peaked at the beginning of the activity period in highlands, but in the middle of the season in middle and lowland regions. However, newborns appeared in the field almost at the same time along the altitude gradient. We suggest that the thermoregulatory strategies of the lizards must vary along this altitudinal gradient, permitting lizards to keep their body temperature close to a very similar optimum and thus, develop very similar circa-annual activity patterns.
Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Reguera, S. & Rubino-Hispan, M.V. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2014) -
Most animals rely on their escape speed to flee from predators. Here, we test several hypotheses on the evolution of escape speed in the lizard Psammodromus algirus. We test that: (1) Longer limbs should improve speed sprint. (2) Heavier lizards should be impaired regarding their sprint speed ability, suggesting a trade-off between fat storage and escape capability. (3) Males should achieve faster speeds due to their higher exposure to predators. (4) Gravid females, with increased body mass, should perform lower speed than non-gravid females. And (5) there are inter-population differences in sprint speed across an elevational gradient. We measured lizards sprint speed in a lineal raceway in the laboratory, filming races in standardized conditions and then calculating their maximal speed. We found that hind limb length greatly determined maximal sprint speed, lizards with longer limbs being faster. In parallel, higher body masses reduced maximal speed, which points to a trade-off between fat storage and escaping capability. Sexual differences also arose, as males were faster than females, as a consequence of males having longer limbs. Regarding females, gravidity did not impair maximal sprint speed, suggesting adaptations which compensate for the increased body mass. Finally, we found no elevational trend in both limbs length and sprint speed. In any case, this study suggests that selection on escape capacity may cast morphological evolution, and affect other life-history traits, such as fat storage and reproduction.
Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Reguera, S. & Rubino-Hispán, M.V. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2014) -
Predators and pathogens can diminish organisms’ fitness, and consequently natural selection favors antipredatory and antiparasitic strategies. Nevertheless, as both kinds of strategies consume resources, animals cannot maximize investment in both strategies simultaneously, which should lead to trade-offs between the two. Accordingly, we hypothesize that there is a trade-off between sprint capacity and immune response, which are among the most important antipredatory and antiparasitic strategies, respectively, of many animals. Consequently, we predict that animals eliciting an immune response should reduce their sprint capacity. We experimentally tested this prediction in the lizard Psammodromus algirus. A group of lizards was inoculated with the antigen LPS (lipopolysaccharide of the cell wall of Escherichia coli), which activates the immune system, whereas the other group (control) was inoculated with phosphate buffer, which has no physiological effect. Before and after the inoculations, we filmed sprint capacity of lizards, estimating the maximal sprint speed. Males were faster than females before the activation of their immune system. Nonetheless, males’ sprint speed diminished after the inoculation of LPS, whereas females’ did not. Therefore, our results support the hypothesis of a trade-off between sprint speed and immune response in males. Consequently, male lizards combating a pathogen may suffer either higher risk of predation, or reduced fitness if they avoid this risk by spending more time in shelter.
Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Rubino-Hispán, M.V. & Reguera, S. & Moreno-Rueda, G. (2016) -
Tail autotomy is a widespread antipredator strategy among lizards, which consists of the capability of willingly detaching a portion of the tail in order to escape predator attacks. Nonetheless, tail autotomy has a number of costs, including reduced sprint speed which increases predation risk. However, lizards regenerate the tail following autotomy, although a regenerated tail is usually shorter and histologically different from the original tail. In the present work, we assess the effect of tail regeneration on sprint speed by comparing Psammodromus algirus lizards with intact and regenerated tails under controlled laboratory conditions. We found that sprint speed was similar in lizards with intact and regenerated tails. Therefore, tail regeneration following autotomy effectively restored sprint speed, although regenerated tails were shorter than intact ones. Thus, regenerating shorter tails could diminish anabolic costs with no negative consequences on flight ability.
Zamora-Camacho, F.J. & Rubino-Hispán, M.V. & Reguera, S. & Morenu-Rueda, G. (2015) -
Sprint speed has a capital relevance in most animals’ fitness, mainly for fleeing from predators. Sprint performance is maximal within a certain range of body temperatures in ectotherms, whose thermal upkeep relies on exogenous thermal sources. Ectotherms can respond to diverse thermal environments either by shifting their thermal preferences or maintaining them through different adaptive mechanisms. Here, we tested whether maximum sprint speed of a lizard that shows conservative thermal ecology along a 2200-meter elevational gradient differs with body temperature in lizards from different elevations. Lizards ran faster at optimum than at suboptimum body temperature. Notably, high-elevation lizards were not faster than mid- and low-elevation lizards at suboptimum body temperature, despite their low-quality thermal environment. This result suggests that both preferred body temperature and thermal dependence of speed performance are co-adapted along the elevational gradient. High-elevation lizards display a number of thermoregulatory strategies that allow them to achieve high optimum body temperatures in a low thermal-quality habitat and thus maximize speed performance. As for reproductive condition, we did not find any effect of it on sprint speed, or any significant interaction with elevation or body temperature. However, strikingly, gravid females were significantly slower than males and non-gravid females at suboptimum temperature, but performed similarly well at optimal temperature.
Zander, A. (1894) -
Zander, A. (1895) -
Zang, Wilhelm (1901) -
Zangl, L. & Daill, D. & Schweiger, S. & Gassner, G. & Koblmüller, S. (2020) -
In the last few years, DNA barcoding became an established method for species identification in biodiversity inventories and monitoring studies. Such studies depend on the access to a comprehensive reference data base, covering all relevant taxa. Here we present a comprehensive DNA barcode inventory of all amphibian and reptile species native to Austria, except for the putatively extinct Vipera ursinii rakosiensis and Lissotriton helveticus, which has been only recently reported for the very western edge of Austria. A total of 194 DNA barcodes were generated in the framework of the Austrian Barcode of Life (ABOL) initiative. Species identification via DNA barcodes was successful for most species, except for the hybridogenetic species complex of water frogs (Pelophylax spp.) and the crested newts (Triturus spp.), in areas of sympatry. However, DNA barcoding also proved powerful in detecting deep conspecific lineages, e.g. within Natrix natrix or the wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), resulting in more than one Barcode Index Number (BIN) per species. Moreover, DNA barcodes revealed the presence of Natrix helvetica, which has been elevated to species level only recently, and genetic signatures of the Italian water frog Pelophylax bergeri in Western Austria for the first time. Comparison to previously published DNA barcoding data of European amphibians and reptiles corroborated the results of the Austrian data but also revealed certain peculiarities, underlining the particular strengths and in the case of the genus Pelophylax also the limitations of DNA barcoding. Consequently, DNA barcoding is not only powerful for species identification of all life stages of most Austrian amphibian and reptile species, but also for the detection of new species, the monitoring of gene flow or the presence of alien populations and/or species. Thus, DNA barcoding and the data generated in this study may serve both scientific and national or even transnational conservation purposes.
Zanno, C. (1974) -
Zapata, A. & Cooper, E.L. & Lecerta, J. (1981) -
Zapata, A. & Leceta, J. & Villena, A. (1981) -
The ultrastructure of hemopoietic bone marrow of the Spanish lizard, Lacerta hispanica, has been studied for the first time. The organ consists of a stroma formed by venous sinuses and reticular cells. Erythropoiesis takes place in the lumen of blood vessels, while granulopoiesis is extravascular. Pluripotent stem cells are structurally differentiated into erythrocytes and granulocytes. Two types of granulocytes, heterophils and acidophils, have been found, and a third granular cell type is tentatively identified as granular leukocyte. Remarkably, plasmacytopoiesis occurs in the bone marrow of Lacerta hispanica. The possible functional significance of these results is discussed with emphasis on their importance for the reptilian immune system.
Zapatero, C. & Castaño, C. & Zapatero, L.M. (1999) -
Pharyngodonid nematodes (Oxyuroidea) belonging to the genus Alaeuris Thapar, 1925, were collected from the posterior gut of Gallotia stehlini (Lacertidae) from Grand Canary Island. Two species Alaeuris stehlini n. sp. and Alaeuris numidica canariensis n. ssp. were identified. The new species is described in which the long thin males are characterized by narrow caudal alae, a rounded first pair of adanal papillae non pedunculate, the second pair attached and elongate, the three pair teated; a short narrow V plate and a relatively long caudal appendage. The females are also long and thin with a slightly salient vulva, a conical pointed caudal appendage, oesophageal length approximately one third of body, excretory pore below the oesophageal bulb. The new subspecies most closely resembles Alaeuris numidica numidica. (Seurat, 1918) Petter, 1966 and Alaeuris numidica madagascariensis Petter, 1966.
Zara, E. (2009) -
Zaremba, R. (1986) -
Zarevsky, S.T. (1918) -
Zari, T.A. (1996) -
1. 1. The standard metabolic rate (SMR) of Acanthodactylus boskianus was determined at 20, 25, 30 and 35°C during winter and summer acclimatization, using constant pressure manometric respirometers. 2. 2. Values for the exponent b of body mass in relation to metabolic rate ranged from 0.50 to 0.63. 3. 3. Winter-acclimatized lizards of various body sizes had significantly higher SMRs than summer-acclimatized lizards at tested temperatures. 4. 4. The seasonal differences in metabolic rate may represent a useful adaptation, enabling A. boskianus to maintain activity during the moderate winter, and to conserve energy and possibly also water during the hot summer.
Zari, T.A. (1997) -
Zarudny, N. (1891) -
Zaug, R. (1902) -
Zaug, R. (1903) -
Zauner, J. (2002) -
Zauner, J. (2013) -
During two journeys from 27.04. – 07.05.2008 and from 21.04. – 27.04.2012, I visited several parts pf Spain together with some friends of mine. We focused on the lizards of the Iberiasn Peninsula. Specifically, we wanted to make some beautiful pictures of the Ocellated Lizatrds Timon lepidus and Timon nevadensis, which unfortunately did not always succeed on the first trip. In the following article, I briefly present the lizards of the family Lacertidae that were found during the two journeys together with some of their localities.
Zauner, J. (2015) -
Vom 10.05. bis 17.05.2014 sucht ich gemeinsam mit befreundeten Eidechsenhaltern in ausgewählten Landschaften Sdfrankreichs nach dort vorkommenden Lacertiden. Die Biotope wurden anhand ihrer Attraktivität in bezug auf Vegetation, Feuchtigkeit und auch der Farbe des Untergrundes gewählt und hatten nicht zwingend etwas mit bekannten oder beschriebene Eidechsenfundorten zu tun. Timon lepidus lepidus, Lacerta bilineata bilineata und Podarcis muralis brongniardii konntern wir in unterschiedlichen Individuendichten beobachten und fotografieren. Die aufgesuchten Lebensräume in Raphele-les-Arles, der Crau, der Camargue, den Ockerfelsen von Roussillon sowie La Plaine und Massif des Maures inklusive deren herpetologische Begleitfauna wurden bereits von BÖCKL & ZAUNER (2014) vorgestellt.
Zauner, J. (2018) -
Während mehrerer Reise über den Predilpass in das Soca-Tal (Slowenien) konnte ich Iberolacerta horvathi und weitere Reptilien in drei Festungsanlagen aus dem Ersten Weltkrieg beobachten. An den markanten Gebäuden bewohnt diese Eidechse senkrechte Mauerflächen und ist eine häufige Erscheinung. Tiere beider Geschlechter und aller Altersstufen nutzen die gleichen Mikrohabitate. Des Weiteren wird auf eine zusätzliche visuelle Möglichkeit der Unterscheidung zur – auf den ersten Blick – ähnlichen und zum Teil syntop vorkommenden Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis muralis) eingegangen.
Eine Reise nach Portugal führte mich mit befreundeten Eidechsenhaltern in die Serra de Sấo Mamede. Vom 22.04. bis 28.04.2017 bereisten wir den 31.750 Hektar großen Nationalpark, um nach Reptilien, insbesondere nach Eidechsen, zu suchen. In der Literatur werden bei den Schlangen acht Arten und bei den Eidechsen zehn Arten aufgelistet. Davon sind sechs Arten den Halsbandeidechsen zugeordnet. Ein Großteil der in Portugal vorkommenden Reptilien war also in dem kleinen Gebiet zu erwarten.
Zauner, J. (2019) -
Zauner, J. (2021) -
Zauner, J. (2022) -
Brief note on the discovery of hypomelanistic females of Lacerta agilis argus in the municipality of Kiefersfelden, Upper Bavaria, near the Austrian Border and Freiham/Munich.
During the first lockdown due to COVID 19, travel was heavily restricted. The search for reptiles in the vicinity of my home resulted in the discovery of several locations of the sand lizard.
Report about an intense encounter with the giant emerald lizard Lacerta trilineata major BOULENGER, 1887 on the Croatian islsnd of Krk.
Zauner, J. (2023) -
Zauner, J. (2024) -
Observations of lacertids and their habitats from two trips in 2006 and 2023 in the west and south of the Peloponnese peninsula are summarized. Greek Algyroides Algyroides moreoticus Bibron & Bory de Saint-Vincent, 1833, Greek Rock Lizard Hellenolacerta graeca (Bedriaga, 1886), Balkan Green Lizard Lacerta trilineata trilineata Bedriaga, 1886, Ionic Wall Lizard Podarcis ionicus (Lehrs, 1902) and Peloponnese Wall Lizard Podarcis peloponnesiacus (Bibron & Bory de Saint-Vincent, 1833) were found at various locations. In some cases, four of the mentioned species were found at one location at the same time.
Zauner, J. & Böckl, W. (2020) -
We report the observation of bipedal escape behavior of a Balkan Green Lizard (Lacerta trilineata major) on the island of Krk. In a movie clip on YouTube, the reader can also view the behavior in slow motion.
Zauner, J. & Böckl, W. & Zill, M. (2010) -
Zauner, J. & F. Zönnchen (2021) -
Die Eidechsen Bulgariens und deren Lebensräume werden in Text und Bild vorgestellt. Die Autoren konnten auf mehreren Reisen neun der insgesamt zehn vorkommenden Lacertiden-Arten finden.
Zauner, J. & J. Beck (2019) -
During two trips in 2005 and 2011 a total of four species of true lizards (Lacertidae) were recorded and photographed at the Plitvice Lakes National Park (Croatia). The Viviparous Lizard (Zootoca vivipara vivipara), the Eastern Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis viridis), the Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis muralis) and Horvath’s Rock Lizard (Iberolacerta horvathi) occur in different densities and habitats within the national park.
Zavadil, V. (1996) -
Zavadil, V. (1999) -
Zavadil, V. (2001) -
Zavadil, V. (2011) -
The study summarizes the data on occurrence of amphibians and reptiles in the Křivoklát Area (Central Bohemia), paying special attention to the Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area and Biosphere Reserve. Some rare or significant taxa are discussed in more details, namely the Fire-bellied Toad (Bombina bombina), Yellowbellied Toad (Bombina variegata), water frogs, the Green Lizzard (Lacerta viridis), Dice Snake (Natrix tesselata) and the Common Adder (Vipera berus). Management outlines for as well as further research on some species are proposed by the author. In addition, amphibian and reptile distribution in the proposed Křivoklátsko National Park is debated within the article.
Zavattari, E. (1929) -
Zavattari, E. (1937) -
Zavattari, E. (1954) -
Zavialov, E.V. & Tabachishin, V.G. & Shlyakhtin, G.V. (2003) -
Distribution of 11 species of reptiles (17.5% of reptile fauna in Russia) has been summarized identified on the base of field records during the period from 1990 up to 2002 on the territory of Saratov region and examination of collection of the museums of Russia and the Ukraine. There are 1 species of tortoise (16.6%), 4 species of lizards (13.8%) and 6 species of snakes (15.4%). Besides, there is possible record of common adder in the extreme north of territory, and Coluber caspius Cmelin, 1779 are dis- cussed.
Завьялов Е.В., Табачишин В.Г., Шляхтин Г.В. (2003) -
Zavialov, E.V. & Kaybeleva, E.I. & Tabachishin, V.G. & Ivanova, Y.V. (2007) -
The karyotype of some local populations of Eremias arguta from the Samara and Saratov Trans-Volga regions is described. The diploid set of multi-coloured lizards of both the Trans-Volga populations includes 38 chromosomes 2n = 38, NF = 38. All the chromosomes are acrocentric, gradually decreasing in size. The karyotype structure of females and males is 2n = 35M + 3m and 2n = 36M + 2m, respectively. The presence of nucleous organizers on telomeric sites of three (2nd, 4th, and 7th) and four (1st, 2nd, 4th and 9th) pairs of autosomes for the Saratov and Samara Trans-Volga regions, respectively, is a feature of the E. arguta karyotypes of these populations. In this connection, further comparative analysis of the chromosome sets of E. arguta from various sites of its habitat seems promising.
Завьялов Е.В., Кайбелева Э.И., Табачишин В.Г., Иванова Ю.В. (2007) -
Zavialov, E.V. & Tabachishin, V.G. & Shlyakhtin, G.V. & Baunov, A.A. & Storozhilova, D.A. & Voronkov, D.V. (2000) -
Zavyalov, E.V. & Tabachishin, V.G. & Shlyakhtin, G.V. (2000) -
Analysis of the sand lizards alteration within the same habitat so as its morphological at- tributes follows the field survey data, collected in 1993-1999. The study of the materials, con- cerning the matter, collected by Saratov university zoological museum has also contributed to the analysis. It has been found that the skin color and the body outline of the sand lizards are changeable. For sand lizards’ populations both west and east of the Volga sand lizards with brown (34.0 and 44.5% correspondingly) or green (20.9 and 40.5%) occur. The most rare skin color for sand lizards to the east of the Volga opposite Saratov is olive-green (6.5%) and gray (10.0%) in the west of it. No considerable variations are noted in the data on pholidosis of sand lizards in the northern part of the Lower Volga area in comparison with likewise data for the south-west of Russia came from literature. However, the number of Sq., P.f. and Na. decreases to the north, east and west, while in the southern territories it reaches higher numbers. Besides, the number of Ventr., G. and Lor. is somewhat higher for lizards within the northern, southern and eastern zones, occupied by the subspecies. As discussed below the lizards occupy various lands within the study territory. However, the species prefers the stations with intricate microrelief. The study territory is populated by various biotopes with apparent ecotonic features. These bio- topes have been transformed under the human impacts. The sand lizard in the northern part of the Lower Volga area appears in spring, in the first ten days of April. The wintering period starts in the second half of September, though in warm years lizards may occur till the second half of October. In spring the sand lizard demonstrates single-peak and in summer double-peak activity. As a result of measuring body temperature of 49 lizards that of 18.2-40.1°C appears to match active status of the reptiles. However, the best temperature range for lizards to keep high activity rate is 26-34.0°C. As 175 lizards’ gastrointestinal tracts have been investigated (the lizards were caught in the suburbs of Saratov) the insects appear to be the main food of the reptiles. During the reptiles activity period the insects have been found in 100 per cent of the stomachs examined. The other classes are relatively poor presented in the food pattern of the lizards.
Завьялов Е.В., Табачишин В.Г., Шляхтин Г.В. (2000) -
Zavyalov, E.V. & Tabachishin, V.G. & Shlyakhtin, G.V. (2006) -
Завьялов, Е.В. & Табачишин, В.Г. & Шляхтин, Г.В. и др. (2006) -
Zawadzki, M. (2000) -
A short report on the occurence of Siamese twins within Lacerta agilis agilis is given.
Keeping and breeding of Lacerta laevis troodica from Cyprus is described. One male and two females were kept in a terrarium with the size of 50 x 40 x 40 cm (later 80 x 45 x 50 cm). The two females produced 2 and 3 clutches with 2 - 4 eggs. After an incubation time of 50 days at temperatures of 27 - 32 °C during the day and 22 - 24 °C during the night 3 hatchlings appeared on 03.08.94. They measured 71, 72 and 75 mm (26 mm SV). Mating behaviour could be observed between the two females and is briefly discussed. The adult male showed a cataleptic behaviour when it was caught out of the terrarium. In October the male suddenly showed an aggressive behaviour and fought the females vehemently which led to the death of the two females.
Field observations on Podarcis lilfordi gigliolii were made on Dragonera in August of 1994. Some short discriptions of the island, the flora and the lizards are given.
Zawadzki, M. (2001) -
Survey of the present known occurrences of population exposures within the Ibiza wall lizard (Podarcis pityusensis Boscà,1883). Probably more often than it has been documented in the past, lizards are transported with the help of men to other islands or islets where either no lizards live or which are inhabited by different subspecies. Therefore the mixing of populations is possible and the genetic barrier is broken which leads to complications in the taxonomy of these species. In some cases unfortunately such transported lizards have probably been described as different subspecies. In the future taxonomic studies of this specie the possible precence of such transported lizards within various populations should be given more attention.
Zawadzki, M. (2002) -
Im Sommer 1989 konnten in einer Population von Lacerta agilis agilis in Mörfelden (Hessen) mehrere Exemplare der „concolor“-Mutation beobachtet werden. Diese Zeichnungsvariante trat bei schätzungsweise zehn Prozent der gesichteten Tiere auf.
Zawadzki, M. (2003) -
Zawadzki, M. (2005) -
During two visits in May and October 2003 the introduced population of Podarcis pityusensis pityusensis could be observed in Cala Ratjada, N.E. Majorca. The population probably consists of 150-200 lizards and has expanded from the yachtharbour to the nearby rocky seashore parts and some wall and gardens in western direction.
Zawadzki, M. (2007) -
Zawadzki, M. (2008) -
Zawadzki, M. (2009) -
Zawadzki, M. (2010) -
During several visits to Mallorca between June 2003 and September 2008 a small population of Podarcis lilfordi has been found on the remains of the small island Frailes at the harbour of Colónia de Sant Jordi. Most of the lizards are melanistic and inhabit the rocky parts of the former island together with the Moorish Gecko (Tarentola mauritanica). It is very likely that this lizard population originates in lizards from Cabrera (P. l. kuligae) and from the nearby islands Moltona and Guardia (P. l. jordansi).
The endemic Podarcis lilfordi rodriquezi from the little island Isla Ratas in the Bay of Mahón (Menorca, Balearic Islands, Spain) has become extinct in the 1930s. According to PEREZ-MELLADO & SALAVADOR (1988) there are only four specimens of this subspecies left in collections today. A new examination of those specimens showed that they actually belong to Podarcis pityusensis ratae from the Isla Ratas southeast off the coast of Ibiza.
Zawadzki, M. (2012) -
During a city trip to Rome from 12.08.-16.08.2010, some herpetological observations could be made. In addition to the lacertid lizards Podarcis siculus siculus and Podarcis muralis nigriventris some specimens of the Moorish Gecko (Tarentola mauritanica) as well as an individual of the Aesculapian snake (Zamenis longissimus) were found.
Although Mallorca is one of the most popular holiday islands, the general herpetological interest among ist visitors is quite marginal. Nonetheless, this beautiful island is home of many interesting species, among them two lizards of the family Lacertidae: the introduced Ibiza Wall Lizard (Podarcis pityusensis) and the endemic Balear Lizard (Podarcis lilfordi). The latter became extinct on mainland Mallorca but can be found in great numbers on the islands Dragonera and Cabrera.
Zawadzki, M. (2014) -
Während einer Reise im Dezember 2013 nach Fuerteventura wurde die dortige Herpetofauna untersucht. Neben der nahezu allgegenwärtigen Atlantischen Eidechse, die hier in der Unterart Gallotia atlantica mahoratae vorkommt, und dem Kanarischen Mauergecko (Tarentola angustimentalis) wurde auf der südlichen Halbinsel Jandia auch eine eingeschleppte Population der aus dem Norden Teneriffas stammenden Gallotia galloti eisentrauti nachgewiesen. Dagegen gelang es nicht, den versteckt lebenden und nur in einigen Gebieten der Insel vorkommenden Purpurarienskink (Chalcides simonyi) aufzuspüren.
Zawadzki, M. (2015) -
Es wird über Beobachtungen an der Mauereidechse Podarcis muralis maculiventris während einer Italienreise im Juni 2015 berichtet. Erstes Ziel war die Stadt Verona, anschließend ging es weiter zum Gardasee in die Ortschaften Lazise sowie Sirmione.
Zawadzki, M. (2016) -
Es wird kurz über Beobachtungen ungewöhnlicher Nahrung von Podarcis pityusensis formenterae am Cap de Barbaria im Süden Formenteras berichtet.
Es wird über die Entdeckung einer kleinen Population von Podarcis siculus siculus auf einer winzigen namenlosen Insel in der Bucht von Es Grau im Osten Menorcas berichtet. Überraschenderweise stürzte sich eine der Eidechsen auf eine ausgelegte Pflaume.
Zawadzki, M. (2017) -
This short note describes an encounter with the viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara in a marshland habitat in the western part of Hamburg, Germany. Two males tried to copulate simultaneously with a female that had just caught a big dragonfly larva.
Zawadzki, M. (2018) -
Dokumentation eines Farbwechsels bei vier Teira dugesii dugesii.
Während einer Reise Anfang Juni 2011 nach Teneriffa, der größten der Kanarischen Inseln, ergaben sich viele Gelegenheiten, die allgegenwärtige Westkanaren-Eidechse zu beobachten. Die Nominatform Gallotia galloti galloti bewohnt das Zentrum sowie den Süden Teneriffas, während Gallotia galloti eisentrauti im Norden und Nordosten der Insel anzutreffen ist.
Zawadzki, M. (2019) -
Die Pityuseneidecvhse Podarcis pityusensis ist das einzige endemische Landwirbeltier der Pityusen und bewohnt neben den beiden Hauptinseln Ibiza und Formentera die allermeisten der vorgelagerten kleinen Felseninseln. Als der Mensch die Inseln besiedelte, brachte er auch fremde Beutegreifer in seinem Gefolge mit, wie zum Beispiel Ginsterkatzen, Steinmarder, Igel, Ratten und Wildkatzen. Podarcis pityusensis ist durch nationale und internationale Gesetze geschützt und im Anhang II des Washingtoner Artenschutzübereinkommens (CITES: Convention in International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna und Flora) gelistet. Auf der Roten Liste der IUCN wird die Art derzeit als potentiell gefährdet („Near Threatened“) eingestuft. Einige der Populationen sind jedoch stark rückgängig, gefährdet oder vom Aussterben bedroht. Ursächlich hierfür sind unter anderem Störungen und Nachstellungen durch den Menschen, Einschleppung von Katzen und Ratten sowie auch versehentliche Vergiftung durch Köder zur Bekämpfung von Möwen. Anfang dieses Jahrtausends wurden drei Schlangenarten mit importierten Olivenbäumen auf die Inseln verschleppt: die Hufeisennatter (Hemorrhois hippocrepis), die Treppennatter (Rhinechis scalaris) und die Westliche Eidechsennatter (Malpolon monspessulanus). Während letzgenannte Art seit 2010 nicht mehr nachgewiesen wurde, verbreiten sich die beiden anderen Schlangenarten besorniserregend. Podarcis pityusensis macht in der Nahrung von Hemorrhois hippocrepis auf Ibiza 55,4 % der beobachteten Beute aus, und die Nahrung von Rhinachis scalaris auf Formentera besteht ersten Untersuchungen nach zu mehr als der Hälfte aus Eidechsen (HINCKLEY et al. 2017). Dies stellt für die Eidechsen auf den beiden Hauptinseln eine ernsthafte Bedrohung dar. Sollten die Schlangen auch die umliegenden Inseln erreichen, würde dies katastrophale und unwiederbringliche Folgen für die dort lebenden Eidechsenpopulationen haben, da sie die einzige verfügbare Beute wären.
Zawadzki, M. (2020) -
The Ibiza wall lizard, Podarcis pityusensis is the only endemic land vertebrate of the Pityusic Islands. It inhabits the two main islands Ibiza and Formentera as well as the vast majority of the offshore small islands. When humans first arrived at the islands, they brought with them a handful of foreign predators, such as genets, beech martens, rats, and feral cats – all lizard predators. Podarcis pityusensis is fully protected by national and international legislation and listed in Annex II of the Bern Convention and in Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). It is declared as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN (2009). However, some of the populations are very much reduced, endangered or on the verge of extinction as they are threatened by illegal collection, disturbance by visitors, introduction of cats and rats to the islands, and accidental poisoning with bait left for seagulls. The recent introductions of three snake species on Ibiza and Formentera are of particular concern. The Montpellier snake (Malpolon monspessulanus) has not been caught on the islands since 2010. The horseshoe whip snake (Hemorrhois hippocrepis) has shifted its diet towards lizards, with the native Ibiza wall lizard, representing 55.4 % of the observed prey. A similar dietary shift is probably occurring with the ladder snake (Rhinechis scalaris) in Formentera, as a preliminary study shows that more than half of its prey is constituted by Podarcis pityusensis (HINCKLEY et al. 2017). The effect of predation may seriously threaten the lizards in the main islands and the arrival of snakes in the surrounding islands may produce a catastrophic and irrecoverable event for lizard populations as they would be the only available prey.
A brief report on the longevity in captivity of Podarcis pityusensis and Podarcis lilfordi.
Zawadzki, M. (2021) -
Observations on a small population of the Common lizard Zootoca vivipara at the Baltic Sea. The lizards inhabited wooden fence posts directly at the steep coast exclusively.
Zawadzki, M. (2022) -
A short note on an allochthonous population of the Italian Wall lizard Podarcis siculus campestris in Southwest Germany (Karlsruhe, Baden-Württemberg). The lizards live in the immediate vicinity of a railway track. The populations size is estimated at more than 100 to 200 individuals.
Zawadzki, M. & Berg, M. v.d. & Kroniger, M. (2023) -
Obituary for Podarcis pityusensis hortae (BUCHHOLZ, 1954) from the small island of Illot de s`Ora. The lizard population has been wiped out within a few months by the introduced horsehoe whip snake (Hemorrhois hippocrepis).
Zawadzki, M. & Berg, M. van den (2011) -
Bericht über die Neuentdeckung einer winzigen Inselpopulation der Baleareneidechse (Podarcis lilfordi) auf dem kleinen Eiland Illot d’en Carbó Petit in der Bucht von Port d’Addaia.
Zawadzki, M. & Berg, M. van den & Kroniger, M. (2018) -
Es werden erstmals Angaben zum genauen Vorkommen der allochthonen Population von Podarcis pityusensis auf der Inselgruppe Las Isletas (= Ses Illetes) in der Bucht von Palma de Mallorca, Balearen, Spanien, gegeben.
Zawadzki, M. & Berg, M. van den & Kroniger, M. (2023) -
In the spring of 193o, the German zoologist Martin Eisentraut performed some field experiments with the Ibiza wall lizard Podarcis pityusensis (Boscá, 1883). When he found out that the small rocky island of Illa Negra de Llevant, located at the entrance to the port of Ibiza Town and close to the coast, seemed to have no lizard population of its own, he released a total of 5o specimens of the melanistic subspecies Podarcis pityusensis maluquerorum from the island of Bleda Plana. Although, these translocation experiments were published by Eisentraut (193o, 1949), they were obviously not known to all subsequent authors, and so the lizards encountered on the Illa Negra de Llevant in the period from 1979 onwards were always assigned to the nominate form Podarcis pityusensis pityusensis due to their similarity to the lizards of Ibiza. Previous investigations could not clarify whether the lizards of the Illa Negra de Llevant are descendants of the animals released by Eisentraut or whether they are specimens of a new introduction. With the results of our own investigations, we would like to contribute to solve the mystery of the lizards of the Illa Negra de Llevant.
Zawadzki, M. & Berg, M.P. van den (2011) -
Presentation held at the annual meeting of the AG Lacertiden in Gersfeld/Rhön the 10th of April 2011. It is reported about the rediscovery of a population of the Balearic Lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) on the Illa de Ses Mones in the harbour of Port d´Addaia. This population has been considered to have become extinct during the 1990s due to the introduction of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus). Descriptions of the island and the lizards are given and for the first time it is reported about the sympatric occurrence of Podarcis lilfordi and Podarcis siculus. Because in quite a lot of publications the nearby Illot d´en Carbó has been confused with the Illa de Ses Mones the taxonomic status of the rediscovered Podarcis lilfordi population from the Illa de Ses Mones and the Podarcis lilfordi carbonerae population of Illot d`en Carbó are discussed.
Zawadzki, M. & Berg, M.P. van den (2015) -
As a result of their taxonomical study of the populations of the Balearic lizard of Menorca Pérez-Mellado & Salvador (1988) described three new subspecies of Podarcis lilfordi. The type series of one of them, Podarcis lilfordi carbonerae, had been collected on an island called “Isla Carbonera” in 1933. The fact that their describers could not find this islet on any map, but did not hesitate to describe these lizards as a new subspecies, was not very reasonable and surely contributed to the mystery that should surround this subspecies from now on. But it was not this fact alone that casted a bad light on this taxonomic revision, because in-depth analyses revealed more awkward mistakes. Even the rediscovery of Podarcis lilfordi carbonerae by Pérez-Mellado et al. (2002) was only based on assumptions but did not contain any scientific proof. In this paper we give new information on the possible terra typica of Podarcis lilfordi carbonerae by introducing the Illa de Ses Mones. Because neither the En Carbó nor the Ses Mones lizards can be separated from the populations of the two nearby islands Illa Gran d’Addaia and Illa Petit d’Addaia by means of coloration or meristic and metric characters, we consider Podarcis lilfordi carbonerae Pérez-Mellado & Salvador, 1988 as a synonym of Podarcis lilfordi addayae (Eisentraut, 1928).
Zawadzki, M. & Berg, M.P. van den & Kroniger, M. (2022) -
We report about a crossbreeding experiment by the German zoologist Martin Eisentraut, who, as part of some nature experiments in 1930 with the Ibiza wall lizard Podarcis pityusensis (BOSCÁ, 1883), released specimens of two different subspecies on the small rocky island of Dau Gran off the coast of Ibiza, which had previously been free of lizards. In this way, he hoped to gain insights into the heredity and causes of insular melanism. We want to shed light on the history of the lizards of Dau Gran and discuss the results published so far as well as the assumption mady by some authors that the population has perished, and the lizards found on the island today may be of different origin. With a new study on morphology and observations on Dau Gran we would like to show that the small lizard population has survived on the tiny rocky island to the present day.
Zawadzki, M. & Berg, M.van den (2017) -
We report on the discovery of a new population of the Pityusic lizard Podarcis pityusensis (Boscá, 1883) from the small island Escull d`en Terra at the southern tip of Ibiza. During two visits on the 11th and 12th April 2017 four lizards (two males and two females) were caught and examined. A total of four males, six females and two juvenile lizards was counted, which is likely to have covered nearly the entire population. Thus, the Escull d´en Terra hosts one of the smallest populations of Podarcis pityusensis. The lizards of the island are similar in appearance to the animals of Ibiza, which is the reason why we consider them as belonging to the nominate subspecies P. p. pityusensis.
Zawadzki, M. & Berg, Marten van den & Kroniger, M. (2014) -
During a lizard survey on the island Illa s`Espartar in May 2013, we caught an adult male of Podarcis pityusensis kamerianus (MERTENS, 1927) that showed an incompletely formed left front leg. The leg was normally developed as far as the elbow and then ended in a small, probably regenerated stump. On 18th May 2011, we found a male Podarcis pityusensis formenterae on Punta Trucadors, the Northern part of Formentera, that displayed some kind of an additional regenerated leg on its left upper leg. This small stump was approx. 5-6 mm long and displayed the typical scales and the same brown colour as the original leg. We assume that this additional regenerated leg was caused by a former injury of the thigh bone.
Zawadzki, M. & Bischoff, W. (2006) -
Zawadzki, M. & Böhme, W. (2020) -
We provide some data on the life of Hermann Josef (alias Jost H.) Jokisch, a german who lived for ca. ten years on the Balearic island of Ibiza where he collected lizards for the Museum Alexander Koenig in Bonn. Apart from the archive of this museum, details about his hardly known life became apparent only through some German- speaking writers who had met and visited him on this island and partly integrated him as a literary figure into their writings.
Zawadzki, M. & Kroniger, M. (2001) -
Some subspecies of the endemie Ibiza wall lizard Podarcis pityusensis (BoscA, 1883) were observed in their natural environment and are briefly described with some complementary notes on their population density.
Some data concerning the reproduction in captivity of the melanistic subspecies of th Ibiza wall lizard Podarcis pityusensis maluquerorum are given. The data include information on the number of annual clutches, clutch and egg-size. Furthermore it is reported on th size and growth of the hatchlings.
Zawadzki, M. & Kroniger, M. (2002) -
It is reported on a hybridazation experiment from 1930 in which individuals of two different subspecies of the Pityusic wall lizard Podarcis pityusensis were released on the small rocky islet Dado Grande. The examinations and preliminary results by Böhme & Eisentraut (1981) of six specimen caugth five years later and speculations made by other authors on the probable extinction of this population are discussed. The authors of this article could find a small population that obviously consits od descendants of the released individuals.
Zawadzki, M. & Kroniger, M. (2003) -
During several visits to th island Illiot de Sa Mesquida (Mesquida) the lizard Podarcis pityusensis pityusensis (Boscá 1883) was found in variable numbers Presumed is that the fluctuation within the lizard population is affected by the nesting colony of gulls (Larus cachinnans).
Zawadzki, M. & Kroniger, M. (2004) -
Zawadzki, M. & Kroniger, M. (2005) -
Zawadzki, M. & Kroniger, M. (2007) -
Zawadzki, M. & Seemann, J. (2009) -
Am 23. September 2008 konnten wir eine kleine Population von Podarcis siculus campestris auf dem Gelände des “Centre d’Interpretació de Cabrera“ in Colonia de Sant Jordi (S-Mallorca, Balearen, Spanien) beobachten. Die Population geht wahrscheinlich auf Tiere zurück, die versehentlich zusammen mit Pflanzen im August 2007 hierher kamen. Insgesamt konntrn wir sechs adulte Tiere (zwei Männchen, vier Weibchen) sowie drei frisch geschlüpfte Jungtiere ausmachen.
Zawadzki, M. & Van den Berg, M. (2015) -
Two cases of an unusual prey of Podarcis pityusensis are described. On 18.05.2011 on Punta Trucadors, the most northern Part of Formentera, a male Podarcis pityusensis formenterae was observed eating a lizard’s tail. It is possible that the tail found and eaten by the lizard was the lizard’s own tail that beforehand might got lost during an intraspecific fight. On 0.3.05.2013 near San Rafael, Ibiza, a male Podarcis pityusensis pityusensis tried to swallow a dead juvenile Tarentola mauritanica. Obviously the prey was too big and the lizard only managed to bite off and eat the gecko’s tail and right foreleg.
Zawadzki, M. & van den Berg, M. (2015) -
Die Autoren berichten, wie sie bei zwei unfteiwilligen Zwischenstopps in Madrid auf eine für sie neue Eidechse stießen, die vier Jahre später dann sogar als neue Art beschrieben wurde.
Zdunek, P. (2021) -
Die Mauereidechse (Podarcis muralis) ist eine in Europa weit verbreitete Echse, von der auch viele Populationen außerhalb ihrer natürlichen Vorkommen, einschließlich Nordamerikas, bekannt sind. In Polen wurde vor etwas zehn Jahren eine Population in Niederschlesien entdeckt. Weitere Nachforschungn brachten in der näheren Umgebung weitere Populationen zutage. In diesem Bericht wird eine kurze Zusammenfassung der Geschichte der Mauereidechse in Polen gegeben, ergänzt durch Bemerkungen zur aktuellen Situation der Populationen in der benachbarten Tschechischen Republik und Deutschland. Diese Populationen besitzen einzigartige Haplotypen, entsprechen darin aber den polnischen Populationen. Daher ist sehr wahrscheinlich, das es sich um allochthone Populationen in Polen handelt. Abschließend wird kurz über den aktuellen Zustand dieser Popularionen am Nordostrand ihres natürlichen Areals berichtet.
Zechmeisterová, K. & Bellocq, J.G. de & Široký, P. (2019) -
Apicomplexan haemoparasites of the genera Schellackia Reichenow, 1919, and Karyolysus Labbé, 1894, seem to be common in lizards and widespread across the world. For decades, their identification has been based on morphological descriptions and life cycle patterns, with molecular characterizations, applied only recently. We used molecular characterization to confirm the identification of haemoparasites detected by microscopy in blood smears of Lacerta schreiberi Bedriaga, 1878, a lizard of the Iberian Peninsula. Since blood samples other than blood smears were not available from the studied lizards, 264 engorged ticks Ixodes ricinus (Linneaus, 1758) collected from them were used as an alternative non-invasive source of haemoparasite DNA for molecular genetic analyses. Of the 48 blood smears microscopically examined, 31 were positive for blood parasites (64.6% prevalence). We identified trophozoites and gamonts similar to Karyolysus lacazei (Labbé, 1894) (24/48; 50%) and Schellackia-like sporozoites (20/48; 41.7%). Mixed infections with both species occurred in 13 blood smears (27.1%). Sequence data were obtained for both parasites from engorged ticks. Phylogenetic analyses placed our unique haemogregarine sequence within the Karyolysus clade, nevertheless, within substantial polytomy. Thus, according to its morphology and effect on the host cell, we refer to this haemogregarine as Karyolysus cf. lacazei. Besides the Schellackia sequences being identical to a previously identified haplotype, we also obtained sequences of three new closely related haplotypes.
Zeeb, S (2006) -
In diesem Bericht werden die auf einer Wanderreise durch Madeira an Teira dugesii gemachten Beobachtungen beschrieben. Der Lebensraum dieser Eidechse auf der Hauptinsel des Madeira-Archipels wird vorgestellt.
Zeggaoui, T. & Ziab, E.Y. (2021) -
Zehlius, J. (2011) -
I describe a location, where during two consecutive years hibernating common lizards under a wooden board in a rolled up position were found.
Zeller, V. & Laufer, H. (2020) -
Zeng, Z.-G. & Bi, J.-H. & Li, S.-R. & Wang, Y. & Robbins, T.R. & Chen, S.-Y. & Du, W.-G. (2016) -
Understanding community assembly is a fundamental goal of ecology and evolutionary biology, because it provides insight into how a given landscape changes in a synergistic fashion. With the current background of global environmental change, studies of how habitat alteration affects local communities often focus on species` responses to community-level changes instead of responses to specific ecological factors that elucidate the roles each factor plays in the final synergistic response. Here, we focus on the specific ecological mechanisms that drive changes in community structure. We investigated compositional patterns of lizard communities among natural and altered habitats (vegetatively sparse, natural, and dense) in the desert steppe ecosystem of Inner Mongolia, China. Habitat alteration induced significant changes in community composition of lizards and was associated with significant changes in both biotic and abiotic niches. Our preference (soil, thermal, and prey) and performance (locomotor, antipredator, and competitive) experiments identified many of the biotic and abiotic factors shaping lizard community responses to habitat change. In the natural habitat, where Phrynocephalus frontalis and Eremias multiocellata codominate, P. frontalis experienced low overlap (across lizard species) in preferred prey. Eremias multiocellata preferred the thermal environment of the natural habitat (and dense habitat), but this one factor did not fully explain its codominance. Phrynocephalus frontalis dominated in the sparse habitat, where this lizard species experienced its preferred tight soil and warm thermal environment and experienced low overlap of preferred prey. In the dense habitat, where E. argus dominates, P. frontalis and E. multiocellata exhibited impeded locomotor performance, whereas E. argus was not impeded by vegetation density. Eremias argus also preferred the thermal environment of the dense habitat (and natural habitat). Our results suggest, furthermore, that adult predation risk was not a major determinant of community divergence among habitats and that competition likely plays a more important role. Interspecific competition for microhabitat use may explain the low abundance of E. argus in the natural habitat and the low abundance of P. frontalis in the dense habitat. Overall, our assessment of lizard preferences and performances explained community composition across habitats. Our focus on ecological mechanisms associated with habitat alteration highlights the importance of vegetation conservation in lizard community management.
Zerbe, J. (2024) -
Zevgolis, Y.G. & Kouris, A. & Christopoulos, A. (2023) -
Traffic intensification, often in conjunction with habitat fragmentation, has caused frequent roadkill incidents, particularly among reptiles, amphibians, and other taxa. Herpetofauna species, which are slow moving and habitat dependent, are particularly susceptible to these incidents because they often use roads during thermoregulation. Lesvos, the eighth-largest Mediterranean island, boasts a biodiversity that surpasses most other Mediterranean islands of similar or larger size, with a plethora of herpetofauna species inhabiting its terrain. In recent years, new roads were constructed on Lesvos, which are considered to be one of the most important factors that negatively affect the island’s wildlife as they increase the non-natural mortality of animals, are obstacles to their mobility, and reduce the connectivity of populations by limiting their dynamics. In the present study, we examined the road mortality of amphibians and reptiles by analyzing (a) the temporal and seasonal patterns of such incidents, (b) the relationship between roadside habitats and road network characteristics with the roadkilled herpetofauna species, and (c) their spatial distribution on Lesvos during the years 2009–2012 and 2016–2019. To identify significant clusters of reptile and amphibian roadkills, we performed hotspot analysis by utilizing kernel density estimation and Getis Ord Gi* statistics. We recorded a total of 330 roadkills among 20 species, with the highest rates emerging among the European green toad (Bufotes viridis), the European glass lizard (Pseudopus apodus), the Rhodos green lizard (Lacerta diplochondrodes), and the snake-eyed lizard (Ophisops elegans). Spatial statistical analysis revealed that roads close to herpetofauna habitats exhibit statistically significant clusters of roadkills that intensify during the spring season. Regular monitoring and mapping of herpetofauna road mortality will enable the implementation of management strategies to mitigate the negative impact of this phenomenon.
Zhang, D.J. & Tang, X.L. & Yue, F. & Chen, Z. & Li, R.D. & Chen, Q. (2010) -
It has been documented in some reptiles that thermal environment can induce variation in sex ratio and morphological phenotypes of offspring. Here, the viviparous lizards (Eremias multiocellata) were maintained under different temperatures during pregnancy to test the effects of this treatment on sexual and morphological phenotypes of offspring, and to investigate whether this lizard is subject to temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD). The warmer temperatures resulted in shorter gestation periods and a higher ratio of male: female births; however, gestation temperature did not affect the neonates’ body mass or snout–vent length (SVL). The gestation temperatures also had significant effects on the mean litter size. Therefore, our results show that the viviparous lizard E. multiocellata might be a TSD species, providing the mothers the opportunity to manipulate the sex ratio of their offspring.
Zhang, J. & Hou, T. & Wang, X. & Zhang, J. & Chen, F. & Yao, M. & Ma, L. & Su, M. (2009) -
Zhang, L. (1997) -
Living in northwest China, Eremias velox is a kind of Lacertidae in the Eremias famiIy. In this study, the author observed and analysed the Karyotype of Eremias velox with marrow and 3 permary as examined material and found that the number of chromosome is 2n = 38, NF = 38, the Karytype is 2n = 36I + 2m, I = 19 in the meiosis of spermatophore which conforms to the rnitosis of the body cell, and neither the male nor the female has abnormal chromosome. Compared with E. vemiculata in the same family, Eremias velox is a more primitive kind of Lizard. This observation makes it possible to study the evolution of chromosome and therelation of the growth of chromosome system.
Zhang, L. & Chen, L. & Meng, Z. & Jia, M. & Li, R. & Yan, S. & Tian, S. & Zhou, Z. & Diao, J. (2020) -
In the context of global warming, an important issue is that many pesticides become more toxic, putting non-target organisms at higher risk of pesticide exposure. Eremias argus (a native Chinese lizard) was selected as animal model in this study. As a kind of poikilothermic vertebrate, E.argus is sensitive to temperature change. The experimental design [(with or without L-Glufosinate-ammonium (L-GLA) pollution × two temperatures (25 and 30 °C)] was used in this study for 90 days to identify the chronic effects of the pesticide–temperature interaction on the lizards’ neuroendocrine-regulated reproduction. Survival rate, body weight, clutch characteristics, testicular histopathology, the content of neurotransmitters and related enzyme activity, the level of sex steroid, the expression of Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), antioxidant system, the accumulation and degradation of L-GLA were examined. Results showed that L-GLA disrupt reproduction of lizards through hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis. In addition, temperature can not only change the environmental behavior of pesticides, but also alter the physiological characteristics of lizards. Thus, our results emphasized that temperature is an essential abiotic factor that should not be overlooked in ecotoxicological studies.
Zhang, L. & Chen, L. & Meng, Z. & Zhang, W. & Xu, X. & Wang, Z. & Qin, Y. & Dng, Y. & Liu, R. & Zhou, Z. & Diao, J. (2019) -
Reptiles, the most diverse taxon of terrestrial vertebrates, might be particularly vulnerable to soil pollution. Reptiles especially lizards have been rarely evaluated in ecotoxicological studies, and there is a very limited report for effects of soil pesticide contaminants on lizards. In this study, male and female lizards (Eremias argus) were exposed to Glufosinate-ammonium (GLA) and l- Glufosinate-ammonium (L-GLA) for 60 days. Slower sprint speed, higher frequency of turning back and reduced brain index were observed in treatment groups. The accumulation of GLA in the brain of lizard was higher than that of L-GLA. Moreover, the activities of neurotoxicity-related enzymes and biomarkers of oxidative stress were also investigated. In summary, the neurotoxic effects of lizards have been observed after exposure to GLA and L-GLA. Based on the result of the Integrated Biomarker Response (IBR), males were more sensitive to contaminants than females. On the other hand, the neurotoxic pathways by GLA and L-GLA triggered were slightly different: GLA mainly acted on glutamine synthetase (GS), acetylcholinesterase (AchE) and Catalase (CAT) and L-GLA aimed at AchE, Na+/K+-ATPase, Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Malondialdehyde (MDA). In summary, the accumulation of GLA and L-GLA in lizard`s brain induced neurotoxicity by altering the levels of enzymes related to nervous system and antioxidant activity and further resulted in the decrease of brain index and locomotor performance.
Zhang, L. & Diao, J. & Chen, L. & Wang, Z. & Zhang, W. & Li, Y. & Tian, Z. & Zhou, Z. (2019) -
Glufosinate-ammonium (GLA) is a spectrum herbicide that is widely used in agriculture. The toxic effects of GLA on plants and mammals have been extensively studied; however, little is known about its effects on reptiles. In this study, male lizards (Eremias argus) were exposed to GLA contaminated soil for 60 days. Physical conditions, organ coefficients, antioxidant enzyme activity, tissue distribution, histopathological damage, steroid hormones levels, and related gene expression of sex steroids were evaluated. In contrast to unexposed control lizards, the body mass index of the GLA group was decreased, which elucidated that GLA adversely affected the physical condition of E. argus. Changes in antioxidant enzyme activities in response to elevated malondialdehyde levels in lizard testis indicated that testes were strongly affected by oxidative damage, and the increased testis index was associated with severe testis lesions. Moreover, alterations of plasma sex hormone levels and related gene expression levels of sex steroids were also observed, and the mechanism underlying the induction of reproductive toxicity was clarified. The activity of glutamine synthetase was severely inhibited in the liver of the GLA exposure group. Based on the results of liver index and histopathology examinations, the hepatotoxicity effect of GLA was confirmed.
Zhang, L. & Meng, Z. & Chen, L. & Zhang, G. & Tian, Z. & Wang, Z. & Yu, S. & Zhou, Z. & Diao, J. (2020) -
The trade-off between self-maintenance and reproduction has been explored wildly in reptiles. However, the effects of exogenous pollutants on the life history traits of reptiles have not been paid attention to. In the current study, lizards (Eremias argus), living in the soil polluted by perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) were selected as the main focus. Bodyweight, survival rate, clutch characteristics and biochemical analysis (immune response, lipid accumulation, sex steroid secretion, antioxidant level, and metabolomics) were investigated and the results revealed that lizards’ life-history trade-offs are gender-dependent: females were more inclined to choose a “Conservative” life-history strategy. After 60 days of exposure to PFOA, larger body weight, higher survival rate, stronger immune response, and lighter egg mass in females suggested that their trade-offs are more biased towards self-maintenance. Whereas, the “Risk” strategy would more popular among males: reduced body weight and survival rate, and suffering from oxidative damage indicated that males made little investment in self-maintenance.
Zhang, X. & Chen, J. & Luo, H.-Y. & Chen, X. & Thong, J. & Ji, X. (2024) -
The mitochondrion, which is an intracellular organelle responsible for most of the energy-producing pathways, can have its genome targeted for climate-driven selection. However, climate-driven mitochondrial selection remains a sparsely studied area in reptiles. Here, we reported the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of a lacertid lizard (Takydromus intermedius) and used mitogenomes from 54 species of lacertid lizards to study their phylogenetic relationships and to identify the mitochondrial genes under positive selection by climate. The length of the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of T. intermedius was 17,713 bp, which was within the range of lengths (17,224–18,943) ever reported for Takydromus species. The arrangement of mitochondrial genes in T. intermedius was the same as in other congeneric species. The 54 lacertid species could be divided into three geographically and climatically different clades. We identified three mitochondrial genes (ATP6, ATP8, and ND3) under positive selection by climate, and found that isothermality, temperature seasonality, precipitation of wettest month, and precipitation seasonality were the most important climatic variables contributing to the gene selection.
Zhang, Y.-P. & Ji, X. (2000) -
Adult grass lizards,Takydromus septentrionalis, are similar in size (SVL) but sexually dimorphic in head size (males larger than females ) throughout its range. A comprehensive analysis on the ecological and evolutionary sources of sexual differences in growth and size of heads requires a detailed understanding of growth trajectories during ontogeny.In this study,we specifically quesioned at what point during ontogeny males and females diverge in head size:at birth,during juvenile growth,or as mature adults? Our results indicate that males and females begin to diverge in head size at birth,although the divergence in the newly emerged young is much less pronounced than that in adults.An ANCOVA indicates that adult females even have smaller heads than do juveniles (including the newly emerged young).This suggests that adult females partition less resources into head growth but more into carcass growth,thereby leaving a larger space for eggs so as to increase reproductive output.Lizards collected in different seasons,from different populations,and at different ontogenetic stages,in various degrees,differ in food niche width and breadth.However,no direct evidence shows a substantial contribution of the divergence in head size to the segregation of food niche between males and females.Our analyses support that sexual selection is the main evolutionary source of smaller heads in female T.septentrionalis.
张永普,计翔 (2000) -
摘要 报道了北草蜥(Takydromus septentrionalis)的头部大小两性异形和食性在个体发育过程中的变化,讨论该种两性异形的进化选择压力。北草蜥成体体长无显著的两性差异,两性异形主要表现为雄性个体有较大的头部(头长和头宽)。头部大小的两性异形在孵出幼体就已经存在。头部随SVL的增长速率 个体发育的不同阶段是不同的,并随个体发育的进行变得更为显著。协方差分析显示,成年雌体特定SVL的头部大小显著小于成年雄体及两性幼体,说明雌体性成熟后通过减缓头部生长来确保躯体的生长,以增加繁殖输出。不同季节、不同种群、不同性别及年龄的北草蜥摄入食物的种类及各种食物在摄入食物中所占的比例有一定程度的差别,生态位宽度和重叠度因而有一定的差异。没有直接的证据表明两性头部大小的差异能导致两性个体食物生态位的明显分离,并有利于缓减两性个体对共同食物资源的竞争。北草蜥成年雌体头部较小,主要是由性选择压力决定的。
Zhang, Y.-P. & Ying, X.-P. & Ji, X. (2005) -
We studied the ultrastructure of the spermatozoon of northern grass lizards (Takydromus septentrionalis,n=5) collected in April 2003 from a population in Wenzhou, Zhejiang, eastern China. The mature spermatozoa are characterized by: A circular acrosome; an acrosomal vesicle divided into cortex and medulla; the unilateral ridge of the acrosome vesicle divided into cortex and medulla, the electronlucent zone between them; a prenuclear perforatorium, absence of the perforatorium base plate; presence of the subacrosomal space; an elongated nucleus, absence of a endonuclear canal; absence of epinuclear lucent zone; rounded nuclear shoulders. A bilateral stratified laminar structure within the neck region. A short midpiece; absence of multilaminar membranes; in longitudinal section, two tiers of mitochondria, in transverse section, six mitochondria with linear cristae; the presence of two dense body groups, the ring structure consisting of the complete ring; the arrangement pattern of the ring structure and mitochondria in rs1/mi1 and rs2/mi2; a fibrous sheath in the midpiece; presence of an annulus. A thin granular zone of cytoplasm at the anterior portion of the principal piece; the enlarged fiber 3 and fiber 8 disappearing at the anterior portion of the principal piece; the axoneme complex having an usual 9+2 pattern. Within lacertid lizards, sperms differ among species in the number of mitochondria, but in all species studied so far, there are two groups of dense bodies. However, lizards of different taxa differ, in various degrees, in such sperm morphological traits as acrosome vesicle, subacrosomal space, epinuclear lucent zone, perforatorium base plate, nuclear shoulder and number and arrangement of mitochondria and dense bodies. These differences suggest that sperm morphology provides additional information which one may use to study the phylogeny of lizards.
张永普 ,应雪萍 ,计 翔 (2005) -
应用透射 电镜对北草蜥精 子的超微结构研究结果 表明 ,北 草蜥精子头部顶体囊 始终呈 圆形 ,由皮质 和髓质组成;顶体囊单侧脊的皮质与髓质问具电子透亮区;穿孔器 1个,无穿孔器基板 ;具顶体下腔;细胞核 长形 ,核 内小管缺 ,核前 电子透亮 区缺 ,核肩 圆。尾部颈段具片层结构 。中段短 ,多层 膜结构 缺 ;纵切 面上具 2 层 线 粒 体 ; 横 切 面 上 每 圈 线 粒 体 6 个 ; 2 组 致 密 体 , 具 连 续 的 环 状 结 构 ; 线 粒 体 与 环 状 结 构 的 排 列 模 式 : rsl/ mil、rs2/mi2;纤维鞘伸人中段 ,具终环。主段前面部分具薄的细胞质颗粒区;纤维 3和 8至主段前端消失; 轴丝呈 “9+2”型。蜥蜴科内不同种类的线粒体数目不同,但都具有2组致密体。不同类群蜥蜴的顶体囊、顶 体下腔 、核前 电子透亮 区、穿孔器基板 、核肩 ,以及线粒体与致密体 的数 目和排列 方式等精 子超微结 构特征都 为研究蜥蜴的系统发生提供了辅助信息。
Zhang, Z. & Zhu, Q. & Chen, J. & Khattak, R.H. & Li, Z. & Teng, L. & Liu, U. (2022) -
Gut microbiota are essential to maintain host health and fitness largely through its influence with behavior, development and reproduction of host, particular among the amniotic ectothermic reptiles. Global warming effects on the composition of the host’s gut microbiota in some taxa are generally known. Previous studies on reptiles in both natural habitats and lab-reared individuals have demonstrated that temperature changes can alter the composition and function of the host’s gut microbiota. However, these effects on wild-caught reptiles are not well-understood. This study investigated changes in the composition of gut microbiota of wild-caught lizards (Eremias argus), which were experimentally exposed to two different temperatures. The results showed that the increase in temperature altered the gut microbiota; both the groups showed an altered and destabilized composition of gut microbiota in response to their adaptive states. The warming did not significantly alter the relative abundances of the main gut microbial communities in both the lizard genders, but increased those of predicted pathogenic bacterial genera, including Acinetobacter, Anaerotruncus, and Dehalobacterium. These results provided insights into the ecological adaptations of Eremias argus, but the body health and fitness of wild populations, concerning temperature changes, warrant further investigations.
Zhao, E. & Adler, K.. . (1993) -
Zhao, E. & Zhao, K. & Zhou, K. (1999) -
Zhao, K. (1985) -
Zhao, K.T. (1999) -
Zhao, Q. & Liu, H.-X. & Luo, L.-G. & Ji, X. (2011) -
Eremias argus and Eremias brenchleyi are lacertid lizards that are sympatric throughout the distribution of E. brenchleyi. We sequenced partial mitochondrial DNA from cytochrome (cyt) b gene for 106 individuals of E. argus from nine localities, and for 45 individuals of E. brenchleyi from five localities, in central and northern parts of North China. We determined 53 cyt b haplotypes from the E. argus samples, and 27 cyt b haplotypes from the E. brenchleyi samples. Only E. brenchleyi had followed a stepping-stone model of dispersal. Partitioned Bayesian phylogenetic analysis reveals that E. argus and E. brenchleyi are reciprocally monophyletic, and the divergence time between the two species was dated to about 4.1 ± 1.2 million years ago. Geographical structuring of haplotype is more significant in E. brenchleyi than in E. argus. Haplotypes of E. brenchleyi could be divided into four groups by the Yellow River and Taihang Mountains. Within-population genetic diversity indices are correlated neither with latitude nor with longitude. We calculated significant among-population structure for both species (E. argus: ΦST = 0.608, P < 0.001; E. brenchleyi: ΦST = 0.925, P < 0.001). Eremias brenchleyi has four independent management units, while E. argus has a more homogeneous genetic structure across its range. Our data show that: (1) the pattern seen in North American and European species that southern populations have higher genetic diversity as consequence of post-glaciation dispersal is absent in the two Chinese lizards; (2) the Yellow River and Taihang Mountains may have acted as important barriers to gene flow only in E. brenchleyi; and (3) genetic structure differs between the two lizards that differ in habitat preference and dispersal ability.
Zhao, Q. & Wang, Z. & Liu L.-L. & Zhao, W.-G. & Ji, X. (2008) -
Adult males of Eremias argus initially having intact tails were collected from three geographically separated populations (the Chang’an population in Shaanxi, the Gonghe population in Qinghai, and the Harbin population in Heilongjiang) between April and June 2006 to examine the effects of caudal autotomy on selected body temperature, surface activity (the number of individuals thermoregulating on the surface) and food intake. Lizards from each of the three populations were equally divided into experimental and control groups. We removed the tail 10 mm from the vent from each experimental lizard, thereby producing tailless lizards. Experimental and control lizards were maintained under identical laboratory conditions for four weeks to allow the accumulation of sufficient data. Surface activities differed among lizards from different populations, primarily as the consequence of long-term adaptation to local thermal environments. Reduced surface activities in tailless lizards were found in all the three populations, suggesting that E. argus is among lizard species where tail loss may modify activities. The temporal patterns of surface activity did not differ between experimental and control lizards within each of the three populations or among lizards from different populations, suggesting that there is a species-specific activity pattern in E. argus, and that the pattern is unaffected by tail loss. Selected body temperature increases with increase in latitude in E. argus, and this trend should be attributable to the constraints imposed by the thermal environment. Tailless lizards selected lower body temperatures than did tailed lizards in all three populations, suggesting that E. argus is among lizard species where tail loss may modify the set-point of thermoregulation. Food intake differed among lizards from different populations, with lizards from the Chang’an population ingesting significantly more food than those from the Gonghe population. In all three populations, increased energy demands associated with tail regeneration did not result in increment of food intake in tailless lizards. This finding suggests that increasing food intake is not a strategy adopted by tailless E. argus to compensate for the energetic costs of tail loss [Acta Zoologica Sinica 54(1):60–66, 2008].
Zhao, W.-GF. & XIA, Y.-G. & LIU, L.-L. & XIE, Z.-G. (2006) -
The karyotpe of Lacerta vivipara from Heilongjiang Province was studied by using medulla cells colchicine-hypotonic air-drying technique.The results showed that in males,the number of diploidy chromosome of males was 36,and sex chromosome was the type of ZZ(2n=34+ZZ),while in females,they were 35 and W(2n=34+W).The sex determination mechanism depends on sex chromosomes.All of chromosomes of males and females are telocentric except for females`sub-telocentric sex chromosome.The chromosomes were matched into 18 pairs according to their shape and classified into 3 groups according to their length:group A(number 1 pair,relative length 9.0%),group B(number 2 to 4 pairs,9.0% relative length 7.0%),and group C(number 5to 18 pairs,relative length7.0%).
Zhao, W.G. & Bong, B.J. & Liu, P. & Liu, Z.T. (2006) -
The predation behavior and feeding habits of the viviparous lizard (Lacerta vivipara) were studied by direct observation and gastric contents analysis. The results showed that the predation process of viviparous lizards included foraging, pre-attack behavior, aggression, prey execution, swallowing, and eating. There are 6 main steps in cleaning. Between June and October, the viviparous lizards have the most insects and spiders; the types and quantities of foods vary from month to month; the foods have the highest frequency of foods with an individual length of 1 to 10 mm; food The composition has a very significant correlation with the invertebrate species in the living environment. The food niche overlap of females and males is higher, while the food niche overlap of juveniles and adults is lower.
Zhao, Y. (2018) -
Reproductive investment, including the average number of offspring produced by an organism, is one of the fundamental characteristics of a species. Among other things, it predicts a species’ resilience to environmental disruption: taxa that produce more offspring are able to recover more quickly from environmental perturbations and survive long-term environmental change. Despite the clear importance of this trait, ecologists do not have a good understanding of the primary drivers shaping the reproductive investment of each species. To answer this question, I compare the reproductive efforts of numerous island populations of the Aegean Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardii), which differ in multiple key environmental characteristics. I test three hypotheses, namely that reproductive investment (measured as clutch size, clutch volume and egg volume) is: 1) positively associated with predation risk [‘Predation Risk Hypothesis’]; 2) positively associated with the presence of reliable vegetation cover that provides shelter [‘Gravid Female Protection Hypothesis’], and 3) limited by (and hence positively correlated with) food availability [‘Food Limitation Hypothesis’]. Although field data are consistent with all three hypotheses, statistical analysis shows strong support for the Predation Risk Hypothesis. The result not only shed light on which fundamental forces shape reproductive investment in island vertebrates, but can also help set conservation priorities by identifying the most sensitive populations because reduced reproductive ability can be predicted based on easily quantifiable island characteristics (number of sympatric predator species).
Zhao, Y. & Pafilis, P. & Valakos, E. & Foufopoulos, J. (2018) -
Zhdanova, N .P. & Zahharov, V.M. (2006) -
Zhdanova, N.P. & Zakharov, V.M. (2004) -
Zhong, Q.M. & Wang, J.L. (2022) -
Although sodium and water reabsorption by the kidney plays a major role in maintaining body fluid homeostasis, the seasonal response of renal morphology and the factors involved in water and salt regulation are not well known, especially in reptiles. Eremias multiocellata is a typical desert-dwelling lizard. Here, we compared water and salt regulation of E. multiocellata in winter (hibernation), spring (emerging from hibernation), and summer (active) according to histomorphometry and the expression of genes such as those encoding aquaporins (AQP1, AQP2, AQP3), the Na+-Cl− cotransporter (NCC), the Na+-K+-2Cl− cotransporter (NKCC2), renin (Ren), angiotensin II receptor type 2 (AT2R), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in the kidneys. The results showed that the area of Bowman`s capsule and the glomerular density were lower in winter compared to summer and spring, and the lumen size of the DCT, PCT, and IS was greater in spring than in summer. Compared to summer and spring, the expression of AQP1, AQP3, NCC, NKCC2, Ren, and eNOS was significantly decreased in winter, whereas the expression of AQP2 and AT2R remained high. These results indicate that E. multiocellata balances its water budget via morpho-functional changes in different seasons. Although renal function was temporarily attenuated during winter, the regulation of aquaporins genes was not synchronous, indicating the complexity and particularity of water and salt regulation in desert lizards when facing the constraints of harsh environmental conditions, seasonal variations, and hibernation. These results will enrich the understanding of water and salt regulation mechanisms in desert reptiles.
Zhong, Q.M. & Zheng, Y.H. & Wang, J.L. (2023) -
Although gut seasonal plasticity has been extensively reported, studies on physiological flexibility, such as water-salt transportation and motility in reptiles, are limited. Therefore, this study investigated the intestinal histology and gene expression involved in water-salt transport (AQP1, AQP3, NCC, and NKCC2) and motility regulation (nNOS, CHRM2, and ADRB2) in desert-dwelling Eremias multiocellata during winter (hibernating period) and summer (active period). The results showed that mucosal thickness, the villus width and height, the enterocyte height of the small intestine, and the mucosal and submucosal thicknesses of the large intestine were greater in winter than in summer. However, submucosal thickness of the small intestine and muscularis thickness of the large intestine were lower in winter than in summer. Furthermore, AQP1, AQP3, NCC, nNOS, CHRM2, and ADRB2 expressions in the small intestine were higher in winter than in summer; AQP1, AQP3, and nNOS expressions in the large intestine were lower in winter than in summer, with the upregulation of NCC and CHRM2 expressions; no significant seasonal differences were found in intestinal NKCC2 expression. These results suggest that (i) intestinal water-salt transport activity is flexible during seasonal changes where AQP1, AQP3 and NCC play a vital role, (ii) the intestinal motilities are attenuated through the concerted regulation of nNOS, CHRM2, and ADRB2, and (iii) the physiological flexibility of the small and large intestine may be discrepant due to their functional differences. This study reveals the intestinal regulation and adaptation mechanisms in E. multiocellata in response to the hibernation season.
Zhou, J. & Zhao, Y.-T. & Dai, Y.-Y. & Jiang, Y.-J. & Lin, L.-H. & Li, H. & Li, P. Qu, Y.-F. & Ji, X. (2020) -
Animals in captivity undergo a range of environmental changes from wild animals. An increasing number of studies show that captivity significantly affects the abundance and community structure of gut microbiota. The northern grass lizard (Takydromus septentrionalis) is an extensively studied lacertid lizard and has a distributional range covering the central and southeastern parts of China. Nonetheless, little is known about the gut microbiota of this species, which may play a certain role in nutrient and energy metabolism as well as immune homeostasis. Here, we examined the differences in the gut microbiota between two groups (wild and captive) of lizards through 16S rRNA sequencing using the Illumina HiSeq platform. The results demonstrated that the dominant microbial components in both groups consisted of Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Tenericutes. The two groups did not differ in the abundance of these three phyla. Citrobacter was the most dominant genus in wild lizards, while Morganella was the most dominant genus in captive lizards. Moreover, gene function predictions showed that genes at the KEGG pathway levels2 were more abundant in wild lizards than in captive lizards but, at the KEGG pathway levels1, the differences in gene abundances between wild and captive lizards were not significant. In summary, captivity exerted a significant impact on the gut microbial community structure and diversity in T. septentrionalis, and future work could usefully investigate the causes of these changes using a comparative approach.
Zhou, M. (2018) -
Removal sampling is commonly used to estimate abundance of populations in which captured individuals are permanently removed from a study area. The classic removal model (Moran, 1951) assumes a constant capture probability and all animals are available for detection throughout the study, which results in a simple geometric decline of counts of removed individuals over time. However, the real data collected from some species exhibit unexpected fluctuations in the number of captured animals. The work in this thesis is driven by real data on common lizards, Zootoca vivipara and great crested newts, Triturus cristatus, where existing approaches may give rise to misleading conclusions. When modelling removal data it is crucial to account for imperfect availability in the population, as individuals could sometimes temporarily become undetectable at study area, or emerge from an area outside the study. This thesis deals with three aspects of removal modelling: (i) We develop a robust design multievent removal modelling (RMER framework) which allows considerable flexibility in estimating temporary emigration as well as capture probability and the size of populations. We also consider the effect of sparse data and investigate the use of modelling different sources of data in conjunction with the removal data (Besbeas et al, 2002). (ii) The estimation of temporary emigration or population renewal for removal data relies on the use of the robust design (Zhou et al. 2018). However, there are many removal data which lack the robust design structure. Motivated by the analysis of a data set of common lizards collected under standard sampling protocol, we develop and evaluate the use of penalised maximum likelihood estimation to allow populations to be open to new individuals via birth/arrival for data sets without the robust design. (iii) We use four criteria to explore study design aspects of removal data with the robust design, including the trade-off in survey effort allocation between primary periods and secondary periods for a fixed level of total sampling effort. The models we propose can account for temporary emigration or new arrivals of individuals during removal sampling and represent a step forward with respect to current modelling approaches and will guide wildlife management.
Zhou, Q. & Li, J. & Guo, X. & Liu, J. & Song, Q.ö & Chen, H. & Zhang, J. & He, J. & Zeng, Z. & Chen, D. & Chen, J.-P. (2020) -
Background: To better simulate and predict zoonotic disease outbreaks, data on arthropods acting aspathogen carriers and information on host-arthropod associations should be collected. Ticks are obligatehaematophagous ectoparasites of vertebrate animals, including humans, with a wide global distribution.To date, the species discrimination and phylogenetic relationships among the ticks on lizards in Chinaremain unclear. Methods: In this study, 31 ticks, collected from Eremias multiocellata lizards in four arid desert regions ofthe Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in China, were identified by morphological observation and molecular techniques. The 12S rDNA, 16S rDNA, and COI fragments of ticks were sequenced. As reference samples, 47 Chinese ticks from hedgehogs and one tick from brushwood were also included in this study. To infer the phylogenetic relationships among them, 32 12S rDNA, 77 16S rDNA, and 66 COI sequences of ticks retrieved from GenBank were also included. All samples were identified by phylogenetic analyses. Results: The Bayesian and network analysis results revealed that the 31 ticks from the lizards belong to three genera and three species: 11 were identified as Hyalomma asiaticum, three as Rhipicephalus turanicus, and 17 as Haemaphysalis sulcata. Conclusions: Our study is the first attempt to investigate ticks on lizards in the arid desert regions of Xinjiang, China. Notably, two species of ticks have been identi
Zhou, T. & Li, D. & Dujsebayeva, T.N. & Liu, J. & Guo, X. (2016) -
The whole mitochondrial genome was determined from a viviparous racerunner, Eremias stummeri, which was collected from southeast Kazakhstan. The mitogenome sequence was 19 602 bp in size, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes and a control region, which is similar to the typical mtDNA of vertebrates. Mitochondrial genomes analyses using maximum parsimony and Bayesian analyses yielded identical phylogenetic trees, indicating a close phylogenetic affinity of the sampled taxa in genus Eremias. Monophyly of both Eremias and its viviparous group is recovered. The complete mitogenome sequence of E. stummeri provides fundamental data for resolving phylogeneitc and genetic problems related to Eremias viviparity.
Zhou, T. & Liu, J. & Guo, X. (2016) -
The complete mitochondrial genome was determined from a variegated racerunner, Eremias vermiculata, which was collected from north of Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang, China. The mitogenome sequence was 19,494 bp in size, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and a control region (D-loop), which is similar to the typical mtDNA of vertebrates. All the protein-coding genes in E. vermiculata were distributed on the H-strand, except the ND6 gene and eight tRNA genes, which were encoded on the L-strand. The mitogenome sequence herein will provide fundamental data for further investigating the phylogeographical pattern of E. vermiculata, along with testing the barrier effect of the Tianshan Mountains to gene flow. A preliminary phylogenetic inference has been implemented with five racerunner species and several other related lacertid species.
Zhou, T. & Wan, X. & Guo, X. (2016) -
The whole mitochondrial genome of a variegated racerunner (Eremias vermiculata) from the Taklamakan Desert was determined using polymerase chain reaction and directly sequenced with a primer walking method. The mitogenome sequence was 19 796 bp in size, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and a control region (D-loop), which is similar to the typical mtDNA of vertebrates. Mitochondrial genomes analyses using maximum parsimony and Bayesian analyses yielded identical phylogenetic trees, indicating a close phylogenetic affinity of the seven Eremias species. Monophyly of the genus Eremias and E. vermiculata was recovered. The mitogenome presented here will contribute to the examination of genetic differentiation for E. vermiculata and understanding of the mitochondrial DNA evolution in Eremias.
Zhou, Z.-S. & Li, H. & Tong, Q.-L. & Lin, L.-H. & Ji, X. (2016) -
We report the nearly complete mitochondrial genome of the rapid racerunner, Eremias velox (Lacertidae), which is a circular molecule of 18,033 bp in size and consists of 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNAs, 22 transfer RNAs and a partial control region (2627 bp). The A + T content of overall base composition of H-strand is 58.0% (T: 27.7%, C: 28.3%, A: 30.3%, G: 13.7%). Some short microsatellite-like repeat regions (polyA and polyT) are scattered in the control region. All the results provide powerful data for further study of the molecular systematics, species identification and conservation genetics in this species and its congenators.
Zhukov, I.G. (1941) -
Ziegler, T. (2002) -
Ziegler, T. (2004) -
This report deals with diversity research within the Vietnam project of the Cologne Zoo on his way towards a centre for nature conservation. Since more than five years the Cologne Zoo engages in a German-Vietnamese cooperation project concerning biodiversity research and conservation in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in central Vietnam. This karst forest area in the Quang Binh province, which meanwhile is declared by the UNESCO as world heritage site, comprises more than 85,000 ha and represents habitat and refuge of many threatened and in part still undiscovered species. My report comprises the current knowledge about the amphibians and reptiles of this area. The so-called herpetofauna appears, due to its limited tendency to spread, the relatively high habitat requirements, and the relatively simple recording (without using traps), as suitable bioindicator. In addition, herpetodiversity research is not only required in Vietnam because being a hot spot (i. e., endemism centre) of biodiversity, but also due to the fact, that we are only able to protect those species which are known so far. In this context, the special significance of newly discovered species as role models for a nature reserve (i. e., so-called flagship species) is stressed: As ambassadors of their relatives they do not only plead for the conservation status of an area, but also motivate the local people to engage in the conservation of their unique home; finally, newly discovered species help to be effective as publicity and to attract support by sponsors, too. Beside newly discovered mammal species some recent reptile discoveries from the National Park’s karst forest are highlighted: Among them is the Phong Nha-Ke Bang Bent-toed Gecko (Cyrtodactylus phongnhakebangensis) that was named after its type locality, as well as another, greyish gecko species (Gekko sp. n.), that will be described as new species soon. However, the area’s most spectacular herpetological discoveries were two horned pitvipers: One of them (Triceratolepidophis sieversorum) was originally discovered as preserved specimen in the rice wine collection of a local healer and revealed not only to be a new species but also to represent a new snake genus; the other horned pitviper (Protobothrops cornutus) has already been regarded by some scientists as being extinct and therefore could be rediscovered in Vietnam after more than half a century (which was at the same time the first record for the National Park’s herpetofauna). Thus, both geckonid as well as both horned pitviper discoveries represent prominent advocates of the habitat karst forest in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, with whom their existence is closely connected. After these examples, the remaining members of the herpetofauna are briefly introduced in words and pictures: Currently seven families of frogs (represented by almost 40 species), four families of turtles (more than ten species), five lizard families (more than 30 species) and six families of snakes (almost 50 species) are known. Because several problems concerning determination and taxonomy remain still unsolved and because new species are constantly discovered and described, it is difficult to name concrete species numbers. However, with respect to its herpetodiversity, the Phong Nha- Ke Bang National Park meanwhile surely belongs to Vietnam’s best researched nature reserves. Almost 20% of its amphibian and reptile species are listed in the Red Data List of Vietnam. In future, we will engage in proceeding our diversity studies in close cooperation with our Vietnamese partners to provide the National Park as well as the local authorities the knowledge and the required tools for a long-term conservation of the region’s unique biodiversity.
Ziegler, T. (2023) -
Ziegler, T. & Bischoff, W. (1999) -
Takydromus (Platyplacopus) kuehnei vietnamensis ssp. n., a new subspecies of grass lizard from Vietnam (Reptilia: Squamata: Lacertidae). Vietnamese Takydromus (Platyplacopus) kuehnei, recently recorded for the first time from this country, are described as a new subspecies. So far, the species was known only from China. The description is based on differences in colour pattern and scalation. In pholidosis T. (P.) kuehnei vietnamensis ssp. n. differs·from the Chinese nominal form mainly by usually having occipital and interparietal not in contact, the gulars reaching only the third pair of chinshields, the dorsal head shields stronger keeled, and, especially in females, distinctly enlarged scales on the lower flanks, as weil as higher numbers of supratemporals, supraciliary granules, and scales between tympanicum and supratemporals. Concerning colour pattern the males of the new subspecies are characterized by having only feebly marked, shorter, and more slender light lateral dorsal stripes, which are not distinctly framed medially by dark pattern; in the females the darker upper flanks are more distinctly set off against the lighter lower flanks. More material has to show whether the holotype of Platyplacopus kuehnei carinatus GRESS1TT, 1938 from Hainan, which shows an unusual pholidosis, is in fact synonymous with the nominal form. We demonstrate that some of the Vietnamese records of T. wolteri are based on misidentified T. kuehnei and also on T. sexlineatus, so that the occurrence of the otherwise strictly Palearctic T. wolteri in northern Vietnam must be seriously doubted. To prevent further confusion in view of some unclear identification keys available for Vietnam`s lizards. we proYide a short diagnosis of T. kuehnei and T. wolteri. Finally, the distributional and ecological data currently available for T. kuehnei are summa- rized.
Ziegler, T. & Böhme, W. & Bischoff, W. (1999) -
Ziegler, T. & Hoang, X.Q. & Böhme, W. (1998) -
Ziesmann, S. & Klaas, P. & Janzen, P. (2007) -
Zill, M. (2011) -
Report on an cryptic male Gallotia galloti eisentrauti that showed the typical coloration of a female when it lived together with another male in a terrarium. After this lizard was separated and kept in another terrarium it began to change its colours to the typical male coloration wihtin a period of three weeks.
Zill, M. (2021) -
I have always loved the beautiful Pamphylian green lizard, and in 2016 I had the opportunity to get a pair of these animals. Here, I would like to describe my experiences in keeping and breeding the Pamphylian green lizard.
Zimic, A. & Jelić, D. (2014) -
In this paper we present an attack of the centipede Scolopendra cingulata Latreille, 1829 on the Sharp-snouted Rock Lizard, Dalmatolacerta oxycephala (Duméril & Bibron,1839). Shortly after the attack, which presumably lead to the lizards’ death, the centipede pulled its prey intoa hiding place under the rock (Fig. 1). This observation was made on July 7, 2014, in Medvinjak on the island of Korčula (Croatia). It was recorded and reported by Ivan Željković. In this case it is assumed that the lizard seriously underestimated the strength of the centipede in any of the two possible options. The possibility of a direct attack on the lizard by the centipede is the most realistic considering the relationship between the sizes of these animals, but the possibility of the lizard’s attack on a centipede and the situation that prey becomes predator also cannot be rejected. Anyway, the lizard underestimated the power of the centipede as in this first case did not result in its escape (illusion of neutralism: lizard considers its relationship with centipede as neutral and does not run away) and the second wrong choice of a prey (paradoxical predation: prey becoming a predator). Third option that the centipede scavenged on the dead corpse was rejected because the lizard was still fresh (weakly movement of the tail and extremities was observed) and because centipedes are predominantly carnivorous (Lewis 2007, Sierwald & Bond 2007). Underestimation of the centipede as the prey was recently reported as failed ingestion of this species by a young sand viper (Arsovski et al.2014). However, in this case both reptile and centipede were found dead and it can be described as illusion of predation. Centipedes of the genus Scolopendra are known as dangerous and aggressive predators and as animals that are extremely difficult to predate on (eg. Dugon & Arthur 2012, Arsovski et al. 2014). It is known that lizards eat centipedes, but notto a great extent (e.g. Hódar 1996). Centipedes need constantly moisture because they lack the waxy cuticle of insects and arachnids (Barnes 1982), so that the encounters of these animals are probably rare. Predation on lizards (and other vertebrates) by arthropods is often noted (Bauer 1990, Schwammer & Baurecht 1988, Blondheim & Werner 1989, Armas 2000, Toledo 2005). Wrong choice of prey, in terms of trying to feed on potentially dangerous prey is also commonly reported (Willson & Hopkins 2011. Jablonski &Vlček 2012. Šukalo et al. 2013).
Zimic, A. & Merdan, S. & Sunje, E. (2015) -
Zootoca vivipara is a poorly investigated lizard species in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The species is often associated with mountain ecosystems in the Dinaric area. For the first time we present all records of this species in Bosnia and Herzegovina. By analysing data from literature, the herpetological collection (National Museum) and from field work, we conclude that this species mainly inhabits the northern and central parts of the country. The amount of data is still small, but it is believed that its distribution is underestimated. Therefore, the conservation status of Z. vivipara in Bosnia and Herzegovina should be considered as: Data Deficient (DD).
Zimmermann, E. (1975) -
Zimmermann, H. (1902) -
Zimmermann, H. (1984) -
Zimmermann, H. & Zimmermann, E. (1983) -
Zimmermann, K.D. (1981) -
Zimmermann, P. (1989) -
Zinenko, O.I. & Drabkin, P.L. & Rudyk, O.M. (2005) -
Zipperlen, A. (1885) -
Zitzmann, A. (2003) -
Zitzmann, A. (2004) -
Zitzmann, A. (2010) -
Zitzmann, A. (2011) -
Zitzmann, A. (2012) -
Zitzmann, A. (2014) -
Zitzmann, A. (2015) -
Zitzmann, A. & Malten, A. (2009) -
Im Rahmen der Umsetzung des FFH-Monitorings in Hessen zur Bewertung der Vorkommen und der Entwicklung des Erhaltungszustandes der Mauereidechse in Hessen und für das Bundesstichprobenverfahren zur Ermittlung des bundesweiten Trends der Art wurden 2009 erstmals in acht hessischen Vorkommensgebieten Transekte angelegt und bei vier Begehungen nach Mauereidechsen abgesucht. Die Auswahl der Stichprobeflächen mit den abgegrenzten Transekten und die Durchführung des Monitorings werden beschrieben. Es erfolgt eine Bewertung der untersuchten Transekte nach dem Bewertungsschema mit den Parametern zur Populationsgröße und -struktur, zur Habitatqualität und den Beeinträchtigungen. Diese Bewertungen werden in einer Übersichtstabelle dargestellt. Der Zustand der Population jedes einzelnen Transektes wird bewertet und, soweit möglich, werden Aussagen zum Trend und zu bisherigen Pflegemaßnahmen gemacht. Bei den Bewertungen mit Expertenvoten wird die Begründung separat dargestellt. In der Diskussion wird die Gefährdung der Art sowie die Praktikabilität der Kartiermethode und des Bewertungsschemas behandelt. Es wird empfohlen, für die weitere langfristige Durchführung des Monitorings eine detaillierte Kartierung der Mauereidechsen in den untersuchten Vorkommensgebieten über die Transekte hinaus durchzuführen. Dies ist notwendig, da die flächige Ausdehnung der Vorkommen unzureichend bekannt ist und deshalb kaum eine realistische Abschätzung der Populationsgrößen erfolgen kann. Auch sollte im Bereich der Transekte eine Biotoptypen- und Nutzungskartierung durchgeführt werden, denn nur durch eine entsprechend detaillierte Kartierung lassen sich Veränderungen in den Populationsgrößen nachvollziehbar erklären.
Zitzmann, A. & Malten, A. (2011) -
Zitzmann, A. & Malten, A. (2016) -
Zitzmann, A. & Malten, A. (2017) -
Zitzmann, A. & Malten, A. (2020) -
Zitzmann, A. & Malten, A. & Jünemann, M. (2015) -
Die Mauereidechse kommt in Hessen im Südwesten in den klimatisch begünstigten Bereichen vor. Es wird ein Überblick über die historische und aktuelle Verbreitung, sowie über die Lebensräume und die Gefährdung der in Hessen als gefährdet eingestuften Art gegeben. Der derzeitige Kenntnisstand zu den in Hessen existierenden Vorkommen ergibt sich aus dem im Iahr 2011 durchgeführten Monitoring. Im Rahmen dieser Untersuchung wurde auch gezielt nach bisher unbekannten oder unbestätigten Vorkommen gesucht. Das Ergebnis wird anhand einer Rasterverbreitungskarte auf der Basis von TK-25-Quadranten dargestellt. Aktuell sind in Hessen auf 32 Messtischblattvierteln Mauereidechsenvorkommen nachgewiesen; acht davon galten im Jahr „010 noch als unbesetzt. Altbekannte Mauereidechsenhabitate sind Weinbergmauern, felsige Hangbereiche und Straßenböschungen, Abraumhalden, ehemalige Schiefergruben und Burgmauern. In neuerer Zeit treten Populationen vermehrt im Bereich aufgelassener Gleisanlagen auf.
Znari, M. & El Mouden, E.H. & Benfaida, H. & Boumezzough, A. (2000) -
Spatial and trophic resource partitioning among seven sympatric insectivorous lizard species was investigated in arid area in the central Jbilet mountains (Western Morocco) during spring 1995. Two foraging guilds are apparent: a specialist sit-and-wait (Agama impalearis, Tarentola mauritanica et Saurodaclylus brosseti) and a generalist one (Eumeces algeriensis, Chalcides polylepis, Acanthodaclylus erythrurus and Mesalina simoni). The studied lizard species differentiate from each other in substrate use relatively to their respective adaptive morphological traits. A. impalearis and T. mauritanica occur mainly in rocky areas, E. algeriensis and M. simoni appear mostly on rocky and pebbly-bare ground substrates, A. erythrurus and C. polylepis are found on sandy-pebbly substrates while S. brosseti occurs in pebbly soils. By contrast, there were large overlaps in the taxonomic composition of their diets which are numerically dominated by Formicidae, Isoptera, Coleoptera and Araneidae with different proportions according to lizard species. However, important prey-size differences between species allowed to reduce trophic overlap. A selectivity analysis of lizard diet revealed patterns of prey selection based on criteria inherent either to predator (foraging behaviour, morphological constraints) or prey (size, abundance and activity). Results suggest that spatial and trophic segregation along with taxonomic divergence make possible the coexistence of these lizard species.
Žoltáková, H. (1976) -
Zontos, P. & Sagonas, K. & Lymberakis, P. & Poulakakis, N. (2016) -
The lizard family of Lacertidae is one of the most diverse and widespread families throughout Eurasia and Africa. The Greek rock lizard, Hellenolacerta graeca (Bedriaga, 1886) is the only species that belongs to the genus Hellenolacerta. The species is endemic to Peloponnisos (southern continental Greece). Due to its particular morphology, H. graeca was recently distinguished by taxonomists from the other species of the genus Lacerta. To date, there has been no systematic molecular research on this species. In this study, we examined the intraspecific phylogenetic relationships of H. graeca populations from Peloponnisos, using two mitochondrial (cytochrome b and 16S rRNA) and one nuclear (NKTR) gene fragments. We attempted to clarify the taxonomic status of this species and identify its geographical patterns, which might help in reconstructing the evolutionary history of H. graeca in southern Greece.
Zotos, S. & Adamopoulou, C. & Chondropoulos, B. & Kadis, C. & Hadjichambis, A. & Legakis, A. (2010) -
The growth rate of a population of the lacertid Acanthodactylus schreiberi schreiberi was studied during three consecutive years (2007-2009) in a dune ecosystem on Akrotiri Peninsula, Cyprus. This study adds valuable data on the limited existing information regarding the ecology and life history traits of Acanthodactylus schreiberi.
Zotos, S. & Adamopoulou, C. & Chondropoulos, B. & Kadis, C. & Hadjichambis, A.C. & Legakis, A. (2012) -
Four females of Schreiber’s Fringe-fingered Lizard, Acanthodactylus schreiberi schreiberi Boettger, 1878, from the Troodos Mountains in Cyprus were captured after mating in the field and moved into isolated terraria in the laboratory. Three of them laid two clutches and the fourth one laid four clutches without any further mating with males. The last oviposition was observed 90 days after capture in the field. This indicates that females of this species are capable of storing functional sperms for at least a period of three months. This ability may have played an important role in the distribution of the lizard into the inner island and the Troodos Mountains where it can be found in sparse populations.
Zotos, S. & Adamopoulou, C. & Chondropoulos, B. & Legakis, A. (2009) -
Zotos, S. & Adamopoulou, C. & Chondropoulos, V. & Kadis, C. & Legakis, A. (2013) -
Morphometric characteristics and colour patterns were studied during a three year period (spring 2007 - spring 2010), in a population of the lacertid lizard Acanthodactylus schreiberi schreiberi occupying a well preserved dune ecosystem on the island of Cyprus. Data were collected from 444 individuals (150 of them were recaptured from two to eight consecutive seasons) in the field and 46 juveniles hatched in the laboratory. Based on their maturity stage and age, the studied individuals were grouped into five different age classes (two classes for subadults and three for adults). Morphometric characteristics (snout-vent length, tail length, body mass, head dimensions, mouth opening) along with colouration of body parts (tail, neck, flanks) and colour patterns of the dorsal side were examined in all age classes. Sexual dimorphism was observed for all the morphometric characteristics of individuals belonging to each mature age class, along with correlations between the body length and the most of the body colour patterns. The presence of broken stripes on the back and yellow colour on the flanks of the body are positively correlated with the snout-vent length (SVL) of both male and female individuals (ANOVA: p<0,05) (stripes broke to spots and white flanks obtaining a yellow colour as SVL increase), while the colour pattern of the tail is positively correlated both with SVL and the period of the year (ANCOVA: p<0,05). Subadults have a reddish tail that alters to white during maturation in males and yellow in females, while the colour of the neck in females becomes yellow as their age advances. Individuals of the species bear a unique colour pattern on their back that can be seen as a combination of continued or broken light-coloured stripes with brown-red spots on a blackish background. Although these patterns clearly altered during maturation and in the subsequent age classes, they can easily be used for the individual’s identification (like a fingerprint) at any age. The results of this study are comparable with similar results from other related lacertids.
Body temperature and activity patterns of the lacertid lizard Acanthodactylus schreiberi schreiberi were studied during 2009 in a well preserved dune ecosystem on the island of Cyprus. Body temperatures, along with air and substrate temperatures were measured at the capture moment in the field using a cloacal thermometer. Activity patterns in the population under study were documented through monthly sampling. The information resulting from these measurements was linked to existing temperature data from selected microhabitat sites in the study area (substrate surface in bare sand, shaded area inside bush, air at 5cm above the substrate surface, borrow under bush). The mean annual body temperature of adult lizards was found to be 35.5°C (range=29.2–39.6; SD=2.48). No difference was observed between sexes but subadults had slightly lower mean body temperatures than adults. This is attributed to the smaller body size of subadults since body temperature was found to be positively correlated with snout-vent length of individuals. Body temperature is highly correlated with air temperature (5cm above substrate surface) on a yearly, monthly and daily basis. During summer, a high correlation between the hour of the day and body temperature was found during the first hours of the day (morning thermoregulation), while no correlation is obvious after 09:30. Our results on lizards’ activity show that individuals remain active during the whole year although they minimize their presence during the cold period of winter. During spring and autumn lizards can be observed throughout the day with a peak before midday, while in summer they avoid being active during the high temperature period of noon. Hourly temperatures from selected microhabitats in comparison with body temperatures during the same daily period can explain this behaviour. The results of this study are parallel with similar results from other related lacertid species.
Zotos, S. & Adamopoulou, C. & Legakis, A. (2008) -
The spatial organization of a population of the lacertid Acanthodactylus schreiberi was studied from March to November in a sand dune ecosystem on Akrotiri Peninsula, Cyprus. The mean home range for males during summer was 173.7 m2 while for females 103.52 m2. Male/female home range ratio was 1.68. During fall mean home range for males was significantly larger: 183.96 m2 versus 89.32 m2 for females. Male/female home range ratio for this season was 2.06. In summer each male overlapped with up to 6 females, while in fall with up to 3 females. During both seasons female home ranges overlapped extensively with male home ranges, up to 100% of their range. No significant correlation was found between male body size (SVL) and home range size, or between male home range size and the number of overlapping females. Our data so far seem to indicate a system where the lizard spatial organization is governed principally by habitat qualities, such as refuge and food availability as well as thermoregulation spots.
Zotos, S. & Carretero, M.A. (2016) -
The diet of a population of Acanthodactylus schreiberi in a sand dune ecosystem in Cyprus is analyzed based on 142 faecal pellets samples collected during 2009. Seasons (spring, summer, autumn) and classes (39 males, 59 females and 44 subadults) were compared and main morphometric characteristics (SVL, mass, mouth opening) were considered. Prey items were categorized into Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs), and size categories based on prey length to the nearest 1mm (1-19mm and >20mm). Four diet descriptors were used, abundance, richness, diversity and evenness. Studied population’s diet is highly dependent on Formicidae and Coleoptera, followed by Hemiptera and Hymenoptera while comparatively large amounts of plant matter were present mainly on adult individuals. Although large lizards tend to consume larger prey, they do not neglect small prey sizes. Variation in prey types across seasons and classes was limited and not translated into different diet descriptors. Only adults show slightly higher population diversity and males consumed some very large prey sporadically, likely due to stronger bite force. Based on our results the trophic niche of A. schreiberi is narrow and conservative regarding the environmental fluctuations. This pattern, involving active search of clumped prey, similar food spectrum between sexes and systematic consumption of plant matter, is common in other members of the genus and in insular species but contrasts with other Mediterranean lacertids.
Zotos, S. & Erotokritou, E. & Mandoulaki, A. & Sergides, L. & Xenophontos, M. & Stavrinides, M. & Vogiatzakis, I. (2016) -
The current work is part of AgroLIFE project that aims to implement sustainable agriculture practices and conservation actions in High Nature Value farmlands (HNVfs) of Cyprus. AgroLIFE is focused on two traditional crops, carob groves in Anogyra region and vineyards in Commandaria regions, where four fields from each crop type are subject to sustainable agriculture practices (diversified fields) and numerous rocky shelters were created on the margin areas. The overall aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of rocky shelters (stonewalls, rock piles and hibernacula) on reptile conservation and the increase of reptile biodiversity in agricultural areas. For achieving this we monitored once a month (from March to June 2016), 12 fields of each cultivation type (carob groves and vineyards). The fields were separated into groups of four depending on the cultivation practices applied (Conventional, Diversified, Abandoned). Three line transects were monitored in each field (two in the margins and one in the centre) and the number of lizard species present was recorded. Species diversity in each transect line was calculated using the Shannon-Weiner diversity index. One-way and two-way ANOVA was used to assess the impact of rocky shelter type (new, well preserved, medium preserved, absent), transect position within the field (margins, centre) and cultivation practice, on lizards diversity. Preliminary results indicate a highly dependency between species diversity and shelter quality independent of the cultivation type. Areas with newly constructed rocky shelters along with field margins present higher numbers of lacertid species (mainly Ophisops elegans and Phoenicolacera troodica) and higher diversity than areas with less preserved shelters such as the centre of the fields. Results also indicate that cultivation practice is less important for reptile conservation than the quality of shelters in the field’s margins.
Zou, S. (1983) -
Zuffi, M. (1986) -
Zuffi, M. (1987) -
Zuffi, M.A.L. & Allegranti, L. & Casu, V. & Giannelli, C. & Lanzoni, O. & Marino, S: & Messina, F. & Nardi, F.D. (2011) -
Zuffi, M.A.L. & Allegranti, L. & Casu, V. & Giannelli, C. & Lanzoni, O. & Marino, S: & Messina, F. & Nardi, F.D. (2012) -
Zuffi, M.A.L. & Casu, V. & Marino, S. (2012) -
The Italian wall lizard, Podarcis siculus, has a wide distribution. However, information on several aspects of its ecology and biology are scarce, and relate mainly to insular populations. This paper describes the main morphological features of 123 individuals along a geographical gradient (five localities) in northwestern Tuscany (central Italy). Our results show a strong sexual dimorphism in most of the considered parameters, high geographic variation, low interaction between sex and locality and a similar distribution of external parasite load and tail autotomy between the sexes.
Zuffi, M.A.L. & Coladonato, A.J. & Lombardo, G. & Torroni, A. & Boschetti, M. & Scali, S. & Mangiacotti, M. & Sacchi, R. (2022) -
We here report the unexpected presence of the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus campestris) on Gorgona Island, in the Parco Nazionale Arcipelago Toscano (Tuscan Archipelago, Tyrrhenian Sea, Tuscany, Central Italy). Field observations were carried out in 2020 confirming its presence on the island, where it had never been reported before. We recorded 37 GPS points of the species in three major areas of Gorgona (with 50 lizard records) and about 180 visual counts regarding all age classes (newborns, juveniles and adults). The species was found in the urban area (site of state prison) and in two grassy and bushed areas, around and along olive tree plantations. Seven individuals were captured and their tails were used to assess the sequence variation of the mitochondrial CYB gene. Biometrical parameters were also evaluated for six of these individuals. We detected three distinct CYB haplotypes that were compared to Podarcis siculus CYB sequences available in public databases. They resulted identical or phylogenetically closest to those found in mainland Tuscany. One haplotype, found in three specimens, was identical to one previously detected at Orti Bottagone (WWF Oasis in Piombino), while the other two haplotypes were most similar to haplotypes reported in the Giannella peninsula and Pisa, respectively.
Zuffi, M.A.L. & Gianelli, C. (2013) -
Trophic niche of the Italian wall lizard was studied at three different sites in Tuscany (central northern Italy), two along the Mediterranean sea, one inland. Fecal pellet analysis was carried out on 71 pellets (37 of male and 34 of female adult lizards), accounting on the whole for 184 prey items. Coleoptera, Hymenoptera (ants), Araneae and Gastropoda were the most represented taxa (numerical abundance of ca 22, 7, 7, 6% respectively). We found Brillouin diversity index similar in females and in males, with a marked overlap between sexes, but differences in niche overlapping among localities. Diet spectrum was quite different with that found in other central Italy localities, in the Tuscan Archipelago, or in areas where P. siculus has recently introduced. Our study confirms the opportunistic pattern and adaptability of this lizard species, and increases the range of sampled localities within the species’ range.
Zuffi, M.A.L. & Guarino, F.M. & Sacchi, R. & Mezzasalma, M. & Carretero, M.A. (2021) -
Zuffi, M.A.L. & Marinoi, S. & Allegranti, L. & Casu, V. (2009) -
Zuffi, M.A.L. & Messina, F. & Giannelli, C. & Lanzoni, O. & Nardi, F.D. (2013) -
The Italian Wall Lizard, Podarcis siculus, is widely distributed throughout most of Italy. These lizards are very variable morphologically, but they have been studied almost exclusively in habitats of the Western Adriatic coast (island and mainland populations of Croatia). It is still unknown if the morphological variation represents a genetic polymorphism or plasticity since the main phenotypic traits have not yet been studied in detail. We examined 114 wall lizards from one beach and one grassland area (5 km apart) on the northern Tyrrhenian coast of Italy to compare phenotypic traits between sexes and between areas. Body size related traits showed a marked sexual dimorphism, with males larger in all considered traits. For the first time in lizards, we estimated age from visual count of parietal scale LAGs: median age of males was three years and median age of females was two years. Large individuals of both sexes have green jaws, whereas smaller lizards have white or grey jaws. Femoral pores were more numerous in males than in females, and fluctuating asymmetry in this trait was evident and differed between sexes and areas. In males, the number of active pores (ratio of secreting pores/total hind limb pores) varied between areas (0.59 vs. 0.71), but not significantly. The number of active pores was positively related to head and body size in males, but was not related to age or to green jaws. Our results suggest that different areas may shape overall morphology in male and female lizards differently.
Zuffi, M.A.L. & Titone, V. & Mangiacotti, M. & Marsiglia, F. & Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. (2016) -
The ruin lizard, P. siculus, is naturally characterized by a marked colouration and a large morphological variability. It is rapidly able to adapt to different ecological features (allochromatism, herbivory, cecal valves, autotomy reduction) and therefore represents an excellent evolutionary model. Most of phenotypic colour variability refers to dorsum, mandibular and throat regions, often also to the ventral area. During the 2014 and 2015 reproductive seasons, we captured, measured and released 70 and 86 lizards respectively (first capture), adding previous records for an overall total of 421 individuals (2012-2015). Lizards were sampled in several parts of the Mediterranean northern Tuscany (North western Italy). For each lizard, we scored the relative amount of colour of the sub- ocular scale (0-100%) as colour pattern profile using Photoshop to extract and process the amount of coloured pixels. Maxillary and throat patterns were also recorded. Each lizard was individually recognized at dorsal pattern using I3Spattern software. We found white, green, yellow-green, orange-green, turquoise-green and white-green patterns. Presence of different colouration patterns (≥ 2% occurrence of more than one colouration/each sampled population) was constant throughout the considered areas. For instance, white maxilla was present in five out of six sites, common in two; green was present in six sites, common in two; yellow was present in six sites; yellow-green in three sites. Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) was marked and significant at a biometrical level, and SSD does exist also among some areas. Colouration patterns, however, were similar between sexes, size and age. Our preliminary results highlight a marked polychromatism in Podarcis siculus. In areas where the species is in contact with highly polymorphic species (e.g. P. melisellensis) lizards actually display full yellow and orange ventral colouration (Slovenia), while in other areas the pattern appears much less marked (as in our Tuscanian sample).
Zuffi, M.A.L. & Titone, V. & Nistri, A. & Adamopoulou, C. & Mangiacotti, M. & Sacchi, R. & Scali, S. (2021) -
The reproduction of Podarcis siculus has been studied in depth only in the `70ies, underlining all the developmental cycle of ovaries, follicles and of oocites throughout the whole seasonal cycle, clearly describing the ovulatory period. Even though P. siculus is an Italian widespread lizard, variability of its reproductive patterns, as number of clutches per season, clutch size (some anecdotal notes in the `80ies) as well as egg size, geographical and altitudinal variation in the Italian country is virtually not known. Our research has been aimed at presenting for the first time the largest available reproductive data set of P. siculus females, representative of the whole Italian distributive area and of some other localities. We have considered preserved specimens. We selected females of March-August, the known ovulation period. We analysed not only adult mature females (SVL ≥ 50 mm), but also many smaller (SVL ≥ 40 mm), and some others outside reproductive period, as outgroups. A female (RF) was considered as reproductive when at least one follicle was grey-yellow-brown in colour and larger than the other, usually whitish, undeveloped follicula. When ovary was evidently not developing, the specimen was coded as not reproductive (NRF). Eggs were of two main shapes, rounded or elongated. Rounded eggs are those developing (follicles in ovaries at the beginning of the ovulatory period and oocytes in ovaries at a late stage of vitellogenesis). Elongated eggs are oocytes in the ovarian ducts. We measured only those follicles and those oocytes that appeared not modified in size and shape. We took the diameter of rounded follicles and we took the maximum length of elongated oocytes. We discarded the maximum width of oocytes to limit any possible bias in size due to damage or other causes occurred during sampling or during fixation in alcohol. Elongated eggs were unshelled or partially shelled. No egg was completely shelled. Females did not differ in both SVL and trunk length (TRL) between continent and large islands, while RF were significantly longer than NRF, and RF and NRF were longer in large islands than in continent (reproductive status×area interaction). SVL significantly and positively increased from West to East (ρlongitude = 0.199, P < 0.0001, n = 645) and from North to South (ρlatitude = -0.327, P < 0.0001, n = 645). Clutch size averaged 4.4 ± 1.6 eggs (1-11). Both SVL and TRL positively correlated with clutch size (rSVL = 0.557, P < 0.0001, n = 619; rTRL = 0.559, P < 0.0001, n=619; Pearson correlation). Clutch size with rounded eggs was significantly different among geographical basins (Z = 22.317; d.f. = 3; P < 0.0001), while clutch size of elongated eggs did not vary among geographical basins (Z = 3.951; d.f. = 3; P = 0.267).
Zugmayer, E. (1909) -
Zuiderwijk, A. (1990) -
Zuiderwijk, A. (2002) -
Zuiderwijk, A. (2004) -
Zuiderwijk, A. (2006) -
Zuiderwijk, A. (2008) -
Zuiderwijk, A. & Groenveld, A. & Smit, G. (1999) -
The Dutch reptile-monitoring program started in 1993 in order to detect changes in populations of the seven reptile species present in The Netherlands. Six species are threate- ned and are on the national Red List. Reptiles are counted according to a standardised transect sampling method. A transect consists of a route of about 1750 meters, or an area of 2 - 2.5 hectare. It takes about two hours to visit a whole site, counting reptiles observed. Plots are visited seven times a year. Surveys are carried out by volunteers and employees of nature conservation societies. Results are checked for questionable data. Statistical analyses are conducted by Statistics Netherlands, using a loglinear Poisson regression TRIM. After five years of monitoring, conclusions can be drawn for Lacerta agilis, Lacerta vivipara, Podarcis muralis, atrix natrix, and Vipera berus. There seems to be a positive trend for Lacerta agilis popula- tions, and a negative one for Vipera berus. It is anticipated that information over an eight to ten years period is needed to ensure that trends observed are stable on the long term, and do not solely represent natural fluctuations. For Coronella austriaca and nguis fragilis it is not possible to produce coherent datasets.
Zuiderwijk, A. & Smit, G. & Kruyntjens, B. (1992) -
THE STATUS OF THE DUTCH LIZARDS IN THE EIGHTIES The distributions in the Netherlands of four indi- genous species of lizards during 1980-1990 has been mapped on S x S km grid squares. These spe- cies are Lacerta agilis, L. vivipara, Anguis fragilis and Podarcis muralis. Analysis of the distribution patterns occurs at two levels. First, main distribution areas that are inha- bited by a number oflocal populations are recog- nized for each of the species. It is suggested that such a `main distribution area` reflects a metapo- pulation, the proper function of which is conside- red essential for the future existence of lizard spe- cies in the Netherlands. Second, a description of each of the main areas was made in terms of inter- nal structure, i.e. the number and approx. size of the habitats of the local populations within the main area and the distances between these habitats. The latter variable is of special impor- tance since it describes the isolation within a meta- population. Sand lizards have three main areas ofdistribution in the Netherlands. These are separated from each other and from other European populations. On- ly one of those main areas is strong. It is located on the Veluwe, a large area comprising many local habitats in which the isolation-parameter is low. The coastal dunes main area has many fragmen- ted habitats between which barriers (to migrating sand lizards) exist. The Utrechtse Heuvelrug, the thirdmainarea,consistsofadozenorsosmallha- bitats scattered around a relatively large area. The status of the sand lizard in the Netherlands is critical. The species is listed as seriously endanger- ed since 1986. Since then there has been no impro- vement, but the process of decline continues. Restoration of sand lizard habitats in the dunes is recommended. For the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, the creation of a connective zone with the Veluwe is essential. The potential of railway- and highway- verges as connective zones and habitats is all too often neglected. The viviparous lizard is not rare in the Nether- lands, although it is more frequently encountered than the other native lizard species. Viviparous li- zards have five main areas of distribution, one on the Veluwe and Utrechtse Heuvelrug in the middle of the country, one in the northern provinces, and three in the southern provinces. The Veluwe is the best (main) area. Two main areas in the south are connected to habitats in Germany and Belgium. The other main area in the south consists of a lar- ge number of small and isolated habitats. The viviparous lizard is endangered. No notewor- thychangesinthedistributionofthespeciesinthe Netherlands have been recorded since 1986. It is recommended that connective zones be created between habitats both in the northern and the southern main areas as well as restoring a connec- tive zone between the Veluwe and the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. Slow worms have three main areas of distribution in the Netherlands. As is the case for the other species of lizards, the Veluwe is the best one. The one in the south is important because of its connecti- ons with populations in Belgium and Germany. Slow worms lead a hidden life, and distribution data always have been relatively rare, which ma- kes it difficult to interpret the species` status. We believe the slow worm is seriously endangered. Development of a connective zone between habi- tats of the Veluwe and the Utrechtse Heuvelrug is essential, as is the case for the other species. Fur- thermore, reconstruction of connective zones be- tween isolated habitats within the Utrechtse Heu- velrug and within the northern main area is cru- cial to maintain stable populations. The wall lizard has been restricted to a few locati- ons in the southernmost part ofthe country, as far as can be traced back. The species is present in two small and isolated habitats that are remnants of historical fortifications close to the centre of the city of Maastricht. The Dutch population of wall lizards is extremely vulnerable. The population has decreased since 1986 and its status remains very seriously endangered. To preserve this spe- ciesintheNetherlands,themaintenanceofitsha- bitat is the most critical activity. The major problem for maintaining stable lizard communities in the Netherlands is the loss of ha- bitats. Remaining habitats are becoming more and more isolated, and to counter this the re- construction of an ecological infrastructure within the main areas of distribution is essential for the future survival of Dutch lizard communi- ties. Altogether, the Veluwe area offers the best opportunities. In a previous study, the same con- clusion was reached for the three native species of snakes. This region is a major centre of reptile dis- tribution because of the large uninterrupted areas of woodland and heather. However, local reptile populationsfaceproblemsduetotheeverincrea- sing proliferation of highways and other roads, and the degeneration of beatblands. The Dutch governement recently published aNa- ture Policy Plan to improve the national ecological network. Our studystrongly supports the pro- posed activities in this Nature Policy Plan, as they will be beneficial for our native reptile populations.
Zvonar, S. (2022) -
Aggression as a form of competitive behavior is a common occurrence that greatly affects the relationship between individuals, populations and/or species. It has also been noted in the relationship between the species Podarcis sicula (coastal lizard) and Podarcis melisellensis (karst lizard) along the Adriatic coast, where more aggressive P. sicula actively suppresses P. melisellensis reducing its living area. It is known that aggression occurs as a result of the action of certain neurotransmitters in the brain - dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. The aim of this study was to analyze the expression of MAO (monoamine oxidase) and COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase) genes that degrade dopamine therefore affecting dopamine levels in the brain of individuals of species P. sicula and P. melisellensis. Field sampling of individuals at three locations (Pag, Sinj, Knin) was performed, their sacrifice and storage of brain tissue from which RNA was isolated, species specific primers designed and reverse transcription (RT-PCR) and quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) performed. No difference in the relative expression of MAO and COMT genes was found between the studied species.
Zwart, P. (1985) -
SOME OFfEN ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT KEEPING LIZARDS In a correspondence some questions are answered about hibernation of Lacerta viridis, food value of insects and the use o f vitamins. There is no need for L. viridis to hibanate. It is possible to let them hibernate in a refrigerator but difficult to maintain the correct humidity. There is a risk that the animals are weakened. The nutritional value is for all insects nearly the same. Insects have an unfavourable Ca/P ratio of I:3 to 1:14. Therefore extra feeding o f calcium is needed. Vitamin preparations for humans are not always suitable for reptiles. Animals for instance use vitamin 03 insteadof02.
Zwartjens, T. (2012) -
Zwinenberg, A.J. (1974) -
Zykova, L.Y. & Panov, E.N. (2011) -
The unusual mode of space utilization by two parthenogenetic lizard species under conditions of their symbiotopy is described. There are neither constant individual rages nor even any individual distances maintained by individuals. Regular daily movements between roosting and feeding stations take place.